bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth Perspectives of Healthcare in Central Mexico: An Application of Massey’s Critical Health Literacy Framework
Authors: Hoffman Steven , Rueda Heidi Adams , Beasley Lauren
Published: March 2019

Attention to health literacy is essential more now than ever given the recognition, attention, and resources being dedicated to addressing health disparities throughout the world. Unfortunately, health literacy research is scarce in many parts of the world, particularly among youth. Using focus group discussions with junior high school students (N = 98) in a rural town of Central Mexico, we sought to learn about their experiences utilizing healthcare services at a local health clinic. The themes that naturally emerged from focus group discussions aligned with Massey’s framework on critical health literacy among US youth, and included problems navigating the health system, embarrassment speaking to doctors about sensitive issues, and minimal importance being placed on preventative care. This suggests that Massey’s framework may be appropriate to use when seeking to understand and promote health literacy among youth in Mexico. Furthermore, the challenges faced by adolescent participants in this study suggest that additional research is needed to assess how youth in other areas of Mexico are faring in efforts to understand and access their new and evolving universal healthcare system.
Acetazolamide Therapy in Patients with Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wongboonsin Janewit , Thongprayoon Charat , Bathini Tarun , Ungprasert Patompong , Aeddula Narothama Reddy , Mao Michael A. , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: March 2019

Background and objectives: Fluid overload and central sleep apnea are highly prevalent in patients with heart failure (HF). We performed this meta-analysis to assess the effects of acetazolamide therapy on acid/base balance and apnea indexes. Methods: A literature search was conducted using EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Database from inception through 18 November 2017 to identify studies evaluating the use of acetazolamide in HF. Study results were analyzed using a random effects model. The protocol for this systematic review is registered with PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews; no. CRD42017065401). Results: Nine studies (three randomized controlled trials and six cohort studies) with a total of 229 HF patients were enrolled. After acetazolamide treatment, there were significant decreases in serum pH (mean difference (MD) of −0.04 (95% CI, −0.06 to −0.02)), pCO2 (MD of −2.06 mmHg (95% CI, −3.60 to −0.53 mmHg)), and serum bicarbonate levels (MD of −6.42 mmol/L (95% CI, −10.05 to −2.79 mmol/L)). When compared to a placebo, acetazolamide significantly increased natriuresis (standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.67 (95% CI, 0.08 to 1.27)), and decreased the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) (SMD of −1.06 (95% CI, −1.75 to −0.36)) and central apnea index (CAI) (SMD of −1.10 (95% CI, −1.80 to −0.40)). Egger’s regression asymmetry tests revealed no publication bias with p = 0.20, 0.75 and 0.59 for analysis of the changes in pH, pCO2, and serum bicarbonate levels with use of acetazolamide in HF patients. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates significant reduction in serum pH, increase in natriuresis, and improvements in apnea indexes with use of acetazolamide among HF patients.
Instrumented Indentation of Super-Insulating Silica Compacts
Authors: Benane Belynda , Meille Sylvain , Foray Geneviève , Yrieix Bernard , Olagnon Christian
Published: March 2019

Highly porous silica compacts for superinsulation were characterized by instrumented indentation. Samples showed a multi-scale stacking of silica particles with a total porous fraction of 90 vol %. The two main sources of silica available for the superinsulation market were considered: fumed silica and precipitated silica. The compacts processed with these two silica displayed different mechanical properties at a similar porosity fraction, thus leading to different usage properties, as the superinsulation market requires sufficient mechanical properties at the lowest density. The measurement of Young’s modulus and hardness was possible with spherical indentation, which is an efficient method for characterizing highly porous structures. Comparison of the mechanical parameters measured on silica compacts and silica aerogels available from the literature was made. Differences in mechanical properties between fumed and precipitated compacts were explained by structural organization.
Charge and Peptide Concentration as Determinants of the Hydrogel Internal Aqueous Environment
Authors: Elgersma Scott V. , Ha Michelle , Yang Jung-Lynn Jonathan , Michaelis Vladimir K. , Unsworth Larry D.
Published: March 2019

Self-assembling peptides are a promising class of biomaterials with desirable biocompatibility and versatility. In particular, the oligopeptide (RADA)4, consisting of arginine (R), alanine (A), and aspartic acid (D), self-assembles into nanofibers that develop into a three-dimensional hydrogel of up to 99.5% (w/v) water; yet, the organization of water within the hydrogel matrix is poorly understood. Importantly, peptide concentration and polarity are hypothesized to control the internal water structure. Using variable temperature deuterium solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (2H NMR) spectroscopy, we measured the amount of bound water in (RADA)4-based hydrogels, quantified as the non-frozen water content. To investigate how peptide polarity affects water structure, five lysine (K) moieties were appended to (RADA)4 to generate (RADA)4K5. Hydrogels at 1 and 5% total peptide concentration were prepared from a 75:25 (w/w) blend of (RADA)4:(RADA)4K5 and similarly analyzed by 2H NMR. Interestingly, at 5% peptide concentration, there was lower mobile water content in the lysinated versus the pristine (RADA)4 hydrogel. Regardless of the presence of lysine, the 5% peptide concentration had higher non-frozen water content at temperatures as low as 217 ± 1.0 K, suggesting that bound water increases with peptide concentration. The bound water, though non-frozen, may be strongly bound to the charged lysine moiety to appear as immobilized water. Further understanding of the factors controlling water structure within hydrogels is important for tuning the transport properties of bioactive solutes in the hydrogel matrix when designing for biomedical applications.
Progressive Failure Simulation of Notched Tensile Specimen for Triaxially-Braided Composites
Authors: Zhao Zhenqiang , Dang Haoyuan , Xing Jun , Li Xi , Zhang Chao , Binienda Wieslaw K. , Li Yulong
Published: March 2019

