bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential Environmental Impact of PAHs on Soil and Water Resources in Air Deposited Coal Refuse Sites in Niangziguan Karst Catchment, Northern China
Authors: Li Chengcheng , Zhang Xin , Gao Xubo , Qi Shihua , Wang Yanxin
Published: April 2019

Long-term deposition of coal spoil piles may lead to serious pollution of soil and water resources in the dumping sites and surrounding areas. Karst aquifers are highly sensitive to environmental pollution. In this study, the occurrence and release/mobilization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in coal waste and coal spoils fire gas mineral (CSFGM) were evaluated by field and indoor investigations at Yangquan city, one of the major coal mining districts in the karst areas of northern China. Field investigations showed that dumping of coal waste over decades has resulted in soil and water pollution via spontaneous combustion and leaching of coal spoil piles. Indoor analysis revealed that the 2-ring and 3-ring PAHs contribute to 65–80% of the total PAHs in coal spoils, with naphthalene (Nap), Chrysene (Chr), and Phenanthrene (Phe) as the dominant compounds. Based on a heating/burning simulation experiment, the production of PAHs is temperature-dependent and mainly consists of low-ring PAHs: 2-ring, 3-ring, and part of the 4-ring PAHs. The PAHs in the leachate are light-PAHs (Nap, 20.06 ng/L; Phe, 4.76 ng/L) with few heavy-PAHs. The distribution modes of PAHs in two soil profiles suggest that the precipitation caused downward movement of PAHs and higher mobility of light-PAHs.
Comment on Di Marco, N., Kaufman, J., Rodda, C.P. Shedding Light on Vitamin D Status and Its Complexities during Pregnancy, Infancy and Childhood: An Australian Perspective. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16 (4), 538, doi:10.3390/ijerph16040538
Authors: Boucher Barbara
Published: April 2019

In their report on the roles of vitamin D status during early life development in Australia, Di Marco et al [...]
Flooding in Townsville, North Queensland, Australia, in February 2019 and Its Effects on Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Authors: Adekunle Adeshina I. , Adegboye Oyelola A. , Rahman Kazi Mizanur
Published: April 2019

In February 2019, a major flooding event occurred in Townsville, North Queensland, Australia. Here we present a prediction of the occurrence of mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) after the flooding. We used a mathematical modelling approach based on mosquito population abundance, survival, and size as well as current infectiousness to predict the changes in the occurrences of MBDs due to flooding in the study area. Based on 2019 year-to-date number of notifiable MBDs, we predicted an increase in number of cases, with a peak at 104 by one-half month after the flood receded. The findings in this study indicate that Townsville may see an upsurge in the cases of MBDs in the coming days. However, the burden of diseases will go down again if the mosquito control program being implemented by the City Council continues. As our predictions focus on the near future, longer term effects of flooding on the occurrence of mosquito-borne diseases need to be studied further.
Correction: Lu, J. et al. Caveolin-1 Scaffolding Domain Peptides Alleviate Liver Fibrosis by Inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad Signaling in Mice. Int. J. Mol. Sci., 2018, 19, 1729
Authors: Lu Jing , Zhang Jie , Wang Yan , Sun Quan
Published: April 2019

The author wishes to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Dual Role of Bile Acids on the Biliary Epithelium: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Baiocchi Leonardo , Zhou Tianhao , Liangpunsakul Suthat , Lenci Ilaria , Santopaolo Francesco , Meng Fanyin , Kennedy Lindsey , Glaser Shannon , Francis Heather , Alpini Gianfranco
Published: April 2019

Bile acids are a family of amphipathic compounds predominantly known for their role in solubilizing and absorbing hydrophobic compounds (including liposoluble vitamins) in the intestine. Bile acids also are key signaling molecules and inflammatory agents that activate transcriptional factors and cell signaling pathways that regulate lipid, glucose, and energy metabolism in various human disorders, including chronic liver diseases. However, in the last decade increased awareness has been founded on the physiological and chemical heterogeneity of this category of compounds and their possible beneficial or injurious effects on the biliary tree. In this review, we provide an update on the current understanding of the molecular mechanism involving bile acid and biliary epithelium. The last achievements of the research in this field are summarized, focusing on the molecular aspects and the elements with relevance regarding human liver diseases.
C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 14 is a Unique Multifunctional Regulator of Tumor Progression
Authors: Yang Xiao-Yan , Ozawa Shigeyuki , Kato Yasumasa , Maehata Yojiro , Izukuri Kazuhito , Ikoma Takeharu , Kanamori Keisuke , Akasaka Tetsu , Suzuki Kenji , Iwabuchi Hiroshi , Kurata Shun-Ichi , Katoh Iyoko , Sakurai Takashi , Kiyono Tohru , Hata Ryu-Ichiro
Published: April 2019

