bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Load-bearing characteristics of fibreglass uplift anchors in weathered rock
Authors: Kuang Zheng , Zhang Ming-yi , Bai Xiao-yu
Published: March 2019

Pull-out destructive tests on six fibreglass anchors and four steel anchors for resisting the uplift of foundations in medium-weathered granite were conducted. The test results revealed two modes of shear failure for the anchors: at the interface between the anchor rod and the mortar interface (the first interface) and at the interface between the mortar and surrounding rock (the second interface). With M32·5 mortar and a 2 m anchorage length, the ultimate pull-out bearing capacity of the fibreglass anchor rods and steel rods of 28 mm diameter was 225 kN and that of fibreglass anchor rods of 32 mm diameter was 250 kN, which satisfied engineering requirements. An exponential–power–linear function model was established that better described the load–slip curves of the anchor rods. The average bond strengths at the first and second interfaces were found to be 1·50–1·54 MPa and 0·32–0·37 MPa, respectively, which were slightly lower than those for steel rods. The average bond strength at the second interface of the fibreglass anchor rods increased with the rod diameter.
Exploring the micromechanics of non-active clays by way of virtual DEM experiments
Authors: Pagano Arianna Gea , Magnanimo Vanessa , Weinhart Thomas , Tarantino Alessandro
Published: March 2019

The micromechanical behaviour of clays cannot be investigated experimentally in a direct fashion due to the small size of clay particles. An insight into clay mechanical behaviour at the particle scale can be gained by way of virtual experiments based on the discrete-element method (DEM). So far, most DEM models for clays have been designed on the basis of theoretical formulations of inter-particle interactions, with limited experimental evidence of their actual control over the clay's macroscopic response. This paper presents a simplified two-dimensional DEM framework where contact laws were inferred from indirect experimental evidence at the microscale provided by Pedrotti and Tarantino in 2017 (particle-to-particle interactions were probed experimentally by varying the pore-fluid chemistry, and the resulting effect was explored by way of scanning electron microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry). The proposed contact laws were successfully tested against their ability to reproduce qualitatively the compression behaviour of clay with pore fluids of varying pH and dielectric permittivity. The DEM framework presented in this work was intentionally kept simple in order to demonstrate the robustness of the micromechanical concept underlying the proposed contact laws. It is anticipated that a satisfactory quantitative prediction would be achieved by moving to a three-dimensional formulation, by considering polydisperse specimens and by refining the contact laws.
Solidaridad, responsabilidad y control emocional:
Authors: Castiblanco-Cadena Juan Antonio , Arango-Angulo Diana Cecilia , Niño-Ramírez Diana Carolina
Published: March 2019

Introducción: este artículo muestra cómo la responsabilidad, la solidaridad y el control de las emociones son una alternativa para mejorar la convivencia entre los estudiantes del grado quinto de la Institución Educativa Distrital Manuel del Socorro Rodríguez, jornada tarde. Aquí se constata la trascendencia que tienen los valores de la responsabilidad, la solidaridad y el control de las emociones para el mejoramiento de la convivencia entre los estudiantes. Metodología: corresponde a una investigación de campo con carácter cualitativo, descriptivo-propositivo que involucra una población de 120 estudiantes entre 9 y 11 años de edad, de la cual se tomó una muestra aleatoria de 53 educandos. Resultados: se constata que los valores tratados, y el manejo de las emociones, con mediación de las Tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (tic), coadyuvan el mejoramiento del clima escolar de los estudiantes, fortaleciendo relaciones interpersonales armoniosas entre ellos. Conclusiones: el conocimiento, manejo y gestión de las emociones propias y ajenas en los estudiantes y docentes, sobre todo las relacionadas con la ira, el temor y el enojo, son importantes en el manejo y la solución de los conflictos generados en la convivencia escolar. De igual manera, los estudiantes parecen comprender los dos valores; sin embargo, se presenta una contradicción con los resultados de la evaluación de la convivencia, lo que da lugar a la necesidad de la apropiación, por su parte, en la vida diaria, con el fin de generar una sana convivencia.
CUT&RUN: Targeted in situ genome-wide profiling with high efficiency for low cell numbers v2
Authors: Henikoff Steven
Published: March 2019

We previously described a novel alternative to Chromatin Immunoprecipitation, Cleavage Under Targets & Release Using Nuclease (CUT&RUN), in which unfixed permeabilized cells are incubated with antibody, followed by binding of a Protein A-Micrococcal Nuclease (pA/MNase) fusion protein (1). Upon activation of tethered MNase, the bound complex is excised and released into the supernatant for DNA extraction and sequencing. Here we introduce four enhancements to CUT&RUN: 1) a hybrid Protein A-Protein G-MNase construct that expands antibody compatibility and simplifies purification; 2) a modified digestion protocol that prevents premature release of the nuclease-bound complex; 3) a calibration strategy based on carry-over ofE. coliDNA introduced with the fusion protein; and 4) a novel peak-calling strategy customized for the low-background profiles obtained using CUT&RUN. These new features, coupled with the previously described low-cost, high efficiency, high reproducibility and high-throughput capability of CUT&RUN make it the method of choice for routine epigenomic profiling.
Apparent digestibility of protein and amino acids (%) in the experimental diets and retention of protein and amino acids (%) for grouper v1
Authors: Chen Yan , Ma Jun , Huang Hai , zhong Honggan
Published: March 2019

