bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire Incidents in a Mental Health Setting: Effects of Implementing Smokefree Polices and Permitting the Use of Different Types of E-Cigarettes
Authors: Robson Debbie , Spaducci Gilda , McNeill Ann , Yates Mary , Wood Melissa , Richardson Sol
Published: December 2020

Comprehensive smokefree policies in health care settings can have a positive impact on patients’ smoking behaviour, but implementation is impeded by concern that surreptitious smoking may increase fire incidents. We investigated the incidence of routinely reported fire and false alarm incidents in a large mental health organisation in England over an 81-month period when different elements of a smokefree policy were implemented. We used negative binomial regression models to test associations between rates of fire and false alarm incidents and three hospital smokefree policy periods with mutual adjustment for occupied bed days: (1) an indoor policy which allowed disposable e-cigarettes; (2) a comprehensive policy which allowed disposable e-cigarettes; and (3) a comprehensive policy with all e-cigarette types allowed. We identified 90 fires and 200 false alarms. Fires decreased (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.35, 95% CI: 0.17–0.72, p = 0.004) and false alarms increased (IRR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.02–2.76, p = 0.043), each by approximately two-thirds, when all e-cigarette types were allowed, after adjusting for bed occupancy and the comprehensive smokefree policy. Implementation of smokefree policies in mental health care settings that support use of all types of e-cigarettes may reduce fire risks, though measures to minimise effects of e-cigarette vapour on smoke detector systems may be needed to reduce false alarm incidents.
Theory-Based, Participatory Development of a Cross-Company Network Promoting Physical Activity in Germany: A Mixed-Methods Approach
Authors: Hoffmann Carina , Stassen Gerrit , Schaller Andrea
Published: December 2020

The untapped potential of workplace health promotion (WHP) in smaller companies and the promising approach to promote physical activity in the workplace requires application-oriented approaches. This study describes the participatory, theory-based development of a cross-company network with a multicomponent intervention for promoting physical activity in smaller companies. The BIG-Manual (from the “Movement as an Investment for Health” project, German—BIG) was the theoretical framework for developing the cross-company network. Qualitative and quantitative data sources were used to identify the requests and requirements of stakeholders (employees on site, local exercise providers, company representatives and network partners) regarding measures promoting physical activity and the cross-company network. The methods applied included two workshops (n = 13; n = 15), individual semi-structured interviews (n = 8) and a survey (n = 285). The analysis revealed that a large number of stakeholders must be taken into consideration for physical activity promotion in cross-company networks. Many similarities between the requests of employees and further stakeholders concerning a multicomponent intervention for promoting physical activity could be identified. Present gender-specific and physical activity-related differences show the importance of target group-specific intervention planning in the context of WHP. This study makes an important contribution for the development of future cross-company networks promoting physical activity and yields valuable information for the design of a multicomponent intervention promoting physical activity.
A Pilot Study of a Psychoeducational Group Intervention Delivered at Asylum Accommodation Centers—A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Leiler Anna , Wasteson Elisabet , Holmberg Joanna , Bjärtå Anna
Published: December 2020

Asylum seekers suffer high levels of distress but have restricted access to mental health care. This paper constitutes an evaluation of a psycho-educational group intervention, called AMIN, which was provided at two asylum accommodation centers in Sweden. A mixed-methods approach was used. To assess potential effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility, quantitative outcome measures were combined with qualitative information from interviews with both intervention participants and staff providing the intervention. Potential effectiveness in reducing symptoms of distress and insomnia and in increasing physical quality of life was found, even though the intervention participants suffered from more severe distress than expected. In general, the intervention seemed to be acceptable to both participants and staff, with concrete strategies seeming more meaningful than abstract psychological techniques. Finally, regardless of the asylum process itself being a complicating factor, the intervention seemed feasible to deliver to individuals with different backgrounds and conditions. Taken together, these results indicate that some sessions may need further elaboration, but also that the transition to a randomized control trial is reasonable.
Risks of Aerosol Contamination in Dental Procedures during the Second Wave of COVID-19—Experience and Proposals of Innovative IPC in Dental Practice
Authors: Gandolfi Maria Giovanna , Zamparini Fausto , Spinelli Andrea , Sambri Vittorio , Prati Carlo
Published: December 2020

Dental-care workers operate very close to the patient’s mouth and are at high risk of contamination by SARS-CoV-2. Droplets may be contaminated by patient’s saliva and exhaled breath particles. All asymptomatic patients should be considered as Coronavirus positive. All dental procedures must be revised after positive identification of SARS-Cov-2. Novel recommendations as the use of novel suction cannula designed for fast spray/saliva aspiration, use of Tyvek suits and innovative sprayhoods designed for dental-care worker protections are proposed to prevent virus transmission. New tailored operative and clinical procedures are being currently developed by university dental clinics and hospitals in attempt to reduce risk for dental workers and patients.
Relationship between Long-Term Residential Green Exposure and Individuals’ Mental Health: Moderated by Income Differences and Residential Location in Urban China
Authors: Zhang Xue , Zhou Suhong , Lin Rongping , Su Lingling
Published: December 2020

