bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA Methylation Profiling for Diagnosing Undifferentiated Sarcoma with Capicua Transcriptional Receptor (CIC) Alterations
Authors: Miele Evelina , De Vito Rita , Ciolfi Andrea , Pedace Lucia , Russo Ida , De Pasquale Maria Debora , Di Giannatale Angela , Crocoli Alessandro , Angelis Biagio De , Tartaglia Marco , Alaggio Rita , Milano Giuseppe Maria
Published: March 2020

Undifferentiated soft tissue sarcomas are a group of diagnostically challenging tumors in the pediatric population. Molecular techniques are instrumental for the categorization and differential diagnosis of these tumors. A subgroup of recently identified soft tissue sarcomas with undifferentiated round cell morphology was characterized by Capicua transcriptional receptor (CIC) rearrangements. Recently, an array-based DNA methylation analysis of undifferentiated tumors with small blue round cell histology was shown to provide a highly robust and reproducible approach for precisely classifying this diagnostically challenging group of tumors. We describe the case of an undifferentiated sarcoma of the abdominal wall in a 12-year-old girl. The patient presented with a voluminous mass of the abdominal wall, and multiple micro-nodules in the right lung. The tumor was unclassifiable with current immunohistochemical and molecular approaches. However, DNA methylation profiling allowed us to classify this neoplasia as small blue round cell tumor with CIC alterations. The patient was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by complete surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. After 22 months, the patient is disease-free and in good clinical condition. To put our experience in context, we conducted a literature review, analyzing current knowledge and state-of-the-art diagnosis, prognosis, and clinical management of CIC rearranged sarcomas. Our findings further support the use of DNA methylation profiling as an important tool to improve diagnosis of non-Ewing small round cell tumors.
Chromosomal Distribution of Genes Conferring Tolerance to Abiotic Stresses Versus That of Genes Controlling Resistance to Biotic Stresses in Plants
Authors: Wang Richard R.-C.
Published: March 2020

Tolerance to abiotic stresses caused by environmental conditions can prevent yield loss in crops for sustaining agricultural productivity [...]
The Role of Gibberellins in Regulation of Nitrogen Uptake and Physiological Traits in Maize Responding to Nitrogen Availability
Authors: Wang Yubin , Yao Qingqing , Zhang Yushi , Zhang Yuexia , Xing Jiapeng , Yang Benzhou , Mi Guohua , Li Zhaohu , Zhang Mingcai
Published: March 2020

Modified gibberellin (GA) signaling leads to semi-dwarfism with low nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) in crops. An understanding of GA-mediated N uptake is essential for the development of crops with improved NUE. The function of GA in modulating N uptake capacity and nitrate (NO3−) transporters (NRTs) was analyzed in the GA synthesis-deficient mutant zmga3ox grown under low (LN) and sufficient (SN) N conditions. LN significantly suppressed the production of GA1, GA3, and GA4, and the zmga3ox plants showed more sensitivity in shoots as well as LN stress. Moreover, the higher anthocyanin accumulation and the decrease of chlorophyll content were also recorded. The net NO3− fluxes and 15N content were decreased in zmga3ox plants under both LN and SN conditions. Exogenous GA3 could restore the NO3− uptake in zmga3ox plants, but uniconazole repressed NO3− uptake. Moreover, the transcript levels of ZmNRT2.1/2.2 were downregulated in zmga3ox plants, while the GA3 application enhanced the expression level. Furthermore, the RNA-seq analyses identified several transcription factors that are involved in the GA-mediated transcriptional operation of NRTs related genes. These findings revealed that GAs influenced N uptake involved in the transcriptional regulation of NRTs and physiological responses in maize responding to nitrogen supply.
Immune Response Dysfunction in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Dissecting Molecular Mechanisms and Microenvironmental Conditions
Authors: Arruga Francesca , Gyau Benjamin Baffour , Iannello Andrea , Vitale Nicoletta , Vaisitti Tiziana , Deaglio Silvia
Published: March 2020

Representing the major cause of morbidity and mortality for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients, immunosuppression is a common feature of the disease. Effectors of the innate and the adaptive immune response show marked dysfunction and skewing towards the generation of a tolerant environment that favors disease expansion. Major deregulations are found in the T lymphocyte compartment, with inhibition of CD8+ cytotoxic and CD4+ activated effector T cells, replaced by exhausted and more tolerogenic subsets. Likewise, differentiation of monocytes towards a suppressive M2-like phenotype is induced at the expense of pro-inflammatory sub-populations. Thanks to their B-regulatory phenotype, leukemic cells play a central role in driving immunosuppression, progressively inhibiting immune responses. A number of signaling cascades triggered by soluble mediators and cell–cell contacts contribute to immunomodulation in CLL, fostered also by local environmental conditions, such as hypoxia and derived metabolic acidosis. Specifically, molecular pathways modulating T-cell activity in CLL, spanning from the best known cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) to the emerging T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif domains (TIGIT)/CD155 axes, are attracting increasing research interest and therapeutic relevance also in the CLL field. On the other hand, in the microenvironment, the B cell receptor (BCR), which is undoubtedly the master regulator of leukemic cell behavior, plays an important role in orchestrating immune responses, as well. Lastly, local conditions of hypoxia, typical of the lymphoid niche, have major effects both on CLL cells and on non-leukemic immune cells, partly mediated through adenosine signaling, for which novel specific inhibitors are currently under development. In summary, this review will provide an overview of the molecular and microenvironmental mechanisms that modify innate and adaptive immune responses of CLL patients, focusing attention on those that may have therapeutic implications.
Spotlight on the Ballet of Proteins: The Structural Dynamic Properties of Proteins Illuminated by Solution NMR
Authors: Tokunaga Yuji , Viennet Thibault , Arthanari Haribabu , Takeuchi Koh
Published: March 2020

