bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleoside Diphosphate Kinase B Contributes to Arrhythmogenesis in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes from a Patient with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Buljubasic Fanis , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Lan Huan , Lomada Santosh K. , Chatterjee Anupriya , Zhao Zhihan , Li Xin , Zhong Rujia , Xu Qiang , Huang Mengying , Liao Zhenxing , Lang Siegfried , Cyganek Lukas , Zhou Xiaobo , Wieland Thomas , Borggrefe Martin , Akin Ibrahim
Published: February 2020

Background: Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a rare, inheritable cardiac disorder characterized by ventricular tachyarrhythmias, progressive loss of cardiomyocytes with fibrofatty replacement and sudden cardiac death. The exact underlying mechanisms are unclear. Methods: This study investigated the possible roles of nucleoside diphosphate kinase B (NDPK-B) and SK4 channels in the arrhythmogenesis of ARVC by using human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). Results: In hiPSC-CMs from a patient with ARVC, the expression levels of NDPK-B and SK4 channels were upregulated, the cell automaticity was increased and the occurrence rate of arrhythmic events was enhanced. Recombinant NDPK-B applied into hiPSC-CMs from either healthy donors or the patient enhanced SK4 channel current (ISK4), cell automaticity and the occurrence of arrhythmic events, whereas protein histidine phosphatase 1 (PHP-1), a counter actor of NDPK-B, prevented the NDPK-B effect. Application of PHP-1 alone or a SK4 channel blocker also reduced cell automaticity and arrhythmic events. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the elevated NDPK-B expression, via activating SK4 channels, contributes to arrhythmogenesis in ARVC, and hence, NDPK-B may be a potential therapeutic target for treating arrhythmias in patients with ARVC.
Initial Cluster of Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Infections in Wuhan, China Is Consistent with Substantial Human-to-Human Transmission
Authors: Nishiura Hiroshi , Linton Natalie M. , Akhmetzhanov Andrei R.
Published: February 2020

Reanalysis of the epidemic curve from the initial cluster of cases with novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in December 2019 indicates substantial human-to-human transmission. It is possible that the common exposure history at a seafood market in Wuhan originated from the human-to-human transmission events within the market, and the early, strong emphasis that market exposure indicated animal-to-human transmission was potentially the result of observer bias. To support the hypothesis of zoonotic origin of 2019-nCoV stemming from the Huanan seafood market, the index case should have had exposure history related to the market and the virus should have been identified from animals sold at the market. As these requirements remain unmet, zoonotic spillover at the market must not be overemphasized.
Pulp-Derived Exosomes in a Fibrin-Based Regenerative Root Filling Material
Authors: Ivica Anja , Ghayor Chafik , Zehnder Matthias , Valdec Silvio , Weber Franz E.
Published: February 2020

Regenerative endodontics has been described as a paradigm shift in dentistry, despite its current limitation to immature teeth and reparative rather than regenerative outcomes. Cell-free treatments are favored because of regulatory issues. However, the recruitment of host-derived stem cells to the desired site remains challenging. We investigated whether dental pulp-derived exosomes, which are extracellular vesicles that contain proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA and thus mirror their parental cells, may be used for this purpose. The use of exosomes may present appreciable advantages over the direct use of transplanted stem cells due to a higher safety profile, easier isolation, preservation, and handling. Here we harvested exosomes from a cultured third-molar pulp cell and assessed them by transmission electron microscopy and Western blotting. Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were exposed to these exosomes to assess exosome uptake, cell migration, and proliferation. In addition, a fibrin gel (i.e., a diluted fibrin sealant), was assessed as a delivery system for the exosomes. Our results show that exosomes attracted MSCs, and the fibrin gel enhanced their effect. Moreover, exosomes improved the proliferation of MSCs. Therefore, we propose that pulp-derived exosomes in combination with a fibrin gel could be a powerful combination for clinical translation towards improved cell-free regenerative endodontics and thus represent a new way to fill dental hard tissues.
Correlates of Self-Estimated Intelligence
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Grover Simmy
Published: February 2020

This paper reports two studies examining correlates of self-estimated intelligence (SEI). In the first, 517 participants completed a measure of SEI as well as self-estimated emotional intelligence (SEEQ), physical attractiveness, health, and other ratings. Males rated their IQ higher (74.12 vs. 71.55) but EQ lower (68.22 vs. 71.81) than females but there were no differences in their ratings of physical health in Study 1. Correlations showed for all participants that the higher they rated their IQ, the higher their ratings of EQ, attractiveness, and health. A regression of self-estimated intelligence onto three demographic, three self-ratings and three beliefs factors accounted for 30% of the variance. Religious, educated males who did not believe in alternative medicine gave higher SEI scores. The second study partly replicated the first, with an N = 475. Again, males rated their IQ higher (106.88 vs. 100.71) than females, but no difference was found for EQ (103.16 vs. 103.74). Males rated both their attractiveness (54.79 vs. 49.81) and health (61.24 vs. 55.49) higher than females. An objective test-based cognitive ability and SEI were correlated r = 0.30. Correlations showed, as in Study 1, positive relationships between all self-ratings. A regression showed the strongest correlates of SEI were IQ, sex and positive self-ratings. Implications and limitations are noted.
A Simple Superposition Formulation to Predict the Underwater Electric Potential Signature of Naval Vessels
Authors: Thiel Christian , Broecheler Claas , Ludwar Frank , Rennings Andreas , Doose Jens , Erni Daniel
Published: February 2020

