bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Patterns and Breast Cancer Risk: A Multi-Centre Case Control Study among North Indian Women
Authors: Shridhar Krithiga , Singh Gurpreet , Dey Subhojit , Singh Dhatt Sarvdeep , Paul Singh Gill Jatinder , Goodman Michael , Samar Magsumbol Melina , Pearce Neil , Singh Sandeep , Singh Archna , Singh Preeti , Singh Thakur Jarnail , Kaur Dhillon Preet
Published: September 2018

Evidence from India, a country with unique and distinct food intake patterns often characterized by lifelong adherence, may offer important insight into the role of diet in breast cancer etiology. We evaluated the association between Indian dietary patterns and breast cancer risk in a multi-centre case-control study conducted in the North Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. Eligible cases were women 30–69 years of age, with newly diagnosed, biopsy-confirmed breast cancer recruited from hospitals or population-based cancer registries. Controls (hospital- or population-based) were frequency matched to the cases on age and region (Punjab or Haryana). Information about diet, lifestyle, reproductive and socio-demographic factors was collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. All participants were characterized as non-vegetarians, lacto-vegetarians (those who consumed no animal products except dairy) or lacto-ovo-vegetarians (persons whose diet also included eggs). The study population included 400 breast cancer cases and 354 controls. Most (62%) were lacto-ovo-vegetarians. Breast cancer risk was lower in lacto-ovo-vegetarians compared to both non-vegetarians and lacto-vegetarians with odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 0.6 (0.3–0.9) and 0.4 (0.3–0.7), respectively. The unexpected difference between lacto-ovo-vegetarian and lacto-vegetarian dietary patterns could be due to egg-consumption patterns which requires confirmation and further investigation.
Associations among Elder Abuse, Depression and PTSD in South Korean Older Adults
Authors: Choi Yun-Jung , O’Donnell Meaghan , Choi Hwa-Bok , Jung Hae-Sun , Cowlishaw Sean
Published: September 2018

Increasing attention is being placed on the prevalence of elder abuse and its impact on mental health. This study conducted a survey of 172 elderly people in South Korea to determine the prevalence of elder abuse and the relationships involving elder abuse, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Participants completed a battery of self-report questionnaires, which included the Korean Geriatric Depression Screening Scale (KGDS) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised Korean version (IES-R-K). Descriptive analyses were conducted to examine the frequency of specific forms of abuse. Logistic regression models were estimated to identify the factors that contributed to risk of abuse exposure and the relationship between exposure and PTSD or depression. The results indicated around 22% of the participants reported abuse exposure, which most commonly included being refused physical contact, verbal threats, and/or being excluded from decision-making about personal issues. Low education and being unmarried, separated or divorced was associated with an increased risk of abuse exposure. There were strong associations between elder abuse and PTSD symptoms, while comparable relationships with depression were weaker and were not robust to the inclusion of control variables. The findings provided empirical support for the relationship between abuse experiences of the elderly and poor mental health and raise important issues for the mental health care of the elderly.
Introduction to the Special Issue: “State-of-the-Art Virtual/Augmented Reality and 3D Modeling Techniques for Virtual Urban Geographic Experiments”
Authors: Liang Jianming , Gong Jianhua , Liu Yu
Published: September 2018

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Pumpkin CmHKT1;1 Controls Shoot Na+ Accumulation via Limiting Na+ Transport from Rootstock to Scion in Grafted Cucumber
Authors: Sun Jingyu , Cao Haishun , Cheng Jintao , He Xiaomeng , Sohail Hamza , Niu Mengliang , Huang Yuan , Bie Zhilong
Published: September 2018

Soil salinity adversely affects the growth and yield of crops, including cucumber, one of the most important vegetables in the world. Grafting with salt-tolerant pumpkin as the rootstock effectively improves the growth of cucumber under different salt conditions by limiting Na+ transport from the pumpkin rootstock to the cucumber scion. High-affinity potassium transporters (HKTs) are crucial for the long distance transport of Na+ in plants, but the function of pumpkin HKTs in this process of grafted cucumber plants remains unclear. In this work, we have characterized CmHKT1;1 as a member of the HKT gene family in Cucurbita moschata and observed an obvious upregulation of CmHKT1;1 in roots under NaCl stress conditions. Heterologous expression analyses in yeast mutants indicated that CmHKT1;1 is a Na+-selective transporter. The transient expression in tobacco epidermal cells and in situ hybridization showed CmHKT1;1 localization at plasma membrane, and preferential expression in root stele. Moreover, ectopic expression of CmHKT1;1 in cucumber decreased the Na+ accumulation in the plants shoots. Finally, the CmHKT1;1 transgenic line as the rootstock decreased the Na+ content in the wild type shoots. These findings suggest that CmHKT1;1 plays a key role in the salt tolerance of grafted cucumber by limiting Na+ transport from the rootstock to the scion and can further be useful for engineering salt tolerance in cucurbit crops.
Reliability of Neonatal Screening Results
Authors: Knapkova Maria , Hall Kate , Loeber Gerard
Published: September 2018

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Feature Selection and Recognition Methods for Discovering Physiological and Bioinformatics RESTful Services
Authors: Song Chao , Gao Xinyu , Wang Yongqian , Li Jinhai , Fan Lifeng , Qin Xiaohuang , Zhou Qiao , Wang Zhongyi , Huang Lan
Published: September 2018

