bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Biomass and Chitin Production of Morchella Mushrooms Grown on Starch-Based Substrates
Authors: Papadaki Aikaterini , Diamantopoulou Panagiota , Papanikolaou Seraphim , Philippoussis Antonios
Published: July 2019

Morchella sp. is one of the most expensive mushrooms with a high nutritional profile. In this study, the polysaccharide content of Morchella species was investigated. Specifically, mycelium growth rate, biomass production, sclerotia formation, and glucosamine and total polysaccharides content of six Morchella species grown on a starch-based media were evaluated. Submerged fermentations in potato dextrose broth resulted in a glucosamine content of around 3.0%. In solid-state fermentations (SSF), using potato dextrose agar, a high linear growth rate (20.6 mm/day) was determined. Increased glucosamine and total polysaccharides content were observed after the formation of sclerotia. Biomass and glucosamine content were correlated, and the equations were used for the indirect estimation of biomass in SSF with agro-industrial starch-based materials. Wheat grains (WG), potato peels (PP), and a mixture of 1:1 of them (WG–PP) were evaluated as substrates. Results showed that the highest growth rate of 9.05 mm/day was determined on WG and the maximum biomass yield (407 mg/g) on WG–PP. The total polysaccharide content reached up to 18.4% of dried biomass in WG–PP. The results of the present study proved encouraging for the efficient bioconversion of potato and other starch-based agro-industrial waste streams to morel biomass and sclerotia eliciting nutritional and bioactive value.
Visualizing the Knowledge Structure and Research Evolution of Infrared Detection Technology Studies
Authors: Hong Rui , Xiang Chenglang , Liu Hui , Glowacz Adam , Pan Wei
Published: July 2019

This paper aims to explore the current status, research trends and hotspots related to the field of infrared detection technology through bibliometric analysis and visualization techniques based on the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) and Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) articles published between 1990 and 2018 using the VOSviewer and Citespace software tools. Based on our analysis, we first present the spatiotemporal distribution of the literature related to infrared detection technology, including annual publications, origin country/region, main research organization, and source publications. Then, we report the main subject categories involved in infrared detection technology. Furthermore, we adopt literature cocitation, author cocitation, keyword co-occurrence and timeline visualization analyses to visually explore the research fronts and trends, and present the evolution of infrared detection technology research. The results show that China, the USA and Italy are the three most active countries in infrared detection technology research and that the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique has the largest number of publications among related organizations. The most prominent research hotspots in the past five years are vibration thermal imaging, pulse thermal imaging, photonic crystals, skin temperature, remote sensing technology, and detection of delamination defects in concrete. The trend of future research on infrared detection technology is from qualitative to quantitative research development, engineering application research and infrared detection technology combined with other detection techniques. The proposed approach based on the scientific knowledge graph analysis can be used to establish reference information and a research basis for application and development of methods in the domain of infrared detection technology studies.
Glycyrrhizin Protects the Diabetic Retina against Permeability, Neuronal, and Vascular Damage through Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Li , Jiang Youde , Steinle Jena J.
Published: July 2019

Damage associated molecular pattern (DAMPs), such as high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), may be involved in retinal inflammation in response to high glucose. To test whether HMGB1 inhibition could protect the diabetic retina, C57BL/6J mice were made diabetic and treated with glycyrrhizin, a HMGB1 inhibitor, for up to six months. Measurements of permeability, neuronal, and vascular changes were done, as well as assessments of HMGB1, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and interleukin-1-beta (IL1β) levels. Retinal endothelial cells (REC) treated with glycyrrhizin had reduced IL1β and cleaved caspase 3 levels. Data also demonstrate that glycyrrhizin effectively reduced HMGB1 levels throughout the retina, as well as maintained normal retinal permeability and retinal capillary coverage. Glycyrrhizin maintained normal cell numbers in the ganglion cell layer and prevented thinning of the retina at two months. These histological changes were associated with reduced reactive oxygen species, as well as reduced HMGB1, TNFα, and IL1β levels. The data strongly imply that HMGB1 inhibition prevented diabetic retinal changes through anti-inflammatory pathways.
The Efficacy and Safety of Doripenem in the Treatment of Acute Bacterial Infections—A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lai Chih-Cheng , Cheng I-Ling , Chen Yu-Hung , Tang Hung-Jen
Published: July 2019

This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of doripenem on treating patients with acute bacterial infections. The Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched up to April 2019. Only randomized clinical trials comparing doripenem and other comparators for the treatment of acute bacterial infection were included. The primary outcome was the clinical success rate and the secondary outcomes were microbiological eradication rate and risk of adverse events. Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Overall, doripenem had a similar clinical success rate with comparators (odds ratio [OR], 1.15; 95% CI, 0.79–1.66, I2 = 58%). Similar clinical success rates were noted between doripenem and comparators for pneumonia (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.46–1.53, I2 = 72%) and for intra-abdominal infections (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.57–1.72). For complicated urinary tract infection, doripenem was associated with higher success rate than comparators (OR, 1.89, 95% CI, 1.13–3.17, I2 = 0%). The pool analysis comparing doripenem and other carbapenems showed no significant differences between each other (OR, 0.96, 95% CI, 0.59–1.58, I2 = 63%). Doripenem also had a similar microbiological eradication rate with comparators (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.86–1.36, I2 = 0%). Finally, doripenem had a similar risk of treatment-emergent adverse events as comparators (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.83–1.17, I2 = 33%). In conclusion, the clinical efficacy of doripenem is as high as that of the comparator drugs in the treatment of acute bacterial infection; furthermore, this antibiotic is as well tolerated as the comparators.
Preclinical Evidence of STAT3 Inhibitor Pacritinib Overcoming Temozolomide Resistance via Downregulating miR-21-Enriched Exosomes from M2 Glioblastoma-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Chuang Hao-Yu , Su Yu-kai , Liu Heng-Wei , Chen Chao-Hsuan , Chiu Shao-Chih , Cho Der-Yang , Lin Shinn-Zong , Chen Yueh-Sheng , Lin Chien-Min
Published: July 2019

