bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Health Comorbidities in Pediatric Chronic Pain: A Narrative Review of Epidemiology, Models, Neurobiological Mechanisms and Treatment
Authors: Vinall Jillian , Pavlova Maria , Asmundson Gordon , Rasic Nivez , Noel Melanie
Published: December 2016

Chronic pain during childhood and adolescence can lead to persistent pain problems and mental health disorders into adulthood. Posttraumatic stress disorders and depressive and anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that co-occur at high rates in both adolescent and adult samples, and are linked to heightened impairment and disability. Comorbid chronic pain and psychopathology has been explained by the presence of shared neurobiology and mutually maintaining cognitive-affective and behavioral factors that lead to the development and/or maintenance of both conditions. Particularly within the pediatric chronic pain population, these factors are embedded within the broader context of the parent–child relationship. In this review, we will explore the epidemiology of, and current working models explaining, these comorbidities. Particular emphasis will be made on shared neurobiological mechanisms, given that the majority of previous research to date has centered on cognitive, affective, and behavioral mechanisms. Parental contributions to co-occurring chronic pain and psychopathology in childhood and adolescence will be discussed. Moreover, we will review current treatment recommendations and future directions for both research and practice. We argue that the integration of biological and behavioral approaches will be critical to sufficiently address why these comorbidities exist and how they can best be targeted in treatment.
Effect of Pore Structure on Soot Deposition in Diesel Particulate Filter
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Sakai Tatsuya
Published: December 2016

Nowadays, in the after-treatment of diesel exhaust gas, a diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been used to trap nano-particles of the diesel soot. However, as there are more particles inside the filter, the pressure which corresponds to the filter backpressure increases, which worsens the fuel consumption rate, together with the abatement of the available torque. Thus, a filter with lower backpressure would be needed. To achieve this, it is necessary to utilize the information on the phenomena including both the soot transport and its removal inside the DPF, and optimize the filter substrate structure. In this paper, to obtain useful information for optimization of the filter structure, we tested seven filters with different porosities and pore sizes. The porosity and pore size were changed systematically. To consider the soot filtration, the particle-laden flow was simulated by a lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). Then, the flow field and the pressure change were discussed during the filtration process.
Cosmetics Utilization Practice in Jigjiga Town, Eastern Ethiopia: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bilal Arebu , Tilahun Zelalem , Shimels Tariku , Gelan Yewubdar , Osman Ebrahim
Published: December 2016

The trend of cosmetics utilization has increased globally; however, the exact amount of usage is not researched well. Lack of population awareness on proper use of cosmetics, particularly in developing countries, causes a prominent health challenge. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the cosmetics utilization practices in Jigjiga town, Eastern Ethiopia. A community based cross-sectional study, using a semi-structured questionnaire, was used to assess factors associated with cosmetics use. Of the 559 participants, 93% used at least one type of cosmetics in the two weeks prior to the survey. The most commonly used products were body creams and lotions (68%), shampoos and conditioners (35%), and deodorants and perfumes (29%). Being single, female, and in the age group of 18–20 years increased the odds of cosmetics utilization. However, being in primary school and being self-employed showed a less likely use of cosmetics. Two hundred forty-seven (44%) of the interviewed household members reported that they use traditional herbal cosmetics. A higher likelihood of traditional herbal cosmetics use was observed in the age group of 18–20 years. This study indicated that the community in Jigjiga town use different types of cosmetics. Education, occupation, marital status, age, and gender were all important factors that determined the use of cosmetics in the study area.
Gas Source Techniques for Molecular Beam Epitaxy of Highly Mismatched Ge Alloys
Authors: Stephenson Chad , Gillett-Kunnath Miriam , O’Brien William , Kudrawiec Robert , Wistey Mark
Published: December 2016

Ge and its alloys are attractive candidates for a laser compatible with silicon integrated circuits. Dilute germanium carbide (Ge1−xCx) offers a particularly interesting prospect. By using a precursor gas with a Ge4C core, C can be preferentially incorporated in substitutional sites, suppressing interstitial and C cluster defects. We present a method of reproducible and upscalable gas synthesis of tetrakis(germyl)methane, or (H3Ge)4C, followed by the design of a hybrid gas/solid-source molecular beam epitaxy system and subsequent growth of defect-free Ge1−xCx by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Secondary ion mass spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and contactless electroreflectance confirm the presence of carbon with very high crystal quality resulting in a decrease in the direct bandgap energy. This technique has broad applicability to growth of highly mismatched alloys by MBE.
Foliations-Webs-Hessian Geometry-Information Geometry-Entropy and Cohomology
Authors: Boyom Michel
Published: December 2016

IN MEMORIAM OF ALEXANDER GROTHENDIECK. THE MAN.
Evaluation of Whole Tree Growth Increment Derived from Tree-Ring Series for Use in Assessments of Changes in Forest Productivity across Various Spatial Scales
Authors: Metsaranta Juha , Bhatti Jagtar
Published: December 2016

