bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conductivity, Viscosity, Spectroscopic Properties of Organic Sulfonic Acid solutions in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Tran Anh T. , Tomlin Jay , Lam Phuoc H. , Stinger Brittany L. , Miller Alexandra D. , Walczyk Dustin J. , Cruz Omar , Vaden Timothy D. , Yu Lei
Published: October 2019

Sulfonic acids in ionic liquids (ILs) are used as catalysts, electrolytes, and solutions for metal extraction. The sulfonic acid ionization states and the solution acid/base properties are critical for these applications. Methane sulfonic acid (MSA) and camphor sulfonic acid (CSA) are dissolved in several IL solutions with and without bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imine (HTFSI). The solutions demonstrated higher conductivities and lower viscosities. Through calorimetry and temperature-dependent conductivity analysis, we found that adding MSA to the IL solution may change both the ion migration activation energy and the number of “free” charge carriers. However, no significant acid ionization or proton transfer was observed in the IL solutions. Raman and IR spectroscopy with computational simulations suggest that the HTFSI forms dimers in the solutions with an N-H-N “bridged” structure, while MSA does not perturb this hydrogen ion solvation structure in the IL solutions. CSA has a lower solubility in the ILs and reduced the IL solution conductivity. However, in IL solutions containing 0.4 M or higher concentration of HTFSI, CSA addition increased the conductivity at low CSA concentrations and reduced it at high concentrations, which may indicate a synergistic effect.
Delivering Elder- and Community-Led Aboriginal Early Childhood Development Research: Lessons from the Ngulluk Koolunga Ngulluk Koort Project
Authors: Farrant Brad M. , Shepherd Carrington C. J. , Michie Carol , Scrine Clair , Wright Michael , Ilich Nicole , Jones Tanya , Pearson Glenn
Published: October 2019

Elder- and community-led research processes are increasingly being acknowledged as critical for successful Aboriginal health and wellbeing research. This article provides an overview of the methodologies, methods and progress of the Ngulluk Koolunga Ngulluk Koort (Our Children, Our Heart) project—an Elder- and community-led research and research-translation project focused on the early childhood development of Australian Aboriginal children in an urban context (Perth, Western Australia). We describe the application of a participatory action research methodology that is grounded in Aboriginal worldview(s), from the collaborative development of the original idea to the post-funding processes of co-design and implementation, data collection, analysis, interpretation and translation.
Ascorbic Acid in Skin Health
Authors: Ravetti Soledad , Clemente Camila , Brignone Sofía , Hergert Lisandro , Allemandi Daniel , Palma Santiago
Published: October 2019

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a water-soluble vitamin and a recognized antioxidant drug that is used topically in dermatology to treat and prevent the changes associated with photoaging, as well as for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Ascorbic acid has neutralizing properties of free radicals, being able to interact with superoxide, hydroxyl and free oxygen ions, preventing the inflammatory processes, carcinogens, and other processes that accelerate photoaging in the skin. Current research focuses on the search for stable compounds of ascorbic acid and new alternatives for administration in the dermis. Unlike plants and most animals, humans do not have the ability to synthesize our own ascorbic acid due to the deficiency of the enzyme L-gulono-gamma-lactone oxidase, which catalyzes the passage terminal in the ascorbic acid biosynthesis. To deal with this situation, humans obtain this vitamin from the diet and/or vitamin supplements, thus preventing the development of diseases and achieving general well-being. Ascorbic acid is involved in important metabolic functions and is vital for the growth and maintenance of healthy bones, teeth, gums, ligaments, and blood vessels. Ascorbic acid is a very unstable vitamin and is easily oxidized in aqueous solutions and cosmetic formulations. Ascorbic acid is extensively used as an ingredient in anti-aging cosmetic products, as sodium ascorbate or ascorbyl palmitate. This review discusses and describes the potential roles for ascorbic acid in skin health and their clinical applications (antioxidative, photoprotective, anti-aging, and anti-pigmentary effects) of topical ascorbic acid on the skin and main mechanisms of action. Considering the instability and difficulty in administering ascorbic acid, we also discuss the importance of several factors involved in the formulation and stabilization of their topical preparations in this review.
Host Specialization in Plant-galling Interactions: Contrasting Mites and Insects
Authors: Araújo Walter , Freitas Érica , Kollár Ján , Pessoa Rodrigo , Corgosinho Paulo , Valério Henrique , Falcão Luiz , Fagundes Marcílio , Pimenta Marcio , Faria Maurício , Martins Waldney , Borges Magno
Published: October 2019

