bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tackling Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Tongue in a 76 Year Old Man: A Case Report
Authors: Tengku Shaeran Tengku Aszraf , Rahman Shaifulizan Abdul , Pohchi Abdullah , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: December 2015

The growing geriatric population should be given a chance to fulfill their late age in the best way possible, including those affected with head and neck malignancies. This report describes about a 76 year old man with squamous cell carcinoma of tongue managed with the typical cancer treatment modes and shown a good outcome.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.413-416
Rationale and methodology for a population-based study of diabetes and common eye diseases in a rural area in Bangladesh: Bangladesh Population based Diabetes and Eye Study (BPDES)
Authors: Chakrabarti Rahul , Finger Robert P , Lamoureux Ecosse , Islam M Tauhidul , Dirani Mohamed , Bhuiyan Alauddin , Islam Silvia Z , Wahab Mohamed A , Islam Fakir M Amirul
Published: December 2015

Objectives: The purpose of this study were (i) to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) and impact of socioeconomic factors upon the prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes (ii) compute a diabetes risk score and (iii) estimate the undiagnosed prevalence of hypertension amongst a large adult population in rural Bangladesh. Methods/design: A sample of 3104 adults aged ?30 years were interviewed from a cluster sample of 18 villages in the Banshgram Union of the Narail District, Bangladesh. Each participant was interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire that assessed participant knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) regarding diabetes, its risk factors, complications and management. Data on demographic details, education, socioeconomic status, medical history, dietary and lifestyle behavior was obtained. Fasting capillary glucose, blood pressure, presenting vision and anthropometric parameters were measured. Participants were stratified into those without diabetes, pre-diabetes, and diagnosed diabetes (known and newly diagnosed). The association of KAP components and other risk factors with diabetes status was assessed. Logistic regression analysis allowed for the development of a non-invasive risk-stratification tool to be developed and implemented for the rural Bangladeshi community. Multinomial logistic regression was applied to report the associations of risk factors with the severity of hypertension. Results and discussion: In Banshgram, over 95% people had not undergone any previous diabetes screening. Baseline demographics estimated the prevalence of diabetes in the sample was 3.2% (n=99). 47% of participants had no formal education. Whilst there is literature on the prevalence of diabetes in urban and semi-urban Bangladesh there is a paucity of evidence examining the impact of KAP of diabetes amongst the general community. We believe that the BPDES has developed a methodology to provide new evidence to guide health policy and targeted population-based interventions in these rural areas.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.367-375
Electrochemical Behaviour of Dihydroxybenzene Isomers at Glassy Carbon Electrode in Different Electrolytic Media
Authors: Rahman Md Toufiqur , Hossain Md Uzzal , Ehsan MQ
Published: December 2015

Electrochemical behaviour of catechol, hydroquinone and resorcinol was investigated in KCl, acetate buffer and phosphate buffer at glassy carbon electrod using cyclic voltammetry. The results imply that the glassy carbon electrode exhibited a synergistic and excellent electrocatalytic effect on the redox behaviors of the benzenediols. Catechol and hydroquinone show one pair of redox peaks in acetate and phosphate buffer but two pairs of redox peaks in KCl. In all cases the redox process is quasireversible. Resorcinol behaves almost irreversibly in all three electrolytic media. Good linear relationships were obtained between the peak currents and the concentrations of benzenediols. The electrochemical process in all the isomers was controlled by diffusion process.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 2, 135-146, 2015
Conjugated Platinum-Poly-Ynes with extended Arylene Ethynylenes
Authors: Naher Masnun , Mehdi Shawon Shahriar , Ahmed Muhammad Kausar , Rahman Muhammad Mostafijur , Khan Mohammad Mizanur Rahman , Younus Muhammad
Published: December 2015

The platinum-poly-yne polymers poly[trans-bis(tri-n-butylphosphine) platinum-poly (4,4´- diethynylenearylene)] (arylene = biphenylene 3 and anthracene 4) were synthesized by the condensation reaction between poly(diethynylenearylene) (arylene = biphenylene 1 and anthracene 2) and trans-[(PnBu3)2PtCl2] in diisopropyl amine and dichloromethane under nitrogen atmosphere in the presence of CuI catalyst. The newly synthesized platinum containing poly-yne polymers exhibit good solubility in common organic solvents. These metal linked polymers were characterized by IR, 1H NMR and 31P NMR spectroscopy.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 2, 195-202, 2015
A comparative study on tissue response under the ridgelap and modified ridgelap pontic
Authors: Khan Md Ali Afzal , Rahman Mahabubur , Islam Kazi Ziaul , Mohsina Newaz , Iqbal Md Ashif , Jahan Mohammed Shahed
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study is to compare the tissue response between the ridgelap pontic and modified ridgelap pontic. Total patients were 40. The fixed prosthesis were cemented by temporary cementing material. After providing the treatment, instruction on maintenance of prosthesis. Patients were visited and studied after 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 6 months to observe the condition of tissue response beneath pontic. The following necessary data were collected in respect of the condition of tissue beneath the pontic, color of gingiva. The modified ridgelap pontic is better than ridgelap pontic regarding tissue response. The tissue response with the ridgelap surface of the pontic of fixed partial denture in 1st molar missing tooth enhanced the condition of the mucous membrane beneath the tissue surface of the pontic, condition of the abutment tooth, between ridge surface of the pontic and mucosa overlying the edentulous ridge achieved better success regarding fixed partial denture.Update Dent. Coll. j: 2015; 5 (1): 15-20
Pyogenic granuloma-a 19 months follow up case report
Authors: Iqbal Md Ashif , Mohol Jesmin , Rahman Md Saifur , Afrin Fayeza
Published: December 2015

