bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of Fibroblast-Dependent Androgen Receptor Activation in Prostate Cancer Cells is Involved in the Mechanism of Acquired Resistance to Castration
Authors: Ishii Kenichiro , Matsuoka Izumi , Sasaki Takeshi , Nishikawa Kohei , Kanda Hideki , Imai Hiroshi , Hirokawa Yoshifumi , Iguchi Kazuhiro , Arima Kiminobu , Sugimura Yoshiki
Published: September 2019

Loss of androgen receptor (AR) dependency in prostate cancer (PCa) cells is associated with progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The tumor stroma is enriched in fibroblasts that secrete AR-activating factors. To investigate the roles of fibroblasts in AR activation under androgen deprivation, we used three sublines of androgen-sensitive LNCaP cells (E9 and F10 cells: low androgen sensitivity; and AIDL cells: androgen insensitivity) and original fibroblasts derived from patients with PCa. We performed in vivo experiments using three sublines of LNCaP cells and original fibroblasts to form homotypic tumors. The volume of tumors derived from E9 cells plus fibroblasts was reduced following androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), whereas that of F10 or AIDL cells plus fibroblasts was increased even after ADT. In tumors derived from E9 cells plus fibroblasts, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) decreased rapidly after ADT, but was still detectable. In contrast, serum PSA was increased even in F10 cells inoculated alone. In indirect cocultures with fibroblasts, PSA production was increased in E9 cells. Epidermal growth factor treatment stimulated Akt and p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation in E9 cells. Notably, AR splice variant 7 was detected in F10 cells. Overall, we found that fibroblast-secreted AR-activating factors modulated AR signaling in E9 cells after ADT and loss of fibroblast-dependent AR activation in F10 cells may be responsible for CRPC progression.
Experimental Study on the Distribution of Wave-Induced Excess Pore Pressure in a Sandy Seabed around a Mat Foundation
Authors: Yuan Qingyun , Liao Chencong , Zhou Xianglian
Published: September 2019

Mat foundations are widely used in jack-up offshore platforms to support and transfer loads. Regarding mat foundations working on the seabed, the excess wave-induced pore pressure is critical to seabed stability, which may finally cause structural failure. Therefore, it is important to investigate the distribution of the excess pore pressure in the seabed around the mat foundation. In this study, experiments were performed to study the excess pore pressure distribution around a mat foundation in scale considering the true load state by recording wave profiles and pore pressures inside a sandy seabed. To guarantee the reliability of experiments, a numerical study was conducted and compared with the experimental results. Experimental results indicate that with the existence of the mat foundation, the excess pore pressure is higher at the region, the range of which is the width of the model mat (Wm) before the structure. The maximum pore pressure appears at 0.55 Wm in front of the center of the mat foundation. In addition, the current significantly increases the range of high pore pressure area and the amplitude of the excess pore pressure. As the mat orientation changes, the position of the maximum pore pressure changes from the front to the edge of the mat.
Effect of Multi-Source Ultrasonic on Segregation of Cu Elements in Large Al–Cu Alloy Cast Ingot
Authors: Peng Hao , Li Ruiqing , Li Xiaoqian , Ding Shan , Chang Mengjun , Liao Liqing , Zhang Yun , Chen Pinghu
Published: September 2019

The structure and composition of large-scale Al–Cu alloy ingots are inhomogeneous, and the segregation of (especially) elemental Cu negatively affects the uniformity and stability of the subsequent components. In this work, four ultrasonic generators were used to manipulate solidification/microstructures of cylindrical Al–Cu ingots (1250 mm in diameter; 3500 mm in length). The influence of ultrasonic configuration on both solidification microstructures and solute macrosegregation was investigated by changing the position parameters of generators for a fixed power. The results revealed that when the ultrasound is applied close to the center (I) from the 1/2 radius (II), the grain structure of the center undergoes significant refinement, degree of positive segregation in the center can be reduced, segregation index decreased from 0.2 to 0.15, and range of positive segregation in the center decreased from 200 to 150 mm. The segregation of elemental Cu was weakened by the combined effects of the ultrasound on the flow, heat transfer, and grain movement.
Effect of Water on the Dynamic Tensile Mechanical Properties of Calcium Silicate Hydrate: Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Zhou Jikai , Liang Yuanzhi
Published: September 2019

To study the effect of water on the dynamic mechanical properties of calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) at the atomic scale, the molecular dynamics simulations were performed in uniaxial tension with different strain rates for C–S–H with a degree of saturation from 0% to 100%. Our calculations demonstrate that the dynamic tensile mechanical properties of C–S–H decrease with increasing water content and increase with increasing strain rates. With an increase in the degree of saturation, the strain rate sensitivity of C–S–H tends to increase. According to Morse potential function, the tensile stress-strain relationship curves of C–S–H are decomposed and fitted, and the dynamic tensile constitutive relationship of C–S–H considering the effect of water content is proposed. This reveals the strain rate effect of the cementitious materials with different water content from molecular insights, and the dynamic constitutive relationship obtained in this paper is necessary to the modelling of cementitious materials at the meso-scale.
Comparative Analysis of the Corrosion Resistance of Titanium Alloys Intended to Come into Direct or Prolonged Contact with Live Tissues
Authors: Ionescu Florina , Reclaru Lucien , Ardelean Lavinia Cosmina , Blatter Andreas
Published: September 2019

