bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Burnout and Body Mass Index in Senior and Middle Managers from the Mexican Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Armenta-Hernández Oziely , Maldonado-Macías Aidé , García-Alcaraz Jorge , Avelar-Sosa Liliana , Realyvasquez-Vargas Arturo , Serrano-Rosa Miguel
Published: March 2018

This research relates Burnout Syndrome (BS) with the Body Mass Index (BMI) among middle and senior managers of the Mexican manufacturing industry. Even though BS incidence is high in the Mexican industrial population, few systematic studies have explored BS and its relationship with other health problems, such as obesity. The goal of this research is to determine the relationship between BS and the BMI in employees with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. We present three structural equation models to relate BS and the BMI. The BMI ranges were determined according to the parameters (normal weight, overweight, and obesity) proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The sample includes 361 employees that voluntarily answered a 31-item questionnaire. We measure the levels of BS using the Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey (MBI-GS) and analyze anthropometric and sociodemographic data from the participants. Then, we determine the relationships between the variables through structural equation models and estimate the direct, indirect, and total effects in the three models, which show acceptable reliability. As main findings, the normal weight model has a larger explanatory power than the overweight and obesity models. The same research hypotheses were tested and the effects of BS on the BMI differ across the three models. Such results are presented by taking into account that obesity and overweight require additional factors, such as genetic factors and personal eating habits, to be better explained.
Sustainable Transportation and Health
Authors: Mundorf Norbert , Redding Colleen , Bao Songtao
Published: March 2018

We are experiencing a shift in thinking about Transportation and Mobility, which makes this Special Issue on Sustainable Transportation and Health in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health especially timely.[...]
A Meta-Regression Analysis of the Effectiveness of Mosquito Nets for Malaria Control: The Value of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets
Authors: Yang Gi-geun , Kim Dohyeong , Pham Anh , Paul Christopher
Published: March 2018

Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) have been widely used as an effective alternative to conventional insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) for over a decade. Due to the growing number of field trials and interventions reporting the effectiveness of LLINs in controlling malaria, there is a need to systematically review the literature on LLINs and ITNs to examine the relative effectiveness and characteristics of both insecticide nettings. A systematic review of over 2000 scholarly articles published since the year 2000 was conducted. The odds ratios (ORs) of insecticidal net effectiveness in reducing malaria were recorded. The final dataset included 26 articles for meta-regression analysis, with a sample size of 154 subgroup observations. While there is substantial heterogeneity in study characteristics and effect size, we found that the overall OR for reducing malaria by LLIN use was 0.44 (95% CI = 0.41–0.48, p < 0.01) indicating a risk reduction of 56%, while ITNs were slightly less effective with an OR of 0.59 (95% CI = 0.57–0.61, p <0.01). A meta-regression model confirms that LLINs are significantly more effective than ITNs in the prevention of malaria, when controlling for other covariates. For both types of nets, protective efficacy was greater in high transmission areas when nets were used for an extended period. However, cross-sectional studies may overestimate the effect of the nets. The results surprisingly suggest that nets are less effective in protecting children under the age of five, which may be due to differences in child behavior or inadequate coverage. Compared to a previous meta-analysis, insecticide-treated nets appear to have improved their efficacy despite the risks of insecticide resistance. These findings have practical implications for policymakers seeking effective malaria control strategies.
An Assessment of Dietary Exposure to Cadmium in Residents of Guangzhou, China
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Liu Yungang , Liu Yufei , Liang Boheng , Zhou Hongwei , Li Yingyue , Zhang Yuhua , Huang Jie , Yu Chao , Chen Kuncai
Published: March 2018

Cadmium and its compounds are human carcinogens with severe organ toxicity, and their contamination of agricultural soil in China has been frequently reported; however, the dietary exposure to cadmium in residents and the relevant health risk have seldom been reported. In this study, the concentration of cadmium in various types of food collected from 2013 to 2015 were analyzed using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, and the dietary exposure to cadmium assessed based on a dietary survey in 2976 Guangzhou residents. In total, 3074 out of 4039 food samples had cadmium levels above the limit of detection. The mean ± standard deviation (50th, 95th percentile) cadmium content in all samples was 159.0 ± 112.7 (8.6, 392.4) μg/kg, with levels ranging from 1.0 to 7830 μg/kg. Using the mean cadmium concentrations, the average monthly dietary exposure of Guangzhou residents to cadmium was 14.4 (μg/kg body weight (BW), accounting for 57.6% of the provisional tolerable monthly intake (PTMI). Rice, laver, vegetables, and live aquatic products were the main sources of cadmium intake, on average accounting for 89% of the total value. The dietary cadmium exposure in high consumers (95th percentile food consumption) was 41.0 μg/kg·BW/month, accounting for 163% of the PTMI. Additionally, dietary cadmium exposure at mean consumption but high cadmium food concentration (95th percentile) was 32.3 μg/kg·BW/month, corresponding to 129% of the PTMI. The level of dietary exposure to cadmium in most Guangzhou residents was within the safety limit, thus increased health risk from dietary cadmium exposure is low at present. However, continued efforts by local governments to monitor the levels of cadmium in the four main food categories contributing to exposure are necessary.
Efficient Method for POI/ROI Discovery Using Flickr Geotagged Photos
Authors: Kuo Chiao-Ling , Chan Ta-Chien , Fan I-Chun , Zipf Alexander
Published: March 2018

