bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Microchannel Heat Sinks Using Prey-Predator Algorithm and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Hamadneh Nawaf , Khan Waqar , Tilahun Surafel
Published: June 2018

A rectangular microchannel heat sink is modeled by employing thermal resistance and pressure drop networks. The available correlations for both thermal resistance and pressure drop are utilized in optimization. A multi-objective optimization technique, the prey–predator algorithm, is employed with the objective to find the optimal values for the heat sink performance parameters, i.e., thermal resistance and the pumping power of the heat sink. Additionally, a radial basis function neural network is used to investigate a relationship between these parameters. Full training based on the prey–predator algorithm with the sum of the squared error function is used to achieve the best performance of the model. The analysis of variance method is also employed to test the performance of this model. This study shows that the multi-objective function based on the prey–predator algorithm and the neural networks is suitable for finding the optimal values for the microchannel heat sink parameters. The minimum values of the multi-objective function are found to be “pumping power = 2.79344” and “total thermal resistance = 0.134133”.
One-Dimensional Chain-Type Dicopper Coordination Polymer Linked by 1,4-Di(4-pyridyl)benzene; Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Magnetic Property, and Gas-Adsorption Property
Authors: Yano Natsumi , Handa Makoto , Mitsumi Minoru , Kataoka Yusuke
Published: June 2018

A one-dimensional chain-type dicopper(II) coordination polymer with 1,4-di(4-pyridyl)-benzene (dpybz), [Cu2(O2C-tBu)4(dpybz)] (1), is synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and CHN elemental analysis. Single crystal X-ray diffraction confirms that the one-dimensional chains of 1 are assembled with CH···π interactions at the dpybz moieties to form a brick-like porous network structure. Magnetic susceptibility measurement and broken-symmetry density functional theory (BS-DFT) calculations indicate that (i) antiferromagnetic interactions are present between two copper ions through the bridging carboxylate ligands; the observed exchange integral value (J) of 1 is −175.3 cm−1, which is consistent with the DFT-calculated value for 1 (−174.5 cm−1), and (ii) the magnetic interaction between two Cu2 units through the dpybz ligand is negligible. N2 adsorption measurements indicate that the porous structure of 1 is retained even after evacuation of the guest solvents from the pores of 1, and 1 adsorbs N2 molecules into its pores (the Langmuir surface area of 1 is estimated as 538.0 m2/g).
Late-onset nocturnal intractable seizure during sleep: what is the origin?
Authors: Miliauskas Skaidrius , Liesienė Vanda , Žemaitis Marius , Sakalauskas Raimundas
Published: June 2018

A 54-year-old man was admitted to the Sleep Laboratory, Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine, for assessment of nocturnal seizures of unknown origin during sleep. This patient complained of increasing daytime sleepiness, morning headaches. Before the admission to the Sleep Laboratory, the treatment with depakine and clonazepam had been prescribed. Despite the treatment, the frequency of nocturnal seizures and daytime sleepiness increased. Full night polysomnography was performed. Ten central apneas were registered during all night. Two central sleep apneas with deep desaturation followed by generalized tonicclonic seizures were documented. First sleep apnea lasted for 180 seconds and was terminated by epileptic tonic-clonic seizures. The second central sleep apnea with oxygen desaturation of 65% was detected 20 minutes later. It lasted for 200 seconds and was also terminated by epileptic tonic-clonic seizures. The conclusion was drawn that the patient had epileptic seizures caused by central sleep apneas with deep oxygen desaturation. The treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure device was started. The seizures disappeared completely. Clonazepam was stopped. Depakine was gradually withdrawn during the two weeks. One-year follow-up showed very good compliance, no seizures, and diminished daytime sleepiness.
Sickness, colleagues’ harassment in teachers’ work and emotional exhaustion
Authors: Astrauskaitė Milda , Perminas Aidas , Kern Roy
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship among colleagues’ harassment, emotional exhaustion, and sickness absence with a sample of teachers. Material and methods. The sample consisted of 351 teachers from 8 secondary schools in Kaunas. Instruments used in the study included the Work Harassment Scale (WHS) developed by Björkqvist and Österman (1992), the Emotional Exhaustion Scale (the MBI-ES) by Maslach et al. (1996), and a questionnaire of demographic information. Results. Data analysis indicated that a higher level of work harassment was related to higher emotional exhaustion. Regression analysis findings indicated that a higher level of emotional exhaustion was related to higher levels of disruption, humiliation, alienation, and indignity. Teachers who observed harassment reported higher levels of emotional exhaustion. Respondents who missed work due to illness reported higher levels of disruption on the WHS. Conclusions. The study indicated that work harassment could be an important aspect in teacher’s health. The seriousness of the work harassment phenomenon may be supported by the results showing that teachers who witnessed others being harassed experienced a higher level of emotional exhaustion. The phenomenon appears to be an area that requires additional research.
Pathogenesis and treatment modalities of localized scleroderma
Authors: Valančienė Greta , Jasaitienė Daiva , Valiukevičienė Skaidra
Published: June 2018

