bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinantes de riesgo en la valoración de acciones en el mercado colombiano: modelo multifactorial comparativo
Authors: Carmona Muñoz Diana M. , Criollo Obando Cielo P.
Published: July 2017

Este artículo se fundamenta en el interés de presentar resultados de investigación encaminados a realizar una aproximación a las posibles fuentes de riesgo de mercado que de manera particular pudiesen influir en los rendimientos de las acciones que se cotizan en el Índice General de la Bolsa de valores de Colombia (IGBC), por tanto se realiza una aproximación a modelos de múltiples factores para caracterizar estos comportamientos a través de la metodología de componentes principales asintóticos (ACP). En la implementación de los modelos unifactoriales y multifactoriales se trabajan dos escenarios; el primero relacionado con las estimaciones a partir de una tasa libre de riesgo corto plazo (IBR-Índice Bancario de Referencia) y una tasa libre de riesgo largo plazo (TES Julios del 2020), cuyos resultados generados llevan a la conclusión que los modelos se comportan mejor en escenarios de corto plazo y que el mejor modelo de mejor pronóstico de los retornos de los activos de renta variable en Colombia sigue siendo el modelo de un solo factor representado por el riesgo de mercado. El desarrollo del trabajo de investigación permite ahondar mucho más en el conocimiento del mercado accionario en Colombia y aporta a la construcción de bases de datos que sirven como fuente de información e insumo para posteriores intereses de investigación, como es el caso de la construcción de los dividendos históricos de las acciones en los períodos entre 2007 y 2012, información que el mercado no tiene totalmente disponible y que permite realizar la valoración de los activos de una manera más ajustada
Dimensiones que conforman el riesgo de exclusión en el sistema de transporte en la ciudad de Cali, Colombia
Authors: Mosquera Abadia Henry A.
Published: July 2017

Los sistemas informales de transporte se han convertido en la manera para encaminar las necesidades insatisfechas de transporte de la población. Se ha encontrado que hay una fuerte relación entre informalidad laboral y situaciones de exclusión social relacionados con el uso de sistemas no formales de transporte. Esta situación trae como consecuencia un mayor costo para el sistema formal de transporte en las ciudades. Por ello, este artículo tiene como finalidad identificar las dimensiones que constituyen el riesgo de exclusión en transporte para los usuarios del sistema Masivo Integrado de Occidente (MIO) de la ciudad de Cali, Colombia, y el riesgo en que se encuentra en relación con el servicio de transporte, elementos de fundamental importancia para los tomadores de decisiones en la ciudad. Para la evaluación de la exclusión en el MIO, se emplearon cinco dimensiones que indican la probabilidad de riesgo de exclusión social [(risk of social exclusion (SOCEX)] de una persona como ingreso familiar, actividad económica, actividad política, participación y soporte social
La participación ciudadana en la implementación de las políticas educativas en Colombia
Authors: Arias Calderón Enrique , Ceballos Molano Raquel , Otálvaro Marín Bairon , Martínez Sander Ángela M. , Córdoba Hoyos Lyda T.
Published: July 2017

Este análisis responde a un estudio cualitativo sobre la eficacia del principio jurídico de la participación ciudadana en la implementación de las políticas públicas educativas en Colombia a nivel básico. Se utiliza una metodología de investigación cualitativa y los resultados permiten contrastar los principales hallazgos bibliográficos y documentales, a partir de un enfoque socio-jurídico el cual pretende reconocer la eficacia del precepto de la participación por parte de los llamados destinatarios de la norma jurídica consagrada en la Constitución Política como en la ley. La reflexión propuesta se hace desde la perspectiva asociada con los procesos de reforma del Estado en América Latina de mediados de la década de 1990, los cuales pretenden implementar estrategias para democratizar y generar confianza en la gestión pública. Este análisis teórico permitió evidenciar los principales desafíos que debe afrontar la participación ciudadana frente a las prácticas institucionales, sobre todo locales, encargadas de la implementación de las políticas públicas de calidad de la educación en el nivel básico
Antimicrobial Activity of Medicinal Plants and Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Hameed Imad Hadi , Al-Rubaye Abeer Fauzi , Kadhim Mohanad Jawad
Published: July 2017

Medicinal plants are part and parcel of human society to combat diseases from the dawn of civilization. According to
World Health Organization (WHO), about 80% of the world population rely chiefly on plant based traditional medicine
specially for their primary health care needs and there has been a worldwide move towards the use of traditional
medicines due to concerns over the more invasive, expensive and potentially toxic main stream practices. This review
gives a bird’s eye view on the updated information on urinary tract infections (UTIs), different categories of urologic
herbs, historical use and modern scientific investigations on some important urologic herbs, clinical studies, some
isolated chemical compounds and their possible side effects
Colic Phytotherapy in Iranian Ethnobotany: An Overview of the ffectiveness of the Most Important Native Medicinal Plants of Iran on olic Disease
Authors: Karimi Mehrdad , Mardani Mahnaz , Mahmoodnia Leila
Published: July 2017

