bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uptake of Ranibizumab but Not Bevacizumab into Uveal Melanoma Cells Correlates with a Sustained Decline in VEGF-A Levels and Metastatic Activities
Authors: Tura Aysegül , Pawlik Vera E. , Rudolf Martin , Ernesti Justus S. , Stutzer Jan-Niklas , Grisanti Salvatore , Ranjbar Mahdy
Published: June 2019

Despite the implication of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) in the pathophysiology of uveal melanoma (UM), the anti-VEGF-A antibody bevacizumab yielded conflicting results on UM growth. Here, we evaluated whether bevacizumab and ranibizumab, a humanized Fab-fragment against VEGF-A, can enter UM cells and induce a sustained physiological response. The primary and metastatic UM cell lines Mel-270 and OMM-2.5 were exposed to bevacizumab or ranibizumab for one day and were maintained further in untreated medium for a total of three days. Both antibodies significantly reduced the levels of extracellular VEGF-A and the angiogenic potential of the conditioned medium after one day. These inhibitory effects of bevacizumab diminished by day three. Ranibizumab suppressed the metabolic activity, proliferation, and intracellular VEGF-A levels in a cell-type and concentration-dependent manner, whereas bevacizumab exerted no effect. Both drugs were detected inside early endosomes within the UM cells, with the stronger and sustained colocalization of ranibizumab. Our results therefore demonstrated the more potent and persistent suppressive activity of ranibizumab on the UM cells, possibly due to its higher level of uptake and prolonged intracellular retention. Further research on the endosome dynamics in UM cells might provide valuable insight into the response of these heterogenous tumors to therapeutic antibodies.
Automated Definition of Skeletal Disease Burden in Metastatic Prostate Carcinoma: A 3D Analysis of SPECT/CT Images
Authors: Fiz Francesco , Dittmann Helmut , Campi Cristina , Weissinger Matthias , Sahbai Samine , Reimold Matthias , Stenzl Arnulf , Piana Michele , Sambuceti Gianmario , la Fougère Christian
Published: June 2019

To meet the current need for skeletal tumor-load estimation in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), we developed a novel approach based on adaptive bone segmentation. In this study, we compared the program output with existing estimates and with the radiological outcome. Seventy-six whole-body single-photon emission computed tomographies/x-ray computed tomography with 3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanedicarboxylic acid from mCRPC patients were analyzed. The software identified the whole skeletal volume (SVol) and classified the voxels metastases (MVol) or normal bone (BVol). SVol was compared with the estimation of a commercial software. MVol was compared with manual assessment and with prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels. Counts/voxel were extracted from MVol and BVol. After six cycles of 223RaCl2-therapy every patient was re-evaluated as having progressive disease (PD), stable disease (SD), or a partial response (PR). SVol correlated with that of the commercial software (R = 0.99, p < 0.001). MVol correlated with the manually-counted lesions (R = 0.61, p < 0.001) and PSA (R = 0.46, p < 0.01). PD had a lower counts/voxel in MVol than PR/SD (715 ± 190 vs. 975 ± 215 and 1058 ± 255, p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) and BVol (PD 275 ± 60, PR 515 ± 188 and SD 528 ± 162 counts/voxel, p < 0.001). Segmentation-based tumor load correlated with radiological/laboratory indices. Uptake was linked with the clinical outcome, suggesting that metastases in PD patients have a lower affinity for bone-seeking radionuclides and might benefit less from bone-targeted radioisotope therapies.
The Role of Adipose Tissue in the Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Outcomes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Eder Piotr , Adler Maciej , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Kamhieh-Milz Julian , Witowski Janusz
Published: June 2019

Though historically regarded as an inert energy store, adipose tissue is a complex endocrine organ, which is increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Accumulating evidence points to visceral adipose tissue and specifically to its mesenteric component, or “creeping fat” as impacting on the disease course through its immunomodulatory properties. On the one hand, mesenteric fat acts as a physical barrier to inflammation and is involved in controlling host immune response to translocation of gut bacteria. On the other hand, however, there exists a strong link between visceral fat and complicated course of the disease with unfavorable therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, “creeping fat” appears to play different roles in different IBD phenotypes, with the greatest pathogenetic contribution probably to an ileal form of Crohn’s disease. In this review, we summarize and discuss the existing literature on the subject and identify high-priority areas for future research. It may be that a better understanding of the role of mesenteric fat in IBD will determine new therapeutic targets and translate into improved clinical outcomes.
mTOR Signaling Pathway Regulates Sperm Quality in Older Men
Authors: Silva Joana Vieira , Cabral Madalena , Correia Bárbara Regadas , Carvalho Pedro , Sousa Mário , Oliveira Pedro Fontes , Fardilha Margarida
Published: June 2019