Background: The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in virtually every aspect of tumorigenesis of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). A dysfunctional TME promotes drug resistance, disease recurrence, and distant metastasis. Recent evidence indicates that exosomes released by stromal cells within the TME may promote oncogenic phenotypes via transferring signaling molecules such as cytokines, proteins, and microRNAs. Results: In this study, clinical GBM samples were collected and analyzed. We found that GBM-associated macrophages (GAMs) secreted exosomes which were enriched with oncomiR-21. Coculture of GAMs (and GAM-derived exosomes) and GBM cell lines increased GBM cells’ resistance against temozolomide (TMZ) by upregulating the prosurvival gene programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4) and stemness markers SRY (sex determining region y)-box 2 (Sox2), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), Nestin, and miR-21-5p and increasing the M2 cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor beta 1(TGF-β1) secreted by GBM cells, promoting the M2 polarization of GAMs. Subsequently, pacritinib treatment suppressed GBM tumorigenesis and stemness; more importantly, pacritinib-treated GBM cells showed a markedly reduced ability to secret M2 cytokines and reduced miR-21-enriched exosomes secreted by GAMs. Pacritinib-mediated effects were accompanied by a reduction of oncomiR miR-21-5p, by which the tumor suppressor PDCD4 was targeted. We subsequently established patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models where mice bore patient GBM and GAMs. Treatment with pacritinib and the combination of pacritinib and TMZ appeared to significantly reduce the tumorigenesis of GBM/GAM PDX mice as well as overcome TMZ resistance and M2 polarization of GAMs. Conclusion: In summation, we showed the potential of pacritinib alone or in combination with TMZ to suppress GBM tumorigenesis via modulating STAT3/miR-21/PDCD4 signaling. Further investigations are warranted for adopting pacritinib for the treatment of TMZ-resistant GBM in clinical settings.
Reassessing the Role of Eosinophils as a Biomarker in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Tinè Mariaenrica , Biondini Davide , Semenzato Umberto , Bazzan Erica , Cosio Manuel G. , Saetta Marina , Turato Graziella
Published: July 2019

Blood eosinophils measurement, as proxy for tissue eosinophils, has become an important biomarker for exacerbation risk and response to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Its use to determine the pharmacological approach is recommended in the latest COPD guidelines. The potential role of blood eosinophils is mainly based on data derived from post-hoc and retrospective analyses that showed an association between increased blood eosinophils and risk of exacerbations, as well as mitigation of this risk with ICS. Yet other publications, including studies in real life COPD, do not confirm these assumptions. Moreover, anti-eosinophil therapy targeting interleukin (IL)-5 failed to reduce exacerbations in COPD patients with high blood eosinophils, which casts significant doubts on the role of eosinophils in COPD. Furthermore, a reduction of eosinophils might be harmful since COPD patients with relatively high eosinophils have better pulmonary function, better life quality, less infections and longer survival. These effects are probably linked to the role of eosinophils in the immune response against pathogens. In conclusion, in COPD, high blood eosinophils are widely used as a biomarker for exacerbation risk and response to ICS. However, much is yet to be learned about the reasons for the high eosinophil counts, their variations and their controversial effects on the fate of COPD patients.
Contribution of Infragravity Waves to Run-up and Overwash in the Pertuis Breton Embayment (France)
Authors: Lashley Christopher H. , Bertin Xavier , Roelvink Dano , Arnaud Gaël
Published: July 2019

Wave run-up and dune overwash are typically assessed using empirical models developed for a specific range of often-simplistic conditions. Field experiments are essential in extending these formulae; yet obtaining comprehensive field data under extreme conditions is often challenging. Here, we use XBeach Surfbeat (XB-SB)—a shortwave-averaged but wave-group resolving numerical model—to complement a field campaign, with two main objectives: i) to assess the contribution of infragravity (IG) waves to washover development in a partially-sheltered area, with a highly complex bathymetry; and ii) to evaluate the unconventional nested-modeling approach that was applied. The analysis shows that gravity waves rapidly decrease across the embayment while IG waves are enhanced. Despite its exclusion of gravity-band swash, XB-SB is able to accurately reproduce both the large-scale hydrodynamics—wave heights and mean water levels across the 30 × 10 km embayment; and the local morphodynamics—steep post-storm dune profile and washover deposit. These findings show that the contribution of IG waves to dune overwash along the bay is significant and highlight the need for any method or model to consider IG waves when applied to similar environments. As many phase-averaged numerical models that are typically used for large-scale coastal applications exclude IG waves, XB-SB may prove to be a suitable alternative.
Solid Lubrication with MoS2: A Review
Authors: Vazirisereshk Mohammad R. , Martini Ashlie , Strubbe David A. , Baykara Mehmet Z.
Published: July 2019