The underwater electric potential (UEP) signature is an electric signal, which can be exploited by naval mines to be utilized as a possible trigger indicator and may cause severe damage to the vessel and the onboard crew. Hence, knowing the UEP signature as exactly as possible can help to evaluate a possible risk of the vessel being detected by naval mines or if the UEP signature is within a noncritical region. As the UEP signature differs for changes of the corrosion protection system, the UEP signature is usually unknown for new conditions. In this work, we present a simple mathematical formulation to predict the UEP signature based on the mere use of a single reference UEP signature, and the corresponding currents, which are excited by the impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system. With this methodology, deviations below 10% between the maximum of the simulated UEP signature and the predicted UEP signature can be achieved, even in the presence of the nonlinear corrosion process. Furthermore, a corrosion protective coating of the propellers can significantly reduce the influence of the nonlinear corrosion process on the total UEP signature to improve the prediction accuracy of the superposition formulation as presented in this work.
An Overview on Conventional and Non-Conventional Therapeutic Approaches for the Treatment of Candidiasis and Underlying Resistance Mechanisms in Clinical Strains
Authors: Salazar Sara B. , Simões Rita S. , Pedro Nuno A. , Pinheiro Maria Joana , Carvalho Maria Fernanda N. N. , Mira Nuno P.
Published: February 2020

Fungal infections and, in particular, those caused by species of the Candida genus, are growing at an alarming rate and have high associated rates of mortality and morbidity. These infections, generally referred as candidiasis, range from common superficial rushes caused by an overgrowth of the yeasts in mucosal surfaces to life-threatening disseminated mycoses. The success of currently used antifungal drugs to treat candidiasis is being endangered by the continuous emergence of resistant strains, specially among non-albicans Candida species. In this review article, the mechanisms of action of currently used antifungals, with emphasis on the mechanisms of resistance reported in clinical isolates, are reviewed. Novel approaches being taken to successfully inhibit growth of pathogenic Candida species, in particular those based on the exploration of natural or synthetic chemicals or on the activity of live probiotics, are also reviewed. It is expected that these novel approaches, either used alone or in combination with traditional antifungals, may contribute to foster the identification of novel anti-Candida therapies.
Improving Infrastructure Installation Planning Processes using Procedural Modeling
Authors: Choei Nae-Young , Kim Hyungkyoo , Kim Seonghun
Published: February 2020

Time and costs are often the most critical constraints in implementing a development impact fee (DIF) for local infrastructure installation planning in South Korea. For this reason, drafting quality plan alternatives and calculating precise DIFs for improvement remain challenging. This study proposes an application of a procedural modeling method using CityEngine as an alternative to traditional methods, which rely on AutoCAD. A virtual low-density suburban development project in Jeju, South Korea was used to compare the workability of the two methods. The findings suggest that procedural modeling outperforms the other approach by significantly reducing the number of steps and commands required in the planning process. This paper also argues that procedural modeling provides real-time 2- and 3-dimensional modeling and design evaluation and allows for a more efficient assessment of plan quality and calculation of DIF. We also argue for the need to diffuse procedural modeling to better support local planning practices.
Coupling of Cell Division and Differentiation in Arabidopsis thaliana Cultured Cells with Interaction of Ethylene and ABA Signaling Pathways
Authors: Novikova Galina V. , Stepanchenko Natalia S. , Zorina Anna A. , Nosov Alexander V. , Rakitin Victor Y. , Moshkov Igor E. , Los Dmitry A.
Published: February 2020

Recent studies indicate direct links between molecular cell cycle and cell differentiation machineries. Ethylene and abscisic acid (ABA) are known to affect cell division and differentiation, but the mechanisms of such effects are poorly understood. As ethylene and ABA signaling routes may interact, we examined their involvement in cell division and differentiation in cell tissue cultures derived from several Arabidopsis thaliana plants: wild type (Col-0), and ethylene-insensitive mutants etr1-1, ctr1-1, and ein2-1. We designed an experimental setup to analyze the growth-related parameters and molecular mechanisms in proliferating cells upon short exposure to ABA. Here, we provide evidence for the ethylene–ABA signaling pathways’ interaction in the regulation of cell division and differentiation as follows: (1) when the ethylene signal transduction pathway is functionally active (Col-0), the cells actively proliferate, and exogenous ABA performs its function as an inhibitor of DNA synthesis and division; (2) if the ethylene signal is not perceived (etr1-1), then, in addition to cell differentiation (tracheary elements formation), cell death can occur. The addition of exogenous ABA can rescue the cells via increasing proliferation; (3) if the ethylene signal is perceived, but not transduced (ein2-1), then cell differentiation takes place—the latter is enhanced by exogenous ABA while cell proliferation is reduced; (4) when the signal transduction pathway is constitutively active, the cells begin to exit the cell cycle and proceed to endo-reduplication (ctr1-1). In this case, the addition of exogenous ABA promotes reactivation of cell division.
Magnesium Reinforced with Inconel 718 Particles Prepared Ex Situ—Microstructure and Properties
Authors: Trojanová Zuzanka , Drozd Zdeněk , Lukáč Pavel , Minárik Peter , Németh Gergely , Seetharaman Sankaranarayanan , Džugan Ján , Gupta Manoj
Published: February 2020

