bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical and Biological Properties of Gelatin Extracted from Marine Snail Rapana venosa
Authors: Gaspar-Pintiliescu Alexandra , Stefan Laura Mihaela , Anton Elena Daniela , Berger Daniela , Matei Cristian , Negreanu-Pirjol Ticuta , Moldovan Lucia
Published: October 2019

In this study, we aimed to obtain gelatin from the marine snail Rapana venosa using acidic and enzymatic extraction methods and to characterize these natural products for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Marine gelatins presented protein values and hydroxyproline content similar to those of commercial mammalian gelatin, but with higher melting temperatures. Their electrophoretic profile and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed protein and absorption bands situated in the amide region, specific for gelatin molecule. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed significant differences in the structure of the lyophilized samples, depending on the type of gelatin. In vitro studies performed on human keratinocytes showed no cytotoxic effect of acid-extracted gelatin at all tested concentrations and moderate cytotoxicity of enzymatic extracted gelatin at concentrations higher than 0.5 mg/mL. Also, both marine gelatins favored keratinocyte cell adhesion. No irritant potential was recorded as the level of IL-1α and IL-6 proinflammatory cytokines released by HaCaT cells cultivated in the presence of marine gelatins was significantly reduced. Together, these data suggest that marine snails are an alternative source of gelatins with potential use in pharmaceutical and skincare products.
Damage Evolution Due to Extremely Low-Cycle Fatigue for Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Algarni Mohammed , Bai Yuanli , Zwawi Mohammed , Ghazali Sami
Published: October 2019

This paper evaluates the damage evolution process under extremely low-cycle fatigue (ELCF). The study explores the damage behavior under different stress states. The influence of the multiaxial state of stress on the metal’s life is determined. Two different stress states were examined: (a) axisymmetric and (b) plane-strain. The study is based on the modified Mohr–Coulomb (MMC) ductile fracture criterion that was extended to cover the ELCF regime in a previous research study. Four distinctive geometries are designed to study the effect of different stress states on ELCF life and damage evolution. The damage model is calibrated for life prediction to agree with the ELCF experimental results. The investigation of the damage evolution behavior is dependent on equivalent plastic strain, stress triaxiality, Lode angle, and cyclic loading effect. The damage evolution is extracted from Abaqus finite element simulations and plotted versus the equivalent plastic strain. The damage accumulation shows nonlinear evolution behavior under cyclic loading conditions. SEM images were taken to further study the microscopic failure mechanisms of ELCF.
Fatigue Behaviour and Crack Initiation in CoCrFeNiMn High-Entropy Alloy Processed by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Chlup Zdeněk , Fintová Stanislava , Hadraba Hynek , Kuběna Ivo , Vilémová Monika , Matějíček Jiří
Published: October 2019

Single-phase equiatomic five-element high entropy alloy CoCrFeMnNi was prepared by powder metallurgy. Two materials with ultra-fine-grained microstructure were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) of ball-milled powder at two sintering times (5 and 10 min), assigned as HEA 5 and HEA 10, respectively. Basic microstructural and mechanical properties were evaluated. The median grain size of the microstructures was determined to be 0.4 and 0.6 μm for HEA 5 and HEA 10, respectively. The differences in the microstructure led to a significant change in strength and deformation characteristics evaluated at room temperature. The effect of cyclic loading was monitored by three-point bending fatigue test. The results show that even relatively small change in the microstructure causes a significant effect on fatigue life. The fatigue endurance limit was measured to be 1100 MPa and 1000 MPa for HEA 5 and HEA 10, respectively. The detailed fractographic analysis revealed that abnormally large grains, localised in the microstructure on the tensile loaded surface, were a typical fatigue initiation site. The formation of (nano) twins together with dislocation slips caused the crack nucleation because of the cyclic loading.
Pathogenetic Impact of Bacterial–Fungal Interactions
Authors: Nogueira Filomena , Sharghi Shirin , Kuchler Karl , Lion Thomas
Published: October 2019

Polymicrobial infections are of paramount importance because of the potential severity of clinical manifestations, often associated with increased resistance to antimicrobial treatment. The intricate interplay with the host and the immune system, and the impact on microbiome imbalance, are of importance in this context. The equilibrium of microbiota in the human host is critical for preventing potential dysbiosis and the ensuing development of disease. Bacteria and fungi can communicate via signaling molecules, and produce metabolites and toxins capable of modulating the immune response or altering the efficacy of treatment. Most of the bacterial–fungal interactions described to date focus on the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans and different bacteria. In this review, we discuss more than twenty different bacterial–fungal interactions involving several clinically important human pathogens. The interactions, which can be synergistic or antagonistic, both in vitro and in vivo, are addressed with a focus on the quorum-sensing molecules produced, the response of the immune system, and the impact on clinical outcome.
Synthesis and Glycosidase Inhibition of Broussonetine M and Its Analogues
Authors: Wu Qing-Kun , Kinami Kyoko , Kato Atsushi , Li Yi-Xian , Jia Yue-Mei , Fleet George W. J. , Yu Chu-Yi
Published: October 2019

