bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Energy Efficiency of mmWave Massive MIMO by Modifying the RF Circuit Configuration
Authors: Uthansakul Peerapong , Khan Arfat Ahmad
Published: November 2019

Hybrid architectures are used in the Millimeter wave (mmWave) Massive MIMO systems, which use a smaller number of RF chains and reduces the power and energy consumption of the mmWave Massive MIMO systems. However, the majority of the hybrid architectures employs the conventional circuit configuration by connecting each of the RF chains with all the transmitting antennas at the base station. As a result, the conventional circuit configuration requires a large number of phase shifters, combiners, and low-end amplifiers. In this paper, we modify the RF circuit configuration by connecting each of the RF chains with some of the transmitting antennas of mmWave Massive MIMO. Furthermore, the hybrid analogue/digital precoders and decoders along with the overall circuit power consumptions are modelled for the modified RF circuit configuration. In addition, we propose the alternating optimization algorithm to enhance the optimal energy efficiency and compute the optimal system parameters of the mmWave Massive MIMO system. The proposed framework provides deeper insights of the optimal system parameters in terms of throughput, consumed power and the corresponding energy efficiency. Finally, the simulation results validate the proposed framework, where it can be seen that the proposed algorithm significantly reduces the power and energy consumptions, with a little compromise on the system spectral gain.
Energy Management Strategy of a PEM Fuel Cell Excavator with a Supercapacitor/Battery Hybrid Power Source
Authors: Do Tri Cuong , Truong Hoai Vu Anh , Dao Hoang Vu , Ho Cong Minh , To Xuan Dinh , Dang Tri Dung , Ahn Kyoung Kwan
Published: November 2019

Construction machines are heavy-duty equipment and a major contributor to the environmental pollution. By using only electric motors instead of an internal combustion engine, the problems of low engine efficiency and air pollution can be solved. This paper proposed a novel energy management strategy for a PEM fuel cell excavator with a supercapacitor/battery hybrid power source. The fuel cell is the main power supply for most of the excavator workload while the battery/supercapacitor is the energy storage device, which supplies additional required power and recovers energy. The whole system model was built in a co-simulation environment, which is a combination of MATLAB/Simulink and AMESim software, where the fuel cell, battery, supercapacitor model, and the energy management algorithm were developed in a Simulink environment while the excavator model was designed in an AMESim environment. In this work, the energy management strategy was designed to concurrently account for power supply performance from the hybrid power sources as well as from fuel cells, and battery lifespan. The control design was proposed to distribute the power demand optimally from the excavator to the hybrid power sources in different working conditions. The simulation results were presented to demonstrate the good performance of the system. The effectiveness of the proposed energy management strategy was validated. Compared with the conventional strategies where the task requirements cannot be achieved or system stability cannot be accomplished, the proposed algorithms perfectly satisfied the working conditions.
Evaluation of the Gas Content in Archived Shale Samples: A Carbon Isotope Study
Authors: Frantisek Buzek , Eva Gerslova , Milan Gersl , Bohuslava Cejkova , Ivana Jackova , Zdena Lnenickova
Published: November 2019

We examined 14 archived samples of shale for the chemical and 13C isotopic composition of residual gases produced as part of rock-crushing operations at a hammer mill. Results were compared with data on maturity from Rock-Eval pyrolysis and vitrinite reflectance measurements. The samples originated from three different formations (Mikulov Marls, Ostrava Formation, and Liteň Formation) located in the Czech Republic. For comparison, we examined a gas-prone shale sample from the Polish Silurian. We used changes in the chemical and isotopic composition of released gases to evaluate the isotope fractionation during gas loss and retroactively calculated the initial content of gas in the shale samples. The gas content estimates (in L of gas per ton of rock) correspond with the maturity parameters of the shales. Calculated isotope fractionation for the gas release was −3‰ for both methane and ethane. The archived samples primarily lost methane (up to 90%), with subsequent changes in the content of ethane and higher hydrocarbon levels.
Perfectly Active Teenagers. When Does Physical Exercise Help Psychological Well-Being in Adolescents?
Authors: González-Hernández Juan , Gómez-López Manuel , Pérez-Turpin José Antonio , Muñoz-Villena Antonio Jesús , Andreu-Cabrera Eliseo
Published: November 2019

In the context of physical activity and sport, perfectionism and the regular practice of physical activity are related to psychological well-being and the regulation of psychological resources necessary for adaptation to effort and satisfaction. At the same time, the most active students are also those who show greater appetites for physical education classes. The goal of this work was to identify the influence of perfectionist beliefs and the regularity of the practice of physical exercise on psychological well-being. The participants were adolescents (n = 436) aged between 14 and 19 years (M = 16.80, SD = .77). They were administered the Multidimensional Perfection Scale, the Psychological Wellbeing Scale, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQv2), and a sociodemographic questionnaire. The results showed, under a non-random and transversal design, that the participants gave important value to physical exercise because they feel both active and vigorous. Regarding perfectionism, the functional aspects of perfectionism (expectations of achievement and organization) correlated positively, while the dysfunctional aspects (fear of committing errors and external expectations) did so negatively with the importance given to physical exercise performed by adolescents; this in turn positively predicted psychological well-being. In this way, the hypothesized model contemplated the relevance of the included variables and reflected the mediation of the degree of importance given to the practice of physical exercise on perfectionist beliefs and psychological well-being. Currently, most physical activity practice proposals for adolescents focus on federated and structured environments for competition, and those that deal with recreational and health-oriented sports are far less common. Hence, "the perfect way of doing sports" for a teenager should be accompanied by cognitive schemes aimed at strengthening psychological resources that allow the regulation of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors.
Global Ambitions, Local Contexts: Alternative Ways of Knowing the World
Authors: Pfeffer Karin , Georgiadou Yola
Published: November 2019

