bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brazilian Citizens: Expectations Regarding Dairy Cattle Welfare and Awareness of Contentious Practices
Authors: Cardoso Clarissa , Von Keyserlingk Marina , Hötzel Maria
Published: November 2017

The primary aim of this study was to explore attitudes of urban Brazilian citizens about dairy production. A secondary aim was to determine their knowledge and attitudes about four potentially contentious routine dairy cattle management practices: early cow-calf separation; zero-grazing; culling of newborn male calves; and dehorning without pain mitigation. To address the first aim 40 participants were interviewed using open-ended semi-structured questions designed to probe their views and attitudes about dairy production in Brazil, and 300 participants answered a questionnaire that included an open-ended question about the welfare of dairy cattle. Primary concerns reported by the participants centered on milk quality, which included the rejection of any chemical additives, but also animal welfare, environmental and social issues. The interviewees rarely mentioned animal welfare directly but, when probed, expressed several concerns related to this topic. In particular, participants commented on factors that they perceived to influence milk quality, such as good animal health, feeding, clean facilities, and the need to avoid or reduce the use of drugs, hormones and pesticides, the avoidance of pain, frustration and suffering, and the ability of the animals to perform natural behaviors. To address our second aim, participants were asked questions about the four routine management practices. Although they self-reported being largely unaware of these practices, the majority of the participants rejected these practices outright. These data provide insight that animal welfare may be an important issue for members of the public. Failure to consider this information may increase the risk that certain dairy production practices may not be socially sustainable once lay citizens become aware of them.
The Weak Spots in Contemporary Science (and How to Fix Them)
Authors: Wicherts Jelte
Published: November 2017

In this review, the author discusses several of the weak spots in contemporary science, including scientific misconduct, the problems of post hoc hypothesizing (HARKing), outcome switching, theoretical bloopers in formulating research questions and hypotheses, selective reading of the literature, selective citing of previous results, improper blinding and other design failures, p-hacking or researchers’ tendency to analyze data in many different ways to find positive (typically significant) results, errors and biases in the reporting of results, and publication bias. The author presents some empirical results highlighting problems that lower the trustworthiness of reported results in scientific literatures, including that of animal welfare studies. Some of the underlying causes of these biases are discussed based on the notion that researchers are only human and hence are not immune to confirmation bias, hindsight bias, and minor ethical transgressions. The author discusses solutions in the form of enhanced transparency, sharing of data and materials, (post-publication) peer review, pre-registration, registered reports, improved training, reporting guidelines, replication, dealing with publication bias, alternative inferential techniques, power, and other statistical tools.
Design of a Road Simulator for Motorcycle Applications
Authors: Chindamo Daniel , Gadola Marco , Armellin Dario , Marchesin Felipe
Published: November 2017

Four-wheeled vehicles are often tested on indoor, four-poster road simulator rigs. Road loads are simulated with the use of servo-hydraulic systems for suspension set-up optimisation, NVH analysis, and fatigue life cycles. The use of a road simulator is not such a common practice for two-wheeled vehicles despite problems to be faced being extremely similar. The paper presents a device for testing motorcycles on a Servotest® four-poster. A dedicated restraint system had to be devised in order to support the motorcycle without altering its inertial characteristics. Additional pneumatic actuators with a purposely developed instrumentation have been designed to reproduce braking and power thrusts.
Integrative Bioinformatic Analysis of Transcriptomic Data Identifies Conserved Molecular Pathways Underlying Ionizing Radiation-Induced Bystander Effects (RIBE)
Authors: Yeles Constantinos , Vlachavas Efstathios-Iason , Papadodima Olga , Pilalis Eleftherios , Vorgias Constantinos , Georgakilas Alexandros , Chatziioannou Aristotelis
Published: November 2017

Ionizing radiation-induced bystander effects (RIBE) encompass a number of effects with potential for a plethora of damages in adjacent non-irradiated tissue. The cascade of molecular events is initiated in response to the exposure to ionizing radiation (IR), something that may occur during diagnostic or therapeutic medical applications. In order to better investigate these complex response mechanisms, we employed a unified framework integrating statistical microarray analysis, signal normalization, and translational bioinformatics functional analysis techniques. This approach was applied to several microarray datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) related to RIBE. The analysis produced lists of differentially expressed genes, contrasting bystander and irradiated samples versus sham-irradiated controls. Furthermore, comparative molecular analysis through BioInfoMiner, which integrates advanced statistical enrichment and prioritization methodologies, revealed discrete biological processes, at the cellular level. For example, the negative regulation of growth, cellular response to Zn2+-Cd2+, and Wnt and NIK/NF-kappaB signaling, thus refining the description of the phenotypic landscape of RIBE. Our results provide a more solid understanding of RIBE cell-specific response patterns, especially in the case of high-LET radiations, like α-particles and carbon-ions.
Targeting Autophagy in ALK-Associated Cancers
Authors: Frentzel Julie , Sorrentino Domenico , Giuriato Sylvie
Published: November 2017