Many physiology and bioinformatics research institutions and websites have opened their own data analysis services and other related Web services. It is therefore very important to be able to quickly and effectively select and extract features from the Web service pages to learn about and use these services. This facilitates the automatic discovery and recognition of Representational State Transfer or RESTful services. However, this task is still challenging. Following the description feature pattern of a RESTful service, the authors proposed a Feature Pattern Search and Replace (FPSR) method. First, they applied a regular expression to perform a matching lookup. Then, a custom string was used to substitute the relevant feature pattern to avoid the segmentation of its feature pattern and the loss of its feature information during the segmentation process. Experimental results showed in the visualization that FPSR obtained a clearer and more obvious boundary with fewer overlaps than the test without using FPSR, thereby enabling a higher accuracy rate. Therefore, FPSR allowed the authors to extract RESTful service page feature information and achieve better classification results.
One-Dimensional Fluorene-Based Co(II) Phosphonate Co(H2O)2PO3C–C12H9·H2O: Structure and Magnetism
Authors: Bloyet Clarisse , Rueff Jean-Michel , Perez Olivier , Pautrat Alain , Caignaert Vincent , Raveau Bernard , Rogez Guillaume , Jaffrès Paul-Alain
Published: September 2018

A new Co(II) phosphonate, Co(H2O)2PO3C–C12H9·H2O, has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. The monoclinic P21/c structure of this organic–inorganic hybrid consists of isolated perovskite-type chains of corner-shared CoO4(H2O)2 octahedra interconnected via phosphonate groups. The unique one-dimensional structure of this phase is closely related to the single-chain magnet (SCM) phosphonate Co(H2L)(H2O), with L = 4-Me-C6H4-CH2N(CPO3H2)2, that contains isolated chains of CoO5N octahedra. Like the latter, this hybrid exhibits 1D antiferromagnetic interactions and the possibility of an effective pseudo spin contribution due to spin canting at low temperature, but, in contrast, is not an SCM. This different magnetic behavior is explained by the different geometry of the octahedral chains and by the possible existence of weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the chains. This opens the route to the investigation of a large series of compounds by tuning the chemical composition and structure of the phosphonic acid used as organic precursor of hybrid materials.
Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System
Authors: Huang Zhiyi , Liu Yu , Qi Guangying , Brand David , Zheng Song
Published: September 2018

Vitamin A (VitA) is a micronutrient that is crucial for maintaining vision, promoting growth and development, and protecting epithelium and mucus integrity in the body. VitA is known as an anti-inflammation vitamin because of its critical role in enhancing immune function. VitA is involved in the development of the immune system and plays regulatory roles in cellular immune responses and humoral immune processes. VitA has demonstrated a therapeutic effect in the treatment of various infectious diseases. To better understand the relationship between nutrition and the immune system, the authors review recent literature about VitA in immunity research and briefly introduce the clinical application of VitA in the treatment of several infectious diseases.
The Magneto-Mechanical Behavior of Active Components in Iron-Elastomer Composite
Authors: Samal Sneha , Kolinova Marcela , Blanco Ignazio
Published: September 2018

The magneto-rheological effects in iron-elastomer composites (IEC) were investigated by simulation, surface topography, and 3D representation. The simulated behavior of magneto-rheological elastomeric composites in the presence of an external magnetic field was determined and the influence of magnetic intensity on the isotropic distribution of iron filler particles in IECs was investigated. The magnetic intensity distribution was analyzed from the edge of the surface towards the center of the IEC. The samples were characterized for microstructural images after experimental tests using both micro-computed tomography (µCT) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The adhesion of filler particles within the matrix of the magneto-rheological elastomer (MRE) composite and their distributions were also investigated. µCT showed the overall 3D representation of IEC and the inner distribution of filler particles revealed the presence of some porosity which may be due to bubbles and voids in the matrix of the composite. Finally, a mechanism was established governing particle–particle interactions on the basis of dipole–dipole interactions.
Semi-Active Structural Control of Offshore Wind Turbines Considering Damage Development
Authors: Hemmati Arash , Oterkus Erkan
Published: September 2018

High flexibility of new offshore wind turbines (OWT) makes them vulnerable since they are subjected to large environmental loadings, wind turbine excitations and seismic loadings. A control system capable of mitigating undesired vibrations with the potential of modifying its structural properties depending on time-variant loadings and damage development can effectively enhance serviceability and fatigue lifetime of turbine systems. In the present paper, a model for offshore wind turbine systems equipped with a semi-active time-variant tuned mass damper is developed considering nonlinear soil–pile interaction phenomenon and time-variant damage conditions. The adaptive concept of this tuned mass damper assumes slow change in its structural properties. Stochastic wind and wave loadings in conjunction with ground motions are applied to the system. Damages to soil and tower caused by earthquake strokes are considered and the semi-active control device is retuned to the instantaneous frequency of the system using short-time Fourier transformation (STFT). The performance of semi-active time-variant vibration control is compared with its passive counterpart in operational and parked conditions. The dynamic responses for a single seismic record and a set of seismic records are presented. The results show that a semi-active mass damper with a mass ratio of 1% performs significantly better than a passive tuned mass damper with a mass ratio of 4%.
Therapy and Antifungal Susceptibility Profile of Microsporum canis
Authors: Aneke Chioma , Otranto Domenico , Cafarchia Claudia
Published: September 2018

