bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantial Epigenetic Variation Causing Flower Color Chimerism in the Ornamental Tree Prunus mume Revealed by Single Base Resolution Methylome Detection and Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Ma Kai-Feng , Zhang Qi-Xiang , Cheng Tang-Ren , Yan Xiao-Lan , Pan Hui-Tang , Wang Jia
Published: August 2018

Epigenetic changes caused by methylcytosine modification participate in gene regulation and transposable element (TE) repression, resulting in phenotypic variation. Although the effects of DNA methylation and TE repression on flower, fruit, seed coat, and leaf pigmentation have been investigated, little is known about the relationship between methylation and flower color chimerism. In this study, we used a comparative methylomic–transcriptomic approach to explore the molecular mechanism responsible for chimeric flowers in Prunus mume “Danban Tiaozhi”. High-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry revealed that the variation in white (WT) and red (RT) petal tissues in this species is directly due to the accumulation of anthocyanins, i.e., cyanidin 3,5-O-diglucoside, cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, and peonidin 3-O-glucoside. We next mapped the first-ever generated methylomes of P. mume, and found that 11.29–14.83% of the genomic cytosine sites were methylated. We also determined that gene expression was negatively correlated with methylcytosine level in general, and uncovered significant epigenetic variation between WT and RT. Furthermore, we detected differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and DMR-related genes between WT and RT, and concluded that many of these genes, including differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and transcription factor genes, are critical participants in the anthocyanin regulatory pathway. Importantly, some of the associated DEGs harbored TE insertions that were also modified by methylcytosine. The above evidence suggest that flower color chimerism in P. mume is induced by the DNA methylation of critical genes and TEs.
Synthesis and Spectrum of Biological Activities of Novel N-arylcinnamamides
Authors: Pospisilova Sarka , Kos Jiri , Michnova Hana , Kapustikova Iva , Strharsky Tomas , Oravec Michal , Moricz Agnes M. , Bakonyi Jozsef , Kauerova Tereza , Kollar Peter , Cizek Alois , Jampilek Josef
Published: August 2018

A series of sixteen ring-substituted N-arylcinnamamides was prepared and characterized. Primary in vitro screening of all the synthesized compounds was performed against Staphylococcus aureus, three methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains, Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra, Fusarium avenaceum, and Bipolaris sorokiniana. Several of the tested compounds showed antistaphylococcal, antitubercular, and antifungal activities comparable with or higher than those of ampicillin, isoniazid, and benomyl. (2E)-N-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-3-phenylprop-2-enamide and (2E)-3-phenyl-N-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]prop-2-enamide showed the highest activities (MICs = 22.27 and 27.47 µM, respectively) against all four staphylococcal strains and against M. tuberculosis. These compounds showed an activity against biofilm formation of S. aureus ATCC 29213 in concentrations close to MICs and an ability to increase the activity of clinically used antibiotics with different mechanisms of action (vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline). In time-kill studies, a decrease of CFU/mL of >99% after 8 h from the beginning of incubation was observed. (2E)-N-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)- and (2E)-N-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide had a MIC = 27.38 µM against M. tuberculosis, while a significant decrease (22.65%) of mycobacterial cell metabolism determined by the MTT assay was observed for the 3,5-dichlorophenyl derivative. (2E)-N-(3-Fluorophenyl)- and (2E)-N-(3-methylphenyl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide exhibited MICs = 16.58 and 33.71 µM, respectively, against B. sorokiniana. The screening of the cytotoxicity of the most effective antimicrobial compounds was performed using THP-1 cells, and these chosen compounds did not shown any significant lethal effect. The compounds were also evaluated for their activity related to the inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. (2E)-N-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-3-phenylprop-2-enamide (IC50 = 5.1 µM) was the most active PET inhibitor. Compounds with fungicide potency did not show any in vivo toxicity against Nicotiana tabacum var. Samsun. The structure–activity relationships are discussed.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): An Overview
Authors: Barratt Shaney , Creamer Andrew , Hayton Conal , Chaudhuri Nazia
Published: August 2018

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial lung disease characterised by chronic, progressive scarring of the lungs and the pathological hallmark of usual interstitial pneumonia. Current paradigms suggest alveolar epithelial cell damage is a key initiating factor. Globally, incidence of the disease is rising, with associated high morbidity, mortality, and economic healthcare burden. Diagnosis relies on a multidisciplinary team approach with exclusion of other causes of interstitial lung disease. Over recent years, two novel antifibrotic therapies, pirfenidone and nintedanib, have been developed, providing treatment options for many patients with IPF, with several other agents in early clinical trials. Current efforts are directed at identifying key biomarkers that may direct more customized patient-centred healthcare to improve outcomes for these patients in the future.
Monitoring Fungal Burden and Viability of Sporothrix spp. in Skin Lesions of Cats for Predicting Antifungal Treatment Response
Authors: De Miranda Luisa Helena Monteiro , Silva Jéssica Nunes , Gremião Isabella Dib Ferreira , Menezes Rodrigo Caldas , Almeida-Paes Rodrigo , Dos Reis Érica Guerino , De Oliveira Raquel de Vasconcellos Carvalhaes , De Araujo Danuza Salles do Amaral , Ferreiro Laerte , Pereira Sandro Antonio
Published: August 2018

