bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Stability Criterion for IoT Systems in Smart Buildings: Temperature Case Study
Authors: Casado-Vara Roberto , Martín del Rey Angel , Alonso Ricardo S. , Trabelsi Saber , Corchado Juan M.
Published: August 2020

The concept of smart cities emerged in the 1990s. Since then, smart buildings have become a closely interconnected element of smart cities. This type of building implements Internet of Things technology and control algorithms to monitor and control their indoor environment. The aim of this paper is to develop a new stability criterion method for smart building Internet of Things (IoT) systems, subject to external disturbances. The new stability criterion is going to optimize the operation of control algorithms since this criterion does not depend on the transmission function of the control algorithm but on the data collected by the IoT system. We present a new matrix called “Laplacian IoT matrix”, containing IoT network information associated with the graph of a smart building. The proposal is supported by the results of a numerical case study.
Is it Safe for Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices to Undergo Non-Cardiac Surgery?
Authors: Berger Rafal , Nemeth Attila , Salewski Christoph , Sandoval Boburg Rodrigo , Acharya Metesh , Weymann Alexander , Zhigalov Konstantin , Schmack Bastian , Sá Michel Pompeu B. O. , Schlensak Christian , Popov Aron-Frederik
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives: Since the first use of ventricular assist devices (VADs) as bridge to recovery and bridge to cardiac transplantation in the early 1990s, significant technological advances have transformed VAD implantation into a routine destination therapy. With improved survival, many patients present for cardiac surgery for conditions not directly related to their permanent mechanical circulatory support. The aim of this study was to analyze the indications and outcomes of non-cardiac surgeries (NCSs) of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients in tertiary center. Material and Methods: We present a single-center experience after 151 LVAD implantations in 138 consecutive patients between 2012–2019 who had to undergo NCS during a follow-up period of 37 +/− 23.4 months on left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Results: A total of 105 procedures was performed in 63 LVAD recipients, resulting in peri-operative mortality of 3.8%. Twenty-five (39.7%) of patients underwent multiple surgeries. We found no significant difference in cumulative survival associated with the performed surgical interventions (p = 0.469). Conclusion: We demonstrated good overall clinical outcomes in LVAD patients undergoing NCS. With acceptable peri-operative mortality, NCS can be safely performed in LVAD patients on long-term support.
Dermatological Manifestations in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Diaconescu Smaranda , Strat Silvia , Balan Gheorghe G. , Anton Carmen , Stefanescu Gabriela , Ioniuc Ileana , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives: Over the last years, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been reported on a high incidence in pediatric populations and has been associated with numerous extraintestinal manifestations, making its management a real challenge for the pediatric gastroenterologist. Dermatological manifestations in IBD are either specific, related to the disease activity or treatment-associated, or non-specific. This literature review aims to identify and report the dermatological manifestations of IBD in children, the correlation between their appearance and the demographical characteristics, the relationship between these lesions and disease activity, and to highlight the impact of dermatological manifestations on an IBD treatment regime. Materials and Methods: A systemic literature review was performed, investigating articles and case reports on dermatological manifestations in children with IBD starting from 2005. A total of 159 potentially suitable articles were identified and after the exclusion process, 75 articles were selected. Results: The most common dermatological manifestations reported in pediatric IBD are erythema nodosum and pyoderma gangrenosum. More rare cases of metastatic Crohn’s disease, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, small-vessel vasculitis, necrotizing vasculitis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa, and Sweet’s syndrome have been reported. Oral manifestations of IBD are divided into specific (tag-like lesions, mucogingivitis, lip swelling with vertical fissures, aphthous stomatitis, and pyostomatitis vegetans) and non-specific. IBD treatment may present with side effects involving the skin and mucosa. Anti-tumor necrosis factor agents have been linked to opportunistic skin infections, psoriasiform lesions, and a potentially increased risk for skin cancer. Cutaneous manifestations such as acrodermatitis enteropathica, purpuric lesions, and angular cheilitis may appear secondary to malnutrition and/or malabsorption. Conclusions: The correct diagnosis of dermatological manifestations in pediatric IBD is of paramount importance because of their impact on disease activity, treatment options, and a patient’s psychological status.
Transition from Childhood to Adulthood in Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Wasilewska Eliza , Małgorzewicz Sylwia , Sobierajska-Rek Agnieszka , Jabłońska-Brudło Joanna , Górska Lucyna , Śledzińska Karolina , Bautembach-Minkowska Joanna , Wierzba Jolanta
Published: August 2020

Recently, progress has been observed in the knowledge about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), which is a severe and commonly diagnosed genetic myopathy in childhood, historically resulting in early death. Currently, there are a lot of methods available to improve the clinical course of DMD and extend patients’ life expectancy to more than 30 years of age. The key issue for DMD patients is the period between 16–18 years of age, which is described as a transition from pediatric- to adult-oriented healthcare. Adolescents and adults with DMD have highly complex healthcare needs associated with long-term steroid usage, orthopedic, ventilation, cardiac, and gastrointestinal problems. The current paper provides a comprehensive overview of special healthcare needs related to the transfer of a patient with DMD from child-oriented to adult-oriented care. Additionally, the need to organize effective care for adults with DMD is presented.
Controlling Segregation Behavior of Primary Si in Hypereutectic Al-Si Alloy by Electromagnetic Stirring
Authors: Zou Qingchuan , Tian Hao , Zhang Zixu , Sun Chengzhuo , Jie Jinchuan , Han Ning , An Xizhong
Published: August 2020

