bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome Changes in the Mink Uterus during Blastocyst Dormancy and Reactivation
Authors: Cao Xinyan , Zhao Jiaping , Liu Yong , Ba Hengxing , Wei Haijun , Zhang Yufei , Wang Guiwu , Murphy Bruce D. , Xing Xiumei
Published: April 2019

Embryo implantation in the mink follows the pattern of many carnivores, in that preimplantation embryo diapause occurs in every gestation. Details of the gene expression and regulatory networks that terminate embryo diapause remain poorly understood. Illumina RNA-Seq was used to analyze global gene expression changes in the mink uterus during embryo diapause and activation leading to implantation. More than 50 million high quality reads were generated, and assembled into 170,984 unigenes. A total of 1684 differential expressed genes (DEGs) in uteri with blastocysts in diapause were compared to the activated embryo group (p < 0.05). Among these transcripts, 1527 were annotated as known genes, including 963 up-regulated and 564 down-regulated genes. The gene ontology terms for the observed DEGs, included cellular communication, phosphatase activity, extracellular matrix and G-protein couple receptor activity. The KEGG pathways, including PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, focal adhesion and extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interactions were the most enriched. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and hub nodes such as VEGFA, EGF, AKT, IGF1, PIK3C and CCND1 with high degrees of connectivity represent gene clusters expected to play an important role in embryo activation. These results provide novel information for understanding the molecular mechanisms of maternal regulation of embryo activation in mink.
Behavioural Phenotypic Plasticity of Submerged Oviposition in Damselflies (Insecta: Odonata)
Authors: Helebrandová Jana Branwen , Pyszko Petr , Dolný Aleš
Published: April 2019

Emerald damselfly Lestes sponsa is a common species within the temperate zone, with no special need for protection. The tactic of submerged oviposition is well known from other Odonata species, but has rarely been noticed or described in Lestes sponsa. Our study investigated the tactics of oviposition in this species, and shows that submerged oviposition indeed occurs frequently in Lestes sponsa. We experimentally tested the difference in the roles of males and females during the submerged ovipositional behaviour by combining males/females from submerging populations with males/females from non-submerging populations. We discovered that, whereas submerging males coupling with non-submerging females did not lead to submersion, the opposite combination of pairs submerged. Other patterns of submersions are discussed further in this paper. Our research led to the conclusion that damselflies have the ability to learn and react to different situations in keeping with the learning potential of insects in general.
Preoperative Health-Related Quality of Life Predicts Minimal Clinically Important Difference and Survival after Surgical Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chiu Chong-Chi , Lee King-Teh , Wang Jhi-Joung , Sun Ding-Ping , Lee Hao-Hsien , Huang Chien-Cheng , Shi Hon-Yi
Published: April 2019

Despite the growing use of minimal clinically important difference (MCID) as a cancer outcome measure, no study has reported clinically significant outcomes in cancer patients. We defined MCID and evaluated the use of preoperative HRQoL for predicting MCID and survival after surgical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In total, 369 patients completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Hepatobiliary (FACT-Hep) and the SF-36 at baseline and at two years post-operative at three tertiary academic hospitals. The corresponding MCID values were 3.6 (SF-36 physical component summary), 4.2 (SF-36 mental component summary), 5.4 (FACT-General total score), and 6.7 (FACT-Hep total score). The predictors of achieving postoperative MCID were significantly higher in patients who had low preoperative HRQoL score, advanced age, high education level, and high BMI (p < 0.05). However, patients with a high preoperative HRQoL score, high education level, high BMI, and low Charlson comorbidity index score were significantly associated with survival (p < 0.05). Preoperative HRQoL scores were predictive of MCID and overall survival after surgical resection of HCC. The findings of this study may be useful for managing the preoperative expectations of candidates for HCC resection and for developing shared decision-making procedures for patients undergoing surgical resection of HCC.
The Beneficial Effect of Acute Exercise on Motor Memory Consolidation is Modulated by Dopaminergic Gene Profile
Authors: Christiansen Lasse , Thomas Richard , Beck Mikkel M. , Pingel Jessica , Andersen Jeppe D. , Mang Cameron S. , Madsen Mads A. J. , Roig Marc , Lundbye-Jensen Jesper
Published: April 2019

When aerobic exercise is performed following skilled motor practice, it can enhance motor memory consolidation. Previous studies have suggested that dopamine may play a role in motor memory consolidation, but whether it is involved in the exercise effects on consolidation is unknown. Hence, we aimed to investigate the influence of dopaminergic pathways on the exercise-induced modulation of motor memory consolidation. We compared the effect of acute exercise on motor memory consolidation between the genotypes that are known to affect dopaminergic transmission and learning. By combining cluster analyses and fitting linear models with and without included polymorphisms, we provide preliminary evidence that exercise benefits the carriers of alleles that are associated with low synaptic dopamine content. In line with previous reports, our findings implicate dopamine as a modulator of the exercise-induced effects on motor memory consolidation, and suggest exercise as a potential clinical tool to counteract low endogenous dopamine bioavailability. Further experiments are needed to establish causal relations.
Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapy of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Van Acker Heleen H. , Versteven Maarten , Lichtenegger Felix S. , Roex Gils , Campillo-Davo Diana , Lion Eva , Subklewe Marion , Van Tendeloo Viggo F. , Berneman Zwi N. , Anguille Sébastien
Published: April 2019

