bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Compass for Slovak Enterprises: Modeling Economic Stability of Agricultural Entities
Authors: Valaskova Katarina , Durana Pavol , Adamko Peter , Jaros Jaroslav
Published: May 2020

The risk of corporate financial distress negatively affects the operation of the enterprise itself and can change the financial performance of all other partners that come into close or wider contact. To identify these risks, business entities use early warning systems, prediction models, which help identify the level of corporate financial health. Despite the fact that the relevant financial analyses and financial health predictions are crucial to mitigate or eliminate the potential risks of bankruptcy, the modeling of financial health in emerging countries is mostly based on models which were developed in different economic sectors and countries. However, several prediction models have been introduced in emerging countries (also in Slovakia) in the last few years. Thus, the main purpose of the paper is to verify the predictive ability of the bankruptcy models formed in conditions of the Slovak economy in the sector of agriculture. To compare their predictive accuracy the confusion matrix (cross tables) and the receiver operating characteristic curve are used, which allow more detailed analysis than the mere proportion of correct classifications (predictive accuracy). The results indicate that the models developed in the specific economic sector highly outperform the prediction ability of other models either developed in the same country or abroad, usage of which is then questionable considering the issue of prediction accuracy. The research findings confirm that the highest predictive ability of the bankruptcy prediction models is achieved provided that they are used in the same economic conditions and industrial sector in which they were primarily developed.
Properties of Entropy-Based Topological Measures of Fullerenes
Authors: Ghorbani Modjtaba , Dehmer Matthias , Emmert-Streib Frank
Published: May 2020

A fullerene is a cubic three-connected graph whose faces are entirely composed of pentagons and hexagons. Entropy applied to graphs is one of the significant approaches to measuring the complexity of relational structures. Recently, the research on complex networks has received great attention, because many complex systems can be modelled as networks consisting of components as well as relations among these components. Information—theoretic measures have been used to analyze chemical structures possessing bond types and hetero-atoms. In the present article, we reviewed various entropy-based measures on fullerene graphs. In particular, we surveyed results on the topological information content of a graph, namely the orbit-entropy Ia(G), the symmetry index, a degree-based entropy measure Iλ(G), the eccentric-entropy Ifσ(G) and the Hosoya entropy H(G).
Robust Stability of Complex-Valued Stochastic Neural Networks with Time-Varying Delays and Parameter Uncertainties
Authors: Chanthorn Pharunyou , Rajchakit Grienggrai , Thipcha Jenjira , Emharuethai Chanikan , Sriraman Ramalingam , Lim Chee Peng , Ramachandran Raja
Published: May 2020

In practical applications, stochastic effects are normally viewed as the major sources that lead to the system’s unwilling behaviours when modelling real neural systems. As such, the research on network models with stochastic effects is significant. In view of this, in this paper, we analyse the issue of robust stability for a class of uncertain complex-valued stochastic neural networks (UCVSNNs) with time-varying delays. Based on the real-imaginary separate-type activation function, the original UCVSNN model is analysed using an equivalent representation consisting of two real-valued neural networks. By constructing the proper Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and applying Jensen’s inequality, a number of sufficient conditions can be derived by utilizing It o ^ ’s formula, the homeomorphism principle, the linear matrix inequality, and other analytic techniques. As a result, new sufficient conditions to ensure robust, globally asymptotic stability in the mean square for the considered UCVSNN models are derived. Numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the merit of the obtained results.
Multivariate Scale-Mixed Stable Distributions and Related Limit Theorems
Authors: Khokhlov Yury , Korolev Victor , Zeifman Alexander
Published: May 2020

In the paper, multivariate probability distributions are considered that are representable as scale mixtures of multivariate stable distributions. Multivariate analogs of the Mittag–Leffler distribution are introduced. Some properties of these distributions are discussed. The main focus is on the representations of the corresponding random vectors as products of independent random variables and vectors. In these products, relations are traced of the distributions of the involved terms with popular probability distributions. As examples of distributions of the class of scale mixtures of multivariate stable distributions, multivariate generalized Linnik distributions and multivariate generalized Mittag–Leffler distributions are considered in detail. Their relations with multivariate ‘ordinary’ Linnik distributions, multivariate normal, stable and Laplace laws as well as with univariate Mittag–Leffler and generalized Mittag–Leffler distributions are discussed. Limit theorems are proved presenting necessary and sufficient conditions for the convergence of the distributions of random sequences with independent random indices (including sums of a random number of random vectors and multivariate statistics constructed from samples with random sizes) to scale mixtures of multivariate elliptically contoured stable distributions. The property of scale-mixed multivariate elliptically contoured stable distributions to be both scale mixtures of a non-trivial multivariate stable distribution and a normal scale mixture is used to obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for the convergence of the distributions of random sums of random vectors with covariance matrices to the multivariate generalized Linnik distribution.
Sarcoma as Second Cancer in a Childhood Cancer Survivor: Case Report, Large Population Analysis and Literature Review
Authors: Nguyen Thinh H. , Makena Monish Ram , Yavvari Siddhartha , Kaur Maninder , Pham Teresia , Urias Eduardo , Panapitiya Narendra , Al-Rahawan Mohamad M.
Published: May 2020