Controlling the segregation behavior of primary Si in the solidification process of hypereutectic Al-Si alloy is crucial for enhancing the design ability of the solidification structure. To explore the separation condition and morphological evolution of primary Si in detail, a series of experiments concerning the coupling effect of a temperature field and electromagnetic stirring on the segregation behavior of primary Si were carried out. Experimental results show that the temperature field and fluid flow in the melt are two key points for controlling the segregation behavior of primary Si. The establishment of a temperature gradient in the Al-Si melt is a precondition for realizing the separation of primary Si. On the basis of the temperature gradient, the electromagnetic stirring can further strengthen the separation effect for primary Si, forming a Si-rich layer with 65~70 wt.% Si content. The formation of the Si-rich layer is a continuous growth process of primary Si by absorbing Si atoms from Al-Si melt with the help of electromagnetic stirring. The separation technology for primary Si is proposed to realize the segregation control of primary Si, which not only broadens the application of Al-Si alloys in the functionally gradient composites but also provides a low-cost supply strategy of Si raw materials for the solar photovoltaic industry.
Nanoindentation Creep, Elastic Properties, and Shear Strength Correlated with the Structure of Sn-9Zn-0.5nano-Ag Alloy for Advanced Green Electronics
Authors: Gain Asit Kumar , Zhang Liangchi
Published: August 2020

This work investigates the influence of an Ag nanoparticle addition on the microstructure, microhardness, creep, temperature-dependent elastic properties, damping capacity, and shear strength of an environmentally friendly eutectic Sn-9Zn (wt.%) material. A microstructure analysis confirmed that adding Ag nanoparticles significantly altered the morphologies of the Zn-rich phase, which includes the size and shape in the presence of fine spherical-shaped AgZn3 intermetallic compound (IMC) particles in the β-Sn matrix. These fine microstructures positively impact on microhardness, creep, damping capacity, and temperature-dependent elastic properties. Furthermore, in the electronic interconnection on an Au/Ni-plated-Cu pad ball grid array (BGA) substrate, adding Ag nanoparticles generates an additional AgZn3 IMC layer at the top surface of the AuZn3 IMC layer. It also significantly improves the oxidation resistance of Sn-Zn material due to the formation of fine AgZn3 IMC particles. Moreover, the interfacial shear strength value of the Sn-Zn material doped with Ag nanoparticles on the Au/Ni-Cu pad BGA substrate increased about 12% as compared to the reference material after five minutes of reaction in the presence of a fine Zn-rich phase and AgZn3 IMC particles, which acted as second phase dispersion strengthening mechanism. Adding Ag nanoparticles also altered the fracture mode to a typical ductile failure with rough dimpled surfaces of the Sn-Zn material.
Lipid Players of Cellular Senescence
Authors: Millner Alec , Atilla-Gokcumen G. Ekin
Published: August 2020

Lipids are emerging as key players of senescence. Here, we review the exciting new findings on the diverse roles of lipids in cellular senescence, most of which are enabled by the advancements in omics approaches. Senescence is a cellular process in which the cell undergoes growth arrest while retaining metabolic activity. At the organismal level, senescence contributes to organismal aging and has been linked to numerous diseases. Current research has documented that senescent cells exhibit global alterations in lipid composition, leading to extensive morphological changes through membrane remodeling. Moreover, senescent cells adopt a secretory phenotype, releasing various components to their environment that can affect the surrounding tissue and induce an inflammatory response. All of these changes are membrane and, thus, lipid related. Our work, and that of others, has revealed that fatty acids, sphingolipids, and glycerolipids are involved in the initiation and maintenance of senescence and its associated inflammatory components. These studies opened up an exciting frontier to investigate the deeper mechanistic understanding of the regulation and function of these lipids in senescence. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive snapshot of the current state of the field and share our enthusiasm for the prospect of potential lipid-related protein targets for small-molecule therapy in pathologies involving senescence and its related inflammatory phenotypes.
Cyclic Di-adenosine Monophosphate Regulates Metabolism and Growth in the Oral Commensal Streptococcus mitis
Authors: Rørvik Gro Herredsvela , Liskiewicz Krystyna Anna , Kryuchkov Fedor , Naemi Ali-Oddin , Aasheim Hans-Christian , Petersen Fernanda C. , Küntziger Thomas M. , Simm Roger
Published: August 2020

