bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Forchlorfenuron on the Morphology, Metabolite Accumulation, and Transcriptional Responses of Siraitia grosvenorii Fruit
Authors: Shi Hongwu , Liao Jingjing , Cui Shengrong , Luo Zuliang , Ma Xiaojun
Published: November 2019

Siraitia grosvenorii fruit, called luo-han-guo (LHG), have been used as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and dietary supplements for many years. Mogrosides, the main bioactive ingredients in LHG, are commercially available worldwide as a non-sugar-based and noncaloric sweetener. However, the production cannot meet the increasing market demand because of the low content of mogrosides and the small size of LHG. Therefore, some advanced technologies have been applied for improving the quality of LHG. Forchlorfenuron (CPPU), a plant growth regulator, is widely applied to promote plant yield and the secondary metabolite synthesis. Here, the content of nine mogrosides and three intermediates in LHG that were treated with three different concentrations of CPPU were determined by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS, respectively. The total content of mogrosides in LHG treated with CPPU was not enhanced, and the proportion of some main bioactive ingredients, including mogroside V (MV), were decreased relative to that of the control treatment. Morphological and cytological observations showed CPPU could make an early lignification in fruit epidermal cells, and 5 or 25 mg L−1 CPPU could inhibit LHG growth. The expression levels of 24 key genes in the mogroside biosynthesis pathway were measured and revealed that genes downregulated in upstream, and different expressions of SgUGTs would affect the accumulations and proportions of mogrosides in LHG induced by CPPU. This was the first study that applied CPPU individually on LHG, and assessed effects of CPPU on the morphology, the accumulation of metabolites, and expression profiles of 24 structural genes. The CPPU effects on LHG were undesirable, including development inhibition and the decrease of main mogroside content. These will provide guidance for the rational application of CPPU.
Synthesis, Structure and In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Novel Cinchona—Chalcone Hybrids with 1,4-Disubstituted- and 1,5-Disubstituted 1,2,3-Triazole Linkers
Authors: Jernei Tamás , Duró Cintia , Dembo Antonio , Lajkó Eszter , Takács Angéla , Kőhidai László , Schlosser Gitta , Csámpai Antal
Published: November 2019

By means of copper(I)-and ruthenium(II)-catalyzed click reactions of quinine- and quinidine-derived alkynes with azide-substituted chalcones a systematic series of novel cinchona-chalcone hybrid compounds, containing 1,4-disubstituted- and 1,5-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole linkers, were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity on four human malignant cell lines (PANC-1, COLO-205, A2058 and EBC-1). In most cases, the cyclization reactions were accompanied by the transition-metal-catalyzed epimerization of the C9-stereogenic centre in the cinchona fragment. The results of the in vitro assays disclosed that all the prepared hybrids exhibit marked cytotoxicity in concentrations of low micromolar range, while the C9-epimerized model comprising quinidine- and (E)-1-(4-(3-oxo-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)prop-1-en-1-yl)phenyl) fragments, connected by 1,5-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole linker, and can be regarded as the most potent lead of which activity is probably associated with a limited conformational space allowing for the adoption of a relatively rigid well-defined conformation identified by DFT modelling. The mechanism of action of this hybrid along with that of a model with markedly decreased activity were approached by comparative cell-cycle analyses in PANC-1 cells. These studies disclosed that the hybrid of enhanced antiproliferative activity exerts significantly more extensive inhibitory effects in subG1, S and G2/M phases than does the less cytotoxic counterpart.
Transformation of Psoralen and Isopsoralen by Human Intestinal Microbial In Vitro, and the Biological Activities of Its Metabolites
Authors: Liu Lu , Zhang Lei , Cui Ze-Xu , Liu Xiao-Yan , Xu Wei , Yang Xiu-Wei
Published: November 2019

Psoralen (P) and isopsoralen (IP) are the main active ingredients in the dried fruit of Psoralen corylifolia L. (PC), with a wide range of pharmacology activities. The intestinal bacteria biotransformation plays a central role in the metabolism of the complex ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Our study aimed to investigated the metabolic profile of P and IP in the intestinal condition, co-cultured with human fecal bacteria anaerobically. Four bio-transforming products were obtained, including 6,7-furano-hydrocoumaric acid (P-1) and 6,7-furano-hydro- coumaric acid methyl ester (P-2), which transformed from P, and 5,6-furano-hydrocoumaric acid (IP-1) and 5,6-furano-hydrocoumaric acid methyl ester (IP-2), which were transformed from IP. It is worth mentioning that IP-2 is a new compound that has not been published. Their structures were analyzed based on their spectroscopic data. Moreover, a highly sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was used to characterize the metabolic pathways of P, IP, and their bio-transforming products in the reaction samples. In addition, the dampening effects against the oxidative stress of P, IP, and their bio-transforming products by human intestinal flora were estimated in vitro via the human colorectal cells (HCT116) and heterogeneous human epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) cell lines. The results showed that the metabolites have stronger activity than P and IP, which possibly provides a basis for elucidating the treating mechanisms of PC extract against inflammatory bowel disease.
Single-Step Synthesis of Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Forest on Aluminium Foils
Authors: Nassoy Fabien , Pinault Mathieu , Descarpentries Jérémie , Vignal Thomas , Banet Philippe , Coulon Pierre-Eugène , Goislard de Monsabert Thomas , Hauf Harald , Aubert Pierre-Henri , Reynaud Cécile , Mayne-L’Hermite Martine
Published: November 2019

