bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peficitinib Inhibits the Chemotactic Activity of Monocytes via Proinflammatory Cytokine Production in Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes
Authors: Ikari Yuzo , Isozaki Takeo , Tsubokura Yumi , Kasama Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2019

Background: This study was performed to examine the effects of the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor peficitinib on fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) obtained from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: To examine the expression of JAK1, JAK2, and JAK3 in RA synovial tissue (ST) and FLS, immunohistochemistry was performed. We investigated the effects of peficitinib on interleukin 6 and IL-6 receptor responses in RA FLS. Phosphorylation of STAT was determined by western blot. To examine the functional analysis of peficitinib, we performed a proliferation and chemotaxis assays with FLS using THP-1 and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The inflammatory mediator expression of FLS was estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: JAK1, JAK2, and JAK3 were expressed in RA STs and FLS. Phosphorylation of STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 in RA FLS was suppressed by peficitinib in a concentration-dependent manner. Peficitinib-treated RA FLS-conditioned medium reduced THP-1 and PBMC migration (p < 0.05) and proliferation of RA FLS (p < 0.05). Peficitinib suppressed the secretion of MCP-1/CCL2 in the RA FLS supernatant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Peficitinib suppressed the JAK-STAT pathway in RA FLS and also suppressed monocyte chemotaxis and proliferation of FLS through inhibition of inflammatory cytokines.
Autophagy in Synucleinopathy: The Overwhelmed and Defective Machinery
Authors: Arotcarena Marie-Laure , Teil Margaux , Dehay Benjamin
Published: June 2019

Alpha-synuclein positive-intracytoplasmic inclusions are the common denominators of the synucleinopathies present as Lewy bodies in Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, or glial cytoplasmic inclusions in multiple system atrophy. These neurodegenerative diseases also exhibit cellular dyshomeostasis, such as autophagy impairment. Several decades of research have questioned the potential link between the autophagy machinery and alpha-synuclein protein toxicity in synucleinopathy and neurodegenerative processes. Here, we aimed to discuss the active participation of autophagy impairment in alpha-synuclein accumulation and propagation, as well as alpha-synuclein-independent neurodegenerative processes in the field of synucleinopathy. Therapeutic approaches targeting the restoration of autophagy have started to emerge as relevant strategies to reverse pathological features in synucleinopathies.
Recent Research Advances in Mitosis during Mammalian Gametogenesis
Authors: Wang Jia-Hao , Li Yan , Deng Shou-Long , Liu Yi-Xun , Lian Zheng-Xing , Yu Kun
Published: June 2019

Mitosis is a highly sophisticated and well-regulated process during the development and differentiation of mammalian gametogenesis. The regulation of mitosis plays an essential role in keeping the formulation in oogenesis and gametogenesis. In the past few years, substantial research progress has been made by showing that cyclins/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) have roles in the regulation of meiosis. In addition, more functional signaling molecules have been discovered in mitosis. Growing evidence has also indicated that miRNAs influence cell cycling. In this review, we focus on specific genes, cyclins/Cdk, signaling pathways/molecules, and miRNAs to discuss the latest achievements in understanding their roles in mitosis during gametogenesis. Further elucidation of mitosis during gametogenesis may facilitate delineating all processes of mammalian reproduction and the development of disease treatments.
An Emerin LEM-Domain Mutation Impairs Cell Response to Mechanical Stress
Authors: Essawy Nada , Samson Camille , Petitalot Ambre , Moog Sophie , Bigot Anne , Herrada Isaline , Marcelot Agathe , Arteni Ana-Andreea , Coirault Catherine , Zinn-Justin Sophie
Published: June 2019

Emerin is a nuclear envelope protein that contributes to genome organization and cell mechanics. Through its N-terminal LAP2-emerin-MAN1 (LEM)-domain, emerin interacts with the DNA-binding protein barrier-to-autointegration (BAF). Emerin also binds to members of the linker of the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex. Mutations in the gene encoding emerin are responsible for the majority of cases of X-linked Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (X-EDMD). Most of these mutations lead to an absence of emerin. A few missense and short deletion mutations in the disordered region of emerin are also associated with X-EDMD. More recently, missense and short deletion mutations P22L, ∆K37 and T43I were discovered in emerin LEM-domain, associated with isolated atrial cardiac defects (ACD). Here we reveal which defects, at both the molecular and cellular levels, are elicited by these LEM-domain mutations. Whereas ΔK37 mutation impaired the correct folding of the LEM-domain, P22L and T43I had no impact on the 3D structure of emerin. Surprisingly, all three mutants bound to BAF, albeit with a weaker affinity in the case of ΔK37. In human myofibroblasts derived from a patient’s fibroblasts, emerin ∆K37 was correctly localized at the inner nuclear membrane, but was present at a significantly lower level, indicating that this mutant is abnormally degraded. Moreover, SUN2 was reduced, and these cells were defective in producing actin stress fibers when grown on a stiff substrate and after cyclic stretches. Altogether, our data suggest that the main effect of mutation ΔK37 is to perturb emerin function within the LINC complex in response to mechanical stress.
Effect of Cr Doping Concentration on the Structural, Optical, and Electrical Properties of Lead Sulfide (PbS) Nanofilms
Authors: Huo Jiabin , Li Wei , Wang Teng
Published: June 2019

