bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant community composition in relation to soil physico-chemical properties of the Ratargul swamp forest, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Zabed , Khan Mohammad Ashraful Alam , Kashem Md Abul , Hoque Sirajul
Published: June 2016

Vegetation composition in relation to soil physical and chemical properties of the Ratargul Swamp Forest was examined in the present study. Vegetation data were collected from 10 different sites by placing quadrats (10 m × 10 m) randomly at a distance of 500 m from each other in the forest area. Soil samples were collected from the centre of the quadrat. Plant species richness and the Shannon Diversity Index (H?) ranged from 3 to 7 and from 0.150 to 1.184 respectively, per quadrat. Among the tree species, Pongamia pinnata (L.) Merr. showed the highest important value index (IVI) value (15.62) indicating the dominance of the species in the forest. Among the shrubs, Schumannianthus dichotomus (Roxb.) Gagnep. showed the highest IVI value (36.25) and Phyllanthus disticha showed the lowest (2.2). Of the herbs, Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw. showed the highest (92.44) and Asparagus racemosus L. showed the lowest (2.2) IVI values. Diameter at breast height (DBH) of P. pinnata (L.) Merr. varied largely from 29.26 to 169.77 cm indicating its growth variability from site to site in the forest. Soil pH, electric conductivity, organic carbon, total nitrogen and total phosphorus also showed a large range of variation in the study area. Redundancy Discriminant Analysis showed that soil moisture, conductivity, organic carbon and total nitrogen were significantly correlated with plant species data. Crataeva nurvala Buch-Ham and Mucuna zygantea DC. correlated with soil organic carbon and moisture content. On the other hand, S. dichotomus (Roxb.) Gagnep. showed significant correlation with soil conductivity. Results, thus, indicate that vegetation composition is related with soil properties in the Ratargul Swamp Forest.Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 25(1): 1-8, 2016
Formulation and In vitro Characterization of Hydrochlorothiazide Gastroretentive Floating Drug Delivery System
Authors: Hasan Md Asif , Sultana Sabiha , Sultana Sabiha , Bhuiyan Md Masud Kaisar , Reza Md Selim , Hossain Mohammad Salim
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the study was to develop and optimize floating bioadhesive gastroretentive drug delivery system (GRDDS) exhibiting a unique combination of floatation and bioadhesion to prolong residence in the stomach, using hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) as a model drug. Formulated matrix tablets were prepared by direct compression method with two different rate controlling polymer HPMC K4M and Carbopol 971. The formulated tablets were evaluated for physical characterization, floating lag time, swelling index and drug content uniformity. The drug release study was carried out in 0.1N HCl as the medium (pH 1.2) for 8 hours using USP type II dissolution apparatus and investigated the effects of polymers on the drug release profile. In vitro buoyancy study results found to be 1033 sec and >8 h, floating lag time and total floating time respectively. Simulated drug release pattern in different kinetic models of Korsmeyer-Peppas release suggests that the mechanism controlling of the drug release from all formulations was the anomalous non-Fickian or anomalous release. Polymer with lower viscosity (HMPC K4M) was found to be beneficial than higher viscosity polymer (Carbopol 971) in improving the release properties of gastric floating drug delivery system. Incorporation of Carbopol in formulation also helped in maintaining buoyancy of system with desirable drug release. Further study is necessary in case of in vitro- in vivo relationship, but this study will ready to lend a hand to future scientists working in this field to successfully exploit the potential of this drug delivery system for the advantage of mankind.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(2): 163-170, 2015 (December)
Endomorphism Rings are Centralizer Near-rings
Authors: Islam Md Rezaul , Saha Satrajit Kumar
Published: June 2016

For a finite ring R with identity and a finite unital R-module V the set C(R; V) = {f : V ->V : f(?v) = ?f(v) for all ? ? R, v ? V} is the centralizer near-ring determined by R and V. Rings R for witch C(R; V) is a ring for every R-module V, are characterized. Conditions are given under which C(R; V) is a semisimple centralizer near ring. Its shown that C(R; V) is a semisimple centralizer near ring then EndR(V) = C(R; V).GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 34 (2014) 57-61
Three Distinct Non-Hereditary Radicals Which Coincide with the Classical Radical for Rings with D.C.C.
Authors: Majumdar Subrata , Dey Kalyan Kumar
Published: June 2016

Majumdar and Paul [3] introduced and studied a new radical E defined as the upper radical determined by the class of all rings each of whose ideals is idempotent. In this paper the authors continue the study further and also study the join radical and the intersection radical (due to Leavitt) obtained from E and the Jacobson radical J. These have been denoted by E + J and EJ respectively. The radical and the semisimple rings corresponding to E + J and EJ have been obtained. Both of these radicals coincide with the classical nil radical for Artinian rings. Important properties of these radicals and their position among the well-known special radicals have been investigated. It has been proved that E, EJ and E + J are non-hereditary. It has also been proved as an independent result that the nil radical N is not dual, i.e., N ? N?.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 1-11
A Transformed Coordinate Model to Predict Tide and Surge Along the Head Bay of Bengal- Application to Cyclone of 1991 and 1970
Authors: Hussain Farzana
Published: June 2016

