bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lineage-Specific Evolved MicroRNAs Regulating NB-LRR Defense Genes in Triticeae
Authors: Zhang Rongzhi , Zhang Shujuan , Hao Weiwei , Song Guoqi , Li Yulian , Li Wei , Gao Jie , Zheng Yongsheng , Li Genying
Published: June 2019

Disease resistance genes encoding proteins with nucleotide binding sites and Leucine-Rich Repeat (NB-LRR) domains include many members involved in the effector-triggered immunity pathway in plants. The transcript levels of these defense genes are negatively regulated by diverse microRNAs (miRNAs) in angiosperms and gymnosperms. In wheat, using small RNA expression datasets and degradome datasets, we identified five miRNA families targeting NB-LRR defense genes in monocots, some of which arose in the Triticeae species era. These miRNAs regulate different types of NB-LRR genes, most of them with coil-coiled domains, and trigger the generation of secondary small interfering RNAs (siRNA) as a phased pattern in the target site regions. In addition to acting in response to biotic stresses, they are also responsive to abiotic stresses such as heat, drought, salt, and light stress. Their copy number and expression variation in Triticeae suggest a rapid birth and death frequency. Altogether, non-conserved miRNAs as conserved transcriptional regulators in gymnosperms and angiosperms regulating the disease resistance genes displayed quick plasticity including the variations of sequences, gene copy number, functions, and expression level, which accompanied with NB-LRR genes may be tune-regulated to plants in natural environments with various biotic and abiotic stresses.
Magnesium Deficiency Induced Global Transcriptome Change in Citrus sinensis Leaves Revealed by RNA-Seq
Authors: Yang Lin-Tong , Zhou Yang-Fei , Wang Yan-Yu , Wu Yan-Mei , Ye Xin , Guo Jiu-Xin , Chen Li-Song
Published: June 2019

Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is one of the major constraining factors that limit the yield and quality of agricultural products. Uniform seedlings of the Citrus sinensis were irrigated with Mg deficient (0 mM MgSO4) and Mg sufficient (1 mM MgSO4) nutrient solutions for 16 weeks. CO2 assimilation, starch, soluble carbohydrates, TBARS content and H2O2 production were measured. Transcriptomic analysis of C. sinensis leaves was performed by Illumina sequencing. Our results showed that Mg deficiency decreased CO2 assimilation, but increased starch, sucrose, TBARS content and H2O2 production in C. sinensis leaves. A total of 4864 genes showed differential expression in response to Mg deficiency revealed by RNA-Seq and the transcriptomic data were further validated by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that the mechanisms underlying Mg deficiency tolerance in C. sinensis may be attributed to the following aspects: (a) enhanced microtubule-based movement and cell cycle regulation; (b) elevated signal transduction in response to biotic and abiotic stimuli; (c) alteration of biological processes by tightly controlling phosphorylation especially protein phosphorylation; (d) down-regulation of light harvesting and photosynthesis due to the accumulation of carbohydrates; (e) up-regulation of cell wall remodeling and antioxidant system. Our results provide a comprehensive insight into the transcriptomic profile of key components involved in the Mg deficiency tolerance in C. sinensis and enrich our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which plants adapted to a Mg deficient condition.
Chronic Pain: Structural and Functional Changes in Brain Structures and Associated Negative Affective States
Authors: Yang Seoyon , Chang Min Cheol
Published: June 2019

Chronic pain is a condition in which pain progresses from an acute to chronic state and persists beyond the healing process. Chronic pain impairs function and decreases patients’ quality of life. In recent years, efforts have been made to deepen our understanding of chronic pain and to develop better treatments to alleviate chronic pain. In this review, we summarize the results of previous studies, focusing on the mechanisms underlying chronic pain development and the identification of neural areas related to chronic pain. We review the association between chronic pain and negative affective states. Further, we describe the structural and functional changes in brain structures that accompany the chronification of pain and discuss various neurotransmitter families involved. Our review aims to provide guidance for the development of future therapeutic approaches that could be used in the management of chronic pain.
Coordinate Modulation of Glycolytic Enzymes and OXPHOS by Imatinib in BCR-ABL Driven Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Cells
Authors: De Rosa Viviana , Monti Marcello , Terlizzi Cristina , Fonti Rosa , Del Vecchio Silvana , Iommelli Francesca
Published: June 2019

