bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of a New, Energy-Based ΔS* Crack Driving Force for Fatigue Crack Growth Rate Description
Authors: Lesiuk Grzegorz
Published: February 2019

This paper presents the problem of the description of fatigue cracking development in metallic constructional materials. Fatigue crack growth models (mostly empirical) are usually constructed using a stress intensity factor ΔK in linear-elastic fracture mechanics. Contrary to the kinetic fatigue fracture diagrams (KFFDs) based on stress intensity factor K, new energy KFFDs show no sensitivity to mean stress effect expressed by the stress ratio R. However, in the literature there is a lack of analytical description and interpretation of this parameter in order to promote this approach in engineering practice. Therefore, based on a dimensional analysis approach, ΔH is replaced by elastic-plastic fracture mechanics parameter—the ΔJ-integral range. In this case, the invariance from stress is not clear. Hence, the main goal of this paper is the application of the new averaged (geometrically) strain energy density parameter ΔS* based on the relationship of the maximal value of J integral and its range ΔJ. The usefulness and invariance of this parameter have been confirmed for three different metallic materials, 10HNAP, 18G2A, and 19th century puddle iron from the Eiffel bridge.
Ultrasonic Vibration Assisted Electro-Discharge Machining (EDM)—An Overview
Authors: Sabyrov Nurbol , Jahan M. P. , Bilal Azat , Perveen Asma
Published: February 2019

Many of the industrial processes, including material removal operation for shape generation on the surface of material, exploit the assistance of ultrasonic vibrations. This trend of using ultrasonic vibration in order to improve the process performance is becoming more and more prominent recently. One of the significant applications of this ultrasonic vibration is in the industrial processes such as Electro-discharge machining (EDM), where ultrasonic vibration (UV) is inserted as a medium for enhancing the process performance. Mostly ultrasonic vibration is applied along with the EDM process to increase the efficiency of the process through debris cleansing from the sparking gap. There have been significant changes in ultrasonic assisted technology during the past years. Due to its inherent advantages, ultrasonic assistance infiltrated in different areas of EDM, such as wire cut EDM, micro EDM and die sinking EDM. This article presents an overview of ultrasonic vibration applications in electric discharge machining. This review provides information about modes of UV application, impacts on parameters of performance, optimization and process designing on difficult-to-cut materials. On the bases of available research works on ultrasonic vibration assisted EDM, current challenges and future research direction to improve the process capabilities are identified. Literature suggested improved material removal rate (MRR), increased surface roughness (SR) and tool wear ratio (TWR) due to the application of ultrasonic vibration assisted EDM. However, tool wear and surface roughness can be lessened with the addition of carbon nanofiber along with ultrasonic vibration. Moreover, the application of ultrasonic vibration to both tool and workpiece results in higher MRR compared to its application to single electrode.
Melt-Processed Poly(Ether Ether Ketone)/Carbon Nanotubes/Montmorillonite Nanocomposites with Enhanced Mechanical and Thermomechanical Properties
Authors: Ma Ruixue , Zhu Bo , Zeng Qianqian , Wang Pan , Wang Yaming , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: February 2019

The agglomeration problem of nanofillers, for instance, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) matrix, is still a challenging assignment due to the intrinsic inert nature of PEEK to organic solvents. In this work, organically modified montmorillonite (MMT) was introduced as a second filler for improving the dispersion of CNTs in the PEEK matrix and enhancing the mechanical properties, as well as reducing the cost of the materials. The nanocomposites were fabricated through melt-mixing PEEK with CNTs/MMT hybrids, which were prepared in advance by mixing CNTs with MMT in water. The introduction of MMT improved the dispersion stability of CNTs, as characterized by sedimentation and zeta potential. The CNTs/MMT hybrids were maintained in PEEK nanocomposites as demonstrated by the transmission electron microscope. The mechanical and thermomechanical measurements revealed that CNTs together with MMT had a strong reinforcement effect on the PEEK matrix, especially at high temperature, although it had a negative effect on the toughness. A maximum increase of 48.1% was achieved in storage modulus of PEEK nanocomposites with 0.5 wt% CNTs and 2 wt% MMT at 240 °C, compared to that of neat PEEK. The differential scanning calorimetry results revealed that CNTs accelerated the crystallization of the PEEK matrix while a further addition of MMT played an opposite role. The nucleation activity of the fillers was also evaluated by the Dobreva method.
Preparation and Characterization of Poly(δ-Valerolactone)/TiO2 Nanohybrid Material with Pores Interconnected for Potential Use in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Saeed Waseem Sharaf , Al-Odayni Abdel-Basit , Alrahlah Ali , Alghamdi Abdulaziz Ali , Aouak Taieb
Published: February 2019