Environmental health effects during urbanization have attracted much attention. However, knowledge is lacking on the relationship between long-term cumulative residential environment and health effects on individuals during rapid transformations in urban physical and social space. Taking Guangzhou, China, as a case example, this study analyzed the relationship between long-term exposure to green environments and residents’ mental health under urban spatial restructuring. Based on a household survey in 2016, 820 residents who have lived in Guangzhou for more than 15 years were used as the sample. High-resolution remote sensing images were used to assess the long-term green exposure of residents. The results indicate that long-term green exposure in residential areas had a negative correlation with residents’ mental health (p < 0.05), and the correlation was strongest for the cumulative green environment in the last five years. However, this significant effect was moderated by income and residential location. Green exposure had a positive relationship with mental health for low income groups, and a negative relationship for middle and high income groups. In addition, residents living farther away from the city center were likely to have fewer green environmental health benefits. Residential relocation in a rapidly urbanizing and transforming China has led to the continuous differentiation of residential green environments among different income groups, which has also caused different mental health effects from green exposure. It provides empirical evidence and theoretical support for policymakers to improve the urban environment and reduce environmental health disparities by considering social differences and residential location.
Exploring Effective Sensory Experience in the Environmental Design of Sustainable Cafés
Authors: Chen Yen-Cheng , Lin Hsiang-Chun
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study was to explore and construct spatial indicators suitable for green café ambience. The indicators were further empirically verified. A three-round questionnaire survey, based on the Delphi method, was conducted with 15 experts, including university professors (food and beverage services management and interior environmental design), café operators, and personnel from government agencies. Data were collected, and the results on the characteristics of the repeated feedback from the experts were convergent. Thirty-six indicators suitable for the design of green café ambience were extracted, of which 17 were verified by actual cafés as highly operable. The five-sense indicators of sustainable green ambience design obtained in this study can facilitate positive customer experiences and enhance the appeal of maintaining sustainable green trends for cafés. These indicators can also provide references for café operators in business planning and green café ambience design.
The Association between Metabolic Syndrome and Related Factors among the Community-Dwelling Indigenous Population in Taiwan
Authors: Tsao Yu-Chung , Li Wen-Cheng , Yeh Wei-Chung , Ueng Steve Wen-Neng , Chiu Sherry Yueh-Hsia , Chen Jau-Yuan
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study was to conduct a community-based study with a view to construct a detailed analysis about metabolic syndrome and the related risk factors of the indigenous population. This was an observational, population-based and cross-sectional study that was conducted in remote villages of an indigenous community in northern Taiwan between 2010 and 2013. A total of 586 participants, 275 men and 311 women, were eligible for analysis. The participants underwent a questionnaire survey that included demographic and health behavior issues. An anthropometric assessment and measurements of blood pressure were carried out including serum biochemical variables. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was defined by following the criteria provided by the modified Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Univariate and multiple logistic regressions were used to identify the risk factors for metabolic syndrome. The standardized prevalence rates of substance use (cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking and betel nut chewing) were significantly higher than the general population regardless of whether it was northern, central or southern Taiwan and this was especially the case with betel nut chewing in women. The prevalence rate of metabolic syndrome was 42.9% in the indigenous population with 41.3% in men and 44.4% in women, which was higher than for urban Taiwanese. In the multiple logistic regression models, we found that the significant associated factors for metabolic syndrome were older age, lower education level, high levels of uric acid, alanine transaminase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT) and creatinine. A higher prevalence rate of metabolic syndrome and substance use were observed in the indigenous population compared with urban Taiwanese, especially in women.
The Impact of Childhood and Adult Educational Attainment and Economic Status on Later Depressive Symptoms and Its Intergenerational Effect
Authors: Park Aely
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to investigate a process accounting for the socioeconomic inequality in depressive symptoms from generation to generation. To examine the process, this study utilized data from three generations of grandparents, mothers, and daughters. This study employed data from the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women and Families, collected from a large-scale national representative sample in South Korea. Conducting pathway analysis, the study tested direct and indirect pathways between mother’s socioeconomic status (SES) experienced in childhood and their offspring’s depressive symptoms through maternal SES and depressive symptoms in adulthood. This study found that early economic hardship increased the risk of depressive symptoms in daughters through maternal low education and depressive symptoms (β = 0.03, p < 0.05), which was consistent with the theoretical framework, which relied on a life-course model highlighting that early life experiences affect later adult health and can potentially have effects across generations. This finding suggests that interventions that work with maternal education and depression may benefit from efforts to break the likelihood of continuity of depressive symptoms into the next generation, especially for their own daughters.
Geographic Inequalities of Respiratory Health Services Utilization during Childhood in Edmonton and Calgary, Canada: A Tale of Two Cities
Authors: Serrano-Lomelin Jesus , Nielsen Charlene C. , Hicks Anne , Crawford Susan , Bakal Jeffrey A. , Ospina Maria B.
Published: December 2020

