bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multiobjective Model for Analysis of the Relationships between Military Expenditures, Security, and Human Development in NATO Countries
Authors: Vallejo-Rosero Patricio , García-Centeno M. Carmen , Delgado-Antequera Laura , Fosado Osvaldo , Caballero Rafael
Published: December 2020

The aim of this work is to design a multiobjective model to explain the behavior among military expenditures (MEs), the human development index, and the global peace index in countries belonging to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for the study period 2008–2016. In order to solve this problem, different decision variables have been considered: health expenditure, education expenditure, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), collected taxes, public debt, and R&D costs, which are related to health, education, and economic sectors. To determine the relationships among decision variables making up the objective functions and model constraints, different panel data models were estimated. The obtained results show that the major part of the NATO countries present a behavior which differs from what is efficient. In this context, this work highlights the path to follow by each country, such as the implementation of public budget policies in the health and education sectors, and for collected taxes and public debt, to achieve efficient solutions.
Finite Element Study for Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Tangent Hyperbolic Nanofluid Flow over a Faster/Slower Stretching Wedge with Activation Energy
Authors: Ali Bagh , Naqvi Rizwan Ali , Mariam Amna , Ali Liaqat , Aldossary Omar M.
Published: December 2020

The below work comprises the unsteady flow and enhanced thermal transportation for Carreau nanofluids across a stretching wedge. In addition, heat source, magnetic field, thermal radiation, activation energy, and convective boundary conditions are considered. Suitable similarity functions use to transmuted partial differential formulation into the ordinary differential form, which is solved numerically by the finite element method and coded in Matlab script. Parametric computations are made for faster stretch and slowly stretch to the surface of the wedge. The progressing value of parameter A (unsteadiness), material law index ϵ, and wedge angle reduce the flow velocity. The temperature in the boundary layer region rises directly with exceeding values of thermophoresis parameter Nt, Hartman number, Brownian motion parameter Nb, ϵ, Biot number Bi and radiation parameter Rd. The volume fraction of nanoparticles rises with activation energy parameter EE, but it receded against chemical reaction parameter Ω, and Lewis number Le. The reliability and validity of the current numerical solution are ascertained by establishing convergence criteria and agreement with existing specific solutions.
Hybrid Nanofluid Slip Flow over an Exponentially Stretching/Shrinking Permeable Sheet with Heat Generation
Authors: Wahid Nur Syahirah , Arifin Norihan Md , Khashi’ie Najiyah Safwa , Pop Ioan
Published: December 2020

An investigation has been done on the hybrid nanofluid slip flow in the existence of heat generation over an exponentially stretching/shrinking permeable sheet. Hybridization of alumina and copper with water as the base fluid is considered. The mathematical model is simplified through the similarity transformation. A numerical solver named bvp4c in Matlab software is utilized to facilitate the problem-solving process and dual solutions are attained. The influences of several pertinent parameters on the main physical quantities of interest and the profiles are scrutinized and presented in the form of graphs. Through the stability analysis, only the first solution is considered as the physical solution. As such, the findings conclude that the upsurges of volume fraction on the copper nanoparticle could enhance the skin friction coefficient and the local Nusselt number.
Transversal Jacobi Operators in Almost Contact Manifolds
Authors: Cho Jong Taek , Kimura Makoto
Published: December 2020

Along a transversal geodesic γ whose tangent belongs to the contact distribution D, we define the transversal Jacobi operator Rγ=R(·,γ˙)γ˙ on an almost contact Riemannian manifold M. Then, using the transversal Jacobi operator Rγ, we give a new characterization of the Sasakian sphere. In the second part, we characterize the complete ruled real hypersurfaces in complex hyperbolic space.
Effect of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on Corrosion Properties of Various High-Speed Steels
Authors: Voglar Jure , Novak Živa , Jovičević-Klug Patricia , Podgornik Bojan , Kosec Tadeja
Published: December 2020

The aim of the study was to evaluate the corrosion properties of three different grades of high-speed steel following a heat treatment procedure involving deep cryogenic treatment after quenching and to investigate how these properties are connected to the microstructure and hardness of the material. The hardness of steels was measured, and microstructural properties were determined through observation of the metallographically prepared steels using scanning electron microscopy. These studies were complemented corrosion evaluation by the use of corrosion potential measurement and linear polarization measurement of steels in a sodium tetraborate buffer at pH 10. The results showed that the deep cryogenic procedure of high-speed steel changed the microstructure and consequently affected the hardness of the investigated steels to different extents, depending on their chemical composition. Corrosion studies have confirmed that some high-speed steels have improved corrosion properties after deep cryogenic treatment. The most important improvement in corrosion resistance was observed for deep cryogenically treated high-speed steel EN 1.3395 (M3:2) by 31% when hardened to high hardness values and by 116% under lower hardness conditions. The test procedure for differentiating corrosion properties of differently heat-treated tool steels was established alongside the investigation.
Discovery of New Ti-Based Alloys Aimed at Avoiding/Minimizing Formation of α” and ω-Phase Using CALPHAD and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Jha Rajesh , Dulikravich George S.
Published: December 2020