Titanium dioxide/poly(δ-valerolactone) (TiO2/Pδ-VL) nanohybrid material containing interconnected pores with sizes in the range 80–150 μm were prepared by the solvent casting and polymer melting routes, and the dispersion of the TiO2 nanofiller in the Pδ-VL matrix and its adhesion were characterized by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. A significant depression in the glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) values were revealed for the polymer nanocomposites prepared by the solvent casting technique. For the potential application of the prepared materials in the biomedical domain, complementary analyses were performed to examine the dynamic mechanical properties, and cell adhesion (using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay), and the results obtained for the samples prepared by the two methods were compared. Interconnected pores were successively produced in the new material by employing naphthalene microparticles as a porogen for the first time, and the results obtained were very promising.
Aging Characteristics of Bitumen from Different Bituminous Pavement Structures in Service
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Guo Haoyan , Yang Bo , Chang Xingwen , Wan Chenguang , Wang Zhenjun
Published: February 2019

The aging of bitumen seriously affects the service life of bituminous pavements. At present, there are many related researches on bitumen aging, but most of them focus on aging endured in indoor surroundings and conditions. Therefore, the conclusions obtained cannot reflect the actual aging changes of bitumen in bituminous pavements in service. In order to study the comprehensive aging process and mechanism of bitumen under the influence of service, we studied bridge deck, traffic lane, and ramp with bituminous pavement structures in service. The bitumen samples obtained from the core samples in different bituminous pavement structures were characterized by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and fluorescence microscope (FM). The aging degree of different bitumen was analyzed, and conclusions were drawn on changes to bitumen aging from different pavement structures. The results showed that the aging degree of bitumen from the upper layer was the most serious, the aging degree of bitumen at the middle layer was weaker than that of bitumen from the upper layer, and the aging degree of bitumen from the bottom layer was the weakest for the different bituminous pavement structures. The aging of bitumen mainly occurred due to oxygen absorption. After aging, viscoelastic components of bitumen changed, and bitumen became harder. The macromolecule of bitumen could be divided into small molecules, and the small molecular weight of bitumen became large. The styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modifier in the modified bitumen became granular after aging, and it appeared as a single phase in bitumen. The aging changes characterized by different analytical methods showed that the aging degree of bitumen from different layers of bituminous pavement structures in service was different. Effective measures should therefore be taken in time to decrease further aging of bitumen from the upper layer of bituminous pavements due to its inevitable early aging in service.
Preparation and Characterization of Nanostructured Hollow MgO Spheres
Authors: Han Jishuo , Li Guohua , Yuan Lin
Published: February 2019

Nanostructured hollow MgO microspheres were prepared by the template method. First, D-Anhydrous glucose was polymerized by the hydrothermal method to form a template. Second, a colorless solution was obtained by mixing magnesite with hydrochloric acid in a 1:2 proportion and heating in an 80 °C water bath for 2 h. Finally, the template from the first step was placed in the colorless solution, and the resulting precipitate was calcined at 550 °C for 2 h. The phase composition and microstructure of the calcined samples were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD results indicated that the main crystal is periclase. The SEM results indicates that the template carbon microsphere surface is smooth, and the its size is uniform and concentrated in the range of 100–200 nm. The diameters of the samples range from 60 to 90 nm, which is smaller than the size of the carbon microsphere. The TEM results indicates that the sample is hollow with a shell thickness of about 6–10 nm. The specific surface area of the calcined hollow sphere is 59.5 m²·g−1.
The First Eigenvalue Estimates of Warped Product Pseudo-Slant Submanifolds
Authors: Ali Rifaqat , Alkhaldi Ali H. , Ali Akram , Othman Wan Ainun Mior
Published: February 2019

The aim of this paper is to construct a sharp general inequality for warped product pseudo-slant submanifold of the type M = M ⊥ × f M θ , in a nearly cosymplectic manifold, in terms of the warping function and the symmetric bilinear form h which is known as the second fundamental form. The equality cases are also discussed. As its application, we establish a bound for the first non-zero eigenvalue of the warping function whose base manifold is compact.
Certain Hermite–Hadamard Inequalities for Logarithmically Convex Functions with Applications
Authors: Jain Shilpi , Mehrez Khaled , Baleanu Dumitru , Agarwal Praveen
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we discuss various estimates to the right-hand (resp. left-hand) side of the Hermite–Hadamard inequality for functions whose absolute values of the second (resp. first) derivatives to positive real powers are log-convex. As an application, we derive certain inequalities involving the q-digamma and q-polygamma functions, respectively. As a consequence, new inequalities for the q-analogue of the harmonic numbers in terms of the q-polygamma functions are derived. Moreover, several inequalities for special means are also considered.
Immunostimulatory Phosphatidylmonogalactosyldiacylglycerols (PGDG) from the Marine Diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii: Inspiration for a Novel Synthetic Toll-Like Receptor 4 Agonist
Authors: Manzo Emiliano , Gallo Carmela , Sartorius Rossella , Nuzzo Genoveffa , Sardo Angela , De Berardinis Piergiuseppe , Fontana Angelo , Cutignano Adele
Published: February 2019

An unprecedented phosphatidylmonogalactosyldiacylglycerol pool (PGDG, 1) rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids was isolated from the marine diatoms Thalassiosira weissflogii. Here we report for the first time the NMR characterization of this rare lipid from marine organisms along with a synthetic strategy for the preparation of a PGDG analog (2). PGDG 1 exhibited immunostimulatory activity in human dendritic cells (DCs) and the synthetic PGDG 2 was prepared to explore its mechanism of action. A Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) agonistic activity was evidenced in human and murine DCs underlying the antigen-specific T-cell activation of this class of molecules.
Biomolecular Composition and Revenue Explained by Interactions between Extrinsic Factors and Endogenous Rhythms of Saccharina latissima
Authors: Zhang Xueqian , Thomsen Marianne
Published: February 2019

