bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Source of 3D Chitin Scaffolds: The Red Sea Demosponge Pseudoceratina arabica (Pseudoceratinidae, Verongiida)
Authors: Shaala Lamiaa A. , Asfour Hani Z. , Youssef Diaa T. A. , Żółtowska-Aksamitowska Sonia , Wysokowski Marcin , Tsurkan Mikhail , Galli Roberta , Meissner Heike , Petrenko Iaroslav , Tabachnick Konstantin , Ivanenko Viatcheslav N. , Bechmann Nicole , Muzychka Lyubov V. , Smolii Oleg B. , Martinović Rajko , Joseph Yvonne , Jesionowski Teofil , Ehrlich Hermann
Published: February 2019

The bioactive bromotyrosine-derived alkaloids and unique morphologically-defined fibrous skeleton of chitin origin have been found recently in marine demosponges of the order Verongiida. The sophisticated three-dimensional (3D) structure of skeletal chitinous scaffolds supported their use in biomedicine, tissue engineering as well as in diverse modern technologies. The goal of this study was the screening of new species of the order Verongiida to find another renewable source of naturally prefabricated 3D chitinous scaffolds. Special attention was paid to demosponge species, which could be farmed on large scale using marine aquaculture methods. In this study, the demosponge Pseudoceratina arabica collected in the coastal waters of the Egyptian Red Sea was examined as a potential source of chitin for the first time. Various bioanalytical tools including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fluorescence microscopy, FTIR analysis, Calcofluor white staining, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), as well as a chitinase digestion assay were successfully used to confirm the discovery of α-chitin within the skeleton of P. arabica. The current finding should make an important contribution to the field of application of this verongiid sponge as a novel renewable source of biologically-active metabolites and chitin, which are important for development of the blue biotechnology especially in marine oriented biomedicine.
A Brief Review on the Resistance-in-Series Model in Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs)
Authors: Di Bella Gaetano , Di Trapani Daniele
Published: February 2019

The cake layer deposited on the membrane modules of membrane bioreactors (MBRs), especially under a submerged configuration, represents a relevant and fundamental mechanism deeply influencing the development of membrane fouling. It negatively affects the total resistance to filtration, while exerting a positive effect as a “pre-filter” promoting the “dynamic membrane” that protects the physical membrane from internal fouling. These two opposite phenomena should be properly managed, where the submerged membranes are usually subjected to a periodical cake layer removal through ordinary (permeate backwashing and air scouring) and/or irregular cleaning actions (manual physical cleaning). In this context, the physical removal of the cake layer is needed to maintain the design filtration characteristics. Nevertheless, the proper evaluation of the effect of physical cleaning operations is still contradictory and under discussion, referring in particular to the correct evaluation of fouling mechanisms. The aim of the present work was to summarize the different aspects that influence the fouling investigations, based on simple models for the evaluation of the resistance to filtration due to the cake layer, through physical cleaning operations.
Dislocation Mechanics Pile-Up and Thermal Activation Roles in Metal Plasticity and Fracturing
Authors: Armstrong Ronald W.
Published: February 2019

Dislocation pile-up and thermal activation influences on the deformation and fracturing behaviors of polycrystalline metals are briefly reviewed, as examples of dislocation mechanics applications to understanding mechanical properties. To start, a reciprocal square root of grain size dependence was demonstrated for historical hardness measurements reported for cartridge brass, in line with a similar Hall-Petch grain size characterization of stress-strain measurements made on conventional grain size and nano-polycrystalline copper, nickel, and aluminum materials. Additional influences of loading rate (and temperature) were shown to be included in a dislocation model thermal activation basis, for calculated deformation shapes of impacted solid cylinders of copper and Armco iron materials. Connection was established for such grain size, temperature, and strain rate influences on the brittle fracturing transition exhibited by steel and other related metals. Lastly, for AISI 1040 steel material, a fracture mechanics based failure stress dependence on the inverse square root of crack size was shown to approach the yield stress at a very small crack size, also in line with a Hall-Petch dependence of the stress intensity on polycrystal grain size.
Classification and Quantitative Evaluation of Eddy Current Based on Kernel-PCA and ELM for Defects in Metal Component
Authors: Deng Weiquan , Ye Bo , Bao Jun , Huang Guoyong , Wu Jiande
Published: February 2019

Eddy current testing technology is widely used in the defect detection of metal components and the integrity evaluation of critical components. However, at present, the evaluation and analysis of defect signals are still mostly based on artificial evaluation. Therefore, the evaluation of defects is often subjectively affected by human factors, which may lead to a lack in objectivity, accuracy, and reliability. In this paper, the feature extraction of non-linear signals is carried out. First, using the kernel-based principal component analysis (KPCA) algorithm. Secondly, based on the feature vectors of defects, the classification of an extreme learning machine (ELM) for different defects is studied. Compared with traditional classifiers, such as artificial neural network (ANN) and support vector machine (SVM), the accuracy and rapidity of ELM are more advantageous. Based on the accurate classification of defects, the linear least-squares fitting is used to further quantitatively evaluate the defects. Finally, the experimental results have verified the effectiveness of the proposed method, which involves automatic defect classification and quantitative analysis.
Age-Induced Precipitation and Hardening Behavior of Ni3Al Intermetallic Alloys Containing Vanadium
Authors: Semboshi Satoshi , Sasaki Ryosuke , Kaneno Yasuyuki , Takasugi Takayuki
Published: February 2019