Solution NMR spectroscopy is a unique and powerful technique that has the ability to directly connect the structural dynamics of proteins in physiological conditions to their activity and function. Here, we summarize recent studies in which solution NMR contributed to the discovery of relationships between key dynamic properties of proteins and functional mechanisms in important biological systems. The capacity of NMR to quantify the dynamics of proteins over a range of time scales and to detect lowly populated protein conformations plays a critical role in its power to unveil functional protein dynamics. This analysis of dynamics is not only important for the understanding of biological function, but also in the design of specific ligands for pharmacologically important proteins. Thus, the dynamic view of structure provided by NMR is of importance in both basic and applied biology.
Rapid and Simple Species Identification of Cicada Exuviae Using COI-Based SCAR Assay
Authors: Noh Pureum , Kim Wook Jin , Song Jun-Ho , Park Inkyu , Choi Goya , Moon Byeong Cheol
Published: March 2020

Cicadidae periostracum (CP), the medicinal name of cicada exuviae, is well-known insect-derived traditional medicine with various pharmacological effects, e.g., anticonvulsive, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and anticancer effects; it is also beneficial for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. For appropriate CP application, accurate species identification is essential. The Korean pharmacopoeia and the pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China define Cryptotympana atrata as the only authentic source of CP. Species identification of commercially distributed CP based on morphological features, however, is difficult because of the combined packaging of many cicada exuviae in markets, damage during distribution, and processing into powder form. DNA-based molecular markers are an excellent alternative to morphological detection. In this study, the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences of C. atrata, Meimuna opalifera, Platypleura kaempferi, and Hyalessa maculaticollis were analyzed. On the basis of sequence alignments, we developed sequence-characterized amplified-region (SCAR) markers for efficient species identification. These markers successfully discriminated C. atrata from the three other cicada species, and detected the adulteration of market CP samples. This SCAR assay is a rapid, simple, cheap, reliable, and reproducible method for species identification, regardless of sample form and status, and contributes to CP quality control.
Comparison of Inflammatory Effects in THP-1 Monocytes and Macrophages after Exposure to Metal Ions
Authors: Loeffler Henrike , Jonitz-Heincke Anika , Peters Kirsten , Mueller-Hilke Brigitte , Fiedler Tomas , Bader Rainer , Klinder Annett
Published: March 2020

Monocytes and macrophages are the first barrier of the innate immune system, which interact with abrasion and corrosion products, leading to the release of proinflammatory mediators and free reactive molecules. The aim of this study was to understand inflammation-relevant changes in monocytes and macrophages after exposure to corrosion products. To do this, the THP-1 cell line was used to analyze the effects of metal ions simultaneously in monocytes and differentiated macrophages. Cells were stimulated with several concentrations of metal salts (CoCl2, NiCl2, CrCl3 × 6H2O) to analyze viability, gene expression, protein release and ROS production. Untreated cells served as negative controls. While exposure to Cr(3+) did not influence cell viability in both cell types, the highest concentration (500 µM) of Co(2+) and Ni(2+) showed cytotoxic effects mirrored by significantly reduced metabolism, cell number and a concomitant increase of ROS. The release of IL-1β, IL-8, MCP-1 and M-CSF proteins was mainly affected in macrophages after metal ion exposure (100 µM), indicating a higher impact on pro-inflammatory activity. Our results prove that monocytes and macrophages react very sensitively to corrosion products. High concentrations of bivalent ions lead to cell death, while lower concentrations trigger the release of inflammatory mediators, mainly in macrophages.
Alveolar Socket Preservation with Different Autologous Graft Materials: Preliminary Results of a Multicenter Pilot Study in Human
Authors: Minetti Elio , Giacometti Edoardo , Gambardella Ugo , Contessi Marcello , Ballini Andrea , Marenzi Gaetano , Celko Martin , Mastrangelo Filiberto
Published: March 2020

