bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Product status signaling as mediator between materialism and product satisfaction of Saudis and Malaysians
Authors: Kassim Norizan Mohd , Bogari Naima , Salamah Najah , Zain Mohamed
Published: July 2016

We investigated the mediating role of product status signaling in the relationship between materialism and product satisfaction of Saudi and Malaysian adults. We performed structural equation modeling to analyze data from 894 Generations X and Y participants in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia,
who responded to a self-administered survey. Contrary to previous research findings both from Malaysia, and from North American and other Western-culture samples, there were positive significant direct effects of materialism on product satisfaction for consumers in both countries. The results
of the mediating effect (materialistic values → product status signaling → product satisfaction) indicated that, for Saudis, the effect was positive and moderate in strength, whereas for Malaysians, the effect was positive and strong. The overall results showed that product status
signaling acted as a partial mediator in the relationship between materialistic values and product satisfaction. On the basis of these results, it is important for marketers to understand that both Malaysian and Saudi consumers—Saudis in particular—tend to rely, and focus, on the
symbolic meanings attached to products that will only be successfully communicated if the symbolism in the product is socially and visibly recognized by these consumers. Suggestions for future research are offered.
Challenges in Diabetes Care: Can Digital Health Help Address Them?
Authors: Iyengar Varun , Wolf Alexander , Brown Adam , Close Kelly
Published: July 2016

In Brief There is great enthusiasm for the potential of digital health solutions in medicine and diabetes to address key care challenges: patient and provider burden, lack of data to inform therapeutic decision-making, poor access to care, and costs. However, the field is still in its nascent days; many patients and providers do not currently engage with digital health tools, and for those who do, the burden is still often high. Over time, digital health has excellent potential to collect data more seamlessly, make collected data more useful, and drive better outcomes at lower costs in less time. But there is still much to prove. This review offers key background information on the current state of digital health in diabetes, six of the most promising digital health technologies and services, and the challenges that remain.
Accuracy of Carbohydrate Counting in Adults
Authors: Meade Lisa T. , Rushton Wanda E.
Published: July 2016

In Brief This study investigates carbohydrate counting accuracy in patients using insulin through a multiple daily injection regimen or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion. The average accuracy test score for all patients was 59%. The carbohydrate test in this study can be used to emphasize the importance of carbohydrate counting to patients and to provide ongoing education.
Feasibility of laproscopic appendectomy in appendicities and appendicular perforation
Authors: Sah RK , Bishokarma S
Published: July 2016

Introduction: The advent and rapid acceptance of laparoscopic surgery led to the idea of performing laparoscopic  appendectomy (LA). In 1983 Semm, a German gynecologist performed the first LA. More than three decades later, the benefits of LA are still controversial. The objective of this study is to assess the feasibility of laproscopic appendectomy in appendicitis and appendicular perforation.Methods: Thirty five patient undergoing laproscopicappendectomy for appendicitis from 14th feb 2015 to 11th feb 2016 in Grande international hospital were included in the study. Duration of surgery, requirement of analgesia, time to normal diet and regular activity as well as length of hospital stay and postoperative complications were studied.Results: A total of 35 patients underwent laparoscopic appendectomy during the study period.Ten patients have peri-appendicular pus collection of which six patients have perforation. Median duration of surgery was 59±8.64 minutes.  Mean Post operative pain score was  4.71±0.71. Mean intravenous fevastin requirement was 3.31±0.9 gm and intravenous ketorolac  was 94±27mg while oral diclofenac was 731±172.81mg. Postoperative complications were 9%.  Mean time to normal diet resumption was 1.17±0.47 days and time to normal activities was 10.5±2.44 days. Median length of hospital stay was 1.9±0.96 days.Conclusion: Laproscopic appendectomy is a feasible option for appendicitis as well as appendicular perforation. More frequent use of this procedure may lead to reduction in operating time. Continuation of laproscopic appendectomy as a therapeutic option for patients with appendicitisas well as appendicular perforation need evaluation in large study scale.
Change in perception to use of ultrasound in trauma and ICU: a questionnaire based survey
Authors: Lama Karjome , Thapa Amit , KC Bidur , Shakya Bikram
Published: July 2016

Introduction and Objective: We since 2012 have been routinely conducting KUTLS (KMCTH ultrasound trauma life support) courses. Unlike detailed examination of an organ with an ultrasound as performed by radiologist, we profess sonoscopic based problem solving approach for the clinician as he uses his stethoscope. The initial skepticism to use of sonoscope in a systematic methodical way has been seen to be fading. We conducted a survey to see the change in attitude of the clinicians with the training program.Materials and Methods: We study the questionnaire based feedback forms of the participants in the last 5 course of KUTLS workshop and analysed the change in scores of the post test.Results: 152 delegates actively participated in 5 sessions of KUTLS workshops during the last 3 years. The most common reasons to attend the workshop was to develop the skill with sonoscope with almost 95% participant not having any past experience of sonoscopy. Almost 98% scored more than 75% in the post test suggesting fast learning curve and interest among the learners. Almost 100% were convinced with the applicability of the USG and had wished to change their practice.Conclusion: A structured use of sonoscope would be helpful in clinical practice particularly in solving difficult questions in trauma and ICU. Workshops and seminars help change attitude and practice of the participants even with no prior formal training in ultrasound.
Image enhancement for on-site X-ray nondestructive inspection of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Pei Cuixiang , Wu Wenjing , Ueaska Mitsuru
Published: July 2016

