bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strain Localization during Equal-Channel Angular Pressing Analyzed by Finite Element Simulations
Authors: Horn Tobias , Silbermann Christian , Frint Philipp , Wagner Martin , Ihlemann Jörn
Published: January 2018

Equal-Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) is a method used to introduce severe plastic deformation into a metallic billet without changing its geometry. In special cases, strain localization occurs and a pattern consisting of regions with high and low deformation (so-called shear and matrix bands) can emerge. This paper studies this phenomenon numerically adopting two-dimensional finite element simulations of one ECAP pass. The mechanical behavior of aluminum is modeled using phenomenological plasticity theory with isotropic or kinematic hardening. The effects of the two different strain hardening types are investigated numerically by systematic parameter studies: while isotropic hardening only causes minor fluctuations in the plastic strain fields, a material with high initial hardening rate and sufficient strain hardening capacity can exhibit pronounced localized deformation after ECAP. The corresponding finite element simulation results show a regular pattern of shear and matrix bands. This result is confirmed experimentally by ECAP-processing of AA6060 material in a severely cold worked condition, where microstructural analysis also reveals the formation of shear and matrix bands. Excellent agreement is found between the experimental and numerical results in terms of shear and matrix band width and length scale. The simulations provide additional insights regarding the evolution of the strain and stress states in shear and matrix bands.
Fabrication of a Lab-on-Chip Device Using Material Extrusion (3D Printing) and Demonstration via Malaria-Ab ELISA
Authors: Bauer Maria , Kulinsky Lawrence
Published: January 2018

Additive manufacturing, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), has been increasingly employed to produce microfluidic platforms due to ease of use, wide distribution of affordable 3D printers and relatively inexpensive materials for printing. In this work, we discuss fabrication and testing of an FDM-printed fully automated colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) designed to detect malaria. The detection platform consists of a disposable 3D-printed fluidic cartridge (with elastomeric silicone domes on top of reagent-storage reservoirs) and a nondisposable frame with servomotors and electronic controls such as an Arduino board and a rechargeable battery. The system is controlled by a novel interface where a music file (so-called “song”) is sent to the Arduino board, where the onboard program converts the set of frequencies into action of individual servomotors to rotate their arms a certain amount, thus depressing specific elastomeric domes atop reagent reservoirs and displacing the specific reagents into the detection wells, where bioassay steps are executed. Another of the distinguished characteristics of the demonstrated system is its ability to aspirate the fluid from the detection wells into the waste reservoir. Therefore, the demonstrated automated platform has the ability to execute even the most complex multi-step assays where dilution and multiple washes are required. Optimization of 3D-printer settings and ways to control leakages typical of FDM-printed fluidic systems are also discussed.
Biogenic Weathering: Solubilization of Iron from Minerals by Epilithic Freshwater Algae and Cyanobacteria
Authors: Mustoe George
Published: January 2018

A sandstone outcrop exposed to freshwater seepage supports a diverse assemblage of photosynthetic microbes. Dominant taxa are two cyanophytes (Oscillatoria sp., Rivularia sp.) and a unicellular green alga (Palmellococcus sp.). Less abundant taxa include a filamentous green alga, Microspora, and the desmid Cosmarium. Biologic activity is evidenced by measured levels of chlorophyll and lipids. Bioassay methods confirm the ability of these microbes to dissolve and metabolize Fe from ferruginous minerals. Chromatographic analysis reveals citric acid as the likely chelating agent; this low molecular weight organic acid is detectable in interstitial fluid in the sandstone, measured as 0.0756 mg/mL. Bioassays using a model organism, Synechoccus elongates strain UTEX 650, show that Fe availability varies among different ferruginous minerals. In decreasing order of Fe availability: magnetite > limonite > biotite > siderite > hematite. Biotite was selected for detailed study because it is the most abundant iron-bearing mineral in the sandstone. SEM images support the microbiologic evidence, showing weathering of biotite compared to relatively undamaged grains of other silicate minerals.
Influence of the Interaction between Sphalerite and Pyrite on the Copper Activation of Sphalerite
Authors: Yang Bo , Tong Xiong , Lan Zhuoyue , Cui Yiqi , Xie Xian
Published: January 2018

In this paper, the effect of pyrite on the activation of sphalerite was investigated by micro-flotation, copper adsorption experiments, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical measurement. The micro-flotation test results showed that the recovery and flotation rate of sphalerite with copper sulphate as activator and butyl xanthate as collector were significantly decreased with the increasing content of pyrite in pulp. Cu2+ adsorption results indicated that the adsorption of Cu2+ on the sphalerite surface were decreased when pyrite was present in the pulp. XPS surface analysis demonstrated that the proportion of Cu+ species increased in the activation products on the sphalerite surface, but the total atomic concentration of Cu atom was decreased. Linear voltammetry measurement suggested that the current density of Cu+ species oxidizing to Cu2+ species was increased when sphalerite was electrically contacted with pyrite, which confirmed the increased proportion of Cu+ species on Cu-activation sphalerite surface when contacting with pyrite. These results indicated that there is not only a competitive adsorption for cupric ions (Cu2+), but the galvanic interaction between sphalerite and pyrite also has a significant influence on the copper activation of sphalerite.
Efficient Extraction of Vanadium from Vanadium–Titanium Magnetite Concentrate by Potassium Salt Roasting Additives
Authors: Li Renmin , Liu Tao , Zhang Yimin , Huang Jing , Xu Chengbao
Published: January 2018

