bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Particle Velocity When Propelled Using N2 or N2-He Mixed Gas on the Properties of Cold-Sprayed Ti6Al4V Coatings
Authors: Tan Adrian Wei-Yee , Lek Jun Yan , Sun Wen , Bhowmik Ayan , Marinescu Iulian , Song Xu , Zhai Wei , Li Feng , Dong Zhili , Boothroyd Chris B. , Liu Erjia
Published: September 2018

Cold-spraying is a relatively new low-temperature coating technology which produces coatings by the deposition of metallic micro-particles at supersonic speed onto target substrate surfaces. This technology has the potential to enhance or restore damaged parts made of light metal alloys, such as Ti6Al4V (Ti64). Particle deposition velocity is one of the most crucial parameters for achieving high-quality coatings because it is the main driving force for particle bonding and coating formation. In this work, studies were conducted on the evolution of the properties of cold-sprayed Ti64 coatings deposited on Ti64 substrates with particle velocities ranging from 730 to 855 m/s using pure N2 and N2-He mixture as the propellant gases. It was observed that the increase in particle velocity significantly reduced the porosity level from about 11 to 1.6% due to greater densification. The coatings’ hardness was also improved with increased particle velocity due to the intensified grain refinement within the particles. Interestingly, despite the significant differences in the coating porosities, all the coatings deposited within the velocity range (below and above critical velocity) achieved a high adhesion strength exceeding 60 MPa. The fractography also showed changes in the degree of dimple fractures on the particles across the deposition velocities. Finite element modelling was carried out to understand the deformation behaviour of the impacting particles and the evolutions of strain and temperature in the formed coatings during the spraying process. This work also showed that the N2-He gas mixture was a cost-effective propellant gas (up to 3-times cheaper than pure He) to deliver the high-quality Ti64 coatings.
Photoactivated Self-Sanitizing Chlorophyllin-Containing Coatings to Prevent Microbial Contamination in Packaged Food
Authors: López-Carballo Gracia , Hernández-Muñoz Pilar , Gavara Rafael
Published: September 2018

Chlorophyllins are semi-synthetic porphyrins obtained from chlorophyll that—when exposed to visible light—generate radical oxygen substances with antimicrobial activity. In this work, chlorophyllins incorporated with polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), (hydroxypropyl)methyl cellulose (HPMC), and gelatin (G) were formulated for application as coatings in packages providing antimicrobial activity after photoactivation. First, the antimicrobial properties of two porphyrins (sodium magnesium chlorophyllin, E-140, and sodium copper chlorophyllin, E-141) were analyzed against L. monocytogenes and Escherichia coli. The results indicated that E-140 was more active than E-141 and that chlorophyllins were more effective against Gram-positive bacteria. In addition, both chlorophyllins were more efficient when irradiated with halogen lamps than with LEDs, and they were inactive in dark conditions. Then, coatings on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film were prepared, and their effect against the test bacteria was similar to that shown previously with pure chlorophyllins, i.e., greater activity in films containing E-140. Among the coating matrices, those based on PE presented the least effect (1 log reduction), whereas PVOH, HPMC, and G were lethal (7 log reduction). The self-sanitizing effect of these coatings was also analyzed by contaminating the surface of the coatings and irradiating them through the PET surface, which showed high efficiency, although the activity of the coatings was limited to L. monocytogenes. Finally, coated films were applied as separators of bologna slices. After irradiation, all the films showed count reductions of L. monocytogenes and the usual microbial load; the gelatin coating was the most effective, with an average of 3 log reduction.
Tutorials for Integrating CAD/CAM in Engineering Curricula
Authors: Ullah AMM Sharif , Harib Khalifa H.
Published: September 2018

This article addresses the issue of educating engineering students with the knowledge and skills of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). In particular, three carefully designed tutorials—cutting tool offsetting, tool-path generation for freeform surfaces, and the integration of advanced machine tools (e.g., hexapod-based machine tools) with solid modeling—are described. The tutorials help students gain an in-depth understanding of how the CAD/CAM-relevant hardware devices and software packages work in real-life settings. At the same time, the tutorials help students achieve the following educational outcomes: (1) an ability to apply the knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering; (2) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet the desired needs, (3) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems; and (4) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools that are necessary for engineering practice. The tutorials can be modified for incorporating other contemporary issues (e.g., additive manufacturing, reverse engineering, and sustainable manufacturing), which can be delved into as a natural extension of this study.
Effect of Vegetation Management and Site Conditions on Volume, Biomass and Leaf Area Allometry of Four Coniferous Species in the Pacific Northwest United States
Authors: Gonzalez-Benecke Carlos A. , Flamenco Herman N. , Wightman Maxwell G.
Published: September 2018

