bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
β-Aminobutyric Acid Priming Acquisition and Defense Response of Mango Fruit to Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Infection Based on Quantitative Proteomics
Authors: Li Taotao , Fan Panhui , Yun Ze , Jiang Guoxiang , Zhang Zhengke , Jiang Yueming
Published: September 2019

β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) is a new environmentally friendly agent to induce disease resistance by priming of defense in plants. However, molecular mechanisms underlying BABA-induced priming defense are not fully understood. Here, comprehensive analysis of priming mechanism of BABA-induced resistance was investigated based on mango-Colletotrichum gloeosporioides interaction system using iTRAQ-based proteome approach. Results showed that BABA treatments effectively inhibited the expansion of anthracnose caused by C. gleosporioides in mango fruit. Proteomic results revealed that stronger response to pathogen in BABA-primed mango fruit after C. gleosporioides inoculation might be attributed to differentially accumulated proteins involved in secondary metabolism, defense signaling and response, transcriptional regulation, protein post-translational modification, etc. Additionally, we testified the involvement of non-specific lipid-transfer protein (nsLTP) in the priming acquisition at early priming stage and memory in BABA-primed mango fruit. Meanwhile, spring effect was found in the primed mango fruit, indicated by inhibition of defense-related proteins at priming phase but stronger activation of defense response when exposure to pathogen compared with non-primed fruit. As an energy-saving strategy, BABA-induced priming might also alter sugar metabolism to provide more backbone for secondary metabolites biosynthesis. In sum, this study provided new clues to elucidate the mechanism of BABA-induced priming defense in harvested fruit.
Influence of Humidity on NO2-Sensing and Selectivity of Spray-CVD Grown ZnO Thin Film above 400 °C
Authors: Lontio Fomekong Roussin , Saruhan Bilge
Published: September 2019

Thin films are being used more and more in gas sensing applications, relying on their high surface area to volume ratio. In this study, ZnO thin film was produced through a thermal aerosol spraying and chemical vapor deposition (spray-CVD) process at 500 °C using zinc acetate as a precursor. The phase identification and the morphologies of the film were investigated by XRD and SEM, respectively. Gas-sensing properties of the ZnO thin film were evaluated toward NO2, CO, and NO at a moderate temperature range (400–500 °C) in dry and humid air (relative humidity = 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% RH). The obtained results show good sensor signal for both NO2 (ΔR/R0 = 94%) and CO (92%) and poor sensor signal to NO (52%) at an optimum temperature of 450 °C in dry air. The response and recovery times decrease with the increase of NO2 concentration. In the presence of humidity (10% of RH), the sensor is more than twice as sensitive to NO2 (70%) as CO (29%), and accordingly, exhibits good selectivity toward NO2. As the amount of humidity increases from 2.5 to 10% RH, the selectivity ratio of ZnO thin film to NO2 against CO increases from 1 to 2.4. It was also observed that the response and the recovery rates decrease with the increase of relative humidity. The significant enhancement of the selectivity of ZnO thin film toward NO2 in the presence of humidity was attributed to the strong affinity of OH species with NO2.
A Novel Offset and Finite-Gain Compensated Switched-Capacitor Amplifier with Input Correlated Level Shifting
Authors: Chen Yan , Chen Yousheng , Guo Yan , Li Chunxia
Published: September 2019

A novel offset and finite-gain compensated differential switched-capacitor(SC) amplifier is presented. Incorporating the correlated double sampling (CDS) technique and input correlated level shifting (CLS) technique together, the DC offset and DC gain error of SC amplifier are further reduced by a factor of op-amp DC gain compared with the conventional offset and finite-gain compensated SC amplifier. The effectiveness of the new scheme has been analyzed and verified by extensive simulations. An SC amplifier with the proposed scheme is designed in 130 nm CMOS technology. Simulated results show that with an op-amp having a low DC gain of 30 dB and an input offset of 10 mV, the proposed SC amplifier achieves an output offset and DC-gain error of 154 µV and 0.05%, respectively, which are significantly improved compared with 1.155 mV and 0.42% achieved in the conventional SC amplifier.
Analytical Current-Voltage Model for Gate-All-Around Transistor with Poly-Crystalline Silicon Channel
Authors: Seon Yoongeun , Kim Jongmin , Kim Soowon , Jeon Jongwook
Published: September 2019

Poly-crystalline silicon channel transistors have been used as a display TFT for a long time and have recently been used in a 3D vertical NAND Flash which is a transistor with 2D plane NAND upright. In addition, multi-gate transistors such as FinFETs and a gate-all-around (GAA) structure has been used to suppress the short-channel effects for logic/analog and memory applications. Compact models for poly-crystalline silicon (poly-silicon) channel planar TFTs and single crystalline silicon channel GAA MOSFETs have been developed separately, however, there are few models consider these two physics at the same time. In this work, we derived new analytical current-voltage model for GAA transistor with poly-silicon channel by considering the cylindrical coordinates and the grain boundary effect. Based on the derived formula, the compact I-V model for various operating regions and threshold voltage was proposed for the first time. The proposed model was compared with the measured data and good agreements were observed.
A Novel Condition Monitoring Method of Wind Turbines Based on Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network
Authors: Qian Peng , Tian Xiange , Kanfoud Jamil , Lee Joash , Gan Tat-Hean
Published: September 2019

