bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of COVID-19 Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions and the Implications for Human Rights
Authors: Hong Seung-Hun , Hwang Ha , Park Min-Hye
Published: December 2020

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many governments swiftly decided to order nationwide lockdowns based on limited evidence that such extreme measures were effective in containing the epidemic. A growing concern is that governments were given little time to adopt effective and proportional interventions protecting citizens’ lives while observing their freedom and rights. This paper examines the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in containing COVID-19, by conducting a linear regression over 108 countries, and the implication for human rights. The regression results are supported by evidence that shows the change in 10 selected countries’ responding strategies and their effects as the confirmed cases increase. We found that school closures are effective in containing COVID-19 only when they are implemented along with complete contact tracing. Our findings imply that to contain COVID-19 effectively and minimize the risk of human rights abuses, governments should consider implementing prudently designed full contact tracing and school closure policies, among others. Minimizing the risk of human rights abuses should be a principle even when full contact tracing is implemented.
The Influence of Family Caregivers’ Experience of Interprofessional Care on Their Participation in Health Checkups as Preventive Health Behavior in Japan—A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Nakayama Gen , Masumoto Shoichi , Haruta Junji , Maeno Tetsuhiro
Published: December 2020

Background: The role of family caregivers has been vital, especially in superaging societies like Japan’s. The caregivers’ experience of interprofessional care is a key aspect in their evaluation of the quality of integrated care. We sought to explore whether family caregivers’ experience of interprofessional care is associated with their own participation in health checkups as preventive health behaviors. Methods: We used cross-sectional data obtained during the development of the Japanese version of the Caregivers’ Experience Instrument (J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS). Participants who had provided care for at least one year were surveyed (n = 251). We assessed family caregivers’ experience of interprofessional care using J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS and their participation in health checkups. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS total score was significantly associated with the caregivers’ participation in health checkups [odds ratio per 1-point increase = 1.05; 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.09]. Two domain scores (attention for the patient and attention for the caregiver) of J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS were significantly associated with the outcome. Conclusions: Family caregivers with more positive experiences of interprofessional care were more likely to participate in health checkups. These results support the significance of family caregivers’ experience of care, which may promote preventive health behaviors.
Grill Workers Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Levels and Excretion Profiles of the Urinary Biomarkers
Authors: Oliveira Marta , Capelas Sílvia , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Morais Simone
Published: December 2020

Grilling activities release large amounts of hazardous pollutants, but information on restaurant grill workers’ exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is almost inexistent. This study assessed the impact of grilling emissions on total workers’ exposure to PAHs by evaluating the concentrations of six urinary biomarkers of exposure (OHPAHs): naphthalene, acenaphthene, fluorene, phenanthrene, pyrene, and benzo(a)pyrene. Individual levels and excretion profiles of urinary OHPAHs were determined during working and nonworking periods. Urinary OHPAHs were quantified by high-performance liquid-chromatography with fluorescence detection. Levels of total OHPAHs (∑OHPAHs) were significantly increased (about nine times; p ≤ 0.001) during working comparatively with nonworking days. Urinary 1-hydroxynaphthalene + 1-hydroxyacenapthene and 2-hydroxyfluorene presented the highest increments (ca. 23- and 6-fold increase, respectively), followed by 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (ca. 2.3 times) and 1-hydroxypyrene (ca. 1.8 times). Additionally, 1-hydroxypyrene levels were higher than the benchmark, 0.5 µmol/mol creatinine, in 5% of exposed workers. Moreover, 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene, biomarker of exposure to carcinogenic PAHs, was detected in 13% of exposed workers. Individual excretion profiles showed a cumulative increase in ∑OHPAHs during consecutive working days. A principal component analysis model partially discriminated workers’ exposure during working and nonworking periods showing the impact of grilling activities. Urinary OHPAHs were increased in grill workers during working days.
Incidence of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Epidemic and Associated Predictors in Nevada: A Statewide Audit, 2016–2018
Authors: Batra Kavita , Cruz Patricia , Cross Chad L. , Bhandari Neeraj , Abdulla Farooq , Pharr Jennifer R. , Buttner Mark P.
Published: December 2020

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a postnatal withdrawal syndrome among neonates born to mothers with drug dependence disorders. NAS poses a significant public health challenge nationally, with a six-fold increase in incidence (1.2 to 6.7 per 1000 hospital births/year) from 2000–2016. Besides national data, it is critical to quantify NAS at the state-level to identify target areas for prevention. The objectives of this study were to ascertain statewide burden, including county and regional distribution of NAS in Nevada during 2016–2018, and to investigate potential factors associated with NAS. This study utilized hospital administrative data, and a total of 100,845 inpatient pediatric discharges were examined to identify NAS cases. Statistical analyses included estimation of crude incidence rates per 1000 hospital births and multilevel logistic regression modeling. NAS incidence in Nevada decreased slightly from 8.6 to 7.7 per 1000 hospital births between 2016 and 2018, but the overall incidence of 8 was substantially higher than earlier estimates (4.8/1000 hospital births) reported for 2013. Incidence was disproportionately higher among white newborns (12, 95% CI 11.0,13.0) and Medicaid enrollees (13.2, 95% CI 11.0,15.0). Southern Nevada had the highest incidence rate of 8.2 per 1000 hospital births. Nearly 75% of NAS cases were residents of Clark County. Incidence rates of NAS parallel the growing opioid prescription rates in Nevada and highlight the need for adopting opioid control prescribing practices to combat this drug epidemic. These findings might help in designing and evaluating state- and system-level interventions introduced to combat the opioid epidemic.
Oral Health Attitudes among Preclinical and Clinical Dental Students: A Pilot Study and Self-Assessment in an Egyptian State-Funded University
Authors: Mekhemar Mohamed , Ebeid Kamal , Attia Sameh , Dörfer Christof , Conrad Jonas
Published: December 2020

