bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health behaviours associated with indoor tanning based on the 2012/13 Manitoba Youth Health Survey
Authors: Harland E. , Griffith J. , Lu H. , Erickson T. , Magsino K.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Although indoor tanning causes cancer, it remains relatively common
among adolescents. Little is known about indoor tanning prevalence and habits in
Canada, and even less about associated behaviours. This study explores the prevalence
of adolescent indoor tanning in Manitoba and its association with other demographic
characteristics and health behaviours.

Methods

We conducted secondary analyses of the 2012/13 Manitoba Youth
Health Survey data collected from Grade 7 to 12 students (n = 64 174) and examined
associations between indoor tanning (whether participants had ever used artificial
tanning equipment) and 25 variables. Variables with statistically significant associations
to indoor tanning were tested for collinearity and grouped based on strong associations.
For each group of highly associated variables, the variable with the greatest effect upon
indoor tanning was placed into the final logistic regression model. Separate analyses
were conducted for males and females to better understand sex-based differences, and
analyses were adjusted for age.

Results

Overall, 4% of male and 9% of female students reported indoor tanning, and
prevalence increased with age. Relationships between indoor tanning and other
variables were similar for male and female students. Binary logistic regression models
indicated that several variables significantly predicted indoor tanning, including having
part-time work, being physically active, engaging in various risk behaviours such as
driving after drinking for males and unplanned sex after alcohol/drugs for females,
experiencing someone say something bad about one’s body shape/size/appearance,
identifying as trans or with another gender, consuming creatine/other supplements
and, for females only, never/rarely using sun protection.

Conclusion

Indoor tanning among adolescents was associated with age, part-time work,
physical activity and many consumption behaviours and lifestyle risk factors. Though
legislation prohibiting adolescent indoor tanning is critical, health promotion to discourage
indoor tanning may be most beneficial if it also addresses these associated factors.
‘Dirty little secret’: Journalism, privacy and the case of Sharleen Spiteri
Authors: Morton Tom
Published: March 2017

In both the Australian and British debates about media ethics and accountability, a key question about the News of the World phone-hacking scandal was whether or not the law should provide stronger protection for individuals from invasion of their privacy by news organisations. There is no explicit reference to privacy in the terms of reference of either Britain’s Leveson or Australia’s Finkelstein inquiries. It can safely be said, however, that invasions of personal privacy by NOTW journalists were an important element in the political atmospherics which lead to their establishment. This article also asks where that dividing line should be drawn. However, it approaches the issue of privacy from a rather different perspective, drawing on a case study from relatively recent history involving Sharleen Spiteri, an HIV+ sex worker who caused a national scandal when she appeared on television in Australia in 1989 and revealed that she sometimes had unprotected sex with her clients.
REVIEW: Everybody's uncle
Authors: Oosterman Allison
Published: March 2017

Review of: Scrim – the man with a mike, by William Renwick. Wellington: Victoria University Press, 2011, 308 pp. ISBN 978-0864736956Biography is currently one of the most popular literary genres but New Zealand writers seem to choose their subjects from quite a narrow range of sportsmen and military figures. Few have chosen to write about historic media individuals. The last one I recall was Facing the Music: Charles Baeyertz and the Triad, by Joanna Woods (2008).Renwick sets out to put the record straight on some of the myths surrrounding this controversial broadcaster, a methodist minister, whose Friendly Road sessions on provate radio 1ZR in the 1930s made him one of the most popular men in the country.
Investigation of Non-covalent Interactions of Metal Complexes with DNA in Cell-free Systems
Authors: Erxleben Andrea
Published: March 2017

Non-covalent interactions of metallo compounds with DNA range from the simple, unspecific electrostatic binding of a positively charged metal complex to the sequence-selective recognition of DNA binding sites due to shape, size, symmetry and hydrogen bonding complementarity of a rationally
designed system. Metal complexes that recognize and target specific DNA sequences or particular structures are of considerable interest as therapeutics, diagnostics or structural probes. To gain molecular level insight into DNA–metal complex interactions, binding studies are carried
out in cell-free systems using isolated DNA or short oligonucleotides. For this, a powerful toolbox of complementary spectroscopic and biophysical techniques is available. This review focuses on the most frequently applied spectroscopic methods; UV/Vis, CD, LD, fluorescence emission and NMR
spectroscopy and is aimed at giving the reader an overview of the qualitative and/or quantitative information that can be obtained. After a short introduction into DNA structures and non-covalent metal complex–DNA interactions, each spectroscopic method will be discussed. In the last
section a few selected studies will be described as illustrative examples for the potential of the various spectroscopic methods.
Metabolic Profiling of Cells in Response to Drug Treatment using 1H High-resolution Magic Angle Spinning (HR-MAS) NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Vermathen Martina , Diserens Gaëlle , Vermathen Peter , Furrer Julien
Published: March 2017