Allometric equations are useful tools for calculating tree and stand-level attributes, such as above-ground biomass or stem volume, using simple measurements that can be obtained from stand inventory data. These equations tend to be species-specific and can be affected by site conditions and silvicultural treatments. Forest vegetation management treatments (VM) are an important component of reforestation programs in the Pacific Northwest of the United States; however, no study has investigated the impact of these treatments on crop tree allometry. In this study we assessed the long-term effects of two contrasting VM treatments on the allometry of sixteen-year-old Douglas-fir, western hemlock, western redcedar, and grand fir trees growing in Oregon’s central Coast Range (CR) and fifteen-year-old Douglas-fir and western redcedar trees growing in Oregon’s Cascade foothills (CF). The VM treatments included a control which received only a pre-planting herbicide application and a VM treatment consisting of five consecutive years of vegetation control after planting. The equations developed in this study were species-specific and were not affected by VM with the exception of western redcedar foliage biomass. For western redcedar, tress of similar diameter had more foliage biomass when growing on plots without VM after planting. The allometry of Douglas-fir and western redcedar was also found to be affected by site, such that trees of similar diameter and height had larger stem volume when growing at the CR site than the CF site. This difference in stem volume was found to be the result of differences in stem tapering. There was a strong relationship between stand basal area and leaf area index that was the same for all species tested and was unaffected by site. The equations presented in this study are useful for calculating stem volume, leaf area and individual tree and component biomass for stands of the studied species that are of similar age.
A Statistical Method for Observing Personal Diploid Methylomes and Transcriptomes with Single-Molecule Real-Time Sequencing
Authors: Suzuki Yuta , Wang Yunhao , Au Kin Fai , Morishita Shinichi
Published: September 2018

We address the problem of observing personal diploid methylomes, CpG methylome pairs of homologous chromosomes that are distinguishable with respect to phased heterozygous variants (PHVs), which is challenging due to scarcity of PHVs in personal genomes. Single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing is promising as it outputs long reads with CpG methylation information, but a serious concern is whether reliable PHVs are available in erroneous SMRT reads with an error rate of ∼15%. To overcome the issue, we propose a statistical model that reduces the error rate of phasing CpG site to 1%, thereby calling CpG hypomethylation in each haplotype with >90% precision and sensitivity. Using our statistical model, we examined GNAS complex locus known for a combination of maternally, paternally, or biallelically expressed isoforms, and observed allele-specific methylation pattern almost perfectly reflecting their respective allele-specific expression status, demonstrating the merit of elucidating comprehensive personal diploid methylomes and transcriptomes.
Geological Model of a Storage Complex for a CO2 Storage Operation in a Naturally-Fractured Carbonate Formation
Authors: Le Gallo Yann , De Dios José Carlos
Published: September 2018

Investigation into geological storage of CO2 is underway at Hontomín (Spain). The storage reservoir is a deep saline aquifer formed by naturally fractured carbonates with low matrix permeability. Understanding the processes that are involved in CO2 migration within these formations is key to ensure safe operation and reliable plume prediction. A geological model encompassing the whole storage complex was established based upon newly-drilled and legacy wells. The matrix characteristics were mainly obtained from the newly drilled wells with a complete suite of log acquisitions, laboratory works and hydraulic tests. The model major improvement is the integration of the natural fractures. Following a methodology that was developed for naturally fractured hydrocarbon reservoirs, the advanced characterization workflow identified the main sets of fractures and their main characteristics, such as apertures, orientations, and dips. Two main sets of fracture are identified based upon their mean orientation: North-South and East-West with different fracture density for each the facies. The flow capacity of the fracture sets are calibrated on interpreted injection tests by matching their permeability and aperture at the Discrete Fracture Network scale and are subsequently upscaled to the geological model scale. A key new feature of the model is estimated permeability anisotropy induced by the fracture sets.
Building-Related Environmental Intolerance and Associated Health in the General Population
Authors: Karvala Kirsi , Sainio Markku , Palmquist Eva , Claeson Anna-Sara , Nyback Maj-Helen , Nordin Steven
Published: September 2018

People frequently attribute adverse symptoms to particular buildings when exposure to pollutants is low, within nonhazardous levels. Our aim was to characterize building-related intolerance (BRI) in the general population. Data were derived from two population-based questionnaire surveys, the Västerbotten and Österbotten Environmental Health Study. We identified cases of BRI if respondents reported symptoms emerging from residing in certain buildings, when most other people had none. The questionnaires covered lifestyle factors, perceived general health, BRI duration and symptom frequency, the emotional and behavioral impact of BRI, coping strategies, and physician-diagnosed diseases. From the total of 4941 participants, we formed two case groups, 275 (5.6%) fulfilled criteria for self-reported BRI, and 123 (2.5%) for BRI with wide-ranging symptoms. Individuals in both case groups were significantly more often female, single, and perceived their general health as poorer than the referents, i.e., those reporting no BRI symptoms. The mean duration of BRI was 12 years. In both case groups, avoidance behavior was found in over 60%, and nearly half of the sample had sought medical care. BRI with wide-ranging symptoms was associated with elevated odds for all studied comorbidities (somatic and psychiatric diseases and functional somatic syndromes). The perceived health of individuals with BRI is poorer and comorbidities are more frequent than among referents. BRI seems to be similar to other environmental intolerances and shares features with functional somatic syndromes.
Shadow Puppets and Neglected Diseases: Evaluating a Health Promotion Performance in Rural Indonesia
Authors: Kurscheid Johanna , Bendrups Dan , Susilo Joko , Williams Courtney , Amaral Salvador , Laksono Budi , Stewart Donald E. , Gray Darren J.
Published: September 2018