The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADCs) of crude protein and amino acids of fish meal (FM) and soybean protein concentration （SPC）were determined for juvenile pearl gentian grouper.
Amino acid composition of diets , muscle and serum of fish detection v3
Authors: Chen Yan , Ma Jun , Huang Hai , Zhong Honggan
Published: March 2019

This standard is suitable for the determination of total amino acids and free amino acids in formula feed, concentrated feed, premixed feed with additives, feed raw materials, single feed and premixed feed, muscle and serum of animal .(GB/T 18246-200, National Standards of the People's Republic of China)
Periphrases in media headlines
Authors: Bulakh Maya
Published: March 2019

The stylistic potential of periphrases in the headlines of media texts is analyzed. The relevance of the stated topic is due to the important role of the headline in media texts, its polyfunctional nature. The main functions of the headline, in particular: nominative, informative, expressive, advertising, manipulative – correspond to the basic functions of the media (information and influence on the audience). In accordance with these functions, the headline actualizes the expressive and evaluative features of the language, one of which is the periphrasis. Periphrastic constructions in the headlines reinforce the semantic coherence of the text, a positive or negative assessment, and emotion. The factual material illustrates the use of allusion periphrasis that creates secondary contextual nominations, and conveys the basic meaning of information in an expressive periphrastic form. The meaning of such transformed periphrastic constructions is revealed in the structure of the text, thereby attracting the recipient and encouraging him to read the media material. As the factual material shows, in the structure of media headlines, as a rule, the well-known periphrases are used with a special cultural connotation fixed in the consciousness of the society. It is also noted that transformed periphrases often represent an allusion to known cultural phenomena (historical events, the names of movies, fiction). In the work, it is noted that the periphrastic constructions, replacing the same denotation in the headline, subtitle, and main text, create an additional semantic coherence of the text. The analysis made it possible to determine that the periphrasis in the header of the media text also combines the structural components of the title and paragraphs, affects the architectonics of the entire media text, accumulating information important for the perception of the text.
The study allows us to conclude that the periphrasis in the headline structure affects the emotive and logical levels of perception. On the basis of illustrations, it is shown that periphrases in headings are an effective tool for achieving the main goal of media texts – the impact on the recipient.
Ukrainian research perspective in the context of stylistic discussions of the XVI International congress of slavists
Authors: Shevchenko Larysa
Published: March 2019

The article analyzes "state and status" of functional stylistics in Ukraine in the beginning of the 21st century in the categories and concepts of modern linguistics. The research context of the analysis is determined by comparison with the stylistic issues of the XVI International Congress of Slavists, held on August 20-27, 2018 in Belgrade (Serbia). Issues of synchronization of scientific consciousness with time of culture, its chronological sections, configurations of development, evolution of cultural consciousness, changes of cultural verbalized patterns and reasons for emergence of new ideas and non-standard intellectual reflection in the scientific knowledge of linguistic consciousness are being actualized. It is stated that the triad "human - science - time of culture" is dominant in linguistics, defining at the same time the peculiarities of the information age: the synthesis of humanistic tradition and new, paradoxical scientific ideas is quite representative for world linguistics, which is clearly represented in Ukrainian stylistics. The author unfolds the thesis about the formation of scientific consciousness as an existential search for the spiritual affinity of researchers. Thus, in the development of functional stylistics, one can observe continuity from F. de Saussure to the linguists of the XXI century, where the Geneva, Baden or Prague schools ideologically formed various national scientific discourses. The problematic aspects in the development of modern stylistics with their projection into Ukrainian linguistics are considered: the systematic nature of operational stylistic terminology, the diffusion of the objectivity of various areas of linguistics, in particular, functional stylistics, communicative linguistics and genomics, logics of formation of neolinguistics as a subject area that relies on synthesis of linguistic functionalism and other branches of human sciences, etc. The criteria of the Ukrainian research perspective in modern stylistics are formulated.
Fixed Points and Stability Analysis in the Motion of Human Heart Valve Leaflet
Authors: Emagbetere Eyere , Salau Tajudeen A.O. , Oluwole Oluleke O.
Published: March 2019

This work was set out to gain further insight into the kinetics of the human heart valve leaflet. The Korakianitis and Shi lumped parameter model was adopted for this study. The fixed points were determined, and then, their stability properties were assessed by evaluating eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrices. Normal physiological parameters for the valve model were simulated; based on which, a local bifurcation diagram was generated. Phase portraits were plotted from simulated responses, and were used to observe the qualitative properties of the valve leaflet motion. The evaluated fixed points were found to be dependent on pressure and flow effects, and independent on friction or damping effect. Observed switching of stability between the two fixed points indicated that the leaflet motion undergoes transcritical bifurcation. Of the two fixed points, one is always either a stable spiral or generative node while the other is a saddle. Numerical simulations were carried out to verify the analytical solutions.
Optimization of laser cladding process for additive repair of high temperature and high pressure valve sealing surface
Authors: Che Lei
Published: March 2019

