bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Amyloid A Receptor Blockade and Incorporation into High-Density Lipoprotein Modulates Its Pro-Inflammatory and Pro-Thrombotic Activities on Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Chami Belal , Barrie Nicola , Cai Xiaoping , Wang Xiaosuo , Paul Moumita , Morton-Chandra Rebecca , Sharland Alexandra , Dennis Joanne , Freedman Saul , Witting Paul
Published: May 2015

The acute phase protein serum amyloid A (SAA), a marker of inflammation, induces expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic mediators including ICAM-1, VCAM-1, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and tissue factor (TF) in both monocytes/macrophages and endothelial cells, and induces endothelial dysfunction—a precursor to atherosclerosis. In this study, we determined the effect of pharmacological inhibition of known SAA receptors on pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic activities of SAA in human carotid artery endothelial cells (HCtAEC). HCtAEC were pre-treated with inhibitors of formyl peptide receptor-like-1 (FPRL-1), WRW4; receptor for advanced glycation-endproducts (RAGE), (endogenous secretory RAGE; esRAGE) and toll-like receptors-2/4 (TLR2/4) (OxPapC), before stimulation by added SAA. Inhibitor activity was also compared to high-density lipoprotein (HDL), a known inhibitor of SAA-induced effects on endothelial cells. SAA significantly increased gene expression of TF, NFκB and TNF and protein levels of TF and VEGF in HCtAEC. These effects were inhibited to variable extents by WRW4, esRAGE and OxPapC either alone or in combination, suggesting involvement of endothelial cell SAA receptors in pro-atherogenic gene expression. In contrast, HDL consistently showed the greatest inhibitory action, and often abrogated SAA-mediated responses. Increasing HDL levels relative to circulating free SAA may prevent SAA-mediated endothelial dysfunction and ameliorate atherogenesis.
Addisonian Crisis after Missed Diagnosis of Posttraumatic Hypopituitarism
Authors: Streetz-van der Werf Christine , Karges Wolfram , Blaum Marcus , Kreitschmann-Andermahr Ilonka
Published: May 2015

We report a case of a previously undiagnosed panhypopituitarism initially presenting as a full-blown Addisonian crisis with hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hypotension and neuropsychological symptoms, more than 30 years after a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). The patient also displayed clearly visible pathognomonic clinical signs of long-standing pituitary dysfunction. The case highlights the importance of being aware of endocrine sequelae even decades after serious TBI.
Manufacturing Ultrafine-Grained Ti-6Al-4V Bulk Rod Using Multi-Pass Caliber-Rolling
Authors: Lee Taekyung , Shih Donald , Lee Yongmoon , Lee Chong
Published: May 2015

Ultrafine-grained (UFG) Ti-6Al-4V alloy has attracted attention from the various industries due to its good mechanical properties. Although severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes can produce such a material, its dimension is generally limited to laboratory scale. The present work utilized the multi-pass caliber-rolling process to fabricate Ti-6Al-4V bulk rod with the equiaxed UFG microstructure. The manufactured alloy mainly consisted of alpha phase and showed the fiber texture with the basal planes parallel to the rolling direction. This rod was large enough to be used in the industry and exhibited comparable tensile properties at room temperature in comparison to SPD-processed Ti-6Al-4V alloys. The material also showed good formability at elevated temperature due to the occurrence of superplasticity. Internal-variable analysis was carried out to measure the contribution of deformation mechanisms at elevated temperatures in the manufactured alloy. This revealed the increasing contribution of phase/grain-boundary sliding at 1073 K, which explained the observed superplasticity.
Synthesis of a Functionalized Benzofuran as a Synthon for Salvianolic Acid C Analogues as Potential LDL Antioxidants
Authors: López-Frías Gabriela , Camacho-Dávila Alejandro , Chávez-Flores David , Zaragoza-Galán Gerardo , Ramos-Sánchez Víctor
Published: May 2015

A palladium mediated synthesis of a common synthon for the syntheses of antioxidant analogues of naturally occurring salvianolic acids is presented. The synthetic route may be used to obtain analogues with a balanced lipophilicity/hydrophilicity which may result in potentially interesting LDL antioxidants for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Synthesis, Antiproliferative and Antifungal Activities of 1,2,3-Triazole-Substituted Carnosic Acid and Carnosol Derivatives
Authors: Pertino Mariano , Theoduloz Cristina , Butassi Estefania , Zacchino Susana , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo
Published: May 2015

Abietane diterpenes exhibit an array of interesting biological activities, which have generated significant interest among the pharmacological community. Starting from the abietane diterpenes carnosic acid and carnosol, twenty four new triazole derivatives were synthesized using click chemistry. The compounds differ in the length of the linker and the substituent on the triazole moiety. The compounds were assessed as antiproliferative and antifungal agents. The antiproliferative activity was determined on normal lung fibroblasts (MRC-5), gastric epithelial adenocarcinoma (AGS), lung cancer (SK-MES-1) and bladder carcinoma (J82) cells while the antifungal activity was assessed against Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and Cryptococcus neoformans ATCC 32264. The carnosic acid γ-lactone derivatives 1–3 were the most active antiproliferative compounds of the series, with IC50 values in the range of 43.4–46.9 μM and 39.2–48.9 μM for MRC-5 and AGS cells, respectively. Regarding antifungal activity, C. neoformans was the most sensitive fungus, with nine compounds inhibiting more than 50% of its fungal growth at concentrations ≤250 µg∙mL−1. Compound 22, possessing a p-Br-benzyl substituent on the triazole ring, showed the best activity (91% growth inhibition) at 250 µg∙mL−1 In turn, six compounds inhibited 50% C. albicans growth at concentrations lower than 250 µg∙mL−1.
Synthesis, In-Vitro Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Molecular Modeling of Potent Anti-Microbial Agents with a Combined Pyrazole and Thiophene Pharmacophore
Authors: Mabkhot Yahia , Kaal Nahed , Alterary Seham , Al-Showiman Salim , Barakat Assem , Ghabbour Hazem , Frey Wolfgang
Published: May 2015

