bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Denitrification Rate and Its Potential to Predict Biogenic N2O Field Emissions in a Mediterranean Maize-Cropped Soil in Southern Italy
Authors: Forte Annachiara , Fierro Angelo
Published: June 2019

The denitrification rate in C2H2-amended intact soil cores and soil N2O fluxes in closed static chambers were monitored in a Mediterranean irrigated maize-cropped field. The measurements were carried out during: (i) a standard fertilization management (SFM) activity and (ii) a manipulation experimental (ME) test on the effects of increased and reduced application rates of urea at the late fertilization. In the course of the SFM, the irrigations following early and late nitrogen fertilization led to pulses of denitrification rates (up to 1300 μg N2O-N m−2 h−1) and N2O fluxes (up to 320 μg N2O-N m−2 h−1), thanks to the combined action of high soil temperatures and not limiting nitrates and water filled pore space (WFPS). During the ME, high soil nitrates were noted in all the treatments in the first one month after the late fertilization, which promoted marked N-losses by microbial denitrification (from 500 to 1800 μg N2O-N m−2 h−1) every time the soil WFPS was not limiting. At similar maize yield responses to fertilizer treatments, this result suggested no competition for N between plant roots and soil microbial community and indicated a probable surplus of nitrogen fertilizer input at the investigated farm. Correlation and regression analyses (CRA) on the whole set of data showed significant relations between both the denitrification rates and the N2O fluxes with three soil physical-chemical parameters: nitrate concentration, WFPS and temperature. Specifically, the response functions of denitrification rate to soil nitrates, WFPS and temperature could be satisfactorily modelled according to simple Michaelis-Menten kinetic, exponential and linear functions, respectively. Furthermore, the CRA demonstrated a significant exponential relationship between N2O fluxes and denitrification and simple empirical functions to predict N2O emissions from the denitrification rate appeared more fitting (higher concordance correlation coefficient) than the predictive empirical algorithm based on soil nitrates, WFPS and temperature. In this regard, the empirically established relationships between the denitrification rate on intact soil cores under field conditions and the soil variables provided local-specific threshold values and coefficients which may effectively work to calibrate and adapt existing N2O process-based simulation models to the local pedo-climatic conditions.
The Linguistic Landscape of the Valencian Community: A Comparative Analysis of Bilingual and Multilingual Signs in Three Different Areas
Authors: Bellés-Calvera Lucía
Published: June 2019

During the last decades, the promotion of multilingualism has been key when designing linguistic policies in Europe. Previous research studies have focused on how languages are employed in fields such as education, media, and urban sites, among others. Bearing all this in mind, the aim of this paper is to analyse the linguistic landscapes of three municipalities located in a bilingual region in Spain, that of the Valencian Community. Thus, issues such as language contact, language dominance, and the languages used by a number of institutions on private and public signs were examined. As for the method, over 140 pictures of language signs were taken in order to examine language contact, language dominance, and the influence of official and foreign languages on private and public signs. The results suggest that the presence of languages may vary depending on the population living in these settings, the citizens’ mother tongue, and the policy regarding the minority language. The findings also indicate that the power of the two co-official languages is reinforced by public signs, whereas rich linguistic diversity is shown in private signs. All in all, it can be stated that the linguistic policy in the Valencian Community is not homogeneous throughout the region.
Tailoring One-Pass Asymmetric Rolling of Extra Low Carbon Steel for Shear Texture and Recrystallization
Authors: Dhinwal Satyaveer Singh , Toth Laszlo S. , Lapovok Rimma , Hodgson Peter Damian
Published: June 2019

Systematic single pass rolling experiments were carried out at room temperature on extra low carbon steel by varying the roll diameter ratio between 1:1 to 1:2 and thickness reduction per pass in the range of 20–75%. The aim of this study was to define the conditions under which the rolling texture can transit into a shear texture. The consequences for grain fragmentation, tensile strength, recrystallization texture, and grain growth kinetics were also studied. It was found that in a certain range of thickness reduction per pass and asymmetric ratio, an effective rotation towards the shear texture takes place in conventional rolling. The value of the shear coefficient factor (shear strain rate/rolling strain rate) in asymmetric rolling depends on the selection of thickness reduction per pass. The measured value of shear coefficient was found to be independent of the number of passes used in asymmetric rolling. The consequence of arising shear textures is an acceleration of grain fragmentation. After rapid heat treatment, both tensile strength and recrystallization kinetics of asymmetric rolled sheets showed merits over the conventional rolling. Only the evolved Goss orientation from asymmetric conditions of deformation shows higher stability than any other preferred shear texture components after complete recrystallization.
Structural Change in Ni-Fe-Ga Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys after Severe Plastic Deformation
Authors: Gurau Gheorghe , Gurau Carmela , Tolea Felicia , Sampath Vedamanickam
Published: June 2019

