bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vanadium Derivative Exposure Promotes Functional Alterations of VSMCs and Consequent Atherosclerosis via ROS/p38/NF-κB-Mediated IL-6 Production
Authors: Yeh Chang-Ching , Wu Jing-Yiing , Lee Guan-Lin , Wen Hsiu-Ting , Lin Pinpin , Kuo Cheng-Chin
Published: December 2019

Vanadium is a transition metal widely distributed in the Earth’s crust, and is a major contaminant in fossil fuels. Its pathological effect and regulation in atherosclerosis remain unclear. We found that intranasal administration of the vanadium derivative NaVO3 significantly increased plasma and urinary vanadium levels and induced arterial lipid accumulation and atherosclerotic lesions in apolipoprotein E-deficient knockout mice (ApoE−/−) murine aorta compared to those in vehicle-exposed mice. This was accompanied by an increase in plasma reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels and a decrease in the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) differentiation marker protein SM22α in the atherosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, exposure to NaVO3 or VOSO4 induced cytosolic ROS generation and IL-6 production in VSMCs and promoted VSMC synthetic differentiation, migration, and proliferation. The anti-oxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) not only suppresses IL-6 production and VSMC pathological responses including migration and proliferation but also prevents atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice. Inhibition experiments with NAC and pharmacological inhibitors demonstrated that NaVO3-induced IL-6 production is signaled by ROS-triggered p38-mediated NF-κB-dependent pathways. Neutralizing anti-IL-6 antibodies impaired NaVO3-mediated VSMC migration and proliferation. We concluded that NaVO3 exposure activates the ROS-triggering p38 signaling to selectively induce NF-κB-mediated IL-6 production. These signaling pathways induce VSMC synthetic differentiation, migration, and proliferation, leading to lipid accumulation and atherosclerosis.
Increased Expression of Immature Mannose-Containing Glycoproteins and Sialic Acid in Aged Mouse Brains
Authors: Simon Frieder , Bork Kaya , Gnanapragassam Vinayaga S. , Baldensperger Tim , Glomb Marcus A. , Di Sanzo Simone , Ori Alessandro , Horstkorte Rüdiger
Published: December 2019

Aging represents the accumulation of changes in an individual over time, encompassing physical, psychological, and social changes. Posttranslational modifications of proteins such as glycosylation, including sialylation or glycation, are proposed to be involved in this process, since they modulate a variety of molecular and cellular functions. In this study, we analyzed selected posttranslational modifications and the respective proteins on which they occur in young and old mouse brains. The expression of neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), as well as the carbohydrate-epitopes paucimannose and high-mannose, polysialic acid, and O-GlcNAc were examined. We demonstrated that mannose-containing glycans increased on glycoproteins in aged mouse brains and identified synapsin-1 as one major carrier of paucimannose in aged brains. In addition, we found an accumulation of so-called advanced glycation endproducts, which are generated by non-enzymatic reactions and interfere with protein function. Furthermore, we analyzed the expression of sialic acid and found also an increase during aging.
The 1,10-Phenanthroline Ligand Enhances the Antiproliferative Activity of DNA-Intercalating Thiourea-Pd(II) and -Pt(II) Complexes Against Cisplatin-Sensitive and -Resistant Human Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Marverti Gaetano , Gozzi Gaia , Lauriola Angela , Ponterini Glauco , Belluti Silvia , Imbriano Carol , Costi Maria Paola , D’Arca Domenico
Published: December 2019

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy, often because of the frequent insurgence of chemoresistance to the drugs currently used. Thus, new therapeutical agents are needed. We tested the toxicity of 16 new DNA-intercalating agents to cisplatin (cDDP)-sensitive human ovarian carcinoma cell lines and their resistant counterparts. The compounds were the complexes of Pt(II) or Pd(II) with bipyridyl (bipy) and phenanthrolyl (phen) and with four different thiourea ancillary ligands. Within each of the four series of complexes characterized by the same thiourea ligand, the Pd(phen) drugs invariably showed the highest anti-proliferative efficacy. This paralleled both a higher intracellular drug accumulation and a more efficient DNA intercalation than all the other metal-bidentate ligand combinations. The consequent inhibition of topoisomerase II activity led to the greatest inhibition of DNA metabolism, evidenced by the inhibition of the expression of the folate cycle enzymes and a marked perturbation of cell-cycle distribution in both cell lines. These findings indicate that the particular interaction of Pd(II) with phenanthroline confers the best pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties that make this class of DNA intercalators remarkable inhibitors, even of the resistant cell growth.
Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes Involved in the Molecular Mechanism of Pericarp Elongation and Differences in Sucrose and Starch Accumulation between Vegetable and Grain Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Yang Pu , Li Zhonghao , Wu Caoyang , Luo Yan , Li Jing , Wang Pengke , Gao Xiaoli , Gao Jinfeng , Feng Baili
Published: December 2019

