bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aristoteline, an Indole-Alkaloid, Induces Relaxation by Activating Potassium Channels and Blocking Calcium Channels in Isolated Rat Aorta
Authors: Romero Fernando , Palacios Javier , Jofré Ignacio , Paz Cristian , Nwokocha Chukwuemeka R. , Paredes Adrián , Cifuentes Fredi
Published: July 2019

Alkaloids derived from plants have shown great medicinal benefits, and are often reported for their use in cardiovascular disease management. Aristotelia chilensis (Molina) Stuntz (Maqui) has shown important medicinal properties in traditional useage. In this study, we evaluated the effect of the indole-alkaloid aristoteline (ARI), isolated from leaves of Maqui, on vascular reactivity of isolated aortic rings from normotensive rats. ARI induced relaxation (100%) in a concentration-dependent manner in intact or denuded-endothelium aortic rings pre-contracted with phenylephrine (PE; 1 μM). However, a specific soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor (ODQ; 1 μM) significantly reduced the relaxation to ARI in aortic rings pre-contracted with PE. In the presence of ARI, the contraction induced by KCl or PE was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased. Interestingly, the potassium channel blockade with 10 μM BaCl2 (Kir), 10 μM glibenclamide (KATP), 1 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA; KCa1.1), or 1 mM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP; Kv) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the ARI-induced relaxation. ARI significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the contractile response to agonist of CaV1.2 channels (Bay K8644; 10 nM), likely reducing the influx of extracellular calcium through plasma membrane. The mechanisms associated with this process suggest an activation of the potassium channels, a calcium-induced antagonism and endothelium independent vasodilation that possibly involves the nitric oxide-independent soluble guanylate cyclase pathway.
Ursolic Acid and Its Derivatives as Bioactive Agents
Authors: Mlala Sithenkosi , Oyedeji Adebola Omowunmi , Gondwe Mavuto , Oyedeji Opeoluwa Oyehan
Published: July 2019

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases continue to be threatening and deadly to human kind. Resistance to and side effects of known drugs for treatment further increase the threat, while at the same time leaving scientists to search for alternative sources from nature, especially from plants. Pentacyclic triterpenoids (PT) from medicinal plants have been identified as one class of secondary metabolites that could play a critical role in the treatment and management of several NCDs. One of such PT is ursolic acid (UA, 3 β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid), which possesses important biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant and antibacterial effects, but its bioavailability and solubility limits its clinical application. Mimusops caffra, Ilex paraguarieni, and Glechoma hederacea, have been reported as major sources of UA. The chemistry of UA has been studied extensively based on the literature, with modifications mostly having been made at positions C-3 (hydroxyl), C12-C13 (double bonds) and C-28 (carboxylic acid), leading to several UA derivatives (esters, amides, oxadiazole quinolone, etc.) with enhanced potency, bioavailability and water solubility. This article comprehensively reviews the information that has become available over the last decade with respect to the sources, chemistry, biological potency and clinical trials of UA and its derivatives as potential therapeutic agents, with a focus on addressing NCDs.
Revisiting the Allosteric Regulation of Sodium Cation on the Binding of Adenosine at the Human A2A Adenosine Receptor: Insights from Supervised Molecular Dynamics (SuMD) Simulations
Authors: Bissaro Maicol , Bolcato Giovanni , Deganutti Giuseppe , Sturlese Mattia , Moro Stefano
Published: July 2019

One of the most intriguing findings highlighted from G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) crystallography is the presence, in many members of class A, of a partially hydrated sodium ion in the middle of the seven transmembrane helices (7TM) bundle. In particular, the human adenosine A2A receptor (A2A AR) is the first GPCR in which a monovalent sodium ion was crystallized in a distal site from the canonical orthosteric one, corroborating, from a structural point of view, its role as a negative allosteric modulator. However, the molecular mechanism by which the sodium ion influences the recognition of the A2A AR agonists is not yet fully understood. In this study, the supervised molecular dynamics (SuMD) technique was exploited to analyse the sodium ion recognition mechanism and how its presence influences the binding of the endogenous agonist adenosine. Due to a higher degree of flexibility of the receptor extracellular (EC) vestibule, we propose the sodium-bound A2A AR as less efficient in stabilizing the adenosine during the different steps of binding.
Therapeutic Perspectives of Molecules from Urtica dioica Extracts for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Esposito Sabrina , Bianco Alessandro , Russo Rosita , Di Maro Antimo , Isernia Carla , Pedone Paolo
Published: July 2019

