bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review on Lignans from Mexican Bursera spp.
Authors: Marcotullio Maria Carla , Curini Massimo , Becerra Judith X.
Published: August 2018

The genus Bursera belongs to the family Burseraceae and has been used in traditional Mexican medicine for treating various pathophysiological disorders. The most representative phytochemicals isolated from this genus are terpenoids and lignans. Lignans are phenolic metabolites known for their antioxidant, apoptotic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-protozoal properties. Though the genus includes more than 100 species, we have attempted to summarize the biological activities of the 34 lignans isolated from selected Mexican Bursera plants.
New 2-Oxoindolin Phosphonates as Novel Agents to Treat Cancer: A Green Synthesis and Molecular Modeling
Authors: Tiwari Shailee V. , Sharif Nawaz S. , Gajare Rekha I. , Vazquez Julio A. Seijas , Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Damale Manoj D. , Nikalje Anna Pratima G.
Published: August 2018

The work reports the facile synthesis of novel α-aminophosphonate derivatives coupled with indole-2,3-dione moieties, namely the diethyl(substituted phenyl/heteroaryl)(2-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)hydrazinyl)methylphosphonates derivatives 4(a–n). One-pot three component Kabachnik-Fields reactions were used to synthesize these derivatives. The reaction was carried out at room temperature by stirring in presence of ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) as a green catalyst. The structures of the synthesized compounds were established by spectral studies. The synthesized derivatives 4(a–n) were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity against six human cancer cell lines by the SRB assay method. The cancer cell lines used in this research work are SK-MEL-2 (melanoma), MCF-7 (breast cancer), IMR-32 (neuroblastoma) MG-63 (human osteosarcoma), HT-29 (human colon cancer) and Hep-G2 (human hepatoma). All the synthesized derivatives inhibited the cell proliferation. Importantly, all the target compounds showed no cytotoxicity towards normal tissue cells (GI50 > 250 µM). A docking study was performed to predict the mode of action. Docking results indicate that the compounds have good binding with the enzyme tyrosine kinase as well as with microtubules, which makes them dual inhibitors. The result of in-silico bioavailability studies suggests that the compounds from the present series have good oral drug-like properties and are non-toxic in nature. In vivo acute oral toxicity study results indicate that the compounds can be considered safe, and therefore could be developed in the future as good anticancer agents or as leads for the design and synthesis of novel anticancer agents.
The Antifungal Properties of Epidermal Fatty Acid Esters: Insights from White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) in Bats
Authors: Frank Craig L. , Sitler-Elbel Katherine G. , Hudson Anna J. , Ingala Melissa R.
Published: August 2018

Numerous free fatty acids (FFAs) are known to have potent antifungal effects. The mammalian epidermis contains both FFAs and multiple classes of fatty acid esters, including 1-monoacylglycerols and wax esters. We thus hypothesized that wax esters and 1-monoacylglycerols composed of antifungal fatty acids would also have antifungal properties. We tested this hypothesis by examining the effects of 1-monoacylglycerols, 1,3-diacylglycerols, and wax esters on the growth of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the fungus that causes White-nose Syndrome (WNS) in North American bats by invading their epidermis. Laboratory experiments with Pd cultures demonstrated that: (a) three 1-monoacylglycerols (1-monopalmitolein, 1-monoolein, and 1-monolinolein), as well as, (b) two wax esters, behenyl oleate and behenyl palmitoleate, profoundly inhibit Pd growth. The normal growth cycle of Pd was interrupted by addition of two cholesterol esters to the media as well. A bat species resistant to cutaneous Pd infections has these 1-monoacylglycerols in the epidermis, and another Pd resistant bat species has these wax esters in the sebum, thus cutaneous lipid composition is one factor which enables some bats to avoid WNS. Our experiments also revealed that the fatty acid esters which inhibit Pd growth are not hydrolyzed by the lipases secreted by this fungus, whereas the esters that do not inhibit Pd growth are hydrolyzed.
EyeSpot: Leveraging Gaze to Protect Private Text Content on Mobile Devices from Shoulder Surfing
Authors: Khamis Mohamed , Eiband Malin , Zürn Martin , Hussmann Heinrich
Published: August 2018

As mobile devices allow access to an increasing amount of private data, using them in public can potentially leak sensitive information through shoulder surfing. This includes personal private data (e.g., in chat conversations) and business-related content (e.g., in emails). Leaking the former might infringe on users’ privacy, while leaking the latter is considered a breach of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation as of May 2018. This creates a need for systems that protect sensitive data in public. We introduce EyeSpot, a technique that displays content through a spot that follows the user’s gaze while hiding the rest of the screen from an observer’s view through overlaid masks. We explore different configurations for EyeSpot in a user study in terms of users’ reading speed, text comprehension, and perceived workload. While our system is a proof of concept, we identify crystallized masks as a promising design candidate for further evaluation with regard to the security of the system in a shoulder surfing scenario.
Efficient Inkjet Printing of Graphene-Based Elements: Influence of Dispersing Agent on Ink Viscosity
Authors: Dybowska-Sarapuk Lucja , Kielbasinski Konrad , Arazna Aneta , Futera Konrad , Skalski Andrzej , Janczak Daniel , Sloma Marcin , Jakubowska Malgorzata
Published: August 2018

