bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Physically Demanding Work Hinder a Physically Active Lifestyle in Low Socioeconomic Workers? A Compositional Data Analysis Based on Accelerometer Data
Authors: Rasmussen Charlotte Lund , Palarea-Albaladejo Javier , Bauman Adrian , Gupta Nidhi , Nabe-Nielsen Kirsten , Birk Jørgensen Marie , Holtermann Andreas
Published: June 2018

Leisure time physical activity (LTPA) is strongly associated with socioeconomic position (SEP). Few studies have investigated if demanding occupational physical activity (OPA) could impede a physically active lifestyle in low SEP groups. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between OPA and LTPA among low SEP men and women. We used cross-sectional data from 895 low SEP workers who wore accelerometers for 1–5 consecutive workdays. The associations between the relative importance of activities performed during work and leisure time were assessed using compositional regression models stratified on sex. Compositional isotemporal substitution models were used to assess the implication of increasing occupational walking, standing, or sitting on LTPA. We found dissimilarity in LTPA between the sexes, with men spending more waking leisure time sedentary than women (men ~67%, women ~61%), suggesting women performed more household tasks. In men, the associations between OPA and LTPA were weak. In women, the strongest association was observed between the relative importance of occupational walking and leisure time standing (β^ = −0.16; p = 0.01), where reallocating 15 min work time to occupational walking showed an expected decrease in leisure time standing of 7 min. If this time was spent on additional sedentary leisure time, it could have adverse health consequences.
ADHD Symptoms in Pathological and Problem Gamblers in Singapore
Authors: Mak Charles , Tan Kok Kah , Guo Song
Published: June 2018

Background: There is relatively little research examining the relationship between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and gambling addiction. This study seeks to explore for ADHD symptoms in adult gambling addiction patients and to evaluate their gambling-related cognitions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at National Addictions Management Service, Institute of Mental Health, in Singapore. Patients presenting for gambling treatment were screened for ADHD symptoms and assessed for severity of gambling-related cognitions. The primary objective was to observe the rate of patients screening positive for ADHD. Results: 20% of the sample screened positive for ADHD. These individuals also had lower levels of gambling-related cognitions. No significant correlation was noted between ADHD symptoms and gambling-related cognition scores. Conclusions: Positive screening results for ADHD occurred frequently in our sample of Pathological Gambling (PG) and Problem Gambling patients and these affected individuals also exhibited lower levels of gambling-related cognitions. This finding may suggest that the gambling behavior in patients with ADHD-PG comorbidity is driven by impulsivity rather than gambling-related cognitions, which has implication on treatment considerations. Further research with a larger sample size is indicated.
Sexual Health Help-Seeking Behavior among Migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa and South East Asia living in High Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rade Donna Angelina , Crawford Gemma , Lobo Roanna , Gray Corie , Brown Graham
Published: June 2018

The number of migrants has increased globally. This phenomenon has contributed to increasing health problems amongst migrants in high-income countries, including vulnerability for HIV acquisition and other sexual health issues. Adaptation processes in destination countries can present difficulties for migrants to seek help from and gain access to health services. This study examined migrants’ from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and South East Asia (SEA) sexual health help-seeking behavior in high-income countries with universal health coverage. The systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO. Several databases were searched from 2000 to 2017. Of 2824 studies, 15 met the inclusion criteria. These consisted of 12 qualitative and three quantitative studies conducted in Australia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, and Sweden. Migrants experienced a range of difficulties accessing health services, specifically those related to sexual health, in high-income countries. Few studies described sources of sexual health help-seeking or facilitators to help-seeking. Barriers to access were numerous, including: stigma, direct and indirect costs, difficulty navigating health systems in destination countries and lack of cultural competency within health services. More culturally secure health services, increased health service literacy and policy support to mitigate costs, will improve health service access for migrants from SSA and SEA. Addressing the structural drivers for stigma and discrimination remains an ongoing and critical challenge.
Method of Constructing Point Generalization Constraints Based on the Cloud Platform
Authors: Zhou Jiemin , Shen Jie , Yang Shuai , Yu Zhenguo , Stanek Karel , Stampach Radim
Published: June 2018