A large range of chronic and degenerative diseases can be prevented through the use of food products and food bioactives. This study reports the health benefits and biological activities of the Urtica dioica (U. dioica) edible plant, with particular focus on its cancer chemopreventive potential. Numerous studies have attempted to investigate the most efficient anti-cancer therapy with few side effects and high toxicity on cancer cells to overcome the chemoresistance of cancer cells and the adverse effects of current therapies. In this regard, natural products from edible plants have been assessed as sources of anti-cancer agents. In this article, we review current knowledge from studies that have examined the cytotoxic, anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects of U. dioica plant on several human cancers. Special attention has been dedicated to the treatment of breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer among women and one of the main causes of death worldwide. The anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of U. dioica have been demonstrated on different human cancers, investigating the properties of U. dioica at cellular and molecular levels. The potent cytotoxicity and anti-cancer activity of the U. dioica extracts are due to its bioactive natural products content, including polyphenols which reportedly possess anti-oxidant, anti-mutagenic and anti-proliferative properties. The efficacy of this edible plant to prevent or mitigate human cancers has been demonstrated in laboratory conditions as well as in experimental animal models, paving the way to the development of nutraceuticals for new anti-cancer therapies.
Improving Signal and Photobleaching Characteristics of Temporal Focusing Microscopy with the Increase in Pulse Repetition Rate
Authors: Lisicovas Viktoras , Mariserla Bala Murali Krishna , Sahoo Chakradhar , Harding Reuben T. , Man Michael K. L. , Wong E Laine , Madéo Julien , Dani Keshav M.
Published: July 2019

Wide-field temporal focused (WF-TeFo) two-photon microscopy allows for the simultaneous imaging of a large planar area, with a potential order of magnitude enhancement in the speed of volumetric imaging. To date, low repetition rate laser sources with over half a millijoule per pulse have been required in order to provide the high peak power densities for effective two-photon excitation over the large area. However, this configuration suffers from reduced signal intensity due to the low repetition rate, saturation effects due to increased excitation fluences, as well as faster photobleaching of the fluorescence probe. In contrast, with the recent advent of high repetition rate, high pulse energy laser systems could potentially provide the advantages of high repetition rate systems that are seen in traditional two-photon microscopes, while minimizing the negatives of high fluences in WF-TeFo setups to date. Here, we use a 100 microjoule/high repetition rate (50–100 kHz) laser system to investigate the performance of a WF-TeFo two-photon microscope. While using micro-beads as a sample, we demonstrate a proportionate increase in signal intensity with repetition rate, at no added cost in photobleaching. By decreasing pulse intensity, via a corresponding increase in repetition rate to maintain fluorescence signal intensity, we find that the photobleaching rate is reduced by ~98.4%. We then image live C. elegans at a high repetition rate for 25 min. as a proof-of-principle. Lastly, we identify the steady state temperature increase as the limiting process in further increasing the repetition rate, and we estimate that repetition rate in the range between 0.5 and 5 MHz is ideal for live imaging with a simple theoretical model. With new generation low-cost fiber laser systems offering high pulse energy/high repetition rates in what is essentially a turn-key solution, we anticipate increased adoption of this microscopy technique by the neuroscience community.
Nanoporous Gold and Other Related Materials
Authors: Stine Keith J.
Published: July 2019

The field of nanomaterials continues to expand with the discovery of new nanostructures opening up new possibilities for both the study of unique physical properties and new applications [...]
Facile Synthesis of Sn/Nitrogen-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites with Superb Lithium Storage Properties
Authors: Sun Quan , Huang Ying , Wu Shi , Gao Zhonghui , Liu Hang , Hu Pei , Qie Long
Published: July 2019

Sn/Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (Sn@N-G) composites have been successfully synthesized via a facile method for lithium-ion batteries. Compared with the Sn or Sn/graphene anodes, the Sn@N-G anode exhibits a superb rate capability of 535 mAh g−1 at 2C and cycling stability up to 300 cycles at 0.5C. The improved lithium-storage performance of Sn@N-G anode could be ascribed to the effective graphene wrapping, which accommodates the large volume change of Sn during the charge–discharge process, while the nitrogen doping increases the electronic conductivity of graphene, as well as provides a large number of active sites as reservoirs for Li+ storage.
Conformal High-K Dielectric Coating of Suspended Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Kemelbay Aidar , Tikhonov Alexander , Aloni Shaul , Kuykendall Tevye R.
Published: July 2019

As one of the highest mobility semiconductor materials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been extensively studied for use in field effect transistors (FETs). To fabricate surround-gate FETs— which offer the best switching performance—deposition of conformal, weakly-interacting dielectric layers is necessary. This is challenging due to the chemically inert surface of CNTs and a lack of nucleation sites—especially for defect-free CNTs. As a result, a technique that enables integration of uniform high-k dielectrics, while preserving the CNT’s exceptional properties is required. In this work, we show a method that enables conformal atomic layer deposition (ALD) of high-k dielectrics on defect-free CNTs. By depositing a thin Ti metal film, followed by oxidation to TiO2 under ambient conditions, a nucleation layer is formed for subsequent ALD deposition of Al2O3. The technique is easy to implement and is VLSI-compatible. We show that the ALD coatings are uniform, continuous and conformal, and Raman spectroscopy reveals that the technique does not induce defects in the CNT. The resulting bilayer TiO2/Al2O3 thin-film shows an improved dielectric constant of 21.7 and an equivalent oxide thickness of 2.7 nm. The electrical properties of back-gated and top-gated devices fabricated using this method are presented.
Cell In Vitro Testing with Soil Invertebrates—Challenges and Opportunities toward Modeling the Effect of Nanomaterials: A Surface-Modified CuO Case Study
Authors: Ribeiro Maria J. , Amorim Mónica J.B. , Scott-Fordsmand Janeck J.
Published: July 2019