Skin lesions in feline sporotrichosis usually present a high fungal burden, making cats an important source of infection. This study evaluated the fungal burden and isolation in skin lesions of feline sporotrichosis during treatment with itraconazole (ITZ), combined with or without potassium iodide (KI). Treatment-naïve cats with culture-confirmed sporotrichosis and presenting skin ulcers were treated for up to 40 weeks with oral ITZ alone (n = 74) or combined with KI (n = 56). These cats were submitted to monthly sampling of the same lesion for mycological culture and cytopathology until healing of lesion or up to twelve weeks. The fungal burden was expressed as the mean yeast cell count in three microscopic fields from imprint smears. The fungal burden before treatment was significantly higher in cats in which the lesion persisted and in cases of treatment failure when using ITZ alone. After twelve weeks, the median fungal burden decreased to zero in both treatment protocols, suggesting a potential decrease in the risk of transmission of Sporothrix spp. from cats. These findings encourage the early treatment of feline sporotrichosis as a control measure. Moreover, the fungal burden in feline sporotrichosis lesions can be a prognostic indicator and a parameter for choosing appropriate therapeutic regimen.
Effect of Annealing Temperature on ECD Grown Hexagonal-Plane Zinc Oxide
Authors: Sucharitakul Sukrit , Panyathip Rangsan , Choopun Supab
Published: August 2018

Zinc oxide (ZnO) offers a great potential in several applications from sensors to Photovoltaic cells thanks to the material’s dependency, to its optical and electrical properties and crystalline structure architypes. Typically, ZnO powder tends to be grown in the form of a wurtzite structure allowing versatility in the phase of material growths; albeit, whereas in this work we introduce an alternative in scalable yet relatively simple 2D hexagonal planed ZnO nanoflakes via the electrochemical deposition of commercially purchased Zn(NO3)2 and KCl salts in an electrochemical process. The resulting grown materials were analyzed and characterized via a series of techniques prior to thermal annealing to increase the grain size and improve the crystal quality. Through observation via scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, we have analyzed the statistics of the grown flakes’ hexagonal plane’s size showing a non-monotonal strong dependency of the average flake’s hexagonal flakes’ on the annealing temperature, whereas at 300 °C annealing temperature, average flake size was found to be in the order of 300 μm2. The flakes were further analyzed via transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to confirm its hexagonal planes and spectroscopy techniques, such as Raman Spectroscopy and photo luminescence were applied to analyze and confirm the ZnO crystal signatures. The grown materials also underwent further characterization to gain insights on the material, electrical, and optical properties and, hence, verify the quality of the material for Photovoltaic cells’ electron collection layer application. The role of KCl in aiding the growth of the less preferable (0001) ZnO is also investigated via various prospects discussed in our work. Our method offers a relatively simple and mass-producible method for synthesizing a high quality 2D form of ZnO that is, otherwise, technically difficult to grow or control.
Recent Developments in Spectroscopic Techniques for the Detection of Explosives
Authors: Zhang Wei , Tang Yue , Shi Anran , Bao Lirong , Shen Yun , Shen Ruiqi , Ye Yinghua
Published: August 2018

Trace detection of explosives has been an ongoing challenge for decades and has become one of several critical problems in defense science; public safety; and global counter-terrorism. As a result, there is a growing interest in employing a wide variety of approaches to detect trace explosive residues. Spectroscopy-based techniques play an irreplaceable role for the detection of energetic substances due to the advantages of rapid, automatic, and non-contact. The present work provides a comprehensive review of the advances made over the past few years in the fields of the applications of terahertz (THz) spectroscopy; laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), Raman spectroscopy; and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) for trace explosives detection. Furthermore, the advantages and limitations of various spectroscopy-based detection techniques are summarized. Finally, the future development for the detection of explosives is discussed.
Composites of Laponite and Cu–Mn Hopcalite-Related Mixed Oxides Prepared from Inverse Microemulsions as Catalysts for Total Oxidation of Toluene
Authors: Napruszewska Bogna D. , Michalik Alicja , Walczyk Anna , Duraczyńska Dorota , Dula Roman , Rojek Wojciech , Lityńska-Dobrzyńska Lidia , Bahranowski Krzysztof , Serwicka Ewa M.
Published: August 2018

Composites of Laponite and Cu–Mn hopcalite-related mixed oxides, prepared from hydrotalcite-like (Htlc) precursors obtained in inverse microemulsions, were synthesized and characterized with XRF, XRD, SEM, TEM, H2 temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), and N2 adsorption/desorption at −196 °C. The Htlc precursors were precipitated either with NaOH or tetrabutylammonium hydroxide (TBAOH). Al was used as an element facilitating Htlc structure formation, and Ce and/or Zr were added as promoters. The composites calcined at 600 °C are mesoporous structures with similar textural characteristics. The copper–manganite spinel phases formed from the TBAOH-precipitated precursors are less crystalline and more susceptible to reduction than the counterparts obtained from the precursors synthesized with NaOH. The Cu–Mn-based composites are active in the combustion of toluene, and their performance improves further upon the addition of promoters in the following order: Ce < Zr < Zr + Ce. The composites whose active phases are prepared with TBAOH are more active than their counterparts obtained with the use of the precursors precipitated with NaOH, due to the better reducibility of the less crystalline mixed oxide active phase.
Increase in Strength and Fretting Resistance of Alloy 718 Using the Surface Modification Process
Authors: Amanov Auezhan , Umarov Rakhmatjon , Amanov Tileubay
Published: August 2018

