bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collimated superfine x-ray beam based x-ray luminescence computed tomography
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhu Dianwen , Lun Michael , Li Changqing
Published: June 2017

X-ray luminescence computed tomography (XLCT) is a hybrid imaging modality with the potential to achieve a spatial resolution up to several hundred micrometers for targets embedded in turbid media with a depth larger than several millimeters. In this paper, we report a high spatial resolution XLCT imaging system with a collimated superfine x-ray beam in imaging the deeply embedded targets. A collimator with a 100 micrometer pinhole was mounted in the front of a powerful x-ray tube to generate a superfine x-ray pencil beam with a beam diameter of 0.175 mm. For the phantom experiment of four capillary targets with an edge-to-edge distance of 400 micrometers, we were able to reconstruct the targets in a depth of 5 mm successfully, which were validated with microCT images. We have further investigated the effect of different x-ray beam diameters on the reconstructed XLCT images with numerical simulations. Our results indicate that XLCT has the ability to image successfully multiple deeply embedded targets when the collimated x-ray beam diameter is less than or equal to the target edge-to-edge distance. Our numerical simulations also demonstrate that XLCT can achieve a spatial resolution of 200 micrometers for targets embedded at a depth of 5 mm if the scanning beam has a diameter of 100 micrometers.
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome
Authors: Daraz Zahoor Hussain , Mazumder A. B. M. Osman Hayder , Rahman Shahana A.
Published: June 2017

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disease in which symptoms of aging are manifested at an early age. In the present report, we describe a 9 months old female child presented with a history of progressive coarsening of skin, failure to thrive and irregular bumps over thighs, buttocks and lower limbs for the last 7½ months. In the course of time, she developed alopecia, hyperpigmented spots over the abdomen with thickening and a typical facial profile of HGPS including micrognathia, absent ear lobules, prominent eyes, loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and a bluish hue over the nose.
Adolescents Level of Perceived Stress and its Relationship with Body Mass Index in a Bangladeshi Population
Authors: Ahmed Sarker Shamima
Published: June 2017

Background: Several behavioral factors, specially stress, eating behavior, and physical activity have been linked with adolescent obesity. In our country, mental health of adolescents is often neglected. So, we designed this study to describe the current perception of stress in Bangladeshi adolescent students.Objective: Aim of this study was to assess association between stress and body mass index of adolescents while controlling for physical activity and examining stress associated eating behavior.Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 278 adolescent students during the period from January to December 2013. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaire which included physical activity questions, Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ), Adolescent stress questionnaire (ASQ) and standard anthropometric measurements and were analyzed statistically using SPSS version 21.0.Results: In this study majority of the respondents were males. Among the female respondents, about 12.23% were overweight and obese compared to their male peers (4.1%). The normal and high BMI adolescents in the study showed significantly different proportions regarding gender (p<0.001), fathers education (p=0.036) and smoking status (p=0.22). Findings in this study reveals negative correlation between physical activity score and body mass index (?=?0.15, p<0.05). Body mass index was found significantly correlated with all three DEBQ eating subscales the restraint score, emotional eating score (?=0.58 p<0.001), and external eating score (?=0.55, p<0.001). Based on sample data, the mean stress scores were due to home life (3.40±0.54), school performance (3.31±0.63), school attendance (2.42±0.87), romantic relationship (3.02±0.92), peer pressure (2.85±0.72), due to teacher interaction (2.89±0.56), future uncertainty (3.83±0.90), school/leisure conflict (3.55±0.68), financial pressure (2.99±0.79) and emerging adult responsibility (3.11±0.76). Majority of the respondents (86.7%) were highly stressed. The study identified gender (OR,19 with 95% CI; 4.7,90.6), Fathers education (OR,16 with 95% CI; 1.6,16), and stress contributed by school/leisure conflict (OR, 4 with 95% CI; 1.2,13.8) as significant predictors of adolescents BMI when adjusted for other factors.Conclusion: School/leisure conflict related stress was found associated with body mass index when adjusted for other factors. School is reported to be an important source of adolescent stress and should be the focus of stress management campaigns.J Enam Med Col 2017; 7(2): 77-85
Socio Demographic Status of Victims in Vitriolage Cases- A Medico Legal Study
Authors: Rahman Farial Naima , Ahmad Mushtaq , Rahman Md Zubaidur
Published: June 2017

Vitriolage or acid violence is a burning human right violation problem of our country. Over the last few years, acid throwing in Bangladesh was a regular phenomenon where most of the victims were female. This descriptive cross sectional study was carried out from July 2011 to June 2012 among the victims of vitriolage who underwent treatment at One stop Crisis centre (OCC) and burn unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital and also at the rehabilitation and treatment clinics of acid Survivors Foundation (ASF). Among the victims 92% were female and 25% belonged to 21-30 years age group. Most of the victims were from low socio economic background. Failure in marriage (22%), refusal of indecent proposal for sexual relationship (17%), failure in love affairs (13%) were the main causes behind acid violence. Fifty four percent (54%) had injuries in hand, 51 % (51) had injuries in neck and throat, 43 % (43) in back of body and 41 % (41) in face. The victims of vitriolage suffer in the form of physical, social, mental and economical ways. Rehabilitation centre for the victims, prevention of indiscriminate sale of acids, prompt trial of the accused, creation of acid crime tribunal in each district etc can improve the situation.KYAMC Journal Vol. 6, No.-1, Jul 2015, Page 553-556
Modeling of Heat Transfer and Oscillating Flow in the Regenerator of a Pulse Tube Cryocooler Operating at 50 Hz
Authors: Liu Xiufang , Chen Chen , Huang Qian , Wang Shubei , Hou Yu , Chen Liang
Published: June 2017

