bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Antecedents and Consequences of Travelers’ Well-Being Perceptions: Focusing on Chinese Tourist Shopping at a Duty Free
Authors: Kim Hyunjoon , Kim Jinkyung Jenny , Asif Muhammad
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore the antecedents and consequences of travelers’ well-being perceptions in the context of a duty-free shop. For this, data were collected from 742 Chinese tourists who purchased goods at duty free shops while traveling in Korea within the past year using an online survey company’s system in China. The results indicated that pragmatic, hedonic, and sociability experiences have a positive influence on travelers’ well-being perceptions. In addition, travelers’ well-being perceptions aided the enhancement of brand attitude and brand preference, which in turn positively affected word-of-mouth. Novelty is the originality of this study as very few studies on this topic are presented in the extant literature and practical implications are also discussed.
C-Linked Glycomimetic Libraries Accessed by the Passerini Reaction
Authors: Vlahoviček-Kahlina Kristina , Suć Sajko Josipa , Jerić Ivanka
Published: December 2019

Carbohydrates and their conjugates are the most abundant natural products, with diverse and highly important biological roles. Synthetic glycoconjugates are versatile tools used to probe biological systems and interfere with them. In an endeavor to provide an efficient route to glycomimetics comprising structurally diverse carbohydrate units, we describe herein a robust, stereoselective, multicomponent approach. Isopropylidene-protected carbohydrate-derived aldehydes and ketones were utilized in the Passerini reaction, giving different glycosylated structures in high yields and diastereoselectivities up to 90:10 diastereomeric ratio (d.r). Access to highly valuable building blocks based on α-hydroxy C-glycosyl acids or more complex systems was elaborated by simple post-condensation methodologies.
Effects of Dietary Lipid Composition and Fatty Acid Desaturase 2 Expression in Broodstock Gilthead Sea Bream on Lipid Metabolism-Related Genes and Methylation of the fads2 Gene Promoter in Their Offspring
Authors: Turkmen Serhat , Perera Erick , Zamorano Maria J. , Simó-Mirabet Paula , Xu Hanlin , Pérez-Sánchez Jaume , Izquierdo Marisol
Published: December 2019

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in parental diets play a key role in regulating n-3 LC-PUFA metabolism of the offspring. However, it is not clear whether this metabolic regulation is driven by the precursors presented in the diet or by the parental ability to synthesize them. To elucidate this, broodstocks of gilthead sea bream with different blood expression levels of fads2, which encodes for the rate-limiting enzyme in the n-3 LC-PUFA synthesis pathway, were fed either a diet supplemented with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3n-3) or a control diet. The progenies obtained from these four experimental groups were then challenged with a low LC-PUFA diet at the juvenile stage. Results showed that the offspring from parents with high fads2 expression presented higher growth and improved utilization of low n-3 LC-PUFA diets compared to the offspring from parents with low fads2 expression. Besides, an ALA-rich diet during the gametogenesis caused negative effects on the growth of the offspring. The epigenetic analysis demonstrated that methylation in the promoter of fads2 of the offspring was correlated with the parental fads2 expression levels and type of the broodstock diet.
Forsythoside A and Forsythoside B Contribute to Shuanghuanglian Injection-Induced Pseudoallergic Reactions through the RhoA/ROCK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Han Jiayin , Zhang Yushi , Pan Chen , Xian Zhong , Pan Chenling , Zhao Yong , Li Chunying , Yi Yan , Wang Lianmei , Tian Jingzhuo , Liu Suyan , Wang Dunfang , Meng Jing , Liang Aihua
Published: December 2019

In recent years, hypersensitivity reactions to the Shuanghuanglian injection have attracted broad attention. However, the componential chief culprits inducing the reactions and the underlying mechanisms involved have not been completely defined. In this study, we used a combination of approaches based on the mouse model, human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayer, real-time cellular monitoring, immunoblot analysis, pharmacological inhibition, and molecular docking. We demonstrated that forsythoside A and forsythoside B contributed to Shuanghuanglian injection-induced pseudoallergic reactions through activation of the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. Forsythoside A and forsythoside B could trigger dose-dependent vascular leakage in mice. Moreover, forsythoside A and forsythoside B slightly elicited mast cell degranulation. Correspondingly, treatment with forsythoside A and forsythoside B disrupted the endothelial barrier and augmented the expression of GTP-RhoA, p-MYPT1, and p-MLC2 in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, the ROCK inhibitor effectively alleviated forsythoside A/forsythoside B-induced hyperpermeability in both the endothelial cells and mice. Similar responses were not observed in the forsythoside E-treated animals and cells. These differences may be related to the potential of the tested compounds to react with RhoA-GTPγS and form stable interactions. This study innovatively revealed that some forsythosides may cause vascular leakage, and therefore, limiting their contents in injections should be considered.
Comparing and Contrasting the Multiple Roles of Butenolide Plant Growth Regulators: Strigolactones and Karrikins in Plant Development and Adaptation to Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Yang Tao , Lian Yuke , Wang Chongying
Published: December 2019