In this paper, potassium salt roasting additives were applied to extract vanadium from vanadium–titanium magnetite concentrate. Meanwhile, the mechanisms of potassium salt roasting and acid leaching kinetics were investigated. The results indicate that potassium salt roasting additives are more efficient than sodium and calcium salt and that K2SO4 works best. Under certain conditions (a dosage of K2SO4 of 4 wt %, a roasting temperature of 900 °C, a roasting time of 1 h, a leaching temperature of 95 °C, a sulfuric acid concentration of 10% (v/v), and a leaching time of 1.5 h with a liquid to solid ratio of 3 mL/g) the vanadium leaching efficiency reached 71.37%, an increase of 30.20% compared to that of blank roasting. Additionally, XRD and related SEM-EDS analyses indicated that K2SO4 fully destroyed the structure of vanadium-bearing minerals such as magnetite, and promoted the generation of soluble KVO3 to inhibit the formation of insoluble Ca(VO3)2 in the roasting process. Furthermore, it promoted the dissolution of sphene and the release of its vanadium in the leaching process, which increased the vanadium leaching efficiency significantly. Meanwhile, leaching kinetics analyses showed that the leaching process was controlled by internal diffusion; the apparent activation energy decreased from 37.43 kJ/mol with blank roasting to 26.31 kJ/mol with potassium salt roasting. The reaction order, with regards to the sulfuric acid concentration, decreased from 0.6588 to 0.5799. Therefore, potassium salt roasting could improve mineral activity, accelerating the leaching process and reducing the dependence on high temperature and high acidity.
Novel 6- and 7-Substituted Coumarins with Inhibitory Action against Lipoxygenase and Tumor-Associated Carbonic Anhydrase IX
Authors: Peperidou Aikaterini , Bua Silvia , Bozdag Murat , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra , Supuran Claudiu
Published: January 2018

A series of carboxamide derivatives of 6- and 7-substituted coumarins have been prepared by an original procedure starting from the corresponding 6- or 7-hydroxycoumarins which were alkylated with ethyl iodoacetate, and the obtained ester was converted to the corresponding carboxylic acids which were thereafter reacted with a series of aromatic/aliphatic/heterocyclic amines leading to the desired amides. The new derivatives were investigated as inhibitors of two enzymes, human carbonic anhydrases (hCAs) and soy bean lipoxygenase (LOX). Compounds 4a and 4b were potent LOX inhibitors, whereas many effective hCA IX inhibitors (KIs in the range of 30.2–30.5 nM) were detected in this study. Two compounds, 4b and 5b, showed the phenomenon of dual inhibition. Furthermore, these coumarins did not significantly inhibit the widespread cytosolic isoforms hCA I and II, whereas they were weak hCA IV inhibitors, making them hCA IX-selective inhibitors. As hCA IX and LOX are validated antitumor targets, these results are promising for the investigation of novel drug targets involved in tumorigenesis.
A Mild Aqueous Sonogashira Reaction as a Fluorescent Labeling Strategy for 5-Bromide-2′-Deoxyuridine
Authors: Wang Shufang , Gao Yongxin , Shen Shigang , Wen Hui , Cui Huaqing
Published: January 2018

C5-modified uridines are a valuable class of nucleoside analogues, both as potent chemotherapy agents and through their use as the conjunction site in DNA labeling strategies. As an important C5-modified uridine, BrdU has been used in cell proliferation assays since the 1980s. Currently, the detection of BrdU relies on traditional immunostaining; however, this approach has its limitations. Thus, it is desirable, albeit difficult, to develop chemistry methods to fluorescently label BrdU in a cellular context. In the present study, we report our efforts toward developing a robust chemistry methodology for BrdU fluorescent labeling. The Sonogashira reaction was chosen as the key reaction, and various alkynyl groups (aliphatic or aryl) containing fluorescent dyes were synthesized to cross-couple with BrdU. Various bases and catalyst systems were screened to evaluate the optimum conditions. A mild aqueous Sonogashira reaction (K2PdCl4, S-Phos, n-Bu4N+OH−, Sodium d-isoascorbate, EtOH/H2O = 1:1, 37 °C, Ar) was obtained to enable high-yielding BrdU fluorescent labeling.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, Antimicrobial Activity, and In Vitro Biocompatibility of New Unsaturated Carboxylate Complexes with 2,2′-Bipyridine
Authors: Vasile Scăețeanu Gina , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Bleotu Coralia , Kamerzan Crina , Măruţescu Luminiţa , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Maxim Cătălin , Calu Larisa , Olar Rodica , Badea Mihaela
Published: January 2018

