bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operation Testing of an Advanced Personalized Ventilation System
Authors: Csáky Imre , Kalmár Tünde , Kalmár Ferend
Published: April 2019

Using personalized ventilation systems in office buildings, important energy saving might be obtained, which may improve the indoor air quality and thermal comfort sensation of occupants at the same time. In this paper, the operation testing results of an advanced personalized ventilation system are presented. Eleven different air terminal devices were analyzed. Based on the obtained air velocities and turbulence intensities, one was chosen to perform thermal comfort experiments with subjects. It was shown that, in the case of elevated indoor temperatures, the thermal comfort sensation can be improved considerably. A series of measurements were carried out in order to determine the background noise level and the noise generated by the personalized ventilation system. It was shown that further developments of the air distribution system are needed.
The Impact of Different Management Scenarios on the Availability of Potential Forest Habitats for Wildlife on a Landscape Level: The Case of the Black Stork Ciconia nigra (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Banaś Jan , Zięba Stanisław , Bujoczek Małgorzata , Bujoczek Leszek
Published: April 2019

This study analyzed the effects of various forest management scenarios on habitats of the black stork, which has very specific requirements: it needs extensive forest complexes with a significant proportion of old trees for nesting, and bodies of water for foraging. The relationship between different forest management scenarios and the presence of black storks was examined in a large forest complex (9641 ha of managed stands) surrounded by wetland areas. A simulation of forest development under three management regimes was performed for eighteen 10-year periods. Management scenarios differed in terms of the species composition of stands, rotation age, retention tree areas, and silvicultural treatments. The basic scenario was characterized by a species composition consistent with natural-type stands, but with higher proportions of Scots pine and oak, with rotation ages of 100 and 140 years, respectively, managed by the shelterwood system. The productive scenario featured monospecific stands with a dominance of Scots pine with a rotation age of 90 years, harvested by clearcutting. Finally, the long rotation scenario introduced mixed tree stands with a long rotation age (110 and 180 years for Scots pine and oak, respectively). As compared to the basic scenario, the total harvest volume was greater by 14.6% in the productive scenario and smaller by 16.2% in the long rotation scenario. The availability of habitats for black stork changed as a result of different species compositions and age structures of tree stands. A considerable decrease in rotation age (below 100 years) and the elimination of oak trees from stands in the productive scenario adversely affected potential habitats for black stork. On the other hand, the factors favorable to black stork habitats were a long rotation age, the presence of oak in stands, the application of shelterwood cutting, and the use of retention trees in the long rotation scenario. This scenario would probably also benefit other bird species legally protected under the European Union’s Birds Directive.
A Comparison of Burned Area Time Series in the Alaskan Boreal Forests from Different Remote Sensing Products
Authors: Moreno-Ruiz José A. , García-Lázaro José R. , Arbelo Manuel , Riaño David
Published: April 2019

Alaska’s boreal region stores large amounts of carbon both in its woodlands and in the grounds that sustain them. Any alteration to the fire system that has naturally regulated the region’s ecology for centuries poses a concern regarding global climate change. Satellite-based remote sensors are key to analyzing those spatial and temporal patterns of fire occurrence. This paper compiles four burned area (BA) time series based on remote sensing imagery for the Alaska region between 1982–2015: Burned Areas Boundaries Dataset-Monitoring Trends in Burn Severity (BABD-MTBS) derived from Landsat sensors, Fire Climate Change Initiative (Fire_CCI) (2001–2015) and Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Direct Broadcast Monthly Burned Area Product (MCD64A1) (2000–2015) with MODIS data, and Burned Area-Long-Term Data Record (BA-LTDR) using Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer LTDR (AVHRR-LTDR) dataset. All products were analyzed and compared against one another, and their accuracy was assessed through reference data obtained by the Alaskan Fire Service (AFS). The BABD-MTBS product, with the highest spatial resolution (30 m), shows the best overall estimation of BA (81%), however, for the years before 2000 (pre-MODIS era), the BA sensed by this product was only 44.3%, against the 55.5% obtained by the BA-LTDR product with a lower spatial resolution (5 km). In contrast, for the MODIS era (after 2000), BABD-MTBS virtually matches the reference data (98.5%), while the other three time series showed similar results of around 60%. Based on the theoretical limits of their corresponding Pareto boundaries, the lower resolution BA products could be improved, although those based on MODIS data are currently limited by the algorithm’s reliance on the active fire MODIS product, with a 1 km nominal spatial resolution. The large inter-annual variation found in the commission and omission errors in this study suggests that for a fair assessment of the accuracy of any BA product, all available reference data for space and time should be considered and should not be carried out by selective sampling.
Detection of Additives and Chemical Contaminants in Turmeric Powder Using FT-IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Dhakal Sagar , Schmidt Walter F. , Kim Moon , Tang Xiuying , Peng Yankun , Chao Kuanglin
Published: April 2019

