bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Hepatocyte Growth Factor for Acute Spinal Cord Injury: The Road from Basic Studies to Human Treatment
Authors: Kitamura Kazuya , Nagoshi Narihito , Tsuji Osahiko , Matsumoto Morio , Okano Hideyuki , Nakamura Masaya
Published: March 2019

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was first identified as a potent mitogen for mature hepatocytes, and has also gained attention as a strong neurotrophic factor in the central nervous system. We found that during the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats, c-Met, the specific receptor for HGF, increases sharply, while the endogenous HGF up-regulation is relatively weak. Introducing exogenous HGF into the spinal cord by injecting an HGF-expressing viral vector significantly increased the neuron and oligodendrocyte survival, angiogenesis, and axonal regeneration, to reduce the area of damage and to promote functional recovery in rats after SCI. Other recent studies in rodents have shown that exogenously administered HGF during the acute phase of SCI reduces astrocyte activation to decrease glial scar formation, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects to reduce leukocyte infiltration. We also reported that the intrathecal infusion of recombinant human HGF (intrathecal rhHGF) improves neurological hand function after cervical contusive SCI in the common marmoset, a non-human primate. Based on these collective results, we conducted a phase I/II clinical trial of intrathecal rhHGF for patients with acute cervical SCI who showed a modified Frankel grade of A/B1/B2 72 h after injury onset, from June 2014 to May 2018.
Identification of Two Novel R2R3-MYB Transcription factors, PsMYB114L and PsMYB12L, Related to Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Paeonia suffruticosa
Authors: Zhang Xinpeng , Xu Zongda , Yu Xiaoyan , Zhao Lanyong , Zhao Mingyuan , Han Xu , Qi Shuai
Published: March 2019

Flower color is a charming phenotype with very important ornamental and commercial values. Anthocyanins play a critical role in determining flower color pattern formation, and their biosynthesis is typically regulated by R2R3-MYB transcription factors (TFs). Paeonia suffruticosa is a famous ornamental plant with colorful flowers. However, little is known about the R2R3-MYB TFs that regulate anthocyanin accumulation in P. suffruticosa. In the present study, two R2R3-MYB TFs, namely, PsMYB114L and PsMYB12L, were isolated from the petals of P. suffruticosa ‘Shima Nishiki’ and functionally characterized. Sequence analysis suggested that PsMYB114L contained a bHLH-interaction motif, whereas PsMYB12L contained two flavonol-specific motifs (SG7 and SG7-2). Subsequently, the in vivo function of PsMYB114L and PsMYB12L was investigated by their heterologous expression in Arabidopsis thaliana and apple calli. In transgenic Arabidopsis plants, overexpression of PsMYB114L and of PsMYB12L caused a significantly higher accumulation of anthocyanins, resulting in purple-red leaves. Transgenic apple calli overexpressing PsMYB114L and PsMYB12L also significantly enhanced the anthocyanins content and resulted in a change in the callus color to red. Meanwhile, gene expression analysis in A. thaliana and apple calli suggested that the expression levels of the flavonol synthase (MdFLS) and anthocyanidin reductase (MdANR) genes were significantly downregulated and the dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (AtDFR) and anthocyanin synthase (AtANS) genes were significantly upregulated in transgenic lines of PsMYB114L. Moreover, the expression level of the FLS gene (MdFLS) was significantly downregulated and the DFR (AtDFR/MdDFR) and ANS (AtANS/MdANS) genes were all significantly upregulated in transgenic lines plants of PsMYB12L. These results indicate that PsMYB114L and PsMYB12L both enhance anthocyanin accumulation by specifically regulating the expression of some anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes in different plant species. Together, these results provide a valuable resource with which to further study the regulatory mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis in P. suffruticosa and for the breeding of tree peony cultivars with novel and charming flower colors.
Transcriptional and Post-transcriptional Regulation of Organellar Gene Expression (OGE) and Its Roles in Plant Salt Tolerance
Authors: Robles Pedro , Quesada Víctor
Published: March 2019

Given their endosymbiotic origin, chloroplasts and mitochondria genomes harbor only between 100 and 200 genes that encode the proteins involved in organellar gene expression (OGE), photosynthesis, and the electron transport chain. However, as the activity of these organelles also needs a few thousand proteins encoded by the nuclear genome, a close coordination of the gene expression between the nucleus and organelles must exist. In line with this, OGE regulation is crucial for plant growth and development, and is achieved mainly through post-transcriptional mechanisms performed by nuclear genes. In this way, the nucleus controls the activity of organelles and these, in turn, transmit information about their functional state to the nucleus by modulating nuclear expression according to the organelles’ physiological requirements. This adjusts organelle function to plant physiological, developmental, or growth demands. Therefore, OGE must appropriately respond to both the endogenous signals and exogenous environmental cues that can jeopardize plant survival. As sessile organisms, plants have to respond to adverse conditions to acclimate and adapt to them. Salinity is a major abiotic stress that negatively affects plant development and growth, disrupts chloroplast and mitochondria function, and leads to reduced yields. Information on the effects that the disturbance of the OGE function has on plant tolerance to salinity is still quite fragmented. Nonetheless, many plant mutants which display altered responses to salinity have been characterized in recent years, and interestingly, several are affected in nuclear genes encoding organelle-localized proteins that regulate the expression of organelle genes. These results strongly support a link between OGE and plant salt tolerance, likely through retrograde signaling. Our review analyzes recent findings on the OGE functions required by plants to respond and tolerate salinity, and highlights the fundamental role that chloroplast and mitochondrion homeostasis plays in plant adaptation to salt stress.
iPS-Cell Technology and the Problem of Genetic Instability—Can It Ever Be Safe for Clinical Use?
Authors: Attwood Stephen W. , Edel Michael J.
Published: March 2019

