bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crude α-Mangostin Suppresses the Development of Atherosclerotic Lesions in Apoe-Deficient Mice by a Possible M2 Macrophage-Mediated Mechanism
Authors: Shibata Masa-Aki , Harada-Shiba Mariko , Shibata Eiko , Tosa Hideki , Matoba Yoshinobu , Hamaoka Hitomi , Iinuma Munekazu , Kondo Yoichi
Published: April 2019

Lifestyle choices play a significant role in the etiology of atherosclerosis. Male Apoe−/− mice that develop spontaneous atherosclerotic lesions were fed 0%, 0.3%, and 0.4% mangosteen extracts, composed largely of α-mangostin (MG), for 17 weeks. Body weight gains were significantly decreased in both MG-treated groups compared to the control, but the general condition remained good throughout the study. The levels of total cholesterol (decreased very-low-density lipoprotein in lipoprotein profile) and triglycerides decreased significantly in the MG-treated mice in conjunction with decreased hepatic HMG-CoA synthase and Fatty acid transporter. Additionally, increased serum lipoprotein lipase activity and histopathology further showed a significant reduction in atherosclerotic lesions at both levels of MG exposure. Real-time PCR analysis for macrophage indicators showed a significant elevation in the levels of Cd163, an M2 macrophage marker, in the lesions of mice receiving 0.4% MG. However, the levels of Nos2, associated with M1 macrophages, showed no change. In addition, quantitative immunohistochemical analysis of macrophage subtypes showed a tendency for increased M2 populations (CD68+/CD163+) in the lesions of mice given 0.4% MG. In further analysis of the cytokine-polarizing macrophage subtypes, the levels of Interleukin13 (Il13), associated with M2 polarization, were significantly elevated in lesions exposed to 0.4% MG. Thus, MG could suppress the development of atherosclerosis in Apoe−/− mice, possibly through an M2 macrophage-mediated mechanism.
Extracellular Vesicle as a Source of Alzheimer’s Biomarkers: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Lee Seongju , Mankhong Sakulrat , Kang Ju-Hee
Published: April 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory decline and cognitive dysfunction. Although the primary causes of AD are not clear, it is widely accepted that the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and consecutive hyper-phosphorylation of tau, synaptic loss, oxidative stress and neuronal death might play a vital role in AD pathogenesis. Recently, it has been widely suggested that extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are released from virtually all cell types, are a mediator in regulating AD pathogenesis. Clinical evidence for the diagnostic performance of EV-associated biomarkers, particularly exosome biomarkers in the blood, is also emerging. In this review, we briefly introduce the biological function of EVs in the central nervous system and discuss the roles of EVs in AD pathogenesis. In particular, the roles of EVs associated with autophagy and lysosomal degradation systems in AD proteinopathy and in disease propagation are discussed. Next, we summarize candidates for biochemical AD biomarkers in EVs, including proteins and miRNAs. The accumulating data brings hope that the application of EVs will be helpful for early diagnostics and the identification of new therapeutic targets for AD. However, at the same time, there are several challenges in developing valid EV biomarkers. We highlight considerations for the development of AD biomarkers from circulating EVs, which includes the standardization of pre-analytical sources of variability, yield and purity of isolated EVs and quantification of EV biomarkers. The development of valid EV AD biomarkers may be facilitated by collaboration between investigators and the industry.
Gold Nanoparticles for Qualitative Detection of Deltamethrin and Carbofuran Residues in Soil by Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)
Authors: He Yong , Xiao Shupei , Dong Tao , Nie Pengcheng
Published: April 2019

The residues of deltamethrin (DM) and carbofuran (CBF) in soil is becoming an intractable problem causing soil hardening and environmental pollution. This paper reports a very simple method via improved reduction of chloroauric acid by the trisodium citrate method for fabricating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), which were used as a surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) active colloids with the advantages of ultrasensitivity, reproducibility and chemical stability. The results demonstrated that the limits of detection (LODs) of the DM and CBF were found to be as low as 0.01 mg/L. The SERS intensity showed a good linear relationship with DM (R2 = 0.9908) and CBF (R2 = 0.9801) concentration from 0.01 to 10 mg/L. In a practical application, DM and CBF residues in soil were easily detected by SERS with the flexible AuNPs colloids, and the LODs of DM and CBF were found to be as low as 0.056 mg/kg and 0.053 mg/kg, respectively. Moreover, DM in soil could be qualitatively detected by the characteristic peaks at 560 and 1000 cm−1, and CBF in soil could be qualitatively detected by the characteristic peaks at 1000 and 1299 cm−1. The determination coefficient (R2p) for DM and CBF reached 0.9176 and 0.8517 in partial least squares (PLS) model. Overall, it is believed that the prepared AuNPs can provide technical support for the accurate detection of pesticide residues in soil by SERS technique.
Ecosystem Services, Global Diversity, and Rate of Stonefly Species Descriptions (Insecta: Plecoptera)
Authors: DeWalt R. Edward , Ower Geoffrey Donald
Published: April 2019

