bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine Morphology of the Mouthparts in Cheilocapsus nigrescens (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae) Reflects Adaptation for Phytophagous Habits
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Lingfei , Dai Wu
Published: May 2019

To obtain a better understanding of feeding adaptations, the fine structure of the mouthparts in adults of Cheilocapsus nigrescens Liu and Wang, including the sculpture and interlocking mechanisms of the stylets and distribution and abundance of sensilla located on the labium, were studied using scanning electron microscopy. The mouthparts are similar to those of previously studied mirid species in most aspects and composed of a cone-shaped labrum, a tube-like, four-segmented labium with a deep groove on the anterior side, and a stylet fascicle consisting of two mandibular and two maxillary stylets. Each mandibular stylet tip has about 6–8 indistinctive notches, which help in penetrating the leaf surface. A series of transverse squamous textures are present on the adaxial surface of the mandibular stylets. The maxillary stylets interlock to form a food canal and a salivary canal, equipped with an external longitudinal process that engages grooves in the mandibular stylets. Three kinds of sensilla, including four types of sensilla basiconica (I, II, III, and IV), four types of sensilla trichodea (I, II, III, and IV), and one type of sensillum campaniformium, occur at different locations on the labium. Among them, sensilla trichodea I and II are the most abundant; sensilla basiconica II occurs between the first segment and second segment, and between the third and fourth segment. The tripartite apex of the labium consists of two lateral lobes and an apical plate. Each lateral lobe possesses a field of 11 sensilla basiconica IV and 1 sensillum trichodeum IV. The morphology of the mouthparts and the distribution of sensilla located on the labium in C. nigrescens are discussed with respect to their possible taxonomic and functional significance. In particular, the indistinct notches of the mandibular stylet and smooth inner surface of the right maxillary stylets are suited primarily for phytophagy.
Dietary Profiles, Nutritional Biochemistry Status, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Path Analysis for a Case-Control Study
Authors: Wang Liang-Jen , Yu Ya-Hui , Fu Ming-Ling , Yeh Wen-Ting , Hsu Jung-Lung , Yang Yao-Hsu , Yang Hui-Ting , Huang Shih-Yi , Wei Ien-Lan , Chen Wei J. , Chiang Bor-Luen , Pan Wen-Harn
Published: May 2019

This study aims to investigate dietary and nutritional biochemistry profiles of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to explore their potential relationship by path analysis. We enrolled 216 children with ADHD and 216 age-, height- and gender-matched controls from 31 elementary schools in Taiwan. Dietary intake of the participants was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Fasting blood samples were collected to determine the serum levels of multiple nutritional markers. Moreover, we employed a structural equation model (SEM) to link diet, nutritional markers and ADHD. Compared to healthy control, ADHD children had significantly lower serum levels of vitamin B12, folate, vitamin B6, ferritin concentration, and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), but higher levels of serum saturated fatty acids (SFA), n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio, and inorganic phosphorous concentration. Children with ADHD had more intake of nutrient-poor foods such as high sugar and high fat foods, and had less intake of vegetable, fruit, protein-rich foods than their counterpart. SEM analysis showed that the poor nutritional biochemistry profiles linked the association between unhealthy dietary patterns and ADHD. In conclusion, an unhealthy dietary pattern may be a predecessor of the poor nutritional biochemistry status, and managing diet and nutrition conditions should be considered to improve ADHD symptoms in children.
Bifurcation and Stability Analysis of a System of Fractional-Order Differential Equations for a Plant–Herbivore Model with Allee Effect
Authors: Yousef Ali , Yousef Fatma Bozkurt
Published: May 2019

This article concerns establishing a system of fractional-order differential equations (FDEs) to model a plant–herbivore interaction. Firstly, we show that the model has non-negative solutions, and then we study the existence and stability analysis of the constructed model. To investigate the case according to a low population density of the plant population, we incorporate the Allee function into the model. Considering the center manifold theorem and bifurcation theory, we show that the model shows flip bifurcation. Finally, the simulation results agree with the theoretical studies.
Some Remarks on a Variational Method for Stiff Differential Equations
Authors: Amat Sergio , Legaz María José , Pedregal Pablo
Published: May 2019

We have recently proposed a variational framework for the approximation of systems of differential equations. We associated, in a natural way, with the original problem, a certain error functional. The discretization is based on standard descent schemes, and we can use a variable-step implementation. The minimization problem has a unique solution, and the approach has a global convergence. The use of our error-functional strategy was considered by other authors, but using a completely different way to derive the discretization. Their technique was based on the use of an integral form of the Euler equation for a related optimal control problem, combined with an adapted version of the shooting method, and the cyclic coordinate descent method. In this note, we illustrate and compare our strategy to theirs from a numerical point of view.
Natural Frequency Analysis of Functionally Graded Orthotropic Cross-Ply Plates Based on the Finite Element Method
Authors: Bacciocchi Michele , Tarantino Angelo
Published: May 2019

