bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictions of the wetting of bentonite emplaced in a crystalline rock based on generic site characterization data
Authors: Baxter S. , Holton D. , Williams S. , Thompson S.
Published: September 2018

A geological disposal facility (GDF) is the widely accepted long-term solution for the management of higher-activity radioactive waste. It consists of an engineered facility constructed in a suitable host rock. The facility is designed to inhibit the release of radioactivity by using a system consisting of engineered and natural barriers. The engineered barriers include the wasteform, used to immobilize the waste, the waste disposal container and any buffer material used to protect the container. The natural barrier includes the rocks in which the facility is constructed. The careful design of this multi-barrier system enables the harmful effects of the radioactivity on humans and biota in the surface environment to be reduced to safe levels.

Bentonite is an important buffer material used as a component of a multi-barrier disposal system. For example, compacted bentonite rings and blocks are used to protect the copper container, used for the disposal of spent fuel, in the KBS-3 disposal system. As the bentonite saturates, through contact with groundwater from the host rock, it swells and provides a low hydraulic conductivity barrier, enabling the container to be protected from deleterious processes, such as corrosion. The characteristic swelling behaviour of bentonite is due to the presence of significant quantities of sodium montmorillonite.

Recently, there have been detailed
in situ
experiments designed to understand how bentonite performs under natural conditions. One such experiment is the Buffer–Rock Interaction Experiment (BRIE), performed at the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory near Oskarshamn in the SE of Sweden. This experiment is designed to further understand the wetting of bentonite from the groundwater flow in a fractured granite host rock.

In this paper, the observations from the BRIE are explained using an integrated model that is able to describe the saturation of bentonite emplaced in a heterogeneous fractured rock. It provides a framework to understand the key processes in both the rock and bentonite. The predictive capability of these models was investigated within the context of uncertainties in the data and the consequence for predictions of the wetting of emplaced bentonite. For example, to predict the wetting of emplaced bentonite requires an understanding of the distribution of fracture transmissivity intersecting the bentonite. A consequence of these findings is that the characterization of the fractured rock local to the bentonite is critical to understanding the subsequent wetting profiles. In particular, prediction of the time taken to achieve full saturation of bentonite using a simplified equivalent homogeneous description of the fractured host rock will tend to be too short.
NeMo
Authors: Plagge Mark , Carothers Christopher D. , Gonsiorowski Elsa , Mcglohon Neil
Published: September 2018

Neuromorphic computing is a broad category of non–von Neumann architectures that mimic biological nervous systems using hardware. Current research shows that this class of computing can execute data classification algorithms using only a tiny fraction of the power conventional CPUs require. This raises the larger research question:
How might neuromorphic computing be used to improve application performance, power consumption, and overall system reliability of future supercomputers?
To address this question, an open-source neuromorphic processor architecture simulator called
NeMo
is being developed. This effort will enable the design space exploration of potential heterogeneous compute systems that combine traditional CPUs, GPUs, and neuromorphic hardware. This article examines the design, implementation, and performance of
NeMo
. Demonstration of
NeMo
’s efficient execution using 2,048 nodes of an IBM Blue Gene/Q system, modeling 8,388,608 neuromorphic processing cores is reported. The peak performance of
NeMo
is just over ten billion events-per-second when operating at this scale.
Power in Numbers: Single-Cell RNA-Seq Strategies to Dissect Complex Tissues
Authors: Birnbaum Kenneth D.
Published: September 2018

The growing scale and declining cost of single-cell RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) now permit a repetition of cell sampling that increases the power to detect rare cell states, reconstruct developmental trajectories, and measure phenotype in new terms such as cellular variance. The characterization of anatomy and developmental dynamics has not had an equivalent breakthrough since groundbreaking advances in live fluorescent microscopy. The new resolution obtained by single-cell RNA-seq is a boon to genetics because the novel description of phenotype offers the opportunity to refine gene function and dissect pleiotropy. In addition, the recent pairing of high-throughput genetic perturbation with single-cell RNA-seq has made practical a scale of genetic screening not previously possible.
Dysbiosis signatures of gut microbiota in coronary artery disease
Authors: Zhu Qi , Gao Renyuan , Zhang Yi , Pan Dengdeng , Zhu Yefei , Zhang Xiaohui , Yang Rong , Jiang Rong , Xu Yawei , Qin Huanlong
Published: September 2018

Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been considered to be an important risk factor that contributes to coronary artery disease (CAD), but limited evidence exists about the involvement of gut microbiota in the disease. Our study aimed to characterize the dysbiosis signatures of gut microbiota in coronary artery disease. The gut microbiota represented in stool samples were collected from 70 patients with coronary artery disease and 98 healthy controls. 16S rRNA sequencing was applied, and bioinformatics methods were used to decipher taxon signatures and function alteration, as well as the microbial network and diagnostic model of gut microbiota in coronary artery disease. Gut microbiota showed decreased diversity and richness in patients with coronary artery disease. The composition of the microbial community changed; Escherichia-Shigella [false discovery rate (FDR = 7.5*10−5] and Enterococcus (FDR = 2.08*10−7) were significant enriched, while Faecalibacterium (FDR = 6.19*10−10), Subdoligranulum (FDR = 1.63*10−6), Roseburia (FDR = 1.95*10−9), and Eubacterium rectale (FDR = 2.35*10−4) were significant depleted in the CAD group. Consistent with the taxon changes, functions such as amino acid metabolism, phosphotransferase system, propanoate metabolism, lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis, and protein and tryptophan metabolism were found to be enhanced in CAD patients. The microbial network revealed that Faecalibacterium and Escherichia-Shigella were the microbiotas that dominated in the healthy control and CAD groups, respectively. The microbial diagnostic model based on random forest also showed probability in identifying those who suffered from CAD. Our study successfully identifies the dysbiosis signature, dysfunctions, and comprehensive networks of gut microbiota in CAD patients. Thus, modulation targeting the gut microbiota may be a novel strategy for CAD treatment.
Successful Treatment of HIV-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma with Immune Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Galanina Natalie , Goodman Aaron M. , Cohen Philip R. , Frampton Garrett M. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: September 2018

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an incurable, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated malignancy. We reviewed 320 immunotherapy-treated patient records. Seventeen had HIV-associated malignancies, including nine men with KS. Median viral load was 20 copies/mL (range, undetectable to 549,704) and median CD4 count was 256 cells/μL (range, 10–603). Eight patients received nivolumab and one received pembrolizumab. Six patients (67%) achieved partial (N = 5) or complete remission (N = 1). No drug-related grade >2 toxicities occurred. In seven patients, CD4 counts increased (P = 0.09). Tissue and/or blood-derived circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was evaluated by next-generation sequencing. Four evaluable patients each showed anomalies in distinct genes: TP53, KRAS, TLL2, PTPN6 (tissue and/or ctDNA), and NF1 (ctDNA). Tumor mutational burden was low, and PD-L1 immunohistochemistry was negative (three and four assessable patients, respectively). Responders included patients with low CD4 counts, high HIV load, and/or visceral disease. In summary, checkpoint blockade demonstrated significant antitumor activity and low toxicity in patients with HIV-associated KS. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(10); 1129–35. ©2018 AACR.
Overnutrition: Does Complementary Feeding Play a Role?
Authors: Laving Ahmed R. , Hussain Syeda Ra’ana , Atieno Daisy O.
Published: September 2018

Globally, obesity is considered an epidemic due to an increase in its prevalence and severity especially among young children and adolescents. This nutritional disorder is not limited to affluent countries as it is becoming increasingly prevalent in developing countries. Obesity is associated not only with cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, orthopedic, and respiratory diseases, but also with psychological complications, implying a problem of far-reaching consequences for health and health services. Recently, evidence-based studies have shown that the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and the type of complementary feeds during the weaning period of an infant may have an effect on overnutrition later on in life. Thus, stemming the tide of obesity early on in life would potentially decrease the prevalence and complications of adult obesity, which could have significant implications for health care and the economy at large. This review explores the role of complementary feeding in obesity and approaches to prevention and treatment of childhood obesity by summarizing key systematic reviews. In conclusion, we found that although the relationship between complementary feeding and childhood obesity has been suspected for a long time, specific risk parameters are not as firmly established. Early introduction of complementary feeds (before the 4th month of life), high protein and energy content of feeds, and nonadherence to feeding guidelines may be associated with overweight and obesity later in life.
Minimal Reporting Standards for Active Middle Ear Hearing Implants
Authors: Maier Hannes , Baumann Uwe , Baumgartner Wolf-Dieter , Beutner Dirk , Caversaccio Marco D. , Keintzel Thomas , Kompis Martin , Lenarz Thomas , Magele Astrid , Mewes Torsten , Müller Alexander , Rader Tobias , Rahne Torsten , Schraven Sebastian P. , Schwab Burkard , Sprinzl Georg Mathias , Strauchmann Bernd , Todt Ingo , Wesarg Thomas , Wollenberg Barbara , Plontke Stefan K.
Published: September 2018

