bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Movement and Deposition of Particles in Supercritical Water Natural Circulation Based on Grey Correlation Theory
Authors: Zhu Liangyu , Zhou Tao , Ding Xijia , Qin Xuemeng , Zhang Jialei
Published: June 2019

The movement and deposition of particles that occur during their natural circulation in supercritical water exercise an important impact on the safe and stable operation of a supercritical water reactor (SCWR). When supercritical water flows in pipelines, a large number of corrosive particles may be generated due to pipeline corrosion or the purity of the fluid itself. The presence of particulate matter affects the heat transfer efficiency of the pipeline, increasing flow resistance and easily promoting heat transfer deterioration. ANSYS-CFX numerical analysis software was used to simulate the natural circulation loop of supercritical water, and micron particles were added in the initial flow field. The effects of heating power, particle concentration and particle diameter on particle deposition were obtained. Through this analysis, it can be concluded that the heating of the pipeline has a certain inhibitory effect on the deposition of particles. The rise in both initial particle concentration and particle diameter serve to reinforce the deposition of particles in the heating section. Depending on the degree of influence, the contributory parameters to particle deposition include particle diameter, particle concentration and heating power in turn.
LCpL Filter Design and Control for Stability Improvement in a Stand-Alone Microgrid with Sub Inverter Structure
Authors: Jung Sang-Min , Choi Ki-Young , Jung Sang-Hyuk , Kim Rae-Young
Published: June 2019

The inverter of an energy storage system, which plays an important role in maintaining the voltage of a stand-alone microgrid, can shut down in response to external or internal abnormal conditions. Such a protective measure can cause the microgrid to blackout. A redundant inverter can be configured to respond upon failure of the main inverter to ensure higher stability of the stand-alone microgrid. However, the microgrid may experience several to tens of blackout cycles when the main inverter fails owing to a time delay in the operation of the sub inverter. To overcome this limitation, we propose an LCpL filter for suppressing any sudden changes in the microgrid during the transition period between the main and sub inverters. In addition, this study also describes a control method for the sub inverter to prevent system blackouts. A 100 kW microgrid system consisting of two 100 kW inverters with LCpL filters and loads was used to demonstrate the efficacy/utility of the proposed method.
First Calibration and Application of Leaf Wax n-Alkane Biomarkers in Loess-Paleosol Sequences and Modern Plants and Soils in Armenia
Authors: Trigui Yesmine , Wolf Daniel , Sahakyan Lilit , Hovakimyan Hayk , Sahakyan Kristina , Zech Roland , Fuchs Markus , Wolpert Tilmann , Zech Michael , Faust Dominik
Published: June 2019

Interpreting paleoenvironmental conditions by means of n-alkane biomarker analyses is challenging because results depend on different influencing factors. Thus, regional calibration of n-alkane patterns is needed because of different plant chemo-taxonomic behavior. We investigated for the first-time leaf wax-derived n-alkane biomarkers from modern plants, litter, top soils, and two recently discovered loess-paleosol sequences (LPSs) in Armenia (Lesser Caucasus). Our results on modern samples show a promising discrimination power based on n-alkane chain length nC33 (probably nC31)) for grasses and herbs versus nC29 for deciduous trees, despite the large interplant variability within vegetation groups. In contrast with other Loess records in Europe, where Late Pleistocene environments are ranging from tundra-like (glacial) to deciduous forest habitats (interglacial), our results from two Armenian LPSs suggest a transition from humid-steppe biome or forest-steppe vegetation dominating during interglacial periods, to semi-desert shrubs species more adapted to the enhanced aridity during glacial periods.
Endlessly Responsible: Ethics as First Philosophy in Stanley Cavell’s Invocation of Literature
Authors: Blok Mette
Published: June 2019

This essay aims to give an overview of the topic ethics and literature in Stanley Cavell’s complete oeuvre. It argues that Cavell’s preoccupation with literature is, from beginning to end, primarily ethical, even though he takes his point of departure in epistemological skepticism. Recent research on the affinities between Cavell’s early writing on Shakespearean tragedy and the ethics of Emmanuel Levinas has helped to establish this but the question of how this part of Cavell’s work is related to his later development of Emersonian perfectionism is rarely touched upon. Consequently, this essay further argues that skepticism and perfectionism in Cavell’s thinking are two sides of one and the same ethics, which are bound together by the genre of romanticism. While Cavell’s work on skepticism is primarily concerned with the other, his work on perfectionism is primarily concerned with the self. Finally, this essay marks the point where Cavell’s and Levinas’ overall thinking part ways due to the fact that Cavell embraces Emersonian perfectionism.
Reconsidering Sustainable Mobility Patterns in Cultural Route Planning: Andreas Syngrou Avenue, Greece
Authors: Bakogiannis Efthimios , Kyriakidis Charalampos , Siti Maria , Floropoulou Eleni
Published: June 2019

