bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochar from Brewers’ Spent Grain: A Green and Low-Cost Smart Material to Modify Screen-Printed Electrodes
Authors: Cancelliere Rocco , Carbone Katya , Pagano Mauro , Cacciotti Ilaria , Micheli Laura
Published: December 2019

In the present study, biochar from brewers’ spent grain was used, for the first time, to develop screen-printed electrodes. After having investigated the dispersion behaviour of biochar in different organic solvents, a biochar-based screen-printed electrode was prepared with the drop-casting technique. In order to understand the electrochemical potentiality and performances of the biochar/sensor tool, different electroactive species, i.e., ferricyanide, benzoquinone, epinephrine, ascorbic, and uric acids, were used. The results were compared with those of the same electrodes that were modified with commercial graphene, confirming that the proposed electrode showed improved electrochemical behaviour in terms of resolution, peak-to-peak separation, current intensity, and resistance to charge transfer. Furthermore, a tyrosinase biosensor was developed by direct immobilisation of this enzyme on the biochar/screen printed electrode, as an example of the potential of biochar for disposable biosensor development. The efficiently occurred immobilisation of the biochar on the screen printed electrode’s (SPE’s) surface was demonstrated by the observation of the working electrode with a scanning electron microscope. The detection was performed by measuring the current due to the reduction of the corresponding quinone at low potential, equal to −0.310 V for epinephrine. The experimental conditions for the tyrosinase immobilization and the analytical parameters, such as applied potential and pH of buffer, were studied and optimized. Under these conditions, the electrochemical biosensors were characterized. A linear working range of epinephrine was obtained from 0.05 up to 0.5 mM. The detection limit was 2 × 10−4 mM for the biosensor.
Synthesis of 2-Substituted Benzo[b]furans/furo-Pyridines Catalyzed by NiCl2
Authors: Zhou Rong , Ding Yanli , Yang Mili
Published: December 2019

The first Ni-catalyzed tandem synthesis of 2-substituted benzo[b]furans/furo-pyridines from 2-halophenols and 1-alkynes was explored under Cu-free and phosphine-free conditions. The protocol was carried out with NiCl2/5-nitro-1, 10-phenanthroline in DMA (N,N-dimethylacetamide) at 120 °C. It was found to be simple, cost effective, and have a wide substrate scope. Additionally, the method is compatible with heteroaryl substrates, resulting in the formation of 2-substituted benzo[b]furans/furo-pyridines in reasonable to good yields.
Evaluation of Different Calibration Approaches for Merchantable Volume Predictions of Norway Spruce Using Nonlinear Mixed Effects Model
Authors: Adamec Zdeněk , Adolt Radim , Drápela Karel , Závodský Jiří
Published: December 2019

Research Highlights: Determination of merchantable wood volume is one of the key preconditions for sustainable forest management. This study explores accuracy of calibrated predictions of merchantable wood volume of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.) using stem taper curves (STC) in a form of a mixed model. Background and Objectives: The study is devoted to the determination of merchantable wood volume (over bark) of individual standing stems based on the integration of an STC model calibrated using upper diameter measurements. Various options of upper diameter measurement were tested and their impact on the accuracy of merchantable wood volume prediction was evaluated. Materials and Methods: To model stem taper curves, a Kozak 02 function was applied in a form of a nonlinear, mixed effects model. Accuracies of calibrated merchantable wood volume predictions obtained through remote (optical) upper diameter measurements were compared to accuracies corresponding to contact measurements by a caliper. The performance of two alternative methods used in the Czech National Forest Inventory (NFI) and forestry practice, involving diameter at breast height and total tree height as the only predictors, were also tested. The contact measurements were performed at identical stem positions after felling the respective sample tree. The calibration was done in order to account for factors inherent in particular location, and, optionally, also in a particular sample stem (within the respective location). Input data was sourced as part of a dedicated survey involving the entire territory of the Czech Republic. In total, 716 individual spruce trees were measured, felled and analysed at 169 locations. Results: In general, the best merchantable volume predictions were obtained by integrating the STC fitted (and calibrated) by minimising errors of stem cross-sectional areas instead of diameters. In terms of calibrated predictions, using single-directional, caliper measurement of upper diameter at 7 m (after felling) led to the best accuracy. In this case, the observed mean bias of merchantable volume prediction was only 0.63%, indicating underestimation. The best optical calibration strategy involved upper diameter measurements at two heights (5 and 7 m) simultaneously. Bias of this volume prediction approach was estimated at 2.1%, indicating underestimation. Conclusions: Concerning the prediction of merchantable stem volume of standing Norway spruce trees, STC calibration using two optical upper diameter measurements (at 5 and 7 m) was found to be practically applicable, provided a bias up to 3.7% can be accepted. This method was found to be more accurate than the existing national alternatives using diameter at breast height and the total tree height as the only predictors.
Red Supergiants, Yellow Hypergiants, and Post-RSG Evolution
Authors: Gordon Michael S. , Humphreys Roberta M.
Published: December 2019

