bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycocalyx Preservation and NO Production in Fatty Livers—The Protective Role of High Molecular Polyethylene Glycol in Cold Ischemia Injury
Authors: Lopez Alexandre , Panisello-Rosello Arnau , Castro-Benitez Carlos , Adam René
Published: August 2018

Improving the protection of marginal liver grafts during static cold storage is a major hurdle to increase the donor pool of organs. The endothelium glycocalyx quality of preservation influences future inflammatory and oxidative responses. One cellular pathway responsible for the formation of nitric oxide by endothelial cells is dependent on the stimulation of proteoglycans present in the glycocalyx. We investigated the impact of the glycocalyx preservation in static cold storage of fatty liver preserved in different preservation solutions on the endothelium-mediated production of NO. Zucker fatty rat livers were preserved 24 h in static cold storage in either Institut Georges Lopez-1 (IGL-1) (n = 10), IGL-0 (i.e., without PEG35) (n = 5) or Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK) (n = 10) preservation solutions before being processed for analysis. For Sham group (n = 5), the fatty livers were immediately analyzed after procurement. The level of transaminases and nitrites/nitrates were measured in the washing perfusate. Glycocalyx proteins expressions, Syndecan-1, glypican-1 and heparan sulfate (HS), were determined in the tissue (ELISA). Steatotic livers preserved 24 h in IGL-1 preservation solution have a significant lower level of transaminases (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT)) and less histological damages than steatotic livers preserved 24 h with HTK (p = 0.0152). The syndecan-1 is significantly better preserved in IGL-1 group compared to HTK (p < 0.0001) and we observed the same tendency compared to IGL-0. No significant differences were observed with glypican-1. HS expression in HTK group was significantly higher compared to the three other groups. HS level in IGL-1 was even lower than IGL-0 (p = 0.0005) which was similar to Sham group. The better protection of the glycocalyx proteins in IGL-1 group was correlated with a higher production of NO than HTK (p = 0.0055) or IGL-0 (p = 0.0433). IGL-1 protective mechanisms through the formation of NO could be due to its better protective effects on the glycocalyx during SCS compared to other preservation solutions. This beneficial effect could involve the preservation state of syndecan-1 and the internalization of HS.
The ATR-Activation Domain of TopBP1 Is Required for the Suppression of Origin Firing during the S Phase
Authors: Sokka Miiko , Koalick Dennis , Hemmerich Peter , Syväoja Juhani E. , Pospiech Helmut
Published: August 2018

The mammalian DNA replication program is controlled at two phases, the licensing of potential origins of DNA replication in early gap 1 (G1), and the selective firing of a subset of licenced origins in the synthesis (S) phase. Upon entry into the S phase, serine/threonine-protein kinase ATR (ATR) is required for successful completion of the DNA replication program by limiting unnecessary dormant origin activation. Equally important is its activator, DNA topoisomerase 2-binding protein 1 (TopBP1), which is also required for the initiation of DNA replication after a rise in S-phase kinase levels. However, it is unknown how the ATR activation domain of TopBP1 affects DNA replication dynamics. Using human cells conditionally expressing a TopBP1 mutant deficient for ATR activation, we show that functional TopBP1 is required in suppressing local dormant origin activation. Our results demonstrate a regulatory role for TopBP1 in the local balancing of replication fork firing within the S phase.
Antibody to Marinobufagenin Reverses Placenta-Induced Fibrosis of Umbilical Arteries in Preeclampsia
Authors: Fedorova Olga V. , Ishkaraeva Valentina V. , Grigorova Yulia N. , Reznik Vitaly A. , Kolodkin Nikolai I. , Zazerskaya Irina E. , Zernetkina Valentina , Agalakova Natalia I. , Tapilskaya Natalia I. , Adair C. David , Lakatta Edward G. , Bagrov Alexei Y.
Published: August 2018

Background: Previous studies implicated cardiotonic steroids, including Na/K-ATPase inhibitor marinobufagenin (MBG), in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE). Immunoneutralization of heightened MBG by Digibind, a digoxin antibody, reduces blood pressure (BP) in patients with PE, and anti-MBG monoclonal antibody lessens BP in a rat model of PE. Recently, we demonstrated that MBG induces fibrosis in cardiovascular tissues via a mechanism involving inhibition of Fli-1, a nuclear transcription factor and a negative regulator of collagen-1 synthesis. Objectives and Methods: We hypothesized that in PE, elevated placental MBG levels are associated with development of fibrosis in umbilical arteries. Eleven patients with PE (mean BP 124 ± 4 mmHg; age 29 ± 2 years; 39 weeks gest. age) and 10 gestational age-matched normal pregnant subjects (mean BP 92 ± 2 mmHg; controls) were enrolled in the clinical study. Results: PE was associated with a higher placental (0.04 ± 0.01 vs. 0.49 ± 0.11 pmol/g; p < 0.01) and plasma MBG (0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 1.6 ± 0.5 nmol/L; p < 0.01), lower Na/K-ATPase activity in erythrocytes (2.7 ± 0.2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.2 µmol Pi/mL/hr; p < 0.01), 9-fold decrease of Fli-1 level and 2.5-fold increase of collagen-1 in placentae (p < 0.01) vs. control. Incubation of umbilical arteries from control patients with 1 nmol/L MBG was associated with four-fold decrease in Fli-1 level and two-fold increase in collagen-1 level vs. those incubated with placebo (p < 0.01), i.e., physiological concentration of MBG mimicked effect of PE in vitro. Collagen-1 abundance in umbilical arteries from PE patients was 4-fold higher than in control arteries, and this PE-associated fibrosis was reversed by monoclonal anti-MBG antibody ex vivo. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that elevated placental MBG level is implicated in the development of fibrosis of the placenta and umbilical arteries in PE.
Targeted Therapies in Type II Endometrial Cancers: Too Little, but Not Too Late
Authors: Remmerie Michiel , Janssens Veerle
Published: August 2018

