bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Stress Among Different Occupational Groups and the Interaction with Sedentary Behaviour
Authors: Dėdelė Audrius , Miškinytė Auksė , Andrušaitytė Sandra , Bartkutė Žydrūnė
Published: November 2019

Sedentary lifestyle and low physical activity are associated with health issues, including both physical and mental health, non-communicable diseases, overweight, obesity and reduced quality of life. This study investigated differences in physical activity and other individual factors among different occupational groups, highlighting the impact of sedentary behaviour on perceived stress by occupation. Cross-sectional study included 571 full-time workers of Kaunas city, Lithuania. The outcome of this study was assessment of perceived stress. Time spent sedentary per day, occupation and other individual characteristics were self-reported using questionnaires. Two main occupational groups were analysed: white-collar and blue-collar workers. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the impact of sedentary behaviour on perceived stress among different occupational groups. The prevalence of high sedentary behaviour was 21.7 and 16.8 % among white-collar and blue-collar workers, respectively. Blue-collar workers had a higher risk of high perceived stress (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.05–2.29) compared to white-collar workers; however, sedentary time did not have any impact on high perceived stress level. Meanwhile, white-collar male (OR 4.34, 95% CI 1.46–12.95) and white-collar female (OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.23–8.65) workers who spend more than three hours per day sedentary had a greater risk of high levels of perceived stress. These findings indicate sedentary behaviour effect on perceived stress among two occupational groups—white-collar and blue-collar workers—and other important factors associated with perceived stress.
Neighborhood Walkability in Relation to Knee and Low Back Pain in Older People: A Multilevel Cross-Sectional Study from the JAGES
Authors: Okabe Daichi , Tsuji Taishi , Hanazato Masamichi , Miyaguni Yasuhiro , Asada Nao , Kondo Katsunori
Published: November 2019

Few studies have focused on a relationship between the built environment and musculoskeletal pain. This study aimed to investigate an association between neighborhood walkability and knee and low back pain in older people. Data were derived from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES) 2013, a population-based study of independently living people ≥65 years old. A cross-sectional multilevel analysis was performed, of 22,892 participants in 792 neighborhoods. Neighborhood walkability was assessed by residents’ perceptions and population density. Dependent variables were knee and low back pain restricting daily activities within the past year. The prevalence of knee pain was 26.2% and of low back pain 29.3%. After adjusting for sociodemographic covariates, the prevalence ratio (PR) of knee and low back pain was significantly lower in neighborhoods with better access to parks and sidewalks, good access to fresh food stores, and higher population densities. After additionally adjusting for population density, easier walking in neighborhoods without slopes or stairs was significantly inversely correlated with knee pain (PR 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.85–0.99). Neighborhoods with walkability enhanced by good access to parks and sidewalks and fresh food stores, easy walking without slopes or stairs, and high population densities, had lower prevalences of knee and low back pain among older people. Further studies should examine environmental determinants of pain.
How to Motivate Employees for Sustained Innovation Behavior in Job Stressors? A Cross-Level Analysis of Organizational Innovation Climate
Authors: He Pei-Xu , Wu Tung-Ju , Zhao Hong-Dan , Yang Yang
Published: November 2019

The starting point of organizational innovation is employees’ creative thinking and innovation behaviors at work. In addition to personality and innovation willingness, innovation behavior depends on the level of support available in an organizational environment. The data used in this study were collected from 74 R&D teams (418 employee participants) in technology companies in Taiwan, and a multi-level analysis was conducted to investigate the relationships among job stressors, creative self-efficacy, and employees’ sustained innovation behavior, as well as the role of the organizational innovation climate between creative self-efficacy and employees’ innovation behavior. The research findings revealed significant positive relationships between challenge stressors and employees’ sustained innovation behavior, as well as significant negative relationships between hindrance stressors and employees’ sustained innovation behavior, mediation effects of creative self-efficacy on job stressors and employees’ sustained innovation behavior, and moderation effects of the organizational innovation climate on employees’ creative self-efficacy and sustained innovation behavior. An enterprise could place some working-related stress on employees and create a rich internal innovative climate to induce innovation behavior in its members.
Effects of Vibrotactile Feedback on Sedentary Behaviors in Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nishimura Makoto , Sasai Hiroyuki , Nakata Yoshio , Maeda Seiji
Published: November 2019

No effective and easily implemented intervention strategies for reducing sedentary behavior have been established. This pilot trial (UMIN000024372) investigated whether vibrotactile feedback reduces sedentary behavior. Twenty-six adults aged 30–69 years who were sedentary ≥8 h/day were randomly assigned to control (n = 13) or vibration (n = 13) groups. Participants wore a monitor 9 h daily for seven-day periods at baseline (week zero), during the intervention (weeks one, three, five, and seven), and after the intervention (week eight). During the eight-week intervention, vibration-group participants were notified by a vibration through the monitor whenever continuous sedentary time reached ≥30 min; they also received weekly reports of their sedentary patterns. Control-group participants did not receive feedback. The primary outcome was change in total sedentary time. Changes in longer bouts of sedentary time (≥35 min) were also assessed. No significant difference was found in the change in total sedentary time (control: −17.5 min/9 h, vibration: −9.1 min/9 h; p = 0.42). Although no significant differences were observed in sedentary time in longer bouts, vibration-group participants exhibited significantly lower sedentary time (–21.6 min/9 h, p = 0.045). Thus, vibration feedback does not appear to offer any advantages in reducing total sedentary time.
Beyond the Cell Surface: Targeting Intracellular Negative Regulators to Enhance T cell Anti-Tumor Activity
Authors: Sitaram Poojitha , Uyemura Bradley , Malarkannan Subramaniam , Riese Matthew J.
Published: November 2019