Localized scleroderma is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily of the dermis and subcutaneous fat that ultimately leads to a scar-like sclerosis of connective tissue. The disorder manifests as various plaques of different shape and size with signs of skin inflammation, sclerosis, and atrophy. This is a relatively rare inflammatory disease characterized by a chronic course, unknown etiology, and insufficiently clear pathogenesis. Many factors may influence its appearance: trauma, genetic factors, disorders of the immune system or hormone metabolism, viral infections, toxic substances or pharmaceutical agents, neurogenic factors, and Borrelia burgdorferi infection. Various therapeutic modalities are being used for the treatment of localized scleroderma. There is no precise treatment scheme for this disease. A majority of patients can be successfully treated with topical pharmaceutical agents and phototherapy, but some of them with progressive, disseminated, and causing disability localized scleroderma are in need of systemic treatment. The aim of this article is not only to dispute about the clinical and morphological characteristics of localized scleroderma, but also to present the newest generalized data about the possible origin, pathogenesis, and treatment modalities of this disease.
Normali krūvio miokardo perfuzija ir vainikinių arterijų būklė
Authors: Milvidaitė Irena , Kulakienė Ilona , Jurkienė Nemira , Linonienė Leonarda , Gugienė Laima , Kanaporienė Janina , Lukšienė Dalia , Navickas Ramūnas
Published: June 2018

Tyrimo tikslas. Nustatyti klinikinius požymius, būdingus pacientams, jaučiantiems krūtinės skausmus, kurių vainikinės arterijos susiaurėjusios, o miokardo krūvio perfuzija normali. Tirtųjų kontingentas ir tyrimo metodai. Tirtųjų kontingentą sudarė 84 pacientai, jaučiantys krūtinės skausmus, kuriems 2000–2007 m. buvo nustatyta normali miokardo krūvio (veloergometrija) radionuklidinė kompiuterinė tomografi ja ir atlikta širdies vainikinių arterijų angiografija. Miokardo krūvio radionuklidinė kompiuterinė tomografi ja atlikta pagal vienos dienos standartinį protokolą dviem etapais. Vertinimui buvo naudojamas 20 balų modelis. Perfuzija laikoma normalia, kai suminis krūvio balas buvo 0–3. Rezultatai. Didelė pretestinė išeminės širdies ligos tikimybė nustatyta 25 proc. pacientų, informatyvūs krūvio nutraukimo kriterijai – 45,2 proc. atvejų. Reikšmingų (≥75 proc.) vainikinių arterijų susiaurėjimų nustatyta 26 (31 proc.) pacientams, iš jų 6 (7,1 proc.) – trijų arterijų. Vienaveiksnės logistinės regresijos būdu įvertinta klinikinių rodmenų reikšmė didelių vainikinių arterijų stenozių tikimybei esant normaliai miokardo krūvio perfuzijai. 1–3 arterijų stenozė dažniau nustatyta pacientams, kurie jautė būdingus angininius skausmus (šansų santykis 3,8, p=0,008) ir turėjo didelę pretestinę išeminės širdies ligos tikimybę (šansų santykis 3,43, p=0,023). Trijų vainikinių arterijų liga dažniau nustatyta pacientams, kurie jautė būdingus angininius skausmus (šansų santykis – 11,2, p=0,009), turėjo didelę pretestinę išeminės širdies ligos tikimybę (šansų santykis – 7,93, p=0,018) ir kuriems krūvio metu buvo sukelti išeminiai pokyčiai (šansų santykis – 6,4, p=0,037). Išvada. Būdingi angininiai skausmai, didelė pretestinė išeminės širdies ligos tikimybė ir krūvio sukeliami išeminiai pokyčiai patikimai didina vainikinių arterijų reikšmingų stenozių tikimybę net esant normaliai miokardo krūvio perfuzijai, todėl tokiems pacientams turi būti atliekamas angiografijos tyrimas.
Effect of inhibitors of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes on the electromechanical activity in human myocardium
Authors: Gendvilienė Vida , Martišienė Irma , Zablockaitė Danguolė , Jurevičius Jonas
Published: June 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of inhibitors of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, III, and IV on the electromechanical activity in human myocardium. Material and methods. The experiments were performed on the human myocardial strips obtained from patients with heart failure (NYHA class III or IV) using a conventional method of registration of myocardial electromechanical activity. Under the perfusion with physiological Tyrode solution (control), contraction force (P) was 0.94±0.12 mN (n=16), relaxation time (t50) was 173.38±5.03 ms (n=15), action potential durations measured at 50% (AP50) and 90% (AP90) repolarization were 248.96±13.38 ms and 398.59±17.93 ms, respectively (n=13). Results. The inhibition of respiratory chain complex I by rotenone (3×10–5 M, the highest concentration applied) decreased contraction force of human myocardium to 48.99%±14.74% (n=3) (P<0.05); AP50, to 81.34%±15.81%; and AP90, to 87.28%±7.25% (n=3) (P>0.05) of control level, while relaxation time and resting tension remained almost unchanged. Antimycin A, an inhibitor of complex III, applied at the highest concentration (3×10–4 M) reduced P to 41.66%±8.8% (n=5) (P<0.001) and marginally increased t50 and decreased the durations of AP. Anoxia (3 mM Na2S2O4) that inhibits the activity of complex IV reduced the contraction force to 9.23%±3.56% (n=6) (P<0.001), AP50 and AP90 to 65.46%±9.95% and 71.07%±8.39% (n=5) (P<0.05) of control level, respectively; furthermore, the resting tension augmented (contracture developed). Conclusions. Our results show that the inhibition of respiratory chain complex IV had the strongest inhibitory effect on the electromechanical activity of failing human myocardium.
Pharmacy specialists’ attitudes toward pharmaceutical service quality at community pharmacies
Authors: Urbonas Gvidas , Jakušovaitė Irayda , Savickas Arūnas
Published: June 2018

