bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Heat Transfer in Porous Metals for Cooling Applications
Authors: Gauna Edgar Avalos , Zhao Yuyuan
Published: May 2017

Porous metals have low densities and novel physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, and acoustic properties. Hence, they have attracted a large amount of interest over the last few decades. One of their applications is for thermal management in the electronics industry because of their fluid permeability and thermal conductivity. The heat transfer capability is achieved by the interaction between the internal channels within the porous metal and the coolant flowing through them. This paper studies the fluid flow and heat transfer in open-cell porous metals manufactured by space holder methods by numerical simulation using software ANSYS Fluent. A 3D geometric model of the porous structure was created based on the face-centered-cubic arrangement of spheres linked by cylinders. This model allows for different combinations of pore parameters including a wide range of porosity (50 to 80 pct), pore size (400 to 1000 µm), and metal particle size (10 to 75 µm). In this study, water was used as the coolant and copper was selected as the metal matrix. The flow rate was varied in the Darcian and Forchheimer’s regimes. The permeability, form drag coefficient, and heat transfer coefficient were calculated under a range of conditions. The numerical results showed that permeability increased whereas the form drag coefficient decreased with porosity. Both permeability and form drag coefficient increased with pore size. Increasing flow rate and decreasing porosity led to better heat transfer performance.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel Amido‐Amine Cationic Gemini Surfactants Containing Flexible and Rigid Spacers
Authors: Hussain S. M. Shakil , Kamal Muhammad Shahzad , El Ali Bassam , Sultan Abdullah S.
Published: May 2017

New amido‐amine‐based cationic gemini surfactants with flexible and rigid spacers and different hydrophobic tails were synthesized and characterized. These gemini surfactants were prepared by a modified procedure through amidation of long chain carboxylic acids using 3‐(dimethylamino)‐1‐propylamine followed by treatment with halohydrocarbons. The effect of the trans and cis conformation of the spacer double bond was investigated by means of critical micelle concentration, surface tension reduction, and thermal stability. The short‐term thermal stability of the gemini surfactants was assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the long‐term thermal stability was examined by a unique approach based on structure characterization techniques including NMR (1H and 13C) and FTIR analysis. TGA results demonstrated excellent short‐term thermal stability since no structure degradation was observed up to 200 °C. Structural characterization revealed impressive long‐term thermal stability of the gemini surfactants with no structure decomposition after exposing them to 90 °C for 10 days. The critical micelle concentration of gemini surfactants was found to be in the range of 0.77 × 10−4–3.61 × 10−4 mol L−1 and corresponding surface tension (γCMC) ranged from 30.34 to 38.12 mN m−1. The surfactant with the trans conformation of spacer double bond showed better surface properties compared to the surfactant with the cis conformation of spacer double bond. Similarly, increasing surfactant tail length and spacer length resulted in decreasing CMC values. Moreover, bromide counterion showed improved surface properties compared to chloride counterion.
Inhibition of Angiotensin II‐Induced Cardiac Fibrosis by Atorvastatin in Adiponectin Knockout Mice
Authors: Choi Sun Young , Park Jong Sung , Roh Mee Sook , Kim Chong‐Rak , Kim Moo Hyun , Serebruany Victor
Published: May 2017

Adiponectin is a polypeptide known to inhibit cardiac fibrosis via the activation of ‎adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). Statins can also activate AMPK, resulting in the secretion of adiponectin. We determined whether atorvastatin inhibits angiotensin II‐induced cardiac fibrosis (AICF) in the presence or absence of adiponectin. Adiponectin knockout (APN‐KO,n= 44) and wild type (WT,n= 44) mice were received subcutaneous angiotensin II (1.5 mg/kg/day), and atorvastatin (10 mg/kg/day) was administered orally for 15 days. The mRNA expression levels of collagen type I and III, as well as AMPK phosphorylation levels in cardiac tissue were then measured. In the APN‐KO mice, collagen type I (p< 0.001) and type III (p= 0.001) expression was significantly greater when treated with angiotensin II, while their expression was significantly reduced in the presence of angiotensin II and atorvastatin. Relative AMPK phosphorylation levels in APN‐KO mice were also significantly higher in the angiotensin II + atorvastatin group when compared with angiotensin II group alone. We conclude that atorvastatin attenuates AICF independently from adiponectin by activating AMPK. These data suggest potential cardioprotection beyond lipid modulation potentially supporting statin pleiotropic hypothesis.
Gas Hydrates: A Possible Future Energy Resource
Authors: Sain Kalachand
Published: May 2017

Energy is one of the main drivers for the sustainable development of any country like India. More than 80% of global energy requirements including India are met by fossil fuels. However, India produces only 30% of her energy requirements indigenously, and spends a huge amount of money in importing the remaining. Moreover, discovery of major oil/gas fields has remained almost stagnant during the last few decades. The rising demand for carbon emission-free energy and dwindling trend of conventional fossil fuels necessitates looking for an alternate source of energy. Gas hydrates, crystalline form of methane (99.9%) and water, are envisaged to provide one of the best feasible solutions for the future generations because of their huge potential and natural occurrences. The successful production tests in Mckenzie delta of Canada in 2008, in Alaska of USA in 2012, and in Nankai Trough off Japan in 2013 have provided an impetus to the scientific and technological community for the delineation & assessment of gas hydrates, followed by development of production technology.
Microflora from Sauropod Coprolites and Associated Sediments of Late Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) Lameta Formation of Nand-Dongargaon Basin, Maharashtra
Authors: Sonkusare Hemant , Samant Bandana , Mohabey D. M.
Published: May 2017