L12-type Ni3Al alloys containing vanadium are potential candidates for solid-solution and age-hardenable alloy systems, according to the Ni3Al-Ni3V pseudo-binary phase diagram. Therefore, herein, variations in the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ni-13 at.% Al-12 at.% V-50 ppm B alloy during isothermal aging were investigated. Alloy specimens were solution-treated at 1323 K for 48 h, quenched in water, and aged at 1073 K to 1173 K. The quenched specimens exhibited a single phase of Ni3Al (L12 structure derived from Al (fcc) structure), while in the aged specimens, numerous fine disk-shaped precipitates identified as Ni3V (D022 structure from orthorhombic structure) were formed on {001} planes of the Ni3Al matrix. The size of the disk-shaped Ni3V precipitates increased gradually with increasing aging period. The hardness and strength of the specimens increased initially during aging at 1073 K to 1173 K, reached a maximum, followed by a subsequent decrease. The age-hardening behavior observed for the specimens can be explained in terms of precipitation of the fine disk-shaped Ni3V precipitates in the Ni3Al matrix. Furthermore, the peak-aged specimens exhibited an increase in yield strength with increasing testing temperature, similar to other L12-type intermetallic alloys.
Joint Effect of Ultrasonic Vibrations and Solid Metal Addition on the Grain Refinement of an Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Eskin Dmitry , Wang Feng
Published: February 2019

It is well known that it takes some time for the solid phase to completely dissolve upon melting, especially inside the defects of insoluble particles, e.g. oxides. Until then the oxides remain active solidification substrates in the case of subsequent solidification. It is also known that ultrasonic melt treatment causes grain refinement through activation and dispersion of solidification substrates (one of the mechanisms) and also accelerates the dissolution of solid metal in the melt. In this study we combine these effects and demonstrate that the introduction of an alloy rod into the matrix melt of the same composition results in significant grain refinement, this effect is increased by the ultrasonic vibration of the rod. The achieved grain size is comparable to that obtained by a standard Al–Ti–B grain refiner. All samples were cast using a standard TP-1 mould to enable correct comparison. The effects of the temperature range of the rod introduction as well as the application of ultrasonic vibrations are discussed.
Effect of Microstructure on Hydrogen Permeation in EA4T and 30CrNiMoV12 Railway Axle Steels
Authors: Si Tingzhi , Liu Yunpeng , Zhang Qingan , Liu Dongming , Li Yongtao
Published: February 2019

A comparative study was conducted to reveal the effect of microstructure on hydrogen permeation in the EA4T and 30CrNiMoV12 railway axle steels. Unlike the EA4T with its sorbite structure, 30CrNiMoV12 steel shows a typical tempered martensitic structure, in which a large number of fine, short, rod-like, and spherical carbides are uniformly dispersed at boundaries and inside laths. More importantly, this structure possesses plentifully strong hydrogen traps, such as nanosized Cr7C3, Mo2C, VC, and V4C3, thus resulting in a high density of trapping sites (N = 1.17 × 1022 cm−3). The hydrogen permeation experiments further demonstrated that, compared to EA4T, the 30CrNiMoV12 steel not only delivered minimally effective hydrogen diffusivity but also had a high hydrogen concentration. The activation energy for hydrogen diffusion of the 30CrNiMoV12 steel was greatly increased from 23.27 ± 1.94 of EA4T to 47.82 ± 2.14 kJ mol−1.
Specific Cytotoxic Effects of Parasporal Crystal Proteins Isolated from Native Saudi Arabian Bacillus thuringiensis Strains against Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Aboul-Soud Mourad A. M. , Al-Amri Mohammed Z. , Kumar Ashok , Al-Sheikh Yazeed A. , Ashour Abdelkader E. , El-Kersh Talat A.
Published: February 2019

Currently, global efforts are being intensified towards the discovery of local Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates with unique anticancer properties. Parasporins (PS) are a group of Bt non-insecticidal crystal proteins with potential and specific in vitro anticancer activity. However, despite the significant therapeutic potential of PS-producing Bt strains, our current knowledge on the effects of these proteins is limited. Hence, the main objective of this study was to screen Bt-derived parasporal toxins for cytotoxic activities against colon (HT-29) and cervical (HeLa) cancerous cell lines. Nine non-larvicidal and non-hemolytic Bt strains, native to Saudi Arabia, were employed for the isolation of their parasporal toxins. 16S rDNA sequencing revealed a 99.5% similarity with a reference Bt strain. While PCR screening results indicated the absence of selected Cry (Cry4A, Cry4B, Cry10 and Cry11), Cyt (Cyt1 and Cyt2) and PS (PS2, PS3 and PS4) genes, it concluded presence of the PS1 gene. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that proteolytically-cleavaged PS protein profiles exhibit patterns resembling those observed with PS1Aa1, with major bands at 56 kDa and 17 kDa (Bt7), and 41 kDa and 16 kDa (Bt5). Solubilized and trypsinized PS proteins from all Bt strains exhibited a marked and dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cancerous cells but not against HT-29 cells. IC50 values ranged from 3.2 (Bt1) to 14.2 (Bt6) with an average of 6.8 µg/mL. The observed cytotoxicity of PS proteins against HeLa cells was specific as it was not evident against normal uterus smooth muscle cells. RT-qPCR analysis revealed the overexpression of caspase 3 and caspase 9 by 3.7, and 4.2 folds, respectively, indicative of the engagement of intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report exploring and exploiting the versatile repertoire of Saudi Arabian environmental niches for the isolation of native and possibly novel Saudi Bt strains with unique and specific anticancer activity. In conclusion, native Saudi Bt-derived PS proteins might have a potential to join the arsenal of natural anticancer drugs.
Cell Cycle Arrest in Different Cancer Cell Lines (Liver, Breast, and Colon) Induces Apoptosis under the Influence of the Chemical Content of Aeluropus lagopoides Leaf Extracts
Authors: Saleh Kamel , Albinhassan Tahani , Elbehairi Serage , Alshehry Mohammed , Alfaifi Mohammad , Al-Ghazzawi Adel , Al-Kahtani Mohamed , Alasmari Abdullah
Published: February 2019