Pyogenic granuloma is one of the inflammatory hyperplasia seen in the oral cavity. This term is a misnomer because the lesion is unrelated to infection and in reality arises in response to various stimuli such as low- grade local irritation, traumatic injury or hormonal factors. Clinically, oral pyogenic granuloma is a smooth or lobulated exophytic lesion manifesting as small, red erythematous papules on a pedunculated or sometimes sessile base, which is usually hemorrhagic. The surface ranges from pink to red to purple, depending on the age of the lesion. Because of the high frequency of pyogenic granuloma in the oral cavity, especially during pregnancy, and necessity for proper diagnosis and treatment, a complete information and investigations about this lesion, in addition its treatment is presented. The study emphasizes the clinical follow-up after the treatment of patients that present pyogenic granuloma. Follow-up over 19 months of surgical procedures demonstrated the maintenance of a periodontal health decreases the chances of recurrence.Update Dent. Coll. j: 2015; 5 (1): 26-29
Replantation of an avulsed permanent anterior tooth
Authors: Sheikha Md Abdul Hannan , Karim Fahd A A , Sultana Asma , Chowdhury Tazdik G , Shikder AHM Zakir Hossain , Alam Md Shamsul
Published: December 2015

This case report describes a case of avulsed left maxillary central incisor tooth which was replanted in the dental office. The tooth was gently rinsed of any debris and placed in normal saline during the examination and preparation of the replantation socket. The tooth was replanted and functionally splinted. The following week the tooth was opened for pulp extirpation and placement of calcium hydroxide. Two weeks later, the root canal was filled with gutta-percha and zinc oxide eugenol sealer, and the access cavity was restored with a bonded composite restoration; the splint was removed. Two year clinical and radiological follow up of the case showed ankylosis and infraocclusion of the replanted toothUpdate Dent. Coll. j: 2015; 5 (1): 30-34
Selective Production of Aromatics from 2-Octanol on Zinc Ion-Exchanged MFI Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Iwamoto Masakazu , Takezawa Ryota , Morimoto Masao
Published: December 2015

The aromatization of 2-octanol derived from castor oil as a byproduct in the formation of sebacic acid was investigated on various zeolite catalysts. Zn ion-exchanged MFI (ZSM-5) zeolites with small silica/alumina ratios and zinc contents of 0.5 to 2.0 wt. % were determined to exhibit good and stable activity for the reaction at 623 to 823 K. The yield of aromatics was 62% at 773 K and the space velocity 350 to 1400 h−1. The temperature and contact time dependences of the product distributions indicated the reaction pathways of 2-octanol→dehydration to 2-octene→decomposition to C5 and C3 compounds→further decomposition to small alkanes and alkenes→aromatization with dehydrogenation. Alcohols with carbon numbers of 5 to 8 exhibited similar distributions of products compared to 2-octanol, while corresponding carbonyl compounds demonstrated different reactivity.
Processes Prior and during the Early 18th Century Irish Famines—Weather Extremes and Migration
Authors: Engler Steven , Werner Johannes
Published: December 2015

This paper advances the current debates on famine and famine history, with a focus on the first half of the 18th century in Ireland. Ireland was often hit by severe famines and two of them, specifically the famines of 1728–1729 and 1740–1741, are at the center of this article. The analysis of those famines will show the relevance of weather extremes as one driver in the functional chain of famines. Analyzing the linkage between weather extremes and social, political and economic vulnerabilities of the society further enhances the debate on past famines. Additionally, this paper focuses on the migration flows in the context of both Irish famines. These migration flows lay the foundation for the migration patterns during the “Great Irish Famine” of 1845–1852.
Exact Likelihood Calculation under the Infinite Sites Model
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Futschik Andreas , Vogl Claus
Published: December 2015

A key parameter in population genetics is the scaled mutation rate θ = 4 N μ , where N is the effective haploid population size and μ is the mutation rate per haplotype per generation. While exact likelihood inference is notoriously difficult in population genetics, we propose a novel approach to compute a first order accurate likelihood of θ that is based on dynamic programming under the infinite sites model without recombination. The parameter θ may be either constant, i.e., time-independent, or time-dependent, which allows for changes of demography and deviations from neutral equilibrium. For time-independent θ, the performance is compared to the approach in Griffiths and Tavaré’s work “Simulating Probability Distributions in the Coalescent” (Theor. Popul. Biol. 1994, 46, 131–159) that is based on importance sampling and implemented in the “genetree” program. Roughly, the proposed method is computationally fast when n × θ < 100 , where n is the sample size. For time-dependent θ ( t ) , we analyze a simple demographic model with a single change in θ ( t ) . In this case, the ancestral and current θ need to be estimated, as well as the time of change. To our knowledge, this is the first accurate computation of a likelihood in the infinite sites model with non-equilibrium demography.
Dimensional Quantization and the Resonance Concept of the Low-Threshold Field Emission
Authors: Fursey Georgy , Konorov Pavel , Pavlov Boris , Yafyasov Adil
Published: December 2015

