bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Lagged Diffusivity Method for the Solution of Nonlinear Finite Difference Systems
Authors: Mezzadri Francesco , Galligani Emanuele
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we extend the analysis of the Lagged Diffusivity Method for nonlinear, non-steady reaction-convection-diffusion equations. In particular, we describe how the method can be used to solve the systems arising from different discretization schemes, recalling some results on the convergence of the method itself. Moreover, we also analyze the behavior of the method in case of problems presenting boundary layers or blow-up solutions.
Efficient Algorithm for a k-out-of-N System Reliability Modeling-Case Study: Pitot Sensors System for Aircraft Velocity
Authors: Ezzeddine Wajih , Schutz Jérémie , Rezg Nidhal
Published: August 2017

The k-out-of-N system is widely applied in several industrial systems. This structure is a part of fault-tolerant systems for which both parallel and series systems are special cases. Because of the importance of industrial systems reliability determination for production and maintenance management purposes, a number of techniques and methods are incorporated to formulate and estimate its analytic expression. In this paper, an algorithm is put forward for a k-out-of-N system with identical components under information about the influence factors that affect the system efficiency. The developed approach is applied in the case of the Pitot sensors system. However, the algorithm application could be generalized for any device which during a mission is subject to environmental and operational factors that affect its degradation process.
Comparison of Basic Notch Filters for Semiconductor Optical Amplifier Pattern Effect Mitigation
Authors: Rizou Zoe , Zoiros Kyriakos , Hatziefremidis Antonios
Published: August 2017

We conduct a thorough comparison of two basic notch filters employed to mitigate the pattern effect that manifests when semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) serve linear amplification purposes. The filters are implemented using as the building architecture the optical delay interferometer (ODI) and the microring resonator (MRR). We formulate and follow a rational procedure, which involves identifying and applying the appropriate conditions for the filters’ spectral response slope related to the SOA pattern effect suppression mechanism. We thus extract the values of the free spectral range and detuning of each filter, which allow one to equivocally realize the pursued comparison. We define suitable performance metrics and obtain simulation results for each filter. The quantitative comparison reveals that most employed metrics are better with the MRR than with the ODI. Although the difference in performance is small, it is sufficient to justify considering also using the MRR for the intended purpose. Finally, we concisely discuss practical implementation issues of these notch filters and further make a qualitative comparison between them in terms of their inherent advantages and disadvantages. This discussion reveals that each scheme has distinct features that render it appropriate for supporting SOA direct signal amplification applications with a suppressed pattern effect.
Microfluidic Adaptation of Density-Gradient Centrifugation for Isolation of Particles and Cells
Authors: Sun Yuxi , Sethu Palaniappan
Published: August 2017

Density-gradient centrifugation is a label-free approach that has been extensively used for cell separations. Though elegant, this process is time-consuming (>30 min), subjects cells to high levels of stress (>350 g) and relies on user skill to enable fractionation of cells that layer as a narrow band between the density-gradient medium and platelet-rich plasma. We hypothesized that microfluidic adaptation of this technique could transform this process into a rapid fractionation approach where samples are separated in a continuous fashion while being exposed to lower levels of stress (<100 g) for shorter durations of time (<3 min). To demonstrate proof-of-concept, we designed a microfluidic density-gradient centrifugation device and constructed a setup to introduce samples and medium like Ficoll in a continuous, pump-less fashion where cells and particles can be exposed to centrifugal force and separated via different outlets. Proof-of-concept studies using binary mixtures of low-density polystyrene beads (1.02 g/cm3) and high-density silicon dioxide beads (2.2 g/cm3) with Ficoll–Paque (1.06 g/cm3) show that separation is indeed feasible with >99% separation efficiency suggesting that this approach can be further adapted for separation of cells.
Thermal-Sprayed Coatings on Bushing and Sleeve-Pipe Surfaces in Continuous Galvanizing Sinking Roller Production Line Applications
Authors: Zhang Guangwei , Li Deyuan , Zhang Ning , Zhang Nannan , Duan Sihua
Published: August 2017

This paper describes thermal spray techniques for making hard coatings on bushing and sleeve component surfaces. Specifically, plasma-arc welding was used to produce 5-mm thick Co-Cr alloy welding overlays on the bushing, while a high-velocity oxy-fuel spraying technique and laser re-melting technique were used to produce thinner coatings of Co-Cr-Ni+WC of about 1mm thickness on the sleeve-pipe counterparts. The surface-treated components were then submerged in liquid zinc to study the corrosive behaviour of the surface coating and substrate. Both the scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer analyses were used to study the microstructure and phase composition of both coatings and substrates prior to and after corrosion experiments. The results show that the microstructure of the bushing consists of γ-cobalt solid solution as well as the eutectic structure of γ-cobalt and carbides, which have good corrosive resistance against molten zinc. Meanwhile, the microstructure of the sleeve pipe consists of a Co-Cr solid solution with various forms of carbides, which displays the combined properties of toughness with good corrosive resistance to molten zinc.
Analysis of Low Temperature Preheating Effect Based on Battery Temperature-Rise Model
Authors: Wu Xiaogang , Chen Zhe , Wang Zhiyang
Published: August 2017