Type II endometrial carcinomas (ECs) are responsible for most endometrial cancer-related deaths due to their aggressive nature, late stage detection and high tolerance for standard therapies. However, there are no targeted therapies for type II ECs, and they are still treated the same way as the clinically indolent and easily treatable type I ECs. Therefore, type II ECs are in need of new treatment options. More recently, molecular analysis of endometrial cancer revealed phosphorylation-dependent oncogenic signalling in the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways to be most frequently altered in type II ECs. Consequently, clinical trials tested pharmacologic kinase inhibitors targeting these pathways, although mostly with rather disappointing results. In this review, we highlight the most common genetic alterations in type II ECs. Additionally, we reason why most clinical trials for ECs using targeted kinase inhibitors had unsatisfying results and what should be changed in future clinical trial setups. Furthermore, we argue that, besides kinases, phosphatases should no longer be ignored in clinical trials, particularly in type II ECs, where the tumour suppressive phosphatase protein phosphatase type 2A (PP2A) is frequently mutated. Lastly, we discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting PP2A for (re)activation, possibly in combination with pharmacologic kinase inhibitors.
Chronic Niche Inflammation in Endometriosis-Associated Infertility: Current Understanding and Future Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Lin Yi-Heng , Chen Ya-Hsin , Chang Heng-Yu , Au Heng-Kien , Tzeng Chii-Ruey , Huang Yen-Hua
Published: August 2018

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age and accounts for up to 50% of female infertility cases. It has been highly associated with poorer outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART), including decreased oocyte retrieval, lower implantation, and pregnancy rates. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of endometriosis-associated infertility is crucial for improving infertility treatment outcomes. Current theories regarding how endometriosis reduces fertility include anatomical distortion, ovulatory dysfunction, and niche inflammation-associated peritoneal or implantation defects. This review will survey the latest evidence on the role of inflammatory niche in the peritoneal cavity, ovaries, and uterus of endometriosis patients. Nonhormone treatment strategies that target these inflammation processes are also included. Furthermore, mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies are highlighted for potential endometriosis treatment because of their immunomodulatory effects and tropism toward inflamed lesion foci. Potential applications of stem cell therapy in treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility in particular for safety and efficacy are discussed.
Forecasting Electricity Consumption Using an Improved Grey Prediction Model
Authors: Li Kai , Zhang Tao
Published: August 2018

Prediction of electricity consumption plays critical roles in the economy. Accurate electricity consumption forecasting is essential for policy makers to formulate electricity supply policies. However, limited data and variables generally cannot provide sufficient information to gain satisfactory prediction accuracy. To address this problem, we propose a novel improved grey forecasting model, which combines data transformation for the original data sequence and combination interpolation optimization of the background value of the GM(1,1) model, and is therefore named DCOGM(1,1). To evaluate the simulation and prediction performance of DCOGM(1,1), two case studies are carried out. In addition, the results show that DCOGM(1,1) outperforms most existing improved grey models in terms of forecasting accuracy. Finally, DCOGM(1,1) is employed to predict the total electricity consumption of Shanghai City in China from 2017 to 2021. In addition, the results suggest that DCOGM(1,1) performs well compared with the traditional GM(1,1) model and other grey modification models in this context and Shanghai’s electricity consumption will increase stably in the following five years. In summary, DCOGM(1,1) proposed in our study has competent exploration and exploitation ability, and could be utilized as an effective and promising tool for short-term planning for other forecasting issues with limited source data as well.
Over-Wrapping of the Aortic Wall with an Elastic Extra-Aortic Wrap Results in Luminal Creasing
Authors: Legerer Christian , Almsherqi Zakaria A. , McLachlan Craig S.
Published: August 2018

Elastic extra-aortic wrapping is a potential non-pharmacological way to improve aortic compliance and treat isolated systolic hypertension associated with a stiffened aorta. We aimed to use computer simulations to re-evaluate whether there is aortic shape distortion in aortic wrapping to achieve greater elasticity of the wrapped aortic segment. Non-linear transient numerical analysis based on an idealized hyper-elastic single-layered aorta model was performed to simulate the force/displacement regimes of external aortic wrapping. Pressure-displacement relationships were used to establish model aortic wall distensibilities of 4.3 and 5.5 (10−3 mmHg−1). A physiological pulsatile lumen pressure was employed to estimate the potential improvements in aortic distensibility by compression forces representing elastic aortic wrapping. In the less distensible model of the aortic wall there was increased systolic expansion in the wrapped segment. We found a risk of creasing of the aortic luminal wall with wrapping. Sufficient unloading of a thick and elastic aortic wall to induce increased compliance, as observed in elastic wrapping, is associated with the potential risk of over compression and folding (creasing) inside the lumen.
From Contrary to Complementary Models: Central Places and Gateways in the South-Eastern Provence (Arles and Marseille)
Authors: Utz Gregor
Published: August 2018