In this work, we studied a Ti-Nb-Zr-Sn system for exploring novel composition and temperatures that will be helpful in maximizing the stability of β phase while minimizing the formation of α” and ω-phase. The Ti-Nb-Zr-Sn system is free of toxic elements. This system was studied under the framework of CALculation of PHAse Diagram (CALPHAD) approach for determining the stability of various phases. These data were analyzed through artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. Deep learning artificial neural network (DLANN) models were developed for various phases as a function of alloy composition and temperature. Software was written in Python programming language and DLANN models were developed utilizing TensorFlow/Keras libraries. DLANN models were used to predict various phases for new compositions and temperatures and provided a more complete dataset. This dataset was further analyzed through the concept of self-organizing maps (SOM) for determining correlations between phase stability of various phases, chemical composition, and temperature. Through this study, we determined candidate alloy compositions and temperatures that will be helpful in avoiding/minimizing formation of α” and ω-phase in a Ti-Zr-Nb-Sn system. This approach can be utilized in other systems such as ω-free shape memory alloys. DLANN models can even be used on a common Android mobile phone.
Continuous Glucose and Heart Rate Monitoring in Young People with Type 1 Diabetes: An Exploratory Study about Perspectives in Nocturnal Hypoglycemia Detection
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Bosoni Pietro , Sacchi Lucia , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Mannarino Savina , Bellazzi Riccardo , Larizza Cristiana
Published: December 2020

A combination of information from blood glucose (BG) and heart rate (HR) measurements has been proposed to investigate the HR changes related to nocturnal hypoglycemia (NH) episodes in pediatric subjects with type 1 diabetes (T1D), examining whether they could improve hypoglycemia prediction. We enrolled seventeen children and adolescents with T1D, monitored on average for 194 days. BG was detected by flash glucose monitoring devices, and HR was measured by wrist-worn fitness trackers. For each subject, we compared HR values recorded in the hour before NH episodes (before-hypoglycemia) with HR values recorded during sleep intervals without hypoglycemia (no-hypoglycemia). Furthermore, we investigated the behavior after the end of NH. Nine participants (53%) experienced at least three NH. Among these nine subjects, six (67%) showed a statistically significant difference between the before-hypoglycemia HR distribution and the no-hypoglycemia HR distribution. In all these six cases, the before-hypoglycemia HR median value was higher than the no-hypoglycemia HR median value. In almost all cases, HR values after the end of hypoglycemia remained higher compared to no-hypoglycemia sleep intervals. This exploratory study support that HR modifications occur during NH in T1D subjects. The identification of specific HR patterns can be helpful to improve NH detection and prevent fatal events.
Role of Commensal Microbes in the γ-Ray Irradiation-Induced Physiological Changes in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lee Hwa-Jin , Lee Shin-Hae , Lee Ji-Hyeon , Kim Yongjoong , Seong Ki Moon , Jin Young Woo , Min Kyung-Jin
Published: December 2020

Ionizing radiation induces biological/physiological changes and affects commensal microbes, but few studies have examined the relationship between the physiological changes induced by irradiation and commensal microbes. This study investigated the role of commensal microbes in the γ-ray irradiation-induced physiological changes in Drosophila melanogaster. The bacterial load was increased in 5 Gy irradiated flies, but irradiation decreased the number of operational taxonomic units. The mean lifespan of conventional flies showed no significant change by irradiation, whereas that of axenic flies was negatively correlated with the radiation dose. γ-Ray irradiation did not change the average number of eggs in both conventional and axenic flies. Locomotion of conventional flies was decreased after 5 Gy radiation exposure, whereas no significant change in locomotion activity was detected in axenic flies after irradiation. γ-Ray irradiation increased the generation of reactive oxygen species in both conventional and axenic flies, but the increase was higher in axenic flies. Similarly, the amounts of mitochondria were increased in irradiated axenic flies but not in conventional flies. These results suggest that axenic flies are more sensitive in their mitochondrial responses to radiation than conventional flies, and increased sensitivity leads to a reduced lifespan and other physiological changes in axenic flies.
Inactivation of Schistosoma Using Low-Temperature Plasma
Authors: Hejzlarová Silvie , Chanová Marta , Khun Josef , Julák Jaroslav , Scholtz Vladimír
Published: December 2020

