bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of potassium in Myracrodruon urundeuva, Libidibia ferrea and Mimosa tenuiflora seedlings under a short-term water déficit
Authors: Almeida Ediglécia Pereira , Freire Antonio Lucineudo de Oliveira , Bakke Ivonete Alves , Ferreira Cheila Deisy , França George Martins , Batista Antonio Wesly
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of potassium fertilization on Myracrodruon urundeuva, Libidibia ferrea and Mimosa tenuiflora seedlings submitted to a short period of water deficit. Three doses of K (0, 150 and 300 mg dm-3 KCl) and three water regimes (without water deficit, moderate water deficit and severe water deficit) were evaluated. The plants were kept in black plastic bags containing soil from the Caatinga and, 30 days after the beginning of the water regimes, the relative water content (RWC), transpiration (E), stomatal conductance (gs) and photosynthesis (A) were evaluated. High moisture content in the soil was unfavorable to plants, promoting reduction in RWC and gas exchange. The water deficit increase E, gs and A, but the intensity of these responses was variable between species. The water deficit favored L. ferrea, with elevated RWC and reduced alterations in gas exchange, demonstrating its greater tolerance in relation to the others species evaluated, however it was the species most benefited by K. The supply of 300 mg dm-3 of KCl positively influenced the water status and gas exchange of the studied species with an increase in the water deficit. We suggest the development of research subjecting the plants to a longer period of time, in order to establish a better relationship between potassium and the increased tolerance of these plants to water deficit.
Evolution of the content of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and color in organic sugarcane spirit aged in barrels of different woods
Authors: Silva Flávio Alves da , Morais Karla Cristina Rodrigues Cardoso , Ribeiro Keyla Oliveira , Garcia Lismaíra Gonçalves Caixeta , Caliari Márcio
Published: April 2020

During the aging of sugarcane spirit several chemical reactions occur. Therefore the aim of this work was to study the evolution of phenolic content, antioxidant activity and changes in color in organic sugarcane spirit aged in different woods for twelve months. The sugarcane spirit aged in barrels of jatobá showed higher levels of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (277.3 mg EAG.100 g-1 and -7.749 mg.L-1), followed by sassafras (83.8 mg EAG.100 g-1 and -0.299 mg.L-1) and ipê (67.6 mg EAG.100 g-1 and 4.180 mg.L-1). The colorimetric variables (brightness, chroma and metric hue angle) were significantly influenced by the species of the woods.
Quando arte, ciência e política se encontram: uma reflexão sobre a experiência da “Vila dos poetas” como uma práxis Freireana
Authors: Mattos Samuel Miranda , Alencar Olga Maria de , Pereira Francisca Helena Lima , Silva Maria Rocineide Ferreira da
Published: April 2020

O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar a experiência a luz de Paulo Freire acerca de uma vivência realizada em uma vila de moradores do município de Maracanaú-Ceará. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo do tipo relato de experiência. A vivência foi realizada a partir da disciplina educação popular e escola na perspectiva da promoção da saúde do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva da Universidade Estadual do Ceará. A visita ocorreu no segundo semestre de 2018, e foram entrevistados os moradores, no intuito de compreender a visão e perspectiva da educação popular e saúde realizada no ambiente a qual eles residiam. Realizou-se conversas dialógicas utilizando a estratégia de roda de conversa para registrar informações. Pode-se constatar que o estilo de vida dos moradores é de forma compartilhada no qual possibilita a inter(ação) de todos que residem no ambiente em atividades diárias e financeiras. Conclui-se que o ambiente não formal como prática de ensino possibilita conhecimentos e saberes de forma compartilhada e amadurecimento do ser humano enquanto ser social.
Óleos essenciais do gênero Pereskia: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Moraes Thiago Vieira de , Ferreira João Paulo Gonçalves , Moreira Ricardo Felipe Alves
Published: April 2020

Diversos estudos científicos têm revelado propriedades farmacológicas associadas às espécies do gênero Pereskia. Entretanto, até o momento, pouco se conhece sobre a composição química dos óleos essenciais das plantas desse gênero. Dessa forma, este estudo buscou realizar uma revisão bibliométrica e bibliográfica sobre a produção científica relacionada à composição química dos óleos essenciais dessas plantas. As informações utilizadas nesse estudo foram obtidas em diferentes bases de dados disponíveis online. Utilizando descritores específicos, junto à metodologia PRISMA, foram selecionados três estudos científicos (dois artigos e uma dissertação). O diterpeno oxigenado fitol mostrou ser um dos componentes majoritários dos óleos essenciais de ambas as espécies avaliadas: P. grandifolia e P. aculeata. O óxido de manool foi considerado o componente de maior concentração no óleo essencial da P. grandifolia, enquanto que os conteúdos de ácido linoleico e acarona se destacaram nos óleos essenciais da P. aculeata. Foi possível avaliar o agrupamento das amostras do gênero Pereskia, com base na composição química de seus óleos essenciais, com o auxílio da ferramenta de análise multivariada conhecida como ACP (Análise dos Componentes Principais).
Soil organic carbon in a toposequence in the semiarid of Paraíba, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Cheila Deisy , Moreira Francisco Tibério de Alencar , Souto Patrícia Carneiro , Alencar Lyanne dos Santos , Borges César Henrique Alves
Published: April 2020