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is one of the most broadly utilized solid lubricants with a wide range of applications, including but not limited to those in the aerospace/space industry. Here we present a focused review of solid lubrication with MoS2 by highlighting its structure, synthesis, applications and the fundamental mechanisms underlying its lubricative properties, together with a discussion of their environmental and temperature dependence. The review also includes an extensive overview of the structure and tribological properties of doped MoS2, followed by a discussion of potential future research directions.
Mechanical Identification of Materials and Structures with Optical Methods and Metaheuristic Optimization
Authors: Ficarella Elisa , Lamberti Luciano , Degertekin Sadik Ozgur
Published: July 2019

This study presents a hybrid framework for mechanical identification of materials and structures. The inverse problem is solved by combining experimental measurements performed by optical methods and non-linear optimization using metaheuristic algorithms. In particular, we develop three advanced formulations of Simulated Annealing (SA), Harmony Search (HS) and Big Bang-Big Crunch (BBBC) including enhanced approximate line search and computationally cheap gradient evaluation strategies. The rationale behind the new algorithms—denoted as Hybrid Fast Simulated Annealing (HFSA), Hybrid Fast Harmony Search (HFHS) and Hybrid Fast Big Bang-Big Crunch (HFBBBC)—is to generate high quality trial designs lying on a properly selected set of descent directions. Besides hybridizing SA/HS/BBBC metaheuristic search engines with gradient information and approximate line search, HS and BBBC are also hybridized with an enhanced 1-D probabilistic search derived from SA. The results obtained in three inverse problems regarding composite and transversely isotropic hyperelastic materials/structures with up to 17 unknown properties clearly demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach, which allows to significantly reduce the number of structural analyses with respect to previous SA/HS/BBBC formulations and improves robustness of metaheuristic search engines.
Structure, DFT Calculations, and Magnetic Characterization of Coordination Polymers of Bridged Dicyanamido-Metal(II) Complexes
Authors: Mautner Franz A. , Jantscher Patricia , Fischer Roland C. , Torvisco Ana , Vicente Ramon , Karsili Tolga N. V. , Massoud Salah S.
Published: July 2019

Three coordination polymers of metal(II)-dicyanamido (dca) complexes with 4-methoxypyridine-N-oxide (4-MOP-NO); namely, catena-[Co(µ1,5-dca)2(4-MOP-NO)2] (1), catena-[Mn(µ1,5-dca)2(4-MOP-NO)2] (2), catena-[Cd(µ1,5-dca)2(4-MOP-NO)2] (3), and the mononuclear [Cu(κ1dca)2(4-MOP-NO)2] (4), were synthesized in this research. The complexes were analyzed by single crystal X-ray diffraction as well as spectroscopic methods (UV/vis, IR). The polymeric 1-D chains in complexes 1–3 were achieved by the doubly µ1,5-bridging dca ligands and the O-donor atoms of two axial 4-MOP-NO molecules in trans configuration around the distorted M(II) octahedral. On the other hand, the two “trans-axial” pyridine-N-oxide molecules in complexes 2 and 3 display opposite orientation (s-trans). The DFT (density functional theory) computational studies on the complexes 1–3 were consistent with the experimentally observed crystal structures. Compounds 1 and 2 display weak antiferromagnetic coupling between metal ions (J = −10.8 for 1 and −0.35 for 2).
Bio-Catalysis and Biomedical Perspectives of Magnetic Nanoparticles as Versatile Carriers
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Mehmood Shahid , Rasheed Tahir , Iqbal Hafiz M. N.
Published: July 2019

In recent years, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have gained increasing attention as versatile carriers because of their unique magnetic properties, biocatalytic functionalities, and capabilities to work at the cellular and molecular level of biological interactions. Moreover, owing to their exceptional functional properties, such as large surface area, large surface-to-volume ratio, and mobility and high mass transference, MNPs have been employed in several applications in different sectors such as supporting matrices for enzymes immobilization and controlled release of drugs in biomedicine. Unlike non-magnetic carriers, MNPs can be easily separated and recovered using an external magnetic field. In addition to their biocompatible microenvironment, the application of MNPs represents a remarkable green chemistry approach. Herein, we focused on state-of-the-art two majorly studied perspectives of MNPs as versatile carriers for (1) matrices for enzymes immobilization, and (2) matrices for controlled drug delivery. Specifically, from the applied perspectives of magnetic nanoparticles, a series of different applications with suitable examples are discussed in detail. The second half is focused on different metal-based magnetic nanoparticles and their exploitation for biomedical purposes.
The Inventory Model for Deteriorating Items under Conditions Involving Cash Discount and Trade Credit
Authors: Chung Kun-Jen , Liao Jui-Jung , Lin Shy-Der , Chuang Sheng-Tu , Srivastava Hari Mohan
Published: July 2019