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of blood cancer characterized by the uncontrolled clonal proliferation of myeloid hematopoietic progenitor cells in the bone marrow. The outcome of AML is poor, with five-year overall survival rates of less than 10% for the predominant group of patients older than 65 years. One of the main reasons for this poor outcome is that the majority of AML patients will relapse, even after they have attained complete remission by chemotherapy. Chemotherapy, supplemented with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients at high risk of relapse, is still the cornerstone of current AML treatment. Both therapies are, however, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. These observations illustrate the need for more effective and less toxic treatment options, especially in elderly AML and have fostered the development of novel immune-based strategies to treat AML. One of these strategies involves the use of a special type of immune cells, the dendritic cells (DCs). As central orchestrators of the immune system, DCs are key to the induction of anti-leukemia immunity. In this review, we provide an update of the clinical experience that has been obtained so far with this form of immunotherapy in patients with AML.
Incidental Finding of Strut Malapposition Is a Predictor of Late and Very Late Thrombosis in Coronary Bioresorbable Scaffolds
Authors: Boeder Niklas F. , Weissner Melissa , Blachutzik Florian , Ullrich Helen , Anadol Remzi , Tröbs Monique , Münzel Thomas , Hamm Christian W. , Dijkstra Jouke , Achenbach Stephan , Nef Holger M. , Gori Tommaso
Published: April 2019

Malapposition is a common finding in stent and scaffold thrombosis (ScT). Evidence from studies with prospective follow-up, however, is scarce. We hypothesized that incidental observations of strut malapposition might be predictive of late ScT during subsequent follow-up. One hundred ninety-seven patients were enrolled in a multicentre registry with prospective follow-up. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), performed in an elective setting, was available in all at 353 (0–376) days after bioresorbable scaffold (BRS) implantation. Forty-four patients showed evidence of malapposition that was deemed not worthy of intervention. Malapposition was not associated with any clinical or procedural parameter except for a higher implantation pressure (p = 0.0008). OCT revealed that malapposition was associated with larger vessel size, less eccentricity (all p < 0.01), and a tendency for more uncovered struts (p = 0.06). Late or very late ScT was recorded in seven of these patients 293 (38–579) days after OCT. OCT-diagnosed malapposition was a predictor of late and very late scaffold thrombosis (p < 0.001) that was independent of the timing of diagnosis. We provide evidence that an incidental finding of malapposition—regardless of the timing of diagnosis of the malapposition—during an elective exam is a predictor of late and very late ScT. Our data provide a rationale to consider prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy if strut malapposition is observed.
Noise Reduction Scheme for Parametric Loop Division 3D Wireless Localization Algorithm Based on Extended Kalman Filtering
Authors: Ahmad Tanveer , Li Xue Jun , Seet Boon-Chong
Published: April 2019

Thanks to IEEE 802.15.4 defining the operation of low-rate wireless personal area networks (LR-WPANs), the door is open for localizing sensor nodes using tiny, low power digital radios such as Zigbee. In this paper, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) localization scheme based on well-known loop invariant for division algorithm. Parametric points are proposed by using the reference anchor points bounded in an outer region named as Parametric Loop Division (PLD) algorithm. Similar to other range-based localization methods, PLD is often influenced by measurement noise which greatly degrades the performance of PLD algorithm. We propose to adopt extended Kalman filtering (EKF) to refine node coordinates to mitigate the measurement noise. We provide an analytical framework for the proposed scheme and find the lower bound for its localization accuracy. Simulation results show that compared with the existing PLD algorithm, our technique always achieves better positioning accuracy regardless of network topology, communication radius, noise statistics, and the node degree of the network. The proposed scheme PLD-EKF provides an average localization accuracy of 0.42 m with a standard deviation of 0.26 m.
The Solution of Backward Heat Conduction Problem with Piecewise Linear Heat Transfer Coefficient
Authors: Yu Yang , Luo Xiaochuan , Zhang Huaxi (Yulin) , Zhang Qingxin
Published: April 2019

In the fields of continuous casting and the roll stepped cooling, the heat transfer coefficient is piecewise linear. However, few papers discuss the solution of the backward heat conduction problem in this situation. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to solve the backward heat conduction problem, which has the piecewise linear heat transfer coefficient. Firstly, the ill-posed of this problem is discussed and the truncated regularized optimization scheme is introduced to solve this problem. Secondly, because the regularization parameter is the key factor for the regularization method, this paper presents an improved method for choosing the regularization parameter to reduce the iterative number and proves the fourth-order convergence of this method. Furthermore, the numerical simulation experiments show that, compared with other methods, the improved method of fourth-order convergence effectively reduces the iterative number. Finally, the truncated regularized optimization scheme is used to estimate the initial temperature, and the results of numerical simulation experiments illustrate that the inverse values match the exact values very well.
Linguistic Neutrosophic Numbers Einstein Operator and Its Application in Decision Making
Authors: Fan Changxing , Feng Sheng , Hu Keli
Published: April 2019