This work comparatively investigated the strength (hardness, yield strength, dynamic elastic modulus, and surface residual stress), fretting failure, and corrosion resistance of the as-received and treated Ni-based superalloy Alloy 718. The goal of the current research is to improve the hardness, fretting wear, and corrosion resistances of Alloy 718 through the ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) process with the aim of extending the lifespan of aircraft and nuclear components made of Alloy 718. The experimental results revealed that the surface hardness increased by about 32%, the fretting wear resistance increased by about 14%, and the corrosion resistance increased by about 18% after UNSM process. In addition, the UNSM process induced a tremendous high compressive surface residual stress of about −1324 MPa that led to an increase in yield strength and dynamic Young’s modulus by about 14 and 9%, respectively. Grain size refinement up to ~50 nm after the UNSM process is found to be responsible for the increase in surface hardness as well. The depth of the effective layer generated by the UNSM process was about 20 µm. It was concluded that the UNSM process played a vital role in increasing the strength and enhancing the corrosion and fretting resistances of Alloy 718.
Oxidation Behavior of Tyranno ZMI-SiC Fiber/SiC-SiBC Matrix Composite from 800 to 1200 °C
Authors: Zhao Donglin , Fan Xiaomeng , Yin Xiaowei , Cao Xiaoyu , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2018

In this work, the self-healing Si-B-C matrix-modified ZMI-SiC fiber/SiC (SiC/SiC-SiBC) composite was prepared by a combined process of chemical vapor infiltration, slurry infiltration, and liquid silicon infiltration. The weight changes of the as-fabricate composite after oxidation at 800, 1000, and 1200 °C for 100 h were −0.41%, −0.06%, +0.05%, respectively. The corresponding strength retention ratios were 75%, 99%, 100%, respectively. With the increase of oxidation temperature, coating cracks would be closed. A dense oxidation film was formed with the oxidation of the SiBC matrix, preventing the oxidation of interphase and fiber and leading to excellent oxidation resistance at 1000 and 1200 °C.
Developing and Testing of Strain-Hardening Cement-Based Composites (SHCC) in the Context of 3D-Printing
Authors: Ogura Hiroki , Nerella Venkatesh Naidu , Mechtcherine Viktor
Published: August 2018

Incorporating reinforcement into the practice of digital concrete construction, often called 3D-concrete-printing, is a prerequisite for wide-ranging, structural applications of this new technology. Strain-Hardening Cement-based Composites (SHCC) offer one possible solution to this challenge. In this work, printable SHCC were developed and tested. The composites could be extruded through a nozzle of a 3D-printer so that continuous filaments could be deposited, one upon the other, to build lab-scaled wall specimens without noticeable deformation of the bottom layers. The specimens extracted from the printed walls exhibited multiple fine cracks and pronounced strain-hardening characteristics under uniaxial tensile loading, even for fiber volume fractions as low as 1.0%. In fact, the strain-hardening characteristics of printed specimens were superior to those of mold-cast SHCC specimens.
On the Evaluation of Errors in the Virtual Design of Mechanical Systems
Authors: Villecco Francesco
Published: August 2018

In this article, the information value is used in numeric analysis as both a method for data approximation and a measure of data equality among a set of values. To this end, a surface segmentation, based on a study for constructing a hierarchy for vectors clustering using certain similarity criteria, is presented. The technique is based on the analysis of vectors representing regions associated with given types of critical points. An approach based on the Max Entropy in Metric Space (MEMS) is introduced in the paper, in order to extract a cluster of local features and to obtain an analysis of mechanical systems in the 2D and/or 3D spaces. The approach proposed in the paper can be effectively used in virtual prototyping and optimal designing of mechanical systems.
New Cembranoids and a Biscembranoid Peroxide from the Soft Coral Sarcophyton cherbonnieri
Authors: Peng Chia-Chi , Huang Chiung-Yao , Ahmed Atallah , Hwang Tsong-Long , Dai Chang-Feng , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: August 2018

Six new cembranoids, cherbonolides A−E (1–5) and bischerbolide peroxide (6), along with one known cembranoid, isosarcophine (7), were isolated from the Formosan soft coral Sarcophyton cherbonnieri. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods. Compound 6 was discovered to be the first example of a molecular skeleton formed from two cembranoids connected by a peroxide group. Compounds 1–7 were shown to have the ability of inhibiting the production of superoxide anions and elastase release in N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine/cytochalasin B (fMLF/CB)-induced human neutrophils.
Validation and Automation of a High-Throughput Multitargeted Method for Semiquantification of Endogenous Metabolites from Different Biological Matrices Using Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Nandania Jatin , Peddinti Gopal , Pessia Alberto , Kokkonen Meri , Velagapudi Vidya
Published: August 2018

