bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Iminodiacetic Acid-Modified Nieuwland Catalyst on the Acetylene Dimerization Reaction
Authors: You Yanhe , Luo Juan , Xie Jianwei , Dai Bin
Published: December 2017

The iminodiacetic acid-modified Nieuwland catalyst not only improves the conversion of acetylene but also increases the selectivity of monovinylacetylene (MVA). A catalyst system containing 4.5% iminodiacetic acid exhibited excellent performance, and the yield of MVA was maintained at 32% after 24 h, producing an increase in the yield by 12% relative to the Nieuwland catalyst system. Based on a variety of characterization methods analysis of the crystal precipitated from the catalyst solution, it can be inferred that the outstanding performance and lifetime of the catalyst system was due to the presence of iminodiacetic acid, which increases the electron density of Cu+ and adjusts the acidity of the catalytic solution.
Effect of the Chemical Composition of Mesoporous Cerium-Zirconium Oxides on the Modification with Sulfur and Gold Species and Their Application in Glycerol Oxidation
Authors: Kaminski Piotr
Published: December 2017

Ceria, zirconia, and mixed cerium-zirconium mesoporous oxides were synthesized and used as supports for sulfur and gold species. The materials were characterised using selected advanced techniques (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), elemental analysis, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption, and desorption isotherms, Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-vis), Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR), Temperature Programmed Reduction (TPR-H2), Thermogravimetric and Differential Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA)), which allowed for monitoring of the oxidation state of metals (cerium and gold) and the surface properties of the catalysts, in particular the concentration of the components on the surface and in the bulk of materials. The interactions between gold, sulfur, and metals from oxides were considered. The goal of this work was studied the changes in the chemical composition of materials and the oxidation states of cerium species after the modification of oxides with sulfur and gold species and the estimation of the influence of these changes on the surface properties. The chemical composition of surface affects the mobility of surface oxygen and the oxidation state of cerium, which can play the role of redox sites (e.g., Ce3+/Ce4+ species), and therefore it strongly influences the adsorption of hydrogen sulfide and then gold loading. Additionally, gold catalysts modified with sulfur species were tested in the reaction of glycerol oxidation in the liquid phase at basic conditions as the test reaction of the catalytic oxidation of organic pollutants from water.
Chemical Crystallography at the Advanced Light Source
Authors: McCormick Laura , Giordano Nico , Teat Simon , Beavers Christine
Published: December 2017

Chemical crystallography at synchrotrons was pioneered at the Daresbury SRS station 9.8. The chemical crystallography beamlines at the Advanced Light Source seek to follow that example, with orders of magnitude more flux than a lab source, and various in situ experiments. This article attempts to answer why a chemist would require synchrotron X-rays, to describe the techniques available at the ALS chemical crystallography beamlines, and place the current facilities in a historical context.
Combined Forecasting of Rainfall Based on Fuzzy Clustering and Cross Entropy
Authors: Men Baohui , Long Rishang , Li Yangsong , Liu Huanlong , Tian Wei , Wu Zhijian
Published: December 2017

Rainfall is an essential index to measure drought, and it is dependent upon various parameters including geographical environment, air temperature and pressure. The nonlinear nature of climatic variables leads to problems such as poor accuracy and instability in traditional forecasting methods. In this paper, the combined forecasting method based on data mining technology and cross entropy is proposed to forecast the rainfall with full consideration of the time-effectiveness of historical data. In view of the flaws of the fuzzy clustering method which is easy to fall into local optimal solution and low speed of operation, the ant colony algorithm is adopted to overcome these shortcomings and, as a result, refine the model. The method for determining weights is also improved by using the cross entropy. Besides, the forecast is conducted by analyzing the weighted average rainfall based on Thiessen polygon in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region. Since the predictive errors are calculated, the results show that improved ant colony fuzzy clustering can effectively select historical data and enhance the accuracy of prediction so that the damage caused by extreme weather events like droughts and floods can be greatly lessened and even kept at bay.
LNG Regasification Terminals: The Role of Geography and Meteorology on Technology Choices
Authors: Agarwal Randeep , Rainey Thomas J. , Rahman S. M. Ashrafur , Steinberg Ted , Perrons Robert K. , Brown Richard J.
Published: December 2017

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects are regulated by host countries, but policy and regulation should depend on geography and meteorology. Without considering the role of geography and meteorology, sub-optimal design choices can result, leading to energy conversion efficiency and capital investment decisions that are less than ideal. A key step in LNG is regasification, which transforms LNG back from liquid to the gaseous state and requires substantial heat input. This study investigated different LNG regasification technologies used around the world and benchmarked location and meteorology-related factors, such as seawater temperatures, ambient air temperatures, wind speeds and relative humidity. Seawater vaporizers are used for more than 95% of locations subject to water quality. Ambient air conditions are relatively better for South America, India, Spain and other Asian countries (Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Thailand) and provide a much cleaner regasification technology option for natural and forced draft systems and air-based intermediate fluid vaporizers. On a global basis, cold energy utilization currently represents <1% of the total potential, but this approach could deliver nearly 12 Gigawatt (GW) per annum. Overall, climate change is expected to have a positive financial impact on the LNG regasification industry, but the improvement could be unevenly distributed.
Electromagnetic Vibration Simulation of a 250-MW Large Hydropower Generator with Rotor Eccentricity and Rotor Deformation
Authors: Li Ruhai , Li Chaoshun , Peng Xuanlin , Wei Wei
Published: December 2017