Since many oncogenes, including BCR-ABL, may promote the acquisition and maintenance of the glycolytic phenotype, we tested whether treatment of BCR-ABL-driven human leukemia cells with imatinib, a selective BCR-ABL inhibitor, can modulate the expression of key glycolytic enzymes and mitochondrial complex subunits thus causing alterations of glucose metabolism. BCR-ABL-driven K562 and KCL-22 cells were incubated with increasing concentrations of imatinib to preliminarily test drug sensitivity. Then untreated and treated cells were analyzed for levels of BCR-ABL signaling mediators and key proteins of glycolytic cascade and oxidative phosphorylation. Effective inhibition of BCR-ABL caused a concomitant reduction of p-ERK1/2, p-AKT, phosphorylated form of STAT3 (at Tyr705 and Ser727), c-Myc and cyclin D1 along with an increase of cleaved PARP and caspase 3 at 48 h after treatment. Furthermore, a strong reduction of the hexokinase II (HKII), phosphorylated form of PKM2 (at Tyr105 and Ser37) and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDH-A) was observed in response to imatinib along with a strong upregulation of mitochondrial complexes (OXPHOS). According to these findings, a significant reduction of glucose consumption and lactate secretion along with an increase of intracellular ATP levels was observed in response to imatinib. Our findings indicate that imatinib treatment of BCR-ABL-driven human leukemia cells reactivates mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation thus allowing potential co-targeting of BCR-ABL and OXPHOS.
Selenium and Glutathione-Depleted Rats as a Sensitive Animal Model to Predict Drug-Induced Liver Injury in Humans
Authors: Goda Keisuke , Muta Kyotaka , Yasui Yuzo , Oshida Shin-ichi , Kitatani Kanae , Takekoshi Susumu
Published: June 2019

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is one of the most serious and frequent drug-related adverse events in humans. Selenium (Se) and glutathione (GSH) have a crucial role for the hepatoprotective effect against reactive metabolites or oxidative damage leading to DILI. The hepatoprotective capacity related to Se and GSH in rodents is considered to be superior compared to the capacity in humans. Therefore, we hypothesize that Se/GSH-depleted rats could be a sensitive animal model to predict DILI in humans. In this study, Se-deficiency is induced by feeding a Se-deficient diet and GSH-deficiency is induced by l-buthionine-S,R-sulfoxinine treatment via drinking water. The usefulness of this animal model is validated using flutamide, which is known to cause DILI in humans but not in intact rats. In the Se/GSH-depleted rats from the present study, decreases in glutathione peroxidase-1 protein expression and GSH levels and an increase in malondialdehyde levels in the liver are observed without any increase in plasma liver function parameters. Five-day repeated dosing of flutamide at 150 mg/kg causes hepatotoxicity in the Se/GSH-depleted rats but not in normal rats. In conclusion, Se/GSH-depleted rats are the most sensitive for detecting flutamide-induced hepatotoxicity in all the reported animal models.
Bone Remodeling: Histone Modifications as Fate Determinants of Bone Cell Differentiation
Authors: Yi Sun-Ju , Lee Hyerim , Lee Jisu , Lee Kyubin , Kim Junil , Kim Yeojin , Park Jae-Il , Kim Kyunghwan
Published: June 2019

The bone tissue is a dynamic complex that constitutes of several interdependent systems and is continuously remodeled through the concerted actions of bone cells. Osteoblasts are mononucleated cells, derived from mesenchymal stem cells, responsible for bone formation. Osteoclasts are large multinucleated cells that differentiate from hematopoietic progenitors of the myeloid lineage and are responsible for bone resorption. The lineage-specific differentiation of bone cells requires an epigenetic regulation of gene expressions involving chromatin dynamics. The key step for understanding gene regulatory networks during bone cell development lies in characterizing the chromatin modifying enzymes responsible for reorganizing and potentiating particular chromatin structure. This review covers the histone-modifying enzymes involved in bone development, discusses the impact of enzymes on gene expression, and provides future directions and clinical significance in this area.
HDL Triglycerides: A New Marker of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Girona Josefa , Amigó Núria , Ibarretxe Daiana , Plana Núria , Rodríguez-Borjabad Cèlia , Heras Mercedes , Ferré Raimon , Gil Míriam , Correig Xavier , Masana Lluís
Published: June 2019

While cholesterol content in high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) is a well-established inverse marker of cardiovascular risk, the importance of HDL–triglyceride (HDL-TG) concentration is not well known. We aim to examine plasma HDL-TG concentrations, assessed by 1H-NMR, in patients with metabolic diseases and their association with classical biomarkers. In this cross-sectional study, we included 502 patients with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome attending the lipid unit of our University Hospital. The presence of arteriosclerotic plaques was assessed by ultrasonography. A complete lipoprotein profile was performed by 1H-NMR (Liposcale test). HDL-TG was strongly positively correlated with total triglycerides, glycerol, and fatty liver index, while a strong negative correlation was observed with HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) and HDL-particle number (HDL-P). HDL-TG was associated with all triglyceride-rich lipoprotein parameters and had an opposite association with HDL-C and HDL-P. It was also significantly correlated with circulating cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP). HDL-TG concentrations were higher as metabolic syndrome components increased. HDL-TG was also higher with worsening glucose metabolism. Patients with carotid plaques also showed higher HDL-TG. In contrast to HDL-C, HDL-TG is directly associated with metabolism and arteriosclerotic vascular alterations. HDL-TG should be considered a biomarker of metabolic and cardiovascular risk and could be a marker of HDL dysfunction.
Outcomes of Kidney Transplant Patients with Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Treated with Eculizumab: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gonzalez Suarez Maria L. , Thongprayoon Charat , Mao Michael A. , Leeaphorn Napat , Bathini Tarun , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: June 2019