Objective. The main objective of this study was to analyze pharmacy specialists’ attitudes toward the quality of pharmaceutical services at Lithuanian community pharmacies. Material and methods. Between April and June 2009, a total of 471 Lithuanian community pharmacy specialists completed a questionnaire designed to evaluate their attitudes toward the quality of pharmaceutical services at community pharmacies. The main dimensions of pharmaceutical service quality were extracted by principal component analysis. Results. Two main dimensions of pharmaceutical service quality were extracted: pharmacotherapeutic aspects (provision of information about drug therapy, possible side effects, health promotion, the amount of time spent with a patient, and the ascertainment that a patient understood the provided information) and socioeconomic aspects (considering patient’s needs and financial capabilities, making a patient confident with the services provided). Pharmacy specialists evaluated the quality of both dimensions positively, but the quality of the first dimension was rated significantly worse than that of the second dimension. The attitudes of pharmacy specialists working at independent pharmacies were more positive toward pharmacotherapeutic aspects as compared to the specialists working at chain or state pharmacies. Pharmacotherapeutic aspects were rated better by pharmacy specialists, aged ≥55 years, than those younger than 45 years. Moreover, the attitudes of 45–54-year-old pharmacy specialists toward the socioeconomic aspects were more positive as compared with those of 35–44-year olds. Pharmacists rated the socioeconomic aspects of pharmaceutical service quality worse as compared with pharmacy technicians. The attitudes of pharmacy specialists working at pharmacies with 6–9 specialists were more negative toward pharmacotherapeutic aspects than those of the pharmacies with 1–2 specialists. Pharmacy specialists working at pharmacies with ≥10 specialists reported lower scores of socioeconomic aspects as compared to those working at pharmacies with fewer specialists. Men evaluated both pharmacotherapeutic and socioeconomic aspects worse than women. The evaluation of pharmaceutical service quality did not differ by pharmacy location. Conclusions. Two dimensions of pharmaceutical service quality were determined. According to Lithuanian pharmacy specialists, the quality of pharmacotherapeutic aspects at community pharmacies was worse than that of socioeconomic aspects. The evaluation of the quality of pharmaceutical service significantly differed according to the specialists’ sex, age, qualification, and type and size of pharmacies.
Incidence and Outcomes of Patients with Functionally Univentricular Heart Born in Latvia, 2007 to 2015
Authors: Rutka Katrina , Lubaua Inguna , Ligere Elina , Smildzere Amanda , Ozolins Valts , Balmaks Reinis
Published: June 2018

Background and Objectives: A functionally univentricular heart is the term used to describe congenital heart defects where it is impossible to restore two pumping chambers. These lesions are associated with high mortality, morbidity, and medical resource utilization. The aim of this study was to review incidence and outcomes of patients with a functionally univentricular heart at the only pediatric cardiac surgery center in Latvia. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of medical records of (i) all children with a functionally univentricular heart treated at the Clinic of Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, and (ii) all prenatally diagnosed cases of univentricular heart at Children’s Clinical University Hospital in Latvia. We reviewed data regarding children born from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2015. The children’s cardiac anatomy and interventions were categorized in accordance with the International Pediatric and Congenital Cardiac Code (v3.3). Results: During the study period, 49 patients with a functionally univentricular heart were admitted to Children’s Clinical University Hospital with a corrected incidence of 0.69 per 1000 live births per year. There were 26 patients that had a hypoplastic left ventricle, and 22 patients that had a hypoplastic right ventricle, while one patient had an indeterminate ventricle. Thirty (61.2%) patients had died by the end of data collection. Twenty-one of the 30 deaths occurred before or immediately after stage I surgical palliation. Cumulative neonatal and 5-year survival of patients with a hypoplastic right ventricle was 81.8% and 63.6%, respectively; for patients with hypoplastic left ventricle—46.2% and 17.3%, respectively. Discussion: This is the first mid-term outcome study of patients with a univentricular heart in Latvia. The high mortality reflects the challenges of a small-volume, developing congenital cardiac surgery center. Data from this study will be used as a baseline for quality improvement.
Hydrometallurgical Process for Selective Metals Recovery from Waste-Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Kamberović Željko , Ranitović Milisav , Korać Marija , Andjić Zoran , Gajić Nataša , Djokić Jovana , Jevtić Sanja
Published: June 2018