The head Bay of Bengal region is one of the most vulnerable regions for extreme water levels associated with severe tropical cyclones. The shallow nature of the head Bay, presence of a large number of deltas formed by major rivers and high tidal range are responsible for storm surge flooding in the region. Specifically, the rise and fall of tidal phases influence the height, duration, and arrival time of peak surge along the coast. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the tide-surge interaction during the super cyclone of 1991 and 1970. A transformed coordinate model is developed to estimate the possible water levels along the coast of Bangladesh.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 7-25
Convergence of the Newton-Type Method for Generalized Equations
Authors: Rashid MH , Sarder A
Published: June 2016

Let X and Y be real or complex Banach spaces. Suppose that f: X->Y is a Frechet differentiable function and F: X => 2Yis a set-valued mapping with closed graph. In the present paper, we study the Newton-type method for solving generalized equation 0 ? f(x) + F(x). We prove the existence of the sequence generated by the Newton-type method and establish local convergence of the sequence generated by this method for generalized equation.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 27-40
Stability of Single Electron Devices: Charge Offset Drift
Authors: Stewart M. , Zimmerman Neil
Published: June 2016

Single electron devices (SEDs) afford the opportunity to isolate and manipulate individual electrons. This ability imbues SEDs with potential applications in a wide array of areas from metrology (current and capacitance) to quantum information. Success in each application ultimately requires exceptional performance, uniformity, and stability from SEDs which is currently unavailable. In this review, we discuss a time instability of SEDs that occurs at low frequency ( ≪ 1 Hz) called charge offset drift. We review experimental work which shows that charge offset drift is large in metal-based SEDs and absent in Si-SiO2-based devices. We discuss the experimental results in the context of glassy relaxation as well as prospects of SED device applications.
Modulating Dickkopf-1: A Strategy to Monitor or Treat Cancer?
Authors: Mazon Mélody , Masi Delphine , Carreau Madeleine
Published: June 2016

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a secreted Wnt/β-catenin pathway antagonist involved in embryogenesis. It was first described 25 years ago for its function in head induction and limb morphogenesis. Since then, this protein has been widely studied in the context of active Wnt/β-catenin signalling during cellular differentiation and development. Dysregulation of DKK1 has been associated with bone pathologies and has now emerged as a potential biomarker of cancer progression and prognosis for several types of malignancies. Reducing the amount of circulating DKK1 may reveal a simple and efficient strategy to limit or reverse cancer growth. This review will provide an overview of the role of Dickkopf-1 in cancer and explore its potential use as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
Nonlinear Thermodynamic Analysis and Optimization of a Carnot Engine Cycle
Authors: Feidt Michel , Costea Monica , Petrescu Stoian , Stanciu Camelia
Published: June 2016

As part of the efforts to unify the various branches of Irreversible Thermodynamics, the proposed work reconsiders the approach of the Carnot engine taking into account the finite physical dimensions (heat transfer conductances) and the finite speed of the piston. The models introduce the irreversibility of the engine by two methods involving different constraints. The first method introduces the irreversibility by a so-called irreversibility ratio in the entropy balance applied to the cycle, while in the second method it is emphasized by the entropy generation rate. Various forms of heat transfer laws are analyzed, but most of the results are given for the case of the linear law. Also, individual cases are studied and reported in order to provide a simple analytical form of the results. The engine model developed allowed a formal optimization using the calculus of variations.
Motivated for Action and Collaboration: The Abrahamic Religions and Climate Change
Authors: Schaefer Jame
Published: June 2016

Leaders of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have publicly advocated action to mitigate the adverse effects of human-forced climate change. Particularly prominent prior to, during, and after the 21st Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change were Rabbi Arthur Waskow, Pope Francis, and Patriarch Bartholomew. Also prominent was a group of Islamic clerics, leaders of organizations, and scholars who collaborated in issuing a declaration on climate change three months prior to COP 21. Informed by the Earth sciences, these leaders shared their faith-based rationales for acting locally to internationally as indicated in the documents explored in this article. Examples of organizations motivated by their leaders’ faith perspectives demonstrate their readiness to act informed by scientists. To work effectively, these religious leaders and activist groups require well-substantiated conclusions from data collected to counter unsubstantiated claims by climate skeptics. Earth scientists will find among the religious leaders and groups allies in the quest for a flourishing planet.
Falls from Height in the Construction Industry: A Critical Review of the Scientific Literature
Authors: Nadhim Evan , Hon Carol , Xia Bo , Stewart Ian , Fang Dongping
Published: June 2016

Globally, falls from height (FFH) are a substantial public health jeopardy and are among the important leading causes of serious and fatal injuries for construction workers. A comprehensive understanding of the causal factors in FFH incidents is urgently required; however, the literature appears to lack a scientific review of FFH. In this study, 297 articles that contribute to the topic of fall incidents were reviewed. Seventy-five (75) articles met the criteria for relevance and were aggregated in a database to support a critical review. A synthesis of macro-variables approach was adopted rather than a structured meta-analysis. Such a method of analysis provides the flexibility to combine previous studies' findings. The most common factors associated with FFH are risky activities, individual characteristics, site conditions, organizational characteristics, agents (scaffolds/ladders) and weather conditions. The outcomes contributed to identifying the most significant research area for safety enhancement by improving engineering facilities, behaviour investigations and FFH prevention methods.
One Pot Selective Arylation of 2-Bromo-5-Chloro Thiophene; Molecular Structure Investigation via Density Functional Theory (DFT), X-ray Analysis, and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Rasool Nasir , Kanwal Aqsa , Rasheed Tehmina , Ain Quratulain , Mahmood Tariq , Ayub Khurshid , Zubair Muhammad , Khan Khalid , Arshad Muhammad , M. Asiri Abdullah , Zia-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Jaafar Hawa
Published: June 2016