This paper aims to present a finite element (FE) formulation for the study of the natural frequencies of functionally graded orthotropic laminated plates characterized by cross-ply layups. A nine-node Lagrange element is considered for this purpose. The main novelty of the research is the modelling of the reinforcing fibers of the orthotropic layers assuming a non-uniform distribution in the thickness direction. The Halpin–Tsai approach is employed to define the overall mechanical properties of the composite layers starting from the features of the two constituents (fiber and epoxy resin). Several functions are introduced to describe the dependency on the thickness coordinate of their volume fraction. The analyses are carried out in the theoretical framework provided by the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) for laminated thick plates. Nevertheless, the same approach is used to deal with the vibration analysis of thin plates, neglecting the shear stiffness of the structure. This objective is achieved by properly choosing the value of the shear correction factor, without any modification in the formulation. The results prove that the dynamic response of thin and thick plates, in terms of natural frequencies and mode shapes, is affected by the non-uniform placement of the fibers along the thickness direction.
Medication Adherence and Its Association with Health Literacy and Performance in Activities of Daily Livings among Elderly Hypertensive Patients in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Saqlain Muhammad , Riaz Asad , Malik Muhammad Naeem , Khan Salman , Ahmed Ali , Kamran Sohail , Ali Hussain
Published: May 2019

Background and Objective: Medication non-adherence is a preventable reason for treatment failure, poor blood pressure control among hypertensive patients and the geriatric population owing to poor physical activity is more vulnerable strata. The objective of this study is to investigate medication adherence and its associated factors among Pakistani geriatric hypertensive patients. Methods: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted at the out-patient department of the cardiac center from May 2018 to August 2018. A universal sampling technique was used to approach patients and 262 eligible consented patients were interviewed to collect information about socio-demographics, health, and disease-related characteristics using a structured questionnaire. The Morisky Levine Green test was used for the assessment of medication adherence. The Barthel index and single item literacy screener (SILS) was used to measure performance in activities of daily living and health literacy respectively. Chi-square tests and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were performed to find factors by using SPSS version 20. Results: Of the total 262 participants, about 38.9% (n = 102) were scored 4 and considered adherent while 61.1% (n = 160) were considered as non-adherent. In logistic regression analysis, self-reported moderate (OR = 3.538, p = 0.009) and good subjective health (OR = 4.249, p = 0.008), adequate health literacy (OR = 3.369, p < 0.001) and independence in performing activities of daily living (OR = 2.968, p = 0.002) were found to be independent predictors of medication adherence among older hypertensive patients. Conclusion: Medication adherence among the older hypertensive population in Pakistan is alarmingly low. This clearly requires patient-centered interventions to overcome barriers and educating them about the importance of adherence.
Comparison of Adrenal Tumor Size in Ultrasound Examinations with and without the Use of a Contrast Agent
Authors: Winder Mateusz , Spychałowicz Wojciech , Owczarek Aleksander , Chudek Jerzy
Published: May 2019

Background and objectives: Patients diagnosed with incidentally found adrenal tumors (incidentaloma) that do not meet the criteria for surgical treatment require follow-ups with repeated imaging. The aim of this study is to compare the accuracy of the measurements of the adrenal tumor size in ultrasound (US) with and without contrast in comparison to computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MRI). Further, this study attempts to answer the question of whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can improve imaging accuracy and replace CT/MRI in the monitoring of patients with adrenal tumors. Materials and Methods: The retrospective analysis included 79 adult patients with adrenal incidentalomas not exceeding a dimension of 6 cm who underwent a CT or MRI scan, US, and CEUS with the use of SonoVue in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) projections and Doppler techniques. Tumor vascularization in CEUS was classified as follows: peripheral, peripheral-central, central, or poor. Results: Of 79 adrenal tumors, 48.1% showed peripheral, 29.1% showed poor, 21.5% showed peripheral-central, and only 1.3% showed central vascularization. The median volume of tumors detected with CEUS (69.9 cm3) was significantly higher than with US (44.5 cm3) and CT or MRI (57.1 cm3). The relative error of the adrenal volume with CEUS compared with CT or MRI was significantly higher than with standard US, regardless of the type of tumor vascularization. Conclusions: CEUS does not improve the accuracy of adrenal tumor size assessment regardless of the type of vascularization.
Genotyping of Type A Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Based on Direct F Gene Sequencing
Authors: Al Aboud Daifullah , Al Aboud Nora M. , Al-Malky Mater I. R. , Abdel-Moneim Ahmed S.
Published: May 2019

Background and objectives: The human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is among the important respiratory pathogens affecting children. Genotype-specific attachment (G) gene sequencing is usually used to determine the virus genotype. The reliability of the fusion (F) gene vs. G gene genotype-specific sequencing was screened. Materials and Methods: Archival RNA from Saudi children who tested positive for hRSV-A were used. Samples were subjected to a conventional one-step RT-PCR for both F and G genes and direct gene sequencing of the amplicons using the same primer sets. Phylogeny and mutational analysis of the obtained sequences were conducted. Results: The generic primer set succeeded to amplify target gene sequences. The phylogenetic tree based on partial F gene sequencing resulted in an efficient genotyping of hRSV-A strains equivalent to the partial G gene genotyping method. NA1, ON1, and GA5 genotypes were detected in the clinical samples. The latter was detected for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Different mutations in both conserved and escape-mutant domains were detected in both F and G. Conclusion: It was concluded that a partial F gene sequence can be used efficiently for hRSV-A genotyping.
Case Report of Misleading Features of a Rare Sertoli Cell Testicular Tumor
Authors: Anglickis Marius , Stulpinas Rokas , Anglickienė Giedrė , Gabrilevičius Justinas , Jaškevičius Arūnas
Published: May 2019

