bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Emotion Annotation Approaches for Text
Authors: Wood Ian D. , McCrae John P. , Andryushechkin Vladimir , Buitelaar Paul
Published: May 2018

While the recognition of positive/negative sentiment in text is an established task with many standard data sets and well developed methodologies, the recognition of a more nuanced affect has received less attention: there are few publicly available annotated resources and there are a number of competing emotion representation schemes with as yet no clear approach to choose between them. To address this lack, we present a series of emotion annotation studies on tweets, providing methods for comparisons between annotation methods (relative vs. absolute) and between different representation schemes. We find improved annotator agreement with a relative annotation scheme (comparisons) on a dimensional emotion model over a categorical annotation scheme on Ekman’s six basic emotions; however, when we compare inter-annotator agreement for comparisons with agreement for a rating scale annotation scheme (both with the same dimensional emotion model), we find improved inter-annotator agreement with rating scales, challenging a common belief that relative judgements are more reliable. To support these studies and as a contribution in itself, we further present a publicly available collection of 2019 tweets annotated with scores on each of four emotion dimensions: valence, arousal, dominance and surprise, following the emotion representation model identified by Fontaine et al. in 2007.
Insights into Abiotically-Generated Amino Acid Enantiomeric Excesses Found in Meteorites
Authors: Burton Aaron S. , Berger Eve L.
Published: May 2018

Biology exhibits homochirality, in that only one of two possible molecular configurations (called enantiomers) is used in both proteins and nucleic acids. The origin of this phenomenon is currently unknown, as nearly all known abiotic mechanisms for generating these compounds result in equal (racemic) mixtures of both enantiomers. However, analyses of primitive meteorites have revealed that a number of amino acids of extraterrestrial origin are present in enantiomeric excess, suggesting that there was an abiotic route to synthesize amino acids in a non-racemic manner. Here we review the amino acid contents of a range of meteorites, describe mechanisms for amino acid formation and their potential to produce amino acid enantiomeric excesses, and identify processes that could have amplified enantiomeric excesses.
A Comparison Study on Wear Behaviors of Mo and Al2O3-Mo Coatings from RT to 300 °C
Authors: Yan Jianhui , Guo Yuanjun , Wang Yi , Zhou Peng , Qiu Jingwen
Published: May 2018

Mo and Al2O3-Mo coatings are fabricated on a low-carbon steel substrate using atmospheric plasma spraying. The microstructure and mechanical properties of two as-sprayed coatings, with a particular focus on the tribological behaviors from room temperature to 300 °C, are comparatively investigated in this study. Microstructural analysis of the coatings shows that the porosity of the Al2O3-Mo coating is higher than that of Mo coating. The addition of Al2O3 particles reduces the coating–substrate adhesion strength. The Al2O3-Mo coating, in comparison to the Mo coating, shows improved mechanical properties, such as hardness and wear resistance. The friction coefficients of both coatings increase with further increases in test temperatures. The friction coefficient of the Al2O3-Mo coating, tested above 100 °C, is lower than that of the Mo coating. The wear failure mechanisms of the two coatings are delamination, brittle fracture, oxidation and adhesion wear. In addition, local plastic deformation was also found in the Mo coating.
2,4-Bis[(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imino]-3-methylpentan-3-ol
Authors: Sun Wenting , Kong Wenyu , Du Qing , Zhang Shumiao , Guo Lihua , Liu Zhe
Published: May 2018

The compound 2,4-bis[(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imino]-3-methylpentan-3-ol was synthesized with a yield of approximately 80% by the reaction of 2,4-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenylimino)pentan-3-one with trimethylaluminum, which was followed by hydrolysis with an aqueous NaOH solution. A chemoselective addition to the C=O bond occurred in this reaction. The structure was confirmed by X-ray crystallography. This new compound was also fully characterized by 1H, 13C-NMR spectroscopy and 1H-13C HSQC spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis.
(E)-3-[4-(Pent-4-en-1-yloxy)phenyl]acrylicc Acid
Authors: Egami Hiromichi , Sawairi Taira , Tamaoki Souma , Ohneda Noriyuki , Okamoto Tadashi , Odajima Hiromichi , Hamashima Yoshitaka
Published: May 2018

(E)-3-[4-(Pent-4-en-1-yloxy)phenyl]acetic acid is one of the useful components of liquid crystal materials which can be produced through Williamson ether synthesis by synthesizing 4-hydroxy-cinnamic acid and 5-bromo-1-pentene. Although Williamson ether synthesis is generally slow under conventional external heating conditions, microwave irradiation was effective for significant acceleration of the etherification. Furthermore, we demonstrated the rapid and continuous synthesis of (E)-3-[4-(pent-4-en-1-yloxy)phenyl]acetic acid, using a microwave-assisted flow reactor developed by us, in which the blockage by salt precipitation was suppressed by the continuous addition of an aqueous methanol solution after the reaction cavity.
Investigative Method for Fatigue Crack Propagation Based on a Small Time Scale
Authors: Wang Hongxun , Zhang Weifang , Zhang Jingyu , Dai Wei , Zhao Yan
Published: May 2018