Linguistic neutrosophic numbers (LNNs) include single-value neutrosophic numbers and linguistic variable numbers, which have been proposed by Fang and Ye. In this paper, we define the linguistic neutrosophic number Einstein sum, linguistic neutrosophic number Einstein product, and linguistic neutrosophic number Einstein exponentiation operations based on the Einstein operation. Then, we analyze some of the relationships between these operations. For LNN aggregation problems, we put forward two kinds of LNN aggregation operators, one is the LNN Einstein weighted average operator and the other is the LNN Einstein geometry (LNNEWG) operator. Then we present a method for solving decision-making problems based on LNNEWA and LNNEWG operators in the linguistic neutrosophic environment. Finally, we apply an example to verify the feasibility of these two methods.
Area Properties of Strictly Convex Curves
Authors: Kim Dong-Soo , Kim Young Ho , Jung Yoon-Tae
Published: April 2019

We study functions defined in the plane E 2 in which level curves are strictly convex, and investigate area properties of regions cut off by chords on the level curves. In this paper we give a partial answer to the question: Which function has level curves whose tangent lines cut off from a level curve segment of constant area? In the results, we give some characterization theorems regarding conic sections.
The Role of Acoustic Pressure during Solidification of AlSi7Mg Alloy in Sand Mold Casting
Authors: Puga H. , Barbosa J. , Carneiro V. H.
Published: April 2019

New alloy processes have been developed and casting techniques are continuously evolving. Such constant development implies a consequent development and optimization of melt processing and treatment. The present work proposes a method for studying the influence of acoustic pressure in the overall refinement of sand cast aluminum alloys, using and correlating experimental and numerical approaches. It is shown that the refinement/modification of the α-Al matrix is a consequence of the acoustic activation caused in the liquid metal directly below the face of the acoustic radiator. Near the feeder, there is a clear homogeneity in the morphology of the α-Al with respect to grain size and grain circularity. However, the damping of acoustic pressure as the melt is moved away from the feeder increases and the influence of ultrasound is reduced, even though the higher cooling rate seems to compensate for this effect.
Evolution of White Etching Bands in 100Cr6 Bearing Steel under Rolling Contact-Fatigue
Authors: Fu Hanwei , Rivera-Díaz-del-Castillo Pedro E. J.
Published: April 2019

The formation of white etching bands (WEBs) occurs at the subsurface of rolling contact-fatigued bearing inner rings, exhibiting microstructural decay detrimental to bearing life. Despite the fact that WEBs have been observed in bearing steels for nearly 70 years, the understanding of WEB formation is still limited and mostly qualitative. Therefore, a systematic investigation is carried out in this research to reveal the evolution of WEBs with respect to the number of contact cycles. WEBs formed at different stages are reproduced by full-scale bearing RCF tests with predetermined numbers of cycles. Multi-scale characterisation techniques such as optical microscopy, micro-indentation, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy are conducted on the microstructural alterations to study the development and microstructure of WEBs. WEBs are found in the absence of dark etching regions which is attributed to the heat treatment. With an increasing number of cycles, WEBs grow in number density and in all three dimensions, and their formation is found to be controlled by the maximum shear stress component. Ferrite bands within WEBs that contain dislocation cells manifest accumulated plastic strain in the material. Based on the characterisation results, the evolution of plastic strain under RCF is quantified.
Fabrication, Characterization, and Application of Large-Scale Uniformly Hybrid Nanoparticle-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Substrates
Authors: Qi Qi , Liu Chunhui , Liu Lintao , Meng Qingyi , Wei Shuhua , Ming Anjie , Zhang Jing , Wang Yanrong , Wu Lidong , Zhu Xiaoli , Wei Feng , Yan Jiang
Published: April 2019

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates with high sensitivity and reproducibility are highly desirable for high precision and even molecular-level detection applications. Here, large-scale uniformly hybrid nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (NERS) substrates with high reproducibility and controllability were developed. Using oxygen plasma treatment, large-area and uniformly rough polystyrene sphere (URPS) arrays in conjunction with 20 nm Au films (AuURPS) were fabricated for SERS substrates. Au nanoparticles and clusters covered the surface of the URPS arrays, and this increased the Raman signal. In the detection of malachite green (MG), the fabricated NERS substrates have high reproducibility and sensitivity. The enhancement factor (EF) of Au nanoparticles and clusters was simulated by finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations and the EF was more than 104. The measured EF of our developed substrate was more than 108 with a relative standard deviation as low as 6.64%–13.84% over 15 points on the substrate. The minimum limit for the MG molecules reached 50 ng/mL. Moreover, the Raman signal had a good linear relationship with the logarithmic concentration of MG, as it ranged from 50 ng/mL to 5 μg/mL. The NERS substrates proposed in this work may serve as a promising detection scheme in chemical and biological fields.
Effect of Process Parameters on Organic Micro Patterns Fabricated on a Flexible Substrate Using the Near-Field Electrohydrodynamic Direct-Writing Method
Authors: Chen Jianzhou , Wu Ting , Zhang Libing , Li Peng , Feng Xiaowei , Li Dazhen
Published: April 2019