Micofloral study of Lameta sediments and associated sauropod coprolites in the Nand-Dongargaon basin in Maharashtra was conducted to understand the diet and habitat of sauropods. The study revealed the presence of pollen, spores, algal and fungal remains, well-preserved cuticles of Poaceae, and testate amoebae. Vegetation during Lameta included tall arboreal taxa, such as conifers (Podocarpus and Araucaria), Cycads (Cycas), Euphorian and Barringtonia and herbs and shrubs, such as Cheirolepidiaceae (Classopollis), Arecaceae (Palmaepollenites), Poaceae (Graminidites), Asteraceae (Compositoipollenites), Caryophyllaceae (Cretacaeiporites and Periporopollenites), and Acanthaceae (Multiareolites). Data suggest that the sauropods ate soft tissues of angiosperms and gymnosperms. The intake of testate amoeba, algal remains, sponge spicules, and diatoms might be through water intake.
Soil Void Ratio Correlation with Shear Wave Velocities and SPT N Values for Indo-Gangetic Basin
Authors: Anbazhagan P. , Uday Anjali , Moustafa Sayed S. R. , Al-Arifi Nassir S. N.
Published: May 2017

In this study attempt has been made to understand in-situ void ratio in Indo-Gangetic basin (IGB) and to form empirical relations between void ratio and shear wave velocity (Vs), N values considering subsoil investigation data. Multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW) test and standard penetration test was carried out along with soil property measured at 25 locations. The general soil profile varied from silty sand to clay of low compressibility, ground water level fluctuated between 1-27 m, depth of borehole varied from 20-40 m. Regression analysis was conducted on 202 data sets of void ratio and shear wave velocity, 293 data sets of void ratio and SPT-N value, which resulted in inverse correlations between void ratio and Vs, SPT N value. The datas were segregated into fine, coarse grained data based on engineering classification and relations were developed separately. Until now, no studies have related in-situ void ratio to Vs and SPT N. These correlations will be useful to predict void ratio for sites having measured values of Vs and N value. These void ratios can be further used to assess liquefaction susceptibility.
Deciphering Heavy Metal Contamination Zones in Parts of Nalgonda District, Telangana
Authors: Purushotham Dasu , Dharavath Linga , Mishra Sibasish , Kavitha Sunkari , Vinod G. Naga
Published: May 2017

The study area is very important in terms of anthropogenic activity like rapid industrial, urban development, pesticides, pharmacy, granite polishing and agro based industries. Soils represent an excellent media to monitor heavy metal pollution. The results of soil samples analyzed in the present work using XRF reveal anomalous heavy metal and major oxide concentrations. The geogenic and anthropogenic activities for a long period in the study area are responsible for the anomalous heavy metal pollutants. Hence, this work is of immense societal benefit in terms of prevailing human health hazards in the study area with a direct relevance to such industrially populated regions elsewhere. Soil samples collected from study area were analyzed for heavy metals (As, Ba, Cr, Cu, Ni, Co, Mo, Pb, Rb, Sr, V, Y, Zn and Zr and major oxides (SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, MnO, MgO, CaO, Na2O, K2O, TiO2, and P2O5) using Philips PW 2440 X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF). The minimum 0.08 for molybdenum and maximum 21.99 enrichment factor for arsenic is observed. The minimum -2.5 and maximum 17.97 geoaccumulation index values is observed for barium and molybdenum. The minimum 0.07 and maximum 4.3 contamination factors is observed for molybdenum and lead. High contamination degree 19.21 for SMP-1 and least 7.8 for SMP-12 is observed. The minimum 0.41 and maximum 0.95 pollution load index is observed for SMP-12 and SMP-20. Factor analysis results shows that, three factors emerged as significant contributors to the soil quality is about seventy six percent for heavy metals and sixty eight percent for major oxides. The spatial variation maps deciphering heavy metal concentration of both natural and anthropogenic origin by three zones i.e. low, moderate and high of the study area based on environment using Arc-GIS.
Geochemical Characterization of Source Rock from the North Bank Area, Upper Assam Basin
Authors: Devi Archana , Boruah Shivananda , Gilfellon G. B.
Published: May 2017

The study area is confined to a part of upper Assam basin, north of river Brahmaputra (north bank). Seven exploratory wells have been drilled in this part of the basin in order to probe the hydrocarbon prospects of the area. The exploratory efforts did not indicate significant hydrocarbon prospects in the north bank. Since the presence of source rock is an important component of the petroleum system, a detailed systematic study of source rock potential was carried out by analysing known source rock intervals in these seven wells. In the present study, Rock-Eval pyrolysis combined with specific geochemical analyses like GC and TLC-FID has been used to characterise the source rocks, their distribution and thermal maturity of the organic matter. The source rocks in the area show mainly Type III, land-plant derived organic matter along with some Type II organic matter. They are predominantly gas prone in nature, although mixed and oil-prone source rocks are occasionally present. Although source rock intervals have been identified in the Langpar, Sylhet limestone and Kopili formations, the Barail Group and the Tipam sandstone Formation, the bulk of the source rock occurs within the Kopili Formation. Geochemical analyses of the cores indicate oil signatures at certain depths, although no commercial oil was discovered. The hydrocarbon generation potential of these source rocks are constrained by low maturity at the presently drilled depths.
Juncture of Erosion, Land Use/Cover Status and Hazardous Geomorphic Processes in Central Lesser Himalaya
Authors: Pande Anita
Published: May 2017