Pea (Pisum sativum L.), as a major source of plant protein, is becoming one of the major cultivated crop species worldwide. In pea, the pericarp is an important determinant of the morphological characteristics and seed yield. To investigate the molecular mechanism of pericarp elongation as well as sucrose and starch accumulation in the pods of different pea cultivars, we performed transcriptomic analysis of the pericarp of two types of pea cultivar (vegetable pea and grain pea) using RNA-seq. A total of 239.44 Gb of clean sequence data were generated, and were aligned to the reference genome of Pisum sativum L. In the two samples, 1935 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Among these DEGs, three antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) were detected to have higher expression levels in the grain pea pericarps at the pod-elongating stages. Otherwise, five peroxidase (POD)-encoding genes were detected to have lower expression levels in the vegetative pericarps at the development stage of pea pod growth. Furthermore, genes related to starch and sucrose metabolism in the pea pod, such as SUS, INV, FBA, TPI, ADPase, SBE, SSS, and GBSS, were found to be differentially expressed. The RNA-seq data were validated through real-time quantitative RT-PCR of 13 randomly selected genes. Our findings provide the gene expression profile of, as well as differential expression information on, the two pea cultivars, which will lay the foundation for further studies on pod development and nutrition accumulation in the pea and provide valuable information for pea cultivar improvement.
A Comparative Genomic and Transcriptional Survey Providing Novel Insights into Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (bmp2) in Fishes
Authors: Yang Guang , Qin Zhendong , Kou Hongyan , Liang Rishen , Zhao Lijuan , Jiang Shoujia , Lin Li , Zhang Kai
Published: December 2019

Intermuscular bones (IBs) are only found in the muscles of fish. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (bmp2) is considered to be the most active single osteogenesis factor. It promotes cell proliferation and differentiation during bone repair, as well as inducing the formation of bones and cartilages in vivo. However, detailed investigations of this family in fish are incredibly limited. Here, we have used a variety of published and unpublished bmp2 sequences for teleosts and cartilage fish in order to explore and expand our understanding of bmp2 genes in fish. Our results confirmed that teleost genomes contain two or more bmp2 genes, and the diversity of bmp2 genes in vertebrates appears to be as a result of a combination of whole genome duplication (WGD) and gene loss. Differences were also observed in tissue distribution and relative transcription abundance of the bmp2s through a transcriptomic analysis. Our data also indicated that bmp2b may play an important role in the formation of IBs in teleosts. In addition, protein sequence alignments and 3D structural predictions of bmp2a and bmp2b supported their similar roles in fishes. To summarize, our existing work provided novel insights into the bmp2 family genes in fishes through a mixture of comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis.
Next-Generation Fluorogen-Based Reporters and Biosensors for Advanced Bioimaging
Authors: Péresse Tiphaine , Gautier Arnaud
Published: December 2019

Our ability to observe biochemical events with high spatial and temporal resolution is essential for understanding the functioning of living systems. Intrinsically fluorescent proteins such as the green fluorescent protein (GFP) have revolutionized the way biologists study cells and organisms. The fluorescence toolbox has been recently extended with new fluorescent reporters composed of a genetically encoded tag that binds endogenously present or exogenously applied fluorogenic chromophores (so-called fluorogens) and activates their fluorescence. This review presents the toolbox of fluorogen-based reporters and biosensors available to biologists. Various applications are detailed to illustrate the possible uses and opportunities offered by this new generation of fluorescent probes and sensors for advanced bioimaging.
Structure-Based Redesign of a Self-Sufficient Flavin-Containing Monooxygenase towards Indigo Production
Authors: Lončar Nikola , van Beek Hugo L. , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: December 2019

Indigo is currently produced by a century-old petrochemical-based process, therefore it is highly attractive to develop a more environmentally benign and efficient biotechnological process to produce this timeless dye. Flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) are able to oxidize a wide variety of substrates. In this paper we show that the bacterial mFMO can be adapted to improve its ability to convert indole into indigo. The improvement was achieved by a combination of computational and structure-inspired enzyme redesign. We showed that the thermostability and the kcat for indole could be improved 1.5-fold by screening a relatively small number of enzyme mutants. This project not only resulted in an improved biocatalyst but also provided an improved understanding of the structural elements that determine the activity of mFMO and provides hints for further improvement of the monooxygenase as biocatalyst.
Physalis peruviana L. (Solanaceae) Is Not a Host of Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae): Evidence from Multi-Year Field and Laboratory Studies in Colombia
Authors: Aluja Martín , Guillén Larissa , Castro Ángela , Cárdenas Martha Liliana , Hurtado Maribel , Durán Óscar , Arévalo-Peñaranda Emilio
Published: December 2019

Scientifically-based, tephritid fly host status determination lies at the heart of strategic regulatory decisions impinging on international fruit trade. Here we conducted intensive field and laboratory studies with peaches as controls, to determine the host status of Physalis peruviana for the Medfly—Ceratitis capitata, as this fruit is experiencing a consumption boom worldwide. A total of 98,132 Uchuvas (local name), collected in Colombia from the plant or the ground over a three-year period (2016–2018) did not yield a single C. capitata larva or pupa, thus reaching a Probit 9 level with 99.9968% efficacy and 96% confidence level. Field-cage studies with enclosed fruit-bearing Uchuva plants, exposing fruit with an intact, damaged or totally removed husk to the attack of C. capitata, also failed to yield infestations. Highly artificial choice experiments, exposing gravid females to unripe and fully ripe fruit, resulted in an absence of infestations, even when overripe Uchuvas were artificially damaged. The husk and surface resins/waxes inhibit fly landings on fruit and oviposition activity. Considering our results and the fact that the foliage, husk and fruit of P. peruviana are repellent/toxic to insects, we conclude that this plant should be treated as a non-natural and non-conditional host of C. capitata.
The Rise of Mitochondria in Peripheral Arterial Disease Physiopathology: Experimental and Clinical Data
Authors: Pizzimenti Mégane , Riou Marianne , Charles Anne-Laure , Talha Samy , Meyer Alain , Andres Emmanuel , Chakfé Nabil , Lejay Anne , Geny Bernard
Published: December 2019