High-resolution magic angle spinning (HR-MAS) is an NMR technique that provides access to well resolved liquid-like 1H NMR spectra of semi-solid samples. Therefore, 1H HR-MAS NMR spectroscopy has become an important tool for the direct analysis of biological samples
such as tissues and cells in a mostly non-destructive way. Here, we focus on the application of HR-MAS NMR combined with multivariate statistical methods used for metabolic profiling of cells and in particular for the study of cellular metabolic responses to drug exposure. The principles of
HR-MAS and the metabolomic approach are briefly described. As an example, a study on the metabolic response of different cell types towards treatment with a highly cytotoxic hexacationic ruthenium metallaprism as potential anti-cancer drug is presented. Specific metabolites and metabolic pathways
are suggested to be associated with the cellular response. The study demonstrates the potential of HR-MAS metabolomics applied to cells for addressing the intracellular processes involved in the treatment with organometallic drugs.
Food intake and Physical activity of Hemodialysis Patient Undergoing Treatment at National Kidney Center, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Baniya Bhupal , Joshi Hari Shankar , Regmi Sanjeev , Dhungel Kshitiz Upadhyay
Published: March 2017

Background and Objectives: Nutrition has been an integral part of medical management in CKD patient in which total food and protein intake plays vital role in survival rate of patient. This study was done to investigate the nutritional status, food intake and physical activity level of hemodialysis patient for the period of three month in National Kidney center in Kathmandu. Materials and Methods: Quantitative descriptive method was applied for the collection of data from 80 patients undergoing hemodialysis in National kidney center, Kathmandu. The data so obtained was further analyzed by using SPSS 16 version software and Microsoft excel sheet.Discussion: The BMI result of sample population underdoing hemodialysis showed that 12% of them were underweight, 9% were overweight, 57% were in normal range and 1% were obese. Similarly 42.5% of sample population were involved in some kind of physical activity where as 57.5% of the patient were not involved in any sort of physical activity. On the other hand, 52.5% of MHD patient did not follow the instruction provided in food chart and only 47.5% patient consume food according to diet chart. Conclusion: The patient should be provided nutritional counseling before starting dialysis so that nutritional challenges could be reduced. As poor nutritional intake, Socio economic barrier, low physical activity level etc. are major problem of dialysis patient.Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2016) Vol. 4 (1): 33-40
Overlay Tester Results from Dense-Graded Asphalt Concrete Mixes: Accuracy in Characterizing Crack Susceptibility
Authors: Garcia Victor M. , Garibay Jose , Abdallah Imad , Nazarian Soheil
Published: March 2017

Several highway agencies have either implemented or considered implementing laboratory performance tests to estimate the cracking potential of asphalt concrete (AC) mixes during the mix design process. One such popular test, the overlay tester (OT), measures the number of cycles to failure of specimens that are caused by the repeated application of deformation. The major concern about using this test as a reliable characterization of the cracking susceptibility of AC mixes, especially for dense-graded mixtures, is the variability in the specified number of cycles to failure in the performance index. The main objective of this paper is to report a means for improving the consistency of the OT test results on dense-graded AC mixes. An assessment of a specimen preparation process that can yield more consistent results was conducted. The consistency of the traditional number of cycles to failure as well as of the load–displacement response and load reduction curves was investigated by using a modified specimen preparation process. The repeatability of alternative performance indexes, such as the critical fracture energy and crack progression rate, that can be measured from the OT test was also investigated and compared with that of the index for the number of cycles to failure. This study indicated that the raw data from the OT test seemed to be repeatable if the proposed specimen preparation process was consistently followed. Alternative performance indexes that yielded an acceptable degree of repeatability may be readily implemented in the OT test to assess the cracking characteristics of AC mixes.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Ocotillol-Type Metabolites Derived from (20R)-Protopanaxadiol
Authors: Liu Zhi , Xu Yangrong , An Xingsi , Yang Jingjing , Meng Qingguo , Hou Guige
Published: March 2017

Four ocotillol-type (20R)-protopanaxadiol metabolites, (20R,24S)-20,24-epoxy-12β,25-dihydroxdammaran-3-one (M3), and (20R,24R)-20,24-epoxy-12β,25-dihydroxydammarane-3-one (M4), (20R,24S)-20,24-epoxy-3β,25-dihydroxydammaran-12-one (M9) and (20R,24R)-20,24-epoxy-3β,25-dihydroxydammaran-12-one (M10) are synthesised from (20R)-protopanaxadiol. Their structures are confirmed by HRMS, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. Moreover, the absolute configurations of M3 and M4 are confirmed by the X-ray single crystal diffraction.
The Consistent Hexameric Paddle-Wheel Crystallisation Motif of a Family of 2,4-Bis(n-Alkylamino)Nitrobenzenes: Alkyl = Pentyl, Hexyl, Heptyl and Octyl
Authors: Plater M. John , Harrison William T.A. , de los Toyos Laura M. Machado , Hendry Lewis
Published: March 2017

Three examples of 2,4-bis(n-alkylamino)nitrobenzenes have been crystallised (alkyl = pentyl, hexyl and heptyl) and the single crystal structures were determined. The three structures are similar and adopt a cyclic hydrogen bonded hexameric motif. n-Octyl alkyl chains prevented a crystal structure determination owing to disorder.
Does a 4–6 Week Shoeing Interval Promote Optimal Foot Balance in the Working Equine?
Authors: Leśniak Kirsty , Williams Jane , Kuznik Kerry , Douglas Peter
Published: March 2017

