bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Optimization for DNA Nanostructures
Authors: Girard Jacob , Gilbert Andrew , Lewis Daniel , Spuches Mary
Published: April 2019

This paper is concerned with minimizing the cost of self-assembling DNA nanostructures by minimizing the number of different components used in the construction. We first describe the nanostructures, then give a combinatorial formalization of the assembly process and demonstrate that the octet truss provides an accurate geometric framework for current branched junction molecule assembly. We choose the octet truss because it is highly symmetric and has an appropriate number of edges for the application. We develop a method of differentiating among branched junction molecules, the basic building blocks of the nanostructures, within this structure. In the mathematical model, we represent the branched junction molecules graphically with „tiles‟. We use this approach to find the minimum number of tiles necessary to construct Platonic and Archimedean solids naturally occurring within the octet truss. This will be useful and cost efficient for the chemists and biologists who actually build these branched junction molecules because once a branched junction molecule is created, a lab can make many copies of it.
The ERC Mechanism and the Formation of Abnormal Product in the Stevens Rearrangement
Authors: Bhakat Soumendranath
Published: April 2019

To explain the new abnormal product of the Stevens Rearrangement which is not explainable by different existing mechanisms like “radical pair mechanism”; “ionic pair mechanism”, I proposed a new mechanism scheme entitled the ERC (Elimination Recombination Coupling) mechanism and a new abnormal product of the Stevens Rearrangement. This mechanism also maintains parity between the “radical pair mechanism” and the “ionic pair mechanism.
Managing Stress, Distress and Coping Strategies in Dentistry
Authors: Touyz ZG Louis
Published: April 2019

Background: Dysfunctional social behavior deriving from work distress is common among practicing dentists.
1.2 Aim: This paper appraises prevalent stressors for practicing dentists, not only in North America, but also in dental practices in all other continents. This critique aims to describe from a dentists’ viewpoint, what is wrong, why it is wrong and what can be done about it. Deconstruction of stressors: Among the main reasons are misdirected motivations, unfulfilled performances, inadequate coping strategies, unsatisfied needs and frustrations arising from unreasonable expectations. Social changes, financial constructs and professional stressors can all play a part.
Discussion: Abuse by financiers, patients and staff, with inadequate skills, muddled management of resources and jumbled attitudes, may precipitate anything from unexplained mood changes to psychotic episodes. These forces may work to convert stress to distress.
Concluding remarks: Hopefully this exposition provides answers, novel thinking, fresh insights, orderly approaches, practical skills and coping strategies for dentists to improve their role as health care providers in a community.
Principles of Soft Tissue Management in Dental Implants
Authors: Mao Xiao-Quan
Published: April 2019

Objective: To evaluate the impact of soft tissue factors in dental implants.
Data: Studies evaluating the role of soft tissues in dental implants were included in this review.
Sources: A comprehensive literature search of English and Chinese language articles was performed via electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI and VIP) using the appropriate key words(esthetic; evaluation; impact factor; soft tissue). The most recent search took place in January 2016.
Study selection: Potentially appropriate articles were identified and evaluated for eligibility through a predefined review process conducted by two examiners. Only 16 out of the 346 identified records met criteria and were included in the final analysis.
Conclusion: The success of dental implants depends on two outcomes, the functional utility of the implant and its beauty. During the early phase of treatment, the main objective of a dental implant is to achieve adequate function. In clinical practice, however, subsequent soft tissue retraction and implant exposure have a significantly negative impact on implant esthetics, especially in young women’s teeth, which can also be considered as implant failure. It is particularly important to understand how to support the surrounding soft tissue so that it is esthetically pleasing.
No Antibiotics for Tooth Extractions in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Frascino Alexandre
Published: April 2019

Diabetes is a disease associated with increased surgical complications and deficient tissue repair. However, recent publications claim that non-compensated diabetic patients have not increased risk for postoperative complications in simple tooth extractions.
The Impact of Cytochrome P450 2C19 Polymorphism on Cardiovascular Events in Indonesian Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Amir Muzakkir , Mappiare Mirnawati , Indra Paskalis
Published: April 2019