In this paper, pristine and Cr-doped lead sulfide (PbS) nanofilms were prepared by chemical and deposition methods. From X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, all nanofilm samples possessed good crystallinity with a preferential orientation of the (200) crystal plane. As the Cr doping concentration increased, the nanofilm grain size decreased from 71.5 to 18.9 nm. The SEM results revealed that the variation in Cr concentration led to different grain shapes, and the grain size became smaller with the increasing doping concentrations. Optical studies showed that the optical band gap of PbS films increased from 1.21 to 1.60 eV after Cr doping due to the quantum confinement effect; the 2% Cr-doped PbS nanofilm, with an Eg of 1.49 eV, matched the ideal band-gap value. The electrical characterization showed that, for a 2% Cr doping concentration, the Hall mobility and volume carrier concentration of the nanofilm reached the maximum values of 59.6 cm2∙V−1 s−1 and 20.7 × 1016 cm−3 respectively. The 2 at.% Cr-doped PbS nanofilms exhibited the best optical and electrical properties, suitable for solar cell applications.
The Influence of Selective Laser Melting Process Parameters on the Property of TiAlN/TiN Multilayer Coating on the 316L Steel
Authors: Lyu Yueling , Wang Jingwei , Wan Yulin , Chen Yangzhi
Published: June 2019

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an important advanced additive manufacturing technology. The existing SLM products cannot fully meet the requirements of high-precision and strength of the mechanical component because of their defects. The TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating can improve the surface property of SLM products. The present work aims to explore the influences of different process parameters of SLM on the property of TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating plating on the 361L specimen and the mechanism of these influences. Taking laser power, scanning speed, and scanning space as factors, an orthogonal experiment was designed. The TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating specimens can be obtained by plating on the 361L specimen, fabricated by the process parameters of SLM on the orthogonal experiment. The surface topographies and properties of TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating were tested, the influences of SLM process parameters on TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating were analyzed, and the optimal process parameter was obtained. The electron microscope images revealed that the surface morphology of TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating plating on the SLM specimen was relatively flat, and there were some macro-particles in different sizes and pin holes dispersed on it. The thickness of the TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating was 2.77–3.29 μm. The microhardness value of coating SLM specimen was more than four times that of the uncoated SLM specimen and the wear rates of the uncoated specimen were 2–4 times that of the corresponding coating specimen. The comprehensive analysis shows that the laser power had the greatest influence on the comprehensive property of the coating. The primary cause of the influence of SLM process parameters on the properties of the TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating was preliminarily discussed. When the laser power was 170 W, the scanning speed was 1,100 mm/s, and the scanning space was 0.08mm, the TiAlN/TiN multilayer coating plating on the SLM specimen had the best comprehensive property.
Stress Heterogeneity Leading to Void Nucleation within Spherulites for Semi-Crystalline Polymers
Authors: Laiarinandrasana Lucien
Published: June 2019

Linking the microstructure to the mechanical properties is a key feature in the design and assessment of the durability of semi-crystalline polymers. This paper addresses the importance of a particular architecture inside spherulites. The use of the theoretical tools of continuum mechanics has been combined with experimental observations of the deformation of the microstructure. Microstructural heterogeneities at various scales induced critical regions in the spherulite where voiding has been reported. The local stress state has been investigated using a Finite Element code. A simple Hooke’s law was used for meshes accounting for the alternating crystalline and amorphous lamellae. This allowed a better understanding of the loci of void nucleation in the equatorial region, as well as in the “polar fans”, and were explained by using a criterion based on stress equi-triaxiality.
Simulation Research on Auxiliary Power Supply System of China Standard EMU
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Yun Lansi , Sun Minghe , Peng Bo
Published: June 2019

The auxiliary power supply system is an important part of the China standard EMU (Electric Multiple Units). It is mainly composed of auxiliary converters, chargers, battery packs and several loads. According to the topology of the EMU real auxiliary power supply system, the whole simulation system including the auxiliary converter, charger, single-phase inverter and other single models is built, and the internal working principle and working process of the system are studied. The auxiliary converter adopts the droop control method introducing virtual impedance to reduce the circulation effect of the parallel system. Combined with the battery pack charging characteristic curve, the constant current and constant voltage step-by-step charging management strategy is studied. The actual operating conditions of the system are simulated according to the auxiliary power supply system control logic. The system-level simulation on the MATLAB/Simulink platform shows that the output performance of each component is good, working in the rated parameters and meeting the working requirements of the auxiliary power supply system. Finally, the rationality, stability and robustness of the auxiliary power supply system model are proved by simulation and experimental comparison. This research provides a certain theoretical basis for the research of China standard EMU auxiliary power supply system, which has a certain significance.
Fractional Differential Generalization of the Single Particle Model of a Lithium-Ion Cell
Authors: Sibatov Renat T. , Svetukhin Vyacheslav V. , Kitsyuk Evgeny P. , Pavlov Alexander A.
Published: June 2019