There is currently no standardized method for reporting audiological, surgical and subjective outcome measures in clinical trials with active middle ear implants (AMEIs). It is often difficult to compare studies due to data incompatibility and to perform meta-analyses across different centres is almost impossible. A committee of ENT and audiological experts from Germany, Austria and Switzerland decided to address this issue by developing new minimal standards for reporting the outcomes of AMEI clinical trials. The consensus presented here aims to provide a recommendation to enable better inter-study comparability.
Association of Low Zinc Finger Antiviral Protein Expression with Progression and Poor Survival of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Ying , Hu Cheng , Zhu Wen-Bo , Xu Wen-Xiong , Li Zhan-Yi , Lin Yuan , Cai Jing , Liang Jian-kai , Zhu Xiang , Gao Zhi-Liang , Yan Guang-mei , Peng Liang
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Zinc finger antiviral protein (ZAP) has been reported to be expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and ZAP expression is associated with apoptotic signaling in cancer cells. This study aimed at investigating the expression of ZAP in HCC cells and its significance in clinical pathology. Methods: Real-time quantitative PCR and western blot assays were employed to detect ZAP RNA and protein expression in normal human hepatocytes, HCC cells, and five primary HCC cell lines. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect ZAP expression in 147 paraffin-embedded HCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. The clinical significance of ZAP expression was analyzed in tissue samples from patients with or without infection by hepatitis B virus (HBV). Results: ZAP expression in HCC cells and human primary HCC cell lines was significantly lower than that of normal human hepatocytes. Among 147 HCC samples, ZAP expression was lower in HCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues for 107 (77.0%) samples. In patients with HCC and HBV infection, ZAP expression was related to pathological grade (P < 0.05); in HBV-negative patients with HCC, ZAP expression was associated with tumor size (P < 0.05) and clinical stage (P < 0.05). The overall survival time in patients with low ZAP expression was significantly shorter than survival times of those with high ZAP expression (P < 0.05), especially for patients with moderately to well-differentiated HCC (Grade 1–2) and HCC at stage T1 and T2 (P < 0.05). Cox multivariate analysis showed that ZAP expression was an independent predictor of survival of patients with HCC (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Low ZAP expression is closely associated with disease progression and poor prognosis for patients with HCC.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Dehydroandrographolide by TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway Inhibition in Bile Duct-Ligated Mice
Authors: Weng Zhiyong , Chi Yue , Xie Jing , Liu Xuefeng , Hu Jiehua , Yang Fan , Li Lihua 
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Clinically, biliary obstruction is often accompanied by progressive inflammation. Dehydroandrographolide (DA) possesses anti-inflammatory properties. However, the anti-inflammatory activities of DA in cholestatic liver injury remain unclear. Methods: Mice were administered with DA by intraperitoneal injection after bile duct ligation (BDL) on day 1. Then mice were subjected to an ileocecal vein injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Liver function markers, histology, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, NF-κB activation and fibrosis formation were evaluated in BDL mice with LPS. LPS binding to primary Kupffer cells was examined by high-content cytometers. Results: DA was shown to greatly lower initially higher than normal levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and total bilirubin (TBIL) in the serum and liver of BDL mice with LPS. DA exerted hepatic protective effects that were also confirmed by prolonged survival of BDL mice with LPS. Liver histopathology showed reduced inflammatory cellular infiltration, bile duct proliferation, and biliary necrosis with DA treatment. Furthermore, DA reduced the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 in liver tissue and plasma and showed decreased NF-κB activation in BDL mice with LPS. DA could prevent LPS binding to primary Kupffer cells in the normal liver and BDL mice liver. DA also suppressed LPS-stimulated inflammatory responses by blocking the interaction between LPS and TLR4 in primary Kupffer cells and human LX-2 cells, thereby inhibiting NF-κB activation. Conclusion: DA inhibition of inflammation against liver damage following BDL with LPS may be a promising agent for the treatment of cholestatic liver injury.
КОМОРБІДНІСТЬ ТА ЇЇ ВПЛИВ НА ПРИХИЛЬНІСТЬ ДО ПОДАЛЬШОГО ЛІКУВАННЯ У ПАЦІЄНТІВ З ІНФАРКТОМ МІОКАРДА
Authors: Levchyk O. I.
Published: September 2018

