bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eph/ephrin Signaling and Biology of Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells
Authors: Alfaro David , Rodríguez-Sosa Mariano R. , Zapata Agustín G.
Published: January 2020

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as important therapeutic agents, owing to their easy isolation and culture, and their remarkable immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. However, MSCs constitute a heterogeneous cell population which does not express specific cell markers and has important problems for in vivo homing, and factors regulating their survival, proliferation, and differentiation are largely unknown. Accordingly, in the present article, we review the current evidence on the relationships between Eph kinase receptors, their ephrin ligands, and MSCs. These molecules are involved in the adult homeostasis of numerous tissues, and we and other authors have demonstrated their expression in human and murine MSCs derived from both bone marrow and adipose tissue, as well as their involvement in the MSC biology. We extend these studies providing new results on the effects of Eph/ephrins in the differentiation and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Platelets Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Oxidative Stress, and Circulating mtDNA in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Alfatni Abrar , Riou Marianne , Charles Anne-Laure , Meyer Alain , Barnig Cindy , Andres Emmanuel , Lejay Anne , Talha Samy , Geny Bernard
Published: January 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are devastating disorders and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases is complex and multifactorial and, in the past years, mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have gained growing attention. Indeed, CVDs can be considered as a systemic alteration, and understanding the eventual implication of circulating blood cells peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and or platelets, and particularly their mitochondrial function, ROS production, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) releases in patients with cardiac impairments, appears worthwhile. Interestingly, reports consistently demonstrate a reduced mitochondrial respiratory chain oxidative capacity related to the degree of CVD severity and to an increased ROS production by PBMCs. Further, circulating mtDNA level was generally modified in such patients. These data are critical steps in term of cardiac disease comprehension and further studies are warranted to challenge the possible adjunct of PBMCs’ and platelets’ mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and circulating mtDNA as biomarkers of CVD diagnosis and prognosis. This new approach might also allow further interesting therapeutic developments.
Increased Cancer Incidence Following up to 15 Years after Cardiac Catheterization in Infants under One Year between 1980 and 1998—A Single Center Observational Study
Authors: Stern Heiko , Seidenbusch Michael , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Meierhofer Christian , Naumann Susanne , Schmid Irene , Spix Claudia , Ewert Peter
Published: January 2020

Objective: To evaluate the incidence of cancer within the first 15 years of life in children who underwent cardiac catheterization under the age of one year. Methods: In this retrospective, single center study, 2770 infants (7.8% with trisomy 21) were studied. All infants underwent cardiac catheterization under one year of age between January 1980 and December 1998. Newly diagnosed cancer in the first 15 years of life was assessed through record linkage to the German Childhood Cancer Registry (GCCR). Cancer risk in study patients was compared to the GCCR population of children less than 15 years. Patients with trisomy 21 were compared to the Danish Cytogenic Register for trisomy 21. Effective radiation doses were calculated for each tumor patient and 60 randomly selected patients who did not develop cancer. Results: In total, 24,472.5 person-years were analyzed. Sixteen children developed cancer, while 3.64 were expected (standardized incidence ratio (SIR) = 4.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.5–7.2, p < 0.001). There was no preferred cancer type. The observed incidence of leukemia and solid tumors in trisomy 21 was only slightly higher (1 in 476 py) than expected (1 in 609 py, p = 0.64). There was no direct relationship between the radiation dose and the incidence of cancer. Conclusion: Cardiac catherization in the first year of life was associated with a significantly increased cancer risk in a population with congenital heart disease.
Mortality on the UNOS Waitlist for Patients with Autoimmune Liver Disease
Authors: Suri Jaspreet S. , Danford Christopher J. , Patwardhan Vilas , Bonder Alan
Published: January 2020

Background: Outcomes on the liver transplant waitlist can vary by etiology. Our aim is to investigate differences in waitlist mortality of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database. Methods: We identified patients who were listed for liver transplantation from 1987 to 2016 with a primary diagnosis of AIH, PBC, or PSC. We excluded patients with overlap syndromes, acute hepatic necrosis, missing data, and those who were children. The primary outcome was death or removal from the waitlist due to clinical deterioration. We compared waitlist survival using competing risk analysis. Results: Between 1987 and 2016, there were 7412 patients listed for liver transplant due to AIH, 8119 for PBC, and 10,901 for PSC. Patients with AIH were younger, more likely to be diabetic, and had higher listing model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores compared to PBC and PSC patients. Patients with PBC and AIH were more likely to be removed from the waitlist due to death or clinical deterioration. On competing risk analysis, AIH patients had a similar risk of being removed from the waitlist compared to those with PBC (subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) 0.94, 95% CI 0.85–1.03) and higher risk of removal compared to those with PSC (SHR 0.8, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.89). Conclusion: Autoimmune hepatitis carries a similar risk of waitlist removal to PBC and a higher risk than PSC. The etiology of this disparity is not entirely clear and deserves further investigation.
Adult Migraine Hospital Admission Trends in Finland: A Nationwide Registry Study
Authors: Sipilä Jussi O.T. , Ruuskanen Jori O. , Rautava Päivi , Kytö Ville
Published: January 2020