Stoneflies (Insecta: Plecoptera) provide ecosystem services as indicators of water quality, as food for predators, as mediators of energy flow and nutrient cycling, and through cultural services related to recreation and artistic creativity. The Plecoptera Species File (PSF) aggregates stonefly nomenclature, distribution, and literature to help society and scientists understand the value of services stoneflies provide. Using PSF data, we examined global and regional diversity, compared species description rates, and predicted future species description numbers through the year 2100. Through 2018, extant species totaled 3718 with Temperate Asia having the greatest regional diversity at 1178 species. The Perlidae was the most species-rich of the 16 families at 1120 species. The recent global rate of species description was 43.6 species/yr, with Temperate Asia having the highest regional rate at 13.7 species/yr, followed by China and South America adding approximately 9.0 species/yr. We predicted that 1140 ± 130 new species would be described globally by 2050, and 2130 ± 330 by the year 2100, most of the increase occurring in China and South America. We discuss the possibility of reaching these predicted values.
The More You Take It, the Better It Works: Six-Month Results of a Nalmefene Phase-IV Trial
Authors: Barrio Pablo , Roncero Carlos , Ortega Lluisa , Guardia Josep , Yuguero Lara , Gual Antoni
Published: April 2019

Background: Alcohol use disorders remain a major health problem. Reduced drinking has been increasingly recognized as a valuable alternative to abstinence. Nalmefene has shown in previous, experimental studies to be a useful tool to aid reduced drinking. However, more data from routine practice settings are needed in order to obtain evidence with high external validity. The aim of this study was to conduct a single-arm phase-IV study with alcohol-dependent outpatients starting with nalmefene for the first time. Here, we present the main effectiveness analysis, scheduled at six months. Methods: This was an observational, multisite, single-arm, phase-IV study conducted among adult alcohol-dependent outpatients who received nalmefene for the first time. The study consisted of four visits: Baseline, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. At each visit, drinking variables were obtained from the time-line follow-back regarding the previous month. Satisfaction with medication was also assessed from both patients and professionals with the Medication Satisfaction Questionnaire. A repeated measures mixed model was performed for effective analysis regarding drinking outcomes (reduction in total alcohol consumption and the number of heavy drinking days). Regression analyses were performed in order to find predictors of responses to nalmefene. Results: From a total of 110 patients included, 63 reported data at the six-month visit. On average, patients took nalmefene 69% of days during the month previous to the 6-month assessment. Compared to the one month results, the number of heavy drinking days and total alcohol consumption increased. Still, they were significantly lower than baseline values (outcome evolution over time was from 13.5 to 6.8 to 9.4 days/month, and from 169 to 79 to 116 units/month). A total of 23 patients were considered medication responders. The number of days of taking nalmefene was significantly associated in the regression analysis. Satisfaction was globally high for both professionals and patients and, overall, nalmefene was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported. Conclusion: The data provided by this phase-IV study suggest that nalmefene is an effective, well-tolerated treatment for alcohol-dependence in real world, clinical settings.
Anatomical and Functional Changes of the Retina and the Choroid after Resolved Chronic CSCR
Authors: Toto Lisa , D’Aloisio Rossella , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Di Antonio Luca , Di Nicola Marta , Di Martino Giuseppe , Evangelista Federica , Erroi Emanuele , Doronzo Emanuele , Mariotti Cesare
Published: April 2019

Background: To investigate anatomical/functional changes after oral eplerenone therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CCSC) in successfully treated eyes and fellow eyes and assess timing of foveal subretinal fluid (SRF) resolution. Methods: Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients suffering from CCSC with monolateral foveal SRF successfully treated with oral eplerenone were enrolled in this retrospective study (group 1). The fellow eyes (21 eyes; group 2), healthy or affected by CCSC, without foveal SRF were considered in the analysis. A control healthy group was enrolled as well (healthy controls; n = 21). Main outcome measures during follow-up included changes of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMAR), central macular thickness (CMT; µm), SRF (µm), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT; µm), superficial capillary plexus density (SCPD, %), deep capillary plexus density (DCPD, %), and choriocapillaris density (CCD, %) and percentage of eyes showing foveal SRF resolution at different time points. Results: Functional and anatomical parameters significantly improved during the study in group 1. BCVA increased significantly (p < 0.001), while CMT, SFCT, and SRF decreased significantly (p < 0.001; p < 0.001, and p = 0.037, respectively). SCPD, DCPD, and CCD did not show any statistically significant difference during follow-up. In 71.4% of eyes, resolution of SRF was observed within 60 days and in the remaining 28.6%, at 120 days. In fellow eyes, SFCT decreased significantly (p < 0.001), whilst all other parameters did not modify. Conclusions: Eplerenone treatment in chronic CSCR potentially improves recovery of retinal and choroidal morphology as well as visual acuity gain. A complete resolution of foveal SRF was observed in all eyes during a 4-month follow-up, with most eyes healing at 2 months.
Increasing Sugar Production in Indonesia through Land Suitability Analysis and Sugar Mill Restructuring
Authors: Sulaiman Andi Amran , Sulaeman Yiyi , Mustikasari Novia , Nursyamsi Dedi , Syakir Andi Muhammad
Published: April 2019

