bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High temperature oxidation behavior of laser clad Co–Cr–Mo coating on γ-TiAl substrate
Authors: Barekat Masoud , Shoja Razavi Reza , Ghasemi Ali
Published: July 2016

In this work, Co–Cr–Mo powder is used to form laser clads on a γ-TiAl substrate. The oxidation behavior of Co-Cr-Mo alloys in air at 900 °C for 10 and 480 h has been studied. The results show that the uniform, fine, and defect-free microstructure of Co-Cr-Mo coating was prepared by laser cladding. The clad coating consisted of γ-Co (fcc), ε-Co (hcp), and Cr23C6. The specific mass gain as a function with the number of cycle plot was parabolic, which indicated that diffusion has controlled the oxidation process. At short time (10 h), the oxide scale formed on the surface was composed mainly of Cr2O3. With the increase in the duration of oxidation from 10 to 480 h, the thickness of the oxide film increased from about 1–1.5 to 6–6.5 μm. The analyses of oxide scale formed after long time (480 h) showed that layer II composed of CoCr2O4 formed on the Cr2O3 (layer I). When the thickness of the Cr2O3 layer increased, the defects such as porosity and microchannels were formed in oxide scale. Cobalt diffused from these defects to surface and with increasing the oxidation time, CoCr2O4 formed and covered the surface of oxide scale.
Cigarette Smoke Formation Studies. I. Distribution and Mainstream Products From Added 14C- Dotriacontane-16,17
Authors: Jenkins R.W. Jr. , Newman R.H. , Carpenter R.D. , Osdene T.S.
Published: July 2016

The distribution of
Measurement of Paper Porosity
Authors: Butters D.
Published: July 2016

The ''porosity'' or ''air permeability'' of cigarette tissue is measured by many different instruments, is expressed in various units and it is frequently impossible to correlate such measurements and the readings of such instruments. The property of a paper whereby it allows air and gases to pass through it while still containing the burning tobacco rod is of great and increasing interest in both the Research Laboratory and Raw Material Control Laboratory of the cigarette and filter rod manufacturer. Interest in papers of higher air permeability continues to grow, particularly in regard to the so-called ''Health Hazards of Smoking", and thus the effect of smoke dilution. Such interest by the cigarette and filter rod manufacturer necessarily means that the paper manufacturer must pay especial attention to this property during paper manufacture and in development work. He also requires to define and measure the property in his control and research laboratories. Unfortunately, there is no common language to describe this property and as interest in higher porosities grows so the shortcomings of some methods of measurement are highlighted. The situation is further complicated by the need of control laboratories for robust, simple to operate instruments, while a research laboratory might be more interested in accuracy and precision, while being less affected by the demands of careful operation and manipulation. Likely sample sizes can also vary, from small spills cut from individual cigarettes or rods, through long narrow skeins to the papermakers' sheets. A standard definition of air permeability of a sheet of paper has therefore been proposed and an instrument has been designed, using this definition, to meet the requirements of all interested parties. A number of these instruments have been built and proved by practical usage
Undergraduate, Female, Nutrition Students’ Perceptions of Curricular Influence on Attitudes toward Individuals with Obesity
Authors: Dwyer John J. M. , Starr Andrea , Mills Christine , Haines Jess
Published: July 2016

Purpose: This qualitative study, guided by a phenomenological approach, explored senior-level undergraduate, nutrition students’ perceptions of how obesity and weight bias were addressed in the undergraduate curricula and how the curricula influenced their attitudes toward individuals with obesity.

Methods: Twenty senior-level undergraduate, nutrition students from the University of Guelph participated in interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis entailed open, axial, and selective coding.

Results: Participants’ sources of information about obesity in the curricula included nutrition courses, case studies, and non-nutrition courses. Regarding sources of information about weight bias in the curricula, they discussed nutrition courses, non-nutrition courses, and limited coverage of weight bias. Themes for curricular influence on attitudes toward people with obesity were increased knowledge of obesity, understanding the complexity of obesity, increased empathy toward individuals with obesity, and better ability to avoid stereotypes toward people with obesity.

Conclusions: The perceptions among nutrition students varied regarding the amount and type of obesity and weight-bias information in the curricula, as well as the influence of the curricula on attitudes toward individuals with obesity, suggesting that obesity and weight bias warrant more coordinated coverage in the nutrition curricula.
Energy Intake and Food Habits between Weight Maintainers and Regainers, Five Years after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Reid Ryan E. R. , Oparina Ekaterina , Plourde Hugues , Andersen Ross E.
Published: July 2016