In-situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) testing based on a small time scale is proposed to integrally investigate the fatigue crack growth behavior and mechanisms, which is different from the widely-used, cycle-based approach due to its small time scale and comprehensive analysis of the effects of microstructure, crack closure and applied loading on crack growth. In the proposed methodology, the behavior of fatigue crack growth at any time within a loading cycle is observed by SEM to investigate the influence of microstructure on crack growth. Images with high resolution are taken to measure the crack tip opening displacement (CTOD), and the correlation between CTOD and the stress intensity factor (SIF) K is studied. A model based on experimental data is used to predict the CTOD variation. The unstable crack growth of aluminum alloy 7050-T7451 is investigated using the proposed method. Results show that this method has great potential in fatigue crack growth mechanism research compared with the traditional cycle-based approach.
Controllable Fabrication of Fe3O4/ZnO Core–Shell Nanocomposites and Their Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Performance in the 2–18 GHz Frequency Range
Authors: Sun Xiaodong , Ma Guangyan , Lv Xuliang , Sui Mingxu , Li Huabing , Wu Fan , Wang Jijun
Published: May 2018

In this study, Fe3O4/ZnO core–shell nanocomposites were synthesized through a chemical method of coating the magnetic core (Fe3O4) with ZnO by co-precipitation of Fe3O4 with zinc acetate in a basic medium of ammonium hydroxide. The phase structure, morphology and electromagnetic parameters of the Fe3O4/ZnO core–shell nanocomposites were investigated. The results indicated that the concentration of the solvent was responsible for controlling the morphology of the composites, which further influenced their impedance matching and microwave absorption properties. Moreover, Fe3O4/ZnO nanocomposites exhibited an enhanced absorption capacity in comparison with the naked Fe3O4 nanospheres. Specifically, the minimum reflection loss value reached −50.79 dB at 4.38 GHz when the thickness was 4.5 mm. It is expected that the Fe3O4/ZnO core–shell structured nanocomposites could be a promising candidate as high-performance microwave absorbers.
Ureolytic/Non-Ureolytic Bacteria Co-Cultured Self-Healing Agent for Cementitious Materials Crack Repair
Authors: Son Hyeong , Kim Ha , Park Sol , Lee Haeng
Published: May 2018

The present study investigated the CaCO3 precipitation performance of ureolytic and non-ureolytic bacteria co-cultured as a self-healing agent for cementitious materials crack repair. Three different inoculum ratios of ureolytic Sporosarcina pasteurii and non-ureolytic Bacillus thuringiensis (10:0, 8:2, or 5:5) were used. The effect of coculturing ureolytic and non-ureolytic bacteria on microbial metabolism was investigated by measuring the rate of growth in urea-containing medium and the rate of NH4+ and CaCO3 production in urea–calcium lactate medium. The self-healing efficiency of co-cultured bacteria was examined by exposing cement mortar specimens with predefined cracks to media containing single urease-producing or co-cultured bacteria. The obtained results provide new findings, where CaCO3 precipitation is improved by co-culturing ureolytic and non-ureolytic bacteria, owing to the relatively faster growth rate of non-ureolytic bacteria. The crack filling rate correlated with the width of crack, in particular, specimens with a smaller crack width showed the faster filling effect, indicating that the crack width can be a dominant factor influencing the CaCO3 precipitation capacity of co-cultured bacteria.
Microstructural Properties of Cement Paste and Mortar Modified by Low Cost Nanoplatelets Sourced from Natural Materials
Authors: Huang Piao , Lv Liming , Liao Wei , Lu Chunhua , Xu Zhongzi
Published: May 2018

Nanomaterials have been widely used in cement-based materials. Graphene has excellent properties for improving the durability of cement-based materials. Given its high production budget, it has limited its wide potential for application in the field of engineering. Hence, it is very meaningful to obtain low cost nanoplatelets from natural materials that can replace graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) The purpose of this paper is to improve the resistance to chloride ion penetration by optimizing the pore structure of cement-based materials, and another point is to reduce investment costs. The results illustrated that low cost CaCO3 nanoplatelets (CCNPs) were successfully obtained under alkali treatment of seashell powder, and the chloride ion permeability of cement-based materials significantly decreased by 15.7% compared to that of the control samples when CCNPs were incorporated. Furthermore, the compressive strength of cement pastes at the age of 28 days increased by 37.9% than that of the plain sample. Improvement of performance of cement-based materials can be partly attributed to the refinement of the pore structure. In addition, AFM was employed to characterize the nanoplatelet thickness of CCNPs and the pore structures of the cement-based composites were analyzed by MIP, respectively. CCNPs composite cement best performance could lay the foundation for further study of the durability of cement-based materials and the application of decontaminated seashells.
Study on the Characteristics of Walnut Shell/Co-PES/Co-PA Powder Produced by Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Yu Yueqiang , Guo Yanling , Jiang Ting , Li Jian , Jiang Kaiyi , Zhang Hui , Zhuang Yu
Published: May 2018

