bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI PERTUMBUHAN LABA BANK UMUM SYARIAH DI INDONESIA
Authors: Suryani Yani , Ika Desi
Published: December 2019

This study aims to know the effect of the determinant variables on profit growth in Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia. During the period of financial crisis in 1997 Islamic banks were still able to show relatively better performance compared to conventional banking institutions. Due to the lower distribution of non-performing loans (non-performing loans) to the Islamic banks and no negative spreads in their operational activities, this condition as well as profit growth generated by Islamic banks. This study analyzes the effect of Net Operational Income (NOI), Third Party Funds (DPK), Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Non Performing Financing (NPF), Financing to Deposit Ratio (FDR), and operational costs to operational income (BOPO) both partially or simultaneously on the Profit Growth of Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia in the 2016-2018 period. The type of research is associative, secondary data sources and data are analyzed quantitatively. The results of this study indicate that partially Net Operating Income (NOI) affects the profit growth of Islamic Commercial Banks in Indonesia. For simultaneous testing the overall determinant variable does not affect earnings growth at Islamic Commercial Banks in Indonesia.
Fatigue life evaluation of composite wing spar cap materials
Authors: Trappe Volker
Published: December 2019

An effective method for evaluating the fatigue strength of thick unidirectional composite laminates of wing spar caps has been presented here. A typical width-tapered bending specimen has been developed for a four-point loading set up. Static and fatigue loading was performed at a load ratio R = ‒1. The complex stress state has been investigated numerically by finite element analysis. Finally, the concept is proven experimentally on specimens made of pultruded fibre rods. The fatigue behavior of the continuously tapered width by water jet cutting has been compared to discrete tapering via rod-drop. The new method enables a screening of material fatigue behavior caused by normal and shear loading.
Effect of inoculant type and treatment material quantity on properties of vermicular graphite cast iron rail vehicle brake discs
Authors: Er Onur , Kaluc Erdinc , Taban Emel , Ozsarac Ugur
Published: December 2019

This paper examines the effects of inoculant type and treatment material quantity on the mechanical and thermal properties of rail vehicle brake discs manufactured from vermicular graphite cast iron/compacted graphite iron (CGI). The in-mold treatment technique was employed in manufacturing the CGI brake discs. The main and interaction effects of inoculant type and treatment material quantity parameters affecting the tensile strength of the CGI brake discs were determined. The results indicate that treatment material quantity has the most significant effect on mechanical properties. Tensile strength was observed to increase as the treatment material quantity increased. The optimum level for manufacturing the CGI brake disc by using the in-mold treatment technique was attained via the combination of SB 5-type inoculant and 625 g treatment material quantity.
LIFE CYCLE COST ANALYSIS OF A PBC PILOT PROJECT FOR ROAD IN INDONESIA
Authors: Susanti Betty , Wirahadikusumah Reini D , Soemardi Biemo W , Sutrisno Mei
Published: December 2019

Implementation of Performance-based Contracts (PBC) for road maintenance in Indonesia still requires various studies, especially related to potential long-term cost efficiencies that can be achieved by the road agencies by shifting the application of traditional contracts to PBC. This study assesses the effectiveness of PBC compared to traditional contract implementation based on a case study on one of the PBC pilot projects in Indonesia. The effectiveness of the PBC reviews in terms of project life cycle cost efficiency was calculated. LCC calculations were conducted by considering the influence of the length of contracted road, the initial conditions of contracted road, and the duration of PBC project. The LCC calculation shows that the implementation of PBC generally has the potential to generate LCC efficiency compared to the traditional contract. This study also proved that the implementation of PBC can guarantee the performance of road services during multi-year contracts and also provide other benefits for the road agency and road users.

ABSTRAK: Pelaksanaan Kontrak Berasaskan Prestasi (PBC) bagi penyelenggaraan jalan di Indonesia masih memerlukan pelbagai kajian, terutama berkaitan potensi keberkesanan perbelanjaan jangka panjang yang dapat dicapai oleh pihak agensi jalan dengan mengalihkan penerapan kontrak tradisional ke PBC. Kajian ini menilai keberkesanan PBC berbanding dengan pelaksanaan kontrak tradisional berdasarkan kajian kes pada salah satu projek perintis PBC di Indonesia. Keberkesanan ulasan PBC ini adalah dari segi kecekapan kos kitaran hayat projek. Pengiraan LCC dilakukan dengan mempertimbangkan pengaruh panjang jalan yang dikontrak, keadaan awal jalan terkontrak, dan jangka waktu projek PBC. Pengiraan LCC menunjukkan bahawa pelaksanaan PBC secara amnya berpotensi untuk menghasilkan kecekapan LCC berbanding dengan kontrak tradisional. Kajian ini juga membuktikan bahawa pelaksanaan PBC dapat menjamin prestasi perkhidmatan jalan selama kontrak multi-tahun dan juga memberi manfaat lain untuk agensi jalan dan pengguna jalan raya.
Graviola in Metastatic Ovarian Cancer: A Case Report of Sustained Disease Stability
Authors: Duong Pham Thi Thuy , Beale Philip , Syed Sarah , Duong Pham Thi Thuy
Published: December 2019