Synthesis of 2,5-bisarylthiophenes was accomplished by sequential Suzuki cross coupling reaction of 2-bromo-5-chloro thiophenes. Density functional theory (DFT) studies were carried out at the B3LYP/6-31G(d, p) level of theory to compare the geometric parameters of 2,5-bisarylthiophenes with those from X-ray diffraction results. The synthesized compounds are screened for in vitro bacteria scavenging abilities. At the concentration of 50 and 100 μg/mL, compounds 2b, 2c, 2d, 3c, and 3f with IC50-values of 51.4, 52.10, 58.0, 56.2, and 56.5 μg/mL respectively, were found most potent against E. coli. Among all the synthesized compounds 2a, 2d, 3c, and 3e with the least values of IC50 77, 76.26, 79.13 μg/mL respectively showed significant antioxidant activities. Almost all of the compounds showed good antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, whereas 2-chloro-5-(4-methoxyphenyl) thiophene (2b) was found most active among all synthesized compound with an IC50 value of 51.4 μg/mL. All of the synthesized compounds were screened for nitric oxide scavenging activity as well. Frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) and molecular electrostatic potentials of the target compounds were also studied theoretically to account for their relative reactivity
A Homogeneous Polysaccharide from Fructus Schisandra chinensis (Turz.) Baill Induces Mitochondrial Apoptosis through the Hsp90/AKT Signalling Pathway in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Chen Yonglin , Shi Songshan , Wang Huijun , Li Ning , Su Juan , Chou Guixin , Wang Shunchun
Published: June 2016

According to the potential anti-hepatoma therapeutic effect of Schisandra chinensis polysaccharides presented in previous studies, a bioactive constituent, homogeneous Schisandra chinensis polysaccharide-0-1 (SCP-0-1), molecular weight (MW) circa 69.980 kDa, was isolated and purified. We assessed the efficacy of SCP-0-1 against human hepatocellular liver carcinoma (HepG2) cells to investigate the effects of its antitumour activity and molecular mechanisms. Anticancer activity was evaluated using microscopy, 3-[4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, Hoechst 33258 staining, acridine orange (AO) staining, flow cytometry (FCM), and cell-cycle analysis. SCP-0-1 inhibited the HepG2 cells’ growth via inducing apoptosis and second gap/mitosis (G2/M) arrest dose-dependently, with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 479.63 µg/mL. Western blotting of key proteins revealed the apoptotic and autophagic potential of SCP-0-1. Besides, SCP-0-1 upregulated Bcl-2 Associated X Protein (Bax) and downregulated B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in the HepG2 cells. The expression of caspase-3, -8, and -9; poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP); cytochrome c (Cyt C); tumor protein 53 (p53); survivin; sequestosome 1 (p62); microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain-3B (LC3B); mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 (p38); extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK); c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK); protein kinase B (AKT); and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) were evaluated using Western blotting. Our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism through which SCP-0-1 exerts its antiproliferative activity and induces mitochondrial apoptosis rather than autophagy. The induction of mitochondrial apoptosis was attributed to the inhibition of the Hsp90/AKT signalling pathway in an extracellular signal-regulated kinase-independent manner. The results also provide initial evidence on a molecular basis that SCP-0-1 can be used as an anti-hepatocellular carcinoma therapeutic agent in the future.
Computational Identification of the Paralogs and Orthologs of Human Cytochrome P450 Superfamily and the Implication in Drug Discovery
Authors: Pan Shu-Ting , Xue Danfeng , Li Zhi-Ling , Zhou Zhi-Wei , He Zhi-Xu , Yang Yinxue , Yang Tianxin , Qiu Jia-Xuan , Zhou Shu-Feng
Published: June 2016

The human cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily consisting of 57 functional genes is the most important group of Phase I drug metabolizing enzymes that oxidize a large number of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds, including therapeutic drugs and environmental toxicants. The CYP superfamily has been shown to expand itself through gene duplication, and some of them become pseudogenes due to gene mutations. Orthologs and paralogs are homologous genes resulting from speciation or duplication, respectively. To explore the evolutionary and functional relationships of human CYPs, we conducted this bioinformatic study to identify their corresponding paralogs, homologs, and orthologs. The functional implications and implications in drug discovery and evolutionary biology were then discussed. GeneCards and Ensembl were used to identify the paralogs of human CYPs. We have used a panel of online databases to identify the orthologs of human CYP genes: NCBI, Ensembl Compara, GeneCards, OMA (“Orthologous MAtrix”) Browser, PATHER, TreeFam, EggNOG, and Roundup. The results show that each human CYP has various numbers of paralogs and orthologs using GeneCards and Ensembl. For example, the paralogs of CYP2A6 include CYP2A7, 2A13, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C18, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, 2F1, 2J2, 2R1, 2S1, 2U1, and 2W1; CYP11A1 has 6 paralogs including CYP11B1, 11B2, 24A1, 27A1, 27B1, and 27C1; CYP51A1 has only three paralogs: CYP26A1, 26B1, and 26C1; while CYP20A1 has no paralog. The majority of human CYPs are well conserved from plants, amphibians, fishes, or mammals to humans due to their important functions in physiology and xenobiotic disposition. The data from different approaches are also cross-validated and validated when experimental data are available. These findings facilitate our understanding of the evolutionary relationships and functional implications of the human CYP superfamily in drug discovery.
CD133 Modulate HIF-1α Expression under Hypoxia in EMT Phenotype Pancreatic Cancer Stem-Like Cells
Authors: Maeda Koki , Ding Qiang , Yoshimitsu Makoto , Kuwahata Taisaku , Miyazaki Yumi , Tsukasa Koichirou , Hayashi Tomomi , Shinchi Hiroyuki , Natsugoe Shoji , Takao Sonshin
Published: June 2016