Dentists should present to patients as good role models in their oral health behaviour. Previous studies have demonstrated how education can improve dental students’ oral health. This pilot investigation aimed to compare and evaluate the features of the oral health behaviour and attitudes of preclinical and clinical dental students at Ain Shams University, a public Egyptian university. The Hiroshima University-Dental Behaviour Inventory (HU-DBI) survey was provided to 149 (78 female/71 male) dental students. Dichotomised (agree/disagree) answers to 20 HU-DBI items were possible, with a maximum conceivable score of 19. An estimation of oral health behaviour and attitudes was calculated by the sum of correct oral health answers to every item by the study groups and evaluated statistically. The score of oral health-favouring answers was higher in clinical (11.50) than preclinical students (10.63) and was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Single-item evaluations showed no statistical significance, except in one survey item. This survey exhibited weak differences in the improvement of oral hygiene behaviour and attitudes between participating preclinical and clinical students, as well as overall poor oral health behaviour in both groups. This inadequacy of Egyptian public dental education in terms of sufficient student oral health progress emphasises the necessity for supplementary courses and curricular reviews that accentuate the need for future dentists to display the correct oral health behaviour.
Gene Therapy for Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis: Current Progress and Future Prospects
Authors: Bosma Piter J. , Wits Marius , Oude-Elferink Ronald P. J.
Published: December 2020

Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC) are inherited severe liver disorders presenting early in life, with high serum bile salt and bilirubin levels. Six types have been reported, two of these are caused by deficiency of an ABC transporter; ABCB11 (bile salt export pump) in type 2; ABCB4 (phosphatidylcholine floppase) in type 3. In addition, ABCB11 function is affected in 3 other types of PFIC. A lack of effective treatment makes a liver transplantation necessary in most patients. In view of long-term adverse effects, for instance due to life-long immune suppression needed to prevent organ rejection, gene therapy could be a preferable approach, as supported by proof of concept in animal models for PFIC3. This review discusses the feasibility of gene therapy as an alternative for liver transplantation for all forms of PFIC based on their pathological mechanism. Conclusion: Using presently available gene therapy vectors, major hurdles need to be overcome to make gene therapy for all types of PFIC a reality.
The Interactions of Nintedanib and Oral Anticoagulants—Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Implications
Authors: Grześk Grzegorz , Woźniak-Wiśniewska Anita , Błażejewski Jan , Górny Bartosz , Wołowiec Łukasz , Rogowicz Daniel , Nowaczyk Alicja
Published: December 2020

Nintedanib is a synthetic orally active tyrosine kinase inhibitor, whose main action is to inhibit the receptors of the platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor families. The drug also affects other kinases, including Src, Flt-3, LCK, LYN. Nintedanib is used in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases and lung cancer. The mechanism of action suggests that nintedanib should be considered one of the potential agents for inhibiting and revising the fibrosis process related to COVID-19 infections. Due to the known induction of coagulation pathways during COVID-19 infections, possible interaction between nintedanib and anticoagulant seems to be an extremely important issue. In theory, nintedanib could increase the bleeding risk, thrombosis and lead to thrombocytopenia. The data from clinical trials on the concomitant use of nintedanib and antithrombotic agents is very limited as this patient group was within the standard exclusion criteria. Nintedanib is an important therapeutic option, despite its interaction with anticoagulants. If anticoagulant therapy is necessary, the more effective and safer option is the concomitant administration of DOACs and nintedanib, especially when drug-monitored therapy will be used in patients at high risk of bleeding complications.
Liver-Resident Memory CD8+ T Cells: Possible Roles in Chronic HBV Infection
Authors: Han Ji Won , Shin Eui-Cheol
Published: December 2020

Achieving a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection or complete elimination of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) has been challenging in the treatment of patients with chronic HBV infection. Although novel antivirals are being investigated, improving HBV-specific adaptive immune responses is also important for durable viral clearance. Tissue-resident memory CD8+ T (TRM) cells were recently reported as a T-cell population that resides in peripheral tissues and does not recirculate. TRM cells have been studied in the livers of mice and humans. Liver TRM cells have distinct characteristics compared to T cells in peripheral blood or other tissues, which may be associated with the unique microenvironment of the liver. In this review, we describe the characteristics of liver TRM cells and their implications in chronic HBV infection. We emphasize that liver TRM cells can be an immunotherapeutic target for the treatment of chronic HBV infection.
Whole-Transcriptome RNA Sequencing Reveals the Global Molecular Responses and CeRNA Regulatory Network of mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs and circRNAs in Response to Salt Stress in Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris)
Authors: Li Junliang , Cui Jie , Dai Cuihong , Liu Tianjiao , Cheng Dayou , Luo Chengfei
Published: December 2020