As an important part of spatial data, the point feature has always been an essential element in web maps and navigation maps. With the development of location-based services and the rapid increase in volunteered geographic information and social media data, the amount of point data is increasing day by day, resulting in inevitable problems of overlay and congestion during visualization. Map generalization provides multiple algorithms that can be used to select, aggregate and make typification of points or point clusters. For the generalization of point data, however, the traditional stand-alone computing environment has difficulty with real-time realization. Currently, the rapid development of cloud computing technology provides a powerful support for improving the efficiency of map generalization. However, compared with the stand-alone environment, the data decomposition and the real-time display of point generalization in the cloud platform imposes higher requirements on the point generalization constraints, which play an important role in point-generalized process control. Based on the computational characteristics of the cloud platform, this paper analyzes the changes in point generalization constraints. In addition, our work proposes the constraints of point generalization based on the cloud platform and its construction method, builds a prototype system based on the Hadoop cloud platform. Our prototype system is tested using typical experimental data. Its efficiency and the quality of its results is examined. The results show that the efficiency and quality of point selection can be significantly improved by controlling the point generalization process with the generalization constraints in the cloud computing environment proposed in this paper. This paper provides a possible way for the realization of map generalization in the cloud computing environment. Its usability with real data and with many users accessing it will be the focus of further research.
CHS Priority Planning Tool (CPPT)—A GIS Model for Defining Hydrographic Survey and Charting Priorities
Authors: Chénier René , Abado Loretta , Martin Heather
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a geographic information system (GIS) model that the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) developed to prioritize hydrographic survey and charting at a national scale. Canada has the largest coastline in the world; determining its survey and charting priorities at a national scale is a challenging task, requiring sufficient data to provide national coverage. In order to achieve this task and manage the geospatial layers, CHS has developed a GIS-based model, the CHS Priority Planning Tool (CPPT). Geospatial information of navigational significance (e.g., traffic patterns, water depth, and infrastructure) have been compiled into a GIS model to identify where CHS’s hydrographic survey and charting priorities exist. Probability risk modelling, such as a risk of grounding and collision model, as well as a drift model, are included in the CPPT to ensure that CHS has proper mitigation measures in “high-risk” areas. Other environmental factors such as ice and wind speed are also included to help define national priorities for CHS. The CPPT is operational and is currently being used to define and prioritize CHS’s survey and charting requirements nationally for multiple years. A GIS web tool has been developed to facilitate accessibility for all Department of Fisheries and Oceans employees and to aid in decision making regarding CHS’s national priorities.
Suppression of Postprandial Blood Glucose Fluctuations by a Low-Carbohydrate, High-Protein, and High-Omega-3 Diet via Inhibition of Gluconeogenesis
Authors: Wang Bin , Smyl Christopher , Chen Chih-Yu , Li Xiang-Yong , Huang Wei , Zhang Hong-Man , Pai Victor J. , Kang Jing X.
Published: June 2018

Hyperglycemia significantly contributes to the development and progression of metabolic diseases. Managing postprandial blood glucose fluctuations is of particular importance for patients with hyperglycemia, but safe and effective means of reducing blood glucose levels are still lacking. Five diets with varying macronutrient ratios and omega-3 fatty acid amounts were tested for their blood glucose-lowering effects in male C57BL/6J mice. The diets with potent blood glucose-lowering effects were further investigated for their underlying mechanisms and their beneficial effects on hyperglycemia models. Mice given the low-carbohydrate, high-protein, and high-omega-3 (LCHP+3) diet exhibited a rapid reduction of the blood glucose levels that remained consistently low, regardless of feeding. These effects were associated with reduced amino acid gluconeogenesis, due to the inhibition of hepatic alanine transaminase (ALT). Furthermore, the LCHP+3 intervention was effective in reducing the blood glucose levels in several disease conditions, including type 1 diabetes mellitus, hormone-induced hyperglycemia, and diet-induced metabolic syndrome. Our findings identify the LCHP+3 diet as a potent blood glucose-lowering diet that suppresses postprandial blood glucose fluctuations through the inhibition of gluconeogenesis and may have great clinical utility for the management of metabolic diseases with hyperglycemia.
The Bacterial Protein CNF1 as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy against Mitochondrial Diseases: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fabbri Alessia , Travaglione Sara , Maroccia Zaira , Guidotti Marco , Pierri Ciro Leonardo , Primiano Guido , Servidei Serenella , Loizzo Stefano , Fiorentini Carla
Published: June 2018

The Escherichia coli protein toxin cytotoxic necrotizing factor 1 (CNF1), which acts on the Rho GTPases that are key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton, is emerging as a potential therapeutic tool against certain neurological diseases characterized by cellular energy homeostasis impairment. In this brief communication, we show explorative results on the toxin’s effect on fibroblasts derived from a patient affected by myoclonic epilepsy with ragged-red fibers (MERRF) that carries a mutation in the m.8344A>G gene of mitochondrial DNA. We found that, in the patient’s cells, besides rescuing the wild-type-like mitochondrial morphology, CNF1 administration is able to trigger a significant increase in cellular content of ATP and of the mitochondrial outer membrane marker Tom20. These results were accompanied by a profound F-actin reorganization in MERRF fibroblasts, which is a typical CNF1-induced effect on cell cytoskeleton. These results point at a possible role of the actin organization in preventing or limiting the cell damage due to mitochondrial impairment and at CNF1 treatment as a possible novel strategy against mitochondrial diseases still without cure.
Autotaxin–Lysophosphatidic Acid Signaling in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ramesh Sindhu , Govindarajulu Manoj , Suppiramaniam Vishnu , Moore Timothy , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan
Published: June 2018

