bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Cost-Efficient Task Positioning in Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Bożek Andrzej
Published: September 2020

A problem to determine a production schedule which minimises the cost of energy used for manufacturing is studied. The scenario assumes that each production task has assigned constant power consumption, price of power from conventional electrical grid system is defined by time-of-use tariffs, and a component of free of charge renewable energy is available for the manufacturing system. The objective is to find the most cost-efficient production plan, subject to constraints involving predefined precedence relationships between the tasks and a bounded makespan. Two independent optimisation approaches have been developed, based on significantly different paradigms, namely mixed-integer linear programming and tabu search metaheuristic. Both of them have been verified and compared in extensive computational experiments. The tabu search-based approach has turned out to be generally more efficient in the sense of the obtained objective function values, but advantages of the use of linear programming have also been identified. The results confirm that it is possible to develop efficient computational methods to optimise energy cost under circumstances typical of manufacturing companies. The set of numerous benchmark instances and their solutions have been archived and it can be reused in further research.
Diversity, Abundance, and Distribution of Wood-Decay Fungi in Major Parks of Hong Kong
Authors: Ding Shunping , Hu Hongli , Gu Ji-Dong
Published: September 2020

Wood-decay fungi are one of the major threats to the old and valuable trees in Hong Kong and constitute a main conservation and management challenge because they inhabit dead wood as well as living trees. The diversity, abundance, and distribution of wood-decay fungi associated with standing trees and stumps in four different parks of Hong Kong, including Hong Kong Park, Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Garden, Kowloon Park, and Hong Kong Observatory Grounds, were investigated. Around 4430 trees were examined, and 52 fungal samples were obtained from 44 trees. Twenty-eight species were identified from the samples and grouped into twelve families and eight orders. Phellinus noxius, Ganoderma gibbosum, and Auricularia polytricha were the most abundant species and occurred in three of the four parks. Most of the species were detected on old trees, indicating that older trees were more susceptible to wood-decay fungi than younger ones. More wood-decay fungal species were observed on Ficus microcarpa trees than on other tree species. These findings expanded the knowledge of wood-decay fungi in urban environments in Hong Kong and provided useful information for the conservation of old trees and the protection of human life and property from the danger of falling trees.
Timber Distribution Dynamics in Scientifically Managed Community Forests: Learning from Nepal
Authors: Bhusal Prabin , Karki Pawan , Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon
Published: September 2020

In a bid to address growing timber demand, irregular shelterwood system-based scientific forestry gained momentum in Nepal in 2000. While timber production, in general, is said to have witnessed an increase, the outcomes linked to equitable distribution among users remain unclear, suggesting the need for context-specific studies on the performance of scientific forestry in terms of timber distribution among users. Taking the case of the Western Terai Region of Nepal, this paper provides an in-depth analysis of the patterns and implications of timber distribution under community forestry systems where scientific forest management (SciFM) is practiced. The study deployed focus group discussions (n = 4), key informant interviews, and a review of timber distribution processes for the past six fiscal years (2013–2019), the periods before and after the implementation of SciFM. For data analysis, a deductive approach was used; analytical themes were framed along the lines of timber-harvesting trends, timber distribution structure and processes, and timber distribution patterns based on wellbeing. The study revealed a substantial increase in timber harvesting; considering the base year, harvest increased by 45% in the second year and by 56% in the third year. This was, however, characterized by a 40% decrease in the average volume of timber for users within the community forest user group. Ninety-seven percent of the timber produced in this system was distributed among middle- and high-class groups, with only 3% available for poor households—this puts to question the intended objective of providing sufficient timber, especially to poor users. The paper concludes that technocentric efforts linked to increasing timber sufficiency (e.g., through SciFM) have failed to address the needs of the poorest of the poor, as elite capture prevails. We also call for future studies to explore pathways to deal with the hydra-headed nature of elite capture.
Italian Response to Coronavirus Pandemic in Dental Care Access: The DeCADE Study
Authors: Aquilanti Luca , Gallegati Silvia , Temperini Valerio , Ferrante Luigi , Skrami Edlira , Procaccini Maurizio , Rappelli Giorgio
Published: September 2020

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the willingness, anxiety and concerns of Italian people on undergoing dental appointments. An anonymous survey was posted online on social media on 11 May 2020 and was completed by 1003 respondents in one week. Multiple correspondence analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to evaluate the association between socio-demographic characteristics, dental care access, contagion fear of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), trust in dentists regarding sanitization procedures and perception of the impact of the risk of contagion on dental care. Subjects with a high level of education, attending public dental offices and that are used to go to dental offices for urgent care would not feel comfortable in undergoing a dental appointment and would prefer to postpone or cancel dental visits, waiting for a decrease in the number of the contagions. Moreover, the risk of canceling or postponing the appointment at the dentist was 1.59 times greater in those who claimed to be strongly influenced by SARS-CoV-2. Fear of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), new cases decrease and the not urgent nature of dental visits influenced more than the lowered income household on upcoming or resuming dental appointments. In the next months, despite the forecasted economic crisis caused by coronavirus pandemic, fear and anxiety generated by the spread of the virus will impact more than the lowered familiar income with regards to access to dental care.
Information on COVID-19 and Psychological Distress in a Sample of Non-Health Workers during the Pandemic Period
Authors: Ruiz-Frutos Carlos , Ortega-Moreno Mónica , Dias Adriano , Bernardes João Marcos , García-Iglesias Juan Jesús , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: September 2020

