bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Adolescents Born Preterm
Authors: Sipola-Leppänen Marika , Vääräsmäki Marja , Tikanmäki Marjaana , Hovi Petteri , Miettola Satu , Ruokonen Aimo , Pouta Anneli , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Kajantie Eero
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

Adolescents and adults born as small preterm infants show more pronounced risk factors of cardiovascular disease. Whether similar risks apply across all degrees of preterm birth is poorly known.

METHODS:

We studied the association between preterm birth and cardiovascular risk factors in 6642 16-year-old adolescents of the population-based Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986. Of these, 79 (1.2%) were born at <34 gestational weeks (early preterm), 238 (3.6%) at 34 to 36 weeks (late preterm), and 6325 at term (controls).

RESULTS:

Girls born early preterm had 6.7 mm Hg (95% confidence interval: 3.1–10.2) higher systolic blood pressure (BP) and 3.5 mm Hg (1.1–5.8) higher diastolic BP, but no difference in serum lipid levels compared with control girls. Boys showed no differences in BP, but boys born early preterm had 6.7% (0.2%–13.7%) higher total cholesterol, 11.7% (2.1%–22.3%) higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and 12.3% (3.1%–22.4%) higher apolipoprotein B concentrations. The differences were similar (BP) or stronger (lipids) when adjusted for maternal smoking, birth weight SD score, parental education, pubertal stage, BMI, and lifestyle. There were similar associations with length of gestation as a continuous variable. Accordingly, mean differences between late preterm and controls were in the same direction but weaker, although most were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS:

Preterm birth was associated with elevated BP in adolescent girls and an atherogenic lipid profile in boys. Because these associations were strongest among those born early preterm, our findings are consistent with a dose-response relationship between shorter length of gestation and cardiovascular risk factors.
Breastfeeding and Risk of Infections at 6 Years
Authors: Li Ruowei , Dee Deborah , Li Chuan-Ming , Hoffman Howard J. , Grummer-Strawn Laurence M.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

Previous studies have shown that breastfeeding is associated with reductions in the risk of common infections among infants; however, whether breastfeeding confers longer term protection is inconclusive.

METHODS:

We linked data from the 2005–2007 IFPS II (Infant Feeding Practices Study II) and follow-up data collected when the children were 6 years old. Multivariable logistic regression was used, controlling for sociodemographic variables, to examine associations of initiation, duration, exclusivity of breastfeeding, timing of supplementing breastfeeding with formula, and breast milk intensity (proportion of milk feedings that were breast milk from age 0–6 months) with maternal reports of infection (cold/upper respiratory tract, ear, throat, sinus, pneumonia/lung, and urinary) and sick visits in the past year among 6-year-olds (N = 1281).

RESULTS:

The most common past-year infections were colds/upper respiratory tract (66%), ear (25%), and throat (24%) infections. No associations were found between breastfeeding and colds/upper respiratory tract, lung, or urinary tract infections. Prevalence of ear, throat, and sinus infections and number of sick visits differed according to breastfeeding duration, exclusivity, and timing of supplementing breastfeeding with formula (P < .05). Among children ever breastfed, children breastfed for ≥9 months had lower odds of past-year ear (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.69 [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.48–0.98]), throat (aOR: 0.68 [95% CI: 0.47–0.98]), and sinus (aOR: 0.47 [95% CI: 0.30–0.72]) infections compared with those breastfed >0 to <3 months. High breast milk intensity (>66.6%) during the first 6 months was associated with lower odds of sinus infection compared with low breast milk intensity (<33.3%) (aOR: 0.53 [95% CI: 0.35–0.79]).

CONCLUSIONS:

This prospective longitudinal study suggests that breastfeeding may protect against ear, throat, and sinus infections well beyond infancy.
Breastfeeding Duration Is Associated With Child Diet at 6 Years
Authors: Perrine Cria G. , Galuska Deborah A. , Thompson Frances E. , Scanlon Kelley S.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Breastfeeding has been associated with early infant food preferences, but less is known about how breastfeeding is associated with later child diet. The objective of this study was to assess whether any and exclusive breastfeeding duration are associated with child diet at 6 years.

METHODS:

We linked data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II and Year 6 Follow-Up. We used approximately monthly questionnaires throughout infancy to calculate any and exclusive breastfeeding duration (n = 1355). We calculated median daily frequency of intake of water, milk, 100% juice, fruits, vegetables, sugar-sweetened beverages, sweets, and savory snacks at 6 years from a dietary screener and examined frequency of consumption of each food or beverage group by any and exclusive breastfeeding duration. We used separate multivariable logistic regression models to calculate odds of consuming more than the median daily frequency of intake of food or beverage items, adjusting for confounders.