Cyclic di-adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) has emerged as an important bacterial signaling molecule that functions both as an intracellular second messenger in bacterial cells and an extracellular ligand involved in bacteria-host cross-talk. In this study, we identify and characterize proteins involved in controlling the c-di-AMP concentration in the oral commensal and opportunistic pathogen Streptococcusmitis (S. mitis). We identified three known types of c-di-AMP turnover proteins in the genome of S. mitis CCUG31611: a CdaA-type diadenylate cyclase as well as GdpP-, and DhhP-type phosphodiesterases. Biochemical analyses of purified proteins demonstrated that CdaA synthesizes c-di-AMP from ATP whereas both phosphodiesterases can utilize c-di-AMP as well as the intermediary metabolite of c-di-AMP hydrolysis 5′-phosphadenylyl-adenosine (pApA) as substrate to generate AMP, albeit at different catalytic efficiency. Using deletion mutants of each of the genes encoding c-di-AMP turnover proteins, we show by high resolution MS/MS that the intracellular concentration of c-di-AMP is increased in deletion mutants of the phosphodiesterases and non-detectable in the cdaA-mutant. We also detected pApA in mutants of the DhhP-type phosphodiesterase. Low and high levels of c-di-AMP were associated with longer and shorter chains of S. mitis, respectively indicating a role in regulation of cell division. The deletion mutant of the DhhP-type phosphodiesterase displayed slow growth and reduced rate of glucose metabolism.
The Role of Pea (Pisum sativum) Seeds in Transmission of Entero-Aggregative Escherichia coli to Growing Plants
Authors: S. van Overbeek Leonard , Lombaers-van der Plas Carin , van der Zouwen Patricia
Published: August 2020

Crop plants can become contaminated with human pathogenic bacteria in agro-production systems. Some of the transmission routes of human pathogens to growing plants are well explored such as water, manure and soil, whereas others are less explored such as seeds. Fenugreek seeds contaminated with the entero-hemorrhagic Escherichia coli O104:H4 were suspected to be the principle vectors for transmission of the pathogen to sprouts at the food-borne disease outbreak in Hamburg and surrounding area in 2011. In this study we raised the questions of whether cells of the entero-aggregative E. coli O104:H4 strain 55989 is capable of colonizing developing plants from seeds and if it would be possible that, via plant internalization, these cells can reach the developing embryonic tissue of the next generation of seeds. To address these questions, we followed the fate of strain 55989 and of two other E. coli strains from artificially contaminated seeds to growing plants, and from developing flower tissue to mature seeds upon proximate introductions to the plant reproductive organs. Escherichia coli strains differing in origin, adherence properties to epithelial cells, and virulence profile were used in our experimentation to relate eventual differences in seed and plant colonization to typical E. coli properties. Experiments were conducted under realistic growth circumstances in greenhouse and open field settings. Entero-aggregative E. coli strain 55989 and the two other E. coli strains were able to colonize the root compartment of pea plants from inoculated seeds. In roots and rhizosphere soil, the strains could persist until the senescent stage of plant growth, when seeds had ripened. Colonization of the above-soil parts was only temporary at the start of plant growth for all three E. coli strains and, therefore, the conclusion was drawn that translocation of E. coli cells via the vascular tissue of the stems to developing pea seeds seems unlikely under circumstances realistic for agricultural practices. Proximate introductions of cells of E. coli strains to developing flowers also did not result in internal seed contamination, indicating that internal seed contamination with E. coli is an unlikely event. The fact that all three E. coli strains showed stronger preference for the root-soil zones of growing pea plants than for the above soil plant compartments, in spite of their differences in clinical behaviour and origin, indicate that E. coli in general will colonize root compartments of crop plants in production systems.
A First Insight into the Structural and Functional Comparison of Environmental Microbiota in Freshwater Turtle Chinemys reevesii at Different Growth Stages under Pond and Greenhouse Cultivation
Authors: Zhou Aiguo , Xie Shaolin , Sun Di , Zhang Pan , Dong Han , Zuo Zhiheng , Li Xiang , Zou Jixing
Published: August 2020

The microbial community structure of water is an important indicator for evaluating the water quality of the aquaculture environment. In this study, the investigation and comparison of the bacterial communities of pond cultivation (PC) and greenhouse cultivation (GC) between hatchling, juvenile, and adult growth stages of C. reevesii were performed. In addition, the V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were sequenced. The Chao1 richness estimator of the PC group was significantly higher than that of the GC group. The beta diversity showed that the microbiotas of the two groups were isolated from each other. The dominant phyla were Cyanobacteria, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Verrucomicrobia, and Planctomycetes in the PC group and Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Cyanobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Actinobacteria in the GC group. Both the numbers and the types of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway annotations differed between the PC and GC groups. The prediction of bacterial phenotype implied that the GC environment is more likely to deteriorate, and turtles are more susceptible to pathogens than those of the PC environment. In addition, a total of nine potential pathogenic bacteria were identified and the correlation of environmental factors analyses showed significant differences of bacterial species between the PC and GC groups, while the potential pathogenic bacteria showed significant correlation with the stocking density, temperature, pH, orthophosphate (PO4-P), and dissolved oxygen (DO) in both the PC and GC groups. Noticeably, this is the first report to describe the different microbiota characteristics of the different cultivation environments in the different growth stages of C. reevesii, which will provide valuable data for water quality adjustment, disease prevention, and the healthy breeding of turtles.
Composition and Metabolic Functions of the Microbiome in Fermented Grain during Light-Flavor Baijiu Fermentation
Authors: Huang Xiaoning , Fan Yi , Lu Ting , Kang Jiamu , Pang Xiaona , Han Beizhong , Chen Jingyu
Published: August 2020

