bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Air Backwash Efficiency on Organic Fouling of UF Membranes Applied to Shellfish Hatchery Effluents
Authors: Cordier Clémence , Stavrakakis Christophe , Sauvade Patrick , Coelho Franz , Moulin Philippe
Published: July 2018

Among all the techniques studied to overcome fouling generated in dead-end filtration, the injection of air during backwashes proved to be the most effective. Indeed, shear stress engendered by the two-phase flow enhanced particle removal on membrane surface. This work aims to study the injection of air to drain the membranes before backwash. Firstly, the efficiency of this backwash procedure was evaluated during the ultrafiltration of seawater on a semi industrial pilot plant using different operating conditions. Then, the treatment of seawater, doped with oyster gametes to simulate the filtration of shellfish hatchery effluents, was performed to confirm the hydraulic performance of the air backwash. Indeed, the release of gametes, expulsed by exotic bivalves in the natural environment, could be a risk for the biodiversity preservation. The impact of air backwash on the integrity of oocytes and spermatozoa was identified using flow cytometry and microscopic analyses. When oyster gametes were added, their retention by ultrafiltration was validated. The impact of air backwash on these species viability was a significant information point for the implementation of this process on shellfish production farms.
Energy Dissipation Characteristics and Dynamic Modeling of the Coated Damping Structure for Metal Rubber of Bellows
Authors: Wu Kenan , Bai Hongbai , Xue Xin , Li Tuo , Li Min
Published: July 2018

A novel coated damping structure for metal rubber (MR) of bellows is designed based on large-size metal rubber sheets. This structure is dynamically tested in the bending direction at normal temperature. According to the test results, a model of the nonlinear elastic restoring force is set up, which describes the dynamic characteristics of the coated damping structure for metal rubber of bellows, and identifies the parameters of the model. The results show that the coated damping structure for metal rubber of bellows has a strong damping energy dissipation ability, its dynamic vibration characteristics are related to the vibration amplitude and frequency, and it is a complex nonlinear hysteretic system with multiple damping components. After identification of the parameters, the model of nonlinear elastic restoring force shows highly accurate results.
Effects of Nb and W Additions on the Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Novel γ/γ’ Co-V-Ti-Based Superalloys
Authors: Liu Xingjun , Pan Yunwei , Chen Yuechao , Han Jiajia , Yang Shuiyuan , Ruan Jingjing , Wang Cuiping , Yang Yuansheng , Li Yingju
Published: July 2018

Microstructures, elemental partition behavior, phase stabilities and mechanical properties of Nb- and W-containing Co-V-Ti-based superalloys were investigated. Elemental partition coefficients (KX = Cγ’/Cγ) of Nb and W in Co-V-Ti-based superalloys are 2.07 and 1.10, respectively. The γ’ solvus temperatures are determined as 1023 °C, 1055 °C and 1035 °C in Co-12V-4Ti, Co-10V-4Ti-2Nb and Co-10V-4Ti-2W alloys, which are higher than those of Co-9Al-9W alloy (1000 °C). The mass densities of quaternary Co-10V-4Ti-2Nb and Co-10V-4Ti-2W alloys are about 8.31 and 8.50 g·cm−3, respectively, which are 15% lower than Co-Al-W-based superalloys (9.8 g·cm−3). All examined alloys exhibit an anomalous positive dependence on temperature rising from 600 to 750 °C. Strengths of all examined alloys are higher than those of MarM509 (traditional Cobalt-based superalloy) and Co-9Al-9W at all temperatures that we investigated. The maximum flow stress of Co-V-Ti-Nb alloy is about 638 MPa at 750 °C while that of Co-V-Ti-W alloy is about 588 MPa at 700 °C.
Tuning the Morphology of ZnO Nanostructures with the Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis Process
Authors: Emil Elif , Alkan Gözde , Gurmen Sebahattin , Rudolf Rebeka , Jenko Darja , Friedrich Bernd
Published: July 2018

Nanostructured zinc oxide (ZnO) particles were synthesized by the one step Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis (USP) process from nitrate salt solution (Zn(NO3)2·6H2O). Various influential parameters, from Zn(NO3)2·6H2O concentrations (0.01875–0.0375 M) in the initial solution, carrier gas (N2) flow rates (0.5–0.75 L/min) to reaction temperature (400–800 °C), were tested to investigate their role on the final ZnO particles’ morphology. For this purpose, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) and (Selected Area Electron Diffraction) SAED techniques were used to gain insight into how the ZnO morphology is dependent on the USP process. It was revealed that, by certain parameter selection, different ZnO morphology could be achieved, from spherical to sphere-like structures assembled by interwoven nanoplate and nanoplate ZnO particles. Further, a more detailed crystallographic investigation was performed by XRD and Williamson-Hall (W-H) analysis on the ZnO with unique and non-typical planar morphology that was not reported before by USP synthesis. Moreover, for the first time, a flexible USP formation model was proposed, ending up in various ZnO morphologies rather than only ideal spheres, which is highly promising to target a wide application area.
Topic Review: Application of Raman Spectroscopy Characterization in Micro/Nano-Machining
Authors: Xu Zongwei , He Zhongdu , Song Ying , Fu Xiu , Rommel Mathias , Luo Xichun , Hartmaier Alexander , Zhang Junjie , Fang Fengzhou
Published: July 2018