Severe plastic deformation (SPD) is widely considered to be the most efficient process in obtaining ultrafine-grained bulk materials. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of the SPD process on Ni-Fe-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (FSMA). High-speed high-pressure torsion (HSHPT) was applied in the as-cast state. The exerted key parameters of deformation are described. Microstructural changes, including morphology that were the result of processing, were investigated by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used to study the two-phase microstructure of the alloys. The influence of deformation on microstructural features, such as martensitic plates, intragranular γ phase precipitates, and grain boundaries’ dependence of the extent of deformation is disclosed by transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the work brings to light the influence of deformation on the characteristics of martensitic transformation (MT). Vickers hardness measurements were carried out on disks obtained by SPD so as to correlate the hardness with the microstructure. The method represents a feasible alternative to obtain ultrafine-grained bulk Ni-Fe-Ga alloys.
In Situ Study on Fracture Behavior of Z-Pinned Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite via Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
Authors: Zhang Yunhe , Wang Sian , Zhao Xiwang , Wang Fanming , Wu Gaohui
Published: June 2019

Inside a scanning electron microscope (SEM) chamber, we performed an in situ interlaminar shear test on a z-pinned carbon fiber-reinforced aluminum matrix composite (Cf/Al) fabricated by the pressure the infiltration method to understand its failure mechanism. Experiments show that introducing a stainless-steel z-pin increases the interlaminar shear strength of Cf/Al composite by 148%. The increase in interlaminar shear strength is attributed to the high strength of the stainless-steel z-pin and the strong bonding between the z-pin and the matrix. When the z-pin/matrix interface failed, the z-pin can still experience large shear deformation, thereby enhancing delamination resistance. The failure mechanism of composite includes interfacial debonding, aluminum plough, z-pin shear deformation, frictional sliding, and fracture. These results in this study will help us understand the interlaminar strengthening mechanism of z-pins in the delamination of metal matrix composites.
Si-Based Materials for Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Tanusilp Sora-at , Kurosaki Ken
Published: June 2019

Si-based thermoelectric materials have attracted attention in recent decades with their advantages of low toxicity, low production costs, and high stability. Here, we report recent achievements on the synthesis and characterization of Si-based thermoelectric materials. In the first part, we show that bulk Si synthesized through a natural nanostructuring method exhibits an exceptionally high thermoelectric figure of merit zT value of 0.6 at 1050 K. In the second part, we show the synthesis and characterization of nanocomposites of Si and metal silicides including CrSi2, CoSi2, TiSi2, and VSi2. These are synthesized by the rapid-solidification melt-spinning (MS) technique. Through MS, we confirm that silicide precipitates are dispersed homogenously in the Si matrix with desired nanoscale sizes. In the final part, we show a promising new metal silicide of YbSi2 for thermoelectrics, which exhibits an exceptionally high power factor at room temperature.
Surface Chemical Changes of Sugar Maple Wood Induced by Thermo-Hygromechanical (THM) Treatment
Authors: Fu Qilan , Cloutier Alain , Laghdir Aziz , Stevanovic Tatjana
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of heat and steam on the chemical properties of thermo-hygromechanical (THM)-densified sugar maple wood. The THM densification process was performed at two different temperatures (180 °C and 200 °C) with and without steam. The functional groups, surface chemical composition and internal structure and components of the control and densified samples were investigated using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). The obtained results suggest that the THM densification treatment resulted in significant chemical changes on the wood surface. The results of the ATR-FTIR spectra confirmed the decomposition of hemicelluloses and the relative increase of cellulose and lignin contents on the wood surface. The Py-GC/MS and XPS results show an increase of the oxygen/carbon atomic (O/C) ratio, which indicated that chemical substances containing oxygenated functionality were formed through the densification process. The densification treatment favored the depolymerization of hemicelluloses and cellulose as indicated by an increased anhydrous sugar (levoglucosan) release during the pyrolysis process. Densification also facilitated the cleavage of the lignin side chains, resulting in increased phenyl units with short chains released during the pyrolysis process.
Effect of Oxygen Concentration and Tantalum Addition on the Formation of High Temperature Bismuth Oxide Phase by Mechanochemical Reaction
Authors: Lin Hsiu-Na , Chen May-Show , Chang Yu-Hsueh , Lee Pee-Yew , Lin Chung-Kwei
Published: June 2019

