bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Fenugreek on Milk Production in Rodent Models of Lactation Challenge
Authors: Sevrin Thomas , Alexandre-Gouabau Marie-Cécile , Castellano Blandine , Aguesse Audrey , Ouguerram Khadija , Ngyuen Patrick , Darmaun Dominique , Boquien Clair-Yves
Published: October 2019

Fenugreek, a herbal remedy, has long been used as galactologue to help mothers likely to stop breastfeeding because of perceived insufficient milk production. However, few studies highlight the efficacy of fenugreek in enhancing milk production. The aims of our study were to determine whether fenugreek increased milk yield in rodent models of lactation challenge and if so, to verify the lack of adverse effects on dam and offspring metabolism. Two lactation challenges were tested: increased litter size to 12 pups in dams fed a 20% protein diet and perinatal restriction to an 8% protein diet with eight pups’ litter, with or without 1 g.kg−1.day−1 dietary supplementation of fenugreek, compared to control dams fed 20% protein diet with eight pups’ litters. Milk flow was measured by the deuterium oxide enrichment method, and milk composition was assessed. Lipid and glucose metabolism parameters were assessed in dam and offspring plasmas. Fenugreek increased milk production by 16% in the litter size increase challenge, resulting in an 11% increase in pup growth without deleterious effect on dam-litter metabolism. Fenugreek had no effect in the maternal protein restriction challenge. These results suggest a galactologue effect of fenugreek when mothers have no physiological difficulties in producing milk.
Selection of Target Nutrients for the Nutritional Standards of School Lunches in Korea
Authors: Kim Meeyoung , Kim Dongwoo , Yoon Jihyun
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to select target nutrients to be included in the nutritional standards of school lunches in Korea. The dietary intake data for children and adolescents aged 6–17 years old from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey VI were analyzed for eight groups based on gender and age (6–8, 9–11, 12–14, and 15–17 years old). First, the usual intake of 3091 subjects was estimated and assessed to identify nutrients with insufficient or excessive intake prevalence. Along with the nutrients identified by the assessment, the energy and nutrients prioritized in the meal planning procedure of the 2015 Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans were the initial candidates; these nutrients and energy include the percentages of energy from carbohydrates, protein, and fat; vitamin A; riboflavin; niacin; vitamin C; calcium; phosphorus; sodium; and iron. Phosphorus was excluded as a result of there being little evidence of clinical symptoms caused by its insufficient intake. Sodium was excluded because reliable data on added salt were not available among the school lunch recipes in Korea. Therefore, energy; the percentages of energy from carbohydrates, protein, and fat; vitamin A; riboflavin; niacin; vitamin C; calcium; and iron were selected to be included in the nutritional standards for school lunches in Korea.
Opening the OPK Assay Gatekeeper: Harnessing Multi-Modal Protection by Pneumococcal Vaccines
Authors: Riegler Ashleigh N. , Mann Beth , Orihuela Carlos J. , Tuomanen Elaine
Published: October 2019

Pneumococcal vaccine development is driven by the achievement of high activity in a single gatekeeper assay: the bacterial opsonophagocytic killing (OPK) assay. New evidence challenges the dogma that anti-capsular antibodies have only a single function that predicts success. The emerging concept of multi-modal protection presents an array of questions that are fundamental to adopting a new vaccine design process. If antibodies have hidden non-opsonic functions that are protective, should these be optimized for better vaccines? What would protein antigens add to protective activity? Are cellular immune functions additive to antibodies for success? Do different organs benefit from different modes of protection? Can vaccine activities beyond OPK protect the immunocompromised host? This commentary raises these issues at a time when capsule-only OPK assay-based vaccines are increasingly seen as a limiting strategy.
Taxonomical and Functional Assessment of the Endometrial Microbiota in A Context of Recurrent Reproductive Failure: A Case Report
Authors: Garcia-Grau Iolanda , Perez-Villaroya David , Bau Davide , Gonzalez-Monfort Marta , Vilella Felipe , Moreno Inmaculada , Simon Carlos
Published: October 2019

Investigation of the microbial community in the female reproductive tract has revealed that the replacement of a community dominated by Lactobacillus with pathogenic bacteria may be associated with implantation failure or early spontaneous abortion in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. Herein we describe taxonomically and functionally the endometrial microbiome of an infertile patient with repeated reproductive failures (involving an ectopic pregnancy and two clinical miscarriages). The microbiological follow-up is presented over 18-month in which the microbiota was evaluated in six endometrial fluid samples. The microbial profile of 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed a persistent infection with Gardnerella and other bacterial taxa such as Atopobium and Bifidobacterium. In addition, taxonomic and functional analysis by whole metagenome sequencing in the endometrial fluid sample collected before one clinical miscarriage suggested the presence of multiple Gardnerella vaginalis clades with a greater abundance of clade 4, usually associated with metronidazole resistance. These results revealed a persistent G. vaginalis endometrial colonization presenting genetic features consistent with antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation, and other virulence factors, which could be related to the reproductive failure observed.
Role of Wild Boar in the Spread of Classical Swine Fever in Japan
Authors: Ito Satoshi , Jurado Cristina , Bosch Jaime , Ito Mitsugi , Sánchez-Vizcaíno José Manuel , Isoda Norikazu , Sakoda Yoshihiro
Published: October 2019

