bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gauge-Invariant Formulation of Time-Dependent Configuration Interaction Singles Method
Authors: Sato Takeshi , Teramura Takuma , Ishikawa Kenichi
Published: March 2018

We propose a gauge-invariant formulation of the channel orbital-based time-dependent configuration interaction singles (TDCIS) method [Phys. Rev. A, 74, 043420 (2006)], one of the powerful ab initio methods to investigate electron dynamics in atoms and molecules subject to an external laser field. In the present formulation, we derive the equations of motion (EOMs) in the velocity gauge using gauge-transformed time-dependent, not fixed, orbitals that are equivalent to the conventional EOMs in the length gauge using fixed orbitals. The new velocity-gauge EOMs avoid the use of the length-gauge dipole operator, which diverges at large distance, and allows us to exploit computational advantages of the velocity-gauge treatment over the length-gauge one, e.g., a faster convergence in simulations with intense and long-wavelength lasers, and the feasibility of exterior complex scaling as an absorbing boundary. The reformulated TDCIS method is applied to an exactly solvable model of one-dimensional helium atom in an intense laser field to numerically demonstrate the gauge invariance. We also discuss the consistent method for evaluating the time derivative of an observable, which is relevant, e.g., in simulating high-harmonic generation.
Evaluations of WRF Sensitivities in Surface Simulations with an Ensemble Prediction System
Authors: Pan Linlin , Liu Yubao , Knievel Jason , Delle Monache Luca , Roux Gregory
Published: March 2018

This paper investigates the sensitivities of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulations to different parameterization schemes (atmospheric boundary layer, microphysics, cumulus, longwave and shortwave radiations and other model configuration parameters) on a domain centered over the inter-mountain western United States (U.S.). Sensitivities are evaluated through a multi-model, multi-physics and multi-perturbation operational ensemble system based on the real-time four-dimensional data assimilation (RTFDDA) forecasting scheme, which was developed at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in the United States. The modeling system has three nested domains with horizontal grid intervals of 30 km, 10 km and 3.3 km. Each member of the ensemble system is treated as one of 48 sensitivity experiments. Validation with station observations is done with simulations on a 3.3-km domain from a cold period (January) and a warm period (July). Analyses and forecasts were run every 6 h during one week in each period. Performance metrics, calculated station-by-station and as a grid-wide average, are the bias, root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), normalized standard deviation and the correlation between the observation and model. Across all members, the 2-m temperature has domain-average biases of −1.5–0.8 K; the 2-m specific humidity has biases from −0.5–−0.05 g/kg; and the 10-m wind speed and wind direction have biases from 0.2–1.18 m/s and −0.5–4 degrees, respectively. Surface temperature is most sensitive to the microphysics and atmospheric boundary layer schemes, which can also produce significant differences in surface wind speed and direction. All examined variables are sensitive to data assimilation.
Mood Fluctuation and Psychobiological Instability: The Same Core Functions Are Disrupted by Novel Psychoactive Substances and Established Recreational Drugs
Authors: Parrott Andrew
Published: March 2018

Many novel psychoactive substances (NPS) have entered the recreational drug scene in recent years, yet the problems they cause are similar to those found with established drugs. This article will debate the psychobiological effects of these newer and more traditional substances. It will show how they disrupt the same core psychobiological functions, so damaging well-being in similar ways. Every psychoactive drug causes mood states to fluctuate. Users feel better on-drug, then feel worse off-drug. The strength of these mood fluctuations is closely related to their addiction potential. Cyclical changes can occur with many other core psychobiological functions, such as information processing and psychomotor speed. Hence the list of drug-related impairments can include: homeostatic imbalance, HPA axis disruption, increased stress, altered sleep patterns, neurohormonal changes, modified brain rhythms, neurocognitive impairments, and greater psychiatric vulnerability. Similar patterns of deficit are found with older drugs such as cocaine, nicotine and cannabis, and newer substances such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), mephedrone and spice. All psychoactive drugs damage human well-being through similar basic neuropsychobiological mechanisms.
Elucidating the Metabolic Plasticity of Cancer: Mitochondrial Reprogramming and Hybrid Metabolic States
Authors: Jia Dongya , Park Jun , Jung Kwang , Levine Herbert , Kaipparettu Benny
Published: March 2018

Aerobic glycolysis, also referred to as the Warburg effect, has been regarded as the dominant metabolic phenotype in cancer cells for a long time. More recently, it has been shown that mitochondria in most tumors are not defective in their ability to carry out oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Instead, in highly aggressive cancer cells, mitochondrial energy pathways are reprogrammed to meet the challenges of high energy demand, better utilization of available fuels and macromolecular synthesis for rapid cell division and migration. Mitochondrial energy reprogramming is also involved in the regulation of oncogenic pathways via mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling and post-translational modification of oncoproteins. In addition, neoplastic mitochondria can engage in crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment. For example, signals from cancer-associated fibroblasts can drive tumor mitochondria to utilize OXPHOS, a process known as the reverse Warburg effect. Emerging evidence shows that cancer cells can acquire a hybrid glycolysis/OXPHOS phenotype in which both glycolysis and OXPHOS can be utilized for energy production and biomass synthesis. The hybrid glycolysis/OXPHOS phenotype facilitates metabolic plasticity of cancer cells and may be specifically associated with metastasis and therapy-resistance. Moreover, cancer cells can switch their metabolism phenotypes in response to external stimuli for better survival. Taking into account the metabolic heterogeneity and plasticity of cancer cells, therapies targeting cancer metabolic dependency in principle can be made more effective.
Labeling of Cosmetic Products
Authors: Lionetti Nicola , Rigano Luigi
Published: March 2018