Understanding how age affects fertility becomes increasingly relevant as couples delay childbearing toward later stages of their lives. While the influence of maternal age on fertility is well established, the impact of paternal age is poorly characterized. Thus, this study aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for age-dependent decline in spermatozoa quality. To attain it, we evaluated the impact of male age on the activity of signaling proteins in two distinct spermatozoa populations: total spermatozoa fraction and highly motile/viable fraction. In older men, we observed an inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in the highly viable spermatozoa population. On the contrary, when considering the entire spermatozoa population (including defective/immotile/apoptotic cells) our findings support an active mTORC1 signaling pathway in older men. Additionally, total spermatozoa fractions of older men presented increased levels of apoptotic/stress markers [e.g., cellular tumor antigen p53 (TP53)] and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activity. Moreover, we established that the levels of most signaling proteins analyzed were consistently and significantly altered in men older than 27 years of age. This study was the first to associate the mTOR signaling pathway with the age impact on spermatozoa quality. Additionally, we constructed a network of the sperm proteins associated with male aging, identifying TP53 as a central player in spermatozoa aging.
HA Coating on Ti6Al7Nb Alloy Using an Electrophoretic Deposition Method and Surface Properties Examination of the Resulting Coatings
Authors: Aydın İbrahim , Bahçepınar Ali İhsan , Kırman Mustafa , Çipiloğlu Mustafa Ali
Published: June 2019

Ti and its alloys, which are commonly used in biomedical applications, are often preferred due to their proximity to the mechanical properties of bone. In order to increase the biocompatibility and bioactivities of these materials, biomaterials based on ceramic are used in coating operations. In this study, by using an electrophoretic deposition method, instead of on the Ti6Al4V alloy which is commonly used in the literature, a hydroxyapatite (HA) coating operation was applied on the surface of the Ti6Al7Nb alloy, and the surface properties of the coatings were examined. Ti6Al7Nb is a new-generation implant on which there have not been many studies. The voltage values which were used in the coating operation were 50, 100, 150 and 200 V, and the time parameter was stabilized at 1 min. In our method, when preparing the solution, HA, ethanol, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were used. At the end of the study, by using an electron microscope (SEM) the microstructures of the coatings were examined; elemental analyses (EDS) of the coating surfaces were performed; and by using an X-radiation diffraction (XRD) method, the phases which the coatings contained and the concentration of these phases were determined, and the coating thickness, roughness, and hardness values were also determined. Also, by conducting a Scratch test, the strength of the surface combination was examined. At the end of the study, in each parameter, a successful HA coating was seen. By comparing parameters with each other, the ideal voltage value in this coating was determined. It was determined that the most suitable coating was obtained at 100 V voltage and 1 min deposition time.
The Antibacterial Properties and Safety of a Nanoparticle-Coated Parquet Floor
Authors: Jia Chong , Zhang Yang , Cui Juqing , Gan Lu
Published: June 2019

Floor antibacterial technology prevents the human body from cross-infection with bacterial diseases. The most commonly used approach to endow daily-used floors with antibacterial properties is to apply a thin film of antibacterial agents on the parquet floor surface. In the present study, five commercial antibacterial nanoparticles were first dispersed in melamine resin solution, and then applied on a floor. Afterwards, the antibacterial properties of the nanoparticle-coated floor were investigated, in which Escherichia coli was used as the target bacteria. The impact of the nanoparticle dispersing agents on the ultimate antibacterial properties of the floor were also investigated. The results showed that silver nanoparticle-loaded hydroxyl zirconium sodium phosphate (Ag-HZDP) was most suitable as the antibacterial agent of a melamine coating for parquet flooring. With the help of sodium hexametaphosphate, the antibacterial agent was able to disperse well in the melamine resin solution and was also able to disperse well on the floor surface. When the loading amount of Ag-HZDP was 1 wt % or higher, the prepared antibacterial floor was able kill almost all the bacteria cultivated on its surface. Moreover, the prepared antibacterial floor had a lower toxicity compared with a pristine cedar substrate. The present study provides an effective way to provide daily-used parquet floors with excellent antibacterial properties.
Corrosion Resistance Test of Electroplated Gold and Palladium Using Fast Electrochemical Analysis
Authors: Giurlani Walter , Marcantelli Patrick , Benelli Francesco , Bottacci Daniele , Gambinossi Filippo , Passaponti Maurizio , De Luca Antonio , Salvietti Emanuele , Innocenti Massimo
Published: June 2019

Noble metal coatings are commonly employed to improve corrosion resistance of metals in the electronic and jewellery industry. The corrosion resistance of electroplated goods is currently determinate with long, destructive and almost subjective interpretation corrosion tests in artificial atmosphere. In this study we present the application of electrochemical analysis to obtain fast and numerical information of the antiaging coating. We performed open circuit potential (OCP) and corrosion current measurement; we employed also the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), commonly applied to organic or passivated metal with high-impedance, to find the best option for noble low-impedance coating analysis. For comparison, traditional standardized tests (damp heat ISO 17228, salt spray ISO 9227 and sulphur dioxide ISO 4524) were also performed.
A Semi-Parametric Approach to the Oaxaca–Blinder Decomposition with Continuous Group Variable and Self-Selection
Authors: Rios-Avila Fernando
Published: June 2019