This paper applies the concepts of gateways and centrality, formerly opposing approaches to spatial planning, by now a powerful merged tool for archaeologists, to understand the dynamics of the evolution of cities and settlements in a long-term perspective. The samples are the two main port cities in South-Eastern Provence (France), Marseille and Arles. By means of several archaeological markers it will be shown how natural landscapes and political control influenced the fate of the economic development of both cities in Greco-Roman times. Therefore, this study focuses on the aspects of trade and administration encompassing the functionality of the ports as trans-shipment centers, the impact of political interference as well as the supply and exchange of long distance and local/regional products. Within this research framework, Marseille emerged as a static gateway for its service area with a distinct perspective on Mediterranean trade. Arles, however, was the main gateway for the whole Rhône corridor in Roman times due to its strategic location in an area characterized by a variety of landscapes and the promotion of politics as a port of the annona. The data presented here aim to reject the frequently used narrative of an ongoing competition between Arles and Marseille in favor of a more nuanced picture of economic interactions and overlapping trading networks.
Wave Electromechanical Coupling Factor for the Guided Waves in Piezoelectric Composites
Authors: Fan Yu , Collet Manuel , Ichchou Mohamed , Bareille Olivier , Li Lin
Published: August 2018

A novel metrics termed the ‘wave electromechanical coupling factor’ (WEMCF) is proposed in this paper, to quantify the coupling strength between the mechanical and electric fields during the passage of a wave in piezoelectric composites. Two definitions of WEMCF are proposed, leading to a frequency formula and two energy formulas for the calculation of such a factor. The frequency formula is naturally consistent with the conventional modal electromechanical coupling factor (MEMCF) but the implementation is difficult. The energy formulas do not need the complicated wave matching required in the frequency formula, therefore are suitable for computing. We demonstrated that the WEMCF based on the energy formula is consistent with the MEMCF, provided that an appropriate indicator is chosen for the electric energy. In this way, both the theoretical closure and the computational feasibility are achieved. A numerical tool based on the wave and finite element method (WFEM) is developed to implement the energy formulas, and it allows the calculation of WEMCF for complex one-dimensional piezoelectric composites. A reduced model is proposed to accelerate the computing of the wave modes and the energies. The analytical findings and the reduced model are numerically validated against two piezoelectric composites with different complexity. Eventually an application is given, concerning the use of the shunted piezoelectric composite for vibration isolation. A strong correlation among the WEMCF, the geometric parameters and the energy transmission loss are observed. These results confirm that the proposed WEMCF captures the physics of the electromechanical coupling phenomenon associated with the guided waves, and can be used to understand, evaluate and design the piezoelectric composites for a variety of applications.
Preparation of a Highly Porous Carbon Material Based on Quinoa Husk and Its Application for Removal of Dyes by Adsorption
Authors: Chen Siji , Tang Shanshan , Sun Yang , Wang Gang , Chen Huan , Yu Xiaoxiao , Su Yingjie , Chen Guang
Published: August 2018

A porous carbon material was prepared from quinoa husk (QH) by carbonization and chemical activation with KOH. A series of experiments, including SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared), XRD (X-ray diffraction), Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and N2 adsorption/desorption, were carried out on the porous carbon produced from quinoa husk (PC–QH). The results showed that PC–QH was mainly composed of activated carbon and graphite. Moreover, PC–QH exhibited a high level of porosity with a BET (the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller theory) surface area of 1713 m2 g−1. As a representative dye, malachite green (MG) was selected to evaluate the performance of PC–QH to absorb the contaminants in dyeing wastewater. In batch adsorption experiments, PC–QH exhibited a high adsorption rate toward malachite green (MG). An uptake capacity of 599.90 mg g−1 was achieved in the initial 5 min, and the MG adsorption capacity of PC–QH reached 1365.10 mg g−1, which was higher than many other adsorbents. The adsorption data were well fitted with the Freundlich isotherm model and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. PC–QH also displayed a high absorption rate to rhodamine B (RhB), methyl violet (MV), methylene blue (MB), and methyl orange (MO). The results in this study suggest that PC–QH can be a promising adsorbent for quick treatment of dyeing wastewater.
Sequential Production of Levulinic Acid and Porous Carbon Material from Cellulose
Authors: Kang Shimin , Pan Jiaming , Gu Guoting , Wang Chong , Wang Zepan , Tan Jionghao , Liu Guiheng
Published: August 2018