In the year 2004, Chang and Teng investigated an inventory model for deteriorating items in which the supplier not only provides a cash discount, but also allows a permissible delay in payments. The main purpose of the present investigation is three-fold, as follows. First, it is found herein that Theorem 1 of Chang and Teng (2004) has notable shortcomings in terms of their determination of the optimal solution of the annual total relevant cost Z ( T ) by adopting the Taylor-series approximation method. Theorem 1 in this paper does not make use of the Taylor-series approximation method in order to overcome the shortcomings in Chang and Teng (2004) and alternatively derives all the optimal solutions of the annual total relevant cost Z ( T ) . Secondly, this paper systematically revisits the annual total relevant cost Z ( T ) in Chang and Teng (2004) and presents in detail the mathematically correct ways for the derivations of Z ( T ) . Thirdly, this paper not only shows that Theorem 1 of Chang and Teng (2004) is not necessarily true for finding the optimal solution of the annual total relevant cost Z ( T ) , but it also demonstrates how Theorem 1 in this paper can locate all of the optimal solutions of Z ( T ) . The mathematical analytic investigation presented in this paper is believed to be useful for correct managerial considerations and managerial decisions.
Interpretation of Multivariate Association Patterns between Multicollinear Physical Activity Accelerometry Data and Cardiometabolic Health in Children—A Tutorial
Authors: Aadland Eivind , Andersen Lars Bo , Resaland Geir Kåre , Kvalheim Olav Martin
Published: July 2019

Associations between multicollinear accelerometry-derived physical activity (PA) data and cardiometabolic health in children needs to be analyzed using an approach that can handle collinearity among the explanatory variables. The aim of this paper is to provide readers a tutorial overview of interpretation of multivariate pattern analysis models using PA accelerometry data that reveals the associations to cardiometabolic health. A total of 841 children (age 10.2 ± 0.3 years) provided valid data on accelerometry (ActiGraph GT3X+) and six indices of cardiometabolic health that were used to create a composite score. We used a high-resolution PA description including 23 intensity variables covering the intensity spectrum (from 0–99 to ≥10000 counts per minute), and multivariate pattern analysis to analyze data. We report different statistical measures of the multivariate associations between PA and cardiometabolic health and use decentile groups of PA as a basis for discussing the meaning and impact of multicollinearity. We show that for high-resolution accelerometry data; considering all explanatory variables is crucial to obtain a correct interpretation of associations to cardiometabolic health; which is otherwise strongly confounded by multicollinearity in the dataset. Thus; multivariate pattern analysis challenges the traditional interpretation of findings from linear regression models assuming independent explanatory variables
Investigation of Plasma Activated Si-Si Bonded Interface by Infrared Image Based on Combination of Spatial Domain and Morphology
Authors: Du Mao , Li Dongling , Liu Yufei
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a detection method for characterizing the bonded interface of O2 plasma activated silicon wafer direct bonding. The images, obtained by infrared imaging system, were analyzed by the software based on spatial domain and morphology methods. The spatial domain processing methods, including median filtering and Laplace operator, were applied to achieve de-noising and contrast enhancement. With optimized parameters of sharpening operator patterns, disk size, binarization threshold, morphological parameter A and B, the void contours were clear and convenient for segmentation, and the bonding rate was accurately calculated. Furthermore, the void characteristics with different sizes and distributions were also analyzed, and the detailed statistics of the void’s number and size are given. Moreover, the orthogonal experiment was designed and analyzed, indicating that O2 flow has the greatest influence on the bonding rate in comparison with activated time and power. With the optimized process parameters of activated power of 150 W, O2 flow of 100 sccm and time of 120 s, the testing results show that the bonding rate can reach 94.51% and the bonding strength is 12.32 MPa.
Comparison of Retention Behavior between Supercritical Fluid Chromatography and Normal-Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Various Stationary Phases
Authors: Hirose Tsunehisa , Keck Daniel , Izumi Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi
Published: July 2019

The retention behavior of a wide variety of stationary phases was compared in supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) and normal-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (NP-HPLC). We also attempted to elucidate the retention behavior in SFC by investigating the selectivity of the different stationary phases. SFC separation conditions with polar stationary phases, such as silica gel (SL) and diol (Diol) phases, operate via adsorptions that include hydrophilic and ionic interactions similar to those in NP-HPLC. Moreover, non-polar stationary phases, such as pentabromophenyl (PBr), pyrenylethyl (PYE), and octadecyl (C18), could be used despite the non-polar mobile phase conditions, because the dispersion and π-π interactions were stronger in SFC than in HPLC. These results reflect the selectivity of the stationary phase and its retention factor, thus providing useful information for the selection of appropriate stationary phases for particular analytes.
Toward a Harmonized and Standardized Protocol for the Determination of Total Hydroxytyrosol and Tyrosol Content in Virgin Olive Oil (VOO). The Pros of a Fit for the Purpose Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) Procedure
Authors: Tsimidou Maria Z. , Nenadis Nikolaos , Mastralexi Aspasia , Servili Maurizio , Butinar Bojan , Vichi Stefania , Winkelmann Ole , García-González Diego Luis , Toschi Tullia Gallina
Published: July 2019