This paper presents an extension to the Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition with continuous groups using a semiparametric approach known as varying coefficients model. To account for potential self-selection into the continuum of groups, the use of inverse mills ratios is expanded upon following the literature on endogenous selection. The flexibility of this methodology may allow detecting heterogeneity when analyzing endogenous dose treatments effects, as well as correcting for endogeneity when analyzing the heterogeneous partial effects across the continuous group variable. For illustration, the methodology is used to revisit the impact of body weight on wages, using body mass index (BMI) as the continuum of groups, finding evidence that body weight has a negative, but decreasing impact on wages for both white men and women.
Insights into Components of Prospective Science Teachers’ Mental Models and Their Preferred Visual Representations of Atoms
Authors: Derman Aysegül , Koçak Nuriye , Eilks Ingo
Published: June 2019

This study focused on determining the elements of mental models of atomic structure and views on visual representations of models of atomic structure in two sub-cohorts of student teachers studying at a university in Turkey. In total, 141 student teachers participated in this study. In the first cohort, the focus was on 73 freshman science student teachers’ drawings of mental models of atomic structure. The analysis showed a wide variety of individual aspects in the students’ minds when asked to sketch the structure of atoms. The majority of students preferred to draw two-dimensional structures, neglecting the atom’s space-filling character. Concerning the details of atomic structure, the majority of students emphasized only the most essential components of atoms, namely protons, neutrons, and electrons. It was quickly recognizable that these elements were arranged according to different analogies or representations of historical models, particularly related to Bohr’s atomic theory and different representations thereof. Overall, the different visual representations of atomic models the students see in school, almost exclusively serve as the basis for their ideas about atomic structure. Current atomic theory, like quantum mechanical models, are generally not used when students are asked for a “contemporary” model of atoms. Rather it seems that concreteness and functionality are the primary factors leading to the selection of an atomic model when requested. This study is supplemented by data collected from the second cohort of 68 prospective teachers consisting of a diverse group of students ranging from freshman to senior level. The students in this cohort were asked for their preferred illustrations of atoms in textbooks. Open-ended questions about atoms led to further insights. The analysis of the prospective teachers’ drawings indicated that a more careful approach to teaching is necessary to clarify the relationships between different models of atomic structure and to allow students to understand what an appropriate and contemporary understanding of atomic structure should encompass.
Light Exposure Effects on the DC Kink of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs
Authors: Caddemi Alina , Cardillo Emanuele , Patanè Salvatore , Triolo Claudia
Published: June 2019

This paper presents the effects of optical radiation on the behavior of two scaled-gate aluminum gallium nitride/gallium nitride (AlGaN/GaN) high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). The tested devices, having a gate width of 100 and 200 µm and a gate length of 0.25 µm, were exposed to a laser beam with a wavelength of 404 nm (blue-ray) in order to investigate the main optical effects on the DC characteristics. Owing to the threshold shift and the charge generation, a marked increase of the gate and drain current was noticed. The occurrence of the kink effect in the absence of light exposure was identified, and a hypothesis about its origin is provided. The obtained results agree with the analysis previously carried out on gallium arsenide (GaAs)-based devices.
Eco-Friendly Materials for Daily-Life Inexpensive Printed Passive Devices: Towards “Do-It-Yourself” Electronics
Authors: Le Borgne Brice , Chung Bo-Yan , Tas Mehmet O. , King Simon G. , Harnois Maxime , Sporea Radu A.
Published: June 2019

The need for the fabrication of a new generation of devices has developed with the next generation of ‘home’ engineers, which is resulting in an ever-increasing population interested in “do-it-yourself” electronics and the Internet of Things. However, this new trend should not be done at the expense of the environment. Almost all previous studies, related to the low-temperature processing of devices, fail to highlight the extent of the impact that the synthesis of these technologies have on both the environment and human health. In addition, the substrates typically used, are also often associated with major drawbacks such as a lack of biodegradability. In this paper, we fabricate a simple RC filter using various domestically available printing techniques, utilising readily available materials such as: carbon soots (carbon black) as an electric conductor, and egg white (albumen) as a dielectric. These devices have been fabricated on both polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and paper, which demonstrated the same performances on both substrates and revealed that recyclable substrates can be used without compromise to the devices’ performance. The filter was found to exhibit a cut-off frequency of 170 kHz, which made it suitable for high-frequency reception applications.
Identification of Plasmodium falciparum Mitochondrial Malate: Quinone Oxidoreductase Inhibitors from the Pathogen Box
Authors: Wang Xinying , Miyazaki Yukiko , Inaoka Daniel Ken , Hartuti Endah Dwi , Watanabe Yoh-Ichi , Shiba Tomoo , Harada Shigeharu , Saimoto Hiroyuki , Burrows Jeremy Nicholas , Benito Francisco Javier Gamo , Nozaki Tomoyoshi , Kita Kiyoshi
Published: June 2019