Effective intelligent condition monitoring, as an effective technique to enhance the reliability of wind turbines and implement cost-effective maintenance, has been the object of extensive research and development to improve defect detection from supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) data, relying on perspective signal processing and statistical algorithms. The development of sophisticated machine learning now allows improvements in defect detection from historic data. This paper proposes a novel condition monitoring method for wind turbines based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) algorithms. LSTM algorithms have the capability of capturing long-term dependencies hidden within a sequence of measurements, which can be exploited to increase the prediction accuracy. LSTM algorithms are therefore suitable for application in many diverse fields. The residual signal obtained by comparing the predicted values from a prediction model and the actual measurements from SCADA data can be used for condition monitoring. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated in the case study. The proposed method can increase the economic benefits and reliability of wind farms.
Pressures and Threats to Nature Related to Human Activities in European Urban and Suburban Forests
Authors: Referowska-Chodak Ewa
Published: September 2019

This review regards the pressures and threats linked with the human use of European urban and suburban forests. They can be divided into the following major categories: urban development, fragmentation, and isolation of forests; human pressures on soil and vegetation (e.g., changes in vegetation due to trampling, environmental and especially air pollution); human pressures on animals (e.g., wildlife losses due to collisions, frequent presence of dogs accompanying the visitors); and other threats and damages (e.g., littering and acts of vandalism). The directions of negative relations between people and forests shown in this review draw attention to the high complexity of the discussed issues. Awareness of this complexity (when planning and implementing forest management) can limit or counteract conflicts arising from the use of urban and suburban forests by people. This is of particular importance in the era of progressing urbanization and the evolution of human needs regarding the use of forests.
Social Network Services Management and Risk of Doocing. Comment on Kim, S.; Park, H.; Choi, M.J. “Negative Impact of Social Network Services Based on Stressor-Stress-Outcome: The Role of Experience of Privacy Violations. Future Internet 2019, 11, 137”
Authors: Fantinelli Stefania , Cortini Michela
Published: September 2019

In light of the recent work by Kim and colleagues about Social Network Service (SNS), examining the individual and SNS characteristics as predictors of SNS fatigue, we hypothesize to enlarge their model to the job context. SNS is a relevant issue in occupational life as employers use it to have a deeper knowledge of their employees and as a tool of corporate communication. Employees can use SNS as a social platform and as a way to express discontent. In this latter case, the organization can implement a disciplinary procedure toward employees, known as doocing. The perception of privacy violation is strictly related to the fear and awareness of doocing, which in turn can predict SNS fatigue as well. So, it could be worthwhile to extend Kim and colleagues’ model to the workplace with particular attention to the doocing phenomenon.
Determination of Phenolic Compounds, Procyanidins, and Antioxidant Activity in Processed Coffea arabica L. Leaves
Authors: Ngamsuk Samuchaya , Huang Tzou-Chi , Hsu Jue-Liang
Published: September 2019

The effects of dry processing and maturity on antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, total procyanidins, and identity of phenolic compounds in coffee leaves were evaluated. Fresh coffee leaves were tray-dried at 40 °C for 8 h before total phenolic content, total procyanidins, and antioxidant activity were analyzed. The drying process significantly (p < 0.05) improved the release of total phenolic content and total procyanidins compared with the fresh leaves. The results showed that the young leaves exposed to drying processes had the highest total phenolic content, total procyanidins, and DPPH radical scavenging activity. Therefore, the effect of different drying temperatures (30, 40, and 50 °C) in the young leaves were further analyzed. The results indicated that DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content, and total procyanidins were increasingly generated when exposed to an increase in drying temperatures, whereby the highest bioactivity was evident at 50 °C. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of the coffee leaf teas was significantly correlated with total phenolic content and total procyanidins. Identification of Coffea arabica L. bioactive compounds by LC-MS showed the presence of catechin or epicatechin, mangiferin or isomangiferin, procyanidin B, caffeoylquinic acids (CQA), caffeine, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, procyanidin C, rutin, and 3,4-diCQA. Coffea arabica L. leaf tea was confirmed to be a potential functional food rich in phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant activity.
In Vitro Production and Identification of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitory Peptides Derived from Distilled Spent Grain Prolamin Isolate
Authors: Wei Dong , Fan Wenlai , Xu Yan
Published: September 2019

Distilled spent grain (DSG), the biggest by-product of the Chinese liquor industry, is rich in protein (167.8 g/kg DSG dry weight (DW)). Accounting for 60% of the total protein, prolamins are isolated from dried DSG (DDSG). In this study, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides were screened from the prolamin hydrolysates of DDSG using two independent active-directed separations, ultrafiltration and reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) coupled with ACE inhibitory activity evaluation. Six novel ACE inhibitory peptides, AVQ, YPQ, NQL, AYLQ, VLPVLS, and VLPSLN, were successfully identified and quantified from the active RP-HPLC fractions. AVQ and YPQ exhibited the highest activity, having the concentration inducing 50% inhibition (IC50) values for ACE of 181.0 and 220.0 μM, respectively. It was observed that VLPVLS was the most abundant peptide (16.96 mg/g DW) in prolamins. The results indicated that prolamin hydrolysates from DDSG could be served as a source of ACE inhibitory peptides.
An Exercise Program Designed for Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for Use in School Physical Education: Feasibility and Utility
Authors: Taylor Alyx , Novo Dario , Foreman David
Published: September 2019