Background: The histological and histomorphometrical results were evaluated between vital whole and non-vital endodontically treated teeth used as autologous grafts in post-extractive socket preservation procedures. Methods: Twenty-eight patients (average age 51.79 ± 5.97 years) with post-extractive defects were enrolled in five dentistry centers. All patients were divided into two groups: with whole teeth (Group 1) and teeth with endodontical root canal therapy (Group 2). The extracted teeth were processed with the Tooth Transformer device to obtain a demineralized and granulated graft material used with a resorbable collagen membrane for socket preservation. After four months, 32 bone biopsies were obtained for histological, histomorphometric, and statistical analysis. Results: During the bone healing period, no infection signs were observed. Nineteen biopsies in group 1 and 13 biopsies in group 2 were detected. The histological analysis showed neither inflammatory nor infective reaction in both groups. Autologous grafts surrounded by new bone were observed in all samples and, at high magnification, partially resorbed dentin and enamel structures were detected. No gutta-percha or cement was identified. Small non-statistically significant differences between the groups, in total bone volume (BV), autologous graft residual, and vital bone percentage were detected. Conclusions: The study showed that the TT Transformer grafts were capable of producing new vital bone in socket preservation procedures. The histomorphometric results showed no statistical differences comparing whole and endodontically treated teeth in bone regeneration. Further studies will be carried out in order to understand the advantages of the autologous graft materials obtained from the tooth compared with the current biomaterials in bone regeneration treatments.
FIMEC Test to Evaluate the Water Uptake of Coated and Uncoated CFRP Composites
Authors: David Francesco , Moretti Patrizia , Tagliaferri Vincenzo , Trovalusci Federica
Published: March 2020

This study focuses on the application of the FIMEC (flat-top cylinder indenter for mechanical characterization) indentation test to evaluate the effect of water uptake on the mechanical properties of high-performance materials, in particular CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced polymer) composites. Coated and uncoated samples were analyzed. Silicon-based and siloxane coatings were formulated and applied to CFRP to reduce the moisture absorption of the material. The FIMEC test was adopted to study the reduction of the stiffness of CFRP plates for different ageing in water. The evolution of mechanical properties is reported as a function of the water uptake. IR analyses and weight variation measures were used as supporting data. Experimental results show that the FIMEC test is suitable to assess the stiffness reduction due to the aging in water and to identify coatings able to minimize the water uptake.
Experimental Investigation of the Pumping of a Model-Concrete through Pipes
Authors: Haustein Martin A. , Kluwe Moritz N. , Schwarze Rüdiger
Published: March 2020

Many practical aspects of processing fresh concrete depend on its rheology, such as the pumping of the material. It is known that a lubricating layer is formed in the process, which significantly reduces the pumping pressure. However, these phenomena can hardly be considered in the usual rheological measurements. A main problem is the optical inaccessibility of the material, which prevents estimations about, e.g., the thickness of the plug flow or particle migration. In this paper, the pneumatic pumping of a transparent model concrete is performed by means of a test plant. The flow profile over the entire pipe cross-section is resolved in time and space via Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) measurements. This allows the comparison with the analytical flow profile from rheological measurements of the material using the Buckingham–Reiner equation. A reduction of the pressure loss to around 60% induced through segregation of the material is found. These measurements reflect the rheology of the material under realistic pumping conditions including particle migration. This makes it possible for the first time to observe a transparent material with concrete-like rheology under pulsating pumping conditions and to compare the true and calculated time-resolved pressure loss.
Service Life and Early Age Durability Enhancement due to Combined Metakaolin and Nanosilica in Mortars for Marine Applications
Authors: García Ramiro , Reyes Encarnación , Villanueva Paula , de la Rubia Miguel , Fernández Jaime , Moragues Amparo
Published: March 2020

The addition of a range of micro- and nano-particles to high-performance concrete has been the focus of recent research. At present, studies are mainly aimed at designing customised mortars, providing them with specific properties for each application. Improving the durability of mortars is one of the main objectives in such research, as a result of increasing environmental concern. The research presented herein analyses the synergistic effect of nanosilica and metakaolin as additives on the service life of cement-based mortars subject to aggressive environments (i.e., chloride exposure) at early ages. The effects of the additives on the durability properties of submerged samples after two and three days of curing were analysed. Tests were conducted on several different properties: resistivity, porosity, mechanical properties, chloride diffusion, and service life. It is observed that metakaolin and nanosilica exhibit a synergistic effect as additives, which is related to porosity refinement and chloride ion binding capacity, which contributes to enhanced resistance against chloride penetration from very early ages.
Investigation of Biogenic Passivating Layers on Corroded Iron
Authors: Comensoli Lucrezia , Albini Monica , Kooli Wafa , Maillard Julien , Lombardo Tiziana , Junier Pilar , Joseph Edith
Published: March 2020

This study evaluates mechanisms of biogenic mineral formation induced by bacterial iron reduction for the stabilization of corroded iron. As an example, the Desulfitobacterium hafniense strain TCE1 was employed to treat corroded coupons presenting urban natural atmospheric corrosion, and spectroscopic investigations were performed on the samples’ cross-sections to evaluate the corrosion stratigraphy. The treated samples presented a protective continuous layer of iron phosphates (vivianite Fe2+3(PO4)2·8H2O and barbosalite Fe2+Fe3+2(PO4)2(OH)2), which covered 92% of the surface and was associated with a decrease in the thickness of the original corrosion layer. The results allow us to better understand the conversion of reactive corrosion products into stable biogenic minerals, as well as to identify important criteria for the design of a green alternative treatment for the stabilization of corroded iron.
Permeability and Equivalent Circuit Model of Ionically Conductive Mortar Using Electrochemical Workstation
Authors: Xu An , Weng Yubin , Zhao Ruohong
Published: March 2020