Cross-metathesis (CM) and Keck asymmetric allylation, which allows access to defined stereochemistry of a remote side chain hydroxyl group, are the key steps in a versatile synthesis of broussonetine M (3) from the d-arabinose-derived cyclic nitrone 14. By a similar strategy, ent-broussonetine M (ent-3) and six other stereoisomers have been synthesized, respectively, starting from l-arabino-nitrone (ent-14), l-lyxo-nitrone (ent-3-epi-14), and l-xylo-nitrone (2-epi-14) in five steps, in 26%–31% overall yield. The natural product broussonetine M (3) and 10’-epi-3 were potent inhibitors of β-glucosidase (IC50 = 6.3 μM and 0.8 μM, respectively) and β-galactosidase (IC50 = 2.3 μM and 0.2 μM, respectively); while their enantiomers, ent-3 and ent-10’-epi-3, were selective and potent inhibitors of rice α-glucosidase (IC50 = 1.2 μM and 1.3 μM, respectively) and rat intestinal maltase (IC50 = 0.29 μM and 18 μM, respectively). Both the configuration of the polyhydroxylated pyrrolidine ring and C-10’ hydroxyl on the alkyl side chain affect the specificity and potency of glycosidase inhibition.
Essential Oils and Their Natural Active Compounds Presenting Antifungal Properties
Authors: D’agostino Maurine , Tesse Nicolas , Frippiat Jean Pol , Machouart Marie , Debourgogne Anne
Published: October 2019

The current rise in invasive fungal infections due to the increase in immunosuppressive therapies is a real concern. Moreover, the emergence of resistant strains induces therapeutic failures. In light of these issues, new classes of antifungals are anticipated. Therefore, the plant kingdom represents an immense potential of natural resources to exploit for these purposes. The aim of this review is to provide information about the antifungal effect of some important essential oils, and to describe the advances made in determining the mechanism of action more precisely. Finally, the issues of toxicity and resistance of fungi to essential oils will be discussed.
Synthesis of 9-Hydroxystearic Acid Derivatives and Their Antiproliferative Activity on HT 29 Cancer Cells
Authors: Calonghi Natalia , Boga Carla , Telese Dario , Bordoni Silvia , Sartor Giorgio , Torsello Chiara , Micheletti Gabriele
Published: October 2019

9-Hydroxystearic acid (9-HSA) is an endogenous cellular lipid that possesses antiproliferative and selective effects against cancer cells. A series of derivatives were synthesized in order to investigate the effect of the substituent in position 9 and on the methyl ester functionality on the biological activity. The two separate enantiomers of methyl 9-hydroxystearate and of methyl 9-aminostearate showed antiproliferative activity against the HT29 cell line. This indicates the importance of position 9 groups being able to make hydrogen bonding with the molecular target. Further, this effect must be preserved when the carboxy group of 9-HSA is esterified. The biological tests showed that the amines, contrarily to methyl esters, resulted in cytotoxicity. A deep investigation on the effect of methyl (R)-9-hydroxystearate on HT29 cells showed an antiproliferative effect acting through the CDKN1A and MYCBP gene expression.
Recent Progress in the Development of Fluorescent Probes for Thiophenol
Authors: Hao Yuanqiang , Yin Qianye , Zhang Yintang , Xu Maotian , Chen Shu
Published: October 2019

Thiophenol (PhSH) belongs to a class of highly reactive and toxic aromatic thiols with widespread applications in the chemical industry for preparing pesticides, polymers, and pharmaceuticals. In this review, we comprehensively summarize recent progress in the development of fluorescent probes for detecting and imaging PhSH. These probes are classified according to recognition moieties and are detailed on the basis of their structures and sensing performances. In addition, prospects for future research are also discussed.
HU-671, a Novel Oleoyl Serine Derivative, Exhibits Enhanced Efficacy in Reversing Ovariectomy-Induced Osteoporosis and Bone Marrow Adiposity
Authors: Baraghithy Saja , Smoum Reem , Attar-Namdar Malka , Mechoulam Raphael , Bab Itai , Tam Joseph
Published: October 2019

Oleoyl serine (OS), an endogenous fatty acyl amide (FAA) found in bone, has been shown to have an anti-osteoporotic effect. OS, being an amide, can be hydrolyzed in the body by amidases. Hindering its amide bond by introducing adjacent substituents has been demonstrated as a successful method for prolonging its skeletal activity. Here, we tested the therapeutic efficacy of two methylated OS derivatives, oleoyl α-methyl serine (HU-671) and 2-methyl-oleoyl serine (HU-681), in an ovariectomized mouse model for osteoporosis by utilizing combined micro-computed tomography, histomorphometry, and cell culture analyses. Our findings indicate that daily treatment for 6 weeks with OS or HU-671 completely rescues bone loss, whereas HU-681 has only a partial effect. The increased bone density was primarily due to enhanced trabecular thickness and number. Moreover, the most effective dose of HU-671 was 0.5 mg/kg/day, an order of magnitude lower than with OS. The reversal of bone loss resulted from increased bone formation and decreased bone resorption, as well as reversal of bone marrow adiposity. These results were further confirmed by determining the serum levels of osteocalcin and type 1 collagen C-terminal crosslinks, as well as demonstrating the enhanced antiadipogenic effect of HU-671. Taken together, these data suggest that methylation interferes with OS’s metabolism, thus enhancing its effects by extending its availability to its target cells.
20(S)-Protopanaxadiol Saponins Mainly Contribute to the Anti-Atherogenic Effects of Panax notoginseng in ApoE Deficient Mice
Authors: Liu Conghui , Feng Ruibing , Zou Jian , Xia Fangbo , Wan Jian-Bo
Published: October 2019