Magnesium samples reinforced with 0.7, 1.4, and 2.4 vol.% of Inconel 718 particles were prepared using a disintegrated melt deposition technique followed by hot extrusion. Mechanical properties, thermal expansion, and damping were studied with the aim of revealing the particle influence on the microstructure, texture, tensile and compressive behavior, thermal expansion coefficient, and internal friction. The flow stresses are significantly influenced by the test temperature and the vol.% of particles. A substantial asymmetry in the tensile and compressive properties was observed at lower temperatures. This asymmetry is caused by different deformation mechanisms operating in tension and compression. The fiber texture of extruded composite samples, refined grain sizes, and the increased dislocation density improved the mechanical properties. On the other hand, a decrease in the thermal expansion coefficient and internal friction was observed.
Material-Oriented Shape Functions for FGM Plate Finite Element Formulation
Authors: Gilewski Wojciech , Pełczyński Jan
Published: February 2020

A four-noded finite element of a moderately thick plate made of functionally graded material (FGM) is presented. The base element is rectangular and can be extended to any shape using a transformation based on NURBS functions. The proposed 2D shape functions are consistent with the physical interpretation and describe the states of element displacement caused by unit displacements of nodes. These functions depend on the FGM’s material parameters and are called material-oriented. The shape function matrix is based on a superposition displacement field of two plate strips with 1D exact shape functions. A characteristic feature of the proposed formulation is full coupling of the membrane and bending states in the plate. The analytical form of the stiffness matrix and the nodal load vector was obtained, which leads to the numerical efficiency of the formulation. The element has been incorporated into Abaqus software with the use of Maple program. The finite element shows good convergence properties for different FGM models in the transverse direction to the middle plane of the plate. During derivation of the 2D plate element the formally exact 1D finite element for transverse nonhomogeneous FGM plate strip was developed.
Experimental Study on Water Recovery from Flue Gas Using Macroporous Ceramic Membrane
Authors: Cheng Chao , Zhang Heng , Chen Haiping
Published: February 2020

In this work, a ceramic membrane tube with a pore size of 1 μm was used to conduct experimental research on moisture and waste heat recovery from flue gas. The length, inner/outer diameter, and porosity were 800 mm, 8/12 mm, and 27.2%, respectively. In the experiments, the flue gas, which was artificially prepared, flowed on the shell side of membrane module. The water coolant passed through the membrane counter-currently with the gas. The effects of flue gas flow rate, flue gas temperature, water coolant flux, and water coolant temperature on the membrane recovery performance were analyzed. The results indicated that, upon increasing the flue gas flow rate and its temperature, both the amount of recycled water and the recovered heat increased. The amount of recycled water, recycled water rate, recovered heat, and heat recovery rate all decreased as the water coolant temperature increased. When the water coolant temperature exceeded 30 °C, the amount of recycled water dropped sharply. The maximum amounts of recycled water, recovered heat, and total heat transfer coefficient were 2.93 kg/(m2·h), 3.63 kW/m2, and 224.3 W/(m2·K), respectively.
Investigation of the Thermal Properties of Diesters from Methanol, 1-Pentanol, and 1-Decanol as Sustainable Phase Change Materials
Authors: Ravotti Rebecca , Fellmann Oliver , Fischer Ludger J. , Worlitschek Jörg , Stamatiou Anastasia
Published: February 2020

Esters present several advantages when compared to traditional materials used for thermal energy storage, amongst which are better sustainability and greater chemical stability. However, at present, their thermal properties remain mostly unknown or not well documented. In this study, 12 diesters from four dicarboxylic acids (oxalic, succinic, suberic, sebacic) and three alcohols (methanol, 1-pentanol, 1-decanol) have been assessed as bio-based phase change materials for thermal energy storage. All diesters have been synthesized via Fischer esterification to high purities, and their chemical structures, as well as thermal properties, have been fully characterized. The diesters investigated show phase change transitions in a low–mid temperature range between −32 and 46 °C with maximum enthalpies of 172 J/g and show higher degrees of supercooling compared to fatty monoesters. Similarly to other esters classes, some trends correlating the chemical structures to the thermal properties were identified, which would allow for the development of property prediction tools.
In Vitro Re-Hardening of Bleached Enamel Using Mineralizing Pastes: Toward Preventing Bacterial Colonization
Authors: Scribante Andrea , Poggio Claudio , Gallo Simone , Riva Paolo , Cuocci Antonella , Carbone Manuel , Arciola Carla , Colombo Marco
Published: February 2020

The search for materials able to remineralize human hard tissues is a modern medical challenge. In this study, the protective effect on the enamel microhardness by a paste based on hydroxyapatite and sodium fluoride (Remin Pro) was evaluated after two different enamel bleaching procedures. Forty sound human incisors were randomly assigned to different treatments: bleaching with an in-office agent (Perfect Bleach Office+); bleaching with an at-home agent (Perfect Bleach); bleaching with the in-office agent followed by the prophylaxis paste; bleaching with the at-home agent followed by the prophylaxis paste; no treatment (control). Bleaching was performed at 0, 8, 24 and 32 h, followed by a 3-min re-mineralizing treatment in the subgroups designed to receive it. Specimens underwent a micro-hardness tester and a mean Vickers Hardness number was considered for each specimen. ANOVA exhibited significant differences among groups. Post-hoc Tukey testing showed significant micro-hardness decrease after the application of both the two bleaching agents. The treatment with prophylaxis paste significantly increased the micro-hardness values of bleached enamel.
Initial Selection of Disc Brake Pads Material based on the Temperature Mode
Authors: Yevtushenko Aleksander A. , Grzes Piotr
Published: February 2020