In the era of big data, ubiquitous Flickr geotagged photos have opened a considerable opportunity for discovering valuable geographic information. Point of interest (POI) and region of interest (ROI) are significant reference data that are widely used in geospatial applications. This study aims to develop an efficient method for POI/ROI discovery from Flickr. Attractive footprints in photos with a local maximum that is beneficial for distinguishing clusters are first exploited. Pattern discovery is combined with a novel algorithm, the spatial overlap (SO) algorithm, and the naming and merging method is conducted for attractive footprint clustering. POI and ROI, which are derived from the peak value and range of clusters, indicate the most popular location and range for appreciating attractions. The discovered ROIs have a particular spatial overlap available which means the satisfied region of ROIs can be shared for appreciating attractions. The developed method is demonstrated in two study areas in Taiwan: Tainan and Taipei, which are the oldest and densest cities, respectively. Results show that the discovered POI/ROIs nearly match the official data in Tainan, whereas more commercial POI/ROIs are discovered in Taipei by the algorithm than official data. Meanwhile, our method can address the clustering issue in a dense area.
DNA Supercoiling, Topoisomerases, and Cohesin: Partners in Regulating Chromatin Architecture?
Authors: Björkegren Camilla , Baranello Laura
Published: March 2018

Although our knowledge of chromatin organization has advanced significantly in recent years, much about the relationships between different features of genome architecture is still unknown. Folding of mammalian genomes into spatial domains is thought to depend on architectural proteins, other DNA-binding proteins, and different forms of RNA. In addition, emerging evidence points towards the possibility that the three-dimensional organisation of the genome is controlled by DNA topology. In this scenario, cohesin, CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF), transcription, DNA supercoiling, and topoisomerases are integrated to dictate different layers of genome organization, and the contribution of all four to gene control is an important direction of future studies. In this perspective, we review recent studies that give new insight on how DNA supercoiling shape chromatin structure.
Therapeutic and Preventive Effects of Osteoclastogenesis Inhibitory Factor on Osteolysis, Proliferation of Mammary Tumor Cell and Induction of Cancer Stem Cells in the Bone Microenvironment
Authors: Futakuchi Mitsuru , Nitanda Takao , Ando Saeko , Matsumoto Harutoshi , Yoshimoto Eri , Fukamachi Katsumi , Suzui Masumi
Published: March 2018

Background: We examined the effects of recombinant human osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor (hOCIF) on osteolysis, proliferation of mammary tumor cells, and induction of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the tumor-bone and tumor-subcutaneous microenvironments (TB- and TS-microE). Methods: Mouse mammary tumor cells were transplanted onto the calvaria or into a subcutaneous lesion of female mice, creating a TB-microE and a TS-microE, and the mice were then treated with hOCIF. To investigate the preventive effects of hOCIF, mice were treated with hOCIF before tumor cell implantation onto the calvaria (Pre), after (Post), and both before and after (Whole). The number of CSCs and cytokine levels were evaluated by IHC and ELISA assay, respectively. Results: hOCIF suppressed osteolysis, and growth of mammary tumors in the TB-microE, but not in the TS-microE. In the Pre, Post, and Whole groups, hOCIF suppressed osteolysis, and cell proliferation. hOCIF increased mouse osteoprotegrin (mOPG) levels in vivo, which suppressed mammary tumor cell proliferation in vitro. These preventive effects were observed in the dose-dependent. hOCIF did not affect the induction of CSCs in either microenvironment. Conclusion: While receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) targeting therapy may not affect the induction of CSCs, RANKL is a potential target for prevention as well as treatment of breast cancer bone metastasis.
Homocysteine Increases Tau Phosphorylation, Truncation and Oligomerization
Authors: Shirafuji Norimichi , Hamano Tadanori , Yen Shu-Hui , Kanaan Nicholas M. , Yoshida Hirotaka , Hayashi Kouji , Ikawa Masamichi , Yamamura Osamu , Kuriyama Masaru , Nakamoto Yasunari
Published: March 2018

Increased plasma homocysteinemia is considered a risk factor of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia. However, the reason elevated plasma homocysteinemia increases the risk of dementia remains unknown. A pathological hallmark of AD is neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) that consist of pathologically phosphorylated tau proteins. The effect of homocysteine (Hcy) on tau aggregation was explored using human neuroblastoma M1C cells that constitutively express human wild-type tau (4R0N) under the control of a tetracycline off system, primary mouse cultured neurons, and by inducing hyperhomocysteinemia in a mouse model of tauopathy (HHCy mice). A wide range of Hcy concentrations (10–1000 µM) increased total tau and phosphorylated tau protein levels. Hcy activated glycogen synthase kinase 3, and cyclin dependent kinase 5, major tau phosphokinases, and inactivated protein phosphatase 2A, a main tau phosphatase. Hcy exhibited cytotoxic effects associated with enhanced activation of caspase. Truncation of tau in the C-terminus, the cleavage site of caspase 3 (i.e., D421, detected by the TauC3 antibody) was also increased. Total tau, phosphorylated tau, as well as C-terminal cleaved tau were increased in the sarkosyl insoluble tau fraction. Hcy also increased the level of tau oligomers, as indicated by the tau oligomer complex 1 (TOC1) antibody that specifically identifies oligomeric tau species, in the tris insoluble, sarkosyl soluble fraction. The levels of TOC1-positive oligomeric tau were increased in brain lysates from HHCy mice, and treating HHCy mice with S-adenosylmethionine, an intermediate of Hcy, reduced the levels of oligomeric tau to control levels. These observations suggest that Hcy increases the levels of phosphorylated tau as well as truncated tau species via caspase 3 activation, and enhanced tau oligomerization and aggregation.
Treatment with Growth Hormone for Adults with Growth Hormone Deficiency Syndrome: Benefits and Risks
Authors: Díez Juan J. , Sangiao-Alvarellos Susana , Cordido Fernando
Published: March 2018