In modern clinical practice, the doctor is increasingly faced with a combination of two or more diseases in one patient. Such states are called comorbid, concomitant pathologies, or associated diseases [1–3]. This is especially true for patients with myocardial infarction (MI), since cardiovascular disease (CVD ) remains one of the main causes of death in Ukraine and in the world (World Heart Federation, WH F, 2017).The aim of the study – to set the frequency and the structure of comorbidity in patients with myocardial infarction (IM) and its effect on adherence to further treatment.Materials and Methods. We examined 152 patients with MI, aged 38 to 89 years, on average (60.66±0.86) years (52 women and 100 men) who were divided according to the Morisky-Green questionnaire by two groups: the first – adherent to treatment (n=77), the second group – not adherent to treatment (n=75). The Charlson and CIRS comorbidity indices were determined.Results and Discussion. Both groups identified risk factors and 84% of the concomitant pathology, with the Charleston index – (5.81±1.78), and CIRS (9.32±2.79) points, the largest proportion of diseases of the digestive system. When comparing between groups for the same amount of comorbid pathology (5.66±0.19) and (5.96±0.24) points of Charlson, p<0.05) in patients in the second group a heavier course with deeper damage to organs and systems (CIRS – (8.23±0.25) versus (10.43±0.34) points, p<0.001), which reduces the level of adherence to the prescribed therapy.Conclusions. Patients with myocardial infarction often have a comorbidity, but with the same number of concomitant diseases in different patients, the severity and depth of damage to organs and systems are different. The present combined pathology has an effect on adherence to therapy. Determining the Charlson and CIRS indices allows you to predict the level of compliance individually for each patient and take measures to increase its level.
Gerard Manley Hopkins and Ruskin’s Idea of the Christian Artist
Authors: Ward Bernadette Waterman
Published: September 2018

John Ruskin gave Gerard Manley Hopkins an aesthetic vocabulary imbued with Christian concepts of obedience, sacrifice, truth, and Divine Beauty. Even secular art is never morally neutral; Christian art has additional moral weight in the artist’s reverence for God’s self-revelation in creation. Hopkins’s Scotism confirmed his conviction that an artist’s work must be a responsible personal proclamation of truth about creation. Such moral responsibility discourages easy sentimentality but demands reverence for beauty. The depth of Hopkins’s interaction with etymology, syntax, and sound springs from Ruskinian sacrificial expenditure of workmanship and reverence for what Ruskin called “truth” to materials. “Ashboughs,” a cheerful, subtly Marian curtal sonnet, shows Hopkins’s Ruskinian principles at work late in his life, especially in the poet’s attention to diction, syntax, and divine truth revealed in concrete, worldly beauty.
“Most Active and Effectual Assistance” in the Correspondence of Sir William Dugdale and William Somner
Authors: Fletcher Rachel
Published: September 2018