Sugar beet is an important sugar-yielding crop with some tolerance to salt, but the mechanistic basis of this tolerance is not known. In the present study, we have used whole-transcriptome RNA-seq and degradome sequencing in response to salt stress to uncover differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in both leaves and roots. A competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed with the predicted DE pairs, which revealed regulatory roles under salt stress. A functional analysis suggests that ceRNAs are implicated in copper redistribution, plasma membrane permeability, glycometabolism and energy metabolism, NAC transcription factor and the phosphoinositol signaling system. Overall, we conducted for the first time a full transcriptomic analysis of sugar beet under salt stress that involves a potential ceRNA network, thus providing a basis to study the potential functions of lncRNAs/circRNAs.
Nephrotoxic Potential of Putative 3,5-Dichloroaniline (3,5-DCA) Metabolites and Biotransformation of 3,5-DCA in Isolated Kidney Cells from Fischer 344 Rats
Authors: Rankin Gary O. , Racine Christopher R. , Valentovic Monica A. , Anestis Dianne K.
Published: December 2020

The current study was designed to explore the in vitro nephrotoxic potential of four 3,5-dichloroaniline (3,5-DCA) metabolites (3,5-dichloroacetanilide, 3,5-DCAA; 3,5-dichlorophenylhydroxylamine, 3,5-DCPHA; 2-amino-4,6-dichlorophenol, 2-A-4,6-DCP; 3,5-dichloronitrobenzene, 3,5-DCNB) and to determine the renal metabolism of 3,5-DCA in vitro. In cytotoxicity testing, isolated kidney cells (IKC) from male Fischer 344 rats (~4 million/mL, 3 mL) were exposed to a metabolite (0–1.5 mM; up to 90 min) or vehicle. Of these metabolites, 3,5-DCPHA was the most potent nephrotoxicant, with 3,5-DCNB intermediate in nephrotoxic potential. 2-A-4,6-DCP and 3,5-DCAA were not cytotoxic. In separate experiments, 3,5-DCNB cytotoxicity was reduced by pretreating IKC with antioxidants and cytochrome P450, flavin monooxygenase and peroxidase inhibitors, while 3,5-DCPHA cytotoxicity was attenuated by two nucleophilic antioxidants (glutathione and N-acetyl-L-cysteine). Incubation of IKC with 3,5-DCA (0.5–1.0 mM, 90 min) produced only 3,5-DCAA and 3,5-DCNB as detectable metabolites. These data suggest that 3,5-DCNB and 3,5-DCPHA are potential nephrotoxic metabolites and may contribute to 3,5-DCA induced nephrotoxicity in vivo. In addition, the kidney can bioactivate 3,5-DCNB to toxic metabolites, and 3,5-DCPHA appears to generate reactive metabolites to contribute to 3,5-DCA nephrotoxicity. In vitro, N-oxidation of 3,5-DCA appears to be the primary mechanism of bioactivation of 3,5-DCA to nephrotoxic metabolites.
Tonabersat Inhibits Connexin43 Hemichannel Opening and Inflammasome Activation in an In Vitro Retinal Epithelial Cell Model of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Lyon Heather , Shome Avik , Rupenthal Ilva D. , Green Colin R. , Mugisho Odunayo O.
Published: December 2020

This study was undertaken to evaluate the connexin hemichannel blocker tonabersat for the inhibition of inflammasome activation and use as a potential treatment for diabetic retinopathy. Human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) were stimulated with hyperglycemia and the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα in order to mimic diabetic retinopathy molecular signs in vitro. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the effect of tonabersat treatment on NLRP3, NLRP1, and cleaved caspase-1 expression and distribution. A Luminex cytokine release assay was performed to determine whether tonabersat affected proinflammatory cytokine release. NLRP1 was not activated in ARPE-19 cells, and IL-18 was not produced under disease conditions. However, NLRP3 and cleaved caspase-1 complex formation increased with hyperglycemia and cytokine challenge but was inhibited by tonabersat treatment. It also prevented the release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, VEGF, and IL-6. Tonabersat therefore has the potential to reduce inflammasome-mediated inflammation in diabetic retinopathy.
Fire Protective Surface Coating Containing Nanoparticles for Marine Composite Laminates
Authors: Floch Léa , Da Cruz Chiochetta Bianca , Ferry Laurent , Perrin Didier , Ienny Patrick
Published: December 2020

A poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based coating containing ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and sepiolite nanofillers (SP) and supported by a glass fabric was developed to fire-protect a glass-fiber-reinforced unsaturated-polyester-based (UP) polymer (GFRP). The fire behavior and thermal stability of the PVA coatings were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and a cone calorimeter. The coatings’ residues were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results from the cone calorimeter showed that the addition of sepiolite significantly improves the flame retardancy of PVA/APP/SP coatings. The addition of both additives promoted the formation of a cohesive layer composed of a silico-phosphate structure resulting from the reactivity between APP and SP. The fire resistance of the composite laminate protected by PVA coatings was evaluated using a cone calorimeter by measuring the temperature of the back face. Photogrammetry was used to assess the swelling of residues after heat exposure. The interaction between APP and SP in PVA coating leads to the formation of an effective thermal barrier layer. The presence of SP reduces the layer expansion but greatly decreases the backside temperature during the initial period of exposure. The effect was assigned to high thermal stability of the layer and its ability to dissipate heat by re-radiation.
Effectors with Different Gears: Divergence of Ustilago maydis Effector Genes Is Associated with Their Temporal Expression Pattern during Plant Infection
Authors: Depotter Jasper R. L. , Zuo Weiliang , Hansen Maike , Zhang Boqi , Xu Mingliang , Doehlemann Gunther
Published: December 2020

Plant pathogens secrete a variety of effector proteins that enable host colonization but are also typical pathogen detection targets for the host immune system. Consequently, effector genes encounter high selection pressures, which typically makes them fast evolving. The corn smut pathogen Ustilago maydis has an effector gene repertoire with a dynamic expression across the different disease stages. We determined the amino acid divergence of U. maydis effector candidates with Sporisorium reilianum orthologs, a close relative of U. maydis. Intriguingly, there are two distinct groups of effector candidates, ones with a respective conserved and diverged protein evolution. Conservatively evolving effector genes especially have their peak expression during the (pre-)penetration stages of the disease cycle. In contrast, expression of divergently evolving effector genes generally peaks during fungal proliferation within the host. To test if this interspecific effector diversity corresponds to intraspecific diversity, we sampled and sequenced a diverse collection of U. maydis strains from the most important maize breeding and production regions in China. Effector candidates with a diverged interspecific evolution had more intraspecific amino acid variation than candidates with a conserved evolution. In conclusion, we highlight diversity in evolution within the U. maydis effector repertoire with dynamically and conservatively evolving members.
The Spatial Pattern of the Absorption of Cohesion Policy Funds in Polish Rural Areas
Authors: Komorowski Łukasz , Mróz Agata , Stanny Monika
Published: December 2020

This paper determines the extent to which rural areas in Poland have been beneficiaries of the EU’s Cohesion Policy (CP). The amount of funds allocated to rural areas at the local (gmina/commune) level as part of the total CP obtained by Poland from 2007 to 2018 was estimated. The spatial distribution of that allocation was then determined. Whether the level of absorption is linked to the separately computed rural development level in communes was examined. This then made it possible not just to determine the spatial pattern of the absorption of CP funds but also to identify the main social and economic correlates of their high levels of absorption. It was found that nearly 40% of CP funds for Poland were allocated to rural areas, inhabited by 40% of the country’s population. However, this seemingly balanced allocation was somewhat undermined by its spatial distribution: the highest absorption was reported in over a third of communes with a high level of development while it was also found in less than a fifth of communes with a low level of development. Communes with higher levels of absorption have a more favourable local budget situation and a high degree of deagrarianisation of their local economies. The absorption level is more highly correlated with the variables characterising the extent to which an agricultural area has turned into a multifunctional area than with a commune’s absorptive capacity.
High Temperature Tribology under Linear Oscillation Motion
Authors: Shah Raj , Chen Rui , Woydt Mathias , Baumann Christoph , Jurs Joshua , Iaccarino Philip
Published: December 2020

High temperature tribology is considered to begin from a minimum temperature of 300–350 °C, where organic base oils and polymers begin to decompose, until a temperature of 1000 °C. In this field of tribology, tests are typically run under dry or solid-state friction, unless a solid lubricant is used, since most lubricants will oxidize or break down when exposed to these extreme temperatures. Therefore, this form of tribotesting is useful to determine the friction, wear, and other tribological characteristics of coatings, ceramics, alloys, cermets, and similar materials. Additionally, high temperature tribology is important to further understand the frictional interactions and adhesive behavior of contacts that operate at these high temperatures. When considering measurements of the tribological parameters in a high temperature application, the standard Schwingung, Reibung, Verschleiž (SRV) (Oscillating, friction, wear, in English) reciprocating, linear-oscillatory tribometer can be modified for testing temperatures of up to 1000 °C by using a high temperature heating block. With this configuration, the instrument can accurately monitor many parameters of the tribosystem, such as coefficient of friction, electrical resistance, zero stroke point, sliding speed, and others. As a result, the SRV instrument is shown to be a powerful tool for high temperature tribotesting. This paper will provide an overview of this high temperature tribology test rig and will discuss its versatility and efficacy, and will show how it can effectively be implemented in both research and practical applications for the development of various coatings and other high temperature tribological contacts.
Thermodynamic Properties, Viscosity, and Structure of CaO–SiO2–MgO–Al2O3–TiO2–Based Slag
Authors: Fang Jinle , Pang Zhuogang , Xing Xiangdong , Xu Runsheng
Published: December 2020