The regenerator of the pulse tube refrigerator (PTR) operates with oscillating pressure and mass flow, so a proper description of the heat transfer characteristics of the oscillating flow in the regenerator is crucial. In this paper, a one-dimensional model based on Lagrangian representation is developed to simulate the oscillating flow in the regenerator of the PTR. The continuity equation, momentum equation and energy equation are solved iteratively using the SIMPLER algorithm. The Darcy-Brinkman-Forchheimer model is used in the momentum equation, and a thermal non-equilibrium model is implemented in the energy equation. Lagrangian representation is employed to describe the thermodynamics of fluid parcels while the Eulerian representation (control volume method) is adopted for the energy equation of the solid matrix. The boundary conditions are set as the periodic flow of the sine function. The thermodynamic parameters of the gas parcels are obtained, which reveal the critical processes of the heat transfer in the regenerator under oscillating flow. The performance of the regenerator with different geometries is evaluated based on the numerical results. The present study provides insight for better understanding the physical process in the regenerator of the PTR, and the proposed model serves as a useful tool for the design and optimization of the cryogenic regenerator.
Special Issue on Advancing Grid-Connected Renewable Generation Systems
Authors: Blaabjerg Frede , Yang Yongheng
Published: June 2017

Renewables are heavily involved in power generation, as an essential component for today’s energy paradigm. Energy structure—both national and international—has been undergoing significant changes over the past few decades.[...]
Distribution of Dislocations near the Interface in AlN Crystals Grown on Evaporated SiC Substrates
Authors: Argunova Tatiana , Gutkin Mikhail , Je Jung , Kalmykov Alexander , Kazarova Olga , Mokhov Evgeniy , Mikaelyan Kristina , Myasoedov Alexander , Sorokin Lev , Shcherbachev Kirill
Published: June 2017

To exploit unique properties of thin films of group III-nitride semiconductors, the production of native substrates is to be developed. The best choice would be AlN; however, presently available templates on sapphire or SiC substrates are defective. The quality of AlN could be improved by eliminating the substrate during the layer growth. In this paper, we demonstrate freestanding AlN layers fabricated by an SiC substrate evaporation method. Such layers were used to investigate dislocation structures near the former AlN–SiC interface. Specimens were characterized by synchrotron radiation imaging, triple-axis diffractometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that the evaporation process under non-optimal conditions affected the dislocation structure. When the growth had been optimized, AlN layers showed a uniform distribution of dislocations. The dislocations tended to constitute low-angle subgrain boundaries, which produced out-of-plane and in-plane tilt angles of about 2–3 arc-min. Similar broadening was observed in both symmetric and asymmetric rocking curves, which proved the presence of edge, screws as well as mixed dislocation content. TEM revealed arrays of edge threading dislocations, but their predominance over the other threading dislocations was not supported by present study. To explain the experimental observations, a theoretical model of the dislocation structure formation is proposed.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of Salinity Stress-Responsive miRNAs in Wild Emmer Wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides)
Authors: Feng Kewei , Nie Xiaojun , Cui Licao , Deng Pingchuan , Wang Mengxing , Song Weining
Published: June 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous small noncoding RNAs which regulate diverse molecular and biochemical processes at a post-transcriptional level in plants. As the ancestor of domesticated wheat, wild emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides) has great genetic potential for wheat improvement. However, little is known about miRNAs and their functions on salinity stress in wild emmer. To obtain more information on miRNAs in wild emmer, we systematically investigated and characterized the salinity-responsive miRNAs using deep sequencing technology. A total of 88 conserved and 124 novel miRNAs were identified, of which 50 were proven to be salinity-responsive miRNAs, with 32 significantly up-regulated and 18 down-regulated. miR172b and miR1120a, as well as mi393a, were the most significantly differently expressed. Targets of these miRNAs were computationally predicted, then Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis found that the targets of salinity-responsive miRNAs were enriched in transcription factors and stress-related proteins. Finally, we investigated the expression profiles of seven miRNAs ranging between salt-tolerant and sensitive genotypes, and found that they played critical roles in salinity tolerance in wild emmer. Our results systematically identified the salinity-responsive miRNAs in wild emmer, not only enriching the miRNA resource but also laying the foundation for further study on the biological functions and evolution of miRNAs in wild wheat and beyond.
The Use of Chemoprophylaxis after Floods to Reduce the Occurrence and Impact of Leptospirosis Outbreaks
Authors: Schneider Maria , Velasco-Hernandez Jorge , Min Kyung-duk , Leonel Deise , Baca-Carrasco David , Gompper Matthew , Hartskeerl Rudy , Munoz-Zanzi Claudia
Published: June 2017