Since September 2018, nearly 900 notifications of classical swine fever (CSF) have been reported in Gifu Prefecture (Japan) affecting domestic pig and wild boar by the end of August 2019. To determine the epidemiological characteristics of its spread, a spatio-temporal analysis was performed using actual field data on the current epidemic. The spatial study, based on standard deviational ellipses of official CSF notifications, showed that the disease likely spread to the northeast part of the prefecture. A maximum significant spatial association estimated between CSF notifications was 23 km by the multi-distance spatial cluster analysis. A space-time permutation analysis identified two significant clusters with an approximate radius of 12 and 20 km and 124 and 98 days of duration, respectively. When the area of the identified clusters was overlaid on a map of habitat quality, approximately 82% and 75% of CSF notifications, respectively, were found in areas with potential contact between pigs and wild boar. The obtained results provide information on the current CSF epidemic, which is mainly driven by wild boar cases with sporadic outbreaks on domestic pig farms. These findings will help implement control measures in Gifu Prefecture.
Utilization of in Vitro Anther Culture in Spelt Wheat Breeding
Authors: Lantos Csaba , Purgel Szandra , Ács Katalin , Langó Bernadett , Bóna Lajos , Boda Krisztina , Békés Ferenc , Pauk János
Published: October 2019

The efficiency of in vitro anther culture was screened in a full diallel population of four spelt wheat genotypes and ten F1 hybrids. Genotype dependency was observed based on the data of embryo-like structures (ELS), green-, albino plantlets. In the diallel population and ten F1 hybrids, the green plantlets production ranged from 13.75 to 85.00 and from 6.30 to 51.00, respectively. The anther culture-derived plants of F1 hybrids were grown up in the nursery. At the harvest, 436 spontaneous doubled haploid (DH) plants were identified among the 1535 anther culture-derived transplanted and grown up individual plants. The mean of spontaneous rediploidization was 28.4% which ranged from 9.76% to 54.24%. In two consecutive years, the agronomic values of ‘Tonkoly.pop1’ advanced line were compared with seven DH lines of ‘Tonkoly.pop1’ in the nursery. The DH lines achieved competitive values in comparison with ‘Tonkoly.pop1’ advanced line based on the 11 measured parameters (heading date, plant height, yield, hardness, width and length of seed, TKW, hulling yield, flour yield, protein and wet gluten content). These observations presage the efficient utilization of anther culture in spelt wheat breeding.
Organization Features of the Mitochondrial Genome of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) with ANN2-Type Male-Sterile Cytoplasm
Authors: Makarenko Maksim S. , Usatov Alexander V. , Tatarinova Tatiana V. , Azarin Kirill V. , Logacheva Maria D. , Gavrilova Vera A. , Kornienko Igor V. , Horn Renate
Published: October 2019

This study provides insights into the flexibility of the mitochondrial genome in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) as well as into the causes of ANN2-type cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS). De novo assembly of the mitochondrial genome of male-sterile HA89(ANN2) sunflower line was performed using high-throughput sequencing technologies. Analysis of CMS ANN2 mitochondrial DNA sequence revealed the following reorganization events: twelve rearrangements, seven insertions, and nine deletions. Comparisons of coding sequences from the male-sterile line with the male-fertile line identified a deletion of orf777 and seven new transcriptionally active open reading frames (ORFs): orf324, orf327, orf345, orf558, orf891, orf933, orf1197. Three of these ORFs represent chimeric genes involving atp6 (orf1197), cox2 (orf558), and nad6 (orf891). In addition, orf558, orf891, orf1197, as well as orf933, encode proteins containing membrane domain(s), making them the most likely candidate genes for CMS development in ANN2. Although the investigated CMS phenotype may be caused by simultaneous action of several candidate genes, we assume that orf1197 plays a major role in developing male sterility in ANN2. Comparative analysis of mitogenome organization in sunflower lines representing different CMS sources also allowed identification of reorganization hot spots in the mitochondrial genome of sunflower.
Micronutrient Status and Selected Physiological Parameters of Roots in Nickel-Exposed Sinapis alba L. Affected by Different Sulphur Levels
Authors: Matraszek-Gawron Renata , Hawrylak-Nowak Barbara
Published: October 2019

An efficient method of improving the micronutrient status of Ni-treated white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) using intensive S-SO4 nutrition was developed. Twelve variants of Hoagland’s nutrient solution differing in the concentration of S-SO4 (standard: 2 mM S, and elevated level: 6 or 9 mM S) and Ni (0, 0.0004, 0.04, or 0.08 mM Ni) were tested. The beneficial effect of intensive S nutrition on Ni-stressed plants was manifested by a significant rise in the content of Fe, Mn, and Zn, especially in the shoots. An increase was also found in the shoot B, Cu, and Mo content, whilst there were no changes in their root concentrations. Simultaneously, the shoot Cl concentrations dropped. The elevated level of S in the nutrient solution in general enhanced the translocation of Fe, Cu, Mo, and B in Ni-exposed plants. The beneficial effect of intensive S nutrition on the growth and micronutrient balance of Ni-exposed plants can be at least partially related to the positive changes in root surface properties, especially in cation exchange capacity (CEC). Meanwhile both reduced glutathione (GSH) and phytochelatins (PCs) probably do not significantly contribute to Ni resistance of white mustard under intensive S nutrition.
Genome-Wide Computational Identification of Biologically Significant Cis-Regulatory Elements and Associated Transcription Factors from Rice
Authors: Ho Chai-Ling , Geisler Matt
Published: October 2019