Pharmacological treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in adults began in clinical practice more than 20 years ago. Since then, a great volume of experience has been accumulated on its effects on the symptoms and biochemical alterations that characterize this hormonal deficiency. The effects on body composition, muscle mass and strength, exercise capacity, glucose and lipid profile, bone metabolism, and quality of life have been fully demonstrated. The advance of knowledge has also taken place in the biological and molecular aspects of the action of this hormone in patients who have completed longitudinal growth. In recent years, several epidemiological studies have reported interesting information about the long-term effects of GH replacement therapy in regard to the possible induction of neoplasms and the potential development of diabetes. In addition, GH hormone receptor polymorphism could potentially influence GH therapy. Long-acting GH are under development to create a more convenient GH dosing profile, while retaining the excellent safety, efficacy, and tolerability of daily GH. In this article we compile the most recent data of GH replacement therapy in adults, as well as the molecular aspects that may condition a different sensitivity to this treatment.
Study of Imidazolium Salt Derivatives as PIK3CA Inhibitors Using a Comprehensive in Silico Method
Authors: Wang Ming-yang , Liang Jing-wei , Li Xin-yang , Olounfeh Kamara , Li Shi-long , Wang Shan , Wang Lin , Meng Fan-hao
Published: March 2018

A series of imidazolium salt derivatives have demonstrated potent antitumor activity in prior research. A comprehensive in silicon method was carried out to identify the putative protein target and detailed structure-activity relationship of the compounds. The Topomer CoMFA and CoMSIA techniques were implemented during the investigation to obtain the relationship between the properties of the substituent group and the contour map of around 77 compounds; the Topomer CoMFA and CoMSIA models were reliable with the statistical data. The protein–protein interaction network was constructed by combining the Pharmmapper platform and STRING database. After generating the sub-network, the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA with protein data bank ID: 3ZIM) was selected as the putative target of imidazolium salt derivatives. A docking study was carried out to correlate interactions of amino acids in protein active pockets surrounded by the ligand with contour maps generated by the structure-activity relationship method. Then the molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that the imidazolium salt derivatives have potent binding capacity and stability to receptor 3ZIM, and the two ligand-receptor complex was stable in the last 2 ns. Finally, the ligand-based structure-activity relationship and receptor-based docking were combined together to identify the structural requirement of the imidazolium salt derivatives, which will be used to design and synthesize the novel PIK3CA inhibitors.
Evaluation of Promoter Methylation of RASSF1A and ATM in Peripheral Blood of Breast Cancer Patients and Healthy Control Individuals
Authors: Cao Xue , Tang Qiuqiong , Holland-Letz Tim , Gündert Melanie , Cuk Katarina , Schott Sarah , Heil Jörg , Golatta Michael , Sohn Christof , Schneeweiss Andreas , Burwinkel Barbara
Published: March 2018

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women and has high mortality rates. Early detection is supposed to be critical for the patient’s prognosis. In recent years, several studies have investigated global DNA methylation profiles and gene-specific DNA methylation in blood-based DNA to develop putative screening markers for cancer. However, most of the studies have not yet been validated. In our study, we analyzed the promoter methylation of RASSF1A and ATM in peripheral blood DNA of 229 sporadic patients and 151 healthy controls by the MassARRAY EpiTYPER assay. There were no significant differences in DNA methylation levels of RASSF1A and ATM between the sporadic BC cases and the healthy controls. Furthermore, we performed the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip (450K) array analysis using 48 sporadic BC cases and 48 healthy controls (cases and controls are the same from those of the MassARRAY EpiTYPER assay) and made a comparison with the published data. No significant differences were presented in DNA methylation levels of RASSF1A and ATM between the sporadic BC cases and the healthy controls. So far, the evidence for powerful blood-based methylation markers is still limited and the identified markers need to be further validated.
CRISPR/Cas9 Technology as an Emerging Tool for Targeting Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Authors: Kruminis-Kaszkiel Ewa , Juranek Judyta , Maksymowicz Wojciech , Wojtkiewicz Joanna
Published: March 2018