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) forests are promising for supercapacitor electrodes, but their industrialisation requires a large-scale cost-effective synthesis process suitable to commercial aluminium (Al) foils, namely by operating at a low temperature (<660 °C). We show that Aerosol-Assisted Catalytic Chemical Vapour Deposition (CCVD), a single-step roll-to-roll compatible process, can be optimised to meet this industrial requirement. With ferrocene as a catalyst precursor, acetylene as a carbon source and Ar/H2 as a carrier gas, clean and dense forests of VACNTs of about 10 nm in diameter are obtained at 615 °C with a growth rate up to 5 µm/min. Such novel potentiality of this one-step CCVD process is at the state-of-the-art of the multi-step assisted CCVD processes. To produce thick samples, long synthesis durations are required, but growth saturation occurs that is not associated with a diffusion phenomenon of iron in aluminium substrate. Sequential syntheses show that the saturation trend fits a model of catalytic nanoparticle deactivation that can be limited by decreasing acetylene flow, thus obtaining sample thickness up to 200 µm. Cyclic voltammetry measurements on binder-free VACNT/Al electrodes show that the CNT surface is fully accessible to the ionic liquid electrolyte, even in these dense VACNT forests.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Co3O4/ZnO Hybrid Nanoparticles for Triethylamine Detection
Authors: Yang Yanqiong , Wang Xiaodong , Yi Guiyun , Li Huimin , Shi Chuang , Sun Guang , Zhang Zhanying
Published: November 2019

Development of high performances gas sensors to monitor and detect the volatile organic compound triethylamine is of paramount importance for health and environmental protection. The Co3O4-ZnO nanoparticles composite was successfully synthesized by the one-step hydrothermal route and annealing process in this work. The gas sensitivity test results show that the composite exhibits excellent triethylamine-sensing performance at a cobalt content of 1 at%, indicating potential application for triethylamine detection. The sensor based on the Co3O4-ZnO composite had higher sensitivity to triethylamine, better selectivity, and faster response recovery rate compared with pure ZnO sensor. Combined with the structural characteristics of the characterized Co3O4-ZnO nanocomposite, the optimized triethylamine sensing performances can be ascribed to the p-n heterojunction effect between Co3O4 and ZnO, as well as the catalytic and high oxygen adsorption properties of Co3O4.
Two-Step Solvothermal Synthesis of (Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4/Mn0.5Ni0.5Fe2O4)@C-MWCNTs Hybrid with Enhanced Low Frequency Microwave Absorbing Performance
Authors: Yin Pengfei , Zhang Limin , Wu Hongjing , Feng Xing , Wang Jian , Rao Hanbing , Wang Yanying , Dai Jianwu , Tang Yuting
Published: November 2019

In this study, the quaternary hybrid of (Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4/Mn0.5Ni0.5Fe2O4)@C-MWCNTs with high-performance in low frequency electromagnetic absorption was synthesized via a facile two-step solvothermal synthesis method. The physicochemical properties as well as electromagnetic parameters and microwave absorption performance were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, RS, TGA, and VNA, respectively. The results indicate a nuclear-shell morphology of this hybrid for amorphous carbon coated on the surface of Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 and Mn0.5Ni0.5Fe2O4 mixed polycrystalline ferrites. In addition, the MWCNTs synchronously enwind in the nuclear-shell NPs to form a special cross-linking structure. The outstanding low frequency microwave absorption property is attributed to the synergistic effect of dielectric and magnetic loss, better impedance matching condition, and excellent attenuation characteristics of the as-prepared paramagnetic quaternary hybrid. Maximum RL of −35.14 dB at 0.56 GHz with an effective absorption bandwidth in the range of 0.27–1.01 GHz can be obtained with thickness of 5 mm. This hybrid exhibits superior low frequency microwave absorption properties compared with other ferrite-carbon nanocomposites. This investigation provides a new route to prepare suitable candidates for the absorption of electromagnetic waves in a low frequency band on account of its good performance and simple preparation process.
Improving Photocatalytic Degradation Activity of Organic Pollutant by Sn4+ Doping of Anatase TiO2 Hierarchical Nanospheres with Dominant {001} Facets
Authors: Sun Meiling , Kong Weichong , Zhao Yunlong , Liu Xiaolin , Xuan Jingyue , Liu Yunyan , Jia Fuchao , Yin Guangchao , Wang Jun , Zhang Junkai
Published: November 2019

Herein, high-energy {001} facets and Sn4+ doping have been demonstrated to be effective strategies to improve the surface characteristics, photon absorption, and charge transport of TiO2 hierarchical nanospheres, thereby improving their photocatalytic performance. The TiO2 hierarchical nanospheres under different reaction times were prepared by solvothermal method. The TiO2 hierarchical nanospheres (24 h) expose the largest area of {001} facets, which is conducive to increase the density of surface active sites to degrade the adsorbed methylene blue (MB), enhance light scattering ability to absorb more incident photons, and finally, improve photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the SnxTi1−xO2 (STO) hierarchical nanospheres are fabricated by Sn4+ doping, in which the Sn4+ doping energy level and surface hydroxyl group are beneficial to broaden the light absorption range, promote the generation of charge carriers, and retard the recombination of electron–hole pairs, thereby increasing the probability of charge carriers participating in photocatalytic reactions. Compared with TiO2 hierarchical nanospheres (24 h), the STO hierarchical nanospheres with 5% nSn/nTi molar ratio exhibit a 1.84-fold improvement in photodegradation of MB arising from the enhanced light absorption ability, increased number of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, and prolonged charge carrier lifetime. In addition, the detailed mechanisms are also discussed in the present paper.
Low Calorie Sweeteners Differ in Their Physiological Effects in Humans
Authors: Hunter Stephanie R. , Reister Evan J. , Cheon Eunjin , Mattes Richard D.
Published: November 2019