It is well established that extracellular proteins that negatively regulate T cell function, such as Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and Programmed Cell Death protein 1 (PD-1), can be effectively targeted to enhance cancer immunotherapies and Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T cells). Intracellular proteins that inhibit T cell receptor (TCR) signal transduction, though less well studied, are also potentially useful therapeutic targets to enhance T cell activity against tumor. Four major classes of enzymes that attenuate TCR signaling include E3 ubiquitin kinases such as the Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proteins (Cbl-b and c-Cbl), and Itchy (Itch), inhibitory tyrosine phosphatases, such as Src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatases (SHP-1 and SHP-2), inhibitory protein kinases, such as C-terminal Src kinase (Csk), and inhibitory lipid kinases such as Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase (SHIP) and Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs). This review describes the mechanism of action of eighteen intracellular inhibitory regulatory proteins in T cells within these four classes, and assesses their potential value as clinical targets to enhance the anti-tumor activity of endogenous T cells and CAR-T cells.
In Silico Approach for the Definition of radiomiRNomic Signatures for Breast Cancer Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Gallivanone Francesca , Cava Claudia , Corsi Fabio , Bertoli Gloria , Castiglioni Isabella
Published: November 2019

Personalized medicine relies on the integration and consideration of specific characteristics of the patient, such as tumor phenotypic and genotypic profiling. Background: Radiogenomics aim to integrate phenotypes from tumor imaging data with genomic data to discover genetic mechanisms underlying tumor development and phenotype. Methods: We describe a computational approach that correlates phenotype from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of breast cancer (BC) lesions with microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs, and regulatory networks, developing a radiomiRNomic map. We validated our approach to the relationships between MRI and miRNA expression data derived from BC patients. We obtained 16 radiomic features quantifying the tumor phenotype. We integrated the features with miRNAs regulating a network of pathways specific for a distinct BC subtype. Results: We found six miRNAs correlated with imaging features in Luminal A (miR-1537, -205, -335, -337, -452, and -99a), seven miRNAs (miR-142, -155, -190, -190b, -1910, -3617, and -429) in HER2+, and two miRNAs (miR-135b and -365-2) in Basal subtype. We demonstrate that the combination of correlated miRNAs and imaging features have better classification power of Luminal A versus the different BC subtypes than using miRNAs or imaging alone. Conclusion: Our computational approach could be used to identify new radiomiRNomic profiles of multi-omics biomarkers for BC differential diagnosis and prognosis.
CGRP Signaling via CALCRL Increases Chemotherapy Resistance and Stem Cell Properties in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Gluexam Tobias , Grandits Alexander M. , Schlerka Angela , Nguyen Chi Huu , Etzler Julia , Finkes Thomas , Fuchs Michael , Scheid Christoph , Heller Gerwin , Hackl Hubert , Harrer Nathalie , Sill Heinz , Koller Elisabeth , Stoiber Dagmar , Sommergruber Wolfgang , Wieser Rotraud
Published: November 2019

The neuropeptide CGRP, acting through the G-protein coupled receptor CALCRL and its coreceptor RAMP1, plays a key role in migraines, which has led to the clinical development of several inhibitory compounds. Recently, high CALCRL expression has been shown to be associated with a poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We investigate, therefore, the functional role of the CGRP-CALCRL axis in AML. To this end, in silico analyses, human AML cell lines, primary patient samples, and a C57BL/6-based mouse model of AML are used. We find that CALCRL is up-regulated at relapse of AML, in leukemic stem cells (LSCs) versus bulk leukemic cells, and in LSCs versus normal hematopoietic stem cells. CGRP protects receptor-positive AML cell lines and primary AML samples from apoptosis induced by cytostatic drugs used in AML therapy, and this effect is inhibited by specific antagonists. Furthermore, the CGRP antagonist olcegepant increases differentiation and reduces the leukemic burden as well as key stem cell properties in a mouse model of AML. These data provide a basis for further investigations into a possible role of CGRP-CALCRL inhibition in the therapy of AML.
Renal Benefits of SGLT 2 Inhibitors and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Evidence Supporting a Paradigm Shift in the Medical Management of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ninčević Vjera , Omanović Kolarić Tea , Roguljić Hrvoje , Kizivat Tomislav , Smolić Martina , Bilić Ćurčić Ines
Published: November 2019

