bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemometrics-Assisted Monitoring in Raman Spectroscopy for the Biodegradation Process of an Aqueous Polyfluoroalkyl Ether from a Fire-Fighting foam in an Environmental Matrix
Authors: Marchetti Mario , Offroy Marc , Abdat Ferroudja , Branchu Philippe , Bourson Patrice , Jobard Céline , Durmont Jean-François , Casteran Guillaume
Published: January 2020

Surfactants based on polyfluoroalkyl ethers are commonly used in fire-fighting foams on airport platforms, including for training sessions. Because of their persistence into the environment, their toxicity and their bioaccumulation, abnormal amounts can be found in ground and surface water following the operations of airport platforms. As with many other anthropogenic, organic compounds, some concerns are raised about their biodegradation. That is why the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 301 F protocol was implemented to monitor the oxygen consumption during the biodegradation of a commercial fire-fighting foam. However, a Raman spectroscopic monitoring of the process was also attached to this experimental procedure to evaluate to what extent a polyfluoroalkyl ether disappeared from the environmental matrix. Our approach relies on the use of chemometrics, such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares (PLS), in order to monitor the kinetics of the biodegradation reaction of one fire-fighting foam, Tridol S3B, containing a polyfluoroalkyl ether. This study provided a better appreciation of the partial biodegradation of some polyfluoroalkyl ethers by coupling Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics. This will ultimately facilitate the design of future purification and remediation devices for airport platforms.
Identification of Yeasts with Mass Spectrometry during Wine Production
Authors: Kačániová Miroslava , Kunová Simona , Sabo Jozef , Ivanišová Eva , Žiarovská Jana , Felsöciová Soňa , Terentjeva Margarita
Published: January 2020

The aim of the present study was to identify yeasts in grape, new wine “federweisser” and unfiltered wine samples. A total amount of 30 grapes, 30 new wine samples and 30 wine samples (15 white and 15 red) were collected from August until September, 2018, from a local Slovak winemaker, including Green Veltliner (3), Mūller Thurgau (3), Palava (3), Rhein Riesling (3), Sauvignon Blanc (3), Alibernet (3), André (3), Blue Frankish (3), Cabernet Sauvignon (3), and Dornfelder (3) grapes; federweisser and unfiltered wine samples were also used in our study. Wort agar (WA), yeast extract peptone dextrose agar (YPDA), malt extract agar (MEA) and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) were used for microbiological testing of yeasts. MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry (Microflex LT/SH) (Bruker Daltonics, Germany) was used for the identification of yeasts. A total of 1668 isolates were identified with mass spectrometry. The most isolated species from the grapes was Hanseniaspora uvarum, and from federweisser and the wine—Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Management of Plant Physiology with Beneficial Bacteria to Improve Leaf Bioactive Profiles and Plant Adaptation under Saline Stress in Olea europea L.
Authors: Galicia-Campos Estrella , Ramos-Solano Beatriz , Montero-Palmero Mª. Belén , Gutierrez-Mañero F. Javier , García-Villaraco Ana
Published: January 2020

Global climate change has increased warming with a concomitant decrease in water availability and increased soil salinity, factors that compromise agronomic production. On the other hand, new agronomic developments using irrigation systems demand increasing amounts of water to achieve an increase in yields. Therefore, new challenges appear to improve plant fitness and yield, while limiting water supply for specific crops, particularly, olive trees. Plants have developed several innate mechanisms to overcome water shortage and the use of beneficial microorganisms to ameliorate symptoms appears as a challenging alternative. Our aim is to improve plant fitness with beneficial bacterial strains capable of triggering plant metabolism that targets several mechanisms simultaneously. Our secondary aim is to improve the content of molecules with bioactive effects to valorize pruning residues. To analyze bacterial effects on olive plantlets that are grown in saline soil, photosynthesis, photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes (proline and soluble sugars), and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging enzymes (superoxide dismutase-SOD and ascorbate peroxidase-APX) and molecules (phenols, flavonols, and oleuropein) were determined. We found photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant molecules, net photosynthesis, and water use efficiency to be the most affected parameters. Most strains decreased pigments and increased osmolytes and phenols, and only one strain increased the antihypertensive molecule oleuropein. All strains increased net photosynthesis, but only three increased water use efficiency. In conclusion, among the ten strains, three improved water use efficiency and one increased values of pruning residues.
Effect of Different Starches on the Rheological, Sensory and Storage Attributes of Non-fat Set Yogurt
Authors: Saleh Ali , Mohamed Abdellatif A. , Alamri Mohammed S. , Hussain Shahzad , Qasem Akram A. , Ibraheem Mohamed A.
Published: January 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of various native starches on the rheological and textural properties of non-fat set yogurt. The yogurt samples were prepared while using five types of starches (potato, sweet potato, corn, chickpea, and Turkish beans). The physical properties of the prepared yogurt were analyzed while using shear viscosity, viscoelasticity, and texture analysis. The tests were performed after 0, 7, and 15 days storage. The effect of these starches on the yogurt viscoelastic properties, texture, syneresis, and sensory evaluation were determined under optimum conditions. The results showed that adding 1% starch could significantly (p < 0.05) reduce syneresis and improve yogurt firmness. Starches exhibited different effect on the overall quality of the yogurt due to their origin and amylose content. Regardless of the number of storage period duration, all of the samples, including the control behaved as pseudoplastic materials (n < 1) with various levels of pseudoplasticity. Yogurts with corn and tuber starches had the highest consistency coefficient (k), which indicated higher viscosity. The yogurt sample with chickpea starch exhibited the highest G´, making the gel more solid like. Therefore, the influence of tuber starches (potato and sweet potato) on G´ was different when compared to corn or legume starches. The behavior of the starches changed with storage time, where some starches performed better only at the beginning of the storage period duration. Wheying-off was significantly reduced, regardless of starch type. The pH of the yogurt remained unchanged through storage. Sensory evaluation showed a preference for starch-containing samples as compared to the control, regardless of the starch type. The variation in yogurt quality as a function of starch type could be attributed to the starch granule structure, gelatinization mechanism, or amylose content.
Alpha-Cyclodextrin Attenuates the Glycemic and Insulinemic Impact of White Bread in Healthy Male Volunteers
Authors: Bär Albert , Diamantis Ioannis , Venetz Werner P.
Published: January 2020