Background: The polymorphism of cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) has been documented as the determinant variability in the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. The relation between CYP2C19 polymorphism and the antiplatelet efficacy of clopidogrel in Indonesian patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is unknown. To address this issue, we examined the distribution of CYP2C19 genotypes and platelet aggregation, and assessed the impact of CYP2C19 polymorphism on response to clopidogrel and cardiovascular events. Methods: This observational analytic study with prospective cohort approach was conducted in Wahidin Sudirohusodo and Hasanuddin University Hospital, Makassar. We measured the CYP2C19 genotype by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment linked polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method and platelet aggregation by optical platelet aggregometry with 10 μmol of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) in 69 patients with stable CAD who were treated with clopidogrel. Platelet hyperaggregation was defined as maximal platelet aggregation > 94.3%. The patients were followed up every month at the outpatient department for 6 months or at end point. The end point was acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or cardiovascular death. Results: Distribution of CYP2C19 alleles were 89.8%, 40.6%, and 11.6%, in CYP2C19*1, CYP2C19*2, and CYP2C19*3, respectively. Distribution of CYP2C19 genotype were 50.7%, 29.0%, 8.7%, 8.7%, and 2.9% in CYP2C19*1/*1, *1/*2, *1/*3, *2/*2, and *2/*3, respectively. Platelet hyper aggregation was more in patients with polymorphism than wild type (p 0.034; OR 3.707) and was associated with cardiovascular events (p 0.030; OR 13.250). There was acute myocardial infarction in 2 patients, ischemic stroke in 1 patient, and cardiovascular death in 1 patient. All of these patients were carrying at least one variant allele of CYP2C19; details of genotype were in two patients with CYP2C19*1/*2, one patient with *2/*2, and one with *2/*3 alleles. Conclusion: CYP2C19*2 and *3 were associated with cardiovascular events due to platelet hyper aggregation.
Genetic Variants as Predictive Markers for Ototoxicity and Nephrotoxicity in Patients with Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Treated with Cisplatin-Containing Chemoradiotherapy (The PRONE Study)
Authors: Driessen Chantal M. , Ham Janneke C. , te Loo Maroeska , van Meerten Esther , van Lamoen Maurits , Hakobjan Marina H. , Takes Robert P. , van der Graaf Winette T. , Kaanders Johannes H. , Coenen Marieke J.H. , van Herpen Carla M.
Published: April 2019

Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity are potentially irreversible side effects of chemoradiotherapy with cisplatin in locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC) patients. Several predictive genetic variants have been described, but as yet none in LAHNC patients. The aim of this study is to investigate genetic variants as predictors for ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity in LAHNC patients treated with cisplatin-containing chemoradiotherapy. Our prospective cohort of 92 patients was genotyped for 10 genetic variants and evaluated for their association with cisplatin-induced ototoxicity (ACYP2, COMT, TPMT and WFS1) and nephrotoxicity (OCT2, MATE and XPD). Ototoxicity was determined by patient-reported complaints as well as tone audiometrical assessments. Nephrotoxicity was defined as a decrease of ≥25% in creatinine clearance during treatment compared to baseline. A significant association was observed between carriership of the A allele for rs1872328 in the ACYP2 gene and cisplatin-induced clinically determined ototoxicity (p = 0.019), and not for ototoxicity measured by tone audiometrical assessments (p = 0.449). Carriership of a T allele for rs316019 in the OCT2 gene was significantly associated with nephrotoxicity at any time during chemoradiotherapy (p = 0.022), but not with nephrotoxicity at the end of the chemoradiotherapy. In conclusion, we showed prospectively that in LAHNC patients genetic variants in ACYP2 are significantly associated with clinically determined ototoxicity. Validation studies are necessary to prove the added value for individualized treatments plans in these patients.
Hydrogen-Assisted Sputtering Growth of TiN on Ceramic Substrates
Authors: Choi Jaewon , Jeon Wonjin , Kang Dongjin , Kang Doowon , Jo Jungyol
Published: April 2019

Titanium nitride (TiN) has mechanical and electrical characteristics applicable for very large scale integration (VLSI) and discrete electronic devices. This study assessed the effect of hydrogen on sputtering growth of TiN on ceramic substrates. Although ceramic substrate is used in discrete device applications due to its insulating property, ceramic is also porous and contains oxygen and water vapor gases, which can be incorporated into TiN films during growth. In addition, discrete devices are usually packaged in glass sealing at 700 °C, and reaction with the trapped gases can significantly degrade the quality of the TiN film. In order to evaluate ways to minimize the effects of these gases on TiN, hydrogen gas was introduced during sputtering growth. The main hypothesis was that the hydrogen gas would react with oxygen to lower the oxygen density in the vacuum chamber, which would suppress the effects of the trapped gases in the ceramic and ultimately improve the quality of the TiN film. Improvements in TiN quality were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and resistance measurements. During the glass-sealing process, N2-purging at 400 °C was effective at keeping the TiN in a low resistance state. These results show that introducing hydrogen gas during sputtering growth could solve the problems caused by ceramic substrates.
Intra-Ring Variations and Interrelationships for Selected Wood Anatomical and Physical Properties of Thuja Occidentalis L.
Authors: Bouslimi Besma , Koubaa Ahmed , Bergeron Yves
Published: April 2019

Intra-ring variation in wood density and tracheid anatomical properties and wood property interrelationships were investigated in Thuja occidentalis L. Samples were taken from three stands in Abitibi–Témiscamingue, Quebec, Canada. The structure of T. occidentalis wood is simple, homogeneous and uniform, which is desirable for wooden structures that require wood uniformity. From early- to latewood, cell and lumen diameter decreased, while cell wall thickness increased. These changes led to an increase of the cell wall proportion. Wood ring density and width interrelationships were weaker in mature wood compared to juvenile wood. Earlywood density is the more important in determining mature wood density than latewood density and proportion. Earlywood density explains 92% and 89% of the variation in juvenile and mature wood density, respectively. The negative relationship between ring density and width, although significant, was low and tends to weaken with increasing tree age, thus providing the opportunity for silvicultural practices to improve both growth and wood density. Ring width was positively and strongly correlated to early- and latewood width, but negatively correlated to tracheid length and latewood proportion. Accordingly, increases in ring width produce smaller tracheids and wider earlywood without a corresponding increase in latewood. Practical implications of the results are discussed.
Importance of the Local Environment on Nutrient Cycling and Litter Decomposition in a Tall Eucalypt Forest
Authors: Buettel Jessie C. , Ringwaldt Elise M. , Hovenden Mark J. , Brook Barry W.
Published: April 2019