Soil invertebrates have been widely used in ecotoxicology studies for decades, although their use as in vitro models, albeit promising, has not been pursued as much. The immune cells of earthworms (coelomocytes) and the coelomic fluid can be used, and are a highly relevant in vitro system. Although it has been tested before, to cover the testing of nanomaterials (NMs), several challenges should be considered. NMs characteristics (dispersibility, agglomeration, etc.) can interfere with the common in vitro methodologies, not only during exposure, but also during the measurements. Here, we have assessed the effect of a CuO NMs case study using surface-modified particles, functionalized for safe-by-design strategies with ascorbate, citrate, polyethylenimine, and polyvinylpyrrolidinone, plus the pristine CuO NMs and copper chloride (CuCl2) for comparison. Eisenia fetida’s coelomocytes were exposed for 24 h via the coelomic fluid. Changes in cell viability were evaluated using flow cytometry. All materials affected the cells in a dose-related manner, where CuCl2 was the most toxic followed by the citrate-coated CuO NM. There was a strong correlation between NM characteristics, e.g., the hydrodynamic size, and the EC50 (50% Effect Concentrations) values. This screening further confirms the potential for the usage of the standard earthworm model as an in vitro standard. Further detailed in vitro studies are needed using other NMs aiming toward their implementation and standardization. Additional cell endpoints can also be assessed, making it a high content tool for mechanistic understanding.
Tangeretin-Assisted Platinum Nanoparticles Enhance the Apoptotic Properties of Doxorubicin: Combination Therapy for Osteosarcoma Treatment
Authors: Gurunathan Sangiliyandi , Jeyaraj Muniyandi , Kang Min-Hee , Kim Jin-Hoi
Published: July 2019

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common type of cancer and the most frequent malignant bone tumor in childhood and adolescence. Nanomedicine has become an indispensable field in biomedical and clinical research, with nanoparticles (NPs) promising to increase the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug against OS; however, it causes severe side effects that restrict its clinical applications. Here, we investigated whether combining platinum NPs (PtNPs) and DOX could increase their anticancer activity in human bone OS epithelial cells (U2OS). PtNPs with nontoxic, effective, thermally stable, and thermoplasmonic properties were synthesized and characterized using tangeretin. We examined the combined effects of PtNPs and DOX on cell viability, proliferation, and morphology, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, protein carbonyl content, antioxidants, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) level, apoptotic and antiapoptotic gene expression, oxidative stress-induced DNA damage, and DNA repair genes. PtNPs and DOX significantly inhibited U2OS viability and proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, increasing lactate dehydrogenase leakage, ROS generation, and malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and carbonylated protein levels. Mitochondrial dysfunction was confirmed by reduced MMP, decreased ATP levels, and upregulated apoptotic/downregulated antiapoptotic gene expression. Oxidative stress was a major cause of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, confirmed by decreased levels of various antioxidants. Furthermore, PtNPs and DOX increased 8-oxo-dG and 8-oxo-G levels and induced DNA damage and repair gene expression. Combination of cisplatin and DOX potentially induce apoptosis comparable to PtNPs and DOX. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to describe the combined effects of PtNPs and DOX in OS.
Cow’s Milk Substitutes for Children: Nutritional Aspects of Milk from Different Mammalian Species, Special Formula and Plant-Based Beverages
Authors: Verduci Elvira , D’Elios Sofia , Cerrato Lucia , Comberiati Pasquale , Calvani Mauro , Palazzo Samuele , Martelli Alberto , Landi Massimo , Trikamjee Thulja , Peroni Diego G
Published: July 2019

Cow’s milk and dairy are commonly consumed foods in the human diet and contribute to maintaining a healthy nutritional state, providing unique sources of energy, calcium, protein, and vitamins, especially during early childhood. Milk formula is usually made from cow’s milk and represents the first food introduced into an infant’s diet when breastfeeding is either not possible or insufficient to cover nutritional needs. Very recently, increased awareness of cow’s milk protein allergy and intolerance, and higher preference to vegan dietary habits have influenced parents towards frequently choosing cows’ milk substitutes for children, comprising other mammalian milk types and plant-based milk beverages. However, many of these milk alternatives do not necessarily address the nutritional requirements of infants and children. There is a strong need to promote awareness about qualitative and quantitative nutritional compositions of different milk formulas, in order to guide parents and medical providers selecting the best option for children. In this article, we sought to review the different compositions in terms of macronutrients and micronutrients of milk from different mammalian species, including special milk formulas indicated for cow’s milk allergy, and of plant-based milk alternatives.
Diet and Nutrition in IBD—Progress and Gaps
Authors: Raman Maitreyi , Ghosh Subrata
Published: July 2019

