bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma Aldosterone Concentration as a Determinant for Statin Use among Middle-Aged Hypertensive Patients for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Lin Jui-Hsiang , Lin Yu-Feng , Wang Wei-Jie , Lin Yuh-Feng , Chueh Shih-Chieh , Wu Vin-Cent , Chu Tzong-Shinn , Wu Kwan-Dun ,   On behalf of the Taiwan Primary Aldosteronism Investigation (TAIPAI) Study Group
Published: October 2018

The use of statin therapy on the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is recommended by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA); nevertheless, its validation on primary aldosteronism (PA) patients has not been reported. We investigated the risk of incident ASCVD in middle-aged patients with PA compared with essential hypertension (EH) based on ACC/AHA recommendations. We enrolled 461 PA patients and 553 EH patients. Even though the ratio of metabolic syndrome in each group was similar, the PA group had higher systolic blood pressures, higher low-density lipoprotein levels, higher plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), lower high-density lipoprotein levels, and higher 10-year ASCVD compared to the EH group. The discriminative power for predicting ASCVD by the recommended statin use from the ACC/AHA guidelines was proper in the PA group (i.e., under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% confidence interval; 0.94 (0.91–0.96)). The generalized additive model showed patients with PAC higher than 60 ng/dL accompanying the standard timing of the statin use suggested by the ACC/AHA. The ACC/AHA guidelines have good discriminative power in the prediction of middle-aged high-risk hypertensive patients, while PAC identifies those high-risk individuals who may benefit from early statin therapy.
Evaluation of an Analytical Model in the Prediction of Machining Temperature of AISI 1045 Steel and AISI 4340 Steel
Authors: Ning Jinqiang , Liang Steven Y.
Published: October 2018

This paper evaluates a physics-based analytical model in the prediction of machining temperature of AISI 1045 steel and AISI 4340 steel. The prediction model was developed based on the Johnson-Cook constitutive model (J-C model) and mechanics of the orthogonal cutting process. The average temperatures at two shear zones were predicted by minimizing the difference between calculated stresses using the J-C model and calculated stresses using the mechanics model. In this work, (1) the influence of input Johnson-Cook model constants, cutting force, and chip thickness on the accuracy of predictions are investigated with sensitivity analyses, in which multiple sets of available J-C constants and varying cutting force and chip thickness are used for the temperature prediction in machining AISI 1045 steel. The larger the input deviation, the larger prediction deviation. The temperature at the primary shear zone is more susceptible to the deviation of inputs than the temperature at the secondary shear zone. (2) The machining temperatures are also predicted in machining AISI 4340 steel using cutting tools with various specifications to demonstrate its predictive capability. Good agreements are observed upon validation to available experimental data in the literature. (3) Lastly, the advantage and limitation of the temperature model are discussed with comparison other analytical temperature models. Considering the reliable and easily measurable input requirements and sufficient predictive capability, this temperature model can be employed for effective and efficient machining temperature prediction.
Refunctionalization and Usage Frequency: An Exploratory Questionnaire Study
Authors: Rosemeyer Malte
Published: October 2018

This paper explores the relationship between refunctionalization and usage frequency. In particular, it argues that (a) refunctionalization is more likely for low-frequency construction than high-frequency constructions, and that (b) high-frequency patterns are more likely candidates as models for refunctionalization processes than low-frequency patterns. It proposes that folk etymology processes be characterized as a type of refunctionalization process because in folk etymology, obsolescent and semantically void morphemes are replaced with morphemes that actually serve a function in language. This assumption allows for an empirical investigation of refunctionalization using an exploratory questionnaire study. The results indicate that usage frequency indeed plays a role in folk etymology processes, and consequently, refunctionalization. In particular, participants were more likely to accept false etymologies when the proposed etymon had a high usage frequency than when it had a low usage frequency. In summary, the present study proposes a way to study refunctionalization processes in synchrony.
Study on the Microstructure Evolution and Tungsten Content Optimization of 9Cr-3W-3Co Steel
Authors: Ma Longteng , Wang Yanfeng , Di Guobiao
Published: October 2018

Creep rupture tests of 9Cr-3W-3Co steel were conducted in the range of 120 to 200 MPa at 650 °C. The influence of stress on microstructure evolution was investigated in detail. In the high stress regime, a large density of dislocation was generated and induced precipitation of fine and dispersive particles. However, at lower stresses, a transformation from martensite laths to large size subgrains and a coarsening of precipitates took place due to significant recovery and loss of pinning effect during long term exposure. Thermodynamic results revealed decreasing tungsten content effectively retarded the coarsening behavior of M23C6 and Laves phase, hence further improvement of creep rupture time was achieved experimentally.
Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acid on STAMP2 Expression in the Heart and Kidney of 5/6 Nephrectomy Rat Model
Authors: Lee Hye Won , Lee Su Mi , Lee Mi Hwa , Son Young Ki , Kim Seong Eun , An Won Suk
Published: October 2018