The demonstration of a physiological benefit has recently become an indispensible element of the definition of dietary fibers. In the here-reported pilot study, the effect of alpha-cyclodextrin (alpha-CD) on the postprandial glycemic and insulinemic effect of starch was examined. Twelve fasted, healthy male volunteers received, on three subsequent days, a test breakfast consisting of (A) 100 g fresh white bread (providing 50 g starch) and 250 mL drinking water, (B) the same bread with a supplement of 10 g alpha-CD dissolved in the drinking water, and (C) 25 g alpha-CD dissolved in drinking water. Capillary and venous blood was sampled before the breakfast and in regular intervals for a three-hour period thereafter. Glucose was determined in capillary blood and insulin in the plasma of venous blood samples. Breakfast (A) led to a rapid rise in blood glucose and insulin. In breakfast (B), alpha-CD reduced the areas under the curve of blood glucose and insulin significantly by 59% and 57%, respectively, demonstrating that alpha-CD inhibits and thereby delays starch digestion. Treatment (C) was not associated with a rise of blood glucose. Hence, alpha-CD complies with the current definition of dietary fiber in every respect.
Applications of Stellar Population Synthesis in the Distant Universe
Authors: Stanway Elizabeth R.
Published: January 2020

Comparison with artificial galaxy models is essential for translating the incomplete and low signal-to-noise data we can obtain on astrophysical stellar populations to physical interpretations which describe their composition, physical properties, histories and internal conditions. In particular, this is true for distant galaxies, whose unresolved light embeds clues to their formations and evolutions, and their impacts on their wider environs. Stellar population synthesis models are now used as the foundation of analysis at all redshifts, but are not without their problems. Here we review the use of stellar population synthesis models, with a focus on applications in the distant Universe.
Genome Resolved Biogeography of Mamiellales
Authors: Leconte Jade , Benites L. Felipe , Vannier Thomas , Wincker Patrick , Piganeau Gwenael , Jaillon Olivier
Published: January 2020

Among marine phytoplankton, Mamiellales encompass several species from the genera Micromonas, Ostreococcus and Bathycoccus, which are important contributors to primary production. Previous studies based on single gene markers described their wide geographical distribution but led to discussion because of the uneven taxonomic resolution of the method. Here, we leverage genome sequences for six Mamiellales species, two from each genus Micromonas, Ostreococcus and Bathycoccus, to investigate their distribution across 133 stations sampled during the Tara Oceans expedition. Our study confirms the cosmopolitan distribution of Mamiellales and further suggests non-random distribution of species, with two triplets of co-occurring genomes associated with different temperatures: Ostreococcus lucimarinus, Bathycoccus prasinos and Micromonas pusilla were found in colder waters, whereas Ostreococcus spp. RCC809, Bathycoccus spp. TOSAG39-1 and Micromonas commoda were more abundant in warmer conditions. We also report the distribution of the two candidate mating-types of Ostreococcus for which the frequency of sexual reproduction was previously assumed to be very low. Indeed, both mating types were systematically detected together in agreement with either frequent sexual reproduction or the high prevalence of a diploid stage. Altogether, these analyses provide novel insights into Mamiellales’ biogeography and raise novel testable hypotheses about their life cycle and ecology.
A New Assessment of Thioester-Containing Proteins Diversity of the Freshwater Snail Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Duval David , Pichon Remi , Lassalle Damien , Laffitte Maud , Gourbal Benjamin , Galinier Richard
Published: January 2020