We present a brief critical review of modern theoretical interpretations of the low-threshold field emission phenomenon for metallic electrodes covered with carbon structures, taking the latest experiments into consideration, and confirming the continuity of spectrum of resonance states localized on the interface of the metallic body of the cathode and the carbon cover. Our proposal allowed us to interpret the double maxima of the emitted electron’s distribution on full energy. The theoretical interpretation is presented in a previous paper which describes the (1 + 1) model of a periodic 1D continuous interface. The overlapping of the double maxima may be interpreted taking into account a 2D superlattice periodic structure of the metal-vacuum interface, while the energy of emitted electrons lies on the overlapping spectral gaps of the interface 2D periodic lattice.
Strategies for Reducing the Start-up Operation of Microbial Electrochemical Treatments of Urban Wastewater
Authors: Borjas Zulema , Ortiz Juan , Aldaz Antonio , Feliu Juan , Esteve-Núñez Abraham
Published: December 2015

Microbial electrochemical technologies (METs) constitute the core of a number of emerging technologies with a high potential for treating urban wastewater due to a fascinating reaction mechanism—the electron transfer between bacteria and electrodes to transform metabolism into electrical current. In the current work, we focus on the model electroactive microorganism Geobacter sulfurreducens to explore both the design of new start-up procedures and electrochemical operations. Our chemostat-grown plug and play cells, were able to reduce the start-up period by 20-fold while enhancing chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal by more than 6-fold during this period. Moreover, a filter-press based bioreactor was successfully tested for both acetate-supplemented synthetic wastewater and real urban wastewater. This proof-of-concept pre-pilot treatment included a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) followed in time by a microbial fuel cell (MFC) to finally generate electrical current of ca. 20 A·m−2 with a power of 10 W·m−2 while removing 42 g COD day−1·m−2. The effective removal of acetate suggests a potential use of this modular technology for treating acetogenic wastewater where Geobacter sulfurreducens outcompetes other organisms.
Determinants of Individual Level Satisfaction with Community Based Natural Resources Management: A Case of Five Communities in Namibia
Authors: Muyengwa Shylock
Published: December 2015

Using a logistic regression model, this paper examines key factors that influence individual support for communal conservancies in Namibia. It tests the hypothesis that if individuals are compensated for their wildlife related losses, they are more likely to support community based wildlife management projects. Data for this study were collected from 472 members of five conservancies in the Caprivi Region of Namibia. Respondents were selected through convenience sampling. The key findings are that receiving meat, activity during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and being a member of a specific conservancy are the key predictors of satisfaction with the conservancy among the respondents. On the other hand, cash and jobs have no significant impact on individual attitudes toward communal conservancies. Based on these findings, the paper argues that the focus on incentives omits broader factors that motivate individuals to participate in community-based conservation.
Wall-to-Wall Forest Mapping Based on Digital Surface Models from Image-Based Point Clouds and a NFI Forest Definition
Authors: Waser Lars , Fischer Christoph , Wang Zuyuan , Ginzler Christian
Published: December 2015

Forest mapping is an important source of information for assessing woodland resources and a key issue for any National Forest Inventory (NFI). In the present study, a detailed wall-to-wall forest cover map was generated for all of Switzerland, which meets the requirement of the Swiss NFI forest definition. The workflow is highly automated and based on digital surface models from image-based point clouds of airborne digital sensor data. It fully takes into account the four key criteria of minimum tree height, crown coverage, width, and land use. The forest cover map was validated using almost 10,000 terrestrial and stereo-interpreted NFI plots, which verified 97% agreement overall. This validation implies different categories such as five production regions, altitude, tree type, and distance to the forest border. Overall accuracy was lower at forest borders but increased with increasing distance from the forest border. Commission errors remained stable at around 10%, but increased to 17.6% at the upper tree line. Omission errors were low at 1%–10%, but also increased with altitude and mainly occurred at the upper tree line (19.7%). The main reasons for this are the lower image quality and the NFI height definition for forest which apparently excludes shrub forest from the mask. The presented forest mapping approach is superior to existing products due to its national coverage, high level of detail, regular updating, and implementation of the land use criteria.
Dietary Carotenoids and the Nervous System
Authors: Hammond Billy
Published: December 2015

This issue of Foods is focused on the general topic of carotenoids within the nervous system. The focus is on the effects of the xanthophylls on the central nervous system (CNS), reflecting the majority of work in this area. [...]
Evaluation and Source Apportionment of Heavy Metals (HMs) in Sewage Sludge of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) in Shanxi, China
Authors: Duan Baoling , Liu Fenwu , Zhang Wuping , Zheng Haixia , Zhang Qiang , Li Xiaomei , Bu Yushan
Published: December 2015