Six transmembrane protein of prostate 2 (STAMP2) is a critical modulator of inflammation and metabolism in adipose tissue. There are no data on the expression of STAMP2 in chronic kidney disease, which is an inflammatory disease related to metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate STAMP2 expression in the kidney and heart in 5/6 nephrectomy (Nx) rats, and the effect of omega-3 fatty acid (FA) on STAMP2 expression. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups: sham control (0.9% saline), 5/6 Nx (0.9% saline), and 5/6 Nx treated with omega-3 FA (300 mg per kg per day by gastric gavage). The expression of STAMP2 in the kidney and heart were examined by western blotting. Serum creatinine levels were higher in 5/6 Nx rats than in controls. Compared with sham controls, the expression of IκB, NF-κB, NOX4, SREBP-1, and LXR were upregulated and STAMP2 and phosphorylated-AMPK expression were downregulated in the kidney and heart of 5/6 Nx rats. Omega-3 FA supplementation prevented these changes in biomarkers related to inflammation and metabolic lipid disorders. Omega 3-FA supplementation induced the upregulation of STAMP2 protein in 5/6 Nx rats, which was associated with an attenuation of inflammation- and metabolic disease-related markers.
Novel Antimicrobial Peptides from the Arctic Polychaeta Nicomache minor Provide New Molecular Insight into Biological Role of the BRICHOS Domain
Authors: Panteleev Pavel V. , Tsarev Andrey V. , Bolosov Ilia A. , Paramonov Alexander S. , Marggraf Mariana B. , Sychev Sergey V. , Shenkarev Zakhar O. , Ovchinnikova Tatiana V.
Published: October 2018

Endogenous antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are among the earliest molecular factors in the evolution of animal innate immunity. In this study, novel AMPs named nicomicins were identified in the small marine polychaeta Nicomache minor in the Maldanidae family. Full-length mRNA sequences encoded 239-residue prepropeptides consisting of a putative signal sequence region, the BRICHOS domain within an acidic proregion, and 33-residue mature cationic peptides. Nicomicin-1 was expressed in the bacterial system, and its spatial structure was analyzed by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Nicomicins are unique among polychaeta AMPs scaffolds, combining an amphipathic N-terminal α-helix and C-terminal extended part with a six-residue loop stabilized by a disulfide bridge. This structural arrangement resembles the Rana-box motif observed in the α-helical host-defense peptides isolated from frog skin. Nicomicin-1 exhibited strong in vitro antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria at submicromolar concentrations. The main mechanism of nicomicin-1 action is based on membrane damage but not on the inhibition of bacterial translation. The peptide possessed cytotoxicity against cancer and normal adherent cells as well as toward human erythrocytes.
Dissimilar Materials Joining of Carbon Fiber Polymer to Dual Phase 980 by Friction Bit Joining, Adhesive Bonding, and Weldbonding
Authors: Lim Yong , Park Hoonmo , Jang Junho , McMurray Jake , Lokitz Bradly , Keum Jong , Wu Zhenggang , Feng Zhili
Published: October 2018

In the present work, joining of a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer and dual phase 980 steel was studied using the friction bit joining, adhesive bonding, and weldbonding processes. The friction bit joining process was optimized for the maximum joint strength by varying the process parameters. Then, the adhesive bonding and weld bonding (friction bit joining plus adhesive bonding) processes were further developed. Lap shear tensile and cross-tension testing were used to assess the joint integrity of each process. Fractured specimens were compared for the individual processes. The microstructures in the joining bit ranged from tempered martensite to fully martensite in the cross-section view of friction bit-joined specimens. Additionally, the thermal decomposition temperature of the as-received carbon fiber composite was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. Fourier-transform infrared–attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements showed minimal variations in the absorption peak and diffraction peak patterns, indicating insignificant thermal degradation of the carbon fiber matrix due to friction bit joining.
Corrosion of Copper in Unpolluted Chloride-Rich Atmospheres
Authors: Lopesino Patricia , Alcántara Jenifer , De la Fuente Daniel , Chico Belén , Jiménez José Antonio , Morcillo Manuel
Published: October 2018

The atmospheric corrosion of copper in pure coastal atmospheres has not been extensively studied. This paper presents the results of research carried out in pure coastal atmospheres with annual chloride deposition rates of between 110–1640 mg/m2·d. Copper specimens (99.99 wt % Cu) were exposed for 3, 6, 9, and 12 months at six testing stations located at different distances from the seashore. Tests were performed to determine the copper corrosion rate, the surface area coated with corrosion products, and the evolution of both magnitudes with exposure time. Conventional and grazing X-ray diffraction techniques were used to analyze the corrosion products formed—cuprite and the polymorphs botallackite, atacamite, and clinoatacamite—and their presence through the patina thickness, while scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry was employed to study the morphology of the resulting corrosion layers. The most relevant findings are a notable increase in atacamite and clinoatacamite formation at higher atmospheric salinity levels and longer exposure times, and the flaking-off of the corrosion product layer formed in the marine atmospheres with the highest chloride deposition rates.
The Effect of Electromagnetic Stirring on the Microstructure Evolution of Cu-15%Co Alloy
Authors: Zhang Lin , Yu Jinfeng , Wang Wenbin , Xiang Zhaolong , Wang Engang
Published: October 2018