Microsporum canis is a worldwide diffused zoophilic dermatophyte which causes clinical conditions often characterised by multifocal alopecia, scaling, and circular lesions in many animal species, including humans. A large variety of oral and topical antifungal protocols is available for treating M. canis infection. However, the efficacy of these drugs and treatment protocols is variable, with treatment failure up to 40% of patients possibly due to resistance phenomena. The lack of standardised reference methods for evaluating the antifungal susceptibility of M. canis represents a major hindrance in assessing microbiological resistance in unresponsive clinical cases. Therefore, data about conventional therapy against M. canis and the protocols employed to test the antifungal activity of the most commonly employed drugs (i.e., azoles, polyenes, allylamines, and griseofulvin) have been summarised herein. This article focuses on technical parameters used for antifungal susceptibility tests, their effects on the minimum inhibitory concentration value, as well as their clinical implications.
Polarization-Controlled and Flexible Single-/Penta-Band Metamaterial Absorber
Authors: Wang Jiayun , Yang Rongcao , Xu Jianping , Tian Jinping , Ma Runbo , Zhang Wenmei
Published: September 2018

In this paper, a polarization-controlled and flexible metamaterial absorber made of a set of wires etched on ultrathin teflon dielectric substrate is proposed. The simulation results showed that the proposed absorber achieved single-band absorptivity of 99.8% at 6.64 GHz for the TM (transverse magnetic) polarization wave and penta-band absorptivity of more than 99% at 11.68 GHz, 13.58 GHz, 15.48 GHz, 17.38 GHz, and 19.28 GHz for the TE (transverse electric) polarization waves. Moreover, each absorption peak had very narrow relative bandwidth and the position of penta-band absorption peaks could be adjusted by changing the length of the corresponding wire or selecting suitable substrate material according to actual requirements, because each wire can independently respond to electromagnetic (EM) waves. Furthermore, the surface current distributions corresponding to each absorption peak were studied to demonstrate the absorption mechanism. The absorption properties of the proposed structure with different bending radii and under different incident angles of the EM waves were investigated, showing good flexibility and incident angle-insensitive properties. In addition, the simulation results were confirmed by measuring a fabricated prototype. The proposed absorber may have useful applications in polarizers, sensors, bolometers, polarization detectors, etc.
Push-Out Bond Strength and SEM Evaluation in Roots Filled with Two Different Techniques Using New and Conventional Sealers
Authors: Dabaj Pervin , Kalender Atakan , Unverdi Eldeniz Ayce
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of calcium-silicate-based sealer (Endosequence-BC-Sealer) in roots, filled with thermo-plasticized injectable technique aided by Calamus-Flow-Delivery-System, on bond strength to radicular dentin, in comparison with conventional epoxy-resin-based sealer (AH-Plus) along with cold-lateral-compaction technique. Root canals of mandibular-premolar teeth (n = 80) were instrumented using Protaper Universal rotary files and were randomly divided into four experimental groups (n = 20) as follows: (1) AH-Plus + cold-lateral-compaction technique; (2) Endosequence-BC-Sealer + cold-lateral-compaction technique; (3) AH-Plus + thermo-plasticized injectable technique; and (4) Endosequence-BC-Sealer + thermo-plasticized injectable technique. Horizontal disc shaped samples from each group (n = 60/group) were obtained and push-out bond strength testing was performed at a cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/min. Data were analyzed statistically using nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis analysis and Mann-Whitney test (p < 0.001). The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference amongst the groups (p < 0.001). The highest bond strength values were found in group 1 compared with all the other experimental groups (p < 0.001), whereas the lowest bond strength values were found in group 4 (p < 0.001). It was concluded that thermo-plasticized injectable technique with Calamus-Flow-Delivery-System lowered the bond strengths of the sealers, especially Endosequence-BC-Sealer. Therefore, this technique is not recommended to calcium-silicate-based sealers. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings of this study.
Transferred PMN-PT Thick Film on Conductive Silver Epoxy
Authors: Zhang Tao , Ou-Yang Jun , Yang Xiaofei , Zhu Benpeng
Published: September 2018

Approximately 25 μm Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) thick film was synthesized based on a sol-gel/composite route. The obtained PMN-PT thick film was successfully transferred from the Silicon substrate to the conductive silver epoxy using a novel wet chemical method. The mechanism of this damage free transfer was explored and analyzed. Compared with the film on Silicon substrate, the transferred one exhibited superior dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties. These promising results indicate that transferred PMN-PT thick film possesses the capability for piezoelectric device application, especially for ultrasound transducer fabrication. Most importantly, this chemical route opens a new path for transfer of thick film.
Dissolving Microneedle Patches for Transdermal Insulin Delivery in Diabetic Mice: Potential for Clinical Applications
Authors: Chen Chih-Hao , Shyu Victor Bong-Hang , Chen Chien-Tzung
Published: September 2018