This review provides a systematic overview of the spatial and temporal variations in the content of biomolecular constituents of Saccharina latissima on the basis of 34 currently available scientific studies containing primary measurements. We demonstrate the potential revenue of seaweed production and biorefinery systems by compiling a product portfolio of high-value extract products. An investigation into the endogenous rhythms and extrinsic factors that impact the biomolecular composition of S. latissima is presented, and key performance factors for optimizing seaweed production are identified. Besides the provisioning ecosystem service, we highlight the contribution of green-engineered seaweed production systems to the mitigation of the ongoing and historical anthropogenic disturbances of the climate balance and nutrient flows. We conclude that there are risks of mismanagement, and we stress the importance and necessity of creating an adaptive ecosystem-based management framework within a triple-helix partnership for balancing the utilization of ecosystem services and long-term resilience of aquatic environment.
5-O-Acetyl-Renieramycin T from Blue Sponge Xestospongia sp. Induces Lung Cancer Stem Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Chantarawong Wipa , Chamni Supakarn , Suwanborirux Khanit , Saito Naoki , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: February 2019

Lung cancer is one of the most significant cancers as it accounts for almost 1 in 5 cancer deaths worldwide, with an increasing incident rate. Management of the cancer has been shown to frequently fail due to the ability of the cancer cells to resist therapy as well as metastasis. Recent evidence has suggested that the poor response to the current treatment drugs and the ability to undergo metastasis are driven by cancer stem cells (CSCs) within the tumor. The discovery of novel compounds able to suppress CSCs and sensitize the chemotherapeutic response could be beneficial to the improvement of clinical outcomes. Herein, we report for the first time that 5-O-acetyl-renieramycin T isolated from the blue sponge Xestospongia sp. mediated lung cancer cell death via the induction of p53-dependent apoptosis. Importantly, 5-O-acetyl-renieramycin T induced the death of CSCs as represented by the CSC markers CD44 and CD133, while the stem cell transcription factor Nanog was also found to be dramatically decreased in 5-O-acetyl-renieramycin T-treated cells. We also found that such a CSC suppression was due to the ability of the compound to deplete the protein kinase B (AKT) signal. Furthermore, 5-O-acetyl-renieramycin T was able to significantly sensitize cisplatin-mediated apoptosis in the lung cancer cells. Together, the present research findings indicate that this promising compound from the marine sponge is a potential candidate for anti-cancer approaches.
The Effects of High-Intensity Interval Exercise and Hypoxia on Cognition in Sedentary Young Adults
Authors: Sun Shengyan , Loprinzi Paul D. , Guan Hongwei , Zou Liye , Kong Zhaowei , Hu Yang , Shi Qingde , Nie Jinlei
Published: February 2019

Background and Objectives: Limited research has evaluated the effects of acute exercise on cognition under different conditions of inspired oxygenation. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIE) under normoxia (inspired fraction of oxygen (FIO2): 0.209) and moderate hypoxia (FIO2: 0.154) on cognitive function. Design: A single-blinded cross-over design was used to observe the main effects of exercise and oxygen level, and interaction effects on cognitive task performance. Methods: Twenty inactive adults (10 males and 10 females, 19–27 years old) performed a cognitive task (i.e., the Go/No-Go task) before and immediately after an acute bout of HIE under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. The HIE comprised 10 repetitions of 6 s high-intensity cycling against 7.5% body weight interspersed with 30 s passive recovery. Heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and rating of perceived exertion were monitored. Results: The acute bout of HIE did not affect the reaction time (p = 0.204, η2 = 0.083) but the accuracy rate decreased significantly after HIE under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.467). Moreover, moderate hypoxia had no influence either on reaction time (p = 0.782, η2 = 0.004) or response accuracy (p = 0.972, η2 < 0.001). Conclusions: These results indicate that an acute session of HIE may impair response accuracy immediately post-HIE, without sacrificing reaction time. Meanwhile moderate hypoxia was found to have no adverse effect on cognitive function in inactive young adults, at least in the present study.
Improving Shipbuilding Steel Grade Quality at Stages of Smelting, Secondary Refining, and Continuous Casting
Authors: Kovalev Pavel , Riaboshuk Sergey , Issagulov Aristotel , Kvon Svetlana , Kulikov Vitaliy
Published: February 2019

This work studied the effect of the amount of additives and the composition of refining slags on the metallurgical of steel grades of the S355G10, S420G2, and S460G2 types. The objects of study were samples of industrial melts after out-of furnace refining of steel with different amounts and nature of additives. Based on the results obtained, the recommended amounts of additives and the composition of the refining slag have been developed, which makes it possible to reduce the metal contamination with non-metallic inclusions.
Fabrication of Functionally Graded Materials Using Aluminum Alloys via Hot Extrusion
Authors: Kim Dasom , Park Kwangjae , Chang Minwoo , Joo Sungwook , Hong Sanghwui , Cho Seungchan , Kwon Hansang
Published: February 2019