Cu-15%Co alloys have been synthesized by an induction furnace adopting electromagnetic stirring (EMS). The liquid-liquid separation behavior and the peritectic reaction under a forced melt flow were analyzed. The specimens were subjected to a conventional induction melting as well as enhanced melt stirring by a two-side electromagnetic stirrer. The stirred ingots showed a significant improvement in dispersivity and homogeneity of the Co-rich phase. Comparing the specimens subjected to different current intensities, we observed strong changes in the phase fraction, the degree of segregation, and the grain size. EMS had an effect of reducing the amount and size of Co-rich droplets and enhancing the amounts of small equiaxed dendrites and dendrite fragments, which led to a more dispersive distribution of α-Co phase and refined the grains of Cu-rich phase. We observed a considerable increase in the fraction of peritectic Cu-rich phase with increasing current intensity of EMS, indicating that the peritectic reaction was promoted by EMS. EMS also reduced the macrosegregation of Co-rich phase in both the vertical and radial direction of the ingot when the current intensity was appropriate.
A Review of Fast Bubble-Driven Micromotors Powered by Biocompatible Fuel: Low-Concentration Fuel, Bioactive Fluid and Enzyme
Authors: Chi Qingjia , Wang Zhen , Tian Feifei , You Ji’an , Xu Shuang
Published: October 2018

Micromotors are extensively applied in various fields, including cell separation, drug delivery and environmental protection. Micromotors with high speed and good biocompatibility are highly desirable. Bubble-driven micromotors, propelled by the recoil effect of bubbles ejection, show good performance of motility. The toxicity of concentrated hydrogen peroxide hampers their practical applications in many fields, especially biomedical ones. In this paper, the latest progress was reviewed in terms of constructing fast, bubble-driven micromotors which use biocompatible fuels, including low-concentration fuels, bioactive fluids, and enzymes. The geometry of spherical and tubular micromotors could be optimized to acquire good motility using a low-concentration fuel. Moreover, magnesium- and aluminum-incorporated micromotors move rapidly in water if the passivation layer is cleared in the reaction process. Metal micromotors demonstrate perfect motility in native acid without any external chemical fuel. Several kinds of enzymes, including catalase, glucose oxidase, and ureases were investigated to serve as an alternative to conventional catalysts. They can propel micromotors in dilute peroxide or in the absence of peroxide.
A Bidirectional Neuromodulation Technology for Nerve Recording and Stimulation
Authors: Xu Jian , Guo Hongsun , Nguyen Anh Tuan , Lim Hubert , Yang Zhi
Published: October 2018

Electrical nerve recording and stimulation technologies are critically needed to monitor and modulate nerve activity to treat a variety of neurological diseases. However, current neuromodulation technologies presented in the literature or commercially available products cannot support simultaneous recording and stimulation on the same nerve. To solve this problem, a new bidirectional neuromodulation system-on-chip (SoC) is proposed in this paper, which includes a frequency-shaping neural recorder and a fully integrated neural stimulator with charge balancing capability. In addition, auxiliary circuits consisting of power management and data transmission circuits are designed to provide the necessary power supply for the SoC and the bidirectional data communication between the SoC and an external computer via a universal serial bus (USB) interface, respectively. To achieve sufficient low input noise for sensing nerve activity at a sub-10 μ V range, several noise reduction techniques are developed in the neural recorder. The designed SoC was fabricated in a 0.18 μ m high-voltage Bipolar CMOS DMOS (BCD) process technology that was described in a previous publication and it has been recently tested in animal experiments that demonstrate the proposed SoC is capable of achieving reliable and simultaneous electrical stimulation and recording on the same nerve.
Applications of Photonic Crystal Nanobeam Cavities for Sensing
Authors: Qiao Qifeng , Xia Ji , Lee Chengkuo , Zhou Guangya
Published: October 2018

In recent years, there has been growing interest in optical sensors based on microcavities due to their advantages of size reduction and enhanced sensing capability. In this paper, we aim to give a comprehensive review of the field of photonic crystal nanobeam cavity-based sensors. The sensing principles and development of applications, such as refractive index sensing, nanoparticle sensing, optomechanical sensing, and temperature sensing, are summarized and highlighted. From the studies reported, it is demonstrated that photonic crystal nanobeam cavities, which provide excellent light confinement capability, ultra-small size, flexible on-chip design, and easy integration, offer promising platforms for a range of sensing applications.
Respiratory Motion Sensor Measuring Capacitance Constructed across Skin in Daily Activities
Authors: Terazawa Makie , Karita Momoko , Kumagai Shinya , Sasaki Minoru
Published: October 2018

In this work, a respiratory sensor is studied, measuring the capacitance constructed by attached electrodes on the abdomen. Based on previous findings, that skin thickness changes caused by respiration provides the signal, the fitting condition of the electrode on the skin is stabilized using a 7-μm-thick dressing film. This film can be comfortably worn for a long time, while maintaining the electrode’s position on the skin. This stabilized setup enables the detection of, not only respiration, as the cyclic capacitance change, but also of minute body volume changes over the daytime, as a change in the base line indicates the quality of the sensor signal. For this demonstration, the respiration signal is measured during the daily activity of exercise and 6-min walks.
An Integrated Model for Ilmenite, Al-Spinel, and Corundum Exsolutions in Titanomagnetite from Oxide-Rich Layers of the Lac Doré Complex (Québec, Canada)
Authors: Arguin Jean-Philippe , Pagé Philippe , Barnes Sarah-Jane , Girard Réjean , Duran Charley
Published: October 2018