Cancer is a leading cause of death and disease worldwide, with a tremendous financial impact. Thus, the development of cost-effective novel approaches for suppressing tumor growth and progression is essential. In an attempt to identify the mechanisms responsible for tumor suppression, we screened for molecules downregulated in a cancer progression model and found that the chemokine CXCL14, also called BRAK, was the most significantly downregulated. Increasing the production of CXCL14 protein by transfecting tumor cells with a CXCL14 expression vector and transplanting the cells into the back skin of immunodeficient mice suppressed tumor cell growth compared with that of parental tumor cells, suggesting that CXCL14 suppressed tumor growth in vivo. However, some studies have reported that over-expression of CXCL14, especially in stromal cells, stimulated the progression of tumor formation. Transgenic mice expressing 10-fold more CXCL14 protein than wild-type C57BL/6 mice showed reduced rates of chemical carcinogenesis, transplanted tumor growth, and metastasis without apparent side effects. CXCL14 also acts as an antimicrobial molecule. In this review, we highlight recent studies involving the identification and characterization of CXCL14 in cancer progression and discuss the reasons for the context-dependent effects of CXCL14 on tumor formation.
The Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid (SAHA) Restores Cardiomyocyte Contractility in a Rat Model of Early Diabetes
Authors: Bocchi Leonardo , Motta Benedetta M. , Savi Monia , Vilella Rocchina , Meraviglia Viviana , Rizzi Federica , Galati Serena , Buschini Annamaria , Lazzaretti Mirca , Pramstaller Peter P. , Rossini Alessandra , Stilli Donatella
Published: April 2019

In early diabetes, hyperglycemia and the associated metabolic dysregulation promote early changes in the functional properties of cardiomyocytes, progressively leading to the appearance of the diabetic cardiomyopathy phenotype. Recently, the interplay between histone acetyltransferases (HAT) and histone deacetylases (HDAC) has emerged as a crucial factor in the development of cardiac disorders. The present study evaluates whether HDAC inhibition can prevent the development of cardiomyocyte contractile dysfunction induced by a short period of hyperglycemia, with focus on the potential underlying mechanisms. Cell contractility and calcium dynamics were measured in unloaded ventricular myocytes isolated from the heart of control and diabetic rats. Cardiomyocytes were either untreated or exposed to the pan-HDAC inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) for 90 min. Then, a fraction of each group of cells was used to evaluate the expression levels of proteins involved in the excitation–contraction coupling, and the cardiomyocyte metabolic activity, ATP content, and reactive oxygen species levels. SAHA treatment was able to counteract the initial functional derangement in cardiomyocytes by reducing cell oxidative damage. These findings suggest that early HDAC inhibition could be a promising adjuvant approach for preventing diabetes-induced cardiomyocyte oxidative damage, which triggers the pro-inflammatory signal cascade, mitochondrial damage, and ventricular dysfunction.
PRRs and NB-LRRs: From Signal Perception to Activation of Plant Innate Immunity
Authors: Noman Ali , Aqeel Muhammad , Lou Yonggen
Published: April 2019

To ward off pathogens and pests, plants use a sophisticated immune system. They use pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), as well as nucleotide-binding and leucine-rich repeat (NB-LRR) domains, for detecting nonindigenous molecular signatures from pathogens. Plant PRRs induce local and systemic immunity. Plasma-membrane-localized PRRs are the main components of multiprotein complexes having additional transmembrane and cytosolic kinases. Topical research involving proteins and their interactive partners, along with transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation, has extended our understanding of R-gene-mediated plant immunity. The unique LRR domain conformation helps in the best utilization of a surface area and essentially mediates protein–protein interactions. Genome-wide analyses of inter- and intraspecies PRRs and NB-LRRs offer innovative information about their working and evolution. We reviewed plant immune responses with relevance to PRRs and NB-LRRs. This article focuses on the significant functional diversity, pathogen-recognition mechanisms, and subcellular compartmentalization of plant PRRs and NB-LRRs. We highlight the potential biotechnological application of PRRs and NB-LRRs to enhance broad-spectrum disease resistance in crops.
Transcriptional Regulation Factors of the Human Mitochondrial Aspartate/Glutamate Carrier Gene, Isoform 2 (SLC25A13): USF1 as Basal Factor and FOXA2 as Activator in Liver Cells
Authors: Convertini Paolo , Todisco Simona , De Santis Francesco , Pappalardo Ilaria , Iacobazzi Dominga , Castiglione Morelli Maria Antonietta , Fondufe-Mittendorf Yvonne N. , Martelli Giuseppe , Palmieri Ferdinando , Infantino Vittoria
Published: April 2019

Mitochondrial carriers catalyse the translocation of numerous metabolites across the inner mitochondrial membrane, playing a key role in different cell functions. For this reason, mitochondrial carrier gene expression needs tight regulation. The human SLC25A13 gene, encoding for the mitochondrial aspartate/glutamate carrier isoform 2 (AGC2), catalyses the electrogenic exchange of aspartate for glutamate plus a proton, thus taking part in many metabolic processes including the malate-aspartate shuttle. By the luciferase (LUC) activity of promoter deletion constructs we identified the putative promoter region, comprising the proximal promoter (−442 bp/−19 bp), as well as an enhancer region (−968 bp/−768 bp). Furthermore, with different approaches, such as in silico promoter analysis, gene silencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation, we identified two transcription factors responsible for SLC25A13 transcriptional regulation: FOXA2 and USF1. USF1 acts as a positive transcription factor which binds to the basal promoter thus ensuring SLC25A13 gene expression in a wide range of tissues. The role of FOXA2 is different, working as an activator in hepatic cells. As a tumour suppressor, FOXA2 could be responsible for SLC25A13 high expression levels in liver and its downregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
The Major Storage Protein in Potato Tuber Is Mobilized by a Mechanism Dependent on Its Phosphorylation Status
Authors: Bernal Javier , Mouzo Daniel , López-Pedrouso María , Franco Daniel , García Lucio , Zapata Carlos
Published: April 2019