Galling arthropods represent one of the most specialized herbivore groups. On an evolutionary scale, different taxa of insects and mites have convergently adapted to a galling lifestyle. In this study, we have used a multi-taxonomic approach to analyze the interaction specialization between gall-inducing mites and insects and their host plants in the Nitra City Park (Nitra, Slovakia). We used four ecological descriptors for describe plant-galling interactions: number of host plant species used by each arthropod species, galling specificity on host plant species (specificity), exclusivity of interactions between galling and plant species (specialization) and overlap of the interactions between arthropod species (similarity). We have found 121 species of gall-inducing arthropods, totaling 90 insects and 31 mites occurring on 65 host plant species. Our results reveal that mites have high specialization and low similarity of interactions in comparison to insects. A multiple-taxonomic comparison showed that these differences are triggered by gall-wasps (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae), the taxon with the lowest levels of specificity of plant-galling interactions (i.e., occurring on different host plant species). Our findings are indicative of different patterns of interaction between distinct gall-inducing arthropods taxa and their host plants, despite the ecological convergence of different taxa to a highly specialized herbivorous habitat.
The Influencing Factors on Choice Behavior Regarding Green Electronic Products: Based on the Green Perceived Value Model
Authors: Danish Muhammad , Ali Saqib , Ahmad Muhammad Azeem , Zahid Hasan
Published: October 2019

Electronic/electrical waste (e-waste) has now become a global concern due to its negative impact on the environment and health. This negative effect of e-waste is increasing with the advancement in the electronics industry, especially in Pakistan, which is the leading e-waste disposal destination. Therefore, this study aims to find consumer choice behavior regarding green electronics in Pakistan. For this purpose, a multidimensional modified green perceived model (functional value quality, functional value price, social value identity, social value responsibility, emotional value, and conditional value) is used. Cross-sectional data is collected from 237 consumers through a self-administrative questionnaire. The results of variance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) (partial least squares (PLS)-SEM) suggested that functional value price, quality, social value identity, responsibility, emotional value, and conditional value positively and significantly influence the consumer choice behavior regarding green electronics. the possible reasons for the findings and the implications for managers and policymakers are discussed. Limitations of the study and future research directions are also suggested.
Delinquency and Default in USA Student Debt as a Proportional Response to Unemployment and Average Debt per Borrower
Authors: Fuinhas José Alberto , Moutinho Victor , Silva Estefano
Published: October 2019

We research the response of the proportion of student borrowers with ninety or more days of delinquency or in default to variables such as unemployment and the average debt per borrower after the financial crisis of 2007–2008, in the United States, using panel data of 50 states from 2008 to 2015. The proportion of borrowers with delinquency or default was modelled as a function of unemployment, the average debt per borrower, consumer sentiment, and financial stress, using a logit and probit binomial model. The specification tests support that no relevant variable was omitted. Unemployment and the average debt per borrower are statistically significant and contribute to increasing delinquency or default in the 50 states of the panel sample. The results also reveal a differential impact of unemployment among the four regions considered by the US Census Bureau.
The Frequency-Domain Fusion Virtual Multi-Loop Feedback Control System with Measured Disturbance Feedforward Method in Telescopes
Authors: Mao Yao , Deng Jiuqiang , Zhou Xi , Ren Wei
Published: October 2019

In the optical telescope, the stable precision of the optical path is affected by the structural vibrations. The image sensor with time delay and the micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) accelerometer with massive drift limit the disturbance suppression performance of the closed loops. The current control methods cannot reject sufficiently vibrations due to the deficiency of the sensors, causality, and stability restrictions. In this study, the frequency-domain fusion virtual multi-loop feedback control system with measured disturbance feedforward method is proposed to suppress more structural vibrations. In spite of the deficiency of the sensors, we propose the frequency-domain fusion virtual gyroscopes (VGYR) to measure extra velocity of the system. The VGYR is estimated from the MEMS accelerometer with drift and corrected by the image sensor, and it replaces the fiber-optical gyroscopes (FOG) on the fast-stable platform because the weight of FOG is not negligible. To suppress more vibrations, the VGYR and the replaced FOG are utilized to build the virtual multi-loop feedback control system with measured disturbance feedforward, because it is not limited by the causality and stability restrictions. Therefore, the proposed method with causal ideal compensator can effectively improve stable precision and suppress much more structural vibrations in the wider frequency range. Detailed comparative experimental results adequately illustrate the advantages and effectiveness of this method.
The Composition and Height of Saplings Capturing Silvicultural Gaps at Two Long-Term Experiments in Managed Northern Hardwood Forests
Authors: Knapp Samuel P. , Webster Christopher R. , Kern Christel C.
Published: October 2019

Managing forests for mixtures of canopy species promotes future resilience and mitigates risks of catastrophic resource loss. This study describes the compositions, heights, and locations within openings of gap-capturing saplings in two long-term group-selection experiments in managed northern hardwoods. We expected opening size to affect the composition of gap-capturing saplings and that composition would match advance regeneration where relatively large stems remained following harvest. We also expected sapling height to respond positively to opening size, but plateau in gap areas above 200 m2, and legacy-tree retention to negatively affect sapling height. In two group-selection experiments, we found that the composition of gap-capturing saplings was not affected by opening size at 15 and 23 years post-harvest, respectively, and that composition matched advance regeneration only when larger stems (>2.5 cm breast height, dbh) were removed during harvest. Gap-capturing sapling composition did not match the surrounding canopy in either study site. Sapling height was positively correlated with gap area, but, as we expected, plateaued in larger openings. In openings without legacy-retention, gap area did not significantly predict sapling height in openings larger than 100–200 m2, whereas this threshold was between 300–400 m2 in openings with single legacy-tree retention. Sapling height was negatively associated with distance into openings when legacy-trees were present. Group selection appears to recruit modestly higher proportions of shade-midtolerant and intolerant species to the canopy compared to adjacent unmanaged second-growth or managed, uneven-aged northern hardwoods.
Linear Stability Analysis of Liquid Metal Flow in an Insulating Rectangular Duct under External Uniform Magnetic Field
Authors: Tagawa Toshio
Published: October 2019