Strigolactones (SLs) and karrikins (KARs) are both butenolide molecules that play essential roles in plant growth and development. SLs are phytohormones, with SLs having known functions within the plant they are produced in, while KARs are found in smoke emitted from burning plant matter and affect seeds and seedlings in areas of wildfire. It has been suggested that SL and KAR signaling may share similar mechanisms. The α/β hydrolases DWARF14 (D14) and KARRIKIN INSENSITIVE 2 (KAI2), which act as receptors of SL and KAR, respectively, both interact with the F-box protein MORE AXILLARY GROWTH 2 (MAX2) in order to target SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2 1 (SMAX1)-LIKE/D53 family members for degradation via the 26S proteasome. Recent reports suggest that SLs and/or KARs are also involved in regulating plant responses and adaptation to various abiotic stresses, particularly nutrient deficiency, drought, salinity, and chilling. There is also crosstalk with other hormone signaling pathways, including auxin, gibberellic acid (GA), abscisic acid (ABA), cytokinin (CK), and ethylene (ET), under normal and abiotic stress conditions. This review briefly covers the biosynthetic and signaling pathways of SLs and KARs, compares their functions in plant growth and development, and reviews the effects of any crosstalk between SLs or KARs and other plant hormones at various stages of plant development. We also focus on the distinct responses, adaptations, and regulatory mechanisms related to SLs and/or KARs in response to various abiotic stresses. The review closes with discussion on ways to gain additional insights into the SL and KAR pathways and the crosstalk between these related phytohormones.
Active Demethylation of Non-CpG Moieties in Animals: A Neglected Research Area
Authors: Lucarelli Marco , Ferraguti Giampiero , Fuso Andrea
Published: December 2019

The functional role of cytosine methylation in the CpG moieties of DNA, is well established in several biological functions. The interplay between CpG methylation and hypomethylation is a well-known mechanism of modulation of gene expression. However, the role of non-CpG methylation and active dynamics of demethylation is not clearly recognized. Although some evidence exists of a role of active non-CpG demethylation in the fast dynamics of transcriptional activation in animals, few studies deal with this topic. At present, active demethylation of non-CpG moieties is a neglected research area, in spite of the promise of significant novelties.
NF-κB Signaling Regulates Physiological and Pathological Chondrogenesis
Authors: Jimi Eijiro , Huang Fei , Nakatomi Chihiro
Published: December 2019

The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes that control cell proliferation and apoptosis, as well as genes that respond to inflammation and immune responses. There are two means of NF-κB activation: the classical pathway, which involves the degradation of the inhibitor of κBα (IκBα), and the alternative pathway, which involves the NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK, also known as MAP3K14). The mouse growth plate consists of the resting zone, proliferative zone, prehypertrophic zone, and hypertrophic zone. The p65 (RelA), which plays a central role in the classical pathway, is expressed throughout the cartilage layer, from the resting zone to the hypertrophic zone. Inhibiting the classical NF-κB signaling pathway blocks growth hormone (GH) or insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) signaling, suppresses cell proliferation, and suppresses bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) expression, thereby promoting apoptosis. Since the production of autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17, are regulated by the classical pathways and are increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), NF-κB inhibitors are used to suppress inflammation and joint destruction in RA models. In osteoarthritis (OA) models, the strength of NF-κB-activation is found to regulate the facilitation or suppression of OA. On the other hand, RelB is involved in the alternative pathway, and is expressed in the periarticular zone during the embryonic period of development. The alternative pathway is involved in the generation of chondrocytes in the proliferative zone during physiological conditions, and in the development of RA and OA during pathological conditions. Thus, NF-κB is an important molecule that controls normal development and the pathological destruction of cartilage.
Combined De Novo Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of Common Bean Response to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli Infection
Authors: Chen Limin , Wu Quancong , He Weimin , He Tianjun , Wu Qianqian , Miao Yeminzi
Published: December 2019

Molecular changes elicited by common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in response to Fusarium oxysproum f. sp. Phaseoli (FOP) remain elusive. We studied the changes in root metabolism during common bean–FOP interactions using a combined de novo transcriptome and metabolome approach. Our results demonstrated alterations of transcript levels and metabolite concentrations in common bean roots 24 h post infection as compared to control. The transcriptome and metabolome responses in common bean roots revealed significant changes in structural defense i.e., cell-wall loosening and weakening characterized by hyper accumulation of cell-wall loosening and degradation related transcripts. The levels of pathogenesis related genes were significantly higher upon FOP inoculation. Interestingly, we found the involvement of glycosylphosphatidylinositol- anchored proteins (GPI-APs) in signal transduction in response to FOP infection. Our results confirmed that hormones have strong role in signaling pathways i.e., salicylic acid, jasmonate, and ethylene pathways. FOP induced energy metabolism and nitrogen mobilization in infected common bean roots as compared to control. Importantly, the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway was the most significantly enriched pathway in response to FOP infection as revealed by the combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis. Overall, the observed modulations in the transcriptome and metabolome flux as outcome of several orchestrated molecular events are determinant of host’s role in common bean–FOP interactions.
Information Evolution and Organisations
Authors: Walton Paul
Published: December 2019