The effect of anomalous diffusion of lithium on the discharge curves and impedance spectra of lithium-ion batteries (LIB) is studied within the fractional differential generalization of the single-particle model. The distribution of lithium ions in electrolyte and electrode particles is expressed through the Mittag–Leffler function and the Lévy stable density. Using the new model, we generalize the equivalent circuit of LIB. The slope of the low-frequency rectilinear part of the Nyquist diagram does not always unambiguously determine the subdiffusion index and can be either larger or smaller than the slope corresponding to normal diffusion. The new aspect of capacity degradation related to a change in the type of ion diffusion in LIB components is discussed.
Automated Network Topology Extraction Based on Graph Theory for Distributed Microgrid Protection in Dynamic Power Systems
Authors: Ustun Taha Selim , Ayyubi Saqib
Published: June 2019

Unlike conventional grids, microgrids may utilize different connections and the overall topology can be variable. Considering this, it is required to develop a new protection concept/scheme for safe operation. Maintaining proper selective operation of the relays in these dynamic microgrid structures is a challenge itself. This requires monitoring the connections and updating time delays of the relays which will ensure the desired hierarchy in the system. In this paper, a novel approach has been taken where electrical networks are modeled according to graph theory. Smart algorithms, such as network graph discovery, local manager selection, and protection coordination strategy, are run to automatically detect topology changes and ensure proper protection operation. Furthermore, distributed nature of this method mitigates the risks associated with central controller-based schemes. The developed method is applicable to all power system operations, and it poses a unique implementation in postdisaster recovery. After a disaster or terror attack, this self-diagnosis, self-healing system can identify healthy sections and run them as a standalone system until the relief arrives. The ability of the protection system to be run as a distributed control makes sure that any healthy part of the system can be restructured and utilized, without the dependency, on any central controller or connection.
Emissivity Characteristics of Hydrocarbon Flame and Temperature Measurement by Color Image Processing
Authors: Lin Junyi , Zhang Xiangyu , Liu Kaiyun , Zhang Wenjie
Published: June 2019

Non-gray radiation should be considered in the temperature and emissivity measurements of hydrocarbon flames. In this paper an improved ratio pyrometry by spectral analysis and color image processing is proposed. A Newton-type iterative method is utilized to analyze the spectrometer signals for the detection of monochromatic emissivity, and then the ratio pyrometry based on color image processing is corrected by the detected monochromatic emissivity without making approximations of the filter profiles of CCD camera. The experiments were conducted on a tubular heating furnace with coal gas and a propane flame. The spectral and spatial distributions of emissivity of hydrocarbon flame were detected, and the temperature measurement results at four conditions coincided with the thermocouple with relative errors less than 8.34%. The soot volume fractions in the turbulent diffusion hydrocarbon flame were approximately estimated from the detected emissivity, and are influenced by the O/C in the combustion. This study will provide a simple and effective method for the detection of non-gray radiation of hydrocarbon flames in the combustion industry.
Building an Organic Solar Cell: Fundamental Procedures for Device Fabrication
Authors: Anagnostou Katerina , Stylianakis Minas M. , Petridis Konstantinos , Kymakis Emmanuel
Published: June 2019

This laboratory experiment is designed to train undergraduate students in the fundamental steps followed in engineering solution-processed organic solar cells and to offer insight on the operating principles of said device. Bulk heterojunction (BHJ) organic solar cells represent a photovoltaic architecture which has attracted a lot of attention due to its promising properties; moreover, this architecture, due to its low cost and potential, is continuously being investigated and improved. This paper is intended as a useful step-by-step guide for students and researchers to learn how to construct such a device. Another primary objective of this article is to highlight the importance of optimizing device performance through enhancing the optical, electrical, and morphological properties of the materials selected as building blocks. Once a completed organic solar cell is made, students will also learn how to investigate and assess its performance through a series of spectroscopic, electrical, and morphological characterization measurements.
Wave Power Output Smoothing through the Use of a High-Speed Kinetic Buffer
Authors: Rojas-Delgado Brenda , Alonso Monica , Amaris Hortensia , de Santiago Juan
Published: June 2019