The use of metabolomics profiling to understand the metabolism under different physiological states has increased in recent years, which created the need for robust analytical platforms. Here, we present a validated method for targeted and semiquantitative analysis of 102 polar metabolites that cover major metabolic pathways from 24 classes in a single 17.5-min assay. The method has been optimized for a wide range of biological matrices from various organisms, and involves automated sample preparation and data processing using an inhouse developed R-package. To ensure reliability, the method was validated for accuracy, precision, selectivity, specificity, linearity, recovery, and stability according to European Medicines Agency guidelines. We demonstrated an excellent repeatability of retention times (CV < 4%), calibration curves (R2 ≥ 0.980) in their respective wide dynamic concentration ranges (CV < 3%), and concentrations (CV < 25%) of quality control samples interspersed within 25 batches analyzed over a period of one year. The robustness was demonstrated through a high correlation between metabolite concentrations measured using our method and the NIST reference values (R2 = 0.967), including cross-platform comparability against the BIOCRATES AbsoluteIDQp180 kit (R2 = 0.975) and NMR analyses (R2 = 0.884). We have shown that our method can be successfully applied in many biomedical research fields and clinical trials, including epidemiological studies for biomarker discovery. In summary, a thorough validation demonstrated that our method is reproducible, robust, reliable, and suitable for metabolomics studies.
The Conformal Design of an Island-Bridge Structure on a Non-Developable Surface for Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Xiao Lin , Zhu Chen , Xiong Wennan , Huang YongAn , Yin Zhouping
Published: August 2018

Conformal design of the island-bridge structure is the key to construct high-performance inorganic stretchable electronics that can be conformally transferred to non-developable surfaces. Former studies in conformal problems of epidermal electronics are mainly focused on soft surfaces that can adapt to the deformation of the electronics, which are not suitable for applications in hard, non-developable surfaces because of their loose surface constraints. In this paper, the conformal design problem for the island-bridge structure on a hard, non-developable surface was studied, including the critical size for island and stiffness and the demand for stretchability for the bridge. Firstly, the conformal model for an island on a part of torus surface was established to determine the relationship between the maximum size of the island and the curvatures of the surface. By combining the principle of energy minimization and the limit of material failure, a critical non-dimensional width for conformability was given for the island as a function of its thickness and interfacial adhesion energy, and the ratio of two principal curvatures of the surface. Then, the dependency of the tensile stiffness of the bridge on its geometric parameters was studied by finite element analysis (FEA) to guide the deterministic assembly of the islands on the surface. Finally, the location-dependent demands for the stretchability of the bridges were given by geometric mapping. This work will provide a design rule for stretchable electronics that fully conforms to the non-developable surface.
Directed Evolution of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Increased Selenium Accumulation
Authors: Yoshinaga Masafumi , How Stephanie , Blanco Damien , Murdoch Ian S. , Grudny Matteo , Powers Samantha L. , Molina Nelson , Rosen Barry P. , Welch Aaron Z.
Published: August 2018

Selenium-enriched yeast (selenium yeast) are one of the most popular sources of selenium supplementation used in the agriculture and human nutritional supplements industries. To enhance the production efficiency of selenium yeast, we sought to develop a method to identify, and ultimately select for, strains of yeast with enhanced selenium accumulation capabilities. Selenite resistance of four genetically diverse strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was assayed in various conditions, including varying carbon sources, nitrogen sources, and phosphate amounts, and they were correlated with selenium accumulation in a commercially relevant selenium-containing growth medium. Glycerol- and selenite-containing media was used to select for six yeast isolates with enhanced selenite resistance. One isolate was found to accumulate 10-fold greater selenium (0.13 to 1.4 mg Se g−1 yeast) than its parental strain. Glycerol- and selenium-containing medium can be used to select for strains of yeast with enhanced selenium accumulation capability. The methods identified can lead to isolation of industrial yeast strains with enhanced selenium accumulation capabilities that can result in greater cost efficiency of selenium yeast production. Additionally, the selection method does not involve the construction of transgenic yeast, and thus produces yeasts suitable for use in human food and nutrient supplements.
Synthesis of New 1,3,5-Triazine-Based 2-Pyrazolines as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Moreno Leydi M. , Quiroga Jairo , Abonia Rodrigo , Ramírez-Prada Jonathan , Insuasty Braulio
Published: August 2018

A new series of 1,3,5-triazine-containing 2-pyrazoline derivatives (8–11)a–g was synthesized by cyclocondensation reactions of [(4,6-bis((2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amine]chalcones 7a–g with hydrazine hydrate and derivatives. Chalcones 7a–g were obtained by Claisen-Schmidt condensation between aromatic aldehydes and triazinic derivative 5, which was synthesized in high yield by a microwave-assisted reaction. Seventeen of the synthesized compounds were selected and tested by the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) for their anticancer activity against 58 different human tumor cell lines. Compounds 7g and 10d,e,g showed important GI50 values ranging from 0.569 to 16.6 µM and LC50 values ranging from 5.15 to >100 µM.
Next-Generation Drugs and Probes for Chromatin Biology: From Targeted Protein Degradation to Phase Separation
Authors: Cermakova Katerina , Hodges H. Courtney
Published: August 2018

