bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Escravismo, capitalismo e arqueologia: transição e conexão entre dois mundos (Brasil, séc. XIX/XX)
Authors: Guimarães Carlos Magno , Morais Camila Fernandes de , Ladeia Anna Luiza
Published: April 2018

Utilizando dados de natureza documental e arqueológica, desenvolvemos neste trabalho algumas reflexões sobre a sociedade escravista brasileira no período que compreende as últimas décadas do século XIX e as primeiras do século XX, quando se processou a transição do Escravismo para o Capitalismo. Outro aspecto considerado é a conexão estabelecida entre a realidade escravista da cafeicultura brasleira e a realidade capitalista europeia e americana. A área enfoaca é o vale do Rio Paraíba do Sul, na região que separa os estados de Minas Gerais e Rio de Janeiro e onde se desenvolveu grande parte do denominado "Ciclo do Café", ao longo do período acima delimitado. É importane lembrar a continuidade histórica, que teve início no nordeste açucareiro, passou pelas Minas e atingiu o sudeste cafeicultor. Essa continuidade dependeu do escravismo como um de seus elementos centrais, tendo implicado deslocamentos populacionais entre as regiões em diferentes momentos.
Arqueologia vai à feira: para uma etnoarqueologia da paisagem com perspectivas simétricas
Authors: Melquíades Vinicius
Published: April 2018

Dentro das perspectivas da arqueologia simétrica pretende-se abordar questões ligadas às relações de um coletivo (feira-livre) com os diferentes seres (humanos e não humanos) no decorrer de sua história de vida. Ao trabalhar com uma etnoarqueologia com foco na espacialidade torna-se imprescindível considerar esses diferentes agentes, assumindo uma postura necessariamente multivocal e colaborativa. Culmia, assim com apontamentos sobre a história de vida de um lugar e paisagem, e uma reflexão sobre como uma Etnoarqueologia da paisagem com perspectivas simétricas pode contribuir para os debates sobre paisagem, espaço e lugar tal como vem sendo colocados pela Arqueologia contemporânea;
Arqueología del cuerpo morto
Authors: Perosino María Celeste
Published: April 2018

El artículo ofrece una lectura del cuerpo (y su interface, la indumentaria) en contextos de arqueología forense aplicada a la búsqueda e identificación de aquéllas/os que fueron desaparecidas/os durante la última dictadura cívicomilitar en Argentina (1976-1983). El cuerpo desaparecido se presenta como el epicentro de la represión pero también de la reparación. El caso a partir del cual se despliega el trabajo reflexivo será el del Cementerio Municipal de San Martín (conurbano bonaerense), donde tuvieron lugar las primeras exhumaciones no científicas; tarea que generó la mezcla de los cuerpos, ya esqueletizados, y la pérdida de evidencia. Estos conjuntos óseos, creados mediante una acción que, intencional o no, completa la tarea represiva al destruir la integridad de los cuerpos muertos desaparecidos, permitirá pensar y discutir los pares cuerpo/cadáver, identidad/integridad.
Aguas van: casas, cuerpos y modernidad en la Bogotá republicana
Authors: Ammann Felipe Gaitán , Arenas Jimena Lobo Guerrero
Published: April 2018

Sobre la base de aproximaciones teóricas surgidas recientemente dentro delcampo de la antropología y arqueología del cuerpo, este artículo propone unamirada biográfica sobre el pasado republicano de una casona situada en el centro histórico de la ciudad de Bogotá. Demostraremos cómo, conforme nuevas prácticas de higiene y sanidad se introdujeron en el habitus de los sectores dominantes de la sociedad local, la alta burguesía de la ciudad incurrió en la modernización de sus espacios privados; en tanto que, a nivel municipal, la ausencia de medidas destinadas a garantizar la salud pública constituyó una norma fuertemente arraigada en el pasado colonial. En particular, este artículo presenta evidencias tanto históricas como arqueológicas que describen la manera en que el manejo de las fuentes hídricas en el interior de los espacios domésticos constituyó un factor central dentro del proceso de modernización de la capital colombiana, a la vez que nos permite acercarnos a dicho proceso en términos de una arqueología íntima y encarnada.
Regiospecific Synthesis of Three Quercetin O-β-Glucosides of N-Acetylglucosamine
Authors: Cao Zhiling , Chen Jing , Zhu Dandan , Yang Zongnan , Teng Wenqi , Liu Gaofeng , Liu Bing , Tao Chuanzhou
Published: April 2018

The regiospecific synthesis of three quercetin O-β-glucosides of N-acetylglucosamine has been achieved in good yield. Selective di-and tri- O-benzylation of quercetin followed by O-glycosylation with 2-acetamido-3,4,6-tri- O-acetyl-2-deoxy-α-D-glucopyranosyl chloride under phase-transfer catalysis conditions yielded, after deacetylation and debenzylation, 3-, 3′- and 4′-glycosylated quercetin.
A Highly Selective Fluorescent Probe for Zn2+ Based on a Rhodamine-6G dye Derivative Modified by a Furan Unit
Authors: Qiao Rui , Xiong Wen-Zhang , Bai Cui-Bing , Zhang Lin , Zhu Meng-Meng , Chen Shui-Sheng , Miao Hui
Published: April 2018