Natural products, especially secondary metabolites produced by plants under stressed conditions, are shown to have different pharmacological impacts from one to another. Aeluropus lagopoides is one of the common halophyte plants that survive under stressed conditions, and has been used for healing wounds and as a painkiller. The bioactivity and the chemical composition of this plant have been poorly investigated. Consequently, the chemical components of A. lagopoides leaves were extracted using hexane (nonpolar), ethyl acetate (semi-polar), and n-butanol (polar) to extract the most extensive variety of metabolites. The cytotoxicity and anticancer impact of extracted secondary metabolites were evaluated against breast (MCF-7), colon (HCT-116), and liver (HepG2) cancer cell lines using a SulphoRhodamine-B (SRB) test. Their mechanisms of action were verified by observing the appearance of apoptotic bodies using the fluorescent microscope, while their antiproliferative impacts were evaluated using a flow cytometer. Results revealed that secondary metabolites extracted using hexane and ethyl acetate had the highest cytotoxicity and thus the greatest anticancer activity effect on HepG2 with IC50 (24.29 ± 0.85 and 11.22 ± 0.679 µg/mL, respectively). On the other hand, flow cytometer results showed that secondary metabolites could inhibit the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase. To ascertain the chemical composition–function relationship, the extracts were analyzed using LC-MS/MS. Accordingly, A. lagopoides hexane and ethyl acetate extracts may contain agents with anticancer potential.
Degradation of Proteins and Starch by Combined Immobilization of Protease, α-Amylase and β-Galactosidase on a Single Electrospun Nanofibrous Membrane
Authors: Cloete William J. , Hayward Stefan , Swart Pieter , Klumperman Bert
Published: February 2019

Two commercially available enzymes, Dextrozyme (α-amylase) and Esperase (protease), were covalently immobilized on non-woven electrospun poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) nanofiber mats with partial retention of their catalytic activity. Immobilization was achieved for the enzymes on their own as well as in different combinations with an additional enzyme, β-galactosidase, on the same non-woven nanofiber mat. This experiment yielded a universal method for immobilizing different combinations of enzymes with nanofibrous mats containing maleic anhydride (MAnh) residues in the polymer backbone.
Evaluation of the Hepatotoxicity of the Zhi-Zi-Hou-Po Decoction by Combining UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS-Based Metabolomics and HPLC-MS/MS-Based Geniposide Tissue Distribution
Authors: Wang Yunji , Feng Fang
Published: February 2019

With traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) becoming widespread globally, its safety has increasingly become a concern, especially its hepatoxicity. For example, Gardenia jasminoides Ellis is a key ingredient in the Zhi-Zi-Hou-Po decoction (ZZHPD), which is a commonly-used clinically combined prescription of TCM that may induce hepatoxicity. However, the underlying toxicity mechanism of ZZHPD is not fully understood. In this study, a plasma metabolomics strategy was used to investigate the mechanism of ZZHPD-induced hepatotoxicity through profiling entire endogenous metabolites. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into four groups, which were orally administered with 0.9% saline, as well as 2.7 g/kg/day, 8.1 g/kg/day, or 27 g/kg/day of ZZHPD for 30 consecutive days, respectively. Biochemical assay and metabolomics assay were used to detect serum and plasma samples, whilst histopathological assay was used for detecting liver tissues, and the geniposide distribution in tissues was simultaneously measured. The results showed that the concentration of 20 metabolites linked to amino acid, lipid, and bile acid metabolism had significant changes in the ZZHPD-treated rats. Moreover, toxic effects were aggravated with serum biochemical and histopathological examines in liver tissues as the dosage increased, which may be associated with the accumulation of geniposide in the liver as the dosage increased. Notably, our findings also demonstrated that the combined metabolomics strategy with tissue distribution had significant potential for elucidating the mechanistic complexity of the toxicity of TCM.
Effects of Substituents on the Blue Luminescence of Disilane-Linked Donor‒Acceptor‒Donor Triads
Authors: Usuki Tsukasa , Omoto Kenichiro , Shimada Masaki , Yamanoi Yoshinori , Kasai Hidetaka , Nishibori Eiji , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