Inkjet printing is an excellent printing technique and an attractive alternative to conventional technologies for the production of flexible, low-cost microelectronic devices. Among many parameters that have a significant impact on the correctness of the printing process, the most important is ink viscosity. During the printing process, the ink is influenced by different strains and forces, which significantly change the printing results. The authors present a model and calculations referring to the shear rate of ink in an inkjet printer nozzle. Supporting experiments were conducted, proving the model assumptions for two different ink formulations: initial ink and with the addition of a dispersing agent. The most important findings are summarized by the process window regime of parameters, which is much broader for the inks with a dispersing agent. Such inks exhibit preferable viscosity, better print-ability, and higher path quality with lower resistivity. Presented results allow stating that proper, stable graphene inks adjusted for inkjet technique rheology must contain modifiers such as dispersing agents to be effectively printed.
An Evaluation of Graphene Oxides as Possible Foam Stabilizing Agents for CO2 Based Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Barrabino Albert , Holt Torleif , Lindeberg Erik
Published: August 2018

Graphene oxide, nanographene oxide and partially reduced graphene oxide have been studied as possible foam stabilizing agents for CO2 based enhanced oil recovery. Graphene oxide was able to stabilize CO2/synthetic sea water foams, while nanographene oxide and partially reduced graphene oxide were not able to stabilize foams. The inability of nanographene oxide for stabilizing foams was explained by the increase of hydrophilicity due to size decrease, while for partially reduced graphene oxide, the high degree of reduction of the material was considered to be the reason. Graphene oxide brine dispersions showed immediate gel formation, which improved foam stability. Particle growth due to layer stacking was also observed. This mechanism was detrimental for foam stabilization. Gel formation and particle growth caused these particles to block pores and not being filterable. The work indicates that the particles studied are not suitable for CO2 enhanced oil recovery purposes.
Three-Dimensional Hierarchical Porous Structure of PPy/Porous-Graphene to Encapsulate Polysulfides for Lithium/Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yongguang , Bakenov Zhumabay , Tan Taizhe , Huang Jin
Published: August 2018

Herein, we demonstrate the fabrication of a three-dimensional (3D) polypyrrole-coated-porous graphene (PPy/PG) composite through in-situ polymerization of pyrrole monomer on PG surface. The PPy/PG displays a 3D hierarchical porous structure and the resulting PPy/PG hybrid serves as a conductive trap to lithium polysulfides enhancing the electrochemical performances. Owing to the superior conductivity and peculiar structure, a high initial discharge capacity of 1020 mAh g−1 and the reversible capacity of 802 mAh g−1 over 200 cycles are obtained for the S/PPy/PG cathode at 0.1 C, remaining the remarkable cyclic stability. In addition, the S/PPy/PG cathodes demonstrate an excellent rate performance exhibiting 477 mAh g−1 at 2 C.
Synthesis of Amorphous InSb Nanowires and a Study of the Effects of Laser Radiation and Thermal Annealing on Nanowire Crystallinity
Authors: Algarni Zaina , Singh Abhay , Philipose Usha
Published: August 2018

Although various synthesis and characterization strategies have been employed for the synthesis of crystalline nanowires, there is very little work done on development of low-dimensional amorphous semiconductors. This paper presents a simple strategy to grow amorphous InSb (a-InSb) nanowires (NWs) in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system. The NWs were grown on Si substrate coated with indium film and the lack of crystallinity in the as-grown stoichiometric NWs was ascertained by Raman spectroscopy and electron transport measurements. A model proposed to explain the amorphous NW growth mechanism takes into account the fact that NW growth was carried out at the high temperature ramp-up rate of 75 ∘C/min. This high rate is believed to affect the growth kinematics and determine the arrangement of atoms in the growing NW. Raman spectrum of the as-grown sample shows a broad peak around 155 cm−1, indicative of the presence of high density of homopolar Sb-Sb bonds in the amorphous matrix. It was also found that high intensity laser light induces localized crystallization of the NW, most likely due to radiation-stimulated diffusion of defects in a-InSb. The nonlinear trend of the current-voltage characteristics for individually contacted a-InSb NWs was analyzed to prove that the non-linearity is not induced by Schottky contacts. At high bias fields, space charge limited conduction was the proposed electron transport mechanism. Post-growth annealing of the as-grown a-InSb NWs was found to be very effective in causing the NWs to undergo a phase transition from amorphous to crystalline.
Basic Medium Heterogeneous Solution Synthesis of α-MnO2 Nanoflakes as an Anode or Cathode in Half Cell Configuration (vs. Lithium) of Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Kyungho , Daniel Geoffrey , Kessler Vadim G. , Seisenbaeva Gulaim A. , Pol Vilas G.
Published: August 2018