Τoward a harmonized and standardized procedure for the determination of total hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol content in virgin olive oil (VOO), the pros of a recently published in house validated ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) protocol are discussed comparatively with those of other procedures that determine directly or indirectly the compounds hosted under the health claim on “olive oil polyphenols” (EC regulation 432/2012). Authentic VOOs were analyzed with five different liquid chromatographic separation protocols and 1H-NMR one in five different laboratories with expertise in VOO phenol analysis within three months. Data comparison indicated differences in absolute values. Method comparison using appropriate tools (Passing-Bablok regression and Bland Altman analyses) for all protocols vs. the UHPLC one indicated slight or statistically significant differences. The results were also discussed in terms of cost effectiveness, detection means, standard requirements and ways to calculate the total hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol content. Findings point out that the in-house validated fit for the purpose UHPLC protocol presents certain pros that should be exploited by the interested parties. These are the simplicity of sample preparation, fast elution time that increase the number of samples analyzed per day and integration of well-resolved peaks with the aid of only two commercially available external standards. Importance of correction factors in the calculations is stressed.
Comparative Investigation for Rotten Xylem (kuqin) and Strip Types (tiaoqin) of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi Based on Fingerprinting and Chemical Pattern Recognition
Authors: Cao Xuexiao , You Guangjiao , Li Huanhuan , Li Di , Wang Meng , Ren Xiaoliang
Published: July 2019

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) is not just as a traditional herbal medicine but also a popular functional food in China and other Asian countries. A sensitive simple strategy was developed for the first time to analyze SBG from eight different geographical sources using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with multivariate chemometric methods. Two unsupervised pattern recognition models, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal components analysis (PCA), and a supervised pattern recognition model, partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), were used to analyze the chemical compositions and physical traits of SBG. The important chemical markers baicalin, baicalein, and wogonoside were analyzed quantitatively and with PLS-DA. These methods distinguished rotten xylem (kuqin) and strip types (tiaoqin) of SBG and found that the thickness of the slice had a significant impact on the classification of SBG. Two classes of strip types were identified: one as the uncut pharmaceutical, which was sectioned with a thickness >3 mm; the other as a thin-sectioned strip type, with a thickness of <2 mm. This fingerprinting technique coupled to a chemometric analysis was used for the simultaneous quantitation of three components (chemical markers) of SBG, and greatly simplified the complicated identification of the multiple components of this plant relative to traditional methods. The strategy can clearly distinguish between kuqin and tiaoqin of SBG, and suggests that the thickness of the slice can be used as the basis for evaluation of SBG. These data provide a theoretical basis and scientific evidence for the development and utilization of SBG.
Polyolefin/ZnO Composites Prepared by Melt Processing
Authors: Anžlovar Alojz , Primožič Mateja , Švab Iztok , Leitgeb Maja , Knez Željko , Žagar Ema
Published: July 2019

Composites of polyolefin matrices (HDPE and PP) were prepared by melt processing using two commercially available nano ZnO powders (Zinkoxyd aktiv and Zano 20). The mechanical and thermal properties, UV-Vis stability, and antibacterial activity of composites were studied. Tensile testing revealed that both nano ZnO types have no particular effect on the mechanical properties of HDPE composites, while some positive trends are observed for the PP-based composites, but only when Zano 20 was used as a nanofiller. Minimal changes in mechanical properties of composites are supported by an almost unaffected degree of crystallinity of polymer matrix. All polyolefin/ZnO composites exposed to artificial sunlight for 8–10 weeks show more pronounced color change than pure matrices. This effect is more evident for the HDPE than for the PP based composites. Color change also depends on the ZnO concentration and type; composites with Zano 20 show more intense color changes than those prepared with Zinkoxyd aktiv. Results of the antibacterial properties study show very high activity of polyolefin/ZnO composites against Staphylococcus aureus regardless of the ZnO surface modification, while antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli shows only the composites prepared with unmodified ZnO. This phenomenon is explained by different membrane structure of gram-positive (S. aureus) and gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria.
Effect of the Substitution Position on the Electronic and Solvatochromic Properties of Isocyanoaminonaphthalene (ICAN) Fluorophores
Authors: Kovács Sándor Lajos , Nagy Miklós , Fehér Péter Pál , Zsuga Miklós , Kéki Sándor
Published: July 2019

The properties of 1,4-isocyanoaminonaphthalene (1,4-ICAN) and 2,6-isocyanoaminonaphthalene (2,6-ICAN) isomers are discussed in comparison with those of 1,5-isocyanoaminonaphthalene (1,5-ICAN), which exhibits a large positive solvatochromic shift similar to that of Prodan. In these isocyanoaminonaphthalene derivatives, the isocyano and the amine group serve as the donor and acceptor moieties, respectively. It was found that the positions of the donor and the acceptor groups in these naphthalene derivatives greatly influence the Stokes and solvatochromic shifts, which decrease in the following order: 1,5-ICAN > 2,6-ICAN > 1,4-ICAN. According to high-level quantum chemical calculations, this order is well correlated with the charge transfer character of these compounds upon excitation. Furthermore, unlike 1,5-ICAN, the 1,4-ICAN and 2,6-ICAN isomers showed relatively high quantum yields in water, that were determined to be 0.62 and 0.21, respectively. In addition, time-resolved fluorescence experiments revealed that both the radiative and non-radiative decay rates for these three ICAN isomers varied unusually with the solvent polarity parameter ET(30). The explanations of the influence of the solvent polarity on the resulting steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence emission spectra are also discussed.
Licochalcone A Suppresses the Proliferation of Osteosarcoma Cells through Autophagy and ATM-Chk2 Activation
Authors: Shen Tai-Shan , Hsu Yung-Ken , Huang Yi-Fu , Chen Hsuan-Ying , Hsieh Cheng-Pu , Chen Chiu-Liang
Published: July 2019