Methods by which the population should be informed when going through a pandemic such as COVID-19 have been questioned because of its influence on the adoption of preventive measures and its effects on mental health. Non-health workers are at risk of psychological distress from exposure to contaminated people or materials or by having to stay at home and adapt their activity to telework. The objective of the study is to analyze information the public receives about COVID-19 and its influence on their level of distress. For this, 1089 questionnaires from non-health workers were collected online between 26 March and 26 April 2020 in Spain, and analysed and distributed by snowball effect. 492 participants carried out essential activities away from home, and 597 did so from home. They were surveyed about information received about COVID-19 regarding its source, time, assessment, or the beliefs expressed in it. Mental health was also measured with Goldberg’s General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). The classification and regression tree (CART) method was used to design a binary tree with sample cases. It has been found that the time spent learning about COVID-19 and the level of knowledge about symptoms, pathways, prevention, treatment, or prognosis are associated with the level of distress, where 25% of participants were found to have spent more than 3 h daily on this activity. Social media and television are the most widely used sources, but they are considered to be of lower quality and usefulness than official sources. There is greater confidence in healthcare professionals than in the health system, and the main concern of those working away from home is spreading the virus to family members. It has been concluded that there is a need to enhance quality and truthful information on the Internet for non-health workers due to its accessibility, which should be constantly updated, a fact which international and national public bodies, research centers, and journal publishers have begun to understand during the current pandemic. Such quality information is needed to combat distress.
Locust Bacterial Symbionts: An Update
Authors: Lavy Omer , Gophna Uri , Gefen Eran , Ayali Amir
Published: September 2020

As one of the world’s most infamous agricultural pests, locusts have been subjected to many in-depth studies. Their ability at one end of their behavioral spectrum to live as solitary individuals under specific conditions, and at the other end of the spectrum to form swarms of biblical scale, has placed them at the focus of vast research efforts. One important aspect of locust ecology is that of their interactions with the bacteria that reside in and on them. Although this aspect of locust ecology has been little studied relative to the mainstream locust research, these bacteria have been shown both to affect locust immunity and to participate in maintaining swarm integrity through the secretion of attractant volatiles. The interaction between locusts and their bacteria seems, however, to be bi-directional, with the bacteria themselves, as recently shown, being influenced by their host’s swarming tendencies. This seems to be a consequence of the bacterial composition in the locust’s gut, reproductive organs, and integument undergoing change with the change in their host’s behavior. In this review we describe the current state of knowledge of the locust–bacteria interactions (data exists mainly for the desert and the migratory locusts), as well as highlighting some newly-gained understanding; and offer perspectives for future research.
Heat Diffusion in High-Cp Nb3Sn Composite Superconducting Wires
Authors: Barzi Emanuela , Berritta Fabrizio , Turrioni Daniele , Zlobin Alexander V.
Published: September 2020

A major focus of Nb3Sn accelerator magnets is on significantly reducing or eliminating their training. Demonstration of an approach to increase the Cp of Nb3Sn magnets using new materials and technologies is very important both for particle accelerators and light sources. It would improve thermal stability and lead to much shorter magnet training, with substantial savings in machines’ commissioning costs. Both Hypertech and Bruker-OST have attempted to introduce high-Cp elements in their wire design. This paper includes a description of these advanced wires, the finite element model of their heat diffusion properties as compared with the standard wires, and whenever available, a comparison between the minimum quench energy (MQE) calculated by the model and actual MQE measurements on wires.
The Role of Thermal Water in Chronic Skin Diseases Management: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Cacciapuoti Sara , Luciano Maria , Megna Matteo , Annunziata Maria , Napolitano Maddalena , Patruno Cataldo , Scala Emanuele , Colicchio Roberta , Pagliuca Chiara , Salvatore Paola , Fabbrocini Gabriella
Published: September 2020

The benefits of thermal water in different diseases have been known since ancient times. Over the past decades, a re-assessment of the use of mineral water for the treatment of several pathologic conditions has taken place around the world. Today, water therapy is being practiced in many countries that have a variety of mineral springs considerably different in their hydrogeologic origin, temperature, and chemical composition. Thermal water and balneotherapy offer several advantages: this approach needs no chemicals or potentially harmful drugs; there are almost no side effects during and after treatment, and there is a low risk to the patient’s general health and well-being. However, it is difficult to evaluate the efficacy of this therapeutic approach in clinical practice due to the complexity of molecular mechanisms underlying its efficacy. Here we review the current knowledge of the chemical, immunological, and microbiological basis for therapeutic effects of thermal water with a specific focus on chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We also describe recent evidence of the major dermatologic diseases that are frequently treated by balneotherapy with a remarkable rate of success. Moreover, we discuss the potential role of balneotherapy either alone or as a complement to conventional medical treatments.
Quantitative Analysis of Somatostatin and Dopamine Receptors Gene Expression Levels in Non-functioning Pituitary Tumors and Association with Clinical and Molecular Aggressiveness Features
Authors: Flores-Martinez Álvaro , Venegas-Moreno Eva , Dios Elena , Remón-Ruiz Pablo , Gros-Herguido Noelia , Vázquez-Borrego M. Carmen , Madrazo-Atutxa Ainara , Japón Miguel A. , Kaen Ariel , Cárdenas-Valdepeñas Eugenio , Roldán Florinda , Castaño Justo P. , Luque Raúl M. , Cano David A. , Soto-Moreno Alfonso
Published: September 2020