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic process, which is used by the cells for cytoplasmic quality control. This process is induced following different kinds of stresses e.g., metabolic, environmental, or therapeutic, and acts, in this framework, as a cell survival mechanism. However, under certain circumstances, autophagy has been associated with cell death. This duality has been extensively reported in solid and hematological cancers, and has been observed during both tumor development and cancer therapy. As autophagy plays a critical role at the crossroads between cell survival and cell death, its involvement and therapeutic modulation (either activation or inhibition) are currently intensively studied in cancer biology, to improve treatments and patient outcomes. Over the last few years, studies have demonstrated the occurrence of autophagy in different Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK)-associated cancers, notably ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), Neuroblastoma (NB), and Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). In this review, we will first briefly describe the autophagic process and how it can lead to opposite outcomes in anti-cancer therapies, and we will then focus on what is currently known regarding autophagy in ALK-associated cancers.
Process Intensification of Alkynol Semihydrogenation in a Tube Reactor Coated with a Pd/ZnO Catalyst
Authors: Cherkasov Nikolay , Bai Yang , Rebrov Evgeny
Published: November 2017

Semihydrogenation of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol (MBY) was studied in a 5 m tube reactor wall-coated with a 5 wt% Pd/ZnO catalyst. The system allowed for the excellent selectivity towards the intermediate alkene of 97.8 ± 0.2% at an ambient H2 pressure and a MBY conversion below 90%. The maximum alkene yield reached 94.6% under solvent-free conditions and 96.0% in a 30 vol % MBY aqueous solution. The reactor stability was studied for 80 h on stream with a deactivation rate of only 0.07% per hour. Such a low deactivation rate provides a continuous operation of one month with only a two-fold decrease in catalyst activity and a metal leaching below 1 parts per billion (ppb). The excellent turn-over numbers (TON) of above 105 illustrates a very efficient utilisation of the noble metal inside catalyst-coated tube reactors. When compared to batch operation at 70 °C, the reaction rate in flow reactor can be increased by eight times at a higher reaction temperature, keeping the same product decomposition of about 1% in both cases.
Stereoselective Copolymerization of Styrene with Terpenes Catalyzed by an Ansa-Lanthanidocene Catalyst: Access to New Syndiotactic Polystyrene-Based Materials
Authors: Laur Eva , Welle Alexandre , Vantomme Aurélien , Brusson Jean-Michel , Carpentier Jean-François , Kirillov Evgueni
Published: November 2017

The copolymerization of bio-renewable β-myrcene or β-farnesene with styrene was examined using an ansa-neodymocene catalyst, affording two series of copolymers with high styrene content and unprecedented syndioregularity of the polystyrene sequences. The incorporation of terpene in the copolymers ranged from 5.6 to 30.8 mol % (β-myrcene) and from 2.5 to 9.8 mol % (β-farnesene), respectively. NMR spectroscopy and DSC analyses suggested that the microstructure of the copolymers consists of 1,4- and 3,4-poly(terpene) units randomly distributed along syndiotactic polystyrene chains. The thermal properties of the copolymers are strongly dependent on the terpene content, which is easily controlled by the initial feed. The terpolymerization of styrene with β-myrcene in the presence of ethylene was also examined.
Congestion Quantification Using the National Performance Management Research Data Set
Authors: Sisiopiku Virginia , Rostami-Hosuri Shaghayegh
Published: November 2017

Monitoring of transportation system performance is a key element of any transportation operation and planning strategy. Estimation of dependable performance measures relies on analysis of large amounts of traffic data, which are often expensive and difficult to gather. National databases can assist in this regard, but challenges still remain with respect to data management, accuracy, storage, and use for performance monitoring. In an effort to address such challenges, this paper showcases a process that utilizes the National Performance Management Research Data Set (NPMRDS) for generating performance measures for congestion monitoring applications in the Birmingham region. The capabilities of the relational database management system (RDBMS) are employed to manage the large amounts of NPMRDS data. Powerful visual maps are developed using GIS software and used to illustrate congestion location, extent and severity. Travel time reliability indices are calculated and utilized to quantify congestion, and congestion intensity measures are developed and employed to rank and prioritize congested segments in the study area. The process for managing and using big traffic data described in the Birmingham case study is a great example that can be replicated by small and mid-size Metropolitan Planning Organizations to generate performance-based measures and monitor congestion in their jurisdictions.
Information Theory to Probe Intrapartum Fetal Heart Rate Dynamics
Authors: Granero-Belinchon Carlos , Roux Stéphane , Abry Patrice , Doret Muriel , Garnier Nicolas
Published: November 2017