Licochalcone A, a flavonoid extracted from licorice root, has been shown to exhibit broad anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anticancer, and antioxidative bioactivity. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of Licochalcone A against human osteosarcoma cell lines. The data showed that Licochalcone A significantly suppressed cell viability in MTT assay and colony formation assay in osteosarcoma cell lines. Exposure to Licochalcone A blocked cell cycle progression at the G2/M transition and induced extrinsic apoptotic pathway in osteosarcoma cell lines. Furthermore, we found the Licochalcone A exposure resulted in rapid ATM and Chk2 activation, and high levels of nuclear foci of phosphorylated Chk2 at Thr 68 site in osteosarcoma cell lines. In addition, Licochalcone A exposure significantly induced autophagy in osteosarcoma cell lines. When Licochalcone A-induced autophagy was blocked by the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine, the expression of activated caspase-3 and Annexin V positive cells were reduced, and cell viability was rescued in Licochalcone A-treated osteosarcoma cell lines. These data indicate that the activation of ATM-Chk2 checkpoint pathway and autophagy may contribute to Licochalcone A-induced anti-proliferating effect in osteosarcoma cell lines. Our findings display the possibility that Licochalcone A may serve as a potential therapeutic agent against osteosarcoma.
Gastrodia elata Blume Polysaccharides: A Review of Their Acquisition, Analysis, Modification, and Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Zhu Haodong , Liu Chen , Hou Jinjun , Long Huali , Wang Bing , Guo De’an , Lei Min , Wu Wanying
Published: July 2019

Gastrodia elata Blume (G. elata) is a valuable Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with a wide range of clinical applications. G. elata polysaccharides, as one of the main active ingredients of G. elata, have interesting extraction, purification, qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, derivatization, and pharmacological activity aspects, yet a review of G. elata polysaccharides has not yet been published. Based on this, this article summarizes the progress of G. elata polysaccharides in terms of the above aspects to provide a basis for their further research and development.
Facilitated Chromium(VI) Transport across an Ionic Liquid Membrane Impregnated with Cyphos IL102
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose
Published: July 2019

Chromium(VI) is a well-known hazardous element, thus, its removal from aqueous sources is of a general concern. Among the technologies used for the removal of this type of toxic elements, liquid membranes are gaining in importance and the same has occurred with the use of ionic liquids, considered for many, due to their properties, as green solvents. Thus, the present work joined the three previous points, presenting an experimental study about the removal of chromium(VI) by the use of a liquid membrane operation which used the commercially available Cyphos IL102 ionic liquid as a carrier. The experimental variables included: the stirring speed applied to the feed and receiving solution (a key-parameter to gain maximum transport), acid, chromium(VI), sodium hydroxide and Cyphos IL102 concentrations in their various phases. Additionally, the performance of the present system was evaluated both against the presence of other metals in solution and other carriers. The experimental results confirmed that Cyphos IL102 is a good carrier for chromium(VI) transport and, thus, its removal from aqueous streams, and it also performed well in the presence of accompanying metals and against the performance of other commercially available carriers.
Measuring Adherence: A Proof of Concept Study for Multiple Medications for Chronic Conditions in Alternative Payment Models
Authors: Farley Joel F. , Kumar Arun , Urick Benjamin Y.
Published: July 2019

Adherence to renin angiotensin system antagonists (RASA), non-insulin diabetes medications (NIDM) and statins has been included in the Medicare Star Ratings program since 2012. The long-term use of these measures emphasizes adherence to a limited number of chronic medications and may present opportunities for Part D plan sponsors to misuse the measures to influence their Medicare Part D Star Rating. It also does not capture the adherence needs of high-risk patients with multiple chronic conditions. The objective of this study was to describe the development of a new measure to capture adherence to multiple medications for chronic conditions (MMCC). The MMCC measure captures adherence to 71 different therapeutic categories of medication and was constructed using North Carolina Medicaid prescription claims data from 2015 to 2017. This measure was validated against the existing RASA, NIDM and statin adherence measures. This new measure was highly correlated with Star Rating measures, captured a greater number of eligible patients than these existing measures and had a lower proportion of patients meet the adherence threshold than the existing Star Ratings adherence measures. There is an opportunity to develop new measures, which include adherence to multiple medications in populations with multiple chronic conditions.
Mathematical Modelling of Hydrophilic Ionic Fertiliser Diffusion in Plant Cuticles: Lipophilic Surfactant Effects
Authors: Tredenick Eloise C. , Farrell Troy W. , Forster W. Alison
Published: July 2019