In this Special Issue, we bring together contributions from authors in the scientific discipline Geo-Information Science who engaged with the question: How does Geo-Information Science contribute to the development of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) indicators? The editorial to the Special Issue situates the individual contributions in a broader social science debate, which critically examines the quantification of global policy goals and its effects on how we know and govern the world. We put forward concepts of ‘measuring the world’ and a brief history of the Geo-Information Science discipline, including its dominant positivist paradigm as well as scholarly debates that reflected on and shifted that paradigm. Given the global policy focus of the SDGs, we also briefly discuss policy science paradigms. We analyze the individual articles with regard to their contribution to the SDG indicator development trajectory. We also show how alternative ways of knowing and governing the world complement the dominant positivist paradigm.
MicroRNA-29a Mitigates Subacromial Bursa Fibrosis in Rotator Cuff Lesion with Shoulder Stiffness
Authors: Ko Jih-Yang , Lian Wei-Shiung , Tsai Tsai-Chen , Chen Yu-Shan , Hsieh Chin-Kuei , Kuo Chung-Wen , Wang Feng-Sheng
Published: November 2019

Rotator cuff lesion with shoulder stiffness is a major cause of shoulder pain and motionlessness. Subacromial bursa fibrosis is a prominent pathological feature of the shoulder disorder. MicroRNA-29a (miR-29a) regulates fibrosis in various tissues; however, the miR-29a action to subacromial bursa fibrosis remains elusive. Here, we reveal that subacromial synovium in patients with rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness showed severe fibrosis, hypertrophy, and hyperangiogenesis histopathology along with significant increases in fibrotic matrices collagen (COL) 1A1, 3A1, and 4A1 and inflammatory cytokines, whereas miR-29a expression was downregulated. Supraspinatus and infraspinatus tenotomy-injured shoulders in transgenic mice overexpressing miR-29a showed mild swelling, vascularization, fibrosis, and regular gait profiles as compared to severe rotator cuff damage in wild-type mice. Treatment with miR-29a precursor compromised COL3A1 production and hypervascularization in injured shoulders. In vitro, gain of miR-29a function attenuated COL3A1 expression through binding to the 3’-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of COL3A1 in inflamed tenocytes, whereas silencing miR-29a increased the matrix expression. Taken together, miR-29a loss is correlated with subacromial bursa inflammation and fibrosis in rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness. miR-29a repressed subacromial bursa fibrosis through directly targeting COL3A1 mRNA, improving rotator cuff integrity and shoulder function. Collective analysis offers a new insight into the molecular mechanism underlying rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness. This study also highlights the remedial potential of miR-29a precursor for alleviating the shoulder disorder.
First Report of Cattle Tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus in Egypt Resistant to Ivermectin
Authors: El-Ashram Saeed , Aboelhadid Shawky M. , Kamel Asmaa A. , Mahrous Lilian N. , Fahmy Magdy M.
Published: November 2019

Tick control is mainly dependent on the application of acaricides, but resistance has developed to almost all classes of acaricides, including macrolactones. Therefore, we aimed to investigate ivermectin resistance among tick populations in middle Egypt. The larval immersion test was conducted using a commercial formulation of ivermectin (1%). Different concentrations of the immersion solution (0.0000625% (625 × 10−7%), 0.000125% (125 × 10−6%), 0.0005% (5 × 10−4%), 0.001% (1 × 10−3%), 0.0025% (2.5 × 10−3%), 0.005% (5 × 10−3), and 0.01% (1 × 10−2%)) were prepared by diluting a commercial ivermectin (1%) with distilled water containing 1% (v/v) ethanol and 2% (v/v) TritonX-100. Field populations of Rhipicephalus annulatus were collected from five different localities in Beni-Suef province, Egypt. Adult engorged female ticks were collected and assessed for oviposition and egg fertility. Eggs were collected, and hatched larvae were then used in the experiment. Application of acaricides was conducted on 10-day-old larvae. There was a significant difference in the LC50 (50% lethal concentration) among the examined localities on the log dose-response plot, where, the LC50 of tick populations from two localities (Emin elaros and Aldiabia) was higher than the other localities (Alhalabia, Alkom, and Beshnna). Besides, tick populations from Emin elaros and Aldiabia showed higher LC90 values with lower slope values compared to those from Alhalabia, Alkom, and Beshnna. According to these values (LC50, LC90, and slope values), as well as a history of acaricide failure to ticks in these areas, R. annulatus developed resistance to ivermectin. This study documents the first report of field populations of R. annulatus resistant to ivermectin in Egypt.
Correction: Wang, C.; et al. Changes in Indoor Insecticide Residue Levels after Adopting an Integrated Pest Management Program to Control German Cockroach Infestations in an Apartment Building. Insects 2019, 10, 304
Authors: Wang Changlu , Eiden Amanda , Cooper Richard , Zha Chen , Wang Desen , Reilly Ed
Published: November 2019