The electromagnetic vibration caused by electromagnetic force on the stator has threatened large hydro generators operating safely and stably. At the Zhexi hydropower station, the hydro generator was beset by electromagnetic vibration for a long time. Therefore, the paper provided a new method to help to find the vibration source and detect the hydro generator fault, through the combination of simulation and experiments. In this paper, the 3D stator pack structure model and the 2D hydro generator electromagnetic models under rotor eccentricity and rotor ellipse deformation conditions were built. Then, electromagnetism simulations were conducted to study the characteristics of the electromagnetic flux and electromagnetic force under different conditions by using the finite element method (FEM). Lastly, the vibration testing experiments and harmonic response simulations of stator frame were performed to present the characteristics of vibration distribution in frequency conditions. The simulation results were compared with the generator measured data to try to find out the main vibration source and guide the overhaul.
Research on Energy-Saving Operation Strategy for Multiple Trains on the Urban Subway Line
Authors: Liu Jianqiang , Zhao Nan
Published: December 2017

Energy consumption for multiple trains on the urban subway line is predominantly affected by the operation strategy. This paper proposed an energy-saving operation strategy for multiple trains, which is suitable for various line conditions and complex train schedules. The model and operation modes of the strategy are illustrated in detail, aiming to take full use of regenerative braking energy in complex multi-train systems with different departure intervals and dwell times. The computing method is proposed by means of the heuristic algorithm to obtain the optimum operation curve for each train. The simulation result based on a real urban subway line is provided to verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed energy-saving operation strategy.
Flow Adjustment Inside and Around Large Finite-Size Wind Farms
Authors: Wu Ka , Porté-Agel Fernando
Published: December 2017

In this study, large-eddy simulations are performed to investigate the flow inside and around large finite-size wind farms in conventionally-neutral atmospheric boundary layers. Special emphasis is placed on characterizing the different farm-induced flow regions, including the induction, entrance and development, fully-developed, exit and farm wake regions. The wind farms extend 20 km in the streamwise direction and comprise 36 wind turbine rows arranged in aligned and staggered configurations. Results show that, under weak free-atmosphere stratification ( Γ = 1 K/km), the flow inside and above both wind farms, and thus the turbine power, do not reach the fully-developed regime even though the farm length is two orders of magnitude larger than the boundary layer height. In that case, the wind farm induction region, affected by flow blockage, extends upwind about 0.8 km and leads to a power reduction of 1.3% and 3% at the first row of turbines for the aligned and staggered layouts, respectively. The wind farm wake leads to velocity deficits at hub height of around 3.5% at a downwind distance of 10 km for both farm layouts. Under stronger stratification ( Γ = 5 K/km), the vertical deflection of the subcritical flow induced by the wind farm at its entrance and exit regions triggers standing gravity waves whose effects propagate upwind. They, in turn, induce a large decelerating induction region upwind of the farm leading edge, and an accelerating exit region upwind of the trailing edge, both extending about 7 km. As a result, the turbine power output in the entrance region decreases more than 35% with respect to the weakly stratified case. It increases downwind as the flow adjusts, reaching the fully-developed regime only for the staggered layout at a distance of about 8.5 km from the farm edge. The flow acceleration in the exit region leads to an increase of the turbine power with downwind distance in that region, and a relatively fast (compared with the weakly stratified case) recovery of the farm wake, which attains its inflow hub height speed at a downwind distance of 5 km.
Individual-Tree Diameter Growth Models for Mixed Nothofagus Second Growth Forests in Southern Chile
Authors: Moreno Paulo , Palmas Sebastian , Escobedo Francisco , Cropper Wendell , Gezan Salvador
Published: December 2017

Second growth forests of Nothofagus obliqua (roble), N. alpina (raulí), and N. dombeyi (coihue), known locally as RORACO, are among the most important native mixed forests in Chile. To improve the sustainable management of these forests, managers need adequate information and models regarding not only existing forest conditions, but their future states with varying alternative silvicultural activities. In this study, an individual-tree diameter growth model was developed for the full geographical distribution of the RORACO forest type. This was achieved by fitting a complete model by comparing two variable selection procedures: cross-validation (CV), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. A small set of predictors successfully explained a large portion of the annual increment in diameter at breast height (DBH) growth, particularly variables associated with competition at both the tree- and stand-level. Goodness-of-fit statistics for this final model showed an empirical coefficient of correlation (R2emp) of 0.56, relative root mean square error of 44.49% and relative bias of −1.96% for annual DBH growth predictions, and R2emp of 0.98 and 0.97 for DBH projection at 6 and 12 years, respectively. This model constitutes a simple and useful tool to support management plans for these forest ecosystems.
Inhibition of Growth and Ammonia Production of Ruminal Hyper Ammonia-Producing Bacteria by Chinook or Galena Hops after Long-Term Storage
Authors: Flythe Michael , Harlow Brittany , Aiken Glen , Gellin Gloria , Kagan Isabelle , Pappas Jesse
Published: December 2017

