bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aligning the Aligners: Comparison of RNA Sequencing Data Alignment and Gene Expression Quantification Tools for Clinical Breast Cancer Research
Authors: Raplee Isaac D. , Evsikov Alexei V. , Marín de Evsikova Caralina
Published: April 2019

The rapid expansion of transcriptomics and affordability of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies generate rocketing amounts of gene expression data across biology and medicine, including cancer research. Concomitantly, many bioinformatics tools were developed to streamline gene expression and quantification. We tested the concordance of NGS RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis outcomes between two predominant programs for read alignment, HISAT2, and STAR, and two most popular programs for quantifying gene expression in NGS experiments, edgeR and DESeq2, using RNA-seq data from breast cancer progression series, which include histologically confirmed normal, early neoplasia, ductal carcinoma in situ and infiltrating ductal carcinoma samples microdissected from formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) breast tissue blocks. We identified significant differences in aligners’ performance: HISAT2 was prone to misalign reads to retrogene genomic loci, STAR generated more precise alignments, especially for early neoplasia samples. edgeR and DESeq2 produced similar lists of differentially expressed genes, with edgeR producing more conservative, though shorter, lists of genes. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed no skewness in significant GO terms identified among differentially expressed genes by edgeR versus DESeq2. As transcriptomics of FFPE samples becomes a vanguard of precision medicine, choice of bioinformatics tools becomes critical for clinical research. Our results indicate that STAR and edgeR are well-suited tools for differential gene expression analysis from FFPE samples.
Additive Manufacturing: A Game Changer in Supply Chain Design
Authors: Verboeket Victor , Krikke Harold
Published: April 2019

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a digital manufacturing technology that enables companies to rethink their supply chain (SC) design. By means of literature synthesis, we build new knowledge about the mechanisms AM induces to improve SC design and performance, as well as the disruptive changes AM can cause. We investigate opportunities to optimize SC design for manufacturing purposes by exploiting the characteristics of AM, e.g., its freedom in terms of shape design and complexity and the absence of a need for object-specific tools. We study the roles of demand, assortment, IT systems, sourcing, manufacturing, knowledge, warehousing, and transportation, and explore the effects and tradeoffs on various SC performance outcomes, including cost, assets, and responsiveness. The contribution of this article is twofold. First, through literature synthesis, we construct six AM SC mechanisms that can be used in SC design to achieve desired SC outcomes for AM production applications in certain (business) contexts. Second, we identify the disruptive ‘game-changing’ effects of AM for SC stakeholders. This knowledge can be used by other researchers to develop further research. Moreover, general and logistics managers can use the results to fully exploit the potential of AM for designing much improved supply chains. Innovators and policy makers can use the results to understand the potential game-changing consequences of AM.
Structural Properties and Phase Stability of Primary Y Phase (Ti2SC) in Ti-Stabilized Stainless Steel from Experiments and First Principles
Authors: Zhao Deli , Zhou Yu , Fan Jiangyu , Liu Tianyu , Nie Yihong , Fu Wantang , Lv Zhiqing
Published: April 2019

The morphology and microstructural evaluation of Y phases in AISI 321 (a Ti-stabilized stainless steel) were characterized after hot deformation. The electronic structure and phase stability of titanium carbosulfide were further discussed by first-principle calculations. It was found that Y phases, like curved strips or bones in AISI 321 stainless steel, mostly show a clustered distribution and are approximately arranged in parallel. The width of the Y phase is much less than the length, and the composition of the Y phase is close to that of Ti2SC. Y phases have exceptional thermal stability. The morphology of Y phases changed considerably after forging. During the first calculations, the Ti2SC with hexagonal structure does not spontaneously change into TiS and TiC; however Ti4S2C2 (Z = 2) can spontaneously change into the two phases. The Ti–S bonds are compressed in Ti4S2C2 cells, which leads to poor structural stability for Ti4S2C2. There is a covalent interaction between C/S and Ti, as well as an exchange of electrons between Ti and S/C atoms. Evidently, the mechanical stability of Ti4S2C2 is weak; however, Ti2SC shows high stability. Ti2SC, as a hard brittle phase, does not easily undergo plastic deformation.
Preparation and Short-Term Aging Properties of Asphalt Modified by Novel Sustained-Release Microcapsules Containing Rejuvenator
Authors: Yan Xin , Ning Guotao , Wang Xiaofeng , Ai Tao , Zhao Peng , Wang Zhenjun
Published: April 2019