‘Rama and the Worm’ is a shadow puppet production targeting neglected diseases in Central Java. It is an entertainment-based intervention study to promote health by reducing the impact of parasitic diseases such as soil-transmitted helminths (STH). The study uses traditional Javanese shadow puppetry (wayang kulit) as a vehicle in village communities to disseminate health messages and promote behaviour change to prevent diseases caused, primarily, by inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene. The health education messages contained in the play, although using traditional characters and themes, required the creation of a completely new narrative script, using characters and plot lines familiar to the wayang kulit repertoire, but placing them in new situations that relate specifically to health promotion objectives. The intervention was piloted in a village in Central Java, Indonesia using a pre/post design with both qualitative and quantitative analysis. A total of 96 male and female villagers, aged between 7 and 87 years, provided both baseline and follow up data. Participant knowledge and behaviours related to gastrointestinal and helminth-related disease were assessed before and after the intervention through a questionnaire administered by interview. Results revealed statistically significant improvements in both knowledge (48.6% pre-intervention score vs. 62.8% post-intervention score, p < 0.001) and behaviour (77.4% vs. 80.6%, p = 0.004) related to gastrointestinal and helminth disease. Findings of the study indicate the wayang kulit performance is an effective health education tool. The results provide proof of concept with scaling up the next step forward. The wayang kulit production provides a significant additional component for an integrated, comprehensive approach to reduction and elimination of STH infection.
Evaluating the Accessibility of Healthcare Facilities Using an Integrated Catchment Area Approach
Authors: Pan Xiaofang , Kwan Mei-Po , Yang Lin , Zhou Shunping , Zuo Zejun , Wan Bo
Published: September 2018

Accessibility is a major method for evaluating the distribution of service facilities and identifying areas in shortage of service. Traditional accessibility methods, however, are largely model-based and do not consider the actual utilization of services, which may lead to results that are different from those obtained when people’s actual behaviors are taken into account. Based on taxi GPS trajectory data, this paper proposed a novel integrated catchment area (ICA) that integrates actual human travel behavior to evaluate the accessibility to healthcare facilities in Shenzhen, China, using the enhanced two-step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) method. This method is called the E2SFCA-ICA method. First, access probability is proposed to depict the probability of visiting a healthcare facility. Then, integrated access probability (IAP), which integrates model-based access probability (MAP) and data-based access probability (DAP), is presented. Under the constraint of IAP, ICA is generated and divided into distinct subzones. Finally, the ICA and subzones are incorporated into the E2SFCA method to evaluate the accessibility of the top-tier hospitals in Shenzhen, China. The results show that the ICA not only reduces the differences between model-based catchment areas and data-based catchment areas, but also distinguishes the core catchment area, stable catchment area, uncertain catchment area and remote catchment area of healthcare facilities. The study also found that the accessibility of Shenzhen’s top-tier hospitals obtained with traditional catchment areas tends to be overestimated and more unequally distributed in space when compared to the accessibility obtained with integrated catchment areas.
Quantitative Assessment of Relationship between Population Exposure to PM2.5 and Socio-Economic Factors at Multiple Spatial Scales over Mainland China
Authors: Yao Ling , Huang Changchun , Jing Wenlong , Yue Xiafang , Xu Yuyue
Published: September 2018

Analyzing the association between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution and socio-economic factors has become a major concern in public health. Since traditional analysis methods (such as correlation analysis and geographically weighted regression) cannot provide a full assessment of this relationship, the quantile regression method was applied to overcome such a limitation at different spatial scales in this study. The results indicated that merely 3% of the population and 2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) occurred under an annually mean value of 35 μg/m3 in mainland China, and the highest population exposure to PM2.5 was located in a lesser-known city named Dazhou in 2014. The analysis results at three spatial scales (grid-level, county-level, and city-level) demonstrated that the grid-level was the optimal spatial scale for analysis of socio-economic effects on exposure due to its tiny uncertainty, and the population exposure to PM2.5 was positively related to GDP. An apparent upward trend of population exposure to PM2.5 emerged at the 80th percentile GDP. For a 10 thousand yuan rise in GDP, population exposure to PM2.5 increases by 1.05 person/km2 at the 80th percentile, and 1.88 person/km2 at the 95th percentile, respectively.
Oxidative Stress-Protective and Anti-Melanogenic Effects of Loliolide and Ethanol Extract from Fresh Water Green Algae, Prasiola japonica
Authors: Park Sang Hee , Choi Eunju , Kim Sunggyu , Kim Dong Sam , Kim Ji Hyeon , Chang SeokGu , Choi Jae Seok , Park Kyung Ja , Roh Kyung-Baeg , Lee Jongsung , Yoo Byong Chul , Cho Jae Youl
Published: September 2018