The inherent predictability of inter-annual variation in forest productivity remains unknown. Available field-based data sources for understanding this variability differ in their spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and typical units of measure. Nearly all other tree and forest characteristics are in practice derived from measurements of diameter at breast height (DBH). Therefore, diameter increment reconstructed annually from tree-ring data can be used to estimate annual growth increments of wood volume, but the accuracy and precision of these estimates requires assessment. Annual growth estimates for n = 170 trees sampled for whole stem analysis from five tree species (jack pine, lodgepole pine, black spruce, white spruce, and trembling aspen) in Western Canada were compared against increments derived from breast height measurements only. Inter-annual variability of breast height and whole tree growth increments was highly correlated for most trees. Relative errors varied by species, diameter class, and the equation used to estimate volume (regional vs. national). A simple example of the possible effect of this error when propagated to the stand level is provided.
Assessment of Geographic Information System (GIS) Skills Employed by Graduates from Three Forestry Programs in the United States
Authors: Merry Krista , Bettinger Pete , Grebner Donald , Boston Kevin , Siry Jacek
Published: December 2016

This research evaluates the current use of geographic information systems (GIS) by forestry program graduates employed in the United States who graduated from university in the past five years. The purpose was to understand what geospatial processes and databases are typically used by field foresters. A survey was designed and sent to recent forestry graduates from Mississippi State University, Oregon State University, and the University of Georgia, with 30% of those surveyed choosing to participate. The majority of forestry graduates surveyed use GIS at least once a week, and the most frequently employed tasks included editing tabular data, adjusting polygon boundaries, buffering and splitting polygons, and querying for spatial and tabular information. Very few overlay or advance spatial analysis tools were noted as used in regular work efforts. Most respondents use digital aerial photographs as reference, along with satellite images. LiDAR is increasingly being used by these foresters, but to a lesser extent. ArcMap and Google Earth were noted as the most commonly used software packages. Most foresters rely on an organization’s technical support staff for assistance. The study results can be used as a guide for academic programs in their efforts to provide timely and effective knowledge on geospatial topics to forestry undergraduate students.
Genome-Wide Survey Reveals Transcriptional Differences Underlying the Contrasting Trichome Phenotypes of Two Sister Desert Poplars
Authors: Ma Jianchao , He Xiaodong , Bai Xiaotao , Niu Zhimin , Duan Bingbing , Chen Ningning , Shao Xuemin , Wan Dongshi
Published: December 2016

Trichomes, which are widely used as an important diagnostic characteristic in plant species delimitation, play important roles in plant defense and adaptation to adverse environments. In this study, we used two sister poplar species, Populus pruinosa and Populus euphratica—which have, respectively, dense and sparse trichomes—to examine the genetic differences associated with these contrasting phenotypes. The results showed that 42 and 45 genes could be identified as candidate genes related to trichomes in P. pruinosa and P. euphratica, respectively; most of these genes possessed high degrees of diversification in their coding sequences, but they were similar in intron/exon structure in the two species. We also found that most of the candidate trichome genes were expressed at higher levels in P. pruinosa, which has dense trichomes, than in P. euphratica, where there are few trichomes. Based on analyses of transcriptional profiles, a total of 195 genes, including many transcription factors, were found to show distinct differences in expression. The results of gene function annotation suggested that the genes identified as having contrasting levels of expression level are mainly associated with trichome elongation, ATPase activity, and hormone transduction. Changes in the expression of these and other related genes with high sequence diversification may have contributed to the contrast in the pattern of trichome phenotypes between the two species.
Air Quality Strategies on Public Health and Health Equity in Europe—A Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Li , Zhong Buqing , Vardoulakis Sotiris , Zhang Fengying , Pilot Eva , Li Yonghua , Yang Linsheng , Wang Wuyi , Krafft Thomas
Published: December 2016

Air pollution is an important public health problem in Europe and there is evidence that it exacerbates health inequities. This calls for effective strategies and targeted interventions. In this study, we conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies relating to air pollution control on public health and health equity in Europe. Three databases, Web of Science, PubMed, and Trials Register of Promoting Health Interventions (TRoPHI), were searched for scientific publications investigating the effectiveness of strategies on outdoor air pollution control, public health and health equity in Europe from 1995 to 2015. A total of 15 scientific papers were included in the review after screening 1626 articles. Four groups of strategy types, namely, general regulations on air quality control, road traffic related emission control interventions, energy generation related emission control interventions and greenhouse gas emission control interventions for climate change mitigation were identified. All of the strategies reviewed reported some improvement in air quality and subsequently in public health. The reduction of the air pollutant concentrations and the reported subsequent health benefits were more significant within the geographic areas affected by traffic related interventions. Among the various traffic related interventions, low emission zones appeared to be more effective in reducing ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter levels. Only few studies considered implications for health equity, three out of 15, and no consistent results were found indicating that these strategies could reduce health inequity associated with air pollution. Particulate matter (particularly fine particulate matter) and NO2 were the dominant outdoor air pollutants examined in the studies in Europe in recent years. Health benefits were gained either as a direct, intended objective or as a co-benefit from all of the strategies examined, but no consistent impact on health equity from the strategies was found. The strategy types aiming to control air pollution in Europe and the health impact assessment methodology were also discussed in this review.
Evaluating a Website to Teach Children Safety with Dogs: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Schwebel David , Li Peng , McClure Leslie , Severson Joan
Published: December 2016