A fluorescent probe for Zn2+ based on rhodamine-6G has been synthesised. It showed excellent fluorescent specific selectivity and high sensitivity for Zn2+ compared with other metal ions, such as Fe3+, Cr3+, Hg2+, Ag+, Ca2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+ and Mg2+, in CH3CN–phosphate buffer saline solution. The distinct colour change and the rapid emergence of fluorescence emission provided ‘naked-eye’ detection of Zn2+. The detection limit of the fluorescent probe towards Zn2+ was 1.78 μM. In addition, the fluorescence lifetime and fluorescence quantum yield were measured.
Veterinary Students’ Knowledge and Perceptions About Antimicrobial Stewardship and Biosecurity—A National Survey
Authors: Hardefeldt Laura , Nielsen Torben , Crabb Helen , Gilkerson James , Squires Richard , Heller Jane , Sharp Claire , Cobbold Rowland , Norris Jacqueline , Browning Glenn
Published: April 2018

A better understanding of veterinary students’ perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge about antimicrobial stewardship and biosecurity could facilitate more effective education of future veterinarians about these important issues. A multicenter cross-sectional study was performed by administering a questionnaire to veterinary students expected to graduate in 2017 or 2018 in all Australian veterinary schools. Four hundred and seventy-six of 1246 students (38%) completed the survey. Many students were unaware of the high importance of some veterinary drugs to human medicine, specifically enrofloxacin and cefovecin (59% and 47% of responses, respectively). Fewer than 10% of students would use appropriate personal protective equipment in scenarios suggestive of Q fever or psittacosis. Students expected to graduate in 2018 were more likely to select culture and susceptibility testing in companion animal cases (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.33–2.69, p < 0.001), and were more likely to appropriately avoid antimicrobials in large animal cases (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.26–2.44, p = 0.001) than those expected to graduate in 2017. However, 2018 graduates were less likely to correctly identify the importance rating of veterinary antimicrobials for human health (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.34–0.67, p < 0.001) than 2017 graduates. Students reported having a good knowledge of antimicrobial resistance, and combating resistance, but only 34% thought pharmacology teaching was adequate and only 20% said that teaching in lectures matched clinical teaching. Efforts need to be made to harmonize preclinical and clinical teaching, and greater emphasis is needed on appropriate biosecurity and antimicrobial stewardship.
A Novel Swarm Optimisation Algorithm Based on a Mixed-Distribution Model
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Feng Tinghao , Niu Qingsong , Deng Xijin
Published: April 2018

Many swarm intelligence optimisation algorithms have been inspired by the collective behaviour of natural and artificial, decentralised, self-organised systems. Swarm intelligence optimisation algorithms have unique advantages in solving certain complex problems that cannot be easily solved by traditional optimisation algorithms. Inspired by the adaptive phenomena of plants, a novel evolutionary algorithm named the bean optimisation algorithm (BOA) is proposed, which combines natural evolutionary tactics and limited random searches. It demonstrates stable behaviour in experiments and is a promising alternative to existing optimisation methods for engineering applications. A novel distribution model for BOA is built through research and study on the relevant research results of biostatistics. This model is based on a combination of the negative binomial and normal distributions, and the resulting algorithm is called NBOA. To validate NBOA, function optimisation experiments are carried out, which include ten typical benchmark functions. The results indicate that NBOA performs better than particle swarm optimisation (PSO) and BOA. We also investigate the characteristics of NBOA and conduct a contrast analysis to verify our conclusions about the relationship between its parameters and its performance.
An Uncertainty Investigation of RCM Downscaling Ratios in Nonstationary Extreme Rainfall IDF Curves
Authors: Yang Qiqi , Dai Qiang , Han Dawei , Zhu Xuehong , Zhang Shuliang
Published: April 2018

Designed for rainstorms and flooding, hydrosystems are largely based on local rainfall Intensity–Duration–Frequency (IDF) curves which include nonstationary components accounting for climate variability. IDF curves are commonly calculated using downscaling outputs from General Circulation Models (GCMs) or Regional Circulation Models (RCMs). However, the downscaling procedures used in most studies are based on one specific time scale (e.g., 1 h) and generally ignore scale-driven uncertainty. This study analyzes the uncertainties in IDF curves stemming from RCM downscaling ratios for four representative weather stations in the United Kingdom. We constructed a series of IDF curves using distribution-based scaling bias-correction technology and a statistical downscaling method to explore the scale-driven uncertainty of IDF curves. The results revealed considerable scale-induced uncertainty of IDF curves for short durations and long return periods; however, there was no clear correlation with the mean storm intensity of the IDF curves of different RCM ensemble members for each duration and return period. The scale-driven uncertainty of IDF curves, which may be propagated or enhanced through hydrometeorological applications, is critical and cannot be ignored in the hydrosystem design process; therefore, a multi-scale method to derive IDF curves must be developed.
Epilepsy and Neuromodulation—Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kwon Churl-Su , Ripa Valeria , Al-Awar Omar , Panov Fedor , Ghatan Saadi , Jetté Nathalie
Published: April 2018