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a frequent and serious condition, potentially life-threatening and leading to lower-limb amputation. Its pathophysiology is generally related to ischemia-reperfusion cycles, secondary to reduction or interruption of the arterial blood flow followed by reperfusion episodes that are necessary but also—per se—deleterious. Skeletal muscles alterations significantly participate in PAD injuries, and interestingly, muscle mitochondrial dysfunctions have been demonstrated to be key events and to have a prognosis value. Decreased oxidative capacity due to mitochondrial respiratory chain impairment is associated with increased release of reactive oxygen species and reduction of calcium retention capacity leading thus to enhanced apoptosis. Therefore, targeting mitochondria might be a promising therapeutic approach in PAD.
The Prognostic Effect of Circadian Blood Pressure Pattern on Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcome Is Independent of Left Ventricular Remodeling
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare , Celic Vera , Pencic Biljana , Mancia Giuseppe , Grassi Guido , Stankovic Goran , Ivanovic Branislava
Published: December 2019

We aimed to investigate the predictive value of 24 h blood pressure (BP) patterns on adverse cardiovascular (CV) outcome in the initially untreated hypertensive patients during long-term follow-up. This study included 533 initially untreated hypertensive patients who were involved in this study in the period between 2007 and 2012. All participants underwent laboratory analysis, 24 h BP monitoring, and echocardiographic examination at baseline. The patients were followed for a median period of nine years. The adverse outcome was defined as the hospitalization due to CV events (atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, myocardial revascularization, heart failure, stroke, or CV death). During the nine-year follow-up period, adverse CV events occurred in 85 hypertensive patients. Nighttime SBP, non-dipping BP pattern, LV hypertrophy (LVH), left atrial enlargement (LAE), and LV diastolic dysfunction (LV DD) were risk factors for occurrence of CV events. However, nighttime SBP, non-dipping BP pattern, LVH, and LV DD were the only independent predictors of CV events. When all four BP pattern were included in the model, non-dipping and reverse dipping BP patterns were associated with CV events, but only reverse-dipping BP pattern was independent predictor of CV events. The current study showed that reverse-dipping BP pattern was predictor of adverse CV events independently of nighttime SBP and LV remodeling during long-term follow-up. The assessment of BP patterns has very important role in the long-time prediction in hypertensive population.
A Systematic Review of Survival Rates of Osseointegrated Implants in Fully and Partially Edentulous Patients Following Immediate Loading
Authors: Del Fabbro Massimo , Testori Tiziano , Kekovic Vladan , Goker Funda , Tumedei Margherita , Wang Hom-Lay
Published: December 2019

Background: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the survival rates of immediately loaded implants after at least five years. Besides implant failure, the amount of marginal bone loss around implants and the complication type were assessed. Methods: The electronic search was undertaken on Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using key terms such as: “immediate loading”, “immediate function”, “immediate restoration”, “immediate temporization”, “dental implants”, “fully edentulous patients”, “partially edentulous patients”. The search terms were combined using the Boolean operators AND, OR. The last electronic search was performed on 15 February 2018. Two authors independently screened the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the risk-of bias. The main outcomes recorded for each study were: implant and prosthesis success and survival, marginal bone level change, incidence and type of complications. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to estimate cumulative survival rates. Results: Thirty-four prospective studies with at least five-year follow-up, published between 2007 and 2017 were included. A total of 5349 immediately loaded implants in 1738 patients were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 72.4 months (median 60 months, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 64.53, 80.25 months, range 60 to 147 months). The mean weighted implant survival was 97.4% (median 98.15%, 95% CI: 96.29%, 98.54%, range 83.80% to 100%). Cumulative survival rate of implants placed in the mandible was significantly higher than for the maxilla (p < 0.01). No significant difference in failure rate was found among the types of prosthesis employed (p = 0.27). The mean peri-implant bone level change at the end of the follow-up in each study ranged from 0.3 to 1.7 mm. Conclusion: Immediate loading of implants appears to have long-term predictability and success rate under well-defined circumstances.
Impact of Simultaneous Consideration of Cardiac and Vascular Function on Long-Term All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality
Authors: Hsu Po-Chao , Lee Wen-Hsien , Tsai Wei-Chung , Chu Chun-Yuan , Chen Ying-Chih , Lee Meng-Kuang , Lin Tsung-Hsien , Lee Chee-Siong , Voon Wen-Chol , Lai Wen-Ter , Sheu Sheng-Hsiung , Su Ho-Ming
Published: December 2019

Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is a good indicator of cardiac function, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) is a good indicator of vascular function. Both of them can predict cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. Objectives: There is scarce literature discussing the impact of simultaneous consideration of cardiac and vascular function on overall and CV mortality. Methods: We included 958 patients and classified them into four groups. Groups 1 to 4 were patients with LVEF ≥ 50% and baPWV below the median, LVEF < 50% but baPWV below the median, LVEF ≥ 50% but baPWV above the median, and LVEF < 50% and baPWV above the median, respectively. Results: The median follow-up to mortality was 93 (25th–75th percentile: 69–101) months. There were 91 cases of CV mortality and 238 cases of all-cause mortality. After multivariable analysis, age, gender, diabetes, mean blood pressure, group 2 versus group 1, and group 4 versus group 1 were significant predictors of all-cause mortality (P ≤ 0.038) and age, diabetes, mean blood pressure, group 2 versus group 1, and group 4 versus group 1 were significant predictors of CV mortality (P ≤ 0.008). Conclusions: Patients with higher LVEF and lower baPWV had a similar overall and CV mortality as patients with higher LVEF and baPWV. Patients with lower LVEF and higher baPWV had the highest overall and CV mortality among the four study groups. In addition, patients with lower LVEF alone had a higher CV mortality than the patients with higher baPWV alone. Therefore, simultaneous consideration of cardiac and vascular function may be useful in predicting overall and CV mortality.
The Trends in Opioid Use in Castile and Leon, Spain: A Population-Based Registry Analysis of Dispensations in 2015 to 2018
Authors: Herrera-Gómez Francisco , Gutierrez-Abejón Eduardo , Ayestarán Ignacio , Criado-Espegel Paloma , Álvarez F. Javier
Published: December 2019

Opioids are driving-impairing medicines (DIM). To assess the evolution and trends of opioid analgesics use between 2015 and 2018 in Castile and Leon (Spain), a population-based registry study was conceived. The length of opioid use and its concomitant use with other DIMs were studied. Analyses were done considering age and gender distributions. Adjusted consumption for licensed drivers is also presented. Of the 5 million dispensations recorded between 2015 and 2018, opioid analgesics were dispensed to 11.44% of the general population and 8.72% of vehicle drivers. Increases among daily users (2.6 times higher) and chronic users (1.5% higher) were noted, supporting the overall increase in opioid use (1.5%). The use of multiple drugs including other DIMs was a common finding (mean ± SD, 2.54 ± 0.01). Acute use (5.26%) and chronic use (3.20%) were also frequent. Formulations combining opioid analgesics with nonopioid analgesics were preferred. The use of opioids increased in Spain between 2015 and 2018. Concomitant use with other DIMS especially affects women and the elderly. Frequent use of opioid analgesics with other DIMs is a serious problem for drivers and increases the risk of accidents. Promoting safe driving should be a main objective of health authorities, to be achieved by developing and implementing educational activities for healthcare professionals and patients.
The Influence of Lubricant Conductivity on Bearing Currents in the Case of Rolling Bearing Greases
Authors: Gonda Attila , Capan Resat , Bechev Dani , Sauer Bernd
Published: December 2019

In the course of increasing electric mobility, the effect of electricity on parts of machines is more significant than before. Rolling bearings and their lubrication, as a part of electric motors, are subjected to harmful currents, which lead to damage in the bearing in the long term. In order to avoid such damage, the influence of the lubricant in the bearing is becoming increasingly important. The electrical behaviour of the system can be investigated by analysing the discharge currents and the breakdown voltage in rolling bearings with lubricants of different compositions. This paper presents a procedure for characterizing the breakdown voltage at the rolling bearing and the influence of conductivity of the lubricants on harmful electrical phenomena.
The Influence of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Dynamic Properties of Nematic Liquid Crystals in Magnetic Field
Authors: Cirtoaje Cristina , Petrescu Emil
Published: December 2019

This article aims to study the impact of carbon nanotube dispersions in liquid crystals. A theoretical model for the system’s dynamics is presented, considering the elastic continuum theory and a planar alignment of liquid crystal molecules on the nanotube’s surface. Experimental calculation of the relaxation times in the magnetic field was made for two cases: when the field was switched on (τon), and when it was switched off (τoff). The results indicate an increase of the relaxation time by about 25% when the magnetic field was switched off, and a smaller increase (about 10%) when the field was switched on, where both were in good agreement with the theoretical values.
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) Applied in Bone Reconstructive Surgery Using Bovine Bone Grafts: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rosso Marcelie Priscila de Oliveira , Buchaim Daniela Vieira , Pomini Karina Torres , Coletta Bruna Botteon Della , Reis Carlos Henrique Bertoni , Pilon João Paulo Galletti , Duarte Júnior Getúlio , Buchaim Rogério Leone
Published: December 2019

The use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with biomodulatory effects on biological tissues, currently called photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), assists in healing and reduces inflammation. The application of biomaterials has emerged in bone reconstructive surgery, especially the use of bovine bone due to its biocompatibility. Due to the many benefits related to the use of PBMT and bovine bones, the aim of this research was to review the literature to verify the relationship between PBMT and the application of bovine bone in bone reconstruction surgeries. We chose the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases for the search by matching the keywords: “Bovine bone AND low-level laser therapy”, “Bovine bone AND photobiomodulation therapy”, “Xenograft AND low-level laser therapy”, and “Xenograft AND photobiomodulation therapy”. The initial search of the three databases retrieved 240 articles, 18 of which met all inclusion criteria. In the studies concerning animals (17 in total), there was evidence of PBMT assisting in biomaterial-related conduction, formation of new bone, bone healing, immunomarker expression, increasing collagen fibers, and local inflammation reduction. However, the results disagreed with regard to the resorption of biomaterial particles. The only human study showed that PBMT with bovine bone was effective for periodontal regeneration. It was concluded that PBMT assists the process in bone reconstruction when associated with bovine bone, despite divergences between applied protocols.
Influences of Chemical Composition and Fineness on the Development of Concrete Strength by Curing Conditions
Authors: Lee Jaehyun , Lee Taegyu
Published: December 2019