The synthesis, structural characterization, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial properties of four new complexes formed by employing acrylate anion and 2,2′-bipyridine are reported herein. X-ray crystallography revealed the trinuclear nature of [Mn3(2,2′-bipy)2(C3H3O2)6] (1), meanwhile complexes with general formula [M(2,2′-bipy)(C3H3O2)2(H2O)x]∙yH2O ((2) M: Ni, x = 1, y = 0; (3) M: Cu, x = 1, y = 0; (4) M: Zn, x = 0, y = 1; 2,2′-bipy: 2,2′-bipyridine; C3H3O2: acrylate anion) were shown to be mononuclear. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 128 μg mL−1 was recorded for all four tested complexes against Candida albicans, for complex (3) against Escherichia coli, and for complex (4) against Staphylocococcus aureus. Compounds (3) and (4) were also potent efflux pumps activity inhibitors (EPI), proving their potential for use in synergistic combinations with antibiotics. Complexes (1)–(4) revealed that they were not cytotoxic to HCT-8 cells. They also proved to interfere with the cellular cycle of tumour HCT-8 cells by increasing the number of cells found in the S and G2/M phases. Taken together, these results demonstrate the potential of zinc and copper complexes for use in the development of novel antimicrobial and anti-proliferative agents.
A Xylenol Orange-Based Screening Assay for the Substrate Specificity of Flavin-Dependent para-Phenol Oxidases
Authors: Ewing Tom , Van Noord Aster , Paul Caroline , Van Berkel Willem
Published: January 2018

Vanillyl alcohol oxidase (VAO) and eugenol oxidase (EUGO) are flavin-dependent enzymes that catalyse the oxidation of para-substituted phenols. This makes them potentially interesting biocatalysts for the conversion of lignin-derived aromatic monomers to value-added compounds. To facilitate their biocatalytic exploitation, it is important to develop methods by which variants of the enzymes can be rapidly screened for increased activity towards substrates of interest. Here, we present the development of a screening assay for the substrate specificity of para-phenol oxidases based on the detection of hydrogen peroxide using the ferric-xylenol orange complex method. The assay was used to screen the activity of VAO and EUGO towards a set of twenty-four potential substrates. This led to the identification of 4-cyclopentylphenol as a new substrate of VAO and EUGO and 4-cyclohexylphenol as a new substrate of VAO. Screening of a small library of VAO and EUGO active-site variants for alterations in their substrate specificity led to the identification of a VAO variant (T457Q) with increased activity towards vanillyl alcohol (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl alcohol) and a EUGO variant (V436I) with increased activity towards chavicol (4-allylphenol) and 4-cyclopentylphenol. This assay provides a quick and efficient method to screen the substrate specificity of para-phenol oxidases, facilitating the enzyme engineering of known para-phenol oxidases and the evaluation of the substrate specificity of novel para-phenol oxidases.
Recent Advances of Rare-Earth Ion Doped Luminescent Nanomaterials in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qiao Yu , Li Shuhan , Liu Wenhui , Ran Meiqing , Lu Haifei , Yang Yingping
Published: January 2018

Organic-inorganic lead halide based perovskite solar cells have received broad interest due to their merits of low fabrication cost, a low temperature solution process, and high energy conversion efficiencies. Rare-earth (RE) ion doped nanomaterials can be used in perovskite solar cells to expand the range of absorption spectra and improve the stability due to its upconversion and downconversion effect. This article reviews recent progress in using RE-ion-doped nanomaterials in mesoporous electrodes, perovskite active layers, and as an external function layer of perovskite solar cells. Finally, we discuss the challenges facing the effective use of RE-ion-doped nanomaterials in perovskite solar cells and present some prospects for future research.
Dietary Supplement of Large Yellow Tea Ameliorates Metabolic Syndrome and Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis in db/db Mice
Authors: Teng Yun , Li Daxiang , Guruvaiah Ponmari , Xu Na , Xie Zhongwen
Published: January 2018

Yellow tea has been widely recognized for its health benefits. However, its effects and mechanism are largely unknown. The current study investigated the mechanism of dietary supplements of large yellow tea and its effects on metabolic syndrome and the hepatic steatosis in male db/db mice. Our data showed that dietary supplements of large yellow tea and water extract significantly reduced water intake and food consumption, lowered the serum total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and significantly reduced blood glucose level and increased glucose tolerance in db/db mice when compared to untreated db/db mice. In addition, the dietary supplement of large yellow tea prevented the fatty liver formation and restored the normal hepatic structure of db/db mice. Furthermore, the dietary supplement of large yellow tea obviously reduced the lipid synthesis related to gene fatty acid synthase, the sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 and acetyl-CoA carboxylase α, as well as fatty acid synthase and sterol response element-binding protein 1 expression, while the lipid catabolic genes were not altered in the liver of db/db mice. This study substantiated that the dietary supplement of large yellow tea has potential as a food additive for ameliorating type 2 diabetes-associated symptoms.
Gender-Associated Impact of Early Leucine Supplementation on Adult Predisposition to Obesity in Rats
Authors: López Nora , Sánchez Juana , Palou Andreu , Serra Francisca
Published: January 2018