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most perilous side effects of diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2 (T1DM and T2DM).). It is known that sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT 2i) and glucagone like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have renoprotective effects, but the molecular mechanisms are still unknown. In clinical trials GLP-1 analogs exerted important impact on renal composite outcomes, primarily on macroalbuminuria, possibly through suppression of inflammation-related pathways, however enhancement of natriuresis and diuresis is also one of possible mechanisms of nephroprotection. Dapagliflozin, canagliflozin, and empagliflozin are SGLT2i drugs, useful in reducing hyperglycemia and in their potential renoprotective mechanisms, which include blood pressure control, body weight loss, intraglomerular pressure reduction, and a decrease in urinary proximal tubular injury biomarkers. In this review we have discussed the potential synergistic and/or additive effects of GLP 1 RA and SGLT2 inhibitors on the primary onset and progression of kidney disease, and the potential implications on current guidelines of diabetes type 2 management.
Virtual Screening Using Pharmacophore Models Retrieved from Molecular Dynamic Simulations
Authors: Polishchuk Pavel , Kutlushina Alina , Bashirova Dayana , Mokshyna Olena , Madzhidov Timur
Published: November 2019

Pharmacophore models are widely used for the identification of promising primary hits in compound large libraries. Recent studies have demonstrated that pharmacophores retrieved from protein-ligand molecular dynamic trajectories outperform pharmacophores retrieved from a single crystal complex structure. However, the number of retrieved pharmacophores can be enormous, thus, making it computationally inefficient to use all of them for virtual screening. In this study, we proposed selection of distinct representative pharmacophores by the removal of pharmacophores with identical three-dimensional (3D) pharmacophore hashes. We also proposed a new conformer coverage approach in order to rank compounds using all representative pharmacophores. Our results for four cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) complexes with different ligands demonstrated that the proposed selection and ranking approaches outperformed the previously described common hits approach. We also demonstrated that ranking, based on averaged predicted scores obtained from different complexes, can outperform ranking based on scores from an individual complex. All developments were implemented in open-source software pharmd.
Nucleoplasmic Reticulum Formation in Human Endometrial Cells is Steroid Hormone Responsive and Recruits Nascent Components
Authors: Pytowski Lior , Drozdz Marek M. , Jiang Haibo , Hernandez Zayra , Kumar Kurun , Knott Emily , Vaux David J.
Published: November 2019

The nuclei of cells may exhibit invaginations of the nuclear envelope under a variety of conditions. These invaginations form a branched network termed the nucleoplasmic reticulum (NR), which may be found in cells in pathological and physiological conditions. While an extensive NR is a hallmark of cellular senescence and shows associations with some cancers, very little is known about the formation of NR in physiological conditions, despite the presence of extensive nuclear invaginations in some cell types such as endometrial cells. Here we show that in these cells the NR is formed in response to reproductive hormones. We demonstrate that oestrogen and progesterone are sufficient to induce NR formation and that this process is reversible without cell division upon removal of the hormonal stimulus. Nascent lamins and phospholipids are incorporated into the invaginations suggesting that there is a dedicated machinery for its formation. The induction of NR in endometrial cells offers a new model to study NR formation and function in physiological conditions.
Insights into the Regulation of Tumor Angiogenesis by Micro-RNAs
Authors: Leone Patrizia , Buonavoglia Alessio , Fasano Rossella , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , De Re Valli , Cicco Sebastiano , Vacca Angelo , Racanelli Vito
Published: November 2019

One of the hallmarks of cancer is angiogenesis, a series of events leading to the formation of the abnormal vascular network required for tumor growth, development, progression, and metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, single-stranded, non-coding RNAs whose functions include modulation of the expression of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors and regulation of the function of vascular endothelial cells. Vascular-associated microRNAs can be either pro- or anti-angiogenic. In cancer, miRNA expression levels are deregulated and typically vary during tumor progression. Experimental data indicate that the tumor phenotype can be modified by targeting miRNA expression. Based on these observations, miRNAs may be promising targets for the development of novel anti-angiogenic therapies. This review discusses the role of various miRNAs and their targets in tumor angiogenesis, describes the strategies and challenges of miRNA-based anti-angiogenic therapies and explores the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers for anti-angiogenic therapy response.
1,1,4,7-Tetramethyldecahydro-1H-cyclopropa[e]azulen-7-ol from the Stembark Chisocheton pentandrus
Authors: Fareza Muhamad Salman , Nurlelasari  , Supratman Unang , Katja Dewa Gede , Husna Muhamad Hafiz , Awang Khalijah
Published: November 2019