The metabolism and accumulation of flavor compounds in Chinese Baijiu are driven by microbiota succession and their inter-related metabolic processes. Changes in the microbiome composition during Baijiu production have been examined previously; however, the respective metabolic functions remain unclear. Using shotgun metagenomic sequencing and metabolomics, we examined the microbial and metabolic characteristics during light-flavor Baijiu fermentation to assess the correlations between microorganisms and their potential functions. During fermentation, the bacterial abundance increased from 58.2% to 97.65%, and fermentation resulted in the accumulation of various metabolites, among which alcohols and esters were the most abundant. Correlation analyses revealed that the levels of major metabolites were positively correlated with bacterial abundance but negatively with that of fungi. Gene annotation showed that the Lactobacillus species contained key enzyme genes for carbohydrate metabolism and contributed to the entire fermentation process. Lichtheimia ramosa, Saccharomycopsis fibuligera, Bacillus licheniformis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Pichia kudriavzevii play major roles in starch degradation and ethanol production. A link was established between the composition and metabolic functions of the microbiota involved in Baijiu fermentation, which helps elucidate microbial and metabolic patterns of fermentation and provides insights into the potential optimization of Baijiu production.
The Impact of the Postpartum “Doing-the-Month” Practice on Human Milk Microbiota: A Pilot Study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Po-Wen , Kuo Yu-Hsien , Lin Yi-Ling
Published: August 2020

Human milk microorganisms could benefit the healthy development of the immune system in infants. In Asia, the practice of “doing-the-month” indicates a month-long period of postpartum recuperation for new mothers. This is composed of cultural practices, traditional beliefs, behavioral, dietary, and herbal therapies. In this pilot study, we evaluated the effect of “doing-the-month” on the human milk microbiota using a molecular approach. We collected two “doing-the-month” milk groups from randomly recruited mothers who had completed their “doing-the-month” program in either postpartum care center A (milk-PCA, n = 14) or postpartum care center B (milk-PCB, n = 27) for 20 to 30 days. As for the control group, milk samples were selected from postpartum mothers (milk-H, n = 46), who did not conduct the “doing-the-month” program. We found that the “doing-the-month” milk samples were associated with more diverse and unique milk microbiota and that these samples were also linked with more abundant Lactobacillus (milk-PCB) and prevalent Bifidobacteria (milk-PCA and milk-PCB). In addition, the milk samples from “doing-the-month” mothers could be enriched with more Archaea bacterial members, but the “non-doing-the-month” milk samples were enriched with more common skin-, oral-, and environmental-related bacterial members. This study highlights the impact maternal practices may have on the milk microbiome. More research is needed to investigate the effects this may have on infant immune health.
Assessing the Effect of Humic Substances and Fe(III) as Potential Electron Acceptors for Anaerobic Methane Oxidation in a Marine Anoxic System
Authors: van Grinsven Sigrid , Sinninghe Damsté Jaap S. , Villanueva Laura
Published: August 2020

Marine anaerobic methane oxidation (AOM) is generally assumed to be coupled to sulfate reduction, via a consortium of anaerobic methane-oxidizing archaea (ANME) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). ANME-1 are, however, often found as single cells, or only loosely aggregated with SRB, suggesting they perform a form of AOM independent of sulfate reduction. Oxidized metals and humic substances have been suggested as potential electron acceptors for ANME, but up to now, AOM linked to reduction of these compounds has only been shown for the ANME-2 and ANME-3 clades. Here, the effect of the electron acceptors anthraquinone-disulfonate (AQDS), a humic acids analog, and Fe3+ on anaerobic methane oxidation were assessed by incubation experiments with anoxic Black Sea water containing ANME-1b. Incubation experiments with 13C-methane and AQDS showed a stimulating effect of AQDS on methane oxidation. Fe3+ enhanced the ANME-1b abundance but did not substantially increase methane oxidation. Sodium molybdate, which was added as an inhibitor of sulfate reduction, surprisingly enhanced methane oxidation, possibly related to the dominant abundance of Sulfurospirillum in those incubations. The presented data suggest the potential involvement of ANME-1b in AQDS-enhanced anaerobic methane oxidation, possibly via electron shuttling to AQDS or via interaction with other members of the microbial community.
Streptococcus suis: An Underestimated Emerging Pathogen in Hungary?
Authors: Gajdács Márió , Németh Anita , Knausz Márta , Barrak Ibrahim , Stájer Anette , Mestyán Gyula , Melegh Szilvia , Nyul Adrienn , Tóth Ákos , Ágoston Zsuzsanna , Urbán Edit
Published: August 2020