The incidence and prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has rapidly increased worldwide and now is a global disease with some of the highest rates observed in North America [...]
The Baseline Nutritional Status Predicts Long-Term Mortality in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Therapy
Authors: Mizobuchi Keiko , Jujo Kentaro , Minami Yuichiro , Ishida Issei , Nakao Masashi , Hagiwara Nobuhisa
Published: July 2019

Introduction: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs at an advanced stage of atherosclerosis and its comorbidities are associated with poor prognoses. Malnutrition is related to the severity of atherosclerosis in patients with cardiovascular disease and it predicts mortality. The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score is calculated from serum albumin concentration, peripheral lymphocyte count and total cholesterol concentration, and it robustly represents the nutritional status of hospitalized patients. This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of the CONUT score in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) who were undergoing endovascular therapy (EVT). METHODS and RESULTS: This study included 628 PAD patients who underwent EVT between 2013 and 2017 and were assigned to low (CONUT score 0: n = 81), mild (CONUT score 1–2: n = 250), moderate (CONUT score 3–4: n = 169), and high (CONUT score ≥ 5: n = 128) risk groups. The study’s primary endpoint was any death. Patients in the groups with higher CONUT scores were more likely to have chronic kidney disease (p < 0.001), impaired left ventricular ejection fractions (p < 0.001), and critical limb ischemia (p < 0.001) on admission. During follow-up, 95 patients (15%) died. Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed that the patients with higher CONUT scores had lower survival rates (p < 0.001; log-rank trend test). Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that following adjustments for the confounding factors, a higher CONUT score was significantly associated with any death (hazard ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.30). CONCLUSION: The simple index CONUT score at the time of EVT may predict long-term mortality in PAD patients.
Serological Data Shows Low Levels of Chikungunya Exposure in Senegalese Nomadic Pastoralists
Authors: Seck Mame Cheikh , Badiane Aida Sadikh , Thwing Julie , Moss Delynn , Fall Fatou Ba , Gomis Jules Francois , Deme Awa Bineta , Diongue Khadim , Sy Mohamed , Mbaye Aminata , Ndiaye Tolla , Gaye Aminata , Ndiaye Yaye Die , Diallo Mamadou Alpha , Ndiaye Daouda , Rogier Eric
Published: July 2019

The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is spread by Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitos worldwide; infection can lead to disease including joint pain, fever, and rash, with some convalescent persons experiencing chronic symptoms. Historically, CHIKV transmission has occurred in Africa and Asia, but recent outbreaks have taken place in Europe, Indonesia, and the Americas. From September to October 2014, a survey was undertaken with nomadic pastoralists residing in the northeast departments of Senegal. Blood dried on filter paper (dried blood spots; DBS) were collected from 1465 participants of all ages, and assayed for Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against CHIKV E1 antigen by a bead-based multiplex assay. The overall seroprevalence of all participants to CHIKV E1 was 2.7%, with no persons under 10 years of age found to be antibody positive. Above 10 years of age, clear increases of seroprevalence and IgG levels were observed with increasing age; 7.6% of participants older than 50 years were found to be positive for anti-CHIKV IgG. Reported net ownership, net usage, and gender were all non-significant explanatory variables of seropositivity. These data show a low-level historical exposure of this pastoralist population to CHIKV, with no evidence of recent CHIKV transmission in the past decade.
Molecular Analysis of Canine Filaria and Its Wolbachia Endosymbionts in Domestic Dogs Collected from Two Animal University Hospitals in Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Thailand
Authors: Satjawongvanit Hathaithip , Phumee Atchara , Tiawsirisup Sonthaya , Sungpradit Sivapong , Brownell Narisa , Siriyasatien Padet , Preativatanyou Kanok
Published: July 2019

Canine filariasis is caused by several nematode species, such as Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilaria repens, Brugia pahangi, Brugia malayi, and Acanthocheilonema reconditum. Zoonotic filariasis is one of the world’s neglected tropical diseases. Since 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) has promoted a global filarial eradication program to eliminate filariasis by 2020. Apart from vector control strategies, the infection control of reservoir hosts is necessary for more effective filariasis control. In addition, many studies have reported that Wolbachia is necessary for the development, reproduction, and survival of the filarial nematode. Consequently, the use of antibiotics to kill Wolbachia in nematodes has now become an alternative strategy to control filariasis. Previously, a case of subconjunctival dirofilariasis caused by Dirofilaria spp. has been reported in a woman who resides in the center of Bangkok, Thailand. Therefore, our study aimed to principally demonstrate the presence of filarial nematodes and Wolbachia bacteria in blood collected from domestic dogs from the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Thailand. A total of 57 blood samples from dogs with suspected dirofilariasis who had visited veterinary clinics in Bangkok were collected. The investigations for the presence of microfilaria were carried out by using both microscopic and molecular examinations. PCR was used as the molecular detection method for the filarial nematodes based on the COI and ITS1 regions. The demonstration of Wolbachia was performed using PCR to amplify the FtsZ gene. All positive samples by PCR were then cloned and sequenced. The results showed that the filarial nematodes were detected in 16 samples (28.07%) using microscopic examinations. The molecular detection of filarial species using COI-PCR revealed that 50 samples (87.72%) were positive; these consisted of 33 (57.89%), 13 (22.81%), and 4 (7.02%) samples for D. immitis, B. pahangi, and B. malayi, respectively. While the ITS1-PCR showed that 41 samples (71.93%) were positive—30 samples (52.63%) were identified as containing D. immitis and 11 samples (19.30%) were identified to have B. pahangi, whereas B. malayi was not detected. Forty-seven samples (82.45%) were positive for Wolbachia DNA and the phylogenetic tree of all positive Wolbachia was classified into the supergroup C clade. This study has established fundamental data on filariasis associated with Wolbachia infection in domestic dogs in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. An extensive survey of dog blood samples would provide valuable epidemiologic data on potential zoonotic filariasis in Thailand. In addition, this information could be used for the future development of more effective prevention and control strategies for canine filariasis in Thailand.
Multi-Lineage Evolution in Viral Populations Driven by Host Immune Systems
Authors: Marchi Jacopo , Lässig Michael , Mora Thierry , Walczak Aleksandra M.
Published: July 2019