A series of disilane-linked donor‒acceptor‒donor triads (D‒Si‒Si‒A‒Si‒Si‒D) was synthesized to investigate the effects of substituents on the photophysical properties. The triads were prepared by metal-catalyzed diiodosilylation of aryl iodides using a Pd(P(t-Bu)3)2/(i-Pr)2EtN/toluene system that we previously developed. Optical measurements, X-ray diffraction analysis, and density functional theory calculations revealed relationships between the photophysical properties and molecular structures of these triads in solution and in the solid state. The compounds emitted blue to green fluorescence in CH2Cl2 solution and in the solid state. Notably, compound 2 showed fluorescence with an absolute quantum yield of 0.17 in the solid state but showed no fluorescence in CH2Cl2. Our findings confirmed that the substituent adjacent to the disilane moiety affects the conformations and emission efficiencies of compounds in solution and in the solid state.
A New 3-D Open-Framework Zinc Borovanadate with Catalytic Potentials in α-Phenethyl Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Guo Biao , Sun Xuejiao , Zhang Le , Yuan Hongming
Published: February 2019

A novel 3-D open-framework zinc borovanadate [Zn6(en)3][(VIVO)6(VVO)6O6(B18O36(OH)6)·(H2O)]2·14H2O (1, en = ethylenediamine) was hydrothermally obtained and structurally characterized. The framework was built from [V12B18O54(OH)6(H2O)]10− polyanion clusters bridged by Zn(en) complex fragments. The compound not only possessed a three-dimensional open-framework structure with unique plane-shaped channels, but also exhibited excellent catalytic activities for the oxidation of α-phenethyl alcohol.
Flow Cytometry Analysis of Antibacterial Effects of Universal Dentin Bonding Agents on Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Lapinska Barbara , Konieczka Magdalena , Zarzycka Beata , Sokolowski Krzysztof , Grzegorczyk Janina , Lukomska-Szymanska Monika
Published: February 2019

There is no consensus on the antibacterial activity of dentin bonding systems (DBS). Many study models have been used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of dental materials. In this study, a novel detection method, flow cytometry, was introduced. It allows for evaluation of the antibacterial activity of DBS, based on assessment of the disruption of the bacterial physical membrane induced by DBS. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial properties of selected dentin bonding systems against Streptococcus mutans. The highest antibacterial activity against S. mutans was observed for Adhese Universal (99.68% dead cells) and was comparable to that of Prime&Bond Universal, OptiBond Universal, or Clearfil Universal Bond Quick (p > 0.05). The lowest activity of all tested systems was displayed by the multi-mode adhesive, Universal Bond (12.68% dead bacteria cells), followed by the self-etch adhesive, OptiBond FL (15.58% dead bacteria cells). The present study showed that in the case of two-component DBS, the primer exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than the adhesive (or bond) itself.
Iron(III)-Catalyzed Highly Regioselective Halogenation of 8-Amidoquinolines in Water
Authors: Long Yang , Pan Lei , Zhou Xiangge
Published: February 2019

A simple protocol of iron(III)-catalyzed halogenation of 8-amidoquinolines in water under mild conditions was developed, affording the 5-halogenlated products in good to excellent yields up to 98%. The reaction mechanism most likely involves a single-electron transfer (SET) process.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Some Novel Thiazole-Based Heterocycles as Potential Anticancer and Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Abu-Melha Sraa , Edrees Mastoura M. , Salem Heba H. , Kheder Nabila A. , Gomha Sobhi M. , Abdelaziz Mohamad R.
Published: February 2019

A novel series of thiazole-based heterocycles was synthesized using 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions in the presence of chitosan-grafted-poly(vinylpyridine) as an eco-friendly biopolymeric basic catalyst. The molecular structure of the synthesized compounds was illustrated by spectroscopic and elemental analysis. Various in vitro biological assays were performed to explore the potential antitumor, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activities of the newly synthesized compounds. The cytotoxic activities were assessed against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2), colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines and results revealed that all compounds displayed antitumor activities with the chlorine-containing derivatives, 11c and 6g, being the most potent. The majority of the tested thiazole derivatives exhibited satisfactory antibacterial activity towards the used gram positive and gram-negative bacterial species. Moreover, many derivatives showed weak hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.
Identification of a Novel Gene Encoding the Specialized Alanine Decarboxylase in Tea (Camellia sinensis) Plants
Authors: Bai Peixian , Wei Kang , Wang Liyuan , Zhang Fen , Ruan Li , Li Hailin , Wu Liyun , Cheng Hao
Published: February 2019