We explored differences in dietary behaviours, energy, and macronutrient intake among individuals who had regained or maintained weight loss 5 or more years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). This study assessed 27 adults who underwent RYGB an average of 12.1 ± 3.7 years before this study was conducted. Dietary assessment was performed using 3-day food records. Daily energy intake (kcal), protein (g), carbohydrate (g), fat (g), and alcohol intake (g) were computed using the ESHA’s Food Processor®. Participants were classified by percent weight loss, maintainers (≥38 %), and regainers (≤30 %). Daily carbohydrate consumption was greater in regainers (222 ± 84.3 g) compared with maintainers (162 ± 67.5 g), (P < 0.05). Thirty-seven percent of participants were not consuming the recommended amount of protein and 26% reported never taking vitamin supplements after surgery. Alcohol consumption was higher among regainers (18.5 ± 30.9 g) compared with maintainers (2.6 ± 6.5 g), (P < 0.05). Finally, 74% of the participants reported no contact with a Registered Dietitian, whereas 78 % were in contact with a health care professional once a year post-surgery. Differences were seen in carbohydrate intake and alcohol consumption between weight maintainers and regainers. These data suggest dietitians need to play a more active role in the long-term care of this medically complex population.
Human papillomavirus vaccination guideline update: American Cancer Society guideline endorsement
Authors: Saslow Debbie , Andrews Kimberly S. , Manassaram‐Baptiste Deana , Loomer Lacey , Lam Kristina E. , Fisher‐Borne Marcie , Smith Robert A. , Fontham Elizabeth T. H. ,   on behalf of the American Cancer Society Guideline Development Group
Published: July 2016

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE

The American Cancer Society (ACS) reviewed and updated its guideline on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination based on a methodologic and content review of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) HPV vaccination recommendations. A literature review was performed to supplement the evidence considered by the ACIP and to address new vaccine formulations and recommendations as well as new data on population outcomes since publication of the 2007 ACS guideline. The ACS Guideline Development Group determined that the evidence supports ACS endorsement of the ACIP recommendations, with one qualifying statement related to late vaccination. The ACS recommends vaccination of all children at ages 11 and 12 years to protect against HPV infections that lead to several cancers and precancers. Late vaccination for those not vaccinated at the recommended ages should be completed as soon as possible, and individuals should be informed that vaccination may not be effective at older ages. CA Cancer J Clin 2016;66:375–385. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Predictions of Physicochemical Properties of Ionic Liquids with DFT
Authors: Karu Karl , Ruzanov Anton , Ers Heigo , Ivaništšev Vladislav , Lage-Estebanez Isabel , García de la Vega José
Published: July 2016

Nowadays, density functional theory (DFT)-based high-throughput computational approach is becoming more efficient and, thus, attractive for finding advanced materials for electrochemical applications. In this work, we illustrate how theoretical models, computational methods, and informatics techniques can be put together to form a simple DFT-based throughput computational workflow for predicting physicochemical properties of room-temperature ionic liquids. The developed workflow has been used for screening a set of 48 ionic pairs and for analyzing the gathered data. The predicted relative electrochemical stabilities, ionic charges and dynamic properties of the investigated ionic liquids are discussed in the light of their potential practical applications.
Noise Suppression in 94 GHz Radar-Detected Speech Based on Perceptual Wavelet Packet
Authors: Chen Fuming , Li Chuantao , An Qiang , Liang Fulai , Qi Fugui , Li Sheng , Wang Jianqi
Published: July 2016

A millimeter wave (MMW) radar sensor is employed in our laboratory to detect human speech because it provides a new non-contact speech acquisition method that is suitable for various applications. However, the speech detected by the radar sensor is often degraded by combined noise. This paper proposes a new perceptual wavelet packet method that is able to enhance the speech acquired using a 94 GHz MMW radar system by suppressing the noise. The process is as follows. First, the radar speech signal is decomposed using a perceptual wavelet packet. Then, an adaptive wavelet threshold and new modified thresholding function are employed to remove the noise from the detected speech. The results obtained from the speech spectrograms, listening tests and objective evaluation show that the new method significantly improves the performance of the detected speech.
Influence Determination of Social Responsibility to the Productivity Enterprise Activity Level
Authors: Kavun Sergii , Zhosan Ganna
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this paper is to develop a scientific and methodical approach for determination of the comprehensive social responsibility indicator in this paper based on estimation of influence degree for the economical, ecological, social and labour, standard and legal components. There is allowance for determining of some level of enterprise social responsibility. In addition, there is a basis for development some ways of their increasing. The essence of the used approach is clotting of the individual indicators set to four intermediate indicators of the economic, ecological, social and labor, standard and legal components, which can be boiled down to the generalizing activity productivity indicator based on the matrix and range approach. An economical and mathematical model of the social responsibility influence level to the enterprise activity productivity level, which is based on enterprise propose harmonization with the participants’ interests, was being built. The paper proposes the mathematical model, which allows detecting a necessary time period for enterprise activity productivity ensuring due to social responsibility implementation.
Risk Assessment of Distribution Networks Considering the Charging-Discharging Behaviors of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yang Jun , Hao Wanmeng , Chen Lei , Chen Jiejun , Jin Jing , Wang Feng
Published: July 2016