The brain contains various forms of lipids that are important for maintaining its structural integrity and regulating various signaling cascades. Autotaxin (ATX) is an ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase-2 enzyme that hydrolyzes extracellular lysophospholipids into the lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). LPA is a major bioactive lipid which acts through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and plays an important role in mediating cellular signaling processes. The majority of synthesized LPA is derived from membrane phospholipids through the action of the secreted enzyme ATX. Both ATX and LPA are highly expressed in the central nervous system. Dysfunctional expression and activity of ATX with associated changes in LPA signaling have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This review focuses on the current understanding of LPA signaling, with emphasis on the importance of the autotaxin–lysophosphatidic acid (ATX–LPA) pathway and its alterations in AD and a brief note on future therapeutic applications based on ATX–LPA signaling.
The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of 8-Hydroxydaidzein (8-HD) in Activated Macrophage-Like RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: Kim Eunji , Kang Young-Gyu , Kim Ji Hye , Kim Yong-Jin , Lee Tae Ryong , Lee Jongsung , Kim Donghyun , Cho Jae Youl
Published: June 2018

8-Hydroxydaidzein (8-HD) is a daidzein metabolite isolated from soybeans. This compound has been studied for its anti-proliferation, depigmentation, and antioxidant activities. However, the anti-inflammatory activities of 8-HD are not well-understood. Through its antioxidant effects in ABTS and DPPH assays, 8-HD reduces the production of sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced radical oxygen species (ROS). By triggering various Toll-like receptors (TLRs), 8-HD suppresses the inflammatory mediator nitric oxide (NO) without cytotoxicity. We examined the regulatory mechanism of 8-HD in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced conditions. We found that 8-HD diminishes inflammatory gene expression (e.g., inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α) by regulating the transcriptional activities of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein 1 (AP-1). To find the potential targets of 8-HD, signaling pathways were investigated by immunoblotting analyses. These analyses revealed that 8-HD inhibits the activation of TAK1 and that phosphorylated levels of downstream molecules decrease in sequence. Together, our results demonstrate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of 8-HD and suggest its potential use in cosmetics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Lipase Immobilization on Silica Xerogel Treated with Protic Ionic Liquid and its Application in Biodiesel Production from Different Oils
Authors: Carvalho Nayára B. , Vidal Bruna T. , Barbosa Anderson S. , Pereira Matheus M. , Mattedi Silvana , Freitas Lisiane dos S. , Lima Álvaro S. , Soares Cleide M. F.
Published: June 2018

Treated silica xerogel with protic ionic liquid (PIL) and bifunctional agents (glutaraldehyde and epichlorohydrin) is a novel support strategy used in the effective immobilization of lipase from Burkholderia cepacia (LBC) by covalent binding. As biocatalysts with the highest activity recovery yields, LBC immobilized by covalent binding with epichlorohydrin without (203%) and with PIL (250%), was assessed by the following the hydrolysis reaction of olive oil and characterized biochemically (Michaelis–Menten constant, optimum pH and temperature, and operational stability). Further, the potential transesterification activity for three substrates: sunflower, soybean, and colza oils, was also determined, achieving a conversion of ethyl esters between 70 and 98%. The supports and the immobilized lipase systems were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis.
Ethyl Acetate Extract of Scindapsus cf. hederaceus Exerts the Inhibitory Bioactivity on Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells through Modulating ER Stress
Authors: Chou Chon-Kit , Liu Wangta , Hong Yu-Jie , Dahms Hans-Uwe , Chiu Chen-Hao , Chang Wen-Tsan , Chien Ching-Ming , Yen Chia-Hung , Cheng Yuan-Bin , Chiu Chien-Chih
Published: June 2018

Unfolded protein response (UPR) is a cytoprotective mechanism that alleviates the protein-folding burden in eukaryotic organisms. Moderate activation of UPR is required for maintaining endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis and profoundly contributes to tumorigenesis. Defects in UPR signaling are implicated in the attenuation of various malignant phenotypes including cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as angiogenesis. This suggests UPR as a promising target in cancer therapy. The pharmacological effects of the plant Scindapsus cf. hederaceus on human cancer cell lines is not understood. In this study, we identified an ethyl acetate extract from Scindapsus cf. hederaceus (SH-EAE), which markedly altered the protein expression of UPR-related genes in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Treatment with the SH-EAE led to the dose-dependent suppression of colony forming ability of both H1299 and H460 cells, but not markedly in normal bronchial epithelial BEAS-2B cells. SH-EAE treatment also attenuated the migration and invasion ability of H1299 and H460 cells. Moreover, SH-EAE strikingly suppressed the protein expression of two ER stress sensors, including inositol requiring enzyme-1α (IRE-1α) and protein kinase R-like ER kinase (PERK), and antagonized the induction of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression by thapsigargin, an ER stress inducer. SH-EAE induced the formation of massive vacuoles which are probably derived from ER. Importantly, SH-EAE impaired the formation of intersegmental vessels (ISV) in zebrafish larvae, an index of angiogenesis, but had no apparent effect on the rate of larval development. Together, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that the ability of SH-EAE specifically targets the two sensors of UPR, with significant anti-proliferation and anti-migration activities as a crude extract in human NSCLC cells. Our finding also indicates potential applications of SH-EAE in preventing UPR activation in response to Tg-induced ER stress. We suggest that SH-EAE attenuates UPR adaptive pathways for rendering the NSCLC cells intolerant to ER stress.
Calcium-Binding Proteins S100A8 and S100A9: Investigation of Their Immune Regulatory Effect in Myeloid Cells
Authors: Yang Jianxin , Anholts Jacqueline , Kolbe Ulrike , Stegehuis-Kamp Janine A. , Claas Frans H. J. , Eikmans Michael
Published: June 2018