A new aromadendrane-type sesquiterpenoid, namely dehydrosphatulenol (1), has been isolated from the stembark of Chisocheton pentandrus. The chemical structure of 1 was characterized on the basis of spectroscopic evidences including mainly one dimension and two dimension Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, and Mass Spectroscopy as well as through a comparison with those related compounds previously reported.
Wave Based Method for Free Vibration Analysis of Cross-Ply Composite Laminated Shallow Shells with General Boundary Conditions
Authors: Shi Dongyan , He Dongze , Wang Qingshan , Ma Chunlong , Shu Haisheng
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a semi-analytical method is adopted to analyze the free vibration characteristics of composite laminated shallow shells under general boundary conditions. Combining two kinds of shell theory, that is, first-order shear deformation shell theory (FSDT) and classical shell theory (CST), to describe the dynamic relationship between the displacement resultants and force vectors, the theoretical formulations are established. According to the presented work, the displacement and transverse rotational variables are transformed into wave function forms to satisfy the theoretical formulation. Related to diverse boundary conditions, the total matrix of the composite shallow shell can be established. Searching the determinant of the total matrix using the dichotomy method, the natural frequency of composite laminated shallow shells is obtained. Through several classical numerical examples, it is proven that the results calculated by the presented method are more accurate and reliable. Furthermore, to discuss the effect of geometric parameters and material constants on the natural frequencies of composite laminated shallow shells, some numerical examples are calculated to analyze. Also, the influence of boundary elastic restrained stiffness is discussed.
Photochemical Reduction of Silver Precursor and Elastomer Composite for Flexible and Conductive Patterning
Authors: Ji Seok Young , Kim Hoon-Young , Cho Sung-Hak , Chang Won Seok
Published: November 2019

The development of ink-based printing techniques has enabled the fabrication of electric circuits on flexible substrates. Previous studies have shown that the process method which uses a silver (Ag) precursor (AgCF3COO) and electrospun poly(styrene-block-butadiene-block-styrene) (SBS) can yield patterns with high conductivity and stretchability. However, the only method to reduce the Ag precursor absorbed in SBS is chemical reduction using a toxic solution. Here, we developed a process to fabricate a high-conductivity pattern via laser reduction by photo-chemical reaction without toxic solutions. The Ag precursor was absorbed in electrospun SBS to form a composite layer (composite SBS) with modified properties, that could more effectively absorb the photon energy than SBS without the Ag precursor. We analyzed the properties of this material, such as its light absorption coefficient, heat conductivity, and the density of both SBS and composite SBS to allow comparison of the two materials by numerical simulation. In addition, we fabricated patterns on highly heat-sensitive substrates such as burning paper and a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) thin film, as the pattern can be implemented using very low laser energy. We expect the proposed approach to become a key technology for implementing user-designed circuits for wearable sensors and devices on various flexible substrates.
Extraordinary Room-Temperature Tensile Ductility of Pure Magnesium
Authors: Du Xinghao , Chang Haitao , Chen Cai , Huo Xiaofeng , Li Wanpeng , Huang Jacob C. , Duan Guosheng , Wu Baolin
Published: November 2019

Room-temperature tensile behavior and associated deformation mechanisms of multiple-axial forged (MAFed) pure Mg has been investigated. The as-MAFed Mg, with a coarsely recrystallized structure, exhibited a balanced strain-hardening behavior with strain, resulting in extraordinary mechanical properties with high ultimate stress (~200 MPa) and extensive true strain (~0.30). The observation on the microstructural evolution suggests that the balanced strain-hardening behavior is correlated with de-twinning behavior cooperated with pyramidal  dislocations at the plastic straining stage.
Four New Insecticidal Xanthene Derivatives from the Mangrove-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. JY246
Authors: Bai Meng , Zheng Cai-Juan , Nong Xu-Hua , Zhou Xue-Ming , Luo You-Ping , Chen Guang-Ying
Published: November 2019

Four new xanthene derivatives, penicixanthenes A–D (1–4), and one known compound 5 were isolated from a marine mangrove endophytic fungus Penicillium sp. JY246 that was obtained from the stem of Ceriops tagal. Their structures were determined by detailed NMR, MS spectroscopic data, modified Mosher’s method, and calculated electronic circular dichroism data. All of the isolated compounds were examined for insecticidal activity. Compounds 2 and 3 showed growth inhibition activity against newly hatched larvae of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner with the IC50 values 100 and 200 μg/mL, respectively, and compounds 1, 3, and 4 showed insecticidal activity against newly hatched larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus with LC50 values of 38.5 (±1.16), 11.6 (±0.58), and 20.5 (±1) μg/mL, respectively. The four xanthene derivatives have the potential to be developed as new biopesticides.
Effects of Eutectic Modification and Grain Refinement on Microstructure and Properties of PM AlSi7 Metallic Foams
Authors: Lehmhus Dirk , Hünert Daniela , Mosler Ulrike , Martin Ulrich , Weise Jörg
Published: November 2019

For AlSi7 foams, microstructure modification by variation of solidification rates and addition of Sr, B and TiB2/TiAl3 was investigated and its transfer to powder metallurgical metal foaming processes demonstrated. Microstructural characterization focused on grain size and morphology of the eutectic phase. Cooling rates during solidification were linked to secondary dendrite arm spacing, establishing a microstructure-based measure of solidification rates. Effects of refining and modification treatments were compared and their influence on foam expansion evaluated. Studies on foams focused on comparison of micro- and pore structure using metallographic techniques as well as computed tomography in combination with image analysis. Reference samples without additives and untreated as well as annealed TiH2 as foaming agent allowed evaluation of pore and microstructure impact on mechanical performance. Evaluation of expansion and pore structure revealed detrimental effects of Sr and B additions, limiting the evaluation of mechanical performance to the TiB2 samples. These, as well as the two reference series samples, were subjected to quasi-static compression testing. Stress-strain curves were gained and density-dependent expressions of ultimate compressive strength, plateau strength and tangent modulus derived. Weibull evaluation of density-normalized mechanical properties revealed a significant influence of grain size on the Weibull modulus at densities below 0.4 g/cm3.
The Impact of the Composition Effect on Ferromagnetic Properties of Tb2Co2Ga
Authors: Tanaka Seiya , Terada Hirotaka , Shirakawa Naoki , Tsubota Masami , Kitagawa Jiro
Published: November 2019