Organic carbon is a sensible indicator to evaluate the environmental quality of the soil. The objective of this study was to evaluate the organic carbon content of the soil in a toposequence in Serra do Teixeira, municipality of Teixeira, PB. Soil samples were collected in the upper third (UT), upper middle third (UMT), lower middle third (LMT) and lower third (LT) on three depths (0-5, 5-10 and 10-20 cm), with five replicates for each depth, resulting in a total of 60 samples. The organic carbon was evaluated using the methodology of Walkey-Black. Physical and chemical soil analysis were also carried out. The highest mean of carbon content was found in the first 5 cm (19.83 g dm-3), significantly differing from the other depths. It was also observed that the mean content of soil organic carbon on LMT was significantly higher than the other thirds, with 19.39 g dm-3. It is concluded that the highest contents of organic carbon are found on the most superficial layer of the soil. The organic carbon content variations found along the toposequence indicates influence of the relief and the anthropic action.
Using songs for improving students’ pronunciation for the second grade
Authors: Rahmawati Nur Laili Rizky , Yunus Muhammad
Published: April 2020

This research was designed to improve students pronunciation at MTs Almaarif 01 Singosari, Malang through songs. In the preliminary study, the researcher found that the students have trouble pronouncing words correctly and confirmed by the result of their English test in oral test that was 57.20. Besides 43 students were taken in VIII A class at MTs Almaarif 01 Singosari, Malang as the sample of the study, this research consists of two cycles; Cycle One with three meetings and Cycle Two with two meetings. In the planning stage, the researcher designed a lesson plan, preparing material, and formulating the criteria of success. The criteria of success that was 70 or more. Additionally, the first result of Cycle One got 63.25. At the final, the result of Cycle Two showed another increase, there were 71.16. In the research finding, it is concluded that the use of songs in teaching pronunciation can improve the pronunciation of the students. All in all, for the teacher should give English songs according to their level; beginner, intermediate, or advanced, for students are suggested to choose other genre of the song for their learning media, such as jazz, rock, and etc. For future researchers are suggested to conduct similar studies on using songs in a different context, subject, or method.
Impact of oysters as top predators on microbial food web dynamics: a modelling approach with parameter optimisation
Authors: Caillibotte R , Leredde Y , Vidussi F , Ulses C , Marsaleix P , Estournel C , Mostajir B
Published: April 2020

Aquaculture is becoming a relevant and productive source of seafood, and production is expected to double in the near future. However, bivalve activities can significantly impact coastal ecosystem functioning. To study the direct and indirect impacts of oysters on the microbial food web, a 0D biogeochemical modelling approach was adopted. The model was adjusted by parameter optimisation, assimilating data from several mesocosm observations of concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, silicate, dissolved organic carbon, chlorophyll, and bacterial biomass. The optimisation method provided a set of optimal parameters to fit the experimental observations of ‘control’ (i.e. natural water without oysters) and ‘oyster’ (i.e. natural water with oysters) mesocosms. The modelling results showed good accordance with the experimental observations, suggesting that the oysters directly reduced phytoplankton community biomass, thus constraining the ecosystem to a more heterotrophic state. Oysters also reduced competition between bacteria and phytoplankton for nutrient uptake, favouring higher bacterial biomass than in the control experiment. Additionally, the presence of oysters strongly increased large micro-zooplankton biomass (50-200 µm; mainly ciliates and large flagellates). This was a consequence of bacterivory by small zooplankton (5-50 µm; mostly flagellates and small ciliates), providing a trophic link between bacteria and larger zooplankton. In conclusion, parameter optimisation showed good capacity to manage experimental data in order to build a more realistic model. Such models, in connection with future developments in aquaculture and global change scenarios, could be a promising tool for exploited ecosystem management and testing different environmental scenarios.
PENGARUH ORGANIC SOIL TREATMENT (OST) DAN SELANG WAKTU APLIKASI LARUTAN LANDETO TERHADAP HASIL BAWANG MERAH PADA REGOSOL
Authors: Settings Jeanne I Nendissa  , Nonce Wattimena
Published: April 2020

This research was intended to determine the rate of Organic Soil Treatment (OST) and the interval of application of Landeto solution or their interaction on the growth of shallots grown in the regosol soil. This research was conducted in the green house of Departement of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture Gadjah Mada University. A Randomized Complete Block Design, employing a factorial treatment was chosen. The first factors was rates of OST, i.e,: 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 ton ha?. The second factors was interval of application of Landeto Solution, i.e, : 3, 5 and 7 days. The combination treatments were repeated 3 times. Results of the research showed that; 1) Intermedien between rates of OST at 6 ton ha? and interval of application of Landeto solution ot 5 days, was found in bulb number per hills ( 29.87, cm2 ) respectively. 2) Application of OST, at 6 ton ha? had a significant effect on the plant fresh weight and the fresh bulb weigth, 3) Application of Landeto solution at different intervals had no significant effect on all components and crop yield.
PENERAPAN BIOTEKNOLOGI DALAM EKSTRAKSI MINYAK KELAPA DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN KHAMIR ROTI (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
Authors: Leta
Published: April 2020

