bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Nano-Scale Au/α-Fe2O3 Catalyst for the Preferential Oxidation of CO in Biofuel Reformate Gas
Authors: Shodiya Titilayo , Peng Wen , Hotz Nico
Published: December 2013

Au/α-Fe2O3 catalyst was synthesized using a modified co-precipitation method to generate an inverse catalyst model. The effects of introducing CO2 and H2O during preferential oxidation (PROX) of CO were investigated. The goal of this work was ≥99.8% CO conversion at 80°C. There was an increase in the conversion at all temperatures with the introduction of CO2 and 100% of the CO was converted at the target temperature of 80°C for any amount of CO2. Furthermore, there was an increase in conversion to 100% for water fractions ranging from 3% to 10%.

Finally, for realistic conditions of (bio-)fuel reforming, 24% CO2 and 10% water, 99.85% conversion was achieved. A long-term test of 200 hours showed no significant deactivation of the catalyst at a temperature of 80°C in presence of 24% CO2 and 3% water. The mechanism for PROX is not known definitively, however, current literature believes the gold particle size is the key. In contrast, we emphasize the tremendous role of the support particle size.
Performance Evaluation of a Catalytic Flat Plate Fuel Reformer for Hydrogen-Rich Reformate
Authors: Das Susanta K. , Berry K. Joel
Published: December 2013

A two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is used for reforming methane with the help of catalytic combustion and reformation in a catalytic flat plate reformer. The two-dimensional approach makes the computational model more realistic by eliminating the uncertainties introduced by heat and mass transfer coefficients used in one-dimensional models. It also increased its capability to capture the effect of design parameters such as catalyst thickness, reaction rates, inlet temperature and velocity, and channel height has on producing high purity reformate gas. In order to carry out parametric studies related to various design parameters, in our present work, we simulate the entire flat plate reformer domain by considering full electro-kinetics that provide guidance for the practical implementation of such design. We chose different designs and operating conditions in such a way which makes possible to build a catalytic flat plate fuel reformer prototype. Based on the CFD results obtained in this study, we built a first generation catalytic flat plate fuel reformer prototype using the optimized design parameters. The performance of the fuel reformer prototype is tested with a 5-cell high temperature PEM fuel cell stack.
Measuring Critical Velocity of Water Droplet Removal on Gas Diffusion Layers of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Novak Caymen , Hsu Emily , Schuster Richard , Wang Xia
Published: December 2013

The production of water on the cathode electrode of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells may cause problems with flooding or freezing of cell. Therefore, there is a need for water management. This study investigates water droplet removal on the gas diffusion layer by measuring critical velocity-the velocity needed to remove droplets formed above the GDL. A test apparatus was designed for this study, and the effects of droplet diameter, GDL thickness, and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) loading on the critical velocity were studied. When droplet diameter and PTFE loading were increased, a decrease in critical velocity was observed. However, as GDL thickness increased, depending on the PTFE loading, either an increase or decrease in critical velocity was observed. Thus, it was concluded that increased droplet diameter and increased PTFE loading result in lower critical velocities, increasing thickness results in lower critical velocity for low PTFE loadings, and increasing thickness does not have a significant effect on the critical velocity for high PTFE loadings. This work increases the understanding of designing an optimum GDL in the fuel cell, while also providing insight on the critical velocity needed to remove water droplets from the GDL.
Initial Development of a Method for Optical Measurement of Water Droplet Formation in the Cathode Flow Channel of a PEM Fuel Cell
Authors: Stuart Hannah , Inman Kristopher , Wang Xia
Published: December 2013

Cathode flooding in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, or the displacement of reactant gases from the catalyst layer by water formation, limits performance and durability. Water transport is not yet well understood and can vary under different operating conditions, such as temperature. Previous work performed to characterize water formation has mostly involved water visualization, using materials/construction which could alter water condensation characteristics. The objective of this work is to investigate a method to optically measure the relative size of water droplet formation in PEM fuel cell cathode gas flow channels using an unobtrusive and previously developed temperature sensor. A single-sensor mathematical model was developed which considers channel geometry, fiber diameter, and water droplet shape and size. Droplet formation involved three different possible shapes, resulting from different hydrophobic properties of channel material. Ex situ testing utilized chromium doped yttrium aluminum garnet as the chosen phosphor, applied to a carbon paper GDL. No correlation was found between the theoretical model and the experimental findings. Although signal attenuation cannot accurately predict droplet size, it is still possible to characterize water droplet formation using statistical analysis. Since a water droplet consistently produces measurable attenuation, the frequency of water droplet detection in the flow channel can be used to characterize the amount of water formation or flooding in the cathode flow channels. The work is ongoing and new methods of water droplet characterization are still being investigated.
Investigation of Mechanical Behavior of Membrane in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells Subject to Dynamic Changes in Load
Authors: Verma A. , Pitchumani R.
Published: December 2013

