bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tetranuclear Hetro-Metal [MnIII2NiII2] Complexes Involving Defective Double-Cubane Structure: Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Suemitsu Yuki , Matsunaga Ryuji , Toyofuku Takashi , Yamada Yasunori , Mikuriya Masahiro , Tokii Tadashi , Koikawa Masayuki
Published: February 2019

Tetranuclear hetero-metal MnIII2NiII2 complexes, [Mn2Ni2(L)4(OAc)2] (1) and [Mn2Ni2(L)4(NO3)2] (2) [H2L = N-(2-hydroxymethylphenyl)-5,6-benzosalicylideneimine], have been synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystal structure analyses, infrared spectra, and elemental analyses. The structure analyses revealed that the complexes have a defective double-cubane metal core connected by μ3-alkoxo bridges. Complexes consist of two bis-μ-alkoxo bridged MnIIINiII heteronuclear units making a dimer-of-dimers structure. The double-cubane cores are significantly distorted due to an effect of syn–syn mode acetato or nitrato bridges. Magnetic measurements indicate that weak antiferromagnetic interactions (Mn-Ni = −0.66 ~ −4.19 cm–1) are dominant in the hetero-metal core.
Weak and Strong Convergence Theorems for the Inclusion Problem and the Fixed-Point Problem of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Cholamjiak Prasit , Kesornprom Suparat , Pholasa Nattawut
Published: February 2019

In this work, we study the inclusion problem of the sum of two monotone operators and the fixed-point problem of nonexpansive mappings in Hilbert spaces. We prove the weak and strong convergence theorems under some weakened conditions. Some numerical experiments are also given to support our main theorem.
Spectra of Subdivision Vertex-Edge Join of Three Graphs
Authors: Wen Fei , Zhang You , Li Muchun
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we introduce a new graph operation called subdivision vertex-edge join (denoted by G 1 S ▹ ( G 2 V ∪ G 3 E ) for short), and then the adjacency spectrum, the Laplacian spectrum and the signless Laplacian spectrum of G 1 S ▹ ( G 2 V ∪ G 3 E ) are respectively determined in terms of the corresponding spectra for a regular graph G 1 and two arbitrary graphs G 2 and G 3 . All the above can be viewed as the generalizations of the main results in [X. Liu, Z. Zhang, Bull. Malays. Math. Sci. Soc., 2017:1–17]. Furthermore, we also determine the normalized Laplacian spectrum of G 1 S ▹ ( G 2 V ∪ G 3 E ) whenever G i are regular graphs for each index i = 1 , 2 , 3 . As applications, we construct infinitely many pairs of A-cospectral mates, L-cospectral mates, Q-cospectral mates and L -cospectral mates. Finally, we give the number of spanning trees, the (degree-)Kirchhoff index and the Kemeny’s constant of G 1 S ▹ ( G 2 V ∪ G 3 E ) , respectively.
Antioxidative Peptides from Proteolytic Hydrolysates of False Abalone (Volutharpa ampullacea perryi): Characterization, Identification, and Molecular Docking
Authors: He Shudong , Zhang Yi , Sun Hanju , Du Ming , Qiu Jianlei , Tang Mingming , Sun Xianbao , Zhu Beiwei
Published: February 2019

Antioxidative peptides were produced from false abalone (Volutharpa ampullacea perryi) using enzymatic hydrolysis. Trypsin produced the most bioactive hydrolysates with the highest scavenging ABTS+• free radicals compared to pepsin, alcalase, neutrase, and flavourzyme. The response surface methodology studies on trypsin hydrolysis indicated that the hydrolysis temperature, time, and pH were interacted with each other (p < 0.05), and the optimal conditions were hydrolysis at 51.8 °C for 4.1 h, pH 7.7 and the maximum predicted hydrolysis degree was 13.18% and ABTS+• scavenging activity of 79.42%. The optimized hydrolysate was subjected to ultrafiltration fractionation, and the fraction with MW < 3 kDa showed the highest ABTS+• scavenging activity. There were 193 peptide sequences identified from this peptide fraction and 133 of them were successfully docked onto human myeloperoxidase (MPO), an enzyme involved in forming reactive oxidants in vivo. The highest scored peptide, no. 39, consists of DTETGVPT. Its structure and molecular interactions with MPO active site were compared with previously characterized peptide hLF1-11. The interactions between peptide no. 39 and MPO include electrostatic charge, hydrogen bonds, and covalent bonds. The antioxidative peptide produced in this research may exert antioxidant activity in vivo due to its potential inhibition effect on MPO.
Increase in the Mechanical Strength of Mg-8Gd-3Y-1Zn Alloy Containing Long-Period Stacking Ordered Phases Using Equal Channel Angular Pressing Processing
Authors: Garces Gerardo , Pérez Pablo , Barea Rafael , Medina Judit , Stark Andreas , Schell Norbert , Adeva Paloma
Published: February 2019

The evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties during equal channel angular pressing processing has been studied in an extruded Mg-Gd-Y-Zn alloy containing long-period stacking ordered phases. After extrusion, the microstructure is characterized by the presence of long-period stacking ordered fibers elongated along the extrusion direction within the magnesium matrix. The grain structure is a mixture of randomly oriented dynamic recrystallized and coarse highly oriented non-dynamic recrystallized grains. Rare-earth atoms are in solid solution after extrusion at 400 °C and precipitation takes place during the thermal treatment at 200 °C. Precipitation of β’ prismatic plates and lamellar γ’ in the basal plane increases the tensile yield stress from 325 to 409 MPa. During equal channel angular pressing processing at 300 °C, the volume fraction of dynamic recrystallized grains continuously increases with the strain introduced during the equal channel angular pressing process. Precipitation of β phase is equally observed at grain boundaries of the ECAPed alloy. Dynamic recrystallized grain size decreases from 1.8 µm in the extruded material to 0.5 µm in the ECAPed alloy. Thermal treatment at 200 °C of ECAPed materials results in an increase of the yield stress up to 456 MPa, which is maintained up to 200 °C.
Adsorption Energy Shifts for Oxygen and Hydroxyl on 4-atom Metal-Decorated Graphene Catalysts Via Solvation, pH, and Substrate Dopants: Effects on ORR Activity
Authors: Rankin Rees B. , Lozano Tamara
Published: February 2019

Recent literature results have highlighted the role of small transition metal and intermetallic nanoparticles supported on graphene as catalysts for many key applications in energy and commodity chemicals industries. Specifically, metal nanoparticle catalysts down to sizes of 4 and even 1 (single atom catalysts) on graphene have been studied for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR). A recent study showed that 4-atom transition metal intermetallic nanoparticles (NP) on graphene (metal-decorated graphene (MDG)) even generate a predictive Volcano Plot for ORR activity. Initial results from that study were not completely explained, and an expanded analysis and discussion built from that work is presented in this manuscript. Specifically, in this new work, the original Volcano Plot for 4-atom MDG NP catalysts for the ORR is analyzed for its counter-intuitive thermodynamic inversion between the rate limiting steps of O* hydrogenation and OH* hydrogenation. The Volcano Plot is then further studied for dependence on solvent correction energy, system pH, and with an initial probe on the sensitivity of descriptor values on doping of the graphene support via B and N atoms. Recommendations for optimum 4-atom MDG NP catalyst operation for the ORR are provided, and directions for future work and study are provided.
Effect of a New Grain Refiner (Al–Ti–Mg–Ce) on Hardness, Tensile, and Impact Properties of Al–7Si Alloy
Authors: Zhao Jitao , Shi Mingfang , Wang Zhenqing , Xu Lidan
Published: February 2019

Through studying the effects of the Al–5Ti-x(Mg–30%Ce) refiner on the microstructure of the Al–7Si alloy, we investigated the hardness, tensile, and impact properties of the Al–Si alloy before and after refinement. The refinement results show that Mg–30%Ce can improve the refinement effect of Al–5Ti on Al–7Si, and also refine α-Al and eutectic Si in Al–7Si. When 2%Mg–30%Ce is added, the refining effect of the aluminum–silicon alloy is most obvious. After refinement, the hardness and tensile properties of the Al–7Si alloy improve. When 2%Mg–30%Ce is added to the refiner, the tensile properties of the Al–Si alloy are the best. Dynamic mechanical tests were conducted on refined Al–7Si alloy. The impact toughness of Al–7Si–(Al–5Ti-2(Mg–30%Ce) improved and the impact toughness reached 34.91 J/cm2, which is 78.7% higher than that of Al–7Si–(Al–5Ti) specimens. The separate Hopkinson pressure bar test results show that, under a high strain rate, the strain rate sensitivity of the prepared Al–Si alloy is significant. The specimens of Al–7Si–(Al–5Ti-2(Mg–30%Ce) demonstrated the best anti-impact performance at the same velocity.
Analysis of the Influence of Segmented Rollers on Slab Bulge Deformation
Authors: Qin Qin , Li Ming , Huang Jianlin
Published: February 2019

The bulge deformation of the continuous casting slab must be controlled in order to improve the slab quality. In this study, a coupled three-dimensional thermomechanical model is suggested based on dynamic contact between the slab and the rollers, so as to investigate the influence of the rollers in reducing slab bulge deformation. Moreover, the rigid casting rollers in this model are replaced by elastic casting rollers in order to improve the calculation accuracy. Further, the influence of two-segment and three-segment rollers on the slab bulge deformation is systematically studied. The results indicate that the bulge deformation of the slab increased by 74.3% when elastic casting rollers were adopted instead of rigid casting rollers. This deformation was reduced by 29.7% when three-segment rollers were used instead of two-segment rollers. Moreover, the influence of the roller spacing and the roller diameter of the segmented roller on the deformation was studied in detail. In order to achieve the purpose of controlling the bulge deformation, improved segmented roller spacing and diameter were proposed, leading to a 75.4% reduction in the bulge deformation.
Effect of Process Parameters and Material Properties on Laser Micromachining of Microchannels
Authors: Benton Matthew , Hossan Mohammad , Konari Prashanth , Gamagedara Sanjeewa
Published: February 2019

