bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Circulating markers of collagen types I, III, and IV in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy: relationships with myocardial collagen expression
Authors: Nagao Kazuya , Inada Tsukasa , Tamura Akinori , Kajitani Kenji , Shimamura Kiyotaka , Yukawa Hiroshi , Aida Kenji , Sowa Naoya , Nishiga Masataka , Horie Takahiro , Makita Toshinori , Ono Koh , Tanaka Masaru 
Published: October 2018

AbstractAimsCollagen‐derived peptides such as collagen I C‐terminal telopeptide (CITP) and procollagen III N‐terminal propeptide (PIIINP) have been conventionally used as markers of cardiac fibrosis. Collagen IV 7S domain (P4NP 7S) has been recently reported to be correlated with haemodynamics in patients with acute heart failure. We investigated whether these markers reflect cardiac remodelling and myocardial collagen expression.Methods and resultsIn 80 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, relationships of CITP, PIIINP, and P4NP 7S to clinical and echocardiographic variables were analysed. CITP and PIIINP were inversely correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (r = −0.41, P < 0.001 and r = −0.32, P = 0.004, respectively); P4NP 7S was positively correlated with B‐type natriuretic peptide (r = 0.32, P = 0.003) and γ‐glutamyltransferase (r = 0.38, P < 0.001). These correlations were significant even after adjustment by potential confounders, whereas all three collagen markers were not independently correlated with ejection fraction nor with left ventricular (LV) diastolic diameter. In 33 patients undergoing endomyocardial biopsy, myocardial collagen I and III mRNA expressions were correlated with LV end‐diastolic volume index (r = 0.42, P = 0.02 and r = 0.54, P = 0.002, respectively), whereas myocardial collagen IV mRNA expression was not correlated with LV end‐diastolic volume index nor with ejection fraction. Each collagen‐derived peptide was not significantly correlated with the myocardial expression of their corresponding collagen mRNA.ConclusionsOur study shows that CITP, PIIINP, and P4NP 7S do not reflect myocardial collagen mRNA expression but presumably reflect extra‐cardiac organ injury in heart failure.
Comparative tissue distribution and depuration characteristics of copper nanoparticles and soluble copper in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Lindh Stina , Razmara Parastoo , Bogart Sarah , Pyle Gregory 
Published: October 2018

Abstract

The continuously growing number of products containing nanoparticles (NPs) makes their presence in the environment inevitable, and given the well-known toxicity of dissolved metals, concerns regarding the toxicity of metal-based NPs have been raised. Whether metal-based NPs present similar or different toxicological effects compared with metal salts is an emerging field. In the present study, rainbow trout were intraperitoneally injected with CuSO4 or copper NPs (CuNPs) to investigate tissue distribution and depuration characteristics. Fish injected with Cu showed an initial accumulation of Cu in the liver, kidney, gills, intestine, and carcass. The Cu concentration in the liver of CuNP-injected fish increased over time. It appears as though CuNPs accumulated in the liver at a greater rate than they were excreted. In livers of fish injected with CuSO4, the Cu concentration appeared to increase and reach an equilibrium, suggesting that copper was accumulated and excreted at the same rate. The possibility that CuNPs can accumulate at a higher rate than it is excreted in the liver warrants further investigation. The present study demonstrates the possibility of dietary uptake of CuNPs because elevated Cu concentrations were observed in carcass, gills, kidney, and intestine of fish gavaged with CuNPs. In conclusion, the results suggest that dietary CuNPs are taken up by the gut and preferentially accumulate in the liver. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:80–89. © 2018 SETAC
Abstract
It appears as though copper nanoparticles accumulated in the liver at a greater rate than they were excreted. In livers of fish injected with CuSO4, the Cu concentration appeared to increase and reach an equilibrium, suggesting that Cu was accumulated and excreted at the same rate. CuNP = copper nanoparticle.
Development of a water‐permeable annular gap fill for single‐shell drained segmental linings
Authors: Thienert Christian , Leismann Frank , Edelhoff Dennis , Valentini Heiko , Hörlein Norbert , Kleen Eugen 
Published: October 2018