Thioester-containing proteins (TEPs) superfamily is known to play important innate immune functions in a wide range of animal phyla. TEPs are involved in recognition, and in the direct or mediated killing of several invading organisms or pathogens. While several TEPs have been identified in many invertebrates, only one TEP (named BgTEP) has been previously characterized in the freshwater snail, Biomphalaria glabrata. As the presence of a single member of that family is particularly intriguing, transcriptomic data and the recently published genome were used to explore the presence of other BgTEP related genes in B. glabrata. Ten other TEP members have been reported and classified into different subfamilies: Three complement-like factors (BgC3-1 to BgC3-3), one α-2-macroblobulin (BgA2M), two macroglobulin complement-related proteins (BgMCR1, BgMCR2), one CD109 (BgCD109), and three insect TEP (BgTEP2 to BgTEP4) in addition to the previously characterized BgTEP that we renamed BgTEP1. This is the first report on such a level of TEP diversity and of the presence of macroglobulin complement-related proteins (MCR) in mollusks. Gene structure analysis revealed alternative splicing in the highly variable region of three members (BgA2M, BgCD109, and BgTEP2) with a particularly unexpected diversity for BgTEP2. Finally, different gene expression profiles tend to indicate specific functions for such novel family members.
Exposure Models for REACH and Occupational Safety and Health Regulations
Authors: Cherrie John William , Fransman Wouter , Heussen Gerardus Antonius Henrikus , Koppisch Dorothea , Jensen Keld Alstrup
Published: January 2020

Model tools for estimating hazardous substance exposure are an accepted part of regulatory risk assessments in Europe, and models underpin control banding tools used to help manage chemicals in workplaces. Of necessity the models are simplified abstractions of real-life working situations that aim to capture the essence of the scenario to give estimates of actual exposures with an appropriate margin of safety. The basis for existing inhalation exposure assessment tools has recently been discussed by some scientists who have argued for the use of more complex models. In our opinion, the currently accepted tools are documented to be the most robust way for workplace health and safety practitioners and others to estimate inhalation exposure. However, we recognise that it is important to continue the scientific development of exposure modelling to further elaborate and improve the existing methodologies.
Factors Associated with Alcohol-Related Injuries for Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Australians: An Observational Study
Authors: Snijder Mieke , Calabria Bianca , Dobbins Timothy , Shakeshaft Anthony
Published: January 2020

Alcohol use and related injuries are a leading risk factor for deaths and disabilities in Australia, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. An improved understanding of individual and geographical community characteristics that are significantly associated with higher rates of alcohol-related injuries for specific populations can contribute to more effective efforts aimed at reducing alcohol-related injuries. For Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians in New South Wales, this study used emergency department (ED) data to investigate rates of alcohol-related injuries, whether differences in rates vary between communities, and individual and community characteristics significantly associated with alcohol-related injuries. Differences in rates of alcohol-related injuries between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people varied significantly between communities. Being younger than 38 years old was significantly associated with increased risk of alcohol-related injuries, independent of Aboriginal status and gender. Increased disadvantage of the geographical community inhabited was associated with increased alcohol-related injuries for males. For Aboriginal males, living in a regional community was significantly associated with increased alcohol-related injuries, compared to living in major cities. Conversely, for non-Aboriginal people, living in regional communities was significantly associated with fewer alcohol-related injuries. It is therefore likely that an explanation for between-community differences can be found in regional communities.
Rumination and Emotional Profile in Children with Specific Learning Disorders and Their Parents
Authors: Bonifacci Paola , Tobia Valentina , Marra Vanessa , Desideri Lorenzo , Baiocco Roberto , Ottaviani Cristina
Published: January 2020

Rumination, namely a cognitive process characterized by a repetitive thinking focused on negative feelings and thoughts, is a significant predictor for the onset of internalizing symptoms and has also been found to run in families. Rumination has never been studied in children with specific learning disorders (SLD), a population that, due to its condition, might encounter more difficulties in daily life and is at risk of increased psychological distress, compared to typically developing (TD) peers. The present study covers this gap by examining whether children with SLD, and their parents, tend to use rumination more than TD peers and their parents. The study also explores associations between rumination and both children’s and parents’ emotional profile. Results on 25 children with SLD and 25 TD peers and their parents (n = 150), showed higher levels of rumination in children with SLD when referring to a negative social situation, as well as higher levels of rumination in both mothers and fathers of children with SLD. Modest correlations between parents’ and children’s rumination traits were also found. This study offers evidence on rumination as a possible risk factor for children with SLD, particularly considering when they deal with social contexts.
Evidence for Environmental Noise Effects on Health for the United Kingdom Policy Context: A Systematic Review of the Effects of Environmental Noise on Mental Health, Wellbeing, Quality of Life, Cancer, Dementia, Birth, Reproductive Outcomes, and Cognition
Authors: Clark Charlotte , Crumpler Clare , Notley Hilary
Published: January 2020

This systematic review commissioned by the UK Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), considers how the evidence base for noise effects on health has changed following the recent reviews undertaken for the WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines. This systematic review assesses the quality of the evidence for environmental noise effects on mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life; birth and reproductive outcomes; and cognition for papers published since the WHO reviews (mid-2015 to March 2019), as well as for cancer and dementia (January 2014 to March 2019). Using the GRADE methodology (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) most evidence was rated as low quality as opposed to very low quality in the previous reviews. There is now low-quality evidence for a harmful effect of road traffic noise on medication use and interview measures of depression and anxiety and low quality evidence for a harmful effect of road traffic noise, aircraft noise, and railway noise on some cancer outcomes. Many other conclusions from the WHO evidence reviews remain unchanged. The conclusions remain limited by the low number of studies for many outcomes. The quantification of health effects for other noise sources including wind turbine, neighbour, industrial, and combined noise remains a research priority.
Gender Informed or Gender Ignored? Opportunities for Gender Transformative Approaches in Brief Alcohol Interventions on College Campuses
Authors: Wolfson Lindsay , Stinson Julie , Poole Nancy
Published: January 2020