In a changing digital world, organisations need to be effective information processing entities, in which people, processes, and technology together gather, process, and deliver the information that the organisation needs. However, like other information processing entities, organisations are subject to the limitations of information evolution. These limitations are caused by the combinatorial challenges associated with information processing, and by the trade-offs and shortcuts driven by selection pressures. This paper applies the principles of information evolution to organisations and uses them to derive principles about organisation design and organisation change. This analysis shows that information evolution can illuminate some of the seemingly intractable difficulties of organisations, including the effects of organisational silos and the difficulty of organisational change. The derived principles align with and connect different strands of current organisational thinking. In addition, they provide a framework for creating analytical tools to create more detailed organisational insights.
Numerical Investigation on Vortex-Induced Vibration Suppression of a Circular Cylinder with Axial-Slats
Authors: Wang Wei , Mao Zhaoyong , Tian Wenlong , Zhang Tingying
Published: December 2019

The vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression of a circular cylinder with the axial-slats is numerically investigated using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method for Reynolds number range of 8.0 × 103–5.6 × 104. The two-dimensional unsteady Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations and Shear-Stress-Transport (SST) turbulence model are used to calculate the flow around the cylinder in ANSYS Fluent. The Newmark-β method is used to evaluate structural dynamics. The amplitude response, frequency response and vortex pattern are discussed. The suppression effect of the axial-slats is the best when the gap ratio is 0.10 and the coverage ratio is 30%. Based on the VIV response, the whole VIV response region is divided into four regions (Region I, Region II, Region III and Region IV). The frequency ratio of isolated cylinder jumps between region II and region III. However, the frequency ratio jumps between region I and region II for a cylinder with the axial-slats. The axial-slats destroy the original vortex and make the vortex easier to separate. The online amplitude ratio is almost completely suppressed, and the cross-flow amplitude ratio is significantly suppressed.
Constitutive Model and Cutting Simulation of Titanium Alloy Ti6Al4V after Heat Treatment
Authors: Qian Xiaohua , Duan Xiongying
Published: December 2019

As a typical high specific strength and corrosion-resistant alloy, titanium alloy Ti6Al4V is widely used in the aviation, ocean, biomedical, sport, and other fields. The heat treatment method is often used to improve the material mechanical properties. To investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V after heat treatment, dynamic compressive experiments under high temperature and high strain rate were carried out using split Hopkinson press bar (SHPB) equipment. The stress–strain curves of Ti6Al4V alloy under different temperatures and strain rates were obtained through SHPB compressive tests. The Johnson–Cook (J–C) constitutive equation was used for expressing the stress–strain relationship of titanium alloy under large deformation. In addition, the material constants of the J–C model were fitted based on the experimental data. An orthogonal cutting simulation was performed to investigate the cutting of Ti6Al4V alloy under two different numerical calculation methods based on the established J–C model using the finite element method (FEM). The simulation results confirm that the adiabatic mode is more suitable to analyze the cutting of Ti6Al4V alloy.
Influence of Selected Carbon Nanostructures on the CYP2C9 Enzyme of the P450 Cytochrome
Authors: Sekretarska Justyna , Szczepaniak Jarosław , Sosnowska Malwina , Grodzik Marta , Kutwin Marta , Wierzbicki Mateusz , Jaworski Sławomir , Bałaban Jaśmina , Daniluk Karolina , Sawosz Ewa , Chwalibog André , Strojny Barbara
Published: December 2019

Carbon nanostructures have recently gained significant interest from scientists due to their unique physicochemical properties and low toxicity. They can accumulate in the liver, which is the main expression site of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes. These enzymes play an important role in the metabolism of exogenous compounds, such as drugs and xenobiotics. Altered activity or expression of CYP450 enzymes may lead to adverse drug effects and toxicity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of three carbon nanostructures on the activity and expression at the mRNA and protein levels of CYP2C9 isoenzyme from the CYP2C subfamily: Diamond nanoparticles, graphite nanoparticles, and graphene oxide platelets. The experiments were conducted using two in vitro models. A microsome model was used to assess the influence of the three-carbon nanostructures on the activity of the CYP2C9 isoenzyme. The CYP2C9 gene expression at the mRNA and protein levels was determined using a hepatoma-derived cell line HepG2. The experiments have shown that all examined nanostructures inhibit the enzymatic activity of the studied isoenzymes. Moreover, a decrease in the expression at the mRNA and protein levels was also observed. This indicates that despite low toxicity, the nanostructures can alter the enzymatic function of CYP450 enzymes, and the molecular pathways involved in their expression.
Comparative in Mechanical Behavior of 6061 Aluminum Alloy Welded by Pulsed GMAW with Different Filler Metals and Heat Treatments
Authors: Guzmán Isidro , Granda Everardo , Acevedo Jorge , Martínez Antonia , Dávila Yuliana , Velázquez Rubén
Published: December 2019