Young children are susceptible to respiratory diseases. Inequalities exist across socioeconomic groups for paediatric respiratory health services utilization in Alberta. However, the geographic distribution of those inequalities has not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to identify geographic inequalities in respiratory health services utilization in early childhood in Calgary and Edmonton, two major urban centres in Western Canada. We conducted a geographic analysis of data from a retrospective cohort of all singleton live births occurred between 2005 and 2010. We aggregated at area-level the total number of episodes of respiratory care (hospitalizations and emergency department visits) that occurred during the first five years of life for bronchiolitis, pneumonia, lower/upper respiratory tract infections, influenza, and asthma-wheezing. We used spatial filters to identify geographic inequalities in the prevalence of acute paediatric respiratory health services utilization in Calgary and Edmonton. The average health gap between areas with the highest and the lowest prevalence of respiratory health services utilization was 1.5-fold in Calgary and 1.4-fold in Edmonton. Geographic inequalities were not completely explained by the spatial distribution of socioeconomic status, suggesting that other unmeasured factors at the neighbourhood level may explain local variability in the use of acute respiratory health services in early childhood.
Measuring the Efficiency of Fiscal Policies for Environmental Pollution Control and the Spatial Effect of Fiscal Decentralization in China
Authors: Zhou Caihua , Zhang Xinmin
Published: December 2020

This paper uses both fiscal expenditure policy and fiscal revenue policy as input indicators and selects environmental pollution control results reflecting different forms and sources of pollution as output indicators. The efficiency of fiscal policies for environmental pollution control (EFPE) of 30 provincial-level administrative divisions in China from 2007 to 2017 is measured by adopting the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method. Then, the spatial effect of fiscal decentralization on EFPE is empirically analyzed by using the spatial lag model (SLM). The results show that EFPE values in China have been greatly improved overall since 2014. The change in technical efficiency (TE) is caused mainly by the change in pure technical efficiency (PTE). EFPE values have regional heterogeneity and convergence. The eastern region has clearly higher EFPE values than other regions. The growth rate of the low efficient region is greater than that of the high efficient region. Fiscal expenditure decentralization has a direct negative effect and spatial spillover effect on EFPE values, while fiscal revenue decentralization has a non-significant effect. Based on these results, this paper proposes the following policy implications: increasing the level of fiscal expenditure of environmental pollution control and improving the central transfer payment system for environmental protection; reforming the government performance assessment system and innovating the conditions of government expenditure on environmental pollution control; and promoting horizontal fiscal cooperation in cross-regional environmental governance.
Role of PD-L1 in Gut Mucosa Tolerance and Chronic Inflammation
Authors: Chulkina Marina , Beswick Ellen J. , Pinchuk Irina V.
Published: December 2020

The gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa is among the most complex systems in the body. It has a diverse commensal microbiome challenged continuously by food and microbial components while delivering essential nutrients and defending against pathogens. For these reasons, regulatory cells and receptors are likely to play a central role in maintaining the gut mucosal homeostasis. Recent lessons from cancer immunotherapy point out the critical role of the B7 negative co-stimulator PD-L1 in mucosal homeostasis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge supporting the critical role of PD-L1 in gastrointestinal mucosal tolerance and how abnormalities in its expression and signaling contribute to gut inflammation and cancers. Abnormal expression of PD-L1 and/or the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathways have been observed in the pathology of the GI tract. We also discuss the current gap in our knowledge with regards to PD-L1 signaling in the GI tract under homeostasis and pathology. Finally, we summarize the current understanding of how this pathway is currently targeted to develop novel therapeutic approaches.
Establishment of Murine Hybridoma Cells Producing Antibodies against Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Antipova Nadezhda V. , Larionova Tatyana D. , Siniavin Andrei E. , Nikiforova Maria A. , Gushchin Vladimir A. , Babichenko Igor I. , Volkov Alexey V. , Shakhparonov Michail I. , Pavlyukov Marat S.
Published: December 2020

In 2020 the world faced the pandemic of COVID-19 severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by a new type of coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. To stop the spread of the disease, it is crucial to create molecular tools allowing the investigation, diagnoses and treatment of COVID-19. One of such tools are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). In this study we describe the development of hybridoma cells that can produce mouse mAbs against receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein. These mAbs are able to specifically detect native and denatured S proteins in all tested applications, including immunoblotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence staining of cells and immunohistochemical staining of paraffin embedded patients’ tissue samples. In addition, we showed that the obtained mAbs can efficiently block SARS-CoV-2 infection in in vitro experiments. Finally, we determined the amino acid sequence of light and heavy chains of the mAbs. This information will allow the use of corresponding peptides to establish genetically engineered therapeutic antibodies. To date multiple mAbs against SARS-CoV-2 proteins have been established, however, bigger sets of various antibodies will allow the detection and neutralization of SARS-CoV-2, even if the virus acquires novel mutations.
Oxidative Stress Impact on the Transcriptome of Differentiating Neuroblastoma Cells: Implication for Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Khavari Behnaz , Mahmoudi Ebrahim , Geaghan Michael P. , Cairns Murray J.
Published: December 2020