This research is aimed for knowing the influence of temperature, pH, and their interaction on the amount and quality of oils formed in fermentative extraction of coconut oil using bakers, yeast the treatment examined temperature divided into four treatments, pH divided into two treatments, and three repetitions. All treatment in this research met SII. The research result show that: (1) Treatment of temperatures give different effects on the amount of oils, temperatures of 350C and 300C produced the highest amount of oil, give different effects on water content, temperatures of 300C and 350C resulted in the lowest amount of water content, gave different effect on iodine number, and on lathering number, temperature of 350C resulted in the lowest number, did not give different effects on the level of free-fats acid. (2) Treatment of pH did not give different effect on the amount of oil, on water content but give different effect on iodine number, on lathering number, pH of 4 was lower the pH of 4.5. (3) Interaction of treatments of temperatures and pHs give different effect on the amount of oil, temperatures of 350C with pH of 4 and temperatures of 300C with pH 4 produced highest amount of oil, give different effect on water content, temperature of 300C with the pH of 4.5 resulted in the lowest amount of water content, the temperature of 250C with pH 4.5 produced high water content (0.55%), temperature 300C with pH 4.5 resulted in the lowest peroxide number. It gives different effect on the content of free fats acid, produced oil whit bright colour, good taste and smell and it was not immediately rancid.
PEMODELAN DAYA TAHAN BELAJAR MAHASISWA PENDIDIKAN TINGGI JARAK JAUH DENGAN PENDEKATAN REGRESI LOGISTIK BINER (STUDI KASUS: MAHASISWA FAKULTAS EKONOMI JURUSAN MANAJEMEN)
Authors: Ratnaningsih Dewi Juliah
Published: April 2020

Students’ persistence is the ability of students to survive in carrying out the study. In Universitas Terbuka (UT), there are no real dropped out student, but there are considered as non-active or non persistence students. Length of study time among UT’s students can be divided into binary data categories, which are valued as persistence (1) and non persistence (0). Logistic regression analysis is one type of statistical data analysis to be used for binary data. The purposes of writing this article are to identify the factors which influence the length of study time among students of the Department of Management, Faculty of Economics in UT, and to determine appropriate model in order to explain the relationship between the response variables (length of study time) with explanatory variables using logistic regression. The method used in this research is a case study with a number of samples as 2,936 college students. The result of the study shows that the factors influence the length of study time with alpha levels 0.05 are: age, the number of the courses taken, the employment status of the student, the participation in tutorials, the first semester achievement index, and the cumulative grade point.
Smartphone Addiction and Its Relationship with Depression in University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kunt Muammer , Demir Lutfi Saltuk , Tuncez Ismail Hakkı , Şahin Tahir Kemal
Published: April 2020

Aim: This study was aimed to determine the risk factors and at-risk prevalence for smartphone addiction, and also investigate the relationship between smartphone addiction and depression in Necmettin Erbakan University students.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 509 students who were enrolled in Necmettin Erbakan University, between March 1 and June 15, 2017. Together with the questionnaire form which was prepared by researchers after literature review, Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version and Beck Depression Inventory were applied to the participants under supervision.
Results: At-risk prevalence for smartphone addiction in the participants was 46.4%. There were statistically significant differences between the at-risk prevalence for smartphone addiction and gender, age, class they attended, daily smartphone use time, to use or not to use social network sites on smartphone, most used social network sites on smartphone, place of residence and most frequently purpose of smartphone usage. Of the participants, 31.4% were at risk for depression. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the at-risk prevalences for smartphone addiction and depression at a weak level.
Conclusion: This study results showed that there are considerable numbers of university students who are at risk for smartphone addiction and depression. For more accurate results about smartphone addiction and depression relationship further clinical researches should be done.
Keywords: addiction, depression, mobile phone, students, universities
The Relationship Between Perceived Social Support and Life Satisfaction in Elderly Individuals: A Field Study
Authors: Türkseven Erdem , Öner Can , Çetin Hüseyin , Şimşek Engin Ersin
Published: April 2020

Aim: The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between perceived social support and life satisfaction.

Methods: The cross - sectional and descriptive study was carried out between the dates of 01.11.2018 - 30.01.2019 among the elderly living in Adalar District of Istanbul. In the data collection phase, the volunteer consent form, sociodemographic information form, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Life Satisfaction Scale were applied to the sample group.

Results: 383 people participated in this study. 47.8% were male and 52.2% were female. The mean Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support scores of the participants were 4.7±1.55 points (min-max: 1-7 points). The mean Life Satisfaction Scale score of the participants was calculated as 23.2±5.8 (min-max: 5-35 points). There was a weak significant positive correlation between Life Satisfaction Scale scores and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support total score. There was a weak significant positive correlation between the Life Satisfaction Scale score and each sub-heading scores of Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. While 8.4% of the participants had an insufficient life satisfaction, 20.6% had a life satisfaction slightly below the average.

