bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Survey on Nanobiomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Saini Meenu , Dehiya Brijnandan S. , Sindhu Anil , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Ravinder , Lamberti Luciano , Pruncu Catalin I. , Thakur Rajesh
Published: October 2020

One of the most important ideas ever produced by the application of materials science to the medical field is the notion of biomaterials. The nanostructured biomaterials play a crucial role in the development of new treatment strategies including not only the replacement of tissues and organs, but also repair and regeneration. They are designed to interact with damaged or injured tissues to induce regeneration, or as a forest for the production of laboratory tissues, so they must be micro-environmentally sensitive. The existing materials have many limitations, including impaired cell attachment, proliferation, and toxicity. Nanotechnology may open new avenues to bone tissue engineering by forming new assemblies similar in size and shape to the existing hierarchical bone structure. Organic and inorganic nanobiomaterials are increasingly used for bone tissue engineering applications because they may allow to overcome some of the current restrictions entailed by bone regeneration methods. This review covers the applications of different organic and inorganic nanobiomaterials in the field of hard tissue engineering.
Highly Porous Free-Standing rGO/SnO2 Pseudocapacitive Cathodes for High-Rate and Long-Cycling Al-Ion Batteries
Authors: Jahnke Timotheus , Raafat Leila , Hotz Daniel , Knöller Andrea , Diem Achim Max , Bill Joachim , Burghard Zaklina
Published: October 2020

Establishing energy storage systems beyond conventional lithium ion batteries requires the development of novel types of electrode materials. Such materials should be capable of accommodating ion species other than Li+, and ideally, these ion species should be of multivalent nature, such as Al3+. Along this line, we introduce a highly porous aerogel cathode composed of reduced graphene oxide, which is loaded with nanostructured SnO2. This binder-free hybrid not only exhibits an outstanding mechanical performance, but also unites the pseudocapacity of the reduced graphene oxide and the electrochemical storage capacity of the SnO2 nanoplatelets. Moreover, the combination of both materials gives rise to additional intercalation sites at their interface, further contributing to the total capacity of up to 16 mAh cm−3 at a charging rate of 2 C. The high porosity (99.9%) of the hybrid and the synergy of its components yield a cathode material for high-rate (up to 20 C) aluminum ion batteries, which exhibit an excellent cycling stability over 10,000 tested cycles. The electrode design proposed here has a great potential to meet future energy and power density demands for advanced energy storage devices.
Daily Oral Administration of Protease-Treated Royal Jelly Protects Against Denervation-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Shirakawa Tomohiko , Miyawaki Aki , Matsubara Takuma , Okumura Nobuaki , Okamoto Hideto , Nakai Naoya , Rojasawasthien Thira , Morikawa Kazumasa , Inoue Asako , Goto Akino , Washio Ayako , Tsujisawa Toshiyuki , Kawamoto Tatsuo , Kokabu Shoichiro
Published: October 2020

Honeybees produce royal jelly (RJ) from their cephalic glands. Royal jelly is a source of nutrition for the queen honey bee throughout its lifespan and is also involved in fertility and longevity. Royal jelly has long been considered beneficial to human health. We recently observed that RJ delayed impairment of motor function during aging, affecting muscle fiber size. However, how RJ affects skeletal muscle metabolism and the functional component of RJ is as of yet unidentified. We demonstrate that feeding mice with RJ daily prevents a decrease in myofiber size following denervation without affecting total muscle weight. RJ did not affect atrophy-related genes but stimulated the expression of myogenesis-related genes, including IGF-1 and IGF receptor. Trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10HDAA), two major fatty acids contained in RJ. After ingestion, 10H2DA and 10HDAA are metabolized into 2-decenedioic acid (2DA) and sebacic acid (SA) respectively. We found that 10H2DA, 10HDAA, 2DA, and SA all regulated myogenesis of C2C12 cells, murine myoblast cells. These novel findings may be useful for potential preventative and therapeutic applications for muscle atrophy disease included in Sarcopenia, an age-related decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength.
Evolution of Resting Energy Expenditure, Respiratory Quotient, and Adiposity in Infants Recovering from Corrective Surgery of Major Congenital Gastrointestinal Tract Anomalies: A Cohort Study
Authors: Pereira-da-Silva Luís , Barradas Susana , Moreira Ana Catarina , Alves Marta , Papoila Ana Luisa , Virella Daniel , Cordeiro-Ferreira Gonçalo
Published: October 2020

This cohort study describes the evolution of resting energy expenditure (REE), respiratory quotient (RQ), and adiposity in infants recovering from corrective surgery of major congenital gastrointestinal tract anomalies. Energy and macronutrient intakes were assessed. The REE and RQ were assessed by indirect calorimetry, and fat mass index (FMI) was assessed by air displacement plethysmography. Longitudinal variations over time are described. Explanatory models for REE, RQ, and adiposity were obtained by multiple linear regression analysis. Twenty-nine infants were included, 15 born preterm and 14 at term, with median gestational age of 35.3 and 38.1 weeks and birth weight of 2304 g and 2935 g, respectively. In preterm infants, median REE varied between 55.7 and 67.4 Kcal/kg/d and median RQ increased from 0.70 to 0.86–0.92. In term infants, median REE varied between 57.3 and 67.9 Kcal/kg/d and median RQ increased from 0.63 to 0.84–0.88. Weight gain velocity was slower in term than preterm infants. FMI, assessed in a subset of 15 infants, varied between a median of 1.7 and 1.8 kg/m2 at term age. This low adiposity may be related to poor energy balance, low fat intakes, and low RQ¸ that were frequently recorded in several follow-up periods.
Traditional Old Dietary Pattern of Castellana Grotte (Apulia) Is Associated with Healthy Outcomes
Authors: Castellana Fabio , Zupo Roberta , Bortone Ilaria , Giannelli Gianluigi , Donghia Rossella , Lampignano Luisa , Griseta Chiara , De Pergola Giovanni , Boeing Heiner , Cisternino Anna Maria , Logroscino Giancarlo , Sardone Rodolfo , Guerra Vito
Published: October 2020