Yellow turmeric (Curcuma longa) is widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes, and as a dietary supplement. Due to the commercial popularity of C. longa, economic adulteration and contamination with botanical additives and chemical substances has increased. This study used FT-IR spectroscopy for identifying and estimating white turmeric (Curcuma zedoaria), and Sudan Red G dye mixed with yellow turmeric powder. Fifty replicates of yellow turmeric—Sudan Red mixed samples (1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% Sudan Red, w/w) and fifty replicates of yellow turmeric—white turmeric mixed samples (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% white turmeric, w/w) were prepared. The IR spectra of the pure compounds and mixtures were analyzed. The 748 cm−1 Sudan Red peak and the 1078 cm−1 white turmeric peak were used as spectral fingerprints. A partial least square regression (PLSR) model was developed for each mixture type to estimate adulteration concentrations. The coefficient of determination (R2v) for the Sudan Red mixture model was 0.97 with a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) equal to 1.3%. R2v and RMSEP for the white turmeric model were 0.95 and 3.0%, respectively. Our results indicate that the method developed in this study can be used to identify and quantify yellow turmeric powder adulteration.
Changes in the Selected Antioxidant Defense Parameters in the Blood of Patients after High Resolution Computed Tomography
Authors: Bryll Amira , Krzyściak Wirginia , Jurczak Anna , Chrzan Robert , Lizoń Anna , Urbanik Andrzej
Published: April 2019

Ionizing radiation generated during high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scanning may have an indirect effect on the mechanisms regulating the oxidative-antioxidant balance in the human body, which is one of the necessary factors ensuring the maintenance of its homeostasis. The aim of the study was to analyze the response of antioxidant systems through the determination of the antioxidant markers in the blood of patients exposed to oxidative stress resulting from the routine HRCT examination of the chest. Blood of 35 people aged 60.77 ± 10.81 taken before and at four time points after the examination constituted the test material. The determination of the total antioxidant capacity expressed as ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and ferric reducing antioxidant activity and ascorbic acid concentration (FRASC) were performed together with an examination of catalase activity and the concentration of the reduced glutathione. The organism’s response to ionizing radiation was associated with a significant decrease in the antioxidant markers’ levels at all time-points and showed a significant negative correlation depending on the radiation dose. Visible down-regulation of these markers is a response to increased oxidative stress. In light of the obtained results, the measurement of the selected markers of antioxidant defense may be a useful parameter of oxidative stress caused by ionizing radiation.
Food-Related Health Emergency-Disaster Risk Reduction in Rural Ethnic Minority Communities: A Pilot Study of Knowledge, Awareness and Practice of Food Labelling and Salt-intake Reduction in a Kunge Community in China
Authors: Chan Emily Ying Yang , Lam Holly Ching Yu , Lo Eugene Siu Kai , Tsang Sophine Nok Sze , Yung Tony Ka Chun , Wong Carol Ka Po
Published: April 2019

Food safety and unhealthy dietary pattern are important global health problems. Understanding food-related health needs and providing corresponding support are important to health risk reduction. A needs assessment, education intervention for food labelling, and another intervention for salt-intake reduction were conducted in a rural Kunge community in Yunnan, China in 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Not checking the expiry date of packaged food (37.1%) and a high salt diet (53.9%) were the most common problems in the community. Both topics were selected for education intervention. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires were used to evaluate the effectiveness. Education interventions were found effective in improving food-health-related knowledge, changing attitudes toward behaviors such as willingness to read food labels before buying and consuming packaged food. However, no significant improvements were found for the attitudes toward not consuming expired food, controlling salt-intake, and decreasing the consumption of cured food. Health education was shown to be effective in promoting food-health-related knowledge but was limited in changing relevant behaviors in a rural ethnic minority community.
Distribution and Influencing Factors of Airborne Bacteria in Public Facilities Used by Pollution-Sensitive Population: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cho Eun-Min , Hong Hyong Jin , Park Si Hyun , Yoon Dan Ki , Nam Goung Sun Ju , Lee Cheol Min
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to support management of airborne bacteria in facilities used by pollution-sensitive individuals (in daycares, medical facilities, elder care facilities, and postnatal care centers). A field survey was conducted on 11 facilities from October 2017 to April 2018. Elder care facilities in industrial, urban, and forested areas were excluded. Two indoor, and one outdoor, measuring points were selected per facility. These points were located in areas most often used by the residents. Measurements were taken at random time-points before February 2018 and at specific times in the morning and afternoon thereafter. The relationships among bacterial counts, carbon dioxide concentrations, dust levels, temperature, relative humidity, and ventilation were examined. The pooled average bacterial counts at the daycares, medical facilities, elder care facilities, and postnatal care centers were 540.25 CFU m−3, 245.49 CFU m−3, 149.63 CFU m−3, and 169.65 CFU m−3, respectively. Considering the upper 95% confidence interval, the bacterial counts in many daycares may in fact be >800 CFU m−3, which is the threshold set by the Korean Ministry of the Environment. The pooled average indoor: outdoor bacterial count ratio was 1.13. Indoor airborne bacterial counts were influenced mainly by their sources. This study found no significant correlations among indoor temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide concentration, dust levels, and airborne bacterial counts, unlike previous studies. Airborne bacteria management at daycares should be a top priority. The sources of airborne bacteria must also be identified, and a management plan must be developed to control them.
Multifunctional Coating to Simultaneously Encapsulate Drug and Prevent Infection of Radiopaque Agent
Authors: Li Jiaying , Wang Huan , Guo Qianping , Zhu Caihong , Zhu Xuesong , Han Fengxuan , Yang Huilin , Li Bin
Published: April 2019

