bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic Plasticity of Fibroblasts during Mammary Carcinoma Development
Authors: Elwakeel Eiman , Brüggemann Mirko , Fink Annika F. , Schulz Marcel H. , Schmid Tobias , Savai Rajkumar , Brüne Bernhard , Zarnack Kathi , Weigert Andreas
Published: September 2019

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment contribute to all stages of tumorigenesis and are usually considered to be tumor-promoting cells. CAFs show a remarkable degree of heterogeneity, which is attributed to developmental origin or to local environmental niches, resulting in distinct CAF subsets within individual tumors. While CAF heterogeneity is frequently investigated in late-stage tumors, data on longitudinal CAF development in tumors are lacking. To this end, we used the transgenic polyoma middle T oncogene-induced mouse mammary carcinoma model and performed whole transcriptome analysis in FACS-sorted fibroblasts from early- and late-stage tumors. We observed a shift in fibroblast populations over time towards a subset previously shown to negatively correlate with patient survival, which was confirmed by multispectral immunofluorescence analysis. Moreover, we identified a transcriptomic signature distinguishing CAFs from early- and late-stage tumors. Importantly, the signature of early-stage CAFs correlated well with tumor stage and survival in human mammary carcinoma patients. A random forest analysis suggested predictive value of the complete set of differentially expressed genes between early- and late-stage CAFs on bulk tumor patient samples, supporting the clinical relevance of our findings. In conclusion, our data show transcriptome alterations in CAFs during tumorigenesis in the mammary gland, which suggest that CAFs are educated by the tumor over time to promote tumor development. Moreover, we show that murine CAF gene signatures can harbor predictive value for human cancer.
Evans Blue Reduces Neuropathic Pain Behavior by Inhibiting Spinal ATP Release
Authors: Yin Yuhua , Hong Jinpyo , Phạm Thuỳ Linh , Shin Juhee , Gwon Do Hyeong , Kwon Hyeok Hee , Shin Nara , Shin Hyo Jung , Lee Sun Yeul , Lee Won-hyung , Kim Dong Woon
Published: September 2019

Upon peripheral nerve injury, vesicular ATP is released from damaged primary afferent neurons. This extracellular ATP subsequently activates purinergic receptors of the spinal cord, which play a critical role in neuropathic pain. As an inhibitor of the vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT), Evans blue (EB) inhibits the vesicular storage and release of ATP in neurons. Thus, we tested whether EB could attenuate neuropathic pain behavior induced by spinal nerve ligation (SNL) in rats by targeting VNUT. An intrathecal injection of EB efficiently attenuated mechanical allodynia for five days in a dose-dependent manner and enhanced locomotive activity in an SNL rat model. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that EB was found in VNUT immunoreactivity on neurons in the dorsal root ganglion and the spinal dorsal horn. The level of ATP in cerebrospinal fluid in rats with SNL-induced neuropathic pain decreased upon administration of EB. Interestingly, EB blocked ATP release from neurons, but not glial cells in vitro. Eventually, the loss of ATP decreased microglial activity in the ipsilateral dorsal horn of the spinal cord, followed by a reduction in reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6. Finally, a similar analgesic effect of EB was demonstrated in rats with monoiodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis (OA) pain. Taken together, these data demonstrate that EB prevents ATP release in the spinal dorsal horn and reduces the ATP/purinergic receptor-induced activation of spinal microglia followed by a decline in algogenic substances, thereby relieving neuropathic pain in rats with SNL.
Effects of Propoxur Exposure on Insecticidal Susceptibility and Developmental Traits in Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Karungu Samuel , Cai Quanxin , Yuan Zhiming , Hu Xiaomin
Published: September 2019

Propoxur-sel strains of Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus were derived from a lab-bred strain following 16 generations of propoxur exposure under sublethal concentrations of LC25 (lethal concentration of 25%) and LC50 (lethal concentration of 50%), respectively. This resulted in resistance development in F16 with ratios of 8.8× and 6.3×, respectively, compared with F0. The fecundity, longevity, sex ratio (F/M), and hatchability of the propoxur-exposed Cx. quinquefasciatus adult survivors and their offspring were decreased, with no effect on the emergence ratio and pupa survival rate. In addition, the intrinsic rates of increase (r), the net reproduction (R0), and the finite rate of increase (λ) of the Cx. quinquefasciatus offspring generations were also decreased significantly compared to F0. Correspondingly, the mean generation time (T) and the population double time (DT) in propoxur-sels were increased. Enhanced activities of cytochrome P450 monooxygenase and esterase were also observed in propoxur-sels, indicating that a detoxification mechanism might be responsible for resistance development in Cx. quinquefasciatus. Except for the three genes cyp4d42v1, cyp4c52v1, and cyp6aa9 which displayed a coincidence in some degree in different treatments, induction by different doses of propoxur and constitutive expression in different generations of propoxur-sel strains resulted in an inconsistent identification of the P450 genes probably related with resistance.
Physician Adherence to Treat-to-Target and Practice Guidelines in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Batko Bogdan , Batko Krzysztof , Krzanowski Marcin , Żuber Zbigniew
Published: September 2019

