bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal Structure Evolution, Microstructure Formation, and Properties of Mechanically Alloyed Ultrafine-Grained Ti-Zr-Nb Alloys at 36≤Ti≤70 (at. %)
Authors: Marczewski Mateusz , Miklaszewski Andrzej , Maeder Xavier , Jurczyk Mieczyslaw
Published: January 2020

Titanium β-type alloys are preferred biomaterials for hard tissue replacements due to the low Young modulus and limitation of harmful aluminum and vanadium present in the commercially available Ti6Al4V alloy. The aim of this study was to develop a new ternary Ti-Zr-Nb system at 36≤Ti≤70 (at. %). The technical viability of preparing Ti-Zr-Nb alloys by high-energy ball-milling in a SPEX 8000 mill has been studied. These materials were prepared by the combination of mechanical alloying and powder metallurgy approach with cold powder compaction and sintering. Changes in the crystal structure as a function of the milling time were investigated using X-ray diffraction. Our study has shown that mechanical alloying supported by cold pressing and sintering at the temperature below α→β transus (600°C) can be applied to synthesize single-phase, ultrafine-grained, bulk Ti(β)-type Ti30Zr17Nb, Ti23Zr25Nb, Ti30Zr26Nb, Ti22Zr34Nb, and Ti30Zr34Nb alloys. Alloys with lower content of Zr and Nb need higher sintering temperatures to have them fully recrystallized. The properties of developed materials are also engrossing in terms of their biomedical use with Young modulus significantly lower than that of pure titanium.
Preparation and Self-Healing Properties of Clinker/PVP Microsphere in Cement Paste
Authors: Li Jun , Jiang Zhengwu , Li Wenting
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a new insight into the autolytic mineral self-healing method for cementitious materials. The clinker/PVP (polyvinyl pyrrolidone) autolytic microsphere was prepared via the film coating method with cement clinker as a healing agent and PVP as the autolytic coating film. The morphology and chemical structure of the microsphere were characterized by environmental scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. The clinker retaining original mineral healing composition was successfully coated with a PVP film confirmed by FTIR. The maximum film thickness was 7.54 μm, which was determined by laser particle size measurement. The autolytic behavior was measured using isothermal calorimetry and successfully controlled by pretreatment degree (i.e., silane coupling agent amount). Experimental results showed that the compressive strength recovery of cement paste with a 30% microsphere was 54% higher than ordinary cement paste specimens. The damage degree of the specimen was also decreased by adding the autolytic microsphere.
Mechanical Properties and Shrinkage Behavior of Concrete-Containing Graphene-Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Chen Zengshun , Xu Yemeng , Hua Jianmin , Wang Xu , Huang Lepeng , Zhou Xiao
Published: January 2020

Graphene oxide (GO) has been widely used as an additive due to its numerous unique properties. In this study, the compressive strength, flexural strength and elasticity modulus of concrete containing 0.02 wt%, 0.05 wt % and 0.08 wt % GO, and its dry shrinkage performance have been experimentally investigated. After the sample preparation, apparatus for compression test and flexural test were used to test the relevant properties of concrete containing GO. The dial indicators were used to measure the shrinkage of samples. The results indicate that GO can considerably improve the compressive strength, flexural strength, and elasticity modulus of concrete at the concrete age of 28 days by 4.04–12.65%, 3.8–7.38%, and 3.92–10.97%, respectively, which are substantially smaller than the increment at the age of 3 d by 5.02–21.51%, 4.25–13.06%, and 6.07–27.45% under a water-cement ratio of 0.35. It was also found that GO can increase the shrinkage strain of concrete. For example, at the age of 60 days, 0.02 wt%, 0.05 wt% and 0.08 wt% GO can increase the shrinkage strain of ordinary concrete by 1.99%, 5.79% and 7.45% respectively under a water-cement ratio of 0.49. The study has advanced our understanding on mechanical and shrinkage behavior of concrete containing GO.
Screening for Small Molecule Modulators of Trypanosoma brucei Hsp70 Chaperone Activity Based upon Alcyonarian Coral-Derived Natural Products
Authors: Andreassend Sarah K. , Bentley Stephen J. , Blatch Gregory L. , Boshoff Aileen , Keyzers Robert A.
Published: January 2020

The Trypanosoma brucei Hsp70/J-protein machinery plays an essential role in survival, differentiation, and pathogenesis of the protozoan parasite, and is an emerging target against African Trypanosomiasis. This study evaluated a set of small molecules, inspired by the malonganenones and nuttingins, as modulators of the chaperone activity of the cytosolic heat inducible T. brucei Hsp70 and constitutive TbHsp70.4 proteins. The compounds were assessed for cytotoxicity on both the bloodstream form of T. b. brucei parasites and a mammalian cell line. The compounds were then investigated for their modulatory effect on the aggregation suppression and ATPase activities of the TbHsp70 proteins. A structure–activity relationship for the malonganenone-class of alkaloids is proposed based upon these results.
Characterization of MK-40 Membrane Modified by Layers of Cation Exchange and Anion Exchange Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Titorova Valentina , Sabbatovskiy Konstantin , Sarapulova Veronika , Kirichenko Evgeniy , Sobolev Vladimir , Kirichenko Ksenia
Published: January 2020