In this study, the influences of chemical composition and fineness on the development of concrete strength by curing conditions were investigated through performance evaluation of high SO3 Portland cement (HSPC) and ordinary Portland cement (OPC). At the same fineness (3800 cm2/g), the initial and final setting times of HSPC were 92 and 98 min less than OPC. Early mortar compressive strength was approximately 176% higher after 24 h. After curing for 15 h, 18 h, and 24 h, the maturity of HSPC concrete (107.4%, 109.6%, and 111.7%) and early compressive strength (146.4%, 170.7%, and 154.5%) were higher than measured for OPC concrete. HSPC fineness was 111.8% higher than OPC, leading to early activation of the hydration reaction. By X-ray fluorescence analysis, the SO3 content of HSPC was 107.9% that of OPC. The applicable time for HSPC concrete form removal was shorter than that for OPC concrete. The relationships y = −10.57 ln(x) + 47.30 and y = −9.84 ln(x) + 44.05 were estimated for predicting the early-age strength OPC and HSPC concrete. Therefore, applying HSPC concrete to an actual construction site is expected to shorten the construction period and reduce the heating curing cost in winter compared to OPC concrete.
Characterizations of Positive Operator-Monotone Functions and Monotone Riemannian Metrics via Borel Measures
Authors: Chansangiam Pattrawut , Sabau Sorin V.
Published: December 2019

We show that there is a one-to-one correspondence between positive operator-monotone functions on the positive reals, monotone Riemannian metrics, and finite positive Borel measures on the unit interval. This correspondence appears as an integral representation of weighted harmonic means with respect to that measure on the unit interval. We also investigate the normalized/symmetric conditions for operator-monotone functions. These conditions turn out to characterize monotone metrics and Morozowa–Chentsov functions as well. Concrete integral representations of such functions related to well-known monotone metrics are also provided. Moreover, we use this integral representation to decompose positive operator-monotone functions. Such decomposition gives rise to a decomposition of the associated monotone metric.
Design of ESR Slag for Remelting 9CrMoCoB Steel under Simple Protective Ar Gas
Authors: Peng Leizhen , Jiang Zhouhua , Geng Xin
Published: December 2019

Thermodynamic calculations by using Factsage 7.3 and simple protective gas electroslag remelting (ESR) experiments were conducted to design the appropriate ESR slag for remelting the qualified 9CrMoCoB ingot. First, the proper basic slag was determined based on the phase diagram of CaF2–CaO–Al2O3–x%MgO calculated using Factsage 7.3. Second, equilibrium reactions between 9CrMoCoB and the basic slag containing varied SiO2, and B2O3 contents were calculated to study the effects of B2O3 and SiO2 on B, Si, and Al contents in steel. Then, equilibrium reaction experiments were conducted to validate the calculated results. Finally, the appropriate slags were attained and the simple protective Ar gas ESR experiments were conducted to make a verification. Results showed that the liquid phase region of the slag of CaF2–CaO–Al2O3–x%MgO at 1300–1400 °C increased first, then decreased with the MgO addition. With the B2O3 content increasing, the boron content increased, while the Si, Al contents decreased, and at a given B2O3 addition, the B and Al contents decreased with the SiO2 content increasing, whereas the Si content increased. The appropriate slags for simple protective gas ESR remelting 9CrMoCoB were 55%CaF2–20%CaO–3%MgO–22%Al2O3–2%SiO2–1.3%B2O3 and 55%CaF2–20%CaO–3%MgO–22%Al2O3–3%SiO2–1.7%B2O3.
On the Accuracy of Finite Element Models Predicting Residual Stresses in Quenched Stainless Steel
Authors: Medina-Juárez Israel , Araujo de Oliveira Jeferson , Moat Richard J. , García-Pastor Francisco Alfredo
Published: December 2019

Prediction of residual stress profiles after quenching is important for a range of industry applications. Finite element method (FEM) models have the capability of simulate the cooling and stress evolution during quenching; however, they are very dependent on the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) imposed on the surface. In this paper, an analysis of the HTC effect on the accuracy of the residual stress profile after quenching a 304L stainless steel Jominy sample was conducted. The FEM model was validated in its thermal accuracy using thermocouples and the residual stress profile was measured using the contour method. The results show that a thermally validated FEM model may yield results which overestimate the tensile residual stress and underestimates the compressive residual stress maxima while accurately calculating the maxima positions from the quenched edge. The FEM model accuracy was not improved by modifying the HTC or by using a different thermal expansion coefficient. The results are discussed in terms of the effect of plasticity due to twinning in the residual stresses calculated by the FEM model.
Effect of Austenitizing Temperature and Prior Martensite on Ultra-Fine Bainite Transformation Kinetics
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Li Pengfei , Luo Yang , Zhou Xiyue , Qi Liang , Li Shengci , Wang Zhigang
Published: December 2019