Laser micromachining has emerged as a promising technique for mass production of microfluidic devices. However, control and optimization of process parameters, and design of substrate materials are still ongoing challenges for the widespread application of laser micromachining. This article reports a systematic study on the effect of laser system parameters and thermo-physical properties of substrate materials on laser micromachining. Three dimensional transient heat conduction equation with a Gaussian laser heat source was solved using finite element based Multiphysics software COMSOL 5.2a. Large heat convection coefficients were used to consider the rapid phase transition of the material during the laser treatment. The depth of the laser cut was measured by removing material at a pre-set temperature. The grid independent analysis was performed for ensuring the accuracy of the model. The results show that laser power and scanning speed have a strong effect on the channel depth, while the level of focus of the laser beam contributes in determining both the depth and width of the channel. Higher thermal conductivity results deeper in cuts, in contrast the higher specific heat produces shallower channels for a given condition. These findings can help in designing and optimizing process parameters for laser micromachining of microfluidic devices.
Coaxial Electrohydrodynamic Atomization for the Production of Drug-Loaded Micro/Nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Chuanpin , Liu Wenfang , Jiang Ping , Hong Tingting
Published: February 2019

Coaxial electrohydrodynamic atomization (CEHDA) presents a promising technology for preparing drug-loaded micro/nanoparticles with core-shell structures. Recently, CEHDA has attracted tremendous attention based on its specific advantages, including precise control over particle size and size distribution, reduced initial burst release and mild preparation conditions. Moreover, with different needles, CEHDA can produce a variety of drug-loaded micro/nanoparticles for drug delivery systems. In this review, we summarize recent advances in using double-layer structure, multilayer structure and multicomponent encapsulation strategies for developing micro/nanoparticles. The merits of applying multiplexed electrospray sources for high-throughput production are also highlighted.
The Effect of the Anisotropy of Single Crystal Silicon on the Frequency Split of Vibrating Ring Gyroscopes
Authors: Qin Zhengcheng , Gao Yang , Jia Jia , Ding Xukai , Huang Libin , Li Hongsheng
Published: February 2019

This paper analyzes the effect of the anisotropy of single crystal silicon on the frequency split of the vibrating ring gyroscope, operated in the n = 2 wineglass mode. Firstly, the elastic properties including elastic matrices and orthotropic elasticity values of (100) and (111) silicon wafers were calculated using the direction cosines of transformed coordinate systems. The (111) wafer was found to be in-plane isotropic. Then, the frequency splits of the n = 2 mode ring gyroscopes of two wafers were simulated using the calculated elastic properties. The simulation results show that the frequency split of the (100) ring gyroscope is far larger than that of the (111) ring gyroscope. Finally, experimental verifications were carried out on the micro-gyroscopes fabricated using deep dry silicon on glass technology. The experimental results are sufficiently in agreement with those of the simulation. Although the single crystal silicon is anisotropic, all the results show that compared with the (100) ring gyroscope, the frequency split of the ring gyroscope fabricated using the (111) wafer is less affected by the crystal direction, which demonstrates that the (111) wafer is more suitable for use in silicon ring gyroscopes as it is possible to get a lower frequency split.
Phylogenomic Analyses of Bradyrhizobium Reveal Uneven Distribution of the Lateral and Subpolar Flagellar Systems, Which Extends to Rhizobiales
Authors: Garrido-Sanz Daniel , Redondo-Nieto Miguel , Mongiardini Elías , Blanco-Romero Esther , Durán David , Quelas Juan I. , Martin Marta , Rivilla Rafael , Lodeiro Aníbal R. , Althabegoiti M. Julia
Published: February 2019

Dual flagellar systems have been described in several bacterial genera, but the extent of their prevalence has not been fully explored. Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA 110T possesses two flagellar systems, the subpolar and the lateral flagella. The lateral flagellum of Bradyrhizobium displays no obvious role, since its performance is explained by cooperation with the subpolar flagellum. In contrast, the lateral flagellum is the only type of flagella present in the related Rhizobiaceae family. In this work, we have analyzed the phylogeny of the Bradyrhizobium genus by means of Genome-to-Genome Blast Distance Phylogeny (GBDP) and Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) comparisons of 128 genomes and divided it into 13 phylogenomic groups. While all the Bradyrhizobium genomes encode the subpolar flagellum, none of them encodes only the lateral flagellum. The simultaneous presence of both flagella is exclusive of the B. japonicum phylogenomic group. Additionally, 292 Rhizobiales order genomes were analyzed and both flagellar systems are present together in only nine genera. Phylogenetic analysis of 150 representative Rhizobiales genomes revealed an uneven distribution of these flagellar systems. While genomes within and close to the Rhizobiaceae family only possess the lateral flagellum, the subpolar flagellum is exclusive of more early-diverging families, where certain genera also present both flagella.
Effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum in Mice Infected with Citrobacter rodentium
Authors: Wen Bijun , Taibi Amel , Villa Christopher R. , Lee Shin-Hann , Sagaidak Sofia , Comelli Elena M.
Published: February 2019

In vitro and in vivo studies suggest that selected Bifidobacterium bifidum strains sustain intestinal homeostasis. This study aimed to examine whether the administration of B. bifidum MIMBb75 (BB75) attenuates Citrobacter rodentium infection, a murine model for enteric infection and inflammatory bowel disease in humans. C57Bl6/J mice were randomized to receive BB75 daily starting before or after C. rodentium infection. BB75 load and infection kinetics were monitored. On day 10 post-infection (p.i.), histological parameters of the large intestine were assessed. Barrier integrity was evaluated by pathogen translocation to secondary organs and in vivo permeability test. Fecal C. rodentium load peaked at 1010 CFU/g at day 10 p.i., with clearance at day 24 p.i., regardless of probiotic treatment. BB75 administration resulted in 107 cells/g of feces with no effect of timing of administration. BB75 treatment did not attenuate C. rodentium-induced crypt hyperplasia nor inflammation. C. rodentium and BB75 can co-exist in the gut with no mutual displacement. However, BB75 cannot counteract C. rodentium pathology. Our findings provide insight for the understanding of probiotics behavior and their clinical relevance in intestinal inflammation.
ATP- and Polyphosphate-Dependent Glucokinases from Aerobic Methanotrophs
Authors: Reshetnikov Alexander S. , Solntseva Natalia P. , Rozova Olga N. , Mustakhimov Ildar I. , Trotsenko Yuri A. , Khmelenina Valentina N.
Published: February 2019