Low calorie sweeteners (LCS) are prevalent in the food supply for their primary functional property of providing sweetness with little or no energy. Though tested for safety individually, there has been extremely limited work on the efficacy of each LCS. It is commonly assumed all LCS act similarly in their behavioral and physiological effects. However, each LCS has its own chemical structure that influences its metabolism, making each LCS unique in its potential effects on body weight, energy intake, and appetite. LCS may have different behavioral and physiological effects mediated at the sweet taste receptor, in brain activation, with gut hormones, at the microbiota and on appetitive responses. Further elucidation of the unique effects of the different commercially available LCS may hold important implications for recommendations about their use for different health outcomes.
Lentinus edodes Exposure before and after Fetus Implantation: Materno-Fetal Development in Rats with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Laurino Leticia , Viroel Fabia , Caetano Erika , Spim Sara , Pickler Thaisa , Rosa-Castro Raquel , Vasconcelos Edilma , Jozala Angela , Hataka Alessandre , Grotto Denise , Gerenutti Marli
Published: November 2019

Background: The presence of β-glucans and phenolic compounds in Lentinus edodes suggests this mushroom can be used as a nutritional supplement. Two gestational conditions (before and after fetus implantation) were evaluated, and Lentinus edodes exposure was performed in diabetes mellitus rat model induced by streptozotocin in pre-clinical tests. Methods: On the 20th day of pregnancy, cesarean sections were performed. Blood was collected for biochemical, hematologic parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers. Placenta and amniotic fluid were collected, and fetuses were analyzed through morphological evaluation. Results: The mushroom did not reduce the severe hyperglycemia of the mother-concept but promoted an increase in maternal insulin levels; reduced the levels of alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase, triglyceride and total cholesterol; protected the animals from post-implantation losses. Liver damage induced by streptozotocin was reversed in experimental groups. Conclusions: Lentinus edodes mushroom has antioxidant properties that can minimize the damage caused by gestational diabetes mellitus.
β2 Adrenergic Regulation of the Phagocytic and Microbicide Capacity of Macrophages from Obese and Lean Mice: Effects of Exercise
Authors: Martín-Cordero Leticia , Gálvez Isabel , Hinchado María Dolores , Ortega Eduardo
Published: November 2019

Macrophages are crucial in the inflammation associated with obesity. Exercise is the main non-pharmacological strategy against obesity, not only for improving metabolic impairment, but also because of its anti-inflammatory effects, particularly those mediated by β2 adrenergic receptors (β2-AR). Nevertheless, these anti-inflammatory effects could immunocompromise the innate response against pathogen challenge. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of obesity, and of exercise in this condition, on the β2 adrenergic regulation of the innate function of macrophages. High fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mice were used to evaluate the effects of acute and regular exercise on the phagocytic and microbicide capacities of peritoneal macrophages. Selective β2-AR agonist terbutaline (1 µM) decreased the phagocytic and microbicide activities of macrophages from control lean and obese sedentary animals. While acute exercise did not modify the inhibitory capacity of terbutaline, regular exercise abolished this inhibitory effect. These effects cannot be explained only by changes in the surface expression of β2-AR. In conclusion, (1) obesity does not alter the β2-AR-mediated decrease of the innate response of macrophages and (2) regular exercise can revert the inhibitory effect of terbutaline on the phagocytic activity of macrophages, although obesity seems to hinder this immunophysiological adaptation.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Caesarean Section and its Impact on Early Initiation of Breastfeeding in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Taha Zainab , Ali Hassan Ahmed , Wikkeling-Scott Ludmilla , Papandreou Dimitrios
Published: November 2019

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the early initiation of breastfeeding. Research shows that factors such as mode of delivery may interfere with the early initiation of breastfeeding. However, data in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on these findings is limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of caesarean sections (CSs) and evaluate their effect on breastfeeding initiation among mothers of children under the age of two years in Abu Dhabi. Data were collected in clinical and non-clinical settings across various geographical areas in Abu Dhabi during 2017 using consent and structured questionnaires for interviews with mothers. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics. Among the 1624 participants, one-third (30.2%) reportedly delivered by CS, of which 71.1% were planned, while 28.9% were emergency CS. More than half of all mothers (62.5%) initiated early breastfeeding. Multivariable logistic regression indicated factors that were associated positively with CS included advanced maternal age, nationality, and obesity. However, gestational age (GA) was negatively associated with CS. This study shows that the prevalence of CS is high in Abu Dhabi, UAE. CS is associated with lower early initiation rates of breastfeeding. The early initiation rates of breastfeeding were 804 (79.2%) 95% confidence interval (CI) (76.4, 82.0), 162 (16.0%) 95% CI (10.4, 21.6), and 49 (4.8%) 95% CI (1.2, 10.8) among vaginal delivery, planned CS, and emergency CS, respectively. Regarding the mode of delivery, vaginal were 2.78 (Adjusted Odd Ratio (AOR)): CI (95%), (2.17–3.56, p < 0.001) times more likely related to an early initiation of breastfeeding. CS in general, and emergency CS, was the main risk factor for the delayed initiation of breastfeeding. The study provides valuable information to develop appropriate strategies to reduce the CS rate in UAE. Maternal literacy on CS choices, the importance of breastfeeding for child health, and additional guidance for mothers and their families are necessary to achieve better breastfeeding outcomes.
Z-ajoene from Crushed Garlic Alleviates Cancer-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Lee Hyejin , Heo Ji-Won , Kim A-Reum , Kweon Minson , Nam Sorim , Lim Jong-Seok , Sung Mi-Kyung , Kim Sung-Eun , Ryu Jae-Ha
Published: November 2019