A sequential production of levulinic acid (LA) and porous carbon material (CM) from cellulose was conducted by a two-step process. The cellulose was first acid hydrolyzed, and the preferred reaction conditions required a severity factor of 4.0–4.5, in which the yields of LA, formic acid, and solid residue were 38 ± 3 wt%, 17 ± 3 wt%, and 15 ± 3 wt%, respectively. The solid residue was further used for CM preparation through pyrolysis, with or without ZnCl2 activation. The ZnCl2 activation promoted the formation of CMs with improved thermal stability, high surface area (1184–2510 m2/g), and excellent phenol adsorption capacity (136–172 mg/g). The used CM can be easily regenerated by a simple methanol Soxhlet extraction process, and a comparable phenol adsorption capacity of 97 mg/g was maintained for the 5th reusing. Finally, 100 g cellulose produced 40.5 g LA, 18.9 g formic acid and 8.5 g porous CM, with a total carbon utilization ratio reaching 74.4%.
Contribution of Local Analysis Techniques for the Characterization of Iron and Alloying Elements in Nitrides: Consequences on the Precipitation Process in Fe–Si and Fe–Cr Nitrided Alloys
Authors: Van Landeghem Hugo P. , Danoix Raphaële , Gouné Mohamed , Bordère Sylvie , Martinavičius Andrius , Jessner Peter , Epicier Thierry , Hannoyer Béatrice , Danoix Frédéric , Redjaïmia Abdelkrim
Published: August 2018

Atom Probe Tomography (APT), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and 3D mechanical calculations in complex geometry and anisotropic strain fields were employed to study the role of minor elements in the precipitation process of silicon and chromium nitrides in nitrided Fe–Si and Fe–Cr alloys, respectively. In nitrided Fe–Si alloys, an original sequence of Si3N4 precipitation was highlighted. Al–N clusters form first and act as nucleation sites for amorphous Si3N4 nitrides. This novel example of particle-simulated nucleation opens a new way to control Si3N4 precipitation in Fe–Si alloys. In nitrided Fe–Cr alloys, both the presence of iron in chromium nitrides and excess nitrogen in the ferritic matrix are unquestionably proved. Only a certain part of the so-called excess nitrogen is shown to be explained by the elastic accommodation of the misfit between nitride and the ferritic matrix. The presence of immobile excess nitrogen trapped at interfaces can be highly suspected.
Microwave-Assisted Rapid Preparation of Nano-ZnO/Ag Composite Functionalized Polyester Nonwoven Membrane for Improving Its UV Shielding and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Shao Dongfeng , Wei Qufu
Published: August 2018

The cost and efficiency of preparing ZnO/Ag composite functional polyester membrane affect their application, for which a rapid microwave-assisted method was studied for coating ZnO/Ag composite nanoparticles on polyester nonwoven. The surface morphology, crystalline structure, and surface chemistry of the uncoated and coated polyester nonwoven was investigated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and thermogravimetric (TG), respectively. Washing stability, ultraviolet properties, and antibacterial properties of before and after treatment polyester nonwoven were also investigated. The results indicated that Ag/ZnO composite nanoparticles were successfully deposited on polyester nonwoven surface. The amount of silver nitrate added in reaction has an important effect on the morphology and structure of Ag/ZnO composite on the surface of polyester fiber. The washing experiment results show that the ZnO/Ag composite functional polyester nonwoven fabric prepared by this method exhibits good washing durability after 90 min of washing. The results of UV transmission analysis showed that polyester nonwoven has an obvious increase in ultraviolet resistant properties after Ag/ZnO composite coating. When 0.2 g of silver nitrate was added into 100 mL of the reaction solution, the mean ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of the treated polyester nonwoven reached a maximum of 219.8. The antibacterial results showed that the coated nonwoven against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was about 94.5% and 96.6%, respectively, showing very good antibacterial properties.
Numerical-Experimental Study of the Consolidation Phenomenon in the Selective Laser Melting Process with a Thermo-Fluidic Coupled Model
Authors: Cordovilla Francisco , García-Beltrán Ángel , Garzón Miguel , Muñoz Diego A. , Ocaña José L.
Published: August 2018

One of the main limiting factors for a widespread industrial use of the Selective Laser Melting Process it its lack of productivity, which restricts the use of this technology just for high added-value components. Typically, the thickness of the metallic powder that is used lies on the scale of micrometers. The use of a layer up to one millimeter would be necessarily associated to a dramatic increase of productivity. Nevertheless, when the layer thickness increases, the complexity of consolidation phenomena makes the process difficult to be governed. The present work proposes a 3D finite element thermo-coupled model to study the evolution from the metallic powder to the final consolidated material, analyzing specifically the movements and loads of the melt pool, and defining the behavior of some critical thermophysical properties as a function of temperature and the phase of the material. This model uses advanced numerical tools such as the Arbitrary Lagrangean–Eulerian formulation and the Automatic Remeshing technique. A series of experiments have been carried out, using a high thickness powder layer, allowing for a deeper understanding of the consolidation phenomena and providing a reference to compare the results of the numerical calculations.
Effect of Ammonium Halide Additives on the Performance of Methyl Amine Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Heo Do Yeon , Luo Zhengtang , Kim Soo Young
Published: August 2018

CH3NH3PbI3-xClx species were fabricated as light-absorbing layers for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), by employing NH4I, NH4Br, and NH4Cl as additives via annealing at 100 °C for different times. Solutions containing CH3NH3I, PbI2, and PbCl2 (4:1:1 molar ratio) in N,N-dimethylformamide were used to prepare perovskites with NH4I, NH4Br, and NH4Cl as additives, at concentrations of 0.1 M and 0.3 M. The additives helped increase the grain size and reduce pinholes in the perovskite films, as confirmed by field-emission scanning electron microscopy. The X-ray diffraction profiles of CH3NH3PbI3-xClx clearly showed peaks at 14° and 28° for the samples with additives, indicative of crystallinity. The best PSC performance with a power conversion efficiency of 9.13%, was achieved using 0.1 M NH4I by annealing for 5 min, whereas the power conversion efficiency of the perovskite solar cells without additives was 5.40%.
Delamination Study in Edge Trimming of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Plastics (BFRP)
Authors: Navarro-Mas Maria Dolores , García-Manrique Juan Antonio , Meseguer Maria Desamparados , Ordeig Isabel , Sánchez Ana Isabel
Published: August 2018

