bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Calcareous Shells of Belemnitida and Sepiida: Is the Cuttlebone Prong an Analogue of the Belemnite Rostrum Solidum?
Authors: Benito M. , Reolid Matías
Published: August 2020

The microstructure of the rostrum solidum of Jurassic belemnites is compared with that of Sepia cuttlebones, in order to examine possible convergences in their style of growth. For this study, transmitted and polarized light, cathodoluminescence, epifluorescence, scanning electron and backscattered electron microscopy have been employed. Despite differences in the primary mineralogy of the studied belemnites and sepiids, calcite and aragonite, respectively, many similarities have been observed between the microstructure of the belemnite rostra and the prong of Sepia cuttlebone: (1) In both, crystals start growing from successive spherulites, from which crystals emerge radially towards the apex and the external walls, displaying internally micro-fibrous texture. (2) Both display concentric growth layering, comprising an alternation of organic-rich and organic-poor layers, which, in turn, is traverse by the radially-arranged micro-fibrous crystals. (3) The highest organic matter content and porosity have been observed along the apical area of the Sepia prong, similarly to that interpreted for belemnite rostra. The strong convergences observed suggest that the growth of belemnites occurred similarly to that of the prong of sepiids and that the Sepia prong is the analog of the belemnite rostrum. Additionally, non-classical crystallization processes are proposed to be involved in the formation Sepia endoskeleton.
PEI-Mediated Transient Transfection of High Five Cells at Bioreactor Scale for HIV-1 VLP Production
Authors: Puente-Massaguer Eduard , Strobl Florian , Grabherr Reingard , Striedner Gerald , Lecina Martí , Gòdia Francesc
Published: August 2020

High Five cells are an excellent host for the production of virus-like particles (VLPs) with the baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS). However, the concurrent production of high titers of baculovirus hinder the purification of these nanoparticles due to similarities in their physicochemical properties. In this study, first a transient gene expression (TGE) method based on the transfection reagent polyethylenimine (PEI) is optimized for the production of HIV-1 VLPs at shake flask level. Furthermore, VLP production by TGE in High Five cells is successfully demonstrated at bioreactor scale, resulting in a higher maximum viable cell concentration (5.1 × 106 cell/mL), the same transfection efficiency and a 1.8-fold increase in Gag-eGFP VLP production compared to shake flasks. Metabolism analysis of High Five cells indicates a reduction in the consumption of the main metabolites with respect to non-transfected cell cultures, and an increase in the uptake rate of several amino acids when asparagine is depleted. Quality assessment by nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow virometry of the VLPs produced shows an average size of 100–200 nm, in agreement with immature HIV-1 viruses reported in the literature. Overall, this work demonstrates that the High Five/TGE system is a suitable approach for the production of VLP-based vaccine candidates and other recombinant proteins.
Development of Novel Heparin/Protamine Nanoparticles Useful for Delivery of Exogenous Proteins In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Nakamura Shingo , Ando Naoko , Ishihara Masayuki , Sato Masahiro
Published: August 2020

We previously reported that heparin/protamine particles (LHPPs) produced as nanoparticles through simple mixing of raw materials exhibit sustained protein release and can be retained in cells. In the present study, we modified LHPPs without employing any organic synthetic approach. The resulting LHPPs were re-named as improved LHPPs (i-LHPPs) and have the ability to retain cell-penetrating peptides (GRKKRRQRRRPPQ) based on electrostatic interactions. We examined whether i-LHPPs can introduce exogenous proteins (i.e., lacZ protein encoding bacterial β-galactosidase) into cultured cells in vitro, or into murine hepatocytes in vivo through intravenous injection to anesthetized mice. We found an accumulation of the transferred protein in both in vitro cultured cells and in vivo hepatocytes. To the best of our knowledge, reports of successful in vivo delivery to hepatocytes are rare. The i-LHPP-based protein delivery technique will be useful for in vivo functional genetic modification of mouse hepatocytes using Cas9 protein-mediated genome editing targeting specific genes, leading to the creation of hepatic disease animal models for research that aims to treat liver diseases.
Development of a Sport Food Exchange List for Dietetic Practice in Sport Nutrition
Authors: Martínez-Sanz José Miguel , Menal-Puey Susana , Sospedra Isabel , Russolillo Giuseppe , Norte Aurora , Marques-Lopes Iva
Published: August 2020