Culture is frequently used as a means of promoting sustainable urban development. Indeed, in many areas across Europe, cultural and recreational routes or clusters have so far been utilized in order for urban regeneration and structural reconstruction to be pursued. Such routes have been developed in Greek cities as well, e.g., in the cities of Volos, Thessaloniki, and Athens. In the Greek capital, Athens, a couple of axes are actually recognized as cultural ones. Andreas Syngrou Avenue, initially designed as a six/eight-lane freeway located at the heart of the Athens metropolitan area, is one distinguished example. By focusing on this axis as a cultural route/cluster, the goal of this article is to elaborate on smart and sustainable mobility patterns for strengthening its cultural/recreational identity and increasing its attractiveness. To accomplish this goal, critical problems confining citizens’ mobility and access to various cultural landmarks in this area are identified and are properly dealt with, stressing the importance of sustainable mobility in relevant cultural planning endeavors. Based on the study and an assessment of the current state of this route (land uses, traffic loads, design qualities, and environmental affordances), a sustainable mobility proposal is provided in order for a master plan that enhances and develops the cultural function and identity of this route.
A Systematic Review of the Epidemiologic Literature Assessing Health Outcomes in Populations Living near Oil and Natural Gas Operations: Study Quality and Future Recommendations
Authors: Bamber Alison M. , Hasanali Stephanie H. , Nair Anil S. , Watkins Sharon M. , Vigil Daniel I. , Van Dyke Michael , McMullin Tami S. , Richardson Kristy
Published: June 2019

A systematic method was used to review the existing epidemiologic literature and determine the state of the scientific evidence for potential adverse health outcomes in populations living near oil and natural gas (ONG) operations in the United States. The review utilized adapted systematic review frameworks from the medical and environmental health fields, such as Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE), the Navigation Guide, and guidance from the National Toxicology Program’s Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT). The review included 20 epidemiologic studies, with 32 different health outcomes. Studies of populations living near ONG operations provide limited evidence (modest scientific findings that support the outcome, but with significant limitations) of harmful health effects including asthma exacerbations and various self-reported symptoms. Study quality has improved over time and the highest rated studies within this assessment have primarily focused on birth outcomes. Additional high-quality studies are needed to confirm or dispute these correlations.
Geographic Information Metadata—An Outlook from the International Standardization Perspective
Authors: Brodeur Jean , Coetzee Serena , Danko David , Garcia Stéphane , Hjelmager Jan
Published: June 2019

Geographic information metadata provides a detailed description of geographic information resources. Well before digital data emerged, metadata were shown in the margins of paper maps to inform the reader of the name of the map, the scale, the orientation of the magnetic North, the projection used, the coordinate systems, the legend, and so on. Metadata were used to communicate practical information for the proper use of maps. When geographic information entered the digital era with geographic information systems, metadata was also collected digitally to describe datasets and the dataset collections for various purposes. Initially, metadata were collected and saved in digital files by data producers for their own specific needs. The sharing of geographic datasets that required producers to provide metadata with the dataset to guide proper use of the dataset—map scale, data sources, extent, datum, coordinate reference system, etc. Because of issues with sharing and no common understanding of metadata requirements, the need for metadata standardization was recognized by the geographic information community worldwide. The ISO technical committee 211 was created in 1994 with the scope of standardization in the field of digital geographic information to support interoperability. In the early years of the committee, standardization of metadata was initiated for different purposes, which culminated in the ISO 19115:2003 standard. Now, there are many ISO Geographic information standards that covers the various aspect of geographic information metadata. This paper traces an illustration of the development and evolution of the requirements and international standardization activities of geographic information metadata standards, profiles and resources, and how these attest to facilitating the discovery, evaluation, and appropriate use of geographic information in various contexts.
Corticosterone Upregulates Gene and Protein Expression of Catecholamine Markers in Organotypic Brainstem Cultures
Authors: Busceti Carla L. , Ferese Rosangela , Bucci Domenico , Ryskalin Larisa , Gambardella Stefano , Madonna Michele , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Fornai Francesco
Published: June 2019

Glucocorticoids are produced by the adrenal cortex and regulate cell metabolism in a variety of organs. This occurs either directly, by acting on specific receptors in a variety of cells, or by stimulating catecholamine expression within neighbor cells of the adrenal medulla. In this way, the whole adrenal gland may support specific metabolic requirements to cope with stressful conditions from external environment or internal organs. In addition, glucocorticoid levels may increase significantly in the presence of inappropriate secretion from adrenal cortex or may be administered at high doses to treat inflammatory disorders. In these conditions, metabolic alterations and increased blood pressure may occur, although altered sleep-waking cycle, anxiety, and mood disorders are frequent. These latter symptoms remain unexplained at the molecular level, although they overlap remarkably with disorders affecting catecholamine nuclei of the brainstem reticular formation. In fact, the present study indicates that various doses of glucocorticoids alter the expression of genes and proteins, which are specific for reticular catecholamine neurons. In detail, corticosterone administration to organotypic mouse brainstem cultures significantly increases Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and Dopamine transporter (DAT), while Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT) is not affected. On the other hand, Dopamine Beta-Hydroxylase (DBH) increases only after very high doses of corticosterone.
Chemokine Signaling in Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Brandolini Laura , d’Angelo Michele , Antonosante Andrea , Cimini Annamaria , Allegretti Marcello
Published: June 2019