Although CD133 is a known representative cancer stem cell marker, its function in tumor aggressiveness under hypoxia is not fully known. The aim of this study is to demonstrate that CD133 regulates hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression with tumor migration. The CD133+ pancreatic cancer cell line, Capan1M9, was compared with the CD133− cell line, shCD133M9, under hypoxia. HIF-1α expression levels were compared by Western blot, HIF-1α nucleus translocation assay and real-time (RT)-PCR. The hypoxia responsive element (HRE) was observed by luciferase assay. The migration ability was analyzed by migration and wound healing assays. Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) related genes were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. HIF-1α was highly expressed in Capan1M9 compared to shCD133M9 under hypoxia because of the high activation of HRE. Furthermore, the migration ability of Capan1M9 was higher than that of shCD133M9 under hypoxia, suggesting higher expression of EMT related genes in Capan1M9 compared to shCD133M9. Conclusion: HIF-1α expression under hypoxia in CD133+ pancreatic cancer cells correlated with tumor cell migration through EMT gene expression. Understanding the function of CD133 in cancer aggressiveness provides a novel therapeutic approach to eradicate pancreatic cancer stem cells.
1,4-Phenylenebis[(6,7-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydroisoquinolin-2(1H)-yl)methanone]
Authors: Manolov Stanimir , Ivanov Iliyan
Published: June 2016

The compound named in the title was prepared from N1,N4-diphenethylterephthalamide 1. The resulting bis terephthalamide was subjected to an intramolecular α-amidoalkylation reaction with paraformaldehyde in the presence of heterogeneous catalyst TfOH/SiO2 to obtain 1,4-phenylenebis[(6,7-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydroisoquinolin-2(1H)-yl)methanone]. The structure of the newly synthesized compound was determined using 1H, 13C-NMR, UV, IR and mass spectral data.
Soldering Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Sn-1.0Ag-0.5Cu Solder with Minor Aluminum Addition
Authors: Leong Yee , Haseeb A.S.M.A.
Published: June 2016

Driven by the trends towards miniaturization in lead free electronic products, researchers are putting immense efforts to improve the properties and reliabilities of Sn based solders. Recently, much interest has been shown on low silver (Ag) content solder SAC105 (Sn-1.0Ag-0.5Cu) because of economic reasons and improvement of impact resistance as compared to SAC305 (Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu. The present work investigates the effect of minor aluminum (Al) addition (0.1–0.5 wt.%) to SAC105 on the interfacial structure between solder and copper substrate during reflow. The addition of minor Al promoted formation of small, equiaxed Cu-Al particle, which are identified as Cu3Al2. Cu3Al2 resided at the near surface/edges of the solder and exhibited higher hardness and modulus. Results show that the minor addition of Al does not alter the morphology of the interfacial intermetallic compounds, but they substantially suppress the growth of the interfacial Cu6Sn5 intermetallic compound (IMC) after reflow. During isothermal aging, minor alloying Al has reduced the thickness of interfacial Cu6Sn5 IMC but has no significant effect on the thickness of Cu3Sn. It is suggested that of atoms of Al exert their influence by hindering the flow of reacting species at the interface.
Preparation and Properties of Electrospun Poly (Vinyl Pyrrolidone)/Cellulose Nanocrystal/Silver Nanoparticle Composite Fibers
Authors: Huang Siwei , Zhou Ling , Li Mei-Chun , Wu Qinglin , Kojima Yoichi , Zhou Dingguo
Published: June 2016

Poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP)/cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)/silver nanoparticle composite fibers were prepared via electrospinning using N,N′-dimethylformamide (DMF) as a solvent. Rheology, morphology, thermal properties, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial activity of nanocomposites were characterized as a function of material composition. The PVP/CNC/Ag electrospun suspensions exhibited higher conductivity and better rheological properties compared with those of the pure PVP solution. The average diameter of the PVP electrospun fibers decreased with the increase in the amount of CNCs and Ag nanoparticles. Thermal stability of electrospun composite fibers was decreased with the addition of CNCs. The CNCs help increase the composite tensile strength, while the elongation at break decreased. The composite fibers included Ag nanoparticles showed improved antimicrobial activity against both the Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) and the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The enhanced strength and antimicrobial performances of PVP/CNC/Ag electrospun composite fibers make the mat material an attractive candidate for application in the biomedical field.
Exopolysaccharide-Based Bioflocculant Matrix of Azotobacter chroococcum XU1 for Synthesis of AgCl Nanoparticles and Its Application as a Novel Biocidal Nanobiomaterial
Authors: Rasulov Bakhtiyor , Rozi Parhat , Pattaeva Mohichehra , Yili Abulimiti , Aisa Haji
Published: June 2016