The ferromagnetic properties of Tb2Co2Ga, crystallizing into an orthorhombic W2CoB2-type structure, were investigated by preparing 11 polycrystalline samples with different starting atomic compositions. We found that Tb2Co2Ga possesses a homogeneity range in the ternary phase diagram. The Curie temperature TC is sensitive to the atomic composition and ranges rather widely, i.e., from 75 to 145 K. For the samples with a TC above 90 K, the nearest Tb–Tb and the Tb–Co distances would be important factors deciding TC, considering the RKKY interaction through the hybridization between Tb and Co atoms. An anisotropic change of two kinds of Co–Tb–Co angles in the octahedron formed by two Tb and four Co atoms occurs in the samples with a TC lower than 90 K. Such a change of octahedral parameters seems to be related to a difference of shapes in the ac magnetization anomaly at TC between the samples in the lowest TC (~ 75 K) group and those in the other groups.
Computer-Controlled Detonation Spraying: Flexible Control of the Coating Chemistry and Microstructure
Authors: Ulianitsky Vladimir Yu. , Dudina Dina V. , Shtertser Alexandr A. , Smurov Igor
Published: November 2019

This article is a focused review aimed to describe the potential of the computer-controlled detonation spraying (CCDS) for producing and designing coatings with variable chemical and phase compositions and microstructure and promising properties. The development of the detonation spraying method is briefly analyzed from a historical perspective and the capabilities of the state-of-the art facilities are presented. A key advantage of the CCDS is the possibility of using precisely measured quantities of the explosive gaseous mixtures for each shot of the detonation gun and different oxygen to fuel ratios, which can create spraying environments of different chemical properties—from severely oxidizing to highly reducing. The significance of careful adjustment of the spraying parameters is shown using material systems that are chemically sensitive to the composition of the spraying environment and temperature. Research performed by the authors on CCDS of different materials—metals, ceramics, intermetallics and metal-ceramic composites is reviewed. Novel applications of detonation spraying using the CCDS technology are described.
Glucose-6 Phosphate, a Central Hub for Liver Carbohydrate Metabolism
Authors: Rajas Fabienne , Gautier-Stein Amandine , Mithieux Gilles
Published: November 2019

Cells efficiently adjust their metabolism according to the abundance of nutrients and energy. The ability to switch cellular metabolism between anabolic and catabolic processes is critical for cell growth. Glucose-6 phosphate is the first intermediate of glucose metabolism and plays a central role in the energy metabolism of the liver. It acts as a hub to metabolically connect glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, glycogen synthesis, de novo lipogenesis, and the hexosamine pathway. In this review, we describe the metabolic fate of glucose-6 phosphate in a healthy liver and the metabolic reprogramming occurring in two pathologies characterized by a deregulation of glucose homeostasis, namely type 2 diabetes, which is characterized by fasting hyperglycemia; and glycogen storage disease type I, where patients develop severe hypoglycemia during short fasting periods. In these two conditions, dysfunction of glucose metabolism results in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which may possibly lead to the development of hepatic tumors. Moreover, we also emphasize the role of the transcription factor carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP), known to link glucose and lipid metabolisms. In this regard, comparing these two metabolic diseases is a fruitful approach to better understand the key role of glucose-6 phosphate in liver metabolism in health and disease.
The Application of Metabolomic Techniques in Research Investigating Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Green Brian D.
Published: November 2019

We live in a world posing many new and different challenges for human health, and one such challenge is the rapidly expanding number of cases of human neurodegenerative disease [...]
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy—An Emerging Analytical Tool for Mineral Exploration
Authors: Harmon Russell , Lawley Christopher , Watts Jordan , Harraden Cassady , Somers Andrew , Hark Richard
Published: November 2019

The mineral exploration industry requires new methods and tools to address the challenges of declining mineral reserves and increasing discovery costs. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) represents an emerging geochemical tool for mineral exploration that can provide rapid, in situ, compositional analysis and high-resolution imaging in both laboratory and field and settings. We demonstrate through a review of previously published research and our new results how LIBS can be applied to qualitative element detection for geochemical fingerprinting, sample classification, and discrimination, as well as quantitative geochemical analysis, rock characterization by grain size analysis, and in situ geochemical imaging. LIBS can detect elements with low atomic number (i.e., light elements), some of which are important pathfinder elements for mineral exploration and/or are classified as critical commodities for emerging green technologies. LIBS data can be acquired in situ, facilitating the interpretation of geochemical data in a mineralogical context, which is important for unraveling the complex geological history of most ore systems. LIBS technology is available as a handheld analyzer, thus providing a field capability to acquire low-cost geochemical analyses in real time. As a consequence, LIBS has wide potential to be utilized in mineral exploration, prospect evaluation, and deposit exploitation quality control. LIBS is ideally suited for field exploration programs that would benefit from rapid chemical analysis under ambient environmental conditions.
Acid and Thermal Treatment of Alkali-Activated Zeolite Foams
Authors: Tišler Zdeněk , Hrachovcová Kateřina , Svobodová Eliška , Šafář Jan , Pelíšková Lenka
Published: November 2019