The inactivation of Schistosoma mansoni cercariae and miracidia was achieved by exposure to plasma produced by the positive, negative, and axial negative corona discharges. The positive discharge appeared as the most effective, causing the death of cercariae and miracidia within 2–3 min of exposure. The negative discharge was less effective, and the axial discharge was ineffective. The water pre-activated (PAW) by the discharges showed similar efficiency, with the exception of the significantly effective PAW activated with axial discharge. These facts, together with the observation of various reactions among plasma-damaged schistosomes, suggest that the mechanisms of inactivation by different types of discharges are different.
Surface Layer Protein A Expressed in Clostridioides difficile DJNS06-36 Possesses an Encephalitogenic Mimotope of Myelin Basic Protein
Authors: Mindur John E. , Yadav Sudhir K. , Ito Naoko , Senoh Mitsutoshi , Kato Haru , Dhib-Jalbut Suhayl , Ito Kouichi
Published: December 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies suggest that migration of Th1 and Th17 cells specific for enteric bacteria from the gut to the CNS may lead to the initiation and/or exacerbation of autoimmune diseases including MS. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR15 is an MHC class II (MHCII) haplotype highly associated with the development of MS that contains the two HLA-DRB* genes, DRB1*1501 (DR2b) and DRB5*0101 (DR2a). To identify enteric bacteria which harbor antigenic epitopes that activate myelin-specific T cells and drive CNS inflammation, we screened for enteric bacteria which express cross-reactive epitopes (‘mimotopes’) of an immunodominant myelin basic protein 89–98 (MBP89-98) epitope. Based on known MHCII HLA-DR2a amino acid binding motifs and cultivation with splenic T cells isolated from MBP-T cell receptor (TCR)/DR2a transgenic (Tg) mice, we discovered that a certain variant of surface layer protein A (SLPA), which is expressed by a subtype of Clostridioides difficile, contains an amino acid sequence that activates MBP89-98-reactive T cells. Furthermore, activation of MBP-specific T cells by SLPA upon active immunization induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in MBP-TCR/DR2a Tg mice. This study suggests that a unique strain of C. difficile possesses an encephalitogenic mimotope of MBP that activates autoreactive, myelin-specific T cells.
Accumulation of Elements in Biodeposits on the Stone Surface in Urban Environment. Case Studies from Saint Petersburg, Russia
Authors: Sazanova (nee Barinova) Katerina V. , Zelenskaya Marina S. , Manurtdinova Vera V. , Izatulina Alina R. , Rusakov Aleksei V. , Vlasov Dmitry Yu. , Frank-Kamenetskaya Olga V.
Published: December 2020

The pattern of elements accumulation in biodeposits formed by living organisms and extracellular products of their metabolism (biofouling, primary soils) on different bedrocks (of the monuments of Historical necropoleis in Saint Petersburg) were studied by a complex of biological and mineralogical methods (optical microscopy, SEM, EDX, XRD, ICP MS, XRFS). The content of 46 elements in biodeposits with various communities of microorganisms is determined. The model recreating the picture of the input and selective accumulation of elements in biodeposits on the stone surface in outdoor conditions is assumed. It is shown that the main contribution to the elemental composition of biodeposits is made by the environment and the composition of the microbial community. The contribution of leaching under the action of microbial metabolites of mineral grains, entering biodeposits from the environment, is significantly greater than that of the underlying rock.
Electrospun Nanofibers of Natural and Synthetic Polymers as Artificial Extracellular Matrix for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Keshvardoostchokami Mina , Majidi Sara Seidelin , Huo Peipei , Ramachandran Rajan , Chen Menglin , Liu Bo
Published: December 2020

Many types of polymer nanofibers have been introduced as artificial extracellular matrices. Their controllable properties, such as wettability, surface charge, transparency, elasticity, porosity and surface to volume proportion, have attracted much attention. Moreover, functionalizing polymers with other bioactive components could enable the engineering of microenvironments to host cells for regenerative medical applications. In the current brief review, we focus on the most recently cited electrospun nanofibrous polymeric scaffolds and divide them into five main categories: natural polymer-natural polymer composite, natural polymer-synthetic polymer composite, synthetic polymer-synthetic polymer composite, crosslinked polymers and reinforced polymers with inorganic materials. Then, we focus on their physiochemical, biological and mechanical features and discussed the capability and efficiency of the nanofibrous scaffolds to function as the extracellular matrix to support cellular function.
Bone Regeneration Capacity of Newly Developed Uncalcined/Unsintered Hydroxyapatite and Poly-l-lactide-co-glycolide Sheet in Maxillofacial Surgery: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Ngo Huy Xuan , Dong Quang Ngoc , Bai Yunpeng , Sha Jingjing , Ishizuka Shinji , Okui Tatsuo , Sukegawa Shintaro , Kanno Takahiro
Published: December 2020

Uncalcined/unsintered hydroxyapatite and poly-l-lactide-co-glycolide (u-HA/PLLA/PGA) is a new bioresorbable nanomaterial with superior characteristics compared with current bioresorbable materials, including appropriate mechanical properties, outstanding bioactive/osteoconductive features, and remarkably shorter resorption time. Nevertheless, the bone regeneration characteristics of this nanomaterial have not been evaluated in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery. In this study, we used a rat mandible model to assess the bone regeneration ability of u-HA/PLLA/PGA material, compared with uncalcined/unsintered hydroxyapatite and poly-l-lactide acid (u-HA/PLLA) material, which has demonstrated excellent bone regenerative ability. A 4-mm-diameter defect was created at the mandibular angle area in 28 Sprague Dawley male rats. The rats were divided into three groups: u-HA/PLLA/PGA (u-HA/PLLA/PGA graft + defect), u-HA/PLLA (u-HA/PLLA graft + defect), and sham control (defect alone). At 1, 3, 8, and 16 weeks after surgeries, the rats were sacrificed and assessed by micro-computed tomography, histological analysis with hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemical analyses. The results confirmed that the accelerated bone bioactive/regenerative osteoconduction of u-HA/PLLA/PGA was comparable with that of u-HA/PLLA in the rat mandible model. Furthermore, this new regenerative nanomaterial was able to more rapidly induce bone formation in the early stage and had great potential for further clinical applications in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery.
Composite Nanostructure of Manganese Cluster and CHA-Type Silicoaluminaphosphates: Enhanced Catalytic Performance in Dimethylether to Light Olefins Conversion
Authors: Ping Guichen , Zheng Kai , Fang Qihua , Li Gao
Published: December 2020