The titanomagnetite of the Lac Doré Complex, an Archean layered intrusion that is located in the Abitibi greenstone belt in Québec (Canada), contains a wide variety of exsolution textures, which are the remnants of a complex cooling history. In the present study, we reconstitute the decomposition stages of the original solid solution in order to explain the formation of ilmenite, Al-spinel (hercynite and gahnite), and corundum exsolutions in magnetite. This was conducted through a detailed mineralogical and textural examination and in situ determination of mineral chemistry. Our investigation reveals two discrete types of ilmenite exsolutions, which are ascribed, respectively, to the oxidation of ulvöspinel at temperatures above and below the magnetite-ulvöspinel solvus. Exsolutions of Al-spinel result from either a decrease in the solubility of the (FeZn)Al2O4 components upon cooling, or local excesses of Al and Zn due to the removal of ulvöspinel during the early oxidation. The origin of corundum is ascribed to the oxidation of pre-existing hercynite exsolutions. The trace element composition of the titanomagnetite indicates stratigraphic reversals in Cr, Mg, Co, Ti, and Si and important changes in redox conditions. We interpret this as a direct consequence of a major event of magma chamber replenishment, which strongly influenced the distribution of exsolutions.
Mineralogical Study of the Advanced Argillic Alteration Zone at the Konos Hill Mo–Cu–Re–Au Porphyry Prospect, NE Greece
Authors: Mavrogonatos Constantinos , Voudouris Panagiotis , Spry Paul G. , Melfos Vasilios , Klemme Stephan , Berndt Jasper , Baker Tim , Moritz Robert , Bissig Thomas , Monecke Thomas , Zaccarini Federica
Published: October 2018

The Konos Hill prospect in NE Greece represents a telescoped Mo–Cu–Re–Au porphyry occurrence overprinted by deep-level high-sulfidation mineralization. Porphyry-style mineralization is exposed in the deeper parts of the system and comprises quartz stockwork veins hosted in subvolcanic intrusions of granodioritic composition. Ore minerals include pyrite, molybdenite, chalcopyrite, and rheniite. In the upper part of the system, intense hydrothermal alteration resulted in the formation of a silicified zone and the development of various advanced argillic alteration assemblages, which are spatially related to N–S, NNW–SSE, and E–W trending faults. More distal and downwards, advanced argillic alteration gradually evolves into phyllic assemblages dominated by quartz and sericite. Zunyite, along with various amounts of quartz, alunite, aluminum phosphate–sulfate minerals (APS), diaspore, kaolinite, and minor pyrophyllite, are the main minerals in the advanced argillic alteration. Mineral-chemical analyses reveal significant variance in the SiO2, F, and Cl content of zunyite. Alunite supergroup minerals display a wide compositional range corresponding to members of the alunite, beudantite, and plumbogummite subgroups. Diaspore displays an almost stoichiometric composition. Mineralization in the lithocap consists of pyrite, enargite, tetrahedrite/tennantite, and colusite. Bulk ore analyses of mineralized samples show a relative enrichment in elements such as Se, Mo, and Bi, which supports a genetic link between the studied lithocap and the underlying Konos Hill porphyry-style mineralization. The occurrence of advanced argillic alteration assemblages along the N–S, NNW–SSE, and E–W trending faults suggests that highly acidic hydrothermal fluids were ascending into the lithocap environment. Zunyite, along with diaspore, pyrophyllite, and Sr- and Rare Earth Elements-bearing APS minerals, mark the proximity of the hypogene advanced argillic alteration zone to the porphyry environment.
Current Therapies Focused on High-Density Lipoproteins Associated with Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Estrada-Luna Diego , Ortiz-Rodriguez María Araceli , Medina-Briseño Lizett , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , Izquierdo-Vega Jeannett Alejandra , Sharma Ashutosh , Cancino-Díaz Juan Carlos , Pérez-Méndez Oscar , Belefant-Miller Helen , Betanzos-Cabrera Gabriel
Published: October 2018

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) comprise a heterogeneous family of lipoprotein particles divided into subclasses that are determined by density, size and surface charge as well as protein composition. Epidemiological studies have suggested an inverse correlation between High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and the risk of cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis. HDLs promote reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and have several atheroprotective functions such as anti-inflammation, anti-thrombosis, and anti-oxidation. HDLs are considered to be atheroprotective because they are associated in serum with paraoxonases (PONs) which protect HDL from oxidation. Polyphenol consumption reduces the risk of chronic diseases in humans. Polyphenols increase the binding of HDL to PON1, increasing the catalytic activity of PON1. This review summarizes the evidence currently available regarding pharmacological and alternative treatments aimed at improving the functionality of HDL-C. Information on the effectiveness of the treatments has contributed to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate plasma levels of HDL-C, thereby promoting the development of more effective treatment of cardiovascular diseases. For that purpose, Scopus and Medline databases were searched to identify the publications investigating the impact of current therapies focused on high-density lipoproteins.
The Two Isoforms of Lyn Display Different Intramolecular Fuzzy Complexes with the SH3 Domain
Authors: Teixeira João M. C. , Fuentes Héctor , Bielskutė Stasė , Gairi Margarida , Żerko Szymon , Koźmiński Wiktor , Pons Miquel
Published: October 2018