One of the major barriers for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells to be commercially viable for stationary and transport applications is the durability of membranes undergoing chemical and mechanical degradation over the period of operation. Toward understanding the effects of operating parameters on membrane durability, this paper presents numerical simulations for a single channel PEM fuel cell undergoing changes in load, by subjecting the unit cell to step change in voltage. The objective is to elucidate the mechanical response of membrane, which is subjected to hygral (water) loading and unloading cycles at constant temperature. Detailed three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are conducted, taking in to account the complex interactions of water transport dynamics and load changes, to accurately capture the water content in the membrane with changes in cell voltage. The water content obtained through CFD simulations is, in turn, used to carry out two-dimensional (2D) finite element (FE) analysis to predict the mechanical response of the membrane undergoing cyclic change in water content, as the operating voltage is cycled. The effects of cyclic changes in cell potential on the stresses induced, amount of plastic strain and their localization are analyzed for various inlet cathode humidity values for two sections along the length of the fuel cell.
Preliminary Results of Experiments on a Single Cell Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Fueled With Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Zabihian Farshid , Davari Asad , Osei-Prempeh Gifty
Published: December 2013

Coal-fueled fuel cells can be an important part of the future power generation infrastructure. The coal can be gasified through partial oxidation process to produce a carbon monoxide rich gaseous fuel. But this fuel gas cannot be used as fuel in the conventional polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC). The idea that is introduced and investigated in this paper is to develop a single cell PEFC that can be fueled with carbon monoxide. It is shown that this idea is feasible. Also, the preliminary results of the experiments are presented to investigate the effects of various design, fabrication, and operational conditions on the performance of the single cell PEFC fueled with carbon monoxide.
Numerical Investigation of Water and Temperature Distributions for Open-Cathode Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Stack With Edge Cooling
Authors: Sasmito Agus Pulung , Shamim Tariq , Birgersson Erik , Mujumdar Arun Sadashiv
Published: December 2013

Portable and motive applications of open-cathode polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) require not only good stack performance but also a light and compact design. In this context, we explore how edge cooling with three different fin designs — one standard rectangular fin and two triangular fins that essentially halve the size of the fins — can improve the thermal and water envelopes inside the stack as well as stack performance whilst reducing the overall volume. The results suggest that all three edge-cooling designs give rise to lower and more uniform local temperature distributions as well as higher and more uniform hydration levels at the membrane in the stack compared to the conventional open-cathode PEFC without fins and design with additional air coolant plates. In addition, edge cooling design with one of the triangular fins yields the best performance (around 5% higher in term of power per unit catalyst area and power per unit weight; and ∼10% higher in term of power per unit volume as compared to other designs). Overall, the triangular fin design shows potential to be used in, for example, automotive applications due to its high performance as well as lightweight and compact design.
Using Shewanella Oneidensis MR1 as a Biocatalyst in a Microscale Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Yang Jie , Ghobadian Sasan , Montazami Reza , Hashemi Nastaran
Published: December 2013

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology is a promising area in the field of renewable energy because of their capability to use the energy contained in wastewater, which has been previously an untapped source of power. Microscale MFCs are desirable for their small footprints, relatively high power density, fast start-up, and environmentally-friendly process. Microbial fuel cells employ microorganisms as the biocatalysts instead of metal catalysts, which are widely applied in conventional fuel cells. MFCs are capable of generating electricity as long as nutrition is provided. Miniature MFCs have faster power generation recovery than macroscale MFCs. Additionally, since power generation density is affected by the surface-to-volume ratio, miniature MFCs can facilitate higher power density. We have designed and fabricated a microscale microbial fuel cell with a volume of 4 μL in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chamber. The anode and cathode chambers were separated by a proton exchange membrane. Carbon cloth was used for both the anode and the cathode. Shewanella Oneidensis MR-1 was chosen to be the electrogenic bacteria and was inoculated into the anode chamber. We employed Ferricyanide as the catholyte and introduced it into the cathode chamber with a constant flow rate of approximately 50 μL/hr. We used trypticase soy broth as the bacterial nutrition and added it into the anode chamber approximately every 15 hours once current dropped to base current. Using our miniature MFC, we were able to generate a maximum current of 4.62 μA.
Commonly Used Disinfectants Fail To Eradicate Salmonella enterica Biofilms from Food Contact Surface Materials
Authors: Corcoran M. , Morris D. , De Lappe N. , O'Connor J. , Lalor P. , Dockery P. , Cormican M.
Published: December 2013

Salmonellosis is the second most common cause of food-borne illness worldwide. Contamination of surfaces in food processing environments may result in biofilm formation with a risk of food contamination. Effective decontamination of biofilm-contaminated surfaces is challenging. Using the CDC biofilm reactor, the activities of sodium hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, and benzalkonium chloride were examined against an early (48-h) and relatively mature (168-h)
Salmonella
biofilm. All 3 agents result in reduction in viable counts of
Salmonella
; however, only sodium hydroxide resulted in eradication of the early biofilm. None of the agents achieved eradication of mature biofilm, even at the 90-min contact time. Studies of activity of chemical disinfection against biofilm should include assessment of activity against mature biofilm. The difficulty of eradication of established
Salmonella
biofilm serves to emphasize the priority of preventing access of
Salmonella
to postcook areas of food production facilities.
Thermoanaerobacterthermohydrosulfuricus WC1 Shows Protein Complement Stability during Fermentation of Key Lignocellulose-Derived Substrates
Authors: Verbeke Tobin J. , Spicer Vic , Krokhin Oleg V. , Zhang Xiangli , Schellenberg John J. , Fristensky Brian , Wilkins John A. , Levin David B. , Sparling Richard
Published: December 2013