Early nutrition plays an important role in development and may constitute a relevant contributor to the onset of obesity in adulthood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term impact of maternal leucine (Leu) supplementation during lactation on progeny in rats. A chow diet, supplemented with 2% Leu, was supplied during lactation (21 days) and, from weaning onwards, was replaced by a standard chow diet. Then, at adulthood (6 months of age), this was replaced with hypercaloric diets (either with high-fat (HF) or high-carbohydrate (HC) content), for two months, to induce obesity. Female offspring from Leu-supplemented dams showed higher increases in body weight and in body fat (62%) than their respective controls; whereas males were somehow protected (15% less fat than the corresponding controls). This profile in Leu-females was associated with altered neuronal architecture at the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), involving neuropeptide Y (NPY) fibers and impaired expression of neuropeptides and factors of the mTOR signaling pathway in the hypothalamus. Interestingly, leptin and adiponectin expression in adipose tissue at weaning and at the time before the onset of obesity could be defined as early biomarkers of metabolic disturbance, predisposing towards adult obesity under the appropriate environment.
Pharmacological Investigation of the Anti-Inflammation and Anti-Oxidation Activities of Diallyl Disulfide in a Rat Emphysema Model Induced by Cigarette Smoke Extract
Authors: Liu Yan , Li Ang , Feng Xiuli , Sun Xiao , Zhu Xiaosong , Zhao Zhongxi
Published: January 2018

Diallyl disulfide (DADS) is the main organosulfur ingredient in garlic, with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of DADS on reducing the inflammation and redox imbalance in a rat emphysema model that was induced by intraperitoneal injection of cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Briefly, DADS exerted an anti-inflammation effect on emphysema rats through decreasing cell influx in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and suppressing pro-inflammation cytokine production including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) via inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. In addition, levels of oxidative stress markers including malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were reduced, while the activities of glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) were markedly enhanced by DADS. Moreover, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression were down-regulated by DADS. Furthermore, the regulation effects of DADS on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were observed. In conclusion, these encouraging findings suggest that DADS could be considered as a promising anti-inflammation and antioxidative agent for the treatment of emphysema.
Relative Validity of a 24-h Recall in Assessing Intake of Key Nutrients in a Cohort of Australian Toddlers
Authors: Beaton Elizabeth , Wright Janine , Devenish Gemma , Do Loc , Scott Jane
Published: January 2018

There is limited information concerning the dietary intake of toddlers in Australia. Consequently, there is a need for studies investigating toddler intake that use dietary assessment measures that are valid and place a low participant burden on caregivers. The aim of this study was to determine the relative validity of a single 24-h dietary recall (24HR) in measuring the intake of five nutrients in a cohort of Australian toddlers compared to a combined 24HR and 2-day estimated food record (2DFR). A single 24HR and a 2DFR were collected from a cohort of Australian toddlers (n = 699) at approximately 12 months of age as part of the Study of Mothers’ and Infants’ Life Events affecting oral health (SMILE) project. Relative validity of one day of dietary data (24HR) in assessing intake of energy, protein, calcium, iron, and added sugars was tested against three days of dietary data (24HR + 2DFR) using paired t-tests, Bland–Altman analysis, cross-classification, and weighted Kappa statistic. Classification analysis found good agreement between the 24HR and 24HR + 2DFR for all nutrients with the percentage classified in the same tertile at 57.9% and above. The weighted Kappa statistic found acceptable agreement for all nutrients. This study suggests that a 24HR is a valid assessment tool for estimating the relative intake of energy, protein, calcium, iron, and added sugars among Australian toddlers at the individual level.
Association between Haem and Non-Haem Iron Intake and Serum Ferritin in Healthy Young Women
Authors: Young Isabel , Parker Helen , Rangan Anna , Prvan Tania , Cook Rebecca , Donges Cheyne , Steinbeck Kate , O’Dwyer Nicholas , Cheng Hoi , Franklin Janet , O’Connor Helen
Published: January 2018

Iron is an essential micronutrient for human health and inadequate intake may result in iron deficiency (ID) or iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Unlike other recent studies investigating iron status in young women, this cross-sectional study analysed dietary intake and biochemical data from healthy young (18–35 years) women (n = 299) to determine the association between both haem iron (HI) and non-haem iron (NHI) intakes and serum ferritin (SF). Dietary restraint and possible inflammation secondary to obesity were also measured and accounted for, and energy intake was adjusted for using the residuals method. Independent samples t-tests and chi-squared tests were performed, and factors found to be significantly different between iron replete (IR) and ID/IDA participants were analysed using general linear modelling. ID/IDA participants consumed significantly lower total energy than iron replete (IR) (p = 0.003). Lower energy intake was also associated with higher levels of dietary restraint (p = 0.001). Both HI and NHI were positively associated with SF with HI was found to be a stronger predictor (β = 0.128, p = 0.009) than NHI (β = 0.037, p = 0.028). The study demonstrates that intake of both HI and NHI, as well as adequate dietary energy, are associated with normal iron status levels in young women, and that restrained eaters may be at greater risk of low iron status.
Validation of a Rapid Method to Assess Habitual Beverage Intake Patterns
Authors: Hedrick Valisa , Myers Emily , Zoellner Jamie , Duffey Kiyah , Davy Brenda
Published: January 2018