Record-breaking and devastating rainfall events have occurred in the past decade. Rain and floods are considered the main risk factors for leptospirosis and several outbreaks have been reported following extreme weather events. In such situations, one possible intervention to prevent leptospirosis cases in high-risk groups is the use of chemoprophylaxis. However, not enough evidence of its effect is available. The objectives of this study were to review the literature on the current practices of chemoprophylaxis for leptospirosis and to explore, using a mathematical model, how various chemoprophylaxis scenarios may affect the progression of a leptospirosis outbreak. Twenty-six peer-reviewed publications were selected (10 quantitative studies, two systematic reviews and 14 articles of other types). Oral doxycycline was the most used antibiotic for chemoprophylaxis of leptospirosis. Post-exposure prophylaxis was assessed in four studies following a natural disaster. Although evidence of the effectiveness of post-exposure prophylaxis is inconsistent, the direction of association supported a protective effect for morbidity and mortality. The theoretical model showed how the assumed benefit of chemoprophylaxis was influenced by the time and rate of administration. Future models should consider the heterogeneity of affected communities, improved estimates of the effect of chemoprophylaxis on leptospirosis infection and disease, as well as potential detrimental impacts. Additional research is critical to provide clear evidence-based recommendations for leptospirosis control during an outbreak. The results of this study suggest that chemoprophylaxis may provide some protection in reducing the number of leptospirosis cases after a high-risk exposure; however, the effective benefit may depend on a variety of factors such as the timing and coverage of prophylaxis. The information summarized can be used to support decision-making during a high-risk event.
Work-Related Eye Injuries: A Relevant Health Problem. Main Epidemiological Data from a Highly-Industrialized Area of Northern Italy
Authors: Gobba Fabriziomaria , Dall’Olio Enrico , Modenese Alberto , De Maria Michele , Campi Luca , Cavallini Gian
Published: June 2017

The province of Modena is one of the most industrialized areas of Northern Italy. The medical records of the Ophthalmological Emergency Department (OED) of Modena University Hospital were studied: there were 13,470 OED accesses in 2014 and in 754 cases that an occupational eye injury occurred. The frequency of work-related eye injuries (3‰) was lower compared to other published studies, but the absolute number is still relevant, showing the need for more adequate prevention, especially in metal work, construction work, and agriculture, where the worst prognoses were observed. Intervention programs must be implemented as early as possible in the working life, considering that the frequency in younger workers is about double that of the oldest age class (3.5‰ vs. 1.8‰), and special attention should also be given to foreigners, who have a 50% higher injury risk. Furthermore, the planning of specific interventions for eye-injured workers may be useful, considering that a previous injury does not appear to encourage the adoption of preventive interventions, and a subgroup of eye-injured workers have a potential risk for new injuries. Finally, the data presented here indicates how OED records, integrated with specific occupational information, can be applied for studies on work-related eye injuries.
Getting to Know a Place: Built Environment Walkability and Children’s Spatial Representation of Their Home-School (h–s) Route
Authors: Moran Mika , Eizenberg Efrat , Plaut Pnina
Published: June 2017

The literature on environmental walkability to date has mainly focused on walking and related health outcomes. While previous studies suggest associations between walking and spatial knowledge, the associations between environmental walkability and spatial knowledge is yet to be explored. The current study addresses this lacuna in research by exploring children’s mental representations of their home-school (h–s) route, vis-
Genomic Variations in Pancreatic Cancer and Potential Opportunities for Development of New Approaches for Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Lu Shuangshuang , Ahmed Tasqeen , Du Pan , Wang Yaohe
Published: June 2017

Human pancreatic cancer has a very poor prognosis with an overall five-year survival rate of less than 5% and an average median survival time of six months. This is largely due to metastatic disease, which is already present in the majority of patients when diagnosed. Although our understanding of the molecular events underlying multi-step carcinogenesis in pancreatic cancer has steadily increased, translation into more effective therapeutic approaches has been inefficient in recent decades. Therefore, it is imperative that novel and targeted approaches are designed to facilitate the early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer. Presently, there are numerous ongoing studies investigating the types of genomic variations in pancreatic cancer and their impact on tumor initiation and growth, as well as prognosis. This has led to the development of therapeutics to target these genetic variations for clinical benefit. Thus far, there have been minimal clinical successes directly targeting these genomic alterations; however research is ongoing to ultimately discover an innovative approach to tackle this devastating disease. This review will discuss the genomic variations in pancreatic cancer, and the resulting potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
The Functions of MicroRNA-200 Family in Ovarian Cancer: Beyond Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Choi Pui-Wah , Ng Shu-Wing
Published: June 2017