The foamed alkali-activated zeolite materials have been studied primarily in terms of mechanical and structural properties as potential substitutes for concrete and other building materials. However, they also have interesting textural and acid properties that make them much more useful, especially in the chemical industry. The aim of the study is to map in detail the influence of post-synthesis modifications of alkali-activated natural zeolite foams on their chemical, mechanical, and textural properties for possible use in catalytic and adsorption applications. Alkali-activated natural zeolite foam pellets were prepared by activation with mixed potassium hydroxide and sodium silicate activator and foamed using H2O2 solution. The foam pellets were post-synthetic modified by leaching with mineral and organic acids and calcination. The properties of the modified materials were characterised on the basis of XRF, XRD, N2 physisorption, DRIFT, SEM, NH3-TPD analyses, and the strength measurements. Our data showed that the basic clinoptilolite structure remains unchanged in the material which is stable up to 600 °C after acid leaching. In two-step leaching, the specific surface area increases to 350 m2/g and the leaching process allows the acid properties of the materials to be varied.
Characterization of Composition and Antifungal Properties of Leaf Secondary Metabolites from Thirteen Cultivars of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat
Authors: Xue Huanhuan , Jiang Yifan , Zhao Hongwei , Köllner Tobias G. , Chen Sumei , Chen Fadi , Chen Feng
Published: November 2019

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat is an ornamental plant of worldwide cultivation. Like many other species in the family Asteraceae, C. morifolium is a rich producer of secondary metabolites. There are two objectives in this study: (I) to determine and compare the diversity of apolar secondary metabolites among different cultivars of C. morifolium and (II) to compare their properties as antifungal agents. To attain these objectives, we selected 13 cultivars of C. morifolium that are commonly used for making chrysanthemum tea as experimental materials. Leaves at the same developmental stage were collected from respective mature plants and subjected to organic extraction. The extracts were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. A total of 37 apolar secondary metabolites including 26 terpenoids were detected from the 13 cultivars. These 13 cultivars can be largely divided into three chemotypes based on chemical principal components analysis. Next, the extracts from the 13 cultivars were examined in in vitro assays for their antifungal properties against three species of pathogenic fungi: Fusarium oxysporum, Magnaporthe oryzae, and Verticillium dahliae. Significant variability in antifungal activity of the leaf extracts among different cultivars was observed. The 13 cultivars can be divided into four groups based on their antifungal activities, which could be partly correlated to the contents of terpenoids. In short, this study reveals large variations in chemical composition, particularly of terpenoids, of leaf secondary metabolites among different cultivars of C. morifolium and their different abilities in functioning as antifungal agents.
Effects of GGT and C-S Lyase on the Generation of Endogenous Formaldehyde in Lentinula edodes at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Lei Xiaoyu , Gao Shuangshuang , Feng Xi , Huang Zhicheng , Bian Yinbing , Huang Wen , Liu Ying
Published: November 2019

Endogenous formaldehyde is generated as a normal metabolite via bio-catalysis of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and L-cysteine sulfoxide lyase (C-S lyase) during the growth and development of Lentinula edodes. In this study, we investigated the mRNA and protein expression levels, the activities of GGT and C-S lyase, and the endogenous formaldehyde content in L. edodes at different growth stages. With the growth of L. edodes, a decrease was found in the mRNA and protein expression levels of GGT, while an increase was observed in the mRNA and protein expression levels of C-S lyase as well as the activities of GGT and C-S lyase. Our results revealed for the first time a positive relationship of formaldehyde content with the expression levels of Csl (encoding Lecsl) and Lecsl (C-S lyase protein of Lentinula edodes) as well as the enzyme activities of C-S lyase and GGT during the growth of L. edodes. This research provided a molecular basis for understanding and controlling the endogenous formaldehyde formation in Lentinula edodes in the process of growth.
A Novel pH- and Salt-Responsive N-Succinyl-Chitosan Hydrogel via a One-Step Hydrothermal Process
Authors: Li Xingliang , Wang Yihan , Li Aoqi , Ye Yingqing , Peng Shuhua , Deng Mingyu , Jiang Bo
Published: November 2019