Precipitation hardening aluminum alloys are used in many industries due to their excellent mechanical properties, including good weldability. During a welding process, the tensile strength of the joint is critical to appropriately exploit the original properties of the material. The welding processes are still under study, and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) in pulsed metal-transfer configuration is one of the best choices to join these alloys. In this study, the welding of 6061 aluminum alloy by pulsed GMAW was performed under two heat treatment conditions and by using two filler metals, namely: ER 4043 (AlSi5) and ER 4553 (AlMg5Cr). A solubilization heat treatment T4 was used to dissolve the precipitates of β”- phase into the aluminum matrix from the original T6 heat treatment, leading in the formation of β-phase precipitates instead, which contributes to higher mechanical resistance. As a result, the T4 heat treatment improves the quality of the weld joint and increases the tensile strength in comparison to the T6 condition. The filler metal also plays an important role, and our results indicate that the use of ER 4043 produces stronger joints than ER 4553, but only under specific processing conditions, which include a moderate heat net flux. The latter is explained because Mg, Si and Cu are reported as precursors of the production of β”- phase due to heat input from the welding process and the redistribution of both: β” and β precipitates, causes a ductile intergranular fracture near the heat affected zone of the weld joint.
Carbon/Graphene-Modified Titania with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under UV and Vis Irradiation
Authors: Wang Kunlei , Endo-Kimura Maya , Belchi Raphaëlle , Zhang Dong , Habert Aurelie , Bouclé Johann , Ohtani Bunsho , Kowalska Ewa , Herlin-Boime Nathalie
Published: December 2019

Laser synthesis was used for one-step synthesis of titania/graphene composites (G-TiO2 (C)) from a suspension of 0.04 wt% commercial reduced graphene oxide (rGO) dispersed in liquid titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP). Reference titania sample (TiO2(C)) was prepared by the same method without graphene addition. Both samples and commercial titania P25 were characterized by various methods and tested under UV/vis irradiation for oxidative decomposition of acetic acid and dehydrogenation of methanol (with and without Pt co-catalyst addition), and under vis irradiation for phenol degradation and inactivation of Escherichia coli. It was found that both samples (TiO2(C) and G-TiO2(C)) contained carbon resulting from TTIP and C2H4 (used as a synthesis sensitizer), which activated titania towards vis activity. The photocatalytic activity under UV/vis irradiation was like that by P25. The highest activity of TiO2(C) sample for acetic acid oxidation was probably caused by its surface enrichment with hydroxyl groups. G-TiO2(C) was the most active for methanol dehydrogenation in the absence of platinum (ca. five times higher activity than that by TiO2(C) and P25), suggesting that graphene works as a co-catalyst for hydrogen evolution. High activity under both UV and vis irradiation for decomposition of organic compounds, hydrogen evolution and inactivation of bacteria suggests that laser synthesis allows preparation of cheap (carbon-modified) and efficient photocatalysts for broad environmental applications.
Effect of Laser Beam Oscillation on Laser Welding–Brazing of Ti/Al Dissimilar Metals
Authors: Chen Xi , Lei Zhenglong , Chen Yanbin , Han Yu , Jiang Meng , Tian Ze , Bi Jiang , Lin Sanbao , Jiang Nan
Published: December 2019

Ti4Al6V and 6061 Al dissimilar metals were butt welded by the laser oscillating welding method. The effects of laser offset, oscillation frequency, and energy distribution on the formation, microstructure, and tensile properties of dissimilar metal joints are discussed in detail. The experimental results show that the Ti6Al4V was micro melted with a laser offset of 1.1 mm, and a large number of intermetallic compounds (IMCs) were formed on the side of the Ti6Al4V. Additionally, there were some porosity defects in the fusion zone (FZ) due to an inappropriate laser oscillation frequency. When the laser offset was increased to 1.2 mm, the IMC distribution was uniform and the thickness was controlled below 2 μm. The porosity defects in the FZ decreased and the tensile strength of the joints increased significantly. The maximum value of tensile strength reached 173 MPa at a laser frequency of 28 Hz.
Characteristic Features of Wound Dressings Based on Butyric-Acetic Chitin Copolyesters—Results of Clinical Trials
Authors: Latańska Ilona , Kozera-Żywczyk Anna , Paluchowska Elwira Beata , Owczarek Witold , Kaszuba Andrzej , Noweta Marcin , Tazbir Józef , Kolesińska Beata , Draczyński Zbigniew , Sujka Witold
Published: December 2019

The article presents the results of clinical trials of wound dressings whose main ingredient is butyric-acetic chitin copolyester (BAC 90:10). It is a chitin derivative soluble in typical organic solvents. During the trial, the dressings were used on wounds resulting from venous insufficiency or diabetes. The trial evaluated the safety of use and efficacy of three forms of the dressing including porous membrane (Medisorb R Membrane), porous membrane with silver (Medisorb R Ag), and powder (Medisorb R Powder). The clinical trial had a multi-centre character. Three medical units were engaged in the study. The trial included 36 patients (12 men and 24 women). The mean age of the participants was 65 years of age (age range: 26–96). The choice of dressings was made on the basis of preliminary evaluation of the wound, clinical signs of infection, or risk of infection. Medisorb R Membrane dressing was used in 23 patients, Medisorb R Ag dressing was used in 15 patients, and Medisorb R powder was used in two patients. During the course of the trial, there were 10 control visits planned. The obtained results prove the safety and efficacy of dressings in question. The efficacy of treatment was evaluated as good. In the majority of patients, the ulceration was decreased both on the surface and in depth. The success of the treatment relied not only on the applied dressing, but also the stage of the basic disease, the accompanying diseases, and the age of the patient.
Effect of Layer Thickness in Layered Aluminum Matrix Syntactic Foam
Authors: Qian Chenhao , Liang Chen , He Ziyang , Ji Weixi
Published: December 2019