Indonesia is the fourth most populated country in the world with an annual population growth rate of 1.3%. This growth is accompanied by an increase in sugar consumption, which is occurring at an annual rate of 4.3%. The huge demand for sugar has created a large gap between sugar production and demand. Indonesia became the world’s largest sugar importer in 2017–2018. Sugarcane farmers have an important role in sugar production. They are facing problems with declining sugarcane productivity and arable land decreasing. We aimed to understand the sugar production issue in Indonesia and to examine options to increase sugar production. To achieve these aims, a framework consisting of four steps was developed: Analysis of the current situation; problems identification; resolution; and delivering programs; and strategies. The main problems in sugar production in Indonesia were identified, including a stagnation in sugarcane harvest area, low sugarcane productivity, lack of good varieties, and inefficient sugar mills. Based on the identified problems, strategies to increase production were created. Two approaches need to be executed simultaneously: An increase in sugarcane planting area, and an increase in productivity and sugar yield. The first approach in increasing sugar production is the exploration of new sugarcane planting areas outside of Java both on existing agricultural land and in new areas. A land suitability analysis for the whole country was conducted based on a semi-detailed soil map. The main priority for development was the existing agricultural area via an integration system or existing crop exchange. The second approach is restructuring sugar factories through the revitalization of existing sugar mills and investment in the construction of new mills. The challenges that need to be addressed include land availability, provision of high-yielding varieties, and improving the efficiency of sugar mills. General strategies and medium-term programs are presented and discussed. These efforts, if well-executed, will boost Indonesia’s sugar production to meet its domestic demand by 2025, achieving competitiveness in the world market by 2045.
Ab Initio Study of Elastic and Mechanical Properties in FeCrMn Alloys
Authors: Razumovskiy Vsevolod I. , Hahn Carola , Lukas Marina , Romaner Lorenz
Published: April 2019

Mechanical properties of FeCrMn-based steels are of major importance for practical applications. In this work, we investigate mechanical properties of disordered paramagnetic fcc FeCr 10 – 16 Mn 12 – 32 alloys using density functional theory. The effects of composition and temperature changes on the magnetic state, elastic properties and stacking fault energies of the alloys are studied. Calculated dependencies of the lattice and elastic constants are used to evaluate the effect of the solid solution strengthening by Mn and Cr using a modified Labusch-Nabarro model and a model for concentrated alloys. The effect of Cr and Mn alloying on the stacking fault energies is calculated and discussed in connection to possible deformation mechanisms.
Study of a Nonlinear Membrane Absorber Applied to 3D Acoustic Cavity for Low Frequency Broadband Noise Control
Authors: Shao Jianwang , Zeng Tao , Wu Xian
Published: April 2019

As a new approach to passive noise control in low frequency domain, the targeted energy transfer (TET) technique has been applied to the 3D fields of acoustics. The nonlinear membrane absorber based on the TET can reduce the low frequency noise inside the 3D acoustic cavity. The TET phenomenon inside the 3D acoustic cavity has firstly investigated by a two degrees-of-freedom (DOF) system, which is comprised by an acoustic mode and a nonlinear membrane without the pre-stress. In order to control the low frequency broadband noise inside 3D acoustic cavity and consider the influence of the pre-stress for the TET, a general model of the system with several acoustic modes of 3D acoustic cavity and one nonlinear membrane is built and studied in this paper. By using the harmonic balance method and the numerical method, the nonlinear normal modes and the forced responses are analyzed. Meanwhile, the influence of the pre-stress of the nonlinear membrane for the TET is investigated. The desired working zones of the nonlinear membrane absorber for the broadband noise are investigated. It can be helpful to design the nonlinear membrane according the dimension of 3D acoustic cavity to control the low frequency broadband noise.
Precipitates in Additively Manufactured Inconel 625 Superalloy
Authors: Dubiel Beata , Sieniawski Jan
Published: April 2019

Laser-based additive manufacturing processes are increasingly used for fabricating components made of nickel-based superalloys. The microstructure development, and in particular the precipitation of secondary phases, is of great importance for the properties of additively manufactured nickel-based superalloys. This paper summarizes the literature data on the microstructure of Inconel 625 superalloy manufactured using laser-based powder-bed fusion and directed energy deposition processes, with particular emphasis on the phase identification of precipitates. The microstructure of Inconel 625 manufactured by laser-based directed energy deposition in as-built condition is investigated by means of light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Phase analysis of precipitates is performed by the combination of selected area electron diffraction and microanalysis of chemical composition. Precipitates present in the interdendritic areas of as-built Inconel 625 are identified as MC and M23C6 carbides as well as the Laves phase.
Hurwitz-Lerch Type Multi-Poly-Cauchy Numbers
Authors: Lacpao Noel , Corcino Roberto , Vega Mary Ann Ritzell
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we define Hurwitz–Lerch multi-poly-Cauchy numbers using the multiple polylogarithm factorial function. Furthermore, we establish properties of these types of numbers and obtain two different forms of the explicit formula using Stirling numbers of the first kind.
On Pre-Commutative Algebras
Authors: Kim Hee Sik , Neggers Joseph , Ahn Sun Shin
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we introduce the notions of generalized commutative laws in algebras, and investigate their relations by using Smarandache disjointness. Moreover, we show that every pre-commutative B C K -algebra is bounded.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Phytopharmacological Potential of Sargassum incisifolium for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Nyambe Mutenta N. , Koekemoer Trevor C. , van de Venter Maryna , Goosen Eleonora D. , Beukes Denzil R.
Published: April 2019