The evaluation of the biological safety and degradation of materials is quite important for risk assessment in various biomedical applications. In this study, two procedures were followed to characterize the corrosion resistance of different Ti-based alloys. The first one consisted of performing specific electrochemical tests (open circuit potential, linear resistance polarization, Tafel plots, potentiodynamic polarization) in order to highlight their behavior to the general and localized corrosion. The static and dynamic fatigue cycles combined with crevice corrosion conducted on a new prototype have completed the study. The second procedure followed was a cations extraction investigation (by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) in order to verify the ionic permeability of the oxides layers formed on the surfaces. Optical and scanning electron microscopy were used for surface analysis. It was noticed that in these two electrolytes, the bulk Ti-based alloys presented an almost similar general corrosion behavior. The small differences of behavior for Ti6Al4V scaffolds were correlated to the surface oxidation and roughness (owing to the selective laser melting process). The Ti alloys presented no traces of localized corrosion at the end of the test. The fatigue cycles revealed that a strong and adhesive oxides film was formed during the static cycles (difficult to remove even during the depassivation steps). The concentration of cations released was at the detection limit, revealing very good passivation films, in adequacy with the all the other results.
Preparation of Magnetic g-C3N4/Fe3O4 Composite and Its Application in the Separation of Catechol from Water
Authors: Xu Ruilan , Peng Yong
Published: September 2019

Catechol has strong toxicity and deformity as well as carcinogenicity, and it is difficult to degrade naturally. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to develop efficient adsorbents to separate catechol from water quickly and effectively. In this work, g-C3N4/Fe3O4 magnetic nanocomposites were prepared using g-C3N4 as the matrix by chemical co-precipitation, mixing with Fe2+ and Fe3+ solutions. Then, g-C3N4/Fe3O4 was used, for the first time, as an adsorbent to investigate the removal rate of catechol under different conditions by the magnetic field separation method. The adsorption parameters of the g-C3N4/Fe3O4 nanocomposite were evaluated by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. The results showed that the g-C3N4/Fe3O4 nanocomposite presented a two-step adsorption behavior and a considerably high adsorption capacity. The removal rate of catechol reached 70% at the dosage of 50 mg, adsorption time of 30 min, and pH value of 6. Five adsorption–desorption cycles demonstrated that the g-C3N4/Fe3O4 material had good stability and reusability.
Slag Substitution as a Cementing Material in Concrete: Mechanical, Physical and Environmental Properties
Authors: Parron-Rubio María Eugenia , Perez-Garcia Francisca , Gonzalez-Herrera Antonio , Oliveira Miguel José , Rubio-Cintas Maria Dolores
Published: September 2019

A circular economy is a current tenet that must be implemented in the field of construction. That would imply the study of the possibilities of the use of waste generated, for obtaining materials the used in construction as replacements for the raw material used. One of these possibilities is the substitution of the cement by slag, which contributes to the reduction of cement consumption, decreasing CO2 emissions, while solving a waste management problem. In the present paper, different types of concrete made by cement substitution with different type of slags have been studied in order to evaluate the properties of these materials. Cement is replaced by slag from different steel mills, both blast furnace and ladle furnace slag. The percentages of slag substitution by cement are 30%, 40% and 50% by weight. Mechanical, physical and environmental properties have been evaluated. Compressive and flexural strength have been analysed as the main mechanical properties. As far as physical properties go, density and porosity tests were be reported and analysed, and from an environmental point of view, a leachate study was performed. It has been found that some kinds of slag (blast furnace slag) are very suitable as substitutes for cement, providing properties above those of the reference concrete, while other types (ladle furnace slag) could be valid for non-structural applications, contributing in both cases to a circular economy.
Reversibility of Symmetric Linear Cellular Automata with Radius r = 3
Authors: Martín del Rey A. , Casado Vara R. , Hernández Serrano D.
Published: September 2019

The aim of this work is to completely solve the reversibility problem for symmetric linear cellular automata with radius r = 3 and null boundary conditions. The main result obtained is the explicit computation of the local transition functions of the inverse cellular automata. This allows introduction of possible and interesting applications in digital image encryption.
Preliminary Study on Enzymatic-Based Cleaning of Cation-Exchange Membranes Used in Electrodialysis System in Red Wine Production
Authors: Bdiri Myriam , Bensghaier Asma , Chaabane Lobna , Kozmai Anton , Baklouti Lassaad , Larchet Christian
Published: September 2019