This work experimentally investigates the effect of layered structure on the static and impact response of a new layered syntactic foam developed for impact energy absorption. The layered syntactic foam had the same density of 1.6 g/cm3 and the same components of 50% large spheres (L) and 50% small spheres (S) with different structures from two layers to five layers. The impact response and energy absorption were investigated by drop-weight impact tests. Under static loading, more layers led to higher yield stress and lower energy absorption. There were three types of progressive failures of layered syntactic form under impact loading. The failure propagation was examined and found to be dependent on the layer number and impact energy. Interestingly, layered syntactic foam absorbed more energy than both of its components in terms of ductility. The ductility of layered syntactic foam decreased with the increase in layer number. The peak stress of layered syntactic foam increased with the increase in layer number. Two-layered syntactic foam LS had the highest ductility under 60 J/g impact, as well as an energy absorption of 35 J/g, compared to other layered syntactic foams. Specifically, its component L had a ductility under 70 J/g and an energy absorption of 25 J/g, while component S had a ductility under 10 J/g and an energy absorption of 10 J/g.
Assessment of the Environmental Impact of a Car Tire throughout Its Lifecycle Using the LCA Method
Authors: Piotrowska Katarzyna , Kruszelnicka Weronika , Bałdowska-Witos Patrycja , Kasner Robert , Rudnicki Jacek , Tomporowski Andrzej , Flizikowski Józef , Opielak Marek
Published: December 2019

There are numerous threats to the natural environment that pose a significant risk both to the environment and to human health, including car tires. Thus, there is a need to determine the impact of the life cycle of car tires on the environment, starting with the processes of raw materials acquisition, production, and ending with end-of-life management. Therefore, the authors of this study chose to do research on passenger car tires (size: P205/55/R16). As part of the research, the life cycle assessment (LCA) of traditional car tires was performed with the use of the Eco-indicator 99, cumulative energy demand (CED), and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) methods. The level of negative effects was determined for the life cycle of a tire and its particular stages: Production, use, and end of life. The negative impact on the atmosphere, soil, and water, as well as on human health, the environment, and natural resources was also investigated. The results show that the most energy-absorbing stage of a car tire life cycle is the use stage. It was found that the most harmful impact involves the depletion of natural resources and emissions into the atmosphere. Recycling car tires reduces their negative environmental impact during all their life cycle stages.
Enhanced Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis by Escherichia Coli Transformed with Candida Albicans Metallothionein Gene
Authors: Yuan Qunying , Bomma Manjula , Xiao Zhigang
Published: December 2019

In this study, the metallothionein gene of Candida albicans (C. albicans) was assembled by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), inserted into pUC19 vector, and further transformed into Escherichia coli (E. coli) DH5α cells. The capacity of these recombinant E. coli DH5α cells to synthesize silver nanoparticles was examined. Our results demonstrated that the expression of C. albicans metallothionein in E. coli promoted the bacterial tolerance to metal ions and increased yield of silver nanoparticle synthesis. The compositional and morphological analysis of the silver nanoparticles revealed that silver nanoparticles synthesized by the engineered E. coli cells are around 20 nm in size, and spherical in shape. Importantly, the silver nanoparticles produced by the engineered cells were more homogeneous in shape and size than those produced by bacteria lack of the C. albicans metallothionein. Our study provided preliminary information for further development of the engineered E. coli as a platform for large-scale production of uniform nanoparticles for various applications in nanotechnology.
A New Three-Step Class of Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Capdevila Raudys R. , Cordero Alicia , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: December 2019

In this work, a new class of iterative methods for solving nonlinear equations is presented and also its extension for nonlinear systems of equations. This family is developed by using a scalar and matrix weight function procedure, respectively, getting sixth-order of convergence in both cases. Several numerical examples are given to illustrate the efficiency and performance of the proposed methods.
A Numerical Study on the Crack Development Behavior of Rock-Like Material Containing Two Intersecting Flaws
Authors: Dai Bing , Chen Ying , Zhao Guoyan , Liang Weizhang , Wu Hao
Published: December 2019

It is quite often that rocks contain intersecting cracks. Therefore, crack behavior cannot be completely studied by only considering several isolated, single flaws. To investigate the crack behavior of rock or rock-like material containing intersecting flaws under uniaxial loading, numerical simulations were carried out using parallel bonded-particle models containing two intersecting flaws with different inclination angles (varying β) and different intersection angles (varying αα). The crack propagation processes are analyzed and two typical patterns of linkage are observed between two intersecting flaws: (1) One-tip-linkage that contains three subtypes: Coalescence position near the tip; coalescence position at the flaw, but far away from the tip; coalescence position outside the flaw at a certain distance from the tip; and (2) two-tip-linkage with two subtypes: Straight linkage and arc linkage. The geometries of flaws influence the coalescence type. Moreover, the effects of intersection angle α and inclination angle β on the peak stress, the stress of crack initiation, and the stress of crack coalescence are also investigated in detail.
New Generalized Mizoguchi-Takahashi’s Fixed Point Theorems for Essential Distances and e0-Metrics
Authors: Jiang Binghua , Huang Huaping , Du Wei-Shih
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we present some new generalizations of Mizoguchi-Takahashi’s fixed point theorem which also improve and extend Du-Hung’s fixed point theorem. Some new examples illustrating our results are also given. By applying our new results, some new fixed point theorems for essential distances and e0-metrics were established.
Formative Transcendence of Flipped Learning in Mathematics Students of Secondary Education
Authors: López Belmonte Jesús , Fuentes Cabrera Arturo , López Núñez Juan , Pozo Sánchez Santiago
Published: December 2019