RESULTS:

Intake of milk, sweets, and savory snacks at 6 years was not associated with any or exclusive breastfeeding duration in unadjusted analyses. Frequency of consumption of water, fruits, and vegetables was positively associated, and intake of sugar-sweetened beverages was inversely associated with any and exclusive breastfeeding duration in adjusted models; 100% juice consumption was inversely associated with exclusive breastfeeding duration only.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among many other health benefits, breastfeeding is associated with a number of healthier dietary behaviors at age 6. The association between breastfeeding and child diet may be an important factor to consider when examining associations between breastfeeding and child obesity and chronic diseases.
Tsunami wave and structure interaction: an investigation with smoothed-particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Cunningham Lee S. , Rogers Benedict D , Pringgana Gede
Published: September 2014

Numerical modelling by the meshless method of smoothed-particle hydrodynamics can offer quantification of tsunami wave pressures at a greater level of detail and accuracy than existing empirical methods, enabling more effective design solutions to be derived. In this paper, smoothed-particle hydrodynamics modelling of tsunami wave and structure interaction is undertaken to derive the time histories of wave pressure distributions, which can then be used by way of finite-element software to evaluate the structural response. In a series of comparative studies with physical models, the numerical results show good agreement with the experimental data. The research in this paper forms part of a wider investigation that aims to address the issue of improving resilience of shore-based structures in tsunami events.
Deposit‐feeder diets in the Bering Sea: potential effects of climatic loss of sea ice‐related microalgal blooms
Authors: North Christopher A. , Lovvorn James R. , Kolts Jason M. , Brooks Marjorie L. , Cooper Lee W. , Grebmeier Jacqueline M.
Published: September 2014

Climate warming in seasonally ice‐covered seas is expected to reduce the extent and duration of annual sea ice. Resulting changes in sea ice related blooms of ice algae or phytoplankton may in turn alter the timing, magnitude, or quality of organic matter inputs to the sea floor. If benthic taxa rely differently on direct consumption of settling fresh microalgae for growth and reproduction, altered blooms may lead to reorganization of deposit‐feeding assemblages. To assess the potential for such changes, we examined the diets of five abundant deposit‐feeders (three infaunal bivalves, a polychaete, and a brittle star) with different feeding modes over the course of the spring bloom in May–June 2007 in the north‐central Bering Sea (30–90 m depth). Short‐term data from gut contents reflected feeding modes, with the bivalvesMacoma calcarea,Ennucula tenuis, andNuculana radiata, and the brittle starOphiura sarsi, responding more quickly to deposition of fresh algae than did the head‐down polychaetePectinaria hyperborea. Fatty acid biomarkers also indicated rapid ingestion of settling algae by the bivalves (especiallyMacoma) and the brittle star, whilePectinariacontinued to ingest mainly bacteria. Fatty acid biomarkers did not indicate any unique dietary importance of ice algae released from melting ice. Longer‐term inference from stable isotopes suggested that fresh microalgae contributed little to overall carbon assimilated by any of these species. Instead, deposit‐feeders appeared to select a consistent fraction from the pool of sediment organic matter, probably heterotrophic microbes, microbial products, and reworked phytodetritus that form a longer‐term sediment “food bank.” Redistribution of settled organic matter via scouring and accumulation by currents, as well as the multi‐year life spans of macroinvertebrates, may further overwhelm effects of short‐term variations in the timing, magnitude, and dispersion of blooms in the water column. More diet data are needed from midsummer to account for any lag in assimilation of fresh microalgae at these cold temperatures. Nevertheless, our results suggest that if annual sea ice cover is reduced, increased production of phytoplankton during longer ice‐free periods could replace inputs of ice‐associated microalgae to the sediment food bank used by deposit‐feeders.
Evidence of soil nutrient availability as the proximate constraint on growth of treeline trees in northwest Alaska
Authors: Sullivan Patrick F. , Ellison Sarah B. Z. , McNown Robert W. , Brownlee Annalis H. , Sveinbjörnsson Bjartmar
Published: September 2014

The position of the Arctic treeline, which is a key regulator of surface energy exchange and carbon cycling, is widely thought to be controlled by temperature. Here, we present evidence that soil nutrient availability, rather than temperature, may be the proximate control on growth of treeline trees at our study site in northwest Alaska. We examined constraints on growth and allocation of white spruce in three contrasting habitats. The habitats had similar aboveground climates, but soil temperature declined from the riverside terrace to the forest to the treeline. We identified six lines of evidence that conflict with the hypothesis of direct temperature control and/or point to the importance of soil nutrient availability. First, the magnitude of aboveground growth declined from the terrace to the forest to the treeline, along gradients of diminishing soil nitrogen (N) availability and needle N concentration. Second, peak rates of branch extension, main stem radial and fine‐root growth were generally not coincident with seasonal air and soil temperature maxima. At the treeline, in particular, rates of aboveground and fine‐root growth declined well before air and soil temperatures reached their seasonal peaks. Third, in contrast with the hypothesis of temperature‐limited growth, growing season average net photosynthesis was positively related to the sum of normalized branch extension, main stem radial and fine‐root growth across trees and sites. Fourth, needle nonstructural carbohydrate concentration was significantly higher on the terrace, where growth was greatest. Fifth, annual branch extension growth was positively related to snow depth, consistent with the hypothesis that deeper snow promotes microbial activity and greater soil nutrient availability. Finally, the tree ring record revealed a large growth increase during late 20th‐century climate warming on the terrace, where soil N availability is relatively high. Meanwhile, trees in the forest and at the treeline showed progressively smaller growth increases. Our results suggest temperature effects on tree growth at our study sites may be mediated by soil nutrient availability, making responses to climate change more complex and our ability to interpret the tree ring record more challenging than previously thought.
A feasibility analysis of replacing the standard ammonia refrigeration device with the cascade NH3/CO2 refrigeration device in the food industry
Authors: Jankovich Dennis , Osman Kresimir
Published: September 2014

