bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On a Length Problem for Univalent Functions
Authors: Nunokawa Mamoru , Sokół Janusz , Cho Nak Eun
Published: November 2018

Let g be an analytic function with the normalization in the open unit disk. Let L ( r ) be the length of g ( { z : | z | = r } ) . In this paper we present a correspondence between g and L ( r ) for the case when g is not necessary univalent. Furthermore, some other results related to the length of analytic functions are also discussed.
On Domain of Nörlund Matrix
Authors: Kayaduman Kuddusi , Yaşar Fevzi
Published: November 2018

In 1978, the domain of the Nörlund matrix on the classical sequence spaces lp and l∞ was introduced by Wang, where 1 ≤ p < ∞. Tuğ and Başar studied the matrix domain of Nörlund mean on the sequence spaces f0 and f in 2016. Additionally, Tuğ defined and investigated a new sequence space as the domain of the Nörlund matrix on the space of bounded variation sequences in 2017. In this article, we defined new space b s ( N t ) and c s ( N t ) and examined the domain of the Nörlund mean on the bs and cs, which are bounded and convergent series, respectively. We also examined their inclusion relations. We defined the norms over them and investigated whether these new spaces provide conditions of Banach space. Finally, we determined their α-, β-, γ-duals, and characterized their matrix transformations on this space and into this space.
Identifying the Informational/Signal Dimension in Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Camiz Sergio , Pillar Valério
Published: November 2018

The identification of a reduced dimensional representation of the data is among the main issues of exploratory multidimensional data analysis and several solutions had been proposed in the literature according to the method. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is the method that has received the largest attention thus far and several identification methods—the so-called stopping rules—have been proposed, giving very different results in practice, and some comparative study has been carried out. Some inconsistencies in the previous studies led us to try to fix the distinction between signal from noise in PCA—and its limits—and propose a new testing method. This consists in the production of simulated data according to a predefined eigenvalues structure, including zero-eigenvalues. From random populations built according to several such structures, reduced-size samples were extracted and to them different levels of random normal noise were added. This controlled introduction of noise allows a clear distinction between expected signal and noise, the latter relegated to the non-zero eigenvalues in the samples corresponding to zero ones in the population. With this new method, we tested the performance of ten different stopping rules. Of every method, for every structure and every noise, both power (the ability to correctly identify the expected dimension) and type-I error (the detection of a dimension composed only by noise) have been measured, by counting the relative frequencies in which the smallest non-zero eigenvalue in the population was recognized as signal in the samples and that in which the largest zero-eigenvalue was recognized as noise, respectively. This way, the behaviour of the examined methods is clear and their comparison/evaluation is possible. The reported results show that both the generalization of the Bartlett’s test by Rencher and the Bootstrap method by Pillar result much better than all others: both are accounted for reasonable power, decreasing with noise, and very good type-I error. Thus, more than the others, these methods deserve being adopted.
Investigation of Different Molecular Weight Fucoidan Fractions Derived from New Zealand Undaria pinnatifida in Combination with GroA Therapy in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Yang Xu , Wang Sheng , Trangle Sari Schokoroy , Li Yan , White William Lindsey , Li Jinyao , Ying Tianlei , Kong Qingjun , Zhao Yu , Lu Jun
Published: November 2018

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweeds, has been shown to possess various antioxidant, anticoagulant, antiviral, and anticancer functions. In this study, we focused on low molecular weight fucoidan (LMWF) which was extracted from New Zealand Undaria pinnatifida, and investigated its anti-proliferative effects, combined with a quadruplex-forming oligonucleotide aptamer (GroA, AS1411), a powerful cell surface Nucleolin inhibitor, in prostate cancer cells. We examined LMWF (<10 kDa) and compared it with laboratory grade Fucoidan purchased from Sigma (FS), all extracted from the same seaweed species U. pinnatifida. We found that LMWF significantly improved the anti-proliferative effect of GroA, as it decreased cancer cell growth and viability and increased cell death. This research may provide the foundation for LMWF to be used against prostate cancers as a supplement therapy in combination with other therapeutic agents.
Cacolides: Sesterterpene Butenolides from a Southern Australian Marine Sponge, Cacospongia sp.
Authors: Khushi Shamsunnahar , Nahar Laizuman , Salim Angela A. , Capon Robert J.
Published: November 2018

Chemical analysis of a marine sponge, Cacospongia sp. (CMB-03404), obtained during deep sea commercial fishing activities off the southern coast of Australia, yielded an unprecedented family of sesterterpene α-methyl-γ-hydroxybutenolides, cacolides A–L (1–12), together with biosynthetically related norsesterterpene carboxylic acids, cacolic acids A–C (13–15). Structures were assigned on the basis of detailed spectroscopic analysis with comparisons to known natural products and biosynthetic considerations. In addition to revealing new chemical diversity, this study provided a valuable platform for comparing and contrasting the capabilities of the traditional dereplication technologies of HPLC-DAD, HPLC-MS and NMR, with those of the emerging HPLC-MS/MS approach known as global natural products social molecular networking (GNPS), as applied to marine sponge sesterterpene tetronic acids.
Nanostructured Cobalt Obtained by Combining Bottom-Up and Top-Down Approach
Authors: Cabibbo Marcello
Published: November 2018