Electric vehicles (EVs) have received wide attention due to their higher energy efficiency and lower emissions. However, the random charging and discharging behaviors of substantial numbers of EVs may lead to safety risk problems in a distribution network. Reasonable price incentives can guide EVs through orderly charging and discharging, and further provide a feasible solution to reduce the operational risk of the distribution network. Considering three typical electricity prices, EV charging/discharging load models are built. Then, a Probabilistic Load Flow (PLF) method using cumulants and Gram-Charlier series is proposed to obtain the power flow of the distribution network including massive numbers of EVs. In terms of the risk indexes of node voltage and line flow, the operational risk of the distribution network can be estimated in detail. From the simulations of an IEEE-33 bus system and an IEEE 69-bus system, the demonstrated results show that reasonable charging and discharging prices are conducive to reducing the peak-valley difference, and consequently the risks of the distribution network can be decreased to a certain extent.
Spatiotemporal Variations in Snow and Soil Frost—A Review of Measurement Techniques
Authors: Lundberg Angela , Gustafsson David , Stumpp Christine , Kløve Bjørn , Feiccabrino James
Published: July 2016

Large parts of the northern hemisphere are covered by snow and seasonal frost. Climate warming is affecting spatiotemporal variations of snow and frost, hence influencing snowmelt infiltration, aquifer recharge and river runoff patterns. Measurement difficulties have hampered progress in properly assessing how variations in snow and frost impact snowmelt infiltration. This has led to contradicting findings. Some studies indicate that groundwater recharge response is scale dependent. It is thus important to measure snow and soil frost properties with temporal and spatial scales appropriate to improve infiltration process knowledge. The main aim with this paper is therefore to review ground based methods to measure snow properties (depth, density, water equivalent, wetness, and layering) and soil frost properties (depth, water and ice content, permeability, and distance to groundwater) and to make recommendations for process studies aiming to improve knowledge regarding infiltration in regions with seasonal frost. Ground-based radar (GBR) comes in many different combinations and can, depending on design, be used to assess both spatial and temporal variations in snow and frost so combinations of GBR and tracer techniques can be recommended and new promising methods (auocostics and self potential) are evolving, but the study design must be adapted to the scales, the aims and the resources of the study.
The Epidemiologic, Microbiologic and Clinical Picture of Bacteremia among Febrile Infants and Young Children Managed as Outpatients at the Emergency Room, before and after Initiation of the Routine Anti-Pneumococcal Immunization
Authors: Leibovitz Eugene , David Nuphar , Ribitzky-Eisner Haya , Abo Madegam Mouner , Abuabed Said , Chodick Gabriel , Maimon Michal , Fruchtman Yariv
Published: July 2016

We described the occult bacteremia (OB) and bacteremia with diagnosed focus (BwF) picture among children managed as outpatients at the pediatric emergency room (PER) in southern Israel, before and after the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) introduction in a retrospective study enrolling all three- to 36-month-old patients with fever >38.0 °C during 2005–2014. Of 511 (0.82% of all febrile patients) true bacteremias, 230 (45%) were managed as outpatients; 96 of 230 (41.7%) had OB and 134 (3.59%) had BwF. OB and BwF rates were 0.22% and 3.02%, respectively. A significant decrease was noted in OB and BwF rates (p = 0.0008 and p = 0.02, respectively). S. pneumoniae (SP, 37.5%), K. kingae (11.4%) and Brucella spp. (8.7%) were the most common OB pathogens and SP (29.8%), S. viridans (13.4%), and Brucella spp. (12.7%) were the most common in BwF patients. PCV13 serotypes were not found among the serotypes isolated post-PCV13 introduction. During 2010–2014 there was an increase in non-PCV13 serotype isolation (p = 0.005). SP was the main pathogen isolated among patients with pneumonia, acute otitis media (AOM) and periorbital cellulitis (62.5%, 33.3% and 60%, respectively). OB and BwF decreased following the introduction of PCVs and SP was the main pathogen in both conditions. Vaccine-SP serotypes were not isolated in OB after PCV13 introduction and non-vaccine serotypes increased significantly.
Environment and Health: Not Only Cancer
Authors: Colao Annamaria , Muscogiuri Giovanna , Piscitelli Prisco
Published: July 2016

The Hippocratic tradition emphasized environmental causes of diseases and the need for harmony between the individual and the natural environment as the right philosophy to maintain a good health status. Public awareness and scientific attention concerning environmental pollution is usually focused on the consequent increased risk of developing cancer. Air pollution has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) to cause cardiovascular and respiratroy diseases, as well as lung cancer, after acute/chronic exposure to fine particulates (PM2.5 and PM10) even at concentrations which are 50% lower than those accepted as legal limits in many developed countries. An increase of 10 µg/m3 of PM2.5 produces a +4%–6% of overall mortality, a +10% of cardiovascular disease prevalence (arithmyas, acute myocardial infarctions, and heart failure) and a +22% of lung cancer prevalence. In addition to these chronic effects, acute hospitalizations are also affected, especially among susceptible populations such as children and diabetic patients. Water and soil contamination also have an additional detrimental effect on people’s health. Other issues concerning environment contamination and human health include male/female fertility, metabolic and thyroid conditions, but also professional exposures resulting in occupational diseases. Moreover, in the perspective of “gender medicine”, different acute or chronic effects of environmental pollution should be specifically assessed both in men and in women. This special issue on “Environmental Diseases” is aimed at providing a global overview about different threats to human health possibily originating from environmental contamination.
Association by Spatial Interpolation between Ozone Levels and Lung Function of Residents at an Industrial Complex in South Korea
Authors: Jung Soon-Won , Lee Kyoungho , Cho Yong-Sung , Choi Ji-Hee , Yang Wonho , Kang Tack-Shin , Park Choonghee , Kim Geun-Bae , Yu Seung-Do , Son Bu-Soon
Published: July 2016