Principles of treat-to-target (T2T) have been widely adopted in both multinational and regional guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Several questionnaire studies among physicians and real-world data have suggested that an evidence–practice gap exists in RA management. Investigating physician adherence to T2T, which requires a process measure, is difficult. Different practice patterns among physicians are observed, while adherence to protocolized treatment declines over time. Rheumatologist awareness, agreement, and claims of adherence to T2T guidelines are not always consistent with medical records. Comorbidities, a difficult disease course, communication barriers, and individual preferences may hinder an intensive, proactive treatment stance. Interpreting deviations from protocolized treatment/T2T guidelines requires sufficient clinical context, though higher adherence seems to improve clinical outcomes. Nonmedical constraints in routine care may consist of barriers in healthcare structure and socioeconomic factors. Therefore, strategies to improve the institution of T2T should be tailored to local healthcare. Educational interventions to improve T2T adherence among physicians may show a moderate, although beneficial effect. Meanwhile, a proportion of patients with inadequately controlled RA exists, while management decisions may not be in accordance with T2T. Physicians tend to be aware of current guidelines, but their institution in routine practice seems challenging, which warrants attention and further study.
Sweet Relief: Determining the Antimicrobial Activity of Medical Grade Honey Against Vaginal Isolates of Candida albicans
Authors: Hermanns Renée , Cremers Niels , Leeming John , van der Werf Esther
Published: September 2019

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is predicted to increase to almost 158 million cases annually by 2030. Extensive self-diagnosis and easily accessible over-the-counter (OTC) fungistatic drugs contribute to antifungal-resistance, illustrating the need for novel therapies. Honey possesses multiple antimicrobial mechanisms, and there is no antimicrobial resistance towards honey reported. We evaluated the susceptibility of five clinical isolates of Candida albicans and a control strain to regular honey and a medical grade honey (MGH) gel formulation (L-Mesitran, containing 40% honey and vitamins C and E) using an adapted version of the EUCAST protocol at pH 5.2, 4.6, and 4.0. 40% regular honey did not kill or inhibit C. albicans. In contrast, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of L-Mesitran was 25%–50%, while fungicidal effects occurred at a 50% concentration (MBC) of the MGH formulation, except for one strain which was not killed at pH 4.0. Overall, pH had little effect on antimicrobial activity. MGH formulation L-Mesitran has antimicrobial activity against C. albicans over a relevant pH range. The vitamin supplements or other components of L-Mesitran may enhance the antifungal activity of the honey. This study supports performing clinical trials for conditions, such as RVVC, to find an alternative to available OTC fungistatic drugs.
Temperature-Dependent Stiffening and Inelastic Behavior of Newly Synthesized Fiber-Reinforced Super Flexible Silica Aerogels
Authors: Rege Ameya , Voepel Pascal , Okumus Emrah , Hillgärtner Markus , Itskov Mikhail , Milow Barbara
Published: September 2019

In recent years, flexible silica aerogels have gained significant attention, owing to their excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties accompanied by mechanical flexibility. Fiber reinforcement of such aerogels results in a further enhancement of the strength and durability of the composite, while retaining the excellent insulation properties. In this paper, the influence of four different kinds of fibers within a flexible silica aerogel matrix is studied and reported. First, a description of the synthesis procedure and the resulting morphology of the four aerogel composites is presented. Their mechanical behavior under uniaxial quasi-static tension and compression is investigated, particularly their performance under uniaxial compression at different temperature conditions (50 °C, 0 °C, and −50 °C). The reinforcement of the flexible silica aerogels with four different fiber types only marginally influences the thermal conductivity but strongly enhances their mechanical properties.
Effect of Carbon Content on Friction and Wear Properties of Copper Matrix Composites at High Speed Current-Carrying
Authors: Yang Zhenghai , Ge Yuexin , Zhang Xu , Shangguan Bao , Zhang Yongzhen , Zhang Junwei
Published: September 2019

The copper matrix composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The current-carrying friction and wear tests were carried out on a self-made HST-100 high-speed current-carrying friction and wear tester, and the effect of the graphite content on the current-carrying friction and wear properties of the composite material was studied. The results show that with an increase in graphite content, the average friction coefficient and wear rate of the two materials decreased significantly, the fluctuation amplitude of the friction coefficient was also significantly reduced, and the average friction coefficient of copper-coated graphite composite with graphite content of 10 wt.% was 0.100; when the graphite content was the same and more than 5.0 wt.%, the average friction coefficient and wear rate of copper–graphite composites were slightly higher than copper–copper-coated graphite composites; the current-carrying efficiency and current-carrying stability of the copper matrix composite were obviously higher than that of copper material; there was a mechanical wear area and arc erosion area on the wear surface of the composites, with the increase in graphite content, the adherence and the tear of the mechanical wear area weakened, the rolling, plastic deformation increased, and the surface roughness decreased obviously. The surface roughness of the wear surface of copper–copper-coated graphite composites with graphite content of 10 wt.% was 3.17 μm. The forms of arc erosion included melting and splashing, and were mainly distributed in the friction exit area.
Study on the Fatigue and Durability Behavior of Structural Expanded Polystyrene Concretes
Authors: You Quan , Miao Linchang , Li Chao , Fang Huanglei , Liang Xiaodong
Published: September 2019