The primary treatment for non-functioning pituitary tumors (NFPTs) is surgery, but it is often unsuccessful. Previous studies have reported that NFPTs express receptors for somatostatin (SST1-5) and dopamine (DRDs) providing a rationale for the use of dopamine agonists and somatostatin analogues. Here, we systematically assessed SST1-5 and DRDs expression by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) in a large group of patients with NFPTs (n = 113) and analyzed their potential association with clinical and molecular aggressiveness features. SST1-5 expression was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry. SST3 was the predominant SST subtype detected, followed by SST2, SST5, and SST1. DRD2 was the dominant DRD subtype, followed by DRD4, DRD5, and DRD1. A substantial proportion of NFPTs displayed marked expression of SST2 and SST5. No major association between SSTs and DRDs expression and clinical and molecular aggressiveness features was observed in NFPTs.
Contributions of Major Cell Populations to Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Witas Richard , Gupta Shivai , Nguyen Cuong Q.
Published: September 2020

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a female dominated autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration into salivary and lacrimal glands and subsequent exocrine glandular dysfunction. SS also may exhibit a broad array of extraglandular manifestations including an elevated incidence of non-Hodgkin’s B cell lymphoma. The etiology of SS remains poorly understood, yet progress has been made in identifying progressive stages of disease using preclinical mouse models. The roles played by immune cell subtypes within these stages of disease are becoming increasingly well understood, though significant gaps in knowledge still remain. There is evidence for distinct involvement from both innate and adaptive immune cells, where cells of the innate immune system establish a proinflammatory environment characterized by a type I interferon (IFN) signature that facilitates propagation of the disease by further activating T and B cell subsets to generate autoantibodies and participate in glandular destruction. This review will discuss the evidence for participation in disease pathogenesis by various classes of immune cells and glandular epithelial cells based upon data from both preclinical mouse models and human patients. Further examination of the contributions of glandular and immune cell subtypes to SS will be necessary to identify additional therapeutic targets that may lead to better management of the disease.
Prevalence of Ocular Demodicosis and Ocular Surface Conditions in Patients Selected for Cataract Surgery
Authors: Nowomiejska Katarzyna , Lukasik Piotr , Brzozowska Agnieszka , Toro Mario Damiano , Sedzikowska Aleksandra , Bartosik Katarzyna , Rejdak Robert
Published: September 2020

The aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence of ocular demodicosis and ocular surface conditions in patients selected for cataract surgery. Eyelashes from 73 patients selected for cataract surgery were evaluated at ×40 and ×100 magnification using light microscopy. The anterior segment was assessed with the slit lamp. Additionally, Schirmer I and break up time (BUT) tests were carried out before surgery and 1 and 3 months postoperatively. A specially designed questionnaire containing e.g., information about chronic skin and eye diseases, previous ophthalmic surgeries, and patient’s hygiene habits was used to assess the demographic variables. A majority of patients were at the age of 70–79 years, and there were more females (83%) in the study group. Demodex folliculorum was found in 48% of the patients. There was a correlation between the number of parasites and the presence of blepharitis, discharge at eyelid margins, and conjunctival hyperemia. Schirmer I and BUT test results were lower in patients with Demodex infestation before and after cataract surgery. The higher number of mites was correlated with lower Schirmer I test results postoperatively. The presence of Demodex mites influences the conjunctiva and lid margins leading to inflammation. The higher number of Demodex mites disturbs the tear film over time after cataract surgery.
Rituximab in the Treatment of Interstitial Lung Disease Associated with Autoimmune Diseases: Experience from a Single Referral Center and Literature Review
Authors: Atienza-Mateo Belén , Remuzgo-Martínez Sara , Prieto-Peña Diana , Mora Cuesta Víctor Manuel , Iturbe-Fernández David , Llorca Javier , Sánchez-Bilbao Lara , Corrales Alfonso , Blanco Rodríguez Gerardo , Gómez-Román José Javier , Cifrián José Manuel , González-Gay Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2020

In the present study, we aimed to report our experience with rituximab (RTX) in the treatment of patients with ILD associated with AD (AD-ILD) at a single center. For this purpose, clinical characteristics, radiological findings, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) of RTX-treated AD-ILD-patients seen from May 2016 until March 2020 at a referral center for individuals with ILD were retrospectively reviewed. Additionally, an updated literature review was conducted. A total of 26 patients (mean age 58.3 ± 11.1 years at ILD diagnosis) was included. The most common ADs related to ILD were systemic sclerosis, idiopathic inflammatory myositis (including anti-synthetase syndrome) and rheumatoid arthritis. Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (n = 12) and usual interstitial pneumonia (n = 11) were the predominant radiological patterns. The sustained improvement in PFTs was observed from the start of RTX, with a statistically significant increase in DLCO from basal to one year after RTX (mean + 4.2%, p = 0.024). Overall, there were no differences when comparing PFT outcome according to the radiological pattern or the specific type of AD. In conclusion, RTX constitutes a good therapeutic option to preserve lung function in patients with AD-ILD, regardless of the radiological pattern or the underlying AD.
Intraocular Lens Power, Myopia, and the Risk of Nd:YAG Capsulotomy after 15,375 Cataract Surgeries
Authors: Lindholm Juha-Matti , Laine Ilkka , Tuuminen Raimo
Published: September 2020