It is difficult to predict the heating time and power consumption associated with the self-heating process of lithium-ion batteries at low temperatures. A temperature-rise model considering the dynamic changes in battery temperature and state of charge is thus proposed. When this model is combined with the ampere-hour integral method, the quantitative relationship among the discharge rate, heating time, and power consumption, during the constant-current discharge process in an internally self-heating battery, is realized. Results show that the temperature-rise model can accurately reflect actual changes in battery temperature. The results indicate that the discharge rate and the heating time present an exponential decreasing trend that is similar to the discharge rate and the power consumption. When a 2 C discharge rate is selected, the battery temperature can rise from −10 °C to 5 °C in 280 s. In this scenario, power consumption of the heating process does not exceed 15% of the rated capacity. As the discharge rate gradually reduced, the heating time and power consumption of the heating process increase slowly. When the discharge rate is 1 C, the heating time is more than 1080 s and the power consumption approaches 30% of the rated capacity. The effect of discharge rate on the heating time and power consumption during the heating process is significantly enhanced when it is less than 1 C.
Techno-Economic Assessment of Heat Transfer Fluid Buffering for Thermal Energy Storage in the Solar Field of Parabolic Trough Solar Thermal Power Plants
Authors: Llamas Jorge , Bullejos David , Ruiz de Adana Manuel
Published: August 2017

Currently, operating parabolic trough (PT) solar thermal power plants, either solar-only or with thermal storage block, use the solar field as a heat transfer fluid (HTF) thermal storage system to provide extra thermal capacity when it is needed. This is done by circulating heat transfer fluid into the solar field piping in order to create a heat fluid buffer. In the same way, by oversizing the solar field, it can work as an alternative thermal energy storage (TES) system to the traditionally applied methods. This paper presents a solar field TES model for a standard solar field from a 50-MWe solar power plant. An oversized solar model is analyzed to increase the capacity storage system (HTF buffering). A mathematical model has been developed and different simulations have been carried out over a cycle of one year with six different solar multiples considered to represent the different oversized solar field configurations. Annual electricity generation and levelized cost of energy (LCOE) are calculated to find the solar multiple (SM) which makes the highest solar field thermal storage capacity possible within the minimum LCOE.
Demand Side Management in Nearly Zero Energy Buildings Using Heuristic Optimizations
Authors: Javaid Nadeem , Hussain Sardar , Ullah Ibrar , Noor Muhammad , Abdul Wadood , Almogren Ahmad , Alamri Atif
Published: August 2017

Today’s buildings are responsible for about 40% of total energy consumption and 30–40% of carbon emissions, which are key concerns for the sustainable development of any society. The excessive usage of grid energy raises sustainability issues in the face of global changes, such as climate change, population, economic growths, etc. Traditionally, the power systems that deliver this commodity are fuel operated and lead towards high carbon emissions and global warming. To overcome these issues, the recent concept of the nearly zero energy building (nZEB) has attracted numerous researchers and industry for the construction and management of the new generation buildings. In this regard, this paper proposes various demand side management (DSM) programs using the genetic algorithm (GA), teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO), the enhanced differential evolution (EDE) algorithm and the proposed enhanced differential teaching learning algorithm (EDTLA) to manage energy and comfort, while taking the human preferences into consideration. Power consumption patterns of shiftable home appliances are modified in response to the real-time price signal in order to get monetary benefits. To further improve the cost and user discomfort objectives along with reduced carbon emission, renewable energy sources (RESs) are also integrated into the microgrid (MG). The proposed model is implemented in a smart residential complex of multiple homes under a real-time pricing environment. We figure out two feasible regions: one for electricity cost and the other for user discomfort. The proposed model aims to deal with the stochastic nature of RESs while introducing the battery storage system (BSS). The main objectives of this paper include: (1) integration of RESs; (2) minimization of the electricity bill (cost) and discomfort; and (3) minimizing the peak to average ratio (PAR) and carbon emission. Additionally, we also analyze the tradeoff between two conflicting objectives, like electricity cost and user discomfort. Simulation results validate both the implemented and proposed techniques.
Stunting, Wasting and Underweight in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akombi Blessing , Agho Kingsley , Hall John , Wali Nidhi , Renzaho Andre , Merom Dafna
Published: August 2017