The use of portable and high-energy X-ray system can provide a very promising approach for on-site nondestructive inspection of inner steel reinforcement of concrete structures. However, the noise properties and contrast of the radiographic images for thick concrete structures do often not meet the demands. To enhance the images, we present a simple and effective method for noise reduction based on a combined curvelet-wavelet transform and local contrast enhancement based on neighborhood operation. To investigate the performance of this method for our X-ray system, we have performed several experiments with using simulated and experimental data. With comparing to other traditional methods, it shows that the proposed image enhancement method has a better performance and can significantly improve the inspection performance for reinforced concrete structures.
Effect of Sowing Date of Sweet Corn on Potato + Sweet Corn Intercropping System
Authors: Begum AA , Islam MN , Kakon SS , Kamal MAHM , Aziz MA , Paul SK
Published: July 2016

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy research field of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Joydebpur, Gazipur and at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Burirhat, Rangpur during Rabi season of 2013-14 and 2014-15 to find out optimum sowing date of sweet corn in potato + sweet corn intercropping system for getting maximum yield and economic return. Six treatments viz., simultaneous sowing of potato and sweet corn, sweet corn sown at 10 days after potato planting (DAPP), sweet corn sown 20 DAPP, sweet corn sown 30 DAPP, sole potato and sole sweet corn were tested in this study. Sweet corn sown at 20 DPP produced the highest potato equivalent yield (Joydebpur: 41.41 t ha-1 in 2013-14 and 42.22 t ha-1 in 2014-15 and Rangpur: 42.29 t ha-1 in 2013-14 and 42.52 t ha-1 in 2014-15). The highest gross return at Joydebpur Tk. 431050 ha-1 and at Rangpur Tk. 436248 ha-1, gross margin at Joydebpur Tk. 286805 ha-1 and at Rangpur Tk. 271985 ha-1 and benefit cost ratio at Joydebpur 2.99 and at Rangpur 3.01 were observed over the years in the same treatment. In this treatment, tuber yield was reduced 3.4-4.1% in Joydebpur and 7.8-8.4% in Rangpur due to intercropping. The result indicated that sweet corn sown 20 DAPP might be suitable intercrop combination for getting maximum yield and economic return.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2015, 18(2): 15-21
Inequalities and convergence of health outcomes in South Asian countries
Authors: Kumar Sumit
Published: July 2016

For human development of South Asian countries, which houses more than one-fifth of worlds population, it becomes crucial to study health inequalities between and within these countries. The aim of this paper is to explore the extent of health inequalities and convergence of health outcomes as represented by life expectancy and infant mortality rates among the South Asian countries. The statistical methods Gini coefficient, ?, and ?-convergence analysis are utilized to study inequalities and convergence-divergence, which are well established in macro-economic growth analyses. For the study longitudinal data over the period 1996-2012 for Infant Mortality rate (IMR) and Life expectancy (LE) is utilized. The results of the analysis indicate that there have been large inequalities in IMR and these are still increasing among the countries. However, in case of LE the inequalities are small and are on decline over the period of time. Further, the tests for convergence reveal that the IMR and LE have not been converged in the period 1996-2012 and no convergence clubs has been formed. The present analyses high-lights that the relative positions of countries among the South Asia have changed little and the trend of large inequalities among the countries continues. Further research to identify economic and social policy measures which decline the large inequalities among the countries can be rewarding exposition for all the stakeholders.South East Asia Journal of Public Health Vol.5(2) 2015: 71-76
Battling Silent Chaos: The Refrain and Decolonial Potentials
Authors: Méndez Xhercis
Published: July 2016

This article examines some of the ways in which Black and Brown young women and men within the context of the US are consistently confronted by the silences around state-sanctioned violence enacted on our bodies with impunity while even our playful sonoric outbursts are reconfigured as threats to the state. I argue that, different from Deleuze and Guattari's conceptualisation where the refrain functions to keep chaos at bay, the refrain produced by a group of Black and Brown youth at a ferry station in New York brings to the fore and into confrontation the very Codes that create a sense of ‘home’ and ‘security’ for some at the expense of their well-being and often lives. However it is from navigating, what I refer to as, silent chaos that this article seeks to explore the decolonial potential of the sonoric ‘disruptions' produced by these Black and Brown young women and men, in particular by examining how they challenge the status quo and highlight the urgent need for new systems of valuation that would serve to reconstitute their collective worth.
Comparison of the Average Lift Coefficient ͞CL and Normalized Lift ͞ηL for Evaluating Hovering and Forward Flapping Flight
Authors: Burgers Phillip
Published: July 2016