The majority of pediatric patients are cured of their primary cancer with current advanced developments in pediatric cancer therapy. However, survivors often experience long-term complications from therapies for primary cancer. The delayed mortality rate has been decreasing with the effort to reduce the therapeutic exposure of patients with pediatric cancers. Our study investigates the incidence of sarcoma as second cancer in pediatric cancer survivors. We present a 9-year-old male who survived embryonal hepatoblastoma diagnosed at 22 months of age. At 4.5 years of age, he presented with a non-metastatic primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of the left submandibular area. He has no evidence of recurrence of either cancer for 51 months after finishing all chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to identify the current rate of second sarcomas in pediatric cancer survivors. Our literature review and large population analysis emphasize the impact of sarcoma as a second malignancy and provide help to physicians caring for pediatric cancer survivors.
Baikalomycins A-C, New Aquayamycin-Type Angucyclines Isolated from Lake Baikal Derived Streptomyces sp. IB201691-2A
Authors: Voitsekhovskaia Irina , Paulus Constanze , Dahlem Charlotte , Rebets Yuriy , Nadmid Suvd , Zapp Josef , Axenov-Gribanov Denis , Rückert Christian , Timofeyev Maxim , Kalinowski Jörn , Kiemer Alexandra K. , Luzhetskyy Andriy
Published: May 2020

Natural products produced by bacteria found in unusual and poorly studied ecosystems, such as Lake Baikal, represent a promising source of new valuable drug leads. Here we report the isolation of a new Streptomyces sp. strain IB201691-2A from the Lake Baikal endemic mollusk Benedictia baicalensis. In the course of an activity guided screening three new angucyclines, named baikalomycins A–C, were isolated and characterized, highlighting the potential of poorly investigated ecological niches. Besides that, the strain was found to accumulate large quantities of rabelomycin and 5-hydroxy-rabelomycin, known shunt products in angucyclines biosynthesis. Baikalomycins A–C demonstrated varying degrees of anticancer activity. Rabelomycin and 5-hydroxy-rabelomycin further demonstrated antiproliferative activities. The structure elucidation showed that baikalomycin A is a modified aquayamycin with β-d-amicetose and two additional hydroxyl groups at unusual positions (6a and 12a) of aglycone. Baikalomycins B and C have alternating second sugars attached, α-l-amicetose and α-l-aculose, respectively. The gene cluster for baikalomycins biosynthesis was identified by genome mining, cloned using a transformation-associated recombination technique and successfully expressed in S. albus J1074. It contains a typical set of genes responsible for an angucycline core assembly, all necessary genes for the deoxy sugars biosynthesis, and three genes coding for the glycosyltransferase enzymes. Heterologous expression and deletion experiments allowed to assign the function of glycosyltransferases involved in the decoration of baikalomycins aglycone.
MG-MLST: Characterizing the Microbiome at the Strain Level in Metagenomic Data
Authors: Bangayan Nathanael J. , Shi Baochen , Trinh Jerry , Barnard Emma , Kasimatis Gabriela , Curd Emily , Li Huiying
Published: May 2020

The microbiome plays an important role in human physiology. The composition of the human microbiome has been described at the phylum, class, genus, and species levels, however, it is largely unknown at the strain level. The importance of strain-level differences in microbial communities has been increasingly recognized in understanding disease associations. Current methods for identifying strain populations often require deep metagenomic sequencing and a comprehensive set of reference genomes. In this study, we developed a method, metagenomic multi-locus sequence typing (MG-MLST), to determine strain-level composition in a microbial community by combining high-throughput sequencing with multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). We used a commensal bacterium, Propionibacterium acnes, as an example to test the ability of MG-MLST in identifying the strain composition. Using simulated communities, MG-MLST accurately predicted the strain populations in all samples. We further validated the method using MLST gene amplicon libraries and metagenomic shotgun sequencing data of clinical skin samples. MG-MLST yielded consistent results of the strain composition to those obtained from nearly full-length 16S rRNA clone libraries and metagenomic shotgun sequencing analysis. When comparing strain-level differences between acne and healthy skin microbiomes, we demonstrated that strains of RT2/6 were highly associated with healthy skin, consistent with previous findings. In summary, MG-MLST provides a quantitative analysis of the strain populations in the microbiome with diversity and richness. It can be applied to microbiome studies to reveal strain-level differences between groups, which are critical in many microorganism-related diseases.
Autochthonous Starter Cultures Are Able to Reduce Biogenic Amines in a Traditional Portuguese Smoked Fermented Sausage
Authors: Dias Igor , Laranjo Marta , Potes Maria Eduarda , Agulheiro-Santos Ana Cristina , Ricardo-Rodrigues Sara , Fialho Ana Rita , Véstia Joana , Fraqueza Maria João , Oliveira Margarida , Elias Miguel
Published: May 2020