A micro pattern is a key component of various functional devices. In the present study, using the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) mixed material as the direct-writing solution and photographic paper as the flexible insulating substrate, the organic micro patterns of various shapes, such as the curve of the second-order self-similar structure, the helical curve, and the wave curve, were fabricated on the flexible insulating substrate by using the near-field electrohydrodynamic direct-writing method. The effects of process parameters, such as the applied voltage, direct-writing height, flow rate of the injection system, and moving velocity of the substrate, on the width and the conductivity of the organic micro patterns were studied in the near-field electrohydrodynamic direct-writing process. The results show that the width of an organic micro pattern increases with the increase of the applied voltage of the high-voltage power supplier and the flow rate of the injection system under the condition where the three other process parameters remained constant, respectively, while the width of an organic micro pattern decreases with the increase of the direct-writing height and the moving velocity of the flexible substrate, respectively. The fabricated organic microcircuit patterns of the natural drying in air at room temperature were tested by a thin film thermoelectric tester at a detection temperature. The results show that the conductivity of a fabricated organic micro pattern decreases with the increase of the electric field intensity, while the effect of moving velocity and the flow rate on the conductivity is small under the condition where the three other process parameters remained constant.
The Influence of Fungicide Treatments on Mycobiota of Grapes and Its Evolution During Fermentation Evaluated by Metagenomic and Culture-Dependent Methods
Authors: Agarbati Alice , Canonico Laura , Mancabelli Leonardo , Milani Christian , Ventura Marco , Ciani Maurizio , Comitini Francesca
Published: April 2019

The present study evaluated the impact of organic and conventional fungicide treatments compared with untreated samples (no fungicides were used) on the grape berry yeast community of the Montepulciano variety. The yeast dynamics during the spontaneous fermentation using culture-dependent and -independent methods was also evaluated. Results showed a reduction of yeast biodiversity by conventional treatments determining a negative influence on fermenting yeasts in favor of oxidative yeasts such as Aerobasidium pullulans. Starmerella bacillaris was significantly more present in organic samples (detected by next generation sequencing (NGS)), while Hanseniaspopa uvarum was significantly less present in untreated samples (detected by the culture-dependent method). The fermenting yeasts, developed during the spontaneous fermentation, were differently present depending on the fungicide treatments used. Culture-dependent and -independent methods exhibited the same most abundant yeast species during the spontaneous fermentation but a different relative abundance. Differently, the NGS method was able to detect a greater biodiversity (lower abundant species) in comparison with the culture-dependent method. In this regard, the methodologies used gave a different picture of yeast dynamics during the fermentation process. The results indicated that the fungal treatments can influence the yeast community of grapes leading must fermentation and the final composition of wine.
Kinetic Analysis of Digestate Slow Pyrolysis with the Application of the Master-Plots Method and Independent Parallel Reactions Scheme
Authors: Bartocci Pietro , Tschentscher Roman , Stensrød Ruth Elisabeth , Barbanera Marco , Fantozzi Francesco
Published: April 2019

The solid fraction obtained by mechanical separation of digestate from anaerobic digestion plants is an attractive feedstock for the pyrolysis process. Especially in the case of digestate obtained from biogas plants fed with energy crops, this can be considered a lignin rich residue. The aim of this study is to investigate the pyrolytic kinetic characteristics of solid digestate. The Starink model-free method has been used for the kinetic analysis of the pyrolysis process. The average Activation Energy value is about 204.1 kJ/mol, with a standard deviation of 25 kJ/mol, which corresponds to the 12% of the average value. The activation energy decreased along with the conversion degree. The variation range of the activation energy is about 99 kJ/mol, this means that the average value cannot be used to statistically represent the whole reaction. The Master-plots method was used for the determination of the kinetic model, obtaining that n-order was the most probable one. On the other hand, the process cannot be modeled with a single-step reaction. For this reason it has been used an independent parallel reactions scheme to model the complete process.
Simultaneous Determination of Bufalin and Its Nine Metabolites in Rat Plasma for Characterization of Metabolic Profiles and Pharmacokinetic Study by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Wei Wenlong , Yu Yang , Wang Xia , Yang Linhui , Zhang Hang , Ji Hongjian , Li Zhenwei , Hou Jinjun , Wu Wanying , Guo Dean
Published: April 2019

Characterization and determination of metabolites to monitor metabolic pathways play a paramount role in evaluating the efficacy and safety of medicines. However, the separation and quantification of metabolites are rather difficult due to their limited contents in vivo, especially in the case of Chinese medicine, due to its complexity. In this study, an effective and convenient method was developed to simultaneously quantify bufalin and its nine metabolites (semi-quantitation) in rat plasma after an oral administration of 10 mg/kg to rats. The prototype and metabolites that were identified were subsequently quantified using positive electrospray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode with transitions of m/z 387.4→369.6 and 387.4→351.3 for bufalin, m/z 513.7→145.3 for IS, and 387.4→369.6, 419.2→365.2, and 403.2→349.2 for the main metabolites (3-epi-bufalin, dihydroxylated bufalin, and hydroxylated bufalin, respectively). The method was validated over the calibration curve range of 1.00–100 ng/mL with a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 1 ng/mL for bufalin. No obvious matrix effect was observed, and the intra- and inter-day precisions, as well as accuracy, were all within the acceptable criteria in this method. Then, this method was successfully applied in metabolic profiling and a pharmacokinetic study of bufalin after an oral administration of 10 mg/kg to rats. The method of simultaneous determination of bufalin and its nine metabolites in rat plasma could be useful for pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic relationship research of bufalin, providing experimental evidence for explaining the occurrence of some adverse effects of Venenum Bufonis and its related preparations.
New Cadinane Sesquiterpenes from the Stems of Kadsura heteroclita
Authors: Cao Liang , Shehla Nuzhat , Tasneem Shumaila , Cao Mengru , Sheng Wenbing , Jian Yuqing , Li Bin , Peng Caiyun , Choudhary M. Iqbal , Atta-ur-Rahman  , Liao Duan-fang , Wang Wei
Published: April 2019