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein-9 nuclease (Cas9) is a genome editing tool that has recently caught enormous attention due to its novelty, feasibility, and affordability. This system naturally functions as a defense mechanism in bacteria and has been repurposed as an RNA-guided DNA editing tool. Unlike zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), CRISPR/Cas9 takes advantage of an RNA-guided DNA endonuclease enzyme, Cas9, which is able to generate double-strand breaks (DSBs) at specific genomic locations. It triggers cellular endogenous DNA repair pathways, contributing to the generation of desired modifications in the genome. The ability of the system to precisely disrupt DNA sequences has opened up new avenues in our understanding of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathogenesis and the development of new therapeutic approaches. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of the principles and limitations of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, as well as strategies to improve these limitations. Furthermore, we summarize novel approaches of engaging the CRISPR/Cas9 system in establishing an adequate model of neurodegenerative disease and in the treatment of SOD1-linked forms of ALS. We also highlight possible applications of this system in the therapy of ALS, both the inherited type as well as ALS of sporadic origin.
Genetic and Epigenetic Regulation in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Del Campo José , Gallego-Durán Rocío , Gallego Paloma , Grande Lourdes
Published: March 2018

Genetics and epigenetics play a key role in the development of several diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Family studies demonstrate that first degree relatives of patients with NAFLD are at a much higher risk of the disease than the general population. The development of the Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) technology has allowed the identification of numerous genetic polymorphisms involved in the evolution of diseases (e.g., PNPLA3, MBOAT7). On the other hand, epigenetic changes interact with inherited risk factors to determine an individual’s susceptibility to NAFLD. Modifications of the histones amino-terminal ends are key factors in the maintenance of chromatin structure and gene expression (cAMP-responsive element binding protein H (CREBH) or SIRT1). Activation of SIRT1 showed potential against the physiological mechanisms related to NAFLD. Abnormal DNA methylation represents a starting point for cancer development in NAFLD patients. Besides, the evaluation of circulating miRNA profiles represents a promising approach to assess and non-invasively monitor liver disease severity. To date, there is no approved pharmacologic therapy for NAFLD and the current treatment remains weight loss with lifestyle modification and exercise. In this review, the status of research into relevant genetic and epigenetic modifiers of NAFLD progression will be discussed.
Bioactive Glasses: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?
Authors: Baino Francesco , Hamzehlou Sepideh , Kargozar Saeid
Published: March 2018

Bioactive glasses caused a revolution in healthcare and paved the way for modern biomaterial-driven regenerative medicine. The first 45S5 glass composition, invented by Larry Hench fifty years ago, was able to bond to living bone and to stimulate osteogenesis through the release of biologically-active ions. 45S5-based glass products have been successfully implanted in millions of patients worldwide, mainly to repair bone and dental defects and, over the years, many other bioactive glass compositions have been proposed for innovative biomedical applications, such as soft tissue repair and drug delivery. The full potential of bioactive glasses seems still yet to be fulfilled, and many of today’s achievements were unthinkable when research began. As a result, the research involving bioactive glasses is highly stimulating and requires a cross-disciplinary collaboration among glass chemists, bioengineers, and clinicians. The present article provides a picture of the current clinical applications of bioactive glasses, and depicts six relevant challenges deserving to be tackled in the near future. We hope that this work can be useful to both early-stage researchers, who are moving with their first steps in the world of bioactive glasses, and experienced scientists, to stimulate discussion about future research and discover new applications for glass in medicine.
Correlations between Thermal Loads during Grind-Hardening and Material Modifications Using the Concept of Process Signatures
Authors: Kolkwitz Benjamin , Kohls Ewald , Heinzel Carsten , Brinksmeier Ekkard
Published: March 2018

During the process of grind-hardening, the dissipated heat from the process is utilized for a surface layer hardening of machined components made of steel. A martensitic phase transformation occurs within the affected subsurface regions and compressive residual stresses are induced. However, the layout of a grind-hardening process for given hardness results (material modification) is very difficult. Thus, a series of extensive experimental tests is required. To reduce this experimental effort, the newly developed concept of Process Signatures is used to describe the material modifications based on the thermal load appearing during the grind-hardening process. Based on an analytical calculation of the temperature fields during the grind-hardening process (surface- and external-cylindrical-grind-hardening), the internal thermal load was characterized by the maximum contact zone temperature and the maximum temperature gradient at the surface and was correlated with the process quantities (heat flux to the workpiece and the contact time). Metallographic investigations were used to analyze the surface hardening depth and the hardness change at the surface, which were correlated with the quantities describing the internal material loads. The results show that the surface hardening depth was mainly governed by the maximum contact zone temperature and the maximum temperature gradient at the surface, whereas the hardness change at the surface was influenced additionally by the quenching time.
Prediction of the Open-Water Performance of Ducted Propellers with a Panel Method
Authors: Baltazar João , Rijpkema Douwe , Falcão de Campos José , Bosschers Johan
Published: March 2018