Traditional smoked fermented sausages are highly appreciated in Portugal and are mostly manufactured according to traditional procedures. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of autochthonous starter cultures on the safety and quality of a smoked fermented sausage, Painho da Beira Baixa (PBB), preserving its sensory quality. Physicochemical parameters, namely pH and water activity (aW), microbiological parameters, biogenic amines, colour, texture profile and sensory attributes were assessed. Different starters were selected based on our previous work. Staphylococcus equorum S2M7, Staphylococcus xylosus CECT7057, Lactobacillus sakei CV3C2, Lactobacillus sakei CECT7056 and a yeast strain (2RB4) were co-inoculated in meat batters at defined concentrations. Starters had a significant effect on the reduction of pH. Enterobacteria and Listeria monocytogenes were not detected in inoculated end-product sausages. Moreover, sausages inoculated with S. equorum S2M7/L. sakei CV3C2/yeast 2RB4 showed a significant reduction in the total content of biogenic amines. No significant differences between treatments were observed for colour and texture parameters, except for adhesiveness. The studied starters did not compromise the sensory characteristics of PBB. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study on the quality and safety of this type of smoked fermented sausage from the central region of Portugal.
Electrochemical Study of Galena Weathering in NaCl Solution: Kinetics and Environmental Implications
Authors: Zha Lei , Li Heping , Wang Ning
Published: May 2020

Exploitation of seafloor massive sulfide deposits exposes galena and other metal sulfides to weathering factors. Galena weathering process leads to release of toxic metals into the water column. Although galena weathering has an impact on the environment, the mechanisms and kinetics of galena oxidation under seawater conditions are rarely studied. In this work, several electrochemical experimental methods were combined to examine the kinetics of galena weathering in NaCl solution to simulate the effects of Cl− in seawater, and the effects of sodium chloride concentration and pH on it were studied. The results show that galena weathering can lead to mineral surface passivation. More chloride ions can accelerate the dissolution of galena. Higher acidity and alkalinity promote the dissolution of galena in NaCl solution. Galena will release Pb2+ at a rate of 2.849 × 10−2 g m−2 d−1 in the near neutral NaCl mediums, and the amount increases to 5.705 × 10−2 g m−2 d−1 at pH 1.0 and even up to 7.569 × 10−1 g m−2 d−1 at pH 13.0. The results of polarization curves are consistent with the impedance spectrum data. Based on the dissolution kinetics of galena, the environmental significance of galena weathering is proposed.
Dithieno[1,4]thiazines and Bis[1]benzothieno[1,4]thiazines—Organometallic Synthesis and Functionalization of Electron Density Enriched Congeners of Phenothiazine
Authors: May Lars , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: May 2020

This mini-review summarizes the syntheses and functionalizations of dithieno[1,4]thiazines and bis[1]benzothieno[1,4]thiazines, both electron density-enriched congeners of phenothiazines with remarkable electronic properties. Diversity-oriented, straightforward, and efficient syntheses, including versatile one-pot processes, have been developed for the anellated 1,4-thiazines as well as various functionalization for the expansion of the π-systems. Thereby, syntheses of different regioisomers depending on the (benzo)thieno-thiazine anellation are discussed, which exert a deep impact on the electronic properties. The tunable photophysical and electrochemical properties of dithieno[1,4]thiazines and bis[1]benzothieno[1,4]thiazines outscore phenothiazines on many points and promise an enormous potential in molecular electronics and applications beyond.
Nootkatone Inhibits Acute and Chronic Inflammatory Responses in Mice
Authors: Bezerra Rodrigues Dantas Lindaiane , Silva Ana Letícia Moreira , da Silva Júnior Cícero Pedro , Alcântara Isabel Sousa , Correia de Oliveira Maria Rayane , Oliveira Brito Pereira Bezerra Martins Anita , Ribeiro-Filho Jaime , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , Rocha Santos Passos Fabíolla , Quintans-Junior Lucindo José , Alencar de Menezes Irwin Rose , Pezzani Raffaele , Vitalini Sara
Published: May 2020

Nootkatone (NTK) is a sesquiterpenoid found in essential oils of many species of Citrus (Rutaceae). Considering previous reports demonstrating that NTK inhibited inflammatory signaling pathways, this study aimed to investigate the effects of this compound in mice models of acute and chronic inflammation. Murine models of paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran, histamine, and arachidonic acid, as well as carrageenan-induced peritonitis and pleurisy, were used to evaluate the effects of NTK on acute inflammation. A murine model of granuloma induced by cotton pellets was used to access the impact of NTK treatment on chronic inflammation. In the acute inflammation models, NTK demonstrated antiedematogenic effects and inhibited leukocyte recruitment, which was associated with decreased vascular permeability, inhibition of myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin (IL)1-β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α production. In silico analysis suggest that NTZ anti-inflammatory effects may also occur due to inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 activity and antagonism of the histamine receptor type 1 (H1). These mechanisms might have contributed to the reduction of granuloma weight and protein concentration in the homogenates, observed in the chronic inflammation model. In conclusion, NTK exerted anti-inflammatory effects that are associated with inhibition of IL1-β and TNF-α production, possibly due to inhibition of COX-2 activity and antagonism of the H1 receptor. However, further studies are required to characterize the effects of this compound on chronic inflammation.
Recent Advances in the Extraction of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons from Environmental Samples
Authors: Manousi Natalia , Zachariadis George A.
Published: May 2020

