bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogen-Specific Impacts of the 2011–2012 La Niña-Associated Floods on Enteric Infections in the MAL-ED Peru Cohort: A Comparative Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Colston Josh , Paredes Olortegui Maribel , Zaitchik Benjamin , Peñataro Yori Pablo , Kang Gagandeep , Ahmed Tahmeed , Bessong Pascal , Mduma Esto , Bhutta Zulfiqar , Sunder Shrestha Prakash , Lima Aldo , Kosek Margaret
Published: January 2020

Extreme floods pose multiple direct and indirect health risks. These risks include contamination of water, food, and the environment, often causing outbreaks of diarrheal disease. Evidence regarding the effects of flooding on individual diarrhea-causing pathogens is limited, but is urgently needed in order to plan and implement interventions and prioritize resources before climate-related disasters strike. This study applied a causal inference approach to data from a multisite study that deployed broadly inclusive diagnostics for numerous high-burden common enteropathogens. Relative risks (RRs) of infection with each pathogen during a flooding disaster that occurred at one of the sites—Loreto, Peru—were calculated from generalized linear models using a comparative interrupted time series framework with the other sites as a comparison group and adjusting for background seasonality. During the early period of the flood, increased risk of heat-stable enterotoxigenic E. coli (ST-ETEC) was identified (RR = 1.73 [1.10, 2.71]) along with a decreased risk of enteric adenovirus (RR = 0.36 [0.23, 0.58]). During the later period of the flood, sharp increases in the risk of rotavirus (RR = 5.30 [2.70, 10.40]) and sapovirus (RR = 2.47 [1.79, 3.41]) were observed, in addition to increases in transmission of Shigella spp. (RR = 2.86 [1.81, 4.52]) and Campylobacter spp. (RR = 1.41 (1.01, 1.07). Genotype-specific exploratory analysis reveals that the rise in rotavirus transmission during the flood was likely due to the introduction of a locally atypical, non-vaccine (G2P[4]) strain of the virus. Policy-makers should target interventions towards these pathogens—including vaccines as they become available—in settings where vulnerability to flooding is high as part of disaster preparedness strategies, while investments in radical, transformative, community-wide, and locally-tailored water and sanitation interventions are also needed.
Full-Length Transcriptome Analysis of the ABCB, PIN/PIN-LIKES, and AUX/LAX Families Involved in Somatic Embryogenesis of Lilium pumilum DC. Fisch.
Authors: Song Shengli , Wang Zhiping , Ren Yamin , Sun Hongmei
Published: January 2020

Plant cell totipotency is one of the 25 major topics in current scientific research, and somatic embryos are good experimental material for studying cell totipotency. Polar auxin transport plays an important regulatory role in somatic embryogenesis (SE). However, little is known about the auxin transport genes and their regulatory mechanisms in Lilium SE. In this study, we applied single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing to Lilium pumilum DC. Fisch. for the first time and obtained a total of 119,649 transcripts, of which 14 encoded auxin transport genes. Correlation analyses between somatic embryo induction and gene expression under different treatments revealed that auxin transport genes, especially ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter B family member 21 (ABCB21) and PIN-FORMED (PIN) LIKES 7 (PILS7), may be key players in SE, and the necessary duration of picloram (PIC) treatment to induce SE is as short as 3 days. Our research provides valuable genetic information on Lilium pumilum, elucidating the candidate auxin transport genes involved in SE and their influencing factors. This study lays a foundation for elucidating the regulatory mechanism of auxin transport in SE.
Recent Advancements of Nanomedicine towards Antiangiogenic Therapy in Cancer
Authors: Mukherjee Anubhab , Madamsetty Vijay Sagar , Paul Manash K. , Mukherjee Sudip
Published: January 2020

Angiogenesis is a process of generation of de-novo blood vessels from already existing vasculature. It has a crucial role in different physiological process including wound healing, embryonic development, and tumor growth. The methods by which therapeutic drugs inhibit tumor angiogenesis are termed as anti-angiogenesis cancer therapy. Developments of angiogenic inhibiting drugs have various limitations causing a barrier for successful treatment of cancer, where angiogenesis plays an important role. In this context, investigators developed novel strategies using nanotechnological approaches that have demonstrated inherent antiangiogenic properties or used for the delivery of antiangiogenic agents in a targeted manner. In this present article, we decisively highlight the recent developments of various nanoparticles (NPs) including liposomes, lipid NPs, protein NPs, polymer NPs, inorganic NPs, viral and bio-inspired NPs for potential application in antiangiogenic cancer therapy. Additionally, the clinical perspectives, challenges of nanomedicine, and future perspectives are briefly analyzed.
Airborne Particulate Matter (PM10) Inhibits Apoptosis through PI3K/AKT/FoxO3a Pathway in Lung Epithelial Cells: The Role of a Second Oxidant Stimulus
Authors: García-Cuellar Claudia M. , Chirino Yolanda I. , Morales-Bárcenas Rocío , Soto-Reyes Ernesto , Quintana-Belmares Raúl , Santibáñez-Andrade Miguel , Sánchez-Pérez Yesennia
Published: January 2020