The function of the intrinsically disordered Unique domain of the Src family of tyrosine kinases (SFK), where the largest differences between family members are concentrated, remains poorly understood. Recent studies in c-Src have demonstrated that the Unique region forms transient interactions, described as an intramolecular fuzzy complex, with the SH3 domain and suggested that similar complexes could be formed by other SFKs. Src and Lyn are members of a distinct subfamily of SFKs. Lyn is a key player in the immunologic response and exists in two isoforms originating from alternative splicing in the Unique domain. We have used NMR to compare the intramolecular interactions in the two isoforms and found that the alternatively spliced segment interacts specifically with the so-called RT-loop in the SH3 domain and that this interaction is abolished when a polyproline ligand binds to the SH3 domain. These results support the generality of the fuzzy complex formation in distinct subfamilies of SFKs and its physiological role, as the naturally occurring alternative splicing modulates the interactions in this complex.
Tirucallane Triterpenoids from the Stems and Stem Bark of Cornus walteri that Control Adipocyte and Osteoblast Differentiations
Authors: Lee Seoung Rak , Choi Eunyong , Jeon Se Hun , Zhi Xue Yan , Yu Jae Sik , Kim Seon-Hee , Lee Jeongmi , Park Ki-Moon , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: October 2018

Cornus walteri Wanger (Cornaceae) has been broadly used in traditional East Asian medicine for the treatment of various disorders, including skin inflammation and diarrhea. As part of our efforts to identify structurally and/or biologically new compounds from Korean medicinal plants, we have explored potentially new bioactive constituents from C. walteri. In the present study, seven triterpenoids (1–7) were isolated from C. walteri stems and stem bark. Compounds 1–3 were new tirucallane triterpenoids (cornusalterins N-P) and compounds 4–7 were isolated for the first time from C. walteri. The structures of the new compounds were determined based on 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data interpretations and HR-ESIMS, as well as a computational method coupled with a statistical procedure (DP4+). The regulatory effects of the isolated triterpenoids (1–7) on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation to adipocytes and osteoblasts were examined in the C3H10T1/2 cell line. Although these compounds had little effect on MSC differentiation to osteoblasts, lipid droplet formation in adipocyte-differentiated MSCs decreased in the presence of the seven triterpenoids. Compounds 1 and 4 each had a relatively distinct correlation between dose and efficacy, showing adipogenesis suppression at higher concentrations. Our findings demonstrate that the active compounds 1 and 4 can exert beneficial effects in regulation of adipocyte differentiation.
Cytotoxic Effects of Pinnatane A Extracted from Walsura pinnata (Meliaceae) on Human Liver Cancer Cells
Authors: Zakaria Nurhisyam , Mahdzir Mohamad Azrul , Yusoff Mahfuzah , Mohd Arshad Norhafiza , Awang Khalijah , Nagoor Noor Hasima
Published: October 2018

Background: Pinnatane A from the bark of Walsura pinnata was investigated for its anti-cancer properties by analyzing the cytotoxic activities and cell cycle arrest mechanism induced in two different liver cancer cell lines. Methods: A 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to analyze the pinnatane A selectivity in inducing cell death in cancer and normal cells. Various biological assays were carried out to analyze the anti-cancer properties of pinnatane A, such as a live/dead assay for cell death microscopic visualization, cell cycle analysis using propidium iodide (PI) to identify the cell cycle arrest phase, annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (annexin V-FITC)/PI flow cytometry assay to measure percentage of cell populations at different stages of apoptosis and necrosis, and DNA fragmentation assay to verify the late stage of apoptosis. Results: The MTT assay identified pinnatane A prominent dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity effects in Hep3B and HepG2 cells, with minimal effect on normal cells. The live/dead assay showed significant cell death, while cell cycle analysis showed arrest at the G0/G1 phase in both cell lines. Annexin V-FITC/PI flow cytometry and DNA fragmentation assays identified apoptotic cell death in Hep3B and necrotic cell death in HepG2 cell lines. Conclusions: Pinnatane A has the potential for further development as a chemotherapeutic agent prominently against human liver cells.
Phytochemical and Analytical Characterization of Novel Sulfated Coumarins in the Marine Green Macroalga Dasycladus vermicularis (Scopoli) Krasser
Authors: Hartmann Anja , Ganzera Markus , Karsten Ulf , Skhirtladze Alexsander , Stuppner Hermann
Published: October 2018