Ionically conductive mortar is a new Portland cement-based construction material prepared by permeating electrolyte solution into porous mortar specimen. The conductive mechanism of ionically conductive mortar is the directional movement of internal free ions under external electric field. Because of the strong electrochemical properties of ionically conductive mortar, electrochemical workstation was used to test the performance of ionically conductive mortar. The open-circuit potential during the permeation process of ionically conductive mortar was tested. The results show that the change of open-circuit potential can effectively reflect the permeability rate of the samples with different porosity and electrolyte mass fraction. Besides the permeation of specimen, electrochemical workstation was also used to test the EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) of permeated specimens with different porosity, concentration of electrolyte solution, and different kinds of electrolyte solution. The quasi-Randles circuit model was then used to establish an equivalent circuit of ionically conductive mortar. Finally, the relation between parameter of circuit and the porosity or electrolyte solution was established. The test results show that solution resistance of the equivalent circuit and real resistivity of specimens is linearly correlated. This shows the equivalent circuit can effectively reflect the real resistivity of ionically conductive mortar, and the variation of electronic component parameters of equivalent circuit conforms to the conductive mechanism of ionically conductive mortar.
Synthesis and Use of Valsartan Metal Complexes as Media for Carbon Dioxide Storage
Authors: Mohammed Alaa , Yousif Emad , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: March 2020

To address global warming through carbon dioxide storage, three valsartan metal complexes were synthesized in excellent yields (87–92%) through a reaction of the appropriate metal chloride (tin chloride, nickel chloride hexahydrate, or magnesium chloride hexahydrate) and excess valsartan (two mole equivalents) in boiling methanol for 3 h. The structures of the metal complexes were established based on the data obtained from ultraviolet-visible, Fourier transform infrared, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, as well as from elemental analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectra, and magnetic susceptibility. The agglomeration and shape of the particles were determined using field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis. The surface area (16.63–22.75 m2/g) of the metal complexes was measured using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, whereas the Barrett-Joyner-Halenda method was used to determine the particle pore size (0.011–0.108 cm3/g), total average pore volume (6.50–12.46 nm), and pore diameter (6.50–12.47 nm), for the metal complexes. The carbon dioxide uptake of the synthesized complexes, at 323 K and 4 MPa (40 bar), ranged from 24.11 to 34.51 cm2/g, and the nickel complex was found to be the most effective sorbent for carbon dioxide storage.
On the Machinability of an Al-63%SiC Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Repeto David , Fernández-Vidal Severo Raul , Mayuet Pedro F. , Salguero Jorge , Batista Moisés
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a preliminary study of aluminium matrix composite materials during machining, with a special focus on their behavior under conventional processes. This work will expand the knowledge of these materials, which is considered to be strategic for some industrial sectors, such as the aeronautics, electronics, and automotive sectors. Finding a machining model will allow us to define the necessary parameters when applying the materials to industry. As a previous step of the material and its machining, an experimental state-of-the-art review has been carried out, revealing a lack of studies about the composition and material properties, processes, tools, and recommended parameters. The results obtained and reflected in this paper are as follows; SiC is present in metallic matrix composite (MMC) materials in a very wide variety of sizes. A metallographic study of the material confirms the high percentage of reinforcement and very high microhardness values registered. During the machining process, tools present a very high level of wear in a very short amount of time, where chips are generated and arcs are segmented, revealing the high microhardness of the material, which is given by its high concentration of SiC. The chip shape is the same among other materials with a similar microhardness, such as Ti or its alloys. The forces registered in the machining process are quite different from conventional alloys and are more similar to the values of harder alloys, which is also the case for chip generation. The results coincide, in part, with previous studies and also give new insight into the behavior of this material, which does not conform to the assumptions for standard metallic materials, where the hypothesis of Shaffer is not directly applicable. On the other hand, here, cutting forces do not behave in accordance with the traditional model. This paper will contribute to improve the knowledge of the Al-63%SiC MMC itself and the machining behavior.
The Bipartite Zero Forcing Set for a Full Sign Pattern Matrix
Authors: Mou Gu-Fang , Wang Tian-Fei , Li Zhong-Shan
Published: March 2020

For an m × n sign pattern P, we define a signed bipartite graph B ( U , V ) with one set of vertices U = { 1 , 2 , … , m } based on rows of P and the other set of vertices V = { 1 ′ , 2 ′ , … , n ′ } based on columns of P. The zero forcing number is an important graph parameter that has been used to study the minimum rank problem of a matrix. In this paper, we introduce a new variant of zero forcing set−bipartite zero forcing set and provide an algorithm for computing the bipartite zero forcing number. The bipartite zero forcing number provides an upper bound for the maximum nullity of a square full sign pattern P. One advantage of the bipartite zero forcing is that it can be applied to study the minimum rank problem for a non-square full sign pattern.
Epidemiology of Lyme Disease in a Highly Endemic European Zone
Authors: Petrulionienė Agnė , Radzišauskienė Daiva , Ambrozaitis Arvydas , Čaplinskas Saulius , Paulauskas Algimantas , Venalis Algirdas
Published: March 2020