Brief alcohol interventions are an effective strategy for reducing harmful and risky alcohol use and misuse. Many effective brief alcohol interventions include information and advice about an individual’s alcohol use, changing their use, and assistance in developing strategies and goals to help reduce their use. Emerging research suggests that brief interventions can also be expanded to address multiple health outcomes; recognizing that the flexible nature of these approaches can be helpful in tailoring information to specific population groups. This scoping review synthesizes evidence on the inclusion of sex and gender in brief alcohol interventions on college campuses, highlighting available evidence on gender responsiveness in these interventions. Furthermore, this scoping review offers strategies on how brief alcohol interventions can be gender transformative, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of brief alcohol interventions as harm reduction and prevention strategies, and in promoting gender equity.
Improving Knowledge that Alcohol Can Cause Cancer is Associated with Consumer Support for Alcohol Policies: Findings from a Real-World Alcohol Labelling Study
Authors: Weerasinghe Ashini , Schoueri-Mychasiw Nour , Vallance Kate , Stockwell Tim , Hammond David , McGavock Jonathan , Greenfield Thomas K. , Paradis Catherine , Hobin Erin
Published: January 2020

Knowledge that alcohol can cause cancer is low in Canada. Alcohol labels are one strategy for communicating alcohol-related harms, including cancer. Extending existing research observing an association between knowledge of the alcohol–cancer link and support for alcohol policies, this study examined whether increases in individual-level knowledge that alcohol is a carcinogen following an alcohol labelling intervention are associated with support for alcohol polices. Cancer warning labels were applied to alcohol containers at the intervention site, and the comparison site did not apply cancer labels. Pre-post surveys were conducted among liquor store patrons at both sites before and two-and six-months after the intervention was stopped due to alcohol industry interference. Limiting the data to participants that completed surveys both before and two-months after the cancer label stopped, logistic regression was used to examine the association between increases in knowledge and support for policies. Support for pricing and availability policies was low overall; however, increases in individual-level knowledge of the alcohol-cancer link was associated with higher levels of support for pricing policies, specifically, setting a minimum unit price per standard drink of alcohol (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.11–3.12). Improving knowledge that alcohol can cause cancer using labels may increase support for alcohol policies. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/16320
Campylobacter concisus Impairs Sodium Absorption in Colonic Epithelium via ENaC Dysfunction and Claudin-8 Disruption
Authors: Nattramilarasu Praveen Kumar , Bücker Roland , Lobo de Sá Fábia Daniela , Fromm Anja , Nagel Oliver , Lee In-Fah Maria , Butkevych Eduard , Mousavi Soraya , Genger Claudia , Kløve Sigri , Heimesaat Markus M. , Bereswill Stefan , Schweiger Michal R. , Nielsen Hans Linde , Troeger Hanno , Schulzke Jörg-Dieter
Published: January 2020

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) can increase the colonic absorptive capacity for salt and water. Campylobacter concisus is a common pathogenic epsilonproteobacterium, causing enteritis and diarrhea. It can induce barrier dysfunction in the intestine, but its influence on intestinal transport function is still unknown. Therefore, our study aimed to characterize C. concisus effects on ENaC using the HT-29/B6-GR/MR (epithelial cell line HT-29/B6 transfected with glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors) cell model and mouse colon. In Ussing chambers, C. concisus infection inhibited ENaC-dependent Na+ transport as indicated by a reduction in amiloride-sensitive short circuit current (−55%, n = 15, p < 0.001). This occurred via down-regulation of β- and γ-ENaC mRNA expression and ENaC ubiquitination due to extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 activation, predicted by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). In parallel, C. concisus reduced the expression of the sealing tight junction (TJ) protein claudin-8 and induced claudin-8 redistribution off the TJ domain of the enterocytes, which facilitates the back leakage of Na+ ions into the intestinal lumen. In conclusion, C. concisus caused ENaC dysfunction via interleukin-32-regulated ERK1/2, as well as claudin-8-dependent barrier dysfunction—both of which contribute to Na+ malabsorption and diarrhea.
Structure and Stoichiometry of the Ton Molecular Motor
Authors: Celia Herve , Noinaj Nicholas , Buchanan Susan K
Published: January 2020

The Ton complex is a molecular motor that uses the proton gradient at the inner membrane of Gram-negative bacteria to generate force and movement, which are transmitted to transporters at the outer membrane, allowing the entry of nutrients into the periplasmic space. Despite decades of investigation and the recent flurry of structures being reported by X-ray crystallography and cryoEM, the mode of action of the Ton molecular motor has remained elusive, and the precise stoichiometry of its subunits is still a matter of debate. This review summarizes the latest findings on the Ton system by presenting the recently reported structures and related reports on the stoichiometry of the fully assembled complex.
Na+-Coupled Nutrient Cotransport Induced Luminal Negative Potential and Claudin-15 Play an Important Role in Paracellular Na+ Recycling in Mouse Small Intestine
Authors: Nakayama Michiko , Ishizuka Noriko , Hempstock Wendy , Ikari Akira , Hayashi Hisayoshi
Published: January 2020