Treatments for metastatic ovarian cancer to date have been limited by advanced stages at diagnosis,
drug toxicity and resistance. Cancer patients are also increasingly looking towards complementary
and alternative therapies. Graviola (Annona muricata) has traditionally been used in many conditions
including cancer, and both in vivo and in vitro studies have shown evidence of anti-cancer effects.
We present a case of a patient with metastatic ovarian cancer who progressed through multiple lines
of chemotherapy but had a response and sustained stability in Ca-125 levels whilst taking graviola
tablets. Further clinical research is warranted to evaluate graviola’s role in cancer therapy.
SPHINCTEROPLASTY IN THE TREATMENT OF ANAL INCONTINENCE ON THE BASIS OF NECROTIZING FASCIITIS
Authors: Kanikovskyi O. E. , Osadchyi A. V. , Kotsyura O. A. , Tomashevskyi A. V. , Zarezenko T. P.
Published: December 2019

Incontinence of intestinal contents is a serious disease that gives patients strong emotional and psychological feelings leading to social self-isolation, unsuitability and disability of the population. From an analysis of scientific research, it is known that more than 30% of coloproctologic operations are complicated by insufficiency of the sphincter apparatus and lead to anal incontinence.

The purpose of the study - to improve the results of treatment for anal incontinence.

Material and methods. 44 patients with perineal NF were analyzed. Patients were treated in the surgical clinic of the Faculty of Medicine No. 2 of VNMU and Vinnitsa City Clinical Hospital of Emergency Medical Services from 2010 to 2018. The average age is 59.0±8.72 years (26-80). There are 11 women and 33 men. Age <20 - 0, 21-29 – 1 (2.27%), 30-39 – 2 (4.54%), 40-49 – 7 (15.9%), 50-59 – 10 (22.74%), >60 years old – 24 (54.5%).

Results and their discussion. The development of postoperative anal incontinence was identified in 13 (29,5%) patients. An anal incontinence scale (Wexner) was used to verify the diagnosis of anal canal failure. The surgical treatment technique was performed both in patiently in 4 (9.0%) patients and on an outpatient basis in 4 (9.0%). With cicatricial changes in the anal canal, the rumen was excised, the sphincter edges were mobilized, allograft implantation and sphincteroplasty were performed. Narrowing the anal canal is a less traumatic method that can be performed on an outpatient basis and in hospitals of one day. After surgery, patients independently retain gases and feces.

Conclusions. Patients with NF requiring immediate surgical treatment. Anal incontinence on the basis of the transferred NF leads to disability. The narrowing of the anal canal using a mesh transplant is minimally invasive, characterized by a mild postoperative course.Sphincteroplasty is possible to carry out stationary and on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Restoration of the function of the sphincter apparatus in 100% of the operated patients on the Wexner scale, which improves the level of physical and social life of patients.
ASSESSMENT OF ALCOHOL USE BY POPULATION AND RELATED PROBLEMS
Authors: Zamkevich V. B. , Diachuk M. D. , Gruzieva T. S.
Published: December 2019

Introduction. The development of the public health system provides for the solution of the basic operational functions of public health, including surveillance and assessment of the state of health and well-being of the population, taking into account risks to public health.Given the importance of alcohol as a risk factor for the development of diseases, the study of its prevalence in the population, consumption patterns and health effects is an important public health problem.

The aim of the study. To identify current trends in alcohol consumption and the associated risk factor for health damage in Ukraine and countries of the WHO European Region.Materials and methods. Bibliographic, medical, statistical and information-analytical methods were used in the study. The key  scientific base were the European Health for All Database, the Global Information System on Alcohol and Health (GISAH) and the European Information System on Alcohol and Health (EISAH).

Results. Significant differences were found in the prevalence of alcohol consumption by population in different regions of the world per capita per year, up to 16 times, with the highest rates in the WHO ER. Ukraine is characterized by high levels of alcohol consumption (8.6 liters) and negative tendencies for their growth during 1991-2016 by 45.8%. At the same time, in Ukraine the consumption of strong alcoholic drinks predominates, while in the countries of the European Union - wine and beer. The increase in alcohol consumption in Ukraine and the prevalence of strong drinks in the structure of consumed products (51.5%) is an unfavorable prognostic indicator and requires the adoption of preventive measures. The negative consequences of alcohol consumption are the prevalence of alcohol dependence (2.2%), alcohol-related disorders (6%), a significant proportion of deaths (20.5%) due to this risk factor in the overall structure of all deaths, etc. Significant is the contribution of alcohol to the formation of indicators of road traffic injuries, including those with a fatal outcome, crime rates, etc.

Conclusions. Surveillance of the prevalence of alcohol use, patterns of consumption and assessment of alcohol-related public health problems is an important basis for determining directions, justification and taking countermeasures.
PID Control for Temperature and Motor Speed Based on PLC
Authors: Al Andzar Muhammad Faqihuddin , Puriyanto Riky Dwi
Published: December 2019

Transesterification process of used cooking oil to biodiesel need heating and mixing of ingredients and catalyst at temperature of 30-65oC and stirring speed of 700 rpm for 60 minutes. This research builds a prototype of biodiesel reactor control system to control those process automatically. The system is built using heater element, LM35DZ temperature sensor, DC motor to drive the stirrer, and rotary encoder sensor. PLC OMRON CP1E NA20DR-A is used as system controller by using PID algorithm. The results of this research shows that this system works well as expected. Test results of motor speed control shows, at 700 rpm set point this system gives stable response at 100 % Proportional band, 1,6 s Integral, and 0,2 derivative PID parameters, the system at this setting gives fast rise time and have small overshoot. Test result of temperature control shows, at 60oC set point this system works well at 1% proportional band, 400 s integral, and 0 s derivative PID parameters, the system at this setting gives fast rise time and stable steady state.
DECREASED PAIN SCALE BASED ON CRITICAL PAIN OBSERVATION TOOL (CPOT) AND BEHAVIORAL PAIN SCALE NON-INTUBATED (BPS-NI) IN PATIENTS WITH REDUCED CONSCIOUSNESS BY CLASSICAL MUSIC INTERVENTION IN UNS HOSPITAL
Authors: Hanafi Muchtar , Muhammad Faizal , Wiyono Nanang , Saptiwi Betty
Published: December 2019