Population-level data on migraine hospital admission trends are unavailable. Changes in stroke care may have influenced these, since migraine is one of the most common stroke mimics. In this study, all hospital admissions on neurological, internal medicine, and pediatric wards in Finland with migraine as the primary diagnosis for persons at least 16 years of age in 2004–2014 were studied, resulting in an analysis of 6195 individuals with 7764 migraine discharges. The number of discharges increased by 4.2% annually (p = 0.000084), with no change in age of the admitted patients. Comorbidity burden was low but increased during the study period (p < 0.0001). The frequency of common vascular risk factors as comorbidities increased by 11–19% annually. Admission duration shortened by 2% annually (p < 0.0001). An intravenous thrombolysis was given in four admissions. It seems that migraine hospital admissions have become more frequent and the patients more often have cardiovascular risk factors, suggesting increased awareness and more aggressive acute evaluation of suspected stroke as the cause.
Experienced Burden of and Adherence to Smartphone-Based Ecological Momentary Assessment in Persons with Affective Disorders
Authors: van Genugten Claire R. , Schuurmans Josien , Lamers Femke , Riese Harriëtte , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Schoevers Robert A. , Riper Heleen M. , Smit Johannes H.
Published: January 2020

(1) Background: The use of smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment (EMA) questionnaires in affective disorder research has rapidly increased. Though, a thorough understanding of experienced burden of and adherence to EMA is crucial in determining the usefulness of EMA. (2) Methods: Persons with current affective disorders (n = 100), remitted persons (n = 190), and healthy controls (n = 94) participated in a smartphone-based EMA two-week monitoring period. Our primary outcomes were (momentary) perceived burden of and adherence to EMA. (3) Results: In the whole sample, lower positive and higher negative affect were associated with slightly higher levels of perceived momentary burden (B = −0.23 [95%CI = −0.27–0.19], B = 0.30 [95%CI = 0.24–0.37], respectively). The persons with current affective disorders reported slightly higher levels of experienced momentary burden (Mdn = 1.98 [IQR = 1.28–2.57]), than the remitted persons (Mdn = 1.64 [IQR = 1.11–2.24]) and healthy controls (Mdn = 1.28 [IQR = 1.04–1.92]). Nevertheless, the persons with current affective disorders still showed very high adherence rates (Mdn = 94.3% [IQR = 87.9–97.1]), at rates on a par with the remitted persons (Mdn = 94.3% [IQR = 90.0–97.1]) and healthy controls (Mdn = 94.3% [IQR = 90.0–98.6]). (4) Discussion: Frequent momentary questionnaires of mental well-being are slightly more burdensome to the persons with current affective disorders, but this does not seem to have a negative impact on adherence. Their high rate of adherence to EMA—which was similar to that in remitted persons and healthy controls —suggests that it is feasible to apply (short-duration) EMA.
Multiplexed Proteomic Approach for Identification of Serum Biomarkers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with Normal AFP
Authors: Lee Young-Sun , Ko Eunjung , Yoon Eileen L. , Jung Young Kul , Kim Ji Hoon , Seo Yeon Seok , Yim Hyung Joon , Kim Kyun-Hwan , Kwon So Young , Yeon Jong Eun , Um Soon Ho , Byun Kwan Soo
Published: January 2020

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) has been used as a serologic indicator of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to identify an HCC-specific serum biomarker for diagnosis using a multiplexed proteomic technique in HCC patients with normal AFP levels. A total of 152 patients were included from Guro Hospital, Korea University. Among 267 identified proteins, 28 and 86 proteins showed at least a two-fold elevation or reduction in expression, respectively. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) analysis of 41 proteins revealed 10 proteins were differentially expressed in patients with liver cirrhosis and HCC patients with normal AFP. A combination of tripartite motif22 (Trim22), seprase, and bone morphogenetic protein1 had an area under receiver operating characteristic of 0.957 for HCC diagnosis. Real-time PCR and western blot analysis of the paired tumor/non-tumor liver tissue in HCC revealed a reduced expression of Trim22 in the tumor tissue. Also, serum levels of Trim22 were significantly reduced in HCC patients with normal AFP compared to those with liver cirrhosis (p = 0.032). Inhibition of Trim22 increased cellular proliferation in human hepatoma cell lines, whereas overexpression of Trim22 decreased cellular proliferation in hepatoma cell lines. In conclusion, the combination of three serum markers improved the chance of diagnosing HCC. MRM-based quantification of the serum protein in patients with normal AFP provides the potential for early diagnosis of HCC.
Eighteen Months Follow-Up with Patient-Centered Outcomes Assessment of Complete Dentures Manufactured Using a Hybrid Nanocomposite and Additive CAD/CAM Protocol
Authors: Cristache Corina Marilena , Totu Eugenia Eftimie , Iorgulescu Gabriela , Pantazi Aida , Dorobantu Dorel , Nechifor Aurelia Cristina , Isildak Ibrahim , Burlibasa Mihai , Nechifor Gheorghe , Enachescu Marius
Published: January 2020