Conclusion: As the social support perceived by the participants increases, life satisfaction increases significantly.

Keywords: elderly, social support, personal satisfaction
Quality Assurance of International Fruit Supply Chains via Techno-Management
Authors: Rodjanatham Tippawong , Rabgyal Tenzin
Published: April 2020

Fruit plays an important role in tropical horticulture and has high commercial value in domestic and international markets. There are several factors affecting the quality of fruit in the supply chain, including type of fruit, storage, distribution, harvesting, and packaging. This research was conducted to analyze the current situation regarding quality assurance in the international supply chain of tropical fruits by developing a tool to assess the level of quality assurance and chain collaboration. A techno-managerial approach was used in this research; therefore, a three-axes model was developed as the techno-managerial model. The three axes consist of degree of quality assurance, classes of fruit (regarding risk of chemical residue and quality deterioration), and degree of chain collaboration. For this study, five situations were chosen at random by considering the different degrees (from lowest degree to highest degree) of quality assurance and chain collaboration for each class of fruit. The results show that 10%–60% of importers require their suppliers to comply with quality assurance standards in Situation 1 (low-risk fruits, low degree of quality assurance, and low degree of chain collaboration) and Situation 2 (medium-risk fruits, low degree of quality assurance, and low degree of chain collaboration). Almost 100% of imported fruits have permeable peels which are removed before consumption. This group of fruit has medium-high perishable rate. With different types of fruits, the importers set different requirements with respect to quality assurance. Regarding chain participation, the most common situation is Situation 1 (more than 60%), in which the retailer has the biggest influence. The most common situation for suppliers who supply the product to import companies falls into Situation 2. This means that most of the commodities have permeable peels, so the suppliers follow the basic quality assurance standards and are at the low level in chain co-operation. Lastly, considering the usefulness of the model, it can be employed as a good tool in assessing the situation in practice.
Monitoring of Namibian Encroacher Bush Using Computer Vision
Authors: Marggraff Pascal , Venter Martin Philip
Published: April 2020

In Namibia, the encroachment by a native, but invasive bush on Savannah land leads to both environmental and economic loss. This invasive bush is, however, suitable for harvesting as a source of biomass for local industry. Harvesting biomass from the invasive bush has been shown to restore biodiversity, improve water conservation efforts, and restore grazing lands. Beyond the environmental benefits of removing the invasive bush, the raw biomass harvested is amenable to simple value-added production. Although some efforts are underway to make use of harvested biomass, current harvesting practices are not selective enough to meet governmental requirements intended to protect several species of local fauna and flora. Limitations, such as a lack of knowledge, during the harvesting process, can be overcome to a significant degree through the introduction of a smart application. This can integrate geographical context with computer vision to provide a ground-level tool for the identification of areas suitable for harvesting. This study shows that this tool can identify indigenous taxonomies with an accuracy of 76%.
TIE2 Induces Breast Cancer Cell Dormancy and Inhibits the Development of Osteolytic Bone Metastases
Authors: Drescher Florian , Juárez Patricia , Arellano Danna L. , Serafín-Higuera Nicolás , Olvera-Rodriguez Felipe , Jiménez Samanta , Licea-Navarro Alexei F. , Fournier Pierrick G.J.
Published: April 2020

Breast cancer (BCa) cells disseminating to the bone can remain dormant and resistant to treatments for many years until relapsing as bone metastases. The tyrosine kinase receptor TIE2 induces the dormancy of hematopoietic stem cells, and could also induce the dormancy of BCa cells. However, TIE2 is also a target for anti-angiogenic treatments in ongoing clinical trials, and its inhibition could then restart the proliferation of dormant BCa cells in bone. In this study, we used a combination of patient data, in vitro, and in vivo models to investigate the effect of TIE2 in the dormancy of bone metastases. In BCa patients, we found that a higher TIE2 expression is associated with an increased time to metastases and survival. In vitro, TIE2 decreased cell proliferation as it increased the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors CDKN1A and CDKN1B and arrested cells in the G0/G1 phase. Expression of TIE2 also increased the resistance to the chemotherapeutic 5-Fluorouracil. In mice, TIE2 expression reduced tumor growth and the formation of osteolytic bone metastasis. Together, these results show that TIE2 is sufficient to induce dormancy in vitro and in vivo, and could be a useful prognostic marker for patients. Our data also suggest being cautious when using TIE2 inhibitors in the clinic, as they could awaken dormant disseminated tumor cells.
Disruption of Glycogen Utilization Markedly Improves the Efficacy of Carboplatin against Preclinical Models of Clear Cell Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Khan Tashbib , He Yaowu , Kryza Thomas , Harrington Brittney S. , Gunter Jennifer H. , Sullivan Mitchell A. , Cuda Tahleesa , Rogers Rebecca , Davies Claire M. , Broomfield Amy , Gough Madeline , Wu Andy C. , McGann Thomas , Weroha S. John , Haluska Paul , Forbes Josephine M. , Armes Jane E. , Barry Sinead C. , Coward Jermaine I. , Jagasia Nisha , Chetty Naven , Snell Cameron E. , Lourie Rohan , Perrin Lewis C. , Hooper John D.
Published: April 2020