Prenatal environmental exposures that have been shown to induce oxidative stress (OS) during pregnancy, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, are risk factors for the onset of schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). While the OS role in the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases is well known, its contribution to the genomic dysregulation associated with psychiatric disorders is less well defined. In this study we used the SH-SY5Y cell line and applied RNA-sequencing to explore transcriptomic changes in response to OS before or during neural differentiation. We observed differential expression of many genes, most of which localised to the synapse and were involved in neuronal differentiation. These genes were enriched in schizophrenia-associated signalling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, axon guidance, and signalling by retinoic acid. Interestingly, circulatory system development was affected by both treatments, which is concordant with observations of increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients with NDDs. We also observed a very significant increase in the expression of immunity-related genes, supporting current hypotheses of immune system involvement in psychiatric disorders. While further investigation of this influence in other cell and animal models is warranted, our data suggest that early life exposure to OS has a disruptive influence on neuronal gene expression that may perturb normal differentiation and neurodevelopment, thereby contributing towards overall risk for developing psychiatric diseases.
Growth by Insertion: The Family of Bacterial DDxP Proteins
Authors: Di Nocera Pierpaolo , De Gregorio Eliana
Published: December 2020

We have identified a variety of proteins in species of the Legionella, Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Vibrio, Nitrosomonas, Nitrosospira, Variovorax, Halomonas, and Rhizobia genera, which feature repetitive modules of different length and composition, invariably ending at the COOH side with Asp–Asp–x–Pro (DDxP) motifs. DDxP proteins range in size from 900 to 6200 aa (amino acids), and contain 1 to 5 different module types, present in one or multiple copies. We hypothesize that DDxP proteins were modeled by the action of specific endonucleases inserting DNA segments into genes encoding DDxP motifs. Target site duplications (TSDs) formed upon repair of staggered ends generated by endonuclease cleavage would explain the DDxP motifs at repeat ends. TSDs acted eventually as targets for the insertion of more modules of the same or different types. Repeat clusters plausibly resulted from amplification of both repeat and flanking TSDs. The proposed growth shown by the insertion model is supported by the identification of homologous proteins lacking repeats in Pseudomonas and Rhizobium. The 85 DDxP repeats identified in this work vary in length, and can be sorted into short (136–215 aa) and long (243–304 aa) types. Conserved Asp–Gly–Asp–Gly–Asp motifs are located 11–19 aa from the terminal DDxP motifs in all repeats, and far upstream in most long repeats.
PTEN and Other PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 Lipid Phosphatases in Breast Cancer
Authors: Csolle Mariah P. , Ooms Lisa M. , Papa Antonella , Mitchell Christina A.
Published: December 2020

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signalling pathway is hyperactivated in ~70% of breast cancers. Class I PI3K generates PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 at the plasma membrane in response to growth factor stimulation, leading to AKT activation to drive cell proliferation, survival and migration. PTEN negatively regulates PI3K/AKT signalling by dephosphorylating PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 to form PtdIns(4,5)P2. PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 can also be hydrolysed by the inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatases (5-phosphatases) to produce PtdIns(3,4)P2. Interestingly, while PTEN is a bona fide tumour suppressor and is frequently mutated/lost in breast cancer, 5-phosphatases such as PIPP, SHIP2 and SYNJ2, have demonstrated more diverse roles in regulating mammary tumourigenesis. Reduced PIPP expression is associated with triple negative breast cancers and reduced relapse-free and overall survival. Although PIPP depletion enhances AKT phosphorylation and supports tumour growth, this also inhibits cell migration and metastasis in vivo, in a breast cancer oncogene-driven murine model. Paradoxically, SHIP2 and SYNJ2 are increased in primary breast tumours, which correlates with invasive disease and reduced survival. SHIP2 or SYNJ2 overexpression promotes breast tumourigenesis via AKT-dependent and independent mechanisms. This review will discuss how PTEN, PIPP, SHIP2 and SYNJ2 distinctly regulate multiple functional targets, and the mechanisms by which dysregulation of these distinct phosphoinositide phosphatases differentially affect breast cancer progression.
Metals in Imaging of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Krasnovskaya Olga , Spector Daniil , Zlobin Alexander , Pavlov Kirill , Gorelkin Peter , Erofeev Alexander , Beloglazkina Elena , Majouga Alexander
Published: December 2020