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cements have been widely used in clinical practices. In order to enhance PMMA’s imaging performance to facilitate surgical procedures, a supplementation of radiopaque agent is needed. However, PMMA bone cements are still facing problems of loosening and bacterial infection. In this study, a multifunctional coating to simultaneously encapsulate drug and prevent the infection of radiopaque agent has been developed. Barium sulfate (BaSO4), a common radiopaque agent, is used as a substrate material. We successfully fabricated porous BaSO4 microparticles, then modified with hexakis-(6-iodo-6-deoxy)-alpha-cyclodextrin (I-CD) and silver (Ag) to obtain porous BaSO4@PDA/I-CD/Ag microparticles. The porous nature and presence of PDA coating and I-CD on the surface of microparticles result in efficient loading and release of drugs such as protein. Meanwhile, the radiopacity of BaSO4@PDA/I-CD/Ag microparticles is enhanced by this multifunctional coating containing Ba, I and Ag. PMMA bone cements containing BaSO4@PDA/I-CD/Ag microparticles show 99% antibacterial rate against both Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia Coli (E. coli), yet without apparently affecting its biocompatibility. Together, this multifunctional coating possessing enhanced radiopacity, controlled drug delivery capability and exceptional antibacterial performance, may be a new way to modify radiopaque agents for bone cements.
Down-Regulation of MHC Class I Expression in Human Keratinocytes Using Viral Vectors Containing US11 Gene of Human Cytomegalovirus and Cultivation on Bovine Collagen-Elastin Matrix (Matriderm®): Potential Approach for an Immune-Privileged Skin Substitute
Authors: Schlottmann Frederik , Strauss Sarah , Hake Kevin , Vogt Peter M. , Bucan Vesna
Published: April 2019

Skin transplantation, especially in burn patients, is still challenging because surgeons are faced with limited disposability of autologous donor side material. The in vitro culture of keratinocytes has become an important reconstructive option. However, only non-immunogenic allogenic keratinocytes offer the opportunity to develop a skin graft that can overcome rejection. The purpose of the study was to develop targeted gene modification of keratinocytes in order to reduce immunogenicity for the use as allogenic transplantable skin graft by decreasing the expression of MHC class I. To reduce MHC class I expression, viral vectors containing the US11 gene of human cytomegalovirus were generated and tested on their functionality using Western blotting, indirect immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry. Transfected keratinocytes were seeded on commercially available bovine collagen-elastin matrices and further cultured for histological and cell survival assays. Results showed transient down-regulation of MHC class I after 24 h post-transfection, with recovery of MHC class I expression after 48 h. Histological assessments showed long-term cell survival as well as histological patterns comparable to epidermal layers of healthy human skin. The data postulates the potential application of US11 transfected keratinocytes as an approach towards an immune-privileged skin substitute. Nevertheless, further studies and data are needed.
Natural Killer Immunotherapy for Minimal Residual Disease Eradication Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Hattori Norimichi , Nakamaki Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2019

The most common cause of death in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is AML relapse. Therefore, additive therapies post allo-HSCT have significant potential to prevent relapse. Natural killer (NK)-cell-based immunotherapies can be incorporated into the therapeutic armamentarium for the eradication of AML cells post allo-HSCT. In recent studies, NK cell-based immunotherapies, the use of adoptive NK cells, NK cells in combination with cytokines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific and trispecific killer cell engagers, and chimeric antigen receptor-engineered NK cells have all shown antitumor activity in AML patients. In this review, we will discuss the current strategies with these NK cell-based immunotherapies as possible therapies to cure AML patients post allo-HSCT. Additionally, we will discuss various means of immune escape in order to further understand the mechanism of NK cell-based immunotherapies against AML.
Rescoring and Linearly Combining: A Highly Effective Consensus Strategy for Virtual Screening Campaigns
Authors: Pedretti Alessandro , Mazzolari Angelica , Gervasoni Silvia , Vistoli Giulio
Published: April 2019

The study proposes a novel consensus strategy based on linear combinations of different docking scores to be used in the evaluation of virtual screening campaigns. The consensus models are generated by applying the recently proposed Enrichment Factor Optimization (EFO) method, which develops the linear equations by exhaustively combining the available docking scores and by optimizing the resulting enrichment factors. The performances of such a consensus strategy were evaluated by simulating the entire Directory of Useful Decoys (DUD datasets). In detail, the poses were initially generated by the PLANTS docking program and then rescored by ReScore+ with and without the minimization of the complexes. The so calculated scores were then used to generate the mentioned consensus models including two or three different scoring functions. The reliability of the generated models was assessed by a per target validation as performed by default by the EFO approach. The encouraging performances of the here proposed consensus strategy are emphasized by the average increase of the 17% in the Top 1% enrichment factor (EF) values when comparing the single best score with the linear combination of three scores. Specifically, kinases offer a truly convincing demonstration of the efficacy of the here proposed consensus strategy since their Top 1% EF average ranges from 6.4 when using the single best performing primary score to 23.5 when linearly combining scoring functions. The beneficial effects of this consensus approach are clearly noticeable even when considering the entire DUD datasets as evidenced by the area under the curve (AUC) averages revealing a 14% increase when combining three scores. The reached AUC values compare very well with those reported in literature by an extended set of recent benchmarking studies and the three-variable models afford the highest AUC average.
Flavonoids and Insulin-Resistance: From Molecular Evidences to Clinical Trials
Authors: Russo Benedetta , Picconi Fabiana , Malandrucco Ilaria , Frontoni Simona
Published: April 2019