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) comprise a group of chemical compounds consisting of two or more fused benzene rings. PAHs exhibit hydrophobicity and low water solubility, while some of their members are toxic substances resistant to degradation. Due to their low levels in environmental matrices, a preconcentration step is usually required for their determination. Nowadays, there is a wide variety of sample preparation techniques, including micro-extraction techniques (e.g., solid-phase microextraction and liquid phase microextraction) and miniaturized extraction techniques (e.g., dispersive solid-phase extraction, magnetic solid-phase extraction, stir bar sorptive extraction, fabric phase sorptive extraction etc.). Compared to the conventional sample preparation techniques, these novel techniques show some benefits, including reduced organic solvent consumption, while they are time and cost efficient. A plethora of adsorbents, such as metal-organic frameworks, carbon-based materials and molecularly imprinted polymers, have been successfully coupled with a wide variety of extraction techniques. This review focuses on the recent advances in the extraction techniques of PAHs from environmental matrices, utilizing novel sample preparation approaches and adsorbents.
Piperine Ameliorates Trimellitic Anhydride-Induced Atopic Dermatitis-Like Symptoms by Suppressing Th2-Mediated Immune Responses via Inhibition of STAT6 Phosphorylation
Authors: Choi Dae Woon , Jung Sun Young , Shon Dong-Hwa , Shin Hee Soon
Published: May 2020

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease predominately related to Type 2 helper T (Th2) immune responses. In this study, we investigated whether piperine is able to improve AD symptoms using a trimellitic anhydride (TMA)-induced AD-like mouse model. Topical treatment with piperine reduced ear swelling (ear thickness and epidermal thickness) induced by TMA exposure. Furthermore, piperine inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β in mouse ears, compared with the TMA-induced AD group. In measuring allergic immune responses in draining lymph nodes (dLNs), we found that IL-4 secretion, GATA3 mRNA level, and STAT6 phosphorylation were suppressed by piperine treatment. In an ex vivo study, piperine also inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT6 on the CD4+ T cells isolated from splenocytes of BALB/c mice, and piperine suppressed IL-4-induced CCL26 mRNA expression and STAT6 phosphorylation in human keratinocytes resulting in the inhibition of infiltration of CCR3+ cells into inflammatory lesions. These results demonstrate that piperine could ameliorate AD symptoms through suppression of Th2-mediated immune responses, including the STAT6/GATA3/IL-4 signaling pathway. Therefore, we suggest that piperine is an excellent candidate as an inhibitor of STAT6 and may help to improve AD symptoms.
UPLC-ESI-MS/MS-Based Widely Targeted Metabolomics Analysis of Wood Metabolites in Teak (Tectona grandis)
Authors: Yang Guang , Liang Kunnan , Zhou Zaizhi , Wang Xiyang , Huang Guihua
Published: May 2020

The properties of teak wood, such as natural durability and beautiful color, are closely associated with wood extractives. In order to further understand the performance differences between teak heartwood and sapwood, we analyzed the chemical components of extractives from 12 wood samples using an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS)-based metabolomics approach. In total, 691 metabolites were identified, and these were classified into 17 different categories. Clustering analysis and principal component analysis of metabolites showed that heartwood samples could be clearly separated from sapwood samples. Differential metabolite analysis revealed that the levels of primary metabolites, including carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides, were significantly lower in the heartwood than in the sapwood. Conversely, many secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and quinones, had higher levels in the heartwood than in the sapwood. In addition, we detected 16 specifically expressed secondary metabolites in the heartwood, the presence of which may correlate with the durability and color of teak heartwood. Our study improves the understanding of differential metabolites between sapwood and heartwood of teak, and provides a reference for the study of heartwood formation.
4f-Metal Clusters Exhibiting Slow Relaxation of Magnetization: A {Dy7} Complex with An Hourglass-like Metal Topology
Authors: Pantelis Konstantinos N. , Perlepe Panagiota S. , Grammatikopoulos Spyridon , Lampropoulos Christos , Tang Jinkui , Stamatatos Theocharis C.
Published: May 2020

The reaction between Dy(NO3)3∙6H2O and the bulky Schiff base ligand, N-naphthalidene-2-amino-5-chlorobenzoic acid (nacbH2), in the presence of the organic base NEt3 has led to crystallization and structural, spectroscopic and magnetic characterization of a new heptanuclear [Dy7(OH)6(OMe)2(NO3)1.5(nacb)2(nacbH)6(MeOH)(H2O)2](NO3)1.5 (1) compound in ~40% yield. Complex 1 has a unique hourglass-like metal topology, among all previously reported {Dy7} clusters, comprising two distorted {Dy4(μ3-OH)3(μ3-OMe)}8+ cubanes that share a common metal vertex (Dy2). Peripheral ligation about the metal core is provided by the carboxylate groups of four η1:η1:η1:μ single-deprotonated nacbH− and two η1:η1:η2:η1:μ3 fully-deprotonated nacb2− ligands. Complex 1 is the first structurally characterized 4f-metal complex bearing the chelating/bridging ligand nacbH2 at any protonation level. Magnetic susceptibility studies revealed that 1 exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization at a zero external dc field, albeit with a small energy barrier of ~5 K for the magnetization reversal, most likely due to the very fast quantum-tunneling process. The combined results are a promising start to further explore the reactivity of nacbH2 upon all lanthanide ions and the systematic use of this chelate ligand as a route to new 4f-metal cluster compounds with beautiful structures and interesting magnetic dynamics.
Effects of a Reserve Protein on Spodoptera frugiperda Development: A Biochemical and Molecular Approach to the Entomotoxic Mechanism
Authors: Oliveira Carolina Turatti , Machado Suzy Wider , Bezerra Cézar da Silva , Cardoso Marlon Henrique , Franco Octávio Luiz , Silva Carlos Peres , Alves Demetrio Gomes , Rios Cristina , Macedo Maria Lígia R.
Published: May 2020