Thermoanaerobacter
spp. have long been considered suitable
Clostridium thermocellum
coculture partners for improving lignocellulosic biofuel production through consolidated bioprocessing. However, studies using “omic”-based profiling to better understand carbon utilization and biofuel producing pathways have been limited to only a few strains thus far. To better characterize carbon and electron flux pathways in the recently isolated, xylanolytic strain,
Thermoanaerobacter thermohydrosulfuricus
WC1, label-free quantitative proteomic analyses were combined with metabolic profiling. SWATH-MS proteomic analysis quantified 832 proteins in each of six proteomes isolated from mid-exponential-phase cells grown on xylose, cellobiose, or a mixture of both. Despite encoding genes consistent with a carbon catabolite repression network observed in other Gram-positive organisms, simultaneous consumption of both substrates was observed. Lactate was the major end product of fermentation under all conditions despite the high expression of gene products involved with ethanol and/or acetate synthesis, suggesting that carbon flux in this strain may be controlled via metabolite-based (allosteric) regulation or is constrained by metabolic bottlenecks. Cross-species “omic” comparative analyses confirmed similar expression patterns for end-product-forming gene products across diverse
Thermoanaerobacter
spp. It also identified differences in cofactor metabolism, which potentially contribute to differences in end-product distribution patterns between the strains analyzed. The analyses presented here improve our understanding of
T. thermohydrosulfuricus
WC1 metabolism and identify important physiological limitations to be addressed in its development as a biotechnologically relevant strain in ethanologenic designer cocultures through consolidated bioprocessing.
Examination of Taxonomic Uncertainties Surrounding Brucella abortus bv. 7 by Phenotypic and Molecular Approaches
Authors: Garin-Bastuji Bruno , Mick Virginie , Le Carrou Gilles , Allix Sebastien , Perrett Lorraine L. , Dawson Claire E. , Groussaud Pauline , Stubberfield Emma J. , Koylass Mark , Whatmore Adrian M.
Published: December 2013

Brucella
taxonomy is perpetually being reshuffled, at both the species and intraspecies levels. Biovar 7 of
Brucella abortus
was suspended from the
Approved Lists of Bacterial Names
Brucella
classification in 1988, because of unpublished evidence that the reference strain 63/75 was a mixture of
B. abortus
biovars 3 and 5. To formally clarify the situation, all isolates previously identified as
B. abortus
bv. 7 in the AHVLA and ANSES strain collections were characterized by classical microbiological and multiple molecular approaches. Among the 14 investigated strains, including strain 63/75, only four strains, isolated in Kenya, Turkey, and Mongolia, were pure and showed a phenotypic profile in agreement with the former biovar 7, particularly agglutination with both anti-A/anti-M monospecific sera. These results were strengthened by molecular strategies. Indeed, genus- and species-specific methods allowed confirmation that the four pure strains belonged to the
B. abortus
species. The combination of most approaches excluded their affiliation with the recognized biovars (biovars 1 to 6 and 9), while some suggested that they were close to biovar 3.These assays were complemented by phylogenetic and/or epidemiological methods, such as multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis. The results of this polyphasic investigation allow us to propose the reintroduction of biovar 7 into the
Brucella
classification, with at least three representative strains. Interestingly, the Kenyan strain, sharing the same biovar 7 phenotype, was genetically divergent from other three isolates. These discrepancies illustrate the complexity of
Brucella
taxonomy. This study suggests that worldwide collections could include strains misidentified as
B. abortus
bv. 7, and it highlights the need to verify their real taxonomic position.
Implications of Chitin Attachment for the Environmental Persistence and Clinical Nature of the Human Pathogen Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Williams Tiffany C. , Ayrapetyan Mesrop , Oliver James D.
Published: December 2013

Vibrio vulnificus
naturally inhabits a variety of aquatic organisms, including oysters, and is the leading cause of seafood-related death in the United States. Strains of this bacterium are genetically classified into environmental (E) and clinical (C) genotypes, which correlate with source of isolation. E-genotype strains integrate into marine aggregates more efficiently than do C-genotype strains, leading to a greater uptake of strains of this genotype by oysters feeding on these aggregates. The causes of this increased integration of E-type strains into marine “snow” have not been demonstrated. Here, we further investigate the physiological and genetic causalities for this genotypic heterogeneity by examining the ability of strains of each genotype to attach to chitin, a major constituent of marine snow. We found that E-genotype strains attach to chitin with significantly greater efficiency than do C-genotype strains when incubated at 20°C. Type IV pili were implicated in chitin adherence, and even in the absence of chitin, the expression level of type IV pilin genes (
pilA
,
pilD
, and
mshA
) was found to be inherently higher by E genotypes than by C genotypes. In contrast, the level of expression of
N
-acetylglucosamine binding protein A (
gbpA
) was significantly higher in C-genotype strains. Interestingly, incubation at a clinically relevant temperature (37°C) resulted in a significant increase in C-genotype attachment to chitin, which subsequently provided a protective effect against exposure to acid or bile, thus offering a clue into their increased incidence in human infections. This study suggests that C- and E-genotype strains have intrinsically divergent physiological programs, which may help explain the observed differences in the ecology and pathogenic potential between these two genotypes.
Preventing type 2 diabetes among Palestinians: comparing five future policy scenarios
Authors: Abu-Rmeileh Niveen M E , Husseini Abdullatif , Capewell Simon , O'Flaherty Martin ,   on behalf of MEDCHAMPS project
Published: December 2013