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a side effect of chemotherapics such as taxanes, vinca alkaloids, and platinum compounds. In recent years, several reports have indicated the involvement of different molecular mechanisms in CIPN. The pathways described so far are diverse and target various components of the peripheral Nervous System (PNS). Among the contributors to neuropathic pain, inflammation has been indicated as a powerful driver of CIPN. Several pieces of evidence have demonstrated a chemotherapy-induced increase in peripheral pro-inflammatory cytokines and a strong correlation with peripheral neuropathy. At present, there are not adequate strategies to prevent CIPN, although there are drugs for treating CIPN, such as duloxetine, that have displayed a moderate effect on CIPN. In this review, we focus on the players involved in CIPN with a particular emphasis on chemokine signaling.
Chromogranin-A Expression as a Novel Biomarker for Early Diagnosis of Colon Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhang Xueli , Zhang Hong , Shen Bairong , Sun Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2019

Colon cancer is one of the major causes of cancer death worldwide. The five-year survival rate for the early-stage patients is more than 90%, and only around 10% for the later stages. Moreover, half of the colon cancer patients have been clinically diagnosed at the later stages. It is; therefore, of importance to enhance the ability for the early diagnosis of colon cancer. Taking advantages from our previous studies, there are several potential biomarkers which have been associated with the early diagnosis of the colon cancer. In order to investigate these early diagnostic biomarkers for colon cancer, human chromogranin-A (CHGA) was further analyzed among the most powerful diagnostic biomarkers. In this study, we used a logistic regression-based meta-analysis to clarify associations of CHGA expression with colon cancer diagnosis. Both healthy populations and the normal mucosa from the colon cancer patients were selected as the double normal controls. The results showed decreased expression of CHGA in the early stages of colon cancer as compared to the normal controls. The decline of CHGA expression in the early stages of colon cancer is probably a new diagnostic biomarker for colon cancer diagnosis with high predicting possibility and verification performance. We have also compared the diagnostic powers of CHGA expression with the typical oncogene KRAS, classic tumor suppressor TP53, and well-known cellular proliferation index MKI67, and the CHGA showed stronger ability to predict early diagnosis for colon cancer than these other cancer biomarkers. In the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, CHGA was revealed to share some common pathways with KRAS and TP53. CHGA might be considered as a novel, promising, and powerful biomarker for early diagnosis of colon cancer.
Migraine: Experimental Models and Novel Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Tardiolo Giuseppe , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: June 2019

Migraine is a disorder affecting an increasing number of subjects. Currently, this disorder is not entirely understood, and limited therapeutic solutions are available. Migraine manifests as a debilitating headache associated with an altered sensory perception that may compromise the quality of life. Animal models have been developed using chemical, physical or genetic modifications, to evoke migraine-like hallmarks for the identification of novel molecules for the treatment of migraine. In this context, experimental models based on the use of chemicals as nitroglycerin or inflammatory soup were extensively used to mimic the acute state and the chronicity of the disorder. This manuscript is aimed to provide an overview of murine models used to investigate migraine pathophysiology. Pharmacological targets as 5-HT and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptors were evaluated for their relevance in the development of migraine therapeutics. Drug delivery systems using nanoparticles may be helpful for the enhancement of the brain targeting and bioavailability of anti-migraine drugs as triptans. In conclusion, the progresses in migraine management have been reached with the development of emerging agonists of 5-HT receptors and novel antagonists of CGRP receptors. The nanoformulations may represent a future perspective in which already known anti-migraine drugs showed to better exert their therapeutic effects.
Comparative Study on the Behavior of Virgin and Recycled Polyolefins–Cellulose Composites in Natural Environmental Conditions
Authors: Raut Iuliana , Calin Mariana , Vuluga Zina , Alexandrescu Elvira , Arsene Melania Liliana , Purcar Violeta , Nicolae Cristian-Andi , Gurban Ana Maria , Doni Mihaela , Jecu Luiza
Published: June 2019

Polypropylene–cellulose composites have great potential in many important commercial applications, and it is important to understand and properly evaluate their biodegradative behavior to achieve improved composite formulations in accordance with their future applications. In the present study, an outdoor soil burial test was performed in order to evaluate the susceptibility to degradation of polyolefins–cellulose composites. The structural and morphological changes were analyzed by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The weight loss of composite samples after burying in soil was recorded. The presence of new bands, as an indicator of degradation, was confirmed by FTIR-ATR spectra. The thermal stability of the composites after soil burial analyzed by TGA was slightly improved, with relatively higher temperatures being required to decompose the samples after exposure to environmental factors. SEM micrographs presented some modifications of the polymer surface, such as holes, cracks, exfoliations, and fractures. Increasing the cellulose percentage of the composite samples led to increased weight loss. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that composites based on polyolefins and renewable resources undergo a slow process of biodegradation after contact with environmental microorganisms and, with appropriate composition, could be applied to various environmental fields.
The Cactus and the Anthropologist: The Evolution of Cultural Expertise on the Entheogenic Use of Peyote in the United States
Authors: Bouayad Aurelien
Published: June 2019