High-temperature face-centered cubic bismuth oxide phase is a material of great interest given its unique properties. In the present study, α-Bi2O3 and tantalum powders were used as the starting powders for the formation of high-temperature bismuth oxide phase via mechanochemical synthesis by high energy ball milling. (Bi2O3)80(Ta)20 and (Bi2O3)95(Ta)5 in weight concentrations were milled in either an oxygen-free argon-filled glove box environment or an ambient atmosphere to investigate the effects of oxygen concentration and tantalum addition. The as-milled powders were examined using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry to reveal the structural evolution. The experimental results showed that for (Bi2O3)95(Ta)5 powder mixtures milled within the glove box, tantalum gradually reacted with the α-Bi2O3 phase and formed a β-Bi7.8Ta0.2O12.2 phase. For (Bi2O3)80(Ta)20 milled under the same conditions, Ta and α-Bi2O3 mechanochemically reacted to form δ-Bi3TaO7 and bismuth after 10 min of high energy ball milling, whereas milling (Bi2O3)80(Ta)20 under the ambient atmosphere with a much higher oxygen concentration accelerated the mechanochemical reaction to less than five minutes of milling and resulted in the formation of high-temperature δ-Bi3TaO7 phase.
Effects of Bi2O3 Doping on the Mechanical Properties of PbO Ceramic Pellets Used in Lead-Cooled Fast Reactors
Authors: Ma Yan , Yang Anxia , Zhu Huiping , Muhammad Arslan , Yang Pengwei , Huang Bokun , Niu Fenglei
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the effects of Bi2O3 doping on the mechanical properties of PbO ceramic pellets were studied. Different ratios of Bi2O3/PbO (i.e., xBi2O3-(1−x) PbO, where x is 0, 1, 3, 5, or 7 wt.%) were fabricated and sintered at 570, 620, and 670 °C. Mechanical properties including density, hardness, flexural strength, and sintering of PbO were studied for each of the aforementioned compositions. Phase composition, microstructure, and the worn surfaces of the composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The XRD analysis revealed that a solid solution formed in the composite ceramic. The best suited conditions of temperature and doping of Bi2O3 for optimal sintering were found to be 620 °C and 3 wt.%, respectively. The hardness of the 3 wt.% Bi2O3-97 wt.% PbO ceramic was found to be 717 MPa, which is about four times higher than the hardness of pure PbO. In addition, the strength of the composites was found to be 43 MPa, which is two times higher than that of pure PbO. The integrity of the composites was verified using the lead–bismuth eutectic alloy flushing experiment. The results of this research paper are important for future studies of oxygen control in the lead–bismuth eutectic alloy of lead-cooled fast reactors.
The Effect of Cellulose Nanocrystal Coatings on the Glass Fiber–Epoxy Interphase
Authors: Goswami Joyanta , Haque Ejaz , Fox Douglas M. , Gilman Jeffrey W. , Holmes Gale A. , Moon Robert J. , Kalaitzidou Kyriaki
Published: June 2019

This study focuses on understanding the effect of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) on glass fiber/epoxy interfacial interactions. The glass fibers (GF) were coated with solutions containing cellulose nanomaterial. The parameters that were investigated were the CNC surface chemistry, concentration, and dispersing medium, i.e., aqueous solution only versus emulsions. To determine the effect of the CNC coatings on the interfacial adhesion, specimens of a single GF in an epoxy matrix were prepared for GF coating by varying the coating formulations. The interfacial shear stress (IFSS) was determined by the single fiber fragmentation test (SFFT). Following the SFFT, the samples were investigated by cross-polarized microscopy in order to understand the fracture modes which are related to the nature of the interphase. According to the SFFT data and photoelastic fracture patterns, both the emulsion and aqueous coatings containing cellulose nanocrystals functionalized with methyl(triphenyl) phosphonium (CNCPh) improve the IFSS in comparison to coated GFs without CNCs.
Electrode Materials for High-Performance Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Mukherjee Santanu , Bin Mujib Shakir , Soares Davi , Singh Gurpreet
Published: June 2019

Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are being billed as an economical and environmental alternative to lithium ion batteries (LIBs), especially for medium and large-scale stationery and grid storage. However, SIBs suffer from lower capacities, energy density and cycle life performance. Therefore, in order to be more efficient and feasible, novel high-performance electrodes for SIBs need to be developed and researched. This review aims to provide an exhaustive discussion about the state-of-the-art in novel high-performance anodes and cathodes being currently analyzed, and the variety of advantages they demonstrate in various critically important parameters, such as electronic conductivity, structural stability, cycle life, and reversibility.
The Preparation and Chemical Structure Analysis of Novel POSS-Based Porous Materials
Authors: Yang Xiaomei , Yin Guangzhong , Li Zhiyong , Wu Pengfei , Jin Xiaopei , Li Qifang
Published: June 2019

In this work, we reported the preparation and chemical analysis of novel polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)-based porous materials, which were prepared according to Friedel-Crafts chloromethylation by using aluminum chloride as the catalyst and dichloromethane as the solvent. Through controlling the treatment solvent (water or methanol) and kinds of POSS, several materials with different morphologies were conveniently obtained. The chemical structure of porous materials was systematically characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, 29Si Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The samples were further characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to study their crystallinity, morphology, and thermal properties, respectively. The work systematically demonstrated the chemical structure of the porous materials. Moreover, the advantages and disadvantages of the preparation method and typical properties of the material were evaluated through a comparative analysis with other related research works.
Nonlinear Response of Tilting Pad Journal Bearings to Harmonic Excitation
Authors: Ciulli Enrico , Forte Paola
Published: June 2019

In the experimental identification of dynamic bearing coefficients, usually small perturbations around the static equilibrium position are assumed and linear coefficients are considered. In the literature, studies on non-linear effects in plain journal bearings, especially from a numerical point of view, are reported. Few similar studies can be found on tilting pad journal bearings (TPJB). The present work reports some peculiar aspects observed during the experimental identification procedure of TPJB linear dynamic coefficients. The tests are performed on a test bench designed for large size journal bearings operating at high peripheral speeds and static loads. A quasi-static procedure is developed to quickly check the results obtained from the usually adopted dynamic excitation. It consists of applying a slowly rotating force to the floating stator and measuring the relative displacement of the stator from the rotating shaft. Different levels of static and dynamic load are applied to two different TPJBs with four and five pads. Deformed orbits have been observed increasing the ratio between dynamic load and static load, suggesting the presence of non-linearity. Similar results are obtained with simple analytical models assuming suitably tuned non-linear stiffness terms.
Generalized Geodesic Convexity on Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: Ahmad Izhar , Khan Meraj Ali , A. Ishan Amira
Published: June 2019