Moderate to high intensity exercise can improve cognitive function and behavior in children including those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, exercise with long periods of the same activity, or inactivity can fail to engage or maintain their attention. This study examined the effect of exercise sessions developed to engage children with ADHD. Twelve children (10–11 years), six with a diagnosis of ADHD and six with no diagnosis, undertook 40-min sessions of short-duration, mixed activities bi-weekly for eleven weeks. ADHD symptoms and exercise enjoyment were recorded before six and eleven weeks of intervention. Teacher-reported data showed ADHD symptoms were significantly decreased in the children with ADHD, with a moderate to large effect size. There were no changes in the control group. All children indicated equal enjoyment of the exercise sessions. Specially designed exercise sessions stimulate and maintain engagement by children with ADHD and may reduce ADHD symptom levels in the school environment. The method that supports inclusive practice in physical education (PE) was successfully transferred to the study school and led by the usual class teacher. Children evaluated the exercises as acceptable and enjoyable for those with and without ADHD. This inclusive exercise method might help children manage ADHD symptoms.
The Feasibility of Three Prediction Techniques of the Artificial Neural Network, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System, and Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization for Assessing the Safety Factor of Cohesive Slopes
Authors: Moayedi Hossein , Tien Bui Dieu , Gör Mesut , Pradhan Biswajeet , Jaafari Abolfazl
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a neuro particle-based optimization of the artificial neural network (ANN) is investigated for slope stability calculation. The results are also compared to another artificial intelligence technique of a conventional ANN and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) training solutions. The database used with 504 training datasets (e.g., a range of 80%) and testing dataset consists of 126 items (e.g., 20% of the whole dataset). Moreover, variables of the ANN method (for example, nodes number for each hidden layer) and the algorithm of PSO-like swarm size and inertia weight are improved by utilizing a total of 28 (i.e., for the PSO-ANN) trial and error approaches. The key properties were fed as input, which were utilized via the analysis of OptumG2 finite element modelling (FEM), containing undrained cohesion stability of the baseline soil (Cu), angle of the original slope (β), and setback distance ratio (b/B) where the target is selected factor of safety. The estimated data for datasets of ANN, ANFIS, and PSO-ANN models were examined based on three determined statistical indexes. Namely, root mean square error (RMSE) and the coefficient of determination (R2). After accomplishing the analysis of sensitivity, considering 72 trials and errors of the neurons number, the optimized architecture of 4 × 6 × 1 was determined to the structure of the ANN model. As an outcome, the employed methods presented excellent efficiency, but based on the ranking method, the PSO-ANN approach might have slightly better efficiency in comparison to the algorithms of ANN and ANFIS. According to statistics, for the proper structure of PSO-ANN, the indexes of R2 and RMSE values of 0.9996, and 0.0123, as well as 0.9994 and 0.0157, were calculated for the training and testing networks. Nevertheless, having the ANN model with six neurons for each hidden layer was formulized for further practical use. This study demonstrates the efficiency of the proposed neuro model of PSO-ANN in estimating the factor of safety compared to other conventional techniques.
Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)-Phenomena in Candida albicans and Their Impact on the Diagnosis of Antifungal Resistance
Authors: Binder Ulrike , Aigner Maria , Risslegger Brigitte , Hörtnagl Caroline , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Lackner Michaela
Published: September 2019

Antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) of clinical isolates is a tool in routine diagnostics to facilitate decision making on optimal antifungal therapy. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC)-phenomena (trailing and paradoxical effects (PXE)) observed in AFST complicate the unambiguous and reproducible determination of MICs and the impact of these phenomena on in vivo outcome are not fully understood. We aimed to link the MIC-phenomena with in vivo treatment response using the alternative infection model Galleria mellonella. We found that Candida albicans strains exhibiting PXE for caspofungin (CAS) had variable treatment outcomes in the Galleria model. In contrast, C. albicans strains showing trailing for voriconazole failed to respond in vivo. Caspofungin- and voriconazole-susceptible C. albicans strains responded to the respective antifungal therapy in vivo. In conclusion, MIC data and subsequent susceptibility interpretation of strains exhibiting PXE and/or trailing should be carried out with caution, as both effects are linked to drug adaptation and treatment response is uncertain to predict.
Coordination between High School and University Teachers in Spain to Reduce Mistakes in Calculus
Authors: Sánchez Lasheras Fernando , Fernández Gutiérrez Manuel José , Cereijo Viña Juan
Published: September 2019