Following the publication of our article [...]
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Aging and Cancer
Authors: Moro Loredana
Published: November 2019

Aging is a major risk factor for developing cancer, suggesting that these two events may represent two sides of the same coin. It is becoming clear that some mechanisms involved in the aging process are shared with tumorigenesis, through convergent or divergent pathways. Increasing evidence supports a role for mitochondrial dysfunction in promoting aging and in supporting tumorigenesis and cancer progression to a metastatic phenotype. Here, a summary of the current knowledge of three aspects of mitochondrial biology that link mitochondria to aging and cancer is presented. In particular, the focus is on mutations and changes in content of the mitochondrial genome, activation of mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling and the newly discovered mitochondria-telomere communication.
microRNAs Are Key Regulators in Chronic Lung Disease: Exploring the Vital Link between Disease Progression and Lung Cancer
Authors: Eapen Mathew Suji , McAlinden Kielan Darcy , Myers Stephen , Lu Wenying , Sohal Sukhwinder Singh
Published: November 2019

microRNAs (miRNAs) bind to mRNAs and inhibit their expression through post-transcriptionally regulating gene expression. Here, we elaborate upon the concise summary of the role of miRNAs in carcinogenesis with specific attention to precursor respiratory pathogenesis caused by cigarette smoke modulation of these miRNAs. We review how miRNAs are implicated in cigarette-smoke-driven mechanisms, such as epithelial to mesenchymal transition, autophagy modulation, and lung ageing, which are important in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and potential progression to lung cancer. Extracellular vesicles are key to inter-cellular communication and sharing of miRNAs. A deeper understanding of the role of miRNAs in chronic respiratory disease and their use as clinical biomarkers has great potential. Therapeutic targeting of miRNAs may significantly benefit the prevention of cancer progression.
Risk Factors and Outcomes of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in a Cohort of 6968 Pregnant Women Prospectively Recruited
Authors: Bouvier Damien , Forest Jean-Claude , Blanchon Loïc , Bujold Emmanuel , Pereira Bruno , Bernard Nathalie , Gallot Denis , Sapin Vincent , Giguère Yves
Published: November 2019

We revisited risk factors and outcomes related to the preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). A total of 7866 pregnant women were recruited during 5 years at their first prenatal visit to the perinatal clinic of the institution. We compared three groups (women without prematurity, women with spontaneous preterm labor with intact membranes (sPL with IM), women with PPROM) regarding 60 criteria about characteristics, lifestyle, medical, gynecological, obstetrical history of mothers, medication during pregnancy, events at delivery, and complications in neonates. Logistic regression analyses adjusting for potential confounding factors were used. Of the 6968 women selected, 189 (2.8%) presented a PPROM, and 225 (3.2%) an sPL with IM. The specific risk factors for PPROM were body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2 (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 2.00 (1.09–3.67)), history of PPROM (aOR: 2.75 (1.19–6.36)), nulliparity (aOR: 2.52 (1.77–3.60)), gestational diabetes (aOR: 1.87 (1.16–2.99)), and low level of education (aOR: 2.39 (1.20–4.78)). The complications associated with PPROM were abruption placentae, cesarean, APGAR 5′ <4, birth weight <2500 g, stillbirth, neonatal jaundice, and hospitalization of mother and neonates. All these complications were also associated with sPL with IM. Our study confirms some of the risk factors of PPROM and highlights a new one: gestational diabetes. Outcomes of PPROM are related to prematurity.
Targeting of the Cancer-Associated Fibroblast—T-Cell Axis in Solid Malignancies
Authors: Harryvan Tom J. , Verdegaal Els M. E. , Hardwick James C. H. , Hawinkels Lukas J. A. C. , van der Burg Sjoerd H.
Published: November 2019

The introduction of a wide range of immunotherapies in clinical practice has revolutionized the treatment of cancer in the last decade. The majority of these therapeutic modalities are centered on reinvigorating a tumor-reactive cytotoxic T-cell response. While impressive clinical successes are obtained, the majority of cancer patients still fail to show a clinical response, despite the fact that their tumors express antigens that can be recognized by the immune system. This is due to a series of other cellular actors, present in or attracted towards the tumor microenvironment, including regulatory T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). As the main cellular constituent of the tumor-associated stroma, CAFs form a heterogeneous group of cells which can drive cancer cell invasion but can also impair the migration and activation of T-cells through direct and indirect mechanisms. This singles CAFs out as an important next target for further optimization of T-cell based immunotherapies. Here, we review the recent literature on the role of CAFs in orchestrating T-cell activation and migration within the tumor microenvironment and discuss potential avenues for targeting the interactions between fibroblasts and T-cells.
Energy-Performance Scalability Analysis of a Novel Quasi-Stochastic Computing Approach
Authors: Metku Prashanthi , Seva Ramu , Choi Minsu
Published: November 2019