Insulin-resistance is one of the main factors responsible for the onset and progression of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Among all polyphenols, the effects of flavonoids and their main food sources on insulin sensitivity have been widely evaluated in molecular and clinical studies. The aim of this review is to analyse the data observed in vitro, in vivo and in clinical trials concerning the effects of flavonoids on insulin resistance and to determine the molecular mechanisms with which flavonoids interact with insulin signaling.
Regulation of Autophagy by Nuclear GAPDH and Its Aggregates in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Butera Giovanna , Mullappilly Nidula , Masetto Francesca , Palmieri Marta , Scupoli Maria Teresa , Pacchiana Raffaella , Donadelli Massimo
Published: April 2019

Several studies indicate that the cytosolic enzyme glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) has pleiotropic functions independent of its canonical role in glycolysis. The GAPDH functional diversity is mainly due to post-translational modifications in different amino acid residues or due to protein–protein interactions altering its localization from cytosol to nucleus, mitochondria or extracellular microenvironment. Non-glycolytic functions of GAPDH include the regulation of cell death, autophagy, DNA repair and RNA export, and they are observed in physiological and pathological conditions as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In disease, the knowledge of the mechanisms regarding GAPDH-mediated cell death is becoming fundamental for the identification of novel therapies. Here, we elucidate the correlation between autophagy and GAPDH in cancer, describing the molecular mechanisms involved and its impact in cancer development. Since autophagy is a degradative pathway associated with the regulation of cell death, we discuss recent evidence supporting GAPDH as a therapeutic target for autophagy regulation in cancer therapy. Furthermore, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and the cellular effects of GAPDH aggregates, which are correlated with mitochondrial malfunctions and can be considered a potential therapeutic target for various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Inhibition of Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Kinase β Is Detrimental in Hypoxia–Ischemia Neonatal Brain Injury
Authors: Min Jia-Wei , Bu Fan , Qi Li , Munshi Yashasvee , Kim Gab Seok , Marrelli Sean P. , McCullough Louise D. , Li Jun
Published: April 2019

Neonatal hypoxia–ischemia (HI) is a major cause of death and disability in neonates. HI leads to a dramatic rise in intracellular calcium levels, which was originally thought to be detrimental to the brain. However, it has been increasingly recognized that this calcium signaling may also play an important protective role after injury by triggering endogenous neuroprotective pathways. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKK β) is a major kinase activated by elevated levels of intracellular calcium. Here we evaluated the functional role of CaMKK β in neonatal mice after HI in both acute and chronic survival experiments. Postnatal day ten wild-type (WT) and CaMKK β knockout (KO) mouse male pups were subjected to unilateral carotid artery ligation, followed by 40 min of hypoxia (10% O2 in N2). STO-609, a CaMKK inhibitor, was administered intraperitoneally to WT mice at 5 minutes after HI. TTC (2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride monohydrate) staining was used to assess infarct volume 24 h after HI. CaMKK β KO mice had larger infarct volume than WT mice and STO-609 increased the infarct volume in WT mice after HI. In chronic survival experiments, WT mice treated with STO-609 showed increased tissue loss in the ipsilateral hemisphere three weeks after HI. Furthermore, when compared with vehicle-treated mice, they showed poorer functional recovery during the three week survival period, as measured by the wire hang test and corner test. Loss of blood–brain barrier proteins, a reduction in survival protein (Bcl-2), and an increase in pro-apoptotic protein Bax were also seen after HI with CaMKK β inhibition. In conclusion, inhibition of CaMKK β exacerbated neonatal hypoxia–ischemia injury in mice. Our data suggests that enhancing CaMKK signaling could be a potential target for the treatment of hypoxic–ischemic brain injury.
Expression and Function of Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 Ion Channels in the Caudal Nucleus of the Solitary Tract
Authors: Feng Lin , Uteshev Victor V. , Premkumar Louis S.
Published: April 2019