The fatigue and durability characteristics of structural expanded polystyrene concrete (EPS) are especially important when it was applied for structural elements in long-term service. In order to study the fatigue and durability behavior of structural EPS concrete, the long-term cyclic loading experiments and wetting–drying (W-D) cyclic experiments were conducted, respectively. The structural EPS concrete was found to have a relatively large damping and a fairly low dynamic elastic modulus under long-term cyclic load, which illustrated that it had a better energy absorption effect and toughness than plain concrete of the same strength level. Even if fine cracks appeared during the cyclic loading process, the relevant dynamic performance remained stable, which indicated that the structural EPS concrete had superior fatigue stability. In W-D cyclic experiments, the structural EPS concrete exhibited superior sulfate resistance. During the erosion test process, there was a positive correlation between the mass change and the evolution of the compressive strength of the structural EPS concrete, which indicated that ΔmB could be substituted for Δf to evaluate the degree of the structural EPS concrete eroded by sulfate attack. The study focuses on the fatigue performance and sulfate resistance of structural EPS concrete and is of important engineering value for promoting practical long-term operations.
Finite Element Analysis of the Size Effect on Ceramic Strength
Authors: Takeo Kyohei , Aoki Yuya , Osada Toshio , Nakao Wataru , Ozaki Shingo
Published: September 2019

The most prominent effect of the weakest link theory, which is used to derive the Weibull statistics of ceramic strength, is the size effect. In this study, we analyze the size effect on ceramic strength using the finite element analysis (FEA) methodology previously proposed by the authors. In the FEA methodology, the data of the microstructure distribution (i.e., relative density, size, and aspect ratio of the pore and the grain size) are considered as input parameters of a continuum damage model via a fracture mechanical model. Specifically, we examine five sizes of rectangular specimens under three types of loading conditions. Then, we simulate the fracture stresses of sets of 30 specimens under each size and loading condition and obtain the relationship between the scale parameter and effective volume using the Weibull distribution. The results suggest that the proposed FEA methodology can be applied to the analysis of the fracture probability of ceramics, including the size effect.
Briquetting of Wastes from Pulp and Paper Industries by Using AOD Converter Slag as Binders for Application in Metallurgy
Authors: Jarnerud Tova , Karasev Andrey V. , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: September 2019

A number of carbon-rich (containing up to 47 wt% C) and lime-rich (containing up to 96 wt% of CaO-compounds) waste products from the pulp and paper industries can be used in iron and steel industry as fuels and slag formers for various metallurgical processes such as blast furnaces (BF), cupola furnaces (CF), argon oxygen decarburization (AOD) converters and electric arc furnaces (EAF). In most cases, these wastes consist of different size powders. In order to facilitate loading, transportation and charging of these powder wastes, briquetting is required. In this study, a pulverized AOD slag was tested as a binder component for briquetting of CaO-containing wastes (such as mesa, lime mud and fly ash) from pulp and paper industries. Moreover, mechanical testing of the possibilities for loading, transportation and unloading operations were done, specifically drop test trials were done for briquettes with different chemical compositions and treatments such as heating and storage. The results showed that an addition of 10–20% of AOD slag as a binder component followed by heat-treatment at 850 °C significantly improved the mechanical properties of the CaO-containing briquettes. An application of these briquettes will significantly reduce the consumption of natural resources (such as nature lime) in the metallurgical processes. Moreover, it can reduce the landfill area of wastes from pulp and paper industries, which is important from an environmental point-of-view.
Combining Carbon Nanotubes and Chitosan for the Vectorization of Methotrexate to Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Cirillo Giuseppe , Vittorio Orazio , Kunhardt David , Valli Emanuele , Voli Florida , Farfalla Annafranca , Curcio Manuela , Spizzirri Umile Gianfranco , Hampel Silke
Published: September 2019

A hybrid system composed of multi-walled carbon nanotubes coated with chitosan was proposed as a pH-responsive carrier for the vectorization of methotrexate to lung cancer. The effective coating of the carbon nanostructure by chitosan, quantified (20% by weight) by thermogravimetric analysis, was assessed by combined scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (N1s signal), respectively. Furthermore, Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the interaction between polysaccharide and carbon counterparts. Methotrexate was physically loaded onto the nanohybrid and the release profiles showed a pH-responsive behavior with higher and faster release in acidic (pH 5.0) vs. neutral (pH 7.4) environments. Empty nanoparticles were found to be highly biocompatible in either healthy (MRC-5) or cancerous (H1299) cells, with the nanocarrier being effective in reducing the drug toxicity on MRC-5 while enhancing the anticancer activity on H1299.
MFL-Based Local Damage Diagnosis and SVM-Based Damage Type Classification for Wire Rope NDE
Authors: Kim Ju-Won , Tola Kassahun Demissie , Tran Dai Quoc , Park Seunghee
Published: September 2019