We introduce log-preinvex and log-invex functions on a Riemannian manifold. Some properties and relationships of these functions are discussed. A characterization for the existence of a global minimum point of a mathematical programming problem is presented. Moreover, a mean value inequality under geodesic log-preinvexity is extended to Cartan-Hadamard manifolds.
Some Classes of Harmonic Mapping with a Symmetric Conjecture Point Defined by Subordination
Authors: Ma Lina , Li Shuhai , Niu Xiaomeng
Published: June 2019

In the paper, we introduce some subclasses of harmonic mapping, the analytic part of which is related to general starlike (or convex) functions with a symmetric conjecture point defined by subordination. Using the conditions satisfied by the analytic part, we obtain the integral expressions, the coefficient estimates, distortion estimates and the growth estimates of the co-analytic part g, and Jacobian estimates, the growth estimates and covering theorem of the harmonic function f. Through the above research, the geometric properties of the classes are obtained. In particular, we draw figures of extremum functions to better reflect the geometric properties of the classes. For the first time, we introduce and obtain the properties of harmonic univalent functions with respect to symmetric conjugate points. The conclusion of this paper extends the original research.
Numeric-Analytic Solutions for Nonlinear Oscillators via the Modified Multi-Stage Decomposition Method
Authors: Az-Zo’bi Emad A. , Al-Khaled Kamel , Darweesh Amer
Published: June 2019

This work deals with a new modified version of the Adomian-Rach decomposition method (MDM). The MDM is based on combining a series solution and decomposition method for solving nonlinear differential equations with Adomian polynomials for nonlinearities. With application to a class of nonlinear oscillators known as the Lienard-type equations, convergence and error analysis are discussed. Several physical problems modeled by Lienard-type equations are considered to illustrate the effectiveness, performance and reliability of the method. In comparison to the 4th Runge-Kutta method (RK4), highly accurate solutions on a large domain are obtained.
A Study of Regular and Irregular Neutrosophic Graphs with Real Life Applications
Authors: Huang Liangsong , Hu Yu , Li Yuxia , Kumar P. K. Kishore , Koley Dipak , Dey Arindam
Published: June 2019

Fuzzy graph theory is a useful and well-known tool to model and solve many real-life optimization problems. Since real-life problems are often uncertain due to inconsistent and indeterminate information, it is very hard for an expert to model those problems using a fuzzy graph. A neutrosophic graph can deal with the uncertainty associated with the inconsistent and indeterminate information of any real-world problem, where fuzzy graphs may fail to reveal satisfactory results. The concepts of the regularity and degree of a node play a significant role in both the theory and application of graph theory in the neutrosophic environment. In this work, we describe the utility of the regular neutrosophic graph and bipartite neutrosophic graph to model an assignment problem, a road transport network, and a social network. For this purpose, we introduce the definitions of the regular neutrosophic graph, star neutrosophic graph, regular complete neutrosophic graph, complete bipartite neutrosophic graph, and regular strong neutrosophic graph. We define the d m - and t d m -degrees of a node in a regular neutrosophic graph. Depending on the degree of the node, this paper classifies the regularity of a neutrosophic graph into three types, namely d m -regular, t d m -regular, and m-highly irregular neutrosophic graphs. We present some theorems and properties of those regular neutrosophic graphs. The concept of an m-highly irregular neutrosophic graph on cycle and path graphs is also investigated in this paper. The definition of busy and free nodes in a regular neutrosophic graph is presented here. We introduce the idea of the μ -complement and h-morphism of a regular neutrosophic graph. Some properties of complement and isomorphic regular neutrosophic graphs are presented here.
Generalizations of Several Inequalities Related to Multivariate Geometric Means
Authors: Xi Bo-Yan , Wu Ying , Shi Huan-Nan , Qi Feng
Published: June 2019

In the paper, by some methods in the theory of majorization, the authors generalize several inequalities related to multivariate geometric means.
How to Obtain Global Convergence Domains via Newton’s Method for Nonlinear Integral Equations
Authors: Ezquerro José Antonio , Hernández-Verón Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2019

We use the theoretical significance of Newton’s method to draw conclusions about the existence and uniqueness of solution of a particular type of nonlinear integral equations of Fredholm. In addition, we obtain a domain of global convergence for Newton’s method.
Hirsutanol A Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Mediated Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Expression and Cytokines Production and Improves Endotoxemia-Induced Acute Sickness Behavior and Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Jan Jing-Shiun , Yang Chih-Hao , Wang Mong-Heng , Lin Fan-Li , Yen Jing-Lun , Hsieh Irene , Khotimchenko Maksim , Lee Tzong-Huei , Hsiao George
Published: June 2019