The genes encoding adenosine triphosphate (ATP)- and polyphosphate (polyP)-dependent glucokinases (Glk) were identified in the aerobic obligate methanotroph Methylomonas sp. 12. The recombinant proteins were obtained by the heterologous expression of the glk genes in Esherichia coli. ATP-Glk behaved as a multimeric protein consisting of di-, tri-, tetra-, penta- and hexamers with a subunit molecular mass of 35.5 kDa. ATP-Glk phosphorylated glucose and glucosamine using ATP (100% activity), uridine triphosphate (UTP) (85%) or guanosine triphosphate (GTP) (71%) as a phosphoryl donor and exhibited the highest activity in the presence of 5 mM Mg2+ at pH 7.5 and 65 °C but was fully inactivated after a short-term incubation at this temperature. According to a gel filtration in the presence of polyP, the polyP-dependent Glk was a dimeric protein (2 × 28 kDa). PolyP-Glk phosphorylated glucose, mannose, 2-deoxy-D-glucose, glucosamine and N-acetylglucosamine using polyP as the phosphoryl donor but not using nucleoside triphosphates. The Km values of ATP-Glk for glucose and ATP were about 78 μM, and the Km values of polyP-Glk for glucose and polyP(n=45) were 450 and 21 μM, respectively. The genomic analysis of methanotrophs showed that ATP-dependent glucokinase is present in all sequenced methanotrophs, with the exception of the genera Methylosinus and Methylocystis, whereas polyP-Glks were found in all species of the genus Methylomonas and in Methylomarinum vadi only. This work presents the first characterization of polyphosphate specific glucokinase in a methanotrophic bacterium.
Efficient Synthesis of UDP-Furanoses via 4,5-Dicyanoimidazole(DCI)-Promoted Coupling of Furanosyl-1-Phosphates with Uridine Phosphoropiperidate
Authors: Chen Wei-Jie , Han Shuai-Bo , Xie Zhen-Biao , Huang Hua-Shan , Jiang Duo-Hua , Gong Shan-Shan , Sun Qi
Published: February 2019

A P(V)-N activation method based on nucleoside phosphoropiperidate/DCI system has been developed for improved synthesis of diverse UDP-furanoses. The reaction conditions including temperature, amount of activator, and reaction time were optimized to alleviate the degradation of UDP-furanoses to cyclic phosphates. In addition, an efficient and facile phosphoramidite route was employed for the preparation of furanosyl-1-phosphates.
High Sensitive Immunoelectrochemical Measurement of Lung Cancer Tumor Marker ProGRP Based on TiO2-Au Nanocomposite
Authors: Wei Zheng , Cai Xiaoping , Zhang Junping , Fan Junming , Xu Jiangyan , Xu Liran
Published: February 2019

Progastrin-releasing peptide (ProGRP), which is known to be highly specific and sensitive to small cell lung cancer (SCLC), has been proven to be a valuable substitute for neuron-specific enolase in SCLC diagnostics and monitoring, especially in its early stages. The detection of ProGRP levels also facilitates a selection of therapeutic treatments. For the fabrication of our proposed biosensor, titanium (IV) oxide microparticles were first used, followed by dispersing gold nanoparticles into chitosan and immobilizing them onto a carbon paste electrode (CPE) surface. The developed immunosensor exhibits a much higher biosensing performance in comparison with current methods, when it comes to the detection of ProGRP. Therefore, the proposed CPE/TiO2/(CS+AuNPs)/anti-ProGRP/BSA/ProGRP is excellent for the development of a compact diagnostics apparatus.
Increased Phenolic Content and Enhanced Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Glutinous Rice Supplemented with Fu Brick Tea
Authors: Xu Xiao , Hu Wenxiu , Zhou Siduo , Tu Chuanhai , Xia Xiudong , Zhang Juanmei , Dong Mingsheng
Published: February 2019

Glutinous rice-based foods have a long history are consumed worldwide. They are also in great demand for the pursuit of novel sensory and natural health benefits. In this study, we developed a novel fermented glutinous rice product with the supplementation of Fu brick tea. Using in vitro antioxidant evaluation and phenolic compounds analysis, fermentation with Fu brick tea increased the total phenolic content and enhanced the antioxidant activity of glutinous rice, including scavenging of 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical, 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical, and hydroxyl radical, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and ferric ion reducing power and iron chelating capability. Besides, compared with traditional fermented glutinous rice, this novel functional food exhibited a stronger activity for protecting DNA against hydroxyl radical-induced oxidation damage. Quantitative analysis by HPLC identified 14 compounds covering catechins and phenolic acids, which were considered to be positively related to the enhanced antioxidant capability. Furthermore, we found that 80% ethanol was a suitable extract solvent compared with water, because of its higher extraction efficiency and stronger functional activities. Our results suggested that this novel fermented glutinous rice could serve as a nutraceutical food/ingredient with special sensory and functional activities.
Catalytic Performance of Nitrogen-Doped Activated Carbon Supported Pd Catalyst for Hydrodechlorination of 2,4-Dichlorophenol or Chloropentafluoroethane
Authors: Tang Haodong , Xu Bin , Xiang Meng , Chen Xinxin , Wang Yao , Liu Zongjian
Published: February 2019