High stage and recurrent ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCC) are associated with poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapy. A distinguishing histological feature of OCC is abundant cytoplasmic stores of glucose, in the form of glycogen, that can be mobilized for cellular metabolism. Here, we report the effect on preclinical models of OCC of disrupting glycogen utilization using the glucose analogue 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG). At concentrations significantly lower than previously reported for other cancers, 2DG markedly improves the efficacy in vitro of carboplatin chemotherapy against chemo-sensitive TOV21G and chemo-resistant OVTOKO OCC cell lines, and this is accompanied by the depletion of glycogen. Of note, 2DG doses—of more than 10-fold lower than previously reported for other cancers—significantly improve the efficacy of carboplatin against cell line and patient-derived xenograft models in mice that mimic the chemo-responsiveness of OCC. These findings are encouraging, in that 2DG doses, which are substantially lower than previously reported to cause adverse events in cancer patients, can safely and significantly improve the efficacy of carboplatin against OCC. Our results thus justify clinical trials to evaluate whether low dose 2DG improves the efficacy of carboplatin in OCC patients.
Cold-Sprayed Al6061 Coatings: Online Spray Monitoring and Influence of Process Parameters on Coating Properties
Authors: Koivuluoto Heli , Larjo Jussi , Marini Danilo , Pulci Giovanni , Marra Francesco
Published: April 2020

Process optimization and quality control are important issues in cold spraying and coating development. Because the cold spray processing is based on high kinetic energy by high particle velocities, online spray monitoring of particle inflight properties can be used as an assisting process tool. Particle velocities, their positions in the spray jet, and particle size measurements give valuable information about spraying conditions. This, in turn, improves reproducibility and reliability of coating production. This study focuses on cold spraying of Al6061 material and the connections between particle inflight properties and coating characteristics such as structures and mechanical properties. Furthermore, novel 2D velocity scan maps done with the HW CS2 online spray monitoring system are presented as an advantageous powder and spray condition controlling tool. Cold spray processing conditions were similar using different process parameters, confirmed with the online spray monitoring prior to coating production. Higher particle velocities led to higher particle deformation and thus, higher coating quality, denser structures, and improved adhesions. Also, deposition efficiency increased significantly by using higher particle velocities.
Survey on Decentralized Fingerprinting Solutions: Copyright Protection through Piracy Tracing
Authors: Megías David , Kuribayashi Minoru , Qureshi Amna
Published: April 2020

Copyright protection is one of the most relevant challenges in the network society. This paper focuses on digital fingerprinting, a technology that facilitates the tracing of the source of an illegal redistribution, making it possible for the copyright holder to take legal action in case of copyright violation. The paper reviews recent digital fingerprinting solutions that are available for two particularly relevant scenarios: peer-to-peer distribution networks and broadcasting. After analyzing those solutions, a discussion is carried out to highlight the properties and the limitations of those techniques. Finally, some directions for further research on this topic are suggested.
Binary Central Stars of Planetary Nebulae
Authors: Jones David
Published: April 2020

It is now clear that a vast majority of intermediate-mass stars have stellar and/or sub-stellar companions, therefore it is no longer appropriate to consider planetary nebulae as a single-star phenomenon, although some single, isolated stars may well lead to planetary nebulae. As such, while understanding binary evolution is critical for furthering our knowledge of planetary nebulae, the converse is also true: planetary nebulae can be valuable tools with which to probe binary evolution. In this brief review, I attempt to summarise some of our current understanding with regards to the role of binarity in the formation of planetary nebulae, and the areas in which continued study of planetary nebulae may have wider ramifications for our grasp on the fundaments of binary evolution.
Gaia DR2 Distances to Planetary Nebulae
Authors: González-Santamaría Iker , Manteiga Minia , Manchado Arturo , Ulla Ana , Dafonte Carlos
Published: April 2020

The aim of this work is to examine distances to planetary nebulae (PNe) together with other properties that were derived from them, using the astrometry of Gaia Data Release 2 (DR2). We were able to identify 1571 objects classified as PNe, for which we assumed distances calculated following a Bayesian statistical approach. From those objects, we selected a sample of PNe with good quality parallax measurements and distance derivations, which we called Golden Astrometry PNe sample (GAPN). In this paper we will review the physical properties of the stars and nebulae in this subsample of PNe.
The Contribution of Astrocyte Autophagy to Systemic Metabolism
Authors: Ortiz-Rodriguez Ana , Arevalo Maria-Angeles
Published: April 2020