In this study, we have attempted to manufacture functionally graded materials (FGMs) using aluminum alloys 3003 and 6063 via a hot extrusion process to realize multifunctionality through achieving high strength and low weight. The FGMs were fabricated using Al3003 powder and Al6063 bulk to improve the interfacial properties. Particle size analysis and X-ray fluorescence of the Al3003 powder were used to analyze the composition of general Al3003; microstructure analysis revealed improved hardness with almost no defects, such as cracks at the interface between the two materials. The experimentally determined tensile strength of the composite was observed to be higher than the theoretical value calculated using the rule of mixtures; the strengthening mechanisms considered for the calculations were grain size reduction and precipitation hardening. In particular, we attempted to predict the strengthening effect resulting from the fine grain size of the powder and grain size reduction due to the extrusion process using the Hall–Petch equation. The Kelly–Tyson equation was also used to calculate the theoretical strength in the presence of the strengthening phases. Based on these results, it was confirmed that FGMs can be successfully produced using the hot extrusion process.
Microfluidic High-Migratory Cell Collector Suppressing Artifacts Caused by Microstructures
Authors: Ishida Tadashi , Shimamoto Takuya , Kaminaga Maho , Kuchimaru Takahiro , Kizaka-Kondoh Shinae , Omata Toru
Published: February 2019

The small number of high-migratory cancer cells in a cell population make studies on high-migratory cancer cells difficult. For the development of migration assays for such cancer cells, several microfluidic devices have been developed. However, they measure migration that is influenced by microstructures and they collect not only high-migratory cells, but also surrounding cells. In order to find high-migratory cells in cell populations while suppressing artifacts and to collect these cells while minimizing damages, we developed a microfluidic high-migratory cell collector with the ability to sort cancer cells according to cellular migration and mechanical detachment. High-migratory cancer cells travel further from the starting line when all of the cells are seeded on the same starting line. The high-migratory cells are detached using a stretch of cell adhesive surface using a water-driven balloon actuator. Using this cell collector, we selected high-migratory HeLa cells that migrated about 100 μm in 12 h and collected the cells.
Extracellular Vesicles in Epstein-Barr Virus’ Life Cycle and Pathogenesis
Authors: Zhao Mengmeng , Nanbo Asuka , Sun Lichun , Lin Zhen
Published: February 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, are evolutionarily conserved phospholidpid membrane-bound entities secreted from most eukaryotic cell types. They carry bioactive cargos such as protein and nucleic acids derived from their cells of origin. Over the past 10 years, they have been attracting increased attention in many fields of life science, representing a new route for intercellular communication. In this review article, we will discuss the current knowledge of both normal and virally modified EVs in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)’s life cycle and its associated pathogenesis.
Numerical Simulation on Authigenic Barite Formation in Marine Sediments
Authors: Xu Tianfu , Shang Songhua , Tian Hailong , Bei Keqi , Cao Yuqing
Published: February 2019

Submarine cold seep and its associated authigenic minerals in sediment are meaningful to indicate the existence of underlying natural gas hydrate. The anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) is coupled with sulfate reduction (SR) and influences the dissolution and precipitation of barite. However, the forming mechanism of barite is not yet clearly understood. In order to investigate the forming process of authigenic barite and its relationship with methane leakage flux, based on the measured data of the Qiongdongnan Basin in the Northern slope of the South China Sea, we constructed a 1D model of a sedimentary column to reproduce the formation of barite using the numerical simulation method. The results show that the original equilibrium of barite was broken by the cold seep fluids and Ba2+ was carried upward to the sulfate-rich zone leading to the formation of barite front. When there is no flux of methane from the bottom of sediment, the barite front disappears. The relationship between methane leakage flux and authigenic minerals was also discussed. It can be concluded that high methane flux corresponds to a shallow barite front in the sediment, furthermore, the barite content first increases and then decreases as the methane flux increases. At the same time, an inverse relationship between the ratio of authigenic barite to calcite and methane flux was obtained.
Ore Genesis at the Jinchang Gold–Copper Deposit in Heilongjiang Province, Northeastern China: Evidence from Geology, Fluid Inclusions, and H–O–S Isotopes
Authors: Li Shunda , Zhang Xuebing , Gao Lingling
Published: February 2019