Variation in equine hoof conformation between farriery interventions lacks research, despite associations with distal limb injuries. This study aimed to determine linear and angular hoof variations pre- and post-farriery within a four to six week shoeing/trimming interval. Seventeen hoof and distal limb measurements were drawn from lateral and anterior digital photographs from 26 horses pre- and post-farriery. Most lateral view variables changed significantly. Reductions of the dorsal wall, and weight bearing and coronary band lengths resulted in an increased vertical orientation of the hoof. The increased dorsal hoof wall angle, heel angle, and heel height illustrated this further, improving dorsopalmar alignment. Mediolateral measurements of coronary band and weight bearing lengths reduced, whilst medial and lateral wall lengths from the 2D images increased, indicating an increased vertical hoof alignment. Additionally, dorsopalmar balance improved. However, the results demonstrated that a four to six week interval is sufficient for a palmer shift in the centre of pressure, increasing the loading on acutely inclined heels, altering DIP angulation, and increasing the load on susceptible structures (e.g., DDFT). Mediolateral variable asymmetries suit the lateral hoof landing and unrollment pattern of the foot during landing. The results support regular (four to six week) farriery intervals for the optimal prevention of excess loading of palmar limb structures, reducing long-term injury risks through cumulative, excessive loading.
Fouling in Membrane Distillation, Osmotic Distillation and Osmotic Membrane Distillation
Authors: Laqbaqbi Mourad , Sanmartino Julio , Khayet Mohamed , García-Payo Carmen , Chaouch Mehdi
Published: March 2017

Various membrane separation processes are being used for seawater desalination and treatment of wastewaters in order to deal with the worldwide water shortage problem. Different types of membranes of distinct morphologies, structures and physico-chemical characteristics are employed. Among the considered membrane technologies, membrane distillation (MD), osmotic distillation (OD) and osmotic membrane distillation (OMD) use porous and hydrophobic membranes for production of distilled water and/or concentration of wastewaters for recovery and recycling of valuable compounds. However, the efficiency of these technologies is hampered by fouling phenomena. This refers to the accumulation of organic/inorganic deposits including biological matter on the membrane surface and/or in the membrane pores. Fouling in MD, OD and OMD differs from that observed in electric and pressure-driven membrane processes such electrodialysis (ED), membrane capacitive deionization (MCD), reverse osmosis (RO), nanofiltration (NF), ultrafiltration (UF), microfiltration (MF), etc. Other than pore blockage, fouling in MD, OD and OMD increases the risk of membrane pores wetting and reduces therefore the quantity and quality of the produced water or the concentration efficiency of the process. This review deals with the observed fouling phenomena in MD, OD and OMD. It highlights different detected fouling types (organic fouling, inorganic fouling and biofouling), fouling characterization techniques as well as various methods of fouling reduction including pretreatment, membrane modification, membrane cleaning and antiscalants application.
Lagrangian Trajectories to Predict the Formation of Population Heterogeneity in Large-Scale Bioreactors
Authors: Kuschel Maike , Siebler Flora , Takors Ralf
Published: March 2017

Successful scale-up of bioprocesses requires that laboratory-scale performance is equally achieved during large-scale production to meet economic constraints. In industry, heuristic approaches are often applied, making use of physical scale-up criteria that do not consider cellular needs or properties. As a consequence, large-scale productivities, conversion yields, or product purities are often deteriorated, which may prevent economic success. The occurrence of population heterogeneity in large-scale production may be the reason for underperformance. In this study, an in silico method to predict the formation of population heterogeneity by combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with a cell cycle model of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 was developed. The glucose gradient and flow field of a 54,000 L stirred tank reactor were generated with the Euler approach, and bacterial movement was simulated as Lagrange particles. The latter were statistically evaluated using a cell cycle model. Accordingly, 72% of all cells were found to switch between standard and multifork replication, and 10% were likely to undergo massive, transcriptional adaptations to respond to extracellular starving conditions. At the same time, 56% of all cells replicated very fast, with µ ≥ 0.3 h−1 performing multifork replication. The population showed very strong heterogeneity, as indicated by the observation that 52.9% showed higher than average adenosine triphosphate (ATP) maintenance demands (12.2%, up to 1.5 fold). These results underline the potential of CFD linked to structured cell cycle models for predicting large-scale heterogeneity in silico and ab initio.
The Many Classical Faces of Quantum Structures
Authors: Heunen Chris
Published: March 2017

Interpretational problems with quantum mechanics can be phrased precisely by only talking about empirically accessible information. This prompts a mathematical reformulation of quantum mechanics in terms of classical mechanics. We survey this programme in terms of algebraic quantum theory.
Spatial and Temporal Variability Patterns of the Urban Heat Island in São Paulo
Authors: Silva Fernanda , Longo Karla , De Andrade Felipe
Published: March 2017