A simple and green method was developed for the biosynthesis of AgCl nanoparticles, free from Ag nanoparticles, using the exopolysaccharide-based bioflocculant of nitrogen fixing Azotobacter chroococcum XU1 strain. AgCl nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform-Infra Red (FT-IR) and Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). The concentration-dependent and controllable method for the synthesis of AgCl nanoparticles of a certain size and morphology was developed. As-synthesized AgCl nanoparticles were characterized bya high content of AgCl and exhibited strong antimicrobial activity towards pathogenic microorganisms such as E. coli, S. aureus and C. albicans. The biofabricated AgCl nanoparticles can be exploited as a promising new biocidalbionanocomposite against pathogenic microorganisms.
Relevance of the Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Profiles of Puerariae lobatae Radix to Aggregation of Multi-Component Molecules in Aqueous Decoctions
Authors: Su Bili , Kan Yongjun , Xie Jianwei , Hu Juan , Pang Wensheng
Published: June 2016

The complexity of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) is related to their multi-component system. TCM aqueous decoction is a common clinical oral formulation. Between molecules in solution, there exist intermolecular strong interactions to form chemical bonds or weak non-bonding interactions such as hydrogen bonds and Van der Waals forces, which hold molecules together to form “molecular aggregates”. Taking the TCM Puerariae lobatae Radix (Gegen) as an example, we explored four Gegen decoctions of different concentration of 0.019, 0.038, 0.075, and 0.30 g/mL, named G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4. In order of molecular aggregate size (diameter) the four kinds of solution were ranked G-1 < G-2 < G-3 < G-4 by Flow Cell 200S IPAC image analysis. A rabbit vertebrobasilar artery insufficiency (VBI) model was set up and they were given Gegen decoction (GGD) at a clinical dosage of 0.82 g/kg (achieved by adjusting the gastric perfusion volume depending on the concentration). The HPLC fingerprint of rabbit plasma showed that the chemical component absorption into blood in order of peak area values was G-1 < G-2 > G-3 > G-4. Puerarin and daidzin are the major constituents of Gegen, and the pharmacokinetics of G-1 and G-2 puerarin conformed with the two compartment open model, while for G-3 and G-4, they conformed to a one compartment open model. For all four GGDs the pharmacokinetics of daidzin complied with a one compartment open model. FQ-PCR assays of rabbits’ vertebrobasilar arterial tissue were performed to determine the pharmacodynamic profiles of the four GGDs. GGD markedly lowered the level of AT1R mRNA, while the AT2R mRNA level was increased significantly vs. the VBI model, and G-2 was the most effective. In theory the dosage was equal to the blood drug concentration and should be consistent; however, the formation of molecular aggregates affects drug absorption and metabolism, and therefore influences drugs’ effects. Our data provided references for the rational use of Chinese medicines in the clinic, such as the best oral preparation and decoction concentration.
Ultrasonic Synthesis, Molecular Structure and Mechanistic Study of 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction of 1-Alkynylpyridinium-3-olate and Acetylene Derivatives
Authors: Aboelnaga Asmaa , Hagar Mohamed , Soliman Saied
Published: June 2016

Regioselectively, ethyl propiolate reacted with 1-(propergyl)-pyridinium-3-olate to give two regioisomers; ethyl 4-oxo-8-(prop-2-ynyl)-8-aza-bicyclo(3.2.1)octa-2,6-diene-6-carboxylate 4, ethyl 2-oxo-8-(prop-2-ynyl)-8-aza-bicyclo(3.2.1)octa-3,6-diene-6-carboxylate 5 as well as ethyl 2,6-dihydro-6-(prop-2-ynyl)furo(2,3-c)pyridine-3-carboxylate 6. The obtained compounds were identified by their spectral (IR, mass and NMR) data. Moreover, DFT quantum chemical calculations were used to study the mechanism of the cycloaddition reaction. The regioselectivity was explained using transition state calculations, where the calculations agreed with the formation of products 4 and 5 in almost the same ratio. The reaction was also extended for diphenylaceylene as dipolarophile to give only two products instead of three.
The Effects and Mechanisms of Periplaneta americana Extract Reversal of Multi-Drug Resistance in BEL-7402/5-FU Cells
Authors: Yuan Falu , Liu Junyong , Qiao Tingting , Li Ting , Shen Qi , Peng Fang
Published: June 2016