The use of enzymatic agents as biological solutions for cleaning ion-exchange membranes fouled by organic compounds during electrodialysis (ED) treatments in the food industry could be an interesting alternative to chemical cleanings implemented at an industrial scale. This paper is focused on testing the cleaning efficiency of three enzyme classes (β-glucanase, protease, and polyphenol oxidase) chosen for their specific actions on polysaccharides, proteins, and phenolic compounds, respectively, fouled on a homogeneous cation-exchange membrane (referred CMX-Sb) used for tartaric stabilization of red wine by ED in industry. First, enzymatic cleaning tests were performed using each enzyme solution separately with two different concentrations (0.1 and 1.0 g/L) at different incubation temperatures (30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 °C). The evolution of membrane parameters (electrical conductivity, ion-exchange capacity, and contact angle) was determined to estimate the efficiency of the membrane′s principal action as well as its side activities. Based on these tests, we determined the optimal operating conditions for optimal recovery of the studied characteristics. Then, cleaning with three successive enzyme solutions or the use of two enzymes simultaneously in an enzyme mixture were tested taking into account the optimal conditions of their enzymatic activity (concentration, temperatures, and pH). This study led to significant results, indicating effective external and internal cleaning by the studied enzymes (a recovery of at least 25% of the electrical conductivity, 14% of the ion-exchange capacity, and 12% of the contact angle), and demonstrated the presence of possible enzyme combinations for the enhancement of the global cleaning efficiency or reducing cleaning durations. These results prove, for the first time, the applicability of enzymatic cleanings to membranes, the inertia of their action towards polymer matrix to the extent that the choice of enzymes is specific to the fouling substrates.
Thermoelectric Properties of Cu2SnSe3-Based Composites Containing Melt-Spun Cu–Te
Authors: Zhao Degang , Wang Lin , Wu Di , Bo Lin
Published: September 2019

In this study, the Cu–Te alloy ribbons containing nanocrystalline structures were prepared by melt spinning (MS), and were composed of Cu2−xTe, Cu2Te, Cu3−xTe, and CuTe phases. Crystal grains on both sides of the ribbons were uniformly distributed and the grain size of the contact surface was about 400 nm. The Cu–Te powder was incorporated into the Cu2SnSe3 powder by the ball milling process and the Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 thermoelectric composite was prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). With the amount of Cu–Te powder increasing, the carrier concentration of the Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 composite increased, while the carrier mobility and electrical conductivity initially increased and then decreased. Compared to the Seebeck coefficient of the Cu2SnSe3 matrix, the Seebeck coefficient of the Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 samples increased slightly. Moreover, the Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 composites had lower thermal conductivity and lattice thermal conductivity over the whole temperature range. The lattice thermal conductivity of the 0.8 vol.% Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 composite achieved the lowest value of 0.22 W/m·K, which was 78% lower than that of the Cu2SnSe3 matrix. The maximum figure of merit of the 0.8 vol.% Cu–Te/Cu2SnSe3 composite was 0.45 at 700 K.
A Durability Prediction for the Magnesium Alloy AZ31 based on Plastic and Total Energy
Authors: Klemenc Jernej , Seruga Domen , Nagode Marko
Published: September 2019

Magnesium has a good strength-to-weight ratio. As a result, magnesium alloys are gradually becoming an integral part of lightweight designs that are especially important to the automotive and aerospace industries. The magnesium alloy AZ31 is particularly suitable for forming. Furthermore, as its cyclic response is asymmetric, the accumulated energy during loading is a convenient basis for durability predictions of a product that is made of the AZ31 alloy. In this article, we show how the inverse-power law model can be combined with a Weibull’s probability density function to describe the shape of the fatigue-life curves and their scatter. Various load histories were chosen to characterize the response of the AZ31 alloy under different cyclic loadings. Both the plastic and the total strain energy densities were calculated for all the load histories, and then, a suitable dependence in terms of energy fatigue-life curves was determined. The proposed model is appropriate for modeling the low-cycle fatigue life of the AZ31 alloy. With the application of a linear damage-accumulation rule, it is also possible to predict the fatigue life for the non-constant amplitude loading within one decade of accuracy.
Effect of Niobium Addition on the High-Temperature Oxidation Behavior of 22Cr25NiWCoCu Stainless Steel in Air
Authors: Huang Sheng-Yao , Tsai Wen-Ta , Pan Yeong-Tsuen , Kuo Jui-Chao , Chen Hsien-Wei , Lin Dong-Yih
Published: September 2019

The oxidation behavior of 22Cr25NiWCoCu stainless steel with 0–0.86 wt.% Nb addition was investigated at 900 °C in air. With an increase in Nb addition, the volume fraction and average particle size of Nb (C, N) increased, but the grain size decreased. The results of grazing incidence X-ray diffraction indicated that the steels with Nb additions promoted Cr2O3 formation. After 10–100 h of oxidation, Cr depletion occurred at the region with Nb (C, N) precipitates because of its high Cr consumption rate, leading to Fe oxide generation. Finally, after 100 h of oxidation, the outer layer of Fe2O3 and the inner layer of (Cr, Fe, Mn)3O4 were formed.
Hydrogen Diffusion Mechanism around a Crack Tip in Type 304L Austenite Stainless Steel Considering the Influence of the Volume Expansion of Strain-Induced Martensite Transformation
Authors: Xiong Zhiliang , Zheng Wenjian , Liu Yanzhang , Kuang Yanjun , Yang Jianguo
Published: September 2019