Skeletal muscle atrophy is one of the major symptoms of cancer cachexia. Garlic (Allium sativum), one of the world’s most commonly used and versatile herbs, has been employed for the prevention and treatment of diverse diseases for centuries. In the present study, we found that ajoene, a sulfur compound found in crushed garlic, exhibits protective effects against muscle atrophy. Using CT26 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice, we demonstrate in vivo that ajoene extract alleviated muscle degradation by decreasing not only myokines secretion but also janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) and SMADs/forkhead box (FoxO) signaling pathways, thereby suppressing muscle-specific E3 ligases. In mouse skeletal myoblasts, Z-ajoene enhanced myogenesis as evidenced by increased expression of myogenic markers via p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. In mature myotubes, Z-ajoene protected against muscle protein degradation induced by conditioned media from CT26 colon carcinoma cells, by suppressing expression of muscle specific E3 ligases and nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB) phosphorylation which contribute to muscle atrophy. Moreover, Z-ajoene treatment improved myofiber formation via stimulation of muscle protein synthesis. These findings suggest that ajoene extract and Z-ajoene can attenuate skeletal muscle atrophy induced by cancer cachexia through suppressing inflammatory responses and the muscle wasting as well as by promoting muscle protein synthesis.
Childhood Disability and Nutrition: Findings from a Population-Based Case Control Study in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Israt , Karim Tasneem , Al Imam Mahmudul Hassan , Das Manik Chandra , Ali Khaled Mohammad , Muhit Mohammad , Khandaker Gulam
Published: November 2019

Background: Evidence regarding the complex relationship between childhood disability and malnutrition is limited in low and middle income countries. We aimed to measure the association between childhood disability and malnutrition in rural Bangladesh. Method: We conducted a population-based case control study among children aged <18 years in a rural sub-district (i.e., Shahjadpur) in Bangladesh. Children with permanent disability (i.e., Cases) and their age/sex-matched peers (i.e., Controls) were identified from the local community utilizing the key informant method. Socioeconomic, anthropometric, and educational information was collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Only Cases underwent detailed medical assessment for clinical and rehabilitation information. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed. Results: Between October 2017 and February 2018, 1274 Cases and 1303 Controls were assessed. Cases had 6.6 times and 11.8 times higher odds of being severely underweight and severely stunted respectively than Controls. Although epileptic children had the highest overall prevalence of malnutrition, the age/sex-adjusted odds of malnutrition were significantly higher among children with physical impairments. Underweight and/or stunting among children with disability was significantly associated with parental educational qualification, socioeconomic status and mainstream school attendance. Conclusion: The significantly high proportion of severe malnutrition among children with disability calls for urgent action and implementation of inclusive nutrition intervention programs in rural Bangladesh.
Do Consumers Care about Nutrition and Health Claims? Some Evidence from Italy
Authors: Annunziata Azzurra , Mariani Angela
Published: November 2019

This study investigates Italian consumer knowledge and use of nutrition and health claims (NHCs). Six specific claims are examined on the basis of a web survey carried out on a sample of 504 consumers. Our results show that there is little attention to NHCs and their use is not widespread; objective knowledge of the selected claims is fairly scant, generating misinterpretation and confusion about their real meaning. K-means cluster analysis allowed us to identify three segments of consumers, characterized by different levels in attention and use frequency of NHCs, with a specific profile in terms of motivation and nutritional knowledge. Our results suggest the advisability of policy interventions and communication efforts which target the three segments with a view to achieving greater attention to NHCs. In conclusion, to boost knowledge concerning the actual meaning of the claims and their relation with a healthy diet, especially to reach non-users, information should be provided both simply and clearly, avoiding the use of complex scientific terminology.
Resistance Sources to Brown Blotch Disease (Pseudomonas tolaasii) in a Diverse Collection of Pleurotus Mushroom Strains
Authors: Azu Okorley Benjamin , Leo Sossah Frederick , Dai Dan , Xu Shuai , Liu Zhenghui , Song Bing , Sheng Hongyan , Fu Yongping , Li Yu
Published: November 2019