Linear stability analysis of liquid metal flow driven by a constant pressure gradient in an insulating rectangular duct under an external uniform magnetic field was carried out. In the present analysis, since the Joule heating and induced magnetic field were neglected, the governing equations consisted of the continuity of mass, momentum equation, Ohm’s law, and conservation of electric charge. A set of linearized disturbance equations for the complex amplitude was decomposed into real and imaginary parts and solved numerically with a finite difference method using the highly simplified marker and cell (HSMAC) algorithm on a two-dimensional staggered mesh system. The difficulty of the complex eigenvalue problem was circumvented with a Newton—Raphson method during which its corresponding eigenfunction was simultaneously obtained by using an iterative procedure. The relation among the Reynolds number, the wavenumber, the growth rate, and the angular frequency was successfully obtained for a given value of the Hartmann number as well as for a direction of external uniform magnetic field.
Genetic Epidemiology and Clinical Features of Hereditary Hearing Impairment in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Wu Chen-Chi , Tsai Cheng-Yu , Lin Yi-Hsin , Chen Pey-Yu , Lin Pei-Hsuan , Cheng Yen-Fu , Wu Che-Ming , Lin Yin-Hung , Lee Chee-Yee , Erdenechuluun Jargalkhuu , Liu Tien-Chen , Chen Pei-Lung , Hsu Chuan-Jen
Published: October 2019

Hereditary hearing impairment (HHI) is a common but heterogeneous clinical entity caused by mutations in a plethora of deafness genes. Research over the past few decades has shown that the genetic epidemiology of HHI varies significantly across populations. In this study, we used different genetic examination strategies to address the genetic causes of HHI in a large Taiwanese cohort composed of >5000 hearing-impaired families. We also analyzed the clinical features associated with specific genetic mutations. Our results demonstrated that next-generation sequencing-based examination strategies could achieve genetic diagnosis in approximately half of the families. Common deafness-associated genes in the Taiwanese patients assessed, in the order of prevalence, included GJB2, SLC26A4, OTOF, MYO15A, and MTRNR1, which were similar to those found in other populations. However, the Taiwanese patients had some unique mutations in these genes. These findings may have important clinical implications for refining molecular diagnostics, facilitating genetic counseling, and enabling precision medicine for the management of HHI.
Challenges to Implementing an Environmental Flow Regime in the Luvuvhu River Catchment, South Africa
Authors: Ramulifho Pfananani , Ndou Esther , Thifhulufhelwi Reuben , Dalu Tatenda
Published: October 2019

Rivers are now facing increasing pressure and demand to provide water directly for drinking, farming and supporting industries as a result of rapidly growing global human population. Globally, the most common practice for catchment managers is to limit water abstraction and changes to stream flow by setting environmental flow standards that guard and maintain the natural ecosystem characteristics. Since the development of the environmental flow concept and methods in South Africa, very few studies have assessed the institutional constraints towards environmental flow implementation. This study determined stream flow trends over time by fitting simple linear regression model to mean daily stream flow data at three selected stations in the Luvuvhu River Catchment (LRC). We also conducted a literature search to review, firstly the response of aquatic organisms (fish and macroinvertebrate) to changes in habitat conditions and secondly on local challenges affecting the sustainable implementation of environmental flow regime and related water resources management strategies. All the three stream flow stations show decreasing stream flow volume of 1 and 2 orders of magnitude faster in some stations with the possibility that flow will cease in the near future. Qualitative analyses from both local and international literature search found that the main challenges facing the implementation of sustainable flow strategies and management are absence of catchment management agency, lack of understanding of environmental flow benefits, limited financial budget, lack of capacity and conflict of interest. Rivers with changing stream flows tend to lose sensitive species. The development of scientifically credible catchment-wide environmental flow and abstraction thresholds for rivers within the LRC would make a major contribution in minimizing the declining stream flow volumes. Monitoring and reporting should be prioritized to give regular accounts of the state of our rivers.
Consumer Choices and Service Quality in the University Canteens in Warsaw, Poland
Authors: Czarniecka-Skubina Ewa , Górska-Warsewicz Hanna , Laskowski Wacław , Jeznach Maria
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to identify and analyze consumer choices and service quality in university canteens in Warsaw. Our study consists of two parts. The first part of our research was conducted using a sample of 1250 adult respondents in 25 university canteens located at five higher education institutions. The reasons and frequency for using canteens, types of selected dishes and opinions on a given catering facility management system were analyzed. The second part of the study was conducted as an inspection to assess internal control and reliability of information. The respondents’ opinions are not in line with inspection assessments. This may be due to the fact that students do not pay attention to the quality of services in university canteens or have little knowledge about service, quality of services or hygiene aspects. For a detailed analysis of consumer choices and service quality assessment, we used Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test and multi-dimensional cluster analysis. We identified four clusters regarding the type of meals and consumed frequency of consumption in university canteens, and five profiles in relation to evaluation of canteen interior, service and menu. In the correspondence analysis performed using the multidimensional Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) method, we identified five clusters of consumers based on nine features, i.e., canteen location, frequency of using the canteen, gender of respondents, dwelling place, financial status of respondents. Our research on the functioning of university canteens is one of the first not only in Poland, but also in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The evaluation of the quality of nutrition in canteens should be continued in order to prevent diet-related diseases. Based on the results of our research, we postulate to introduce an evaluation guide for university canteens taking into account various aspects of services.
The Cumulative Risk of Chemical and Nonchemical Exposures on Birth Outcomes in Healthy Women: The Fetal Growth Study
Authors: Zilversmit Pao Leah , Harville Emily W. , Wickliffe Jeffrey K. , Shankar Arti , Buekens Pierre
Published: October 2019