The role of the protein phosphorylation mechanism in the mobilization of vegetative storage proteins (VSPs) is totally unknown. Patatin is the major VSP of the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tuber that encompasses multiple differentially phosphorylated isoforms. In this study, temporal changes in the phosphorylation status of patatin isoforms and their involvement in patatin mobilization are investigated using phosphoproteomic methods based on targeted two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE). High-resolution 2-DE profiles of patatin isoforms were obtained in four sequential tuber life cycle stages of Kennebec cultivar: endodormancy, bud break, sprouting and plant growth. In-gel multiplex identification of phosphorylated isoforms with Pro-Q Diamond phosphoprotein-specific stain revealed an increase in the number of phosphorylated isoforms after the tuber endodormancy stage. In addition, we found that the phosphorylation status of patatin isoforms significantly changed throughout the tuber life cycle (P < 0.05) using the chemical method of protein dephosphorylation with hydrogen fluoride-pyridine (HF-P) coupled to 2-DE. More specifically, patatin phosphorylation increased by 32% from endodormancy to the tuber sprouting stage and subsequently decreased together with patatin degradation. Patatin isoforms were not randomly mobilized because highly phosphorylated Kuras-isoforms were preferably degraded in comparison to less phosphorylated non-Kuras isoforms. These results lead us to conclude that patatin is mobilized by a mechanism dependent on the phosphorylation status of specific isoforms.
Pitaya HpWRKY3 Is Associated with Fruit Sugar Accumulation by Transcriptionally Modulating Sucrose Metabolic Genes HpINV2 and HpSuSy1
Authors: Wei Wei , Cheng Mei-nv , Ba Liang-jie , Zeng Run-xi , Luo Dong-lan , Qin Yong-hua , Liu Zong-li , Kuang Jian-fei , Lu Wang-jin , Chen Jian-ye , Su Xin-guo , Shan Wei
Published: April 2019

Sugar level is an important determinant of fruit taste and consumer preferences. However, upstream regulators that control sugar accumulation during fruit maturation are poorly understood. In the present work, we found that glucose is the main sugar in mature pitaya (Hylocereus) fruit, followed by fructose and sucrose. Expression levels of two sucrose-hydrolyzing enzyme genes HpINV2 and HpSuSy1 obviously increased during fruit maturation, which were correlated well with the elevated accumulation of glucose and fructose. A WRKY transcription factor HpWRKY3 was further identified as the putative binding protein of the HpINV2 and HpSuSy1 promoters by yeast one-hybrid and gel mobility shift assays. HpWRKY3 was localized exclusively in the nucleus and possessed trans-activation ability. HpWRKY3 exhibited the similar expression pattern with HpINV2 and HpSuSy1. Finally, transient expression assays in tobacco leaves showed that HpWRKY3 activated the expressions of HpINV2 and HpSuSy1. Taken together, we propose that HpWRKY3 is associated with pitaya fruit sugar accumulation by activating the transcriptions of sucrose metabolic genes. Our findings thus shed light on the transcriptional mechanism that regulates the sugar accumulation during pitaya fruit quality formation.
Unveiling the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Anti-Interleukin-1 Treatment in Monogenic and Multifactorial Autoinflammatory Diseases
Authors: Bettiol Alessandra , Lopalco Giuseppe , Emmi Giacomo , Cantarini Luca , Urban Maria Letizia , Vitale Antonio , Denora Nunzio , Lopalco Antonio , Cutrignelli Annalisa , Lopedota Angela , Venerito Vincenzo , Fornaro Marco , Vannacci Alfredo , Rigante Donato , Cimaz Rolando , Iannone Florenzo
Published: April 2019

Autoinflammatory diseases (AIDs) are heterogeneous disorders characterized by dysregulation in the inflammasome, a large intracellular multiprotein platform, leading to overproduction of interleukin-1(IL-1)β that plays a predominant pathogenic role in such diseases. Appropriate treatment is crucial, also considering that AIDs may persist into adulthood with negative consequences on patients’ quality of life. IL-1β blockade results in a sustained reduction of disease severity in most AIDs. A growing experience with the human IL-1 receptor antagonist, Anakinra (ANA), and the monoclonal anti IL-1β antibody, Canakinumab (CANA), has also been engendered, highlighting their efficacy upon protean clinical manifestations of AIDs. Safety and tolerability have been confirmed by several clinical trials and observational studies on both large and small cohorts of AID patients. The same treatment has been proposed in refractory Kawasaki disease, an acute inflammatory vasculitis occurring in children before 5 years, which has been postulated to be autoinflammatory for its phenotypical and immunological similarity with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Nevertheless, minor concerns about IL-1 antagonists have been raised regarding their employment in children, and the development of novel pharmacological formulations is aimed at minimizing side effects that may affect adherence to treatment. The present review summarizes current findings on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of ANA and CANA for treatment of AIDs and Kawasaki vasculitis with a specific focus on the pediatric setting.
Targeting Tyrosine kinases in Renal Cell Carcinoma: “New Bullets against Old Guys”
Authors: Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , García-Bermejo María Laura , Grande Enrique , Garrido Pilar , Carrato Alfredo , Molina-Cerrillo Javier
Published: April 2019