Stochastic computing (SC) is an emerging low-cost computation paradigm for efficient approximation. It processes data in forms of probabilities and offers excellent progressive accuracy. Since SC’s accuracy heavily depends on the stochastic bitstream length, generating acceptable approximate results while minimizing the bitstream length is one of the major challenges in SC, as energy consumption tends to linearly increase with bitstream length. To address this issue, a novel energy-performance scalable approach based on quasi-stochastic number generators is proposed and validated in this work. Compared to conventional approaches, the proposed methodology utilizes a novel algorithm to estimate the computation time based on the accuracy. The proposed methodology is tested and verified on a stochastic edge detection circuit to showcase its viability. Results prove that the proposed approach offers a 12–60% reduction in execution time and a 12–78% decrease in the energy consumption relative to the conventional counterpart. This excellent scalability between energy and performance could be potentially beneficial to certain application domains such as image processing and machine learning, where power and time-efficient approximation is desired.
Deletion of the SKO1 Gene in a hog1 Mutant Reverts Virulence in Candida albicans
Authors: Urrialde Verónica , Prieto Daniel , Hidalgo-Vico Susana , Román Elvira , Pla Jesús , Alonso-Monge Rebeca
Published: November 2019

Candida albicans displays the ability to adapt to a wide variety of environmental conditions, triggering signaling pathways and transcriptional regulation. Sko1 is a transcription factor that was previously involved in early hypoxic response, cell wall remodeling, and stress response. In the present work, the role of sko1 mutant in in vivo and ex vivo studies was explored. The sko1 mutant behaved as its parental wild type strain regarding the ability to colonize murine intestinal tract, ex vivo adhesion to murine gut epithelium, or systemic virulence. These observations suggest that Sko1 is expendable during commensalism or pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the study of the hog1 sko1 double mutant showed unexpected phenotypes. Previous researches reported that the deletion of the HOG1 gene led to avirulent C. albicans mutant cell, which was, therefore, unable to establish as a commensal in a gastrointestinal murine model. Here, we show that the deletion of sko1 in a hog1 background reverted the virulence of the hog1 mutant in a systemic infection model in Galleria mellonella larvae and slightly improved the ability to colonize the murine gut in a commensalism animal model compared to the hog1 mutant. These results indicate that Sko1 acts as a repressor of virulence related genes, concluding that Sko1 plays a relevant role during commensalism and systemic infection.
Total and Double Total Domination Number on Hexagonal Grid
Authors: Klobučar Antoaneta , Klobučar Ana
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we determine the upper and lower bound for the total domination number and exact values and the upper bound for the double-total domination number on hexagonal grid H m , n with m hexagons in a row and n hexagons in a column. Further, we explore the ratio between the total domination number and the number of vertices of H m , n when m and n tend to infinity.
Itch in Chronic Wounds: Pathophysiology, Impact, and Management
Authors: Iannone Michela , Janowska Agata , Dini Valentina , Tonini Giulia , Oranges Teresa , Romanelli Marco
Published: November 2019

Background: The aims of this review are to analyze the current literature regarding the characteristics and pathophysiological mechanisms of itch in chronic wounds, to assess the impact on quality of life and delayed-healing, to focus on the best strategies of prevention and treatment, to highlight the importance of on-going research in order to fully understand the pathophysiology, and to improve the management of target therapies. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed using MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library. We included a total of 11 articles written in English with relevant information on the pathophysiology of itch in chronic wounds and on management strategies. Results: Itch in chronic wounds was found to be correlated with xerosis, larger wound areas, necrotic tissue and amount of exudate, peripheral tissue edema, sclerosis, granulation tissue, contact dermatitis, and bacterial burden, as well as with lower quality of life. Conclusions: Although there are several aspecific pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, there appears to be no validated prevention or management strategy for itch in chronic wounds. Further studies are needed to clarify the association and pathophysiology of itch in chronic wounds, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical treatments on perilesional skin to reduce itch, to characterize multidimensional sensations of itch in chronic wounds, to identify specific cytokine and chemokine expressions that are correlated to a tailored-based approach, and to develop practical guidelines.
Levels of Trace Elements in the Aqueous Humor of Cataract Patients Measured by the Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Dolar-Szczasny Joanna , Święch Anna , Flieger Jolanta , Tatarczak-Michalewska Małgorzata , Niedzielski Przemysław , Proch Jędrzej , Majerek Dariusz , Kawka Justyna , Mackiewicz Jerzy
Published: November 2019

Trace elements play an important role in the pathogenesis of several serious ophthalmological disorders, such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, cataract, etc. This study aimed to measure alterations of chemical elements’ (67) levels in the aqueous humor of patients undergoing cataract surgery. The pilot study included 115 patients, (age 74 ± 7.27, female 64.35%, male 35.65%). The aqueous levels of elements were measured by the use of the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), quality controlled with certified standards. The classification of elements based on their concentration was achieved by hierarchical cluster analysis. This is the first screening study that quantifies over 60 elements which are present in the fluid from the anterior chamber of the eye of cataract patients. The obtained results can be suitable for understanding and identifying the causes that may play a role in the initiation and progression of lens opacity.
The Composition of Fatty Acids in Ostrich Meat Influenced by the Type of Packaging and Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Horbańczuk Olaf K. , Moczkowska Małgorzata , Marchewka Joanna , Atanasov Atanas G. , Kurek Marcin A.
Published: November 2019