Background: There is still room for further studies aimed at investigating the most widespread diets in the Mediterranean area. The objective of the study is to analyze the relation of food group intake to clinical chemical indicators of health, and also to compare the food group intake with healthy well-known diet indices. Methods: Lifestyle, dietary, and clinical data collected in 2005/2006 and 2012/2018 from Castellana Grotte, located in the rural area of Apulia, were analyzed. The study populations included newly recruited subjects at each time period (n = 1870) as well as subjects examined twice and compared over time regarding health indicators (n = 734). Diet was assessed through a validated food frequency questionnaire. Three healthy diet indices were calculated and related to 29 food groups. We also performed prospective regression of food group consumption with health indicators. Results: The diet over the time period of observation was very stable and consisted of a high proportion of vegetables, fruit and grains. No major changes in body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure were observed. Consumption of low-fat dairy, juices, olive oil, and water were related to reductions in weight gain, systolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and cholesterol (total and HDL) levels, in that order. Over the time periods we observed only a slight decrease of adherence to the Meddietscore. The correlations of the healthy diet indices with food groups revealed some differences among the indices, mostly regarding the intake of fruit and vegetables. Conclusions: The dietary pattern of Apulia is in line with many principles of a healthy diet and the cohort population seems to be less liable to undergo a transition to a westernized diet.
The Effect of Preoperative Carbohydrate Loading on Clinical and Biochemical Outcomes after Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials
Authors: Kotfis Katarzyna , Jamioł-Milc Dominika , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Folwarski Marcin , Stachowska Ewa
Published: October 2020

Background and aim: Preoperative fasting leads to metabolic stress and causes insulin resistance in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate loading (OCH) on outcome in patients undergoing planned cardiac surgery by systematically reviewing the literature and synthesizing evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: Systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE/Embase/Cinahl/Web of Science/ClinicalTrials databases was performed to identify relevant RCTs from databased inception until 05/03/2020. We included studies that compared outcome measures between OCH with control (placebo or standard starvation). We conducted a random-effect meta-analysis of clinical and biochemical parameters. Results: Nine studies (N = 9) were included with a total of 507 patients. OCH significantly decreased aortic clamping duration (n = 151, standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.521 to −0.038, p = 0.023 and differences in means (DM) = −6.388, 95%CI = −11.246 to −1.529, p = 0.010). Patients from treatment groups had shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay (n = 202, SMD = −0.542, 95%CI = −0.789 to −0.295, p < 0.001 and DM = −25.925, 95%CI = −44.568 to −7.283, p = 0.006) and required fewer units of insulin postoperatively (n = 85, SMD = −0.349, 95%CI = −0.653 to −0.044, p = 0.025 and DM = −4.523, 95%CI = −8.417 to −0.630, p = 0.023). The necessity to use inotropic drugs was significantly lower in the OCH group (risk ratio (RR) = 0.795, 95%CI = 0.689 to 0.919, p = 0.002). All other primary outcomes did not reveal a significant effect. Conclusions: Preoperative OCH in patients undergoing cardiac surgery demonstrated a 20% reduction in the use of inotropic drugs, a 50% reduction of the length of ICU stay, a 28% decrease in aortic clamping duration and a 35% decrease of postoperative insulin requirement.
Effects of Bifidobacterium animalis Subsp. lactis (BPL1) Supplementation in Children and Adolescents with Prader–Willi Syndrome: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Amat-Bou Montse , Garcia-Ribera Sonika , Climent Eric , Piquer-Garcia Irene , Corripio Raquel , Sanchez-Infantes David , Villalta Laia , Elias Maria , Jiménez-Chillarón Josep C. , Chenoll Empar , Ramón Daniel , Ibañez Lourdes , Ramon-Krauel Marta , Lerin Carles
Published: October 2020

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, including obesity, hyperphagia, and behavioral problems. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strain BPL1 has been shown to improve central adiposity in adults with simple obesity. To evaluate BPL1′s effects in children with PWS, we performed a randomized crossover trial among 39 patients (mean age 10.4 years). Participants were randomized to placebo–BPL1 (n = 19) or BPL1–placebo (n = 20) sequences and underwent a 12-week period with placebo/BPL1 treatments, a 12-week washout period, and a 12-week period with the crossover treatment. Thirty-five subjects completed the study. The main outcome was changes in adiposity, measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Secondary outcomes included lipid and glucose metabolism, hyperphagia, and mental health symptoms. Generalized linear modeling was applied to assess differences between treatments. While BPL1 did not modify total fat mass compared to placebo, BPL1 decreased abdominal adiposity in a subgroup of patients older than 4.5 years (n = 28). BPL1 improved fasting insulin concentration and insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, we observed modest improvements in some mental health symptoms. A follow-up trial with a longer treatment period is warranted to determine whether BPL1 supplementation can provide a long-term therapeutic approach for children with PWS (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03548480).
Identification of Inflammatory and Disease-Associated Plasma Proteins that Associate with Intake of Added Sugar and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Their Role in Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Authors: Ramne Stina , Drake Isabel , Ericson Ulrika , Nilsson Jan , Orho-Melander Marju , Engström Gunnar , Sonestedt Emily
Published: October 2020

