bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Mechanism of Inhibition of Au Nanoparticles on the Aggregation of Amyloid-β(16-22) Peptides at the Atom Level by All-Atom Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Song Menghua , Sun Yunxiang , Luo Yin , Zhu Yanyan , Liu Yongsheng , Li Huiyu
Published: June 2018

The abnormal self-assembly of the amyloid-β peptide into toxic β-rich aggregates can cause Alzheimer’s disease. Recently, it has been shown that small gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) inhibit Aβ aggregation and fibrillation by slowing down the nucleation process in experimental studies. However, the effects of AuNPs on Aβ oligomeric structures are still unclear. In this study, we investigate the conformation of Aβ(16-22) tetramers/octamers in the absence and presence of AuNPs using extensive all-atom molecular-dynamics simulations in explicit solvent. Our studies demonstrate that the addition of AuNPs into Aβ(16-22) solution prevents β-sheet formation, and the inhibition depends on the concentration of Aβ(16-22) peptides. A detailed analysis of the Aβ(16-22)/Aβ(16-22)/water/AuNPs interactions reveals that AuNPs inhibit the β-sheet formation resulting from the same physical forces: hydrophobic interactions. Overall, our computational study provides evidence that AuNPs are likely to inhibit Aβ(16-22) and full-length Aβ fibrillation. Thus, this work provides theoretical insights into the development of inorganic nanoparticles as drug candidates for treatment of AD.
Possible Molecular Targets of Novel Ruthenium Complexes in Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Jayakumar Thanasekaran , Hsu Chia-Yuan , Khamrang Themmila , Hsia Chih-Hsuan , Hsia Chih-Wei , Manubolu Manjunath , Sheu Joen-Rong
Published: June 2018

In oncotherapy, ruthenium (Ru) complexes are reflected as potential alternatives for platinum compounds and have been proved as encouraging anticancer drugs with high efficacy and low side effects. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are mutually considered as the number one killer globally, and thrombosis is liable for the majority of CVD-related deaths. Platelets, an anuclear and small circulating blood cell, play key roles in hemostasis by inhibiting unnecessary blood loss of vascular damage by making blood clot. Platelet activation also plays a role in cancer metastasis and progression. Nevertheless, abnormal activation of platelets results in thrombosis under pathological settings such as the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Thrombosis diminishes the blood supply to the heart and brain resulting in heart attacks and strokes, respectively. While currently used anti-platelet drugs such as aspirin and clopidogrel demonstrate efficacy in many patients, they exert undesirable side effects. Therefore, the development of effective therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of thrombotic diseases is a demanding priority. Recently, precious metal drugs have conquered the subject of metal-based drugs, and several investigators have motivated their attention on the synthesis of various ruthenium (Ru) complexes due to their prospective therapeutic values. Similarly, our recent studies established that novel ruthenium-based compounds suppressed platelet aggregation via inhibiting several signaling cascades. Our study also described the structure antiplatelet-activity relationship (SAR) of three newly synthesized ruthenium-based compounds. This review summarizes the antiplatelet activity of newly synthesized ruthenium-based compounds with their potential molecular mechanisms.
Effect of Surfactant Type and Sonication Energy on the Electrical Conductivity Properties of Nanocellulose-CNT Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Siljander Sanna , Keinänen Pasi , Räty Anna , Ramakrishnan Karthik Ram , Tuukkanen Sampo , Kunnari Vesa , Harlin Ali , Vuorinen Jyrki , Kanerva Mikko
Published: June 2018

We present a detailed study on the influence of sonication energy and surfactant type on the electrical conductivity of nanocellulose-carbon nanotube (NFC-CNT) nanocomposite films. The study was made using a minimum amount of processing steps, chemicals and materials, to optimize the conductivity properties of free-standing flexible nanocomposite films. In general, the NFC-CNT film preparation process is sensitive concerning the dispersing phase of CNTs into a solution with NFC. In our study, we used sonication to carry out the dispersing phase of processing in the presence of surfactant. In the final phase, the films were prepared from the dispersion using centrifugal cast molding. The solid films were analyzed regarding their electrical conductivity using a four-probe measuring technique. We also characterized how conductivity properties were enhanced when surfactant was removed from nanocomposite films; to our knowledge this has not been reported previously. The results of our study indicated that the optimization of the surfactant type clearly affected the formation of freestanding films. The effect of sonication energy was significant in terms of conductivity. Using a relatively low 16 wt. % concentration of multiwall carbon nanotubes we achieved the highest conductivity value of 8.4 S/cm for nanocellulose-CNT films ever published in the current literature. This was achieved by optimizing the surfactant type and sonication energy per dry mass. Additionally, to further increase the conductivity, we defined a preparation step to remove the used surfactant from the final nanocomposite structure.
Does the Automatic Measurement of Interleukin 6 Allow for Prediction of Complications during the First 48 h of Acute Pancreatitis?
Authors: Kolber Witold , Dumnicka Paulina , Maraj Małgorzata , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata , Ceranowicz Piotr , Pędziwiatr Michał , Maziarz Barbara , Mazur-Laskowska Małgorzata , Kuźniewski Marek , Sporek Mateusz , Walocha Jerzy
Published: June 2018