Coating of ion exchange membranes used in electrodialysis with layers of polyelectrolytes is a proven approach that allows for the increasing of the limiting current, the suppressing of sedimentation, the controlling of the intensity of generation of H+ and OH− ions, and also the improving of monovalent selectivity. However, in the case when two materials with the opposite sign of the charge of fixed groups come in contact, a bipolar boundary is created that can cause undesirable changes in the membrane properties. In this work, we used a MK-40 heterogeneous membrane on the surface of which a layer of polyethyleneimine was applied by adsorption from a solution as a model of heterogeneous membranes modified with oppositely charged polyelectrolyte. It was found that, on one hand, the properties of modified membrane were beneficial for electrodialysis, its limiting current did not decrease and the membrane even acquired a barrier to non-selective electrolyte transport. At the same time, the generation of H+ and OH− ions of low intensity arose, even in underlimiting current modes. It was also shown that despite the presence of a layer of polyethyleneimine, the surface charge of the modified membrane remained negative, which we associate with low protonation of polyethyleneimine at neutral pH.
Evolution of Fretting Wear Behaviors and Mechanisms of 20CrMnTi Steel after Carburizing
Authors: Tang Jinchi , Hu Xiongfeng , Lai Fuqiang , Guo Xiaolong , Qu Shengguan , He Ruiliang , Qin Shunshun , Li Jianwen
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the fretting wear properties of 20CrMnTi steel, a common material for a rocker bracket, was discussed for the first time after it was suffered carburizing treatment. Subsequently, the fretting wear behaviors of virgin, quenched, and carburized states were studied. The effect of loads (corresponding to different engine power output) and reciprocating frequencies (corresponding to different engine speed) on wear behaviors and mechanisms of carburized specimen were further discussed. The results showed that the coefficient of friction (CoF) and wear volume loss (WVL) of the carburized specimens were significantly lower than that of virgin and quenched states. During the wear test, the surface CoF decreased gradually with the increase of applied load, while the linear correlation trend was not observed with the increase of fretting frequency as it showed an increase first and then a decrease. It was observed that the WVL increased gradually with the increase of load and frequency. With an increase of the load, the wear mechanism gradually deteriorated from the initial adhesive wear to the mixed wear mechanism. When the load was high, the oxidative wear became more severe. However, no significant effect of frequency was observed on the wear mechanism.
Defect Reduction and Quality Optimization by Modeling Plastic Deformation and Metallurgical Evolution in Ferritic Stainless Steels
Authors: Mancini Silvia , Langellotto Luigi , Di Nunzio Paolo Emilio , Zitelli Chiara , Di Schino Andrea
Published: January 2020

Manufacturing of ferritic stainless steels flat bars is an important industrial topic and the steel 1.4512 is one of the most commonly used grades for producing this component. In this paper, the origin of some edge defects occurring during hot rolling of flat bars of this grade is analyzed and thermomechanical and microstructural calculations have been carried out to enhance the quality of the finished products by reducing the jagged borders defect on hot rolled bars. An accurate investigation has been carried out by analyzing the defects on the final product from both the macroscopic and microstructural point of view through the implementation of thermomechanical and metallurgical models in a finite element (FE) MSC Marc commercial code. Coupled metallurgical and damage models have been implemented to investigate the microstructural evolution of ferritic grain size and material damaging. Three levels of prior ferritic grain size (PFGS) and three furnace discharge temperatures have been considered in the thermo-mechanical simulations of the roughing passes. Rheological laws for modeling the evolution of ferritic grain have been modified to describe the specific cases simulated. Results have shown that the defect is caused by processing conditions that trigger an anomalous heating which, in turn, induces an uncontrolled grain growth on the edges. The work-hardened and elongated grains do not recrystallize during hot deformation. Consequently, they tend to squeeze out the surrounding softer and recrystallized matrix towards the edges of the bar where the fractures that characterizes the surface defect occur.
Low-Cost Microfabrication Tool Box
Authors: Charmet Jérôme , Rodrigues Rui , Yildirim Ender , Challa Pavan Kumar , Roberts Benjamin , Dallmann Robert , Whulanza Yudan
Published: January 2020

Microsystems are key enabling technologies, with applications found in almost every industrial field, including in vitro diagnostic, energy harvesting, automotive, telecommunication, drug screening, etc. Microsystems, such as microsensors and actuators, are typically made up of components below 1000 microns in size that can be manufactured at low unit cost through mass-production. Yet, their development for commercial or educational purposes has typically been limited to specialized laboratories in upper-income countries due to the initial investment costs associated with the microfabrication equipment and processes. However, recent technological advances have enabled the development of low-cost microfabrication tools. In this paper, we describe a range of low-cost approaches and equipment (below £1000), developed or adapted and implemented in our laboratories. We describe processes including photolithography, micromilling, 3D printing, xurography and screen-printing used for the microfabrication of structural and functional materials. The processes that can be used to shape a range of materials with sub-millimetre feature sizes are demonstrated here in the context of lab-on-chips, but they can be adapted for other applications. We anticipate that this paper, which will enable researchers to build a low-cost microfabrication toolbox in a wide range of settings, will spark a new interest in microsystems.
Virulence Profiling and Molecular Typing of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC) from Human Sources in Brazil
Authors: Maria Ferreira Cavalcanti Adriene , Tavanelli Hernandes Rodrigo , Harummyy Takagi Elizabeth , Ernestina Cabílio Guth Beatriz , de Lima Ori Érica , Regina Schicariol Pinheiro Sandra , Sueli de Andrade Tânia , Louzada Oliveira Samara , Cecilia Cergole-Novella Maria , Rodrigues Francisco Gabriela , dos Santos Luís Fernando
Published: January 2020