Ethyl 5-acetyl-4-methyl-2-(phenylamino)thiophene-3-carboxylate (2) and there derivatives 3a–c, 4, 6a–c and 9a–f were synthesized. The structure of compound 2 was deduced by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, MS, microanalysis, and single-crystal X-ray crystallography. The compound crystallized in the monoclinic system, with space group P21/c and cell coordinates a = 8.5752(16) Å, b = 21.046(4) Å, c = 8.2941(12) Å, β = 101.131(6)°, V = 1468.7(4) Å3, and Z = 4. Compounds 2, 3a–c, 4, 5a–c and 9a–f were subjected into in vitro antimicrobial activity tests. Compounds 3a and 3c were more potent than standard drug amphotericin B, showing MIC values of 23.8 ± 0.42 and 24.3 ± 0.68, respectively, against Aspergillus fumigatus while the standard drug MIC was 23.7 ± 0.1. Compound 3c was also more potent (MIC 24.8 ± 0.64) than the standard drug amphotericin B (MIC 19.7 ± 0.2) against Syncephalastrum racemosum. Compounds 4 and 9f also showed promising anti-microbial activity. Molecular modeling was performed for the most active compounds.
Development and Validation of a Docking-Based Virtual Screening Platform for the Identification of New Lactate Dehydrogenase Inhibitors
Authors: Granchi Carlotta , Capecchi Alice , Del Frate Gianluca , Martinelli Adriano , Macchia Marco , Minutolo Filippo , Tuccinardi Tiziano
Published: May 2015

The human muscle isoform of lactate dehydrogenase (hLDH5) is one of the key enzymes of the glycolytic process. It is overexpressed in metastatic cancer cells and is linked to the vitality of tumors in hypoxic conditions. With the aim of identifying new hLDH5 inhibitors, a fully automated docking-based virtual screening platform was developed by considering different protein conformations and the consensus docking strategy. In order to verify the reliability of the reported platform, a small database of about 10,000 compounds was filtered by using this method, and the top-ranked compounds were tested for their hLDH5 inhibition activity. Enzymatic assays revealed that, among the ten selected compounds, two proved to efficiently inhibit enzyme activity with IC50 values in the micromolar range. These results demonstrate the validity of the methodologies we followed, encouraging the application of larger virtual screening studies and further refinements of the platform. Furthermore, the two active compounds herein described may be considered as interesting leads for the development of new and more efficient LDH inhibitors.
A Structural Hierarchy Matching Approach for Molecular Similarity/Substructure Searching
Authors: Ji Shu-Shen , Dong Hong-Ju , Zhou Xin-Xin , Liu Ya-Min , Zhang Feng-Xue , Wang Qi , Huang Xin-An
Published: May 2015

An approach for molecular similarity/substructure searching based on structural hierarchy matching is proposed. In this approach, small molecules are divided into two categories, acyclic and cyclic forms. The latter are further divided into three structural hierarchies, namely, framework, complicated-, and mono-rings. During searching, the similarity coefficients of a structural query and each retrieved molecule are calculated using the hierarchy of the query as the reference. A total of 13,911 chemicals were involved in this work, from which the minimal cyclic and acyclic substructures are extracted, and further processed into fuzzy structural fingerprints. Subsequently, the fingerprints are used as the searching indices for molecular similarity or substructure searching. The tests show that this approach can give user options to choose between one-substructure and multi-substructure searching with sorted results. Moreover, this algorithm has the potential to be developed for molecular similarity searching and substructure analysis.
Almond Skin Inhibits HSV-2 Replication in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells by Modulating the Cytokine Network
Authors: Arena Adriana , Bisignano Carlo , Stassi Giovanna , Filocamo Angela , Mandalari Giuseppina
Published: May 2015

We have investigated the effect of almond skin extracts on the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PBMCs were either infected or not by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), with and without prior treatment with almond skin extracts. Production of IL-17 induced by HSV-2 was inhibited by natural skins (NS) treatment. NS triggered PBMC in releasing IFN-α, IFN-γ and IL-4 in cellular supernatants. These results may explain the antiviral potential of almond skins.
Selenium and Chronic Diseases: A Nutritional Genomics Perspective
Authors: Méplan Catherine
Published: May 2015