How massive stars end their lives remains an open question in the field of star evolution. While the majority of stars above ≳9 M ⊙ will become red supergiants (RSGs), the terminal state of these massive stars can be heavily influenced by their mass-loss histories. Periods of enhanced circumstellar wind activity can drive stars off the RSG branch of the HR Diagram. This phase, known as post-RSG evolution, may well be tied to high mass-loss events or eruptions as seen in the Luminous Blue Variables (LBVs) and other massive stars. This article highlights some of the recent observational and modeling studies that seek to characterize this unique class of stars, the post-RSGs and link them to other massive objects on the HR Diagram such as LBVs, Yellow Hypergiants and dusty RSGs.
Penalized Variable Selection for Lipid–Environment Interactions in a Longitudinal Lipidomics Study
Authors: Zhou Fei , Ren Jie , Li Gengxin , Jiang Yu , Li Xiaoxi , Wang Weiqun , Wu Cen
Published: December 2019

Lipid species are critical components of eukaryotic membranes. They play key roles in many biological processes such as signal transduction, cell homeostasis, and energy storage. Investigations of lipid–environment interactions, in addition to the lipid and environment main effects, have important implications in understanding the lipid metabolism and related changes in phenotype. In this study, we developed a novel penalized variable selection method to identify important lipid–environment interactions in a longitudinal lipidomics study. An efficient Newton–Raphson based algorithm was proposed within the generalized estimating equation (GEE) framework. We conducted extensive simulation studies to demonstrate the superior performance of our method over alternatives, in terms of both identification accuracy and prediction performance. As weight control via dietary calorie restriction and exercise has been demonstrated to prevent cancer in a variety of studies, analysis of the high-dimensional lipid datasets collected using 60 mice from the skin cancer prevention study identified meaningful markers that provide fresh insight into the underlying mechanism of cancer preventive effects.
OsMSR3, a Small Heat Shock Protein, Confers Enhanced Tolerance to Copper Stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Cui Yanchun , Wang Manling , Yin Xuming , Xu Guoyun , Song Shufeng , Li Mingjuan , Liu Kai , Xia Xinjie
Published: December 2019

Copper is a mineral element essential for the normal growth and development of plants; however, excessive levels can severely affect plant growth and development. Oryza sativa L. multiple stress-responsive gene 3 (OsMSR3) is a small, low-molecular-weight heat shock protein (HSP) gene. A previous study has shown that OsMSR3 expression improves the tolerance of Arabidopsis to cadmium stress. However, the role of OsMSR3 in the Cu stress response of plants remains unclear, and, thus, this study aimed to elucidate this phenomenon in Arabidopsis thaliana, to further understand the role of small HSPs (sHSPs) in heavy metal resistance in plants. Under Cu stress, transgenic A. thaliana expressing OsMSR3 showed higher tolerance to Cu, longer roots, higher survival rates, biomass, and relative water content, and accumulated more Cu, abscisic acid (ABA), hydrogen peroxide, chlorophyll, carotenoid, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase than wild-type plants did. Moreover, OsMSR3 expression in A. thaliana increased the expression of antioxidant-related and ABA-responsive genes. Collectively, our findings suggest that OsMSR3 played an important role in regulating Cu tolerance in plants and improved their tolerance to Cu stress through enhanced activation of antioxidative defense mechanisms and positive regulation of ABA-responsive gene expression.
A2AR Transmembrane 2 Peptide Administration Disrupts the A2AR-A2AR Homoreceptor but Not the A2AR-D2R Heteroreceptor Complex: Lack of Actions on Rodent Cocaine Self-Administration
Authors: Borroto-Escuela Dasiel O. , Wydra Karolina , Romero-Fernandez Wilber , Zhou Zilong , Frankowska Malgorzata , Filip Malgorzata , Fuxe Kjell
Published: December 2019

It was previously demonstrated that rat adenosine A2AR transmembrane V peptide administration into the nucleus accumbens enhances cocaine self-administration through disruption of the A2AR-dopamine (D2R) heteroreceptor complex of this region. Unlike human A2AR transmembrane 4 (TM4) and 5 (TM5), A2AR TM2 did not interfere with the formation of the A2AR-D2R heteroreceptor complex in cellular models using BRET1 assay. A2AR TM2 was proposed to be part of the of the receptor interface of the A2AR homomer instead and was therefore tested in the current article for effects on rat cocaine self-administration using rat A2AR synthetic TM2 peptide bilaterally injected into the nucleus accumbens. The injected A2AR TM2 peptide failed to significantly counteract the inhibitory action of the A2AR agonist CGS 21680 (0.1 mg/Kg) on cocaine self-administration. In line with these results, the microinjected A2AR TM2 peptide did not reduce the number of proximity ligation assay blobs identifying A2AR-D2R heteroreceptor complexes in the nucleus accumbens. In contrast, the A2AR TM2 peptide significantly reduced the number of A2AR-A2AR homoreceptor complexes in the nucleus accumbens. As to effects on the receptor–receptor interactions in the A2AR-D2R heteroreceptor complexes, the A2AR TM2 peptide did not alter the significant increase in the D2R Ki, high values produced by the A2AR agonist CGS 21680 ex vivo in the ventral striatum. The results indicate that the accumbal A2AR-A2AR homomeric complexes are not involved in mediating the A2AR agonist-induced inhibition of cocaine self-administration.
Homologous Recombination under the Single-Molecule Fluorescence Microscope
Authors: Gibbs Dalton R. , Dhakal Soma
Published: December 2019