The present study aimed to assess the eighteen month follow-up patient-centered outcomes of a simple and predictable protocol for 3D-printed functional complete dentures manufactured using an improved poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)–nanoTiO2. A detailed morphological and structural characterization of the PMMA–TiO2 nanocomposite, using SEM, EDX, XRD, and AFM, after 3D-printing procedure and post-wearing micro-CT, was also performed. Methods: A total of 35 fully edentulous patients were enrolled in this prospective study. A 0.4% TiO2-nanoparticle-reinforced PMMA composite with improved mechanical strength, morphologically and structurally characterized, was used according to an additive computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) protocol for complete denture fabrication. The protocol proposed involved a three-step appointment process. Before denture insertion, 1 week, 12 month, and 18-month follow up patients were evaluated via the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS, 0–10) and Oral Health Impact Profile for Edentulous Patients (OHIP-EDENT), with a higher score meaning poor quality of life. Results: A total of 45 complete denture sets were inserted. OHIP-EDENT scored significantly better after 18 months of denture wearing, 20.43 (±4.42) compared to 52.57 (±8.16) before treatment; mean VAS was improved for all parameters assessed. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, we can state that the proposed workflow with the improved material used is a viable treatment option for patients diagnosed with complete edentulism.
Statin and Cancer Mortality and Survival: An Umbrella Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jeong Gwang Hun , Lee Keum Hwa , Kim Jong Yeob , Eisenhut Michael , Kronbichler Andreas , van der Vliet Hans J. , Shin Jae Il , Gamerith Gabriele
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study is to provide an overview and understand the strength of evidence and the extent of potential biases and the validity of claimed associations between the use of statins and cancer mortality or survival. We performed a comprehensive umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematically appraised the relevant meta-analyses of observational studies on the associations between statin use and cancer mortality or survival in various kinds of cancer. We searched the PubMed database and screened the reference list of relevant articles. We obtained the summary effect, 95% confidence interval, heterogeneity, and also examined small study effects and 95% prediction intervals for effect sizes, and the level of evidence was determined from the criteria. Regarding cancer mortality, statin use showed convincing evidence for an association with a reduced cancer-specific mortality rate for colorectal cancer. Four associations with reduced all-cause mortality (for breast cancer, colorectal cancer, endocrine-related gynecological cancer, and ovarian cancer) had a suggestive evidence. Moreover, analyses in nine cancers showed a weak level of evidence, while the remaining 15 did not indicate significant changes in either direction. Although there was a preventive effect of statin on cancer mortality in some cancer types, the evidence supporting the use of statins to reduce cancer mortality or survival was low.
Male Infertility: Shining a Light on Lipids and Lipid-Modulating Enzymes in the Male Germline
Authors: Walters Jessica L.H. , Gadella Bart M. , Sutherland Jessie M. , Nixon Brett , Bromfield Elizabeth G.
Published: January 2020

Despite the prevalence of male factor infertility, most cases are defined as idiopathic, thus limiting treatment options and driving increased rates of recourse to assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Regrettably, our current armory of ARTs does not constitute therapeutic treatments for male infertility, thus highlighting an urgent need for novel intervention strategies. In our attempts to fill this void, we have come to appreciate that the production of pathological levels of oxygen radicals within the male germline are a defining etiology of many idiopathic infertility cases. Indeed, an imbalance of reactive oxygen species can precipitate a cascade of deleterious sequelae, beginning with the peroxidation of membrane lipids and culminating in cellular dysfunction and death. Here, we shine light on the importance of lipid homeostasis, and the impact of lipid stress in the demise of the male germ cell. We also seek to highlight the utility of emerging lipidomic technologies to enhance our understanding of the diverse roles that lipids play in sperm function, and to identify biomarkers capable of tracking infertility in patient cohorts. Such information should improve our fundamental understanding of the mechanistic causes of male infertility and find application in the development of efficacious treatment options.
Conversion to Everolimus was Beneficial and Safe for Fast and Slow Tacrolimus Metabolizers after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Thölking Gerold , Gillhaus Nils Hendrik , Schütte-Nütgen Katharina , Pavenstädt Hermann , Koch Raphael , Suwelack Barbara , Reuter Stefan
Published: January 2020