The labeling of cosmetic products provides a set of obligations, as reported in the Regulation 1223/2009, which came into force in Europe in July 2013. The indications reported on the label are intended to enable the clear identification of the functionality and proper use of cosmetics, ensure the protection of the consumer from the commercial aspects and, above all, from the safety point of view. Moreover, it should allow quick tracing of the product details and all info of toxicological relevance. However, the misuse of this tool often leads, on one side, to confusion among cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biocides. On the other side, it gives rise to fanciful interpretations by a huge number of web users, who pretend to be able to judge the quality of a cosmetic product just by reading the ingredients list. This article points out the concrete purpose of cosmetic labels, in order to shed light on the use of certain categories of ‘controversial’ ingredients and on the real quality concepts of cosmetic products. Indeed, when properly interpreted, cosmetic labels represent a good tool for the professional investigation of adverse reactions to cosmetics.
Thermodynamic Properties of a Regular Black Hole in Gravity Coupling to Nonlinear Electrodynamics
Authors: Wei Yi-Huan
Published: March 2018

We first calculate the heat capacities of the nonlinear electrodynamics (NED) black hole for fixed mass and electric charge, and the electric capacitances for fixed mass and entropy. Then, we study the properties of the Ruppeiner thermodynamic geometry of the NED black hole. Lastly, some discussions on the thermal stability of the NED black hole and the implication to the flatness of its Ruppeiner thermodynamic geometry are given.
An Information-Theoretic Perspective on the Quantum Bit Commitment Impossibility Theorem
Authors: Nagy Marius , Nagy Naya
Published: March 2018

This paper proposes a different approach to pinpoint the causes for which an unconditionally secure quantum bit commitment protocol cannot be realized, beyond the technical details on which the proof of Mayers’ no-go theorem is constructed. We have adopted the tools of quantum entropy analysis to investigate the conditions under which the security properties of quantum bit commitment can be circumvented. Our study has revealed that cheating the binding property requires the quantum system acting as the safe to harbor the same amount of uncertainty with respect to both observers (Alice and Bob) as well as the use of entanglement. Our analysis also suggests that the ability to cheat one of the two fundamental properties of bit commitment by any of the two participants depends on how much information is leaked from one side of the system to the other and how much remains hidden from the other participant.
Experimental Study on Breakdown Characteristics of Transformer Oil Influenced by Bubbles
Authors: Qin Chunxu , He Yan , Shi Bing , Zhao Tao , Lv Fangcheng , Cheng Xiangrui
Published: March 2018

Bubbles will reduce the electric strength of transformer oil, and even result in the breakdown of the insulation. This paper has studied the breakdown voltages of transformer oil and oil-impregnated pressboard under alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) voltages. In this paper, three types of electrodes were applied: cylinder-plan electrodes, sphere-plan electrodes, and cone-plan electrodes, and the breakdown voltages were measured in both no bubbles and bubbles. The sphere-sphere electrodes were used to study the breakdown voltage of the oil-impregnated pressboard. The results showed that under the influence of bubble, the breakdown voltage of the cylinder-plan electrode dropped the most, and the breakdown voltage of the cone-plan electrode dropped the least. The bubbles motion was the key factor of the breakdown. The discharge types of the oil-impregnated pressboard were different with bubbles, and under DC, the main discharge type was flashover along the oil-impregnated pressboard, while under AC, the main discharge type was breakdown through the oil-impregnated pressboard.
An Agent-Based Model for Zip-Code Level Diffusion of Electric Vehicles and Electricity Consumption in New York City
Authors: Ahkamiraad Azadeh , Wang Yong
Published: March 2018

Current power grids in many countries are not fully prepared for high electric vehicle (EV) penetration, and there is evidence that the construction of additional grid capacity is constantly outpaced by EV diffusion. If this situation continues, then it will compromise grid reliability and cause problems such as system overload, voltage and frequency fluctuations, and power losses. This is especially true for densely populated areas where the grid capacity is already strained with existing old infrastructure. The objective of this research is to identify the zip-code level electricity consumption that is associated with large-scale EV adoption in New York City, one of the most densely populated areas in the United States (U.S.). We fuse the Fisher and Pry diffusion model and Rogers model within the agent-based simulation to forecast zip-code level EV diffusion and the required energy capacity to satisfy the charging demand. The research outcomes will assist policy makers and grid operators in making better planning decisions on the locations and timing of investments during the transition to smarter grids and greener transportation.
The Use of UV-Vis Spectroscopy in Bioprocess and Fermentation Monitoring
Authors: Roberts Jessica , Power Aoife , Chapman James , Chandra Shaneel , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: March 2018