Loliolide is a monoterpenoid hydroxylactone found in many algae, including fresh water green algae, Prasiola japonica. To date, loliolide and compounds in P. japonica have not been studied systematically with respect to skin pharmacology. In this study, we investigated oxidative stress-protective and anti-melanogenic effects of loliolide and P. japonica ethanol extract (Pj-EE), known to contain loliolide, in human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells and mouse melanoma (B16F10) cells. Loliolide suppressed the transcription of genes encoding matrix metalloproteinases (MMPS), which were induced in HaCaT cells by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment. Loliolide and Pj-EE not only reduced the melanin secretion and content in B16F10 cells but also increased the expression of the antioxidant proteins nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in HaCaT cells subjected to H2O2 treatment. Furthermore, loliolide and Pj-EE decreased expression of the anti-melanogenic protein microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase in B16F10 cells subjected to α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) treatment. Our findings demonstrate that loliolide and Pj-EE have antioxidant and anti-melanogenic effects on skin.
MePHD1 as a PHD-Finger Protein Negatively Regulates ADP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase Small Subunit1a Gene in Cassava
Authors: Ma Ping’an , Chen Xin , Liu Chen , Xia Zhiqiang , Song Yu , Zeng Changying , Li Youzhi , Wang Wenquan
Published: September 2018

ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase) is an important enzyme in the starch synthesis pathway. Its enzyme activity can determine the efficiency of starch biosynthesis. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is the main staple crop worldwide and has a high starch content in its storage root. However, the inner regulatory mechanism of AGPase gene family is unclear. MePHD1; a plant homeodomain transcription factor; was isolated through a yeast one-hybrid screening using the promoter of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase small subunit1a (MeAGPS1a) as bait, and cassava storage root cDNA library as prey. This factor could bind to the MeAGPS1a promoter in vitro and in vivo, and its predicted binding region ranged from −400 bp to −201 bp, at the translation initiation site. The transcript level of MePHD1 could be induced by five plant hormones, and a temperature of 42 °C. This was down-regulated during the maturation process of the storage root. MePHD1 protein could repress the promoter activity of MeAGPS1a gene by a dual-luciferase assay; which indicated that MePHD1 is a negative regulator for the transcript level of MeAGPS1a gene.
Molecular Communication of a Dying Neuron in Stroke
Authors: Puig Berta , Brenna Santra , Magnus Tim
Published: September 2018

When a main artery of the brain occludes, a cellular response involving multiple cell types follows. Cells directly affected by the lack of glucose and oxygen in the neuronal core die by necrosis. In the periphery surrounding the ischemic core (the so-called penumbra) neurons, astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, pericytes, and endothelial cells react to detrimental factors such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in different ways. The fate of the neurons in this area is multifactorial, and communication between all the players is important for survival. This review focuses on the latest research relating to synaptic loss and the release of apoptotic bodies and other extracellular vesicles for cellular communication in stroke. We also point out possible treatment options related to increasing neuronal survival and regeneration in the penumbra.
Chalcone Derivatives 4′-Amino-1-Naphthyl-Chalcone (D14) and 4′-Amino-4-Methyl-1-Naphthyl-Chalcone (D15) Suppress Migration and Invasion of Osteosarcoma Cells Mediated by p53 Regulating EMT-Related Genes
Authors: Seba Viviane , Silva Gabriel , Santos Mariana Bastos dos , Baek Seung Joon , França Suzelei de Castro , Fachin Ana Lúcia , Regasini Luis Octavio , Marins Mozart
Published: September 2018

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary malignant bone tumor that mainly affects children, adolescents, and young adults. The inhibition of metastasis is a main strategy of OS therapy since the development of metastatic disease due to drug resistance remains the most important cause of death from this cancer. Considering the severe side effects of current OS chemotherapy, the identification of anti-metastatic drugs with reduced toxicity is of great interest. Chalcones are polyphenols with a basic structure consisting of an α-, β-unsaturated carbonyl system linking two aryl rings. These compounds exhibit anticancer activity against a variety of tumor cell lines through multiple mechanisms, including the regulation of the tumor-suppressor protein p53 and its target genes. An important process regulated by p53 is epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which facilitates tumor metastasis by conferring migratory and invasive properties to cancer cells. The activation of p53 can revert EMT and reduce migration and invasion. This study aimed to examine the inhibitory effects of two 4′-aminochalcones on the migration/invasion of the U2OS (p53+/+) and SAOS-2 (p53−/−) OS cell lines as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms. Cell viability was examined by MTT assay. Transwell assays were used to evaluate the migratory and invasive ability of the cells. The two 4′-aminochalcones showed low capacity to inhibit the viability of OS cells independent of p53 status, but preferentially suppressed the migration of U2OS cells and of a SAOS-2 cell line expressing p53. Invasion was strongly inhibited by both chalcones independent of p53 status. RT-PCR, zymography, and Western blot were used to study the expression of matrix metalloproteinases and EMT markers after treatment with the chalcones. The results indicated that the 4′-aminochalcone-induced antimigratory and anti-invasive effects are potentially associated with the inhibition of extracellular matrix (ECM) enzymatic degradation in OS cells and with the modulation of EMT genes. These effects probably result from the induced increase of p53 protein expression by the two chalcones. In conclusion, chalcones D14 and D15 have potential anti-metastatic activity mediated by p53 that can be exploited for OS treatment.
Increased Expression of Maturation Promoting Factor Components Speeds Up Meiosis in Oocytes from Aged Females
Authors: Koncicka Marketa , Tetkova Anna , Jansova Denisa , Del Llano Edgar , Gahurova Lenka , Kracmarova Jana , Prokesova Sarka , Masek Tomas , Pospisek Martin , Bruce Alexander W. , Kubelka Michal , Susor Andrej
Published: September 2018