As part of our continual efforts to exploit ‘Tujia Ethnomedicine’ for their pharmacophoric functionalities, we herein investigated Kadsura heteroclita collected from a deep Wulin mountain area in northern Hunan province. The current study resulted in the isolation of three new sesquiterpenes: 6α,9α,15-trihydroxycadinan-4-en-3-one (1), (+)-3,11,12-trihydroxycalamenene (2), (–)-3,10,11,12-tetrahydroxy-calamenene (3), along with four known sesquiterpenes (4–7), and a cytochalasin H (8). Their chemical structures were elucidated by 1D-, and 2D-NMR spectroscopy, and HRESI-MS, CD spectrometry. The antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of the compounds were evaluated. Compound 8 exhibited a strong antioxidant effect with an IC50 value of 3.67 µM on isolated human polymorphonuclear cells or neutrophils.
In Situ Incorporation of Diamino Silane Group into Waterborne Polyurethane for Enhancing Surface Hydrophobicity of Coating
Authors: Lyu Jinghui , Xu Kaiyue , Zhang Ning , Lu Chunshan , Zhang Qunfeng , Yu Lu , Feng Feng , Li Xiaonian
Published: April 2019

A series of waterborne polyurethanes (WPU) with crosslinked siloxane were obtained through introducing 3-(2-aminoethylamino)propyldimethoxymethylsilane (APTS) into WPU by in situ polymerization. The properties of WPU modified by APTS were studied through a variety of experimental methods. The water contact angle of the WPU coating surface increased from 64° to 86°, and the water resistance reduced to 3.90% when 3 wt% APTS was added, which improved the coating surface hydrophobicity. Firstly, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and 1H-NMR spectra demonstrated the successful incorporation of APTS to polyurethanes and completed the hydrolytic condensation reaction-generated Si–O–Si crosslinking structure. Furthermore, the surface energy of the membrane was reduced when the crosslinking structure migrated and enriched on the surface of film. Besides, the crosslinking structure was abundant, and the distribution of siloxane in WPU was more uniform.
A Limonoid, 7-Deacetoxy-7-Oxogedunin (CG-1) from Andiroba (Carapa guianensis, Meliaceae) Lowers the Accumulation of Intracellular Lipids in Adipocytes via Suppression of IRS-1/Akt-Mediated Glucose Uptake and a Decrease in GLUT4 Expression
Authors: Matsumoto Chihiro , Koike Atsushi , Tanaka Reiko , Fujimori Ko
Published: April 2019

Limonoids are phytochemicals with a variety of biological properties. In the present study, we elucidated the molecular mechanism of suppression of adipogenesis in adipocytes by a limonoid, 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin (CG-1) from Carapa guianensis (Meliaceae), known as andiroba. CG-1 reduced the accumulation of intracellular triglycerides in a concentration-dependent manner. The expression levels of the adipogenic, lipogenic, and lipolytic genes were decreased by CG-1 treatment, whereas the glycerol release level was not affected. When CG-1 was added into the medium during days 0-2 of 6-days-adipogenesis, the accumulation of intracellular lipids and the mRNA levels of the adipogenesis-related genes were decreased. In addition, the phosphorylation level of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and Akt in the early phase of adipocyte differentiation (within 1 day after initiating adipocyte differentiation) was reduced by CG-1. Furthermore, insulin-activated translocation of glucose transporter 4 to the plasma membranes in adipocytes was suppressed by CG-1, followed by decreased glucose uptake into the cells. These results indicate that an andiroba limonoid CG-1 suppressed the accumulation of intracellular lipids in the early phase of adipocyte differentiation through repression of IRS-1/Akt-mediated glucose uptake in adipocytes.
Carbon and Tin-Based Polyacrylonitrile Hybrid Architecture Solid Phase Microextraction Fiber for the Detection and Quantification of Antibiotic Compounds in Aqueous Environmental Systems
Authors: Mondal Sandip , Jiang Jialing , Li Yin , Ouyang Gangfeng
Published: April 2019