A spatial computational model of a motor vehicle disc brake, based on the system of equations of heat dynamics of friction and wear (HDFW), was developed. The interrelations of temperature-dependent coefficient of friction and coefficient of intensity of wear through the contact temperature and vehicle velocity were taken into account. The solution of the system of equations of HDFW was obtained by the finite element method (FEM) for six different brake pad materials associated with the cast-iron disc during a single braking. Changes in the braking time, coefficient of friction, braking torque, vehicle velocity, mean temperature of the contact area of the pads with the disc and wear of the friction surfaces were determined. Then, the obtained calculation results were evaluated in terms of stabilization of the coefficient of friction (braking torque), as well as minimization of the maximum temperature, wear, braking time and pads mass. As a result, recommendations were given to select optimum brake pad material in combination with a cast-iron disc.
Ultra-Highly Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue Based on Graphene Oxide/TiO2/Bentonite Sponge
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wang Luyan , Xue Ni , Wang Pengxiang , Pei Meishan , Guo Wenjuan
Published: February 2020

An ultra-highly efficient Graphene Oxide/TiO2/Bentonite (GO/TiO2/Bent) sponge was synthesized using an in situ hydrothermal method. GO/TiO2/Bent sponge with a GO mass concentration of 10% exhibited the highest treatment efficiency of methylene blue (MB), combining adsorption and photocatalytic degradation, and achieved a maximum removal efficiency of 100% within about 70 min. To further prove the ultra-high removal capacity of the sponge, the concentration of MB in water increased to ten times the original concentration. At so high a MB concentration, the removal rate was still as high as 80% in 90 min. The photocatalytic mechanism of GO/TiO2/Bent sponge was discussed through XPS, PL and radicals quenching experiments. Here Bent can immobilize TiO2 and react with a photo-generated hole to increase the amount of hydroxyl radical; effectively enhancing the degradation of MB.GO sponge enlarges the sensitivity range of TiO2 to visible light by increasing the charge separation of TiO2 and reducing the recombination of photo-generated electron–hole pairs. Additionally, GO sponge with an interconnected porous structure provides an effective platform to immobilize TiO2/bent and makes them be easily recovered. The as-prepared sponge develops a simple and cost-effective strategy to realize the ultra-highly efficient treatment of dyes in wastewater.
Conjugacy of Dynamical Systems on Self-Similar Groups
Authors: Yi Inhyeop
Published: February 2020

We show that the limits for dynamical systems of self-similar groups are eventually conjugate if, and only if, there is an isomorphism between their Deaconu groupoid preserving cocycles. For limit solenoids of self-similar groups, we show that the conjugacy of limit solenoids is equivalent to existence of isomorphism between the Deaconu groupoids of limit solenoid preserving cocycles.
Electrocardiographic Changes in Liver Cirrhosis—Clues for Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Toma Letitia , Stanciu Adriana Mercan , Zgura Anca , Bacalbasa Nicolae , Diaconu Camelia , Iliescu Laura
Published: February 2020

Background and Objectives: Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is a chronic cardiac dysfunction associated with liver cirrhosis, in patients without previous heart disease, irrespective of the etiology of cirrhosis. Electrocardiography (ECG) is an important way to evaluate patients with cirrhosis and may reveal significant changes associated with liver disease. Our study aimed to evaluate ECG changes in patients with diagnosed liver cirrhosis and compare them to patients with chronic hepatitis. Materials and Methods: We evaluated laboratory findings and ECG tracings in 63 patients with cirrhosis and 54 patients with chronic hepatitis of viral etiology. The end points of the study were prolonged QT interval, QRS hypovoltage and T-peak-to-T-end decrease. We confirmed the diagnosis of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy using echocardiography data. Results: Advanced liver disease was associated with prolonged QT intervals. Also, QRS amplitude was lower in patients with decompensated cirrhosis than in patients with compensated liver disease. We found an accentuated deceleration of the T wave in patients with cirrhosis. These findings correlated to serum levels of albumin, cholesterol and ammonia. Conclusions: ECG changes in liver cirrhosis are frequently encountered and are important noninvasive markers for the presence of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
Association of Circulating COMP and YKL-40 as Markers of Metabolic Changes of Cartilage with Adipocytokines in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Winsz-Szczotka Katarzyna , Kuźnik-Trocha Kornelia , Gruenpeter Anna , Wojdas Magdalena , Dąbkowska Klaudia , Olczyk Krystyna
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of circulating cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and human cartilage glycoprotein-39 (YKL-40) as markers of metabolic changes of cartilage, with leptin, adiponectin, and resistin in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients before and after treatment. A significant decrease of COMP and an increase of YKL-4 were found in blood of untreated patients. JIA treatment leading to clinical improvement resulted in normalization of COMP levels only. Concentrations of both markers in treated patients, while showing no clinical improvement, differed from those in controls and patients with remission. The leptin level decreased (p < 0.05) in untreated patients; however, concentrations of adiponectin and resistin increased (p < 0.05) as compared to controls. JIA treatment resulted in normalization of adipocytokine levels in remissive patients but not those with active JIA. Untreated patients showed a correlation between COMP and leptin, adiponectin, and body mass index (BMI) and between YKL-40 and leptin, adiponectin, BMI, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). In inactive JIA, a correlation between YKL-40 and leptin was shown. Treated patients with an active JIA demonstrated a correlation between COMP and adiponectin and between YKL-40 and leptin, adiponectin, BMI, CRP, and ESR. The results of this work indicate that leptin and adiponectin but not resistin may be involved in the development and progression of joint dysfunction in JIA. Additionally, we suggest that YKL-40 may be a useful biomarker of disease activity and may be used to assess treatment towards remission, as compared to COMP.
Seminal Fluid Metabolomic Markers of Oligozoospermic Infertility in Humans
Authors: Murgia Federica , Corda Valentina , Serrenti Marianna , Usai Valeria , Santoru Maria Laura , Hurt K. Joseph , Passaretti Mauro , Monni Maria Carla , Atzori Luigi , Monni Giovanni
Published: February 2020