Laser cladding technology is highly suitable for the remanufacturing of thin-walled and easily deformable parts due to its concentrated energy density. Due to the high temperature and high pressure corrosion environment, the valve sealing surface is prone to corrosion, wear and other failures. A nickel-based tungsten carbide alloy layer was prepared on the valve sealing surface substrate material by laser cladding process. By designing orthogonal experiments, the effects of laser power (P), scanning speed (Vb), powder feeding rate (Vf), and WC content (wt%) on the alloy layer were investigated. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method including macroscopic quality, microstructure, microhardness, anti-wear performance, oxidation resistance, compactness and corrosion resistance was proposed. The experimental results showed that the hardness, oxidation resistance and corrosion resistance of the laser alloy layer are significantly improved compared with the matrix; the optimum process parameters and the addition ratio of WC powder are laser power (P) of 1.1 kW and scanning speed (Vb) of 800 mm/min. The powder feeding rate (Vf) was 20%, and the WC content was 20% by weight.
Comprehensive study of salivary gland neoplasms: single department study in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Muthuchitra S. , Saravanaselvan V. , Malarvizhi R.
Published: March 2019

Background: Pathologies of salivary glands are common in the general population. Of them few are neoplasms-benign or malignant. The presentation of salivary gland pathologies are both to general surgeons and otorhinolaryngologists of the same hospital. The presentation to concerned treating surgeon is based on the symptoms during presentation. This study aims at the various types of salivary gland pathologies requiring surgical intervention and the rate of recurrence following surgery in a single department.

Methods: Retrospective study was conducted. Study period was from May 2017 to February 2019. All salivary gland neoplasms were studied for presentation and recurrence following surgery.  

Results: Intraoperative difficulties and post-operative complications more common in malignant tumors. Female gender is more commonly affected by benign neoplasms. There is no gender predilection in malignant neoplasms. Facial nerve is most common nerve to get affected in pre-operative and during surgery as well.

Conclusions: Neoplasms of salivary glands are common in females though it has equal incidence in malignancy. Facial nerve is most commonly affected as complication in malignant neoplasms.
Концепция интегрированной логистики как направление совершенствования информационного обеспечения деятельности сельскохозяйственных потребительских кооперативов
Authors: Павлов Александр Юрьевич , Кудашева Мария Семёновна , Кармышова Юлия Владимировна
Published: March 2019

В рамках исследования приведены результаты опроса представителей сельскохозяйственных кооперативов Пензенской области, на основе которого авторами обоснованы проблемы развития малого агробизнеса. Особое внимание уделено недостаточности информационного обеспечения хозяйствующих субъектов и последствиям влияния данного фактора на деятельность кооперативов.
В качестве инновационного подхода к организации информационной подсистемы организационно-экономической модели функционирования кооперации в статье предлагается рассматривать применение концепции интегрированной логистики. В современных условиях невозможно формирование материального потока с оптимальными финансовыми издержками без эффективного информационного потока. Только в рамках объединения материального, финансового и информационного потоков возможно достижение целевой функции кооператива – повышение устойчивости его развития путем увеличения доступности информации и стабильности финансовых потоков.
Такой взгляд будет интересен руководителям и специалистам сельскохозяйственных потребительских кооперативов, представителям инициативных групп, пожелавшим организовать сельскохозяйственный кооператив, работникам районных, областных и федеральных органов управления АПК, а также сотрудникам консультационных организаций, преподавателям и студентам вузов.
Роль человеческого капитала в системе экономической безопасности региона
Authors: Макаров Иван Николаевич , Почепаев Иван Андреевич
Published: March 2019

Вопросам экономической безопасности в нашей стране стало уделяться внимание с началом рыночных реформ и формирования новой России. Однако, вопросам формирования основ, истоков экономической безопасности – а именно человеческому фактору, до настоящего времени внимания уделяется незаслуженно мало.
Поэтому именно анализу роли человека и институциональных основ формирования и функционирования человеческого капитала региона как базиса формирования экономической безопасности на региональном и, в конечном итоге – на национальном уровне и посвящена нага статья.
Alternative therapies in Staphylococcus aureus diseases.
Authors: Kurlenda Julianna , Grinholc Mariusz
Published: March 2019

Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen responsible for health-care-associated infections as well as community acquired ones. It is the etiological factor of a wide spectrum of infections. Therapeutic problems are caused by resistance of S. aureus to many antibiotics, specifically to methicillin (methicillin-resistant S. aureus, MRSA). In such cases a limited spectrum of antibiotics may be used and prolonged hospitalization is costly. Hence, there is an urgent need for the development of alternative antibiotic therapeutics. This work reviews the current knowledge concerning prospective treatment of staphylococcal diseases.
Biochemical and medical importance of vanadium compounds.
Authors: Korbecki Jan , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena , Gutowska Izabela , Chlubek Dariusz
Published: March 2019