This paper presents an experimentally-proved hydrometallurgical process for selective metals recovery from the waste-printed circuit boards (WPCBs) using a combination of conventional and time-saving methods: leaching, cementation, precipitation, reduction and electrowinning. According to the results obtained in the laboratory tests, 92.4% Cu, 98.5% Pb, 96.8% Ag and over 99% Au could be selectively leached and recovered using mineral acids: sulfuric, nitric and aqua regia. Problematic tin recovery was addressed with comprehensive theoretical and experimental work, so 55.4% of Sn could be recovered through the novel physical method, which consists of two-step phase separation. Based on the results, an integral hydrometallurgical route for selective base and precious metals recovery though consecutive steps, (i) Cu, (ii) Sn, (iii) Pb and Ag, and (iv) Au, was developed. The route was tested at scaled-up laboratory level, confirming feasibility of the process and efficiencies of metals recovery. According to the obtained results, the proposed hydrometallurgical route represents an innovative and promising method for selective metals recovery from WPCBs, particularly applicable in small scale hydrometallurgical environments, focused on medium and high grade WPCBs recycling.
3D Multiphysical Modelling of Fluid Dynamics and Mass Transfer in Laser Welding of Dissimilar Materials
Authors: Wu Jiazhou , Zhang Hua , Feng Yan , Luo Bingbing
Published: June 2018

A three-dimensional multiphysical transient model was developed to investigate keyhole formation, weld pool dynamics, and mass transfer in laser welding of dissimilar materials. The coupling of heat transfer, fluid flow, keyhole free surface evolution, and solute diffusion between dissimilar metals was simulated. The adaptive heat source model was used to trace the change of keyhole shape, and the Rayleigh scattering of the laser beam was considered. The keyhole wall was calculated using the fluid volume equation, primarily considering the recoil pressure induced by metal evaporation, surface tension, and hydrostatic pressure. Fluid flow, diffusion, and keyhole formation were considered simultaneously in mass transport processes. Welding experiments of 304L stainless steel and industrial pure titanium TA2 were performed to verify the simulation results. It is shown that spatters are shaped during the welding process. The thickness of the intermetallic reaction layer between the two metals and the diffusion of elements in the weld are calculated, which are important criteria for welding quality. The simulation results correspond well with the experimental results.
Tuning Low Cycle Fatigue Properties of Cu-Be-Co-Ni Alloy by Precipitation Design
Authors: Tang Yanchuan , Kang Yonglin , Liu Dejia , Shen Mingxue , Hu Yong , Zhao Longzhi
Published: June 2018

As material for key parts applied in the aerospace field, the Cu-Be-Co-Ni alloy sustains cyclic plastic deformation in service, resulting in the low cycle fatigue (LCF) failure. The LCF behaviors are closely related to the precipitation states of the alloy, but the specific relevance is still unknown. To provide reasonable regulation of the LCF properties for various service conditions, the effect of precipitation states on the LCF behaviors of the alloy was investigated. It is found that the alloy composed fully of non-shearable γ′ precipitates has higher fatigue crack initiation resistance, resulting in a longer fatigue life under LCF process with low total strain amplitude. The alloy with fine shearable γ′I precipitates presents higher fatigue crack propagation resistance, leading to a longer fatigue life under LCF process with high total strain amplitude. The cyclic stress response behavior of the alloy depends on the competition between the kinematic hardening and isotropic softening. The fine shearable γ′I precipitates retard the decrease of effective stress during cyclic loading, causing cyclic hardening of the alloy. The present work would help to design reasonable precipitation states of the alloy for various cyclic loading conditions to guarantee its safety in service.
Improving Elevated-Temperature Strength of an Al–Mn–Si Alloy by Strain-Induced Precipitation
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Jin Wei , Hao Xuanzhang , Qiu Feng , Zhao Qinglong
Published: June 2018

The coupled effect of strain-induced precipitation and stabilized substructure on the elevated-temperature strength of an Al–Mn–Si alloy and its thermal stability have been investigated. Prestrain significantly promotes the nucleation of nano-sized dispersoids, and strain-induced precipitation suppresses recrystallization, stabilizing substructure at elevated temperatures. Compared with the dispersoids formed during the heat treatment of as-cast alloy, substructure does not increase the coarsening rate of strain-induced precipitates. The strain-induced precipitation and stabilized substructure profoundly strengthen the aluminum alloy at the elevated temperature (300 °C).
Noise Source Visualization for Small DC Motors Using Current Reference without a Reference Microphone
Authors: Cho Yong Thung
Published: June 2018

Noise and vibration sources from small direct current (DC) motors should be clearly visualized for optimal design of low noise motors. For accurate visualization, relatively good reference measurements at optimal locations are required. For some very small motors, the optimal position for a stationary reference microphone may not be accessible during measurement. However, strategies for small motor noise visualization without using a reference microphone have been developed in this study. Only scanning microphones and current measurements of a small motor were used to visualize sound sources. Scanning microphone signals combined with current measurements were used as moving reference signals. Motor noise visualization results based on different moving reference locations have been estimated and reported. Consistent motor noise visualization results from motor current and different, moving reference locations for the major electro-magnetic force excitation frequencies have been shown. Furthermore, for frequencies with relatively low current amplitude, clear motor noise visualization results have been produced for a moving reference located at the center of the motor. Also, the relationship between motor noise and current has been shown, and motor noise has been reduced by connecting an optimal capacitor to the motor power input.
Hydrothermal Synthesized and Alkaline Activated Carbons Prepared from Glucose and Fructose—Detailed Characterization and Testing in Heavy Metals and Methylene Blue Removal
Authors: Krstić Sanja , Kragović Milan , Pagnacco Maja , Dodevski Vladimir , Kaluđerović Branka , Momčilović Miloš , Ristović Ivica , Stojmenović Marija
Published: June 2018