The high relief energy of the central lesser Himalayan terrain of Jaigan watershed would indicate to favour the occurrence of highly active geomorphic processes. Present investigation was based on two watersheds with different juncture of erosion, viz. Ghuniyoli and Santri watershed under youthful and equilibrium state of erosion respectively. The juncture of erosion of these watersheds was assessed under the impact of altitudinal variation as well as the erosion environment of these studied watersheds was evaluated under different land use/cover status. However, the present morphodynamics of Ghuniyoli and Santri watersheds can be considered for the detailed investigation of physical factors including geological situation as well as the cultural factors. The litho-structural set-up completely altered the sequential development of landform. The landscape under the resistant strata had undergone equilibrium (early mature) juncture while vulnerable lithology determined youthful (late) juncture. This occurred due to the active tectonics of the watershed. The existence of thrust along with contact zone of two lithologies created more erosion prone conditions in resistant strata. Land use/cover status when compared with juncture of erosion for the entire watershed also followed the same juncture of erosion. Finally it was observed that the juncture of erosion was reflected in hazardous geomorphic processes too. Landform under youthful juncture caused significant hazardous geomorphic processes in comparison to landform under mature juncture.
Early Radiographic and Tomographic Manifestations of Legionnaires' Disease
Authors: Poirier Rémi , Rodrigue Jean , Villeneuve Jasmin , Lacasse Yves
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Legionnaires' disease (LD) may occur sporadically or in the course of outbreaks, where the typical radiological manifestations of the disease may better be delineated. We took advantage of a rare community-based epidemic of LD (181 patients) that occurred in 2012 in Quebec City, Canada, to describe the radiographic features of LD and compare the its tomographic presentation with that of community-acquired pneumonia caused by common bacteria other than Legionella pneumophila.

Methods

From the 181 individuals affected in the outbreak, we obtained the chest radiographs of 159 individuals (mean 63 ± 15 years of age) for detailed analysis; 33 patients had a computed tomography (CT) scan performed during the course of their illness. In a case-control study, we compared the CT scans of patients with LD with those of patients who had received a diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia caused by a pathogen other than Legionella and confirmed by chest CT scan.

Results

Overall, LD most often presented as an airspace consolidation involving 1 of the lower lobes. Pleural effusion and mediastinal adenopathies were apparent only in a minority, whereas no pneumothorax or cavitation was noted. We did not find any significant difference in chest CT scan findings in patients with LD vs those with community-acquired pneumonia from other bacterial origin. No radiological finding was clearly associated with an increased risk of intensive care unit admission or mortality.

Conclusions

The early radiographic and tomographic manifestations of LD are nonspecific and similar to those found in community-acquired pneumonia from other bacterial origin.
Subjective processes surgical treatment in patients with stages of the disease hemorrhoidal
Authors: Freitas Magno Otávio Salgado de , Santos Jaciara Aparecida Dias , Sampaio Cristina Andrade
Published: May 2017

Introduction Hemorrhoidal disease afflicts 4.4% of the world population, being the most common anal disorder. Surgical treatment is used for about 5–10% of cases where conservative procedures have not worked.

Objective To understand the trajectory and perception of individuals submitted to surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease.

Methods This is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, which emphasized Cartography as the main method in the analysis of the results. Data were produced through individual interviews recorded and transcribed in full, from March to June 2015, in a Polyclinic and in a public hospital in the municipality of Montes Claros-MG. Twelve interviews were carried out.

Results The results evidenced the existence of processes of subjectivization that, through affectations, cause individuals to demonstrate a transcendent thought, exemplified by the sensation of a self-knowledge of the disease, including correlating it with possible hereditary, behavioral and alimentary causes. There was an escalation in the various levels of health care, standardized by the public system, sometimes revealing a molar thought, preventing the occurrence of an event, reducing power and failing to achieve a plan of immanence with the complete resolution of the problem. The hard lines, evidenced by a delay in obtaining a treatment thanks for fear and shame, favored self-medication, with a worsening of symptoms.