Strain-induced martensite transformation (SIMT) commonly exists around a crack tip of metastable austenite stainless steels. The influence of the volume expansion of the SIMT on the hydrogen diffusion was investigated by hydrogen diffusion modeling around a crack tip in type 304L austenite stainless steel. The volume expansion changed the tensile stress state into pressure stress state at the crack tip, resulting in a large stress gradient along the crack propagation direction. Compared to the analysis without considering the volume expansion effect, this volume expansion further accelerated the hydrogen transport from the inner surface to a critical region ahead of the crack tip, and further increased the maximum value of the hydrogen concentration at the critical position where the strain-induced martensite fraction approximates to 0.1, indicating that the volume expansion of the SIMT further increased the hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility.
Study on Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Ti2AlNb-Based Alloy under Canning Compression and Annealing
Authors: Wang Sibing , Xu Wenchen , Sun Wanting , Zong Yingying , Chen Yu , Shan Debin
Published: September 2019

The influence of height reduction on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the Ti2AlNb-based alloy was investigated during canning compression and subsequent annealing. After the annealing treatment, the spheroidized B2 phase grains occurred because of partial recrystallization. Meanwhile, the texture evolution of the B2 phase and O phase were analyzed under the deformation degree, ranging from 25% to 75%. The results show that the mechanical properties of the post-annealed alloys were co-affected by the grain size and Schmid factor of the B2 phase. When the height reduction was less than 25%, the compression strength was mainly affected by the grain size. When the height reduction was higher than 50%, it was mainly dominated by the Schmid factor. When the deformation degree reached 75%, the recrystallized grain size decreased to 0.9 μm. Meanwhile, the Schmid factor of a {110}<001> slip system in B2 phase reduced to 0.34. Therefore, the yield strength of the Ti2AlNb alloy at room temperature increased from 892 MPa in the as-rolled condition to 935 MPa after the canning compression and annealing.
Abundance and Antimicrobial Resistance of Three Bacterial Species along a Complete Wastewater Pathway
Authors: Verburg Ilse , García-Cobos Silvia , Hernández Leal Lucia , Waar Karola , Friedrich Alex W. , Schmitt Heike
Published: September 2019

After consumption, antibiotic residues and exposed bacteria end up via the feces in wastewater, and therefore wastewater is believed to play an important role in the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We investigated the abundance and AMR profiles of three different species over a complete wastewater pathway during a one-year sampling campaign, as well as including antimicrobial consumption and antimicrobial concentrations analysis. A total of 2886 isolates (997 Escherichia coli, 863 Klebsiella spp., and 1026 Aeromonas spp.) were cultured from the 211 samples collected. The bacterial AMR profiles mirrored the antimicrobial consumption in the respective locations, which were highest in the hospital. However, the contribution of hospital wastewater to AMR found in the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was below 10% for all antimicrobials tested. We found high concentrations (7–8 logs CFU/L) of the three bacterial species in all wastewaters, and they survived the wastewater treatment (effluent concentrations were around 5 log CFU/L), showing an increase of E. coli in the receiving river after the WWTP discharge. Although the WWTP had no effect on the proportion of AMR, bacterial species and antimicrobial residues were still measured in the effluent, showing the role of wastewater contamination in the environmental surface water.
Two New Flavonoids from the Leaves of Baccharis oblongifolia (Ruiz and Pav.) Pers. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Zampieri Paulo R. F. , Tamayose Cinthia I. , Fávero Oriana A. , Romoff Paulete , Ferreira Marcelo J. P.
Published: September 2019

In this work, two new flavonoids, oblongifolioside A (1) and oblongifolioside B (2), along with eight known compounds (3–10), are isolated from the leaves of Baccharis oblongifolia (Asteraceae). The new structures are established through spectroscopic data and the known compounds are identified by comparison with data reported in the literature. The compounds (1–10) are evaluated in relation to their antiradical properties. Compounds 1 and 2 are found to exhibit high antiradical activity compared to their respective non-acylated flavonoids.
Cordidepsine is A Potential New Anti-HIV Depsidone from Cordia millenii, Baker
Authors: Dongmo Zeukang Rostanie , Siwe-Noundou Xavier , Tagatsing Fotsing Maurice , Tabopda Kuiate Turibio , Mbafor Joseph Tanyi , Krause Rui W. M. , Choudhary Muhammad Iqbal , Atchadé Alex de Théodore
Published: September 2019