Malaria is one of the three major global health threats. Drug development for malaria, especially for its most dangerous form caused by Plasmodium falciparum, remains an urgent task due to the emerging drug-resistant parasites. Exploration of novel antimalarial drug targets identified a trifunctional enzyme, malate quinone oxidoreductase (MQO), located in the mitochondrial inner membrane of P. falciparum (PfMQO). PfMQO is involved in the pathways of mitochondrial electron transport chain, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and fumarate cycle. Recent studies have shown that MQO is essential for P. falciparum survival in asexual stage and for the development of experiment cerebral malaria in the murine parasite P. berghei, providing genetic validation of MQO as a drug target. However, chemical validation of MQO, as a target, remains unexplored. In this study, we used active recombinant protein rPfMQO overexpressed in bacterial membrane fractions to screen a total of 400 compounds from the Pathogen Box, released by Medicines for Malaria Venture. The screening identified seven hit compounds targeting rPfMQO with an IC50 of under 5 μM. We tested the activity of hit compounds against the growth of 3D7 wildtype strain of P. falciparum, among which four compounds showed an IC50 from low to sub-micromolar concentrations, suggesting that PfMQO is indeed a potential antimalarial drug target.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analyses of the Chitinases under Cold and Osmotic Stress in Ammopiptanthus nanus
Authors: Cao Shilin , Wang Ying , Li Zhiqiang , Shi Wei , Gao Fei , Zhou Yijun , Zhang Genfa , Feng Jinchao
Published: June 2019

Chitinase is a kind of hydrolase with chitin as a substrate and is proposed to play an essential role in plant defense system by functioning against fungal pathogens through degrading chitin. Recent studies indicated chitinase is also involved in abiotic stress response in plants, helping plants to survive in stressful environments. A. nanus, a rare evergreen broad-leaved shrub distrusted in deserts in Central Asia, exhibits a high level of tolerance to drought and low temperature stresses. To identify the chitinase gene involved in drought and low temperature responses in A. nanus, we performed genome-wide identification, classification, sequence alignment, and spatio-temporal gene expression analysis of the chitinases in A. nanus under osmotic and low temperature stress. A total of 32 chitinase genes belonging to glycosyl hydrolase 18 (GH18) and GH19 families were identified from A. nanus. Class III chitinases appear to be amplified quantitatively in A. nanus, and their genes carry less introns, indicating their involvement in stress response in A. nanus. The expression level of the majority of chitinases varied in leaves, stems, and roots, and regulated under environmental stress. Some chitinases, such as EVM0022783, EVM0020238, and EVM0003645, are strongly induced by low temperature and osmotic stress, and the MYC/ICE1 (inducer of CBF expression 1) binding sites in promoter regions may mediate the induction of these chitinases under stress. These chitinases might play key roles in the tolerance to these abiotic stress in A. nanus and have potential for biotechnological applications. This study provided important data for understanding the biological functions of chitinases in A. nanus.
Classification of Red-Bed Rock Mass Structures and Slope Failure Modes in South China
Authors: Zhou Cuiying , Yang Xu , Liang Yanhao , Du Zichun , Liu Zhen , Huang Wei , Ming Weihua
Published: June 2019

Red beds are Meso–Cenozoic continental sedimentary strata that are mainly composed of gravel stone, sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, and shale and occasionally have interlayers of limestone, halite, and gypsum. As a typical rock mass, red beds are widely distributed throughout South China. In a typical tropical and subtropical continental environment, red beds are the product of multiple sedimentary cycles, which have resulted in complicated rock mass structures that play an important role in rock mass stability. It is thus of great significance to investigate the influence of different rock mass structures on the stability of red-bed slopes. In this paper, the geological formation history of red beds in South China is described. The main features of red-bed rock mass slopes in South China are discussed. The main combinations of inner geomechanical structures comprise: (1) mega-thick soft rock structures; (2) mega-thick hard rock structures; (3) thick hard rock structures with weak intercalation; and (4) soft–hard interbedded structures. In addition, the features of slope failure are analyzed, and four common failure modes are identified from the statistical data: (a) weathering spalling and scouring; (b) rock falls; (c) landslides; and (d) tensile dumping.
Beyond Scientific Mechanisms: Subjective Perceptions with Viniyoga Meditation
Authors: Heeter Carrie , Allbritton Marcel , Bossart Chase
Published: June 2019

Healthcare professionals and research scientists generally recognize the potential value of mind–body practices grounded in ancient wisdom, but often have limited direct experience with such practices. Meditation participant self-reports provide a window into subjective experiences of three Viniyoga meditations and how and why those meditations could contribute to health and well-being outcomes. Each of the meditations in this analysis had a unique structure and used a different aspect of the ocean as a meditation object. Yoga philosophy and yoga anatomy models of the human system are used to help explain participants’ experiences and associated personal benefits and insights. Four aspects of the individual that can influence what happens for them in meditation are illustrated with tangible examples: (1) What is happening in generally in someone’s life; (2) the state of their system (mind, body, breath) around the time of the meditation; (3) reactions to the meditation steps and instructions; and (4) their prior experiences with the object of meditation. Summaries of the practices, and why and for whom each meditation might be beneficial are discussed. The authors’ perspectives are grounded in Viniyoga and yoga therapy.
Estimating Autonomous Vehicle Localization Error Using 2D Geographic Information
Authors: Wong Kelvin , Javanmardi Ehsan , Javanmardi Mahdi , Kamijo Shunsuke
Published: June 2019