Brown blotch disease (BBD) caused by Pseudomonas tolaasii is one of the most devastating diseases of Pleurotus spp. worldwide. Breeding for resistant strains is the most effective method for controlling BBD. To identify resistant germplasm for BBD management, 97 strains comprising 21 P. cf. floridanus, 20 P. ostreatus, and 56 P. pulmonarius were screened by two different methods; namely, inoculation of the pathogen on the mushroom pileus (IMP) and on the spawned substrate (IMSS) under controlled conditions. Out of the 97 strains screened, 22 P. pulmonarius, and four P. cf. floridanus were moderately resistant to BBD using the IMP method. Eleven P. pulmonarius, six P. cf. florida, and one P. ostreatus strains were highly resistant to BBD using the IMSS method. All of the 97 strains showed varying degrees of susceptibility using the IMP method, but eight strains were completely resistant using the IMSS method. Combining these two methods, five strains were highly resistant (four P. pulmonarius and one P. cf. floridanus) and 11 were moderately resistant (eight P. pulmonarius and three P. cf. floridanus). The resistance sources to P. tolaasii identified in P. pulmonarius and P. cf. floridanus could be used for further breeding of Pleurotus spp.
A Single and Un-Adjuvanted Dose of a Chimpanzee Adenovirus-Vectored Vaccine against Chikungunya Virus Fully Protects Mice from Lethal Disease
Authors: Campos Rafael Kroon , Preciado-Llanes Lorena , Azar Sasha R. , Lopez-Camacho Cesar , Reyes-Sandoval Arturo , Rossi Shannan L.
Published: November 2019

The mosquito-borne chikungunya virus (CHIKV) has become a major global health problem. Upon infection, chikungunya fever (CHIKF) can result in long-term joint pain and arthritis, and despite intense research, no licensed vaccine for CHIKV is available. We have developed two recombinant chimpanzee adenovirus-vectored vaccines (ChAdOx1) that induce swift and robust anti-CHIKV immune responses with a single dose, without the need for adjuvants or booster vaccines. Here, we report the vaccines’ protective efficacies against CHIKV infection in a lethal A129 mouse model. Our results indicate that a single, un-adjuvanted ChAdOx1 Chik or ChAdOx1 Chik ΔCap dose provided complete protection against a lethal virus challenge and prevented CHIKV-associated severe inflammation. These candidate vaccines supported survival equal to the attenuated 181/25 CHIKV reference vaccine but without the vaccine-related side effects, such as weight loss. Vaccination with either ChAdOx1 Chik or ChAdOx1 Chik ΔCap resulted in high titers of neutralizing antibodies that are associated with protection, indicating that the presence of the capsid within the vaccine construct may not be essential to afford protection under the conditions tested. We conclude that both replication-deficient ChAdOx1 Chik vaccines are safe even when used in A129 mice and afford complete protection from a lethal challenge.
Preparation and In Vitro Evaluation of Neutron-Activated, Theranostic Samarium-153-Labeled Microspheres for Transarterial Radioembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Liver Metastasis
Authors: Wong Yin How , Tan Hun Yee , Kasbollah Azahari , Abdullah Basri Johan Jeet , Yeong Chai Hong
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) has been proven as an effective treatment for unresectable liver tumor. In this study, neutron activated, 153Sm-labeled microspheres were developed as an alternative to 90Y-labeled microspheres for hepatic radioembolization. 153Sm has a theranostic advantage as it emits both therapeutic beta and diagnostic gamma radiations simultaneously, in comparison to the pure beta emitter, 90Y. Methods: Negatively charged acrylic microspheres were labeled with 152Sm ions through electrostatic interactions. In another formulation, the Sm-labeled microsphere was treated with sodium carbonate solution to form the insoluble 152Sm carbonate (152SmC) salt within the porous structures of the microspheres. Both formulations were neutron-activated in a research reactor. Physicochemical characterization, gamma spectrometry, and radiolabel stability tests were carried out to study the performance and stability of the microspheres. Results: The Sm- and SmC-labeled microspheres remained spherical and smooth, with a mean size of 35 µm before and after neutron activation. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated that the functional groups of the microspheres remained unaffected after neutron activation. The 153Sm- and 153SmC-labeled microspheres achieved activity of 2.53 ± 0.08 and 2.40 ± 0.13 GBq·g−1, respectively, immediate after 6 h neutron activation in the neutron flux of 2.0 × 1012 n·cm−2·s−1. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) and gamma spectrometry showed that no elemental and radioactive impurities were present in the microspheres after neutron activation. The retention efficiency of 153Sm in the 153SmC-labeled microspheres was excellent (~99% in distilled water and saline; ~97% in human blood plasma), which was higher than the 153Sm-labeled microspheres (~95% and ~85%, respectively). Conclusion: 153SmC-labeled microspheres have demonstrated excellent properties for potential application as theranostic agents for hepatic radioembolization.
Polyphenol Profile and Pharmaceutical Potential of Quercus spp. Bark Extracts
Authors: O. Elansary Hosam , Szopa Agnieszka , Kubica Paweł , Ekiert Halina , A. Mattar Mohamed , Al-Yafrasi Mohamed A. , El-Ansary Diaa O. , Zin El-Abedin Tarek K. , Yessoufou Kowiyou
Published: November 2019