In this study, the detection and quantification of multiple classes of antibiotics in water matrices are proposed using a lab-made solid phase microextraction (SPME) fiber coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The lab-made fiber was prepared using a graphene oxide (G), carbon nanotubes (C), and tin dioxide (T) composite, namely GCT, with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as supporting material. The detected antibiotics were enrofloxacin, sulfathiazole, erythromycin, and trimethoprim. The custom-made fiber was found to be superior compared with a commercial C18 fiber. The excellent reproducibility and lower intra-fiber relative standard deviations (RSDs 1.8% to 6.8%) and inter-fiber RSDs (4.5% to 8.8%) made it an ideal candidate for the detection of traces of antibiotics in real environmental samples. The proposed validated method provides a satisfactory limit of detection and good linear ranges with higher (>0.99) coefficient of determination in the aqueous system. Application of the method was made in different real water systems such as river, pond and tap water using the standard spiking method. Excellent sensitivity, reproducibility, lower amount of sample detection and higher recovery was found in a real water sample. Therefore, the extraction method was successfully applied to the detection and quantification of multiple classes of antibiotics in different aqueous systems with satisfactory results.
Nickel-Catalyzed Decarbonylative Stannylation of Acyl Fluorides under Ligand-Free Conditions
Authors: Wang Xiu , Wang Zhenhua , Liu Li , Asanuma Yuya , Nishihara Yasushi
Published: April 2019

Nickel-catalyzed decarbonylative stannylation of acyl fluorides under ligand-free conditions was disclosed. A variety of aromatic acyl fluorides are capable of reacting with silylstannanes in the presence of cesium fluoride. A one-pot decarbonylative stannylation/Migita-Kosugi-Stille reaction of benzoyl fluoride, giving rise to the direct formation of the corresponding cross-coupled products, further demonstrated the synthetic utility of the present method. This newly developed methodology with a good functional-group compatibility via C–F bond cleavage and C–Sn bond formation under nickel catalysis opens a new area for the functionalization of acyl fluorides in terms of carbon-heteroatom bond formation.
Hepatoprotective Potential of Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum against Acute Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury in Vitro and Vivo
Authors: Wu Chenxuan , Liu Jun , Tang Yanbin , Li Yanxiao , Yan Qiaojuan , Jiang Zhengqiang
Published: April 2019

Natural polysaccharides, particularly galactomannans, are potential candidates for treatment of alcoholic liver diseases (ALD). However, applications are restricted due to the physicochemical properties associated with the high molecular weight. In this work, guar gum galactomannans were partially hydrolyzed by β-mannanase, and the molecular mechanisms of hepatoprotective effects were elucidated both in vitro and in vivo. Release of lactate dehydrogenase and cytochrome C were attenuated by partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) in HepG2 cells, due to protected cell and mitochondrial membrane integrity. PHGG co-administration decreased serum amino transaminases and cholinesterase levels of acute alcohol intoxicated mice, while hepatic pathologic morphology was depleted. Activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase was recovered to 198.2, 34.5, 236.0 U/mg protein, respectively, while malondialdehyde level was decreased by 76.3% (PHGG, 1000 mg/kg∙day). Co-administration of PHGG induced a 4.4-fold increment of p-AMPK expression, and lipid metabolism was mediated. PHGG alleviated toll-like-receptor-4-mediated inflammation via the signaling cascade of MyD88 and IκBα, decreasing cytokine production. Moreover, mediated expression of Bcl-2 and Bax was responsible for inhibited acute alcohol-induced apoptosis with suppressed cleavage of caspase 3 and PARP. Findings gained suggest that PHGG can be used as functional food supplement for the treatment of acute alcohol-induced liver injury.
Children’s Dietary Quality and Micronutrient Adequacy by Food Security in the Household and among Household Children
Authors: Jun Shinyoung , Zeh Mary J. , Eicher-Miller Heather A. , Bailey Regan L.
Published: April 2019

Children’s food-security status has been described largely based on either the classification of food security in the household or among household children, but few studies have investigated the relationship between food security among household children and overall dietary quality. Our goal was to examine children’s dietary quality and micronutrient adequacy by food-security classification for the household and among household children. Data from 5540 children (2–17 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014 were analyzed. Food-security status was assessed using the U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module and categorized into high, marginal, low, and very low food security for the households and among household children. Dietary quality and micronutrient adequacy were characterized by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) 2015 and Mean Adequacy Ratio (MAR; based on total nutrient intakes from diet and dietary supplements), respectively. The HEI 2015 scores did not substantially vary by either food-security classification, but the MAR was greater in high compared to very low food security in households and among household children; a linear relationship was found only among household children. In general, very good agreement was observed between the classifications, but the strength of agreement differed by children’s age, race/Hispanic origin, and family income. In conclusion, micronutrient adequacy, but not dietary quality, significantly differed by food-security status. While the agreement between food security in the household and among household children is very good, classification of food security among household children may be more sensitive to detecting differences in exposure to nutrients.
Protection of the Ovine Fetal Gut against Ureaplasma-Induced Chorioamnionitis: A Potential Role for Plant Sterols
Authors: van Gorp Charlotte , de Lange Ilse H. , Spiller Owen B. , Dewez Frédéric , Cillero Pastor Berta , Heeren Ron M. A. , Kessels Lilian , Kloosterboer Nico , van Gemert Wim G. , Beeton Michael L. , Stock Sarah J. , Jobe Alan H. , Payne Matthew S. , Kemp Matthew W. , Zimmermann Luc J. , Kramer Boris W. , Plat Jogchum , Wolfs Tim G. A. M.
Published: April 2019