The spatial and temporal variability patterns of the urban heat island (UHI) in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo (MASP) were investigated using hourly temperature observations for a 10-year period from January 2002 to December 2011. The empirical orthogonal function (EOF) and cluster analysis (CA) techniques for multivariate analysis were used to determine the dominant modes of UHI variability and to identify the homogeneity between the temperature observations in the MASP. The EOF method was used to obtain the spatial patterns (T-mode EOF) and to define temporal variability (S-mode EOF). In the T-mode, three main modes of variability were recognized. The first EOF explained 66.7% of the total variance in the air temperature, the second explained 24.0%, and the third explained 7.8%. The first and third EOFs were associated with wind movement in the MASP. The second EOF was considered the most important mode and was found to be related to the level of urbanization in the MASP, the release of heat stored in the urban canopy and the release of heat by anthropogenic sources, thus representing the UHI pattern in the MASP. In the S-mode, two modes of variability were found. The first EOF explained 49.4% of the total variance in the data, and the second explained 30.9%. In the S-mode, the first EOF represented the spatial pattern of the UHI and was similar to the second EOF in the T-mode. CA resulted in the identification of six homogeneous groups corresponding to the EOF patterns observed. The standard UHI according to the scale and annual seasons for the period from 2002 to 2010 presented maximum values between 14:00 and 16:00 local time (LT) and minimum values between 07:00 and 09:00 LT. Seasonal analysis revealed that spring had the highest maximum and minimum UHI values relative to the other seasons.
Demand and Signing of General Practitioner Contract Service among the Urban Elderly: A Population-Based Analysis in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zhao Yanrong , Lin Junfen , Qiu Yinwei , Yang Qing , Wang Xinyi , Shang Xiaopeng , Xu Xiaoping
Published: March 2017

This study aims to examine whether the urban elderly in the Zhejiang Province of China signed contracts with their general practitioner (GP) based on their health service needs, and to further identify the determinants of their demand and signing decisions. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 16 community health service (CHS) institutions in Zhejiang Province, China. The urban elderly over 60 years of age were enrolled when visiting the sampled CHS. Baseline characteristics were compared between participants using Chi-Square tests for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify determinants of the GP contract service demand and signing decisions, respectively. Among the 1440 urban elderly, 56.67% had signed contracts with their GP, and 55.35% had a demand of the GP contract service. The influencing factors of demand were a history of diabetes or cardiovascular disease (OR = 1.33, 95% CI, 1.05–1.68); urban resident basic medical insurance (URBMI) vs. urban employee basic medical insurance (UEBMI) (OR = 1.96, 95% CI, 1.46–2.61); and middle-income vs. low-income (OR = 0.67, 95% CI, 0.50–0.90 for RMB 1001–3000; OR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.39–0.90 for RMB 3001–5000). Having a demand for the GP contract service was the strongest determinant of signing decisions (OR = 13.20, 95% CI, 10.09–17.27). Other factors also contributed to these decisions, including gender, caregiver, and income. The urban elderly who had signed contracts with GPs were mainly based on their health care needs. Elderly people with a history of diabetes or cardiovascular disease, as well as those with URBMI, were found to have stronger needs of a GP contract service. It is believed that the high-income elderly should be given equal priority to those of low-income.
Influence of MTHFR Genetic Background on p16 and MGMT Methylation in Oral Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: Ferlazzo Nadia , Currò Monica , Zinellu Angelo , Caccamo Daniela , Isola Gaetano , Ventura Valeria , Carru Ciriaco , Matarese Giovanni , Ientile Riccardo
Published: March 2017

Genetic polymorphisms of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme may influence DNA methylation. Alterations in DNA methylation patterns of genes involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, DNA repair, cell adherence and metastasis process are known to contribute to cancer development. In this study, the influence of the MTHFR C677T and A1298C gene polymorphisms on global DNA methylation and site-specific methylation on p16 and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoters was investigated in patients with oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC). To this aim, methylation studies were carried out by using genomic DNA isolated from saliva samples of 58 OSCC patients and 90 healthy controls. The frequency of the CT/AC and TT/AA genotypes was significantly higher in patients than in controls. Whereas no difference in global DNA methylation levels was observed between patients and controls, a higher frequency of methylation at both p16 and MGMT gene promoters was detected in patients compared with controls. A significant association between MTHFR gene polymorphisms and p16 and MGMT gene promoter methylation was found. The frequency of p16 and MGMT methylation was around 60% in patients with either the CT/AC or TT/AA genotype. Our results suggest that hypermethylation of cancer-related genes may be affected by MTHFR polymorphisms.
Methylmercury Induced Neurotoxicity and the Influence of Selenium in the Brains of Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Rasinger Josef , Lundebye Anne-Katrine , Penglase Samuel , Ellingsen Ståle , Amlund Heidi
Published: March 2017