Testicular Sertoli cell tumors are extremely rare. Generally, they are benign neoplasms, which belong to a group called sex cord–stromal tumors. In this article, we present a case report of a Sertoli cell tumor, which was accidentally discovered during a urological consultation of a 42-year-old male. An ultrasound showed a 2.1 × 2.2 cm hypoechogenic, hypervascular tumor in the middle third of the left testicle. Serum tumor markers (α-fetoprotein, alkaline phosphatase, β-human chorionic gonadotropin, and lactic dehydrogenase) were all within the normal range. Rapid microscopic evaluation of fresh frozen sections during the operation was inconclusive, which led to a decision not to perform a radical orchiectomy immediately. On formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sections, the tumor histology showed atypical patterns, and immunohistochemical analysis was performed in order to determine the type of neoplasm and differentiate it from other types of testicular tumors, so as to assign the further course of treatment. Radical inguinal orchiectomy was performed. The final pathology report showed a tumor with no predictive signs of aggressive behavior, which most closely resembled a Sertoli cell tumor.
Exercise Performance as a Predictor for Balance Impairment in COPD Patients
Authors: Liwsrisakun Chalerm , Pothirat Chaicharn , Chaiwong Warawut , Bumroongkit Chaiwat , Deesomchok Athavudh , Theerakittikul Theerakorn , Limsukon Atikun , Tajarernmuang Pattraporn , Phetsuk Nittaya
Published: May 2019

Background and objective: Six-minute walk test (6-MWT) is a widely used test for assessing exercise performance in chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD). However, the association between reduced walking distance and balance impairment in COPD has not been directly investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify exercise performance as a predictor for balance impairment in COPD. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at a single visit involving stable COPD patients in Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand from November 2015 to October 2017. The 6-MWT was measured for in all subjects. The prognostic confounding factors were also collected for all subjects. Balance test was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. A cut-off score of BBS < 46 and/or the TUG ≥ 13.5 s was classified as balance impairment. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to identify the six-minute walk distance (6-MWD) as a predictor for balance impairment in COPD. Results: Of the 176 COPD subjects assessed for eligibility, 118 COPD patients were enrolled including 86 males (72.9%) with a mean age of 73.5 ± 8.1 years. Thirty-three (28.0%) cases were classified with a balance impairment. The 6-MWD < 300 m was the predictor of balance impairment in COPD with an adjusted risk ratio of 10.10 (95%CI; 2.87, 35.61, p-value < 0.001). Conclusions: The 6-MWT is not only useful for evaluation of exercise performance, but also for prediction of balance impairment in patients with COPD. Our study suggests that the 6-MWD < 300 m is an important risk factor for balance impairment in COPD.
Therapeutic Role of Recombinant Human Soluble Thrombomodulin for Acute Exacerbation of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Isshiki Takuma , Sakamoto Susumu , Homma Sakae
Published: May 2019

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE-IPF) is an acute respiratory worsening of unidentifiable cause that sometimes develops during the clinical course of IPF. Although the incidence of AE-IPF is not high, prognosis is poor. The pathogenesis of AE-IPF is not well understood; however, evidence suggests that coagulation abnormalities and inflammation are involved. Thrombomodulin is a transmembranous glycoprotein found on the cell surface of vascular endothelial cells. Thrombomodulin combines with thrombin, regulates coagulation/fibrinolysis balance, and has a pivotal role in suppressing excess inflammation through its inhibition of high-mobility group box 1 protein and the complement system. Thus, thrombomodulin might be effective in the treatment of AE-IPF, and we and other groups found that recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin improved survival in patients with AE-IPF. This review summarizes the existing evidence and considers the therapeutic role of thrombomodulin in AE-IPF.
In Situ Production of Titanium Aluminides during Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing with Hot-Wire Assisted GMAW Process
Authors: Henckell Philipp , Ali Yarop , Metz Andreas , Bergmann Jean Pierre , Reimann Jan
Published: May 2019

As part of a feasibility study, an alternative production process for titanium aluminides was investigated. This process is based on in situ alloying by means of a multi-wire technique in the layer-wise additive manufacturing process. Thereby, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) was combined with additional hot-wire feeding. By using two separate wires made of titanium and aluminum, it is possible to implement the alloy formation of titanium aluminides directly in the weld bead of the welding process. In this study, wall structures were built layer-by-layer with alloy compositions between 10 at% and 55 at% aluminum by changing the feeding rates. During this investigation, the macroscopic characteristics, microstructural formation, and the change of the microhardness values were analyzed. A close examination of the influence of welding speed and post-process heat treatment on the Ti–47Al alloy was performed; this being particularly relevant due to its economically wide spread applications.
Silician Magnetite: Si–Fe-Nanoprecipitates and Other Mineral Inclusions in Magnetite from the Olympic Dam Deposit, South Australia
Authors: Ciobanu Cristiana L. , Verdugo-Ihl Max R. , Slattery Ashley , Cook Nigel J. , Ehrig Kathy , Courtney-Davies Liam , Wade Benjamin P.
Published: May 2019