In this study, we synthesized a series of pH-sensitive and salt-sensitive N-succinyl-chitosan hydrogels with N-succinyl-chitosan (NSCS) and the crosslinker glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) via a one-step hydrothermal process. The structure and morphology analysis of the NSCS and glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane-N-succinyl chitosan hydrogel (GNCH) revealed the close relation between the swelling behavior of hydrogels and the content of crosslinker GPTMS. The high GPTMS content could weaken the swelling capacity of hydrogels and improve their mechanical properties. The hydrogels show high pH sensitivity and reversibility in the range of pH 1.0 to 9.0, and exhibit on-off switching behavior between acidic and alkaline environments. In addition, the hydrogels perform smart swelling behaviors in NaCl, CaCl2, and FeCl3 solutions. These hydrogels may have great potential in medical applications.
Recovery of Natural Antioxidants from Agro-Industrial Side Streams through Advanced Extraction Techniques
Authors: Fierascu Radu Claudiu , Fierascu Irina , Avramescu Sorin Marius , Sieniawska Elwira
Published: November 2019

Large amounts of agro-industrial waste are being generated each year, leading to pollution and economic loss. At the same time, these side streams are rich source of active compounds including antioxidants. Recovered compounds can be re-utilized as food additives, functional foods, nutra-/pharmaceuticals, cosmeceuticals, beauty products, and bio-packaging. Advanced extraction techniques are promising tools to recover target compounds such as antioxidants from agro-industrial side streams. Due to the disadvantages of classical extraction techniques (such as large amounts of solvents, increased time of extraction, large amounts of remaining waste after the extraction procedure, etc.), and advanced techniques emerged, in order to obtain more efficient and sustainable processes. In this review paper aspects regarding different modern extraction techniques related to recovery of antioxidant compounds from wastes generated in different industries and their applications are briefly discussed.
Accession-Level Differentiation of Urushiol Levels, and Identification of Cardanols in Nascent Emerged Poison Ivy Seedlings
Authors: Lott Aneirin A. , Baklajian Emily R. , Dickinson Christopher C. , Collakova Eva , Jelesko John G.
Published: November 2019

Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans (L.) Kuntze) shows accession-level differentiation in a variety of morphometric traits, suggesting local adaptation. To investigate whether the presumed defense compound urushiol also demonstrates accession-level accumulation differences, in vitro nascent germinated poison ivy seedlings from geographically isolated populations were germinated in vitro and then assayed for known urushiol congener accumulation levels. Significant accession-level differences in the accumulation levels of total C15- and C17-, total C15-, total C17-, specific C15 congeners, and specific C17 congeners of urushiol were identified. In addition, hereto novel C15- and C17-urushiol isomers were identified as well. Cardanols are assumed to be the penultimate metabolites giving rise to urushiols, but this assumption was not previously empirically validated. C15-cardanol congeners and isomers corresponding to expected substrates needed to produce the observed C15-urushiol congeners and isomers were identified in the same poison ivy seedling extracts. Total C15-cardanol and C15-cardanol congeners also showed significant accession-level differences. Based on the observed C15-cardanol congeners in poison ivy, the penultimate step in urushiol biosynthesis was proposed to be a cardanol-specific hydroxylase activity.
Discovery of Selective Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) Inhibitors through a Combination of Computational Studies and Biological Evaluations
Authors: Zhou You , Lu Xin , Yang Hongyu , Chen Yao , Wang Feng , Li Jifu , Tang Zhiran , Cheng Xifei , Yang Yingbin , Xu Li , Xia Qingyou
Published: November 2019

As there are increased levels and activity of butyrylcholiesterase (BChE) in the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), development of selective BChE inhibitors is of vital importance. In this study, a workflow combining computational technologies and biological assays were implemented to identify selective BChE inhibitors with new chemical scaffolds. In particular, a pharmacophore model served as a 3D search query to screen three compound collections containing 3.0 million compounds. Molecular docking and cluster analysis were performed to increase the efficiency and accuracy of virtual screening. Finally, 15 compounds were retained for biological investigation. Results revealed that compounds 8 and 18 could potently and highly selectively inhibit BChE activities (IC50 values < 10 μM on human BChE, selectivity index BChE > 30). These active compounds with novel scaffolds provided us with a good starting point to further design potent and selective BChE inhibitors, which may be beneficial for the treatment of AD.
Rutin, γ-Aminobutyric Acid, Gallic Acid, and Caffeine Negatively Affect the Sweet-Mellow Taste of Congou Black Tea Infusions
Authors: Li Jia , Yao Yuefeng , Wang Jiaqin , Hua Jinjie , Wang Jinjin , Yang Yanqin , Dong Chunwang , Zhou Qinghua , Jiang Yongwen , Deng Yuliang , Yuan Haibo
Published: November 2019