In this study, dissolving polymeric microneedle (MN) patches composed of gelatin and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were used to localize insulin. Their in vitro skin insertion capabilities were determined using tissue-marking dye to stain the skin after patches removal. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to determine changes in the MNs over time, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to monitor their real-time penetration depth. Confocal microscopy images revealed that rhodamine 6G gradually diffuses from the puncture sites to deeper dermal tissue. Using an in vivo imaging system (IVIS), skin areas that received FITC-insulin-loaded MNs were found to present strong fluorescent signals that greatly decreased 1 h after application. Results show that dissolving MNs rapidly release FITC-insulin, and it then gradually diffuses into the skin. This study verifies that using a gelatin/CMC MN patch for insulin delivery achieves satisfactory relative bioavailability compared to a traditional hypodermic injection and can be a promising delivery device for poorly permeable protein drugs such as those used to treat diabetes. Insertion tests on human cadaveric skin demonstrate that dissolving MNs could serve as efficient devices for transdermal drug delivery in clinical practice and that the volar aspect of forearm skin is the ideal location for their applications.
Effects of Loading Frequency and Specimen Geometry on High Cycle and Very High Cycle Fatigue Life of a High Strength Titanium Alloy
Authors: Li Yanqing , Song Qingyuan , Feng Shichao , Sun Chengqi
Published: September 2018

Titanium alloys have been widely used in the structural parts of deep-sea equipment and aviation industries. In this paper, the effects of loading frequency and specimen geometry on the high cycle and very high cycle fatigue life of the high strength titanium alloy Ti-6Al-2Sn-2Zr-3Mo-X is investigated by conventional fatigue test and ultrasonic frequency fatigue test. The results indicate that ultrasonic frequency could enhance the fatigue life of the highstrength titanium alloy compared with that under conventional frequency, and the frequency effect is related to the stress amplitude. This phenomenon is explained by the heat generation in specimens and heat dissipation, in combination with the high strain rate leading to the higher yield strength in the ultrasonic fatigue test. Moreover, it is indicated that the effect of specimen geometry on the fatigue life of the highstrength titanium alloy could be evaluated from the view of control volume.
Research Status and Prospect on Vanadium-Based Catalysts for NH3-SCR Denitration
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Xiangcheng , Chen Pingan , Zhu Boquan
Published: September 2018

Selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 is one of the most widely used technologies in denitration. Vanadium-based catalysts have been extensively studied for the deNOx process. V2O5/WO3(MoO3)TiO2 as a commercial catalyst has excellent catalytic activity in the medium temperature range. However, it has usually faced several problems in practical industrial applications, including narrow windows of operation temperatures, and the deactivation of catalysts. The modification of vanadium-based catalysts will be the focus in future research. In this paper, the chemical composition of vanadium-based catalysts, catalytic mechanism, the broadening of the temperature range, and the improvement of erosion resistance are reviewed. Furthermore, the effects of four major systems of copper, iron, cerium and manganese on the modification of vanadium-based catalysts are introduced and analyzed. It is worth noting that the addition of modified elements as promoters has greatly improved the catalytic performance. They can enhance the surface acidity, which leads to the increasing adsorption capacity of NH3. Surface defects and oxygen vacancies have also been increased, resulting in more active sites. Finally, the future development of vanadium-based catalysts for denitration is prospected. It is indicated that the main purpose for the research of vanadium-based modification will help to obtain safe, environmentally friendly, efficient, and economical catalysts.
A Novel Fluoride Containing Bioactive Glass Paste is Capable of Re-Mineralizing Early Caries Lesions
Authors: Bakry Ahmed Samir , Abbassy Mona Aly , Alharkan Hanin Fahad , Basuhail Sara , Al-Ghamdi Khalil , Hill Robert
Published: September 2018

White-spot-lesions (WSL) are a common complication associated with orthodontic treatment. In the current study, the remineralization efficacy of a BiominF® paste was compared to the efficacy of a fluoride gel. Methods: Orthodontic brackets were bonded to 60 human premolars buccal surfaces, which were covered with varnish, except a small treatment area (3 mm2). All specimens were challenged by a demineralization solution for 4 days. Specimens were assigned into 4 groups: BiominF® paste, Fluoride (4-min application), fluoride (twenty four hours application), and the control (n = 15). After cross-sectioning, enamel slabs having a thickness of approximately 100–120 μm were obtained. A TMR (Transverse Micro Radiography) technique was used to observe the sub-surface enamel lesions’ depth and mineral density, and their response to the remineralization protocols. One way ANOVA was used to analyze the results (α = 0.05). The top and the cross-sectional surfaces were observed using SEM/EDS. Results: Specimens treated with BiominF® paste showed significant decrease in delta z values, however lesion depth showed no significant difference when compared to the other three groups (p < 0.05). SEM/EDS observation showed the formation of crystal like structures on top of enamel demineralized surfaces, when treated with BiominF® paste. In conclusion BiominF® paste can be considered an effective remineralizing agent for white spot Lesions.
Comparison of Flank Super Abrasive Machining vs. Flank Milling on Inconel® 718 Surfaces
Authors: González Haizea , Pereira Octavio , Fernández-Valdivielso Asier , López de Lacalle L. , Calleja Amaia
Published: September 2018