It has been suggested that high intake of added sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) increase the level of circulating inflammatory proteins and that chronic inflammation plays a role in type 2 diabetes (T2D) development. We aim to examine how added sugar and SSB intake associate with 136 measured plasma proteins and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the Malmö Diet and Cancer–Cardiovascular Cohort (n = 4382), and examine if the identified added sugar- and SSB-associated proteins associate with T2D incidence. A two-step iterative resampling approach was used to internally replicate proteins that associated with added sugar and SSB intake. Nine proteins were identified to associate with added sugar intake, of which only two associated with T2D incidence (p < 0.00045). Seven proteins were identified to associate with SSB intake, of which six associated strongly with T2D incidence (p < 6.9 × 10−8). No significant associations were observed between added sugar and SSB intake and CRP concentrations. In summary, our elucidation of the relationship between plasma proteome and added sugar and SSB intake, in relation to future T2D risk, demonstrated that SSB intake, rather than the total intake of added sugar, was related to a T2D-pathological proteomic signature. However, external replication is needed to verify the findings.
Soy-Based Infant Formula is Associated with an Increased Prevalence of Comorbidities in Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Westmark Cara J. , Kniss Chad , Sampene Emmanuel , Wang Angel , Milunovich Amie , Elver Kelly , Hessl David , Talboy Amy , Picker Jonathon , Haas-Givler Barbara , Esler Amy , Gropman Andrea L. , Uy Ryan , Erickson Craig , Velinov Milen , Tartaglia Nicole , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth M.
Published: October 2020

A large number of adults and children consume soy in various forms, but little information is available regarding potential neurological side effects. Prior work indicates an association between the consumption of soy-based diets and seizure prevalence in mouse models of neurological disease and in children with autism. Herein, we sought to evaluate potential associations between the consumption of soy-based formula during infancy and disease comorbidities in persons with fragile X syndrome (FXS), while controlling for potentially confounding issues, through a retrospective case-control survey study of participants with FXS enrolled in the Fragile X Online Registry with Accessible Research Database (FORWARD). There was a 25% usage rate of soy-based infant formula in the study population. We found significant associations between the consumption of soy-based infant formula and the comorbidity of autism, gastrointestinal problems (GI) and allergies. Specifically, there was a 1.5-fold higher prevalence of autism, 1.9-fold GI problems and 1.7-fold allergies in participants reporting the use of soy-based infant formula. The major reason for starting soy-based infant formula was GI problems. The average age of seizure and allergy onset occurred long after the use of soy-based infant formula. We conclude that early-life feeding with soy-based infant formula is associated with the development of several disease comorbidities in FXS.
Terminalia bentzoë, a Mascarene Endemic Plant, Inhibits Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Growth In Vitro via G0/G1 Phase Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Rummun Nawraj , Rondeau Philippe , Bourdon Emmanuel , Pires Elisabete , McCullagh James , Claridge Timothy D. W. , Bahorun Theeshan , Li Wen-Wu , Neergheen Vidushi S.
Published: October 2020

Tropical forests constitute a prolific sanctuary of unique floral diversity and potential medicinal sources, however, many of them remain unexplored. The scarcity of rigorous scientific data on the surviving Mascarene endemic taxa renders bioprospecting of this untapped resource of utmost importance. Thus, in view of valorizing the native resource, this study has as its objective to investigate the bioactivities of endemic leaf extracts. Herein, seven Mascarene endemic plants leaves were extracted and evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant properties and antiproliferative effects on a panel of cancer cell lines, using methyl thiazolyl diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and clonogenic cell survival assays. Flow cytometry and comet assay were used to investigate the cell cycle and DNA damaging effects, respectively. Bioassay guided-fractionation coupled with liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (MS), gas chromatography-MS, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analysis were used to identify the bioactive compounds. Among the seven plants tested, Terminaliabentzoë was comparatively the most potent antioxidant extract, with significantly (p < 0.05) higher cytotoxic activities. T. bentzoë extract further selectively suppressed the growth of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells and significantly halted the cell cycle progression in the G0/G1 phase, decreased the cells’ replicative potential and induced significant DNA damage. In total, 10 phenolic compounds, including punicalagin and ellagic acid, were identified and likely contributed to the extract’s potent antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. These results established a promising basis for further in-depth investigations into the potential use of T. bentzoë as a supportive therapy in cancer management.
Phytoremediation of Soil Contaminated with Lithium Ion Battery Active Materials—A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Henschel Jonas , Mense Maximilian , Harte Patrick , Diehl Marcel , Buchmann Julius , Kux Fabian , Schlatt Lukas , Karst Uwe , Hensel Andreas , Winter Martin , Nowak Sascha
Published: October 2020