Mechanistic data have revealed a key role for selenium (Se) and selenoproteins in biological pathways known to be altered in multifactorial diseases, such as cellular maintenance, response to oxidative stress and correct protein folding. Although epidemiological studies indicate that low Se intake is linked to increased risk for various chronic diseases, supplementation trials have given confusing outcomes, suggesting that additional genetic factors could affect the relationship between Se and health. Genetic data support this hypothesis, as risk for several chronic diseases, in particular cancer, was linked to a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) altering Se metabolism, selenoprotein synthesis or activity. Interactions between SNPs in selenoprotein genes, SNPs in related molecular pathways and biomarkers of Se status were found to further modulate the genetic risk carried by the SNPs. Taken together, nutritional genomics approaches uncovered the potential implication of some selenoproteins as well as the influence of complex interactions between genetic variants and Se status in the aetiology of several chronic diseases. This review discusses the results from these genetic associations in the context of selenoprotein functions and epidemiological investigations and emphasises the need to assess in future studies the combined contribution of Se status, environmental stress, and multiple or individual SNPs to disease risk.
Sex Differences in the Impact of the Mediterranean Diet on LDL Particle Size Distribution and Oxidation
Authors: Bédard Alexandra , Corneau Louise , Lamarche Benoît , Dodin Sylvie , Lemieux Simone
Published: May 2015

Sex differences have been previously highlighted in the cardioprotective effects of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet). The objective of this study was to investigate whether sex differences also exist with regard to LDL particle size distribution and oxidation. Participants were 37 men and 32 premenopausal women (24–53 years) with slightly elevated LDL-C concentrations (3.4–4.9 mmol/L) or total cholesterol/HDL-C ≥5.0. Variables were measured before and after a four-week isoenergetic MedDiet. Sex differences were found in response to the MedDiet for the proportion of medium LDL (255–260 Å) (p for sex-by-time interaction = 0.01) and small, dense LDL (sdLDL; <255 Å) (trend; p for sex-by-time interaction = 0.06), men experiencing an increase in the proportion of medium LDL with a concomitant reduction in the proportion of sdLDL, while an opposite trend was observed in women. A sex difference was also noted for estimated cholesterol concentrations among sdLDL (p for sex-by-time interaction = 0.03), with only men experiencing a reduction in response to the MedDiet. The MedDiet marginally reduced oxidized LDL (oxLDL) concentrations (p = 0.07), with no sex difference. Results suggest that short-term consumption of the MedDiet leads to a favorable redistribution of LDL subclasses from smaller to larger LDL only in men. These results highlight the importance of considering sex issues in cardiovascular benefits of the MedDiet.
Activation of SsoPK4, an Archaeal eIF2α Kinase Homolog, by Oxidized CoA
Authors: Ray William , Potters Mark , Haile January , Kennelly Peter
Published: May 2015

The eukaryotic protein kinase (ePK) paradigm provides integral components for signal transduction cascades throughout nature. However, while so-called typical ePKs permeate the Eucarya and Bacteria, atypical ePKs dominate the kinomes of the Archaea. Intriguingly, the catalytic domains of the handful of deduced typical ePKs from the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus P2 exhibit significant resemblance to the protein kinases that phosphorylate translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) in response to cellular stresses. We cloned and expressed one of these archaeal eIF2α protein kinases, SsoPK4. SsoPK4 exhibited protein-serine/threonine kinase activity toward several proteins, including the S. solfataricus homolog of eIF2α, aIF2α. The activity of SsoPK4 was inhibited in vitro by 3ʹ,5ʹ-cyclic AMP (Ki of ~23 µM) and was activated by oxidized Coenzyme A, an indicator of oxidative stress in the Archaea. Activation enhanced the apparent affinity for protein substrates, Km, but had little effect on Vmax. Autophosphorylation activated SsoPK4 and rendered it insensitive to oxidized Coenzyme A.
Heart Rate Variability Monitoring during Sleep Based on Capacitively Coupled Textile Electrodes on a Bed
Authors: Lee Hong Ji , Hwang Su Hwan , Yoon Hee Nam , Lee Won Kyu , Park Kwang Suk
Published: May 2015

In this study, we developed and tested a capacitively coupled electrocardiogram (ECG) measurement system using conductive textiles on a bed, for long-term healthcare monitoring. The system, which was designed to measure ECG in a bed with no constraints of sleep position and posture, included a foam layer to increase the contact region with the curvature of the body and a cover to ensure durability and easy installation. Nine healthy subjects participated in the experiment during polysomnography (PSG), and the heart rate (HR) coverage and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters were analyzed to evaluate the system. The experimental results showed that the mean of R-peak coverage was 98.0% (95.5%–99.7%), and the normalized errors of HRV time and spectral measures between the Ag/AgCl system and our system ranged from 0.15% to 4.20%. The root mean square errors for inter-beat (RR) intervals and HR were 1.36 ms and 0.09 bpm, respectively. We also showed the potential of our developed system for rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and wake detection as well as for recording of abnormal states.
Welcome to Safety—A New Open Access Journal Helping Shape a Safer World
Authors: Grzebieta Raphael
Published: May 2015

Safety can be defined as the condition of being safe from undergoing or causing hurt, injury, or loss. It also includes assessing safety risks, including hazard prevention, control and management, a common requirement of occupational health and safety regulators and safety stakeholders around the world. Safety risk confronts us every day in almost every aspect of our lives; when we are at home, travelling to work, or school, or at the day care center or doing a bit of shopping, or going on vacation. Whether we work with others in an office or develop plans to build various forms of infrastructure or processing and manufacturing plants; whether we are the planners, designers and construction supervisors or one of the workers, we are all required to consider and implement the governing occupational health and safety (OH&S) requirements. There is also an implicit ‘duty of care’ expected from professionals who may be responsible, be it through planning, design or management, for the safety of others, whether directly or indirectly. Depending on the law of the land, the OH&S regulations set the legal safety criteria and benchmark of what is expected. [...]
Reimagining the Educational Field: Thoughts on a Critical Criminology of Education
Authors: Guebert Karl
Published: May 2015