Chemical investigation of Cordia millenii, Baker resulted in the isolation of a new depsidone, cordidepsine (1), along with twelve known compounds including cyclooctasulfur (2), lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3), 1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4), glyceryl-1-hexacosanoate (5) betulinic acid (6), lupenone (7), β-amyrone (8), lupeol (9), β-amyrin (10), allantoin (11), 2′-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethylpropanoate (12) and stigmasterol glycoside (13). Hemi-synthetic reactions were carried out on two isolated compounds (5 and 6) to afford two new derivatives, that is, cordicerol A (14) and cordicerol B (15), respectively. The chemical structures of all the compounds were established based on analysis and interpretation of spectroscopic data such as electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI–MS), high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI–MS), fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB–MS), one dimension and two dimension nuclear magnetic resonance (1D and 2D-NMR) spectral data as well as X-ray crystallography (XRC). Lupeol ester derivatives [Lup-20(29)-en-3-triacontanoate (3)], monoglycerol derivatives [1-(26-hydroxyhexacosanoyl)glycerol (4) and glyceryl-1 hexacosanoate (5)] were isolated for the first time from Cordia genus while sulfur allotrope [cyclooctasulfur (2)] was isolated for the first time from plant origin. Biological assays cordidepsine (1) exhibited significant anti-HIV integrase activity with IC50 = 4.65 μM; EtOAc extract of stem barks, EtOAc fraction of roots and leaves were not toxic against 3T3 cells.
Analysis of Phenolic Composition of Byproducts (Seeds and Peels) of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Cultivated in Colombia
Authors: Rosero Johanna C. , Cruz Silvia , Osorio Coralia , Hurtado Nelson
Published: September 2019

The byproducts (seeds and peels) of an avocado cultivated in the south of Colombia were extracted with aqueous acetone and their antioxidant properties were measured with ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assays, and total polyphenol content was determined by Folin–Ciocalteu method. A bioguided fractionation was performed, first by SPE (solid phase extraction) on Amberlite XAD-7, and then by size exclusion chromatography on Sephadex LH-20. The polyphenolic-rich extracts and their fractions were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS), finding the presence of organic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, catechins, free and glycosylated flavonoids, and dimeric and trimeric procyanidins. Catechin, epicatechin, six quercetin derivatives, four dimeric procyanidins (three type B and one type A), and three trimeric procyanidins (two type B and one type A) were detected in the most active fractions of avocado peel and seeds. The most antioxidant fractions contain the higher molecular weight phenolic compounds (condensed tannins).
Structure–Function Correlations in Sputter Deposited Gold/Fluorocarbon Multilayers for Tuning Optical Response
Authors: Pandit Pallavi , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Rothkirch André , Roth Stephan V. , Bernstorff Sigrid , Gupta Ajay
Published: September 2019

A new strategy to nanoengineer gold/fluorocarbon multilayer (ML) nanostructures is reported. We have investigated the morphological changes occurring at the metal–polymer interface in ML structures with varying volume fraction of gold (Au) and the kinetic growth aspect of the microscale properties of nano-sized Au in plasma polymer fluorocarbon (PPFC). Investigations were carried out at various temperatures and annealing times by means of grazing incidence small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS and GIWAXS). We have fabricated a series of MLs with varying volume fraction (0.12, 0.27, 0.38) of Au and bilayer periodicity in ML structure. They show an interesting granular structure consisting of nearly spherical nanoparticles within the polymer layer. The nanoparticle (NP) morphology changes due to the collective effects of NPs diffusion within ensembles in the in-plane vicinity and interlayer with increasing temperature. The in-plane NPs size distinctly increases with increasing temperature. The NPs become more spherical, thus reducing the surface energy. Linear growth of NPs with temperature and time shows diffusion-controlled growth of NPs in the ML structure. The structural stability of the multilayer is controlled by the volume ratio of the metal in polymer. At room temperature, UV-Vis shows a blue shift of the plasmon peak from 560 nm in ML Au/PTFE_1 to 437 nm in Au/PTFE_3. We have identified the fabrication and postdeposition annealing conditions to limit the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) shift from Δ λ L S P R = 180 nm (Au/PTFE_1) to Δ λ L S P R = 67 nm (Au/PTFE_3 ML)) and their optical response over a wide visible wavelength range. A variation in the dielectric constant of the polymer in presence of varying Au inclusion is found to be a possible factor affecting the LSPR frequency. Our findings may provide insights in nanoengineering of ML structure that can be useful to systematically control the growth of NPs in polymer matrix.
A Study of the Shock Sensitivity of Energetic Single Crystals by Large-Scale Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yu Yi , Xiang Meizhen
Published: September 2019

Understanding the reaction initiation of energetic single crystals under external stimuli is a long-term challenge in the field of high energy density materials. Herewith, we developed an ab initio molecular dynamics method based on the multiscale shock technique (MSST) and reported the reaction initiation mechanism by performing large-scale simulations for the sensitive explosive benzotrifuroxan (BTF), insensitive explosive triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB), four polymorphs of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) pristine crystals and five novel CL-20 cocrystals. A theoretical indicator, tinitiation, the delay of decomposition reaction under shock, was proposed to characterize the shock sensitivity of energetic single crystal, which was proved to be reliable and satisfactorily consistent with experiments. We found that it was the coupling of heat and pressure that drove the shock reaction, wherein the vibrational spectra, the specific heat capacity, as well as the strength of the trigger bonds were the determinants of the shock sensitivity. The intermolecular hydrogen bonds were found to effectively buffer the system from heating, thereby delaying the decomposition reaction and reducing the shock sensitivity of the energetic single crystal. Theoretical rules for synthesizing novel energetic materials with low shock sensitivity were given. Our work is expected to provide a useful reference for the understanding, certifying and adjusting of the shock sensitivity of novel energetic materials.
Chilled Potatoes Decrease Postprandial Glucose, Insulin, and Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Peptide Compared to Boiled Potatoes in Females with Elevated Fasting Glucose and Insulin
Authors: Patterson Mindy A , Fong Joy Nolte , Maiya Madhura , Kung Stephanie , Sarkissian Araz , Nashef Nezar , Wang Wanyi
Published: September 2019