Colon disorders and diseases are of the significant gastrointestinal problems. Medicinal plants have a wide range of health
effects. Medicinal herbs are used in the treatment of various diseases. Many native medicinal plants of Iran have anti-colic
effects. Thus, in this review, the medicinal plants of Iranian ethnobotanical resources with anti-colic effects were reported.
In this review study, a search for articles by the keywords colic, ethnobotanical, and medicinal plants was done. A search
on the databases, such as Scopus, ISI, SID, MegaIran, and a number of other databases was performed. Based on the review
results of ethnobotanical sources, it was revealed that the medicinal herbs of chamomile, lote, yarrow, dill, Tanacetum
parthenium, Sisymbrium irio, plantain, Damascus rose, licorice, garden sage, oregano, etc. are of the most important anticolic
medicinal plants.
Phytotherapy in Anorexia: Effective Medicinal Plants on Appetit Based on Iranian Ethnobotanical Sources
Authors: Hamidi Majid , Mahmoodnia Leila , Mardani Mahnaz
Published: July 2017

Appetite is defined based on the regulators of the food-related variables that predict eating behaviors. It influences on
energy homeostasis. Gastro-intestinal track is of the components of food intake and appetite control system. Environmental
signals, including insulin, ghrelin, leptin, and centeral neuropeptides in the hypothalamus specify an individual's appetite.
Medicinal plants are a natural and useful medicinal source in the treatment of diseases. Many native medicinal plants of
Iran have effective properties on appetite. Thus, in this review, the effective medicinal plants of Iranian ethnobotanical
resources on appetite were reported. In this review study, a search for articles by the keywords colic, ethnobotanical, and
medicinal plants was done. A search on the databases, such as Scopus, ISI C, S ID, Mega Iran, and a number of other
databases was performed. 26 herbs from different parts of Iran are traditionally used to treat anorexia. Such medicinal
plants as sweet fennel, artichoke, rhubarb, chamomile, chicory, turnip, wild plum, pennyroyal, thistle, fumitory, salsify,
etc. are of the most important medicinal plants affecting appetite.
The Antihypertension Effect of Fermented Skipjack Tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis L.)/Bakasang’s Peptide Extract Based on Cardiac’s Histopathology and Protease Activity on Hypertensive Rats Induced by Deoxycorticosterone Acetate (DOCA) -Salt
Authors: Nurmahdi Hilman , Wuragil Dyah Kinasih , Prasetyawan Sasangka , Aulann’am Aulanni’am
Published: July 2017

Hypertension is an abnormality of cardiovascular condition, marked by high-blood pressure over the normal condition.
One of the factors that causes hypertension is altered equilibrium of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosteron system (RAAS). This
condition, which commonly by genetic could causes excess production of Angiotensin II, which known as vasoconstrictor,
carried out by Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE). Angiotensin II could increases the body’s blood pressure, and
stimulates the production of free radicals, causing hypertension and oxidative stress. One of the common medication for
hypertensive patient are using ACE inhibitor pills. Consumption of commercial pills, had a negative effect on the patient,
such as skin iritation, cough, allergic reaction, etc. This study was conducted to explore the potential peptide of bakasang
extract isolated from fermented skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis L.) for antihypertensive therapy, based on the activity
of protease and histopathology of cardiac tissue on hypertensive rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by DOCA-salt. The rats
were divided into five groups: (1) negative control group, (2) hypertensive control group, (3) hypertension with captopril
therapy dose of 5 mg/kg of body weight (BW), (4) and (5) hypertension with bakasang’s peptide extract therapy dose of
200 mg/kgBW, and 300 mg/kgBW, respectively. The results showed that bakasang’s peptide extract dose of 200 mg/kgBW
significantly (p less than 0.05) decrease protease activity and improve histopathology of cardiac tissue on hypertensive rats.
Protease activity post-therapy decreased to be 39.27 % from positive hypertension group. It could be concluded that the
peptide of bakasang’s peptide extract has antihypertension effect (ACE-inhibitors), which was able to improve
histopathology and decrease protease activity of the cardiac tissue on hypertensive rats induced by DOCA-salt.
A Review on Noval Anticoagulants
Authors: Krishna Rakhi , Kumar Bhama Santhosh , Krishnan Surya , K N Anila , R. Lakshmi
Published: July 2017

The long term anticoagulation with warfarin is associated with various bleeding risks which led to the need for newer
drugs. With the developments in the anticoagulation therapy the newer agents like dabigatran, rivaroxaba, apixaban and
edoxaban have gained popularity with their more predictable pharmacological properties and reduced need for drug
monitoring.The United States of America has approved both rivaroxaban and dabigatran to be used in the treatment of
VTE (Venous Thrombo Embolism). In Europe and Canada dabigatran is prescribed after elective hip or knee arthroplasty
to prevent VTE. For a VTE prophylaxis after an orthopediac surgery and to prevent stroke in AF patient, Rivaroxaban is
recommended according to RECORD study. Edoxaban is highly effective in treatment of VTE and acts as a preventive
measure of stroke in NVAF (Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation). Through this article various pharmacological aspects,
dosing regimens, bleeding associated risk will be illustrated.
Project-Based Collaborative Writing In Teaching Grammar For Students With High And Low Motivation
Authors: Nurcahyoko Kunto
Published: July 2017