Intrapartum fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring constitutes a reference tool in clinical practice to assess the baby’s health status and to detect fetal acidosis. It is usually analyzed by visual inspection grounded on FIGO criteria. Characterization of intrapartum fetal heart rate temporal dynamics remains a challenging task and continuously receives academic research efforts. Complexity measures, often implemented with tools referred to as approximate entropy (ApEn) or sample entropy (SampEn), have regularly been reported as significant features for intrapartum FHR analysis. We explore how information theory, and especially auto-mutual information (AMI), is connected to ApEn and SampEn and can be used to probe FHR dynamics. Applied to a large (1404 subjects) and documented database of FHR data, collected in a French academic hospital, it is shown that (i) auto-mutual information outperforms ApEn and SampEn for acidosis detection in the first stage of labor and continues to yield the best performance in the second stage; (ii) Shannon entropy increases as labor progresses and is always much larger in the second stage; (iii) babies suffering from fetal acidosis additionally show more structured temporal dynamics than healthy ones and that this progressive structuration can be used for early acidosis detection.
Impact of DC Voltage Enhancement on Partial Discharges in Medium Voltage Cables—An Empirical Study with Defects at Semicon-Dielectric Interface
Authors: Shekhar Aditya , Feng Xianyong , Gattozzi Angelo , Hebner Robert , Wardell Douglas , Strank Shannon , Rodrigo-Mor Armando , Ramírez-Elizondo Laura , Bauer Pavol
Published: November 2017

A scientific consensus is emerging on the benefits of direct current (DC) distribution in medium voltage (MV) power systems of ships and cities. At least 50% space savings and increased power transfer capacity are estimated with enhanced voltage DC operation of electric cables. The goal of this research is to contribute to developing the empirical knowledge on the insulation performance in order to validate the feasibility of such anticipated gains of DC versus alternating current (AC), and to determine the comparative impact of different operational conditions from a component engineering point of view. The partial discharge (PD) activity in cables is measured under AC and DC conditions as an indicator of insulation performance. Specifically, PDs in defects at the semicon-insulation interface are studied in terms of inception voltage, repetition rate and discharge magnitude. Empirical understanding is drawn for operating voltage and frequency dependence of the discharge behavior in such voids in the range of 10 to 20 kV and 0 to 0.1 Hz, respectively. The change in PD activity with void evolution post temperature-induced ageing process is explored.
Biodesulfurization of Petroleum Distillates—Current Status, Opportunities and Future Challenges
Authors: Sadare Olawumi , Obazu Franklin , Daramola Michael
Published: November 2017

Sulfur oxide (SO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are considered as one of the major air pollutants in the world today. In addition, high sulfur levels in petroleum distillates can promote the deactivation of catalysts through poisoning in fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC) during hydrocracking of the heavy distillates to lighter ones. The presence of high sulfur-containing compounds in the process streams could cause corrosion of piping and fittings and equipment, thereby damaging the pipelines and leading to air emissions of sulfur-containing compounds, which are undesirable for mankind and his environment. In many cases, a large quantity of SOx is released into the atmosphere when petroleum distillates that contain substantial amount of sulphur-containing compounds are used as fuel and combust. In this article, a short overview of different desulfurization methods that are employed to remove sulfur from petroleum distillates is provided. In particular, the review concentrates on biodesulfurization technique. In addition, this article intends to provide its readers current status of biodesulfurization (BDS). It critically analyses the trend in the development of the technology to showcase its strength and weakness that could pave a way for future opportunities. Approaches that are suitable to remediate sulfur-contaminated environment are discussed as well. Lastly, speculations on future directions or opportunities that require exploration are provided as a way of provoking the thoughts of researchers in this field.
Applying Topographic Classification, Based on the Hydrological Process, to Design Habitat Linkages for Climate Change
Authors: Mo Yongwon , Lee Dong , Song Keunyea , Kim Ho , Park Soo
Published: November 2017

The use of biodiversity surrogates has been discussed in the context of designing habitat linkages to support the migration of species affected by climate change. Topography has been proposed as a useful surrogate in the coarse-filter approach, as the hydrological process caused by topography such as erosion and accumulation is the basis of ecological processes. However, some studies that have designed topographic linkages as habitat linkages, so far have focused much on the shape of the topography (morphometric topographic classification) with little emphasis on the hydrological processes (generic topographic classification) to find such topographic linkages. We aimed to understand whether generic classification was valid for designing these linkages. First, we evaluated whether topographic classification is more appropriate for describing actual (coniferous and deciduous) and potential (mammals and amphibians) habitat distributions. Second, we analyzed the difference in the linkages between the morphometric and generic topographic classifications. The results showed that the generic classification represented the actual distribution of the trees, but neither the morphometric nor the generic classification could represent the potential animal distributions adequately. Our study demonstrated that the topographic classes, according to the generic classification, were arranged successively according to the flow of water, nutrients, and sediment; therefore, it would be advantageous to secure linkages with a width of 1 km or more. In addition, the edge effect would be smaller than with the morphometric classification. Accordingly, we suggest that topographic characteristics, based on the hydrological process, are required to design topographic linkages for climate change.
Effect of Salt Reduction on Consumer Acceptance and Sensory Quality of Food
Authors: Hoppu Ulla , Hopia Anu , Pohjanheimo Terhi , Rotola-Pukkila Minna , Mäkinen Sari , Pihlanto Anne , Sandell Mari
Published: November 2017