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the deposition of amyloid plaques in the brain parenchyma, which occurs 7–15 years before the onset of cognitive symptoms of the pathology. Timely diagnostics of amyloid formations allows identifying AD at an early stage and initiating inhibitor therapy, delaying the progression of the disease. However, clinically used radiopharmaceuticals based on 11C and 18F are synchrotron-dependent and short-lived. The design of new metal-containing radiopharmaceuticals for AD visualization is of interest. The development of coordination compounds capable of effectively crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) requires careful selection of a ligand moiety, a metal chelating scaffold, and a metal cation, defining the method of supposed Aβ visualization. In this review, we have summarized metal-containing drugs for positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of Alzheimer’s disease. The obtained data allow assessing the structure-ability to cross the BBB ratio.
Stable Reference Genes for qPCR Analysis in BM-MSCs Undergoing Osteogenic Differentiation within 3D Hyaluronan-Based Hydrogels
Authors: Hasler Johannes , Hatt Luan Phelipe , Stoddart Martin James , Armiento Angela Rita
Published: December 2020

Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) enables the monitoring of changes in cell phenotype via the high-throughput screening of numerous genes. RT-qPCR is a fundamental approach in numerous research fields, including biomaterials, yet little attention has been given to the potential impact of 3D versus monolayer (2D) cell culture and to the requirement for a constant validation of the multiple steps of gene expression analysis. The aim of this study is to use high-quality RNA to identify the most suitable reference genes for RT-qPCR analysis during the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BM-MSCs). BM-MSCs are cultured under osteogenic conditions for 28 days in 2D or within hyaluronic acid hydrogels (3D). RNA is subject to quality controls and is then used to identify the most stable reference genes using geNorm, NormFinder, and the ∆Cq method. The effect of the reverse transcriptase is investigated, as well as the expression of osteogenic-related markers. This study shows marked differences in the stability of reference genes between 2D (RPLP0/GAPDH) and 3D (OAZ1/PPIA) culture, suggesting that it is critical to choose appropriate reference genes for 3D osteogenic cell cultures. Thus, a thorough validation under specific experimental settings is essential to obtain meaningful gene expression results.
Landscape Simplification Modifies Trap-Nesting Bee and Wasp Communities in the Subtropics
Authors: Wilson Rachele S. , Leonhardt Sara D. , Burwell Chris J. , Fuller Chris , Smith Tobias J. , Kaluza Benjamin F. , Wallace Helen M.
Published: December 2020

(1) Background: Landscape simplification is a major threat to bee and wasp conservation in the tropics, but reliable, long-term population data are lacking. We investigated how community composition, diversity, and abundance of tropical solitary bees and wasps change with landscape simplification (plant diversity, plant richness, distance from forest, forest cover, and land use type) and season. (2) Methods: We installed 336 timber and cob trap nests in four complex forests and three simplified orchards within the subtropical biodiversity hotspot of south-east Queensland, Australia. Trap nests were replaced every season for 23 months and all emergents identified. (3) Results: We identified 28 wasp species and 13 bee species from 2251 brood cells. Bee and wasp community composition changed with landscape simplification such that large, ground-nesting, and spider-hunting species were present in all landscapes, while those with specialist resource requirements and (clepto) parasitoids were present only in complex landscapes. Abundance and diversity of bees and wasps were unaffected by landscape simplification but increased with rainfall. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the need for multi-year studies incorporating nuanced measures such as composition with a focus on functional diversity to detect changes bee and wasp populations.
New Mitochondrial Gene Rearrangement in Psyttalia concolor, P. humilis and P. lounsburyi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Three Parasitoid Species of Economic Interest
Authors: Powell Chanté , Caleca Virgilio , Rhode Clint , Teixeira da Costa Luis , van Asch Barbara
Published: December 2020

The family Braconidae consists mostly of specialized parasitoids, some of which hold potential in biocontrol of agricultural pests. Psyttalia concolor, Psyttalia humilis and Psyttalia lounsburyi are parasitoids associated with Bactrocera oleae, a major pest of cultivated olives. The native range of Psyttalia concolor is the Mediterranean, and P. humilis and P. lounsburyi are native to sub-Saharan Africa. This study reports the mitochondrial genomes of the three species, thus laying the foundation for mitogenomic analyses in the genus Psyttalia. Comparative mitogenomics within Braconidae showed a novel gene arrangement in Psyttalia in involving translocation and inversion of transfer RNA genes. The placement of Psyttalia in the subfamily Opiinae was well-supported, and the divergence between Psyttalia and its closest relative (Diachasmimorpha longicaudata) was at ~55 MYA [95% highest posterior density (HPD): 34–83 MYA]. Psyttalia lounsburyi occupied the most basal position among the three Psyttalia, having diverged from the other two species ~11 MYA (95% HPD: 6–17 MYA). Psyttalia concolor and P. humilis were recovered as sister species diverged at ~2 MYA (95% HPD: 1.1–3.6 MYA). This phylogeny combining new sequences and a set of 31 other cyclostomes and non-cyclostomes highlights the importance of a comprehensive taxonomic coverage of Braconidae mitogenomes to overcome the lack of robustness in the placement of several subfamilies.
Magnetic Properties and the Electronic Structure of the Gd0.4Tb0.6Co2 Compound
Authors: Sikora Marcin , Bajorek Anna , Chrobak Artur , Deniszczyk Józef , Ziółkowski Grzegorz , Chełkowska Grażyna
Published: December 2020