Background and objective: Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis (LB), is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by the spirochete bacteria Borrelia. The risk of infection depends on the geographical area, ecological factors, and human behavior. Clinical manifestations of Lyme borreliosis have a wide range, but the most frequent clinical symptom, which is also a diagnostic symptom, is a skin rash called erythema migrans (EM). The disease is very common worldwide. In Lithuania, the disease frequency is 99.9 cases per 100,000 population (Centre for Communicable Diseases and AIDS, Lithuania, 2017). The main aim of this study was to obtain the baseline characteristics of the disease regarding the infected Lithuanian population. Materials and Methods: We analyzed data from the Centre for Communicable Diseases and AIDS about all Lyme disease (A69.2) diagnosed patients over a three-year period (from 2014 to 2016) in Lithuania. Results: In 2014–2016, 7424 (crude incidence rate 85.4) cases with LB were diagnosed in Lithuania. Most of them (4633 (62.4%)) were identified in women. Older people were more likely to suffer from LB. Urban residents were 2.6 times more often affected that those living in villages. Tick bites were primarily observed in high season months, from May to September (90%), with the highest peak in July. There was a higher number of observed tick bites (p = 0.003) in the urban residents. Erythema migrans occurred in 75.6% LB cases, while other symptoms did not exceed a quarter of all LB cases. There were 7353 (99.6%) cases where LB was confirmed via clinical symptoms and/or laboratory tests. Also, 1720 (23.2%) patients were tested for LB immunoglobulins. Conclusions: This study found a high incidence of Lyme disease in Lithuania. We elucidated the baseline characteristics regarding the infected Lithuanian population which may ease medical clinicians’ work on new Lyme diagnoses.
Surface Modification of Silicon Nanowire Based Field Effect Transistors with Stimuli Responsive Polymer Brushes for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Klinghammer Stephanie , Rauch Sebastian , Pregl Sebastian , Uhlmann Petra , Baraban Larysa , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: March 2020

We demonstrate the functionalization of silicon nanowire based field effect transistors (SiNW FETs) FETs with stimuli-responsive polymer brushes of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAM) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA). Surface functionalization was confirmed by atomic force microscopy, contact angle measurements, and verified electrically using a silicon nanowire based field effect transistor sensor device. For thermo-responsive PNIPAAM, the physicochemical properties (i.e., a reversible phase transition, wettability) were induced by crossing the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of about 32 °C. Taking advantage of this property, osteosarcomic SaoS-2 cells were cultured on PNIPAAM-modified sensors at temperatures above the LCST, and completely detached by simply cooling. Next, the weak polyelectrolyte PAA, that is sensitive towards alteration of pH and ionic strength, was used to cover the silicon nanowire based device. Here, the increase of pH will cause deprotonation of the present carboxylic (COOH) groups along the chains into negatively charged COO− moieties that repel each other and cause swelling of the polymer. Our experimental results suggest that this functionalization enhances the pH sensitivity of the SiNW FETs. Specific receptor (bio-)molecules can be added to the polymer brushes by simple click chemistry so that functionality of the brush layer can be tuned optionally. We demonstrate at the proof-of concept-level that osteosarcomic Saos-2 cells can adhere to PNIPAAM-modified FETs, and cell signals could be recorded electrically. This study presents an applicable route for the modification of highly sensitive, versatile FETs that can be applied for detection of a variety of biological analytes.
Data Fusion for the Prediction of Elemental Concentrations in Polymetallic Sulphide Ore Using Mid-Wave Infrared and Long-Wave Infrared Reflectance Data
Authors: Desta Feven , Buxton Mike , Jansen Jeroen
Published: March 2020

The increasing availability of complex multivariate data yielded by sensor technologies permits qualitative and quantitative data analysis for material characterization. Multivariate data are hard to understand by visual inspection and intuition. Thus, data-driven models are required to derive study-specific insights from large datasets. In the present study, a partial least squares regression (PLSR) model was used for the prediction of elemental concentrations using the mineralogical techniques mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) combined with data fusion approaches. In achieving the study objectives, the usability of the individual MWIR and LWIR datasets for the prediction of the concentration of elements in a polymetallic sulphide deposit was assessed, and the results were compared with the outputs of low- and mid-level data fusion methods. Prior to low-level data fusion implementation, data filtering techniques were applied to the MWIR and LWIR datasets. The pre-processed data were concatenated and a PLSR model was developed using the fused data. The mid-level data fusion was implemented by extracting features using principal component analysis (PCA) scores. As the models were applied to the MWIR, LWIR, and fused datasets, an improved prediction was achieved using the low-level data fusion approach. Overall, the acquired results indicate that the MWIR data can be used to reliably predict a combined Pb–Zn concentration, whereas LWIR data has a good correlation with the Fe concentration. The proposed approach could be extended for generating indicative element concentrations in polymetallic sulphide deposits in real-time using infrared reflectance data. Thus, it is beneficial in providing elemental concentration insights in mining operations.
Elsholtzia ciliata (Thunb.) Hyl. Extracts from Different Plant Parts: Phenolic Composition, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Pudziuvelyte Lauryna , Liaudanskas Mindaugas , Jekabsone Aiste , Sadauskiene Ilona , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: March 2020