The mechanical characterization of textile composites is a challenging task, due to their nonuniform deformation and complicated failure phenomena. This article introduces a three-dimensional mesoscale finite element model to investigate the progressive damage behavior of a notched single-layer triaxially-braided composite subjected to axial tension. The damage initiation and propagation in fiber bundles are simulated using three-dimensional failure criteria and damage evolution law. A traction–separation law has been applied to predict the interfacial damage of fiber bundles. The proposed model is correlated and validated by the experimentally measured full field strain distributions and effective strength of the notched specimen. The progressive damage behavior of the fiber bundles is studied by examining the damage and stress contours at different loading stages. Parametric numerical studies are conducted to explore the role of modeling parameters and geometric characteristics on the internal damage behavior and global measured properties of the notched specimen. Moreover, the correlations of damage behavior, global stress–strain response, and the efficiency of the notched specimen are discussed in detail. The results of this paper deliver a throughout understanding of the damage behavior of braided composites and can help the specimen design of textile composites.
In Vitro Assessment of the Functional Dynamics of Titanium with Surface Coating of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles
Authors: de Lima Cavalcanti José Henrique , Matos Patrícia C. , Depes de Gouvêa Cresus Vinícius , Carvalho Waldimir , Calvo-Guirado José Luis , Aragoneses Juan Manuel , Pérez-Díaz Letícia , Gehrke Sergio Alexandre
Published: March 2019

Manipulation of implant surface characteristics constitutes a promising strategy for improving cell growth and tissue response on a variety of materials with different surface topographies. Mesenchymal progenitor cells with a capacity to respond to titanium surface stimuli and differentiate into osteoblasts were used to perform comparative tests between two different implant topographies, including their functional interaction with pre-osteoblasts directly seeded onto the implants. Functional analysis of nanostructured implant surfaces was performed by in vitro assay analysis. The machined surface of titanium implants (mach group) was used as a control and compared with a nanoparticle HA activated surface implant (nano group), developed by the deposition of pure crystalline hydroxyapatite. Cell culture on the nano group surface resulted in higher cell adhesion and cultured osteoblast viability compared with the mach group. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed a stable interaction, indicated by the presence of focal cell adhesion formation. These results together with positive mineralization assays showed the nano group to be an excellent scaffold for bone-implant integration.
Discussion of “Accurate and Efficient Explicit Approximations of the Colebrook Flow Friction Equation Based on the Wright ω-Function” by DejanBrkić; and Pavel Praks, Mathematics 2019, 7, 34; doi:10.3390/math7010034
Authors: Zeghadnia Lotfi , Achour Bachir , Robert Jean
Published: March 2019

The Colebrook-White equation is often used for calculation of the friction factor in turbulent regimes; it has succeeded in attracting a great deal of attention from researchers. The Colebrook–White equation is a complex equation where the computation of the friction factor is not direct, and there is a need for trial-error methods or graphical solutions; on the other hand, several researchers have attempted to alter the Colebrook-White equation by explicit formulas with the hope of achieving zero-percent (0%) maximum deviation, among them Dejan Brkić and Pavel Praks. The goal of this paper is to discuss the results proposed by the authors in their paper:” Accurate and Efficient Explicit Approximations of the Colebrook Flow Friction Equation Based on the Wright ω-Function” and to propose more accurate formulas.
A Coupled System of Fractional Difference Equations with Nonlocal Fractional Sum Boundary Conditions on the Discrete Half-Line
Authors: Soontharanon Jarunee , Chasreechai Saowaluck , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: March 2019

In this article, we propose a coupled system of fractional difference equations with nonlocal fractional sum boundary conditions on the discrete half-line and study its existence result by using Schauder’s fixed point theorem. An example is provided to illustrate the results.
Multi-Attribute Decision-Making Based on Preference Perspective with Interval Neutrosophic Sets in Venture Capital
Authors: Hong Yanran , Xu Dongsheng , Xiang Kaili , Qiao Han , Cui Xiangxiang , Xian Huaxiang
Published: March 2019

Fuzzy information in venture capital can be well expressed by neutrosophic numbers, and TODIM method is an effective tool for multi-attribute decision-making. The distance measure is an essential step in TODIM method. The keystone of this paper is to define several new distance measures, in particular the improved interval neutrosophic Euclidean distance, and these measures are applied in the TODIM method for multi-attribute decision-making. Firstly, the normalized generalized interval neutrosophic Hausdorff distance is defined and proved to be valid in this paper. Secondly, we define a weighted parameter interval neutrosophic distance and discuss whether different weight parameters affect the decision result based on TODIM method. Thirdly, considering the preference perspective of decision-makers in behavioral economics, we define the improved interval neutrosophic Euclidean distance with the known parameter of risk preference. Finally, an application example is given to compare the effects of different parameters on the result and discuss the feasibility of these two distance measures in TODIM method.
Synthetic Lethality in Lung Cancer—From the Perspective of Cancer Genomics
Authors: Shimomura Iwao , Yamamoto Yusuke , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: March 2019