A comprehensive nanoscale study on magnetite from samples from the outer, weakly mineralized shell at Olympic Dam, South Australia, has been undertaken using atom-scale resolution High Angle Annular Dark Field Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (HAADF STEM) imaging and STEM energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry mapping and spot analysis, supported by STEM simulations. Silician magnetite within these samples is characterized and the significance of nanoscale inclusions in hydrothermal and magmatic magnetite addressed. Silician magnetite, here containing Si–Fe-nanoprecipitates and a diverse range of nanomineral inclusions [(ferro)actinolite, diopside and epidote but also U-, W-(Mo), Y-As- and As-S-nanoparticles] appears typical for these samples. We observe both silician magnetite nanoprecipitates with spinel-type structures and a γ-Fe1.5SiO4 phase with maghemite structure. These are distinct from one another and occur as bleb-like and nm-wide strips along d111 in magnetite, respectively. Overprinting of silician magnetite during transition from K-feldspar to sericite is also expressed as abundant lattice-scale defects (twinning, faults) associated with the transformation of nanoprecipitates with spinel structure into maghemite via Fe-vacancy ordering. Such mineral associations are characteristic of early, alkali-calcic alteration in the iron-oxide copper gold (IOCG) system at Olympic Dam. Magmatic magnetite from granite hosting the deposit is quite distinct from silician magnetite and features nanomineral associations of hercynite-ulvöspinel-ilmenite. Silician magnetite has petrogenetic value in defining stages of ore deposit evolution at Olympic Dam and for IOCG systems elsewhere. The new data also add new perspectives into the definition of silician magnetite and its occurrence in ore deposits.
The Role of Mineral Matter in Concentrating Uranium and Thorium in Coal and Combustion Residues from Power Plants in Poland
Authors: Parzentny Henryk R. , Róg Leokadia
Published: May 2019

Based on the results of tests on feed coal from the Lublin Coal and Upper Silesian Coal Basin and its fly ash and slag carried out using X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence analysis, atomic emission spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, it was found that in feeds, coal Th is associated with phosphates and U with mineral matter. The highest Th content was found in anhedral grains of monazite and in Al-Si porous particles of fly ash of <0.05 mm size; whereas in the slag, Th is concentrated in the massive Al-Si grains and in ferrospheres. U is mainly concentrated in the Al-Si surface of porous grains, which form a part of fly ash of <0.05 mm size. In the slag, U is to be found in the Al-Si massive grains or in a dispersed form in non-magnetic and magnetic grains. Groups of mineral phase particles have been identified that have the greatest impact on the content of Th and U in whole fly ash and slag. The research results contained in this article may be important for predicting the efficiency of Th and U leaching from furnace waste storage sites and from falling dusts to soils and waters.
Silicon Wafer Functionalization with a Luminescent Tb(III) Coordination Complex: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application to the Optical Detection of NO in the Gas Phase
Authors: Bahuleyan Bijal K. , Toussaint Kathleen , Rinnert Hervé , Vallon Raphaël , Molinari Michaël , Chuburu Françoise , Cadiou Cyril
Published: May 2019

A new luminescent Tb-DOTAGA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1-glutaric-4,7,10- triacetic acid) complex (TbL) was synthesized and covalently immobilized on a silicon wafer. The grafting process was monitored by means of IR and XPS spectroscopies and the optical properties of the functionalized silicon wafer (TbL@Si) were investigated by fluorescence experiments. A homemade setup was then implemented in order to follow TbL@Si optical properties in the presence of gaseous nitric oxide (NO). The prima facie results indicated that in the presence of NO, the wafer fluorescence was partially quenched. This quenching was reversible as soon as NO was pumped outside the fluorescence cell, which could be interesting for the further development of lanthanide labelled silicon wafers as gas phase sensors.
Reconsidering the Role of Cyclooxygenase Inhibition in the Chemotherapeutic Value of NO-Releasing Aspirins for Lung Cancer
Authors: Martin-Martin Antonia , Rivera-Dictter Andrés , Muñoz-Uribe Matías , López-Contreras Freddy , Pérez-Laines Jorge , Molina-Berríos Alfredo , López-Muñoz Rodrigo
Published: May 2019

Nitric oxide-releasing aspirins (NO-aspirins) are aspirin derivatives that are safer than the parent drug in the gastrointestinal context and have shown superior cytotoxic effects in several cancer models. Despite the rationale for their design, the influence of nitric oxide (NO•) on the effects of NO-aspirins has been queried. Moreover, different isomers exhibit varying antitumor activity, apparently related to their ability to release NO•. Here, we investigated the effects and mode of action of NO-aspirins in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, comparing two isomers, NCX4016 and NCX4040 (-meta and -para isomers, respectively). NCX4040 was more potent in decreasing NSCLC cell viability and migration and exhibited significant synergistic effects in combination with erlotinib (an epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor) in erlotinib-resistant cells. We also studied the relationship among the effects of NO-aspirins, NO• release, and PGE2 levels. NCX4040 released more NO• and significantly decreased PGE2 synthesis relative to NCX4016; however, NO• scavenger treatment reversed the antiproliferative effects of NCX4016, but not those of NCX4040. By contrast, misoprostol (a PGE2 receptor agonist) significantly reversed the antiproliferative effect of NCX4040, but not those of NCX4016. Furthermore, misoprostol reversed the antimigratory effects of NCX4040. Overall, these results indicate that PGE2 inhibition is important in the mode of action of NO-aspirins.
Neuroprotective and Anti-Amyloid β Effect and Main Chemical Profiles of White Tea: Comparison Against Green, Oolong and Black Tea
Authors: Li Xinlei , Smid Scott D. , Lin Jun , Gong Zhihong , Chen Si , You Fangning , Zhang Yan , Hao Zhilong , Lin Hongzheng , Yu Xiaomin , Jin Xinyi
Published: May 2019