The present study estimated the 5-year cumulative probability of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy according to the diopter power of implanted hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs). Data were retrospectively collected of 15,375 eyes having cataract surgery and in-the-bag implantation of hydrophobic acrylic monofocal IOLs at the Ophthalmology Unit of Kymenlaakso Central Hospital, Kotka, Finland between the years 2007 and 2016. The cumulative probability of Nd:YAG capsulotomy was calculated by Kaplan–Meier estimates, and potential risk factors were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. The 5-year cumulative probability of Nd:YAG capsulotomy after cataract surgery was 27.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 22.9–32.6%) for low-diopter (5–16.5 D) IOLs, 14.6% (13.8–15.5%) for mid-diopter (17–24.5 D) IOLs, and 13.6% (11.7–15.6%) for high-diopter (25–30 D) IOLs. A multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that low-diopter IOLs (HR 1.76; 95% CI 1.38–2.25; p < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of Nd:YAG capsulotomy compared to mid-diopter IOLs over the follow-up period after accounting for other predictors. Real-world evidence shows that low-diopter IOLs are associated with significantly higher risk of Nd:YAG capsulotomy within five years following implantation. Estimation should help in evaluating the risks of cataract surgery in myopic eyes.
Comorbid Conditions in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Potential Therapeutic Targets for Unmet Needs
Authors: Matsunaga Kazuto , Harada Misa , Suizu Junki , Oishi Keiji , Asami-Noyama Maki , Hirano Tsunahiko
Published: September 2020

The management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has improved significantly due to advances in therapeutic agents, but it has also become apparent that there are issues that remain difficult to solve with the current treatment algorithm. COPD patients face a number of unmet needs concerning symptoms, exacerbations, and physical inactivity. There are various risk factors and triggers for these unmet needs, which can be roughly divided into two categories. One is the usual clinical characteristics for COPD patients, and the other is specific clinical characteristics in patients with comorbid conditions, such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, and bronchiectasis. These comorbidities, which are also associated with the diversity of COPD, can cause unmet needs resistance to usual care. However, treatable conditions that are not recognized as therapeutic targets may be latent in patients with COPD. We again realized that treatable traits should be assessed and treated as early as possible. In this article, we categorize potential therapeutic targets from the viewpoint of pulmonary and systemic comorbid conditions, and address recent data concerning the pathophysiological link with COPD and the impact of intervention on comorbid conditions in order to obtain evidence that could enable us to provide personalized COPD management.
8p11.23 Amplification in Breast Cancer: Molecular Characteristics, Prognosis and Targeted Therapy
Authors: Voutsadakis Ioannis A.
Published: September 2020

Background: Amplification of the locus 8p11.23 has been observed in cancer and genes of this locus, including ZNF703 (Zinc finger protein 703), NSD3 (Nuclear receptor binding SET domain protein 3) and FGFR1 (Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1), have been put forward as dominant oncogenes conferring pathophysiologic benefit in cancers with amplifications. However, there is no consensus on the importance of each of them or any other genes of the amplicon or even a consensus on which genes are part of the amplicon. Methods: Publicly available data were used to characterize the locus amplified at 8p11.23 and derive information on each of the genes and roles as oncogenes. The frequency of the amplifications in the locus was examined in the cBioportal platform, and expression levels of the amplicon genes in amplified cases were derived from genomic studies reported in the platform. Examination of the influence of mRNA expressions of each gene of the locus for Recurrence-free survival in breast cancer was performed using K-M plotter. Results: The 8p11.23 amplicon is present in higher frequency in squamous cell lung carcinomas, breast cancers and bladder carcinomas and is only rarely observed in other cancers. The most frequently amplified genes within the amplicon vary between different types of cancers. In breast cancer, amplified cases are most commonly of the luminal B type. Amplified genes are not always over-expressed and there is a low correlation of amplification with over-expression in amplicon genes with variation between genes. The presence of the amplicon does not influence the aneuploidy score or the tumor mutation burden of breast cancers. Regarding prognosis, the two genes of the amplicon whose mRNA hyper-expression portends adverse relapse-free survival in breast cancer are EIF4EBP1 (Eukaryotic transcription initiation factor 4E binding protein 1) and LSM1 (LSM1 homolog, mRNA degradation associated). Conclusion: Besides the previously proposed genes to play a role as dominant oncogenes in the 8p11.23 cancer amplified locus, other genes may also be important in breast cancer based on the high correlation of their amplification and mRNA expression and adverse prognosis conferred by over-expression, consistent with an oncogenic role.
An Investigation of Microstructural Evolution, Tensile Properties and Work-Hardening Behavior of Nanosized TiB2/Al-Cu-Mn Composites
Authors: Xia Cun Juan , Wang Lei , Zhang Qing , Zhu Hao Fei , Liu Jun , Zhang Feng Guo , Chen Zhe , Wang Hao Wei
Published: September 2020