Outdoor particulate matter (PM10) exposure is carcinogenic to humans. The cellular mechanism by which PM10 is associated specifically with lung cancer includes oxidative stress and damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA in the absence of apoptosis, suggesting that PM10 induces cellular survival. We aimed to evaluate the PI3K/AKT/FoxO3a pathway as a mechanism of cell survival in lung epithelial A549 cells exposed to PM10 that were subsequently challenged with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Our results showed that pre-exposure to PM10 followed by H2O2, as a second oxidant stimulus increased the phosphorylation rate of pAKTSer473, pAKTThr308, and pFoxO3aSer253 2.5-fold, 1.8-fold, and 1.2-fold, respectively. Levels of catalase and p27kip1, which are targets of the PIK3/AKT/FoxO3a pathway, decreased 38.1% and 62.7%, respectively. None of these changes had an influence on apoptosis; however, the inhibition of PI3K using the LY294002 compound revealed that the PI3K/AKT/FoxO3a pathway was involved in apoptosis evasion. We conclude that nontoxic PM10 exposure predisposes lung epithelial cell cultures to evade apoptosis through the PI3K/AKT/FoxO3a pathway when cells are treated with a second oxidant stimulus.
Visceral Adipose Tissue Inflammatory Factors (TNF-Alpha, SOCS3) in Gestational Diabetes (GDM): Epigenetics as a Clue in GDM Pathophysiology
Authors: Rancourt Rebecca C. , Ott Raffael , Ziska Thomas , Schellong Karen , Melchior Kerstin , Henrich Wolfgang , Plagemann Andreas
Published: January 2020

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is among the most challenging diseases in westernized countries, affecting mother and child, immediately and in later life. Obesity is a major risk factor for GDM. However, the impact visceral obesity and related epigenetics play for GDM etiopathogenesis have hardly been considered so far. Our recent findings within the prospective ‘EaCH’ cohort study of women with GDM or normal glucose tolerance (NGT), showed the role, critical factors of insulin resistance (i.e., adiponectin, insulin receptor) may have for GDM pathophysiology with epigenetically modified expression in subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral (VAT) adipose tissues. Here we investigated the expression and promoter methylation of key inflammatory candidates, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) in maternal adipose tissues collected during caesarian section (GDM, n = 19; NGT, n = 22). The mRNA expression of TNF-α and SOCS3 was significantly increased in VAT, but not in SAT, of GDM patients vs. NGT, accompanied by specific alterations of respective promoter methylation patterns. In conclusion, we propose a critical role of VAT and visceral obesity for the pathogenesis of GDM, with epigenetic alterations of the expression of inflammatory factors as a potential factor.
Chitosan Derivatives and Their Application in Biomedicine
Authors: Wang Wenqian , Meng Qiuyu , Li Qi , Liu Jinbao , Zhou Mo , Jin Zheng , Zhao Kai
Published: January 2020

Chitosan is a product of the deacetylation of chitin, which is widely found in nature. Chitosan is insoluble in water and most organic solvents, which seriously limits both its application scope and applicable fields. However, chitosan contains active functional groups that are liable to chemical reactions; thus, chitosan derivatives can be obtained through the chemical modification of chitosan. The modification of chitosan has been an important aspect of chitosan research, showing a better solubility, pH-sensitive targeting, an increased number of delivery systems, etc. This review summarizes the modification of chitosan by acylation, carboxylation, alkylation, and quaternization in order to improve the water solubility, pH sensitivity, and the targeting of chitosan derivatives. The applications of chitosan derivatives in the antibacterial, sustained slowly release, targeting, and delivery system fields are also described. Chitosan derivatives will have a large impact and show potential in biomedicine for the development of drugs in future.
Resting Energy Expenditure and Body Composition in Overweight Men and Women Living in a Temperate Climate
Authors: Martin-Rincon Marcos , Perez-Valera Mario , Morales-Alamo David , Perez-Suarez Ismael , Dorado Cecilia , Gonzalez-Henriquez Juan J. , Juan-Habib Julian W. , Quintana-Garcia Cristian , Galvan-Alvarez Victor , Pedrianes-Martin Pablo B. , Acosta Carmen , Curtelin David , Calbet Jose A.L. , de Pablos-Velasco Pedro
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to determine whether the measured resting energy expenditure (REE) in overweight and obese patients living in a temperate climate is lower than the predicted REE; and to ascertain which equation should be used in patients living in a temperate climate. REE (indirect calorimetry) and body composition (DXA) were measured in 174 patients (88 men and 86 women; 20–68 years old) with overweight or obesity (BMI 27–45 kg m−2). All volunteers were residents in Gran Canaria (monthly temperatures: 18–24 °C). REE was lower than predicted by most equations in our population. Age and BMI were similar in both sexes. In the whole population, the equations of Mifflin, Henry and Rees, Livingston and Owen, had similar levels of accuracy (non-significant bias of 0.7%, 1.1%, 0.6%, and −2.2%, respectively). The best equation to predict resting energy expenditure in overweight and moderately obese men and women living in a temperate climate all year round is the Mifflin equation. In men, the equations by Henry and Rees, Livingston, and by Owen had predictive accuracies comparable to that of Mifflin. The body composition-based equation of Johnston was slightly more accurate than Mifflin’s in men. In women, none of the body composition-based equations outperformed Mifflin’s.
The Erythrocytic Hypothesis of Brain Energy Crisis in Sporadic Alzheimer Disease: Possible Consequences and Supporting Evidence
Authors: Kosenko Elena , Tikhonova Lyudmila , Alilova Gubidat , Urios Amparo , Montoliu Carmina
Published: January 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a fatal form of dementia of unknown etiology. Although amyloid plaque accumulation in the brain has been the subject of intensive research in disease pathogenesis and anti-amyloid drug development; the continued failures of the clinical trials suggest that amyloids are not a key cause of AD and new approaches to AD investigation and treatment are needed. We propose a new hypothesis of AD development based on metabolic abnormalities in circulating red blood cells (RBCs) that slow down oxygen release from RBCs into brain tissue which in turn leads to hypoxia-induced brain energy crisis; loss of neurons; and progressive atrophy preceding cognitive dysfunction. This review summarizes current evidence for the erythrocytic hypothesis of AD development and provides new insights into the causes of neurodegeneration offering an innovative way to diagnose and treat this systemic disease.
A Comparison of Cervical and Thoracolumbar Fractures Associated with Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis—A Nationwide Multicenter Study
Authors: Katoh Hiroyuki , Okada Eijiro , Yoshii Toshitaka , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Watanabe Kei , Katsumi Keiichi , Hiyama Akihiko , Nakagawa Yukihiro , Okada Motohiro , Endo Teruaki , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Matsunaga Shunji , Maruo Keishi , Sakai Kenichiro , Kobayashi Sho , Ohba Tetsuro , Wada Kanichiro , Ohya Junichi , Mori Kanji , Tsushima Mikito , Nishimura Hirosuke , Tsuji Takashi , Watanabe Kota , Matsumoto Morio , Okawa Atsushi , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: January 2020