Food exchange lists have been widely used in dietary practice in health and disease situations, but there are still no exchange lists for sports foods. The aim of this study was to apply a previous published methodology to design food exchange lists to the development of a sports food exchange list, with sport products available in Spain. A cross-sectional study of the nutritional composition of sports foods, regarding macronutrients and energy, was carried out. A total of 322 sports foods from 18 companies were selected, taking into account their interest in sports practice and with nutritional data provided by companies. Sports foods were divided into seven groups: sports drinks; sports gels; sports bars; sports confectionery; protein powders; protein bars; and liquid meals. A sports food composition database based on portion size usually consumed by athletes and/or recommended in commercial packaging was created. Within each sports foods group, different subgroups were defined due to differences in the main and/or secondary macronutrient. The definition of each exchange list with the amounts—in grams—of each sports food within each group and subgroup, was done using statistical criteria such as mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and Z value. Final exchange values for energy and macronutrient have been established for each group and subgroup using a methodology to design food exchange lists previously published by the authors. In addition, those products with high Z values that can provide greater variability in dietary planning were included. The usefulness of sport foods lists as well as the use of an exchange system in the dietary practice of sports nutrition is discussed, and examples of how to use them with athletes are presented. This first sport foods exchange list showed in this study, with commercial sports products available in Spain, can be a novel tool for dietetic practice and also can allow sport nutrition professionals to develop another sport food list using the methodology described in this paper. Its management would allow dietitians to adapt dietary plans more precisely to the training and/or competition of the athlete.
High Frequency of Non-Compliance with Quality Indicators of Enteral and Parenteral Nutritional Therapy in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Nogueira Daiane Aparecida , Ferreira Lara Princia , de Lúcia Renata Paniago Andrade , Pena Geórgia das Graças
Published: August 2020

Quality indicators in nutritional therapy (QINT) are measures of the effectiveness and quality of nutrition support. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of the QINT adequacy of Enteral Nutritional Therapy (EN) and/or Parenteral (PN) in hospitalized patients and identify the best indicators according to health professionals. A prospective study was performed, including data from patients aged 18 years or over admitted to clinical or surgical wards. The patients who had received EN and/or PN were followed from the first day of nutritional prescription until discharge. Twelve indicators were calculated, as recommended by the literature. Regarding professional opinion, the QINT adequacy was evaluated by observing its utility, simplicity, objectivity, and cost. Of the 727 hospitalized patients, 101 were on EN and/or PN. Regarding the 12 QINT evaluated, only 25% (3) achieved the goals: involuntary withdrawal of enteral feeding tube (0.01%); feeding tube occlusion or withdrawal per occlusion (0%); the measurement of energy and protein requirements (92%). A high frequency of non-compliance (75% of QINT) was observed in clinical and surgical patients on EN and/or PN. With knowledge of the six best indicators chosen by health professionals in this service, it will be possible to elaborate protocols according to the real-life situation in the institution.
Separating the Wheat from the Chaff: Nutritional Value of Plant Proteins and Their Potential Contribution to Human Health
Authors: Davies Robert W. , Jakeman Philip M.
Published: August 2020

The quality and nutritional value of dietary proteins are determined by the quantity, digestibility and bioavailability of essential amino acids (EAA), which play a critical role in human growth, longevity and metabolic health. Plant-source protein is often deficient in one or more EAAs (e.g., branched-chain amino acids, lysine, methionine and/or tryptophan) and, in its natural form, is less digestible than animal-source protein. Nevertheless, dietary intake of plant-source protein has been promoted because of its potential health benefits, lower cost of production and lower environmental impact compared to animal-source protein. Implementation of dietary strategies that improve both human and planetary health are of critical importance and subject to growing interest from researchers and consumers. Therefore, in this review we analyse current plant protein intake patterns and discuss possible countermeasures that can enhance plant protein nutrition, examples include: (1) combining different plant proteins with complementary EAA profiles; (2) identification and commercial cultivation of new and novel high-quality plant proteins; (3) industrial and domestic processing methods; and (4) genome-editing techniques.
Association of Serum Fatty Acids at Admission with the Age of Onset of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Mori Takahisa , Yoshioka Kazuhiro , Tanno Yuhei , Kasakura Shigen
Published: August 2020

Dietary triglycerides influence fatty acid (FA) serum concentrations and weight percentages (wt %), which may be associated with the age of onset of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We investigated the correlations between serum FA levels and proportions at admission and the age of onset of AIS. We evaluated patients with AIS admitted between 2016 and 2019 within 24 h of AIS onset and calculated the correlation coefficients between their ages, serum FA concentrations, and FA wt % values. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify independent FAs indicating AIS age of onset. Furthermore, we estimated the threshold values of independent FAs for age of onset <60 years using receiver operating characteristic curves by logistic regression. A total of 525 patients (median age: 75 years) met the inclusion criteria. The concentration of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) and wt % of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were significant independent variables for age of onset of AIS, and receiver operating characteristic curves for age of onset <60 years showed thresholds of ≥117.7 µmol/L for DGLA and ≤3.7% for DHA. An increased DGLA concentration and decreased DHA wt % were significantly associated with onset of AIS at a younger age.
Acute Malnutrition in Children: Pathophysiology, Clinical Effects and Treatment
Authors: Dipasquale Valeria , Cucinotta Ugo , Romano Claudio
Published: August 2020

Acute malnutrition is a nutritional deficiency resulting from either inadequate energy or protein intake. Children with primary acute malnutrition are common in developing countries as a result of inadequate food supply caused by social, economic, and environmental factors. Secondary acute malnutrition is usually due to an underlying disease causing abnormal nutrient loss, increased energy expenditure, or decreased food intake. Acute malnutrition leads to biochemical changes based on metabolic, hormonal, and glucoregulatory mechanisms. Most children with primary acute malnutrition can be managed at home with nutrition-specific interventions (i.e., counseling of parents, ensuring household food security, etc.). In case of severe acute malnutrition and complications, inpatient treatment is recommended. Secondary acute malnutrition should be managed by treating the underlying cause.
Effect of Co-Administration of Panax ginseng and Brassica oleracea on Postmenopausal Osteoporosis in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Kang In Soon , Agidigbi Taiwo Samuel , Kwon Young Min , Kim Dong-Gyu , Kim Rang Ie , In Gyo , Lee Mi-Hyang , Kim Chaekyun
Published: August 2020