Patient with reduced consciousness needs attention to their comfort as well as pain during treatment. Listening to classical music caused relaxation and pain reduction. This study aimed to determine the effect of classical music on the CPOT score, BPS-NI, and cortisol levels in patients with reduced consciousness. The research was conducted by using a pretest-posttest control group design. 18 patients were divided into the control group (C) and the classical music group (M). Classical music was played for 3 days respectively that consisted of 3 sessions per day. Furthermore, each patient was tested for cortisol levels on the third day. Comparative test of mean difference between pre-intervention and post-intervention obtained significant results in CPOT (p=Â 0.000) and BPS-NI (p=Â 0.001) measurements in all groups. Tukey's post-hoc test obtained significant results in which the M group had a lower mean score. The mean of cortisol level was higher in M group (14.7 Î¼g/dL) compared to the C group (12.96 Î¼g/dL), although not significant statistically (p=Â 0.67). Listening to classical music for patients with reduced consciousness decreased the pain scale. This was supported by the average of cortisol levels that were higher in the M group, considering that cortisol was a hormone that prevents pain.
COMPARATIVE HEMOGLOBIN AND HEMATOCRIT BEFORE AND AFTER DONATION TO BLOOD DONATE IN UNIT TRANSFUSION YOGYAKARTA CITY
Authors: Astuti Yuli , Artini Dyah
Published: December 2019

Blood is one of the main components in the human body. The people's need for blood is high, therefore the blood service in Indonesia should have good quality and total services. Unit Transfusion Yogyakarta City is one of the good services in the blood donation. In the blood donation, examination hemoglobin and hematocrit are important to selection for donors.Â The aim of this study is to determine comparative in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels before and after donors in UTD PMI Yogyakarta City.Â The type of research used was experimental with cross sectional research design. The sampling technique used was accidental sampling with a total sample of 67 donors.Â Based on the results of statistical tests on the data obtained, the results obtained with p value less than 0,05 which is significantly different between the hemoglobin level before and after the donor.Â Based on these result there were differences in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels before and after of blood donation in Unit Transfusion PMI Yogyakarta City.
ANTIBACTERIAL ASSAY OF 2â€™-HYDROXY-4â€™,6â€™,4-TRIMETHOXYCHALCONE AND 4-METHOXYCHALCONE AGAINST GRAM POSITIVE AND GRAM NEGATIVE BACTERIA
Authors: Sepvianti Wiwit , Kusumaningrum Serafica Btari Christiyani
Published: December 2019

Blood transfusion is currently one of the most important health care treatments. Unfortunately, the prevalence of transfusion reactions caused by the use of blood products is still quite high although blood products have been tested in terms of infectious diseases using 4 parameters, namely hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV and syphilis. The results of the analysis of blood products produced by UTD (Blood Transfusion Unit) Surabaya showed bacterial contamination of blood products, starting from normal skin flora to pathogens. Bacterial contamination is also believed to be one of the causes of transfusion reactions. Therefore, it is necessary to make efforts to prevent bacterial contamination of blood products. One of the efforts is to find chemical compounds that have good antibacterial activity.Â In this study,Â the antibacterial activity of 2Ëˆ-hydroxy-4Ëˆ,6Ëˆ,4-trimethoxychalcone and 4-methoxychalcone was tested against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. The test method was agar diffusion at various concentrations of chalcone, namely 0.625; 1.25; 2.5 and 5.0%. The results showed that both chalcones had good antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
PDAM WATER QUALITY EVALUATION OF PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN MANJANGLOE VILLAGE, TAMALATEA SUB-DISTRICT, JENEPONTO DISTRICT
Authors: Kahar Fitriani
Published: December 2019

Water is the most important human need. The problem that arises in the Jeneponto district is the PDAM water that is used daily by the community is turbid, smelly, and often causing an itchy effect on the skin. This research is a type of observational study with a descriptive approach and laboratory test because the aim is to describe or describe the state of water quality of PDAM in terms of physical parameters, chemical parameters, and biological parameters in Kelurahan Manjangloe Kecamatan Tamalatea Kabupaten Jeneponto. The population and sample in this study is clean water from all PDAM taps received by the community in Manjangloe village Tamalatea Sub-district Jeneponto District. The results obtained from the physical parameters, there are 10 samples (100%) that meet the requirements, while the biological parameters there are 6 samples (60%) that meet requirements, while for chemical parameters there were 7 pH (70%) qualified parameters for checking water, while for the remaining chlorine water inspection parameters it was found that 0 samples (0%) were eligible. Suggestions the local PDAM should continue to maintain, improve, and monitor the quality of clean water both in the outlet pipe and the water that is distributed to customers.
Glucosylglycerol on performance of prebiotic potential
Authors: Sawangwan Thornthan
Published: December 2019