Talisin is a storage protein from Talisia esculenta seeds that presents lectin-like and peptidase inhibitor properties. These characteristics suggest that talisin plays a role in the plant defense process, making it a multifunctional protein. This work aimed to investigate the effects of chronic intake of talisin on fifth instar larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda, considered the main insect pest of maize and the cause of substantial economic losses in several other crops. The chronic intake of talisin presented antinutritional effects on the larvae, reducing their weight and prolonging the total development time of the insects. In addition, talisin-fed larvae also showed a significant reduction in the activity of trypsin-like enzymes. Midgut histology analysis of talisin-fed larvae showed alterations in the intestinal epithelium and rupture of the peritrophic membrane, possibly causing an increase of aminopeptidase activity in the midgut lumen. Talisin also proved to be resistant to degradation by the digestive enzymes of S. frugiperda. The transcription profile of trypsin, chymotrypsin and aminopeptidase genes was also analyzed through qPCR technique. Talisin intake resulted in differential expression of at least two genes from each of these classes of enzymes. Molecular docking studies indicated a higher affinity of talisin for the less expressed enzymes.
Marine Cyanobacteria: A Source of Lead Compounds and their Clinically-Relevant Molecular Targets
Authors: Tan Lik Tong , Phyo Ma Yadanar
Published: May 2020

The prokaryotic filamentous marine cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microbes that are found in diverse marine habitats, ranging from epiphytic to endolithic communities. Their successful colonization in nature is largely attributed to genetic diversity as well as the production of ecologically important natural products. These cyanobacterial natural products are also a source of potential drug leads for the development of therapeutic agents used in the treatment of diseases, such as cancer, parasitic infections and inflammation. Major sources of these biomedically important natural compounds are found predominately from marine cyanobacterial orders Oscillatoriales, Nostocales, Chroococcales and Synechococcales. Moreover, technological advances in genomic and metabolomics approaches, such as mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy, revealed that marine cyanobacteria are a treasure trove of structurally unique natural products. The high potency of a number of natural products are due to their specific interference with validated drug targets, such as proteasomes, proteases, histone deacetylases, microtubules, actin filaments and membrane receptors/channels. In this review, the chemistry and biology of selected potent cyanobacterial compounds as well as their synthetic analogues are presented based on their molecular targets. These molecules are discussed to reflect current research trends in drug discovery from marine cyanobacterial natural products.
In Situ FTIR Spectroscopic Monitoring of the Formation of the Arene Diazonium Salts and Its Applications to the Heck–Matsuda Reaction
Authors: Reddy K. Sateesh , Siva Bandi , Reddy S. Divya , Naresh N. Reddy , Pratap T. V. , Rao B. Venkateswara , Hong Yi-An , Kumar B. Vijaya , Raju A. Krishnam , Reddy P. Muralidhar , Hu Anren
Published: May 2020

This study depicts the use of a fiber-optic coupled Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR) probe for the in-depth study of arene diazonium salt formation and their utilization in the Heck–Matsuda reaction. The combination of these chemical reactions and in situ IR spectroscopy enabled us to recognize the optimum parameters for arene diazonium salt formation and to track the concentrations of reactants, products and intermediates under actual reaction conditions without time consuming HPLC analysis and the necessity of collecting the sample amid the reaction. Overall advantages of the proposed methodology include precise reaction times as well as identification of keto enol tautomerization in allylic alcohols supporting the ‘path a’ elimination mechanism in the Heck–Matsuda reaction.
Interactive Effects of Wide-Spectrum Monochromatic Lights on Phytochemical Production, Antioxidant and Biological Activities of Solanum xanthocarpum Callus Cultures
Authors: Usman Hazrat , Ullah Muhammad Asad , Jan Hasnain , Siddiquah Aisha , Drouet Samantha , Anjum Sumaira , Giglioli-Guviarc’h Nathalie , Hano Christophe , Abbasi Bilal Haider
Published: May 2020