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a common disorder resulting from increased osteoclastic activity. To determine the effect of Panax ginseng on postmenopausal osteoporosis, ovariectomized (OVX) mice were treated with 500 mg/kg/day P. ginseng extract (Pg) alone or in combination with hot water extract of Brassica oleracea (Bo) daily for 10 weeks, and the effect of the treatments on OVX-induced bone loss was examined. Bone weight, bone mineral density (BMD), osteoclast (OC) formation, OC marker expression, and biochemical parameters in blood were determined. OVX significantly increased body weight and decreased bone weight compared with those in the Sham group (p < 0.01). Pg or Bo alone did not affect OVX-induced bone loss, but a combination of Pg and Bo (Pg:Bo) recovered bone weight. The bones of OVX mice showed lower BMD than that of Sham mice, and the Pg:Bo = 3:1 restored the decreased BMD. Single treatment with Pg or Bo did not alter OC formation; however, the Pg:Bo = 3:1 inhibited OC formation. In addition, Pg and Bo lowered the OVX-induced elevation in blood glucose level. Thus, we suggest that Pg in combination with proper materials, such as Bo, might be a potential candidate treatment with minimal side effects protect against postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Evaluation of Glycemic Index Education in People Living with Type 2 Diabetes: Participant Satisfaction, Knowledge Uptake, and Application
Authors: M. Grant Shannan , J. Glenn Andrea , M. S. Wolever Thomas , G. Josse Robert , L. O’Connor Deborah , Thompson Alexandra , D. Noseworthy Rebecca , Seider Maxine , Sobie Melissa , Bhatti Gurita , Cavanagh Julianne , Jones Emily , B. Darling Pauline
Published: August 2020

The glycemic index (GI) has been included in the Canadian clinical practice guidelines for type 2 diabetes (T2D) management since 2003, and even longer in other parts of the world (e.g., Australia). Despite this, dietitians have reported that GI is “too difficult for patients to understand and apply.” They have called for diverse GI-utility data and evidence-informed education materials. To address these concerns, we developed and evaluated a GI education workshop and supporting materials, using the Kirkpatrick Model, for a T2D population. Participants (n = 29) with T2D attended a dietitian-facilitated workshop and received education materials. A mixed-form questionnaire (GIQ) and 3-day-diet-record were used to capture patient demographics, satisfaction, knowledge, and application, prior to and immediately after the workshop, 1-week, and 4-weeks post-education. Dietary GI was significantly lower at 1 and 4 weeks post-education (mean ± SEM; both 54 ± 1), compared to pre-education (58 ± 1; p ≤ 0.001). Participants (28/29) were satisfied with the intervention. The GI knowledge score was significantly higher post-education at baseline (83.5 ± 3.4%; p ≤ 0.001), week one (87.5 ± 2.6%; p = 0.035), and week four (87.6 ± 3.8%; p = 0.011) when compared to pre-education (53.6 ± 5.1%). A significant reduction in dietary GI was achieved by participants living with T2D, after completing the workshop, and they were able to acquire and apply GI knowledge in a relatively short period.
The Effect of Supportive Implementation of Healthier Canteen Guidelines on Changes in Dutch School Canteens and Student Purchase Behaviour
Authors: Evenhuis Irma J. , Jacobs Suzanne M. , Vyth Ellis L. , Veldhuis Lydian , de Boer Michiel R. , Seidell Jacob C. , Renders Carry M.
Published: August 2020

We developed an implementation plan including several components to support implementation of the “Guidelines for Healthier Canteens” in Dutch secondary schools. This study evaluated the effect of this plan on changes in the school canteen and on food and drink purchases of students. In a 6 month quasi-experimental study, ten intervention schools (IS) received support implementing the guidelines, and ten control schools (CS) received only the guidelines. Changes in the health level of the cafeteria and vending machines were assessed and described. Effects on self-reported purchase behaviour of students were analysed using mixed logistic regression analyses. IS scored higher on healthier availability in the cafeteria (77.2%) and accessibility (59.0%) compared to CS (60.1%, resp. 50.0%) after the intervention. IS also showed more changes in healthier offers in the cafeteria (range −3 to 57%, mean change 31.4%) and accessibility (range 0 to 50%, mean change 15%) compared to CS (range −9 to 46%, mean change 9.7%; range −30 to 20% mean change 7% resp.). Multi-level logistic regression analyses on the intervention/control and health level of the canteen in relation to purchase behaviour showed no relevant relations. In conclusion, the offered support resulted in healthier canteens. However, there was no direct effect on students’ purchase behaviour during the intervention.
The Effect of Leucine-Enriched Essential Amino Acid Supplementation on Anabolic and Catabolic Signaling in Human Skeletal Muscle after Acute Resistance Exercise: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Comparison Trial
Authors: Takegaki Junya , Sase Kohei , Yasuda Jun , Shindo Daichi , Kato Hiroyuki , Toyoda Sakiko , Yamada Toshiyuki , Shinohara Yasushi , Fujita Satoshi
Published: August 2020