Background: Glucosylglycerol (GG), an organic compound constitutes a structurally diverse group of small organic molecules, which has a glycosidic chemical structure, where is a powerful osmolyte which catalyzed by sucrose phosphorylase in the presence of sucrose and glycerol as the donor and acceptor substrate.Context and purpose of this study: This research aims to study the potential of prebiotic properties from GG compared with three commercial oligosaccharides (FOS, inulin and lactulose) which have the prebiotic properties.Results: The cultures with GG and FOS showed statistically significant difference (P<0.05) capacity to stimulated both probiotic strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum) and presented high ability to inhibit four intestinal pathogens (Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Samonella paratyphi and Staphyloccous aureus) as displayed from wider inhibition zone compared with the culture without oligosaccharide. The tolerance ability of different gastrointestinal conditions (alpha-amylase, bile extract and HCl) in the culture medium with GG presented the highest percentage of survival (6.50%) after incubated with HCl for 3 hours (significant difference as P<0.05). The culture of L. acidophilus with GG in the medium displayed maximum lactic acid concentration (1.46 mg/mL) after 48 incubation hours.Conclusions: GG has high potential of prebiotic properties for probiotic growth stimulation, pathogenic inhibition and gastrointestinal tolerance. In addition, GG can introduce probiotic for high production of lactic acid concentration in the culture media. From these results, GG is promising for application and development to become an efficiency of functional food in the coming future.Keywords: glucosylglycerol, prebiotic, probiotic, pathogen inhibition, gastrointestinal tolerance, lactic acid
Effects and safety of daily ingestion of plum extract on blood pressure: randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled parallel group comparison study
Authors: Nishimura Mie , Kume Hiroyuki , Kadowaki Akio , Gato Nobuki , Nishihira Jun
Published: December 2019

Background: Hypertension is an increasing health issue in Japan. Plums are widely consumed in Japan and are reported to have various health benefits, including improvements to blood flow. However, clinical trials investigating the effects of plum extract on blood pressure have not yet been conducted. Therefore, we evaluated the effects and safety of plum extract on blood pressure in this randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled parallel group comparison study.Methods: Seventy-four healthy Japanese subjects with systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥130 and <160 mmHg were randomly divided into test and placebo groups. Subjects were given either plum extract-processed food (3.0 g of plum extract, containing 30 mg of mumefural and 1.119 g of citric acid) or placebo food daily for 12 weeks. Physical examinations, blood measurements, and medical interviews were performed at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12 and at 2 weeks after the intake period.Results: SBP and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) did not significantly differ between the groups. However, in subjects with grade I hypertension, DBP was significantly lower in the active test food group than in the placebo food group at week 12 and at 2 weeks after the intake period. An exploratory subgroup analysis revealed that plum extract improved DBP in subjects with normal to high obesity/class I obesity at week 12. Moreover, plum extract had positive effects on fatigue and bowel movements as determined by visual analog scale questionnaire evaluation. No abnormal changes or severe adverse events were observed in the physical examinations, blood measurements, or medical interviews in this trial.Conclusion: These results suggest that plum extract is safe for long-term intake and improves DBP in subjects with grade I hypertension.Keywords: blood pressure, clinical trial, mild hypertension, plum extract
Enzymatic hydrolysis on protein and β-glucan content of Sang-yod rice bran hydrolysates and their anti-inflammatory activity on RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Phantuwong Natcha , Thongraung Chakree , Yupanqui Chutha Takahashi
Published: December 2019

Background: Research focusing on the improvement of the utilization of rice bran is increasing due to its nutritional properties. Several biological activities of rice bran hydrolysates and its constituents have been reported. Sang-yod rice, a local rice variety in Southern of Thailand, is a pigmented rice. Furthermore, its bran has high nutritive value and health beneficial components. Accordingly, there is growing interest in transforming this by-product into a functional food ingredient.Objective: To investigate the effect of enzymatic hydrolysis processes on the digestion of protein and β-glucan and evaluate anti-proinflammatory properties of selected hydrolysates on RAW 264.7 macrophage cells.Method: Sang-yod rice bran hydrolysates were obtained using a single or co-enzymatic hydrolysis process and sequential hydrolysis process using amyloglucosidase and protease G6. Effects of enzyme concentration (3-5% v/w) and hydrolysis duration (30, 60, and 120 min) on soluble protein and β-glucan contents of obtained rice bran hydrolysates were evaluated. The selected rice bran hydrolysates were evaluated for their cell viability and inhibition against NO and pro-inflammatory cytokines generation on RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell lines.  Results: Protein content (0.59-3.37 %) of the rice bran hydrolysates (RBHs) was increased by increasing of enzyme concentration (3-5% v/w) and hydrolysis time (60-120 min). However, the β-glucan content (0.88-4.63%) of RBHs decreased with the increase of those parameters. The RBHs derived by the sequential process using 5% v/w enzyme concentration and 60 min hydrolysis time gave high protein (3.23%) and high β-glucan (4.02%) contents. The hydrolysates with high amount of protein and/or β-glucan contents demonstrated no cytotoxicity against RAW 264.7 cells at concentration range of 100-2,000 μg/ml. Additionally, they demonstrated NO inhibition and pro-inflammatory inhibition ranges of 49.09-71.63% and 9.37-71.96% respectively. Generation of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β cytokines was inhibited differently by the selected RBHs. Conclusion: Pre-digestion of Sang-yod rice bran with amyloglucosidase followed with co-hydrolysis of amyloglucosidase and protease G6 of the sequential hydrolysis process was the most effective process to release β-glucan and protein from of rice bran. The hydrolysate obtained from the process using enzyme concentration at 5%v/w and 60 min hydrolysis duration of each stage had the highest soluble β-glucan and protein content. Moreover, the process provided the hydrolysates with potential anti-inflammatory properties on nitric oxide inhibition and pro-inflammatory cytokines inhibition on RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. Keywords: Sang-yod rice, Rice bran hydrolysate, β-glucan, Enzymatic hydrolysis, Anti-inflammatory activity
Daily consumption of fermented soymilk helps to improve facial wrinkles in healthy postmenopausal women in a randomized, parallel-group, open-label trial
Authors: Kano Mitsuyoshi , Haga Kazuyoshi , Miyazaki Kouji , Ishikawa Fumiyasu
Published: December 2019