Homologous recombination (HR) is a complex biological process and is central to meiosis and for repair of DNA double-strand breaks. Although the HR process has been the subject of intensive study for more than three decades, the complex protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions during HR present a significant challenge for determining the molecular mechanism(s) of the process. This knowledge gap is largely because of the dynamic interactions between HR proteins and DNA which is difficult to capture by routine biochemical or structural biology methods. In recent years, single-molecule fluorescence microscopy has been a popular method in the field of HR to visualize these complex and dynamic interactions at high spatiotemporal resolution, revealing mechanistic insights of the process. In this review, we describe recent efforts that employ single-molecule fluorescence microscopy to investigate protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions operating on three key DNA-substrates: single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), and four-way DNA called Holliday junction (HJ). We also outline the technological advances and several key insights revealed by these studies in terms of protein assembly on these DNA substrates and highlight the foreseeable promise of single-molecule fluorescence microscopy in advancing our understanding of homologous recombination.
Construction of a Robust Cofactor Self-Sufficient Bienzyme Biocatalytic System for Dye Decolorization and its Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Ding Haitao , Luo Wei , Yu Yong , Chen Bo
Published: December 2019

A triphenylmethane reductase derived from Citrobacter sp. KCTC 18061P was coupled with a glucose 1-dehydrogenase from Bacillus sp. ZJ to construct a cofactor self-sufficient bienzyme biocatalytic system for dye decolorization. Fed-batch experiments showed that the system is robust to maintain its activity after 15 cycles without the addition of any expensive exogenous NADH. Subsequently, three different machine learning approaches, including multiple linear regression (MLR), random forest (RF), and artificial neural network (ANN), were employed to explore the response of decolorization efficiency to the variables of the bienzyme system. Statistical parameters of these models suggested that a three-layered ANN model with six hidden neurons was capable of predicting the dye decolorization efficiency with the best accuracy, compared with the models constructed by MLR and RF. Weights analysis of the ANN model showed that the ratio between two enzymes appeared to be the most influential factor, with a relative importance of 54.99% during the decolorization process. The modeling results confirmed that the neural networks could effectively reproduce experimental data and predict the behavior of the decolorization process, especially for complex systems containing multienzymes.
Identification of B Cell Epitopes of Blo t 13 Allergen and Cross-Reactivity with Human Adipocytes and Heart Fatty Acid Binding Proteins
Authors: Múnera Marlon , Martínez Dalgys , Labrada Alexis , Caraballo Luis , Puerta Leonardo
Published: December 2019

Cross-reactivity between allergens and human proteins could have a clinical impact in allergic diseases. Blo t 13 is an allergen from the mite Blomia tropicalis, which belongs to the fatty acid binding protein (FABP) family and has structural homology with human FABPs. This work aimed to map B cell epitopes on Blo t 13 and to identify epitopes involved in cross-reactivity with human heart FABP (FABP3) and adipocyte FABP (FABP4). Sera from 25 patients with house dust mite (HDM) allergy that were sensitized to Blo t 13 were used for testing the reactivity of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgG to FABP. The epitope mapping of Blo t 13 was performed using overlapping peptides, and cross-reactivity between Blo t 13 and human FABP was analyzed using human sera and anti-Blo t 13 monoclonal antibodies. IgE antibodies to all FABPs were detected in 14/25 serum samples, and IgG was detected in 25/25 serum samples. The cross-reactivity of Blo t 13 was 42% with FABP3 and 48% with FABP4. Two IgE-binding regions were identified in Blo t 13; one between residues 54 and 72 (the main cross-reacting region) and another between residues 111 to 129. Our results suggest that exposure to the Blo t 13 allergen could induce an auto-reactive response to endogenous FABP in allergic patients sensitized to Blo t 13.
The Effect of Elevated Temperature on the Drawability of a Circular Deep Drawn Metal Cup
Authors: Basril M. A. M. , Azuddin M. , Choudhury I. A.
Published: December 2019

Product quality is one of the important aspects in deep drawing practice and the variation in process temperature was claimed to improve the quality. Therefore, in this research, the effect of the heating temperature on the drawability of a circular metal cup has been investigated. Firstly, circular metal cups of aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel were drawn from the blank diameters of 60 mm, 65 mm, and 70 mm. The experiment was conducted at room temperature followed by at 100 °C, 150 °C and 200 °C. The Taguchi method was selected as the design of experiment approach, and L9 (34) array design methodology was adopted in this experimental research. The drawability was measured based on the punching force needed to deform the sheet metal blanks. The deep drawing process was conducted at room, and elevated temperature conditions and the response factor was analysed and compared through the analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical approach. The results obtained from ANOVA indicate that the blank material has a significant influence on the deep drawing process followed by the blank size, heating temperature and heating technique. The optimal parameter combinations are blank diameter of 60 mm, heating temperature of 200 °C and the die and punch heating technique. Out of the three materials investigated, aluminium has a better drawability compared to mild steel and stainless steel.
Investigation of Filling Phase Percentages on the Performance of WC-Cu Based Hot-Pressing Diamond Bit Matrices
Authors: Tan Songcheng , Li Changping , Fang Xiaohong , Shi Hengchao , Duan Longchen , Li Chenglong
Published: December 2019