In this paper, a new control strategy for power output smoothing in a hybrid wave energy installation coupled to a flywheel energy storage system (FESS) is proposed. The control scheme is composed by three stages: a wave generator clustering process at the farm connection point; a power filtering process; and the control of the flywheel energy storage in order to improve the power output of the hybrid wave farm. The proposed control is validated at the existing Lysekil Wave Energy Site located in Sweden, by using real generator measurements. Results show that the application of the flywheel energy storage system reduces the maximum peak power output from the wave energy installation by 85% and the peak/average power ratio by 76%. It is shown that the proposed system can reduce grid losses by 51%, consequently improving the energy efficiency of the power network. The application of the proposed control strategy allows the hybrid wave power plant to follow a power reference signal that is imposed by the grid operator. In addition, the study demonstrates that the application of the proposed control allows the hybrid wave power plant to follow a power reference signal that is imposed by the grid operator. In addition, the study demonstrates that the application of the proposed control enables a wave farm with flywheel energy storage to be a controllable, flexible resource in order to fulfill future grid code requirements for marine energy installations.
Improving Performance of Far Users in Cognitive Radio: Exploiting NOMA and Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Van Nguyen Minh-Sang , Do Dinh-Thuan , Voznak Miroslav
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we examine non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) and relay selection strategy to benefit extra advantage from traditional cognitive radio (CR) relaying systems. The most important requirement to prolong lifetime of such network is employing energy harvesting in the relay to address network with limited power constraint. In particular, we study such energy harvesting CR-NOMA using amplify-and-forward (AF) scheme to improve performance far NOMA users. To further address such problem, two schemes are investigated in term of number of selected relays. To further examine system performance, the outage performance needs to be studied for such wireless powered CR-NOMA network over Rayleigh channels. The accurate expressions for the outage probability are derived to perform outage comparison of primary network and secondary network. The analytical results show clearly that position of these nodes, transmit signal to noise ratio (SNR) and power allocation coefficients result in varying outage performance. As main observation, performance gap between primary and secondary destination is decided by both power allocation factors and selection mode of single relay or multiple relays. Numerical studies were conducted to verify our derivations.
A Novel Detection Algorithm to Identify False Data Injection Attacks on Power System State Estimation
Authors: Ganjkhani Mehdi , Fallah Seyedeh Narjes , Badakhshan Sobhan , Shamshirband Shahaboddin , Chau Kwok-wing
Published: June 2019

This paper provides a novel bad data detection processor to identify false data injection attacks (FDIAs) on the power system state estimation. The attackers are able to alter the result of the state estimation virtually intending to change the result of the state estimation without being detected by the bad data processors. However, using a specific configuration of an artificial neural network (ANN), named nonlinear autoregressive exogenous (NARX), can help to identify the injected bad data in state estimation. Considering the high correlation between power system measurements as well as state variables, the proposed neural network-based approach is feasible to detect any potential FDIAs. Two different strategies of FDIAs have been simulated in power system state estimation using IEEE standard 14-bus test system for evaluating the performance of the proposed method. The results indicate that the proposed bad data detection processor is able to detect the false injected data launched into the system accurately.
Enzymatic Pea Protein Hydrolysates Are Active Trypsin and Chymotrypsin Inhibitors
Authors: Awosika Temitola , Aluko Rotimi E.
Published: June 2019

In this work, we report the potency of enzymatic hydrolysates of pea proteins against trypsin and chymotrypsin. Pea protein concentrate was digested with each of alcalase, chymotrypsin, pepsin, and trypsin, followed by membrane separation of the protein hydrolysates into peptide fractions (<1, 1–3, 3–5, and 5–10 kDa). Peptide size profiling with size-exclusion gel chromatography indicated the narrowest size range (0.85–4.98 kDa) for alcalase. Trypsin activity was strongly (p < 0.05) inhibited by the ultrafiltration fractions (mean IC50 = 2.2 mg/mL) obtained from the trypsin hydrolysate when compared to the unfractionated hydrolysate (IC50 = 6.8 mg/mL). Similarly, ultrafiltration also enhanced trypsin inhibition by the alcalase-digested peptides with an IC50 of 21.4 mg/mL for the unfractionated hydrolysate in comparison to 3.1–4.7 mg/mL for the fractions. However, ultrafiltration did not enhance trypsin inhibitory activity of chymotrypsin-digested peptides, while the peptide separation reduced efficacy of pepsin-digested peptides. In contrast, chymotrypsin inhibition by all the enzymatic digests was significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced by ultrafiltration, especially peptide sizes >3 kDa. Kinetics of enzyme inhibition indicate peptides were bound to the enzyme active site in a competitive mode that led to reduced catalysis. We conclude that the pea peptides could function as useful tools to promote human health and as a preservative during food processing and storage.
Detection of Transgenes in Gene Delivery Model Mice by Adenoviral Vector Using ddPCR
Authors: Sugasawa Takehito , Aoki Kai , Watanabe Koichi , Yanazawa Koki , Natsume Tohru , Takemasa Tohru , Yamaguchi Kaori , Takeuchi Yoshinori , Aita Yuichi , Yahagi Naoya , Yoshida Yasuko , Tokinoya Katsuyuki , Sekine Nanami , Takeuchi Kaoru , Ueda Haruna , Kawakami Yasushi , Shimizu Satoshi , Takekoshi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2019