Acute pancreatitis (AP) in most patients takes a course of self-limiting local inflammation. However, up to 20% of patients develop severe AP (SAP), associated with systemic inflammation and/or pancreatic necrosis. Early prediction of SAP allows for the appropriate intensive treatment of severe cases, which reduces mortality. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been proposed as a biomarker to assist early diagnosis of SAP, however, most data come from studies utilizing IL-6 measurements with ELISA. Our aim was to verify the diagnostic usefulness of IL-6 for the prediction of SAP, organ failure, and need for intensive care in the course of AP using a fully automated assay. The study included 95 adult patients with AP of various severity (29 mild, 58 moderately-severe, 8 severe) admitted to a hospital within 24 h from the onset of symptoms. Serum IL-6 was measured using electochemiluminescence immunoassay in samples collected on admission and on the next day of hospital stay. On both days, patients with SAP presented the highest IL-6 levels. IL-6 correlated positively with other inflammatory markers (white blood cell and neutrophil counts, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin), the markers of renal injury (kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin), and the markers of endothelial dysfunction (angiopoietin-2, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1). IL-6 on admission significantly predicted SAP, vital organ failure, and the need for intensive care or death, with areas under the receiver operating curve between 0.75 and 0.78, not significantly different from multi-variable prognostic scores. The fully automated assay allows for fast and repeatable measurements of serum IL-6, enabling wider clinical use of this valuable biomarker.
Rho GTPases in Intellectual Disability: From Genetics to Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Zamboni Valentina , Jones Rebecca , Umbach Alessandro , Ammoni Alessandra , Passafaro Maria , Hirsch Emilio , Merlo Giorgio R.
Published: June 2018

Rho-class small GTPases are implicated in basic cellular processes at nearly all brain developmental steps, from neurogenesis and migration to axon guidance and synaptic plasticity. GTPases are key signal transducing enzymes that link extracellular cues to the neuronal responses required for the construction of neuronal networks, as well as for synaptic function and plasticity. Rho GTPases are highly regulated by a complex set of activating (GEFs) and inactivating (GAPs) partners, via protein:protein interactions (PPI). Misregulated RhoA, Rac1/Rac3 and cdc42 activity has been linked with intellectual disability (ID) and other neurodevelopmental conditions that comprise ID. All genetic evidences indicate that in these disorders the RhoA pathway is hyperactive while the Rac1 and cdc42 pathways are consistently hypoactive. Adopting cultured neurons for in vitro testing and specific animal models of ID for in vivo examination, the endophenotypes associated with these conditions are emerging and include altered neuronal networking, unbalanced excitation/inhibition and altered synaptic activity and plasticity. As we approach a clearer definition of these phenotype(s) and the role of hyper- and hypo-active GTPases in the construction of neuronal networks, there is an increasing possibility that selective inhibitors and activators might be designed via PPI, or identified by screening, that counteract the misregulation of small GTPases and result in alleviation of the cognitive condition. Here we review all knowledge in support of this possibility.
Roboethics: Fundamental Concepts and Future Prospects
Authors: Tzafestas Spyros G.
Published: June 2018

Many recent studies (e.g., IFR: International Federation of Robotics, 2016) predict that the number of robots (industrial, service/social, intelligent/autonomous) will increase enormously in the future. Robots are directly involved in human life. Industrial robots, household robots, medical robots, assistive robots, sociable/entertainment robots, and war robots all play important roles in human life and raise crucial ethical problems for our society. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the fundamental concepts of robot ethics (roboethics) and some future prospects of robots and roboethics, as an introduction to the present Special Issue of the journal Information on “Roboethics”. We start with the question of what roboethics is, as well as a discussion of the methodologies of roboethics, including a brief look at the branches and theories of ethics in general. Then, we outline the major branches of roboethics, namely: medical roboethics, assistive roboethics, sociorobot ethics, war roboethics, autonomous car ethics, and cyborg ethics. Finally, we present the prospects for the future of robotics and roboethics.
Resolving the True Ventricular Mural Architecture
Authors: Stephenson Robert S. , Agger Peter , Omann Camilla , Sanchez-Quintana Damian , Jarvis Jonathan C. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: June 2018