Although there are many machining studies of carbon and glass fiber reinforced plastics, delamination and tool wear of basalt fiber reinforced plastics (BFRP) in edge trimming has not yet studied. This paper presents an end milling study of BFRP fabricated by resin transfer molding (RTM), to evaluate delamination types at the top layer of the machined edge with different cutting conditions (cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut) and fiber volume fraction (40% and 60%). This work quantifies delamination types, using a parameter Sd/L, that evaluates the delamination area (Sd) and the length (L), taking into account tool position in the yarn and movement of yarns during RTM process, which show the random nature of delamination. Delamination was present in all materials with 60% of fiber volume. High values of tool wear did not permit to machine the material due to an excessive delamination. Type II delamination was the most usual delamination type and depth of cut has influence on this type of delamination.
The Effect of Spot Size Combination Mode on Ablation Morphology of Aluminum Alloy by Millisecond-Nanosecond Combined-Pulse Laser
Authors: Yuan Bo-Shi , Zhang Ye , Zhang Wei , Dong Yuan , Jin Guang-Yong
Published: August 2018

Ablation morphology affects the quality of laser processing. Therefore, the control of ablation morphology is very important. The influence of spot size combination mode on the ablation morphology of aluminum alloy is studied for the first time. Experimental results show that when the nanosecond laser spot is larger, the ablation morphology looks like a bowl-shape, and there is little solidification near the edge. When the nanosecond laser spot is smaller, the shape of the ablation morphology is similar to a hole, and the protuberance is formed near the edge of the cavity. Through the analysis and simulation of the physical model, the physical mechanism, which describes the influence of the spot size combination mode on the molten pool, is discussed. The research results of this paper have important guiding significance for the control of laser processing effect.
Pharmacologic Treatment Options for Insomnia in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Stummer Lauren , Markovic Marija , Maroney Megan
Published: August 2018

Background: Symptoms of sleep disorders, such as disturbances in sleep initiation and continuity, are commonly reported in patients with schizophrenia, especially in the acute phase of illness. Studies have shown that up to 80% of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia report symptoms of insomnia. Sleep disturbances have been shown to increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction and relapse in patients with schizophrenia. Currently, there are no medications approved specifically for the treatment of insomnia in patients with schizophrenia. Methods: A literature search was performed through OVID and PubMed to compile publications of pharmacotherapy options studied to treat insomnia in patients with schizophrenia. Articles were reviewed from 1 January 2000 through 1 March 2018 with some additional earlier articles selected if deemed by the authors to be particularly relevant. Results: Pharmacotherapies collected from the search results that were reviewed and evaluated included melatonin, eszopiclone, sodium oxybate, and antipsychotics. Conclusions: Overall, this review confirmed that there are a few evidence-based options to treat insomnia in patients with schizophrenia, including selecting a more sedating second-generation antipsychotic such as paliperidone, or adding melatonin or eszopiclone. Further randomized controlled trials are needed.
Antioxidant Activity of Myrtus communis L. and Myrtus nivellei Batt. & Trab. Extracts: A Brief Review
Authors: Hennia Aicha , Miguel Maria Graça , Nemmiche Said
Published: August 2018

Myrtus communis L. (myrtle) and Myrtus nivellei Batt. & Trab. (Saharan myrtle) have been used in folk medicine for alleviating some ailments. M. communis is largely distributed in the Mediterranean Basin, whereas M. nivellei is confined in specific zones of the central Saharan mountains. The chemical composition and antioxidant activity of berry and leaf extracts isolated from myrtle are deeply documented, whereas those isolated from Saharan myrtle extracts are less studied. In both species, the major groups of constituents include gallic acid derivatives, flavonols, flavonol derivatives, and hydroxybenzoic acids. In coloured berries, anthocyanins are also present. In M. nivellei extracts are reported for some compounds not described in M. communis so far: 2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole-β-d-glucopyranoside, 2-hydroxy-1,8-cineole 2-O-α-l-arabinofuranosyl (1→6)-β-d-glucopyranoside, rugosin A, and rugosin B. Berries and leaves extracts of both species had antioxidant activity. Comparative studies of the antioxidant activity between leaf and berry myrtle extracts revealed that leaf extracts are best antioxidants, which can be assigned to the galloyl derivatives, flavonols, and flavonols derivatives, although the ratio of these groups of compounds might also have an important role in the antioxidant activity. The anthocyanins present in myrtle berries seem to possess weak antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of sample extracts depended on various factors: harvesting time, storage, extraction solvent, extraction type, and plant part used, among other factors. Leaf extracts of myrtle revealed to possess anti-inflammatory activity in several models used. This property has been attributed either to the flavonoids and/or hydrolysable tannins, nevertheless nonprenylated acylphloroglucinols (e.g., myrtucommulone and semimyrtucommulone) have also revealed a remarkable role in that activity. The biological activities of myrtle extracts found so far may direct its use towards for stabilizing complex lipid systems, as prebiotic in food formulations, and as novel therapeutic for the management of inflammation.
Cell Therapy in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis†
Authors: Serrano-Mollar Anna
Published: August 2018