Chromatin regulation is a critical aspect of nuclear function. Recent advances have provided detailed information about dynamic three-dimensional organization of chromatin and its regulatory factors. Mechanisms crucial for normal nuclear function and epigenetic control include compartmentalization of biochemical reactions by liquid-phase separated condensates and signal-dependent regulation of protein stability. Synthetic control of these phenomena by small molecules provides deep insight into essential activities such as histone modification, BAF (SWI/SNF) and PBAF remodeling, Polycomb repression, enhancer looping by cohesin and CTCF, as well as many other processes that contribute to transcription. As a result, a complete understanding of the spatiotemporal mechanisms that underlie chromatin regulation increasingly requires the use of fast-acting drugs and chemical probes. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of next-generation chemical biology tools to interrogate the chromatin regulatory landscape, including selective PROTAC E3 ubiquitin ligase degraders, degrons, fluorescent ligands, dimerizers, inhibitors, and other drugs. These small molecules provide important insights into the mechanisms that govern gene regulation, DNA repair, development, and diseases like cancer.
Novel Sophoridine Derivatives Bearing Phosphoramide Mustard Moiety Exhibit Potent Antitumor Activities In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Li Dongdong , Dai Linlin , Zhao Xiumei , Zhi Shuang , Shen Hongsheng , Yang Zibo
Published: August 2018

Novel mustard functionalized sophoridine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxicity against of a panel of various cancer cell lines. They were shown to be more sensitive to S180 and H22 tumor cells with IC50 values ranging from 1.01–3.65 μM, and distinctly were more cytotoxic to cancer cells than normal cell L929. In addition, compounds 7a, 7c, and 7e displayed moderate tumor suppression without apparent organ toxicity in vivo against mice bearing H22 liver tumors. Furthermore, they arrested tumor cells in the G1 phase and induced cellular apoptosis. Their potential binding modes with DNA-Top I complex have also been investigated.
A Three Component Synthetic Vaccine Containing a β-Mannan T-Cell Peptide Epitope and a β-Glucan Dendritic Cell Ligand
Authors: Bundle David R. , Paszkiewicz Eugenia , Elsaidi Hassan R. H. , Mandal Satadru Sekhar , Sarkar Susmita
Published: August 2018

Glycoconjugates prepared from the capsular polysaccharide of several pathogenic bacteria and carrier proteins, such as CRM 197 or tetanus toxoid, have been one of the most successful public health measures to be implemented in the last quarter century. A crucial element in the success of conjugate vaccines has been the recruitment of T-cell help and systematic induction of a secondary immune response. The seminal discovery, that degraded polysaccharide fragments with attached peptide are presented to the T-cell receptor of carbohydrate specific T-cells by MHC-II molecules that bind to the peptide component of degraded vaccine, suggests potentially novel designs for conjugate vaccines. A fully synthetic conjugate vaccine was constructed from a 1,2-linked β-mannose trisaccharide conjugated to a T-cell peptide, previously shown to afford protection against Candida albicans. This combined B- and T-cell epitope was synthesized with a C-terminal azidolysine residue for subsequent conjugation by click chemistry. Four copies of a β-1,3 linked hexaglucan dendritic cell epitope were conjugated to an asymmetric dendrimer bearing an alkyne terminated tether. Click chemistry of these two components created a conjugate vaccine that induced antibodies to all three epitopes of the fully synthetic construct.
‘O-GlcNAc Code’ Mediated Biological Functions of Downstream Proteins
Authors: Zhao Linhong , Shah Junaid Ali , Cai Yong , Jin Jingji
Published: August 2018

As one of the post-translational modifications, O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) modification (O-GlcNAcylation) often occurs on serine (Ser) and threonine (Thr) residues of specific substrate cellular proteins via the addition of O-GlcNAc group by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT). Maintenance of normal intracellular levels of O-GlcNAcylation is controlled by OGT and glycoside hydrolase O-GlcNAcase (OGA). Unbalanced O-GlcNAcylation levels have been involved in many diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease. Recent research data reveal that O-GlcNAcylation at histones or non-histone proteins may provide recognition platforms for subsequent protein recruitment and further initiate intracellular biological processes. Here, we review the current understanding of the ‘O-GlcNAc code’ mediated intracellular biological functions of downstream proteins.
Recent Advances in the Microwave-Assisted Production of Hydroxymethylfurfural by Hydrolysis of Cellulose Derivatives—A Review
Authors: Delbecq Frederic , Len Christophe
Published: August 2018