Activated human monocytes/macrophages, which increase the levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, are the essential mechanisms for the progression of sepsis. In the present study, we determined the functions and mechanisms of hirsutanolA (HA), which is isolated from the red alga-derived marine fungus Chondrostereum sp. NTOU4196, on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators produced from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated THP-1 cells. Our results showed that HA suppressed LPS-triggered MMP-9-mediated gelatinolysis and expression of protein and mRNA in a concentration-dependent manner without effects on TIMP-1 activity. Also, HA significantly attenuated the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β from LPS-treated THP-1 cells. Moreover, HA significantly inhibited LPS-mediated STAT3 (Tyr705) phosphorylation, IκBα degradation and ERK1/2 activation in THP-1 cells. In an LPS-induced endotoxemia mouse model, studies indicated that HA pretreatment improved endotoxemia-induced acute sickness behavior, including acute motor deficits and anxiety-like behavior. HA also attenuated LPS-induced phospho-STAT3 and pro-MMP-9 activity in the hippocampus. Notably, HA reduced pathologic lung injury features, including interstitial tissue edema, infiltration of inflammatory cells and alveolar collapse. Likewise, HA suppressed the induction of phospho-STAT3 and pro-MMP-9 in lung tissues. In conclusion, our results provide pharmacological evidence that HA could be a useful agent for treating inflammatory diseases, including sepsis.
Experimental Models of Glaucoma: A Powerful Translational Tool for the Future Development of New Therapies for Glaucoma in Humans—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Evangelho Karine , Mastronardi Claudio A. , de-la-Torre Alejandra
Published: June 2019

Glaucoma is a common complex disease that leads to irreversible blindness worldwide. Even though preclinical studies showed that lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) could prevent retinal ganglion cells loss, clinical evidence suggests that lessening IOP does not prevent glaucoma progression in all patients. Glaucoma is also becoming more prevalent in the elderly population, showing that age is a recognized major risk factor. Indeed, recent findings suggest that age-related tissue alterations contribute to the development of glaucoma and have encouraged exploration for new treatment approaches. In this review, we provide information on the most frequently used experimental models of glaucoma and describe their advantages and limitations. Additionally, we describe diverse animal models of glaucoma that can be potentially used in translational medicine and aid an efficient shift to the clinic. Experimental animal models have helped to understand the mechanisms of formation and evacuation of aqueous humor, and the maintenance of homeostasis of intra-ocular pressure. However, the transfer of pre-clinical results obtained from animal studies into clinical trials may be difficult since the type of study does not only depend on the type of therapy to be performed, but also on a series of factors observed both in the experimental period and the period of transfer to clinical application. Conclusions: Knowing the exact characteristics of each glaucoma experimental model could help to diminish inconveniences related to the process of the translation of results into clinical application in humans.
Detection of the BRAF V600E Mutation in Colorectal Cancer by NIR Spectroscopy in Conjunction with Counter Propagation Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Xue , Yang Yang , Wang Yalan , Fan Qi
Published: June 2019

This paper proposes a sensitive, sample preparation-free, rapid, and low-cost method for the detection of the B-rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (BRAF) gene mutation involving a substitution of valine to glutamic acid at codon 600 (V600E) in colorectal cancer (CRC) by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in conjunction with counter propagation artificial neural network (CP-ANN). The NIR spectral data from 104 paraffin-embedded CRC tissue samples consisting of an equal number of the BRAF V600E mutant and wild-type ones calibrated and validated the CP-ANN model. As a result, the CP-ANN model had the classification accuracy of calibration (CAC) 98.0%, cross-validation (CACV) 95.0% and validation (CAV) 94.4%. When used to detect the BRAF V600E mutation in CRC, the model showed a diagnostic sensitivity of 100.0%, a diagnostic specificity of 87.5%, and a diagnostic accuracy of 93.8%. Moreover, this method was proven to distinguish the BRAF V600E mutant from the wild type based on intrinsic differences by using a total of 312 CRC tissue samples paraffin-embedded, deparaffinized, and stained. The novel method can be used for the auxiliary diagnosis of the BRAF V600E mutation in CRC. This work can expand the application of NIR spectroscopy in the auxiliary diagnosis of gene mutation in human cancer.
Structural Characterization of Arabidopsis thaliana NAP1-Related Protein 2 (AtNRP2) and Comparison with Its Homolog AtNRP1
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Kumar Singh Ajit , Chandrakant Bobde Ruchir , Vasudevan Dileep
Published: June 2019

Nucleosome Assembly Protein (NAP) is a highly conserved family of histone chaperones present in yeast, animals, and plants. Unlike other organisms, plants possess an additional class of proteins in its NAP family, known as the NAP1-related proteins or NRP. Arabidopsis thaliana possesses two NRP isoforms, namely AtNRP1 and AtNRP2, that share 87% sequence identity. Both AtNRP1 and AtNRP2 get expressed in all the plant tissues. Most works in the past, including structural studies, have focused on AtNRP1. We wanted to do a comparative study of the two proteins to find why the plant would have two very similar proteins and whether there is any difference between the two for their structure and function as histone chaperones. Here we report the crystal structure of AtNRP2 and a comparative analysis of its structural architecture with other NAP family proteins. The crystal structure of AtNRP2 shows it to be a homodimer, with its fold similar to that of other structurally characterized NAP family proteins. Although AtNRP1 and AtNRP2 have a similar fold, upon structural superposition, we find an offset in the dimerization helix of the two proteins. We evaluated the stability, oligomerization status, and histone chaperoning properties of the two proteins, for a comparison. The thermal melting experiments suggest that AtNRP2 is more stable than AtNRP1 at higher temperatures. In addition, electrophoretic mobility shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry experiments suggest histone binding ability of AtNRP2 is higher than that of AtNRP1. Overall, these results provide insights about the specific function and relevance of AtNRP2 in plants through structural and biophysical studies.
miR-625-3p and lncRNA GAS5 in Liquid Biopsies for Predicting the Outcome of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Patients Treated with Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy and Surgery
Authors: Kresoja-Rakic Jelena , Szpechcinski Adam , Kirschner Michaela B. , Ronner Manuel , Minatel Brenda , Martinez Victor D. , Lam Wan L. , Weder Walter , Stahel Rolf , Früh Martin , Cerciello Ferdinando , Felley-Bosco Emanuela
Published: June 2019