We report on the comprehensive experimental and theoretical studies of magnetic and electronic structural properties of the Gd0.4Tb0.6Co2 compound crystallization in the cubic Laves phase (C15). We present new results and compare them to those reported earlier. The magnetic study was completed with electronic structure investigations. Based on magnetic isotherms, magnetic entropy change (ΔSM) was determined for many values of the magnetic field change (Δμ0H), which varied from 0.1 to 7 T. In each case, the ΔSM had a maximum around room temperature. The analysis of Arrott plots supplemented by a study of temperature dependency of Landau coefficients revealed that the compound undergoes a magnetic phase transition of the second type. From the M(T) dependency, the exchange integrals between rare-earth R-R (JRR), R-Co (JRCo), and Co-Co (JCoCo) atoms were evaluated within the mean-field theory approach. The electronic structure was determined using the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) method as well as by calculations using the density functional theory (DFT) based Full Potential Linearized Augmented Plane Waves (FP-LAPW) method. The comparison of results of ab initio calculations with the experimental data indicates that near TC the XPS spectrum collects excitations of electrons from Co3d states with different values of exchange splitting. The values of the magnetic moment on Co atoms determined from magnetic measurements, estimated from the XPS spectra, and results from ab initio calculations are quantitatively consistent.
Improvement of the Durability of Recycled Masonry Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Pavlů Tereza , Fořtová Kristina , Řepka Jakub , Mariaková Diana , Pazderka Jiří
Published: December 2020

The use of recycled masonry aggregate for concrete is mostly limited by the worse properties in comparison with natural aggregate. For these reasons it is necessary to find ways to improve the quality of recycled masonry aggregate concrete and make it more durable. One possibility is utilization of crystalline admixture which was verified in this study by laboratory measurements of key material properties and durability. The positive influence of mineral admixture was proved for freeze-thaw resistance. The positive impact to carbonation resistance was not unambiguous. In conclusion, the laboratory evaluation shows how to improve the durability of recycled masonry aggregate concrete, however, it is necessary to investigate more about this topic.
Titanium Corrosion in Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Soler Mailis D. , Hsu Shu-Min , Fares Chaker , Ren Fan , Jenkins Renita J. , Gonzaga Luiz , Clark Arthur E. , O’Neill Edgar , Neal Dan , Esquivel-Upshaw Josephine F.
Published: December 2020

Titanium (Ti) corrodes clinically in the presence of bacteria. We investigated this phenomenon as a function of Ti particles found in biopsied tissues around peri-implantitis sites and surface roughness of failed Ti implants. Tissue biopsies were surgically collected from peri-implantitis sites, processed, and embedded in resin. The resin-embedded samples were hand trimmed to the region of interest and semi-thick (500 nm) sections were collected onto coverslips. One section was toluidine blue post-stained as a reference. The remainder sections were left unstained for energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Processed samples were examined under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDX. Corresponding failed implants were also removed and examined under SEM and EDX. Five out of eight biopsied samples demonstrated the presence of Ti particles in the soft tissue, suggesting the true rate among all failures was between 24.5% and 91.5% (the lower bound of a 95% confidence interval for the true rate of Ti presence). SEM analysis of failed implant bodies also indicated changes in surface morphology and appeared less detailed with decreased weight percent of Ti on the surface of the failed implants. In conclusion, Ti particles were noted in 5/8 biopsied samples. Surface morphologies were smoother in failed implants compared with the reference implant.
A Unified Approach: Split Quaternions with Quaternion Coefficients and Quaternions with Dual Coefficients
Authors: Karaca Emel , Yılmaz Fatih , Çalışkan Mustafa
Published: December 2020

This paper aims to present, in a unified manner, results which are valid on both split quaternions with quaternion coefficients and quaternions with dual coefficients, simultaneously, calling the attention to the main differences between these two quaternions. Taking into account some results obtained by Karaca, E. et al., 2020, each of these quaternions is studied and some important differences are remarked on.
Solid-State EDLC Device Based on Magnesium Ion-Conducting Biopolymer Composite Membrane Electrolytes: Impedance, Circuit Modeling, Dielectric Properties and Electrochemical Characteristics
Authors: Asnawi Ahmad S. F. M. , Aziz Shujahadeen B. , Saeed Salah R. , Yusof Yuhanees M. , Abdulwahid Rebar T. , Al-Zangana Shakhawan , Karim Wrya O. , Kadir Mohd. F. Z.
Published: December 2020