Objective

This paper aims to provide estimates of future diabetes prevalence in the West Bank, occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), and to compare five future policy scenarios for diabetes prevention.

Design

We created and refined a mathematical Markov model that integrates population, obesity and smoking trends to estimate future diabetes prevalence. Model parameters were derived from the literature. Diabetes incidence was estimated using DISMOD software. We developed the model for the Palestinian population based on data available for the period 2000–2010, and validated the model by comparing predicted diabetes prevalence to subsequent actual observed diabetes prevalence rates.

Setting

West Bank oPt.

Results

Palestinian diabetes mellitus prevalence estimated by the model (for adults aged 25 or more) was 9.7% in 2000, increasing to 15.3% by 2010. Prevalence in men increased from 9.1% to 16.9% and in women from 10.2% to 13.6%. Comparisons of the model results with the observed prevalence in the Palestinian Family Health Survey showed a close fit. The model forecasts were 20.8% for 2020 and 23.4% for 2030. A 2.8% reduction in diabetes prevalence could be achieved if obesity trends start to decline by 5% in a 5-year period. If obesity prevalence was reduced by 35% in 10 years, as suggested by the WHO, diabetes prevalence might be decreased by 20%.

Conclusions

The model estimates an increase in the prevalence of diabetes which poses a large challenge to the health system. However, if bold but reasonable action is taken, effective interventions could reduce diabetes prevalence and hence the number of patients with diabetes.
Bristol girls dance project feasibility study: using a pilot economic evaluation to inform design of a full trial
Authors: Powell Jane E , Carroll Fran E , Sebire Simon J , Haase Anne M , Jago Russell
Published: December 2013

Background

There is currently little guidance for pilot trial economic evaluation where health outcomes and costs are influenced by a range of wider determinants and factors.

Objectives

This article presents the findings of a pilot economic evaluation study running alongside the Bristol Girls Dance Project (BGDP) feasibility study.

Design

3-arm, cluster randomised, controlled pilot trial and economic evaluation. 7 schools (n=210) from the Bristol and greater Bristol area, UK were randomly allocated to the intervention arm 3 schools (n=90) and the control arm 4 schools (n=120).

Intervention

Girls aged 11–12 years with parental consent were provided with two, 90 min dance sessions per week for 9 weeks at school facilities.

Economic outcome measures

Programme costs and girls’ preferences for attributes of dance and preferences for competing leisure time activities were measured.

Results

The mainstream average cost of the BGDP programme (not including research, control and dance teacher training costs) per school was $2126.40, £1329 and €1555 and per participant was $70.90, £44.31 and €51.84 in 2010–2011 prices. Discrete choice experiment (DCE) methods are acceptable to girls of this age indicating time available for other leisure activities on dance class days is the attribute girls valued most and 2 h leisure time remaining preferred to 3 h.

Conclusions

This pilot study indicates that providing full cost data for a future trial of the BGDP programme is feasible and practical. There is no evidence from preference data to support adjustment to intervention design. A future economic evaluation is likely to be successful utilising the resource use checklist developed. The importance of categorising separately resources used to develop, prepare, deliver and maintain the programme to estimate mainstream costs accurately is demonstrated.
Delivering dementia care differently—evaluating the differences and similarities between a specialist medical and mental health unit and standard acute care wards: a qualitative study of family carers’ perceptions of quality of care
Authors: Spencer Karen , Foster Pippa , Whittamore Kathy H , Goldberg Sarah E , Harwood Rowan H
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To examine in depth carers’ views and experiences of the delivery of patient care for people with dementia or delirium in an acute general hospital, in order to evaluate a specialist Medical and Mental Health Unit (MMHU) compared with standard hospital wards. This qualitative study complemented the quantitative findings of a randomised controlled trial.

Design

Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with carers of patients with cognitive impairment admitted to hospital over a 4-month period.

Setting

A specialist MMHU was developed in an English National Health Service acute hospital aiming to deliver the best-practice care. Specialist mental health staff were integrated with the ward team. All staff received enhanced training in dementia, delirium and person-centred care. A programme of purposeful therapeutic and leisure activities was introduced. The ward environment was optimised to improve patient orientation and independence. A proactive and inclusive approach to family carers was encouraged.

Participants

40 carers who had been recruited to a randomised controlled trial comparing the MMHU with standard wards.