Real-time analytical tools to monitor bioprocess and fermentation in biological and food applications are becoming increasingly important. Traditional laboratory-based analyses need to be adapted to comply with new safety and environmental guidelines and reduce costs. Many methods for bioprocess fermentation monitoring are spectroscopy-based and include visible (Vis), infrared (IR) and Raman. This paper describes the main principles and recent developments in UV-Vis spectroscopy to monitor bioprocess and fermentation in different food production applications.
Caenorhabditis elegans BRICHOS Domain–Containing Protein C09F5.1 Maintains Thermotolerance and Decreases Cytotoxicity of Aβ42 by Activating the UPR
Authors: Song Myungchul , Song Kyunghee , Kim Sunghee , Lee Jinyoung , Hwang Sueyun , Han Chingtack
Published: March 2018

Caenorhabditis elegans C09F5.1 is a nematode-specific gene that encodes a type II transmembrane protein containing the BRICHOS domain. The gene was isolated as a heat-sensitive mutant, but the function of the protein remained unclear. We examined the expression pattern and subcellular localization of C09F5.1 as well as its roles in thermotolerance and chaperone function. Expression of C09F5.1 under heat shock conditions was induced in a heat shock factor 1 (HSF-1)–dependent manner. However, under normal growth conditions, most cells types exposed to mechanical stimuli expressed C09F5.1. Knockdown of C09F5.1 expression or deletion of the N-terminal domain decreased thermotolerance. The BRICHOS domain of C09F5.1 did not exhibit chaperone function unlike those of other proteins containing this domain, but the domain was essential for the proper subcellular localization of the protein. Intact C09F5.1 was localized to the Golgi body, but the N-terminal domain of C09F5.1 (C09F5.1-NTD) was retained in the ER. C09F5.1-NTD delayed paralysis by beta-amyloid (1-42) protein (Aβ42) in Alzheimer’s disease model worms (CL4176) and activated the unfolded protein response (UPR) by interacting with Aβ42. An intrinsically disordered region (IDR) located at the N-terminus of C09F5.1 may be responsible for the chaperone function of C09F5.1-NTD. Taken together, the data suggest that C09F5.1 triggers the UPR by interacting with abnormal proteins.
VdPLP, A Patatin-Like Phospholipase in Verticillium dahliae, Is Involved in Cell Wall Integrity and Required for Pathogenicity
Authors: Qi Xiliang , Li Xiaokang , Guo Huiming , Guo Ning , Cheng Hongmei
Published: March 2018

The soil-borne ascomycete fungus Verticillium dahliae causes vascular wilt disease and can seriously diminish the yield and quality of important crops. Functional analysis of growth- and pathogenicity-related genes is essential for revealing the pathogenic molecular mechanism of V. dahliae. Phospholipase is an important virulence factor in fungi that hydrolyzes phospholipids into fatty acid and other lipophilic substances and is involved in hyphal development. Thus far, only a few V. dahliae phospholipases have been identified, and their involvement in V. dahliae development and pathogenicity remains unknown. In this study, the function of the patatin-like phospholipase gene in V. dahliae (VdPLP, VDAG_00942) is characterized by generating gene knockout and complementary mutants. Vegetative growth and conidiation of VdPLP deletion mutants (ΔVdPLP) were significantly reduced compared with wild type and complementary strains, but more microsclerotia formed. The ΔVdPLP mutants were very sensitive to the cell-wall-perturbing agents: calcofluor white (CFW) and Congo red (CR). The transcriptional level of genes related to the cell wall integrity (CWI) pathway and chitin synthesis were downregulated, suggesting that VdPLP has a pivotal role in the CWI pathway and chitin synthesis in V. dahliae. ΔVdPLP strains were distinctly impaired in in their virulence and ability to colonize Nicotiana benthamiana roots. Our results demonstrate that VdPLP regulates hyphal growth and conidial production and is involved in stabilizing the cell wall, thus mediating the pathogenicity of V. dahliae.
Mobile Phone Dependence, Social Support and Impulsivity in Chinese University Students
Authors: Mei Songli , Chai Jingxin , Wang Shi-Bin , Ng Chee , Ungvari Gabor , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: March 2018

This study examined the frequency of mobile phone dependence in Chinese university students and explored its association with social support and impulsivity. Altogether, 909 university students were consecutively recruited from a large university in China. Mobile phone use, mobile phone dependence, impulsivity, and social support were measured with standardized instruments. The frequency of possible mobile phone use and mobile phone dependence was 78.3% and 7.4%, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed that compared with no mobile phone dependence, possible mobile phone dependence was significantly associated with being male (p = 0.04, OR = 0.7, 95% CI: 0.4–0.98), excessive mobile phone use (p < 0.001, OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.09–1.2), and impulsivity (p < 0.001, OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03–1.06), while mobile phone dependence was associated with length of weekly phone use (p = 0.01, OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.2–5.0), excessive mobile phone use (p < 0.001, OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2–1.4), and impulsivity (p < 0.001, OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05–1.1). The frequency of possible mobile phone dependence and mobile phone dependence was high in this sample of Chinese university students. A significant positive association with impulsivity was found, but not with social support.
Maternal Residential Proximity to Major Roadways and Pediatric Embryonal Tumors in Offspring
Authors: Kumar Shwetha , Lupo Philip , Pompeii Lisa , Danysh Heather
Published: March 2018