Nanostructured metallic materials can be obtained by two major processing strategies: a bottom-up approach that starts with powdered metals to be mechanically and chemically compacted via different compaction methodologies, and a top-down approach that starts with bulk conventional metallic materials that are induced to a sometimes-extraordinary grain size reduction via different severe plastic deformation (SPD) methods. In the present study, a dual strategy was followed to obtain a sound and stable nanostructured commercially pure cobalt. Powdered cobalt of 2 μm was compacted by ball-milling (BM) followed by spark-plasma sintering (SPS) to obtain a bulk metallic material whose relative mass density reached a value of 95.8%. This process constituted a bottom-up strategy to obtain ultrafine submicrometer-grained bulk cobalt, and a top-down strategy of subjecting the BM + SPS submicrometer-grained cobalt to a specific SPD technique, namely equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP). The latter was carried out in one to four passes following so-called route BC, reaching 98.4% density and a nanometric-grained microstructure. The material was microstructurally and mechanically characterized by TEM (transmission electron microscope) and nanoindentation. The obtained results are a representative solid example for obtaining nanostructured metallic materials using both grain-refining strategies, bottom-up and top-down.
New Insight on the Hydrogen Absorption Evolution of the Mg–Fe–H System under Equilibrium Conditions
Authors: Puszkiel Julián , Castro Riglos M. Victoria , Ramallo-López José M. , Mizrahi Martin , Gemming Thomas , Pistidda Claudio , Arneodo Larochette Pierre , Bellosta von Colbe José , Klassen Thomas , Dornheim Martin , Gennari Fabiana
Published: November 2018

Mg2FeH6 is regarded as potential hydrogen and thermochemical storage medium due to its high volumetric hydrogen (150 kg/m3) and energy (0.49 kWh/L) densities. In this work, the mechanism of formation of Mg2FeH6 under equilibrium conditions is thoroughly investigated applying volumetric measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES), and the combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). Starting from a 2Mg:Fe stoichiometric powder ratio, thorough characterizations of samples taken at different states upon hydrogenation under equilibrium conditions confirm that the formation mechanism of Mg2FeH6 occurs from elemental Mg and Fe by columnar nucleation of the complex hydride at boundaries of the Fe seeds. The formation of MgH2 is enhanced by the presence of Fe. However, MgH2 does not take part as intermediate for the formation of Mg2FeH6 and acts as solid-solid diffusion barrier which hinders the complete formation of Mg2FeH6. This work provides novel insight about the formation mechanism of Mg2FeH6.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Strengthening Mechanism Analysis in an AlMg5 Aluminium Alloy Processed by ECAP and Subsequent Ageing
Authors: Snopiński Przemysław , Król Mariusz
Published: November 2018

A coarse-grained microstructure of solution treated AlMg5 aluminium alloy was prepared by equal channel angular pressing through route BC. Microstructure evolution of the alloy was analysed by using an optical microscope, X-ray diffraction, and EBSD (electron backscatter diffraction). The results reported that grains were refined due to the interactions of shear bands with low-to-moderate grain boundaries, and this structure was transformed into a bimodal after ageing at 180 °C for 4 h. Moreover, the results of the tensile testing showed that the yield strength was increased from 110 to 326 MPa, and the corresponding tensile strength increased from 269 to 395 MPa, maintaining an appropriate elongation of ~18%. After ageing at 180 °C elongation increased to 23% and the sample still kept high yield strength of 255 MPa, which may be associated with the mutual influence of the dislocation density decrease and recrystallization processes.
A Set of Platforms with Combinatorial and High-Throughput Technique for Gas Sensing, from Material to Device and to System
Authors: Mao Zhenghao , Wang Jianchao , Gong Youjin , Yang Heng , Zhang Shunping
Published: November 2018

In a new E-nose development, the sensor array needs to be optimized to have enough sensitivity and selectivity for gas/odor classification in the application. The development process includes the preparation of gas sensitive materials, gas sensor fabrication, array optimization, sensor array package and E-nose system integration, which would take a long time to complete. A set of platforms including a gas sensing film parallel synthesis platform, high-throughput gas sensing unmanned testing platform and a handheld wireless E-nose system were presented in this paper to improve the efficiency of a new E-nose development. Inkjet printing was used to parallel synthesize sensor libraries (400 sensors can be prepared each time). For gas sensor selection and array optimization, a high-throughput unmanned testing platform was designed and fabricated for gas sensing measurements of more than 1000 materials synchronously. The structures of a handheld wireless E-nose system with low power were presented in detail. Using the proposed hardware platforms, a new E-nose development might only take one week.
Modulation of Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli Survival and Virulence in the Human Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Jubelin Grégory , Desvaux Mickaël , Schüller Stephanie , Etienne-Mesmin Lucie , Muniesa Maite , Blanquet-Diot Stéphanie
Published: November 2018

Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) is a major foodborne pathogen responsible for human diseases ranging from diarrhoea to life-threatening complications. Survival of the pathogen and modulation of virulence gene expression along the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) are key features in bacterial pathogenesis, but remain poorly described, due to a paucity of relevant model systems. This review will provide an overview of the in vitro and in vivo studies investigating the effect of abiotic (e.g., gastric acid, bile, low oxygen concentration or fluid shear) and biotic (e.g., gut microbiota, short chain fatty acids or host hormones) parameters of the human gut on EHEC survival and/or virulence (especially in relation with motility, adhesion and toxin production). Despite their relevance, these studies display important limitations considering the complexity of the human digestive environment. These include the evaluation of only one single digestive parameter at a time, lack of dynamic flux and compartmentalization, and the absence of a complex human gut microbiota. In a last part of the review, we will discuss how dynamic multi-compartmental in vitro models of the human gut represent a novel platform for elucidating spatial and temporal modulation of EHEC survival and virulence along the GIT, and provide new insights into EHEC pathogenesis.
Mineralogical and Geochemical Constraints on Magma Evolution and Late-Stage Crystallization History of the Breivikbotn Silicocarbonatite, Seiland Igneous Province in Northern Norway: Prerequisites for Zeolite Deposits in Carbonatite Complexes
Authors: Zozulya Dmitry R. , Kullerud Kåre , Ravna Erling K. , Savchenko Yevgeny E. , Selivanova Ekaterina A. , Timofeeva Marina G.
Published: November 2018

The present work reports on new mineralogical and whole-rock geochemical data from the Breivikbotn silicocarbonatite (Seiland igneous province, North Norway), allowing conclusions to be drawn concerning its origin and the role of late fluid alteration. The rock shows a rare mineral association: calcite + pyroxene + amphibole + zeolite group minerals + garnet + titanite, with apatite, allanite, magnetite and zircon as minor and accessory minerals, and it is classified as silicocarbonatite. Calcite, titanite and pyroxene (Di36–46 Acm22–37 Hd14–21) are primarily magmatic minerals. Amphibole of mainly hastingsitic composition has formed after pyroxene at a late-magmatic stage. Zeolite group minerals (natrolite, gonnardite, Sr-rich thomsonite-(Ca)) were formed during hydrothermal alteration of primary nepheline by fluids/solutions with high Si-Al-Ca activities. Poikilitic garnet (Ti-bearing andradite) has inclusions of all primary minerals, amphibole and zeolites, and presumably crystallized metasomatically during a late metamorphic event (Caledonian orogeny). Whole-rock chemical compositions of the silicocarbonatite differs from the global average of calciocarbonatites by elevated silica, aluminium, sodium and iron, but show comparable contents of trace elements (REE, Sr, Ba). Trace element distributions and abundances indicate within-plate tectonic setting of the carbonatite. The spatial proximity of carbonatite and alkaline ultramafic rock (melteigite), the presence of “primary nepheline” in carbonatite together with the trace element distributions indicate that the carbonatite was derived by crystal fractionation of a parental carbonated foidite magma. The main prerequisites for the extensive formation of zeolite group minerals in silicocarbonatite are revealed.
Tuning Texture and Morphology of Mesoporous TiO2 by Non-Hydrolytic Sol-Gel Syntheses
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Bouchneb Maroua , Alauzun Johan G. , Mutin P. Hubert
Published: November 2018

The development of powerful synthetic methodologies is paramount in the design of advanced nanostructured materials. Owing to its remarkable properties and low cost, nanostructured TiO2 is widely investigated for applications such as photocatalysis, energy conversion or energy storage. In this article we report the synthesis of mesoporous TiO2 by three different non-hydrolytic sol-gel routes, and we investigate the influence of the synthetic route and of the presence and nature of the solvent on the structure, texture and morphology of the materials. The first route is the well-known ether route, based on the reaction of TiCl4 with iPr2O. The second and third routes, which have not been previously described for the synthesis of mesoporous TiO2, involve the reaction of Ti(OiPr)4 with stoichiometric amounts of acetophenone and benzoic anhydride, respectively. All materials are characterized by XRD, N2 physisorption and SEM. By playing with the non-hydrolytic route used and the reaction conditions (presence of a solvent, nature of the solvent, calcination), it is possible to tune the morphology and texture of the TiO2. Depending on the reaction conditions, a large variety of mesoporous TiO2 nanostructures could be obtained, resulting from the spontaneous aggregation of TiO2 nanoparticles, either rounded nanoparticles, platelets or nanorods. These nanoparticle networks exhibited a specific surface area up to 250 m2 g−1 before calcination, or up to 110 m2 g−1 after calcination.
Effect of Pentacyclic Triterpenoids-Rich Callus Extract of Chaenomeles japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. ex Spach on Viability, Morphology, and Proliferation of Normal Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Kikowska Małgorzata Anna , Chmielewska Małgorzata , Włodarczyk Agata , Studzińska-Sroka Elżbieta , Żuchowski Jerzy , Stochmal Anna , Kotwicka Małgorzata , Thiem Barbara
Published: November 2018

The effect of the well-characterized callus extract of Chaenomeles japonica on viability, morphology, and proliferation of normal human skin fibroblasts was investigated. The phytochemical analysis was performed using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography method. The total phenolic, phenolic acid, and flavonoid contents were determined spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was investigated using the DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl Radical Scavenging), FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), and CUPRAC (CUPric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity) assays. The callus growth index during passages was high as well as the content of pentacyclic triterpenoids. The microscopic observations of the fibroblast viability, morphology and the evaluation of the proliferation ratio (xCELLigence system) proved that the influence of callus extract on the fibroblasts was dose-dependent. The evaluated level of fibroblasts proliferation rate after 72 h of incubation with callus extract at concentration 12.5 µg L−1 was the highest compared to all the analyzed ligands. Moreover, callus extract administrated for 72 h caused a significant increase in the proliferation rate in comparison with the control group (5.7 ± 0.1 vs. 4.4 ± 0.9; p < 0.01). The preliminary studies carried out may suggest that the callus extract rich in triterpenoids may be a potential source of cosmetic ingredients with a beneficial effect on human skin.
Synthesis of 1-(para-methoxyphenyl)tetrazolyl-Substituted 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroisoquinolines and Their Transformations Involving Activated Alkynes
Authors: Titov Alexander A. , Samavati Reza , Alexandrova Elena V. , Borisova Tatiana N. , Dang Thi Tuyet Anh , Nguyen Van Tuyen , Le Tuan Anh , Varlamov Alexey V. , Van der Eycken Erik V. , Voskressensky Leonid G.
Published: November 2018