Although the body of literature has been supporting the use of Project-BasedCollaborative Writing (PBCW) to teach grammar, there is still huge urgency tomeasure its effectiveness for language learners with different motivation. This studyaims to investigate the effectiveness of PBCW, the effect of motivation in teachinggrammar for ten graders,and the interaction among techniques, motivation, andstudents’ grammar. The study employed a 2X2 factorial research design involving 48students in two experimental groups and two control groups. The samples were dividedinto students with high and low motivation group. The data were collected by usingpretest and posttest techniques. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was usedfor analyzing the data. The result showsthat project-based collaborative writing andcollaborative learning techniques are more effective to be used to teach grammar forstudents with high motivation as compared to students with low motivation. The resultalso reveals that motivation does not really affect the students’ grammar performance.However, there is still different improvement between students with low and highmotivation in their grammatical accuracy. Lastly, the analysis of variance shows thatthere is no interaction among students’ motivation, techniques, and students’ grammarwith the level of significance at 0.934. The study suggests that teachers must be able toconsider the presence of both variables in teaching and learning, especially to teachgrammatical accuracy.Keywords : Project-based collaborative learning (PBCW), collaborative learning, highand low motivation, grammar
Evaluation of Right-of-Way Transitions at Signalized Intersections: Implications of Driver Behavior for Conflicting Through Movements
Authors: Abadi Masoud Ghodrat , Jashami Hisham , McCrea Sarah Anne , Hurwitz David S.
Published: July 2017

To improve traffic safety at signalized intersections, driver behavior associated with right-of-way transitions at signalized intersections must be quantified carefully. Video data from five intersections across Oregon were collected and transcribed; a total of 149 h corresponded to 3,474 vehicles responding to a circular yellow (CY) indication and 731 vehicles responding to a circular red (CR) indication. A mixed logit model was used to evaluate driver responses to CY and CR indications. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the characteristics of red light runners (RLRs). Sufficiency of the red clearance interval was evaluated by considering the interactions of RLRs with vehicles on the conflicting approach. Developed models indicated that a 1-s increase in red time per cycle decreased the probability that a car would stop in response to a CY indication (by 41.4%) or a CR indication (by 9.0%). However, an increase in red time decreased the required duration of the red clearance interval. A 1-s red clearance interval generally was adequate for passenger cars, light trucks, and trucks at intersections up to 80 ft wide and at intersections with a red time of at least 60 s per cycle but rarely was sufficient for semitrailers in wider intersections with shorter red times. This observation is critical because semitrailers were more likely to be RLRs than were other vehicle types.
Historical Fragments’ Mobile Echo
Authors: Bell Susan E. , Davis Kathy
Published: July 2017

Translocation – Transformation is an ambitious contribution to the subject
of mobility. Materially, it interlinks seemingly disparate objects into a surprisingly
unified exhibition on mobile histories and heritages: twelve bronze
zodiac heads, silk and bamboo creatures, worn life vests, pressed Pu-erh tea,
thousands of broken antique teapot spouts, and an ancestral wooden temple
from the Ming dynasty (1368–1644) used by a tea-trading family. Historically
and politically, the exhibition engages Chinese stories from the third
century BCE, empires in eighteenth-century Austria and China, the Second
Opium War in the nineteenth century, the Chinese Cultural Revolution of the
mid-twentieth century, and today’s global refugee crisis.
Development of a Test Track for Driverless Cars: Vehicle Design, Track Configuration, and Liability Considerations
Authors: Szalay Zsolt , Tettamanti Tamás , Esztergár-Kiss Domokos , Varga István , Bartolini Cesare
Published: July 2017

The Research Center for Autonomous Road Vehicles (RECAR) was founded in 2015 upon the initiative of the Faculty of Transportation Engineering and Vehicle Engineering of Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The research center is supported by industrial partners and other academic partners targeting research and educational purposes. In complement to this project, the construction of a new automotive test track is also under development especially for autonomous road vehicle testing serving as automotive proving ground in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary. Accordingly, an intensive research has been started in RECAR center in the field of autonomous vehicle technology. The paper’s goal is to share the main practical and methodological experiences with the scientific audience as well as the industrial sector. Based on the initial research actions we intend to enlighten the upcoming research challenges of driverless vehicles and automated intelligent transport system. Basically, three main topics are concerned. Firstly, the main issues concerning autonomous vehicle research are summarized. Secondly, the requirements for autonomous test track design are concluded. Thirdly, the legal questions that emerge with the appearance of driverless vehicles are investigated, especially concerning liability.
MYC-Driven Pathways in Breast Cancer Subtypes
Authors: Fallah Yassi , Brundage Janetta , Allegakoen Paul , Shajahan-Haq Ayesha N.
Published: July 2017