The lithium-ion battery is the most powerful energy storage technology for portable and mobile devices. The enormous demand for lithium-ion batteries is accompanied by an incomplete recycling loop for used lithium-ion batteries and excessive mining of Li and transition metals. The hyperaccumulation of plants represents a low-cost and green technology to reduce environmental pollution of landfills and disused mining regions with low environmental regulations. To examine the capabilities of these approaches, the hyperaccumulation selectivity of Alyssum murale for metals in electrode materials (Ni, Co, Mn, and Li) was evaluated. Plants were cultivated in a conservatory for 46 days whilst soils were contaminated stepwise with dissolved transition metal species via the irrigation water. Up to 3 wt% of the metals was quantified in the dry matter of different plant tissues (leaf, stem, root) by means of inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy after 46 days of exposition time. The lateral distribution was monitored by means of micro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, revealing different storage behaviors for low and high metal contamination, as well as varying sequestration mechanisms for the four investigated metals. The proof-of-concept regarding the phytoextraction of metals from LiNi0.33Co0.33Mn0.33O2 cathode particles in the soil was demonstrated.
The Black Madonna: A Theoretical Framework for the African Origins of Other World Religious Beliefs
Authors: Michello Janet
Published: October 2020

This review summarizes existing scholarship in order to theorize how Abrahamic religions and Hinduism were influenced by African beliefs, in order to illuminate the contributions that African beliefs have had on other world religions. The review begins with a brief historical overview of the origins of indigenous ideologies, followed by a review of classical theories of religion and a summary of contemporary religious trends, with particular attention on African beliefs. The Black Madonna, with origins in Africa, is a prominent example of how African beliefs have been integrated into other faiths in ways that are often obscured from view. The Black Madonna is compared with the characteristics and symbolism of the traditional fair-skinned Virgin Mary. It is estimated that there are hundreds of depictions of the Black Madonna, yet her identity as truly black is generally minimized. This review contributes a theoretical rationale for the lack of recognition and acceptance of the Madonna as black, contextualizing this within a feminist theoretical viewpoint and analyzing the connection to African folklore and traditional religious beliefs. The theoretical framework articulated in this paper contributes an elucidation of the ways that indigenous African religions have affected other world religions. Acknowledging this influence challenges the simplistic notion of reified distinctions between Western and non-Western religions.
The Image of Guru Nanak in Dadu-Panthi Sources
Authors: Fenech Louis E.
Published: October 2020

This essay examines the issue of Guru Nanak’s inclusion in the mid-to-late seventeenth-century devotional text prepared by the Dadu-panthi savant, Raghavdas, the Bhakt-māl or Garland of Devotees. This text follows by some decades the similarly titled Bhakt-māl of Nabha Das. However, while Nabha Das excludes Guru Nanak, Raghavdas’ Bhakt-māl embraces him and includes a much more diverse seventeenth- and pre-seventeenth-century saintly clientele that was particular to both northern and southern India. The essay is one of the first to examine this text in Sikh studies and tease out the reasons which may have prompted Raghavdas to include Guru Nanak. In the process, it attempts to understand early non-Sikh bhakti views of the Sikh Gurus while also providing fresh looks at Sikh numbers in the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries and at the diverse and multi-ideological environment of northern India from the early 1600s onward. It also suggests Raghavadas’ familiarity with the poetry of his near contemporary ideologue, the great Sikh scholar Bhai Gurdas Bhalla.
Practices of Piety: An Alternative Approach to the Study of Islamic Movements
Authors: Rock-Singer Aaron
Published: October 2020

This article challenges the dominant organization-centered focus of the study of Islamic movements, and argues for a turn towards social practice. To do so, it traces the rise and spread of Egypt’s leading Salafi movement, Ansar al-Sunna al-Muhammadiyya (e. 1926) and its role in popularizing a series of distinct practices between 1940 and 1990. Based on the full run of this movement’s magazine, al-Hadi al-Nabawi (the Prophetic Guide, 1936–66) and al-Tawhid (Monolatry, 1973–93), the article explores the conditions in which practices such as praying in shoes and bareheaded, gender segregation and the cultivation of a fist-length beard were both politically viable and strategically advantageous. In doing so, it not only casts light on the trajectory of this movement, but also shows how and why the articulation and performance of distinct social practices are central to how Islamic movements shape society.
Dolomites as SO2 Sorbents in Fluid Combustion Technology
Authors: Hycnar Elżbieta , Ratajczak Tadeusz , Sęk Magdalena
Published: October 2020

Dolomites are not used as SO2 sorbents in fluid combustion technology. The literature data show fundamental discrepancies in the possibility of such use. They mainly concern the role of magnesium in the sorption process of SO2 and the durability of desulfurization products under high-temperature conditions. The article demonstrates that MgO is actively involved in the SO2 binding under fluidized furnace conditions. The resulting products of sulfation contain magnesium in their compositions, and their thermal transformations begin only after the temperature exceeds 1100 °C. It has been shown that dolomites are a potential raw material for the production of SO2 sorbents for fluid combustion technology, and their use is justified due to the higher desulfurization efficiency. Parameters of dolomite descriptions were given, by which it will be possible to predict the effects of flue gas desulfurization before the dolomites’ use in industrial conditions. It has been shown that there are opportunities to expand the domestic raw-material base for the production of SO2 sorbents, based on both dolomite resources present in deposits and dolomite waste accumulated in dumps, as well as generated during the current exploitation and processing of dolomites.
Field Comparison of Electrical Resistance, Electromagnetic Induction, and Frequency Domain Reflectometry for Soil Salinity Appraisal
Authors: Visconti Fernando , de Paz José Miguel
Published: October 2020