Dog bites represent a significant threat to child health. Theory-driven interventions scalable for broad dissemination are sparse. A website was developed to teach children dog safety via increased knowledge, improved cognitive skills in relevant domains, and increased perception of vulnerability to bites. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 69 children aged 4–5 randomly assigned to use the dog safety website or a control transportation safety website for ~3 weeks. Assessment of dog safety knowledge and behavior plus skill in three relevant cognitive constructs (impulse control, noticing details, and perspective-taking) was conducted both at baseline and following website use. The dog safety website incorporated interactive games, instructional videos including testimonials, a motivational rewards system, and messaging to parents concerning child lessons. Our results showed that about two-thirds of the intervention sample was not adherent to website use at home, so both intent-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted. Intent-to-treat analyses yielded mostly null results. Per-protocol analyses suggested children compliant to the intervention protocol scored higher on knowledge and recognition of safe behavior with dogs following the intervention compared to the control group. Adherent children also had improved scores post-intervention on the cognitive skill of noticing details compared to the control group. We concluded that young children’s immature cognition can lead to dog bites. Interactive eHealth training on websites shows potential to teach children relevant cognitive and safety skills to reduce risk. Compliance to website use is a challenge, and some relevant cognitive skills (e.g., noticing details) may be more amenable to computer-based training than others (e.g., impulse control).
Rapid, Sensitive Detection of Bartonella quintana by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification of the groEL Gene
Authors: Hu Shoukui , Niu Lina , Luo Lijuan , Song Xiuping , Sun Jimin , Liu Qiyong
Published: December 2016

Trench fever, caused by Bartonella quintana, is recognized as a re-emerging and neglected disease. Rapid and sensitive detection approaches are urgently required to monitor and help control B. quintana infections. Here, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), which amplifies target DNA at a fixed temperature with high sensitivity, specificity and rapidity, was employed to detect B. quintana. Thirty-six strains, including 10 B. quintana, 13 other Bartonella spp., and 13 other common pathogens, were applied to verify and evaluate the LAMP assay. The specificity of the LAMP assay was 100%, and the limit of detection was 125 fg/reaction. The LAMP assay was compared with qPCR in the examination of 100 rhesus and 20 rhesus-feeder blood samples; the diagnostic accuracy was found to be 100% when LAMP was compared to qPCR, but the LAMP assay was significantly more sensitive (p < 0.05). Thus, LAMP methodology is a useful for diagnosis of trench fever in humans and primates, especially in low-resource settings, because of its rapid, sensitive detection that does not require sophisticated equipment.
Evidence of Bioactive Compounds from Vernonia polyanthes Leaves with Topical Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Authors: Rodrigues Kamilla , Chibli Lucas , Santos Bruna , Temponi Vanessa , Pinto Nícolas , Scio Elita , Del-Vechio-Vieira Glauciemar , Alves Maria , Sousa Orlando
Published: December 2016

Vernonia polyanthes Less. (Asteraceae), popularly known as “assa-peixe”, is a plant species used in Brazilian traditional medicine for the treatment of cutaneous damage, cicatrization, inflammation, and rheumatism. Based on these ethnopharmacological findings, the current study evaluated the topical anti-inflammatory effects of the hexane (HEVP) and ethyl acetate (EAEVP) extracts from V. polyanthes leaves in experimental models of skin inflammation. Chemical characterization was carried out by HPLC–UV/DAD analysis. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using Croton oil-, arachidonic acid (AA)-, phenol-, ethyl phenylpropiolate (EPP)-, and capsaicin-induced ear edema models in mice. Histopathological evaluation and measurements of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAG) enzymes were also performed. Rutin, luteolin, and apigenin were identified in EAEVP. Topically applied HEVP and EAEVP significantly (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) reduced edema induced by five different irritants at the doses tested (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/ear). Histopathological analysis revealed a reduction of edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and vasodilation. In addition, the enzymes activity (MPO and NAG) in the ear tissues was reduced by the topical treatment of HEVP and EAEVP (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 or p < 0.001). The results suggest that V. polyanthes leaves are effective against cutaneous damage, which support its traditional use and open up new possibilities for the treatment of skin disorders.
The Large Phenotypic Spectrum of Fabry Disease Requires Graduated Diagnosis and Personalized Therapy: A Meta-Analysis Can Help to Differentiate Missense Mutations
Authors: Citro Valentina , Cammisa Marco , Liguori Ludovica , Cimmaruta Chiara , Lukas Jan , Cubellis Maria , Andreotti Giuseppina
Published: December 2016