The rate of chromosome segregation errors that emerge during meiosis I in the mammalian female germ line are known to increase with maternal age; however, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanism. The objective of this study was to analyze meiotic progression of mouse oocytes in relation to maternal age. Using the mouse as a model system, we analyzed the timing of nuclear envelope breakdown and the morphology of the nuclear lamina of oocytes obtained from young (2 months old) and aged females (12 months old). Oocytes obtained from older females display a significantly faster progression through meiosis I compared to the ones obtained from younger females. Furthermore, in oocytes from aged females, lamin A/C structures exhibit rapid phosphorylation and dissociation. Additionally, we also found an increased abundance of MPF components and increased translation of factors controlling translational activity in the oocytes of aged females. In conclusion, the elevated MPF activity observed in aged female oocytes affects precocious meiotic processes that can multifactorially contribute to chromosomal errors in meiosis I.
Self-Adaptive Multi-Sensor Activity Recognition Systems Based on Gaussian Mixture Models
Authors: Jänicke Martin , Sick Bernhard , Tomforde Sven
Published: September 2018

Personal wearables such as smartphones or smartwatches are increasingly utilized in everyday life. Frequently, activity recognition is performed on these devices to estimate the current user status and trigger automated actions according to the user’s needs. In this article, we focus on the creation of a self-adaptive activity recognition system based on IMU that includes new sensors during runtime. Starting with a classifier based on GMM, the density model is adapted to new sensor data fully autonomously by issuing the marginalization property of normal distributions. To create a classifier from that, label inference is done, either based on the initial classifier or based on the training data. For evaluation, we used more than 10 h of annotated activity data from the publicly available PAMAP2 benchmark dataset. Using the data, we showed the feasibility of our approach and performed 9720 experiments, to get resilient numbers. One approach performed reasonably well, leading to a system improvement on average, with an increase in the F-score of 0.0053, while the other one shows clear drawbacks due to a high loss of information during label inference. Furthermore, a comparison with state of the art techniques shows the necessity for further experiments in this area.
Developing an Open Space Standard in a Densely Populated City: A Case Study of Chittagong City
Authors: Jafrin Maharina , Beza Beau B.
Published: September 2018

In densely populated settings like Chittagong, Bangladesh cities facing rapid urbanization and economic growth are challenged to provide open space for its citizens. For example, the population of this port city is 14,200 people per square kilometer and there is a struggle to provide open space. Again, the planning proposal did not set any open space standard to achieve its open space aspirations Hence, the objectives of this paper are four-fold: (i) Develop an understanding of open space standards to establish relative benchmarks for potential use in Chittagong. (ii) Examine existing formal open space in Chittagong. (iii) Document the existing informal open space areas in Chittagong according to the planning direction. (iv) Recommend an approach that can be used to realize open spaces in Chittagong. To achieve these, this paper documents the existing open space scenario in the city, examines the recommended open space standards developed by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Dhaka Structural Plan (2016–2035) (the planning document of the capital city of Bangladesh) to identify to what extent these ‘benchmark’ standards are appropriate for use in the city. A discussion on open space in Chittagong and the criteria used to ‘frame’ open space calculations in the city is then conducted to provide a foundation to reflect upon the world’s various open space recommendations. Ultimately, by analyzing existing open space recommendations and their associated well-being aspirations, the research suggests that a new standard relating to the unique characteristics of the city should be used when developing open space standards in Chittagong.
Computational Structures and SAPT Interaction Energies of HXeSH···H2Y (Y=O or S) Complexes
Authors: Cukras Janusz , Skóra Grzegorz , Jankowska Joanna , Lundell Jan
Published: September 2018

Ab initio calculations of the structures, vibrational spectra and supermolecular and symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (SAPT) interaction energies of the HXeOH and HXeSH complexes with H2O and H2S molecules are presented. Two minima already reported in the literature were reproduced and ten new ones were found together with some transition states. All complexes show blue shift in Xe–H stretching mode upon complexation. The computed spectra suggest that it should be possible to detect and distinguish the complexes experimentally. The structures where H2O or H2S is the proton-donor were found to be the most stable for all complex compositions. The SAPT analysis shows significant differences between the complexes with H2O and H2S indicating much larger dispersion and exchange contributions in the complexes with H2S.
Photosystem II Is More Sensitive than Photosystem I to Al3+ Induced Phytotoxicity
Authors: Moustaka Julietta , Ouzounidou Georgia , Sperdouli Ilektra , Moustakas Michael
Published: September 2018