The global agricultural industry requires improved efficacy of sprays being applied to weeds and crops to increase financial returns and reduce environmental impact. Enhancing foliar penetration is one way to improve efficacy. Within the plant leaf, the cuticle is the most significant barrier to agrochemical diffusion. It has been noted that a comprehensive set of mechanisms for ionic active ingredient (AI) penetration through plant leaves with surfactants is not well defined, and oils that enhance penetration have been given little attention. The importance of a mechanistic mathematical model has been noted previously in the literature. Two mechanistic mathematical models have been previously developed by the authors, focusing on plant cuticle penetration of calcium chloride through tomato fruit cuticles. The models included ion binding and evaporation with hygroscopic water absorption, along with the ability to vary the AI concentration and type, relative humidity, and plant species. Here, we further develop these models to include lipophilic adjuvant effects, as well as the adsorption and desorption, of compounds on the cuticle surface with a novel Adaptive Competitive Langmuir model. These modifications to a penetration model provide a novel addition to the literature. We validate our theoretical model results against appropriate experimental data, discuss key sensitivities, and relate theoretical predictions to physical mechanisms. The results indicate the addition of the desorption mechanism may be one way to predict increased penetration at late times, and the sensitivity of model parameters compares well to those present in the literature.
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent-Assisted Pectin Extraction from Pomelo Peel Using Sonoreactor: Experimental Optimization Approach
Authors: Elgharbawy Amal , Hayyan Adeeb , Hayyan Maan , Mirghani Mohamed , Salleh Hamzah , Rashid Shahidah , Ngoh Gek , Liew Shan , Nor Mohd , bin Mohd Yusoff Mohd Yakub Zulkifli , Alias Yatimah
Published: July 2019

Background: Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) can be used for extracting a wide range of biomaterials, such as pectin. This study introduces a new generation of natural solvents for pectin extraction which could replace the conventional solvents in the food industry. Methods: In this study, NADESs were used for pectin extraction from pomelo (Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck) peels using a sonoreactor. Definitive screening design (DSD) was used to screen the influence of time, temperature, solid/liquid ratio, and NADES/water ratio on the pectin yield and degree of esterification (DE). Results: The primary screening revealed that the best choices for the extraction were choline chloride–malonic acid (ChCl-Mal) and choline chloride–glucose–water (ChCl:Glc:W). Both co-solvents yielded 94% pectin and 52% DE after optimization at 80 °C, with 60 min of sonication, pH < 3.0, and a NADES-to-water ratio of 1:4.5 (v/v). Morphological screening showed a smooth and compact surface of the pectin from ChCl-Mal where glucose-based pectin had a rough surface and lower DE. Conclusions: NADESs proved to be promising co-solvents for pectin extraction with a high degree of esterification (>55%).
Molecular Analysis of Carbon Ion-Induced Mutations in DNA Repair-Deficient Strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Matuo Youichirou , Izumi Yoshinobu , N. Sakamoto Ayako , Hase Yoshihiro , Satoh Katsuya , Shimizu Kikuo
Published: July 2019

Mutations caused by ion beams have been well-studied in plants, including ornamental flowers, rice, and algae. It has been shown that ion beams have several significantly interesting features, such as a high biological effect and unique mutation spectrum, which is in contrast to low linear energy transfer (LET) radiation such as gamma rays. In this study, the effects of double strand breaks and 8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) caused by ion-beam irradiation were examined. We irradiated repair-gene-inactive strains rad52, ogg1, and msh2 using carbon ion beams, analyzed the lethality and mutagenicity, and characterized the mutations. High-LET carbon ion-beam radiation was found to cause oxidative base damage, such as 8-oxodG, which can lead to mutations. The present observations suggested that nucleotide incorporation of oxidative damage gave only a limited effect on cell viability and genome fidelity. The ion-beam mutations occurred predominantly in 5′-ACA-3′ sequences, and we detected a hotspot at around +79 to +98 in URA3 in wild-type and mutant lines, suggesting the presence of a mutation-susceptible region.
Feminist Documentary Cinema as a Diffraction Apparatus: A Diffractive Reading of the Spanish Films, Cuidado, resbala and Yes, We Fuck!
Authors: Calderon-Sandoval Orianna , Sanchez-Espinosa Adelina
Published: July 2019

Following Karen Barad’s diffractive methodology, we encounter feminist documentary cinema as a diffraction apparatus: that is, as technologies that make part of the world intelligible to another part of the world in specific ways, by means of intra-actions between human and non-human agencies and objects of observation. We propose three analytical tools: materiality, emotionality, and performativity. In this article, we analyse two Spanish documentary films that render visible the potential of feminist documentary cinema for building alliances from and against precarity: Cuidado, resbala and Yes, We Fuck! Reading the insights and patterns raised in each case study through one another (i.e., diffractively), we discuss the intra-actions by which each of these films participates in co-creating the real. We end up describing three possible effects of feminist material-discursive practices in documentary cinema.
Higgs and BSM Studies at the LHC
Authors: Horváth Dezso
Published: July 2019