The majority of studies on microRNA-200 family members (miR-200s) in human cancers are based on the premise that miR-200s maintain epithelial cell integrity by suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through direct inhibition of mesenchymal transcription factors zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1/2 (ZEB1/ZEB2) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a potent inducer of EMT. Hence, downregulation of miR-200 in cancer cells promotes EMT and cancer metastasis. Yet, miR-200s are highly expressed in ovarian cancer, and ovarian cancer metastasizes primarily by dissemination within the pelvic cavity. In this review, we will refocus the epithelial property of ovarian cancer cells and the role of miR-200s in safeguarding this property, as well as the diverse roles of miR-200s in inclusion cyst formation, cancer cell growth, collective movement, angiogenesis, exosome-mediated cell communication, and chemoresponse. Taken together, miR-200s play a significant role in the initiation, progression and metastasis of ovarian cancer and may serve as diagnostic biomarkers and a target in therapeutic development.
Flexible Proteins at the Origin of Life
Authors: Pohorille Andrew , Wilson Michael A. , Shannon Gareth
Published: June 2017

Almost all modern proteins possess well-defined, relatively rigid scaffolds that provide structural preorganization for desired functions. Such scaffolds require the sufficient length of a polypeptide chain and extensive evolutionary optimization. How ancestral proteins attained functionality, even though they were most likely markedly smaller than their contemporary descendants, remains a major, unresolved question in the origin of life. On the basis of evidence from experiments and computer simulations, we argue that at least some of the earliest water-soluble and membrane proteins were markedly more flexible than their modern counterparts. As an example, we consider a small, evolved in vitro ligase, based on a novel architecture that may be the archetype of primordial enzymes. The protein does not contain a hydrophobic core or conventional elements of the secondary structure characteristic of modern water-soluble proteins, but instead is built of a flexible, catalytic loop supported by a small hydrophilic core containing zinc atoms. It appears that disorder in the polypeptide chain imparts robustness to mutations in the protein core. Simple ion channels, likely the earliest membrane protein assemblies, could also be quite flexible, but still retain their functionality, again in contrast to their modern descendants. This is demonstrated in the example of antiamoebin, which can serve as a useful model of small peptides forming ancestral ion channels. Common features of the earliest, functional protein architectures discussed here include not only their flexibility, but also a low level of evolutionary optimization and heterogeneity in amino acid composition and, possibly, the type of peptide bonds in the protein backbone.
Has Inositol Played Any Role in the Origin of Life?
Authors: Saiardi Adolfo
Published: June 2017

Phosphorus, as phosphate, plays a paramount role in biology. Since phosphate transfer reactions are an integral part of contemporary life, phosphate may have been incorporated into the initial molecules at the very beginning. To facilitate the studies into early phosphate utilization, we should look retrospectively to phosphate-rich molecules present in today’s cells. Overlooked by origin of life studies until now, inositol and the inositol phosphates, of which some species possess more phosphate groups that carbon atoms, represent ideal molecules to consider in this context. The current sophisticated association of inositol with phosphate, and the roles that some inositol phosphates play in regulating cellular phosphate homeostasis, intriguingly suggest that inositol might have played some role in the prebiotic process of phosphate exploitation. Inositol can be synthesized abiotically and, unlike glucose or ribose, is chemically stable. This stability makes inositol the ideal candidate for the earliest organophosphate molecules, as primitive inositol phosphates. I also present arguments suggesting roles for some inositol phosphates in early chemical evolution events. Finally, the possible prebiotic synthesis of inositol pyrophosphates could have generated high-energy molecules to be utilized in primitive trans-phosphorylating processes.
Qigong and Fibromyalgia circa 2017
Authors: Sawynok Jana , Lynch Mary
Published: June 2017

Qigong is an internal art practice with a long history in China. It is currently characterized as meditative movement (or as movement-based embodied contemplative practice), but is also considered as complementary and alternative exercise or mind–body therapy. There are now six controlled trials and nine other reports on the effects of qigong in fibromyalgia. Outcomes are related to amount of practice so it is important to consider this factor in overview analyses. If one considers the 4 trials (201 subjects) that involve diligent practice (30–45 min daily, 6–8 weeks), there are consistent benefits in pain, sleep, impact, and physical and mental function following the regimen, with benefits maintained at 4–6 months. Effect sizes are consistently in the large range. There are also reports of even more extensive practice of qigong for 1–3 years, even up to a decade, indicating marked benefits in other health areas beyond core domains for fibromyalgia. While the latter reports involve a limited number of subjects and represent a self-selected population, the marked health benefits that occur are noteworthy. Qigong merits further study as a complementary practice for those with fibromyalgia. Current treatment guidelines do not consider amount of practice, and usually make indeterminate recommendations.
Motor Power Signal Analysis for End-Point Detection of Chemical Mechanical Planarization
Authors: Li Hongkai , Lu Xinchun , Luo Jianbin
Published: June 2017