Theanine, a unique amino acid in Camellia sinensis, accounts for more than 50% of total free amino acids in tea and has a significant contribution to the quality of green tea. Previous research indicated that theanine is synthesized from glutamic acid (Glu) and ethylamine mainly in roots, and that theanine accumulation depends on the availability of ethylamine which is derived from alanine (Ala) decarboxylation catalyzed by alanine decarboxylase (AlaDC). However, the specific gene encoding AlaDC protein remains to be discovered in tea plants or in other species. To explore the gene of AlaDC in tea plants, the differences in theanine contents and gene expressions between pretreatment and posttreatment of long-time nitrogen starvation were analyzed in young roots of two tea cultivars. A novel gene annotated as serine decarboxylase (SDC) was noted for its expression levels, which showed high consistency with theanine content, and the expression was remarkably high in young roots under sufficient nitrogen condition. To verify its function, full-length complementary DNA (cDNA) of this candidate gene was cloned from young roots of tea seedlings, and the target protein was expressed and purified from Escherichia coli (E. coli). The enzymatic activity of the protein for Ala and Ser was measured in vitro using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). The results illustrated that the target protein could catalyze the decarboxylation of Ala despite of its high similarity with SDC from other species. Therefore, this novel gene was identified as AlaDC and named CsAlaDC. Furthermore, the gene expression levels of CsAlaDC in different tissues of tea plants were also quantified with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results suggest that transcription levels of CsAlaDC in root tissues are significantly higher than those in leaf tissues. That may explain why theanine biosynthesis preferentially occurs in the roots of tea plants. The expression of the gene was upregulated when nitrogen was present, suggesting that theanine biosynthesis is regulated by nitrogen supply and closely related to nitrogen metabolism for C. sinensis. The results of this study are significant supplements to the theanine biosynthetic pathway and provide evidence for the differential accumulation of theanine between C. sinensis and other species.
Effect of Carbon Nanoparticles on the Crystallization of Calcium Carbonate in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Wan Chuan , Wang Le-Tian , Sha Jun-Yi , Ge Hong-Hua
Published: February 2019

Nanofluids have great application prospects in industrial heat exchange systems because they can significantly improve the heat and mass transfer efficiency. However, the presence of nanoparticles in the fluid might also affect the formation and attachment of inorganic scales, such as calcium carbonate, on the heat exchange surface. The effects of carbon nanoparticles on the crystallization of calcium carbonate in aqueous solution were studied by the scale inhibition test, solution analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that carbon nanoparticles had an excellent surface scale inhibition performance for calcium carbonate, which could effectively prevent the adhesion of scale on the heat exchange surface. The carbon nanoparticles did not affect the solubility of calcium carbonate in water, but changed the crystal form of the precipitated calcium carbonate, making it difficult to adsorb on the heat exchange surface and achieving a surface scale inhibition effect. Carbon nanofluids effectively inhibit the adhesion of calcium carbonate to heat exchange surfaces.
Seed-Mediated Electroless Deposition of Gold Nanoparticles for Highly Uniform and Efficient SERS Enhancement
Authors: Tang Junqi , Ou Quanhong , Zhou Haichun , Qi Limin , Man Shiqing
Published: February 2019

A seed-mediated electroless deposition (SMED) approach for fabrication of large-area and uniform gold nanoparticle films as efficient and reproducible as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates was presented. This approach involved a seeding pretreatment procedure and a subsequent growth step. The former referred to activation of polylysine-coated glass slides in gold seed solution, and the latter required a careful control of the reactant concentration and reaction time. With the aid of gold seeds and appropriate reaction conditions, a large-area and uniform nanofilm with evenly distributed gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) was formed on the surface of the substrates after adding a mixed solution containing ascorbic acid and trisodium citrate. The morphology of the Au nanofilm was examined by scanning electron microscopy. The size evolution of Au NPs on the surface of the substrates was analyzed in detail. The nanofilm substrate was prepared by reaction conditions of the seeded activation process: 10 mL ascorbic acid and trisodium citrate mixture and 30 min of soaking time, which exhibited an excellent uniformity and reproducibility of SERS enhancement with relative standard deviation (RSD) values of less than 8% (particularly, a RSD value of 3% can be reached for the optimized measurement). Compared to the common electroless deposition, the seed-mediated electroless deposition possessed inherent advantages in controllability, reproducibility, and economic benefit.
Efficacy and Safety of Lactobacillus Plantarum C29-Fermented Soybean (DW2009) in Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A 12-Week, Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Hwang Yun-Ha , Park Shinwon , Paik Jong-Woo , Chae Soo-Wan , Kim Dong-Hyun , Jeong Doc-Gyun , Ha Eunji , Kim Myeongju , Hong Gahae , Park Soo-Hyun , Jung Su-Jin , Lee Sang-Min , Na Kyu-Heum , Kim Jungyoon , Chung Young-Chul
Published: February 2019

Early intervention using dietary supplements may be effective in alleviating cognitive impairment among individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study investigated the efficacy and safety of Lactobacillus plantarum C29-fermented soybean (DW2009) as a nutritional supplement for cognitive enhancement. One hundred individuals with MCI were randomly assigned to take DW2009 (800 mg/day, n = 50) or placebo (800 mg/day, n = 50) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure was change in the composite score of cognitive functions related to memory and attention, measured by computerized neurocognitive function tests. Associations between changes in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and cognitive performance for each treatment group were evaluated. Compared to the placebo group, the DW2009 group showed greater improvements in the combined cognitive functions (z = 2.36, p for interaction = 0.02), especially in the attention domain (z = 2.34, p for interaction = 0.02). Cognitive improvement was associated with increased serum BDNF levels after consumption of DW2009 (t = 2.83, p = 0.007). The results of this clinical trial suggest that DW2009 can be safely administered to enhance cognitive function in individuals with MCI. Increased serum BDNF levels after administering DW2009 may provide preliminary insight into the underlying effects of cognitive improvement, which suggests the importance of the gut-brain axis in ameliorating cognitive deficits in MCI.
Human Tongue Electrophysiological Response to Oleic Acid and Its Associations with PROP Taster Status and the CD36 Polymorphism (rs1761667)
Authors: Sollai Giorgia , Melis Melania , Mastinu Mariano , Pani Danilo , Cosseddu Piero , Bonfiglio Annalisa , Crnjar Roberto , Tepper Beverly J. , Tomassini Barbarossa Iole
Published: February 2019