Ostrich meat is a high-quality dietetic product, however, it is very sensitive to deterioration during storage. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of packaging systems on the fatty acid (FA) profiles in ostrich meat during refrigerated storage. The systems were: Vacuum packaging (VP) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) in two combinations of gases: MAP1 (40% O2/40% CO2/20% N2) and MAP2 (60% O2/30% CO2/10% N2). Samples were taken from the M. ilifibularis (IF) muscles of eight ostriches in each treatment group. The packs were stored in a refrigerator at 2 °C and analyzed at 0, 4, 8, 12 and 16 days. The packaging conditions and storage time had an impact on the concentration of bioactive compounds such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), including n-3 such as C18:3, C20:5 (EPA) and C22:6 (DHA). The least changes in composition of n-3 and the sum of PUFA were recorded in ostrich meat packaged in vacuum, followed by that packaged using MAP1 and MAP2. The sum of n-6 PUFAs decreased significantly by 2.1% for MAP2, and only by 0.7% for vacuum packaging as the experiment progressed. A significant deterioration of these compounds was observed in all package systems, especially from day 12 until day 16 of storage.
Palladium(II)-Catalyzed Efficient Synthesis of Wedelolactone and Evaluation as Potential Tyrosinase Inhibitor
Authors: Huang Huidan , Chen Jianqiu , Ren Jie , Zhang Chaofeng , Ji Fei
Published: November 2019

Tyrosinase is an enzyme widely distributed in nature, which has multiple functions, especially in the melanin biosynthesis pathway. Despite the few clinically available tyrosinase inhibitors for whitening, a great demand remains for novel compounds with low side effects in terms of potential carcinogenicity and improved clinical efficacy. A natural product, wedelolactone (WEL), with a polyhydroxyl moiety, attracted our attention as a potential tyrosinase inhibitor. Before we studied the biological activity of the natural product, a synthetic methodological research was firstly carried to obtain enough raw material. WEL could be obtained efficiently through palladium-catalyzed boronation/coupling reactions and 2,3-dicyano-5,6-dichlorobenzoquinone (DDQ)-involved oxidative deprotection/annulation reactions. Immediately after, the natural product was proven to be an efficient tyrosinase inhibitor. In conclusion, we developed a mild and efficient approach for the preparation of WEL, and the natural product was disclosed to have anti-tyrosinase activity, which could be widely used in multiple fields.
The Anti-Serotonin Effect of Parthenolide Derivatives and Standardised Extract from the Leaves of Stizolophus balsamita
Authors: Nawrot Joanna , Napierała Marta , Kaczerowska-Pietrzak Kinga , Florek Ewa , Gornowicz-Porowska Justyna , Pelant Ewa , Nowak Gerard
Published: November 2019

The presence of dominant active compounds in standardised methanol extract from the leaves of Stizolophus balsamita (S. balsamita) was examined using HPLC with a diode-array detector. The extract and three dominant parthenolide derivatives were tested with Serotonin Research ELISA for their ability to inhibit the serotonin release from platelets. The antiserotonin effect of the extract was compared with that of parthenolide, a compound with proven antiserotonin and antimigraine effects. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of natural parthenolide derivatives to inhibit serotonin release from platelets. Izospiciformin, stizolin and stizolicin were analysed along with the standardised alcohol extract of S. balsamita leaves, which also contained four other parthenolide derivatives. All the analysed substances were found to inhibit serotonin release from platelets as compared with the control sample, which had 100% of serotonin released. Izospiciformin had the most significant impact (97.98% serotonin release inhibition). The effect of the methanol extract of S. balsamita on the serotonin release inhibition was also statistically significant.
Antioxidants of Natural Plant Origins: From Sources to Food Industry Applications
Authors: Lourenço Sofia C. , Moldão-Martins Margarida , Alves Vítor D.
Published: November 2019

In recent years, great interest has been focused on using natural antioxidants in food products, due to studies indicating possible adverse effects that may be related to the consumption of synthetic antioxidants. A variety of plant materials are known to be natural sources of antioxidants, such as herbs, spices, seeds, fruits and vegetables. The interest in these natural components is not only due to their biological value, but also to their economic impact, as most of them may be extracted from food by-products and under-exploited plant species. This article provides an overview of current knowledge on natural antioxidants: their sources, extraction methods and stabilization processes. In addition, recent studies on their applications in the food industry are also addressed; namely, as preservatives in different food products and in active films for packaging purposes and edible coatings.
Constructing Controllable Logic Circuits Based on DNAzyme Activity
Authors: Yang Fengjie , Liu Yuan , Wang Bin , Zhou Changjun , Zhang Qiang
Published: November 2019