White tea (WT) is one of six tea types originally derived from Fujian Province, China. White tea is known for its health-promoting properties. However, the neuroprotective and anti-aggregatory properties of WT against the hallmark toxic Alzheimer’s protein, Aβ have not been investigated. In this study, WT, green tea (GT), oolong tea (OT) and black tea (BT) were manufactured using tea leaves from the cultivar Camellia sinensis (Jin Guanyin). The protective effects of these tea extracts were then studied under oxidative stress conditions via t-bhp and H2O2 exposure, in addition to Aβ treatment using a PC-12 cell model. Each tea type failed to rescue PC-12 cells from either t-bhp or H2O2-mediated toxicity, however each extract exerted significant protection against Aβ-evoked neurotoxicity. Results of the Thioflavin T Kinetic (ThT) and TEM assay showed that Aβ aggregate formation was inhibited by each tea type. Additionally, TEM also supported the different anti-aggregatory effect of WT by modifying Aβ into an amorphous and punctate aggregate morphology. Higher accumulated precedent or potential neuroprotective compounds in WT, including ECG’’3Me, 8-C-ascorbyl-EGCG, GABA and Gln, in addition to flavonol or flavone glycosides detected by using UPLC-QTOF-MS and UPLC-QqQ-MS, may contribute to a favourable anti-aggregative and neuroprotective effect of WT against Aβ.
Pharmacokinetic Studies of Three Alkaloids in Rats After Intragastrical Administration of Lycopodii Herba Extract by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Ma Dongke , Gu Xiaoting , Wang Xin , Liu Youping , Di Xin
Published: May 2019

Lycopodii Herba is a widely used traditional medicinal herb, and contains diverse fascinating alkaloids. In this study, a fast and sensitive LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of lycodoline, α-obscurine, and N-demethyl-α-obscurine from Lycopodii Herba in rat plasma and brain tissue was developed and validated. Biological samples were extracted via a protein precipitation procedure using methanol as the extraction solvent and Huperzine B as the internal standard. Chromatographic separation was carried out using a Thermo Syncronis-C18 column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 5 μm) and a gradient mobile phase containing methanol and water with 0.05% formic acid. The three alkaloids were detected by positive electrospray ionization in selective reaction monitoring mode. The selectivity, crosstalk, carryover effect, linearity, accuracy, precision, extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability of the current method were validated. Then, using the validated method, the plasma pharmacokinetics and brain tissue distribution of the alkaloids in rats were investigated after intragastrical administration of Lycopodii Herba extract. The three alkaloids were shown to be rapidly absorbed into the blood (Tmax, 0.79–1.58 h), and then also eliminated rapidly (t1/2, 1.27–2.24 h). All of them could pass through the blood–brain barrier. The method provides a new research approach to expand preclinical studies of Lycopodii Herba.
Comparison of Multiple Bioactive Constituents in the Flower and the Caulis of Lonicera japonica Based on UFLC-QTRAP-MS/MS Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Cai Zhichen , Wang Chengcheng , Zou Lisi , Liu Xunhong , Chen Jiali , Tan Mengxia , Mei Yuqi , Wei Lifang
Published: May 2019

Lonicerae japonicae flos (LJF) and Lonicerae japonicae caulis (LJC) are derived from different parts of Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Caprifoliaceae), and have been used as herbal remedies to treat various diseases for thousands of years with confirmed curative effects. However, little attention has been paid to illustrating the differences in efficacy from the perspective of phytochemistry. In the present study, a simultaneous determination of 47 bioactive constituents, including 12 organic acids, 12 flavonoids, six iridoids, 13 amino acids and four nucleosides in 44 batches of LJF and LJC samples from different habitats and commercial herbs was established based on ultra-fast liquid chromatography tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UFLC-QTRAP-MS/MS). Moreover, principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and t-test were then performed to classify and reveal the differential compositions of LJF and LJC according to the content of the tested constituents. The results demonstrated that the types and contents of chemical components (e.g., isochlorogenic acid A, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, quinic acid, secologanic acid, luteoloside, loganin, secoxyloganin, morroniside and L-isoleucine) were significantly different, which may lead to the classification and the differences in efficacy of LJF and LJC. Our findings not only provide a basis for the comprehensive evaluation and intrinsic quality control of LJF and LJC, but also pave the way for discovering the material basis contributing to the different properties and efficacies of the two medicinal materials at the phytochemical level.
N-Methyl-d-glucamine–Calix[4]resorcinarene Conjugates: Self-Assembly and Biological Properties
Authors: Kashapov Ruslan R. , Razuvayeva Yuliya S. , Ziganshina Albina Y. , Mukhitova Rezeda K. , Sapunova Anastasiia S. , Voloshina Alexandra D. , Syakaev Victor V. , Latypov Shamil K. , Nizameev Irek R. , Kadirov Marsil K. , Zakharova Lucia Y.
Published: May 2019