Resistance exercise transiently activates anabolic and catabolic systems in skeletal muscle. Leucine-enriched essential amino acids (LEAAs) are reported to stimulate the muscle anabolic response at a lower dose than whey protein. However, little is known regarding the effect of LEAA supplementation on the resistance exercise-induced responses of the anabolic and catabolic systems. Here, we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group comparison trial to investigate the effect of LEAA supplementation on mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), the ubiquitin–proteasome system and inflammatory cytokines after a single bout of resistance exercise in young men. A total of 20 healthy young male subjects were supplemented with either 5 g of LEAA or placebo, and then they performed 10 reps in three sets of leg extensions and leg curls (70% one-repetition maximum). LEAA supplementation augmented the phosphorylation of mTORSer2448 (+77.1%, p < 0.05), p70S6KThr389 (+1067.4%, p < 0.05), rpS6Ser240/244 (+171.3%, p < 0.05) and 4EBP1Thr37/46 (+33.4%, p < 0.05) after resistance exercise. However, LEAA supplementation did not change the response of the ubiquitinated proteins, MuRF-1 and Atrogin-1 expression. Additionally, the mRNA expression of IL-1β and IL-6 did not change. These data indicated that LEAA supplementation augments the effect of resistance exercise by enhancing mTORC1 signal activation after exercise.
Expanding and Enhancing Food and Nutrition Education in New York City Public Schools: An Examination of Program Characteristics and Distribution
Authors: Koch Pamela , McCarthy Julia , Raffel Claire , Gray Heewon L. , Guerra Laura A.
Published: August 2020

To expand their capacity, many schools partner with food and nutrition education programs (FNPs). Public policies and funding can support FNPs, but comprehensive data on the organizations that run FNPs, their program characteristics, or distribution across schools did not exist in NYC. This study aims to help local education and health agencies assess the characteristics of food and nutrition education in schools, as well as to measure progress implementing school policies and practices. A cross-sectional study on NYC FNPs was conducted during the 2016–2017 school year. Survey data on organizations and the FNPs they operate were collected. Data on schools in which FNPs operate were gathered. To determine distribution of FNPs across schools and by school demographics, the database of FNPs in schools was combined with a publicly available database of NYC schools. In 2016–2017, 40 organizations operated 101 FNPs in 56% of NYC public schools. These FNPs varied by goals, content, activities, location, and populations served. Information on these variations can help policymakers, advocates, funders, and schools expand school-based food and nutrition education. To ensure equitable access, more coordination, investment, and collaboration are needed.
Identification and Morphological Characterization of Biofilms Formed by Strains Causing Infection in Orthopedic Implants
Authors: Coraça-Huber Débora C. , Kreidl Lisa , Steixner Stephan , Hinz Maximilian , Dammerer Dietmar , Fille Manfred
Published: August 2020

Objectives: For a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in biofilm formation, we performed a broad identification and characterization of the strains affecting implants by evaluating the morphology of biofilms formed in vitro in correlation with tests of the strains’ antibiotic susceptibility in planktonic form. The ability of the strains to form biofilms in vitro was evaluated by means of colony forming units counting, metabolic activity tests of biofilm cells, and scanning electron microscopy. Methods: A total of 140 strains were isolated from patients with orthopedic implant-related infections during the period of 2015 to 2018. The identification of the isolates was carried out through microbiological cultures and confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Antibiotic susceptibility rates of the isolates were accessed according to EUCAST (European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing). The ability of all isolates to form biofilms in vitro was evaluated by counting the colony forming units, by measuring the metabolic activity of biofilm cells, and by analyzing the morphology of the formed biofilms using scanning electron microscopy. Results: From all the isolates, 41.84% (62 strains) were Staphylococcus epidermidis and 15.60% (22 strains) were Staphylococcus aureus. A significant difference in the capacity of biofilm formation was observed among the isolates. When correlating the biofilm forming capacity of the isolates to their antibiotic susceptibility rates, we observed that not all strains that were classified as resistant were biofilm producers in vitro. In other words, bacteria that are not good biofilm formers can show increased tolerance to multiple antibiotic substances. Conclusion: From 2015 until 2018, Staphylococcus epidermidis was the strain that caused most of the orthopedic implant-related infections in our hospital. Not all strains causing infection in orthopedic implants are able to form biofilms under in vitro conditions. Differences were observed in the number of cells and morphology of the biofilms. In addition, antibiotic resistance is not directly related to the capacity of the strains to form biofilms in vitro. Further studies should consider the use of in vitro culture conditions that better reproduce the joint environment and the growth of biofilms in humans.
Profile and Content of Phenolic Compounds in Leaves, Flowers, Roots, and Stalks of Sanguisorba officinalis L. Determined with the LC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS Analysis and Their In Vitro Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, Antiproliferative Potency
Authors: Lachowicz Sabina , Oszmiański Jan , Rapak Andrzej , Ochmian Ireneusz
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to accurately determine the profile of polyphenols using the highly sensitive LC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS technique and to determine in vitro antioxidant activity, the ability of inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucoamylase, and pancreatic lipase activity, and antiproliferative activity in leaves, flowers, roots, and stalks of medical plant Sanguisorba officinalis L. The results of the analysis of the morphological parts indicated the presence of 130 polyphenols, including 62 that were detected in S. officinalis L. for the first time. The prevailing group was tannins, with contents ranging from 66.4% of total polyphenols in the flowers to 43.3% in the stalks. The highest content of polyphenols was identified in the flowers and reached 14,444.97 mg/100 g d.b., while the lowest was noted in the stalks and reached 4606.33 mg/100 g d.b. In turn, the highest values of the antiradical and reducing capacities were determined in the leaves and reached 6.63 and 0.30 mmol TE/g d.b, respectively. In turn, a high ability to inhibit activities of α-amylase and α-glucoamylase was noted in the flowers, while a high ability to inhibit the activity of pancreatic lipase was demonstrated in the leaves of S. officinalis L. In addition, the leaves and the flowers showed the most effective antiproliferative properties in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, colorectal adenocarcinoma, bladder cancer, and T-cell leukemia cells, whereas the weakest activity was noted in the stalks. Thus, the best dietetic material to be used when composing functional foods were the leaves and the flowers of S. officinalis L., while the roots and the stalks were equally valuable plant materials.
Progestogens Are Metabolized by the Gut Microbiota: Implications for Colonic Drug Delivery
Authors: Coombes Zoe , Yadav Vipul , McCoubrey Laura , Freire Cristina , Basit Abdul , Conlan R. , Gonzalez Deyarina
Published: August 2020