In the presented paper, activated carbons were prepared from fructose and glucose, and activating agents (KOH, NaOH, LiOH) by hydrothermal treatment (HTC) treatment. After preparation, samples were characterized in details. Different techniques were used: x-ray powder diffraction analysis, Raman spectral analysis, elemental analysis, and determination of textural and morphological properties. Obtained results showed dependence of investigated properties and the nature of precursors (glucose or fructose) as well as the type of hydroxides used as activating agents. After characterization, samples were tested as materials for heavy metals (Pb2+, Cd2+ and Zn2+) and methylene blue removal. Also, adsorption experiments were performed on wastewaters taken from tailings of the lead and zinc mine and kinetic of the methylene blue removal was studied. The factors which distinguished the KOH activated samples were high yield (~14%), content of organic carbon (63–74%), porosity and specific surface area (SBET ~700–1360 m2/g), a low degree of the crystal phase, indications that potassium ions may be included in heavy metals removal, good removal of the heavy metal ions (~47–59 mg/g for Pb2+, ~21–27 mg/g for Cd2+ and ~6–10 mg/g for Zn2+) and fast (~10–30 min) and good methylene blue (~60–200 mg/g) removal.
Comparison of Characteristics and DNAzyme Activity of G4–Hemin Conjugates Obtained via Two Hemin Attachment Methods
Authors: Kosman Joanna , Żukowski Krzysztof , Juskowiak Bernard
Published: June 2018

Two conjugation methods using different linkers were applied for the investigation of the spectral characteristics and activity of G-quadruplex (G4)–hemin conjugates. For this purpose, two G-quadruplex-forming DNA sequences were selected, and then conjugated to a hemin molecule via either amine coupling or a click reaction. The products obtained via these two methods differed in their chemistry and the length of the linker between the DNA and hemin molecules. Spectral characteristics revealed that both methods produced conjugates that were more thermally stable than G4/hemin complexes. Despite similar spectral characteristics, the conjugates obtained via these two methods differed in their DNAzyme activity. G4–hemin conjugates obtained through amine coupling exhibited higher activity than conjugates obtained through a click reaction. This was potentially due to the length and chemistry of the linker, which was 30 atoms long following the click reaction, but only six atoms long following amine coupling. A longer connector favors higher flexibility, and hence, reduces the binding of hemin with G4. The aromatic groups present in the linker obtained through the click reaction can also disturb the G4–hemin interaction. However, the conjugation of G4 DNA to hemin via the click reaction was connected to a higher yield, and did not require any sophisticated synthesis equipment.
Separation of Active Compounds from Food by-Product (Cocoa Shell) Using Subcritical Water Extraction
Authors: Jokić Stela , Gagić Tanja , Knez Željko , Šubarić Drago , Škerget Mojca
Published: June 2018

Large amounts of residues are produced in the food industries. The waste shells from cocoa processing are usually burnt for fuel or used as a mulch in gardens to add nutrients to soil and to suppress weeds. The objectives of this work were: (a) to separate valuable compounds from cocoa shell by applying sustainable green separation process—subcritical water extraction (SWE); (b) identification and quantification of active compounds, sugars and sugar degradation products in obtained extracts using HPLC; (c) characterization of the antioxidant activity of extracts; (d) optimization of separation process using response surface methodology (RSM). Depending on applied extraction conditions, different concentration of theobromine, caffeine, theophylline, epicatechin, catechin, chlorogenic acid and gallic acid were determined in the extracts obtained by subcritical water. Furthermore, mannose, glucose, xylose, arabinose, rhamnose and fucose were detected as well as their important degradation products such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), furfural, levulinic acid, lactic acid and formic acid.
Structure–Activity Relationship of the Tyrosinase Inhibitors Kuwanon G, Mulberrofuran G, and Albanol B from Morus Species: A Kinetics and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Koirala Prashamsa , Seong Su Hui , Zhou Yajuan , Shrestha Srijan , Jung Hyun Ah , Choi Jae Sue
Published: June 2018

Kuwanon G (KG) and benzofuran flavonoids such as mulberrofuran G (MG) and albanol B (AB) isolated from Morus sp. are reported to exhibit anti-Alzheimer’s disease, anti-inflammatory, fungicidal, anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-tyrosinase properties. We investigated the inhibition of mono- and diphenolase activity of mushroom tyrosinase by KG, MG, and AB. KG and MG displayed acceptable inhibition activity compared to kojic acid. AB did not show any activity up to 350 µM. MG displayed six-fold higher inhibition of l-tyrosine oxidation (IC50 = 6.35 ± 0.45 µM) compared to kojic acid (IC50 = 36.0 µM). Kinetic studies revealed that KG and MG inhibited monophenolase activity of tyrosinase in a competitive manner. Docking simulations of KG and MG demonstrated favorable binding energies with amino acid residues of the active sites of tyrosinase. Our investigation of the structure-activity relationship of the fused benzofuran flavonoids (MG vs. AB) implicated the methyl cyclohexene ring moiety in tyrosinase inhibition. The enzyme substrate and relative structural analyses demonstrated that KG and MG from Morus sp. could be useful natural tyrosinase inhibitors in foods or cosmetics.
Prussian Blue Nanoparticles as a Versatile Photothermal Tool
Authors: Dacarro Giacomo , Taglietti Angelo , Pallavicini Piersandro
Published: June 2018