Nitrogen-doped activated carbon (N-AC) obtained through the thermal treatment of a mixture of HNO3-pretreated activated carbon (AC) and urea under N2 atmosphere at 600 °C was used as the carrier of Pd catalyst for both liquid-phase hydrodechlorination of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) and gas-phase hydrodechlorination of chloropentafluoroethane (R-115). The effects of nitrogen doping on the dispersion and stability of Pd, atomic ratio of Pd/Pd2+ on the surface of the catalyzer, the catalyst’s hydrodechlorination activity, as well as the stability of N species in two different reaction systems were investigated. Our results suggest that, despite no improvement in the dispersion of Pd, nitrogen doping may significantly raise the atomic ratio of Pd/Pd2+ on the catalyst surface, with a value of 1.2 on Pd/AC but 2.2 on Pd/N-AC. Three types of N species, namely graphitic, pyridinic, and pyrrolic nitrogen, were observed on the surface of Pd/N-AC, and graphitic nitrogen was stable in both liquid-phase hydrodechlorination of 2,4-DCP and gas-phase hydrodechlorination of R-115, with pyridinic and pyrrolic nitrogen being unstable during gas-phase hydrodechlorination of R-115. As a result, the average size of Pd nanocrystals on Pd/N-AC was almost kept unchanged after liquid-phase hydrodechlorination of 2,4-DCP, whereas crystal growth of Pd was clearly observed on Pd/N-AC after gas-phase hydrodechlorination of R-115. The activity test revealed that Pd/N-AC exhibited a much better performance than Pd/AC in liquid-phase hydrodechlorination of 2,4-DCP, probably due to the enhanced stability of Pd exposed to the environment resulting from nitrogen doping as suggested by the higher atomic ratio of Pd/Pd2+ on the catalyst surface. In the gas-phase hydrodechlorination of R-115, however, a more rapid deactivation phenomenon occurred on Pd/N-AC than on Pd/AC despite a higher activity initially observed on Pd/N-AC, hinting that the stability of pyridinic and pyrrolic nitrogen plays an important role in the determination of catalytic performance of Pd/N-AC.
Multi-Organs-on-Chips: Towards Long-Term Biomedical Investigations
Authors: Zhao Yi , Kankala Ranjith Kumar , Wang Shi-Bin , Chen Ai-Zheng
Published: February 2019

With advantageous features such as minimizing the cost, time, and sample size requirements, organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems have garnered enormous interest from researchers for their ability for real-time monitoring of physical parameters by mimicking the in vivo microenvironment and the precise responses of xenobiotics, i.e., drug efficacy and toxicity over conventional two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, as well as animal models. Recent advancements of OOC systems have evidenced the fabrication of ‘multi-organ-on-chip’ (MOC) models, which connect separated organ chambers together to resemble an ideal pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) model for monitoring the complex interactions between multiple organs and the resultant dynamic responses of multiple organs to pharmaceutical compounds. Numerous varieties of MOC systems have been proposed, mainly focusing on the construction of these multi-organ models, while there are only few studies on how to realize continual, automated, and stable testing, which still remains a significant challenge in the development process of MOCs. Herein, this review emphasizes the recent advancements in realizing long-term testing of MOCs to promote their capability for real-time monitoring of multi-organ interactions and chronic cellular reactions more accurately and steadily over the available chip models. Efforts in this field are still ongoing for better performance in the assessment of preclinical attributes for a new chemical entity. Further, we give a brief overview on the various biomedical applications of long-term testing in MOCs, including several proposed applications and their potential utilization in the future. Finally, we summarize with perspectives.
Identification and Extraction Optimization of Active Constituents in Citrus junos Seib ex TANAKA Peel and Its Biological Evaluation
Authors: Shim Jung-hyun , Chae Jung-il , Cho Seung-sik
Published: February 2019

Citrus junos Seib ex TANAKA possesses various biological effects. It has been used in oriental remedies for blood circulation and the common cold. Recently, biological effects of C. junos peel have been reported. However, optimization of the biological properties of C. junos peel preparations has yet to be reported on. We developed a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for quantification of the active constituents in C. junos peel. Hot water and ethanolic extracts of C. junos peel were prepared and their chemical profiles and biological activities were evaluated. The 80% ethanolic extract demonstrated the greatest antioxidant activity and phenolic content, while the 100% ethanolic extract had the greatest xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. Elastase inhibition activity was superior in aqueous and 20% ethanolic extracts. The contents of two flavonoids were highest in the 100% ethanolic extract. We postulated that the antioxidant and anti-aging effects of C. junos peel extract could be attributed to phenolics such as flavonoids. Our results suggest that the flavonoid-rich extract of C. junos may be utilized for the treatment and prevention of metabolic disease and hyperuricemia while the water-soluble extract of C. junos could be used as a source for its anti-aging properties.
Changes of Phytochemical Components (Urushiols, Polyphenols, Gallotannins) and Antioxidant Capacity during Fomitella fraxinea–Mediated Fermentation of Toxicodendron vernicifluum Bark
Authors: Kim Da-Ham , Kim Min-Ji , Kim Dae-Woon , Kim Gi-Yoon , Kim Jong-Kuk , Gebru Yoseph Asmelash , Choi Han-Seok , Kim Young-Hoi , Kim Myung-Kon
Published: February 2019