The Healthy Beverage Index (HBI) is an emerging approach to assess beverage pattern quality. HBI total scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater adherence to proposed beverage recommendations. However, assessing patterns is resource-intensive due to the need for extensive dietary data, typically 24-h dietary records or recalls. The BEVQ-15, a beverage intake questionnaire, may be used as an alternative method to rapidly measure HBI scores. The objective of this cross-sectional investigation is to assess the comparative validity of the HBI-Q, a method to rapidly assess HBI scores via the BEVQ-15, as compared to the traditional method of deriving HBI scores via dietary recalls/records. Between 2012 and 2016, a cross-sectional sample of adults in southwest Virginia completed three 24-h dietary recalls (30–60 min administration and analysis time per recall) and the BEVQ-15 (3–4 min administration time). HBI scores were generated by both methods, and compared via paired-samples t-tests, correlations, and Bland–Altman analysis. Among 404 adults (mean age = 40 years), total mean HBI scores were 63.7 from the HBI-Q and 67.3 from the recalls (mean difference = 3.6 out of 100; r = 0.63; both p ≤ 0.001). Agreement between the two methods for total HBI scores via Bland–Altman plots was 92%. Using the HBI-Q to rapidly assess HBI scores in adults will increase the utility of the HBI by decreasing the time and resources required, thus allowing researchers and practitioners to provide targeted feedback for improvement.
Association between the Frequency of Protein-Rich Food Intakes and Kihon-Checklist Frailty Indices in Older Japanese Adults: The Kyoto-Kameoka Study
Authors: Yamaguchi Miwa , Yamada Yosuke , Nanri Hinako , Nozawa Yoshizu , Itoi Aya , Yoshimura Eiichi , Watanabe Yuya , Yoshida Tsukasa , Yokoyama Keiichi , Goto Chiho , Ishikawa-Takata Kazuko , Kobayashi Hisamine , Kimura Misaka ,   Kyoto-Kameoka Study Group
Published: January 2018

We aimed to investigate whether frequencies of protein-rich food intake were associated with frailty among older Japanese adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2011 among 3843 men and 4331 women in a population-based cohort of Kameoka city, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Frailty was assessed by the weighted score based on the 25-item Kihon-Checklist. The frequency of protein-rich food intake was examined as “seafood”, “meat”, “dairy products”, “eggs”, and “soy products”. The outcome of frailty was analyzed with a multiple logistic regression model using the frequency of protein-rich food intake. When compared to the first quartile, it was observed that there was a significant association between the lower adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) for frailty and the frequency of seafood intake in the fourth quartile among men (PR 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.42, 0.99) and from the second quartile to the third quartile among women (PR 0.61, 95% CI, 0.43, 0.85; PR 0.64, 95% CI, 0.46, 0.91). The frequency of dairy products intake in the third quartile among women was significantly associated with a lower PR for frailty (p-value = 0.013). Our findings suggest that the consumption of seafood and dairy products may help older adults in maintaining their independence.
Acute Post-Prandial Cognitive Effects of Brown Seaweed Extract in Humans
Authors: Haskell-Ramsay Crystal , Jackson Philippa , Dodd Fiona , Forster Joanne , Bérubé Jocelyn , Levinton Carey , Kennedy David
Published: January 2018

(Poly)phenols and, specifically, phlorotannins present in brown seaweeds have previously been shown to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase, key enzymes involved in the breakdown and intestinal absorption of carbohydrates. Related to this are observations of modulation of post-prandial glycemic response in mice and increased insulin sensitivity in humans when supplemented with seaweed extract. However, no studies to date have explored the effect of seaweed extract on cognition. The current randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel groups study examined the impact of a brown seaweed extract on cognitive function post-prandially in 60 healthy adults (N = 30 per group). Computerized measures of episodic memory, attention and subjective state were completed at baseline and 5 times at 40 min intervals over a 3 h period following lunch, with either seaweed or placebo consumed 30 min prior to lunch. Analysis was conducted with linear mixed models controlling for baseline. Seaweed led to significant improvements to accuracy on digit vigilance (p = 0.035) and choice reaction time (p = 0.043) tasks. These findings provide the first evidence for modulation of cognition with seaweed extract. In order to explore the mechanism underlying these effects, future research should examine effects on cognition in parallel with blood glucose and insulin responses.
Associations between Zinc Deficiency and Metabolic Abnormalities in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Himoto Takashi , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: January 2018

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element which has favorable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic effects. The liver mainly plays a crucial role in maintaining systemic Zn homeostasis. Therefore, the occurrence of chronic liver diseases, such as chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or fatty liver, results in the impairment of Zn metabolism, and subsequently Zn deficiency. Zn deficiency causes plenty of metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis and hepatic encephalopathy. Inversely, metabolic abnormalities like hypoalbuminemia in patients with liver cirrhosis often result in Zn deficiency. Recent studies have revealed the putative mechanisms by which Zn deficiency evokes a variety of metabolic abnormalities in chronic liver disease. Zn supplementation has shown beneficial effects on such metabolic abnormalities in experimental models and actual patients with chronic liver disease. This review summarizes the pathogenesis of metabolic abnormalities deriving from Zn deficiency and the favorable effects of Zn administration in patients with chronic liver disease. In addition, we also highlight the interactions between Zn and other trace elements, vitamins, amino acids, or hormones in such patients.
Does a High Sugar High Fat Dietary Pattern Explain the Unequal Burden in Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in a Multi-Ethnic Population in The Netherlands? The HELIUS Study
Authors: Huisman Merel , Soedamah-Muthu Sabita , Vermeulen Esther , Muilwijk Mirthe , Snijder Marieke , Nicolaou Mary , Van Valkengoed Irene
Published: January 2018

The risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in ethnic minorities in Europe is higher in comparison with their European host populations. The western dietary pattern, characterized by high amounts of sugar and saturated fat (HSHF dietary pattern), has been associated with a higher risk for T2D. Information on this association in minority populations is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the HSHF dietary pattern and its role in the unequal burden of T2D prevalence in a multi-ethnic population in The Netherlands. We included 4694 participants aged 18–70 years of Dutch, South-Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, Turkish, and Moroccan origin from the HELIUS study. Dutch participants scored the highest on the HSHF dietary pattern, followed by the Turkish, Moroccan, African Surinamese, and South-Asian Surinamese participants. Prevalence ratios (PR) for T2D were then calculated using multivariate cox regression analyses, adjusted for sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors. Higher adherence to an HSHF diet was not significantly related to T2D prevalence in the total study sample (PR 1.04 high versus low adherence, 95% CI: 0.80–1.35). In line, adjustment for HSHF diet score did not explain the ethnic differences in T2D. For instance, the PR of the South-Asian Surinamese vs. Dutch changed from 2.76 (95% CI: 2.05–3.72) to 2.90 (95% CI: 2.11–3.98) after adjustment for HSHF. To conclude, a western dietary pattern high in sugar and saturated fat was not associated with T2D, and did not explain the unequal burden in prevalence of T2D across the ethnic groups.
Interstitial Glucose and Physical Exercise in Type 1 Diabetes: Integrative Physiology, Technology, and the Gap In-Between
Authors: Moser Othmar , Yardley Jane , Bracken Richard
Published: January 2018

Continuous and flash glucose monitoring systems measure interstitial fluid glucose concentrations within a body compartment that is dramatically altered by posture and is responsive to the physiological and metabolic changes that enable exercise performance in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Body fluid redistribution within the interstitial compartment, alterations in interstitial fluid volume, changes in rate and direction of fluid flow between the vasculature, interstitium and lymphatics, as well as alterations in the rate of glucose production and uptake by exercising tissues, make for caution when interpreting device read-outs in a rapidly changing internal environment during acute exercise. We present an understanding of the physiological and metabolic changes taking place with acute exercise and detail the blood and interstitial glucose responses with different forms of exercise, namely sustained endurance, high-intensity, and strength exercises in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Further, we detail novel technical information on currently available patient devices. As more health services and insurance companies advocate their use, understanding continuous and flash glucose monitoring for its strengths and limitations may offer more confidence for patients aiming to manage glycemia around exercise.
Application of Nanoparticle Technologies in the Combat against Anti-Microbial Resistance
Authors: Kumar Mayur , Curtis Anthony , Hoskins Clare
Published: January 2018

Anti-microbial resistance is a growing problem that has impacted the world and brought about the beginning of the end for the old generation of antibiotics. Increasingly, more antibiotics are being prescribed unnecessarily and this reckless practice has resulted in increased resistance towards these drugs, rendering them useless against infection. Nanotechnology presents a potential answer to anti-microbial resistance, which could stimulate innovation and create a new generation of antibiotic treatments for future medicines. Preserving existing antibiotic activity through novel formulation into or onto nanotechnologies can increase clinical longevity of action against infection. Additionally, the unique physiochemical properties of nanoparticles can provide new anti-bacterial modes of action which can also be explored. Simply concentrating on antibiotic prescribing habits will not resolve the issue but rather mitigate it. Thus, new scientific approaches through the development of novel antibiotics and formulations is required in order to employ a new generation of therapies to combat anti-microbial resistance.
The Influence of Chemically Modified Potato Maltodextrins on Stability and Rheological Properties of Model Oil-in-Water Emulsions
Authors: Pycia Karolina , Gryszkin Artur , Berski Wiktor , Juszczak Lesław
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the maltodextrins prepared from chemically modified starches (crosslinked, stabilized, crosslinked and stabilized) on the stability and rheological properties of model oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions. Based on the obtained results, it was concluded that emulsion stability depended on hydrolysates dextrose equivalent (DE) value. Maltodextrin with the lowest degree of depolymerization effectively stabilized the dispersed system, and the effectiveness of this action depended on the maltodextrin type and concentration. Addition of distarch phosphate-based maltodextrin stabilized emulsion at the lowest applied concentration, and the least effective was maltodextrin prepared from acetylated starch. Emulsions stabilized by maltodextrins (DE 6) prepared from distarch phosphate and acetylated distarch adipate showed the predominance of the elastic properties over the viscous ones. Only emulsion stabilized by maltodextrin prepared from distarch phosphate (E1412) revealed the properties of strong gel. Additionally, the decrease in emulsions G′ and G″ moduli values, combined with an increase in the value of DE maltodextrins, was observed.
Effect of the Configuration of a Bulky Aluminum Initiator on the Structure of Copolymers of l,l-Lactide with Symmetric Comonomer Trimethylene Carbonate
Authors: Socka Marta , Szymanski Ryszard , Sosnowski Stanislaw , Duda Andrzej
Published: January 2018