Neuromodulation is a treatment strategy that is increasingly being utilized in those suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy who are not appropriate for resective surgery. The number of double-blinded RCTs demonstrating the efficacy of neurostimulation in persons with epilepsy is increasing. Although reductions in seizure frequency is common in these trials, obtaining seizure freedom is rare. Invasive neuromodulation procedures (DBS, VNS, and RNS) have been approved as therapeutic measures. However, further investigations are necessary to delineate effective targeting, minimize side effects that are related to chronic implantation and to improve the cost effectiveness of these devices. The RCTs of non-invasive modes of neuromodulation whilst showing much promise (tDCS, eTNS, rTMS), require larger powered studies as well as studies that focus at better targeting techniques. We provide a review of double-blinded randomized clinical trials that have been conducted for neuromodulation in epilepsy.
Mobility of NH3-Solvated CuII Ions in Cu-SSZ-13 and Cu-ZSM-5 NH3-SCR Catalysts: A Comparative Impedance Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Rizzotto Valentina , Chen Peirong , Simon Ulrich
Published: April 2018

The mobility of NH3-solvated Cu ions within the zeolite framework has been recently identified as a key factor for the kinetics of the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 (NH3-SCR) over Cu-zeolite catalysts at low temperatures. Here, we utilize in situ impedance spectroscopy to explore the mobility of NH3-solvated CuII ions, i.e., CuII(NH3)n, in Cu-SSZ-13 and Cu-ZSM-5 zeolites with varied Cu ion exchange levels, and observed that both the zeolite framework (CHA or MFI) and the Cu exchange level influence the high-frequency dielectric relaxation processes that are associated with the short-range (local) motion of CuII(NH3)n. Our results suggest that the local motion of CuII(NH3)n species is favored within the CHA framework due to the unique cage structure, and thereby contribute to the overall ion conductivity at high frequencies, which, on the contrary, is not observed for ZSM-5, where NH3-solvated Cu2+ ions do not experience a comparable constrained space for local motion. This study sheds new light on the mobility of Cu active sites under NH3-SCR related reaction conditions and may contribute to an advanced understanding of the underlying mechanism.
The Use of Hoechst Dyes for DNA Staining and Beyond
Authors: Bucevičius Jonas , Lukinavičius Gražvydas , Gerasimaitė Rūta
Published: April 2018

Hoechst dyes are among the most popular fluorophores used to stain DNA in living and fixed cells. Moreover, their high affinity and specificity towards DNA make Hoechst dyes excellent targeting moieties, which can be conjugated to various other molecules in order to tether them to DNA. The recent developments in the fields of microscopy and flow cytometry have sparked interest in such composite molecules, whose applications range from investigating nucleus microenvironment to drug delivery into tumours. Here we provide an overview of the properties of Hoechst dyes and discuss recent developments in Hoechst-based composite probes.
Aneuploid CTC and CEC
Authors: Lin Peter Ping
Published: April 2018

Conventional circulating tumor cell (CTC) detection technologies are restricted to large tumor cells (> white blood cells (WBCs)), or those unique carcinoma cells with double positive expression of surface epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) for isolation, and intracellular structural protein cytokeratins (CKs) for identification. With respect to detecting the full spectrum of highly heterogeneous circulating rare cells (CRCs), including CTCs and circulating endothelial cells (CECs), it is imperative to develop a strategy systematically coordinating all tri-elements of nucleic acids, biomarker proteins, and cellular morphology, to effectively enrich and comprehensively identify CRCs. Accordingly, a novel strategy integrating subtraction enrichment and immunostaining-fluorescence in situ hybridization (SE-iFISH), independent of cell size variation and free of hypotonic damage as well as anti-EpCAM perturbing, has been demonstrated to enable in situ phenotyping multi-protein expression, karyotyping chromosome aneuploidy, and detecting cytogenetic rearrangements of the ALK gene in non-hematologic CRCs. Symbolic non-synonymous single nucleotide variants (SNVs) of both the TP53 gene (P33R) in each single aneuploid CTCs, and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) tumor suppressor gene in each examined aneuploid CECs, were identified for the first time across patients with diverse carcinomas. Comprehensive co-detecting observable aneuploid CTCs and CECs by SE-iFISH, along with applicable genomic and/or proteomic single cell molecular profiling, are anticipated to facilitate elucidating how those disparate categories of aneuploid CTCs and CECs cross-talk and functionally interplay with tumor angiogenesis, therapeutic drug resistance, tumor progression, and cancer metastasis.
Symbolic Analysis of the Cycle-to-Cycle Variability of a Gasoline–Hydrogen Fueled Spark Engine Model
Authors: Reyes-Ramírez Israel , Martínez-Boggio Santiago D. , Curto-Risso Pedro L. , Medina Alejandro , Calvo Hernández Antonio , Guzmán-Vargas Lev
Published: April 2018