Introduction: Child undernutrition is a major public health problem. One third of all undernourished children globally reside in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The aim of this study was to systematically review studies to determine the factors associated with stunting, wasting and underweight in SSA and contribute to the existing body of evidence needed for the formulation of effective interventions. Methods: This systematic review was conducted using the 2015 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Five computerized bibliographic databases were searched: Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Embase. The included studies were rated using eight quality-appraisal criteria derived from the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist: sample size, sampling methodology, response rate, outcome measures, statistical analyses, control for confounding, study limitation, and ethical consideration. Results: Of a total of 2810 articles retrieved from the five databases, 49 studies met our inclusion criteria. The most consistent factors associated with childhood stunting, wasting and underweight in SSA were: low mother’s education, increasing child’s age, sex of child (male), wealth index/SES (poor household), prolonged duration of breastfeeding (>12 months), low birth weight, mother’s age (<20 years), source of drinking water (unimproved), low mother’s BMI (<18.5), birth size (small), diarrhoeal episode, low father’s education and place of residence (rural). Conclusions: The factors that predispose a child to undernutrition are multisectoral. To yield a sustainable improvement in child nutrition in SSA, a holistic multi-strategy community-based approach is needed that targets the factors associated with undernutrition, thereby setting the region on the path to achieving the WHO global nutrition target by 2025.
Investigating the Spatial Dimension of Food Access
Authors: Yenerall Jackie , You Wen , Hill Jennie
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this article is to investigate the sensitivity of food access models to a dataset’s spatial distribution and the empirical definition of food access, which contributes to understanding the mixed findings of previous studies. Data was collected in the Dan River Region in the United States using a telephone survey for individual-level variables (n = 784) and a store audit for the location of food retailers and grocery store quality. Spatial scanning statistics assessed the spatial distribution of obesity and detected a cluster of grocery stores overlapping with a cluster of obesity centered on a grocery store suggesting that living closer to a grocery store increased the likelihood of obesity. Logistic regression further examined this relationship while controlling for demographic and other food environment variables. Similar to the cluster analysis results, increased distance to a grocery store significantly decreased the likelihood of obesity in the urban subsample (average marginal effects, AME = −0.09, p-value = 0.02). However, controlling for grocery store quality nullified these results (AME = −0.12, p-value = 0.354). Our findings suggest that measuring grocery store accessibility as the distance to the nearest grocery store captures variability in the spatial distribution of the health outcome of interest that may not reflect a causal relationship between the food environment and health.
Effect of Smoking Behavior before and during Pregnancy on Selected Birth Outcomes among Singleton Full-Term Pregnancy: A Murmansk County Birth Registry Study
Authors: Kharkova Olga , Grjibovski Andrej , Krettek Alexandra , Nieboer Evert , Odland Jon
Published: August 2017

The aim of our study was to assess associations between smoking behavior before and during pregnancy and selected adverse birth outcomes. This study is based on the Murmansk County Birth Registry (MCBR). Our study includes women who delivered a singleton pregnancy after 37 weeks of gestation (N = 44,486). Smoking information was self-reported and assessed at the first antenatal visit during pregnancy. We adjusted for potential confounders using logistic regression. The highest proportion of infants with low values of birth weight, birth length, head circumference, ponderal index and of the Apgar score at 5 min was observed for women who smoked both before and during pregnancy. We observed a dose-response relationship between the number of cigarettes smoked per day during pregnancy and the odds of the aforementioned adverse birth outcomes; neither were there significant differences in their occurrences among non-smokers and those who smoked before but not during pregnancy. Moreover, smoking reduction during pregnancy relative to its pre-gestation level did not influence the odds of the adverse birth outcomes. Our findings emphasize a continued need for action against tobacco smoking during pregnancy.
Influence of Health Warnings on Beliefs about the Health Effects of Cigarette Smoking, in the Context of an Experimental Study in Four Asian Countries
Authors: Reid Jessica , Mutti-Packer Seema , Gupta Prakash , Li Qiang , Yuan Jiang , Nargis Nigar , Hussain A. , Hammond David
Published: August 2017

Cigarette package health warnings can be an important and low-cost means of communicating the health risks of smoking. We examined whether viewing health warnings in an experimental study influenced beliefs about the health effects of smoking, by conducting surveys with ~500 adult male smokers and ~500 male and female youth (age 16–18) in Beijing, China (n = 1070), Mumbai area, India (n = 1012), Dhaka, Bangladesh (n = 1018), and Republic of Korea (n = 1362). Each respondent was randomly assigned to view and rate pictorial health warnings for 2 of 15 different health effects, after which they reported beliefs about whether smoking caused 12 health effects. Respondents who viewed relevant health warnings (vs. other warnings) were significantly more likely to believe that smoking caused that particular health effect, for several health effects in each sample. Approximately three-quarters of respondents in China (Beijing), Bangladesh (Dhaka), and Korea (which had general, text-only warnings) thought that cigarette packages should display more health information, compared to approximately half of respondents in the Mumbai area, India (which had detailed pictorial warnings). Pictorial health warnings that convey the risk of specific health effects from smoking can increase beliefs and knowledge about the health consequences of smoking, particularly for health effects that are lesser-known.
Depressive Symptoms and Length of U.S. Residency Are Associated with Obesity among Low-Income Latina Mothers: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Lindsay Ana , Greaney Mary , Wallington Sherrie , Wright Julie , Hunt Anne
Published: August 2017