Background: Comprised of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract, which often results in severe damage to the intestinal mucosa. This study investigated metabolites from the South African endemic alga, Sargassum incisifolium, as potential treatments for IBD. Phytochemical evaluation of S. incisifolium yielded prenylated toluhydroquinones and toluquinones, from which semi-synthetic analogs were derived, and a carotenoid metabolite. The bioactivities of S. incisifolium fractions, natural products, and semi-synthetic derivatives were evaluated using various in vitro assays. Methods: Sargahydroquinoic acid isolated from S. incisifolium was converted to several structural derivatives by semi-synthetic modification. Potential modulation of IBD by S. incisifolium crude fractions, natural compounds, and sargahydroquinoic acid analogs was evaluated through in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, anti-oxidant activity, cytotoxicity against HT-29 and Caco-2 colorectal cancer cells, and PPAR-γ activation. Results: Sargahydroquinoic acid acts on various therapeutic targets relevant to IBD treatment. Conclusions: Conversion of sargahydroquinoic acid to sarganaphthoquinoic acid increases peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) activity, compromises anti-oxidant activity, and has no effect on cytotoxicity against the tested cell lines.
Material and Process Design for Lightweight Structures
Authors: Al-Samman Talal
Published: April 2019

The ever-rising demand for increased fuel efficiency and a reduction in the harmful emission of greenhouse gases associated with energy generation and transportation has led, in recent years, to a resurgence of interest in light materials and new lightweight design strategies [...]
The Size Effect on Forming Quality of Ti–6Al–4V Solid Struts Fabricated via Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Liang Huixin , Xie Deqiao , Mao Yuyi , Shi Jianping , Wang Changjiang , Shen Lida , Tian Zongjun
Published: April 2019

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is useful for manufacturing complex structures; however, factors affecting the forming quality have not been clearly researched. This study aimed to clarify the influence of geometric characteristic size on the forming quality of solid struts. Ti–6Al–4V struts with a square section on the side length (0.4 to 1.4 mm) were fabricated with different scan speeds. Micro-computed tomography was used to detect the struts’ profile error and defect distribution. Scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy were used to characterize the samples’ microstructure. Nanoindentation tests were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties. The experimental results illustrated that geometric characteristic size influenced the struts’ physical characteristics by affecting the cooling condition. This size effect became obvious when the geometric characteristic size and the scan speed were both relatively small. The solid struts with smaller geometric characteristic size had more obvious size error. When the geometric characteristic size was smaller than 1 mm, the nanohardness and elastic modulus increased with the increase in scan speed, and decreased with the decline of the geometric characteristic size. Therefore, a relatively high scan speed should be selected for LPBF—the manufacturing of a porous structure, whose struts have small geometric characteristic size.
The Influence of Holding Time on the Microstructure Evolution of Mg–10Zn–6.8Gd–4Y Alloy during Semi-Solid Isothermal Heat Treatment
Authors: Nie Shuang , Gao Bingyang , Wang Xuejian , Cao Zhiqiang , Guo Enyu , Wang Tongmin
Published: April 2019

A semi-solid microstructure of Mg–10Zn–6.8Gd–4Y alloys is acquired via an isothermal heat treatment process, and the effects of the holding time on the microstructure evolution of Mg–10Zn–6.8Gd–4Y alloys are investigated. The results show that the microstructure of the cast alloy is composed of primary α-Mg dendritic grains with a eutectic structure (W-phase and eutectic Mg) distributed at the grain boundaries. The primary α-Mg dendritic grains grow in size with increasing holding time, and they tend to grow into more globular structures in the initial stage; they then become a bit more dendritic, as small branches grow from the grain boundaries after holding the sample at 580 °C for 10 min. Meanwhile, the interdiffusion of magnesium atoms within the eutectic region, and between the primary α-Mg and eutectic structure, leads to the formation of fine and relatively globular eutectic Mg grains in the eutectic structure after holding for 10 min. The eutectic Mg grains begin to grow, coarsen, coalesce, or be swallowed by the surrounding primary grains, causing fluctuations of the general grain size. Over the whole isothermal heat treatment process, two mechanisms—coalescence and Ostwald ripening—dominate the grain coarsening.
Mechanical Properties and Reaction Characteristics of Al-ZrH2-PTFE Composites under Quasi-Static Compression
Authors: Zhang Jun , Fang Xiang , Li Yuchun , Yu Zhongshen , Huang Junyi , Song Jiaxing , Gao Zhenru , Wu Shuangzhang , Wu Jiaxiang , Kui Jiaying
Published: April 2019

To analyze the mechanical properties and reaction characteristics of Al-ZrH2-PTFE (aluminum-zirconium hydride-polytetrafluoroethylene) composites under quasi-static compression, five types of specimens with different ZrH2 contents (0%, 5%, 10%, 20% and 30%) were prepared by molding-vacuum sintering. The true stress-strain curves and reaction rates of the different specimens were measured using quasi-static compression. The specific reaction processes were recorded by a high-speed camera. The corresponding reaction products were characterized by the XRD phase analysis, the calorific value was tested by a Calorimeter, and the reaction mechanism was analyzed. According to the results, the strength of the composites increased first and then decreased with the increase in the content of ZrH2. It reached a maximum of 101.01 MPa at 5%. Violent reaction occurred, and special flames were observed during the reaction of the specimens with 5% ZrH2. With the increase in the content of ZrH2, the chemical reaction was hard to induce due to the reduction in strength and toughness of composites. The reaction mechanism of Al/ZrH2/PTFE reveals that high temperatures at crack tip induced the reaction of Al and PTFE. Subsequently, ZrH2 decomposed to release hydrogen and generate ZrC. Calorimetric experiment shows that the calorific value of Al/ZrH2/PTFE with 20% ZrH2 is higher than that of Al/PTFE. The findings verify the potential of ZrH2 as an energetic additive for the enhancement of strength and release of the energy of the composites.
The Influence of Assembly Force on the Material Loss at the Metallic Head-Neck Junction of Hip Implants Subjected to Cyclic Fretting Wear
Authors: Fallahnezhad Khosro , Oskouei Reza H. , Badnava Hojjat , Taylor Mark
Published: April 2019