This paper explores the complex evolution of the role anthropologists have played as cultural experts in the regulation of the entheogenic use of the peyote cactus throughout the 20th century. As experts of the “peyote cult”, anthropologists provided testimonies and cultural expertise in the regulatory debates in American legislative and judiciary arenas in order to counterbalance the demonization and prohibition of the medicinal and sacramental use of peyote by Native Americans through state and federal legislations. In the meantime, anthropologists have encouraged Peyotists to form a pan-tribal religious institution as a way to secure legal protection of their practice; in 1918, the Native American Church (NAC) was incorporated in Oklahoma, with its articles explicitly referring to the sacramental use of peyote. Operating as cultural experts, anthropologists have therefore assisted jurists in their understanding of the cultural and religious significance of peyote, and have at the same time counseled Native Americans in their interaction with the legal system and in the formatting of their claims in appropriate legal terms. This complex legal controversy therefore provides ample material for a general exploration of the use, evolution, and impact of cultural expertise in the American legal system, and of the various forms this expertise can take, thereby contributing to the contemporary efforts at surveying and theorizing cultural expertise. Through an historical and descriptive approach, the analysis notably demonstrates that the role of anthropologists as cultural experts has been marked by a practical and substantive evolution throughout the 20th century, and should therefore not be restrictively understood in relation to expert witnessing before courts. Rather, this paper underlines the transformative and multifaceted nature of cultural expertise, and highlights the problematic duality of the position that the two “generations” of anthropologists involved in this controversy have experienced, navigating between a supposedly impartial position as experts, and an arguably biased engagement as advocates for Native American religious rights.
Highly-Ductile Magnesium Alloys: Atomistic-Flow Mechanisms and Alloy Designing
Authors: Hamad Kotiba
Published: June 2019

This special issue, “Highly-Ductile Magnesium Alloys: Atomistic-Flow Mechanisms and Alloy Designing”, was introduced to cover all aspects associated with the improvement of the ductility of magnesium (Mg) materials through controlling the atomistic flow mechanisms in Mg. The structural aspects that can also influence the ductility of polycrystalline Mg alloys, such as grain size and basal texture characteristics, are addressed in this issue. Therefore, we hope that the contributions to the present issue can effectively support the research on the ductility of Mg.
Distance Measures between the Interval-Valued Complex Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Dai Songsong , Bi Lvqing , Hu Bo
Published: June 2019

Complex fuzzy set (CFS) is a recent development in the field of fuzzy set (FS) theory. The significance of CFS lies in the fact that CFS assigned membership grades from a unit circle in the complex plane, i.e., in the form of a complex number whose amplitude term belongs to a [ 0 , 1 ] interval. The interval-valued complex fuzzy set (IVCFS) is one of the extensions of the CFS in which the amplitude term is extended from the real numbers to the interval-valued numbers. The novelty of IVCFS lies in its larger range comparative to CFS. We often use fuzzy distance measures to solve some problems in our daily life. Hence, this paper develops some series of distance measures between IVCFSs by using Hamming and Euclidean metrics. The boundaries of these distance measures for IVCFSs are obtained. Finally, we study two geometric properties include rotational invariance and reflectional invariance of these distance measures.
Analysis of a Model of Leishmaniasis with Multiple Time Lags in All Populations
Authors: Agyingi Ephraim , Wiandt Tamas
Published: June 2019

There are several types of deterministic compartmental models for disease epidemiology such as SIR, SIS, SEIS, SEIR, etc. The exposed population group in, for example SEIS or SEIR, usually represents individuals in the incubation class. Time delays (of which there are several types) when incorporated into a SIR or SIS model, also fulfil the role of the incubation period without necessarily adding another compartment to the model. This paper incorporates time delays into a SIS model that describes the transmission dynamics of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The time lags account for the incubation periods within the sandflies vector, the human hosts and the different animal groups that serve as reservoir hosts. A threshold value, R 0 , of the model is computed and used to study the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium of the system. Analysis demonstrating local and global stability of the disease-free equilibrium when R 0 < 1 is provided for all n + 1 population groups involved is provided. The existence of an endemic equilibrium is only guaranteed when R 0 > 1 and numerical analysis of the endemic equilibrium for a human host, a vector host and a single animal reservoir host that is globally stable is also provided.
Bisimulation for Secure Information Flow Analysis of Multi-Threaded Programs
Authors: Noroozi Ali A. , Karimpour Jaber , Isazadeh Ayaz
Published: June 2019

Preserving the confidentiality of information is a growing concern in software development. Secure information flow is intended to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information by preventing them from flowing to attackers. This paper discusses how to ensure confidentiality for multi-threaded programs through a property called observational determinism. Operational semantics of multi-threaded programs are modeled using Kripke structures. Observational determinism is formalized in terms of divergence weak low-bisimulation. Bisimulation is an equivalence relation associating executions that simulate each other. The new property is called bisimulation-based observational determinism. Furthermore, a model checking method is proposed to verify the new property and ensure that secure information flow holds in a multi-threaded program. The model checking method successively refines the Kripke model of the program until the quotient of the model with respect to divergence weak low-bisimulation is reached. Then, bisimulation-based observational determinism is checked on the quotient, which is a minimized model of the concrete Kripke model. The time complexity of the proposed method is polynomial in the size of the Kripke model. The proposed approach has been implemented on top of PRISM, a probabilistic model checking tool. Finally, a case study is discussed to show the applicability of the proposed approach.
Astaxanthin Complexes to Attenuate Muscle Damage after In Vivo Femoral Ischemia-Reperfusion
Authors: Zuluaga Tamayo Marisol , Choudat Laurence , Aid-Launais Rachida , Thibaudeau Olivier , Louedec Liliane , Letourneur Didier , Gueguen Virginie , Meddahi-Pellé Anne , Couvelard Anne , Pavon-Djavid Graciela
Published: June 2019