Latinos are the largest minority population group in the United States (U.S.), and low-income Latina women are at elevated risk of depression and obesity. Thus, the prevention of these two problems is a pressing public health concern in this population. Both depressive symptoms and obesity are modifiable factors that can be addressed by culturally relevant interventions. However, the association between depressive symptoms and obesity in Latina immigrant women is not well understood. Therefore, this cross-sectional study examined the association between depressive symptoms and obesity among Latina women of childbearing age (15–44). Participants (n = 147) were low-income, predominantly immigrant Latina mothers enrolled in the Latina Mothers′ Child Feeding Practices and Style Study. Women were eligible to participate if they self-identified as Latina; were enrolled in or eligible for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children program; had a child between ages two and five years; and were living in the U.S. for at least one year, and residing in Rhode Island. Enrolled participants completed a survey in their language of preference (English or Spanish) administered by bilingual interviewers. About one-third (34%) of participants were classified as having obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), 28.3% had elevated depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 16), and 70.1% were immigrants. Women with elevated depressive symptoms had increased odds of having obesity (odds ratio (OR) = 2.80, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24–6.33). Additionally, among immigrants, length of U.S. residency was associated with increased odds of obesity (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.09). Findings underscore the need for screening and culturally relevant interventions designed to address both depressive symptoms and obesity among low-income Latina women of childbearing age. Furthermore, findings highlight the importance of taking into account the length of residency in the U.S. when designing interventions targeting Latina immigrants.
Regulation of NKG2D-Dependent NK Cell Functions: The Yin and the Yang of Receptor Endocytosis
Authors: Molfetta Rosa , Quatrini Linda , Santoni Angela , Paolini Rossella
Published: August 2017

Natural-killer receptor group 2, member D (NKG2D) is a well characterized natural killer (NK) cell activating receptor that recognizes several ligands poorly expressed on healthy cells but up-regulated upon stressing stimuli in the context of cancer or viral infection. Although NKG2D ligands represent danger signals that render target cells more susceptible to NK cell lysis, accumulating evidence demonstrates that persistent exposure to ligand-expressing cells causes the decrease of NKG2D surface expression leading to a functional impairment of NKG2D-dependent NK cell functions. Upon ligand binding, NKG2D is internalized from the plasma membrane and sorted to lysosomes for degradation. However, receptor endocytosis is not only a mechanism of receptor clearance from the cell surface, but is also required for the proper activation of signalling events leading to the functional program of NK cells. This review is aimed at providing a summary of current literature relevant to the molecular mechanisms leading to NKG2D down-modulation with particular emphasis given to the role of NKG2D endocytosis in both receptor degradation and signal propagation. Examples of chronic ligand-induced down-regulation of NK cell activating receptors other than NKG2D, including natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs), DNAX accessory molecule-1 (DNAM1) and CD16, will be also discussed.
Intrapancreatic Parenchymal Injection of Cells as a Useful Tool for Allowing a Small Number of Proliferative Cells to Grow In Vivo
Authors: Sato Masahiro , Saitoh Issei , Murakami Tomoya , Kubota Naoko , Nakamura Shingo , Watanabe Satoshi , Inada Emi
Published: August 2017

In vivo inoculation of cells such as tumor cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS)/embryonic stem (ES) cells into immunocompromised mice has been considered as a powerful technique to evaluate their potential to proliferate or differentiate into various cell types originating from three germ cell layers. Subcutaneous grafting and grafting under the kidney capsule have been widely used for this purpose, but there are some demerits such as the requirement of a large number of tumor cells for inoculation and frequent failure of tumorigenesis. Therefore, grafting into other sites has been explored, including intratesticular or intramuscular grafting as well as grafting into the cochleae, liver, or salivary glands. In this study, we found that intrapancreatic parenchymal injection of cells is useful for allowing a small number of cells (~15 × 103 cells or ~30 cell clumps μL−1·site−1) to proliferate and sometimes differentiate into various types of cells. It requires only surgical exposure of the pancreas over the dorsal skin and subsequent injection of cells towards the pancreatic parenchyma under dissecting microscope-based observation using a mouthpiece-controlled glass micropipette. We now name this technology “intrapancreatic parenchymal cell transplantation (IPPCT)”, which will be useful, especially when only a small number of cells or colonies are available.
Various Mechanisms Involve the Nuclear Factor (Erythroid-Derived 2)-Like (NRF2) to Achieve Cytoprotection in Long-Term Cisplatin-Treated Urothelial Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Skowron Margaretha , Niegisch Günter , Albrecht Philipp , Van Koeveringe Gommert , Romano Andrea , Albers Peter , Schulz Wolfgang , Hoffmann Michèle
Published: August 2017