The relative abundance of nitrogen-fixing species has been hypothesised to influence tree biomass, decomposition, and nitrogen availability in eucalypt forests. This prediction has been demonstrated in experimental settings (two-species mixtures) but is yet to be observed in the field with more realistically complex communities. We used a combination of (a) field measurements of tree-community composition, (b) sampling of soil from a subset of these sites (i.e., the local environment), and (c) a decomposition experiment of forest litter to examine whether there is a local-scale effect of the nitrogen-fixing Acacia dealbata Link (presence and abundance) on nitrogen availability, and whether increases in this essential nutrient led to greater biomass of the canopy tree species, Eucalyptus obliqua L’Hér. Average A. dealbata tree size was a significant predictor of forest basal area in 24 plots (12% deviance explained) and, when combined with average distance between trees, explained 29.1% variance in E. obliqua biomass. However, static patterns of local nitrogen concentration were unrelated to the presence or size of A. dealbata, despite our experiments showing that A. dealbata leaf litter controls decomposition rates in the soil (due to three times higher N). Such results are important for forest management in the context of understanding the timing and turnover of shorter-lived species like acacias, where higher N (through either litter or soil) might be better detected early in community establishment (when growth is faster and intraspecific competition more intense) but with that early signal subsequently dissipated.
Discrete Element Simulation of Interaction between Hydraulic Fracturing and a Single Natural Fracture
Authors: Basirat Rouhollah , Goshtasbi Kamran , Ahmadi Morteza
Published: April 2019

Hydraulic fracturing (HF) treatment is performed to enhance the productivity in the fractured reservoirs. During this process, the interaction between HF and natural fracture (NF) plays a critical role by making it possible to predict fracture geometry and reservoir production. In this paper, interaction modes between HF and NF are simulated using the discrete element method (DEM) and effective parameters on the interaction mechanisms are investigated. The numerical results also are compared with different analytical methods and experimental results. The results showed that HF generally tends to cross the NF at an angle of more than 45° and a moderate differential stress (greater than 5 MPa), and the opening mode is dominated at an angle of fewer than 45°. Two effects of changing in the interaction mode and NF opening were also found by changing the strength parameters of NF. Interaction mode was changed by increasing the friction coefficient, while by increasing the cohesion of NF it was less opened under a constant injection pressure.
Preservation of Digital Images: Question of Fixity
Authors: Tikhonov Alexey
Published: April 2019

One of the most important aspects of the long-term digital-image preservation strategy is maintaining data fixity, i.e., assuring the integrity and authenticity of original data. This article aims to highlight the limitations of the approaches used to maintain the fixity of digital images in the digital preservation process and to offer perceptual hashing as a way to alleviate some of the limitations of current approaches, as well as discuss some non-technical implications of the described problems. This paper is exploratory, and while it includes a simple experiment description, it only outlines the problem and testing environment for a possible solution that could be elaborated on in further research. The most commonly used fixity maintaining techniques are immutability of data and file checksums/cryptographic hashes. On the other hand, planning for long-term preservation necessitates the need to migrate data into new future formats to maintain availability and sustainability, and the concept of the file itself should not be assumed to remain forever, which calls for other tools to ascertain the fixity of digital images. The problem goes beyond one that is exclusively technical: bitstream content is not ready for human perception, and the digital preservation strategy should include all the necessary technical steps to assure the availability of stored images to human eyes. This shifts the perspective on what should be considered the digital image in digital preservation. It is not the file, but a perceptible object, or, more specifically—instructions to create one. Therefore, it calls for additional tools to maintain fixity, such as perceptual hashing, transformation logging, and others.
Estimation of the Allergenic Potential of Urban Trees and Urban Parks: Towards the Healthy Design of Urban Green Spaces of the Future
Authors: Cariñanos Paloma , Grilo Filipa , Pinho Pedro , Casares-Porcel Manuel , Branquinho Cristina , Acil Nezha , Andreucci Maria Beatrice , Anjos Andreia , Bianco Pietro Massimiliano , Brini Silvia , Calaza-Martínez Pedro , Calvo Enrico , Carrari Elisa , Castro José , Chiesura Anna , Correia Otilia , Gonçalves Artur , Gonçalves Paula , Mexia Teresa , Mirabile Marzia , Paoletti Elena , Santos-Reis Margarida , Semenzato Paolo , Vilhar Ursa
Published: April 2019