Fabry disease is caused by mutations in the GLA gene and is characterized by a large genotypic and phenotypic spectrum. Missense mutations pose a special problem for graduating diagnosis and choosing a cost-effective therapy. Some mutants retain enzymatic activity, but are less stable than the wild type protein. These mutants can be stabilized by small molecules which are defined as pharmacological chaperones. The first chaperone to reach clinical trial is 1-deoxygalactonojirimycin, but others have been tested in vitro. Residual activity of GLA mutants has been measured in the presence or absence of pharmacological chaperones by several authors. Data obtained from transfected cells correlate with those obtained in cells derived from patients, regardless of whether 1-deoxygalactonojirimycin was present or not. The extent to which missense mutations respond to 1-deoxygalactonojirimycin is variable and a reference table of the results obtained by independent groups that is provided with this paper can facilitate the choice of eligible patients. A review of other pharmacological chaperones is provided as well. Frequent mutations can have residual activity as low as one-fourth of normal enzyme in vitro. The reference table with residual activity of the mutants facilitates the identification of non-pathological variants.
High Intra- and Inter-Tumoral Heterogeneity of RAS Mutations in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jeantet Marion , Tougeron David , Tachon Gaelle , Cortes Ulrich , Archambaut Céline , Fromont Gaelle , Karayan-Tapon Lucie
Published: December 2016

Approximately 30% of patients with wild type RAS metastatic colorectal cancer are non-responders to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibodies (anti-EGFR mAbs), possibly due to undetected tumoral subclones harboring RAS mutations. The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of RAS mutations in different areas of the primary tumor, metastatic lymph nodes and distant metastasis. A retrospective cohort of 18 patients with a colorectal cancer (CRC) was included in the study. Multiregion analysis was performed in 60 spatially separated tumor areas according to the pathological tumor node metastasis (pTNM) staging and KRAS, NRAS and BRAF mutations were tested using pyrosequencing. In primary tumors, intra-tumoral heterogeneity for RAS mutation was found in 33% of cases. Inter-tumoral heterogeneity for RAS mutation between primary tumors and metastatic lymph nodes or distant metastasis was found in 36% of cases. Moreover, 28% of tumors had multiple RAS mutated subclones in the same tumor. A high proportion of CRCs presented intra- and/or inter-tumoral heterogeneity, which has relevant clinical implications for anti-EGFR mAbs prescription. These results suggest the need for multiple RAS testing in different parts of the same tumor and/or more sensitive techniques.
Functional Diversity of Neurotrophin Actions on the Oculomotor System
Authors: Benítez-Temiño Beatriz , Davis-López de Carrizosa María , Morcuende Sara , Matarredona Esperanza , De la Cruz Rosa , Pastor Angel
Published: December 2016

Neurotrophins play a principal role in neuronal survival and differentiation during development, but also in the maintenance of appropriate adult neuronal circuits and phenotypes. In the oculomotor system, we have demonstrated that neurotrophins are key regulators of developing and adult neuronal properties, but with peculiarities depending on each neurotrophin. For instance, the administration of NGF (nerve growth factor), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) or NT-3 (neurotrophin-3) protects neonatal extraocular motoneurons from cell death after axotomy, but only NGF and BDNF prevent the downregulation in ChAT (choline acetyltransferase). In the adult, in vivo recordings of axotomized extraocular motoneurons have demonstrated that the delivery of NGF, BDNF or NT-3 recovers different components of the firing discharge activity of these cells, with some particularities in the case of NGF. All neurotrophins have also synaptotrophic activity, although to different degrees. Accordingly, neurotrophins can restore the axotomy-induced alterations acting selectively on different properties of the motoneuron. In this review, we summarize these evidences and discuss them in the context of other motor systems.
Metabolomics and Its Application in the Development of Discovering Biomarkers for Osteoporosis Research
Authors: Lv Huanhuan , Jiang Feng , Guan Daogang , Lu Cheng , Guo Baosheng , Chan Chileung , Peng Songlin , Liu Baoqin , Guo Wenwei , Zhu Hailong , Xu Xuegong , Lu Aiping , Zhang Ge
Published: December 2016

Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fracture in later life. The incidence and costs associated with treating osteoporosis cause heavy socio-economic burden. Currently, the diagnosis of osteoporosis mainly depends on bone mineral density and bone turnover markers. However, these indexes are not sensitive and accurate enough to reflect the osteoporosis progression. Metabolomics offers the potential for a holistic approach for clinical diagnoses and treatment, as well as understanding of the pathological mechanism of osteoporosis. In this review, we firstly describe the study subjects of osteoporosis and bio-sample preparation procedures for different analytic purposes, followed by illustrating the biomarkers with potentially predictive, diagnosis and pharmaceutical values when applied in osteoporosis research. Then, we summarize the published metabolic pathways related to osteoporosis. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of chronological data and combination of multi-omics in fully understanding osteoporosis. The application of metabolomics in osteoporosis could provide researchers the opportunity to gain new insight into the metabolic profiling and pathophysiological mechanisms. However, there is still much to be done to validate the potential biomarkers responsible for the progression of osteoporosis and there are still many details needed to be further elucidated.
Peripheral Inflammatory Parameters in Late-Life Depression: A Systematic Review
Authors: Martínez-Cengotitabengoa Mónica , Carrascón Lucía , O’Brien John , Díaz-Gutiérrez María-José , Bermúdez-Ampudia Cristina , Sanada Kenji , Arrasate Marta , González-Pinto Ana
Published: December 2016