Therapeutic efficacy of cisplatin-based chemotherapy for advanced-stage urothelial carcinoma (UC) is limited by drug resistance. The nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) pathway is a major regulator of cytoprotective responses. We investigated its involvement in cisplatin resistance in long-term cisplatin treated UC cell lines (LTTs). Expression of NRF2 pathway components and targets was evaluated by qRT-PCR and western blotting in LTT sublines from four different parental cells. NRF2 transcriptional activity was determined by reporter assays and total glutathione (GSH) was quantified enzymatically. Effects of siRNA-mediated NRF2 knockdown on chemosensitivity were analysed by viability assays, γH2AX immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Increased expression of NRF2, its positive regulator p62/SQSTM1, and elevated NRF2 activity was observed in 3/4 LTTs, which correlated with KEAP1 expression. Expression of cytoprotective enzymes and GSH concentration were upregulated in some LTTs. NRF2 knockdown resulted in downregulation of cytoprotective enzymes and resensitised 3/4 LTTs towards cisplatin as demonstrated by reduced IC50 values, increased γH2AX foci formation, and elevated number of apoptotic cells. In conclusion, while LTT lines displayed diversity in NRF2 activation, NRF2 signalling contributed to cisplatin resistance in LTT lines, albeit in diverse ways. Accordingly, inhibition of NRF2 can be used to resensitise UC cells to cisplatin, but responses in patients may likewise be variable.
Three New Sesquiterpene Glycosides from the Rhizomes of Trillium tschonoskii
Authors: Yang Jie , Yang Yin-Jun , Sun Xin-Guang , Zhang Jie , Zhao Yang , Wang Bei , Ding Qian-Zhi , Guo Bao-Lin , Ma Bai-Ping
Published: August 2017

Three new sesquiterpene glycosides, possessing a rare aglycone with a sulfonyl between C-1 and C-15 positions, named 3-(3′E-7′R,8′-dihydroxy-4′,8′-dimethyl-3′-nonenyl)-2,5-dihydro-1,1-dioxo-thiophen 7′-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (1), 3-(3′E-7′R,8′-dihydroxy-4′,8′-dimethyl-3′-nonenyl)-2,5-dihydro-1,1-dioxo-thiophen 7′-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (2), and 3-(3′E-7′R,8′-dihydroxy-4′,8′-dimethyl-3′-nonenyl)-2,5-dihydro-1,1-dioxo-thiophen 7′-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-6′-O-acetyl-(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (3), respectively, were isolated from the rhizomes of Trillium tschonoskii. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic data, including HR-ESI-MS, IR, 1D and 2D NMR. The cytotoxic properties of the three compounds were investigated using human hepatic L02 cells.
Charge Transfer Effect on Raman and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy of Furfural Molecules
Authors: Wan Fu , Shi Haiyang , Chen Weigen , Gu Zhaoliang , Du Lingling , Wang Pinyi , Wang Jianxin , Huang Yingzhou
Published: August 2017

The detection of furfural in transformer oil through surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is one of the most promising online monitoring techniques in the process of transformer aging. In this work, the Raman of individual furfural molecules and SERS of furfural-Mx (M = Ag, Au, Cu) complexes are investigated through density functional theory (DFT). In the Raman spectrum of individual furfural molecules, the vibration mode of each Raman peak is figured out, and the deviation from experimental data is analyzed by surface charge distribution. In the SERS of furfural-Mx complexes, the influence of atom number and species on SERS chemical enhancement factors (EFs) are studied, and are further analyzed by charge transfer effect. Our studies strengthen the understanding of charge transfer effect in the SERS of furfural molecules, which is important in the online monitoring of the transformer aging process through SERS.
Psoralea corylifolia L. Seed Extract Attenuates Diabetic Nephropathy by Inhibiting Renal Fibrosis and Apoptosis in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Seo Eunhui , Kang Hwansu , Oh Yoon , Jun Hee-Sook
Published: August 2017

The Psoralea corylifolia L. seed (PCS) is a widely used herbal medicine, but its possible effect against diabetic nephropathy has not been studied. To investigate the anti-nephropathic effect of PCS extracts, we performed experiments using a diabetic mouse model and high glucose-treated mesangial cells. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice were orally administered PCS extract for 8 weeks (500 mg/kg/day). Increased creatinine clearance, urine volume, urine microalbumin, and mesangial expansion were observed in STZ-induced diabetic mice; these were significantly reduced by PCS extract administration. PCS extract significantly reduced fibrosis in the kidney tissue of diabetic mice as evidenced by decreased mRNA expression of collagen type IV-α2, fibronectin, PAI-1, and TGF-β1. In addition, cleaved PARP, an apoptotic gene, was upregulated in the diabetic nephropathy mice, and this was ameliorated after PCS extract treatment. Treatment of high glucose-treated MES-13 cells with isopsoralen and psoralen, major components of PCS extract, also decreased the expression of fibrosis and apoptosis marker genes and increased cell viability. PCS extract exerts protective effects against STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy via anti-fibrotic and anti-apoptotic effects. PCS extract might be a potential pharmacological agent to protect against high glucose-induced renal damage under diabetic conditions.
Electrospinning PCL Scaffolds Manufacture for Three-Dimensional Breast Cancer Cell Culture
Authors: Rabionet Marc , Yeste Marc , Puig Teresa , Ciurana Joaquim
Published: August 2017