Nano α-MnO2 is usually synthesized under hydrothermal conditions in acidic medium, which results in materials easily undergoing thermal reduction and offers single crystals often over 100 nm in size. In this study, α-MnO2 built up of inter-grown ultra-small nanoflakes with 10 nm thickness was produced in a rapid two-step procedure starting via partial reduction in solution in basic medium subsequently followed by co-proportionation in thermal treatment. This approach offers phase-pure α-MnO2 doped with potassium (cryptomelane type K0.25Mn8O16 structure) demonstrating considerable chemical and thermal stability. The reaction pathways leading to this new morphology and structure have been discussed. The MnO2 electrodes produced from obtained nanostructures were tested as electrodes of lithium ion batteries delivering initial discharge capacities of 968 mAh g−1 for anode (0 to 2.0 V) and 317 mAh g−1 for cathode (1.5 to 3.5 V) at 20 mA g−1 current density. At constant current of 100 mA g−1, stable cycling of anode achieving 660 mAh g−1 and 145 mAh g−1 for cathode after 200 cycles is recorded. Post diagnostic analysis of cycled electrodes confirmed the electrode materials stability and structural properties.
Does a Supplemental Low-Protein Diet Decrease Mortality and Adverse Events After Commencing Dialysis? A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Yen Chieh-Li , Tu Kun-Hua , Lin Ming-Shyan , Chang Su-Wei , Fan Pei-Chun , Hsiao Ching-Chung , Chen Chao-Yu , Hsu Hsiang-Hao , Tian Ya-Chun , Chang Chih-Hsiang
Published: August 2018

Background: A beneficial effect of a ketoanalogue-supplemented low-protein diet (sLPD) in postponing dialysis has been demonstrated in numerous previous studies. However, evidence regarding its effect on long-term survival is limited. Our study assessed the long-term outcomes of patients on an sLPD after commencing dialysis. Methods: This retrospective study examined patients with new-onset end-stage renal disease with permanent dialysis between 2001 and 2013, extracted from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients who received more than 3 months of sLPD treatment in the year preceding the start of dialysis were extracted. The outcomes studied were all-cause mortality, infection rate, and major cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs). Results: After propensity score matching, the sLPD group (n = 2607) showed a lower risk of all-cause mortality (23.1% vs. 27.6%, hazard ratio (HR) 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70–0.84), MACCEs (19.2% vs. 21.5%, HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.78–0.94), and infection-related death (9.9% vs. 12.5%, HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67–0.87) than the non-sLPD group did. Conclusion: We found that sLPD treatment might be safe without long-term negative consequences after dialysis treatment.
Erratum: Cost-Effectiveness of Product Reformulation in Response to the Health Star Rating Food Labelling System in Australia; Nutrients 2018, 10, 614
Authors: Mantilla Herrera Ana , Crino Michelle , Erskine Holly , Sacks Gary , Ananthapavan Jaithri , Ni Mhurchu Cliona , Lee Yong
Published: August 2018

The authors have requested that the following changes be made to their paper [...]
Human Milk Oligosaccharides and Immune System Development
Authors: Plaza-Díaz Julio , Fontana Luis , Gil Angel
Published: August 2018

Maternal milk contains compounds that may affect newborn immunity. Among these are a group of oligosaccharides that are synthesized in the mammary gland from lactose; these oligosaccharides have been termed human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). The amount of HMOs present in human milk is greater than the amount of protein. In fact, HMOs are the third-most abundant solid component in maternal milk after lactose and lipids, and are thus considered to be key components. The importance of HMOs may be explained by their inhibitory effects on the adhesion of microorganisms to the intestinal mucosa, the growth of pathogens through the production of bacteriocins and organic acids, and the expression of genes that are involved in inflammation. This review begins with short descriptions of the basic structures of HMOs and the gut immune system, continues with the beneficial effects of HMOs shown in cell and animal studies, and it ends with the observational and randomized controlled trials carried out in humans to date, with particular emphasis on their effect on immune system development. HMOs seem to protect breastfed infants against microbial infections. The protective effect has been found to be exerted through cell signaling and cell-to-cell recognition events, enrichment of the protective gut microbiota, the modulation of microbial adhesion, and the invasion of the infant intestinal mucosa. In addition, infants fed formula supplemented with selected HMOs exhibit a pattern of inflammatory cytokines closer to that of exclusively breastfed infants. Unfortunately, the positive effects found in preclinical studies have not been substantiated in the few randomized, double-blinded, multicenter, controlled trials that are available, perhaps partly because these studies focus on aspects other than the immune response (e.g., growth, tolerance, and stool microbiota).
Effect of Milk Fermented with Lactobacillus fermentum on the Inflammatory Response in Mice
Authors: Santiago-López Lourdes , Hernández-Mendoza Adrián , Mata-Haro Verónica , Vallejo-Córdoba Belinda , Wall-Medrano Abraham , Astiazarán-García Humberto , Estrada-Montoya María del Carmen , González-Córdova Aarón F.
Published: August 2018