The defects and subsurface damages induced by crystal growth and micro/nano-machining have a significant impact on the functional performance of machined products. Raman spectroscopy is an efficient, powerful, and non-destructive testing method to characterize these defects and subsurface damages. This paper aims to review the fundamentals and applications of Raman spectroscopy on the characterization of defects and subsurface damages in micro/nano-machining. Firstly, the principle and several critical parameters (such as penetration depth, laser spot size, and so on) involved in the Raman characterization are introduced. Then, the mechanism of Raman spectroscopy for detection of defects and subsurface damages is discussed. The Raman spectroscopy characterization of semiconductor materials’ stacking faults, phase transformation, and residual stress in micro/nano-machining is discussed in detail. Identification and characterization of phase transformation and stacking faults for Si and SiC is feasible using the information of new Raman bands. Based on the Raman band position shift and Raman intensity ratio, Raman spectroscopy can be used to quantitatively calculate the residual stress and the thickness of the subsurface damage layer of semiconductor materials. The Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (TERS) technique is helpful to dramatically enhance the Raman scattering signal at weak damages and it is considered as a promising research field.
Poly(ionic liquid)s Based Brush Type Nanomotor
Authors: Men Yongjun , Tu Yingfeng , Li Wei , Peng Fei , Wilson Daniela A.
Published: July 2018

A brush type nanomotor was fabricated via assembly assistant polymerization of poly(ionic liquid) and surface grafting polymerization. The method for large-scale fabrication of brush nanomotors with soft surfaces is described. These soft locomotive particles are based on core-shell brush nanoparticles assembled from poly(ionic liquid) as core and thermoresponsive PNIPAM as brush shells on which platinum nanoparticle (PtNP) were grown in situ. The particles show non-Brownian motion in H2O2 solution.
Micro Motion Amplifiers for Compact Out-of-Plane Actuation
Authors: Xie Xin , Bigdeli Karimi Majid , Liu Sanwei , Myanganbayar Battushig , Livermore Carol
Published: July 2018

Small-scale, out-of-plane actuators can enable tactile interfaces; however, achieving sufficient actuator force and displacement can require larger actuators. In this work, 2-mm2 out-of-plane microactuators were created, and were demonstrated to output up to 6.3 µm of displacement and 16 mN of blocking force at 170 V. The actuators converted in-plane force and displacement from a piezoelectric extensional actuator into out-of-plane force and displacement using robust, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-enabled, half-scissor amplifiers. The microscissors employed two layers of lithographically patterned SU-8 epoxy microstructures, laminated with a thin film of structural polyimide and adhesive to form compact flexural hinges that enabled the actuators’ small area. The self-aligned manufacture minimized assembly error and fabrication complexity. The scissor design dominated the actuators’ performance, and the effects of varying scissor angle, flexure thickness, and adhesive type were characterized to optimize the actuators’ output. Reducing the microscissor angle yielded the highest actuator performance, as it maximized the amplification of the half-scissor’s displacement and minimized scissor deformation under externally applied loads. The actuators’ simultaneously large displacements and blocking forces for their size were quantified by a high displacement-blocking force product per unit area of up to 50 mN·µm/mm2. For a linear force–displacement relationship, this corresponds to a work done per unit area of 25 mN·µm/mm2.
Akkermansia muciniphila in the Human Gastrointestinal Tract: When, Where, and How?
Authors: Geerlings Sharon Y. , Kostopoulos Ioannis , De Vos Willem M. , Belzer Clara
Published: July 2018

Akkermansia muciniphila is a mucin-degrading bacterium of the phylum Verrucomicrobia. Its abundance in the human intestinal tract is inversely correlated to several disease states. A. muciniphila resides in the mucus layer of the large intestine, where it is involved in maintaining intestinal integrity. We explore the presence of Akkermansia-like spp. based on its 16S rRNA sequence and metagenomic signatures in the human body so as to understand its colonization pattern in time and space. A. muciniphila signatures were detected in colonic samples as early as a few weeks after birth and likely could be maintained throughout life. The sites where Akkermansia-like sequences (including Verrucomicrobia phylum and/or Akkermansia spp. sequences found in the literature) were detected apart from the colon included human milk, the oral cavity, the pancreas, the biliary system, the small intestine, and the appendix. The function of Akkermansia-like spp. in these sites may differ from that in the mucosal layer of the colon. A. muciniphila present in the appendix or in human milk could play a role in the re-colonization of the colon or breast-fed infants, respectively. In conclusion, even though A. muciniphila is most abundantly present in the colon, the presence of Akkermansia-like spp. along the digestive tract indicates that this bacterium might have more functions than those currently known.
Identification and Growth Inhibitory Activity of the Chemical Constituents from Imperata Cylindrica Aerial Part Ethyl Acetate Extract
Authors: Wang Yan , Shen James Zheng , Chan Yuk Wah , Ho Wing Shing
Published: July 2018

Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch. (IMP) aerial part ethyl acetate extract has anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and pro-oxidative effects towards colorectal cancer in vitro. The chemical constituents of IMP aerial part ethyl acetate extract were isolated using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and identified with tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) in combination with ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry and 400 MHz NMR. The growth inhibitory effects of each identified component on BT-549 (breast) and HT-29 (colon) cancer cell lines were evaluated after 48/72 h treatment by MTT assay. Four isolated compounds were identified as trans-p-Coumaric acid (1); 2-Methoxyestrone (2); 11, 16-Dihydroxypregn-4-ene-3, 20-dione (3); and Tricin (4). Compounds (2), (3), and (4) exhibited considerable growth inhibitory activities against BT-549 and HT-29 cancer cell lines. Compounds (2), (3), and (4) are potential candidates for novel anti-cancer agents against breast and colorectal cancers.
Synthesis of a Reactive Oxygen Species-Responsive Doxorubicin Derivative
Authors: Delehanty James B. , Das Shivani , Goldberg Efram , Sangtani Ajmeeta , Knight D. Andrew
Published: July 2018