Infertility affects 12–15% of couples worldwide, and male factors are the cause of nearly half of all cases. Studying seminal fluid composition could lead to additional diagnostic accuracy and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of male factor infertility. Metabolomics offers a new opportunity to evaluate biomarkers and better understand pathological mechanisms. The aim of the study was to identify new markers or therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in male factor or idiopathic infertility patients. Semen samples were obtained from 29 men with a normal spermogram test, and from 18 oligozoospermic men. Samples were processed and analyzed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy and, subsequently, multivariate and univariate statistical analyses. Receiving Operator Curves (ROC) and Spearman correlations were also performed. An Orthogonal Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis supervised multivariate model was devised to compare the groups. The levels of fructose, myo-inositol, aspartate and choline were altered. Moreover, Spearman Correlation associated fructose, aspartate and myo-inositol with the total amount of spermatozoa, total motile spermatozoa, % of immotility and % of “in situ” spermatozoic motility respectively. NMR-based metabolomics allowed the identification of a specific metabolic fingerprint of the seminal fluids of patients affected by oligozoospermia.
A Novel Microfluidic Device Integrated with Chitosan-Modified Capillaries for Rapid ZIKV Detection
Authors: Zhu Xinchao , Zhao Jun , Hu Anzhong , Pan Jingyu , Deng Guoqing , Hua Changyi , Zhu Cancan , Liu Yong , Yang Ke , Zhu Ling
Published: February 2020

The outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV) has posed a great challenge to public health in recent years. To address the urgent need of ZIKV RNA assays, we integrate the microfluidic chip embedded with chitosan-modified silicon dioxide capillaries, smartphone-based detection unit to be a C3-system for the rapid extraction and detection of ZIKV RNA. The C3-system is characterized by: (1) four chitosan-modified silicon dioxide capillaries integrated in the microfluidic chip for target ZIKV RNA enrichment and “in situ PCR” (polymerase chain reaction) amplification; (2) smartphone-based point of care (POC) device consisting of a pneumatic subsystem for controlling the nucleic acid extraction processes in the microfluidic chip, a heating subsystem for sample lysis and PCR amplification, and an optical subsystem for signal acquisition. The entire detection processes including sample lysis, ZIKV RNA enrichment, and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is achieved in the microfluidic chip. Moreover, PCR buffers can be directly loaded into the chitosan-modified silicon dioxide capillaries for “in situ PCR”, in which the captured ZIKV RNA is directly used for downstream PCR without any loss. ZIKV RNA extracted by the C3-system can be successfully recovered at very low concentrations of 50 transducing units (TU)/mL from crude human saliva. This means that our method of detecting viremia in patients infected with ZIKV is reliable.
High-Level Production of Bacteriotoxic Phospholipase A1 in Bacterial Host Pseudomonas fluorescens via ABC Transporter-Mediated Secretion and Inducible Expression
Authors: Park Jiyeon , Tae Eom Gyeong , Young Oh Joon , Hyun Park Ji , Chang Kim Sun , Kwang Song Jae , Hoon Ahn Jung
Published: February 2020

Bacterial phospholipase A1 (PLA1) is used in various industrial fields because it can catalyze the hydrolysis, esterification, and transesterification of phospholipids to their functional derivatives. It also has a role in the degumming process of crude plant oils. However, bacterial expression of the foreign PLA1-encoding gene was generally hampered because intracellularly expressed PLA1 is inherently toxic and damages the phospholipid membrane. In this study, we report that secretion-based production of recombinant PlaA, a bacterial PLA1 gene, or co-expression of PlaS, an accessory gene, minimizes this harmful effect. We were able to achieve high-level PlaA production via secretion-based protein production. Here, TliD/TliE/TliF, an ABC transporter complex of Pseudomonas fluorescens SIK-W1, was used to secrete recombinant proteins to the extracellular medium. In order to control the protein expression with induction, a new strain of P. fluorescens, which had the lac operon repressor gene lacI, was constructed and named ZYAI strain. The bacteriotoxic PlaA protein was successfully produced in a bacterial host, with help from ABC transporter-mediated secretion, induction-controlled protein expression, and fermentation. The final protein product is capable of degumming oil efficiently, signifying its application potential.
In Vitro Fumonisin Biosynthesis and Genetic Structure of Fusarium verticillioides Strains from Five Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Beccari Giovanni , Stępień Łukasz , Onofri Andrea , Lattanzio Veronica M. T. , Ciasca Biancamaria , Abd-El Fatah Sally I. , Valente Francesco , Urbaniak Monika , Covarelli Lorenzo
Published: February 2020