In the integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing, in-situ end-point detection (EPD) is an important issue in the chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process. In the paper, we chose the motor power signal of the polishing platen as the monitoring object. We then used the moving average method, which was appropriate for in-situ calculation process and made it easy to code for software development, to smooth the signal curve, and then studied the signal variation during the actual CMP process. The results demonstrated that the motor power signal contained the end-point feature of the metal layer removal, and the processed signal curve facilitated the feature extraction and it was relatively steady before and after the layer transition stage. In addition, the motor power signal variation of the polishing head was explored and further analysis of time delay was performed.
Correction: Liu, W. et al. A Highly Sensitive Humidity Sensor Based on Ultrahigh-Frequency Microelectromechanical Resonator Coated with Nano-Assembled Polyelectrolyte Thin Films. Micromachines, 2017, 8, 116
Authors: Liu Wenpeng , Qu Hemi , Hu Jizhou , Pang Wei , Zhang Hao , Duan Xuexin
Published: June 2017

In the published paper [1], there is an error in Figure 3 [...]
Curcumin Inhibits LIN-28A through the Activation of miRNA-98 in the Lung Cancer Cell Line A549
Authors: Liu Wei-Lun , Chang Jia-Ming , Chong Inn-Wen , Hung Yi-Li , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Huang Wen-Tsung , Kuo Hsuan-Fu , Hsieh Chong-Chao , Liu Po-Len
Published: June 2017

Metastasis is common in lung cancer and is associated with poor clinical outcomes and increased mortality. Curcumin is a natural anti-cancer agent that inhibits the metastasis of various cancers by modulating the expression of micro (mi) RNAs such as miR-98, which acts as a tumor suppressor. This study investigated the effect of curcumin on miR-98 expression and in vitro cell line growth and invasiveness in lung cancer. Curcumin treatment enhanced the expression of miR-98 and reduced that of the miR-98 target gene LIN28A as well as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and MMP9 in vitro and in vivo. MiR-98 overexpression suppressed lung cancer cell migration and invasion by inhibiting LIN28A-induced MMP2 and MMP9 expression. Meanwhile, LIN28A level was downregulated by overexpression of miR-98 mimic. Induction of miR-98 by curcumin treatment suppressed MMP2 and MMP9 by targeting LIN28A. These findings provide insight into the mechanisms by which curcumin suppresses lung cancer cell line growth in vitro and in vivo and invasiveness in vitro.
Investigation of the Maillard Reaction between Polysaccharides and Proteins from Longan Pulp and the Improvement in Activities
Authors: Han Miao-Miao , Yi Yang , Wang Hong-Xun , Huang Fei
Published: June 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the Maillard reaction between polysaccharides and proteins from longan pulp and the effects of reaction on their in vitro activities. The polysaccharide-protein mixtures of fresh longan pulp (LPPMs) were co-prepared by an alkali extraction–acid precipitation method. They were then dry-heated under controlled conditions for monitoring the characterization of the Maillard reaction by the measurement of the free amino group content, ultraviolet-visible spectrum, Fourier transform infrared spectrum and molecular weight distribution. All the physicochemical analyses indicated the development of the Maillard reaction between polysaccharides and proteins. The in vitro activity evaluation indicated that the Maillard reaction could effectively enhance the antioxidant, antitumor and immunostimulating activities of LPPMs. The enhancement of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power displayed both a positive correlation with the reaction time (p < 0.05). LPPMs dry-heated for three days obtained relatively strong inhibitory activity against HepG2 cells and SGC7901 cells, as well as strong immunostimulating effects on the nitric oxide production and tumor necrosis factor α secretion of macrophages. Maillard-type intermacromolecular interaction is suggested to be an effective and controllable method for improving the functional activities of polysaccharides and proteins from longan pulp.
Functionalizing Graphene Oxide with Alkylamine by Gamma-ray Irradiation Method
Authors: Ahmad Daud Noraniza , Chieng Buong , Ibrahim Nor , Talib Zainal , Muhamad Ernee , Abidin Zurina
Published: June 2017

A gamma-ray irradiation technique was used to functionalize graphene oxide (GO) with alkylamines of various alkyl chain lengths. Functionalization of the alkyl chains onto the GO was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). FTIR of the functionalized GO showed the appearance of significant peaks around 2960–2850 cm−1 (–CH2) which came from long alkyl chains, together with a peak around 1560–1450 cm−1, indicating the formation of C–NH–C. XRD showed an additional diffraction peak at a lower 2θ angle, indicating that the intercalation of the alkylamine was successful. The effects on the morphological and thermal properties of GO functionalized with alkyl chains of various lengths were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed an increase in surface roughness when the alkyl chain length was increased. The addition of alkyl chains on GO surfaces significantly improved the thermal stability of the GO, suggesting that these surfaces have great potential for use as a hydrophobic material in industry.
(−)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells by Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Chen Yue , Wang Xiao-Qian , Zhang Qi , Zhu Jian-Yun , Li Yuan , Xie Chun-Feng , Li Xiao-Ting , Wu Jie-Shu , Geng Shan-Shan , Zhong Cai-Yun , Han Hong-Yu
Published: June 2017