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal disease with no effective or curative treatment options. In recent decades, cell-based therapies using stem cells or lung progenitor cells to regenerate lung tissue have experienced rapid growth in both preclinical animal models and translational clinical studies. In this review, the current knowledge of these cell therapies is summarized. Although further investigations are required, these studies indicate that cell therapies are a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Diversity of Myxobacteria—We Only See the Tip of the Iceberg
Authors: Mohr Kathrin I.
Published: August 2018

The discovery of new antibiotics is mandatory with regard to the increasing number of resistant pathogens. One approach is the search for new antibiotic producers in nature. Among actinomycetes, Bacillus species, and fungi, myxobacteria have been a rich source for bioactive secondary metabolites for decades. To date, about 600 substances could be described, many of them with antibacterial, antifungal, or cytostatic activity. But, recent cultivation-independent studies on marine, terrestrial, or uncommon habitats unequivocally demonstrate that the number of uncultured myxobacteria is much higher than would be expected from the number of cultivated strains. Although several highly promising myxobacterial taxa have been identified recently, this so-called Great Plate Count Anomaly must be overcome to get broader access to new secondary metabolite producers. In the last years it turned out that especially new species, genera, and families of myxobacteria are promising sources for new bioactive metabolites. Therefore, the cultivation of the hitherto uncultivable ones is our biggest challenge.
New Outlier Top-Cut Method for Mineral Resource Estimation via 3D Hot Spot Analysis of Borehole Data
Authors: Kim Sung-Min , Choi Yosoon , Park Hyeong-Dong
Published: August 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) analysis of borehole data is very important for effective mineral exploration. It can be used not only to understand the geological structure of the underground, but to estimate the amount of the resource. In the mining industry, the geostatistical interpolation, such as kriging, is widely used to predict the value of a whole section using this borehole data. In order to obtain reasonable prediction results, it is firstly necessary to verify assay and geological databases. In addition, if the assayed grade data deviates significantly from the average value, it is necessary to perform the prediction including the outlier top-cut because it may excessively affect the predicted value. However, the existing top-cut methods of determining a specific threshold value may cause an error by excluding significant data. In this study, to minimize the loss of such data, we developed a 3D hot spot analysis technique to analyze statistically significant outliers. In addition, it was applied to borehole data analysis of the Au deposit. As a result, we confirmed that the proposed method can mitigate the overestimation or underestimation that might occur when applying the existing methods.
Role of DTAB and SDS in Bubble-Particle Attachment: AFM Force Measurement, Attachment Behaviour Visualization, and Contact Angle Study
Authors: Xing Yaowen , Xu Mengdi , Li Ming , Jin Wei , Cao Yijun , Gui Xiahui
Published: August 2018

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and contact angle measurements were used to study the role of dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) in bubble-particle attachment. The results show that the forces between bubbles and the hydrophilic glass particle were always repulsive in the absence of DTAB and SDS. An attractive hydrophobic force was induced when the particles became hydrophobic, and the force was proportional to the water contact-angle. In the presence of DTAB and SDS, the cationic head group of DTAB adsorbed onto the negative hydrophilic glass surface as a monolayer and thus induced a hydrophobic force. However, at a high DTAB concentration, the DTAB molecules began to adsorb as a bilayer, reverting back to a hydrophilic surface. The hydrophobic force disappeared and the water film between the bubble and particle was stabilised under the repulsive double-layer force. The anionic SDS molecules could not adsorb onto the hydrophilic glass surface. The repulsive force always dominated the bubble-particle interaction. In the case of hydrophobic glass, the hydrophobic force decreased, and even disappeared, with the addition of DTAB and SDS. All the findings from the AFM force curves were consistent with the attachment behaviour and contact angle results.
Investigation of Position Sensing and Energy Harvesting of a Flexible Triboelectric Touch Pad
Authors: Chen Tao , Shi Qiongfeng , Li Kunpu , Yang Zhan , Liu Huicong , Sun Lining , Dziuban Jan A. , Lee Chengkuo
Published: August 2018

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a promising technology because it can harvest energy from the environment to enable self-sustainable mobile and wearable electronic devices. In this work, we present a flexible touch pad capable of detecting the contact location of an object and generating substantial energy simultaneously based on the coupling of triboelectric effects and electrostatic induction. The touch pad consists of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) thin film, multiple Aluminum (Al) electrodes and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layers, which can be achieved through low cost, simplified and scalable fabrication process. Different from the conventional multi-pixel-based positioning sensor (i.e., large array of sensing elements and electrodes), the analogue method proposed here is used to implement the positioning function with only four electrodes. Position location can achieve a detecting resolution of as small as 1.3 mm (the size of locating layer is 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm). For the energy harvesting part, a multilayer structure is designed to provide higher current output. The open circuit voltage of the device is around 420 V and the short circuit current can reach up to 6.26 µA with current density of 0.25 µA/cm2. The maximum output power obtained is approximately 10 mW, which is 0.4 mW/cm2. The flexibility and significantly reduced number of electrodes enable the proposed touch pad to be readily integrated into portable electronic devices, such as intelligent robots, laptops, healthcare devices, and environmental surveys, etc.
Ultraviolet Irradiation of Skin Alters the Faecal Microbiome Independently of Vitamin D in Mice
Authors: Ghaly Simon , Kaakoush Nadeem O. , Lloyd Frances , Gordon Lavinia , Forest Cynthia , Lawrance Ian C. , Hart Prue H.
Published: August 2018