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen, demonstrated as an etiological agent in human infections in increasing frequency, including diseases like purulent meningitis, sepsis, uveitis-endophtalmitis and arthritis. Due to the increased availability and utility of novel diagnostic technologies in clinical microbiology, more studies have been published on the epidemiology of S. suis, both in veterinary and human medicine; however, there are no comprehensive data available regarding human S. suis infections from East-Central European countries. As a part of our study, data were collected from the National Bacteriological Surveillance (NBS) system on patients who had at least one positive microbiological result for S. suis, corresponding to an 18-year study period (2002–2019). n = 74 S. suis strains were isolated from invasive human infections, corresponding to 34 patients. The number of affected patients was 1.89 ± 1.53/year (range: 0–5). Most isolates originated from blood culture (63.5%) and cerebrospinal fluid (18.9%) samples. Additionally, we present detailed documentation of three instructive cases from three regions of the country and with three distinctly different outcomes. Hungary has traditional agriculture, the significant portion of which includes the production and consumption of pork meat, with characteristic preparation and consumption customs and unfavorable epidemiological characteristics (alcohol consumption, prevalence of malignant diseases or diabetes), which have all been described as important predisposing factors for the development of serious infections. Clinicians and microbiologist need to be vigilant even in nonendemic areas, especially if the patients have a history of occupational hazards or having close contact with infected pigs.
Detrital-Zircon Age Spectra of Neoproterozoic-Paleozoic Sedimentary Rocks from the Ereendavaa Terrane in NE Mongolia: Implications for the Early-Stage Evolution of the Ereendavaa Terrane and the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean
Authors: Miao Laicheng , Zhu Mingshuai , Liu Chenghao , Baatar Munkhtsengel , Anaad Chimidtseren , Yang Shunhu , Li Xingbo
Published: August 2020

The Mongol-Okhotsk orogenic belt (MOB) is considered to be the youngest division of the huge Central Asian Orogenic Belt, but its origin and evolution are still enigmatic. To better understand the history of the MOB, we conducted U-Pb geochronological analyses of detrital-zircon grains from Neoproterozoic-Paleozoic sedimentary sequences as well as a volcanic suite in the Ereendavaa terrane, the southern framing unit of the MOB, in NE Mongolia. Our results show that the protoliths of the quartzite assemblage of the Ereendavaa terrane basement (or proto-Ereendavaa terrane) was deposited after ca. 1.15 Ga on a passive continental margin. The detrital-zircon age spectra of the Silurian and Devonian sedimentary sequences of the terrane demonstrate that the source areas were dominated by proximal Cambrian-Ordovician arc rocks, likely resulting from the northward subduction of the Kherlen Ocean lithosphere beneath the Ereendavaa terrane. Based on a combination of our new data with those published, we show that the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean split from an early Paleozoic domain during, or after, the early Silurian by a mantle plume, and developed an Andean-type margin along its northern rim possibly at Middle Devonian times, and a bidirection subduction system in mid-Carboniferous at approximately 325 Ma. This bipolar subduction of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean might have lasted until the Triassic.
Trace Element Geochemistry of Sulfides from the Ashadze-2 Hydrothermal Field (12°58′ N, Mid-Atlantic Ridge): Influence of Host Rocks, Formation Conditions or Seawater?
Authors: Melekestseva Irina , Maslennikov Valery , Tret’yakov Gennady , Maslennikova Svetlana , Danyushevsky Leonid , Kotlyarov Vasily , Large Ross , Beltenev Victor , Khvorov Pavel
Published: August 2020

The trace element (TS) composition of isocubanite, chalcopyrite, pyrite, bornite, and covellite from oxidized Cu-rich massive sulfides of the Ashadze-2 hydrothermal field (12°58′ N, Mid-Atlantic Ridge) is studied using LA-ICP-MS. The understanding of TE behavior, which depends on the formation conditions and the mode of TE occurrence, in sulfides is important, since they are potential sources for byproduct TEs. Isocubanite has the highest Co contents). Chalcopyrite concentrates most Au. Bornite has the highest amounts of Se, Sn, and Te. Crystalline pyrite is a main carrier of Mn. Covellite after isocubanite is a host to the highest Sr, Ag, and Bi contents. Covellite after pyrite accumulates V, Ga and In. The isocubanite+chalcopyrite aggregates in altered gabrro contain the highest amounts of Ni, Zn, As, Mo, Cd, Sb (166 ppm), Tl, and Pb. The trace element geochemistry of sulfides is mainly controlled by local formation conditions. Submarine oxidation results in the formation of covellite and its enrichment in most trace elements relative to primary sulfides. This is a result of incorporation of seawater-derived elements and seawater-affected dissolution of accessory minerals (native gold, galena and clausthalite).
Potential of Natural and Recycled Concrete Aggregate Mixtures for Use in Pavement Structures
Authors: Đokić Olivera , Radević Aleksandar , Zakić Dimitrije , Đokić Božidar
Published: August 2020