With the rapid progress of genetic engineering and gene therapy, the World Anti-Doping Agency has been alerted to gene doping and prohibited its use in sports. However, there is no standard method available yet for the detection of transgenes delivered by recombinant adenoviral (rAdV) vectors. Here, we aim to develop a detection method for transgenes delivered by rAdV vectors in a mouse model that mimics gene doping. These rAdV vectors containing the mCherry gene was delivered in mice through intravenous injection or local muscular injection. After five days, stool and whole blood samples were collected, and total DNA was extracted. As additional experiments, whole blood was also collected from the mouse tail tip until 15 days from injection of the rAdv vector. Transgene fragments from different DNA samples were analyzed using semi-quantitative PCR (sqPCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). In the results, transgene fragments could be directly detected from blood cell fraction DNA, plasma cell-free DNA, and stool DNA by qPCR and ddPCR, depending on specimen type and injection methods. We observed that a combination of blood cell fraction DNA and ddPCR was more sensitive than other combinations used in this model. These results could accelerate the development of detection methods for gene doping.
Characterization of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of a Whipworm Trichuris skrjabini (Nematoda: Trichuridae)
Authors: Ahmad Awais Ali , Shabbir Muhammad Abu Bakr , Xin Yang , Ikram Muhammad , Hafeez Mian Abdul , Wang Chunqun , Zhang Ting , Zhou Caixian , Yan Xingrun , Hassan Mubashar , Hu Min
Published: June 2019

The complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of Trichuris skrjabini has been determined in the current study and subsequently compared with closely related species by phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated datasets of mt amino acid sequences. The whole mt genome of T. skrjabini is circular and 14,011 bp in length. It consists of a total of 37 genes including 13 protein coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNAs) genes, and two non-coding regions. The gene arrangement and contents were consistent with other members of the Trichuridae family including Trichuris suis, Trichuris trichiura, Trichuris ovis, and Trichuris discolor. Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated datasets of amino acids of the 12 PCGs predicted the distinctiveness of Trichuris skrjabini as compared to other members of the Trichuridae family. Overall, our study supports the hypothesis that T. skrjabini is a distinct species. The provision of molecular data of whole mt genome of T. skrjabini delivers novel genetic markers for future studies of diagnostics, systematics, population genetics, and molecular epidemiology of T. skrjabini.
Consumption of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide through Weathering of Ultramafic Rocks in the Voltri Massif (Italy): Quantification of the Process and Global Implications
Authors: Frondini Francesco , Vaselli Orlando , Vetuschi Zuccolini Marino
Published: June 2019

Chemical weathering is the main natural mechanism limiting the atmospheric carbon dioxide levels on geologic time scales (>1 Ma) but its role on shorter time scales is still debated, highlighting the need for an increase of knowledge about the relationships between chemical weathering and atmospheric CO2 consumption. A reliable approach to study the weathering reactions is the quantification of the mass fluxes in and out of mono lithology watershed systems. In this work the chemical weathering and atmospheric carbon dioxide consumption of ultramafic rocks have been studied through a detailed geochemical mass balance of three watershed systems located in the metaophiolitic complex of the Voltri Massif (Italy). Results show that the rates of carbon dioxide consumption of the study area (weighted average = 3.02 ± 1.67 × 105 mol km−2 y−1) are higher than the world average CO2 consumption rate and are well correlated with runoff, probably the stronger weathering controlling factor. Computed values are very close to the global average of basic and ultrabasic magmatic rocks, suggesting that Voltri Massif is a good proxy for the study of the feedbacks between chemical weathering, CO2 consumption, and climate change at a global scale.
Integrating Diverse Disciplines to Enhance Interprofessional Competency in Healthcare Delivery
Authors: Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany , Revere Lee , Tankimovich Mariya , Yu Erica , Spears Robert , Swails Jennifer Lee
Published: June 2019

Interprofessional education (IPE) typically involves clinical simulation exercises with students from medical and nursing schools. Yet, healthcare requires patient-centered teams that include diverse disciplines. Students from public health and informatics are rarely incorporated into IPE, signaling a gap in current educational practices. In this study, we integrated students from administrative and non-clinical disciplines into traditional clinical simulations and measured the effect on communication and teamwork. From July 2017–July 2018, 408 students from five schools (medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health, and informatics) participated in one of eight three-hour IPE clinical simulations with Standardized Patients and electronic health record technologies. Data were gathered using a pre-test–post-test interventional Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS) and through qualitative evaluations from Standardized Patients. Of the total 408 students, 386 (94.6%) had matched pre- and post-test results from the surveys. There was a 15.9% improvement in collaboration overall between the pre- and post-tests. ICCAS competencies showed improvements in teamwork, communication, collaboration, and conflict management, with an average change from 5.26 to 6.10 (t = 35.16; p < 0.001). We found by creating new clinical simulations with additional roles for non-clinical professionals, student learners were able to observe and learn interprofessional teamwork from each other and from faculty role models.
Metabolic Outcomes in Southern Italian Preadolescents Residing Near an Industrial Complex: The Role of Residential Location and Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Bansal Esha , Placidi Donatella , Carver Shaye , Renzetti Stefano , Giorgino Augusto , Cagna Giuseppa , Zoni Silvia , Fedrighi Chiara , Montemurro Miriana , Oppini Manuela , Conversano Michele , Guazzetti Stefano , Wright Robert O. , Smith Donald , Claudio Luz , Lucchini Roberto G.
Published: June 2019