Polyphenols play an important role on the health-promoting properties of humans. Plants belonging to Lamiaceae family are known as rich source of phenolic compounds. The current work aimed to evaluate the phenolic compounds, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of Elsholtzia ciliata (Thunb.) Hyl. ethanolic extracts from leaf, stem, flower, and whole herb. Twelve compounds were identified in ethanolic extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The HPLC analysis revealed that chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, and rutin were predominant compounds in ethanolicic extracts. Using HPLC-ABTS (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) post-column assay, avicularin, chlorogenic, and rosmarinic acids were identified as the predominant radical scavengers in all ethanolic extracts. All tested preparations significantly reduced the level of secretion of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and prostaglandin E2 induced by lipopolysaccharide treatment in mouse peritoneal macrophage cell culture. Stem and flower extracts were most efficient in reducing cytokine release, but leaf extract demonstrated stronger effect on prostaglandin E2 secretion. This is the first study exploring antioxidant efficiency by HPLC–ABTS post-column method and investigating anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extracts from E. ciliata different plant parts.
Searching for Solvents with an Increased Carbon Dioxide Solubility Using Multivariate Statistics
Authors: Bystrzanowska Marta , Tobiszewski Marek , Pena-Pereira Francisco , Simeonov Vasil
Published: March 2020

Ionic liquids (ILs) are used in various fields of chemistry. One of them is CO2 capture, a process that is quite well described. The solubility of CO2 in ILs can be used as a model to investigate gas absorption processes. The aim is to find the relationships between the solubility of CO2 and other variables—physicochemical properties and parameters related to greenness. In this study, 12 variables are used to describe a dataset consisting of 26 ILs and 16 molecular solvents. We used a cluster analysis, a principal component analysis, and a K-means hierarchical clustering to find the patterns in the dataset and the discriminators between the clusters of compounds. The results showed that ILs and molecular solvents form two well-separated groups, and the variables were well separated into greenness-related and physicochemical properties. Such patterns suggest that the modeling of greenness properties and of the solubility of CO2 on physicochemical properties can be difficult.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Aromatic Amide-Substituted Benzimidazole-Derived Chalcones. The Effect of Upregulating TP53 Protein Expression
Authors: Wu Lintao , Yang Yuting , Wang Zhijun , Wu Xi , Su Feng , Li Mengyao , Jing Xiaobi , Han Chun
Published: March 2020

A series of benzimidazole-derived chalcones containing aromatic amide substituent were designed and synthesized. All of the chalcone compounds were tested for their in vitro antitumor activity against human cancer cell lines (HCT116, HepG2, A549, and CRL-5908). The antiproliferative activity of compounds 3, 6, 9, 14, 15, 16 against HCT116 cells was significantly better than that that of 5-Fluorouracil (IC50: 94.63 µM). The antitumor activity of these compounds showed obvious differences between the wild type HCT116 and mutant HCT116 (TP53−/−) cells. A preliminary mechanistic study suggested that these compounds act by upregulating the expression of TP53 protein in tumor cells without inhibiting the MDM2-TP53 interaction.
Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy of Electrically Heated Wire Substrates
Authors: Wert Stefan , Fußstetter Alexander , Iffelsberger Christian , Matysik Frank-Michael
Published: March 2020

We report a new configuration for enhancing the performance of scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) via heating of the substrate electrode. A flattened Pt microwire was employed as the substrate electrode. The substrate was heated by an alternating current (AC), resulting in an increased mass transfer between the wire surface and the bulk solution. The electrochemical response of the Pt wire during heating was investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV). The open circuit potential (OCP) of the wire was recorded over time, while varied heating currents were applied to investigate the time needed for establishing steady-state conditions. Diffusion layer studies were carried out by performing probe approach curves (PACs) for various measuring modes of SECM. Finally, imaging studies of a heated substrate electrode surface, applying feedback, substrate generation/tip collection (SG/TC), and the competition mode of SECM, were performed and compared with room temperature results.
Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activity of Berries and Leaves from Four Romanian Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae Rhamnoides L.) Varieties
Authors: Criste Adriana , Urcan Adriana Cristina , Bunea Andrea , Pripon Furtuna Flavia Roxana , Olah Neli Kinga , Madden Robert H. , Corcionivoschi Nicolae
Published: March 2020