Prompted by the need to expand the criminological enterprise, this paper makes a case for a critical criminology of education, one that takes a governance approach. It seeks to illustrate what such a criminology might entail by developing an analytic framework with which to analyze the educational field. The framework is put to use to provide an analytic discussion of Ontario education policy reformations concerning student discipline. Education was conceptualized by policymakers as an institution for disciplining and governing students, specifically through the concept of “bullying”. From this analysis, the paper suggests it is possible to theorize education as a “security apparatus”, one that is increasingly concerned with the governance of social (in)security and public safety. The discussion suggests that education is an important institution for governing by identifying one regulatory project that concerns student behavior both within and beyond the school. In so doing, the paper illustrates the creative process in developing a criminology of education, and the value of imaginative thinking within criminology.
Influence of Precipitation on Maize Yield in the Eastern United States
Authors: Huang Chengyi , Duiker Sjoerd , Deng Liangji , Fang Conggang , Zeng Weizhong
Published: May 2015

Most General Circulation Models predict more infrequent but larger precipitation events in the eastern United States combined with a warmer climate. This could have a negative effect on maize production. To understand the sensitivity of maize production to future changes in precipitation, we analyzed growing season precipitation and average state maize yields in the eastern United States for the period 1963–2011. Growing season precipitation did not show a strong trend during this period. However, crop yields increased at 3.90% in the southern, 2.62% in the central, and 2.31% in the northern part of the eastern United States, which we attributed to technology and management. To separate technology and management effects from precipitation variability, we corrected maize yields for these yield trends. We then correlated maize yield corrected for advances in technology and management with total growing season precipitation and precipitation in the critical month of pollination, from the regional to state scale. Maize yield - precipitation relationships showed that moisture shortage rather than excess determined maize yield in the Eastern United States. The relationship between total growing season precipitation-maize yield was stronger in the southeastern than in the northeastern U.S., but the critical month precipitation-maize yield relationship was stronger in the northeastern than in the southeastern U.S. If climate model predictions are accurate and total growing season precipitation will not decrease in this region but variability will, it is likely that maize yields in the northeastern U.S. will be more significantly affected.
Traceability the New Eco-Label in the Slow-Fashion Industry?—Consumer Perceptions and Micro-Organisations Responses
Authors: Henninger Claudia
Published: May 2015

This article focuses on eco-labels from the point of view of consumers and experts/owner-managers of micro-organisations. The analysis maps the 15 most common standardisations within the UK’s fashion industry and elaborates on their commonalities and differences, before exploring the perceptions held by both consumers and micro-companies. This paper presents preliminary findings of a wider research project with emphasis on the potential for future research and marketing implications. The study is interpretative in nature and provides detailed results that contribute to an understudied area.
Notes on the Quality of Life of Artisanal Small-Scale Fishermen along the Pacific Coast of Jalisco, México
Authors: Bravo-Olivas Myrna , Chávez-Dagostino Rosa , Malcolm Christopher , Espinoza-Sánchez Rodrigo
Published: May 2015

Sustainable fishing includes the socioeconomic status of fishers. We combined empirical quality of life (QOL) and subjective lived experiences methods to explore the social sustainability of artisanal fishers in five fishery collectives along the coast of Jalisco, Mexico, where the average daily income is slightly above the poverty level. The QOL scores were also related to annual catch and incomes within each collective. A QOL index is used in this study that combines importance and achievement ratings scores; the results are indicative of an acceptable QOL for fishermen. The concept of lived experiences, incorporating aspects of life relating to Mind, Body, Work and People was explored through interviews with 12 fishers. The QOL data revealed that family and friends are important indicators related to positive QOL reported by the sample, while economic indicators were not important. Although four of the five collectives perceived that the future looks worse than the present and past, there was limited correlation between catch or income and QOL. However, while the lived experiences exercise in part supported the QOL findings, in that People was the most important dimension for almost all of the fishers interviewed, negative economic gaps related to poor catches and incomes were prevalent in the Mind and Work dimensions. The findings suggest that to understand the socioeconomic component of sustainable fisheries, both of these approaches should be considered, as they can illuminate different aspects of fishers’ lives that need to be considered during the development of fisheries’ management policies.
Natural Compounds Interacting with Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors: From Low-Molecular Weight Ones to Peptides and Proteins
Authors: Kudryavtsev Denis , Shelukhina Irina , Vulfius Catherine , Makarieva Tatyana , Stonik Valentin , Zhmak Maxim , Ivanov Igor , Kasheverov Igor , Utkin Yuri , Tsetlin Victor
Published: May 2015