Background: Kidney transplantation in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is frequently complicated by recurrence, resulting in thrombotic microangiopathy in the renal allograft and graft loss. We aimed to assess the use of eculizumab in the prevention and treatment of aHUS recurrence after kidney transplantation. Methods: Databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Database) were searched through February 2019. Studies that reported outcomes of adult kidney transplant recipients with aHUS treated with eculizumab were included. Estimated incidence rates from the individual studies were extracted and combined using random-effects, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird. Protocol for this systematic review has been registered with PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews; no. CRD42018089438). Results: Eighteen studies (13 cohort studies and five case series) consisting of 380 adult kidney transplant patients with aHUS who received eculizumab for prevention and treatment of post-transplant aHUS recurrence were included in the analysis. Among patients who received prophylactic eculizumab, the pooled estimated incidence rates of recurrent thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) after transplantation and allograft loss due to TMA were 6.3% (95%CI: 2.8–13.4%, I2 = 0%) and 5.5% (95%CI: 2.9–10.0%, I2 = 0%), respectively. Among those who received eculizumab for treatment of post-transplant aHUS recurrence, the pooled estimated rates of allograft loss due to TMA was 22.5% (95%CI: 13.6–34.8%, I2 = 6%). When the meta-analysis was restricted to only cohort studies with data on genetic mutations associated with aHUS, the pooled estimated incidence of allograft loss due to TMA was 22.6% (95%CI: 13.2–36.0%, I2 = 10%). We found no significant publication bias assessed by the funnel plots and Egger’s regression asymmetry test (p > 0.05 for all analyses). Conclusions: This study summarizes the outcomes observed with use of eculizumab for prevention and treatment of aHUS recurrence in kidney transplantation. Our results suggest a possible role for anti-C5 antibody therapy in the prevention and management of recurrent aHUS.
Use of Antiplatelet Agents and Survival of Tuberculosis Patients: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Meng-Rui , Lee Ming-Chia , Chang Chia-Hao , Liu Chia-Jung , Chang Lih-Yu , Zhang Jun-Fu , Wang Jann-Yuan , Lee Chih-Hsin
Published: June 2019

While evidence is accumulating that platelets contribute to tissue destruction in tuberculosis (TB) disease, it is still not known whether antiplatelet agents are beneficial to TB patients. We performed this retrospective cohort study and identified incident TB cases in the Taiwan National Tuberculosis Registry from 2008 to 2014. These cases were further classified into antiplatelet users and non-users according to the use of antiplatelet agents prior to the TB diagnosis, and the cohorts were matched using propensity scores (PSs). The primary outcome was survival after a TB diagnosis. In total, 74,753 incident TB cases were recruited; 9497 (12.7%) were antiplatelet users, and 7764 (10.4%) were aspirin (ASA) users. A 1:1 PS-matched cohort with 8864 antiplatelet agent users and 8864 non-users was created. After PS matching, antiplatelet use remained associated with a longer survival (adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.88–0.95, p < 0.0001). The risk of major bleeding was not elevated in antiplatelet users compared to non-users (p = 0.604). This study shows that use of antiplatelet agents has been associated with improved survival in TB patients. The immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of antiplatelet agents in TB disease warrant further investigation. Antiplatelets are promising as an adjunct anti-TB therapy.
New Cardiovascular Biomarkers in Ischemic Heart Disease—GDF-15, A Probable Predictor for Ejection Fraction
Authors: Dalos Daniel , Spinka Georg , Schneider Matthias , Wernly Bernhard , Paar Vera , Hoppe Uta , Litschauer Brigitte , Strametz-Juranek Jeanette , Sponder Michael
Published: June 2019

Background: Various biomarkers have been associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic heart failure. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of serum levels of soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP), and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) with left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) in CAD patients and controls. Methods and Results: CAD patients were divided into three groups according to their EF as measured by the biplane Simpson method (53–84%, 31–52%, ≤30%). Overall, 361 subjects were analyzed. In total, 155 CAD patients had an EF of 53–84%, 71 patients had an EF of 31–52%, and 23 patients had an EF of ≤30% as compared to 112 healthy controls (age 51.3 ± 9.0 years, 44.6% female). Mean ages according to EF were 62.1 ± 10.9, 65.2 ± 10.1, and 66.6 ± 8.2 years, respectively, with females representing 29.0, 29.6, and 13.0%. suPAR, GDF-15, H-FABP, and sST2 values were significantly higher in CAD patients and showed an exponential increase with decreasing EF. In a multiple logistic regression model, GDF-15 (p = 0.009), and NT-brain natriuretic peptide (p = 0.003) were independently associated with EF. Conclusion: Biomarkers such as suPAR, GDF-15, H-FABP, and sST2 are increased in CAD patients, especially in highly impaired EF. Besides NT-proBNP as a well-known marker for risk prediction, GDF-15 may be an additional tool for diagnosis and clinical follow-up.
Climate, Land Use and Land Cover Changes in the Bandama Basin (Côte D’Ivoire, West Africa) and Incidences on Hydropower Production of the Kossou Dam
Authors: Kouame Yao Morton , Obahoundje Salomon , Diedhiou Arona , François Baptiste , Amoussou Ernest , Anquetin Sandrine , Didi Régis Sacre , Kouassi Lazare Kouakou , N’guessan Bi Vami Hermann , Soro Emile Gneneyougo , Yao Etienne Kouakou
Published: June 2019