Hippophae rhamnoides L. is an important source of natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. Phytochemical compounds, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of berries, and leaf extracts from four Romanian sea buckthorn cultivars were investigated. Large differences in the content of total polyphenols and flavonoids between the varieties were observed. HPLC analysis of the polyphenolic compounds showed greater differences in content in leaves than in berries. This study confirmed that sea buckthorn leaves and berries are a rich source of phenolic compounds, especially quercetin derivatives and hydrocinnamic acid derivatives. Five carotenoid compounds were identified in the berries: lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, cis-β-carotene, and β-carotene. From the results obtained in this study, it can be stated that the varieties whose berries yielded the highest quantities of polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity, can be ranked as follows: SF6 > Golden Abundant > Carmen > Colosal, and for leaf extracts the ranked order is SF6 > Golden Abundant > Colosal > Carmen. A strong correlation between the total flavonoid yield and antioxidant activity (r = 0.96), was observed. All extracts showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus, B. cereus, and P. aeruginosa, however extracts from berries were less potent than extracts from leaves.
Primary Human Hepatocytes, But not HepG2 or Balb/c 3T3 Cells, Efficiently Metabolize Salinomycin and Are Resistant to Its Cytotoxicity
Authors: Radko Lidia , Olejnik Małgorzata , Posyniak Andrzej
Published: March 2020

Salinomycin is a polyether antibiotic showing anticancer activity. There are many reports of its toxicity to animals but little is known about the potential adverse effects in humans. The action of the drug may be connected to its metabolism. That is why we investigated the cytotoxicity of salinomycin and pathways of its biotransformation using human primary hepatocytes, human hepatoma cells (HepG2), and the mouse fibroblast cell line (Balb/c 3T3). The cytotoxicity of salinomycin was time-dependent, concentration-dependent, and cell-dependent with primary hepatocytes being the most resistant. Among the studied models, primary hepatocytes were the only ones to efficiently metabolize salinomycin but even they were saturated at higher concentrations. The main route of biotransformation was monooxygenation leading to the formation of monohydroxysalinomycin, dihydroxysalinomycin, and trihydroxysalinomycin. Tiamulin, which is a known inhibitor of CYP450 izoenzymes, synergistically induced cytotoxicity of salinomycin in all cell types, including non-metabolising fibroblasts. Therefore, the pharmacokinetic interaction cannot fully explain tiamulin impact on salinomycin toxicity.
Protective Effects of Methoxsalen Supplementation on Chronic Alcohol-induced Osteopenia and Steatosis in Rats
Authors: Ham Ju Ri , Choi Ra-Yeong , Lee Hae-In , Lee Mi-Kyung
Published: March 2020

Osteopenia or osteoporosis occurs frequently in alcoholics and patients with alcoholic fatty liver disease. Methoxsalen (MTS), 8-methoxypsoralen, improved osteoporosis in ovariectomized and diabetic mouse models; however, its effects on alcohol-induced osteopenia and steatosis have not been reported. This study examined the effects of MTS on alcohol-induced bone loss and steatosis. Rats in the alcohol groups were fed a Liber-DeCarli liquid diet containing 36% of its calories as alcohol. MTS was at 0.005% in their diet, while alendronate (positive control; 500 μg/kg BW/day) was administered orally for eight weeks. The pair-fed group received the same volume of isocaloric liquid diet containing dextrin-maltose instead of alcohol as the alcohol control group consumed the previous day. In the alcohol-fed rats, the MTS and alendronate increased the bone volume density, bone surface density and trabecular number, while the bone specific surface, trabecular separation and structure model index were decreased in the tibia. MTS down-regulated tibial tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5 (TRAP) expression compared to the alcohol control group. MTS or alendronate prevented chronic alcohol-induced hepatic lipid accumulation and the triglyceride level in the alcohol-fed rats by decreasing the lipogenic enzyme activities and increasing the fatty acid oxidation enzyme activities. MTS reduced significantly the serum levels of alcohol, TRAP and tumor necrosis factor-α compared to the alcohol control group. Overall, these results suggest that MTS is likely to be an alternative agent for alcoholic osteopenia and hepatosteatosis.
1,2,4-Triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines as a Novel Class of Inhibitors of the HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase-Associated Ribonuclease H Activity
Authors: Desantis Jenny , Massari Serena , Corona Angela , Astolfi Andrea , Sabatini Stefano , Manfroni Giuseppe , Palazzotti Deborah , Cecchetti Violetta , Pannecouque Christophe , Tramontano Enzo , Tabarrini Oriana
Published: March 2020

Despite great efforts have been made in the prevention and therapy of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection, however the difficulty to eradicate latent viral reservoirs together with the emergence of multi-drug-resistant strains require the search for innovative agents, possibly exploiting novel mechanisms of action. In this context, the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT)-associated ribonuclease H (RNase H), which is one of the few HIV-1 encoded enzymatic function still not targeted by any current drug, can be considered as an appealing target. In this work, we repurposed in-house anti-influenza derivatives based on the 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a]-pyrimidine (TZP) scaffold for their ability to inhibit HIV-1 RNase H function. Based on the results, a successive multi-step structural exploration around the TZP core was performed leading to identify catechol derivatives that inhibited RNase H in the low micromolar range without showing RT-associated polymerase inhibitory activity. The antiviral evaluation of the compounds in the MT4 cells showed any activity against HIV-1 (IIIB strain). Molecular modelling and mutagenesis analysis suggested key interactions with an unexplored allosteric site providing insights for the future optimization of this class of RNase H inhibitors.
Ultraviolet Photoactivated Room Temperature NO2 Gas Sensor of ZnO Hemitubes and Nanotubes Covered with TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Choi Hee-Jung , Kwon Soon-Hwan , Lee Won-Seok , Im Kwang-Gyun , Kim Tae-Hyun , Noh Beom-Rae , Park Sunghoon , Oh Semi , Kim Kyoung-Kook
Published: March 2020