Since no recent data characterizing Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) from human infections in Brazil are available, the present study aimed to investigate serotypes, stx genotypes, and accessory virulence genes, and also to perform pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) of 43 STEC strains recovered from 2007 to 2017. Twenty-one distinct serotypes were found, with serotype O111:H8 being the most common. However, serotypes less frequently reported in human diseases were also found and included a hybrid STEC/ETEC O100:H25 clone. The majority of the strains carried stx1a as the sole stx genotype and were positive for the eae gene. Regarding the occurrence of 28 additional virulence genes associated with plasmids and pathogenicity islands, a diversity of profiles was found especially among the eae-harboring strains, which had combinations of markers composed of up to 12 distinct genes. Although PFGE analysis demonstrated genetic diversity between serotypes such as O157:H7, O111:H8, O26:H11, O118:H16, and O123:H2, high genetic relatedness was found for strains of serotypes O24:H4 and O145:H34. MLST allowed the identification of 17 distinct sequence types (STs) with ST 16 and 21 being the most common ones. Thirty-five percent of the strains studied were not typeable by the currently used MLST approach, suggesting new STs. Although STEC O111:H8 remains the leading serotype in Brazil, a diversity of other serotypes, some carrying virulence genes and belonging to STs incriminated as causing severe disease, were found in this study. Further studies are needed to determine whether they have any epidemiological relevance.
Impact of Phosphorus Fertilization on Tomato Growth and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Communities
Authors: Higo Masao , Azuma Mirai , Kamiyoshihara Yusuke , Kanda Akari , Tatewaki Yuya , Isobe Katsunori
Published: January 2020

Understanding the impact of phosphorus (P) addition on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) is crucial to understanding tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) P nutrition. However, it remains unknown how P fertilization is associated with the structure of AMF communities on tomato plants. Thus, we investigated whether levels of P fertilizer interacted with the colonization and structure of AMF in tomato roots in a field trial. In this study, we established three different amounts of P fertilizer treatments (0 kg ha−1, 50 kg ha−1, and 100 kg ha−1). We investigated AMF root colonization and community structure, as well as plant growth in tomatoes at seven weeks following transplantation. The structure of the AMF communities in the roots of tomato were determined by MiSeq amplicon sequencing. As expected, P fertilizer input enhanced the P uptake and plant biomass. In contrast, the P fertilizer level did not affect the AMF root colonization and diversity or the structure of the AMF communities in the tomato. However, we found a negative correlation between AMF colonization and richness in the roots of the tomato plants. Therefore, we need to investigate whether and how AMF communities and P fertilization develop more effective P management for tomato plants.
Prenatal and Peripartum Exposure to Antibiotics and Cesarean Section Delivery Are Associated with Differences in Diversity and Composition of the Infant Meconium Microbiome
Authors: Wong Wendy S.W. , Sabu Priya , Deopujari Varsha , Levy Shira , Shah Ankit A. , Clemency Nicole , Provenzano Marina , Saadoon Reem , Munagala Akhil , Baker Robin , Baveja Rajiv , Mueller Noel T. , Dominguez-Bello Maria Gloria , Huddleston Kathi , Niederhuber John E. , Hourigan Suchitra K.
Published: January 2020

The meconium microbiome may provide insight into intrauterine and peripartum exposures and the very earliest intestinal pioneering microbes. Prenatal antibiotics have been associated with later obesity in children, which is thought to be driven by microbiome dependent mechanisms. However, there is little data regarding associations of prenatal or peripartum antibiotic exposure, with or without cesarean section (CS), with the features of the meconium microbiome. In this study, 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was performed on bacterial DNA of meconium samples from 105 infants in a birth cohort study. After multivariable adjustment, delivery mode (p = 0.044), prenatal antibiotic use (p = 0.005) and peripartum antibiotic use (p < 0.001) were associated with beta diversity of the infant meconium microbiome. CS (vs. vaginal delivery) and peripartum antibiotics were also associated with greater alpha diversity of the meconium microbiome (Shannon and Simpson, p < 0.05). Meconium from infants born by CS (vs. vaginal delivery) had lower relative abundance of the genus Escherichia (p < 0.001). Prenatal antibiotic use and peripartum antibiotic use (both in the overall analytic sample and when restricting to vaginally delivered infants) were associated with differential abundance of several bacterial taxa in the meconium. Bacterial taxa in the meconium microbiome were also differentially associated with infant excess weight at 12 months of age, however, sample size was limited for this comparison. In conclusion, prenatal and peripartum antibiotic use along with CS delivery were associated with differences in the diversity and composition of the meconium microbiome. Whether or not these differences in the meconium microbiome portend risk for long-term health outcomes warrants further exploration.
High Specific Activity of Radium Isotopes in Baryte from the Czech Part of the Upper Silesian Basin—An Example of Spontaneous Mine Water Treatment
Authors: Jirásek Jakub , Matýsek Dalibor , Alexa Petr , Osovský Michal , Uhlář Radim , Sivek Martin
Published: January 2020