The impaction force required to assemble the head and stem components of hip implants is proven to play a major role in the mechanics of the taper junction. However, it is not clear if the assembly force could have an effect on fretting wear, which normally occurs at the junction. In this study, an adaptive finite element model was developed for a CoCr/CoCr head-neck junction with an angular mismatch of 0.01° in order to simulate the fretting wear process and predict the material loss under various assembly forces and over a high number of gait cycles. The junction was assembled with 2, 3, 4, and 5 kN and then subjected to 1,025,000 cycles of normal walking gait loading. The findings showed that material removal due to fretting wear increased when raising the assembly force. High assembly forces induced greater contact pressures over larger contact regions at the interface, which, in turn, resulted in more material loss and wear damage to the surface when compared to lower assembly forces. Although a high assembly force (greater than 4 kN) can further improve the initial strength and stability of the taper junction, it appears that it also increases the degree of fretting wear. Further studies are needed to investigate the assembly force in the other taper designs, angular mismatches, and material combinations.
Role of Intestinal Microbiota in Metabolism of Gastrodin In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Nepal Mahesh Raj , Jeong Ki Sun , Kim Geon Ho , Cha Dong Ho , Kang Mi Jeong , Kim Jin Sung , Kim Ju-Hyun , Jeong Tae Cheon
Published: April 2019

Alteration in the number and composition of intestinal microbiota affects the metabolism of several xenobiotics. Gastrodin, isolated from Gastrodia elata, is prone to be hydrolyzed by intestinal microbiota. In the present study, the role of intestinal microbiota in gastrodin metabolism was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Gastrodin was incubated in an anaerobic condition with intestinal contents prepared from vehicle- and antibiotics-treated rats and the disappearance of gastrodin and formation of 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol (4-HBA) was measured by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS). The results showed that almost all gastrodin incubated with control intestinal contents was metabolized to its aglycone in time- and concentration-dependent manners. In contrast, much less formation of 4-HBA was detected in intestinal contents from antibiotics-treated rats. Subsequently, in vivo pharmacokinetic study revealed that the antibiotic pretreatment of rats significantly affected the metabolism of gastrodin to 4-HBA. When administered orally, gastrodin was rapidly absorbed rapidly into plasma, metabolized to 4-HBA, and disappeared from the body within six hours. Interestingly, the pharmacokinetic parameters of 4-HBA were changed remarkably in antibiotics-treated rats, compared to control rats. The results clearly indicated that the antibiotics treatment of rats suppressed the ability of intestinal microbiota to metabolize gastrodin to 4-HBA and that, thereby, the pharmacodynamic action was significantly modulated.
Chirvinskyite, (Na,Ca)13(Fe,Mn,□)2(Ti,Nb)2(Zr,Ti)3-(Si2O7)4(OH,O,F)12, a New Mineral with a Modular Wallpaper Structure, from the Khibiny Alkaline Massif (Kola Peninsula, Russia)
Authors: Yakovenchuk Victor N. , Pakhomovsky Yakov A. , Panikorovskii Taras L. , Zolotarev Andrey A. , Mikhailova Julia A. , Bocharov Vladimir N. , Krivovichev Sergey V. , Ivanyuk Gregory Yu.
Published: April 2019

Chirvinskyite, (Na,Ca)13(Fe,Mn,□)2(Ti,Nb)2(Zr,Ti)3(Si2O7)4(OH,O,F)12, is a new wöhlerite–related zirconotitano–sorosilicate. It is triclinic, P 1 ¯ , a = 7.0477(5), b = 9.8725(5), c = 12.2204(9) Å, α = 77.995(5), β = 82.057(6), γ = 89.988(5)°, V = 823.35(9) Å3, Z = 1. The mineral was found in albitized alkaline pegmatites in a foyaite of the Mt. Takhtarvumchorr (Khibiny alkaline massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia, N 67°40′, E 33°33′). Chirvinskyite forms sheaf–like and radiated aggregates (up to 6 mm in diameter) of split fibrous crystals hosted by saccharoidal fluorapatite and albite. The mineral is pale cream in color, with a silky luster and a white streak. The cleavage is not recognized. Mohs hardness is 5. Chirvinskyite is biaxial (–), α 1.670(2), β 1.690(2), γ 1.705(2) (589 nm), 2Vcalc = 80.9°. The calculated and measured densities are 3.41 and 3.07(2) g·cm−3, respectively. The empirical formula based on Si = 8 apfu is (Na9.81Ca3.28K0.01)∑13.10(Fe0.72Mn0.69□0.54Mg0.05)∑2.00 (Ti1.81Nb0.19)∑2.00(Zr2.27Ti0.63)∑2.90(Si2O7)4{(OH)5.94O3.09F2.97}∑12.00. Chirvinskyite belongs to a new structure type of minerals and inorganic compounds and is related to the wöhlerite-group minerals. Its modular “wallpaper” structure consists of disilicate groups Si2O7 and three types of “octahedral walls”. The mineral is named in honor of Petr Nikolaevich Chirvinsky (1880–1955), Russian geologist and petrographer, head of the Petrography Department of the Perm’ State University (1943–1953), for his contributions to mineralogy and petrology, including studies of the Khibiny alkaline massif.
A Thermodynamic Analysis on the Roasting of Pyrite
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Qian , Liu Xiaoliang , Xu Bin , Yang Yongbin , Jiang Tao
Published: April 2019