Spatial interpolation is employed to improve exposure estimates and to assess adverse health effects associated with environmental risk factors. Since various studies have reported that high ozone (O3) concentrations can give rise to adverse effects on respiratory symptoms and lung function, we investigated the association between O3 levels and lung function using a variety of spatial interpolation techniques and evaluated how different methods for estimating exposure may influence health results for a cohort from an industrial complex (Gwangyang Bay) in South Korea in 2009. To estimate daily concentrations of O3 in each subject, four different methods were used, which include simple averaging, nearest neighbor, inverse distance weighting, and kriging. Also, to compare the association between O3 levels and lung function by age-groups, we explored ozone’s impacts on three age-related groups: children (9–14 years), adults (15–64 years), and the elderly (≥65 years). The overall change of effect size on lung function in each age group tended to show similar patterns for lag and methods for estimating exposure. A significant negative association was only observed between O3 levels and FVC and FEV1 for most of the lag and methods in children. The largest effect of O3 levels was found at the average for the lung function test day and last 2 days (0–2 days). In conclusions, the spatial interpolation methods may benefit in providing individual-level exposure with appropriate temporal resolution from ambient monitors. However, time-activity patterns of residents, monitoring site locations, methodological choices, and other factors should be considered to minimize exposure misclassification.
Recognition and Reconstruction of Zebra Crossings on Roads from Mobile Laser Scanning Data
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Da , Ying Shen , Li You
Published: July 2016

Zebra crossings provide guidance and warning to pedestrians and drivers, thereby playing an important role in traffic safety management. Most previous studies have focused on detecting zebra stripes but have not provided full information about the areas, which is critical to both driver assistance systems and guide systems for blind individuals. This paper presents a stepwise procedure for recognizing and reconstructing zebra crossings using mobile laser scanning data. First, we propose adaptive thresholding based on road surface partitioning to reduce the impact of intensity unevenness and improve the accuracy of road marking extraction. Then, dispersion degree filtering is used to reduce the noise. Finally, zebra stripes are recognized according to the rectangular feature and fixed size, which is followed by area reconstruction according to arrangement patterns. We test our method on three datasets captured by an Optech Lynx mobile mapping system. The total recognition rate of 90.91% demonstrates the effectiveness of the method.
A GIS- and Fuzzy Set-Based Online Land Price Evaluation Approach Supported by Intelligence-Aided Decision-Making
Authors: Li Sheng , Zhao Zhigang , Du Qingyun , Qiao Yanjun
Published: July 2016

In recent years, with the reforms to the land use system and the development of urbanization in China, land price evaluation has tended towards marketization. Prices are determined by the government, the land transaction market and the public. It is necessary to propose higher standards to be used in the evaluation process. This paper presents an online land price evaluation approach for convenience in evaluation. In a network environment, taking advantage of the data services provided by various departments, we propose two models to assist in decision-making: (1) a geographic information system (GIS)- and fuzzy set-based location factor quantification model, which adopts dynamic data, rules and quantification measures (based on the road network) to dynamically quantify location factors, thus transforming fuzzy sets into appropriate values; and (2) a neartude-based transaction sample push model, which quantifies the similarity between a given land and other samples, thus providing a basis for decision-making by an appraiser. This approach is applied in Shenzhen to evaluate its ability to simplify the work of appraisers and make their decisions more intuitive and objective in a real case.
Structural Characterization and Evolutionary Relationship of High-Molecular-Weight Glutenin Subunit Genes in Roegneria nakaii and Roegneria alashanica
Authors: Zhang Lujun , Li Zhixin , Fan Renchun , Wei Bo , Zhang Xiangqi
Published: July 2016

The Roegneria of Triticeae is a large genus including about 130 allopolyploid species. Little is known about its high-molecular-weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GSs). Here, we reported six novel HMW-GS genes from R. nakaii and R. alashanica. Sequencing indicated that Rny1, Rny3, and Ray1 possessed intact open reading frames (ORFs), whereas Rny2, Rny4, and Ray2 harbored in-frame stop codons. All of the six genes possessed a similar primary structure to known HMW-GS, while showing some unique characteristics. Their coding regions were significantly shorter than Glu-1 genes in wheat. The amino acid sequences revealed that all of the six genes were intermediate towards the y-type. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the HMW-GSs from species with St, StY, or StH genome(s) clustered in an independent clade, varying from the typical x- and y-type clusters. Thus, the Glu-1 locus in R. nakaii and R. alashanica is a very primitive glutenin locus across evolution. The six genes were phylogenetically split into two groups clustered to different clades, respectively, each of the two clades included the HMW-GSs from species with St (diploid and tetraploid species), StY, and StH genomes. Hence, it is concluded that the six Roegneria HMW-GS genes are from two St genomes undergoing slight differentiation.
The OsCYP19-4 Gene Is Expressed as Multiple Alternatively Spliced Transcripts Encoding Isoforms with Distinct Cellular Localizations and PPIase Activities under Cold Stress
Authors: Lee Areum , Lee Sang , Jung Won , Park Hyun , Lim Bo , Kim Hyun-Soon , Ahn Jun , Cho Hye
Published: July 2016