Depressive disorders appear relatively frequently in older patients, and therefore represent an important disease burden worldwide. Given the high levels of inflammatory parameters found in depressed elderly patients, the “inflammaging” hypothesis is gaining strength. In this systematic review, we summarize current evidence regarding the relationship between inflammatory parameters and late-life depression, with a unique focus on longitudinal studies to guarantee temporality. According to the data summarized in this review, the levels of some proinflammatory parameters—especially interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α—could serve as biomarkers for the future development of depressive symptoms in elderly patients. Proinflammatory cytokines seem to be associated with the future development of clinically significant depression, irrespective of baseline scores, thus indicating that inflammation temporally precedes and increases depression risk. As insufficient research has been conducted in this field, further prospective studies are clearly warranted.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Sulfonyl- and Iminophosphoryl-Functionalized Methanide and Methandiide
Authors: Feichtner Kai-Stephan , Gessner Viktoria
Published: December 2016

The synthesis of [H2C(PPh2=NSiMe3)(SO2Ph)] (1) and its mono- and dimetalation are reported. Due to the strong anion-stabilizing abilities of the iminophosphoryl and the sulfonyl group monometalation to 1-K and dimetalation to 1-Li2 proceed smoothly with potassium hydride and methyllithium, respectively. Both compounds could be isolated in high yields and were characterized by NMR spectroscopy as well as XRD analysis. The methanide 1-K forms a coordination polymer in the solid state, while in case of the methandiide a tetrameric structure is observed. The latter features an unusual structural motif consisting of two (SO2Li)2 eight-membered rings, which are connected with each other via the methandiide carbon atoms and additional lithium atoms. With increasing metalation a contraction of the P–C–S linkage is observed, which is well in line with the increased charge at the central carbon atom and involved electrostatic interactions.
Efficacy of Nitric Oxide Fumigation for Controlling Codling Moth in Apples
Authors: Liu Yong-Biao , Yang Xiangbing , Simmons Gregory
Published: December 2016

Nitric oxide (NO) fumigation under ultralow oxygen (ULO) conditions was studied for its efficacy in controlling codling moth and effects on postharvest quality of apples. NO fumigation was effective against eggs and larvae of different sizes on artificial diet in 48 h treatments. Small larvae were more susceptible to nitric oxide than other stages at 0.5% NO concentration. There were no significant differences among life stages at 1.0% to 2.0% NO concentrations. In 24 h treatments of eggs, 3.0% NO fumigation at 2 °C achieved 100% egg mortality. Two 24 h fumigation treatments of infested apples containing medium and large larvae with 3.0% and 5.0% NO resulted in 98% and 100% mortalities respectively. Sound apples were also fumigated with 5.0% NO for 24 h at 2 °C to determine effects on apple quality. The fumigation treatment was terminated by flushing with nitrogen and had no negative impact on postharvest quality of apples as measured by firmness and color at 2 and 4 weeks after fumigation. This study demonstrated that NO fumigation was effective against codling moth and safe to apple quality, and therefore has potential to become a practical alternative to methyl bromide fumigation for control of codling moth in apples.
Enhancement of Protein and Pigment Content in Two Chlorella Species Cultivated on Industrial Process Water
Authors: Safafar Hamed , Uldall Nørregaard Patrick , Ljubic Anita , Møller Per , Løvstad Holdt Susan , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: December 2016

Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Chlorella vulgaris were cultivated in pre-gasified industrial process water with high concentration of ammonia representing effluent from a local biogas plant. The study aimed to investigate the effects of growth media and cultivation duration on the nutritional composition of biomass. Variations in proteins, lipid, fatty acid composition, amino acids, tocopherols, and pigments were studied. Both species grew well in industrial process water. The contents of proteins were affected significantly by the growth media and cultivation duration. Microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa produced the highest concentrations of protein (65.2% ± 1.30% DW) while Chlorella vulgaris accumulated extremely high concentrations of lutein and chlorophylls (7.14 ± 0.66 mg/g DW and 32.4 ± 1.77 mg/g DW, respectively). Cultivation of Chlorella species in industrial process water is an environmentally friendly, sustainable bioremediation method with added value biomass production and resource valorization, since the resulting biomass also presented a good source of proteins, amino acids, and carotenoids for potential use in aquaculture feed industry.
Piecemeal Buildup of the Genetic Code, Ribosomes, and Genomes from Primordial tRNA Building Blocks
Authors: Caetano-Anollés Derek , Caetano-Anollés Gustavo
Published: December 2016

The origin of biomolecular machinery likely centered around an ancient and central molecule capable of interacting with emergent macromolecular complexity. tRNA is the oldest and most central nucleic acid molecule of the cell. Its co-evolutionary interactions with aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase protein enzymes define the specificities of the genetic code and those with the ribosome their accurate biosynthetic interpretation. Phylogenetic approaches that focus on molecular structure allow reconstruction of evolutionary timelines that describe the history of RNA and protein structural domains. Here we review phylogenomic analyses that reconstruct the early history of the synthetase enzymes and the ribosome, their interactions with RNA, and the inception of amino acid charging and codon specificities in tRNA that are responsible for the genetic code. We also trace the age of domains and tRNA onto ancient tRNA homologies that were recently identified in rRNA. Our findings reveal a timeline of recruitment of tRNA building blocks for the formation of a functional ribosome, which holds both the biocatalytic functions of protein biosynthesis and the ability to store genetic memory in primordial RNA genomic templates.
Performance of High Layer Thickness in Selective Laser Melting of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Shi Xuezhi , Ma Shuyuan , Liu Changmeng , Chen Cheng , Wu Qianru , Chen Xianping , Lu Jiping
Published: December 2016