By using different physical foundations and technologies, many probes have been developed for on-site soil salinity appraisal in the last forty years. In order to better understand their respective technical and practical advantages and constraints, comparisons among probes are needed. In this study, three different probes, based on electrical resistance (ER), electromagnetic induction (EMI), and frequency domain reflectometry (FDR), were compared during a field survey carried out in a large salt-threatened agricultural area. Information about the soil bulk electrical conductivity (σb) at different depths was obtained with each of the probes and, additionally, other soil properties were also measured depending on the specifications of each instrument and, moreover, determined in samples. On average, the EMI and FDR techniques could be regarded as equivalent for σb measurement, whereas ER gave higher σb values. Whatever the case, EMI, and also ER, had to be supplemented with information about soil clay, organic matter, and water mass fractions to attain, despite this effort, poor soil salinity estimations by means of multiple linear regression models (R2 < 0.5). On the contrary, FDR needed only probe data to achieve R2 of 0.7, though root mean standard error (RMSE) was still 1.5 dS m−1. The extra measurements and calculations that modern electrical conductivity contact probes integrate, specifically, those based on FDR, remarkably increase their ability for soil salinity appraisal, although there is still room for improvement.
A Surface Morphological Study, Poly(Vinyl Chloride) Photo-Stabilizers Utilizing Ibuprofen Tin Complexes against Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Watheq Baraa , Yousif Emad , Al-Mashhadani Mohammed H. , Mohammed Alaa , Ahmed Dina S. , Kadhom Mohammed , Jawad Ali H.
Published: October 2020

In this work, three Ibuprofen tin complexes were synthesized and characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1H and 119Sn-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopies to identify the structures. The complexes were mixed separately with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) to improve its photo-stability properties. Their activity was demonstrated by several approaches of the FTIR to exhibit the formation of new groups within the polymer structure due to the exposure to UV light. Moreover, the polymer’s weight loss during irradiation and the average molecular weight estimation using its viscosity before and after irradiation were investigated. Furthermore, different techniques were used to study the surface morphology of the PVC before and after irradiation. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and optical microscope demonstrated that applying Ibuprofen tin complexes keeps the surface of PVC smoother, with fewer cracks and spots after irradiation comparing to the blank PVC. Finally, It seems possible that such synthesized Ibuprofen tin complexes can work as excellent photo-stabilizers of PVC. In particular, complex 1 showed the best results among other stabilizers due to the large conjugation system of the stabilizer.
Dendritic Cells and Antiviral Defense
Authors: Mailliard Robbie B.
Published: October 2020

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a fundamental and central role in the immune response, acting as a critical link between the innate and adaptive branches of immunity [...]
Ubiquitin and Not Only Unfolded Domains Drives Toscana Virus Non-Structural NSs Protein Degradation
Authors: Gori Savellini Gianni , Bini Luca , Gagliardi Assunta , Anichini Gabriele , Gandolfo Claudia , Prathyumnan Shibily , Cusi Maria Grazia
Published: October 2020

The non-structural protein NSs of the Phenuiviridae family members appears to have a role in the host immunity escape. The stability of Toscana virus (TOSV) NSs protein was tested by a cycloheximide (CHX) chase approach on cells transfected with NSs deleted versions fused to a reporter gene. The presence of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) both at the C- and N-terminus appeared to affect the protein stability. Indeed, the NSsΔC and NSsΔN proteins were more stable than the wild-type NSs counterpart. Since TOSV NSs exerts its inhibitory function by triggering RIG-I for proteasomal degradation, the interaction of the ubiquitin system and TOSV NSs was further examined. Chase experiments with CHX and the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 demonstrated the involvement of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in controlling NSs protein amount expressed in the cells. The analysis of TOSV NSs by mass spectrometry allowed the direct identification of K104, K109, K154, K180, K244, K294, and K298 residues targeted for ubiquitination. Analysis of NSs K-mutants confirmed the presence and the important role of lysine residues located in the central and the C-terminal parts of the protein in controlling the NSs cellular level. Therefore, we directly demonstrated a new cellular pathway involved in controlling TOSV NSs fate and activity, and this opens the way to new investigations among more pathogenic viruses of the Phenuiviridae family.
JCPyV VP1 Mutations in Progressive Multifocal
Leukoencephalopathy: Altering Tropism
or Mediating Immune Evasion?
Authors: Lauver Matthew D. , Lukacher Aron E.
Published: October 2020

Polyomaviruses are ubiquitous human pathogens that cause lifelong, asymptomatic infections in healthy individuals. Although these viruses are restrained by an intact immune system, immunocompromised individuals are at risk for developing severe diseases driven by resurgent viral replication. In particular, loss of immune control over JC polyomavirus can lead to the development of the demyelinating brain disease progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Viral isolates from PML patients frequently carry point mutations in the major capsid protein, VP1, which mediates virion binding to cellular glycan receptors. Because polyomaviruses are non-enveloped, VP1 is also the target of the host’s neutralizing antibody response. Thus, VP1 mutations could affect tropism and/or recognition by polyomavirus-specific antibodies. How these mutations predispose susceptible individuals to PML and other JCPyV-associated CNS diseases remains to be fully elucidated. Here, we review the current understanding of polyomavirus capsid mutations and their effects on viral tropism, immune evasion, and virulence.
Genetic, Morphological and Antigenic Relationships between Mesonivirus Isolates from Australian Mosquitoes and Evidence for Their Horizontal Transmission
Authors: Newton Natalee D. , Colmant Agathe M. G. , O’Brien Caitlin A. , Ledger Emma , Paramitha Devina , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle , Watterson Daniel , McLean Breeanna J. , Hall-Mendelin Sonja , Warrilow David , van den Hurk Andrew F. , Liu Wenjun , Hoare Christina , Kizu Joanne R. , Gauci Penelope J. , Haniotis John , Doggett Stephen L. , Shaban Babak , Johansen Cheryl A. , Hall Roy A. , Hobson-Peters Jody
Published: October 2020