Agricultural and forestry wastes are used as materials for selective laser sintering (SLS) to alleviate resource shortage, reduce the pollution of the environment, lower the cost of materials, and improve the accuracy of parts produced by SLS. However, the mechanical properties of wood–plastic parts are poor, and thus they cannot be applied widely. In order to improve the mechanical properties of wood–plastic parts, a new type of walnut shell polymer composite (WSPC) was prepared by a polymer mixing method and was used to produce parts via SLS. Additionally, the dimensional accuracy, morphologies, density, and mechanical properties of the WSPC parts were studied. The results showed that the addition of a small amount of copolyamide (Co-PA) powder could effectively improve the mechanical properties and decrease the density of the WSPC parts. By increasing the amount of Co-PA powder and decreasing that of copolyester (Co-PES) powder, the mechanical properties first increased, then decreased, and finally increased again; in addition, the density first decreased then increased. By increasing the preheating temperature, the mechanical properties and density of the WSPC parts were enhanced.
CMOS-Compatible Silicon Nanowire Field-Effect Transistor Biosensor: Technology Development toward Commercialization
Authors: Tran Duy , Pham Thuy , Wolfrum Bernhard , Offenhäusser Andreas , Thierry Benjamin
Published: May 2018

Owing to their two-dimensional confinements, silicon nanowires display remarkable optical, magnetic, and electronic properties. Of special interest has been the development of advanced biosensing approaches based on the field effect associated with silicon nanowires (SiNWs). Recent advancements in top-down fabrication technologies have paved the way to large scale production of high density and quality arrays of SiNW field effect transistor (FETs), a critical step towards their integration in real-life biosensing applications. A key requirement toward the fulfilment of SiNW FETs’ promises in the bioanalytical field is their efficient integration within functional devices. Aiming to provide a comprehensive roadmap for the development of SiNW FET based sensing platforms, we critically review and discuss the key design and fabrication aspects relevant to their development and integration within complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology.
Multifunctional Hierarchical Surface Structures by Femtosecond Laser Processing
Authors: Kunz Clemens , Müller Frank A. , Gräf Stephan
Published: May 2018

Hierarchical surface structures were fabricated on fused silica by using a fs-laser with a pulse duration τ = 300 fs and a wavelength λ = 512 nm. The resulting surface structures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and white light interference microscopy. The optical properties were analyzed by transmittance measurements using an integrating sphere and the wettability was evaluated by measuring the water contact angle θ. The silanization of structured fused silica surfaces with trichloro(1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl)silane allows to switch the wettability from superhydrophilic (θ = 0°) to superhydrophobic behavior with θ exceeding 150°. It was shown that the structured silica surfaces are a suitable master for negative replica casting and that the hierarchical structures can be transferred to polystyrene. The transmittance of structured fused silica surfaces decreases only slightly when compared to unstructured surfaces, which results in high transparency of the structured samples. Our findings facilitate the fabrication of transparent glass samples with tailored wettability. This might be of particular interest for applications in the fields of optics, microfluidics, and biomaterials.
On the Bounds for a Two-Dimensional Birth-Death Process with Catastrophes
Authors: Sinitcina Anna , Satin Yacov , Zeifman Alexander , Shilova Galina , Sipin Alexander , Kiseleva Ksenia , Panfilova Tatyana , Kryukova Anastasia , Gudkova Irina , Fokicheva Elena
Published: May 2018

The model of a two-dimensional birth-death process with possible catastrophes is studied. The upper bounds on the rate of convergence in some weighted norms and the corresponding perturbation bounds are obtained. In addition, we consider the detailed description of two examples with 1-periodic intensities and various types of death (service) rates. The bounds on the rate of convergence and the behavior of the corresponding mathematical expectations are obtained for each example.
A Time-Non-Homogeneous Double-Ended Queue with Failures and Repairs and Its Continuous Approximation
Authors: Di Crescenzo Antonio , Giorno Virginia , Krishna Kumar Balasubramanian , Nobile Amelia
Published: May 2018

We consider a time-non-homogeneous double-ended queue subject to catastrophes and repairs. The catastrophes occur according to a non-homogeneous Poisson process and lead the system into a state of failure. Instantaneously, the system is put under repair, such that repair time is governed by a time-varying intensity function. We analyze the transient and the asymptotic behavior of the queueing system. Moreover, we derive a heavy-traffic approximation that allows approximating the state of the systems by a time-non-homogeneous Wiener process subject to jumps to a spurious state (due to catastrophes) and random returns to the zero state (due to repairs). Special attention is devoted to the case of periodic catastrophe and repair intensity functions. The first-passage-time problem through constant levels is also treated both for the queueing model and the approximating diffusion process. Finally, the goodness of the diffusive approximating procedure is discussed.
Investigation of the Anti-Prostate Cancer Properties of Marine-Derived Compounds
Authors: Fan Meiqi , Nath Amit , Tang Yujiao , Choi Young-Jin , Debnath Trishna , Choi Eun-Ju , Kim Eun-Kyung
Published: May 2018

This review focuses on marine compounds with anti-prostate cancer properties. Marine species are unique and have great potential for the discovery of anticancer drugs. Marine sources are taxonomically diverse and include bacteria, cyanobacteria, fungi, algae, and mangroves. Marine-derived compounds, including nucleotides, amides, quinones, polyethers, and peptides are biologically active compounds isolated from marine organisms such as sponges, ascidians, gorgonians, soft corals, and bryozoans, including those mentioned above. Several compound classes such as macrolides and alkaloids include drugs with anti-cancer mechanisms, such as antioxidants, anti-angiogenics, antiproliferatives, and apoptosis-inducing drugs. Despite the diversity of marine species, most marine-derived bioactive compounds have not yet been evaluated. Our objective is to explore marine compounds to identify new treatment strategies for prostate cancer. This review discusses chemically and pharmacologically diverse marine natural compounds and their sources in the context of prostate cancer drug treatment.
Preparation, Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Acid- and Pepsin-Soluble Collagens from the Swim Bladders of Miiuy Croaker (Miichthys miiuy)
Authors: Zhao Wen-Hao , Chi Chang-Feng , Zhao Yu-Qin , Wang Bin
Published: May 2018