The effect of configuration of an asymmetric bulky initiator 2,2′-[1,1′-binaphtyl-2,2′-diyl- bis-(nitrylomethilidyne)]diphenoxy aluminum isopropoxide (Ini) on structure of copolymer of asymmetric monomer l,l-lactide (Lac) with symmetric comonomer trimethylene carbonate (Tmc) was studied using polarimetry, dilatometry, Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), and Carbon Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (13C NMR). When the S-enantiomer of Ini was used the distribution in copolymer chains at the beginning of polymerization is statistical, with alternacy tendency, changing next through a gradient region to homoblocks of Tmc. However, when R-Ini was used, the product formed was a gradient oligoblock one, with Tmc blocks prevailing at the beginning, changing to Lac blocks dominating at the end part of chains. Initiation of copolymerization with the mixture of both initiator enantiomers (S:R = 6:94) gave a multiblock copolymer of similar features but shorter blocks. Analysis of copolymerization progress required complex analysis of dilatometric data, assuming different molar volume contraction coefficients for units located in different triads. Comonomer reactivity ratios of studied copolymerizations were determined.
Bleomycin-Loaded pH-Sensitive Polymer–Lipid-Incorporated Liposomes for Cancer Chemotherapy
Authors: Yuba Eiji , Osaki Tomohiro , Ono Misato , Park Shinjae , Harada Atsushi , Yamashita Masamichi , Azuma Kazuo , Tsuka Takeshi , Ito Norihiko , Imagawa Tomohiro , Okamoto Yoshiharu
Published: January 2018

Cancer chemotherapeutic systems with high antitumor effects and less adverse effects are eagerly desired. Here, a pH-sensitive delivery system for bleomycin (BLM) was developed using egg yolk phosphatidylcholine liposomes modified with poly(ethylene glycol)-lipid (PEG-PE) for long circulation in the bloodstream and 2-carboxycyclohexane-1-carboxylated polyglycidol-having distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (CHexPG-PE) for pH sensitization. The PEG-PE/CHexPG-PE-introduced liposomes showed content release responding to pH decrease and were taken up by tumor cells at a rate 2.5 times higher than that of liposomes without CHexPG-PE. BLM-loaded PEG-PE/CHexPG-PE-introduced liposomes exhibited comparable cytotoxicity with that of the free drug. Intravenous administration of these liposomes suppressed tumor growth more effectively in tumor-bearing mice than did the free drug and liposomes without CHexPG-PE. However, at a high dosage of BLM, these liposomes showed severe toxicity to the spleen, liver, and lungs, indicating the trapping of liposomes by mononuclear phagocyte systems, probably because of recognition of the carboxylates on the liposomes. An increase in PEG molecular weight on the liposome surface significantly decreased toxicity to the liver and spleen, although toxicity to the lungs remained. Further improvements such as the optimization of PEG density and lipid composition and the introduction of targeting ligands to the liposomes are required to increase therapeutic effects and to reduce adverse effects.
Editorial: A Celebration of the Ties That Bind Us: Connections between Actuarial Science and Mathematical Finance
Authors: Cohen Albert
Published: January 2018

In the nearly thirty years since Hans Buhlmann (Buhlmann (1987)) set out the notion of the Actuary of the Third Kind, the connection between Actuarial Science (AS) and Mathematical Finance (MF) has been continually reinforced. As siblings in the family of Risk Management techniques, practitioners in both fields have learned a great deal from each other. The collection of articles in this volume are contributed by scholars who are not only experts in areas of AS and MF, but also those who present diverse perspectives from both industry and academia. Topics from multiple areas, such as Stochastic Modeling, Credit Risk, Monte Carlo Simulation, and Pension Valuation, among others, that were maybe thought to be the domain of one type of risk manager are shown time and again to have deep value to other areas of risk management as well. The articles in this collection, in my opinion, contribute techniques, ideas, and overviews of tools that specialists in both AS and MF will find useful and interesting to implement in their work. It is also my hope that this collection will inspire future collaboration between those who seek an interdisciplinary approach to risk management.
Adaptive Window-Based Constrained Energy Minimization for Detection of Newly Grown Tree Leaves
Authors: Chen Shih-Yu , Lin Chinsu , Tai Chia-Hui , Chuang Shang-Ju
Published: January 2018

Leaf maturation from initiation to senescence is a phenological event of plants that results from the influences of temperature and water availability on physiological activities during a life cycle. Detection of newly grown leaves (NGL) is therefore useful for the diagnosis of tree growth, tree stress, and even climatic change. This paper applies Constrained Energy Minimization (CEM), which is a hyperspectral target detection technique to spot grown leaves in a UAV multispectral image. According to the proportion of NGL in different regions, this paper proposes three innovative CEM based detectors: Subset CEM, Sliding Window-based CEM (SW CEM), and Adaptive Sliding Window-based CEM (AWS CEM). AWS CEM can especially adjust the window size according to the proportion of NGL around the current pixel. The results show that AWS CEM improves the accuracy of NGL detection and also reduces the false alarm rate. In addition, the results of the supervised target detection depend on the appropriate signature. In this case, we propose the Optimal Signature Generation Process (OSGP) to extract the optimal signature. The experimental results illustrate that OSGP can effectively improve the stability and the detection rate.
Correction of Pushbroom Satellite Imagery Interior Distortions Independent of Ground Control Points
Authors: Zhang Guo , Xu Kai , Zhang Qingjun , Li Deren
Published: January 2018