Cancer is a genetic disease, and this concept is now widely exploited by both scientists and clinicians to develop new genotype-selective anticancer therapeutics. Although the quest of cancer genomics is in its dawn, recognition of the widespread applicability of genetic interactions with biological processes of tumorigenesis is propelling research throughout academic fields. Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death worldwide, with an estimated 1.6 million deaths each year. Despite the development of targeted therapies that inhibit oncogenic mutations of lung cancer cases, continued research into new therapeutic approaches is required for untreatable lung cancer patients, and the development of therapeutic modalities has proven elusive. The “synthetic lethal” approach holds the promise of delivering a therapeutic regimen that preferentially targets malignant cells while sparing normal cells. We highlight the potential challenges in synthetic lethal anticancer therapeutics that target untreatable genetic alterations in lung cancer. We also discuss both challenges and opportunities regarding the application of new synthetic lethal interactions in lung cancer.
Cholesterol and Oxidative Stress in U.S. Pregnant Women Exposed to Lead
Authors: Obeng-Gyasi Emmanuel
Published: March 2019

Lead exposure among pregnant U.S. women was examined via the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2016 data to examine its role in bad cholesterol and oxidative stress. Mean values of the clinical markers non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), a marker of oxidative stress, were explored. In four quartiles of lead exposure, clinical makers were compared. Binary logistic regression predicted the likelihood of elevated clinical markers in pregnant compared to non-pregnant women, while linear regression was used to examine associations between blood lead levels (BLL) and the clinical markers of interest. Mean non-HDL-c was statistically significantly more elevated in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Mean GGT levels were more statistically significantly elevated in the highest quartile of BLL exposure among pregnant women than in the lower quartiles. In binary logistic regression models, pregnant women were statistically significantly more likely to have elevated non-HDL-c, while in linear regression BLL was statistically significantly associated with GGT levels in pregnant women. Lead exposure in pregnant women is an issue of public health concern that must continue to be studied.
The Bacterial Phytoene Desaturase-Encoding Gene (CRTI) is an Efficient Selectable Marker for the Genetic Transformation of Eukaryotic Microalgae
Authors: Molina-Márquez Ana , Vila Marta , Vigara Javier , Borrero Ana , León Rosa
Published: March 2019

Genetic manipulation shows great promise to further boost the productivity of microalgae-based compounds. However, selection of microalgal transformants depends mainly on the use of antibiotics, which have raised concerns about their potential impacts on human health and the environment. We propose the use of a synthetic phytoene desaturase-encoding gene (CRTIop) as a selectable marker and the bleaching herbicide norflurazon as a selective agent for the genetic transformation of microalgae. Bacterial phytoene desaturase (CRTI), which, unlike plant and algae phytoene desaturase (PDS), is not sensitive to norflurazon, catalyzes the conversion of the colorless carotenoid phytoene into lycopene. Although the expression of CRTI has been described to increase the carotenoid content in plant cells, its use as a selectable marker has never been testedin algae or in plants. In this study, a version of the CRTI gene adapted to the codon usage of Chlamydomonas has been synthesized, and its suitability to be used as selectable marker has been shown. The microalgae were transformed by the glass bead agitation method and selected in the presence of norflurazon. Average transformation efficiencies of 550 colonies µg−1 DNA were obtained. All the transformants tested had incorporated the CRTIop gene in their genomes and were able to synthesize colored carotenoids.
Outbreak History, Biofilm Formation, and Preventive Measures for Control of Cronobacter sakazakii in Infant Formula and Infant Care Settings
Authors: Henry Monica , Fouladkhah Aliyar
Published: March 2019

Previously known as Enterobacter sakazakii from 1980 to 2007, Cronobacter sakazakii is an opportunistic bacterium that survives and persists in dry and low-moisture environments, such as powdered infant formula. Although C. sakazakii causes disease in all age groups, infections caused by this pathogen are particularly fatal in infants born premature and those younger than two months. The pathogen has been isolated from various environments such as powdered infant formula manufacturing facilities, healthcare settings, and domestic environments, increasing the chance of infection through cross-contamination. The current study discusses the outbreak history of C. sakazakii and the ability of the microorganism to produce biofilms on biotic and abiotic surfaces. The study further discusses the fate of the pathogen in low-moisture environments, articulates preventive measures for healthcare providers and nursing parents, and delineates interventions that could be utilized in infant formula manufacturing to minimize the risk of contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii.
Utilisation of Water-Washing Pre-Treated Phosphogypsum for Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Liu Yikai , Zhang Qinli , Chen Qiusong , Qi Chongchong , Su Zhu , Huang Zhaodong
Published: March 2019