Recently, DNA molecules have been widely used to construct advanced logic devices due to their unique properties, such as a simple structure and predictable behavior. In fact, there are still many challenges in the process of building logic circuits. Among them, the scalability of the logic circuit and the elimination of the crosstalk of the cascade circuit have become the focus of research. Inspired by biological allosteric regulation, we developed a controllable molecular logic circuit strategy based on the activity of DNAzyme. The E6 DNAzyme sequence was temporarily blocked by hairpin DNA and activated under appropriate input trigger conditions. Using a substrate with ribonucleobase (rA) modification as the detection strand, a series of binary basic logic gates (YES, AND, and INHIBIT) were implemented on the computational component platform. At the same time, we demonstrate a parallel demultiplexer and two multi-level cascade circuits (YES-YES and YES-Three input AND (YES-TAND)). In addition, the leakage of the cascade process was reduced by exploring factors such as concentration and DNA structure. The proposed DNAzyme activity regulation strategy provides great potential for the expansion of logic circuits in the future.
Sensitively and Selectively Detect Biothiols by Using Fluorescence Method and Resonance Light Scattering Technique Simultaneously
Authors: Shi Yanping , Sun Chao , Gao Xiaoqi , Zhao Wei , Zhou Nan
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we designed a new quantitative and qualitive detection method for biothiols by using fluorescence method and resonance light scattering (RLS) technique. Nitrogen doped carbon quantum dots (C/N-dots) were obtained from tartaric acid and ethylenediamine by hydrothermal method, and then their morphology and optical properties were characterized by different techniques. A detection system consisting of C/N-dots and Ag+ complex was established. In this system, C/N-dots possessed the photoluminescent property and the Ag+ complex owned the RLS property, so, by combining the two luminescent properties to achieve complementary advantages, we could detect biothiols and solve the problem of distinguishing between Cys and GSH. Additionally, we optimized detecting conditions and investigated the detection mechanism of fluorescence quenching and RLS detecting. Results showed that the analytical response of fluorescence was linear in the range 0–140 μM and the detection limit (LOD) was calculated to be 6.6 μM for Cys, and the addition of GSH had no effect on fluorescence. RLS response ranges were 0–167 μM for Cys and 0–200 μM for GSH, with LOD down to 64 nM and 74 nM, respectively. Furthermore, the probe was successfully used for detecting Cys in fetal bovine serum (FBS) samples by fluorescence method, and also, by RLS technique, the content of GSH in FBS samples was detected.
In Vitro Evaluation of Chemically Analyzed Hypericum Triquetrifolium Extract Efficacy in Apoptosis Induction and Cell Cycle Arrest of the HCT-116 Colon Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Mahajna Shahinaz , Kadan Sleman , Tietel Zipora , Saad Bashar , Khasib Said , Tumeh Aziz , Ginsberg Doron , Zaid Hilal
Published: November 2019

Naturally derived drugs and plant-based products are attractive commodities that are being explored for cancer treatment. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the role of Hypericum triquetrifolium (50% ethanol: 50% water) extract (HTE) treatment on apoptosis, cell cycle modulation, and cell cycle arrest in human colon cancer cell line (HCT-116). HTE induced cell death via an apoptotic process, as assayed by an Annexin V-Cy3 assay. Exposing HCT-116 cells to 0.064, 0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 mg/mL of HTE for 24 h led to 50 ± 9%, 71.6 ± 8%, 85 ± 5%, and 96 ± 1.5% apoptotic cells, respectively. HCT-116 cells treated with 0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL HTE for 3 h resulted in 38.9 ± 1.5% and 57.2 ± 3% cleavage of caspase-3-specific substrate, respectively. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the HTE extract had no effect on mRNA levels of Apaf-1 and NOXA. Moreover, the addition of 0.125 mg/mL and 0.25 mg/mL HTE for 24 h was clearly shown to attenuate the cell cycle progression machinery in HCT-116 cells. GC/MS analysis of the extract identified 21 phytochemicals that are known as apoptosis inducers and cell cycle arrest agents. All the compounds detected are novel in H. triquetrifolium. These results suggest that HTE-induced apoptosis of human colon cells is mediated primarily through the caspase-dependent pathway. Thus, HTE appears to be a potent therapeutic agent for colon cancer treatment.
Lunasin Improves the LDL-C Lowering Efficacy of Simvastatin via Inhibiting PCSK9 Expression in Hepatocytes and ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Gu Lili , Gong Yaqin , Zhao Cheng , Wang Yue , Tian Qinghua , Lei Gaoxin , Liang Yalin , Zhao Wenfeng , Tan Shuhua
Published: November 2019

Statins are the most popular therapeutic drugs to lower plasma low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) synthesis by competitively inhibiting hydroxyl-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase and up-regulating the hepatic low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). However, the concomitant up-regulation of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) by statin attenuates its cholesterol lowering efficacy. Lunasin, a soybean derived 43-amino acid polypeptide, has been previously shown to functionally enhance LDL uptake via down-regulating PCSK9 and up-regulating LDLR in hepatocytes and mice. Herein, we investigated the LDL-C lowering efficacy of simvastatin combined with lunasin. In HepG2 cells, after co-treatment with 1 μM simvastatin and 5 μM lunasin for 24 h, the up-regulation of PCSK9 by simvastatin was effectively counteracted by lunasin via down-regulating hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF-1α), and the functional LDL uptake was additively enhanced. Additionally, after combined therapy with simvastatin and lunasin for four weeks, ApoE−/− mice had significantly lower PCSK9 and higher LDLR levels in hepatic tissues and remarkably reduced plasma concentrations of total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-C, as compared to each monotherapy. Conclusively, lunasin significantly improved the LDL-C lowering efficacy of simvastatin by counteracting simvastatin induced elevation of PCSK9 in hepatocytes and ApoE−/− mice. Simvastatin combined with lunasin could be a novel regimen for hypercholesterolemia treatment.
Application of N-Dodecyl l-Peptide to Enhance Serum Stability while Maintaining Inhibitory Effects on Myometrial Contractions Ex Vivo
Authors: Poupart Julien , Hou Xin , Chemtob Sylvain , Lubell William D.
Published: November 2019