The perception of fat varies among individuals and has also been associated with CD36 rs1761667 polymorphism and genetic ability to perceive oral marker 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP). Nevertheless, data in the literature are controversial. We present direct measures for the activation of the peripheral taste system in response to oleic acid by electrophysiological recordings from the tongue of 35 volunteers classified for PROP taster status and genotyped for CD36. The waveform of biopotentials was analyzed and values of amplitude and rate of potential variation were measured. Oleic acid stimulations evoked positive monophasic potentials, which represent the summated voltage change consequent to the response of the stimulated taste cells. Bio-electrical measurements were fully consistent with the perceived intensity during stimulation, which was verbally reported by the volunteers. ANOVA revealed that the amplitude of signals was directly associated, mostly in the last part of the response, with the CD36 genotypes and PROP taster status (which was directly associated with the density of papillae). The rate of potential variation was associated only with CD36, primarily in the first part of the response. In conclusion, our results provide direct evidence of the relationship between fat perception and rs1761667 polymorphism of the CD36 gene and PROP phenotype.
Modulators of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Channels as Therapeutic Options in Lung Disease
Authors: Dietrich Alexander
Published: February 2019

The lungs are essential for gas exchange and serve as the gateways of our body to the external environment. They are easily accessible for drugs from both sides, the airways and the vasculature. Recent literature provides evidence for a role of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels as chemosensors and essential members of signal transduction cascades in stress-induced cellular responses. This review will focus on TRP channels (TRPA1, TRPC6, TRPV1, and TRPV4), predominantly expressed in non-neuronal lung tissues and their involvement in pathways associated with diseases like asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung fibrosis, and edema formation. Recently identified specific modulators of these channels and their potential as new therapeutic options as well as strategies for a causal treatment based on the mechanistic understanding of molecular events will also be evaluated.
Long-Lasting, Antinociceptive Effects of pH-Sensitive Niosomes Loaded with Ibuprofen in Acute and Chronic Models of Pain
Authors: Marzoli Francesca , Marianecci Carlotta , Rinaldi Federica , Passeri Daniele , Rossi Marco , Minosi Paola , Carafa Maria , Pieretti Stefano
Published: February 2019

Ibuprofen is one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) widely used to treat pain conditions. NSAIDs encounter several obstacles to passing across biological membranes. To overcome these constraints, we decided to study the effects of a new pH-sensitive formulation of niosomes containing Polysorbate 20 derivatized by Glycine and loaded with ibuprofen (NioIbu) in several animal models of pain in mice. We performed two tests commonly used to study acute antinociceptive activity, namely the writhing test and the capsaicin test. Our results demonstrated that NioIbu, administered 2 h before testing, reduced nociception, whereas the free form of ibuprofen was ineffective. In a model of inflammatory pain, hyperalgesia induced by zymosan, NioIbu induced a long-lasting reduction in hyperalgesia in treated mice. In a model of neuropathic pain induced by sciatic nerve chronic constriction, NioIbu reduced both neuropathy-induced allodynia and hyperalgesia. The results obtained in our experiments suggest that pH-sensitive niosomes containing Polysorbate 20 derivatized by Glycine is an effective model for NSAIDs delivery, providing durable antinociceptive effects and reducing the incidence of side effects.
Formulation Strategies to Improve Nose-to-Brain Delivery of Donepezil
Authors: Espinoza Lupe Carolina , Silva-Abreu Marcelle , Clares Beatriz , Rodríguez-Lagunas María José , Halbaut Lyda , Cañas María-Alexandra , Calpena Ana Cristina
Published: February 2019

Donepezil (DPZ) is widely used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in tablet form for oral administration. The pharmacological efficacy of this drug can be enhanced by the use of intranasal administration because this route makes bypassing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) possible. The aim of this study was to develop a nanoemulsion (NE) as well as a nanoemulsion with a combination of bioadhesion and penetration enhancing properties (PNE) in order to facilitate the transport of DPZ from nose-to-brain. Composition of NE was established using three pseudo-ternary diagrams and PNE was developed by incorporating Pluronic F-127 to the aqueous phase. Parameters such as physical properties, stability, in vitro release profile, and ex vivo permeation were determined for both formulations. The tolerability was evaluated by in vitro and in vivo models. DPZ-NE and DPZ-PNE were transparent, monophasic, homogeneous, and physically stable with droplets of nanometric size and spherical shape. DPZ-NE showed Newtonian behavior whereas a shear thinning (pseudoplastic) behavior was observed for DPZ-PNE. The release profile of both formulations followed a hyperbolic kinetic. The permeation and prediction parameters were significantly higher for DPZ-PNE, suggesting the use of polymers to be an effective strategy to improve the bioadhesion and penetration of the drug through nasal mucosa, which consequently increase its bioavailability.
Recent Advances in Bio-Based Flame Retardant Additives for Synthetic Polymeric Materials
Authors: Hobbs Christopher E.
Published: February 2019