Atherosclerosis mainly contributes to cardiovascular disease, a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are proved to therapeutically attenuate the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. According to different sapogenin, PNS are generally classified into 20(S)-protopanaxadiol saponins (PDS) and 20(S)-protopanaxatriol saponins (PTS). It was reported that PDS and PTS might exert diverse or even antagonistic bioactivities. In this study, the probable effects of PTS and PDS on atherosclerotic development were investigated and compared in ApoE-deficient mice (ApoE−/−). Male mice were gavaged daily by PNS (200 mg/kg/d), PTS (100 mg/kg/d), or PDS (100 mg/kg/d), respectively for eight weeks. The treatments of PNS and PDS, but not PTS, showed decreased atherosclerotic lesions in the entire aorta by 45.6% and 41.3%, respectively, as evaluated by an en-face method. Both PNS and PDS can improve the plaque vulnerability, as evidenced by the increased collagen fiber, increased expression of α- smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and decreased Cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14). Additionally, PDS also inhibit the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated vascular inflammation in the aorta. In conclusion, PDS, but not PTS, might mainly contribute to the anti-atherosclerosis of P. notoginseng.
Anticancer Indole-Based Chalcones: A Structural and Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Badria Farid A. , Soliman Saied M. , Atef Saleh , Islam Mohammad Shahidul , Al-Majid Abdullah Mohammed , Dege Necmi , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Ali M. , El-Senduny Fardous F. , Barakat Assem
Published: October 2019

The crystal structures of five new chalcones derived from N-ethyl-3-acetylindole with different substituents were investigated: (E)-3-(4-bromophenyl)-1-(1-ethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (3a); (E)-3-(3-bromophenyl)-1-(1-ethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (3b); (E)-1-(1-ethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (3c); (E)-1-(1-ethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-mesitylprop-2-en-1-one (3d); and (E)-1-(1-ethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-(furan-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (3e). The molecular packing of the studied compounds is controlled mainly by C–H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds, C–H⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and π···π stacking interactions, which were quantitatively analyzed using Hirshfeld topology analysis. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the order of polarity (3b ˂ 3d ˂ 3e ˂ 3a ˂ 3c) was determined. Several chemical reactivity indices such as the ionization potential (I), electron affinity (A), chemical potential (μ), hardness (η), electrophilicity (ω) and nucleophilicity (N) indices were calculated, and these properties are discussed and compared. In addition, the antiproliferative activity of the five new chalcones was studied.
Constituents and Anti-Multidrug Resistance Activity of Taiwanofungus camphoratus on Human Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Hung Hsin-Yi , Hung Chin-Chuan , Liang Jun-Weil , Chen Chin-Fu , Chen Hung-Yi , Shieh Po-Chuen , Kuo Ping-Chung , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: October 2019

Resistance to anti-cancer drugs is one of the main factors of treatment failure resulting in high morbidity. Among the reasons of resistance, overexpression of efflux pumps leading to multidrug resistance is an important issue that needs to be solved. Taiwanofungus camphoratus has been used as a nutritional supplement to treat various cancers. However, its effects on the resistance to chemotherapeutic agents are still unknown. In this study, we report four new chemical constituents of T. camphoratus isolated from an ether extract: camphoratins K (1) and N (2) and benzocamphorins G (3) and I (4). Furthermore, we evaluated zhankuic acids A–C for their P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitory effects. The results showed that zhankuic acid A was the most potent P-gp inhibitor compound and (at 20 μM) could reverse drug resistance in human cancer cells, restoring an IC50 of 78.5 nM for doxorubicin, of 48.5 nM for paclitaxel, and of 321.5 nM for vincristine, indicating a reversal fold of 48, 38, and 45 times, respectively. This study provides support for the use of T. camphoratus in the further development of cancer therapy.
Chlojaponilactone B Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses by Suppressing TLR4-Mediated ROS Generation and NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ye Shaoxia , Zheng Qiyao , Zhou Yang , Bai Bai , Yang Depo , Zhao Zhimin
Published: October 2019

The lindenane-type sesquiterpenoid chlojaponilactone B (1), isolated from Chloranthus japonicus, has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to further explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of 1. RNA-seq analyses revealed the significant changes in the expression levels of genes related to multiple inflammatory pathways upon treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 murine macrophages with 1. Real time PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to confirm the modulations in the expression of essential molecules related to inflammatory responses. Compound 1 inhibited toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) activation upon LPS stimulation, influencing the expression of NF-κB and pro-inflammatory mediators. Molecular docking studies showed that 1 bound to TLR4 in a manner similar to that of TAK-242, a TLR4 inhibitor. Moreover, our results showed that 1 suppressed inflammatory responses by inhibiting TLR4 and subsequently decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, downregulating the NF-κB, thus reducing the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines iNOS, NO, COX-2, IL-6 and TNF-α; these effects were similar to those of TAK-242. We proposed that 1 should be considered as a potential anti-inflammatory compound in future research.
Preparation of Ganglioside GM1 by Supercritical CO2 Extraction and Immobilized Sialidase
Authors: Ji Li , Qiao Zhonghui , Zhang Xin , Cheng Xiaolei , Wang Weiyang , Zhang Fan , Zhou Yifa , Yuan Ye
Published: October 2019

Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) has good activity on brain diseases and was developed to be a drug applied in clinics for neurological disorders and nerve injury. It is difficult to isolate GM1 in industry scale from the brains directly. In this work, a simple and highly efficient method with high yield was developed for the isolation, conversion, and purification of GM1 from a pig brain. Gangliosides (GLS) were first extracted by supercritical CO2 (SCE). The optimum extraction time of GLS by SCE was 4 h, and the ratio of entrainer to acetone powder from the pig brain was 3:1 (v/w). GM1 was then prepared from GLS by immobilized sialidase and purified by reverse-phase silica gel. Sodium alginate embedding was used for the immobilization of sialidase. Under the optimized method, the yield of high-purity GM1 was around 0.056%. This method has the potential to be applied in the production of GM1 in the industry.
Co-Extraction and Co-Purification Coupled with HPLC-DAD for Simultaneous Detection of Acrylamide and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural in Thermally Processed Foods
Authors: Shi Jiaqi , Shao Zeping , Li Honglei , Zhang Yan , Wang Shuo
Published: October 2019

Acrylamide and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (5-HMF) are two of the most abundant compounds generated during thermal processing. A simple method for the simultaneous quantitation of acrylamide and 5-HMF was developed and successfully applied in thermally processed foods. Acrylamide and 5-HMF were co-extracted with methanol and then purified and enriched by an Oasis HLB solid-phase extraction cartridge, simultaneously analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and detected with a diode array detector, respectively, at their optimal wavelength. The linear concentration range was found to be 25–5000 μg/L with high linear correlation coefficients (R > 0.999). The limit of detection and the limit of quantitation for acrylamide and 5-HMF were 6.90 μg/L and 4.66 μg/L, and 20.90 μg/L and 14.12 μg/L, respectively. The recovery of acrylamide and 5-HMF in biscuits, bread, Chinese doughnuts, breakfast cereals, and milk-based baby foods was achieved at 87.72–96.70% and 85.68–96.17% with RSD at 0.78–3.35% and 0.55–2.81%, respectively. The established method presents simplicity, accuracy and good repeatability, and can be used for the rapid simultaneous quantitation of acrylamide and 5-HMF in thermally processed foods.
Natural Sesquiterpene Lactones of the 4,15-iso-Atriplicolide Type are Inhibitors of Trypanothione Reductase
Authors: Lenz Mairin , Krauth-Siegel R. Luise , Schmidt Thomas J.
Published: October 2019

In the course of our investigations on the antitrypanosomal potential of sesquiterpene lactones (STL), we have recently reported on the exceptionally strong activity of 4,15-iso-Atriplicolide tiglate, which demonstrated an IC50 value of 15 nM against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, the etiologic agent responsible for East African human trypanosomiasis (HAT). Since STLs are known to often interact with their biological targets (e.g., in anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activity) by means of the covalent modification of biological nucleophiles—most prominently free cysteine thiol groups in proteins—it was a straightforward assumption that such compounds might interfere with the trypanothione-associated detoxification system of trypanosomes. This system heavily relies on thiol groups in the form of the dithiol trypanothione (T(SH)2) and in the active centers of enzymes involved in trypanothione metabolism and homeostasis. Indeed, we found in the present study that 4,15-iso-atriplicolide tiglate, as well as its structural homologues, the corresponding methacrylate and isobutyrate, are inhibitors of trypanothione reductase (TR), the enzyme serving the parasites to keep T(SH)2 in the dithiol state. The TR inhibitory activity was demonstrated to be time-dependent and irreversible. Quite interestingly, of the several further STLs with different core structures that were also tested, none inhibited TR at a significant level. Thus, the TR inhibitory effect by the 4,15-iso-atriplicolide esters appears to be specific for this particular type of furanoheliangolide-type STL. Some structure–activity relationships can already be deduced on the basis of the data reported here, which may serve as the starting point for searching further, possibly more potent, TR inhibitors.
Aggregation State of Residual α-Helices and Their Influence on Physical Properties of S. c. ricini Native Fiber
Authors: Moseti Kelvin O. , Yoshioka Taiyo , Kameda Tsunenori , Nakazawa Yasumoto
Published: October 2019

Formation of the α-helical conformation in the poly-l-alanine (PA) sequence regions, subsequent structural transition to β-sheet during natural spinning, and presence of residual α-helices in Samia cynthia ricini (S. c. ricini) native silk fiber have been experimentally proven. However, the aggregation state of the residual α-helices, and their influence on the mechanical deformation behavior in native fiber remain unclear. Here we show that the α-helices form an ordered aggregation state with a hexagonal packing in the aqueous solution, some of which remain during natural spinning. X-ray scattering and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses revealed occurrence of a structural transition of the residual α-helices to the β-sheet structure, accompanied by disappearance of the plateau region in the force-strain curve, due to heat-treatment at ~220 °C. On the basis of X-ray scattering before and after tensile stretching of S. c. ricini native silk, a direct connection between the plateau region and the α-helix to β-sheet structural transition was confirmed. Our findings demonstrate the importance of the PA sequence regions in fiber structure formation and their influence on the tensile deformation behavior of S. c. ricini silk, features believed to be essentially similar in other saturniid silks. We strongly believe the residual ordered α-helices to be strategically and systematically designed by S. c. ricini silkworms to impart flexibility in native silk fiber. We anticipate that these knowledge forms a basis for fruitful strategies in the design and development of amino acid sequences for artificial silks with desired mechanical properties.
The Combination of Whole Cell Lipidomics Analysis and Single Cell Confocal Imaging of Fluidity and Micropolarity Provides Insight into Stress-Induced Lipid Turnover in Subcellular Organelles of Pancreatic Beta Cells
Authors: Maulucci Giuseppe , Cohen Ofir , Daniel Bareket , Ferreri Carla , Sasson Shlomo
Published: October 2019