High expression levels of the calcium-binding proteins S100A8 and S100A9 in myeloid cells in kidney transplant rejections are associated with a favorable outcome. Here we investigated the myeloid cell subset expressing these molecules, and their function in inflammatory reactions. Different monocyte subsets were sorted from buffy coats of healthy donors and investigated for S100A8 and S100A9 expression. To characterize S100A9high and S100A9low subsets within the CD14+ classical monocyte subset, intracellular S100A9 staining was combined with flow cytometry (FACS) and qPCR profiling. Furthermore, S100A8 and S100A9 were overexpressed by transfection in primary monocyte-derived macrophages and the THP-1 macrophage cell line to investigate the functional relevance. Expression of S100A8 and S100A9 was primarily found in classical monocytes and to a much lower extent in intermediate and non-classical monocytes. All S100A9+ cells expressed human leukocyte antigen—antigen D related (HLA-DR) on their surface. A small population (<3%) of CD14+ CD11b+ CD33+ HLA-DR− cells, characterized as myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), also expressed S100A9 to high extent. Overexpression of S100A8 and S00A9 in macrophages led to enhanced extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, as well as elevated mRNA expression of anti-inflammatory IL-10. The results suggest that the calcium-binding proteins S100A8 and S100A9 in myeloid cells have an immune regulatory effect.
A Synergistic Anti-Cancer Effect of Troglitazone and Lovastatin in a Human Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Cell Line and in a Mouse Xenograft Model
Authors: Zhong Wen-Bin , Tsai Yuan-Chin , Chin Li-Han , Tseng Jen-Ho , Tang Li-Wen , Horng Steve , Fan Yu-Ching , Hsu Sung-Po
Published: June 2018

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is a malignant subtype of thyroid cancers and its mechanism of development remains inconclusive. Importantly, there is no effective strategy for treatment since ATC is not responsive to conventional therapies, including radioactive iodine therapy and thyroid-stimulating hormone suppression. Here, we report that a combinational approach consisting of drugs designed for targeting lipid metabolism, lovastatin (an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, HMGCR) and troglitazone (an agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, PPARγ), exhibits anti-proliferation in cell culture systems and leads to tumor regression in a mouse xenograft model. The composition contains a sub-lethal concentration of both drugs and exhibits low toxicity to certain types of normal cells. Our results support a hypothesis that the inhibitory effect of the combination is partly through a cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, as evidenced by the induction of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, p21cip and p27kip, and the reduction of hyperphosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (pp-Rb)-E2F1 signaling. Therefore, targeting two pathways involved in lipid metabolism may provide a new direction for treating ATC.
DPIE [2-(1,2-diphenyl-1H-indol-3-yl)ethanamine] Augments Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Production in IL-1β-Stimulated Primary Human Oral Cells
Authors: Ahn Sun-Hee , Lee Jin-Kyung , Kim Nam Doo , Kim Seok-Ho , Lee Sunwoo , Jung Seunggon , Chay Kee-Oh , Lee Tae-Hoon
Published: June 2018

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is a prominent pro-inflammatory cytokine that is implicated in a variety of autoimmune diseases and plays an important role in host defense against infections. IL-1β activity increases with its increasing binding capacity to IL-1 receptors (IL-1Rs). Thus, numerous studies have targeted the discovery of molecules modulating the interactions between IL-1β and IL-1R1. We have conducted an IL-1R1 structure-based virtual screening to identify small molecules that could alter IL-1β activity, using in silico computational analysis. Sixty compounds from commercial libraries were predicted to bind to IL-1R1, and their influence on cytokine production in IL-1β-stimulated gingival fibroblasts (GFs) was determined. Of these, only (2-(1,2-diphenyl-1H-indol-3-yl)ethanamine (DPIE) showed a synergistic increase in inflammatory molecules and cytokine production (IL-6, IL-8, and COX-2) at both mRNA and protein levels in IL-1β-stimulated GFs. The enhancing activity of DPIE in IL-1β-induced cytokine production increased in a dose-dependent manner without cytotoxicity. This pattern was also observed in IL-1β-stimulated primary human periodontal ligament cells (PDLs). Furthermore, we measured the impact of DPIE on the IL-1β–IL-1R1 system using surface plasmon resonance and demonstrated that DPIE increased the binding affinity of IL-1β to IL-1R1. These data indicate that DPIE boosts IL-1β signaling by enhancing the binding of IL-1β to IL-1R1 in oral primary cells.
N-Glycosylation Regulates Pannexin 2 Localization but Is Not Required for Interacting with Pannexin 1
Authors: Sanchez-Pupo Rafael E. , Johnston Danielle , Penuela Silvia
Published: June 2018