The microstructure evolution, tensile properties and work-hardening behavior of AA2219 alloy reinforced by in situ nanosized TiB2 particles were studied in this paper. The observation indicated an impeded recrystallization of the matrix alloy by nanosized TiB2 particles, and the hybrids of nanosized TiB2 particles and Al2Cu phases located at the grain boundary hindered the grain growth. Meanwhile, a large amount fiber textures of <111>//RD (Rolling direction), <110>//RD, <100>//RD <111>//ND (Normal direction), <110>//ND and <100>//ND were detected in nanosized TiB2/AA2219 composite. Tensile test results exhibited a combination of good strength and ductility of the present composite whose yield strength and tensile strength were 11.4% and 5.8% higher than those of the alloy, while its fracture strain increased slightly. Meanwhile, the correlation between this modified microstructure of nanosized TiB2 particles and comprehensive mechanical properties was established. This study provides a new insight into the fabrication and strengthening behaviors of Al matrix composites reinforced by in situ nanoparticles.
Separation of Volatile Fatty Acids from Model Anaerobic Effluents Using Various Membrane Technologies
Authors: Bóna Áron , Bakonyi Péter , Galambos Ildikó , Bélafi-Bakó Katalin , Nemestóthy Nándor
Published: September 2020

Effluents of anaerobic processes still contain valuable components, among which volatile fatty acids (VFAs) can be regarded and should be recovered and/or used further in applications such as microbial electrochemical technology to generate energy/energy carriers. To accomplish the separation of VFAs from waste liquors, various membrane-based solutions applying different transport mechanisms and traits are available, including pressure-driven nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) which are capable to clarify, fractionate and concentrate salts and organics. Besides, emerging techniques using a membrane such as forward osmosis (FO) and supported liquid membrane (SILM) technology can be taken into consideration for VFA separation. In this work, we evaluate these four various downstream methods (NF, RO, FO and SILM) to determine the best one, comparatively, for enriching VFAs from pH-varied model solutions composed of acetic, butyric and propionic acids in different concentrations. The assessment of the separation experiments was supported by statistical examination to draw more solid conclusions. Accordingly, it turned out that all methods can separate VFAs from the model solution. The highest average retention was achieved by RO (84% at the applied transmembrane pressure of 6 bar), while NF provided the highest permeance (6.5 L/m2hbar) and a high selectivity between different VFAs.
Coulsonite FeV2O4—A Rare Vanadium Spinel Group Mineral in Metamorphosed Massive Sulfide Ores of the Kola Region, Russia
Authors: Kompanchenko Alena A.
Published: September 2020

This work presents new data on a rare vanadium spinel group mineral, i.e., coulsonite FeV2O4 established in massive sulfide ores of the Bragino occurrence in the Kola region, Russia. Coulsonite in massive sulfide ores of the Bragino occurrence is one of the most common vanadium minerals. Three varieties of coulsonite were established based on its chemical composition, some physical properties, and mineral association: coulsonite-I, coulsonite-II, and coulsonite-III. Coulsonite-I forms octahedral crystal clusters of up to 500 µm, and has a uniformly high content of Cr2O3 (20–30 wt.%), ZnO (up to 4.5 wt.%), and MnO (2.8 wt.%), high microhardness (743 kg/mm2) and coefficient of reflection. Coulsonite-II was found in relics of quartz–albite veins in association with other vanadium minerals. Its features are a thin tabular shape and enrichment in TiO2 of up to 18 wt.%. Coulsonite-III is the most common variety in massive sulfide ores of the Bragino occurrence. Coulsonite-III forms octahedral crystals of up to 150 µm, crystal clusters, and intergrowths with V-bearing ilmenite, W-V-bearing rutile, Sc-V-bearing senaite, etc. Chemical composition of coulsonite-III is characterized by wide variation of the major compounds—Fe, V, Cr. In some crystals of coulsonite-III, relics of chromite are observed. The microhardness of coulsonite-III is 577 kg/mm2, the reflection coefficient changes in relation to iron, vanadium, and chromium content.
The Efficacy of Cholesterol-Based Carriers in Drug Delivery
Authors: Ruwizhi Ngonidzashe , Aderibigbe Blessing Atim
Published: September 2020

Several researchers have reported the use of cholesterol-based carriers in drug delivery. The presence of cholesterol in cell membranes and its wide distribution in the body has led to it being used in preparing carriers for the delivery of a variety of therapeutic agents such as anticancer, antimalarials and antivirals. These cholesterol-based carriers were designed as micelles, nanoparticles, copolymers, liposomes, etc. and their routes of administration include oral, intravenous and transdermal. The biocompatibility, good bioavailability and biological activity of cholesterol-based carriers make them potent prodrugs. Several in vitro and in vivo studies revealed cholesterol-based carriers potentials in delivering bioactive agents. In this manuscript, a critical review of the efficacy of cholesterol-based carriers is reported.
Cyanobacterial Polyhydroxyalkanoates: A Sustainable Alternative in Circular Economy
Authors: Gomes Gradíssimo Diana , Pereira Xavier Luciana , Valadares Santos Agenor
Published: September 2020