Thermoresistant superalloys present many challenges in terms of machinability, which leads to finding new alternatives to conventional manufacturing processes. In order to face this issue, super abrasive machining (SAM) is presented as a solution due to the fact that it combines the advantages of the use of grinding tools with milling feed rates. This technique is commonly used for finishing operations. Nevertheless, this work analyses the feasibility of this technique for roughing operations. In order to verify the adequacy of this new technique as an alternative to conventional process for roughing operations, five slots were performed in Inconel® 718 using flank SAM and flank milling. The results showed that flank SAM implies a suitable and controllable process to improve the manufacture of high added value components made by nickel-based superalloys in terms of roughness, microhardness, white layer, and residual stresses.
Effects of Pore Size on Fatigue Deformation Mechanism of Open-Cell Copper Foam at Low Stress Amplitude
Authors: Chen Jian , Dai Shuowei , Li Cong , Li Wei , Ren Yanjie
Published: September 2018

Axial compression-compression fatigue experiments on open-cell copper foams with different pore size were investigated in this paper. The effects of the strain amplitude on the fatigue properties were studied and found that there is an exponential relationship between the fatigue life and strain amplitude. The experimental results indicate that a smaller pore size is related to a lower fatigue life. The microstructures of failed copper foam tested at low stress amplitude were observed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), suggests that different pore size related to different fatigue behavior. The fatigue failure mechanism of the open-cell copper foams were compared by experimental research.
(+)-Aeroplysinin-1 Modulates the Redox Balance of Endothelial Cells
Authors: García-Vilas Javier A. , Martínez-Poveda Beatriz , Quesada Ana R. , Medina Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2018

The bioactive natural compound from marine origin, (+)-aeroplysinin-1, has been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects. The aim of the present study was to identify new targets for (+)-aeroplysinin-1 in endothelial cells. The sequential use of 2D-electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF-TOF/MS allowed us to identify several differentially expressed proteins. Four of these proteins were involved in redox processes and were validated by Western blot. The effects of (+)-aeroplysinin-1 were further studied by testing the effects of the treatment with this compound on the activity of several anti- and pro-oxidant enzymes, as well as on transcription factors involved in redox homeostasis. Finally, changes in the levels of total reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential induced by endothelial cell treatments with (+)-aeroplysinin-1 were also determined. Taken altogether, these findings show that (+)-aeroplysinin-1 has multiple targets involved in endothelial cell redox regulation.
Marine Microalgae: Promising Source for New Bioactive Compounds
Authors: De Vera Caterina , Díaz Crespín Guillermo , Hernández Daranas Antonio , Montalvão Looga Sofia , Lillsunde Katja-Emilia , Tammela Päivi , Perälä Merja , Hongisto Vesa , Virtanen Johannes , Rischer Heiko , Muller Christian , Norte Manuel , Fernández José , Souto María
Published: September 2018

The study of marine natural products for their bioactive potential has gained strength in recent years. Oceans harbor a vast variety of organisms that offer a biological and chemical diversity with metabolic abilities unrivalled in terrestrial systems, which makes them an attractive target for bioprospecting as an almost untapped resource of biotechnological applications. Among them, there is no doubt that microalgae could become genuine “cell factories” for the biological synthesis of bioactive substances. Thus, in the course of inter-laboratory collaboration sponsored by the European Union (7th FP) into the MAREX Project focused on the discovery of novel bioactive compounds of marine origin for the European industry, a bioprospecting study on 33 microalgae strains was carried out. The strains were cultured at laboratory scale. Two extracts were prepared for each one (biomass and cell free culture medium) and, thus, screened to provide information on the antimicrobial, the anti-proliferative, and the apoptotic potential of the studied extracts. The outcome of this study provides additional scientific data for the selection of Alexandrium tamarensis WE, Gambierdiscus australes, Prorocentrum arenarium, Prorocentrum hoffmannianum, and Prorocentrum reticulatum (Pr-3) for further investigation and offers support for the continued research of new potential drugs for human therapeutics from cultured microalgae.
Graphene Oxide (GO)-Blended Polysulfone (PSf) Ultrafiltration Membranes for Lead Ion Rejection
Authors: Ravishankar Harish , Christy Jens , Jegatheesan Veeriah
Published: September 2018

Graphene oxide (GO) has been widely reported and used for treatment of heavy metals from different waste streams. Although their use as additives for membranes has greatly enhanced membrane properties, there is still a bottleneck in obtaining membranes with high heavy-metal rejection efficiencies while maintaining high flux, mechanical strength, and porosity. In the present study, different compositions of GO (0–1 wt %)-blended membranes were prepared using 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as solvent and water with 5% ethanol as non-solvent, and studied for the rejection of the chosen model heavy-metal lead. The prepared membranes were characterized for hydrophilicity, membrane porosity, flux, permeability, pore-size, mechanical strength, and membrane morphology. From the results, it was inferred that membranes having maximum GO in their blend (1 wt %) showed better hydrophilicity (water contact angle 34.2°), porosity (82.2%), permeability (52.1 L/m2 h bar), and pure water flux (163.71 L/m2 h) at 3-bar pressure as opposed to other compositions. The pore sizes of the membranes ranged between 18 to 24 nm. Tensile strength tests showed the role of GO as a positive reinforcement on the mechanical properties of membranes through Young’s modulus (188.13 ± 15.36 MPa) for the membrane having 0.25 wt % GO composition. Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) images displayed the dense top layer supported by a porous, finger-like structure, obtained from instantaneous de-mixing favored by NMP and GO. The observed reduction in flux of lead solution for GO-blended membranes was due to osmotic pressure build-up caused by the retained nitrate salt by GO on the retentate side of the membrane. A maximum rejection of 98% was achieved with 1 wt % GO membrane at 1-bar pressure with flux of 43.62 L/m2 h, which decreased to 94% at 3-bar pressure with flux of 142.95 L/m2 h. These results showed how the application of NMP as solvent and GO as an additive could facilitate in obtaining high-flux and high-rejection membranes.
Effect of Calcium on the Hot Working Behavior of AZ31-1.5 vol.% Nano-Alumina Composite Prepared by Disintegrated Melt Deposition (DMD) Processing
Authors: Rao Kamineni Pitcheswara , Dharmendra Chalasani , Suresh Kalidass , Prasad Yellapregada Venkata Rama Krishna , Gupta Manoj
Published: September 2018