Viruses evolve in the background of host immune systems that exert selective pressure and drive viral evolutionary trajectories. This interaction leads to different evolutionary patterns in antigenic space. Examples observed in nature include the effectively one-dimensional escape characteristic of influenza A and the prolonged coexistence of lineages in influenza B. Here, we use an evolutionary model for viruses in the presence of immune host systems with finite memory to obtain a phase diagram of evolutionary patterns in a two-dimensional antigenic space. We find that, for small effective mutation rates and mutation jump ranges, a single lineage is the only stable solution. Large effective mutation rates combined with large mutational jumps in antigenic space lead to multiple stably co-existing lineages over prolonged evolutionary periods. These results combined with observations from data constrain the parameter regimes for the adaptation of viruses, including influenza.
Comparative Pathobiology of the Intestinal Protozoan Parasites Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Hemphill Andrew , Müller Norbert , Müller Joachim
Published: July 2019

Protozoan parasites can infect the human intestinal tract causing serious diseases. In the following article, we focused on the three most prominent intestinal protozoan pathogens, namely, Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cryptosporidium parvum. Both C. parvum and G. lamblia colonize the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum and are the most common causative agents of persistent diarrhea (i.e., cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis). Entamoeba histolytica colonizes the colon and, unlike the two former pathogens, may invade the colon wall and disseminate to other organs, mainly the liver, thereby causing life-threatening amebiasis. Here, we present condensed information concerning the pathobiology of these three diseases.
Novel Treatment Targets Based on Insights in the Etiology of Depression: Role of IL-6 Trans-Signaling and Stress-Induced Elevation of Glutamate and ATP
Authors: Kalkman Hans O.
Published: July 2019

Inflammation and psychological stress are risk factors for major depression and suicide. Both increase central glutamate levels and activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Both factors also affect the function of the chloride transporters, Na-K-Cl-cotransporter-1 (NKCC1) and K-Cl-cotransporter-2 (KCC2), and provoke interleukin-6 (IL-6) trans-signaling. This leads to measurable increases in circulating corticosteroids, catecholamines, anxiety, somatic and psychological symptoms, and a decline in cognitive functions. Recognition of the sequence of pathological events allows the prediction of novel targets for therapeutic intervention. Amongst others, these include blockade of the big-K potassium channel, blockade of the P2X4 channel, TYK2-kinase inhibition, noradrenaline α2B-receptor antagonism, nicotinic α7-receptor stimulation, and the Sgp130Fc antibody. A better understanding of downstream processes evoked by inflammation and stress also allows suggestions for tentatively better biomarkers (e.g., SERPINA3N, MARCKS, or 13C-tryptophan metabolism).
Soybean Yield and Seed Composition Changes in Response to Increasing Atmospheric CO2 Concentration in Short-Season Canada
Authors: Cober Elroy R. , Morrison Malcolm J.
Published: July 2019

From 1993, we have conducted trials with the same set of old to newer soybean cultivars to determine the impact of plant breeding on seed yield, physiological and agronomic characteristics, and seed composition. Since 1993, global atmospheric [CO2] increased by 47 ppm. The objective of our current analysis with this data set was to determine if there were changes in soybean seed yield, quality or phenology attributable to elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration (eCO2), temperature or precipitation. Additionally, we estimated genetic gain annually. Over 23 years, there was a significant increase in atmospheric [CO2] but not in-season average maximum or minimum temperatures, or average in-season precipitation. Seed yield was increased significantly by eCO2, higher precipitation and higher minimum temperatures during flowering and podding. Yield decreased with higher minimum temperatures during vegetative growth and seed filling. Seed oil and also seed protein plus oil concentrations were both reduced with eCO2. Phenology has also changed, with soybean cultivars spending less time in vegetative growth, while time to maturity remained constant. Over the 23 years of the study, genetic improvement rates decreased as [CO2] increased. Newer cultivars are not better adapted to eCO2 and soybean breeders may need to intentionally select for favourable responses to eCO2 in the future.
Characterisation of Polyamide (PA)12 Nanocomposites with Montmorillonite (MMT) Filler Clay Used for the Incremental Forming of Sheets
Authors: Borić Andrej , Kalendová Alena , Urbanek Michal , Pepelnjak Tomaž
Published: July 2019