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) fulfill a variety of functions making identification and analysis of nAChR subtypes a challenging task. Traditional instruments for nAChR research are d-tubocurarine, snake venom protein α-bungarotoxin (α-Bgt), and α-conotoxins, neurotoxic peptides from Conus snails. Various new compounds of different structural classes also interacting with nAChRs have been recently identified. Among the low-molecular weight compounds are alkaloids pibocin, varacin and makaluvamines C and G. 6-Bromohypaphorine from the mollusk Hermissenda crassicornis does not bind to Torpedo nAChR but behaves as an agonist on human α7 nAChR. To get more selective α-conotoxins, computer modeling of their complexes with acetylcholine-binding proteins and distinct nAChRs was used. Several novel three-finger neurotoxins targeting nAChRs were described and α-Bgt inhibition of GABA-A receptors was discovered. Information on the mechanisms of nAChR interactions with the three-finger proteins of the Ly6 family was found. Snake venom phospholipases A2 were recently found to inhibit different nAChR subtypes. Blocking of nAChRs in Lymnaea stagnalis neurons was shown for venom C-type lectin-like proteins, appearing to be the largest molecules capable to interact with the receptor. A huge nAChR molecule sensible to conformational rearrangements accommodates diverse binding sites recognizable by structurally very different compounds.
Perfringolysin O: The Underrated Clostridium perfringens Toxin?
Authors: Verherstraeten Stefanie , Goossens Evy , Valgaeren Bonnie , Pardon Bart , Timbermont Leen , Haesebrouck Freddy , Ducatelle Richard , Deprez Piet , Wade Kristin , Tweten Rodney , Van Immerseel Filip
Published: May 2015

The anaerobic bacterium Clostridium perfringens expresses multiple toxins that promote disease development in both humans and animals. One such toxin is perfringolysin O (PFO, classically referred to as θ toxin), a pore-forming cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (CDC). PFO is secreted as a water-soluble monomer that recognizes and binds membranes via cholesterol. Membrane-bound monomers undergo structural changes that culminate in the formation of an oligomerized prepore complex on the membrane surface. The prepore then undergoes conversion into the bilayer-spanning pore measuring approximately 250–300 Å in diameter. PFO is expressed in nearly all identified C. perfringens strains and harbors interesting traits that suggest a potential undefined role for PFO in disease development. Research has demonstrated a role for PFO in gas gangrene progression and bovine necrohemorrhagic enteritis, but there is limited data available to determine if PFO also functions in additional disease presentations caused by C. perfringens. This review summarizes the known structural and functional characteristics of PFO, while highlighting recent insights into the potential contributions of PFO to disease pathogenesis.
Effect of PKC-β Signaling Pathway on Expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 in Different Cell Models in Response to Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)
Authors: Rempel Lisienny , Finco Alessandra , Maciel Rayana , Bosquetti Bruna , Alvarenga Larissa , Souza Wesley , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Stinghen Andréa
Published: May 2015

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are compounds classified as uremic toxins in patients with chronic kidney disease that have several pro-inflammatory effects and are implicated in the development of cardiovascular diseases. To explore the mechanisms of AGEs–endothelium interactions through the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) in the PKC-β pathway, we evaluated the production of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 in human endothelial cells (HUVECs), monocytes, and a coculture of both. AGEs were prepared by albumin glycation and characterized by absorbance and electrophoresis. The effect of AGEs on cell viability was assessed with an MTT assay. The cells were also treated with AGEs with and without a PKC-β inhibitor. MCP-1 and VCAM-1 in the cell supernatants were estimated by ELISA, and RAGE was evaluated by immunocytochemistry. AGEs exposure did not affect cell viability, but AGEs induced RAGE, MCP-1, and VCAM-1 expression in HUVECs. When HUVECs or monocytes were incubated with AGEs and a PKC-β inhibitor, MCP-1 and VCAM-1 expression significantly decreased. However, in the coculture, exposure to AGEs and a PKC-β inhibitor produced no significant effect. This study demonstrates, in vitro, the regulatory mechanisms involved in MCP-1 production in three cellular models and VCAM-1 production in HUVECs, and thus mimics the endothelial dysfunction caused by AGEs in early atherosclerosis. Such mechanisms could serve as therapeutic targets to reduce the harmful effects of AGEs in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Effect of Incident Rainfall Redistribution by Maize Canopy on Soil Moisture at the Crop Row Scale
Authors: Martello Marco , Ferro Nicola , Bortolini Lucia , Morari Francesco
Published: May 2015

The optimization of irrigation use in agriculture is a key challenge to increase farm profitability and reduce its ecological footprint. To this context, an understanding of more efficient irrigation systems includes the assessment of water redistribution at the microscale. This study aimed to investigate rainfall interception by maize canopy and to model the soil water dynamics at row scale as a result of rain and sprinkler irrigation with HYDRUS 2D/3D. On average, 78% of rainfall below the maize canopy was intercepted by the leaves and transferred along the stem (stemflow), while only 22% reached the ground directly (throughfall). In addition, redistribution of the water with respect to the amount (both rain and irrigation) showed that the stemflow/throughfall ratio decreased logarithmically at increasing values of incident rainfall, suggesting the plant capacity to confine the water close to the roots and diminish water stress conditions. This was also underlined by higher soil moisture values observed in the row than in the inter-row at decreasing rainfall events. Modelled data highlighted different behavior in terms of soil water dynamics between simulated irrigation water distributions, although they did not show significant changes in terms of crop water use efficiency. These results were most likely affected by the soil type (silty-loam) where the experiment was conducted, as it had unfavorable physical conditions for the rapid vertical water movement that would have increased infiltration and drainage.
Circulating Angiogenic Factors and the Risk of Preeclampsia in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Pregnancies
Authors: Leaños-Miranda Alfredo , Campos-Galicia Inova , Berumen-Lechuga María Guadalupe , Molina-Pérez Carlos José , García-Paleta Yolanda , Isordia-Salas Irma , Ramírez-Valenzuela Karla Leticia
Published: May 2015

Objective.