Modern omics techniques reveal molecular structures and cellular networks of tissues and cells in unprecedented detail. Recent advances in single cell analysis have further revolutionized all disciplines in cellular and molecular biology. These methods have also been employed in current investigations on the structure and function of insulin secreting beta cells under normal and pathological conditions that lead to an impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes. Proteomic and transcriptomic analyses have pointed to significant alterations in protein expression and function in beta cells exposed to diabetes like conditions (e.g., high glucose and/or saturated fatty acids levels). These nutritional overload stressful conditions are often defined as glucolipotoxic due to the progressive damage they cause to the cells. Our recent studies on the rat insulinoma-derived INS-1E beta cell line point to differential effects of such conditions in the phospholipid bilayers in beta cells. This review focuses on confocal microscopy-based detection of these profound alterations in the plasma membrane and membranes of insulin granules and lipid droplets in single beta cells under such nutritional load conditions.
The Disturbance of Hepatic and Serous Lipids in Aristolochic Acid Ι Induced Rats for Hepatotoxicity Using Lipidomics Approach
Authors: Zhou Junyi , Yang Yifei , Wang Hongjie , Bian Baolin , Yang Jian , Wei Xiaolu , Zhou Yanyan , Si Nan , Zhao Haiyu
Published: October 2019

Aristolochic acid I (AAI) was regarded as the major toxic component of aristolochic acid (AA). In addition to aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN), liver cancers induced by AAI has aroused increasing attention recently. In this paper, the discovery of diagnostic biomarkers for AAI-induced liver injury has been studied, especially for the lipid markers. From the histopathological characteristics, the injury was observed clearly in the liver apart from the kidney after 30 mg/kg of AAΙ treatment for one week, while the lesion alleviated after AAΙ discontinuance. The serum biochemical indexes were manifested to the normal tendency after AAΙ discontinuance for two weeks. According to the evaluation of pathology slices and serum biochemical indexes, they indicated that the hepatotoxicity induced by AAΙ was reversible to some extent. A total of 44 lipid markers were identified in the liver, as well as 59 in the serum. Twenty-six common lipid markers were observed in both serum and liver. Furthermore, nine out of 26 lipids exhibited the excellent diagnostic ability to differentiate the control group from the AAΙ group and AAΙ discontinuance group with high sensitivity and specificity. The changed lipid markers might serve as characteristics to explain the mechanisms of pathogenesis and progression in hepatotoxicity induced by AAΙ.
Effect of Betaine on Reducing Body Fat—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gao Xiang , Zhang Huijun , Guo Xiao-fei , Li Kelei , Li Shan , Li Duo
Published: October 2019

Animal studies have shown the beneficial effect of betaine supplementation on reducing body fat, while the data from human studies are controversial and inconsistent. The objective of the present systematic review was to investigate the effects of betaine intervention on treating obesity in humans and quantitatively evaluate the pooled effects based on randomized controlled trials with a meta-analysis. The PubMed and Scopus databases, and the Cochrane Library, were searched up to September 2019. Weighted mean differences were calculated for net changes in obesity-related indices by using a random-effects model. Publication bias was estimated using Begg’s test. Six studies with 195 participants were identified. Betaine supplementation significantly reduced the total body fat mass (−2.53 kg; 95% CI: −3.93, −0.54 kg; I2 = 6.6%, P = 0.36) and body fat percentage (−2.44%; 95% CI: −4.20, −0.68%; I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.44). No changes were observed regarding body weight (−0.29 kg; 95% CI: −1.48, 0.89 kg; I2 = 0.00%, P = 0.99) and body mass index (−0.10 kg/m2; 95% CI: −5.13, 0.31 kg/m2; I2 = 0.00%, P = 0.84). The results suggested that dietary betaine supplementation might be an effective approach for reducing body fat.
Exploring Views of Healthcare Professionals, Researchers, and People Living with and beyond Colorectal Cancer on a Healthy-Eating and Active Lifestyle Resource
Authors: Sremanakova Jana , Jones Debra , Cooke Richard , Burden Sorrel
Published: October 2019

Background: People after bowel cancer are at high risk of cancer recurrences and co-morbidities, and therefore strategies are needed to reduce these risks. One promising strategy targets modifiable lifestyle factors including diet and physical activity. However, effective, evidence-based resources in adopting new lifestyle habits are currently lacking. Methods: The Healthy-Eating and Active Lifestyle After Bowel Cancer (HEAL ABC) resource was developed incorporating behavior change theory and World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute of Cancer Research guidelines. Focus groups and telephone interviews were conducted with professionals and survivors (age ≥18 years) to obtain feedback on the resource layout, structure, and content. Recorded data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework analysis. Results: Thirty participants evaluated the resource—19 cancer survivors and 11 professionals. Survivors’ mean age was 62 years (SD 11.5), 11 (58%) were females and 8 (42%) were male. Professionals were all females and mean age was 40 years (SD 6.06). Both survivors and professionals evaluated the resource as useful and provided suggestions for improvements. Conclusions: HEAL ABC is an evidence-based resource designed to aid cancer survivors in translating their motivation into action. It was valued positively by both survivors and healthcare professionals and viewed as filling a gap in post-treatment advice.
Heterophylly: Phenotypic Plasticity of Leaf Shape in Aquatic and Amphibious Plants
Authors: Li Gaojie , Hu Shiqi , Hou Hongwei , Kimura Seisuke
Published: October 2019