Combining neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and surgery is part of multimodality treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), but not all patients benefit from this approach. In this exploratory analysis, we investigated the prognostic value of circulating miR-625-3p and lncRNA GAS5 after neo-adjuvant chemotherapy. 36 MPM patients from the SAKK 17/04 trial (NCT00334594), whose blood was available before and after chemotherapy were investigated. RNA was isolated from plasma and reverse transcribed into cDNA. miR-16-5p and β-actin were used as a reference gene for miR-625-3p and GAS5, respectively. After exclusion of samples due to hemolysis or RNA degradation, paired plasma samples from 32 patients before and after chemotherapy were further analyzed. Quantification of miR-625-3p levels in all 64 samples revealed a bimodal distribution and cloning and sequencing of miR-625-3p qPCR product revealed the presence of miR-625-3p isomiRs. Relative change of the circulating miR-625-3p and GAS5 levels after chemotherapy showed that increased circulating miR-625-3p and decreased GAS5 was significantly associated with disease progression (Fisher’s test, p = 0.0393). In addition, decreased levels of circulating GAS5 were significantly associated with shorter overall and progression-free survival. Our exploratory analysis revealed a potential value of circulating non-coding RNA for selection of patients likely to benefit from surgery after platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy.
Preparation and Identification of Novel Antihypertensive Peptides from the In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion of Marine Cobia Skin Hydrolysates
Authors: Lin Yu-Hsin , Chen Chun-An , Tsai Jenn-Shou , Chen Guan-Wen
Published: June 2019

This research focuses on cobia skin hydrolysates and their antihypertensive effects via the inhibitory activities of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). Marine fish Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) skin was hydrolysed for 5 h using Protamex and Protease N to obtain the cobia skin protein hydrolysates PX-5 and PN-5, respectively. The soluble protein and peptide contents of the PX-5 were 612 and 270 mg/g, respectively, and for the PN-5, 531 and 400 mg/g, respectively. The IC50 of PX-5 and PN-5 on ACE was 0.221 and 0.291 mg/mL, respectively. Increasing the IC50 from 0.221 to 0.044 mg/mL by simulated gastrointestinal digestion (PX-5G) reduced the ACE-inhibitory capacity of PX-5. Using gel filtration chromatography, the PX-5G was fractioned into eight fractions. The molecular weight of the fifth fraction from PX-5G was between 630 and 450 Da, and the highest inhibitory efficiency ratio on ACE was 1552.4%/mg/mL. We identified four peptide sequences: Trp-Ala-Ala, Ala-Trp-Trp, Ile-Trp-Trp, and Trp-Leu, with IC50 values for ACE of 118.50, 9.40, 0.51, and 26.80 μM, respectively. At a dose of 600 mg PX-5 powder/kg body weight, in spontaneously hypertensive rats PX-5’s antihypertensive effect significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 21.9 and 15.5 mm Hg, respectively, after 4 h of oral gavage.
Subjective Hunger, Gastric Upset, and Sleepiness in Response to Altered Meal Timing during Simulated Shiftwork
Authors: Gupta Charlotte C , Centofanti Stephanie , Dorrian Jillian , Coates Alison M , Stepien Jacqueline M , Kennaway David , Wittert Gary , Heilbronn Leonie , Catcheside Peter , Noakes Manny , Coro Daniel , Chandrakumar Dilushi , Banks Siobhan
Published: June 2019

Shiftworkers report eating during the night when the body is primed to sleep. This study investigated the impact of altering food timing on subjective responses. Healthy participants (n = 44, 26 male, age Mean ± SD = 25.0 ± 2.9 years, BMI = 23.82 ± 2.59kg/m2) participated in a 7-day simulated shiftwork protocol. Participants were randomly allocated to one of three eating conditions. At 00:30, participants consumed a meal comprising 30% of 24 h energy intake (Meal condition; n = 14, 8 males), a snack comprising 10% of 24 h energy intake (Snack condition; n = 14; 8 males) or did not eat during the night (No Eating condition; n = 16, 10 males). Total 24 h individual energy intake and macronutrient content was constant across conditions. During the night, participants reported hunger, gut reaction, and sleepiness levels at 21:00, 23:30, 2:30, and 5:00. Mixed model analyses revealed that the snack condition reported significantly more hunger than the meal group (p < 0.001) with the no eating at night group reporting the greatest hunger (p < 0.001). There was no difference in desire to eat between meal and snack groups. Participants reported less sleepiness after the snack compared to after the meal (p < 0.001) or when not eating during the night (p < 0.001). Gastric upset did not differ between conditions. A snack during the nightshift could alleviate hunger during the nightshift without causing fullness or increased sleepiness.
Glycine Metabolism and Its Alterations in Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Alves Anaïs , Bassot Arthur , Bulteau Anne-Laure , Pirola Luciano , Morio Béatrice
Published: June 2019