Conclusion It was noted that there were obstacles in all levels of the SUS that made it difficult to reach the surgical treatment, but all patients were considered with surgery and with the postoperative period.
Integration of Tactical EMS in the National Park Service
Authors: Smith William “Will” R.
Published: May 2017

The National Park Service (NPS) has domestic responsibility for emergency medical services (EMS) in remote and sometimes tactical situations in 417 units covering over 34 million hectares (84 million acres). The crossover between conflicting patient care priorities and complex medical decision making in the tactical, technical, and wilderness/remote environments often has many similarities. Patient care in these diverse locations, when compared with military settings, has slightly different variables but often similar corresponding risks to the patients and providers. The NPS developed a Tactical EMS (TEMS) program that closely integrated many principles from: 1) Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC); 2) Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC); 3) and other established federal and civilian TEMS programs. Combining these best practices into the NPS TEMS Program allowed for standardized training and implementation across not only the NPS, but also paralleled other military/federal/civilian TEMS programs. This synchronization is critical when an injury occurs in a joint tactical operation, either planned (drug interdiction) or unplanned (active shooter response), so that patient care can be uniform and efficient. The components identified for a sustainable TEMS program began with strong medical oversight, protocol development with defined phases of care, identifying specialized equipment, and organized implementation with trained TEMS instructors. Ongoing TEMS program management is continuously improving situationally appropriate training and integrating current best practices as new research, equipment, and tactics are developed. The NPS TEMS Program continues to provide ongoing training to ensure optimal patient care in tactical and other NPS settings.
Applying organizational psychology as a design science: A method for predicting malfunctions in socio-technical systems (PreMiSTS)
Authors: Clegg Chris W. , Robinson Mark A. , Davis Matthew C. , Bolton Lucy E. , Pieniazek Rebecca L. , McKay Alison
Published: May 2017

As a discipline, design science has traditionally focused on designing products and associated technical processes to improve usability and performance. Although significant progress has been made in these areas, little research has yet examined the role of human behaviour in the design of socio-technical systems (e.g., organizations). Here, we argue that applying organizational psychology as a design science can address this omission and enhance the capability of both disciplines. Specifically, we propose a method to predict malfunctions in socio-technical systems (PreMiSTS), thereby enabling them to be designed out or mitigated. We introduce this method, describe its nine stages, and illustrate its application with reference to two high-profile case studies of such malfunctions: (1) the severe breakdowns in patient care at the UK’s Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust hospital in the period 2005–2009, and (2) the fatal Grayrigg rail accident in Cumbria, UK, in 2007. Having first identified the socio-technical and behavioural antecedents of these malfunctions, we then consider how the PreMiSTS method could be used to predict and prevent future malfunctions of this nature. Finally, we evaluate the method, consider its advantages and disadvantages, and suggest where it can be most usefully applied.
Smooth foliations by circles of with unbounded periods and nonlinearizable multicentres
Authors: VILLARINI MASSIMO
Published: May 2017

We give an example of a$C^{\infty }$vector field$X$, defined in a neighbourhood$U$of$0\in \mathbb{R}^{8}$, such that$U-\{0\}$is foliated by closed integral curves of$X$, the differential$DX(0)$at$0$defines a one-parameter group of non-degenerate rotations and$X$isnotorbitally equivalent to its linearization. Such a vector field$X$has the first integral$I(x)=\Vert x\Vert ^{2}$, and its main feature is that its period function islocally unboundednear the stationary point. This proves in the$C^{\infty }$category that the classical Poincaré centre theorem, true for planar non-degenerate centres, is not generalizable to multicentres. Such an example is obtained through a careful study and a suitable modification of a celebrated example by Sullivan [A counterexample to the periodic orbit conjecture.Publ. Math. Inst. Hautes Études Sci. 46(1976), 5–14], by blowing up the stationary point at the origin and through the construction of a smooth one-parameter family of foliations by circles of$S^{7}$whose orbits have unbounded lengths (equivalently, unbounded periods) for each value of the parameter and which smoothly converges to the Hopf fibration$S^{1}{\hookrightarrow}S^{7}\rightarrow \mathbb{CP}^{3}$.
Lower bounds for the Ruelle spectrum of analytic expanding circle maps
Authors: BANDTLOW OSCAR F. , NAUD FRÉDÉRIC
Published: May 2017

We prove that there exists a dense set of analytic expanding maps of the circle for which the Ruelle eigenvalues enjoy exponential lower bounds. The proof combines potential theoretic techniques and explicit calculations for the spectrum of expanding Blaschke products.
Vitamin D levels during pregnancy and associations with birth weight and body composition of the newborn: a longitudinal multiethnic population-based study
Authors: Eggemoen Åse R. , Jenum Anne K. , Mdala Ibrahimu , Knutsen Kirsten V. , Lagerløv Per , Sletner Line
Published: May 2017

We investigated associations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in pregnancy and birth weight and other neonatal anthropometric measures. The present study was a population-based, multiethnic cohort study of 719 pregnant women (59 % ethnic minorities) in Oslo, Norway, delivering a singleton neonate at term and with birth weight measurements. In a representative sample, anthropometric measurements were taken. Maternal 25(OH)D was measured at gestational weeks 15 and 28. Women with 25(OH)D <37 nmol/l were recommended vitamin D3 supplementation. Separate linear regression analyses were performed to model the associations between 25(OH)D and each of the outcomes: birth weight, crown–heel length, head circumference, abdominal circumference, sum of skinfolds, mid-upper arm circumference and ponderal index. In early pregnancy, 51 % of the women were vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D<50 nmol/l). In univariate analyses and in models adjusting for maternal age, parity, education, prepregnancy BMI, season, gestational age and neonate sex, maternal 25(OH)D was significantly associated with birth weight, head circumference, abdominal circumference and ponderal index (P<0·05 for all), when used as a continuous variable and categorised (consistently low, consistently high, increasing and decreasing level). However, after adjusting for ethnicity, 25(OH)D was no longer associated with any of the outcomes. Sex-specific associations for abdominal circumference and sum of skinfolds were found (Pfor interaction<0·05). In conclusion, in a multiethnic cohort of pregnant women with high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, we found no independent relation between maternal vitamin D levels and any of the neonatal anthropometric measures, and the strong association between ethnicity and neonatal outcomes was not affected by maternal vitamin D status.
High Asia: The International Dynamics of Climate Change and Water Security
Authors: Wilson Alāna M. , Gladfelter Sierra , Williams Mark W. , Shahi Sonika , Baral Prashant , Armstrong Richard , Racoviteanu Adina
Published: May 2017