Pannexins (Panx1, 2, 3) are channel-forming glycoproteins expressed in mammalian tissues. We previously reported that N-glycosylation acts as a regulator of the localization and intermixing of Panx1 and Panx3, but its effects on Panx2 are currently unknown. Panx1 and Panx2 intermixing can regulate channel properties, and both pannexins have been implicated in neuronal cell death after ischemia. Our objectives were to validate the predicted N-glycosylation site of Panx2 and to study the effects of Panx2 glycosylation on localization and its capacity to interact with Panx1. We used site-directed mutagenesis, enzymatic de-glycosylation, cell-surface biotinylation, co-immunoprecipitation, and confocal microscopy. Our results showed that N86 is the only N-glycosylation site of Panx2. Panx2 and the N86Q mutant are predominantly localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and cis-Golgi matrix with limited cell surface localization was seen only in the presence of Panx1. The Panx2 N86Q mutant is glycosylation-deficient and tends to aggregate in the ER reducing its cell surface trafficking but it can still interact with Panx1. Our study indicates that N-glycosylation may be important for folding and trafficking of Panx2. We found that the un-glycosylated forms of Panx1 and 2 can readily interact, regulating their localization and potentially their channel function in cells where they are co-expressed.
Regulation of Cellular Metabolism by High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses
Authors: Martínez-Ramírez Imelda , Carrillo-García Adela , Contreras-Paredes Adriana , Ortiz-Sánchez Elizabeth , Cruz-Gregorio Alfredo , Lizano Marcela
Published: June 2018

The alteration of glucose metabolism is one of the first biochemical characteristics associated with cancer cells since most of these cells increase glucose consumption and glycolytic rates even in the presence of oxygen, which has been called “aerobic glycolysis” or the Warburg effect. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with approximately 5% of all human cancers worldwide, principally to cervical cancer. E6 and E7 are the main viral oncoproteins which are required to preserve the malignant phenotype. These viral proteins regulate the cell cycle through their interaction with tumor suppressor proteins p53 and pRB, respectively. Together with the viral proteins E5 and E2, E6 and E7 can favor the Warburg effect and contribute to radio- and chemoresistance through the increase in the activity of glycolytic enzymes, as well as the inhibition of the Krebs cycle and the respiratory chain. These processes lead to a fast production of ATP obtained by Warburg, which could help satisfy the high energy demands of cancer cells during proliferation. In this way HPV proteins could promote cancer hallmarks. However, it is also possible that during an early HPV infection, the Warburg effect could help in the achievement of an efficient viral replication.
Transcriptomics Investigation into the Mechanisms of Self-Incompatibility between Pin and Thrum Morphs of Primula maximowiczii
Authors: Lu Wanpei , Bian Xiaomeng , Yang Weiru , Cheng Tangren , Wang Jia , Zhang Qixiang , Pan Huitang
Published: June 2018

Heteromorphic self-incompatibility (SI) is an important system for preventing inbreeding in the genus Primula. However, investigations into the molecular mechanisms of Primula SI are lacking. To explore the mechanisms of SI in Primula maximowiczii, the pollen germination and fruiting rates of self- and cross-pollinations between pin and thrum morphs were investigated, and transcriptomics analyses of the pistils after pollination were performed to assess gene expression patterns in pin and thrum SI. The results indicated that P. maximowiczii exhibits strong SI and that the mechanisms of pollen tube inhibition differ between pin and thrum morphs. While self-pollen tubes of the pin morph were able to occasionally, though rarely, enter the style, those of the thrum morph were never observed to enter the style. The transcriptomics analysis of the pistils revealed 1311 and 1048 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were identified by comparing pin self-pollination (PS) vs. pin cross-pollination (PT) and thrum self-pollination (TS) vs. thrum cross-pollination (TP). Notably, about 90% of these DEGs exhibited different expression patterns in the two comparisons. Moreover, pin and thrum DEGs were associated with different Gene Ontology (GO) categories and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways following enrichment analyses. Based on our results, the molecular mechanisms underlying the pin and thrum SI in P. maximowiczii appear to be distinct. Furthermore, the genes involved in the SI processes are commonly associated with carbohydrate metabolism and environmental adaptation. These results provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms of Primula SI.
Rack Aware Data Placement for Network Consumption in Erasure-Coded Clustered Storage Systems
Authors: Shao Bilin , Song Dan , Bian Genqing , Zhao Yu
Published: June 2018

The amount of encoded data replication in an erasure-coded clustered storage system has a great impact on the bandwidth consumption and network latency, mostly during data reconstruction. Aimed at the reasons that lead to the excess data transmission between racks, a rack aware data block placement method is proposed. In order to ensure rack-level fault tolerance and reduce the frequency and amount of the cross-rack data transmission during data reconstruction, the method deploys partial data block concentration to store the data blocks of a file in fewer racks. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that our proposed strategy greatly reduces the frequency and data volume of the cross-rack transmission during data reconstruction. At the same time, it has better performance than the typical random distribution method in terms of network usage and data reconstruction efficiency.
Determination of Genetic Diversity in Chilo partellus, Busseola fusca, and Spodoptera frugiperda Infesting Sugarcane in Southern Malawi Using DNA Barcodes
Authors: Kasambala Donga Trust , Meadow Richard
Published: June 2018