A series of thermodynamic calculations are performed for the roasting of pyrite in changing temperatures and atmospheres. The relationship between ΔrGθ and temperature in the range of T = 300–1200 K shows that, depending on the atmosphere it is in, reactions of pyrolysis, oxidation or reduction can occur. Both the pyrolysis of pyrite in an inert atmosphere and its oxidation by oxygen can form pyrrhotite (mainly Fe0.875S and FeS), but the temperature required for oxidation is much lower than that for pyrolysis. In an oxygen-containing atmosphere, the isothermal predominance areas for the Fe–S–O system indicate that a change in temperature and oxygen partial pressure can lead the pyrite to undergo desulphurization to pyrrhotite (FeS2 → Fe0.875S/FeS) or iron oxides (FeS2 → Fe3O4/Fe2O3), or sulphation to iron sulphates (FeS2 → FeSO4/Fe2(SO4)3). The presence of carbon is beneficial to the desulphurization of pyrite under an oxidizing atmosphere since iron sulphates can be converted to iron oxides at very low levels of PCO/PCO2. Results presented in this paper offer theoretical guidance for the optimization of roasting of pyrite for different purposes.
Polysaccharide-Rich Fractions from Rosa rugosa Thunb.—Composition and Chemopreventive Potential
Authors: Olech Marta , Nowacka-Jechalke Natalia , Masłyk Maciej , Martyna Aleksandra , Pietrzak Wioleta , Kubiński Konrad , Załuski Daniel , Nowak Renata
Published: April 2019

The huge health-beneficial potential of polysaccharides encourages the search for novel sources and applications of these compounds. One poorly explored source of polysaccharides is the rose. The content and biological activity of polysaccharides in rose organs is an almost completely unaddressed topic, therefore, polysaccharide-rich extracts (crude polysaccharides, CPLs) from petals, leaves, hips, and achenes of Rosa rugosa Thunb. were studied for their composition and the influence on various cellular processes involved in the development of cancer and other civilization diseases. The study revealed the presence of water-soluble and -insoluble polysaccharides (including β-glucans) and protein-polysaccharide conjugates in rose organs. Rose hips were found to be the most abundant source of polysaccharides. Different polysaccharide-rich extracts showed the ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes (COX-1, COX-2, hyaluronidase), a radical scavenging effect (against DPPH• and ABTS•+), and antiproliferative activity (in the A549 lung and SW480 colon cancer cell lines) in in vitro assays. Therefore, rose crude polysaccharides are very promising and can potentially be used as natural chemopreventive agents.
Investigation of the Role of Nano-Titanium on Corrosion and Thermal Performance of Structural Concrete with Macro-Encapsulated PCM
Authors: Mohseni Ehsan , Tang Waiching , Wang Shanyong
Published: April 2019

The present study aims to investigate the impact of thermal energy storage aggregate (TESA) and nano-titanium (NT) on properties of structural concrete. TESA was made of scoria encapsulated with phase change materials (PCMs). Coarse aggregates were replaced by TESA at 100% by volume of aggregate and NT was added at 5% by weight of cement. Compressive strength, probability of corrosion, thermal performance, and microstructure properties were studied. The results indicated that the presence of TESA reduced the compressive strength of concrete, although the strength was still high enough to be used as structural concrete. The use of TESA significantly improved the thermal performance of concrete, and slightly improved the resistance of corrosion in concrete. The thermal test results showed that TESA concrete reduces the peak temperature by 2 °C compared to the control. The addition of NT changed the microstructure of concrete, which resulted in higher compressive strength. Additionally, the use of NT further enhanced the thermal performance of TESA concrete by reducing the probability of corrosion remarkably. These results confirmed the crucial role of NT in improving the permeability and the thermal conductivity of mixtures containing PCM. In other words, the charging and discharging of TESA was enhanced with the presence of NT in the mixture.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Trideuterated Sialosides
Authors: Cai Zhi-P. , Conway Louis P. , Huang Ying Y. , Wang Wen J. , Laborda Pedro , Wang Ting , Lu Ai M. , Yao Hong L. , Huang Kun , Flitsch Sabine L. , Liu Li , Voglmeir Josef
Published: April 2019

Sialic acids are a family of acidic monosaccharides often found on the termini of cell surface proteins or lipid glycoconjugates of higher animals. Herein we describe the enzymatic synthesis of the two isotopically labeled sialic acid derivatives d3-X-Gal-α-2,3-Neu5Ac and d3-X-Gal-α-2,3-Neu5Gc. Using deuterium oxide as the reaction solvent, deuterium atoms could be successfully introduced during the enzymatic epimerization and aldol addition reactions when the sialosides were generated. NMR and mass spectrometric analyses confirmed that the resulting sialosides were indeed tri-deuterated. These compounds may be of interest as internal standards in liquid chromatography/mass spectrometric assays for biochemical or clinical studies of sialic acids. This was further exemplified by the use of this tri-deuterated sialosides as internal standards for the quantification of sialic acids in meat and egg samples.
A New Propolis Type from Changbai Mountains in North-east China: Chemical Composition, Botanical Origin and Biological Activity
Authors: Jiang Xiasen , Tian Jing , Zheng Yufei , Zhang Yanzheng , Wu Yuqi , Zhang Cuiping , Zheng Huoqing , Hu Fuliang
Published: April 2019