Asia, a region grappling with the impacts of climate change, increasing natural disasters, and transboundary water issues, faces major challenges to water security. Water resources there are closely tied to the dramatic Hindu-Kush Himalayan (HKH) mountain range, where over 46,000 glaciers hold some of the largest repositories of fresh water on earth (Qiu 2010). Often described as the water tower of Asia, the HKH harbors the snow and ice that form the headwaters of the continent's major rivers (Bandyopadhyay 2013). Downstream, this network of river systems sustains more than 1.3 billion people who depend on these freshwater sources for their consumption and agricultural production, and increasingly as a source of hydropower (Immerzeel, Van Beek, and Bierkens 2010; National Research Council 2012; Rasul 2014).
Neurocognitive impairment in deficit and non-deficit schizophrenia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Bora E. , Binnur Akdede B. , Alptekin K.
Published: May 2017

Background

Most studies suggested that patients with deficit schizophrenia have more severe impairment compared with patients with non-deficit schizophrenia. However, it is not clear whether deficit and non-deficit schizophrenia are associated with differential neurocognitive profiles.

Methods

The aim of this meta-analytic review was to compare cognitive performances of deficit and non-deficit patients with each other and with healthy controls. In the current meta-analysis, differences in cognitive abilities between 897 deficit and 1636 non-deficit patients with schizophrenia were examined. Cognitive performances of 899 healthy controls were also compared with 350 patients with deficit and 592 non-deficit schizophrenia.

Results

Both deficit (d= 1.04–1.53) and non-deficit (d= 0.68–1.19) schizophrenia were associated with significant deficits in all cognitive domains. Deficit patients underperformed non-deficit patients in all cognitive domains (d= 0.24–0.84) and individual tasks (d= 0.39–0.93). The relationship between deficit syndrome and impairment in olfaction, social cognition, verbal fluency, and speed-based cognitive tasks were relatively stronger.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that there is consistent evidence for a significant relationship between deficit syndrome and more severe cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.
A dynamic design approach using the Kalman filter for uncertainty management
Authors: Keshavarzi Elham , McIntire Matthew , Hoyle Christopher
Published: May 2017

It is desirable for complex engineered systems to beresilientto various sources of uncertainty throughout their life cycle. Such systems are high in cost and complexity, and often incorporate highly sophisticated materials, components, design, and other technologies. There are many uncertainties such systems will face throughout their life cycles due to changes in internal and external conditions, orstates of interest, to the designer, such as technology readiness, market conditions, or system health. These states of interest affect the success of the system design with respect to the main objectives and application of the system, and are generally uncertain over the life cycle of the system. To address such uncertainties, we propose a resilient design approach for engineering systems. We utilize a Kalman filter approach to model the uncertain future states of interest. Then, based upon the modeled states, the optimal change in the design of the system is achieved to respond to the new states. This resilient method is applicable in systems when the ability to change is embedded in the system design. A design framework is proposed encompassing a set of definitions, metrics, and methodologies. A case study of a communication satellite system is presented to illustrate the features of the approach.
The prediction of multiaxial fatigue probabilistic stress–life curve by using fuzzy theory
Authors: Li Bochuan , Jiang Chao , Han Xu , Li Yuan
Published: May 2017

The fuzziness of the traditional multiaxial fatigue prediction model is discussed and the fuzzy theory is applied into fatigue reliability analysis. The fuzzy linear regression analysis method is used to determine the fuzzy coefficients in the multiaxial stress–life equation under a small sample condition, and the corresponding multiaxial fatigue probabilistic stress–life curve is calculated with different confidence levels.
Further Insights Into the German Version of the Multidimensional	Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA)
Authors: Reis Dorota
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Interoception is defined as an iterative process that refers to receiving, accessing, appraising, and responding to body sensations. Recently, following an extensive process of development, Mehling and colleagues (2012) proposed a new instrument, the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA), which captures these different aspects of interoception with eight subscales. The aim of this study was to reexamine the dimensionality of the MAIA by applying maximum likelihood confirmatory factor analysis (ML-CFA), exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), and Bayesian structural equation modeling (BSEM). ML-CFA, ESEM, and BSEM were examined in a sample of 320 German adults. ML-CFA showed a poor fit to the data. ESEM yielded a better fit and contained numerous significant cross-loadings, of which one was substantial (≥ .30). The BSEM model with approximate zero informative priors yielded an excellent fit and confirmed the substantial cross-loading found in ESEM. The study demonstrates that ESEM and BSEM are flexible techniques that can be used to improve our understanding of multidimensional constructs. In addition, BSEM can be seen as less exploratory than ESEM and it might also be used to overcome potential limitations of ESEM with regard to more complex models relative to the sample size.
Factor Structure of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale
Authors: Vajda Dóra , Thege Barna Konkolÿ , Rózsa Sándor
Published: May 2017