(1) Background: Reperfusion injury refers to the cell and tissue damage induced, when blood flow is restored after an ischemic period. While reperfusion reestablishes oxygen supply, it generates a high concentration of radicals, resulting in tissue dysfunction and damage. Here, we aimed to challenge and achieve the potential of a delivery system based on astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant, in attenuating the muscle damage in an animal model of femoral hind-limb ischemia and reperfusion. (2) Methods: The antioxidant capacity and non-toxicity of astaxanthin was validated before and after loading into a polysaccharide scaffold. The capacity of astaxanthin to compensate stress damages was also studied after ischemia induced by femoral artery clamping and followed by varied periods of reperfusion. (3) Results: Histological evaluation showed a positive labeling for CD68 and CD163 macrophage markers, indicating a remodeling process. In addition, higher levels of Nrf2 and NQO1 expression in the sham group compared to the antioxidant group could reflect a reduction of the oxidative damage after 15 days of reperfusion. Furthermore, non-significant differences were observed in non-heme iron deposition in both groups, reflecting a cell population susceptible to free radical damage. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that the in situ release of an antioxidant molecule could be effective in improving the antioxidant defenses of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-damaged muscles.
Bostrychines A–F, Six Novel Mycosporine-Like Amino-Acids and a Novel Betaine from the Red Alga Bostrychia scorpioides
Authors: Orfanoudaki Maria , Hartmann Anja , Miladinovic Helena , Nguyen Ngoc Hieu , Karsten Ulf , Ganzera Markus
Published: June 2019

Various red algae have repeatedly been reported to produce a variety of UV-absorbing mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), compounds that are well-known as natural sun-screens, as well as a plethora of betaines, metabolites which contribute to the osmotic balance under salt stress. Among other Rhodophyta, Bostrychia scorpioides, which is thriving as epiphyte on salt marsh plants in Europe and hence experiences extreme environmental conditions such as desiccation, UV-stress and osmotic stress, has barely been investigated for its secondary metabolites. In the present study, seven mycosporine like-amino acids and two betaines were isolated from Bostrychia scorpioides using various chromatographic techniques. Their structures were confirmed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS). Six MAAs and one betaine were chemically characterized as new natural products.
Assessment of Physical Fitness after Bariatric Surgery and Its Association with Protein Intake and Type of Cholecalciferol Supplementation
Authors: Smelt Hendrika J. M. , Pouwels Sjaak , Celik Alper , Gupta Adarsh , Smulders Johannes F.
Published: June 2019

Background and objectives: Several studies showed that there is a relationship between vitamin and mineral status and muscle strength. In particular this is the case for handgrip strength (HS) and vitamin D deficiency. In bariatric surgery there is a risk of decrease in muscle strength after surgery and also vitamin and mineral deficiencies are not uncommon. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of low vitamin 25 (OH) cholecalciferol levels, high dose cholecalciferol supplementation regime and protein intake on physical fitness, measured using handgrip strength (HS) and the shuttle walk run test (SWRT). Materials and Methods: For this retrospective study, 100 patients who have had bariatric surgery were included. Group A (n = 50) used 800 IU oral cholecalciferol per day. Group B (n = 50) used 800 IU oral cholecalciferol daily and 50,000 IU liquid cholecalciferol monthly lifelong. Both groups were matched on common variables. To measure physical fitness, we used the HS manometer of Jamar and the Shuttle Walk Run Test (SWRT) to assess physical capacity. Results: No significant differences in HS and SWRT outcomes were found between patients with serum 25 (OH) cholecalciferol < 75 nmol/L or >75 nmol/L. The postoperative HS is significantly influenced by protein intake (p = 0.017) and no significant influence was seen in outcomes of the SWRT (p = 0.447). Conclusion: We have found that serum 25 (OH) cholecalciferol and different cholecalciferol supplementation regimes do not have a significant effect on HS and SWRT before, three and 6 months after surgery. It seems that protein intake plays a more important role in maintaining adequate muscle strength.
An Investigation of Non-Metallic Inclusions in Different Ferroalloys using Electrolytic Extraction
Authors: Wang Yong , Karasev Andrey , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: June 2019