Light olefins, especially ethylene and propylene, are important chemicals in petrochemical industries with an increasing demand and play an essential role in the global consumption. In this regard, there have been extensive studies to design efficient catalysts for the light olefins productions. In this study, we report a new protocol to induce Mn nanoclusters (MnNC) into the mesopore of a CHA-type silicoaluminaphosphates via a one-pot synthesis of MnNC@SAPO-34 catalysts. The catalysts are characterized by a series of technology, such as TEM, XRD, NH3-TPD, 27Al MAS NMR, ICP-MS, XPS, and as well as N2-physical adsorption methods. The Mn nanoclusters of Mn2O3 and MnO2 species are well dispersed in the framework of the SAPO-34 silicoaluminaphosphates, modifying the porosity and acidic property of the SAPO-34: Giving rise to more mesoporous and improving the acid density. The MnNC@SAPO-34 catalysts exhibit decent 100% conversion and 92.2% olefins selectivity in the dimethyl ether to olefins (DTO) reactions, which is considerably higher than that for SAPO-34 silicoaluminaphosphates (79.6% olefins selectivity). The higher olefins selectivity over the MnNC@SAPO-34 is deemed to associate with the strong acid density and intensity of the silicoaluminaphosphates. Further, the Mn particles largely improve silicoaluminaphosphates’s durability.
A New Long-Term Composite Drug Delivery System Based on Thermo-Responsive Hydrogel and Nanoclay
Authors: Tipa Cezar , Cidade Maria T. , Vieira Tânia , Silva Jorge Carvalho , Soares Paula I. P. , Borges João Paulo
Published: December 2020

Several problems and limitations faced in the treatment of many diseases can be overcome by using controlled drug delivery systems (DDS), where the active compound is transported to the target site, minimizing undesirable side effects. In situ-forming hydrogels that can be injected as viscous liquids and jellify under physiological conditions and biocompatible clay nanoparticles have been used in DDS development. In this work, polymer–clay composites based on Pluronics (F127 and F68) and nanoclays were developed, aiming at a biocompatible and injectable system for long-term controlled delivery of methylene blue (MB) as a model drug. MB release from the systems produced was carried out at 37 °C in a pH 7.4 medium. The Pluronic formulation selected (F127/F68 18/2 wt.%) displayed a sol/gel transition at approx. 30 °C, needing a 2.5 N force to be injected at 25 °C. The addition of 2 wt.% of Na116 clay decreased the sol/gel transition to 28 °C and significantly enhanced its viscoelastic modulus. The most suitable DDS for long-term application was the Na116-MB hybrid from which, after 15 days, only 3% of the encapsulated MB was released. The system developed in this work proved to be injectable, with a long-term drug delivery profile up to 45 days.
Assessing Diet Quality of Indigenous Food Systems in Three Geographically Distinct Solomon Islands Sites (Melanesia, Pacific Islands)
Authors: Vogliano Chris , Raneri Jessica E. , Maelaua Josephine , Coad Jane , Wham Carol , Burlingame Barbara
Published: December 2020

Indigenous Solomon Islanders, like many living in Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS), are currently experiencing the global syndemic—the combined threat of obesity, undernutrition, and climate change. This mixed-method study aimed to assess nutrition transitions and diet quality by comparing three geographically unique rural and urban indigenous Solomon Islands populations. Participants in rural areas sourced more energy from wild and cultivated foods; consumed a wider diversity of foods; were more likely to meet WHO recommendations of >400 g of non-starchy fruits and vegetables daily; were more physically active; and had significantly lower body fat, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI) when compared to urban populations. Urban populations were found to have a reduced ability to self-cultivate agri-food products or collect wild foods, and therefore consumed more ultra-processed foods (classified as NOVA 4) and takeout foods, and overall had less diverse diets compared to rural populations. Clear opportunities to leverage traditional knowledge and improve the cultivation and consumption of underutilized species can assist in building more sustainable and resilient food systems while ensuring that indigenous knowledge and cultural preferences are respected.
The Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis and Alzheimer’s Disease: Neuroinflammation Is to Blame?
Authors: Megur Ashwinipriyadarshini , Baltriukienė Daiva , Bukelskienė Virginija , Burokas Aurelijus
Published: December 2020