Radium-bearing barytes (radiobarytes) have been known since the beginning of the 20th century. They are mainly found as precipitates of low-temperature hydrothermal solutions. In anthropogenic environments, they frequently occur as crusts on oil industry equipment used for borehole extraction, in leachates from uranium mill tailings, and as a by-product of phosphoric acid manufacturing. Recently, we recognized Ra-rich baryte as a precipitate in the water drainage system of a bituminous coal mine in the Czech part of the Upper Silesian Basin. The precipitate is a relatively pure baryte, with the empirical formula (Ba0.934Sr0.058Ca0.051Mg0.003)Σ1.046S0.985O4.000. The mean specific activity of 226Ra was investigated by the two-sample method and it equals 39.62(22) Bq/g, a level that exceeds known natural occurrences. The values for 228Ra and 224Ra are 23.39(26) Bq/g and 11.03(25) Bq/g. The radium content in the baryte is 1.071 ng/g. It is clear that the Ra-rich baryte results from the mixing of two different mine waters—brines rich in Ba, Sr, and isotopes 226Ra and 228Ra and waters that are affected by sulfide weathering in mine works. When this mixing occurs in surface watercourses, it could present a serious problem due to the half-life of 226Ra, which is 1600 years. If such mixing spontaneously happens in a mine, then the environmental risks will be much lower and will be, to a great, extent eliminated after the closure of the mine.
Distribution of Lanthanides, Yttrium, and Scandium in the Pilot-Scale Beneficiation of Fly Ashes Derived from Eastern Kentucky Coals
Authors: Hower James C. , Groppo John G. , Joshi Prakash , Preda Dorin V. , Gamliel David P. , Mohler Daniel T. , Wiseman John D. , Hopps Shelley D. , Morgan Tonya D. , Beers Todd , Schrock Michael
Published: January 2020

In this study, Central Appalachian coal-derived fly ashes from two power plants were beneficiated in a pilot-scale facility in order to produce a product with a relatively consistent concentration of rare earth elements (REE). The <200-mesh final fly ash product was produced by removing the carbon- and Fe-rich particles prior to screening at 200 mesh (75 µm). The Plant D fly ash had high concentrations of CaO and SO3, which were diminished through the two months when the ash was being beneficiated, representing a consequence of the heat, humidity, and excessive rainfall in the Kentucky summer. The high CaO and SO3 concentrations through the early runs likely contributed to the lower REE in the <200-mesh products of those runs. Of the non-REE minor elements, Ba, V, Mn, Zn, and As showed the greatest between-run variations within the runs for each plant. The overall REE concentrations proved to be similar, both on a between-run basis for the individual fly ash sources and on a between-plant basis. Variations in fly ash quality will occur in larger-scale operations, so on-going attention to the fly ash quality and the response of the fly ash to beneficiation is necessary. Changes in the Plant D fly ash with time imply that both the freshness of the original ash and the length and conditions of its storage at the site of beneficiation could be factors in the quality and consistency of the processed fly ash.
Comparison of Magma Oxygen Fugacity and Zircon Hf Isotopes between Xianglushan Tungsten-Bearing Granite and Late Yanshanian Granites in Jiangxi Province, South China
Authors: Li Xing-Yuan , Zhang Jing-Ru , Lai Chun-Kit
Published: January 2020

Jiangxi Province (South China) is one of the world’s top tungsten (W) mineral provinces. In this paper, we present a new LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb age and Hf isotope data on the W ore-related Xianglushan granite in northern Jiangxi Province. The magmatic zircon grains (with high Th/U values) yielded an early Cretaceous weighted mean U-Pb age of 125 ± 1 Ma (MSWD = 2.5, 2σ). Zircon εHf(t) values of the Xianglushan granite are higher (−6.9 to −4.1, avg. −5.4 ± 0.7) than those of the W ore-related Xihuanshan granite in southern Jiangxi Province (−14.9 to −11.2, avg. −12.5 ± 0.9), implying different sources between the W ore-forming magmas in the northern and southern Jiangxi Province. Compiling published zircon geochemical data, the oxygen fugacity (fO2) of the late Yanshanian granitic magmas in Jiangxi Province (the Xianglushan, Ehu, Dahutang, and Xihuashan plutons) were calculated by different interpolation methods. As opposed to the W ore-barren Ehu granitic magma, the low fO2 of the Xianglushan granitic magma may have caused W enrichment and mineralization, whilst high fO2 may have led to the coexistence of Cu and W mineralization in the Dahutang pluton. Additionally, our study suggests that the absence of late Mesozoic Cu-Mo mineralization in the Zhejiang, Jiangxi, and Anhui Provinces (Zhe-Gan-Wan region) was probably related to low fO2 magmatism in the Cretaceous.
Geochemical Study of Cretaceous Magmatic Rocks and Related Ores of the Hucunnan Cu–Mo Deposit: Implications for Petrogenesis and Poly-Metal Mineralization in the Tongling Ore-Cluster Region
Authors: Shi Ke , Yang Xiaoyong , Du Jianguo , Cao Jingya , Wan Qiu , Cai Yang
Published: January 2020

