bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproduction Indicators Related to Litter Size and Reproduction Cycle Length Among Sows of Breeds Considered Maternal and Paternal Components Kept on Medium-Size Farms
Authors: Nowak Błażej , Mucha Anna , Moska Magdalena , Kruszyński Wojciech
Published: July 2020

The present research aimed to study twelve reproductive indicators related to litter size and the farrowing interval for three maternal (Polish Large White, Polish Landrace, and Yorkshire) and three paternal (Duroc, Berkshire, Hampshire) breeds, raised on two farms in Poland and a farm in the United States. The study included 196 sows (45 Polish Large White, 37 Polish Landrace, 26 Berkshire, 33 Duroc, 40 Yorkshire, and 15 Hampshire), which altogether gave birth to 736 litters. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to verify the influence of the breed on the reproductive traits, with a post-hoc procedure for pairwise comparisons implemented in the pgirmes of R. The adegenet, ade4, and factoextra packages of R were used to conduct multivariate analysis of the traits by means of principal component analysis. The breed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced the following traits related to litter size: the total number of piglets born per litter, the number and percentage of piglets born alive per litter, the percentage of stillborn piglets per litter, the number and percentage of weaned piglets per litter; and those related to the farrowing interval: the lengths of gestation, lactation, the farrowing-to-conception interval, and the farrowing interval. The breed did not statistically significantly influence the number of stillborn piglets per litter and the length of the weaning-to-conception interval. Polish Landrace and Polish Large White sows had the highest numbers of born (for both, the mean of 14.0), born alive (12.9 and 12.7), and weaned piglets (11.5 and 10.5), which statistically significantly differed from these parameters in the other breeds. Polish Landrace sows significantly differed from all the other breeds in terms of the percentage of weaned piglets (84.1%), while Berkshire sows in terms of gestation length (118.4 days).
Wintertime Greenhouse Gas Fluxes in Hemiboreal Drained Peatlands
Authors: Viru Birgit , Veber Gert , Jaagus Jaak , Kull Ain , Maddison Martin , Muhel Mart , Espenberg Mikk , Teemusk Alar , Mander Ülo
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study is to estimate wintertime emissions of greenhouse gases CO2, N2O and CH4 in two abandoned peat extraction areas (APEA), Ess-soo and Laiuse, and in two Oxalis site-type drained peatland forests (DPF) on nitrogen-rich sapric histosol, a Norway spruce and a Downy birch forest, located in eastern Estonia. According to the long-term study using a closed chamber method, the APEAs emitted less CO2 and N2O, and more CH4 than the DPFs. Across the study sites, CO2 flux correlated positively with soil, ground and air temperatures. Continuous snow depth > 5 cm did not influence CO2, but at no snow or a thin snow layer the fluxes varied on a large scale (from −1.1 to 106 mg C m−2 h−1). In all sites, the highest N2O fluxes were observed at a water table depth of −30 to −40 cm. CH4 was consumed in the DPFs and was always emitted from the APEAs, whereas the highest flux appeared at a water table >20 cm above the surface. Considering the global warming potential (GWP) of the greenhouse gas emissions from the DPFs in the wintertime, the flux of N2O was the main component of warming, showing 3–6 times higher radiative forcing values than that of CO2 flux, while the role of CH4 was unimportant. In the APEAs, CO2 and CH4 made up almost equal parts, whereas the impact of N2O on GWP was minor.
Classification of Clouds Sampled at the Puy de Dôme Station (France) Based on Chemical Measurements and Air Mass History Matrices
Authors: Renard Pascal , Bianco Angelica , Baray Jean-Luc , Bridoux Maxime , Delort Anne-Marie , Deguillaume Laurent
Published: July 2020

A statistical analysis of 295 cloud samples collected at the Puy de Dôme station in France (PUY), covering the period 2001–2018, was conducted using principal component analysis (PCA), agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC), and partial least squares (PLS) regression. Our model classified the cloud water samples on the basis of their chemical concentrations and of the dynamical history of their air masses estimated with back-trajectory calculations. The statistical analysis split our dataset into two sets, i.e., the first set characterized by westerly air masses and marine characteristics, with high concentrations of sea salts and the second set having air masses originating from the northeastern sector and the “continental” zone, with high concentrations of potentially anthropogenic ions. It appears from our dataset that the influence of cloud microphysics remains minor at PUY as compared with the impact of the air mass history, i.e., physicochemical processes, such as multiphase reactivity.
Mechanisms of Androgen Receptor Agonist- and Antagonist-Mediated Cellular Senescence in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kokal Miriam , Mirzakhani Kimia , Pungsrinont Thanakorn , Baniahmad Aria
Published: July 2020