Aged asphalt can enormously affect the performance of asphalt pavement and cause serious environmental hazards. Microcapsule-modified asphalt is one of the effective means to improve the anti-aging ability of asphalt. In this work, novel sustained-release microcapsules containing rejuvenator were prepared by the solvent evaporation method. The morphology of the microcapsules was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The sustained-release properties of the microcapsules were investigated by static thermogravimetric analysis. The physical properties such as penetration, ductility, softening point, and Brookfield viscosity of the original asphalt and microcapsule-modified asphalt were studied. In addition, the viscoelasticity of the original asphalt and microcapsule-modified asphalt was investigated by means of a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). The results show that the prepared microcapsules have a smooth surface and a complete encapsulation with an average particle size of 60 μm. After the heating treatment (above 140 °C), a large number of micropores were formed on the shell surface of microcapsules, which provided a structural basis for the sustained-release of rejuvenator. The release rate of the rejuvenator was obviously slowed down by the microcapsules. The aging behavior of sustained-release microcapsules containing rejuvenator-modified asphalt can be greatly improved. The enhanced anti-aging properties of sustained-release microcapsule-modified asphalt are attributed to the functions of the rejuvenator which can be slowly released from the micropores on the microcapsules’ surface, after which the light components lost in the original asphalt can be supplemented.
Tailor-Made Hand Exoskeletons at the University of Florence: From Kinematics to Mechatronic Design
Authors: Secciani Nicola , Bianchi Matteo , Ridolfi Alessandro , Vannetti Federica , Volpe Yary , Governi Lapo , Bianchini Massimo , Allotta Benedetto
Published: April 2019

Recently, robotics has increasingly become a companion for the human being and assisting physically impaired people with robotic devices is showing encouraging signs regarding the application of this largely investigated technology to the clinical field. As of today, however, exoskeleton design can still be considered a hurdle task and, even in modern robotics, aiding those patients who have lost or injured their limbs is surely one of the most challenging goal. In this framework, the research activity carried out by the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Florence concentrated on the development of portable, wearable and highly customizable hand exoskeletons to aid patients suffering from hand disabilities, and on the definition of patient-centered design strategies to tailor-made devices specifically developed on the different users’ needs. Three hand exoskeletons versions will be presented in this paper proving the major taken steps in mechanical designing and controlling a compact and lightweight solution. The performance of the resulting systems has been tested in a real-use scenario. The obtained results have been satisfying, indicating that the derived solutions may constitute a valid alternative to existing hand exoskeletons so far studied in the rehabilitation and assistance fields.
Optimal Approximate Solution of Coincidence Point Equations in Fuzzy Metric Spaces
Authors: Saleem Naeem , Abbas Mujahid , Sen Manuel De la
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this paper is to introduce α f -proximal H -contraction of the first and second kind in the setup of complete fuzzy metric space and to obtain optimal coincidence point results. The obtained results unify, extend and generalize various comparable results in the literature. We also present some examples to support the results obtained herein.
Preparation, Mechanical Properties, and Biocompatibility of Graphene Oxide-Reinforced Chitin Monofilament Absorbable Surgical Sutures
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yin Bin , Xin Yu , Li Lei , Ye Guanlin , Wang Junxian , Shen Jianfei , Cui Xiao , Yang Qihui
Published: April 2019

Chitin (CT) is a good material to prepare surgical sutures due to its conspicuous biological characteristics. However, the poor mechanical strength of pure CT sutures limits its application. In order to improve its strength, a composite monofilament absorbable suture was prepared in this study using graphene oxide and chitin (GO-CT) using a green method. FT-IR spectra showed that GO-CT contained the characteristic functional groups of GO and CT, indicating that a GO-CT suture was successfully obtained. With the addition of a small amount of GO (1.6wt% solution) in chitin, the breaking tensile strength, knot strength, and knot-pull strength of the GO-CT suture were significantly improved compared to the CT suture. The biocompatibility of the GO-CT suture in vitro was checked by tetrazolium-based colorimetric assays and no cytotoxicity to L929 cells was found. In vivo, the subcutaneous implantation of GO-CT sutures in the dorsal skin of rats found no abnormalities by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Furthermore, there were no significant changes in the gene expression of the inflammatory mediators, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6, IL-17A, interferon-γ, or IL-10; however, the expression of transforming growth factor β was significantly increased in the first week. In summary, GO-CT sutures may have potential as a suture material in the clinic.
Magnesium: The Forgotten Electrolyte—A Review on Hypomagnesemia
Authors: Ahmed Faheemuddin , Mohammed Abdul
Published: April 2019

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant cation in the body and the second most abundant intracellular cation. It plays an important role in different organ systems at the cellular and enzymatic levels. Despite its importance, it still has not received the needed attention either in the medical literature or in clinical practice in comparison to other electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. Hypomagnesemia can lead to many clinical manifestations with some being life-threatening. The reported incidence is less likely than expected in the general population. We present a comprehensive review of different aspects of magnesium physiology and hypomagnesemia which can help clinicians in understanding, identifying, and treating this disorder.
Process Parameters Decision to Optimization of Cold Rolling-Beating Forming Process through Experiment and Modelling
Authors: Li Long , Li Yan , Yang Mingshun , Tong Tong
Published: April 2019