Aluminium (Al) the most abundant metal in the earth’s crust is toxic in acid soils (pH < 5.5) mainly in the ionic form of Al3+ species. The ability of crops to overcome Al toxicity varies among crop species and cultivars. Here, we report for a first time the simultaneous responses of photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI) to Al3+ phytotoxicity. The responses of PSII and PSI in the durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. cv. ‘Appulo E’) and the triticale (X Triticosecale Witmark cv. ‘Dada’) were evaluated by chlorophyll fluorescence quenching analysis and reflection spectroscopy respectively, under control (−Al, pH 6.5) and 148 μM Al (+Al, pH 4.5) conditions. During control growth conditions the high activity of PSII in ‘Appulo E’ led to a rather higher electron flow to PSI, which induced a higher PSI excitation pressure in ‘Appulo E’ than in ‘Dada’ that presented a lower PSII activity. However, under 148 μM Al the triticale ‘Dada’ presented a lower PSII and PSI excitation pressure than ‘Appulo E’. In conclusion, both photosystems of ‘Dada’ displayed a superior performance than ‘Appulo E’ under Al exposure, while in both cultivars PSII was more affected than PSI from Al3+ phytotoxicity.
Effect of Tow Size and Interface Interaction on Interfacial Shear Strength Determined by Iosipescu (V-Notch) Testing in Epoxy Resin
Authors: Stojceveski Filip , Hendlmeier Andreas , Randall James D. , Arnold Chantelle L. , Stanfield Melissa K. , Eyckens Daniel J. , Alexander Richard , Henderson Luke C.
Published: September 2018

Testing methodologies to accurately quantify interfacial shear strength (IFSS) are essential in order to understand fiber-matrix adhesion. While testing methods at a microscale (single filament fragmentation test—SFFT) and macroscale (Short Beam Shear—SBS) are wide spread, each have their own shortcomings. The Iosipescu (V-notch) tow test offers a mesoscale bridge between the microscale and macroscale whilst providing simple, accurate results with minimal time investment. However, the lack of investigations exploring testing variables has limited the application of Iosipescu testing to only a handful of studies. This paper assesses the effect of carbon fiber tow size within the Iosipescu tow test for epoxy resin. Tow sizes of 3, 6, and 9 k are eminently suitable, while more caution must be shown when examining 12, and 15 k tows. In this work, tows at 18 and 24 k demonstrated failure modes not derived from interfacial failure, but poor fiber wetting. A catalogue of common fracture geometries is discussed as a function of performance for the benefit of future researchers. Finally, a comparison of commercial (T300), amine (T300-Amine), and ethyl ester (T300-Ester) surface modified carbon fibers was conducted. The outcomes of this study showed that the Iosipescu tow test is inherently less sensitive in distinguishing between similar IFSS but provides a more ‘real world’ image of the carbon fiber-epoxy interface in a composite material.
Successful Aging and Chronic Osteoarthritis
Authors: Marks Ray
Published: September 2018

Background: Aging is commonly accepted as a time period of declining heath in most cases. This review aimed to examine the research base concerning the use of the term ‘successful aging’, a process and outcome deemed desirable, but challenging to attain. A second was to provide related information to demonstrate how health professionals as well as individuals can aim for a ‘successful aging’ process and outcome, despite the presence of disabling osteoarthritis. Methods: Information specifically focusing on ‘successful aging’ and the concept of improving opportunities for advancing ‘successful aging’ despite osteoarthritis was sought. Results: Among the many articles on ‘successful aging’, several authors highlight the need to include, a broader array of older adults into the conceptual framework. Moreover, conditions such as osteoarthritis should not necessarily preclude the individual from attaining a personally valued successful aging outcome. Conclusions: Pursuing more inclusive research and research designs, and not neglecting to include people with chronic osteoarthritis can potentially heighten the life quality of all aging individuals, while reducing pain and depression, among other adverse aging and disability correlates among those with osteoarthritis.
Aurihydrargyrumite, a Natural Au6Hg5 Phase from Japan
Authors: Nishio-Hamane Daisuke , Tanaka Takahiro , Minakawa Tetsuo
Published: September 2018

Aurihydrargyrumite, a natural Au6Hg5 phase, was found in Iyoki, Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku Island, Japan. Aurihydrargyrumite with a metallic silver luster occurs as a submicron- to 2 μm-thick layer on the outermost surface of the placer gold. A prismatic face may be formed by {001} and {100} or {110}. The streak is also silver white and its Mohs hardness value is ca. 2.5. Its tenacity is ductile and malleable, and its density, as calculated based on the empirical formula and powder unit-cell data, is 16.86 g·cm−3. The empirical formula of aurihydrargyrumite, on the basis of 11 Au + Hg, is Au5.95Hg5.05. Aurihydrargyrumite is hexagonal, P63/mcm, with the lattice parameters a = 6.9960(10) Å, c = 10.154(2) Å and V = 430.40(15) Å3, which is identical with the synthetic Au6Hg5 phase. The seven strongest lines in the powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern [d in Å(I/I0)(hkl)] were 2.877(29)(112), 2.434(42)(113), 2.337(100)(104), 2.234(87)(211), 1.401(39)(314), 1.301(41)(404), and 1.225(65)(217). Aurihydrargyrumite forms through the weathering of mercury-bearing placer gold by involvement of self-electrorefining. This new mineral has been approved by the IMA-CNMNC (2017-003) and it is named for its composition, being a natural amalgam of gold (Latin: aurum) and mercury (Latin: hydrargyrum).
Salidroside Improves Bone Histomorphology and Prevents Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Diabetic Rats by Upregulating the OPG/RANKL Ratio
Authors: Zheng Hongxing , Qi Shanshan , Chen Chen
Published: September 2018