To increase building rate and save cost, the selective laser melting (SLM) of Ti6Al4V with a high layer thickness (200 μm) and low cost coarse powders (53 μm–106 μm) at a laser power of 400 W is investigated in this preliminary study. A relatively large laser beam with a diameter of 200 μm is utilized to produce a stable melt pool at high layer thickness, and the appropriate scanning track, which has a smooth surface with a shallow contact angle, can be obtained at the scanning speeds from 40 mm/s to 80 mm/s. By adjusting the hatch spacings, the density of multi-layer samples can be up to 99.99%, which is much higher than that achieved in previous studies about high layer thickness selective laser melting. Meanwhile, the building rate can be up to 7.2 mm3/s, which is about 2 times–9 times that of the commercial equipment. Besides, two kinds of defects are observed: the large un-melted defects and the small spherical micropores. The formation of the un-melted defects is mainly attributed to the inappropriate overlap rates and the unstable scanning tracks, which can be eliminated by adjusting the processing parameters. Nevertheless, the micropores cannot be completely eliminated. It is worth noting that the high layer thickness plays a key role on surface roughness rather than tensile properties during the SLM process. Although a sample with a relatively coarse surface is generated, the average values of yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation are 1050 MPa, 1140 MPa, and 7.03%, respectively, which are not obviously different than those with the thin layer thickness used in previous research; this is due to the similar metallurgical bonding and microstructure.
Lipid Composition of Oil Extracted from Wasted Norway Lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) Heads and Comparison with Oil Extracted from Antarctic Krill (Euphasia superba)
Authors: Albalat Amaya , Nadler Lauren , Foo Nicholas , Dick James , Watts Andrew , Philp Heather , Neil Douglas , Monroig Oscar
Published: December 2016

In the UK, the Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) supports its most important shellfish fishery. Nephrops are sold either whole, or as “tails-only” for the scampi trade. In the “tailing” process, the “head” (cephalothorax) is discarded as waste. A smaller crustacean species, the Antarctic krill Euphasia superba, represents an economically valuable industry, as its extractable oil is sold as a human dietary supplement. The aim of this study was to determine the amount and composition of the oil contained in discarded Nephrops heads and to compare its composition to the oil extracted from krill. Differences due to Geographical variation and seasonal patterns in the amount and composition of lipid were also noted. Results indicated that Nephrops head waste samples collected from more southern locations in Scotland (Clyde Sea area) contained higher levels of oil when compared to samples collected from northern locations in Iceland. Moreover, seasonal differences within the Clyde Sea area in Scotland were also observed, with oil extracted from Nephrops head waste peaking at around 11.5% during the summer months when larger and more mature females were caught by trawl. At this time of the year, the valuable fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) accounted for around 23% of the total fatty acid content in oil extracted from Nephrops head waste. A seasonal effect on EPA content was found, with higher levels obtained in the summer, while no trend was found in DHA percentages. Finally, oil from Nephrops head waste contained a higher proportion of EPA and DHA than krill oil but these fatty acids were more abundantly linked to the neutral lipids rather to than polar lipids. The characterization of lipid that could be extracted from Nephrops head waste should be seen as a first step for the commercial use of a valuable resource currently wasted. This approach is extremely relevant given the current limited supply of EPA and DHA and changes in the Common Fisheries Policy.
Evolution of Mechanical Twinning during Cyclic Deformation of Mg-Zn-Ca Alloys
Authors: Vinogradov Alexei , Vasilev Evgeny , Linderov Mikhail , Merson Dmitry
Published: December 2016

The present study clarifies the complex interplay between mechanical twinning and dislocation slip during low-cycle fatigue testing of Mg-Zn-Ca alloys. Temporal details of these mechanisms are studied non-destructively by in situ monitoring of the acoustic emission (AE) response powered by a robust signal categorization. Through the analysis of AE time series, the kinetics of deformation twinning per cycle and the overall accumulation of twinning during cyclic loading is described and its effect on fatigue life is highlighted.
Detection of Volatile Metabolites Derived from Garlic (Allium sativum) in Human Urine
Authors: Scheffler Laura , Sauermann Yvonne , Heinlein Anja , Sharapa Constanze , Buettner Andrea
Published: December 2016