The effect of TiO2 and the MgO/Al2O3 ratio on the viscosity, heat capacity, and enthalpy change of CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–MgO–TiO2 slag at constant heat input was studied. The variation of slag structure was analyzed by the calculation of activation energy and FTIR spectrum measurements. The results showed that the heat capacity and enthalpy change of the slag decreased with the increase of TiO2 content. Under constant heat supply, the fluctuations in slag temperature were relatively apparent, and the temperature of slag increased as the TiO2 content increased. The viscosity of slag decreased due to the increase in slag temperature. Increasing the MgO/Al2O3 ratio could decrease the temperature and viscosity of slag. The effect of increasing the MgO/Al2O3 ratio on the viscosity was more pronounced than the decreasing temperature caused by increasing the MgO/Al2O3 ratio. The apparent activation energy decreased with increasing TiO2 content and MgO/Al2O3 ratio. The Ti–O bonds formed with TiO2 addition, and the Ti–O bonds were weaker than Si–O bonds, which resulted in the decrease in heat capacity and viscosity of slag.
Immobilization of Dextranase on Nano-Hydroxyapatite as a Recyclable Catalyst
Authors: Ding Yanshuai , Zhang Hao , Wang Xuelian , Zu Hangtian , Wang Cang , Dong Dongxue , Lyu Mingsheng , Wang Shujun
Published: December 2020

The immobilization technology provides a potential pathway for enzyme recycling. Here, we evaluated the potential of using dextranase immobilized onto hydroxyapatite nanoparticles as a promising inorganic material. The optimal immobilization temperature, reaction time, and pH were determined to be 25 °C, 120 min, and pH 5, respectively. Dextranase could be loaded at 359.7 U/g. The immobilized dextranase was characterized by field emission gun-scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The hydrolysis capacity of the immobilized enzyme was maintained at 71% at the 30th time of use. According to the constant temperature acceleration experiment, it was estimated that the immobilized dextranase could be stored for 99 days at 20 °C, indicating that the immobilized enzyme had good storage properties. Sodium chloride and sodium acetic did not desorb the immobilized dextranase. In contrast, dextranase was desorbed by sodium fluoride and sodium citrate. The hydrolysates were 79% oligosaccharides. The immobilized dextranase could significantly and thoroughly remove the dental plaque biofilm. Thus, immobilized dextranase has broad potential application in diverse fields in the future.
Strategic Investment in an International Infrastructure Capital: Nonlinear Equilibrium Paths in a Dynamic Game between Two Symmetric Countries
Authors: Yanase Akihiko , Long Ngo Van
Published: December 2020

This paper develops a two-country model of intra-industry trade with trade costs that can be reduced by public investment in an international infrastructure capital, the stock of which accumulates over time. Depending on the trade costs and international distribution of manufacturing firms, equilibrium patterns of trade are determined, and national welfare in each country is affected by these trade patterns. Taking into account the relationship between trade costs and national welfare, the governments carry out a dynamic game of public investment. We show that the dynamic equilibrium of the policy game may exhibit history dependency; if the initial stock of international infrastructure is smaller (larger) than a threshold level, the infrastructure stock decreases (increases) over time, and the world economy will end up in autarky (two way free trade) in the long run. We also show that international cooperation is beneficial in the sense that it may enable the world economy to escape from a “low development trap”.
A New Smoothness Indicator of Adaptive Order Weighted Essentially Non-Oscillatory Scheme for Hyperbolic Conservation Laws
Authors: Musa Omer , Huang Guoping , Wang Mingsheng
Published: December 2020

Adaptive order weighted essentially non-oscillatory scheme (WENO-AO(5,3)) has increased the computational cost and complexity of the classic fifth-order WENO scheme by introducing a complicated smoothness indicator for fifth-order linear reconstruction. This smoothness indicator is based on convex combination of three third-order linear reconstructions and fifth-order linear reconstruction. Therefore, this paper proposes a new simple smoothness indicator for fifth-order linear reconstruction. The devised smoothness indicator linearly combines the existing smoothness indicators of third-order linear reconstructions, which reduces the complexity of that of WENO-AO(5,3) scheme. Then WENO-AO(5,3) scheme is modified to WENO-O scheme with new and simple formulation. Numerical experiments in 1-D and 2-D were run to demonstrate the accuracy and efficacy of the proposed scheme in which WENO-O scheme was compared with original WENO-AO(5,3) scheme along with WENO-AO-N, WENO-Z, and WENO-JS schemes. The results reveal that the proposed WENO-O scheme is not only comparable to the original scheme in terms of accuracy and efficacy but also decreases its computational cost and complexity.
Effectiveness of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy, Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy for Treatment of Renal Stones: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Chan , Chung Doo , Rha Koon , Lee Joo , Lee Seon
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives: To perform a updated systematic review and meta-analysis comparing effectiveness of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for treatment of renal stones (RS). Materials and Methods: A total of 37 studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis about effectiveness to treat RS. Endpoints were stone-free rates (SFR), incidence of auxiliary procedure, retreatment, and complications. We also conducted a sub-analysis of ≥2 cm stones. Results: First, PCNL had the highest SFR than others regardless of stone sizes and RIRS showed a higher SFR than ESWL in <2 cm stones. Second, auxiliary procedures were higher in ESWL than others, and it did not differ between PCNL and RIRS. Finally, in <2 cm stones, the retreatment rate of ESWL was higher than others. RIRS required significantly more retreatment procedures than PCNL in ≥2 cm stones. Complication was higher in PCNL than others, but there was no statistically significant difference in complications between RIRS and PCNL in ≥2 cm stones. For ≥2 cm stones, PCNL had the highest SFR, and auxiliary procedures and retreatment rates were significantly lower than others. Conclusions: We suggest that PCNL is a safe and effective treatment, especially for large RS.
Microfluidic Device with an Integrated Freeze-Dried Cell-Free Protein Synthesis System for Small-Volume Biosensing
Authors: Tonooka Taishi
Published: December 2020