The androgen receptor (AR) plays a leading role in the control of prostate cancer (PCa) growth. Interestingly, structurally different AR antagonists with distinct mechanisms of antagonism induce cell senescence, a mechanism that inhibits cell cycle progression, and thus seems to be a key cellular response for the treatment of PCa. Surprisingly, while physiological levels of androgens promote growth, supraphysiological androgen levels (SAL) inhibit PCa growth in an AR-dependent manner by inducing cell senescence in cancer cells. Thus, oppositional acting ligands, AR antagonists, and agonists are able to induce cellular senescence in PCa cells, as shown in cell culture model as well as ex vivo in patient tumor samples. This suggests a dual AR-signaling dependent on androgen levels that leads to the paradox of the rational to keep the AR constantly inactivated in order to treat PCa. These observations however opened the option to treat PCa patients with AR antagonists and/or with androgens at supraphysiological levels. The latter is currently used in clinical trials in so-called bipolar androgen therapy (BAT). Notably, cellular senescence is induced by AR antagonists or agonist in both androgen-dependent and castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). Pathway analysis suggests a crosstalk between AR and the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Src-Akt/PKB and the PI3K-mTOR-autophagy signaling in mediating AR-induced cellular senescence in PCa. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of therapeutic induction and intracellular pathways of AR-mediated cellular senescence.
A Concise Paradigm on Radical Hysterectomy: The Comprehensive Anatomy of Parametrium, Paracolpium and the Pelvic Autonomic Nerve System and Its Surgical Implication
Authors: Muallem Mustafa Zelal , Jöns Thomas , Seidel Nadja , Sehouli Jalid , Diab Yasser , Querleu Denis
Published: July 2020

The current understanding of radical hysterectomy is more centered on the uterus and little is discussed regarding the resection of the vaginal cuff and the paracolpium as an essential part of this procedure. The anatomic dissections of two fresh and 17 formalin-fixed female pelvis cadavers were utilized to understand and decipher the anatomy of the pelvic autonomic nerve system (PANS) and its connections to the surrounding anatomical structures, especially the paracolpium. The study mandates the recognition of the three-dimensional (3D) anatomic template of the parametrium and paracolpium and provides herewith an enhanced scope during a nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy procedure by precise description of the paracolpium and its close anatomical relationships to the components of the PANS. This enables the medical fraternity to distinguish between direct infiltration of the paracolpium, where the nerve sparing technique is no longer possible, and the affected lymph node in the paracolpium, where nerve sparing is still an option. This study gives rise to a tailored surgical option that allows for abandoning the resection of the paracolpium by FIGO stage IB1, where less than 2 cm vaginal vault resection is demanded.
Correlation of MET and PD-L1 Expression in Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Song Kyu Young , Desar Sabina , Pengo Thomas , Shanley Ryan , Giubellino Alessio
Published: July 2020

The proto-oncogene MET, the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor, is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) with a prominent role in tumor metastasis and resistance to anti-cancer therapies. Melanoma demonstrates relatively frequent MET aberrations, including MET gene amplification. Concurrently, programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), with its ability to evade anti-tumor immune responses, has emerged as a prominent therapeutic target in melanoma and other malignancies and its expression is used as a predictive biomarker of response to immunotherapy. We performed immunohistochemistry analysis of MET and PD-L1 in 18 human melanoma cell lines derived from both primary and metastatic lesions, and in a human melanoma tissue microarray containing one hundreds melanocytic lesions, including primary cutaneous melanomas, primary mucosal melanomas, metastatic melanomas and benign melanocytic nevi as controls. After color deconvolution, each core was segmented to isolate staining and calculate the percentage of positive cells. Overall, MET expression was higher in tumors with increased PD-L1 expression. Moreover, a robust correlation between MET and PD-L1 expression was found in samples from metastatic melanoma and not in primary cutaneous or mucosal melanoma. These data suggest that relative expression levels of these proteins in combination is a marker of advanced disease and testing for expression of these markers should be considered in patients with melanoma.
The Role of Dysfunctional Adipose Tissue in Pancreatic Cancer: A Molecular Perspective
Authors: Brocco Davide , Florio Rosalba , De Lellis Laura , Veschi Serena , Grassadonia Antonino , Tinari Nicola , Cama Alessandro
Published: July 2020

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a lethal malignancy with rising incidence and limited therapeutic options. Obesity is a well-established risk factor for PC development. Moreover, it negatively affects outcome in PC patients. Excessive fat accumulation in obese, over- and normal-weight individuals induces metabolic and inflammatory changes of adipose tissue microenvironment leading to a dysfunctional adipose “organ”. This may drive the association between abnormal fat accumulation and pancreatic cancer. In this review, we describe several molecular mechanisms that underpin this association at both local and systemic levels. We focus on the role of adipose tissue-derived circulating factors including adipokines, hormones and pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as on the impact of the local adipose tissue in promoting PC. A discussion on potential therapeutic interventions, interfering with pro-tumorigenic effects of dysfunctional adipose tissue in PC, is included. Considering the raise of global obesity, research efforts to uncover the molecular basis of the relationship between pancreatic cancer and adipose tissue dysfunction may provide novel insights for the prevention of this deadly disease. In addition, these efforts may uncover novel targets for personalized interventional strategies aimed at improving the currently unsatisfactory PC therapeutic options.
Calcium-Sensing Receptor and Regulation of WNK Kinases in the Kidney
Authors: Ostroverkhova Daria S. , Hu Junda , Tarasov Vadim V. , Melnikova Tatiana I. , Porozov Yuri B. , Mutig Kerim
Published: July 2020