An evaluation method for bainite transformation kinetics was established by theoretical derivation, dilatometric curve analysis, and microstructure observation. The isothermal transformation of ultra-fine bainite under different austenitizing temperatures and contents of prior martensite was studied using a DIL805L dilatometer. The kinetic parameters (activation energy Q*, autocatalytic factor λ, temperature rate constant κ, unit volume transformation rate, and the number density of nucleation sites Ni) of ultra-fine bainite transformation under different austenitizing temperatures and contents of prior martensite were calculated based on the displacement growth bainite dynamics model. It was found that the autocatalytic factor λ is linear with the austenite grain size d, and the number density of nucleation sites Ni is closely related to the average volume of the bainite subunit Vb. Moreover, the formation of prior martensite and its increase can increase the number of nucleation sites and the nucleation rate of the ultra-fine bainite; thus, the ultra-fine bainite transformation can be accelerated.
Genomic Survey, Transcriptome, and Metabolome Analysis of Apocynum venetum and Apocynum hendersonii to Reveal Major Flavonoid Biosynthesis Pathways
Authors: Gao Gang , Chen Ping , Chen Jikang , Chen Kunmei , Wang Xiaofei , Abubakar Aminu Shehu , Liu Ning , Yu Chunming , Zhu Aiguo
Published: December 2019

Apocynum plants, especially A. venetum and A. hendersonii, are rich in flavonoids. In the present study, a whole genome survey of the two species was initially carried out to optimize the flavonoid biosynthesis-correlated gene mining. Then, the metabolome and transcriptome analyses were combined to elucidate the flavonoid biosynthesis pathways. Both species have small genome sizes of 232.80 Mb (A. venetum) and 233.74 Mb (A. hendersonii) and showed similar metabolite profiles with flavonols being the main differentiated flavonoids between the two specie. Positive correlation of gene expression levels (flavonone-3 hydroxylase, anthocyanidin reductase, and flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase) and total flavonoid content were observed. The contents of quercitrin, hyperoside, and total anthocyanin in A. venetum were found to be much higher than in A. hendersonii, and such was thought to be the reason for the morphological difference in color of A. venetum and A. hendersonii. This study provides valuable genomic and metabolome information for understanding of A. venetum and A. hendersonii, and lays a foundation for elucidating Apocynum genus plant flavonoid biosynthesis.
Short-Term Temporal Metabolic Behavior in Halophilic Cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. Strain PCC 7002 after Salt Shock
Authors: Aikawa Shimpei , Nishida Atsumi , Hasunuma Tomohisa , Chang Jo-Shu , Kondo Akihiko
Published: December 2019

In response to salt stress, cyanobacteria increases the gene expression of Na+/H+ antiporter and K+ uptake system proteins and subsequently accumulate compatible solutes. However, alterations in the concentrations of metabolic intermediates functionally related to the early stage of the salt stress response have not been investigated. The halophilic cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 was subjected to salt shock with 0.5 and 1 M NaCl, then we performed metabolomics analysis by capillary electrophoresis/mass spectrometry (CE/MS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) after cultivation for 1, 3, 10, and 24 h. Gene expression profiling using a microarray after 1 h of salt shock was also conducted. We observed suppression of the Calvin cycle and activation of glycolysis at both NaCl concentrations. However, there were several differences in the metabolic changes after salt shock following exposure to 0.5 M and 1 M NaCl: (i): the main compatible solute, glucosylglycerol, accumulated quickly at 0.5 M NaCl after 1 h but increased gradually for 10 h at 1 M NaCl; (ii) the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway and the tricarboxylic acid cycle were activated at 0.5 M NaCl; and (iii) the multi-functional compound spermidine greatly accumulated at 1 M NaCl. Our results show that Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 acclimated to different levels of salt through a salt stress response involving the activation of different metabolic pathways.
Influence of Pulsed He–Ne Laser Irradiation on the Red Blood Cell Interaction Studied by Optical Tweezers
Authors: Zhu Ruixue , Avsievich Tatiana , Bykov Alexander , Popov Alexey , Meglinski Igor
Published: December 2019

Optical Tweezers (OT), as a revolutionary innovation in laser physics, has been extremely useful in studying cell interaction dynamics at a single-cell level. The reversible aggregation process of red blood cells (RBCs) has an important influence on blood rheological properties, but the underlying mechanism has not been fully understood. The regulating effects of low-level laser irradiation on blood rheological properties have been reported. However, the influence of pulsed laser irradiation, and the origin of laser irradiation effects on the interaction between RBCs remain unclear. In this study, RBC interaction was assessed in detail with OT. The effects of both continuous and pulsed low-level He–Ne laser irradiation on RBC aggregation was investigated within a short irradiation period (up to 300 s). The results indicate stronger intercellular interaction between RBCs in the enforced disaggregation process, and both the cell contact time and the initial contact area between two RBCs showed an impact on the measured disaggregation force. Meanwhile, the RBC aggregation force that was independent to measurement conditions decreased after a short time of pulsed He–Ne laser irradiation. These results provide new insights into the understanding of the RBC interaction mechanism and laser irradiation effects on blood properties.
Formation of Au-Bearing Antigorite Serpentinites and Magnetite Ores at the Massif of Ophiolite Ultramafic Rocks: Thermodynamic Modeling
Authors: Murzin Valery , Chudnenko Konstantin , Palyanova Galina , Varlamov Dmitry
Published: December 2019