Vanadium belongs to the group of transition metals and is present in the air and soil contaminants in large urban agglomerations due to combustion of fossil fuels. It forms numerous inorganic compounds (vanadyl sulfate, sodium metavanadate, sodium orthovanadate, vanadium pentoxide) as well as complexes with organic compounds (BMOV, BEOV, METVAN). Depending on the research model, vanadium compounds exhibit antitumor or carcinogenic properties. Vanadium compounds generate ROS as a result of Fenton's reaction or of the reaction with atmospheric oxygen. They inactivate the Cdc25B(2) phosphatase and lead to degradation of Cdc25C, which induces G(2)/M phase arrest. In cells, vanadium compounds activate numerous signaling pathways and transcription factors, including PI3K-PKB/Akt-mTOR, NF-κB, MEK1/2-ERK, that cause cell survival or increased expression and release of VEGF. Vanadium compounds inhibit p53-dependent apoptosis and promote entry into the S phase of cells containing functional p53 protein. In addition, vanadium compounds, in particular organic derivatives, have insulin-mimetic and antidiabetic properties. Vanadium compounds lower blood glucose levels in animals and in clinical trials. They also inhibit the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B. By activating the PI3K-PKB/Akt pathway, vanadium compaunds increase the cellular uptake of glucose by the GLUT4 transporter. The PKB/Akt pathway is also used to inactivate glycogen synthase kinase-3. The impact of vanadium compounds on inflammatory reactions has not been fully studied. Vanadium pentoxide causes expression of COX-2 and the release of proinflammatory cytokines in a human lung fibroblast model. Other vanadium compounds activate NF-κB in macrophages by activating IKKβ.
Application of (1)H and (31)P NMR to topological description of a model of biological membrane fusion: topological description of a model of biological membrane fusion.
Authors: Janiak-Osajca Agnieszka , Timoszyk Anna
Published: March 2019

The process of biological membrane fusion can be analysed by topological methods. Mathematical analysis of the fusion process of vesicles indicated two significant facts: the formation of an inner, transient structure (hexagonal phase - H(II)) and a translocation of some lipids within the membrane. This shift had a vector character and only occurred from the outer to the inner layer. Model membrane composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylserine (PS) was studied. (31)P- and (1)H-NMR methods were used to describe the process of fusion. (31)P-NMR spectra of multilamellar vesicles (MLV) were taken at various temperatures and concentrations of Ca(2+) ions (natural fusiogenic agent). A (31)P-NMR spectrum with the characteristic shape of the H(II) phase was obtained for the molar Ca(2+)/PS ratio of 2.0. During the study, (1)H-NMR and (31)P-NMR spectra for small unilamellar vesicle (SUV), which were dependent on time (concentration of Pr(3+) ions was constant), were also recorded. The presence of the paramagnetic Pr(3+) ions permits observation of separate signals from the hydrophilic part of the inner and outer lipid bilayers. The obtained results suggest that in the process of fusion translocation of phospholipid molecules takes place from the outer to the inner layer of the vesicle and size of the vesicles increase. The NMR study has showed that the intermediate state of the fusion process caused by Ca(2+) ions is the H(II) phase. The experimental results obtained are in agreement with the topological model as well.
Locally isolated yeasts from Malaysia: identification, phylogenetic study and characterization.
Authors: Oslan Siti Nurbaya , Salleh Abu Bakar , Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abd , Basri Mahiran , Chor Adam Leow Thean
Published: March 2019

Yeasts are a convenient platform for many applications. They have been widely used as the expression hosts. There is a need to have a new yeast expression system to contribute the molecular cloning demands. Eight yeast isolates were screened from various environment sources and identified through ribosomal DNA (rDNA) Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS). Full sequence of the rDNA ITS region for each isolate was BLASTed and phylogenetic study was constructed by using MEGA4. Among the isolates, isolate WB from 'ragi' (used to ferment carbohydrates) could be identified as a new species in order Saccharomycetales according to rDNA ITS region, morphology and biochemical tests. Isolate SO (from spoiled orange), RT (rotten tomato) and RG (different type of 'ragi') were identified as Pichia sp. Isolates R1 and R2, S4 and S5 (from the surrounding of a guava tree) were identified as Issatchenkia sp. and Hanseniaspora sp., respectively. Geneticin, 50 µg/mL, was determined to be the antibiotic marker for all isolates excepted for isolates RT and SO which used 500 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL Zeocin, respectively. Intra-extracellular proteins were screened for lipolytic activity at 30°C and 70°C. Thermostable lipase activity was detected in isolates RT and R1 with 0.6 U/mg and 0.1 U/mg, respectively. In conclusion, a new yeast-vector system for isolate WB can be developed by using phleomycin or geneticin as the drugs resistance marker. Moreover, strains RT and R1 can be investigated as a novel source of a thermostable lipase.
Variation of the cholesterol content in breast milk during 10 days collection at early stages of lactation.
Authors: Kamelska Anna M , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Bryl Krzysztof
Published: March 2019

More and more research is done concerning nutritional programming. Human milk nutrients which are consumed by infants can influence their health in later life. High level of cholesterol in human milk paradoxically lowers the cholesterol concentration in blood in adults. During the course of human lactation the cholesterol concentration decreases from 31 mg/100cm(3) (colostrum) to 16 mg/100 cm(3) (mature milk). According to Scopesi et al., 2002, Clin Nutr 21: 379-384, cholesterol concentration in mature milk ranged from 6.5 to 18.4 mg/100 cm(3). The aim of the study was to assess the variations in breast milk cholesterol content during 10 day collection at early lactation. 48 samples of human milk were analyzed. Mean age of women was 31 years. Women were collecting samples during 10 days of an early lactation stage (1-3 months after delivery). An Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR-ATR) method for easy and rapid determination of cholesterol in human milk was elaborated. Cholesterol content assessed by the FTIR method ranged from 3.36 to 12.98 mg/100 cm(3). Results indicate that milk cholesterol concentration during 10 consecutive days of early lactation is highly variable. Cholesterol content depends on an individual. Therefore it is suggested that not only the period of lactation but also mother's diet, age, season and place of residence are important factors determining cholesterol content.
New benzimidazole derivatives with potential cytotoxic activity--study of their stability by RP-HPLC.
Authors: Błaszczak-Świątkiewicz Katarzyna , Mirowski Marek , Kaplińska Katarzyna , Kruszyński Rafał , Trzęsowska-Kruszyńska Agata , Mikiciuk-Olasik Elżbieta
Published: March 2019