In diffuse idiopathic hyperostosis (DISH), the ankylosed spine becomes susceptible to spinal fractures and spinal cord injuries due to the long lever arms of the fractured segments that make the fracture extremely unstable. The aim of this retrospective multicenter study was to examine the differences in DISH-affected spine fractures according to fracture level. The data of 285 cases with fractures of DISH-ankylosed segments diagnosed through computed tomography (CT) imaging were studied and the characteristics of 84 cases with cervical fractures were compared to 201 cases with thoracolumbar fractures. Examination of the CT images revealed that cervical fracture cases were associated with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and had fractures at the intervertebral disc level, while thoracolumbar fracture cases were associated with ankylosing of the posterior elements and had fractures at the vertebral body. Neurologically, cervical fracture cases had a higher ratio of spinal cord injury leading to higher mortality, while thoracolumbar fracture cases had lower rates of initial spinal cord injury. However, a subset of thoracolumbar fracture cases suffered from a delay in diagnosis that led to higher rates of delayed neurological deterioration. Some of these thoracolumbar fracture cases had no apparent injury episode but experienced severe neurological deterioration. The information provided by this study will hopefully aid in the education of patients with DISH and raise the awareness of clinicians to potential pitfalls in the assessment of DISH trauma patients.
Impact of Right Atrial Physiology on Heart Failure and Adverse Events after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Schuster Andreas , Backhaus Sören J. , Stiermaier Thomas , Navarra Jenny-Lou , Uhlig Johannes , Rommel Karl-Philipp , Koschalka Alexander , Kowallick Johannes T. , Bigalke Boris , Kutty Shelby , Gutberlet Matthias , Hasenfuß Gerd , Thiele Holger , Eitel Ingo
Published: January 2020

Background: Right ventricular (RV) function is a known predictor of adverse events in heart failure and following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). While right atrial (RA) involvement is well characterized in pulmonary arterial hypertension, its relative contributions to adverse events following AMI especially in patients with heart failure and congestion need further evaluation. Methods: In this cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-substudy of AIDA STEMI and TATORT NSTEMI, 1235 AMI patients underwent CMR after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in 15 centers across Germany (n = 795 with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and 440 with non-ST-elevation MI). Right atrial (RA) performance was evaluated using CMR myocardial feature tracking (CMR-FT) for the assessment of RA reservoir (total strain εs), conduit (passive strain εe), booster pump function (active strain εa), and associated strain rates (SR) in a blinded core-laboratory. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) 12 months post AMI. Results: RA reservoir (εs p = 0.061, SRs p = 0.049) and conduit functions (εe p = 0.006, SRe p = 0.030) were impaired in patients with MACE as opposed to RA booster pump (εa p = 0.579, SRa p = 0.118) and RA volume index (p = 0.866). RA conduit function was associated with the clinical onset of heart failure and MACE independently of RV systolic function and atrial fibrillation (AF) (multivariable analysis hazard ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.92 to 0.99, p = 0.009), while RV systolic function and AF were not independent prognosticators. Furthermore, RA conduit strain identified low- and high-risk groups within patients with reduced RV systolic function (p = 0.019 on log rank testing). Conclusions: RA impairment is a distinct feature and independent risk factor in patients following AMI and can be easily assessed using CMR-FT-derived quantification of RA strain.
Multi-Wire Sawing of Translucent Alumina Ceramics
Authors: Schmidtner Lea , Heinrich Hannes , Fuchs Marcel , Pötzsch Anke , Janz Stefan , Herrmann Mathias , Aneziris Christos , Kaden Thomas
Published: January 2020