Abstract. The Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) is one of the most widely used instruments for measuring relationship quality. Considering the discrepancies across studies regarding the relationship of the underlying constructs of the DAS, the aim of the present study was to examine the factor structure of the scale by applying bifactor models using confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) approaches. The sample consisted of 483 couples recruited in Hungary. The analysis revealed that the bifactor-ESEM yielded the best fit to the data (CFI = .90, RMSEA = .05, WRMR = .88). Further, strict invariance between the sexes was observed for this model. Omega hierarchical coefficients indicated outstanding reliability for the general factor (.86), acceptable estimates for the Dyadic Consensus (.60) and Cohesion (.57) subdomains, but poor reliability for the Dyadic Satisfaction (.22) and Affectional Expression (.36) factors; suggesting that the individual interpretation of these latter two subconstructs must be made with caution.
Black Carbon Measurements in the Arctic Get an Upgrade
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: May 2017

Long-term data of higher accuracy could help improve global climate models and reveal trends in black carbon’s influence on Arctic climate.
Academy President Warns of “Storm Clouds” on the Horizon
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: May 2017

McNutt says that business as usual “is not a viable option” for the academy in the near term to fulfill its mission and remain a relevant institution.
Does Originality Evoke Understanding? The Relation between Literary Reading and Empathy
Authors: Koopman Eva Maria (Emy)
Published: May 2017

It is easy enough to theorize about the impact of literary reading on empathic reactions, but to empirically prove such effects is more difficult. This article provides a concise overview of the theoretical and empirical evidence that literary reading has an effect on empathy (in its multiple forms), distinguishing between the effects of literariness, narrativity and fictionality. Subsequently, it discusses the results of 2 recently conducted studies into reading and empathic understanding. As will become clear, we are still quite a long way from knowing when and how (literary) reading has an effect on empathy for others. Suggestions are offered how future studies can tackle this issue.
Diptoindonesin G promotes ERK-mediated nuclear translocation of p-STAT1 (Ser727) and cell differentiation in AML cells
Authors: Gao Jian , Fan Minmin , Xiang Gang , Wang Jujuan , Zhang Xiong , Guo Wenjie , Wu Xuefeng , Sun Yang , Gu Yanhong , Ge Huiming , Tan Renxiang , Qiu Hongxia , Shen Yan , Xu Qiang
Published: May 2017

Exploration of a new differentiation therapy that extends the range of differentiation for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is attractive to researchers and clinicians. Here we report that diptoindonesin G (Dip G), a natural resveratrol aneuploid, exerts antiproliferative activity by inducing G2/M phase arrest and cell differentiation in AML cell lines and primary AML cells. Gene-profiling experiments showed that treating human leukemia HL-60 cells with Dip G was associated with a remarkable upregulation of STAT1 target gene expression, including IFIT3 and CXCL10. Mechanistically, Dip G activated ERK, which caused phosphorylation of STAT1 at Ser727 and selectively enhanced the interaction of p-STAT1 (Ser727) and p-ERK, further promoting their nuclear translocation. The nuclear translocation of p-STAT1 and p-ERK enhanced the transactivation of STAT1-targeted genes in AML cells. Furthermore, in vivo treatment of HL-60 xenografts demonstrated that Dip G significantly inhibited tumor growth and reduced tumor weight by inducing cell differentiation. Taken together, these results shed light on an essential role for ERK-mediated nuclear translocation of p-STAT1 (Ser727) and its full transcriptional activity in Dip G-induced differentiation of AML cells. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that Dip G could be used as a differentiation-inducing agent for AML therapy, particularly for non-acute promyelocytic leukemia therapy.
Coulomb engineering of the bandgap and excitons in two-dimensional materials
Authors: Raja Archana , Chaves Andrey , Yu Jaeeun , Arefe Ghidewon , Hill Heather M. , Rigosi Albert F. , Berkelbach Timothy C. , Nagler Philipp , Schüller Christian , Korn Tobias , Nuckolls Colin , Hone James , Brus Louis E. , Heinz Tony F. , Reichman David R. , Chernikov Alexey
Published: May 2017

The ability to control the size of the electronic bandgap is an integral part of solid-state technology. Atomically thin two-dimensional crystals offer a new approach for tuning the energies of the electronic states based on the unusual strength of the Coulomb interaction in these materials and its environmental sensitivity. Here, we show that by engineering the surrounding dielectric environment, one can tune the electronic bandgap and the exciton binding energy in monolayers of WS2 and WSe2 by hundreds of meV. We exploit this behaviour to present an in-plane dielectric heterostructure with a spatially dependent bandgap, as an initial step towards the creation of diverse lateral junctions with nanoscale resolution.
Confocal imaging of single BaTiO3 nanoparticles by two-photon photothermal microscopy
Authors: Bijeesh M. M. , Shakhi P. K. , Arunkarthick S. , Varier Geetha K. , Nandakumar P.
Published: May 2017