Prussian blue (PB) is a coordination polymer studied since the early 18th century, historically known as a pigment. PB can be prepared in colloidal form with a straightforward synthesis. It has a strong charge-transfer absorption centered at ~700 nm, with a large tail in the Near-IR range. Irradiation of this band results in thermal relaxation and can be exploited to generate a local hyperthermia by irradiating in the so-called bio-transparent Near-IR window. PB nanoparticles are fully biocompatible (PB has already been approved by FDA) and biodegradable, this making them ideal candidates for in vivo use. While papers based on the imaging, drug-delivery and absorbing properties of PB nanoparticles have appeared and have been reviewed in the past decades, a very recent interest is flourishing with the use of PB nanoparticles as photothermal agents in biomedical applications. This review summarizes the syntheses and the optical features of PB nanoparticles in relation to their photothermal use and describes the state of the art of PB nanoparticles as photothermal agents, also in combination with diagnostic techniques.
A Novel Method for the Combined Photocatalytic Activity Determination and Bandgap Estimation
Authors: Pierpaoli Mattia , Favoni Orlando , Fava Gabriele , Ruello Maria Letizia
Published: June 2018

The ability of a photocatalyst to degrade a target pollutant is a commonly used method to assess its effectiveness for environmental applications, while ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and spectroscopic ellipsometry are conventional techniques for the estimation of a semiconductor band gap. In this work, an array of six light-emitting diodes (LEDs), characterized by different emission peaks between 470–370 nm and absorbed power of 3 W, was implemented into an existing standard testing apparatus for the testing of nitrogen oxides degradation in air. The abatement indexes, obtained under different LEDs irradiation, were firstly compared to the ones determined according the standard and, secondly, correlated with the measured LED emission spectrum, in order to estimate the photocatalyst band gap. Results suggest that this expeditious technique can be easily implemented into existing testing apparatus for the estimation of the band gap and for the appraisal of photocatalytic materials under realistic conditions.
Modified Sequential Deposition Route through Localized-Liquid-Liquid-Diffusion for Improved Perovskite Multi-Crystalline Thin Films with Micrometer-Scaled Grains for Solar Cells
Authors: Ling Tao , Zou Xiaoping , Cheng Jin , Bai Xiao , Ren Haiyan , Chen Dan
Published: June 2018

High-class perovskite film with beautiful surface morphology (such as large-size grain, low defect density, good continuity and flatness) is normally believed to be a very important factor for high-efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, we report a modified sequential deposition route through localized-liquid-liquid-diffusion (LLLD) for qualified perovskite multi-crystalline thin films with micrometer-scaled grains for solar cells. We adopted a contact-type drop method to drop Methylammonium iodide (MAI) solution and have successfully used high-concentration MAI solution (73 mg/mL) to transform PbI2 film into high-class perovskite film via our route. A high efficiency of 10.7% was achieved for the device with spongy carbon film deposited on a separated FTO-substrate as a counter electrode under one sun illumination, which is the highest efficiency (as 2.5 times as previous efficiency) ever recorded in perovskite solar cells with a such spongy carbon/FTO composite counter electrode. The preparation techniques of high-class perovskite thin films under ambient conditions and the cheap spongy carbon/FTO composite counter electrode are beneficial for large-scale applications and commercialization.
Facet-Dependent Cuprous Oxide Nanocrystals Decorated with Graphene as Durable Photocatalysts under Visible Light
Authors: Liu Shou-Heng , Lu Jun-Sheng
Published: June 2018

Three morphologies (octahedral, hierarchical and rhombic dodecahedral) of crystal Cu2O with different facets ({111}, {111}/{110}, and {110}) incorporating graphene sheets (denoted as o-Cu2O-G, h-Cu2O-G and r-Cu2O-G, respectively) have been fabricated by using simple solution-phase techniques. Among these photocatalysts, the r-Cu2O-G possesses the best photocatalytic performance of 98% removal efficiency of methyl orange (MO) with outstanding kinetics for 120 min of visible light irradiation. This enhancement is mainly due to the dangling “Cu” atoms in the highly active {110} facets, resulting in the increased adsorption of negatively charged MO. More importantly, the unique interfacial structures of Cu2O rhombic dodecahedra connected to graphene nanosheets can not only decrease the recombination of electron-hole pairs but also stabilize the crystal structure of Cu2O, as verified by a series of spectroscopic analyses (e.g., X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM)). The effective photocatalysts developed in this work could be applied to the efficient decolorization of negatively charged organic dyes by employing solar energy.
An Overview of Whole Grain Regulations, Recommendations and Research across Southeast Asia
Authors: Brownlee Iain A , Durukan Ece , Masset Gabriel , Hopkins Sinead , Tee E-Siong
Published: June 2018