The environmental determinants of pediatric embryonal tumors remain unclear. Because of the growing concern over the impact of exposures to traffic-related air pollution on pediatric cancer, we conducted a population-based study evaluating the impact of maternal residential proximity to major roadways on the risk of pediatric embryonal tumors in offspring. We identified children diagnosed with neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, retinoblastoma, or hepatoblastoma at <5 years of age from the Texas Cancer Registry and selected unaffected controls from birth certificates. Two residential proximity measures were used: (1) distance to the nearest major roadway, and (2) within 500 m of a major roadway. Logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each proximity measure on pediatric embryonal tumors. The odds of an embryonal tumor were increased in children born to mothers living within 500 m of a major roadway (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.54). This was consistent for most tumor subtypes, with the strongest associations observed for unilateral retinoblastoma (aOR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.28, 5.15, for every kilometer closer the mother lived to the nearest major roadway). These findings contribute to the growing evidence that traffic-related air pollution may increase risk for certain pediatric tumors.
Acute Stress and Anxiety in Medical Residents on the Emergency Department Duty
Authors: González-Cabrera Joaquín , Fernández-Prada María , Iribar Concepción , Molina-Ruano Rogelio , Salinero-Bachiller María , Peinado José
Published: March 2018

The objectives of this longitudinal study were to compare salivary cortisol release patterns in medical residents and their self-perceived anxiety levels between a regular working day and a day when on call in the emergency department (ED-duty day) and to determine any differences in cortisol release pattern as a function of years of residency or sex. The study included 35 residents (physicians-in-training) of the Granada University Hospital, Granada, Spain. Acute stress was measured on a regular working day and an ED-duty day, evaluating anxiety-state with the Spanish version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Physiological stress assessment was based on salivary cortisol levels. Cortisol release concentrations were higher on an ED-duty day than on a regular working day, with a significantly increased area under the curve (AUC) (p < 0.006). This difference slightly attenuated with longer residency experience. No gender difference in anxiety levels was observed (p < 0.001). According to these findings, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity and anxiety levels of medical residents are higher on an ED-duty day than on a regular working day.
Social Network Analysis as a Methodological Approach to Explore Health Systems: A Case Study Exploring Support among Senior Managers/Executives in a Hospital Network
Authors: De Brún Aoife , McAuliffe Eilish
Published: March 2018

Health systems research recognizes the complexity of healthcare, and the interacting and interdependent nature of components of a health system. To better understand such systems, innovative methods are required to depict and analyze their structures. This paper describes social network analysis as a methodology to depict, diagnose, and evaluate health systems and networks therein. Social network analysis is a set of techniques to map, measure, and analyze social relationships between people, teams, and organizations. Through use of a case study exploring support relationships among senior managers in a newly established hospital group, this paper illustrates some of the commonly used network- and node-level metrics in social network analysis, and demonstrates the value of these maps and metrics to understand systems. Network analysis offers a valuable approach to health systems and services researchers as it offers a means to depict activity relevant to network questions of interest, to identify opinion leaders, influencers, clusters in the network, and those individuals serving as bridgers across clusters. The strengths and limitations inherent in the method are discussed, and the applications of social network analysis in health services research are explored.
An Approach to Measuring Semantic Relatedness of Geographic Terminologies Using a Thesaurus and Lexical Database Sources
Authors: Chen Zugang , Song Jia , Yang Yaping
Published: March 2018

In geographic information science, semantic relatedness is important for Geographic Information Retrieval (GIR), Linked Geospatial Data, geoparsing, and geo-semantics. But computing the semantic similarity/relatedness of geographic terminology is still an urgent issue to tackle. The thesaurus is a ubiquitous and sophisticated knowledge representation tool existing in various domains. In this article, we combined the generic lexical database (WordNet or HowNet) with the Thesaurus for Geographic Science and proposed a thesaurus–lexical relatedness measure (TLRM) to compute the semantic relatedness of geographic terminology. This measure quantified the relationship between terminologies, interlinked the discrete term trees by using the generic lexical database, and realized the semantic relatedness computation of any two terminologies in the thesaurus. The TLRM was evaluated on a new relatedness baseline, namely, the Geo-Terminology Relatedness Dataset (GTRD) which was built by us, and the TLRM obtained a relatively high cognitive plausibility. Finally, we applied the TLRM on a geospatial data sharing portal to support data retrieval. The application results of the 30 most frequently used queries of the portal demonstrated that using TLRM could improve the recall of geospatial data retrieval in most situations and rank the retrieval results by the matching scores between the query of users and the geospatial dataset.
Extraction of Tourist Destinations and Comparative Analysis of Preferences Between Foreign Tourists and Domestic Tourists on the Basis of Geotagged Social Media Data
Authors: Maeda Takashi , Yoshida Mitsuo , Toriumi Fujio , Ohashi Hirotada
Published: March 2018

Inbound tourism plays an important role in local economies. To stimulate local economies, it is necessary to attract foreign tourists to various areas of a country. This research aims to develop a method of extracting the locations of tourist destinations in a country and to understand what characteristics foreign tourists expect of areas near tourist attractions compared with what domestic tourists expect. In this paper, a tourist destination is defined as a small area that has places of interests for tourists such as historic sites, theme parks, hotels, and restaurants. The methods proposed in this paper are applied to data acquired from Twitter and Foursquare in Japan. The proposed method successfully extracts the locations of tourist destinations and characterizes those locations based on the points of interest in the neighborhood. The results indicate that foreign tourists who come to Japan expect nightlife spots (bars, nightclubs, etc.) to be located in the neighborhood of tourist destinations, in contrast to the expectations of domestic tourists. The proposed methods are applicable to not only Japan, but to any country.
Improving Hydrolysis Characteristics of Xylanases by Site-Directed Mutagenesis in Binding-Site Subsites from Streptomyces L10608
Authors: Xiong Ke , Xiong Suyue , Gao Siyu , Li Qin , Sun Baoguo , Li Xiuting
Published: March 2018