Alternative splicing (AS) is an important molecular mechanism by which single genes can generate multiple mRNA isoforms. We reported previously that, in Oryza sativa, the cyclophilin 19-4 (OsCYP19-4.1) transcript was significantly upregulated in response to cold stress, and that transgenic plants were cold tolerant. Here we show that, under cold stress, OsCYP19-4 produces eight transcript variants by intron retention and exon skipping, resulting in production of four distinct protein isoforms. The OsCYP19-4 AS isoforms exhibited different cellular localizations in the epidermal cells: in contrast to OsCYP19-4.1, the OsCYP19-4.2 and OsCYP19-4.3 proteins were primarily targeted to guard and subsidiary cells, whereas OsCYP19-4.5, which consists largely of an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) targeting signal, was co-localized with the RFP-BiP marker in the ER. In OsCYP19-4.2, the key residues of the PPIase domain are altered; consistent with this, recombinant OsCYP19-4.2 had significantly lower PPIase activity than OsCYP19-4.1 in vitro. Specific protein-protein interactions between OsCYP19-4.2/3 and AtRCN1 were verified in yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and bimolecular fluoresence complementation (BiFC assays), although the OsCYP19-4 isoforms could not bind each other. Based on these results, we propose that two OsCYP19-4 AS isoforms, OsCYP19-4.2 and OsCYP19-4.3, play roles linking auxin transport and cold stress via interactions with RCN1.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of 3,3′-Diindolylmethane in Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Kim Soo
Published: July 2016

Studies in humans have shown that 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), which is found in cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage and broccoli, is effective in the attenuation of gastrointestinal cancers. This review presents the latest findings on the use, targets, and modes of action of DIM for the treatment of human gastrointestinal cancers. DIM acts upon several cellular and molecular processes in gastrointestinal cancer cells, including apoptosis, autophagy, invasion, cell cycle regulation, metastasis, angiogenesis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, DIM increases the efficacy of other drugs or therapeutic chemicals when used in combinatorial treatment for gastrointestinal cancer. The studies to date offer strong evidence to support the use of DIM as an anticancer and therapeutic agent for gastrointestinal cancer. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the preventive and therapeutic properties of DIM in addition to its different perspective on the safety of DIM in clinical applications for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.
Effectiveness of Hypochlorous Acid to Reduce the Biofilms on Titanium Alloy Surfaces in Vitro
Authors: Chen Chun-Ju , Chen Chun-Cheng , Ding Shinn-Jyh
Published: July 2016

Chemotherapeutic agents have been used as an adjunct to mechanical debridement for peri-implantitis treatment. The present in vitro study evaluated and compared the effectiveness of hypochlorous acid (HOCl), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and chlorhexidine (CHX) at eliminating Gram-negative (E. coli and P. gingivalis) and Gram-positive (E. faecalis and S. sanguinis) bacteria. The effect of irrigating volume and exposure time on the antimicrobial efficacy of HOCl was evaluated, and a durability analysis was completed. Live/dead staining, morphology observation, alamarBlue assay, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) detection were examined on grit-blasted and biofilm-contaminated titanium alloy discs after treatment with the three chemotherapeutic agents. The results indicated that HOCl exhibited better antibacterial efficacy with increasing irrigating volumes. HOCl achieved greater antibacterial efficacy as treatment time was increased. A decrease in antimicrobial effectiveness was observed when HOCl was unsealed and left in contact with the air. All the irrigants showed antibacterial activity and killed the majority of bacteria on the titanium alloy surfaces of biofilm-contaminated implants. Moreover, HOCl significantly lowered the LPS concentration of P. gingivalis when compared with NaOCl and CHX. Thus, a HOCl antiseptic may be effective for cleaning biofilm-contaminated implant surfaces.
Senescence in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Functional Changes and Implications in Stem Cell-Based Therapy
Authors: Turinetto Valentina , Vitale Emanuela , Giachino Claudia
Published: July 2016