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a diverse region that is experiencing economic growth and increased non-communicable disease burden. This paper aims to evaluate the current regulations, dietary recommendations and research related to whole grains in this region. To do this, a systematic literature review was carried out and information was collected on regulations and dietary recommendations from each member state. The majority of publications on whole grains from the region (99 of 147) were in the area of food science and technology, with few observational studies (n = 13) and human intervention studies (n = 10) related to whole grains being apparent. Information from six countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) was available. Wholegrain food-labelling regulations were only noted in Malaysia and Singapore. Public health recommendation related to whole grains were apparent in four countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore), while recent intake data from whole grains was only apparent from Malaysia, The Philippines and Singapore. In all cases, consumption of whole grains appeared to be very low. These findings highlight a need for further monitoring of dietary intake in the region and further strategies targeted at increasing the intake of whole grains.
Women’s Beliefs on Early Adherence to Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer: A Theory-Based Qualitative Study to Guide the Development of Community Pharmacist Interventions
Authors: Humphries Brittany , Collins Stéphanie , Guillaumie Laurence , Lemieux Julie , Dionne Anne , Provencher Louise , Moisan Jocelyne , Lauzier Sophie
Published: June 2018

Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) taken for a minimum of five years reduces the recurrence and mortality risks among women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer. However, adherence to AET is suboptimal. To guide the development of theory-based interventions to enhance AET adherence, we conducted a study to explore beliefs regarding early adherence to AET. This qualitative study was guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). We conducted focus groups and individual interviews among women prescribed AET in the last two years (n = 43). The topic guide explored attitudinal (perceived advantages and disadvantages), normative (perception of approval or disapproval), and control beliefs (barriers and facilitating factors) towards adhering to AET. Thematic analysis was conducted. Most women had a positive attitude towards AET regardless of their medication-taking behavior. The principal perceived advantage was protection against a recurrence while the principal inconvenience was side effects. Almost everyone approved of the woman taking her medication. The women mentioned facilitating factors to encourage medication-taking behaviors and cope with side effects. For adherent women, having trouble establishing a routine was their main barrier to taking medication. For non-adherent women, it was side effects affecting their quality of life. These findings could inform the development of community pharmacy-based adherence interventions.
Comparative Adhesion, Ageing Resistance, and Surface Properties of Wood Plastic Composite Treated with Low Pressure Plasma and Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet
Authors: Yáñez-Pacios Andrés , Martín-Martínez José
Published: June 2018

Wood plastic composites (WPCs) have poor adhesion properties due to their high surface concentration in non-polar polymers. In this work, two different plasma surface treatments, low pressure plasma (LPP) and atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ), are proposed to increase the surface energy and adhesion property of WPC made with polyethylene (PE-WPC). After optimizing the conditions for each plasma surface treatment, the surface modifications and adhesion of PE-WPC treated with LPP and APPJ were compared. The optimal surface modifications of PE-WPC were obtained by treatment with Argon (Ar): Oxygen (O2) LPP for 90 s, and with air APPJ by using a plasma nozzle-WPC surface distance of one centimeter and speed of platform of one meter per minute. Both plasma treatments produced similar chemical modifications and surface energies on the PE-WPC surface. The ablation was more important for Ar:O2 LPP treatment, and the air APPJ treatment produced more extensive chemical modifications and more homogeneously removal of the wood component of the surface, rendering the polymer surface smoother. Adhesion of PE-WPC was similarly improved by treatment with both plasmas, from 56 N/m in the as-received to 92–102 N/m in the plasma treated PE-WPC joints. The influence of ageing at 24 °C and 40% relative humidity of the adhesive joints made with PE-WPC surface and treated with Ar:O2 LPP and APPJ plasmas was studied. In the joints made with plasma-treated PE-WPC aged under open air for more than one day, the adhesion decreased. An adhesive strength near to that of the joint made with the as-received PE-WPC was obtained after six days. However, if the adhesive joint was created immediately after plasma treatment and peeled at different times, the adhesion was maintained and even increased, and the hydrophobic recovery of the plasma-treated PE-WPC surface was inhibited.
Application of the Products from the Maillard Reaction of Polyglutamic Acid and Glucose to Prepare Colored and Bioactive Silk
Authors: Zhang Wen , Tang Ren-Cheng
Published: June 2018

In this work, the Maillard reaction of polyglutamic acid (PGA) and glucose (Glc) was studied, and its functional, polymeric, and colored products were used to dye silk fiber with the aim of imparting bioactivities to silk. The UV–Vis spectroscopic analysis, which was employed to monitor the reaction, revealed the rapid formation of yellowish-brown products at pH 12 and 90 °C, and the great impact of glucose content on the quantity of the products. The FT-IR analysis validated the formation of melanoidin colorants. The silk fiber dyed with the PGA/Glc reaction products at pH 3 displayed a yellowish-brown color, and had very good wash and rub fastness, but poor light fastness. The incorporation of the UV-absorbing moiety into the PGA/Glc reaction products enhanced their light stability. The SEM analysis revealed that the dyed silk fiber was covered by polymeric substances. The dyed silk exhibited durable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and good antioxidant activity. This research expands the application field of the Maillard reaction and provides a novel and eco-friendly approach to prepare the colored and bioactive silk materials.
Recent Advances on Octahedral Polypyridyl Ruthenium(II) Complexes as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Yang Yulin , Liao Guojian , Fu Chen
Published: June 2018