The cold roll-beating forming (CRBF) process is a particular cold plastic bulk forming technology for metals that is adequate for shaping the external teeth of important parts. The process parameters of the CRBF process were studied in this work to improve the process performance. Of the CRBF process characteristics, the forming forces, tooth profile angle, surface roughness, and forming efficiency were selected as the target indices to describe the process performance. Single tooth experimental tests of ASTM 1045 steel were conducted with different roll-beating modes, spindle rotation speeds, and feed speeds. Using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis, the influence of the process parameters in each index was investigated, and regression models of each index were established. Then, the linear weighted sum method and compound entropy weight method were used to determine the process parameters for multi-objective optimization. The results show that the impact capacity and optimum value range of the process parameters vary in different indices, and that, to achieve the comprehensive optimum effect of a small forming force, high product quality, and high forming efficiency, the optimal process parameter combination is the up-beating mode, a spindle rotation speed of 801 r/min, and a feed speed of 960 mm/min.
Enhanced Desilication of High Alumina Fly Ash by Combining Physical and Chemical Activation
Authors: Gong Yanbing , Sun Junmin , Sun Shu-Ying , Lu Guozhi , Zhang Ting-An
Published: April 2019

In this work, a physical–chemical activation desilication process was proposed to extract silica from high alumina fly ash (HAFA). The effects of fly ash size, hydrochloric acid concentration, acid activation time, and reaction temperature on the desilication efficiency were investigated comprehensively. The phase and morphology of the original fly ash and desilicated fly ash were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Compared with the traditional desilication process, the physical–chemical activation desilication efficiency is further increased from 38.4% to 53.2% under the optimal conditions. Additionally, the kinetic rules and equations were confirmed by the experimental data fitting with shrinking core model of liquid–solid multiphase reaction. Kinetic studies show that the enhanced desilication process is divided into two processes, and both steps of the two-step reaction is controlled by chemical reaction, and the earlier stage activation energy is 52.05 kJ/mol and the later stage activation energy is 58.45 kJ/mol. The results of mechanism analysis show that physical activation breaks the link between the crystalline phase and the amorphous phase, and then a small amount of alkali-soluble alumina in the amorphous phase is removed by acid activation, thereby suppressing the generation of side reactions of the zeolite phase.
Effect of Artificial Defects on the Very High Cycle Fatigue Behavior of 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Xiong Zhihong , Naoe Takashi , Futakawa Masatoshi
Published: April 2019

Widely used for structural materials in nuclear engineering, 316L austenitic stainless steel undergoes very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) throughout its service life. Since defects caused by service conditions are unavoidable in many engineering components during service life, the effects should be properly understood. In the present study, the effect of surface defects on the VHCF behavior were investigated on solution annealed (SA) and cold-worked (CW) 316L. Surface defects were artificially created using indentation. The VHCF test was conducted using an ultrasonic fatigue testing system. The results showed that the fatigue crack initiation was independent of the indent with the applied range of depth in this research. Furthermore, the critical depth of the indent was evaluated based on an empirical formula (Murakami’s model). In the case of SA 316L, the VHCF strength was not affected when the indent depth was less than 40 μm, which is consistent with the value obtained from the empirical formula. In the case of 20% CW 316L, the VHCF strength was not affected when the indent depth was less than 80 μm. The experimental results, i.e., the critical depth of the indent, were much larger than the results obtained from the empirical formula, and might have been caused by the plastic deformation, residual stress, and probable deformation-induced martensite transition around the indent.
The Metabolomic Signatures of Weight Change
Authors: Vijay Amrita , Valdes Ana M
Published: April 2019

Obesity represents a major health concern, not just in the West but increasingly in low and middle income countries. In order to develop successful strategies for losing weight, it is essential to understand the molecular pathogenesis of weight change. A number of pathways, implicating oxidative stress but also the fundamental regulatory of insulin, have been implicated in weight gain and in the regulation of energy expenditure. In addition, a considerable body of work has highlighted the role of metabolites generated by the gut microbiome, in particular short chain fatty acids, in both processes. The current review provides a brief understanding of the mechanisms underlying the associations of weight change with changes in lipid and amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, dietary composition and insulin dynamics, as well as the influence of the gut microbiome. The changes in metabolomic profiles and the models outlined can be used as an accurate predictor for obesity and obesity related disorders.
Resveratrol and Quercetin Administration Improves Antioxidant DEFENSES and reduces Fatty Liver in Metabolic Syndrome Rats
Authors: Rubio-Ruiz Maria Esther , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Cano-Martínez Agustina , Díaz-Díaz Eulises , Manzano-Pech Linaloe , Gamas-Magaña Anel , Castrejón-Tellez Vicente , Tapia-Cortina Concepción , Pérez-Torres Israel
Published: April 2019

Mixtures of resveratrol (RSV) + quercetin (QRC) have antioxidant properties that probably impact on fatty liver in metabolic syndrome (MS) individuals. Here, we study the effects of a mixture of RSV + QRC on oxidative stress (OS) and fatty liver in a rat model of MS. Weanling male Wistar rats were separated into four groups (n = 8): MS rats with 30% sucrose in drinking water plus RSV + QRC (50 and 0.95 mg/kg/day, respectively), MS rats without treatment, control rats (C), and C rats plus RSV + QRC. MS rats had increased systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, insulin levels, insulin resistance index homeostasis model (HOMA), adiponectin, and leptin. The RSV + QRC mixture compensated these variables to C values (p < 0.01) in MS rats. Lipid peroxidation and carbonylation were increased in MS. Total antioxidant capacity and glutathione (GSH) were decreased in MS and compensated in MS plus RVS + QRC rats. Catalase, superoxide dismutase isoforms, peroxidases, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase, and the expression of Nrf2 were decreased in MS and reversed in MS plus RVS + QRC rats (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the mixture of RSV + QRC has benefic effects on OS in fatty liver in the MS rats through the improvement of the antioxidant capacity and by the over-expression of the master factor Nrf2, which increases the antioxidant enzymes and GSH recycling.
Synthesis and Bio-Evaluation of Natural Butenolides-Acrylate Conjugates
Authors: Bao Longzhu , Wang Shuangshuang , Song Di , Wang Jingjing , Cao Xiufang , Ke Shaoyong
Published: April 2019