Reducing salt (NaCl) intake is an important public health target. The food industry and catering services are searching for means to reduce the salt content in their products. This review focuses on options for salt reduction in foods and the sensory evaluation of salt-reduced foods. Simple salt reduction, mineral salts and flavor enhancers/modifiers (e.g., umami compounds) are common options for salt reduction. In addition, the modification of food texture and odor-taste interactions may contribute to enhanced salty taste perception. Maintaining consumer acceptance of the products is a challenge, and recent examples of the consumer perception of salt-reduced foods are presented.
Improved Concrete Materials with Hydrogel-Based Internal Curing Agents
Authors: Krafcik Matthew , Macke Nicholas , Erk Kendra
Published: November 2017

This research article will describe the design and use of polyelectrolyte hydrogel particles as internal curing agents in concrete and present new results on relevant hydrogel-ion interactions. When incorporated into concrete, hydrogel particles release their stored water to fuel the curing reaction, resulting in reduced volumetric shrinkage and cracking and thus increasing concrete service life. The hydrogel’s swelling performance and mechanical properties are strongly sensitive to multivalent cations that are naturally present in concrete mixtures, including calcium and aluminum. Model poly(acrylic acid(AA)-acrylamide(AM))-based hydrogel particles with different chemical compositions (AA:AM monomer ratio) were synthesized and immersed in sodium, calcium, and aluminum salt solutions. The presence of multivalent cations resulted in decreased swelling capacity and altered swelling kinetics to the point where some hydrogel compositions displayed rapid deswelling behavior and the formation of a mechanically stiff shell. Interestingly, when incorporated into mortar, hydrogel particles reduced mixture shrinkage while encouraging the formation of specific inorganic phases (calcium hydroxide and calcium silicate hydrate) within the void space previously occupied by the swollen particle.
Mental Health of the Prison Medical Workers (PMWs) and Influencing Factors in Jiangxi, China
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Jiang Dongdong , Hou Zhaoxun , He Meikun , Lu Yuanan , Mao Zongfu
Published: November 2017

Prison medical workers (PMWs) are critically important, but they are also vulnerable to psychological problems. Currently, there is no study on examining PMWs’ mental health conditions and possible influencing factors in China. Hence, we conducted this cross-sectional survey, aiming to understand the mental health status of the PMWs and related impact factors in Jiangxi province of China. We employed the Chinese version of the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) to assess the mental disorders and psychological health conditions of PMWs in Jiangxi. The t tests were used to compare the differences for the average score of SCL-90-R between the Chinese general population and targeted PMWs of this study. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the main factors associated with overall detection rate of PMWs’ psychological health conditions. The scores of four dimensions (somatization, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, anxiety, and paranoid ideation) were significantly higher than the Chinese national norm, and the total positive rate was 49.09% among the PMWs. Gender, marital status, age, and length of employment are identified to be the most significant predictors to affect PMWs’ mental health. Positive correlations between each of the nine dimensions of the SCL-90-R have been verified. This study demonstrated for the first time that PMWs are facing mental health risk and suffering serious psychological problems with psychopathology symptoms, which has become a growing concern in China. Our current findings suggest a need for more in-depth studies on this subject going forward to validate our conclusions and also to identify more impact factors, since such studies and knowledge of PMWs’ mental health and influencing factors are very limited in China.
Insecticidal Effects of Plasma Treated Water
Authors: Ten Bosch Lars , Köhler Robert , Ortmann Rinat , Wieneke Stephan , Viöl Wolfgang
Published: November 2017

The efficacy of plasma-treated tap water (PTW) for the possible treatment of a mealybug (Planococcus citri) infestation was studied under laboratory conditions. Mealybugs growing on Nerium oleander have been treated using PTW after being transferred to Petri dishes, thus avoiding possible buffering effects that might occur in an in-situ study. When treating tap water with a dielectric barrier discharge for several minutes (1, 3, 5 and 10 min) a distinct acidification of the water can be determined, resulting in a pH value of 1.8 after 10 min treatment. The efficacies of the treated tap water samples were compared to the efficacies achieved using classically acidified water. The classical acidification of tap water was carried out using nitric acid and hydrochloric acid to see any possible influences of the salt of the acid in question. The application of PTW revealed high mortality rates of approx. 90% after an observation period of 24 h. PTW appears promising for the treatment of smaller plant stock and commodities as produced by small scale farmers or in greenhouses as an environmentally friendly substitute or supplement to conventional pesticides.
Experiences with Citizen-Sourced VGI in Challenging Circumstances
Authors: Hameed Mustafa , Fairbairn David , Speak Suzanne
Published: November 2017