The impact of allergens emitted by urban green spaces on health is one of the main disservices of ecosystems. The objective of this work is to establish the potential allergenic value of some tree species in urban environments, so that the allergenicity of green spaces can be estimated through application of the Index of Urban Green Zones Allergenicity (IUGZA). Multiple types of green spaces in Mediterranean cities were selected for the estimation of IUGZ. The results show that some of the ornamental species native to the Mediterranean are among the main causative agents of allergy in the population; in particular, Oleaceae, Cupressaceae, Fagaceae, and Platanus hispanica. Variables of the strongest impact on IUGZA were the bioclimatic characteristics of the territory and design aspects, such as the density of trees and the number of species. We concluded that the methodology to assess the allergenicity associated with urban trees and urban areas presented in this work opens new perspectives in the design and planning of urban green spaces, pointing out the need to consider the potential allergenicity of a species when selecting plant material to be used in cities. Only then can urban green areas be inclusive spaces, in terms of public health.
Maternal Exposure to Indoor Air Pollution and Birth Outcomes
Authors: Franklin Peter , Tan Mark , Hemy Naomi , Hall Graham L.
Published: April 2019

There is a growing body of research on the association between ambient air pollution and adverse birth outcomes. However, people in high income countries spend most of their time indoors. Pregnant women spend much of that time at home. The aim of this study was to investigate if indoor air pollutants were associated with poor birth outcomes. Pregnant women were recruited prior to 18 weeks gestation. They completed a housing questionnaire and household chemical use survey. Indoor pollutants, formaldehyde (HCHO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), were monitored in the women’s homes at 34 weeks gestation. Gestational age (GA), birth weight (BW) and length (BL) and head circumference (HC) were collected from birth records. The associations between measured pollutants, and pollution surrogates, were analysed using general linear models, controlling for maternal age, parity, maternal health, and season of birth. Only HCHO was associated with any of the birth outcomes. There was a 0.044 decrease in BW z-score (p = 0.033) and 0.05 decrease in HC z-score (p = 0.06) for each unit increase in HCHO. Although HCHO concentrations were very low, this finding is consistent with other studies of formaldehyde and poor birth outcomes.
Transcriptional Analysis of Chlorella pyrenoidosa Exposed to Bisphenol A
Authors: Duan Leyi , Chen Qi , Duan Shunshan
Published: April 2019

Bisphenol A (BPA) is the raw material of 71% of polycarbonate-based resins and 27% of epoxy-based resins which are used for coating metal-based food and beverage cans. Meanwhile, it is taken into account as a typical environmental pollutant. Hormesis may occur in algae exposed to BPA. In this study, the effects of BPA on Chlorella pyrenoidosa were assessed based on growth inhibition and transcriptome analysis. We have focused on two exposure scenarios as follows: (1) exposure to a low stimulation concentration (0.1 mg.L−1, 19.35% promotion in cell density on the 3rd day); (2) exposure to a high inhibition concentration (10 mg.L−1, 64.71% inhibition in cell density on the 3rd day). Transcriptome analysis showed enrichment in nucleotide transport, single-organism transport, cellular respiration. Among them, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase and Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) dehydrogenase were upregulated under 0.1 mg.L−1 BPA treatment. These changes enhanced the physiological and energy metabolic pathways of C. pyrenoidosa, thereby stimulating cell proliferation. At exposure to the high BPA, severe inhibited changes in the expression levels of several pathways were observed, which were related to tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and photosynthesis. Therefore, BPA could negatively affect growth inhibition through the multiple energy metabolism processes. These results may result in a deeper insight into BPA-induced biphasic responses in algae, and provide vital information to assess the potential ecological risks of exposure to BPA in an aquatic ecosystem.
Reply to Comments on the Study “The Sensitivity, Specificity and Accuracy of Warning Signs in Predicting Severe Dengue, the Severe Dengue Prevalence and its Associated Factors”
Authors: Ahmad Mohd Hanief , Ibrahim Mohd Ismail , Mohamed Zeehaida , Ismail Nabilah , Abdullah Muhammad Amiruddin , Shueb Rafidah Hanim , Shafei Mohd Nazri
Published: April 2019

Thank you for the comments received on the article “The Sensitivity, Specificity and Accuracy of Warning Signs in Predicting Severe Dengue, the Severe Dengue Prevalence and its Associated Factors” [...]
Temporal and Cartographic Analyses of the Distribution within Spain of Mortality Due to Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (1984–2016)
Authors: Sánchez-Díaz Germán , Escobar Francisco , Villaverde-Hueso Ana , Posada de la Paz Manuel , Alonso-Ferreira Verónica
Published: April 2019