In this paper, the preparation and characterisation of polymer materials suitable for single point incremental forming (SPIF) technology were performed. Three different kinds of mixtures were selected: a mixture of neat polyamide 12 (PA12), a nanocomposite with PA12 matrix and 1% clay (Cloisite 93A), and a nanocomposite with PA12 matrix and 3% clay (Cloisite 93A). Materials were produced using a melt intercalation method followed by compression moulding. According to the needs of SPIF technology, morphological and mechanical properties were investigated in the obtained mixtures. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize morphological properties. It was determined that the most desired obtained exfoliated structure of clay in the polymer matrix was achieved. Static tensile testing and dynamic mechanical analysis as well as the determination of glass transition temperature and crystallinity of all analysed materials were used to obtain mechanical and thermal properties of the mixtures. The results obtained for each mixture were compared with respect to the content of clay. The content of clay (Cloisite 93A) showed a strong influence on the properties of the obtained materials. The presence of clay (Cloisite 93A) affected the increase of tensile strength and Young’s modulus, while its influence on the attained elongation was not unique.
Laboratory Investigation of Lignocellulosic Biomass as Performance Improver for Bituminous Materials
Authors: Wang Duanyi , Cai Zhiwei , Zhang Zeyu , Xu Xinquan , Yu Huayang
Published: July 2019

Lignocellulosic biomass has gained increasing attention as a performance modifier for bituminous material due to the vast amount available, its low cost and its potential to improve the durability of pavement. However, a comprehensive study concerning both the binder and mixture performance of modified bituminous material with lignocellulose is still limited. This research aims to evaluate the feasibility of applying lignocellulose as bitumen modifier by rheological, chemical and mechanical tests. To this end, two lignocellulosic biomass modified bituminous binders and corresponding mixtures were prepared and tested. The chemical characterization revealed the interaction between lignocellulosic biomass and bitumen fractions. Rheological test results have shown that lignocellulosic modifiers improve the overall performance of bituminous binder at high, intermediate and low temperatures. The findings obtained by mixture mechanical tests were identical to the binder test results, proving the positive effect of lignocellulosic biomass on overall paving performance of bituminous materials. Although lignocellulosic modifier slightly deteriorates the bitumen workability, the modified bitumen still meets the viscosity requirements mentioned in Superpave specification. This paper suggests that lignocellulosic biomass is a promising modifier for bituminous materials with both engineering and economic merits. Future study will focus on field validation and life cycle assessment of bituminous pavement with lignocellulosic biomass.
Effect of Recycled Plastic Granules as a Partial Substitute for Natural Resource Sand on the Durability of SCC
Authors: Chunchu Bala Rama Krishna , Putta Jagadeesh
Published: July 2019

This investigation is focused on durability studies of binary blended self-compacting concrete (SCC) with the replacement effect of electronic plastic waste, namely high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) granules as partial sand. In the current investigation, for all the SCC mixes, cement is replaced with pozzolanic material fly ash in the binder content of 497 kg/m3 and an adopted water-to-binder ratio of 0.36. Durability properties such as porosity, water absorption, and sorptivity are assessed for the curing periods of 28 and 90 days on SCC specimens produced with HIPS (0%–40% replacement by volume of sand). Both surface and internal water absorption rates were found to be minimal for SCC with HIPS. Replacement of HIPS up to 30% in SCC exhibited improved trends for all tests results. Reported durability parameter values were within permissible limits and revealed the excellent performance of HIPS in SCC. The optimum durability values can be attributed to the dense microstructure of SCC obtained with the combined effect of HIPS and fly ash. The continuous gradation of aggregates in the matrix reduced porosity due to the spherical shape of HIPS; additionally, the hydrophobicity of HIPS inhibits moisture migration in SCC. The additional benefits of fly ash, such as pozzolanic action and the filler effect at the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) are also major contributions to the long-term performance of durability. Electronic plastic waste replacement for fine aggregates in concrete compensates for the disposal problem and conserves natural sand.
Towards a Data-Derived Observation Error Covariance Matrix for Satellite Measurements
Authors: Liu Yan-An , Li Zhenglong , Huang Melin
Published: July 2019