Background: Soymilk fermented by lactobacilli and/or bifidobacteria is attracting attention due to the excellent bioavailability of its isoflavones. We investigated the effects of fermented soymilk containing high amounts of isoflavone aglycones on facial wrinkles and urinary isoflavones in postmenopausal women in a randomized, parallel-group, open-label trial. Healthy Japanese women were randomly divided into active (n = 44, mean age 56.3 ± 0.5) or control (n = 44, mean age 56.1 ± 0.5) groups, who consumed or did not consume a bottle of soymilk fermented by Bifidobacterium breve strain Yakult and Lactobacillus mali for 8 weeks. Maximum depth of wrinkles around the crow’s feet area and other wrinkle parameters were evaluated as primary and secondary endpoints respectively at weeks 0, 4, and 8 during the consumption period. Urinary isoflavone levels were determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: The active group demonstrated significant improvements in the maximum depth (p=0.015) and average depth (p=0.04) of wrinkles, and significantly elevated urinary isoflavones (daidzein, genistein, and glycitein; each p < 0.001) compared with the control during the consumption period. No serious adverse effects were recorded.Conclusion: These findings suggest that fermented soymilk taken daily may improve facial wrinkles and elevate urinary isoflavones in healthy postmenopausal women.Key words: postmenopausal women; isoflavone; fermented soymilk; phytoestrogen; facial wrinkle
Protective effect of ginsenosides Rg2 and Rh1 on oxidation-induced impairment of erythrocyte membrane properties
Authors: Samukawa Keiichi , Suzuki Yoji , Ohkubo Nobutaka , Aoto Mamoru , Sakanaka Masahiro , Mitsuda Noriaki
Published: December 2019

The extract from Panax ginseng has been reported to improve the microcirculation in various organs. However, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are still poorly understood. In the present study, using the rheological properties of erythrocytes as an index, we have screened the components of Panax ginseng extract and identified Rg2 and Rh1 as the active ingredients. These two ginsenosides prevented the oxidative stress-induced elevation of erythrocyte suspension viscosity and the impairment of erythrocyte elongation in response to shear stress. Rg2 and Rh1 ginsenosides did not have antioxidant activity in an aqueous phase and did not inhibit the peroxidation of membrane lipids, either. However, they inhibited the oxidation-induced decrease of SH-groups in band 3 (anion exchanger-1), one of the important structural proteins of the erythrocyte membrane, but not in other structural proteins: bands 1 and 2 (spectrins), band 4.2 or band 5 (actin). These results suggest that ginsenosides Rg2 and Rh1 protect the rheological functions of erythrocytes against oxidative stress by preventing the oxidation of SH-groups in band 3 protein.
Linear viscoelastic behavior of subcutaneous adipose tissue
Authors: Geerligs Marion , Peters Gerrit W.M. , Ackermans Paul A.J. , Oomens Cees W.J. , Baaijens Frank P.T.
Published: December 2019

Subcutaneous adipose tissue contributes to the overall mechanical behavior of the skin. Until today, however, no thorough constitutive model is available for this layer of tissue. As a start to the development of such a model, the objective of this study was to measure and describe the linear viscoelastic behavior of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Although large strains occur in vivo, this work only focuses on the linear behavior to show the applicability of the described methods to adipose tissue. Shear experiments are performed on porcine samples on a rotational rheometer using parallel plate geometry. In the linear viscoelastic regime, up to 0.1% strain, the storage and loss modulus showed a frequency- and temperature-dependent behavior. The ratio between the two moduli, the phase angle, did not show any dependency on temperature and frequency. The shear modulus was found to be 7.5 kPa at 10 rad/s and 37°C. Time–temperature superposition was applicable through shifting the shear modulus horizontally. A power-law function model was introduced to describe both the frequency dependent behavior at constant temperature and the stress relaxation behavior. In addition, the effect of snap freezing as a preservation method was analyzed. Histological examination demonstrated possible tissue damage after freezing, but the mechanical properties did not change. Since results were reproducible, it is concluded that the methods we used are most probably suited to explore the non-linear behavior of subcutaneous adipose tissue.
Limb bud mesenchyme cultured under tensile strain remodel collagen type I tubes to produce fibrillar collagen type II
Authors: Amos Jennifer R. , Li Shigeng , Yost Michael , Phloen Harry , Potts Jay D.
Published: December 2019