The metabolism and excretion of flavor constituents of garlic, a common plant used in flavoring foods and attributed with several health benefits, in humans is not fully understood. Likewise, the physiologically active principles of garlic have not been fully clarified to date. It is possible that not only the parent compounds present in garlic but also its metabolites are responsible for the specific physiological properties of garlic, including its influence on the characteristic body odor signature of humans after garlic consumption. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate potential garlic-derived metabolites in human urine. To this aim, 14 sets of urine samples were obtained from 12 volunteers, whereby each set comprised one sample that was collected prior to consumption of food-relevant concentrations of garlic, followed by five to eight subsequent samples after garlic consumption that covered a time interval of up to 26 h. The samples were analyzed chemo-analytically using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry (GC-MS/O), as well as sensorially by a trained human panel. The analyses revealed three different garlic-derived metabolites in urine, namely allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), allyl methyl sulfoxide (AMSO) and allyl methyl sulfone (AMSO2), confirming our previous findings on human milk metabolite composition. The excretion rates of these metabolites into urine were strongly time-dependent with distinct inter-individual differences. These findings indicate that the volatile odorant fraction of garlic is heavily biotransformed in humans, opening up a window into substance circulation within the human body with potential wider ramifications in view of physiological effects of this aromatic plant that is appreciated by humans in their daily diet.
Modeling Lactic Fermentation of Gowé Using Lactobacillus Starter Culture
Authors: De J. C. Munanga Bettencourt , Loiseau Gérard , Grabulos Joël , Mestres Christian
Published: December 2016

A global model of the lactic fermentation step of gowé was developed by assembling blocks hosting models for bacterial growth, lactic acid production, and the drop of pH during fermentation. Commercial strains of Lactobacillus brevis and of Lactobacillus plantarum were used; their growth was modeled using Rosso’s primary model and the gamma concept as a secondary model. The optimum values of pH and temperature were 8.3 ± 0.3, 44.6 ± 1.2 °C and 8.3 ± 0.3, 3.2 ± 37.1 °C with μmax values of 1.8 ± 0.2 and 1.4 ± 0.1 for L. brevis and L. plantarum respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration of undissociated lactic acid was 23.7 mM and 35.6 mM for L. brevis and L. plantarum, respectively. The yield of lactic acid was five times higher for L. plantarum than for L. brevis, with a yield of glucose conversion to lactic acid close to 2.0 for the former and 0.8 for the latter. A model was developed to predict the pH drop during gowé fermentation. The global model was partially validated during manufacturing of gowé. The global model could be a tool to aid in the choice of suitable starters and to determine the conditions for the use of the starter.
Experiences and Future Challenges of Bioleaching Research in South Korea
Authors: Borja Danilo , Nguyen Kim , Silva Rene , Park Jay , Gupta Vishal , Han Yosep , Lee Youngsoo , Kim Hyunjung
Published: December 2016

This article addresses the state of the art of bioleaching research published in South Korean Journals. Our research team reviewed the available articles registered in the Korean Citation Index (KCI, Korean Journal Database) addressing the relevant aspects of bioleaching. We systematically categorized the target metal sources as follows: mine tailings, electronic waste, mineral ores and metal concentrates, spent catalysts, contaminated soil, and other materials. Molecular studies were also addressed in this review. The classification provided in the present manuscript details information about microbial species, parameters of operation (e.g., temperature, particle size, pH, and process length), and target metals to compare recoveries among the bioleaching processes. The findings show an increasing interest in the technology from research institutes and mineral processing-related companies over the last decade. The current research trends demonstrate that investigations are mainly focused on determining the optimum parameters of operations for different techniques and minor applications at the industrial scale, which opens the opportunity for greater technological developments. An overview of bioleaching of each metal substrate and opportunities for future research development are also included.
Docetaxel-Loaded Self-Assembly Stearic Acid-Modified Bletilla striata Polysaccharide Micelles and Their Anticancer Effect: Preparation, Characterization, Cellular Uptake and In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Guan Qingxiang , Sun Dandan , Zhang Guangyuan , Sun Cheng , Wang Miao , Ji Danyang , Yang Wei
Published: December 2016

Poorly soluble drugs have low bioavailability after oral administration, thereby hindering effective drug delivery. A novel drug-delivery system of docetaxel (DTX)-based stearic acid (SA)-modified Bletilla striata polysaccharides (BSPs) copolymers was successfully developed. Particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and loading capacity (LC) were determined. The DTX release percentage in vitro was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The hemolysis and in vitro anticancer activity were studied. Cellular uptake and apoptotic rate were measured using flow cytometry assay. Particle size, zeta potential, EE and LC were 125.30 ± 1.89 nm, −26.92 ± 0.18 mV, 86.6% ± 0.17%, and 14.8% ± 0.13%, respectively. The anticancer activities of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles against HepG2, HeLa, SW480, and MCF-7 (83.7% ± 1.0%, 54.5% ± 4.2%, 48.5% ± 4.2%, and 59.8% ± 1.4%, respectively) were superior to that of docetaxel injection (39.2% ± 1.1%, 44.5% ± 5.3%, 38.5% ± 5.4%, and 49.8% ± 2.9%, respectively) at 0.5 μg/mL drug concentration. The DTX release percentage of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles and docetaxel injection were 66.93% ± 1.79% and 97.06% ± 1.56% in two days, respectively. Cellular uptake of DTX-FITC-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles in cells had a time-dependent relation. Apoptotic rate of DTX-SA-BSPs copolymer micelles and docetaxel injection were 73.48% and 69.64%, respectively. The SA-BSPs copolymer showed good hemocompatibility. Therefore, SA-BSPs copolymer can be used as a carrier for delivering hydrophobic drugs.
Catalytic Performance of a New 1D Cu(II) Coordination Polymer {Cu(NO3)(H2O)}(HTae)(4,4′-Bpy) for Knoevenagel Condensation
Authors: Larrea Edurne , Fernández de Luis Roberto , Arriortua María
Published: December 2016