The Hucunnan porphyry- and skarn-type Cu–Mo deposit is located in the south of the central Shizishan ore field of the Tongling ore-cluster region. The intrusive Hucunnan granodiorite, outcropping in this deposit, has adakitic geochemical features, and its magma is proposed to have originated from partial melting of the oceanic crust mixed with mantle-derived materials. The porphyry-type orebody is hosted in the granodiorite, whereas the skarn-type orebody occurs in the contact zones of intrusions and country rocks. The δ34S values of pyrite from the skarn orebodies ranged from +3.9 to +4.7‰ (avg. +4.3‰, n = 6), while those of the porphyry orebodies ranged from +5.1 to +6.2‰ (avg. +5.6‰, n = 4). 208Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 206Pb/204Pb ratios of the pyrites from the skarn orebodies were 38.04–38.45 (avg. 38.26), 15.55–15.66 (avg. 15.59), and 18.16–18.54 (avg. 18.44), respectively (n = 6). The pyrites in the porphyry orebodies had 208Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 206Pb/204Pb ratios of 38.24–38.36, 15.51–15.662, and 18.10–18.41, respectively (avg. 38.32, 15.58, 18.22; n = 4), respectively. The metallogenic model ages from Re–Os isotopic dating were 138.7 ± 1.9 and 140.0 ± 2.8 Ma, respectively. Geochemical data indicate that the ore-forming fluids in the skarn stage are characterized by high temperature, low acidity, and high oxygen fugacity, and the ore-forming materials were mainly from magma and partly from stratum, proving that the skarn orebody has more stratum materials than the porphyry orebody.
Adduct under Field—A Qualitative Approach to Account for Solvent Effect on Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Shenderovich Ilya G. , Denisov Gleb S.
Published: January 2020

The location of a mobile proton in acid-base complexes in aprotic solvents can be predicted using a simplified Adduct under Field (AuF) approach, where solute–solvent effects on the geometry of hydrogen bond are simulated using a fictitious external electric field. The parameters of the field have been estimated using experimental data on acid-base complexes in CDF3/CDClF2. With some limitations, they can be applied to the chemically similar CHCl3 and CH2Cl2. The obtained data indicate that the solute–solvent effects are critically important regardless of the type of complexes. The temperature dependences of the strength and fluctuation rate of the field explain the behavior of experimentally measured parameters.
Poly (Vinyl Butyral-Co-Vinyl Alcohol-Co-Vinyl Acetate) Coating Performance on Copper Corrosion in Saline Environment
Authors: Samide Adriana , Merisanu Claudia , Tutunaru Bogdan , Iacobescu Gabriela Eugenia
Published: January 2020

Poly (vinyl butyral-co-vinyl alcohol-co-vinyl acetate) named further PVBA was investigated as a protective coating for copper corrosion in 0.9% NaCl solution using electrochemical measurements such as, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization associated with atomic force microscopy (AFM). The PVBA coating on the copper surface (Cu-PVBA) was modeled in methanol containing PVBA. Its inhibitory properties against corrosion was comparatively discussed with those of the copper sample treated in methanol without polymer (Cu-Me) and of untreated sample (standard copper). A protective performance of PVBA coating of 80% was computed from electrochemical measurements, for copper corrosion in NaCl solution. Moreover, AFM images designed a specific surface morphology of coated surface with PVBA, clearly highlighting a polymer film adsorbed on the copper surface, which presents certain deterioration after corrosion, but the metal surface was not significantly affected compared to those of untreated samples or treated in methanol, in the absence of PVBA.
Fatty Acids, Volatile and Sensory Profile of Multigrain Biscuits Enriched with Spent Malt Rootles
Authors: Chiş Maria Simona , Pop Anamaria , Păucean Adriana , Socaci Sonia Ancuța , Alexa Ersilia , Man Simona Maria , Bota Monica , Muste Sevastiţa
Published: January 2020

Spent malt rootlets, a by-product of the brewing industry, are a rich source of protein, essential amino acids, healthy fats, polyphenols and minerals, and could be a new promising type of raw material from the nutritional, economic, sensory, and technical perspectives. However, their specific aroma profile could limit their addition in baked products. The aim of this work was to study the effect of spent malt rootlets addition on volatile derivatives of enriched biscuits in relation to their sensory profile. For this purpose, spent malt rootlets and enriched biscuits (0–25% spent malt rootlets added) were analyzed by GC-MS techniques, in order to obtain their fatty acids methyl esters and volatile compounds profile, while for the sensory analysis a nine-point hedonic score test was used. The results of this study reveal the fatty acids and volatile profile of spent malt rootlets and of the enriched biscuits with spent malt rootlets pointing out the contribution of fatty acids to the generation of aroma compounds. The influence of different aroma compounds on the consumer’s preferences was studied and the optimum level addition of spent malt rootlets in multigrain biscuits was found to be 15%.
Characterization of Crystal Microstructure Based on Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) Technique
Authors: Wang Hongfan , Xu Jinjiang , Sun Shanhu , Liu Yanru , Zhu Chunhua , Li Jie , Sun Jie , Wang Shumin , Zhang Haobin
Published: January 2020

Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is an effective method to obtain microstructural information of materials. However, due to the influence of crystal surface effects, SAXS has a deviation in the characterization of the crystal microstructure. In order to solve the influence of crystal surface effect on the internal defect signal, the microstructure of Octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) crystal was characterized by soaking the sample in the matching solution. We found that the absolute scattering intensity, specific surface and volume fraction of the sample in the matching solution are significantly lower than the initial sample, which solves the influence of the crystal surface effect on the test results. Comparing the scattering results of the samples in different electron density matching solutions, it was found that the best result was obtained when using GPL-107 perfluoropolyether (PFPE) matching solution and the same law was obtained by controlling the experiment with 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) crystal. The fitting density was calculated according to the theoretical density and void volume fraction of the sample, and the calculated results are close to the test results of Particle Density Distribution Analyzer (PDDA). Based on this paper, we provide a method to obtain the correct information of crystal microstructure.
Haemostatic Nanoparticles-Derived Bioactivity of from Selaginella tamariscina Carbonisata
Authors: Zhao Yusheng , Zhang Yue , Kong Hui , Zhang Meiling , Cheng Jinjun , Luo Juan , Zhao Yan , Qu Huihua
Published: January 2020

High-temperature carbonisation is used to prepare many traditional Chinese medicine charcoal drugs, but the bioactive haemostatic substances of these medicines and their mechanisms are still unknown. This study developed and evaluated nanoparticles (NPs) derived from Selaginella pulvinate Carbonisata (STC) for the first time. The haemostatic effect of STC-NPs prepared at 300, 350, and 400 °C were investigated in mouse tail amputation and liver scratch experiments. STC-NPs obtained at 400 °C had the strongest haemostatic effect, and were accordingly characterised by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. STC-NPs averaged 1.4–2.8 nm and exhibited a quantum yield of 6.06% at a maximum excitation wavelength of 332 nm and emission at 432 nm. STC-NPs displayed low toxicity against mouse monocyte macrophage RAW 264.7 cells by CCK-8 assay, and STC-NP treatment significantly shortened bleeding time in rat and mouse models. Coagulation assays showed that the haemostatic effects of STC-NPs were related to improving the fibrinogen and platelet contents, as well as decreasing the prothrombin time that resulted from stimulating extrinsic blood coagulation and activating the fibrinogen system. The STC-NPs had remarkable haemostatic effects in the tail amputation and liver scratch models; these effects may be associated with the exogenous coagulation pathway and activation of the brinogen system, according to the evaluation of the mouse coagulation parameters. This novel evaluation supports the material basis of STC use in traditional Chinese medicine, and this article is worthy of study by authors of clinical pharmacy.
Ferrocenyl Phosphorhydrazone Dendrimers Synthesis, and Electrochemical and Catalytic Properties
Authors: Turrin Cédric-Olivier , Manoury Eric , Caminade Anne-Marie
Published: January 2020

The discovery of ferrocene is often associated with the rapid growth of organometallic chemistry. Dendrimers are highly branched macromolecules that can be functionalized at will at all levels of their structure. The functionalization of dendrimers with ferrocene derivatives can be carried out easily as terminal functions on the surface, but also at the core, or at one or several layers inside the structure. This review will focus on phosphorhydrazone dendrimers functionalized with ferrocene derivatives, on the surface, at the core, at all layers or within a single layer inside the structure. The first part will describe the synthesis; the second part will concern the electrochemical properties; and the last part will give several examples concerning catalysis, with complexes of ferrocenyl phosphines used as terminal functions of dendrimers.
A Many-Faced Alkaloid: Polymorphism of (–)-Monophyllidin
Authors: Dank Christian , Wurzer Richard , Felsinger Susanne , Bugl Ricarda , Kählig Hanspeter , Hela Wolfgang , Roller Alexander , Gstach Hubert
Published: January 2020

The synthesis of the alkaloid (–)-monophyllidin is described. The molecule is a hybrid of xanthoxyline and (S)-proline, accessible in one-step through a Mannich reaction. In the solid-state, defined structural arrangements with different physical properties are formed. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed structures of six distinct polymorphs. In the crystalline state, the alkaloid can host small polar molecules (preferably water), while the (S)-proline moiety is present in the zwitterionic state. Combined with the chelate, which is already present in the xanthoxyline substructure, an ideal disposition for multiple hydrogen bond networks evolve. Therefore, highly water-soluble polymorphs of monophyllidin can form. This structural flexibility explains the many faces of the molecule in terms of structure as well as analytical data. Furthermore, speculations about the biological role of the molecule, with regard to the manifold interactions with water, are presented.
Microglial Phenotypes and Their Relationship to the Cannabinoid System: Therapeutic Implications for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kelly Rachel , Joers Valerie , Tansey Malú G. , McKernan Declan P. , Dowd Eilís
Published: January 2020

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder, the motor symptoms of which are associated classically with Lewy body formation and nigrostriatal degeneration. Neuroinflammation has been implicated in the progression of this disease, by which microglia become chronically activated in response to α-synuclein pathology and dying neurons, thereby acquiring dishomeostatic phenotypes that are cytotoxic and can cause further neuronal death. Microglia have a functional endocannabinoid signaling system, expressing the cannabinoid receptors in addition to being capable of synthesizing and degrading endocannabinoids. Alterations in the cannabinoid system—particularly an upregulation in the immunomodulatory CB2 receptor—have been demonstrated to be related to the microglial activation state and hence the microglial phenotype. This paper will review studies that examine the relationship between the cannabinoid system and microglial activation, and how this association could be manipulated for therapeutic benefit in Parkinson’s disease.
Neo-Aplysiatoxin A Isolated from Okinawan Cyanobacterium Moorea Producens
Authors: Kawaguchi Mioko , Satake Masayuki , Zhang Bo-Tao , Xiao Yue-Yun , Fukuoka Masayuki , Uchida Hajime , Nagai Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