Results

The main themes identified related closely to family carers’ met or unmet expectations and included activities and boredom, staff knowledge, dignity and fundamental care, the ward environment and communication between staff and carers. Carers from MMHU were aware of, and appreciated, improvements relating to activities, the ward environment and staff knowledge and skill in the appropriate management of dementia and delirium. However, communication and engagement of family carers were still perceived as insufficient.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the extent to which the MMHU succeeded in its goal of providing the best-practice care and improving carer experience, and where deficiencies remained. Neither setting was perceived as neither wholly good nor wholly bad; however, greater satisfaction (and less dissatisfaction) with care was experienced by carers from MMHU compared with standard care wards.
Optic pathway infarct after Onyx HD 500 aneurysm embolization: visual pathway ischemia from superior hypophyseal artery occlusion
Authors: Johnson Jeremiah Nicholas , Elhammady Mohamed , Post Judith , Pasol Joshua , Ebersole Koji , Aziz-Sultan Mohammad Ali
Published: December 2013

We report a case of visual deterioration after Onyx HD 500 embolization of a left 7 mm superior hypophyseal artery (SHA) aneurysm. After the procedure, the patient experienced a right incongruous homonymous hemianopia, and MRI showed an infarct of the ipsilateral optic chiasm/tract but no evidence of aneurysm mass effect or embolic cortical infarcts. The optic pathway ischemia is believed to be secondary to Onyx penetration and occlusion of an SHA branch near the aneurysm neck. Caution is advised when using liquid embolic agents to treat SHA aneurysms as SHA occlusion may lead to visual deficits.
INFLATION, INFLATION UNCERTAINTY AND OUTPUT GROWTH: RECENT EVIDENCE FROM ASEAN-5 COUNTRIES
Authors: MOHD SITI HAMIZAH , BAHARUMSHAH AHMAD ZUBAIDI , FOUNTAS STILIANOS
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the links between inflation, its uncertainty and economic growth in five ASEAN countries over the period 1980: Q1–2011: Q3. We rely on the Exponential GARCH (EGARCH) model to explore the causal relationship among the three variables. The major findings are: (i) inflation uncertainty increases more in response to positive inflation surprises than to negative surprises in all countries; (ii) inflationary shocks affect positively inflation uncertainty as predicted by the Friedman–Ball hypothesis; (iii) there is no evidence to suggest that inflation uncertainty causes inflation and; (iv) there is evidence that inflation affects growth negatively, both directly and indirectly (via the inflation uncertainty channel). The indirect effect is clearly stronger as it applies in all countries in the sample.
A Method Based on SMAA-Topsis for Stochastic Multi-Criteria Decision Making and a Real-World Application
Authors: Okul Deniz , Gencer Cevriye , Aydogan Emel Kizilkaya
Published: December 2013

Stochastic multi-criteria acceptability analysis (SMAA-2) and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) are methods for evaluating alternatives with multiple criteria. SMAA is a method that is used for solving multi-criteria decision-making problems with uncertain, inaccurate information, and does not require preference information from the decision makers. The TOPSIS method is based on the principle of determining a solution with the shortest distance to the ideal solution and the greatest distance from the negative-ideal solution. This paper proposes a new method, SMAA-TOPSIS, by combining the SMAA and TOPSIS methods. The SMAA-TOPSIS method was executed for two problems: drug benefit-risk analysis and machine gun selection. This paper found that TOPSIS could be used with uncertain and arbitrarily distributed values for weights and criteria measurements by using a combination of SMAA and TOPSIS. Also, we obtained clearer and consistent SMAA outputs.
Cardiac function of the naked mole-rat: ecophysiological responses to working underground
Authors: Grimes Kelly M. , Voorhees Andrew , Chiao Ying Ann , Han Hai-Chao , Lindsey Merry L. , Buffenstein Rochelle
Published: December 2013

The naked mole-rat (NMR) is a strictly subterranean rodent with a low resting metabolic rate. Nevertheless, it can greatly increase its metabolic activity to meet the high energetic demands associated with digging through compacted soils in its xeric natural habitat where food is patchily distributed. We hypothesized that the NMR heart would naturally have low basal function and exhibit a large cardiac reserve, thereby mirroring the species' low basal metabolism and large metabolic scope. Echocardiography showed that young (2–4 yr old) healthy NMRs have low fractional shortening (28 ± 2%), ejection fraction (43 ± 2%), and cardiac output (6.5 ± 0.4 ml/min), indicating low basal cardiac function. Histology revealed large NMR cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area (216 ± 10 μm2) and cardiac collagen deposition of 2.2 ± 0.4%. Neither of these histomorphometric traits was considered pathological, since biaxial tensile testing showed no increase in passive ventricular stiffness. NMR cardiomyocyte fibers showed a low degree of rotation, contributing to the observed low NMR cardiac contractility. Interestingly, when the exercise mimetic dobutamine (3 μg/g ip) was administered, NMRs showed pronounced increases in fractional shortening, ejection fraction, cardiac output, and stroke volume, indicating an increased cardiac reserve. The relatively low basal cardiac function and enhanced cardiac reserve of NMRs are likely to be ecophysiological adaptations to life in an energetically taxing environment.
Design and Functional Testing of a Multichamber Perfusion Platform for Three‐Dimensional Scaffolds
Authors: Piola Marco , Soncini Monica , Cantini Marco , Sadr Nasser , Ferrario Giulio , Fiore Gianfranco B.
Published: December 2013