The use of induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSC) as a source of autologous tissues shows great promise in regenerative medicine. Nevertheless, several major challenges remain to be addressed before iPSC-derived cells can be used in therapy, and experience of their clinical use is extremely limited. In this review, the factors affecting the safe translation of iPSC to the clinic are considered, together with an account of efforts being made to overcome these issues. The review draws upon experiences with pluripotent stem-cell therapeutics, including clinical trials involving human embryonic stem cells and the widely transplanted mesenchymal stem cells. The discussion covers concerns relating to: (i) the reprogramming process; (ii) the detection and removal of incompletely differentiated and pluripotent cells from the resulting medicinal products; and (iii) genomic and epigenetic changes, and the evolutionary and selective processes occurring during culture expansion, associated with production of iPSC-therapeutics. In addition, (iv) methods for the practical culture-at-scale and standardization required for routine clinical use are considered. Finally, (v) the potential of iPSC in the treatment of human disease is evaluated in the light of what is known about the reprogramming process, the behavior of cells in culture, and the performance of iPSC in pre-clinical studies.
The Effectiveness of Exercise on Cognitive Performance in Individuals with Known Vascular Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brunt Alyssa , Albines David , Hopkins-Rosseel Diana
Published: March 2019

Patients with known vascular disease are at increased risk for cognitive impairments. Exercise has been shown to improve cognition in healthy elderly populations and those with mild cognitive impairments. We explored the literature to understand exercise as a modality to improve cognition in those with vascular disease, focusing on dose-responses. A systematic review was conducted through 2017 using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane, Ovid Embase, and Ovid MEDLINE databases. Eligible studies examined effects of exercise on memory and cognition in cardiovascular (CVD) or cerebrovascular disease (CBVD). Data extracted included group characteristics, exercise dosage and outcomes measures employed. Twenty-two studies (12 CVD, 10 CBVD) met the inclusion criteria. Interventions included aerobic, resistance, or mixed training, with neuropsychological test batteries assessing cognition. In CVD populations, five studies demonstrated improved cardiovascular fitness and cognition with aerobic training, and another seven studies suggested a dose-response. In CBVD trials, four studies reported improved cognition, with no effects observed in the fifth study. Another study found enhanced cognition with resistance training and four demonstrated a positive association between functional capacity and cognition following combined aerobic and resistance training. Exercise is able to positively affect cognitive performance in those with known vascular disease. There is evidence to suggest a dose–response relationship. Further research is required to optimize prescription.
Mitochondrial Disease (MELAS Syndrome) Discovered at the Start of Pregnancy in a Patient with Advanced CKD: A Clinical and Ethical Challenge
Authors: Santoro Domenico , Di Bella Gianluca , Toscano Antonio , Musumeci Olimpia , Buemi Michele , Piccoli Giorgina Barbara
Published: March 2019

Pregnancy is a challenge in the life of a woman with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but also represents an occasion for physicians to make or reconsider diagnosis of kidney disease. Counselling is particularly challenging in cases in which a genetic disease with a heterogeneous and unpredictable phenotype is discovered in pregnancy. The case reported regards a young woman with Stage-4 CKD, in which “Mitochondrial Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes” (MELAS syndrome), was diagnosed during an unplanned pregnancy. A 31-year-old Caucasian woman, being followed for Stage-4 CKD, sought her nephrologist’s advice at the start of an unplanned pregnancy. Her most recent data included serum creatinine 2–2.2 mg/dL, Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 50 mg/dL, creatinine clearance 20–25 mL/min, proteinuria at about 2 g/day, and mild hypertension which was well controlled by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi); her body mass index (BMI) was 21 kg/m2 (height 152 cm, weight 47.5 kg). Her medical history was characterized by non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (at the age of 25), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. The patient’s mother was diabetic and had mild CKD. Mild hearing impairment and cardiac hypertrophy were also detected, thus leading to suspect a mitochondrial disease (i.e., MELAS syndrome), subsequently confirmed by genetic analysis. The presence of advanced CKD, hypertension, and proteinuria is associated with a high, but difficult to quantify, risk of preterm delivery and progression of kidney damage in the mother; MELAS syndrome is per se associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia. Preterm delivery, associated with neurological impairment and low nephron number can worsen the prognosis of MELAS in an unpredictable way. This case underlines the importance of pregnancy as an occasion to detect CKD and reconsider diagnosis. It also suggests that mitochondrial disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of kidney impairment in patients who display an array of other signs and symptoms, mainly type-2 diabetes, kidney disease, and vascular problems, and highlights the difficulties encountered in counselling and the need for further studies on CKD in pregnancy.
Six-Month Color Stability Assessment of Two Calcium Silicate-Based Cements Used in Regenerative Endodontic Procedures
Authors: Palma Paulo J. , Marques Joana A. , Falacho Rui I. , Correia Eder , Vinagre Alexandra , Santos João Miguel , Ramos João C.
Published: March 2019