Reduced sunlight exposure has been associated with an increased incidence of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The effect of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on the faecal microbiome and susceptibility to colitis has not been explored. C57Bl/6 female mice were fed three different vitamin D-containing diets for 24 days before half of the mice in each group were UV-irradiated (1 kJ/m2) for each of four days, followed by twice-weekly irradiation of shaved dorsal skin for 35 days. Faecal DNA was extracted and high-throughput sequencing of the 16S RNA gene performed. UV irradiation of skin was associated with a significant change in the beta-diversity of faeces compared to nonirradiated mice, independently of vitamin D. Specifically, members of phylum Firmicutes, including Coprococcus, were enriched, whereas members of phylum Bacteroidetes, such as Bacteroidales, were depleted. Expression of colonic CYP27B1 increased by four-fold and IL1β decreased by five-fold, suggesting a UVR-induced anti-inflammatory effect. UV-irradiated mice, however, were not protected against colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), although distinct faecal microbiome differences were documented post-DSS between UV-irradiated and nonirradiated mice. Thus, skin exposure to UVR alters the faecal microbiome, and further investigations to explore the implications of this in health and disease are warranted.
Effects of Adherence to a Higher Protein Diet on Weight Loss, Markers of Health, and Functional Capacity in Older Women Participating in a Resistance-Based Exercise Program
Authors: Galbreath Melyn , Campbell Bill , La Bounty Paul , Bunn Jennifer , Dove Jacqueline , Harvey Travis , Hudson Geoffrey , Gutierrez Jean , Levers Kyle , Galvan Elfego , Jagim Andrew , Greenwood Lori , Cooke Matthew , Greenwood Mike , Rasmussen Chris , Kreider Richard
Published: August 2018

Resistance training and maintenance of a higher protein diet have been recommended to help older individuals maintain muscle mass. This study examined whether adherence to a higher protein diet while participating in a resistance-based exercise program promoted more favorable changes in body composition, markers of health, and/or functional capacity in older females in comparison to following a traditional higher carbohydrate diet or exercise training alone with no diet intervention. In total, 54 overweight and obese females (65.9 ± 4.7 years; 78.7 ± 11 kg, 30.5 ± 4.1 kg/m2, 43.5 ± 3.6% fat) were randomly assigned to an exercise-only group (E), an exercise plus hypo-energetic higher carbohydrate (HC) diet, or a higher protein diet (HP) diet. Participants followed their respective diet plans and performed a supervised 30-min circuit-style resistance exercise program 3 d/wk. Participants were tested at 0, 10, and 14 weeks. Data were analyzed using univariate, multivariate, and repeated measures general linear model (GLM) statistics as well as one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of changes from baseline with [95% confidence intervals]. Results revealed that after 14 weeks, participants in the HP group experienced significantly greater reductions in weight (E −1.3 ± 2.3, [−2.4, −0.2]; HC −3.0 ± 3.1 [−4.5, −1.5]; HP −4.8 ± 3.2, [−6.4, −3.1]%, p = 0.003), fat mass (E −2.7 ± 3.8, [−4.6, −0.9]; HC −5.9 ± 4.2 [−8.0, −3.9]; HP −10.2 ± 5.8 [−13.2, –7.2%], p < 0.001), and body fat percentage (E −2.0 ± 3.5 [−3.7, −0.3]; HC −4.3 ± 3.2 [−5.9, −2.8]; HP −6.3 ± 3.5 [−8.1, −4.5] %, p = 0.002) with no significant reductions in fat-free mass or resting energy expenditure over time or among groups. Significant differences were observed in leptin (E −1.8 ± 34 [−18, 14]; HC 43.8 ± 55 [CI 16, 71]; HP −26.5 ± 70 [−63, −9.6] ng/mL, p = 0.001) and adiponectin (E 43.1 ± 76.2 [6.3, 79.8]; HC −27.9 ± 33.4 [−44.5, −11.3]; HP 52.3 ± 79 [11.9, 92.8] µg/mL, p = 0.001). All groups experienced significant improvements in muscular strength, muscular endurance, aerobic capacity, markers of balance and functional capacity, and several markers of health. These findings indicate that a higher protein diet while participating in a resistance-based exercise program promoted more favorable changes in body composition compared to a higher carbohydrate diet in older females.
The Vitamin K Metabolome in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Turner Mandy E. , Adams Michael A. , Holden Rachel M.
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this review is to summarize the research to date on the impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on the vitamin K metabolome. Vitamin K-dependent proteins contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention via the prevention of ectopic mineralization. Sub-clinical vitamin K deficiency is common in CKD patients, and evidence suggests that it may contribute to the CVD burden in this population. Research from animal models suggests that CKD alters tissue measures of the two predominant forms of vitamin K: KI and MK-4. The expression and/or activity of enzymes that regulate the recycling of vitamin K and the carboxylation of vitamin K-dependent proteins also appear to be altered in CKD. Evidence suggests that statins, a common pharmaceutical prescribed to CKD patients to prevent cardiovascular events, may impact the metabolism of vitamin K and therefore contribute to its relative inefficiency at preventing CVD in this population as kidney disease progresses. Human research on the tissue vitamin K metabolome in CKD patients is lacking.
Stealth and Cationic Nanoliposomes as Drug Delivery Systems to Increase Andrographolide BBB Permeability
Authors: Piazzini Vieri , Landucci Elisa , Graverini Giulia , Pellegrini-Giampietro Domenico E. , Bilia Anna Rita , Bergonzi Maria Camilla
Published: August 2018