AbstractNowadays, tunnels with single‐shell segmental lining are often constructed pressure‐tight using gaskets. The economic application limit of this construction type is about 50 metres head of water. If the water pressure exceeds this value, considerably more complex – and thus more expensive – two‐shell construction with an additional drainage layer between the inner and the outer lining is required. To extend the field of application of mechanized tunnelling with single shell lining in mid‐mountain formations, an innovative approach was developed based on the application of a drainage layer in the annular gap fill with a water permeability kF >10–4 m/s. The basic idea of the newly developed water‐permeable material for annular gap grouting is the use of a foam generator without a disturbing body, which foams the cement suspension in a defined way with sufficient compressive strength. Complex interrelations of material, process engineering and construction had to be considered comprehensively. The overall suitability of the developed process has been demonstrated in an extensive experimental program including field tests. The present paper focuses on the development of the construction material.
Semmering Base Tunnel – Geotechnical models in design and construction
Authors: Lenz Gerold , Poisel Alexander , Brandtner Markus , Goricki Andreas , Wagner Oliver K. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe article describes the fundamental geotechnical model assumptions in the design phase of the Semmering Base Tunnel. Two selected case studies show the verification of the geotechnical model during tunnel construction. The verification process is essentially based on geotechnical monitoring in combination with specific back analyses. It is shown that particularly in complex geotechnical conditions, such as deep tunnels in weak rock mass, the designer can only assess a range of expected behaviour. Most information about system behaviour and thus about the geotechnical model conceptions can only be gained during construction. An improved understanding of the geotechnical model provides the potential to identify and minimize geotechnical risks earlier and to adapt excavation and support measures to the actual conditions.
Tunnel pre‐support using pipe umbrellas – Technical developments and their advantages
Authors: Volkmann Günther M. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractPipe umbrella support systems have been used successfully for tunnelling in challenging ground conditions since the 1970s. The single umbrella pipes are installed stepwise and parallel to the later installed saw‐tooth shaped primary lining by connecting pipe pieces to each other. The connections are the weakest link of the support system, so recent developments in this field also have an effect on system performance. The development of both machinery and connection types have a major influence on pipe umbrella design for tunnelling. This includes not only simple parameters like installation length or tube dimension but also the connection type. So a conventional pipe umbrella design is not as cost‐efficient as current technical possibilities allow, because material as well as time savings are missed. This article explains possible optimisations for pipe umbrella supported tunnels with simple examples to show cost‐optimised design principles regarding time and material.
Semmering Base Tunnel – Design and construction of the shaft head caverns under difficult conditions
Authors: Wieland Gerd , Prall Karoline , Lenz Gerold , Schachinger Tobias , Gobiet Gerhard 
Published: October 2018

AbstractIn contract SBT1.1 of the Semmering Base Tunnel, the single‐track main tunnels are being driven from the portal in Gloggnitz and from a temporary intermediate starting point in Göstritz. The temporary intermediate starting point in Göstritz is being constructed in order to reduce the risk to the tunnel construction time for the Graßberg‐Schlagl fault system. During the construction phase, the contractor developed optimisations of the planned logistics concept for the intermediate access point in Göstritz, which led to a redesign of the shaft head cavern system. Shortly before the excavation of the shaft head cavern, an unexpected and geotechnically relevant fault zone was encountered in the access tunnel. In order to investigate the geological situation in the area of the shaft head, extensive additional investigation measures were carried out. Due to the updated geological forecast, the layout of the shaft head cavern and the support concept had to be changed. Thanks to the measures taken, the shaft head cavern system cold be successfully excavate without any damage to the support.
The use of TBM process data as a normative basis of the contractual advance classification for TBM advances in hard rock
Authors: Bach Dietmar , Holzer Wolfgang , Leitner Wolfgang , Radončić Nedim 
Published: October 2018

AbstractIn April 2016 a newly formed working group began with the revision of the Austrian standard ÖNORM B 2203‐2. The goal of the group was the establishment of a practicable advance classification scheme, which would be applicable both for the design and for the construction phase. In addition, a clear separation should be established between a regular advance, which is clearly described and can be calculated by the bidding contractor, and a ”hindered advance“, which cannot clearly be described and calculated. The contractual framework is used to compensate for the regular advance, and hindering occurrences such as water ingress or increased wear are compensated by additional contractual time‐dependent costs. Fair compensation regulations for hindered advance (such as an advance through blocky rock mass, mixed face conditions, swelling, squeezing ground, major face instabilities, increased adhesion and stickiness of muck, obstacles and suspension losses) are to be defined as well. The method presented in this paper and based on systematic TBM data evaluation achieves both the goal of contractual advance classification and the goal of establishing a simple threshold differentiating regular advance and hindered advance.
New testing method for the prediction of the dispersion of soil in slurry shield tunnelling
Authors: Weiner Thorsten , Thewes Markus 
Published: October 2018

AbstractIn this contribution, we present a new testing method for the prediction of the dispersion of soil in slurry shield tunnelling. It is based on the proven slake durability test equipment but differs substantially regarding the procedure for testing and evaluation. With the results, a substantial data analysis was conducted searching for correlations with typical characteristic soil parameters. For the first time in tunnelling practice, the test enables a qualitative assessment and therefore a prognosis of the expected dispersion based on quantitative values determined in a traceable and reproducible testing method. In addition the test allows for an estimation of the dispersion tendency based on figures for the plasticity and consistency, which are usually collected anyway in the preliminary stages of a tunnelling project. Contractual recommendations are also provided concerning the topic of dispersion.
A cost‐effectiveness threshold based on the marginal returns of cardiovascular hospital spending
Authors: van Baal Pieter , Perry‐Duxbury Meg , Bakx Pieter , Versteegh Matthijs , van Doorslaer Eddy , Brouwer Werner 
Published: October 2018