Accurately and precisely knowing the location of the vehicle is a critical requirement for safe and successful autonomous driving. Recent studies suggest that error for map-based localization methods are tightly coupled with the surrounding environment. Considering this relationship, it is therefore possible to estimate localization error by quantifying the representation and layout of real-world phenomena. To date, existing work on estimating localization error have been limited to using self-collected 3D point cloud maps. This paper investigates the use of pre-existing 2D geographic information datasets as a proxy to estimate autonomous vehicle localization error. Seven map evaluation factors were defined for 2D geographic information in a vector format, and random forest regression was used to estimate localization error for five experiment paths in Shinjuku, Tokyo. In the best model, the results show that it is possible to estimate autonomous vehicle localization error with 69.8% of predictions within 2.5 cm and 87.4% within 5 cm.
Prediction of Titanium Implant Success by Analysis of microRNA Expression in Peri-Implant Tissue. A 5-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Menini Maria , Pesce Paolo , Baldi Domenico , Coronel Vargas Gabriela , Pera Paolo , Izzotti Alberto
Published: June 2019

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the expression of microRNA (miRNA) in peri-implant soft tissue and to correlate epigenetic information with the clinical outcomes of the implants up to the five-year follow-up. Seven patients have been rehabilitated with fixed screw-retained bridges each supported by implants. Peri-implant bone resorption and soft tissue health parameters have been recorded over time with a five-year follow-up. Mini-invasive samples of soft peri-implant tissue have been taken three months after implant insertion. miRNA have been extracted from cells of the soft tissue samples to evaluate gene-expression at the implant sites by microarray analysis. The epigenomic data obtained by microarray technology has been statistically analyzed by dedicated software and compared with measured clinical parameters. Specific miRNA expression profiles predictive of specific clinical outcomes were found. In particular, some specific miRNA signatures appeared to be “protective” from bone resorption despite the presence of plaque accumulation. miRNA may be predictors of dental implant clinical outcomes and may be used as biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic purposes in the field of implant dentistry.
Preparation of a Master Fe–Cu Alloy by Smelting of a Cu-Bearing Direct Reduction Iron Powder
Authors: Pan Liaoting , Zhu Deqing , Guo Zhengqi , Pan Jian
Published: June 2019

Generally, the Cu-bearing direct reduction iron powder (CBDRI) obtained from a direct reduction-magnetic separation process of waste copper slag contains a high content of impurities and cannot be directly used to produce Cu-bearing special steel. In this paper, further smelting treatment of CBDRI was conducted to remove its impurities (such as S, SiO2, Al2O3, CaO and MgO) and acquire a high-quality Fe–Cu master alloy. The results show that the Fe–Cu master alloy, assaying 95.9% Fe, 1.4% Cu and minor impurities, can be obtained from the smelting process at 1550 °C for 40 min with 1.0 basicity. Meanwhile, the corresponding iron and copper recoveries are 98.6% and 97.2%, respectively. Theoretical calculations and experimental results show that appropriate basicity (0.9~1.1) is beneficial for the recovery of Fe and Cu from a thermodynamic viewpoint due to the excellent fluidity of the slag in this basicity range. Moreover, the mechanism of desulfurization was revealed by calculating the sulfide capacity and the desulfurization reaction kinetics. Increasing the binary basicity of the slag benefits both the sulfide capacity and diffusion coefficient of the sulfur in the molten slag, resulting in higher desulfurization efficiency and lower S content in the master alloy.
Application of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents in the Extraction of Quercetin from Vegetables
Authors: Dai Yunliang , Row Kyung Ho
Published: June 2019

Quercetin is a phytochemical with disease prevention and health promotion activities that has attracted significant research attention. In this study, choline chloride and betaine-based natural deep eutectic solvents were prepared using a heating method. Their physical and chemical properties were also tested. Then, they were applied to extract quercetin from onion and broccoli with ultrasonic-assisted solid liquid method coupled with HPLC. Three factors (temperature, amount, and time) were considered for the optimization of the extraction assays. In the optimal conditions, the extraction recoveries were 88.91–98.99%, 88.45–99.01%, and 89.56–98.74% for quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol. Tailor-made natural deep eutectic solvents could be applied as sustainable and safe extraction media for biochemical applications.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Culture Supernatant of a Bacterium Pseudomonas rhodesiae and Their Antibacterial Activity against Soft Rot Pathogen Dickeya dadantii
Authors: Hossain Afsana , Hong Xianxian , Ibrahim Ezzeldin , Li Bin , Sun Guochang , Meng Youqing , Wang Yanli , An Qianli
Published: June 2019

Bacterial stem and root rot disease of sweet potato caused by Dickeya dadantii recently broke out in major sweet potato planting areas in China and calls for effective approaches to control the pathogen and disease. Here, we developed a simple method for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using bacterial culture supernatants. AgNPs synthesized with the cell-free culture supernatant of a bacterium Pseudomonas rhodesiae displayed the characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak at 420–430 nm and as nanocrystallites in diameters of 20–100 nm determined by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. Functional groups associated with proteins in the culture supernatant may reduce silver ions and stabilize AgNPs. The AgNPs showed antibacterial activities against D. dadantii growth, swimming motility, biofilm formation, and maceration of sweet potato tubers whereas the culture supernatant of P. rhodesiae did not. AgNPs (12 µg∙ml−1) and AgNO3 (50 µg∙ml−1) showed close antibacterial activities. The antibacterial activities increased with the increase of AgNP concentrations. The green-synthesized AgNPs can be used to control the soft rot disease by control of pathogen contamination of sweet potato seed tubers.
The DIVER Microscope for Imaging in Scattering Media
Authors: Dvornikov Alexander , Malacrida Leonel , Gratton Enrico
Published: June 2019