An study of temporal organization of the cycle-to-cycle variability (CCV) in spark ignition engines fueled with gasoline–hydrogen blends is presented. First, long time series are generated by means of a quasi-dimensional model incorporating the key chemical and physical components, leading to variability in the time evolution of energetic functions. The alterations in the combustion process, for instance the composition of reactants, may lead to quantitative changes in the time evolution of the main engine variables. It has been observed that the presence of hydrogen in the fuel mixture leads to an increased laminar flame speed, with a corresponding decrease in CCV dispersion. Here, the effects of different hydrogen concentrations in the fuel are considered. First, it is observed that return maps of heat release sequences exhibit different patterns for different hydrogen concentrations and fuel–air ratios. Second, a symbolic analysis is used to characterize time series. The symbolic method is based on the probability of occurrence of consecutive states (a word) in a symbolic sequence histogram (SSH). Modified Shannon entropy is computed in order to determine the adequate word length. Results reveal the presence of non-random patterns in the sequences and soft transitions between states. Moreover, the general behavior of CCV simulations results and three types of synthetic noises: white, log-normal, and a noisy logistic map, are compared. This analysis reveals that the non-random features observed in heat release sequences are quite different from synthetic noises.
Sensorless Direct Torque Control of Surface-Mounted Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors with Nonlinear Kalman Filtering
Authors: Park Joon B. , Wang Xin
Published: April 2018

The demand for sensorless control of surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor drives has grown rapidly. Among various sensorless control techniques developed, Matsui’s current model-based approach and the extended Kalman filter approach have gained much attention. However, the performance of these control methods can be severely worsened or may even become unstable under strong disturbances or sensing failures. This paper presents a comparative study of the extended Kalman filter, the resilient extended Kalman filter, and the unscented Kalman filter-based sensorless direct torque and flux control approaches for the surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor drives. Computer simulation studies and hardware implementation results have shown the efficiency and superior performance of the resilient extended Kalman filter and the unscented Kalman filter over the traditional extended Kalman filter for sensorless direct torque control applications.
Integrating Life Cycle Inventory and Process Design Techniques for the Early Estimate of Energy and Material Consumption Data
Authors: Righi Serena , Baioli Filippo , Dal Pozzo Alessandro , Tugnoli Alessandro
Published: April 2018

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a powerful tool to identify direct and indirect environmental burdens associated with products, processes and services. A critical phase of the LCA methodology is the collection of representative inventory data for the energy and material streams related to the production process. In the evaluation of new and emerging chemical processes, measured data are known only at laboratory scale and may have limited connection to the environmental footprint of the same process implemented at industrial scale. On the other hand, in the evaluation of processes already established at commercial scale, the availability of process data might be hampered by industrial confidentiality. In both cases, the integration of simple process design techniques in the LCA can contribute to overcome the lack of primary data, allowing a more correct quantification of the life cycle inventory. The present paper shows, through the review of case study examples, how simplified process design, modeling and simulation can support the LCA framework to provide a preliminary estimate of energy and material consumption data suitable for environmental assessment purposes. The discussed case studies illustrate the implementation of process design considerations to tackle availability issues of inventory data in different contexts. By evidencing the case-specific nature of the problem of preliminary conceptual process design, the study calls for a closer collaboration of process design experts and life cycle analysts in the green development of new products and processes.
Energy Management for Smart Multi-Energy Complementary Micro-Grid in the Presence of Demand Response
Authors: Wang Yongli , Huang Yujing , Wang Yudong , Yu Haiyang , Li Ruiwen , Song Shanshan
Published: April 2018

With the application and the rapid advancement of smart grid technology, the practical application and operation status of multi-energy complementary microgrids have been widely investigated. In the paper presented, the optimal operation of a solar unit, a storage battery and combined cooling, heating and power is studied via an economic optimization model implemented in General Algebraic Modeling Systems (GAMS). The model represents an optimization strategy for the economic operation of a microgrid considering demand response programs in different scenarios, and it is intended for the targets of minimizing the operating cost of the microgrid and maximizing the efficiency of renewable energy utilization. In addition, a multi-time electricity price response model based on user behavior and satisfaction is established, and the core value of the model is to describe the mechanism and effect of participation in electricity price demand response. In order to verify the accuracy of the model proposed, we design the dispatch strategy of a microgrid under different states considering demand response, and use genetic algorithm to solve the optimization problems. On the other hand, the application of methodology to a real case study in Suzhou demonstrates the effectiveness of this model to solve the economic dispatch of the microgrid’s renewable energy park.
Design Methods of Underwater Grounding Electrode Array by Considering Inter-Electrode Interference for Floating PVs
Authors: Bhang Byeong Gwan , Kim Gyu Gwang , Cha Hae Lim , Kim David Kwangsoon , Choi Jin Ho , Park So Young , Ahn Hyung Keun
Published: April 2018

An optimal design method is proposed in this paper to improve the safety and price competitiveness of floating photovoltaic (PV) systems. From the standards for grounding by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60364, the Electrical Equipment Technology Standards (EETS) are set up for the grounding resistance to be less than or equal to 10 Ω for high voltage (above 750 V DC) and extra high voltage (above 7000 V) systems. In order to satisfy this criterion, a parallel connection of grounding electrodes is essential in the system. Furthermore, inter-electrode interference should be considered to reflect the resistance increase due to the potential increase between electrodes. Therefore, in this study, the parallel grounding resistance according to the distance and number of electrodes, as well as the arrangement method were theoretically predicted and compared with the measured values. For the first time, the design of grounding electrodes has been applied to real floating PV systems and is expected to satisfy EETS.
U.S. Inland Pacific Northwest Wheat Farmers’ Perceived Risks: Motivating Intentions to Adapt to Climate Change?
Authors: Roesch-McNally Gabrielle E.
Published: April 2018