In level tests carried out in recent years to evaluate the competence acquired by calculus students enrolled in the Computer Software Engineering degree at the University of Oviedo, it has been observed that a significant percentage of students make very similar conceptual errors. This article describes the research undertaken by a working group of teachers called BACUNIMAT, currently made up of two university professors and five high school professors. The name BACUNIMAT is the acronym in Spanish for the High School and University Teachers Working Group. The aim of this research group was to analyze the main deficiencies in mathematical knowledge that students possess upon arrival at university. The analysis was performed in order to propose solutions to alleviate these deficiencies. The research proposes how to focus mathematical teaching in secondary schools in order to better prepare students for university.
PAI-1 Level Differences in Malignant Plural Effusion, Parapneumonic Pleuritis, and Cardiac Hydrothorax
Authors: Zentina Dace , Stukena Inga , Krams Alvils , Lejnieks Aivars
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is a fibrinolytic system enzyme whose role in various fibrinolytic processes is currently unknown. In clinical manifestations of pleural liquids of diverse etiology, various levels of fibrinolytic activity can be observed—parapneumonic processes tend to loculate in fibrin septa, while malignant pleural effusion (MPE) does not. The purpose of this study was to determine possible differences in PAI-1 levels in pleural effusions of varied etiology. Material and Methods: PAI-1 level in pleural effusion and serum was determined in 144 patients with pleural effusions of various etiology (cardiac hydrothorax—42 patients (29.2%), MPE—67 patients (46.5%), parapneumonic pleuritis—27 (18.8%), tuberculous pleuritis—6 patients (4.1%), pancreatogenic pleuritis—1 patient (0.7%) and pulmonary artery thromboembolism with pleuritis—1 patient (0.7%)). Results: The median PAI-1 level (ng/mL) was the highest in the parapneumonic pleuritis group both in the effusion and the serum, with values of 291 (213–499) ng/mL and 204 (151–412) ng/mL, respectively, resulting in a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) from the cardiac hydrothorax and MPE groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference between PAI-1 levels in the pleural effusion and serum in the cardiac hydrothorax and MPE groups. Conclusion: The PAI-1 level in MPE and cardiac hydrothorax was statistically significantly lower than in parapneumonic pleuritis.
Effect of Alternating Magnetic Field on the Fatigue Behaviour of EN8 Steel and 2014-T6 Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Akram Sufyan , Babutskyi Anatolii , Chrysanthou Andreas , Montalvão Diogo , Pizurova Nada
Published: September 2019

The application of an alternating magnetic field (0.54 T) was observed to lead to an improvement in the fatigue endurance and an increase in Vickers microhardness and tensile strength of both EN8 steel and AA2014-T6 alloy. Fractography using scanning electron microscopy showed evidence of more ductile fracture features after treatment in contrast to untreated samples. The results of X-ray diffraction indicated formation of more compressive residual stresses following treatment; while examination by transmission electron microscopy showed evidence of fewer dislocations. In the case of the AA2014-T6 alloy; Guinier-Preston (GP) zones were also generated by the alternating magnetic field. However; the temperature increase during the treatment was too low to explain these observations. The results were attributed to the non-thermal effect of the alternating magnetic field treatment that led to depinning and movement of dislocations and secondary precipitation of copper.
Physicochemical Aspects and Sensory Profiles as Various Potential Factors for Comprehensive Quality Assessment of Nü-Er-Cha Produced from Rhamnus heterophylla Oliv.
Authors: Wang Le , Fan Shusheng , Wang Xiaoping , Wang Xiuhuan , Yan Xin , Shan Dongjie , Xiao Wuqing , Ma Jiamu , Wang Yanran , Li Xiao , Xu Xiao , She Gaimei
Published: September 2019

Nü-Er-Cha, produced from the leaves of Rhamnus heterophylla Oliv., is known as an herbal tea and used in the treatment of bleeding, irregular menstruation and dysentery. A method was developed for the quality assessment of herbal tea, Nü-Er-Cha, adopting physical parameters, chemical constituents and sensory profiles as various potential factors. Their inner relationship was mined by multivariate statistical analysis tools, and the three factors were integrated by a technique for order preference by a similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach to comprehensively analyze the characters of Nü-Er-Cha. Viscosity was also introduced to the physical parameter determination besides conductivity, pH and color. Seven common peaks of eight batches of Nü-Er-Cha were marked by a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint. They were further identified by HPLC mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) as hydroxybenzoic acids and flavanol glycosides. Fifty trained members participated in the sensory evaluation. Significant correlations between total sensory scores and conductivity, viscosity as well as pH were observed, a relatively innovative result for the quality assessment of herbal teas. The common peaks, belonging to hydroxybenzoic acids and flavanol glycosides, were mainly related to the color of infusions and leaves. The result of the TOPSIS analysis showed that S3 and S4 ranked as the top two in the comprehensive quality assessment. This may be related to rhamnetin triglycoside with a galactose/glucose and two rhamnoses, which had a higher peak response in S3 and S4 than that in the other samples. The present study may contribute to a better understanding of the relationship regarding physical properties, chemical composition and sensory profiles, and it may supply ideas for the comprehensive quality assessment of the herbal tea Nü-Er-Cha.
Sex Differences in Cancer Immunotherapy Efficacy, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Wang Shixiang , Cowley Li An , Liu Xue-Song
Published: September 2019