The stem bark of Toxicodendron vernicifluum (TVSB) has been widely used as a traditional herbal medicine and food ingredients in Korea. However, its application has been restricted due to its potential to cause allergies. Moreover, there is limited data available on the qualitative and quantitative changes in the composition of its phytochemicals during fermentation. Although the Formitella fraxinea-mediated fermentation method has been reported as an effective detoxification tool, changes to its bioactive components and the antioxidant activity that takes place during its fermentation process have not yet been fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic changes of urushiols, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant properties during the fermentation of TVSB by mushroom F. fraxinea. The contents of urushiols, total polyphenols, and individual flavonoids (fisetin, fustin, sulfuretin, and butein) and 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (PGG) significantly decreased during the first 10 days of fermentation, with only a slight decrease thereafter until 22 days. Free radical scavenging activities using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6- sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) as an antioxidant function also decreased significantly during the first six to nine days of fermentation followed by a gentle decrease up until 22 days. These findings can be helpful in optimizing the F. fraxinea–mediated fermentation process of TVSB and developing functional foods with reduced allergy using fermented TVSB.
Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 Administration in CKD, Why Not?
Authors: Capelli Irene , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Gasperoni Lorenzo , Zappulo Fulvia , Tondolo Francesco , Cappuccilli Maria , La Manna Gaetano
Published: February 2019

Patients affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) experience a huge cardiovascular risk and cardiovascular events represent the leading causes of death. Since traditional risk factors cannot fully explain such increased cardiovascular risk, interest in non-traditional risk factors, such as hyperhomocysteinemia and folic acid and vitamin B12 metabolism impairment, is growing. Although elevated homocysteine blood levels are often seen in patients with CKD and ESRD, whether hyperhomocysteinemia represents a reliable cardiovascular and mortality risk marker or a therapeutic target in this population is still unclear. In addition, folic acid and vitamin B12 could not only be mere cofactors in the homocysteine metabolism; they may have a direct action in determining tissue damage and cardiovascular risk. The purpose of this review was to highlight homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin B12 metabolism impairment in CKD and ESRD and to summarize available evidences on hyperhomocysteinemia, folic acid and vitamin B12 as cardiovascular risk markers, therapeutic target and risk factors for CKD progression.
Salt Preference and Ability to Discriminate between Salt Content of Two Commercially Available Products of Australian Primary Schoolchildren
Authors: West Madeline , Liem Djin Gie , Booth Alison , Nowson Caryl , Grimes Carley
Published: February 2019

Australian children consume too much salt, primarily from processed foods where salt is often used to enhance flavour. Few studies have assessed children’s salt preference in commercially available foods. This study aims to assess (1) children’s preference and ability to discriminate between salt levels in two commercially available foods and (2) if preference or ability to discriminate between salt levels changes after an education program. Chips and corn flakes were tasted at three levels of salt concentration. Children ranked which they liked best (preference) and which was saltiest (ability to discriminate). The proportion of children across categorical responses was assessed (Chi squared and McNemar’s test) together with changes in preference and ability to discriminate between salt levels from timepoint 1 (T1) to timepoint 2 (T2). Ninety-two children (57% female, mean age 9.1 years (SD 0.8)) participated. At T1 approximately one-half and two-thirds of children preferred the highest salt chip and cornflake, respectively, (both p < 0.05). Fifty-seven percent and 63% of children identified the highest level of salt in chips and cornflakes as the saltiest, respectively. Preference and ability to discriminate between salt levels were unchanged between timepoints. Results support product reformulation to decrease salt content of foods provided to children.
Association between Lower Intake of Minerals and Depressive Symptoms among Elderly Japanese Women but Not Men: Findings from Shika Study
Authors: Thi Thu Nguyen Thao , Miyagi Sakae , Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Kambayashi Yasuhiro , Hara Akinori , Nakamura Haruki , Suzuki Keita , Yamada Yohei , Shimizu Yukari , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: February 2019

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine the relationship of mineral intake, including sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper and manganese, with depressive symptoms in both genders in the Japanese elderly population. A total of 1423 participants who were older than 65 years old were recruited in this study. Mineral intake was analyzed using a validated and brief self-administered diet history questionnaire. Depressive symptoms were assessed with a short version of the Geriatric Depression Scale. A logistic regression model was applied to determine the relationship between mineral intake and depressive symptoms. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 20%. Except for sodium and manganese, mineral intake was significantly lower in the depressive symptoms group. There was no difference of mineral intake between male participants with depressive symptoms and those without such symptoms. However, in female participants, mineral intake was significantly lower in participants with depressive symptoms compared to those without such symptoms. Potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper were significantly and negatively correlated with depressive symptoms among female participants, but not male participants. Our results suggest that the deficiencies in mineral intake may be related to depressive symptoms, especially in women.
Nutrition Knowledge Translation Performance in Health Professionals: Findings from the 2017 Unified Forces Preventive Nutrition Conference (UFPN)
Authors: Kaufman-Shriqui Vered , Salem Hagit , Birk Ruth , Boaz Mona
Published: February 2019