The interactions between transcription factors (TFs) and cis-acting regulatory elements (CREs) provide crucial information on the regulation of gene expression. The determination of TF-binding sites and CREs experimentally is costly and time intensive. An in silico identification and annotation of TFs, and the prediction of CREs from rice are made possible by the availability of whole genome sequence and transcriptome data. In this study, we tested the applicability of two algorithms developed for other model systems for the identification of biologically significant CREs of co-expressed genes from rice. CREs were identified from the DNA sequences located upstream from the transcription start sites, untranslated regions (UTRs), and introns, and downstream from the translational stop codons of co-expressed genes. The biologically significance of each CRE was determined by correlating their absence and presence in each gene with that gene’s expression profile using a meta-database constructed from 50 rice microarray data sets. The reliability of these methods in the predictions of CREs and their corresponding TFs was supported by previous wet lab experimental data and a literature review. New CREs corresponding to abiotic stresses, biotic stresses, specific tissues, and developmental stages were identified from rice, revealing new pieces of information for future experimental testing. The effectiveness of some—but not all—CREs was found to be affected by copy number, position, and orientation. The corresponding TFs that were most likely correlated with each CRE were also identified. These findings not only contribute to the prioritization of candidates for further analysis, the information also contributes to the understanding of the gene regulatory network.
Enhancement of Drought Tolerance in Cucumber Plants by Natural Carbon Materials
Authors: Kim Tae Yoon , Lee Sang-Hyo , Ku Hara , Lee Seung-Yop
Published: October 2019

Stress induced by climate change is a widespread and global phenomenon. Unexpected drought stress has a substantial effect on the growth and productivity of valuable crops. The effects of carbon materials on living organisms in response to abiotic stresses remain poorly understood. In this study, we proposed a new method for enhancing drought tolerance in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) using carbon nanotubes and natural carbon materials called shungite, which can be easily mixed into any soil. We analyzed the phenotype and physiological changes in cucumber plants grown under conditions of drought stress. Shungite-treated cucumber plants were healthier, with dark green leaves, than control plants when watering was withheld for 21 days. Furthermore, compared with the control cucumber group, in the shungite-treated plants, the monodehydroascorbate content of the leaf, which is a representative marker of oxidative damage, was 66% lower. In addition, major scavenger units of reactive oxygen species and related drought stress marker genes were significantly upregulated. These results indicate that successive pretreatment of soil with low-cost natural carbon material improved the tolerance of cucumber plants to drought stress.
Chemical, Enantioselective, and Sensory Analysis of a Cholinesterase Inhibitor Essential Oil from Coreopsis triloba S.F. Blake (Asteraceae)
Authors: Espinosa Sandra , Bec Nicole , Larroque Christian , Ramírez Jorge , Sgorbini Barbara , Bicchi Carlo , Gilardoni Gianluca
Published: October 2019

The fresh leaves of Coreopsis triloba S.F. Blake, collected at Cerro Villonaco in Loja, Ecuador, were investigated with respect to their essential oil (EO). The chemical composition was determined qualitatively through gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and quantitatively by gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization (GC-FID), using relative response factors (RRF) based on the enthalpy of combustion. The essential oil contained between 92.5% and 93.4% of monoterpene hydrocarbons, with (E)-β-ocimene being the main component (35.2–35.9%), followed by β-phellandrene (24.6–25.0%), α-pinene (15.3–15.9%), myrcene (10.9–11.0%), sabinene (2.2–2.4%), (Z)-β-ocimene (1.5%), and germacrene D (1.2–1.3%). The enantiomeric distribution of α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, and germacrene D was also determined. The main components responsible for the aroma were identified through aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA), a gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O) based technique, being α-pinene, β-pinene (0.6%), terpinolene (0.1%), α-copaene (0.1–0.3%), β-phellandrene, and (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene (0.1–0.2%) the main olfactory constituents according to the decreasing factor of dilution (FD) order. The biological tests showed IC50 inhibition values of 42.2 and 6.8 µg/mL for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), respectively.
Seasonal Changes in the Metabolic Profiles and Biological Activity in Leaves of Diospyros digyna and D. rekoi “Zapote” Trees
Authors: Ramírez-Briones Ernesto , Rodríguez-Macías Ramón , Salcedo-Pérez Eduardo , Ramírez-Chávez Enrique , Molina-Torres Jorge , Tiessen Axel , Ordaz-Ortiz José , Martínez-Gallardo Norma , Délano-Frier John P. , Zañudo-Hernández Julia
Published: October 2019