The {Cu(NO3)(H2O)}(HTae)(4,4′-Bpy) (H2Tae = 1,1,2,2-tetraacetylethane, 4,4′-Bpy = 4,4′-Dipyridyl) 1D coordination polymer has been obtained by slow evaporation. The crystal structure consists of parallel and oblique {Cu(HTae)(4,4′-Bpy)} zig-zag metal–organic chains stacked along the [100] crystallographic direction. Copper(II) ions are in octahedral coordination environment linked to two nitrogen atoms of two bridging 4,4′-Bpy and to two oxygen atoms of one HTae molecule in the equatorial plane. The occupation of the axial positions varies from one copper atom to another, with different combinations of water molecules and nitrate anions, giving rise to a commensurate super-structure. By means of the thermal removal of water molecules, copper coordinatively unsaturated centres are obtained. These open metal sites could act as Lewis acid active sites in several heterogeneous catalytic reactions. The dehydrated compound, CuHTaeBpy_HT, has been tested as a heterogeneous recoverable catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation reactions. The catalyst is active and heterogeneous for the condensation of aldehydes with malononitrile at 60 °C using a molar ratio catalyst:substrate of 3 % and toluene as solvent. The catalyst suffers a partial loss of activity when reusing it, but can be reused at least four times.
Dr. Kenneth A. Jacobson: First Winner of the Tu Youyou Award, in Honor of the Co-Recipient of the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
Authors: McPhee Derek
Published: December 2016

On behalf of MDPI, the journal Molecules, its Editorial Board and the award selection committee, whose diligent work evaluating the more than 50 outstanding quality nominations received for the award is gratefully acknowledged, it is with great pleasure that I announce that the winner of the 2016 TU YOUYOU AWARD, sponsored by MDPI, is Dr. KENNETH A. JACOBSON, currently the Section Chief of the Molecular Recognition Section of the Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry (LBC) and Lab Chief of the LBC at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD, USA.[...]
Some Brief Notes on Theoretical and Experimental Investigations of Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Sobczyk Lucjan , Chudoba Dorota , Tolstoy Peter , Filarowski Aleksander
Published: December 2016

A review of selected literature data related to intramolecular hydrogen bonding in ortho-hydroxyaryl Schiff bases, ortho-hydroxyaryl ketones, ortho-hydroxyaryl amides, proton sponges and ortho-hydroxyaryl Mannich bases is presented. The paper reports on the application of experimental spectroscopic measurements (IR and NMR) and quantum-mechanical calculations for investigations of the proton transfer processes, the potential energy curves, tautomeric equilibrium, aromaticity etc. Finally, the equilibrium between the intra- and inter-molecular hydrogen bonds in amides is discussed.
The Assembly of DNA Amphiphiles at Liquid Crystal-Aqueous Interface
Authors: Zhou Jingsheng , Dong Yuanchen , Zhang Yiyang , Liu Dongsheng , Yang Zhongqiang
Published: December 2016

In this article, we synthesized a type of DNA amphiphiles (called DNA-lipids) and systematically studied its assembly behavior at the liquid crystal (LC)—aqueous interface. It turned out that the pure DNA-lipids at various concentrations cannot trigger the optical transition of liquid crystals from planar anchoring to homeotropic anchoring at the liquid crystal—aqueous interface. The co-assembly of DNA-lipid and l-dilauroyl phosphatidylcholine (l-DLPC) indicated that the DLPC assembled all over the LC-aqueous interface, and DNA-lipids prefer to couple with LC in certain areas, particularly in polarized and fluorescent image, forming micron sized net-like structures. The addition of DNA complementary to DNA-lipids forming double stranded DNA-lipids caused de-assembly of DNA-lipids from LC-aqueous interface, resulting in the disappearance of net-like structures, which can be visualized through polarized microscope. The optical changes combined with DNA unique designable property and specific interaction with wide range of target molecules, the DNA-lipids decorated LC-aqueous interface would provide a new platform for biological sensing and diagnosis.
Optimum Conditions for the Fabrication of Zein/Ag Composite Nanoparticles from Ethanol/H2O Co-Solvents Using Electrospinning
Authors: Yang Seong , Rabbani Mohammad , Ji Byung , Han Dong-Wook , Lee Joon , Kim Jong , Yeum Jeong
Published: December 2016

The optimum conditions for the fabrication of zein/Ag composite nanoparticles from ethanol/H2O cosolvents using electrospinning and the properties of the composite were investigated. The zein/Ag nanoparticles were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis. The antibacterial activity of the zein/Ag composite nanoparticles was also investigated. The XRD patterns and TEM images indicate the coexistence of a zein matrix and well-distributed Ag nanoparticles.