Climate and land use/cover changes are potential drivers of change in hydrology and water use. Incidences of these factors on Bandama hydrological basin and Kossou hydropower generation (1981–2016) in West Africa are assessed in this present work. Using Landsat products of United Stated Geological Survey, results show that water bodies areas and land use have increased by 1.89%/year and 11.56%/year respectively, whereas herbaceous savanna, savanna, forest and evergreen forest coverage have been reduced by 1.39%/year, 0.02%/year, 2.39%/year and 3.33%/year respectively from 1988 to 2016. Hydroclimatic analysis reveals that streamflow presents greater change in magnitude compared to rainfall though both increasing trends are not statistically significant at annual scale. Streamflow varies at least four (two) times greatly than the rainfall (monthly and seasonally) annually except during driest months probably due to land use/cover change. In contrast, Kossou hydropower generation is significantly decreasing (p-value 0.007) at both monthly and annual scales possibly due to water abstraction at upstream. Further works are required to elucidate the combined effects of land use/cover and climate changes on hydrological system as well as water abstraction on Kossou generation.
Numerical Simulation of a Slipper Model with Multi-Lands and Grooves for Hydraulic Piston Pumps and Motors in Mixed Lubrication
Authors: Kazama Toshiharu
Published: June 2019

A theoretical model of a slipper with multi-lands and multi-grooves for swashplate type axial piston pumps and motors was established, including surface interactions. Further, a numerical simulation was conducted under an unsteady state and mixed lubrication conditions. Four model configurations were considered: A slipper with a single main land; a slipper with inner and main lands and a groove; a slipper with outer and main lands and a groove; and a slipper with inner, main, and outer lands with two grooves. Numerical solutions were obtained across a wide range of operating conditions in terms of center clearance, pad attitude, contact pressure, flow rate, friction torque, power loss, and stiffness. The motion and characteristics were differentiated into two groups: Slippers with a single-land and an annex inner-land; and slippers with an annex outer-land and a triple-land. The single-land and annex inner-land slippers exhibited smaller pad swing, whereas the triple-land and annex outer-land slippers reduced contact pressure and power loss.
Metastable Austenitic Steel Structure and Mechanical Properties Evolution in the Process of Cold Radial Forging
Authors: Panov Dmitry , Pertsev Alexey , Smirnov Alexander , Khotinov Vladislav , Simonov Yuri
Published: June 2019

The article presents the influence of structure formation on the properties of 321 metastable austenitic stainless steel in the process of cold radial forging (CRF). The steel under study after austenitization was subjected to CRF at room temperature with degrees of true strain (e) 0.26, 0.56, 1.00, 1.71 and 2.14. It has been shown that structure formation of the studied steel during CRF consists of three stages: formation of the lamellar structure of austenite, formation of the trapezoidal structure, and formation of the equiaxial grain structure. The kinetics of the strain-induced α′-martensitic transformation is related to the stages of structure evolution. Hardness, ultimate tensile strength and yield strength uniformly increase in all stages of structure formation with a significant decrease of elongation to fracture during the first stage of structure formation while the value of elongation to fracture remains constant in the subsequent stages of deformation. Impact strength of fatigue cracked specimens (KCT) decreases sharply at the first stage of structure formation and smoothly increases at the second and third stages. However, the impact strength of V-notch specimens (KCV) continuously decreases when deformation degree increases in the overall investigated deformation range.
New Insights in the Hydrothermal Synthesis of Rare-Earth Carbonates
Authors: Spiridigliozzi Luca , Ferone Claudio , Cioffi Raffaele , Bortolotti Mauro , Dell’Agli Gianfranco
Published: June 2019

The rare-earth carbonates represent a class of materials with great research interest owing to their intrinsic properties and because they can be used as template materials for the formation of other rare earth phases, particularly of rare-earth oxides. However, most of the literature is focused on the synthesis and characterization of hydroxycarbonates. Conversely, in the present study we have synthesized both rare-earth carbonates—with the chemical formula RE2(CO3)3·2-3H2O, in which RE represents a generic rare-earth element, and a tengerite-type structure with a peculiar morphology—and rare-earth hydroxycarbonates with the chemical formula RECO3OH, by hydrothermal treatment at low temperature (120 °C), using metal nitrates and ammonium carbonates as raw materials, and without using any additive or template. We found that the nature of the rare-earth used plays a crucial role in relation to the formed phases, as predicted by the contraction law of lanthanides. In particular, the hydrothermal synthesis of rare-earth carbonates with a tengerite-type structure was obtained for the lanthanides from neodymium to erbium. A possible explanation of the different behaviors of lighter and heavier rare-earths is given.
Acceleration of Osteogenesis via Stimulation of Angiogenesis by Combination with Scaffold and Connective Tissue Growth Factor
Authors: Honda Michiyo , Hariya Ryo , Matsumoto Morio , Aizawa Mamoru
Published: June 2019