Glycine is the proteinogenic amino-acid of lowest molecular weight, harboring a hydrogen atom as a side-chain. In addition to being a building-block for proteins, glycine is also required for multiple metabolic pathways, such as glutathione synthesis and regulation of one-carbon metabolism. Although generally viewed as a non-essential amino-acid, because it can be endogenously synthesized to a certain extent, glycine has also been suggested as a conditionally essential amino acid. In metabolic disorders associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLDs), lower circulating glycine levels have been consistently observed, and clinical studies suggest the existence of beneficial effects induced by glycine supplementation. The present review aims at synthesizing the recent advances in glycine metabolism, pinpointing its main metabolic pathways, identifying the causes leading to glycine deficiency—especially in obesity and associated metabolic disorders—and evaluating the potential benefits of increasing glycine availability to curb the progression of obesity and obesity-related metabolic disturbances. This study focuses on the importance of diet, gut microbiota, and liver metabolism in determining glycine availability in obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
Maternal and Infant Factors Associated with Human Milk Oligosaccharides Concentrations According to Secretor and Lewis Phenotypes
Authors: M. Tonon Karina , B. de Morais Mauro , F. V. Abrão Ana Cristina , Miranda Antonio , B. Morais Tania
Published: June 2019

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are multifunctional carbohydrates naturally present in human milk that act as prebiotics, prevent pathogen binding and infections, modulate the immune system and may support brain development in infants. HMOs composition is very individualized and differences in HMOs concentrations may affect the infant’s health. HMOs variability can be partially explained by the activity of Secretor (Se) and Lewis (Le) genes in the mother, but non-genetic maternal factors may also be involved. In this cross-sectional, observational study, 78 single human milk samples ranging from 17 to 76 days postpartum (median: 32 days, IQR: 25–46 days) were collected from breastfeeding Brazilian women, analyzed for 16 representative HMOs by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and associations between maternal and infant factors with HMOs concentrations were investigated. HMOs concentrations presented a high variability even in women with the same SeLe phenotype and associations with maternal allergic disease, time postpartum and with infant’s weight, weight gain and sex. Overall, we present unprecedented data on HMOs concentrations from breastfeeding Brazilian women and novel associations of maternal allergic disease and infant’s sex with HMOs concentrations. Differences in HMOs composition attributed to maternal SeLe phenotype do not impact infant growth, but higher concentrations of specific HMOs may protect against excessive weight gain.
Photodynamic Therapy of Ovarian Carcinoma Cells with Curcumin-Loaded Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Duse Lili , Agel Michael Rene , Pinnapireddy Shashank Reddy , Schäfer Jens , Selo Mohammed A. , Ehrhardt Carsten , Bakowsky Udo
Published: June 2019

Accumulation of photosensitisers in photodynamic therapy in healthy tissues is often the cause of unwanted side effects. Using nanoparticles, improved bioavailability and site-specific drug uptake can be achieved. In this study, curcumin, a natural product with anticancer properties, albeit with poor aqueous solubility, was encapsulated in biodegradable polymeric poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (CUR-NP). Dynamic light scattering, laser Doppler anemometry and atomic force microscopy were used to characterise the formulations. Using haemolysis, serum stability and activated partial thromboplastin time tests, the biocompatibility of CUR-NP was assessed. Particle uptake and accumulation were determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Therapeutic efficacy of the formulation was tested in SK-OV-3 human ovarian adenocarcinoma cells post low level LED irradiation by determining the generation of reactive oxygen species and cytotoxicity. Pharmacologic inhibitors of cellular uptake pathways were used to identify the particle uptake mechanism. CUR-NP exhibited better physicochemical properties such as stability in the presence of light and improved serum stability compared to free curcumin. In addition, the novel nanoformulation facilitated the use of higher amounts of curcumin and showed strong apoptotic effects on tumour cells.
In Vitro Regeneration of Capparis spinosa L. by Using a Temporary Immersion System
Authors: Gianguzzi Valeria , Inglese Paolo , Barone Ettore , Sottile Francesco
Published: June 2019

Three caper (Capparis spinosa L.) biotypes grown on the Sicilian island of Salina (38°33′49″ N) were micropropagated to evaluate two different in vitro culture systems: one using the traditional solid medium, and the other based on liquid culture in a PlantForm bioreactor. PlantForm is a temporary immersion system (TIS), a new propagation method in which the shoots undergo temporary immersion in a liquid medium in order to avoid the accumulation of gas through forced ventilation. This study proposes a protocol to improve the efficiency of in vitro propagation of caper plants, while also reducing production costs, because of the elimination of the gelling agent, and manual labor, requiring limited subcultures and posing minimal contamination risks. Our results show that the caper shoots propagated in bioreactors demonstrated good adaptability and better growth rates than those grown in the conventional system. Statistically significant differences were observed between plants grown in the PlantForm liquid culture and those grown in solid medium regarding the number and length of shoots, which were further promoted by the addition of plant growth regulators (PGRs). The relative growth and real proliferation rate of the caper explants were higher when using meta-Topolin than when using 6-benzylaminopurine as a PGR. Overall, the TIS improved in vitro caper culture by promoting the proliferation, length, and vigor of the shoots.
The Use of Polymers in the Flotation Treatment of Wastewater
Authors: Bolto Brian , Xie Zongli
Published: June 2019