We constructed thermodynamic models of the formation of two types of gold-ore mineralization at the Kagan ultramafic massif in the Southern Urals (Russia). The first type of gold-mineralization is widely spread at the massif in the tectonic zones of schistose serpentinites containing typically ≤ 0.1 ppm Au. The second type of gold-ore mineralization is represented by veined massive, streaky and impregnated magnetite ores in contact with serpentinites. It contains to 5 vol.% sulfides and 0.2–1.2 ppm Au. Our thermodynamic calculations explain the formation of two types of gold-ore mineralization in the bedrocks of ultramafic massifs. Metamorphic water, which is the result of the dehydration of early serpentinites (middle Riphean) during high-temperature regional metamorphism (700 °C, 10 kbar) (late Precambrian), is considered as the source of ore-bearing fluid in the models. The metasomatic interaction of metamorphic fluid with serpentinites is responsible for the gold-poor mineralization of the 1st type at T = 450–250 °C and P = 2.5–0.5 kbar. The hydrothermal gold-rich mineralization of the 2nd type was formed during mixing of metamorphic and meteoric fluids at T = 500–400 °C and P = 2–3 kbar and discharge of mixed fluid in the open space of cracks in serpentinites. The model calculations showed that the dominant forms of gold transport in fluids with pH = 3–5 are AuCl2− complexes (≥450 °C) and, as the temperature decreases, AuHS0, or AuOH0. Mineral associations obtained in model calculations are in general similar to the observed natural types of gold mineralization.
Syntheses, Structures, and Characteristics of Three Metal Complexes Constructed Using Hexacarboxylic Acid
Authors: Meng Lingshu , Zhao Lun , Guo Guanlin , Liu Xin , Liang Zhijun , Xiu Jian , Zhou Xu
Published: December 2019

In this study, three new 3D coordination polymers (CPs), {[Cd3(L)(H2O)6]·H2O}n (1), {[Cu1.5(L)0.5(bimb)1.5]·5H2O·DMF}n (2), and {[Mn1.5(H3L)(bibp)0.5(H2O)2]·3H2O}n (3) (bimb= 1,3-bis(imidazol-1-yl)benzene, bibp= 1,4-bis((4-imidazol-1-yl)benzyl)piperazine), were prepared under solvothermal or hydrothermal conditions based on a hexadentate ligand (1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine hexa-acetic acid (H6L)). Structural elucidations were carried out by IR spectra along with single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) (dynamic and isothermal) and XRD techniques were used for property evaluations of the polymers. Furthermore, the fluorescence properties and detection of the Fe3+ ions in 1 were tested at room temperature, and the electrochemical behavior of 2 is also stated in this article.
Key Aspects of Myo-Inositol Hexaphosphate (Phytate) and Pathological Calcifications
Authors: Grases Felix , Costa-Bauza Antonia
Published: December 2019

Phytate (myo-inositol hexaphosphate, InsP6) is an important component of seeds, legumes, nuts, and whole cereals. Although this molecule was discovered in 1855, its biological effects as an antinutrient was first described in 1940. The antinutrient effect of phytate results because it can decrease the bioavailability of important minerals under certain circumstances. However, during the past 30 years, researchers have identified many important health benefits of phytate. Thus, 150 years have elapsed since the discovery of phytate to the first descriptions of its beneficial effects. This long delay may be due to the difficulty in determining phytate in biological media, and because phytate dephosphorylation generates many derivatives (InsPs) that also have important biological functions. This paper describes the role of InsP6 in blocking the development of pathological calcifications. Thus, in vitro studies have shown that InsP6 and its hydrolysates (InsPs), as well as pyrophosphate, bisphosphonates, and other polyphosphates, have high capacity to inhibit calcium salt crystallization. Oral or topical administration of phytate in vivo significantly decreases the development of pathological calcifications, although the details of the underlying mechanism are uncertain. Moreover, oral or topical administration of InsP6 also leads to increased urinary excretion of mixtures of different InsPs; in the absence of InsP6 administration, only InsP2 occurs at detectable levels in urine.
Improved Ozonation Efficiency for Polymerization Mother Liquid from Polyvinyl Chloride Production Using Tandem Reactors
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Wang Penglei , Zhang Yagang , Zan Xingjie , Zhu Wenjuan , Jiang Yingfang , Zhang Letao , Yasin Akram
Published: December 2019

Polymerization mother liquid (PML) is one of the main sources of wastewater in the chlor-alkali industry. The effective degradation of the PML produced in PVC polymerization using three or five ozone reactors in tandem was designed with a focus on improving the ozonation efficiency. The ozonation efficiency of the tandem reactors for the degradation of PML, along with the effect of ozone concentration, the number of reactors utilized in series, and the reaction time on the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal were investigated in detail. The results showed that the COD removal increased as the ozone concentration was increased from 10.6 to 60 mg·L−1, achieving 66.4% COD removal at ozone concentration of 80.6 mg·L−1. However, when the ozone concentration was increased from 60 mg·L−1 to 80 mg·L−1, the COD removal only increased very little. The COD decreased with increasing ozone concentration. During the initial degradation period, the degradation rate was the highest at both low and high ozone concentrations. The degradation rate decreased with reaction time. The rate at a low ozone concentration decreased more significantly than at high ozone concentration. Although high ozone concentration is desirable for COD removal and degradation rate, the utilization efficiency of ozone decreased with increasing ozone concentration. The ozone utilization efficiency of the five-reactor device was three times higher than that of three tandem reactors, demonstrating that ozonation utilization efficiency can be improved by increasing the number of tandem reactors. Ozonation in tandem reactors is a promising approach for PML treatment.
Phytochemical Fingerprinting and In Vitro Bioassays of the Ethnomedicinal Fern Tectaria coadunata (J. Smith) C. Christensen from Central Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Shyam Sharan , Sut Stefania , Barbon Di Marco Serena , Zengin Gokhan , Gandin Valentina , De Franco Michele , Pant Deepak Raj , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi , Dall’Acqua Stefano , Rajbhandary Sangeeta
Published: December 2019