Solanum xanthocarpum is considered an important traditional medicinal herb because of its unique antioxidant, and anti-diabetic, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory potential. Because of the over exploitation linked to its medicinal properties as well as destruction of its natural habitat, S. xanthocarpum is now becoming endangered and its supply is limited. Plant in vitro culture and elicitation are attractive alternative strategies to produce biomass and stimulate biosynthesis of medicinally important phytochemicals. Here, we investigated the potential influence of seven different monochromatic light treatments on biomass and secondary metabolites accumulation in callus culture of S. xanthocarpum as well as associated biological activities of the corresponding extracts. Among different light treatments, highest biomass accumulation was observed in white light-treated callus culture. Optimum accumulation of total flavonoid contents (TFC) and total phenolic contents (TPC) were observed in callus culture kept under continuous white and blue light respectively than control. Quantification of phytochemicals through HPLC revealed that optimum production of caffeic acid (0.57 ± 0.06 mg/g DW), methyl-caffeate (17.19 mg/g ± 1.79 DW), scopoletin (2.28 ± 0.13 mg/g DW), and esculetin (0.68 ± 0.07 mg/g DW) was observed under blue light callus cultures. Compared to the classic photoperiod condition, caffeic acid, methyl-caffeate, scopoletin, and esculetin were accumulated 1.7, 2.5, 1.1, and 1.09-folds higher, respectively. Moreover, high in vitro cell free antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory activities were closely associated with the production of these secondary metabolites. These results clearly showed the interest to apply multispectral light as elicitor of in vitro callus cultures S. xanthocarpum to promote the production of important phytochemicals, and allow us to propose this system as an alternative for the collection of this endangered species from the wild.
Chemical Composition and Plant Growth of Centaurea raphanina subsp. mixta Plants Cultivated under Saline Conditions
Authors: A. Petropoulos Spyridon , Fernandes Ângela , Dias Maria Ines , Pereira Carla , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Chrysargyris Antonios , Tzortzakis Nikolaos , Ivanov Marija , D. Sokovic Marina , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: May 2020

The aim of this report was to study the effect of salinity (control: 2dS/m, S1: 4 dS/m and S2: 6 dS/m) and harvest time (first harvest on 9 May 2018 and second harvest on 19 April 2018) on the growth and the chemical composition of Centaurea raphanina subsp. mixta plants. The plants of the first harvest were used for the plant growth measurements (fresh weight and moisture content of leaves, rosette diameter, number and thickness of leaves), whereas those of the second harvest were not used for these measurements due to the flowering initiation, which made the leaves unmarketable due to their hard texture. The results of our study showed that C. raphanina subsp. mixta plants can be cultivated under mild salinity (S1 treatment) conditions without severe effects on plant growth and yield, since a more severe loss (27.5%) was observed for the S2 treatment. In addition, harvest time proved to be a cost-effective cultivation practice that allows to regulate the quality of the final product, either in edible form (first harvest) or for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical purposes as well as antimicrobial agents in food products. Therefore, the combination of these two agronomic factors showed interesting results in terms of the quality of the final product. In particular, high salinity (S2 treatment) improved the nutritional value by increasing the fat, proteins and carbohydrates contents in the first harvest, as well as the tocopherols and sugars contents (S1 and S2 treatments, respectively) in the second harvest. In addition, salinity and harvest time affected the oxalic acid content which was the lowest for the S2 treatment at the second harvest. Similarly, the richest fatty acid (α-linolenic acid) increased with increasing salinity at the first harvest. Salinity and harvest time also affected the antimicrobial properties, especially against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Trichoderma viride, where the extracts from the S1 and S2 treatments showed high effectiveness. In contrast, the highest amounts of flavanones (pinocembrin derivatives) were detected in the control treatment (second harvest), which was also reflected to the highest antioxidant activity (TBARS) for the same treatment. In conclusion, C. raphanina subsp. mixta plants seem to be tolerant to medium salinity stress (S1 treatment) since plant growth was not severely impaired, while salinity and harvesting time affected the nutritional value (fat, proteins, and carbohydrates) and the chemical composition (tocopherols, sugars, oxalic acid, fatty acids), as well as the bioactive properties (cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties) of the final product.
Inositol Pyrophosphates: Signaling Molecules with Pleiotropic Actions in Mammals
Authors: Lee Seulgi , Kim Min-Gyu , Ahn Hyoungjoon , Kim Seyun
Published: May 2020

Inositol pyrophosphates (PP-IPs) such as 5-diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (5-IP7) are inositol metabolites containing high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds. Biosynthesis of PP-IPs is mediated by IP6 kinases (IP6Ks) and PPIP5 kinases (PPIP5Ks), which transfer phosphate to inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6). Pleiotropic actions of PP-IPs are involved in many key biological processes, including growth, vesicular remodeling, and energy homeostasis. PP-IPs function to regulate their target proteins through allosteric interactions or protein pyrophosphorylation. This review summarizes the current understanding of how PP-IPs control mammalian cellular signaling networks in physiology and disease.
Water-Soluble Polysaccharides from Ephedra alata Stems: Structural Characterization, Functional Properties, and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Soua Leila , Koubaa Mohamed , Barba Francisco J. , Fakhfakh Jawhar , Ghamgui Hanen Kolsi , Chaabouni Semia Ellouz
Published: May 2020