N-Alkylation and N-acylation of the prostaglandin-F2α allosteric modulator l-PDC31 were performed to install various alkyl, PEG and isoprenoid groups onto the l-enantiomer of the peptide. Among the different bio-conjugates studied, the N-dodecyl analog reduced prostaglandin-F2α-induced mouse myometrium contractions ex vivo. Furthermore, N-dodecyl-l-PDC31 exhibited improved stability in a mouse serum assay, likely due to protection from protease degradation by the lipid chain.
“Fishing and Hunting”—Selective Immobilization of a Recombinant Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase from Fermentation Media
Authors: Sánta-Bell Evelin , Molnár Zsófia , Varga Andrea , Nagy Flóra , Hornyánszky Gábor , Paizs Csaba , Balogh-Weiser Diána , Poppe László
Published: November 2019

This article overviews the numerous immobilization methods available for various biocatalysts such as whole-cells, cell fragments, lysates or enzymes which do not require preliminary enzyme purification and introduces an advanced approach avoiding the costly and time consuming downstream processes required by immobilization of purified enzyme-based biocatalysts (such as enzyme purification by chromatographic methods and dialysis). Our approach is based on silica shell coated magnetic nanoparticles as solid carriers decorated with mixed functions having either coordinative binding ability (a metal ion complexed by a chelator anchored to the surface) or covalent bond-forming ability (an epoxide attached to the surface via a proper linker) enabling a single operation enrichment and immobilization of a recombinant phenylalanine ammonia-lyase from parsley fused to a polyhistidine affinity tag.
Some Biogenetic Considerations Regarding the Marine Natural Product (−)-Mucosin
Authors: Nolsøe Jens M. J. , Aursnes Marius , Stenstrøm Yngve H. , Hansen Trond V.
Published: November 2019

Recently, the identity of the marine hydrindane natural product (−)-mucosin was revised to the trans-fused structure 6, thereby providing a biogenetic puzzle that remains to be solved. We are now disseminating some of our insights with regard to the possible machinery delivering the established architecture. Aspects with regard to various modes of cyclization in terms of concerted versus stepwise processes are held up against the enzymatic apparatus known to be working on arachidonic acid (8). To provide a contrast to the tentative polyunsaturated fatty acid biogenesis, the structural pattern featured in (−)-mucosin (6) is compared to some marine hydrinane natural products of professed polyketide descent. Our appraisal points to a different origin and strengthens the hypothesis of a polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) as the progenitor of (−)-mucosin (6).
Ullmann Reactions of Carbon Nanotubes—Advantageous and Unexplored Functionalization toward Tunable Surface Chemistry
Authors: Kolanowska Anna , Kuziel Anna Wioleta , Jędrysiak Rafał Grzegorz , Krzywiecki Maciej , Korczeniewski Emil , Wiśniewski Marek , Terzyk Artur Piotr , Boncel Sławomir
Published: November 2019

We demonstrate Ullmann-type reactions as novel and advantageous functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) toward tunable surface chemistry. The functionalization routes comprise O-, N-, and C-arylation of chlorinated CNTs. We confirm the versatility and efficiency of the reaction allowing functionalization degrees up to 3.5 mmol g−1 by applying both various nanotube substrates, i.e., single-wall (SWCNTs) and multi-wall CNTs (MWCNTs) of various chirality, geometry, and morphology as well as diverse Ullmann-type reagents: phenol, aniline, and iodobenzene. The reactivity of nanotubes was correlatable with the nanotube diameter and morphology revealing SWCNTs as the most reactive representatives. We have determined the optimized conditions of this two-step synthetic protocol as: (1) chlorination using iodine trichloride (ICl3), and (2) Ullmann-type reaction in the presence of: copper(I) iodide (CuI), 1,10-phenanthroline as chelating agent and caesium carbonate (Cs2CO3) as base. We have analyzed functionalized CNTs using a variety of techniques, i.e., scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, comprehensive Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The analyses confirmed the purely covalent nature of those modifications at all stages. Eventually, we have proved the elaborated protocol as exceptionally tunable since it enabled us: (a) to synthesize superhydrophilic films from—the intrinsically hydrophobic—vertically aligned MWCNT arrays and (b) to produce printable highly electroconductive pastes of enhanced characteristics—as compared for non-modified and otherwise modified MWCNTs—for textronics.
Preparation of Anisotropic Aerogels with Pristine Graphene by Heat Flow and Study of Their Effects on Heat Transfer in Paraffin
Authors: Huang Jinhui , Zhang Buning , He Ming , Huang Xue , Yin Guoqiang , Cui Yingde
Published: November 2019