To investigate whether angiogenic factors are associated with risk of developing preeclampsia in pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods.

We performed a nested case–control study within a cohort of SLE women with singleton pregnancies. The study included 42 patients with SLE who eventually developed preeclampsia and 75 normal SLE pregnancies. Serum samples were collected at 4-week intervals (from weeks 12 to 36). Serum samples were analyzed for soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental growth factor (PlGF), and soluble endoglin (sEng).

Results.

Women destined to develop preeclampsia had lower PlGF levels and higher sFlt-1 and sEng levels, and a higher sFlt-1/PlGF ratio than normal pregnancies. These changes became significant at 12 weeks in patients destined to develop either early onset (< 34 weeks, p ≤ 0.003) or late-onset preeclampsia (≥ 34 weeks, p ≤ 0.02). The risk to develop preeclampsia was higher among patients with PlGF concentration values in the lowest quartile or with sFlt-1 and sEng levels, and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, in the highest quartile of the normal SLE pregnancies distribution. The OR were higher and appeared earlier in patients destined to develop early onset preeclampsia (OR ≥ 16.2, from Week 12 onward) than in patients who presented preeclampsia later (OR ≥ 8.9, from Week 24 onward).

Conclusion.

Changes in circulating concentrations of sFlt-1, PlGF, sEng, and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio precede the onset of preeclampsia in SLE pregnancies. The risk profile of circulating angiogenic factors for developing preeclampsia distinctly evolves depending on whether this condition is manifested earlier or later.
First-Principles Study of Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of V-Doped CrSi2
Authors: Gui Fang , Zhou Shi Yun , Yan Wan Jun , Zhang Chun Hong , Chen Shao Bo
Published: May 2015

The electronic structure and optical properties of V-doped CrSi2 have been calculated by using the first-principle peudo-potential plane-wave method based on the density functional theory.The parameters and properties of structure were given and the theory data were offered to research the effect of V doping into CrSi2. The calculations of energy band structure, total density of states, partial density of states of V-doped CrSi2were analysed. Fermi level enters into valence band which makes the V-doped CrSi2to be p-type semiconductor that improves the electrical conductivity of material. Additionally, the optical parameters of V-doped CrSi2were also discussed. It was found that both static dielectric constant and static refractive index increase after doping.
Dry Sliding Wear Resistance of the In Situ Al2O3/Al-Si Composites Fabricated in Al-SiO2 by Reaction Hot Pressing
Authors: Mokhnache El Oualid , Wang Gui Song , Geng Lin
Published: May 2015

The dry sliding characteristics of three in situ Al2O3/Al-Si composites fabricated with volume fraction of 10, 20 and 30 vol.% were investigated. The effect of sliding parameters on the wear properties was investigated. As the sliding velocity increases the wear loss decreases systematically. When the volume fraction increased to 20 vol.%, an improvement of wear resistance was obtained. However, when the volume fraction was 30 vol.%, a further decrease of wear resistance was observed. In case of low volume fraction (10 vol.%), an extensive plastic deformation by plowing out the ductile Al matrix along with narrow grooves was observed. As the volume fraction increased to 20 vol.%, the abrasive wear by micro grooving is dominant as well as the low load is used. Whereas, when the volume fraction increased to 30 vol.%, besides the effect of large pores, the embedded Al2O3 in the massive Si blocks formed a weaker interface thereby behaving as source of crakes initiation and propagation. As result, fracture, micro-cutting and delaminating are observed as dominant abrasive wear mechanisms
Factors Influencing Foam Height in Gas Injection Process for Aluminum Foams
Authors: Yuan Jian Yu , Li Yan Xiang , Chen Xiang , Zhou Yu Tong
Published: May 2015

The present study proposed a convenient method to characterize the stability of aluminum foams by utilizing the resulting foam height. The factors influencing foam height in gas injection process was investigated including the blowing gas (N2 and air), particle content (5vol.%-15vol.%), gas flow rate (0.03m3/h-0.3m3/h) and orifice size (0.3mm and 0.5mm). Factors that contribute to the foam stability including oxygen in the blowing gas and larger particle content in the melt was proved to be positively related to the foam height. Moreover, it was found that larger gas flow rate and smaller orifice size lead to larger foam height. The cell wall microstructure and thickness was also analyzed to better understand the foaming behavior. The present study offers favorable proof that the foam height in the gas injection process can be a good index for the foam stability.
Computational Results Show Gas Phase Reactions Have Great Impact on the Deposition Rate of Silicon in Siemens CVD Reactors
Authors: Ni Hao Yin , Chen Cai Xia
Published: May 2015

Over 80% of solar grade silicon is produced by using Siemens process. The chemical and physical phenomenon involved in the Siemens CVD reactors is very complex. For the purpose of finding the effect of gas phase reactions on the deposition rate of silicon in Siemens CVD reactors, four different gas phase reaction routes were applied in computational simulations using a commercial software Ansys Fluent. The simulation results show that the gas phase reaction mechanisms have great impact on the predicted Si growth rates. Specifically, the silicon growth rates decrease with an increase in HCl concentration on the rods’ surfaces with a fixed surface temperature. The formation of SiCl4, however, shows insignificant impacts on the growth rate of Si, and the surface concentration of SiCl4 is not directly associated with that of HCl.
Production of Noval Turkish Delight (Lokum) with Fruit Syrups
Authors: Batu Ali
Published: May 2015