Leaves show great diversity in shape, size, and color in nature. Interestingly, many plant species have the ability to alter their leaf shape in response to their surrounding environment. This phenomenon is termed heterophylly, and is thought to be an adaptive feature to environmental heterogeneity in many cases. Heterophylly is widespread among land plants, and is especially dominant in aquatic and amphibious plants. Revealing the mechanisms underlying heterophylly would provide valuable insight into the interaction between environmental conditions and plant development. Here, we review the history and recent progress of research on heterophylly in aquatic and amphibious plants.
Exploration of Floral Volatile Organic Compounds in Six Typical Lycoris taxa by GC-MS
Authors: Shi Tingting , Yue Yuanzheng , Shi Man , Chen Min , Yang Xiulian , Wang Lianggui
Published: October 2019

Lycoris, which is known as the ‘Chinese tulip,’ has diverse flower colors and shapes, and some species have a delicate fragrance. However, limited studies have reported the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of Lycoris. In this study, headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to analyze the floral VOCs of six typical Lycoris taxa. Thirty-two VOCs were identified, including terpenoids, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, ketones, and phenols. The aldehyde and terpenoid contents in Lycoris aurea were higher than in the other taxa, and the ester and alcohol contents in L. sprengeri were the highest compared to all taxa tested. Compared with other species and cultivars, L. longituba and L. longituba var. flava were the two most scented taxa and the VOCs were dominated by terpenoids and esters. L. radiate and L. chinensis were two unscented taxa and, accordingly, the VOC content was weak. A partial least squares discriminate analysis of the floral VOCs among the six Lycoris taxa showed that the six taxa could be successfully separated. Moreover, the VOCs of L. longituba and L. longituba var. flava clustered together. β-Ocimene was verified as the most important aroma compound, as determined via the calculation of the variable importance in projection values and significance analysis. β-Ocimene and its trans isomer, trans-β-ocimene, had a high relative content in L. longituba, L. longituba var. flava, L. aurea, and L. chinensis but were not detected in L. sprengeri and L. radiata. These results indicate that floral VOCs might be selected during the evolutional processes of Lycoris, and β-ocimene could be the most typical VOC among the different Lycoris taxa.
Modeling the Thermal Conductivity Inhomogeneities of Injection-Molded Particle-Filled Composites, Caused by Segregation
Authors: Suplicz András , Semperger Orsolya Viktória , Kovács József Gábor
Published: October 2019

Many applications require new materials that have good thermal conductivity, are electrical insulators and can be processed easily and with relatively little energy. A new innovative solution for this problem is thermally conductive composites, which can replace metals in many cases. Many papers have focused on the prediction of their thermal conductivity. At the same time segregation has to be taken into account in the case of composites because it affects the distribution of thermally conductive particles, and thus local thermal conductivities. In this paper, we examined and modeled segregation during injection molding and its effect on thermal conductivity. We injection-molded samples from polypropylene with glass beads of different sizes and analyzed their filler content as a function of the flow path. We described the distribution of the filler with a mathematical model. Using this, we created a new, segregation-dependent model that describes the local thermal conductivity of polymer composites as a function of filler content with great accuracy.
Gellan Gum-Based Hydrogel for the Transdermal Delivery of Nebivolol: Optimization and Evaluation
Authors: Nair Anroop B. , Shah Jigar , Aljaeid Bader M. , Al-Dhubiab Bandar E. , Jacob Shery
Published: October 2019

Poor solubility and appreciable first-pass metabolism have limited the oral bioavailability of nebivolol. The objective of the current investigation was to design, formulate, and optimize a hydrogel-based transdermal system for nebivolol using factorial design and compare its pharmacokinetics with oral suspension. Hydrogel formulations (F1–F8) were prepared by varying the amounts of gellan gum, carbopol, and polyethylene glycol. A 23 full factorial design was used to assess the effect of independent variables such as gellan gum, carbopol, and polyethylene glycol 400 on dependent variables like viscosity, in vitro release, and ex vivo permeation after 2 h at two levels. Optimized gel (F7), containing nebivolol hydrochloride (75 mg), gellan gum (300 mg), carbopol (150 mg), polyethylene glycol 400 (20 µL), tween 80 (1 mL), ethanol (10 mL), and water (up to 30 mL) was selected and evaluated in albino rats. The physicochemical properties of F7 (pH: 7.1 ± 0.15, viscosity: 8943 ± 116 centipoise, drug content: 98.81% ± 2.16%) seem ideal for transdermal application. It was noticed that the concentration of carbopol has a more significant role than gellan gum in gel viscosity. A biphasic release pattern was exhibited by gels, and the release rate was mainly influenced by the concentration of gellan gum. Greater transdermal flux (30.86 ± 4.08 µg/cm2/h) was observed in F7 as compared with other prepared gels. Noticeable enhancement in AUC0-α value (986.52 ± 382.63 ng.h/mL; p < 0.01) of transdermal therapy (~2-fold higher compared with oral administration) established the potential of F7 to improve the rate and extent of nebivolol delivery. The overall results demonstrated here signify that F7 could be a feasible alternative to oral therapy of nebivolol.
Ultrasound-Assisted Preparation of Chitosan/Nano-Activated Carbon Composite Beads Aminated with (3-Aminopropyl)Triethoxysilane for Adsorption of Acetaminophen from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Vakili Mohammadtaghi , Amouzgar Parisa , Cagnetta Giovanni , Wang Baozhen , Guo Xiaogang , Mojiri Amin , Zeimaran Ehsan , Salamatinia Babak
Published: October 2019