The capability of flapping wings to generate lift is currently evaluated by using the lift coefficient C ¯ L , a dimensionless number that is derived from the basal equation that calculates the steady-state lift coefficient CL for fixed wings. In contrast to its simple and direct application to fixed wings, the equation for C ¯ L requires prior knowledge of the flow field along the wing span, which results in two integrations: along the wing span and over time. This paper proposes an alternate average normalized lift η ¯ L that is easy to apply to hovering and forward flapping flight, does not require prior knowledge of the flow field, does not resort to calculus for its solution, and its lineage is close to the basal equation for steady state CL. Furthermore, the average normalized lift η ¯ L converges to the legacy CL as the flapping frequency is reduced to zero (gliding flight). Its ease of use is illustrated by applying the average normalized lift η ¯ L to the hovering and translating flapping flight of bumblebees. This application of the normalized lift is compared to the same application using two widely-accepted legacy average lift coefficients: the first C ¯ L as defined by Dudley and Ellington, and the second lift coefficient by Weis-Fogh. Furthermore, it is shown that the average normalized lift η ¯ L has a physical meaning: that of the ratio of work exerted by the flapping wings onto the surrounding flow field and the kinetic energy available at the aerodynamic surfaces during the generation of lift. The working equation for the average normalized lift η ¯ L is derived and is presented as a function of Strouhal number, St.
Second-Harmonic Generation in Membrane-Type Nonlinear Acoustic Metamaterials
Authors: Zhang Jiangyi , Romero-García Vicente , Theocharis Georgios , Richoux Olivier , Achilleos Vassos , Frantzeskakis Dimitris
Published: July 2016

We study analytically and numerically the second-harmonic generation in a one-dimensional nonlinear acoustic metamaterial, composed of an air-filled waveguide periodically loaded by clamped elastic plates. Based on the transmission line approach, we derive a nonlinear dynamical lattice model which, in the continuum approximation, leads to a nonlinear dispersive wave equation. By applying the perturbation method to the latter, we derive the analytical expressions for the first- and second-harmonics, which are in excellent agreement with the numerical simulations of the nonlinear dynamical lattice model. Apart from the case of dispersionless nonlinear propagation and the Fubini solution, special attention is payed to the role of dispersion. In that regard, it is found that, once dispersion comes into play, second-harmonic beatings in space due to phase-mismatch can be identified. Our results provide many opportunities for the development of new periodic acoustic structures featuring both nonlinearity and dispersion.
Energy Simulation of a Holographic PVT Concentrating System for Building Integration Applications
Authors: Marín-Sáez Julia , Chemisana Daniel , Moreno Álex , Riverola Alberto , Atencia Jesús , Collados María-Victoria
Published: July 2016

A building integrated holographic concentrating photovoltaic-thermal system has been optically and energetically simulated. The system has been designed to be superimposed into a solar shading louvre; in this way the concentrating unit takes profit of the solar altitude tracking, which the shading blinds already have, to increase system performance. A dynamic energy simulation has been conducted in two different locations—Sde Boker (Israel) and Avignon (France)—both with adequate annual irradiances for solar applications, but with different weather and energy demand characteristics. The simulation engine utilized has been TRNSYS, coupled with MATLAB (where the ray-tracing algorithm to simulate the holographic optical performance has been implemented). The concentrator achieves annual mean optical efficiencies of 30.3% for Sde Boker and 43.0% for the case of Avignon. Regarding the energy production, in both locations the thermal energy produced meets almost 100% of the domestic hot water demand as this has been considered a priority in the system control. On the other hand, the space heating demands are covered by a percentage ranging from 15% (Avignon) to 20% (Sde Boker). Finally, the electricity produced in both places covers 7.4% of the electrical demand profile for Sde Boker and 9.1% for Avignon.
A High-Precision Control for a ZVT PWM Soft-Switching Inverter to Eliminate the Dead-Time Effect
Authors: Kou Baoquan , Zhang Hailin , Zhang He
Published: July 2016

Attributing to the advantages of high efficiency, low electromagnetic interference (EMI) noise and closest to the pulse-width-modulation (PWM) converter counterpart, zero-voltage-transition (ZVT) PWM soft-switching inverters are very suitable for high-performance applications. However, the conventional control algorithms intended for high efficiency generally results in voltage distortion. Thus, this paper, for the first time, proposes a high-precision control method to eliminate the dead-time effect through controlling the auxiliary current in the auxiliary resonant snubber inverter (ARSI), which is a typical ZVT PWM inverter. The dead-time effect of ARSI is analyzed, which is distinguished from hard-switching inverters. The proposed high-precision control is introduced based on the investigation of dead-time effect. A prototype was developed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control. The experimental results shows that the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the output current of the ARSI can be reduced compared with that of the hard-switching inverter, because the blanking delay error is eliminated. The quality of the output current and voltage can be further improved by utilizing the proposed control method.
Soil Respiration at Different Stand Ages (5, 10, and 20/30 Years) in Coniferous (Pinus tabulaeformis Carrière) and Deciduous (Populus davidiana Dode) Plantations in a Sandstorm Source Area
Authors: Zhao Xin , Li Fadong , Zhang Wanjun , Ai Zhipin , Shen Huitao , Liu Xiuping , Cao Jiansheng , Manevski Kiril
Published: July 2016