Many nutrients are absorbed via Na+ cotransport systems, and therefore it is predicted that nutrient absorption mechanisms require a large amount of luminal Na+. It is thought that Na+ diffuses back into the lumen via paracellular pathways to support Na+ cotransport absorption. However, direct experimental evidence in support of this mechanism has not been shown. To elucidate this, we took advantage of claudin-15 deficient (cldn15−/−) mice, which have been shown to have decreased paracellular Na+ permeability. We measured glucose-induced currents (ΔIsc) under open- and short-circuit conditions and simultaneously measured changes in unidirectional 22Na+ fluxes (ΔJNa) in Ussing chambers. Under short-circuit conditions, application of glucose resulted in an increase in ΔIsc and unidirectional mucosal to serosal 22Na+ (∆JNaMS) flux in both wild-type and cldn15−/− mice. However, under open-circuit conditions, ΔIsc was observed but ∆JNaMS was strongly inhibited in wild-type but not in cldn15−/− mice. In addition, in the duodenum of mice treated with cholera toxin, paracellular Na+ conductance was decreased and glucose-induced ∆JNaMS increment was observed under open-circuit conditions. We concluded that the Na+ which is absorbed by Na+-dependent glucose cotransport is recycled back into the lumen via paracellular Na+ conductance through claudin-15, which is driven by Na+ cotransport induced luminal negativity.
Correction: Abbasi, A. et al. Poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide)-Based Hydroxide Exchange Separator Membranes for Zinc-Air Battery. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20, 3678
Authors: Abbasi Ali , Hosseini Soraya , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Mohamad Ahmad Azmin , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: January 2020

The authors would like to make the following corrections to their paper published in the International Journal of Molecular Science [...]
The Novel Synthetic Peptide AESIS-1 Exerts a Preventive Effect on Collagen-Induced Arthritis Mouse Model via STAT3 Suppression
Authors: Kim Kyung Eun , Jeon Suwon , Song Jisun , Kim Tae Sung , Jung Min Kyung , Kim Myun Soo , Park Sunyoung , Park Seung Beom , Park Jeong Min , Park Hyun Jeong , Cho Daeho
Published: January 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that is associated with systemic inflammation and results in the destruction of joints and cartilage. The pathogenesis of RA involves a complex inflammatory process resulting from the action of various proinflammatory cytokines and, therefore, many novel therapeutic agents to block cytokines or cytokine-mediated signaling have been developed. Here, we tested the preventive effects of a small peptide, AESIS-1, in a mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) with the aim of identifying a novel safe and effective biological for treating RA. This novel peptide significantly suppressed the induction and development of CIA, resulting in the suppression of synovial inflammation and cartilage degradation in vivo. Moreover, AESIS-1 regulated JAK/STAT3-mediated gene expression in vitro. In particular, the gene with the most significant change in expression was suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (Socs3), which was enhanced 8-fold. Expression of the STAT3-specific inhibitor, Socs3, was obviously enhanced dose-dependently by AESIS-1 at both the mRNA and protein levels, resulting in a significant reduction of STAT3 phosphorylation in splenocytes from severe CIA mice. This indicated that AESIS-1 regulated STAT3 activity by upregulation of SOCS3 expression. Furthermore, IL-17 expression and the frequency of Th17 cells were considerably decreased by AESIS-1 in vivo and in vitro. Collectively, our data suggest that the novel synthetic peptide AESIS-1 could be an effective therapeutic for treating RA via the downregulation of STAT3 signaling.
TNF-Block Genotypes Influence Susceptibility to HIV-Associated Sensory Neuropathy in Indonesians and South Africans
Authors: Gaff Jessica , Octaviana Fitri , Pillay Prinisha , Ngassa Mbenda Huguette Gaelle , Ariyanto Ibnu A. , Gan June Anne , Cherry Catherine L. , Kamerman Peter , Laws Simon M. , Price Patricia
Published: January 2020

HIV-associated sensory neuropathy (HIV-SN) is a disabling complication of HIV disease and antiretroviral therapies (ART). Since stavudine was removed from recommended treatment schedules, the prevalence of HIV-SN has declined and associated risk factors have changed. With stavudine, rs1799964*C (TNF-1031) associated with HIV-SN in Caucasians and Indonesians but not in South Africans. Here, we investigate associations between HIV-SN and rs1799964*C and 12 other polymorphisms spanning TNF and seven neighboring genes (the TNF-block) in Indonesians (n = 202; 34/168 cases) and South Africans (n = 75; 29/75 cases) treated without stavudine. Haplotypes were derived using fastPHASE and haplotype networks built with PopART. There were no associations with rs1799964*C in either population. However, rs9281523*C in intron 10 of BAT1 (alternatively DDX39B) independently associated with HIV-SN in Indonesians after correcting for lower CD4 T-cell counts and >500 copies of HIV RNA/mL (model p = 0.0011, Pseudo R2 = 0.09). rs4947324*T (between NFKBIL1 and LTA) independently associated with reduced risk of HIV-SN and shared haplotype 1 (containing no minor alleles) associated with increased risk of HIV-SN after correcting for greater body weight, a history of tuberculosis and nadir CD4 T-cell counts (model: p = 0.0003, Pseudo R2 = 0.22). These results confirm TNF-block genotypes influence susceptibility of HIV-SN. However, critical genotypes differ between ethnicities and with stavudine use.
Revisiting the Pharmacological Value of Glucagon: An Editorial for the Special Issue “The Biology and Pharmacology of Glucagon”
Authors: Müller Timo D. , Habegger Kirk
Published: January 2020