The preparation of oligosaccharides via xylan hydrolysis is an effective way to add value to hemicellulosic material of agricultural waste. The bacterial strain Streptomyces L10608, isolated from soil, contains genes encoding xylanases of glucoside hydrolase family 10/11 (GH10/11), and these have been cloned to catalyze the production of xylooligosaccharide (XOS). To improve the XOS proportion of hydrolysates produced by xylanase, four amino acid residues were substituted by site-directed mutagenesis, and the mutant genes were overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Mutations replaced the codons encoding Asn214 (+2) and Asn86 (−2) by Ala and removed the Ricin B-lectin domain in GH10-xyn, and mutants Y115A (−2) and Y123A (−2) were produced for GH11-xyn. Interestingly, GH10-N86Q had significantly increased hydrolysis of XOS and almost eliminated xylose (X1) to <2.5%, indicating that the −2 binding site of GH10-xyn of L10608 is required for binding with xylotriose (X3). The hydrolytic activity of GH10-N86Q was increased approximately 1.25-fold using beechwood xylan as a substrate and had high affinity for the substrate with a low Km of about 1.85 mg·mL−1. Otherwise, there were no significant differences in enzymatic properties between GH10-N86Q and GH10-xyn. These mutants offer great potential for modification of xylanase with desired XOS hydrolysis.
Targeting Hodgkin and Reed–Sternberg Cells with an Inhibitor of Heat-Shock Protein 90: Molecular Pathways of Response and Potential Mechanisms of Resistance
Authors: Segges Priscilla , Corrêa Stephany , Du Rocher Bárbara , Vera-Lozada Gabriela , Krsticevic Flavia , Arce Debora , Sternberg Cinthya , Abdelhay Eliana , Hassan Rocio
Published: March 2018

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) cells overexpress heat-shock protein 90 (HSP90), an important intracellular signaling hub regulating cell survival, which is emerging as a promising therapeutic target. Here, we report the antitumor effect of celastrol, an anti-inflammatory compound and a recognized HSP90 inhibitor, in Hodgkin and Reed–Sternberg cell lines. Two disparate responses were recorded. In KM-H2 cells, celastrol inhibited cell proliferation, induced G0/G1 arrest, and triggered apoptosis through the activation of caspase-3/7. Conversely, L428 cells exhibited resistance to the compound. A proteomic screening identified a total of 262 differentially expressed proteins in sensitive KM-H2 cells and revealed that celastrol’s toxicity involved the suppression of the MAPK/ERK (extracellular signal regulated kinase/mitogen activated protein kinase) pathway. The apoptotic effects were preceded by a decrease in RAS (proto-oncogene protein Ras), p-ERK1/2 (phospho-extracellular signal-regulated Kinase-1/2), and c-Fos (proto-oncogene protein c-Fos) protein levels, as validated by immunoblot analysis. The L428 resistant cells exhibited a marked induction of HSP27 mRNA and protein after celastrol treatment. Our results provide the first evidence that celastrol has antitumor effects in cHL cells through the suppression of the MAPK/ERK pathway. Resistance to celastrol has rarely been described, and our results suggest that in cHL it may be mediated by the upregulation of HSP27. The antitumor properties of celastrol against cHL and whether the disparate responses observed in vitro have clinical correlates deserve further research.
The Popeye Domain Containing Genes and Their Function as cAMP Effector Proteins in Striated Muscle
Authors: Brand Thomas
Published: March 2018

The Popeye domain containing (POPDC) genes encode transmembrane proteins, which are abundantly expressed in striated muscle cells. Hallmarks of the POPDC proteins are the presence of three transmembrane domains and the Popeye domain, which makes up a large part of the cytoplasmic portion of the protein and functions as a cAMP-binding domain. Interestingly, despite the prediction of structural similarity between the Popeye domain and other cAMP binding domains, at the protein sequence level they strongly differ from each other suggesting an independent evolutionary origin of POPDC proteins. Loss-of-function experiments in zebrafish and mouse established an important role of POPDC proteins for cardiac conduction and heart rate adaptation after stress. Loss-of function mutations in patients have been associated with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy and AV-block. These data suggest an important role of these proteins in the maintenance of structure and function of striated muscle cells.
Cellular and Animal Model Studies on the Growth Inhibitory Effects of Polyamine Analogues on Breast Cancer
Authors: Thomas T. , Thomas Thresia
Published: March 2018