1-(p-Methoxyphenyl)tetrazolyl-substituted 6,7-dimethoxy(6,7-methylenedioxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines formed tetrazolyl-substituted azocines in high yields by using activated alkynes. Unsubstituted at 6,7,8-aromatic fragment 1-tetrazolylisoquinoline interacted in several pathways forming tetrazolyl-substituted azocines, 1-tetrazolyl-1-R-vinylisoquinolines and 3-azaspiro[5.5]undeca-1,7,9-triene.
Determination of Tryptophan and Its Major Metabolites in Fluid from the Anterior Chamber of the Eye in Diabetic Patients with Cataract by Liquid Chromotography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Authors: Flieger Jolanta , Święch-Zubilewicz Anna , Śniegocki Tomasz , Dolar-Szczasny Joanna , Pizoń Magdalena
Published: November 2018

Tryptophan (TRP) is to an essential amino acid and its catabolites are significant to human health. By using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS), levels of three major components of kynurenic pathway namely tryptophan (TRP), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and kynurenine (KYN) in fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye were determined. The analysis was carried out on a Synergi 4 μ Fusion-RP column using gradient elution mode. For quantitative determination, l-tryptophan-amino-15N, 99 ATOM % 15N was used as an internal standard. The method was linear in the concentration range 4–2000 ng mL−1 for TRP, KYNA and KYN. The mean recoveries measured at four concentration levels for TRP, KYN and KYNA included the following ranges 94.3–96.1; 91.0–95.0; and 96.0–97.6%, respectively. The intra-day precision parameters were smaller than 4.4, 6.4 and 5% respectively. The developed method was applied to study the level of TRP, KYNA and KYN in eye fluid for the retrospective case series which included 28 patients suffering from cataracts and diabetes (n = 8). The experimental data was subjected to statistical analysis. The Mann-Whitney U-test revealed clear differences in the level of TRP catabolites and the ratios of TRP/KYN representing the activities of specific enzyme of kynurenine pathway in examined groups of patients. A level of probability p < 0.05 was used throughout a paper to denote statistically significant differences between the groups.
Synthesis of Pyridazine Derivatives by Suzuki-Miyaura Cross-Coupling Reaction and Evaluation of Their Optical and Electronic Properties through Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Fernandes Sara S. M. , Aires-de-Sousa João , Belsley Michael , Raposo M. Manuela M.
Published: November 2018

A series of π-conjugated molecules, based on pyridazine and thiophene heterocycles 3a–e, were synthesized using commercially, or readily available, coupling components, through a palladium catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction. The electron-deficient pyridazine heterocycle was functionalized by a thiophene electron-rich heterocycle at position six, and different (hetero)aromatic moieties (phenyl, thienyl, furanyl) were functionalized with electron acceptor groups at position three. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to obtain information on the conformation, electronic structure, electron distribution, dipolar moment, and molecular nonlinear response of the synthesized push-pull pyridazine derivatives. Hyper-Rayleigh scattering in 1,4-dioxane solutions, using a fundamental wavelength of 1064 nm, was used to evaluate their second-order nonlinear optical properties. The thienylpyridazine functionalized with the cyano-phenyl moiety exhibited the largest first hyperpolarizability (β = 175 × 10−30 esu, using the T convention) indicating its potential as a second harmonic generation (SHG) chromophore.
Production of Omegas-6 and 9 from the Hydrolysis of Açaí and Buriti Oils by Lipase Immobilized on a Hydrophobic Support
Authors: Pérez Malena , Gonçalves Enrico , Salgado Jose , Rocha Mariana , Almeida Paula , Vici Ana , Infante Juliana , Guisán Jose , Rocha-Martin Javier , Pessela Benevides , Polizeli Maria
Published: November 2018

This paper describes a bioprocess to obtain omegas-6 and 9 from the hydrolysis of Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Martius) and Buriti (Mauritia flexuosa) oils by lipases immobilized on octyl-sepharose. For this, oils and butters were initially selected as the carbon source which resulted in higher production of lipases in Beauveria bassiana and Fusarium oxysporum cultures. The carbon source that provided secretion of lipase by B. bassiana was Açaí oil, and for F. oxysporum, Bacuri butter. Lipases obtained under these conditions were immobilized on octyl-sepharose, and both, the derivatives and the crude extracts were biochemically characterized. It was observed that the immobilization promoted an increase of stability in B. bassiana and F. oxysporum lipase activities at the given temperatures and pH. In addition, the immobilization promoted hyperactivation of B. bassiana and F. oxysporum lipase activities being 23.5 and 11.0 higher than free enzyme, respectively. The hydrolysis of Açaí and Buriti oils by the derivatives was done in a biphasic (organic/aqueous) system, and the products were quantified in RP-HPLC. The results showed the potential of these immobilized lipases to obtain omegas-6 and 9 from Brazilian natural oils. This work may improve the enzymatic methodologies for obtaining foods and drugs enriched with fatty acids.
Analysis of Hazardous Elements in Children Toys: Multi-Elemental Determination by Chromatography and Spectrometry Methods
Authors: Karaś Katarzyna , Frankowski Marcin
Published: November 2018