The aim is to conduct a descriptive, population-based study in order to assess temporal and spatial changes in mortality due to granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in Spain from 1984 to 2016. Mortality data were obtained from the Spanish Annual Death Registry. Deaths in which GPA was the underlying cause were selected using the 446.4 and M31.3 codes from the International Classification of Diseases, 9th and 10th revision. Annual average age at death and age-adjusted mortality rates were calculated. Geographic analysis was performed at municipality and district level. Variations in mortality according to the type of municipality (urban, agro-urban or rural), district and geographic location (degrees of latitude) were assessed using standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and smoothed-SMRs. Over the whole period, 620 deaths due to GPA were identified. Age at death increased at an average annual rate of 0.78% over the period 1987–2016 (p < 0.05). Age-adjusted mortality rates increased by an annual average of 20.58% from 1984 to 1992, after which they fell by 1.91% a year (p < 0.05). The agro-urban category had the highest percentage (4.57%) of municipalities with a significantly higher GPA mortality rate than expected. Geographic analysis revealed four districts with a higher risk of death due to GPA, two in the North of Spain and two in the South. This population-based study revealed an increase in the age at death attributed to GPA. Age-adjusted mortality rates went up sharply until 1992, after which they started to decline until the end of the study period. Geographic differences in mortality risk were identified but further studies will be necessary to ascertain the reasons for the distribution of GPA disease.
Relationship between Community or Home Gardening and Health of the Elderly: A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey in Japan
Authors: Machida Daisuke
Published: April 2019

There have been many reports indicating the relationship between gardening and health or healthy lifestyles among adults in developed countries all over the world. However, Japanese evidence is lacking. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between community or home gardening and health status or a healthy lifestyle using a web-based survey with Japanese elderly living in the community. A survey was conducted to gather data from 500 gardeners and 500 nongardeners aged 60 to 69. As a result, significant relationships were shown between community gardening and exercise habits, physical activity, eating vegetables, and connections with neighbors. Moreover, the significant relationships between home gardening and the following items were indicated: Subjective happiness, exercise habits, physical activity, sitting time, eating breakfast, eating vegetables, eating balanced meals, and connections with neighbors. No item demonstrated a significant relationship with gardening frequency. A significant relationship was demonstrated between gardening duration and health problems affecting everyday life. Further significant relationships were shown between gardening with others and subjective happiness, having a reason for living. In conclusion, promising positive relationships between community or home gardening and health or healthy lifestyles were indicated.
Quadratic Frequency Modulation Signals Parameter Estimation Based on Product High Order Ambiguity Function-Modified Integrated Cubic Phase Function
Authors: Zhu Lei
Published: April 2019

In inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging system for targets with complex motion, such as ships fluctuating with oceanic waves and high maneuvering airplanes, the multi-component quadratic frequency modulation (QFM) signals are more suitable model for azimuth echo signals. The quadratic chirp rate (QCR) and chirp rate (CR) cause the ISAR imaging defocus. Thus, it is important to estimate QCR and CR of multi-component QFM signals in ISAR imaging system. The conventional QFM signal parameter estimation algorithms suffer from the cross-term problem. To solve this problem, this paper proposes the product high order ambiguity function-modified integrated cubic phase function (PHAF-MICPF). The PHAF-MICPF employs phase differentiation operation with multi-scale factors and modified coherently integrated cubic phase function (MICPF) to transform the multi-component QFM signals into the time-quadratic chirp rate (T-QCR) domains. The cross-term suppression ability of the PHAF-MICPF is improved by multiplying different T-QCR domains that are related to different scale factors. Besides, the multiplication operation can improve the anti-noise performance and solve the identifiability problem. Compared with high order ambiguity function-integrated cubic phase function (HAF-ICPF), the simulation results verify that the PHAF-MICPF acquires better cross-term suppression ability, better anti-noise performance and solves the identifiability problem.
A Comprehensive Study of the Wave Impact Loads on an Inclined Plate
Authors: Ma Zhe , Zhou Ting , Ren Nianxin , Zhai Gangjun
Published: April 2019

Water wave impact on a wet deck is an important issue in ocean engineering, and the plate-shaped structure in the splash zone tends to suffer tremendous impact loads. This work presents a method for predicting the wave slamming uplift force on a fixed plate with different inclined angles. Both numerical simulation and the scale model test of the wave impact loads on an inclined plate were performed, and a good agreement was obtained. In addition, the influence of three important wave parameters on the slamming uplift force was systematically investigated: relative deck width B/LS, relative wave height Δh/H1/3, and the plate’s inclined angle α. The results indicate that the three parameters can significantly influence the wave slamming uplift force. Finally, a developed empirical equation is proposed for estimating the wave slamming uplift force on the inclined plate.
Prediction of Damage Accumulation Effect of Wood Structural Members under Long-Term Service: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Li Zheng , Tao Duo , Li Mengwei , Shu Zhan , Jing Songshi , He Minjuan , Qi Peng
Published: April 2019