Regenerative medicine is extensively interested in developing cell therapies using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with applications to several aging-associated diseases. For successful therapies, a substantial number of cells are needed, requiring extensive ex vivo cell expansion. However, MSC proliferation is limited and it is quite likely that long-term culture evokes continuous changes in MSCs. Therefore, a substantial proportion of cells may undergo senescence. In the present review, we will first present the phenotypic characterization of senescent human MSCs (hMSCs) and their possible consequent functional alterations. The accumulation of oxidative stress and dysregulation of key differentiation regulatory factors determine decreased differentiation potential of senescent hMSCs. Senescent hMSCs also show a marked impairment in their migratory and homing ability. Finally, many factors present in the secretome of senescent hMSCs are able to exacerbate the inflammatory response at a systemic level, decreasing the immune modulation activity of hMSCs and promoting either proliferation or migration of cancer cells. Considering the deleterious effects that these changes could evoke, it would appear of primary importance to monitor the occurrence of senescent phenotype in clinically expanded hMSCs and to evaluate possible ways to prevent in vitro MSC senescence. An updated critical presentation of the possible strategies for in vitro senescence monitoring and prevention constitutes the second part of this review. Understanding the mechanisms that drive toward hMSC growth arrest and evaluating how to counteract these for preserving a functional stem cell pool is of fundamental importance for the development of efficient cell-based therapeutic approaches.
Effect of Transition Metal Substitution on the Structure and Properties of a Clathrate-Like Compound Eu7Cu44As23
Authors: Plokhikh Igor , Charkin Dmitri , Verchenko Valeriy , Ignatyev Ivan , Kazakov Sergey , Sobolev Alexey , Presniakov Igor , Tsirlin Alexander , Shevelkov Andrei
Published: July 2016

A series of substitutional solid solutions—Eu7Cu44−xTxAs23 (T = Fe, Co, Ni)—based on a recently discovered clathrate-like compound (Eu7Cu44As23) were synthesized from the elements at 800 °C. Almost up to 50% of Cu can be substituted by Ni, resulting in a linear decrease of the cubic unit cell parameter from a = 16.6707(1) Å for the ternary compound to a = 16.3719(1) Å for the sample with the nominal composition Eu7Cu24Ni20As23. In contrast, Co and Fe can only substitute less than 20% of Cu. Crystal structures of six samples of different composition were refined from powder diffraction data. Despite very small differences in scattering powers of Cu, Ni, Co, and Fe, we were able to propose a reasonable model of dopant distribution over copper sites based on the trends in interatomic distances as well as on Mössbauer spectra for the iron-substituted compound Eu7Cu36Fe8As23. Ni doping increases the Curie temperature to 25 K with respect to the parent compound, which is ferromagnetically ordered below 17.5 K, whereas Fe doping suppresses the ferromagnetic ordering in the Eu sublattice.
Novel Mg-Doped SrMoO3 Perovskites Designed as Anode Materials for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Cascos Vanessa , Alonso José , Fernández-Díaz María
Published: July 2016

SrMo1−xMxO3−δ (M = Fe and Cr, x = 0.1 and 0.2) oxides have been recently described as excellent anode materials for solid oxide fuel cells at intermediate temperatures (IT-SOFC) with LSGM as the electrolyte. In this work, we have improved their properties by doping with aliovalent Mg ions at the B-site of the parent SrMoO3 perovskite. SrMo1−xMgxO3−δ (x = 0.1, 0.2) oxides have been prepared, characterized and tested as anode materials in single solid-oxide fuel cells, yielding output powers near 900 mW/cm−2 at 850 °C using pure H2 as fuel. We have studied its crystal structure with an “in situ” neutron power diffraction (NPD) experiment at temperatures as high as 800 °C, emulating the working conditions of an SOFC. Adequately high oxygen deficiencies, observed by NPD, together with elevated disk-shaped anisotropic displacement factors suggest a high ionic conductivity at the working temperatures. Furthermore, thermal expansion measurements, chemical compatibility with the LSGM electrolyte, electronic conductivity and reversibility upon cycling in oxidizing-reducing atmospheres have been carried out to find out the correlation between the excellent performance as an anode and the structural features.
In Situ Thermal Generation of Silver Nanoparticles in 3D Printed Polymeric Structures
Authors: Fantino Erika , Chiappone Annalisa , Calignano Flaviana , Fontana Marco , Pirri Fabrizio , Roppolo Ignazio
Published: July 2016

Polymer nanocomposites have always attracted the interest of researchers and industry because of their potential combination of properties from both the nanofillers and the hosting matrix. Gathering nanomaterials and 3D printing could offer clear advantages and numerous new opportunities in several application fields. Embedding nanofillers in a polymeric matrix could improve the final material properties but usually the printing process gets more difficult. Considering this drawback, in this paper we propose a method to obtain polymer nanocomposites by in situ generation of nanoparticles after the printing process. 3D structures were fabricated through a Digital Light Processing (DLP) system by disolving metal salts in the starting liquid formulation. The 3D fabrication is followed by a thermal treatment in order to induce in situ generation of metal nanoparticles (NPs) in the polymer matrix. Comprehensive studies were systematically performed on the thermo-mechanical characteristics, morphology and electrical properties of the 3D printed nanocomposites.
Microscale Simulation on Mechanical Properties of Al/PTFE Composite Based on Real Microstructures
Authors: Ge Chao , Dong Yongxiang , Maimaitituersun Wubuliaisan
Published: July 2016