In theDictionarium Saxonico-Latino-Anglicum(1659), the first published dictionary of Old English, its compiler, William Somner (?1606–1669), expresses his gratitude for the “most active and effectual assistance” of the herald and antiquary William Dugdale (1605–1686) in bringing the work to publication. However, this brief mention conveys little about the long-standing working relationship between the two men, which was already in place when Somner began work on theDictionariumand which continued after its publication. The author shows how surviving correspondence can help build a fuller picture, drawing on letters frequently cited in connection with theDictionariumalongside less discussed material. This article situates Dugdale’s “active and effectual assistance” with theDictionariumin the wider context of the antiquarian interests and projects he shared with Somner. In doing so, it also demonstrates how each of the two men was able to contribute his own expertise and resources to the work of the other. As such, this article emphasises both the importance of such collaboration for the development of Old English studies in the seventeenth century and the significant overlap in this period between linguistic investigation and broader antiquarian activities.
Water-Dispersible Rhodamine B Hydrazide Loaded TiO2 Nanoparticles for “Turn On” Fluorimetric Detection and Imaging of Orthosilicic Acid Accumulation In-Vitro in Nephrotoxic Kidney Cells
Authors: Mascarenhas Starlaine C , Gawas Ram U , Ghosh Barun Kumar , Banerjee Mainak , Ganguly Anasuya , Chatterjee Amrita , Ghosh Narendra Nath
Published: September 2018

Silica (SiO2) is the inevitable form of silicon owing to its high affinity for oxygen, existing as a geogenic element perpetrating multifarious health problems when bioavailable via anthropogenic activities. The hydrated form of silica viz. orthosilicic acid (H4SiO4)
excessively displays grave toxicity, attributed to prolonged exposure and incessant H+ ions generating capacity inflicting pulmonary toxicity and renal toxicity silica. The diverse deleterious potency of silica highlights the desirability of selective and sensitive detection of
toxic species (mainly orthosilicic acid) bioaccumulation in affected living human cells. In this paper we have reported, the design of water-dispersible turn-on fluorimetric sensing material for the detection of orthosilicic acid in the aqueous phase and in live cells. The sensing material
was prepared by adsorbing a suitable rhodamine derivative (i.e., Rhodamine B hydrazide (Rh1)) on water dispersible TiO2 nanoparticles. The function of the sensing system, which is composed of Rh1 and TiO2 (Rh1@TiO2), is accredited to H+ ion (from
orthosilicic acid) induced spirolactam ring-opening of the rhodamine derivative generating orange fluorescence and bright pink colouration. The sensing system was efficiently utilized for fluorimetric detection and imaging of orthosilicic acid accumulation in-vitro in human kidney
cells (HK cells). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time this sensing system (Rh1@TiO2) is reported for detection of toxic silica species accumulation in-vitro in human kidney cells. The advantages, such as good water dispersibility, the absence of organic
solvents during fluorimetric studies, quick turn-on type signal transduction, low-level imaging, which are offered by the synthesized sensing material (Rh1@TiO2), make it a potential candidate to fabricate medical tool for early identification of silicainduced nephrotoxicity, which
can help to reduce the burden and risk of chronic kidney disease development.
Assessments of Different Methods for Testing Heteroresistance to Rifampicin in Tubercle Bacillus
Authors: Chen Junlin , Huang Fei , Yin Xi , Gu Delin
Published: September 2018

This study was undertaken to compare the ability of four clinically used methods to detect the heteroresistance of the tubercle bacillus to Rifampicin (Rif). A total of 94 sputum smear-positive samples of re-treated tuberculosis (TB) patients were employed. Rif-resistant tubercle bacillus
tests were carried out by four methods: Lowenstein-Jensen cultures (L-J), reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), microscopic observation drug susceptibility (MODS), and high-resolution melting (HRM). The rates of detection of Rif-resistant bacteria by of L-J, RT-PCR, MODS,
and HRM were 35.1% (33), 36.4% (35), 36.2% (34), and 16.0% (15), respectively. The rate of detection by RT-PCR was slightly higher than that of L-J and MODS (P > 0.05) and significantly higher than that of HRM (P < 0.01). The median detection time of L-J, RT-PCR, MODS,
and HRM was 60 d, 1 d, 9 d, and 1 d, respectively. Smear-positive TB can be directly and rapidly detected using RT-PCR and MODS technologies. The positive rates of RT-PCR and MODS were not only highly consistent with that of L-J and remarkably higher than that of HRM, but also were obtained
in a markedly shortened time. The combination of MODS and RT-PCR has a synergistic effect on the speed of detection of heteroresistance, which is of great value for the timely and accurate diagnosis, guiding the clinicians in formulating the optimal treatment of smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of PAA-Coated NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ Nanophosphors with Predicted Morphology, Phase and Enhanced Upconversion Luminescence Properties
Authors: Tong Chao , Xie Shaowen , Zhou Hu , Li Na , Gong Liang , Jian Jian , Zhang Changfan , Xu Lijian , Xu Jianxiong
Published: September 2018