Sex differences in innate and adaptive immune responses are known, and women generally mount a stronger immune response than men. Cancer immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has revolutionized the treatment of cancer, and sex differences in cancer immunotherapy are just starting to be revealed. Here, we summarize recent research progress concerning sex differences in cancer immunotherapy efficacy. On their own, ICIs tend to be more effective in male cancer patients compared with female patients, while ICIs combined with chemotherapy tend to be more effective in female patients than male patients. Male tumors are usually more antigenic than female tumors, and this is reflected by their increased number of tumor mutations and cancer germline antigens. The biomarker tumor mutational burden (TMB), which reflects tumor antigenicity, is more effective at predicting immunotherapy response for female lung cancer patients than for male patients. In this review, we propose different therapeutic strategies for the different sexes: For male cancer patients, the immune environment should be enhanced, whereas for female cancer patients, tumor antigenicity should be enhanced.
Fluorine-Substituted Arylphosphine for an NHC-Ni(I) System, Air-Stable in a Solid State but Catalytically Active in Solution
Authors: Matsubara Kouki , Fujii Takahiro , Hosokawa Rion , Inatomi Takahiro , Yamada Yuji , Koga Yuji
Published: September 2019

Monovalent NHC-nickel complexes bearing triarylphosphine, in which fluorine is incorporated onto the aryl groups, have been synthesized. Tris(3,5-di(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl)phosphine efficiently gave a monovalent nickel bromide complex, whose structure was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis for the first time. In the solid state, the Ni(I) complex was less susceptible to oxidation in air than the triphenylphosphine complex, indicating greatly improved solid-state stability. In contrast, the Ni(I) complex in solution can easily liberate the phosphine, high catalytic activity toward the Kumada–Tamao–Corriu coupling of aryl bromides.
Epicatechin Provides Antioxidant Protection to Bovine Spermatozoa Subjected to Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Tvrda Eva , Straka Peter , Galbavy Drahomir , Ivanic Peter
Published: September 2019

Epicatechin (EPI) is a natural flavonoid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Furthermore, the molecule exhibits powerful reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and metal-chelating properties. In this study, we assessed the efficiency of EPI to reverse ROS-mediated alterations to the motility, viability, DNA integrity and oxidative profile of bovine spermatozoa. For the first experiment, spermatozoa were washed out of fresh semen and exposed to 12.5 μmol/L EPI, 25 μmol/L EPI, 50 μmol/L EPI and 100 μmol/L EPI in the presence of ferrous ascorbate (FeAA) during a 6 h in vitro culture. For the second experiment, the ejaculates were split into aliquots and cryopreserved with a commercial semen extender supplemented with 12.5 μmol/L EPI, 25 μmol/L EPI, 50 μmol/L EPI, 100 μmol/L EPI or containing no supplement. Sperm motility was assessed using the computer-aided sperm analysis and the cell viability was studied with the metabolic activity test. ROS production was quantified using luminometry, and DNA fragmentation was evaluated using the chromatin dispersion test. Cell lysates were prepared at the end of the culture in order to assess the concentration of protein carbonyls and malondialdehyde. Exposure to FeAA led to a significantly reduced sperm motility (p < 0.001), mitochondrial activity (p < 0.001), but increased the generation of ROS (p < 0.001), as well as oxidative damage to proteins (p < 0.001), DNA (p < 0.001) and lipids (p < 0.001). EPI supplementation, particularly at a concentration range of 50–100 μmol/L, resulted in higher preservation of the spermatozoa vitality (p < 0.001). Furthermore, 50–100 μmol/L EPI were significantly effective in the prevention of oxidative damage to sperm proteins (p < 0.001), lipids (p < 0.001) and DNA (p < 0.01 in relation to 50 μmol/L EPI; p < 0.001 with respect to 100 μmol/L EPI). In the case of the cryopreserved spermatozoa, the administration of 50–100 μmol/L EPI resulted in higher sperm motility (p < 0.001) and mitochondrial activity (p < 0.001). ROS production, the number of protein carbonyls, lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative DNA damage were found to be significantly decreased particularly in samples cryopreserved in the presence of 100 μmol/L EPI (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that EPI could behave as an effective antioxidant which may prevent oxidative insults to spermatozoa, and thus, preserve their vitality and functionality. Nevertheless, its potential to achieve higher fertilization rates in reproductive technologies needs to be validated.
Synthesis with Immobilized Lipases and Downstream Processing of Ascorbyl Palmitate
Authors: Tufiño Carolina , Bernal Claudia , Ottone Carminna , Romero Oscar , Illanes Andrés , Wilson Lorena
Published: September 2019

Ascorbyl palmitate is a fatty acid ester endowed with antioxidant properties, used as a food additive and cosmetic ingredient, which is presently produced by chemical synthesis. Ascorbyl palmitate was synthesized from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid with a Pseudomonas stutzeri lipase immobilized on octyl silica, and also with the commercial immobilized lipase Novozym 435. The latter was selected for optimizing the reaction conditions because of its high reactivity and stability in the solvent 2-methyl-2-butanol used as reaction medium. The reaction of the synthesis was studied considering temperature and molar ratio of substrates as variables and synthesis yield as response parameter. The highest yield in the synthesis of ascorbyl palmitate was 81%, obtained at 55 °C and an ascorbic acid to palmitic acid molar ratio of 1:8, both variables having a strong effect on yield. The synthesized ascorbyl palmitate was purified to 94.4%, with a purification yield of 84.2%. The use of generally recognized as safe (GRAS) certified solvents with a polarity suitable for the solubilization of the compounds made the process a viable alternative for the synthesis and downstream processing of ascorbyl palmitate.
Synthesis, Structural Confirmation, and Biosynthesis of 22-OH-PD1n-3 DPA
Authors: Nesman Jannicke Irina , Gangestad Primdahl Karoline , Tungen Jørn Eivind , Palmas Fransesco , Dalli Jesmond , Hansen Trond Vidar
Published: September 2019