Metals, stress, and sociodemographics are commonly studied separately for their effects on birth outcomes, yet often jointly contribute to adverse outcomes. This study analyzes two methods for measuring cumulative risk to understand how maternal chemical and nonchemical stressors may contribute to small for gestational age (SGA). SGA was calculated using sex-specific fetal growth curves for infants of pregnant mothers (n = 2562) enrolled in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Fetal Growth Study. The exposures (maternal lead, mercury, cadmium, Cohen’s perceived stress, Edinburgh depression scores, race/ethnicity, income, and education) were grouped into three domains: metals, psychosocial stress, and sociodemographics. In Method 1 we created cumulative risk scores using tertiles. Method 2 employed weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression. For each method, logistic models were built with three exposure domains individually and race/ethnicity, adjusting for age, parity, pregnancy weight gain, and marital status. The adjusted effect of overall cumulative risk with three domains, was also modeled using each method. Sociodemographics was the only exposure associated with SGA in unadjusted models ((odds ratio) OR: 1.35, 95% (confidence interval) CI: 1.08, 1.68). The three cumulative variables in adjusted models were not significant individually, but the overall index was associated with SGA (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.35). In the WQS model, only the sociodemographics domain was significantly associated with SGA. Sociodemographics tended to be the strongest risk factor for SGA in both risk score and WQS models.
Associations among Neighborhood Socioeconomic Deprivation, Physical Activity Facilities, and Physical Activity in Youth during the Transition from Childhood to Adolescence
Authors: Clennin Morgan N. , Lian Min , Colabianchi Natalie , Kaczynski Andrew , Dowda Marsha , Pate Russell R.
Published: October 2019

Background: This study aims to examine the longitudinal association of neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation (SED) with physical activity in youth during the transition from elementary to middle school, and to determine if access to physical activity facilities moderates this relationship. Methods: Data were obtained from the Transitions and Activity Changes in Kids (TRACK) study, which was a multilevel, longitudinal study designed to identify the factors that influence changes in physical activity as youth transition from elementary to middle school. The analytic sample for the current study included 660 youth with complete data in grades 5 (baseline) and 7 (follow-up). A repeated measures multilevel framework was employed to examine the relationship between SED and physical activity over time and the potential moderating role of elements of the built environment. Results: Decreases in physical activity varied by the degree of neighborhood SED with youth residing in the most deprived neighborhoods experiencing the greatest declines in physical activity. Access to supportive physical activity facilities did not moderate this relationship. Conclusion: Future research studies are needed to better understand how neighborhood SED influences youth physical activity over time.
Baseline Obesity Increases 25-Year Risk of Mortality due to Cerebrovascular Disease: Role of Race
Authors: Assari Shervin , Bazargan Mohsen
Published: October 2019

Background: Although obesity may have a role as a risk factor for cerebrovascular mortality, less is known about how demographic and social groups differ in this regard. Aims: This study had two aims: first to investigate the predictive role of baseline obesity on long-term risk of mortality due to cerebrovascular disease, and second, to test racial variation in this effect. Methods: the Americans’ Changing Lives Study (ACL) 1986–2011 is a state of the art 25-year longitudinal cohort study. ACL followed a nationally representative sample of Blacks (n = 1156) and Whites (n = 2205) for up to 25 years. Baseline obesity was the main predictor of interest, time to cerebrovascular death was the main outcome of interest. Demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status (educational attainment and household income), health behaviors (exercise and smoking), and health (hypertension and depressive symptoms) at baseline were covariates. Cox proportional hazards models were used to test additive and multiplicative effects of obesity and race on the outcome. Results: From the total 3,361 individuals, 177 people died due to cerebrovascular causes (Whites and Blacks). In the pooled sample, baseline obesity did not predict cerebrovascular mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.86, 0.49–1.51), independent of demographic, socioeconomic, health behaviors, and health factors at baseline. Race also interacted with baseline obesity on outcome (HR = 3.17, 1.09–9.21), suggesting a stronger predictive role of baseline obesity on cerebrovascular deaths for Black people compared to White individuals. According to the models that were run specific to each race, obesity predicted risk of cerebrovascular mortality for Blacks (HR = 2.51, 1.43–4.39) but not Whites (HR = 0.69, 0.31–1.53). Conclusions: Baseline obesity better predicts long-term risk of cerebrovascular death in Black individuals compared to White people. More research should explore factors that explain why racial differences exist in the effects of obesity on cerebrovascular outcome. Findings also have implications for personalized medicine.
Determinants of Urban Expansion and Spatial Heterogeneity in China
Authors: Li Ming , Zhang Guojun , Liu Ying , Cao Yongwang , Zhou Chunshan
Published: October 2019