In this study, well-defined PAA-coated NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ nanophosphors were synthesized via a poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) mediated hydrothermal process. The rational control of initial reaction conditions, such as hydrothermal temperature, pH value of precursor-solution,
added amount of PAA, and molecular weight of PAA ligand, resulted in upconversion of NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ phosphors with varying crystal phases (α and β) and morphologies (e.g., nanosphere, submicrorod, microrod, microtube, and microprism).
By assessing the upconversion luminescent properties of the synthesized NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ phosphors upon excitation by 980 nm infrared light, it was demonstrated that the β-phase NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ phosphors generally
presented stronger upconversion luminescent than α-phase NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ phosphors and orthorhombic phase of YF3:Yb3+, Er3+ sample. Additionally, the β-phase NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+
phosphors with hollow microtube morphology presented higher upconversion luminescent intensity than phosphors of other morphologies. This may be due to microtubes having larger surface area (inner and outer surfaces), which promoted the absorption efficiency under similar excitation conditions,
therefore generating higher luminescent intensity. Findings form this study suggest for precisely controlled growth of other complex rare earth fluoride compounds and provide a reference for exploration of component-, phase- and morphology-dependent upconversion luminescence properties.
Ultralong TiO2 (B) Nanowires/TiO2 Nanoparticles Composites for Rapid Electron Transport in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Guo Min , Yang Lu , Chen Jia , Zhang Jun , Su Haijun , Liu Lin , Xie Keyu
Published: September 2018

The relatively small electron diffusion coefficient and high charge recombination rate of TiO2 nanoparticle (NP) film limit charge collection in TiO2 NP based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Herein, ultralong bending TiO2 (B) nanowires (NWs) were
introduced to TiO2 NP photoanode and expected to modify electron transport of DSSCs. The TiO2 (B) NWs/TiO2 NP composite structure was prepared by a facial process combining the stirring hydrothermal method with mechanical mixing method. When the composite structure
was applied to DSSCs, the rapid electron transport pathway was formed in photoanode, which was clarified by the small electron transport resistance and long electron diffusion length, improving the charge collection efficiency. Moreover, the scattering effect of TiO2 (B) NWs could
enhance the light harvesting, and thus improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of DSSCs. The excellent electronic and optical characteristics of TiO2 (B) NWs yield the maximum enhancement of PCE (36.4%) when 50% (wt.%) TiO2 (B) NWs was integrated into TiO2
NP based DSSC. The work provides new insights into the design and tailoring nanowires to enhance the PCE of DSSCs for practical applications.
The Role of Nanotechnology in Food Safety: Current Status and Future Perspective
Authors: Ali Zeeshan , Zhang Chuanxiang , Zhu Junchen , Jin Gang , Wang Zhifei , Wu Yanqi , Khan Muhammad Ammar , Dai Jianguo , Tang Yongjun
Published: September 2018

Nanotechnology is an emerging science in food production and processing sector, yet the role of nanotechnology in food safety has not been comprehensively reviewed. This study reviewed the types, sources and mode of actions of the nanoparticles used in the food systems. Additionally,
the effect of nanoparticles on animal health and safety of the products of animal origin was evaluated. Moreover, retention of nutritionally important nanoparticle minerals in the animal systems and foods of animal origins was analyzed. Furthermore, food safety was critically evaluated in
terms of antioxidative ability, antibacterial properties, and toxicological studies. Finally, the scope of nanoparticle-based functional foods and shelf-life enhancement using active packaging was discussed. The article concluded that although significant research has been done on the use
of nanoparticles in food systems, yet commercialization of nanoparticle-based foods needs further investigation.
Selective Reduction of Nitro Group in Aryl Halides Catalyzed by Silver Nanoparticles Modified with β-CD
Authors: Ding Xu , Zhu Geng , Guan Jian-Ning , Han Guo-Zhi
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we first report the selective reduction of nitro group in aryl halides catalyzed by silver nanoparticles modified with β-CD. Taking advantage of hydrophobic lumen and donor–acceptor behavior of β-CD, the halogenated alkyl groups on the aromatic
ring can be enveloped in the inner cavity that thereby inhibits the reduction of the halogen. For validating the mechanism proposed by us, different silver nanoparticles were applied in parallel experiments. In our experiments, UV-vis spectra and NMR spectra were used to characterize the selectivity.
This strategy represents an outstanding improvement on the synthesis of halogenated aromatic amines in comparison with the traditional route, and greatly expands the application of silver nanoparticles in catalytic field.
Modulation of the Meridional Structures of the Indo-Pacific Warm Pool on the Response of the Hadley Circulation to Tropical SST
Authors: Feng Juan , Li Jianping , Kucharski Fred , Wang Yaqi , Sun Cheng , Xie Fei , Yang Yun
Published: September 2018