A new aplysiatoxin derivative, neo-aplysiatoxin A (1), along with seven known compounds, neo-debromoaplysiatoxin A (2), dolastatin 3 (3), lyngbic acid (4), malyngamide M (5), hermitamide A (6), (−)-loliolide (7), and (+)-epiloliolide (8), was isolated from the Okinawan cyanobacterium Moorea producens. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data, including high-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. The compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic and diatom growth inhibition activities.
Triterpenoid Saponin and Lignan Glycosides from the Traditional Medicine Elaeagnus angustifolia Flowers and Their Cytotoxic Activities
Authors: Han Jianxin , Chen Xiaoyu , Liu Wei , Cui Hao , Yuan Tao
Published: January 2020

A new triterpenoid saponin, named terpengustifol A (1), and two new lignan glucosides, phengustifols A and B (2 and 3), were isolated from the flowers of Elaeagnus angustifolia. Their structures were determined by the extensive analysis of the spectroscopic data (including NMR and HRMS) and ECD calculations. Compound 1 possesses an unusual monoterpene (Z)-6-hydroxy-2,6-dimethylocta-2,7-dienoyl unit at C-21. Compounds 2 and 3 are a pair of diastereoisomers, while their aglycones are a pair of enantiomers. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited moderate cytotoxic activities against A375 cell lines with IC50 values at 12.1 and 15.6 μM, respectively. This is firstly reported the triterpenoid saponin and lignans isolated from the Elaeagnus angustifolia flowers.
Evaluation of a 68Ga-Labeled DOTA-Tetrazine as a PET Alternative to 111In-SPECT Pretargeted Imaging
Authors: Edem Patricia E. , Jørgensen Jesper T. , Nørregaard Kamilla , Rossin Rafaella , Yazdani Abdolreza , Valliant John F. , Robillard Marc , Herth Matthias M. , Kjaer Andreas
Published: January 2020

The bioorthogonal reaction between a tetrazine and strained trans-cyclooctene (TCO) has garnered success in pretargeted imaging. This reaction was first validated in nuclear imaging using an 111In-labeled 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)-linked bispyridyl tetrazine (Tz) ([111In]In-DOTA-PEG11-Tz) and a TCO functionalized CC49 antibody. Given the initial success of this Tz, it has been paired with TCO functionalized small molecules, diabodies, and affibodies for in vivo pretargeted studies. Furthermore, the single photon emission tomography (SPECT) radionuclide, 111In, has been replaced with the β-emitter, 177Lu and α-emitter, 212Pb, both yielding the opportunity for targeted radiotherapy. Despite use of the ‘universal chelator’, DOTA, there is yet to be an analogue suitable for positron emission tomography (PET) using a widely available radionuclide. Here, a 68Ga-labeled variant ([68Ga]Ga-DOTA-PEG11-Tz) was developed and evaluated using two different in vivo pretargeting systems (Aln-TCO and TCO-CC49). Small animal imaging and ex vivo biodistribution studies were performed and revealed target specific uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-PEG11-Tz in the bone (3.7 %ID/g, knee) in mice pretreated with Aln-TCO and tumor specific uptake (5.8 %ID/g) with TCO-CC49 in mice bearing LS174 xenografts. Given the results of this study, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-PEG11-Tz can serve as an alternative to [111In]In-DOTA-PEG11-Tz.
Synthesis and Antileishmanial Activity of 1,2,4,5-Tetraoxanes against Leishmania donovani
Authors: Cabral Lília I. L. , Pomel Sébastien , Cojean Sandrine , Amado Patrícia S. M. , Loiseau Philippe M. , Cristiano Maria L. S.
Published: January 2020

A chemically diverse range of novel tetraoxanes was synthesized and evaluated in vitro against intramacrophage amastigote forms of Leishmania donovani. All 15 tested tetraoxanes displayed activity, with IC50 values ranging from 2 to 45 µm. The most active tetraoxane, compound LC140, exhibited an IC50 value of 2.52 ± 0.65 µm on L. donovani intramacrophage amastigotes, with a selectivity index of 13.5. This compound reduced the liver parasite burden of L. donovani-infected mice by 37% after an intraperitoneal treatment at 10 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days, whereas miltefosine, an antileishmanial drug in use, reduced it by 66%. These results provide a relevant basis for the development of further tetraoxanes as effective, safe, and cheap drugs against leishmaniasis.
Comparison on Reduction of VOCs Emissions from Radiata Pine (Pinus Radiata D. Don) between Sodium Bicarbonate and Ozone Treatments
Authors: Qin Ye , Qi Fei , Wang Zhiping , Cheng Xianbao , Li Botao , Huang Anmin , Liu Ru
Published: January 2020