This paper presents the results of determination of hazardous metal (Cd, Cu, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) and metalloid (As, Sb) levels in toys available in the Polish market. Two independent sample preparation methods were used to determine the concentration and content of the metals and metalloids. The first one is defined by the guidelines of the EN-71 standard and undertook extraction in 0.07 mol/L HCl. This method was used to conduct speciation analysis of Cr(III) and Cr(VI), as well as for the determination of selected metals and metalloids. The second method conducted mineralization in a HNO3 and H2O2 mixture using microwave energy to determine the content of metals and metalloids. Determination of chromium forms was made using the high-performance liquid chromatography inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) method, while those of metals and metalloids were made using the ICP-MS technique. Additionally, in order to determine total content of chromium in toys, an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (EDX) was used. The results of the analyses showed that Cr(VI) was not detected in the toys. In general, the content of heavy metals and metalloids in the studied samples was below the migration limit set by the norm EN-71.
Organophosphine-Catalyzed [4C+X] Annulations
Authors: Li Yangyan , Chen Xiang , Chen Xiaoming , Shen Xiao
Published: November 2018

In recent years, there have been extraordinary developments of organophosphine-catalyzed reactions. This includes progress in the area of [4C+X] annulations, which are of particular interest due to their potential for the rapid construction of 5–8-membered cyclic products. In this short overview, we summarize the remarkable progress, emphasizing reaction mechanisms and key intermediates involved in the processes. The discussion is classified according to the type of electrophilic reactants that acted as C4 synthons in the annulation process, in the order of α-alkyl allenoates, γ-alkyl allenoates, α-methyl allene ketones, β′-OAc allenoate, δ-OAc allenoate, activated dienes and cyclobutenones.
Conversion of Medium-Sized Lactams to α-Vinyl or α-Acetylenyl Azacycles via N,O-Acetal TMS Ethers
Authors: Kim Minjun , Jang Jaebong , Choi Goyoung , Chung Sungkyun , Lim Changjin , Hur Joonseong , Kim Hyun Su , Na Younghwa , Son Woo Sung , Suh Young-Ger , Jung Jong-Wha , Kim Seok-Ho
Published: November 2018

α-Vinyl or α-acetylenyl azacycles were easily synthesized from 7- to 9-membered lactams and 6- to 9-membered lactams via N,O-acetal trimethylsilyl (TMS) ethers. Organocopper and organostannane reagents afforded reasonable yields for the respective N-acyliminium ion vinylation and acetylenylation intermediates generated from N,O-acetal TMS ethers in the presence of a Lewis acid.
Chemometric Assessment and Best-Fit Function Modelling of the Toxic Potential of Selected Food Packaging Extracts
Authors: Kudłak Błażej , Szczepańska Natalia , Nedyalkova Miroslava , Simeonov Vasil , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: November 2018

Food packaging materials constitute an ever more threatening environmental pollutant. This study examined options to specifically assess the ecotoxicity of packaged wastes, such as cans, subjected to various experimental treatments (in terms of extraction media, time of exposure, and temperature) that imitate several basic conditions of the process of food production. The extracts were studied for their ecotoxicity with bioluminescent Vibrio fischeri bacteria. The first objective of this study was to find patterns of similarity between different experimental conditions; we used multivariate statistical methods, such as hierarchical cluster analysis, to interpret the impact of experimental conditions on the ecotoxicity signals of the package extracts. Our second objective was to apply best-fit function modelling for additional data interpretation, taking into account, that ecotoxicity for various temperature conditions is time- and temperature dependent. We mathematically confirmed that chemometric data treatment allows for better understanding how different experimental conditions imitating the real use of food packaging. We also demonstrate that the level of ecotoxicity depends on different extraction media, time of exposure, and temperature regime.
Hydrogen Production from Energy Poplar Preceded by MEA Pre-Treatment and Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Kucharska Karolina , Łukajtis Rafał , Słupek Edyta , Cieśliński Hubert , Rybarczyk Piotr , Kamiński Marian
Published: November 2018

The need to pre-treat lignocellulosic biomass prior to dark fermentation results primarily from the composition of lignocellulose because lignin hinders the processing of hard wood towards useful products. Hence, in this work a two-step approach for the pre-treatment of energy poplar, including alkaline pre-treatment and enzymatic saccharification followed by fermentation has been studied. Monoethanolamine (MEA) was used as the alkaline catalyst and diatomite immobilized bed enzymes were used during saccharification. The response surface methodology (RSM) method was used to determine the optimal alkaline pre-treatment conditions resulting in the highest values of both total released sugars (TRS) yield and degree of lignin removal. Three variable parameters (temperature, MEA concentration, time) were selected to optimize the alkaline pre-treatment conditions. The research was carried out using the Box-Behnken design. Additionally, the possibility of the re-use of both alkaline as well as enzymatic reagents was investigated. Obtained hydrolysates were subjected to dark fermentation in batch reactors performed by Enterobacter aerogenes ATCC 13048 with a final result of 22.99 mL H2/g energy poplar (0.6 mol H2/mol TRS).
Maritoclax Enhances TRAIL-Induced Apoptosis via CHOP-Mediated Upregulation of DR5 and miR-708-Mediated Downregulation of cFLIP
Authors: Jeon Mi-Yeon , Min Kyoung-jin , Woo Seon Min , Seo Seung Un , Choi Yung Hyun , Kim Sang Hyun , Kim Dong Eun , Lee Tae-Jin , Kim Shin , Park Jong-Wook , Kwon Taeg Kyu
Published: November 2018