Investigating the in vitro fumonisin biosynthesis and the genetic structure of Fusarium verticillioides populations can provide important insights into the relationships between strains originating from various world regions. In this study, 90 F. verticillioides strains isolated from maize in five Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Tunisia, Egypt and Iran) were analyzed to investigate their ability to in vitro biosynthesize fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2 and fumonisin B3 and to characterize their genetic profile. In general, 80% of the analyzed strains were able to biosynthesize fumonisins (range 0.03–69.84 μg/g). Populations from Italy, Spain, Tunisia and Iran showed a similar percentage of fumonisin producing strains (>90%); conversely, the Egyptian population showed a lower level of producing strains (46%). Significant differences in fumonisin biosynthesis were detected among strains isolated in the same country and among strains isolated from different countries. A portion of the divergent FUM1 gene and of intergenic regions FUM6-FUM7 and FUM7-FUM8 were sequenced to evaluate strain diversity among populations. A high level of genetic uniformity inside the populations analyzed was detected. Apparently, neither geographical origin nor fumonisin production ability were correlated to the genetic diversity of the strain set. However, four strains from Egypt differed from the remaining strains.
Stabilizing the Oil-in-Water Emulsions Using the Mixtures of Dendrobium Officinale Polysaccharides and Gum Arabic or Propylene Glycol Alginate
Authors: Wang Bo , Tian Haiyan , Xiang Dong
Published: February 2020

Coconut oil-in-water emulsions were prepared using three polysaccharides: Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), propylene glycol alginate (PGA), gum arabic (GA) and their polysaccharide complexes as emulsifiers. The effects of the ratio of the compounded polysaccharides on their apparent viscosity and interfacial activity were explored in this study. The average particle size, zeta potential, microstructure, rheological properties, and physical stability of the emulsions prepared with different compound-polysaccharides were studied. The results showed that mainly DOP contributed to the apparent viscosity of the compound-polysaccharide, while the interfacial activity and zeta potential were mainly influenced by PGA or GA. Emulsions prepared with compound-polysaccharides exhibited smaller average particle sizes, and microscopic observations showed smaller droplets and less droplet aggregation. In addition, the stability analysis of emulsions by a dispersion analyzer LUMiSizer showed that the emulsion prepared by compounding polysaccharides had better physical stability. Finally, all of the above experimental results showed that the emulsions prepared by PGA:DOP = 2:8 (total concentration = 1.5 wt%) and 2.0% GA + 1.5% DOP were the most stable.
Anticancer Activities of the Quinone-Methide Triterpenes Maytenin and 22-β-hydroxymaytenin Obtained from Cultivated Maytenus ilicifolia Roots Associated with Down-Regulation of miRNA-27a and miR-20a/miR-17-5p
Authors: Hernandes Camila , Miguita Lucyene , de Sales Romario Oliveira , Silva Elisangela de Paula , Mendonça Pedro Omori Ribeiro de , Lorencini da Silva Bruna , Klingbeil Maria de Fatima Guarizo , Mathor Monica Beatriz , Rangel Erika Bevilaqua , Marti Luciana Cavalheiro , Coppede Juliana da Silva , Nunes Fabio Daumas , Pereira Ana Maria Soares , Severino Patricia
Published: February 2020

Natural triterpenes exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Since this group of secondary metabolites is structurally diverse, effects may vary due to distinct biochemical interactions within biological systems. In this work, we investigated the anticancer-related activities of the quinone-methide triterpene maytenin and its derivative compound 22-β-hydroxymaytenin, obtained from Maytenus ilicifolia roots cultivated in vitro. Their antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic activities were evaluated in monolayer and three-dimensional cultures of immortalized cell lines. Additionally, we investigated the toxicity of maytenin in SCID mice harboring tumors derived from a squamous cell carcinoma cell line. Both isolated molecules presented pronounced pro-apoptotic activities in four cell lines derived from head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, including a metastasis-derived cell line. The molecules also induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and down-regulated microRNA-27a and microRNA-20a/miR-17-5p, corroborating with the literature data for triterpenoids. Intraperitoneal administration of maytenin to tumor-bearing mice did not lead to pronounced histopathological changes in kidney tissue, suggesting low nephrotoxicity. The wide-ranging activity of maytenin and 22-β-hydroxymaytenin in head and neck cancer cells indicates that these molecules should be further explored in plant biochemistry and biotechnology for therapeutic applications.
Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni, a Source of High-Potency Natural Sweetener—Biochemical and Genetic Characterization
Authors: Dyduch-Siemińska Magdalena , Najda Agnieszka , Gawroński Jacek , Balant Sebastian , Świca Klaudia , Żaba Agnieszka
Published: February 2020