China is the world’s largest developing country and its regions vary considerably. However, spatial heterogeneity in determinants of urban expansion in prefecture-level cities have not been identified. The present study explored the spatiotemporal characteristics of Chinese urban expansion and adopted a geographically weighted regression (GWR) method to determine this spatial heterogeneity. The results indicated that China experienced massive urban expansion during 1990–2015, with urban areas growing from 4.88 × 104 km2 to 1.06 × 105 km2, 46.42% of which was distributed in the eastern region. The results of the GWR model revealed the spatial heterogeneity in the determinants of urban expansion. Marketization was vital for urban expansion and had a stronger impact in the developed eastern and southern regions than in the less-developed northern and western regions. Globalization and decentralization bi-directionally affected urban expansion. The constraining effects of physical factors were limited and stronger in the developing northern region than in the developed southern region. Identifying the varying determinants of urban expansion is essential for policy-making in various regions.
Effect of Abscisic Acid (ABA) Combined with Two Different Beekeeping Nutritional Strategies to Confront Overwintering: Studies on Honey Bees’ Population Dynamics and Nosemosis
Authors: Szawarski Nicolás , Saez Agustín , Domínguez Enzo , Dickson Rachel , De Matteis Ángela , Eciolaza Carlos , Justel Marcelino , Aliano Alfredo , Solar Pedro , Bergara Ignacio , Pons Claudia , Bolognesi Aldo , Carna Gabriel , Garcia Walter , Garcia Omar , Eguaras Martin , Lamattina Lorenzo , Maggi Matías , Negri Pedro
Published: October 2019

In temperate climates, beekeeping operations suffer colony losses and colony depopulation of Apis mellifera during overwintering, which are associated with biotic and abiotic stressors that impact bees’ health. In this work, we evaluate the impacts of abscisic acid (ABA) dietary supplementation on honey bee colonies kept in Langstroth hives. The effects of ABA were evaluated in combination with two different beekeeping nutritional strategies to confront overwintering: “honey management” and “syrup management”. Specifically, we evaluated strength parameters of honey bee colonies (adult bee and brood population) and the population dynamics of Nosema (prevalence and intensity) associated with both nutritional systems and ABA supplementation during the whole study (late autumn-winter-early spring). The entire experiment was designed and performed with a local group of beekeepers, “Azahares del sudeste”, who showed interest in answering problems associated with the management of honey bee colonies during the winter. The results indicated that the ABA supplementation had positive effects on the population dynamics of the A. mellifera colonies during overwintering and on the nosemosis at colony level (prevalence) in both nutritional strategies evaluated.
Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Adults with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Saraf Santosh L. , Rondelli Damiano
Published: October 2019

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited red blood cell disorder that leads to substantial morbidity and early mortality. Acute and chronic SCD-related complications increase with older age, and therapies are urgently needed to treat adults. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a curative therapy, but has been used less frequently in adults compared to children. This is, in part, due to (1) greater chronic organ damage, limiting tolerability to myeloablative conditioning regimens, (2) a higher rate of HSCT-related complications in adults versus children with SCD, and (3) limited coverage by public and private health insurance. Newer approaches using nonmyeloablative and reduced-intensity conditioning HSCT regimens have demonstrated better safety and tolerability, with high rates of stable engraftment in SCD adults. This review will focus on the impacts of HSCT, using more contemporary approaches to SCD-related complications in adults.
Benchmarking of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Machines
Authors: Moshiri Mandaná , Candeo Stefano , Carmignato Simone , Mohanty Sankhya , Tosello Guido
Published: October 2019

This paper presents the methodology and results of an extensive benchmarking of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) machines conducted across five top machine producers and two end users. The objective was to understand the influence of the individual machine on the final quality of predesigned specimens, given a specific material and from multiple perspectives, in order to assess the current capabilities and limitations of the technology and compare them with the capabilities of an 11-year-old machine belonging to one of the end users participating in this investigation. The collected results give a clear representation of the status of LPBF technology considering its maturity in terms of process capabilities and potential applications in a production environment.
Growth and Coalescence of 3C-SiC on Si(111) Micro-Pillars by a Phase-Field Approach
Authors: Masullo Marco , Bergamaschini Roberto , Albani Marco , Kreiliger Thomas , Mauceri Marco , Crippa Danilo , La Via Francesco , Montalenti Francesco , von Känel Hans , Miglio Leo
Published: October 2019