In this work, we studied the effects of tensile strain on limb bud mesenchymal cells (MSC) cultured on a collagen type I tubular scaffold. A novel bioreactor was designed to culture the cells while subjecting the tubular scaffold to tensile stress and strain. Control samples included unseeded and MSC-seeded tubes cultured for 2 weeks under unloaded, no-strain conditions, and unseeded tubes subjected to prolonged tensile stress and strain. Mechanical properties of tube specimens were measured under oscillatory compressive stress. Following mechanical testing, scaffolds were fixed for immunohistochemistry or frozen for mRNA extraction. The storage modulii of both seeded/unstrained and seeded/strained tubes were significantly less than that of unseeded tubes, suggesting that MSC disrupted the structure and elasticity of the tubes' collagen type I. At a frequency of 1.0 Hz, the loss tangent of seeded/strained tubes was more than 2.5 times greater than that of seeded/unstrained tubes, and almost 6 times greater than that of unseeded tubes. Confocal microscopy and qRT-PCR results demonstrated that collagen type II and aggrecan expression was upregulated in the seeded/strained tubes. The images also show, for the first time, that culture under tensile strain induces MSC to remodel the collagen type I tube with collagen type II and aggrecan expression into fibrils dispersed throughout the matrix. The seeded/unstrained tubes manifested less collagen type II with a more random expression pattern. Compared to seeded/unstrained tubes, qRT-PCR for collagen type II in the seeded/strained tubes showed a 4-fold increase in the message for collagen type II and a 13-fold increase in the message for aggrecan. These results demonstrate that MSC cultured for at least some period under tensile strain are able to remodel collagen type I scaffolds to produce a more viscous construct having many of the mechanical and biological features of engineered cartilage.
Continuous cyclic compressive loading modulates biological and mechanical properties of collagen hydrogels seeded with human chondrocytes
Authors: Nebelung Sven , Gavenis Karsten , Rath Björn , Tingart Marcus , Ladenburger Andreas , Stoffel Marcus , Zhou Bei , Mueller-Rath Ralf
Published: December 2019

Purpose: This study investigated the potential of cyclic compressive loading in the generation of in vitro engineered cartilaginous tissue with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of mechanical preconditioning and its possible role in further optimizing existing matrix-associated cartilage replacement procedures.

Methods: Human chondrocytes were harvested from 12 osteoarthritic knee joints and seeded into a type I collagen (col-I) hydrogel at low density (2×105 cells/ml gel). The cell-seeded hydrogel was condensed and cultivated under continuous cyclic compressive loading (frequency: 0.3 Hz; strain: 10%) for 14 days under standardized conditions. After retrieval, specimens were subject to staining, histomorphometric evaluation, gene expression analysis and biomechanical testing.

Results: Cellular morphology was altered by both stimulation and control conditions as was staining for collagen II (col-II). Gene expression measurements revealed a significant increase for col-II under either cultivation condition. No significant differences in col-I, aggrecan and MMP-13 gene expression profiles were found. The col-II/col-I mRNA ratio significantly increased under stimulation, whereas the biomechanical properties deteriorated under either cultivation method.

Conclusions: Although the effects observed are small, mechanical preconditioning has demonstrated its potential to modulate biological properties of collagen hydrogels seeded with human chondrocytes.
Assessment of oxidant susceptibility of red blood cells in various species based on cell deformability
Authors: Simmonds Michael J. , Meiselman Herbert J. , Marshall-Gradisnik Sonya M. , Pyne Michael , Kakanis Michael , Keane James , Brenu Ekua , Christy Rhys , Baskurt Oguz K.
Published: December 2019

The present study was designed to investigate the oxidant susceptibility of red blood cells (RBC) from four species (echidna, human, koala, Tasmanian devil) based on changes in cellular deformability. These species were specifically chosen based on differences in lifestyle and/or biology associated with varied levels of oxidative stress. The major focus was the influence of superoxide radicals generated within the cell (phenazine methosulfate, PMS, 50 μM) or in the extracellular medium (xanthine oxidase–hypoxanthine, XO–HX, 0.1 U/ml XO) on RBC deformability at various shear stresses (SS). RBC deformability was assessed by laser-diffraction analysis using a “slit-flow ektacytometer”. Both superoxide-generating treatments resulted in significant increases of methemoglobin for all species (p<0.01), with Tasmanian devil RBC demonstrating the most sensitivity to either treatment. PMS caused impaired RBC deformability for all species, but vast interspecies variations were observed: human and koala cells exhibited a similar sigmoid-like response to SS, short-beaked echidna values were markedly lower and only increased slightly with SS, while Tasmanian devil RBC were extremely rigid. The effect of XO–HX on RBC deformability was less when compared with PMS (i.e., smaller increase in rigidity) with the exception of Tasmanian devil RBC which exhibited essentially no deformation even at the highest SS; Tasmanian devil RBC response to XO–HX was thus comparable to that observed with PMS. Our findings indicate that ektacytometry can be used to determine the oxidant susceptibility of RBC from different species which varies significantly among mammals representing diverse lifestyles and evolutionary histories. These differences in susceptibility are consistent with species-specific discrepancies between observed and allometrically-predicted life spans and are compatible with the oxidant theory of aging.
Coronary stents cause high velocity fluctuation with a flow acceleration and flow reduction in jailed branches: An in vitro study using laser-Doppler anemometry
Authors: Dörler Jakob , Frick Matthias , Hilber Monika , Breitfuss Harald , Abdel-Hadi Mohammed N. , Pachinger Otmar , Liepsch Dieter , Schwarzacher Severin P.
Published: December 2019