Leaves of semi-domesticated Diospyros digyna and wild D. rekoi trees, sampled seasonally in Mexico in 2014, were analyzed. Metabolic fingerprints revealed higher metabolite diversity in D. rekoi leaves. The TLC bands characteristic of glycosylated flavonoids, predominant in this species, matched the detection of quercetin and quercetin 3-O-glucuronides by liquid chromatography (UPLC-MS) of spring leaf extracts (LEs). Further gas chromatography (GC-MS) analysis revealed abundant fatty acids, organic acids, and secondary metabolites including trigonelline, p-coumaric, and ferulic and nicotinic acids. Phenolic-like compounds prevailed in D. digyna LEs, while unidentified triterpenoids and dihydroxylated coumarins were detected by UPLC-MS and GC-MS. A paucity of leaf metabolites in leaves of this species, compared to D. rekoi, was evident. Higher antioxidant capacity (AOC) was detected in D. digyna LEs. The AOC was season-independent in D. digyna but not in D. rekoi. The AOC in both species was concentrated in distinct TLC single bands, although seasonal variation in band intensity was observed among trees sampled. The AOC in D. digyna LEs could be ascribed to the coumarin esculetin. The LEs moderately inhibited phytopathogenic bacteria but not fungi. Leaf chemistry differences in these Mesoamerican Diospyros species substantiated previous variability reported in tree physiology and fruit physical chemistry, postulated to result from domestication and seasonality.
One-Dimensional Theoretical Solution and Two-Dimensional Numerical Simulation for Functionally-Graded Piezoelectric Cantilever Beams with Different Properties in Tension and Compression
Authors: He Xiao-Ting , Yang Zhi-Xin , Jing Hong-Xia , Sun Jun-Yi
Published: October 2019

The existing studies indicate polymers will present obviously different properties in tension and compression (bimodular effect) which is generally ignored because of the complexity of the analysis. In this study, a functionally graded piezoelectric cantilever beam with bimodular effect was investigated via analytical and numerical methods, respectively, in which a one-dimensional theoretical solution was derived by neglecting some unimportant factors and a two-dimensional numerical simulation was performed based on the model of tension-compression subarea. A full comparison was made to show the rationality of one-dimensional theoretical solution and two-dimensional numerical simulation. The result indicates that the layered model of tension-compression subarea also makes it possible to use numerical technique to simulate the problem of functionally graded piezoelectric cantilever beam with bimodular effect. Besides, the modulus of elasticity E* and the bending stiffness D* proposed in the one-dimensional problem may succinctly describe the piezoelectric effect on the classical mechanical problem without electromechanical coupling, which shows the advantages of one-dimensional solution in engineering applications, especially in the analysis and design of energy harvesting/sensing/actuating devices made of piezoelectric polymers whose bimodular effect is relatively obvious.
Lipase-Catalyzed Synthesis of Renewable Plant Oil-Based Polyamides
Authors: Finnveden Maja , Hendil-Forssell Peter , Claudino Mauro , Johansson Mats , Martinelle Mats
Published: October 2019

Enzyme catalyzed synthesis of renewable polyamides was investigated using Candida antarctica lipase B. A fatty acid-derived AB-type functional monomer, having one amine and one methyl ester functionality, was homopolymerized at 80 and 140 °C. Additionally, the organobase 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (TBD) was used as a catalyst. The results from the two catalysts were comparable. However, the amount of lipase added was 1.2 × 103 times lower, showing that the lipase was a more efficient catalyst for this system as compared to TBD. Moreover, the AB-type monomer was copolymerized with 1,12-diaminododecane to synthesize oligoamides of two different lengths.
The Effect of Glass Fiber Powder on the Properties of Waterborne Coatings with Thermochromic Ink on a Chinese Fir Surface
Authors: Yan Xiaoxing , Qian Xingyu , Chang Yijuan , Lu Rong , Miyakoshi Tetsuo
Published: October 2019

In this study, the effect of glass fiber powder on the properties of waterborne coatings with thermochromic ink was investigated, using Chinese fir board as the base material and temperature-sensitive thermochromic waterborne coatings with thermochromic ink as the paint base. The concentration of glass fiber powder was determined when the microstructure, optical properties, mechanical properties, liquid resistance, and heat preservation effect were the best. The results showed that the paint film with glass fiber powder concentration of 1.0% to 7.0% had better discoloration performance. With an increase of the glass fiber powder concentration, the gloss of the paint film decreased gradually, and when the concentration of glass fiber powder was 0% to 5.0%, the gloss of the paint film was better. The concentration of glass fiber powder had no effect on the adhesion, impact resistance, and liquid resistance. In the first 2.5 min, the temperature value of the waterborne coating with 3.0% glass fiber powder was higher than that without glass fiber powder, which has a certain heat preservation effect. When the glass fiber powder content was 3.0%, the microstructure of paint film was the best. The composition of paint film with different glass fiber powder concentrations was not different and the discoloration performance of paint film with heat preservation effect was not affected by time. The analysis showed that the waterborne coating with 3.0% glass fiber powder had the best comprehensive performance. This work provides a technical reference for the industrialization of heat preservation and thermochromic coating on wood.
Partially Acetylated Cellulose Dissolved in Aqueous Solution: Physical Properties and Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Alfassi Gilad , Rein Dmitry M. , Shpigelman Avi , Cohen Yachin
Published: October 2019