3C-SiC is a promising material for low-voltage power electronic devices but its growth is still challenging. Heteroepitaxy of 3C-SiC on Si micrometer-sized pillars is regarded as a viable method to achieve high crystalline quality, minimizing the effects of lattice and thermal expansion mismatch. Three-dimensional micro-crystals with sharply-faceted profiles are obtained, eventually touching with each other to form a continuous layer, suspended on the underlying pillars. By comparing experimental data and simulation results obtained by a phase-field growth model, here we demonstrate that the evolution of the crystal morphology occurs in a kinetic regime, dominated by the different incorporation times on the crystal facets. These microscopic parameters, effective to characterize the out-of-equilibrium growth process, are estimated by a best-fitting procedure, matching simulation profiles to the experimental one at different deposition stages. Then, simulations are exploited to inspect the role of a different pillar geometry and template effects are recognized. Finally, coalescence of closely spaced crystals ordered into an hexagonal array is investigated. Two possible alignments of the pattern are compared and the most convenient arrangement is evaluated.
Microstructure and Isothermal Oxidation of Ir–Rh Spark Plug Electrodes
Authors: Zhao Shifang , Xia Jingyi , Xia Yimin , Chen Jianming , Du Dekui , Yang Huimu , Liu Jie
Published: October 2019

High-temperature oxidation tests were performed on pure iridium, rhodium, and the iridium alloys, IrRh10, IrRh25, and IrRh40, at 1100 °C in a stable air environment for 60 h. The results of the oxidation were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Microstructural changes of the Ir–Rh alloys were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XPS analysis results show that the main oxide of the Ir–Rh alloy in a 1100 °C environment was Rh2O3, and SEM analysis shows that the surfaces of the Ir–Rh alloys after oxidation formed both linear and ellipse-shaped corrosion pits, and had the same direction with the wire-drawing process. The oxidation behavior of Ir–Rh alloys, including the mass change, the reason for the mass loss, and the role of Rh in improving oxidation resistance performance, are discussed.
Microwave Thermal Ablation versus Open Partial Nephrectomy for the Treatment of Small Renal Tumors in Patients Over 70 Years Old
Authors: Anglickis Marius , Anglickienė Giedrė , Andreikaitė Gintarė , Skrebūnas Arminas
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives: Microwave thermal ablation (MWT) is one of the treatment options for kidney cancer. However, for patients over 70 years old the safety and oncological efficacy of this treatment is still controversial. The goal of this study was to compare MWT with open partial nephrectomy (OPN) and to find out whether MWT is preferable in maintaining patient renal function and reducing the risk of postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: Depending on the treatment choice, all patients were divided into two groups: an MWT group and an open kidney resection (OPN) group. Data have been retrospectively collected for 7 years, starting with January 2012 up to January 2019. A total number of 33 patients with exophytic, single small renal masses were treated with either OPN (n = 18) or MWT (n = 15). All patients had histologically proven T1 kidney cancer. MWT was performed for patients who refused to have OPN or in those cases where the collecting system, renal calyx, and great vessels were free from tumor margins of more than 1 cm. Results: In the MWT group a median (IQR) patients’ age was 75 years (71–79) years, in the OPN group—71.5 (70–75) years, p = 0.005. A median (IQR) Charleston comorbidity index in the MWT group was 7.5 (5–10) and in the same way in the OPN group it was 5.22 (5–6), p = 0.005. A median (IQR) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) before surgery was higher in the MWT group 59.9 (49.5–73.8) mL/min/1.73 m2 vs. 46.2 (42.7–65.8) mL/min/1.73 m2 in the OPN group, p = 0.12. Three days following the surgery a median (IQR) eGFR was 56.45 (46.6–71.9) in MWT group mL/min/1.73 m2 vs. 43.45 (38.3–65) mL/min/1.73 m2) in the OPN group, p = 0.30. A median (IQR) of primary hemoglobin level was lower in the MWT group compared with the OPN group (134.5 (124–140) g/L vs. 125 (108–138) g/L), p = 0.41. However, after the surgery a median (IQR) lower hemoglobin level was detected in the OPN group (123.5 (111–134) g/L vs. 126 (112–135)), p = 0.53. The median (IQR) duration of the procedure in MWT group was shorter compared with the OPN group (26 (25–30) min vs. 67.5 (55–90) min), p < 0.0001. A median (IQR) hospitalization time was shorter in MWT group (3 (2–3) days vs. 89 (7–11.5) days), p < 0.0001. Pain by the visual analogue scale (VAS) scale the first day after surgery was significantly lower—median (IQR) in the MWT group was 2 (1–3) vs. 4 (3–6)), p = 0.008. Treatment failure rate was numerically higher in MWT (1/15 vs. 0/18, p = 0.56). Conclusions: Pain level on the next day after surgery, mean number of hospitalization and operation time were significantly lower in the MWT group than in the OPN group. The blood loss estimated glomerular filtration rate and oncologic data between the two groups was not statistically significant.
Prevalence of Low Energy Availability in Competitively Trained Male Endurance Athletes
Authors: Lane Amy R. , Hackney Anthony C. , Smith-Ryan Abbie , Kucera Kristen , Registar-Mihalik Johna , Ondrak Kristin
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives: Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) has been introduced as a broad-spectrum syndrome leading to possible dysfunction in numerous physiological systems, driven primarily by low energy availability (EA). Research in females has identified specific EA cut-points indicative of risk level for developing physiological and performance disturbances. Cut-points in males have yet to be evaluated. This study examined the prevalence of low EA in competitive (non-elite), recreationally trained (CRT) male endurance athletes. Materials and Methods: Subjects were 108 CRT (38.6 ± 13.8 y; 12.2 ± 5.4 h/wk training) male endurance athletes (runners, cyclists, triathletes) who completed a descriptive survey online via Qualtrics® and returned 3 day diet and exercise training records. EA was calculated from returned surveys and training records. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and lean body mass (LBM) were estimated from self-reported survey data. Prevalence of risk group was categorized based on the female cut-points: At risk (AR) ≤30 kcal/kg LBM, moderate risk (MR) = 30–45 kcal/kg LBM, or no risk (NR) ≥45 kcal/kg LBM. Results: In this sample, 47.2% (n = 51) were classified as AR, 33.3% (n = 36) as MR, and 19.4% (n = 21) as NR for low EA. Cyclists had lower EA (26.9 ± 17.4 kcal/kg LBM, n = 45) than runners (34.6 ± 13.3 kcal/kg LBM, n = 55, p = 0.016) and all other sport categories (39.5 ± 19.1 kcal/kg LBM, n = 8, p = 0.037). Conclusions: The findings indicate this sample had a high prevalence of risk for low EA, at 47.2%. Only 19.4% of participants were at no risk, meaning ~80% of participants were at some degree of risk of experiencing low EA. Cyclists were at greater risk in this cohort of low EA, although why this occurred was unclear and is in need of further investigation. Future research should address whether the current female cut-points for low EA are appropriate for use in male populations.
Factors Influencing Quality of Life during the First Trimester of Pregnancy: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Jakubauskiene Lina , Jakubauskas Matas , Mainelis Antanas , Buzinskiene Diana , Drasutiene Grazina , Ramasauskaite Diana , Poskus Tomas
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Pregnancy, delivery and postpartum periods are associated with fast changes leading to decreased self-confidence, anxiety, stress or even maternal depression impairing their quality of life (QOL). Although considered important, QOL of women during pregnancy is poorly understood. The aim of our study was to assess factors influencing QOL during first trimester of pregnancy. The secondary goal of our study was to evaluate whether QOL during first trimester of pregnancy is associated with newborn weight. Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study was performed including pregnant women during the first trimester visit. Our questionnaire consisted of the SF-36 QOL questionnaire, Wexner fecal incontinence scale, and other additional information. The SF-36 questionnaire mental (MCS) and physical (PCS) health scores were used in order to evaluate QOL of women during first trimester of pregnancy. Two multiple logistic regression models were created in order to determine independent variables that influence the QOL. Results: 440 pregnant women were included in the study. The two main domains that were used in the study were MCS and PCS, their medians were 50.0 (25.0; 50.0) and 50.1 (39.4; 59.0) points respectively. From the two logistic regression models we determined several independent factors that influence QOL of women during the first trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, we determined that women who reported worse QOL tended to give birth to newborns large for their gestational age. Conclusions: We found several significant variables that influence QOL of women during the first trimester of pregnancy. We also found that that lower MCS and PCS scores during the first trimester are associated with newborns large for gestational age.
Upregulated Expression of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor, Its Analogue D-Dopachrome Tautomerase, and the CD44 Receptor in Peripheral CD4 T Cells from Clinically Isolated Syndrome Patients with Rapid Conversion to Clinical Defined Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Cavalli Eugenio , Mazzon Emanuela , Basile Maria Sofia , Mangano Katia , Di Marco Roberto , Bramanti Placido , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Fagone Paolo , Petralia Maria Cristina
Published: October 2019