In 1921, a Canadian research team led by Frederick Banting and John Macleod succeeded in the isolation of insulin from pancreatic homogenate [...]
Analysis of Synaptic Microcircuits in the Mushroom Bodies of the Honeybee
Authors: Groh Claudia , Rössler Wolfgang
Published: January 2020

Mushroom bodies (MBs) are multisensory integration centers in the insect brain involved in learning and memory formation. In the honeybee, the main sensory input region (calyx) of MBs is comparatively large and receives input from mainly olfactory and visual senses, but also from gustatory/tactile modalities. Behavioral plasticity following differential brood care, changes in sensory exposure or the formation of associative long-term memory (LTM) was shown to be associated with structural plasticity in synaptic microcircuits (microglomeruli) within olfactory and visual compartments of the MB calyx. In the same line, physiological studies have demonstrated that MB-calyx microcircuits change response properties after associative learning. The aim of this review is to provide an update and synthesis of recent research on the plasticity of microcircuits in the MB calyx of the honeybee, specifically looking at the synaptic connectivity between sensory projection neurons (PNs) and MB intrinsic neurons (Kenyon cells). We focus on the honeybee as a favorable experimental insect for studying neuronal mechanisms underlying complex social behavior, but also compare it with other insect species for certain aspects. This review concludes by highlighting open questions and promising routes for future research aimed at understanding the causal relationships between neuronal and behavioral plasticity in this charismatic social insect.
Prognostic Abilities of Serial Neuron-Specific Enolase and Lactate and their Combination in Cardiac Arrest Survivors During Targeted Temperature Management
Authors: Ryoo Seung Mok , Kim Youn-Jung , Sohn Chang Hwan , Ahn Shin , Seo Dong Woo , Kim Won Young
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to determine the prognostic ability of serial neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and lactate in cardiac arrest survivors treated with targeted temperature management (TTM) and to investigate whether a combination of NSE and lactate could increase prognostic information. This observational, retrospective, cohort study was conducted between January 2013 and December 2018; data were extracted from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest registry. We collected serial serum NSE and lactate levels during TTM. The primary endpoint was poor neurological outcome at 28 days from cardiac arrest. Of all 160 included patients, 98 (61.3%) had poor neurological outcomes. Areas under the curves (AUCs) for NSE were 0.797, 0.871, and 0.843 at 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively (all p < 0.05). AUCs for lactate were 0.669, 0.578, 0.634, and 0.620 at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively (all p < 0.05). Although the combination of initial lactate and NSE at 48 h yielded the highest discovered AUC (0.877) it was not statistically different from that for the 48 h NSE alone (p = 0.692). During the TTM, NSE at 48 h from cardiac arrest was the most robust prognostic marker in comatose cardiac arrest survivors. However, a combination of the 48 h NSE with lactate did not increase the prognostic information.
Nocturnal Hypoxemia Impacts Right Ventricle Diastolic Function in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Scotti Carla , Porta Roberto , Olivares Adriana , Comini Laura , Cinelli Angelo , Scalvini Simonetta , Vitacca Michele
Published: January 2020

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), although a growing healthcare problem and documented risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, is still under-diagnosed in cardiac patients. To investigate the correlation between OSA and echocardiographic parameters of right ventricle diastolic (RVD) dysfunction, in particular trans-tricuspid E-wave deceleration time (EDT), we retrospectively analyzed data of 103 pure (comorbidity-free) OSA patients with comprehensive echocardiographic examination (ETT). Apnea/hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), mean nighttime oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2), time elapsed with SpO2 < 90% (T90) and mean peak desaturation of nocturnal events (Mdes, graded as mild, medium or severe) were compared with echocardiographic parameters. We found RVD dysfunction present in 58.3% of patients. Altered EDT correlated significantly with mean SpO2, T90, and Mdes (p < 0.01, all). Nocturnal desaturators had a significantly worse EDT than non-desaturators (p = 0.027) and a higher risk of prolonged EDT (odds ratio, OR = 2.86). EDT differed significantly according to Mdes severity (p = 0.005) with a higher risk of prolonged EDT in medium/severe vs. mild Mdes (OR = 3.44). EDT detected the presence of RVD dysfunction in 58.3% of our pure OSA patients. It correlated poorly with AHI severity but strongly with nocturnal desaturation severity, independently of age. This ETT marker may be useful for deciding appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Heart-Type Fatty Acid-Binding Protein (H-FABP) and Its Role as a Biomarker in Heart Failure: What Do We Know So Far?
Authors: Rezar Richard , Jirak Peter , Gschwandtner Martha , Derler Rupert , Felder Thomas K. , Haslinger Michael , Kopp Kristen , Seelmaier Clemens , Granitz Christina , Hoppe Uta C. , Lichtenauer Michael
Published: January 2020