Stevia rebaudiana is a natural sweetener herb that is increasingly used in herbal medicines in the food and cosmetics industries. Molecular methods can be combined with morphological techniques to identify stevia genotypes as a starting material to produce more reliable bioproducts. This study evaluated the level of the genetic and biochemical diversity in various stevia genotypes using HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Stevia genotypes collected from different locations of the world showed clear variations at the biochemical and genetic level in Polish climate conditions. The influence of the genotypes on the content of steviol glycosides, antioxidants, phenols, flavonoids, and tannins was analyzed using phytochemical assays. Genotypes from Morocco, Poland, Egypt, and Nigeria can be defined as samples of higher quality compared to other genotypes analyzed in terms of the amount of steviol glycosides. Considering the rebaudioside A/stevioside ratio as a selection criterion, genotypes from Australia, China, India, and Pakistan should be considered to be valuable in terms of suitability for obtaining new varieties. The present results of RAPD marker analysis indicated differential banding pattern and considerable polymorphism among all ten stevia genotypes. Genotypes from Morocco, Egypt, Poland, Nigeria, China, and India, as genetically different, can be selected for further stevia breeding programs.
Discovery of 9O-Substituted Palmatine Derivatives as a New Class of Anti-COL1A1 Agents Via Repressing TGF-β1/Smads and JAK1/STAT3 Pathways
Authors: Fan Tianyun , Ge Maoxu , Guo Zhihao , He Hongwei , Zhang Na , Li Yinghong , Song Danqing
Published: February 2020

Twenty 9O-substituted palmatine derivatives were prepared and tested for their biological effect against collagen α1 (I) (COL1A1) promotor in human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells. The structure−activity relationship (SAR) indicated that the introduction of a benzyl motif on the 9O atom was favorable for activity. Among them, compound 6c provided the highest inhibitory effect against COL1A1 with an IC50 value of 3.98 μM, and it also dose-dependently inhibited the expression of fibrogenic COL1A1, α-soomth muscle actin (α-SMA), matrix metalloprotein 2 (MMP2) in both mRNA and protein levels, indicating extensive inhibitory activity against fibrogenesis. A further primary mechanism study indicated that it might repress the hepatic fibrogenesis via inhibiting both canonical transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)/Smads and non-canonical janus-activated kinase 1 (JAK1)/singal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathways. Additionally, 6c owned a high safety profile with the LD50 value of over 1000 mg·kg−1 in mice. These results identified palmatine derivatives as a novel class of anti-fibrogenic agents, and provided powerful information for further structure optimization.
Current Transport Mechanism in Palladium Schottky Contact on Si-Based Freestanding GaN
Authors: Lee Moonsang , Ahn Chang Wan , Vu Thi Kim Oanh , Lee Hyun Uk , Jeong Yesul , Hahm Myung Gwan , Kim Eun Kyu , Park Sungsoo
Published: February 2020

In this study, the charge transport mechanism of Pd/Si-based FS-GaN Schottky diodes was investigated. A temperature-dependent current–voltage analysis revealed that the I-V characteristics of the diodes show a good rectifying behavior with a large ratio of 103–105 at the forward to reverse current at ±1 V. The interface states and non-interacting point defect complex between the Pd metal and FS-GaN crystals induced the inhomogeneity of the barrier height and large ideality factors. Furthermore, we revealed that the electronic conduction of the devices prefers the thermionic field emission (TFE) transport, not the thermionic emission (TE) model, over the entire measurement conditions. The investigation on deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) suggests that non-interacting point-defect-driven tunneling influences the charge transport. This investigation about charge transport paves the way to achieving next-generation optoelectronic applications using Si-based FS-GaN Schottky diodes.
Facile Preparation of Stable Solid-State Carbon Quantum Dots with Multi-Peak Emission
Authors: Zheng Yanning , Zheng Jingxia , Wang Junli , Yang Yongzhen , Lu Taiping , Liu Xuguang
Published: February 2020

Aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) effect, known as the main cause to restrain solid-state luminescence of carbon quantum dots (CQDs), hinders further application of CQDs in white light-emitting diodes (WLED). Here, a complex of CQDs and phthalimide crystals (CQDs/PC) was prepared through a one-step solvothermal method. CQDs/PC prevented CQDs from touching directly by embedding the CQDs in phthalimide crystal matrix in situ, which effectively reduced the ACQ effect. Furthermore, CQDs/PC exhibited multi-peak fluorescence spectra that span the green, yellow and orange spectral regions. Finally, a WLED fabricated based on CQDs/PC achieved a color-rendering index of 82 and a correlated color temperature of 5430 K. This work provides a quick and effective strategy to apply CQDs to WLED.
Florfenicol Binding to Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Nanoparticles in Model and Real Samples
Authors: Caro Nelson , Bruna Tamara , Guerreiro Antonio , Alvarez-Tejos Paola , Garretón Virginia , Piletsky Sergey , González-Casanova Jorge , Rojas-Gómez Diana , Ehrenfeld Nicole
Published: February 2020