This study investigates the feasibility of using recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) as a partial substitution of natural aggregate in pavement engineering. Despite RCA’s good properties, such as polishing value and freeze-thaw resistance, its use is limited by low resistance to fragmentation and high-water absorption. This paper parent the experimental results of mineralogical-petrographic and physical-mechanical properties of RCA, natural stone (dolerite) and their combination (RCA content—15%, 30%, 45%, and 60%). The tested granular mixtures showed good resistance to fragmentation and wear (LA 22–27%, MDE 14–15%), as well as satisfactory Polished Stone Value of 55–57, which means they can be used in different layers of pavement structures. According to the obtained testing results, the application of RCA is possible in different flexible and rigid pavement layers and for various traffic loads.
Modified Vermiculite as Adsorbent of Hexavalent Chromium in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Marcos Celia , Medoro Valeria , Adawy Alaa
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of removing Cr6+ from aqueous solutions using two exfoliated vermiculite: (1) heated abruptly at 1000 °C and (2) irradiated with microwave radiation. The effects investigated were contact time, adsorbate concentration and initial Cr6+ concentration. The adsorption with both exfoliated vermiculites was well described by the DKR isotherm, indicative of a cooperative process and with the pseudo second order kinetic model. The Kd value for the two exfoliated vermiculites was similar, 0.2 ·1010 μg/Kg. The maximum adsorption capacity of Cr6+ with thermo-exfoliated vermiculite, 2.81 mol/g, was much higher than with microwave irradiated vermiculite, 0.001 mol/g; both values were obtained with 0.5 g of vermiculite in contact with distilled water enriched with 1 ppm of Cr6+ for 24 h. Factors such as ion chemistry, the solution pH and ionic strength, influence the values of capacity, adsorption energy and initial adsorption rate values of the exfoliated vermiculite. In addition, these values depended on the exfoliation process, being the adsorption capacity highest with abrupt heating of vermiculite, while the adsorption energy and rate values showed just a slight increase with microwave irradiation. This aspect is important to select the most suitable vermiculite modification treatment to use it as an adsorbent.
Acylated Flavone O-Glucuronides from the Aerial Parts of Nepeta curviflora
Authors: Rabee Maysaa , Andersen Øyvind Moksheim , Fossen Torgils , Enerstvedt Kjersti Hasle , Abu Ali Hijazi , Rayyan Saleh
Published: August 2020

Nepeta curviflora Boiss. (Syrian catnip) is native to the Middle East. This medicinal plant is commonly used against nervous disorders, rheumatic pains, and high blood pressure. Herbal infusions prepared from various Nepeta spp. are extensively consumed as functional food. However, limited information has been known about the phenolic constituents of Syrian catnip. In this study, two acylated flavone 7-O-glucuronides, apigenin 7-O-(2″-O-(2‴-(E-caffeoyl)-β-glucuronopyranosyl)-β-glucuronopyranoside) (1) and luteolin 7-O-(2″-O-(2‴-(E-caffeoyl)-β-glucuronopyranosyl)-β-glucuronopyranoside) (2), along with the known phenolic compounds rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, apigenin, and apigenin 7-O-β-glucopyranoside were isolated from the aerial parts of N. curviflora. The characterizations of these compounds were based on high-resolution mass spectrometry, UV, and extensive use of multidimensional NMR spectroscopy. The new compounds (1 and 2) were identified in the unmodified state and as dimethylesters.
New 12,23-Epoxydammarane Type Saponins Obtained from Panax notoginseng Leaves and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Ruan Jingya , Zhang Ying , Zhao Wei , Sun Fan , Han Lifeng , Yu Haiyang , Wu Lijie , Zhang Yi , Wang Tao
Published: August 2020

Two new 12,23-epoxydammarane-type saponins, notoginsenosides NL-I (1) and NL-J (2), were isolated and identified from Panax notoginseng leaves through the combination of various chromatographies and extensive spectroscopic methods, as well as chemical reactions. Among them, notoginsenoside NL-J (2) had a new skeleton. Furthermore, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage model was used to identify the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity and mechanisms of compounds 1 and 2. Both of them exerted strong inhibition on nitric oxide (NO) productions in a concentration-dependent manner at 1, 10, and 25 μM. Moreover, these two compounds significantly decreased the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB/p65), and nitric-oxide synthase (iNOS) in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells.
Functionalization of Silica Nanoparticles to Improve Crosslinking Degree, Insulation Performance and Space Charge Characteristics of UV-initiated XLPE
Authors: Fu Yu-Wei , Zhang Yong-Qi , Sun Wei-Feng , Wang Xuan
Published: August 2020

In order to inhibit the outward-migrations of photo-initiator molecules in the ultraviolet-initiated crosslinking process and simultaneously improve the crosslinking degree and dielectric properties of crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) materials, we have specifically developed surface-modified-SiO2/XLPE nanocomposites with the silica nanofillers that have been functionalized through chemical surface modifications. With the sulfur-containing silanes and 3-mercaptopropyl trimethoxy silane (MPTMS), the functional monomers of auxiliary crosslinker triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC) have been successfully grafted on the silica surface through thiol–ene click chemistry reactions. The grafted functional groups are verified by molecular characterizations of Fourier transform infrared spectra and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectra. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) indicates that the functionalized silica nanoparticles have been filled into polyethylene matrix with remarkably increased dispersivity compared with the neat silica nanoparticles. Under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, the high efficient crosslinking reactions of polyethylene molecules are facilitated by the auxiliary crosslinkers that have been grafted onto the surfaces of silica nanofillers in polyethylene matrix. With the UV-initiated crosslinking technique, the crosslinking degree, insulation performance, and space charge characteristics of SiO2/XLPE nanocomposites are investigated in comparison with the XLPE material. Due to the combined effects of the high dispersion of nanofillers and the polar-groups of TAIC grafted on the surfaces of SiO2 nanofillers, the functionlized-SiO2/XLPE nanocomposite with an appropriate filling content represents the most preferable crosslinking degree with multiple improvements in the space charge characteristics and direct current dielectric breakdown strength. Simultaneously employing nanodielectric technology and functional-group surface modification, this study promises a modification strategy for developing XLPE nanocomposites with high mechanical and dielectric performances.
Establishment of the Qy Absorption Spectrum of Chlorophyll a Extending to Near-Infrared
Authors: Leiger Kristjan , Linnanto Juha Matti , Freiberg Arvi
Published: August 2020