In bone regeneration, there are some important cellular biological processes, such as mineralization, cell organization, and differentiation. In particular, vascularization into regenerative tissues is a key step for the survival of cells and tissues. In this study, to fabricate biomimetic-engineered bone, including vascular networks, we focused on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a multifunctional protein which could regulate the extracellular matrix remodeling. By combination with CTGF and hydroxyapatite (HAp) ceramics (2D) or apatite-fiber scaffold (AFS, 3D), we have fabricated bioactive materials. The CTGF-loaded HAp ceramics could enhance the cellular attachment through interaction with integrin and promote actin cytoskeletal reorganization. CTGF-loaded HAp also enhanced the differentiation of osteoblasts by integrin-mediated activation of the signaling pathway. Under co-culture conditions, both osteoblasts and endothelial cells in the CTGF-loaded AFS were stimulated by CTGF, and each cell could penetrate the central region of the scaffold in vitro and in vivo. Direct cell-cell interaction would also improve the functionality of cells in bone formation. These results suggest that coupling between effective optimized scaffold and CTGF with multifunction could provide better mimicking natural bone by stimulation of angiogenesis.
Long-Time Asymptotics of a Three-Component Coupled mKdV System
Authors: Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: June 2019

We present an application of the nonlinear steepest descent method to a three-component coupled mKdV system associated with a 4 × 4 matrix spectral problem. An integrable coupled mKdV hierarchy with three potentials is first generated. Based on the corresponding oscillatory Riemann-Hilbert problem, the leading asympototics of the three-component mKdV system is then evaluated by using the nonlinear steepest descent method.
Experimental Data Assessment and Fatigue Design Recommendation for Stainless-Steel Welded Joints
Authors: Peng Yang , Chen Jie , Dong Jun
Published: June 2019

Stainless steel possesses outstanding advantages such as good corrosion resistance and long service life. Stainless steel is one of the primary materials used for sustainable structures, and welding is one of the main connection modes of stainless-steel bridges and other structures. Therefore, fatigue damage at welded joints deserves attention. The existing fatigue design codes of stainless-steel structures mainly adopt the design philosophy of structural steel. In order to comprehensively review the published fatigue test data of welded joints in stainless steel, in this paper, the fatigue test data of representative welded joints of stainless steel were summarized comprehensively and the S–N curves of six representative stainless-steel welded joints were obtained by statistical evaluation. The comparison of the fatigue strength from existing design codes and fatigue test data was performed, and the results showed that the fatigue strength of welded joints of stainless steel was higher than that of structural-steel welded joints. The flexibility of regression analysis with and without a fixed negative inverse slope was discussed based on the scatter index. It was found that the fatigue test data of stainless-steel welded joints are more consistent with the S–N curve regressed by a free negative inverse slope. In this paper, a design proposal for the fatigue strength of representative welded joints of stainless steel is presented based on the S–N curve regressed by the free negative inverse slope.
Design and Parameter Identification of Wire and Arc Additively Manufactured (WAAM) Steel Bars for Use in Construction
Authors: Müller Johanna , Grabowski Marcel , Müller Christoph , Hensel Jonas , Unglaub Julian , Thiele Klaus , Kloft Harald , Dilger Klaus
Published: June 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) in industrial applications benefits from increasing interest due to its automation potential and its flexibility in manufacturing complex structures. The construction and architecture sector sees the potential of AM especially in the free form design of steel components, such as force flow optimized nodes or bionic-inspired spaceframes. Robot-guided wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is capable of combining a high degree of automation and geometric freedom with high process efficiency. The build-up strategy (layer by layer) and the corresponding heat input influence the mechanical properties of the WAAM products. This study investigates the WAAM process by welding a bar regarding the build-up geometry, surface topography, and material properties. For tensile testing, an advanced testing procedure is applied to determine the strain fields and mechanical properties of the bars on the component and material scale.
Detection of Coxiella burnetii Using Silicon Microring Resonator in Patient Blood Plasma
Authors: Koo Bonhan , Jin Choong Eun , Bae Moonsuk , Jang Yoon Ok , Kim Ji Yeun , Kim Sung-Han , Shin Yong
Published: June 2019

Blood plasma from patients is a powerful resource for diagnosing infectious disease due to it having many genetic materials as well as being relatively easy to obtain. Thus, various biosensors have been investigated for diagnosing diseases in blood plasma. However, there are no optimized and validated sensors for clinical use due to the low sensitivity, complexity, and difficulties of removing the inhibitors from plasma samples. In this study, we described a silicon microring resonator sensor used to detect Coxiella burnetii from the blood plasma of Q-fever patients in a label-free, real-time manner. Q-fever is an infectious disease caused by Coxiella burnetii via direct contact or inhalation aerosols. We validated this biosensor in the blood plasma of 35 clinical samples (including 16 Q fever samples infected with Coxiella burnetii and 19 samples infected with other febrile diseases. The biosensors are capable of rapid (10 min), highly sensitive (87.5%), and specific (89.5%) detection in plasma samples compared to the use of the conventional method.
Semi-Automated Heavy-Mineral Analysis by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Lünsdorf Nils Keno , Kalies Jannick , Ahlers Patrick , Dunkl István , von Eynatten Hilmar
Published: June 2019