In this study, the physicochemical characterization, functional properties, and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides extracted from Ephedra alata (EAP) were investigated. EAP were extracted in water during 3 h with a liquid/solid ratio of 5 in a water bath at 90 °C. The structure of the extracted EAP was examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The functional properties and biochemical activities of EAP were determined. The chemical analysis revealed that the contents of carbohydrates, uronic acid, and proteins were 73.24% ± 1.24%, 6.82% ± 0.57%, and 6.56% ± 0.36%, respectively. The results showed that the extracted EAP essentially contain three functional groups: C=O, C-H, and O-H. SEM images showed that EAP present numerous high porosity particles. The monosaccharide composition revealed a polymer composed of glucose (43.1%), galactose (36.4%), mannose (14.9%), arabinose (3.7%), and gluconic acid (1.7%). EAP showed interesting functional properties (solubility, oil holding capacity, foaming and emulsion properties). Finally, the results revealed that EAP displayed excellent antihypertensive and antioxidant activities. Overall, EAP present a promising natural source of food additives, antioxidants, and antihypertensive agents.
Role of Nutrition in Prevention of Neonatal Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation and Its Complications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Olaloye Oluwabunmi , Swatski Matthew , Konnikova Liza
Published: May 2020

Background: Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) is a devastating complication of prematurity, and extremely low birthweight (ELBW < 1000 g) infants born prior to 28 weeks are at highest risk. The role of nutrition and feeding practices in prevention and complications of SIP is unclear. The purpose of this review is to compile evidence to support early nutrition initiation in infants at risk for and after surgery for SIP. Methods: A search of PubMed, EMBASE and Medline was performed using relevant search terms according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Abstracts and full texts were reviewed by co-first authors. Studies with infants diagnosed with SIP that included information on nutrition/feeding practices prior to SIP and post-operatively were included. Primary outcome was time to first feed. Secondary outcomes were incidence of SIP, time to full enteral feeds, duration of parenteral nutrition, length of stay, neurodevelopmental outcomes and mortality. Results: Nineteen articles met inclusion criteria—nine studies included feeding/nutrition data prior to SIP and ten studies included data on post-operative nutrition. Two case series, one cohort study and sixteen historical control studies were included. Three studies showed reduced incidence of SIP with initiation of enteral nutrition in the first three days of life. Two studies showed reduced mortality and neurodevelopmental impairment in infants with early feeding. Conclusions: Available data suggest that early enteral nutrition in ELBW infants reduces incidence of SIP without increased mortality.
Minimally Invasive Treatment of Edentulous Maxillae with Overdenture Fully Supported by a Cad/Cam Titanium Bar with a Low-Profile Attachment Screwed on Four or Six Implants: A Case Series
Authors: Tallarico Marco , Cervino Gabriele , Scrascia Roberto , Uccioli Umberto , Lumbau Aurea , Meloni Silvio
Published: May 2020

Rehabilitation of atrophic maxilla still remains a challenge. Fixed implant-supported restorations have become more predictable in the last years; nevertheless, technical and biological complications still occur. Removable overdenture fully supported by a CAD/CAM titanium bar seems to be a viable treatment option for the rehabilitation of completely edentulous patients with a high degree of bone resorption. In these clinical cases, the soft tissues of the lower third of the face need to be respected, and a fixed-removable solution is the only option to have good hygiene control. Nevertheless, there is no consensus about the optimal number and position of the implants. A total of six adult patients were recruited and treated with an overdenture fully supported by a CAD/CAM titanium bar and low-profile attachment, screwed on four or six implants. A detailed step-by-step description of the procedures was presented. Overall, all the patients were successful treated with no relevant complications. With the limitations of this case series, maxillary implant overdenture fully supported by four or six implants seems to be a safer treatment option for the minimally invasive rehabilitation of atrophic maxillae, regardless of the number of implants.
Multicore Study of Upper Holocene Mire Development in West-Frisia, Northern Netherlands: Ecological and Archaeological Aspects
Authors: van Geel Bas , Brinkkemper Otto , van Reenen Guido B.A. , Van der Putten Nathalie N.L. , Sybenga Jasmijn E. , Soonius Carla , Kooijman Annemieke M. , Hakbijl Tom , Gosling William D.
Published: May 2020