A series of novel 3-aryl-4-hydroxy-2(5H) furanone-acrylate hybrids were designed and synthesized based on the natural butenolides and acrylates scaffolds. The structures of the prepared compounds were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), and the bioactivity of the target compounds against twelve phytopathogenic fungi was investigated. The preliminary in vitro antifungal activity screening showed that most of the target compounds had moderate inhibition on various pathogenic fungi at the concentration of 100 mg·L−1, and presented broad-spectrum antifungal activities. Further studies also indicated that compounds 7e and 7k still showed some inhibitory activity against Pestallozzia theae, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Gibberella zeae on rape plants at lower concentrations, which could be optimized as a secondary lead for further research.
Micropropagation of Chaenomeles japonica: A Step towards Production of Polyphenol-rich Extracts Showing Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Kikowska Małgorzata , Włodarczyk Agata , Rewers Monika , Sliwinska Elwira , Studzińska-Sroka Elżbieta , Witkowska-Banaszczak Ewa , Stochmal Anna , Żuchowski Jerzy , Dlugaszewska Jolanta , Thiem Barbara
Published: April 2019

A protocol for C. japonica micropropagation with a confirmation of genome size stability of the in vitro-propagated plantlets was developed. The highest number of shoots multiplied in vitro was obtained on Murashige & Skoog medium (MS) with 1.0 mg L−1 N6-benzyladenine plus 1.0 mg L−1 indole-3-acetic acid. The highest number of roots was observed for the shoots on MS with 15 g L−1 sucrose plus 1.0 mg L−1 indole-3-acetic acid. The acclimatization rate was significantly high. The qualitative HPLC analyses confirmed the presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids in the extracts. The extracts from both shoot cultures and the leaves from field-grown plants revealed antioxidant activity and they exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity. The conducted research confirmed the regeneration potential of genetically-stable plants of C. japonica under in vitro conditions, the ability of the plantlets to produce polyphenols as those present in field-grown plants, as well as their antioxidant potential.
Acid Catalyzed Formation of C–C and C–S Bonds via Excited State Proton Transfer
Authors: Strada Alessandro , Fredditori Mattia , Zanoni Giuseppe , Protti Stefano
Published: April 2019

The behavior of 2-naphthol and 7-bromo-2-naphthol as organic photoacids are exploited in organic synthesis for the preparation of benzyl sulfides (using a trichloroacetimidate derivative as the starting substrate) and polycyclic amines via acid catalyzed condensation of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline with aldehydes.
Target Proteins of Phloretin for Its Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Activities Against Propionibacterium acnes-Induced Skin Infection
Authors: Cheon Dasom , Kim Jieun , Jeon Dasom , Shin Hang-Cheol , Kim Yangmee
Published: April 2019

Phloretin is a natural chalcone with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. This study investigated the anti-acne activity of phloretin against Propionibacterium acnes-induced skin infection and the potential target proteins of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Phloretin potently inhibited the growth of P. acnes and P. acnes-induced Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2-mediated inflammatory signaling in human keratinocytes. Secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase assay confirmed that the anti-inflammatory activity of phloretin is associated with the P. acnes-stimulated TLR2-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway. Phloretin significantly decreased the level of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), showing a binding affinity of 1.184 × 10−5 M−1. We also found that phloretin binds with micromolar affinity to P. acnes β-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III (KAS III), an enzyme involved in fatty acid synthesis. Conformation-sensitive native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that phloretin reduced KAS III-mediated 3-ketoacyl ACP production by over 66%. A docking study revealed that phloretin interacts with the active sites of JNK1 and KAS III, suggesting their involvement in P. acnes-induced inflammation and their potential as targets for the antibacterial activity of phloretin. These results demonstrate that phloretin may be useful in the prevention or treatment of P. acnes infection.
Lactoferrin in Aseptic and Septic Inflammation
Authors: Lepanto Maria Stefania , Rosa Luigi , Paesano Rosalba , Valenti Piera , Cutone Antimo
Published: April 2019