Collagen is one of the most useful biomaterials and widely applied in functional food and cosmetics. However, some consumers have paid close attention to the safety of mammalian collagens because of the outbreaks of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and other prion diseases. Therefore, there is a strong demand for developing alternative sources of collagen, with one promising source being from the process by-products of commercial fisheries. In this report, acid-soluble collagen (ASC-SB) and pepsin-soluble collagen (PSC-SB) from swim bladders of miiuy croaker (Miichthys miiuy) were isolated with yields of 1.33 ± 0.11% and 8.37 ± 0.24% of dry swim bladder weight. Glycine was the major amino acid present, with a content of 320.5 (ASC-SB) and 333.6 residues/1000 residues (PSC-SB). ASC-SB and PSC-SB had much lower denaturation temperatures compared to mammalian collagen, a consequence of low imino acid contents (196.7 and 199.5 residues/1000 residues for ASC-SB and PSC-SB, respectively). The data of amino acid composition, SDS-PAGE pattern, UV and FTIR spectra confirmed that ASC-SB and PSC-SB were mainly composed of type I collagen. FTIR spectra data indicated there were more hydrogen bonding and intermolecular crosslinks in ASC-SB. These collagens showed high solubility in the acidic pH ranges and low NaCl concentrations (less than 2%). The Zeta potential values of ASC-SB and PSC-SB were 6.74 and 6.85, respectively. ASC-SB and PSC-SB presented irregular, dense, sheet-like films linked by random-coiled filaments under scanning electron microscopy. In addition, ASC-SB and PSC-SB could scavenge DPPH radical, hydroxyl radical, superoxide anion radical, and ABTS radical in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, the results indicate that collagens from the swim bladders of miiuy croaker are a viable substitute for mammalian collagen, with potential functional food and cosmeceutical applications.
Manufacturing and Characterization of NiTi Alloy with Functional Properties by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Ou Shih-Fu , Peng Bou-Yue , Chen Yi-Cheng , Tsai Meng-Hsiu
Published: May 2018

In this study, an optimal selective laser melting (SLM) process for manufacturing dense NiTi alloy with pseudoelasticity and shape-memory capability was proposed. The microstructure, phase-transformation temperature, shape memory capability, and pseudoelasticity were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and bending and tensile tests. NiTi powder with a particle size > 45 μm was selected for the subsequent SLM process, because it exhibited a Ni/Ti ratio of ~1 and a lower oxygen content than powders with smaller particle sizes. A thin-walled disk (0.48 mm thick) and cuboid samples (5 mm thick) were prepared for investigating the variation in the homogeneity of the microstructure. The thin-walled SLM-NiTi sample exhibited a marginally inhomogeneous microstructure between layers, and defects existed in the previously formed side. The cuboid SLM-NiTi sample was fabricated without undesirable secondary phases, and it exhibited a 100% shape-recovery rate under 2% bending strain and completely pseudoelastic under 3% strain. Also, the SLM-NiTi exhibited lower phase-transformation temperatures and a broader phase-transformation range than the original NiTi. The phase-transformation range can be reduced by annealing.
Strengthening versus Softening of Nanotwinned Copper Depending on Prestress and Twin Spacing
Authors: Han Jing , Sun Jiapeng , Han Ying , Zhu Hua , Fang Liang
Published: May 2018

This paper addressed the prestress- and twin spacing-dependent deformation as well as the hardening-to-softening transition in nanotwinned copper (nt-Cu) using molecular dynamics simulations. The results demonstrated that the hardening-to-softening transition always occurs at any prestress with decreasing twin spacing in nt-Cu compared with its single crystal counterpart, while it occurs at specific twin spacing with decreasing prestress. The hardening-to-softening transition induced by decreasing twin spacing or prestress is due to the same mechanism, i.e., transition in the initial plasticity mechanism from the activity of partial dislocation to twinning dislocation. Moreover, the indentation hardness increases with decreasing prestress, reaching its maximum, followed by decreases at smaller values for all nt-Cu. However, the critical prestress at the maximum indentation hardness significantly depends on twin spacing. Finally, a model was developed to explain this special deformation behavior. The present results could deepen our understanding of the deformation behavior of nt-Cu and provide a new paradigm for the design of this material under complex stress state.
Acceleration Sensitivity in Bulk-Extensional Mode, Silicon-Based MEMS Oscillators
Authors: Khazaeili Beheshte , Gonzales Jonathan , Abdolvand Reza
Published: May 2018

Acceleration sensitivity in silicon bulk-extensional mode oscillators is studied in this work, and a correlation between the resonator alignment to different crystalline planes of silicon and the observed acceleration sensitivity is established. It is shown that the oscillator sensitivity to the applied vibration is significantly lower when the silicon-based lateral-extensional mode resonator is aligned to the <110> plane compared to when the same resonator is aligned to <100>. A finite element model is developed that is capable of predicting the resonance frequency variation when a distributed load (i.e., acceleration) is applied to the resonator. Using this model, the orientation-dependent nature of acceleration sensitivity is confirmed, and the effect of material nonlinearity on the acceleration sensitivity is also verified. A thin-film piezoelectric-on-substrate platform is chosen for the implementation of resonators. Approximately, one order of magnitude higher acceleration sensitivity is measured for oscillators built with a resonator aligned to the <100> plane versus those with a resonator aligned to the <110> plane (an average of ~5.66 × 10−8 (1/g) vs. ~3.66 × 10−9 (1/g), respectively, for resonators on a degenerately n-type doped silicon layer).
Assembly and Connection of Micropatterned Single Neurons for Neuronal Network Formation
Authors: Yoshida Shotaro , Kato-Negishi Midori , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: May 2018