Heavy metals (HMs) in sewage sludge have become the crucial limiting factors for land use application. Samples were collected and analyzed from 32 waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) in the Shanxi Province, China. HM levels in sewage sludge were assessed. The multivariate statistical method principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to identify the sources of HMs in sewage sludge. HM pollution classes by geochemical accumulation index Igeo and correlation analyses between HMs were also conducted. HMs were arranged in the following decreasing order of mean concentration: Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > As > Hg > Cd; the maximum concentrations of all HMs were within the limit of maximum content permitted by Chinese discharge standard. Igeo classes of HMs pollution in order from most polluted to least were: Cu and Hg pollution were the highest; Cd and Cr pollution were moderate; Zn, As and Pb pollution were the least. Sources of HM contamination in sewage sludge were identified as three components. The primary contaminant source accounting for 35.7% of the total variance was identified as smelting industry, coking plant and traffic sources; the second source accounting for 29.0% of the total variance was distinguished as household and water supply pollution; the smallest of the three sources accounting for 16.2% of the total variance was defined as special industries such as leather tanning, textile manufacturing and chemical processing industries. Source apportionment of HMs in sewage sludge can control HM contamination through suggesting improvements in government policies and industrial processes.
An Environmentally Friendly Method for Testing Photocatalytic Inactivation of Cyanobacterial Propagation on a Hybrid Ag-TiO2 Photocatalyst under Solar Illumination
Authors: Chang Shu-Yu , Huang Winn-Jung , Lu Ben-Ren , Fang Guor-Cheng , Chen Yeah , Chen Hsiu-Lin , Chang Ming-Chin , Hsu Cheng-Feng
Published: December 2015

Cyanobacteria were inactivated under sunlight using mixed phase silver (Ag) and deposited titanium dioxide (TiO2) coated on the surface of diatomite (DM) as a hybrid photocatalyst (Ag-TiO2/DM). The endpoints of dose-response experiments were chlorophyll a, photosynthetic efficiency, and flow cytometry measurements. In vitro experiments revealed that axenic cultures of planktonic cyanobacteria lost their photosynthetic activity following photocatalyzed exposure to sunlight for more than 24 h. Nearly 92% of Microcystis aeruginosa cells lost their photosynthetic activity, and their cell morphology was severely damaged within 24 h of the reaction. Preliminary carbon-14 (14CO3−2) results suggest that the complete inactivation of cyanobacteria arises from damage to cell wall components (peroxidation). A small concomitant increase in cell wall disorder and a consequent decrease in cell wall functional groups increase the cell wall fluidity prior to cell lysis. A high dosage of Ag-TiO2/DM during photocatalysis increased the concentration of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) in the Microcystis aeruginosa suspension by up to approximately 260%. However, photocatalytic treatment had a small effect on the disinfection by-product (DBP) precursor, as revealed by only a slight increase in the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs).
Effects of Medium Temperature and Industrial By-Products on the Key Hardened Properties of High Performance Concrete
Authors: Safiuddin Md. , Raman Sudharshan , Zain Muhammad
Published: December 2015

The aim of the work reported in this article was to investigate the effects of medium temperature and industrial by-products on the key hardened properties of high performance concrete. Four concrete mixes were prepared based on a water-to-binder ratio of 0.35. Two industrial by-products, silica fume and Class F fly ash, were used separately and together with normal portland cement to produce three concrete mixes in addition to the control mix. The properties of both fresh and hardened concretes were examined in the laboratory. The freshly mixed concrete mixes were tested for slump, slump flow, and V-funnel flow. The hardened concretes were tested for compressive strength and dynamic modulus of elasticity after exposing to 20, 35 and 50 °C. In addition, the initial surface absorption and the rate of moisture movement into the concretes were determined at 20 °C. The performance of the concretes in the fresh state was excellent due to their superior deformability and good segregation resistance. In their hardened state, the highest levels of compressive strength and dynamic modulus of elasticity were produced by silica fume concrete. In addition, silica fume concrete showed the lowest level of initial surface absorption and the lowest rate of moisture movement into the interior of concrete. In comparison, the compressive strength, dynamic modulus of elasticity, initial surface absorption, and moisture movement rate of silica fume-fly ash concrete were close to those of silica fume concrete. Moreover, all concretes provided relatively low compressive strength and dynamic modulus of elasticity when they were exposed to 50 °C. However, the effect of increased temperature was less detrimental for silica fume and silica fume-fly ash concretes in comparison with the control concrete.
Graphene-Based Materials for Stem Cell Applications
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyung , Lee Taek , El-Said Waleed , Choi Jeong-Woo
Published: December 2015

Although graphene and its derivatives have been proven to be suitable for several biomedical applications such as for cancer therapy and biosensing, the use of graphene for stem cell research is a relatively new area that has only recently started to be investigated. For stem cell applications, graphene has been utilized by itself or in combination with other types of materials such as nanoparticles, nanofibers, and polymer scaffolds to take advantage of the several unique properties of graphene, such as the flexibility in size, shape, hydrophilicity, as well as its excellent biocompatibility. In this review, we will highlight a number of previous studies that have investigated the potential of graphene or its derivatives for stem cell applications, with a particular focus on guiding stem cell differentiation into specific lineages (e.g., osteogenesis, neurogenesis, and oligodendrogenesis), promoting stem cell growth, stem cell delivery/transplantation, and effective monitoring of their differentiation. We hope that this review promotes and accelerates the use of graphene-based materials for regenerative therapies, especially for stem cell-based approaches to cure various incurable diseases/disorders such as neurological diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease), stroke, spinal cord injuries, bone/cartilage defects, and cardiovascular diseases.
A Photolithographic Approach to Polymeric Microneedles Array Fabrication
Authors: Dardano Principia , Caliò Alessandro , Di Palma Vincenza , Bevilacqua Maria , Di Matteo Andrea , De Stefano Luca
Published: December 2015