Sugarcane is one of the most valuable crops in the world. Native and exotic Lepidopteran stemborers significantly limit sugarcane production. However, the identity and genetic diversity of stemborers infesting sugarcane in Malawi is unknown. The main objectives for this study were to identify and determine genetic diversity in stemborers infesting sugarcane in Malawi. We conducted field surveys between June 2016 and March 2017 in the Lower Shire Valley district of Chikwawa and Nsanje, southern Malawi. Molecular identification was based amplification the partial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene region. Phylogenetic trees for sequences were generated and published GenBank accessions for each species were constructed. We found that Malawi Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) specimens belonged to clade II, Spodoptera frugiperda sp. 1 (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Chilo partellus (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) were infesting sugarcane. Interspecific divergence ranged from 8.7% to 15.3%. Intraspecific divergence was highest for B. fusca, 3.6%. There were eight haplotypes for B. fusca, three for S. frugiperda and three for C. partellus. The importance of accurate species identification and genetic diversity on stemborer management is presented.
What Makes Management Control Information Useful in Buyer–Supplier Relationships?
Authors: Ramon-Jeronimo Juan , Florez-Lopez Raquel
Published: June 2018

Extensive research results in inconsistent findings regarding the advantages and risks of exchanging management control information in collaborative relationships between buyers and suppliers. This inconsistency is due, in part, to ignoring whether the information shared is useful. This study analyzes the influence of transaction characteristics (asset specificity, opportunistic behaviors, and resource control) on the usefulness of the format and the content of such sharing. Samples of purchasing and sales managers differ in how their assessment of this usefulness reflects the influence of transactional characteristics, as well as the format (timeliness, aggregation, and integration) and content (scope and symmetry) of the management control information itself.
(E)-3-[3-(2-Butoxyquinolin-3-yl)acryloyl]-2-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one
Authors: Abonia Rodrigo , Gutiérrez Luisa , Quiroga Jairo , Insuasty Braulio
Published: June 2018

The coumarinyl-quinolinylchalcone hybrid (E)-3-[3-(2-butoxyquinolin-3-yl)acryloyl]-2-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one 3b was prepared in good yield from a Claisen-Schmidt condensation reaction between 3-acetyl-4-hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one 1 and 2-butoxyquinoline-3-carbaldehyde 2 in methanol at reflux and catalyzed by KOH pellets. The structure of the synthesized compound 3b was fully confirmed by FTIR-ATR, (1D and 2D) NMR experiments, EIMS and elemental analysis.
Corrosion Behavior of Heat-Treated AlSi10Mg Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Cabrini Marina , Calignano Flaviana , Fino Paolo , Lorenzi Sergio , Lorusso Massimo , Manfredi Diego , Testa Cristian , Pastore Tommaso
Published: June 2018

This experimental work is aimed at studying the effect of microstructural modifications induced by post-processing heat treatments on the corrosion behavior of silicon-aluminum alloys produced by means of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The manufacturing technique leads to microstructures characterized by the presence of melt pools, which are quite different compared to casting alloys. In this study, the behavior of an AlSi10Mg alloy was evaluated by means of intergranular corrosion tests according to ISO 11846 standard on heat-treated samples ranging from 200 to 500 °C as well as on untreated samples. We found that temperatures above 200 °C reduced microhardness of the alloy, and different corrosion morphologies occurred due to the modification of both size and distribution of silicon precipitates. Selective penetrating attacks occurred at melt pool borders. The intergranular corrosion phenomena were less intense for as-produced specimens without heat treatments compared to the heat-treated specimens at 200 and 300 °C. General corrosion morphologies were noticed for specimens heat treated at temperatures exceeding 400 °C.
The Use of Glass to Optimize Bitumen Absorption of Hot Mix Asphalt Containing Recycled Construction Aggregates
Authors: Tahmoorian Farzaneh , Samali Bijan , Yeaman John , Crabb Russell
Published: June 2018

Asphalt mixtures containing recycled construction aggregates (RCA) have the problem of high bitumen absorption. This paper characterizes the effects of glass on the bitumen absorption and volumetric properties of asphalt mixtures containing 25% and 50% RCA through laboratory investigation. The materials used in the test program include C320 bitumen, RCA and recycled glass. Three glass contents of 0%, 10%, and 20% in terms of the total weight of fine aggregates are used in the mixture designs for preparing 100 mm diameter specimens containing 0%, 25% and 50% RCA, under 120 gyration cycles. Different types of tests including aggregate specification tests and volumetric analysis tests were conducted on individual aggregates and asphalt mixtures in accordance with Australian standards. The test results indicate that the glass waste can be a viable material for improving the problem of high bitumen absorption of asphalt mixtures containing RCA.
Current and Emerging Approaches to Engineer Antibacterial and Antifouling Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Kurtz Irene S. , Schiffman Jessica D.
Published: June 2018