Wire ropes used in various applications such as elevators and cranes to safely carry heavy weights are vulnerable to breakage or cross-sectional loss caused by the external environment. Such damage can pose a serious risk to the safety of the entire structure because damage under tensile force rapidly expands due to concentration of stress. In this study, the magnetic flux leakage (MFL) method was applied to diagnose cuts, corrosion, and compression damage in wire ropes. Magnetic flux signals were measured by scanning damaged wire rope specimens using a multi-channel sensor head and a compact data acquisition system. A series of signal-processing procedures, including the Hilbert transform-based enveloping process, was applied to reduce noise and improve the resolution of signals. The possibility of diagnosing several types of damage was verified using enveloped magnetic flux signals. The characteristics of the MFL signals according to each damage type were then analyzed by comparing the extracted damage indices for each damage type. For automated damage type classification, a support vector machine (SVM)-based classifier was trained using the extracted damage indices. Finally, damage types were automatically classified as cutting and other damages using the trained SVM classifier.
Insights and Aspects to the Modeling of the Molten Core Method for Optical Fiber Fabrication
Authors: Cavillon Maxime , Dragic Peter , Faugas Benoit , Hawkins Thomas W. , Ballato John
Published: September 2019

The molten core method (MCM) is a versatile technique to fabricate a wide variety of optical fiber core compositions ranging from novel glasses to crystalline semiconductors. One common feature of the MCM is an interaction between the molten core and softened glass cladding during the draw process, which often leads to compositional modification between the original preform and the drawn fiber. This causes the final fiber core diameter, core composition, and associated refractive index profile to vary over time and longitudinally along the fiber. Though not always detrimental to performance, these variations must, nonetheless, be anticipated and controlled as they directly impact fiber properties (e.g., numerical aperture, effective area). As an exemplar to better understand the underlying mechanisms, a silica-cladding, YAG-derived yttrium aluminosilicate glass optical fiber was fabricated and its properties (core diameter, silica concentration profile) were monitored as a function of draw time/length. It was found that diffusion-controlled dissolution of silica into the molten core agreed well with the observations. Following this, a set of first order kinetics equations and diffusion equation using Fick’s second law was employed as an initial effort to model the evolution of fiber core diameter and compositional profile with time. From these trends, further insights into other compositional systems and control schemes are provided.
Nd: YAG Pulsed Laser Dissimilar Welding of UNS S32750 Duplex with 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Silva Leite Carla Gabriela , da Cruz Junior Eli Jorge , Lago Mattia , Zambon Andrea , Calliari Irene , Ventrella Vicente Afonso
Published: September 2019

Duplex stainless steels (DSSs), a particular category of stainless steels, are employed in all kinds of industrial applications where excellent corrosion resistance and high strength are necessary. These good properties are provided by their biphasic microstructure, consisting of ferrite and austenite in almost equal volume fractions of phases. In the present work, Nd: YAG pulsed laser dissimilar welding of UNS S32750 super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) with 316L austenitic stainless steel (ASS), with different heat inputs, was investigated. The results showed that the fusion zone microstructure observed consisted of a ferrite matrix with grain boundary austenite (GBA), Widmanstätten austenite (WA) and intragranular austenite (IA), with the same proportion of ferrite and austenite phases. Changes in the heat input (between 45, 90 and 120 J/mm) did not significantly affect the ferrite/austenite phase balance and the microhardness in the fusion zone.
Failure Mechanisms and Reinforcing Modes of Ply Splice Fiber-Reinforced Composite Laminates under Tensile Load
Authors: Zhu Meng , Chen Dingding , Hu Qigao
Published: September 2019

To fabricate large-scale or unusually shaped composite structures, pieces of fabric plies can be spliced to match size and shape requirements, forming ply splice structures. The junction of different plies can be considered as a defect in the resulting composite material, affecting the overall mechanical properties. In this paper, unidirectional carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) with ply splices was used as a research object to study these potential material defects. The effects of ply splices at different positions on the tensile properties of CFRP and the coupling between position of ply splicing were analyzed. Simultaneously, a finite element model was established to analyze the damage evolution, in which a continuous damage model and a cohesive zone model were used to describe the damage of the composite and interface layers, respectively. The model results were in good agreement with observed experimental results. Our results showed that there were three main factors for this failure mechanism: boundary effects, whether the ply splices were independent, or whether they were close to each other. In short, when two ply splices were located at the edge or independent of each other, the failure mode was first delamination and then fiber fracture, and the tensile strength was high. However, when the two ply splices were close to the edge or close to each other, the failure mode was first local fiber fracture and then delamination damage, and the resulting tensile strength was low. Finally, different reinforcement methods to improve the tensile properties of composites were adopted for the splicing layers at different positions through the analysis via model simulation. The two-side patch repair method was used to reinforce the ply splices on or near the edge. Additionally, increasing the toughness of the adhesive layer was used to reinforce the ply splices that were inside the material. These results showed that the tensile strength was enhanced by these two methods of reinforcement, and the initial damage load was especially increased.
Easy Method for the Transformation of Levulinic Acid into Gamma-Valerolactone Using a Nickel Catalyst Derived from Nanocasted Nickel Oxide
Authors: Sanchis Rut , García Tomás , Dejoz Ana M. , Vázquez Isabel , Llopis Francisco J. , Solsona Benjamín
Published: September 2019