Aim: The purpose of the present study is to assess the color stability of two calcium silicate-based cements (CSCs) used in regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs). Methods: A total of 40 acrylic single-rooted transparent teeth, with immature apex, were used. Root canals were filled up to 3 mm below the level of the cementoenamel junction, with either saline solution (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA)/saline and Biodentine/saline) or blood (MTA/blood and Biodentine/blood). Subsequently, ProRoot MTA® or BiodentineTM was placed in the root canal to create a cervical barrier. Color measurement was carried out at four different evaluation periods (3 h, 72 h, 7 days, and 6 months). Shade analysis within the L* a* b* color space was performed and color variation (∆E) calculated. The significance level for statistical analysis was set at p < 0.05. Results: The four groups showed a significant decrease in L* values over time. The ΔE value increased over time for all groups but was not statistically significant for the Biodentine/blood group. Two-way ANOVA showed no interaction between the CSC and treatment (contact with saline solution or blood). CSC used was the factor responsible for ΔE over time, inducing statistically significant color variations from T3H to T7D (p = 0.04) and T3H to T6M (p < 0.01). After 6 months, MTA/saline had 5.08 (p = 0.001) higher ΔE than Biodentine/Saline and the MTA/blood had 3.65 (p = 0.009) higher than Biodentine/blood. Conclusions: After 6 months, regardless of blood exposure, Biodentine exhibits superior color stability compared to MTA. Biodentine might be a suitable alternative to MTA as a cervical barrier material in REPs.
Molecular Diversity Required for the Formation of Autocatalytic Sets
Authors: Hordijk Wim , Steel Mike , Kauffman Stuart A.
Published: March 2019

Systems chemistry deals with the design and study of complex chemical systems. However, such systems are often difficult to investigate experimentally. We provide an example of how theoretical and simulation-based studies can provide useful insights into the properties and dynamics of complex chemical systems, in particular of autocatalytic sets. We investigate the issue of the required molecular diversity for autocatalytic sets to exist in random polymer libraries. Given a fixed probability that an arbitrary polymer catalyzes the formation of other polymers, we calculate this required molecular diversity theoretically for two particular models of chemical reaction systems, and then verify these calculations by computer simulations. We also argue that these results could be relevant to an origin of life scenario proposed recently by Damer and Deamer.
Spherical Composite Powder by Coupling Polymethyl Methacrylate and Boron Nitride via Spray Drying for Cosmetic Application
Authors: Su Cherng-Yuh , Wang Jia-Chang , Chen Chih-Yuan , Chu Kent , Lin Chung-Kwei
Published: March 2019

In the present study, spherical composite powder was successfully prepared via spray drying process using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) powders. The pristine and as-prepared composite powders were examined using scanning electron microscopy, a particle size analyzer, oil absorption, and specific surface area analyses. These powders were then mixed with linseed oil to prepare samples for UV-Visible-Near Infrared spectroscopy investigation to determine their light absorption ability. Blank and powder-added blemish balm creams were examined using a sun protection factor tester and a thermal conductivity tester. In addition, transmittances of these creams were also evaluated. The experimental results show that spray-dried spherical composite powder exhibited good oil absorption ability. The blemish balm cream with 10 wt.% spray-dried composite powder not only exhibited superior sunscreen protection ability, but also good thermal conductivity.
Overview and Future Advanced Engineering Applications for Morphing Surfaces by Shape Memory Alloy Materials
Authors: Sellitto Andrea , Riccio Aniello
Published: March 2019

The development of structures able to autonomously change their characteristics in response to an external simulation is considered a promising research field. Indeed, these structures, called smart structures, can be adopted to improve the aerodynamic performance of air and land vehicles. In this work, an overview and future applications of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA)-based smart structures are presented. The use of SMA materials seems to be very promising in several engineering sectors. Advanced SMA-based devices, designed to improve the aerodynamic performance of vehicles by modifying the shape of the spoiler and the rear upper panel, are briefly introduced and discussed in this paper. Indeed, a simplified model simulating the SMA mechanical behavior has been considered to demonstrate the feasibility of the introduced smart structures for adaptive aerodynamic applications. Numerical simulations of the investigated structures are provided as a justification of the proposed designs.
Solvothermal Preparation and Electrochemical Characterization of Cubic ZrO2 Nanoparticles/Highly Reduced Graphene (HRG) based Nanocomposites
Authors: Shaik Mohammed , Alam Manawwer , Adil Syed , Kuniyil Mufsir , Al-Warthan Abdulrahman , Siddiqui Mohammed , Tahir Muhammad , Labis Joselito , Khan Mujeeb
Published: March 2019

A single-step solvothermal approach to prepare stabilized cubic zirconia (ZrO2) nanoparticles (NPs) and highly reduced graphene oxide (HRG) and ZrO2 nanocomposite (HRG@ZrO2) using benzyl alcohol as a solvent and stabilizing ligand is presented. The as-prepared ZrO2 NPs and the HRG@ZrO2 nanocomposite were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the formation of ultra-small, cubic phase ZrO2 NPs with particle sizes of ~2 nm in both reactions. Slight variation of reaction conditions, including temperature and amount of benzyl alcohol, significantly affected the size of resulting NPs. The presence of benzyl alcohol as a stabilizing agent on the surface of ZrO2 NPs was confirmed using various techniques such as ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), Raman and XPS spectroscopies and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, a comparative electrochemical study of both as-prepared ZrO2 NPs and the HRG@ZrO2 nanocomposites is reported. The HRG@ZrO2 nanocomposite confirms electronic interactions between ZrO2 and HRG when compared their electrochemical studies with pure ZrO2 and HRG using cyclic voltammetry (CV).
Finite Element Analysis and Statistical Optimization of End-Burr in Turning AA2024
Authors: Asad Muhammad , Ijaz Hassan , Saleem Waqas , Mahfouz Abdullah S.B. , Ahmad Zeshan , Mabrouki Tarek
Published: March 2019