Targeted profiling of polyphenols in trees may reveal valuable sources of natural compounds with major applications in pharmacology and disease control. The current study targeted the profiling of polyphenols using HPLC-DAD in Quercus robur, Q. macrocarpa and Q. acutissima bark extracts. Free radical scavenging of each extract was investigated using antioxidant assays. Antimicrobial activities against a wide spectrum of bacteria and fungi were explored, as well as anticancer activities against different cancer cell lines. The HPLC-DAD analyses revealed the availability of several polyphenols in high amounts, including ellagic acid (in Q. robur) and caffeic acid (in Q. macrocarpa) in all three species. The bioactivity assay revealed high antioxidant activity in Q. robur compared to that of the other species, as well as phenolic standards. The three oak bark extracts showed clear antibacterial activities against most bacteria tested, with the highest antibacterial activities in the extracts of Q. robur. In addition, the three extracts showed higher antibacterial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Micrococcus flavus, and Escherichia coli compared to that of other bacteria. There were strong antifungal activities against some fungi, such as Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium funiculosum, and Penicillium ochrochloron. There were also noticeable anticancer activities against MCF-7, HeLa, Jurkat, and HT-29 cell lines, with the highest anticancer activity in the extracts of Q. robur. This is the first study that reveals not only novel sources of important polyphenols (e.g., ellagic acid) in Q. robur, Q. macrocarpa and Q. acutissima bark but also their anticancer activities against diverse cancer cell lines.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis Reveals Key Proteins Linked to the Accumulation of Soluble Sugars and Organic Acids in the Mature Fruits of the Wild Malus Species
Authors: Ma Baiquan , Ding Yuduan , Li Cuiying , Li Mingjun , Ma Fengwang , Yuan Yangyang
Published: November 2019

Soluble sugars and organic acids are the main determinants of fruit organoleptic quality. To investigate the genes responsible for the soluble sugar and organic acid contents of apple fruits, a label-free proteomic analysis involving liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS)/MS was conducted with the fruits of two Malus species, M. sargentii and M. niedzwetzkyana, which exhibit significant differences in soluble sugar and organic acid contents. A total of 13,036 unique peptides and 1,079 differentially-expressed proteins were identified. To verify the LC-MS/MS results, five candidate proteins were further analyzed by parallel reaction monitoring. The results were consistent with the LC-MS/MS data, which confirmed the reliability of the LC-MS/MS analysis. The functional annotation of the differentially-expressed proteins, based on the gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases, revealed that they were mainly related to biological processes and cellular components. Additionally, the main enriched KEGG pathways were related to metabolic processes. Moreover, 31 proteins involved in soluble sugar metabolism, organic acid metabolism, and H+-transport were identified. The results of this study may be useful for the comprehensive characterization of the complex mechanism regulating apple fruit-soluble sugar and organic acid contents.
Synergistic Charring Flame-Retardant Behavior of Polyimide and Melamine Polyphosphate in Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polyamide 66
Authors: Tang Wei , Cao Yanfang , Qian Lijun , Chen Yajun , Qiu Yong , Xu Bo , Xin Fei
Published: November 2019

The synergistic charring, flame-retardant behavior of the macromolecular charring agents polyimide (PI) and melamine polyphosphate (MPP) were studied in glass fiber-reinforced polyamide 66 (PA66). This kind of synergistic charring effect is explained by the fact that PI performed better char-forming ability while working with phosphorus content. The research results showed that, compared with the incorporation of individual MPP, MPP/PI with an appropriate ratio exhibited better flame retardancy and better charring ability. A blend of 11.9%MPP/5.1%PI/PA66 possessed an increased LOI (limiting oxygen index) value of 33.9% and passed the UL94 V-0 rating, obtained a lower peak heat release rate value (pk-HRR), a lower total heat release (THR) value, a lower total smoke release (TSR) value, and a higher residue yield. The results verified the synergistic flame-retardant effect between MPP and PI in the PA66 composite. Melamine polyphosphate and PI jointly interacted with PA66 matrix and locked more carbonaceous compositions in residue and formed a more compact char layer, resulting in a reduced burning intensity and a reduction in the release of fuels. Therefore, the enhanced flame-retardant effect of the MPP/PI system is attributed to the higher charring ability and stronger barrier effect of the char layer in PA66 in the condensed phase.
Recent Progress in Carbon-Based Buffer Layers for Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Nguyen Thang Phan , Nguyen Dang Le Tri , Nguyen Van-Huy , Le Thu-Ha , Vo Dai-Viet N. , Ly Quang Viet , Kim Soo Young , Le Quyet Van
Published: November 2019

Carbon-based materials are promising candidates as charge transport layers in various optoelectronic devices and have been applied to enhance the performance and stability of such devices. In this paper, we provide an overview of the most contemporary strategies that use carbon-based materials including graphene, graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, carbon quantum dots, and graphitic carbon nitride as buffer layers in polymer solar cells (PSCs). The crucial parameters that regulate the performance of carbon-based buffer layers are highlighted and discussed in detail. Furthermore, the performances of recently developed carbon-based materials as hole and electron transport layers in PSCs compared with those of commercially available hole/electron transport layers are evaluated. Finally, we elaborate on the remaining challenges and future directions for the development of carbon-based buffer layers to achieve high-efficiency and high-stability PSCs.
Einstein’s E = mc2 Derivable from Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Relations
Authors: Başkal Sibel , Kim Young S. , Noz Marilyn E.
Published: November 2019