The neurotoxicity of methylmercury (MeHg) is well characterised, and the ameliorating effects of selenium have been described. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms behind this contaminant-nutrient interaction. We investigated the influence of selenium (as selenomethionine, SeMet) and MeHg on mercury accumulation and protein expression in the brain of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Fish were fed diets containing elevated levels of MeHg and/or SeMet in a 2 × 2 full factorial design for eight weeks. Mercury concentrations were highest in the brain tissue of MeHg-exposed fish compared to the controls, whereas lower levels of mercury were found in the brain of zebrafish fed both MeHg and SeMet compared with the fish fed MeHg alone. The expression levels of proteins associated with gap junction signalling, oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial dysfunction were significantly (p < 0.05) altered in the brain of zebrafish after exposure to MeHg and SeMet alone or in combination. Analysis of upstream regulators indicated that these changes were linked to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, which were activated by MeHg and inhibited by SeMet, possibly through a reactive oxygen species mediated differential activation of RICTOR, the rapamycin-insensitive binding partner of mTOR.
Another Look at Pyrroloiminoquinone Alkaloids—Perspectives on Their Therapeutic Potential from Known Structures and Semisynthetic Analogues
Authors: Lin Sheng , McCauley Erin , Lorig-Roach Nicholas , Tenney Karen , Naphen Cassandra , Yang Ai-Mei , Johnson Tyler , Hernadez Thalia , Rattan Ramandeep , Valeriote Frederick , Crews Phillip
Published: March 2017

This study began with the goal of identifying constituents from Zyzzya fuliginosa extracts that showed selectivity in our primary cytotoxicity screen against the PANC-1 tumor cell line. During the course of this project, which focused on six Z. fuliginosa samples collected from various regions of the Indo-Pacific, known compounds were obtained consisting of nine makaluvamine and three damirone analogues. Four new acetylated derivatives were also prepared. High-accuracy electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HAESI-MS) m/z ions produced through MS2 runs were obtained and interpreted to provide a rapid way for dereplicating isomers containing a pyrrolo[4,3,2-de]quinoline core. In vitro human pancreas/duct epithelioid carcinoma (PANC-1) cell line IC50 data was obtained for 16 compounds and two therapeutic standards. These results along with data gleaned from the literature provided useful structure activity relationship conclusions. Three structural motifs proved to be important in maximizing potency against PANC-1: (i) conjugation within the core of the ABC-ring; (ii) the presence of a positive charge in the C-ring; and (iii) inclusion of a 4-ethyl phenol or 4-ethyl phenol acetate substituent off the B-ring. Two compounds, makaluvamine J (9) and 15-O-acetyl makaluvamine J (15), contained all three of these frameworks and exhibited the best potency with IC50 values of 54 nM and 81 nM, respectively. These two most potent analogs were then tested against the OVCAR-5 cell line and the presence of the acetyl group increased the potency 14-fold from that of 9 whose IC50 = 120 nM vs. that of 15 having IC50 = 8.6 nM.
Current Status of Marine-Derived Compounds as Warheads in Anti-Tumor Drug Candidates
Authors: Newman David , Cragg Gordon
Published: March 2017

In this review, we have attempted to describe all of the antibody–drug conjugates using a marine-derived compound as the “warhead”, that are currently in clinical trials as listed in the current version of the NIH clinical trials database (clinicaltrials.gov). In searching this database, we used the beta-test version currently available, as it permitted more specific search parameters, since the regular version did not always find trials that had been completed in the past with some agents. We also added small discussion sections on candidates that are still at the preclinical stage, including a derivative of diazonamide that has an unusual interaction with tubulin (DZ-23840), which may also be a potential warhead in the future.
Characterization of In-Situ Cu–TiH2–C and Cu–Ti–C Nanocomposites Produced by Mechanical Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Thi Hoang Oanh Nguyen , Hoang Viet Nguyen , Kim Ji-Soon , Moreira Jorge Junior Alberto
Published: March 2017

This study focuses on the fabrication and microstructural investigation of Cu–TiH2–C and Cu–Ti–C nanocomposites with different volume fractions (10% and 20%) of TiC. Two mixtures of powders were ball milled for 10 h, consequently consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 900 and 1000 °C producing bulk materials with relative densities of 95–97%. The evolution process of TiC formation during sintering process was studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). XRD patterns of composites present only Cu and TiC phases, no residual Ti phase can be detected. TEM images of composites with (10 vol % TiC) sintered at 900 °C show TiC nanoparticles about 10–30 nm precipitated in copper matrix, most of Ti and C dissolved in the composite matrix. At the higher sintering temperature of 1000 °C, more TiC precipitates from Cu–TiH2–C than those of Cu–Ti–C composite, particle size ranges from 10 to 20 nm. The hardness of both nanocomposites also increased with increasing sintering temperature. The highest hardness values of Cu–TiH2–C and Cu–Ti–C nanocomposites sintered at 1000 °C are 314 and 306 HV, respectively.
NMR and IR Investigations of Strong Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Hansen Poul Erik , Spanget-Larsen Jens
Published: March 2017

For the purpose of this review, strong hydrogen bonds have been defined on the basis of experimental data, such as OH stretching wavenumbers, νOH, and OH chemical shifts, δOH (in the latter case, after correction for ring current effects). Limits for O–H···Y systems are taken as 2800 > νOH > 1800 cm−1, and 19 ppm > δOH > 15 ppm. Recent results as well as an account of theoretical advances are presented for a series of important classes of compounds such as β-diketone enols, β-thioxoketone enols, Mannich bases, proton sponges, quinoline N-oxides and diacid anions. The O···O distance has long been used as a parameter for hydrogen bond strength in O–H···O systems. On a broad scale, a correlation between OH stretching wavenumbers and O···O distances is observed, as demonstrated experimentally as well as theoretically, but for substituted β-diketone enols this correlation is relatively weak.
Plasma Vitamin D Deficiency Is Associated With Poor Sleep Quality and Night-Time Eating at Mid-Pregnancy in Singapore
Authors: Cheng Tuck , Loy See , Cheung Yin , Cai Shirong , Colega Marjorelee , Godfrey Keith , Chong Yap-Seng , Tan Kok , Shek Lynette , Lee Yung , Lek Ngee , Chan Jerry , Chong Mary , Yap Fabian
Published: March 2017

Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) deficiency, poor sleep quality, and night-time eating, have been independently associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, but their inter-relationships are yet to be evaluated. We aimed to investigate the associations between maternal plasma 25OHD status and sleep quality and circadian eating patterns during pregnancy. Data on pregnant women (n = 890) from a prospective cohort (Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes) were analyzed. Plasma 25OHD concentration was measured, while the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and 24-h dietary recall were administered to women at 26–28 weeks’ gestation. Plasma 25OHD status was defined as sufficient (>75 nmol/L), insufficient (50–75 nmol/L), or deficient (<50 nmol/L). Poor sleep quality was defined by a total global PSQI score >5. Predominantly day-time (pDT) and predominantly night-time (pNT) were defined according to consumption of greater proportion of calories (i.e., >50%) from 07:00–18:59 and from 19:00–06:59, respectively. After adjustment for confounders, women with plasma 25OHD deficiency had higher odds of poor sleep quality (odds ratio (OR) 3.49; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.84–6.63) and pNT eating (OR: 1.85; 95% CI 1.00–3.41) than those who were 25OHD sufficient. Our findings show the association of maternal plasma 25OHD deficiency with poor sleep quality and pNT eating at mid-pregnancy.
Imprinting of Microorganisms for Biosensor Applications
Authors: Idil Neslihan , Mattiasson Bo
Published: March 2017

There is a growing need for selective recognition of microorganisms in complex samples due to the rapidly emerging importance of detecting them in various matrices. Most of the conventional methods used to identify microorganisms are time-consuming, laborious and expensive. In recent years, many efforts have been put forth to develop alternative methods for the detection of microorganisms. These methods include use of various components such as silica nanoparticles, microfluidics, liquid crystals, carbon nanotubes which could be integrated with sensor technology in order to detect microorganisms. In many of these publications antibodies were used as recognition elements by means of specific interactions between the target cell and the binding site of the antibody for the purpose of cell recognition and detection. Even though natural antibodies have high selectivity and sensitivity, they have limited stability and tend to denature in conditions outside the physiological range. Among different approaches, biomimetic materials having superior properties have been used in creating artificial systems. Molecular imprinting is a well suited technique serving the purpose to develop highly selective sensing devices. Molecularly imprinted polymers defined as artificial recognition elements are of growing interest for applications in several sectors of life science involving the investigations on detecting molecules of specific interest. These polymers have attractive properties such as high bio-recognition capability, mechanical and chemical stability, easy preparation and low cost which make them superior over natural recognition reagents. This review summarizes the recent advances in the detection and quantification of microorganisms by emphasizing the molecular imprinting technology and its applications in the development of sensor strategies.
Facial Expression Recognition with Fusion Features Extracted from Salient Facial Areas
Authors: Liu Yanpeng , Li Yibin , Ma Xin , Song Rui
Published: March 2017

In the pattern recognition domain, deep architectures are currently widely used and they have achieved fine results. However, these deep architectures make particular demands, especially in terms of their requirement for big datasets and GPU. Aiming to gain better results without deep networks, we propose a simplified algorithm framework using fusion features extracted from the salient areas of faces. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm has achieved a better result than some deep architectures. For extracting more effective features, this paper firstly defines the salient areas on the faces. This paper normalizes the salient areas of the same location in the faces to the same size; therefore, it can extracts more similar features from different subjects. LBP and HOG features are extracted from the salient areas, fusion features’ dimensions are reduced by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and we apply several classifiers to classify the six basic expressions at once. This paper proposes a salient areas definitude method which uses peak expressions frames compared with neutral faces. This paper also proposes and applies the idea of normalizing the salient areas to align the specific areas which express the different expressions. As a result, the salient areas found from different subjects are the same size. In addition, the gamma correction method is firstly applied on LBP features in our algorithm framework which improves our recognition rates significantly. By applying this algorithm framework, our research has gained state-of-the-art performances on CK+ database and JAFFE database.
MIP-Based Sensors: Promising New Tools for Cancer Biomarker Determination
Authors: Selvolini Giulia , Marrazza Giovanna
Published: March 2017

Detecting cancer disease at an early stage is one of the most important issues for increasing the survival rate of patients. Cancer biomarker detection helps to provide a diagnosis before the disease becomes incurable in later stages. Biomarkers can also be used to evaluate the progression of therapies and surgery treatments. In recent years, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based sensors have been intensely investigated as promising analytical devices in several fields, including clinical analysis, offering desired portability, fast response, specificity, and low cost. The aim of this review is to provide readers with an overview on recent important achievements in MIP-based sensors coupled to various transducers (e.g., electrochemical, optical, and piezoelectric) for the determination of cancer biomarkers by selected publications from 2012 to 2016.
Early Front-End Innovation Decisions for Self-Organized Industrial Symbiosis Dynamics—A Case Study on Lignin Utilization
Authors: Gabriel Magdalena , Schöggl Josef-Peter , Posch Alfred
Published: March 2017