Obtained benzimidazole derivatives, our next synthesized heterocyclic compounds, belong to a new group of chemical bondings with potential anticancer properties (Błaszczak-Świątkiewicz & Mikiciuk-Olasik, 2006, J Liguid Chrom Rel Tech 29: 2367-2385; Błaszczak-Świątkiewicz & Mikiciuk-Olasik, 2008, Wiad Chem 62: 11-12, in Polish; Błaszczak-Świątkiewicz & Mikiciuk-Olasik, 2011, J Liguid Chrom Rel Tech 34: 1901-1912). We used HPLC analysis to determine stability of these compounds in 0.2% DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide). Optimisation of the chromatographic system and validation of the established analytical method were performed. Reversed phases (RP-18) and a 1:1 mixture of acetate buffer (pH 4.5) and acetonitrile as a mobile phase were used for all the analysed compounds at a flow rate 1.0 mL/min. The eluted compounds were monitored using a UV detector, the wavelength was specific for compounds 6 and 9 and compounds 7 and 10. The retention time was specific for all four compounds. The used method was found to have linearity in the concentration range of (0.1 mg/mL-0.1 μg/mL) with a correlation coefficient not less than r(2)=0.9995. Statistical validation of the method proved it to be a simple, highly precise and accurate way to determine the stability of benzimidazole derivatives in 0.2% DMSO. The recoveries of all four compounds examined were in the range 99.24-100.00%. The developed HPLC analysis revealed that the compounds studied remain homogeneous in 0.2% DMSO for up to 96 h and that the analysed N-oxide benzimidazole derivatives do not disintegrate into their analogues - benzimidazole derivatives. Compounds 8, 6 and 9 exhibit the best cytotoxic properties under normoxic conditions when tested against cells of human malignant melanoma WM 115.
Correlation between mammalian cell cytotoxicity of flavonoids and the redox potential of phenoxyl radical/phenol couple.
Authors: Marozienė Audronė , Nemeikaitė-Čėnienė Aušra , Vidžiūnaitė Regina , Čėnas Narimantas
Published: March 2019

Flavonoids exhibit prooxidant cytotoxicity in mammalian cells due to the formation of free radicals and oxidation products possessing quinone or quinomethide structure. However, it is unclear how the cytotoxicity of flavonoids depends on the ease of their single-electron oxidation in aqueous medium, i.e., the redox potential of the phenoxyl radical/phenol couple. We verified the previously calculated redox potentials for several flavonoids according to their rates of reduction of cytochrome c and ferricyanide, and proposed experimentally-based values of redox potentials for myricetin, fisetin, morin, kaempferol, galangin, and naringenin. We found that the cytotoxicity of flavonoids (n=10) in bovine leukemia virus-transformed lamb kidney fibroblasts (line FLK) and murine hepatoma (line MH-22a) increases with a decrease in their redox potential of the phenoxyl radical/phenol couple and an increase in their lipophilicity. Their cytotoxicity was decreased by antioxidants and inhibitors of cytochromes P-450, α-naphthoflavone and isoniazide, and increased by an inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase, 3,5-dinitrocatechol. It shows that although the prooxidant action of flavonoids may be the main factor in their cytotoxicity, the hydroxylation and oxidative demethylation by cytochromes P-450 and O-methylation by catechol-O-methyltransferase can significantly modulate the cytotoxicity of the parent compounds.
Correlation between butyrylcholinesterase variants and sensitivity to soman toxicity.
Authors: Dimov Dimo , Kanev Kamen , Dimova Ivanka
Published: March 2019

Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is synthesized in the liver and found in high concentrations in blood plasma, liver, heart, pancreas, vascular endothelium, skin, brain white matter, smooth muscle cells and adipocytes. BChE is a non specific enzyme that hydrolyzes different choline esters (succinylcholine, mivacurium) and many other drugs such as aspirin, cocaine and procaine. The enzyme is also considered as a bioscavenger due to its ability to neutralize the toxic effects of organophosphorus compounds (nervous system fs agents) such as soman. BChE displays several polymorphisms that influence its serum activity; therefore they could determine the individual sensitivity to chemical nerve agents. In this study, we investigated the correlation between BChE variants and the degree of enzyme inhibition and reactivation after soman application on blood samples of 726 individuals. The blood samples of individuals expressing abnormal variants, were more sensitive to soman compared to variants of homozygotes and heterozygotes for U-allele. We found significant differences in the degree of enzyme reactivation between different variants (with and without U-presence).
Are lycopene metabolites metabolically active?
Authors: Ford Nikki A , Erdman John W
Published: March 2019