We report on the development of a nonlinear optical microscopic technique based on two-photon absorption induced photothermal effect capable of detecting individual nonfluorescent nanoparticles with high sensitivity. The method which is inherently confocal makes use of near infrared excitation at high repetition rates and would be of interest in deep tissue imaging. We demonstrate the applicability of the technique by imaging single BaTiO3 nanoparticles, a potential biomolecular label having high photostability, in a scattering environment at fast time scales with a pixel dwell time of 80 μs.
Reentrant Resistive Behavior and Dimensional Crossover in Disordered Superconducting TiN Films
Authors: Postolova Svetlana V. , Mironov Alexey Yu. , Baklanov Mikhail R. , Vinokur Valerii M. , Baturina Tatyana I.
Published: May 2017

A reentrant temperature dependence of the normal state resistance often referred to as the N-shaped temperature dependence, is omnipresent in disordered superconductors – ranging from high-temperature cuprates to ultrathin superconducting films – that experience superconductor-to-insulator transition. Yet, despite the ubiquity of this phenomenon its origin still remains a subject of debate. Here we investigate strongly disordered superconducting TiN films and demonstrate universality of the reentrant behavior. We offer a quantitative description of the N-shaped resistance curve. We show that upon cooling down the resistance first decreases linearly with temperature and then passes through the minimum that marks the 3D–2D crossover in the system. In the 2D temperature range the resistance first grows with decreasing temperature due to quantum contributions and eventually drops to zero as the system falls into a superconducting state. Our findings demonstrate the prime importance of disorder in dimensional crossover effects.
Epitaxial growth of Cu(001) thin films onto Si(001) using a single-step HiPIMS process
Authors: Cemin Felipe , Lundin Daniel , Furgeaud Clarisse , Michel Anny , Amiard Guillaume , Minea Tiberiu , Abadias Gregory
Published: May 2017

We report on a new route to grow epitaxial copper (Cu) ultra-thin films (up to 150 nm thick) at ambient temperature on Si(001) wafers covered with native oxide without any prior chemical etching or plasma cleaning of the substrate. It consists of a single-step deposition process using high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) and substrate biasing. For a direct current (DC) substrate bias voltage of −130 V, Cu/Si heteroepitaxial growth is achieved by HiPIMS following the Cu(001) [100]//Si(001) [110] orientation, while under the same average deposition conditions, but using conventional DC magnetron sputtering, polycrystalline Cu films with [111] preferred orientation are deposited. In addition, the intrinsic stress has been measuredin situduring growth by real-time monitoring of the wafer curvature. For this particular HiPIMS case, the stress is slightly compressive (−0.1 GPa), but almost fully relaxes after growth is terminated. As a result of epitaxy, the Cu surface morphology exhibits a regular pattern consisting of square-shaped mounds with a lateral size of typically 150 nm. For all samples, X-ray diffraction pole figures and scanning/transmission electron microscopy reveal the formation of extensive twinning of the Cu {111} planes.
Honokiol inhibits ultraviolet radiation-induced immunosuppression through inhibition of ultraviolet-induced inflammation and DNA hypermethylation in mouse skin
Authors: Prasad Ram , Singh Tripti , Katiyar Santosh K.
Published: May 2017

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure induces immunosuppression, which contributes to the development of cutaneous malignancies. We investigated the effects of honokiol, a phytochemical found in plants of the genusMagnolia, on UVB-induced immunosuppression using contact hypersensitivity (CHS) as a model in C3H/HeN mice. Topical application of honokiol (0.5 and 1.0 mg/cm2skin area) had a significant preventive effect on UVB-induced suppression of the CHS response. The inflammatory mediators, COX-2 and PGE2, played a key role in this effect, as indicated by honokiol inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and PGE2production in the UVB-exposed skin. Honokiol application also inhibited UVB-induced DNA hypermethylation and its elevation of the levels of TET enzyme, which is responsible for DNA demethylation in UVB-exposed skin. This was consistent with the restoration of the CHS response in mice treated with the DNA demethylating agent, 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine, after UVB exposure. There was no significant difference in the levels of inhibition of UVB-induced immunosuppression amongst mice that were treated topically with available anti-cancer drugs (imiquimod and 5-fluorouracil). This study is the first to show that honokiol has the ability to inhibit UVB-induced immunosuppression in preclinical model and, thus, has potential for use as a chemopreventive strategy for UVB radiation-induced malignancies.
The formation mechanism of tear strips on stretched Ti-22Al-25Nb alloy sheets
Authors: Zong Yingying , Shao Bin , Xu Wenchen , Guo Bin , Shan Debin
Published: May 2017

This paper reports the presence of tear strips on the surface of a Ti-22Al-25Nb alloy sheet stretched at 960 °C. The test piece reveals a “bamboo”-shaped pattern on its surface, which severely affects the quality of the alloy. Microstructure analysis indicates that the formation mechanism of the tear strip is related to both the rich α2 phase layer and the interfacial B2 phase dynamic recrystallization layer between the α2 phase layer and the substrate metal.
Rare Polyene-polyol Macrolides from Mangrove-derived Streptomyces sp. ZQ4BG
Authors: Wang Wenling , Song Tengfei , Chai Weiyun , Chen Lu , Chen Lei , Lian Xiao-Yuan , Zhang Zhizhen
Published: May 2017