Multi-wire sawing has emerged as the leading technology in wafer production for a variety of semiconductor materials. This study investigates the process stability and efficiency of conventional semiconductor multi-wire slurry saws in routinely machining translucent, high-density alumina ceramics. The brittle and fine-grained translucent alumina ceramics with extreme hardness and wear resistance represents a major challenge for the process. The alumina ceramic substrates are used for sensor applications, energy storage technology and applications in power electronics. An ideal adaptation of the sawing process parameters to the workpiece properties guarantees the efficiency of the slurry sawing process and the quality of the ceramic wafers. An indicator of the efficiency and cutting ability of the sawing process is the size of the bow of the wire web. The first time was shown that the wire bow can be used for the characterization of the sawing processes for hard and brittle technical ceramics. It was found that a longer workpiece length, a higher number of wafers and stronger abrasive wear lead to an increased size of the bow. The rocking frequency has no measurable influence on the size of the bow. Knowledge of these relations is an extremely valuable tool in the sawing process development for hard and brittle technical ceramics.
Not Simply Green: Nature-Based Solutions as a Concept and Practical Approach for Sustainability Studies and Planning Agendas in Cities
Authors: Dushkova Diana , Haase Dagmar
Published: January 2020

The concept of a nature-based solution (NBS) has been developed in order to operationalize an ecosystem services approach within spatial planning policies and practices, to fully integrate the ecological dimension, and, at the same time, to address current societal challenges in cities. It exceeds the bounds of traditional approaches that aim ‘to protect and preserve’ by considering enhancing, restoring, co-creating, and co-designing urban green networks with nature that are characterized by multifunctionality and connectivity. NBSs include the main ideas of green and blue infrastructure, ecosystem services, and biomimicry concepts, and they are considered to be urban design and planning tools for ecologically sensitive urban development. Nowadays, NBSs are on their way to the mainstream as part of both national and international policies. The successful implementation of NBSs in Europe and worldwide, which is becoming increasingly common, highlights the importance and relevance of NBS for sustainable and livable cities. This paper discusses the roles, development processes, and functions of NBSs in cities by taking Leipzig as a case study. Using data from interviews conducted from 2017 to 2019, we study the past and current challenges that the city faces, including the whole process of NBS implementation and successful realization. We discuss the main drivers, governance actors, and design options of NBSs. We highlight the ecosystem services provided by each NBS. We discuss these drivers and governance strategies by applying the framework for assessing the co-benefits of NBSs in urban areas in order to assess the opportunities and challenges that NBSs may have. This way, we are able to identify steps and procedures that help to increase the evidence base for the effectiveness of NBS by providing examples of best practice that demonstrate the multiple co-benefits provided by NBSs.
Quality Assessment and Process Management of Welded Joints in Metal Construction—A Review
Authors: Pereira António B. , de Melo Francisco J. M. Q.
Published: January 2020

This paper aims to express the maturity and dynamism of welding in industry. It follows the direct observation of international construction standards and rules, here described as an introduction to the most relevant themes in the area of welding processes. Quality management in welded construction involves well-regulated procedures which are, however, so vast that they are of great complexity. In fact, there are hundreds of rules to apply to each specific case. This makes it imperative to have a welding coordinator, at least in cases of greater responsibility. In fact, the application of the rules presents yet another difficulty: along with the breadth of the rules, each country may adopt certain special requirements in their own case. Thus, it is essential to know the necessary path for the proper development of responsible work. First, one must know the various welding processes, their advantages and limitations; then one must identify the regulations applicable to the work concerned; and finally, one must know what tests and qualifications are required, including the expected defects and acceptance criteria. One purpose of this work is to show the necessary path for the implementation of a welding quality management system in metal construction, as well as to present the numerous applicable norms, both for the welder and the welding coordinator, but also for the process and the product. This paper also presents an analysis of how to obtain the CE marking (Conformité Européene) for a welded metal construction and which normative ramifications apply.
An Empirical Model for GaN Light Emitters with Dot-in-Wire Polar Nanostructures
Authors: Sui Jingyang , Ku Pei-Cheng
Published: January 2020

A set of empirical equations were developed to describe the optical properties of III-nitride dot-in-wire nanostructures. These equations depend only on the geometric properties of the structures, enabling the design process of a III-nitride light emitter comprised of dot-in-wire polar nanostructures, to be greatly simplified without first-principle calculations. Results from the empirical model were compared to experimental measurements and reasonably good agreements were observed. Strain relaxation was found to be the dominant effect in determining the optical properties of dot-in-wire nanostructures.
Cobalt Catalyzed C-P Bond Formation by Cross-Coupling of Boronic Acids with P(O)H Compounds in Presence of Zinc
Authors: Hicks Ian , McTague Jonathan , Hapatsha Tatiana , Teriak Rania , Kaur Parminder
Published: January 2020

In our current work, we have reported the first cobalt-catalyzed cross-coupling of arylboronic acid with alkyl/aryl phosphites under mild conditions. The reaction was carried out in the presence of zinc powder as an additive and ter-pyridine as a ligand. The use of non-precious cobalt salt makes the protocol advantageous, as it is inexpensive and more abundant than the previously used methods where precious metal salts (Pd and Pt) were used. The reaction has a wide substrate scope and the products were obtained in good yields.
The Emulsifying Properties of Hydrogenated Rosin Xylitol Ester as a Biomass Surfactant for Food: Effect of pH and Salts
Authors: Qiu Hong , Chen Xiaopeng , Wei Xiaojie , Liang Jiezhen , Zhou Dan , Wang Linlin
Published: January 2020