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the seventh most frequently diagnosed tumor in adults in Europe and represents approximately 2.5% of cancer deaths. The molecular biology underlying renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development and progression has been a key milestone in the management of this type of tumor. The discovery of Von Hippel Lindau (VHL) gene alterations that arouse in 50% of ccRCC patients, leads the identification of an intracellular accumulation of HIF and, consequently an increase of VEGFR expression. This change in cell biology represents a new paradigm in the treatment of metastatic renal cancer by targeting angiogenesis. Currently, there are multiple therapeutic drugs available for advanced disease, including therapies against VEGFR with successful results in patients´ survival. Other tyrosine kinases’ pathways, including PDGFR, Axl or MET have emerged as key signaling pathways involved in RCC biology. Indeed, promising new drugs targeting those tyrosine kinases have exhibited outstanding efficacy. In this review we aim to present an overview of the central role of these tyrosine kinases’ activities in relevant biological processes for kidney cancer and their usefulness in RCC targeted therapy development. In the immunotherapy era, angiogenesis is still an “old guy” that the medical community is trying to fight using “new bullets”.
The Effects of Astragalus membranaceus Active Extracts on Autophagy-Related Diseases
Authors: Shan Hao , Zheng Xueping , Li Min
Published: April 2019

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved ‘self-eating’ process that maintains cellular, tissue, and organismal homeostasis. New studies on autophagy, mediated by subsets of autophagy proteins, are emerging in many physiological and pathological processes. Astragalus membranaceus (AM), also named Huangqi, is one of the fundamental herbs in traditional Chinese medicine and its extracts have been proved to possess many biological activities related to autophagy, including anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anticancer, anti-photoaging, and improvement of cardiomyocyte function. Evidence suggests that AM extracts can have therapeutic potential in autophagy dysregulation-associated diseases because of their biological positive effects. Here we will review the literature concerning the effects of AM extracts on autophagy dysregulation-associated diseases.
Goeckerman Therapy of Psoriasis: Genotoxicity, Dietary Micronutrients, Homocysteine, and MTHFR Gene Polymorphisms
Authors: Beranek Martin , Malkova Andrea , Fiala Zdenek , Kremlacek Jan , Hamakova Kvetoslava , Zaloudkova Lenka , Borsky Pavel , Adamus Tomas , Palicka Vladimir , Borska Lenka
Published: April 2019

Goeckerman therapy (GT) of psoriasis vulgaris is based on the application of crude coal tar and ultraviolet radiation. We investigated DNA damage by the number of micronucleated binucleated cells (MNBC) in lymphocytes, serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, folic acid, and two polymorphisms (C677T and A1298C) in the MTHFR gene in 35 patients with exacerbated psoriasis vulgaris classified according to the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score and treated by GT. The median of PASI score decreased from nineteen to five, and MNBC increased from 10 to 18‰ after GT (p < 0.001 in both cases). Correlations of MNBC with homocysteine (Spearman’s rho = 0.420, p = 0.012) and vitamin B12 (rho = −0.389, p = 0.021) before the therapy were observed. Hyperhomocysteinemia was an independent predictor of genotoxicity (OR 9.91; 95% CI, 2.09–55.67; p = 0.003). Homocysteine was higher in females than in males (13 vs. 12 µmol/L, p = 0.045). In contrast, vitamin B12 levels in the females were lower than in the males (160 vs. 192 pmol/L, p = 0.047). Vitamin B12 in the females were negatively influenced by smoking status (160 pmol/L in smokers vs. 192 pmol/L in non-smokers, p = 0.025). A significantly higher MNBC was found in CC homozygous patients (A1298C polymorphism) than in AC heterozygotes (32 vs. 16‰, p = 0.005) and AA homozygotes (32 vs. 18‰, p = 0.036). Our data showed that homocysteine participates in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Its serum levels correlated with MNBC and allowed the prediction of DNA damage to appear within GT. Both micronutrients status and homocysteine metabolic pathway contribute to the genotoxicity of GT.
Effects of Intraoperative Nefopam on Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort in Patients Undergoing Robotic Nephrectomy: A Randomized Double-Blind Study
Authors: In Chi-Bum , Jeon Young-Tae , Oh Ah-Young , Jin Se-Jong , Park Byeong-Seon , Choi Eun-Su
Published: April 2019

Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) is one of the most difficult symptoms during the postoperative period. Nefopam is a non-narcotic analgesic agent, which also has anticholinergic action. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of nefopam on CRBD in male patients undergoing robotic nephrectomy. A total of 109 male patients were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n = 55) received 20 mL of normal saline, and the nefopam group (n = 54) received 20 mg of nefopam 1 h before the end of the operation. At postoperative times of 20 min, 1 h, 2 h, and 6 h, the severity of CRBD was measured using an 11-point numeric rating scale, respectively. The severity of CRBD in the nefopam group was significantly lower than that in the control group at 20 min (4.8 ± 1.3 vs. 2.3 ± 1.0, respectively, p = 0.012) and at 1, 2, and 6 h (3.5 ± 1.2, 2.7 ± 0.9, and 2.5 ± 1.0 vs. 4.1 ± 0.8, 1.6 ± 0.8, and 1.3 ± 0.6, respectively, p < 0001). Intraoperative nefopam administration reduced the severity of CRBD in patients undergoing robotic nephrectomy.
Advanced Evolution of Pathogenesis Concepts in Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Li Chia-Jung , Chen Chien-Sheng , Yiang Giou-Teng , Tsai Andy Po-Yi , Liao Wan-Ting , Wu Meng-Yu
Published: April 2019