Recycling phosphogypsum (PG) for cemented paste backfill (CPB) has been widely used at phosphate mines in China. However, the impurities in PG prolong the setting time and reduce the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), limiting the engineering application of PG. This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of treated PG (TPG) washed repeatedly using deionised water (DW) for CPB. A water-washing pre-experiment was first conducted to find the proportion with the least DW demand and the effects of water-washing on ordinary PG (OPG). Then, based on the PG:DW ratio obtained from the pre-experiment, the properties of the OPG-based CPB (OCPB) and TPG-based CPB (TCPB) were tested using slump tests, UCS tests, and microstructural analysis. The results show that (1) after 11 water-washings at the PG:DW ratio of 1:1.75, the pH of the supernatant (pH = 6.328) meets the requirements of Chinese standard GB 8978-1996. (2) Water-washing improves the particle gradation quality of PG and removes the soluble impurities adsorbed at the surface of PG crystals. (3) The initial slump values of TCPB are 0.19–1.15 cm higher than that of OCPB, furthermore, the diffusivity values of TCPB are better than the performance of OCPB, with 0.61–1.68 cm of superiority. (4) The UCS values of TCPB are up to 0.838 MPa, 1.953 MPa, and 2.531 MPa, after curing for 7, 14, and 28 days. These are 0.283 MPa, 0.823 MPa, and 0.881 MPa higher than that of OCPB, respectively. It can be concluded that water-washing pre-treatment greatly improves the workability and mechanical property of PG-based CPB. These results are of great value for creating a reliable and environmentally superior alternative for the recycling of PG and for safer mining production.
The First Total Synthesis of (±)-Methyl Salvianolate A Using a Convergent Strategy
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Liping , Peng Ying , Pang Yiying , Xiao Hesheng , Wang Xiaoji , Huang Shuangping
Published: March 2019

Herein, a convergent, practicable and first total synthesis of the natural product, (±)-methyl salvianolate A, is reported. The key features of the approach are the use of a Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction and the protection of multiple hydroxyls using silyl protecting groups. The employment of the readily removable silyl protecting groups allows the synthesis of (±)-methyl salvianolate A and its derivatives on a reasonably large scale.
The Role of Public Nutrition Research Organizations in the Construction, Implementation and Evaluation of Evidence-Based Nutrition Policy: Two National Experiences in Mexico
Authors: Rivera Dommarco Juan A. , González de Cosío Teresita , García-Chávez C. Gabriela , Colchero M. Arantxa
Published: March 2019

Malnutrition and poor diet are the largest risk factors responsible for the global burden of disease. Therefore, ending all forms of malnutrition by 2030 is a global priority. To achieve this goal, a key element is to design and implement nutrition policies based on the best available scientific evidence. The demand for evidence-based nutrition policies may originate directly from policymakers or through social actors. In both cases, the role of research institutions is to generate relevant evidence for public policy. The two key objects of analysis for the design of an effective policy are the nutrition conditions of the population and the policies and programs available, including the identification of delivery platforms and competencies required by personnel in charge of the provision of services (social response). In addition, systematic literature reviews about risk factors of malnutrition, as well as the efficacy and effectiveness of policy actions, lead to evidence-based policy recommendations. Given the multifactorial nature of malnutrition, the drivers and risk factors operate in several sectors (food and agriculture, health, education, and social development) and may be immediate, underlying or basic causes. This multilevel complexity should be considered when developing nutrition policy. In this article, we show two models for the evidence-based design of nutrition policies and programs that may be useful to academia and decision makers demonstrated by two examples of policy design, implementation and evaluation in Mexico.
Molecular Dynamics Study on the Deformation Behaviors of Nanostructures in the Demolding Process of Micro-Injection Molding
Authors: Weng Can , Yang Jin , Yang Dongjiao , Jiang Bingyan
Published: March 2019

Polymer parts with nanostructures have broad applications, possessing excellent optical, electrochemical, biological, and other functions. Injection molding technology is one of the main methods for mass production of polymer parts with various shapes and sizes. The demolding process is vital to the replication quality of molded parts with nanostructures. For this study, molecular dynamics simulations of polypropylene (PP), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and cycloolefin copolymer (COC) were conducted for the demolding process. The average velocity, density distribution, adhesion energy, and demolding resistance were introduced to analyze the deformation behaviors of polymer nanostructure from a nickel nano-cavity with an aspect ratio of 2:1. The shoulders of nanostructures were firstly separated from the nickel mold insert in the simulation. Under the external demolding force of 0.07 nN, PP and PMMA could be successfully demolded with some deformations, while COC could not be completely demolded due to the greater adhesion energy between COC and Ni. It was found that the maximum adhesion energy occurred in the separation process between the shoulder of the nanostructure and Ni and the huge adhesion energy was the main cause of demolding defects. The velocity difference of the whole polymer layer and polymer nanostructure was further analyzed to explain the nanostructure deformation. In order to improve the quality of demolding, the external force applied on polymers should be properly increased.
Solubility Enhancement of Atrazine by Complexation with Cyclosophoraose Isolated from Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii TA-1
Authors: Kim Yohan , Shinde Vijay Vilas , Jeong Daham , Choi Youngjin , Jung Seunho
Published: March 2019

Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii TA-1, a kind of soil bacteria, produces cyclosophoraoses (Cys). Cyclosophoraoses contain various ring sizes with degrees of polymerization ranging from 17 to 23. Atrazine is a hardly-soluble herbicide that contaminates soil and drinking water, and remains in soil for a long time. To remove this insoluble contaminant from aqueous solutions, we have enhanced the solubility of atrazine by complexation with Cys. The complex formation of Cys and atrazine was confirmed using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), rotating frame nuclear overhauser spectroscopy (ROESY), and molecular modeling studies. The aqueous solubility of atrazine was enhanced 3.69-fold according to the added concentrations (20 mM) of Cys, compared to the 1.78-fold enhancements by β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Cyclosophoraoses as an excellent solubility enhancer with long glucose chains that can effectively capture insoluble materials showed a potential application of microbial polysaccharides in the removal of hazardous hardly-soluble materials from aqueous solutions in the fields of biological and environmental industry.
Enhancement of the Mechanical Properties of Polyimide Film by Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Choi Ju-Young , Jin Seung-Won , Kim Dong-Min , Song In-Ho , Nam Kyeong-Nam , Park Hyeong-Joo , Chung Chan-Moon
Published: March 2019

Polyimide films have conventionally been prepared by thermal imidization of poly(amic acid)s (PAAs). Here we report that the improvement of tensile strength while increasing (or maintaining) film flexibility of polyimide films was accomplished by simple microwave (MW) irradiation of the PAAs. This improvement in mechanical properties can be attributed to the increase in molecular weight of the polyimides by MW irradiation. Our results show that the mechanical properties of polyimide films can be improved by MW irradiation, which is a green approach that requires relatively low MW power, very short irradiation time, and no incorporation of any additional inorganic substance.
Vegetable Tannin as a Sustainable UV Stabilizer for Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Oliviero Maria , Stanzione Mariamelia , D’Auria Marco , Sorrentino Luigi , Iannace Salvatore , Verdolotti Letizia
Published: March 2019

A vegetable tannin, a flavonoid-type natural polyphenolic compound, was used to promote the stabilization of polyurethane foams against UV radiation. Several polyurethane foams were synthesized by using an isocyanate, and a mixture of ethoxylated cocoalkyl amine and vegetable tannin. The content of vegetable tannin was varied from 0 to 40 wt %. The effects of tannin and water (used as a blowing agent) on the foaming kinetics and cellular morphology of foams were investigated. Samples were subjected to accelerated weathering under UV radiation for 3 to 24 h, and FTIR and DMA analyses were conducted to assess the performance change. The former analysis revealed a strong inhibiting effect of tannin on urethane linkage degradation during the UV treatment. The mechanical properties were significantly affected by the addition of tannin. The capability of the foams to withstand UV radiation was dependent on the amount of tannin. At tannin contents higher than 20%, the decrease in mechanical properties under UV irradiation was almost avoided.
New Poly(lactide-urethane-isocyanurate) Foams Based on Bio-Polylactide Waste
Authors: Paciorek-Sadowska Joanna , Borowicz Marcin , Isbrandt Marek
Published: March 2019

The article presents the results of research on the synthesis of a new eco-polyol based on polylactide (PLA) waste and its use for the production of rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (RPU/PIR) foams. The obtained recycling-based polyol was subjected to analytical, physicochemical and spectroscopic tests (FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR) to confirm its suitability for the synthesis of polyurethane materials. Then, it was used to partially replace petrochemical polyol in polyurethane formulation. The obtained RPU/PIR foams were characterized by lower apparent density, brittleness, and water absorption. In addition, foams modified by eco-polyol had higher flame retardancy, as compared to reference foam. The results of the research show that the use of PLA polyol based on plastic waste may be an alternative to petrochemical polyols. This research matches with the current trends of sustainable development and green chemistry.
Child Nutritional Status—Alternative Metrics to Body Mass Index
Authors: Rush E. , Young L. , Cairncross C.
Published: March 2019

Background: For children, body mass index, adjusted for age and gender is the globally acceptedmeasure of relative growth and risk of over and under-nutrition [...]
Sweet Taste Perception in Pacific and NZ European Women is Associated with Dietary Intake and Eating Behaviour
Authors: Kindleysides Sophie , Kruger Rozanne , Corbin Marine , Richter Marilize , Douwes Jeroen , Breier Bernhard H.
Published: March 2019

Background: Taste perception may influence long-term dietary preferences, potentiallycontributing to the development of obesity [...]
Immediate and Longer-Term Effects of An Intensive Adolescent Cooking Intervention on Mental Well-Being and Cooking Self-Efficacy, Attitudes and Involvement
Authors: Kuroko Sarahmarie , Black Katherine , Chryssidis Themis , Finigan Rosie , Hann Callum , Haszard Jill , Jackson Rosalie , Mahn Katherine , Robinson Caleb , Thomson Carla , Toldi Olivia , Skidmore Paula
Published: March 2019

Background: Cooking more frequently is associated with a healthier diet. However, reporteddecreases in adolescents’ cooking opportunities may contribute [...]
Risk Factors for Prediabetes in Auckland Primary School Children
Authors: Lawgun D. , Conlon C.A. , Beck K.L. , Gammon C.S. , Hurst P.R. von
Published: March 2019