Maritoclax, an active constituent isolated from marine bacteria, has been known to induce Mcl-1 downregulation through proteasomal degradation. In this study, we investigated the sensitizing effect of maritoclax on tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-induced apoptosis in human renal carcinoma cells. We found that combined treatment with maritoclax and TRAIL markedly induced apoptosis in renal carcinoma (Caki, ACHN and A498), lung cancer (A549) and hepatocellular carcinoma (SK-Hep1) cells. The upregulation of death receptor 5 (DR5) and downregulation of cellular FLICE-inhibitory protein (cFLIP) were involved in maritoclax plus TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Maritoclax-induced DR5 upregulation was regulated by induction of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression. Interestingly, maritoclax induced cFLIP downregulation through the increased expression of miR-708. Ectopic expression of cFLIP prevented combined maritoclax and TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Taken together, maritoclax sensitized TRAIL-induced apoptosis through CHOP-mediated DR5 upregulation and miR-708-mediated cFLIP downregulation.
A Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Highly Substituted Indeno[1,2-b]pyrrole and Acenaphtho[1,2-b]pyrrole Derivatives by Tandem Three-Component Reactions
Authors: Tang Xiaodong , Zhu Songlei , Ma Ying , Wen Ren , Cen Lanqi , Gong Panwei , Wang Jing
Published: November 2018

A green, convenient and tandem procedure for the efficient synthesis of highly substituted indeno[1,2-b]pyrrole and acenaphtho[1,2-b]pyrrole derivatives by domino three-component reaction of tryptamine/benzylamine, 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and ninhydrin/ acenaphthenequinone is described. The significant features of this procedure were characterized by mild reaction conditions, high yields, operational simplicity and it being environmentally benign.
Advancing the Use of High-Performance Graphene-Based Multimodal Polymer Nanocomposite at Scale
Authors: Ahmad Ibrahim A. , Koziol Krzysztof K. K. , Deveci Suleyman , Kim Hyun-Kyung , Kumar Ramachandran Vasant
Published: November 2018

The production of an innovative, high-performance graphene-based polymer nanocomposite using cost-effective techniques was pursued in this study. Well-dispersed and uniformly distributed graphene platelets within a polymer matrix, with strong interfacial bonding between the platelets and the matrix, provided an optimal nanocomposite system for industrial interest. This study reports on the reinforcement of high molecular weight multimodal-high-density polyethylene reinforced by a microwave-induced plasma graphene, using melt intercalation. The tailored process included designing a suitable screw configuration, paired with coordinating extruder conditions and blending techniques. This enabled the polymer to sufficiently degrade, predominantly through thermomechanical-degradation, as well as thermo-oxidative degradation, which subsequently created a suitable medium for the graphene sheets to disperse readily and distribute evenly within the polymer matrix. Different microscopy techniques were employed to prove the effectiveness. This was then qualitatively assessed by Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, rheology, mechanical testing, density measurements, thermal expansion, and thermogravimetric analysis, confirming both the originality as well as the effectiveness of the process.
Nanostructure Optimization of Platinum-Based Nanomaterials for Catalytic Applications
Authors: Duan Sibin , Du Zhe , Fan Hongsheng , Wang Rongming
Published: November 2018

Platinum-based nanomaterials have attracted much interest for their promising potentials in fields of energy-related and environmental catalysis. Designing and controlling the surface/interface structure of platinum-based nanomaterials at the atomic scale and understanding the structure-property relationship have great significance for optimizing the performances in practical catalytic applications. In this review, the strategies to obtain platinum-based catalysts with fantastic activity and great stability by composition regulation, shape control, three-dimension structure construction, and anchoring onto supports, are presented in detail. Moreover, the structure-property relationship of platinum-based nanomaterials are also exhibited, and a brief outlook are given on the challenges and possible solutions in future development of platinum-based nanomaterials towards catalytic reactions.
A Raman Imaging Approach Using CD47 Antibody-Labeled SERS Nanoparticles for Identifying Breast Cancer and Its Potential to Guide Surgical Resection
Authors: Davis Ryan M. , Campbell Jos L. , Burkitt Sean , Qiu Zhen , Kang Soyoung , Mehraein Mana , Miyasato Dominie , Salinas Helen , Liu Jonathan T. C. , Zavaleta Cristina
Published: November 2018