Fast tacrolimus (TAC) metabolism (concentration/dose (C/D) ratio <1.05 ng/mL/mg) is a risk factor for inferior outcomes after renal transplantation (RTx) as it fosters, e.g., TAC-related nephrotoxicity. TAC minimization or conversion to calcineurin-inhibitor free immunosuppression are strategies to improve graft function. Hence, we hypothesized that especially patients with a low C/D ratio profit from a switch to everolimus (EVR). We analyzed data of 34 RTx recipients (17 patients with a C/D ratio <1.05 ng/mL/mg vs. 17 patients with a C/D ratio ≥1.05 ng/mL/mg) who were converted to EVR within 24 months after RTx. The initial immunosuppression consisted of TAC, mycophenolate, prednisolone, and basiliximab induction. During an observation time of 36 months after changing immunosuppression from TAC to EVR, renal function, laboratory values, and adverse effects were compared between the groups. Fast TAC metabolizers were switched to EVR 4.6 (1.5–21.9) months and slow metabolizers 3.3 (1.8–23.0) months after RTx (p = 0.838). Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) did not differ between the groups at the time of conversion (baseline). Thereafter, the eGFR in all patients increased noticeably (fast metabolizers eGFR 36 months: + 11.0 ± 11.7 (p = 0.005); and slow metabolizers eGFR 36 months: + 9.4 ± 15.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (p = 0.049)) vs. baseline. Adverse events were not different between the groups. After the switch, eGFR values of all patients increased statistically noticeably with a tendency towards a higher increase in fast TAC metabolizers. Since conversion to EVR was safe in a three-year follow-up for slow and fast TAC metabolizers, this could be an option to protect fast metabolizers from TAC-related issues.
Proteomic Analysis of Iodinated Contrast Agent-Induced Perturbation of Thyroid Iodide Uptake
Authors: Hichri Maha , Vassaux Georges , Guigonis Jean-Marie , Juhel Thierry , Graslin Fanny , Guglielmi Julien , Pourcher Thierry , Cambien Béatrice
Published: January 2020

(1) Background: We recently showed that iodinated contrast media (ICM) reduced thyroid uptake of iodide independently of free iodide through a mechanism different from that of NaI and involving a dramatic and long-lasting decrease in Na/I symporter expression. The present study aimed at comparing the response of the thyroid to ICM and NaI using a quantitative proteomic approach. (2) Methods: Scintiscans were performed on ICM-treated patients. Micro Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (microSPECT/CT) imaging was used to assess thyroid uptakes in ICM- or NaI-treated mice and their response to recombinant human thyroid-stimulating hormone. Total thyroid iodide content and proteome was determined in control, NaI-, or ICM-treated animals. (3) Results: The inhibitory effect of ICM in patients was selectively observed on thyroids but not on salivary glands for up to two months after a systemic administration. An elevated level of iodide was observed in thyroids from NaI-treated mice but not in those from ICM animals. Exposure of the thyroid to NaI modulates 15 cellular pathways, most of which are also affected by ICM treatment (including the elF4 and P706SK cell signaling pathway and INSR identified as an upstream activator in both treatments). In addition, ICM modulates 16 distinct pathways and failed to affect thyroid iodide content. Finally, administration of ICM reduces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor expression which results in a loss of TSH-induced iodide uptake by the thyroid. (4) Conclusions: Common intracellular mechanisms are involved in the ICM- and NaI-induced reduction of iodide uptake. However, ICM fails to affect thyroid iodide content which suggests that the modulation of these common pathways is triggered by separate effectors. ICM also modulates numerous distinct pathways which may account for its long-lasting effect on thyroid uptake. These observations may have implications in the management of patients affected by differentiated thyroid carcinomas who have been exposed to ICM. They also provide the basis for the utilization of ICM-based compounds in radioprotection of the thyroid.
The Extent of Transmission of Novel Coronavirus in Wuhan, China, 2020
Authors: Nishiura Hiroshi , Jung Sung-mok , Linton Natalie M. , Kinoshita Ryo , Yang Yichi , Hayashi Katsuma , Kobayashi Tetsuro , Yuan Baoyin , Akhmetzhanov Andrei R.
Published: January 2020

A cluster of pneumonia cases linked to a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was reported by China in late December 2019. Reported case incidence has now reached the hundreds, but this is likely an underestimate. As of 24 January 2020, with reports of thirteen exportation events, we estimate the cumulative incidence in China at 5502 cases (95% confidence interval: 3027, 9057). The most plausible number of infections is in the order of thousands, rather than hundreds, and there is a strong indication that untraced exposures other than the one in the epidemiologically linked seafood market in Wuhan have occurred.
Clinical Manifestations, Pathogenesis and Treatment of Hepatitis E Virus Infections
Authors: Lhomme Sébastien , Marion Olivier , Abravanel Florence , Izopet Jacques , Kamar Nassim
Published: January 2020