AZ31-based nanocomposites are produced by disintegrated melt deposition (DMD) processing. In this investigation, the influence of the addition of Ca to AZ31-1.5 vol.% nano-alumina composite (base) on its hot working behavior is studied to develop a processing route for manufacturing components with these composites. A processing map for the base composite in the temperature range 250–500 °C and strain rate 0.0003–10 s−1 is compared with those for composites with 1% Ca and 2% Ca. The grain size of the base composite is refined by Ca addition and the <10 1 ¯ 0> texture is strengthened. Besides nano-alumina particles, the Ca-containing composites have intermetallic particles (Mg,Al)2Ca present at grain boundaries as well as in the matrix. All the three nanocomposites exhibit three DRX domains, with one of them at high strain rate that facilitates high productivity. Addition of Ca mitigates the occurrence of wedge cracking that occurs in AZ31-1.5NAl composite. Increasing of Ca addition to 2% prevents dynamic recrystallization (DRX) at lower temperatures and strain rates and causes only dynamic recovery. At lower temperatures and higher strain rates, DRX occurs by basal + prismatic slip along with recovery via climb controlled by grain boundary self-diffusion promoted by very fine grain size in the composites.
Enhanced Soft Magnetic Properties of Iron-Based Powder Cores with Co-Existence of Fe3O4–MnZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Xie Yuye , Yan Pengfei , Yan Biao
Published: September 2018

An iron-based soft magnetic composite with Fe3O4-MnZnFe2O4 insulation coating has been prepared by powder metallurgy method. This work investigated the microstructure and magnetic properties of Fe/Fe3O4-MnZnFe2O4 powder cores. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with an energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) analysis indicated that the Fe3O4 and MnZnFe2O4 nanoparticles were uniformly coated on the surface of Fe powders. The co-existence of Fe3O4 and MnZnFe2O4 contributes to the preferable distribution of nano-sized insulation powders and excellent soft magnetic properties of soft magnetic composite (SMC) with high saturation magnetization Ms (215 A·m2/kg), low core loss (178.7 W/kg measured at 100 kHz, 50 mT), and high effective amplitude permeability of 114 (measured at 100 kHz). Overall, this work has great potential for realizing low core loss and outstanding soft magnetic properties of Fe-based powder cores.
Analyzing the Deformation and Fracture of Bioinert Titanium, Zirconium and Niobium Alloys in Different Structural States by the Use of Infrared Thermography
Authors: Sharkeev Yurii , Vavilov Vladimir , Skripnyak Vladimir A. , Belyavskaya Olga , Legostaeva Elena , Kozulin Alexander , Chulkov Arsenii , Sorokoletov Alexey , Skripnyak Vladimir V. , Eroshenko Anna , Kuimova Marina
Published: September 2018

Bioinert metals are used for medical implants and in some industrial applications. This study was performed to detect and analyze peculiarities that appear in the temperature distributions during quasi-static tensile testing of bioinert alloys. These alloys include VT1-0 titanium, Zr-1%Nb and Ti-45%Nb in both coarse-grain (CG) and ultrafine-grain (UFG) states. The crystal structure, as well as the crystal domain and grain sizes of these alloys in the UFG state, may be different from the CG versions and identifying the thermal signatures that occur during their deformation and fracture is of interest, as it may lead to an understanding of physical processes that occur during loading. By comparing the surface temperature distributions of specimens undergoing deformation under tensile loading to the distributions at maximum temperatures it was found that the observed differences depend on the alloy type, the alloy structural state and the thermal properties of structural defects in the specimen. Macro-defects were found in some specimens of VT1-0 titanium, Zr-1Nb and Ti-45Nb alloys in both the CG and UFG states. The average tensile strength of specimens containing defects was lower than that of specimens with no defects. Infrared thermography documents change in the thermal patterns of specimens as they are deformed under tensile loading and when the load stops changing or the specimen breaks.
A ΣΔ Closed-Loop Interface for a MEMS Accelerometer with Digital Built-In Self-Test Function
Authors: Chen Dongliang , Liu Xiaowei , Yin Liang , Wang Yinhang , Shi Zhaohe , Zhang Guorui
Published: September 2018