We describe an advanced DIVER (Deep Imaging Via Emission Recovery) detection system for two-photon fluorescence microscopy that allows imaging in multiple scattering media, including biological tissues, up to a depth of a few mm with micron resolution. This detection system is more sensitive to low level light signals than conventional epi-detection used in two-photon fluorescence microscopes. The DIVER detector efficiently collects scattered emission photons from a wide area of turbid samples at almost any entrance angle in a 2π spherical angle. Using an epi-detection scheme only photons coming from a relatively small area of a sample and at narrow acceptance angle can be detected. The transmission geometry of the DIVER imaging system makes it exceptionally suitable for Second and Third Harmonic Generation (SHG, THG) signal detection. It also has in-depth fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) capability. Using special optical filters with sin-cos spectral response, hyperspectral analysis of images acquired in-depth in scattering media can be performed. The system was successfully employed in imaging of various biological tissues. The DIVER detector can be plugged into a standard microscope stage and used as an external detector with upright commercial two-photon microscopes.
Activation of Insulin Signaling in Adipocytes and Myotubes by Sarcopoterium Spinosum Extract
Authors: Ben-Shachar Michaella , Rozenberg Konstantin , Skalka Nir , Wollman Ayala , Michlin Michal , Rosenzweig Tovit
Published: June 2019

Sarcopoterium spinosum (S. spinosum) is a medicinal plant, traditionally used as an antidiabetic remedy. Previous studies demonstrated its beneficial properties in the treatment of insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to further clarify the effect of S. spinosum extract (SSE) on insulin signaling. Phosphoproteomic analysis, performed in 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated with SSE, revealed the activation of insulin receptor pathways. SSE increased Glut4-facilitated glucose uptake in adipocytes, with an additive effect between SSE and insulin. While the maximal effect of insulin on glucose uptake was found at days 15–16 of differentiation, SSE-induced glucose uptake was found at an earlier stage of differentiation. Inhibition of PI3K and Akt blocked SSE-dependent glucose uptake. Western blot analysis, performed on 3T3-L1 adipocytes and L6 myotubes, showed that in contrast to insulin action, Akt was only marginally phosphorylated by SSE. Furthermore, GSK3β and PRAS40 phosphorylation as well as glucose uptake were increased by the extract. SSE also induced the phosphorylation of ERK similar to insulin. In conclusion, SSE activates insulin signaling, although the upstream event mediating its effects should be further clarified. Identifying the active molecules in SSE may lead to the development of new agents for the treatment of insulin resistance.
Association between High Waist-to-Height Ratio and Cardiovascular Risk among Adults Sampled by the 2016 Half-Way National Health and Nutrition Survey in Mexico (ENSANUT MC 2016)
Authors: Rangel-Baltazar Eduardo , Cuevas-Nasu Lucia , Shamah-Levy Teresa , Rodríguez-Ramírez Sonia , Méndez-Gómez-Humarán Ignacio , Rivera Juan A
Published: June 2019

Little evidence exists regarding the association between waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and cardiovascular risk (CVR) factors in Mexican adults. Our study pursued a twofold objective: To describe the association between a high WHtR and CVR indicators among Mexican adults canvassed by the 2016 Half-Way National Health and Nutrition Survey, and to examine the interaction of sex and age on this association. We analyzed data from the adult sample (≥20 years old) and classified in two groups using WHtRs ≥0.5 considered high and low otherwise. The following CVR factors were analyzed: High-total-cholesterol (≥200 mg/dL), low high-density-lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c < 40 mg/dL), high low-density-lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c ≥ 130 mg/dL), high triglycerides (≥150 mg/dL), insulin resistance (IR) (HOMA-IR) (≥2.6), and hypertension (HBP) (≥140/≥90 mmHg). We estimated prevalence ratios (PR) to analyze the association between high WHtRs and CVR indicators. Over 90% of participants had high WHtRs and were at greater risk for dyslipidemias, HBP, and IR compared to those that had low WHtRs. PR for men with high WHtRs were between 1.3 to 2.3 for dyslipidemias, 3.4 for HBP and 7.6 for IR; among women were between 1.8 to 2.4 for dyslipidemias and HBP and 5.9 for IR (p < 0.05). A high WHtR is associated with CVR factors in Mexican adults.
Immunomodulatory and Metabolic Changes after Gnetin-C Supplementation in Humans
Authors: Nakagami Yuya , Suzuki Susumu , Espinoza J. Luis , Vu Quang Lam , Enomoto Megumi , Takasugi Souichi , Nakamura Ayano , Nakayama Takayuki , Tani Hiroya , Hanamura Ichiro , Takami Akiyoshi
Published: June 2019