In the present work, a comparison between the results obtained by a panel code with a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) code is made to obtain a better insight on the viscous effects of the ducted propeller and on the limitations of the inviscid flow model, especially near bollard pull conditions or low advance ratios, which are important in the design stage. The analysis is carried out for propeller Ka4-70 operating inside duct 19A. From the comparison, several modelling aspects are studied for improvement of the inviscid (potential) flow solution. Finally, the experimental open-water data is compared with the panel method and RANS solutions. A strong influence of the blade wake pitch, especially near the blade tip, on the ducted propeller force predictions is seen. A reduction of the pitch of the gap strip is proposed for improvement of the performance prediction at low advance ratios.
Quantifying the Spatiotemporal Pattern of Urban Expansion and Hazard and Risk Area Identification in the Kaski District of Nepal
Authors: Rimal Bhagawat , Zhang Lifu , Keshtkar Hamidreza , Sun Xuejian , Rijal Sushila
Published: March 2018

The present study utilized time-series Landsat images to explore the spatiotemporal dynamics of urbanization and land use/land-cover (LULC) change in the Kaski District of Nepal from 1988 to 2016. For the specific overtime analysis of change, the LULC transition was clustered into six time periods: 1988–1996, 1996–2000, 2000–2004, 2004–2008, 2008–2013, and 2013–2016. The classification was carried out using a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm and 11 LULC categories were identified. The classified images were further used to predict LULC change scenarios for 2025 and 2035 using the hybrid cellular automata Markov chain (CA-Markov) model. Major hazard risk areas were identified using available databases, satellite images, literature surveys, and field observations. Extensive field visits were carried out for ground truth data acquisition to verify the LULC maps and identify multihazard risk areas. The overall classification accuracy of the LULC map for each year was observed to be from 85% to 93%. We explored the remarkable increase in urban/built-up areas from 24.06 km2 in 1988 to 60.74 km2 by 2016. A majority of urban/built-up areas were sourced from cultivated land. For the six time periods, totals of 91.04%, 78.68%, 75.90%, 90.44%, 92.35%, and 99.46% of the newly expanded urban land were sourced from cultivated land. Various settlements within and away from the city of Pokhara and cultivated land at the river banks were found at risk. A fragile geological setting, unstable slopes, high precipitation, dense settlement, rampant urbanization, and discrete LULC change are primarily accountable for the increased susceptibility to hazards. The predicted results showed that the urban area is likely to continue to grow by 2025 and 2035. Despite the significant transformation of LULC and the prevalence of multiple hazards, no previous studies have undertaken a long-term time-series and simulation of the LULC scenario. Updated district-level databases of urbanization and hazards related to the Kaski District were lacking. Hence, the research results will assist future researchers and planners in developing sustainable expansion policies that may ensure disaster-resilient sustainable urban development of the study area.
System Properties Determine Food Security and Biodiversity Outcomes at Landscape Scale: A Case Study from West Flores, Indonesia
Authors: French Collier Neil , Sayer Jeffrey , Boedhihartono Agni , Hanspach Jan , Abson Dave , Fischer Joern
Published: March 2018

The food-biodiversity nexus is a concept that defines and characterizes the complex interactions between agricultural systems and biodiversity conservation. Here we use a social-ecological systems approach that combines fuzzy cognitive mapping and graph theoretic analyses to uncover system properties that determine food security and biodiversity outcomes at a landscape scale. We studied a rice-based agricultural landscape system situated in Mbeliling district of West Flores, Indonesia. A graphical representation of the Mbeliling district food-biodiversity nexus was created by local experts. The representation revealed system properties that help reconcile the trade-offs between food security and biodiversity conservation. The graph represented a diverse set of food security and biodiversity nodes, and showed that there is not a simple dichotomy between ‘production and protection’. The analysis captured greater complexity than popular academic concepts such as land sparing–land sharing or sustainable intensification. Three major themes emerged from the graph. We found distinct clusters of factors influencing biodiversity and food security. We named these sources of influence (1) Modernisation and sustainable farming; (2) Knowledge and management; and (3) Governance and processes. Component 2 was the most representative of emergent system properties that contribute positively to managing a sustainable food-biodiversity nexus in the Mbeliling landscape. The key determinants of outcomes were: improving agronomic practices, diversifying production, maintaining forest cover and connectivity, and using knowledge and natural resource management processes to mitigate the main drivers of change. Our approach highlights the complexities in the food-biodiversity nexus, and could have wide application in other locations.
Expanding the Rights of Student Religious Groups on College and University Campuses: The Implications of Trinity Lutheran Church v. Comer
Authors: Thro William , Russo Charles
Published: March 2018

In Trinity Lutheran Church v. Comer, the U.S. Supreme Court established a new constitutional rule. While the exact breadth of the rule remains in doubt, the new jurisprudential principle appears to be as follows—except where such actions would violate the Establishment Clause, the Free Exercise Clause prohibits constitutional actors from conferring or denying benefits solely because of individuals’ or entities’ religious exercises. As discussed in this article, this rule has immediate, long-term ramifications for constitutional jurisprudence, particularly as applied to religious freedom. In light of the potential changes it may engender, the purpose of this three-part article is to provide an overview of Trinity Lutheran and its expansion of rights for student religious groups on the campuses of public college and universities.
Laser-Aided Directed Energy Deposition of Steel Powder over Flat Surfaces and Edges
Authors: Caiazzo Fabrizia , Alfieri Vittorio
Published: March 2018