Engineering of neuronal network geometry by micropatterning technology is a key future technology for creating artificial brains on a chip. However, engineering of network geometry at the single-cell-level with functional morphology (axon/dendrite) and connectivity (synapses) is still challenging. Here, we describe a method for controlling the axon and dendrite morphology of single primary-cultured neurons and assembling a neural circuit using mobile microplates. The microplates enabled morphological control of neurons by their shapes and bringing their ends into contact caused the formation of physical connections. Functional synapse formation at the connection was indicated by immunostaining of synapse-related proteins and intracellular Ca2+ imaging of neural activity. We believe that the method will be useful in engineering neural circuits with selected neurons and defined morphology.
The Carbonation of Wollastonite: A Model Reaction to Test Natural and Biomimetic Catalysts for Enhanced CO2 Sequestration
Authors: Di Lorenzo Fulvio , Ruiz-Agudo Cristina , Ibañez-Velasco Aurelia , Gil-San Millán Rodrigo , Navarro Jorge , Ruiz-Agudo Encarnacion , Rodriguez-Navarro Carlos
Published: May 2018

One of the most promising strategies for the safe and permanent disposal of anthropogenic CO2 is its conversion into carbonate minerals via the carbonation of calcium and magnesium silicates. However, the mechanism of such a reaction is not well constrained, and its slow kinetics is a handicap for the implementation of silicate mineral carbonation as an effective method for CO2 capture and storage (CCS). Here, we studied the different steps of wollastonite (CaSiO3) carbonation (silicate dissolution → carbonate precipitation) as a model CCS system for the screening of natural and biomimetic catalysts for this reaction. Tested catalysts included carbonic anhydrase (CA), a natural enzyme that catalyzes the reversible hydration of CO2(aq), and biomimetic metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Our results show that dissolution is the rate-limiting step for wollastonite carbonation. The overall reaction progresses anisotropically along different [hkl] directions via a pseudomorphic interface-coupled dissolution–precipitation mechanism, leading to partial passivation via secondary surface precipitation of amorphous silica and calcite, which in both cases is anisotropic (i.e., (hkl)-specific). CA accelerates the final carbonate precipitation step but hinders the overall carbonation of wollastonite. Remarkably, one of the tested Zr-based MOFs accelerates the dissolution of the silicate. The use of MOFs for enhanced silicate dissolution alone or in combination with other natural or biomimetic catalysts for accelerated carbonation could represent a potentially effective strategy for enhanced mineral CCS.
Detecting Differential Transcription Factor Activity from ATAC-Seq Data
Authors: Tripodi Ignacio J. , Allen Mary A. , Dowell Robin D.
Published: May 2018

Transcription factors are managers of the cellular factory, and key components to many diseases. Many non-coding single nucleotide polymorphisms affect transcription factors, either by directly altering the protein or its functional activity at individual binding sites. Here we first briefly summarize high-throughput approaches to studying transcription factor activity. We then demonstrate, using published chromatin accessibility data (specifically ATAC-seq), that the genome-wide profile of TF recognition motifs relative to regions of open chromatin can determine the key transcription factor altered by a perturbation. Our method of determining which TFs are altered by a perturbation is simple, is quick to implement, and can be used when biological samples are limited. In the future, we envision that this method could be applied to determine which TFs show altered activity in response to a wide variety of drugs and diseases.
Preparation of Magnetic Polymers for the Elimination of 3-Isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine from Wine
Authors: Liang Chen , Jeffery David W. , Taylor Dennis K.
Published: May 2018

3-Isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine (IBMP), the most prevalent grape-derived methoxypyrazine, can contribute green bell pepper, vegetative and herbaceous aromas and flavours to wines. At elevated concentrations, this potent odorant may mask desirable fruity and floral aromas in wine and may be considered as a fault. A new remediation method for wines with elevated IBMP levels has been trialled using magnetic polymers, prepared in the same way as ordinary polymers but with the incorporation of iron oxide nanoparticles as magnetic substrates. Characterisation by Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed no difference between thermally synthesised and microwave synthesised polymers. Magnetic polymers were found to have removed over 40% of the IBMP present in spiked model wine and white wine within ten minutes. The addition of magnetic nanoparticles and microwave-induced polymerisation did not affect the adsorption properties of the polymer in model wine and the polymer could be regenerated at least five times. Both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were found to fit the data for both types of polymer. However, attempts to produce imprinted polymers were not achieved, as they were found not to be differentiated from non-imprinted counterparts via adsorption tests.
Antioxidant Structure–Activity Relationship Analysis of Five Dihydrochalcones
Authors: Li Xican , Chen Ban , Xie Hong , He Yuhua , Zhong Dewei , Chen Dongfeng
Published: May 2018