Different nickel catalysts have been tested for the transformation of levulinic acid into γ-valerolactone using an easy hydrothermal method, taking advantage of the properties of the high temperature water. A metallic nickel catalyst derived from NiO synthesized by a nanocasting procedure can achieve a productivity to γ-valerolactone, which is two orders of magnitude higher than that obtained by a commercial nickel catalyst. This nanocasted metallic nickel catalyst has shown bifunctionality as it is capable of activating water as the source for hydrogen and undertaking the further hydrogenation step. In contrast with metallic nickel, nickel oxide has shown to be incapable of transforming levulinic acid into γ-valerolactone.
Analytic Methods for Solving Higher Order Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Beccar-Varela Maria P. , Bhuiyan Md Al Masum , Mariani Maria C. , Tweneboah Osei K.
Published: September 2019

In this work, an analytic approach for solving higher order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) is developed. The techniques offer analytic flexibility in many research areas such as physics, engineering, and applied sciences and are effective for solving complex ODEs.
Further Study of the DEA-Based Framework for Performance Evaluation of Competing Crude Oil Prices’ Volatility Forecasting Models
Authors: Zhou Zhongbao , Jin Qianying , Peng Jian , Xiao Helu , Wu Shijian
Published: September 2019

The super-efficiency data envelopment analysis model is innovative in evaluating the performance of crude oil prices’ volatility forecasting models. This multidimensional ranking, which takes account of multiple criteria, gives rise to a unified decision as to which model performs best. However, the rankings are unreliable because some efficiency scores are infeasible solutions in nature. What’s more, the desirability of indexes is worth discussing so as to avoid incorrect rankings. Hence, herein we introduce four models, which address the issue of undesirable characteristics of indexes and infeasibility of the super efficiency models. The empirical results reveal that the new rankings are more robust and quite different from the existing results.
First Results from a Screening of 300 Naturally Occurring Compounds: 4,6-dibromo-2-(2′,4′-dibromophenoxy)phenol, 4,5,6-tribromo-2-(2′,4′-dibromophenoxy)phenol, and 5-epi-nakijinone Q as Substances with the Potential for Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Mayer Saskia , Prechtl Marie , Liebfried Pia , Cadeddu Ron-Patrick , Stuhldreier Fabian , Kohl Matthias , Wenzel Folker , Stork Björn , Wesselborg Sebastian , Proksch Peter , Germing Ulrich , Haas Rainer , Jäger Paul
Published: September 2019

There is a variety of antineoplastic drugs that are based on natural compounds from ecological niches with high evolutionary pressure. We used two cell lines (Jurkat J16 and Ramos) in a screening to assess 300 different naturally occurring compounds with regard to their antineoplastic activity. The results of the compounds 4,6-dibromo-2-(2′,4′-dibromophenoxy)phenol (P01F03), 4,5,6-tribromo-2-(2′,4′-dibromophenoxy)phenol (P01F08), and 5-epi-nakijinone Q (P03F03) prompted us to perform further research. Using viability and apoptosis assays on the cell lines of primary human leukemic and normal hematopoietic cells, we found that P01F08 induced apoptosis in the cell lines at IC50 values between 1.61 and 2.95 μM after 72 h. IC50 values of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) from healthy donors were higher, demonstrating that the cytotoxicity in the cell lines reached 50%, while normal PBMNCs were hardly affected. The colony-forming unit assay showed that the hematopoietic progenitor cells were not significantly affected in their growth by P01F08 at a concentration of 3 μM. P01F08 showed a 3.2-fold lower IC50 value in primary leukemic cells [acute myeloid leukemia (AML)] compared to the PBMNC of healthy donors. We could confirm the antineoplastic effect of 5-epi-nakijinone Q (P03F03) on the cell lines via the induction of apoptosis but noted a similarly strong cytotoxic effect on normal PBMNCs.
Penicamide A, A Unique N,N′-Ketal Quinazolinone Alkaloid from Ascidian-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. 4829
Authors: Chen Senhua , Jiang Minghua , Chen Bin , Salaenoi Jintana , Niaz Shah-Iram , He Jianguo , Liu Lan
Published: September 2019

Previously unreported N,N′-ketal quinazolinone enantiomers [(−)-1 and (+)-1] and a new biogenetically related compound (2), along with six known compounds, 2-pyrovoylaminobenzamide (3), N-(2-hydroxypropanoyl)-2 amino benzoic acid amide (4), pseurotin A (5), niacinamide (6), citreohybridonol (7), citreohybridone C (8) were isolated from the ascidian-derived fungus Penicillium sp. 4829 in wheat solid-substrate medium culture. Their structures were elucidated by a combination of spectroscopic analyses (1D and 2D NMR and Electron Circular Dichroism data) and X-ray crystallography. The enantiomeric pair of 1 is the first example of naturally occurring N,N′-ketal quinazolinone possessing a unique tetracyclic system having 4-quinazolinone fused with tetrahydroisoquinoline moiety. The enantiomeric mixtures of 1 displayed an inhibitory effect on NO production in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW264.7 cells, while the optically pure (–)-1 showed better inhibitory effect than (+)-1.
The Distribution of Asterosaponins, Polyhydroxysteroids and Related Glycosides in Different Body Components of the Far Eastern Starfish Lethasterias fusca
Authors: Popov Roman S. , Ivanchina Natalia V. , Kicha Alla A. , Malyarenko Timofey V. , Grebnev Boris B. , Stonik Valentin A. , Dmitrenok Pavel S.
Published: September 2019