A significant amount of information on sedimentary provenance is encoded in the heavy minerals of a sediment or sedimentary rock. This information is commonly assessed by optically determining the heavy-mineral assemblage, potentially followed by geochemical and/or geochronological analysis of specific heavy minerals. The proposed method of semi-automated heavy-mineral analysis by Raman spectroscopy (Raman-HMA) aims to combine the objective mineral identification capabilities of Raman spectroscopy with high-resolution geochemical techniques applied to single grains. The Raman-HMA method is an efficient and precise tool that significantly improves the comparability of heavy-mineral data with respect to both overall assemblages and individual compositions within solid solution series. Furthermore, the efficiency of subsequent analysis is increased due to identification and spatial referencing of the heavy minerals in the sample slide. The method is tested on modern sediments of the Fulda river (central Germany) draining two Miocene volcanic sources (Vogelsberg, Rhön) resting on top of Lower Triassic siliciclastic sediments. The downstream evolution of the volcanic detritus is documented and the capability to analyze silt-sized grains has revealed an additional eolian source. This capability also poses the possibility of systematically assessing the heavy-mineral assemblages of shales, which are often disregarded in sedimentary provenance studies.
Recent Advances in Biotransformation of Saponins
Authors: He Yi , Hu Zhuoyu , Li Aoran , Zhu Zhenzhou , Yang Ning , Ying Zixuan , He Jingren , Wang Chengtao , Yin Sheng , Cheng Shuiyuan
Published: June 2019

Saponins are a class of glycosides whose aglycones can be either triterpenes or helical spirostanes. It is commonly recognized that these active ingredients are widely found in various kinds of advanced plants. Rare saponins, a special type of the saponins class, are able to enhance bidirectional immune regulation and memory, and have anti-lipid oxidation, anticancer, and antifatigue capabilities, but they are infrequent in nature. Moreover, the in vivo absorption rate of saponins is exceedingly low, which restricts their functions. Under such circumstances, the biotransformation of these ingredients from normal saponins—which are not be easily adsorbed by human bodies—is preferred nowadays. This process has multiple advantages, including strong specificity, mild conditions, and fewer byproducts. In this paper, the biotransformation of natural saponins—such as ginsenoside, gypenoside, glycyrrhizin, saikosaponin, dioscin, timosaponin, astragaloside and ardipusilloside—through microorganisms (Aspergillus sp., lactic acid bacteria, bacilli, and intestinal microbes) will be reviewed and prospected.
16-Hydroxy-Lycopersene, a Polyisoprenoid Alcohol Isolated from Tournefortia hirsutissima, Inhibits Nitric Oxide Production in RAW 264.7 Cells and Induces Apoptosis in Hep3B Cells
Authors: Hurtado-Díaz Israel , Sánchez-Carranza Jessica Nayelli , Romero-Estrada Antonio , González-Maya Leticia , González-Christen Judith , Herrera-Ruiz Maribel , Alvarez Laura
Published: June 2019

Three polyisoprenoid alcohols were isolated from the leaves of Tournefortia hirsutissima by a bioassay-guided phytochemical investigation. The compounds were identified as 16-hydroxy-lycopersene (Compound 1), (Z8,E3,ω)-dodecaprenol (Compound 2) and (Z9,E3,ω)-tridecaprenol (Compound 3). Compound 1, an unusual polyisoprenoid, was characterized by 1D and 2D NMR. We also determined the absolute configuration at C-16 by the modified Mosher’s method. The in vitro antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated. Among isolates, Compound 1 moderately inhibited the nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. On the other hand, Compound 1 displayed selective antiproliferative activity against HeLa, PC3, HepG2 and Hep3B cancer cells and was less potent against IHH non-cancerous cells. Compound 1 in Hep3B cells showed significant inhibition of cell cycle progression increasing the sub-G1 phase, suggesting cell death. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining demonstrated that cell death induced by Compound 1 in cells Hep3B was by apoptosis. Further study showed that apoptosis induced by Compound 1 in Hep3b cells is associated with the increase of the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, and caspase 3/7 activation. These results suggest that Compound 1 induce apoptotic cell death by the mitochondrial pathway. To our knowledge, this is the first report about the presence of polyprenol Compounds 1–3 in T. hirsutissima, and the apoptotic and anti-inflammatory action of Compound 1.
The Metabolomic Profile of Lymphoma Subtypes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Barberini Luigi , Noto Antonio , Fattuoni Claudia , Satta Giannina , Zucca Mariagrazia , Cabras Maria Giuseppina , Mura Ester , Cocco Pierluigi
Published: June 2019

Lymphoma defines a group of different diseases. This study examined pre-treatment plasma samples from 66 adult patients (aged 20–74) newly diagnosed with any lymphoma subtype, and 96 frequency matched population controls. We used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to compare the metabolic profile by case/control status and across the major lymphoma subtypes. We conducted univariate and multivariate analyses, and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). When compared to the controls, statistically validated models were obtained for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma (MM), and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), but not follicular lymphoma (FL). The metabolomic analysis highlighted interesting differences between lymphoma patients and population controls, allowing the discrimination between pathologic and healthy subjects: Important metabolites, such as hypoxanthine and elaidic acid, were more abundant in all lymphoma subtypes. The small sample size of the individual lymphoma subtypes prevented obtaining PLS-DA validated models, although specific peculiar features of each subtype were observed; for instance, fatty acids were most represented in MM and HL patients, while 2-aminoadipic acid, 2-aminoheptanedioic acid, erythritol, and threitol characterized DLBCL and CLL. Metabolomic analysis was able to highlight interesting differences between lymphoma patients and population controls, allowing the discrimination between pathologic and healthy subjects. Further studies are warranted to understand whether the peculiar metabolic patterns observed might serve as early biomarkers of lymphoma.
Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Cimarelli Cristina
Published: June 2019