Resistant starch (RS) has been shown to improve postprandial glycemia and insulin sensitivity in adults with metabolic syndrome. RS is found naturally in potatoes, where the amount varies based on cooking method and serving temperature. Thirty females with a mean BMI of 32.8 ± 3.7 kg/m2, fasting glucose of 110.5 mg/dL, and insulin of 10.3 µIU/L, completed this randomized, crossover study. A quantity of 250 g of boiled (low RS) and baked then chilled (high RS) russet potatoes were consumed on two separate occasions. Glycemic (glucose and insulin) and incretin response, subjective satiety, and dietary intake were measured. Results showed that the chilled potato elicited significant reductions at 15 and 30 min in glucose (4.8% and 9.2%), insulin (25.8% and 22.6%), and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) (41.1% and 37.6%), respectively. The area under the curve for insulin and GIP were significantly lower after the chilled potato, but no differences were seen in glucose, glucagon-like peptide-1, and peptide YY, or overall subjective satiety. A higher carbohydrate and glycemic index but lower fat diet was consumed 48-hours following the chilled potato than the boiled potato. This study demonstrates that consuming chilled potatoes higher in RS can positively impact the glycemic response in females with elevated fasting glucose and insulin.
Increase of the Adiponectin/Leptin Ratio in Patients with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Unamuno Xabier , Izaguirre Maitane , Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Rodríguez Amaia , Ramírez Beatriz , Becerril Sara , Valentí Víctor , Moncada Rafael , Silva Camilo , Salvador Javier , Portincasa Piero , Frühbeck Gema , Catalán Victoria
Published: September 2019

Bariatric surgery remains the most effective option for achieving important and sustained weight loss. We explored the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on the circulating levels of adiponectin, leptin, and the adiponectin/leptin (Adpn/Lep) ratio in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Twenty-five T2D volunteers undergoing RYGB were included in the study, and further subclassified as patients that responded or not to RYBG, regarding remission of T2D. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were evaluated before and after RYGB. Obese patients with T2D exhibited an increase (p < 0.0001) in the Adpn/Lep ratio after RYGB. Changes in the Adpn/Lep ratio correlated better with changes in anthropometric data (p < 0.001) than with the variations of adiponectin or leptin alone. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the change in the Adpn/Lep ratio in patients with T2D was an independent predictor of the changes in body mass index (p < 0.001) and body fat percentage (p = 0.022). However, the Adpn/Lep ratio did not differ between individuals with or without T2D remission after RYGB. In summary, the current study demonstrated that after weight and body fat loss following RYGB, the Adpn/Lep ratio increased in patients with obesity and T2D.
You’d Better Zinc—Trace Element Homeostasis in Infection and Inflammation
Authors: Haase Hajo , Schomburg Lutz
Published: September 2019

During recent years, we have witnessed a growing appreciation of several micronutrients in the immune response, including vitamins and minerals [...]
Health Benefits of β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) Supplementation in Addition to Physical Exercise in Older Adults: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Courel-Ibáñez Javier , Vetrovsky Tomas , Dadova Klara , Pallarés Jesús G. , Steffl Michal
Published: September 2019

Both regular exercise training and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation are shown as effective treatments to delay or reverse frailty and reduce cognitive impairment in older people. However, there is very little evidence on the true benefits of combining both strategies. The aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the effects of exercise in addition to HMB supplementation, on physical and cognitive health in older adults. Data from 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of HMB supplementation and physical function in adults aged 50 years or older were analyzed, involving 384 participants. Results showed that HMB supplementation in addition to physical exercise has no or fairly low impact in improving body composition, muscle strength, or physical performance in adults aged 50 to 80 years, compared to exercise alone. There is a gap of knowledge on the beneficial effects of HMB combined with exercise to preserve cognitive functions in aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Future RCTs are needed to refine treatment choices combining HMB and exercises for older people in particular populations, ages, and health status. Specifically, interventions in older adults aged 80 years or older, with cognitive impairment, frailty, or limited mobility are required.
Infectious Complications in Home Parenteral Nutrition: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing Peripherally-Inserted Central Catheters with Other Central Catheters
Authors: Mateo-Lobo Raquel , Riveiro Javier , Vega-Piñero Belén , Botella-Carretero José I.
Published: September 2019