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis throughout the world. Most infections are acute but they can become chronic in immunocompromised patients, such as solid organ transplant patients, patients with hematologic malignancy undergoing chemotherapy and those with a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Extra-hepatic manifestations, especially neurological and renal diseases, have also been described. To date, four main genotypes of HEV (HEV1-4) were described. HEV1 and HEV2 only infect humans, while HEV3 and HEV4 can infect both humans and animals, like pigs, wild boar, deer and rabbits. The real epidemiology of HEV has been underestimated because most infections are asymptomatic. This review focuses on the recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of acute HEV infections, including severe hepatitis in patients with pre-existing liver disease and pregnant women. It also examines the mechanisms leading to chronic infection in immunocompromised patients and extra-hepatic manifestations. Acute infections are usually self-limiting and do not require antiviral treatment. Conversely, a chronic HEV infection can be cleared by decreasing the dose of immunosuppressive drugs or by treating with ribavirin for 3 months. Nevertheless, new drugs are needed for those cases in which ribavirin treatment fails.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Consensus-Recommended Platelet Function Tests to Assess P2Y12 Inhibition—Insights for Multi-Center Trials
Authors: Bélanger Jean-Christophe , Bandeira Ferreira Fabio Luiz , Welman Mélanie , Boulahya Rahma , Tanguay Jean-François , Y.F. So Derek , Lordkipanidzé Marie
Published: January 2020

The vasodilator-associated stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) phosphorylation level is a highly specific method to assess P2Y12 receptor inhibition. Traditionally, VASP phosphorylation is analyzed by flow cytometry, which is laborious and restricted to specialized laboratories. Recently, a simple ELISA kit has been commercialized. The primary objective of this study was to compare the performance of VASP assessment by ELISA and flow cytometry in relation to functional platelet aggregation testing by Multiplate® whole-blood aggregometry. Blood from 24 healthy volunteers was incubated with increasing concentration of a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor (AR-C 66096). Platelet function testing was carried out simultaneously by Multiplate® aggregometry and by VASP assessment through ELISA and flow cytometry. As expected, increasing concentrations of the P2Y12 receptor inhibitor induced a proportional inhibition of platelet aggregation and P2Y12 receptor activation across the modalities. Platelet reactivity index values of both ELISA- and flow cytometry-based VASP assessment methods correlated strongly (r = 0.87, p < 0.0001) and showed minimal bias (1.05%). Correlation with Multiplate® was slightly higher for the flow cytometry-based VASP assay (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001) than for the ELISA-based assay (r = 0.69, p < 0.0001). Intraclass correlation (ICC) was moderate for all the assays tested (ICC between 0.62 and 0.84). However, categorization into low, optimal, or high platelet reactivity based on these assays was strongly concordant (κ between 0.86 and 0.92). In conclusion, the consensus-recommended assays with their standardized cut-offs should not be used interchangeably in multi-center clinical studies but, rather, they should be standardized throughout sites.
Comparison and Verification of Reliability Assessment Techniques for Fuel Cell-Based Hybrid Power System for Ships
Authors: Jeon Hyeonmin , Park Kido , Kim Jongsu
Published: January 2020

In order to secure the safe operation of the ship, it is crucial to closely examine the suitability from the design stage of the ship, and to set up a preliminary review and countermeasures for failures and defects that may occur during the construction process. In shipyards, the failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) evaluation method using risk priority number (RPN) is used in the shipbuilding process. In the case of the conventional RPN method, evaluation items and criteria are ambiguous, and subjective factors such as evaluator’s experience and understanding of the system operate a lot on the same contents, resulting in differences in evaluation results. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the safety and reliability for ship application of the reliability-enhanced fuel cell-based hybrid power system by applying the re-established FMEA technique. Experts formed an FMEA team to redefine reliable assessment criteria for the RPN assessment factors severity (S), occurrence (O), and detection (D). Analyze potential failures of each function of the molten-carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) system, battery system, and diesel engine components of the fuel cell-based hybrid power system set as evaluation targets to redefine the evaluation criteria, and the evaluation criteria were derived by identifying the effects of potential failures. In order to confirm the reliability of the derived criteria, the reliability of individual evaluation items was verified by using the significance probability used in statistics and the coincidence coefficient of Kendall. The evaluation was conducted to the external evaluators using the reestablished evaluation criteria. As a result of analyzing the correspondence according to the results of the evaluation items, the severity was 0.906, the incidence 0.844, and the detection degree 0.861. Improved agreement was obtained, which is a significant result to confirm the reliability of the reestablished evaluation results.
Image Processing Tool Quantifying Auto-Tempered Carbides in As-Quenched Low Carbon Martensitic Steels
Authors: Ramesh Babu Shashank , Davis Thomas Paul , Haas Tim , Jarvenpää Antti , Kömi Jukka , Porter David
Published: January 2020

As-quenched low-carbon martensitic steels (<0.2 wt.% C) contain auto-tempered carbides. Auto-tempering improves the work hardening and upper-shelf impact energy; however, an efficient characterization method to determine the degree of auto-tempering has not been available. This paper demonstrates an efficient image processing tool that calculates the relative auto-tempered carbide fraction by analyzing scanning electron microscope micrographs. By the process of image segmentation, the qualitative volume fraction of auto-tempered carbides can be determined, and an associated color map produced, which distinguished the levels of auto-tempering. This image processing tool could become useful for the optimization of new low-carbon steel’s mechanical properties.
A Comparative Study in the Tribological Behavior of DLC Coatings Deposited by HiPIMS Technology with Positive Pulses
Authors: García Jose A. , Rivero Pedro J. , Barba Eneko , Fernández Ivan , Santiago Jose A. , Palacio Jose F. , Fuente Gonzalo G. , Rodríguez Rafael J.
Published: January 2020