Evidence suggests that environmental exposures and socioeconomic factors may interact to produce metabolic changes in children. We assessed the influence of residential location and socioeconomic status (SES) on pediatric body mass index (BMI) Z-score and fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentration. Participants included 214 children aged 6–11 years who live near a large industrial complex in Taranto, Italy. Participants were grouped into residential zones based on the distance between their home address and the complex periphery (Zone 1: 0.000–4.999 km, Zone 2: 5.000–9.999 km, Zone 3: 10.000–15.000 km). BMI Z-scores were calculated via World Health Organization (WHO) pediatric reference curves. FBG was obtained via venous blood sampling. Closer residential location to the industrial complex on the order of 5.000 km was significantly associated with worsened metabolic outcomes, particularly in female children. Zone 1 participants had higher BMI-adjusted FBG than Zone 2 and 3 participants (p < 0.05 versus Zone 2; p < 0.01 versus Zone 3). SES did not significantly influence BMI-adjusted FBG. Moreover, BMI Z-scores indicated high rates of overweight (22.0%) and obesity (22.9%) in the cohort. BMI Z-score was not significantly associated with SES or residential zone but was negatively associated with maternal education level (p < 0.05). These results offer new evidence that residing near industrial activity may predict adverse effects on child metabolic health.
Life Cycle Assessment of Plywood Manufacturing Process in China
Authors: Jia Liangliang , Chu Jie , Ma Li , Qi Xuemin , Kumar Anuj
Published: June 2019

Life cycle assessment (LCA) has been an important issue in the development of a circular economy. LCA is used to identify environmental impacts and hotspots associated with plywood manufacturing. Based on our results and a literature review of LCA studies involving plywood, a sustainable and environmentally friendly scenario was proposed for the plywood processing industry to improve environmental performance and sustainability. This study covers the life cycle of plywood production from a cradle-to-gate perspective, including raw material preparation and plywood manufacturing and processing to analysis of environment impacts and hotspots. Analysis of abiotic depletion (ADP), acidification effect (AP), primary energy depletion (PED), freshwater eutrophication (EP), global warming potential (GWP), and particulate matter (RI) were selected as major impact categories in this study. All data were obtained from on-site measurements (plywood production) and investigations of the Eco-invent database and CLCD database (upstream data of materials and energy). These data can be ignored when environmental contributions comprise less than 0.001% of environmental impact and auxiliary material quality is less than 0.01% of total raw material consumption. An eco-design strategy with eco-alternatives was proposed: pyrolysis bio-oil can be used to produce green resin to replace traditional phenolic formaldehyde (PF) resin to decrease the impacts of GWP, PED, AP, PM, and especially ADP and EP. A new technology of gluing green wood was used to replace conventional plywood production technology; wood waste could undergo a gasification process to produce resultant gas rather than combusting. Plywood was also compared with other wood-based panels in China to identify additional scenarios to improve environmental sustainability.
Change in Municipality-Level Health-Related Social Capital and Depressive Symptoms: Ecological and 5-Year Repeated Cross-Sectional Study from the JAGES
Authors: Watanabe Ryota , Kondo Katsunori , Saito Tami , Tsuji Taishi , Hayashi Takahiro , Ikeda Takaaki , Takeda Tokunori
Published: June 2019

Prevalence of depressive symptoms is lower in communities with greater social capital (SC). However, it is unclear whether a prevalence of depressive symptoms will decrease in communities where SC has increased. We investigated the relationship between the changes in municipality-level SC and depressive symptoms by using 5-year repeated cross-sectional data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. In 2010 and 2016, self-reported questionnaires were mailed to functionally independent residents aged 65 years or older living in 44 municipalities; valid responses were received from 72,718 and 84,211 people in 2010 and 2016, respectively. All scores were aggregated at the municipality level. The dependent variable was the change in the prevalence of depressive symptoms that were diagnosed with a 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale. Independent variables were the score of change in health-related SC indicators, e.g., social participation, social cohesion, and reciprocity. A multiple regression analysis was employed. The average prevalence of depressive symptoms decreased from 28.6% in 2010 to 21.3% in 2016. The increases in the percentages of sports group participation (B, −0.356), and reciprocity scores (B, −0.597) were significantly associated with the decrease in the prevalence of depressive symptoms after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Our findings suggest that community SC might be an intervention for protecting depressive symptoms in municipalities.
Winter Exercise Reduces Allergic Airway Inflammation: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Prossegger Johanna , Huber Daniela , Grafetstätter Carina , Pichler Christina , Braunschmid Herbert , Weisböck-Erdheim Renate , Hartl Arnulf
Published: June 2019

Background: Physical exercise is often recommended as additional treatment for people suffering from allergic rhinitis and/or asthma, but less is known about the specific effects of recreational winter outdoor exercise on allergic airway inflammation. Methods: We performed a longitudinal, randomized controlled intervention study to investigate the effects of recreational winter exercise on allergic airway inflammation, quality of life, spirometry and cardiorespiratory fitness in adults suffering from allergic rhinitis and/or asthma. The exercise group participated in a ten-day winter sports program. The control group did not receive any intervention. Results: A significant improvement of fractional oral exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO; p = 0.008, day 10) and a significant decrease in FeNO after a single 4 h hiking tour (p < 0.001, time effect) were observed for the exercise group. The nasal eosinophilic cell count revealed a short-term reduction (p = 0.021, treatment effect) in the exercise group and for the visual analogue scale sustainable improvements in allergic symptoms (p < 0.001, day 60) were found. No adverse effects of outdoor winter exercise were observed. Conclusion: Recreational winter exercise at moderately cold temperatures reduces allergic airway inflammation measured as FeNO, nasal eosinophilic cell count and induces sustainable improvements in allergic symptoms.
Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) into the Malay Language
Authors: Zun Ahmad Badruridzwanullah , Ibrahim Mohd Ismail , Mokhtar Ariffin Marzuki , Halim Ahmad Sukari , Wan Mansor Wan Nor Arifin
Published: June 2019