A heterobifunctional reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive linker for directed drug assembly onto and delivery from a quantum dot (QD) nanoparticle carrier was synthesized and coupled to doxorubicin using N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC)/sulfo–NHS coupling. The doxorubicin conjugate was characterized using 1H NMR and LC-MS and subsequently reacted under conditions of ROS formation (Cu2+/H2O2) resulting in successful and rapid thioacetal oxidative cleavage, which was monitored using 1H NMR.
Phytochemical Analysis of Podospermum and Scorzonera n-Hexane Extracts and the HPLC Quantitation of Triterpenes
Authors: Bahadır-Acıkara Özlem , Özbilgin Serkan , Saltan-İşcan Gülcin , Dall’Acqua Stefano , Rjašková Veronika , Özgökçe Fevzi , Suchý Václav , Šmejkal Karel
Published: July 2018

Previously tested n-hexane extracts of the Scorzonera latifolia showed promising bioactivity in vivo. Because triterpenes could account for this activity, n-hexane extracts were analyzed by HPLC to identify and quantify the triterpenes as the most abundant constituents. Other Scorzonera and Podospermum species, potentially containing triterpenic aglycones, were included in the study. An HPLC method for simultaneous determination of triterpene aglycones was therefore developed for analysis of Podospermum and Scorzonera species. n-Hexane extracts of root and aerial parts of S. latifolia, ten other Scorzonera species and two Podospermum species were studied to compare the content of triterpenes. HPLC was used for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of α-amyrin, lupeol, lupeol acetate, taraxasteryl acetate, 3-β-hydroxy-fern-7-en-6-one acetate, urs-12-en-11-one-3-acetyl, 3-β-hydroxy-fern-8-en-7-one acetate, and olean-12-en-11-one-3-acetyl. Limits of detection and quantification were determined for each compound. HPLC fingerprinting of n-hexane extracts of Podospermum and Scorzonera species revealed relatively large amounts of triterpenes in a majority of investigated taxa. Lupeol, lupeol acetate, and taraxasteryl acetate were found in a majority of the species, except S. acuminata. The presence of α-amyrin, 3β-hydroxy-fern-7-en-6-one-acetate, urs-12-en-11-one-3-acetyl, 3β-hydroxy-fern-8-en-7-one-acetate, and olean-12-en-11-one-3-acetyl was detected in varying amounts. The triterpene content could correlate with the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Scorzonera, which was previously observed and Scorzonera species that have been determined to contain triterpenes in large amounts and have not yet been tested for their analgesic activity should be tested for their potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential. The presented HPLC method can be used for analysis of triterpene aglycones, for example dedicated to chemosystematic studies of the Scorzonerinae.
The Use of Juçara (Euterpe edulis Mart.) Supplementation for Suppression of NF-κB Pathway in the Hypothalamus after High-Fat Diet in Wistar Rats
Authors: Santamarina Aline Boveto , Jamar Giovana , Mennitti Laís Vales , De Rosso Veridiana Vera , Cesar Helena Cassia , Oyama Lila Missae , Pisani Luciana Pellegrini
Published: July 2018

Obesity is associated with modern diets that are rich in saturated fatty acids. These dietary patterns are linked to low-grade proinflammatory mechanisms, such as the toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway rapidly activated through high-fat diets. Juçara is a berry rich in anthocyanins and unsaturated fatty acids, which prevents obesity and associated comorbidities. We evaluated the effect of different doses of freeze-dried juçara pulp on NF-κB pathway after the consumption of short-term high-fat diet. Male Wistar rats with ad libitum access to food and water were divided into four groups: Control diet (C), high-fat diet (HFC), high-fat diet with 0.25% juçara (HFJ 0.25%), and high-fat diet with 0.5% juçara (HFJ 0.5%). Energy intake and body weight gain were increased in HFC and HFJ 0.5% groups compared to C group. The hypothalamus weight reduced in the HFC group compared to C and HFJ 0.25% groups. Cytokines, MYD88, TRAF6, and pNF-κBp50 levels in the hypothalamus, serum triacylglycerol, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and free fatty acid levels were improved in the HFJ 0.25% group. In summary, the HFJ 0.25% group had better protective effects than those in the HFJ 0.5%. Therefore, 0.25% juçara can be used to protect against central inflammation through the high-fat diet-induced NF-κB pathway.
Insights into Tissue-specific Specialized Metabolism in Tieguanyin Tea Cultivar by Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Chen Si , Lin Jun , Liu Huihui , Gong Zhihong , Wang Xiaxia , Li Meihong , Aharoni Asaph , Yang Zhenbiao , Yu Xiaomin
Published: July 2018