WC-Cu based hot-pressing diamond bit has been widely applied in all-hydraulic geological exploration, as well as deep and ultra-deep well drilling in the oil and gas industry. However, the effect laws and mechanisms of Cu and WC on the metal matrix composite need further study. Therefore, six WC-Cu based metal matrices were designed, and a series of samples with different dimensions were fabricated to conduct some specific physical and mechanical tests, namely, tests of relative density, Rockwell hardness, bending strength, impact toughness and abrasion weight loss. Additionally, the microstructure and diamond retention conditions of the WC-Cu based samples after bending strength test, as well as their wear morphologies after the pin-on-disc wear test, were analyzed by scanning electron microscope. Test results indicate that most of the physical and mechanical properties were improved with the increase of 663-Cu at first, and then monotonously declined. The increase of 663-Cu also shows an important influence on the samples’ microstructure, diamond retention capacity and wear mechanism.
Asymmetrical Split-and-Recombine Micromixer with Baffles
Authors: Raza Wasim , Kim Kwang-Yong
Published: December 2019

The present work proposes a planar micromixer design comprising hybrid mixing modules of split-and-recombine units and curved channels with radial baffles. The mixing performance was evaluated numerically by solving the continuity and momentum equations along with the advection-diffusion equation in a Reynolds number range of 0.1–80. The variance of the concentration of the mixed species was considered to quantify the mixing index. The micromixer showed far better mixing performance over whole Reynolds number range than an earlier split-and-recombine micromixer. The mixer achieved mixing indices greater than 90% at Re ≥ 20 and a mixing index of 99.8% at Re = 80. The response of the mixing quality to the change of three geometrical parameters was also studied. A mixing index over 80% was achieved within 63% of the full length at Re = 20.
Luminescence of Agrellite Specimen from the Kipawa River Locality
Authors: Czaja Maria , Lisiecki Radosław
Published: December 2019

Using steady-state luminescence measurements, the luminescence spectra of Ce3+, Pr3+, Nd3+, Sm3+, Eu3+, Dy3+, Er3+ and Yb3+ for the agrellite sample from the Kipawa River region have been measured. The emission spectra of Eu3+ and Dy3+ next to those of Sm3+ and Pr3+ have been measured for characteristic excitation conditions. The most efficient luminescence activator in the studied sample was Ce3+. This ion was also a sensitizer of Pr3+, Sm3+, Eu3+, and Dy3+ luminescence.
Forty Years Since the Structural Elucidation of Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF): Historical, Current, and Future Research Perspectives
Authors: Lordan Ronan , Tsoupras Alexandros , Zabetakis Ioannis , Demopoulos Constantinos A.
Published: December 2019

In the late 1960s, Barbaro and Zvaifler described a substance that caused antigen induced histamine release from rabbit platelets producing antibodies in passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. Henson described a ‘soluble factor’ released from leukocytes that induced vasoactive amine release in platelets. Later observations by Siraganuan and Osler observed the existence of a diluted substance that had the capacity to cause platelet activation. In 1972, the term platelet-activating factor (PAF) was coined by Benveniste, Henson, and Cochrane. The structure of PAF was later elucidated by Demopoulos, Pinckard, and Hanahan in 1979. These studies introduced the research world to PAF, which is now recognised as a potent phospholipid mediator. Since its introduction to the literature, research on PAF has grown due to interest in its vital cell signalling functions and more sinisterly its role as a pro-inflammatory molecule in several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease and cancer. As it is forty years since the structural elucidation of PAF, the aim of this review is to provide a historical account of the discovery of PAF and to provide a general overview of current and future perspectives on PAF research in physiology and pathophysiology.
7-epi-Clusianone, a Multi-Targeting Natural Product with Potential Chemotherapeutic, Immune-Modulating, and Anti-Angiogenic Properties
Authors: Taylor Wesley F. , Yanez Maria , Moghadam Sara E. , Moridi Farimani Mahdi , Soroury Sara , Ebrahimi Samad N. , Tabefam Marzieh , Jabbarzadeh Ehsan
Published: December 2019

Targeted therapies have changed the treatment of cancer, giving new hope to many patients in recent years. The shortcomings of targeted therapies including acquired resistance, limited susceptible patients, high cost, and high toxicities, have led to the necessity of combining these therapies with other targeted or chemotherapeutic treatments. Natural products are uniquely capable of synergizing with targeted and non-targeted anticancer regimens due to their ability to affect multiple cellular pathways simultaneously. Compounds which provide an additive effect to the often combined immune therapies and cytotoxic chemotherapies, are exceedingly rare. These compounds would however provide a strengthening bridge between the two treatment modalities, increasing their effectiveness and improving patient prognoses. In this study, 7-epi-clusianone was investigated for its anticancer properties. While previous studies have suggested clusianone and its conformational isomers, including 7-epi-clusianone, are chemotherapeutic, few cancer types have been demonstrated to exhibit sensitivity to these compounds and little is known about the mechanism. In this study, 7-epi-clusianone was shown to inhibit the growth of 60 cancer cell types and induce significant cell death in 25 cancer cell lines, while simultaneously modulating the immune system, inhibiting angiogenesis, and inhibiting cancer cell invasion, making it a promising lead compound for cancer drug discovery.
Anti-Infective and Anti-Cancer Properties of the Annona Species: Their Ethnomedicinal Uses, Alkaloid Diversity, and Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Nugraha Ari Satia , Damayanti Yuvita Dian , Wangchuk Phurpa , Keller Paul A.
Published: December 2019