Cardiomyopathy is a group of heterogeneous cardiac diseases that impair systolic and diastolic function, and can induce chronic heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Cardiomyopathy is prevalent in the general population, with high morbidity and mortality rates, and contributes to nearly 20% of sudden cardiac deaths in younger individuals. Genetic mutations associated with cardiomyopathy play a key role in disease formation, especially the mutation of sarcomere encoding genes and ATP kinase genes, such as titin, lamin A/C, myosin heavy chain 7, and troponin T1. Pathogenesis of cardiomyopathy occurs by multiple complex steps involving several pathways, including the Ras-Raf-mitogen-activated protein kinase-extracellular signal-activated kinase pathway, G-protein signaling, mechanotransduction pathway, and protein kinase B/phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling. Excess biomechanical stress induces apoptosis signaling in cardiomyocytes, leading to cell loss, which can induce myocardial fibrosis and remodeling. The clinical features and pathophysiology of cardiomyopathy are discussed. Although several basic and clinical studies have investigated the mechanism of cardiomyopathy, the detailed pathophysiology remains unclear. This review summarizes current concepts and focuses on the molecular mechanisms of cardiomyopathy, especially in the signaling from mutation to clinical phenotype, with the aim of informing the development of therapeutic interventions.
Associations of Adiposity and Diet Quality with Serum Ceramides in Middle-Aged Adults with Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Drazba Margaret A. , Holásková Ida , Sahyoun Nadine R. , Ventura Marra Melissa
Published: April 2019

Rates of adverse cardiovascular events have increased among middle-aged adults. Elevated ceramides have been proposed as a risk factor for cardiovascular events. Diet quality and weight status are inversely associated with several traditional risk factors; however, the relationship to ceramides is less clear. This study aimed to determine associations of adiposity and diet quality with circulating ceramides in middle-aged adults (n = 96). Diet quality was estimated using the Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015). Serum ceramide concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. A ceramide risk score was determined based on ceramides C16:0, C18:0, and C24:1 and their ratios to C24:0. Participants who were classified as at ‘moderate risk’ compared to ‘lower-risk’ based on a ceramide risk score had significantly higher body mass index (BMI) values, as well as higher rates of elevated fibrinogen levels, metabolic syndrome, and former smoking status. BMI was positively associated with the ceramide C18:0 (R2 = 0.31, p < 0.0001), the ratio between C18:0/C24:0 ceramides (R2 = 0.30, p < 0.0001), and the ceramide risk score (R2 = 0.11, p < 0.009). Total HEI-2015 scores (R2 = 0.42, p = 0.02), higher intakes of vegetables (R2 = 0.44, p = 0.02) and whole grains (R2 = 0.43, p = 0.03), and lower intakes of saturated fats (R2 = 0.43, p = 0.04) and added sugar (R2 = 0.44, p = 0.01) were associated with lower C22:0 values. These findings suggest that circulating ceramides are more strongly related to adiposity than overall diet quality. Studies are needed to determine if improvements in weight status result in lower ceramides and ceramide risk scores.
Electrochemical Oxidation/Disinfection of Urine Wastewaters with Different Anode Materials
Authors: Dbira Sondos , Bensalah Nasr , Ahmad Mohammad I. , Bedoui Ahmed
Published: April 2019

In the present work, electrochemical technology was used simultaneously for the deactivation of microorganisms and the destruction of micro-pollutants contained in synthetic urine wastewaters. Microorganisms (E. coli) were added to synthetic urine wastewaters to mimic secondary treated sewage wastewaters. Different anode materials were employed including boron-doped diamond (BDD), dimensionally stable anode (DSA: IrO2 and RuO2) and platinum (Pt). The results showed that for the different anode materials, a complete deactivation of E. coli microorganisms at low applied electric charge (1.34 Ah dm−3) was obtained. The complete deactivation of microorganisms in wastewater seems to be directly related to active chlorine and oxygen species electrochemically produced at the surface of the anode material. Complete depletion of COD and TOC can be attained during electrolyses with BDD anode after the consumption of specific electric charges of 4.0 and 8.0 Ah dm−3, respectively. Higher specific electric charges (>25 Ah dm−3) were consumed to removal completely COD and about 75% of TOC during electrolyses with DSA anodes (IrO2 and RuO2). However, the electrolysis using Pt anode can partially remove and even after the consumption of high specific electric charges (>40 Ah dm−3) COD and TOC did not exceed 50 and 25%, respectively. Active chlorine species including hypochlorite ions and chloramines formed during electrolysis contribute not only to deactivate microorganisms but also to degrade organics compounds. High conversion yields of organic nitrogen into nitrates and ammonium were achieved during electrolysis BDD and DSA anodes. The results have confirmed that BDD anode is more efficient than with IrO2, RuO2 and Pt electrodes in terms of COD and TOC removals. However, higher amounts of perchlorates were measured at the end of the electrolysis using BDD anode.
On-line Writing of Fiber Bragg Grating Array on a Two-mode Optical Fiber for Sensing Applications
Authors: Yu Haihu , Gao Wenjing , Jiang Xin , Guo Huiyong , Jiang Shan , Zheng Yu
Published: April 2019