(1) Background: Andrographolide (AG) is a natural compound effective for the treatment of inflammation-mediated neurodegenerative disorders. The aim of this investigation was the preparation of liposomes to enhance the penetration into the brain of AG, by modifying the surface of the liposomes by adding Tween 80 (LPs-AG) alone or in combination with Didecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB) (CLPs-AG). (2) Methods: LPs-AG and CLPs-AG were physically and chemically characterized. The ability of liposomes to increase the permeability of AG was evaluated by artificial membranes (PAMPA) and hCMEC/D3 cells. (3) Results: Based on obtained results in terms of size, homogeneity, ζ-potential and EE%. both liposomes are suitable for parenteral administration. The systems showed excellent stability during a month of storage as suspensions or freeze-dried products. Glucose resulted the best cryoprotectant agent. PAMPA and hCMEC/D3 transport studies revealed that LPs-AG and CLPs-AG increased the permeability of AG, about an order of magnitude, compared to free AG without alterations in cell viability. The caveolae-mediated endocytosis resulted the main mechanism of up-take for both formulations. The presence of positive charge increased the cellular internalization of nanoparticles. (4) Conclusions: This study shows that developed liposomes might be ideal candidates for brain delivery of AG.
Tomato ATP-Binding Cassette Transporter SlABCB4 Is Involved in Auxin Transport in the Developing Fruit
Authors: Ofori Peter Amoako , Geisler Markus , Di Donato Martin , Pengchao Hao , Otagaki Shungo , Matsumoto Shogo , Shiratake Katsuhiro
Published: August 2018

Plant ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters are membrane proteins that are important for transporting a wide range of compounds, including secondary metabolites and phytohormones. In Arabidopsis, some members of the ABCB subfamily of ABC transporter, also known as Multi-Drug Resistance proteins (MDRs), have been implicated in auxin transport. However, reports on the roles of the auxin-mediated ABCBs in fleshy fruit development are rare. Here, we present that SlABCB4, a member of the tomato ABCB subfamily, transports auxin in the developing fruit of tomato. Transient expression of SlABCB4-GFP fusion proteins in tobacco cells showed plasma membrane localization. The transport activity of SlABCB4, expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana protoplasts, revealed substrate specificity for indole-3-acetic acid export. Gene expression analysis of SlABCB4 revealed high expression levels at the early stages of fruit development. Therefore, SlABCB4 is considered to facilitate auxin distribution in tomato fruit, which is important for tomato fruit development.
Preparation of Polyimide/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite and Its Application to Nonvolatile Resistive Memory Device
Authors: Choi Ju-Young , Yu Hwan-Chul , Lee Jeongjun , Jeon Jihyun , Im Jaehyuk , Jang Junhwan , Jin Seung-Won , Kim Kyoung-Kook , Cho Soohaeng , Chung Chan-Moon
Published: August 2018

2,6-Diaminoanthracene (AnDA)-functionalized graphene oxide (GO) (AnDA-GO) was prepared and used to synthesize a graphene oxide-based polyimide (PI-GO) by the in-situ polymerization method. A PI-GO nanocomposite thin film was prepared and characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and UV-visible spectroscopy. The PI-GO film was used as a memory layer in the fabrication of a resistive random access memory (RRAM) device with aluminum (Al) top and indium tin oxide (ITO) bottom electrodes. The device showed write-once-read-many-times (WORM) characteristics with a high ON/OFF current ratio (Ion/Ioff = 3.41 × 108). This excellent current ratio was attributed to the high charge trapping ability of GO. In addition, the device had good endurance until the 100th cycle. These results suggest that PI-GO is an attractive candidate for applications in next generation nonvolatile memory.
Dentine Surface Morphology after Chlorhexidine Application—SEM Study
Authors: Lapinska Barbara , Klimek Leszek , Sokolowski Jerzy , Lukomska-Szymanska Monika
Published: August 2018

Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a widely known and a very popular antibacterial agent that decreases the level of cariogenic bacteria. CHX applied on the cavity surface of dentine may influence adhesive bond strength. The aim of the study was to evaluate the dentine surface after different chlorhexidine digluconate (CHG) application protocols. Different CHG application protocols were introduced. A concentration of 0.2% or 2.0% CHG was applied on the etched or unetched dentine surface for 15 or 30 s, then water rinsed or drained. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations and energy disperse spectrometer (EDS) analysis of the dentine surfaces were performed. The application of 0.2% CHG for 15 s, followed by draining, on either etched or unetched dentine surface effectively removed the smear layer, leaving the surface enriched with CHG deposits. Conclusions: The concentration of CHG and its application time influenced the amount of CHG deposits and the degree of smear layer removal from the dentine surface.