The emergence of self-organized industrial symbiosis (IS) is based on the expectations of industrial actors regarding financial and/or environmental benefits through symbiotic inter-company linkages. One such linkage is the exchange of by-products as substitutes for primary raw materials. However, the company generating the by-product may even not be aware of potential application fields in other industries. In cases where the by-product triggers an innovation, the very early phase of the innovation process (“early front-end”—EFE) is extremely important, as it is here that a first rough picture of future application fields must be defined. In contrast to traditional market innovations of industries, the EFE of IS innovations is triggered by the existence of a certain by-product. As conventional innovation models are not very helpful in supporting the EFE decisions in IS innovations, our paper aims to establish a link between self-organized IS and innovation by creating a specific theoretical framework for the support of EFE decisions. We thus introduce the “stage-gate model of self-organized IS innovations” and place a particular emphasis on the early phases within this model. Subsequently, we illustrate the application of the early phases of the model in a case study on lignin utilization in the Austrian paper and pulp industry (P&P industry). In this way, the study contributes to a better understanding of the peculiarities and conditions of EFE decisions in IS innovations and their significance in the emergence of self-organized IS networks.
A Pharmacological Examination of the Cardiovascular Effects of Malayan Krait (Bungarus candidus) Venoms
Authors: Chaisakul Janeyuth , Rusmili Muhamad Rusdi Ahmad , Hodgson Wayne C. , Hatthachote Panadda , Suwan Kijja , Inchan Anjaree , Chanhome Lawan , Othman Iekhsan , Chootip Krongkarn
Published: March 2017

Cardiovascular effects (e.g., tachycardia, hypo- and/or hypertension) are often clinical outcomes of snake envenoming. Malayan krait (Bungarus candidus) envenoming has been reported to cause cardiovascular effects that may be related to abnormalities in parasympathetic activity. However, the exact mechanism for this effect has yet to be determined. In the present study, we investigated the in vivo and in vitro cardiovascular effects of B. candidus venoms from Southern (BC-S) and Northeastern (BC-NE) Thailand. SDS-PAGE analysis of venoms showed some differences in the protein profile of the venoms. B. candidus venoms (50 µg/kg–100 µg/kg, i.v.) caused dose-dependent hypotension in anaesthetised rats. The highest dose caused sudden hypotension (phase I) followed by a return of mean arterial pressure to baseline levels and a decrease in heart rate with transient hypertension (phase II) prior to a small decrease in blood pressure (phase III). Prior administration of monovalent antivenom significantly attenuated the hypotension induced by venoms (100 µg/kg, i.v.). The sudden hypotensive effect of BC-NE venom was abolished by prior administration of hexamethonium (10 mg/kg, i.v.) or atropine (5 mg/kg, i.v.). BC-S and BC-NE venoms (0.1 µg/kg–100 µg/ml) induced concentration-dependent relaxation (EC50 = 8 ± 1 and 13 ± 3 µg/mL, respectively) in endothelium-intact aorta. The concentration–response curves were markedly shifted to the right by pre-incubation with L-NAME (0.2 mM), or removal of the endothelium, suggesting that endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO) is likely to be responsible for venom-induced aortic relaxation. Our data indicate that the cardiovascular effects caused by B. candidus venoms may be due to a combination of vascular mediators (i.e., NO) and autonomic adaptation via nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.
Modeling of Regionalized Emissions (MoRE) into Water Bodies: An Open-Source River Basin Management System
Authors: Fuchs Stephan , Kaiser Maria , Kiemle Lisa , Kittlaus Steffen , Rothvoß Shari , Toshovski Snezhina , Wagner Adrian , Wander Ramona , Weber Tatyana , Ziegler Sara
Published: March 2017

An accurate budget of substance emissions is fundamental for protecting freshwater resources. In this context, the European Union asks all member states to report an emission inventory of substances for river basins. The river basin management system MoRE (Modeling of Regionalized Emissions) was developed as a flexible open-source instrument which is able to model pathway-specific emissions and river loads on a catchment scale. As the reporting tool for the Federal Republic of Germany, MoRE is used to model annual emissions of nutrients, heavy metals, micropollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), and certain pharmaceuticals. Observed loads at gauging stations are used to validate the calculated emissions. In addition to its balancing capabilities, MoRE can consider different variants of input data and quantification approaches, in order to improve the robustness of different modeling approaches and to evaluate the quality of different input data. No programming skills are required to set up and run the model. Due to its flexible modeling base, the effect of reduction measures can be assessed. Within strategic planning processes, this is relevant for the allocation of investments or the implementation of specific measures to reduce the overall pollutant emissions into surface water bodies and therefore to meet the requirements of water policy.
Interstellar Gas-phase Element Depletions in the Small Magellanic Cloud: A Guide to Correcting for Dust in QSO Absorption Line Systems∗
Authors: Jenkins Edward B. , Wallerstein George
Published: March 2017