The Regional Approaches to Climate Change for the Pacific Northwest Agriculture (REACCH PNA) project was a USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) funded effort aimed at taking a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the implications of climate change on wheat and other cereal crop production in the inland Pacific Northwest (iPNW). As part of this project, two comprehensive surveys of wheat producers were conducted in 2012/13 and 2015/16, which included questions concerning production practices, risk perception, and attitudes towards climate change adaptation and mitigation. This paper explores farmers’ anticipated adaptive responses to climate change across five different adaptation strategies, including, cropping system, crop rotation, tillage practices, soil conservation practices, and crop insurance. This research examines whether farmers anticipate making little to no change or moderate to big changes to their production system in response to climate change and whether perceived economic and environmental risks motivate farmers’ intentions to adapt to climate change. I found that a small percentage (18–28%) of respondents intend on taking moderate to big action in response to predicted climate change, across both surveys and all five adaptation strategies. Further, high levels of perceived economic and environmental risks, associated with climate change and positive attitudes towards adaptation, are motivating intentions to adapt.
Effelsberg Monitoring of a Sample of RadioAstron Blazars: Analysis of Intra-Day Variability
Authors: Liu Jun , Bignall Hayley , Krichbaum Thomas , Liu Xiang , Kraus Alex , Kovalev Yuri , Sokolovsky Kirill , Angelakis Emmanouil , Zensus J.
Published: April 2018

We present the first results of an ongoing intra-day variability (IDV) flux density monitoring program of 107 blazars, which were selected from a sample of RadioAstron space very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) targets. The IDV observations were performed with the Effelsberg 100-m radio telescope at 4.8 GHz, focusing on the statistical properties of IDV in a relatively large sample of compact active galactic nuclei (AGN). We investigated the dependence of rapid (<3 day) variability on various source properties through a likelihood approach. We found that the IDV amplitude depends on flux density and that fainter sources vary by about a factor of 3 more than their brighter counterparts. We also found a significant difference in the variability amplitude between inverted- and flat-spectrum radio sources, with the former exhibiting stronger variations. γ -ray loud sources were found to vary by up to a factor 4 more than γ -ray quiet ones, with 4 σ significance. However a galactic latitude dependence was barely observed, which suggests that it is predominantly the intrinsic properties (e.g., angular size, core-dominance) of the blazars that determine how they scintillate, rather than the directional dependence in the interstellar medium (ISM). We showed that the uncertainty in the VLBI brightness temperatures obtained from the space VLBI data of the RadioAstron satellite can be as high as ~70% due to the presence of the rapid flux density variations. Our statistical results support the view that IDV at centimeter wavelengths is predominantly caused by interstellar scintillation (ISS) of the emission from the most compact, core-dominant region in an AGN.
Recent Advances in Targeted and Untargeted Metabolomics by NMR and MS/NMR Methods
Authors: Bingol Kerem
Published: April 2018

Metabolomics has made significant progress in multiple fronts in the last 18 months. This minireview aimed to give an overview of these advancements in the light of their contribution to targeted and untargeted metabolomics. New computational approaches have emerged to overcome the manual absolute quantitation step of metabolites in one-dimensional (1D) 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. This provides more consistency between inter-laboratory comparisons. Integration of two-dimensional (2D) NMR metabolomics databases under a unified web server allowed for very accurate identification of the metabolites that have been catalogued in these databases. For the remaining uncatalogued and unknown metabolites, new cheminformatics approaches have been developed by combining NMR and mass spectrometry (MS). These hybrid MS/NMR approaches accelerated the identification of unknowns in untargeted studies, and now they are allowing for profiling ever larger number of metabolites in application studies.
Identification of the Candidate Proteins Related to Oleic Acid Accumulation during Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Seed Development through Comparative Proteome Analysis
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Haifen , Gu Jianzhong , Deng Li , Ren Li , Hong Yanbin , Lu Qing , Chen Xiaoping , Liang Xuanqiang
Published: April 2018

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) are an important oilseed crop, containing high contents of protein and fatty acids (FA). The major components of FA found in peanut oil are unsaturated FAs, including oleic acid (OA, C18:1) and linoleic acid (LOA, C18:2). Moreover, the high content of OA in peanut oil is beneficial for human health and long-term storage due to its antioxidant activity. However, the dynamic changes in proteomics related to OA accumulation during seed development still remain largely unexplored. In the present study, a comparative proteome analysis based on iTRAQ (isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantification) was performed to identify the critical candidate factors involved in OA formation. A total of 389 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified between high-oleate cultivar Kainong176 and low-oleate cultivar Kainong70. Among these DEPs, 201 and 188 proteins were upregulated and downregulated, respectively. In addition, these DEPs were categorized into biosynthesis pathways of unsaturated FAs at the early stage during the high-oleic peanut seed development, and several DEPs involved in lipid oxidation pathway were found at the stage of seed maturation. Meanwhile, 28 DEPs were sporadically distributed in distinct stages of seed formation, and their molecular functions were directly correlated to FA biosynthesis and degradation. Fortunately, the expression of FAB2 (stearoyl-acyl carrier protein desaturase), the rate-limiting enzyme in the upstream biosynthesis process of OA, was significantly increased in the early stage and then decreased in the late stage of seed development in the high-oleate cultivar Kainong176. Furthermore, real-time PCR verified the expression pattern of FAB2 at the mRNA level, which was consistent with its protein abundance. However, opposite results were found for the low-oleate cultivar Kainong70. Overall, the comparative proteome analysis provided valuable insight into the molecular dynamics of OA accumulation during peanut seed development.
Interactions between Food Security and Land Use in the Context of Global Change
Authors: McConnell William J. , Viña Andrés
Published: April 2018