Chorioamnionitis, clinically most frequently associated with Ureaplasma, is linked to intestinal inflammation and subsequent gut injury. No treatment is available to prevent chorioamnionitis-driven adverse intestinal outcomes. Evidence is increasing that plant sterols possess immune-modulatory properties. Therefore, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of plant sterols in lambs intra-amniotically (IA) exposed to Ureaplasma. Fetal lambs were IA exposed to Ureaplasma parvum (U. parvum, UP) for six days from 127 d–133 d of gestational age (GA). The plant sterols β-sitosterol and campesterol, dissolved with β-cyclodextrin (carrier), were given IA every two days from 122 d–131 d GA. Fetal circulatory cytokine levels, gut inflammation, intestinal injury, enterocyte maturation, and mucosal phospholipid and bile acid profiles were measured at 133 d GA (term 150 d). IA plant sterol administration blocked a fetal inflammatory response syndrome. Plant sterols reduced intestinal accumulation of proinflammatory phospholipids and tended to prevent mucosal myeloperoxidase-positive (MPO) cell influx, indicating an inhibition of gut inflammation. IA administration of plant sterols and carrier diminished intestinal mucosal damage, stimulated maturation of the immature epithelium, and partially prevented U. parvum-driven reduction of mucosal bile acids. In conclusion, we show that β-sitosterol and campesterol administration protected the fetus against adverse gut outcomes following UP-driven chorioamnionitis by preventing intestinal and systemic inflammation.
Nutritional Intake, Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Energy Availability in Female Australian Rules Football Players
Authors: Condo Dominique , Lohman Rachel , Kelly Monica , Carr Amelia
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to assess nutritional intake, sports nutrition knowledge and risk of Low Energy Availability (LEA) in female Australian rules football players. Victorian Football League Women’s competition (VFLW) players (n = 30) aged 18–35 (weight: 64.5 kg ± 8.0; height: 168.2 cm ± 7.6) were recruited from Victoria, Australia. Nutritional intake was quantified on training days using the Automated 24 h Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24-Australia), and sports nutrition knowledge was measured by the 88-item Sports Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (SNKQ). The risk of LEA was assessed using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Daily mean carbohydrate intake in the current investigation was 3 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1, therefore, below the minimum carbohydrate recommendation for moderate exercise of approximately one hour per day (5–7 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1) and for moderate to intense exercise for 1–3 h per day (6–10 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1) for 96.3% and 100% of players, respectively. Daily mean protein intake was 1.5 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1, therefore, consistent with recommendations (1.2–2.0 g⋅kg−1⋅d−1) for 77.8% of players. Daily mean calcium intake was 924.8 mg⋅d−1, therefore, below recommendations (1000 mg⋅d−1) for 65.5% of players, while mean iron intake was 12.2 mg⋅d−1, also below recommendations (18 mg⋅d−1) for 100% of players. Players answered 54.5% of SNKQ questions correctly, with the lowest scores observed in the section on supplements. Risk of LEA was evident in 30% of players, with no differences in carbohydrate (p = 0.238), protein (p = 0.296), fat (p = 0.490) or energy (p = 0.971) intakes between players at risk of LEA and those not at risk. The results suggest that female Australian rules football players have an inadequate intake of carbohydrate and calcium and low sports nutrition knowledge. Further investigation to assess the risk of LEA using direct measures is required.
Effect of Protein-Fortified Diet on Nitrogen Balance in Critically Ill Patients: Results from the OPINiB Trial
Authors: Danielis Matteo , Lorenzoni Giulia , Azzolina Danila , Iacobucci Anna , Trombini Omar , De Monte Amato , Gregori Dario , Beltrame Fabio
Published: April 2019

Nitrogen balance (NB) is considered a good marker of adequate protein intake and it has been suggested to be a good predictor of patients’ health outcomes. However, in literature, there is a lack of large randomized trials examining NB-guided protein intake in patients in intensive care units (ICUs). A randomized controlled trial enrolling patients admitted to ICU was done to compare changes in NB. Participants were randomized to a standard or protein-fortified diet (protein intake of 1.8 g/kg/day according to the guidelines of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition). The primary endpoint was represented by the NB on Day 1, 3, and study exit. Forty patients were enrolled in the study (19 in the protein-fortified group). The longitudinal analysis showed that, on Day 3, patients randomized to the protein-fortified diet were more likely (p < 0.001) to present better NB (at 3 days, patients in the protein-fortified diet were estimated to have a nitrate value of 5.22 g more than patients in the standard diet, 95% CI 3.86–6.58). The protein-fortified diet was found to be significantly and directly associated with changes in NB in critically ill patients admitted to ICU.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is Associated with Better Sleep Quality in Italian Adults
Authors: Godos Justyna , Ferri Raffaele , Caraci Filippo , Cosentino Filomena Irene Ilaria , Castellano Sabrina , Galvano Fabio , Grosso Giuseppe
Published: April 2019