Currently, the effect of fermented milk on the T-helper 17 response in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is unknown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of milks fermented with Lactobacillus fermentum on the Th1/Th17 response in a murine model of mild IBD. Exopolysaccharide (EPS), lactic acid (LA), and total protein (TP) contents and bacterial concentration were determined. Male C57Bl/6 mice intragastrically received either raw (FM) or pasteurized (PFM) fermented milk before and during a dextran sulfate infusion protocol. Blood, spleen, and colon samples were collected at Weeks 6 and 10. IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα were determined in serum, and IL-17, IL-23, and IFNγ were determined in intestinal mucosa and serum. The FM groups did not differ in cell concentration, LA, or TP content (p > 0.05); FM-J28 had the highest EPS content. Spleen weight and colon length did not differ among the FM groups (p > 0.05). In the FM-J20 and PFM-J20 groups, IL-17 and IFNγ decreased, and the IL-10 concentration was enhanced (p < 0.05) at Week 6. IL-6, TNFα, IL-23, and IFNγ did not differ in serum and mucosa (p > 0.05), and IL-17 was lowest in FM-J28 and FM-J20. Therefore, FM appears to potentially play a role in decreasing the Th17 response. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the FM-mediated anti-inflammatory mechanisms in IBD.
“My Tummy Tells Me” Cognitions, Barriers and Supports of Parents and School-Age Children for Appropriate Portion Sizes
Authors: Eck Kaitlyn M. , Delaney Colleen L. , Leary Miriam P. , Famodou Oluremi A. , Olfert Melissa D. , Shelnutt Karla P. , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol
Published: August 2018

Larger portion sizes have increased in tandem with the rise in obesity. Elucidation of the cognitions of children and parents related to portion size is needed to inform the development of effective obesity prevention programs. This study examined cognitions of parents (n = 36) and their school-age children (6 to 11 years; n = 35) related to portion sizes via focus group discussions. Parents and children believed controlling portion sizes promoted health and weight control. Some parents felt controlling portions was unnecessary, particularly if kids were a healthy weight because kids can self-regulate intake. Barriers to serving appropriate portions identified by parents focused largely on kids getting enough, rather than too much, to eat. Parents also identified lack of knowledge of age-appropriate portions as a barrier. Facilitators of portion control cited by parents included purchasing pre-portioned products and using small containers to serve food. Children relied on cues from parents (e.g., amount of food parent served them) and internal hunger/satiety cues to regulate intake but found it difficult to avoid overeating highly palatable foods, at restaurants, and when others were overeating. Results suggest obesity prevention interventions should aim to improve portion sizes cognitions, barrier management, and use of facilitators, in families with school-age children.
Discovering Health Benefits of Phytochemicals with Integrated Analysis of the Molecular Network, Chemical Properties and Ethnopharmacological Evidence
Authors: Yoo Sunyong , Kim Kwansoo , Nam Hojung , Lee Doheon
Published: August 2018

Identifying the health benefits of phytochemicals is an essential step in drug and functional food development. While many in vitro screening methods have been developed to identify the health effects of phytochemicals, there is still room for improvement because of high cost and low productivity. Therefore, researchers have alternatively proposed in silico methods, primarily based on three types of approaches; utilizing molecular, chemical or ethnopharmacological information. Although each approach has its own strength in analyzing the characteristics of phytochemicals, previous studies have not considered them all together. Here, we apply an integrated in silico analysis to identify the potential health benefits of phytochemicals based on molecular analysis and chemical properties as well as ethnopharmacological evidence. From the molecular analysis, we found an average of 415.6 health effects for 591 phytochemicals. We further investigated ethnopharmacological evidence of phytochemicals and found that on average 129.1 (31%) of the predicted health effects had ethnopharmacological evidence. Lastly, we investigated chemical properties to confirm whether they are orally bio-available, drug available or effective on certain tissues. The evaluation results indicate that the health effects can be predicted more accurately by cooperatively considering the molecular analysis, chemical properties and ethnopharmacological evidence.
Mexican Households’ Purchases of Foods and Beverages Vary by Store-Type, Taxation Status, and SES
Authors: Pedraza Lilia , Popkin Barry , Salgado Juan , Taillie Lindsey
Published: August 2018

Where people shop for food is often linked to the healthiness of food purchases. In Mexico, no research has examined the connection between where people shop, what they buy, and their socioeconomic status (SES). Mexico’s sugary beverage and junk food taxes have made households decrease purchases of taxed products. However, whether households have changed where they shop is unknown. To address this gap, we use a repeated cross-sectional analysis of household packaged food and beverage purchases from the Nielsen Mexico Consumer Panel Survey from 2012 to 2015 (n > 5500 households). We examine changes in the volume of the purchase of taxed and untaxed products from different store-types (i.e., convenience stores, supermarkets, traditional retailers, wholesalers, home water-delivery, and others) by SES using multivariate linear regression models. Results show that high-SES households purchased more foods and beverages at all store-types except for low-SES who purchased the most foods and taxed beverages at traditional retailers. Purchases of taxed foods and beverages from traditional retailers significantly decreased for low-SES and middle-SES households and from supermarkets for middle-SES and high-SES households. Purchases of untaxed beverages from wholesalers significantly increased for middle-SES households and from convenience stores for high-SES households. Our findings suggest that consumers choose different stores to purchase beverages than to purchase foods and that taxes may have differentially affected each store-type.
Chrysin Ameliorates Malfunction of Retinoid Visual Cycle through Blocking Activation of AGE-RAGE-ER Stress in Glucose-Stimulated Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells and Diabetic Eyes
Authors: Kang Min-Kyung , Lee Eun-Jung , Kim Yun-Ho , Kim Dong Yeon , Oh Hyeongjoo , Kim Soo-Il , Kang Young-Hee
Published: August 2018