Understanding the effects of stand age and forest type on soil respiration is crucial for predicting the potential of soil carbon sequestration. Thus far, however, there is no consensus regarding the variations in soil respiration caused by stand age and forest type. This study investigated soil respiration and its temperature sensitivity at three stand ages (5, 10, and 20 or 30 years) in two plantations of coniferous (Pinus tabulaeformis Carrière) and deciduous (Populus davidiana Dode) species using an automated chamber system in 2013 in the Beijing-Tianjin sandstorm source area. Results showed that mean soil respiration in the 5-, 10-, and 20/30-year-old plantations was 3.37, 3.17, and 2.99 μmol·m−2·s−1 for P. tabulaeformis and 2.92, 2.85, and 2.57 μmol·m−2·s−1 for P. davidiana, respectively. Soil respiration decreased with stand age for both species. There was no significant difference in soil respiration between the two plantation species at ages 5 and 10 years (p > 0.05). Temperature sensitivity of soil respiration, which ranged from 1.85–1.99 in P. tabulaeformis and 2.20–2.46 in P. davidiana plantations, was found to increase with stand age. Temperature sensitivity was also significantly higher in P. davidiana plantations and when the soil water content was below 12.8%. Temperature sensitivity incorporated a combined response of soil respiration to soil temperature, soil water content, soil organic carbon, and fine root biomass and, thus, provided an ecological metric for comparing forest carbon dynamics of these species.
Genetic Variations in the Promoter of the APE1 Gene Are Associated with DMF-Induced Abnormal Liver Function: A Case-Control Study in a Chinese Population
Authors: Tong Zhimin , Shen Huanxi , Yang Dandan , Zhang Feng , Bai Ying , Li Qian , Shi Jian , Zhang Hengdong , Zhu Baoli
Published: July 2016

Acute or long-term exposure to N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) can induce abnormal liver function. It is well known that DMF is mainly metabolized in the liver and thereby produces reactive oxygen species (ROS). The base excision repair (BER) pathway is regarded as a very important pathway involved in repairing ROS-induced DNA damage. Several studies have explored the associations between GSTM1, GSTT1, CYP2E1 polymorphisms and DMF-induced abnormal liver function; however, little is known about how common hOGG1, XRCC1 and APE1 polymorphisms and DMF induce abnormal liver function. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the polymorphisms in the hOGG1 (rs159153 and rs2072668), XRCC1 (rs25487, rs25489, and rs1799782), APE1 (rs1130409 and 1760944) genes in the human BER pathway were associated with the susceptibility to DMF-induced abnormal liver function in a Chinese population. These polymorphisms were genotyped in 123 workers with DMF-induced abnormal liver function and 123 workers with normal liver function. We found that workers with the APE1 rs1760944 TG/GG genotypes had a reduced risk of abnormal liver function, which was more pronounced in the subgroups that were exposed to DMF for <10 years, exposed to ≥10 mg/m3 DMF, never smoked and never drank. In summary, our study supported the hypothesis that the APE1 rs1760944 T > G polymorphism may be associated with DMF-induced abnormal liver function in the Chinese Han population.
Road Map Inference: A Segmentation and Grouping Framework
Authors: Qiu Jia , Wang Ruisheng
Published: July 2016

We propose a new segmentation and grouping framework for road map inference from GPS traces. We first present a progressive Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Application with Noise (DBSCAN) algorithm with an orientation constraint to partition the whole point set of the traces into clusters that represent road segments. A new point cluster grouping algorithm, according to the topological relationship and spatial proximity of the point clusters to recover the road network, is then developed. After generating the point clusters, the robust Locally-Weighted Scatterplot Smooth (Lowess) method is used to extract their centerlines. We then propose to build the topological relationship of the centerlines by a Hidden Markov Model (HMM)-based map matching algorithm; and to assess whether the spatial proximity between point clusters by assuming the distances from the points to the centerline comply with a Gaussian distribution. Finally, the point clusters are grouped according to their topological relationship and spatial proximity to form strokes for recovering the road map. Experimental results show that our algorithm is robust to noise and varied sampling rates. The generated road maps show high geometric accuracy.
Homocysteine Aggravates Cortical Neural Cell Injury through Neuronal Autophagy Overactivation following Rat Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion
Authors: Zhao Yaqian , Huang Guowei , Chen Shuang , Gou Yun , Dong Zhiping , Zhang Xumei
Published: July 2016

Elevated homocysteine (Hcy) levels have been reported to be involved in neurotoxicity after ischemic stroke. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood to date. In the current study, we hypothesized that neuronal autophagy activation may be involved in the toxic effect of Hcy on cortical neurons following cerebral ischemia. Brain cell injury was determined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) staining. The level and localization of autophagy were detected by transmission electron microscopy, western blot and immunofluorescence double labeling. The oxidative DNA damage was revealed by immunofluorescence of 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Hcy treatment aggravated neuronal cell death, significantly increased the formation of autophagosomes and the expression of LC3B and Beclin-1 in the brain cortex after middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO). Immunofluorescence analysis of LC3B and Beclin-1 distribution indicated that their expression occurred mainly in neurons (NeuN-positive) and hardly in astrocytes (GFAP-positive). 8-OHdG expression was also increased in the ischemic cortex of Hcy-treated animals. Conversely, LC3B and Beclin-1 overexpression and autophagosome accumulation caused by Hcy were partially blocked by the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA). Hcy administration enhanced neuronal autophagy, which contributes to cell death following cerebral ischemia. The oxidative damage-mediated autophagy may be a molecular mechanism underlying neuronal cell toxicity of elevated Hcy level.
Synthesis, Crystal Study, and Anti-Proliferative Activity of Some 2-Benzimidazolylthioacetophenones towards Triple-Negative Breast Cancer MDA-MB-468 Cells as Apoptosis-Inducing Agents
Authors: Abdel-Aziz Hatem , Eldehna Wagdy , Ghabbour Hazem , Al-Ansary Ghada , Assaf Areej , Al-Dhfyan Abdullah
Published: July 2016