By decomposing the variations of the Hadley circulation (HC) and tropical zonal-mean sea surface temperature (SST) into the equatorially asymmetric (HEA for HC, SEA for SST) and symmetric (HES for HC, SES for SST) components, the varying response of the HC to different SST meridional structures under warm and cold conditions of the Indo-Pacific warm pool (IPWP) is investigated over the period 1979–2016. The response of the HC to SST evidences an asymmetric variation between warm and cold IPWP conditions; that is, the response ratio of HEA to SEA relative to that of HES to SES is ~5 under warm conditions and ~2 under cold conditions. This asymmetry is primarily due to a decrease in the HEA-to-SEA ratio under cold IPWP conditions, and is driven by changes in the meridional distribution of SST anomalies. Equatorial asymmetric (symmetric) SST anomalies are dominated by warm (cold) IPWP conditions. Thus, variations of SEA are suppressed under cold IPWP conditions, contributing to the observed weakening of the HEA-to-SEA ratio. The results presented here indicate that the HC is more sensitive to the underlying SST when the IPWP is warmer, during which the variation of SEA is enhanced, suggesting a recent strengthening of the response of the HC to SST, as the IPWP has warmed over the past several decades, and highlighting the importance of the IPWP meridional structures rather than the overall warming of the HC.
Digital Video Laryngoscopy and Flexible Endoscopic Biopsies as an Alternative Diagnostic Workup in Laryngopharyngeal Cancer: A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Schutte Henrieke W. , Takes Robert P. , Slootweg Piet J. , Arts Marianne J.P.A. , Honings Jimmie , van den Hoogen Frank J.A. , Marres Henri A.M. , van den Broek Guido B.
Published: September 2018

Objectives:

An office-based workup strategy for patients with laryngopharyngeal lesions suspicious for carcinoma is analyzed. The feasibility of office-based transnasal flexible endoscopic biopsies under local anesthesia and the impact on the diagnostic workup are evaluated.

Methods:

This study is a prospective analysis of patients with laryngeal, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal lesions suspicious for carcinoma. One hundred eighty-eight participants were divided into 2 groups. The first group underwent an office-based biopsy procedure under local anesthesia using a flexible digital video laryngoscope with instrument channel (n = 53), and the second group underwent a biopsy procedure under general anesthesia using rigid laryngopharyngoscopy (n = 135).

Results:

Office-based flexible endoscopic biopsies were tolerated well, and there were no complications. These biopsies were 92.5% successful in acquiring a definitive diagnosis. Costs were reduced. Diagnostic workup time and time until start of therapy were reduced to 2 days and 27 days, respectively.

Conclusion:

Office-based biopsy under local anesthesia using flexible digital video laryngoscopy is safe, cost-effective, and successful in providing a histopathological diagnosis. It reduces the diagnostic workup time significantly in patients with laryngeal, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal cancer, while also reducing the necessity to subsequently perform a rigid laryngopharyngoscopy under general anesthesia.
Adjunctive Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in men with depression: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Glozier Nick , Christensen Helen , Griffiths Kathleen M , Hickie Ian B , Naismith Sharon L , Biddle Daniel , Overland Simon , Thorndike Frances , Ritterband Lee
Published: September 2018

Objective:

Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia is efficacious for insomnia, and post hoc analyses suggest mood improvements. We undertook the first clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia on depressive symptoms as an adjunct to guideline-based treatment of depressive disorders.