Lactoferrin (Lf), a cationic glycoprotein able to chelate two ferric irons per molecule, is synthesized by exocrine glands and neutrophils. Since the first anti-microbial function attributed to Lf, several activities have been discovered, including the relevant anti-inflammatory one, especially associated to the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as IL-6. As high levels of IL-6 are involved in iron homeostasis disorders, Lf is emerging as a potent regulator of iron and inflammatory homeostasis. Here, the role of Lf against aseptic and septic inflammation has been reviewed. In particular, in the context of aseptic inflammation, as anemia of inflammation, preterm delivery, Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes, Lf administration reduces local and/or systemic inflammation. Moreover, Lf oral administration, by decreasing serum IL-6, reverts iron homeostasis disorders. Regarding septic inflammation occurring in Chlamydia trachomatis infection, cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, Lf, besides the anti-inflammatory activity, exerts a significant activity against bacterial adhesion, invasion and colonization. Lastly, a critical analysis of literature in vitro data reporting contradictory results on the Lf role in inflammatory processes, ranging from pro- to anti-inflammatory activity, highlighted that they depend on cell models, cell metabolic status, stimulatory or infecting agents as well as on Lf iron saturation degree, integrity and purity.
Excited State Frequencies of Chlorophyll f and Chlorophyll a and Evaluation of Displacement through Franck-Condon Progression Calculations
Authors: Zamzam Noura , van Thor Jasper J.
Published: April 2019

We present ground and excited state frequency calculations of the recently discovered extremely red-shifted chlorophyll f. We discuss the experimentally available vibrational mode assignments of chlorophyll f and chlorophyll a which are characterised by particularly large downshifts of 131-keto mode in the excited state. The accuracy of excited state frequencies and their displacements are evaluated by the construction of Franck–Condon (FC) and Herzberg–Teller (HT) progressions at the CAM-B3LYP/6-31G(d) level. Results show that while CAM-B3LYP results are improved relative to B3LYP calculations, the displacements and downshifts of high-frequency modes are underestimated still, and that the progressions calculated for low temperature are dominated by low-frequency modes rather than fingerprint modes that are Resonant Raman active.
Influence of Processing Conditions on the Physicochemical Properties of a New-Type of Nutritional Drink—Millet Skim Milk Beverage
Authors: Pan Minghui , Cao Yungang , Chi Xuelu , Song Zheng , Ai Nasi , Sun Baoguo
Published: April 2019

In this experiment, a new type of nutritional drink—millet skim milk beverage—was developed based on combining skim milk with millet and nutritional resource utilization. The effects of NaHCO3 concentrations in soaking water (0, 0.5 g/100 mL, and 1.0 g/100 mL) and blanching time (0, 15, and 30 min) on the physicochemical properties of millet skim milk were studied. The parameter changes caused by the above treatment were evaluated via color analysis, physicochemical analysis and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Soaking in water containing NaHCO3 had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on pH, specific gravity, viscosity, and stability. The blanching treatment had a significant (p < 0.05) influence on the total solids of the samples. However, blanching only slightly affected the physical properties of the samples. In addition, soaking and blanching treatments had significant (p < 0.05) effects on the b* value of millet skim milk beverage, whereas there was no significant (p > 0.05) change in L* and a*. SDS-PAGE analysis indicated that the blanching treatment had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on band 5 and band 6 and that the soaking treatment also had a significant effect on the bands of 6 and 7 (p < 0.05). By analyzing the substantial effects, we concluded that the optimum process conditions were soaking with 0.5 g/100 mL NaHCO3 solution and blanching for 15 min.
Highly Hydrophilic TiO2 Nanotubes Network by Alkaline Hydrothermal Method for Photocatalysis Degradation of Methyl Orange
Authors: Yang Jin , Du Jun , Li Xiuyun , Liu Yilin , Jiang Chang , Qi Wenqian , Zhang Kai , Gong Cheng , Li Rui , Luo Mei , Peng Hailong
Published: April 2019

High-density and highly cross-coated anatase TiO2 nanotubes networks have been successfully prepared on the surface of Ti foil by alkaline hydrothermal using NaOH and Ti foil as the precursors. The nanotubes networks were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical contact angle tester, and ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence spectrophotometer, respectively. The results showed that the nanotubes network with diameters of 30–50 nm were obtained on the Ti foil surface. The morphology of the nanotubes network possessed the three-dimensional network structure, The TiO2 nanotubes network grew along the (101) direction of the tetragonal anatase crystal. The morphology and crystal phase of the TiO2 nanotubes network were better at the conditions of NaOH concentration 7–10 mol/L and temperature 160–170 °C. The best contact angle of TiO2 nanotubes network after UV-light irradition was only 5.1 ± 2.9°. Under the irradiation of mercury lamp, the nanotubes network exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance and the degradation ratio of methyl orange solution reached to 80.00 ± 2.33%. Thus, the anatase TiO2 nanotubes network has great potential in applications for pollution photocatalytic degradation.
Analysis of the Substrate Effect on the Zero-Backward Scattering Condition of a Cu2O Nanoparticle under Non-Normal Illumination
Authors: Ullah Kaleem , Habib Muhammad , Huang Lujun , Garcia-Camara Braulio
Published: April 2019