The article explores the process of Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) collection by assessing the relative usability and accuracy of a range of different methods (smartphone GPS, tablet, and analogue maps) for data collection among different demographic and educational groups, and in different geographical contexts within a study area. Assessments are made of positional accuracy, completeness, and the experiences of citizen data collectors with reference to the official cadastral data and the land administration system. Ownership data were validated by crowd agreement. The outcomes of this research show the varying effects of volunteers, data collection method, geographical area, and application field, on geospatial data handling in the VGI arena. An overview of the many issues affecting the development and implementation of VGI projects is included. These are focused on the specific example of VGI data handling presented here: a case study area where instability and lack of resources are found alongside strong communities and a pressing need for more robust and effective official structures. The chosen example relates to the administration of land in an area of Iraq.
Role of MicroRNAs in TGF-β Signaling Pathway-Mediated Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Kang Hara
Published: November 2017

Pulmonary fibrosis is the most common form of interstitial lung disease. The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway is extensively involved in the development of pulmonary fibrosis by inducing cell differentiation, migration, invasion, or hyperplastic changes. Accumulating evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs) are dysregulated during the initiation of pulmonary fibrosis. miRNAs are small noncoding RNAs functioning as negative regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. A number of miRNAs have been reported to regulate the TGF-β signaling pathway and consequently affect the process of pulmonary fibrosis. A better understanding of the pro-fibrotic role of the TGF-β signaling pathway and relevant miRNA regulation will shed light on biomedical research of pulmonary fibrosis. This review summarizes the current knowledge of miRNAs regulating the TGF-β signaling pathway with relevance to pulmonary fibrosis.
Role of Vitamin D in Maintaining Renal Epithelial Barrier Function in Uremic Conditions
Authors: Mihajlovic Milos , Fedecostante Michele , Oost Miriam , Steenhuis Sonja , Lentjes Eef , Maitimu-Smeele Inge , Janssen Manoe , Hilbrands Luuk , Masereeuw Rosalinde
Published: November 2017

As current kidney replacement therapies are not efficient enough for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) treatment, a bioartificial kidney (BAK) device, based on conditionally immortalized human proximal tubule epithelial cells (ciPTEC), could represent an attractive solution. The active transport activity of such a system was recently demonstrated. In addition, endocrine functions of the cells, such as vitamin D activation, are relevant. The organic anion transporter 1 (OAT-1) overexpressing ciPTEC line presented 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), 24-hydroxylase (CYP24A1) and vitamin D receptor (VDR), responsible for vitamin D activation, degradation and function, respectively. The ability to produce and secrete 1α,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3, was shown after incubation with the precursor, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3. The beneficial effect of vitamin D on cell function and behavior in uremic conditions was studied in the presence of an anionic uremic toxins mixture. Vitamin D could restore cell viability, and inflammatory and oxidative status, as shown by cell metabolic activity, interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, respectively. Finally, vitamin D restored transepithelial barrier function, as evidenced by decreased inulin-FITC leakage in biofunctionalized hollow fiber membranes (HFM) carrying ciPTEC-OAT1. In conclusion, the protective effects of vitamin D in uremic conditions and proven ciPTEC-OAT1 endocrine function encourage the use of these cells for BAK application.
Paraneoplastic Pemphigus: Insight into the Autoimmune Pathogenesis, Clinical Features and Therapy
Authors: Paolino Giovanni , Didona Dario , Magliulo Giuseppe , Iannella Giannicola , Didona Biagio , Mercuri Santo , Moliterni Elisa , Donati Michele , Ciofalo Andrea , Granata Guido , Ranuzzi Patricia , Falasca Vincenzo , Calvieri Stefano
Published: November 2017

Paraneoplastic pemphigus is a rare autoimmune skin disease that is always associated with a neoplasm. Usually, oral, skin, and mucosal lesions are the earliest manifestations shown by paraneoplastic pemphigus patients. The pathogenesis of paraneoplastic pemphigus is not yet completely understood, although some immunological aspects have been recently clarified. Because of its rarity, several diagnostic criteria have been proposed. Besides, several diagnostic procedures have been used for the diagnosis, including indirect immunofluorescence, direct immunofluorescence, and ELISA. We reviewed the most recent literature, searching on PubMed “paraneoplastic pemphigus”. We included also papers in French, German, and Spanish. We found 613 papers for “paraneoplastic pemphigus”. Among them, 169 were review papers. Because of its varying clinical features, paraneoplastic pemphigus still represents a challenge for clinicians. Furthermore, diagnosis and management of paraneoplastic pemphigus requires close collaboration between physicians, including dermatologist, oncologist, and otorhinolaryngologist.
Dietary Supplementation with Lactobacillus casei Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Liver Injury in a Porcine Model
Authors: Zhao Di , Wu Tao , Yi Dan , Wang Lei , Li Peng , Zhang Junmei , Hou Yongqing , Wu Guoyao
Published: November 2017