Tea plants produce extremely diverse and abundant specialized metabolites, the types and levels of which are developmentally and environmentally regulated. However, little is known about how developmental cues affect the synthesis of many of these molecules. In this study, we conducted a comparative profiling of specialized metabolites from six different tissues in a premium oolong tea cultivar, Tieguanyin, which is gaining worldwide popularity due to its uniquely rich flavors and health benefits. UPLC-QTOF MS combined with multivariate analyses tentatively identified 68 metabolites belonging to 11 metabolite classes, which exhibited sharp variations among tissues. Several metabolite classes, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and hydroxycinnamic acid amides were detected predominantly in certain plant tissues. In particular, tricoumaroyl spermidine and dicoumaroyl putrescine were discovered as unique tea flower metabolites. This study offers novel insights into tissue-specific specialized metabolism in Tieguanyin, which provides a good reference point to explore gene-metabolite relationships in this cultivar.
Special Issue: Kinase inhibitors
Authors: Koch Pierre , Laufer Stefan
Published: July 2018

n/a
Melatonin in Heart Failure: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy?
Authors: Nduhirabandi Frederic , Maarman Gerald J.
Published: July 2018

Heart failure is a multifactorial clinical syndrome characterized by the inability of the heart to pump sufficient blood to the body. Despite recent advances in medical management, poor outcomes in patients with heart failure remain very high. This highlights a need for novel paradigms for effective, preventive and curative strategies. Substantial evidence supports the importance of endogenous melatonin in cardiovascular health and the benefits of melatonin supplementation in various cardiac pathologies and cardiometabolic disorders. Melatonin plays a crucial role in major pathological processes associated with heart failure including ischemic injury, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cardiac remodeling. In this review, available evidence for the role of melatonin in heart failure is discussed. Current challenges and possible limitations of using melatonin in heart failure are also addressed. While few clinical studies have investigated the role of melatonin in the context of heart failure, current findings from experimental studies support the potential use of melatonin as preventive and adjunctive curative therapy in heart failure.
A Novel AgNPs/Sericin/Agar Film with Enhanced Mechanical Property and Antibacterial Capability
Authors: Wang Yejing , Cai Rui , Tao Gang , Wang Peng , Zuo Hua , Zhao Ping , Umar Ahmad , He Huawei
Published: July 2018

Silk sericin is a protein from a silkworm’s cocoon. It has good biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, bioactivity, and biodegradability. However, sericin could not be used in biomedical materials directly because of its frangible characteristic. To develop multifunctional sericin-based materials for biomedical purposes, we prepared a sericin/agar (SS/agar) composite film through the blending of sericin and agar and repetitive freeze-thawing. Then, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in situ on the surface of the composite film to endow it with antibacterial activity. Water contact angle, swelling and losing ratio, and mechanical properties analysis indicated that the composite film had excellent mechanical property, hydrophilicity, hygroscopicity, and stability. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed the successful modification of AgNPs on the composite film. X-ray powder diffraction showed the face-centered cubic structures of the AgNPs. This AgNPs modified composite film exhibited an excellent antibacterial capability against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Our study develops a novel AgNPs/sericin/agar composite film with enhanced mechanical performance and an antimicrobial property for potential biomedical applications.
Seasonal Variation and Possible Biosynthetic Pathway of Ginsenosides in Korean Ginseng Panax ginseng Meyer
Authors: Kim Dongmin , Kim Mihyang , Raña Gem Stephen , Han Jaehong
Published: July 2018

Whereas Korean ginseng, Panax ginseng Meyer, is harvested in the fall, the variation of ginsenoside content in field-grown ginseng across seasonal development has never been investigated in Korea. Thus, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) analysis of nine major ginsenosides, including ginsenoside Rg1, Re, Rf, Rg2, Rb1, Rc, Rb2, Rd, and Ro, in the roots of five-year-old P. ginseng cultivated in Bongwha, Korea in 2017 was performed. The total ginsenoside content changed as many as three times throughout the year, ranging from 1.37 ± 0.02 (dry wt %) in January to 4.26 ± 0.03% in May. Total ginsenoside content in the harvest season was 2.49 ± 0.03%. Seasonal variations of panaxadiol-type ginsenosides (PPD) and panaxatriol-type ginsenosides (PPT) were found to be similar, but more PPD was always measured. However, the seasonal variation of oleanolic acid-type ginsenoside, Ro, was different from that of PPD and PPT, and the highest Ro content was observed in May. The ratio of PPD/PPT, as well as other representative ginsenosides, was compared throughout the year. Moreover, the percent composition of certain ginsenosides in both PPD and PPT types was found to be in a complementary relationship each other, which possibly reflected the biosynthetic pathway of the related ginsenosides. This finding would not only provide scientific support for the production and quality control of the value-added ginseng products, but also facilitate the elucidation of the ginsenoside biosynthetic pathway.
Delivery of miRNA-Targeted Oligonucleotides in the Rat Striatum by Magnetofection with Neuromag®
Authors: Titze de Almeida Simoneide Souza , Horst Camila Hillesheim , Soto-Sánchez Cristina , Fernandez Eduardo , Titze de Almeida Ricardo
Published: July 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression at posttranscriptional level by triggering RNA interference. In such a sense, aberrant expressions of miRNAs play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many disorders, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Controlling the level of specific miRNAs in the brain is thus a promising therapeutic strategy for neuroprotection. A fundamental need for miRNA regulation (either replacing or inhibition) is a carrier capable of delivering oligonucleotides into brain cells. This study aimed to examine a polymeric magnetic particle, Neuromag®, for delivery of synthetic miRNA inhibitors in the rat central nervous system. We injected the miRNA inhibitor complexed with Neuromag® into the lateral ventricles next to the striatum, by stereotaxic surgery. Neuromag efficiently delivered oligonucleotides in the striatum and septum areas, as shown by microscopy imaging of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled oligos in astrocytes and neurons. Transfected oligos showed efficacy concerning miRNA inhibition. Neuromag®-structured miR-134 antimiR (0.36 nmol) caused a significant 0.35 fold decrease of striatal miR-134, as revealed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). In conclusion, the polymeric magnetic particle Neuromag® efficiently delivered functional miRNA inhibitors in brain regions surrounding lateral ventricles, particularly the striatum. This delivery system holds potential as a promising miRNA-based disease-modifying drug and merits further pre-clinical studies using animal models of PD.
Strategy for Screening of Antioxidant Compounds from Two Ulmaceae Species Based on Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Won Joong Yeun , Son Su Young , Lee Sunmin , Singh Digar , Lee Sarah , Lee Jong Seok , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: July 2018