Diabetes-associated visual cycle impairment has been implicated in diabetic retinopathy, and chronic hyperglycemia causes detrimental effects on visual function. Chrysin, a naturally occurring flavonoid found in various herbs, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. The goal of the current study was to identify the retinoprotective role of chrysin in maintaining robust retinoid visual cycle-related components. The in vitro study employed human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells exposed to 33 mM of glucose or advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the presence of 1–20 μM chrysin for three days. In the in vivo study, 10 mg/kg of chrysin was orally administrated to db/db mice. Treating chrysin reversed the glucose-induced production of vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1, and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) in RPE cells. The outer nuclear layer thickness of chrysin-exposed retina was enhanced. The oral gavage of chrysin augmented the levels of the visual cycle enzymes of RPE65, lecithin retinol acyltransferase (LRAT), retinol dehydrogenase 5 (RDH5), and rhodopsin diminished in db/db mouse retina. The diabetic tissue levels of the retinoid binding proteins and the receptor of the cellular retinol-binding protein, cellular retinaldehyde-binding protein-1, interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein and stimulated by retinoic acid 6 were restored to those of normal mouse retina. The presence of chrysin demoted AGE secretion and AGE receptor (RAGE) induction in glucose-exposed RPE cells and diabetic eyes. Chrysin inhibited the reduction of PEDF, RPE 65, LRAT, and RDH5 in 100 μg/mL of AGE-bovine serum albumin-exposed RPE cells. The treatment of RPE cells with chrysin reduced the activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Chrysin inhibited the impairment of the retinoid visual cycle through blocking ER stress via the AGE-RAGE activation in glucose-stimulated RPE cells and diabetic eyes. This is the first study demonstrating the protective effects of chrysin on the diabetes-associated malfunctioned visual cycle.
Blackberry Feeding Increases Fat Oxidation and Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Overweight and Obese Males
Authors: Solverson Patrick M. , Rumpler William V. , Leger Jayme L. , Redan Benjamin W. , Ferruzzi Mario G. , Baer David J. , Castonguay Thomas W. , Novotny Janet A.
Published: August 2018

Berries and other anthocyanin-rich treatments have prevented weight gain and adiposity in rodent models of diet-induced obesity. Their efficacy may be explained by modulation of energy substrate utilization. However, this effect has never been translated to humans. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of berry intake on energy substrate use and glucoregulation in volunteers consuming a high-fat diet. Twenty-seven overweight or obese men were enrolled in a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study with two treatment periods. Subjects were fed an investigator controlled, high-fat (40% of energy from fat) diet which contained either 600 g/day blackberries (BB, 1500 mg/day flavonoids) or a calorie and carbohydrate matched amount of gelatin (GEL, flavonoid-free control) for seven days prior to a meal-based glucose tolerance test (MTT) in combination with a 24 h stay in a room-sized indirect calorimeter. The washout period that separated the treatment periods was also seven days. The BB treatment resulted in a significant reduction in average 24 h respiratory quotient (RQ) (0.810 vs. 0.817, BB vs. GEL, p = 0.040), indicating increased fat oxidation. RQ during the MTT was significantly lower with the BB treatment (0.84) compared to GEL control (0.85), p = 0.004. A 4 h time isolation during dinner showed similar treatment effects, where RQ was reduced and fat oxidation increased with BB (0.818 vs. 0.836, 28 vs. 25 g, respectively; BB vs. GEL treatments). The glucose AUC was not different between the BB and GEL treatments during the MTT (3488 vs. 4070 mg·min/dL, respectively, p = 0.12). However, the insulin AUC was significantly lower with the BB compared to the GEL control (6485 vs. 8245 µU·min/mL, p = 0.0002), and HOMA-IR improved with BB (p = 0.0318). Blackberry consumption may promote increased fat oxidation and improved insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese males fed a high fat diet.
Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults
Authors: Juhl Christian R. , Bergholdt Helle K. M. , Miller Iben M. , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Kanters Jørgen K. , Ellervik Christina
Published: August 2018

A meta-analysis can help inform the debate about the epidemiological evidence on dairy intake and development of acne. A systematic literature search of PubMed from inception to 11 December 2017 was performed to estimate the association of dairy intake and acne in children, adolescents, and young adults in observational studies. We estimated the pooled random effects odds ratio (OR) (95% CI), heterogeneity (I2-statistics, Q-statistics), and publication bias. We included 14 studies (n = 78,529; 23,046 acne-cases/55,483 controls) aged 7–30 years. ORs for acne were 1.25 (95% CI: 1.15–1.36; p = 6.13 × 10−8) for any dairy, 1.22 (1.08–1.38; p = 1.62 × 10−3) for full-fat dairy, 1.28 (1.13–1.44; p = 8.23 × 10−5) for any milk, 1.22 (1.06–1.41; p = 6.66 × 10−3) for whole milk, 1.32 (1.16–1.52; p = 4.33 × 10−5) for low-fat/skim milk, 1.22 (1.00–1.50; p = 5.21 × 10−2) for cheese, and 1.36 (1.05–1.77; p = 2.21 × 10−2) for yogurt compared to no intake. ORs per frequency of any milk intake were 1.24 (0.95–1.62) by 2–6 glasses per week, 1.41 (1.05–1.90) by 1 glass per day, and 1.43 (1.09–1.88) by ≥2 glasses per day compared to intake less than weekly. Adjusted results were attenuated and compared unadjusted. There was publication bias (p = 4.71 × 10−3), and heterogeneity in the meta-analyses were explained by dairy and study characteristics. In conclusion, any dairy, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, was associated with an increased OR for acne in individuals aged 7–30 years. However, results should be interpreted with caution due to heterogeneity and bias across studies.
Beneficial Effect of Intestinal Fermentation of Natural Polysaccharides
Authors: Zhang Tiehua , Yang Yang , Liang Yuan , Jiao Xu , Zhao Changhui
Published: August 2018