This contribution presents three-dimensional turning operation simulations exploiting the capabilities of finite element (FE) based software Abaqus/Explicit. Coupled temperature-displacement simulations for orthogonal cutting on an aerospace grade aluminum alloy AA2024-T351 with the conceived numerical model have been performed. Numerically computed results of cutting forces have been substantiated with the experimental data. Research work aims to contribute in comprehension of the end-burr formation process in orthogonal cutting. Multi-physical phenomena like crack propagation, evolution of shear zones (positive and negative), pivot-point appearance, thermal softening, etc., effecting burr formation for varying cutting parameters have been highlighted. Additionally, quantitative predictions of end burr lengths with foot type chip formation on the exit edge of the machined workpiece for various cutting parameters including cutting speed, feed rate, and tool rake angles have been made. Onwards, to investigate the influence of each cutting parameter on burr lengths and to find optimum values of cutting parameters statistical analyses using Taguchi’s design of experiment (DOE) technique and response surface methodology (RSM) have been performed. Investigations show that feed has a major impact, while cutting speed has the least impact in burr formation. Furthermore, it has been found that the early appearance of the pivot-point on the exit edge of the workpiece surface results in larger end-burr lengths. Results of statistical analyses have been successfully correlated with experimental findings in published literature.
Synthesis of Tribological WS2 Powder from WO3 Prepared by Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis (USP)
Authors: Gajić Nataša , Kamberović Željko , Anđić Zoran , Trpčevská Jarmila , Plešingerova Beatrice , Korać Marija
Published: March 2019

This paper describes the synthesis of tungsten disulfide (WS2) powder by the sulfurization of tungsten trioxide (WO3) particles in the presence of additive potassium carbonate (K2CO3) in nitrogen (N2) atmosphere, first at lower temperature (200 °C) and followed by reduction at higher temperature (900 °C). In addition, the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis of ammonium meta-tungstate hydrate (AMT) was used for the production of WO3 particles at 650 °C in air. The HSC Chemistry® software package 9.0 was used for the analysis of chemistry and thermodynamic parameters of the processes for WS2 powder synthesis. The crystalline structure and phase composition of all synthesized powders were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The morphology and chemical composition of these samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX).
Advances in Microalloyed Steels
Authors: Uranga Pello
Published: March 2019

Microalloyed steels are one of the core alloy steels in the development of modern advanced high-strength steels [...]
Modulation of Polar Lipid Profiles in Chlorella sp. in Response to Nutrient Limitation
Authors: White Daniel A. , Rooks Paul A. , Kimmance Susan , Tait Karen , Jones Mark , Tarran Glen A. , Cook Charlotte , Llewellyn Carole A.
Published: March 2019

We evaluate the effects of nutrient limitation on cellular composition of polar lipid classes/species in Chlorella sp. using modern polar lipidomic profiling methods (liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry; LC-MS/MS). Total polar lipid concentration was highest in nutrient-replete (HN) cultures with a significant reduction in monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylcholine (PC), and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) class concentrations for nutrient-deplete (LN) cultures. Moreover, reductions in the abundance of MGDG relative to total polar lipids versus an increase in the relative abundance of digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG) were recorded in LN cultures. In HN cultures, polar lipid species composition remained relatively constant throughout culture with high degrees of unsaturation associated with acyl moieties. Conversely, in LN cultures lipid species composition shifted towards greater saturation of acyl moieties. Multivariate analyses revealed that changes in the abundance of a number of species contributed to the dissimilarity between LN and HN cultures but with dominant effects from certain species, e.g., reduction in MGDG 34:7 (18:3/16:4). Results demonstrate that Chlorella sp. significantly alters its polar lipidome in response to nutrient limitation, and this is discussed in terms of physiological significance and polar lipids production for applied microalgal production systems.
Correction: González-Partida, E.; Camprubí, A.; Carrillo-Chávez, A.; Díaz-Carreño, E.H.; González-Ruiz, L.E.; Farfán-Panamá, J.L.; Cienfuegos-Alvarado, E.; Morales-Puente, P.; Vázquez-Ramírez, J.T. Giant Fluorite Mineralization in Central Mexico by Means of Exceptionally Low Salinity Fluids: An Unusual Style among MVT Deposits. Minerals 2019, 9, 35
Authors: González-Partida Eduardo , Camprubí Antoni , Carrillo-Chávez Alejandro , Díaz-Carreño Erik H. , González-Ruiz Luis E. , Farfán-Panamá José L. , Cienfuegos-Alvarado Edith , Morales-Puente Pedro , Vázquez-Ramírez Juan T.
Published: March 2019