The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) receives visceral information via the solitary tract (ST) that comprises the sensory components of the cranial nerves VII, IX and X. The Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) ion channels are non-selective cation channels that are expressed primarily in pain-related sensory neurons and nerve fibers. Thus, TRPA1 expressed in the primary sensory afferents may modulate the function of second order NTS neurons. This hypothesis was tested and confirmed in the present study using acute brainstem slices and caudal NTS neurons by RT-PCR, immunostaining and patch-clamp electrophysiology. The expression of TRPA1 was detected in presynaptic locations, but not the somata of caudal NTS neurons that did not express TRPA1 mRNA or proteins. Moreover, caudal NTS neurons did not show somatodendritic responsiveness to TRPA1 agonists, while TRPA1 immunostaining was detected only in the afferent fibers. Electrophysiological recordings detected activation of presynaptic TRPA1 in glutamatergic terminals synapsing on caudal NTS neurons evidenced by the enhanced glutamatergic synaptic neurotransmission in the presence of TRPA1 agonists. The requirement of TRPA1 for modulation of spontaneous synaptic activity was confirmed using TRPA1 knockout mice where TRPA1 agonists failed to alter synaptic efficacy. Thus, this study provides the first evidence of the TRPA1-dependent modulation of the primary afferent inputs to the caudal NTS. These results suggest that the second order caudal NTS neurons act as a TRPA1-dependent interface for visceral noxious-innocuous integration at the level of the caudal brainstem.
Interplay Between SOX9, Wnt/β-Catenin and Androgen Receptor Signaling in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Khurana Namrata , Sikka Suresh C.
Published: April 2019

Androgen receptor (AR) signaling plays a key role not only in the initiation of prostate cancer (PCa) but also in its transition to aggressive and invasive castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, the crosstalk of AR with other signaling pathways contributes significantly to the emergence and growth of CRPC. Wnt/β-catenin signaling facilitates ductal morphogenesis in fetal prostate and its anomalous expression has been linked with PCa. β-catenin has also been reported to form complex with AR and thus augment AR signaling in PCa. The transcription factor SOX9 has been shown to be the driving force of aggressive and invasive PCa cells and regulate AR expression in PCa cells. Furthermore, SOX9 has also been shown to propel PCa by the reactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In this review, we discuss the critical role of SOX9/AR/Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis in the development and progression of CRPC. The phytochemicals like sulforaphane and curcumin that can concurrently target SOX9, AR and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in PCa may thus be beneficial in the chemoprevention of PCa.
Metabolome and Transcriptome Association Analysis Reveals Dynamic Regulation of Purine Metabolism and Flavonoid Synthesis in Transdifferentiation during Somatic Embryogenesis in Cotton
Authors: Guo Huihui , Guo Haixia , Zhang Li , Tang Zhengmin , Yu Xiaoman , Wu Jianfei , Zeng Fanchang
Published: April 2019

Plant regeneration via somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a key step during genetic engineering. In the current study, integrated widely targeted metabolomics and RNA sequencing were performed to investigate the dynamic metabolic and transcriptional profiling of cotton SE. Our data revealed that a total of 581 metabolites were present in nonembryogenic staged calli (NEC), primary embryogenic calli (PEC), and initiation staged globular embryos (GE). Of the differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), nucleotides, and lipids were specifically accumulated during embryogenic differentiation, whereas flavones and hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives were accumulated during somatic embryo development. Additionally, metabolites related to purine metabolism were significantly enriched in PEC vs. NEC, whereas in GE vs. PEC, DAMs were remarkably associated with flavonoid biosynthesis. An association analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome data indicated that purine metabolism and flavonoid biosynthesis were co-mapped based on the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) database. Moreover, purine metabolism-related genes associated with signal recognition, transcription, stress, and lipid binding were significantly upregulated. Moreover, several classic somatic embryogenesis (SE) genes were highly correlated with their corresponding metabolites that were involved in purine metabolism and flavonoid biosynthesis. The current study identified a series of potential metabolites and corresponding genes responsible for SE transdifferentiation, which provides a valuable foundation for a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying cell totipotency at the molecular and biochemical levels.
Assessment of Double-Hybrid Density Functional Theory for Magnetic Exchange Coupling in Manganese Complexes
Authors: Pantazis Dimitrios A.
Published: April 2019

Molecular systems containing magnetically interacting (exchange-coupled) manganese ions are important in catalysis, biomimetic chemistry, and molecular magnetism. The reliable prediction of exchange coupling constants with quantum chemical methods is key for tracing the relationships between structure and magnetic properties in these systems. Density functional theory (DFT) in the broken-symmetry approach has been employed extensively for this purpose and hybrid functionals with moderate levels of Hartree–Fock exchange admixture have often been shown to perform adequately. Double-hybrid density functionals that introduce a second-order perturbational contribution to the Kohn–Sham energy are generally regarded as a superior approach for most molecular properties, but their performance remains unexplored for exchange-coupled manganese systems. An assessment of various double-hybrid functionals for the prediction of exchange coupling constants is presented here using a set of experimentally characterized dinuclear manganese complexes that cover a wide range of exchange coupling situations. Double-hybrid functionals perform more uniformly compared to conventional DFT methods, but they fail to deliver improved accuracy or reliability in the prediction of exchange coupling constants. Reparametrized double-hybrid density functionals (DHDFs) perform no better, and most often worse, than the original B2-PLYP double-hybrid method. All DHDFs are surpassed by the hybrid-meta-generalized gradient approximation (GGA) TPSSh functional. Possible directions for future methodological developments are discussed.
Characteristics of 5015 Salivary Gland Neoplasms Registered in the Hiroshima Tumor Tissue Registry over a Period of 39 Years
Authors: Sentani Kazuhiro , Ogawa Ikuko , Ozasa Kotaro , Sadakane Atsuko , Utada Mai , Tsuya Takafumi , Kajihara Hiroki , Yonehara Shuji , Takeshima Yukio , Yasui Wataru
Published: April 2019