In this work, two procedures for fabrication of polymeric microneedles based on direct photolithography, without any etching or molding process, are reported. Polyethylene glycol (average molecular weight 250 Da), casted into a silicone vessel and exposed to ultraviolet light (365 nm) through a mask, cross-links when added by a commercial photocatalyzer. By changing the position of the microneedles support with respect to the vessel, different shapes and lengths can be achieved. Microneedles from a hundred microns up to two millimeters have been obtained just tuning the radiation dose, by changing the exposure time (5–15 s) and/or the power density (9–18 mW/cm2) during photolithography. Different microneedle shapes, such as cylindrical, conic or lancet-like, for specific applications such as micro-indentation or drug delivery, are demonstrated.
Correction: Electrochemical Investigation of the Corrosion of Different Microstructural Phases of X65 Pipeline Steel under Saturated Carbon Dioxide Conditions. Materials 2015, 8, 2635–2649
Authors: Yang Yuanfeng , Joshi Gaurav , Akid Robert
Published: December 2015

In the published manuscript “Electrochemical Investigation of the Corrosion of Different Microstructural Phases of X65 Pipeline Steel under Saturated Carbon Dioxide Conditions. [...]
Effect of Different Manufacturing Methods on the Conflict between Porosity and Mechanical Properties of Spiral and Porous Polyethylene Terephthalate/Sodium Alginate Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Lou Ching-Wen , Huang Chien-Lin , Chen Chih-Kuang , Liu Chi-Fan , Wen Shih-Peng , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: December 2015

In order to solve the incompatibility between high porosity and mechanical properties, this study fabricates bone scaffolds by combining braids and sodium alginate (SA) membranes. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plied yarns are braided into hollow, porous three dimensional (3D) PET braids, which are then immersed in SA solution, followed by cross-linking with calcium chloride (CaCl2) and drying, to form PET bone scaffolds. Next, SA membranes are rolled and then inserted into the braids to form the spiral and porous PET/SA bone scaffolds. Samples are finally evaluated for surface observation, porosity, water contact angle, compressive strength, and MTT assay. The test results show that the PET bone scaffolds and PET/SA bone scaffolds both have good hydrophilicity. An increasing number of layers and an increasing CaCl2 concentration cause the messy, loose surface structure to become neat and compact, which, in turn, decreases the porosity and increases the compressive strength. The MTT assay results show that the cell viability of differing SA membranes is beyond 100%, indicating that the PET/SA bone scaffolds containing SA membranes are biocompatible for cell attachment and proliferation.
Damage Analysis of a Ferritic SiMo Ductile Cast Iron Submitted to Tension and Compression Loadings in Temperature
Authors: Hervas Isabel , Thuault Anthony , Hug Eric
Published: December 2015

Tensile and compression tests were carried out on a ductile cast iron for temperatures up to 1073 K. The damage caused inside and around graphite nodules was evaluated as a function of the local equivalent plastic strain by using microstructural quantifications. The mechanical properties are strongly dependent on a temperature above 773 K. Concerning tensile behavior, an evolutional law issued from the Gurson model representing the void growth as a function of the deformation and temperature was successfully employed. It is demonstrated that the strain state and the temperature have a strong influence on the void growth function. In the case of compression tests, the temperature has a weak influence on the nodule deformation for temperatures lower than 773 K, and the mechanical behavior is driven by the viscoplastic properties of the ferrite. For higher temperatures, the mechanical properties in compression are progressively modified, since graphite nodules tend to remain spherical, and ferrite grains are severely deformed. A synthesis of the damage mechanisms is proposed in the studied range of temperature and plastic strain. It appears that the graphite nodule aspect ratio can be used as an indicator of the deformation under compression loading for temperatures ranging from room temperature to 673 K.
In Vivo and In Vitro Toxicity Evaluation of Polyprenols Extracted from Ginkgo biloba L. Leaves
Authors: Wang Cheng-Zhang , Yuan Jiao-Jiao , Li Wen-Jun , Zhang Hong-Yu , Ye Jian-Zhong
Published: December 2015