The Mesoniviridae are a newly assigned family of viruses in the order Nidovirales. Unlike other nidoviruses, which include the Coronaviridae, mesoniviruses are restricted to mosquito hosts and do not infect vertebrate cells. To date there is little information on the morphological and antigenic characteristics of this new group of viruses and a dearth of mesonivirus-specific research tools. In this study we determined the genetic relationships of recent Australian isolates of Alphamesonivirus 4 (Casuarina virus—CASV) and Alphamesonivirus 1 (Nam Dinh virus—NDiV), obtained from multiple mosquito species. Australian isolates of NDiV showed high-level similarity to the prototype NDiV isolate from Vietnam (99% nucleotide (nt) and amino acid (aa) identity). Isolates of CASV from Central Queensland were genetically very similar to the prototype virus from Darwin (95–96% nt and 91–92% aa identity). Electron microscopy studies demonstrated that virion diameter (≈80 nm) and spike length (≈10 nm) were similar for both viruses. Monoclonal antibodies specific to CASV and NDiV revealed a close antigenic relationship between the two viruses with 13/34 mAbs recognising both viruses. We also detected NDiV RNA on honey-soaked nucleic acid preservation cards fed on by wild mosquitoes supporting a possible mechanism of horizontal transmission between insects in nature.
The effect of dietary supplementation of natural antioxidants and coated calcium butyrate on carcass traits, serum biochemical parameters, lipid peroxidation in meat and intestinal histomorphology in broilers
Authors: GÜMÜŞ Erinç , KÜÇÜKERSAN Seher , BAYRAKTAROĞLU Alev Gürol , SEL Tevhide
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vitamin E, grape seed extract and green tea extract with or without supplementation of coated calcium butyrate in broilers based on carcass traits, some biochemical parameters, intestinal histomorphology, and lipid peroxidation in meat. Two hundred fifty-two one-day-old broiler chicks were divided into nine groups, one control and eight experimental. Control group fed only a basal diet (control). The experimental groups' diets contained feed additives as; coated calcium butyrate (CCB), vitamin E (VitE), grape seed extract (GSE), green tea extract (GTE), a combination of vitamin E with coated calcium butyrate (VitE+CCB), grape seed extract with coated calcium butyrate (GSE+CCB), green tea extract with coated calcium butyrate (GTE+CCB), and a combination of grape seed extract, green tea extract, and coated calcium butyrate (GSE+GTE+CCB) respectively. According to the study results; no significant differences were observed in gut histomorphology and serum biochemical parameters. The broilers fed with GSE and GTE with/without CCB had significantly higher hot carcass yield than control, VitE, and VitE+CCB. Furthermore, all groups showed significantly lesser lipid peroxidation in meat than control; however, the VitE group had the lowest malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. It can be concluded that the combination of CCB with natural antioxidants could be used to improve carcass traits and meat antioxidant capacity in broilers.
El eclipse parcial de Plotino en la Edad Media y su recuperación en el Renacimiento
Authors: Corrigan Kevin
Published: October 2020

Este artículo trabaja la presencia plotiniana en la Edad Media y el Renacimiento. En primer término, se presenta el movimiento de transmisión indirecta de las Enéadas a lo largo de la Edad Media y las ediciones que resurgen en el Renacimiento. En esta línea, se discute precisamente la presencia e influencia de las ideas plotinianas en pensadores medievales. En segundo término, se despliegan ciertas notas nucleares del pensamiento de Plotino –las tres hipóstasis y un solo universo– para luego, en tercer término, exponer las profundas coincidencias que pueden encontrarse en la estructura del pensamiento de Nicolás de Cusa –con el estudio del lenguaje de los binomios complicación-explicación, incontracto-contracto. Finalmente, se considera la posibilidad de incluir a ambos autores en una Gran Teoría Unificada que se despliega a lo largo de la Edad Media.
Mano y rostro. La filosofía de la expresión en Leonardo da Vinci y Marsilio Ficino
Authors: Cuozzo Gianluca
Published: October 2020

El presente artículo se centra en Marsilio Ficino y Leonardo da Vinci. Ambos autores describen la producción humana de artefactos como principios transformadores que afectan el mundo a partir de un punto de vista tanto técnico como estético. En este sentido, manus y risus se convierten en bastiones de una antropología típicamente renacentista, según la cual el homo faber se eleva a ese estado divino que juega un importante papel en la filosofía de Nicolás de Cusa; mientras la mano humana es el principio transformador activo, la sonrisa es el signo de un trabajo cumplido. En suma, estos dos aspectos revelan un proceso de espiritualización de la realidad, i.e., la perfecta interpenetración de la belleza con la virtud y la verdad. Este trabajo explorará las similitudes entre los dos autores también en relación con el retrato Ginevra de’ Benci (1475-1478 ca.), de Leonardo da Vinci; una muy especial “sermón pintado” con el fondo del cuadro, siendo un tratamiento filosófico conciso en el que se lee “virtutem forma decorat”, fórmula que Ficino evoca en su Convivium.
Secretum secretorum. Joaquín de Fiore, Pedro Alfonso y la cábala
Authors: Rossatto Noeli Dutra
Published: October 2020