The transcription factor MYC (MYC proto-oncogene, bHLH transcription factor) is an essential signaling hub in multiple cellular processes that sustain growth of many types of cancers. MYC regulates expression of RNA, both protein and non-coding, that control central metabolic pathways, cell death, proliferation, differentiation, stress pathways, and mechanisms of drug resistance. Activation of MYC has been widely reported in breast cancer progression. Breast cancer is a complex heterogeneous disease and treatment options are primarily guided by histological and biochemical evaluations of the tumors. Based on biochemical markers, three main breast cancer categories are ER+ (estrogen receptor alpha positive), HER2+ (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive), and TNBC (triple-negative breast cancer; estrogen receptor negative, progesterone receptor negative, HER2 negative). MYC is elevated in TNBC compared with other cancer subtypes. Interestingly, MYC-driven pathways are further elevated in aggressive breast cancer cells and tumors that display drug resistant phenotype. Identification of MYC target genes is essential in isolating signaling pathways that drive tumor development. In this review, we address the role of MYC in the three major breast cancer subtypes and highlight the most promising leads to target MYC functions.
Profitability of Residential Battery Energy Storage Combined with Solar Photovoltaics
Authors: Goebel Christoph , Cheng Vicky , Jacobsen Hans-Arno
Published: July 2017

Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries are increasingly being considered as bulk energy storage in grid applications. One such application is residential energy storage combined with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to enable higher self-consumption rates, which has become financially more attractive recently due to decreasing feed-in subsidies. Although residential energy storage solutions are commercially mature, it remains unclear which system configurations and circumstances, including aggregator-based applications such as the provision of ancillary services, lead to profitable consumer investments. Therefore, we conduct an extensive simulation study that is able to jointly capture these aspects. Our results show that, at current battery module prices, even optimal system configurations still do not lead to profitable investments into Li-Ion batteries if they are merely used as a buffer for solar energy. The first settings in which they will become profitable, as prices are further declining, will be larger households at locations with higher average levels of solar irradiance. If the batteries can be remote-controlled by an aggregator to provide overnight negative reserve, their profitability increases significantly.
Is the Grass Always Greener in Suburban Neighborhoods? Outdoors Play in Suburban and Inner-City Neighborhoods
Authors: Moran Mika R. , Plaut Pnina , Merom Dafna
Published: July 2017

Children’s outdoors play (OP) is an important source of physical activity that has been decreasing in recent years due to changes in neighborhood design, parent safety concerns and child sedentary leisure. However, few studies examined such determinants from children’s perspectives. This study explores environmental and socio-cultural aspects of children’s OP using a qualitative and quantitative approach. Data was collected in two phases: (1) a survey on OP and related variables among 5th and 6th graders (10–12 years old) (n = 573); and (2) a mapping activity and semi-structured interview among a subsample of the survey (n = 80). The most common locations for routine OP were parks (40%) followed by public facilities (26%) and streets (17%). OP was significantly associated with perceived environment, independent mobility and gender, but not with neighborhood type. Inner-city participants reported a higher number and greater variety of OP areas (23 vs. 14). Three main barriers of OP were identified—low quality and poorly maintained play areas, other people in public spaces, and social norms that undermine OP. Thus, in order to encourage routine OP, environmental change to create safe and attractive OP settings should be accompanied by community interventions to enhance social norms that are supportive of OP.
Biocompatibility of Four Common Orthopedic Biomaterials Following a High-Salt Diet: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Lecocq Mathieu , Bernard Cécile , Felix Marie , Linares Jean-Marc , Chaves-Jacob Julien , Decherchi Patrick , Dousset Erick
Published: July 2017

Nowadays, salt consumption appears to be drastically above the recommended level in industrialized countries. The health consequences of this overconsumption are heavy since high-salt intake induces cardiovascular disease, kidney dysfunction, and stroke. Moreover, harmful interaction may also occur with orthopaedic devices because overconsumption of salt reinforces the corrosive aspect of biological tissues and favors bone resorption process. In the present study, we aimed to assess the in vivo effect of three weeks of a high-salt diet, associated (or not) with two weeks of the neuro-myoelectrostimulation (NMES) rehabilitation program on the biocompatibility of four biomaterials used in the manufacture of arthroplasty implants. Thus, two non-metallic (PEEK and Al2O3) and two metallic (Ti6Al4V and CrCo) compounds were implanted in the rat tibial crest, and the implant-to-bone adhesion and cell viability of two surrounded muscles, the Flexor Digitorum (FD) and Tibialis Anterior (TA), were assessed at the end of the experiment. Results indicated lower adhesion strength for the PEEK implant compared to other biomaterials. An effect of NMES and a high-salt diet was only identified for Al2O3 and Ti6Al4V implants, respectively. Moreover, compared to a normal diet, a high-salt diet induced a higher number of dead cells on both muscles for all biomaterials, which was further increased for PEEK, Al2O3, and CrCo materials with NMES application. Finally, except for Ti6Al4V, NMES induced a higher number of dead cells in the directly stimulated muscle (FD) compared to the indirectly stimulated one (TA). This in vivo experiment highlights the potential harmful effect of a high-salt diet for people who have undergone arthroplasty, and a rehabilitation program based on NMES.
Rapamycin Maintains the Chondrocytic Phenotype and Interferes with Inflammatory Cytokine Induced Processes
Authors: Luna-Preitschopf Andrea De , Zwickl Hannes , Nehrer Stefan , Hengstschläger Markus , Mikula Mario
Published: July 2017