It is well known that wood structural members can stand a relatively heavy load in the short term but will gradually get weaker if the load is applied for a longer period. This phenomenon is caused by the damage accumulation effect in wood and should be appropriately considered during the design of timber structures. Although various formulation methods (also known as classical models) have been proposed to evaluate the damage accumulation effect in wood, the calibration of model parameters is very time-consuming. Our work proposes a novel method to deal with the damage accumulation effect in wood that involves the application of machine learning algorithms. The proposed algorithm considers a multi-objective optimization process with a combination of goodness-of-fit and complexity. Long-term experimental data of typical wood species are used for developing the machine learning based damage accumulation model. Compared with existing pre-formulated models, our model managed to reduce the complexity of the model structure and give sufficiently accurate and unbiased predictions. This study aims to provide a novel tool for evaluating the damage accumulation in wood structural members, and the proposed model can further support the life-cycle performance assessment of timber structures under long-term service scenarios.
Effect of Potassium Ions on the Formation of Mixed-Valence Manganese Oxide/Graphene Nanocomposites
Authors: Jang Wooree , Jeon Dae-Young , Lee Youn-Sik , Koo Hye Young
Published: April 2019

One-pot synthesis of mixed-valence manganese oxide (MnOx)/potassium ion-doped reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composites for efficient electrochemical supercapacitors is introduced. Using manganese nitrate and potassium permanganate as co-precursors for the MnOx and by directly annealing the rGO without tedious purification steps, as described herein, MnOx/rGO composites with a high specific capacitance of 1955.6 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 are achieved. It is found that the presence of potassium ions helps in the development of mixed-valence MnOx on the surface of the rGO.
Vickers Micro-Hardness of New Restorative CAD/CAM Dental Materials: Evaluation and Comparison after Exposure to Acidic Drink
Authors: Colombo Marco , Poggio Claudio , Lasagna Alessandro , Chiesa Marco , Scribante Andrea
Published: April 2019

CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) for indirect restorative materials has been recently introduced in dentistry. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change of the surface micro-hardness of different restorative CAD/CAM materials after exposure to a carbonated acidic drink (Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Company, Milan, Italy). One hundred and eighty specimens of identical size (2 mm thickness) were obtained by sectioning each tested CAD/CAM block of four materials: a hybrid ceramic (CERASMART™, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan), a resin nano ceramic (Lava™ Ultimate, 3M, Monrovia, CA, USA), a nanohybrid composite (Grandio blocs, VOCO GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany), and a zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate glass ceramic (VITA SUPRINITY® PC; VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Sackingen, Germany). Forty-five specimens of each material were tested. Micro-hardness was measured at baseline, after 7 days and after 28 days. The data were analyzed. The micro-hardness of each material varied significantly after immersion in Coca-Cola. The nanohybrid composite had a high initial micro-hardness and the greatest percentage loss after acid exposure. The hybrid ceramic and the resin nano ceramic had similar percentage losses of micro-hardness values even if the second material had higher initial values. The zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate glass ceramic had the highest baseline values and the lowest percentage loss of micro-hardness. The different CAD/CAM materials presented different micro-hardness values before and after acid exposure.
Laccase Immobilized onto Zirconia–Silica Hybrid Doped with Cu2+ as an Effective Biocatalytic System for Decolorization of Dyes
Authors: Jankowska Katarzyna , Ciesielczyk Filip , Bachosz Karolina , Zdarta Jakub , Kaczorek Ewa , Jesionowski Teofil
Published: April 2019

Nowadays, novel and advanced methods are being sought to efficiently remove dyes from wastewaters. These compounds, which mainly originate from the textile industry, may adversely affect the aquatic environment as well as living organisms. Thus, in presented study, the synthesized ZrO2–SiO2 and Cu2+-doped ZrO2–SiO2 oxide materials were used for the first time as supports for laccase immobilization, which was carried out for 1 h, at pH 5 and 25 °C. The materials were thoroughly characterized before and after laccase immobilization with respect to electrokinetic stability, parameters of the porous structure, morphology and type of surface functional groups. Additionally, the immobilization yields were defined, which reached 86% and 94% for ZrO2–SiO2–laccase and ZrO2–SiO2/Cu2+–laccase, respectively. Furthermore, the obtained biocatalytic systems were used for enzymatic decolorization of the Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) dye from model aqueous solutions, under various reaction conditions (time, temperature, pH). The best conditions of the decolorization process (24 h, 30 °C and pH = 4) allowed to achieve the highest decolorization efficiencies of 98% and 90% for ZrO2–SiO2–laccase and ZrO2–SiO2/Cu2+–laccase, respectively. Finally, it was established that the mortality of Artemia salina in solutions after enzymatic decolorization was lower by approx. 20% and 30% for ZrO2–SiO2–laccase and ZrO2–SiO2/Cu2+–laccase, respectively, as compared to the solution before enzymatic treatment, which indicated lower toxicity of the solution. Thus, it should be clearly stated that doping of the oxide support with copper ions positively affects enzyme stability, activity and, in consequence, the removal efficiency of the RBBR dye.
Effects of Different Calcium Silicate Cements on the Inflammatory Response and Odontogenic Differentiation of Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Chung Minsun , Lee Sukjoon , Chen Dongzi , Kim Ukseong , Kim Yaelim , Kim Sunil , Kim Euiseong
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to analyze the effects of different calcium silicate cements (CSCs) on the inflammatory response and odontogenic differentiation of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human dental pulp stem cells. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammation. These LPS-induced dental pulp stem cells (LDPSCs) were cultured with ProRoot MTA, Biodentine, Retro MTA, and Dycal. Cell viability was evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 cytokine levels were assessed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) were analyzed through real-time polymerase chain reaction. ProRoot MTA, Biodentine, and Retro MTA did not significantly decrease the cell viability of LDPSCs for up to 48 h (p < 0.05). Retro MTA significantly decreased the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 by LDPSCs. ProRoot MTA and Biodentine significantly reduced TGF-β expression by LDPSCs (p < 0.05). Regarding odontogenic differentiation, all CSCs had no effect on ALP expression but increased the production of RUNX2 at 12 h.
Phase Change Materials for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and Their Use in Mortars
Authors: Frigione Mariaenrica , Lettieri Mariateresa , Sarcinella Antonella
Published: April 2019