Sigma-delta (ΣΔ) closed-loop operation is the best candidate for realizing the interface circuit of MEMS accelerometers. However, stability and reliability problems are still the main obstacles hindering its further development for high-end applications. In situ self-testing and calibration is an alternative way to solve these problems in the current process condition, and thus, has received a lot of attention in recent years. However, circuit methods for self-testing of ΣΔ closed-loop accelerometers are rarely reported. In this paper, we propose a fifth-order ΣΔ closed-loop interface for a capacitive MEMS accelerometer. The nonlinearity problem of the system is detailed discussed, the source of it is analyzed, and the solutions are given. Furthermore, a built-in self-test (BIST) unit is integrated on-chip for in situ self-testing of the loop distortion. In BIST mode, a digital electrostatic excitation is generated by an on-chip digital resonator, which is also ΣΔ modulated. By single-bit ΣΔ-modulation, the noise and linearity of excitation is effectively improved, and a higher detection level for distortion is easily achieved, as opposed to the physical excitation generated by the motion of laboratory equipment.
Chemometric Comparison and Classification of Some Essential Oils Extracted from Plants Belonging to Apiaceae and Lamiaceae Families Based on Their Chemical Composition and Biological Activities
Authors: Semeniuc Cristina Anamaria , Socaciu Maria-Ioana , Socaci Sonia Ancuţa , Mureșan Vlad , Fogarasi Melinda , Rotar Ancuţa Mihaela
Published: September 2018

This study is focused on the comparison and classification of parsley, lovage, basil, and thyme essential oils (EOs) based on their chemical composition, total phenolic content, antioxidant and antibacterial activities by using appropriate chemometric methods: Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The results showed that parsley, lovage, and thyme EOs are rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons, but basil EO is rich in oxygenated monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids, and that both PCA and HCA separated essential oils into two main groups of which one contains two sub-groups. β-Phellandrene was the major component identified in parsley and lovage EOs, estragole was the major component in basil EO, and p-cymene was the major component in thyme EO. Thyme EO showed the highest level of total phenolics, the highest antioxidant capacity, and exhibited the stronger antibacterial activity, results that were emphasized by both chemometric methods used. Among tested essential oils, the one of parsley was distinguished by a low total TPC, weak antioxidant activity, and weak antibacterial activity against S. enteritidis (ATCC 13076); lovage EO by low TPC, weak antioxidant activity, but moderate antibacterial activity; and basil EO by low TPC, moderate antioxidant activity, and weak antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes (ATCC 19114).
Involvement of Up-Regulation of DR5 Expression and Down-Regulation of c-FLIP in Niclosamide-Mediated TRAIL Sensitization in Human Renal Carcinoma Caki Cells
Authors: Yun Jeong Mi , Woo Seon Min , Seo Seung Un , Min Kyoung-Jin , Kim Dong Eun , Kwon Taeg Kyu
Published: September 2018

Niclosamide is used to treat intestinal parasite infections, as being an anthelmintic drug. Recently, several papers suggest the niclosamide inhibits multiple signaling pathways, which are highly activated and mutated in cancer. Here, niclosamide was evaluated for identifying strategies to overcome tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) resistance. Although niclosamide (100–200 nM) alone did not bring about cell death, combinations of niclosamide and TRAIL led to apoptotic cell death in carcinoma cells, but not in normal cells. Niclosamide markedly increased DR5 protein levels, including cell-surface DR5, and decreased c-FLIP protein levels. Down-regulation of DR5 by specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) and ectopic expression of c-FLIP markedly blocked niclosamide plus TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Our findings provide that niclosamide could overcome resistance to TRAIL through up-regulating DR5 on the cell surface and down-regulating c-FLIP in cancer cells. Taken together, niclosamide may be an attractive candidate to overcome TRAIL resistance.
Molecular Recognition of Parallel G-quadruplex [d-(TTGGGGT)]4 Containing Tetrahymena Telomeric DNA Sequence by Anticancer Drug Daunomycin: NMR-Based Structure and Thermal Stability
Authors: Barthwal Ritu , Tariq Zia
Published: September 2018

The anticancer drug daunomycin exerts its influence by multiple strategies of action to interfere with gene functioning. Besides inhibiting DNA/RNA synthesis and topoisomerase-II, it affects the functional pathway of telomere maintenance by the telomerase enzyme. We present evidence of the binding of daunomycin to parallel-stranded tetramolecular [d-(TTGGGGT)]4 guanine (G)-quadruplex DNA comprising telomeric DNA from Tetrahymena thermophilia by surface plasmon resonance and Diffusion Ordered SpectroscopY (DOSY). Circular Dichroism (CD) spectra show the disruption of daunomycin dimers, suggesting the end-stacking and groove-binding of the daunomycin monomer. Proton and phosphorus-31 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy show a sequence-specific interaction and a clear proof of absence of intercalation of the daunomycin chromophore between base quartets or stacking between G-quadruplexes. Restrained molecular dynamics simulations using observed short interproton distance contacts depict interaction at the molecular level. The interactions involving ring A and daunosamine protons, the stacking of an aromatic ring of daunomycin with a terminal G6 quartet by displacing the T7 base, and external groove-binding close to the T1–T2 bases lead to the thermal stabilization of 15 °C, which is likely to inhibit the association of telomerase with telomeres. The findings have implications in the structure-based designing of anthracycline drugs as potent telomerase inhibitors.
Application of Organo-Magadiites for the Removal of Eosin Dye from Aqueous Solutions: Thermal Treatment and Regeneration
Authors: Kooli Fethi , Liu Yan , Abboudi Mostafa , Rakass Souad , Hassani Hicham Oudghiri , Ibrahim Sheikh Muhammad , Al-Faze Rawan
Published: September 2018