The thermodynamic analysis demonstrates the feasibility of replacing the
standard ammonia refrigeration device with the cascade NH3/CO2 refrigeration
device in the food industry. The main reason for replacement is to reduce the
total amount of ammonia in spaces like deep-freezing chambers, daily
chambers, working rooms and technical passageways. An ammonia-contaminated
area is hazardous to human health and the safety of food products. Therefore
the preferred reduced amount of ammonia is accumulated in the Central
Refrigeration Engine Room, where the cascade NH3/CO2 device is installed as
well. Furthermore, the analysis discusses and compares two left Carnot?s
refrigeration cycles, one for the standard ammonia device and the other for
the cascade NH3/CO2 device. Both cycles are processes with two-stage
compression and two-stage throttling. The thermodynamic analysis demonstrates
that the selected refrigeration cycle is the most cost-effective process
because it provides the best numerical values for the total refrigeration
factor with respect to the observed refrigeration cycle. The chief analyzed
influential parameters of the cascade device are: total refrigeration load,
total reactive power, mean temperature of the heat exchanger, evaporating and
condensing temperature of the low-temperature part.
Unsteady mixed convection in a porous media filled lid-driven cavity heated by a semi-circular heaters
Authors: Rahman M.M. , Öztop Hakan , Saidur R. , Mekhilef S. , Al-Salem Khaled
Published: September 2014

A computational study has been performed on natural convection heat transfer
and fluid flow in a porous media filled enclosure with semi-circular heaters
by using finite element method. The ceiling of the cavity moves with a
constant velocity and it is insulated. Temperature of vertical walls is lower
than that of heaters. Results are presented via streamlines, isotherms,
average Nusselt numbers and cross sectional velocity for different governing
parameters such as Richardson number, Darcy number and dimensionless time. It
is observed that both circulation of the flow and heat transfer is strongly
affected with time increment and Darcy number inside the cavity.
Solidarity and the Market in the Area of Insurance Schemes
Authors: Ondelj Ivona
Published: September 2014

The text provides a detailed analysis of the significance and role of the principle of solidarity in compulsory and supplementary insurance schemes. The analysis is focused on solidarity as the benchmark when deciding on the applicability or non-applicability of the rules on effective competition on the market in the EU. The principle of solidarity is closely linked to the objectives of social policy, which demand special treatment in the intense market arena. The selected interpretations of the Court of Justice of the EU carry great importance, considering the discretion of Member States in the area of social policy. The text provides an elaboration and final remarks concerning the principle of solidarity which is able to shelter (more or less) the provision of insurance services in the EU.
Downregulation of KDR expression induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Ge Yin-Lin , Zhang Shu-Ping , Yan Ping , Tian Run-Hua
Published: September 2014

Angiogenesis plays a crucial role in the growth, invasion and metastasis of breast cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors (VEGFRs) are the key regulators of tumor angiogenesis. VEGFR-2, known as the kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), is a key receptor involved in malignant angiogenesis. We previously showed that knocking down KDR with short interference RNA (KDR-siRNA) markedly decreased KDR expression and suppressed tumor growth in a xenograft model. However, the mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of KDR-siRNA are not clearly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that induce apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells after transfection with KDR-siRNA. We studied the effects of KDR-siRNA on proliferation, apoptosis, antiapoptotic and pro-apoptotic proteins, mitochondrial membrane permeability, cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activity. The results indicated that KDR-siRNA treatment significantly inhibited the proliferation and induced the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells, reduced the levels of the anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, and increased the level of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax, resulting in a decreased Bcl-2/Bax ratio. KDR-siRNA also enhanced the mitochondrial membrane permeability, induced cytochrome c release from the mitochondria, upregulated apoptotic protease-activating factor-1 (Apaf-1), cleaved caspase-3, and increased caspase-3 activity in MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, KDR-siRNA-induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells was blocked by the caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK, suggesting a role of caspase activation in the induction of apoptosis. These results indicate that the Bcl-2 family proteins and caspase-related mitochondrial pathways are primarily involved in KDR-siRNAinduced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells and that KDR might be a potential therapeutic target for human breast cancer treatments.
Adsorption, chemisorption, and catalysis
Authors: Králik Milan
Published: September 2014