Propolis is a bee product with a wide range of biological activities and its chemical compounds depend highly on the type of plant accessible to the bees. The Changbai Mountains are a major mountain range in Northeast China and are one of the major bee product-producing areas in China. In this study, we evaluated the total phenolic acids and flavonoid contents as well as the antioxidant activity of propolis sampled from the Changbai Mountains area (CBM). We identified the major compounds and qualified their contents by HPLC-ESI/MS and HPLC-UV, and found that the content of p-coumaric acid and an unknown peak (CBE) in CBM propolis was higher than in propolis from other parts of China. The unknown compound CBE was isolated, purified, and identified as benzyl p-coumarate by MS and NMR. Possible plant sources of CBM propolis are Populus davidiana dode and Populus simonii Carr, which widely distributed in the Changbai Mountains area. CBM propolis is a new propolis type, that could be an excellent raw material for health foods and pharmaceuticals.
Alcyonium Octocorals: Potential Source of Diverse Bioactive Terpenoids
Authors: Abdel-Lateff Ahmed , Alarif Walied Mohamed , Alburae Najla Ali , Algandaby Mardi Mohamed
Published: April 2019

Alcyonium corals are benthic animals, which live in different climatic areas, including temperate, Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters. They were found to produce different chemical substances with molecular diversity and unique architectures. These metabolites embrace several terpenoidal classes with different functionalities. This wide array of structures supports the productivity of genus Alcyonium. Yet, majority of the reported compounds are still biologically unscreened and require substantial efforts to explore their importance. This review is an entryway to push forward the bio-investigation of this genus. It covers the era from the beginning of reporting metabolites from Alcyonium up to March 2019. Ninety-two metabolites are presented; forty-two sesquiterpenes, twenty-five diterpenes and twenty-five steroids have been reported from sixteen species.
Photochemical Degradation of Cyanides and Thiocyanates from an Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Viña Mediavilla Juan Jose , Fernandez Perez Begoña , Fernandez de Cordoba Maria C. , Ayala Espina Julia , Ania Conchi O.
Published: April 2019

We have explored the simultaneous degradation of cyanides and thiocyanate present in wastewaters from a cokemaking factory using photoassisted methods under varied illumination conditions (from simulated solar light to UV light). Overall, the photochemical degradation of cyanides was more efficient than that of thiocyanates, regardless of the illumination conditions, the effect being more pronounced in the absence of a photocatalyst. This is due to their different degradation mechanism that in the case of thiocyanates is dominated by fast recombination reactions and/or charge transfer reactions to electron scavengers. In all cases, cyanate, ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites were formed at different amounts depending on the illumination conditions. The conversion yield under simulated solar light was almost complete for cyanides and quite high for thiocyanates after 6 h of illumination. Regarding toxicity, photochemical oxidation at 254 nm and under simulated solar light decreased significantly the toxicity of the pristine wastewater, showing a correlation with the intensity of the irradiation source. This indicate that simulated light can be effectively used to reduce the toxicity of industrial effluents, opening an interesting perspective for optimizing cyanide detoxification systems based on natural light.
Regulation of the Nrf2 Pathway by Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β in MPP+-Induced Cell Damage
Authors: Armagan Güliz , Sevgili Elvin , Gürkan Fulya Tuzcu , Köse Fadime Aydın , Bilgiç Tuğçe , Dagcı Taner , Saso Luciano
Published: April 2019

Recently, nuclear translocation and stability of nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) have gained increasing attention in the prevention of oxidative stress. The present study was aimed to evaluate the regulatory role of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibition by tideglusib through the Nrf2 pathway in a cellular damage model. Gene silencing (siRNA-mediated) was performed to examine the responses of Nrf2-target genes (i.e., heme oxygenase-1, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase1) to siRNA depletion of Nrf2 in MPP+-induced dopaminergic cell death. Nrf2 and its downstream regulated genes/proteins were analyzed using Real-time PCR and Western Blotting techniques, respectively. Moreover, free radical production, the changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, total glutathione, and glutathione-S-transferase were examined. The possible contribution of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) to tideglusib-mediated neuroprotection was evaluated. The number of viable cells and mitochondrial membrane potential were increased following GSK-3β enzyme inhibition against MPP+. HO-1, NQO1 mRNA/protein expressions and Nrf2 nuclear translocation significantly triggered by tideglusib. Moreover, the neuroprotection by tideglusib was not observed in the presence of siRNA Nrf2. Our study supports the idea that GSK-3β enzyme inhibition may modulate the Nrf2/ARE pathway in cellular damage and the inhibitory role of tideglusib on GSK-3β along with PPARγ activation may be responsible for neuroprotection.
1H-NMR Profiling and Carbon Isotope Discrimination as Tools for the Comparative Assessment of Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Cultivars with Various Geographical and Genetic Origins—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Popescu Raluca , Ionete Roxana Elena , Botoran Oana Romina , Costinel Diana , Bucura Felicia , Geana Elisabeta Irina , ’Alabedallat Yazan Falah Jadee , Botu Mihai
Published: April 2019