Cellulose acetate is one of the most important cellulose derivatives. The use of ionic liquids in cellulose processing was recently found to act both as a solvent and also as a reagent. A recent study showed that cellulose dissolution in the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoliumacetate (EMIMAc) mixed with dichloromethane (DCM) resulted in controlled homogenous cellulose acetylation; yielding water-soluble cellulose acetate (WSCA). This research investigated the properties of cellulose acetate prepared in this manner, in an aqueous solution. The results revealed that WSCA fully dissolves in water, with no significant sign of molecular aggregation. Its conformation in aqueous solution exhibited a very large persistence length, estimated as over 10 nm. The WSCA exhibited surface activity, significantly reducing the surface tension of water. Because of the molecular dissolution of WSCA in water, augmented by its amphiphilicity, aqueous solutions of WSCA exhibited an overwhelmingly high rate of enzymatic hydrolysis.
Determination of Mean Intrinsic Flexural Strength and Coupling Factor of Natural Fiber Reinforcement in Polylactic Acid Biocomposites
Authors: Tarrés Quim , Oliver-Ortega Helena , Espinach F. Xavier , Mutjé Pere , Delgado-Aguilar Marc , Méndez José A.
Published: October 2019

This paper is focused on the flexural properties of bleached kraft softwood fibers, bio-based, biodegradable, and a globally available reinforcement commonly used in papermaking, of reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites. The matrix, polylactic acid, is also a bio-based and biodegradable polymer. Flexural properties of composites incorporating percentages of reinforcement ranging from 15 to 30 wt % were measured and discussed. Another objective was to evaluate the strength of the interface between the matrix and the reinforcements, using the rule of mixtures to determine the coupling factor. Nonetheless, this rule of mixtures presents two unknowns, the coupling factor and the intrinsic flexural strength of the reinforcement. Hence, applying a ratio between the tensile and flexural intrinsic strengths and a defined fiber tensile and flexural strength factors, derived from the rule of mixtures is proposed. The literature lacks a precise evaluation of the intrinsic tensile strength of the reinforcements. In order to obtain such intrinsic tensile strength, we used the Kelly and Tyson modified equation as well as the solution provided by Bowyer and Bader. Finally, we were able to characterize the intrinsic flexural strengths of the fibers when used as reinforcement of polylactic acid.
Stripping of PFA Fluoropolymer Coatings Using a Nd:YAG Laser (Q-Switch) and an Yb Fiber Laser (CW)
Authors: Guerrero-Vaca Guillermo , Rodríguez-Alabanda Óscar , Romero Pablo E. , Soriano Carlos , Molero Esther , Lambarri Jon
Published: October 2019

Fluoropolymers such as PFA are used as coatings for the protection of metal substrates due to their high chemical inertia and non-stick properties. These are “wear and tear” coatings and they degrade, at which point they should be removed for a new application. The removal of these types of coating by laser is of interest due to the process’s flexibility, precision, ease of automation, and environmental sustainability. The efficiency of the procedure was shown with the use of a source in a pulsed Nd:YAG and a source in continuous mode of fiber (Yb). The rates of stripping (cm2/min) and fluence (J/cm2) were analyzed and related to the power of the laser sources. Variations of the substrate after stripping were studied: roughness and hardness. The properties of the coating, thickness, roughness, water sliding angle, and microhardness were also evaluated. It was concluded that the laser in continuous mode was more efficient than the pulsed laser; laser removal of fluoropolymers has a strong relationship with reflectivity, and the mechanical and surface properties of the substrate after stripping remained virtually unchanged.
Microwave-Assisted Classic Ullmann C–C Coupling Polymerization for Acceptor-Acceptor Homopolymers
Authors: Li Zijie , Chen Yusheng , Ye Pan , Jia Xiangli , Wu Xiaoxi , Wu Jianfei , Shi Qinqin , Peng Aidong , Huang Hui
Published: October 2019

Developing cheap, clean and atomic-efficient synthetic methodologies for conjugated polymers are always critical for the field of organic electronics. Herein, classic Ullmann coupling polymerization is developed to synthesize a series of Acceptor-Acceptor (A-A) type homopolymers with microwave-assistance, which are supported by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF), elemental analysis (EA) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The physicochemical properties of these polymers are studied by UV-vis spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry (CV), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Furthermore, these A-A homopolymers are used as acceptors for all-polymer solar cells (All-PSCs), affording a promising efficiency of 3.08%, which is the highest value for A-A-homopolymer-based organic solar cells.
Targeted Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Glaucoma: Most Advanced Systems Review
Authors: Cegielska Olga , Sajkiewicz Paweł
Published: October 2019