A short history of the relationships among adsorption, chemisorption, and catalysis with solid catalysts is reviewed. A special focus is on the development of quality and descriptions accuracy using computers, both for the modeling of elementary physical phenomena and adsorption, as well as for the solution of more complex problems like quantum chemical approach to chemisorption, kinetics over solid catalysts, and reactor systems. Modern approaches to the characterization of solid catalysts from the adsorption-desorption data based mainly on n-layer adsorption and non-linear three parameter BET isotherm regarding the volume of micropores as one of the parameters are demonstrated. Instrumentation techniques like infrared spectroscopy or NMR techniques for the analysis of the strength of component chemisorption are mentioned. As for the kinetics, a vague capability of the Langmuir-Hinshelwood-Hougen-Watson models to describe a reaction system in more complicated cases, e.g. bimolecular surface reactions, is discussed. In this context, the simplest model with a minimum number of parameters is advised. To estimate the most realistic values, intrinsic reaction kinetic and mass transport phenomena are taken into account. Usefulness of quantum mechanistic models for better understanding of the catalytic phenomena and more efficient design of catalysts are outlined.
Estimating the number of components in an OSL decay curve using the Bayesian Information Criterion
Authors: Peng Jun , Dong Zhibao , Han Fengqing , Han Yuanhong , Dai Xueling
Published: September 2014

The optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) decay curve is assumed to consist of a number of first-order exponential components. Improper estimation of the number of components leads to under-or over-fitting of the curve under consideration. Hence, correct estimation of the number of components is important to accurately analyze an OSL decay curve. In this study, we investigated the possibility of using the Bayesian Information Criterion to estimate the optimal number of components in an OSL decay curve. We tested the reliability of this method using several hundred measured decay curves and three simulation scenarios. Our results demonstrate that the quality of the identification can be influenced by several factors: the measurement time and the number of channels; the variability of the decay constants; and the signal-to-noise ratios of a decaying component. The results also suggest that the Bayesian Information Criterion has great potential to estimate the number of components in an OSL decay curve with a moderate to high signal-to-noise ratio.
Comparing different post-IR IRSL approaches for the dating of Holocene coastal foredunes from Ruhnu Island, Estonia
Authors: Preusser Frank , Muru Merle , Rosentau Alar
Published: September 2014

Different post-IR Infrared Stimulated Luminescence (IRSL) approaches are applied to sediments from a Holocene coastal foredune sequence on Ruhnu Island in the eastern Baltic Sea. The comparison of D
e-values and ages determined by the different approaches is complimented by fading and bleaching experiments. The fading experiments imply strong fading of IRSL (50°C) signals and no fading of any of the post-IR IRSL signals, but this is not confirmed by the determined D
e-values. In fact, post-IR IRSL (150°C) D
e-values agree within errors with those calculated for IRSL (50°C). From the bleaching experiments it is inferred that the higher values observed for post-IR IRSL at more elevated stimulation temperatures (225°C/290°C) are likely related to either thermal transfer and/or slow-to-bleach components within the signal. For the dating of the Holocene foredune sequence of Ruhnu Island, the post-IR IRSL (150°C) approach is preferred and these agree with the limited independent age control available from radiocarbon dating. Accordingly, the sequence formed between ca. 7.0 ka and 2.5 ka ago.
Hydroxyapatite growth on cotton fibers modified chemically
Authors: Varela Caselis J. , Reyes Cervantes E. , Landeta Cortés G. , Agustín Serrano R. , Rubio Rosas E.
Published: September 2014

We have prepared carboxymethyl cellulose fibers (CMC) by chemically modifying cotton cellulose with monochloroacetic acid and calcium chloride solution. This modification favored the growth of hydroxyapatite (HAP) on the surface of the CMC fibers in contact with simulated body fluid solutions (SBF). After soaking in SBF for periods of 7, 14 and 21 days, formation of HAP was observed. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction showed that crystallinity, crystallite size, and growth of HAP increased with the soaking time. The amount of HAP deposited on CMC fibers increased greatly after 21 days of immersion in the SBF, while the substrate surface was totally covered with hemispherical aggregates with the size of the order of 2 microns. Elemental analysis showed the presence of calcium and phosphate, with calcium/phosphate atomic ratio of 1.54. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy bands confirmed the presence of HAP. The results suggest that cotton modified by calcium treatment has a nucleating ability and can accelerate the nucleation of HAP crystals.
Effect of substrate temperature and precursor ratio on properties of thin ZnS films sprayed by improved method
Authors: Zaware Rangnath , Wagh Bhiva
Published: September 2014

Zinc sulphide (ZnS) thin films were prepared by improved spray pyrolysis (ISP) method. The ISP parameters, such as carrier gas flow rate, solution flow rate and substrate temperature, were controlled with an accuracy of ±0.25 lpm, ±1 ml/h and ±1 °C, respectively. The solution was sprayed in a pulsed mode. The substrate temperature was optimized by analyzing substrate temperature dependent properties of thin films. The thin film deposited at a temperature of 450 °C was dense and fairly smooth with satisfactory crystallinity and very small impurity content. The effect of precursor ratio in the solution on structural, compositional and optical properties of thin ZnS films, deposited at a temperature of 450 °C, was studied. A gradual increase in band gap energy from 3.524 eV to 3.634 eV, refractive index from 2.5 to 2.9 and dielectric constant from 6.6 to 8.7 were observed with the variation of solution precursor (Zn:S) ratio from (1:2) to (1:6). The structural and compositional studies support this kind of enhancement in optical properties. The results show that the thin ZnS film prepared by ISP at the substrate temperature of 450 °C from a solution with specific precursor ratio can be used for optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications.
On approximation by Function having a strong Entropy Point
Authors: Korczak-Kubiak Ewa , Ryszard J. Pawlak
Published: September 2014