Background: The incidence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing inchildren around the world [...]
For the Love of Dogs: Finding Compassion in a Time of Famine in Pali Buddhist Stories
Authors: Granoff Phyllis
Published: March 2019

This paper focuses on stories from the 13th century Rasavāhinī in which feeding a starving dog is described as an act of great merit, equal even to the care of a monk or the Buddha. It begins with a reevaluation of passages from Buddhist texts that have been taken by scholars as evidence of pan- Buddhist concern for taking care of animals. It argues that they have been over-read and that the Rasavāhinī stories are distinctive. The setting in which these acts occur, a catastrophic famine, helps us to understand the transformation of the despised dog into an object of compassion. In such dire circumstances, when humans themselves behave like animals, compassion for a starving dog is both a new recognition of a fundamental shared kinship between human and animal and a gesture of recovering lost humanity.
Women’s Experiences of Utilizing Religious and Spiritual Beliefs as Coping Resources After Miscarriage
Authors: Kalu Felicity Agwu
Published: March 2019

Religious and spiritual beliefs enable some bereaved women to cope better with the devastating effects of the loss of a baby through miscarriage. The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of women’s utilization of religious and spiritual beliefs as coping resources after miscarriage. Heideggerian interpretive phenomenological approach guided the study. Data were collected using audio-recorded, semi-structured interviews with 10 women and analyzed thematically using the method developed by van Manen. Data analysis revealed three themes: (a) feelings of grief (b) finding meaning in loss and the purpose of life and (c) religious and spiritual beliefs as coping resources. Religious and spiritual beliefs play a major role in the lives of many individuals, and act as coping resources for many women who have experienced a miscarriage. Bereavement care providers’ understanding of religious and spiritual values of women who have experienced a miscarriage is crucial to meeting their spiritual care needs.
History and Myth: Mahāmudrā Lineage Accounts in the 12th-Century Xixia Buddhist Literature
Authors: Zhang Linghui
Published: March 2019

Mahāmudrā—an Indo-Tibetan phenomenon of Buddhist spirituality—constitutes in its systematic presentation a path that maps out the mystical quest for direct experience of ultimate reality. Despite the post-15th century bKa’-brgyud attempts at a codified Mahāmudrā genealogy, the early Tibetan sources speak little with regards to how the different Indian Mahāmudrā threads made their way over the Himalayas. To fill this gap, the article investigates, via philological and historical approaches, the lineage accounts in the 12th-century Xixia Mahāmudrā materials against the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist landscape. Three transmission lines are detected. Among them, two lines are attested by later Tibetan historiographical accounts about Mahāmudrā, and thus belong to an Indo-Tibetan continuum of the constructed Buddhist yogic past based upon historical realities—at least as understood by Tibetans of the time. The third one is more of a collage patching together different claims to spiritual legacy and religious authority—be they historically based or introspectively projected. Not only does the Mahāmudrā topography, jointly fueled by these three transmissions, reveal the Xixia recognition and imagination of the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist legacies, it also captures the complexities of the multi-faceted picture of Mahāmudrā on its way over the Himalayas during the 11th/12th century.
Between Utopia and Dystopia: Sectarianization through Revolution and War in Syrian Refugee Narratives
Authors: Løland Ingrid
Published: March 2019

Whereas much recent research has tried to understand the role of sectarianism in the Syrian conflict, few studies address the issue from a bottom-up viewpoint as seen from people’s everyday and lived experiences. This article seeks to access trajectories of sectarian identity formations through Syrian refugee narratives, articulated in stories that evolve around the revolution and the emerging civil war. It questions how the sectarian debate is experienced and reflected upon from refugees’ micro-narrative perspectives and the ways in which these experiences correspond to politicized frames operating on a macro-level. By taking the concept of ‘sectarianism’ as a theoretical vantage point, the study argues for a dynamic identity approach when attempting to understand complex processes of contested and contesting identities. Moreover, it suggests that by replacing the concept of sectarianism with ‘sectarianization’, we may provide a more nuanced understanding of processes in which religious identities are discursively constructed and mobilized in conflicts such as the Syrian one. The qualitative analysis of this study is based on in-depth narrative interviews with a multi-religious Syrian refugee population residing in Norway. Divided into four narrative clusters, their stories deal with hope, fear, victimization as well as hate and distrust. Through the extremities of revolution and war, each of these clusters reveal particular memories, moments and experiences that in various ways have informed and shaped issues of identity and perceptions of the ‘religious other’. Taken together, their stories expose a valuable juncture through which the complexities surrounding religion, identity and conflict can be further studied.
Mapping Pure Mangrove Patches in Small Corridors and Sandbanks Using Airborne Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Liu Cheng-Chien , Hsu Tsai-Wen , Wen Hui-Lin , Wang Kung-Hwa
Published: March 2019