With the rapid development of modern society, many chronic diseases are increasing including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, etc., which further cause an increased death rate worldwide. A high caloric diet with reduced natural polysaccharides, typically indigestible polysaccharides, is considered a health risk factor. With solid evidence accumulating that indigestible polysaccharides can effectively prevent and/or ameliorate symptoms of many chronic diseases, we give a narrative review of many natural polysaccharides extracted from various food resources which mainly contribute their health beneficial functions via intestinal fermentation.
Adipocytokine Regulation and Antiangiogenic Activity Underlie the Molecular Mechanisms of Therapeutic Effects of Phyllanthus niruri against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Al Zarzour Raghdaa , Alshawsh Mohammed , Asif Muhammad , Al-Mansoub Majed , Mohamed Zahurin , Ahmad Mariam , Abdul Majid Amin , Asmawi Mohd. , Kaur Gurjeet , Al-dualimi Dhamraa , Yam Mun
Published: August 2018

The growth of adipose tissues is considered angiogenesis-dependent during non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We have recently reported that our standardized 50% methanolic extract (ME) of Phyllanthus niruri (50% ME of P. niruri) has alleviated NAFLD in Sprague–Dawley rats. This study aimed to assess the molecular mechanisms of action, and to further evaluate the antiangiogenic effect of this extract. NAFLD was induced by eight weeks of high-fat diet, and treatment was applied for four weeks. Antiangiogenic activity was assessed by aortic ring assay and by in vitro tests. Our findings demonstrated that the therapeutic effects of 50% ME among NAFLD rats, were associated with a significant increase in serum adiponectin, reduction in the serum levels of RBP4, vaspin, progranulin, TNF-α, IL-6, and significant downregulation of the hepatic gene expression of PPARγ, SLC10A2, and Collα1. Concomitantly, 50% ME of P. niruri has exhibited a potent antiangiogenic activity on ring assay, cell migration, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and tube formation, without any cytotoxic effect. Together, our findings revealed that the protective effects of P. niruri against NAFLD might be attributed to its antiangiogenic effect, as well as to the regulation of adipocytokines and reducing the expression of adipogenic genes.
Scaffolds as Structural Tools for Bone-Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Ferracini Riccardo , Martínez Herreros Isabel , Russo Antonio , Casalini Tommaso , Rossi Filippo , Perale Giuseppe
Published: August 2018

Although bone has a high potential to regenerate itself after damage and injury, the efficacious repair of large bone defects resulting from resection, trauma or non-union fractures still requires the implantation of bone grafts. Materials science, in conjunction with biotechnology, can satisfy these needs by developing artificial bones, synthetic substitutes and organ implants. In particular, recent advances in materials science have provided several innovations, underlying the increasing importance of biomaterials in this field. To address the increasing need for improved bone substitutes, tissue engineering seeks to create synthetic, three-dimensional scaffolds made from organic or inorganic materials, incorporating drugs and growth factors, to induce new bone tissue formation. This review emphasizes recent progress in materials science that allows reliable scaffolds to be synthesized for targeted drug delivery in bone regeneration, also with respect to past directions no longer considered promising. A general overview concerning modeling approaches suitable for the discussed systems is also provided.
A Sensitive Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for the Determination of Nimbolide in Mouse Serum: Application to a Preclinical Pharmacokinetics Study
Authors: Wang Lingzhi , Phan Do-Dang , Syn Nicholas , Xiang Xiaoqiang , Song Hongyan , Thuya Win , Yang Shili , Wong Andrea , Kumar Alan , Yong Wei , Sethi Gautam , Ho Paul , Goh Boon
Published: August 2018

A sensitive and robust liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination of nimbolide in mouse serum. Exemestane was used as the internal standard (IS). Here, we employed acetonitrile-based protein precipitation (PPT) for serum sample preparation, and performed chromatographic separation using an ODS Hypersil C18 column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 5 µm) with gradient elution (0.1% formic acid in water vs 100% acetonitrile). The run time was 6 min. Instrumental analysis was performed by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) in the multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) under positive mode. A good linear calibration was achieved in the 5–1000 ng/mL range. The intra- and inter-day precisions for nimbolide were ≤12.6% and ≤13.9% respectively. Intra-day accuracy ranged from 96.9–109.3%, while inter-day accuracy ranged from 94.3–110.2%. The matrix effect of nimbolide, detected but consistent at low and high concentrations, do not affect linearity of standard curve. In conclusion, we have developed and validated a sensitive analytical method for determination of a novel natural compound nimbolide in mouse serum, and it has been successfully applied to our preclinical study in investigating the pharmacokinetic properties of nimbolide, which could greatly facilitate the preclinical development of the promising lead compound for anticancer therapy.
Interactions between Mycorrhizal Fungi, Tea Wastes, and Algal Biomass Affecting the Microbial Community, Soil Structure, and Alleviating of Salinity Stress in Corn Yield (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Al-Maliki Salwan , AL-Masoudi Mugtaba
Published: August 2018