Annona species have been a valuable source of anti-infective and anticancer agents. However, only limited evaluations of their alkaloids have been carried out. This review collates and evaluates the biological data from extracts and purified isolates for their anti-infective and anti-cancer activities. An isoquinoline backbone is a major structural alkaloid moiety of the Annona genus, and more than 83 alkaloids have been isolated from this genus alone. Crude extracts of Annona genus are reported with moderate activities against Plasmodium falciparum showing larvicidal activities. However, no pure compounds from the Annona genus were tested against the parasite. The methanol extract of Annona muricata showed apparent antimicrobial activities. The isolated alkaloids from this genus including liriodenine, anonaine, asimilobine showed sensitivity against Staphylococcus epidermidis. Other alkaloids such as (+)-Xylopine and isocoreximine indicated significant anti-cancer activity against A549 and K-562 cell lines, respectively. This review revealed that the alkaloids from Annona genus are rich in structural diversity and pharmacological activities. Further exploration of this genus and their alkaloids has potential for developing novel anti-infective and anticancer drugs.
Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for DNA Biosensors—How Far Are We?
Authors: Pyrak Edyta , Krajczewski Jan , Kowalik Artur , Kudelski Andrzej , Jaworska Aleksandra
Published: December 2019

A sensitive and accurate identification of specific DNA fragments (usually containing a mutation) can influence clinical decisions. Standard methods routinely used for this type of detection are PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction, and its modifications), and, less commonly, NGS (Next Generation Sequencing). However, these methods are quite complicated, requiring time-consuming, multi-stage sample preparation, and specially trained staff. Usually, it takes weeks for patients to obtain their results. Therefore, different DNA sensors are being intensively developed by many groups. One technique often used to obtain an analytical signal from DNA sensors is Raman spectroscopy. Its modification, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), is especially useful for practical analytical applications due to its extra low limit of detection. SERS takes advantage of the strong increase in the efficiency of Raman signal generation caused by a local electric field enhancement near plasmonic (typically gold and silver) nanostructures. In this condensed review, we describe the most important types of SERS-based nanosensors for genetic studies and comment on their potential for becoming diagnostic tools.
Graphene Oxide-Based Biosensors for Liquid Biopsies in Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Chen Shiue-Luen , Chen Chong-You , Hsieh Jason Chia-Hsun , Yu Zih-Yu , Cheng Sheng-Jen , Hsieh Kuan Yu , Yang Jia-Wei , Kumar Priyank V , Lin Shien-Fong , Chen Guan-Yu
Published: December 2019

Liquid biopsies use blood or urine as test samples, which are able to be continuously collected in a non-invasive manner. The analysis of cancer-related biomarkers such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), microRNA, and exosomes provides important information in early cancer diagnosis, tumor metastasis detection, and postoperative recurrence monitoring assist with clinical diagnosis. However, low concentrations of some tumor markers, such as CTCs, ctDNA, and microRNA, in the blood limit its applications in clinical detection and analysis. Nanomaterials based on graphene oxide have good physicochemical properties and are now widely used in biomedical detection technologies. These materials have properties including good hydrophilicity, mechanical flexibility, electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, and optical performance. Moreover, utilizing graphene oxide as a biosensor interface has effectively improved the sensitivity and specificity of biosensors for cancer detection. In this review, we discuss various cancer detection technologies regarding graphene oxide and discuss the prospects and challenges of this technology.
Ductile Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses by Controlling Heterogeneous Microstructure from Phase Competition Strategy
Authors: Cheng J. L. , Wang J. J. , Rui J. X. , Yun Y. L. , Zhao W. , Li F.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we prepare the alloys of Zr41.2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5, Zr44.4Ti14.8Cu14.3Ni11.5Be15, and Zr38Ti12.7Cu9.6Ni7.7Be32 to show the effects of alloy composition on the inhomogeneity structures and mechanical properties of Zr-based bulk metallic glasses (BMGs). Compared with the best glass former Zr41.2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5, some nanoscale inhomogeneity structures can be induced by shifting the compositions towards a primary phase in the alloys of Zr44.4Ti14.8Cu14.3Ni11.5Be15 and Zr38Ti12.7Cu9.6Ni7.7Be32. The room temperature compression tests reveal that theBMGs contained nanoscale inhomogeneity structures exhibit superior mechanical properties with the high strength of 1780 MPa and especially a remarkable plastic strain of over 9%. These findings provide a new perspective to enhance the ductility of BMGs by introducing nanoscale inhomogeneity structures based on the phase competition strategy.
Protective Efficacy of a Dietary Supplement Based on Forskolin, Homotaurine, Spearmint Extract, and Group B Vitamins in a Mouse Model of Optic Nerve Injury
Authors: Locri Filippo , Cammalleri Maurizio , Dal Monte Massimo , Rusciano Dario , Bagnoli Paola
Published: December 2019