For years, it has been reported that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. Various external and internal factors may contribute to the early onset of AD. This review highlights a contribution of the disturbances in the microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis to the development of AD. Alteration in the gut microbiota composition is determined by increase in the permeability of the gut barrier and immune cell activation, leading to impairment in the blood–brain barrier function that promotes neuroinflammation, neuronal loss, neural injury, and ultimately AD. Numerous studies have shown that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in brain function and changes in the behavior of individuals and the formation of bacterial amyloids. Lipopolysaccharides and bacterial amyloids synthesized by the gut microbiota can trigger the immune cells residing in the brain and can activate the immune response leading to neuroinflammation. Growing experimental and clinical data indicate the prominent role of gut dysbiosis and microbiota–host interactions in AD. Modulation of the gut microbiota with antibiotics or probiotic supplementation may create new preventive and therapeutic options in AD. Accumulating evidences affirm that research on MGB involvement in AD is necessary for new treatment targets and therapies for AD.
Regular Use of VKA Prior to COVID-19 Associated with Lower 7-Day Survival in Hospitalized Frail Elderly COVID-19 Patients: The GERIA-COVID Cohort Study
Authors: Ménager Pierre , Brière Olivier , Gautier Jennifer , Riou Jérémie , Sacco Guillaume , Brangier Antoine , Annweiler Cédric ,   on behalf of the GERIA-COVID study group
Published: December 2020

Background. Vitamin K concentrations are inversely associated with the clinical severity of COVID-19. The objective of this cohort study was to determine whether the regular use of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) prior to COVID-19 was associated with short-term mortality in frail older adults hospitalized for COVID-19. Methods. Eighty-two patients consecutively hospitalized for COVID-19 in a geriatric acute care unit were included. The association of the regular use of VKA prior to COVID-19 with survival after 7 days of COVID-19 was examined using a propensity-score-weighted Cox proportional-hazards model accounting for age, sex, severe undernutrition, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, prior myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, prior stroke and/or transient ischemic attack, CHA2DS2-VASc score, HAS-BLED score, and eGFR. Results. Among 82 patients (mean ± SD age 88.8 ± 4.5 years; 48% women), 73 survived COVID-19 at day 7 while 9 died. There was no between-group difference at baseline, despite a trend for more frequent use of VKA in those who did not survive on day 7 (33.3% versus 8.2%, p = 0.056). While considering “using no VKA” as the reference (hazard ratio (HR) = 1), the HR for 7-day mortality in those regularly using VKA was 5.68 [95% CI: 1.17; 27.53]. Consistently, COVID-19 patients using VKA on a regular basis had shorter survival times than the others (p = 0.031). Conclusions. Regular use of VKA was associated with increased mortality at day 7 in hospitalized frail elderly patients with COVID-19.
Association between Dietary Patterns and Kidney Function Parameters in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Syauqy Ahmad , Hsu Chien-Yeh , Lee Hsiu-An , Rau Hsiao-Hsien , Chao Jane C.-J.
Published: December 2020

This study explored the association between dietary patterns and kidney function parameters in adults with metabolic syndrome in Taiwan. This cross-sectional study was undertaken in 56,476 adults from the health screening centers in Taiwan from 2001 to 2010. Dietary intake and dietary patterns were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire and principal component analysis, respectively. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and uric acid were measured as clinical parameters of kidney function. Multivariate linear regression was conducted to explore the relationship between dietary patterns and kidney function parameters. After adjusting for confounders, the highest tertiles of the processed food–sweets dietary pattern and the meat–seafood–eggs dietary pattern were associated with increased BUN, creatinine, and uric acid but decreased eGFR (all adjusted p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the highest tertiles of the veggie–fruit–grains dietary pattern and the milk–dairy dietary pattern were associated with decreased BUN, creatinine, and uric acid but increased eGFR (all adjusted p < 0.05). A processed food–sweets dietary pattern or a meat–seafood–eggs dietary pattern is associated with worse kidney function parameters in adults with metabolic syndrome. In contrast, a veggie–fruit–grains dietary pattern or a milk–dairy dietary pattern is associated with better kidney function parameters.
Development of Processes for Recombinant L-Asparaginase II Production by Escherichia coli Bl21 (De3): From Shaker to Bioreactors
Authors: Barros Thaís , Brumano Larissa , Freitas Marcela , Pessoa Adalberto , Parachin Nádia , Magalhães Pérola O.
Published: December 2020

Since 1961, L-asparaginase has been used to treat patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia. It rapidly depletes the plasma asparagine and deprives the blood cells of this circulating amino acid, essential for the metabolic cycles of cells. In the search for viable alternatives to produce L-asparaginase, this work aimed to produce this enzyme from Escherichia coli in a shaker and in a 3 L bioreactor. Three culture media were tested: defined, semi-defined and complex medium. L-asparaginase activity was quantified using the β-hydroxamate aspartic acid method. The defined medium provided the highest L-asparaginase activity. In induction studies, two inducers, lactose and its analog IPTG, were compared. Lactose was chosen as an inducer for the experiments conducted in the bioreactor due to its natural source, lower cost and lower toxicity. Batch and fed-batch cultures were carried out to reach high cell density and then start the induction. Batch cultivation provided a final cell concentration of 11 g L−1 and fed-batch cultivation produced 69.90 g L−1 of cells, which produced a volumetric activity of 43,954.79 U L−1 after lactose induction. L-asparaginase was produced in a shaker and scaled up to a bioreactor, increasing 23-fold the cell concentration and thus, the enzyme productivity.
Focused Ultrasound and Microbubbles-Mediated Drug Delivery to Brain Tumor
Authors: Wu Sheng-Kai , Tsai Chia-Lin , Huang Yuexi , Hynynen Kullervo
Published: December 2020