The beneficial effects of tea consumption on cancer prevention have been generally reported, while (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the major active component from green tea. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role in the process of cancer development. Targeting CSCs may be an effective way for cancer intervention. However, the effects of EGCG on colorectal CSCs and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Spheroid formation assay was used to enrich colorectal CSCs from colorectal cancer cell lines. Immunoblotting analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to measure the alterations of critical molecules expression. Immunofluorescence staining analysis was also used to determine the expression of CD133. We revealed that EGCG inhibited the spheroid formation capability of colorectal cancer cells as well as the expression of colorectal CSC markers, along with suppression of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. Moreover, we illustrated that EGCG downregulated the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, while upregulation of Wnt/β-catenin diminished the inhibitory effects of EGCG on colorectal CSCs. Taken together, this study suggested that EGCG could be an effective natural compound targeting colorectal CSCs through suppression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and thus may be a promising agent for colorectal cancer intervention.
Antioxidant and Antihypertensive Effects of a Chemically Defined Fraction of Syrah Red Wine on Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Figueiredo Eugênia Abrantes de , Alves Naiane Ferraz Bandeira , Monteiro Matheus Morais de Oliveira , Cavalcanti Clenia de Oliveira , Silva Tania Maria Sarmento da , Silva Telma Maria Guedes da , Braga Valdir de Andrade , Oliveira Eduardo de Jesus
Published: June 2017

A particularly phenolic-rich fraction extracted from red wine from the São Francisco valley (Northeastern Brazil) was chemically characterized and its hypotensive and antioxidant effects on spontaneously hypertensive rats were studied both in vitro and in vivo. The liquid-liquid pH dependent fractionation scheme afforded a fraction with high content of bioactive phenolics such as flavonols, flavonol glycosides, phenolic acids and anthocyanins, whose identities were confirmed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry analysis. Pretreatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with this wine fraction at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg by gavage. for 15 days was able to decrease mean arterial pressure and heart rate as well as decrease serum lipid peroxidation. The fraction at concentrations of 0.01–1000 µg/mL induced concentration-dependent relaxation of isolated rat superior mesenteric artery rings pre-contracted with phenylephrine and this effect was not attenuated by endothelium removal. Our results demonstrate it is possible for phenolic constituents of red wine that are orally bioavailable to exert in vivo hypotensive and antioxidant effects on intact endothelial function.
Iron for Africa—Report of an Expert Workshop
Authors: Mwangi Martin , Phiri Kamija , Abkari Abdelhak , Gbané Mory , Bourdet-Sicard Raphaelle , Braesco Véronique , Zimmermann Michael , Prentice Andrew
Published: June 2017

Scientific experts from nine countries gathered to share their views and experience around iron interventions in Africa. Inappropriate eating habits, infections and parasitism are responsible for significant prevalence of iron deficiency, but reliable and country-comparable prevalence estimates are lacking: improvements in biomarkers and cut-offs values adapted to context of use are needed. Benefits of iron interventions on growth and development are indisputable and outweigh risks, which exist in populations with a high infectious burden. Indeed, pathogen growth may increase with enhanced available iron, calling for caution and preventive measures where malaria or other infections are prevalent. Most African countries programmatically fortify flour and supplement pregnant women, while iron deficiency in young children is rather addressed at individual level. Coverage and efficacy could improve through increased access for target populations, raised awareness and lower cost. More bioavailable iron forms, helping to decrease iron dose, or prebiotics, which both may lower risk of infections are attractive opportunities for Africa. Fortifying specific food products could be a relevant route, adapted to local context and needs of population groups while providing education and training. More globally, partnerships involving various stakeholders are encouraged, that could tackle all aspects of the issue.
Role of Bio-Based Polymers on Improving Turbulent Flow Characteristics: Materials and Application
Authors: Han Wen Jiao , Choi Hyoung Jin
Published: June 2017

The remarkable ability of polymeric additives to reduce the level of frictional drag significantly in turbulent flow, even under extremely low dilutions, is known as turbulent drag-reduction behavior. Several bio-polymers have been assessed as promising drag-reducing agents for the potential replacement of high molecular weight synthetic polymers to improve safety and ameliorate environmental concerns. This article reviews the recent advances regarding the impact of several bio-polymer additives on turbulent drag reduction in either pipe or rotating disk flow systems, and their potential applications in the petroleum, biomedical, and agricultural industries.
Mapping Plastic-Mulched Farmland with Multi-Temporal Landsat-8 Data
Authors: Hasituya  , Chen Zhongxin
Published: June 2017