Flow disturbance and reduced blood flow have been associated with higher restenosis rates and clinical adverse events after coronary interventions. In the present study, we sought to investigate flow alterations that occurred after stent implantation in a coronary model, within and adjacent to the stented segment. Two stents (Carbostent, Tetrastent) with different strut design were deployed in the left anterior descending artery (LAD) of a 1:1 scaled silicon coronary model. The model was mounted into an artificial circulation and showed distensibility and rheologic behavior comparable to human coronaries. Flow profiles were assessed using laser-Doppler anemometry. Both stents induced a transitional flow within the stents, in the jailed branch as well as in the adjacent segments. However, the alterations in flow were less marked using the Carbostent having stents with thinner struts and a larger strut cell area, and thus seem to be more favorable in avoiding bifurcation lesions. This study shows precisely that stent implantation induces flow disturbances in segments known to be prone for restenosis. Investigations using laser-Doppler measurements may enlighten rheologic phenomena inducing restenosis and help in optimizing stent design and deployment techniques.
Transforming growth factor-β1 deteriorates microrheological characteristics and motility of mature dendritic cells in concentration-dependent fashion
Authors: Zheng Qinni , Long Jinhua , Jia Binbin , Xu Xiaoli , Zhang Chunlin , Li Long , Wen Zongyao , Jin Feng , Yao Weijuan , Zeng Zhu
Published: December 2019

Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent and specialized antigen-presenting cells that play a crucial role in initiating and amplifying both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Tumor cells can escape from immune attack by secreting suppressive cytokines which solely or cooperatively impair the immune function and microrheological properties of DCs. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully defined. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been identified as a major cytokine in the tumor microenvironment. To determine the effects of TGF-β1 on mature DCs (mDCs) from microrheological viewpoint, cells were treated with different concentrations of TGF-β1. The results showed that the impaired microrheological parameters, including osmotic fragility, electrophoretic mobility, deformability, membrane fluidity, F-actin organization and so on, as well as motilities of mDCs relied heavily on TGF-β1 concentration. Moreover, these changes were correlated with the expression levels of fascin1, cofilin1, phosphorylated cofilin1 and profilin, this could be one of the crucial aspects of immune escape mechanisms of tumors, hinting that the signal pathway of TGF-β1 should be blocked in appropriate way before performing DCs-based immunotherapy against cancer. It is clinically important to understand the biological behavior of DCs and immune escape mechanism of tumor as well as how to improve efficiency of the anti-tumor therapy based on DCs.
Blood rheology effect of submaximal exercise on young subjects
Authors: Romagnoli Marco , Alis Rafael , Martinez-Bello Vladimir , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Aranda Rafael , Gómez-Cabrera Mari-Carmen
Published: December 2019

Nowadays cardiac and metabolic diseases are a matter of concern. Exercise is a valid treatment and method of prevention for not only adults, but also young subjects. Physical activity causes transient blood rheology impairment in adults. However little is known about the effects of exercise on blood flow characteristics in young subjects. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of a light aerobic exercise session on blood rheology in young subjects. Ten young subjects (aged 12–16 years) performed 1 hour of submaximal aerobic exercise (70% HRmax). Blood samples were drawn just before and after exercise. We determined blood and plasma viscosity, fibrinogen, erythrocyte deformability and aggregability. No changes in blood viscosity (p > 0.05), erythrocyte aggregation (p > 0.05) and fibrinogen (p > 0.05) were observed. Hematocrit (p = 0.025) and plasma viscosity (p = 0.018) rose with exercise, while erythrocyte elongation index lowered (p < 0.001). Plasma volume slightly reduced which may explain the lack of changes in blood viscosity. The results of the present study indicate a similar hemorheological response to submaximal exercise in both young people and adults.
Protein carbonyl groups in trained subjects before and after a cardiopulmonary test
Authors: Lo Presti R. , Canino B. , Cilluffo P. , Calandrino V. , Hopps E. , Caimi G.
Published: December 2019

Physical exercise influences the body's oxidative status. The modifications can involve lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, and different effects seem to be induced by regular and acute exercise respectively. We examined protein oxidation, expressed as concentration of protein carbonyl groups (PC), in trained subjects before (time 0), 10 min (time 1) and 24 hours (time 2) after a cardiopulmonary test performed on a cycloergometer. We enrolled 38 trained subjects (26 men and 12 women), subdivided in two groups (A1 and B1) of 19 subjects each, according to the median value of VO2max, and in two groups (A2 and B2) of 19 subjects each, according to the median value of PC at baseline. PC concentration was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The groups A1 and B1 did not differ from each other as regards the basal PC level and groups A2 and B2 were not different as regards the VO2max. At time 1 PC showed a significant increase in comparison with baseline in trained subjects as a whole group, as well as in each subgroup. At time 2, PC were decreased in comparison with both times 0 and 1 in the whole group and in subgroups A1 and B2, whereas in subgroups A2 and B1 the PC value at time 2 was not different compared to time 0. The percentage increase of PC at time 1 vs time 0, as well as the percentage decrease at time 2 vs time 1 and time 0 respectively, were not different between subgroups A1 and B1. On the contrary, the percentage variations observed at each interval were significantly different between subgroups A2 and B2. The results suggest a reaction of antioxidant systems to acute exercise in trained subjects, influenced by basal PC levels more than by aerobic fitness.
Prior exposure of endothelial cells to hydroxycarbamide alters the flow dynamics and adhesion of sickle red blood cells
Authors: Verger Emmanuelle , Schoëvaërt Damien , Carrivain Pascal , Victor Jean-Marc , Lapouméroulie Claudine , Elion Jacques
Published: December 2019