The study determined the comparative antioxidant capacities of five similar dihydrochalcones: phloretin, phloridzin, trilobatin, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, and naringin dihydrochalcone. In the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, the antioxidant activities of pairs of dihydrochalcones had the following relationship: phloretin > phloridzin, phloretin > trilobatin, trilobatin > phloridzin, trilobatin > naringin dihydrochalcone, and neohesperidin dihydrochalcone > naringin dihydrochalcone. Similar relative antioxidant levels were also obtained from 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazl radical (DPPH•)-scavenging, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+)-scavenging, and superoxide radical (•O2−)-scavenging assays. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC−ESI−Q−TOF−MS/MS) analysis for the reaction products with DPPH•, phloretin, phloridzin, and trilobatin were found to yield both dihydrochalcone-DPPH adduct and dihydrochalcone-dihydrochalcone dimer, whereas naringin dihydrochalcone gave a naringin dihydrochalcone-DPPH adduct, and neohesperidin dihydrochalcone gave a dimer. In conclusion, the five dihydrochalcones may undergo redox-based reactions (especially electron transfer (ET) and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT)), as well as radical adduct formation, to exert their antioxidant action. Methoxylation at the ortho-OH enhances the ET and HAT potential possibly via p-π conjugation, whereas the glycosylation of the –OH group not only reduces the ET and HAT potential but also hinders the ability of radical adduct formation. The 2′,6′-di-OH moiety in dihydrochalcone possesses higher ET and HAT activities than the 2′,4′-di-OH moiety because of its resonance with the adjacent keto group.
Melatonin and Expression of Tryptophan Decarboxylase Gene (TDC) in Herbaceous Peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) Flowers
Authors: Zhao Daqiu , Wang Rong , Liu Ding , Wu Yanqing , Sun Jing , Tao Jun
Published: May 2018

Melatonin is a bioactive, edible ingredient that promotes human health and exists widely in plants, but little is known about its biosynthetic routes and underlying molecular mechanisms in the herbaceous peony. In this contribution, we found that herbaceous peony flowers are rich in melatonin that is found in the greatest quantities in the white series, followed by the ink series, the red series and then the pink series. On this basis, the melatonin content fluctuates during flower development and peaks during the bloom stage. Moreover, it is apparent that sun exposure and blue light induce melatonin production whereas green light restrains it during a 24-h light/dark cycle of melatonin content, as there were ‘dual peaks’ at 2 p.m. and 2 a.m. Additionally, the corresponding expression pattern of the herbaceous peony tryptophan decarboxylase gene (TDC) was positively related with melatonin production. These results suggest that color series, development stage and light play an important role in melatonin accumulation, and that TDC is a rate-limiting gene in melatonin biosynthesis.
Effectiveness and Safety of Dietetic Supplementation of a New Nutraceutical on Lipid Profile and Serum Inflammation Biomarkers in Hypercholesterolemic Patients
Authors: Riccioni Graziano , Gammone Maria , Currenti Walter , D’Orazio Nicolantonio
Published: May 2018

Background: To assess the effectiveness and safety of a new nutraceutical (NC) on lipid profile, inflammation biomarkers and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) serum levels in hypercholesterolemic patients. Methods: 40 patients underwent hypolipemic treatment with NC. Initial and final (after 12 weeks) screening included medical history, physical examination, and measurement of serum lipid profile (total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides), hepatic (GOT, GPT, γGT), and renal (serum creatinine and urea) functions, CPK level and many inflammation biomarkers (hs-CRP and fibrinogen). At the screening visit, all patients were instructed to follow a normocaloric and hypolipidic diet during the study period. Results: The treatment with supplementation of NC demonstrated a significant reduction of serum total cholesterol (224 ± 11.2 mg/dL vs. 178 ± 10.7; p < 0.001), LDL-cholesterol (141 ± 10.6 vs. 116 + 10.1; p < 0.001), triglycerides (183 ± 13 vs. 159 ± 11.5; p < 0.01), serum inflammatory biomarkers as hs-CRP (2.24 ± 0.83 vs. 1.76 ± 0.61 mg/dL; p < 0.01), fibrinogen (315 ± 43 vs. 199 ± 41 mg/dL; p < 0.01) and a significantly increase of HDL-cholesterol (44 ± 7 vs. 53 ± 7 mg/dL; p < 0.01). Hepatic and renal function and serum CPK were normal. No adverse events was reported. Conclusions: The treatment with NC has demonstrated a significant reduction of LDL-cholesterol (−17.73%), total cholesterol (−20.53%) and triglycerides (−13.1%), with a significant increase of HDL-cholesterol values (+20.45%). The improvement of lipid profile was associated with a significant reduction of serum inflammation biomarkers as hs-PCR (−27%) and fibrinogen (−36.8%) with good tolerability profile.
Behind the 3D Scene: A GIS Approach for Managing the Chronological Information of Historic Buildings
Authors: Saygi Gamze , Agugiaro Giorgio , Hamamcioglu-Turan Mine
Published: May 2018