Dos corrientes principales dividen el debate sobre la relación entre Joaquín de Fiore (s. XII), Pedro Alfonso de Huesca (s. XI) y la cábala judaica. Gershon Scholem firma la hipótesis de que el abad de Fiore y los cabalistas españoles del siglo XII, a la vez y sin conocerse, han producido trabajos similares. Esta hipótesis será parcialmente rechazada por una segunda que pone en evidencia algunos aspectos de la obra joaquinita derivados del filósofo judío-aragonés, converso al cristianismo, Pedro Alfonso de Huesca (Moseh Sephardi). Esta segunda hipótesis permite afirmar que la explicación de la Trinidad asumida por Pedro Alfonso de acuerdo con el Tetragrama YHWH tomado del Secretum secretorum de los judíos fue incorporada por Joaquín de Fiore, y que utilizará especialmente en la composición de la Figura XIII – el Salterio de diez cuerdas, y de la Figura XI – los Tres círculos trinitarios del Liber Figurarum. Desde esta perspectiva, añadimos una tercera hipótesis: que la relación entre Joaquín de Fiore y la cábala, además de tener como punto de apoyo la explicación trinitaria de Pedro Alfonso, se refleja directamente en la confección de sus principales figurae. Y de forma complementaria, entendemos que la fuente que nutre Pedro Alfonso, e indirectamente la de Joaquín de Fiore –el llamado Secretum secretorum de los judíos– es una compilación de tres textos cabalistas principales: el Sefer Yetsirah (Libro de la Creación o del Conocimiento), el Sefer al-Raziel (Libro de Raziel) y el Libro de Salomón.
Experience of using denture adhesive Corega Max seal for patients with type 2 diabetes with partial absence of teeth in orthopedic treatment
Authors: Shevkunova N.A.
Published: October 2020

The article presents the results of studying the dental quality of life indicators of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) according to the" profile of dental health influence "OHIP-14 – RU for prosthetics with removable plate prostheses with clamp fixation and using denture adhesive. The study involved 61 patients aged 49 to 68 years with a duration of diabetes 5.9±1.7 years and the absence of more than 6 teeth in one of the jaws.
When analyzing the indicators before orthopedic treatment, the quality of life of patients with DM2 was regarded as "unsatisfactory" (57.6±1.2), with a "satisfactory" level in the group of patients without somatic pathology (48.2±1.3). A month after orthopedic rehabilitation when using denture adhesive in patients with DM2, the quality of life level was considered as "satisfactory" and was 36.7±0.4, in the group of patients without somatic pathology as "good" — 18.5±0.6 points. At the same time, the quality of life indicators of patients with the traditional adaptation period were "satisfactory" and amounted to 46.1±0.3 and 29.5±0.6 points, respectively. The study showed that the restoration of dental defects in patients with type 2 diabetes with partial removable plate prostheses with regular use of denture adhesive not only improves dental health, but also has a significant positive impact on the psychological health and quality of life of such patients.
Molecular dynamics simulation for hydrogen recycling on tungsten divertor for neutral transport analysis
Authors: Saito Seiki , Nakamura Hiroaki , Sawada Keiji , Kobayashi Masahiro , Kawamura Gakushi , Sawada Takumi , Masahiro Hasuo
Published: October 2020

In magnetic field confinement plasma devices such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), hydrogen atoms and molecules are emitted from plasma-facing materials by hydrogen recycling. The effect of the recycled hydrogen in edge plasma can be investigated by neutral transport analysis. In this paper, in order to obtain the boundary condition at the tungsten divertor for neutral transport simulation, a molecular dynamics simulation is performed to investigate the emission ratio of hydrogen atoms and molecules, the emission angle, the translational energy of emitted hydrogen atoms and molecules, and the vibrational and rotational energies of emitted hydrogen molecules. Moreover, from the simulation results, it is also found that the number of emitted hydrogen molecules increases as the ratio of the number of hydrogen and tungsten atoms (H/W) in the material increases, although the H/W dependence of the number of emitted hydrogen atoms is not significant in the range of our simulation, 0.49 ≤ H/W ≤ 1.37. The elementary process of the emission of hydrogen is also investigated by trajectory analysis. The analysis reveals that the hydrogen atom travels on the surface of the tungsten material and remains there for a while because it is trapped on the surface of the tungsten material.
Nanotechnology for Mitigating Impact of COVID-19
Authors: Tripathi Dr. Gagan Kant , Rathore Harshit , Chavali Murthy , Rathore Deepshikha
Published: October 2020

This review article aims to create awareness towards COVID-19 epidemic and develop a basic responsibility in human beings to control and stop the transmission of COVID-19. It has been highlighted that disaster is imminent if we play with nanostructures unknowingly. The effect of COVID-19 on mankind and its detection and transmission have also been discussed briefly. The protection guidelines including treatment procedures have been illustrated. The utilization of nanoparticles to detect and cure COVID-19 has been described.
Pengaruh Tingkat Pendidikan dan Usia Terhadap Penggunaan Metode Kontrasepsi Jangka Panjang di RT 01/ RW 01 Desa Jatirejo Kecamatan Banyakan Kabupaten Kediri Tahun 2018
Authors: Lely Khulafa'ur Rosidah
Published: October 2020