The concepts of sustainable development, bioeconomy, and circular economy are being increasingly applied for the synthesis of molecules of industrial interest. Among these molecules, hydroxymethylfurfural as a platform molecule is the subject of various research approaches to improve its synthesis and productivity, and extend its potential uses. Accordingly, this review paper aims essentially at outlining recent breakthroughs obtained in the field of hydroxymethylfurfural production from sugars and polysaccharide feedstocks under microwave-assisted technology. The review discusses advances obtained via microwave activation in major production pathways recently explored, split into the following categories: (i) use of various homogeneous catalysts like mineral or organic acids, metal salts, or ionic liquids; (ii) feedstock dehydration making use of various solid acid catalysts; and (iii) non-catalytic routes.
Effect of Sharp Diameter Geometrical Modulation on the Magnetization Reversal of Bi-Segmented FeNi Nanowires
Authors: Méndez Miguel , Vega Víctor , González Silvia , Caballero-Flores Rafael , García Javier , Prida Víctor M.
Published: August 2018

Controlling functional properties of matter and combining them for engineering a functional device is, nowadays, a common direction of the scientific community. For instance, heterogeneous magnetic nanostructures can make use of different types of geometrical and compositional modulations to achieve the control of the magnetization reversal along with the nano-entities and, thus, enable the fabrication of spintronic, magnetic data storage, and sensing devices, among others. In this work, diameter-modulated FeNi nanowires are fabricated paying special effort to obtain sharp transition regions between two segments of different diameters (from about 450 nm to 120 nm), enabling precise control over the magnetic behavior of the sample. Micromagnetic simulations performed on single bi-segmented nanowires predict a double step magnetization reversal where the wide segment magnetization switches near 16 kA/m through a vortex domain wall, while at 40 kA/m the magnetization of the narrow segment is reversed through a corkscrew-like mechanism. Finally, these results are confirmed with magneto-optic Kerr effect measurements at the transition of isolated bi-segmented nanowires. Furthermore, macroscopic vibrating sample magnetometry is used to demonstrate that the magnetic decoupling of nanowire segments is the main phenomenon occurring over the entire fabricated nanowires.
Encapsulation of Cinnamon Essential Oil for Active Food Packaging Film with Synergistic Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Niu Ben , Yan Zhipeng , Shao Ping , Kang Ji , Chen Hangjun
Published: August 2018

Porous adsorption, a less powerful adsorptive force than chemical bonds, is based on the physical adsorption of small molecules onto a solid surface that is capable of adsorbing gas or liquid molecules. Antimicrobial permutite composite (containing Ag+, Zn2+ and Ag+/Zn2+), starting from Linde Type A-permutite (LTA), was obtained in this research. The permutite samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), colorimeter and nitrogen adsorption technique. Cinnamon essential oil (CEO) was encapsulated into Ag+/Zn2+-permutite. The FT-IR and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed that no chemical bond existed between CEO and Ag+/Zn2+-permutite. The loading capacity of Ag+/Zn2+-permutite/CEO was 313.07 µL/g, and it had a sustained release effect. The Ag+/Zn2+-permutite/CEO showed stronger efficacy against Aspergillus niger and Penicillium sp. than Ag+/Zn2+-permutite. Ethyl cellulose pads modified by composite antimicrobial particles were applied in the preservation of Chinese bayberry. Compared to the control group, treatment with the Ag+/Zn2+-permutite/CEO antimicrobial pads resulted in a significantly lower decay incidence. In addition, the amount of migrated silver, zinc and aluminum from LTA was below the legal limit. These results confirmed that the ethyl cellulose pads modified by the Ag+/Zn2+-permutite/CEO provided an active packaging to control decay of fresh Chinese bayberry.
Band Gap Implications on Nano-TiO2 Surface Modification with Ascorbic Acid for Visible Light-Active Polypropylene Coated Photocatalyst
Authors: D’Amato Chiara Anna , Giovannetti Rita , Zannotti Marco , Rommozzi Elena , Minicucci Marco , Gunnella Roberto , Di Cicco Andrea
Published: August 2018

The effect of surface modification using ascorbic acid as a surface modifier of nano-TiO2 heterogeneous photocatalyst was studied. The preparation of supported photocatalyst was made by a specific paste containing ascorbic acid modified TiO2 nanoparticles used to cover Polypropylene as a support material. The obtained heterogeneous photocatalyst was thoroughly characterized (scanning electron microscope (SEM), RAMAN, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence (PL), and Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (DRS) and successfully applied in the visible light photodegradation of Alizarin Red S in water solutions. In particular, this new supported TiO2 photocatalyst showed a change in the adsorption mechanism of dye with respect to that of only TiO2 due to the surface properties. In addition, an improvement of photocatalytic performances in the visible light photodegration was obtained, showing a strict correlation between efficiency and energy band gap values, evidencing the favorable surface modification of TiO2 nanoparticles.
Paeoniflorin Ameliorates Fructose-Induced Insulin Resistance and Hepatic Steatosis by Activating LKB1/AMPK and AKT Pathways
Authors: Li Yu-Cheng , Qiao Jing-Yi , Wang Bao-Ying , Bai Ming , Shen Ji-Duo , Cheng Yong-Xian
Published: August 2018