Glaucoma is a multifactorial blinding disease with a major inflammatory component ultimately leading to apoptotic retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death. Pharmacological treatments lowering intraocular pressure can help slow or prevent vision loss although the damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Recently, nutritional approaches have been evaluated for their efficacy in preventing degenerative events in the retina although mechanisms underlying their effectiveness remain to be elucidated. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of a diet supplement consisting of forskolin, homotaurine, spearmint extract, and vitamins of the B group in counteracting retinal dysfunction in a mouse model of optic nerve crush (ONC) used as an in vivo model of glaucoma. After demonstrating that ONC did not affect retinal vasculature by fluorescein angiography, we determined the effect of the diet supplement on the photopic negative response (PhNR) whose amplitude is strictly related to RGC integrity and is therefore drastically reduced in concomitance with RGC death. We found that the diet supplementation prevents the reduction of PhNR amplitude (p < 0.001) and concomitantly counteracts RGC death, as in supplemented mice, RGC number assessed immunohistochemically is significantly higher than that in non-supplemented animals (p < 0.01). Major determinants of the protective efficacy of the compound are due to a reduction of ONC-associated cytokine secretion leading to decreased levels of apoptotic markers that in supplemented mice are significantly lower than in non-supplemented animals (p < 0.001), ultimately causing RGC survival and ameliorated visual dysfunction. Overall, our data suggest that the above association of compounds plays a neuroprotective role in this mouse model of glaucoma thus offering a new perspective in inflammation-associated neurodegenerative diseases of the inner retina.
Butter, Margarine, Vegetable Oils, and Olive Oil in the Average Polish Diet
Authors: Górska-Warsewicz Hanna , Rejman Krystyna , Laskowski Wacław , Czeczotko Maksymilian
Published: December 2019

The main aim of this study was to identify the sources of energy and 25 nutrients in fats and oils in the average Polish diet. We analyzed energy, total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), cholesterol, protein, carbohydrates, nine minerals, and nine vitamins. We included five sub-groups: butter, vegetable oils, margarine and other hydrogenated vegetable fats, olive oil, and other animal fats. The basis for our analysis was data from the 2016 household budget survey, conducted on a representative sample of the Polish population (36,886 households, n = 99,230). We used the cluster analysis to assess the impact of socio-demographic and economic factors on the volume of fats and oil consumption and on the share of particular products in the supply of energy and nutrients. Our findings indicated that fats and oils contributed 32.9% of the total fat supply, which placed these products in first position among main food groups. Meat and its products ranked second (30.8%) in the total fat supply, while milk and dairy products, including cream (13.4%), were the third food group. The second position in the total fat supply was taken by meat and its products (30.8%), and the third place was taken by milk and dairy products, including cream (13.4%). The supply of fatty acids from fats and oils varied and ranged from 45.6% for PUFA to 31.5% for MUFA to 27.8% for SFA. The supply of cholesterol was at the level of 8.3%. Our research has proven that fats and oils are an important source of vitamin E, providing almost half of the daily supply of this vitamin to the average Polish diet. The supply of vitamin A and D equaled 16–18% of their total daily intake. In the cluster analysis, we identified five clusters that differed in the consumption of butter, oils, margarine and other vegetable fats, olive oil, and other animal fats. The variables with most differentiating clusters were: education level, income (in quintile groups of households), degree of urbanization of the place of household residence, and socio-economic type of the household. Our results indicate a high share of fats and oils in the total fat supply and should be used to evaluate the diets from a nutritional and health point of view.
The Role of Vitamin D and Omega-3 PUFAs in Islet Transplantation
Authors: Infante Marco , Ricordi Camillo , Padilla Nathalia , Alvarez Ana , Linetsky Elina , Lanzoni Giacomo , Mattina Alessandro , Bertuzzi Federico , Fabbri Andrea , Baidal David , Alejandro Rodolfo
Published: December 2019

Recurrence of autoimmunity and allograft rejection represent major challenges that impact the success of islet transplantation. Despite the remarkable improvements achieved in immunosuppression strategies after the publication of the Edmonton protocol, long-term data of intra-hepatic islet transplantation show a gradual decline in beta-cell function. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the investigation of novel, safe and effective anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory strategies able to promote long-term islet graft survival and notable improvements in clinical outcomes of islet transplant recipients. Vitamin D has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Pre-clinical studies investigating the use of vitamin D and its analogs (alone or in combination with immunosuppressive agents and/or other anti-inflammatory agents, such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) showed beneficial results in terms of islet graft survival and prevention of recurrence of autoimmunity/allograft rejection in animal models of syngeneic and allogeneic islet transplantation. Moreover, epidemiologic studies demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent after solid organ transplantation (e.g., heart, liver or kidney transplantation). However, studies that critically assess the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among islet transplant recipients have yet to be conducted. In addition, prospective studies aimed to address the safety and efficacy of vitamin D supplementation as an adjuvant immunomodulatory strategy in islet transplant recipients are lacking and are therefore awaited in the future.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Probiotic Species on Iron Absorption and Iron Status
Authors: Vonderheid Susan C. , Tussing-Humphreys Lisa , Park Chang , Pauls Heather , OjiNjideka Hemphill Nefertiti , LaBomascus Bazil , McLeod Andrew , Koenig Mary Dawn
Published: December 2019