The present study reports the reversing effects of extracts from P. americana on multidrug resistance of BEL-7402/5-FU cells, as well as a preliminary investigation on their mechanism of action. A methylthiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) method was applied to determine the multidrug resistance of BEL-7402/5-FU, while an intracellular drug accumulation assay was used to evaluate the effects of a column chromatography extract (PACC) and defatted extract (PADF) from P. americana on reversing multi-drug resistance. BEL-7402/5-FU reflected high resistance to 5-FU; PACC and PADF could promote drug accumulation in BEL-7402/5-FU cells, among which PADF was more effective than PACC. Moreover, results from the immunocytochemical method showed that PACC and PADF could downregulate the expression of drug resistance-associated proteins (P-gp, MRP, LRP); PACC and PADF had no effects on the expression of multidrug resistance-associated enzymes (GST-π), but PACC could increase the expression of multidrug resistance-associated enzymes (PKC). Results of real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR revealed that PACC and PADF were able to markedly inhibit the expression of multidrug resistance-associated genes (MDR1, LRP and MRP1); PACC presented a significant impact on the gene expression of multidrug resistance-associated enzymes, which increased the gene expression of GST-π and PKC. However, PADF had little impact on the expression of multidrug resistance-associated enzymes. These results demonstrated that PACC and PADF extracted from P. americana could effectively reverse MDR in BEL-7402/5-FU cells, whose mechanism was to inhibit the expression of P-gp, MRP, and LRP, and that PADF was more effective in the reversal of MDR than did PACC. In addition, some of extracts from P. americana altered (sometimes increasing) the expression of multidrug resistance-associated enzymes.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations to Investigate the Binding Mode of the Natural Product Liphagal with Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase α
Authors: Gao Yanjuan , Ma Ying , Yang Guangde , Li Yiping
Published: June 2016

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase α (PI3Kα) is an attractive target for anticancer drug design. Liphagal, isolated from the marine sponge Aka coralliphaga, possesses the special “liphagane” meroterpenoid carbon skeleton and has been demonstrated as a PI3Kα inhibitor. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed to explore the dynamic behaviors of PI3Kα binding with liphagal, and free energy calculations and energy decomposition analysis were carried out by use of molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann (generalized Born) surface area (MM/PB(GB)SA) methods. The results reveal that the heteroatom rich aromatic D-ring of liphagal extends towards the polar region of the binding site, and the D-ring 15-hydroxyl and 16-hydroxyl form three hydrogen bonds with Asp810 and Tyr836. The cyclohexyl A-ring projects up into the upper pocket of the lipophilic region, and the hydrophobic/van der Waals interactions with the residues Met772, Trp780, Ile800, Ile848, Val850, Met922, Phe930, Ile932 could be the key interactions for the affinity of liphagal to PI3Kα. Thus, a new strategy for the rational design of more potent analogs of liphagal against PI3Kα is provided. Our proposed PI3Kα/liphagal binding mode would be beneficial for the discovery of new active analogs of liphagal against PI3Kα.
Quaternized Chitosan-Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Nanocarriers for Controlled Pesticide Release
Authors: Cao Lidong , Zhang Huirong , Cao Chong , Zhang Jiakun , Li Fengmin , Huang Qiliang
Published: June 2016

Nanotechnology-based pesticide formulations would ensure effective utilization of agricultural inputs. In the present work, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with particle diameters of ~110 nm and pore sizes of ~3.7 nm were synthesized via a liquid crystal templating mechanism. A water-soluble chitosan (CS) derivative (N-(2-hydroxyl)propyl-3-trimethyl ammonium CS chloride, HTCC) was successfully capped on the surface of pyraclostrobin-loaded MSNs. The physicochemical and structural analyses showed that the electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the major forces responsible for the formation of HTCC-capped MSNs. HTCC coating greatly improved the loading efficiency (LC) (to 40.3%) compared to using bare MSNs as a single encapsulant (26.7%). The microstructure of the nanoparticles was revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The pyraclostrobin-loaded nanoparticles showed an initial burst and subsequent sustained release behavior. HTCC-capped MSNs released faster than bare MSNs in the initial stage. Pyraclostrobin-loaded HTCC-capped MSNs with half doses of pyraclostrobin technical demonstrated almost the same fungicidal activity against Phomopsis asparagi (Sacc.), which obviously reduced the applied pesticide and enhanced the utilization efficiency. Therefore, HTCC-decorated MSNs demonstrated great potential as nanocarriers in agrochemical applications.
Modeling the Effect of Replacing Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption with Water on Energy Intake, HBI Score, and Obesity Prevalence
Authors: Duffey Kiyah , Poti Jennifer
Published: June 2016

Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) contribute to excessive weight gain through added energy intake. Replacing SSB with water is one strategy that has shown promise in helping lower excessive energy intake. Using nationally representative data from US adults (n = 19,718) from NHANES 2007–2012 we examine the impact of replacing SSB with water on Healthy Beverage Index (HBI) scores and obesity prevalence. Replacing an 8-ounce serving of SSB with water lowered the percent of energy from beverages from 17% to 11% (among those consuming 1 serving SSB/day). Reductions in the percent energy from beverages were observed across all SSB consumption groups (1–2 servings/day and >2 servings/day). Among adults there was a 9% to 21% improvement in HBI score when one serving of water replaced one serving of SSB. Using previously published randomized controlled trials (RCT) and meta-analyses of measured weight loss we also predicted a reduction in the prevalence of obesity (observed: 35.2%; predicted 33.5%–34.9%, p < 0.05) and increase in the prevalence of normal weight (observed: 29.7%; high weight loss: 31.3%, p < 0.05). Our findings provide further epidemiologic evidence that water in the place of SSB can be used as a strategy to limit energy intake and help individuals meet beverage intake recommendations.
Thyroid Function among Breastfed Children with Chronically Excessive Iodine Intakes
Authors: Aakre Inger , Strand Tor , Bjøro Trine , Norheim Ingrid , Barikmo Ingrid , Ares Susana , Alcorta Marta , Henjum Sigrun
Published: June 2016