The kidney is essential for systemic calcium homeostasis. Urinary calcium excretion can be viewed as an integrative renal response to endocrine and local stimuli. The extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) elicits a number of adaptive reactions to increased plasma Ca2+ levels including the control of parathyroid hormone release and regulation of the renal calcium handling. Calcium reabsorption in the distal nephron of the kidney is functionally coupled to sodium transport. Apart from Ca2+ transport systems, CaSR signaling affects relevant distal Na+-(K+)-2Cl− cotransporters, NKCC2 and NCC. NKCC2 and NCC are activated by a kinase cascade comprising with-no-lysine [K] kinases (WNKs) and two homologous Ste20-related kinases, SPAK and OSR1. Gain-of-function mutations within the WNK-SPAK/OSR1-NKCC2/NCC pathway lead to renal salt retention and hypertension, whereas loss-of-function mutations have been associated with salt-losing tubulopathies such as Bartter or Gitelman syndromes. A Bartter-like syndrome has been also described in patients carrying gain-of-function mutations in the CaSR gene. Recent work suggested that CaSR signals via the WNK-SPAK/OSR1 cascade to modulate salt reabsorption along the distal nephron. The review presented here summarizes the latest progress in understanding of functional interactions between CaSR and WNKs and their potential impact on the renal salt handling and blood pressure.
Interplay between Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Development—A Focus on Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Samoilă Iuliana , Dinescu Sorina , Costache Marieta
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are defined by the continuous inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. During inflammation, the number of pathogens in the intestinal epithelium increases, leading to inflammasome assembly. Inflammasome activation is meant to protect the intestinal epithelial barrier from further damage by maintaining homeostasis. Although its purpose is to protect the cells, excessive nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome assembly is responsible for the synthesis of a high number of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The activation of two crucial pathways, autophagy process, and unfolded protein response, is initiated for restoring homeostasis. Aberrant expression of miRNAs and lncRNAs also interfere with the pathogenic mechanisms of IBD, as these non-coding transcripts play key roles in regulation of biological processes, such as inflammation and immunity. This review thoroughly describes the cellular and molecular mechanism that trigger and perpetuate inflammation in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients.
The Janus Face of p53-Targeting Ubiquitin Ligases
Authors: Hao Qian , Chen Yajie , Zhou Xiang
Published: July 2020

The tumor suppressor p53 prevents tumorigenesis and cancer progression by maintaining genomic stability and inducing cell growth arrest and apoptosis. Because of the extremely detrimental nature of wild-type p53, cancer cells usually mutate the TP53 gene in favor of their survival and propagation. Some of the mutant p53 proteins not only lose the wild-type activity, but also acquire oncogenic function, namely “gain-of-function”, to promote cancer development. Growing evidence has revealed that various E3 ubiquitin ligases are able to target both wild-type and mutant p53 for degradation or inactivation, and thus play divergent roles leading to cancer cell survival or death in the context of different p53 status. In this essay, we reviewed the recent progress in our understanding of the p53-targeting E3 ubiquitin ligases, and discussed the potential clinical implications of these E3 ubiquitin ligases in cancer therapy.
High Mobility Group Box 1 in Human Cancer
Authors: Rapoport Bernardo L. , Steel Helen C. , Theron Annette J. , Heyman Liezl , Smit Teresa , Ramdas Yastira , Anderson Ronald
Published: July 2020

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is an extremely versatile protein that is located predominantly in the nucleus of quiescent eukaryotic cells, where it is critically involved in maintaining genomic structure and function. During cellular stress, however, this multifaceted, cytokine-like protein undergoes posttranslational modifications that promote its translocation to the cytosol, from where it is released extracellularly, either actively or passively, according to cell type and stressor. In the extracellular milieu, HMGB1 triggers innate inflammatory responses that may be beneficial or harmful, depending on the magnitude and duration of release of this pro-inflammatory protein at sites of tissue injury. Heightened awareness of the potentially harmful activities of HMGB1, together with a considerable body of innovative, recent research, have revealed that excessive production of HMGB1, resulting from misdirected, chronic inflammatory responses, appears to contribute to all the stages of tumorigenesis. In the setting of established cancers, the production of HMGB1 by tumor cells per se may also exacerbate inflammation-related immunosuppression. These pro-inflammatory mechanisms of HMGB1-orchestrated tumorigenesis, as well as the prognostic potential of detection of elevated expression of this protein in the tumor microenvironment, represent the major thrusts of this review.
Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on the Melting Behavior, Isothermal Crystallization Kinetics and Morphology of Polyoxymethylene
Authors: Zeng Yicheng , Liu Yang , Zhang Xun , Wang Lumin , Huang Hongliang , Liu Yongli , Qi Guangrui , Min Minghua , Li Ying
Published: July 2020