Background: Sleep quality has been associated with human health and diseases, including cognitive decline and dementia; however major determinants of sleep disorders are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between sleep quality and adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern in a sample of Italian adults. Methods: A total of 1936 individuals were recruited in the urban area of Catania during 2014–2015 through random sampling. A food frequency questionnaire and validated instruments were used to assess the adherence to the Mediterranean diet and sleep quality (Pittsburg sleep quality index). Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to determine the association between exposure and outcome. Results: A total of 1314 individuals (67.9% of the cohort) reported adequate sleep quality: for each point increase of the Mediterranean diet score, individuals were 10% more likely to have adequate sleep quality. In an additional analysis stratifying the sample by weight status, the association between sleep quality and high adherence to the Mediterranean diet was observed only among normal/overweight individuals but not in obese participants. Conclusions: high adherence to a Mediterranean diet is associated with better sleep quality either toward direct effect on health or indirect effects through improvement of weight status.
Dietary Silicon and Its Impact on Plasma Silicon Levels in the Polish Population
Authors: Prescha Anna , Zabłocka-Słowińska Katarzyna , Grajeta Halina
Published: April 2019

Silicon in nutritional amounts provides benefits for bone health and cognitive function. The relationship between silicon intake from a common daily diet and silicon blood level has been scarcely elucidated, so far. The aim of this study was to analyze the associations between plasma silicon levels and the total and bioavailable silicon intake—along with the contribution of silicon made by food groups—in a healthy adult Polish population. Si intake was evaluated in 185 healthy adults (94 females and 91 males, aged 20–70) using a 3-day dietary recall and a database on the silicon content in foods, which was based on both previously published data and our own research. Fasting plasma silicon levels were measured in 126 consenting subjects, using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The silicon intake in the Polish population differed significantly according to sex, amounting to 24.0 mg/day in women and 27.7 mg/day in men. The median plasma silicon level was 152.3 µg/L having no gender dependency but with a negative correlation with age. Significant correlations were found between plasma silicon level and total and bioavailable silicon intake, as well as water intake in the diet (r = 0.18, p = 0.044; r = 0.23, p = 0.011; r = 0.28, p = 0.002, respectively). Silicon intakes from non-alcoholic beverages, cereal foods, and carotene-rich vegetables were also positively associated with plasma silicon levels. These results may help establish dietary silicon recommendations and formulate practical advice on dietary choices to ensure an appropriate supply of silicon. The outcome of this study, however, needs to be confirmed by large-scale epidemiological investigations.
Applications of Lignocellulosic Fibers and Lignin in Bioplastics: A Review
Authors: Yang Jianlei , Ching Yern , Chuah Cheng
Published: April 2019

Lignocellulosic fibers and lignin are two of the most important natural bioresources in the world. They show tremendous potential to decrease energy utilization/pollution and improve biodegradability by replacing synthetic fibers in bioplastics. The compatibility between the fiber-matrix plays an important part in the properties of the bioplastics. The improvement of lignocellulosic fiber properties by most surface treatments generally removes lignin. Due to the environmental pollution and high cost of cellulose modification, focus has been directed toward the use of lignocellulosic fibers in bioplastics. In addition, lignin-reinforced bioplastics are fabricated with varying success. These applications confirm there is no need to remove lignin from lignocellulosic fibers when preparing the bioplastics from a technical point of view. In this review, characterizations of lignocellulosic fibers and lignin related to their applications in bioplastics are covered. Then, we generalize the developments and problems of lignin-reinforced bioplastics and modification of lignin to improve the interaction of lignin-matrix. As for lignocellulosic fiber-reinforced bioplastics, we place importance on the low compatibility of the lignocellulosic fiber–matrix. The applications of lignin-containing cellulose and lignocellulosic fibers without delignification in the bioplastics are reviewed. A comparison between lignocellulosic fibers and lignin in the bioplastics is given.
Degradable Polymer Stars Based on Tannic Acid Cores by ATRP
Authors: Cuthbert Julia , Yerneni Saigopalakrishna S. , Sun Mingkang , Fu Travis , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2019

Degradable polymers are crucial in order to reduce plastic environmental pollution and waste accumulation. In this paper, a natural product, tannic acid was modified to be used as a polymer star core. The tannic acid was modified with atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiators and characterized by 1H NMR, FT-IR, and XPS. Twenty-five arm polymer stars were prepared by photoinduced ATRP of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) or poly(oligo(ethylene oxide) methacrylate) (molar mass Mw = 300 g/mol) (P(OEO300MA)). The polymer stars were degraded by cleaving the polymer star arms attached to the core by phenolic esters under mild basic conditions. The stars were analyzed before and after degradation by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Cytotoxicity assays were performed on the P(OEO300MA) stars and corresponding degraded polymers, and were found to be nontoxic at the concentrations tested.
Microstructure and Resistivity Analysis of Silver Nanoparticle-Based Crystalline Conductive Films Synthesized using PEG Surfactant
Authors: Mustafa Faisal , Razwan Muhammad , Shabbir Saima
Published: April 2019

Silver nanoparticle-based crystalline conductive films were synthesized using a simple and environmentally friendly method centered on chemical reduction. A stoichiometric balance of three different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used as a capping agent. Resistivity, and its correlation with temperature and the particle size of nanoparticle films, was probed. The silver nanoparticles were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Further silver films deposited on a glass substrate were characterized by FESEM, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and resistivity measurements. Particle size distribution and room temperature electrical conductivity were also investigated. The high conductivity of sintered films suggested applications for the ink-jet printing of electronic circuitry on thermally sensitive substrates.