Lycopene is the most abundant carotenoid found in tomatoes and thus has been touted as the bioactive component for the reduced risk of chronic diseases such as prostate cancer. We and others hypothesize that lycopene metabolites are responsible for positively modulating biomarkers and risk factors for the prevention of chronic diseases. Lycopene metabolites circulate in serum and accumulate in tissues at concentrations equivalent to bioactive retinoids. Recent studies report that lycopene metabolites reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, induce apoptosis, enhance gap junction communication between cells, alter normal cell cycle progression, and modulate androgen signaling pathways. Here we review recent literature and provide new evidence to suggest that lycopene metabolites may be bioactive at physiological concentrations.
Lycopene as a guardian of redox signalling.
Authors: Palozza Paola , Catalano Assunta , Simone Rossella , Cittadini Achille
Published: March 2019

It has been suggested that lycopene, the major carotenoid found in tomato, exhibits health-beneficial effects by virtue of its antioxidant activity. However, recent literature suggests that lycopene can actually "perform" roles independent of such capacity and involving a direct modulation of redox signalling. Reactive oxygen species are known to act as second messengers in the modulation of cellular signalling leading to gene expression changes and pharmacological responses. Lycopene may control redox-sensitive molecular targets, affecting enzyme activities and expressions and modulating the activation of MAPKs and transcription factors, such as NF-κB and AP-1, Nrf2.
Interactions of dietary carotenoids with singlet oxygen (1O2) and free radicals: potential effects for human health.
Authors: Böhm Fritz , Edge Ruth , Truscott T George
Published: March 2019

The dietary carotenoids provide photoprotection to photosynthetic organisms, the eye and the skin. The protection mechanisms involve both quenching of singlet oxygen and of damaging free radicals. The mechanisms for singlet oxygen quenching and protection against free radicals are quite different - indeed, under some conditions, quenching of free radicals can lead to a switch from a beneficial anti-oxidant process to damaging pro-oxidative situation. Furthermore, while skin protection involves β-carotene or lycopene from a tomato-rich diet, protection of the macula involves the hydroxyl-carotenoids (xanthophylls) zeaxanthin and lutein. Time resolved studies of singlet oxygen and free radicals and their interaction with carotenoids via pulsed laser and fast electron spectroscopy (pulse radiolysis) and the possible involvement of amino acids are discussed and used to (1) speculate on the anti- and pro-oxidative mechanisms, (2) determine the most efficient singlet oxygen quencher and (3) demonstrate the benefits to photoprotection of the eye from the xanthophylls rather than from hydrocarbon carotenoids such as β-carotene.
Modulation of the human preadipocyte mitochondrial activity by beta-carotene.
Authors: Sliwa Agnieszka , Góralska Joanna , Czech Urszula , Gruca Anna , Polus Anna , Zapała Barbara , Dembińska-Kieć Aldona
Published: March 2019

Increased ROS generation by the overload by metabolic substrates mitochondria paralleled by decrease of antioxidant activity are typical events found in metabolic syndrome and diabetes type 2. Metabolites of beta-carotene (BC) such as retinoic acid (RA), as well as low concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) modify the mitochondrial bioenergetic function. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of beta-carotene on mitochondrial activity in human preadipocytes. BC used in concentrations, 10 or 30 µM, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibited mitochondrial respiration and decreased cellular ATP content. We conclude, that BC, the known antioxidant may decrease oxidative phosphorylation capacity of mitochondria.
Spectroscopy analysis for simultaneous determination of lycopene and β-carotene in fungal biomass of Blakeslea trispora.
Authors: Soroka Iaroslav M , Narushin Valeriy G , Turiyansky Yuriy D , Tyurenkov Alexey A
Published: March 2019

Blakeslea trispora is a good alternative source for producing such carotenoids as lycopene and β-carotene. The objective of this research was to elaborate a method for the simultaneous determination of lycopene and β-carotene in Blakeslea trispora products using a usual UV-vis spectrophotometer. The standard solutions of the mixture of different concentrations of β-carotene and lycopene were measured with the UV-vis method and correlation formula for the extinction coefficients of 1% standard solution of lycopene in the solvent (hexane) and the ratios of the optical densities at the character peaks of 470 and 502 nm was elaborated. This gives a possibility to calculate the concentrations of lycopene and β-carotene in the mixture. The prediction quality of the UV-vis method was sufficient and the obtained results were very close to the ones, being measured with the HPLC technique. The proposed method can be used for both routine industrial work and academic research, providing the rapid analysis for simultaneous measurements of lycopene and β-carotene.
Lycopene recovery from tomato peel under mild conditions assisted by enzymatic pre-treatment and non-ionic surfactants.
Authors: Papaioannou Emmanouil H , Karabelas Anastasios J
Published: March 2019

The tomato processing industry generates large quantities of tomato peel residues, usually creating environmental problems. These residues are a significant source of lycopene, thus providing an attractive alternative for profitable handling of these otherwise problematic by-products. The enzymatic pretreatment of these residues for lycopene recovery has already been employed, although the use of surfactants for enhancing the recovery has not been examined so far. The enzymatic pretreatment of tomato peels, using two commercially available pectinolytic enzyme preparations, was evaluated suggesting that there is an optimum pretreatment time of about 1 h, enzyme amount 250 Units/mL and no significant pH influence. Lycopene surfactant - assisted extraction was further investigated, showing that, among eight surfactants used, the most suitable was "Span 20", with an optimum ratio of 6-7 surfactant molecules per lycopene molecule. Sequential enzymatic pretreatment and surfactant-assisted extraction (30 min for each step) was evaluated leading to an improved lycopene extraction yield, with a somewhat smaller surfactant molar ratio (i.e. 4-5). In the latter case, the yield of lycopene recovery was almost four times greater compared to just 1 hr enzymatic pretreatment, and was approximately ten times greater compared to the recovery from untreated peels. Furthermore, such lipophilic compound recovery, avoiding the use of organic solvents, is environmentally attractive and ensures direct lycopene use in the food and cosmetics industries.
Extraction and analysis of carotenoids from the New Zealand sea urchin Evechinus chloroticus gonads.
Authors: Garama Daniel , Bremer Phil , Carne Alan
Published: March 2019