Background: Patient feedback is an important tool in assessing health system quality. The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) was developed in 2006 as a standardized instrument to assess patient perceptions in the United States of America. This study aimed to translate and validate the HCAHPS questionnaire into the Malay language in order to assess patient perceptions of health services in Malaysia. Methods: The original HCAPHS in English was translated into Malay based on the established guideline. The content validation involved an expert panel of 10 members, including patients. The face validation pilot testing of the HCAHPS-Malay version was conducted among 10 discharged patients. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) used principal axis factor, and varimax rotation was established based on a cross-sectional study conducted among 200 discharged patients from Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (Hospital USM). Results: The overall content validity index was 0.87, and the universal face validity index was 0.82. From the EFA, the factor loading value ranged from 0.652 to 0.961 within nine domains. The internal consistency reliability with Cronbach’s alpha was 0.844. Conclusion: The HCAHPS-Malay is a reliable and valid tool to determine patients’ perception of healthcare services among inpatients in Hospital USM based on the content and face validation result together with a good construct validity and excellent absolute reliability. Further testing on HCAHPS-Malay version in other settings in Malaysia needs to be done for cross-validation.
mgwr: A Python Implementation of Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression for Investigating Process Spatial Heterogeneity and Scale
Authors: Oshan Taylor , Li Ziqi , Kang Wei , Wolf Levi , Fotheringham A.
Published: June 2019

Geographically weighted regression (GWR) is a spatial statistical technique that recognizes that traditional ‘global’ regression models may be limited when spatial processes vary with spatial context. GWR captures process spatial heterogeneity by allowing effects to vary over space. To do this, GWR calibrates an ensemble of local linear models at any number of locations using ‘borrowed’ nearby data. This provides a surface of location-specific parameter estimates for each relationship in the model that is allowed to vary spatially, as well as a single bandwidth parameter that provides intuition about the geographic scale of the processes. A recent extension to this framework allows each relationship to vary according to a distinct spatial scale parameter, and is therefore known as multiscale (M)GWR. This paper introduces mgwr, a Python-based implementation of MGWR that explicitly focuses on the multiscale analysis of spatial heterogeneity. It provides novel functionality for inference and exploratory analysis of local spatial processes, new diagnostics unique to multi-scale local models, and drastic improvements to efficiency in estimation routines. We provide two case studies using mgwr, in addition to reviewing core concepts of local models. We present this in a literate programming style, providing an overview of the primary software functionality and demonstrations of suggested usage alongside the discussion of primary concepts and demonstration of the improvements made in mgwr.
Osteoclast-Released Wnt-10b Underlies Cinacalcet Related Bone Improvement in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zheng Cai-Mei , Hsu Yung-Ho , Wu Chia-Chao , Lu Chien-Lin , Liu Wen-Chih , Zheng Jing-Quan , Lin Yuh-Feng , Chiu Hui-Wen , Chang Tian-Jong , Shyu Jia-Fwu , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: June 2019

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) relates to high turnover bone loss and is responsible for most bone fractures among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Changes in the Wingless/beta-catenin signaling (Wnt/β-catenin) pathway and Wnt inhibitors have been found to play a critical role in CKD related bone loss. A calcimimetic agent, cinacalcet, is widely used for SHPT and found to be similarly effective for parathyroidectomy clinically. A significant decrease in hip fracture rates is noted among US hemodialysis Medicare patients since 2004, which is probably related to the cinacalcet era. In our previous clinical study, it was proven that cinacalcet improved the bone mineral density (BMD) even among severe SHPT patients. In this study, the influence of cinacalcet use on bone mass among CKD mice was determined. Cinacalcet significantly reduced the cortical porosity in femoral bones of treated CKD mice. It also improved the whole-bone structural properties through increased stiffness and maximum load. Cinacalcet increased femoral bone wingless 10b (Wnt10b) expression in CKD mice. In vitro studies revealed that cinacalcet decreased osteoclast bone resorption and increased Wnt 10b release from osteoclasts. Cinacalcet increased bone mineralization when culturing the osteoblasts with cinacalcet treated osteoclast supernatant. In conclusion, cinacalcet increased bone quantity and quality in CKD mice, probably through increased bone mineralization related with osteoclast Wnt 10b secretion.
Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships for Structurally Diverse Chemotypes Having Anti-Trypanosoma cruzi Activity
Authors: de Souza Anacleto S. , Ferreira Leonardo L. G. , de Oliveira Aldo S. , Andricopulo Adriano D.
Published: June 2019