Surplus hops (Humulus lupulus L.) that are not needed by the brewing industry could be used as a feed supplement for cattle and other ruminants. Previous research indicates that antimicrobial hops plant secondary metabolites (i.e., α- and β-acids) inhibit methane and ammonia production and promote the growth of ruminant animals. The goal was to determine that hop pellets produced for brewing still possessed the requisite antimicrobial activity after 5-year storage. HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis indicated that the α- and β-acid concentrations in two varieties of hops were relatively stable after 5 years of storage under N2. Either hop variety inhibited the growth of the ruminal hyper ammonia-producing bacterium, Clostridium sticklandii SR, in broth culture and Petri plate bioassays. Either hop variety inhibited ammonia production from amino acids or peptides by mixed rumen microorganisms from Holstein steers. These results are similar to those previously obtained with fresh hops, hops extracts, other antimicrobial phytochemicals and typical feed ionophores, such as monensin. The rumen-active antimicrobial phytochemicals in hops can still be present and active after years under certain storage conditions. Further investigation is warranted to determine how surplus and older hops can be used to benefit ruminant nutrition and ruminant industries.
Attitudinal, Behavioral, and Environmental Correlates of Child and Parent Self-Efficacy in Walking to School
Authors: Kim Young-Jae , Lee Chanam , Lu Wenhua , Mendoza Jason
Published: December 2017

As a critical social cognitive construct, self-efficacy plays a determinant role in children’s walking to school (WTS). However, little is known about factors that are underlying children’s and parents’ self-efficacy in WTS. The purpose of this study is to examine behavioral, attitudinal, and environmental correlates of child self-efficacy and parent self-efficacy in WTS, and to assess differences in the correlates of child versus parent self-efficacy. Data were collected from students (N = 1224) and parents (N = 1205) from 81 elementary schools across Texas in 2009–2012. Binary logistic regressions were conducted to identify significant factors that are associated with children’s self-efficacy and parents’ self-efficacy. Results from this study showed that the parent self-efficacy was more likely to be related to their own behaviors or attitudes, rather than the environmental factors or their child’s input. The child self-efficacy, however, was influenced not only by their own and parental behaviors or attitudes, but also by environmental factors. This study suggests that both parental and child self-efficacy are important factors to be considered when making decisions about school transportation.
Heavy Metal Pollution and Ecological Assessment around the Jinsha Coal-Fired Power Plant (China)
Authors: Huang Xianfei , Hu Jiwei , Qin Fanxin , Quan Wenxuan , Cao Rensheng , Fan Mingyi , Wu Xianliang
Published: December 2017

Heavy metal pollution is a serious problem worldwide. In this study, 41 soil samples and 32 cabbage samples were collected from the area surrounding the Jinsha coal-fired power plant (JCFP Plant) in Guizhou Province, southwest China. Pb, Cd, Hg, As, Cu and Cr concentrations in soil samples and cabbage samples were analysed to study the pollution sources and risks of heavy metals around the power plant. The results indicate that the JCFP Plant contributes to the Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Cu, and Cr pollution in nearby soils, particularly Hg pollution. Cu and Cr in soils from both croplands and forestlands in the study area derive mainly from crustal materials or natural processes. Pb, Cd and As in soils from croplands arise partly through anthropogenic activities, but these elements in soils from forestlands originate mainly from crustal materials or natural processes. Hg pollution in soils from both croplands and forestlands is caused mainly by fly ash from the JCFP Plant. The cabbages grown in the study area were severely contaminated with heavy metals, and more than 90% of the cabbages had Pb concentrations exceeding the permissible level established by the Ministry of Health and the Standardization Administration of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, 30% of the cabbages had As concentrations exceeding the permissible level. Because forests can protect soils from heavy metal pollution caused by atmospheric deposition, close attention should be given to the Hg pollution in soils and to the concentrations of Pb, As, Hg and Cr in vegetables from the study area.
An Evidence-Based Review of Impacts, Strategies and Tools to Mitigate Urban Heat Islands
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Echevarria Icaza Leyre , Emanche Victoria , Quasem Al-Amin Abul
Published: December 2017

The impacts of climate changes on cities, which are home to over half of the world’s population, are already being felt. In many cases, the intensive speed with which urban centres have been growing means that little attention has been paid to the role played by climatic factors in maintaining quality of life. Among the negative consequences of rapid city growth is the expansion of the problems posed by urban heat islands (UHIs), defined as areas in a city that are much warmer than other sites, especially in comparison with rural areas. This paper analyses the consistency of the UHI-related literature in three stages: first it outlines its characteristics and impacts in a wide variety of cities around the world, which poses pressures to public health in many different countries. Then it introduces strategies which may be employed in order to reduce its effects, and finally it analyses available tools to systematize the initial high level assessment of the phenomenon for multidisciplinary teams involved in the urban planning process. The analysis of literature on the characteristics, impacts, strategies and digital tools to assess on the UHI, reveals the wide variety of parameters, methods, tools and strategies analysed and suggested in the different studies, which does not always allow to compare or standardize the diagnosis or solutions.
Virtual Geographic Simulation of Light Distribution within Three-Dimensional Plant Canopy Models
Authors: Tang Liyu , Yin Dan , Chen Shuwei , Chen Chongcheng , Huang Hongyu , Lin Ding
Published: December 2017