An old Turkish aphorism tells one to ‘‘eat sweetly and speak sweetly”. Sweets have always been an important component of the Turkish cuisine. The origin of Turkish delight (lokum) dates back to the time of the Ottoman. The beginning of the production of lokum is estimated to be in the 14th and 15th centuries, and its production had reached today’s form in the 19th century. Sour cherry is high in phenolic substances and anthocyanin compounds, which are important for human health. Lokumproduced with sour cherry and black grape syrups has antioxidant activity not been produced yet by adding fruit concentrates. A lokum rich in polyphenol and antioxidant compounds can be produced using with some special fruit concentrates. Lokum is produced by mixing sugar and some water in certain fractions, and by adding fruits or nuts to the mixture. After dissolving the sugar in water and then adding the starch milk, a temperature of about 40°C is set, then 30 g citric acid is added and finally, the cooking time is started. After the mixture started to boil, the steam fan of the boiler is operated. The sour cherry and black grape syrups are added into the mixture could make the product healthier. This mixture is heated for a certain time at a certain temperature in an open vessel or steam jacketed tank with an agitator. Cooking time is changed from 1 to 2 h according to the vessel’s type. Hot lokum fluid is dripped onto a wooden table or steel tray which has some starch on it. Then thelokum is left to ripen for 24 hours at room temperature. Lastly, the lokum samples are manually cut and then going to be packed, then it is marketed.
CFD Simulation of Enhanced Oil Recovery Using Nanosilica/Supercritical CO2
Authors: Ghanad Dezfully Malahat , Jafari Arezou , Gharibshahi Reza
Published: May 2015

In this study series of runs were done by a CFD technique in which the injected fluid is nanoparticles/supercritical CO2. Geometry of the porous medium was created with the commercial grid generation tool (Gambit software). Continuity, momentum and volume fraction equations were solved based on the finite volume method. The benefits of existing nanoparticles in the gas injection process have been investigated. The numerical results show that addition of nanosilica into the supercritical CO2improves the oil recovery. It was also found that by increasing the nanoparticles concentration from 1 Vol. % to 2 Vol. %, the oil recovery factor increases about 5%. In addition, obtained results confirmed that by injecting the nanofluid fingers are reduced. The displacing fluid containing nanoparticles is more efficient than the supercritical CO2in sweeping the in-situ oil.
Heat-Resistant Coatings on the Basis of Phenol-Formaldehyde Compositions
Authors: Krasinskyi Volodymyr , Spišák Emil , Gajdoš Ivan , Garbacz Tomasz
Published: May 2015

The determination of the effect of composition formula and hardening conditions on technological characteristics of developed thermostable enamels on the basis of phenol-formaldehyde resins modified by epoxy resin and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was the task of this work. The mechanism of resins modification and hardening has been determined. The developed modified composition is characterized by high index of thixotropy in contrast to phenol-formaldehyde resin (PFR) containing urotropine. It was determined that novolac phenol-formaldehyde resin modification by PVP and ED-20 results in a significant improvement of thixotropic characteristics and enamel technological effectiveness and in physico-mechanical properties and thermostability improvement as well.
Study of Calcium Phosphate (OCP) Electrodeposition Process on Elektron 21 Magnesium Alloy Surface
Authors: Omasta Miroslav , Hadzima Branislav
Published: May 2015

Contribution deals with evaluation of the electrodeposition process of octacalcium phosphate layer on the surface of Elektron 21 magnesium alloy. The octacalcium phosphate coating (OCP) was electrochemically deposited in a solution containing 0.167 M CaCl2and 0.1 M NH4H2PO4. The formation of calcium phosphate was divided into several stages and described using light microscopy. The influence of octacalcium phosphate layer on the electrochemical characteristics of Elektron 21 magnesium alloy was evaluated by potentiodynamic measurements in 0.1 M NaCl solution at a temperature 22 ± 1°C. Evaluation of calcium phosphating process realized on the alloy surface after grinding was investigated by electrochemical tests supported by photodocumentation using stereomicroscope.
The Corrosion Characteristics of AlSi1MgMn
Authors: Lacková Petra , Mihaliková Mária , Cervová Jana , Lišková Anna
Published: May 2015

The paper presents the evaluation of corrosion resistance of aluminium alloy AlSi1MgMn. This alloy is used above all in any atmospheric conditions. The corrosion resistance of the alloy was evaluated by determining the open circuit potential (OCP) in solution SARS (this solution simulates the industrial atmosphere) after the 10 months of exposure time. The surface of aluminum alloys were analyzed by using energy dispersive X-ray analysis after the exposure time. The basic of corrosion characteristics (corrosion potential Ecorr, corrosion rate icorr and polarization resistance Rp) were determined by potenciodynamic measurements according to Tafel’s and Stern’s methods.
Electrochemical Characteristics of Mechanically Treated Metallic Surfaces
Authors: Brezinová Janette , Guzanová Anna , Draganovská Dagmar , Koncz Juraj
Published: May 2015