A composite chitosan/nano-activated carbon (CS-NAC) aminated by (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) was prepared in the form of beads and applied for the removal of acetaminophen from aqueous solutions. NAC and APTES concentrations were optimized to obtain a suitable adsorbent structure for enhanced removal of the pharmaceutical. The aminated adsorbent (CS-NAC-APTES beads) prepared with 40% w/w NAC and 2% v/v APTES showed higher adsorption capacity (407.83 mg/g) than CS-NAC beads (278.4 mg/g). Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis demonstrated that the surface area of the CS-NAC-APTES beads was larger than that of CS-NAC beads (1.16 times). The adsorption process was well fitted by the Freundlich model (R2 > 0.95), suggesting a multilayer adsorption. The kinetic study also substantiated that the pseudo-second-order model (R2 > 0.98) was in better agreement with the experimental data. Finally, it was proved that the prepared beads can be recycled (by washing with NaOH solution) at least 5 times before detectable performance loss.
Carbon Loaded Nano-Designed Spherically High Symmetric Lithium Iron Orthosilicate Cathode Materials for Lithium Secondary Batteries
Authors: Karuppiah Diwakar , Palanisamy Rajkumar , Rengapillai Subadevi , Liu Wei-Ren , Huang Chia-Hung , Marimuthu Sivakumar
Published: October 2019

In the present study, Li2FeSiO4 (LFS) cathode material has been prepared via a modified polyol method. The stabilizing nature of polyol solvent was greatly influenced to reduce the particle size (~50 nm) and for coating the carbon on the surface of the as-mentioned materials (~10 nm). As-prepared nano-sized Li2FeSiO4 material deliver initial discharge capacity of 186 mAh·g−1 at 1C with the coulombic efficiency of 99% and sustain up to 100 cycles with only 7 mAh·g−1 is the difference of discharge capacity from its 1st cycle to 100th cycle. The rate performance illustrates the discharge capacity 280 mAh·g−1 for lower C-rate (C/20) and 95 mAh·g−1 for higher C-rate (2C).
Surrogate Modeling for Liquid–Liquid Equilibria Using a Parameterization of the Binodal Curve
Authors: Kunde Christian , Keßler Tobias , Linke Steffen , McBride Kevin , Sundmacher Kai , Kienle Achim
Published: October 2019

Computational effort and convergence problems can pose serious challenges when employing advanced thermodynamic models in process simulation and optimization. Data-based surrogate modeling helps to overcome these problems at the cost of additional modeling effort. The present work extends the range of methods for efficient data-based surrogate modeling of liquid–liquid equilibria. A new model formulation is presented that enables smaller surrogates with box-constrained input domains and reduced input dimensions. Sample data are generated efficiently by using numerical continuation. The new methods are demonstrated for the surrogate modeling and optimization of a process for the hydroformylation of 1-decene in a thermomorphic multiphase system.
Effect of Enzyme Interaction with Lignin Isolated from Pretreated Miscanthus × giganteus on Cellulolytic Efficiency
Authors: Jung Woochul , Sharma-Shivappa Ratna , Kolar Praveen
Published: October 2019

The effect of binding between the lignin isolates from an alkali (NaOH)– and an acid (H2SO4)– pretreated Miscanthus and cellulolytic enzymes in Cellic® CTec2 was investigated. Additonally, cellobiose and Avicel were enzymatically hydrolyzed with and without lignin isolates to study how enzyme binding onto lignin affects its conversion to glucose. Three carbohydrate–lignin loadings (0.5:0.25, 0.5:0.5, and 0.5:1.0% (w/v)) were employed. The results indicated that β-glucosidase (BG) had a strong tendency to bind to all lignin isolates. The overall tendency of enzyme binding onto lignin isolate was similar regardless of pretreatment chemical concentration. Though enzyme binding onto lignin isolates was observed, hydrolysis in the presence of these isolates did not have a significant (p > 0.05) impact on glucose production from cellobiose and Avicel. Cellobiose to glucose conversion of 99% was achieved via hydrolysis at both 5 and 10 FPU/g carbohydrate. Hydrolysis of Avicel with 5 and 10 FPU/g CTec2 resulted in 29.3 and 47.7% conversion to glucose, respectively.
Effect of Pipe Diameter and Inlet Parameters on Liquid CO2 Flow in Transportation by Pipeline with Large Height Difference
Authors: Lu Wei , Hu Hao , Qi Guansheng
Published: October 2019