On-line fabricated fiber Bragg grating (FBG) array and its sensing potentials have attracted plenty of attention in recent years. In this paper, FBG arrays are written on-line on a two-mode fiber, and this two-mode fiber Bragg grating (TM-FBG) is further experimentally investigated for temperature and curvature sensing. The responses of this sensor were characterized by 11.2 pm/°C and −0.21 dB/m−1 for temperature and curvature, respectively. Based on the measurements, a dual-parameter fiber sensing system was developed, which can realize the quasi-distributed, simultaneous detection of temperature and curvature, making it suitable for structural health monitoring or perimeter security.
Sonochemical Synthesis of Ce-doped TiO2 Nanostructure: A Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalyst for Degradation of Toluene and O-Xylene
Authors: Lee Joon Yeob , Choi Jeong-Hak
Published: April 2019

Ce-doped TiO2 nanostructures (CeT) with different amounts of Ce (0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt. %) were synthesized using a sonochemical processing method. The physicochemical properties of the prepared samples were explored using UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), field-emission TEM (FE-TEM), XRD, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), and surface area and pore size analyzers. The photocatalytic performance of the prepared CeT was assessed by monitoring their degradation efficiencies for gaseous toluene and o-xylene—widely known as significant indoor air pollutants—under daylight irradiation. The prepared CeT exhibited significantly improved photocatalytic performance towards the degradation of toluene and o-xylene, which was much higher than that observed for pure TiO2 and commercial P25 TiO2. Particularly, photocatalytic degradation efficiencies by the prepared CeT catalysts increased remarkably in the case of o-xylene (up to 99.4%) compared to toluene (up to 49.1%). The degradation efficiency by the CeT was greatest for the CeT-0.75 sample, followed by, in order, CeT-1.0, CeT-0.5, CeT-1.5, and CeT-2.0 samples in agreement with the order of the surface area and the particle size of the catalysts. According to the change of light source, the average decomposition efficiencies for toluene and o-xylene by CeT-0.75 were shown in the order of conventional daylight lamp > violet light emitting diodes (LEDs) > white LEDs. The decomposition efficiencies normalized to supplied electric power, however, were estimated to be in the following order of violet LEDs > white LEDs > conventional daylight lamp, indicating that the LEDs could be a much more energy efficient light source for the photodecomposition of target toluene and o-xylene using the CeT-0.75 photocatalyst.
Synthesis and Effect of Encapsulating Rejuvenator Fiber on the Performance of Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Shu Benan , Bao Shiwen , Wu Shaopeng , Dong Lijie , Li Chao , Yang Xu , Norambuena-Contreras José , Liu Quantao , Wang Qing
Published: April 2019

The idea of prolonging the service life of asphalt mixture by improving the self-healing ability of asphalt has received extensive attention in recent years. In view of this, this work synthesized three kinds of encapsulating rejuvenator fibers to improve self-healing properties of asphalt mixtures. A series of characterizations were performed to study the morphology, chemical structure and thermal stability of the three kinds of fibers. Subsequently, the road performance of asphalt mixture containing the fiber were investigated, which included high and low temperature, water sensitivity and fatigue performances. Finally, the self-healing performance of asphalt mixture containing the fiber was investigated by 3PB test. The results revealed that the three kinds of encapsulating rejuvenator fibers were successfully synthesized. The fibers had excellent thermal stability, which met temperature requirements in the mixing and compaction process of asphalt mixtures. Road performance of asphalt mixture containing the fiber met the requirements. Self-healing ability of asphalt mixture containing the fiber was improved. Synergistic action of temperature and rejuvenator could further significantly improve the self-healing ability of the asphalt mixture.
Effects of Yttrium on Microstructure Stability and Tensile Properties of China Low Activation Martensitic Steel
Authors: Qiu Guoxing , Zhan Dongping , Li Changsheng , Qi Min , Yang Yongkun , Jiang Zhouhua , Zhang Huishu
Published: April 2019

This study investigated the microstructural stability and mechanical properties exhibited by China low activation martensitic (CLAM) steels with different yttrium (Y) contents over 3000 h of aging at 550 °C. Scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction analysis, and transmission electron microscopy were employed to investigate the microstructural evolution of the steels. Results indicated that grain boundary migration was slow and the Laves phase precipitation was delayed in Y-containing steels. Grain boundaries at different angles in 0Y and 6Y CLAM steels were significantly affected, and those in 36Y and 71Y alloys exhibited negligible changes during the long-term thermal aging. Moreover, Y contents had appreciable effects on the strength and toughness of the aged steels. The stable microstructure of Y-containing CLAM alloys is responsible for improved strength and impact toughness during aging.
Propolis Exerts an Anti-Inflammatory Effect on PMA-Differentiated THP-1 Cells via Inhibition of Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase
Authors: Alqarni Abdulmalik M. , Niwasabutra Kanidta , Sahlan Muhamad , Fearnley Hugo , Fearnley James , Ferro Valerie A. , Watson David G.
Published: April 2019

Previous research has shown that propolis has immunomodulatory activity. Propolis extracts from different geographic origins were assessed for their anti-inflammatory activities by investigating their ability to alter the production of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and the cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and IL-10 in THP-1-derived macrophage cells co-stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). All the propolis extracts suppressed the TNF-α and IL-6 LPS-stimulated levels. Similar suppression effects were detected for IL-1β, but the release of this cytokine was synergised by propolis samples from Ghana and Indonesia when compared with LPS. Overall, the Cameroonian propolis extract (P-C) was the most active and this was evaluated for its effects on the metabolic profile of unstimulated macrophages or macrophages activated by LPS. The levels of 81 polar metabolites were identified by liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) on a ZIC-pHILIC column. LPS altered the energy, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism in THP-1 cells, and interpretation of the metabolic pathways showed that P-C reversed some of the effects of LPS. Overall, the results showed that propolis extracts exert an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and by metabolic reprogramming of LPS activity in macrophage cells, suggesting an immunomodulatory effect.
Selenocompounds as Novel Antibacterial Agents and Bacterial Efflux Pump Inhibitors
Authors: Mosolygó Tímea , Kincses Annamária , Csonka Andrea , Tönki Ádám Szabó , Witek Karolina , Sanmartín Carmen , Marć Małgorzata Anna , Handzlik Jadwiga , Kieć-Kononowicz Katarzyna , Domínguez-Álvarez Enrique , Spengler Gabriella
Published: April 2019