Deep insight of the toxicity of supramolecular systems based on macrocycles is of fundamental interest because of their importance in biomedical applications. What seems to be most interesting in this perspective is the development of the macrocyclic compounds with biocompatible fragments. Here, calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives containing N-methyl- d-glucamine moieties at the upper rim and different chemical groups at the lower rim were synthesized and investigated. These macrocycles showed a tendency to self-aggregate in aqueous solution, and their self-assembly abilities depend on the structure of the lower rim. The in vitro cytotoxic and antimicrobial activity of the calix[4]resorcinarenes revealed the relationship of biological properties with the ability to aggregate. Compared to macrocycles with methyl groups on the lower rim, calix[4]resorcinarenes with sulfonate groups appear to possess very similar antibacterial properties, but over six times less hemolytic activity. In some ways, this is the first example that reveals the dependence of the observed hemolytic and antibacterial activity on the lipophilicity of the calix[4]arene structure.
The Separation of the Mn12 Single-Molecule Magnets onto Spherical Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Laskowski Lukasz , Kityk Iwan , Konieczny Piotr , Pastukh Oleksandr , Schabikowski Mateusz , Laskowska Magdalena
Published: May 2019

The Mn12 single-molecule magnets (SMMs) could be attached to the surface of spherical silica for the first time with a high probability. This allowed separation of the individual molecular magnets and direct microscopic observation of the SMMs. We described in detail how to fabricate such a composite material. The synthesis procedure proposed here is simple and efficient. We confirmed the efficiency of the method by transmission electron microscopy (TEM): single-molecule magnets were visible at the surface of a silica substrate. Based on TEM observation, we described how the molecules anchor to the surface of silica (the geometry of the magnetic molecule in regard to the surface of the substrate). The SQUID magnetometry showed that single-molecule magnet behaviour is kept intact after grafting. The attachment of the single-molecule magnets to the surface of silica allows to investigate their properties as separate molecules. This is particularly important in the analysis of magnetic properties such as magnetic states of the separated SMMs, their mutual interactions, and the influence of a silica support.
Pulse Duration and Wavelength Effects of Laser Ablation on the Oxidation, Hydrolysis, and Aging of Aluminum Nanoparticles in Water
Authors: Zhang Ke , Ivanov Dmitry S. , Ganeev Rashid A. , Boltaev Ganjaboy S. , Krishnendu Pandiyalackal S. , Singh Subhash C. , Garcia Martin E. , Zavestovskaya Irina N. , Guo Chunlei
Published: May 2019

We analyzed the formation of the aluminum (Al) nanoparticles (NPs) with triangular shape obtained by ablating Al bulk in liquid using pulses with different durations (5 ns, 200 ps, and 30 fs) and wavelengths (355 nm, 800 nm, and 1064 nm). We report three stages of synthesis and aging of Al NPs: Formation, transformation, and stable stage. The NPs prepared by different pulses are almost identical at the initial stage. The effects of duration and wavelength of the ablation pulses on the aging of NPs are revealed. Pulse duration is determined to be essential for morphological transformation of NPs, while pulse wavelength strongly influences particle sizes. NPs produced by ultra-short pulses have smaller sizes and narrow size distribution. We demonstrate that oxidation and hydrolysis of Al in water are the results of ablation for all pulse durations and wavelengths, which also strongly modify the preferable reaction path of NPs in water, thus affecting the composition and morphology of triangle NPs. The results of modeling of the NPs generation in water due to a 50 ps laser pulse interacting with a thick Al target are presented. Water-based effects in the formation of NPs, their evolution, and solidification are considered from the mechanical and thermophysical points of view. The detailed analysis of the modeling results allowed for determination of the main mechanism responsible for the ablation process followed by the NPs formation.
CoMn2O4 Catalyst Prepared Using the Sol-Gel Method for the Activation of Peroxymonosulfate and Degradation of UV Filter 2-Phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic Acid (PBSA)
Authors: Lin Chihao , Shi Dejian , Wu Zhentao , Zhang Lingfeng , Zhai Zhicai , Fang Yingsen , Sun Ping , Han Ruirui , Wu Jiaqiang , Liu Hui
Published: May 2019

In this study, a bimetallic oxide catalyst of cobalt-manganese (CoMn2O4) was synthesized using the sol-gel method, and it was then characterized using a variety of techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms. The obtained novel catalyst, i.e., CoMn2O4, was then used as an activator of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the catalytic degradation of a commonly-used UV filter, 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid (PBSA) in water. The effects of various factors (e.g., catalyst dosage, PMS concentration, reaction temperature, and pH) in the process were also evaluated. Chemical scavengers and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests showed that the •OH and SO4•− were the main reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, this study showed that CoMn2O4 is a promising catalyst for activating PMS to degrade the UV filters.
Effects and Mechanisms of Tea Regulating Blood Pressure: Evidences and Promises
Authors: Li Daxiang , Wang Ruru , Huang Jinbao , Cai Qingshuang , Yang Chung S. , Wan Xiaochun , Xie Zhongwen
Published: May 2019