The xylitol ester of hydrogenated rosin (XEHR) was obtained for the first time from biomass-based hydrogenated rosin and xylitol using an environmentally friendly, high-pressure CO2 catalytic synthesis. This compound is intended for use as an emulsifier for food. Analyses by ICP-AES showed the absence of heavy metal residues in the product, such that it met food standards. Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies together with gel permeation chromatography confirmed the successful esterification and the formation of a monoester and diester with molar masses of 427 and 772 g/mol. The emulsification of water/soybean oil mixtures by adding the XEHR was assessed at pH values of 4, 6.86, and 10 and in the presence of NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, and CaCl2. The XEHR was found to act as an emulsifier by reducing the interfacial tension of such mixtures to less than 2 mN/m under all conditions. The highest emulsifying activity index (9.52 m2/g) and emulsifying stability index (94.53%) were obtained after adding MgCl2 (100 mM). Particle size and confocal microscopy showed that the presence of salts gave a more uniform droplet size and a finer emulsion structure. The high viscosities of the emulsions containing salts also suggested a more cohesive oil droplet network.
Design of Heat-Conductive hBN–PMMA Composites by Electrostatic Nano-Assembly
Authors: Yokoi Atsushi , Tan Wai Kian , Kuroda Taichi , Kawamura Go , Matsuda Atsunori , Muto Hiroyuki
Published: January 2020

Micro/nanoscale design of composite materials enables alteration of their properties for advanced functional materials. One of the biggest challenges in material design is the controlled decoration of composite materials with the desired functional additives. This study reports on and demonstrates the homogeneous decoration of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) on poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) and vice versa. The formation of the composite materials was conducted via a low environmental load and a low-energy-consuming, electrostatic nano-assembly method which also enabled the efficient usage of nano-sized additives. The hBN/PMMA and PMMA/hBN composites were fabricated in various size combinations that exhibited percolated and layer-oriented structures, respectively. The thermal conductivity behaviors of hBN/PMMA and PMMA/hBN composites that exhibited good microstructure were compared. The results showed that microstructural design of the composites enabled the modification of their heat-conducting property. This novel work demonstrated the feasibility of fabricating heat-conductive PMMA matrix composites with controlled decoration of hBN sheets, which may provide a platform for further development of heat-conductive polymeric materials.
Identification of a Circulating Amino Acid Signature in Frail Older Persons with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Results from the Metabofrail Study
Authors: Calvani Riccardo , Rodriguez-Mañas Leocadio , Picca Anna , Marini Federico , Biancolillo Alessandra , Laosa Olga , Pedraza Laura , Gervasoni Jacopo , Primiano Aniello , Conta Giorgia , Bourdel-Marchasson Isabelle , Regueme Sophie C. , Bernabei Roberto , Marzetti Emanuele , Sinclair Alan J. , Gambassi Giovanni
Published: January 2020

Diabetes and frailty are highly prevalent conditions that impact the health status of older adults. Perturbations in protein/amino acid metabolism are associated with both functional impairment and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the present study, we compared the concentrations of a panel of circulating 37 amino acids and derivatives between frail/pre-frail older adults with T2DM and robust non-diabetic controls. Sixty-six functionally impaired older persons aged 70+ with T2DM and 30 age and sex-matched controls were included in the analysis. We applied a partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA)-based analytical strategy to characterize the metabotype of study participants. The optimal complexity of the PLS-DA model was found to be two latent variables. The proportion of correct classification was 94.1 ± 1.9% for frail/pre-frail persons with T2DM and 100% for control participants. Functionally impaired older persons with T2DM showed higher levels of 3-methyl histidine, alanine, arginine, glutamic acid, ethanolamine sarcosine, and tryptophan. Control participants had higher levels of ornithine and taurine. These findings indicate that a specific profile of amino acids and derivatives characterizes pre-frail/frail older persons with T2DM. The dissection of these pathways may provide novel insights into the metabolic perturbations involved in the disabling cascade in older persons with T2DM.
Clinical, Ultrasonographic, Bacteriological, Cytological and Histopathological Findings of Uterine Involution in Ewes with Uterine Infection
Authors: Ioannidi Katerina S. , Vasileiou Natalia G. C. , Barbagianni Marianna S. , Orfanou Denise C. , Mantziaras George , Chouzouris Thomas M. , Dovolou Eleni , Chatzopoulos Dimitris C. , Karavanis Emmanouil , Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Katsafadou Angeliki I. , Fragkou Ilektra A. , Kordalis Nikos G. , Amiridis George S. , Fthenakis George C. , Mavrogianni Vasia S.
Published: January 2020