We present data on the gas-phase abundances for 9 different elements in the interstellar medium of the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), based on the strengths of ultraviolet absorption features over relevant velocities in the spectra of 18 stars within the SMC. From this information and the total abundances defined by the element fractions in young stars in the SMC, we construct a general interpretation on how these elements condense into solid form onto dust grains. As a group, the elements Si, S, Cr, Fe, Ni, and Zn exhibit depletion sequences similar to those in the local part of our Galaxy defined by Jenkins. The elements Mg and Ti deplete less rapidly in the SMC than in the Milky Way, and Mn depletes more rapidly. We speculate that these differences might be explained by the different chemical affinities to different existing grain substrates. For instance, there is evidence that the mass fractions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the SMC are significantly lower than those in the Milky Way. We propose that the depletion sequences that we observed for the SMC may provide a better model for interpreting the element abundances in low-metallicity Damped Lyman Alpha (DLA) and sub-DLA absorption systems that are recorded in the spectra of distant quasars and gamma-ray burst afterglows.
Probing the evolutionary history of epigenetic mechanisms: what can we learn from marine diatoms
Authors: Rastogi Achal , Lin Xin , Lombard Bérangère , Loew Damarys , Tirichine Leïla
Published: March 2017

Recent progress made on epigenetic studies revealed the conservation of epigenetic features in deep diverse branching species including Stramenopiles, plants and animals. This suggests their fundamental role in shaping species genomes across different evolutionary time scales. Diatoms are a highly successful and diverse group of phytoplankton with a fossil record of about 190 million years ago. They are distantly related from other super-groups of Eukaryotes and have retained some of the epigenetic features found in mammals and plants suggesting their ancient origin. Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Thalassiosira pseudonana, pennate and centric diatoms, respectively, emerged as model species to address questions on the evolution of epigenetic phenomena such as what has been lost, retained or has evolved in contemporary species. In the present work, we will discuss how the study of non-model or emerging model organisms, such as diatoms, helps understand the evolutionary history of epigenetic mechanisms with a particular focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications.
Femmes et habitats périurbains : recompositions de genre à Hô Chi Minh ville
Authors: Berdoulay Vincent , Ngô Thi Thu Trang
Published: March 2017

Des changements dans les rapports sociaux de sexe sont étudiés dans le contexte du périurbain de Hô Chi Minh Ville, où trois types d’habitat sont enquêtés (aménagé, ancien, précaire) dans l’arrondissement Binh Tân. Des différences comme des similarités entre ces types d'habitat se notent à propos des représentations du rôle et de la place des femmes dans la famille et dans la société, ainsi qu’à propos de pratiques qui ont fait l’objet de l’enquête : célébration du culte des ancêtres, partage du travail domestique, gestion du revenu familial et prise de décision dans la famille. Les résultats montrent que ces enjeux de genre comptent dans l’accès aux ressources potentiellement utilisables par les femmes et conditionnées par les types d’habitat étudiés.
L’informalité comme une ressource urbaine ? Le cas des favelas de Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Gonçalves Rafael Soares
Published: March 2017

Cet article analyse le rôle exercé par l'informalité urbaine dans le processus de configuration et d'accès aux ressources urbaines. Dans le cas des favelas de Rio, l’informalité peut permettre l’accès à des zones privilégiées de la ville, ce qui ne serait pas possible par la voie du marché ou par l'application de politiques publiques. Elle permet en outre des logiques plus fonctionnelles et adaptées aux besoins des résidents et devient ainsi, paradoxalement, une ressource des résidents pour accéder à la ville. Afin de démontrer les stratégies et impacts des pratiques informelles, nous avons choisi trois cas de figures, à savoir : les pratiques d’auto-construction, les formes de gestion informelle des services collectifs, tel que l´eau, et enfin les démarches d'exemption du coût des permis de commerce dans les zones des favelas.
Development of a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay for the identification of common cutworm species (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infesting canola in western Canada
Authors: Erlandson Martin A. , Holowachuk Jennifer , Sieminska Edyta A. , Hummel Jeremy , Otani Jennifer , Floate Kevin D.
Published: March 2017

Cutworms (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) constitute an important insect pest complex that causes damage to a variety of crops across western Canada and particularly in canola (Brassica napusLinnaeus; Brassicaceae) crops in recent years. However, individual cutworms are very difficult to identify to species based on morphology alone, particularly at the larval stage. Problems with pest identification can lead to difficulties in recommending appropriate management strategies for specific cutworm infestations. In the current study we have developed and applied a single-step multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay, based on the rRNA ITS2 genomic sequence, which can be used to identify, to the species level, individuals of the following five key cutworm species:Agrotis orthogoniaMorrison,Euxoa auxiliaris(Grote),Euxoa ochrogaster(Guenée),Feltia jaculifera(Guenée), andLacinipolia renigera(Stephens). This molecular identification tool will be a valuable asset in agronomic and ecological studies of cutworm infestations in the canola cropping system across western Canada and potentially could be used as a timely identification tool for determining pest infestations to the species level during outbreaks.