Ferroalloys are integral constituents of the steelmaking process, since non-metallic inclusions (NMIs) from ferroalloys significantly influence the transformation of inclusions present in liquid steel or they are directly involved in casted steel. In this study, the characteristics of inclusions (such as the number, morphology, size, and composition) in different industrial ferroalloys (FeV, FeMo, FeB, and FeCr) were investigated using the electrolytic extraction (EE) technique. After extraction from the ferroalloy samples and filtration of the solution, the inclusions were investigated on a film filter. The three-dimensional (3D) investigations were conducted using a scanning electron microscopy in combination with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The characteristics of inclusions observed in the ferroalloys were compared with previous results and discussed with respect to their possible behaviors in the melt and their effects on the quality of the cast steels. The particle size distributions and floatation distances were plotted for the main inclusion types. The results showed that the most harmful inclusions in the ferroalloys investigated are the following: pure Al2O3 and high Al2O3-containing inclusions in FeV alloys; pure SiO2 and high SiO2-containing inclusions in FeMo alloys; Al2O3 and SiO2-containing inclusions in FeB alloys; and MnO-Cr2O3, Al2O3, and Cr2O3-based inclusions in FeCr alloys.
Dioscin Inhibits the Invasion and Migration of Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells by Reversing TGF-β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Chen Bonan , Zhou Shikun , Zhan Yujuan , Ke Junzi , Wang Kun , Liang Qiqi , Hou Yu , Zhu Pingping , Ao Weizhen , Wei Xianli , Xiao Jianyong
Published: June 2019

Dioscin is a natural steroidal saponin that can be isolated from Chinese medicine, such as Dioscoreae rhizoma. It has wild range of pharmacological activities such as hepatoprotection, a lipid-lowering effect, and anti-inflammation. Recently, mounting studies reported the anticancer effect of dioscin on a variety of tumor cells. However, the potential effect of dioscin on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HepG2 cells is unclear. In the present study, dioscin was identified to inhibit transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and induced invasive and migratory behavior of HepG2 cells. Consistently, the expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin and gap junction proteins increased following dioscin treatment, while mesenchymal markers decreased, including N-cadherin, Vimentin, Snail, and Slug. Furthermore, we discovered that TGF-β1 induces phosphorylation of JNK, p38, and Erk, whereas the activation of these kinases was reversed by dioscin treatment in a dose-dependent manner. With the addition of Asiatic acid, a p38 activator, the inhibitory effect of dioscin on EMT was reversed. Taken together, these data indicated that dioscin inhibits EMT in HepG2 cells, which is mediated in large part by inhibition of the p38-MAPK signaling.
Reclamation of Fishery Processing Waste: A Mini-Review
Authors: Wang Chi-Hao , Doan Chien Thang , Nguyen Van Bon , Nguyen Anh Dzung , Wang San-Lang
Published: June 2019

Seafood such as fish, shellfish, and squid are a unique source of nutrients. However, many marine processing byproducts, such as viscera, shells, heads, and bones, are discarded, even though they are rich sources of structurally diverse bioactive nitrogenous components. Based on emerging evidence of their potential health benefits, these components show significant promise as functional food ingredients. Fish waste components contain significant levels of high-quality protein, which represents a source for biofunctional peptide mining. The chitin contained in shrimp shells, crab shells, and squid pens may also be of value. The components produced by bioconversion are reported to have antioxidative, antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and anticoagulant activities. This review provides an overview of the extraordinary potential of processing fish and chitin-containing seafood byproducts via chemical procedures, enzymatic and fermentation technologies, and chemical modifications, as well as their applications.
Set-Up and Validation of a High Throughput Screening Method for Human Monoacylglycerol Lipase (MAGL) Based on a New Red Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Miceli Matteo , Casati Silvana , Ottria Roberta , Di Leo Simone , Eberini Ivano , Palazzolo Luca , Parravicini Chiara , Ciuffreda Pierangela
Published: June 2019

Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is a serine hydrolase that has a key regulatory role in controlling the levels of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), the main signaling molecule in the endocannabinoid system. Identification of selective modulators of MAGL enables both to provide new tools for investigating pathophysiological roles of 2-AG, and to discover new lead compounds for drug design. The development of sensitive and reliable methods is crucial to evaluate this modulatory activity. In the current study, we report readily synthesized long-wavelength putative fluorogenic substrates with different acylic side chains to find a new probe for MAGL activity. 7-Hydroxyresorufinyl octanoate proved to be the best substrate thanks to the highest rate of hydrolysis and the best Km and Vmax values. In addition, in silico evaluation of substrates interaction with the active site of MAGL confirms octanoate resorufine derivative as the molecule of choice. The well-known MAGL inhibitors URB602 and methyl arachidonylfluorophosphonate (MAFP) were used for the assay validation. The assay was highly reproducible with an overall average Z′ value of 0.86. The fast, sensitive and accurate method described in this study is suitable for low-cost high-throughput screening (HTS) of MAGL modulators and is a powerful new tool for studying MAGL activity.
Vasodilatory Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Bacopa monnieri Active Compounds on Rat Mesenteric Arteries
Authors: Kamkaew Natakorn , Paracha Tamkeen Urooj , Ingkaninan Kornkanok , Waranuch Neti , Chootip Krongkarn
Published: June 2019