On account of its poor prognosis and deficiency of therapeutic stratifications, triple negative breast cancer continues to form the causative platform of an incommensurate number of breast cancer deaths. Aiming at the development of potent anticancer agents as a continuum of our previous efforts, a novel series of 2-((benzimidazol-2-yl)thio)-1-arylethan-1-ones 5a–w was synthesized and evaluated for its anti-proliferative activity towards triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-468 cells. Compound 5k was the most active analog against MDA-MB-468 (IC50 = 19.90 ± 1.37 µM), with 2.1-fold increased activity compared to 5-fluorouracil (IC50 = 41.26 ± 3.77 µM). Compound 5k was able to induce apoptosis in MDA-MB-468, as evidenced by the marked boosting in the percentage of florecsein isothiocyanate annexin V (Annexin V–FITC)-positive apoptotic cells (upper right (UR) + lower right (LR)) by 2.8-fold in comparison to control accompanied by significant increase in the proportion of cells at pre-G1 (the first gap phase) by 8.13-fold in the cell-cycle analysis. Moreover, a quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) model was established to investigate the structural requirements orchestrating the anti-proliferative activity. Finally, we established a theoretical kinetic study.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Expression Is Inversely Associated with Macroscopic Vascular Invasion in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hsu Hui-Tzu , Sung Ming-Ta , Lee Chih-Chun , Kuo Yin-Ju , Chi Chin-Wen , Lee Hsin-Chen , Hsia Cheng-Yuan
Published: July 2016

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a ligand-activated nuclear receptor that regulates cellular lipid and glucose metabolism and also plays an inhibitory role in various cancers. However, the role of PPARγ in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of PPARγ in HCC and its role in inhibiting tumor progression, namely, HCC cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis. Immunohistochemical PPARγ staining was examined in 83 HCC specimens to investigate the clinicopathological correlations between PPARγ expression and various parameters. The functional role of PPARγ was determined via PPARγ overexpression and knockdown in HCC cells. Patients with low HCC tissue PPARγ expression were significantly younger (p = 0.006), and exhibited more tumor numbers (p = 0.038), more macroscopic vascular invasion (MVI) (p = 0.008), and more advanced TNM (size of primary tumor, number of regional lymph nodes, and distant metastasis) stages at diagnosis (p = 0.013) than patients with high HCC tissue PPARγ expression. PPARγ knockdown increased HCC cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis, while PPARγ overexpression reduced HCC cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis. These results suggest that low PPARγ expression is an independent predictor of more MVI in HCC patients. PPARγ contributes to the suppression of HCC cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis. Therefore, PPARγ may be a therapeutic target in HCC patients.
The Socio-Economic Evaluation of a European Project: The DIYLab Case
Authors: Sancho-Gil Juana , Rivera-Vargas Pablo
Published: July 2016

This paper builds on the results of a 3-year long European project, the main aim of which was to deeply and sustainably transform teaching and learning practice in primary and secondary schools and higher education, by introducing Do it Yourself (DIY) philosophy in order to expand digital competence and foster students’ agency and collaborative learning. Three universities and three primary and secondary schools have been involved in a Collaborative Action Research (CAR) process in order to analyse their current institutional context and perceive needs, strengths and weaknesses; to undertake professional development activities and the design of DIYLabs; implement DIYLabs in the selected courses; and reflect upon ways of improving the institution’s performance. This paper offers a global vision of the research and implementation processes and the results achieved, from the perspective of the socio-economic dimensions involved in a project aiming to make a difference in teaching and learning to meet the challenges of a society highly permeated by digital technology (DT).
Mechanical Properties of Additively Manufactured Thick Honeycombs
Authors: Hedayati Reza , Sadighi Mojtaba , Mohammadi Aghdam Mohammad , Zadpoor Amir
Published: July 2016