AbstractTraditionally, threshold levels of cost‐effectiveness have been derived from willingness‐to‐pay studies, indicating the consumption value of health (v‐thresholds). However, it has been argued that v‐thresholds need to be supplemented by so‐called k‐thresholds, which are based on the marginal returns to health care. The objective of this research is to estimate a k‐threshold based on the marginal returns to cardiovascular disease (CVD) hospital care in the Netherlands. To estimate a k‐threshold for hospital care on CVD, we proceed in two steps: First, we estimate the impact of hospital spending on mortality using a Bayesian regression modelling framework, using data on CVD mortality and CVD hospital spending by age and gender for the period 1994–2010. Second, we use life tables in combination with quality of life data to convert these estimates into a k‐threshold expressed in euros per quality‐adjusted life year gained. Our base case estimate resulted in an estimate of 41,000 per quality‐adjusted life year gained. In our sensitivity analyses, we illustrated how the incorporation of prior evidence into the estimation pushes estimates downwards. We conclude that our base case estimate of the k‐threshold may serve as a benchmark value for decision making in the Netherlands as well as for future research regarding k‐thresholds.
A healthy weight improves life satisfaction
Authors: Habibov Nazim , Auchynnikava Alena , Luo Rong , Fan Lida 
Published: October 2018

SummaryIn this study, we examine the effects of having a healthy weight in form of a healthy body mass index (BMI) on life satisfaction using the data from a diverse sample of 27 post‐communist transitional countries. We find that a healthy BMI significantly raises life satisfaction, while an increase in BMI reduces life satisfaction. We also find that the positive effect of a healthy BMI on life satisfaction substantially diminishes as the political and economic situation improves. Equally, the positive effect of healthy BMI on life satisfaction is considerably lower for those who exhibit higher levels of institutional trust and express trust in government, parliament, and political parties. Classic regression models such as ordinary least squares (OLS) and ordered probit significantly underestimate the true effect of healthy BMI on life satisfaction. Such results suggest that unobserved confounders, measurement error, or their interplay appear to be the main source (s) of bias that eventually lead to a significant underestimation of the true effect of BMI on life satisfaction through classic regression models.
Comparison of polyglycolic acid, polycaprolactone, and collagen as scaffolds for the production of tissue engineered intestine
Authors: Liu Yanchun , Nelson Tyler , Chakroff Jason , Cromeens Barrett , Johnson Jed , Lannutti John , Besner Gail E. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractCell‐seeded scaffolds play critical roles in the production of tissue engineered intestine (TEI), a potential strategy for the treatment of short bowel syndrome. The current study compares polyglycolic acid (PGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and collagen as scaffolds for TEI production. Tubular PGA scaffolds were prepared from nonwoven BIOFELT®. Tubular PCL scaffolds were fabricated by electrospinning. Tubular collagen scaffolds were prepared using CollaTape, a wound dressing material. Both PGA and collagen were coated with poly‐l‐lactic acid (PLLA) to improve scaffold mechanical properties. Pore size, porosity, microstructure, mechanical properties (suture retention strength and ultimate compressive force) were determined. The scaffolds were first seeded with crypt stem cells isolated from 1 to 3 day old rat pups and then implanted into the peritoneal cavity of nude rats. After 4 weeks ofin vivoincubation, these cell‐seeded scaffolds were harvested for assessment of the TEI produced. Of the three materials compared, PLLA coated tubular PGA scaffolds had the appropriate pore size, mechanical properties and degradation rate leading to the production of TEI with an architecture similar to that of native rat intestine. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Biomed. Mater. Res. Part B, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 750–760, 2019.
An on‐site preparable, novel bone‐grafting complex consisting of human platelet‐rich fibrin and porous particles made of a recombinant collagen‐like protein
Authors: Tsukioka Tsuneyuki , Hiratsuka Takahiro , Nakamura Masayuki , Watanabe Taisuke , Kitamura Yutaka , Isobe Kazushige , Okudera Toshimitsu , Okudera Hajime , Azuma Akihiko , Uematsu Kohya , Nakata Koh , Kawase Tomoyuki 
Published: October 2018

AbstractPlatelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) is widely used in regenerative medicine. Nonetheless, major issues include its controversial effects on bone regeneration and a lack of quality‐assured glass tubes required for coagulation. We used porous particles (FBG) comprising a recombinant RGD motif‐enriched collagen I‐like protein to activate the coagulation pathway and examined the effects of the resulting PRF–FBG complex on bone regeneration. Human whole‐blood samples were mixed with FBG in plastic tubes and centrifuged to prepare a PRF–FBG complex. Platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB) levels and cell growth activity were determined by ELISA and a bioassay using osteoblasts. Bone regenerative activity was assessed using a mouse model of calvarial bone defect. FBG facilitated PRF‐like matrix formation during centrifugation. In this PRF–FBG complex, the microstructure of fibrin fibers was similar to that of PRF prepared conventionally in glass tubes. PDGF‐BB levels and mitogenic action were not significantly influenced by FBG. In the bone defect model, although PRF did not exert any significant positive effects on its own, in combination with FBG, it synergistically stimulated new bone formation. This study demonstrated that incorporation of FBG into whole‐blood samples induces PRF formation without the aid of glass tubes. The resulting PRF–FBG complex could be a promising bone grafting material in clinical settings. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterials published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1420–1430, 2019.
p‐Hydroxybenzyl alcohol inhibits four obesity‐related enzymes in vitro
Authors: Choi Jun‐Hui , Yeo Soo‐Hwan , Kim Myung‐Kon , Lee Hyo‐Jeong , Kim Seung 
Published: October 2018

AbstractRecently, antiobesity studies using the method of inhibiting enzymatic activity of obesity‐related enzymes as targets have received considerable attention. The aims of the current study were to investigate whether p‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol (HBA), identified from Cudrania tricuspidata fruits with antiobesity effects, inhibits the activity of digestive and obesity‐related enzymes and acts as an inhibitor against four target enzymes in kinetic studies. In vitro enzyme assays showed HBA at the highest concentration significantly reduced the enzymatic activity of four targets: pancreatic lipase (IC50 = 2.34‐3.70 μM), α‐glycosidase (IC50 = 9.08 μM), phosphodiesterase IV (IC50 = 4.99 μM), and citrate synthase (IC50 = 2.07 μM) enzymes. Based on the results of kinetic assays, the types of inhibition were investigated. Our findings indicate that HBA could have antiobesity efficacy, and it deserves further study.
Salidroside attenuates interleukin‐1β‐induced inflammation in human osteoarthritis chondrocytes
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhao Qing 
Published: October 2018

AbstractSalidroside, a bioactive constituent isolated from Rhodiola rosea, has been reported to have anti‐inflammatory effects. However, the effects of salidroside on interleukin (IL)‐1β‐stimulated osteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes remain to be elucidated. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory effects of salidroside on IL‐1β‐stimulated human OA chondrocytes and explore its underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that salidroside significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E‐2, as well as suppressed the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase‐2 in IL‐1β‐stimulated chondrocytes (
P < .05). In addition, salidroside also suppressed IL‐1β‐induced matrix metalloproteinases production in human OA chondrocytes (
P < .05). Furthermore, pretreatment with salidroside prevented IL‐1β‐induced NF‐κB activation in OA chondrocytes (
P < .05). In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that salidroside inhibited the IL‐1β‐induced inflammatory response in OA chondrocytes via inhibition of NF‐κB activation.
Dual‐specificity phosphatase 6 deletion protects the colonic epithelium against inflammation and promotes both proliferation and tumorigenesis
Authors: Beaudry Katia , Langlois Marie‐Josée , Montagne Amélie , Cagnol Sébastien , Carrier Julie C. , Rivard Nathalie 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway controls fundamental cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. The dual‐specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) regulates cytoplasmic MAPK signaling by dephosphorylating and inactivating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2) MAPK. To determine the role of DUSP6 in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, we characterized the intestinal epithelial phenotype of
Dusp6 knockout (KO) mice under normal, oncogenic, and proinflammatory conditions. Our results show that loss of Dusp6 increased crypt depth and epithelial cell proliferation without altering colonic architecture. Crypt regeneration capacity was also enhanced, as revealed by ex vivo
Dusp6 KO organoid cultures. Additionally, loss of Dusp6 induced goblet cell expansion without affecting enteroendocrine and absorptive cell differentiation. Our data also demonstrate that
Dusp6 KO mice were protected from acute dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis, as opposed to wild‐type mice. In addition,
Dusp6 gene deletion markedly enhanced tumor load in
Apc
Min/+ mice. Decreased DUSP6 expression by RNA interference in HT29 colorectal cancer cells enhanced ERK1/2 activation levels and promoted both anchorage‐independent growth in soft agar as well as invasion through Matrigel. Finally,
DUSP6 mRNA expression in human colorectal tumors was decreased in advanced stage tumors compared with paired normal tissues. These results demonstrate that DUSP6 phosphatase, by controlling ERK1/2 activation, regulates colonic inflammatory responses, and protects the intestinal epithelium against oncogenic stress.