Na-magadiite exchanged with cetyl-trimethylammonium cations provided organophilic silicate materials that allowed for the effective removal of the acidic dye “eosin”. The organic cations were intercalated into the interlayer spacing of the layered silicate via an exchange reaction between the organic cations from their bromide salt and the solid Na-magadiite at room temperature. Different techniques were used to characterize the effect of the initial concentration of the surfactant on the structure of the organo-magadiites. The C, H, and N analysis indicated that a maximum of organic cations of 0.97 mmol/g was achieved and was accompanied by an expansion of the basal spacing of 3.08 nm, with a tilted angle of 59° to the silicate layers. The conformation of the organic surfactants was probed using solid-state 13C, finding mainly the trans conformation similar to that of the starting cetyl trimethylammonium bromide salt (C16TMABr). Thermal gravimetric analysis was carried out to study the thermal stability of the resulting organo-magadiites. The intercalated surfactants started to decompose at 200 °C, with a mass loss percentage of 8% to 25%, depending on the initial loading of the surfactant, and was accompanied by a decrease of the basal spacing from 3.16 nm to 2.51 nm, as deduced from the in situ X-ray diffraction studies. At temperatures below 220 °C, an expansion of the basal spacing from 3.15 to 3.34 nm occurred. These materials were used as a removal agent for the anionic dye eosin. The maximum amount of the dye removed was related to the organic cation content and to the initial concentration of eosin, with an improvement from 2.5 mg/g to 80.65 mg/g. This value decreased when the organo-magadiite was preheated at temperatures above 200 °C. The regeneration tests indicated that an 85% removal efficiency was maintained after six cycles of use for the organo-magadiite using Ci of 200 mg/L.
Bioactive Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Properties of the Grains and Sprouts of Colored Wheat Genotypes
Authors: Sytar Oksana , Bośko Paulina , Živčák Marek , Brestic Marian , Smetanska Iryna
Published: September 2018

The grains and sprouts of colored wheat genotypes (having blue, purple and yellow colored grains) contain specific anthocyanidins, such as pelargonidin and cyanidin derivatives, that produce beneficial health effects. The objective of the presented study is to compare the antioxidant capacity and contents of bioactive phytochemicals in grains and sprouts of wheat genotypes that differ in grain color. The methods α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activities, together with spectrophotometrical and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) methods, were used to study the presence of total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins and anthocyanidins (pelargonidin, peonidin, cyanidin, delphinidin) content. It was predicted that the sprouts of all colored wheat genotypes would have significantly higher total flavonoids, total phenolics, anthocyanidin levels and antioxidant activity than the grains. The correlation results between antioxidant activity and contents of bioactive phytochemicals in grains and sprouts of colored wheat genotypes have shown a high correlation for cyanidin and pelargonidin, especially in grains, as well as quercetin in sprouts. It was found that total anthocyanin, quercetin and pelargonidin contents were significantly higher in the sprouts of the purple wheat genotypes than in the blue or yellow wheat genotypes. Delphinidin was detected at a higher level in the grains than in the sprouts of the blue wheat genotypes. Peonidin was present at very low quantities in the grains of all colored wheat genotypes. The sprouts of the purple wheat genotypes, among the colored wheat genotypes, had the highest pelargonidin, cyanidin and quercetin contents and, therefore, can be a promising source for functional food use.
Sol-Gel Immobilisation of Lipases: Towards Active and Stable Biocatalysts for the Esterification of Valeric Acid
Authors: Cebrián-García Soledad , Balu Alina M. , García Araceli , Luque Rafael
Published: September 2018

Alkyl esters are high added value products useful in a wide range of industrial sectors. A methodology based on a simple sol-gel approach (biosilicification) is herein proposed to encapsulate enzymes in order to design highly active and stable biocatalysts. Their performance was assessed through the optimization of valeric acid esterification evaluating the effect of different parameters (biocatalyst load, presence of water, reaction temperature and stirring rate) in different alcoholic media, and comparing two different methodologies: conventional heating and microwave irradiation. Ethyl valerate yields were in the 80–85% range under optimum conditions (15 min, 12% m/v biocatalyst, molar ratio 1:2 of valeric acid to alcohol). Comparatively, the biocatalysts were slightly deactivated under microwave irradiation due to enzyme denaturalisation. Biocatalyst reuse was attempted to prove that good reusability of these sol-gel immobilised enzymes could be achieved under conventional heating.
Histological Studies of Mycorrhized Roots and Mycorrhizal-Like-Structures in Pine Roots
Authors: Ragonezi Carla , Zavattieri Maria Amely
Published: September 2018

Several studies have shown the potential of using Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi in conifer micropropagation to overcome the cessation of adventitious root development. In vitro inoculation promotes the re-growth of the root system induced previously by auxin treatments, facilitating acclimation and diminishing the losses of plants because of a weak root system that is incapable of water and nutrient absorption. During a series of mycorrhization experiments, cryostat and ultrafine cuts were used to study the morpho-histological transformation of the symbiotic roots. To obtain cryostat cuts from pine roots a method frequently used for animal tissue was adopted. Molecular methods allowed fungi identification in all the mycorrhization phases and in the acclimation of derived plants. Mycorrhizal-like-structures derived from in vitro culture and axenic liquid cultures of roots were microscopically analyzed and compare with mycorrhizal roots.