Salivary gland neoplasms are uncommon, and their epidemiology in Japan has not been well described. We conducted a retrospective review of salivary gland tumors registered in the Hiroshima Tumor Tissue Registry over a period of 39 years. The subjects were 5015 cases ranging in age from 6 to 97 (mean, 54.3) years old. The incidence of both benign tumors and malignant tumors increased with age until 60–69 years and then declined. Among the 5015 salivary gland neoplasms, 3998 (80%) were benign and 1017 (20%) were malignant. Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) was the most frequent benign tumor (68%), followed by Warthin tumor (26%). Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) (27%) and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) (26%) were the two most frequent malignant tumors. Characteristically, there was a very low incidence of polymorphous adenocarcinoma in Japan. The average annual age-adjusted incidence rate per 100,000 population was 3.3 for benign tumors and 0.8 for malignant tumors. This is the large-scale multi-institutional analysis to describe the characteristics of salivary gland neoplasms, based on the pathological tissue registry data. We hope that the present data can contribute to early diagnosis and effective treatment of salivary gland tumors and to cancer prevention.
Propofol Requirement in Patients with Growth Hormone-Secreting Pituitary Tumors Undergoing Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Kim Seung Hyun , Kim Namo , Kim Eui Hyun , Suh Sungmin , Choi Seung Ho
Published: April 2019

Growth hormone (GH) secretion is regulated by various hormones or neurotransmitters, including gamma-aminobutyric acid. The aim of this study was to determine the propofol requirement in patients with GH-secreting pituitary tumors undergoing transsphenoidal surgery. General anesthesia was induced in 60 patients with GH-secreting tumors (GH group, n = 30) or nonfunctioning pituitary tumors (NF group, n = 30) using an effect-site target-controlled intravenous propofol infusion. The effect-site concentrations were recorded at both a loss of consciousness and a bispectral index (BIS) of 40, along with the effect-site concentration after extubation, during emergence from the anesthesia. The effect-site concentration of propofol was higher in the GH group than in the NF group at a loss of consciousness and a BIS of 40 (4.09 ± 0.81 vs. 3.58 ± 0.67, p = 0.009 and 6.23 ± 1.29 vs. 5.50 ± 1.13, p = 0.025, respectively) and immediately after extubation (1.60 ± 0.27 vs. 1.40 ± 0.41, p = 0.046). The total doses of propofol and remifentanil during anesthesia were comparable between the groups (127.56 ± 29.25 vs. 108.64 ± 43.16 µg/kg/min, p = 0.052 and 6.67 ± 2.89 vs. 7.05 ± 1.96 µg/kg/h, p = 0.550, respectively). The propofol requirement for the induction of a loss of consciousness and the achievement of a BIS of 40 is increased during the induction of general anesthesia in patients with GH-secreting tumors.
The Immune Activity of PT-Peptide Derived from Anti-Lipopolysaccharide Factor of the Swimming Crab Portunus trituberculatus Is Enhanced when Encapsulated in Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Lee Bao-Hong , Chen Bo-Rui , Huang Cheng-Ting , Lin Cheng-Hui
Published: April 2019

PT-peptide is derived from the anti-lipopolysaccharide factor of the swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus. The peptide, consisting of 34 amino acids, contains a lipopolysaccharide binding domain. In this study, we investigated the effect of PT-peptide encapsulated in raw milk-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), designated as EVs-PT peptide, on immune regulation. The results showed that raw milk-derived EVs efficaciously delivered the PT-peptide into monocytes and elevated immune activity, including reactive oxygen species level, superoxide anion production, and phagocytosis. PT-peptide and EVs-PT peptide also elevated the secretion of cytokines, such as interferon-γ, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in human monocytic THP-1 cells. These results suggest that the PT-peptide could be developed as an immune stimulator.
Pain in Advanced Stages of Dementia: The Perspective of Medical Students
Authors: Neumann-Podczaska Agnieszka , Tobis Slawomir , Yermukhanova Lyudmila , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