Recent developments of therapeutic agents based on transition metals have attracted a great deal of attention. Metal drugs have advantages over other small molecule drugs, and it was demonstrated that, in a number of studies, they played an important role in pharmaceutical chemical research and clinical chemotherapy of cancers. It is worthwhile mentioning that octahedral polypyridyl ruthenium(II) complexes have shown remarkable applications in chemical biology and medicinal chemistry over the last decade. However, only very recently has there been comprehensive interest in their antimicrobial properties due to metal-related toxic concerns or neglected potential roles in microbiological systems. Our review will highlight the recent developments in octahedral polypyridyl ruthenium(III) complexes that have exhibited significant antimicrobial activities and will discuss the relationship between the chemical structure and biological process of ruthenium complexes, in both bacterial and fungal cells.
Modelling Condensation and Simulation for Wheat Germ Drying in Fluidized Bed Dryer
Authors: Chan Der-Sheng , Chan Jun-Sheng , Kuo Meng-I
Published: June 2018

A low-temperature drying with fluidized bed dryer (FBD) for wheat germ (WG) stabilization could prevent the loss of nutrients during processing. However, both evaporation and condensation behaviors occurred in sequence during FBD drying of WG. The objective of this study was to develop a theoretical thin-layer model coupling with the macro-heat transfer model and the bubble model for simulating both the dehydration and condensation behaviors of WG during low-temperature drying in the FBD. The experimental data were also collected for the model modification. Changes in the moisture content of WG, the air temperature of FBD chamber, and the temperature of WG during drying with different heating approaches were significantly different. The thermal input of WG drying with short heating time approach was one-third of that of WG drying with a traditional heating approach. The mathematical model developed in this study could predict the changes of the moisture content of WG and provide a good understanding of the condensation phenomena of WG during FBD drying.
The Case of Hirose Akira: The Ethical Predicament of a Japanese Buddhist Youth during World War II
Authors: Terasawa Kunihiko
Published: June 2018

The Japanese Buddhist clergy’s collaboration with the Japanese war machine during the Fifteen Year War (1931–1945) is notorious. Yet the struggles of ordinary lay Buddhist youths during World War II remain less publicized. This article examines the case of a young Shinshū Buddhist soldier, Hirose Akira, 廣瀬明 (1919–1947), and scrutinizes the diary he kept between 1939 and 1946. Mobilized between February 1942 and January 1945, Hirose became increasingly disillusioned, especially when he witnessed injustices and the officers’ thoughtlessness in ordering junior soldiers to make sacrifices while enjoying their privileges. His diary reveals an early skepticism toward the Japanese embrace of expansionism and the hypocrisy of its justifications for the war of aggression waged against China and Asia as a whole. Independently from the battle’s fate, by 1944 Hirose considered that Japan was already defeated because of what he saw as “her own people’s ego and selfishness.”
Extraction of Photosynthesis Parameters from Time Series Measurements of In Situ Production: Bermuda Atlantic Time-Series Study
Authors: Kovač Žarko , Platt Trevor , Sathyendranath Shubha , Lomas Michael
Published: June 2018

Computing the vertical structure of primary production in ocean ecosystem models requires information about the vertical distribution of available light, chlorophyll concentration and photosynthesis response parameters. Conversely, given information on vertical structure of chlorophyll and light, we can extract photosynthesis parameters from vertical profiles of primary production measured at sea, as we illustrate here for the Bermuda Atlantic Time-Series Study. The procedure is based on a model of the production profile, which itself depends on the underwater light field. To model the light field, attenuation coefficients were estimated from measured optical profiles using a simple model of exponential decay of photosynthetically-available irradiance with depth, which accounted for 97% of the variance in the measured optical data. With the underwater light climate known, an analytical solution for the production profile was employed to recover photosynthesis parameters by minimizing the residual model error. The recovered parameters were used to model normalized production profiles and normalized watercolumn production. The model explained 95% of the variance in the measured normalized production at depth and 97% of the variance in measured normalized watercolumn production. A shifted Gaussian function was used to model biomass profiles and accounted for 93% of the variance in measured biomass at depth. An analytical solution for watercolumn production with the shifted Gaussian biomass was also tested. With the recovered photosynthesis parameters, maximum instantaneous growth rates were estimated by using a literature value for the carbon-to-chlorophyll ratio in this region of the Atlantic. An exact relationship between the maximum instantaneous growth rate and the daily growth rate in the ocean was derived. It was shown that calculating the growth rate by dividing the production by the carbon-to-chlorophyll ratio is equivalent to calculating it from the ratio of the final to the initial biomass, even when production is time dependent. Finally, the seasonal cycle of the recovered assimilation number at the Bermuda Station was constructed and analysed. The presented approach enables the estimation of photosynthesis parameters and growth rates from measured production profiles with only a few model assumptions, and increases the utility of in situ primary production measurements. The retrieved parameters have direct applications in satellite-based estimates of primary production from ocean-colour data, of which we give an example.