Following oral administration, the bioavailability of progestogens is very low and highly variable, in part due to metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes found in the mucosa of the small intestine. Conversely, the mucosa in the colon contains much lower levels of cytochrome P450 enzymes, thus, colonic delivery of progestogens may be beneficial. Microbiota in the colon are known to metabolize a great number of drugs, therefore, it is important to understand the stability of these hormones in the presence of colonic flora before developing formulations. The aim of this study was to investigate the stability of three progestogens: progesterone, and its two synthetic analogues, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and levonorgestrel (LNG), in the presence of human colonic microbiota. Progesterone, MPA, and LNG were incubated in mixed fecal inoculum (simulated human colonic fluid) under anerobic conditions. Progesterone was completely degraded after 2 h, whereas levels of MPA and LNG were still detectable after 24 h. The half-lives of progesterone, MPA, and LNG in fecal inoculum were 28, 644, and 240 min, respectively. This study describes the kinetics of colonic microbial metabolism of these hormones for the first time. MPA and LNG show promise for delivery to the colon, potentially improving pharmacokinetics over current oral delivery methods.
The Existence and Localization of Nuclear snoRNAs in Arabidopsis thaliana Revisited
Authors: Streit Deniz , Shanmugam Thiruvenkadam , Garbelyanski Asen , Simm Stefan , Schleiff Enrico
Published: August 2020

Ribosome biogenesis is one cell function-defining process. It depends on efficient transcription of rDNAs in the nucleolus as well as on the cytosolic synthesis of ribosomal proteins. For newly transcribed rRNA modification and ribosomal protein assembly, so-called small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and ribosome biogenesis factors (RBFs) are required. For both, an inventory was established for model systems like yeast and humans. For plants, many assignments are based on predictions. Here, RNA deep sequencing after nuclei enrichment was combined with single molecule species detection by northern blot and in vivo fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)-based localization studies. In addition, the occurrence and abundance of selected snoRNAs in different tissues were determined. These approaches confirm the presence of most of the database-deposited snoRNAs in cell cultures, but some of them are localized in the cytosol rather than in the nucleus. Further, for the explored snoRNA examples, differences in their abundance in different tissues were observed, suggesting a tissue-specific function of some snoRNAs. Thus, based on prediction and experimental confirmation, many plant snoRNAs can be proposed, while it cannot be excluded that some of the proposed snoRNAs perform alternative functions than are involved in rRNA modification.
Study on Viscoelastic Properties of Asphalt Mixtures Incorporating SBS Polymer and Basalt Fiber under Freeze–Thaw Cycles
Authors: Wang Wensheng , Tan Guojin , Liang Chunyu , Wang Yong , Cheng Yongchun
Published: August 2020