Historic buildings are representations of cultural systems throughout time. Thus, it is important to shed light on any given historic building’s chronological information by means of restitution, that is, the descriptions of different (re)compositions of a building for different historical states. However, the representation of information beyond the geometric, spatial, and physical characteristics of a historic building carries a crucial importance in the holistic understanding of historical changes. This requirement consists of representation, archival, assessment, and management aspects. Nevertheless, covering all these aspects is still quite challenging. Thus, three-dimensional (3D) visualization in digital platforms is considered, which indeed seems to be the most desirable way today. This article proposes a methodology through adopting an approach based on the Geographical Information System (GIS) and further develops a digital “container” as a 3D digital model for the archiving of a building’s chronological information. This does not only cover the geometric and spatial aspects, but also the historical resources and their reliability. The paper concludes that the developed prototype may lessen the future investigation effort of heritage specialists by making the chronological information of a historical building more integrated and coherent, through increased readability, accessibility, and visibility. This, in turn, supports the planning of restoration projects, as well as provides a static and comprehensive archive.
ZnO/CuO/M (M = Ag, Au) Hierarchical Nanostructure by Successive Photoreduction Process for Solar Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Kwon Jinhyeong , Cho Hyunmin , Jung Jinwook , Lee Habeom , Hong Sukjoon , Yeo Junyeob , Han Seungyong , Ko Seung Hwan
Published: May 2018

To date, solar energy generation devices have been widely studied to meet a clean and sustainable energy source. Among them, water splitting photoelectrochemical cell is regarded as a promising energy generation way for splitting water molecules and generating hydrogen by sunlight. While many nanostructured metal oxides are considered as a candidate, most of them have an improper bandgap structure lowering energy transition efficiency. Herein, we introduce a novel wet-based, successive photoreduction process that can improve charge transfer efficiency by surface plasmon effect for a solar-driven water splitting device. The proposed process enables to fabricate ZnO/CuO/Ag or ZnO/CuO/Au hierarchical nanostructure, having an enhanced electrical, optical, photoelectrochemical property. The fabricated hierarchical nanostructures are demonstrated as a photocathode in the photoelectrochemical cell and characterized by using various analytic tools.
Borylation of α,β-Unsaturated Acceptors by Chitosan Composite Film Supported Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Wen Wu , Han Biao , Yan Feng , Ding Liang , Li Bojie , Wang Liansheng , Zhu Lei
Published: May 2018

We describe here the preparation of copper nanoparticles stabilized on a chitosan/poly (vinyl alcohol) composite film. This material could catalyze the borylation of α,β-unsaturated acceptors in aqueous media under mild conditions. The corresponding organoboron compounds as well as their converted β-hydroxyl products were all obtained in good to excellent yields. It is noteworthy that this catalyst of copper nanoparticles can be easily recycled eight times and remained catalytically reactive. This newly developed methodology provides an efficient and sustainable pathway for the synthesis of organoboron compounds and application of copper nanoparticles.
Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Specific Vegetable Types: A Narrative Review
Authors: Blekkenhorst Lauren C. , Sim Marc , Bondonno Catherine P. , Bondonno Nicola P. , Ward Natalie C. , Prince Richard L. , Devine Amanda , Lewis Joshua R. , Hodgson Jonathan M.
Published: May 2018

Adequate vegetable consumption is one of the cornerstones of a healthy diet. The recommendation to increase vegetable intake is part of most dietary guidelines. Despite widespread and long-running public health messages to increase vegetable intake, similar to other countries worldwide, less than 1 in 10 adult Australians manage to meet target advice. Dietary guidelines are predominantly based on studies linking diets high in vegetables with lower risk of chronic diseases. Identifying vegetables with the strongest health benefits and incorporating these into dietary recommendations may enhance public health initiatives around vegetable intake. These enhanced public health initiatives would be targeted at reducing the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Specific vegetable types contain high levels of particular nutrients and phytochemicals linked with cardiovascular health benefits. However, it is not clear if increasing intake of these specific vegetable types will result in larger benefits on risk of chronic diseases. This review presents an overview of the evidence for the relationships of specific types of vegetables, including leafy green, cruciferous, allium, yellow-orange-red and legumes, with subclinical and clinical CVD outcomes in observational epidemiological studies.
Kidney Response to the Spectrum of Diet-Induced Acid Stress
Authors: Goraya Nimrit , Wesson Donald E.
Published: May 2018

Chronic ingestion of the acid (H+)-producing diets that are typical of developed societies appears to pose a long-term threat to kidney health. Mechanisms employed by kidneys to excrete this high dietary H+ load appear to cause long-term kidney injury when deployed over many years. In addition, cumulative urine H+ excretion is less than the cumulative increment in dietary H+, consistent with H+ retention. This H+ retention associated with the described high dietary H+ worsens as the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) declines which further exacerbates kidney injury. Modest H+ retention does not measurably change plasma acid–base parameters but, nevertheless, causes kidney injury and might contribute to progressive nephropathy. Current clinical methods do not detect H+ retention in its early stages but the condition manifests as metabolic acidosis as it worsens, with progressive decline of the glomerular filtration rate. We discuss this spectrum of H+ injury, which we characterize as “H+ stress”, and the emerging evidence that high dietary H+ constitutes a threat to long-term kidney health.
Current Evidence about Nutrition Support in Cardiac Surgery Patients—What Do We Know?
Authors: Hill Aileen , Nesterova Ekaterina , Lomivorotov Vladimir , Efremov Sergey , Goetzenich Andreas , Benstoem Carina , Zamyatin Mikhail , Chourdakis Michael , Heyland Daren , Stoppe Christian
Published: May 2018