Bioactive natural products from mangrove-derived actinomycetes are important sources for discovery of drug lead compounds. In this study, an extract prepared from culture of an actinomycete Streptomyces sp. ZQ4BG isolated from mangrove soils was found to have activity in inhibiting proliferation of glioma cells. Large culture of this mangrove actinomycete in Gause’s liquid medium resulted in isolation of seven novel polyene-polyol macrolides, named as flavofungins III–IX (3–9), together with known flavofungins I (1) and II (2) and spectinabilin (10). Structures of these isolated compounds were elucidated by extensive NMR analyses and HRESIMS data. The stereochemical assignments were achieved by a combination of NOE information, universal NMR database, and chemical reactions including preparation of acetonide derivatives and Mosher esters. Flavofungins IV–VIII (4–8) are rare 32-membered polyene-polyol macrolides with a tetrahydrofuran ring, while flavofungin IX (9) represents the first example of this type of macrolide with a unique oxepane ring. Flavofungins I (1) and II (2) and spectinabilin (10) showed anti-glioma and antifungal activities.
Matrix elasticity-modified scaffold loaded with SDF-1α improves the in situ regeneration of segmental bone defect in rabbit radius
Authors: Chen Guobao , Lv Yonggang
Published: May 2017

The effectiveness of stem-cell based therapy has been hampered by the limited availability of stem cell sources, immune rejection, and difficulties in clinical adoption and regulatory approval. These obstacles can be partially circumvented by using in situ tissue engineering that recruits the endogenous stem/progenitor cells and provides cues to direct stem cell phenotype. Here, decellularized bone scaffold is mechanically modified by coating of collagen (Col)/hydroxyapatite (HA) mixture with optimal ratio and loaded with chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α), in which endogenous stem cell recruitment can be improved by chemokine and stem cell fate can be regulated by matrix elasticity of the scaffold. This study shows that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) osteogenesis in vitro was enhanced by matrix elasticity and SDF-1α, and endogenous MSCs recruitment in subcutaneous implantation of rat was increased by the release of SDF-1α from the scaffold, and bone regeneration in rabbit large bone defect model was significantly improved by matrix elasticity and SDF-1α. In short, this study provides a new insight for developing novel engineered cell-free bone substitutes by mechanical modification for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of novel Hedgehog Inhibitors for treating Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Chaudhary Amit Kumar , Dong Yuxiang , Zhong Haizhen A. , Mondal Goutam , Lin Feng , Kumar Virender , Mahato Ram I.
Published: May 2017

Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC) maintenance resulting in tumor progression. GDC-0449, an inhibitor of Hh pathway component smoothened (Smo) has shown promise in the treatment of various cancers including pancreatic cancer. However, the emergence of resistance during GDC-0449 treatment with numerous side effects limits its use. Therefore, here we report the design, synthesis and evaluation of novel GDC-0449 analogs using N-[3-(2-pyridinyl) phenyl] benzamide scaffold. Cell-based screening followed by molecular simulation revealed 2-chloro-N1-[4-chloro-3-(2-pyridinyl)phenyl]-N4,N4-bis(2-pyridinylmethyl)-1,4-benzenedicarboxamide (MDB5) as most potent analog, binding with an extra interactions in seven-transmembrane (7-TM) domain of Smo due to an additional 2-pyridylmethyl group than GDC-0449. Moreover, MDB5 was more efficient in inhibiting Hh pathway components as measured by Gli-1 and Shh at transcriptional and translational levels. Additionally, a significant reduction of ALDH1, CD44 and Oct-3/4, key markers of pancreatic CSC was observed when MIA PaCa-2 cells were treated with MDB5 compared to GDC-0449. In a pancreatic tumor mouse model, MDB5 containing nanoparticles treated group showed significant inhibition of tumor growth without loss in body weight. These evidence highlight the enhanced Hh pathway inhibition and anticancer properties of MDB5 leaving a platform for mono and/or combination therapy.
Transcriptome analysis of dominant-negative Brd4 mutants identifies Brd4-specific target genes of small molecule inhibitor JQ1
Authors: Decker Tim-Michael , Kluge Michael , Krebs Stefan , Shah Nilay , Blum Helmut , Friedel Caroline C. , Eick Dirk
Published: May 2017

The bromodomain protein Brd4 is an epigenetic reader and plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of leukemia. Brd4 binds to acetylated histone tails and activates transcription by recruiting the positive elongation factor P-TEFb. Small molecule inhibitor JQ1 competitively binds the bromodomains of Brd4 and displaces the protein from acetylated histones. However, it remains unclear whether genes targeted by JQ1 are mainly regulated by Brd4 or by other bromodomain proteins such as Brd2 and Brd3. Here, we describe anti-proliferative dominant-negative Brd4 mutants that compete with the function of distinct Brd4 domains. We used these Brd4 mutants to compare the Brd4-specific transcriptome with the transcriptome of JQ1-treated cells. We found that most JQ1-regulated genes are also regulated by dominant-negative Brd4 mutants, including the mutant that competes with the P-TEFb recruitment function of Brd4. Importantly, JQ1 and dominant-negative Brd4 mutants regulated the same set of target genes of c-Myc, a key regulator of the JQ1 response in leukemia cells. Our results suggest that Brd4 mediates most of the anti-cancer effects of JQ1 and that the major function of Brd4 in this process is the recruitment of P-TEFb. In summary, our studies define the molecular targets of JQ1 in more detail.