Using plastic mulching for farmland is booming around the world. Despite its benefit of protecting crops from unfavorable conditions and increasing crop yield, the massive use of the plastic-mulching technique causes many environmental problems. Therefore, timely and effective mapping of plastic-mulched farmland (PMF) is of great interest to policy-makers to leverage the trade-off between economic profit and adverse environmental impacts. However, it is still challenging to implement remote-sensing-based PMF mapping due to its changing spectral characteristics with the growing seasons of crops and geographic regions. In this study, we examined the potential of multi-temporal Landsat-8 imagery for mapping PMF. To this end, we gathered the information of spectra, textures, indices, and thermal features into random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM) algorithms in order to select the common characteristics for distinguishing PMF from other land cover types. The experiment was conducted in Jizhou, Hebei Province. The results demonstrated that the spectral features and indices features of NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index), GI (greenness index), and textural features of mean are more important than the other features for mapping PMF in Jizhou. With that, the optimal period for mapping PMF is in April, followed by May. A combination of these two times (April and May) is better than later in the season. The highest overall, producer’s, and user’s accuracies achieved were 97.01%, 92.48%, and 96.40% in Jizhou, respectively.
Depression Risks and Correlates among Different Generations of Chinese Americans: The Effects of Relationships with Friends and Relatives
Authors: Zhu Lin
Published: June 2017

An increasing body of literature has suggested that the public portrayal of Chinese Americans as a high-achieving, well-adjusting “model minority” might not reflect the entire reality of their mental health conditions. This study examined depression risks and correlates among different generations of Chinese Americans, using non-Hispanic whites as a comparison group. A nationally representative sample of Chinese Americans (n = 600) from the Comprehensive Psychiatric Epidemiological Survey was used. Results of the study indicate that Chinese Americans in general have a lower risk of depression than non-Hispanic whites. Moreover, the prevalence and correlates of depression do not show a linear trend of difference from first to second to third-or-higher generation Chinese Americans, and then to non-Hispanic whites; rather, the risk of depression and its association with social relational factors presents in distinctive patterns for first and second generation Chinese Americans, compared to third-or-higher generation Chinese Americans and non-Hispanic whites. Specifically, friend network and relative group play different roles in influencing depression for different generations of Chinese Americans. The findings contributed to the growing body of literature on acculturation and mental health among immigrants, shedding lights on the complicated sociocultural contexts that could influence the mental well-being of individuals. Mental health service providers need to be aware of the complex and nuanced association between social relational factors and depression in their prevention, management, and treatment efforts.
The Economic Benefits of the Dokdo Seals Restoration Project in Korea: A Contingent Valuation Study
Authors: Lim Seul-Ye , Jin Se-Jun , Yoo Seung-Hoon
Published: June 2017

Northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus), especially those that live in Dokdo, Korea, represent an endangered species in Korea. Thus, the government is considering the implementation of the Dokdo Seals (DS) restoration project. This article looks at the economic benefits for implementing the project, which includes making habitats for the DS, such as an artificial sea ranch, and training DS rescued from fishing nets and wounded in the wild to adapt to the wild so that they can be released into the Dokdo Sea. To this end, we looked at the willingness to pay (WTP) for the implementation of the project by conducting a contingent valuation (CV) survey of 1000 Korean households. We employed a one-and-one-half-bounded dichotomous choice question format. Furthermore, we used a spike model to model the WTP responses with zero observations. The mean yearly WTP for the project implementation was computed to be KRW 4923 (USD 4.86) for next ten years per household, which is statistically significant at the 1% level. The national annual value amounts to KRW 90.9 billion (USD 89.8 million). This value can be taken as an indication of the economic benefits of restoring the endangered species.
Variation in referral and access to new psychological therapy services by age: an empirical quantitative study
Authors: Pettit Sophie , Qureshi Adam , Lee William , Stirzaker Alex , Gibson Alex , Henley William , Byng Richard
Published: June 2017

Background

Older people with common mental health problems (CMHPs) are known to have reduced rates of referral to psychological therapy.

Aim

To assess referral rates to the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services, contact with a therapist, and clinical outcome by age.

Design and setting

Empirical research study using patient episodes of care from South West of England IAPT services.

Method

By analysing 82 513 episodes of care (2010–2011), referral rates and clinical improvement were compared with both total population and estimated prevalence in each age group using IAPT data. Probable recovery of those completing treatment was calculated for each group.

Results

Estimated prevalence of CMHPs peaks in 45–49-year-olds (20.59% of population). The proportions of patients identified with CMHPs being referred peaks at 20–24 years (22.95%) and reduces with increase in age thereafter to 6.00% for 70–74-year-olds. Once referred, the proportion of those attending first treatment increases with age between 20 years (57.34%) and 64 years (76.97%). In addition, the percentage of those having a clinical improvement gradually increases from the age of 18 years (12.94%) to 69 years (20.74%).