The use of flotation for the treatment of wastewaters in general, but especially for the removal of oil, grease, general organic matter, and suspended solids, is well established as a low energy process. Polyelectrolytes (PEs) can enhance performance without adding to the solids load that occurs with inorganic additives such as alum. The bridging of pollutants and the attachment of the resulting aggregates to the air-water interface can be effectively carried out with most wastewaters. Hydrophobic modification of the PEs can be useful for difficult species. It should be applied to the flotation of polyfluoroalkyl substances, for example, as they are not amenable to economical conventional treatment. Similarly, the removal of microplastic particles from sewage effluents by flotation could be enhanced.
Lipid Isolation Process and Study on Some Molecular Species of Polar Lipid Isolated from Seed of Madhuca ellitica
Authors: Phuong Doan Lan , Toan Tran Quoc , Dang Ly P. T. , Imbs Andrey B. , Long Pham Quoc , Thang Tran Dinh , Matthaeus Bertrand , Bach Long Giang , Bui Le Minh
Published: June 2019

This study attempted the lipid extraction process from the seeds of Madhuca ellitica, a lipid-rich plant, and conducted a lipidomic analysis on molecular species of the obtained product. Total lipids of the crude seeds were found to contain 11.2% of polar lipids. The major fatty acids (FAs) of the polar lipids were palmitic (16:0), stearic (18:0), oleic (18:1n-9), and linoleic (18:2n-6) acids, which amounted to 28.5, 12.5, 44.8, and 13.2% of total FAs, respectively. The content and chemical structures of individual molecular species of phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidic acid (PA), and sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol (SQDG) were determined by HPLC with a tandem high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The major molecular species were 18:1/18:2 PE, 16:0/18:1 PC, 18:1/18:2 PC, 16:0/18:2 PG, 16:0/18:1 PG, 16:1/18:1 PI, 16:0/18:1 PI, 18:0/18:2 PI, 16:0/18:1 PA, 18:1/18:2 PA, 16:0/18:1 SQDG, and 18:0/18:1 SQDG. The application of a tandem HRMS allows us to determine the content of each isomer in pairs of the monoisotopic molecular species, for example, 18:0/18:2 and 18:1/18:1. The evaluation of the seed polar lipid profile will be helpful for developing the potential of this tree for nutritive and industrial uses.
The Saint in the Woods: Semi-Domestic Shrines in Rural Sweden, c. 1500–1800
Authors: Zachrisson Terese
Published: June 2019

In the seventeenth century, a common saying in parts of rural Sweden when discussing someone lacking in piety was that they went to neither church nor cross. This reflects the practice of placing shrines in the fields, along the roads and in the woods as a communal semi-domestic complement to official church space. In the remote woodland areas of Sweden, the distance between parish churches could be considerable, and many parishioners were not able to attend church on a regular, weekly basis. At these sites, parishioners could kneel and make their prayers as a complement to church service. However, they could also be used as points of contact in communicating domestic issues with the divine, with votives being left at the shrines by those hoping for deliverance from disease and difficult childbirths. In the post-reformation period, such sites were regarded with suspicion by the higher ranks of the clergy, and were often considered “idolatrous” and “superstitious”. Yet, they seem to have filled an important religious need among their laity that made it possible to interact with the divine on sites bordering the domestic and the public space of the church.
Life Cycle Assessment of Reusable Plastic Crates (RPCs)
Authors: Tua Camilla , Biganzoli Laura , Grosso Mario , Rigamonti Lucia
Published: June 2019

The European packaging market is forecast to grow 1.9% annually in the next years, with an increasing use of returnable packages. In this context, it is important to assess the real environmental effectiveness of the packaging re-use practice in terms of environmental impacts. This life cycle assessment aims to evaluate the environmental performances of reusable plastic crates (RPCs), which are used for the distribution of 36% of fruit and vegetables in Italy. RPCs can be re-used several times after a reconditioning process, i.e., inspection, washing, and sanitization with hot water and chemicals. The analysis was performed considering 12 impact categories, as well as the cumulative energy demand indicator and a tailor-made water consumption indicator. The results show that when the RPCs are used for less than 20 deliveries, the impacts of the life cycle are dominated by the manufacturing stage. By increasing the number of deliveries, the contribution of the reconditioning process increases, reaching 30–70% of the overall impacts for 125 uses. A minimum of three deliveries of the RPCs is required in order to perform better than an alternative system where crates of the same capacity (but 60% lighter) are single-use. The same modeling approach can be used to evaluate the environmental sustainability of other types of returnable packages, in order to have a complete overview for the Italian context and other European countries.