Conventional petrochemical plastics have become a serious environmental problem. Its unbridled use, especially in non-durable goods, has generated an accumulation of waste that is difficult to measure, threatening aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The replacement of these plastics with cleaner alternatives, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), can only be achieved by cost reductions in the production of microbial bioplastics, in order to compete with the very low costs of fossil fuel plastics. The biggest costs are carbon sources and nutrients, which can be appeased with the use of photosynthetic organisms, such as cyanobacteria, that have a minimum requirement for nutrients, and also using agro-industrial waste, such as the livestock industry, which in turn benefits from the by-products of PHA biotechnological production, for example pigments and nutrients. Circular economy can help solve the current problems in the search for a sustainable production of bioplastic: reducing production costs, reusing waste, mitigating CO2, promoting bioremediation and making better use of cyanobacteria metabolites in different industries.
A Bottom-Up Synthesis Approach to Silver Nanoparticles Induces Anti-Proliferative and Apoptotic Activities Against MCF-7, MCF-7/TAMR-1 and MCF-10A Human Breast Cell Lines
Authors: Zulkifli Nurul Izzati , Muhamad Musthahimah , Mohamad Zain Nur Nadhirah , Tan Wen-Nee , Yahaya Noorfatimah , Bustami Yazmin , Abdul Aziz Azlan , Nik Mohamed Kamal Nik Nur Syazni
Published: September 2020

A bottom-up approach for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs-GA) phytomediated by Garcinia atroviridis leaf extract is described. Under optimized conditions, the AgNPs-GA were synthesized at a concentration of 0.1 M silver salt and 10% (w/v) leaf extract, 1:4 mixing ratio of reactants, pH 3, temperature 32 °C and 72 h reaction time. The AgNPs-GA were characterized by various analytical techniques and their size was determined to be 5–30 nm. FTIR spectroscopy indicates the role of phenolic functional groups in the reduction of silver ions into AgNPs-GA and in supporting their subsequent stability. The UV-Visible spectrum showed an absorption peak at 450 nm which reflects the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of AgNPs-GA and further supports the stability of these biosynthesized nanoparticles. SEM, TEM and XRD diffractogram analyses indicate that AgNPs-GA were spherical and face-centered-cubic in shape. This study also describes the efficacy of biosynthesized AgNPs-GA as anti-proliferative agent against human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MCF-7/TAMR-1. Our findings indicate that AgNPs-GA possess significant anti-proliferative effects against both the MCF-7 and MCF-7/TAMR-1 cell lines, with inhibitory concentration at 50% (IC50 values) of 2.0 and 34.0 µg/mL, respectively, after 72 h of treatment. An induction of apoptosis was evidenced by flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide staining. Therefore, AgNPs-GA exhibited its anti-proliferative activity via apoptosis on MCF-7 and MCF-7/TAMR-1 breast cancer cells in vitro. Taken together, the leaf extract from Garcinia atroviridis was found to be highly capable of producing AgNPs-GA with favourable physicochemical and biological properties.
N-Benzyl Residues as the P1′ Substituents in Phosphorus-Containing Extended Transition State Analog Inhibitors of Metalloaminopeptidases
Authors: Janiszewska Kamila , Talma Michał , Oszywa Bartosz , Pawełczak Małgorzata , Kafarski Paweł , Mucha Artur
Published: September 2020