The precise nature of packing together of the cardiomyocytes within the ventricular walls has still to be determined. The spiraling nature of the chains of interconnected cardiomyocytes has long been recognized. As long ago as the end of the nineteenth century, Pettigrew had emphasized that the ventricular cone was not arranged on the basis of skeletal muscle. Despite this guidance, subsequent anatomists described entities such as “bulbo-spiral muscles”, with this notion of subunits culminating in the suggestion that the ventricular cone could be unwrapped so as to produce a “ventricular myocardial band”. Others, in contrast, had suggested that the ventricular walls were arranged on the basis of “sheets”, or more recently “sheetlets”, with investigators seeking to establishing the angulation of these entities using techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging. Our own investigations, in contrast, have shown that the cardiomyocytes are aggregated together within the supporting fibrous matrix so as to produce a three-dimensional myocardial mesh. In this review, we summarize the previous accounts, and provide the anatomical evidence we have thus far accumulated to support the model of the myocardial mesh. We show how these anatomic findings underscore the concept of the myocardial mesh functioning in antagonistic fashion. They lend evidence to support the notion that the ventricular myocardium works as a muscular hydrostat.
F-Convex Contraction via Admissible Mapping and Related Fixed Point Theorems with an Application
Authors: Singh Y. Mahendra , Khan Mohammad Saeed , Kang Shin Min
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we introduce F-convex contraction via admissible mapping in the sense of Wardowski [Fixed points of a new type of contractive mappings in complete metric spaces. Fixed Point Theory Appl., 94 (2012), 6 pages] which extends convex contraction mapping of type-2 of Istrǎţescu [Some fixed point theorems for convex contraction mappings and convex non-expansive mappings (I), Libertas Mathematica, 1(1981), 151–163] and establish a fixed point theorem in the setting of metric space. Our result extends and generalizes some other similar results in the literature. As an application of our main result, we establish an existence theorem for the non-linear Fredholm integral equation and give a numerical example to validate the application of our obtained result.
Dietary Supplementation with a Magnesium-Rich Marine Mineral Blend Enhances the Diversity of Gastrointestinal Microbiota
Authors: Crowley Erin K. , Long-Smith Caitriona M. , Murphy Amy , Patterson Elaine , Murphy Kiera , O’Gorman Denise M. , Stanton Catherine , Nolan Yvonne M.
Published: June 2018

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that dietary supplementation with functional food ingredients play a role in systemic and brain health as well as in healthy ageing. Conversely, deficiencies in calcium and magnesium as a result of the increasing prevalence of a high fat/high sugar “Western diet” have been associated with health problems such as obesity, inflammatory bowel diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, as well as metabolic, immune, and psychiatric disorders. It is now recognized that modulating the diversity of gut microbiota, the population of intestinal bacteria, through dietary intervention can significantly impact upon gut health as well as systemic and brain health. In the current study, we show that supplementation with a seaweed and seawater-derived functional food ingredient rich in bioactive calcium and magnesium (0.1% supplementation) as well as 70 other trace elements, significantly enhanced the gut microbial diversity in adult male rats. Given the significant impact of gut microbiota on health, these results position this marine multi-mineral blend (MMB) as a promising digestive-health promoting functional food ingredient.
Cyanobacteria as Nanogold Factories: Chemical and Anti-Myocardial Infarction Properties of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized by Lyngbya majuscula
Authors: Bakir Esam M. , Younis Nancy S. , Mohamed Maged E. , El Semary Nermin A.
Published: June 2018

To the best of our knowledge, cyanobacterial strains from the Arabian Gulf have never been investigated with respect to their potential for nanoparticle production. Lyngbya majuscula was isolated from the AlOqair area, Al-Ahsa Government, Eastern Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The cyanobacterium was initially incubated with 1500 mg/mL of HAuCl4 for two days. The blue-green strain turned purple, which indicated the intracellular formation of gold nanoparticles. Prolonged incubation for over two months triggered the extracellular production of nanogold particles. UV-visible spectroscopy measurements indicated the presence of a resonance plasmon band at ~535 nm, whereas electron microscopy scanning indicated the presence of gold nanoparticles with an average diameter of 41.7 ± 0.2 nm. The antioxidant and anti-myocardial infarction activities of the cyanobacterial extract, the gold nanoparticle solution, and a combination of both were investigated in animal models. Isoproterenol (100 mg/kg, SC (sub cutaneous)) was injected into experimental rats for three days to induce a state of myocardial infarction; then the animals were given cyanobacterial extract (200 mg/kg/day, IP (intra peritoneal)), gold nanoparticles (200 mg/kg/day, IP), ora mixture of both for 14 days. Cardiac biomarkers, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood pressure, and antioxidant enzymes were determined as indicators of myocardial infarction. The results showed that isoproterenol elevates ST and QT segments and increases heart rate and serum activities of creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatine kinase-myocardial bound (CP-MB), and cardiac troponin T (cTnT). It also reduces heart tissue content of glutathione peroxidase (GRx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and the arterial pressure indices of systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Gold nanoparticles alone or in combination with cyanobacterial extract produced an inhibitory effect on isoproterenol-induced changes in serum cardiac injury markers, ECG, arterial pressure indices, and antioxidant capabilities of the heart.
Treatment results of Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Authors: Aleknavičius Eduardas , Valuckas Konstantinas , Aleknavičienė Birutė , Norkienė Laura , Smailytė Giedrė
Published: June 2018