It would be difficult to imagine how modern life across the globe would operate in the absence of synthetic polymers. Although these materials (mostly in the form of plastics) have revolutionized our daily lives, there are consequences to their use, one of these being their high levels of flammability. For this reason, research into the development of flame retardant (FR) additives for these materials is of tremendous importance. However, many of the FRs prepared are problematic due to their negative impacts on human health and the environment. Furthermore, their preparations are neither green nor sustainable since they require typical organic synthetic processes that rely on fossil fuels. Because of this, the need to develop more sustainable and non-toxic options is vital. Many research groups have turned their attention to preparing new bio-based FR additives for synthetic polymers. This review explores some of the recent examples made in this field.
Facile Isolation of LCC-Fraction from Organosolv Lignin by Simple Soxhlet Extraction
Authors: Ebrahimi Majdar Reza , Ghasemian Ali , Resalati Hossein , Saraeian Ahmadreza , Crestini Claudia , Lange Heiko
Published: February 2019

A new fractionation protocol for wheat straw organosolv lignin was developed on the basis of the dominating H-bonding orientations of its components. Acetone as H-bond accepting aprotic polar solvent and methanol as H-bond donating and accepting protic polar solvent were used in sequence. Obtained fractions were structurally and thermally analysed. The protocol allowed for the generation of purified lignin fractions and the isolation of a novel, yet unobserved lignin carbohydrate complex (LCC) fraction. This LCC fraction was found to contain exclusively phenyl glycosides and γ-esters as LCC motifs.
Insights into Nano-Scale Physical and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy/Boehmite Nanocomposite Using Different AFM Modes
Authors: Ghasem Zadeh Khorasani Media , Silbernagl Dorothee , Platz Daniel , Sturm Heinz
Published: February 2019

Understanding the interaction between nanoparticles and the matrix and the properties of interphase is crucial to predict the macroscopic properties of a nanocomposite system. Here, we investigate the interaction between boehmite nanoparticles (BNPs) and epoxy using different atomic force microscopy (AFM) approaches. We demonstrate benefits of using multifrequency intermodulation AFM (ImAFM) to obtain information about conservative, dissipative and van der Waals tip-surface forces and probing local properties of nanoparticles, matrix and the interphase. We utilize scanning kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) to probe surface potential as a tool to visualize material contrast with a physical parameter, which is independent from the mechanics of the surface. Combining the information from ImAFM stiffness and SKPM surface potential results in a precise characterization of interfacial region, demonstrating that the interphase is softer than epoxy and boehmite nanoparticles. Further, we investigated the effect of boehmite nanoparticles on the bulk properties of epoxy matrix. ImAFM stiffness maps revealed the significant stiffening effect of boehmite nanoparticles on anhydride-cured epoxy matrix. The energy dissipation of epoxy matrix locally measured by ImAFM shows a considerable increase compared to that of neat epoxy. These measurements suggest a substantial alteration of epoxy structure induced by the presence of boehmite.
Experimental Study on Electric Potential Response Characteristics of Gas-Bearing Coal During Deformation and Fracturing Process
Authors: Li Zhonghui , Niu Yue , Wang Enyuan , Liu Lanbo , Wang Honghao , Wang Mingfu , Ali Muhammad
Published: February 2019

Coal mass is deformed and fractured under stress to generate electrical potential (EP) signals. The mechanical properties of coal change with the adsorption of gas. To investigate the EP response characteristics of gas-bearing coal during deformation and fracture, a test system to monitor multi-parameters of gas-bearing coal under load was designed. The results showed that abundant EP signals were generated during the loading process and the EP response corresponded well with the stress change and crack expansion, and validated this with the results from acoustic emission (AE) and high-speed photography. The higher stress level and the greater the sudden stress change led to the greater EP abnormal response. With the increase of gas pressure, the confining action and erosion effect are promoted, causing the damage evolution impacted and failure characteristics changes. As a result, the EP response is similar while the characteristics were promoted. The EP response was generated due to the charge separation caused by the friction effect etc. during the damage and deformation of the coal. Furthermore, the main factors of the EP response were different under diverse loading stages. The presence of gas promoted the EP effect. When the failure of the coal occurred, EP value rapidly rose to a maximum, which could be considered as an anomalous characteristic for monitoring the stability and revealing failure of gas-bearing coal. The research results are beneficial for further investigating the damage-evolution process of gas-bearing coal.
Beyond Making and Unmaking: Re-Envisioning Sacred Art
Authors: Gustafsson Daniel
Published: February 2019

This paper engages with predominantly Eastern Orthodox thinkers in reassessing the conditions under which sacred art may be possible today. The sacred has both ontological and cultural aspects. An artwork is sacred, firstly, by virtue of partaking of transcendent realities; and secondly, by being embedded in a worldview which allows the work to be made and received as sacred. Drawing on the thought of Philip Sherrard, the paper suggests that current conditions are characterised by cultural forgetting and the loss of such a metaphysical worldview. This paper proposes that the possibilities of sacred art must be rediscovered from within the practices of particular arts; and that this goes hand in hand with the rediscovery of a sacred ontology and of a Christian understanding of freedom. The paper will follow David Bentley Hart in affirming a theological understanding of freedom—as the orientation towards, and the attainment of communion with, ontological goods—against the prevalent postmodern and ultimately nihilistic notion of freedom as spontaneous volition. It is crucial, therefore, to also identify those transcendent goods towards which art may fruitfully be directed. In this light, the paper proposes the need to revise our concepts of matter, form, and, above all, beauty.
Symbols and Function of the Zhang Clan Han Army Sacrificial Rite
Authors: Guo Shuyun
Published: February 2019