This study aims to determine whether Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) could relieve liver injury in piglets challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Piglets were randomly allocated into one of the three groups: control, LPS, and L. casei. The control and LPS groups were fed a corn- and soybean meal-based diet, whereas the L. casei group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 6 × 106 cfu/g L. casei. On Day 31 of the trial, piglets in the LPS and L. casei groups received intraperitoneal administration of LPS (100 µg/kg body weight), while the control group received the same volume of saline. Blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. Results showed that L. casei supplementation decreased the feed/gain ratio (p = 0.027) and diarrhea incidence (p < 0.001), and attenuated LPS-induced liver histomorphological abnormalities. Compared with the control group, LPS challenge dramatically increased glutamyl transpeptidase activity (p = 0.001) in plasma as well as the concentrations of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) (p = 0.048), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (p = 0.041), and Malondialdehyde (MDA) (p = 0.001) in the liver, while decreasing the hepatic SOD activity. LPS also increased (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels for IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4), Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in the liver. The adverse effects of LPS challenge were ameliorated by L. casei supplementation. In conclusion, dietary L. casei alleviates LPS-induced liver injury via reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing anti-oxidative capacity.
Ionic Substitutions in Non-Apatitic Calcium Phosphates
Authors: Laskus Aleksandra , Kolmas Joanna
Published: November 2017

Calcium phosphate materials (CaPs) are similar to inorganic part of human mineralized tissues (i.e., bone, enamel, and dentin). Owing to their high biocompatibility, CaPs, mainly hydroxyapatite (HA), have been investigated for their use in various medical applications. One of the most widely used ways to improve the biological and physicochemical properties of HA is ionic substitution with trace ions. Recent developments in bioceramics have already demonstrated that introducing foreign ions is also possible in other CaPs, such as tricalcium phosphates (amorphous as well as α and β crystalline forms) and brushite. The purpose of this paper is to review recent achievements in the field of non-apatitic CaPs substituted with various ions. Particular attention will be focused on tricalcium phosphates (TCP) and “additives” such as magnesium, zinc, strontium, and silicate ions, all of which have been widely investigated thanks to their important biological role. This review also highlights some of the potential biomedical applications of non-apatitic substituted CaPs.
Protein Kinase Targets in Breast Cancer
Authors: García-Aranda Marilina , Redondo Maximino
Published: November 2017

With 1.67 million new cases and 522,000 deaths in the year 2012, breast cancer is the most common type of diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer death in women around the world. Despite the success of screening programs and the development of adjuvant therapies, a significant percentage of breast cancer patients will suffer a metastatic disease that, to this day, remains incurable and justifies the research of new therapies to improve their life expectancy. Among the new therapies that have been developed in recent years, the emergence of targeted therapies has been a milestone in the fight against cancer. Over the past decade, many studies have shown a causal role of protein kinase dysregulations or mutations in different human diseases, including cancer. Along these lines, cancer research has demonstrated a key role of many protein kinases during human tumorigenesis and cancer progression, turning these molecules into valid candidates for new targeted therapies. The subsequent discovery and introduction in 2001 of the kinase inhibitor imatinib, as a targeted treatment for chronic myelogenous leukemia, revolutionized cancer genetic pathways research, and lead to the development of multiple small-molecule kinase inhibitors against various malignancies, including breast cancer. In this review, we analyze studies published to date about novel small-molecule kinase inhibitors and evaluate if they would be useful to develop new treatment strategies for breast cancer patients.
Obstacles to Brain Tumor Therapy: Key ABC Transporters
Authors: Wijaya Juwina , Fukuda Yu , Schuetz John D.
Published: November 2017

The delivery of cancer chemotherapy to treat brain tumors remains a challenge, in part, because of the inherent biological barrier, the blood–brain barrier. While its presence and role as a protector of the normal brain parenchyma has been acknowledged for decades, it is only recently that the important transporter components, expressed in the tightly knit capillary endothelial cells, have been deciphered. These transporters are ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and, so far, the major clinically important ones that functionally contribute to the blood–brain barrier are ABCG2 and ABCB1. A further limitation to cancer therapy of brain tumors or brain metastases is the blood–tumor barrier, where tumors erect a barrier of transporters that further impede drug entry. The expression and regulation of these two transporters at these barriers, as well as tumor derived alteration in expression and/or mutation, are likely obstacles to effective therapy.
Radial Basis Functional Model of Multi-Point Dieless Forming Process for Springback Reduction and Compensation
Authors: Abebe Misganaw , Yoon Jun-Seok , Kang Beom-Soo
Published: November 2017