We studied twelve late Holocene organic deposits in West-Frisia, The Netherlands. Pollen, spores, non-pollen palynomorphs, mosses, other botanical macrofossils and insect remains were recorded for reconstructions of changing environmental conditions. Eastern West-Frisia was a cultivated landscape during the Bronze Age, but it became a freshwater wetland in the Late Bronze Age. In most of our sites, radiocarbon dates show that time transgressive inundation of soils preceded the climate shift at 850 cal BC for several centuries. We suggest that solar forcing of climate change may have delivered the final push to the inundation and depopulation of West-Frisia, which had already commenced several centuries before, due to sealevel rise. We did not find evidence for significant Bronze Age tree growth in West-Frisia before the inundations. Vegetation successions in the new wetlands developed from shallow mineral-rich freshwater to rich-fen vegetation. Subsequently poor fen vegetation with birch and pine developed, and the natural succession led to ombrotrophic raised bog vegetation. Complete successions from shallow, mineral-rich lakes to raised bog lasted between 1000 and 1500 calendar years. We hypothesize that medieval drainage and reclamation became possible only when the mires of West-Frisia had reached the raised bog stage. Reclamation of raised bogs by medieval farmers (drainage, eutrophication, peat digging) caused compaction, oxidation and loss of the upper part of the peat deposit. Seeds of salt-tolerant and salt-demanding plant species indicate that the medieval sites were inundated during storm surges with brackish or salt water, which triggered the farmers to build artificial mounds and, later, dikes. Under mounds and dikes, peat deposits remained protected against further decay. With our data we deliver a long-term perspective on contemporary ecosystem dynamics of freshwater wetlands, relevant for nature conservation and future climate change.
State of the Art in Paleoenvironment Mapping for Modeling Applications in Archeology—Summary, Conclusions, and Future Directions from the PaleoMaps Workshop
Authors: Willmes Christian , Niedziółka Kamil , Serbe Benjamin , Grimm Sonja B. , Groß Daniel , Miebach Andrea , Märker Michael , Henselowsky Felix , Gamisch Alexander , Rostami Masoud , Mateos Ana , Rodríguez Jesús , Limberg Heiko , Schmidt Isabell , Müller Martin , Hölzchen Ericson , Holthausen Michael , Klein Konstantin , Wegener Christian , Weninger Bernhard , Nielsen Trine Kellberg , Otto Taylor , Weniger Gerd-Christian , Bubenzer Olaf , Bareth Georg
Published: May 2020

In this report, we present the contributions, outcomes, ideas, discussions and conclusions obtained at the PaleoMaps Workshop 2019, that took place at the Institute of Geography of the University of Cologne on 23 and 24 September 2019. The twofold aim of the workshop was: (1) to provide an overview of approaches and methods that are presently used to incorporate paleoenvironmental information in human–environment interaction modeling applications, and building thereon; (2) to devise new approaches and solutions that might be used to enhance the reconstruction of past human–environmental interconnections. This report first outlines the presented papers, and then provides a joint protocol of the often extensive discussions that came up following the presentations or else during the refreshment intervals. It concludes by adressing the open points to be resolved in future research avenues, e.g., implementation of open science practices, new procedures for reviewing of publications, and future concepts for quality assurance of the often complex paleoenvironmental data. This report may serve as an overview of the state of the art in paleoenvironment mapping and modeling. It includes an extensive compilation of the basic literature, as provided by the workshop attendants, which will itself facilitate the necessary future research.
Effect of SEBS and OBC on the Impact Strength of Recycled Polypropylene/Talc Composites
Authors: Monti Marco , Scrivani Maria Teresa , Gianotti Valentina
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we report a study on the use of a linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene/butylene (SEBS) and a polypropylene (PP)-based olefin block copolymer (OBC) for improving the impact strength of a recycled polypropylene (PP) from packaging waste. Talc was used as a reinforcing filler in order to prepare a material suitable for being used in the automotive sector. The composite mixtures were prepared by melt extrusion, and the samples were manufactured by injection molding. Impact strength was evaluated by Izod tests, and a morphological study of the produced fractures was performed. As a result, a composite with substantially improved impact properties was prepared, with a two-fold increase of the impact strength in the case of unnotched specimens, while only a limited positive effect was produced on notched specimens. Since talc-filled PP is a typical material used in the automotive sector, the obtained results demonstrate that post-consumer PP coming from the municipal waste collection of plastic packaging can be successfully used in car components with no compromise in terms of mechanical requirements.
How Reliable Is the Electrochemical Readout of MIP Sensors?
Authors: Yarman Aysu , Scheller Frieder W.
Published: May 2020

Electrochemical methods offer the simple characterization of the synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and the readouts of target binding. The binding of electroinactive analytes can be detected indirectly by their modulating effect on the diffusional permeability of a redox marker through thin MIP films. However, this process generates an overall signal, which may include nonspecific interactions with the nonimprinted surface and adsorption at the electrode surface in addition to (specific) binding to the cavities. Redox-active low-molecular-weight targets and metalloproteins enable a more specific direct quantification of their binding to MIPs by measuring the faradaic current. The in situ characterization of enzymes, MIP-based mimics of redox enzymes or enzyme-labeled targets, is based on the indication of an electroactive product. This approach allows the determination of both the activity of the bio(mimetic) catalyst and of the substrate concentration.
An Improved Approach for the Control Measurements of a Ski-Flying Hill Inrun: A Case Study of Planica
Authors: Urbančič Tilen , Sterle Oskar , Kregar Klemen
Published: May 2020

Ski jumping hills should be prepared for competitions in accordance with project documentation in order to ensure safe and fair conditions for competitors. Geodesy/surveying is essential for guiding preparations and controlling the actual shape of the hill. In this article, we present a methodology for the control measurements and preparation of an inrun for a ski-flying hill in Planica. On each side of the track, there is metal tube that guides the trolley, which mills tracks into the ice. A special platform containing three measuring prisms was designed to control the position of the tubes. The proposed method was thoroughly analyzed in terms of its measurement quality and compared to previously used methodologies. The empirical results suggest that our proposed platform provides inrun geometry with a higher quality than previously used methods.