B. monnieri extract (BME) is an abundant source of bioactive compounds, including saponins and flavonoids known to produce vasodilation. However, it is unclear which components are the more effective vasodilators. The aim of this research was to investigate the vasorelaxant effects and mechanisms of action of saponins and flavonoids on rat isolated mesenteric arteries using the organ bath technique. The vasorelaxant mechanisms, including endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway and calcium flux were examined. Saponins (bacoside A and bacopaside I), and flavonoids (luteolin and apigenin) at 0.1–100 µM caused vasorelaxation in a concentration-dependent manner. Luteolin and apigenin produced vasorelaxation in endothelial intact vessels with more efficacy (Emax 99.4 ± 0.7 and 95.3 ± 2.6%) and potency (EC50 4.35 ± 1.31 and 8.93 ± 3.33 µM) than bacoside A and bacopaside I (Emax 83.6 ± 2.9 and 79.9 ± 8.2%; EC50 10.8 ± 5.9 and 14.6 ± 5.4 µM). Pretreatment of endothelial intact rings, with L-NAME (100 µM); an eNOS inhibitor, or removal of the endothelium reduced the relaxant effects of all compounds. In K+-depolarised vessels suspended in Ca2+-free solution, these active compounds inhibited CaCl2-induced contraction in endothelial denuded arterial rings. Moreover, the active compounds attenuated transient contractions induced by 10 µM phenylephrine in Ca2+-free medium containing EGTA (1 mM). Thus, relaxant effects occurred in both endothelial intact and denuded vessels which signify actions through both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells. In conclusion, the flavonoids have about twice the potency of saponins as vasodilators. However, in the BME, there is ~20 × the amount of vaso-reactive saponins and thus are more effective.
Optimization of Cyclohexanol and Cyclohexanone Yield in the Photocatalytic Oxofunctionalization of Cyclohexane over Degussa P-25 under Visible Light
Authors: Henríquez Adolfo , Melin Victoria , Moreno Nataly , Mansilla Héctor D. , Contreras David
Published: June 2019

The sustainable transformation of basic chemicals into organic compounds of industrial interest using mild oxidation processes has proved to be challenging. The production of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone from cyclohexane is of interest to the nylon manufacturing industry. However, the industrial oxidation of cyclohexane is inefficient. Heterogeneous photocatalysis represents an alternative way to synthesize these products, but the optimization of this process is difficult. In this work, the yields of photocatalytic cyclohexane conversion using Degussa P-25 under visible light were optimized. To improve cyclohexanol production, acetonitrile was used as an inert photocatalytic solvent. Experiments showed that the use of the optimized conditions under solar light radiation did not affect the cyclohexanol/cyclohexanone ratio. In addition, the main radical intermediary produced in the reaction was detected by the electronic paramagnetic resonance technique.
Benzophenones from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. Exhibit Anticancer Activity in HepG2 Cells via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wu De-Ling , Liao Zhen-Dong , Chen Fang-Fang , Zhang Wei , Ren Ya-Shuo , Wang Can-Can , Chen Xiao-Xiao , Peng Dai-Yin , Kong Ling-Yi
Published: June 2019

A chemical investigation of the fibrous roots of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. led to the isolation of four benzophenones, including one new compound (1) and three known ones (2–4). Comprehensive 1D, 2D NMR and HRESIMS data established the structures of the isolated compounds. The absolute configurations were determined by comparison of the calculated optical rotation (OR) with experimental data. All the isolates were evaluated for their cytotoxicities on hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B). Compound 1 showed strong cytotoxicity against HepG2 and Hep3B cells, with IC50 values at 153.1 and 180.6 nM. Through MTT assay, flow cytometry and Western blot analysis, compound 1 demonstrated the ability to stimulate apoptosis via the NF-κB signaling pathway in HepG2 cells. These benzophenones are potential lead compounds for the development of better treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma.
2-Iodo-4′-Methoxychalcone Attenuates Methylglyoxal-Induced Neurotoxicity by Activation of GLP-1 Receptor and Enhancement of Neurotrophic Signal, Antioxidant Defense and Glyoxalase Pathway
Authors: Tseng Yu-Ting , Tsai Yi-Hong , Fülöp Ferenc , Chang Fang-Rong , Lo Yi-Ching
Published: June 2019

Methylglyoxal (MG) acts as a reactive precursor of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). This compound is often connected with pathologies such as diabetes, neurodegenerative processes and diseases of aging. 2-iodo-4′-methoxychalcone (CHA79), a synthetic halogen-containing chalcone derivative, has been reported its anti-diabetic activity. This study aims to investigate the potential protective capability of CHA79 against MG-mediated neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Results indicated CHA79 increased viability of cells and attenuated the rate of apoptosis in MG-exposed SH-SY5Y. CHA79 up-regulated expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2) and down-regulated apoptotic proteins (Bax, cytochrome c, caspase-3, caspase-9). Moreover, CHA79 significantly up-regulated expression of neurotrophic factors, including glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), p75NTR, p-TrkB, p-Akt, p-GK-3β and p-CREB. CHA79 attenuated MG-induced ROS production and enhanced the antioxidant defense including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), HO-1, SOD and GSH. Furthermore, CHA79 attenuated MG-induced reduction of glyoxalase-1 (GLO-1), a vital enzyme on removing AGE precursors. In conclusion, CHA79 is the first novel synthetic chalcone possessing the GLP-1R and GLO-1 activating properties. CHA 79 also exhibits neuroprotective effects against MG toxicity by enhancing neurotrophic signal, antioxidant defense and anti-apoptosis pathway.
Tautomerism in Azo and Azomethyne Dyes: When and If Theory Meets Experiment
Authors: Antonov Liudmil
Published: June 2019