Polyprenols of Ginkgo biloba L. leaves (GBP) are a new type of lipid with 14–24 isoprenyl units, which in humans have strong bioactivity like the dolichols. A large amount of work showed that GBP had good antibacterial activity and powerful protective effects against acute hepatic injury induced by carbon tetrachloride and alcohol, as well as antitumor activity, but the safety of GBP was not considered. The current study was designed to evaluate the toxicity of these polyprenols. Acute toxicity in mice was observed for 14 days after GBP oral dosing with 5, 7.5, 10, 15 and 21.5 g/kg body weight (b. wt.) Further, an Ames toxicity assessment was carried out by plate incorporation assay on spontaneous revertant colonies of TA97, TA98, TA100 and TA102, with GBP doses designed as 8, 40, 200, 1000 and 5000 μg/dish, and subchronic toxicity was evaluated in rats for 91 days at GBP doses of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg b. wt./day. The weight, food intake, hematological and biochemical indexes, the ratio of viscera/body weight, and histopathological examinations of tissue slices of organs were all investigated. The results showed that no animal behavior and appearance changes and mortality were seen during the observation period with 21.5 g/kg GBP dose in the acute toxicity test. Also, no mutagenicity effects were produced by GBP (mutation rate < 2) on the four standard Salmonella strains (p > 0.05) in the Ames toxicity test. Furthermore, the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of GBP was 2000 mg/kg for 91 days feeding of rats in the subchronic toxicity tests. Results also showed the hematological and biochemical indexes as well as histopathological examination changed within a small range, and all clinical observation indexes were normal. No other distinct impacts on cumulative growth of body weight, food intake and food utilization rate were discovered with GBP. No significant difference was discovered for the rats’ organ weight and the ratio of viscera to body weight (p > 0.05). Reversible pathological changes in the histopathological examinations of tissue slices of organs were not observed. GBP could therefore be considered as a safe material with minor side effects.
Contents Changes of Triterpenic Acids, Nucleosides, Nucleobases, and Saccharides in Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) Fruit During the Drying and Steaming Process
Authors: Guo Sheng , Duan Jin-Ao , Zhang Ying , Qian Dawei , Tang Yuping , Zhu Zhenhua , Wang Hanqing
Published: December 2015

Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba), a medicinal and edible plant, is widely consumed in Asian countries owing to the remarkable health activities of its fruits. To facilitate selection of the suitable processing method for jujube fruits, in this study their contents of triterpenic acids, nucleosides, nucleobases and saccharides after drying and steaming treatment were determined using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detector methods. The results showed that except for sucrose, the content levels of most analytes were increasing in the jujube fruits during drying treatment at 45 °C. The levels of cyclic nucleotides such as adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate and guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate, were significantly decreased after the fruits were steamed. Therefore, owing to the bioactivities of these components for human health, the dried fruits would be the better choice as medicinal material or functional food, and dried jujube fruit should not be further steamed.
Nutritional Solutions to Reduce Risks of Negative Health Impacts of Air Pollution
Authors: Péter Szabolcs , Holguin Fernando , Wood Lisa , Clougherty Jane , Raederstorff Daniel , Antal Magda , Weber Peter , Eggersdorfer Manfred
Published: December 2015

Air pollution worldwide has been associated with cardiovascular and respiratory morbidity and mortality, particularly in urban settings with elevated concentrations of primary pollutants. Air pollution is a very complex mixture of primary and secondary gases and particles, and its potential to cause harm can depend on multiple factors—including physical and chemical characteristics of pollutants, which varies with fine-scale location (e.g., by proximity to local emission sources)—as well as local meteorology, topography, and population susceptibility. It has been hypothesized that the intake of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients may ameliorate various respiratory and cardiovascular effects of air pollution through reductions in oxidative stress and inflammation. To date, several studies have suggested that some harmful effects of air pollution may be modified by intake of essential micronutrients (such as B vitamins, and vitamins C, D, and E) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Here, we review the existing literature related to the potential for nutrition to modify the health impacts of air pollution, and offer a framework for examining these interactions.
Zinc in Early Life: A Key Element in the Fetus and Preterm Neonate
Authors: Terrin Gianluca , Berni Canani Roberto , Di Chiara Maria , Pietravalle Andrea , Aleandri Vincenzo , Conte Francesca , De Curtis Mario
Published: December 2015

Zinc is a key element for growth and development. In this narrative review, we focus on the role of dietary zinc in early life (including embryo, fetus and preterm neonate), analyzing consequences of zinc deficiency and adequacy of current recommendations on dietary zinc. We performed a systematic search of articles on the role of zinc in early life. We selected and analyzed 81 studies. Results of this analysis showed that preservation of zinc balance is of critical importance for the avoidance of possible consequences of low zinc levels on pre- and post-natal life. Insufficient quantities of zinc during embryogenesis may influence the final phenotype of all organs. Maternal zinc restriction during pregnancy influences fetal growth, while adequate zinc supplementation during pregnancy may result in a reduction of the risk of preterm birth. Preterm neonates are at particular risk to develop zinc deficiency due to a combination of different factors: (i) low body stores due to reduced time for placental transfer of zinc; (ii) increased endogenous losses; and (iii) marginal intake. Early diagnosis of zinc deficiency, through the measurement of serum zinc concentrations, may be essential to avoid severe prenatal and postnatal consequences in these patients. Typical clinical manifestations of zinc deficiency are growth impairment and dermatitis. Increasing data suggest that moderate zinc deficiency may have significant subclinical effects, increasing the risk of several complications typical of preterm neonates (i.e., necrotizing enterocolitis, chronic lung disease, and retinopathy), and that current recommended intakes should be revised to meet zinc requirements of extremely preterm neonates. Future studies evaluating the adequacy of current recommendations are advocated.
Assessing the Nutritional Quality of Diets of Canadian Adults Using the 2014 Health Canada Surveillance Tool Tier System
Authors: Jessri Mahsa , Nishi Stephanie , L’Abbé Mary
Published: December 2015