Educational technology is achieving great potential in the formative processes of today’s society. Flipped learning is considered as a pedagogical innovation derived from the technological influence in learning spaces. The general objective of the research is to analyze the effectiveness of flipped learning on a traditional teaching and learning approach in the subject of Mathematics. To achieve this objective, an experimental design of a descriptive and correlational type has been followed through a quantitative research method. Two study groups have been set up. In the control group, the contents have been imparted from a traditional perspective, and in the experimental group, innovation has been applied through the use of flipped learning. The sample of participants has been chosen by means of intentional sampling and reached the figure of 60 students in the 4th year of Secondary Education at an educational center in Ceuta (Spain). A questionnaire has been used for data collection. The results reflect that the application of flipped learning has obtained better assessment in established attitudinal and mathematical indicators. It is concluded that with the use of flipped learning, motivation and skills are increased in the analysis and representation of graphs.
Fractions and Pythagorean Tuning—An Interdisciplinary Study in Secondary Education
Authors: Chao-Fernández Rocío , Mato-Vázquez Dorinda , Chao-Fernández Aurelio
Published: December 2019

Formal education is experiencing a series of reforms that favor the integration of the contents of different areas in the teaching and learning of the different educational stages. The present study examined the use of an interdisciplinary music and mathematics experience in Secondary Education in Galicia (Spain) in the 2016/17 academic year. A descriptive–exploratory design was used, through a Likert questionnaire applied to 197 students with a diagnostic test and a reference test, and a study of multiple cases was carried out in which information was collected through classroom observations. The results show improvements in the understanding of mathematical and musical concepts, and attitudes and procedures so we can argue that the use of interdisciplinary activities have favored the development of teaching–learning opportunities in mathematical and musical training.
Discovery of Geranylgeranyl Pyrophosphate Synthase (GGPPS) Paralogs from Haematococcus pluvialis Based on Iso-Seq Analysis and Their Function on Astaxanthin Biosynthesis
Authors: Huang Danqiong , Liu Wenfu , Li Anguo , Wang Chaogang , Hu Zhangli
Published: December 2019

Haematococcus pluvialis is widely distributed in the world and well known as the richest natural source of astaxanthin that is a strong antioxidant with excellent commercial value. The pathway of astaxanthin biosynthesis in H. pluvialis has been documented as an enzymatic reaction. Several enzymes have been reported, but their isoforms or homologs have not been investigated genome-wide. To better understand the astaxanthin biosynthesis pathway in H. pluvialis, eight candidates of the geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase gene (HpGGPPS) predicted from Iso-seq data were isolated in this study. The length of coding region of these candidates varied from 960 bp to 1272 bp, composing of 7–9 exons. The putative amino acids of all candidates composed the signature domain of GGPPS gene. However, the motifs in the domain region are varied, indicating different bio-functions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed eight candidates can be clustered into three groups. Only two candidates in Group1 encode the synthase participating in the astaxanthin formation. The yield of astaxanthin from these two candidates, 7.1 mg/g (DW) and 6.5 mg/g (DW) respectively, is significant higher than that from CrtE (2.4 mg/g DW), a GGPPS gene from Pantoea ananatis. This study provides a potential productive pathway for astaxanthin synthesis.
Retrospective Study on the Clinical Superiority of the Vacuum-Assisted Closure System with a Silicon-Based Dressing over the Conventional Tie-over Bolster Technique in Skin Graft Fixation
Authors: Chou Ping-Ruey , Wu Sheng-Hua , Hsieh Meng-Chien , Huang Shu-Hung
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives: The tie-over bolster technique has been conventionally used for skin graft fixation; however, long operative times and postoperative pain are the main disadvantages of this method. In this study, we introduce a new method using vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) with a silicon-based dressing as an alternative for skin graft fixation. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the clinical effect of the VAC plus silicon-based dressing method and the conventional tie-over bolster technique for skin graft fixation in terms of pain, operative time, and skin graft take rate. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients who underwent skin graft surgery performed by a single surgeon from January 2017 to October 2018 were included in this clinical study. They were divided into two groups based on the type of treatment: tie-over bolster technique and vacuum-assisted closure (VAC), or silicon-based dressing groups. The operative times were recorded twice (during suturing or stapling of the graft and during removal of the dressing) in the two groups; similarly, pain was assessed using a numeric rating scale (NRS) after surgery and during dressing removal. Skin graft take rate was evaluated two weeks after dressing removal. Results: Twenty-six patients who met the eligibility criteria were enrolled into the study and assigned to one of the two groups (n = 13 each). No significant differences in age, gender, and graft area were noted between the two groups of patients. The VAC plus silicon-based dressing group demonstrated higher skin graft take rates (p < 0.05), shorter operation times (p < 0.05), and lower levels of pain (postoperative pain and pain during dressing removal) compared with the tie-over bolster technique group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings indicate that VAC with silicon-based dressing can be used for skin graft fixation due to its superior properties when compared with the conventional method, and can improve the quality of life of patients undergoing skin graft fixation.
Investigation of the Pd Nanoparticles-Assisted Chemical Etching of Silicon for Ethanol Solution Electrooxidation
Authors: Volovlikova Olga , Silakov Gennady , Gavrilov Sergey , Maniecki Tomasz , Dudin Alexander
Published: December 2019