During last decades, there are strengthening attitudes to optimize the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma considering prognostic groups and risk factors. Based on the data of Vilnius University Clinics, a retrospective study was carried out, and treatment methods and outcomes of the patients treated during 1999– 2004 were analyzed. Medical histories of 114 patients younger than 60 years were reviewed. Median age was 28 years. In 83% of cases, classic nodular sclerotic Hodgkin’s lymphoma was diagnosed. Advanced-, intermediate-, and early-stage disease was diagnosed in 55%, 38%, and 7% of cases, respectively. The patients with early-stage disease underwent four ABVD chemotherapy courses; 88% of them underwent radiotherapy afterwards. The patients with intermediate-stage disease underwent 4–6 courses of ABVD or in minor cases (12% of patients with intermediate-stage disease) – 4 standard BEACOPP chemotherapy courses. After this treatment, 88% of patients with intermediate-stage disease underwent radiotherapy. Patients with advanced-stage disease underwent 8 escalate (44%) or standard BEACOPP (29%) chemotherapy courses. More than half of these patients (71%) underwent radiotherapy after chemotherapy. Patient follow-up median was 65 months. One hundred seven patients (94%) after primary treatment achieved complete remission, in 7 patients (6%) primary progression was observed, 12 patients (11%) relapsed, and 8 patients died. Overall survival and event-free survival in patients with early-stage disease was 100%. Overall survival in patients with early/intermediate- and advanced-stage disease was 95.1% and 84.0%, respectively. Event-free survival in patients with early/intermediate- and advanced-stage disease was 91.7% and 76.2%, respectively. In the groups of intermediate- and advanced-stage disease, the results of treatment were worse in the subgroup, which underwent extended-field radiotherapy (P<0.05). Overall survival in the group of patients with advanced-stage disease was the best who underwent ABVD scheme, but the event-free survival (70.6%) and disease-free survival (81.3%) in ABVD subgroup were worse compared to BEACOPP subgroup. According to our results, there was no statistically significant difference in survival of patients with advanced-stage disease who underwent or did not radiotherapy (P>0.05).
Application of high-performance liquid chromatography for research of salicin in bark of different varieties of Salix
Authors: Kenstavičienė Palmyra , Nenortienė Palma , Kiliuvienė Guoda , Ževžikovas Andrejus , Lukošius Audronis , Kazlauskienė Daiva
Published: June 2018

Willow (Salix L.) species are widely spread in Lithuanian natural dendroflora. Willow bark contains active substances known for anti-inflammatory properties and is known as a phytotherapeutic precursor of aspirin. Bark extracts are components of analgesic and antirheumatic preparations. Therapeutic effectiveness is associated with salicin (2-(hydroxymethyl) phenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside), which turns into salicylic acid. Increasing attention to natural preparations gives primary importance to research of plants. This study focused on 12 willow taxa and employed routine pharmacopoeia methods. High-performance liquid chromatography method was applied for the analysis of bark extractions. The investigation revealed that not all willow species accumulated a therapeutically sufficient amount of salicin. Bark samples were investigated after 1- and 2-year growth in autumn and spring. Salicin content ranged from 0.08 to 12.6%. Higher contents of active materials were determined in autumn and in 2-year-old willows. Certain willow taxa (Salix alba L., Salix mollissima L., Salix triandra L., Salix viminalis “Americana”, Salix dasyclados L.) possessed extremely low salicin amounts. In the second year, analysis covered 32 willow species. Results indicated striking differences in salicin amounts (from 0.04% in Salix viminalis “Americana” to 12.06% in Salix acutifolia). Willow species, plant age, and season should be considered when collecting medicinal plant material. The amount of salicylates in 2-year-old willow bark collected in autumn exceeded by 25% that in 1-year-old willow bark collected in spring. Bark of some analyzed willow species contained the amount of salicylates too low for using as anti-inflammatory or antipyretic remedy.
Design and Performance Test of an Ocean Turbulent Kinetic Energy Dissipation Rate Measurement Probe
Authors: Tian Bian , Li Huafeng , Yang Hua , Zhao Yulong , Chen Pei , Song Dalei
Published: June 2018

Ocean turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate is an essential parameter in marine environmental monitoring. Numerous probes have been designed to measure the turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate in the past, and most of them utilize piezoelectric ceramics as the sensing element. In this paper, an ocean turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate measurement probe utilizing a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) piezoresistor as the sensing element has been designed and tested. The triangle cantilever beam and piezoresistive sensor chip are the core components of the designed probe. The triangle cantilever beam acts as a velocity-force signal transfer element, the piezoresistive sensor chip acts as a force-electrical signal transfer element, and the piezoresistive sensor chip is bonded on the triangle cantilever beam. One end of the triangle cantilever beam is a nylon sensing head which contacts with fluid directly, and the other end of it is a printed circuit board which processes the electrical signal. A finite element method has been used to study the effect of the cantilever beam on probe performance. The Taguchi optimization methodology is applied to optimize the structure parameters of the cantilever beam. An orthogonal array, signal-to-noise ratio, and analysis of variance are studied to analyze the effect of these parameters. Through the use of the designed probe, we can acquire the fluid flow velocity, and to obtain the ocean turbulent dissipation rate, an attached signal processing system has been designed. To verify the performance of the designed probe, tests in the laboratory and in the Bohai Sea are designed and implemented. The test results show that the designed probe has a measurement range of 10−8–10−4 W/kg and a sensitivity of 3.91 × 10−4 (Vms2)/kg. The power spectrum calculated from the measured velocities shows good agreement with the Nasmyth spectrum. The comparative analysis between the designed probe in this paper and the commonly used PNS probe has also been completed. The designed probe can be a strong candidate in marine environmental monitoring.
(Bio)leaching Behavior of Chromite Tailings
Authors: Bolaños-Benítez Viviana , Van Hullebusch Eric D. , Lens Piet N.L. , Quantin Cécile , Van de Vossenberg Jack , Subramanian Sankaran , Sivry Yann
Published: June 2018