Perfusion culture systems are widely used in tissue engineering applications for enhancing cell culture viability in the core of three‐dimensional scaffolds. In this work, we present a multichamber confined‐flow perfusion system, designed to provide a straightforward platform for three‐dimensional dynamic cell cultures. The device comprises 6 culture chambers allowing independent and simultaneous experiments in controlled conditions. Each chamber consists of three parts: a housing, a deformable scaffold‐holder cartridge, and a 7 mL reservoir, which couples water‐tightly with the housing compressing the cartridge. Short‐term dynamic cell seeding experiments were carried out with MC3T3‐E1 cells seeded into polycaprolactone porous scaffolds. Preliminary results revealed that the application of flow perfusion through the scaffold favored the penetration of the cells to its interior, producing a more homogeneous distribution of cells with respect to dropwise or injection seeding methods. The culture chamber layout was conceived with the aim of simplifying the user operations under laminar flow hood and minimizing the risks for contamination during handling and operation. Furthermore, a compact size, a small number of components, and the use of bayonet couplings ensured a simple, fast, and sterility‐promoting assembling. Finally, preliminary in vitro tests proved the efficacy of the system in enhancing cell seeding efficiency, opening the way for further studies addressing long‐term scaffold colonization.
Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Activities of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Fezai Myriam , Senovilla Laura , Jemaà Mohamed , Ben-Attia Mossadok
Published: December 2013

Background. In folk medicine, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is used as a remedy for a variety of diseases. This study investigates thein vivoantinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects of EVOO on mice and rats.Materials and Methods. In this experimental study, using the acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin tests in mice, the analgesic effect of EVOO was evaluated. Acetylsalicylic acid and morphine were used as standard drugs, respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was investigated by means of the carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats using acetylsalicylic acid and dexamethasone as standard drugs. Last, the xenograft model in athymic mice was used to evaluate the anticancer effectin vivo.Results. EVOO significantly decreased acetic acid-induced abdominal writhes and reduces acute and inflammatory pain in the two phases of the formalin test. It has also a better effect than Dexamethasone in the anti-inflammatory test. Finally, the intraperitoneal administration of EVOO affects the growth of HCT 116 tumours xenografted in athymic mice.Conclusion. EVOO has a significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. However, further detailed studies are required to determine the active component responsible for these effects and mechanism pathway.
Minimizing the Makespan for Scheduling Problems with General Deterioration Effects
Authors: Yu Xianyu , Zhang Yulin , Huang Kai
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the scheduling problems with general deterioration models. By the deterioration models, the actual processing time functions of jobs depend not only on the scheduled position in the job sequence but also on the total weighted normal processing times of the jobs already processed. In this paper, the objective is to minimize the makespan. For the single-machine scheduling problems with general deterioration effects, we show that the considered problems are polynomially solvable. For the flow shop scheduling problems with general deterioration effects, we also show that the problems can be optimally solved in polynomial time under the proposed conditions.
Investigations on the Antifungal Effect of Nerol against Aspergillus flavus Causing Food Spoilage
Authors: Tian Jun , Zeng Xiaobin , Zeng Hong , Feng Zhaozhong , Miao Xiangmin , Peng Xue
Published: December 2013

The antifungal efficacy of nerol (NEL) has been proved against Aspergillus flavus by using in vitro and in vivo tests. The mycelial growth of A. flavus was completely inhibited at concentrations of 0.8 μL/mL and 0.1 μL/mL NEL in the air at contact and vapor conditions, respectively. The NEL also had an evident inhibitory effect on spore germination in A. flavus along with NEL concentration as well as time‐dependent kinetic inhibition. The NEL presented noticeable inhibition on dry mycelium weight and synthesis of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) by A. flavus, totally restraining AFB1 production at 0.6 μL/mL. In real food system, the efficacy of the NEL on resistance to decay development in cherry tomatoes was investigated in vivo by exposing inoculated and control fruit groups to NEL vapor at different concentration. NEL vapors at 0.1 μL/mL air concentration significantly reduced artificially contaminated A. flavus and a broad spectrum of fungal microbiota. Results obtained from presented study showed that the NEL had a great antifungal activity and could be considered as a benefit and safe tool to control food spoilage.
Traditional Coping Strategies and Disaster Response: Examples from the South Pacific Region
Authors: Fletcher Stephanie M. , Thiessen Jodi , Gero Anna , Rumsey Michele , Kuruppu Natasha , Willetts Juliet
Published: December 2013