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based untargeted metabolomics implies that annotated metabolites can serve as potential markers of the associated bioactivities of plant extracts. Firstly, we selected Aphananthe aspera and Zelkova serrata (Family: Ulmaceae) from 16 Korean plant species based on their distinct principal component analysis (PCA) patterns in LC-MS datasets and antioxidant activity assays. Further, we chose 40% solid-phase extraction (SPE) extracts of the two species displaying the highest antioxidant activities coupled with distinct PCA patterns. Examining the metabolite compositions of the 40% SPE extracts, we observed relatively higher abundances of quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin O-glucosides for A. aspera, whereas quercetin, isorhamnetin O-glucuronides, and procyanidin dimer were relatively higher in Z. serrata. These metabolites were clearly distinguished in pathway map and displayed strong positive correlations with antioxidant activity. Further, we performed preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (prep-HPLC) analysis coupled with the 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay to validate their functional correlations. As a result, quercetin O-sophoroside was determined as the main antioxidant in A. aspera, while isorhamnetin O-glucuronide and procyanidin dimer were the primary antioxidants in Z. serrata. The current study suggests that the LC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics strategy can be used to illuminate subtle metabolic disparities as well as compounds associated with bioactivities.
Preparation and Application of Standardized Typical Volatile Components Fraction from Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) by Supercritical Fluid Extraction and Step Molecular Distillation
Authors: Lv Guang-Ping , Hu De-Jun , Zhou Yan-Qing , Zhang Qing-Wen , Zhao Jing , Li Shao-Ping
Published: July 2018

A green and reliable method using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and molecular distillation (MD) was optimized for the separation and purification of standardized typical volatile components fraction (STVCF) from turmeric to solve the shortage of reference compounds in quality control (QC) of volatile components. A high quality essential oil with 76.0% typical components of turmeric was extracted by SFE. A sequential distillation strategy was performed by MD. The total recovery and purity of prepared STVCF were 97.3% and 90.3%, respectively. Additionally, a strategy, i.e., STVCF-based qualification and quantitative evaluation of major bioactive analytes by multiple calibrated components, was proposed to easily and effectively control the quality of turmeric. Compared with the individual calibration curve method, the STVCF-based quantification method was demonstrated to be credible and was effectively adapted for solving the shortage of reference volatile compounds and improving the QC of typical volatile components in turmeric, especially its functional products.
Stereoselective and Simultaneous Analysis of Ginsenosides from Ginseng Berry Extract in Rat Plasma by UPLC-MS/MS: Application to a Pharmacokinetic Study of Ginseng Berry Extract
Authors: Han Seong Yon , Bae Min Goo , Choi Young Hee
Published: July 2018

The role of ginseng berry extract (GBE) has been attributed to its anti-hyperglycemic effect in humans. However, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of GBE constitutes after oral GBE administration have not been established yet. In this study, stereoselective and simultaneous analytical methods for 10 ginsenosides (ginsenoside Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rg1, S-Rg2, R-Rg2, S-Rg3, and R-Rg3) were developed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography, coupled with electrospray ionization triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), for the pharmacokinetic study of GBE. Furthermore, the pharmacokinetic profiles of 10 ginsenosides after oral GBE were evaluated in rats. All analytes were detected with a linear concentration range of 0.01–10 µg/mL. Lower limits of detection (LLOD) and quantification (LLOQ) were 0.003 and 0.01 µg/mL, respectively, for all 10 ginsenosides. This established method was adequately validated in linearity, sensitivity, intra- and inter-day precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. Relative standard deviations for all intra- and inter-precision of the 10 ginsenosides were below 11.5% and accuracies were 85.3–111%, which were sufficient to evaluate the pharmacokinetic study of oral GBE in rats. We propose that Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rg1, S-Rg2, R-Rg2 and/or S-Rg3 were appropriate pharmacokinetic markers of systemic exposure following oral GBE administration.
Search of Neuroprotective Polyphenols Using the “Overlay” Isolation Method
Authors: Sakagami Hiroshi , Shi Haixia , Bandow Kenjiro , Tomomura Mineko , Tomomura Akito , Horiuchi Misaki , Fujisawa Tomohiro , Oizumi Takaaki
Published: July 2018