This study aims to study the viscoelastic properties of asphalt mixtures incorporating styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) polymer and basalt fiber under freeze–thaw (F-T) cycles by using the static creep test. Asphalt mixture samples incorporating styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) polymer and basalt fiber were manufactured following the Superpave gyratory compaction (SGC) method and coring as well as sawing. After 0 to 21 F-T cycles processing, a uniaxial compression static creep test for the asphalt mixture specimens was performed to evaluate the influence of F-T cycles. The results indicated that the F-T cycles caused a larger creep deformation in the asphalt mixtures, which led to a decrease in the rut resistance of the asphalt mixtures incorporating SBS polymer and basalt fiber. Besides, the resistance to deformation decreased significantly in the early stage of F-T cycles. On the other hand, the viscoelastic parameters were analyzed to discuss the variation of viscoelastic characteristics. The relaxation time increased with F-T cycles, which will not be conducive to internal stress dissipation. Compared with lignin fiber, basalt fiber can improve the resistance to high-temperature deformation and the low-temperature crack resistance of asphalt mixtures under F-T cycles.
Composite Fiber Networks Based on Polycaprolactone and Bioactive Glass-Ceramics for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Jinga Sorin-Ion , Costea Claudiu-Constantin , Zamfirescu Andreea-Ioana , Banciu Adela , Banciu Daniel-Dumitru , Busuioc Cristina
Published: August 2020

In this work, composite fibers connected in three-dimensional porous scaffolds were fabricated by electrospinning, starting from polycaprolactone and inorganic powders synthesized by the sol-gel method. The aim was to obtain materials dedicated to the field of bone regeneration, with controllable properties of bioresorbability and bioactivity. The employed powders were nanometric and of a glass-ceramic type, a fact that constitutes the premise of a potential attachment to living tissue in the physiological environment. The morphological characterization performed on the composite materials validated both the fibrous character and oxide powder distribution within the polymer matrix. Regarding the biological evaluation, the period of immersion in simulated body fluid led to the initiation of polymer degradation and a slight mineralization of the embedded particles, while the osteoblast cells cultured in the presence of these scaffolds revealed a spatial distribution at different depths and a primary networking tendency, based on the composites’ geometrical and dimensional features.
Progressive Failure and Energy Absorption of Chopped Bamboo Fiber Reinforced Polybenzoxazine Composite under Impact Loadings
Authors: Zhang Kai , Sun Yongyang , Wang Fangxin , Liang Wenyan , Wang Zhenqing
Published: August 2020

As a type of environmentally-friendly and low-cost natural material, bamboo fibers exhibit excellent mechanical properties. In this study, a bamboo fiber reinforced polybenzoxazine composite was fabricated by an improved hot-pressing process. The dynamic compressive behaviors of neat benzoxazine and its composite were comparatively studied by an SHPB (split Hopkinson pressure bar) apparatus. SHPB tests showed that the benzoxazine matrix and its composite exhibited significantly positive strain rate sensitivity at nominal strain rates in the range of 0.006–2500/s. During the impact loadings, the progressive deformation and failure of neat benzoxazine and bamboo composite were investigated by capturing real-time images with a high-speed camera. In comparison with neat benzoxazine, the bamboo composite had slightly higher maximum compressive stress under the same strain rates. It is noteworthy that the crashworthiness of the composite was remarkably better than that of neat benzoxazine due to the incorporation of bamboo fibers. For example, the energy absorption of bamboo composite was 105.7% higher than that of neat benzoxazine at a strain rate of 2500/s. The dynamic compressive properties of benzoxazine resin were much better than most of the conventional thermosetting resins. These results could guide the future application of this kind of composites.
Thermal Degradation Processes of Aromatic Poly(Ether Sulfone) Random Copolymers Bearing Pendant Carboxyl Groups
Authors: Dattilo Sandro , Puglisi Concetto , Mirabella Emanuele Francesco , Spina Angela , Scamporrino Andrea Antonino , Zampino Daniela Clotilde , Blanco Ignazio , Cicala Gianluca , Ognibene Giulia , Di Mauro Chiara , Samperi Filippo
Published: August 2020

Thermal degradation processes of poly(ether sulfone) random copolymers having different molar amount of diphenolic acid (DPA) units were studied by direct-pyrolysis/mass spectrometry, stepwise pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and thermogravimetric techniques. Results highlighted that thermal degradation processes occur in the temperature range from 370 to 650 °C, yielding a char residue of 32–35 wt%, which decreases as the mol% of DPA units rises. The pyrolysis/mass spectra data allowed us to identify the thermal decomposition products and to deduce the possible thermal degradation mechanisms. Thermal degradation data suggest that the decarboxylation process of the pendant acid moiety mainly occurs in the initial step of the pyrolysis of the copolymers studied. Successively, the scission of the generated isobutyl groups occurs in the temperature range between 420 and 480 °C. Known processes involving the main chain random scission of the diphenyl sulfone and diphenyl ether groups were also observed.
Cellular and Extracellular Proteome of the Animal Pathogen Corynebacterium silvaticum, a Close Relative of Zoonotic Corynebacterium ulcerans and Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis
Authors: Möller Jens , Schorlemmer Svenja , Hofmann Jörg , Burkovski Andreas
Published: August 2020

Corynebacterium silvaticum is a newly described animal pathogen, closely related to the emerging human pathogen Corynebacterium ulcerans and Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, a major pathogen of small ruminants. In this study, proteins of a whole cell and a shaving fraction and the exoproteome of C. silvaticum strain W25 were analyzed as a first proteome study of this species. In total, 1305 proteins were identified out of 2013 proteins encoded by the W25 genome sequence and number of putative virulence factors were detected already under standard growth conditions including phospholipase D and sialidase. An up to now uncharacterized trypsin-like protease is by far the most secreted protein in this species, indicating a putative role in pathogenicity. Furthermore, the proteome analyses carried out in this study support the recently published taxonomical delineation of C. silvaticum from the closely related zoonotic Corynebacterium species.
Sentinel-3 Microwave Radiometers: Instrument Description, Calibration and Geophysical Products Performances
Authors: Frery Marie-Laure , Siméon Mathilde , Goldstein Christophe , Féménias Pierre , Borde Franck , Houpert Alexandre , Olea Garcia Ana
Published: August 2020