Conclusion

Younger adults are more readily referred to IAPT services. However, as a proportion of those referred, probabilities of attending once, attending more than once, and clinical improvement increase with age. It is uncertain whether optimum levels of referral have been reached for young adults. It is important to establish whether changes to service configuration, treatment options, and GP behaviour can increase referrals for middle-aged and older adults.
A Systematic Search for Hidden Type 1 AGNs: Gas Kinematics and Scaling Relations
Authors: Eun Da-in , Woo Jong-Hak , Bae Hyun-Jin
Published: June 2017

We search type 1 active galactic nuclei (AGNs) among emission-line galaxies, that are typically classified as type 2 AGNs based on emission line flux ratios if a broad component in the Hα line profile is not properly investigated. Using ∼24,000 type 2 AGNs at z < 0.1, initially selected from Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7 by Bae & Woo, we identify a sample of 611 type 1 AGNs based on the spectral fitting results and visual inspection. These hidden type 1 AGNs have relatively low luminosity with a mean broad Hα luminosity, log

erg s−1 and low Eddington ratio with a mean log L
bol/L
Edd = −2.04 ± 0.34, while they do follow the black hole mass–stellar velocity dispersion relation defined by the inactive galaxies and the reverberation-mapped type 1 AGNs. We investigate ionized gas outflows based on the [

] λ5007 kinematics, which show relatively high velocity dispersion and velocity shift, indicating that the line-of-sight velocity and velocity dispersion of the ionized gas in type 1 AGNs is, on average, larger than that of type 2 AGNs.
VLBI Ecliptic Plane Survey: VEPS-1
Authors: Shu Fengchun , Petrov Leonid , Jiang Wu , Xia Bo , Jiang Tianyu , Cui Yuzhu , Takefuji Kazuhiro , McCallum Jamie , Lovell Jim , Yi Sang-oh , Hao Longfei , Yang Wenjun , Zhang Hua , Chen Zhong , Li Jinling
Published: June 2017

We present here the results of the first part of the VLBI Ecliptic Plane Survey (VEPS) program. The goal of the program is to find all compact sources within

of the ecliptic plane that are suitable as calibrators for anticipated phase referencing observations of spacecraft, and determine their positions with accuracy at the 1.5 nrad level. We run the program in two modes: search and refine. In the search mode, a complete sample of all sources brighter than 50 mJy at 5 GHz listed in the Parkes-MIT-NRAO and Green Bank 6 cm (GB6) catalogs, except those previously detected with VLBI, is observed. In the refining mode, the positions of all ecliptic plane sources, including those found in the search mode, are improved. By 2016 October, thirteen 24 hr sessions that targeted all sources brighter than 100 mJy have been observed and analyzed. Among 3320 observed target sources, 555 objects have been detected. We also conducted a number of follow-up VLBI experiments in the refining mode and improved the positions of 249 ecliptic plane sources.
Le concept de filiation narrative : un quatrième axe de la filiation
Authors: Golse Bernard , Moro Marie Rose
Published: June 2017

À partir de leur expérience dans la clinique de l’adoption internationale, les auteurs proposent de considérer la filiation de tous les enfants, quelle que soit la situation dans laquelle ils naissent et se développent, dans ses axes biologique, psychique, symbolique (ou légal), auxquels ils rajoutent un axe narratif jusque-là non conceptualisé. Ils en proposent une définition psychanalytique et phénoménologique et l’illustrent par des récits tirés de la vie psychique des bébés et des interactions précoces telles qu’elles se déroulent entre les bébés et ceux qui prennent soins d’eux et des fragments de psychothérapies en situation d’adoption internationale.
L’expérience des enfants adoptés tardivement à l’étranger : étude qualitative
Authors: Sarmiento Laura , Skandrani Sara , Benoit Laelia , Harf Aurélie , Moro Marie Rose
Published: June 2017

Ce travail de recherche propose de donner une voix aux enfants adoptés tardive­ment à l’étranger. L’objectif est d’analyser le discours de sept adolescents adoptés entre 5 et 7 ans à l’étranger afin de mieux appréhender ce type d’adoptions. L’analyse qualitative (Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, Smith, 2008) des entretiens réalisés permet de dégager trois thèmes principaux : 1) La participation de l’enfant à son histoire ; 2) la place qu’occupe le pays de naissance ; et 3) des voies multiples pour se construire. Des sous-thèmes portent sur l’importance des souvenirs et des liens rappelant les origines ainsi que leur quête de continuité et la singularité de grandir dans la différence. Une discussion sur les enjeux qui se dégagent quant à leur participation dans l’adoption, la place de la famille adoptive et leur construction identitaire est proposée. L’importance d’un travail de prévention avec les enfants avant qu’ils ne soient adoptés ainsi que d’un travail d’élaboration familiale après l’adoption est rappelée.
Traumatisme et limites. Errances et ressources du corps À l’adolescence
Authors: Calamote Éric
Published: June 2017

À partir de deux exemples cliniques recueillis dans des dispositifs différents (cothérapie et psychothérapie individuelle), l’auteur montre comment la dynamique pubertaire peut permettre de qualifier des expériences traumatiques passées, notamment en ce qui concerne les agressions sexuelles. De la même façon, l’adolescent se saisit aussi parfois de ses expériences traumatiques antérieures pour traiter ses éprouvés actuels débordants. Des voies de partage et de symbolisation simultanées de telles expériences, pubertaires et traumatiques, peuvent donc se dégager dans le transfert. Ces voies de qualification de l’expérience se repèrent dans des manifestations corporelles et spatiales paradoxales témoignant du désastre subi comme des ressources du sujet. L’auteur souligne ainsi la complexité du processus pubertaire, à la fois source et traitement d’expériences traumatiques.