In the framework of Additive Manufacturing of metals, Directed Energy Deposition of steel powder over flat surfaces and edges has been investigated in this paper. The aims are the repair and overhaul of actual, worn-out, high price sensitive metal components. A full-factorial experimental plan has been arranged, the results have been discussed in terms of geometry, microhardness and thermal affection as functions of the main governing parameters, laser power, scanning speed and mass flow rate; dilution and catching efficiency have been evaluated as well to compare quality and effectiveness of the process under conditions of both flat and edge depositions. Convincing results are presented to give grounds for shifting the process to actual applications: namely, no cracks or pores have been found in random cross-sections of the samples in the processing window. Interestingly an effect of the scanning conditions has been proven on the resulting hardness in the fusion zone; therefore, the mechanical characteristics are expected to depend on the processing parameters.
Poly(vinylidene Fluoride-Hexafluoropropylene) Porous Membrane with Controllable Structure and Applications in Efficient Oil/Water Separation
Authors: Wang Xinya , Xiao Changfa , Liu Hailiang , Huang Qinglin , Hao Junqiang , Fu Hao
Published: March 2018

Poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) porous membranes are fabricated via thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) with mixed diluent (dibutyl phthalate (DBP)/dioctyl phthalate (DOP)). The effects of mixed diluent are discussed in detail in term of morphology, mean pore size, selective wettability, etc. The results show that the membrane structure changes from spherulitic to bicontinuous with the change of DBP/DOP ratio. It is also found that the degree of crystallization decreases with the decrease of DBP/DOP ratio in mixed diluent. When liquid–liquid (L-L) phase separation precedes solid–liquid (S-L) phase separation, the obtained membranes have outstanding hydrophobicity and lipophilicity, excellent mechanical property. Additionally, the PVDF-HFP hybrid membranes are prepared with silica (SiO2) particles and the effect of SiO2 content on structure and properties is discussed. It is found that the PVDF-HFP hybrid membrane with 2 wt % SiO2 (M3-S2) has better properties and higher filtration rate and separation efficiency for surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil emulsion separation. Moreover, the membrane M3-S2 also exhibits excellent antifouling performance for long-running.
Laser Direct Metal Deposition of 2024 Al Alloy: Trace Geometry Prediction via Machine Learning
Authors: Caiazzo Fabrizia , Caggiano Alessandra
Published: March 2018

Laser direct metal deposition is an advanced additive manufacturing technology suitably applicable in maintenance, repair, and overhaul of high-cost products, allowing for minimal distortion of the workpiece, reduced heat affected zones, and superior surface quality. Special interest is growing for the repair and coating of 2024 aluminum alloy parts, extensively utilized for a wide range of applications in the automotive, military, and aerospace sectors due to its excellent plasticity, corrosion resistance, electric conductivity, and strength-to-weight ratio. A critical issue in the laser direct metal deposition process is related to the geometrical parameters of the cross-section of the deposited metal trace that should be controlled to meet the part specifications. In this research, a machine learning approach based on artificial neural networks is developed to find the correlation between the laser metal deposition process parameters and the output geometrical parameters of the deposited metal trace produced by laser direct metal deposition on 5-mm-thick 2024 aluminum alloy plates. The results show that the neural network-based machine learning paradigm is able to accurately estimate the appropriate process parameters required to obtain a specified geometry for the deposited metal trace.
Facile Fabrication of Cu2O Nanobelts in Ethanol on Nanoporous Cu and Their Photodegradation of Methyl Orange
Authors: Dan Zhenhua , Yang Yulin , Qin Fengxiang , Wang Hao , Chang Hui
Published: March 2018

Thin cupric oxide (Cu2O) nanobelts with width of few tens of nanometers to few hundreds of nanometers were fabricated in anhydrous ethanol on nanoporous copper templates that was prepared via dealloying amorphous Ti40Cu60 ribbons in hydrofluoric acid solutions at 348 K. The Cu2O octahedral particles preferentially form in the water, and nanobelts readily undergo the growth along the lengthwise and widthwise in the anhydrous ethanol. The ethanol molecules serve as stabilizing or capping reagents, and play a key role of the formation of two-dimensional Cu2O nanobelts. Cu atoms at weak sites (i.e., twin boundary) on the nanoporous Cu ligaments are ionized to form Cu2+ cations, and then react with OH− to form Cu2O and H2O. The two-dimensional growth of Cu2O nanostructure is preferred in anhydrous ethanol due to the suppression of random growth of Cu2O nanoarchitectures by ethanol. Cu2O nanobelts have superior photodegradation performance of methyl orange, three times higher than nanoporous Cu.
Bismuth Oxysulfide and Its Polymer Nanocomposites for Efficient Purification
Authors: Luo Yidong , Qiao Lina , Wang Huanchun , Lan Shun , Shen Yang , Lin Yuanhua , Nan Cewen
Published: March 2018