Each year, new glaucoma drug delivery systems are developed. Due to the chronic nature of the disease, it requires the inconvenient daily administration of medications. As a result of their elution from the eye surface and penetration to the bloodstream through undesired permeation routes, the bioavailability of active compounds is low, and systemic side effects occur. Despite numerous publications on glaucoma drug carriers of controlled drug release kinetics, only part of them consider drug permeation routes and, thus, carriers’ location, as an important factor affecting drug delivery. In this paper, we try to demonstrate the importance of the delivery proximal to glaucoma drug targets. The targeted delivery can significantly improve drug bioavailability, reduce side effects, and increase patients’ compliance compared to both commercial and scientifically developed formulations that can spread over the eye surface or stay in contact with conjunctival sac. We present a selection of glaucoma drug carriers intended to be placed on cornea or injected into the aqueous humor and that have been made by advanced materials using hi-tech forming methods, allowing for effective and convenient sustained antiglaucoma drug delivery.
Evolution of Dielectric Behavior of Regenerated Cellulose Film during Isothermal Dehydration Monitored in Real Time via Dielectric Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhao Hao , Chen Zhen , Du Xianfeng
Published: October 2019

The dielectric relaxation behavior of a regenerated cellulose (RC) film during isothermal dehydration was monitored in real time via dielectric spectroscopy, in order to investigate on one hand the influence of water on its dynamics and the variation of microstructure and phase composition during dehydration on the other. The progression of water loss is clearly revealed by the evolution of the dielectric relaxation behavior with drying time, which suggests two distinctly different drying stages separated by a striking transition period. The dielectric relaxation behavior at the first drying stage is found overwhelmingly dominated by ionic motion, and that at the second stage is basically a result of molecular dynamics. The mechanisms of these relaxations are proposed, through which the influence of water on the dynamics of the RC film and the variation of the microstructure and phase composition of the film at different hydration state are discussed in detail. An interesting finding is that highly ordered but noncrystalline arrangement of cellulose molecules exists, but it can be formed only when the film is in specific hydration state. This study demonstrates that dielectric spectroscopy is an effective tool in real-time monitoring kinetic process.
Relationships between Thermoplastic Type and Properties of Polymer-Triticale Boards
Authors: Mirski Radosław , Bekhta Pavlo , Dziurka Dorota
Published: October 2019

This study examined the effects of selected types of thermoplastics on the physical and mechanical properties of polymer-triticale boards. The investigated thermoplastics differed in their type (polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS)), form (granulate, agglomerate) and origin (native, recycled). The resulting five-ply boards contained layers made from different materials (straw or pine wood) and featured different moisture contents (2%, 25%, and 7% for the face, middle, and core layers, respectively). Thermoplastics were added only to two external layers, where they substituted 30% of straw particles. This study demonstrated that, irrespective of their type, thermoplastics added to the face layers most favorably reduced the hydrophobic properties of the boards, i.e., thickness, swelling, and V100, by nearly 20%. The bending strength and modulus of elasticity were about 10% lower in the experimental boards than in the reference ones, but still within the limits set out in standard for P7 boards (20 N/mm2 according to EN 312).
Crystalline Characteristics, Mechanical Properties, Thermal Degradation Kinetics and Hydration Behavior of Biodegradable Fibers Melt-Spun from Polyoxymethylene/Poly(l-lactic acid) Blends
Authors: Li Jianhua , Wang Yatao , Wang Xiaodong , Wu Dezhen
Published: October 2019

A series of polyoxymethylene (POM)/poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) blends were prepared by melt extrusion, and their spinnability was confirmed by rheological characterizations, successive self-nucleation, and annealing thermal fractionation analysis. The bicomponent fibers were prepared by means of the melt-spinning and post-drawing technologies using the above-obtained blends, and their morphology, crystalline orientation characteristics, mechanical performance, hydration behavior, and thermal degradation kinetics were studied extensively. The bicomponent fibers exhibited a uniform diameter distribution and compact texture at the ultimate draw ratio. Although the presence of PLLA reduced the crystallinity of the POM domain in the bicomponent fibers, the post-drawing process promoted the crystalline orientation of lamellar folded-chain crystallites due to the stress-induced crystallization effect and enhanced the crystallinity of the POM domain accordingly. As a result, the bicomponent fibers achieved the relatively high tensile strength of 791 MPa. The bicomponent fibers exhibited a partial hydration capability in both acid and alkali media and therefore could meet the requirement for serving as a type of biodegradable fibers. The introduction of PLLA slightly reduced the thermo-oxidative aging property and thermal stability of the bicomponent fibers. Such a combination of two polymers shortened the thermal lifetime of the bicomponent fibers, which could facilitate their natural degradation for ecological and sustainable applications.
Applicability of 1,6-Diphenylquinolin-2-one Derivatives as Fluorescent Sensors for Monitoring the Progress of Photopolymerisation Processes and as Photosensitisers for Bimolecular Photoinitiating Systems
Authors: Topa Monika , Petko Filip , Galek Mariusz , Machowski Kamil , Pilch Maciej , Szymaszek Patryk , Ortyl Joanna
Published: October 2019