A novel numerical method at the microscale for studying the mechanical behavior of an aluminum-particle-reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene (Al/PTFE) composite is proposed and validated experimentally in this paper. Two types of 2D representative volume elements (RVEs), real microstructure-based and simulated microstructures, are established by following a series of image processing procedures and on a statistical basis considering the geometry and the distribution of particles and microvoids, respectively. Moreover, 3D finite element modelling based on the same statistical information as the 2D simulated microstructure models is conducted to show the efficiency and effectiveness of the 2D models. The results of all simulations and experiments indicate that real microstructure-based models and simulated microstructure models are efficient methods to predict elastic and plastic constants of particle-reinforced composites.
Spectroscopic Study of Plasma Polymerized a-C:H Films Deposited by a Dielectric Barrier Discharge
Authors: Chandrashekaraiah Thejaswini , Bogdanowicz Robert , Rühl Eckart , Danilov Vladimir , Meichsner Jürgen , Thierbach Steffen , Hippler Rainer
Published: July 2016

Plasma polymerized a-C:H thin films have been deposited on Si (100) and aluminum coated glass substrates by a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) operated at medium pressure using C2Hm/Ar (m = 2, 4, 6) gas mixtures. The deposited films were characterized by Fourier transform infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (FT-IRRAS), Raman spectroscopy, and ellipsometry. FT-IRRAS revealed the presence of sp3 and sp2 C–H stretching and C–H bending vibrations of bonds in the films. The presence of D and G bands was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Thin films obtained from C2H4/Ar and C2H6/Ar gas mixtures have ID/IG ratios of 0.45 and 0.3, respectively. The refractive indices were 2.8 and 3.1 for C2H4/Ar and C2H6/Ar films, respectively, at a photon energy of 2 eV.
Preparational Uncertainty Relations for N Continuous Variables
Authors: Kechrimparis Spiros , Weigert Stefan
Published: July 2016

A smooth function of the second moments of N continuous variables gives rise to an uncertainty relation if it is bounded from below. We present a method to systematically derive such bounds by generalizing an approach applied previously to a single continuous variable. New uncertainty relations are obtained for multi-partite systems that allow one to distinguish entangled from separable states. We also investigate the geometry of the “uncertainty region” in the N ( 2 N + 1 ) -dimensional space of moments. It is shown to be a convex set, and the points on its boundary are found to be in one-to-one correspondence with pure Gaussian states of minimal uncertainty. For a single degree of freedom, the boundary can be visualized as one sheet of a “Lorentz-invariant” hyperboloid in the three-dimensional space of second moments.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Herbal Hepatotoxicity: RUCAM and the Role of Novel Diagnostic Biomarkers Such as MicroRNAs
Authors: Teschke Rolf , Larrey Dominique , Melchart Dieter , Danan Gaby
Published: July 2016

Background: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with its focus on herbal use is popular and appreciated worldwide with increased tendency, although its therapeutic efficacy is poorly established for most herbal TCM products. Treatment was perceived as fairly safe but discussions emerged more recently as to whether herb induced liver injury (HILI) from herbal TCM is a major issue; Methods: To analyze clinical and case characteristics of HILI caused by herbal TCM, we undertook a selective literature search in the PubMed database with the search items Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, alone and combined with the terms herbal hepatotoxicity or herb induced liver injury; Results: HILI caused by herbal TCM is rare and similarly to drugs can be caused by an unpredictable idiosyncratic or a predictable intrinsic reaction. Clinical features of liver injury from herbal TCM products are variable, and specific diagnostic biomarkers such as microsomal epoxide hydrolase, pyrrole-protein adducts, metabolomics, and microRNAs are available for only a few TCM herbs. The diagnosis is ascertained if alternative causes are validly excluded and causality levels of probable or highly probable are achieved applying the liver specific RUCAM (Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method) as the most commonly used diagnostic tool worldwide. Case evaluation may be confounded by inappropriate or lacking causality assessment, poor herbal product quality, insufficiently documented cases, and failing to exclude alternative causes such as infections by hepatotropic viruses including hepatitis E virus infections; Conclusion: Suspected cases of liver injury from herbal TCM represent major challenges that deserve special clinical and regulatory attention to improve the quality of case evaluations and ascertain patients’ safety and benefit.
Locally-Actuated Graphene-Based Nano-Electro-Mechanical Switch
Authors: Sun Jian , Muruganathan Manoharan , Kanetake Nozomu , Mizuta Hiroshi
Published: July 2016

The graphene nano-electro-mechanical switches are promising components due to their outstanding switching performance. However, most of the reported devices suffered from a large actuation voltages, hindering them from the integration in the conventional complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) circuit. In this work, we demonstrated the graphene nano-electro-mechanical switches with the local actuation electrode via conventional nanofabrication techniques. Both cantilever-type and double-clamped beam switches were fabricated. These devices exhibited the sharp switching, reversible operation cycles, high on/off ratio, and a low actuation voltage of below 5 V, which were compatible with the CMOS circuit requirements.
Origin of Minerals and Elements in the Late Permian Coal Seams of the Shiping Mine, Sichuan, Southwestern China
Authors: Luo Yangbing , Zheng Mianping
Published: July 2016