Background: Strategies to prevent iron deficiency anemia (IDA) have varying effectiveness. The purpose of this systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of probiotics on iron absorption and iron status-related markers in humans. Methods: We followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Relevant articles were identified from Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, and CINAHL from inception to February, 2019. We conducted a meta-analysis for eight studies examining the effect of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (Lp299v) on iron absorption. Results: Fifteen studies reported in 12 articles were identified (N = 950). Our meta-analysis of eight studies using a random-effects model demonstrated a significant increase in iron absorption following administration of the probiotic Lp299v with a pooled standardized mean difference (an average intervention effect size) of 0.55 (95% CI 0.22–0.88, p = 0.001). Of the seven randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized clinical trials examining a range of probiotic species on iron status, only one study supplementing with Lp299v showed improvement in serum iron; no other studies reported improvement in iron status-related indices with probiotic treatment. Conclusions: Lp299v significantly improved iron absorption in humans. Future research should include the assessment of Lp299v effect on iron absorption and iron status in populations at high risk of IDA, including pregnant women.
The Secrets of the Mediterranean Diet. Does [Only] Olive Oil Matter?
Authors: Mazzocchi Alessandra , Leone Ludovica , Agostoni Carlo , Pali-Schöll Isabella
Published: December 2019

Diet plays a key role in the maintenance and optimal functioning of immune cells. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is an example of a prudent choice of lifestyle and scientifically accepted to help preserve human health by protecting against major chronic and inflammatory diseases. Mediterranean diets (MedDiets) are characteristically high in the consumption of fruits, vegetables and salad, bread and whole grain cereals, potatoes, legumes/beans, nuts, and seeds. Their common central feature is the usage of olive oil as the main source of fat. The health benefits attributed to olive oil are specifically related to extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) intake with its high nutritional quality and multiple positive effects on health. Overall, MedDiets have direct (mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), tocopherols, polyphenols) and indirect (low saturated fats, well-balanced linoleic/alpha linolenic acid) effects on the immune system and inflammatory responses. In the present paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the effect of olive oil per se and MedDiets generally on immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases, such as coronary heart disease (CHD)/cardiovascular diseases (CVD), obesity, type-2 diabetes, cancer, asthma, and allergies.
Aqueous Partition of Methanolic Extract of Dicranopteris linearis Leaves Protects against Liver Damage Induced by Paracetamol
Authors: Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin , Kamisan Farah Hidayah , Mohd. Nasir Nurliana , Teh Lay Kek , Salleh Mohd. Zaki
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to determine the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of semi-purified aqueous partition obtained from the methanol extract of Dicranopteris linearis (AQDL) leaves against paracetamol (PCM)-induced liver intoxication in rats. The test solutions, AQDL (50, 250, and 500 mg/kg), were administered orally to rats (n = 6) once daily for seven consecutive days followed by the hepatotoxicity induction using 3 g/kg PCM (p.o.). Blood was collected for serum biochemical parameters analysis while the liver was collected for histopathological examination and endogenous antioxidant enzymes analysis. AQDL was also subjected to antioxidant determination and phytochemical analysis. Results obtained show that AQDL possessed high total phenolic content (TPC) value and remarkable radical scavenging activities. AQDL also significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the liver weight/body weight (LW/BW) ratio or serum level of ALT, AST, and total bilirubin while significantly (p < 0.05) increase the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) without affecting the malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver indicating its hepatoprotective effect. Phytoconstituents analyses showed only the presence of saponins and triterpenes, but lack of flavonoids. In conclusion, AQDL exerts hepatoprotective activity via its high antioxidant potential and ability to modulate the endogenous enzymatic antioxidant defense system possibly via the synergistic action of saponins and triterpenes.
Bolalipid-Doped Liposomes: Can Bolalipids Increase the Integrity of Liposomes Exposed to Gastrointestinal Fluids?
Authors: Müller Sindy , Gruhle Kai , Meister Annette , Hause Gerd , Drescher Simon
Published: December 2019

The use of archaeal lipids and their artificial analogues, also known as bolalipids, represents a promising approach for the stabilization of classical lipid vesicles for oral application. In a previous study, we investigated the mixing behavior of three single-chain alkyl-branched bolalipids PC-C32(1,32Cn)-PC (n = 3, 6, 9) with either saturated or unsaturated phosphatidyl-cholines. We proved, that the bolalipids PC-C32(1,32C6)-PC and PC-C32(1,32C9)-PC show miscibility with 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) and 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC). In the present work, we extended our vesicle system to natural lipid mixtures using phosphatidylcholine from soy beans, and we investigated the effect of incorporated bolalipids on the integrity of these mixed liposomes (bolasomes) in different gastrointestinal fluids using a dithionite assay and a calcein release assay in combination with particle size measurements. Finally, we also studied the retention of calcein within the bolasomes during freeze-drying. As a main result, we could show that in particular PC-C32(1,32C6)-PC is able to increase the stability of bolasomes in simulated gastric fluid—a prerequisite for the further use of liposomes as oral drug delivery vehicles.
Recombinant Human Dentin Matrix Protein 1 (hDMP1) Expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana Potentially Induces Osteogenic Differentiation
Authors: Ahmad Aktsar Roskiana , Kaewpungsup Pornjira , Khorattanakulchai Narach , Rattanapisit Kaewta , Pavasant Prasit , Phoolcharoen Waranyoo
Published: December 2019