Chromite beneficiation operations in Sukinda valley (India) produce large amounts of tailings, which are stored in open air. In this study, bioleaching experiments were carried out in batch reactors with Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans or Pseudomonas putida in order to determine the potential leachability of metals contained in these tailings due to biological activity. Acidic and alkaline pH resulted from the incubation of tailings with A. thiooxidans and P. putida, respectively. Tailings were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and chemical extraction of Cr(VI) with KH2PO4 was performed. Mineralogical investigations showed that tailings are mainly composed of chromite, hematite, lizardite, chlorite, and goethite, which are all known as Cr-bearing phases. During the leaching with A. thiooxidans and P. putida, total Cr was initially extracted as Cr(VI) due to the presence of phosphates in the medium, and subsequently decreased because of Cr(VI) adsorption and reduction to Cr(III). Reduction was associated with bacterial activity, but also with the presence of ferrous iron. Despite the occurrence of siderophores in the tailings after incubation with P. putida, under acidic conditions, Fe extracted remained higher. Extracted Ni, Mn, and Al concentrations also increased over time. Given the significant amount of chromite tailings produced every year, this study shows that tailings storage and leachability represent a potential source of chromium. However, our findings suggest that the presence of bacterial communities, as well as physicochemical processes, favor Cr(VI) reduction.
Mouse β-Defensin 3, A Defensin Inhibitor of Both Its Endogenous and Exogenous Potassium Channels
Authors: Zhang Yaoyun , Zhao Yonghui , Liu Hongyue , Yu Weiwei , Yang Fan , Li Wenhua , Cao Zhijian , Wu Yingliang
Published: June 2018

The human defensins are recently discovered to inhibit potassium channels, which are classical targets of the animal toxins. Whether other vertebrate defensins are potassium channel inhibitors remains unknown. In this work, we reported that the mouse β-defensin 3 (mBD3) was a novel inhibitor of both endogenous and exogenous potassium channels. The structural analysis showed that mBD3 is the most identical to human Kv1.3 channel-sensitive human β-defensin 2 (hBD2). However, the pharmacological profiles indicated that the recombinant mBD3 (rmBD3) weakly inhibited the mouse and human Kv1.3 channels. Different from the pharmacological features of human β-defensins, mBD3 more selectively inhibited the mouse Kv1.6 and human KCNQ1/KCNE1 channels with IC50 values of 0.6 ± 0.4 μM and 1.2 ± 0.8 μM, respectively. The site directed mutagenesis experiments indicated that the extracellular pore region of mouse Kv1.6 channel was the interaction site of rmBD3. In addition, the minor effect on the channel conductance-voltage relationship curves implied that mBD3 might bind the extracellular transmembrane helices S1-S2 linker and/or S3-S4 linker of mouse Kv1.6 channel. Together, these findings not only revealed mBD3 as a novel inhibitor of both endogenous and exogenous potassium channels, but also provided a clue to investigate the role of mBD3-Kv1.6 channel interaction in the physiological and pathological field in the future.
Constituents of Essential Oil and Lipid Fraction from the Aerial Part of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. (Apiaceae) from Different Habitats
Authors: Tykheev Zhargal , Zhigzhitzhapova Svetlana , Zhang Faqi , Taraskin Vasiliy , Anenkhonov Oleg , Radnaeva Larisa , Chen Shilong
Published: June 2018

The essential oils and lipid fraction extracted from the aerial parts of Bupleurum scorzonerifolium were determined by a GC-MS method. In total, up to 67 components were identified. cis-β-Ocimene, trans-β-ocimene, limonene, α-pinene, α-copaene, β-elemene, and caryophyllene oxide were recognized as consistent components of the essential oil extracted from the aerial parts of B. scorzonerifolium, regardless of the habitat. The content of these components varied from traces to a significant amount. The volume of the lipid fraction varied from 2.73 to 9.38%. In total, 23 components were identified, including 20 fatty acids, two sterols, and one ketone. The major fatty acid components identified were 16:0, 18:2n9, and 18:1n9. The total content of these fatty acids reached up to 76.19%. The lipid fraction of the aerial parts of B. scorzonerifolium predominantly contained MUFA and PUFA, which confirmed the pharmacological value of the species. The main factors affecting the composition of essential oils and lipid fractions of B. scorzonerifolium are environmental ones that determine the moisture supply to the plants in semiarid and arid areas.
Spherical and Spindle-Like Abamectin-Loaded Nanoparticles by Flash Nanoprecipitation for Southern Root-Knot Nematode Control: Preparation and Characterization
Authors: Fu Zhinan , Chen Kai , Li Li , Zhao Fang , Wang Yan , Wang Mingwei , Shen Yue , Cui Haixin , Liu Dianhua , Guo Xuhong
Published: June 2018

Southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is a biotrophic parasite, causing enormous loss in global crop production annually. Abamectin (Abm) is a biological and high-efficiency pesticide against Meloidogyne incognita. In this study, a powerful method, flash nanoprecipitation (FNP), was adopted to successfully produce Abm-loaded nanoparticle suspensions with high drug loading capacity (>40%) and encapsulation efficiency (>95%), where amphiphilic block copolymers (BCPs) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLGA-b-PEG), poly(d,l-lactide)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLA-b-PEG), or poly(caprolactone)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PCL-b-PEG) were used as the stabilizer to prevent the nanoparticles from aggregation. The effect of the drug-to-stabilizer feed ratio on the particle stability were investigated. Moreover, the effect of the BCP composition on the morphology of Abm-loaded nanoparticles for controlling Meloidogyne incognita were discussed. Notably, spindle-like nanoparticles were obtained with PCL-b-PEG as the stabilizer and found significantly more efficient (98.4% mortality at 1 ppm particle concentration) than spherical nanoparticles using PLGA-b-PEG or PLA-b-PEG as the stabilizer. This work provides a more rapid and powerful method to prepare stable Abm-loaded nanoparticles with tunable morphologies and improved effectiveness for controlling Meloidogyne incognita.
Intake of Polydextrose Alters Hematology and the Profile of Short Chain Fatty Acids in Partially Gastrectomized Rats
Authors: Do Carmo Mariane Moreira Ramiro , Sarmento Ulana Chaves , Cavalheiro Leandro Fontoura , Fernandes Anderson , Filiú Wander Fernando de Oliveira , Gielow Karine de Cássia Freitas , Costa Deiler Sampaio , Guercio Adriana Conceiçon , Do Nascimento Valter Aragão , Ribeiro Camila Fontoura Acosta , De Castro Alinne Pereira , Carvalho Cristiano Marcelo Espinola , Novello Daiana , Santos-Junior Valfredo de Almeida , Morato Priscila Neder , Amaya-Farfan Jaime , Hiane Priscila Aiko , Dos Santos Elisvânia Freitas
Published: June 2018

Polydextrose (PDX) ingestion may increase the intestinal absorption of iron. This study evaluated the effects of 7.5% polydextrose supplementation on markers of iron uptake, transport and storage in partially gastrectomized rats. Half of a batch of 40 male Wistar rats (250 g) underwent Billroth II partial gastrectomy with anterior truncal vagotomy (GXT), while the other half underwent sham gastrectomy (SHAM). At 7 postoperative days, the animals were subdivided into four groups (n = 10): Sham Control and GXT Control (no polydextrose); Sham PDX and GXT PDX (with 7.5% PDX). The animals were euthanized after 60 day of PDX treatment. Organ weight, cecal pH, the characterization and quantification of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), hematological parameters, hepatic iron content and the expression of ferroportin (FPT) in the jejunum, cecum, colon and liver were evaluated. PDX caused changes in the cecum of the supplemented animals, where there was a decrease in pH, increase in cecal wall and marked production of SCFA, especially acetic and propionic acids (p < 0.05). Hepatic iron levels were lower in GXT animals. PDX increased hemoglobin (HGB) values by 29.2% and hematocrit (HCT) by 55.8% in the GXT PDX group compared to the GXT Control group. The GXT PDX group had lower hepatic FPT expression (p < 0.05). PDX led to increased SCFA concentration in the supplemented animals. Considering that SCFAs play a central role in the increasing nutrients uptake, this mechanism may be involved in altering the hematology profile observed in these animals but not enough to reverse iron deficiency anemia in post-gastrectomy rats.
Inulin Supplementation Does Not Reduce Plasma Trimethylamine N-Oxide Concentrations in Individuals at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Baugh Mary Elizabeth , Steele Cortney N. , Angiletta Christopher J. , Mitchell Cassie M. , Neilson Andrew P. , Davy Brenda M. , Hulver Matthew W. , Davy Kevin P.
Published: June 2018

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Prebiotic supplementation has been purported to reduce TMAO production, but whether prebiotics reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO levels is unclear. Sedentary, overweight/obese adults at risk for T2DM (n = 18) were randomized to consume a standardized diet (55% carbohydrate, 30% fat) with 10 g/day of either an inulin supplement or maltodextrin placebo for 6 weeks. Blood samples were obtained in the fasting state and hourly during a 4-h high-fat challenge meal (820 kcal; 25% carbohydrate, 63% fat; 317.4 mg choline, 62.5 mg betaine, 8.1 mg l-carnitine) before and after the diet. Plasma TMAO and trimethylamine (TMA) moieties (choline, l-carnitine, betaine, and γ-butyrobetaine) were measured using isocratic ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). There were no differences in fasting or postprandial TMAO or TMA moieties between the inulin and placebo groups at baseline (all p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in fasting or postprandial plasma TMAO or TMA moiety concentrations following inulin or placebo. These findings suggest that inulin supplementation for 6 weeks did not reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO in individuals at risk for T2DM. Future studies are needed to identify efficacious interventions that reduce plasma TMAO concentrations.
A Radio-Fluorogenic Polymer-Gel Makes Fixed Fluorescent Images of Complex Radiation Fields
Authors: Warman John M. , De Haas Matthijs P. , Luthjens Leonard H. , Denkova Antonia G. , Yao Tiantian
Published: June 2018