Volcanic layers in coal seams in southwestern China coalfields have received much attention given their significance in coal geology studies and their potential economic value. In this study, the mineralogical and geochemical compositions of C19 and C25 coal seams were examined, and the following findings were obtained. (1) Clay minerals in sample C19-r are argillized, and sedimentary layering is not observed. The acicular idiomorphic crystals of apatite and the phenocrysts of Ti-augite coexisting with magnetite in roof sample C19-r are common minerals in basaltic rock. The rare earth elements (REE) distribution pattern of C19-r, which is characterized by positive Eu anomalies and M-REE enrichment, is the same as that of high-Ti basalt. The concentrations of Ti, V, Co, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Nb, Ta, Zr, and Hf in C19-r are closer to those of high-Ti basalt. In conclusion, roof sample C19-r consists of tuffaceous clay, probably with a high-Ti mafic magma source. (2) The geochemical characteristics of the C25 coals are same as those reported for coal affected by alkali volcanic ash, enrichment in Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, and REE, causing the C25 minable coal seams to have higher potential value. Such a vertical study of coals and host rocks could provide more information for coal-forming depositional environment analysis, for identification of volcanic eruption time and magma intrusion, and for facilitating stratigraphic subdivision and correlation.
Characterization and Prebiotic Effect of the Resistant Starch from Purple Sweet Potato
Authors: Zheng Yafeng , Wang Qi , Li Baoyu , Lin Liangmei , Tundis Rosa , Loizzo Monica , Zheng Baodong , Xiao Jianbo
Published: July 2016

Purple sweet potato starch is a potential resource for resistant starch production. The effects of heat-moisture treatment (HMT) and enzyme debranching combined heat-moisture treatment (EHMT) on the morphological, crystallinity and thermal properties of PSP starches were investigated. The results indicated that, after HMT or EHMT treatments, native starch granules with smooth surface was destroyed to form a more compact, irregular and sheet-like structure. The crystalline pattern was transformed from C-type to B-type with decreasing relative crystallinity. Due to stronger crystallites formed in modified starches, the swelling power and solubility of HMT and EHMT starch were decreased, while the transition temperatures and gelatinization enthalpy were significantly increased. In addition, HMT and EHMT exhibited greater effects on the proliferation of bifidobacteria compared with either glucose or high amylose maize starch.
Nanomaterials for Cardiac Myocyte Tissue Engineering
Authors: Amezcua Rodolfo , Shirolkar Ajay , Fraze Carolyn , Stout David
Published: July 2016

Since their synthesizing introduction to the research community, nanomaterials have infiltrated almost every corner of science and engineering. Over the last decade, one such field has begun to look at using nanomaterials for beneficial applications in tissue engineering, specifically, cardiac tissue engineering. During a myocardial infarction, part of the cardiac muscle, or myocardium, is deprived of blood. Therefore, the lack of oxygen destroys cardiomyocytes, leaving dead tissue and possibly resulting in the development of arrhythmia, ventricular remodeling, and eventual heart failure. Scarred cardiac muscle results in heart failure for millions of heart attack survivors worldwide. Modern cardiac tissue engineering research has developed nanomaterial applications to combat heart failure, preserve normal heart tissue, and grow healthy myocardium around the infarcted area. This review will discuss the recent progress of nanomaterials for cardiovascular tissue engineering applications through three main nanomaterial approaches: scaffold designs, patches, and injectable materials.
Enhancement in Mechanical and Shape Memory Properties for Liquid Crystalline Polyurethane Strengthened by Graphene Oxide
Authors: Li Yueting , Lian Huiqin , Hu Yanou , Chang Wei , Cui Xiuguo , Liu Yang
Published: July 2016

Conventional shape memory polymers suffer the drawbacks of low thermal stability, low strength, and low shape recovery speed. In this study, main-chain liquid crystalline polyurethane (LCPU) that contains polar groups was synthesized. Graphene oxide (GO)/LCPU composite was fabricated using the solution casting method. The tensile strength of GO/LCPU was 1.78 times that of neat LCPU. In addition, shape recovery speed was extensively improved. The average recovery rate of sample with 20 wt % GO loading was 9.2°/s, much faster than that of LCPU of 2.6°/s. The enhancement in mechanical property and shape memory behavior could be attributed to the structure of LCPU and GO, which enhanced the interfacial interactions between GO and LCPU.
Mothers and Spirits: Religious Identity, Alcohol, and Death
Authors: Cann Candi
Published: July 2016

Mothers and Spirits examines the intersection of women, alcohol, and death through a comparative analysis. Offering a brief history of the study of drinking, followed by a short analysis of drinking in European and Chinese cultures, Cann examines two religious texts central to the roles of women and alcohol in Chinese religious thought and Christianity. Finally, Cann utilizes the historical and textual background to contextualize her ethnographic study of women, alcohol, and death in Mexican Catholicism, Chinese religions, and American Southern Baptist Christianity. Cann argues that both alcohol and temperance are used as a way to forge, cement, and create gender identity, constructing alternate discourses of power and inclusivity.