Glycoconjugated and other polar steroids of starfish have unique chemical structures and show a broad spectrum of biological activities. However, their biological functions remain not well established. Possible biological roles of these metabolites might be indicated by the studies on their distribution in the organism–producer. In order to investigate the localization of polar steroids in body components of the Far Eastern starfish Lethasterias fusca, chemical constituents of body walls, gonads, stomach, pyloric caeca, and coelomic fluid were studied by nanoflow liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry with captive spray ionization (nLC/CSI–QTOF–MS). It has been shown that the levels of polar steroids in the studied body components are qualitatively and quantitatively different. Generally, the obtained data confirmed earlier made assumptions about the digestive function of polyhydroxysteroids and protective role of asterosaponins. The highest level of polar steroids was found in the stomach. Asterosaponins were found in all body components, the main portion of free polyhydroxysteroids and related glycosides were located in the pyloric caeca. In addition, a great inter-individual variability was found in the content of most polar steroids, which may be associated with the peculiarities in their individual physiologic status.
Using Soluble ST2 to Predict Adverse Postoperative Outcomes in Patients with Impaired Left Ventricular Function Undergoing Coronary Bypass Surgery
Authors: Dolapoglu Ahmet , Avci Eyup , Yildirim Tarik , Kadi Hasan , Celik Ahmet
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of soluble ST2 (sST2) in predicting postoperative adverse events in patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Materials and Methods: This study included 80 consecutive patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and impaired LV function (ejection fraction ≤ 45%) undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The patients were divided into the “high” or “low” group according to their ST2 levels (≥35 or <35 ng/mL). Results: Postoperative adverse events were more common in patients with high sST2 levels than in patients with low sST2 levels (100% vs 26%, p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that sST2 level was an independent predictor of the presence of postoperative adverse events (OR: 1.117 (95% CI: 1.016–1.228), p = 0.022). The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis of sST2 revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.812 (95% CI: 0.710–0.913, p < 0.001) in predicting postoperative adverse events. An sST2 level of 26.50 ng/ml was identified as the optimal cut-off value, with a sensitivity and specificity of 74.1% and 75.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Higher sST2 levels were associated with adverse outcomes after CABG in patients with impaired LV and stable CAD.
Serum Interleukin-8 in Patients with Different Origin of Intra-Abdominal Infections in Perioperative Period
Authors: Riga Artem , Boyko Valeriy , Grirorov Yuriy
Published: September 2019

Intra-abdominal infections (IAI) are associated with high levels of pro-inflammatory serum IL-8 and poor outcomes, but data on IL-8 levels in various inflammatory reactions are contradictory. A better understanding of the diagnostic role of IL-8 is important, since the clinical relevance remains unclear. Methods: That was a single-center observational longitudinal cross-sectional study included 56 patients with various origins of intra-abdominal infections: 24 patients with postoperative abscesses, 12 patients with primary intra-abdominal abscesses, and 20 patients with diffuse peritoneal collection. Perioperative serum concentrations of interleukin-8 IL-8 were investigated at the day before surgery, on the 2nd–3rd day, and on the 5th–7th day after surgery. The hypothesis suggested that there was a difference in serum IL-8 in patients with IAI of different origin in the perioperative period. Results: The study showed that the level of serum IL-8 in patients with intra-abdominal infections of different origins is lower in comparison with healthy individuals. Despite the fact that we did not detect any statistically significant differences in the level of IL-8 in serum in IAI of different origin in the perioperative period, its lowest index was observed in the patients with postoperative abscesses on the 5th–7th days after surgical intervention. The levels of serum IL-8 ≤49.71 pg/mL and ≤48.88 pg/mL may serve as diagnostic markers for primary and postoperative abscesses with significant sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: Our results differ from previous studies that showed high serum IL-8. High-quality clinical trials are needed to better comprehend the role of inflammatory mediators in IAI with different origin.
The Root Endophytic Fungi Community Structure of Pennisetum sinese from Four Representative Provinces in China
Authors: Deng Zhen-Shan , Liu Xiao-Dong , Zhang Bao-Cheng , Jiao Shuo , Qi Xiang-Ying , Sun Zhi-Hong , He Xiao-Long , Liu Yu-Zhen , Li Jing , Chen Kai-Kai , Lin Zhan-Xi , Jiang Ying-Ying
Published: September 2019