Springback in multi-point dieless forming (MDF) is a common problem because of the small deformation and blank holder free boundary condition. Numerical simulations are widely used in sheet metal forming to predict the springback. However, the computational time in using the numerical tools is time costly to find the optimal process parameters value. This study proposes radial basis function (RBF) to replace the numerical simulation model by using statistical analyses that are based on a design of experiment (DOE). Punch holding time, blank thickness, and curvature radius are chosen as effective process parameters for determining the springback. The Latin hypercube DOE method facilitates statistical analyses and the extraction of a prediction model in the experimental process parameter domain. Finite element (FE) simulation model is conducted in the ABAQUS commercial software to generate the springback responses of the training and testing samples. The genetic algorithm is applied to find the optimal value for reducing and compensating the induced springback for the different blank thicknesses using the developed RBF prediction model. Finally, the RBF numerical result is verified by comparing with the FE simulation result of the optimal process parameters and both results show that the springback is almost negligible from the target shape.
Modeling and Simulation of a Machining Process Chain for the Precision Manufacture of Polar Microstructure
Authors: Zhao Chenyang , Cheung Chi , Liu Mingyu
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a functional microstructured surface, named Polar Microstructure. Polar microstructure is a three dimensional (3D) structured surface possessing a pattern of distribution of latitude and longitude micro-topographies with geometrical characteristics, which is similar to that in the Earth’s north or south pole. The spacing of its small surface features can achieve form accuracy at the micrometer level. Polar microstructure has great potential for applications in precision measurement of angle displacement based on the characteristics of its surface features. This paper presents the development of a machining process chain system that integrates single point diamond turning (SPDT) and diamond broaching together to fabricate polar microstructure. A framework of a machining process chain system is presented which is composed of input module, design module, simulation module, output module, and metrology module. After that, modeling of the machining process chain composed of SPDT and diamond broaching is built up. The model takes into consideration the initial surface topography of the workpiece. Simulations have been conducted to obtain the optimal machining parameters in each machining process. A series of experiments was conducted for the ultra-precision machining of various types of polar microstructures. The machining results show that the machining process chain system is technically feasible and effective in the precision manufacturing of polar microstructure. The experimental results agree well with the simulated results.
Melatonin Improves the Quality of Inferior Bovine Oocytes and Promoted Their Subsequent IVF Embryo Development: Mechanisms and Results
Authors: Yang Minghui , Tao Jingli , Chai Menglong , Wu Hao , Wang Jing , Li Guangdong , He Changjiu , Xie Lu , Ji Pengyun , Dai Yunping , Yang Liguo , Liu Guoshi
Published: November 2017

The inferior oocytes (IOs), which are not suitable for embryo development, occupy roughly one-third or more of the collected immature bovine oocytes. The IOs are usually discarded from the in vitro bovine embryo production process. Improving the quality of the inferior oocytes (IOs) and make them available in in vitro embryo production would have important biological, as well as commercial, value. This study was designed to investigate whether melatonin could improve the quality of IOs and make them usable in the in vitro maturation (IVM) and subsequent (in vitro fertilization) IVF embryo development. The results indicated that: the maturation rate of IOs and their subsequent IVF embryo developments were impaired compared to cumulus-oocyte complexes and melatonin treatment significantly improved the quality of IOs, as well as their IVF and embryo developments. The potential mechanisms are that: (1) melatonin reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhanced glutathione (GSH) levels in the IOs, thereby protecting them from oxidative stress; (2) melatonin improved mitochondrial normal distribution and function to increase ATP level in IOs; and (3) melatonin upregulated the expression of ATPase 6, BMP-15, GDF-9, SOD-1, Gpx-4, and Bcl-2, which are critical genes for oocyte maturation and embryo development and downregulated apoptotic gene expression of caspase-3.
A Novel Strategy for Quantitative Analysis of Major Ginsenosides in Panacis Japonici Rhizoma with a Standardized Reference Fraction
Authors: Meng Fan-Cheng , Wu Qiu-Shuang , Wang Ruibing , Li Shao-Ping , Lin Li-Gen , Chen Ping , Zhang Qing-Wen
Published: November 2017

Panacis Japonici Rhizoma (Zhu-Jie-Shen in Chinese), the root of P. japonicus C.A. Mey., is commonly used in traditional Chinese Medicine. Saponins are the major bioactive compounds in this herb. The similarity of polarity and structure of the natural products in herb caused the difficulty of purification and resulted in the shortage and high cost of the reference compounds, which has greatly hindered efforts toward quantification in quality control. A novel strategy using a standardized reference fraction for qualification of the major saponins in Panacis Japonici Rhizoma was proposed to easily and effectively control the quality of PJR. The strategy is feasible and reliable, and the methodology of the developed approach is also validated. The standardized reference fraction was used for quantification, which might solve the shortage of the pure reference compounds in the quality control of herbal medicines.
Metabolites Produced by an Endophytic Phomopsis sp. and Their Anti-TMV Activity
Authors: Tan Qing-Wei , Fang Pei-Hua , Ni Jian-Cheng , Gao Fangluan , Chen Qi-Jian
Published: November 2017