A simple and straightforward technique for coating microplate wells with molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) to develop assays similar to the enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay to determine and quantify florfenicol (FF) in real food samples such as liquid milk and salmon muscle is presented here. The nanoMIPs were synthesized by a solid-phase approach with an immobilized FF (template) and characterized using dynamic light scattering, a SPR-2 biosensor system and transmission electron microscopy. Immobilization of nanoMIPs was conducted by preparing a homogenous solution of FF-nanoMIPs in water mixed with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) 0.2% (w/v) in each well of a microplate. The detection of florfenicol was achieved in competitive binding experiments with a horseradish peroxidase−florfenicol (FF–HRP) conjugate. The assay made it possible to measure FF in buffer and in real samples (liquid milk and salmon muscle) within the range of 60−80 and 90–100 ng/mL, respectively. The immobilized nanoMIPs were stored for six weeks at room temperature and at 5 °C. The results indicate good signal recovery for all FF concentrations in spiked milk samples, without any detrimental effects to their binding properties. The high affinity of nanoMIPs and the lack of a requirement for cold chain logistics make them an attractive alternative to traditional antibodies used in ELISA.
Effects of Buffer Gases on Graphene Flakes Synthesis in Thermal Plasma Process at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Wang Cheng , Song Ming , Chen Xianhui , Li Dongning , Xia Weiluo , Xia Weidong
Published: February 2020

A thermal plasma process at atmospheric pressure is an attractive method for continuous synthesis of graphene flakes. In this paper, a magnetically rotating arc plasma system is employed to investigate the effects of buffer gases on graphene flakes synthesis in a thermal plasma process. Carbon nanomaterials are prepared in Ar, He, Ar-H2, and Ar-N2 via propane decomposition, and the product characterization is performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method. Results show that spherical particles, semi-graphitic particles, and graphene flakes coexist in products under an Ar atmosphere. Under an He atmosphere, all products are graphene flakes. Graphene flakes with fewer layers, higher crystallinity, and a larger BET surface area are prepared in Ar-H2 and Ar-N2. Preliminary analysis reveals that a high-energy environment and abundant H atoms can suppress the formation of curved or closed structures, which leads to the production of graphene flakes with high crystallinity. Furthermore, nitrogen-doped graphene flakes with 1–4 layers are successfully synthesized with the addition of N2, which indicates the thermal plasma process also has great potential for the synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene flakes due to its continuous manner, cheap raw materials, and adjustable nitrogen-doped content.
The Effects of Community Home Visit and Peer Group Nutrition Intervention Delivery Platforms on Nutrition Outcomes in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Janmohamed Amynah , Sohani Nazia , Lassi Zohra , Bhutta Zulfiqar
Published: February 2020

Weak delivery systems reduce the potential of evidence-supported interventions to improve nutrition. We synthesized the evidence for the effectiveness of nutrition-specific intervention delivery platforms for improving nutrition outcomes in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). A systematic literature search for studies published from 1997 to June 2018 resulted in the inclusion of 83 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-randomized, and controlled before–after studies across a variety of delivery platforms. In this paper, we report on meta-analysed outcomes for community health worker (CHW) home visits and mother/peer group delivery platforms. Compared to care as usual, CHW home visits increased early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) (OR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.99; n = 10 RCTs) and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) (OR: 4.42; 95% CI: 2.28, 8.56; n = 9 RCTs) and mother/peer groups were effective for improving children’s minimum dietary diversity (OR: 2.34; 95% CI: 1.17, 4.70; n = 4) and minimum meal frequency (OR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.61, 3.31; n = 3). Pooled estimates from studies using both home visit and group platforms showed positive results for EIBF (OR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.12, 4.05; n = 9), EBF (OR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.70, 3.46; n = 12), and < 5 wasting (OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.67, 0.89; n = 4). Our findings underscore the importance of interpersonal community platforms for improving infant and young child feeding practices and children’s nutritional status in LMICs.
Affective and Enjoyment Responses to Short-Term High-Intensity Interval Training with Low-Carbohydrate Diet in Overweight Young Women
Authors: Kong Zhaowei , Hu Mingzhu , Liu Yang , Shi Qingde , Zou Liye , Sun Shengyan , Zhang Haifeng , Nie Jinlei
Published: February 2020

Low-carbohydrate diets (LCs) seem effective on weight reduction and maintenance. However, the affect and enjoyment of exercise during LCs is not clear. The purpose of the present study was to compare the psychological responses to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and to moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) during the consumption of a 4-week LC diet in overweight young women. With LCs (~10% carbohydrate, 65%–70% fat, 20%–25% protein), forty-three eligible women (age: 20.9 ± 3.1 years; body weight: 65.8 ± 8.2 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: HIIT (10 sets of 6 s all-out cycling interspersed with 9 s of rest), MICT (30 min cycling at 50%–60% of peak oxygen consumption, V̇O2peak) or no-exercise controls (CON). Anthropometric indices and V̇O2peak were measured pre- and post-training. Feeling Scale (FS), Felt Arousal Scale (FAS), Exercise Enjoyment Scale (EES), and Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) scores were collected before and immediately after each training session throughout the study. After intervention, all three groups reduced by more than 2.5 kg of body weight whereas both exercise groups improved ~15% V̇O2peak. Participants in the HIIT and MICT group exhibited similar affect points as indicated by FS and FAS. Post-exercise enjoyment scores in PACES were lower in HIIT (73–78 points) than MICT (83–87 points) despite similarly positive responses being observed in EES (corresponding to ~4 points of a 7-point scale). Short-term LCs were effective in weight loss and exercise training had an additive improvement on cardiorespiratory fitness. The overweight young women had similar affect valence, arousal levels, and comparable pleasurable feelings to HIIT and MICT with LCs. Furthermore, as indicated by PACES, MICT was more enjoyable which may elicit better adherence, whereas HIIT with LCs seems to be more arduous despite its time-efficiency.