Inductive molecules are critical components for successful bone tissue engineering. Dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP1), a non-collagenous protein in the bone matrix, has been shown to play roles in osteogenic differentiation and phosphate homeostasis. This study aimed to produce recombinant human dentin matrix protein-1 (hDMP1) in Nicotiana benthamiana and investigated the ability of this plant-produced DMP1 to induce osteogenesis in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). The hDMP1 gene was cloned into the geminiviral vector for transient expression in N. benthamiana. We found that hDMP1 was transiently expressed in N. benthamiana leaves and could be purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation followed by nickel affinity chromatography. The effects of hDMP1 on the induction of cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation were investigated. The results indicated that plant-produced hDMP1 could induce the cell proliferation of hPDLSCs and increase the expression levels of osteogenic genes, including osterix (OSX), type I collagen (COL1), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP2), and Wnt3a. Moreover, the plant-produced hDMP1 promoted calcium deposition in hPDLSCs as determined by alizarin red S staining. In conclusion, our results indicated that plant-produced hDMP1 could induce osteogenic differentiation in hPDLSCs and could potentially be used as a bone inducer in bone tissue engineering.
Gallic Acid and Quercetin as Intelligent and Active Ingredients in Poly(vinyl alcohol) Films for Food Packaging
Authors: Luzi Francesca , Pannucci Elisa , Santi Luca , Kenny José Maria , Torre Luigi , Bernini Roberta , Puglia Debora
Published: December 2019

Gallic acid (GA) and quercetin (QC) were used as active ingredients in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) film formulations obtained by solvent casting process. The effect of two different percentages (5 and 10 % wt.) on morphological behavior, thermal stability, optical, mechanical, and release properties of PVA were investigated, while migration with food stimulants and antioxidant properties were tested taking into account the final application as food packaging systems. The results showed how different dispersability in PVA water solutions gave different results in term of deformability (mean value of ε PVA/5GA = 280% and ε PVA/5QC = 255%, with 190% for neat PVA), comparable values for antioxidant activity at the high contents (Radical Scavenging Activity, RSA(%) PVA/10GA = 95 and RSA(%) PVA/10QC = 91) and different coloring attitude of the polymeric films. It was proved that GA, even if it represents the best antioxidant ingredient to be used with PVA and can be easily dispersed in water, it gives more rigid films in comparison to QC, that indeed was more efficient in tuning the deformability of the PVA films, due the presence of sole hydroxyl groups carrying agent. The deviation of the film coloring towards greenish tones for GA films and redness for QC films after 7 and within 21 days in the simulated conditions confirmed the possibility of using easy processable PVA films as active and intelligent films in food packaging.
Synthetic Aperture Radar Remote Sensing of Operational Platform Produced Water Releases
Authors: Skrunes Stine , Johansson A. Malin , Brekke Camilla
Published: December 2019

Oil spill detection services based on satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) frequently detect oil slicks close to platforms due to legal releases of produced water. Separating these slicks from larger releases, e.g., due to accidental leakage is challenging. The aim of this work is to investigate the SAR characteristics of produced water, including the typical appearance in HH/VV data, possible variations with oil volume, and limitations on detectability. The study is based on dual-polarization TerraSAR-X data collected with constant imaging geometry over one platform in the North Sea. Despite the low oil content (volume percentage of 0.001%–0.002% in this data set), produced water is clearly detectable, with median damping ratios around 3–9 dB. Produced water is detected here in wind speeds of 2–12 m/s, with reduced detectability above ca 9 m/s. Hourly average release volumes with an oil component as low as 0.003 m 3 are detected. The damping ratio, polarization difference, and co-polarization power ratio are investigated and show no clear correlation with released oil volume. However, some indications of trends such as increasing signal damping with oil volume should be further investigated when data over larger release volumes are available. When comparing the properties of the entire slick with the most recently released part, similar or slightly higher damping ratios were found in the full slick case.
Polymeric Transducers: An Inkjet Printed B-Field Sensor with Resistive Readout Strategy
Authors: Andò Bruno , Baglio Salvatore , Crispino Ruben , Marletta Vincenzo
Published: December 2019

Magnetic field sensors are successfully used in numerous application contexts such as position sensing, speed detection, current detection, contactless switches, vehicle detection, and electronic compasses. In this paper, an inkjet printed magnetic sensor, based on the magneto-mechanical sensing principle, is presented together with a physical model describing its physical behavior and experimental results. The main novelties of the proposed solution consist of its low cost, rapid prototyping (printing and drying time), disposability, and in the use of a commercial low-cost printer. A measurement survey has been carried out by investigating magnetic fields belonging to the range 0–27 mT and for different values of the excitation current forced in the actuation coil. Experimental results demonstrate the suitability of both the proposed sensing strategy and model developed. In particular, in the case of an excitation current of 100 mA, the device responsivity and resolution are 3700 µε/T and 0.458 mT, respectively.