Taijiang National Park (TNP) of Taiwan is the northernmost geographical position of mangrove habitats in the Northern Hemisphere. Instead of occupying a vast region with a single species, the mangroves in TNP are usually mingled with other plants in a narrow corridor along the water or in groups on a small sandbank. The multi-spectral images acquired from the spaceborne platforms are therefore limited in mapping the abundance and distribution of the mangrove species in TNP. We report the work of mapping pure mangrove patches in small corridors and sandbanks in TNP using airborne Compact Airborne Spectrographic Imager (CASI) hyperspectral imagery. Bu considering the similarity of spectral reflectance among three species of mangrove and other plants, we followed the concept of supervised classification to select a few training areas with known mangrove trees, where the training areas are determined from the detailed map of mangrove distribution derived from the field investigation. The Hourglass hyperspectral analysis technique was employed to identify the endmembers of pure mangrove in the training areas. The results are consistent with the current distribution of mangrove trees, and the remarkable feature of a “mangrove desert” highlights a fact that biodiversity can be easily and quickly destroyed if no protection is provided. Some remnant patches located by this research are very important to the management of mangrove trees.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of WO3·0.33H2O Nanorod Bundles as a Highly Sensitive Cyclohexene Sensor
Authors: Liu Xiaofei , Su Xintai , Yang Chao , Ma Kongjun
Published: March 2019

In this paper, WO3·0.33H2O nanorods were prepared through a simple hydrothermal method using p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) as an auxiliary reagent. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that the products with PABA addition were orthorhombic WO3·0.33H2O, which were mainly composed of nanorods with different crystal planes. The sensing performance of WO3·0.33H2O nanorod bundles prepared by the addition of PABA (100 ppm cyclohexene, Ra/Rg = 50.6) was found to be better than the WO3 synthesized without PABA (100 ppm cyclohexene, Ra/Rg = 1.3) for the detection of cyclohexene. The new synthesis route and sensing characteristics of as-synthesized WO3·0.33H2O nanorods revealed a promising candidate for the preparation of the cost-effective gas sensors.
Multiple CH/π Interactions Maintain the Binding of Aflatoxin B1 in the Active Cavity of Human Cytochrome P450 1A2
Authors: Wu Jun , Zhu Sisi , Wu Yunbo , Jiang Tianqing , Wang Lingling , Jiang Jun , Wen Jikai , Deng Yiqun
Published: March 2019

Human cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) is one of the key CYPs that activate aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a notorious mycotoxin, into carcinogenic exo-8,9-epoxides (AFBO) in the liver. Although the structure of CYP1A2 is available, the mechanism of CYP1A2-specific binding to AFB1 has not been fully clarified. In this study, we used calculation biology to predict a model of CYP1A2 with AFB1, where Thr-124, Phe-125, Phe-226, and Phe-260 possibly participate in the specific binding. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed to construct mutants T124A, F125A, F226A, and F260A. Escherichia coli-expressed recombinant proteins T124A, F226A, and F260A had active structures, while F125A did not. This was evidenced by Fe2+∙Carbon monoxide (CO)-reduced difference spectra and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Mutant F125A was expressed in HEK293T cells. Steady kinetic assays showed that T124A had enhanced activity towards AFB1, while F125A, F226A, and F260A were significantly reduced in their ability to activate AFB1, implying that hydrogen bonds between Thr-124 and AFB1 were not important for substrate-specific binding, whereas Phe-125, Phe-226, and Phe-260 were essential for the process. The computation simulation and experimental results showed that the three key CH/π interactions between Phe-125, Phe-226, or Phe-260 and AFB1 collectively maintained the stable binding of AFB1 in the active cavity of CYP1A2.
Desenvolvimento do Módulo de Pre-processamento da ferramenta SentimentALL
Authors: Brito Parcilene Fernandes , Gomes Luan
Published: March 2019

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Os sistemas que utilizam em seu processo de análise a linguagem natural (por exemplo, sistemas que analisam comentários de sites, reviews de filmes, posts em redes sociais etc.) geralmente usam técnicas relacionadas ao Processamento de Linguagem Natural (PLN). Neste artigo, serão apresentadas as etapas de PLN utilizadas no desenvolvimento do Módulo de Pré-Processamento da Ferramenta SentimentALL, que tem como propósito realizar análises de textos que emitem opiniões sobre produtos. O módulo foi desenvolvido para ser usado em qualquer contexto, mas neste trabalho foi utilizado na análise dos comentários extraídos do site de turismo TripAdvisor. O módulo é composto das etapas de normalização, correção ortográfica, pos-tagging e identificação de expressões compostas. Para a sua implementação, foi utilizada a biblioteca NLTK, da linguagem de Programação Python.
A Review on the Pollination of Aroids with Bisexual Flowers
Authors: Díaz Jiménez Pedro , Hentrich Heiko , Aguilar-Rodríguez Pedro Adrián , Krömer Thorsten , Chartier Marion , MacSwiney G. M. Cristina , Gibernau Marc
Published: March 2019