The presence of blood–brain barrier (BBB) and/or blood–brain–tumor barriers (BBTB) is one of the main obstacles to effectively deliver therapeutics to our central nervous system (CNS); hence, the outcomes following treatment of malignant brain tumors remain unsatisfactory. Although some approaches regarding BBB disruption or drug modifications have been explored, none of them reach the criteria of success. Convention-enhanced delivery (CED) directly infuses drugs to the brain tumor and surrounding tumor infiltrating area over a long period of time using special catheters. Focused ultrasound (FUS) now provides a non-invasive method to achieve this goal via combining with systemically circulating microbubbles to locally enhance the vascular permeability. In this review, different approaches of delivering therapeutic agents to the brain tumors will be discussed as well as the characterization of BBB and BBTB. We also highlight the mechanism of FUS-induced BBB modulation and the current progress of this technology in both pre-clinical and clinical studies.
Medication Safety in Intravenous Therapy: A Compatibility Study of Clonidine with Drugs Frequently Used in Intensive Care
Authors: Koller Anna Katharina , Krebs Sabine , Dörje Frank
Published: December 2020

The intravenous pharmacotherapy of critically ill patients is extremely challenging due to the high number of drugs administered. We therefore evaluated the physicochemical compatibility of combinations of clonidine with drugs frequently used in an intensive care unit setting. Amiodarone, dihydralazine, furosemide, levosimendan, metamizole, milrinone, urapidil, and verapamil were each prepared as binary combinations with clonidine at the standard low and high administration concentrations. Selected ternary combinations were also analyzed. Samples were examined for physical compatibility. To verify chemical compatibility in samples deemed either physically compatible or to exhibit uncertain results, the drug content was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. Admixtures of clonidine with amiodarone or furosemide proved to be physically incompatible, whereas mixtures with levosimendan and metamizole exhibited results, which were not clearly meeting the specification criteria for physical compatibility. Binary combinations of clonidine with dihydralazine, milrinone, urapidil, and verapamil were found to be physically compatible. Combinations with dihydralazine, levosimendan, metamizole, milrinon, urapidil, or verapamil were chemically compatible for the analyzed concentrations. Ternary admixtures of clonidine, metamizole, and urapidil; clonidine, metamizole, and verapamil; clonidine, urapidil, and verapamil were shown to be physicochemically compatible for the analyzed concentrations. These data suggest that clonidine can be coadministered with dihydralazine, levosimendan, metamizole, milrinone, urapidil, and verapamil. However, the concomitant administration of clonidine with amiodarone or furosemide is not recommended.
Temporal Variation in Community Composition of Root Associated Endophytic Fungi and Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotope Abundance in Two Bletilla Species (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Zeng Xinhua , Diao Haixin , Ni Ziyi , Shao Li , Jiang Kai , Hu Chao , Huang Qingjun , Huang Weichang
Published: December 2020

Mycorrhizae are an important energy source for orchids that may replace or supplement photosynthesis. Most mature orchids rely on mycorrhizae throughout their life cycles. However, little is known about temporal variation in root endophytic fungal diversity and their trophic functions throughout whole growth periods of the orchids. In this study, the community composition of root endophytic fungi and trophic relationships between root endophytic fungi and orchids were investigated in Bletilla striata and B. ochracea at different phenological stages using stable isotope natural abundance analysis combined with molecular identification analysis. We identified 467 OTUs assigned to root-associated fungal endophytes, which belonged to 25 orders in 10 phyla. Most of these OTUs were assigned to saprotroph (143 OTUs), pathotroph-saprotroph (63 OTUs) and pathotroph-saprotroph-symbiotroph (18 OTUs) using FunGuild database. Among these OTUs, about 54 OTUs could be considered as putative species of orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF). For both Bletilla species, significant temporal variation was observed in the diversity of root endophytic fungi. The florescence and emergence periods had higher fungal community richness of total species and endemic species than did other periods. Both Bletilla species were dominated by Agaricomycetes and Basidiomycota fungi throughout the whole year; however, their abundances varied between two Bletilla species and among phenological stages. Meanwhile, the ranges of 13C and 15N natural abundance were also highly dynamic across all growth stages of Bletilla species. Compared with the surrounding autotrophic plants, significant 13C enrichments (ε13C) were found across all phenological stages, while significant 15N enrichment in the florescence period and strong 15N depletion during the fruiting period were found for both Bletilla species. We can deduce that both Bletilla species obtained carbon from root endophytic fungi during the whole year. Additionally, the temporal varying tendency of root endophytic fungal diversity was consistent with 13C enrichments, which was also accord with the nutritional requirement of plant.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Histone Deacetylase Gene Family in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Jin Peng , Gao Shiqi , He Long , Xu Miaoze , Zhang Tianye , Zhang Fan , Jiang Yaoyao , Liu Tingting , Yang Jin , Yang Jian , Dai Liangying , Chen Jianping
Published: December 2020