The performance of 26 hybrid density functionals was tested against a tautomeric dataset (TautData), containing experimental information for the keto-enol tautomeric equilibrium in 16 tautomeric azodyes and Schiff bases in cyclohexane, carbon tetrachloride and acetonitrile. The results have shown that MN12-SX, BHandH and M06-2X can be used to describe the tautomeric state of the core structures in the frame of ~0.5 kcal/mol error and correctly predict the tautomeric state in respect of dominating tautomeric form. Among them MN12-SX is the best performer, although it fails to describe the nonplanarity of some of the enol tautomers. The same experimental dataset was used to develop and test a special DFT functional (TautLYP) aimed at describing the tautomeric state in azo- and azomethyne compounds in solution when nonspecific solvents are used.
Paradoxical Patterns of Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome-Like Liver Injury in Aged Female CD-1 Mice Triggered by Cannabidiol-Rich Cannabis Extract and Acetaminophen Co-Administration
Authors: Ewing Laura E. , McGill Mitchell R. , Yee Eric U. , Quick Charles M. , Skinner Charles M. , Kennon-McGill Stefanie , Clemens Melissa , Vazquez Joel H. , McCullough Sandra S. , Williams D. Keith , Kutanzi Kristy R. , Walker Larry A. , ElSohly Mahmoud A. , James Laura P. , Gurley Bill J. , Koturbash Igor
Published: June 2019

The goal of this study was to investigate the potential for a cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract (CRCE) to interact with the most common over-the-counter drug and the major known cause of drug-induced liver injury–acetaminophen (APAP)–in aged female CD-1 mice. Gavaging mice with 116 mg/kg of cannabidiol (CBD) [mouse equivalent dose (MED) of 10 mg/kg of CBD] in CRCE delivered with sesame oil for three consecutive days followed by intraperitoneally (i.p.) acetaminophen (APAP) administration (400 mg/kg) on day 4 resulted in overt toxicity with 37.5% mortality. No mortality was observed in mice treated with 290 mg/kg of CBD+APAP (MED of 25 mg/kg of CBD) or APAP alone. Following CRCE/APAP co-administration, microscopic examination revealed a sinusoidal obstruction syndrome-like liver injury–the severity of which correlated with the degree of alterations in physiological and clinical biochemistry end points. Mechanistically, glutathione depletion and oxidative stress were observed between the APAP-only and co-administration groups, but co-administration resulted in much greater activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Strikingly, these effects were not observed in mice gavaged with 290 mg/kg CBD in CRCE followed by APAP administration. These findings highlight the potential for CBD/drug interactions, and reveal an interesting paradoxical effect of CBD/APAP-induced hepatotoxicity.
Interactive Landscape Design and Flood Visualisation in Augmented Reality
Authors: Tomkins Adam , Lange Eckart
Published: June 2019

In stakeholder participation workshops, digital and hard-copy maps, alongside other representation formats in 2D and 3D, are used extensively to support communication, spatial evaluation and interactive decision making processes. In this paper, we present a novel tool to enhance traditional map-based workshop activities using augmented reality. Augmented reality technology is gaining momentum as a tool for visualising environmental design choices in planning and design, and is used in a range of applications including stakeholder participation, design evaluation and flood risk communication. We demonstrate interactive and collaborative 3D cartographic visualisations which enable real-time multi-user exercises in landscape intervention design and flood visualisation.
Development of Antibody-Modified Nanobubbles Using Fc-Region-Binding Polypeptides for Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Hamano Nobuhito , Kamoshida Sho , Kikkawa Yamato , Yano Yusuke , Kobayashi Tomomi , Endo-Takahashi Yoko , Suzuki Ryo , Maruyama Kazuo , Ito Yuji , Nomizu Motoyoshi , Negishi Yoichi
Published: June 2019

Ultrasound (US) imaging is a widely used imaging technique. The use of US contrast agents such as microbubbles, which consist of phospholipids and are filled with perfluorocarbon gases, has become an indispensable component of clinical US imaging, while molecular US imaging has recently attracted significant attention in combination with efficient diagnostics. The avidin–biotin interaction method is frequently used to tether antibodies to microbubbles, leading to the development of a molecular targeting US imaging agent. However, avidin still has limitations such as immunogenicity. We previously reported that lipid-based nanobubbles (NBs) containing perfluorocarbon gas are suitable for US imaging and gene delivery. In this paper, we report on the development of a novel antibody modification method for NBs using Fc-region-binding polypeptides derived from protein A/G. First, we prepared anti-CD146 antibody-modified NBs using this polypeptide, resulting in high levels of attachment to human umbilical vein endothelial cells expressing CD146. To examine their targeting ability and US imaging capability, the NBs were administered to tumor-bearing mice. The contrast imaging of antibody-modified NBs was shown to be prolonged compared with that of non-labeled NBs. Thus, this antibody modification method using an Fc-binding polypeptide may be a feasible tool for developing a next-generation antibody-modified US imaging agent.