We review the development and application of an organic polymer-gel capable of producing fixed, three-dimensional fluorescent images of complex radiation fields. The gel consists for more than 99% of γ-ray-polymerized (~15% conversion) tertiary-butyl acrylate (TBA) containing ~100 ppm of a fluorogenic compound, e.g., maleimido-pyrene (MPy). The radio-fluorogenic effect depends on copolymerization of the MPy into growing chains of TBA on radiation-induced polymerization. This converts the maleimido residue, which quenches the pyrene fluorescence, into a succinimido moeity (SPy), which does not. The intensity of the fluorescence is proportional to the yield of free-radicals formed and hence to the local dose deposited. Because the SPy moieties are built into the polymer network, the image is fixed. The method of preparing the gel and imaging the radiation-induced fluorescence are presented and discussed. The effect is illustrated with fluorescent images of the energy deposited in the gel by beams of X-rays, electrons, and protons as well as a radioactive isotope.
Modification of PSf/SPSf Blended Porous Support for Improving the Reverse Osmosis Performance of Aromatic Polyamide Thin Film Composite Membranes
Authors: Liu Li-Fen , Gu Xing-Ling , Xie Xin , Li Rui-Han , Yu Chun-Yang , Song Xiao-Xiao , Gao Cong-Jie
Published: June 2018

In this study, modification of polysulfone (PSf)/sulfonated polysulfone (SPSf) blended porous ultrafiltration (UF) support membranes was proposed to improve the reverse osmosis (RO) performance of aromatic polyamide thin film composite (TFC) membranes. The synergistic effects of solvent, polymer concentration, and SPSf doping content in the casting solution were investigated systematically on the properties of both porous supports and RO membranes. SEM and AFM were combined to characterize the physical properties of the membranes, including surface pore natures (porosity, mean pore radius), surface morphology, and section structure. A contact angle meter was used to analyze the membrane surface hydrophilicity. Permeate experiments were carried out to evaluate the separation performances of the membranes. The results showed that the PSf/SPSf blended porous support modified with 6 wt % SPSf in the presence of DMF and 14 wt % PSf had higher porosity, bigger pore diameter, and a rougher and more hydrophilic surface, which was more beneficial for fabrication of a polyamide TFC membrane with favorable reverse osmosis performance. This modified PSf/SPSf support endowed the RO membrane with a more hydrophilic surface, higher water flux (about 1.2 times), as well as a slight increase in salt rejection than the nascent PSf support. In a word, this work provides a new facile method to improve the separation performance of polyamide TFC RO membranes via the modification of conventional PSf porous support with SPSf.
Enzymatic Degradation of Poly(butylene succinate) Copolyesters Synthesized with the Use of Candida antarctica Lipase B
Authors: Wcisłek Aleksandra , Sonseca Olalla Agueda , McClain Andrew , Piegat Agnieszka , Sobolewski Peter , Puskas Judit , El Fray Miroslawa
Published: June 2018

Biodegradable polymers are an active area of investigation, particularly ones that can be produced from sustainable, biobased monomers, such as copolymers of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS). In this study, we examine the enzymatic degradation of poly(butylene succinate-dilinoleic succinate) (PBS-DLS) copolymers obtained by “green” enzymatic synthesis using lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB). The copolymers differed in their hard to soft segments ratio, from 70:30 to 50:50 wt %. Enzymatic degradation was carried out on electrospun membranes (scaffolds) and compression-moulded films using lipase from Pseudomomas cepacia. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) was used as a reference aliphatic polyester. The degradation process was monitored gravimetrically via water uptake and mass loss. After 24 days, approx. 40% mass loss was observed for fibrous materials prepared from the PBS-DLS 70:30 copolymer, as compared to approx. 10% mass loss for PBS-DLS 50:50. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) analysis were used to examine changes in chemical structure. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning light microscopy (LSM) revealed changes in degree of crystallinity, and changes in surface morphology, consistent with a surface erosion mechanism. We conclude that the obtained copolymers are suitable for tissue engineering applications thanks to tuneable degradation and lack of acidification during breakdown.
Directional Sensitivity of a MEMS-Based Fiber-Optic Extrinsic Fabry–Perot Ultrasonic Sensor for Partial Discharge Detection
Authors: Si Wenrong , Fu Chenzhao , Li Delin , Li Haoyong , Yuan Peng , Yu Yiting
Published: June 2018

Extrinsic Fabry–Perot (FP) interferometric sensors are being intensively applied for partial discharge (PD) detection and localization. Previous research work has mainly focused on novel structures and materials to improve the sensitivity and linear response of these sensors. However, the directional response behavior of an FP ultrasonic sensor is also of particular importance in localizing the PD source, which is rarely considered. Here, the directional sensitivity of a microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based FP ultrasonic sensor with a 5-μm-thick micromechanical vibrating diaphragm is experimentally investigated. Ultrasonic signals from a discharge source with varying incident angles and linear distances are measured and analyzed. The results show that the sensor has a 5.90 dB amplitude fluctuation over a ±60° incident range and an exciting capability to detect weak PD signals from 3 m away due to its high signal–noise ratio. The findings are expected to optimize the configuration of a sensor array and accurately localize the PD source.
A New Method of High-Precision Positioning for an Indoor Pseudolite without Using the Known Point Initialization
Authors: Zhao Yinzhi , Zhang Peng , Guo Jiming , Li Xin , Wang Jinling , Yang Fei , Wang Xinzhe
Published: June 2018