Background: Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) has become a common therapy. There is still controversy regarding the possibility that peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) may diminish catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) rates. Methods: We searched the PubMed database for studies reporting the rates of CRBSI with HPN. Study selection was performed independently by three investigators. Disagreements were discussed and resolved by consensus or by arbitration by an author not involved in the search. The National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tools was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. Meta-analyses were performed using MetaXL 5.3 with the quality effects model. Results: Screening of the article titles and abstracts yielded 134 full text articles for evaluation. Only three prospective studies that included appropriate data were considered for the final analysis. The relative risk of the CRBSI rate was 0.41 (0.14–1.17) for PICC vs. tunneled catheters. The relative risk of the CRBSI rate was 0.16 (0.04–0.64) for PICC vs. ports. The relative risk of the thrombosis rate was 3.16 (0.20–49.67) for PICCs vs. tunneled. Conclusions: There is insufficient evidence to show a difference in CRBSI rates between PICCs and tunneled catheters. On the other hand, PICCs showed lower CRBSI rates than ports. There was also no difference in the rate of catheter-related thrombosis and mechanical complications.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Lesson from Nutrigenomics
Authors: De Santis Stefania , Cariello Marica , Piccinin Elena , Sabbà Carlo , Moschetta Antonio
Published: September 2019

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) consumption has a beneficial effect on human health, especially for prevention of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Here we underscore the peculiar importance of specific cultivars used for EVOO production since biodiversity among cultivars in terms of fatty acids and polyphenols content could differently impact on the metabolic homeostasis. In this respect, the nutrigenomic approach could be very useful to fully dissect the pathways modulated by different EVOO cultivars in terms of mRNA and microRNA transcriptome. The identification of genes and miRNAs modulated by specific EVOO cultivars could also help to discover novel nutritional biomarkers for prevention and/or prognosis of human disease. Thus, the nutrigenomic approach depicts a novel scenario to investigate if a specific EVOO cultivar could have a positive effect on human health by preventing the onset of cardiovascular disease and/or chronic inflammatory disorders also leading to cancer.
Food Addiction: Implications for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Overeating
Authors: Adams Rachel C. , Sedgmond Jemma , Maizey Leah , Chambers Christopher D. , Lawrence Natalia S.
Published: September 2019

With the obesity epidemic being largely attributed to overeating, much research has been aimed at understanding the psychological causes of overeating and using this knowledge to develop targeted interventions. Here, we review this literature under a model of food addiction and present evidence according to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) criteria for substance use disorders. We review several innovative treatments related to a food addiction model ranging from cognitive intervention tasks to neuromodulation techniques. We conclude that there is evidence to suggest that, for some individuals, food can induce addictive-type behaviours similar to those seen with other addictive substances. However, with several DSM-5 criteria having limited application to overeating, the term ‘food addiction’ is likely to apply only in a minority of cases. Nevertheless, research investigating the underlying psychological causes of overeating within the context of food addiction has led to some novel and potentially effective interventions. Understanding the similarities and differences between the addictive characteristics of food and illicit substances should prove fruitful in further developing these interventions.
Increased Efficacy of Oral Fixed-Dose Combination of Amphotericin B and AHCC® Natural Adjuvant against Aspergillosis
Authors: Pérez-Cantero Alba , Serrano Dolores R. , Navarro-Rodríguez Patricia , Schätzlein Andreas G. , Uchegbu Ijeoma F. , Torrado Juan J. , Capilla Javier
Published: September 2019

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis represents one of the most serious fungal infections among immunocompromised patients. In this study, we aimed to analyze the in vivo efficacy of prophylactic oral amphotericin B (AMB) encapsulated in modified chitosan-nanoparticles (Nanomerics’ Molecular Envelope Technology (MET)) supplemented with a standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes mycelia (AHCC®) in a murine model of pulmonary aspergillosis. We determined fungal burden and survival of mice and additionally, we carried out a cytokine analysis in an attempt to understand the immunomodulation of the extract. Our results evidenced equivalent efficacy between orally administered AMB-MET and the intravenous liposomal AMB marketed formulation. Addition of the AHCC® supplement significantly improved efficacy in terms of burden reduction and survival increase of both oral and intravenous AMB therapies compared to the untreated control group. Moreover, a protective effect of the extract was observed in terms of weight loss. Regarding the cytokine profiles, the Th1 immune response was stimulated in treated animals when compared to the control group. This response was marked by an enhancement in the MCP-1, GM-CSF, VEGF, RANTES and IL-17 levels and a decrease in the IL-6, a biomarker related to the severity of the infection.
Polymer Clay Nano-composites
Authors: Leporatti Stefano
Published: September 2019

Clay–polymer composite materials is an exciting area of research and this Special Issue aims to address the current state-of-the-art of “Polymer Clay Nano-Composites” for several applications, among them antibacterial, environmental, water remediation, dental, drug delivery and others [...]
Biocompatibility of Polymer and Ceramic CAD/CAM Materials with Human Gingival Fibroblasts (HGFs)
Authors: Rizo-Gorrita María , Herráez-Galindo Cristina , Torres-Lagares Daniel , Serrera-Figallo María-Ángeles , Gutiérre-Pérez José-Luis
Published: September 2019