The formation of porous silicon by Pd nanoparticles-assisted chemical etching of single-crystal Si with resistivity ρ = 0.01 Ω·cm at 25 °C, 50 °C and 75 °C in HF/H2O2/H2O solution was studied. Porous layers of silicon were studied by optical and scanning electron microscopy, and gravimetric analysis. It is shown that por-Si, formed by Pd nanoparticles-assisted chemical etching, has the property of ethanol electrooxidation. The chromatographic analysis of ethanol electrooxidation products on por-Si/Pd shows that the main products are CO2, CH4, H2, CO, O2, acetaldehyde (CHO)+, methanol and water vapor. The mass activity of the por-Si/Pd system was investigated by measuring the short-circuit current in ethanol solutions. The influence of the thickness of porous silicon and wafer on the mass activity and the charge measured during ethanol electrooxidation was established. Additionally, the mechanism of charge transport during ethanol electrooxidation was established.
Algorithms for the Motion of Randomly Positioned Hexagonal and Square Microparts on a “Smart Platform” with Electrostatic Forces and a New Method for Their Simultaneous Centralization and Alignment
Authors: Kritikou Georgia , Aspragathos Nikos , Moulianitis Vassilis
Published: December 2019

In this paper, an approach is proposed for the simultaneous manipulation of multiple hexagonal and square plastic–glass type microparts that are positioned randomly on a smart platform (SP) using electrostatic forces applied by the suitable activation of circular conductive electrodes. First, the statics analysis of a micropart on the SP is presented in detail and the forces and torques that are applied to and around the center of mass (COM) respectively due to the activation of a SP electrode are determined. The “single electrode activation” (SEA) and the “multiple electrodes activations” (MEA) algorithms are introduced to determine the feasible SP electrodes activations for the microparts manipulation considering their initial configuration. An algorithm for the simultaneous handling of multiple microparts is studied considering the collision avoidance with neighboring microparts. An approach is presented for the simultaneous centralization and alignment of the microparts preparing them for their batch parallel motion on the SP. The developed algorithms are applied to a simulated platform and the results are presented and discussed.
Attenuation of Vibrio parahaemolyticus Virulence Factors by a Mixture of Natural Antimicrobials
Authors: Pinkerton Laurette , Linton Mark , Kelly Carmel , Ward Patrick , Gradisteanu Pircalabioru Gratiela , Pet Ioan , Stef Lavinia , Sima Filip , Adamov Tabita , Gundogdu Ozan , Corcionivoschi Nicolae
Published: December 2019

Reducing acute mortality in aquatic crustaceans using natural alternatives to antibiotics has become a necessity, firstly for its positive impact on the aquaculture industry and, secondly, because the extensive use of antibiotics may lead to increased levels of drug resistance in pathogenic microorganisms. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a mixture of natural antimicrobials on the in vitro and in vivo virulence abilities of Type VI secretion system (T6SS)-positive Vibrio parahaemolyticus (A3 and D4), strains known as having potentially harmful health consequences for aquatic crustaceans and consumers. Herein, we report that a natural antimicrobial mixture (A3009) was capable of significantly reducing the virulence of V. parahaemolyticus strains A3 and D4 in an in vitro infection model, using the fish cell line CHSE-214, an effect which correlates with the bacterial downregulation of hcp1 and hcp2 gene expression and with the ability of the antimicrobial to efficiently retain low cytotoxic levels (p < 0.001). We show for the first time that a natural antimicrobial is able to significantly reduce the mortality of shrimps in a challenge experiment and is able to significantly attenuate H2O2 release during infection (p < 0.001), indicating that it could harbor positive intestinal redox balance effects.
Temperature Effects on Methanogenesis and Sulfidogenesis during Anaerobic Digestion of Sulfur-Rich Macroalgal Biomass in Sequencing Batch Reactors
Authors: Jung Heejung , Kim Jaai , Lee Changsoo
Published: December 2019