The paper presents the results of research aimed at determining the corrosive properties of steel surfaces after mechanical treatment by grinding and blasting. The aim of the study was to determine the changes in the electrochemical characteristics of the material during exposure in the 1 M NaCl solution in distilled water, and establish the optimal time of application the coatings on pre-treated surface without reducing the adhesion. With help of potentiodynamic tests and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy there were determined polarization resistance (Rp), the anodic and cathodic Tafel plots, corrosion current (Icorr)​​, corrosion rate (rcorr) and corrosion potential (Ecorr). The results pointed to the fact that after the mechanical treatment by grinding and blasting with aluminum oxide and steel shot the highest surface activity was found within 1 hour since the pretreatment. After this time, the activity decreases and corrosion products appear causing a reduction in adhesion of subsequently applied coatings. After blasting with cut wire the reduction of the adhesion appear not before 8 hours after blasting because of the different shape of the resulting surface. Potentiodynamic test proved that the highest corrosion rate showed a ground surface. Lower corrosion rate reached blasted surfaces depending on the type of abrasive used, which is closely related to the kinetic energy of the impacting grains and the actual surface area.
The Study of Parameters of Surface Roughness by the Correlation Analysis
Authors: Draganovská Dagmar , Ižaríková Gabriela , Brezinová Janette , Guzanová Anna
Published: May 2015

The paper deals with evaluation of relation between individual parameters of roughness of the blasted surfaces by the correlation analysis. Based on the measured values on the surfaces which were blasted by various types of blasting devices, the correlation matrix was set and the standard of statistic importance of correlation between the monitored parameters was determined from it. The correlation coefficient was also set.
Defectometry Analysis of Surface Condition Damaged with Corrosion Pitting
Authors: Maruschak Pavlo , Konovalenko Igor , Guzanová Anna , Sydor Petro , Panin Sergey V.
Published: May 2015

The dismantled tubes of the steam-boiler operated by the “Kalush Heat and Power Plant” were investigated. Defects of various nature, pitting of the indefinite shape were found during the examination. Since pitting is a deepening in the material and contains dark products of the corrosion process. It looks like a darkened area that stands out against the light background of the non-damaged surface in the optical images. The efficiency of such processing for identification of the corrosion defects is analyzed. The suitability of the proposed methods for the calculation of Shannon entropy of the surface analyzed was tested, as well as for determining the area and number of pitting defects.
Corrosion Protection of Structural Steelwork by a Duplex Coating System
Authors: Siostrzonek René , Pavelková Daniela , Koldová Lenka , Podjuklová Jitka , Strzyž Petr
Published: May 2015

Steel constructions are an integral part of our lives, surrounding us almost everywhere. They are used for erection of various halls, bridge structures, railings etc. Each steelwork is more or less impaired by corrosion, respectively a certain level of corrosion aggressiveness of the environment. Corrosion is the cause of material degradation - referred to rusting. In order to avoid this unwanted phenomenon to the maximum extent possible, we use various methods and technologies protecting the relevant material and preventing from corrosion occurrence and development. This article deals with one of the methods aimed at corrosion protection of structural steelwork - duplex coating system that is assured by means of hot dip galvanizing followed by paint system application.
The Effect of Polypyrrole on Corrosive Properties of Organic Coatings Containing High Amounts of Zinc Metal Particles
Authors: Kohl Miroslav , Kalendová Andréa
Published: May 2015

The objective of this paper concerns reducing the zinc metal content in organic coatings while preserving their high mechanical efficiency. The two goals can be achieved by using conductive polymer as components of the protective coating. Polypyrrole (PPy) was investigated as the conductive polymer. PPy was specified using physico-chemical parameters. As a binder, the epoxy ester resin was used. Organic coatings were prepared by combining zinc metal with PPy. The anticorrosive efficiency of the prepared films was evaluated using the results of direct corrosion tests.
The Effect of Shot Peening on the Surface Topography and Fatigue Strength of Selected Sheets
Authors: Bąk Łukasz , Bucior Magdalena , Stachowicz Felix , Zielecki Władysław
Published: May 2015

Numerous investigations have been performed in an attempt to improve fatigue strength of materials by creating compressive residual stresses in the surface layers as a result of the shot peening process. For example, during exploitation of the separating screener, some parts of screen sieve plate situated near the fixed edge undergo the largest deformation caused by impact bending and need special treatment. In this paper, the results of experimental tests are presented to analyse the effect of micro shot peening on surface layer characteristics and fatigue strength of steel sheet specimens. The effect of shot peening is more visible when fatigue life is taking into account. Thus, the use of shot peening of sheet surface made it possible to increase fatigue life of screener sieve.
Measurement of the Limit Strains on TS 245 Tinplate
Authors: Tomáš Miroslav , Slota Ján , Spišák Emil , Hudák Juraj
Published: May 2015

The paper deals with measurement of limit strains for tinplate TS 245 made by US Steel with nominal thickness 0.3 mm. The FLC curve has been measured by implementation of Nakajima test on testing device Erichsen 145-60. The Nakajima test has been measured according to EN ISO 12004-2. Limit strains have been measured using 3D photogrammetric system Argus by GOM. Forming limit curve was evaluated in the software Argus. During test, some problems have been solved concerning friction on hemispherical punch which affected fracture position on the dome. Reached FLC curve was implemented in material database of PAM-Stamp 2G simulation software.