The Eight Banners System is the social organizational structure of the bannerman (qiren, 旗人) from the Qing dynasty and the fundamental system of the country under Qing rule. It is divided into three types: the Manchu Eight Banners, Mongolian Eight Banners, and Han Army Eight Banners. The Han Army was a special group in the Qing dynasty between the bannerman and the commoners (minren, 民人). The sacrificial rite of the Han Army is a form of comprehensive shamanic ritual based on the traditional ancestor worship of the Han people. However, it is influenced, to some extent, by the shamanic ritual of the Manchus involving trance-dance. It finally took shape as a unique sacrificial form different from both the Manchu shamanic rite and the traditional ancestor worship of the Han minren. As a special system of symbolic rituals, the Han qiren’s sacrificial form embodies shamanic concepts and serves two functions: (1) dispelling evil and bringing in good fortune for the community; and (2) unifying the Han bannermen’s clans and strengthening the culture, identity, and tradition of the Han people, who were living under Manchu rule during the Qing dynasty.
The Tempest and Black Natural Law
Authors: Lupton Julia Reinhard
Published: February 2019

Vincent Lloyd’s 2016 book Black Natural Law presents four case histories in which African American intellectuals used the natural law tradition to mount defenses of the rights, capacities, and dignity of members of their communities. This essay uses the discourse of black natural law as reconstructed by Lloyd to reread Caliban’s political arguments and social and aesthetic project in The Tempest. Although the natural law tradition became increasingly secularized during the century of revolution, black thinkers such as W. E. B. Du Bois and Martin Luther King, Jr. drew on the religious renditions of natural law that were alive in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Reading Shakespeare with black natural law is not simply an audacious leap into our troubled present, but also brings new focus on the forms of scripturally-inspired pluralism that natural law theory supported in Shakespeare’s age.
Changes of Relation in Multi-Population Mortality Dependence: An Application of Threshold VECM
Authors: Zhou Rui , Xing Guangyu , Ji Min
Published: February 2019

Standardized longevity risk transfers often involve modeling mortality rates of multiple populations. Some researchers have found that mortality indexes of selected countries are cointegrated, meaning that a linear relationship exists between the indexes. Vector error correction model (VECM) was used to incorporate this relation, thereby forcing the mortality rates of multiple populations to revert to a long-run equilibrium. However, the long-run equilibrium may change over time. It is crucial to incorporate these changes such that mortality dependence is adequately modeled. In this paper, we develop a framework to examine the presence of equilibrium changes and to incorporate these changes into the mortality model. In particular, we focus on equilibrium changes caused by threshold effect, the phenomenon that mortality indexes alternate between different VECMs depending on the value of a threshold variable. Our framework comprises two steps. In the first step, a statistical test is performed to examine the presence of threshold effect in the VECM for multiple mortality indexes. In the second step, threshold vector error correction model (TVECM) is fitted to the mortality indexes and model adequacy is evaluated. We illustrate this framework with the mortality data of England and Wales (EW) and Canadian populations. We further apply the TVECM to forecast future mortalities and price an illustrative longevity bond with multivariate Wang transform. Our numerical results show that TVECM predicted much faster mortality improvement for EW and Canada than single-regime VECM and thus the incorporation of threshold effect significant increases longevity bond price.
Sinking Tide Gauge Revealed by Space-borne InSAR: Implications for Sea Level Acceleration at Pohang, South Korea
Authors: Palanisamy Vadivel Suresh Krishnan , Kim Duk-jin , Jung Jungkyo , Cho Yang-Ki , Han Ki-Jong , Jeong Kwang-Young
Published: February 2019

Vertical land motion at tide gauges influences sea level rise acceleration; this must be addressed for interpreting reliable sea level projections. In recent years, tide gauge records for the Eastern coast of Korea have revealed rapid increases in sea level rise compared with the global mean. Pohang Tide Gauge Station has shown a +3.1 cm/year sea level rise since 2013. This study aims to estimate the vertical land motion that influences relative sea level rise observations at Pohang by applying a multi-track Persistent Scatter Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PS-InSAR) time-series analysis to Sentinel-1 SAR data acquired during 2015–2017. The results, which were obtained at a high spatial resolution (10 m), indicate vertical ground motion of −2.55 cm/year at the Pohang Tide Gauge Station; this was validated by data from a collocated global positioning system (GPS) station. The subtraction of InSAR-derived subsidence rates from sea level rise at the Pohang Tide Gauge Station is 6 mm/year; thus, vertical land motion significantly dominates the sea level acceleration. Natural hazards related to the sea level rise are primarily assessed by relative sea level changes obtained from tide gauges; therefore, tide gauge records should be reviewed for rapid vertical land motion along the vulnerable coastal areas.