Background: Dietitians and other health care professionals must be able to translate findings from clinical trials into best treatment practices, a skill termed “knowledge translation”. This skill requires knowledge of treatment guidelines as well as the science underpinning treatment recommendations. Unsatisfactory knowledge translation of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) has been documented. Methods: Individuals registered to attend a leading national nutrition conference were asked to participate in an online cross-sectional survey. Participants were asked to provide demographic and professional information, answer questions on nutrition knowledge and to choose a clinical action plan in response to dietitian-designed case vignettes describing research outcomes. Responses were compared by profession and participation in research activities. Results: Of 3000 registered conference attendees, 299 individuals replied: 79.0% dietitians, 93.3% female, with a mean household income matching the 5th decile of income, 60.7% indicated a single employment setting, 20.7% reported participating in research. Almost 74% of respondents indicated that they would make clinical recommendations based on findings of an in vitro study. In one vignette, a patient with a disease previously not encountered by the respondent required a clinical treatment plan. Only 53% of participants chose to seek formal nutrition guidelines. Fewer than 15% of participants could identify the pathway for fat during weight loss. Differences in knowledge translation skills by research participation were not detected. Conclusions: Our findings reveal a deficit in knowledge translation proficiency in a convenience sample of dietitians and other health professionals, highlighting the need to develop these skills.
Preventive Effect of YGDEY from Tilapia Fish Skin Gelatin Hydrolysates against Alcohol-Induced Damage in HepG2 Cells through ROS-Mediated Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chen Mei-Fang , Gong Fang , Zhang Yuan Yuan , Li Chengyong , Zhou Chunxia , Hong Pengzhi , Sun Shengli , Qian Zhong-Ji
Published: February 2019

According to a previous study, YGDEY from tilapia fish skin gelatin hydrolysates has strong free radical scavenging activity. In the present study, the protective effect of YGDEY against oxidative stress induced by ethanol in HepG2 cells was investigated. First, cells were incubated with YGDEY (10, 20, 50, and 100 μM) to assess cytotoxicity, and there was no significant change in cell viability. Next, it was established that YGDEY decreased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Western blot results indicated that YGDEY increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) and decreased the expression of gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) in HepG2 cells. It was then revealed that YGDEY markedly reduced the expressions of bax and cleaved-caspase-3 (c-caspase-3); inhibited phosphorylation of Akt, IκB-α, p65, and p38; and increased the level of bcl-2. Moreover, the comet assay showed that YGDEY effectively decreased the amount of ethanol-induced DNA damage. Thus, YGDEY protected HepG2 cells from alcohol-induced injury by inhibiting oxidative stress, and this may be associated with the Akt/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathways. These results demonstrate that YGDEY from tilapia fish skin gelatin hydrolysates protects HepG2 cells from oxidative stress, making it a potential functional food ingredient.
Lycopene-Rich Extract from Red Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Decreases Plasma Triglycerides and Improves Oxidative Stress Biomarkers on Experimentally-Induced Dyslipidemia in Hamsters
Authors: Brito Ana Karolinne da Silva , Lima Geovanni de Morais , Farias Luciana Melo de , Rodrigues Lays Arnaud Rosal Lopes , Carvalho Vanessa Brito Lira de , Pereira Cristian Francisco de Carvalho , Frota Karoline de Macedo Gonçalves , Conde-Júnior Airton Mendes , Silva Ana Mara Oliveira , Rizzo Márcia dos Santos , Fonseca Clarisse Maria Barbosa , Moura Rayane Carvalho de , Santos Raimunda Cardoso dos , Leite José Roberto de Souza de Almeida , Santos Marcos Antônio Pereira dos , Nunes Paulo Humberto Moreira , Arcanjo Daniel Dias Rufino , Martins Maria do Carmo de Carvalho e
Published: February 2019

This work assessed the effects of a 28-day treatment with lycopene-rich extract (LRE) from red guava fruit (Psidium guajava L.) on the lipid profile and oxidative stress in an experimental model of dyslipidemia. Male hamsters (116.5 ± 2.16 g) were fed with the AIN 93G diet containing casein (20%), coconut fat (13.5%) and cholesterol (0.1%). The animals were divided into four groups: normolipidemic control (standard feed; NC, n = 7); hypercholesterolemic control (HC, n = 7); LRE 25 mg/kg/day (LRE-25, n = 7) and LRE 50 mg/kg/day (LRE-50, n = 9). After treatment, plasma concentrations of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-c), malondialdehyde (MDA-p) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), as well as erythrocytic superoxide dismutase (SOD-e) and the atherogenic index, were determined. Malondialdehyde (MDA-h), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD-h) levels were assessed. Feed intake (FI) and weight gain (WG) were also determined. The LRE-25 group presented significantly lower TG levels and atherogenic index than did the HC group (p < 0.05). Both LRE-25 and LRE-50 groups presented lower levels of MDA-p and MPO than did the HC group (p < 0.05). LRE demonstrated a promising effect against dyslipidemia and oxidative stress.
Time Trends in Age at Menarche and Related Non-Communicable Disease Risk during the 20th Century in Mexico
Authors: Petersohn Inga , Zarate-Ortiz Arli G. , Cepeda-Lopez Ana C. , Melse-Boonstra Alida
Published: February 2019