Sea urchin gonad (roe) is a highly valued food in Japan and North America. Gonad price is strongly influenced by quality, with appearance, especially colour being a major determinant. Previous attempts to extract a carotenoid profile from the New Zealand sea urchin species Evechinus chloroticus have been challenging due to the large amount of lipid present in the gonad. A carotenoid extraction and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis method was developed to reduce lipid contamination by incorporating a saponification and lipid cold precipitation in the extraction procedure. This method enabled greater carotenoid purity and enhanced analysis by HPLC. Echinenone was found to be the main carotenoid present in all E. chloroticus gonads. Dark coloured gonads contained higher levels of fucoxanthin/fucoxanthinol, β-carotene and xanthophylls such as astaxanthin and canthaxanthin. This information on the modification and deposition of carotenoids will help in the development of diets to enhance gonad colour.
Zeaxanthin epoxidation - an in vitro approach.
Authors: Kuczyńska Paulina , Latowski Dariusz , Niczyporuk Sylvia , Olchawa-Pajor Monika , Jahns Peter , Gruszecki Wiesław I , Strzałka Kazimierz
Published: March 2019

Zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZE) is an enzyme operating in the violaxanthin cycle, which is involved in photoprotective mechanisms. In this work model systems to study zeaxanthin (Zx) epoxidation were developed. Two assay systems are presented in which epoxidation of Zx was observed. In these assays two mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana which have active only one of the two xanthophyll cycle enzymes were used. The npq1 mutant possesses an active ZE and is thus able to convert Zx to violaxanthin (Vx) but the violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) is inactive, so that Vx cannot be converted to Zx. The other mutant, npq2, possesses an active VDE and can convert exogenous Vx to Zx under strong light conditions but reverse reaction is not possible. The first assay containing thylakoids from npq1 and npq2 mutants of A. thaliana gave positive results and high efficiency of epoxidation reaction was observed. The amount of Zx was reduced by 25%. To optimize high efficiency of epoxidation reaction additional factors facilitating both fusion of the two types of thylakoids and incorporation of Zx to their membranes were also studied. The second kind of assay contained npq1 mutant thylakoids of A. thaliana supplemented with exogenous Zx and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG). Experiments with different proportions of Zx and MGDG showed that their optimal ratio is 1:60. In such system, due to epoxidation, the amount of Zx was reduced by 38% of its initial level. The in vitro systems of Zx epoxidation described in this paper enable analysis some properties of the ZE without necessity of its isolation.
Can macular xanthophylls replace cholesterol in formation of the liquid-ordered phase in lipid-bilayer membranes?
Authors: Subczynski Witold K , Wisniewska-Becker Anna , Widomska Justyna
Published: March 2019

Lateral organization of membranes made from binary mixtures of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) or dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and macular xanthophylls (lutein or zeaxanthin) was investigated using the saturation-recovery (SR) EPR spin-labeling discrimination by oxygen transport (DOT) method in which the bimolecular collision rate of molecular oxygen with the nitroxide spin label is measured. This work was undertaken to examine whether or not lutein and zeaxanthin, macular xanthophylls that parallel cholesterol in its function as a regulator of both membrane fluidity and hydrophobicity, can parallel other structural functions of cholesterol, including formation of the liquid-ordered phase in membranes. The DOT method permits discrimination of different membrane phases when the collision rates (oxygen transport parameter) differ in these phases. Additionally, membrane phases can be characterized by the oxygen transport parameter in situ without the need for separation, which provides information about the dynamics of each phase. In gel-phase membranes, two coexisting phases were discriminated in the presence of macular xanthophylls - namely, the liquid-ordered-like and solid-ordered-like phases. However, in fluid-phase membranes, xanthophylls only induce the solitary liquid-ordered-like phase, while at similar concentrations, cholesterol induces coexisting liquid-ordered and liquid-disordered phases. No significant differences between the effects of lutein and zeaxanthin were found.
Carotenoid composition and in vitro pharmacological activity of rose hips.
Authors: Horváth Györgyi , Molnár Péter , Radó-Turcsi Erika , Deli József , Kawase Masami , Satoh Kazue , Tanaka Toru , Tani Satoru , Sakagami Hiroshi , Gyémánt Nóra , Molnár József
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present study was to compare carotenoid extracts of Rose hips (Rosa canina L.) with regard to their phytochemical profiles and their in vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), cytotoxic, multidrug resistance (MDR) reversal and radical scavenging activity. Carotenoid composition was investigated in the different fractionation of rose hips, using extraction methods. Six main carotenoids - epimers of neochrome, lutein, zeaxanthin, rubixanthin, lycopene, β,β-carotene - were identified from Rose hips by their chromatographic behavior and UV-visible spectra, which is in accordance with other studies on carotenoids in this plant material. The active principles in the carotenoid extract might differ, depending upon the extraction procedures.
Content of carotenoids in roots of seventeen cultivars of Daucus carota L.
Authors: Mech-Nowak Aleksandra , Swiderski Adam , Kruczek Michał , Luczak Irena , Kostecka-Gugała Anna
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to compare the content of carotenoids in seventeen cultivars of carrots grown in Poland. Conventional orange cultivars with rarely grown were compared: white, yellow and purple with yellow core cultivars. To determine the content of carotenoids, extracts from lyophilized carrot roots were prepared and analyzed by spectrophotometric as well as HPLC methods with DAD detector. The highest content of carotenoids was found in cultivars: 'Korund F(1)' (48 mg/100g of fresh weight) and 'Salsa F(1)' (36 mg/100g of fresh weight). The antioxidant properties of selected cultivars were compared using the DPPH method.
Comparison of dietary supplementation with lutein diacetate and lutein: a pilot study of the effects on serum and macular pigment.
Authors: Landrum John , Bone Richard , Mendez Vanesa , Valenciaga Anisley , Babino Darwin
Published: March 2019