The Jinchang gold–copper deposit is located in Eastern Heilongjiang Province, Northeastern China. The orebody comprises primarily hydrothermal breccias, quartz veins, and disseminated ores within granite, diorite, and granodiorite. Three paragenetic stages are identified: early quartz–pyrite–arsenopyrite (Stage 1), quartz–pyrite–chalcopyrite (Stage 2), and late quartz–pyrite–galena–sphalerite (Stage 3). Gold was deposited during all three stages and Stage 1 was the major gold-producing stage. Copper is associated with the mineralization but has low economic value. Fluid inclusions (FIs) within the deposit are liquid-rich aqueous, vapor-rich aqueous, and daughter-mineral-bearing types. Microthermometric data for the FIs reveal decreasing homogenization temperatures (Th) and salinities of the ore-forming fluids over time. The Th for Stages 1–3 of the mineralization are 421–479, 363–408, and 296–347 °C, respectively. Stage 1 fluids in vapor-rich and daughter-mineral-bearing inclusions have salinities of 5.7–8.7 and 49.8–54.4 wt% NaCl equivalent, respectively. Stage 2 fluids in vapor-rich, liquid-rich, and daughter-mineral-bearing inclusions have salinities of 1.2–5.4, 9.5–16.0, and 43.3–48.3 wt% NaCl, respectively. Stage 3 fluids in liquid-rich and daughter-mineral-bearing inclusions have salinities of 7.9–12.6 and 38.3–42.0 wt% NaCl equivalent, respectively. The estimated trapping pressures are 160–220 bar, corresponding to an entrapment depth of 1.6–1.2 km in the paleo-water table. Oxygen and hydrogen isotope data (δ18OV-SMOW = 8.6‰ to 11.4‰; δDV-SMOW = −92.2‰ to −72.1‰) suggest that the ore-forming fluids were derived from magmatic fluids during the early stages of mineralization and subsequently incorporated meteoric water during the late stages. The sulfide minerals have δ34SVCDT values of 0.2‰–3.5‰, suggesting that the sulfur has a magmatic origin. The Jinchang deposit is a typical gold-rich gold–copper porphyry deposit.
The Effects of Al2O3 and SiO2 on the Formation Process of Silico-Ferrite of Calcium and Aluminum (SFCA) by Solid-State Reactions
Authors: Liao Fei , Guo Xing-Min
Published: February 2019

The silico-ferrite of calcium and aluminum (SFCA) is a significant crystalline phase that bonds in high basicity sinter. Al2O3 and SiO2 play an important role in the formation of SFCA in the Fe2O3–CaO–SiO2–Al2O3 system, but the effect mechanism of Al2O3 and SiO2 on the formation of SFCA is unclear. To investigate this effect, sintering experiments were carried out with different temperatures and different times. It was found that the reaction of Al2O3 with CaFe2O4 (CF) as an initial product was easier to form during the calcium iron aluminum oxide (CFA) than that of SiO2 with CF to form SFC. This was due to the former directly forming to CFA while the latter initially formed Ca2SiO4 (C2S) and Ca2.5Fe15.5O25, and then SFC. It was also observed that when Al2O3 and SiO2 existed simultaneously, the Al2O3 initially reacted with CF to form CFA at 1100 °C, while the SiO2 participated in the formation of SFCA at 1150 °C without the formation of SFC. Moreover, it was understood that these were different effects in that the Al2O3 promoted the transformation from the orthorhombic crystal system to the triclinic crystal system, while the SiO2 dissolved into CFA to form the SFCA phase when Al2O3 existed.
Drug Sensitivity Screening and Targeted Pathway Analysis Reveal a Multi-Driver Proliferative Mechanism and Suggest a Strategy of Combination Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Shen Jinyan , Li Li , Yang Tao , Cheng Niuliang , Sun Gongqin
Published: February 2019

Treatment of colorectal cancer mostly relies on traditional therapeutic approaches, such as surgery and chemotherapy. Limited options of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer narrowly focus on blocking cancer-generic targets VEGFR and EGFR. Identifying the oncogenic drivers, understanding their contribution to proliferation, and finding inhibitors to block such drivers are the keys to developing targeted therapy for colorectal cancer. In this study, ten colorectal cancer cell lines were screened against a panel of protein kinase inhibitors blocking key oncogenic signaling pathways. The results show that four of the 10 cell lines did not respond to any kinase inhibitors significantly, the other six were mildly inhibited by AZD-6244, BMS-754807, and/or dasatinib. Mechanistic analyses demonstrate that these inhibitors independently block the MAP kinase pathway, IR/IGF-1R/AKT pathway, and Src kinases, suggesting a multi-driver nature of proliferative signaling in these cells. Most of these cell lines were potently and synergistically inhibited by pair-wise combinations of these drugs. Furthermore, seven of the 10 cell lines were inhibited by the triple combination of AZD-6244/BMS-754807/dasatinib with IC50’s between 10 and 84 nM. These results suggest that combination targeted therapy may be an effective strategy against colorectal cancer.
Luminescent Hydroxyapatite Doped with Rare Earth Elements for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Neacsu Ionela Andreea , Stoica Alexandra Elena , Vasile Bogdan Stefan , Andronescu Ecaterina
Published: February 2019

One new, promising approach in the medical field is represented by hydroxyapatite doped with luminescent materials for biomedical luminescence imaging. The use of hydroxyapatite-based luminescent materials is an interesting area of research because of the attractive characteristics of such materials, which include biodegradability, bioactivity, biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, non-toxicity, and their non-inflammatory nature, as well their accessibility for surface adaptation. It is well known that hydroxyapatite, the predominant inorganic component of bones, serves a substantial role in tissue engineering, drug and gene delivery, and many other biomedical areas. Hydroxyapatite, to the detriment of other host matrices, has attracted substantial attention for its ability to bind to luminescent materials with high efficiency. Its capacity to integrate a large assortment of substitutions for Ca2+, PO43−, and/or OH− ions is attributed to the versatility of its apatite structure. This paper summarizes the most recently developed fluorescent materials based on hydroxyapatite, which use rare earth elements (REEs) as dopants, such as terbium (Tb3+), erbium (Er3+), europium (Eu3+), lanthanum (La3+), or dysprosium (Dy3+), that have been developed in the biomedical field.
The Effect of Olive Leaf Extract on Upper Respiratory Illness in High School Athletes: A Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Somerville Vaughan , Moore Rachel , Braakhuis Andrea
Published: February 2019