From ship hulls to bandages, biological fouling is a ubiquitous problem that impacts a wide range of industries and requires complex engineered solutions. Eliciting materials to have antibacterial or antifouling properties describes two main approaches to delay biofouling by killing or repelling bacteria, respectively. In this review article, we discuss how electrospun nanofiber mats are blank canvases that can be tailored to have controlled interactions with biologics, which would improve the design of intelligent conformal coatings or freestanding meshes that deliver targeted antimicrobials or cause bacteria to slip off surfaces. Firstly, we will briefly discuss the established and emerging technologies for addressing biofouling through antibacterial and antifouling surface engineering, and then highlight the recent advances in incorporating these strategies into electrospun nanofibers. These strategies highlight the potential for engineering electrospun nanofibers to solicit specific microbial responses for human health and environmental applications.
Study on the Synergetic Fire-Retardant Effect of Nano-Sb2O3 in PBT Matrix
Authors: Niu Lei , Xu Jianlin , Yang Wenlong , Ma Jiqiang , Zhao Jinqiang , Kang Chenghu , Su Jiaqiang
Published: June 2018

Nano-Sb2O3 has excellent synergistic flame-retardant effects. It can effectively improve the comprehensive physical and mechanical properties of composites, reduce the use of flame retardants, save resources, and protect the environment. In this work, nanocomposites specimens were prepared by the melt-blending method. The thermal stability, mechanical properties, and flame retardancy of a nano-Sb2O3–brominated epoxy resin (BEO)–poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) composite were analyzed, using TGA and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), coupled with EDX analysis, tensile testing, cone calorimeter tests, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and flammability tests (limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL94). SEM observations showed that the nano-Sb2O3 particles were homogeneously distributed within the PBT matrix, and the thermal stability of PBT was improved. Moreover, the degree of crystallinity and the tensile strength were improved, as a result of the superior dispersion and interfacial interactions between nano-Sb2O3 and PBT. At the same time, the limiting oxygen index and flame-retardant grade were increased as the nano-Sb2O3 content increased. The results from the cone calorimeter test showed that the peak heat release rate (PHRR), total heat release rate (THR), peak carbon dioxide production (PCO2P), and peak carbon monoxide production (PCOP) of the nanocomposites were obviously reduced, compared to those of the neat PBT matrix. Meanwhile, the SEM–energy dispersive spectrometry (EDX) analysis of the residues indicated that a higher amount of C element was left, thus the charring layer of the nanocomposites was compact. This showed that nano-Sb2O3 could promote the degradation and charring of the PBT matrix, improving thermal stability and flame retardation.
Complexity and Anisotropy of Plastic Flow of α-Ti Probed by Acoustic Emission and Local Extensometry
Authors: Lebyodkin Mikhail , Amouzou Kékéli , Lebedkina Tatiana , Richeton Thiebaud , Roth Amandine
Published: June 2018

Current progress in the prediction of mechanical behavior of solids requires understanding of spatiotemporal complexity of plastic flow caused by self-organization of crystal defects. It may be particularly important in hexagonal materials because of their strong anisotropy and combination of different mechanisms of plasticity, such as dislocation glide and twinning. These materials often display complex behavior even on the macroscopic scale of deformation curves, e.g., a peculiar three-stage elastoplastic transition, the origin of which is a matter of debates. The present work is devoted to a multiscale study of plastic flow in α-Ti, based on simultaneous recording of deformation curves, 1D local strain field, and acoustic emission (AE). It is found that the average AE activity also reveals three-stage behavior, but in a qualitatively different way depending on the crystallographic orientation of the sample axis. On the finer scale, the statistical analysis of AE events and local strain rates testifies to an avalanche-like character of dislocation processes, reflected in power-law probability distribution functions. The results are discussed from the viewpoint of collective dislocation dynamics and are confronted to predictions of a recent micromechanical model of Ti strain hardening.
Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of PEO Coatings Formed on KBM10 Mg Alloy Pretreated with Nd(NO3)3
Authors: Lu Junpeng , He Xing , Li Hongxia , Song Renguo
Published: June 2018

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) technique is one of the important methods used in the surface modification of magnesium alloys. In this paper, the ceramic coatings on pretreated KBM10 magnesium alloy with Nd(NO3)3 solution were prepared by PEO. The effects of Nd(NO3)3 solution concentration on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of PEO coatings on magnesium alloys were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and electrochemical workstation. It was found that the surface of the coatings was porous after PEO, and element Nd could be deposited on the surface of the coatings by pretreatment and existed in the PEO coatings. The coating formed at Nd(NO3)3 solution concentration of 0.06 mol/L exhibited the best corrosion resistance among all the as-prepared coatings.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Magnetic Properties of Lanthanide (III) Amino-Phosphonate Complexes
Authors: Zangana Karzan H.
Published: June 2018