Soil salinity has an adverse impact on soil biological properties and growth of corn plant, majorly in arid and semi-arid lands. A mesocosm experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of mycorrhizal fungi (M) (Glomus mosseae), tea wastes (T), algal dried biomass (A), and their combinations on soil respiration, total bacteria, total fungi, soil mean weight diameter (MWD), and corn yield (Zeamays L.). under saline and non-saline soils. Results showed that M, T, and A treatments increased significantly CO2 release compared to the control. Whereas, M significantly decreased CO2 release compared to T and A treatments. In non-saline soil, M increased greatly MWD, bacterial and fungal counts, and infection rate. Whereas, the opposite was true in the saline soil; neither M nor T improved bacterial communities and MWD. However, in the saline soil, M + T was highly efficient in improving MWD, SOC, bacterial and fungal counts, infection rate, and corn grain yield. It can be suggested that the inoculation of mycorrhizal fungi with tea wastes in saline soils considered an important strategy that increases the toleration of the corn plant to salinity by improving soil microbial activity, MWD, SOC, infection rate, and total grain yield.
Fast Switchable Dual-Model Grating by Using Polymer-Stabilized Sphere Phase Liquid Crystal
Authors: Li Xuan , Du Xiaowei , Guo Peiyun , Zhu Jiliang , Ye Wenjiang , Xu Qin , Sun Yubao
Published: August 2018

We demonstrated a fast switchable dual-model grating based on a polymer-stabilized sphere phase liquid crystal. To form binary periodicity layers, the polymer-stabilized sphere phase liquid crystal precursor was sequence ultraviolet cured at an isotropic and sphere phase. This grating jointly modulated both the phase and the amplitude, had six times the diffraction efficiency of that fabricated with polymer-stabilized blue phase liquid crystal. Moreover, the dual-model tunable grating shown polarization-independent and submillisecond response time, which may hold a great potential application in diffractive optics.
Enhancement of Heat Dissipation by Laser Micro Structuring for LED Module
Authors: Lu Libin , Zhang Zhen , Guan Yingchun , Zheng Hongyu
Published: August 2018

Optimization for heat dissipation plays a significant role in energy saving and high-efficiency utilizing of integrated electronics. In this paper, we present a study of micro structuring on polymer-based flexible substrate coupled with aluminum-alloy heat sink. The heat dissipation performance was investigated by temperature evolution of a heat sink under natural convection by infrared (IR) camera, and results showed that the heat dissipation enhancement could be up to 25%. Moreover, the heat dissipation performance of a typical heat sink in terms of light-emitting diode (LED) hip was investigated via both thermal transient measurement and the finite element analysis (FEA). The maximum LED chip temperature of the laser-textured heat sink was approximately 22.4% lower than that of the as-received heat sink. We propose that these properties accompanied with the simplicity of fabrication make laser surface texturing a promising candidate for on-chip thermal management applications in electronics.
The Chain Length Distribution of an Ideal Reversible Deactivation Radical Polymerization
Authors: Harrisson Simon
Published: August 2018

The chain length distribution (CLD) of a reversible deactivation radical polymerization at full conversion is shown to be a negative binomial distribution with parameters that are simple functions of the number-average degree of polymerization and either the chain transfer constant (in the case of polymerizations that incorporate a reversible chain transfer step) or the concentrations of dormant polymer chains and deactivating agent and the rate constants of propagation and deactivation (other types of RDRP). Expressions for the CLD at intermediate conversions are also derived, and shown to be consistent with known expressions for the number-average degree of polymerization and dispersity. It is further demonstrated that these CLDs are well-approximated by negative binomial distributions with appropriate choice of parameters. The negative binomial distribution is thus a useful model for CLDs of reversible deactivation radical polymerizations.
Sustained Delivery of Analgesic and Antimicrobial Agents to Knee Joint by Direct Injections of Electrosprayed Multipharmaceutical-Loaded Nano/Microparticles
Authors: Hsu Yung-Heng , Chen Dave Wei-Chih , Li Min-Jhan , Yu Yi-Hsun , Chou Ying-Chao , Liu Shih-Jung
Published: August 2018

In this study, we developed biodegradable lidocaine–/vancomycin–/ceftazidime–eluting poly(d,l–lactide–co–glycolide) (PLGA) nano/microparticulate carriers using an electrospraying process, and we evaluated the release behaviors of the carriers in knee joints. To prepare the particles, predetermined weight percentages of PLGA, vancomycin, ceftazidime, and lidocaine were dissolved in solvents. The PLGA/antibiotic/lidocaine solutions were then fed into a syringe for electrospraying. After electrospraying, the morphology of the sprayed nano/microparticles was elucidated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in vitro antibiotic/analgesic release characteristics of the nano/microparticles were studied using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In addition, drug release to the synovial tissues and fluids was studied in vivo by injecting drug-loaded nano/microparticles into the knee joints of rabbits. The biodegradable electrosprayed nano/microparticles released high concentrations of vancomycin/ceftazidime (well above the minimum inhibition concentration) and lidocaine into the knee joints for more than 2 weeks and for over 3 days, respectively. Such results suggest that electrosprayed biodegradable nano/microcarriers could be used for the long-term local delivery of various pharmaceuticals.
Influence of Amine Compounds on the Thermal Stability of Paper-Oil Insulation
Authors: Liang Ningchuan , Liao Ruijin , Xiang Min , Mo Yang , Yuan Yuan
Published: August 2018