The responses of subjects taking a 20 mg/day lutein diacetate supplement were compared with that for a 20 mg/day crystalline lutein or a placebo. Ten subjects, assigned to each of three groups, lutein diacetate (group 1), lutein (group 2), and a placebo (group 3), were supplemented for 24 weeks. Groups 1 and 2 consumed a dose equivalent to 20 mg per day of free lutein. Serum samples, collected at baseline, and at weeks 6, 12, 18, and 24 were analyzed by HPLC. Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) was obtained by heterochromatic flicker photometry at baseline and weeks 6, 12, 18 and 24.
The average serum lutein concentrations for weeks 6 to 24 expressed as a ratio to the baseline value (±S.D.) were 5.52 ± 2.88 for group 1, 4.43 ± 1.61 for group 2, and 1.03 ± 0.25 for group 3. The median rate of macular pigment increase (milli-absorbance units/week) for groups 1, 2, and 3 were 2.35, 1.55, and 0.19 mAU/wk, respectively. P-values for these serum and MPOD increases are both highly significant when compared to placebo. The average serum response was about 25% higher for group 1 compared with group 2 and, the median MPOD response was 52% higher for group 1 than group 2. P-values calculated for the differences in these increases were, p = 0.066, marginally significant, for serum, and p = 0.09 approaching significance, for MPOD.
Spatial and Temporal Variations of PM2.5 Concentration and Air Quality in Isfahan City in 2016
Authors: Jadidi Hossein , Shahsavani Abbas , Mahaki Behzad
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Particular Mineral (PM) less than 2.5 (PM2.5) is considered as one of the most important pollutants with major health effects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate spatial and temporal variations of PM2.5 concentrate and air quality in Isfahan city in 2016.
Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, spatial and temporal changes in PM2.5 concentrations were evaluated. The concentrations of PM2.5 in 6 stations in Isfahan were measured. Data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS software.
Results: The results of the study showed that PM2.5 concentrations were higher in warm months than in cold months, and also in the early days of the week's PM2.5 concentrations were higher than the weekends. The total average of concentration of PM2.5 in Isfahan was 29.87 ± 10.9 μg/m3. City of Isfahan was healthy for 296 days and was in an unhealthy condition for 70 days. Furthermore, concentration of PM2.5 was higher in the central parts of Isfahan.
Conclusion: The present study showed that in most days and months of the year, the concentration of PM2.5 in Isfahan was higher than the standard limit of World Health Organization (25 μg/m3), and PM2.5 concentrations mean in the cold season was higher than the  hot season. It seems that the growth, control and the management of this pollutant is essential for citizens' health and reduction of unhealthy effects.
The Effect of UV Light on Increasing the Arsenate Resistance of Acidithiobacillus Ferrooxidans
Authors: Dehghani Abdolrahman , Dousti Behrooz , Gilavand Farhad , Kavyanifard Amirarsalan , Sedighi – Khavidak Samaneh
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Mutations are the most popular way to increase the efficiency of mineral waste bioleaching. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans are used as an important microorganism in biohydrometallurgy. Arsenate is one of the toxic elements in mines, which reduces the efficiency of A. ferrooxidans leaching. The purpose of this research was to increase the resistance of A. ferrooxidans to high concentrations of arsenate.
Materials and Methods: This research was an analytical – descriptive study. The studied population was isolated A. ferrooxidans bacterium from the Sarcheshmeh copper mine in Kerman. The highest tolerable concentration of arsenate was determined by successive cultures of this bacterium at increasing concentrations of arsenate. The bacteria were exposed to UV radiation at different times and then cultured in higher concentrations of arsenate.
Results: The results showed that the wild strain was able to grow in the medium containing 20 mM of arsenate. With adaptation, this bacterial strain could grow in medium containing increasing concentrations (40, 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 mM) of arsenate. When the bacterium was exposed to UV ray for 60 minutes, it was able to grow at a concentration of 120 mM of arsenate.
Conclusion: The results indicated a very good effect of UV ray on increasing the arsenate resistance of A. ferrooxidans. It is suggested that this modified strain can be used in real environments for bioleaching.