The polymer electrolyte based on Dx:Cs:Mg(CH3COO)2:Ni with three different glycerol concentrations have been prepared. The impedance study has verified that the electrolyte with 42 wt.% of glycerol (A3) has the highest ionic conductivity of 7.71 × 10−6 S cm−1 at room temperature. The ionic conductivity is found to be influenced by the transport parameters. From the dielectric analysis, it was shown that the electrolytes in this system obeyed the non-Debye behavior. The A3 electrolyte exhibited a dominancy of ions (tion > te) with a breakdown voltage of 2.08 V. The fabricated electrochemical double layer capacitor (EDLC) achieved the specific capacitance values of 24.46 F/g and 39.68 F/g via the cyclic voltammetry (CV) curve and the charge–discharge profile, respectively. The other significant parameters to evaluate the performance of EDLC have been determined, such as internal resistance (186.80 to 202.27 Ω) energy density (4.46 Wh/kg), power density (500.58 to 558.57 W/kg) and efficiency (92.88%).
In Situ Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction Investigations of the Nonlinear Deformation Behavior of a Low Modulus β-Type Ti36Nb5Zr Alloy
Authors: Meng Qingkun , Li Huan , Wang Kai , Guo Shun , Wei Fuxiang , Qi Jiqiu , Sui Yanwei , Shen Baolong , Zhao Xinqing
Published: December 2020

The low modulus β-type Ti alloys usually have peculiar deformation behaviors due to their low phase stability. However, the study of the underlying mechanisms is challenging since some physical mechanisms are fully reversible after the release of the load. In this paper, the deformation behavior of a low modulus β-type Ti36Nb5Zr alloy was investigated with the aid of in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction (SXRD) during tensile loading. The evolution of lattice strains and relative integrated diffraction peak intensities of both the β and α” phases were analyzed to determine the characteristics of the potential deformation mechanisms. Upon loading, the α” diffraction spots appeared at specific azimuth angles of the two-dimensional SXRD patterns due to the <110> fiber texture of original β grains and the selection of favorable martensitic variants. The nonlinear deformation behavior originated from a reversible stress-induced martensitic transformation (SIMT). However, the SIMT contributed a little to the large recoverable strain of over 2.0%, which was dominated by the elastic deformation of the β phase. Various deformation mechanisms were activated successively at different applied strains, including elastic deformation, SIMT and plastic deformation. Our investigations provide in-depth understandings of the deformation mechanisms in β-type Ti alloys with low elastic modulus.
Influence of Copper Addition in AlSi7MgCu Alloy on Microstructure Development and Tensile Strength Improvement
Authors: Stanić Davor , Zovko Brodarac Zdenka , Li Letian
Published: December 2020

Commercial AlSi7Mg alloy represents the usual choice for complex geometry casting production. The market imperative to improve mechanical properties imposed the design of new chemical composition of AlSi7MgCu alloy with high content of Cu (up to 1.435 wt.%). This represents a challenge in order to achieve advanced properties. The interaction of a number of alloying (Si, Mg, Cu) and trace elements (Fe, Mn) influenced a wide range of complex reactions occurring and therefore leading to intermetallic phase precipitation. The characterization of novel chemical composition interaction and its solidification sequence was achieved by modelling an equilibrium phase diagram, simultaneously performing both thermal analysis and metallographic investigations. Copper influence was indicated in the whole solidification process starting with infiltration in modified Chinese script phase Al15(Fe,Mn,Cu)3Si2, beside common intermetallic Al5FeSi. Copper addition encourages formation of compact complex intermetallic phases Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 and Al8(Fe,Mn,Cu)Mg3Si6. Solidification ended with secondary eutectic αAl + Al2Cu + βSi. Microstructure investigation allows volume reconstruction of the microstructure and distribution of particular phases. Chemical compositions enriched in copper content and developed microstructural constituent through solidification sequence of AlSi7MgCu alloy contribute to a significant increase in mechanical properties already in an as-cast state.
Fluorinated Polyethylene Propylene Ferroelectrets with an Air-Filled Concentric Tunnel Structure: Preparation, Characterization, and Application in Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zuo Xi , Chen Li , Pan Wenjun , Ma Xingchen , Yang Tongqing , Zhang Xiaoqing
Published: December 2020

Fluorinated polyethylene propylene (FEP) bipolar ferroelectret films with a specifically designed concentric tunnel structure were prepared by means of rigid-template based thermoplastic molding and contact polarization. The properties of the fabricated films, including the piezoelectric response, mechanical property, and thermal stability, were characterized, and two kinds of energy harvesters based on such ferroelectret films, working in 33- and 31-modes respectively, were investigated. The results show that the FEP films exhibit significant longitudinal and radial piezoelectric activities, as well as superior thermal stability. A quasi-static piezoelectric d33 coefficient of up to 5300 pC/N was achieved for the FEP films, and a radial piezoelectric sensitivity of 40,000 pC/N was obtained in a circular film sample with a diameter of 30 mm. Such films were thermally stable at 120 °C after a reduction of 35%. Two types of vibrational energy harvesters working in 33-mode and 31-mode were subsequently designed. The results show that a power output of up to 1 mW was achieved in an energy harvester working in 33-mode at a resonance frequency of 210 Hz, referring to a seismic mass of 33.4 g and an acceleration of 1 g (g is the gravity of the earth). For a device working in 31-mode, a power output of 15 μW was obtained at a relatively low resonance frequency of 26 Hz and a light seismic mass of 1.9 g. Therefore, such concentric tunnel FEP ferroelectric films provide flexible options for designing vibrational energy harvesters working either in 33-mode or 31-mode to adapt to application environments.
Opioids and Their Receptors: Present and Emerging Concepts in Opioid Drug Discovery
Authors: Spetea Mariana , Schmidhammer Helmut
Published: December 2020