The applicability of new 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-oneas derivatives as fluorescent molecular sensors for monitoring the progress of photopolymerisation processes by Fluorescence Probe Technique (FPT) has been tested. The progress of cationic, free-radical and thiol-ene photopolymerisation for commercially available monomers: triethylene glycol divinyl ether (TEGDVE), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and trimethylpropane tris(3-mercaptopropropionate) (MERCAPTO) was monitored. It was found that new derivatives of 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-one shifted their fluorescence spectra towards shorter wavelengths with the progress of polymerisation, which enabled monitoring the progress in terms of fluorescence intensity ratios as the progress indicator. Derivatives of 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-one show sensitivity to changes in both polarity and viscosity in the surrounding microenvironment during photopolymerisation processes. Therefore, it was shown that they are good candidates to act as fluorescent sensors for monitoring the kinetics of very quick processes, such as photopolymerisation processes. Furthermore, the effect of the nature of substituents attached to the 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-one ring on the characteristics of emission spectra was identified. Moreover, the sensitivity of fluorescent sensors was compared with commercially available model sensors, such as 7-diethylamino-4-methylcoumarin (Coumarin 1) and trans-2-(2′,5′-dimethoxyphenyl)ethenyl-2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzene (25ST). Moreover, it was also proven that selected derivatives of 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-one exhibit an accelerating effect on the progress of cationic photopolymerisation of vinyl monomers (TEGDVE). Thus, the new 1,6-diphenylquinolin-2-one derivatives can be successfully used both as molecular fluorescence sensors to monitor the progress of photopolymerisation processes and as diaryliodonium salt photosensitisers to initiate cationic photopolymerisation processes in a UV-A range of 365 nm.
Electrochromic Self-Electrostabilized Polypyrrole Films Doped with Surfactant and Azo Dye
Authors: Bayat Maryam , Izadan Hossein , Molina Brenda G. , Sánchez Margarita , Santiago Sara , Semnani Dariush , Dinari Mohammad , Guirado Gonzalo , Estrany Francesc , Alemán Carlos
Published: October 2019

Two azo dyes, acid red 1 (AR1) and acid red 18 (AR18), were used alone or in combination with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) for the electropolymerization of a pyrrole monomer. Polypyrrole (PPy) showed higher redox capacity when SDS and AR18 were used simultaneously as dopant agents (PPy/AR18-SDS) than when the conducting polymer was produced in the presence of SDS, AR18, AR1, or an AR1/SDS mixture. Moreover, PPy/AR18-SDS is a self-stabilizing material that exhibits increasing electrochemical activity with the number of oxidation–reduction cycles. A mechanism supported by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction structural observations was proposed to explain the synergy between the SDS surfactant and the AR18 dye. On the other hand, the Bordeaux red color of PPy/AR18-SDS, which exhibits an optical band gap of 1.9 eV, rapidly changed to orange-yellow and blue colors when films were reduced and oxidized, respectively, by applying linear or step potential ramps. Overall, the results indicate that the synergistic utilization of AR18 and SDS as dopant agents in the same polymerization reaction is a very successful and advantageous strategy for the preparation of PPy films with cutting-edge electrochemical and electrochromic properties.
Synthesis, Characterisation and Biological Evaluation of Ampicillin–Chitosan–Polyanion Nanoparticles Produced by Ionic Gelation and Polyelectrolyte Complexation Assisted by High-Intensity Sonication
Authors: Ciro Yhors , Rojas John , Oñate-Garzon Jose , Salamanca Constain H.
Published: October 2019

Recently, one of the promising strategies to fight sensitive and resistant bacteria, and decrease the morbidity and mortality rates due to non-nosocomial infections, is to use antibiotic-loaded nanoparticles. In this study, ampicillin-loaded chitosan–polyanion nanoparticles were produced through the techniques of ionic gelation and polyelectrolyte complexation assisted by high-intensity sonication, using several crosslinking agents, including phytic acid (non-polymeric polyanion), sodium and potassium salts of poly(maleic acid-alt-ethylene) and poly(maleic acid-alt-octadecene) (polymeric polyanions). These nanoparticles were analysed and characterised in terms of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency. The stability of these nanosystems was carried out at temperatures of 4 and 40 °C, and the antimicrobial effect was determined by the broth microdilution method using sensitive and resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains. The results reveal that most of the nanosystems have sizes <220 nm, positive zeta potential values and a monodisperse population, except for the nanoparticles crosslinked with PAM-18 polyanions. The nanometric systems exhibited adequate stability preventing aggregation and revealed a two-fold increase in antimicrobial activity when compared with free ampicillin. This study demonstrates the potential application of synthesised nanoparticles in the field of medicine, especially for treating infections caused by pathogenic S. aureus strains.
The Appropriation of Popular Culture: A Sensational Way of Practicing Evangelism of Korean Churches
Authors: Lee Min Hyoung
Published: October 2019

Since the end of the 20th century, Korean churches have awakened to the fact that pop culture is enjoyed by a large segment of the population and thus provides a natural bridge between Christians and non-Christians. As a result, many Korean churches utilize popular cultural elements that Christians and non-Christians relish, such as movies, music videos, and images, as a way of demonstrating their evangelistic invitation to the world. They appropriate famous pop culture contents and present slightly modified materials through various channels, such as church websites, social media, and YouTube. This study focuses on the artistic technique of the evangelistic materials that Korean churches create. Based on the artistic understanding of appropriation, parody, and pastiche, this study examines whether the evangelistic imitations are “parodies” as they are introduced by their creators. I also look at ways another artistic style, “pastiches,” might be more suitable to those appropriations than “parodies.” Employing insights from the artistic analysis, this study explores which artistic style might be a better way of providing imitations of popular culture not so much as superficial entertainment but as a serious way to communicate the gospel. This will show how to appropriate popular culture as both faithful and efficient evangelistic methods.
Open Collaboration as Marketing Transformation Strategy in Online Markets: The Case of the Fashion Sector
Authors: Lorenzo-Romero Carlota , Cordente-Rodríguez María , Alarcón-del-Amo María-del-Carmen
Published: October 2019