The authors make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Mechanical Characteristics and Failure Prediction of Cement Mortar with a Sandwich Structure
Authors: Liu Xuesheng , Gu Qingheng , Tan Yunliang , Ning Jianguo , Jia Zhichuang
Published: March 2019

It is necessary to master the mechanical properties and failure prediction of the composite of mortar and rock block in a mined-out area. In this study, uniaxial compression and acoustic emission (AE) synchronous tests of mortar specimens with different sandwich materials and cement–sand ratios were carried out. The results showed that the compressive strength and elastic modulus of mortar specimens increased with an increase in the cement–sand ratio and the stiffness of the sandwich material. The AE counts and energy of mortar specimens with a high-stiffness sandwich material were maximum when they were destroyed. The b value, a number that reflects the extent of fracture propagation, decreased first and then increased with the increase in strain. The inflection point of the b value can be taken as the indication of the imminent failure of the mortar. A method for determining the b value at the turning point was proposed and verified.
Acquisition and Processing of Wider Bandwidth Seismic Data in Crystalline Crust: Progress with the Metal Earth Project
Authors: Naghizadeh Mostafa , Snyder David , Cheraghi Saeid , Foster Steven , Cilensek Samo , Floreani Elvis , Mackie Jeff
Published: March 2019

The Metal Earth project acquired 927 km of deep seismic reflection profiles from August to November of 2017. Seismic data acquired in this early stage of the Metal Earth project benefited greatly from recent advances in the petroleum sector as well as those in mineral exploration. Vibroseis acquisition with receivers having a 5 Hz response (10 dB down) generated records from a sweep signal starting at 2 Hz, sweeping up to 150 Hz or 200 Hz. Not only does this broadband signal enhance reflections from the deepest to the shallowest crust, but it also helps the use of full waveform inversion (e.g., to mitigate cycle-skipping) and related techniques. Metal Earth regional-scale transects using over 5000 active sensors target mineralizing fluid pathways throughout the crust, whereas higher spatial-resolution reflection and full-waveform surveys target structures at mine camp scales. Because Metal Earth was proposed to map and compare entire Archean ore and geologically similar non-ore systems, regional sections cover the entire crust to the Moho in the Abitibi and Wabigoon greenstone belts of the Superior craton in central Canada. Where the new sections overlap with previous Lithoprobe surveys, a clear improvement in reflector detection and definition is observed. Improvements are here attributed to the increased bandwidth of the signal, better estimates of refraction and reflection velocities used in processing, and especially the pre-stack time migration of the data.
Heavy Minerals for Junior Woodchucks
Authors: Garzanti Eduardo , Andò Sergio
Published: March 2019

In the last two centuries, since the dawn of modern geology, heavy minerals have been used to investigate sediment provenance and for many other scientific or practical applications. Not always, however, with the correct approach. Difficulties are diverse, not just technical and related to the identification of tiny grains, but also procedural and conceptual. Even the definition of “heavy minerals” is elusive, and possibly impossible. Sampling is critical. In many environments (e.g., beaches), both absolute and relative heavy mineral abundances invariably increase or decrease locally to different degrees owing to hydraulic-sorting processes, so that samples close to "neutral composition" are hard to obtain. Several widely shared opinions are misleading. Choosing a narrow size-window for analysis leads to increased bias, not to increased accuracy or precision. Only point-counting provides real volume percentages, whereas grain-counting distorts results in favor of smaller minerals. This paper also briefly reviews the heavy mineral associations typically found in diverse plate-tectonic settings. A mineralogical assemblage, however, only reproduces the mineralogy of source rocks, which does not correlate univocally with the geodynamic setting in which those source rocks were formed and assembled. Moreover, it is affected by environmental bias, and by diagenetic bias on top in the case of ancient sandstones. One fruitful way to extract information on both provenance and sedimentological processes is to look for anomalies in mineralogical–textural relationships (e.g., denser minerals bigger than lower-density minerals; harder minerals better rounded than softer minerals; less durable minerals increasing with stratal age and stratigraphic depth). To minimize mistakes, it is necessary to invariably combine heavy mineral investigations with the petrographic analysis of bulk sand. Analysis of thin sections allows us to see also those source rocks that do not shed significant amounts of heavy minerals, such as limestone or granite, and helps us to assess heavy mineral concentration, the “outer” message carrying the key to decipher the “inner message” contained in the heavy mineral suite. The task becomes thorny indeed when dealing with samples with strong diagenetic overprint, which is, unfortunately, the case of most ancient sandstones. Diagenesis is the Moloch that devours all grains that are not chemically resistant, leaving a meager residue difficult or even impossible to interpret when diagenetic effects accumulate through multiple sedimentary cycles. We have conceived this friendly little handbook to help the student facing these problems, hoping that it may serve the purpose.
Liposomal Curcumin is Better than Curcumin to Alleviate Complications in Experimental Diabetic Mellitus
Authors: Bulboacă Adriana Elena , Porfire Alina S. , Tefas Lucia R. , Boarescu Paul Mihai , Bolboacă Sorana D. , Stănescu Ioana C. , Bulboacă Angelo Corneliu , Dogaru Gabriela
Published: March 2019