In this work, the effects of silver (Ag) nanoparticles on the melting behavior, isothermal crystallization kinetics, and morphology of polyoxymethylene (POM) were studied. It was found that the melting peak temperature (Tm) and the crystallization temperature (TC) of POM/Ag nanocomposites shifted to higher temperature with the content of Ag nanoparticles increased. In addition, the isothermal crystallization kinetics of POM/Ag nanocomposites were determined by Avrami and Lauritzen-Hoffman models. The results of crystallization half-time (t0.5), reciprocal of crystallization half-time (τ0.5), Avrami exponent (n), and Avrami rate constant (k) showed that low loading of Ag nanoparticles (≤1 wt%) accelerated the crystallization rate of POM. However, when the content of Ag nanoparticles reached 2 wt%, they aggregated together and restrained crystallization of POM. Meanwhile, the results of nucleation parameter (Kg) and surface free energy of folding (δe) revealed that Ag nanoparticles reduced the energy need to create a new crystal surface, leading to faster crystallization. Moreover, the crystallization activation energies (∆E) were determined using the Arrhenius model, which suggested that Ag nanoparticles induced the heterogeneous nucleation by lowing the ∆E. Furthermore, polarized light microscopy results indicated Ag nanoparticles generated a great amount of nucleation sites and led to the formation of smaller spherulites.
Pressure-Induced Phase Transformations
Authors: Errandonea Daniel
Published: July 2020

The study of phase transitions in solids under high pressure conditions is a very active and vigorous research field [...]
Carbon Nanotube Detectors and Spectrometers for the Terahertz Range
Authors: Park Junsung , Liu Xueqing , Ytterdal Trond , Shur Michael
Published: July 2020

We present the compact unified charge control model (UCCM) for carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) to enable the accurate simulation of the DC characteristics and plasmonic terahertz (THz) response in the CNTFETs. Accounting for the ambipolar nature of the carrier transport (n-type and p-type conductivity at positive and negative gate biases, respectively), we use n-type and p-type CNTFET non-linear equivalent circuits connected in parallel, representing the ambipolar conduction in the CNTFETs. This allows us to present a realistic non-linear model that is valid across the entire voltage range and is therefore suitable for the CNTFET design. The important feature of the model is that explicit equations for gate bias, current, mobility, and capacitance with smoothing parameters accurately describe the device operation near the transition from above- to below-threshold regimes, with scalability in device geometry. The DC performance in the proposed compact CNTFET model is validated by the comparison between the SPICE simulation and the experimental DC characteristics. The simulated THz response resulted from the validated CNTFET model is found to be in good agreement with the analytically calculated response and also reveals the bias and power dependent sub-THz response and relatively wide dynamic range for detection that could be suitable for THz detectors. The operation of CNTFET spectrometers in the THz frequency range is further demonstrated using the present model. The simulation exhibits that the CNT-based spectrometers can cover a broad THz frequency band from 0.1 to 3.08 THz. The model that has been incorporated into the circuit simulators enables the accurate assessment of DC performance and THz operation. Therefore, it can be used for the design and performance estimation of the CNTFETs and their integrated circuits operating in the THz regime.
Seasonal and Agricultural Response of Acidobacteria Present in Two Fynbos Rhizosphere Soils
Authors: Conradie Tersia , Jacobs Karin
Published: July 2020

The Acidobacteria is one of the most abundant phyla in most soil types. Fynbos plants are endemic to South Africa, and these soils provide the ideal habitat for Acidobacteria, because of its low pH and oligotrophic properties. However, little is known about their distribution in the fynbos biome and the impact of cultivation of plants on Acidobacterial diversity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of seasonal changes and cultivation on the relative abundance and diversity of Acidobacteria associated with Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) and Cyclopia spp. (honeybush). This study was based on rhizosphere soil. A total of 32 and 31 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified for honeybush and rooibos, respectively. The majority of these were classified as representatives of subdivisions 1, 2, 3, and 10. Significant differences in community compositions were observed between seasons for both honeybush and rooibos, as well as between the cultivated and uncultivated honeybush. Acidobacteria had a significantly positive correlation with pH, C, Ca2+, and P. In this study, we have shown the effect of seasonal changes, in summer and winter, and cultivation farming on the relative abundance and diversity of Acidobacteria present in the soil of rooibos and honeybush.
Optimal Testing Locations in Geotechnical Site Investigations through the Application of a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Crisp Michael P. , Jaksa Mark , Kuo Yien
Published: July 2020

Geotechnical site investigations are an essential prerequisite for reliable foundation designs. However, there is relatively little quantitative guidance for planning optimal investigations, including the choice of testing location. This study uses a genetic algorithm to find the ideal testing locations of various numbers of boreholes with respect to pile foundation performance. The optimization has been done separately for single-layer and multi-layer soils, which infer what is best for obtaining soil material properties and delineating layer boundaries, respectively. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to find the genetic algorithm parameters that result in high quality solutions within a reasonable timeframe. While boreholes arranged in a regular grid pattern provide good performance in many cases, there are instances where optimized locations provide a cost saving of A$2 million, or 4.2% of the construction cost. A set of recommended testing guidelines is provided.
A 3D Geological Model as a Base for the Development of a Conceptual Groundwater Scheme in the Area of the Colosseum (Rome, Italy)
Authors: Di Salvo Cristina , Mancini Marco , Cavinato Gian Paolo , Moscatelli Massimiliano , Simionato Maurizio , Stigliano Francesco , Rea Rossella , Rodi Antonio
Published: July 2020