The objectives of the study were (a) to study the characteristics of uterine involution in ewes that had developed subclinical uterine infection in the immediately post-partum period and (b) to evaluate effects of the infection in the subsequent reproductive performance of ewes. Uterine infection was induced in ewes (I, n = 10) by intrauterine inoculation of Escherichia coli; uninoculated controls were included (C, n = 12). Animals were examined at regular intervals before and post-inoculation. Clinical and ultrasonographic examinations were performed. Vaginal swab samples and biopsy uterine tissue samples were collected for bacteriological, cytological and histological examination. Finally, ewes were put to rams and reproductive performance was monitored. After challenge, it was ultrasonographically found that caruncular dimensions, myometrial thickness and diameter of uterine lumen were greater in I ewes. In these ewes, particular reduction of dimensions occurred during the second week post-partum, whilst in C ewes during the first week. The uterine artery diameter and the blood flow into the uterus were also greater in I than in C ewes. E. coli infection was more frequent and of longer duration in I than in C ewes: in 68.1% and 50.0% of ewes and 19.5 and 14 days, respectively. There was lower proportion of neutrophils and higher of lymphocytes in group I than in C. In inoculated ewes, there was histological evidence of uterine epithelial destruction, increased cellular infiltration, hyperaemia and extracasation, which persisted up to 42 days post-partum. During the subsequent reproductive season, all ewes in group I lambed normally and produced healthy and viable lambs. No significant difference in reproductive performance parameters were seen in I comparison to C ewes. It is concluded that the innate immunity of the uterus sufficed to counteract the bacterial infection, although the process of involution took longer than in healthy animals; moreover, the ultrasonographic examination is a useful means for assessment of the genital tract of ewes post-partum; finally, no adverse effects were noted in the subsequent reproductive performance of ewes.
Zein Beta-Cyclodextrin Micropowders for Iron Bisglycinate Delivery
Authors: Esposito Diletta , Dal Poggetto Giovanni , Demont Aurélie , Kraut Nicolai , Miro Agnese , Ungaro Francesca , Laurienzo Paola , Quaglia Fabiana
Published: January 2020

Given the limited number of materials available to design delivery platforms for nutrients, the rational combination of raw materials already approved as food ingredients and their processing through nano-micro technology can offer a unique tool for innovation. Here, we propose a nano-in-micro strategy to produce powders based on the hydrophobic protein zein, useful for the oral delivery of a hydrophilic iron source (iron bisglycinate) in anaemic patients. Iron-loaded powders were prepared through a two-step strategy consisting in the formation of a zein pseudolatex followed by a spray-drying step. To extend the manipulation space for zein and entrap iron bisglycinate, β-cyclodextrin (βCD) was selected as helping excipient. Addition of βCD allowed iron loading in the pseudolatex and greatly increased product yields after the drying process as compared to zein alone. Iron-loaded micro-sized powders were characterised by attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectra, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to elucidate the role of βCD as a compatibilizer for the zein–iron system. Remarkably, micropowders released only 20% of FeBIS in a simulated gastric fluid, whereas release in a simulated intestinal fluid was almost completed in 7 h. In summary, βCD association to zein is a novel strategy to expand applications in the oral delivery of iron bisglycinate and, prospectively, to micronutrient chelates.
Current Progress in Nitrogen Fixing Plants and Microbiome Research
Authors: Mahmud Kishan , Makaju Shiva , Ibrahim Razi , Missaoui Ali
Published: January 2020

In agroecosystems, nitrogen is one of the major nutrients limiting plant growth. To meet the increased nitrogen demand in agriculture, synthetic fertilizers have been used extensively in the latter part of the twentieth century, which have led to environmental challenges such as nitrate pollution. Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in plants is an essential mechanism for sustainable agricultural production and healthy ecosystem functioning. BNF by legumes and associative, endosymbiotic, and endophytic nitrogen fixation in non-legumes play major roles in reducing the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture, increased plant nutrient content, and soil health reclamation. This review discusses the process of nitrogen-fixation in plants, nodule formation, the genes involved in plant-rhizobia interaction, and nitrogen-fixing legume and non-legume plants. This review also elaborates on current research efforts involved in transferring nitrogen-fixing mechanisms from legumes to non-legumes, especially to economically important crops such as rice, maize, and wheat at the molecular level and relevant other techniques involving the manipulation of soil microbiome for plant benefits in the non-legume root environment.
Effect of CNTs Additives on the Energy Balance of Carbon/Epoxy Nanocomposites during Dynamic Compression Test
Authors: Chihi Manel , Tarfaoui Mostapha , Bouraoui Chokri , El Moumen Ahmed
Published: January 2020

Previous research has shown that nanocomposites show not only enhancements in mechanical properties (stiffness, fracture toughness) but also possess remarkable energy absorption characteristics. However, the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as nanofiller in reinforced epoxy composites like glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP) or carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) under dynamic testing is still underdeveloped. The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of integrating nanofillers such as CNTs into the epoxy matrix of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) on their dynamic energy absorption potential under impact. An out-of-plane compressive test at high strain rates was performed using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB), and the results were analyzed to study the effect of changing the concentration of CNTs on the energy absorption properties of the nanocomposites. A strong correlation between strain rates and CNT mass fractions was found out, showing that an increase in percentage of CNTs could enhance the dynamic properties and energy absorption capabilities of fiber-reinforced composites.
Acid-Base Flow Battery, Based on Reverse Electrodialysis with Bi-Polar Membranes: Stack Experiments
Authors: Xia Jiabing , Eigenberger Gerhart , Strathmann Heinrich , Nieken Ulrich
Published: January 2020