Four polymer and ceramic computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) materials from different manufacturers (VITA CAD-Temp (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA), Celtra Duo (zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramic, ZLS), IPS e.max CAD (lithium disilicate (LS2)), and VITA YZ (yttrium-tetragonal zirconia polycrystal, Y-TZP)) were tested to evaluate the cytotoxic effects and collagen type I secretions on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). A total of 160 disc-shaped samples (Ø: 10 ± 2 mm; h: 2 mm) were milled from commercial blanks and blocks. Direct-contact cytotoxicity assays were evaluated at 24, 48, and 72 h, and collagen type I (COL1) secretions were analysed by cell-based ELISA at 24 and 72 h. Both experiments revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). At 24 and 48 h of contact, cytotoxic potential was observed for all materials. Later, at 72 h, all groups reached biologically acceptable levels. LS2 showed the best results regarding cell viability and collagen secretion in all of the time evaluations, while Y-TZP and ZLS revealed intermediate results, and PMMA exhibited the lowest values in both experiments. At 72 h, all groups showed sharp decreases in COL1 secretion regarding the 24-h values. According to the results obtained and the limitations of the present in vitro study, it may be concluded that the ceramic materials revealed a better cell response than the polymers. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to consolidate these findings and thus extrapolate the results into clinical practice.
Lethality Calculation of Particulate Liquid Foods during Aseptic Processing
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Tarmizan , Briesen Heiko , Först Petra , Zacharias Jörg
Published: September 2019

In the past two decades, aseptic processing has been implemented in the food industry to sterilize particulate liquid food mixtures. To ensure that particulates in the liquid receive sufficient heating, mathematical modeling is employed to evaluate the temperature and lethality level in the particles. We developed a model for the thermal processing of liquid foods containing cubic particles in a continuous laminar pipe flow system, comprising a tubular heat exchanger. In our simplified approach, heat transfer equations for particulate liquid foods were solved analytically and numerically to evaluate the effect of certain process parameters on the time temperature profiles of particles and the lethality value in the products. A comparison of the particles’ lethality values was made between the experiment and simulation for two different particle residence times in a case study, and the model predictions were in good agreement with experimental data. Based on modeling studies, it was found that within the range of parameters studied, an increase in flow rate and particle size resulted in a decrease in the lethality value of the particles, while an increase in particle concentration and holding tube length resulted in the opposite effect.
Pelletization of Sunflower Seed Husks: Evaluating and Optimizing Energy Consumption and Physical Properties by Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Cui Xuyang , Yang Junhong , Shi Xinyu , Lei Wanning , Huang Tao , Bai Chao
Published: September 2019

Pelletization is a significant approach for the efficient utilization of biomass energy. Sunflower seed husk is a common solid waste in the process of oil production. The novelty of this study was to determine the parameters during production of a novel pellet made from sunflower seed husk. The energy consumption (W) and physical properties (bulk density (BD) and mechanical durability (DU)) of the novel pellet were evaluated and optimized at the laboratory by using a pelletizer and response surface methodology (RSM) under a controlled moisture content (4%–14%), compression pressure (100–200 MPa), and die temperature (70–170 °C). The results show that the variables of temperature, pressure, and moisture content of raw material are positively correlated with BD and DU. Increasing the temperature and moisture content of raw materials can effectively reduce W, while increasing the pressure has an adverse effect on W. The optimum conditions of temperature (150 °C), pressure (180 MPa), and moisture content (12%) led to a BD of 1117.44 kg/m3, DU of 98.8%, and W of 25.3 kJ/kg in the lab. Overall, although the nitrogen content was slightly high, the novel manufactured pellets had excellent performance based on ISO 17225 (International Organization for Standardization of 17225, Geneva, Switzerland, 2016). Thus, sunflower seed husk could be considered as a potential feedstock for biomass pelletization.
Highly Selective CO2 Capture on Waste Polyurethane Foam-Based Activated Carbon
Authors: Ge Chao , Lian Dandan , Cui Shaopeng , Gao Jie , Lu Jianjun
Published: September 2019

Low-cost activated carbons were prepared from waste polyurethane foam by physical activation with CO2 for the first time and chemical activation with Ca(OH)2, NaOH, or KOH. The activation conditions were optimized to produce microporous carbons with high CO2 adsorption capacity and CO2/N2 selectivity. The sample prepared by physical activation showed CO2/N2 selectivity of up to 24, much higher than that of chemical activation. This is mainly due to the narrower microporosity and the rich N content produced during the physical activation process. However, physical activation samples showed inferior textural properties compared to chemical activation samples and led to a lower CO2 uptake of 3.37 mmol·g−1 at 273 K. Porous carbons obtained by chemical activation showed a high CO2 uptake of 5.85 mmol·g−1 at 273 K, comparable to the optimum activated carbon materials prepared from other wastes. This is mainly attributed to large volumes of ultra-micropores (<1 nm) up to 0.212 cm3·g−1 and a high surface area of 1360 m2·g−1. Furthermore, in consideration of the presence of fewer contaminants, lower weight losses of physical activation samples, and the excellent recyclability of both physical- and chemical-activated samples, the waste polyurethane foam-based carbon materials exhibited potential application prospects in CO2 capture.