Methanogenesis and sulfidogenesis, the major microbial reduction reactions occurring in the anaerobic digestion (AD) process, compete for common substrates. Therefore, the balance between methanogenic and sulfidogenic activities is important for efficient biogas production. In this study, changes in methanogenic and sulfidogenic performances in response to changes in organic loading rate (OLR) were examined in two digesters treating sulfur-rich macroalgal waste under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, respectively. Both methanogenesis and sulfidogenesis were largely suppressed under thermophilic relative to mesophilic conditions, regardless of OLR. However, the suppressive effect was even more significant for sulfidogenesis, which may suggest an option for H2S control. The reactor microbial communities developed totally differently according to reactor temperature, with the abundance of both methanogens and sulfate-reducing bacteria being significantly higher under mesophilic conditions. In both reactors, sulfidogenic activity increased with increasing OLR. The findings of this study help to understand how temperature affects sulfidogenesis and methanogenesis during AD.
Phylogenetic Placement of Isolates Within the Trans-Eurasian Clade A.Br.008/009 of Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Antwerpen Markus , Beyer Wolfgang , Bassy Olga , Ortega-García María Victoria , Cabria-Ramos Juan Carlos , Grass Gregor , Wölfel Roman
Published: December 2019

The largest phylogenetic lineage known to date of the anthrax pathogen Bacillus anthracis is the wide-spread, so-called Trans-Eurasian clade systematically categorized as the A.Br.008/009 group sharing two defining canonical single-nucleotide polymorphisms (canSNP). In this study, we genome-sequenced a collection of 35 B. anthracis strains of this clade, derived from human infections, animal outbreaks or soil, mostly from European countries isolated between 1936 and 2008. The new data were subjected to comparative chromosomal analysis, together with 75 B. anthracis genomes available in public databases, and the relative placements of these isolates were determined within the global phylogeny of the A.Br.008/009 canSNP group. From this analysis, we have detected 3754 chromosomal SNPs, allowing the assignation of the new chromosomal sequences to established sub-clades, to define new sub-clades, such as two new Spanish, one Bulgarian or one German group(s), or to introduce orphan lineages. SNP-based results were compared with that of a multilocus variable number of tandem repeat analysis (MLVA). This analysis indicated that MLVA typing might provide additional information in cases when genomics yields identical genotypes or shows only minor differences. Introducing the delayed mismatch amplification assay (DMAA) PCR-analysis, we developed a cost-effective method to interrogate for a set of ten phylogenetically informative SNPs within genomes of A.Br.008/009 canSNP clade strains of B. anthracis. By this approach, additional 32 strains could be assigned to five of ten defined clades.
d-Amino Acids and Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Kobayashi Jyumpei
Published: December 2019

Proteins are composed of l-amino acids except for glycine, which bears no asymmetric carbon atom. Accordingly, researchers have studied the function and metabolism of l-amino acids in living organisms but have paid less attention to the presence and roles of their d-enantiomers. However, with the recent developments in analytical techniques, the presence of various d-amino acids in the cells of various organisms and the importance of their roles have been revealed. For example, d-serine (d-Ser) and d-aspartate (d-Asp) act as neurotransmitters and hormone-like substances, respectively, in humans, whereas some kinds of d-amino acids act as a biofilm disassembly factor in bacteria. Interestingly, lactic acid bacteria produce various kinds of d-amino acids during fermentation, and many d-amino acids taste sweet, compared with the corresponding l-enantiomers. The influence of d-amino acids on human health and beauty has been reported in recent years. These facts suggest that the d-amino acids produced by lactic acid bacteria are important in terms of the taste and function of lactic-acid-fermented foods. Against this background, unique d-amino-acid-metabolizing enzymes have been searched for and observed in lactic acid bacteria. This review summarizes and introduces the importance of various d-amino acids in this regard.
Continuous Flow Photochemical and Thermal Multi-Step Synthesis of Bioactive 3-Arylmethylene-2,3-Dihydro-1H-Isoindolin-1-Ones
Authors: Mumtaz Saira , Robertson Mark J. , Oelgemöller Michael
Published: December 2019

An effective multi-step continuous flow approach towards N-diaminoalkylated 3-arylmethylene-2,3-dihydro-1H-isoindolin-1-ones, including the local anesthetic compound AL-12, has been realized. Compared to the traditional decoupled batch processes, the combined photochemical–thermal–thermal flow setup rapidly provides the desired target compounds in superior yields and significantly shorter reaction times.
Much More Than a Pleasant Scent: A Review on Essential Oils Supporting the Immune System
Authors: Peterfalvi Agnes , Miko Eva , Nagy Tamas , Reger Barbara , Simon Diana , Miseta Attila , Czéh Boldizsár , Szereday Laszlo
Published: December 2019

The augmenting acceptance and application of herbal medicine in prevention and treatment of diseases also involve the use of plant essential oils (EOs) through different routes of administration (aromatherapy). Scientific data supporting the efficacy of certain herbal products are continuously growing; however, the cumulative evidence is not always sufficient. The anti-inflammatory properties of EOs have been investigated more extensively and also reviewed in different settings, but so far, our review is the first to summarize the immune-supporting properties of EOs. Our aim here is to synthesize the currently available data on the immune function enhancing effects of EOs. An online search was conducted in the PubMed database, which was terminated at the end of July 2019. Other articles were found in the reference lists of the preselected papers. Studies that applied whole EOs with known components, or single EO constituents under in vitro or in vivo laboratory conditions, or in human studies, and de facto measured parameters related to immune function as outcome measures were included. Two specific fields, EO dietary supplementation for livestock and fish, and forest bathing are also explored. Some EOs, particularly eucalyptus and ginger, seem to have immune function enhancing properties in multiple studies.