Geological models are very useful tools for developing conceptual schemes owing to their capacity to optimize the management of stratigraphic information. This is particularly true in areas where archaeological heritage is exposed to hydrogeological hazards; 3D models can constitute the first step toward the construction of numerical models created to understand processes and plan mitigation actions to improve visitor safety and preserve archaeological heritage. This paper illustrates the results of a 3D hydrostratigraphic model of the site of the Colosseum in the Central Archaeological Area of Rome. In recent years, this area has experienced numerous floods caused by intense meteorological events. A new borehole survey provided the opportunity to update previous maps and cross sections and build a local scale 3D model. The resulting conceptual model was used to identify primary gaps in existing knowledge about the groundwater system and to optimize the planning of a piezometer monitoring network. Further studies can then focus on the development of groundwater numerical models to verify hypotheses regarding inflow-outflow dynamics and facilitate the optimization of water management.
Prediction Framework with Kalman Filter Algorithm
Authors: Peksa Janis
Published: July 2020

The article describes the autonomous open data prediction framework, which is in its infancy and is designed to automate predictions with a variety of data sources that are mostly external. The framework has been implemented with the Kalman filter approach, and an experiment with road maintenance weather station data is being performed. The framework was written in Python programming language; the frame is published on GitHub with all currently available results. The experiment is performed with 34 weather station data, which are time-series data, and the specific measurements that are predicted are dew points. The framework is published as a Web service to be able to integrate with ERP systems and be able to be reusable.
Editorial for the Special Issue on “Digital Humanities”
Authors: Gonzalez-Perez Cesar
Published: July 2020

Digital humanities are often described in terms of humanistic work being carried out with the aid of digital tools, usually computer-based [...]
Estimating Parameters in Mathematical Model for Societal Booms through Bayesian Inference Approach
Authors: Ota Yasushi , Mizutani Naoki
Published: July 2020

In this study, based on our previous study in which the proposed model is derived based on the SIR model and E. M. Rogers’s Diffusion of Innovation Theory, including the aspects of contact and time delay, we examined the mathematical properties, especially the stability of the equilibrium for our proposed mathematical model. By means of the results of the stability in this study, we also used actual data representing transient and resurgent booms, and conducted parameter estimation for our proposed model using Bayesian inference. In addition, we conducted a model fitting to five actual data. By this study, we reconfirmed that we can express the resurgences or minute oscillations of actual data by means of our proposed model.
Fouling Mechanisms Analysis via Combined Fouling Models for Surface Water Ultrafiltration Process
Authors: Huang Bin , Gu Hangkun , Xiao Kang , Qu Fangshu , Yu Huarong , Wei Chunhai
Published: July 2020

Membrane fouling is still the bottleneck affecting the technical and economic performance of the ultrafiltration (UF) process for the surface water treatment. It is very important to accurately understand fouling mechanisms to effectively prevent and control UF fouling. The rejection performance and fouling mechanisms of the UF membrane for raw and coagulated surface water treatment were investigated under the cycle operation of constant-pressure dead-end filtration and backwash. There was no significant difference in the UF permeate quality of raw and coagulated surface water. Coagulation mainly removed substances causing turbidity in raw surface water (including most suspended particles and a few organic colloids) and thus mitigated UF fouling effectively. Backwash showed limited fouling removal. For the UF process of both raw and coagulated surface water, the fittings using single models showed good linearity for multiple models mainly due to statistical illusions, while the fittings using combined models showed that only the combined complete blocking and cake layer model fitted well. The quantitative calculations showed that complete blocking was the main reason causing flux decline. Membrane fouling mechanism analysis based on combined models could provide theoretical supports to prevent and control UF fouling for surface water treatment.
Tribological Properties of Ti2AlNb Matrix Composites Containing Few-Layer Graphene Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Wang Wei , Han Ziru , Wang Qingjuan , Wei Baojia , Xin Shewei , Gao Yuan
Published: July 2020

Ti2AlNb alloys with few-layer graphene were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) to enhance the tribological properties (TP) of the composite materials. Microstructure characteristics of the original few-layer graphene (FLG), Ti2AlNb powders, and the sintered composites were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. The experimental results indicated that FLGs were homogeneously distributed in the composites. Tribological results indicated that the coefficient of friction (COF) of the composites was reduced as the content of FLG increased. Compared with the pure Ti2AlNb alloy, the average COF of the composite with 1.0 wt.% FLG was decreased by 9.4% and the wear rate was decreased by 36%. Meanwhile, the microstructures of the worn surface showed that TiC particles and friction layers formed by residual FLGs were present on the surface of the composites after tribological test. It is proposed that Ti2AlNb alloys with FLGs presented the enhanced wear resistance.
Marked Degradation of Tensile Properties Induced by Plastic Deformation after Interactions between Strain-Induced Martensite Transformation and Hydrogen for Type 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Nicho Keisuke , Yokoyama Ken’ichi
Published: July 2020