Postmenopausal diabetic women have a high risk of fractures. Salidroside has preventive effects on estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis and has hypoglycemic effects on diabetes in rats. However, whether salidroside inhibits bone loss in postmenopausal diabetic patients is still unknown. Here, we established a rat model of osteoporosis to investigate the protective effects of salidroside on bone loss induced by ovariectomy combined with diabetes, also investigating the underlying mechanisms. Two-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three equal groups (10 rats in each group): control group (with sham operation, treated with drug vehicle); OVX/T1DM group (ovariectomized diabetic rats); OVX/T1DM-SAL group, comprising ovariectomized diabetic rats treated with salidroside (20 mg/kg body weight) by gavage. The results showed that after 60 consecutive days of treatment, the bone mineral density (BMD) of OVX/T1DM-SAL increased significantly compared with the OVX/T1DM group (p < 0.01). The level of serum bone turnover markers, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cross linked c-telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-1), osteocalcin, N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b) were all increased in the OVX/T1DM group compared with the control (p < 0.01), and those were decreased by salidroside treatment. Meanwhile, the bone histopathological changes were also attenuated, and the bone marrow adipogenesis was inhibited in salidroside treated rats. Moreover, protein and mRNA ratio of bone osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) was upregulated in ovariectomized diabetic rats by salidroside treatment. The results above indicated that the protective effect of salidroside on bone loss induced by ovariectomy and diabetes was mainly due to its ability to suppress bone turnover, inhibit bone marrow adipogenesis, and up-regulate the OPG/RANKL ratio.
Atmospheric-Pressure Cold Plasma Activating Au/P25 for CO Oxidation: Effect of Working Gas
Authors: Zhang Jingsen , Di Lanbo , Yu Feng , Duan Dongzhi , Zhang Xiuling
Published: September 2018

Commercial TiO2 (P25) supported gold (Au/P25) attracts increasing attention. In this work, atmospheric-pressure (AP) cold plasma was employed to activate the Au/P25-As catalyst prepared by a modified impregnation method. The influence of cold plasma working gas (oxygen, argon, hydrogen, and air) on the structure and performance of the obtained Au/P25 catalysts was investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray spectroscopy (XPS) were adopted to characterize the Au/P25 catalysts. CO oxidation was used as model reaction probe to test the Au/P25 catalyst. XRD results reveal that supporting gold and AP cold plasma activation have little effect on the P25 support. CO oxidation activity over the Au/P25 catalysts follows the order: Au/P25-O2P > Au/P25-As > Au/P25-ArP ≈ Au/P25-H2P > Au/P25-AirP. Au/P25-AirP presents the poorest CO oxidation catalytic activity among the Au/P25 catalysts, which may be ascribed to the larger size of gold nanoparticles, low concentration of active [O]s, as well as the poisoning [NOx]s. The poor catalytic performance of Au/P25-ArP and Au/P25-H2P is ascribed to the lower concentration of [O]s species. 100% CO conversion temperatures for Au/P25-O2P is 40 °C, which is 30 °C lower than that over the as-prepared Au/P25-As catalyst. The excellent CO oxidation activity over Au/P25-O2P is mainly attributed to the efficient decomposition of gold precursor species, small size of gold nanoparticles, and the high concentration of [O]s species.
Soybean Oil-Derived Poly-Unsaturated Fatty Acids Enhance Liver Damage in NAFLD Induced by Dietary Cholesterol
Authors: Henkel Janin , Alfine Eugenia , Saín Juliana , Jöhrens Korinna , Weber Daniela , Castro José , König Jeannette , Stuhlmann Christin , Vahrenbrink Madita , Jonas Wenke , Kleinridders André , Püschel Gerhard
Published: September 2018

While the impact of dietary cholesterol on the progression of atherosclerosis has probably been overestimated, increasing evidence suggests that dietary cholesterol might favor the transition from blunt steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), especially in combination with high fat diets. It is poorly understood how cholesterol alone or in combination with other dietary lipid components contributes to the development of lipotoxicity. The current study demonstrated that liver damage caused by dietary cholesterol in mice was strongly enhanced by a high fat diet containing soybean oil-derived ω6-poly-unsaturated fatty acids (ω6-PUFA), but not by a lard-based high fat diet containing mainly saturated fatty acids. In contrast to the lard-based diet the soybean oil-based diet augmented cholesterol accumulation in hepatocytes, presumably by impairing cholesterol-eliminating pathways. The soybean oil-based diet enhanced cholesterol-induced mitochondrial damage and amplified the ensuing oxidative stress, probably by peroxidation of poly-unsaturated fatty acids. This resulted in hepatocyte death, recruitment of inflammatory cells, and fibrosis, and caused a transition from steatosis to NASH, doubling the NASH activity score. Thus, the recommendation to reduce cholesterol intake, in particular in diets rich in ω6-PUFA, although not necessary to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, might be sensible for patients suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Overweight Children: Role of Fructose Intake and Dietary Pattern
Authors: Nier Anika , Brandt Annette , Conzelmann Ina , Özel Yelda , Bergheim Ina
Published: September 2018