The presence of a substrate is one of the most important limitations of the real application of the directional conditions. These conditions allow the control of the spatial distribution of light scattering of nanoparticles. While the zero-forward condition is quite sensitive to any change of the surrounding medium, like the substrate, the zero-backward scattering seems to be less sensitive and very stable under normal illumination. In this letter, the zero-backward scattering condition was investigated on a homogenous Cu2O spherical subwavelength particle, both theoretically and experimentally. In particular, the influence of the substrate and the impinging direction on the angular distribution of light scattering under this directional condition were studied. We observed that the zero-backward scattering condition was also sensitive to the presence of a substrate beneath when a non-normal illumination was considered. We believe that our finding is quite interesting from a practical point of view and for the real implementation of directional scattering in various applications like cloaking, light-emitting devices, photovoltaic devices, bio-sensing, and many more.
Inorganic Boron-Based Nanostructures: Synthesis, Optoelectronic Properties, and Prospective Applications
Authors: Tian Yan , Guo Zekun , Zhang Tong , Lin Haojian , Li Zijuan , Chen Jun , Deng Shaozhi , Liu Fei
Published: April 2019

Inorganic boron-based nanostructures have great potential for field emission (FE), flexible displays, superconductors, and energy storage because of their high melting point, low density, extreme hardness, and good chemical stability. Until now, most researchers have been focused on one-dimensional (1D) boron-based nanostructures (rare-earth boride (REB6) nanowires, boron nanowires, and nanotubes). Currently, two-dimensional (2D) borophene attracts most of the attention, due to its unique physical and chemical properties, which make it quite different from its corresponding bulk counterpart. Here, we offer a comprehensive review on the synthesis methods and optoelectronics properties of inorganic boron-based nanostructures, which are mainly concentrated on 1D rare-earth boride nanowires, boron monoelement nanowires, and nanotubes, as well as 2D borophene and borophane. This review paper is organized as follows. In Section I, the synthesis methods of inorganic boron-based nanostructures are systematically introduced. In Section II, we classify their optical and electrical transport properties (field emission, optical absorption, and photoconductive properties). In the last section, we evaluate the optoelectronic behaviors of the known inorganic boron-based nanostructures and propose their future applications.
Anomalous Elastic Properties of Attraction-Dominated DNA Self-Assembled 2D Films and the Resultant Dynamic Biodetection Signals of Microbeam Sensors
Authors: Wu Junzheng , Zhang Ying , Zhang Nenghui
Published: April 2019

The condensation of DNA helices has been regularly found in cell nucleus, bacterial nucleoids, and viral capsids, and during its relevant biodetections the attractive interactions between DNA helices could not be neglected. In this letter, we theoretically characterize the elastic properties of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) self-assembled 2D films and their multiscale correlations with the dynamic detection signals of DNA-microbeams. The comparison of attraction- and repulsion-dominated DNA films shows that the competition between attractive and repulsive micro-interactions endows dsDNA films in multivalent salt solutions with anomalous elastic properties such as tensile surface stresses and negative moduli; the occurrence of the tensile surface stress for the attraction-dominated DNA self-assembled film reveals the possible physical mechanism of the condensation found in organism. Furthermore, dynamic analyses of a hinged–hinged DNA-microbeam reveal non-monotonous frequency shifts due to attraction- or repulsion-dominated dsDNA adsorptions and dynamic instability occurrence during the detections of repulsion-dominated DNA films. This dynamic instability implies the existence of a sensitive interval of material parameters in which DNA adsorptions will induce a drastic natural frequency shift or a jump of vibration mode even with a tiny variation of the detection conditions. These new insights might provide us some potential guidance to achieve an ultra-highly sensitive biodetection method in the future.
A Novel Bi2MoO6/ZIF-8 Composite for Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Xia Yu , Shang Shao-ke , Zeng Xie-rong , Zhou Ji , Li Ya-yun
Published: April 2019

A series of novel Bi2MoO6/zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) photocatalysts have been successfully fabricated through a facile self-assembly process. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-vis spectrophotometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterized pure Bi2MoO6, pure ZIF-8, and a series of Bi2MoO6/ZIF-8 composites. The result indicated that, when compared with pure Bi2MoO6, the composite of Bi2MoO6/ZIF-8 exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under visible light. Moreover, the Bi2MoO6/ZIF-8-3 composite (the molar ratio of Bi2MoO6 to 2-MI is 3:3) has optimum photocatalytic performance because of the suitable amount of ZIF-8 decorated on the flower-like Bi2MoO6. The enhanced photocatalytic activity is probably due to the introduction of ZIF-8, which will promote the separation of electron–hole pair and the surface morphology. Benefitting from the diversity of the MOF species (ZIF-8 is one of them), this composing strategy of Bi2MoO6/MOF composite would provide new insight into the design of highly efficient visible light photocatalysts.
Hierarchical Porous Carbon Derived from Sichuan Pepper for High-Performance Symmetric Supercapacitor with Decent Rate Capability and Cycling Stability
Authors: Zhang Hengshuo , Xiao Wei , Zhou Wenjie , Chen Shanyong , Zhang Yanhua
Published: April 2019