In vitro cell culture is traditionally performed within two-dimensional (2D) environments, providing a quick and cheap way to study cell properties in a laboratory. However, 2D systems differ from the in vivo environment and may not mimic the physiological cell behavior realistically. For instance, 2D culture models are thought to induce cancer stem cells (CSCs) differentiation, a rare cancer cell subpopulation responsible for tumor initiation and relapse. This fact hinders the development of therapeutic strategies for tumors with a high relapse percentage, such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Thus, three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds have emerged as an attractive alternative to monolayer culture, simulating the extracellular matrix structure and maintaining the differentiation state of cells. In this work, scaffolds were fabricated through electrospinning different poly(ε-caprolactone)-acetone solutions. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) meshes were seeded with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and 15% PCL scaffolds displayed significantly (p < 0.05) higher cell proliferation and elongation than the other culture systems. Moreover, cells cultured on PCL scaffolds exhibited higher mammosphere forming capacity and aldehyde dehydrogenase activity than 2D-cultured cells, indicating a breast CSCs enrichment. These results prove the powerful capability of electrospinning technology in terms of poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofibers fabrication. In addition, this study has demonstrated that electrospun 15% PCL scaffolds are suitable tools to culture breast cancer cells in a more physiological way and to expand the niche of breast CSCs. In conclusion, three-dimensional cell culture using PCL scaffolds could be useful to study cancer stem cell behavior and may also trigger the development of new specific targets against such malignant subpopulation.
Development and In Vitro Evaluation of Lyotropic Liquid Crystals for the Controlled Release of Dexamethasone
Authors: Oyafuso Márcia , Carvalho Flávia , Takeshita Tatiane , De Souza Ana , Araújo Daniele , Merino Virginia , Gremião Maria , Chorilli Marlus
Published: August 2017

In this study, amphiphilic polymers were investigated as biomaterials that can control dexamethasone (DXM) release. Such materials present interfacial properties in the presence of water and an oily phase that can result in lyotropic liquid crystalline systems (LLCS). In addition, they can form colloidal nanostructures similar to those in living organisms, such as bilayers and hexagonal and cubic phases, which can be exploited to solubilize lipophilic drugs to sustain their release and enhance bioavailability. It was possible to obtain lamellar and hexagonal phases when combining polyoxyethylene (20) cetyl ether (CETETH-20) polymer with oleic acid (OA), N-methylpyrrolidone (P), isopropyl myristate (IM), and water. The phases were characterized by polarized light microscopy (PLM), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), rheological, textural, and bioadhesion analyses followed by an in vitro release assay. All samples showed elastic behavior in the rheology studies and hexagonal samples containing P and IM showed the highest adhesiveness. The drug release profile of all LLCS presented an average lag time of 3 h and was best fitted to the Korsmeyer-Peppas and Weibull models, with controlled release governed by a combination of diffusion and erosion mechanisms. These systems are potential carriers for DXM and can be explored in several routes of administration, providing potential advantages over conventional pharmaceutical forms.
Thermally-Induced Self-Healing Behaviors and Properties of Four Epoxy Coatings with Different Network Architectures
Authors: Fang Liang , Chen Jiamei , Zou Yuting , Xu Zhongzi , Lu Chunhua
Published: August 2017

The thermally-induced self-healing behavior of polymer coatings consists of two steps, i.e., gap closure and crack repair. In addition, the polymer coatings with thermally-induced self-healing capability are expected to show satisfied properties to ensure the application. Here, four epoxy coatings with dense irreversible Network I, dense reversible Network II based on a Diels–Alder (DA) reaction, loose irreversible Network III, as well as partially irreversible and partially reversible Network IV were prepared, respectively. The dense irreversible Network I showed an evident gap closure upon heating, while the crack still existed at the high temperature. The dense reversible Network II presented good self-healing upon direct heating at a high temperature of 150 °C, leading to the quick gap closure in 40 s and subsequent crack disappearance in 80 s. The loose irreversible Network III showed negligible crack variations upon heating, while the partially reversible and partially irreversible Network IV showed quick gap closure as well but only partial crack disappearance. Besides, the coating with the reversible Network II based on the DA reaction not only presented good self-healing capability but also possessed the satisfied mechanical properties and the best electrochemical corrosion property, ensuring its further exploitation and potential practical applications.
Central European Jewish Émigrés and the Shaping of Postwar Culture: Studies in Memory of Lilian Furst (1931–2009)
Authors: Hacohen Malachi
Published: August 2017

This volume grew out of a conference on “Jewish Émigrés and the Shaping of Postwar Culture,” organized by the Triangle Intellectual History Seminar and the Duke-UNC Jewish Studies Seminar to commemorate the late Lilian Renée Furst (1931–2009), the Marcel Bataillon Professor of Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.[...]
Canopy-Level Photochemical Reflectance Index from Hyperspectral Remote Sensing and Leaf-Level Non-Photochemical Quenching as Early Indicators of Water Stress in Maize
Authors: Chou Shuren , Chen Jing , Yu Hua , Chen Bin , Zhang Xiuying , Croft Holly , Khalid Shoaib , Li Meng , Shi Qin
Published: August 2017