Nutrition support is increasingly recognized as a clinically relevant aspect of the intensive care treatment of cardiac surgery patients. However, evidence from adequate large-scale studies evaluating its clinical significance for patients’ mid- to long-term outcome remains sparse. Considering nutrition support as a key component in the perioperative treatment of these critically ill patients led us to review and discuss our understanding of the metabolic response to the inflammatory burst induced by cardiac surgery. In addition, we discuss how to identify patients who may benefit from nutrition therapy, when to start nutritional interventions, present evidence about the use of enteral and parenteral nutrition and the potential role of pharmaconutrition in cardiac surgery patients. Although the clinical setting of cardiac surgery provides advantages due to its scheduled insult and predictable inflammatory response, researchers and clinicians face lack of evidence and several limitations in the clinical routine, which are critically considered and discussed in this paper.
Dietary Fibre Intake in Australia. Paper I: Associations with Demographic, Socio-Economic, and Anthropometric Factors
Authors: Fayet-Moore Flavia , Cassettari Tim , Tuck Kate , McConnell Andrew , Petocz Peter
Published: May 2018

Dietary fibre is important for regular laxation and reduces chronic disease risk. The National Health and Medical Research Council outlines daily fibre intake targets, yet the proportion of the population that meets these targets is unknown. Using the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey, we profiled fibre intake among Australian children and adults. Data from one-day dietary recalls were analysed (n = 12,153, ≥2 years) as well as demographic and anthropometric factors. The median fibre intake was 18.2 g (interquartile range [IQR] 13.2–25.0) in children and 20.7 g (IQR 14.3–28.7) in adults. We found that 42.3% (95% CI 40.5–44.1%) of children and 28.2% (95% CI 27.3–29.1%) of adults met the Adequate Intake (AI), and less than 20% of adults met the Suggested Dietary Target (SDT) to reduce the risk of chronic disease. Older children (aged 14–18 years), girls, young adults (19–30 years), males, and those of lower socio-economic status were less likely to meet the AI (p < 0.001). Those with a higher energy intake were more likely to meet the AI. Anthropometric measures were not associated with fibre intake or the likelihood of meeting the AI. Fibre is a nutrient of concern in Australian diets, with most children and adults falling short of recommendations. Adolescents, girls, young adults, men, and those of lower socio-economic status were less likely to meet the recommendations and may benefit most from public health interventions.
Supporting Mothers of Very Preterm Infants and Breast Milk Production: A Review of the Role of Galactogogues
Authors: Asztalos Elizabeth V.
Published: May 2018

Human milk, either mother’s own milk or donor human milk, is recommended as the primary source of nutrition for very preterm infants. Initiatives should be in place in neonatal units to provide support to the mother as she strives to initiate and maintain a supply of breast milk for her infant. The use of galactogogues are considered when these initiatives alone may not be successful in supporting mothers in this endeavor. Although there are non-pharmacologic compounds, this review will focus on the pharmacologic galactogogues currently available and the literature related to their use in mothers of very preterm infants.
Maternal Anemia and Low Birth Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Figueiredo Ana C. M. G. , Gomes-Filho Isaac S. , Silva Roberta B. , Pereira Priscilla P. S. , Mata Fabiana A. F. Da , Lyrio Amanda O. , Souza Elivan S. , Cruz Simone S. , Pereira Mauricio G.
Published: May 2018

Objective: To systematically analyze the relationship between maternal anemia and low birth weight. Methods: A search of studies was conducted in the main databases (Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Lilacs), the gray literature, and the reference lists of selected articles. Cohort and case-control studies that met the eligibility criteria were included in the review. There was no limitation on the language or date of publication. Article selection and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. Meta-analyses with random effects, subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were performed. Publication bias was measured using Egger regression and visual funnel plot inspection. Results: A total of 7243 articles were found, of which 71 comprised the systematic review and 68 were included in the meta-analyses. Maternal anemia was associated with low birth weight with an adjusted OR: 1.23 (95% CI: 1.06–1.43) and I2: 58%. The meta-regressions confirmed that the sample size and the methodological quality may partially explain the statistical heterogeneity. Conclusions: Maternal anemia was considered a risk factor for low birth weight.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis: A Common Extraintestinal Manifestation of Coeliac Disease
Authors: Reunala Timo , Salmi Teea T. , Hervonen Kaisa , Kaukinen Katri , Collin Pekka
Published: May 2018

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a common extraintestinal manifestation of coeliac disease presenting with itchy papules and vesicles on the elbows, knees, and buttocks. Overt gastrointestinal symptoms are rare. Diagnosis of DH is easily confirmed by immunofluorescence biopsy showing pathognomonic granular immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposits in the papillary dermis. A valid hypothesis for the immunopathogenesis of DH is that it starts from latent or manifest coeliac disease in the gut and evolves into an immune complex deposition of high avidity IgA epidermal transglutaminase (TG3) antibodies, together with the TG3 enzyme, in the papillary dermis. The mean age at DH diagnosis has increased significantly in recent decades and presently is 40–50 years. The DH to coeliac disease prevalence ratio is 1:8 in Finland and the United Kingdom (U.K.). The annual DH incidence rate, currently 2.7 per 100,000 in Finland and 0.8 per 100,000 in the U.K., is decreasing, whereas the reverse is true for coeliac disease. The long-term prognosis of DH patients on a gluten-free diet is excellent, with the mortality rate being even lower than for the general population.