Background and objective: The number of studies related to medical students’ attitude toward pain is limited. The aim of our study was, thus, to assess the medical students’ knowledge of pain assessment and treatment in advanced stages of dementia in order to improve the existing curriculum in this area. Material and methods: We analyzed the medical students’ knowledge about pain in advanced dementia based on a short questionnaire. The research was anonymous. The questionnaire was completed by 147 students. Results: The students most often suggested that pain in patients with advanced dementia could be manifested via body language and facial expression (107 students—72.8% and 100 students—68.0%, respectively). Vocalization was the third most frequently reported pain manifestation (84–57.1%). Other groups of pain symptoms (changes in activity patterns, changes in interpersonal interactions, and mental status changes) were indicated less often (p < 0.0001). Only five students (3.4%) listed the DOLOPLUS behavioral pain scale as an assessment tool for patients with advanced dementia, and 16 (10.9%) indicated observational scale elements or a necessity to observe the patient. Still, 110 students (74.5%) correctly characterized pain treatment in patients with advanced dementia. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, our study is pioneering in defining the deficits of medical students’ knowledge on pain assessment and treatment in patients with advanced dementia. We highlighted knowledge gaps in the area of pain assessment which might make medical students incapable of proper pain treatment. Following the International Association for the Study of Pain considerations regarding the need for excellence in pain education, these results can contribute to the improvement of existing medical curricula in Poznan University of Medical Sciences to include pain management in dementia in a more ”patient-centered” way in order to increase future staff’s competency and to assure a better quality of care.
Investigating the Difference in Mechanical Stability of Retained Austenite in Bainitic and Martensitic High-Carbon Bearing Steels using in situ Neutron Diffraction and Crystal Plasticity Modeling
Authors: Voothaluru Rohit , Bedekar Vikram , Yu Dunji , Xie Qingge , An Ke , Pauskar Praveen , Hyde R. Scott
Published: April 2019

In situ neutron diffraction of the uniaxial tension test was used to study the effect of the surrounding matrix microstructure on the mechanical stability of retained austenite in high-carbon bearing steels. Comparing the samples with bainitic microstructures to those with martensitic ones, it was found that the retained austenite in a bainitic matrix starts transforming into martensite at a lower strain compared to that within a martensitic matrix. On the other hand, the rate of transformation of the austenite was found to be higher within a martensitic microstructure. Crystal plasticity modeling was used to analyze the transformation phenomenon in these two microstructures and determine the effect of the surrounding microstructure on elastic, plastic, and transformation components of the strain. The results showed that the predominant difference in the deformation accumulated was from the transformation strain and the critical transformation driving force within the two microstructures. The retained austenite was more stable for identical loading conditions in case of martensitic matrix compared to the bainitic one. It was also observed that the initial volume fraction of retained austenite within the bainitic matrix would alter the onset of transformation to martensite, but not the rate of transformation.
Hexagonal Closed-Packed Precipitation Enhancement in a NbTiHfZr Refractory High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Ma Yueli , Wu Shiwei , Jia Yuefei , Hu Pengfei , Bu Yeqiang , Chen Xiangru , Wang Gang , Liu Jiabin , Wang Hongtao , Zhai Qijie
Published: April 2019

A NbTiHfZr high-entropy alloy (HEA) with a main phase of body-centered cubic structure is fabricated. Some hexagonal closed-packed (hcp) precipitates are observed in this alloy. A thermal-mechanical process, i.e., cold-rolling followed by annealing, can manipulate the volume fraction of the hcp nano-precipitates that can enhance strength and ductility. The enhancement is tailorable as a function of the volume fraction of the hcp nano-precipitate. The results indicate that the strength-ductility property can be manipulated via adjusting post-deformation heat-treatment methods, which provide a new strategy by utilizing metastability at high-temperature to design high strength refractory HEAs (RHEAs) without lost in ductility.
The Mechanism of Position-Mode Side Guide in Correcting Camber in Roughing Process of a Hot Strip Mill
Authors: Hsu Han-Kai , Aoh Jong-Ning
Published: April 2019

The mechanism of the position-mode side guide in correcting slab centerline profile and camber in the roughing process of a hot strip mill (HSM) was analyzed using finite element simulation. The finite element model was established based on the actual size of the roughing mill and on the actual actuating time sequence of the roughing mill in China Steel Corporation (CSC), Kaohsiung. This work could be the first to give an insight into the mechanism of side guides in correcting the slab camber. Time sequence analysis was explored to visualize the progress of centerline profile variation and the interaction between the slab and the related roughing mill components at different moments. The history of reaction forces exerted on the slab was analyzed to explain the interaction between roughing mill components and the slab. The effect of the separation distance of side guide and the effect of the slab wedge on the centerline profile was investigated. A schematic model illustrating the reactions and the resulting moments exerted on the slab was created. By examining the force history, the cross-sectional strain/stress distribution, and the roll force across the horizontal roller, the correcting mechanism of the side guide could be elucidated. The simulation results provide further knowledge in selection and dimension design of side guide to improve the effectiveness of side guide in correcting the slab profile.
Antibacterial Activity and Mechanisms of Essential Oil from Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis
Authors: Li Ze-Hua , Cai Ming , Liu Yuan-Shuai , Sun Pei-Long , Luo Shao-Lei
Published: April 2019

In this work, antibacterial activity of finger citron essential oil (FCEO, Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis) and its mechanism against food-borne bacteria were evaluated. A total of 28 components in the oil were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, in which limonene (45.36%), γ-terpinene (21.23%), and dodecanoic acid (7.52%) were three main components. For in vitro antibacterial tests, FCEO exhibited moderately antibacterial activity against common food-borne bacteria: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Micrococcus luteus. It showed a better bactericidal effect on Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative. Mechanisms of the antibacterial action were investigated by observing changes of bacteria morphology according to scanning electron microscopy, time-kill analysis, and permeability of cell and membrane integrity. Morphology of tested bacteria was changed and damaged more seriously with increased concentration and exposure time of FCEO. FCEO showed a significant reduction effect on the growth rate of surviving bacteria and lead to lysis of the cell wall, intracellular ingredient leakage, and consequently, cell death.
Ultrasound-Assisted Heterogeneous Synthesis of Bio-Based Oligo-Isosorbide Glycidyl Ethers: Towards Greener Epoxy Precursors
Authors: Musa Corentin , Danjou Pierre-Edouard , Pauwels Antoine , Cazier-Dennin Francine , Delattre François
Published: April 2019