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of paeoniflorin on insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis induced by fructose. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed 20% fructose drink for eight weeks. The insulin sensitivity, serum lipid profiles, and hepatic lipids contents were measured. The results showed that paeoniflorin significantly decreased serum insulin and glucagon levels, improved insulin sensitivity and serum lipids profiles, and alleviated hepatic steatosis in fructose-fed rats. Moreover, paeoniflorin enhanced the phosphorylation level of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and protein kinase B (PKB/AKT) and inhibited the phosphorylation of acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC)1 in liver. Paeoniflorin also increased the hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT)-1 mRNA and protein expression and decreased the mRNA expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)1c, stearyl coenzyme A decarboxylase (SCD)-1 and fatty acid synthetase (FAS). Furthermore, we found that paeoniflorin significantly increased the heptatic protein expression of tumor suppressor serine/threonine kinase (LKB)1 but not Ca2+/CaM-dependent protein kinase kinase (CaMKK)β. These results suggest that the protective effects of paeoniflorin might be involved in the activation of LKB1/AMPK and insulin signaling, which resulted in the inhibition of lipogenesis, as well as the activation of β-oxidation and glycogenesis, thus ameliorated the insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. The present study may provide evidence for the beneficial effects of paeoniflorin in the treatment of insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver.
Fat-to-Muscle Ratio: A New Anthropometric Indicator as a Screening Tool for Metabolic Syndrome in Young Colombian People
Authors: Ramírez-Vélez Robinson , Carrillo Hugo Alejandro , Correa-Bautista Jorge Enrique , Schmidt-RioValle Jacqueline , González-Jiménez Emilio , Correa-Rodríguez María , González-Ruíz Katherine , García-Hermoso Antonio
Published: August 2018

Fat-to-muscle ratio has been proposed as an alternative approach for assessing body fat. The objective of this study was to explore fat-to-muscle ratio thresholds in metabolic syndrome (MetS) diagnosis; it was hypothesised that the fat-to-muscle ratio is a good predictive indicator of MetS in a large population of young Colombian adults. For this purpose, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 1416 subjects (66.6% female), aged from 18.1 to 25.1. As part of the study, measurements of the subjects’ anthropometric indicators, serum lipid indices, blood pressure, and fasting plasma glucose were taken. Body composition was measured through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). A new variable (ratio of fat mass to muscle mass, in kg) was calculated. Following the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definition, MetS includes three or more metabolic abnormalities. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and logistic regression determined the discriminatory ability of the fat-to-muscle ratio to predict MetS. According to the IDF, the best fat-to-muscle ratio cut-off point for detecting MetS in men was 0.225 kg, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83, sensitivity of 80%, and specificity of 70%. For women, the fat-to-muscle ratio cut-off point was 0.495 kg, the AUC was 0.88, and the sensitivity and specificity were 82% and 80%, respectively. In conclusion, our results showed that the fat-to-muscle ratio cut-off points from ROC analyses demonstrate good discriminatory power for detecting MetS in young Colombian adults.
Volatile Terpenes and Brain Function: Investigation of the Cognitive and Mood Effects of Mentha × Piperita L. Essential Oil with In Vitro Properties Relevant to Central Nervous System Function
Authors: Kennedy David , Okello Edward , Chazot Paul , Howes Melanie-Jayne , Ohiomokhare Samuel , Jackson Philippa , Haskell-Ramsay Crystal , Khan Julie , Forster Joanne , Wightman Emma
Published: August 2018

Background: Extracts of several members of the monoterpene-rich Lamiaceae sub-family Nepetoideae, including those from the Salvia (sage), Melissa (Lemon balm) and Rosmarinus (rosemary) genera, evince cognitive and mood effects in humans that are potentially related to their effects on cholinergic and GABAergic neurotransmission. To date, despite promising in vitro properties, the cognitive and mood effects of the closely related Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) remain unexplored. This study therefore assessed the human cognitive/mood effects of the M. spicata/piperita essential oil with the most promising, brain-relevant in vitro properties according to pre-trial in vitro screening. Design: Organic spearmint and peppermint (Mentha spicata/piperita) essential oils were pre-screened for neurotransmitter receptor binding and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced cross-over study, 24 participants (mean age 25.2 years) consumed single doses of encapsulated placebo and 50 µL and 100 µL of the most promising essential oil (peppermint with nicotinic/GABAA receptor binding and AChE inhibitory properties, that increased calcium influx in a CAD cell neuronal model). Psychological functioning was assessed with mood scales and a range of standardised, cognitively demanding tasks pre-dose and at 1, 3 and 6 h post-dose. Results: The highest (100 µL) dose of essential oil improved performance on the cognitively demanding Rapid Visual Information Processing task (RVIP) at 1 h and 3 h post-dose and both doses attenuated fatigue and improved performance of the Serial 3 s subtraction task at 3 h post-dose. Conclusion: Peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil with high levels of menthol/menthone and characteristic in vitro cholinergic inhibitory, calcium regulatory and GABAA/nicotinic receptor binding properties, beneficially modulated performance on demanding cognitive tasks and attenuated the increase in mental fatigue associated with extended cognitive task performance in healthy adults. Future investigations should consider investigating higher doses.
Osteoarthritis and the Mediterranean Diet: A Systematic Review
Authors: Morales-Ivorra Isabel , Romera-Baures Montserrat , Roman-Viñas Blanca , Serra-Majem Lluis
Published: August 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects 240 million people globally. Few studies have examined the links between osteoarthritis and the Mediterranean diet (MD). The aim of this paper was to systematically review and analyze the epidemiological evidence in humans on the MD and its association with OA. A systematic search of EMBASE identified three studies that explored the association between MD and OA. Two of them were cross-sectional and the third one was a 16-week randomized clinical trial. Prisma declaration was followed to carry out this review. These studies described a positive association between a higher adherence to a MD and the quality of life of participants suffering OA. The prevalence of OA was lower in participants with a higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet. Biomarkers of inflammation and cartilage degradation related to OA were also analyzed and significant differences were detected only for IL1-α, which decreased in the MD group. Exploring the relationship between MD and OA is complex, moreover, the limited evidence and methodological differences in such studies makes it difficult to compare results. In conclusion, the three studies included in this systematic review demonstrated some relation between osteoarthritis and a Mediterranean diet. However, prospective and longer interventions are required to evaluate the long-term efficacy of the Mediterranean diet to improve symptomatology and preventing osteoarthritis.
Dietary Carotenoids Intake and the Risk of Gastric Cancer: A Case—Control Study in Korea
Authors: Kim Ji Hyun , Lee Jeonghee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Il , Kwon Oran , Kim Hyesook , Kim Jeongseon
Published: August 2018