During the last few decades, diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings were widely used for tribological applications, being an effective tool for improving the performance and the useful life of different machining tools. Despite its excellent properties, among which stand out a high hardness, a very low friction coefficient, and even an excellent wear resistance, one of the main drawbacks which limits its corresponding industrial applicability is the resultant adhesion in comparison with other commercially available deposition techniques. In this work, it is reported the tribological results of a scratch test, wear resistance, and nanoindentation of ta-C and WC:C DLC coatings deposited by means of a novel high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) technology with “positive pulses”. The coatings were deposited on 1.2379 tool steel which is of a high interest due to its great and wide industrial applicability. Finally, experimental results showed a considerable improvement in the tribological properties such as wear resistance and adhesion of both types of DLC coatings. In addition, it was also observed that the role of doping with W enables a significant enhancement on the adhesion for extremely high critical loads in the scratch tests.
Effect of Laminar Flow on the Corrosion Activity of AA6061-T6 in Seawater
Authors: Acosta Gloria , Veleva Lucien , Chávez Luis , López Juan L.
Published: January 2020

The electrochemical behaviour and surface changes on AA6061-T6 alloy exposed to Caribbean seawater from the Cozumel Channel for 30 days under laminar flow (0.1 m s−1) were studied, contrasting then with stationary (no flow) conditions. Monitoring of open-circuit potential and current fluctuations, both considered as electrochemical noise (EN), were employed as two nondestructive methods. The calculated corrosion current, based on Rn, was one order higher in laminar flow. The fluctuations of current were transformed in the frequency domain. Their power spectral density (PSD) plots were obtained in order to gain information concerning the dynamic of the spontaneous release of energy during the corrosion process. The value of the exponent β in PSD graphs suggested that the localised corrosion on AA6061-T6 surface occurs as a persistent stationary process, in which dynamic is controlled by oxygen diffusion and its renewal at the metal interface. The changes in the morphology and elemental composition of the formed layers revealed that the localized attacks occurred in the vicinity of intermetallic particles rich in Fe and Cu, which act as cathodes.
Effect of Aluminum on Microstructure and High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Austenitic Heat-Resistant Steel
Authors: Gu Chang , Liu Ruizhuo , Wang Chengduo , Sun Yufu , Zhang Shaojun
Published: January 2020

The ZG40Cr20Ni20Alx (x = 0, 1.76, 3.45, and 5.34) heat-resistant steel has been newly developed on the basis of HK40 steel for aggressive oxidizing environments. The results reveal that the Al greatly enhances the oxidation resistance of ZG40Cr20Ni20 steel at high temperatures. The mass gain of ZG40Cr20Ni20 upon oxidation at 1100 °C for 480 h is up to 103.6 mg/cm2, while the values for the steels containing 1.76 and 3.45 wt% Al are sharply decreased to 6.1 and 5.4 mg/cm2, respectively. Both of their matrix phases are still austenite, which is the same as that of ZG40Cr20Ni20. Their FeCr2O4 spinel oxide scales appear to be more stable under high oxygen partial pressure than that of ZG40Cr20Ni20, and the continuous Cr2O3 film appears between their matrix and spinel oxide. As for the steel with 5.34 wt% Al, the mass gain is only 1.1 mg/cm2. Its matrix is compared to those of austenite and ferrite, and the oxide scale is continuous Al2O3.
Dexamethasone-Induced Perturbations in Tissue Metabolomics Revealed by Chemical Isotope Labeling LC-MS Analysis
Authors: Dahabiyeh Lina , Malkawi Abeer , Wang Xiaohang , Colak Dilek , Mujamammi Ahmed , Sabi Essa , Li Liang , Dasouki Majed , Abdel Rahman Anas
Published: January 2020

Dexamethasone (Dex) is a synthetic glucocorticoid (GC) drug commonly used clinically for the treatment of several inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases. Despite its broad range of indications, the long-term use of Dex is known to be associated with specific abnormalities in several tissues and organs. In this study, the metabolomic effects on five different organs induced by the chronic administration of Dex in the Sprague–Dawley rat model were investigated using the chemical isotope labeling liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (CIL LC-MS) platform, which targets the amine/phenol submetabolomes. Compared to controls, a prolonged intake of Dex resulted in significant perturbations in the levels of 492, 442, 300, 186, and 105 metabolites in the brain, skeletal muscle, liver, kidney, and heart tissues, respectively. The positively identified metabolites were mapped to diverse molecular pathways in different organs. In the brain, perturbations in protein biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and monoamine neurotransmitter synthesis were identified, while in the heart, pyrimidine metabolism and branched amino acid biosynthesis were the most significantly impaired pathways. In the kidney, several amino acid pathways were dysregulated, which reflected impairments in several biological functions, including gluconeogenesis and ureagenesis. Beta-alanine metabolism and uridine homeostasis were profoundly affected in liver tissues, whereas alterations of glutathione, arginine, glutamine, and nitrogen metabolism pointed to the modulation of muscle metabolism and disturbances in energy production and muscle mass in skeletal muscle. The differential expression of multiple dipeptides was most significant in the liver (down-regulated), brain (up-regulation), and kidney tissues, but not in the heart or skeletal muscle tissues. The identification of clinically relevant pathways provides holistic insights into the tissue molecular responses induced by Dex and understanding of the underlying mechanisms associated with their side effects. Our data suggest a potential role for glutathione supplementation and dipeptide modulators as novel therapeutic interventions to mitigate the side effects induced by Dex therapy.
Current Practice in Untargeted Human Milk Metabolomics
Authors: Ten-Doménech Isabel , Ramos-Garcia Victoria , Piñeiro-Ramos José David , Gormaz María , Parra-Llorca Anna , Vento Máximo , Kuligowski Julia , Quintás Guillermo
Published: January 2020