In this study, anisotropic graphene/graphene oxide (GO) aerogels (AGAs) were obtained by freeze-drying after direct participation of pristine graphene in the self-assembly of anisotropic gel by the heat flow method. After vacuum microwave treatment, the physical, chemical and structural characteristics of the AGAs were investigated. The results show that AGAs, in which the internal graphene sheets are parallel to the heat flow direction, are successfully prepared. After microwave treatment, the amount of oxygen and nitrogen reduces significantly and the sp2 domain increases. However, at the same time, many fragments and holes are generated in the graphene sheets. The effects of AGAs on the phase transition of paraffin is studied, and the results show that the melting enthalpy, solidification enthalpy and initial melting temperature of AGA/paraffin composites decreases as the GO content in the AGAs increases, whereas the melting range, solidifying range and subcooling degree increases. The highest axial thermal conductivity of the AGA/paraffin composite is 1.45 W/(mK), and the thermal conductivity enhancement efficiency is 884% (AGA content was 0.53 vol %). Compared with previously investigated, similar AGA/paraffin composites, the aerogels fabricated in this study have the obvious advantages of a simple fabrication process, a low cost and a high thermal conductivity enhancement efficiency. These aerogels possess the potential for application in phase-change energy storage (PES), thermal energy management and other fields.
Polymer Membranes Sonocoated and Electrosprayed with Nano-Hydroxyapatite for Periodontal Tissues Regeneration
Authors: Higuchi Julia , Fortunato Giuseppino , Woźniak Bartosz , Chodara Agnieszka , Domaschke Sebastian , Męczyńska-Wielgosz Sylwia , Kruszewski Marcin , Dommann Alex , Łojkowski Witold
Published: November 2019

Diseases of periodontal tissues are a considerable clinical problem, connected with inflammatory processes and bone loss. The healing process often requires reconstruction of lost bone in the periodontal area. For that purpose, various membranes are used to prevent ingrowth of epithelium in the tissue defect and enhance bone regeneration. Currently-used membranes are mainly non-resorbable or are derived from animal tissues. Thus, there is an urgent need for non-animal-derived bioresorbable membranes with tuned resorption rates and porosity optimized for the circulation of body nutrients. We demonstrate membranes produced by the electrospinning of biodegradable polymers (PDLLA/PLGA) coated with nanohydroxyapatite (nHA). The nHA coating was made using two methods: sonocoating and electrospraying of nHA suspensions. In a simulated degradation study, for electrosprayed membranes, short-term calcium release was observed, followed by hydrolytic degradation. Sonocoating produced a well-adhering nHA layer with full coverage of the fibers. The layer slowed the polymer degradation and increased the membrane wettability. Due to gradual release of calcium ions the degradation-associated acidity of the polymer was neutralized. The sonocoated membranes exhibited good cellular metabolic activity responses against MG-63 and BJ cells. The collected results suggest their potential use in Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR) and Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) periodontal procedures.
Upgrading the Baryonic Matter at the Nuclotron Experiment at NICA for Studies of Dense Nuclear Matter
Authors: Senger Peter , Dementev Dmitrii , Heuser Johann , Kapishin Mikhail , Lavrik Evgeny , Murin Yuri , Maksymchuk Anna , Schmidt Hans Rudolf , Schmidt Christian , Senger Anna , Zinchenko Alexander
Published: November 2019

The Nuclotron at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna can deliver gold beams with kinetic energies between 2 and 4.5 A GeV. In heavy-ion collisions at these energies, it is expected that the nuclear fireball will be compressed by up to approximately four times the saturation density. This offers the opportunity to study the high-density equation-of-state (EOS) of nuclear matter in the laboratory, which is needed for our understanding of the structure of neutron stars and the dynamics of neutron star mergers. The Baryonic Matter at the Nuclotron (BM@N) experiment will be upgraded to perform multi-differential measurements of hadrons including (multi-) strange hyperons, which are promising probes of the high-density EOS, and of new phases of quantum chromodynamic (QCD) matter. The layout of the upgraded BM@N experiment and the results of feasibility studies are presented.
Chenopodium album L. and Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scop.: Phytochemical Content and In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Authors: Amodeo Valentina , Marrelli Mariangela , Pontieri Veronica , Cassano Roberta , Trombino Sonia , Conforti Filomena , Statti Giancarlo
Published: November 2019

Spontaneous edible plants have an old history of use in popular traditions all around the world, and the rediscovery of these species could also be useful for the search of new drugs. Chenopodium album L. (Amaranthaceae) and Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scop. (Brassicaceae) are two annual plants traditionally used both as food and herbal remedies against inflammatory disorders. In this work, the potential anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities of these plant species have been investigated, together with their antioxidant potential. The phytochemical composition was assessed as well by means of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). The antioxidant properties were assessed using the DPPH and β-carotene bleaching test. The ability of extracts to protect against lipid peroxidation was also examined in rat-liver microsomal membranes. All the samples showed a preservation of antioxidant activity up to 60 min. A significant inhibitory activity on the production of the pro-inflammatory mediator nitric oxide was induced in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells by the dichloromethane fraction of C. album extract, with an IC50 value equal to 81.7 ± 0.9 μg/mL. The same sample showed also a concentration-dependent anti-denaturation effect on heat-treated bovine serum albumin (IC50 = 975.6 ± 5.5 μg/mL), even if the best in vitro anti-arthritic activity was observed for the dichloromethane fraction of S. officinale extract, with an IC50 value of 680.9 ± 13.2 μg/mL.