Curcumin (CC) is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties and has already been tested for its efficiency in different diseases including diabetes mellitus (DM). New formulations and route administration were designed to obtain products with higher bioavailability. Our study aimed to test the effect of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of liposomal curcumin (lCC) as pre-treatment in streptozotocin(STZ)-induced DM in rats on oxidative stress, liver, and pancreatic functional parameters. Forty-two Wistar-Bratislava rats were randomly divided into six groups (seven animals/group): control (no diabetes), control-STZ (STZ-induced DM —60 mg/100g body weight a single dose intraperitoneal administration, and no CC pre-treatment), two groups with DM and CC pre-treatment (1mg/100g bw—STZ + CC1, 2 mg/100g bw—STZ + CC2), and two groups with DM and lCC pre-treatment (1 mg/100g bw—STZ + lCC1, 2 mg/100g bw—STZ + lCC1). Intraperitoneal administration of Curcumin in diabetic rats showed a significant reduction of nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, total oxidative stress, and catalase for both evaluated formulations (CC and lCC) compared to control group (p < 0.005), with higher efficacy of lCC formulation compared to CC solution (p < 0.002, excepting catalase for STZ + CC2vs. STZ + lCC1when p = 0.0845). The CC and lCC showed hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic effects, a decrease in oxidative stress and improvement in anti-oxidative capacity status against STZ-induced DM in rats (p < 0.002). The lCC also proved better efficacy on MMP-2, and -9 plasma levels as compared to CC (p < 0.003, excepting STZ + CC2 vs. STZ + lCC1 comparison with p = 0.0553). The lCC demonstrated significantly better efficacy as compared to curcumin solution on all serum levels of the investigated markers, sustaining its possible use as adjuvant therapy in DM.
Mechanosynthesis of Photochromic Oligophenyleneimines: Optical, Electrochemical and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Amado-Briseño Miguel Angel , Zárate-Hernández Luis Ángel , Alemán-Ayala Karina , Coreño Alonso Oscar , Cruz-Borbolla Julián , Vásquez-Pérez José Manuel , Reyes-Cruz Víctor Esteban , Veloz-Rodríguez María Aurora , Rueda-Soriano Esteban , Pandiyan Thangarasu , Vázquez-García Rosa Angeles
Published: March 2019

In this work, two oligophenyleneimines type pentamers with terminal aldehydes, designated as DAFCHO (4,4′-((((((2,5-bis(octyloxy)-1,4-phenylene)bis(methanylylidene))bis(azanyl ylidene))bis(9H-fluorene-7,2-diyl))bis(azanylylidene))bis(methanylylidene))bis(2,5-bis(octyloxy) benzaldehyde)) and FDACHO (4,4′-((((((2,5-bis(octyloxy)-1,4-phenylene)bis(methanylylidene))bis (azanylylidene))bis(4,1-phenylene))bis(azanylylidene))bis(methanylylidene))bis(2,5-bis(octyloxy) benzaldehyde)) were synthesized by mechanochemistry method using 2,5-bis(octyloxy) terephtal aldehyde and 2,7-diaminofluorene or 1,4-phenylenediamine. All compounds were spectroscopically characterized using 1H and 13C-NMR, FT-IR and mass spectrometry MALDITOF. The optical properties of the compounds were analyzed by UV-vis spectroscopy using different solvents. We observed that DAFCHO and FDACHO exhibit interesting photochromic properties when they are dissolved in chloroform and exposed to sunlight for 3, 5 and 10 min. The value of the energy band gap was calculated from the absorption spectra without irradiation Egap(optical). It was 2.50 eV for DAFCHO in chloroform solution, and it decreased to 2.34 eV when it is in films. For FDACHO, it was 2.41 eV in solution and 2.27 eV in film. HOMO (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital), LUMO (Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital) and Egap(electrochemical) values were obtained by electrochemical studies. The results indicate that the compounds can be considered as organic semiconductors since their values are 2.35 eV for DAFCHO and 2.06 eV for FDACHO. The structural and electronic properties of the compounds were corroborated with a DFT (Density Functional Theory) study.
New Caffeoylquinic Acid Derivatives and Flavanone Glycoside from the Flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium and Their Bioactivities
Authors: Yang Peng-Fei , Yang Ya-Nan , He Chun-Yu , Chen Zhi-Fei , Yuan Qi-Shan , Zhao Sheng-Chen , Fu Yu-Feng , Zhang Pei-Cheng , Mao Duo-Bin
Published: March 2019

The Chrysanthemum morifolium flower is widely used in China and Japan as a food, beverage, and medicine for many diseases. In our work, two new caffeoylquinic acid derivatives (1, 2), a new flavanone glycoside (3), and six reported flavanones (4–9) were isolated and identified from the flowers of C. morifolium. The chemical structures of all isolates were elucidated by the analysis of comprehensive spectroscopic data as well as by comparison with previously reported data. The isolated constituents 1–8 were evaluated for their neuroprotective activity, and compounds 3 and 4 displayed neuroprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells.
Cytotoxic Properties of Damiana (Turnera diffusa) Extracts and Constituents and A Validated Quantitative UHPLC-DAD Assay
Authors: Willer Johanna , Jöhrer Karin , Greil Richard , Zidorn Christian , Çiçek Serhat Sezai
Published: March 2019