The role of nutrition and diet in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is still not fully understood. In the present study, we determined if dietary pattern and markers of intestinal permeability differ between overweight children with and without NAFLD. In addition, in a feasibility study, we assessed the effect of a moderate dietary intervention only focusing on nutrients identified to differ between groups on markers of intestinal barrier function and health status. Anthropometric data, dietary intake, metabolic parameters, and markers of inflammation, as well as of intestinal permeability, were assessed in overweight children (n = 89, aged 5–9) and normal-weight healthy controls (n = 36, aged 5–9). Sixteen children suffered from early signs of NAFLD, e.g., steatosis grade 1 as determined by ultrasound. Twelve children showing early signs of NAFLD were enrolled in the intervention study (n = 6 intervention, n = 6 control). Body mass index (BMI), BMI standard deviation score (BMI-SDS), and waist circumference were significantly higher in NAFLD children than in overweight children without NAFLD. Levels of bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), and proinflammatory markers like interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were also significantly higher in overweight children with NAFLD compared to those without. Total energy and carbohydrate intake were higher in NAFLD children than in those without. The higher carbohydrate intake mainly resulted from a higher total fructose and glucose intake derived from a significantly higher consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. When counseling children with NAFLD regarding fructose intake (four times, 30–60 min within 1 year; one one-on-one counseling and three group counselings), neither alanine aminotransferase (ALT) nor aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity in serum changed; however, diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.05) and bacterial endotoxin levels (p = 0.06) decreased markedly in the intervention group after one year. Similar changes were not found in uncounseled children. Our results suggest that a sugar-rich diet might contribute to the development of early stages of NAFLD in overweight children, and that moderate dietary counseling might improve the metabolic status of overweight children with NAFLD.
Human Milk Casein and Whey Protein and Infant Body Composition over the First 12 Months of Lactation
Authors: Gridneva Zoya , Tie Wan J. , Rea Alethea , Lai Ching Tat , Ward Leigh C. , Murray Kevin , Hartmann Peter E. , Geddes Donna T.
Published: September 2018

Human milk (HM) influences infant feeding patterns and body composition (BC). This small proof-of concept longitudinal study investigated relationships between infant/maternal BC and HM casein, whey and total protein during the first 12 months of lactation. BC of breastfeeding dyads (n = 20) was measured at 2 (n = 15), 5 (n = 20), 9 (n = 19), and/or 12 (n = 18) months postpartum with ultrasound skinfolds (infants) and bioimpedance spectroscopy (infants/mothers). Proteins concentrations and 24-h milk intake were measured and calculated daily intakes (CDI) determined. Higher maternal weight, body mass index, fat-free mass, fat-free mass index, and fat mass index were associated with higher concentration of whey protein (p ≤ 0.034, n = 20). There were no associations between infant BC and concentrations of all proteins, and CDI of whey and total protein. Higher CDI of casein were associated with lower infant fat-free mass (p = 0.003, n = 18) and higher fat mass (p < 0.001), fat mass index (p = 0.001, n = 18), and % fat mass (p < 0.001, n = 18) measured with ultrasound skinfolds. These results show a differential effect of HM casein on development of infant BC during the first year of life, suggesting that there is a potential to improve outcome for the infant through interventions, such as continuation of breastfeeding during the first 12 months of life and beyond, which may facilitate favourable developmental programming that could reduce risk of non-communicable diseases later in life.
Coffee Consumption and the Risk of Depression in a Middle-Aged Cohort: The SUN Project
Authors: Navarro Adela M. , Abasheva Daria , Martínez-González Miguel Á. , Ruiz-Estigarribia Liz , Martín-Calvo Nerea , Sánchez-Villegas Almudena , Toledo Estefanía
Published: September 2018

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed drinks around the world, while depression is considered the major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. However, the investigation on coffee consumption and depression is limited and results may be confounded by the overall dietary pattern. We assessed the relationship between coffee intake and the risk of depression, controlling for adherence to the Mediterranean diet. We studied 14,413 university graduates of the ‘Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra’ (SUN) cohort, initially free of depression. We evaluated coffee consumption using a validated food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Incident depression cases were adjudicated only if the participant met two criteria simultaneously: (a) validated physician-diagnosed depression together with (b) new onset of habitual antidepressant use. Both criteria were needed; participants meeting only one of them were not classified as cases. Participants who drank at least four cups of coffee per day showed a significantly lower risk of depression than participants who drank less than one cup of coffee per day (HR: 0.37 (95% CI 0.15–0.95)). However, overall, we did not observe an inverse linear dose–response association between coffee consumption and the incidence of depression (p for trend = 0.22).