Virtual geographic environments (VGEs) have been regarded as an important new means of simulating, analyzing, and understanding complex geological processes. Plants and light are major components of the geographic environment. Light is a critical factor that affects ecological systems. In this study, we focused on simulating light transmission and distribution within a three-dimensional plant canopy model. A progressive refinement radiosity algorithm was applied to simulate the transmission and distribution of solar light within a detailed, three-dimensional (3D) loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) canopy model. The canopy was described in three dimensions, and each organ surface was represented by a set of triangular facets. The form factors in radiosity were calculated using a hemi-cube algorithm. We developed a module for simulating the instantaneous light distribution within a virtual canopy, which was integrated into ParaTree. We simulated the distribution of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) within a loquat canopy, and calculated the total PAR intercepted at the whole canopy scale, as well as the mean PAR interception per unit leaf area. The ParaTree-integrated radiosity model simulates the uncollided propagation of direct solar and diffuse sky light and the light-scattering effect of foliage. The PAR captured by the whole canopy based on the radiosity is approximately 9.4% greater than that obtained using ray tracing and TURTLE methods. The latter methods do not account for the scattering among leaves in the canopy in the study, and therefore, the difference might be due to the contribution of light scattering in the foliage. The simulation result is close to Myneni’s findings, in which the light scattering within a canopy is less than 10% of the incident PAR. Our method can be employed for visualizing and analyzing the spatial distribution of light within a canopy, and for estimating the PAR interception at the organ and canopy levels. It is useful for designing plant canopy architecture (e.g., fruit trees and plants in urban greening) and planting planning.
Identification of Differentially Expressed miRNAs in Colorado Potato Beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)) Exposed to Imidacloprid
Authors: Morin Mathieu , Lyons Pierre , Crapoulet Nicolas , Boquel Sébastien , Morin Pier
Published: December 2017

The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)) is a significant pest of potato plants that has been controlled for more than two decades by neonicotinoid imidacloprid. L. decemlineata can develop resistance to this agent even though the molecular mechanisms underlying this resistance are not well characterized. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short ribonucleic acids that have been linked to response to various insecticides in several insect models. Unfortunately, the information is lacking regarding differentially expressed miRNAs following imidacloprid treatment in L. decemlineata. In this study, next-generation sequencing and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to identify modulated miRNAs in imidacloprid-treated versus untreated L. decemlineata. This approach identified 33 differentially expressed miRNAs between the two experimental conditions. Of interest, miR-282 and miR-989, miRNAs previously shown to be modulated by imidacloprid in other insects, and miR-100, a miRNA associated with regulation of cytochrome P450 expression, were significantly modulated in imidacloprid-treated beetles. Overall, this work presents the first report of a miRNA signature associated with imidacloprid exposure in L. decemlineata using a high-throughput approach. It also reveals interesting miRNA candidates that potentially underly imidacloprid response in this insect pest.
Tumor Microenvironment and Metabolism
Authors: Yang Li
Published: December 2017

The tumor microenvironment has profound effects on cancer development, progression, and therapeutic response. [...]
Lysophospholipid-Related Diseases and PPARγ Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tsukahara Tamotsu , Matsuda Yoshikazu , Haniu Hisao
Published: December 2017

The nuclear receptor superfamily includes ligand-inducible transcription factors that play diverse roles in cell metabolism and are associated with pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) belongs to a family of lipid mediators. LPA and its naturally occurring analogues interact with G protein-coupled receptors on the cell surface and an intracellular nuclear hormone receptor. In addition, several enzymes that utilize LPA as a substrate or generate it as a product are under its regulatory control. Recent studies have demonstrated that the endogenously produced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) antagonist cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA), which is structurally similar to LPA, inhibits cancer cell invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We recently observed that cPA negatively regulates PPARγ function by stabilizing the binding of the co-repressor protein, a silencing mediator of retinoic acid, and the thyroid hormone receptor. We also showed that cPA prevents neointima formation, adipocyte differentiation, lipid accumulation, and upregulation of PPARγ target gene transcription. The present review discusses the arbitrary aspects of the physiological and pathophysiological actions of lysophospholipids in vascular and nervous system biology.
Impact of Unsaturated Fatty Acids on Cytokine-Driven Endothelial Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Trommer Simon , Leimert Anja , Bucher Michael , Schumann Julia
Published: December 2017