Tectaria coadunata, an ethnomedicinal fern used in Nepal to treat a large number of diseases, has been poorly studied with regard to its phytochemical composition and possible bioactivity. This study was performed with the aim of supporting traditional medicine as a new source of bioactive constituents. Phytochemical compositions of methanol extracts were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), liquid chromatography–diode array detector–mass spectrophotometry (LC-DAD-MS), and liquid chromatography–fluorescence–mass spectrometry. Quali-quantitative data revealed large amount of procyanidins, mainly of the A-type, as well as eriodictyol-7-O-glucuronide and luteolin-7-O-glucoronide as main constituents. The antioxidant, cytotoxic, and inhibitory activity of five enzymes that are implicated in human diseases was evaluated for the extract and fractions. High free-radical scavenging activity in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays and inhibitory activities against cholinesterases and tyrosinase were observed. Furthermore, a moderate cytotoxic effect was observed on the 2008 and BxPC3 cell lines. Overall results showed potential usefulness of this fern as a source of phytochemicals for pharmaceutical uses.
Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of Hybrids Targeting Opioid and Neurokinin Receptors
Authors: Wtorek Karol , Adamska-Bartłomiejczyk Anna , Piekielna-Ciesielska Justyna , Ferrari Federica , Ruzza Chiara , Kluczyk Alicja , Piasecka-Zelga Joanna , Calo’ Girolamo , Janecka Anna
Published: December 2019

Morphine, which acts through opioid receptors, is one of the most efficient analgesics for the alleviation of severe pain. However, its usefulness is limited by serious side effects, including analgesic tolerance, constipation, and dependence liability. The growing awareness that multifunctional ligands which simultaneously activate two or more targets may produce a more desirable drug profile than selectively targeted compounds has created an opportunity for a new approach to developing more effective medications. Here, in order to better understand the role of the neurokinin system in opioid-induced antinociception, we report the synthesis, structure–activity relationship, and pharmacological characterization of a series of hybrids combining opioid pharmacophores with either substance P (SP) fragments or neurokinin receptor (NK1) antagonist fragments. On the bases of the in vitro biological activities of the hybrids, two analogs, opioid agonist/NK1 antagonist Tyr-[d-Lys-Phe-Phe-Asp]-Asn-d-Trp-Phe-d-Trp-Leu-Nle-NH2 (2) and opioid agonist/NK1 agonist Tyr-[d-Lys-Phe-Phe-Asp]-Gln-Phe-Phe-Gly-Leu-Met-NH2 (4), were selected for in vivo tests. In the writhing test, both hybrids showed significant an antinociceptive effect in mice, while neither of them triggered the development of tolerance, nor did they produce constipation. No statistically significant differences in in vivo activity profiles were observed between opioid/NK1 agonist and opioid/NK1 antagonist hybrids.
Theoretical Study of Zirconium Isomorphous Substitution into Zeolite Frameworks
Authors: Li Duichun , Xing Bin , Wang Baojun , Li Ruifeng
Published: December 2019

Systematic periodic density functional theory computations including dispersion correction (DFT-D) were carried out to determine the preferred location site of Zr atoms in sodalite (SOD) and CHA-type topology frameworks, including alumino-phosphate-34 (AlPO-34) and silico-alumino-phosphate-34 (SAPO-34), and to determine the relative stability and Brönsted acidity of Zr-substituted forms of SOD, AlPO-34, and SAPO-34. Mono and multiple Zr atom substitutions were considered. The Zr substitution causes obvious structural distortion because of the larger atomic radius of Zr than that of Si, however, Zr-substituted forms of zeolites are found to be more stable than pristine zeolites. Our results demonstrate that in the most stable configurations, the preferred favorable substitutions of Zr in substituted SOD have Zr located at the neighboring sites of the Al-substituted site. However, in the AlPO-34 and SAPO-34 frameworks, the Zr atoms are more easily distributed in a dispersed form, rather than being centralized. Brönsted acidity of substituted zeolites strongly depends on Zr content. For SOD, substitution of Zr atoms reduces Brönsted acidity. However, for Zr-substituted forms of AlPO-34 and SAPO-34, Brönsted acidity of the Zr-O(H)-Al acid sites are, at first, reduced and, then, the presence of Zr atoms substantially increased Brönsted acidity of the Zr-O(H)-Al acid site. The results in the SAPO-34-Zr indicate that more Zr atoms substantially increase Brönsted acidity of the Si-O(H)-Al acid site. It is suggested that substituted heteroatoms play an important role in regulating and controlling structural stability and Brönsted acidity of zeolites.