Upper respiratory illness (URI) has a major impact on both training and competition in an athletic setting. High school athletes are a sub-category who have reported higher illness rates than professional and sub-elite high school athletes of the same sport. Olive leaf extract (OLE) is an over-the-counter supplement that contains polyphenols, notably oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, that have antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may reduce URI rates. Thirty-two high school students who play sport for the elite team at their school were recruited to a randomised controlled trial and allocated to a daily placebo or OLE (extent equivalent to 20 g of olive leaf, containing 100 mg oleuropein) supplementation for nine weeks during their competitive season. Twice weekly measures of wellbeing, training load and respiratory illness (sporting upper respiratory illness (SUPPRESS) questionnaire) were recorded at trainings, meetings or games. There was no significant difference in illness incidence (odds ratio (OR): 1.02 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21–4.44)), but there was a significant 28% reduction in sick days (OR: 0.72 (95% CI 0.56–0.93) p-value = 0.02) when supplemented with OLE. The dietary intakes of the athletes were sub-optimal with regard to immune support. OLE supplementation over a season did not significantly reduce URI incidence, but did decrease duration in high school athletes, potentially aiding return to play.
Post-Stress Fructose and Glucose Ingestion Exhibit Dissociable Behavioral and Physiological Effects
Authors: Conoscenti Michael , Williams Nicole , Turcotte Lorraine , Minor Thomas , Fanselow Michael
Published: February 2019

An acute traumatic event can lead to lifelong changes in stress susceptibility and result in psychiatric disease such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We have previously shown that access to a concentrated glucose solution for 24 h beginning immediately after trauma decreased stress-related pathology in the learned helplessness model of PTSD and comorbid major depression. The current study sought to investigate the peripheral physiological effects of post-stress glucose consumption. We exposed 128 male Sprague-Dawley rats to inescapable and unpredictable 1-milliamp electric tail shocks or simple restraint in the learned helplessness procedure. Rats in each stress condition had access to a 40% glucose solution, 40% fructose solution, or water. Blood and liver tissue were extracted and processed for assay. We assessed corticosterone, corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG), glucose, and liver glycogen concentrations at various time points following stress. We found that rats given access to glucose following exposure to traumatic shock showed a transient rise in blood glucose and an increase in liver glycogen repletion compared to those that received water or fructose following exposure to electric shock. We also found that animals given glucose following shock exhibited reduced free corticosterone and increased CBG compared to their water-drinking counterparts. However, this difference was not apparent when glucose was compared to fructose. These data suggest that post-stress glucose prophylaxis is likely not working via modulation of the HPA axis, but rather may provide its benefit by mitigating the metabolic challenges of trauma exposure.
Salmon in Combination with High Glycemic Index Carbohydrates Increases Diet-Induced Thermogenesis Compared with Salmon with Low Glycemic Index Carbohydrates–An Acute Randomized Cross-Over Meal Test Study
Authors: Nielsen Lone , Nyby Signe , Klingenberg Lars , Ritz Christian , Sundekilde Ulrik , Bertram Hanne , Westerterp-Plantenga Margriet , Liaset Bjørn , Kristiansen Karsten , Madsen Lise , Raben Anne
Published: February 2019

The study investigated the acute effects of meals containing either salmon or veal in combination with carbohydrates with high or low glycemic index (GI) on diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) (primary endpoint), appetite sensations, and energy intake (EI). Twenty-five overweight men and women ingested four iso-caloric test meals: salmon with mashed potatoes (high GI) (SM), salmon with wholegrain pasta (low GI) (SP), veal with mashed potatoes (VM) and veal with wholegrain pasta (VP). Energy expenditure was measured in the fasting state and six times postprandially for 25 min with 5-min breaks between each measurement. Appetite sensations were measured every 30 min. Blood samples, from arterialized venous blood, were drawn every 20 min until an ad libitum buffet-style lunch was served 3.5 h later. DIT was 40% higher after the SM meal compared to the SP meal (p = 0.002). Prospective food consumption was lower after the SM meal compared with the VP meal (p = 0.01). There were no differences in satiety, hunger, fullness, or ad libitum EI between the test meals (all p > 0.05). In conclusion, salmon with high GI carbohydrates increased DIT compared to salmon with low GI carbohydrates. This indicates that DIT is sensitive to the GI of the carbohydrates after intake of salmon but not veal.
Sodium Levels in Packaged Foods Sold in 14 Latin American and Caribbean Countries: A Food Label Analysis
Authors: Arcand JoAnne , Blanco-Metzler Adriana , Benavides Aguilar Karla , L’Abbe Mary R. , Legetic Branka
Published: February 2019