Pennisetum sinese is a good forage grass with high biomass production and crude proteins. However, little is known about the endophytic fungi diversity of P. sinese, which might play an important role in the plant’s growth and biomass production. Here, we used high throughput sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequences based on primers ITS5-1737 and ITS2-2043R to investigate the endophytic fungi diversity of P. sinese roots at the maturity stage, as collected from four provinces (Shaanxi province, SX; Fujian province, FJ; the Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous prefecture, XJ and Inner Mongolia, including sand (NS) and saline-alkali land (NY), China). The ITS sequences were processed using QIIME and R software. A total of 374,875 effective tags were obtained, and 708 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were yielded with 97% identity in the five samples. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the two dominant phyla in the five samples, and the genera Khuskia and Heydenia were the most abundant in the FJ and XJ samples, respectively, while the most abundant tags in the other three samples could not be annotated at the genus level. In addition, our study revealed that the FJ sample possessed the highest OTU numbers (242) and the NS sample had the lowest (86). Moreover, only 22 OTUs were present in all samples simultaneously. The beta diversity analysis suggested a division of two endophytic fungi groups: the FJ sample from the south of China and the other four samples from north or northwest China. Correlation analysis between the environmental factors and endophytic fungi at the class level revealed that Sordariomycetes and Pucciniomycetes had extremely significant positive correlations with the total carbon, annual average precipitation, and annual average temperature, while Leotiomycetes showed an extremely significant negative correlation with quick acting potassium. The results revealed significant differences in the root endophytic fungi diversity of P. sinese in different provinces and might be useful for growth promotion and biomass production in the future.
Joint Inversion of 2D Gravity Gradiometry and Magnetotelluric Data in Mineral Exploration
Authors: Zhang Rongzhe , Li Tonglin
Published: September 2019

We have developed a mineral exploration method for the joint inversion of 2D gravity gradiometry and magnetotelluric (MT) data based on data-space and normalized cross-gradient constraints. To accurately explore the underground structure of complex mineral deposits and solve the problems such as the non-uniqueness and inconsistency of the single parameter inversion model, it is now common practice to perform collocated MT and gravity surveys that complement each other in the search. Although conventional joint inversion of MT and gravity using model-space can be diagnostic, we posit that better results can be derived from the joint inversion of the MT and gravity gradiometry data using data-space. Gravity gradiometry data contains more abundant component information than traditional gravity data and can be used to classify the spatial structure and location of underground structures and field sources more accurately and finely, and the data-space method consumes less memory and has a shorter computation time for our particular inversion iteration algorithm. We verify our proposed method with synthetic models. The experimental results prove that our proposed method leads to models with remarkable structural resemblance and improved estimates of electrical resistivity and density and requires shorter computation time and less memory. We also apply the method to field data to test its potential use for subsurface lithofacies discrimination or structural classification. Our results suggest that the imaging method leads to improved characterization of geological targets, which is more conducive to geological interpretation and the exploration of mineral resources.
Protolysis and Complex Formation of Organophosphorus Compounds—Characterization by NMR-Controlled Titrations
Authors: Hägele Gerhard
Published: September 2019

Phosphonic acids, aminophosphonic acids, and phosphonocarboxylic acids are characterized by an advanced hyphenated technique, combining potentiometric titration with NMR spectroscopy. Automated measurements involving 13C, 19F and 31P nuclei lead to “pseudo 2D NMR” spectra, where chemical shifts or coupling constants are correlated with analytical parameters. Dissociation constants, stability constants, dynamic and specific chemical shifts are determined. Macroscopic and microscopic dissociation equilibria are discussed.
A Three-Step, Gram-Scale Synthesis of Hydroxytyrosol, Hydroxytyrosol Acetate, and 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylglycol
Authors: Kalampaliki Amalia D. , Giannouli Vassiliki , Skaltsounis Alexios-Leandros , Kostakis Ioannis K.
Published: September 2019

Hydroxytyrosol and two other polyphenols of olive tree, hydroxytyrosol acetate and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol, are known for a wide range of beneficial activities in human health and prevention from diseases. The inability to isolate high, pure amounts of these natural compounds and the difficult and laborious procedures for the synthesis of them led us to describe herein an efficient, easy, cheap, and scaling up synthetic procedure, from catechol, via microwave irradiation.
Antimicrobial Activity and Proposed Action Mechanism of 3-Carene against Brochothrix thermosphacta and Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Shu Huizhen , Chen Haiming , Wang Xiaolong , Hu Yueying , Yun Yonghuan , Zhong Qiuping , Chen Weijun , Chen Wenxue
Published: September 2019

3-Carene is an antimicrobial monoterpene that occurs naturally in a variety of plants and has an ambiguous antibacterial mechanism against food-borne germs. The antibacterial effects and action mechanism of 3-carene against Gram-positive Brochothrix thermosphacta ACCC 03870 and Gram-negative Pseudomonas fluorescens ATCC 13525 were studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination and leakage of alkaline phosphatase (AKP) verified that 3-carene caused more obvious damage to the morphology and wall structure of B. thermosphacta than P. fluorescens. The release of potassium ions and proteins, the reduction in membrane potential (MP), and fluorescein diacetate (FDA) staining further confirmed that the loss of the barrier function of the cell membrane and the leakage of cytoplasmic contents were due to the 3-carene treatment. Furthermore, the disorder of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), pyruvate kinase (PK), and ATP content indicated that 3-carene could lead to metabolic dysfunction and inhibit energy synthesis. In addition, the results from the fluorescence analysis revealed that 3-carene could probably bind to bacterial DNA and affect the conformation and structure of genomic DNA. These results revealed that 3-carene had strong antibacterial activity against B. thermosphacta and P. fluorescens via membrane damage, bacterial metabolic perturbations, and genomic DNA structure disruption, interfering in cellular functions and even causing cell death.
Tailoring IGZO Composition for Enhanced Fully Solution-Based Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Moreira Marco , Carlos Emanuel , Dias Carlos , Deuermeier Jonas , Pereira Maria , Barquinha Pedro , Branquinho Rita , Martins Rodrigo , Fortunato Elvira
Published: September 2019