Autophagy is an essential mechanism to maintain cellular homeostasis. Besides its role in controlling the quality of cytoplasmic components, it participates in nutrient obtaining and lipid mobilization under stressful conditions. Furthermore, autophagy is involved in the regulation of systemic metabolism as its blockade in hypothalamic neurons can affect the central regulation of metabolism and impact body energy balance. Moreover, hypothalamic autophagy can be altered during obesity, one of the main alterations of metabolism nowadays. In this review, we focus on the role of astrocytes, essential cells for brain homeostasis, which represent key metabolic regulators. Astrocytes can sense metabolic signals in the hypothalamus and modulate systemic functions as glucose homeostasis and feeding response. Moreover, the response of astrocytes to obesity has been widely studied. Astrocytes are important mediators of brain inflammation and can be affected by increased levels of saturated fatty acids associated with obesity. Although autophagy plays important roles for astrocyte homeostasis and functioning, the contribution of astrocyte autophagy to systemic metabolism has not been analyzed yet. Furthermore, how obesity can impact astrocyte autophagy is poorly understood. More studies are needed in order to understand the contribution of astrocyte autophagy to metabolism.
The Basic Properties of Gold Nanoparticles and their Applications in Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Bai Xue , Wang Yueying , Song Zhiyun , Feng Yanmin , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhang Deyuan , Feng Lin
Published: April 2020

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been widely studied and applied in the field of tumor diagnosis and treatment because of their special fundamental properties. In order to make AuNPs more suitable for tumor diagnosis and treatment, their natural properties and the interrelationships between these properties should be systematically and profoundly understood. The natural properties of AuNPs were discussed from two aspects: physical and chemical. Among the physical properties of AuNPs, localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), radioactivity and high X-ray absorption coefficient are widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors. As an advantage over many other nanoparticles in chemicals, AuNPs can form stable chemical bonds with S-and N-containing groups. This allows AuNPs to attach to a wide variety of organic ligands or polymers with a specific function. These surface modifications endow AuNPs with outstanding biocompatibility, targeting and drug delivery capabilities. In this review, we systematically summarized the physicochemical properties of AuNPs and their intrinsic relationships. Then the latest research advancements and the developments of basic research and clinical trials using these properties are summarized. Further, the difficulties to be overcome and possible solutions in the process from basic laboratory research to clinical application are discussed. Finally, the possibility of applying the results to clinical trials was estimated. We hope to provide a reference for peer researchers to better utilize the excellent physicochemical properties of gold nanoparticles in oncotherapy.
Effects of Temperature on Fluidity and Early Expansion Characteristics of Cement Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Zeng Xiaohui , Zhu Huasheng , Lan Xuli , Liu Haichuan , Umar H.A , Xie Youjun , Long Guangcheng , Ma Cong
Published: April 2020

In order to solve the problems of the sudden loss of fluidity and low expansion rate of CAM I (cement asphalt mortar type I) in a construction site with high environmental temperature, this paper studies the effect of temperature on the fluidity, expansion ratio and pH value of CAM I. The mechanism of action was analyzed by IR (infrared spectrometry), SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and other test methods. The results showed that a high temperature accelerates aluminate formation in cement paste. Aluminate adsorbs emulsifiers leading to demulsification of emulsified asphalt, and wrapped on the surface of cement particles, this causes CAM I to lose its fluidity rapidly. The aluminum powder gasification reaction is inhibited, resulting in an abnormal change in the expansion ratio. Based on findings, the application of an appropriate amount of superplasticizers can effectively improve the workability and expansion characteristics of CAM I at a high temperature.
Development of Equivalent Beam Model of High Burnup Spent Nuclear Fuel Rods under Lateral Impact Loading
Authors: Lee Sanghoon , Kim Seyeon
Published: April 2020

Spent nuclear fuel (SNF) is nuclear fuel that has been irradiated and discharged from nuclear reactors. During the whole management stages of SNF before it is, in the end, disposed in a deep geological repository, the structural integrity of fuel rods and the assemblies should be maintained for safety and economic reasons. In licensing applications for the SNF storage and transportation, the integrity of SNF needs to be evaluated considering various loading conditions. However, this is a challenging task due to the complexity of the geometry and properties of SNF. In this paper, a simple and equivalent analysis model for SNF rods is developed using model calibration based on optimization and process integration. The spent fuel rod is simplified into a hollow beam with a homogenous isotropic material, and the model parameters thus found are not dependent on the length of the reference fuel rod segment that is considered. Two distinct models with different interfacial conditions between the fuel pellets and cladding are used in the calibration to account for the effect of PCMI (Pellet-Clad Mechanical Interaction). The feasibility of the models in dynamic impact simulations is examined, and it is expected that the developed models can be utilized in the analysis of assembly-level analyses for the SNF integrity assessment during transportation and storage.
Nucleophilic Substitution at Tetracoordinate Sulfur. Kinetics and Mechanism of the Chloride-Chloride Exchange Reaction in Arenesulfonyl Chlorides: Counterintuitive Acceleration of Substitution at Sulfonyl Sulfur by ortho-Alkyl Groups and Its Origin
Authors: Mikołajczyk Marian , Gajl Monika , Błaszczyk Jarosław , Cypryk Marek , Gostyński Bartłomiej
Published: April 2020