The construction industry is responsible for consuming large amounts of energy. The development of new materials with the purpose of increasing the thermal efficiency of buildings is, therefore, becoming, imperative. Thus, during the last decades, integration of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into buildings has gained interest. Such materials can reduce the temperature variations, leading to an improvement in human comfort and decreasing at the same time the energy consumption of buildings, due to their capability to absorb and release energy from/in the environment. In the present paper, recent experimental studies dealing with mortars or concrete-containing PCMs, used as passive building systems, have been examined. This review is mainly aimed at providing information on the currently investigated materials and the employed methodologies for their manufacture, as well as at summarizing the results achieved so far on this subject.
An Artificial Neural Network Based Solution Scheme for Periodic Computational Homogenization of Electrostatic Problems
Authors: Göküzüm Felix Selim , Nguyen Lu Trong Khiem , Keip Marc-André
Published: April 2019

The present work addresses a solution algorithm for homogenization problems based on an artificial neural network (ANN) discretization. The core idea is the construction of trial functions through ANNs that fulfill a priori the periodic boundary conditions of the microscopic problem. A global potential serves as an objective function, which by construction of the trial function can be optimized without constraints. The aim of the new approach is to reduce the number of unknowns as ANNs are able to fit complicated functions with a relatively small number of internal parameters. We investigate the viability of the scheme on the basis of one-, two- and three-dimensional microstructure problems. Further, global and piecewise-defined approaches for constructing the trial function are discussed and compared to finite element (FE) and fast Fourier transform (FFT) based simulations.
High Efficiency Drug Repurposing Design for New Antifungal Agents
Authors: Kim Jong H. , Chan Kathleen L. , Cheng Luisa W. , Tell Lisa A. , Byrne Barbara A. , Clothier Kristin , Land Kirkwood M.
Published: April 2019

Current antifungal interventions have often limited efficiency in treating fungal pathogens, particularly those resistant to commercial drugs or fungicides. Antifungal drug repurposing is an alternative intervention strategy, whereby new utility of various marketed, non-antifungal drugs could be repositioned as novel antifungal agents. In this study, we investigated “chemosensitization” as a method to improve the efficiency of antifungal drug repurposing, wherein combined application of a second compound (viz., chemosensitizer) with a conventional, non-antifungal drug could greatly enhance the antifungal activity of the co-applied drug. Redox-active natural compounds or structural derivatives, such as thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol), 4-isopropyl-3-methylphenol, or 3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde, could serve as potent chemosensitizers to enhance antifungal activity of the repurposed drug bithionol. Of note, inclusion of fungal mutants, such as antioxidant mutants, could also facilitate drug repurposing efficiency, which is reflected in the enhancement of antifungal efficacy of bithionol. Bithionol overcame antifungal (viz., fludioxonil) tolerance of the antioxidant mutants of the human/animal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Altogether, our strategy can lead to the development of a high efficiency drug repurposing design, which enhances the susceptibility of pathogens to drugs, reduces time and costs for new antifungal development, and abates drug or fungicide resistance.
Effects of Inulin Propionate Ester Incorporated into Palatable Food Products on Appetite and Resting Energy Expenditure: A Randomised Crossover Study
Authors: Byrne Claire S , Chambers Edward S , Preston Tom , Tedford Catriona , Brignardello Jerusa , Garcia-Perez Isabel , Holmes Elaine , Wallis Gareth A , Morrison Douglas J , Frost Gary S
Published: April 2019

Supplementation with inulin-propionate ester (IPE), which delivers propionate to the colon, suppresses ad libitum energy intake and stimulates the release of satiety hormones acutely in humans, and prevents weight gain. In order to determine whether IPE remains effective when incorporated into food products (FP), IPE needs to be added to a widely accepted food system. A bread roll and fruit smoothie were produced. Twenty-one healthy overweight and obese humans participated. Participants attended an acclimatisation visit and a control visit where they consumed un-supplemented food products (FP). Participants then consumed supplemented-FP, containing 10 g/d inulin or IPE for six days followed by a post-supplementation visit in a randomised crossover design. On study visits, supplemented-FP were consumed for the seventh time and ad libitum energy intake was assessed 420 min later. Blood samples were collected to assess hormones and metabolites. Resting energy expenditure (REE) was measured using indirect calorimetry. Taste and appearance ratings were similar between FP. Ad libitum energy intake was significantly different between treatments, due to a decreased intake following IPE-FP. These observations were not related to changes in blood hormones and metabolites. There was an increase in REE following IPE-FP. However, this effect was lost after correcting for changes in fat free mass. Our results suggest that IPE suppresses appetite and may alter REE following its incorporation into palatable food products.
Aerobic Exercise Training with Brisk Walking Increases Intestinal Bacteroides in Healthy Elderly Women
Authors: Morita Emiko , Yokoyama Hisayo , Imai Daiki , Takeda Ryosuke , Ota Akemi , Kawai Eriko , Hisada Takayoshi , Emoto Masanori , Suzuki Yuta , Okazaki Kazunobu
Published: April 2019