Multicomponent Reactions appear to be ideal for any form of synthesis, because of their numerous advantages in terms of sustainability and selectivity in building up complex molecular architectures, with high molecular diversity. This Special Issue collects seven contributions which expand our knowledge about Multicomponent Reactions, providing a good overview about innovative reactivities and applications.
Curcumin-Based Photodynamic Sterilization for Preservation of Fresh-Cut Hami Melon
Authors: Lin Yilin , Hu Jiamiao , Li Shiyang , Hamzah Siti Sarah , Jiang Huiqin , Zhou Arong , Zeng Shaoxiao , Lin Shaoling
Published: June 2019

Fresh-cut fruits and vegetables are the main sources of foodborne illness outbreaks with implicated pathogens such as Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes. This study aimed at investigating the influence of two key parameters (concentration of curcumin and illumination time) on the effects of curcumin-based photodynamic sterilization on the preservation of fresh-cut Hami melons. The results indicated that illumination with 50 μmol/L curcumin for 60 min using a blue LED lamp reduced the total aerobic microorganism count by ~1.8 log CFU/g in fresh-cut Hami melons. Besides this, the effects of photodynamic sterilization on the soluble solids content, color, water content, firmness, and sensory indices of the fresh-cut Hami melons were also evaluated. Compared to the control group, photodynamic sterilization can effectively delay the browning rate and maintain the luminosity, firmness, water content, and soluble solids content of fresh-cut Hami melon. The sensory quality was indeed preserved well after 9 days of storage in a fridge. These results showed that photodynamic sterilization is an effective and promising technology to prolong the shelf life of fresh-cut Hami melons.
Implementation of the Sono-Heat-Exchanger in the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extraction Process: End-User Validation and Analytical Evaluation
Authors: Cecchi Lorenzo , Bellumori Maria , Corbo Filomena , Milani Gualtiero , Clodoveo Maria Lisa , Mulinacci Nadia
Published: June 2019

The use of innovative systems, such as the heat exchanger, for production of extra virgin olive oil should allow maintenance of the same quality of those oils derived from traditional processes, and presents specific advantages. The performance of this system was evaluated by (i) determining the parameters directly measurable by the olive millers (i.e., end-user validation based on the production yields when the plant is located in different processing lines) and (ii) assessing the product quality through estimation of the content of phenolic and volatile compounds. The phenols were determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detector (HPLC–DAD) before and after acidic hydrolysis while the volatile fraction was studied by Head-Space Solid-Phase-Micro-Extraction Gas-Chromatography with Mass Detector (HS–SPME–GC–MS). The use of the sono-heat-exchanger presents several advantages: it is a flexible machine, able to interface with all devices of the world’s leading manufacturers of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) extraction plant, and it guarantees shorter processing times and energy savings. Our results also pointed out its capability to increase the oil yields up to 5.5%, particularly when it extracts oil from unripe fruits, which in traditional processes yield oils with higher phenolic contents, but with lower oil yields. Overall, the quality of virgin olive oils was maintained, avoiding decreases of phenolic content or detrimental effects on the sensory characteristics.
Metabolomics for Age Discrimination of Ginseng Using a Multiplex Approach to HR-MAS NMR Spectroscopy, UPLC–QTOF/MS, and GC × GC–TOF/MS
Authors: Yoon Dahye , Choi Bo-Ram , Ma Seohee , Lee Jae Won , Jo Ick-Hyun , Lee Young-Seob , Kim Geum-Soog , Kim Suhkmann , Lee Dae Young
Published: June 2019