Developed countries have shown a time trend towards a younger age at menarche (AAM), which is associated with increased risk of later obesity and non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to assess whether a time trend in AAM is associated with disease risk in Mexican women (n = 30,826), using data from the Mexican National Health Survey (2000). Linear and log binomial regression was used for nutritional and disease outcomes, while Welch–ANOVA was used to test for a time trend. AAM (in years) decreased over time (p < 0.001), with a maximal difference of 0.99 years between the 1920s (13.6 years) and 1980s (12.6 years ). AAM was negatively associated with weight (β = −1.01 kg; 95% CI −1.006, −1.004) and body mass index (BMI) (β = −1.01 kg/m2; −1.007, −1.006), and positively with height (β = 0.18 cm; 0.112, 0.231). AAM was associated with diabetes (RR = 0.95; 0.93, 0.98) and hypercholesterolemia (RR = 0.93; 0.90, 0.95), but not with hypertension, breast cancer or arthritis. In Mexico, AAM decreased significantly during the 20th century. AAM was inversely associated with adult weight and BMI, and positively with height. Women with a later AAM had a lower risk of diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.
Erratum: Status of Retinoids and Carotenoids and Associations with Clinical Outcomes in Maternal-Infant Pairs in Nigeria. Nutrients 2018, 10, 1286
Authors: Hanson Corrine , Lyden Elizabeth , Anderson-Berry Ann , Kocmich Nicholas , Rezac Amy , Delair Shirley , Furtado Jeremy , Van Ormer Matthew , Izevbigie N. , Olateju EK , Akaba Godwin , Anigilaje EA , Yunusa Thairu , Obaro Stephen
Published: February 2019

Due to a mistake during the production process, there were spelling errors in four of the author names in the original published version [...]
Communicating Risk Regarding Food Consumption: The Case of Processed Meat
Authors: Zec Slavica , Minto Clara , Agostoni Carlo , Fano Carolina , Ocagli Honoria , Lorenzoni Giulia , Gregori Dario
Published: February 2019

The present research combines real data and parameters found in recent literature that were used to design realistic scenarios demonstrating the potential effects (benefits and costs) of the World Health Organization (WHO)’s risk communication regarding the consumption of processed meat, which was proven to be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in an International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)/WHO report. The impact of the risk communication of processed meat consumption was simulated using Monte Carlo microsimulation models. The results showed that a 1% reduction in the number of high-level processed meat consumers may lead to a yearly decrease in CRC cases of 406.43 (IC 95%: −243.94, 1056.81), while the more extreme scenario of a 15% reduction may lead to 2086.62 fewer cases (IC 95%: 1426.66, 2746.57). On the other hand, if demand contraction in the processed meat sector resulted in a 0.1% loss in employment, one could expect 27.23 all-cause mortalities attributable to job loss (IC 95%: 16.55, 37.80). This simulation study demonstrates that caution should be taken when implementing public awareness campaigns, particularly when the prevention message is not straightforward.
Evaluation of the Spray Drying Conditions of Blueberry Juice-Maltodextrin on the Yield, Content, and Retention of Quercetin 3-d-Galactoside
Authors: Saavedra-Leos María Z. , Leyva-Porras César , López-Martínez Laura A. , González-García Raúl , Martínez Joel O. , Compeán Martínez Isaac , Toxqui-Terán Alberto
Published: February 2019

The influence of the processing conditions during the spray drying of mixtures of blueberry juice (BJ) and maltodextrin (MX) was determined quantitatively by the analysis of variance (ANOVA), and qualitatively by the surface response plots (SRP). The effect of two independent variables (inlet temperature, and MX concentration), and one categorical variable (type of MX), was determined on the yield (Y), content (Q), and retention (R) of the antioxidant quercetin 3-d-galactoside. From the ANOVA results, the concentration was the main variable affecting Y and Q, while temperature had a negligible effect, and the low molecular weight MXs exhibited a better response. The physicochemical characterization showed that the powder appearance and microstructure remained unaffected, but size and morphology of the particles varied with the processing conditions. This study established the optimal processing conditions for the spray drying of BJ-MX, and the application limits of the MXs based on the molecular weight distribution.
Design of Elastomer-CNT Film Photoactuators for Nanolithography
Authors: Li Le , Huang Zhongjie , Wang YuHuang , Brown Keith A.
Published: February 2019

Polymer pen lithography (PPL) is an approach to multiplexing scanning probe lithography, in which an array of probes on a compliant film-coated rigid substrate are used to write patterns on a surface. Recently, it was shown that these nominally passive pen arrays can be rendered photo-active by making them out of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)–carbon nanotube (CNT) composite. While such photoactuated pens in principle represent a rapid, maskless, and versatile nanomanufacturing strategy, a key challenge that remains is learning how to effectively control the writing of each pen, individually. In this research, we studied the design of PDMS–CNT thin-film photoactuators and experimentally explored the role of illumination radius, film thickness, and CNT concentration. Additionally, we have proposed a model that predicts actuation efficiency, actuation time, and the crosstalk between pens. Based upon these results, we have generated a map of working efficiency to elucidate the ideal choice for specific actuation requirements. This work lays the foundation for studying further photoactuatable composite films as actuators in applications beyond lithography including soft robotics and adaptive optics.