Population-wide sodium reduction is a cost-effective approach to address the adverse health effects associated with excess sodium consumption. Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries consume excess dietary sodium. Packaged foods are a major contributor to sodium intake and a target for sodium reduction interventions. This study examined sodium levels in 12 categories of packaged foods sold in 14 LAC (n = 16,357). Mean sodium levels and percentiles were examined. Sodium levels were compared to regional sodium reduction targets. In this baseline analysis, 82% of foods met the regional target and 47% met the lower target. The greatest proportion of products meeting the regional target were uncooked pasta and noodles (98%), flavored cookies/crackers (97%), seasonings for sides/main dishes (96%), mayonnaise (94%), and cured/preserved meats (91%). A large proportion of foods met the lower target among uncooked pasta and noodles (88%), cooked pasta and noodles (88%), and meat/fish seasonings (88%). The highest the highest median sodium levels were among condiments (7778 mg/100 g), processed meats (870 mg/100 g), mayonnaise (755 mg/100 g), bread products (458 mg/100 g), cheese (643 mg/100 g), and snack foods (625 mg/100 g). These baseline data suggest that sodium reduction targets may need to be more stringent to enable effective lowering of sodium intake.
Dual Action of the PN159/KLAL/MAP Peptide: Increase of Drug Penetration across Caco-2 Intestinal Barrier Model by Modulation of Tight Junctions and Plasma Membrane Permeability
Authors: Bocsik Alexandra , Gróf Ilona , Kiss Lóránd , Ötvös Ferenc , Zsíros Ottó , Daruka Lejla , Fülöp Lívia , Vastag Monika , Kittel Ágnes , Imre Norbert , Martinek Tamás A. , Pál Csaba , Szabó-Révész Piroska , Deli Mária A.
Published: February 2019

The absorption of drugs is limited by the epithelial barriers of the gastrointestinal tract. One of the strategies to improve drug delivery is the modulation of barrier function by the targeted opening of epithelial tight junctions. In our previous study the 18-mer amphiphilic PN159 peptide was found to be an effective tight junction modulator on intestinal epithelial and blood–brain barrier models. PN159, also known as KLAL or MAP, was described to interact with biological membranes as a cell-penetrating peptide. In the present work we demonstrated that the PN159 peptide as a penetration enhancer has a dual action on intestinal epithelial cells. The peptide safely and reversibly enhanced the permeability of Caco-2 monolayers by opening the intercellular junctions. The penetration of dextran molecules with different size and four efflux pump substrate drugs was increased several folds. We identified claudin-4 and -7 junctional proteins by docking studies as potential binding partners and targets of PN159 in the opening of the paracellular pathway. In addition to the tight junction modulator action, the peptide showed cell membrane permeabilizing and antimicrobial effects. This dual action is not general for cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), since the other three CPPs tested did not show barrier opening effects.
Using Morphogenic Genes to Improve Recovery and Regeneration of Transgenic Plants
Authors: Gordon-Kamm Bill , Sardesai Nagesh , Arling Maren , Lowe Keith , Hoerster George , Betts Scott , Jones Todd
Published: February 2019

Efficient transformation of numerous important crops remains a challenge, due predominantly to our inability to stimulate growth of transgenic cells capable of producing plants. For years, this difficulty has been partially addressed by tissue culture strategies that improve regeneration either through somatic embryogenesis or meristem formation. Identification of genes involved in these developmental processes, designated here as morphogenic genes, provides useful tools in transformation research. In species from eudicots and cereals to gymnosperms, ectopic overexpression of genes involved in either embryo or meristem development has been used to stimulate growth of transgenic plants. However, many of these genes produce pleiotropic deleterious phenotypes. To mitigate this, research has been focusing on ways to take advantage of growth-stimulating morphogenic genes while later restricting or eliminating their expression in the plant. Methods of controlling ectopic overexpression include the use of transient expression, inducible promoters, tissue-specific promoters, and excision of the morphogenic genes. These methods of controlling morphogenic gene expression have been demonstrated in a variety of important crops. Here, we provide a review that highlights how ectopic overexpression of genes involved in morphogenesis has been used to improve transformation efficiencies, which is facilitating transformation of numerous recalcitrant crops. The use of morphogenic genes may help to alleviate one of the bottlenecks currently slowing progress in plant genome modification.
3D Printing with the Commercial UV-Curable Standard Blend Resin: Optimized Process Parameters towards the Fabrication of Tiny Functional Parts
Authors: Bertana Valentina , De Pasquale Giorgio , Ferrero Sergio , Scaltrito Luciano , Catania Felice , Nicosia Carmelo , Marasso Simone L. , Cocuzza Matteo , Perrucci Francesco
Published: February 2019