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are reported to exert prophylactic and acute therapeutic effects in diseases linked to endothelial dysfunction. In the present study, the consequences of a PUFA enrichment of endothelial cells (cell line TIME) on cell viability, expression of the cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), synthesis of the adhesion molecules intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), and production of the coagulation factors plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), von Willebrand factor (vWF), and tissue factor (TF) was analyzed in parallel. PUFA of both the n3 and the n6 family were investigated in a physiologically relevant concentration of 15 µM, and experiments were performed in both the presence and the absence of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Supplementation of the culture medium with particular fatty acids was found to have a promoting effect on cellular production of the cytokines IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, and MCP-1. Further on, PUFA treatment in the absence of a stimulant diminished the percentage of endothelial cells positive for ICAM-1, and adversely affected the stimulation-induced upregulation of VCAM-1. Cell viability and production of coagulation factors were not or only marginally affected by supplemented fatty acids. Altogether, the data indicate that PUFA of either family are only partially able to counterbalance the destructive consequences of an endothelial dysfunction.
A Molecular Interpretation on the Different Penetration Enhancement Effect of Borneol and Menthol towards 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Wang Ran , Wu Zhimin , Yang Shufang , Guo Shujuan , Dai Xingxing , Qiao Yanjiang , Shi Xinyuan
Published: December 2017

Borneol and menthol are terpenes that are widely used as penetration enhancers in transdermal drug delivery. To explore their penetration-enhancement effects on hydrophilic drugs, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was selected as a model drug. An approach that combined in vitro permeation studies and coarse-grained molecular dynamics was used to investigate their penetration-enhancement effect on 5-FU. The results showed that although both borneol and menthol imparted penetration-enhancement effects on 5-FU, these differed in terms of their mechanism, which may account for the observed variations in penetration-enhancement effects. The main mechanism of action of menthol involves the disruption of the stratum corneum (SC) bilayer, whereas borneol involves multiple mechanisms, including the disruption of the SC bilayer, increasing the diffusion coefficient of 5-FU, and inducing the formation of transient pores. The findings of the present study improve our understanding of the molecular mechanism that is underlying 5-FU penetration-enhancement by borneol and menthol, which may be utilized in future investigations and applications.
Canadine from Corydalis turtschaninovii Stimulates Myoblast Differentiation and Protects against Myotube Atrophy
Authors: Lee Hyejin , Lee Sang-Jin , Bae Gyu-Un , Baek Nam-In , Ryu Jae-Ha
Published: December 2017

Cachexia and sarcopenia are the main causes of muscle atrophy. These result in a reduction in the muscle fiber area, myo-protein content, and muscle strength, with various molecular modulators being involved. Although several reports have proposed potential therapeutic agents, no effective treatments have been found for muscle atrophy. We searched for myogenic modulators from medicinal plants to treat muscle diseases. We isolated six alkaloids from Corydalis turtschaninovii and evaluated their myogenic potential by using the MyoD reporter gene assay in C2C12 cells. Among the tested compounds, canadine showed the strongest transactivation of MyoD and increased MHC expression during myogenesis. The activation of p38 MAP kinase and Akt are major mechanisms that contribute to the myogenesis by canadine. Canadine increased the number of multinucleated and cylinder-shaped myotubes during myogenesis of C2C12 myoblasts. To determine the preventive effect of canadine in cancer-induced muscle wasting, differentiated C2C12 myotubes were treated with conditioned media from CT26 colon carcinoma culture (CT26 CM) in the presence of canadine. Canadine ameliorated the muscle protein degradation caused by CT26-CM by down-regulating the muscle specific-E3 ligases, MAFbx/atrogin-1 and MuRF1. In this study, we found that canadine from C. turtschaninovii stimulates myogenesis and also inhibits muscle protein degradation. Therefore, we suggest canadine as a protective agent against muscle atrophy.
Flavonoids of Kudzu Root Fermented by Eurtotium cristatum Protected Rat Pheochromocytoma Line 12 (PC12) Cells against H2O2-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Bo , Li Wen , Dong Mingsheng
Published: December 2017

Novel bioactive components have greatly attracted attention as they demonstrate health benefits. Reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) showed that isoflavonoid compounds of kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) fermented by Eurtotium cristatum and extracted using de-ionized water were higher active compared with non-fermented. A model of H2O2-inducd cell damage was built using rat pheochromocytoma line 12 (PC12) cell to observe the protective effect of non-fermented kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) (NFK) and fermented kudzu root (Pueraria lobata) (FK). Cell viability and apoptosis were analyzed through inverted microscopy and flow cytometry. The level of lactate dehydrogenase, catalase activity, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated. Results showed that NFK and FK could significantly protect PC12 cell against damage caused by H2O2-induced oxidative stress. The intracellular antioxidant system was increased, protected the cell membrane inhibit H2O2-induced apoptosis by scavenging of ROS. Moreover, NFK and FK regulated the cell cycle to prevent cell apoptosis. Isoflavonoid from the kudzu root especially fermented kudzu root with E. cristatum are potentially therapeutic drugs against diseases induced by oxidative damage.
Biopersistence of NiO and TiO2 Nanoparticles Following Intratracheal Instillation and Inhalation
Authors: Oyabu Takako , Myojo Toshihiko , Lee Byeong-Woo , Okada Takami , Izumi Hiroto , Yoshiura Yukiko , Tomonaga Taisuke , Li Yun-Shan , Kawai Kazuaki , Shimada Manabu , Kubo Masaru , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Kawaguchi Kenji , Sasaki Takeshi , Morimoto Yasuo
Published: December 2017