Amine compounds can greatly enhance the thermal stability of the insulating paper used in paper-oil insulation. Many research documents focus on paper‘s excellent thermal stability, but less attention has been paid to the effect of oil on paper’s degradation. In this research paper, we study the influence of different amine compounds on the thermal stability of both paper and oil, and a mechanism for the influence on paper-oil insulation as well as an optimal formula are proposed. First, six groups of paper were modified with different proportions of dicyandiamide (DICY), melamine, and polyacrylamide (PAM). Then, an accelerated thermal aging test at 130 °C was conducted for 30 days and the thermal aging characteristics of the oil-modified paper insulation were measured. The results showed that the thermal stability of the insulation paper modified with the amine compounds was remarkably improved, and P2 (2.25 wt % melamine, 0.75 wt % DICY, and 0.2 wt % PAM) presented the best anti-aging properties. However, certain properties of oil were influenced, such as acid value, and it was found that the ammonia produced by the amine stabilizers increased the copper compound content, which led to the deterioration of the insulating oil. Moreover, using a front-line orbital energy analysis by molecule modeling, it was determined that melamine was the core thermal stabilizer for the paper among the three amine compounds used in P2.
Deformation and Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted Clay under Waste Differential Settlement
Authors: Xu Sifa , Li Cuifeng , Liu Jizhuang , Bian Mengdan , Wei Weiwei , Zhang Hao , Wang Zhe
Published: August 2018

Landfill is still the most important process to dispose of municipal solid waste in China, while landfill closure aims for pollution control, security control, and better land reuse. However, uneven settlement of landfill cover system is very likely to cause deformation and cracking. The objective of this paper is to examine the effects of geogrid reinforcement on the deformation behaviour and hydraulic conductivity of the bentonite-sand mixtures that are subjected to differential settlement. The laboratory model tests were performed on bentonite-sand mixtures with and without the inclusion of geogrid reinforcement. By maintaining the type and location of the geogrid within the liner systems as constant, the thickness of the bentonite-sand mixtures is varied. The performation of the liner systems with and without the inclusion of geogrid reinforcement was assessed by using jack to control differential settlement. Un-reinforced bentonite-sand mixtures of 100 mm and 200 mm thickness were observed to begin cracking at settlement levels of 2.5 mm and 7 mm, respectively. When settlement reached 25 and 42.5 mm, cracks for 100 mm and 200 mm thick bentonite-sand mixtures without geogrid penetrated completely. The settlement levels for bentonite-sand mixtures of 100 mm thickness with and without geogrid reinforcement was found to be 10 mm and 15 mm, respectively, when its hydraulic conductivity was around 5 * 10−7 cm/s. In comparison, geogrid reinforced bentonite-sand mixtures was found to sustain large deformation with an enhanced imperviousness. The results from the present study can provide theory evidence of predicting deformation and hydraulic conductivity of the landfill cover system.
The Paradise Lost of Milia (Grevena, Greece; Late Pliocene, Early Villafranchian, MN15/MN16a): Faunal Composition and Diversity
Authors: Vlachos Evangelos , Tsoukala Evangelia , Crégut-Bonnoure Evelyne , Guérin Claude , Mol Dick
Published: August 2018

(1) Background: Over the last decades, important fossil records of Late Pliocene mammals and reptiles have been unearthed in Milia, Grevena (N Greece). This assemblage shows a remarkable composition and diversity, including the partial skeletons of mastodons that reached record-breaking sizes, abundant rhinos—the first occurrence of this species in Greece—and some new species; (2) Methods: We perform a thorough quantitative analysis of the recovered assemblage, presenting the information of the various collection spots in Milia, and calculate various biodiversity indices for each spot; (3) Results: Our research has revealed the vast majority of expected taxa in the assemblage. We argue that the various sub-localities in Milia could be grouped into a larger, composite assemblage representing a short period. We analyze the diversity changes through the various localities in Milia and highlight potential barriers that could affect the distribution of taxa; (4) Conclusions: We re-affirm the Early Villafranchian affinities of the fauna. In particular, Milia should date at MN16a, with a surprising presence of some more archaic, Ruscinian taxa. The fossils of Milia depict a Late Pliocene paradise in the Southern Balkans; a paradise, unfortunately, lost with the onset of the dramatic climate changes of the Quaternary.
Writing a Moral Code: Algorithms for Ethical Reasoning by Humans and Machines
Authors: McGrath James , Gupta Ankur
Published: August 2018

The moral and ethical challenges of living in community pertain not only to the intersection of human beings one with another, but also our interactions with our machine creations. This article explores the philosophical and theological framework for reasoning and decision-making through the lens of science fiction, religion, and artificial intelligence (both real and imagined). In comparing the programming of autonomous machines with human ethical deliberation, we discover that both depend on a concrete ordering of priorities derived from a clearly defined value system.