Copernicus Sentinel-3 Surface Topography Mission embarks a two-channel microwave radiometer combined with the altimeter in order to correct the altimeter range for the excess path delay resulting from the presence of water vapour in the troposphere. The in-flight calibration of a single instrument is the critical point to achieve the expected performances. In the context of a constellation, the inter-calibration is even more important. After a presentation of the instrument design, we present the diagnoses used for the calibration of Sentinel-3A, using vicarious calibration over specific areas and double difference methods. The inter-calibration of Sentinel-3B with Sentinel-3A is performed during the tandem phase, using the residual differences of co-located measurements. Finally performances are assessed at crossover points with two parameters, first the wet troposphere correction by comparison with Jason-3; secondly on the Sea Surface Height by difference of variance. Analysis results have shown that Sentinel-3A is well calibrated, consistent with other instruments, and that Sentinel-3B is calibrated within 0.4 K with Sentinel-3A as a reference. Performances and stability fulfill the requirements for both missions.
Ensemble Modelling of Skipjack Tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) Habitats in the Western North Pacific Using Satellite Remotely Sensed Data; a Comparative Analysis Using Machine-Learning Models
Authors: Mugo Robinson , Saitoh Sei-Ichi
Published: August 2020

To examine skipjack tuna’s habitat utilization in the western North Pacific (WNP) we used an ensemble modelling approach, which applied a fisher- derived presence-only dataset and three satellite remote-sensing predictor variables. The skipjack tuna data were compiled from daily point fishing data into monthly composites and re-gridded into a quarter degree resolution to match the environmental predictor variables, the sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface chlorophyll-a (SSC) and sea surface height anomalies (SSHA), which were also processed at quarter degree spatial resolution. Using the sdm package operated in RStudio software, we constructed habitat models over a 9-month period, from March to November 2004, using 17 algorithms, with a 70:30 split of training and test data, with bootstrapping and 10 runs as parameter settings for our models. Model performance evaluation was conducted using the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC), the point biserial correlation coefficient (COR), the true skill statistic (TSS) and Cohen’s kappa (k) metrics. We analyzed the response curves for each predictor variable per algorithm, the variable importance information and the ROC plots. Ensemble predictions of habitats were weighted with the TSS metric. Model performance varied across various algorithms, with the Support Vector Machines (SVM), Boosted Regression Trees (BRT), Random Forests (RF), Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS), Generalized Additive Models (GAM), Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Recursive Partitioning and Regression Trees (RPART), and Maximum Entropy (MAXENT), showing consistently high performance than other algorithms, while the Flexible Discriminant Analysis (FDA), Mixture Discriminant Analysis (MDA), Bioclim (BIOC), Domain (DOM), Maxlike (MAXL), Mahalanobis Distance (MAHA) and Radial Basis Function (RBF) had lower performance. We found inter-algorithm variations in predictor variable responses. We conclude that the multi-algorithm modelling approach enabled us to assess the variability in algorithm performance, hence a data driven basis for building the ensemble model. Given the inter-algorithm variations observed, the ensemble prediction maps indicated a better habitat utilization map of skipjack tuna than would have been achieved by a single algorithm.
Exploiting High-Resolution Remote Sensing Soil Moisture to Estimate Irrigation Water Amounts over a Mediterranean Region
Authors: Dari Jacopo , Brocca Luca , Quintana-Seguí Pere , Escorihuela María José , Stefan Vivien , Morbidelli Renato
Published: August 2020

Despite irrigation being one of the main sources of anthropogenic water consumption, detailed information about water amounts destined for this purpose are often lacking worldwide. In this study, a methodology which can be used to estimate irrigation amounts over a pilot area in Spain by exploiting remotely sensed soil moisture is proposed. Two high-resolution DISPATCH (DISaggregation based on Physical And Theoretical scale CHange) downscaled soil moisture products have been used: SMAP (Soil Moisture Active Passive) and SMOS (Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity) at 1 km. The irrigation estimates have been obtained through the SM2RAIN algorithm, in which the evapotranspiration term has been improved to adequately reproduce the crop evapotranspiration over irrigated areas according to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) model. The experiment exploiting the SMAP data at 1 km represents the main work analyzed in this study and covered the period from January 2016 to September 2017. The experiment with the SMOS data at 1 km, for which a longer time series is available, allowed the irrigation estimates to be extended back to 2011. For both of the experiments carried out, the proposed method performed well in reproducing the magnitudes of the irrigation amounts that actually occurred in four of the five pilot irrigation districts. The SMAP experiment, for which a more detailed analysis was performed, also provided satisfactory results in representing the spatial distribution and the timing of the irrigation events. In addition, the investigation into which term of the SM2RAIN algorithm plays the leading role in determining the amount of water entering into the soil highlights the importance of correct representation of the evapotranspiration process.
Ground-Based Radar Interferometry for Monitoring the Dynamic Performance of a Multitrack Steel Truss High-Speed Railway Bridge
Authors: Huang Qihuan , Wang Yian , Luzi Guido , Crosetto Michele , Monserrat Oriol , Jiang Jianfeng , Zhao Hanwei , Ding Youliang
Published: August 2020