The danger of toxic organic pollutants in both aquatic and air environments calls for high-efficiency purification material. Herein, layered bismuth copper oxychalcogenides, BiCuSO, nanosheets of high photocatalytic activity were introduced to the PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride). The fibrous membranes provide an easy, efficient, and recyclable way to purify organic pollutant. The physical and photophysical properties of the BiCuSO and its polymer composite were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electron spin resonance (EPR). Photocatalysis of Congo Red reveals that the BiCuSO/PVDF shows a superior photocatalytic activity of a 55% degradation rate in 70 min at visible light. The high photocatalytic activity is attributed to the exposed active {101} facets and the triple vacant associates V B i ‴ V O • • V B i ‴ . By engineering the intrinsic defects on the surface of bismuth oxysulfide, high solar-driven photocatalytic activity can be approached. The successful fabrication of the bismuth oxysulfide and its polymer nanocomposites provides an easy and general approach for high-performance purification materials for various applications.
3D Printability of Alginate-Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogel
Authors: Habib Ahasan , Sathish Venkatachalem , Mallik Sanku , Khoda Bashir
Published: March 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) bio-printing is a revolutionary technology to reproduce a 3D functional living tissue scaffold in-vitro through controlled layer-by-layer deposition of biomaterials along with high precision positioning of cells. Due to its bio-compatibility, natural hydrogels are commonly considered as the scaffold material. However, the mechanical integrity of a hydrogel material, especially in 3D scaffold architecture, is an issue. In this research, a novel hybrid hydrogel, that is, sodium alginate with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is developed and systematic quantitative characterization tests are conducted to validate its printability, shape fidelity and cell viability. The outcome of the rheological and mechanical test, filament collapse and fusion test demonstrate the favorable shape fidelity. Three-dimensional scaffold structures are fabricated with the pancreatic cancer cell, BxPC3 and the 86% cell viability is recorded after 23 days. This hybrid hydrogel can be a potential biomaterial in 3D bioprinting process and the outlined characterization techniques open an avenue directing reproducible printability and shape fidelity.
Explicit Solutions for the (2 + 1)-Dimensional Jaulent–Miodek Equation Using the Integrating Factors Method in an Unbounded Domain
Authors: Sadat Rahma , Kassem Magda
Published: March 2018

In this work, we prove that the integrating factors can be used as a reduction method. Analytical solutions of the Jaulent–Miodek (JM) equation are obtained using integrating factors as an extension of a recent work where, through hidden symmetries, the JM was reduced to ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Some of these ODEs had no quadrature. We here derive several new solutions for these non-solvable ODEs.
Effect of Trace Be and Sc Additions on the Mechanical Properties of A357 Alloys
Authors: Tzeng Yu-Chih , Nieh Jo-Kuang , Bor Hui-Yun , Lee Sheng-Long
Published: March 2018

The effect of the addition of Be and Sc on the microstructure and mechanical properties of A357 alloy were systematically investigated. The results show that the addition of small amounts of Be and Sc could change the acicular structure of iron-bearing intermetallic compounds to harmless compact Al-Fe-Si and Sc-Fe iron-bearing intermetallic compounds. Compact iron-bearing intermetallic compounds could improve fluidity, causing a reduction in interdendritic shrinkage during solidification. The addition of 0.05 wt % Be enhanced the quality index of the A357 alloy by 11% and increased the notch-yield ratio of fracture toughness by 4.5%. In contrast, the addition of 0.05 wt % Sc increased the quality index and the notch to yield ratio of fracture toughness up to 17% and 9%, respectively. Therefore, the microstructure and mechanical properties of the A357 alloy could be improved by substituting Be with Sc.
Experimental Study of CO2-Water-Mineral Interactions and Their Influence on the Permeability of Coking Coal and Implications for CO2-ECBM
Authors: Guo Hui , Ni Xiaoming , Wang Yanbin , Du Xiaomin , Yu Tengteng , Feng Ruimin
Published: March 2018

Coal permeability is one of the most critical parameters affecting gas flow behavior during coalbed methane (CBM) production. However, little research has been conducted on how permeability evolves after CO2 injection in coking coal. Hence, examining possible chemical interactions between coal minerals, water, and injected CO2 can be very helpful to better characterize coking coal. In this study, coking coal specimens obtained from the Malan and Tunlan mines located in the Gujiao block of the Qinshui basin were treated with water and CO2 to achieve a better understanding of their dissolution kinetics, pore structure, and permeability. It was found that the relative carbonate mineral content decreases with time, while the relative clay mineral content increases after the reaction with CO2 and water. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed these mineral alteration phenomena. Carbonate minerals (calcite, dolomite) dissolve faster than clay minerals (montmorillonite, illite and kaolinite). In particular, the dissolution rates of Ca2+ in carbonate minerals increases with decreasing temperature (25–45 °C) and pH (4.3–6.3), and the dissolution rate of Ca2+ ions in the calcite reaction solution is higher than that in the dolomite solution. In addition, the results of low-pressure nitrogen adsorption analysis showed that CO2 injection can enlarge smaller size pores into larger size pores and change the overall pore size distribution. Therefore, CO2 injection can increase the porosity of coal beds and ultimately their permeability, which in turn facilitates CBM production.
Melatonin Balance the Autophagy and Apoptosis by Regulating UCP2 in the LPS-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pan Pan , Zhang Hongmin , Su Longxiang , Wang Xiaoting , Liu Dawei
Published: March 2018