The hazards of various types of nanoparticles with high functionality have not been fully assessed. We investigated the usefulness of biopersistence as a hazard indicator of nanoparticles by performing inhalation and intratracheal instillation studies and comparing the biopersistence of two nanoparticles with different toxicities: NiO and TiO2 nanoparticles with high and low toxicity among nanoparticles, respectively. In the 4-week inhalation studies, the average exposure concentrations were 0.32 and 1.65 mg/m3 for NiO, and 0.50 and 1.84 mg/m3 for TiO2. In the instillation studies, 0.2 and 1.0 mg of NiO nanoparticles and 0.2, 0.36, and 1.0 mg of TiO2 were dispersed in 0.4 mL water and instilled to rats. After the exposure, the lung burden in each of five rats was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES) from 3 days to 3 months for inhalation studies and to 6 months for instillation studies. In both the inhalation and instillation studies, NiO nanoparticles persisted for longer in the lung compared with TiO2 nanoparticles, and the calculated biological half times (BHTs) of the NiO nanoparticles was longer than that of the TiO2 nanoparticles. Biopersistence also correlated with histopathological changes, inflammatory response, and other biomarkers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) after the exposure to nanoparticles. These results suggested that the biopersistence is a good indicator of the hazards of nanoparticles.
Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 Facilitates an Intercellular Interaction between CD4+ T Cells through IL-1β Autocrine Function in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Takemiya Takako , Takeuchi Chisen , Kawakami Marumi
Published: December 2017

Microsomal prostaglandin synthetase-1 (mPGES-1) is an inducible terminal enzyme that produces prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In our previous study, we investigated the role of mPGES-1 in the inflammation and demyelination observed in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis, using mPGES-1-deficient (mPGES-1−/−) and wild-type (wt) mice. We found that mPGES-1 facilitated inflammation, demyelination, and paralysis and was induced in vascular endothelial cells and macrophages and microglia around inflammatory foci. Here, we investigated the role of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the intercellular mechanism stimulated by mPGES-1 in EAE spinal cords in the presence of inflammation. We found that the area invaded by CD4-positive (CD4+) T cells was extensive, and that PGE2 receptors EP1–4 were more induced in activated CD4+ T cells of wt mice than in those of mPGES-1−/− mice. Moreover, IL-1β and IL-1 receptor 1 (IL-1r1) were produced by 65% and 48% of CD4+ T cells in wt mice and by 44% and 27% of CD4+ T cells in mPGES-1−/− mice. Furthermore, interleukin-17 (IL-17) was released from the activated CD4+ T cells. Therefore, mPGES-1 stimulates an intercellular interaction between CD4+ T cells by upregulating the autocrine function of IL-1β in activated CD4+ T cells, which release IL-17 to facilitate axonal and myelin damage in EAE mice.
Overexpression and Down-Regulation of Barley Lipoxygenase LOX2.2 Affects Jasmonate-Regulated Genes and Aphid Fecundity
Authors: Losvik Aleksandra , Beste Lisa , Glinwood Robert , Ivarson Emelie , Stephens Jennifer , Zhu Li-Hua , Jonsson Lisbeth
Published: December 2017

Aphids are pests on many crops and depend on plant phloem sap as their food source. In an attempt to find factors improving plant resistance against aphids, we studied the effects of overexpression and down-regulation of the lipoxygenase gene LOX2.2 in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) on the performance of two aphid species. A specialist, bird cherry-oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi L.) and a generalist, green peach aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer) were studied. LOX2.2 overexpressing lines showed up-regulation of some other jasmonic acid (JA)-regulated genes, and antisense lines showed down-regulation of such genes. Overexpression or suppression of LOX2.2 did not affect aphid settling or the life span on the plants, but in short term fecundity tests, overexpressing plants supported lower aphid numbers and antisense plants higher aphid numbers. The amounts and composition of released volatile organic compounds did not differ between control and LOX2.2 overexpressing lines. Up-regulation of genes was similar for both aphid species. The results suggest that LOX2.2 plays a role in the activation of JA-mediated responses and indicates the involvement of LOX2.2 in basic defense responses.
Effects and Mechanisms of Total Flavonoids from Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. on Skin Wound in Rats
Authors: Pang Yuxin , Zhang Yan , Huang Luqi , Xu Luofeng , Wang Kai , Wang Dan , Guan Lingliang , Zhang Yingbo , Yu Fulai , Chen Zhenxia , Xie Xiaoli
Published: December 2017