Heisenberg’s uncertainty relation can be written in terms of the step-up and step-down operators in the harmonic oscillator representation. It is noted that the single-variable Heisenberg commutation relation contains the symmetry of the S p ( 2 ) group which is isomorphic to the Lorentz group applicable to one time-like dimension and two space-like dimensions, known as the O ( 2 , 1 ) group. This group has three independent generators. The one-dimensional step-up and step-down operators can be combined into one two-by-two Hermitian matrix which contains three independent operators. If we use a two-variable Heisenberg commutation relation, the two pairs of independent step-up, step-down operators can be combined into a four-by-four block-diagonal Hermitian matrix with six independent parameters. It is then possible to add one off-diagonal two-by-two matrix and its Hermitian conjugate to complete the four-by-four Hermitian matrix. This off-diagonal matrix has four independent generators. There are thus ten independent generators. It is then shown that these ten generators can be linearly combined to the ten generators for Dirac’s two oscillator system leading to the group isomorphic to the de Sitter group O ( 3 , 2 ) , which can then be contracted to the inhomogeneous Lorentz group with four translation generators corresponding to the four-momentum in the Lorentz-covariant world. This Lorentz-covariant four-momentum is known as Einstein’s E = m c 2 .
“What I’ve Seen with Your Eyes”: Relational Theology and Ways of Seeing in Blade Runner
Authors: Schade Leah D. , Askew Emily
Published: November 2019

This paper examines the theme of relational theology in the Blade Runner science fiction franchise by exploring the symbolism of eyes and sight in the films. Using the work of ecofeminist theologian Sallie McFague, we explore the contrast between the arrogant, detached eye of surveillance (what we call the “gods’ eye view”) which interprets the other-than-human world as instrumental object, and the possibility of the loving eye of awareness and attention (the “God’s eye view”) which views the other-than-human world as an equal subject with intrinsic value. How the films wrestle with what is “real” and how the other-than-human is regarded has implications for our present time as we face enormous upheavals due to climate disruption and migration and the accompanying justice issues therein. We make the case that the films are extended metaphors that provide a window on our own dystopian present which present us with choices as to how we will see the world and respond to the ecological and humanitarian crises already upon us.
Evaluation of Incident Light Sensors on Unmanned Aircraft for Calculation of Spectral Reflectance
Authors: Hunt E. Raymond , Stern Alan J.
Published: November 2019

Including incident light sensors (ILS) with multispectral sensors is an important development for agricultural remote sensing because spectral reflectances are necessary for accurate determination of plant biophysical variables such as leaf area index and leaf chlorophyll content. Effects of different aircraft flight conditions on accuracy of surface reflectances retrieved using an ILS are not known. The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of ILS orientation with respect to sun and aircraft altitude. A Tetracam Miniature Multiple Camera Array (Mini-MCA) was mounted on a fixed-wing unmanned aircraft system (UAS) with the ILS mounted on top of the aircraft’s fuselage. On two dates the aircraft flew over six 50-ha agricultural fields with center-pivot irrigation at three different altitudes (450, 650 and 1800 m above ground level (AGL)). Ground reflectances were estimated using atmospherically corrected Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager data acquired at or near the time of the aircraft overflights. Because the aircraft had a positive pitch during flight, the ILS pointed opposite to the flight direction. The first date had flight lines closely oriented towards and away from the sun. The second date had flight lines oriented perpendicularly to the solar azimuth. On the first date, red and near-infrared (NIR) reflectances were significantly higher when the ILS was oriented away from the sun, whereas ILS orientation had little effect on the second date. For both dates, red and near-infrared reflectances were significantly greater at 450 m compared to 1800 m. Both the effects of ILS orientation and flight altitude are correctable during image processing because the physical basis is well known.
Purifying SLIC Superpixels to Optimize Superpixel-Based Classification of High Spatial Resolution Remote Sensing Image
Authors: Tong Hengjian , Tong Fei , Zhou Wei , Zhang Yun
Published: November 2019

Fast and accurate classification of high spatial resolution remote sensing image is important for many applications. The usage of superpixels in classification has been proposed to accelerate the speed of classification. However, although most superpixels only contain pixels from single class, there are still some mixed superpixels, which mostly locate near the edge of different classes, and contain pixels from more than one class. Such mixed superpixels will cause misclassification regardless of classification methods used. In this paper, a superpixels purification algorithm based on color quantization is proposed to purify mixed Simple Linear Iterative Clustering (SLIC) superpixels. After purifying, the mixed SLIC superpixel will be separated into smaller superpixels. These smaller superpixels are pure superpixels which only contain a single kind of ground object. The experiments on images from the dataset BSDS500 show that the purified SLIC superpixels outperform the original SLIC superpixels on three segmentation evaluation metrics. With the purified SLIC superpixels, a classification scheme in which only edge superpixels are selected to be purified is proposed. The strategy of purifying edge superpixels not only improves the efficiency of the algorithm, but also improves the accuracy of the classification. The experiments on a remote sensing image from WorldView-2 satellite demonstrate that purified SLIC superpixels at all scales can generate classification result with higher accuracy than original SLIC superpixels, especially at the scale of 20 × 20 , for which the accuracy increase is higher than 4%.
Application of DInSAR-PSI Technology for Deformation Monitoring of the Mosul Dam, Iraq
Authors: Othman Arsalan Ahmed , Al- Maamar Ahmed F. , Al-Manmi Diary Ali Mohammed , Liesenberg Veraldo , Hasan Syed E. , Al-Saady Younus I. , Shihab Ahmed T. , Khwedim Kareem
Published: November 2019