Small-molecule compounds that have promising activity against macromolecular targets from Trypanosoma cruzi occasionally fail when tested in whole-cell phenotypic assays. This outcome can be attributed to many factors, including inadequate physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. Unsuitable physicochemical profiles usually result in molecules with a poor ability to cross cell membranes. Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis is a valuable approach to the investigation of how physicochemical characteristics affect biological activity. In this study, artificial neural networks (ANNs) and kernel-based partial least squares regression (KPLS) were developed using anti-T. cruzi activity data for broadly diverse chemotypes. The models exhibited a good predictive ability for the test set compounds, yielding q2 values of 0.81 and 0.84 for the ANN and KPLS models, respectively. The results of this investigation highlighted privileged molecular scaffolds and the optimum physicochemical space associated with high anti-T. cruzi activity, which provided important guidelines for the design of novel trypanocidal agents having drug-like properties.
New Insights into Flexible Transparent Conductive Silver Nanowires Films
Authors: Wang Yuehui , Yang Xing , Du Dexi , Zhao Yuzhen , Zhang Xianfeng
Published: June 2019

Flexible transparent conductive films (FTCFs) composed of silver nanowires (AgNWs) have become an important research direction because of their potential in flexible electronic devices. The optoelectronic properties of FTCFs composed of AgNWs of different lengths were evaluated in this study. AgNWs, with an average diameter of about 25 nm and length of 15.49–3.92 μm were obtained by a sonication-induced scission process. AgNW-FTCFs were prepared on polyethylene terephthalate substrates using a Meyer bar and then dried in the ambient environment. The sheet resistance, non-uniformity factor of the sheet resistance, the root mean square roughness, and haze of the FTCFs increased as the length of AgNWs decreased. The transmittance of the films increased slightly as the length of AgNWs increased. AgNWs with a length of 15.49 μm provided an AgNW-FTCF with excellent properties including haze of 0.95%, transmittance of 93.42%, and sheet resistance of 80.15 Ω∙sq−1, without any additional post-treatment of the film. This work investigating the dependence of the optoelectronic properties of AgNW-FTCFs on AgNW length provides design guidelines for development of AgNW-FTCFs.
In Vivo Comparative Study on Acute and Sub-acute Biological Effects Induced by Ultrafine Particles of Different Anthropogenic Sources in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Farina Francesca , Lonati Elena , Milani Chiara , Massimino Luca , Ballarini Elisa , Donzelli Elisabetta , Crippa Luca , Marmiroli Paola , Botto Laura , Corsetto Paola Antonia , Sancini Giulio , Bulbarelli Alessandra , Palestini Paola
Published: June 2019

Exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs) leads to adverse effects on health caused by an unbalanced ratio between UFPs deposition and clearance efficacy. Since air pollution toxicity is first direct to cardiorespiratory system, we compared the acute and sub-acute effects of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) and biomass burning-derived particles (BB) on bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid (BALf), lung and heart parenchyma. Markers of cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and inflammation were analysed in male BALB/c mice submitted to single and repeated intra-tracheal instillations of 50 μg UFPs. This in-vivo study showed the activation of inflammatory response (COX-2 and MPO) after exposure to UFPs, both in respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Exposure to DEP results also in pro- and anti-oxidant (HO-1, iNOS, Cyp1b1, Hsp70) protein levels increase, although, stress persist only in cardiac tissue under repeated instillations. Statistical correlations suggest that stress marker variation was probably due to soluble components and/or mediators translocation of from first deposition site. This mechanism, appears more important after repeated instillations, since inflammation and oxidative stress endure only in heart. In summary, chemical composition of UFPs influenced the activation of different responses mediated by their components or pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative molecules, indicating DEP as the most damaging pollutant in the comparison.
Co-Assembly of 40S and 60S Ribosomal Proteins in Early Steps of Eukaryotic Ribosome Assembly
Authors: Fox Jesse M. , Rashford Rebekah L. , Lindahl Lasse
Published: June 2019

In eukaryotes three of the four ribosomal RNA (rRNA) molecules are transcribed as a long precursor that is processed into mature rRNAs concurrently with the assembly of ribosomal subunits. However, the relative timing of association of ribosomal proteins with the ribosomal precursor particles and the cleavage of the precursor rRNA into the subunit-specific moieties is not known. To address this question, we searched for ribosomal precursors containing components from both subunits. Particles containing specific ribosomal proteins were targeted by inducing synthesis of epitope-tagged ribosomal proteins followed by pull-down with antibodies targeting the tagged protein. By identifying other ribosomal proteins and internal rRNA transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) in the immuno-purified ribosomal particles, we showed that eS7/S7 and uL4/L4 bind to nascent ribosomes prior to the separation of 40S and 60S specific segments, while uS4/S9, uL22, and eL13/L13 are bound after, or simultaneously with, the separation. Thus, the incorporation of ribosomal proteins from the two subunits begins as a co-assembly with a single rRNA molecule, but is finished as an assembly onto separate precursors for the two subunits.