PD1n-3 DPA belongs to the protectin family of specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators. The protectins are endogenously formed mediators that display potent anti-inflammatory properties and pro-resolving bioactivities and have attracted interest in drug discovery. However, few studies have been reported of the secondary metabolism of the protectins. To investigate the metabolic formation of the putative C22 mono-hydroxylated product, coined 22-OH-PD1n-3 DPA, a stereoselective synthesis was performed. LC/MS-MS data of synthetic 22-OH-PD1n-3 DPA matched the data for the biosynthetic formed product. Cellular studies revealed that 22-OH-PD1n-3 DPA is formed from n-3 docosapentaenoic acid in human serum, and we confirmed that 22-OH-PD1n-3 DPA is a secondary metabolite produced by ω-oxidation of PD1n-3 DPA in human neutrophils and in human monocytes. The results reported are of interest for enabling future structure–activity relationship studies and provide useful molecular insight of the metabolism of the protectin class of specialized pro-resolving mediators.
An Enhanced Self-Care Protocol for People Affected by Moderate to Severe Lymphedema
Authors: Douglass Janet , Mableson Hayley E. , Martindale Sarah , Kelly-Hope Louise A.
Published: September 2019

Lymphedema is a chronic skin disease that has many causes and leads to significant disfigurement and disability worldwide. Recommendations for lymphedema self-care vary by setting and the World Health Organization guidelines for people affected by lymphatic filariasis- and podoconiosis-related lymphedema are centered around a basic daily hygiene regimen. Research on cancer-related lymphedema in developed country settings suggests that deep-breathing exercises and self-massage can improve lymphedema status, but these exercises are not routinely taught to people affected by lymphedema in developing country settings. To determine if the activities proven in cancer-related lymphedema can improve outcomes for people affected by lymphatic filariasis- or podoconiosis-related lymphedema, an enhanced self-care protocol for lower limb lymphedema was developed and trialed in Nilphamari District in Bangladesh and Simada Woreda in Ethiopia. Enhanced self-care activities were chosen on the basis that they would not add financial burden to patients or their families and included recommendations to perform deep-breathing exercises and self-massage, drink clean water, and eat fresh fruits and vegetables. The enhanced-care protocol was developed in collaboration with implementing partners in both countries and may be applicable in other populations affected by lower-limb lymphedema. Trial methods and results will be submitted for peer reviewed publication. Current recommendations for lymphedema self-care may be less effective for people with more advanced disease and new or cross-cutting methods are needed to improve outcomes for these populations.
Synthesis, Characterization and Dye Removal Behavior of Core–Shell–Shell Fe3O4/Ag/Polyoxometalates Ternary Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhan Shixia , Li Chunyan , Tian Heyun , Ma Chenguang , Liu Hongling , Luo Jie , Li Mingxue
Published: September 2019

The ternary nanocomposites Fe3O4/Ag/polyoxometalates (Fe3O4/Ag/POMs) with core–shell–core nanostructure were synthesized by coating [Cu(C6H6N2O)2(H2O)]H2[Cu(C6H6N2O)2(P2Mo5O23)]·4H2O polyoxometalates on the surface of Fe3O4/Ag (core–shell) nanoparticles. The transmission electron microscopy/high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analyses show that the Fe3O4/Ag/POMs ternary nanocomposites reveal a core–shell–core nanostructure, good dispersibility, and high crystallinity. The vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and physical property measurement system (PPMS) demonstrated the good magnetic properties and superparamagnetic behavior of the nanocomposites at 300 K. The UV–vis spectroscopy displayed the broadband absorption of the Fe3O4/Ag/POMs with the maximum surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanostructure around 420 nm. The dye removal capacity of Fe3O4/Ag/POMs was investigated using methylene blue (MB) as a probe. Through adsorption and photocatalysis, the nanocomposites could quickly remove MB with a removal efficiency of 98.7% under the irradiation of visible light at room temperature. The removal efficiency was still as high as 97.5% even after six runs by magnetic separation of photocatalytic adsorbents after processing, indicating the reusability and high stability of the nanocomposites. These Fe3O4/Ag/POMs photocatalytic adsorbents with magnetic properties will hopefully become a functional material for wastewater treatment in the future.
Insights into the HIV Latency and the Role of Cytokines
Authors: Hokello Joseph , Sharma Adhikarimayum Lakhikumar , Dimri Manjari , Tyagi Mudit
Published: September 2019