Background and objectives: Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and D-Dopachrome Tautomerase (DDT) are two pleiotropic and primarily, but not exclusively, proinflammatory cytokines belonging to the MIF family of cytokines that have recently been shown to be implicated in the pathogenesis of progressive forms of human progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the experimental model counterpart in rodents. Materials and Methods: We have presently evaluated a transcriptomic analysis of the expression of MIF, DDT, their receptors CD74 and CD44, and MIF co-receptors CXCR2, CXCR4, and CXCR7 in peripheral blood of patients with Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), with rapid progression to clinical defined MS. Results: Our analysis reveals that MIF, DDT, and CD44 are overexpressed in CD4+ T cells from patients with CIS, as compared to healthy controls. Accordingly, a significant overlap was observed between the genes overexpressed in CD4+ T cells from patients with CIS and the genes belonging to the MIF regulatory network. This upregulated expression appeared to be unique for CD4+ T cells, as other immune cells including CD8+ T cells, B cells, and monocytes from these patients exhibited expression levels of these molecules that were superimposable to those observed in healthy controls. Conclusions: Overall, our data suggest that the overexpression MIF cytokine family signature may occur in CD4+ T cells from patients with CIS, and that this phenomenon may be implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease, offering the possibility to represent both a diagnostic marker and a therapeutic target.
Oncogenic Virome Benefits from the Different Vaginal Microbiome-Immune Axes
Authors: Campisciano Giuseppina , Gheit Tarik , De Seta Francesco , Cason Carolina , Zanotta Nunzia , Delbue Serena , Ricci Giuseppe , Ferrante Pasquale , Tommasino Massimo , Comar Manola
Published: October 2019