Background: Heart failure (HF) remains one of the leading causes of death to date despite extensive research funding. Various studies are conducted every year in an attempt to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapy monitoring. The small cytoplasmic heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) has been studied in a variety of disease entities. Here, we provide a review of the available literature on H-FABP and its possible applications in HF. Methods: Literature research using PubMed Central was conducted. To select possible studies for inclusion, the authors screened all available studies by title and, if suitable, by abstract. Relevant manuscripts were read in full text. Results: In total, 23 studies regarding H-FABP in HF were included in this review. Conclusion: While, algorithms already exist in the area of risk stratification for acute pulmonary embolism, there is still no consensus for the routine use of H-FABP in daily clinical practice in HF. At present, the strongest evidence exists for risk evaluation of adverse cardiac events. Other future applications of H-FABP may include early detection of ischemia, worsening of renal failure, and long-term treatment planning.
Local Extremes of Selected Industry 4.0 Indicators in the European Space—Structure for Autonomous Systems
Authors: Botlíková Milena , Botlík Josef
Published: January 2020

In the past, the social and economic impacts of industrial revolutions have been clearly identified. The current Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) is characterized by robotization, digitization, and automation. This will transform the production processes, but also the services or financial markets. Specific groups of people and activities may be replaced by new information technologies. Changes represent an extreme risk of economic instability and social change. The authors described available published sources and selected a group of indicators related to Industry 4.0. The indicators were divided into five groups and summarized by negative or positive impact. The indicators were analyzed by precedence analysis. Extremes in the geographical dislocation of factor values were found. Furthermore, spatial dependencies in the distribution of these extremes were found by calculating multiple (long) precedencies. European countries were classified according to individual groups of indicators. The results were compared with the real values of the indicators. The indicated extremes and their distribution will allow to predict changes in the behavior of the population given by changes in the socio-economic environment. The behavior of the population can be described by the behavior of autonomous systems on selected infrastructure. The paper presents research related to the creation of a multiagent model for the prediction of spatial changes in population distribution induced by Industry 4.0.
N′-Acetyl-3-methyl-1,6-diphenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-4-carbohydrazide
Authors: Soares Júlio C. A. V. , Dias Luiza R. S.
Published: January 2020

Synthesis of N′-acetyl-3-methyl-1,6-diphenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-4-carbohydrazide from the phenyl acetates of 3-acetyl-5-(3-methyl-1,6-diphenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-4-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl in alkaline medium and its characterization by spectroscopic methods.
Preparation and Characterization of Alumina HDPE Composites
Authors: Saleh Mohamed , Al-Hajri Zainab , Popelka Anton , Javaid Zaidi Syed
Published: January 2020

In this study, effects of two different types of porous alumina nanoparticles have been incorporated into high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to study their impact on the properties of the HDPE composite. The dispersion of fillers in the HDPE matrix was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) integrated with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were applied to investigate the calorimetric behavior and thermal stability and to analyze the polymer decomposition, respectively. The dielectric properties were determined by a broadband dielectric spectroscopy. The effect of filler loading on the tensile properties and melt flow index was also examined. A homogenous distribution of the fillers was observed at low loading of alumina particles (below 5 wt. %). However, agglomerates of sub-micro size were formed extensively on samples with high loading of fillers (above 7 wt. %). A significant improvement of the thermo-oxidation stability of the composite was observed. The permittivity values of the prepared composites also increased with the addition of the fillers. The incorporation of fillers also increased the electrical conductivity values of the prepared composites at high frequencies.
Facile Aqueous-Phase Synthesis of Bimetallic (AgPt, AgPd, and CuPt) and Trimetallic (AgCuPt) Nanoparticles
Authors: Tang Zengmin , Jung Euiyoung , Jang Yejin , Bhang Suk Ho , Kim Jinheung , Kim Woo-Sik , Yu Taekyung
Published: January 2020

Multi-metallic nanoparticles continue to attract attention, due to their great potential in various applications. In this paper, we report a facile aqueous-phase synthesis for multi-metallic nanoparticles, including AgPt, AgPd, CuPt, and AgCuPt, by a co-reduction method within a short reaction time of 10 min. The atomic ratio of bimetallic nanoparticles was easily controlled by varying the ratio of each precursor. In addition, we found that AgCuPt trimetallic nanoparticles had a core-shell structure with an Ag core and CuPt shell.
Self-Sensing Carbon Nanotube Composites Exposed to Glass Transition Temperature
Authors: Jang Sung-Hwan , Li Long-Yuan
Published: January 2020