Marked degradation of tensile properties induced by plastic deformation after dynamic interactions between strain-induced martensite transformation and hydrogen has been investigated for type 316L stainless steel by hydrogen thermal desorption analysis. Upon modified hydrogen charging reported previously, the amount of hydrogen desorbed in the low temperature range increases; the degradation of tensile properties induced by interactions between plastic deformation and hydrogen at 25 °C or induced by interactions between martensite transformation and hydrogen at −196 °C occurs even for the stainless steel with high resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. The hydrogen thermal desorption behavior is changed by each interaction, suggesting changes in hydrogen states. For specimen fractured at 25 °C, the facet-like morphology and transgranular fracture are observed on the outer part of the fracture surface. At −196 °C, a quasi-cleave fracture is observed at the initiation area. Modified hydrogen charging significantly interacts both plastic deformation and martensite transformation, eventually enhancing the degradation of tensile properties. Upon plastic deformation at 25° C after the interactions between martensite transformation and hydrogen by straining to 0.2 at −196 °C, cracks nucleate in association with martensite formed by the interactions at −196 °C and marked degradation of tensile properties occurs. It is likely that the interactions between martensite transformation and hydrogen induce damage directly related to the degradation, thereby affecting subsequent deformation. Upon dehydrogenation after the interactions between the martensite transformation and hydrogen, no degradation of tensile properties is observed. The damage induced by the interactions between martensite transformation and hydrogen probably changes to harmless defects during dehydrogenation.
Potential Metabolite Nymphayol Isolated from Water Lily (Nymphaea stellata) Flower Inhibits MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Growth via Upregulation of Cdkn2a, pRb2, p53 and Downregulation of PCNA mRNA Expressions
Authors: Al-Harbi Laila Naif , Subash-Babu Pandurangan , Binobead Manal Abdulaziz , Alhussain Maha Hussain , AlSedairy Sahar Abdulaziz , Aloud Amal A , Alshatwi Ali A
Published: July 2020

Controlled production of cyclin dependent kinases (CDK) and stabilization of tumor suppressor genes are the most important factors involved in preventing carcinogenesis. The present study aimed to explore the cyclin dependent apoptotic effect of nymphayol on breast cancer MCF-7 cells. In our previous study, we isolated the crystal from a chloroform extract of Nymphaea stellata flower petals and it was confirmed as nymphayol (17-(hexan-2-yl)-10,13-dimethylhexadecahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-ol) using x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and mass spectroscopy (MS) methods. The cytotoxic effect of nymphayol on MCF-7 cells were analyzed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The cellular and nuclear damage was determined using propidium iodide (PI) and acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/ErBr) staining. Tumor suppressor and apoptosis related mRNA transcript levels were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Nymphayol potentially inhibits MCF-7 cell viability up to 78%, and the IC50 value was observed as 2.8 µM in 24 h and 1.4 µM in 48 h. Treatment with nymphayol significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and the tunnel assay confirmed DNA damage. We found characteristically 76% apoptotic cells and 9% necrotic cells in PI and AO/ErBr staining after 48 h treatment with 2.8 µM of nymphayol. Gene expression analysis confirmed significantly (p ≤ 0.001) increased mRNA levels of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (Cdkn2a), retinoblastoma protein 2 (pRb2), p53, nuclear factor erythroid 2-factor 2 (Nrf2), caspase-3, and decreased B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), murine double minute 2 (mdm2), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression after 48 h. Nymphayol effectively inhibited breast cancer cell viability, and is associated with early expression of Cdkn2a, pRb2, and activation of p53 and caspases.
Reconstructing of Embedded High-Aspect-Ratio Nano-Voids Generated by Ultrafast Laser Bessel Beams
Authors: Chen Tianqu , Zhang Guodong , Wang Yishan , Li Xuelong , Stoian Razvan , Cheng Guanghua
Published: July 2020

Ultrafast non-diffractive Bessel laser beams provide strong light confinement and show robust advantages for fabricating high-aspect-ratio nanoscale structures inside transparent materials. They take the form of nanoscale voids with typical diameters well below the wavelength and aspect ratio of more than 1000. Delivering 3D morphologies of such nanoscale voids is an important issue to evaluate the result for fabrication. However, the characterization of such laser-induced structures is a difficult task. Here, an accurate and time-saving tomography-like methodology is proposed and adopted for reconstructing the morphology of high-aspect-ratio nano-holes. The technique allows an accurate assertion of laser parameters and position on nano-structured features. The reconstructed configuration reveals that nanoholes morphologies have a close relationship with energy distribution in the focal region. It suggests that the configuration of micro-explosion can be controlled by laser energy deposition in the process of laser-matter interaction down to the nanoscale.
Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems for Enhancing Solubility, Permeability, and Bioavailability of Sesamin
Authors: Wang Chih-Yuan , Yen Ching-Chi , Hsu Mei-Chich , Wu Yu-Tse
Published: July 2020