Although the incidence of gastric cancer (GC) has declined, it remains the second most common cancer in Korea. As a class of phytochemicals, carotenoids are fat-soluble pigments that are abundant in fruits and vegetables and have health-promoting properties, including cancer prevention effects. This case-control study investigated the effects of total dietary carotenoids, dietary carotenoid subclasses (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene), and foods contributing to the dietary intake of each carotenoid on the risk of GC. Four hundred and fifteen cases and 830 controls were recruited from the National Cancer Center Hospital in Korea between March 2011 and December 2014. A significant inverse association between total dietary carotenoids and GC risk was observed among women (odds ratio (OR) 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32–0.99). A higher intake of dietary lycopene was inversely associated with GC risk overall in the subjects (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.42–0.85, p for trend = 0.012), men (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.39–0.93), and women (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.30–0.96, p for trend = 0.039). This significant association between dietary lycopene intake and GC risk was also observed in the subgroups of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-positive subjects and those who had ever smoked. Among the major contributing foods of dietary lycopene, consumption of tomatoes and tomato ketchup was inversely associated with GC risk in the overall subjects, men, and women. Based on our findings, a higher intake of dietary lycopene and contributing foods of lycopene (tomatoes and tomato ketchup) may be inversely associated with the risk of GC.
Training Needs of Manitoba Pharmacists to Increase Application of Assessment and Prescribing for Minor Ailments into Practice: A Qualitative and Quantitative Survey
Authors: Shearer Brenna , Ng Sheila , Dunford Drena , Kuo I fan
Published: August 2018

Current literature demonstrates the positive impact of pharmacists prescribing medication on patient outcomes and pharmacist perceptions of the practice. The aim of this study was to understand the factors affecting prescribing practices among Manitoba pharmacists and identify whether additional training methods would be beneficial for a practice behavior change. A web-based survey was developed and participation was solicited from pharmacists in Manitoba. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize the frequency of demographic characteristics. Chi-square tests were used to explore possible correlations between variables of interest and thematic analysis of qualitative data was completed. A total of 162 participants completed the survey. The response rate was 12.3%. Of those who had met the requirements to prescribe, none were doing so on a daily basis and 23.5% had not assessed or prescribed since being certified. Respondents identified the top barriers for providing this service as a lack of sufficient revenue and a lack of time. Qualitative analysis of responses identified additional barriers including a limiting scope and inadequate tools. Approximately half (54.4%) of respondents expressed that additional training would be of value. The themes identified from the survey data suggest that practice-based education would help pharmacists apply skills. In addition, expansion of prescribing authority and strategies addressing remuneration issues may help overcome barriers to pharmacists prescribing within Manitoba.
Three Methods of Estimating Mesophyll Conductance Agree Regarding its CO2 Sensitivity in the Rubisco-Limited Ci Range
Authors: Bunce James
Published: August 2018

Whether the mesophyll conductance to CO2 movement (gm) within leaves of C3 plants changes with CO2 concentration remains a matter of debate, particularly at low CO2 concentrations. We tested for changes in gm over the range of sub-stomatal CO2 concentrations (Ci) for which Rubisco activity limited photosynthesis (A) in three plant species grown under the same conditions. Mesophyll conductance was estimated by three independent methods: the oxygen sensitivity of photosynthesis, variable J fluorescence combined with gas exchange, and the curvature of the Rubisco-limited A vs. Ci curve. The latter assay used a new method of rapidly obtaining data points at approximately every 3 μmol mol−1 for Rubisco-limited A vs. Ci curves, allowing separate estimates of curvature over limited Ci ranges. In two species, soybean and sunflower, no change in gm with Ci was detected using any of the three methods of estimating gm. In common bean measured under the same conditions as the other species, all three methods indicated large decreases in gm with increasing Ci. Therefore, change in gm with Ci in the Rubsico-limited region of A vs. Ci curves depended on the species, but not on the method of estimating gm.