The paper deals with approximation of functions from the unit interval into itself by means of functions having strong entropy point. For this purpose we define a family of functions having the fixed point property: ConnC (which is a subfamily of the class Conn introduced in [Korczak-Kubiak. E.. Paw- lak. R.J.: Trajectories, first return limiting notions and rings of H-connected and iteratively H-connected functions. Czechoslovak Math. J. 63 (2013). 679-700]). The main result of the paper Is a theorem saying that for any function ƒ ∈ ConnC and any point x0 ∈ Fix(ƒ) there exists a ring R ⊂ ConnC containing function ƒ and in the intersection of any “graph neighbourhood of ƒ” and “neighbourhood of ƒ in topology of uniform convergence”, one can find functions ξ,Ψ ∈ R having a strong entropy point y0 located close to the point x0 and being a discontinuity point of the function ξ and a continuity point of the function Ψ.
Microscopic Sets with Respect to Sequences of Functions
Authors: Horbaczewska Grażyna
Published: September 2014

Consequences of replacing the geometric sequence with another in the definition of microscopic sets are considered
Separate and Joint Properties of some Analogues of Pointwise Discontinuity
Authors: Nesterenko Vasyl’
Published: September 2014

We study separate and joint properties of pointwise discontinuity, simple continuity and mild continuity of functions of two variables. In particular, it is shown that for a Baire space X, aBaire space Y which has a countable pseudobase and for a metric space Z, a function ƒ : X×Y → Z is pointwise discontinuous if and only if f satisfies (α, β)-condition and condition (C), and M = {x ∊ X : C(ƒx) = Y } is a residual subset of X. In addition, a characterization of simple continuity for mappings of one and two variables is given
The treatment of superior semicircular canal dehiscence
Authors: Castellucci Andrea , Piras Gianluca , Brandolini Cristina , Pirodda Antonio , Modugno Giovanni Carlo
Published: September 2014

Objective:

This paper reviews the principal surgical strategies proposed in the literature in approaching the Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome. It examines the controversies regarding each treatment modality including surgical indications, procedures and the main outcomes.

Design:

A systematic literature research was conducted using a number of resources including electronic databases, books and websites. Relevant citations from current publications were also followed up.

Results:

Two principal types of surgical procedure for the treatment of superior canal dehiscence were identified: canal plugging and resurfacing. Each can be performed by both a middle cranial fossa (MCF) and transmastoid (TM) approach. An alternative and less invasive option to treat this pathological condition, without repairing the underlying lesion, has recently emerged from the literature: the round window (RW) niche reinforcement through a transmeatal approach.

Conclusions:

All the reported techniques represent reliable and effective solutions in cases of intolerable symptoms; nevertheless, the controversies still present about the pathophysiological changes linked to dehiscence reflect the difficulties in proposing a universal method of treatment. It is, therefore, probable that a more prolonged knowledge of this affection is necessary to fully understand all its implications.
Novel preparation of a porous composite insulating scaffold from forsterite and sodium carbonate media
Authors: Ding Jun , Deng Chengji , Zhu Hongxi , Zhang Xiaojun , Guo Ding
Published: September 2014

Porous composite insulating scaffolds were prepared from mixtures of forsterite, salt (Na2CO3), and phenolic resin by sintering at 900 to 1 100 °C for 10 h, and the sintering behaviour and mechanical properties were examined. The results show that the changes in temperature did not significantly affect the phases present in the samples. However, changing the Na2CO3 content of a sample will change its phase composition. When the Na2CO3 content was 40 wt.% and sintering undertaken at 1 000 °C, the apparent porosity of the sample was 57 %, and its strength was 3.1 MPa. The large number of pores in the samples had diameters of approximately one micron, while the mesopores had diameters concentrated over the interval of 3 to 5 nm.
Interrelationships of defects, nitride modification and excess nitrogen in nitrided Fe-4.75 at.% Al alloy
Authors: Meka Sai Ramudu , Bischoff Ewald , Hosmani Santosh S. , Mittemeijer Eric Jan
Published: September 2014