Increases in human population and per-capita consumption are putting enormous pressure on land resources. About 38% of the Earth’s land area is being used in agricultural production [1], with about half (ca. 31%) of the remaining land being under forest cover [2] and the other half being less suitable for agricultural production due to edaphic, topographic and/or climatic factors. Despite the fact that over the last three decades the world food production has doubled [3], about 1 in 9 people in the world is still undernourished [4]. This poses the global challenge of increasing food security without exacerbating serious environmental problems, such as loss of biodiversity [5], greenhouse gas emissions [6], soil degradation [7], and alteration of hydrological cycles [8], among many others. While these issues are of global relevance, we recognize that they are local in nature since their effects are felt locally, while the actions on the land are performed by local actors whose decisions are driven not only by global [9,10], but also by regional [11] and local [12] forces.
1-[1-(4-Chlorobenzenesulfonyl)-1H-indole-3-yl]-3-[4-(pyridin-2-yl)piperazin-1-yl]propan-1-one
Authors: Diethelm Benjamín , Almendras Sebastián , Recabarren-Gajardo Gonzalo
Published: April 2018

The title compound was prepared by an aza-Michael addition reaction between 1-[1-(4-chlorobenzenesulfonyl)-1H-indole-3-yl]prop-2-en-1-one and 2-piridylpiperazine catalyzed by SiO2. The structural identity of the title compound was proven by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods (IR, NMR). The compound was assayed in a binding assay at the 5-HT6 receptor, showing poor affinity.
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy in Association With Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Zuhdi Ahmad , Yaakob Zul , Sadiq Muhammad , Ismail Muhammad , Undok Abdul , Ahmad Wan
Published: April 2018

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a rare, acute, nonischemic cardiomyopathy causing transient left ventricular dysfunction, which can mimic myocardial infarction on its presentation. While many cardiac manifestations have been associated with hyperthyroidism, we report a rare case where it has precipitated takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
A Review of Evidence for a Therapeutic Application of Traditional Japanese Kampo Medicine for Oral Diseases/Disorders
Authors: Veilleux Marie-Pier , Moriyama Satomi , Yoshioka Masami , Hinode Daisuke , Grenier Daniel
Published: April 2018

Kampo medicines prescribed by specialized medical practitioners and Japanese physicians have gradually reemerged in Japan as alternatives to Western medications. Kampo formulations are composed of several plant extracts and, as such, the broad variety of phytochemicals they contain likely act synergistically to provide their beneficial effects. Kampo medicines have traditionally been prescribed for a number of health conditions, including chronic hepatitis, bronchial asthma, anemia, etc. The aim of this article is to review the beneficial effects of Kampos with respect to oral health. Pertinent papers published between 1970 and 2017 were retrieved by searching in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Scopus using key words followed by evaluation of the relevant articles. In vitro studies have identified a number of properties that give credence to the potential of Kampos for treating or preventing oral diseases/disorders. Given their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, they may be promising agents for controlling periodontal diseases, oral mucositis, xerostomia, and drug-induced gingival overgrowth. Since some oral diseases have a complex etiology that involves microbial pathogens and the host immune response, agents with dual functionality such as Kampo phytochemicals may offer a therapeutic advantage.
Formation of Bimetallic Fe/Au Submicron Particles with Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Majerič Peter , Jenko Darja , Friedrich Bernd , Rudolf Rebeka
Published: April 2018

This article studies the synthesis of bimetallic Fe/Au submicron particles with Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis (USP). The combination of Fe oxide particles’ ferromagnetism with Au nanoparticles’ (AuNPs) surface plasmon resonance has gained high interest in biomedical and various other applications. Initial investigations for producing Fe/Au particles with USP were carried out in order to study the particle formation mechanisms. Firstly, three precursor salt solutions (Fe acetate, Fe nitrate and Fe chloride) were used to produce Fe oxide particles and to study their effect on particle morphology through characterization by Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM) with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). These precursor salts produce three types of submicron particles, a mesh of primary nanoparticles, spherical particles and irregular particles, respectively. Next, different solution combinations of precursor salts of Fe and Au were used with the USP. The obtained particles were characterized, and similarities were then examined in the particle formation of pure Fe oxide and Fe/Au particles. The effects of using different salts were analyzed for the formation of favorable morphologies of Fe/Au particles. The combinations of Fe chloride/Au chloride and Fe chloride/Au nitrate in the precursor solution indicate potential in synthesizing bimetallic Fe/Au submicron particles with the USP process.
Multiple Electrohydrodynamic Effects on the Morphology and Running Behavior of Tiny Liquid Metal Motors
Authors: Sun Yue , Xu Shuo , Tan Sicong , Liu Jing
Published: April 2018