The siphonous green algae form a morphologically diverse group of marine macroalgae which include two sister orders (Bryopsidales and Dasycladales) which share a unique feature among other green algae as they are able to form large, differentiated thalli comprising of a single, giant tubular cell. Upon cell damage a cascade of protective mechanisms have evolved including the extrusion of sulfated metabolites which are involved in the formation of a rapid wound plug. In this study, we investigated the composition of sulfated metabolites in Dasycladus vermicularis (Dasycladales) which resulted in the isolation of two phenolic acids and four coumarins including two novel structures elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) as 5,8′-di-(6(6′),7(7′)-tetrahydroxy-3-sulfoxy-3′-sulfoxycoumarin), a novel coumarin called dasycladin A and 7-hydroxycoumarin-3,6-disulfate, which was named dasycladin B. In addition, an analytical assay for the chromatographic quantification of those compounds was developed and performed on a reversed phase C-18 column. Method validation confirmed that the new assay shows good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9986), precision (intra-day R.S.D ≤ 3.71%, inter-day R.S.D ≤ 7.49%), and accuracy (recovery rates ranged from 104.06 to 97.45%). The analysis of several samples of Dasycladus vermicularis from different collection sites, water depths and seasons revealed differences in the coumarin contents, ranging between 0.26 to 1.61%.
[O-methyl-11C]N-(4-(4-(3-Chloro-2-methoxyphenyl)-piperazin-1-yl)butyl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide ([11C]BAK4-51) Is an Efflux Transporter Substrate and Ineffective for PET Imaging of Brain D3 Receptors in Rodents and Monkey
Authors: Liow Jeih-San , Morse Cheryl L. , Lu Shuiyu , Frankland Michael , Tye George L. , Zoghbi Sami S. , Gladding Robert L. , Shaik Anver B. , Innis Robert B. , Newman Amy H. , Pike Victor W.
Published: October 2018

Selective high-affinity antagonists for the dopamine D3 receptor (D3R) are sought for treating substance use disorders. Positron emission tomography (PET) with an effective D3R radioligand could be a useful tool for the development of such therapeutics by elucidating pharmacological specificity and target engagement in vivo. Currently, a D3R-selective radioligand does not exist. The D3R ligand, N-(4-(4-(3-chloro-2-methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide (BAK4-51, 1), has attractive properties for PET radioligand development, including full antagonist activity, very high D3R affinity, D3R selectivity, and moderate lipophilicity. We labeled 1 with the positron-emitter carbon-11 (t1/2 = 20.4 min) in the methoxy group for evaluation as a radioligand in animals with PET. However, [11C]1 was found to be an avid substrate for brain efflux transporters and lacked D3R-specific signal in rodent and monkey brain in vivo.
Metalloporphyrin Dimers Bridged by a Peptoid Helix: Host-Guest Interaction and Chiral Recognition
Authors: Lee Yen Jea , Kang Boyeong , Seo Jiwon
Published: October 2018

Co-facial porphyrins have been designed to construct porphyrin tweezers with versatile molecular recognition capabilities. In this study, we synthesized metalloporphyrin–peptoid conjugates (MPPCs) displaying two metalloporphyrins on a peptoid scaffold with either achiral unfolded (1) or helical (2 and 3) secondary structures. Host–guest complexation of MPPCs was realized with various guests of different lengths and basicities, and the extent of complexation was measured by UV-vis and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopic titration. Intermolecular and intramolecular chirality induction were observed on achiral and chiral peptoid backbones, respectively. Spectroscopic data indicated that a broad scope of achiral guests can be recognized by chiral 2; in particular, longer and more flexible guests were seen to bind more tightly on 2. In addition, chiral 2 provided a distinct CD couplet with dl-, d-, or l-Lys-OMe, which was a result of the diastereomeric host–guest complex formation. Our results indicated that MPPCs can recognize, contrast, and analyze various achiral, chiral, or racemic molecules. Based on co-facial metalloporphyrins present on peptoid scaffolds, we developed a novel class of porphyrin tweezers, which can be further utilized in asymmetric catalysis, molecular sensing, and drug delivery.
Stability Analysis of Anthocyanins Using Alcoholic Extracts from Black Carrot (Daucus Carota ssp. Sativus Var. Atrorubens Alef.)
Authors: Espinosa-Acosta Guillermo , Ramos-Jacques Ana L. , Molina Gustavo A. , Maya-Cornejo Jose , Esparza Rodrigo , Hernandez-Martinez Angel R. , Sánchez-González Itari , Estevez Miriam
Published: October 2018

Anthocyanins are used for food coloring due their low toxicity and health benefits. They are extracted from different sources, but black carrot has higher anthocyanin content compared with common fruits and vegetables. Here, we study alcoholic anthocyanin extracts from black carrot to enhance their stability. The objective of our research is to determine if microencapsulation with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) is a feasible option for preventing black carrot anthocyanin degradation. Extraction solvents were solutions of (1) ethanol/acetic acid and (2) ethanol/citric acid. Samples were purified through a resin column and microencapsulated using TEOS. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of samples were obtained, and degradation studies were performed under different conditions of UV radiation, pH and temperature. Antioxidant activity was evaluated with radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging and electrochemical cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC). Color evaluation on food models were performed with CIE Lab at the beginning of experiments and after 25 days of storage. Results indicate that the more stable extracts against pH media changes are samples obtained with ethanol/acetic acid solution as extraction solvent. Extract purification through resin and TEOS microencapsulation had no significant effect on extract stability. In conclusion, although TEOS microencapsulation has proven to be effective for some dried materials from natural extracts in our previous research, we do not recommend its use for black carrot extracts considering our results in this particular case.
DNA Extraction with DNAzol and LAMP, Performed in a Heating Block as a Simple Procedure for Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Sputum Specimens
Authors: Rodríguez-García Álvaro , Mares Rosa E. , Muñoz Patricia L. A. , Meléndez-López Samuel G. , Licea-Navarro Alexei F. , Ramos Marco A.
Published: October 2018