The 2014 Health Canada Surveillance Tool (HCST) was developed to assess adherence of dietary intakes with Canada’s Food Guide. HCST classifies foods into one of four Tiers based on thresholds for sodium, total fat, saturated fat and sugar, with Tier 1 representing the healthiest and Tier 4 foods being the unhealthiest. This study presents the first application of HCST to assess (a) dietary patterns of Canadians; and (b) applicability of this tool as a measure of diet quality among 19,912 adult participants of Canadian Community Health Survey 2.2. Findings indicated that even though most of processed meats and potatoes were Tier 4, the majority of reported foods in general were categorized as Tiers 2 and 3 due to the adjustable lenient criteria used in HCST. Moving from the 1st to the 4th quartile of Tier 4 and “other” foods/beverages, there was a significant trend towards increased calories (1876 kcal vs. 2290 kcal) and “harmful” nutrients (e.g., sodium) as well as decreased “beneficial” nutrients. Compliance with the HCST was not associated with lower body mass index. Future nutrient profiling systems need to incorporate both “positive” and “negative” nutrients, an overall score and a wider range of nutrient thresholds to better capture food product differences.
Sensor-Aware Recognition and Tracking for Wide-Area Augmented Reality on Mobile Phones
Authors: Chen Jing , Cao Ruochen , Wang Yongtian
Published: December 2015

Wide-area registration in outdoor environments on mobile phones is a challenging task in mobile augmented reality fields. We present a sensor-aware large-scale outdoor augmented reality system for recognition and tracking on mobile phones. GPS and gravity information is used to improve the VLAD performance for recognition. A kind of sensor-aware VLAD algorithm, which is self-adaptive to different scale scenes, is utilized to recognize complex scenes. Considering vision-based registration algorithms are too fragile and tend to drift, data coming from inertial sensors and vision are fused together by an extended Kalman filter (EKF) to achieve considerable improvements in tracking stability and robustness. Experimental results show that our method greatly enhances the recognition rate and eliminates the tracking jitters.
Sustainable Trade Credit and Replenishment Policies under the Cap-And-Trade and Carbon Tax Regulations
Authors: Qin Juanjuan , Bai Xiaojian , Xia Liangjie
Published: December 2015

The paper considers the sustainable trade credit and inventory policies with demand related to credit period and the environmental sensitivity of consumers under the carbon cap-and-trade and carbon tax regulations. First, the decision models are constructed under three cases: without regulation, carbon cap-and-trade regulation, and carbon tax regulation. The optimal solutions of the retailer in the three cases are then discussed under the exogenous and endogenous credit periods. Finally, numerical analysis is conducted to obtain conclusions. The retailer shortens the trade credit period as the environmental sensitivity of the consumer is enhanced. The cap has no effects on the credit period decisions under the carbon cap-and-trade regulation. Carbon trade price and carbon tax have negative effects on the credit period. The retailer under carbon cap-and-trade regulation is more motivated to obey regulations than that under carbon tax regulation when carbon trade price equals carbon tax. Carbon regulations have better effects on carbon emission reduction than with exogenous credit term when the retailer has the power to decide with regards credit policies.
Sustainable Lake Basin Water Resource Governance in China: The Case of Tai Lake
Authors: Pu Zhengning , Wang Hui , Bian Haili , Fu Jiasha
Published: December 2015

China’s water pollution is severe and has a negative impact on its residents. Establishing an emissions trading mechanism will be helpful for reducing the pollution. However, the government in China controls the emission rights market. The “GDP Only” preference blocks equitable rules to address the externalities. To modify this distortion, we develop a multi-objective primary distribution model that optimizes economic efficiency, environmental contribution, and fairness. In addition, the geographical location of a company and the industry differential are two key factors that would affect the local government’s decision. According to the simulation results using data from Tai Lake in China, this model can effectively help to meet the political expectation that large-scale manufacturers with poor technology can take the initiative to reduce emissions through emission-rights distribution.
An Optimised Approach of Protecting and Sustaining Large Vehicle System
Authors: Saeed Adil , Khan Zulfiqar , Nazir Main
Published: December 2015

This article is a synopsis of our research and highlights the outcomes and its impact. It was conducted for the development of a sustainable approach to protect and sustain large vehicles in sheltered environment for their enhanced longevity. In this research, various modes of failures linked directly or indirectly to the structural ageing of large vehicles were identified, measured, and analysed. Based upon the research conducted, a frame-work with an objective to prolong the structural longevity cost effectively and to retard structural failures has been proposed.
Molecular Mechanisms of Lipoic Acid Protection against Aflatoxin B1-Induced Liver Oxidative Damage and Inflammatory Responses in Broilers
Authors: Ma Qiugang , Li Yan , Fan Yu , Zhao Lihong , Wei Hua , Ji Cheng , Zhang Jianyun
Published: December 2015