Neutralization of acid and base to produce electricity in the process of reverse electrodialysis with bipolar membranes (REDBP) presents an interesting but until now fairly overlooked flow battery concept. Previously, we presented single-cell experiments, which explain the principle and discuss the potential of this process. In this contribution, we discuss experiments with REDBP stacks at lab scale, consisting of 5 to 20 repeating cell units. They demonstrate that the single-cell results can be extrapolated to respective stacks, although additional losses have to be considered. As in other flow battery stacks, losses by shunt currents through the parallel electrolyte feed/exit lines increases with the number of connected cell units, whereas the relative importance of electrode losses decreases with increasing cell number. Experimental results are presented with 1 mole L−1 acid (HCl) and base (NaOH) for open circuit as well as for charge and discharge with up to 18 mA/cm2 current density. Measures to further increase the efficiency of this novel flow battery concept are discussed.
Dust Lidar Ratios Retrieved from the CALIOP Measurements Using the MODIS AOD as a Constraint
Authors: Kim Man-Hae , Kim Sang-Woo , Omar Ali H.
Published: January 2020

Lidar ratio for dust aerosols is retrieved from a synergetic use of the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) Total Attenuated Backscatter coefficients and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Aerosol Optical Depths (AODs) for 5 years from 2007 to 2011. MODIS AODs from the Dark Target (DT) algorithm over ocean and from the Deep Blue (DB) algorithm over land are used as a constraint for the retrieval. The dust lidar ratio is retrieved larger over land (46.6 ± 36.3 sr) than ocean (39.5 ± 16.8 sr) and shows distinct regional variation. Lidar ratio for Saharan dust (49.5 ± 36.8 sr) is larger than Arabian dust (42.5 ± 26.2 sr). Lidar ratios for dust aerosols transported to Mediterranean Sea (44.4 ± 15.9 sr), Mid Atlantic (40.3 ± 12.4 sr), and Arabian Sea (37.5 ± 12.1 sr) show lower values relative to their source regions. Retrieved dust lidar ratios for Taklamakan and Gobi Deserts region (35.0 ± 31.1 sr) and Australia (35.4 ± 34.4 sr) are slightly lower than the above-mentioned regions. AOD comparison between CALIOP and MODIS shows that the CALIOP AOD is biased low. When including clear air AOD for CALIOP, however, AODs from two sensors become more comparable.
A Sentinel-1 Based Processing Chain for Detection of Cyclonic Flood Impacts
Authors: Alexandre Cyprien , Johary Rosa , Catry Thibault , Mouquet Pascal , Révillion Christophe , Rakotondraompiana Solofo , Pennober Gwenaelle
Published: January 2020

In the future, climate change will induce even more severe hurricanes. Not only should these be better understood, but there is also a necessity to improve the assessment of their impacts. Flooding is one of the most common powerful impacts of these storms. Analyzing the impacts of floods is essential in order to delineate damaged areas and study the economic cost of hurricane-related floods. This paper presents an automated processing chain for Sentinel-1 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. This processing chain is based on the S1-Tiling algorithm and the normalized difference ratio (NDR). It is able to download and clip S1 images on Sentinel-2 tiles footprints, perform multi-temporal filtering, and threshold NDR images to produce a mask of flooded areas. Applied to two different study zones, subject to hurricanes and cyclones, this chain is reliable and simple to implement. With the rapid mapping product of EMS Copernicus (Emergency Management Service) as reference, the method confers up to 95% accuracy and a Kappa value of 0.75.
Collaborative Smartphone-Based User Positioning in a Multiple-User Context Using Wireless Technologies
Authors: Ta Viet-Cuong , Dao Trung-Kien , Vaufreydaz Dominique , Castelli Eric
Published: January 2020

For the localization of multiple users, Bluetooth data from the smartphone is able to complement Wi-Fi-based methods with additional information, by providing an approximation of the relative distances between users. In practice, both positions provided by Wi-Fi data and relative distance provided by Bluetooth data are subject to a certain degree of noise due to the uncertainty of radio propagation in complex indoor environments. In this study, we propose and evaluate two approaches, namely Non-temporal and Temporal ones, of collaborative positioning to combine these two cohabiting technologies to improve the tracking performance. In the Non-temporal approach, our model establishes an error observation function in a specific interval of the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi output. It is then able to reduce the positioning error by looking for ways to minimize the error function. The Temporal approach employs an extended error model that takes into account the time component between users’ movements. For performance evaluation, several multi-user scenarios in an indoor environment are set up. Results show that for certain scenarios, the proposed approaches attain over 40% of improvement in terms of average accuracy.
Performance Analysis of Cooperative NOMA Networks with Imperfect CSI over Nakagami-m Fading Channels
Authors: Gong Xianli , Yue Xinwei , Liu Feng
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we investigate a downlink cooperative non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) network with decode-and-forward relaying, where two scenarios of user relaying with direct link and user relaying without direct link are discussed in detail. More particularly, the performance of cooperative NOMA system under the assumption of imperfect channel state information (ipCSI) is studied over Nakagami-m fading channels. To evaluate the outage performance of the above discussed two scenarios, the closed-form expressions of outage probability for a pair of users are derived carefully. The diversity orders of users are achieved in the high signal-to-noise region. An error floor appears in the outage probability owing to the existence of channel estimation errors under ipCSI conditions. Simulation results verify the validity of our analysis and show that: (1) NOMA is superior to conventional orthogonal multiple access; (2) The best user relaying location for cooperative NOMA networks should be near to the base station; and (3) The outage performance of distant user with direct link significantly outperforms distant user without direct link by comparing the two scenarios.
Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MF-DFA) of Stock Market Indexes. Empirical Evidence from Seven Central and Eastern European Markets
Authors: Miloş Laura Raisa , Haţiegan Cornel , Miloş Marius Cristian , Barna Flavia Mirela , Boțoc Claudiu
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we present a comparative investigation of the multifractal properties of seven Central and Eastern European (CEE) stock markets using recent financial data up to August 2018 by employing seasonal and trend decompositions before applying multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis. We find that stock indices returns exhibit long-range correlations, supporting the idea that the stock markets in question are not efficient markets and have not reached a mature stage of market development. The results of the paper are of interest to investors looking for opportunities in these stock exchanges and also to policy makers in their endeavour of realizing institutional reforms in order to increase stock market efficiency and to support the sustainable growth of the financial markets.
Analysis of Spatio-temporal Characteristics and Driving Forces of Air Quality in the Northern Coastal Comprehensive Economic Zone, China
Authors: Su Ying , Lu Chunyan , Lin Xiaoqing , Zhong Lianxiu , Gao Yibin , Lei Yifan
Published: January 2020