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in wood furniture are an important factor that affects indoor air quality. In this study, radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) was treated with sodium bicarbonate and ozone aqueous solution to reduce the VOC contents without sacrificing mechanical properties. The VOCs of radiata pine were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the functional group changes of wood samples were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that the main VOCs of radiata pine include alkenes, aldehydes, and esters. The sodium bicarbonate and ozone treatments almost eliminated the VOC contents of radiata pine. The two treatments mentioned above had little effect on compressive strength and surface color of radiata pine.
Environmental Durability Enhancement of Natural Fibres Using Plastination: A Feasibility Investigation on Bamboo
Authors: K. Dhir Daanvir , Rashidi Armin , Bogyo Grant , Ryde Ron , Pakpour Sepideh , S. Milani Abbas
Published: January 2020

Natural fibers are gaining wide attention due to their much lower carbon footprint and economic factors compared to synthetic fibers. The moisture affinity of these lignocellulosic fibres, however, is still one of the main challenges when using them, e.g., for outdoor applications, leading to fast degradation rates. Plastination is a technique originally used for the preservation of human and animal body organs for many years, by replacing the water and fat present in the tissues with a polymer. This article investigates the feasibility of adapting such plastination to bamboo natural fibres using the S-10 room-temperature technique in order to hinder their moisture absorption ability. The effect of plastination on the mechanical properties and residual moisture content of the bamboo natural fibre samples was evaluated. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) were employed to characterize the chemical composition and 3-dimensional morphology of the plastinated specimens. The results clearly show that, as plastination lessens the hydrophilic tendency of the bamboo fibres, it also decreases the residual moisture content and increases the tensile strength and stiffness of the fibers.
OcUGT1-Catalyzing Glycodiversification of Steroids through Glucosylation and Transglucosylation Actions
Authors: Xu Yan-Li , Kong Jian-Qiang
Published: January 2020

Steroidal glycosides are important sources of innovative drugs. The increased diversification of steroidal glycosides will expand the probability of discovering active molecules. It is an efficient approach to diversify steroidal glycosides by using steroidal glycosyltransferases. OcUGT1, a uridine diphosphate-d-glucose (UDP-Glc)-dependent glycosyltransferase from Ornithogalum caudatum, is a multifunctional enzyme, and its glycodiversification potential towards steroids has never been fully explored. Herein, the glycodiversification capability of OcUGT1 towards 25 steroids through glucosylation and transglucosylation reactions were explored. Firstly, each of 25 compounds was glucosylated with UDP-Glc. Under the action of OcUGT1, five steroids (testosterone, deoxycorticosterone, hydrocortisone, estradiol, and 4-androstenediol) were glucosylated to form corresponding mono-glucosides and biosides. Next, OcUGT1-mediated transglucosylation activity of these compounds with another sugar donor ortho-nitrophenyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (oNPGlc) was investigated. Results revealed that the same five steroids could be glucosylated to generate mono-glucosides and biosides by OcUGT1 through transglucosylation reactions. These data indicated that OcUGT1-assisted glycodiversification of steroids could be achieved through glucosylation and transglucosylation reactions. These results provide a way to diversify steroidal glycosides, which lays the foundation for the increase of the probability of obtaining active lead compounds.
Cytotoxic Action of Artemisinin and Scopoletin on Planktonic Forms and on Biofilms of Candida Species
Authors: Das Sourav , Czuni Lilla , Báló Viktória , Papp Gábor , Gazdag Zoltán , Papp Nóra , Kőszegi Tamás
Published: January 2020

We investigated the antifungal activities of purified plant metabolites artemisinin (Ar) and scopoletin (Sc) including inhibition, effects on metabolic activities, viability, and oxidative stress on planktonic forms and on preformed biofilms of seven Candida species. The characteristic minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90) of Ar and Sc against Candida species ranged from 21.83–142.1 µg/mL and 67.22–119.4 µg/mL, respectively. Drug concentrations causing ≈10% CFU decrease within 60 min of treatments were also determined (minimum effective concentration, MEC10) using 100-fold higher CFUs than in the case of MIC90 studies. Cytotoxic effects on planktonic and on mature biofilms of Candida species at MEC10 concentrations were further evaluated with fluorescent live/dead discrimination techniques. Candida glabrata, Candida guilliermondii, and Candida parapsilosis were the species most sensitive to Ar and Sc. Ar and Sc were also found to promote the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) by increasing oxidative stress at their respective MEC10 concentrations against the tested planktonic Candida species. Ar and Sc possess dose-dependent antifungal action but the underlying mechanism type (fungistatic and fungicidal) is not clear yet. Our data suggest that Ar and Sc found in herbal plants might have potential usage in the fight against Candida biofilms.
Dissipation of Emamectin Benzoate Residues in Rice and Rice-Growing Environments
Authors: Deng Ligang , Chen Lu , Guan Shuai , Liu Junhua , Liang Jingyun , Li Xia , Li Zengmei
Published: January 2020

The experiment developed the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS) method for testing emamectin benzoate, and studied the metabolism of emamectin benzoate in rice plants and rice-growing environments via application of this testing method. The dissipation curve of emamectin benzoate standard substance was good at 0.5–200 μg L−1, and its correlation coefficient was greater than 0.99. In the concentration range of 0.1–50 μg kg−1, the average recovery rate of plants, soil, and field water was 82 %–102 %, and relative standard deviation (RSD) was between 0.3 % and 15.9 %. Half-lives in rice plants and soil were 0.8–2.8 days and 1.9–3.8 days, respectively, and emamectin benzoate was not detected in rice or rice hull. The experiment showed that emamectin benzoate is harmless to human health at the concentration recommended by the manufacturer.