Hierarchical micro-mesoporous carbon (denoted as HPC-2 in this study) was synthesized by pre-carbonization of biomass Sichuan pepper followed by KOH activation. It possessed well-developed porosity with the specific surface area of 1823.1 m2 g−1 and pore volume of 0.906 cm3 g−1, and exhibited impressive supercapacitive behaviors. For example, the largest specific capacitance of HPC-2 was tested to be ca. 171 F g−1 in a three-electrode setup with outstanding rate capability and stable electrochemical property, whose capacitance retention was near 100% after cycling at rather a high current density of 40 A g−1 for up to 10,000 cycles. Furthermore, a two-electrode symmetric supercapacitor cell of HPC-2//HPC-2 was constructed, which delivered the maximum specific capacitance and energy density of ca. 30 F g−1 and 4.2 Wh kg−1, respectively, had prominent rate performance and cycling stability with negligible capacitance decay after repetitive charge/discharge at a high current density of 10 A g−1 for over 10,000 cycles. Such electrochemical properties of HPC-2 in both three- and two-electrode systems are superior or comparable to those of a great number of porous biomass carbon reported previously, hence making it a promising candidate for the development of high-performance energy storage devices.
Growth Benefits of Own Mother’s Milk in Preterm Infants Fed Daily Individualized Fortified Human Milk
Authors: de Halleux Virginie , Pieltain Catherine , Senterre Thibault , Studzinski Frédéric , Kessen Catheline , Rigo Vincent , Rigo Jacques
Published: April 2019

The influence of types of human milk (HM)—raw own mother’s milk (OMM), pasteurized OMM, and donor milk (DM)—was evaluated for growth in premature infants fed exclusively HM with controlled nutritional intakes using daily individualized HM fortification (IHMF). Growth and nutritional intakes were prospectively collected in preterm infants (<32 weeks) fed IHMF and compared in infants fed predominantly (≥75%) OMM and DM. The influence of HM types (raw OMM, pasteurized OMM, and DM) on growth were also evaluated in the whole population. One-hundred and one preterm infants (birth weight 970 ± 255 g, gestational age 27.8 ± 1.9 weeks) were included. Energy (143 ± 8 vs. 141 ± 6 kcal/kg/day; p = 0.15) and protein intakes (4.17 ± 0.15 vs. 4.15 ± 0.14 g/kg/day; p = 0.51) were similar in both groups. Infants receiving predominantly OMM (n = 37), gained significantly more weight (19.8 ± 2.0 vs. 18.2 ± 2.2 g/kg/day; p = 0.002) and length (1.17 ± 0.26 vs. 0.99 ± 0.36 cm/week; p = 0.020) than those fed predominantly DM (n = 33). Stepwise multivariate analysis (n = 101) suggests that raw OMM was the major determinant of growth, contributing 22.7% of weight gain. Length gain was also related to OMM (raw + pasteurized) intakes, explaining 4.0% of length gain. In conclusion, at daily controlled similar protein and energy intakes, OMM had significant beneficial effects on weight and length versus DM in VLBW infants. This difference could be partially explained by the use of raw OMM.
A Review of A Priori Defined Oxidative Balance Scores Relative to Their Components and Impact on Health Outcomes
Authors: Hernández-Ruiz Ángela , García-Villanova Belén , Guerra-Hernández Eduardo , Amiano Pilar , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Molina-Montes Esther
Published: April 2019

Oxidative Balance Scores (OBSs) are tools that have emerged to evaluate the global balance of individuals’ oxidation—reduction status. The aim was to compare OBSs available in the literature regarding their characteristics and associations with chronic diseases in epidemiological studies. Studies that developed OBSs were searched in PubMed until August 2018. A total of 21 OBSs were identified. These OBSs presented different scoring schemes and different types of anti- and pro-oxidant components, including dietary factors (dietary intake and/or nutrient biomarkers), lifestyle factors, and medications. Most OBSs were based on over 10 components, and some included only dietary factors. Few considered weighted components in the score. Only three OBSs were validated as potential surrogates of oxidative balance through inflammation and OS-related biomarkers. Notably, all the OBSs were associated—to a varying degree—with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, colorectal adenomas, and different cancer types (colorectal and breast cancer), as well as with all-cause and cancer-related mortality. For other outcomes, e.g., prostate cancer, contradictory results were reported. In summary, there is a great heterogeneity in the definition of OBSs. Most studies are concordant in supporting that excessive OS reflected by a lower OBS has deleterious effects on health. Unified criteria for defining the proper OBSs, valuable to gauge OS-related aspects of the diet and lifestyle that may lead to adverse health outcomes, are needed.
Relationship between the Intake of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Depressive Symptoms in Elderly Japanese People: Differences According to Sex and Weight Status
Authors: Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Thi Thu Nguyen Thao , Goto Daisuke , Miyagi Sakae , Kambayashi Yasuhiro , Hara Akinori , Yamada Yohei , Nakamura Haruki , Shimizu Yukari , Hori Daisuke , Suzuki Fumihiko , Hayashi Koichiro , Tamai Satoko , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: April 2019