In our continuing search for new cytotoxic agents, we assayed extracts, fractions, and pure compounds from damiana (Turnera diffusa) against multiple myeloma (NCI-H929, U266, and MM1S) cell lines. After a first liquid-liquid solvent extraction, the ethyl acetate layer of an acetone (70%) crude extract was identified as the most active fraction. Further separation of the active fraction led to the isolation of naringenin (1), three apigenin coumaroyl glucosides 2–4, and five flavone aglycones 5–9. Naringenin (1) and apigenin 7-O-(4″-O-p-E-coumaroyl)-glucoside (4) showed significant cytotoxic effects against the tested myeloma cell lines. Additionally, we established a validated ultra-high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD) method for the quantification of the isolated components in the herb and in traditional preparations of T. diffusa.
Preparation of Polysaccharides from Ramulus mori, and Their Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Yu Wansha , Chen Hu , Xiang Zhonghuai , He Ningjia
Published: March 2019

The extraction of Ramulus mori polysaccharides (RMPs) was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal process conditions, which gave the highest yield of RMPs (6.25%) were 80 °C, 50 min, and a solid–liquid ratio of 1:40 (g/mL), with the extraction performed twice. The RMPs contained seven monosaccharides, namely, mannose, rhamnose; glucuronic acid, glucose, xylose, galactose, and arabinose, in a 1.36:2.68:0.46:328.17:1.53:21.80:6.16 molar ratio. The glass transition and melting temperatures of RMPs were 83 and 473 °C, respectively. RMPs were α-polysaccharides and had surfaces that resembled a porous sponge, as observed by scanning electron microscopy. RMPs inhibited the proliferation of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and showed antioxidant activity (assessed by three different methods), although it was generally weaker than that of vitamin C. RMPs showed anti-inflammatory activity in a concentration-dependent manner. This study provides a basis for exploring the potential uses of RMPs.
Anti-Idiotype DNA Aptamer Affinity Purification–High-Temperature Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography: A Simple, Accurate, and Selective Bioanalysis of Bevacizumab
Authors: Yamada Tomohiro , Saito Taro , Shimizu Yutaka , Tsukakoshi Kaori , Hayashi Hideki , Mizuno Hajime , Tsuji Daiki , Yamamoto Keisuke , Itoh Kunihiko , Toyo’oka Toshimasa , Ikebukuro Kazunori , Todoroki Kenichiro
Published: March 2019

This study presents a simple, accurate, and selective bioanalytical method of bevacizumab detection from plasma samples based on aptamer affinity purification–high-temperature reversed-phased liquid chromatography (HT-RPLC) with fluorescence detection. Bevacizumab in plasma samples was purified using magnetic beads immobilized with an anti-idiotype DNA aptamer for bevacizumab. The purified bevacizumab was separated with HT-RPLC and detected with its native fluorescence. Using aptamer affinity beads, bevacizumab was selectively purified and detected as a single peak in the chromatogram. HT-RPLC achieved good separation for bevacizumab with a sharp peak within 10 min. The calibration curves of the two monoclonal antibodies ranged from 1 to 50 μg/mL and showed good correlation coefficients (r2 > 0.999). The limit of detection (LOD) and lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) values for bevacizumab were 0.15 and 0.51 μg/mL, respectively. The proposed method was successfully applied to the bioanalysis of the plasma samples obtained from the patients with lung cancer and may be extended to plan optimal therapeutic programs and for the evaluation of biological equivalencies in the development of biosimilars.
Rapid Self-Assembly of Metal/Polymer Nanocomposite Particles as Nanoreactors and Their Kinetic Characterization
Authors: Harrison Andrew , Vuong Tien T. , Zeevi Michael P. , Hittel Benjamin J. , Wi Sungsool , Tang Christina
Published: March 2019

Self-assembled metal nanoparticle-polymer nanocomposite particles as nanoreactors are a promising approach for performing liquid phase reactions using water as a bulk solvent. In this work, we demonstrate rapid, scalable self-assembly of metal nanoparticle catalyst-polymer nanocomposite particles via Flash NanoPrecipitation. The catalyst loading and size of the nanocomposite particles can be tuned independently. Using nanocomposite particles as nanoreactors and the reduction of 4-nitrophenol as a model reaction, we study the fundamental interplay of reaction and diffusion. The induction time is affected by the sequence of reagent addition, time between additions, and reagent concentration. Combined, our experiments indicate the induction time is most influenced by diffusion of sodium borohydride. Following the induction time, scaling analysis and effective diffusivity measured using NMR indicate that the observed reaction rate are reaction- rather than diffusion-limited. Furthermore, the intrinsic kinetics are comparable to ligand-free gold nanoparticles. This result indicates that the polymer microenvironment does not de-activate or block the catalyst active sites.
Enhanced Light Extraction of Flip-Chip Mini-LEDs with Prism-Structured Sidewall
Authors: Tang Bin , Miao Jia , Liu Yingce , Wan Hui , Li Ning , Zhou Shengjun , Gui Chengqun
Published: March 2019

Current solutions for improving the light extraction efficiency of flip-chip light-emitting diodes (LEDs) mainly focus on relieving the total internal reflection at sapphire/air interface, but such methods hardly affect the epilayer mode photons. We demonstrated that the prism-structured sidewall based on tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) etching is a cost-effective solution for promoting light extraction efficiency of flip-chip mini-LEDs. The anisotropic TMAH etching created hierarchical prism structure on sidewall of mini-LEDs for coupling out photons into air without deteriorating the electrical property. Prism-structured sidewall effectively improved light output power of mini-LEDs by 10.3%, owing to the scattering out of waveguided light trapped in the gallium nitride (GaN) epilayer.
3D Hollow Hierarchical Structures Based on 1D BiOCl Nanorods Intersected with 2D Bi2WO6 Nanosheets for Efficient Photocatalysis Under Visible Light
Authors: Ma Yongchao , Lv Chao , Hou Jiahui , Yuan Shaoteng , Wang Yanru , Xu Ping , Gao Ge , Shi Jinsheng
Published: March 2019