Honeycombs resemble the structure of a number of natural and biological materials such as cancellous bone, wood, and cork. Thick honeycomb could be also used for energy absorption applications. Moreover, studying the mechanical behavior of honeycombs under in-plane loading could help understanding the mechanical behavior of more complex 3D tessellated structures such as porous biomaterials. In this paper, we study the mechanical behavior of thick honeycombs made using additive manufacturing techniques that allow for fabrication of honeycombs with arbitrary and precisely controlled thickness. Thick honeycombs with different wall thicknesses were produced from polylactic acid (PLA) using fused deposition modelling, i.e., an additive manufacturing technique. The samples were mechanically tested in-plane under compression to determine their mechanical properties. We also obtained exact analytical solutions for the stiffness matrix of thick hexagonal honeycombs using both Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beam theories. The stiffness matrix was then used to derive analytical relationships that describe the elastic modulus, yield stress, and Poisson’s ratio of thick honeycombs. Finite element models were also built for computational analysis of the mechanical behavior of thick honeycombs under compression. The mechanical properties obtained using our analytical relationships were compared with experimental observations and computational results as well as with analytical solutions available in the literature. It was found that the analytical solutions presented here are in good agreement with experimental and computational results even for very thick honeycombs, whereas the analytical solutions available in the literature show a large deviation from experimental observation, computational results, and our analytical solutions.
Lattice Dynamics Study of Phonon Instability and Thermal Properties of Type-I Clathrate K8Si46 under High Pressure
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zeng Zhao , Ge Ni , Li Zhi
Published: July 2016

For a further understanding of the phase transitions mechanism in type-I silicon clathrates K8Si46, ab initio self-consistent electronic calculations combined with linear-response method have been performed to investigate the vibrational properties of alkali metal K atoms encapsulated type-I silicon-clathrate under pressure within the framework of density functional perturbation theory. Our lattice dynamics simulation results showed that the pressure induced phase transition of K8Si46 was believed to be driven by the phonon instability of the calthrate lattice. Analysis of the evolution of the partial phonon density of state with pressure, a legible dynamic picture for both guest K atoms and host lattice, was given. In addition, based on phonon calculations and combined with quasi-harmonic approximation, the specific heat of K8Si46 was derived, which agreed very well with experimental results. Also, other important thermal properties including the thermal expansion coefficients and Grüneisen parameters of K8Si46 under different temperature and pressure were also predicted.
Microstructure and Electrical Properties of AZO/Graphene Nanosheets Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Yang Shuang , Chen Fei , Shen Qiang , Lavernia Enrique , Zhang Lianmeng
Published: July 2016

In this study we report on the sintering behavior, microstructure and electrical properties of Al-doped ZnO ceramics containing 0–0.2 wt. % graphene sheets (AZO-GNSs) and processed using spark plasma sintering (SPS). Our results show that the addition of <0.25 wt. % GNSs enhances both the relative density and the electrical resistivity of AZO ceramics. In terms of the microstructure, the GNSs are distributed at grain boundaries. In addition, the GNSs are also present between ZnO and secondary phases (e.g., ZnAl2O4) and likely contribute to the measured enhancement of Hall mobility (up to 105.1 cm2·V−1·s−1) in these AZO ceramics. The minimum resistivity of the AZO-GNS composite ceramics is 3.1 × 10−4 Ω·cm which compares favorably to the value of AZO ceramics which typically have a resistivity of 1.7 × 10−3 Ω·cm.
Preparation of Chito-Oligomers by Hydrolysis of Chitosan in the Presence of Zeolite as Adsorbent
Authors: Ibrahim Khalid , El-Eswed Bassam , Abu-Sbeih Khaleel , Arafat Tawfeeq , Al Omari Mahmoud , Darras Fouad , Badwan Adnan
Published: July 2016

An increasing interest has recently been shown to use chitin/chitosan oligomers (chito-oligomers) in medicine and food fields because they are not only water-soluble, nontoxic, and biocompatible materials, but they also exhibit numerous biological properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor activities, as well as immuno-enhancing effects on animals. Conventional depolymerization methods of chitosan to chito-oligomers are either chemical by acid-hydrolysis under harsh conditions or by enzymatic degradation. In this work, hydrolysis of chitosan to chito-oligomers has been achieved by applying adsorption-separation technique using diluted HCl in the presence of different types of zeolite as adsorbents. The chito-oligomers were retrieved from adsorbents and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC/MS), and ninhydrin test.
Vinegar Metabolomics: An Explorative Study of Commercial Balsamic Vinegars Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pinu Farhana , De Carvalho-Silva Samuel , Trovatti Uetanabaro Ana , Villas-Boas Silas
Published: July 2016

Balsamic vinegar is a popular food condiment produced from cooked grape must by two successive fermentation (anaerobic and aerobic) processes. Although many studies have been performed to determine the composition of major metabolites, including sugars and aroma compounds, no study has been undertaken yet to characterize the comprehensive metabolite composition of balsamic vinegars. Here, we present the first metabolomics study of commercial balsamic vinegars by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The combination of three GC-MS methods allowed us to detect >1500 features in vinegar samples, of which 123 metabolites were accurately identified, including 25 amino acids, 26 carboxylic acids, 13 sugars and sugar alcohols, four fatty acids, one vitamin, one tripeptide and over 47 aroma compounds. Moreover, we identified for the first time in vinegar five volatile metabolites: acetin, 2-methylpyrazine, 2-acetyl-1-pyroline, 4-anisidine and 1,3-diacetoxypropane. Therefore, we demonstrated the capability of metabolomics for detecting and identifying large number of metabolites and some of them could be used to distinguish vinegar samples based on their origin and potentially quality.
Ultrasound Mediated One-Pot, Three Component Synthesis, Docking and ADME Prediction of Novel 5-Amino-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-Substituted Phenyl-8,8a-dihydro-7H-(1,3,4)thiadiazolo(3,2-α)pyrimidine-6-carbonitrile Derivatives as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Tiwari Shailee , Seijas Julio , Vazquez-Tato M. , Sarkate Aniket , Lokwani Deepak , Nikalje Anna
Published: July 2016