Melalui keluarga berencana sebuah keluarga merencanakan jumlah anak dan jarak kelahiran anak pertama dengan anak berikutnya. Salah satu yang berkaitan dengan kesadaran keluarga berencana pada masyarakat adalah pendidikan. Rendahnya fenomena pemakaian Metode Kontrasepsijangka Panjang (MKJP) pada akseptor KB aktif dan akseptor KB baru dikhawatirkan angka putus pakai yang tinggi sehingga lebih banyak terjadi drop out dan berkontribusi pada tingginya Laju Pertumbuhan Penduduk (LPP), angka Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dan Angka Kematian Ibu. Tujuan Penelitian ini adalah mengetahui Pengaruh Tingkat Pendidikan dan Usia Terhadap Penggunaan MKJP.

                Desain penelitian ini Analitik korelasional dengan pendekatan Crosssectional. Populasi Penelitian adalah Seluruh Akseptor KB di RT/ RW 01/01 Desa Jatirejo Kecamatan Banyakan Kabupaten Kediri. Dengan Teknik Sampling Purposive Sampling didapatkan sampel 37 Responden. Instrumen yang digunakan berupa Kuesioner. Analisa Multivariat dengan Regresi Logistik Ganda.

                Hasil Penelitian dari 37 Responden dengan tingkat pendidikan dasar sebanyak 22 responden (59,45%) . Mayoritas Berusia 36-45 tahun sejumlah 20 orang (54,05%). Pengguna Non Metode Kontrasepsi Jangka Panjang (MKJP) sebanyak 27 responden (72,97%) dan pengguna MKJP sebanyak 10 responden (27,02%). Berdasarkan Hasil Uji Statistik Regresi Logistik Ganda didapatkan Taraf Sig. 0,006 < 0,05 sehingga Tingkat Pendidikan amempengaruhi Penggunaan MKJP, Taraf Sig 0,823 > 0,05 sehingga Usia tidak mempengaruhi penggunaan MKJP. Penggunaan MKJP dipengaruhi Tingkat Pendidikan dan Usia sebesar 35,10 %.

                Pendidikan tidak hanya didapatkan secara Formal,sedangkan Usia tidak mempengaruhi kematangan Akseptor dalam mengambil pilihan kontrasepsi. Sehingga hendaknya Tenaga Kesehatan dan Kader KB lebih secara mendalam memberikan motivasi Akseptor  untuk memilih MKJP melalui Metode Pendekatan Keluarga.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ACT, 1935
Authors: Prasa Subhash Chandra
Published: October 2020

The Government of India Act, 1935 was passed by British Parliament in August 1935. With 321 sections and 10 schedules, this was the longest act passed by British Parliament so far and was later split into two parts viz. Government of India Act, 1935 and Government of Burma Act, 1935. The demand for constitutional reforms in India has been quite old.
The Government of India Act, 1935 derived material from four key sources viz. Report of the Simon Commission, discussions at the Third Round Table Conference, the White Paper of 1933 and the reports of the Joint select committees. This act ended the system of dyarchy introduced by the Government of India Act 1919, and provided for establishment of a Federation of India to be made up of provinces of British India and some or all of the Princely states. However, the federation never came into being as the required number of princely states did not join it. It was the last constitution of British India which split Burma from it. It lasted until 1947, when British territory was split into Pakistan and India.
Metanálise do conteúdo técnico de diferentes Planos Diretores de Arborização Urbana do Brasil
Authors: Silva Gabriel Mancini Antunes da , Brun Eleandro José , Brun Flávia Gizele König , Callegaro Rafael Marian , Costa Ciro Duarte de Paula
Published: October 2020

O Plano Diretor de Arborização Urbana (PDAU), é um documento que contém o planejamento da arborização urbana, esse ser um documento elaborado por responsáveis técnicos como os Engenheiros Florestais, Agrônomos e Biólogos, pois se não sérios prejuízos podem ocorrer. Esse estudo objetivou avaliar PDAUs e legislações específicas de diferentes regiões do Brasil, comparando variáveis analisadas como: os principais profissionais participantes na elaboração dos planos e os principais grupos de variáveis empregadas na etapa de inventário florestal urbano dos planos em 49 exemplares de cidades do Brasil. Primeiramente, foram coletados diversos PDAUs disponíveis na internet, através de ferramentas de busca da web, no qual foram procurados, os planos disponíveis na internet e em bibliografias de arborização, sendo pesquisados por estados e separados em função do porte de suas respectivas cidades, segundo ao censo populacional do IBGE em 2010 e por Milazzo em 2011, posteriormente esses dados foram tabelados e foi feita a análise gráfica e de planilhas.  Esse estudo serve de subsídio para a elaboração de um Plano Diretor de Arborização Urbana mais completo, contendo informações mais detalhadas da arborização urbana, visto que esse trabalho discutiu sobre as variáveis avaliadas, sugerindo planos modelos para cidades de pequeno, médio e grande porte, servindo como ferramenta de apoio para cidades que ainda não possuem os planos. Sendo recomendado o PDAU de Timóteo-MG para cidades de pequeno porte, Palmas -TO para as de médio porte e Rio de Janeiro – RJ para as de grande porte.