The fermentation and isolation of metabolites produced by an endophytic fungus, which was identified as Phomopsis sp. FJBR-11, based on phylogenetic analysis, led to the identification of six compounds, including dothiorelones A–C, and H, and cytosporones C and U. Among these compounds, cytosporone U exhibited potent inhibitory activity against Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Moreover, the crude and a purified exopolysaccharide were proved to possess strong inhibitory effects against the virus infection.
One-Step Carbon Coating and Polyacrylamide Functionalization of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Enhancing Magnetic Adsorptive-Remediation of Heavy Metals
Authors: Habila Mohamed , ALOthman Zeid , El-Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Labis Joselito Puzon , Khan Aslam , Al-Marghany Adel , Elafifi Hussein Elsayed
Published: November 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles are used in adsorptive removal of heavy metals from polluted wastewater. However, their poor stability in an acidic medium necessitates their protection with a coating layer. Coating magnetic nanoparticles with carbon showed proper protection but the heavy metal removal efficiency was slightly weak. However, to boost the removal efficiencies of surface functionalization, polyacrylamide was applied to carbon-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles. In this paper, to facilitate the synthesis process, one-step carbon coating and polyacrylamide functionalization were conducted using the hydrothermal technique with the aim of enhancing the adsorptive removal capacity of Fe3O4 nanoparticles towards some heavy metals such as Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), and Cd(II). The results showed that the one-step process succeeded in developing a carbon coating layer and polyacrylamide functionality on Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The stability of the magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles as an adsorbent in an acidic medium was improved due to its resistance to the dissolution that was gained during carbon coating and surface functionalization with polyacrylamide. The adsorptive removal process was investigated in relation to various parameters such as pH, time of contact, metal ion concentrations, adsorbent dose, and temperature. The polyacrylamide functionalized Fe3O4 showed an improvement in the adsorption capacity as compared with the unfunctionalized one. The conditions for superior adsorption were obtained at pH 6; time of contact, 90 min; metal solution concentration, 200 mg/L; adsorbent dose, 0.3 g/L. The modeling of the adsorption data was found to be consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, which suggests a fast adsorption process. However, the equilibrium data modeling was consistent with both the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. Furthermore, the thermodynamic parameters of the adsorptive removal process, including ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°, indicated a spontaneous and endothermic sorption process. The developed adsorbent can be utilized further for industrial-based applications.
Annotation of Peptide Structures Using SMILES and Other Chemical Codes–Practical Solutions
Authors: Minkiewicz Piotr , Iwaniak Anna , Darewicz Małgorzata
Published: November 2017

Contemporary peptide science exploits methods and tools of bioinformatics, and cheminformatics. These approaches use different languages to describe peptide structures—amino acid sequences and chemical codes (especially SMILES), respectively. The latter may be applied, e.g., in comparative studies involving structures and properties of peptides and peptidomimetics. Progress in peptide science “in silico” may be achieved via better communication between biologists and chemists, involving the translation of peptide representation from amino acid sequence into SMILES code. Recent recommendations concerning good practice in chemical information include careful verification of data and their annotation. This publication discusses the generation of SMILES representations of peptides using existing software. Construction of peptide structures containing unnatural and modified amino acids (with special attention paid on glycosylated peptides) is also included. Special attention is paid to the detection and correction of typical errors occurring in SMILES representations of peptides and their correction using molecular editors. Brief recommendations for training of staff working on peptide annotations, are discussed as well.
Investigating Exchange Bias and Coercivity in Fe3O4–γ-Fe2O3 Core–Shell Nanoparticles of Fixed Core Diameter and Variable Shell Thicknesses
Authors: Obaidat Ihab , Nayek Chiranjib , Manna Kaustuv , Bhattacharjee Gourab , Al-Omari Imaddin , Gismelseed Abbasher
Published: November 2017

We have carried out extensive measurements on novel Fe3O4–γ-Fe2O3 core–shell nanoparticles of nearly similar core diameter (8 nm) and of various shell thicknesses of 1 nm (sample S1), 3 nm (sample S2), and 5 nm (sample S3). The structure and morphology of the samples were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The direct current (DC) magnetic measurements were carried out using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). Exchange bias and coercivity were investigated at several temperatures where the applied field was varied between 3 and −3 T. Several key results are obtained, such as: (a) the complete absence of exchange bias effect in sample S3; (b) the occurrence of nonconventional exchange bias effect in samples S2 and S1; (c) the sign-change of exchange bias field in sample S2; (d) the monotonic increase of coercivity with temperature above 100 K in all samples; (e) the existence of a critical temperature (100 K) at which the coercivity is minimum; (f) the surprising suppression of coercivity upon field-cooling; and (g) the observation of coercivity at all temperatures, even at 300 K. The results are discussed and attributed to the existence of spin glass clusters at the core–shell interface.