The sweet-mellow taste sensation is a unique and typical feature of premium congou black tea infusions. To explore the key taste-active compounds that influence the sweet-mellow taste, a sensory and molecular characterization was performed on thirty-three congou black tea infusions presenting different taste qualities, including the sweet-mellow, mellow-pure, or less-mellow taste. An integrated application of quantitative analysis of 48 taste-active compounds, taste contribution analysis, and further validation by taste supplementation experiments, combined with human sensory evaluation revealed that caffeine, γ-aminobutyric acid, rutin, succinic acid, citric acid, and gallic acid negatively affect the sweet-mellow taste, whereas glucose, sucrose, and ornithine positively contribute to the sweet-mellow taste of congou black tea infusions. Particularly, rutin, γ-aminobutyric acid, gallic acid, and caffeine, which impart the major inhibitory effect to the manifestation of the sweet-mellow taste, were identified as the key influencing components through stepwise screening and validation experiments. A modest level of these compounds was found to be favorable for the development and manifestation of the sweet-mellow taste. These compounds might potentially serve as the regulatory targets for oriented-manufacturing of high-quality sweet-mellow congou black tea.
Michael Addition Reaction Catalyzed by Imidazolium Chloride to Protect Amino Groups and Construct Medium Ring Heterocycles
Authors: Dai Zeshu , Tian Qingqiang , Li Yanwu , Shang Suqin , Luo Wen , Wang Xuetong , Li Dan , Zhang Ying , Li Zhiyao , Yuan Jianyong
Published: November 2019

An effective approach for amino protection and construction of a seven-membered ring has been developed. The method uses imidazolium chloride to carry out the Michael addition reaction at low temperatures and perform amino deprotection or construction of a seven-membered ring at high temperatures.
Multifunctional and Environmentally Friendly TiO2–SiO2 Mesoporous Materials for Sustainable Green Buildings
Authors: Ghedini Elena , Menegazzo Federica , Manzoli Maela , Di Michele Alessandro , Puglia Debora , Signoretto Michela
Published: November 2019

This work deals with the formulation of environmentally friendly, cheap, and readily-available materials for green building applications, providing the function of air purificator by improving the safety and the comfort of an indoor environment. High surface area TiO2–SiO2 samples, prepared by a simple, cost effective, and scalable synthetic approach, proved to be effective in maximizing the properties of each component, i.e., the photocatalytic properties of titania and the high surface area of silica. TiO2 was introduced onto an ordered mesoporous silica Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 (SBA-15), that is featured by interesting insulating features, by using an incipient wetness impregnation method. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated in gas phase oxidation of ethylbenzene, which was selected as model volatile organic compound (VOC) molecule. The morphological, textural and structural features along with the electronic properties, the hydrophilicity and heat capacity of the materials were investigated in depth by scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, N2 physisorption, diffuse reflectance UV-Vis, FT-IR spectroscopies, and modulated DSC (MDSC) dynamic scan. Outstanding performances in the ethylbenzene abatement results are promising for further application in the green building sector.
Photovoltaic Performance of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Containing ZnO Microrods
Authors: Cho Seong Il , Sung Hye Kyeong , Lee Sang-Ju , Kim Wook Hyun , Kim Dae-Hwan , Han Yoon Soo
Published: November 2019

At an elevated temperature of 90 °C, a chemical bath deposition using an aqueous solution of Zn(NO3)2·6H2O and (CH2)6N4 resulted in the formation of both nanoflowers and microrods of ZnO on F-doped SnO2 glass with a seed layer. The nanoflowers and microrods were sensitized with dyes for application to the photoelectrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). By extending the growth time of ZnO, the formation of nanoflowers was reduced and the formation of microrods favored. As the growth time was increased from 4 to 6 and then to 8 h, the open circuit voltage (Voc) values of the DSSCs were increased, whilst the short circuit current (Jsc) values varied only slightly. Changes in the dye-loading amount, dark current, and electrochemical impedance were monitored and they revealed that the increase in Voc was found to be due to a retardation of the charge recombination between photoinjected electrons and I3− ions and resulted from a reduction in the surface area of ZnO microrods. A reduced surface area decreased the dye contents adsorbed on the ZnO microrods, and thereby decreased the light harvesting efficiency (LHE). An increase in the electron collection efficiency attributed to the suppressed charge recombination counteracted the decreased LHE, resulting in comparable Jsc values regardless of the growth time.
Selective Recovery of Europium and Yttrium Ions with Cyanex 272-Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibers
Authors: Morillo Martín Diego , Diaz Jalaff Leslie , García Maria A. , Faccini Mirko
Published: November 2019

Rare earth elements (REEs), which include lanthanides as yttrium and europium became crucial in the last decade in many sectors like automotive, energy, and defense. They contribute to the increment efficiency and performance of different products. In this paper nanofiber membranes have been successfully applied for the selective recovery of Eu(III) and Y(III) from aqueous solutions. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) electrospun nanofibers were impregnated with a commercial organic extractant, Cyanex 272, in order to increase their affinity to rare earth metals ions. The coated nanofibers were characterized by SEM, ATR-FTIR, and TGA. Firstly, the adsorption of Eu(III) and Y(III) were evaluated in batch mode. Experimental data showed that the adsorption of Y(III) and Eu(III) corresponds to pseudo-second order model, with Langmuir sorption model being the best fit for both target ions. The results demonstrated that the adsorption capacity was high, showing a maximum capacity of 200 and 400 mg/g for Y(III) and Eu(III), respectively. Additionally, the presence of interfering ions does not show significative effects in the adsorption process. Finally, experiments in continuous mode indicated that the adsorption of the target elements is close to 100%, showing that PAN-272 is a promising material for the recovery of earth metal ions.