In order to investigate the influence of crystal-lattice defects (dislocations) and of a relatively large Al content on the development of different modifications of aluminium nitride in ferrite and on the associated uptake of excess nitrogen, recrystallised and cold rolled specimens of Fe-4.75 at.% Al alloy were subjected to gaseous nitriding treatments at 550 °C employing a nitriding potential of 0.104 atm−1/2. In contrast with earlier results for an alloy of relatively low Al content, in both the nitrided cold rolled and the nitrided recrystallised specimens nanosized AlN precipitates developed, both of the metastable, cubic, NaCl type modification and of the stable, hexagonal, wurtzite type modification, which exhibit with the ferrite matrix a Baker–Nutting orientation relationship and a Pitsch–Schrader orientation relationship, respectively. A high-temperature hydrogen reduction treatment confirmed the stoichiometry of the precipitated nitrides as AlN. The fraction of cubic, NaCl type, AlN is significantly higher in the nitrided cold-rolled specimens because of its preferential development along dislocations. As compared to the nitrided recrystallised specimens, the higher dislocation density and the higher amount of cubic AlN in the nitrided cold-rolled specimens leads to a larger amount of excess nitrogen in the nitrided cold-rolled specimen.
Expression Profiling of Exosomal miRNAs Derived from Human Esophageal Cancer Cells by Solexa High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Liao Juan , Liu Ran , Yin Lihong , Pu Yuepu
Published: September 2014

Cellular genetic materials, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), mRNAs and proteins, are packaged inside exosomes, small membrane vesicles of endocytic origin that are released into the extracellular environment. These cellular genetic materials can be delivered into recipient cells, where they exert their respective biological effects. However, the miRNA profiles and biological functions of exosomes secreted by cancer cells remain unknown. The present study explored the miRNA expression profile and distribution characteristics of exosomes derived from human esophageal cancer cells through Solexa high-throughput sequencing. Results showed that 56,421 (2.94%) unique sequences in cells and 7727 (0.63%) in exosomes matched known miRNAs. A total of 342 and 48 known miRNAs were identified in cells and exosomes, respectively. Moreover, 64 and 32 novel miRNAs were predicted in cells and exosomes, respectively. Significant differences in miRNA expression profiles were found between human esophageal cancer cells and exosomes. These findings provided new insights into the characteristics of miRNAs in exosomes derived from human esophageal cancer cells and the specific roles of miRNAs in intercellular communication mediated by exosomes in esophageal cancer.
Microstructural Analysis and Rheological Modeling of Asphalt Mixtures Containing Recycled Asphalt Materials
Authors: Falchetto Augusto , Moon Ki , Wistuba Michael
Published: September 2014

The use of recycled materials in pavement construction has seen, over the years, a significant increase closely associated with substantial economic and environmental benefits. During the past decades, many transportation agencies have evaluated the effect of adding Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP), and, more recently, Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS) on the performance of asphalt pavement, while limits were proposed on the amount of recycled materials which can be used. In this paper, the effect of adding RAP and RAS on the microstructural and low temperature properties of asphalt mixtures is investigated using digital image processing (DIP) and modeling of rheological data obtained with the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR). Detailed information on the internal microstructure of asphalt mixtures is acquired based on digital images of small beam specimens and numerical estimations of spatial correlation functions. It is found that RAP increases the autocorrelation length (ACL) of the spatial distribution of aggregates, asphalt mastic and air voids phases, while an opposite trend is observed when RAS is included. Analogical and semi empirical models are used to back-calculate binder creep stiffness from mixture experimental data. Differences between back-calculated results and experimental data suggest limited or partial blending between new and aged binder.
Peptides Derived from Rhopilema esculentum Hydrolysate Exhibit Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitory and Antioxidant Abilities
Authors: Li Jun , Li Qian , Li Jingyun , Zhou Bei
Published: September 2014

Jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum) was hydrolyzed using alcalase, and two peptides with angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and antioxidant activities were purified by ultrafiltration and consecutive chromatographic methods. The amino acid sequences of the two peptides were identified as VKP (342 Da) and VKCFR (651 Da) by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The IC50 values of ACE inhibitory activities of the two peptides were 1.3 μM and 34.5 μM, respectively. Molecular docking results suggested that VKP and VKCFR bind to ACE through coordinating with the active site Zn(II) atom. Free radical scavenging activity and protection against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced rat cerebral microvascular endothelial cell (RCMEC) injury were used to evaluate the antioxidant activities of the two peptides. As the results clearly showed that the peptides increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) activities in RCMEC cells), it is proposed that the R. esculentum peptides exert significant antioxidant effects.
A One-Pot Approach to Pyridyl Isothiocyanates from Amines
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Rui-Quan , Liu Ke-Chang , Li Qi-Bo , Li Qing-Yang , Liu Shang-Zhong
Published: September 2014

A one-pot preparation of pyridyl isothiocyanates (ITCs) from their corresponding amines has been developed. This method involves aqueous iron(III) chloride-mediated desulfurization of a dithiocarbamate salt that is generated in situ by treatment of an amine with carbon disulfide in the present of DABCO or sodium hydride. The choice of base is of decisive importance for the formation of the dithiocarbamate salts. This one-pot process works well for a wide range of pyridyl ITCs. Utilizing this protocol, some highly electron-deficient pyridyl and aryl ITCs are obtained in moderate to good yields.
Inclusion of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles into Virus-Like Peptide Nanocapsules Self-Assembled from Viral β-Annulus Peptide
Authors: Fujita Seiya , Matsuura Kazunori
Published: September 2014