Minimized motors can harvest different types of energy and transfer them into kinetic power to carry out complex operations, such as targeted drug delivery, health care, sensing and so on. In recent years, the liquid metal motor is emerging as a very promising tiny machine. This work is dedicated to investigate the motion characteristics of self-powered liquid metal droplet machines under external electric field, after engulfing a small amount of aluminum. Two new non-dimensional parameters, named Ä and Ö , are put forward for the first time to evaluate the ratio of the forces resulting from the electric field to the fluidic viscous force and the ratio of the friction force to the fluidic viscous force. Forces exerted on liquid metal droplets, the viscosity between the droplet and the surrounding fluid, the pressure difference on both ends, the friction between the bottom of the droplet and the sink base, and bubble propulsion force are evaluated and estimated regarding whether they are impetus or resistance. Effects of electric field intensity, droplet size, solution concentration and surface roughness etc. on the morphology and running behavior of such tiny liquid metal motors are clarified in detail. This work sheds light on the moving mechanism of the liquid metal droplet in aqueous solutions, preparing for more precise and complicated control of liquid metal soft machines.
Panax Notoginseng Saponins: A Review of Its Mechanisms of Antidepressant or Anxiolytic Effects and Network Analysis on Phytochemistry and Pharmacology
Authors: Xie Weijie , Meng Xiangbao , Zhai Yadong , Zhou Ping , Ye Tianyuan , Wang Zhen , Sun Guibo , Sun Xiaobo
Published: April 2018

Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen, as traditional Chinese medicine, has a long history of high clinical value, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, inhibition of platelet aggregation, regulation of blood glucose and blood pressure, inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, and neuronal protection, and its main ingredients are Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS). Currently, Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen may improve mental function, have anti-insomnia and anti-depression effects, alleviate anxiety, and decrease neural network excitation. However, the underlying effects and the mechanisms of Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen and its containing chemical constituents (PNS) on these depression-related or anxiety-related diseases has not been completely established. This review summarized the antidepressant or anxiolytic effects and mechanisms of PNS and analyzed network targets of antidepressant or anxiolytic actions with network pharmacology tools to provide directions and references for further pharmacological studies and new ideas for clinical treatment of nervous system diseases and drug studies and development. The review showed PNS and its components may exert these effects through regulating neurotransmitter mechanism (5-HT, DA, NE), modulation of the gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission, glutamatergic system, hypo-thalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and its intracellular signaling pathways in the central nervous system; and produce neuronal protection by anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, or inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, or platelet aggregation and its intracellular signaling pathways. Network target analysis indicated PNS and its components also may have anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, which leads to the preservation of brain nerves, and regulate the activity and secretion of nerve cells, exerting anti-depression and anxiolytic effects, which may provide new directions for further in-depth researches of related mechanisms.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antinociceptive Studies of Hydroalcoholic Extract from the Leaves of Phyllanthus brasiliensis (Aubl.) Poir. and Isolation of 5-O-β-d-Glucopyranosyljusticidin B and Six Other Lignans
Authors: Borges Luziane da C. , Negrão-Neto Raimundo , Pamplona Sônia , Fernandes Luanna , Barros Mayra , Fontes-Júnior Enéas , Maia Cristiane , E Silva Consuelo Y. Yoshioka , Silva Milton Nascimento da
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition and the antiinflammatory/antinociceptive properties of the hydroalcoholic extract derived from the leaves of Phyllanthus brasiliensis (HEPB) in rodents. A new arylnaphthalene lignan glycoside, 5-O-β-d-glucopyranosyljusticidin B, together with six known lignans, were isolated from HEPB. 1D and 2D NMR experiments and HRMS were used to elucidate the structure of the new compound. HEPB toxicity and antinociceptive activity were evaluated through acute oral toxicity and formalin models in mice, respectively. The anti-inflammatory effects of HEPB were assessed using carrageenan- and dextran-induced paw edema models in rats. HEPB showed low toxicity. Oral administration of HEPB reduced paw edema induced by carrageenan, but not by dextran. HEPB and its fractions from FR6 to FR10 (FR6-10) inhibited the neurogenic and inflammatory phases of formalin-induced linking, demonstrating its antinociceptive activity. These results indicated that lignans from Phyllanthus brasiliensis exerted antinociceptive/anti-inflammatory effects not related to the histaminergic pathway.
Pectin and Pectin-Based Composite Materials: Beyond Food Texture
Authors: Lara-Espinoza Claudia , Carvajal-Millán Elizabeth , Balandrán-Quintana René , López-Franco Yolanda , Rascón-Chu Agustín
Published: April 2018