An increasing number of companies engage with global markets due to technological advances, digitalisation and the homogenisation of consumers’ tastes. Taking into account the consumers’ opinion becomes more important in the current global output. On the other hand, the use of social media promotes the interaction between companies and users, and they are considered to be key elements in generating socialisation and, in addition, they contribute to generating images, communicating and improving participation. This interaction represents the moment in which value is generated in the commercial offer. In this context, the co-creation as marketing strategy is considered a very useful tool to approach the consumers and, thus, facilitate the global result, becoming social media as an important resource for management. The aim of this paper is to show the relevance of the global marketing strategy in fashion and accessories’ retail sector, as well as to study the role that companies grant to co-creation such as strategy which allows approaching consumer in those international markets. For this purpose, we will focus on Spanish firms in the fashion and accessories industry. In sum, this qualitative study, analysed using Atlas.ti® software, leads to a new paradigm which represents the transition of a brand model based on proposing solutions, proposals, and collective responses, to a business model that increasingly develops proposals, solutions and individual responses.
Combining Evapotranspiration and Soil Apparent Electrical Conductivity Mapping to Identify Potential Precision Irrigation Benefits
Authors: Nocco Mallika A. , Zipper Samuel C. , Booth Eric G. , Cummings Cadan R. , Loheide Steven P. , Kucharik Christopher J.
Published: October 2019

Precision irrigation optimizes the spatiotemporal application of water using evapotranspiration (ET) maps to assess water stress or soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) maps as a proxy for plant available water content. However, ET and ECa maps are rarely used together. We developed high-resolution ET and ECa maps for six irrigated fields in the Midwest United States between 2014–2016. Our research goals were to (1) validate ET maps developed using the High-Resolution Mapping of EvapoTranspiration (HRMET) model and aerial imagery via comparison with ground observations in potato, sweet corn, and pea agroecosystems; (2) characterize relationships between ET and ECa; and (3) identify potential precision irrigation benefits across rotations. We demonstrated the synergy of combined ET and ECa mapping for evaluating whether intrafield differences in ECa correspond to actual water use for different crop rotations. We found that ET and ECa have stronger relationships in sweet corn and potato rotations than field corn. Thus, sweet corn and potato crops may benefit more from precision irrigation than field corn, even when grown rotationally on the same field. We recommend that future research consider crop rotation, intrafield soil variability, and existing irrigation practices together when determining potential water use, savings, and yield gains from precision irrigation.
The Effect of Attenuation from Fish Shoals on Long-Range, Wide-Area Acoustic Sensing in the Ocean
Authors: Duane Daniel , Cho Byunggu , Jain Ankita D. , Godø Olav Rune , Makris Nicholas C.
Published: October 2019

Acoustics is the primary means of long-range and wide-area sensing in the ocean due to the severe attenuation of electromagnetic waves in seawater. While it is known that densely packed fish groups can attenuate acoustic signals during long-range propagation in an ocean waveguide, previous experimental demonstrations have been restricted to single line transect measurements of either transmission or backscatter and have not directly investigated wide-area sensing and communication issues. Here we experimentally show with wide-area sensing over 360° in the horizontal and ranges spanning many tens of kilometers that a single large fish shoal can significantly occlude acoustic sensing over entire sectors spanning more than 30° with corresponding decreases in detection ranges by roughly an order of magnitude. Such blockages can comprise significant impediments to underwater acoustic remote sensing and surveillance of underwater vehicles, marine life and geophysical phenomena as well as underwater communication. This makes it important to understand the relevant mechanisms and accurately predict attenuation from fish in long-range underwater acoustic sensing and communication. To do so, we apply an analytical theory derived from first principles for acoustic propagation and scattering through inhomogeneities in an ocean waveguide to model propagation through fish shoals. In previous experiments, either the attenuation from fish in the shoal or the scattering cross sections of fish in the shoal were measured but not both, making it impossible to directly confirm a theoretical prediction on attenuation through the shoal. Here, both measurements have been made and they experimentally confirm the waveguide theory presented. We find experimentally and theoretically that attenuation can be significant when the sensing frequency is near the resonance frequency of the shoaling fish. Negligible attenuation was observed in previous low-frequency ocean acoustic waveguide remote sensing (OAWRS) experiments because the sensing frequency was sufficiently far from the swimbladder resonance peak of the shoaling fish or the packing densities of the fish shoals were not sufficiently high. We show that common heuristic approaches that employ free space scattering assumptions for attenuation from fish groups can lead to significant errors for applications involving long-range waveguide propagation and scattering.