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) has the ability to infect latently at the level of individual CD4+ cells. Latent HIV-1 proviruses are transcriptionally silent and immunologically inert, but are still capable of reactivating productive lytic infection following cellular activation. These latent viruses are the main obstacle in the eradication of HIV-1, because current HIV-1 treatment regimens are ineffective against them. Normal immunological response against an antigen activates CD4+ naïve T cells. The activated CD4+ naïve T cells undergo cell cycle, resulting in further transformation and profound proliferation to form effector CD4+ T-cells. Notably, in HIV-1 infected individuals, some of the effector CD4+ T cells get infected with HIV-1. Upon fulfillment of their effector functions, almost all activated CD4+ T cells are committed to apoptosis or programmed cell death, but a miniscule fraction revert to quiescence and become resting memory CD4+ T cells to mediate a rapid immunological response against the same antigen in the future. However, due to the quiescent nature of the resting memory T cells, the integrated HIV-1 becomes transcriptionally silent and acquires a latent phenotype. Following re-exposure to the same antigen, memory cells and integrated HIV-1 are stimulated. The reactivated latent HIV provirus subsequently proceeds through its life cycle and eventually leads to the production of new viral progeny. Recently, many strategies against HIV-1 latency have been developed and some of them have even matured to the clinical level, but none can yet effectively eliminate the latent HIV reservoir, which remains a barrier to HIV-1 cure. Therefore, alternative strategies to eradicate latent HIV need to be considered. This review provides vital knowledge on HIV latency and on strategies to supplement highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) with cytokine-mediated therapeutics for dislodging the latent HIV reservoirs in order to open up new avenues for curing HIV.
Improving Recruitment and Retention of Pharmacists in a Practice-Based Research Network
Authors: Rotzenberg Katherine , Chui Michelle A.
Published: September 2019

Pharmacy practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are relatively new compared to their primary care forebears, representing a unique set of research challenges. Recruitment and retention of network members are essential to maintaining the integrity of the network and achieving its research goals. Many studies have evaluated recruitment and retention of practitioners to individual studies, while far fewer have reported on recruitment and retention to the network itself. This literature review summarizes current practices for PBRN member recruitment and retention from a pharmacy perspective.
Intra-Sample Heterogeneity of Potato Starch Reveals Fluctuation of Starch-Binding Proteins According to Granule Morphology
Authors: Helle Stanislas , Bray Fabrice , Putaux Jean-Luc , Verbeke Jérémy , Flament Stéphanie , Rolando Christian , D’Hulst Christophe , Szydlowski Nicolas
Published: September 2019

Starch granule morphology is highly variable depending on the botanical origin. Moreover, all investigated plant species display intra-tissular variability of granule size. In potato tubers, the size distribution of starch granules follows a unimodal pattern with diameters ranging from 5 to 100 µm. Several evidences indicate that granule morphology in plants is related to the complex starch metabolic pathway. However, the intra-sample variability of starch-binding metabolic proteins remains unknown. Here, we report on the molecular characterization of size-fractionated potato starch granules with average diameters of 14.2 ± 3.7 µm, 24.5 ± 6.5 µm, 47.7 ± 12.8 µm, and 61.8 ± 17.4 µm. In addition to changes in the phosphate contents as well as small differences in the amylopectin structure, we found that the starch-binding protein stoichiometry varies significantly according to granule size. Label-free quantitative proteomics of each granule fraction revealed that individual proteins can be grouped according to four distinct abundance patterns. This study corroborates that the starch proteome may influence starch granule growth and architecture and opens up new perspectives in understanding the dynamics of starch biosynthesis.
Management of Glyphosate-Resistant Weeds in Mexican Citrus Groves: Chemical Alternatives and Economic Viability
Authors: Alcántara-de la Cruz Ricardo , Domínguez-Martínez Pablo Alfredo , da Silveira Hellen Martins , Cruz-Hipólito Hugo Enrique , Palma-Bautista Candelario , Vázquez-García José Guadalupe , Domínguez-Valenzuela José Alfredo , De Prado Rafael
Published: September 2019

Glyphosate is a cheap herbicide that has been used to control a wide range of weeds (4–6 times/year) in citrus groves of the Gulf of Mexico; however, its excessive use has selected for glyphosate-resistant weeds. We evaluated the efficacy and economic viability of 13 herbicide treatments (glyphosate combined with PRE- and/or POST-emergence herbicides and other alternative treatments), applied in tank-mixture or sequence, to control glyphosate-resistant weeds in two Persian lime groves (referred to as SM-I and SM-II) of the municipality of Acateno, Puebla, during two years (2014 and 2015). The SM-I and SM-II fields had 243 and 346 weeds/m2, respectively, composed mainly of Bidens pilosa and Leptochloa virgata. Echinochloa colona was also frequent in SM-II. The glyphosate alone treatments (1080, 1440, or 1800 g ae ha−1) presented control levels of the total weed population ranging from 64% to 85% at 15, 30, and 45 d after treatment (DAT) in both fields. Mixtures of glyphosate with grass herbicides such as fluazifop-p-butyl, sethoxydim, and clethodim efficiently controlled E. colona and L. virgata, but favored the regrowth of B. pilosa. The sequential applications of glyphosate + (bromacil + diuron) and glufosinate + oxyfluorfen controlled more than 85% the total weed community for more than 75 days. However, these treatments were between 360% and 390% more expensive (1.79 and 1.89 $/day ha−1 of satisfactory weed control, respectively), compared to the representative treatment (glyphosate 1080 g ae ha−1 = USD $29.0 ha−1). In practical and economic terms, glufosinate alone was the best treatment controlling glyphosate resistant weeds maintaining control levels >80% for at least 60 DAT ($1.35/day ha−1). The rest of the treatments, applied in tank-mix or in sequence with glyphosate, had similar or lower control levels (~70%) than glyphosate at 1080 g ae ha−1. The adoption of glufosiante alone, glufosinate + oxyfluorfen or glyphosate + (bromacil + diuron) must consider the cost of satisfactory weed control per day, the period of weed control, as well as other factors associated with production costs to obtain an integrated weed management in the short and long term.
Global Supervisory Structure for Decentralized Systems of Flexible Manufacturing Systems Using Petri Nets
Authors: Bashir Muhammad , Hong Liang
Published: September 2019