In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of photochemical reflectance index (PRI) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) for assessing water stress in maize for the purpose of developing remote sensing techniques for monitoring water deficits in crops. Leaf-level chlorophyll fluorescence and canopy-level PRI were measured concurrently over a maize field with five different irrigation treatments, ranging from 20% to 90% of the field capacity (FC). Significant correlations were found between leaf-level NPQ (NPQleaf) and the ratio of chlorophyll to carotenoid content (Chl/Car) (R2 = 0.71, p < 0.01) and between NPQleaf and the actual photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (ΔF/Fm′) (R2 = 0.81, p < 0.005). At the early growing stage, both canopy-level PRI and NPQleaf are good indicators of water stress (R2 = 0.65 and p < 0.05; R2 = 0.63 and p < 0.05, respectively). For assessment of extreme water stress on plant growth, a relationship is also established between the quantum yield of photochemistry in PSII (ΦP) and the quantum yield of fluorescence (ΦF) as determined from photochemical quenching (PQ) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQleaf) of excitation energy at different water stress levels. These results would be helpful in monitoring soil water stress on crops at large scales using remote sensing techniques.
Comparison of the Selected State-Of-The-Art 3D Indoor Scanning and Point Cloud Generation Methods
Authors: Lehtola Ville , Kaartinen Harri , Nüchter Andreas , Kaijaluoto Risto , Kukko Antero , Litkey Paula , Honkavaara Eija , Rosnell Tomi , Vaaja Matti , Virtanen Juho-Pekka , Kurkela Matti , El Issaoui Aimad , Zhu Lingli , Jaakkola Anttoni , Hyyppä Juha
Published: August 2017

Accurate three-dimensional (3D) data from indoor spaces are of high importance for various applications in construction, indoor navigation and real estate management. Mobile scanning techniques are offering an efficient way to produce point clouds, but with a lower accuracy than the traditional terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). In this paper, we first tackle the problem of how the quality of a point cloud should be rigorously evaluated. Previous evaluations typically operate on some point cloud subset, using a manually-given length scale, which would perhaps describe the ranging precision or the properties of the environment. Instead, the metrics that we propose perform the quality evaluation to the full point cloud and over all of the length scales, revealing the method precision along with some possible problems related to the point clouds, such as outliers, over-completeness and misregistration. The proposed methods are used to evaluate the end product point clouds of some of the latest methods. In detail, point clouds are obtained from five commercial indoor mapping systems, Matterport, NavVis, Zebedee, Stencil and Leica Pegasus: Backpack, and three research prototypes, Aalto VILMA , FGI Slammer and the Würzburg backpack. These are compared against survey-grade TLS point clouds captured from three distinct test sites that each have different properties. Based on the presented experimental findings, we discuss the properties of the proposed metrics and the strengths and weaknesses of the above mapping systems and then suggest directions for future research.
Sensitivity and Frequency-Response Improvement of a Thermal Convection–Based Accelerometer
Authors: Han Maeum , Kim Jae , Park Jin-Hyoung , Kim Woojin , Kang Shin-Won , Kong Seong , Jung Daewoong
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a thermal convection–based sensor fabricated using simple microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based processes. This sensor can be applied to both acceleration and inclination measurements without modifying the structure. Because the operating mechanism of the accelerometer is the thermal convection of a gas medium, a simple model is proposed and developed in which the performance of the thermal convection–based accelerometer is closely associated with the Grashof number, Gr and the Prandtl number, Pr. This paper discusses the experiments that were performed by varying several parameters such as the heating power, cavity size, gas media, and air pressure. The experimental results demonstrate that an increase in the heating power, pressure, and cavity size leads to an increase in the accelerometer sensitivity. However, an increase in the pressure and/or cavity size results in a decrease in the frequency bandwidth. This paper also discusses the fact that a working-gas medium with a large thermal diffusivity and small kinematic viscosity can widen the frequency bandwidth and increase the sensitivity, respectively.
Integrating Optimal Heterogeneous Sensor Deployment and Operation Strategies for Dynamic Origin-Destination Demand Estimation
Authors: Zhu Senlai , Guo Yuntao , Chen Jingxu , Li Dawei , Cheng Lin
Published: August 2017

Most existing network sensor location problem (NSLP) models are designed to identify the number of sensors with fixed costs and installation locations, and sensors are assumed to be installed permanently. However, sometimes sensors are carried by individuals to collect traffic data measurements manually at fixed locations. Hence, their duration of operation for which traffic data measurements are collected is limited, and their costs are not fixed as they are correlated with the duration of operation. This paper proposes a NSLP model that integrates optimal heterogeneous sensor deployment and operation strategies for the dynamic O-D demand estimates under budget constraints. The deployment strategy consists of the numbers of link and node sensors and their installation locations. The operation strategy includes sensors’ start time and duration of operation, which has not been addressed in previous studies. An algorithm is developed to solve the proposed model. Numerical experiments performed on a network from a part of Chennai, India show that the proposed model can identify the optimal heterogeneous sensor deployment and operation strategies with the maximum dynamic O-D demand estimation accuracy.
“How Can You Write About a Person Who Does Not Exist?”: Rethinking Pseudonymity and Informed Consent in Life History Research
Authors: Mukungu Kate
Published: August 2017