Stereolithography 3D printing is today recognized as an effective rapid prototyping technique in the field of polymeric materials, which represents both the strengths and the weaknesses of this technique. The strengths relate to their easy handling and the low energy required for processing, which allow for the production of structures down to the sub-micrometric scale. The weaknesses are a result of the relatively poor mechanical properties. Unfortunately, the choice of the right material is not sufficient, as the printing parameters also play a crucial role. For this reason, it is important to deepen and clarify the effect of different printing conditions on final product characteristics. In this paper, the behavior of commercial Standard Blend (ST Blend) acrylic resin printed with stereolithography (SL) apparatus is reported, investigating the influence of printing parameters on both the tensile properties of the printed parts and the build accuracy. Twenty-four samples were printed under different printing conditions, then dimensional analyses and tensile tests were performed. It was possible to find out the optimum printing setup to obtain the best result in terms of mechanical resistance and printing accuracy for this kind of resin. Finally, a micrometric spring was printed under the optimal conditions to demonstrate the possibility of printing accurate and tiny parts with the commercial and inexpensive STBlend resin.
Shear Force Fiber Spinning: Process Parameter and Polymer Solution Property Considerations
Authors: Dotivala Arzan C. , Puthuveetil Kavya P. , Tang Christina
Published: February 2019

For application of polymer nanofibers (e.g., sensors, and scaffolds to study cell behavior) it is important to control the spatial orientation of the fibers. We compare the ability to align and pattern fibers using shear force fiber spinning, i.e. contacting a drop of polymer solution with a rotating collector to mechanically draw a fiber, with electrospinning onto a rotating drum. Using polystyrene as a model system, we observe that the fiber spacing using shear force fiber spinning was more uniform than electrospinning with the rotating drum with relative standard deviations of 18% and 39%, respectively. Importantly, the approaches are complementary as the fiber spacing achieved using electrospinning with the rotating drum was ~10 microns while fiber spacing achieved using shear force fiber spinning was ~250 microns. To expand to additional polymer systems, we use polymer entanglement and capillary number. Solution properties that favor large capillary numbers (>50) prevent droplet breakup to facilitate fiber formation. Draw-down ratio was useful for determining appropriate process conditions (flow rate, rotational speed of the collector) to achieve continuous formation of fibers. These rules of thumb for considering the polymer solution properties and process parameters are expected to expand use of this platform for creating hierarchical structures of multiple fiber layers for cell scaffolds and additional applications.
Grubbs’ and Schrock’s Catalysts, Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization and Molecular Brushes—Synthesis, Characterization, Properties and Applications
Authors: Choinopoulos Ioannis
Published: February 2019

In this review, molecular brushes and other macromolecular architectures bearing a bottlebrush segment where the main chain is synthesized by ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) mediated by Mo or Ru metal complexes are considered. A brief review of metathesis and ROMP is presented in order to understand the problems and the solutions provided through the years. The synthetic strategies towards bottlebrush copolymers are demonstrated and each one discussed separately. The initiators/catalysts for the synthesis of the backbone with ROMP are discussed. Syntheses of molecular brushes are presented. The most interesting properties of the bottlebrushes are detailed. Finally, the applications studied by different groups are presented.
Ice-Binding Protein from Shewanella frigidimarinas Inhibits Ice Crystal Growth in Highly Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Delesky Elizabeth A. , Frazier Shane D. , Wallat Jaqueline D. , Bannister Kendra L. , Heveran Chelsea M. , Srubar Wil V.
Published: February 2019

The ability of a natural ice-binding protein from Shewanella frigidimarina (SfIBP) to inhibit ice crystal growth in highly alkaline solutions with increasing pH and ionic strength was investigated in this work. The purity of isolated SfIBP was first confirmed via sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and size-exclusion chromatography with an ultraviolet detector (SEC-UV). Protein stability was evaluated in the alkaline solutions using circular dichroism spectroscopy, SEC-UV, and SDS-PAGE. SfIBP ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity, a measure of ice crystal growth inhibition, was assessed using a modified splat assay. Statistical analysis of results substantiated that, despite partial denaturation and misfolding, SfIBP limited ice crystal growth in alkaline solutions (pH ≤ 12.7) with ionic strength I ≤ 0.05 mol/L, but did not exhibit IRI activity in alkaline solutions where pH ≥ 13.2 and I ≥ 0.16 mol/L. IRI activity of SfIBP in solutions with pH ≤ 12.7 and I ≤ 0.05 mol/L demonstrated up to ≈ 66% reduction in ice crystal size compared to neat solutions.
Using the Optimization Algorithm to Evaluate the Energetic Industry: A Case Study in Thailand
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Le Tien-Muoi , Nguyen Han-Khanh , Ngoc-Nguyen Hong
Published: February 2019

Thailand’s economy is developing rapidly, with energy being a significant factor in this development. This study uses a variety of models to assess the performance of Thailand’s energy industry in two different phases, the first being from 2013 to 2017 and the second from 2018 to 2020. The Malmquist model-one of data envelopment required input and output data that showed Thailand’s productivity index and the rate-of-change ratio, which is used to assess technical changes, change efficiency, and productivity changes of the 12 listed companies in energetic generation and distribution in Thailand. To calculate future indicators, the forecast data are generated by applying the Grey model (1,1) GM(1,1). Accuracy prediction is determined by the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). The results show that the magnitude of the change in efficiency during the first period is stable, and some major changes in the technical level of some companies may be observed. In the future, the performance of most companies has increased steadily, but performance has been outstanding. This research provides insights into Thailand’s energy over the past few years, and predictions of future performance may be used as a reference for more purposes.