Osteoarthritis (OA) is hallmarked by a progressive degradation of articular cartilage. Besides risk factors including trauma, obesity or genetic predisposition, inflammation has a major impact on the development of this chronic disease. During the course of inflammation, cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-1β are secreted by activated chondrocytes as well as synovial cells and stimulate the production of other inflammatory cytokines and matrix degrading enzymes. The mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin is a clinical approved immunosuppressant and several studies also verified its chondroprotective effects in OA. However, the effect of blocking the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex (mTORC)1 on the inflammatory status within OA is not well studied. Therefore, we aimed to investigate if inhibition of mTORC1 by rapamycin can preserve and sustain chondrocytes in an inflammatory environment. Patient-derived chondrocytes were cultured in media supplemented with or without the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin. To establish an inflammatory environment, either TNF-α or IL-1β was added to the media (=OA-model). The chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of rapamycin were evaluated using sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) release assay, Caspase 3/7 activity assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay and quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blocking mTORC1 by rapamycin reduced the release and therefore degradation of sGAGs, which are components of the extracellular matrix secreted by chondrocytes. Furthermore, blocking mTORC1 in OA chondrocytes resulted in an enhanced expression of the main chondrogenic markers. Rapamycin was able to protect chondrocytes from cell death in an OA-model shown by reduced Caspase 3/7 activity and diminished LDH release. Furthermore, inhibition of mTORC1 preserved the chondrogenic phenotype of OA chondrocytes, but also reduced inflammatory processes within the OA-model. This study highlights that blocking mTORC1 is a new and promising approach for treating OA. Low side effects make rapamycin an attractive implementation to existing therapeutic strategies. We showed that rapamycin’s chondroprotective property might be due to an interference with IL-1β triggered inflammatory processes.
Ethyl 2-[2-(4-Nitrobenzoyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]acetate
Authors: Choi Sunyoung , Kim Sung-Gon
Published: July 2017

Ethyl 2-[2-(4-nitrobenzoyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]acetate was prepared in good yield and characterized by the aza-alkylation/intramolecular Michael cascade reaction of (E)-ethyl 3-[2-(tosylamino)phenyl]acrylate with 2-bromo-4′′-nitroacetophenone, followed by desulfonative dehydrogenation with 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) The structure of the newly synthesized compound was determined using 1H-,13C-NMR, IR and mass spectral data.
Thermoelectric Properties of Flexible PEDOT:PSS/Polypyrrole/Paper Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Li Jun , Du Yong , Jia Runping , Xu Jiayue , Shen Shirley
Published: July 2017

Flexible poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)/polypyrrole/paper (PEDOT:PSS/PPy/paper) thermoelectric (TE) nanocomposite films were prepared by a two-step method: first, PPy/paper nanocomposite films were prepared by an in situ chemical polymerization process, and second, PEDOT:PSS/PPy/paper TE composite films were fabricated by coating the as-prepared PPy/paper nanocomposite films using a dimethyl sulfoxide-doped PEDOT:PSS solution. Both the electrical conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient of the PEDOT:PSS/PPy/paper TE nanocomposite films were greatly enhanced from 0.06 S/cm to ~0.365 S/cm, and from 5.44 μV/K to ~16.0 μV/K at ~300 K, respectively, when compared to the PPy/paper TE nanocomposite films. The thermal conductivity of the PEDOT:PSS/PPy/paper composite film (0.1522 Wm−1K−1 at ~300 K) was, however, only slightly higher than that of the PPy/paper composite film (0.1142 Wm−1K−1 at ~300 K). As a result, the ZT value of the PEDOT:PSS/PPy/paper composite film (~1.85 × 10−5 at ~300 K) was significantly enhanced when compared to that of the PPy/paper composite film (~4.73 × 10−7 at ~300 K). The as-prepared nanocomposite films have great potential for application in flexible TE devices.
Recent Developments in Organophosphorus Flame Retardants Containing P-C Bond and Their Applications
Authors: Wendels Sophie , Chavez Thiebault , Bonnet Martin , Salmeia Khalifah , Gaan Sabyasachi
Published: July 2017

Organophosphorus compounds containing P-C bonds are increasingly developed as flame retardant additives due to their excellent thermal and hydrolytic stability and ease of synthesis. The latest development (since 2010) in organophosphorus flame retardants containing P-C bonds summarized in this review. In this review, we have broadly classified such phosphorus compounds based on the carbon unit linked to the phosphorus atom i.e., could be a part of either an aliphatic or an aromatic unit. We have only considered those published literature where a P-C bond was created as a part of synthetic strategy to make either an intermediate or a final organophosphorus compound with an aim to use it as a flame retardant. General synthetic strategies to create P-C bonds are briefly discussed. Most popular synthetic strategies used for developing P-C containing phosphorus based flame retardants include Michael addition, Michaelis–Arbuzov, Friedels–Crafts and Grignard reactions. In general, most flame retardant derivatives discussed in this review have been prepared via a one- to two-step synthetic strategy with relatively high yields greater than 80%. Specific examples of P-C containing flame retardants synthesized via suitable synthetic strategy and their applications on various polymer systems are described in detail. Aliphatic phosphorus compounds being liquids or low melting solids are generally applied in polymers via coatings (cellulose) or are incorporated in the bulk of the polymers (epoxy, polyurethanes) during their polymerization as reactive or non-reactive additives. Substituents on the P atoms and the chemistry of the polymer matrix greatly influence the flame retardant behavior of these compounds (condensed phase vs. the gas phase). Recently, aromatic DOPO based phosphinate flame retardants have been developed with relatively higher thermal stabilities (>250 °C). Such compounds have potential as flame retardants for high temperature processable polymers such as polyesters and polyamides. A vast variety of P-C bond containing efficient flame retardants are being developed; however, further work in terms of their economical synthetic methods, detailed impact on mechanical properties and processability, long term durability and their toxicity and environmental impact is much needed for their potential commercial exploitations.
Homogenate-assisted Vacuum-powered Bubble Extraction of Moso Bamboo Flavonoids for On-line Scavenging Free Radical Capacity Analysis
Authors: Sun Yinnan , Yang Kui , Cao Qin , Sun Jinde , Xia Yu , Wang Yinhang , Li Wei , Ma Chunhui , Liu Shouxin
Published: July 2017