This methodology paper recommends that, when possible, qualitative research on activism should be designed to enable each participant to choose between using a pseudonym and one’s actual name. The stance is informed by life history data collection encounters with women in post-conflict settings whose activism seeks to eliminate violence against women and girls (VAWG). The benefits of accommodating a mix of names make this a viable alternative to the prevalent practice of obscuring all participants’ identities with pseudonyms. Writing about participants in a way that does no harm to them depends on the care and attention with which the researcher ascribes or dissociates data to or from them, regardless of the name used. Process consent is desirable as participants’ consent is not fully informed prior to data collection. One aspect of informed consent worthy of attention is the need to explain the methods of data analysis and presentation of findings to life history participants. The above practices help ensure that negotiating informed consent with participants whilst acting towards the principle of doing no harm are tailored to the particular features of the life history method.
Effects of Different Land-Use Systems on Soil Aggregates: A Case Study of the Loess Plateau (Northern China)
Authors: Kalhoro Shahmir , Xu Xuexuan , Chen Wenyuan , Hua Rui , Raza Sajjad , Ding Kang
Published: August 2017

Soil aggregate stability is an important indicator for controlling soil losses and can improve soil quality, particularly in an area such as the Loess Plateau. The objective of this study was to estimate the differences in soil aggregates across six different land-use systems (grassland, apple orchard, abandoned apple orchard, cropland maize, cropland wheat, and shrub-grassland). For this purpose, dry and wet sieving techniques were employed to assess aggregate content and aggregate stability. Higher percentages of water stable aggregates were observed in the abandoned apple orchard and shrub-grassland at 63% and 61%, respectively. The maximum dry aggregate stability (%) was recorded at 78% and 77% in both wheat cropland and common apple orchard, and the abandoned apple orchard was only 74%. Both mean weight diameters and geometric mean diameters of aggregate were recorded as higher in grassland, shrub-grassland, and the abandoned apple orchard, than the other land uses. The formation of soil aggregates and their stability were positively correlated with soil organic carbon content and root biomass of different plant communities. Higher amounts of soil organic carbon content were noted in the abandoned apple orchard, common apple orchard, and natural grassland at the 0–20 cm soil layer. The results of the correlation coefficient showed a positive significant correlation between the mean weight diameter, geometric diameter, root biomass, and soil organic carbon content. Conclusively, the type of land use affected the soil aggregation and distribution of size fractions; the small fractions of the aggregates formed large fractions by combining with fresh organic matter, and increased soil organic carbon concentrations were closely linked with the formation of macro-aggregates. Thus, converting slope farmland to forestland and grassland could improve water-stable aggregate and reduce soil disturbances in areas (like the Loess Plateau) with the highest erosion risk.
Differentiated Optimization of Sustainable Land Use in Metropolitan Areas: A Demarcation of Functional Units for Land Consolidation
Authors: Yan Jinming , Shen Yue , Xia Fangzhou
Published: August 2017

In China, the combination of land supply finitude and land use inefficiency has become a barrier to sustainable development in urban society and the economy. Land consolidation has been widely implemented as a tool to improve the quality and quantity of land use, but is mainly limited to rural areas and focuses on farmland production, while not taking into consideration of aspects such as life, production, and ecology. Furthermore, contemporary research usually focuses on one land consolidation project, ignoring practical project arrangement at a regional macroscopic level and lacking specific differentiation in designing land consolidation projects. This study aims to create a method to determine functional units for land consolidation (FULC) in metropolitan areas to facilitate the sustainable use of land resources and improve the efficiency of land use. Moreover, a framework to assess the overall demarcation of FULC is developed. The proposed model considers the production, life, and ecology functions in the demarcation decisions regarding FULC. A typical metropolitan area, that is, Haidian District, Beijing, is used as a case study to demonstrate this framework. The analysis shows that the model can provide technical support and practical references for planners and executors to arrange different land consolidation projects at the macroscopic level. By taking all production, life, and ecological properties of the land parcels into consideration, the proposed model enables local governments to meet their sustainable development targets by managing specialized projects for FULC as a spatial governance platform.
Another Note on Paraconsistent Neutrosophic Sets
Authors: Lupiáñez Francisco
Published: August 2017

In an earlier paper, we proved that Smarandache’s definition of neutrosophic paraconsistent topology is neither a generalization of Çoker’s intuitionistic fuzzy topology nor a generalization of Smarandache’s neutrosophic topology. Recently, Salama and Alblowi proposed a new definition of neutrosophic topology, that generalizes Çoker’s intuitionistic fuzzy topology. Here, we study this new definition and its relation to Smarandache’s paraconsistent neutrosophic sets.