The observation error covariance (R) matrix is a key component in the data assimilation (DA) process for retrieval of atmospheric state parameters (ASPs), also impacting the subsequent numerical weather forecast. However, one commonly used type of R matrix depends on instrument noise, which contravenes reality because the retrieved ASPs would depend on the instrument used. Other types of R matrix rely on the observation operator (H), analyzed state ( x a ), background error covariance (B) matrix or the background state ( x b ), and the selected forecast ensemble. All these dependences reduce the representativeness of the R matrix, since the correctness of H needs verification and no true values exist for x a or x b . As such, a better method to correctly specify the R matrix is needed. Through the physical mechanism occurring between incident radiation and particles in the atmosphere, which complies with the phenomena of energy absorption and emission, correlations among bands or channels in a detected atmospheric radiance spectrum occur. This paper thus proposes a data-derived R matrix based on a large number (N) of detected atmospheric radiance spectra constructed from N real-time measurements, where N real-time measurements can be acquired by staring at some observation location of interest during a short amount of time. This data-derived R matrix for satellite radiance observations does not rely on any assumed quantities and is unambiguous. Technically, recording N real-time measurements is achievable by modifying the trigger configuration of data recording from ground.
Different Agricultural Responses to Extreme Drought Events in Neighboring Counties of South and North Korea
Authors: Ryu Jae-Hyun , Han Kyung-Soo , Lee Yang-Won , Park No-Wook , Hong Sungwook , Chung Chu-Yong , Cho Jaeil
Published: July 2019

Satellite-based remote sensing techniques have been widely used to monitor droughts spanning large areas. Various agricultural drought indices have been developed to assess the intensity of agricultural drought and to detect damaged crop areas. However, to better understand the responses of agricultural drought to meteorological drought, agricultural management practices should be taken into consideration. This study aims to evaluate the responses to drought under different forms of agricultural management for the extreme drought that occurred on the Korean Peninsula in 2014 and 2015. The 3-month standardized precipitation index (SPI3) and the 3-month vegetation health index (VHI3) were selected as a meteorological drought index and an agricultural drought index, respectively. VHI3, which comprises the 3-month temperature condition index (TCI3) and the 3-month vegetation condition index (VCI3), differed significantly in the study area during the extreme drought. VCI3 had a different response to the lack of precipitation in South and North Korea because it was affected by irrigation. However, the time series of TCI3 were similar in South and North Korea. These results meant that each drought index has different characteristics and should be utilized with caution. Our results are expected to help comprehend the responses of the agricultural drought index on meteorological drought depending on agricultural management.
Effects of Listening to Preferred versus Non-Preferred Music on Repeated Wingate Anaerobic Test Performance
Authors: Ballmann Christopher G. , Maynard Daniel J. , Lafoon Zachary N. , Marshall Mallory R. , Williams Tyler D. , Rogers Rebecca R.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of listening to preferred or non-preferred music on repeated sprint performance. Fourteen physically active males (ages 18–25 years) were recruited for this study. In a counterbalanced crossover study design, participants completed two separate visits. During each visit, participants listened to either preferred or non-preferred music and completed 3 × 15 s Wingate Anaerobic Tests (WAnTs) separated by 2 min active recovery periods. Each visit was separated by a minimal recovery period of 48 h. Anaerobic performance measures, heart rate, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and motivation were analyzed. Mean power (p = 0.846, effect size (ES) = 0.019), anaerobic capacity (p = 0.686, ES = 0.058), and total work (p = 0.677, ES = 0.039) were not significantly different between preferred and non-preferred music conditions. Mean heart rate (p = 0.608; ES = 0.125) was also unchanged. Motivation to exercise (p < 0.001; ES = 1.520) was significantly higher in the preferred music condition. Additionally, the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) (p = 0.028; ES = 0.540) was significantly lower during the preferred music condition. Our results show that listening to preferred music showed no ergogenic benefit during repeated anaerobic cycling sprints when compared to non-preferred music. However, preferred music increased motivation to exercise and decreased perceived exertion. The results from this study could hold important implications for the application of music and enduring repeated high-intensity sprint exercise.
A Sustainability-Oriented Enhanced Indexation Model with Regime Switching and Cardinality Constraint
Authors: Chen Zhiping , Zhuang Xinkai , Liu Jia
Published: July 2019

Enhanced indexation is an active portfolio management strategy aimed to find a portfolio outperforming a market index. To ensure stable returns and to avoid extreme losses, a sensible enhanced indexation model should be sustainable, where the parameters of the model should be adjusted adaptively according to the market environment. Hence, in this paper, we propose a novel sustainable regime-based cardinality constrained enhanced indexation (RCEI) model, where different benchmarks and cardinalities can be imposed under different market regimes. By using historical observations, the RCEI model is transformed into a deterministic optimization problem with an ℓ 0 norm constraint. We design a partial penalty method coupled with the proximal alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) to solve the deterministic optimization problem. Numerical results in UK and US financial markets confirm the superb performance of the sustainability-oriented RCEI model and the efficiency of the algorithm.
Why Do Companies Choose Female CEOs?
Authors: Han Shuo , Cui Weijun , Chen Jin , Fu Yu
Published: July 2019