Microfluidic devices enable the precise operation of liquid samples in small volumes. This motivates why microfluidic devices have been applied to point-of-care (PoC) liquid biopsy. Among PoC liquid biopsy studies, some report diagnostic reagents being freeze-dried in such microfluidic devices. This type of PoC microfluidic device has distinct advantages, such as simplicity of the procedures, compared with other PoC devices using liquid-type diagnostic reagents. Despite the attractive characteristic, only diagnostic reagents based on the cloned enzyme donor immunoassay (CEDIA) have been freeze-dried in the microfluidic device. However, development of the PoC device based on the CEDIA method is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Here, we employed a molecule-responsive protein synthesis system as the diagnostic reagent to be freeze-dried in the microfluidic device. Such molecule-responsive protein synthesis has been well investigated in the field of molecular biology. Therefore, using the accumulated information, PoC devices can be efficiently developed. Thus, we developed a microfluidic device with an integrated freeze-dried molecule-responsive protein synthesis system. Using the developed device, we detected two types of bio-functional molecules (i.e., bacterial quorum sensing molecules and mercury ions) by injecting 1 µL of sample solution containing these molecules. We showed that the developed device is applicable for small-volume biosensing.
A Hardware Pseudo-Random Number Generator Using Stochastic Computing and Logistic Map
Authors: Liu Junxiu , Liang Zhewei , Luo Yuling , Cao Lvchen , Zhang Shunsheng , Wang Yanhu , Yang Su
Published: December 2020

Recent research showed that the chaotic maps are considered as alternative methods for generating pseudo-random numbers, and various approaches have been proposed for the corresponding hardware implementations. In this work, an efficient hardware pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) is proposed, where the one-dimensional logistic map is optimised by using the perturbation operation which effectively reduces the degradation of digital chaos. By employing stochastic computing, a hardware PRNG is designed with relatively low hardware utilisation. The proposed hardware PRNG is implemented by using a Field Programmable Gate Array device. Results show that the chaotic map achieves good security performance by using the perturbation operations and the generated pseudo-random numbers pass the TestU01 test and the NIST SP 800-22 test. Most importantly, it also saves 89% of hardware resources compared to conventional approaches.
Design and Experimental Analysis of Multiband Frequency Reconfigurable Antenna for 5G and Sub-6 GHz Wireless Communication
Authors: Dildar Haris , Althobiani Faisal , Ahmad Ikhlas , Khan Wasi Ur Rehman , Ullah Sadiq , Mufti Naveed , Ullah Shakir , Muhammad Fazal , Irfan Muhammad , Glowacz Adam
Published: December 2020

A low-profile frequency reconfigurable monopole antenna operating in the microwave frequency band is presented in this paper. The proposed structure is printed on Flame Retardant-4 (FR-4) substrate having relative permittivity of 4.3 and tangent loss of 0.025. Four pin diode switches are inserted between radiating patches for switching the various operating modes of an antenna. The proposed antenna operates in five modes, covering nine different bands by operating at single bands of 5 and 3.5 GHz in Mode 1 and Mode 2, dual bands (i.e., 2.6 and 6.5 GHz, 2.1 and 5.6 GHz) in Mode 3 and 4 and triple bands in Mode 5 (i.e., 1.8, 4.8, and 6.4 GHz). The Voltage Standing Waves Ratio (VSWR) of the presented antenna is less than 1.5 for all the operating bands. The efficiency of the designed antenna is 84 % and gain ranges from 1.2 to 3.6 dBi, respectively, at corresponding resonant frequencies. The achieve bandwidths at respective frequencies ranges from 10.5 to 28%. The proposed structure is modeled in Computer Simulation Technology microwave studio (CST MWS) and the simulated results are experimentally validated. Due to its reasonably small size and support for multiple wireless standards, the proposed antenna can be used in modern handheld fifth generation (5G) devices as well as Internet of Things (IoT) enabled systems in smart cities.
Enhancement of High-Resolution 3D Inkjet-Printing of Optical Freeform Surfaces Using Digital Twins
Authors: Sieber Ingo , Thelen Richard , Gengenbach Ulrich
Published: December 2020