Gnetin-C is a naturally occurring stilbene derived from the seeds of Gnetum gnemon L., an edible plant native to Southeast Asia that is called melinjo. Although the biological properties and safety of G. gnemon extract, which contains nearly 3% Gnetin-C, have been confirmed in various human studies, whether or not pure Gnetin-C is safe for humans is unclear at present. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Healthy subjects were randomly divided into two groups. The interventional group (n = 6) was given Gnetin-C, and the control group (n = 6) was provided a placebo, for 14 days. Lipid profiles, biomarkers of oxidative stress and circulating blood cells were assessed before and after the intervention. All subjects completed the study, with no side effects reported across the study duration. Gnetin-C supplementation demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the absolute number of circulating natural killer (NK) cells expressing the activating receptors NKG2D and NKp46. NK cells derived from subjects who received Gnetin-C for two weeks showed higher cytotoxicity against K562 target cells than those before receiving Gnetin-C. In addition, Gnetin-C also resulted in a significant decrease in the absolute neutrophil count in the blood compared with the placebo. Furthermore, Gnetin-C significantly reduced the levels of uric acid, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total adiponectin, and high-molecular-weight adiponectin. These data indicate that Gnetin-C has biological effects of enhancing the NK activity on circulating human immune cells. The immunomodulatory effects are consistent with a putative improvement in cancer immunosurveillance via the upregulation of the NKG2D receptor. The study was registered with UMIN-CTR, number 000030364, on 12 December 2017.
Adaptation and Validation of Alternative Healthy Eating Index in Hemodialysis Patients (AHEI-HD) and Its Association with all-Cause Mortality: A Multi-Center Follow-Up Study
Authors: Van Duong Tuyen , Tseng I-Hsin , Wong Te-Chih , Chen Hsi-Hsien , Chen Tso-Hsiao , Hsu Yung-Ho , Peng Sheng-Jeng , Kuo Ko-Lin , Liu Hsiang-Chung , Lin En-Tzu , Feng Yi-Wei , Yang Shwu-Huey
Published: June 2019

A valid diet quality assessment scale has not been investigated in hemodialysis patients. We aimed to adapt and validate the alternative healthy eating index in hemodialysis patients (AHEI-HD), and investigate its associations with all-cause mortality. A prospective study was conducted on 370 hemodialysis patients from seven hospital-based dialysis centers. Dietary data (using three independent 24-hour dietary records), clinical and laboratory parameters were collected. The construct and criterion validity of original AHEI-2010 with 11 items and the AHEI-HD with 16 items were examined. Both scales showed reasonable item-scale correlations and satisfactory discriminant validity. The AHEI-HD demonstrated a weaker correlation with energy intake compared with AHEI-2010. Principle component analysis yielded the plateau scree plot line in AHEI-HD but not in AHEI-2010. In comparison with patients in lowest diet quality (tertile 1), those in highest diet quality (tertile 3) had significantly lower risk for death, with a hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of HR: 0.40; 95%CI: 0.18 – 0.90; p = 0.028, as measured by AHEI-2010, and HR: 0.37; 95%CI: 0.17–0.82; p = 0.014 as measured by AHEI-HD, respectively. In conclusion, AHEI-HD was shown to have greater advantages than AHEI-2010. AHEI-HD was suggested for assessments of diet quality in hemodialysis patients.
Thermal Conductivity and Electrical Resistivity of Melt-Mixed Polypropylene Composites Containing Mixtures of Carbon-Based Fillers
Authors: Krause Beate , Rzeczkowski Piotr , Pötschke Petra
Published: June 2019

Melt-mixed composites based on polypropylene (PP) with various carbon-based fillers were investigated with regard to their thermal conductivity and electrical resistivity. The composites were filled with up to three fillers by selecting combinations of graphite nanoplatelets (GNP), carbon fibers (CF), carbon nanotubes (CNT), carbon black (CB), and graphite (G) at a constant filler content of 7.5 vol%. The thermal conductivity of PP (0.26 W/(m·K)) improved most using graphite nanoplatelets, whereas electrical resistivity was the lowest when using multiwalled CNT. Synergistic effects could be observed for different filler combinations. The PP composite, which contains a mixture of GNP, CNT, and highly structured CB, simultaneously had high thermal conductivity (0.5 W/(m·K)) and the lowest electrical volume resistivity (4 Ohm·cm).
Multitemporal Chlorophyll Mapping in Pome Fruit Orchards from Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems
Authors: Vanbrabant Yasmin , Tits Laurent , Delalieux Stephanie , Pauly Klaas , Verjans Wim , Somers Ben
Published: June 2019