Polyamine levels are elevated in breast tumors compared to those of adjacent normal tissues. The female sex hormone, estrogen is implicated in the origin and progression of breast cancer. Estrogens stimulate and antiestrogens suppress the expression of polyamine biosynthetic enzyme, ornithine decarboxylate (ODC). Using several bis(ethyl)spermine analogues, we found that these analogues inhibited the proliferation of estrogen receptor-positive and estrogen receptor negative breast cancer cells in culture. There was structure-activity relationship in the efficacy of these compounds in suppressing cell growth. The activity of ODC was inhibited by these compounds, whereas the activity of the catabolizing enzyme, spermidine/spermine N1-acetyl transferase (SSAT) was increased by 6-fold by bis(ethyl)norspermine in MCF-7 cells. In a transgenic mouse model of breast cancer, bis(ethyl)norspermine reduced the formation and growth of spontaneous mammary tumor. Recent studies indicate that induction of polyamine catabolic enzymes SSAT and spermine oxidase (SMO) play key roles in the anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of polyamine analogues and their combinations with chemotherapeutic agents such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and paclitaxel. Thus, polyamine catabolic enzymes might be important therapeutic targets and markers of sensitivity in utilizing polyamine analogues in combination with other therapeutic agents.
Fundamental Flotation Behaviors of Chalcopyrite and Galena Using O-Isopropyl-N-Ethyl Thionocarbamate as a Collector
Authors: Bu Yongjie , Hu Yuehua , Sun Wei , Gao Zhiyong , Liu Runqing
Published: March 2018

Copper and lead are two important and widely used metals in industry. Chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) is associated with galena (PbS) in ore, and it has been a research hotspot in separating galena from chalcopyrite by flotation. In this study, the flotation behaviors of chalcopyrite and galena were studied through flotation tests, adsorption measurements, solution chemistry calculation, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results show that the floatability of chalcopyrite is better than that of galena in the presence of O-isopropyl-N-ethyl thionocarbamate (IPETC), and the recovery difference between chalcopyrite and galena is about 20% when IPETC is 7 × 10−4 mol/L at pH 9.5, while the floatability difference between the two minerals is significant. Competitive adsorption of OH− and IPETC on mineral surfaces leads to lower floatability of galena than that of chalcopyrite. IPETC is able to remove the hydration layer on mineral surfaces and then adsorb on active sites. The floatability of minerals is enhanced with the increase of their hydrophobicity. This study provides a reference to separate galena from chalcopyrite.
The Effect of Tomatine on Gene Expression and Cell Monolayer Integrity in Caco-2
Authors: Arena Mattia , Govers Coen , Lotti Concetta , Ricciardi Luigi , Wichers Harry , Mes Jurriaan
Published: March 2018

More understanding of the risk-benefit effect of the glycoalkaloid tomatine is required to be able to estimate the role it might play in our diet. In this work, we focused on effects towards intestinal epithelial cells based on a Caco-2 model in order to analyze the influence on the cell monolayer integrity and on the expression levels of genes involved in cholesterol/sterol biosynthesis (LDLR), lipid metabolism (NR2F2), glucose and amino acid uptake (SGLT1, PAT1), cell cycle (PCNA, CDKN1A), apoptosis (CASP-3, BMF, KLF6), tight junctions (CLDN4, OCLN2) and cytokine-mediated signaling (IL-8, IL1β, TSLP, TNF-α). Furthermore, since the bioactivity of the compound might vary in the presence of a food matrix and following digestion, the influence of both pure tomatine and in vitro digested tomatine with and without tomato fruit matrix was studied. The obtained results suggested that concentrations <20 µg/mL of tomatine, either undigested or in vitro digested, do not compromise the viability of Caco-2 cells and stimulate cytokine expression. This effect of tomatine, in vitro digested tomatine or in vitro digested tomatine with tomato matrix differs slightly, probably due to variations of bioactivity or bioavailability of the tomatine. The results lead to the hypothesis that tomatine acts as hormetic compound that can induce beneficial or risk toxic effects whether used in low or high dose.
Anti-Inflammatory and Tissue Regenerative Effects of Topical Treatment with Ozonated Olive Oil/Vitamin E Acetate in Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans
Authors: Currò Monica , Russo Tiziana , Ferlazzo Nadia , Caccamo Daniela , Antonuccio Pietro , Arena Salvatore , Parisi Saveria , Perrone Patrizia , Ientile Riccardo , Romeo Carmelo , Impellizzeri Pietro
Published: March 2018

Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, considered the male genital variant of lichen sclerosus. Anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used in BXO. We evaluated the effects of an innovative formulation of ozonated olive oil with vitamin E acetate (OZOILE®) on the inflammatory status and tissue remodeling in male children with BXO. The mRNA transcripts of proteins involved either in inflammation or in dynamics of tissue regeneration were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR, in foreskins affected by BXO removed from patients untreated or treated with OZOILE® cream for 7 days before circumcision. We found a significant reduction in mRNA levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, INF–γ, transglutaminase 2 and NOS2 in foreskins treated with OZOILE® in comparison to untreated ones (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in NF-κB activation in the specimens obtained from treated and untreated patients. Hence, OZOILE® treatment up-regulated hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and E-cadherin gene expression (p < 0.001). The treatment with OZOILE® showed effective results in children affected by BXO by reducing the inflammatory process and stimulating mechanisms for tissue regeneration of the foreskin. A randomized clinical trial on a large number of children affected by BXO might be useful to verify the efficacy of topical treatment with OZOILE®.
Structural Diversity and Biological Activities of Novel Secondary Metabolites from Endophytes
Authors: Gao Han , Li Gang , Lou Hong-Xiang
Published: March 2018