Histone acetylation is a dynamic modification process co-regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). Although HDACs play vital roles in abiotic or biotic stress responses, their members in Triticumaestivum and their response to plant viruses remain unknown. Here, we identified and characterized 49 T. aestivumHDACs (TaHDACs) at the whole-genome level. Based on phylogenetic analyses, TaHDACs could be divided into 5 clades, and their protein spatial structure was integral and conserved. Chromosomal location and synteny analyses showed that TaHDACs were widely distributed on wheat chromosomes, and gene duplication has accelerated the TaHDAC gene family evolution. The cis-acting element analysis indicated that TaHDACs were involved in hormone response, light response, abiotic stress, growth, and development. Heatmaps analysis of RNA-sequencing data showed that TaHDAC genes were involved in biotic or abiotic stress response. Selected TaHDACs were differentially expressed in diverse tissues or under varying temperature conditions. All selected TaHDACs were significantly upregulated following infection with the barley stripe mosaic virus (BSMV), Chinese wheat mosaic virus (CWMV), and wheat yellow mosaic virus (WYMV), suggesting their involvement in response to viral infections. Furthermore, TaSRT1-silenced contributed to increasing wheat resistance against CWMV infection. In summary, these findings could help deepen the understanding of the structure and characteristics of the HDAC gene family in wheat and lay the foundation for exploring the function of TaHDACs in plants resistant to viral infections.
Structure of Leaf Galls in Clusia fluminensis Planch and Triana (Clusiaceae): Sex-Biased Development in a Dioecious Host Plant
Authors: Guimarães André , Vieira Ricardo , Vieira Ana
Published: December 2020

Galls are remarkable parasite–plant interactions that develop in different organs. They are induced by various organisms which manipulate or reprogram plant development. Galls in dioecious species and their effects on the host plant are seldom described in the literature. This paper presents a novel study of galls in a dioecious plant of the neotropical region. Our study aimed to analyze gall development and describe morphological and metabolic changes in galled leaves caused by Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) in Clusia fluminensis (Clusiaceae), a dioecious plant from Brazilian restinga. We investigated male and female individuals to detect different responses and sex-biased interactions. The non-galled leaves of female and male individuals of C. fluminensis exhibited similar anatomical structures. Nevertheless, galls developed only in male individuals. The activity of the Cecidomyiidae led to several morphological and anatomical changes, such as the hypertrophy of the leaf blade, especially the chlorenchyma. Our results indicated an interesting exception for the pattern of storage of lipids and starch in Cecidomyiidae galls, and sex-biased development in a dioecious plant, with the variation of metabolic compounds, especially phenolics and flavonoids, which may inhibit gall development in female individuals.
Genome-Wide Identification of the YABBY Gene Family in Seven Species of Magnoliids and Expression Analysis in Litsea
Authors: Liu Xuedie , Liao Xing-Yu , Zheng Yu , Zhu Meng-Jia , Yu Xia , Jiang Yu-Ting , Zhang Di-Yang , Ma Liang , Xu Xin-Yu , Liu Zhong-Jian , Lan Siren
Published: December 2020

The YABBY gene family, specific to seed plants, encodes a class of transcription factors in the lamina maintenance and development of lateral organs. Magnoliids are sisters to the clade-containing eudicots and monocots, which have rapidly diversified among the common ancestors of these three lineages. However, prior to this study, information on the function of the YABBY genes in magnoliids was extremely limited to the third major clades and the early diverging lineage of Mesangiospermae. In this study, the sum of 55 YABBY genes including five genes in INO, six in CRC, eight in YAB2, 22 in YAB5, and 14 in FIL clade were identified from seven magnoliid plants. Sequence analysis showed that all encoded YABBY protein sequences possess the highly conserved YABBY domain and C2C2 zinc-finger domain. Gene and protein structure analysis indicates that a certain number of exons were highly conserved and similar in the same class, and YABBY genes encode proteins of 71–392 amino acids and an open reading frame of 216–1179 bp in magnoliids. Additionally, the predicted molecular weight and isoelectric point of YABBY proteins in three species ranged from 7689.93 to 43578.13 and from 5.33 to 9.87, respectively. Meanwhile, the YABBY gene homolog expression of Litsea was detected at a temporal and spatial level during various developmental stages of leaf and reproductive tissues. This research could provide a brief overview of YABBY gene family evolution and its differential expression in magnoliids. Therefore, this comprehensive diversification analysis would provide a new insight into further understanding of the function of genes in seven magnoliids.
Poly(l-lactide)-Based Anti-Inflammatory Responsive Surfaces for Surgical Implants
Authors: Sánchez-Bodón Julia , Ruiz-Rubio Leire , Hernáez-Laviña Estíbaliz , Vilas-Vilela José Luis , Moreno-Benítez Mª Isabel
Published: December 2020

In the last few decades, surgical implants have been widely used to restore the function of damaged bones or joints. However, it is essential to receive antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment to circumvent significant problems associated, such as the colonization of the implanted surface by bacteria or other microorganisms and strong host inflammatory responses. This article presents the effectiveness of the copper catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) (“click”) reaction by the linkage of a fluorophore to the poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) surface. The results were analysed by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle and fluorescence microscopy. Moreover, this current work describes the covalent immobilization of the anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin on a PLLA surface. The CuAAC click reaction was selected to anchor the drug to the polymeric films. The successful bioconjugation of the drug was confirmed by XPS and the change on the contact angle.
Top Cited 2018–2019 Papers in the Section “Polymer Theory and Simulation”
Authors: Kröger Martin
Published: December 2020