A weak absorption tail related to the Qy singlet electronic transition of solvated chlorophyll a is discovered using sensitive anti-Stokes fluorescence excitation spectroscopy. The quasi-exponentially decreasing tail was, at ambient temperature, readily observable as far as −2400 cm−1 from the absorption peak and at relative intensity of 10−7. The tail also weakened rapidly upon cooling the sample, implying its basic thermally activated nature. The shape of the spectrum as well as its temperature dependence were qualitatively well reproduced by quantum chemical calculations involving the pigment intramolecular vibrational modes, their overtones, and pairwise combination modes, but no intermolecular/solvent modes. A similar tail was observed earlier in the case of bacteriochlorophyll a, suggesting generality of this phenomenon. Long vibronic red tails are, thus, expected to exist in all pigments of light-harvesting relevance at physiological temperatures.
Influence Carrier Agents, Drying Methods, Storage Time on Physico-Chemical Properties and Bioactive Potential of Encapsulated Sea Buckthorn Juice Powders
Authors: Tkacz Karolina , Wojdyło Aneta , Michalska-Ciechanowska Anna , Turkiewicz Igor Piotr , Lech Krzysztof , Nowicka Paulina
Published: August 2020

Sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) juice with inulin, maltodextrin, and inulin:maltodextrin (1:2 and 2:1) were spray-, freeze- and vacuum-dried at 50, 70 and 90 °C. The study aimed to assess the impact of drying methods and carrier agents on physical properties (moisture content, water activity, true and bulk density, porosity, color parameters, browning index), chemical components (hydroxymethylfurfural and phenolic compounds) and antioxidant capacity of sea buckthorn juice powders. Storage of powders was carried out for six months. Inulin caused stronger water retention in powders than maltodextrin. Vacuum drying provided powders with the highest bulk density. Maltodextrin did not promote browning and HMF formation as strongly as inulin. More phenolic compounds were found in powders with maltodextrin. Storage increased the antioxidant capacity of powders. The results obtained will be useful in optimizing the powders production on an industrial scale, designing attractive food ingredients.
Workflow for the Quantification of Soluble and Insoluble Carbohydrates in Soybean Seed
Authors: Moretti Ademar , Arias Cintia L. , Mozzoni Leandro A. , Chen Pengyin , McNeece Brant T. , Mian M. A. Rouf , McHale Leah K. , Alonso Ana P.
Published: August 2020

Soybean seed composition has a profound impact on its market value and commercial use as an important commodity. Increases in oil and protein content have been historically pursued by breeders and genetic engineers; consequently, rapid methods for their quantification are well established. The interest in complete carbohydrate profiles in mature seeds, on the other hand, has recently increased due to numerous attempts to redirect carbohydrates into oil and protein or to offer specialty seed with a specific sugar profile to meet animal nutritional requirements. In this work, a sequential protocol for quantifying reserve and structural carbohydrates in soybean seed was developed and validated. Through this procedure, the concentrations of soluble sugars, sugar alcohols, starch, hemicellulose, and crystalline cellulose can be determined in successive steps from the same starting material using colorimetric assays, LC–MS/MS, and GC–MS. The entire workflow was evaluated using internal standards to estimate the recovery efficiency. Finally, it was successfully applied to eight soybean genotypes harvested from two locations, and the resulting correlations of carbohydrate and oil or protein are presented. This methodology has the potential not only to guide soybean cultivar optimization processes but also to be expanded to other crops with only slight modifications.
Mesoporous Silica Platforms with Potential Applications in Release and Adsorption of Active Agents
Authors: Chircov Cristina , Spoială Angela , Păun Cătălin , Crăciun Luminița , Ficai Denisa , Ficai Anton , Andronescu Ecaterina , Turculeƫ Ștefan Claudiu
Published: August 2020

In recent years, researchers focused their attention on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) owing to the considerable advancements of the characterization methods, especially electron microscopy methods, which allowed for a clear visualization of the pore structure and the materials encapsulated within the pores, along with the X-ray diffraction (small angles) methods and specific surface area determination by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) technique. Mesoporous silica gained important consideration in biomedical applications thanks to its tunable pore size, high surface area, surface functionalization possibility, chemical stability, and pore nature. Specifically, the nature of the pores allows for the encapsulation and release of anti-cancer drugs into tumor tissues, which makes MSN ideal candidates as drug delivery carriers in cancer treatment. Moreover, the inner and outer surfaces of the MSN provide a platform for further functionalization approaches that could enhance the adsorption of the drug within the silica network and the selective targeting and controlled release to the desired site. Additionally, stimuli-responsive mesoporous silica systems are being used as mediators in cancer therapy, and through the release of the therapeutic agents hosted inside the pores under the action of specific triggering factors, it can selectively deliver them into tumor tissues. Another important application of the mesoporous silica nanomaterials is related to its ability to extract different hazardous species from aqueous media, some of these agents being antibiotics, pesticides, or anti-tumor agents. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the methods of MSN synthesis and related characteristics, the available surface functionalization strategies, and the most important applications of MSN in adsorption as well as release studies. Owing to the increasing antibiotic resistance, the need for developing materials for antibiotic removal from wastewaters is important and mesoporous materials already proved remarkable performances in environmental applications, including removal or even degradation of hazardous agents such as antibiotics and pesticides.
Direct Binding of Cisplatin to p22phox, an Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Membrane Protein, Contributes to Cisplatin Resistance in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) Cells
Authors: Hung Chih-Chang , Li Fu-An , Liang Shih-Shin , Wang Ling-Feng , Lin I-Ling , Chiu Chien-Chih , Lee Chiu-Hsien , Chen Jeff Yi-Fu
Published: August 2020