Peptidyl enzyme inhibitors containing an internal aminomethylphosphinic bond system (P(O)(OH)-CH2-NH) can be termed extended transition state analogs by similarity to the corresponding phosphonamidates (P(O)(OH)-NH). Phosphonamidate pseudopeptides are broadly recognized as competitive mechanism-based inhibitors of metalloenzymes, mainly hydrolases. Their practical use is, however, limited by hydrolytic instability, which is particularly restricting for dipeptide analogs. Extension of phosphonamidates by addition of the methylene group produces a P-C-N system fully resistant in water conditions. In the current work, we present a versatile synthetic approach to such modified dipeptides, based on the three-component phospha-Mannich condensation of phosphinic acids, formaldehyde, and N-benzylglycines. The last-mentioned component allowed for simple and versatile introduction of functionalized P1′ residues located on the tertiary amino group. The products demonstrated moderate inhibitory activity towards porcine and plant metalloaminopeptidases, while selected derivatives appeared very potent with human alanyl aminopeptidase (Ki = 102 nM for 6a). Analysis of ligand-protein complexes obtained by molecular modelling revealed canonical modes of interactions for mono-metallic alanyl aminopeptidases, and distorted modes for di-metallic leucine aminopeptidases (with C-terminal carboxylate, not phosphinate, involved in metal coordination). In general, the method can be dedicated to examine P1′-S1′ complementarity in searching for non-evident structures of specific residues as the key fragments of perspective ligands.
Urinary Resveratrol Metabolites Output: Differential Associations with Cardiometabolic Markers and Liver Enzymes in House-Dwelling Subjects Featuring Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Bullón-Vela Vanessa , Abete Itziar , Zulet Maria Angeles , Xu Yifan , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Sayón-Orea Carmen , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Toledo Estefanía , Sánchez Vicente Martín , Estruch Ramon , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa María , Almanza-Aguilera Enrique , Fitó Montserrat , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Díaz-López Andrés , Tinahones Francisco J. , Tur Josep A. , Romaguera Dora , Konieczna Jadwiga , Pintó Xavier , Daimiel Lidia , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana , Alfredo Martínez José
Published: September 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) components are strongly associated with increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development. Several studies have supported that resveratrol is associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on health status. The main objective of this study was to assess the putative associations between some urinary resveratrol phase II metabolites, cardiometabolic, and liver markers in individuals diagnosed with MetS. In this cross-sectional study, 266 participants from PREDIMED Plus study (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea) were divided into tertiles of total urinary resveratrol phase II metabolites (sum of five resveratrol conjugation metabolites). Urinary resveratrol metabolites were analyzed by ultra- performance liquid chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-q-Q MS), followed by micro-solid phase extraction (µ-SPE) method. Liver function markers were assessed using serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Moreover, lipid profile was measured by triglycerides, very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c), and total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein ratio (total cholesterol/HDL). Linear regression adjusted models showed that participants with higher total urine resveratrol concentrations exhibited improved lipid and liver markers compared to the lowest tertile. For lipid determinations: log triglycerides (βT3= −0.15, 95% CI; −0.28, −0.02, p-trend = 0.030), VLDL-c, (βT3= −4.21, 95% CI; −7.97, −0.46, p-trend = 0.039), total cholesterol/HDL ratio Moreover, (βT3= −0.35, 95% CI; −0.66, −0.03, p-trend = 0.241). For liver enzymes: log AST (βT3= −0.12, 95% CI; −0.22, −0.02, p-trend = 0.011, and log GGT (βT3= −0.24, 95% CI; −0.42, −0.06, p-trend = 0.002). However, there is no difference found on glucose variables between groups. To investigate the risk of elevated serum liver markers, flexible regression models indicated that total urine resveratrol metabolites were associated with a lower risk of higher ALT (169.2 to 1314.3 nmol/g creatinine), AST (599.9 to 893.8 nmol/g creatinine), and GGT levels (169.2 to 893.8 nmol/g creatinine). These results suggested that higher urinary concentrations of some resveratrol metabolites might be associated with better lipid profile and hepatic serum enzymes. Moreover, urinary resveratrol excreted showed a reduced odds ratio for higher liver enzymes, which are linked to NAFLD.
Novel Bis-Ammonium Salts of Pyridoxine: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Shtyrlin Nikita V. , Pugachev Mikhail V. , Sapozhnikov Sergey V. , Garipov Marsel R. , Vafina Rusalia M. , Grishaev Denis Y. , Pavelyev Roman S. , Kazakova Renata R. , Agafonova Mariya N. , Iksanova Alfiya G. , Lisovskaya Svetlana A. , Zeldi Marina I. , Krylova Elena S. , Nikitina Elena V. , Sabirova Alina E. , Kayumov Airat R. , Shtyrlin Yurii G.
Published: September 2020

A series of 108 novel quaternary bis-ammonium pyridoxine derivatives carrying various substituents at the quaternary nitrogen’s and acetal carbon was synthesized. Thirteen compounds exhibited antibacterial and antifungal activity (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 0.25–16 µg/mL) comparable or superior than miramistin, benzalkonium chloride, and chlorhexidine. A strong correlation between the lipophilicity and antibacterial activity was found. The most active compounds had logP values in the range of 1–3, while compounds with logP > 6 and logP < 0 were almost inactive. All active compounds demonstrated cytotoxicity comparable with miramistin and chlorhexidine on HEK-293 cells and were three-fold less toxic when compared to benzalkonium chloride. The antibacterial activity of leading compound 5c12 on biofilm-embedded Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa was comparable or even higher than that of the benzalkonium chloride. In vivo 5c12 was considerably less toxic (LD50 1705 mg/kg) than benzalkonium chloride, miramistine, and chlorhexidine at oral administration on CD-1 mice. An aqueous solution of 5c12 (0.2%) was shown to be comparable to reference drugs efficiency on the rat’s skin model. The molecular target of 5c12 seems to be a cellular membrane as other quaternary ammonium salts. The obtained results make the described quaternary bis-ammonium pyridoxine derivatives promising and lead molecules in the development of the new antiseptics with a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity.
The Lipidome Fingerprint of Longevity
Authors: Jové Mariona , Mota-Martorell Natàlia , Pradas Irene , Galo-Licona José Daniel , Martín-Gari Meritxell , Obis Èlia , Sol Joaquim , Pamplona Reinald
Published: September 2020

Lipids were determinants in the appearance and evolution of life. Recent studies disclose the existence of a link between lipids and animal longevity. Findings from both comparative studies and genetics and nutritional interventions in invertebrates, vertebrates, and exceptionally long-lived animal species—humans included—demonstrate that both the cell membrane fatty acid profile and lipidome are a species-specific optimized evolutionary adaptation and traits associated with longevity. All these emerging observations point to lipids as a key target to study the molecular mechanisms underlying differences in longevity and suggest the existence of a lipidome profile of long life.
Structure and Performance of Benzoxazine Composites for Space Radiation Shielding
Authors: Winroth Scott , Scott Chris , Ishida Hatsuo
Published: September 2020