Iodine excess may impair thyroid function and trigger adverse health consequences for children. This study aims to describe iodine status among breastfed infants with high iodine exposure in the Saharawi refugee camps Algeria, and further assess thyroid function and iodine status among the children three years later. In 2010, a cross-sectional study among 111 breastfed children aged 0–6 months was performed (baseline study). In 2013, a second cross-sectional study (follow-up study) was conducted among 289 children; 213 newly selected and 76 children retrieved from baseline. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and breast milk iodine concentration (BMIC) were measured at baseline. UIC, thyroid hormones and serum thyroglobulin (Tg) were measured at follow-up. At baseline and follow-up, 88% and 72% had excessive iodine intakes (UIC ≥ 300 µg/L), respectively. At follow-up, 24% had a thyroid hormone disturbance and/or elevated serum Tg, including 9% with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), 4% with elevated fT3 and 14% with elevated Tg. Children with SCH had poorer linear growth and were more likely to be underweight than the children without SCH. Excessive iodine intakes and thyroid disturbances were common among children below four years of age in our study. Further, SCH seemed to be associated with poor growth and weight.
Reply to O. Osibogun’s Letter to the Editor Re: Hess S. et al.; Nutrients 2016, 8, 88
Authors: Hess Sascha , Eichler Klaus
Published: June 2016

In a recent literature review and meta-analysis, we summarized the evidence of reducing anemia in children and adults with fortiﬁed condiments and noodles [1].[...]
Classification and Monitoring of Reed Belts Using Dual-Polarimetric TerraSAR-X Time Series
Authors: Heine Iris , Jagdhuber Thomas , Itzerott Sibylle
Published: June 2016

Synthetic aperture radar polarimetry (PolSAR) and polarimetric decomposition techniques have proven to be useful tools for wetland mapping. In this study we classify reed belts and monitor their phenological changes at a natural lake in northeastern Germany using dual-co-polarized (HH, VV) TerraSAR-X time series. The time series comprises 19 images, acquired between August 2014 and May 2015, in ascending and descending orbit. We calculated different polarimetric indices using the HH and VV intensities, the dual-polarimetric coherency matrix including dominant and mean alpha scattering angles, and entropy and anisotropy (normalized eigenvalue difference) as well as combinations of entropy and anisotropy for the analysis of the scattering scenarios. The image classifications were performed with the random forest classifier and validated with high-resolution digital orthophotos. The time series analysis of the reed belts revealed significant seasonal changes for the double-bounce–sensitive parameters (intensity ratio HH/VV and intensity difference HH-VV, the co-polarimetric coherence phase and the dominant and mean alpha scattering angles) and in the dual-polarimetric coherence (amplitude), anisotropy, entropy, and anisotropy-entropy combinations; whereas in summer dense leaves cause volume scattering, in winter, after leaves have fallen, the reed stems cause predominately double-bounce scattering. Our study showed that the five most important parameters for the classification of reed are the intensity difference HH-VV, the mean alpha scattering angle, intensity ratio HH/VV, and the coherence (phase). Due to the better separation of reed and other vegetation (deciduous forest, coniferous forest, meadow), winter acquisitions are preferred for the mapping of reed. Multi-temporal stacks of winter images performed better than summer ones. The combination of ascending and descending images also improved the result as it reduces the influence of the sensor look direction. However, in this study, only an accuracy of ~50% correct classified reed areas was reached. Whereas the shorelines with reed areas (>10 m broad) could be detected correctly, the actual reed areas were significantly overestimated. The main source of error is probably the challenging data geocoding causing geolocation inaccuracies, which need to be solved in future studies.
A Three-Dimensional Shape-Based Force and Stiffness-Sensing Platform for Tendon-Driven Catheters
Authors: Kouh Soltani Minou , Khanmohammadi Sohrab , Ghalichi Farzan
Published: June 2016

This paper presents an efficient shape-based three-axial force and stiffness estimator for active catheters commonly implemented in cardiac ablation. The force-sensing capability provides important feedback for catheterization procedures including real-time control and catheter steering in autonomous navigation systems. The proposed platform is based on the introduced accurate and computationally efficient Cosserat rod model for tendon-driven catheters. The proposed nonlinear Kalman filter formulation for contact force estimation along with the developed catheter model provides a real-time force observer robust to nonlinearities and noise covariance uncertainties. Furthermore, the proposed platform enables stiffness estimation in addition to tip contact force sensing in different operational circumstances. The approach incorporates pose measurements which can be achieved using currently developed pose-sensing systems or imaging techniques. The method makes the approach compatible with the range of forces applied in clinical applications. The simulation and experimental results verify the viability of the introduced force and stiffness-sensing technique.
Microsoft Kinect Visual and Depth Sensors for Breathing and Heart Rate Analysis
Authors: Procházka Aleš , Schätz Martin , Vyšata Oldřich , Vališ Martin
Published: June 2016