Tuberculosis (TB) remains as a major public health issue in developing countries. Accurate detection is essential for the proper management of patients with active disease. Here, we present a simple DNAzol-LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) procedure for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum specimens. Twenty smear-positive sputum samples were analyzed as follows: (i) Genetic material was extracted by a standard DNAzol protocol, and (ii) mycobacterial DNA was detected by a typical TB-specific loop-mediated isothermal amplification method. Results and diagnostic test performance attests to the suitability of the proposed procedure.
Participatory Prototyping to Inform the Development of a Remote UX Design System in the Automotive Domain
Authors: Tasoudis Stavros , Perry Mark
Published: October 2018

This study reports on the empirical findings of participatory design workshops for the development of a supportive automotive user experience design system. Identifying and addressing this area with traditional research methods is problematic due to the different user experience (UX) design perspectives that might conflict and the related limitations of the automotive domain. To help resolve this problem, we conducted research with 12 user experience (UX) designers through individual participatory prototyping activities to gain insights into their explicit, observable, tacit and latent needs. These activities allowed us to explore their motivation to use different technologies; the system’s architecture; detailed features of interactivity; and to describe user needs including efficiency, effectiveness, engagement, naturalness, ease of use, information retrieval, self-image awareness, politeness, and flexibility. Our analysis led us to design implications that translate participants’ needs into UX design goals, informing practitioners on how to develop relevant systems further.
Liquid Crystal Enabled Dynamic Nanodevices
Authors: Ma Zhenhe , Meng Xianghe , Liu Xiaodi , Si Guangyuan , Liu Yan Jun
Published: October 2018

Inspired by the anisotropic molecular shape and tunable alignment of liquid crystals (LCs), investigations on hybrid nanodevices which combine LCs with plasmonic metasurfaces have received great attention recently. Since LCs possess unique electro-optical properties, developing novel dynamic optical components by incorporating nematic LCs with nanostructures offers a variety of practical applications. Owing to the large birefringence of LCs, the optical properties of metamaterials can be electrically or optically modulated over a wide range. In this review article, we show different elegant designs of metasurface based nanodevices integrated into LCs and explore the tuning factors of transmittance/extinction/scattering spectra. Moreover, we review and classify substantial tunable devices enabled by LC-plasmonic interactions. These dynamically tunable optoelectronic nanodevices and components are of extreme importance, since they can enable a significant range of applications, including ultra-fast switching, modulating, sensing, imaging, and waveguiding. By integrating LCs with two dimensional metasurfaces, one can manipulate electromagnetic waves at the nanoscale with dramatically reduced sizes. Owing to their special electro-optical properties, recent efforts have demonstrated that more accurate manipulation of LC-displays can be engineered by precisely controlling the alignment of LCs inside small channels. In particular, device performance can be significantly improved by optimizing geometries and the surrounding environmental parameters.
Food Perceptions and Dietary Changes for Chronic Condition Management in Rural Peru: Insights for Health Promotion
Authors: Perez-Leon Silvana , Pesantes M. Amalia , Aya Pastrana Nathaly , Raman Shivani , Miranda Jaime , Suggs L. Suzanne
Published: October 2018

Peru is undergoing a nutrition transition and, at the country level, it faces a double burden of disease where several different conditions require dietary changes to maintain a healthy life and prevent complications. Through semistructured interviews in rural Peru with people affected by three infectious and noninfectious chronic conditions (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and neurocysticercosis), their relatives, and focus group discussions with community members, we analyzed their perspectives on the value of food and the challenges of dietary changes due to medical diagnosis. The findings show the various ways in which people from rural northern Peru conceptualize good (buena alimentación) and bad (mala alimentación) food, and that food choices are based on life-long learning, experience, exposure, and availability. In the context of poverty, required changes are not only related to what people recognize as healthy food, such as fruits and vegetables, but also of work, family, trust, taste, as well as affordability and accessibility of foods. In this paper we discuss the complexity of introducing dietary changes in poor rural communities whose perspectives on food are poorly understood and rarely taken into consideration by health professionals when promoting behavior change.
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare the Effect of Peanuts and Almonds on the Cardio-Metabolic and Inflammatory Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hou Yun-Ying , Ojo Omorogieva , Wang Li-Li , Wang Qi , Jiang Qing , Shao Xin-Yu , Wang Xiao-Hua
Published: October 2018