Prolonged treatment with cisplatin (CDDP) frequently develops chemoresistance. We have previously shown that p22phox, an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane protein, confers CDDP resistance by blocking CDDP nuclear entry in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells; however, the underlying mechanism remains unresolved. Using a fluorescent dye-labeled CDDP, here we show that CDDP can bind to p22phox in both cell-based and cell-free contexts. Subsequent detection of CDDP-peptide interaction by the Tris-Tricine-based electrophoresis revealed that GA-30, a synthetic peptide matching a region of the cytosolic domain of p22phox, could interact with CDDP. These results were further confirmed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis, from which MA-11, an 11-amino acid subdomain of the GA-30 domain, could largely account for the interaction. Amino acid substitutions at Cys50, Met65 and Met73, but not His72, significantly impaired the binding between CDDP and the GA-30 domain, thereby suggesting the potential CDDP-binding residues in p22phox protein. Consistently, the p22phox point mutations at Cys50, Met65 and Met73, but not His72, resensitized OSCC cells to CDDP-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Finally, p22phox might have binding specificity for the platinum drugs, including CDDP, carboplatin and oxaliplatin. Together, we have not only identified p22phox as a novel CDDP-binding protein, but further highlighted the importance of such a drug-protein interaction in drug resistance.
Varietal and Geographical Discrimination of Greek Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oils Based on Squalene, Tocopherol, and Fatty Acid Composition
Authors: Mikrou Theano , Pantelidou Elisavet , Parasyri Niki , Papaioannou Andreas , Kapsokefalou Maria , Gardeli Chrysavgi , Mallouchos Athanasios
Published: August 2020

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is an important component of the Mediterranean diet and a highly priced product. Despite the strict legislation to protect it from fraudulent practices, there is an increasing demand to characterize EVOOs and evaluate their authenticity. For this purpose, 68 monovarietal EVOOs, originating from three regions of Greece (Peloponnese, Crete, and Lesvos) and two local cultivars (Koroneiki and Kolovi), were obtained during the harvesting period of 2018–2019. Fatty acids, squalene, and tocopherols were determined chromatographically according to official methods in order to study the effect of cultivar and geographical origin. Squalene and γ-tocopherol differed significantly amongst the cultivars tested. Koroneiki samples exhibited higher squalene content than Kolovi samples, whereas the opposite was observed for γ-tocopherol. The tocopherol level was highly geographical dependent, with EVOOs from Peloponnese displaying the highest concentration of α-tocopherol, whereas the content of γ-tocopherol was significantly higher in samples from Lesvos. Unsupervised and supervised multivariate analysis resulted in a satisfactory grouping of EVOOs according to cultivar. γ-Tocopherol, squalene, and the majority of fatty acids were the most discriminant variables, with γ-tocopherol, linoleic, linolenic, and gadoleic acid being present at higher levels in samples from the Kolovi cultivar. Koroneiki samples were characterized with higher levels of squalene, palmitic, palmitoleic, and arachidic acid.
Structural and Energetic Insights on Two Dye Compounds: 1-Acetyl-2-Naphthol and 2-Acetyl-1-Naphthol
Authors: Freitas Vera L. S. , Silva Maria D. M. C. Ribeiro da
Published: August 2020

The energy involved in the structural switching of acyl and hydroxyl substituents in the title compounds was evaluated combining experimental and computational studies. Combustion calorimetry and Knudsen effusion techniques were used to determine the enthalpies of formation, in the crystalline state, and of sublimation, respectively. The gas-phase enthalpy of formation of both isomers was derived combining these two experimental data. Concerning the computational study, the G3(MP2)//B3LYP composite method was used to optimize and determine the energy of the isomers in the gaseous state. From a set of hypothetical reactions it has been possible to estimate the gas-phase enthalpy of formation of the title compounds. The good agreement between the experimental and computational gas-phase enthalpies of formation of the 1-acetyl-2-naphthol and 2-acetyl-1-naphthol isomers, provided the confidence for extending the computational study to the 2-acetyl-3-naphthol isomer. The structural rearrangement of the substituents in position 1 and 2 in the naphthalene ring and the energy of the intramolecular hydrogen bond are the factors responsible for the energetic differences exhibited by the isomers. The gas phase tautomeric keto ↔ enol equilibria of the o-acetylnaphthol isomers were analyzed using the Boltzmann’s distribution.