Previous studies of the neuroprotective activity of polyphenols have used ununiform culture systems, making it difficult to compare their neuroprotective potency. We have established a new and simple method for preparing differentiated PC12 cells by removing the toxic coating step. Cells were induced to differentiate with the nerve growth factor (NGF) in a serum-free medium, without a medium change, but with a one-time overlay supplementation of NGF. The optimal inoculation density of the cells was 6–12 × 103 cells/cm2, and the presence of serum inhibited the differentiation. Neuroprotective activity could be quantified by the specific index (SI) value, that is, the ratio of the 50% cytotoxic concentration to the 50% effective concentration. Alkaline extract from the leaves of Sasa senanensis Rehder (SE), having had hormetic growth stimulation, showed the highest SI value, followed by epigallocatechin gallate. The SI value of curcumin and resveratrol was much lower. This simple overly method, that can prepare massive differentiated neuronal cells, may be applicable for the study of the differentiation-associated changes in intracellular metabolites, and the interaction between neuronal cells and physiological factors.
Reversal Effect of Oxypeucedanin on P-glycoprotein-mediated Drug Transport
Authors: Dong Wei , Liao Zhen-Gen , Zhao Guo-Wei , Guan Xue-Jing , Zhang Jing , Liang Xin-Li , Yang Ming
Published: July 2018

P-glycoprotein affects the transport of numerous drugs including chemotherapeutic drugs vincristine sulfate (VCR) and docetaxel (DTX), and is one of the main causes for multidrug resistance. Our previous studies have shown that oxypeucedanin (OPD) can enhance the intestinal transit of puerarin and VCR. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. This study investigated the potential mechanism by which OPD improves P-gp-mediated drug transport. Molecular docking was performed to predict the binding force between OPD and P-gp and the contribution of OPD on P-gp activity. We observed the effect of OPD on the transport of VCR in MDCK-MDR1 cell monolayer and also measured the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters of DTX in the presence and absence of OPD by LC-MS/MS. Moreover, we further investigated the reversal mechanism of OPD on P-gp-mediated drug transport by determining the intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine-123 (Rh123) and P-gp ATPase activity as well as protein expression and mRNA level of P-gp. Our molecular docking results revealed that the binding force between OPD and P-gp was much lower than that between P-gp and verapamil (a P-gp substrate). The transport study in vitro indicated that OPD increased the flux of VCR across MDCK-MDR1 cell monolayer. The in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters data showed OPD increased the absorption of DTX. OPD activated P-gp ATPase activity and enhanced intracellular accumulation of Rh123 in MDCK-MDR1 cells. Western blotting and qRT-PCR outcomes indicated that OPD suppressed P-gp protein expression as well as downregulated P-gp mRNA level. Thus, OPD reverse P-gp-mediated drug transport via inhibition of P-gp activity and P-gp protein expression as well as downregulation of P-gp mRNA level. Our results suggest that OPD could reverse P-gp-mediated drug resistance in tumor cells.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Conversion Efficiency of CVD Graphene with Reduced Grain Sizes
Authors: Lim Gyumin , Kihm Kenneth David , Kim Hong Goo , Lee Woorim , Lee Woomin , Pyun Kyung Rok , Cheon Sosan , Lee Phillip , Min Jin Young , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: July 2018

The grain size of CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) graphene was controlled by changing the precursor gas flow rates, operation temperature, and chamber pressure. Graphene of average grain sizes of 4.1 µm, 2.2 µm, and 0.5 µm was synthesized in high quality and full coverage. The possibility to tailor the thermoelectric conversion characteristics of graphene has been exhibited by examining the grain size effect on the three elementary thermal and electrical properties of σ, S, and k. Electrical conductivity (σ) and Seebeck coefficients (S) were measured in a vacuum for supported graphene on SiO2/Si FET (Field Effect Transistor) substrates so that the charge carrier density could be changed by applying a gate voltage (VG). Mobility (µ) values of 529, 459, and 314 cm2/V·s for holes and 1042, 745, and 490 cm2/V·s for electrons for the three grain sizes of 4.1 µm, 2.2 µm, and 0.5 µm, respectively, were obtained from the slopes of the measured σ vs. VG graphs. The power factor (PF), the electrical portion of the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT), decreased by about one half as the grain size was decreased, while the thermal conductivity (k) decreased by one quarter for the same grain decrease. Finally, the resulting ZT increased more than two times when the grain size was reduced from 4.1 µm to 0.5 µm.
Single-Step Direct Hydrothermal Growth of NiMoO4 Nanostructured Thin Film on Stainless Steel for Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Kannan V. , Kim Hyun-Jung , Park Hyun-Chang , Kim Hyun-Seok
Published: July 2018

We report a facile and direct growth of NiMoO4 nanostructures on a nonreactive stainless steel substrate using a single-step hydrothermal method and investigated hydrothermal growth duration effects on morphology and electrochemical characteristics. The highest specific capacitances of 341, 619, and 281 F/g were observed for NiMoO4 with 9, 18, and 27 h growth, respectively, at 1 A/g. Thus, grown samples preserved almost 59% of maximum specific capacitance at a high current density of 10 A/g. All samples exhibited a respectable cycling stability over 3000 charge-discharge operations. NiMoO4 grown for 18 h exhibited 7200 W/kg peak power density at 14 Wh/kg energy density. Thus, the proposed single-step hydrothermal growth is a promising route to obtain NiMoO4 nanostructures and other metal oxide electrodes for supercapacitor applications.
Fabrication and Characterization of Graphene Microcrystal Prepared from Lignin Refined from Sugarcane Bagasse
Authors: Tang Pei-Duo , Du Qi-Shi , Li Da-Peng , Dai Jun , Li Yan-Ming , Du Fang-Li , Long Si-Yu , Xie Neng-Zhong , Wang Qing-Yan , Huang Ri-Bo
Published: July 2018