Decentralized supervisory structure has drawn much attention in recent years to address the computational complexity in designing supervisory structures for large Petri net model. Many studies are reported in the paradigm of automata while few can be found in the Petri net paradigm. The decentralized supervisory structure can address the computational complexity, but it adds the structural complexity of supervisory structure. This paper proposed a new method of designing a global controller for decentralized systems of a large Petri net model for flexible manufacturing systems. The proposed method can both reduce the computational complexity by decomposition of large Petri net models into several subnets and structural complexity by designing a global supervisory structure that can greatly reduce the cost at the implementation stage. Two efficient algorithms are developed in the proposed method. Algorithm 1 is used to compute decentralized working zones from the given Petri net model for flexible manufacturing systems. Algorithm 2 is used to compute the global controller that enforces the liveness to the decentralized working zones. The ring assembling method is used to reconnect and controlled the working zones via a global controller. The proposed method can be applied to large Petri nets size and, in general, it has less computational and structural complexity. Experimental examples are presented to explore the applicability of the proposed method.
Railway Vehicle Wheel Restoration by Submerged Arc Welding and Its Characterization
Authors: Coo Byeong-Choo , Lee Young-Jin
Published: September 2019

When a railway vehicle moves on a curved rail, sliding contact occurs between the rail head side and wheel flange, which wears the wheel flange down. The thinned flange needs to be restored above the required minimum thickness for structural safety. In this study, a new process and welding wire for restoring worn-out railway wheels by submerged arc welding was developed. To characterize the properties of the restored wheel, dilatometric analysis of phase transformation, SEM/EDX analyses, hardness measurement, and residual stress measurement using the X-ray diffraction method were performed. Finally, wear tests with full-size wheel/rail specimens were carried out. It was confirmed that the weld metal was composed of bainitic microstructures as intended, and welding defects were not observed. The wear amount of the restored wheel was greater than that of the base material, but it was less than half of the wear depth of the weld-repaired wheel with ferritic–pearlitic microstructures. The developed process seems applicable to industry.
Validation of a Size-Exclusion Chromatography Method for Bevacizumab Quantitation in Pharmaceutical Preparations: Application in a Biosimilar Study
Authors: Oliva Alexis , Llabrés Matías
Published: September 2019

In May 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed a quality range (QR) method for the comparative analytical assessment in biosimilar studies. In this process, several reference product lots are necessary, selected from a wide period of manufacturing dates with different shelf lives, to calculate the total variability expressed as the standard deviation of reference product lots. This one depends on the between-lots variation and analytic method uncertainty (i.e., within-lots variation). During this time, the analytical method must be in control and stable but with an appropriate accuracy and precision. In such a situation, various control charts were used to fix the method requirements and detect small changes in the process. The results indicate that the method is indeed in control and stable, but does not meet the requirements of the Analytical Target Profile (ATP) approach, independently of the established uncertainty range. However, it does satisfy the traditional approach for an uncertainty range of ±2%. The application of this new QR approach shows that the selection of reference lots has an impact on the estimated standard deviation of the reference product, and consequently on the QR, penalizing good test products. The contribution of the analytic method error is known and in-control through the validation process. However, the between-lots variation requires a higher attention and control by the manufacturer. All these aspects were analyzed, using simulation and real-data from various bevacizumab lots.
An Experimental Brackish Aquaponic System Using Juvenile Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata) and Rock Samphire (Crithmum maritimum)
Authors: Vlahos Nikolaos , Levizou Efi , Stathopoulou Paraskevi , Berillis Panagiotis , Antonopoulou Efthimia , Bekiari Vlasoula , Krigas Nikos , Kormas Konstantinos , Mente Eleni
Published: September 2019

Brackish aquaponics using Mediterranean fish and plants provides an alternative opportunity for a combined production of high-quality food products with high commercial and nutritional value. This is the first study that investigates the effect of two different salinities (8 and 20 ppt) on growth and survival of Sparus aurata and Crithmum maritimum along with the cellular stress pathways using the activation of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) protein family members and the water bacterial abundance. In total, 156 fish were used (average initial weight of 2.55 g, length of 5.57 cm) and 36 plants (average initial height of 8.23 cm) in floating racks above the 135 L fish tanks. Survival rate for both organisms was 100%. C. crithmum grew better at 8 ppt (t-test, p < 0.05). The growth rate of S. aurata was similar for both treatments (p > 0.05). HSPs and MAPK were differentially expressed, showing tissue-specific responses. The average bacterial abundance at the end of the experiment was higher (p < 0.05) in the 20 ppt (18.6 ± 0.91 cells × 105/mL) compared to the 8 ppt (6.8 ± 1.9 cells × 105/mL). The results suggest that the combined culture of euryhaline fish and halophytes provides good quality products in brackish aquaponics systems.