(1) Background: The ability to determine the age of ginseng is very important because the price of ginseng depends on the cultivation period. Since morphological observation is subjective, a new scientific and systematic method for determining the age of ginseng is required. (2) Methods: Three techniques were used for a metabolomics approach. High-resolution magic-angle-spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (HR-MAS NMR) spectroscopy was used to analyze powdered ginseng samples without extraction. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS) and gas chromatography quadrupole time-of-fight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF/MS) were used to analyze the extracts of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old ginseng. (3) Results: A metabolomics approach has the potential to discriminate the age of ginseng. Among the primary metabolites detected from NMR spectroscopy, the levels of fumarate and choline showed moderate prediction with an area under the curve (AUC) value of more than 0.7. As a result of UPLC-QTOF/MS-based profiling, 61 metabolites referring to the VIP (variable importance in the projection) score contributed to discriminating the age of ginseng. The results of GC×GC-TOF/MS showed clear discrimination of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old ginseng using orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) to 100% of the discrimination rate. The results of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, 16 metabolites between 4- and 5-year-old ginseng, and 18 metabolites between 5- and 6-year-old ginseng contributed to age discrimination in all regions. (4) Conclusions: These results showed that metabolic profiling and multivariate statistical analyses can distinguish the age of ginseng. Especially, it is meaningful that ginseng samples from different areas had the same metabolites for age discrimination. In future studies, it will be necessary to identify the unknown variables and to collaboratively study with other fields the biochemistry of aging in ginseng.
Considering Gender Differences in Portion Sizes to Improve the Accuracy of Nutrient Intakes from A Food Frequency Questionnaire
Authors: Kang Minji , Park Song-Yi , Boushey Carol J. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Marchand Loïc Le , Kolonel Laurence N. , Murphy Suzanne P. , Paik Hee-Young
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to examine whether using gender specific-portion size (GS-PS) improves the accuracy of nutrient intake assessment by a quantitative food frequency questionnaire (QFFQ). For GS-PS quantification, a gram amount was assigned to each PS category for each food item for men and women separately using data from three 24 h dietary recalls (24HDRs) in a calibration study of the Multiethnic Cohort (men = 1141, women = 1150). Nutrient intakes were calculated from the QFFQ using the original-PS and the GS-PS, and were compared with 24HDRs. When intakes of energy and 15 nutrients were compared, absolute intakes calculated using the GS-PS were closer to intake levels of 24HDRs in both men and women. Using GS-PS did not affect intakes expressed as nutrient density or correlations between 24HDRs and the QFFQ. The current findings indicate that considering gender in PS determination can increase the accuracy of intake assessment by QFFQ for absolute nutrient intakes, but not for nutrient densities.
The Intestinal Fate of Citrus Flavanones and Their Effects on Gastrointestinal Health
Authors: Stevens Yala , Rymenant Evelien Van , Grootaert Charlotte , Camp John Van , Possemiers Sam , Masclee Adrian , Jonkers Daisy
Published: June 2019

Citrus flavanones, with hesperidin and naringin as the most abundant representatives, have various beneficial effects, including anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. Evidence also indicates that they may impact the intestinal microbiome and are metabolized by the microbiota as well, thereby affecting their bioavailability. In this review, we provide an overview on the current evidence on the intestinal fate of hesperidin and naringin, their interaction with the gut microbiota, and their effects on intestinal barrier function and intestinal inflammation. These topics will be discussed as they may contribute to gastrointestinal health in various diseases. Evidence shows that hesperidin and naringin are metabolized by intestinal bacteria, mainly in the (proximal) colon, resulting in the formation of their aglycones hesperetin and naringenin and various smaller phenolics. Studies have also shown that citrus flavanones and their metabolites are able to influence the microbiota composition and activity and exert beneficial effects on intestinal barrier function and gastrointestinal inflammation. Although the exact underlying mechanisms of action are not completely clear and more research in human subjects is needed, evidence so far suggests that citrus flavanones as well as their metabolites have the potential to contribute to improved gastrointestinal function and health.
Photodegradation Study of Sertindole by UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF and Influence of Some Metal Oxide Excipients on the Degradation Process
Authors: Trawiński Jakub , Skibiński Robert
Published: June 2019

The evaluation of the influence of the excipients present in the pharmaceutical formulations on the drug stability is an important part of quality control of medicines. One of the most commonly applied group of excipients are pigments, such as titanium dioxide or various forms of iron oxides, which are well-known photocatalytic agents. Therefore, the photostability of an atypical antipsychotic drug sertindole and the influence of pigments commonly used in the pharmaceutical formulations (FeOOH, Fe2O3, and TiO2) on this process were studied. The quantitative and qualitative analysis of the process was performed with the use of ultra high pressure liquid chromatography with diode array detection (UHPLC-DAD) system coupled with a high resolution hybrid electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight (ESI-Q-TOF) mass spectrometer. Sertindole turned out to be a highly photolabile molecule. Overall 18 transformation products were found, mainly formed as a consequence of dechlorination, hydroxylation, and dehydrogenation. In all the experiments, except the TiO2-mediated photocatalysis, the product of chlorine substitution with a hydroxyl group was the major product. The presence of Fe2O3 and TiO2 accelerated the degradation process, while FeOOH served as its inhibitor. The experiments conducted with the use of the pharmaceutical formulations confirmed the catalytic activity of the used excipients. The exploration of the obtained phototransformation profiles with the use of principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the presence of both iron oxides could influence the qualitative and quantitative aspect of the studied processes. In silico assessment of the properties showed that the transformation products are generally less toxic to rodents, possess lower hERG blocking potential, but could be more mutagenic than the parent molecule.
Melatonin Mediated Regulation of Drought Stress: Physiological and Molecular Aspects
Authors: Sharma Anket , Zheng Bingsong
Published: June 2019

Drought stress adversely effects physiological and biochemical processes of plants, leading to a reduction in plant productivity. Plants try to protect themselves via activation of their internal defense system, but severe drought causes dysfunction of this defense system. The imbalance between generation and scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to oxidative stress. Melatonin, a multifunctional molecule, has the potential to protect plants from the adverse effects of drought stress by enhancing the ROS scavenging efficiency. It helps in protection of photosynthetic apparatus and reduction of drought induced oxidative stress. Melatonin regulates plant processes at a molecular level, which results in providing better resistance against drought stress. In this review, the authors have discussed various physiological and molecular aspects regulated by melatonin in plants under drought conditions, along with their underlying mechanisms.