Cardiovascular diseases have overtaken cancers as the number one cause of death. Hypertension is the most dangerous factor linked to deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases. Many researchers have reported that tea has anti-hypertensive effects in animals and humans. The aim of this review is to update the information on the anti-hypertensive effects of tea in human interventions and animal studies, and to summarize the underlying mechanisms, based on ex-vivo tissue and cell culture data. During recent years, an increasing number of human population studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of tea on hypertension. However, the optimal dose has not yet been established owing to differences in the extent of hypertension, and complicated social and genetic backgrounds of populations. Therefore, further large-scale investigations with longer terms of observation and tighter controls are needed to define optimal doses in subjects with varying degrees of hypertensive risk factors, and to determine differences in beneficial effects amongst diverse populations. Moreover, data from laboratory studies have shown that tea and its secondary metabolites have important roles in relaxing smooth muscle contraction, enhancing endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity, reducing vascular inflammation, inhibiting rennin activity, and anti-vascular oxidative stress. However, the exact molecular mechanisms of these activities remain to be elucidated.
Are Older Adults without a Healthy Diet Less Physically Active and More Sedentary?
Authors: Hsueh Ming-Chun , Rutherford Ru , Huang Yi-Hsuan , Chang Chien Hung-Yu , Chang Chia-Hui , Park Jong-Hwan , Liao Yung
Published: May 2019

Few studies on older populations consider several energy balance-related behaviors together. This cross-sectional study compared subjectively and objectively measured physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) patterns between older adults with and without a healthy diet. We recruited 127 community-dwelling older Taiwanese adults (69.9 ± 5.0 years); data were collected during April and September 2018. Objectively measured total PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA, light PA, step count, total sedentary time, duration of sedentary bouts, number of sedentary bouts, and number of sedentary breaks were assessed using activity monitors. Subjectively measured PA and SB were measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire for Older Adults. Chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests were performed. For subjective measures, older adults without a healthy diet spent significantly less total leisure time on PA and more leisure sitting time than those with a healthy diet. For objective measures, older adults without a healthy diet spent less time on light PA and had a higher total sedentary time, duration of sedentary bouts, times of sedentary bouts, and times of sedentary breaks than those with a healthy diet. Regardless of the use of objective or subjective measurements, older adults without a healthy diet engaged in a more inactive and sedentary lifestyle. These findings have implications for health promotion practitioners in designing tailored interventions.
Ginsenosides Rg5 and Rk1 Enriched Cultured Wild Ginseng Root Extract Bioconversion of Pediococcus pentosaceus HLJG0702: Effect on Scopolamine-Induced Memory Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: An Kyu Sup , Choi Yeo Ok , Lee So Min , Ryu Hyeon Yeol , Kang Su Jin , Yeon Yong , Kim Yu Ri , Lee Jae Geun , Kim Chul Joong , Lee Ye ji , Kang Byeong Ju , Choi Jee Eun , Song Kyung Seuk
Published: May 2019

Wild ginseng is known to contain additional physiologically and pharmacologically active substances than common ginseng. The utilization of this herb can be maximized by altering its composition via tissue culture generating adventitious roots. We enriched the content of specific ginsenosides and investigated their role in ameliorating memory impairment. Cultured wild ginseng root was subjected to extraction, steaming, and fermentation using Pediococcus pentosaceus HLJG0702 to enhance the levels of ginsenosides Rg5 /Rk1. The analysis of product, HLJG0701, confirmed target ginsenosides. We analyzed the inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg5/Rk1, HLJG0701 and the raw material on acetylcholinesterase. Further, we performed Morris water maze, Y-maze, and passive avoidance tasks with mice exhibiting memory deficit induced by scopolamine, and we analyzed the concentrations of acetylcholinesterase and acetylcholine in their brains. Studies showed that the levels of ginsenosides Rg5 /Rk1, not found in the raw material, were enhanced in HLJG0701. Ginsenosides and HLJG0701 significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase unlike the raw material. In all behavioral tasks, HLJG0701 showed memory improvement. It reduced acetylcholinesterase, whereas, it preserved acetylcholine in brain. In conclusion, cultured wild ginseng root extract fermented by P. pentosaceus HLJG0702 contains the distinctive ginsenosides Rg5/Rk1, which may ameliorate memory impairment via inhibition of acetylcholinesterase resulting in increased acetylcholine levels in the brain.
Differential Helicobacter pylori Plasticity in the Gastric Niche of Subjects at Increased Gastric Cancer Risk
Authors: Casarotto Mariateresa , Pratesi Chiara , Bidoli Ettore , Maiero Stefania , Magris Raffaella , Steffan Agostino , Basaglia Giancarlo , Canzonieri Vincenzo , De Re Valli , Cannizzaro Renato , Zanussi Stefania
Published: May 2019