The aim of the study was to investigate the differences between walnut genotypes of various geographical and genetic origins grown under the same or different environmental conditions. The biological material analyzed consisted in walnut kernels of 34 cultivars, nine advanced selections, and six hybrids harvested in 2015 and 2016, summing up to a total of 64 samples. The walnuts, walnut oil, and residue were characterized in respect to their chemical (proximate composition—fat, protein, nutritional value, fatty acids profile by 1H-NMR) and carbon-13 isotopic composition. The data was used to statistically discriminate the cultivars according to composition, geographical area of origin, and year of harvest, comparing the Romanian cultivars, selections, and hybrids with the internationally available ones.
Isonitrile-Derivatized Indole as an Infrared Probe for Hydrogen-Bonding Environments
Authors: You Min , Zhou Liang , Huang Xinyue , Wang Yang , Zhang Wenkai
Published: April 2019

The isonitrile (NC) group has been shown to be a promising infrared probe for studying the structure and dynamics of biomolecules. However, there have been no systematic studies performed on the NC group as an infrared probe, when it is bonded to an indole ring. Here, we systematically study the NC stretching mode of two model compounds, 5-isocyano-1H-indole (5ICI) and 5-isocyano-1-methyl-1H-indole (NM5ICI), using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The NC stretching frequency is shown to be strongly dependent on the polarizability of protic solvents and the density of hydrogen-bond donor groups in the solvent when NC is bonded to an indole ring. Infrared pump–probe studies of 5ICI in DMSO and in EtOH further support that the NC stretching mode could be used as a site-specific infrared probe for local environments when NC is bonded to an indole ring.
Sb2S3@PPy Coaxial Nanorods: A Versatile and Robust Host Material for Reversible Storage of Alkali Metal Ions
Authors: Shi Yang , Li Feng , Zhang Yi , He Liang , Ai Qing , Luo Wen
Published: April 2019

Chalcogenides have attracted great attention as functional materials in optics, electronics, and energy-related applications due to their typical semiconductor properties. Among those chalcogenides, Sb2S3 holds great promise in energy storage field, especially as an anode material for alkali metal (Li, Na, and K) batteries. In this work, a one-dimensional coaxial Sb2S3@PPy is investigated as a versatile and robust anode in three kinds of alkali metal batteries for the first time, and the energy storage mechanism of these batteries is systematically discussed. As an anode material for sodium ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium ion batteries (KIBs), Sb2S3@PPy exhibits high reversible capacity and impressive cycle lifespan. Sb2S3@PPy anode demonstrates an adsorption behavior that has a significant influence on its sodium storage behavior, providing a universal model for studying the application of chalcogenide compounds.
Measurement of Radial Elasticity and Original Height of DNA Duplex Using Tapping-Mode Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Li Longhai , Zhang Xu , Wang Hongfei , Lang Qian , Chen Haitao , Liu Lian Qing
Published: April 2019

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) can characterize nanomaterial elasticity. However, some one-dimensional nanomaterials, such as DNA, are too small to locate with an AFM tip because of thermal drift and the nonlinearity of piezoelectric actuators. In this study, we propose a novel approach to address the shortcomings of AFM and obtain the radial Young’s modulus of a DNA duplex. The elastic properties are evaluated by combining physical calculations and measured experimental results. The initial elasticity of the DNA is first assumed; based on tapping-mode scanning images and tip–sample interaction force simulations, the calculated elastic modulus is extracted. By minimizing the error between the assumed and experimental values, the extracted elasticity is assigned as the actual modulus for the material. Furthermore, tapping-mode image scanning avoids the necessity of locating the probe exactly on the target sample. In addition to elasticity measurements, the deformation caused by the tapping force from the AFM tip is compensated and the original height of the DNA is calculated. The results show that the radial compressive Young’s modulus of DNA is 125–150 MPa under a tapping force of 0.5–1.3 nN; its original height is 1.9 nm. This approach can be applied to the measurement of other nanomaterials.
Opto-thermally Excited Fabry-Perot Resonance Frequency Behaviors of Clamped Circular Graphene Membrane
Authors: Shi Fu-Tao , Fan Shang-Chun , Li Cheng , Li Zi-Ang
Published: April 2019

An opto-thermally excited optical fiber Fabry-Perot (F-P) resonant probe with suspended clamped circular graphene diaphragm is presented in this paper. Then, the dependence of resonance frequency behaviors of graphene diaphragm upon opto-mechanical factors including membrane properties, laser excitation parameters and film boundary conditions are investigated via COMSOL Multiphysics simulation. The results show that the radius and thickness of membrane will linearly affect the optical fiber light-induced temperature distribution, thus resulting in rapidly decreasing resonance frequency changes with the radius-to-thickness ratio. Moreover, the prestress can be regulated in the range of 108 Pa to 109 Pa by altering the environmental temperature with a scale factor of 14.2 MPa/K. It is important to note that the availability of F-P resonant probe with a defective clamped circular graphene membrane can be improved notably by fabricating the defected circular membrane to a double-end clamped beam, which gives a broader perspective to characterize the resonance performance of opto-thermally excited F-P resonators.