The chloride-chloride exchange reaction in arenesulfonyl chlorides was investigated experimentally and theoretically by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The second order rate constants and activation parameters of this identity reaction were determined for 22 variously substituted arenesulfonyl chlorides using radio-labeled Et4N36Cl. The chloride exchange rates of 11 sulfonyl chlorides bearing para-and meta-substituents (σ constants from −0.66 to +0.43) in the aromatic ring followed the Hammett equation with a ρ-value of +2.02. The mono- and di-ortho-alkyl substituted sulfonyl chlorides exhibit an enhanced reactivity although both inductive and steric effects lower the reaction rate. The DFT calculations of their structures together with X-ray data showed that an increased reactivity is mainly due to a peculiar, rigid, strongly compressed and sterically congested structure. The DFT studies of the title reaction revealed that it proceeds via a single transition state according to the SN2 mechanism. The analogous fluoride exchange reaction occurs according to the addition–elimination mechanism (A–E) and formation of a difluorosulfurandioxide intermediate. The reliability of the calculations performed was supported by the fact that the calculated relative rate constants and activation parameters correlate well with the experimental kinetic data.
A Theoretical Study on Trehalose + Water Mixtures for Dry Preservation Purposes
Authors: Kumar Amit , Cincotti Alberto , Aparicio Santiago
Published: April 2020

The properties of trehalose + water mixtures are studied as a function of mixture composition and temperature using molecular dynamics simulations. As trehalose disaccharide has been proposed for dry preservation purposes, the objective of this work is to analyse the nanoscopic properties of the considered mixtures, in terms of aggregation, clustering, interactions energies, and local dynamics, and their relationships with hydrogen bonding. The reported results allow a detailed characterization of hydrogen bonding and its evolution with mixture composition and thus inferring the effects of trehalose on water structuring providing results to justify the mechanisms of trehalose acting as preservation agent.
Exploring the Polymorphism of Drostanolone Propionate
Authors: Borodi Gheorghe , Turza Alexandru , Bende Attila
Published: April 2020

2α-Methyl-4,5α-dihydrotestosterone 17β-propionate, known as drostanolone propionate or masteron, is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid derived from dihydrotestosterone. The crystal structures of two polymorphs of drostanolone propionate have been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction and both crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. One is belonging to the P21 space group, Z = 2, and has one molecule in the asymmetric unit while the second belongs to the I2 space group, Z = 4, and contains two molecules in the asymmetric unit. Another polymorph has been investigated by an X-ray powder diffraction method and solved by Parallel tempering/Monte Carlo technique and refined with the Rietveld method. This polymorph crystallizes in the orthorhombic P212121 space group, Z = 4 having one molecule in the asymmetric unit. The structural configuration analysis shows that the A, B, and C steroid rings exist as chair geometry, while ring D adopts a C13 distorted envelope configuration in all structures. For all polymorphs, the lattice energy has been computed by CLP (Coulomb-London-Pauli), and tight-binding density functional theory methods. Local electron correlation methods were used to estimate the role of electron correlation in the magnitude of the dimer energies. The nature of the intermolecular interactions has been analyzed by the SAPT0 energy decomposition methods as well as by Hirshfeld surfaces.
Unusual Polyhydroxylated Steroids from the Starfish Anthenoides laevigatus, Collected off the Coastal Waters of Vietnam
Authors: Kicha Alla A. , Ha Dinh T. , Malyarenko Timofey V. , Kalinovsky Anatoly I. , Popov Roman S. , Malyarenko Olesya S. , Thuy Tran T. T. , Long Pham Q. , Ha Nguyen T. T. , Ivanchina Natalia V.
Published: April 2020

Four new polyhydroxylated steroids 1–4 were isolated along with two previously known related steroids 5 and 6 from the methanolic extract of the starfish Anthenoides laevigatus collected off the coastal waters of Vietnam. Structures of new compounds were substantially elucidated by one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) NMR spectroscopy and HRESIMS techniques. Heptaol 1 and hexaol 2 contain the common 5α-cholestane skeleton, while hexaol 3 and heptaol 4 have the rare among starfish steroid compounds 5β-cholestane skeleton. Compounds 1, 5, and 6 do not show cytotoxic effects against normal JB6 Cl41 and cancer HT-29 and MDA-MB-231 cells, however they inhibit cell proliferation and colony formation of cancer HT-29 and MDA-MB-231 cells.
Kinetic Isotope Effects and Hydrogen Tunnelling in PCET Oxidations of Ascorbate: New Insights into Aqueous Chemistry?
Authors: Karković Marković Ana , Jakobušić Brala Cvijeta , Pilepić Viktor , Uršić Stanko
Published: April 2020

Recent experimental studies of kinetic isotope effects (KIE-s) and hydrogen tunnelling comprising three proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) oxidations of ascorbate monoanion, (a) in aqueous reaction solutions, (b) in the mixed water-organic cosolvent systems, (c) in aqueous solutions of various salts and (d) in fairly diluted aqueous solutions of the various partial hydrophobes are reviewed. A number of new insights into the wealth of the kinetic isotope phenomena in the PCET reactions have been obtained. The modulation of KIE-s and hydrogen tunnelling observed when partially hydrophobic solutes are added into water reaction solution, in the case of fairly diluted solutions is revealed as the strong linear correlation of the isotopic ratios of the Arrhenius prefactors Ah/Ad and the isotopic differences in activation energies ΔEa (D,H). The observation has been proposed to be a signature of the involvement of the collective intermolecular excitonic vibrational dynamics of water in activation processes and aqueous chemistry.
Brassica incana Ten. (Brassicaceae): Phenolic Constituents, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Properties of the Leaf and Flowering Top Extracts
Authors: Miceli Natalizia , Cavò Emilia , Ragusa Monica , Cacciola Francesco , Mondello Luigi , Dugo Laura , Acquaviva Rosaria , Malfa Giuseppe Antonio , Marino Andreana , D’Arrigo Manuela , Taviano Maria Fernanda
Published: April 2020