3D-inkjet-printing is just beginning to take off in the optical field. Advantages of this technique include its fast and cost-efficient fabrication without tooling costs. However, there are still obstacles preventing 3D inkjet-printing from a broad usage in optics, e.g., insufficient form fidelity. In this article, we present the formulation of a digital twin by the enhancement of an optical model by integrating geometrical measurement data. This approach strengthens the high-precision 3D printing process to fulfil optical precision requirements. A process flow between the design of freeform components, fabrication by inkjet printing, the geometrical measurement of the fabricated optical surface, and the feedback of the measurement data into the simulation model was developed, and its interfaces were defined. The evaluation of the measurements allowed for the adaptation of the printing process to compensate for process errors and tolerances. Furthermore, the performance of the manufactured component was simulated and compared with the nominal performance, and the enhanced model could be used for sensitivity analysis. The method was applied to a highly complex helical surface that allowed for the adjustment of the optical power by rotation. We show that sensitivity analysis could be used to define acceptable tolerance budgets of the process.
Controlled Transcription of Regulator Gene carS by Tet-on or by a Strong Promoter Confirms Its Role as a Repressor of Carotenoid Biosynthesis in Fusarium fujikuroi
Authors: Marente Julia , Avalos Javier , Limón M.
Published: December 2020

Carotenoid biosynthesis is a frequent trait in fungi. In the ascomycete Fusarium fujikuroi, the synthesis of the carboxylic xanthophyll neurosporaxanthin (NX) is stimulated by light. However, the mutants of the carS gene, encoding a protein of the RING finger family, accumulate large NX amounts regardless of illumination, indicating the role of CarS as a negative regulator. To confirm CarS function, we used the Tet-on system to control carS expression in this fungus. The system was first set up with a reporter mluc gene, which showed a positive correlation between the inducer doxycycline and luminescence. Once the system was improved, the carS gene was expressed using Tet-on in the wild strain and in a carS mutant. In both cases, increased carS transcription provoked a downregulation of the structural genes of the pathway and albino phenotypes even under light. Similarly, when the carS gene was constitutively overexpressed under the control of a gpdA promoter, total downregulation of the NX pathway was observed. The results confirmed the role of CarS as a repressor of carotenogenesis in F. fujikuroi and revealed that its expression must be regulated in the wild strain to allow appropriate NX biosynthesis in response to illumination.
On-Site Blackwater Treatment Fosters Microbial Groups and Functions to Efficiently and Robustly Recover Carbon and Nutrients
Authors: Kuramae Eiko E. , Dimitrov Mauricio R. , da Silva Gustavo H. R. , Lucheta Adriano R. , Mendes Lucas W. , Luz Ronildson L. , Vet Louise E. M. , Fernandes Tania V.
Published: December 2020

Wastewater is considered a renewable resource water and energy. An advantage of decentralized sanitation systems is the separation of the blackwater (BW) stream, contaminated with human pathogens, from the remaining household water. However, the composition and functions of the microbial community in BW are not known. In this study, we used shotgun metagenomics to assess the dynamics of microbial community structure and function throughout a new BW anaerobic digestion system installed at The Netherlands Institute of Ecology. Samples from the influent (BW), primary effluent (anaerobic digested BW), sludge and final effluent of the pilot upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor and microalgae pilot tubular photobioreactor (PBR) were analyzed. Our results showed a decrease in microbial richness and diversity followed by a decrease in functional complexity and co-occurrence along the different modules of the bioreactor. The microbial diversity and function decrease were reflected both changes in substrate composition and wash conditions. Our wastewater treatment system also decreased microbial functions related to pathogenesis. In summary, the new sanitation system studied here fosters microbial groups and functions that allow the system to efficiently and robustly recover carbon and nutrients while reducing pathogenic groups, ultimately generating a final effluent safe for discharge and reuse.
Vibrio Colonization Is Highly Dynamic in Early Microplastic-Associated Biofilms as Well as on Field-Collected Microplastics
Authors: Kesy Katharina , Labrenz Matthias , Scales Brittan S. , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Oberbeckmann Sonja
Published: December 2020

Microplastics are ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems and provide a habitat for biofilm-forming bacteria. The genus Vibrio, which includes potential pathogens, was detected irregularly on microplastics. Since then, the potential of microplastics to enrich (and serve as a vector for) Vibrio has been widely discussed. We investigated Vibrio abundance and operational taxonomic unit (OTU) composition on polyethylene and polystyrene within the first 10 h of colonization during an in situ incubation experiment, along with those found on particles collected from the Baltic Sea. We used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and co-occurrence networks to elaborate the role of Vibrio within biofilms. Colonization of plastics with Vibrio was detectable after one hour of incubation; however, Vibrio numbers and composition were very dynamic, with a more stable population at the site with highest nutrients and lowest salinity. Likewise, Vibrio abundances on field-collected particles were variable but correlated with proximity to major cities. Vibrio was poorly connected within biofilm networks. Taken together, this indicates that Vibrio is an early colonizer of plastics, but that the process is undirected and independent of the specific surface. Still, higher nutrients could enhance a faster establishment of Vibrio populations. These parameters should be considered when planning studies investigating Vibrio on microplastics.
Improving the Cathodic Biofilm Growth Capabilities of Kyrpidia spormannii EA-1 by Undirected Mutagenesis
Authors: Jung Tobias , Hackbarth Max , Horn Harald , Gescher Johannes
Published: December 2020