This editorial deals with the most cited papers published in the years 2018–2019 in the section “Polymer Theory and Simulation” of the journal Polymers [...]
Method and Device Based on Multiscan for Measuring the Geometric Parameters of Objects
Authors: Alies Michael Yurievich , Shelkovnikov Yuriy Konstantinovich , Sága Milan , Vaško Milan , Kuric Ivan , Shelkovnikov Evgeny Yurievich , Korshunov Aleksandr Ivanovich , Meteleva Anastasia Alekseevna
Published: December 2020

The article deals with the issues of improving the accuracy of measurements of the geometric parameters of objects by optoelectronic systems, based on a television multiscan. A mathematical model of a multiscan with scanistor activation is developed, expressions for its integral output current and video signal are obtained, and the mechanism of their formation is investigated. An expression for the video signal is obtained that reflects the dual nature of the discrete–continuous multiscan structure: the video signal can have a discrete (pulse) or analog (continuous) form, depending on the step voltage between the photodiode cells of the multiscan. A Vernier discrete–analog method for measuring the parameters of the light zone on a multiscan is proposed, in which in order to increase the accuracy of the measurements, the location of the video pulse is determined relative to the neighboring reference pulses of a rigid geometric raster due to the slope of the discrete structure of the multiscan. It is established that the Vernier method enables one to make precision measurements of the coordinates, dimensions, and movements of the light zones by an overlay on a video raster of reference pulses from cells—a uniform sequence of Vernier pulses with a recurrence interval, followed by determining the number of the Vernier pulse that coincides with the raster pulse. An optoelectronic device based on a discrete–continuous multiscan, implemented on the basis of the proposed Vernier method of measuring the coordinates of the light zones, which has a high sensitivity to movement, is characteristic of continuous structures, and has increased stability and linearity of the coordinate characteristics typical for discrete structures, is developed.
Effect of Blanching on Enzyme Inactivation, Physicochemical Attributes and Antioxidant Capacity of Hot-Air Dried Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Arils (cv. Wonderful)
Authors: Adetoro Adegoke Olusesan , Opara Umezuruike Linus , Fawole Olaniyi Amos
Published: December 2020

Blanch-assisted hot-air drying of pomegranate arils with blanching treatments 90 °C for 30 s, 100 °C for 60 s, and unblanched (control) arils were investigated. Effects of blanching on enzyme inactivation (polyphenol oxidase and peroxidse), colour, texture, and other qualities of dried arils were discussed. The hot-air drying conditions were 60 °C, 19.6% relative humidity, and 1.0 m s−1 air velocity. Results showed that blanching reduced enzyme activity by 76% and 68% for blanched arils treated at 90 °C for 30 s and 100 °C for 60 s, respectively, compared to unblanched arils. With regard to the total colour difference (TCD), unblanched arils were 20.9% and 16.6% higher than blanched arils treated at 90 °C for 30 s and 100 °C for 60 s, respectively. Furthermore, the total soluble solids (TSS) for unblanched aril increased significantly from 16.1 to 24.9 °Brix after drying, followed by arils treated at 90 °C for 30 s and 100 °C for 60 s (21.4; 18.5 °Brix), respectively. Among the blanching treatments, dried arils treated at 90 °C for 30 s had the highest total anthocyanin content (28.6 mg C3gE/g DM), followed by 100 °C for 60 s (24.8 mg C3gE/g DM). Similarly, dried arils treated at 90 °C for 30 s had the highest radical scavenging activity (RSA) (32.1 mM TE/g DM) while the least was observed with unblanched arils (17.0 mM TE/g DM). Overall, the blanching treatment was more effective to maintain the quality attributes of pomegranate dried arils.
To Open or Close? COVID-19, Mosques and the Role of Religious Authority within the British Muslim Community: A Socio-Legal Analysis
Authors: Al-Astewani Amin
Published: December 2020

A whirlwind of developments have unfolded in the UK since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has subsequently instigated an intensely animated debate among British Muslim religious leaders about the contentious and sensitive topic of mosque closure, producing a rich and sophisticated spectrum of responses. These responses emerged within the dramatic global background of an imminent closure of Islam’s most cherished mosque to international pilgrims, namely the sacred precinct in Mekkah. The stakes were, therefore, high for British Muslim religious leaders considering mosque closure, facing the stark dilemma of compromising the sacrosanct status of the mosque and congregational worship in Islam or putting the lives of British Muslims in their hundreds of thousands at risk. This paper seeks to analyze the role of religious authority within the British Muslim community through the lens of the responses of the community’s religious leaders to the COVID-19 closure of mosques. It builds upon a Special Issue published by this journal on leadership, authority and representation in British Muslim communities. The issue of COVID-19 mosque closure in the UK presented an excellent case study for this paper’s analysis, manifesting as it does the dynamic way in which religious authority in the British Muslim community continues to evolve. This paper thus seeks to use this case-study to further enrich the literature on this topic.