A low carbohydrate diet (LCD), with some staple food being replaced with nuts, has been shown to reduce weight, improve blood glucose, and regulate blood lipid in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These nuts include tree nuts and ground nuts. Tree nut consumption is associated with improved cardio-vascular and inflammatory parameters. However, the consumption of tree nuts is difficult to promote in patients with diabetes because of their high cost. As the main ground nut, peanuts contain a large number of beneficial nutrients, are widely planted, and are affordable for most patients. However, whether peanuts and tree nuts in combination with LCD have similar benefits in patients with T2DM remains unknown; although almonds are the most consumed and studied tree nut. This study sought to compare the effect of peanuts and almonds, incorporated into a LCD, on cardio-metabolic and inflammatory measures in patients with T2DM. Of the 32 T2DM patients that were recruited, 17 were randomly allocated to the Peanut group (n = 17) and 15 to the Almond group (n = 15) in a parallel design. The patients consumed a LCD with part of the starchy staple food being replaced with peanuts (Peanut group) or almonds (Almond group). The follow-up duration was three months. The indicators for glycemic control, other cardio-metabolic, and inflammatory parameters were collected and compared between the two groups. Twenty-five patients completed the study. There were no significant differences in the self-reported dietary compliance between the two groups. Compared with the baseline, the fasting blood glucose (FBG) and postprandial 2-h blood glucose (PPG) decreased in both the Peanut and Almond groups (p < 0.05). After the intervention, no statistically significant differences were found between the Peanut group and the Almond group with respect to the FBG and PPG levels. A decrease in the glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level from the baseline in the Almond group was found (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups with respect to the HbA1c level at the third month. The peanut and almond consumption did not increase the body mass index (BMI) and had no effect on the blood lipid profile or interleukin-6 (IL-6).In conclusion, incorporated into a LCD, almonds and peanuts have a similar effect on improving fasting and postprandial blood glucose among patients with T2DM. However, more studies are required to fully establish the effect of almond on the improvement of HbA1c.
Multilevel Structural Equation Modeling of Students’ Dietary Intentions/Behaviors, BMI, and the Healthfulness of Convenience Stores
Authors: Horacek Tanya , Dede Yildirim Elif , Kattelmann Kendra , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol , Brown Onikia , Colby Sarah , Greene Geoffrey , Hoerr Sharon , Kidd Tandalayo , Koenings Mallory , Morrell Jesse , Olfert Melissa D. , Phillips Beatrice , Shelnutt Karla , White Adrienne
Published: October 2018

Background: When dietary behaviors are habitual, intentions are low, and environmental cues, such as the consumer food environment, might guide behavior. How might intentions to eat healthily and ultimately actual dietary behaviors, be influenced by the consumer food environment (including the availability and affordability of healthy foods) in convenience stores? This study will determine pathways between the healthfulness of convenience stores and college students’ dietary intentions/behaviors, and body mass index (BMI). Methods: Through multilevel structural equation modeling, a comparison was made of students’ healthful meal intentions (HMI); intake (fruits/vegetables, %kcal/fat, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and whole-grains); and measured BMI; as well as the healthfulness of convenience stores (fruits/vegetables availability/quality, healthy food availability/affordability). Data was collected on 1401 students and 41 convenience stores across 13 US college campuses. Results: Controlling for gender, HMI was negatively associated with SSBs (β = −0.859) and %kcal/fat (β = −1.057) and positively with whole-grains (β = 0.186) and fruits/vegetables intake (β = 0.267); %Kcal/fat was positively (β = 0.098) and fruits/vegetables intake (β = −0.055) negatively associated with BMI. Campus level, fruits/vegetables availability were positively associated to HMI (β = 0.214, β = 0.129) and directly/negatively to BMI (β = −2.657, β = −1.124). Conclusions: HMI modifies dietary behaviors, with energy from fat and fruit/vegetable intake the most predictive of weight. Availability of fruit/vegetables in convenience stores make it easier for young adults to eat well.
Cafeteria Diet Feeding in Young Rats Leads to Hepatic Steatosis and Increased Gluconeogenesis under Fatty Acids and Glucagon Influence
Authors: Maeda Júnior Antonio Sueiti , Constantin Jorgete , Utsunomiya Karina Sayuri , Gilglioni Eduardo Hideo , Gasparin Fabiana Rodrigues Silva , Carreño Fernando Olinto , De Moraes Solange Marta Franzói , Rocha Márcio , Natali Maria Raquel Marçal , Ghizoni Cristiane Vizioli de Castro , Bracht Adelar , Ishii-Iwamoto Emy Luiza , Constantin Rodrigo Polimeni
Published: October 2018

Gluconeogenesis overstimulation due to hepatic insulin resistance is the best-known mechanism behind elevated glycemia in obese subjects with hepatic steatosis. This suggests that glucose production in fatty livers may differ from that of healthy livers, also in response to other gluconeogenic determinant factors, such as the type of substrate and modulators. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of these factors on hepatic gluconeogenesis in cafeteria diet-induced obese adult rats submitted to a cafeteria diet at a young age. The livers of the cafeteria group exhibited higher gluconeogenesis rates when glycerol was the substrate, but lower rates were found when lactate and pyruvate were the substrates. Stearate or glucagon caused higher stimulations in gluconeogenesis in cafeteria group livers, irrespective of the gluconeogenic substrates. An increased mitochondrial NADH/NAD+ ratio and a reduced rate of 14CO2 production from [14C] fatty acids suggested restriction of the citric acid cycle. The higher glycogen and lipid levels were possibly the cause for the reduced cellular and vascular spaces found in cafeteria group livers, likely contributing to oxygen consumption restriction. In conclusion, specific substrates and gluconeogenic modulators contribute to a higher stimulation of gluconeogenesis in livers from the cafeteria group.