Raman spectroscopic imaging has shown great promise for improved cancer detection and localization with the use of tumor targeting surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoparticles. With the ultrasensitive detection and multiplexing capabilities that SERS imaging has to offer, scientists have been investigating several clinical applications that could benefit from this unique imaging strategy. Recently, there has been a push to develop new image-guidance tools for surgical resection to help surgeons sensitively and specifically identify tumor margins in real time. We hypothesized that SERS nanoparticles (NPs) topically applied to breast cancer resection margins have the potential to provide real-time feedback on the presence of residual cancer in the resection margins during lumpectomy. Here, we explore the ability of SERS nanoparticles conjugated with a cluster of differentiation-47 (CD47) antibody to target breast cancer. CD47 is a cell surface receptor that has recently been shown to be overexpressed on several solid tumor types. The binding potential of our CD47-labeled SERS nanoparticles was assessed using fluorescence assisted cell sorting (FACS) on seven different human breast cancer cell lines, some of which were triple negative (negative expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)). Xenograft mouse models were also used to assess the ability of our Raman imaging system to identify tumor from normal tissue. A ratiometric imaging strategy was used to quantify specific vs. nonspecific probe binding, resulting in improved tumor-to-background ratios. FACS analysis showed that CD47-labeled SERS nanoparticles bound to seven different breast cancer cell lines at levels 12-fold to 70-fold higher than isotype control-labeled nanoparticles (p < 0.01), suggesting that our CD47-targeted nanoparticles actively bind to CD47 on breast cancer cells. In a mouse xenograft model of human breast cancer, topical application of CD47-targeted nanoparticles to excised normal and cancer tissue revealed increased binding of CD47-targeted nanoparticles on tumor relative to normal adjacent tissue. The findings of this study support further investigation and suggest that SERS nanoparticles topically applied to breast cancer could guide more complete surgical resection during lumpectomy.
Efficient Removal of Lead, Copper and Cadmium Ions from Water by a Porous Calcium Alginate/Graphene Oxide Composite Aerogel
Authors: Pan Linhai , Wang Zhuqing , Yang Qi , Huang Rongyi
Published: November 2018

In this study, we fabricated a porous calcium alginate/graphene oxide composite aerogel by using polystyrene colloidal particles as sacrificial template and graphene oxide as a reinforcing filler. Owing to the excellent metal chelation ability of calcium alginate and controlled nanosized pore structure, the as-prepared calcium alginate/graphene oxide composite aerogel (mp-CA/GO) can reach the adsorption equilibrium in 40 min, and the maximum adsorption capacity for Pb2+, Cu2+ and Cd2+ is 368.2, 98.1 and 183.6 mg/g, respectively. This is higher than most of the reported heavy metal ion sorbents. Moreover, the mp-CA/GO can be regenerated through simple acid-washing and be used repeatedly with little loss in performance. The adsorption mechanism analysis indicates that the mp-CA/GO adsorb the heavy metal ions mainly through the ion exchange and chemical coordination effects.
Isolated Soy Protein Supplementation and Exercise Improve Fatigue-Related Biomarker Levels and Bone Strength in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Lin Che-Li , Lee Mon-Chien , Hsu Yi-Ju , Huang Wen-Ching , Huang Chi-Chang , Huang Shih-Wei
Published: November 2018

Isolated soy protein (ISP) is a well-known supplement and has been reported to improve health, exercise performance, body composition, and energy utilization. ISP exhibits multifunctional bioactivities and also contains branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which have been confirmed to positively affect body weight (BW) regulation and muscle protein synthesis. The combined effects of BCAA supplements and exercise in older postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and obesity have been inadequately investigated. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the potential beneficial effects of soy protein supplementation and exercise training on postmenopausal mice. Forty mice (14 weeks old) with ovariectomy-induced osteosarcopenic obesity were divided into five groups (n = 8), namely sham ovariectomy (OVX, control), OVX, OVX with ISP supplementation (OVX+ISP), OVX with exercise training (ET, OVX+ET), and OVX with ISP and ET (OVX+ISP+ET). The mice received a vehicle or soy protein (3.8 g/kg BW) by oral gavage for four weeks, and the exercise performance (forelimb grip strength and exhaustive swimming time) was evaluated. In the biochemical profiles, we evaluated the serum glucose level and tissue damage markers, such as lactate, ammonia, glucose, blood urine nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine phosphate kinase (CPK). The body composition was determined by evaluating bone stiffness and muscle mass. All data were analyzed using one-way repeated measures analysis of variance. The physical performance of the OVX+ISP+ET group did not differ from that of the other groups. The OVX+ISP+ET group exhibited lower levels of serum lactate, ammonia, CPK, and BUN as well as economized glucose metabolism after an acute exercise challenge. The OVX+ISP+ET group also exhibited higher muscle mass and bone strength than the OVX group. Our study demonstrated that a combination of ISP supplementation and exercise reduced fatigue and improved bone function in OVX mice.
Effects of High vs. Low Glycemic Index of Post-Exercise Meals on Sleep and Exercise Performance: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Counterbalanced Polysomnographic Study
Authors: Vlahoyiannis Angelos , Aphamis George , Andreou Eleni , Samoutis George , Sakkas Giorgos , Giannaki Christoforos
Published: November 2018