For the career development of chief executive officers (CEOs), the existing literature lacks research from the perspectives of gender and the environment. Starting with the perspective of the environment, and through the adoption of the World Bank Survey Data on Chinese Enterprises and China’s Comprehensive Social Survey (CGSS), this paper addresses the question: “Why do companies choose female CEOs?” The analysis examines 15 aspects, including enterprise scale, age, industry, owner, product market, market environment, city level, etc. The research findings are as follows. (1) The corporate environment has an impact on CEO gender, and there are differences in its nature and the degree of impact. Enterprise size, state-owned shareholding, radiation effect, market environment, and gender culture have a significant negative impact on female CEOs, while product features, industry characteristics, and female owners have a significantly positive impact on female CEOs. (2) In terms of the impact mechanism, the impact of the meso-environment on female CEOs is significantly adjusted by the macro-environment. This paper extends the existing theory from the perspectives of gender and the environment. Relevant policy recommendations are proposed to provide a theoretical basis for the government to promote women’s employment policies and provide effective suggestions for promoting women’s career development.
Farmers’ Knowledge, Perceptions and Practices in Managing Weeds and Insect Pests of Common Bean in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Laizer Hudson C. , Chacha Musa N. , Ndakidemi Patrick A.
Published: July 2019

Weeds and insect pests are among the serious constraints in common bean production in most rural communities. A survey of 169 smallholder farmers was conducted in two common bean-growing districts in northern Tanzania. The aim was to assess farmers’ knowledge, perceptions, current management practices and challenges in order to develop sustainable weed and insect pest management strategies. The results revealed that 83% of farmers perceived insect pests as the major constraint in common bean production, while 73% reported weeds as the main drawback. Insect pest management was mainly achieved through the use of synthetic pesticides, however, only 24% of farmers were able to apply, the rest could not afford due to high cost, limited access and lack of knowledge. Only 6.5% of farmers were aware of non-chemical methods and 2.1% did not practice any method in managing insect pests, both in the field and during storage. Moreover, farmers generally relied on experience in managing insect pests and weeds, and about 43% did not see the need to consult extension officers. These findings indicate that there is a need to sensitize and train farmers on the sustainable methods for pest and weed management in common bean farming systems in northern Tanzania.
Ultrafast Laser Surface Texturing: A Sustainable Tool to Modify Wettability Properties of Marble
Authors: López Ana J. , Ramil Alberto , Pozo-Antonio José S. , Rivas Teresa , Pereira Dolores
Published: July 2019

Conservation strategies to reduce the degradation of stone caused by the action of water are focusing on increasing the hydrophobicity of the surface by imitating existing solutions in nature (lotus leafs and others). These are mainly based on the existence of hierarchical roughness with micro- and nanoscale structures. In the case of marble, research has focused on protective coatings that sometimes are dangerous for the health and the environment, and with undesirable effects such as color changes or reduction of water vapor permeability of the stone. Laser texturing, however, is an environmentally friendly technique, because no chemicals or toxic waste are added and, moreover, it can process nearly all types of materials. It has been used to change the surface texture of metals and other materials on a micro or even nanometric scale, to meet a specific functional requirement, such as hydrophobicity. The objective of this work was to analyze the feasibility of this technique to provide hydrophobic properties to a marble surface without appreciable changes in its appearance. Therefore, an analysis of the irradiation parameters with ultra-short-pulse laser was performed. Preliminary results demonstrate the ability of this technique to provide hydrophobic character the marble (contact angles well above 90 ∘ ). Besides, the analysis of the treated surfaces in terms of roughness, color and gloss indicates that changes in the appearance of the surface are minimal when properly selecting the process parameters.
Challenges to Scaling Sustainable Private Equity Markets in Emerging Europe
Authors: Precup Mihai
Published: July 2019

The objective of this paper is to identify the main barriers to sustainable private equity market development in emerging European countries. The cross-country panel data analysis that was used in this paper will focus on the main determinants of the private equity investments over the period 2000–2013. We followed the methodology developed by Gompers and Lerner in order to estimate a panel data model with fixed and random effects. Starting from the existing literature, we analyzed variables that were confirmed by the previous studies and we also introduce new variables, such as the corruption index, uncertainty index, and regulation. The results of our study confirmed the existing hypothesis regarding the barriers to private equity development, such as the unemployment rate, the lack of exit mechanisms due to the low level of market capitalization, and the corruption.
Sustainable Agritourism in Thailand: Modeling Business Performance and Environmental Sustainability under Uncertainty
Authors: Tseng Ming-Lang , Chang Chia-Hao , Wu Kuo-Jui , Lin Chun-Wei Remen , Kalnaovkul Bhuripan , Tan Raymond R.
Published: July 2019

This study aims to identify the causal attributes of sustainable agritourism in Thailand. Agritourism is a systematic approach based on farm diversification for tourism purposes. Agritourism is usually assessed with qualitative information. However, the assessment of agritourism attributes involves considering the interrelationships among the attributes. Prior studies on sustainable agritourism do not identify and address interrelated attributes using qualitative information. This study applies the Delphi method to identify a set of valid attributes. Moreover, this study applies triangular fuzzy numbers to transform the qualitative information into comparable values and uses a decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory to identify the interrelationships among the attributes in the causal model. The results show that sustainable business performance and rural economic conditions are the key drivers of environmental sustainability. This result suggests that the attributes that may potentially stimulate sustainable agritourism are the development and implementation of an agritourism-specific plan, the development of a local business value chain, and government-led tourism promotion.