Graphene microcrystal (GMC) is a type of glassy carbon fabricated from lignin, in which the microcrystals of graphene are chemically bonded by sp3 carbon atoms, forming a glass-like microcrystal structure. The lignin is refined from sugarcane bagasse using an ethanol-based organosolv technique which is used for the fabrication of GMC by two technical schemes: The pyrolysis reaction of lignin in a tubular furnace at atmospheric pressure; and the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of lignin at lower temperature, followed by pyrolysis at higher temperature. The existence of graphene nanofragments in GMC is proven by Raman spectra and XRD patterns; the ratio of sp2 carbon atoms to sp3 carbon atoms is demonstrated by XPS spectra; and the microcrystal structure is observed in the high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images. Temperature and pressure have an important impact on the quality of GMC samples. With the elevation of temperature, the fraction of carbon increases, while the fraction of oxygen decreases, and the ratio of sp2 to sp3 carbon atoms increases. In contrast to the pyrolysis techniques, the HTC technique needs lower temperatures because of the high vapor pressure of water. In general, with the help of biorefinery, the biomass material, lignin, is found to be qualified and sustainable material for the manufacture of GMC. Lignin acts as a renewable substitute for the traditional raw materials of glassy carbon, copolymer resins of phenol formaldehyde, and furfuryl alcohol-phenol.
Effect of Growth Rate on the Crystal Orientation and Magnetization Performance of Cobalt Nanocrystal Arrays Electrodeposited from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Saeki Ryusei , Ohgai Takeshi
Published: July 2018

The formation work of a two-dimensional hcp-Co (metallic cobalt crystal with hexagonal close packed structure) nucleus, Whkl, was calculated by Pangarov’s theory. W002 was estimated to be smaller than W100 in a cathode potential range nobler than the transition potential, Etra (ca. −0.77 V vs. Ag/AgCl). To confirm the above estimation, ferromagnetic nanocomposite thick films, which contained (002) textured hcp-Co nanocrystal arrays, were synthesized by potentiostatic electrochemical reduction of Co2+ ions in anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) nanochannel films with ca. 45 µm thickness. The aspect ratio of hcp-Co nanocrystals with a diameter of ca. 25 nm reached up to ca. 1800. Our experimental results revealed that the texture coefficient, TC002, increased when decreasing the overpotential for hcp-Co electrodeposition by shifting the cathode potential nobler than Etra. In a similar way, TC002 increased sharply by decreasing the growth rate of the hcp-Co nanocrystals so that it was smaller than the transition growth rate, Rtra (ca. 600 nm s−1). The perpendicular magnetization performance was observed in AAO nanocomposite films containing hcp-Co nanocrystal arrays. With increasing TC002, the coercivity of the nanocomposite film increased and reached up to 1.66 kOe, with a squareness of ca. 0.9 at room temperature.
Lactation Duration and Long-Term Thyroid Function: A Study among Women with Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Panuganti Pranati , Hinkle Stefanie , Rawal Shristi , Grunnet Louise , Lin Yuan , Liu Aiyi , Thuesen Anne , Ley Sylvia , Olesen Sjurdur , Zhang Cuilin
Published: July 2018

Lactation is associated with reduced postpartum weight retention and a lower risk of several cardiometabolic disorders in population-based studies. We examined the association between lactation and long-term thyroid function among women with history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a high-risk population for subsequent metabolic complications. The study included 550 women who developed GDM in the Danish National Birth Cohort (1996–2002) and followed-up in the Diabetes & Women’s Health Study (2012–2014). We assessed adjusted associations between cumulative lactation duration and concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), and free thyroxine (fT4) measured at follow-up. Women with longer cumulative lactation duration tended to have higher fT3 levels (adjusted β and 95% confidence interval (CI) for ≥12 months vs. none: 0.19 (0.03–0.36); p-trend = 0.05). When restricted to women with a single lifetime pregnancy to control for parity (n = 70), women who lactated for >6 months (vs. none) had higher fT3 levels (0.46 pmol/L (0.12–0.80); p-trend = 0.02) and a higher fT3:fT4 ratio (0.61 (0.17–1.05); p-trend = 0.007). Our findings suggested that a longer duration of lactation may be related to greater serum fT3 levels and fT3:fT4 ratio 9–16 years postpartum among Danish women with a history of GDM. The association was particularly pronounced among women who only had one lifetime pregnancy.
Understanding the Impact of Dietary Cholesterol on Chronic Metabolic Diseases through Studies in Rodent Models
Authors: Vinué Ángela , Herrero-Cervera Andrea , González-Navarro Herminia
Published: July 2018