This paper is devoted to a new method of using Microsoft (MS) Kinect sensors for non-contact monitoring of breathing and heart rate estimation to detect possible medical and neurological disorders. Video sequences of facial features and thorax movements are recorded by MS Kinect image, depth and infrared sensors to enable their time analysis in selected regions of interest. The proposed methodology includes the use of computational methods and functional transforms for data selection, as well as their denoising, spectral analysis and visualization, in order to determine specific biomedical features. The results that were obtained verify the correspondence between the evaluation of the breathing frequency that was obtained from the image and infrared data of the mouth area and from the thorax movement that was recorded by the depth sensor. Spectral analysis of the time evolution of the mouth area video frames was also used for heart rate estimation. Results estimated from the image and infrared data of the mouth area were compared with those obtained by contact measurements by Garmin sensors (www.garmin.com). The study proves that simple image and depth sensors can be used to efficiently record biomedical multidimensional data with sufficient accuracy to detect selected biomedical features using specific methods of computational intelligence. The achieved accuracy for non-contact detection of breathing rate was 0.26% and the accuracy of heart rate estimation was 1.47% for the infrared sensor. The following results show how video frames with depth data can be used to differentiate different kinds of breathing. The proposed method enables us to obtain and analyse data for diagnostic purposes in the home environment or during physical activities, enabling efficient human–machine interaction.
Evaluating the Improvement of Sustainability of Sports Industry Policy Based on MADM
Authors: Hu Kuang-Hua , Chen Fu-Hsiang , Tzeng Gwo-Hshiung
Published: June 2016

The influence of globalization on sports has turned out to be a popular issue widely discussed by researchers. Improvement to the sustainability of sports industry policy is an important and challenging issue, and related are inherently multiple attribute decision making (MADM) problems that can be strategically important to economic systems. The purpose of this study is to set up a new sustainability sports industry policy evaluation model that addresses the main causal factors and amends the priorities. A MADM model is combined with DEMATEL, DANP, and VIKOR for the evaluation and improvement of the sustainability of sports industry policy. The improvement priorities according to the domain expert interviews are in the following order: promotion and assistance of government policy (A), sports venues and facilities (D), enterprise sponsorship of sports quality (E), expert human resources (B), and finally sports competitions and events (C).
The Shortest Path Problems in Battery-Electric Vehicle Dispatching with Battery Renewal
Authors: Huang Minfang , Li Jing-Quan
Published: June 2016

Electric vehicles play a key role for developing an eco-sustainable transport system. One critical component of an electric vehicle is its battery, which can be quickly charged or exchanged before it runs out. The problem of electric vehicle dispatching falls into the category of the shortest path problem with resource renewal. In this paper, we study the shortest path problems in (1) electric transit bus scheduling and (2) electric truck routing with time windows. In these applications, a fully-charged battery allows running a limited operational distance, and the battery before depletion needs to be quickly charged or exchanged with a fully-charged one at a battery management facility. The limited distance and battery renewal result in a shortest path problem with resource renewal. We develop a label-correcting algorithm with state space relaxation to find optimal solutions. In the computational experiments, real-world road geometry data are used to generate realistic travel distances, and other types of data are obtained from the real world or randomly generated. The computational results show that the label-correcting algorithm performs very well.
Liquid Chromatography with a Fluorimetric Detection Method for Analysis of Paralytic Shellfish Toxins and Tetrodotoxin Based on a Porous Graphitic Carbon Column
Authors: Rey Veronica , Botana Ana , Alvarez Mercedes , Antelo Alvaro , Botana Luis
Published: June 2016

Paralytic shellfish toxins (PST) traditionally have been analyzed by liquid chromatography with either pre- or post-column derivatization and always with a silica-based stationary phase. This technique resulted in different methods that need more than one run to analyze the toxins. Furthermore, tetrodotoxin (TTX) was recently found in bivalves of northward locations in Europe due to climate change, so it is important to analyze it along with PST because their signs of toxicity are similar in the bioassay. The methods described here detail a new approach to eliminate different runs, by using a new porous graphitic carbon stationary phase. Firstly we describe the separation of 13 PST that belong to different groups, taking into account the side-chains of substituents, in one single run of less than 30 min with good reproducibility. The method was assayed in four shellfish matrices: mussel (Mytillus galloprovincialis), clam (Pecten maximus), scallop (Ruditapes decussatus) and oyster (Ostrea edulis). The results for all of the parameters studied are provided, and the detection limits for the majority of toxins were improved with regard to previous liquid chromatography methods: the lowest values were those for decarbamoyl-gonyautoxin 2 (dcGTX2) and gonyautoxin 2 (GTX2) in mussel (0.0001 mg saxitoxin (STX)·diHCl kg−1 for each toxin), decarbamoyl-saxitoxin (dcSTX) in clam (0.0003 mg STX·diHCl kg−1), N-sulfocarbamoyl-gonyautoxins 2 and 3 (C1 and C2) in scallop (0.0001 mg STX·diHCl kg−1 for each toxin) and dcSTX (0.0003 mg STX·diHCl kg−1 ) in oyster; gonyautoxin 2 (GTX2) showed the highest limit of detection in oyster (0.0366 mg STX·diHCl kg−1). Secondly, we propose a modification of the method for the simultaneous analysis of PST and TTX, with some minor changes in the solvent gradient, although the detection limit for TTX does not allow its use nowadays for regulatory purposes.