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been shown to have preventive effects against depression. In this study, we aimed to investigate the associations between the intake of n-3 PUFAs and depression among people according to sex and weight status. We utilized cross-sectional data from the Shika study in Japan. The study was conducted between 2013 and 2016. Data were collected from adults older than 65 years. Invitation letters were distributed to 2677 individuals, 2470 of whom participated in the study (92.3%). We assessed depressive states using the Japanese short version of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). We assessed the intake of n-3 PUFAs using the validated food frequency questionnaire. One thousand six hundred thirty-three participants provided data, among which 327 (20.0%) exhibited depressive symptoms. When we performed the stratified analysis by sex and weight status, there were significant inverse relationships between total n-3 PUFAs, individual n-3 PUFAs, and n-3/n-6 PUFAs ratio and depressive symptoms in overweight/obese females. No correlations were observed between n-3 PUFAs intake and depressive states in males. The results demonstrated a relationship between n-3 PUFAs deficiencies and depressive states, particularly in overweight/obese females. Dietary modifications may help to prevent depressive symptoms in overweight/obese females.
Self-Reported Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity in Brazil: Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of Italian Questionnaire
Authors: Gadelha de Mattos Yanna A. , Puppin Zandonadi Renata , Gandolfi Lenora , Pratesi Riccardo , Yoshio Nakano Eduardo , Pratesi Claudia B.
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, validate, and apply a questionnaire to the Brazilian non-celiac gluten sensitive (NCGS) population. We also aimed to estimate the prevalence of symptoms which affect Brazilian NCGS. The Brazilian Portuguese version of the NCGS questionnaire was developed according to revised international guidelines. Five-hundred-and-fourty-three participants responded the NCGS questionnaire. We evaluated the reproducibility and validity of the questionnaire which presents valid measures of reproducibility. This is the first specific self-reported validated questionnaire for NCGS patients in Brazilian Portuguese, and the first nationwide characterization of self-reported NCGS in Brazilian adults. Most respondents were female (92.3%), and the main intestinal symptoms reported were bloating and abdominal pain. The most frequent extraintestinal symptoms were lack of wellbeing, tiredness, and depression. We expect that the present study will provide a picture of Brazilian individuals with suspected NCGS, which could help health professionals and governmental institutions in developing effective strategies to improve the treatment and diagnosis of Brazilian NCGS.
Protective Effect of Hesperidin on the Oxidative Stress Induced by an Exhausting Exercise in Intensively Trained Rats
Authors: Estruel-Amades Sheila , Massot-Cladera Malén , Garcia-Cerdà Pau , Pérez-Cano Francisco J. , Franch Àngels , Castell Margarida , Camps-Bossacoma Mariona
Published: April 2019

Intensive exercise can lead to oxidative stress, which can be particularly deleterious for lymphoid tissues. Hesperidin has demonstrated its antioxidant activity, but few studies focus on its influence on intensive training. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hesperidin on the oxidant/antioxidant status of lymphoid tissues after an intensive training program. Wistar rats were trained for five weeks (five days per week), including two exhaustion tests plus three trainings per week. During this period, animals were orally administrated with 200 mg/kg of hesperidin or vehicle (three days per week). The oxidative status was determined before, immediately after and 24 h after an additional exhaustion test. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by peritoneal macrophages, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in spleen, thymus and liver, and hepatic glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx) were assessed. Hesperidin prevented an increase in ROS production induced by the additional exhaustion test. Likewise, hesperidin avoided a decrease in SOD and catalase activities in the thymus and spleen that was found after the additional exhaustion test. The antioxidant effects of hesperidin were associated with a higher performance in the assessed training model. These results suggest that hesperidin, acting as an antioxidant, can prevent oxidative stress induced by exercise and improve exercise performance.
Protective Effect of Cashew Gum (Anacardium occidentale L.) on 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Intestinal Mucositis
Authors: Miranda João Antônio Leal de , Barreto João Erivan Façanha , Martins Dainesy Santos , Pimentel Paulo Vitor de Souza , Costa Deiziane Viana da Silva , Silva Reyca Rodrigues e , Souza Luan Kelves Miranda de , Lima Camila Nayane de Carvalho , Rocha Jefferson Almeida , Freitas Ana Paula Fragoso de , Silva Durcilene Alves da , Scafuri Ariel Gustavo , Leitão Renata Ferreira de Carvalho , Brito Gerly Anne de Castro , Medeiros Jand Venes Rolim , Cerqueira Gilberto Santos
Published: April 2019

Intestinal mucositis is a common complication associated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a chemotherapeutic agent used for cancer treatment. Cashew gum (CG) has been reported as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of CG extracted from the exudate of Anacardium occidentale L. on experimental intestinal mucositis induced by 5-FU. Swiss mice were randomly divided into seven groups: Saline, 5-FU, CG 30, CG 60, CG 90, Celecoxib (CLX), and CLX + CG 90 groups. The weight of mice was measured daily. After treatment, the animals were euthanized and segments of the small intestine were collected to evaluate histopathological alterations (morphometric analysis), levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and glutathione (GSH), and immunohistochemical analysis of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). 5-FU induced intense weight loss and reduction in villus height compared to the saline group. CG 90 prevented 5-FU-induced histopathological changes and decreased oxidative stress through decrease of MDA levels and increase of GSH concentration. CG attenuated inflammatory process by decreasing MPO activity, intestinal mastocytosis, and COX-2 expression. Our findings suggest that CG at a concentration of 90 mg/kg reverses the effects of 5-FU-induced intestinal mucositis.