To explore the mechanism of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) mediating the protective of melatonin when septic cardiomyopathy. UCP2 knocked out mice and cardiomyocytes were used to study the effect of melatonin in response to LPS. Indicators of myocardial and mitochondria injury including mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial permeability transition pore, calcium loading, ROS, and ATP detection were assessed. In addition cell viability and apoptosis as well as autophagy-associated proteins were evaluated. Melatonin was able to protect heart function from LPS, which weakened in the UCP2-knockout mice. Consistently, genipin, a pharmacologic inhibitor of UCP2, augmented LPS-induced damage of AC16 cells. In contrast, melatonin upregulated UCP2 expression and protected the cells from the changes in morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential loss, mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore, and subsequent increased ROS generation as well as ATP reduction. Mitophagy proteins (Beclin-1 and LC-3β) were increased while apoptosis-associated proteins (cytochrome C and caspase-3) were decreased when UCP2 was up-regulated. In conclusion, UCP2 may play a protecting role against LPS by regulating the balance between autophagy and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, and by which mechanisms, it may contribute to homeostasis of cardiac function and cardiomyocytes activity. Melatonin may protect cardiomyocytes through modulating UCP2.
Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationships of LP1 Derivatives: N-Methyl-N-phenylethylamino Analogues as Novel MOR Agonists
Authors: Turnaturi Rita , Parenti Carmela , Prezzavento Orazio , Marrazzo Agostino , Pallaki Paschalina , Georgoussi Zafiroula , Amata Emanuele , Pasquinucci Lorella
Published: March 2018

The opioid pharmacological profile of cis-(−)-N-normetazocine derivatives is deeply affected by the nature of their N-substituents. Here, our efforts were focused on the synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of novel derivatives of the lead LP1, a multitarget opioid analgesic compound featuring an N-phenylpropanamido substituent. LP1 derivatives 5a–d and 6a–d were characterized by flexible groups at the N-substituent that allow them to reposition themselves relative to cis-(−)-N-normetazocine nucleus, thus producing different pharmacological profiles at the mu, delta and kappa opioid receptors (MOR, DOR and KOR) in in vitro and in vivo assays. Among the series, compound 5c, with the best in vitro and in vivo profile, resulted a MOR agonist which displays a KiMOR of 6.1 nM in a competitive binding assay, and an IC50 value of 11.5 nM and an Imax of 72% in measurement of cAMP accumulation in HEK293 cells stably expressing MOR, with a slight lower efficacy than LP1. Moreover, in a mouse model of acute thermal nociception, compound 5c, intraperitoneally administered, exhibits naloxone-reversed antinociceptive properties with an ED50 of 4.33 mg/kg. These results expand our understanding of the importance of N-substituent structural variations in the opioid receptor profile of cis-(−)-N-normetazocine derivatives and identify a new MOR agonist useful for the development of novel opioid analgesics for pain treatment.
Transdermal and Topical Drug Administration in the Treatment of Pain
Authors: Leppert Wojciech , Malec–Milewska Malgorzata , Zajaczkowska Renata , Wordliczek Jerzy
Published: March 2018

The comprehensive treatment of pain is multidimodal, with pharmacotherapy playing a key role. An effective therapy for pain depends on the intensity and type of pain, the patients’ age, comorbidities, and appropriate choice of analgesic, its dose and route of administration. This review is aimed at presenting current knowledge on analgesics administered by transdermal and topical routes for physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other health care professionals dealing with patients suffering from pain. Analgesics administered transdermally or topically act through different mechanisms. Opioids administered transdermally are absorbed into vessels located in subcutaneous tissue and, subsequently, are conveyed in the blood to opioid receptors localized in the central and peripheral nervous system. Non–steroidal anti–inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) applied topically render analgesia mainly through a high concentration in the structures of the joint and a provision of local anti–inflammatory effects. Topically administered drugs such as lidocaine and capsaicin in patches, capsaicin in cream, EMLA cream, and creams containing antidepressants (i.e., doxepin, amitriptyline) act mainly locally in tissues through receptors and/or ion channels. Transdermal and topical routes offer some advantages over systemic analgesic administration. Analgesics administered topically have a much better profile for adverse effects as they relieve local pain with minimal systemic effects. The transdermal route apart from the above-mentioned advantages and provision of long period of analgesia may be more convenient, especially for patients who are unable to take drugs orally. Topically and transdermally administered opioids are characterised by a lower risk of addiction compared to oral and parenteral routes.
Hyperjaponol H, A New Bioactive Filicinic Acid-Based Meroterpenoid from Hypericum japonicum Thunb. ex Murray
Authors: Wu Rongrong , Le Zijun , Wang Zhenzhen , Tian Shuying , Xue Yongbo , Chen Yong , Hu Linzhen , Zhang Yonghui
Published: March 2018

Hyperjaponol H (1), a new filicinic acid-based meroterpenoid, with a 6/6/10 ring system trans-fused by hetero-Diels–Alder cycloaddition between a germacrane sesquiterpenoid and a filicinic acid moiety, was isolated from aerial parts of Hypericum japonicum. The elucidation of its structure and absolute configuration were accomplished by the analyses of extensive spectroscopic data and the comparison of Cotton effects of electron circular dichroism (ECD) with previously reported ones. The bioactivity assay showed that hyperjaponol H exhibited a moderate inhibitory efficacy on lytic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA replication in B95-8 cells.