This paper presents an exhaustive review of the current knowledge on pollination of Araceae genera with bisexual flowers. All available studies on floral morphology, flowering sequence, floral scent, floral thermogenesis, floral visitors, and pollinators were carefully examined, with emphasis on the species-rich genera Anthurium Schott, Monstera Adans., and Spathiphyllum Schott. Genera with bisexual flowers are among the early-diverging lineages in Araceae, but present adaptations in their floral ecology to a great variety of pollination vectors, such as bees, beetles, flies, and, unusually, wind. These clades have developed highly derived pollination systems, involving the use of floral scent as a reward. We conclude that floral scent chemistry plays a key role in the pollination biology of the plants and that, in some genera, reproductive isolation through variation in the emitted floral volatile compounds may have been the decisive factor in the speciation processes of sympatric species.
The LANCA three-component reaction to highly substituted β-ketoenamides – versatile intermediates for the synthesis of functionalized pyridine, pyrimidine, oxazole and quinoxaline derivatives
Authors: Lechel Tilman , Kumar Roopender , Bera Mrinal K , Zimmer Reinhold , Reissig Hans-Ulrich
Published: March 2019

The LANCA three-component reaction of lithiated alkoxyallenes LA, nitriles N and carboxylic acids CA leads to β-ketoenamides KE in good to excellent yields. The scope of this reaction is very broad and almost all types of nitriles and carboxylic acids have successfully been used. The alkoxy group introduced via the allene component is also variable and hence the subsequent transformation of this substituent into a hydroxy group can be performed under different conditions. Enantiopure nitriles or carboxylic acids can also be employed leading to chiral KE with high enantiopurity and dinitriles or dicarboxylic acids also lead to the expected bis-β-ketoenamides. β-Ketoenamides incorporate a unique combination of functional groups and hence a manifold of subsequent reactions to highly substituted heterocyclic compounds is possible. An intramolecular aldol-type condensation reaction efficiently furnishes pyridin-4-ols PY that can be further modified by palladium-catalyzed reactions, e.g., to specifically substituted furopyridine derivatives. Condensations of β-ketoenamides with ammonium salts or with hydroxylamine hydrochloride afford pyrimidines PM or pyrimidine N-oxides PO with a highly flexible substitution pattern in good yields. The functional groups of these heterocycles also allow a variety of subsequent reactions to various pyrimidine derivatives. On the other hand, acid-labile alkoxy substituents such as a 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethoxy group are required for the conversion of β-ketoenamides into 5-acetyl-substituted oxazoles OX, again compounds with high potential for subsequent functional group transformations. For acid labile β-ketoenamides bearing bulky substituents the acid treatment leads to acylamido-substituted 1,2-diketones DK that could be converted into quinoxalines QU. All classes of heterocycles accessed through the key β-ketoenamides show a unique substitution pattern – not easily accomplishable by alternative methods – and therefore many subsequent reactions are possible.
CONCESSION MODEL FOR FAIR DISTRIBUTION OF BENEFITS AND RISKS IN BUILD-OPERATE-TRANSFER ROAD PROJECTS
Authors: Yan Xue , Chong Heap-Yih , Zhou Jing , Li Qian
Published: March 2019

A fair distribution of benefits and risks is not only one of the key factors in deciding concession period but also an important prerequisite for good cooperation between the government and the private sector in a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) road project. Considering the psychological characteristic of decision makers’ fairness preference, this study innovatively introduces the inequity aversion theory into the concession model, which provides a novel perspective to investigate the distribution of benefits and risks. In the improved model, the decision makers’ investment utility involves their economic benefits as well as their disutility due to inequity. Furthermore, the equilibrium principle of benefits and risks in this model has changed to minimize the gap between the investment utility-risk ratios of the government and the private sector. Based on Monte Carlo simulation, this study verifies the application of the model to a BOT road project in China. The results show that the concession period with fairness preference can effectively narrow the gap between the investment utility-risk ratios of the government and the private sector, thus guaranteeing the fair distribution of benefits and risks in the BOT road project.
Height Dependence of the Penumbral Fine-scale Structure in the Inner Solar Atmosphere
Authors: Murabito Mariarita , Ermolli I. , Giorgi F. , Stangalini M. , Guglielmino S. L. , Jafarzadeh S. , Socas-Navarro H. , Romano P. , Zuccarello F.
Published: March 2019

We studied the physical parameters of the penumbra in a large and fully developed sunspot, one of the largest over the last two solar cycles, by using full-Stokes measurements taken at the photospheric Fe i 617.3 nm and chromospheric Ca ii 854.2 nm lines with the Interferometric Bidimensional Spectrometer. Inverting measurements with the Non-LTE inversion COde (NICOLE) code, we obtained the three-dimensional structure of the magnetic field in the penumbra from the bottom of the photosphere up to the middle chromosphere. We analyzed the azimuthal and vertical gradient of the magnetic field strength and inclination. Our results provide new insights on the properties of the penumbral magnetic fields in the chromosphere at atmospheric heights unexplored in previous studies. We found signatures of the small-scale spine and intraspine structure of both the magnetic field strength and inclination at all investigated atmospheric heights. In particular, we report typical peak-to-peak variations of the field strength and inclination of ≈300 G and ≈20°, respectively, in the photosphere, and of ≈200 G and ≈10° in the chromosphere. In addition, we estimated the vertical gradient of the magnetic field strength in the studied penumbra: we find a value of ≈0.3 G km−1 between the photosphere and the middle chromosphere. Interestingly, the photospheric magnetic field gradient changes sign from negative in the inner to positive in the outer penumbra.