This study examined the effect of an exercise intervention on the composition of the intestinal microbiota in healthy elderly women. Thirty-two sedentary women that were aged 65 years and older participated in a 12-week, non-randomized comparative trial. The subjects were allocated to two groups receiving different exercise interventions, trunk muscle training (TM), or aerobic exercise training (AE). AE included brisk walking, i.e., at an intensity of ≥ 3 metabolic equivalents (METs). The composition of the intestinal microbiota in fecal samples was determined before and after the training period. We also assessed the daily physical activity using an accelerometer, trunk muscle strength by the modified Kraus–Weber (K-W) test, and cardiorespiratory fitness by a 6-min. walk test (6MWT). K-W test scores and distance achieved during the 6MWT (6MWD) improved in both groups. The relative abundance of intestinal Bacteroides only significantly increased in the AE group, particularly in subjects showing increases in the time spent in brisk walking. Overall, the increases in intestinal Bacteroides following the exercise intervention were associated with increases in 6MWD. In conclusion, aerobic exercise training that targets an increase of the time spent in brisk walking may increase intestinal Bacteroides in association with improved cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy elderly women.
Lactate Stimulates a Potential for Hypertrophy and Regeneration of Mouse Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Ohno Yoshitaka , Ando Koki , Ito Takafumi , Suda Yohei , Matsui Yuki , Oyama Akiko , Kaneko Hikari , Yokoyama Shingo , Egawa Tatsuro , Goto Katsumasa
Published: April 2019

The effects of lactate on muscle mass and regeneration were investigated using mouse skeletal muscle tissue and cultured C2C12 cells. Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into (1) control, (2) lactate (1 mol/L in distilled water, 8.9 mL/g body weight)-administered, (3) cardio toxin (CTX)-injected (CX), and (4) lactate-administered after CTX-injection (LX) groups. CTX was injected into right tibialis anterior (TA) muscle before the oral administration of sodium lactate (five days/week for two weeks) to the mice. Oral lactate administration increased the muscle weight and fiber cross-sectional area, and the population of Pax7-positive nuclei in mouse TA skeletal muscle. Oral administration of lactate also facilitated the recovery process of CTX-associated injured mouse TA muscle mass accompanied with a transient increase in the population of Pax7-positive nuclei. Mouse myoblast-derived C2C12 cells were differentiated for five days to form myotubes with or without lactate administration. C2C12 myotube formation with an increase in protein content, fiber diameter, length, and myo-nuclei was stimulated by lactate. These observations suggest that lactate may be a potential molecule to stimulate muscle hypertrophy and regeneration of mouse skeletal muscle via the activation of muscle satellite cells.
Development and Characterization of Liposomal Formulations Containing Phytosterols Extracted from Canola Oil Deodorizer Distillate along with Tocopherols as Food Additives
Authors: Poudel Asmita , Gachumi George , Wasan Kishor M. , Dallal Bashi Zafer , El-Aneed Anas , Badea Ildiko
Published: April 2019

Phytosterols are plant sterols recommended as adjuvant therapy for hypercholesterolemia and tocopherols are well-established anti-oxidants. However, thermo-sensitivity, lipophilicity and formulation-dependent efficacy bring challenges in the development of functional foods, enriched with phytosterols and tocopherols. To address this, we developed liposomes containing brassicasterol, campesterol and β-sitosterol obtained from canola oil deodorizer distillate, along with alpha, gamma and delta tocopherol. Three approaches; thin film hydration-homogenization, thin film hydration-ultrasonication and Mozafari method were used for formulation. Validated liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was utilized to determine the entrapment efficiency of bioactives. Stability studies of liposomal formulations were conducted before and after pasteurization using high temperature short time (HTST) technique for a month. Vesicle size after homogenization and ultrasonication (<200 nm) was significantly lower than by Mozafari method (>200 nm). However, zeta potential (−9 to −14 mV) was comparable which was adequate for colloidal stability. Entrapment efficiencies were greater than 89% for all the phytosterols and tocopherols formulated by all three methods. Liposomes with optimum particle size and zeta potential were incorporated in model orange juice, showing adequate stability after pasteurization (72 °C for 15 s) for a month. Liposomes containing phytosterols obtained from canola waste along with tocopherols were developed and successfully applied as a food additive using model orange juice.