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of the glycemic index of post-exercise meals on sleep quality and quantity, and assess whether those changes could affect the next day’s exercise performance. Following a baseline/familiarization phase, 10 recreationally trained male volunteers (23.2 ± 1.8 years) underwent two double-blinded, randomized, counterbalanced crossover trials. In both trials, participants performed sprint interval training (SIT) in the evening. Post-exercise, participants consumed a meal with a high (HGI) or low (LGI) glycemic index. Sleep parameters were assessed by a full night polysomnography (PSG). The following morning, exercise performance was evaluated by the countermovement jump (CMJ) test, a visual reaction time (VRT) test and a 5-km cycling time trial (TT). Total sleep time (TST) and sleep efficiency were greater in the HGI trial compared to the LGI trial (p < 0.05), while sleep onset latency was shortened by four-fold (p < 0.05) and VRT decreased by 8.9% (p < 0.05) in the HGI trial compared to the LGI trial. The performance in both 5-km TT and CMJ did not differ between trials. A moderate to strong correlation was found between the difference in TST and the VRT between the two trials (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this is the first study to show that a high glycemic index meal, following a single spring interval training session, can improve both sleep duration and sleep efficiency, while reducing in parallel sleep onset latency. Those improvements in sleep did not affect jumping ability and aerobic endurance performance. In contrast, the visual reaction time performance increased proportionally to sleep improvements.
Gluten-Free Diet in Celiac Disease—Forever and for All?
Authors: Itzlinger Alice , Branchi Federica , Elli Luca , Schumann Michael
Published: November 2018

The gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment available for celiac disease. However, it is difficult to adhere to and a closer look on the diet’s implementation and indications reveals several ambiguities: Not only is there controversy on the threshold of gluten that can be tolerated in the frame of a strict gluten-free diet, but it is also unclear whether the gluten-free diet is an appropriate treatment in patient subgroups with asymptomatic or potential celiac disease. Reports from a number of research groups suggest that a certain proportion of patients may effectively develop tolerance to gluten and thus become suitable for gluten reintroduction over time. In this review, we set out to create an overview about the current state of research as regards the definition of a strict gluten-free diet in terms of the gluten thresholds considered tolerable and the indication for a gluten-free diet in the absence of histological abnormalities or symptoms. Furthermore, we discuss the concept that a gluten-free diet must be followed for life by all patients.
Role of Synbiotics Containing d-Allulose in the Alteration of Body Fat and Hepatic Lipids in Diet-Induced Obese Mice
Authors: Choi Bo-Ra , Kwon Eun-Young , Kim Hye-Jin , Choi Myung-Sook
Published: November 2018

The effects of allulose and two probiotic species on diet-induced obese (DIO) mice were investigated. Lactobacillus sakei LS03 (109 cfu/day) and Leuconostoc kimchii GJ2 (109 cfu/day) were used as probiotics, and allulose (AL) as a prebiotic. The synergistic effect of prebiotics and probiotics in improving obesity was evaluated. Orally fed Lactobacillus sakei LS03 (LS) or Leuconostoc kimchii GJ2 (GJ), significantly decreased hepatic triglyceride (TG) and fatty acid (FA) compared to the high-fat diet (HFD) control. AL markedly decreased visceral adiposity and pro-inflammatory adipokines (leptin and resistin) and cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β) as well as hepatic TG and FA. In addition, AL exerted synergic effects with probiotics (LS and/or GJ) on the reduction of visceral white adipose tissue (WAT), associated with a decreased leptin: adiponectin ratio. There was no significant differences between the AL-SL and AL group, allulose and GJ combination (AL-GJ) was more effective than allulose in improving dyslipidemia, and decreasing WAT weight and hepatic FA, suggesting allulose may act as a favorable prebiotic for GJ supplement than LS. Combination of allulose with LS and GJ supplementation (AL-LSGJ) was the most effective for improving obesity related complications among the synbiotics groups containing allulose. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the synbiotic mixture with allulose was more effective in suppressing diet-induced obese (DIO) and its complications via the regulation of lipid metabolism, than the probiotics or allulose alone, suggesting allulose may act as a prebiotic for the two probiotics tested in the study. This new synbiotic mixture with allulose may help ameliorate the deleterious effects of diet-induced obesity and contribute to the growth of the food industry.
In Vitro Anticancer Properties of Table Grape Powder Extract (GPE) in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kumar Avinash , D’silva Melinee , Dholakia Kshiti , Levenson Anait S.
Published: November 2018

Although the link between diet and cancer is complex, epidemiological data confirm that diet is a risk factor for prostate cancer and indicate a reduced prostate cancer incidence associated with a diet rich in vegetables and fruits. Because of the known protective effect of grape seed extract (GSE) against prostate cancer, we evaluated the effects of grape powder extract (GPE) on cell viability, proliferation, and metastatic capability. Importantly, we explored the possible novel mechanism of GPE through metastasis-associated protein 1 (MTA1) downregulation in prostate cancer, since our previous studies indicated resveratrol (Res)- and pterostilbene (Pter)-induced MTA1-mediated anticancer activities in prostate cancer. We found that GPE inhibited the cell viability and growth of prostate cancer cells only at high 100 μg/mL concentrations. However, at low 1.5–15 μg/mL concentrations, GPE significantly reduced the colony formation and wound healing capabilities of both DU145 and PC3M cells. Moreover, we found that GPE inhibited MTA1 in a dose-dependent manner in these cells, albeit with considerably less potency than Res and Pter. These results indicate that stilbenes such as Res and Pter specifically and potently inhibit MTA1 and MTA1-associated proteins compared to GPE, which contains low concentrations of Res and mainly consists of other flavonoids and anthocyanidins. Our findings support continued interest in GPE as a chemopreventive and anti-cancer agent against prostate cancer but also emphasize the unique and specific properties of stilbenes on MTA1-mediated anticancer effects on prostate cancer.