A homogenate-assisted vacuum-powered bubble extraction (HVBE) method using ethanol was applied for extraction of flavonoids from Phyllostachys pubescens (P. pubescens) leaves. The mechanisms of homogenate-assisted extraction and vacuum-powered bubble generation were discussed in detail. Furthermore, a method for the rapid determination of flavonoids by HPLC was established. HVBE followed by HPLC was successfully applied for the extraction and quantification of four flavonoids in P. pubescens, including orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, and isovitexin. This method provides a fast and effective means for the preparation and determination of plant active components. Moreover, the on-line antioxidant capacity, including scavenging positive ion and negative ion free radical capacity of different fractions from the bamboo flavonoid extract was evaluated. Results showed that the scavenging DPPH˙ free radical capacity of vitexin and isovitexin was larger than that of isoorientin and orientin. On the contrary, the scavenging ABTS+˙free radical capacity of isoorientin and orientin was larger than that of vitexin and isovitexin.
Nanoporous Structure Formation in GaSb, InSb, and Ge by Ion Beam Irradiation under Controlled Point Defect Creation Conditions
Authors: Yanagida Yusuke , Oishi Tomoya , Miyaji Takashi , Watanabe Chiaki , Nitta Noriko
Published: July 2017

Ion beam irradiation-induced nanoporous structure formation was investigated on GaSb, InSb, and Ge surfaces via controlled point defect creation using a focused ion beam (FIB). ‎This paper compares the nanoporous structure formation under the same extent of point defect creation while changing the accelerating voltage and ion dose. Although the same number of point defects were created in each case, different structures were formed on the different surfaces. The depth direction density of the point defects was an important factor in this trend. The number of point defects required for nanoporous structure formation was 4 × 1022 vacancies/m2 at a depth of 18 nm under the surface, based on a comparison of similar nanoporous structure features in GaSb. The nanoporous structure formation by ion beam irradiation on GaSb, InSb, and Ge surfaces was controlled by the number and areal distribution of the created point defects.
Trends of Adherence to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern in Northern Italy from 2010 to 2016
Authors: Leone Alessandro , Battezzati Alberto , De Amicis Ramona , De Carlo Giulia , Bertoli Simona
Published: July 2017

Little information is available on the trends of adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP). This study investigates food consumption trends from 2010 to 2016 in subjects living in Northern Italy. A cross-sectional study of 8584 subjects enrolled between January 2010 and December 2016 was conducted. Socio-demographic, nutrition and lifestyle characteristics were collected. A 14-item questionnaire was used to evaluate adherence to MDP. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to evaluate the trends of and the determinants for the adherence to MDP. The overall prevalence of adherence to MDP was 14% and the trend remained constant over the six years. However, there was a marked increase in nuts consumption and a slight one in white meat consumption. Furthermore, we observed a decrease in the consumption of fruit, red meat, sweets and sugar-sweetened beverages and in the use of soffritto. Finally, higher education, being older, married, physically active, and ex-smoker was associated with greater adherence to MDP, whereas the prevalence of adherence was lower in the obese. In conclusion, the consumption of some Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean food groups changed over the six years. However, overall, the prevalence of adherence to MDP did not change. Additional strategies promoting healthy dietary habits are needed.
Preschool and School Meal Policies: An Overview of What We Know about Regulation, Implementation, and Impact on Diet in the UK, Sweden, and Australia
Authors: Lucas Patricia , Patterson Emma , Sacks Gary , Billich Natassja , Evans Charlotte
Published: July 2017