This paper reported the effect of high temperature on the electro-mechanical behavior of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced epoxy composites. CNT/epoxy composites were fabricated by dispersing CNTs in the epoxy matrix using a solution casting method. Electrical conductivity measurements obtained for the CNT/epoxy composites indicated a steadily increasing directly proportional relationship with CNT concentration with a percolation threshold at 0.25 wt %, reaching a maximum of up to 0.01 S/m at 2.00 wt % CNTs. The electro-mechanical behavior of CNT/epoxy composites were investigated at a room temperature under the static and cyclic compressive loadings, resulting that the change in resistance of CNT/epoxy composites was reduced as increasing CNT concentration with good repeatability. This is due to well-networked CNTs conducting pathways created within the solid epoxy matrix observed by scanning electron microscopy. Temperature significantly affects the electro-mechanical behavior of CNT/epoxy composites. In particular, the electro-mechanical behavior of CNT/epoxy composites below the glass transition temperature showed the similar trend with those at room temperature, whereas the electro-mechanical behavior of CNT/epoxy composites above the glass transition temperature showed an opposite change in resistance with poor repeatability due to unstable CNT network in epoxy matrix.
The Antibacterial Efficacy and In Vivo Toxicity of Sodium Hypochlorite and Electrolyzed Oxidizing (EO) Water-Based Endodontic Irrigating Solutions
Authors: Hsieh Sung-Chih , Teng Nai-Chia , Chu Chia Chun , Chu You-Tai , Chen Chung-He , Chang Liang-Yu , Hsu Chieh-Yun , Huang Ching-Shuan , Hsiao Grace Ying-Wen , Yang Jen-Chang
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus mutans and in vivo toxicity using embryonic zebrafish assays of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and electrolyzed oxidizing (EO) water (containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl))-based root canal irrigating solutions. Methodology: Using 100 μL microbial count of 1 × 108 cfu/mL Enterococcus faecalis to mix with each 10 mL specimen of NaOCl or HOCl for designed time periods. The above protocol was also repeated for Streptococcus mutans. The concentration of viable microorganisms was estimated based on each standardized inoculum using a plate-count method. Zebrafish embryo assays were used to evaluate acute toxicity. Results: All the HOCl or NaOCl treatment groups showed > 99.9% antibacterial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus mutans. Zebrafish embryos showed almost complete dissolution in 1.5% NaOCl within 5 min. Both survival rates after being treated with 0.0125% and 0.0250% HOCl for 0.5 min or 1.0 min were similar to that of E3 medium. Conclusions: Both NaOCl and HOCl revealed similar antibacterial efficacy (> 99.9%) against Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus mutans. While 1.5% NaOCl fully dissolved the Zebrafish embryos, both 0.0125% and 0.0250% HOCl showed little in vivo toxicity, affirming its potential as an alternative irrigation solution for vital pulp therapy.
Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Nanohydroxyapatite Powder in Combination with Polylactic Acid/Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer as Bone Replacement Graft in the Surgical Treatment of Intrabony Periodontal Defects: A Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Verardi Simone , Lombardi Teresa , Stacchi Claudio
Published: January 2020

The aim of this retrospective case series was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of nanohydroxyapatite powder (NHA) in combination with polylactic acid/polyglycolic acid copolymer (PLGA) as a bone replacement graft in the surgical treatment of intrabony periodontal defects. Medical charts were screened following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Periodontal parameters and periapical radiographs taken before surgery and at 12-month follow-up were collected. Intra-group comparisons were performed using a two-tailed Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Twenty-five patients (13 males, 12 females, mean age 55.1 ± 10.5 years) were included in the final analysis. Mean probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) at baseline were 8.32 ± 1.41 mm and 9.96 ± 1.69 mm, respectively. Twelve months after surgery, mean PD was 4.04 ± 0.84 mm and CAL was 6.24 ± 1.71 mm. Both PD and CAL variations gave statistically significant results (p < 0.00001). The mean radiographic defect depth was 5.54 ± 1.55 mm and 1.48 ± 1.38 mm at baseline and at 12-month follow-up, respectively (p < 0.0001). This case series, with the limitations inherent in the study design, showed that the combination of NHA and PLGA, used as bone replacement graft in intrabony periodontal defects, may give significant improvements of periodontal parameters at 12-month follow-up.
Friction, Abrasion and Crack Growth Behavior of In-Situ and Ex-Situ Silica Filled Rubber Composites
Authors: Vaikuntam Sankar Raman , Bhagavatheswaran Eshwaran Subramani , Xiang Fei , Wießner Sven , Heinrich Gert , Das Amit , Stöckelhuber Klaus Werner
Published: January 2020

The article focuses on comparing the friction, abrasion, and crack growth behavior of two different kinds of silica-filled tire tread compounds loaded with (a) in-situ generated alkoxide silica and (b) commercial precipitated silica-filled compounds. The rubber matrix consists of solution styrene butadiene rubber polymers (SSBR). The in-situ generated particles are entirely different in filler morphology, i.e., in terms of size and physical structure, when compared to the precipitated silica. However, both types of the silicas were identified as amorphous in nature. Influence of filler morphology and surface modification of silica on the end performances of the rubbers like dynamic friction, abrasion index, and fatigue crack propagation were investigated. Compared to precipitated silica composites, in-situ derived silica composites offer better abrasion behavior and improved crack propagation with and without admixture of silane coupling agents. Silane modification, particle morphology, and crosslink density were identified as further vital parameters influencing the investigated rubber properties.