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) was evaluated in this study for its molecular mechanisms against liver oxidative damage and inflammatory responses induced by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Birds were randomly allocated into four groups with different diets for three weeks: a basal diet, a 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in a basal diet, a diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB1, and 300 mg/kg α-LA supplementation in a diet containing 74 μg/kg AFB1. In the AFB1 group, the expression of GSH-PX mRNA was down-regulated (p < 0.05), and the levels of lipid peroxide and nitric oxide were increased (p < 0.05) in the chicken livers compared to those of the control group. Additionally, the mRNA level of the pro-inflammatory factor interleukin-6 was up-regulated significantly (p < 0.05), the protein expressions of both the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 and the inducible nitric oxide synthase were enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) in the AFB1 group. All of these negative effects were inhibited by α-LA. These results indicate that α-LA may be effective in preventing hepatic oxidative stress, down-regulating the expression of hepatic pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as inhibiting NF-κB expression.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Breast Cancer Metastasis by Interleukin-8- and Interleukin-6-Dependent Induction of CD44+/CD24- Cells
Authors: Ma Fengxia , Chen Dandan , Chen Fang , Chi Ying , Han Zhibo , Feng Xiaoming , Li Xue , Han Zhongchao
Published: December 2015

Although emerging evidence links mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with cancer metastasis, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In the present study, we found that human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) promoted MCF-7 cell migration in vitro and metastasis in vivo. To explore the mechanisms, the characteristics of MCF-7 cells cocultured with UC-MSCs were assessed. The expression and secretion of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and IL-6 were induced in MCF-7 cells cocultured with UC-MSCs. However, neutralization of IL-8 or IL-6 secreted by UC-MSCs could attenuate the enhanced expression of IL-8 and IL-6 in MCF-7 cells cocultured with UC-MSCs, which subsequently alleviated the enhanced migration. Similar to UC-MSCs, exogenous human recombinant IL-8 or IL-6 also promoted IL-8 and IL-6 expression and MCF-7 cell migration. In addition to enhanced IL-8 and IL-6 expression, MCF-7 cells cocultured with UC-MSCs displayed enhanced mammosphere-forming ability and increased percentage of CD44+/CD24- cells. However, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was not observed in MCF-7 cells cocultured with UC-MSCs. Taken together, these results suggested that IL-8 and IL-6 secreted by UC-MSCs activated the autocrine IL-8 and IL-6 signaling in MCF-7 cells and induced CD44+/CD24- cells, which subsequently promoted MCF-7 cell migration in vitro and metastasis in vivo.
Extensive Characterization of Platelet Gel Releasate from Cord Blood in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Parazzi Valentina , Lavazza Cristiana , Boldrin Valentina , Montelatici Elisa , Pallotti Francesco , Marconi Maurizio , Lazzari Lorenza
Published: December 2015

Platelet gel derived from peripheral blood is widely applied in many clinical fields of surgery as biomaterial containing growth factors with high proliferative properties. In 2010, we studied and patented a platelet gel derived from cord blood. In this study, due to the crucial role of the factors released by the platelet gel, we first extended the characterization of its releasate. Using a wide proteomic array and splitting the two components of the releasate, that is, platelets and plasma, we have been able to study their growth factor content. Interestingly, we discovered high levels of hormones and molecules able to support tissue growth in the cord blood platelet gel releasate and, in addition, higher concentrations of several angiogenic factors if compared with the peripheral blood counterpart. On the contrary, the latter was much richer in inflammatory factors. The second aim of our work was to study the effects on cell culture, immunophenotype, and function of mesenchymal stem cells exposed to these two platelet gel releasates as substitute for the animal serum. Since our findings nicely show that the use of the peripheral versus the cord blood platelet gel releasate can differently influence the mesenchymal stem cell commitment, we can suggest that in addition to its peculiar angiogenic properties cord blood platelet gel releasate shows excellent proliferative properties as cell culture supplement.
Postglacial migration and adaptation for dispersal in pitch pine (Pinaceae)
Authors: Ledig F. Thomas , Smouse Peter E. , Hom John L.
Published: December 2015

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Variation in a species is a blend of adaptive, random, and migratory responses. Pitch pine (Pinus rigida), a highly variable eastern conifer, has occupied multiple glacial refugia, whose harsh conditions favored adaptations enhancing subsequent dispersal and recolonization of newly deglaciated sites. We assessed phenotypic diversity in long‐term growth trials to elucidate both the adaptations and likely refugia.

METHODS:

Pitch pine progeny from 31 areas were grown in common gardens in six locations, from eastern Massachusetts to Korea.

KEY RESULTS:

Survival increased with source latitude, but seedlings from southern latitudes were tallest in the first (postplanting) year, but that advantage dissipated in later years. Progeny from northern latitudes were precocious, highly fecund, had smaller seeds, and more seeds per cone. Seed mass decreased with latitude in both parents and progeny. Serotinous cones were notably common in the New Jersey Pine Plains and Acadia National Park. Various disease agents and frost burn exhibited latitudinal trends that were nonlinear, with a break in the regression slope at about 40°N latitude. Cluster analysis identified both northern and southern groups, largely split between unglaciated and deglaciated terrain, but with Acadia and the Pine Plains as unique outliers. Within the southern group, provenances were organized into contiguous subgroups, but geographic structure was less evident in the northern group.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present range of pitch pine was colonized by migrants from at least three different refugia, including at least one on the exposed continental shelf during the Last Glacial Maximum.