Brassica incana Ten. is an edible plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. In this work, the phenolic composition and the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of the hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from the leaves and the flowering tops of B. incana grown wild in Sicily (Italy) were studied for the first time. A total of 17 and 20 polyphenolic compounds were identified in the leaf and in the flowering top extracts, respectively, by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS analysis. Brassica incana extracts showed in vitro antioxidant properties; the leaf extract displayed greater radical scavenging activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test than the flowering top extract (IC50 = 1.306 ± 0.049 mg/mL and 2.077 ± 0.011 mg/mL), which in turn had a stronger ferrous ion chelating ability than the other (IC50 = 0.232 ± 0.002 mg/mL and 1.147 ± 0.016 mg/mL). The cytotoxicity of the extracts against human colorectal adenocarcinoma (CaCo-2) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines was evaluated through the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) release determination. The extracts showed cytotoxic efficacy against Caco-2 cells, with the flowering top extract being the most effective (about 90% activity at the highest concentration tested). In the brine shrimp lethality bioassay, the extracts exhibited no toxicity, indicating their potential safety.
Antagonists of Vitamin K—Popular Coumarin Drugs and New Synthetic and Natural Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Kasperkiewicz Kinga , Ponczek Michał B. , Owczarek Jacek , Guga Piotr , Budzisz Elżbieta
Published: April 2020

Many natural coumarins and their chemically synthesized analogs and derivatives exert diverse properties, such as anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or anticoagulant, with the latter being of the utmost importance. The widely used warfarin, acenocoumarol, and phenprocoumon exert anticoagulant properties by inhibiting the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex. In this interdisciplinary review, we present biochemical principles of the coagulation processes and possible methods for their tuning based on the use of coumarins. We also summarize chemical methods of synthesis of coumarins and discuss structures and properties of those that have been used for a long time, as well as newly synthesized compounds. Brief information on the clinical use of coumarins and other anticoagulant drugs is given, including the severe effects of overdosing and methods for reversing their action.
Microwave Assisted Synthesis of 4-Phenylquinazolin-2(1H)-one Derivatives that Inhibit Vasopressor Tonus in Rat Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Teixeira Rafaela , Menengat Talita , Andrade Gabriel , Cotrim Bruno , Ponte Cristiano , Santos Wilson C. , Resende Gabriel
Published: April 2020

Quinazolinones have pharmacological effects on vascular reactivity through different mechanisms. We synthesized 4-phenylquinazolin-2(1H)-one derivatives under microwave irradiation and tested them on the rat thoracic aorta. The prepared compounds 2a–2f were obtained in about 1 h with suitable yields (31–92%). All derivatives produced vasorelaxant effects with IC50 values ranging from 3.41 ± 0.65 µM to 39.72 ± 6.77 µM. Compounds 2c, 2e and 2f demonstrated the highest potency in endothelium-intact aorta rings (IC50 4.31 ± 0.90 µM, 4.94 ± 1.21 µM and 3.41 ± 0.65 µM respectively), and they achieved around 90% relaxation (30 μM). In aorta rings without an endothelium, the effect of compound 2f was abolished. Using the MTT assay to test for cell viability, only compound 2b induced cytotoxicity at the maximum concentration employed (30 µM). The results show that vasorelaxation by 4-phenylquinazolin-2(1H)-one derivatives might depend on the activation of a signalling pathway triggered by endothelium-derived factors.
A Powdered Simulant of Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP) for Safe Testing of X-ray Transmission Screening Equipment
Authors: Vahčič Mitja , Anderson David , Seghers John , Leys Hanne , Ruiz Oses Miguel , Rarata Grzegorz , Fernández García Maximino , Prados Román Rosana , Pellico Escudero Daniel
Published: April 2020

Explosives detection systems (EDS) based on X-ray are used at airports to screen baggage for the presence of explosives. Once EDS are installed in airports, however, it can be challenging to test the EDS equipment and verify that it continues to perform at the highest level, because of the impracticality of introducing bulk explosives into civil aviation airports. The problem is particularly acute for sensitive homemade explosives, such as triacetone triperoxide (TATP). This paper describes our work to develop a safe, accurate and stable simulant for TATP for EDS based on X-ray transmission. Bulk quantities of TATP were synthesised and characterised especially for this project, and we describe the unique challenges and safety considerations of collecting this data. Our calculations show that the expanded measurement uncertainty with a coverage factor of k = 2 is 5.7% for bulk density and 1.0% for Zeff at 24 months.