Fire prevention and extinguishing and CO2 sequestration in coal mine gob require continuous transportation of liquid CO2 in pipelines with large height difference (from ground to underground). However, the temperature and pressure variation of liquid CO2 in pipelines with large height difference is still unclear, which hinders the design of a liquid CO2 pipeline transportation system. The influence of pipe diameter and inlet parameters (temperature and pressure) on the variation of temperature and pressure of liquid CO2 along the 1000 m vertical pipeline was studied in this paper. The study found that for each pipeline diameter considered there existed a range of flowrates where safe flow conditions could be ensured, at which no phase transition occurs throughout the length of the pipeline. When the transporting flow is larger than the maximum limit flow, phase transition occurs dramatically, which will lead to a sudden drop in temperature and pressure. When the transporting flow rate is lower than the minimum limit flow rate, phase transition of CO2 occurs slowly along the pipeline. According to the requirement of underground fire prevention and extinguishing for transporting flow rate and the economic cost of the pipeline system, the optimum diameter is 32 mm, and the corresponding safe transporting flow range is 507–13,826 kg/h. In addition, when the inlet pressure is constant, if the inlet temperature is too high, phase transition of CO2 occurs dramatically at the entrance. For a 1000 m vertical pipe with diameter of 32 mm, when the inlet pressure is 14 bar, 16 bar, 18 bar, 20 bar, 22 bar, 24 bar, the corresponding maximum allowable inlet temperatures are −30 °C, −26 °C, −23 °C, −19 °C, −16 °C and −13 °C, respectively. This research has significant guidance for safety transportation scheme of liquid CO2 from coal mine surface to underground.
Analysis of Inventory Turnover as a Performance Measure in Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Kwak Jin Kyung
Published: October 2019

Using an appropriate measure to assess firms’ performance is essential. We analyzed inventory turnover (IT) as a performance measure in manufacturing processes because IT ratios are critical in the manufacturing industry and publicly available objective measures. Using the data of 421 manufacturing companies in Korea from 2010 to 2018, we conducted an extensive analysis of the factors affecting IT by segment and its correlation with other financial ratios. Then, we compare performances between the top and bottom companies determined by Altman’s Z score approach. We found that, for the overall manufacturing industry, IT ratios were negatively correlated with gross margin and debt cost, but positively correlated with capital intensity, although the results varied by segment. Moreover, IT ratios did not show significant correlations with other financial ratios categorized for growth, profitability, stability, productivity, and value of companies. However, adjusted IT (AIT) can be a good indicator of firms’ performance in terms of financial sustainability. Results also revealed that the top 10% companies showed higher AIT ratios than the bottom 10% in most segments of the manufacturing industry. The analysis of this study can be a starting point to search for a composite index to evaluate manufacturing processes comprehensively.
The Case for a Single Channel Composite Arctic Sea Surface Temperature Algorithm
Authors: Vincent R.F.
Published: October 2019

Surface temperatures derived from satellite thermal infrared (TIR) data are critical inputs for assessing climate change in polar environments. Sea and ice surface temperature (SST, IST) are commonly determined with split window algorithms that use the brightness temperature from the 11 μm channel (BT11) as the main estimator and the difference between BT11 and the 12 μm channel (BTD11–12) to correct for atmospheric water vapor absorption. An issue with this paradigm in the Arctic maritime environment is the occurrence of high BTD11–12 that is not indicative of atmospheric absorption of BT11 energy. The Composite Arctic Sea Surface Temperature Algorithm (CASSTA) considers three regimes based on BT11 pixel value: seawater, ice, and marginal ice zones. A single channel (BT11) estimator is used for SST and a split window algorithm for IST. Marginal ice zone temperature is determined with a weighted average between the SST and IST. This study replaces the CASSTA split window IST with a single channel (BT11) estimator to reduce errors associated with BTD11–12 in the split window algorithm. The single channel IST returned improved results in the CASSTA dataset with a mean average error for ice and marginal ice zones of 0.142 K and 0.128 K, respectively.
Rapid and Accurate Monitoring of Intertidal Oyster Reef Habitat Using Unoccupied Aircraft Systems and Structure from Motion
Authors: Windle Anna , Poulin Sarah , Johnston David , Ridge Justin
Published: October 2019

Oysters support an economically important fishery in many locations in the United States and provide benefits to the surrounding environment by filtering water, providing habitat for fish, and stabilizing shorelines. Changes in oyster reef health reflect variations in factors such as recreational and commercial harvests, predation, disease, storms, and broader anthropogenic influences, such as climate change. Consistent measurements of reef area and morphology can help effectively monitor oyster habitat across locations. However, traditional approaches to acquiring these data are time-consuming and can be costly. Unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS) present a rapid and reliable method for assessing oyster habitat that may overcome these limitations, although little information on the accuracy of platforms and processing techniques is available. In the present study, oyster reefs ranging in size from 30 m2 to 300 m2 were surveyed using both fixed-wing and multirotor UAS and compared with ground-based surveys of each reef conducted with a real-time kinematic global positioning system (RTK-GPS). Survey images from UAS were processed using structure from motion (SfM) stereo photogrammetry techniques, with and without the use of ground control point (GCP) correction, to create reef-scale measures of area and morphology for comparison to ground-based measures. UAS-based estimates of both reef area and morphology were consistently lower than ground-based estimates, and the results of matched pairs analyses revealed that differences in reef area did not vary significantly by aircraft or the use of GCPs. However, the use of GCPs increased the accuracy of UAS-based reef morphology measurements, particularly in areas with the presence of water and/or homogeneous spectral characteristics. Our results indicate that both fixed-wing and multirotor UAS can be used to accurately monitor intertidal oyster reefs over time and that proper ground control techniques will improve measurements of reef morphology. These non-destructive methods help modernize oyster habitat monitoring by providing useful and accurate knowledge about the structure and health of oyster reefs ecosystems.