Prolonged exposure to NO2 can cause lung tissue inflammation, bronchiolitis fibrosa obliterans, and silo filler’s disease. In recent years, nanostructured semiconducting metal oxides have been widely used to fabricate gas sensors because of their unique structure and surface-to-volume ratio compared to layered materials. In particular, the different morphologies of ZnO-based nanostructures significantly affect the detection property of NO2 gas sensors. However, because of the large interaction energy of chemisorption (1–10 eV), metal oxide-based gas sensors are typically operated above 100 °C, overcoming the energy limits to attain high sensitivity and fast reaction. High operating temperature negatively affects the reliability and durability of semiconductor-based sensors; at high temperature, the diffusion and sintering effects at the metal oxide grain boundaries are major factors causing undesirable long-term drift problems and preventing stability improvements. Therefore, we demonstrate NO2 gas sensors consisting of ZnO hemitubes (HTs) and nanotubes (NTs) covered with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). To operate the gas sensor at room temperature (RT), we measured the gas-sensing properties with ultraviolet illumination onto the active region of the gas sensor for photoactivation instead of conventional thermal activation by heating. The performance of these gas sensors was enhanced by the change of barrier potential at the ZnO/TiO2 interfaces, and their depletion layer was expanded by the NPs formation. The gas sensor based on ZnO HTs showed 1.2 times higher detection property than those consisting of ZnO NTs at the 25 ppm NO2 gas.
Thin Films Based on Cobalt Phthalocyanine:C60 Fullerene:ZnO Hybrid Nanocomposite Obtained by Laser Evaporation
Authors: Socol Marcela , Preda Nicoleta , Costas Andreea , Borca Bogdana , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Mihailescu Andreea , Socol Gabriel , Stanculescu Anca
Published: March 2020

Matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) was used to deposit hybrid nanocomposite thin films based on cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc), C60 fullerene and ZnO nanoparticles. The inorganic nanoparticles, with a size of about 20 nm, having the structural and optical properties characteristic of ZnO, were chemically synthesized by a simple precipitation method. Furthermore, ZnO nanoparticles were dispersed in a dimethyl sulfoxide solution in which CoPc and C60 had been dissolved, ready for the freezing MAPLE target. The effect of the concentration of ZnO nanoparticles on the structural, morphological, optical and electrical properties of the CoPc:C60:ZnO hybrid nanocomposite layers deposited by MAPLE was evaluated. The infrared spectra of the hybrid nanocomposite films confirm that the CoPc and C60 preserve their chemical structure during the laser deposition process. The CoPc optical signature is recognized in the ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra of the obtained layers, these being dominated by the absorption bands associated to this organic compound while the ZnO optical fingerprint is identified in the photoluminescence spectra of the prepared layers, these disclosing the emission bands linked to this inorganic semiconductor. The hybrid nanocomposite layers exhibit globular morphology, which is typical for the thin films deposited by MAPLE. Current-voltage (J-V) characteristics of the structures developed on CoPc:C60:ZnO layers reveal that the addition of an appropriate amount of ZnO nanoparticles in the CoPc:C60 mixture leads to a more efficient charge transfer between the organic and inorganic components. Due to their photovoltaic effect, structures featuring such hybrid nanocomposite thin films deposited by MAPLE can have potential applications in the field of photovoltaic devices.
AACVD Synthesis and Characterization of Iron and Copper Oxides Modified ZnO Structured Films
Authors: Claros Martha , Setka Milena , Jimenez Yecid P. , Vallejos Stella
Published: March 2020

Non-modified (ZnO) and modified (Fe2O3@ZnO and CuO@ZnO) structured films are deposited via aerosol assisted chemical vapor deposition. The surface modification of ZnO with iron or copper oxides is achieved in a second aerosol assisted chemical vapor deposition step and the characterization of morphology, structure, and surface of these new structured films is discussed. X-ray photoelectron spectrometry and X-ray diffraction corroborate the formation of ZnO, Fe2O3, and CuO and the electron microscopy images show the morphological and crystalline characteristics of these structured films. Static water contact angle measurements for these structured films indicate hydrophobic behavior with the modified structures showing higher contact angles compared to the non-modified films. Overall, results show that the modification of ZnO with iron or copper oxides enhances the hydrophobic behavior of the surface, increasing the contact angle of the water drops at the non-modified ZnO structures from 122° to 135° and 145° for Fe2O3@ZnO and CuO@ZnO, respectively. This is attributed to the different surface properties of the films including the morphology and chemical composition.