Innovative multifunctional materials that combine structural functionality with other spacecraft subsystem functions have been identified as a key enabling technology for future deep space missions. In this work, we report the structure and performance of multifunctional polymer matrix composites developed for aerospace applications that require both structural functionality and space radiation shielding. Composites comprised of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber reinforcement and a hydrogen-rich polybenzoxazine matrix are prepared using a low-pressure vacuum bagging process. The polybenzoxazine matrix is derived from a novel benzoxazine resin that possesses a unique combination of attributes: high hydrogen concentration for shielding against galactic cosmic rays (GCR), low polymerization temperature to prevent damage to UHMWPE fibers during composite fabrication, long shelf-life, and low viscosity to improve flow during molding. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is used to study rheological and thermomechanical properties. Composite mechanical properties, obtained using several standardized tests, are reported. Improvement in composite stiffness, through the addition of carbon fiber skin layers, is investigated. Radiation shielding performance is evaluated using computer-based simulations. The composites demonstrate clear advantages over benchmark materials in terms of combined structural and radiation shielding performance.
Development of an Optimized MALDI-TOF-MS Method for High-Throughput Identification of High-Molecular-Weight Glutenin Subunits in Wheat
Authors: Jang You-Ran , Cho Kyoungwon , Kim Se Won , Altenbach Susan B. , Lim Sun-Hyung , Sim Jae-Ryeong , Lee Jong-Yeol
Published: September 2020

Because high-molecular-weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GS) are important contributors to wheat end-use quality, there is a need for high-throughput identification of HMW-GS in wheat genetic resources and breeding lines. We developed an optimized method using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) to distinguish individual HMW-GS by considering the effects of the alkylating reagent in protein extraction, solvent components, dissolving volume, and matrix II components. Using the optimized method, 18 of 22 HMW-GS were successfully identified in standard wheat cultivars by differences in molecular weights or by their associations with other tightly linked subunits. Interestingly, 1Bx7 subunits were divided into 1Bx7 group 1 and 1Bx7 group 2 proteins with molecular weights of about 82,400 and 83,000 Da, respectively. Cultivars containing the 1Bx7 group 2 proteins were distinguished from those containing 1Bx7OE using well-known DNA markers. HMW-GS 1Ax2* and 1Bx6 and 1By8 and 1By8*, which are difficult to distinguish due to very similar molecular weights, were easily identified using RP-HPLC. To validate the method, HMW-GS from 38 Korean wheat varieties previously evaluated by SDS-PAGE combined with RP-HPLC were analyzed by MALDI-TOF-MS. The optimized MALDI-TOF-MS method will be a rapid, high-throughput tool for selecting lines containing desirable HMW-GS for breeding efforts.
Volatile Profile Characterization of Croatian Commercial Sparkling Wines
Authors: Jagatić Korenika Ana-Marija , Preiner Darko , Tomaz Ivana , Jeromel Ana
Published: September 2020

Commercial sparkling wine production represents a relatively low but important part of the Croatian wine production, especially in the Zagreb county. This study presents the results of volatile aroma compounds profile and organic acid composition of commercial sparkling wine samples from three vine-growing regions in Zagreb county. In total, 174 volatile aroma compounds were identified, separated between their chemical classes (aldehydes, higher alcohols, volatile phenols, terpenes, C13-norisoprenoids, lactones, esters, fatty acids, sulfur compounds, other compounds, other alcohols). Higher alcohols such as phenylethyl and isoamyl alcohol as well as 2-methyl-1-butanol, and esters such as diethyl succinate, ethyl hydrogensuccinate, and ethyl lactate had the strongest impact on the volatile compounds profile of Zagreb county sparkling wine. The presence of diethyl glutarate and diethyl malonate, compounds whose concentrations are influenced by yeast autolysis or caused by chemical esterification during the ageing process, was also noted. The influence of every single volatile aroma compound was evaluated by discriminant analysis using forward stepwise model. The volatile profiles of traditional sparkling wines from Croatia were presented for the first time. It is hoped the results will contribute to better understanding the quality potential and to evaluate possible differences on the bases of detected aroma concentrations and multivariate analysis.
Oxazolochlorins 21. Most Efficient Access to meso-Tetraphenyl- and meso-Tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porpholactones, and Their Zinc(II) and Platinum(II) Complexes
Authors: Thuita Damaris , Damunupola Dinusha , Brückner Christian
Published: September 2020

meso-Phenyl- and meso-pentafluorophenyl-porpholactones, their metal complexes, as well as porphyrinoids directly derived from them are useful in a number of technical and biomedical applications, and more uses are expected to be discovered. About a dozen competing and complementary pathways toward their synthesis were reported. The suitability of the methods changes with the meso-aryl group and whether the free base or metal derivatives are sought. These circumstances make it hard for anyone outside of the field of synthetic porphyrin chemistry to ascertain which pathway is the best to produce which specific derivative. We report here on what we experimentally evaluated to be the most efficient pathways to generate the six key compounds from the commercially available porphyrins, meso-tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) and meso-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrin (TFPP): free base meso-tetraphenylporpholactone (TPL) and meso-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porpholactone (TFPL), and their platinum(II) and zinc(II) complexes TPLPt, TFPLPt, TPLZn, and TFPLZn, respectively. Detailed procedures are provided to make these intriguing molecules more readily available for their further study.