The development of certain chronic metabolic diseases has been attributed to elevated levels of dietary cholesterol. However, decades of research in animal models and humans have demonstrated a high complexity with respect to the impact of dietary cholesterol on the progression of these diseases. Thus, recent investigations in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) point to dietary cholesterol as a key factor for the activation of inflammatory pathways underlying the transition from NAFLD to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and to hepatic carcinoma. Dietary cholesterol was initially thought to be the key factor for cardiovascular disease development, but its impact on the disease depends partly on the capacity to modulate plasmatic circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. These studies evidence a complex relationship between these chronic metabolic diseases and dietary cholesterol, which, in certain conditions, might promote metabolic complications. In this review, we summarize rodent studies that evaluate the impact of dietary cholesterol on these two prevalent chronic diseases and their relevance to human pathology.
Suboptimal Iodine Status and Low Iodine Knowledge in Young Norwegian Women
Authors: Henjum Sigrun , Brantsæter Anne Lise , Kurniasari Astrid , Dahl Lisbeth , Aadland Eli Kristin , Gjengedal Elin Lovise Folven , Birkeland Susanne , Aakre Inger
Published: July 2018

Previous studies have documented mild to moderate iodine deficiency in pregnant and lactating women in Norway. This study focused on non-pregnant young women because their future children may be susceptible to the adverse effects of iodine deficiency. We assessed urinary iodine concentration (UIC), iodine intake from food and supplements, and iodine knowledge in 403 non-pregnant women, mainly students, aged 18–30 years. Iodine concentration was measured in spot urine samples analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and iodine intake was calculated from a self-reported food frequency questionnaire. Knowledge about iodine was collected through the self-administered, paper-based questionnaire. Median (p25–p75) UIC was 75 (42–130) µg/L and 31% had UIC < 50 µg/L. Habitual iodine intake was 100 (69–136) µg/day. In multiple regression models, supplemental iodine, use of thyroid medication, and iodine intake from food were positively associated with UIC, while vegetarian practice was negatively associated, explaining 16% of the variance. Approximately 40% of the young women had low iodine knowledge score and no differences were found between women in different study programs. Young women in Norway are mild to moderately iodine-deficient, and public health strategies are needed to improve and secure adequate iodine status.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations Are Inversely Correlated with Hepatic Lipid Content in Male Collegiate Football Athletes
Authors: Sun Xiaomin , Cao Zhen-Bo , Tanisawa Kumpei , Oshima Satomi , Higuchi Mitsuru
Published: July 2018

Lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations are associated with more weight and fat mass gain in adults in the general population, but it is unknown whether this is the case in collegiate football athletes with greater body weight. This study aimed to investigate associations of serum 25(OH)D concentrations with body fat and ectopic fat accumulation, and to determine which fat indicators are closely related to serum 25(OH)D in male collegiate football athletes. Thirty-four collegiate athletes aged 21 years were recruited. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations and the levels of visceral fat area (VFA), vastus lateralis intramyocellular lipid (IMCL), extramyocellular lipid (EMCL), and intrahepatic lipid (IHCL) were measured. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were negatively associated with the IHCL values (r = −0.372, p = 0.030), and the relationship remained after adjustment for several factors (r = −0.378, p = 0.047). Additionally, multiple stepwise regression analysis of IHCL content as the dependent variable indicated that 25(OH)D concentrations were a stronger predictor of IHCL content (β = −0.363, p = 0.030) than % body fat and VO2peakFFM. Higher serum 25(OH)D concentrations are more closely related to lower IHCL content rather than any other fat indicators, suggesting that increasing serum 25(OH)D concentrations may have some effect that inhibits lipid accumulation in hepatic tissue, especially in heavy athletes.
Dietary Fibre as a Unifying Remedy for the Whole Spectrum of Obesity-Associated Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Bozzetto Lutgarda , Costabile Giuseppina , Della Pepa Giuseppe , Ciciola Paola , Vetrani Claudia , Vitale Marilena , Rivellese Angela A. , Annuzzi Giovanni
Published: July 2018

Obesity is a pandemic carrying the heavy burden of multiple and serious co-morbidities including metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The pathophysiological processes leading to the accumulation of body fat slowly evolve to fat accumulation in other body compartments than subcutaneous tissue. This abnormal fat deposition determines insulin resistance which in turn causes blood glucose and lipid metabolism derangement, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome. All these conditions contribute to increase the cardiovascular risk of obese people. Several randomized clinical trials demonstrated that moderate weight loss (5–10%) in obese patients improves obesity-related metabolic risk factors and coexisting disorders. Therefore, nutritional strategies able to facilitate weight management, and in the meantime positively influence obesity-associated cardiovascular risk factors, should be implemented. To this aim, a suitable option could be dietary fibres that may also act independently of weight loss. The present narrative review summarizes the current evidence about the effects of dietary fibres on weight management in obese people. Moreover, all of the different cardiovascular risk factors are individually considered and evidence on cardiovascular outcomes is summarized. We also describe the plausible mechanisms by which different dietary fibres could modulate cardio-metabolic risk factors. Overall, despite both epidemiological and intervention studies on weight loss that show statistically significant but negligible clinical effects, dietary fibres seem to have a beneficial impact on main pathophysiological pathways involved in cardiovascular risk (i.e., insulin resistance, renin-angiotensin, and sympathetic nervous systems). Although the evidence is not conclusive, this suggests that fibre would be a suitable option to counteract obesity-related cardio-metabolic diseases also independently of weight loss. However, evidence is not consistent for the different risk factors, with clear beneficial effects shown on blood glucose metabolism and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol while there is fewer, and less consistent data shown on plasma triglyceride and blood pressure. Ascribing the beneficial effect of some foods (i.e., fruits and vegetables) solely to their fibre content requires more investigation on the pathophysiological role of other dietary components, such as polyphenols.