Due to the great influence of multipath effect, noise, clock and error on pseudorange, the carrier phase double difference equation is widely used in high-precision indoor pseudolite positioning. The initial position is determined mostly by the known point initialization (KPI) method, and then the ambiguities can be fixed with the LAMBDA method. In this paper, a new method without using the KPI to achieve high-precision indoor pseudolite positioning is proposed. The initial coordinates can be quickly obtained to meet the accuracy requirement of the indoor LAMBDA method. The detailed processes of the method follows: Aiming at the low-cost single-frequency pseudolite system, the static differential pseudolite system (DPL) method is used to obtain the low-accuracy positioning coordinates of the rover station quickly. Then, the ambiguity function method (AFM) is used to search for the coordinates in the corresponding epoch. The real coordinates obtained by AFM can meet the initial accuracy requirement of the LAMBDA method, so that the double difference carrier phase ambiguities can be correctly fixed. Following the above steps, high-precision indoor pseudolite positioning can be realized. Several experiments, including static and dynamic tests, are conducted to verify the feasibility of the new method. According to the results of the experiments, the initial coordinates with the accuracy of decimeter level through the DPL can be obtained. For the AFM part, both a one-meter search scope and two-centimeter or four-centimeter search steps are used to ensure the precision at the centimeter level and high search efficiency. After dealing with the problem of multiple peaks caused by the ambiguity cosine function, the coordinate information of the maximum ambiguity function value (AFV) is taken as the initial value of the LAMBDA, and the ambiguities can be fixed quickly. The new method provides accuracies at the centimeter level for dynamic experiments and at the millimeter level for static ones.
Drought Assessment with the Community Land Model for 1951–2010 in East Asia
Authors: Um Myoung-Jin , Kim Mun Mo , Kim Yeonjoo , Park Daeryong
Published: June 2018

Severe droughts have occurred in East Asia; however, observational hydroclimate data that covers the entire region is lacking. The objective of this study is to investigate drought assessment in East Asia. This study estimated three drought indices by generating hydroclimate variables using the Community Land Model (CLM). The results of the CLM were verified by comparison with Climatic Research Unit (CRU) data for precipitation and air temperature and the Global Runoff Data Centre (GRDC) data for runoff. Spatial and temporal variations in three drought severity indices, including the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), the standardized runoff index (SRI), and the Standardized Soil Moisture Index (SSMI), in East Asia were estimated using the CLM output and compared with the SPEI in the CRU. This study classified drought frequency into four classes depending on the drought severity with 5-deg gapped longitude and latitude for 1951–2010 in East Asia and found that moderately dry (D2) and severely dry (D3) drought frequency classes matched well between the CLM and CRU data. The SPEI in the CLM and CRU data showed very similar frequency magnitudes and an increasing temporal trend. The SRI and SSMI frequencies for CLM also showed an increasing temporal trend compared to the SPEI frequency trend. The results of this study show that CLM outputs are reliable for drought analysis in East Asia. Furthermore, this study suggests the possibility of CLM application to other regions to generate hydroclimate data that is otherwise insufficient.
Competitive–Cooperative Strategy Based on Altruistic Behavior for Dual-Channel Supply Chains
Authors: Xu Fei , Wang Honglei
Published: June 2018

As market competition becomes increasingly fierce, it becomes more and more important for members of the supply chain to maximize market sales and improve the economic benefits of all parties through altruistic cooperation. Considering the complex relationship between online and offline retail channels, this paper proposes a competitive–cooperative strategy based on altruistic behavior for the dual-channel supply chain, by applying the theory of the co-competition game. First, we introduce the problem with respect to the relationship between online and offline retail channels, and establish the competitive–cooperative strategy model based on altruistic behavior. Then, we prove the equilibrium strategy for existence and stability of the proposed model through mathematical deduction. Next, a multi-object optimal model is excluded by applying the Pareto principle, and the NSGA-II-based algorithm is obtained to acquire the Nash equilibrium point. Finally, we present the case testing results, which indicate that the proposed model is robust and can improve the channel efficiency of the supply chain.
Sustainable Practices in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Ecuador
Authors: Sarango-Lalangui Paúl , Álvarez-García José , Del Río-Rama María de la Cruz
Published: June 2018

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as larger enterprises, generate economic, social, and environmental impacts on their environment. However, in the case of these types of enterprises, the accumulation of these impacts is very significant in the immediate surroundings where they offer their products and services. This discussion is particularly relevant in Ecuador, where 99% of all enterprises are SMEs. The objective of this research is to find out if small and medium-sized enterprises in this country are involved in the adoption of sustainable practices as well as see if there are significant differences in adoption based on size, sector, and age. The methodology used is the performance of a descriptive analysis and regression of the data obtained through a structured questionnaire (indicators of the Ethos Institute of Brazil). Previously, the reliability of the questionnaire was validated through an exploratory factor analysis. The target population consists of 9843 enterprises, obtaining a sample size of 188 valid surveys, which implies a response rate of 2%, representing a sampling error of ±7.08%. The results obtained enabled us to perform a sustainability diagnosis of SMEs in Ecuador, identifying the strengths and weaknesses. The managers have a positive and favourable attitude towards sustainability. The practices considered show a medium-high implementation level of 79.71% in economic sustainability, 82.28% in social sustainability, and 78.14% in environmental sustainability in the enterprises considered in the sample. Although these percentages are significant, there is plenty of scope for improvement.