Herein, we report an environmentally friendly, rapid, and convenient one-pot ultrasound-promoted synthesis of 5-amino-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-substituted phenyl-8,8a-dihydro-7H-(1,3,4)thiadiazolo(3,2-α)pyrimidine-6-carbonitrile derivatives. The in-vitro anticancer activities of these compounds were evaluated against four human tumor cell lines. Among all the synthesized derivatives, compound 4i, which has substituent 3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl is found to have the highest GI50 value of 32.7 μM, 55.3 μM, 34.3 μM, 28.9 μM for MCF-7, K562, HeLa and PC-3 cancer cell lines respectively. A docking study of the newly synthesized compounds were performed, and the results showed good binding mode in the active site of thymidylate synthase enzyme. ADME properties of synthesized compounds were also studied and showed good drug like properties.
1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions of Azomethine Ylides with Carbonyl Dipolarophiles Yielding Oxazolidine Derivatives
Authors: Meyer Adam , Ryan John
Published: July 2016

We provide a comprehensive account of the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions of azomethine ylides with carbonyl dipolarophiles. Many different azomethine ylides have been studied, including stabilized and non-stabilized ylides. Of the carbonyl dipolarophiles, aldehydes including formaldehyde are the most studied, although there are now examples of cycloadditions with ketones, ketenes and carboxyl systems, in particular isatoic anhydrides and phthalic anhydrides. Intramolecular cycloadditions with esters can also occur under certain circumstances. The oxazolidine cycloadducts undergo a range of reactions triggered by the ring-opening of the oxazolidine ring system.
Harnessing the Therapeutic Potential of Capsaicin and Its Analogues in Pain and Other Diseases
Authors: Basith Shaherin , Cui Minghua , Hong Sunhye , Choi Sun
Published: July 2016

Capsaicin is the most predominant and naturally occurring alkamide found in Capsicum fruits. Since its discovery in the 19th century, the therapeutic roles of capsaicin have been well characterized. The potential applications of capsaicin range from food flavorings to therapeutics. Indeed, capsaicin and few of its analogues have featured in clinical research covered by more than a thousand patents. Previous records suggest pleiotropic pharmacological activities of capsaicin such as an analgesic, anti-obesity, anti-pruritic, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and neuro-protective functions. Moreover, emerging data indicate its clinical significance in treating vascular-related diseases, metabolic syndrome, and gastro-protective effects. The dearth of potent drugs for management of such disorders necessitates the urge for further research into the pharmacological aspects of capsaicin. This review summarizes the historical background, source, structure and analogues of capsaicin, and capsaicin-triggered TRPV1 signaling and desensitization processes. In particular, we will focus on the therapeutic roles of capsaicin and its analogues in both normal and pathophysiological conditions.
Estrogen Receptor Signaling and the PI3K/Akt Pathway Are Involved in Betulinic Acid-Induced eNOS Activation
Authors: Hohmann Nicolas , Xia Ning , Steinkamp-Fenske Katja , Förstermann Ulrich , Li Huige
Published: July 2016

Betulinic acid (BA) is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid with anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-cancer properties. Beneficial cardiovascular effects such as increased nitric oxide (NO) production through enhancement of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) activity and upregulation of eNOS expression have been demonstrated for this compound. In the present study, immortalized human EA.hy 926 endothelial cells were incubated for up to 1 h with 1–100 µM BA and with the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors LY294002 and wortmannin, or the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI 182,780. Phosphorylation status of eNOS and total eNOS protein were analyzed by Western blotting using a serine 1177 phosphosite-specific antibody. Bioactive NO production was assessed by determination of cGMP content in rat lung fibroblasts (RFL-6) reporter cells. Short-term incubation of EA.hy 926 cells with BA resulted in eNOS phosphorylation at the serine 1177 residue in a concentration- and time-dependent manner with a half-maximal effective concentration of 0.57 µM. This was associated with an enhanced production of NO. BA-induced eNOS phosphorylation and NO production was completely blocked by pretreatment with ICI 182,780, and was attenuated by pretreatment with the PI3K inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002. These results indicate that fast non-genomic effects of ER with downstream signaling through the PI3K/Akt pathway and consecutive eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177 are involved in BA-induced eNOS activation.
Recent Advances in Metal-Free Quinoline Synthesis
Authors: Ramann Ginelle , Cowen Bryan
Published: July 2016