Comprehensive analysis of air quality is essential to underpin knowledge-based air quality conservation policies and funding decisions by governments and managers. In this paper, air quality change characteristics for the Northern Coastal Comprehensive Economic Zone from 2008 to 2018 were analyzed using air quality indices. The spatio-temporal pattern of air quality was identified using centroid migration, spatial autocorrelation analysis and spatial analysis in a geographic information system (GIS). A spatial econometric model was established to confirm the natural and anthropogenic factors affecting air quality. Results showed that air pollution decreased significantly. PM2.5, PM10, and O3 were the primary pollutants. The air quality exhibited an inverted U-shaped trend from January to December, with the highest quality being observed in summer and the lowest during winter. Spatially, the air quality showed an increasing trend from inland to the coast and from north to south, with significant spatial autocorrelation and clustering. Population, energy consumption, temperature, and atmospheric pressure had significant negative impacts on air quality, while wind speed had a positive impact. This study offers an efficient and effective method to evaluate air quality change. The research provides important scientific information necessary for developing future air pollution prevention and control.
Influence of the Fiber Volume Content on the Durability-Related Properties of Polypropylene-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Wang Chenfei , Guo Zixiong , Niu Ditao
Published: January 2020

Polypropylene-fiber-reinforced concrete impacts the early shrinkage during the plastic stage of concrete, and the fiber volume content influences the durability-related properties of concrete. The purpose of this paper was to investigate the influence of fiber volume content on the mechanical properties, durability, and chloride ion penetration of polypropylene-fiber-reinforced concrete in a chloride environment. Tests were carried out on cubes and cylinders of polypropylene-fiber-reinforced concrete with polypropylene fiber contents ranging from 0% to 0.5%. Extensive data from flexural strength testing, dry–wet testing, deicer frost testing, and chloride penetration testing were recorded and analyzed. The test results show that the addition of the fiber improves the failure form of the concrete specimens, and 0.1% fiber content maximizes the compactness of the concrete. The flexural strength of specimen C2 with 0.1% fiber shows the highest strength obtained herein after freeze–thaw cycling, and the water absorption of specimen C2 is also the lowest after dry–wet cycling. The results also indicate that increasing the fiber volume content improves the freeze–thaw resistance of the concrete in a chloride environment. Chlorine ions migrate with the moisture during dry–wet and freeze–thaw cycling. The chlorine ion diffusion coefficient (Dcl) increases with increasing fiber content, except for that of specimen C2 in a chloride environment. The Dcl during freeze–thaw cycling is much higher than that during dry–wet cycling.
Mechanical and Processing Properties of Rice Grains
Authors: Kruszelnicka Weronika , Marczuk Andrzej , Kasner Robert , Bałdowska-Witos Patrycja , Piotrowska Katarzyna , Flizikowski Józef , Tomporowski Andrzej
Published: January 2020

Strength properties of grains have a significant impact on the energy demand of grinding mills. This paper presents the results of tests of strength and energy needed the for destruction of rice grains. The research aim was to experimentally determine mechanical and processing properties of the rice grains. The research problem was formulated in the form of questions: (1) what force and energy are needed to induce a rupture of rice grain of the Oryza sativa L. of long-grain variety? (2) what is the relationship between grain size and strength parameters and the energy of grinding rice grain of the species Oryza sativa L. long-grain variety? In order to find the answer to the problems posed, a static compression test of rice grains was done. The results indicate that the average forces needed to crush rice grain are 174.99 kg m·s−2, and the average energy is 28.03 mJ. There was no statistically significant relationship between the grain volume calculated based on the volumetric mass density Vρ and the crushing energy, nor between the volume Vρ and other strength properties of rice grains. In the case of Vs, a low negative correlation between strength σmin and a low positive correlation between the power inducing the first crack were found for the grain size related volume. A low negative correlation between the grain thickness a3, stresses σmin and work WFmax was found as well as a low positive correlation between thickness a3 and the force inducing the first crack Fmin.