School meals make significant contributions to healthy dietary behaviour, at a time when eating habits and food preferences are being formed. We provide an overview of the approaches to the provision, regulation, and improvement of preschool and primary school meals in the UK, Sweden, and Australia, three countries which vary in their degree of centralisation and regulation of school meals. Sweden has a centralised approach; all children receive free meals, and a pedagogical approach to meals is encouraged. Legislation demands that meals are nutritious. The UK system is varied and decentralised. Meals in most primary schools are regulated by food-based standards, but preschool-specific meal standards only exist in Scotland. The UK uses food groups (starchy foods, fruit and vegetables, proteins and dairy) in a healthy plate approach. Australian States and Territories all employ guidelines for school canteen food, predominantly using a “traffic light” approach outlining recommended and discouraged foods; however, most children bring food from home and are not covered by this guidance. The preschool standards state that food provided should be nutritious. We find that action is often lacking in the preschool years, and suggest that consistent policies, strong incentives for compliance, systematic monitoring, and an acknowledgement of the broader school eating environment (including home provided food) would be beneficial.
Lack of Additive Effects of Resveratrol and Energy Restriction in the Treatment of Hepatic Steatosis in Rats
Authors: Milton-Laskibar Iñaki , Aguirre Leixuri , Fernández-Quintela Alfredo , Rolo Anabela , Soeiro Teodoro João , Palmeira Carlos , Portillo María
Published: July 2017

The aims of the present study were to analyze the effect of resveratrol on liver steatosis in obese rats, to compare the effects induced by resveratrol and energy restriction and to research potential additive effects. Rats were initially fed a high-fat high-sucrose diet for six weeks and then allocated in four experimental groups fed a standard diet: a control group, a resveratrol-treated group, an energy restricted group and a group submitted to energy restriction and treated with resveratrol. We measured liver triacylglycerols, transaminases, FAS, MTP, CPT1a, CS, COX, SDH and ATP synthase activities, FATP2/FATP5, DGAT2, PPARα, SIRT1, UCP2 protein expressions, ACC and AMPK phosphorylation and PGC1α deacetylation. Resveratrol reduced triacylglycerols compared with the controls, although this reduction was lower than that induced by energy restriction. The mechanisms of action were different. Both decreased protein expression of fatty acid transporters, thus suggesting reduced fatty acid uptake from blood stream and liver triacylglycerol delivery, but only energy restriction reduced the assembly. These results show that resveratrol is useful for liver steatosis treatment within a balanced diet, although its effectiveness is lower than that of energy restriction. However, resveratrol is unable to increase the reduction in triacylglycerol content induced by energy restriction.
Country and Gender-Specific Achievement of Healthy Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines: Latent Class Analysis of 6266 University Students in Egypt, Libya, and Palestine
Authors: El Ansari Walid , Berg-Beckhoff Gabriele
Published: July 2017

Research on healthy behaviour such as physical activity and healthy nutrition and their combination is lacking among university students in Arab countries. The current survey assessed healthy nutrition, and moderate/vigorous physical activity (PA) of 6266 students in Egypt, Libya, and Palestine. We computed a nutrition guideline achievement index using WHO recommendation, as well as the achievement of PA recommendations using guidelines for adults of the American Heart Association guidelines. Latent class regression analysis identified homogenous groups of male and female students, based on their achievements of both guidelines. We examined associations between group membership and achievement of guidelines. A three-class solution model best fitted the data, generating three student Groups: “Healthy Eaters” (7.7% of females, 10.8% of males), “Physically Active” (21.7% of females, 25.8% of males), and “Low Healthy Behaviour” (70.6% of females, 63.4% of males). We did not observe a latent class that exhibited combined healthy behaviours (physically active and healthy eaters), and there were no major differences between countries. We observed a very low rate of healthy nutrition (≈10% of students achieved greater than four of the eight nutrition guidelines), with little gender differences across the countries. About 18–47% of students achieved the PA guidelines, depending on country and gender, more often among males. Few females achieved the PA guidelines, particularly in Libya and Palestine. Culturally adapted multi-behavioural interventions need to encourage healthy lifestyles, nutrition and PA behaviours. National policies need to promote active living while addressing cultural, geographic, and other barriers to young adults’ engagement in PA.
Influence of Genetic Variations in Selenoprotein Genes on the Pattern of Gene Expression after Supplementation with Brazil Nuts
Authors: Donadio Janaina , Rogero Marcelo , Cockell Simon , Hesketh John , Cozzolino Silvia
Published: July 2017

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for human health. Its beneficial effects are exerted by selenoproteins, which can be quantified in blood and used as molecular biomarkers of Se status. We hypothesize that the presence of genetic polymorphisms in selenoprotein genes may: (1) influence the gene expression of specific selenoproteins and (2) influence the pattern of global gene expression after Brazil nut supplementation. The study was conducted with 130 healthy volunteers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, who consumed one Brazil nut (300 μg/Se) a day for eight weeks. Gene expression of GPX1 and SELENOP and genotyping were measured by real-time PCR using TaqMan Assays. Global gene expression was assessed by microarray using Illumina HumanHT-12 v4 BeadChips. Brazil nut supplementation significantly increased GPX1 mRNA expression only in subjects with CC genotype at rs1050450 (p < 0.05). SELENOP mRNA expression was significantly higher in A-carriers at rs7579 either before or after supplementation (p < 0.05). Genotype for rs713041 in GPX4 affected the pattern of blood cell global gene expression. Genetic variations in selenoprotein genes modulated both GPX1 and SELENOP selenoprotein gene expression and global gene expression in response to Brazil nut supplementation.
Smart Poly(imidazoyl-l-lysine): Synthesis and Reversible Helix-to-Coil Transition at Neutral pH
Authors: Piedra-Arroni Estefania , Makni Fatma , Severac Laura , Stigliani Jean-Luc , Pratviel Geneviève , Bonduelle Colin
Published: July 2017