The Pacific Islands are vulnerable to climate change and increased risk of disasters not only because of their isolated and often low lying geographical setting but because of their economic status which renders them reliant on donor support. In a qualitative study exploring the adaptive capacity of Pacific Island Countries (PICs) across four countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, and Vanuatu, it was clear that traditional coping strategies are consistently being applied as part of response to disasters and climate changes. This paper describes five common strategies employed in PICs as understood through this research: recognition of traditional methods; faith and religious beliefs; traditional governance and leadership; family and community involvement; and agriculture and food security. While this study does not trial the efficacy of these methods, it provides an indication of what methods are being used and therefore a starting point for further research into which of these traditional strategies are beneficial. These findings also provide important impetus for Pacific Island governments to recognise traditional approaches in their disaster preparedness and response processes.
Clinical Significance of AFP and PIVKA-II Responses for Monitoring Treatment Outcomes and Predicting Prognosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Park Hana , Park Jun Yong
Published: December 2013

Aim. Recently, the utility of tumor markers in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) field has received a good deal of attention. Here, we review and summarize the results of studies on the roles played by theα-fetoprotein (AFP) and prothrombin induced by the absence of vitamin K or antagonist-II (PIVKA-II) responses in terms of the monitoring of outcomes and prediction of prognosis after various HCC treatments.Methods. Studies lodged in PUBMED and that satisfied our inclusion criteria were reviewed.Results. We reviewed 12 studies measuring both AFP and PIVKA-II responses in HCC patients treated in various ways. The results are presented by treatment modality.Conclusion. Measurement of AFP and PIVKA II marker levels before and after HCC treatment is clinically useful in monitoring of treatment outcomes and prognosis and in predicting recurrence and survival.
Stability of a Lipase Extracted from Seeds of Pachira aquatica in Commercial Detergents and Application Tests in Poultry Wastewater Pretreatment and Fat Particle Hydrolysis
Authors: Polizelli Patrícia Peres , Facchini Fernanda Dell Antonio , Bonilla-Rodriguez Gustavo Orlando
Published: December 2013

A protein extract containing a plant lipase from oleaginous seeds of Pachira aquatica was tested using soybean oil, wastewater from a poultry processing plant, and beef fat particles as substrate. The hydrolysis experiments were carried out at a temperature of 40°C, an incubation time of 90 minutes, and pH 8.0-9.0. The enzyme had the best stability at pH 9.0 and showed good stability in the alkaline range. It was found that P. aquatica lipase was stable in the presence of some commercial laundry detergent formulations, and it retained full activity up to 0.35% in hydrogen peroxide, despite losing activity at higher concentrations. Concerning wastewater, the lipase increased free fatty acids release by 7.4 times and promoted the hydrolysis of approximately 10% of the fats, suggesting that it could be included in a pretreatment stage, especially for vegetable oil degradation.
Uncommon Cause of Paradoxical Embolism in a Case of Scimitar Syndrome
Authors: Alabi Fortune O. , Umeh Fred , Lama Maximo , Christian Francis G.
Published: December 2013

Scimitar syndrome, a rare congenital cardiopulmonary condition, presents in both pediatric and adult populations as an anomalous pulmonary venous return of most of the right lung to the inferior vena cava. Recently, asymptomatic adult cases have been diagnosed with advances in imaging studies. We report the case of an asymptomatic 43-year-old male, with a complex variant scimitar syndrome diagnosed by computed tomographic angiography.
Optimization of Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Leaf Extracts of Pimenta dioica (Allspice)
Authors: Geetha Akshay Rajeev , George Elizabeth , Srinivasan Akshay , Shaik Jameel
Published: December 2013

Production of silver nanoparticles from the leaf extracts of Pimenta dioica is reported for the first time in this paper. Three different sets of leaves were utilized for the synthesis of nanoparticles—fresh, hot‐air oven dried, and sun‐dried. These nanoparticles were characterized using UV‐Vis spectroscopy and AFM. The results were diverse in that different sizes were seen for different leaf conditions. Nanoparticles synthesized using sun‐dried leaves (produced using a particular ratio (1 : 0.5) of the leaf extract sample and silver nitrate (1 mM), resp.) possessed the smallest sizes. We believe that further optimization of the current green‐synthesis method would help in the production of monodispersed silver nanoparticles having great potential in treating several diseases.
Influence of Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene on Mice Testicular Germ Cells during Spermatogenesis
Authors: Jeng Hueiwang Anna , Bocca Silvina M.
Published: December 2013

The objective of this study was to assess the toxicological effect of exposure to benzo(a)pyrene, B[a]P, on germ cells during spermatogenesis. Mice were exposed to B[a]P at 1, 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day for 30 days via oral ingestion. Germ cells, including spermatogonia, spermatocytes, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatids, were recovered from testes of mice exposed to B[a]P, while mature spermatozoa were isolated from vas deferens. Reproductive organs were collected and weighed. Apoptotic response of germ cells and mature spermatozoa were qualified using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated deoxy-UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. B[a]P exposure at ≤10 mg/kg/day for 30 days did not significantly alter concentrations of germ cells and mature spermatozoa and apoptotic response in germ cells and mature spermatozoa. Exposure to B[a]P at 50 and 100 mg/kg/day induced testicular atrophy and yielded a significant reduction in the concentrations of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, pachytene spermatocytes, and round spermatid cells as compared with the control. Also, mature spermatozoa experienced decreased concentrations and viability. B[a]P-exposed mice experienced a significant increase in apoptotic germ cells as compared to the control mice. However, the mice dose concentrations were not relevant for comparison to human exposure.
Start-Up Characteristics of a Granule-Based Anammox UASB Reactor Seeded with Anaerobic Granular Sludge
Authors: Xiong Lei , Wang Yun-Yan , Tang Chong-Jian , Chai Li-Yuan , Xu Kang-Que , Song Yu-Xia , Ali Mohammad , Zheng Ping
Published: December 2013