Human milk (HM) is considered the gold standard for infant nutrition. HM contains macro- and micronutrients, as well as a range of bioactive compounds (hormones, growth factors, cell debris, etc.). The analysis of the complex and dynamic composition of HM has been a permanent challenge for researchers. The use of novel, cutting-edge techniques involving different metabolomics platforms has permitted to expand knowledge on the variable composition of HM. This review aims to present the state-of-the-art in untargeted metabolomic studies of HM, with emphasis on sampling, extraction and analysis steps. Workflows available from the literature have been critically revised and compared, including a comprehensive assessment of the achievable metabolome coverage. Based on the scientific evidence available, recommendations for future untargeted HM metabolomics studies are included.
Autonomous Microrobotic Manipulation Using Visual Servo Control
Authors: Feemster Matthew , Piepmeier Jenelle A. , Biggs Harrison , Yee Steven , ElBidweihy Hatem , Firebaugh Samara L.
Published: January 2020

This describes the application of a visual servo control method to the microrobotic manipulation of polymer beads on a two-dimensional fluid interface. A microrobot, actuated through magnetic fields, is utilized to manipulate a non-magnetic polymer bead into a desired position. The controller utilizes multiple modes of robot actuation to address the different stages of the task. A filtering strategy employed in separation mode allows the robot to spiral from the manipuland in a fashion that promotes the manipulation positioning objective. Experiments demonstrate that our multiphase controller can be used to direct a microrobot to position a manipuland to within an average positional error of approximately 8 pixels (64 µm) over numerous trials.
Exploring the Ambiguous Status of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci in the Biosafety of Fermented Meats: The Case of Antibacterial Activity Versus Biogenic Amine Formation
Authors: Van der Veken David , Benhachemi Rafik , Charmpi Christina , Ockerman Lore , Poortmans Marijke , Van Reckem Emiel , Michiels Chris , Leroy Frédéric
Published: January 2020

A total of 332 staphylococcal strains, mainly isolated from meat, were screened for antibacterial activity. Eighteen strains exhibited antibacterial activity towards species within the same genus. These antibacterial strains were further screened against Clostridium botulinum, to assess their potential as anticlostridial starter cultures for the development of fermented meat products without added nitrate or nitrite. Only Staphylococcus sciuri IMDO-S72 had the ability to inhibit all clostridial strains tested, whilst displaying additional activity against Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. Apart from their potential as bioprotective cultures, the staphylococcal collection was also screened for biogenic amine production, as these compounds may compromise food quality. To this end, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was applied. A low incidence of biogenic amine production was found, with tyramine and β-phenylethylamine being the most prevalent ones. Concentrations remained relatively low (< 52 mg/L) after a prolonged incubation period, posing no or little threat towards food safety. Taken together, S. sciuri IMDO-S72 could serve as an interesting candidate for the bioprotection of fermented meats as it showed promising antibacterial activity as well as absence of biogenic amine production.
Drosophila Sexual Attractiveness in Older Males Is Mediated by Their Microbiota
Authors: Heys Chloe , Lizé Anne , Lewis Zenobia , Price Tom A. R.
Published: January 2020

Age is well known to be a basis for female preference of males. However, the mechanisms underlying age-based choices are not well understood, with several competing theories and little consensus. The idea that the microbiota can affect host mate choice is gaining traction, and in this study we examine whether the male microbiota influences female preference for older individuals in the fruit fly Drosophila pseudoobscura. We find that an intact microbiota is a key component of attractiveness in older males. However, we found no evidence that this decrease in older male attractiveness was simply due to impaired microbiota generally reducing male quality. Instead, we suggest that the microbiota underlies an honest signal used by females to assess male age, and that impaired microbiota disrupt this signal. This suggests that age-based preferences may break down in environments where the microbiota is impaired, for example when individuals are exposed to naturally occurring antibiotics, extreme temperatures, or in animals reared in laboratories on antibiotic supplemented diet.
Data-Driven Predictive Modelling of Mineral Prospectivity Using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Methods: A Case Study from Southern Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Sun Tao , Li Hui , Wu Kaixing , Chen Fei , Zhu Zhong , Hu Zijuan
Published: January 2020