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) evolved through thousands of years of practice and was popular not only among the Chinese population, but also most countries in the world. Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. as a traditional treatment for wound healing in Li Nationality Medicine has a long history of nearly 2000 years. This study was to evaluate the effects of total flavonoids from Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. on skin excisional wound on the back of Sprague-Dawley rats, reveal its chemical constitution, and postulate its action mechanism. The rats were divided into five groups and the model groups were treated with 30% glycerol, the positive control groups with Jing Wan Hong (JWH) ointment, and three treatment groups with high dose (2.52 g·kg−1), medium dose (1.26 g·kg−1), and low dose (0.63 g·kg−1) of total flavonoids from B. balsamifera. During 10 consecutive days of treatment, the therapeutic effects of rates were evaluated. On day 1, day 3, day 5, day 7, and day 10 after treatment, skin samples were taken from all the rats for further study. Significant increases of granulation tissue, fibroblast, and capillary vessel proliferation were observed at day 7 in the high dose and positive control groups, compared with the model group, with the method of 4% paraformaldehyde for histopathological examination and immunofluorescence staining. To reveal the action mechanisms of total flavonoids on wound healing, the levels of CD68, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and hydroxyproline were measured at different days. Results showed that total flavonoids had significant effects on rat skin excisional wound healing compared with controls, especially high dose ones (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the total flavonoid extract was investigated phytochemically, and twenty-seven compounds were identified from the total flavonoid sample by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry/diode array detector (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/DAD), including 16 flavonoid aglucons, five flavonoid glycosides (main peaks in chromatogram), five chlorogenic acid analogs, and 1 coumarin. Reports show that flavonoid glycoside possesses therapeutic effects of curing wounds by inducing neovascularization, and chlorogenic acid also has anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities; we postulated that all the ingredients in total flavonoids sample maybe exert a synergetic effect on wound curing. Accompanied with detection of four growth factors, the upregulation of these key growth factors may be the mechanism of therapeutic activities of total flavonoids. The present study confirmed undoubtedly that flavonoids were the main active constituents that contribute to excisional wound healing, and suggested its action mechanism of improving expression levels of growth factors at different healing phases.
Uncertain Production Scheduling Based on Fuzzy Theory Considering Utility and Production Rate
Authors: Wang Yue , Jin Xin , Xie Lei , Zhang Yanhui , Lu Shan
Published: December 2017

Handling uncertainty in an appropriate manner during the real operation of a cyber-physical system (CPS) is critical. Uncertain production scheduling as a part of CPS uncertainty issues should attract more attention. In this paper, a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) uncertain model for batch process is formulated based on a unit-specific event-based continuous-time modeling method. Utility uncertainty and uncertain relationship between production rate and utility supply are described by fuzzy theory. The uncertain scheduling model is converted into deterministic model by mathematical method. Through one numerical example, the accuracy and practicability of the proposed model is proved. Fuzzy scheduling model can supply valuable decision options for enterprise managers to make decision more accurate and practical. The impact and selection of some key parameters of fuzzy scheduling model are elaborated.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Water-Atomized Iron-Based Powders: Process Optimization
Authors: Letenneur Morgan , Brailovski Vladimir , Kreitcberg Alena , Paserin Vladimir , Bailon-Poujol Ian
Published: December 2017

The laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technology was adapted for use with non-spherical low-cost water-atomized iron powders. A simplified numerical and experimental modeling approach was applied to determine—in a first approximation—the operation window for the selected powder in terms of laser power, scanning speed, hatching space, and layer thickness. The operation window, delimited by a build rate ranging from 4 to 25 cm3/h, and a volumetric energy density ranging from 50 to 190 J/mm3, was subsequently optimized to improve the density, the mechanical properties, and the surface roughness of the manufactured specimens. Standard L-PBF-built specimens were subjected to microstructural (porosity, grain size) and metrological (accuracy, shrinkage, minimum wall thickness, surface roughness) analyses and mechanical testing (three-point bending and tensile tests). The results of the microstructural, metrological and mechanical characterizations of the L-PBF-built specimens subjected to stress relieve annealing and hot isostatic pressing were then compared with those obtained with conventional pressing-sintering technology. Finally, by using an energy density of 70 J/mm3 and a build rate of 9 cm3/h, it was possible to manufacture 99.8%-dense specimens with an ultimate strength of 330 MPa and an elongation to failure of 30%, despite the relatively poor circularity of the powder used.
Constraining the Deforestation History of Europe: Evaluation of Historical Land Use Scenarios with Pollen-Based Land Cover Reconstructions
Authors: Kaplan Jed , Krumhardt Kristen , Gaillard Marie-José , Sugita Shinya , Trondman Anna-Kari , Fyfe Ralph , Marquer Laurent , Mazier Florence , Nielsen Anne
Published: December 2017