Exploration of structurally novel natural products greatly facilitates the discovery of biologically active pharmacophores that are biologically validated starting points for the development of new drugs. Endophytes that colonize the internal tissues of plant species, have been proven to produce a large number of structurally diverse secondary metabolites. These molecules exhibit remarkable biological activities, including antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, to name but a few. This review surveys the structurally diverse natural products with new carbon skeletons, unusual ring systems, or rare structural moieties that have been isolated from endophytes between 1996 and 2016. It covers their structures and bioactivities. Biosynthesis and/or total syntheses of some important compounds are also highlighted. Some novel secondary metabolites with marked biological activities might deserve more attention from chemists and biologists in further studies.
Vinylation of a Secondary Amine Core with Calcium Carbide for Efficient Post-Modification and Access to Polymeric Materials
Authors: Rodygin Konstantin , Bogachenkov Alexander , Ananikov Valentine
Published: March 2018

We developed a simple and efficient strategy to access N-vinyl secondary amines of various naturally occurring materials using readily available solid acetylene reagents (calcium carbide, KF, and KOH). Pyrrole, pyrazole, indoles, carbazoles, and diarylamines were successfully vinylated in good yields. Cross-linked and linear polymers were synthesized from N-vinyl carbazoles through free radical and cationic polymerization. Post-modification of olanzapine (an antipsychotic drug substance) was successfully performed.
Antitumour, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antiacetylcholinesterase Effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Terpenoids and Polysaccharides: A Review
Authors: Cör Darija , Knez Željko , Knez Hrnčič Maša
Published: March 2018

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) is a popular medicinal mushroom and has been used in oriental medicine because of its promoting effects on health and life expectancy. G. lucidum contains various compounds with a high grade of biological activty, which increase the immunity and show antitumour, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Several of these substances belong to the triterpenoids and polysaccharides classes. Proteins, lipids, phenols, sterols, etc. are also present. In the present review, an extensive overview of the presence of antitumour, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase compounds in G. lucidum extracts will be given, along with an evaluation of their therapeutic effects.
Development and Validation of a HPLC-UV Method for Extraction Optimization and Biological Evaluation of Hot-Water and Ethanolic Extracts of Dendropanax morbifera Leaves
Authors: Choi Hyung-Jae , Park Dae-Hun , Song Seung-Hui , Yoon In-Soo , Cho Seung-Sik
Published: March 2018

Dendropanax morbifera Leveille (Araliaceae) has been used in traditional oriental remedies for cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and thrombosis. However, a validated analytical method, standardization, and optimization of extraction conditions with respect to biological activity have not been reported. In this study, a simple and validated HPLC method for identifying and quantifying active substances in D. morbifera was developed. Hot water and ethanolic D. morbifera leaf extracts from different production regions were prepared and evaluated with regard to their chemical compositions and biological activities. The contents of active compounds such as rutin and chlorogenic acid were determined in four samples collected from different regions. The 80% ethanolic extract showed the best antioxidant activity, phenolic content, reducing power, and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. The validated HPLC method confirmed the presence of chlorogenic acid and rutin in D. morbifera leaf extracts. The antioxidant and XO inhibitory activity of D. morbifera extract could be attributed to the marker compounds. Collectively, these results suggest that D. morbifera leaves could be beneficial for the treatment or prevention of hyperuricemia-related disease, and the validated HPLC method could be a useful tool for the quality control of food or drug formulations containing D. morbifera.
Seasonal Reproduction in Vertebrates: Melatonin Synthesis, Binding, and Functionality Using Tinbergen’s Four Questions
Authors: ViviD Dax , Bentley George E.
Published: March 2018

One of the many functions of melatonin in vertebrates is seasonal reproductive timing. Longer nights in winter correspond to an extended duration of melatonin secretion. The purpose of this review is to discuss melatonin synthesis, receptor subtypes, and function in the context of seasonality across vertebrates. We conclude with Tinbergen’s Four Questions to create a comparative framework for future melatonin research in the context of seasonal reproduction.
l-Carnitine Supplementation in Recovery after Exercise
Authors: Fielding Roger , Riede Linda , Lugo James , Bellamine Aouatef
Published: March 2018

Given its pivotal role in fatty acid oxidation and energy metabolism, l-carnitine has been investigated as ergogenic aid for enhancing exercise capacity in the healthy athletic population. Early research indicates its beneficial effects on acute physical performance, such as increased maximum oxygen consumption and higher power output. Later studies point to the positive impact of dietary supplementation with l-carnitine on the recovery process after exercise. It is demonstrated that l-carnitine alleviates muscle injury and reduces markers of cellular damage and free radical formation accompanied by attenuation of muscle soreness. The supplementation-based increase in serum and muscle l-carnitine contents is suggested to enhance blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscle tissue via improved endothelial function thereby reducing hypoxia-induced cellular and biochemical disruptions. Studies in older adults further showed that l-carnitine intake can lead to increased muscle mass accompanied by a decrease in body weight and reduced physical and mental fatigue. Based on current animal studies, a role of l-carnitine in the prevention of age-associated muscle protein degradation and regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis is suggested.
Enantiopure Chiral Coordination Polymers Based on Polynuclear Paddlewheel Helices and Arsenyl Tartrate
Authors: Valentín-Pérez Ángela , Naim Ahmad , Hillard Elizabeth , Rosa Patrick , Cortijo Miguel
Published: March 2018