The biotechnological usage of carbon dioxide has become a relevant aim for future processes. Microbial electrosynthesis is a rather new technique to energize biological CO2 fixation with the advantage to establish a continuous process based on a cathodic biofilm that is supplied with renewable electrical energy as electron and energy source. In this study, the recently characterized cathodic biofilm forming microorganism Kyrpidia spormannii strain EA-1 was used in an adaptive laboratory evolution experiment to enhance its cathodic biofilm growth capabilities. At the end of the experiment, the adapted cathodic population exhibited an up to fourfold higher biofilm accumulation rate, as well as faster substratum coverage and a more uniform biofilm morphology compared to the progenitor strain. Genomic variant analysis revealed a genomically heterogeneous population with genetic variations occurring to various extends throughout the community. Via the conducted analysis we identified possible targets for future genetic engineering with the aim to further optimize cathodic growth. Moreover, the results assist in elucidating the underlying processes that enable cathodic biofilm formation.
Electronic and Magnetic Structures of New Interstitial Boron Sub-Oxides B12O2:X (X = B, C, N, O)
Authors: Matar Samir F. , Etourneau Jean
Published: December 2020

The boron-rich boron sub-oxide rhombohedral B6O considered in B12O2 full formulation has a large O-O spacing of ~3 Å and a central vacant position that can receive interstitial atoms X, forming a central O-X-O alignment in the dodecaboron cage as observed in well-known triatomic B12 compounds as B12{C-C-C}, B12{N-B-N}, etc. Plane wave density functional theory (DFT) based calculations of unrestricted geometry relaxation of B12{O-X-O}, X = B, C, N, and O let one identify new ternary sub-oxides, all found cohesive while showing different d(X-O) distances ranging from d(B-O) = 1.95 Å down to d(O-O) = 1.73 Å with intermediate d(C-O) = 1.88 Å. The different magnitudes were assigned to the chemical affinities of X-inserts versus host oxygen with the increasing development of X-O bonding along the series with larger cohesive B12{O-O-O}. From the atom projected charge density, B presents none, while significant magnitudes are shown on C and N, the latter developing bonding with terminal oxygen atoms especially N. The presence of unpaired valence electrons leaves nonbonding charge density on X = C, N interstitial compounds, which, besides the relative isolation of the central C and N lead to the onset of magnetic moments: M(C) = 1.9 μB, and M(N) = 1 μB in a ferromagnetic ground state. Atom-resolved assessments are provided with the magnetic charge density and electron localization function electron localization function (ELF) projections on one hand and the site and spin projected density of states and the chemical bonding based on the overlap integral Sij within the COOP criterion, on the other hand.
New Bioactive Peptides Identified from a Tilapia Byproduct Hydrolysate Exerting Effects on DPP-IV Activity and Intestinal Hormones Regulation after Canine Gastrointestinal Simulated Digestion
Authors: Theysgeur Sandy , Cudennec Benoit , Deracinois Barbara , Perrin Claire , Guiller Isabelle , Lepoudère Anne , Flahaut Christophe , Ravallec Rozenn
Published: December 2020

Like their owners, dogs and cats are more and more affected by overweight and obesity-related problems and interest in functional pet foods is growing sharply. Through numerous studies, fish protein hydrolysates have proved their worth to prevent and manage obesity-related comorbidities like diabetes. In this work, a human in vitro static simulated gastrointestinal digestion model was adapted to the dog which allowed us to demonstrate the promising effects of a tilapia byproduct hydrolysate on the regulation of food intake and glucose metabolism. Promising effects on intestinal hormones secretion and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory activity were evidenced. We identify new bioactive peptides able to stimulate cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) secretions, and to inhibit the DPP-IV activity after a transport study through a Caco-2 cell monolayer.
Method for the Development of WISH, a Globally Applicable Index for Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems
Authors: Trijsburg Laura , Talsma Elise F. , Crispim Sandra P. , Garrett James , Kennedy Gina , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , Brouwer Inge D.
Published: December 2020

Promoting both a healthy diet and at the same time considering the environmental sustainability aspects of production and consumption of the diet are urgent global issues. We developed the WISH (World Index for Sustainability and Health) to evaluate diets for healthiness and sustainability. The WISH seeks to measure two complex multidimensional concepts, diet quality and environmental sustainability, in one scoring system. The WISH is based on the EAT-Lancet recommendations for a healthy and sustainable diet in the general population with global applicability across multiple settings. Thirteen food groups are scored between 0 and 10, based on their association with disease and impact on environmental indicators. The scoring system was applied using a dataset of duplicate 24 h dietary recalls from 396 urban Vietnamese men and women. Out of a maximum score of 130, the mean total WISH score was 46 (SD 11), and scores for the healthy and high-environmental impact sub-scores were mean 25 (11) (out of 100) and mean 26 (8) (out of 70) respectively. A higher score was observed for the less-healthy (mean 20 (2) out of 30) sub-score. Our initial analysis shows that the WISH is able to differentiate between the healthiness and the environmental sustainability of a Vietnamese diet.