The substitution of toxic precursors such as bisphenol A by renewable and safer molecules has become a major challenge. To overcome this challenge, the 12 principles of green chemistry should be taken into account in the development of future sustainable chemicals and processes. In this context, this paper reports the highly efficient synthesis of oligo-isosorbide glycidyl ethers from bio-based starting materials by a rapid one-pot heterogeneous ultrasound-assisted synthesis. It was demonstrated that the use of high-power ultrasound in solvent-free conditions with sodium hydroxide microbeads led for the first time to a fully epoxidated prepolymer with excellent epoxy equivalent weight (EEW). The structure of the epoxy precursor was characterized by FT-IR, NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The efficiency of the ultrasound-assisted synthesis was attributed to the physical effects caused by micro-jets on the surface of the solid sodium hydroxide microspheres following the asymmetrical collapse of cavitation bubbles.
Photocatalytic Atom Transfer Radical Addition to Olefins Utilizing Novel Photocatalysts
Authors: Voutyritsa Errika , Triandafillidi Ierasia , Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Nikitas Nikolaos F. , Pefkianakis Eleftherios K. , Vougioukalakis Georgios C. , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: April 2019

Photocatalysis is a rapidly evolving area of research in modern organic synthesis. Among the traditional photocatalysts, metal-complexes based on ruthenium or iridium are the most common. Herein, we present the synthesis of two photoactive, ruthenium-based complexes bearing pyridine-quinoline or terpyridine ligands with extended aromatic conjugation. Our complexes were utilized in the atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) of haloalkanes to olefins, using bromoacetonitrile or bromotrichloromethane as the source of the alkyl group. The tailor-made ruthenium-based catalyst bearing the pyridine-quinoline bidentate ligand proved to be the best-performing photocatalyst, among a range of metal complexes and organocatalysts, efficiently catalyzing both reactions. These photocatalytic atom transfer protocols can be expanded into a broad scope of olefins. In both protocols, the photocatalytic reactions led to products in good to excellent isolated yields.
Comparative Study of Antioxidant Potential of Selected Dietary Vitamins; Computational Insights
Authors: Pandithavidana Dinesh R. , Jayawardana Samith B.
Published: April 2019

Density functional theory (DFT) was used to explore the antioxidant properties of some naturally occurring dietary vitamins, and the reaction enthalpies related to various mechanisms of primary antioxidant action, i.e., hydrogen atom transfer, single electron transfer–proton transfer, and sequential proton loss–electron transfer were discussed in detail. B3LYP, M05-2X, and M06-2X functionals were utilized in this work. For aqueous phase studies, the integral equation formalism polarized continuum model (IEF–PCM) was employed. From the outcomes, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) was the most probable mechanism for the antioxidant action of this class of compounds. Comparison of found results with experimental data (available in literature), vitamin C possesses the lowest enthalpy values for both proton affinity (PA) and bond dissociation energy (BDE)in the aqueous phase, suggesting it as the most promising candidate as an antioxidant. Accordingly, these computational insights encourage the design of structurally novel, simple vitamins which will be more economical and beneficial in the pharmaceutical industry.
Nelumbo nucifera Receptaculum Extract Suppresses Angiotensin II-Induced Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy
Authors: Cho Soyoung , Cho Hyun Woo , Woo Kyeong Wan , Jeong Jisu , Lim Juyeon , Park Sungha , Seo Miran , Lim Soyeon
Published: April 2019

Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (lotus) is an important medicinal plant, and many parts of the plant have been investigated for their therapeutic effects. However, the therapeutic effect of receptacles of lotuses on pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy has not been investigated yet. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine the protective effect of lotus against angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro. Ang II was used to induce hypertrophy of H9c2 cells. The lotus receptacle powder (MeOH extract of receptaculum Nelumbinis; MRN) used in the experiments was prepared by MeOH extraction and subsequent evaporation. To evaluate the effect of MRN on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cell size, protein synthesis, and hypertrophic marker expressions were examined. The antioxidant ability of MRN was determined by using CM-H2DCFDA, a general oxidative stress indicator. Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was significantly attenuated by 5 µg/mL of MRN, as confirmed by the reductions in cell size, protein synthesis, and hypertrophic marker expression. MRN also attenuated Ang II-induced excessive intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through the suppression of protein kinase C (PKC), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and NF-κB activation and subsequent type I angiotensin receptor (AT1R), receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), and NADPH oxidase (NOX) expression. MRN exerted a significant protective effect against Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy through suppression of PKC–ERK signaling, and this subsequently led to attenuation of intracellular ROS production.