The interest in opioids such as morphine, the prototypical opioid ligand, has been maintained throughout the years [...]
Selective Synthesis of Benzimidazoles from o-Phenylenediamine and Aldehydes Promoted by Supported Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Tzani Marina A. , Gabriel Catherine , Lykakis Ioannis N.
Published: December 2020

We investigated the catalytic efficacy of supported gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) towards the selective reaction between o-phenylenediamine and aldehydes that yields 2-substituted benzimidazoles. Among several supported gold nanoparticle platforms, the Au/TiO2 provides a series of 2-aryl and 2-alkyl substituted benzimidazoles at ambient conditions, in the absence of additives and in high yields, using the mixture CHCl3:MeOH in ratio 3:1 as the reaction solvent. Among the AuNPs catalysts used herein, the Au/TiO2 containing small-size nanoparticles is found to be the most active towards the present catalytic methodology. The Au/TiO2 can be recovered and reused at least five times without a significant loss of its catalytic efficacy. The present catalytic synthetic protocol applies to a broad substrate scope and represents an efficient method for the formation of a C–N bond under mild reaction conditions. Notably, this catalytic methodology provides the regio-isomer of the anthelmintic drug, Thiabendazole, in a lab-scale showing its applicability in the efficient synthesis of such N-heterocyclic molecules at industrial levels.
Essential Amino Acids and Protein Synthesis: Insights into Maximizing the Muscle and Whole-Body Response to Feeding
Authors: Church David D. , Hirsch Katie R. , Park Sanghee , Kim Il-Young , Gwin Jess A. , Pasiakos Stefan M. , Wolfe Robert R. , Ferrando Arny A.
Published: December 2020

Ingesting protein-containing supplements and foods provides essential amino acids (EAA) necessary to increase muscle and whole-body protein synthesis (WBPS). Large variations exist in the EAA composition of supplements and foods, ranging from free-form amino acids to whole protein foods. We sought to investigate how changes in peripheral EAA after ingesting various protein and free amino acid formats altered muscle and whole-body protein synthesis. Data were compiled from four previous studies that used primed, constant infusions of L-(ring-2H5)-phenylalanine and L-(3,3-2H2)-tyrosine to determine fractional synthetic rate of muscle protein (FSR), WBPS, and circulating EAA concentrations. Stepwise regression indicated that max EAA concentration (EAACmax; R2 = 0.524, p < 0.001), EAACmax (R2 = 0.341, p < 0.001), and change in EAA concentration (ΔEAA; R = 0.345, p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors for postprandial FSR, Δ (change from post absorptive to postprandial) FSR, and ΔWBPS, respectively. Within our dataset, the stepwise regression equation indicated that a 100% increase in peripheral EAA concentrations increases FSR by ~34%. Further, we observed significant (p < 0.05) positive (R = 0.420–0.724) correlations between the plasma EAA area under the curve above baseline, EAACmax, ΔEAA, and rate to EAACmax to postprandial FSR, ΔFSR, and ΔWBPS. Taken together our results indicate that across a large variety of EAA/protein-containing formats and food, large increases in peripheral EAA concentrations are required to drive a robust increase in muscle and whole-body protein synthesis.
Role of Gut Microbiota on Onset and Progression of Microvascular Complications of Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM)
Authors: Tanase Daniela Maria , Gosav Evelina Maria , Neculae Ecaterina , Costea Claudia Florida , Ciocoiu Manuela , Hurjui Loredana Liliana , Tarniceriu Claudia Cristina , Maranduca Minela Aida , Lacatusu Cristina Mihaela , Floria Mariana , Serban Ionela Lacramioara
Published: December 2020

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains one of the most problematic and economic consumer disorders worldwide, with growing prevalence and incidence. Over the last years, substantial research has highlighted the intricate relationship among gut microbiota, dysbiosis and metabolic syndromes development. Changes in the gut microbiome composition lead to an imbalanced gastrointestinal habitat which promotes abnormal production of metabolites, inflammatory status, glucose metabolism alteration and even insulin resistance (IR). Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), lipopolysaccharide, aromatic amino acids and their affiliated metabolites, contribute to T2DM via different metabolic and immunologic pathways. In this narrative review, we discuss the immunopathogenic mechanism behind gut dysbiosis, T2DM development and the major known diabetic microvascular complications (retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy), the beneficial use of pre- and pro-biotics and fecal microbiota transplantation in T2DM management and new findings and future perspectives in this field.