Sesamin (SSM) is a water-insoluble compound that is easily eliminated by liver metabolism. To improve the solubility and bioavailability of SSM, this study developed and characterized a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for the oral delivery of SSM and conducted pharmacokinetic assessments. Oil and surfactant materials suitable for SNEDDS preparation were selected on the basis of their saturation solubility at 37 ± 0.5 °C. The mixing ratios of excipients were determined on the basis of their dispersibility, transmittance (%), droplet sizes, and polydispersity index. An SNEDDS (F10) formulation comprising glyceryl trioctanoate, polyoxyethylene castor oil, and Tween 20 at a ratio of 10:10:80 (w/w/w) was the optimal formulation. This formulation maintained over 90% of its contents in different storage environments for 12 weeks. After the self-emulsification of SNEDDS, the SSM dispersed droplet size was 66.4 ± 31.4 nm, intestinal permeability increased by more than three-fold, relative bioavailability increased by approximately 12.9-fold, and absolute bioavailability increased from 0.3% to 4.4%. Accordingly, the developed SNEDDS formulation can preserve SSM’s solubility, permeability, and bioavailability. Therefore, this SNEDDS formulation has great potential for the oral administration of SSM, which can enhance its pharmacological application value.
Saccharomyces bayanus Enhances Volatile Profile of Apple Brandies
Authors: Januszek Magdalena , Satora Paweł , Wajda Łukasz , Tarko Tomasz
Published: July 2020

Qualitative and quantitative profiles of volatiles in alcoholic beverages depend mainly on the quality of raw materials, yeasts used for fermentation, and processing technique. Saccharomyces bayanus is a yeast species which is not commonly used for the production of alcoholic beverages, but it is able to produce volatiles that add desirable aroma. Since there is little information regarding the application of that microorganism for the production of apple brandies and how it affects volatile profile of finished products, we decided to address that issue. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of S. bayanus on the profile of volatile compounds and sensory properties of apple spirits obtained from three apple cultivars (Topaz, Rubin, and Elise) in comparison to spirits obtained from fermentation carried out spontaneously or with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Obtained brandies were analysed using gas chromatography–flame ionization detector (GC–FID), solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME–GC–MS) and sensorially. In our study, brandies produced from musts fermented by S. bayanus demonstrated the highest concentration of ethyl esters and increased concentrations of isoamyl acetate, 2-phenylethyl acetate, ethyl palmitate and hexanol. Moreover, our results support the hypothesis that non-Saccharomyces yeasts which are present during spontaneous fermentation and demonstrate higher β-glucosidase activities enhance aroma of alcoholic beverages through releasing aroma compounds from glycosidic forms, e.g., α-phellandrene, (E)-β-fanesene, (Z,E)-α-farnesene, α-farnesene, and farnesol. Considering results obtained in sensory analysis, we proved that S. bayanus is suitable for the production of apple brandies, improving their flavour. Brandies obtained from musts fermented by S. bayanus obtained the highest average range for “overall note” parameter in sensory analysis.
Effects of the Sintering Process on Nacre-Derived Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds for Bone Engineering
Authors: Megat Abdul Wahab Rohaya , Abdullah Nurmimie , Zainal Ariffin Shahrul Hisham , Che Abdullah Che Azurahanim , Yazid Farinawati
Published: July 2020

A hydroxyapatite scaffold is a suitable biomaterial for bone tissue engineering due to its chemical component which mimics native bone. Electronic states which present on the surface of hydroxyapatite have the potential to be used to promote the adsorption or transduction of biomolecules such as protein or DNA. This study aimed to compare the morphology and bioactivity of sinter and nonsinter marine-based hydroxyapatite scaffolds. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and micro-computed tomography (microCT) were used to characterize the morphology of both scaffolds. Scaffolds were co-cultured with 5 × 104/cm2 of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cells for 7, 14, and 21 days. FESEM was used to observe the cell morphology, and MTT and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assays were conducted to determine the cell viability and differentiation capacity of cells on both scaffolds. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) was used to identify the expression of osteoblast markers. The sinter scaffold had a porous microstructure with the presence of interconnected pores as compared with the nonsinter scaffold. This sinter scaffold also significantly supported viability and differentiation of the MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cells (p < 0.05). The marked expression of Col1α1 and osteocalcin (OCN) osteoblast markers were also observed after 14 days of incubation (p < 0.05). The sinter scaffold supported attachment, viability, and differentiation of preosteoblast cells. Hence, sinter hydroxyapatite scaffold from nacreous layer is a promising biomaterial for bone tissue engineering.
Super Secondary Structures of Proteins with Post-Translational Modifications in Colon Cancer
Authors: Tikhonov Dmitry , Kulikova Liudmila , Kopylov Arthur , Malsagova Kristina , Stepanov Alexander , Rudnev Vladimir , Kaysheva Anna
Published: July 2020

New advances in protein post-translational modifications (PTMs) have revealed a complex layer of regulatory mechanisms through which PTMs control cell signaling and metabolic pathways, contributing to the diverse metabolic phenotypes found in cancer. Using conformational templates and the three-dimensional (3D) environment investigation of proteins in patients with colorectal cancer, it was demonstrated that most PTMs (phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination) are localized in the supersecondary structures (helical pairs). We showed that such helical pairs are represented on the outer surface of protein molecules and characterized by a largely accessible area for the surrounding solvent. Most promising and meaningful modifications were observed on the surface of vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP), complement C4-A (CO4A), X-ray repair cross-complementing protein 6 (XRCC6), Plasma protease C1 inhibitor (IC1), and albumin (ALBU), which are related to colorectal cancer developing. Based on the presented data, we propose the impact of the observed modifications in immune response, inflammatory reaction, regulation of cell migration, and promotion of tumor growth. Here, we suggest a computational approach in which high-throughput analysis for identification and characterization of PTM signature, associated with cancer metabolic reprograming, can be improved to prognostic value and bring a new strategy to the targeted therapy.
Synthesis of Medium-Sized Heterocycles by Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization
Authors: Choury Mickael , Basilio Lopes Alexandra , Blond Gaëlle , Gulea Mihaela
Published: July 2020