The discovery and study of the Higgs boson at the Large Hadron Collider of CERN has proven the validity of the Brout–Englert–Higgs mechanism of mass creation in the standard model via spontaneous symmetry breaking. The new results obtained by the ATLAS and CMS Collaborations at the LHC show that all measured cross-sections agree within uncertainties with the predictions of the theory. However, the standard model has obvious difficulties (nonzero neutrino masses, hierarchy problem, existence of dark matter, non-existence of antimatter galaxies, etc.), which point towards more possible violated symmetries. We first summarize the present status of the studies of the Higgs boson, including the latest results at 13 TeV p-p collision energy, then enlist some of the problems with possible solutions and the experimental situation regarding them.
Vacuum and Spacetime Signature in the Theory of Superalgebraic Spinors
Authors: Monakhov Vadim
Published: July 2019

A new formalism involving spinors in theories of spacetime and vacuum is presented. It is based on a superalgebraic formulation of the theory of algebraic spinors. New algebraic structures playing role of Dirac matrices are constructed on the basis of Grassmann variables, which we call gamma operators. Various field theory constructions are defined with use of these structures. We derive formulas for the vacuum state vector. Five operator analogs of five Dirac gamma matrices exist in the superalgebraic approach as well as two additional operator analogs of gamma matrices, which are absent in the theory of Dirac spinors. We prove that there is a relationship between gamma operators and the most important physical operators of the second quantization method: number of particles, energy–momentum and electric charge operators. In addition to them, a series of similar operators are constructed from the creation and annihilation operators, which are Lorentz-invariant analogs of Dirac matrices. However, their physical meaning is not yet clear. We prove that the condition for the existence of spinor vacuum imposes restrictions on possible variants of the signature of the four-dimensional spacetime. It can only be (1, − 1 , − 1 , − 1 ), and there are two additional axes corresponding to the inner space of the spinor, with a signature ( − 1 , − 1 ). Developed mathematical formalism allows one to obtain the second quantization operators in a natural way. Gauge transformations arise due to existence of internal degrees of freedom of superalgebraic spinors. These degrees of freedom lead to existence of nontrivial affine connections. Proposed approach opens perspectives for constructing a theory in which the properties of spacetime have the same algebraic nature as the momentum, electromagnetic field and other quantum fields.
Effects of Age and Environment on Adaptive Immune Responses to Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) Vaccination in Dairy Goats in Relation to Paratuberculosis Control Strategies
Authors: Koets Ad , Ravesloot Lars , Ruuls Robin , Dinkla Annemieke , Eisenberg Susanne , Lievaart-Peterson Karianne
Published: July 2019

Paratuberculosis infection is caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). In the Netherlands, 75% herd level prevalence of caprine paratuberculosis has been estimated, and vaccination is the principal control strategy applied. Most goat dairy farms with endemic paratuberculosis systematically vaccinate goat kids in the first months of life with a commercially available whole cell MAP vaccine. We hypothesized that the development of adaptive immune responses in goats vaccinated at young age depends on the environment they are raised in, and this has implications for the application of immune diagnostic tests in vaccinated dairy goats. We evaluated the early immune response to vaccination in young goat kids sourced from a MAP unsuspected non-vaccinated herd and raised in a MAP-free environment. Subsequently we compared these with responses observed in birth year and vaccination matched adult goats raised on farms with endemic paratuberculosis. Results indicated that initial adaptive immune responses to vaccination are limited in a MAP-free environment. In addition, adult antibody positive vaccinated goats raised in a MAP endemic environment are less likely to be IS900 PCR-positive as compared to antibody negative herd mates. We conclude that test-and-cull strategies in a vaccinated herd are currently not feasible using available immune diagnostic tests.
SEPAKBOLA SEBAGAI MEDIA SOLIDARITAS POLITIK BAGI SUPPORTER INDONESIA
Authors: Perdana Kiki Esa
Published: July 2019

So far football has not only functioned as a sport but also as a medium of solidarity for supporters, Indonesia is a country with the largest Islamic religion in the world. While many other Islamic countries are still struggling with the problem of war, football believe, its is able to be a medium a solidarity. Message for the victims of war, prayers and solidarity messages are sent through. This research uses descriptive analysis with case studies of Rohingya and Palestinian cases in Indonesian football supporter. This research concludes that the message conveyed by Indonesian supporters. The conclusion, football is possible in becoming tools for political solidarity
PENGARUH KREDIBILITAS INFLUENCER TERHADAP SIKAP PADA MEREK
Authors: Sugiharto Shiya Azi , Ramadhana Maulana Rezi
Published: July 2019

One way to promote the brand and to increase awareness to the public is to use influencers, and one of the influencersused by Maybelline is Tasya Farasya. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of influencer credibility onattitudes on the Maybelline brand. In addition, this study also aims to determine the credibility factors of influencersthat most influence attitudes on the Maybelline brand. This research uses descriptive correlational method using aquantitative approach. This study uses a simple linear regression method because there is one independent variable andone dependent variable. The population in this study were female students of the Telkom University Faculty ofCommunication and Business who had watched and or followed a video made by Tasya Farasya regarding Maybellineproducts. The number of samples used in this study were 100 respondents.In this study has a positive effect between the variable credibility of influencer (X) on the attitude variable on the brand(Y) on the Maybelline brand. This is evidenced by hypothesis testing using the - t test. The data produces that the valuet_count (7.334)> t_ (table) (1.984). The credibility factor of influencers that most influences attitudes towards brand isattractiveness.