On-going monitoring of deformation of dams is critical to assure their safe and efficient operation. Traditional monitoring methods, based on in-situ sensors measurements on the dam, have some limitations in spatial coverage, observation frequency, and cost. This paper describes the potential use of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) scenes from Sentinel-1A for characterizing deformations at the Mosul Dam (MD) in NW Iraq. Seventy-eight Single Look Complex (SLC) scenes in ascending geometry from the Sentinel-1A scenes, acquired from 03 October 2014 to 27 June 2019, and 96 points within the MD structure, were selected to determine the deformation rate using persistent scatterer interferometry (PSI). Maximum deformation velocity was found to be about 7.4 mm·yr−1 at a longitudinal subsidence area extending over a length of 222 m along the dam axis. The mean subsidence velocity in this area is about 6.27 mm·yr−1 and lies in the center of MD. Subsidence rate shows an inverse relationship with the reservoir water level. It also shows a strong correlation with grouting episodes. Variations in the deformation rate within the same year are most probably due to increased hydrostatic stress which was caused by water storage in the dam that resulted in an increase in solubility of gypsum beds, creating voids and localized collapses underneath the dam. PSI information derived from Sentinel-1A proved to be a good tool for monitoring dam deformation with good accuracy, yielding results that can be used in engineering applications and also risk management.
Radiometric Variations of On-Orbit FORMOSAT-5 RSI from Vicarious and Cross-Calibration Measurements
Authors: Lin Tang-Huang , Chang Jui-Chung , Hsu Kuo-Hsien , Lee Yun-Shan , Zeng Sheng-Kai , Liu Gin-Rong , Tsai Fu-An , Chan Hai-Po
Published: November 2019

A new Taiwanese satellite, FORMOSAT-5 (FS-5), with a payload remote sensing instrument (RSI) was launched in August 2017 to continue the mission of its predecessor FORMOSAT-2 (FS-2). Similar to FS-2, the RSI provides 2-m resolution panchromatic and 4-m resolution multi-spectral images as the primary payload on FS-5. However, the radiometric properties of the optical sensor may vary, based on the environment and time after being launched into the space. Thus, maintaining the radiometric quality of FS-5 RSI imagery is essential and significant to scientific research and further applications. Therefore, the objective of this study aimed at the on-orbit absolute radiometric assessment and calibration of on-orbit FS-5 RSI observations. Two renowned approaches, vicarious calibrations and cross-calibrations, were conducted at two calibration sites that employ a stable atmosphere and high surface reflectance, namely, Alkali Lake and Railroad Valley Playa in North America. For cross-calibrations, the Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager (LS-8 OLI) was selected as the reference. A second simulation of the satellite signal in the solar spectrum (6S) radiative transfer model was performed to compute the surface reflectance, atmospheric effects, and path radiance for the radiometric intensity at the top of the atmosphere. Results of vicarious calibrations from 11 field experiments demonstrated high consistency with those of seven case examinations of cross-calibration in terms of physical gain in spectra, implying that the practicality of the proposed approaches is high. Moreover, the multi-temporal results illustrated that RSI decay in optical sensitivity was evident after launch. The variation in the calibration coefficient of each band showed no obvious consistency (6%–24%) in 2017, but it tended to be stable at the order of 3%–5% of variation in most spectral bands during 2018. The results strongly suggest that periodical calibration is required and essential for further scientific applications.
Smart Sensing Period for Efficient Energy Consumption in IoT Network
Authors: Kim Woojae , Jung Inbum
Published: November 2019

The devices included in IoT networks have sensors and actuators for monitoring their surroundings. These operate on battery energy, according to the characteristics of the environment in which they are deployed. To enhance the longevity of IoT networks, the devices need to avoid any unnecessary sensing operations in order to reduce the power consumption rate. However, as existing sensing methods use a fixed sensing period policy, battery power wastage is inevitable. In this paper, a smart sensing period policy is proposed for efficient energy consumption in an IoT network. The proposed method uses a learning model based on a back-propagation neural network. Within the target time, it can efficiently use the battery energy without any surplus or wastage in the quantity of preserved battery energy. In experiments, our proposed method shows improved results in battery energy consumption rates compared to the existing sensing period methods.
Minimizing the Risks of Highway Transport of Hazardous Materials
Authors: Goldberg David M. , Hong Sukhwa
Published: November 2019

Many key industrial and scientific processes, such as the generation of nuclear energy, are of enormous social benefit as energy demand and consumption grow over time. However, a drawback of several such processes is the production of hazardous waste materials, which often requires transportation along highway networks to treatment or disposal facilities. This waste can represent a safety hazard to civilians located along the transportation route. Most prior literature in this domain considers risk within only a single facet, and thus several important risk factors may not be considered. In our paper, we propose a multi-objective program to allow for the analysis and selection of minimally risky routes for hazardous materials transportation. The model assesses risk factors including the length of the selected route, the total population in areas surrounding the selected route, and the likelihood of an accident occurring along the selected route. Our paper uniquely uses geographic information systems (GIS) technology to model this optimization problem. This approach allows us to model risk along multiple dimensions simultaneously. We collect empirical data to test the model and present a case study for risk mitigation using a study area located in California. We show that our multi-objective approach is effective in presenting the decision-maker with a portfolio of solutions that perform well via each factor.