Solution-processed metal oxides have been investigated as an alternative to vacuum-based oxides to implement low-cost, high-performance electronic devices on flexible transparent substrates. However, their electrical properties need to be enhanced to apply at industrial scale. Amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide (a-IGZO) is the most-used transparent semiconductor metal oxide as an active channel layer in thin-film transistors (TFTs), due to its superior electrical properties. The present work evaluates the influence of composition, thickness and ageing on the electrical properties of solution a-IGZO TFTs, using solution combustion synthesis method, with urea as fuel. After optimizing the semiconductor properties, low-voltage TFTs were obtained by implementing a back-surface passivated 3-layer In:Ga:Zn 3:1:1 with a solution-processed high-к dielectric; AlOx. The devices show saturation mobility of 3.2 cm2 V−1 s−1, IOn/IOff of 106, SS of 73 mV dec−1 and VOn of 0.18 V, thus demonstrating promising features for low-cost circuit applications.
Zingiber officinale Extract (ZOE) Incorporated with Layered Double Hydroxide Hybrid through Reconstruction to Preserve Antioxidant Activity of ZOE against Ultrasound and Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Kim Hyoung-Jun , Lee Su-Bin , Choi Ae-Jin , Oh Jae-Min
Published: September 2019

We prepared Zingiber officinale extract (ZOE) incorporated in a layered double hydroxide (LDH) hybrid through a reconstruction method in order to preserve the antioxidant activity of ZOE from ultrasound and microwave irradiation. X-ray patterns, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy suggested that ZOE moieties were encapsulated in the interparticle space of reconstructed LDH, thus preserving its intact structure. Dynamic light scattering and zeta-potential measurement also supported the hypothesis that ZOE moieties were located in the interparticle pore of LDH rather than at the surface of LDH particles. Thermogravimetry analysis revealed that thermal stability of encapsulated ZOE could be enhanced by LDH encapsulation. Radical scavenging assay showed that antioxidant activity of ZOE–LDH hybrid was increased after ultrasound and microwave irradiation, while ZOE itself dramatically lost its antioxidant activity upon ultrasound and microwave treatment.
Green Micro- and Nanoemulsions for Managing Parasites, Vectors and Pests
Authors: Pavoni Lucia , Pavela Roman , Cespi Marco , Bonacucina Giulia , Maggi Filippo , Zeni Valeria , Canale Angelo , Lucchi Andrea , Bruschi Fabrizio , Benelli Giovanni
Published: September 2019

The management of parasites, insect pests and vectors requests development of novel, effective and eco-friendly tools. The development of resistance towards many drugs and pesticides pushed scientists to look for novel bioactive compounds endowed with multiple modes of action, and with no risk to human health and environment. Several natural products are used as alternative/complementary approaches to manage parasites, insect pests and vectors due to their high efficacy and often limited non-target toxicity. Their encapsulation into nanosystems helps overcome some hurdles related to their physicochemical properties, for instance limited stability and handling, enhancing the overall efficacy. Among different nanosystems, micro- and nanoemulsions are easy-to-use systems in terms of preparation and industrial scale-up. Different reports support their efficacy against parasites of medical importance, including Leishmania, Plasmodium and Trypanosoma as well as agricultural and stored product insect pests and vectors of human diseases, such as Aedes and Culex mosquitoes. Overall, micro- and nanoemulsions are valid options for developing promising eco-friendly tools in pest and vector management, pending proper field validation. Future research on the improvement of technical aspects as well as chronic toxicity experiments on non-target species is needed.
Does the Metabolically Healthy Obese Phenotype Protect Adults with Class III Obesity from Biochemical Alterations Related to Bone Metabolism?
Authors: Marques Loureiro Ligiane , Lessa Suzane , Mendes Rodrigo , Pereira Sílvia , Saboya Carlos José , Ramalho Andrea
Published: September 2019

Obesity negatively affects the relationship between markers and micronutrients of bone metabolism. Testing the hypothesis that the metabolically healthy obese phenotype might be protected by those alterations was the aim of this study. A cross-sectional study was carried out in adults with class III obesity classified in Metabolically Healthy Obese (MHO) and Metabolically Unhealthy Obese (MUHO), according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical variables were analyzed for sample characterization. To evaluate bone metabolism, markers (alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone—PTH) and related nutrients (vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and zinc) were analyzed. A total of 223 adults with class III obesity aged 41.20 ± 10.15 years were included. The MHO phenotype was identified in 32.73% of the sample. After logistic regression, it was observed that inadequacies of calcium (OR: 4.11; 95% CI: 2.33–6.66), phosphorus (OR: 3.03; 95% CI: 1.98–5.79), vitamin D (OR: 5.01; 95% CI: 2.92–6.71) and PTH (OR: 5.45; 95% CI: 4.49–6.74) were significantly higher in the MUHO group compared to the MHO Group. This study showed that the MHO phenotype does not protect adults from alterations in markers and micronutrients of bone metabolism. However, the MUHO phenotype presents a higher risk for alterations related to bone metabolism, which can favor the emergence of metabolic bone diseases.