Compensating for distortions in pushbroom satellite imagery has a bearing on subsequent earth observation applications. Traditional distortion correction methods usually depend on ground control points (GCPs) acquired from a high-accuracy geometric calibration field (GCF). Due to the high construction costs and site constraints of GCF, it is difficult to perform distortion detection regularly. To solve this problem, distortion detection methods without using GCPs have been proposed, but their application is restricted by rigorous conditions, such as demanding a large amount of calculation or good satellite agility which are not met by most remote sensing satellites. This paper proposes a novel method to correct interior distortions of satellite imagery independent of GCPs. First, a classic geometric calibration method for pushbroom satellite is built and at least three images with overlapping areas are collected, then the forward intersection residual between corresponding points in the images are used to calculate interior distortions. Experiments using the Gaofen-1 (GF-1) wide-field view-1 (WFV-1) sensor demonstrate that the proposed method can increase the level of orientation accuracy from several pixels to within one pixel, thereby almost eliminating interior distortions. Compared with the orientation accuracy by classic GCF method, there exists maximum difference of approximately 0.4 pixel, and the reasons for this discrepancy are analyzed. Generally, this method could be a supplementary method to conventional methods to detect and correct the interior distortion.
Improving Odometric Accuracy for an Autonomous Electric Cart
Authors: Toledo Jonay , Piñeiro Jose , Arnay Rafael , Acosta Daniel , Acosta Leopoldo
Published: January 2018

In this paper, a study of the odometric system for the autonomous cart Verdino, which is an electric vehicle based on a golf cart, is presented. A mathematical model of the odometric system is derived from cart movement equations, and is used to compute the vehicle position and orientation. The inputs of the system are the odometry encoders, and the model uses the wheels diameter and distance between wheels as parameters. With this model, a least square minimization is made in order to get the nominal best parameters. This model is updated, including a real time wheel diameter measurement improving the accuracy of the results. A neural network model is used in order to learn the odometric model from data. Tests are made using this neural network in several configurations and the results are compared to the mathematical model, showing that the neural network can outperform the first proposed model.
Multiple-Octave-Spanning Vibration Sensing Based on Simultaneous Vector Demodulation of 499 Fizeau Interference Signals from Identical Ultra-Weak Fiber Bragg Gratings Over 2.5 km
Authors: Li Yi , Qian Li , Zhou Ciming , Fan Dian , Xu Qiannan , Pang Yandong , Chen Xi , Tang Jianguan
Published: January 2018

Multi-point vibration sensing at the low frequency range of 0.5–100 Hz is of vital importance for applications such as seismic monitoring and underwater acoustic imaging. Location-resolved multi-point sensing using a single fiber and a single demodulation system can greatly reduce system deployment and maintenance costs. We propose and demonstrate the demodulation of a fiber-optic system consisting of 500 identical ultra-weak Fiber Bragg gratings (uwFBGs), capable of measuring the amplitude, frequency and phase of acoustic signals from 499 sensing fibers covering a total range of 2.5 km. For demonstration purposes, we arbitrarily chose six consecutive sensors and studied their performance in detail. Using a passive demodulation method, we interrogated the six sensors simultaneously, and achieved a high signal-to-noise ratio of 22.1 dB, excellent linearity, phase sensitivity of around 0.024 rad/Pa, and a dynamic range of about 38 dB. We demonstrated a frequency response flatness of <1.2 dB in the range of 0.5–100 Hz. Compared to the prior state-of-the-art demonstration using a similar method, we have increased the sensing range from 1 km to 2.5 km, and increased the frequency range from 0.4 octaves to 7.6 octaves, in addition to achieving sensing in the very challenging low-frequency range of 0.5–100 Hz.
Multi-Sensor Based Online Attitude Estimation and Stability Measurement of Articulated Heavy Vehicles
Authors: Zhu Qingyuan , Xiao Chunsheng , Hu Huosheng , Liu Yuanhui , Wu Jinjin
Published: January 2018

Articulated wheel loaders used in the construction industry are heavy vehicles and have poor stability and a high rate of accidents because of the unpredictable changes of their body posture, mass and centroid position in complex operation environments. This paper presents a novel distributed multi-sensor system for real-time attitude estimation and stability measurement of articulated wheel loaders to improve their safety and stability. Four attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS) are constructed using micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) sensors, and installed on the front body, rear body, rear axis and boom of an articulated wheel loader to detect its attitude. A complementary filtering algorithm is deployed for sensor data fusion in the system so that steady state margin angle (SSMA) can be measured in real time and used as the judge index of rollover stability. Experiments are conducted on a prototype wheel loader, and results show that the proposed multi-sensor system is able to detect potential unstable states of an articulated wheel loader in real-time and with high accuracy.