Constructing elaborate catalysts to prompt the charge carrier separation and transport is critical to developing efficient photocatalytic systems. Here, a hierarchical hollow structure based on 1D/2D BiOCl/Bi2WO6 hybrid materials was fabricated by a precursor chemical engineering method. This hybrid is made up of molten 1D BiOCl nanorods and 2D Bi2WO6 nanosheets. The synergetic effect of the presence of BiOCl and specific interfaces between BiOCl and Bi2WO6 provided efficient interfacial charge transfer of photogenerated carriers under visible light. Seamless BiOCl functions like a noble metal, with platinum-like behavior, accelerating the oxidizing ability of fabricated BiOCl/Bi2WO6 hybrids, which was favorable for the photocatalytic decomposition of organic compounds (3.2 times greater for Rhodamine B (RhB) and 4 times greater for Ciprofloxacin (CIP)) over the Bi2WO6 catalysts. The beneficial interfacial interaction between BiOCl and Bi2WO6 resulting from the unique construction prompted the charge transfer from the conduction band of Bi2WO6 to that of BiOCl. The findings presented in this study provide a cost-effective precursor-mediated strategy to realize the critical and efficient separation of photoinduced carriers in environmental remediation applications.
Longitudinal Associations between Emotion Regulation and Adiposity in Late Adolescence: Indirect Effects through Eating Behaviors
Authors: Shriver Lenka H. , Dollar Jessica M. , Lawless Meg , Calkins Susan D. , Keane Susan P. , Shanahan Lilly , Wideman Laurie
Published: March 2019

The prevalence of obesity among U.S. youth continues to increase, with many adolescents engaging in unhealthy eating behaviors. Increasingly, research points to the role of self-regulation in obesity development, yet existing work has largely focused on young children and/or clinical adult populations. This multi-method longitudinal study (N = 153) utilized a path analysis to delineate links between emotion regulation (age 15), emotional eating and dietary restraint (age 16), and adiposity (% body fat) using a BodPod for body composition assessment (age 19). Emotion regulation was negatively associated with emotional eating (β = −0.30, p < 0.001) and positively associated with dietary restraint (β = 0.15, p < 0.05) at age 16, but was not associated with age 19 adiposity (β = −0.01, p = ns). Emotional eating was positively associated with adiposity (β = 0.24, p < 0.01). Indirect effects suggested that emotional eating, but not dietary restraint, at age 16 serves as a mechanism that helps explain the associations between emotion regulation and adiposity four years later. Results from this study suggest that both emotion regulation and emotional eating represent promising targets for that should be included in future interventions aimed at preventing adolescent obesity.
The Response of More Health Focused and Less Health Focused People to a Physical Activity Calorie Equivalent Label on Discretionary Snack Foods
Authors: Hartley Claudia , Keast Russell SJ , Liem Djin Gie
Published: March 2019

A Physical Activity Calorie Equivalent (PACE) label shows the minutes of physical activity required to burn off the caloric content of a particular food. This study investigated the influence of PACE labelling on liking and consumption of discretionary snack foods in a group of more health focused and less health focused consumers. Participants (n = 97) tasted and rated (i.e., liking, prospective consumption) a range of snack foods with or without a PACE label. Total sampling consumption was also measured. Participants completed a shortened version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the General Health Interest Scale questionnaire. Paired samples t-test, independent samples t-tests, a General Linear Model and Chi-Square tests were used to check for statistical significance. For more health focused participants (n = 57), the PACE label decreased only liking (p = 0.02). The PACE label was not effective in reducing liking (p = 0.49), prospective consumption (defined as the amount of the sample participants thought that they could consume) (p = 0.10) or consumption (p = 0.41) of energy-dense discretionary snack foods for less health focused individuals (n = 40). The level of participants’ physical activity did not facilitate the influence of PACE labelling on liking, consumption or prospective consumption. The PACE label was found to not be effective among less health focused individuals or the overall sample population. Therefore, the PACE label may not be an effective labelling strategy to reduce the liking or consumption of discretionary snack foods.
Mass Spectrometric Characterization of Epoxidized Vegetable Oils
Authors: Kuki Ákos , Nagy Tibor , Hashimov Mahir , File Stella , Nagy Miklós , Zsuga Miklós , Kéki Sándor
Published: March 2019

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS and ESI-MS) were used for the characterization of epoxidized soybean and linseed oils, which are important raw materials in the biopolymer production. The recently invented data mining approach, mass-remainder analysis (MARA), was implemented for the analysis of these types of complex natural systems. Different epoxidized triglyceride mass spectral peak series were identified, and the number of carbon atoms and epoxide groups was determined. The fragmentation mechanisms of the epoxidized triglyceride (ETG) adducts formed with different cations (such as H+, Na+, Li+, and NH4+) were explored. As a novel approach, the evaluation of the clear fragmentation pathways of the sodiated ETG adducts enabled the estimation of the epoxidized fatty acid compositions of these types of oils by MS/MS.