Early and precise spatio-temporal monitoring of tree vitality is key for steering management decisions in pome fruit orchards. Spaceborne remote sensing instruments face a tradeoff between spatial and spectral resolution, while manned aircraft sensor-platform systems are very expensive. In order to address the shortcomings of these platforms, this study investigates the potential of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) to facilitate rapid, low cost, and flexible chlorophyll monitoring. Due to the complexity of orchard scenery a robust chlorophyll retrieval model on RPAS level has not yet been developed. In this study, specific focus therefore lies on evaluating the sensitivity of retrieval models to confounding factors. For this study, multispectral and hyperspectral imagery was collected over pome fruit orchards. Sensitivities of both univariate and multivariate retrieval models were demonstrated under different species, phenology, shade, and illumination scenes. Results illustrate that multivariate models have a significantly higher accuracy than univariate models as the former provide accuracies for the canopy chlorophyll content retrieval of R2 = 0.80 and Relative Root Mean Square Error (RRMSE) = 12% for the hyperspectral sensor. Random forest regression on multispectral imagery (R2 > 0.9 for May, June, July, and August, and R2 = 0.5 for October) and hyperspectral imagery (0.6 < R2 < 0.9) led to satisfactory high and consistent accuracies for all months.
Evaluation of Atmospheric Correction Algorithms over Spanish Inland Waters for Sentinel-2 Multi Spectral Imagery Data
Authors: Pereira-Sandoval Marcela , Ruescas Ana , Urrego Patricia , Ruiz-Verdú Antonio , Delegido Jesús , Tenjo Carolina , Soria-Perpinyà Xavier , Vicente Eduardo , Soria Juan , Moreno José
Published: June 2019

The atmospheric contribution constitutes about 90 percent of the signal measured by satellite sensors over oceanic and inland waters. Over open ocean waters, the atmospheric contribution is relatively easy to correct as it can be assumed that water-leaving radiance in the near-infrared (NIR) is equal to zero and it can be performed by applying a relatively simple dark-pixel-correction-based type of algorithm. Over inland and coastal waters, this assumption cannot be made since the water-leaving radiance in the NIR is greater than zero due to the presence of water components like sediments and dissolved organic particles. The aim of this study is to determine the most appropriate atmospheric correction processor to be applied on Sentinel-2 MultiSpectral Imagery over several types of inland waters. Retrievals obtained from different atmospheric correction processors (i.e., Atmospheric correction for OLI ‘lite’ (ACOLITE), Case 2 Regional Coast Colour (here called C2RCC), Case 2 Regional Coast Colour for Complex waters (here called C2RCCCX), Image correction for atmospheric effects (iCOR), Polynomial-based algorithm applied to MERIS (Polymer) and Sen2Cor or Sentinel 2 Correction) are compared against in situ reflectance measured in lakes and reservoirs in the Valencia region (Spain). Polymer and C2RCC are the processors that give back the best statistics, with coefficients of determination higher than 0.83 and mean average errors less than 0.01. An evaluation of the performance based on water types and single bands–classification based on ranges of in situ chlorophyll-a concentration and Secchi disk depth values- showed that performance of these set of processors is better for relatively complex waters. ACOLITE, iCOR and Sen2Cor had a better performance when applied to meso- and hyper-eutrophic waters, compare with oligotrophic. However, other considerations should also be taken into account, like the elevation of the lakes above sea level, their distance from the sea and their morphology.
Integrated Use of Humic Acid and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria to Ensure Higher Potato Productivity in Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Ekin Zehra
Published: June 2019

In sustainable agriculture, seeking eco-friendly methods to promote plant growth and improve crop productivity is a priority. Humic acid (HA) and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are among the most effective methods that utilize natural biologically-active substances. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of the presence of HA on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) inoculation with PGPR (Bacillus megatorium and Bacillus subtilis) when compared to control and recommended doses of NPK. Seed tubers treated by humic acid (200, 400, and 600 kg ha−1) and PGPR, separately or in combination, and NPK (50% and 100%) were planted into soil and untreated soil. Treatments were assessed for plant growth, classified tuber yields, quality, and mineral contents of potato tubers. There were highly significant increases in potato growth, tuber yields, and quality in PGPR and HA inoculated crops. Tuber size, weight, specific gravity, dry matter, starch, protein, and mineral contents (except Cu) were improved with PGPR treatments and further increased when administered with humic acids. Inoculation with PGPR mixed culture and 400 kg ha−1 HA increased total potato tuber yield by about 140% while conventional single treatment of 100% NPK fertilizer only led to an increase in potato production of 111% when compared to the control. The results demonstrated that this integrated approach has the potential to accelerate the transformation from conventional to sustainable potato production.
A Study of the Spatial Difference of the Soil Quality of The Mun River Basin during the Rainy Season
Authors: Wu Chunsheng , Liu Qingsheng , Ma Guoxia , Liu Gaohuan , Yu Fang , Huang Chong , Zhao Zhonghe , Liang Li
Published: June 2019

The Mun River basin is one of the main grain-producing areas of Thailand, and the rainy season is the main period for crop planting after being idle during the dry season. However, the soil conditions are variable, so an assessment of soil quality during the rainy season is necessary for improving soil condition and crop production. The aim of this study was to conduct a soil quality assessment based on soil samples. To attain that, a minimum data set theory was used to screen evaluation indicators and geographically weighted regression was performed to obtain spatial interpolations of indicators, while the fuzzy logic model was used to determine the soil quality results. The results showed that the contents of indicators had similar spatial trends as their contents declined from the western to the eastern region of the basin. The soil quality results showed that the poor soil was in the middle of the basin, where the main land use is paddy fields, and the good soil was in the southwest of the basin, where forests and dry fields are widely distributed. The results indicated that the soil quality in the Mun River basin varied greatly, especially for farmland, so these findings will be helpful for improving soil conditions and grain production in the Mun River basin.