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) represents an independent risk factor for Gastric Cancer (GC). First Degree Relatives (FDR) of GC subjects and Autoimmune Gastritis (AG) patients are both at increased risk for GC. H. pylori genetic heterogeneity within the gastric niche of FDR and AG individuals has been little explored. To understand whether they exploit an increased H. pylori stability and virulence, 14 AG, 25 FDR, 39 GC and 13 dyspeptic patients (D) were investigated by a cultural PCR-based approach characterizing single colonies-forming-units. We chose three loci within the Cytotoxin-associated gene-A Pathogenicity Island (CagPAI) (cagA,cagE,virB11), vacA, homA and homB as markers of virulence with reported association to GC. Inflammatory/precancerous lesions were staged according to Sydney System. When compared to D, FDR, similarly to GC patients, were associated to higher atrophy (OR = 6.29; 95% CI:1.23–31.96 in FDR; OR = 7.50; 95% CI:1.67–33.72 in GC) and a lower frequency of mixed infections (OR = 0.16; 95% CI:0.03–0.81 in FDR; OR = 0.10; 95% CI:0.02–0.48 in GC). FDR presented also an increased neutrophil infiltration (OR = 7.19; 95% CI:1.16–44.65). Both FDR and GC carried a higher proportion of CagPAI+vacAs1i1mx+homB+ profiles (OR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.66–4.41 and OR = 3.43; 95% CI: 2.16–5.44, respectively). Conversely, AG patients presented a lower frequency of subtypes carrying a stable CagPAI and vacAs1i1mx. These results underline different H. pylori plasticity in FDR and AG individuals, and thus, a different host-bacterium interaction capacity that should be considered in the context of eradication therapies.
Occurrence of Bovine Cysticercosis in Two Regions of the State of Tocantins-Brazil and the Importance of Pathogen Identification
Authors: FIGUEIREDO Benta Natânia Silva , LIBóRIO Ricardo Alencar , SATO Megumi , da SILVA Camila Figueira , PEREIRA-JUNIOR Ronaldo Alves , CHIGUSA Yuichi , KAWAI Satoru , SATO Marcello Otake
Published: May 2019

Bovine cysticercosis, caused by Taenia saginata metacestodes, is the cause of significant economic losses to the meat production chain by condemnation and downgrading of infected carcasses. It is also a public health issue causing human taeniasis. This study evaluated the occurrence of bovine cysticercosis at the meat inspection procedures in slaughterhouses of south and north regions of the Tocantins State in Brazil. Specimens identified as cysts of T. saginata were collected and analyzed by molecular (PCR) and histopathological techniques. The cysts were collected from March to December of 2010 in slaughterhouses located in the cities of Alvorada (South) and Araguaína (North). The frequency of cystic lesions during the study was 0.033% (53/164,091) with 69.81% of calcified lesions and 30.9% of live cysts at meat inspection. From 14 samples submitted to molecular analysis, 28.57% (4/14) were positive for T. saginata. The histopathological analysis of the non-T. saginata samples showed lesions suggestive of granuloma and hydatid disease. The results indicated that the identification of the etiological agent is difficult by macroscopic inspection, emphasizing the need to associate specific diagnostic methods at meat inspection in abattoirs. In addition, species-specific PCR would be an effective tool for diagnosis, monitoring, and identifying cysticercosis, assisting the conventional tests.
Multi-Objective Optimal Scheduling Method for a Grid-Connected Redundant Residential Microgrid
Authors: Liu Weiliang , Liu Changliang , Lin Yongjun , Bai Kang , Ma Liangyu , Chen Wenying
Published: May 2019

Optimal scheduling of a redundant residential microgrid (RR-microgrid) could yield economical savings and reduce the emission of pollutants while ensuring the comfort level of users. This paper proposes a novel multi-objective optimal scheduling method for a grid-connected RR-microgrid in which the heating/cooling system of the RR-microgrid is treated as a virtual energy storage system (VESS). An optimization model for grid-connected RR-microgrid scheduling is established based on mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP), which takes the operating cost (OC), thermal comfort level (TCL), and pollution emission (PE) as the optimization objectives. The non-dominate sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is employed to search the Pareto front and the best scheduling scheme is determined by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. In a case study, two kinds of heating/cooling systems, the radiant floor heating/cooling system (RFHCS) and the convection heating/cooling system (CHCS) are investigated for the RR-microgrid. respectively, and the feasibility and validity of the scheduling method are ascertained.
Religion and Politics in the People’s Republic of China: An Appraisal of Continuing Mistrust and Misunderstanding
Authors: Woo Tak-ling Terry
Published: May 2019

Western media reports on the relationship between state and religion in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), American media especially often focuses on the anti-religious repression and violence in the Tibetan Autonomous and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Regions on the western border of the country. These accounts shape a particular understanding of the PRC that fuels mistrust and misunderstanding. This essay seeks to understand elements that contribute to this journalistic orientation first by looking at government documents that outline the legal parameters for the practice of religion for both citizens and foreigners; second, by examining official U.S. oversight and critique of these; and finally, by considering accounts of accommodation and cooperation between the official institutions and religious practitioners and organizations. The PRC documents include two White Papers on official policies and a memorandum on religious charity work, “Provisions” for foreigners and “Regulations” for Chinese citizens. Also included will be critical analyses and commentaries from the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China and the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor within the State Department. Finally, accounts of the evangelical Christian Gospel Rehab in Yunnan and various Hui Muslim communities and individuals in Dubai will illustrate the multiple strategies used by the government in handling religious groups. The records suggest that the mistrust and misunderstanding between the two powers grow out of vastly different assumptions, perspectives and interpretations of the situation. They show that the PRC and the U.S. are very far apart in their understanding of religion in mainland China. While the communist state understands itself to be fighting separatists and terrorists in the western border regions in order to maintain security, peace and stability in the country, the Americans see the Chinese as persecuting religious and ethnic minorities.