With the continuous expansion of the high-speed railway network in China, long-span railway bridges carrying multiple tracks demand reliable and fast testing procedures and techniques. Bridge dynamic behavior analysis is a critical process in ensuring safe operation of structures. In this study, we present some experimental results of the vibration monitoring of a four-track high-speed railway bridge with a metro–track on each side: the Nanjing–Dashengguan high-speed railway bridge (NDHRB). The results were obtained using a terrestrial microwave radar interferometer named IBIS-S. The radar measurements were interpreted with the support of lidar point clouds. The results of the bridge dynamic response under different loading conditions, including high-speed trains, metro and wind were compared with the existing bridge structure health monitoring (SHM) system, underlining the high spatial (0.5 m) and temporal resolutions (50 Hz–200 Hz) of this technique for railway bridge dynamic monitoring. The detailed results can help engineers capturing the maximum train-induced bridge displacement. The bridge was also monitored by the radar from a lateral position with respect to the bridge longitudinal direction. This allowed us to have a more exhaustive description of the bridge dynamic behavior. The different effects induced by the passage of trains through different tracks and directions were distinguished. In addition, the space deformation map of the wide bridge deck under the eccentric load of trains, especially along the lateral direction (30 m), can help evaluating the running stability of high-speed trains.
A Hierarchical Machine Learning Approach for Multi-Level and Multi-Resolution 3D Point Cloud Classification
Authors: Teruggi Simone , Grilli Eleonora , Russo Michele , Fassi Francesco , Remondino Fabio
Published: August 2020

The recent years saw an extensive use of 3D point cloud data for heritage documentation, valorisation and visualisation. Although rich in metric quality, these 3D data lack structured information such as semantics and hierarchy between parts. In this context, the introduction of point cloud classification methods can play an essential role for better data usage, model definition, analysis and conservation. The paper aims to extend a machine learning (ML) classification method with a multi-level and multi-resolution (MLMR) approach. The proposed MLMR approach improves the learning process and optimises 3D classification results through a hierarchical concept. The MLMR procedure is tested and evaluated on two large-scale and complex datasets: the Pomposa Abbey (Italy) and the Milan Cathedral (Italy). Classification results show the reliability and replicability of the developed method, allowing the identification of the necessary architectural classes at each geometric resolution.
Block Diagonal Hybrid Precoding and Power Allocation for QoS-Aware BDMA Downlink Transmissions
Authors: Niu Guanchong , Cao Qi , Pun Manon
Published: August 2020

Beam Division Multiple Access (BDMA) with hybrid precoding has recently been proposed for multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) systems by simultaneously transmitting multiple digitally precoded users’ data-streams via different beams. In contrast to most existing works that assume the number of radio frequency (RF) chains must be greater than or equal to that of data-streams, this work proposes a novel BDMA downlink system by first grouping transmitting data-streams before digitally precoding data group by group. To fully harvest the benefits of this new architecture, a greedy user grouping algorithm is devised to minimize the inter-group interference while two digital precoding approaches are developed to suppress the intra-group interference by maximizing the signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) and the signal-to-leakage-and-noise ratio (SLNR), respectively. As a result, the proposed BDMA system requires less RF chains than the total number of transmit data-streams. Furthermore, we optimize the power allocation to satisfy each user’s quality of service (QoS) requirement using the D.C. (difference of convex functions) programming technique. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Wearable Belt With Built-In Textile Electrodes for Cardio—Respiratory Monitoring
Authors: Piuzzi Emanuele , Pisa Stefano , Pittella Erika , Podestà Luca , Sangiovanni Silvia
Published: August 2020

Unobtrusive and continuous monitoring of vital signs is becoming more and more important both for patient monitoring in the home environment and for sports activity tracking. Even though many gadgets and clinical systems exist, the need for simple, low-cost and easily applicable solutions still remains, especially in view of a more widespread use within everyone’s reach. The paper presents a fully wearable and wireless sensorized belt, suitable to simultaneously acquire respiratory and cardiac signals employing a single acquisition channel. The adopted method relies on a 50-kHz current injected in the subject thorax through a couple of textile electrodes and on envelope detection of the trans-thoracic voltage acquired from a couple of different embedded electrodes. The resulting signal contains both the baseband electrocardiogram (ECG) signal and the trans-thoracic impedance signal, which encodes respiratory acts. The two signals can be easily separated through suitable filtering and the cardio–respiratory rates extracted. The proposed solution yields performances comparable to those of a spirometer and a two-lead ECG. The whole system, with a realization cost below 100 €, a wireless interface, and several hours (or even days) of autonomy, is a suitable candidate for everyday use, especially if complemented by motion artifact removal techniques, currently under implementation.