A viral β-annulus peptide connected with a zinc oxide (ZnO)-binding sequence (HCVAHR) at its N-terminal was synthesized, and the inclusion behavior of quantum-sized ZnO nanoparticles into the peptide nanocapsules formed by self-assembly of the peptide in water was investigated. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements showed that ZnO nanoparticles (approximately 10 nm) in the presence of the peptide (0.1 mM) formed assemblies with an average size of 48 ± 24 nm, whereas ZnO nanoparticles in the absence of the peptide formed large aggregates. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations of the ZnO nanoparticles in the presence of the peptide revealed that ZnO nanoparticles were encapsulated into the peptide nanocapsules with a size of approximately 50 nm. Fluorescence spectra of a mixture of the peptide and ZnO nanoparticles suggested that the ZnO surface and the peptide interact. Template synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles with the peptide nanocapsules afforded larger nanoparticles (approximately 40 nm), which are not quantum-sized ZnO.
The Role of Sweet Taste in Satiation and Satiety
Authors: Low Yu , Lacy Kathleen , Keast Russell
Published: September 2014

Increased energy consumption, especially increased consumption of sweet energy-dense food, is thought to be one of the main contributors to the escalating rates in overweight individuals and obesity globally. The individual’s ability to detect or sense sweetness in the oral cavity is thought to be one of many factors influencing food acceptance, and therefore, taste may play an essential role in modulating food acceptance and/or energy intake. Emerging evidence now suggests that the sweet taste signaling mechanisms identified in the oral cavity also operate in the gastrointestinal system and may influence the development of satiety. Understanding the individual differences in detecting sweetness in both the oral and gastrointestinal system towards both caloric sugar and high intensity sweetener and the functional role of the sweet taste system may be important in understanding the reasons for excess energy intake. This review will summarize evidence of possible associations between the sweet taste mechanisms within the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and the brain systems towards both caloric sugar and high intensity sweetener and sweet taste function, which may influence satiation, satiety and, perhaps, predisposition to being overweight and obesity.
Detection of Gully-Affected Areas by Applying Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) in the Region of Taroudannt, Morocco
Authors: D'Oleire-Oltmanns Sebastian , Marzolff Irene , Tiede Dirk , Blaschke Thomas
Published: September 2014

This study aims at the detection of gully-affected areas by applying object-based image analysis in the region of Taroudannt, Morocco, which is highly affected by gully erosion while simultaneously representing a major region of agro-industry with a high demand of arable land. As high-resolution optical satellite data are readily available from various sensors and with a much better temporal resolution than 3D terrain data, an area-wide mapping approach to extract gully-affected areas using only optical satellite imagery was developed. The methodology additionally incorporates expert knowledge and freely-available vector data in a cyclic object-based image analysis approach. This connects the two fields of geomorphology and remote sensing. The classification results show the successful implementation of the developed approach and allow conclusions on the current distribution of gullies. The results of the classification were checked against manually delineated reference data incorporating expert knowledge based on several field campaigns in the area, resulting in an overall classification accuracy of 62%. The error of omission accounts for 38% and the error of commission for 16%, respectively. Additionally, a manual assessment was carried out to assess the quality of the applied classification algorithm. The limited error of omission contributes with 23% to the overall error of omission and the limited error of commission contributes with 98% to the overall error of commission. This assessment improves the results and confirms the high quality of the developed approach for area-wide mapping of gully-affected areas in larger regions. In the field of landform mapping, the overall quality of the classification results is often assessed with more than one method to incorporate all aspects adequately.
Achieving a Good Life Time in a Vertical-Organic-Diode Gas Sensor
Authors: Dai Ming-Zhi , Chen Yen-Ho , Chuang Ming-Yen , Zan Hsiao-Wen , Meng Hsin-Fei
Published: September 2014

In this study, we investigate the keys to obtain a sensitive ammonia sensor with high air stability by using a low-cost polythiophene diode with a vertical channel and a porous top electrode. Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and air-stable poly(5,5'-bis(3-dodecyl-2-thienyl)-2,2'-bithiophene) (PQT-12) are both evaluated as the active sensing layer. Two-dimensional current simulation reveals that the proposed device exhibits numerous connected vertical nanometer junctions (VNJ). Due to the de-doping reaction between ammonia molecules and the bulk current flowing through the vertical channel, both PQT-12 and P3HT VNJ-diodes exhibit detection limits of 50-ppb ammonia. The P3HT VNJ-diode, however, becomes unstable after being stored in air for two days. On the contrary, the PQT-12 VNJ-diode keeps an almost unchanged response to 50-ppb ammonia after being stored in air for 25 days. The improved storage lifetime of an organic-semiconductor-based gas sensor in air is successfully demonstrated.
Detecting Both the Mass and Position of an Accreted Particle by a Micro/Nano-Mechanical Resonator Sensor
Authors: Zhang Yin , Liu Yun
Published: September 2014