Medium-sized heterocycles (with 8 to 11 atoms) constitute important structural components of several biologically active natural compounds and represent promising scaffolds in medicinal chemistry. However, they are under-represented in the screening of chemical libraries as a consequence of being difficult to access. In particular, methods involving intramolecular bond formation are challenging due to unfavorable enthalpic and entropic factors, such as transannular interactions and conformational constraints. The present review focuses on the synthesis of medium-sized heterocycles by transition-metal-catalyzed intramolecular cyclization, which despite its drawbacks remains a straightforward and attractive synthesis strategy. The obtained heterocycles differ in their nature, number of heteroatoms, and ring size. The methods are classified according to the metal used (palladium, copper, gold, silver), then subdivided according to the type of bond formed, namely carbon–carbon or carbon–heteroatom.
Stabilisation of Exotic Tribromide (Br3−) Anions via Supramolecular Interaction with a Tosylated Macrocyclic Pyridinophane. A Serendipitous Case
Authors: Martínez-Camarena Álvaro , Savastano Matteo , Bazzicalupi Carla , Bianchi Antonio , García-España Enrique
Published: July 2020

Tetraaza-macrocyclic pyridinophane L-Ts, decorated with a p-toluenesulfonyl (tosyl; Ts) group, appear to be a useful tool to provide evidence on how the interplay of various supramolecular forces can help stabilise exotic anionic species such as tribromide (Br3−) anions. Indeed, crystals of (H2L-Ts)(Br3)1.5(NO3)0.5 unexpectedly grew from an acidic (HNO3) aqueous solution of L-Ts in the presence of Br− anions. The crystal structure of this compound was determined by single crystal XRD analysis. Hydrogen bonds, salt-bridges, anion-π, π-π stacking, and van der Waals interactions contribute to stabilising the crystal lattice. The observation of two independent Br3− anions stuck over the π-electron densities of pyridine and tosyl ligand groups, one of them being sandwiched between two pyridine rings, corroborates the significance of anion-π interactions for N-containing heterocycles. We show herein the possibility of detecting anion-π contacts from fingerprint plots generated by Hirshfeld surface analysis, demonstrating the effective usage of this structural investigation technique to further dissect individual contributions of stabilising supramolecular forces.
Tools for Wellbeing-Supportive Design: Features, Characteristics, and Prototypes
Authors: Peters Dorian , Ahmadpour Naseem , Calvo Rafael A.
Published: July 2020

While research on wellbeing within Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is an active space, a gap between research and practice persists. To tackle this, we sought to identify the practical needs of designers in taking wellbeing research into practice. We report on 15 semi-structured interviews with designers from four continents, yielding insights into design tool use generally and requirements for wellbeing design tools specifically. We then present five resulting design tool concepts, two of which were further developed into prototypes and tested in a workshop with 34 interaction design and HCI professionals. Findings include seven desirable features and three desirable characteristics for wellbeing-supportive design tools, including that these tools should satisfy the need for proof, buy-in, and tangibility. We also provide clarity around the notion of design for wellbeing and why it must be distinguished from design for positive emotions.
A Sensitive Impedimetric Aptasensor Based on Carbon Nanodots Modified Electrode for Detection of 17ß-Estradiol
Authors: Mat Zaid Mohd Hazani , Abdullah Jaafar , Rozi Normazida , Mohamad Rozlan Aliff Aiman , Abu Hanifah Sharina
Published: July 2020

A simple and sensitive aptasensor based on conductive carbon nanodots (CDs) was fabricated for the detection of 17ß-Estradiol (E2). In the present study, the hydrothermal synthesis of carbon nanodots was successfully electrodeposited on a screen-printed electrode (SPE) as a platform for immobilization of 76-mer aptamer probe. The morphology and structure of the nanomaterial were characterized by UV-visible absorption spectra, Fluorescence spectra, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Moreover, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used to investigate the electrochemical performance of the prepared electrodes. Subsequently, impedimetric (EIS) measurements were employed to investigate the relative impedances changes before and after E2 binding, which results in a linear relationship of E2 concentration in the range of 1.0 × 10−7 to 1.0 × 10 −12 M, with a detection limit of 0.5 × 10−12 M. Moreover, the developed biosensor showed high selectivity toward E2 and exhibited excellent discrimination against progesterone (PRG), estriol (E3) and bisphenol A (BPA), respectively. Moreover, the average recovery rate of spiked river water samples with E2 ranged from 98.2% to 103.8%, with relative standard deviations between 1.1% and 3.8%, revealing the potential application of the present biosensor for E2 detection in water samples.