Herein, we report the preparation of chiral, one-dimensional coordination polymers based on trinuclear paddlewheel helices [M3(dpa)4]2+ (M = Co(II) and Ni(II); dpa = the anion of 2,2′-dipyridylamine). Enantiomeric resolution of a racemic mixture of [M3(dpa)4]2+ complexes was achieved by chiral recognition of the respective enantiomer by [Δ-As2(tartrate)2]2− or [Λ-As2(tartrate)2]2− in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), affording crystalline coordination polymers formed from [(Δ-Co3(dpa)4)(Λ-As2(tartrate)2)]·3DMF (Δ-1), [(Λ-Co3(dpa)4)(Δ-As2(tartrate)2)]·3DMF (Λ-1), [(Δ-Ni3(dpa)4)(Λ-As2(tartrate)2)]·(4 − n)DMF∙nEt2O (Δ-2) or [(Λ-Ni3(dpa)4)(Δ-As2(tartrate)2)]·(4 − n)DMF∙nEt2O (Λ-2) repeating units. UV-visible circular dichroism spectra of the complexes in DMF solutions demonstrate the efficient isolation of optically active species. The helicoidal [M3(dpa)4]2+ units that were obtained display high stability towards racemization as shown by the absence of an evolution of the dichroic signals after several days at room temperature and only a small decrease of the signal after 3 h at 80 °C.
Structure and Properties Study of PA6 Nanocomposites Flame Retarded by Aluminium Salt of Diisobutylphosphinic Acid and Different Organic Montmorillonites
Authors: He Wen-Tao , Liao Sheng-Tao , Xiang Yu-Shu , Long Li-Juan , Qin Shu-Hao , Yu Jie
Published: March 2018

Two different types of organic montmorillonite, namely quaternary ammonium salt intercalated MMT (CMMT) and quaternary phosphonium salt intercalated MMT (PMMT) were used as fillers in the flame-retardant polyamide (PA6) based on aluminium salts of diisobutylphosphinic acid (ABPA). The influence of different types of organic montmorillonite (OMMT) on the structure and properties of flame-retardant PA6 nanocomposites were systematically investigated. The X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results suggested that the introduction of OMMT improved the dispersion of the flame retardant particles independently of the type of OMMT. The derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) curve transformed to one peak from two peaks (representing the degradation of ABPA and PA6, respectively) after incorporation of the OMMT, which further confirmed better ABPA dispersion. Viscoelastic measurements demonstrated that a mechanically stable network structure was formed with the introduction of OMMT or ABPA and OMMT, while PA6/ABPA/PMMT presented the highest storage modulus and viscosity, suggesting a more efficient network structure. From UL-94 and limited oxygen index (LOI) tests, PA6/ABPA/PMMT presented the best flame performance, with a UL-94 of V-0 and a LOI of 33%. In addition, the PA6/ABPA/PMMT presented the lowest peak heat release rate (pHRR) among the investigated samples. Combined with the char layer analysis, it can be deduced that the introduction of PMMT improved the dispersion of ABPA, and promoted the formation of more efficient network structure, before promoting more compact char structures, which finally resulted in improved flame retardancy.
Religion as Play: Pentecostalism as a Theological Type
Authors: Vondey Wolfgang
Published: March 2018

This article suggests that Pentecostalism constitutes a genuine type of religion we can label as play. In order to identify the particular elements of this type, the article makes use of Erving Goffman’s frame analysis to organize Pentecostal theological activity. This methodological starting point is followed by an overview of existing interpretations of Pentecostalism as a form of play. The main portion of this essay then constructs from an analysis of everyday experiences visible in Pentecostalism a primary framework of activities oriented around the transformative encounter with the Holy Spirit. The sequence of activity involves a primary and overlapping pattern of Pentecostal spirituality, experience, narrative, affections, practices, and embodiment. Demonstrating that play is not exclusive to Pentecostalism, but that Pentecostals manifest a particularly visible form, demands that greater attention is paid both to Pentecostalism as a religious tradition and to play as a theological model.
Acute Retroperitoneal Hemorrhage Induced by Giant Adrenal Myelolipoma Mimicking Renal Colic Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Hou Yueh-Tseng , Yiang Giou-Teng
Published: March 2018

Retroperitoneal hemorrhage is a life-threatening clinical entity which is difficult to diagnose due to numerous etiology and unspecific symptoms. Spontaneous severe retroperitoneal hemorrhage, known as Wunderlich’s syndrome presented with Lenk’s triad, includes acute flank pain, flank mass, and hypovolemic shock. Giant adrenal myelolipoma causing Wunderlich’s syndrome is rare. Here, we presented a 59-year-old woman with spontaneous acute onset persistent left flank pain. The kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) study revealed left renal stones. The abnormal D-dimer level and progressive symptoms alerted emergency physicians to intervene timely. The computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a giant adrenal mass with retroperitoneal hemorrhage. After hemodynamically controlled and surgical intervention, she recovered and was followed up at the outpatient department (OPD). In this article, we highlight that myelolipoma-induced spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage may cause Wunderlich’s syndrome and lead to hypovolemic shock. It is important for emergency physicians to intervene timely. Early diagnosis and management lead to a better outcome.