In the application of a micro-/nano-mechanical resonator, the position of an accreted particle and the resonant frequencies are measured by two different physical systems. Detecting the particle position sometimes can be extremely difficult or even impossible, especially when the particle is as small as an atom or a molecule. Using the resonant frequencies to determine the mass and position of an accreted particle formulates an inverse problem. The Dirac delta function and Galerkin method are used to model and formulate an eigenvalue problem of a beam with an accreted particle. An approximate method is proposed by ignoring the off-diagonal elements of the eigenvalue matrix. Based on the approximate method, the mass and position of an accreted particle can be decoupled and uniquely determined by measuring at most three resonant frequencies. The approximate method is demonstrated to be very accurate when the particle mass is small, which is the application scenario for much of the mass sensing of micro-/nano-mechanical resonators. By solving the inverse problem, the position measurement becomes unnecessary, which is of some help to the mass sensing application of a micro-/nano-mechanical resonator by reducing two measurement systems to one. How to apply the method to the general scenario of multiple accreted particles is also discussed.
The Voice of the Child in Child Protection: Whose Voice?
Authors: Bruce Margaret
Published: September 2014

Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child outlines the rights of children to express their views in decisions affecting their lives. There is further evidence to support the positive benefits for children who are afforded this right. However, evidence shows that despite legislative and policy frameworks to support this, repeated messages from inquiry reports highlight failures to do so. This paper draws upon research undertaken in Scotland but the findings of the study are relevant across the UK and beyond. Child protection documentation including reports and case conference minutes were analysed to assess to what extent the child’s views were presented to, and considered in, decision making forums. In particular the study considers how the child’s views and wishes are represented in writing, and highlights the ways which professionals filtered and interpreted the child’s view rather than presented it in its pure form. Messages have emerged identifying a need for workers to be clear about the factors which influence their practice with children. These include the value they place on children’s participation, the skills and confidence needed to engage children with complex needs and the impact of competing tensions. One example of such a tension is that between the needs of busy workers, and those of children who are potentially involved in a range of decision making processes.
Understanding Density in an Uneven City, Santiago de Chile: Implications for Social and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Aquino Felipe , Gainza Xabier
Published: September 2014

Efforts to promote infill development and to raise densities are growing in many cities around the world as a way to encourage urban sustainability. However, in cities polarized along socio-economic lines, the benefits of densification are not so evident. The aim of this paper is to discuss some of the contradictions of densification in Santiago de Chile, a city characterized by socio-spatial disparities. To that end, we first use regression analysis to explain differences in density rates within the city. The regression analysis shows that dwelling density depends on the distance from the city center, socioeconomic conditions, and the availability of urban attributes in the area. After understanding the density profile, we discuss the implications for travel and the distribution of social infrastructures and the environmental services provided by green areas. While, at the metropolitan scale, densification may favor a more sustainable travel pattern, it should be achieved by balancing density rates and addressing spatial differences in the provision of social services and environmental amenities. We believe a metropolitan approach is essential to correct these spatial imbalances and to promote a more sustainable and socially cohesive growth pattern.
MR Imaging Monitoring of Iron-Labeled Pancreatic Islets in a Small Series of Patients: Islet Fate in Successful, Unsuccessful, and Autotransplantation
Authors: Malosio Maria Luisa , Esposito Antonio , Brigatti Cristina , Palmisano Anna , Piemonti Lorenzo , Nano Rita , Maffi Paola , De Cobelli Francesco , Del Maschio Alessandro , Secchi Antonio
Published: September 2014

Islet transplantation is one of the most promising and effective therapies for restoring normoglycemia in type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients, but islet engraftment is one of the main obstacles hampering long-term success. Monitoring graft loss, caused either by immunological or nonimmunological events, occurring in the first phase after transplantation and at later stages of a patient's life is a very important issue. Among the imaging approaches previously applied, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) monitoring of islet fate following labeling with superparamagnetic iron oxide agents yielded promising results. The aim of this study was to translate into patients the method of islet labeling and MRI monitoring developed in our preclinical setting and to compare imaging results with graft clinical outcome. Three T1D patients and one nondiabetic patient undergoing autotransplantation following subtotal pancreatectomy received Endorem®-labeled islets. Patients were monitored by MRI and metabolically (HbA1c, exogenous insulin requirement, and C-peptide, TEF) at 1, 3, and 7 days following transplantation and once a month up to 10 months. Labeled transplanted islets appeared as hypointense areas scattered within the liver parenchyma, whose absolute number at 24 h after transplantation reflected the labeling efficiency. In patients #1 and #3 with good midterm graft function, MRI follow-up showed an important early loss of hypointense spots followed by a slow and progressive disappearance at later timepoints. Graft loss of function in patient #2 4 weeks after transplantation was associated with the complete disappearance of all hypointense signals. The autotransplanted patient, stably insulin free, showed no significant signal reduction during the first 3 days, followed by loss of spots similar to a patient with good midterm graft function. These results suggest that MRI monitoring of islet transplantation at early time points could represent a meaningful readout for helping in predicting transplant failure or success, but its relevance for mid/long-term islet function assessment appears evanescent.