The quinoline ring system is one of the most ubiquitous heterocycles in the fields of medicinal and industrial chemistry, forming the scaffold for compounds of great significance. These include anti-inflammatory and antitumor agents, the antimalarial drugs quinine and chloroquine, and organic light-emitting diodes. Quinolines were first synthesized in 1879, and since then a multitude of synthetic routes have been developed. Many of these methods, such as the Skraup, Doebner–Von Miller, and Friedlander quinoline syntheses, are well-known but suffer from inefficiency, harsh reaction conditions, and toxic reagents. This review focuses on recent transition metal-free processes toward these important heterocycles, including both novel routes and modifications to established methods. For example, variations on the Skraup method include microwave irradiation, ionic liquid media, and novel annulation partners, all of which have shown increased reaction efficiency and improved yield of the heteroring-unsubstituted quinoline products. Similarly, modifications to other synthetic routes have been implemented, with the quinoline products displaying a wide variety of substitution patterns.
In Vitro Neuroprotective and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural and Semi-Synthetic Spirosteroid Analogues
Authors: García-Pupo Laura , Zaldo-Castro Armando , Exarchou Vassiliki , Tacoronte-Morales Juan , Pieters Luc , Vanden Berghe Wim , Nuñez-Figueredo Yanier , Delgado-Hernández René
Published: July 2016

Two spirosteroid analogues were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro neuroprotective activities in PC12 cells, against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and mitochondrial damage in glucose deprivation conditions, as well as their anti-inflammatory potential in LPS/IFNγ-stimulated microglia primary cultures. We also evaluated the in vitro anti-excitotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities of natural and endogenous steroids. Our results show that the plant-derived steroid solasodine decreased PC12 glutamate-induced excitotoxicity, but not the cell death induced by mitochondrial damage and glucose deprivation. Among the two synthetic spirosteroid analogues, only the (25R)-5α-spirostan-3,6-one (S15) protected PC12 against ischemia-related in vitro models and inhibited NO production, as well as the release of IL-1β by stimulated primary microglia. These findings provide further insights into the role of specific modifications of the A and B rings of sapogenins for their neuroprotective potential.
Chemical Composition and Inhibitory Effect of Lentinula edodes Ethanolic Extract on Experimentally Induced Atopic Dermatitis in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Choi Eun-Ju , Park Zee-Yong , Kim Eun-Kyung
Published: July 2016

The ethanolic extract of Lentinula edodes was partially analyzed and then characterized for its efficacy in treating atopic dermatitis. Polyphenols were determined to be the major antioxidant component in the extract (6.12 mg/g), followed by flavonoids (1.76 mg/g), β-carotene (28.75 μg/g), and lycopene (5.25 μg/g). An atopic dermatitis (AD) model was established and epidermal and dermal ear thickness, mast cell infiltration, and serum immunoglobulin levels were measured after oral administration of the L. edodes extract for 4 weeks. L. edodes extract decreased Dermatophagoides farinae extract (DFE) and 4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced expression of several inflammatory cytokines in the ears, cervical lymph nodes, and splenocytes. Consequently, L. edodes extract may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of AD attributable to its immunomodulatory effects.
Green Synthesis of Hierarchically Structured Silver-Polymer Nanocomposites with Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Hortigüela María , Yuste Luis , Rojo Fernando , Aranaz Inmaculada
Published: July 2016

The in situ formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) aided by chondroitin sulfate and the preparation of a hierarchically structured silver-polymer nanocomposite with antimicrobial activity is shown. Green synthesis of AgNPs is carried out by thermal treatment (80 and 90 °C) or UV irradiation of a chondroitin sulfate solution containing AgNO3 without using any further reducing agents or stabilizers. Best control of the AgNPs size and polydispersity was achieved by UV irradiation. The ice-segregation-induced self-assembly (ISISA) process, in which the polymer solution containing the AgNPs is frozen unidirectionally, and successively freeze-drying were employed to produce the chondroitin sulfate 3D scaffolds. The scaffolds were further crosslinked with hexamethylene diisocyanate vapors to avoid water solubility of the 3D structures in aqueous environments. The antimicrobial activity of the scaffolds was tested against Escherichia coli. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) found for AgNPs-CS (chondroitin sulfate) scaffolds was ca. 6 ppm.
Emerging Evidence for the Importance of Dietary Protein Source on Glucoregulatory Markers and Type 2 Diabetes: Different Effects of Dairy, Meat, Fish, Egg, and Plant Protein Foods
Authors: Comerford Kevin , Pasin Gonca
Published: July 2016

Observational studies provide evidence that a higher intake of protein from plant-based foods and certain animal-based foods is associated with a lower risk for type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, there are few distinguishable differences between the glucoregulatory qualities of the proteins in plant-based foods, and it is likely their numerous non-protein components (e.g., fibers and phytochemicals) that drive the relationship with T2DM risk reduction. Conversely, the glucoregulatory qualities of the proteins in animal-based foods are extremely divergent, with a higher intake of certain animal-based protein foods showing negative effects, and others showing neutral or positive effects on T2DM risk. Among the various types of animal-based protein foods, a higher intake of dairy products (such as milk, yogurt, cheese and whey protein) consistently shows a beneficial relationship with glucose regulation and/or T2DM risk reduction. Intervention studies provide evidence that dairy proteins have more potent effects on insulin and incretin secretion compared to other commonly consumed animal proteins. In addition to their protein components, such as insulinogenic amino acids and bioactive peptides, dairy products also contain a food matrix rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, trans-palmitoleic fatty acids, and low-glycemic index sugars—all of which have been shown to have beneficial effects on aspects of glucose control, insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity and/or T2DM risk. Furthermore, fermentation and fortification of dairy products with probiotics and vitamin D may improve a dairy product’s glucoregulatory effects.