The granulation of anammox sludge plays an important role in the high nitrogen removal performance of the anammox reactor. In this study, anaerobic granular sludge was selected as the seeding sludge to start up anammox reactor in order to directly obtain anammox granules. Results showed that the anammox UASB reactor was successfully started up by inoculating anaerobic granular sludge, with substrate capacity of 4435.2 mg/(L·d) and average ammonium and nitrite removal efficiency of 90.36% and 93.29%, respectively. During the start-up course, the granular sludge initially disintegrated and then reaggregated and turned red, suggesting the high anammox performance. Zn-Fe precipitation was observed on the surface of granules during the operation by SEM-EDS, which would impose inhibition to the anammox activity of the granules. Accordingly, it is suggested to relatively reduce the trace metals concentrations, of Fe and Zn in the conventional medium. The findings of this study are expected to be used for a shorter start-up and more stable operation of anammox system.
Association of Iron Depletion with Menstruation and Dietary Intake Indices in Pubertal Girls: The Healthy Growth Study
Authors: Moschonis George , Papandreou Dimitrios , Mavrogianni Christina , Giannopoulou Angeliki , Damianidi Louisa , Malindretos Pavlos , Lionis Christos , Chrousos George P. , Manios Yannis
Published: December 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the associations of iron depletion (ID) with menstrual blood losses, lifestyle, and dietary habits, in pubertal girls. The study sample comprised 1222 girls aged 9–13 years old. Biochemical, anthropometrical, dietary, clinical, and physical activity data were collected. Out of 274 adolescent girls with menses, 33.5% were found to be iron depleted (defined as serum ferritin < 12 μg/L) compared to 15.9% out of 948 girls without menses. Iron-depleted girls without menses were found to have lower consumption of poultry (P=0.017) and higher consumption of fruits (P=0.044) and fast food (P=0.041) compared to their peers having normal iron status. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that girls with menses were 2.57 (95% CI: 1.37, 4.81) times more likely of being iron depleted compared to girls with no menses. Iron depletion was found to be associated with high calcium intake, high consumption of fast foods, and low consumption of poultry and fruits. Menses was the only factor that was found to significantly increase the likelihood of ID in these girls. More future research is probably needed in order to better understand the role of diet and menses in iron depletion.
Sensing Heavy Metals Using Mesoporous‐Based Optical Chemical Sensors
Authors: Korent Urek Špela , Frančič Nina , Turel Matejka , Lobnik Aleksandra
Published: December 2013

Heavy metal pollution is one of the more serious environmental problems; therefore, there is a constant demand for the development of new analytical tools for its monitoring. An optical chemical sensor represents a good alternative to classical instrumental methods. The mesoporous materials used in optical chemical sensors’ fabrications have properties such as high porosity, exceptional adsorption capacity, tuneable 3D shape, geometry, and morphology, which enable improved limit of detection, response time, and selectivity properties of optical sensors. In this review, we firstly present the properties of mesoporous materials, provide a brief description of sensing mechanisms, and briefly discuss the importance of continuous monitoring. Recent advances in those mesoporous silica‐based optical sensors used for heavy metal detection have been reported and their advantages and limitations also discussed. This review covers publications that have appeared since 2008.
Grateloupia tenuisWang et Luan sp. nov. (Halymeniaceae, Rhodophyta): A New Species from South China Sea Based on Morphological Observation andrbcL Gene Sequences Analysis
Authors: Yu Ling , Wang Hongwei , Luan Rixiao
Published: December 2013

Grateloupia tenuisWang et Luan sp. nov. is a new species described from Lingshui, Hainan Province, South China Sea. Based on the external form and internal structure, combined withrbcL gene sequence analysis,Grateloupia tenuisis distinct from otherGrateloupiaspecies as follows: (1) thalli is slippery and cartilaginous in texture; possess fewer branches, relatively slight main axes, and two or three dichotomous branches; (2) cortex is 5-6 layers; medulla is solid when young, but hollow in old branches; reproductive structures are dispersed in main axes of thalli and lower portions of branchlets; exhibitsGrateloupia-type auxiliary cell ampullae; (3) the four studiedG. tenuissequences were positioned in a largeGrateloupiaclade of Halymeniaceae, which included sister group generitypeG. filicinawith 68 bp differences;G. tenuiswas determined to be a sister taxon to theG. catenata,G. ramosissima,G. orientalis, andG. filiformissubclade. The pairwise distances betweenG. tenuisand these species were 39 to 50 bp. The sequences ofG. tenuisdiffered by 81–108 bp from the sequences of other samples inGrateloupia; there are 114–133 bp changes betweenG. tenuisand other genera of Halymeniaceae. In final analysis, we consideredGrateloupia tenuisWang et Luan sp. nov. to be a new species of genusGrateloupia.