The picture of dynamic interaction between oncogenic viruses and the vaginal bacteria-immune host milieu is incomplete. We evaluated the impact of Polyomaviridae, Papillomaviridae, and Herpesviridae oncoviruses on the vaginal Community State Types (CSTs) and host immune response in reproductive-age women. In our cohort, only Polyomaviridae and Papillomaviridae were detected and were associated with changes in the resident bacteria of CST I and IV (p < 0.05). Lactobacillus crispatus increased in CST I while Prevotella timonensis and Sneathia sanguinegens increased in CST IV. Conversely, CST II and III showed an alteration of the immune response, with the decrease of Eotaxin, MCP-1, IL-7, IL-9, and IL-15 (p < 0.05), leading to reduced antiviral efficacy. An efficient viral clearance was observed only in women from CST I, dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus. Our in vivo study begins to address the knowledge gap with respect to the role of vaginal bacteria and immune response in susceptibility to oncoviral infections.
Effect of Quartz on the Preparation of Sodium Stannate from Cassiterite Concentrates by Soda Roasting Process
Authors: Zhang Yuanbo , Han Benlai , Su Zijian , Chen Xijun , Lu Manman , Liu Shuo , Liu Jicheng , Jiang Tao
Published: October 2019

Sodium stannate (Na2SnO3) has been successfully prepared by a novel process of roasting cassiterite concentrates and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) under CO–CO2 atmosphere, namely soda roasting-leaching process. However, more than 22 wt. % tin of the cassiterite was not converted into Na2SnO3 and entered the leach residues. Quartz (SiO2) is the predominant gangue in the cassiterite, and phase evolution of SnO2–SiO2–Na2CO3 system roasted under CO–CO2 atmosphere was still uncertain. In this study, the effect of SiO2 in cassiterite concentrates on preparation of Na2SnO3 was clarified. The results indicated that Na8SnSi6O18 was inevitably formed when cassiterite and Na2CO3 were roasted above 775 °C under CO–CO2 atmosphere via the reaction of SnO2 + 6SiO2 + 4Na2CO3 = Na8SnSi6O18 + 4CO2, and formation of Na8SnSi6O18 would be increased with increasing roasting temperature and Si/Sn mole fraction. In addition, it was found that Na8SnSi6O18 was insoluble in the leachate at pH value range of 1–14, which, therefore, was enriched in the leach residues. The silicon content of the cassiterite concentrates should be controlled as lower as possible to obtain a higher conversion ratio of Na2SnO3.
4H-Benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones and Dihydro Analogs from Substituted Anthranilic Acids and Orthoesters
Authors: Annor-Gyamfi Joel K. , Bunce Richard A.
Published: October 2019

A one-pot route to 2-alkyl and 2-aryl-4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones (also known as 4H-3,1-benzoxazin-4-ones) has been developed and studied. The method involves the reaction of aryl-substituted anthranilic acids with orthoesters in ethanol catalyzed by acetic acid. Additionally, we have also investigated the reaction under microwave conditions. Not all of the substrates were successful in yielding the target heterocycles as some of the reactions failed to undergo the final elimination. This process led to the isolation of (±)-2-alkyl/aryl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydro-4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones. The formation of the dihydro analogs correlated with the electron density on the aromatic ring: Electron-donating groups favored the 4H- benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones, while electron-withdrawing groups tended to favor the dihydro product. Substituting a pyridine ring for the benzene ring in the substrate acid suppressed the reaction.
Syntheses, Characterization, and Antioxidant Evaluation of Cu2+, Mn2+, and Fe3+ Complexes with a 14 Membered EDTA-Derived Macrocycle
Authors: Soberanes Yedith , Navarro Rosa Elena , Inoue Motomichi , Velázquez-Contreras Enrique F. , Beltran Torres Melissa , Lugo Gustavo , Sotelo-Mundo Rogerio R. , Salazar-Medina Alex J.
Published: October 2019

The Cu2+, Mn2+, and Fe3+ complexes of a 14 membered macrocycle were synthesized and their antioxidant capacities were evaluated against ABTS and DPPH radicals, with the objective of collecting insights into the biomimetic role of the central metal ions. The macrocycle, abbreviated as H2L14, is a derivative of EDTA cyclized with 1,4-diamine, and the moderately flexible macrocyclic frame permits the formation of [ML14·H2O] chelates with octahedral coordination geometries common among the metal ions. The metal complexes were characterized by electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic methods, as well as thermogravimetric analysis; the octahedral coordination geometries with water coordination were optimized by DFT calculations. The antioxidant assays showed that [FeL14·H2O]+ was able to scavenge synthetic radicals with moderate capacity, whereas the other metal chelates did not show significant activity. The Raman spectrum of DPPH in solution suggests that interaction was operative between the Fe3+ chelate and the radical so as to cause scavenging capability. The nature of the central metal ions is a controlling factor for antioxidant capacity, as every metal chelate carries the same coordination geometry.