Predictive modelling of mineral prospectivity, a critical, but challenging procedure for delineation of undiscovered prospective targets in mineral exploration, has been spurred by recent advancements of spatial modelling techniques and machine learning algorithms. In this study, a set of machine learning methods, including random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), and a deep learning convolutional neural network (CNN), were employed to conduct a data-driven W prospectivity modelling of the southern Jiangxi Province, China. A total of 118 known W occurrences derived from long-term exploration of this brownfield area and eight evidential layers of multi-source geoscience information related to W mineralization constituted the input datasets. This provided a data-rich foundation for training machine learning models. The optimal configuration of model parameters was trained by a grid search procedure and validated by 10-fold cross-validation. The resulting predictive models were comprehensively assessed by a confusion matrix, receiver operating characteristic curve, and success-rate curve. The modelling results indicate that the CNN model achieves the best classification performance with an accuracy of 92.38%, followed by the RF model (87.62%). In contrast, the RF model outperforms the rest of ML models in overall predictive performance and predictive efficiency. This is characterized by the highest value of area under the curve and the steepest slope of success-rate curve. The RF model was chosen as the optimal model for mineral prospectivity in this region as it is the best predictor. The prospective zones delineated by the prospectivity map occupy 9% of the study area and capture 66.95% of the known mineral occurrences. The geological interpretation of the model reveals that previously neglected Mn anomalies are significant indicators. This implies that enrichment of ore-forming material in the host rocks may play an important role in the formation process of wolframite and can represent an innovative exploration criterion for further exploration in this area.
Safety and Effectiveness of the Prolonged Treatment of Children with a Ketogenic Diet
Authors: Ruiz Herrero Jana , Cañedo Villarroya Elvira , García Peñas Juan José , García Alcolea Beatriz , Gómez Fernández Begoña , Puerta Macfarland Laura Andrea , Pedrón Giner Consuelo
Published: January 2020

Background: The ketogenic diet (KD) is an effective treatment against drug-resistant epilepsy in children. The KD is a diet rich in fats that produces anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects that reduces seizures and improves the cognitive state. Nevertheless, it can produce side effects that sometimes can be serious. Further, the effect on growth is quite controversial when used for an extended period of time. The aim of this paper was to assess the effectiveness, side effects, and repercussions in the development of children who have been treated with a KD for more than 2 years. Methods: Observational descriptive study of 26 pediatric patients on a KD, with data collection at baseline, at 3, 6, and 12 months, and then once a year. Number of seizures, type of seizures, anti-seizure drugs, anthropometry, side effects, and alterations in laboratory assessment were monitored. Results: In every assessment, about 60%–75% of the patients experienced a reduction in number of seizures of over 90%, and at least 50% experienced side effects, of which digestive issues, alteration in the lipid metabolism, and hypercalciuria were the most common. The KD significantly affected height after 2 years of treatment. Conclusions: The KD is an effective treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy. Its side effects, although common, are very mild; therefore, this constitutes a very safe treatment for children of all ages. More studies are needed to identify and prevent potential causes of growth retardation in children on the KD.
Anti-Obesity Effects of Grateloupia elliptica, a Red Seaweed, in Mice with High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity via Suppression of Adipogenic Factors in White Adipose Tissue and Increased Thermogenic Factors in Brown Adipose Tissue
Authors: Lee Hyo-Geun , Lu Yu An , Li Xining , Hyun Ji-Min , Kim Hyun-Soo , Lee Jeong Jun , Kim Tae Hee , Kim Hye Min , Kang Min-Cheol , Jeon You-Jin
Published: January 2020

Obesity is a serious metabolic syndrome characterized by high levels of cholesterol, lipids in the blood, and intracellular fat accumulation in adipose tissues. It is known that the suppression of adipogenic protein expression is an effective approach for the treatment of obesity, and regulates fatty acid storage and transportation in adipose tissues. The 60% ethanol extract of Grateloupia elliptica (GEE), a red seaweed from Jeju Island in Korea, was shown to exert anti-adipogenic activity in 3T3-L1 cells and in mice with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. GEE inhibited intracellular lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells, and significantly reduced expression of adipogenic proteins. In vivo experiments indicated a significant reduction in body weight, as well as white adipose tissue (WAT) weight, including fatty liver, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and leptin contents. The expression of the adipogenic proteins, SREBP-1 and PPAR-γ, was significantly decreased by GEE, and the expression of the metabolic regulator protein was increased in WAT. The potential of GEE was shown in WAT, with the downregulation of PPAR-γ and C/EBP-α mRNA; in contrast, in brown adipose tissue (BAT), the thermogenic proteins were increased. Collectively, these research findings suggest the potential of GEE as an effective candidate for the treatment of obesity-related issues via functional foods or pharmaceutical agents.