Pectins are plant cell wall natural heteropolysaccharides composed mainly of α-1-4 d-galacturonic acid units, which may or may not be methyl esterified, possesses neutral sugars branching that harbor functional moieties. Physicochemical features as pH, temperature, ions concentration, and cosolute presence, affect directly the extraction yield and gelling capacity of pectins. The chemical and structural features of this polysaccharide enables its interaction with a wide range of molecules, a property that scientists profit from to form new composite matrices for target/controlled delivery of therapeutic molecules, genes or cells. Considered a prebiotic dietary fiber, pectins meetmany regulations easily, regarding health applications within the pharmaceutical industry as a raw material and as an agent for the prevention of cancer. Thus, this review lists many emergent pectin-based composite materials which will probably palliate the impact of obesity, diabetes and heart disease, aid to forestall actual epidemics, expand the ken of food additives and food products design.
CpG Methylation Changes G-Quadruplex Structures Derived from Gene Promoters and Interaction with VEGF and SP1
Authors: Tsukakoshi Kaori , Saito Shiori , Yoshida Wataru , Goto Shinichi , Ikebukuro Kazunori
Published: April 2018

G-quadruplex (G4) is a DNA/RNA conformation that consists of two or more G-tetrads resulting from four-guanine bases connected by Hoogsteen-type hydrogen bonds, which is often found in the telomeres of chromatin, as well as in the promoter regions of genes. The function of G4 in the genomic DNA is being elucidated and some G4-protein interactions have been reported; these are believed to play a role in vital cellular functions. In this study, we focused on CpG methylation, a well-known epigenetic modification of the genomic DNA, especially found in the promoter regions. Although many G4-forming sequences within the genomic DNA harbor CpG sites, the relationship between CpG methylation and the binding properties of associated proteins remains unclear. We demonstrated that the binding ability of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) G4 DNA to VEGF165 protein was significantly decreased by CpG methylation. We identified the binding activity of G4 DNA oligonucleotides derived from gene promoter regions to SP1, a transcription factor that interacts with a G4-forming DNA and is also altered by CpG methylation. The effect of methylation on binding affinity was accompanied by changes in G4 structure and/or topology. Therefore, this study suggested that CpG methylation might be involved in protein binding to G4-forming DNA segments for purposes of transcriptional regulation.
Facile Synthesis of Flexible Methylsilsesquioxane Aerogels with Surface Modifications for Sound- Absorbance, Fast Dye Adsorption and Oil/Water Separation
Authors: Guo Xingzhong , Shan Jiaqi , Lai Zhongzhang , Lei Wei , Ding Ronghua , Zhang Yun , Yang Hui
Published: April 2018

New flexible methylsilsesquioxane (MSQ) aerogels have been facilely prepared by a sol–gel process with methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) and dimethyldimethoxysilane (DMDMS) as co-precursors, followed by surface modification and ambient pressure drying. The microstructure, mechanical properties and hydrophobicity of these MSQ aerogels after surface modifications of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) and/or hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) were investigated in detail, and the applications of surface-modified MSQ aerogels in sound-absorbance, fast dye adsorption and oil/water separation were evaluated, respectively. The MSQ aerogels surface-modified by HMDS possess flexibility, elasticity and superhydrophobicity, and demonstrate good performance in the mentioned applications. The resultant MSQ aerogel used in sound-absorbance has high frequency (about 6 kHz) acoustic absorptivity of up to 80%, benefiting from its macroporous structure and porosity of 94%, and it also possesses intermediate frequency acoustic absorptivity (about 1 kHz) up to 80% owing to its elasticity. This MSQ aerogel can selectively separate oil from oil/water mixtures with high efficiency due to its superhydrophobicity and superlipophilicity, resulting from a lot of methyl groups, density as low as 0.12 cm3·g−1 and a water contact angle as high as 157°. This MSQ aerogel can be assembled to be a monolithic column applied for fast dye adsorption, and shows selective adsorption for anionic dyes and removal efficiency of methyl orange of up to 95%.
Shape-Controlled Synthesis of Au Nanostructures Using EDTA Tetrasodium Salt and Their Photothermal Therapy Applications
Authors: Jang Youngjin , Lee Nohyun , Kim Jeong Hyun , Park Yong Il , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: April 2018

Tuning the optical properties of Au nanostructures is of paramount importance for scientific interest and has a wide variety of applications. Since the surface plasmon resonance properties of Au nanostructures can be readily adjusted by changing their shape, many approaches for preparing Au nanostructures with various shapes have been reported to date. However, complicated steps or the addition of several reagents would be required to achieve shape control of Au nanostructures. The present work describes a facile and effective shape-controlled synthesis of Au nanostructures and their photothermal therapy applications. The preparation procedure involved the reaction of HAuCl4 and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) tetrasodium salt, which acted as a reducing agent and ligand, at room temperature without the need for any toxic reagent or additives. The morphology control from spheres to branched forms and nanowire networks was easily achieved by varying the EDTA concentration. Detailed investigations revealed that the four carboxylic groups of the EDTA tetrasodium salt are essential for effective growth and stabilization. The produced Au nanowire networks exhibited a broad absorption band in the near-infrared (NIR) region, thereby showing efficient cancer therapeutic performance by inducing the selective photothermal destruction of cancerous glioblastoma cells (U87MG) under NIR irradiation.