The hallmark of sickle cell disease (SCD) is vasoocclusive crisis (VOC). The sickle red blood cells (SS-RBCs) present enhanced adhesion to activated endothelial cells (ECs) as compared to normal RBCs (AA-RBCs) and believed to contribute to VOC. Hydroxycarbamide (HC), the sole drug thus far proven as efficacious at reducing VOC frequency, alters the expression of adhesion proteins both on RBCs and ECs. We investigated the functional effect of HC on the adhesive properties of ECs from the micro- or the macrocirculation (TrHBMEC, HPMEC, and HUVEC). Using a flow chamber, we analyzed RBC dynamics on the treated or untreated EC bed and firm adhesion in basal and inflammatory conditions. Most significant effects were obtained with ECs from the pulmonary microcirculation (HPMEC). HC treatment of ECs affects both transient interactions and firm adhesion of SS-RBCs to the EC bed. Indeed, first, HC-treatment of ECs decreases the number of firmly adherent SS-RBCs to the adhesion level of AA-RBCs in a VCAM-1 independent manner. Second, HC significantly increases the mean velocity of SS-RBCs and reduces the population of SS-RBCs in contact with the EC bed. These data provide additional evidence that modulation of SS-RBCs/ECs interactions by HC represents an important aspect of its mechanism of action.
The passage of a hemodialysis filter affects hemorheology, red cell shape, and platelet aggregation
Authors: Reinhart W.H. , Cagienard F. , Schulzki T. , Venzin R.M.
Published: December 2019

We investigated the influence of the passage of a hemodialysis filter on red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, and hemorheological parameters. After one hour of hemodialysis, blood was drawn from 15 patients immediately ahead and behind the dialysis filter. RBCs were fixed for morphological analysis. Blood viscosity was measured with a Couette viscometer (LS-30, Contraves), RBC aggregation with a Myrenne aggregometer, platelet aggregation in flowing whole blood and in platelet rich plasma. The passage of the hemodialysis filter increased the hematocrit from 34.0 ± 3.8 to 44.6 ± 8.7% (p < 0.01). Discocytes decreased from 73 ± 9 to 60 ± 15%, while echinocytes/knizocytes were more abundant 24 ± 9% and 38 ± 15%, respectively, p < 0.01). Blood viscosity increased from 3.77 ± 0.52 to 6.75 ± 2.21 mPa.s (p < 0.01). The RBC aggregation index decreased from 25.8 ± 5.0 to 20.9 ± 5.6 (p < 0.05). These changes were less pronounced when the blood flow rate was reduced from 350 to 100 ml/min. Platelet aggregation was slightly increased in flowing whole blood, but decreased in platelet rich plasma. At the end of hemodialysis, a small increase in abnormally shaped RBCs, hematocrit, and whole blood viscosity persisted; platelet aggregation in flowing whole blood was reduced in all patients. We conclude that the passage of a hemodialysis filter induced RBC shape changes, increased the hematocrit, whole blood and plasma viscosity, decreased RBC aggregation, and affected platelet aggregation.
Aggregated time intensity curves after transarterial chemoembolization with degradable starch microspheres: A feasibility study
Authors: Heibl M. , Jung E.M. , Beyer L. , Wohlgemuth W.A. , Stroszczynski C. , Wiggermann P.
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE: To evaluate tumor perfusion by means of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (DCEUS) and aggregated time intensity curves (TICs) after transarterial chemoembolization with degradable starch microspheres (DSM-TACE). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 18 patients underwent 36 DCEUS examinations conducted via contrast agent application before and after DSM-TACE. Based on time intensity curves (TICs), we analyzed the microcirculation of the embolized HCC lesions with a dedicated perfusion software. RESULTS: Signal intensity was significantly reduced (p ≤ 0.001) after DSM-TACE at all time points measured. The mean signal intensity after 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 s was 375.18 ± 16.41, 455.66 ± 17.92, 294.47 ± 19.91, 246.51 ± 20.99 and 173.45 ± 25.80 before TACE and 49.47 ± 2.43, 49.51 ± 2.40, 37.40 ± 2.45, 27.48 ± 2.65 and 27.96 ± 3.01 after TACE. CONCLUSION: In this study, tumor perfusion could be accurately evaluated by means of DCEUS and aggregated TICs after DSM-TACE.
Viscosity of radiographic contrast media
Authors: Gerk U. , Mrowietz C.
Published: December 2019

The data on the viscosities of radiographic contrast media (RCM) in the literature diverge, sometimes considerably. A direct comparative study of RCM appears reasonable and necessary, since different studies have been based on the assumption of the correctness of historical data from the literature. RCM viscosities in the literature differ for one and the same contrast medium by up to 19.1%. Therefore, the measurement of these substances was carried out in terms of their viscosity with the same device under identical experimental conditions at virtually the same time. Of the 15 investigated RCMs, the viscosities were in 9 cases higher than the highest specification in the literature, the values were in the range of literature in three substances, and in three cases the values were a little below the lowest values in literature.