Bacterial multidrug resistance is becoming a growing problem for public health, due to the development and spreading of bacterial strains resistant to antimicrobials. In this study, the antibacterial and multidrug resistance reversing activity of a series of seleno-carbonyl compounds has been evaluated. The effects of eleven selenocompounds on bacterial growth were evaluated in Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Chlamydia trachomatis D. The combination effect of compounds with antibiotics was examined by the minimum inhibitory concentration reduction assay. Their efflux pump (EP) inhibitory properties were assessed using real-time fluorimetry. Relative expressions of EP and quorum-sensing genes were studied by quantitative PCR. Results showed that a methylketone selenoester had remarkable antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and potentiated the activity of oxacillin in MRSA. Most of the selenocompounds showed significant anti-chlamydial effects. The selenoanhydride and the diselenodiester were active inhibitors of the AcrAB-TolC system. Based on these results it can be concluded that this group of selenocompounds can be attractive potential antibacterials and EP inhibitors. The discovery of new derivatives with a significant antibacterial activity as novel selenocompounds, is of high impact in the fight against resistant pathogens.
A Useful Synthesis of 2-Acylamino-1,3,4-oxadiazoles from Acylthiosemicarbazides Using Potassium Iodate and the Discovery of New Antibacterial Compounds
Authors: Li Tianlei , Wen Gang , Li Jishun , Zhang Wenxuan , Wu Song
Published: April 2019

A useful method for the synthesis of 2-acylamino-1,3,4-oxadiazoles was developed. By using potassium iodate as an oxidant in water at 60 °C, a wide range of 2-acylamino-1,3,4-oxadiazoles were afforded in moderate to excellent yields within two hours. This method could provide a facile shortcut to generate a series of 2-acylamino-1,3,4-oxadiazoles in medicinal chemistry. Interestingly, some highly potent antibiotic compounds were found through this synthetic method, and some of them displayed a significant improvement in activity compared with the corresponding 1,4-diacylthiosemicarbazides. Compound 2n was the most active against Staphylococcus aureus with MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) of 1.56 mg/mL, and compounds 2m and 2q were the most active against Bacillus subtilis with MIC of 0.78 mg/mL. The preliminary cytotoxic activities of the most potent compounds 2m, 2n, and 2q against the androgen-independent (PC-3) prostate cancer cell line were more than 30 μM (IC50 > 30 μM).
Effects of Temperature and Host Concentration on the Supramolecular Enantiodifferentiating [4 + 4] Photodimerization of 2-Anthracenecarboxylate through Triplet-Triplet Annihilation Catalyzed by Pt-Modified Cyclodextrins
Authors: Rao Ming , Wu Wanhua , Yang Cheng
Published: April 2019

Visible-light-driven photocatalytic supramolecular enantiodifferentiating dimerization of 2-anthracenecarboxylic acid (AC) through triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA), mediated by the Schiff base Pt(II) complex (Pt-1, Pt-2, and Pt-3) was studied. The host concentration and the temperature effects on the stereoselectivity were comprehensively investigated. Increasing the concentration of sensitizers/hosts significantly enhanced the conversion of the photoreaction but led to reduced enantioselectivities of the chiral photodimers 2 and 3 when the photoreaction was triggered by a 532 nm laser, which was in contrast with the results obtained by direct irradiation of AC with a 365 nm light-emitting diode (LED) lamp, due to the aggregation of the sensitizer/host in water. The cyclization of AC through triplet-triplet annihilation displayed significant temperature dependency when Pt-3 was employed as the sensitizer/host. Increasing the temperature from 0 °C to 30 °C with 5% equiv. of Pt-3 led to a great increase of the ee of 2 from 2.1% to 31.6%. However, hardly any temperature dependency was observed when the photodimerization was mediated by other sensitizers and/or hosts, or the photoreaction was triggered directly with a 365 nm LED lamp.
The Influence of Diet on MicroRNAs that Impact Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Kura Branislav , Parikh Mihir , Slezak Jan , Pierce Grant N.
Published: April 2019

Food quality and nutritional habits strongly influence human health status. Extensive research has been conducted to confirm that foods rich in biologically active nutrients have a positive impact on the onset and development of different pathological processes, including cardiovascular diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms by which dietary compounds regulate cardiovascular function have not yet been fully clarified. A growing number of studies confirm that bioactive food components modulate various signaling pathways which are involved in heart physiology and pathology. Recent evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs), small single-stranded RNA chains with a powerful ability to influence protein expression in the whole organism, have a significant role in the regulation of cardiovascular-related pathways. This review summarizes recent studies dealing with the impact of some biologically active nutrients like polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins E and D, dietary fiber, or selenium on the expression of many miRNAs, which are connected with cardiovascular diseases. Current research indicates that the expression levels of many cardiovascular-related miRNAs like miRNA-21, -30 family, -34, -155, or -199 can be altered by foods and dietary supplements in various animal and human disease models. Understanding the dietary modulation of miRNAs represents, therefore, an important field for further research. The acquired knowledge may be used in personalized nutritional prevention of cardiovascular disease or the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.
Highly Sensitive and Selective Nanogap-Enhanced SERS Sensing Platform
Authors: Mun ChaeWon , Linh Vo Thi Nhat , Kwon Jung-Dae , Jung Ho Sang , Kim Dong-Ho , Park Sung-Gyu
Published: April 2019