Polypeptide polymers can adopt natural protein secondary structures such as α-helices or β-sheets, and this unique feature is at the origin of some intriguing physico–chemical properties. In this work, we present how side chain imidazoylation of a poly(l-lysine) scaffold affords the preparation of poly(histidine) counterparts exhibiting α-helix conformation. This structuring behavior is reversible and can be controlled by means of pH and or temperature changes.
Microporous Polyurethane Thin Layer as a Promising Scaffold for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kucińska-Lipka Justyna , Gubanska Iga , Skwarska Anna
Published: July 2017

The literature describes that the most efficient cell penetration takes place at 200–500 µm depth of the scaffold. Many different scaffold fabrication techniques were described to reach these guidelines. One such technique is solvent casting particulate leaching (SC/PL). The main advantage of this technique is its simplicity and cost efficiency, while its main disadvantage is the scaffold thickness, which is usually not less than 3000 µm. Thus, the scaffold thickness is usually far from the requirements for functional tissue reconstruction. In this paper, we report a successful fabrication of the microporous polyurethane thin layer (MPTL) of 1 mm thick, which was produced using SC/PL technique combined with phase separation (PS). The obtained MPTL was highly porous (82%), had pore size in the range of 65–426 µm and scaffold average pore size was equal to 154 ± 3 µm. Thus, it can be considered a suitable scaffold for tissue engineering purpose, according to the morphology criterion. Polyurethane (PUR) processing into MPTL scaffold caused significant decrease of contact angle from 78 ± 4° to 56 ± 6° and obtained MPTL had suitable hydrophilic characteristic for mammalian cells growth and tissue regeneration. Mechanical properties of MPTL were comparable to the properties of native tissues. As evidenced by biotechnological examination the MPTL were highly biocompatible with no observed apparent toxicity on mouse embryonic NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells. Performed studies indicated that obtained MPTL may be suitable scaffold candidate for soft TE purposes such as blood vessels.
Traceability of On-Machine Tool Measurement: A Review
Authors: Mutilba Unai , Gomez-Acedo Eneko , Kortaberria Gorka , Olarra Aitor , Yagüe-Fabra Jose
Published: July 2017

Nowadays, errors during the manufacturing process of high value components are not acceptable in driving industries such as energy and transportation. Sectors such as aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, nuclear power, large science facilities or wind power need complex and accurate components that demand close measurements and fast feedback into their manufacturing processes. New measuring technologies are already available in machine tools, including integrated touch probes and fast interface capabilities. They provide the possibility to measure the workpiece in-machine during or after its manufacture, maintaining the original setup of the workpiece and avoiding the manufacturing process from being interrupted to transport the workpiece to a measuring position. However, the traceability of the measurement process on a machine tool is not ensured yet and measurement data is still not fully reliable enough for process control or product validation. The scientific objective is to determine the uncertainty on a machine tool measurement and, therefore, convert it into a machine integrated traceable measuring process. For that purpose, an error budget should consider error sources such as the machine tools, components under measurement and the interactions between both of them. This paper reviews all those uncertainty sources, being mainly focused on those related to the machine tool, either on the process of geometric error assessment of the machine or on the technology employed to probe the measurand.
Rapid ELISA Using a Film-Stack Reaction Field with Micropillar Arrays
Authors: Suzuki Yuma , Morioka Kazuhiro , Ohata Soichiro , Shimizu Tetsuhide , Nakajima Hizuru , Uchiyama Katsumi , Yang Ming
Published: July 2017

A film-stack reaction field with a micropillar array using a motor stirrer was developed for the high sensitivity and rapid enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reaction. The effects of the incubation time of a protein (30 s, 5 min, and 10 min) on the fluorescence intensity in ELISAs were investigated using a reaction field with different micropillar array dimensions (5-µm, 10-µm and 50-µm gaps between the micropillars). The difference in fluorescence intensity between the well with the reaction field of 50-µm gap for the incubation time of 30 s and the well without the reaction field with for incubation time of 10 min was 6%. The trend of the fluorescence intensity in the gap between the micro pillars in the film-stack reaction field was different between the short incubation time and the long incubation time. The theoretical analysis of the physical parameters related with the biomolecule transport indicated that the reaction efficiency defined in this study was the dominant factor determining the fluorescence intensity for the short incubation time, whereas the volumetric rate of the circulating flow through the space between films and the specific surface area were the dominant factors for the long incubation time.
Candle Soot Coating for Latent Fingermark Enhancement on Various Surfaces
Authors: Wei Qianhui , Zhu Yu , Liu Shouliang , Gao Yongjie , Li Xiaolong , Shi Mi , Zhang Xueji , Zhang Meiqin
Published: July 2017

We demonstrate a facile method termed candle soot coating (CSC) for fast developing latent fingermarks (LFMs) on various kinds of surfaces (glass, ceramic, metal, paper and adhesive tape). The CSC method can be considered as simple, fast, and low-cost as well as providing high contrast for LFM visualization in potential forensic applications.