Two isostructural lanthanide amino-phosphonate complexes [Ln10(μ3-OH)3(µ-OH)(CO3)2(O2CtBu)15(O3PC6H10NH2)3(O3PC6H10NH3)2(H2O)2][Et2NH2] (Ln = Gd(III), 1 and Tb(III), 2) have been obtained through reflux reactions of lanthanide pivalates with, a functionalized phosphonate, (1-amino-1-cyclohexyl)phosphonic acid and diethylamine (Et2NH) in acetonitrile (MeCN) at 90 °C. Both compounds have been characterized with elemental analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods, and magnetic measurements. The molecular structure of compounds 1 and 2 reveal two highly unsymmetrical complexes comprising ten lanthanide metal centers, where the lanthanide metal ion centers in the cages are linked through pivalate units and further interconnected by CPO3 tetrahedra to build the crystal structure. The magnetic behavior of 1 and 2 was investigated between ambient temperature and ca. 2 K, the magnetic measurements for compound 1 suggests antiferromagnetic interactions between the Gd(III) metal ion centers at low temperatures. The large number of isotropic Gd(III) ions comprising 1 makes it a candidate for magnetocaloric applications, thus the magnetocaloric properties of this molecular cage were investigated indirectly through isothermal magnetisation curves. The magnetic entropy change was found to be 34.5 J kg−1K−1, making 1 a plausible candidate in magnetic cooling applications.
Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Antiproliferative Activities of Corymbia citriodora and the Essential Oils of Eight Eucalyptus Species
Authors: Miguel Maria Graça , Gago Custódia , Antunes Maria Dulce , Lagoas Soraia , Faleiro Maria Leonor , Megías Cristina , Cortés-Giraldo Isabel , Vioque Javier , Figueiredo Ana Cristina
Published: June 2018

Background: Essential oils (EOs) have shown antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activity, which may, alone or in combination with other substances, potentially be used for the development of new drugs. However, their chemical variability, depending on the species, varieties, or geographical origin (among other factors) determines different bioactivities that need to be evaluated. Methods: The antioxidant activity of Corymbia citriodora and eight Eucalyptus species EOs was determined using two different methods: the scavenging ability of 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS+•) and peroxyl free radicals or oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the microorganisms Streptococcus pneumoniae (strains D39 and TIGR4), and Haemophilus influenza (strain DSM 9999). The essential oils’ minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was assessed using a microdilution method. The antiproliferative activity was determined using the THP-1 cell line (human acute monocytic leukaemia) with methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay (MTT). Results:Corymbia citriodora and Eucalyptus viminalis EOs showed the highest ABTS and peroxyl free radical scavenging capacity. Eucalyptus globulus EO showed a high potential to treat Streptococcus pneumoniae infections. Haemophilus influenzae was the respiratory pathogen that showed the highest resistance to all EOs, including tea tree EO. After 96 h of incubation, at 25 μg/mL, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus viminalis EOs showed highest cytotoxic activity against the THP-1 cell line. Conclusions: Despite their specific bioactivities, no single EO showed simultaneously good antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activity.
Chemical Vapor Deposition of Photocatalyst Nanoparticles on PVDF Membranes for Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: De Filpo Giovanni , Pantuso Elvira , Armentano Katia , Formoso Patrizia , Di Profio Gianluca , Poerio Teresa , Fontananova Enrica , Meringolo Carmen , Mashin Alexander I. , Nicoletta Fiore P.
Published: June 2018

The chemical binding of photocatalytic materials, such as TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles, onto porous polymer membranes requires a series of chemical reactions and long purification processes, which often result in small amounts of trapped nanoparticles with reduced photocatalytic activity. In this work, a chemical vapor deposition technique was investigated in order to allow the nucleation and growth of ZnO and TiO2 nanoparticles onto polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) porous membranes for application in advanced oxidation processes. The thickness of obtained surface coatings by sputtered nanoparticles was found to depend on process conditions. The photocatalytic efficiency of sputtered membranes was tested against both a model drug and a model organic pollutant in a small continuous flow reactor.
Research on Selective Laser Melting of Ti6Al4V: Surface Morphologies, Optimized Processing Zone, and Ductility Improvement Mechanism
Authors: Wang Di , Dou Wenhao , Yang Yongqiang
Published: June 2018

The quality and mechanical properties of titanium alloy fabricated using selective laser melting (SLM) are critical to the adoption of the process which has long been impeded by the lack of uniformity in SLM-fabrication parameter optimization. In order to address this problem, laser power and scanning speed were combined into linear energy density as an independent variable, while surface morphology was defined as a metric. Based on full-factor experiments, the surface quality of SLM-fabricated titanium alloy was classified into five zones: severe over-melting zone, high-energy density nodulizing zone, smooth forming zone, low-energy density nodulizing zone, and sintering zone. The mechanism resulting in the creation of each zone was analyzed. Parameter uniformity was achieved by establishing a parameter window for each zone, and it also revealed that under smooth forming conditions, the relationship of linear energy density to the quality of the formed surface is not linear. It was also found that fabrication efficiency could be improved in the condition of the formation of a smooth surface by increasing laser power and scanning speed. In addition, maximum elongation of the SLM-fabricated titanium alloy increased when the densified parts were processed using an appropriate heat treatment, from a low value of 5.79% to 10.28%. The mechanisms of change in ductility of the alloy were thoroughly analyzed from the perspectives of surface microstructure and fracture morphology. Results indicate that after heat treatment, the microcosmic structure of the alloy was converted from acicular martensite α’ phase to a layered α+β double-phase structure, the fracture type also changed from quasi-cleavage to ductile fracture.