This paper reports a highly sensitive and selective surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) sensing platform. We used a simple fabrication method to generate plasmonic hotspots through a direct maskless plasma etching of a polymer surface and the surface tension-driven assembly of high aspect ratio Ag/polymer nanopillars. These collapsed plasmonic nanopillars produced an enhanced near-field interaction via coupled localized surface plasmon resonance. The high density of the small nanogaps yielded a high plasmonic detection performance, with an average SERS enhancement factor of 1.5 × 107. More importantly, we demonstrated that the encapsulation of plasmonic nanostructures within nanofiltration membranes allowed the selective filtration of small molecules based on the degree of membrane swelling in organic solvents and molecular size. Nanofiltration membrane-encapsulated SERS substrates do not require pretreatments. Therefore, they provide a simple and fast detection of toxic molecules using portable Raman spectroscopy.
Polypropylene Nanocomposite Filled with Spinel Ferrite NiFe2O4 Nanoparticles and In-Situ Thermally-Reduced Graphene Oxide for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Application
Authors: Yadav Raghvendra Singh , Kuřitka Ivo , Vilčáková Jarmila , Machovský Michal , Škoda David , Urbánek Pavel , Masař Milan , Gořalik Marek , Urbánek Michal , Kalina Lukáš , Havlica Jaromir
Published: April 2019

Herein, we presented electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles—in-situ thermally-reduced graphene oxide (RGO)—polypropylene nanocomposites with the variation of reduced graphene oxide content. The structural, morphological, magnetic, and electromagnetic parameters and mechanical characteristics of fabricated nanocomposites were investigated and studied in detail. The controllable composition of NiFe2O4-RGO-Polypropylene nanocomposites exhibited electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) with a value of 29.4 dB at a thickness of 2 mm. The enhanced EMI shielding properties of nanocomposites with the increase of RGO content could be assigned to enhanced attenuation ability, high conductivity, dipole and interfacial polarization, eddy current loss, and natural resonance. The fabricated lightweight NiFe2O4-RGO-Polypropylene nanocomposites have potential as a high performance electromagnetic interference shielding nanocomposite.
A Retrospective Epidemiological Study of the Incidence and Risk Factors of Salmonellosis in Bahrain in Children during 2012–2016
Authors: Perna Simone , Alaali Zahraa , Alalwan Tariq A. , Janahi Essam Moahmmed , Mustafa Sakina , Rondanelli Mariangela , Bin Thani Ali Salman
Published: April 2019

Salmonellosis is one of the major public health concerns in Bahrain as it has increased rapidly during the past few years. This study aims to determine the prevalence of salmonellosis in children and the possible risk factors such as age, geographical area, nationality, gender, unsafe drinking water, infant born weight and gastrointestinal disease. The cases of salmonellosis in children reported by the Ministry of Health of Bahrain ranged from 21 to 26 per 100,000 population during the period 2012–2016. Salmonellosis cases were geographically concentrated in the capital and northern regions. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in the number of salmonellosis cases between Bahrainis and non-Bahrainis based on region, and gender (p < 0.001). In the Bahraini cohort, there was an association between the increase of cases and the number of gastrointestinal disease-related deaths (p < 0.05). In addition, unsafe water (over the level of 2.14%) and low-birth weight (<3.100 g) were associated, but not statistically significant (p = 0.086 and p = 0.126, respectively) with the increase of salmonellosis cases. Despite the decline in the number of cases, the results of this study contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology of Salmonella in humans and this, in turn, will help develop and implement preventative measures.
A Polyamine Oxidase from Selaginella lepidophylla (SelPAO5) can Replace AtPAO5 in Arabidopsis through Converting Thermospermine to Norspermidine instead to Spermidine
Authors: Sagor G. H. M. , Kusano Tomonobu , Berberich Thomas
Published: April 2019

Of the five polyamine oxidases in Arabidopsis thaliana, AtPAO5 has a substrate preference for the tetraamine thermospermine (T-Spm) which is converted to triamine spermidine (Spd) in a back-conversion reaction in vitro. A homologue of AtPAO5 from the lycophyte Selaginella lepidophylla (SelPAO5) back-converts T-Spm to the uncommon polyamine norspermidine (NorSpd) instead of Spd. An Atpao5 loss-of-function mutant shows a strong reduced growth phenotype when growing on a T-Spm containing medium. When SelPAO5 was expressed in the Atpao5 mutant, T-Spm level decreased to almost normal values of wild type plants, and NorSpd was produced. Furthermore the reduced growth phenotype was cured by the expression of SelPAO5. Thus, a NorSpd synthesis pathway by PAO reaction and T-Spm as substrate was demonstrated in planta and the assumption that a balanced T-Spm homeostasis is needed for normal growth was strengthened.