Anthropogenic land cover change (ALCC) is the most important transformation of the Earth system that occurred in the preindustrial Holocene, with implications for carbon, water and sediment cycles, biodiversity and the provision of ecosystem services and regional and global climate. For example, anthropogenic deforestation in preindustrial Eurasia may have led to feedbacks to the climate system: both biogeophysical, regionally amplifying winter cold and summer warm temperatures, and biogeochemical, stabilizing atmospheric CO 2 concentrations and thus influencing global climate. Quantification of these effects is difficult, however, because scenarios of anthropogenic land cover change over the Holocene vary widely, with increasing disagreement back in time. Because land cover change had such widespread ramifications for the Earth system, it is essential to assess current ALCC scenarios in light of observations and provide guidance on which models are most realistic. Here, we perform a systematic evaluation of two widely-used ALCC scenarios (KK10 and HYDE3.1) in northern and part of central Europe using an independent, pollen-based reconstruction of Holocene land cover (REVEALS). Considering that ALCC in Europe primarily resulted in deforestation, we compare modeled land use with the cover of non-forest vegetation inferred from the pollen data. Though neither land cover change scenario matches the pollen-based reconstructions precisely, KK10 correlates well with REVEALS at the country scale, while HYDE systematically underestimates land use with increasing magnitude with time in the past. Discrepancies between modeled and reconstructed land use are caused by a number of factors, including assumptions of per-capita land use and socio-cultural factors that cannot be predicted on the basis of the characteristics of the physical environment, including dietary preferences, long-distance trade, the location of urban areas and social organization.
Development of AlN/Epoxy Composites with Enhanced Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Xu Yonggang , Yang Chi , Li Jun , Mao Xiaojian , Zhang Hailong , Hu Song , Wang Shiwei
Published: December 2017

AlN/epoxy composites with high thermal conductivity were successfully prepared by infiltrating epoxy into AlN porous ceramics which were fabricated by gelcasting of foaming method. The microstructure, mechanical, and thermal properties of the resulting composites were investigated. The compressive strengths of the AlN/epoxy composites were enhanced compared with the pure epoxy. The AlN/epoxy composites demonstrate much higher thermal conductivity, up to 19.0 W/(m·K), compared with those by the traditional particles filling method, because of continuous thermal channels formed by the walls and struts of AlN porous ceramics. This study demonstrates a potential route to manufacture epoxy-based composites with extremely high thermal conductivity.
New Cytotoxic Terpenoids from Soft Corals Nephthea chabroli and Paralemnalia thyrsoides
Authors: Lee Yu-Sheng , Duh Tsai-Hui , Siao Shu-Sheng , Chang Rey-Chang , Wang Shang-Kwei , Duh Chang-Yih
Published: December 2017

A novel cytotoxic diterpenoid, chabrolin A (1) (possessing an unprecedented terpenoid skeleton), as well as three new cytotoxic sesquiterpenoids, parathyrsoidins E–G (2–4), were isolated by cytotoxicity-guided fractionation from soft corals Nephthea chabroli and Paralemnalia thyrsoides. The structures of the new compounds were determined by extensive analysis of spectroscopic data.
cGAMP Promotes Germinal Center Formation and Production of IgA in Nasal-Associated Lymphoid Tissue
Authors: Takaki Hiromi , Takashima Ken , Oshiumi Hiroyuki , Ainai Akira , Suzuki Tadaki , Hasegawa Hideki , Matsumoto Misako , Seya Tsukasa
Published: December 2017

Induction of immunoglobulin (Ig) A in the mucosa of the upper respiratory tract and the nasal cavity protects against influenza virus infection. Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) are used as mucosal adjuvants to enhance the immunogenicity of intranasal influenza hemagglutinin (HA) vaccines. The adjuvant activity of 2′3′ cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) on Ig production was investigated in nasal-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT), serum of wild-type C57BL/6J, and stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-deficient mice, which do not recognize cGAMP. Mice were vaccinated intranasally with a HA vaccine with or without the cGAMP adjuvant. IgA and IgG production, T-cell responses, germinal center formation, and cytokine expression in NALT were assayed. cGAMP enhanced IgA and IgG production, and promoted T-cell responses. Intranasal administration of cGAMP activated both NALT and systemic immune cells, induced a favorable cytokine environment for IgA induction, and promoted germinal center formation. The cGAMP effect was STING-dependent. Taken together, cGAMP as an HA vaccine adjuvant promoted a STING-dependent NALT environment suitable for the enhancement of IgA production.
Report from the Scientific Poster Session at the 12th Annual Cardiometabolic Health Congress in Boston, USA, 4–7 October 2017
Authors:   Organizing Committee CMHC 2017
Published: December 2017

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Colour-Value Based Method for Polydopamine Coating-Stability Characterization on Polyethersulfone Membranes
Authors: Bucher Thomas , Clodt Juliana , Grabowski Andrej , Hein Martin , Filiz Volkan
Published: December 2017

Porous polyethersulfone membranes as used in oenology were investigated in order to evaluate temperature-dependent permeances in a temperature range from 10 to 35 °C. A temperature correction factor was determined for this type of membrane to get accurate and comparable results for further developments. Moreover, the membranes were modified with a bio-inspired polydopamine coating in order to reduce fouling. The performance of the membranes could be increased with respect to permeance and flux recovery under cross-flow conditions. In order to test the applicability and stability of the coating layer, they were treated with basic and acidic cleaning agents as used in industry for fouled membranes. The chemical stability of the coating layer was studied under basic and acidic conditions, by systematic observation of the colour change of the coated membranes over treatment time.