Methods:

Older men undergoing psychiatrist-coordinated treatment for major depressive disorder or dysthymia and who had significant insomnia symptoms were randomised to either adjunctive Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (Sleep Healthy Using The Internet) or online sleep psychoeducation. The primary outcome was change in depressive symptoms (Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale) from baseline to week 12 (post intervention). Secondary outcomes were insomnia and anxiety symptoms.

Results:

In all, 87 men were randomised (Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia = 45; psychoeducation = 42). The mean observed Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale changes by week 12 were 8.2 (standard deviation = 11.5) and 3.9 (standard deviation = 12.8) for Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia and psychoeducation, respectively. The adjunctive effect size of 0.35 in favour of Sleep Healthy Using The Internet programme was not statistically significant (group × time difference in the Mixed effect Model Repeat Measurement analysis difference 4.3; 95% confidence interval = [−1.2, 9.8]; p = 0.15). There was a statistically significant effect on insomnia symptoms (group × time p = 0.02, difference 2.7; 95% confidence interval = [0.2, 5.3]; effect size = 0.62). There were no differences in insomnia or depression at 6 months or differential effects on anxiety at any time point. There were no reported adverse trial-related events in the intervention arm.

Conclusion:

Adjunctive Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia for older men being treated for depression can improve insomnia in the short term, without apparent harm. The short-term depressive symptom effect size in this pilot trial was comparable to other adjunctive interventions and may warrant a larger, definitive trial.
Primary Energy Factors and the primary energy intensity of delivered energy: An overview of possible calculation conventions
Authors: Hitchin Roger
Published: September 2018

The related concepts of Primary Energy and Primary Energy Factors (which describe how much Primary energy is contained in each unit of delivered energy) are used for international comparisons of national energy use and have become increasingly important regulatory and statistical metrics, especially in relation to the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. As concepts they contain a mixture of technical, political and economic dimensions, so it is perhaps unsurprising that reported values from different organisations and countries do not seem to be calculated in the same way. This review aims to clarify the origins of such differences by identifying, summarising and commenting on alternative conventions that are or can be applied. In particular, it aims to provide a starting point for the development of a transparent means of reporting the procedures and conventions that are employed. Such a framework would provide a basis for understanding the reasons for differences. The review does not recommend specific conventions or procedures – preferences will vary, depending on a number of factors.

Practical application: Primary Energy Factors are central to international comparisons of national energy consumption and to several aspects of European energy policy. In the context of buildings, they are especially important to the newly revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive which requires primary energy to be the primary metric, rather than, for example, carbon emissions. It is known that different countries use different methodologies and that this can have substantial repercussions. The methodologies used are rarely reported and range of possible options has not previously been set out. This paper sets out to do this in order so that choices can be made with greater transparency and clarity.
Implicit Bias Predicts Liking of Ingroup Members Who Are Comfortable With Intergroup Interaction
Authors: Jacoby-Senghor Drew S. , Sinclair Stacey , Smith Colin Tucker , Skorinko Jeanine L. M.
Published: September 2018

We test a novel framework for how ingroup members are perceived during intergroup interaction. Across three experiments, we found that, above and beyond egalitarian attitudes and motivations, White observers’ automatic responses to Blacks (i.e., their implicit anti-Black bias) shaped their affiliation toward ingroup targets who appeared comfortable engaging in interracial versus same-race interaction. White observers’ implicit anti-Black bias negatively correlated with liking of White targets who were comfortable with Blacks (Experiments 1-3). The relationship between implicit bias and liking varied as a function of targets’ nonverbal comfort in interracial interactions (Experiment 1). Specifically, implicit bias negatively correlated with liking of targets when targets’ nonverbal behaviors revealed observers felt comfortable with interracial contact, irrespective of the nature of those behaviors (Experiment 2). Finally, the relationship between implicit bias and target liking was mediated by perceived similarity (Experiment 3). Theoretical implications for stigma-by-association, social network homogeneity, and extended contact are discussed.
A Study on the Effect of Porous CaCO3 on Micro-Cellular Plastics as an Additive for Nucleation
Authors: Cha Sung W. , Yoon Jae D. , Uto Nariatsu
Published: September 2018

Plastics are widely used in industry, in that they are light and easily manufactured. Much research is being conducted currently to increase the strengths and to reduce the price of the material.

Foaming techniques are used to achieve insulation properties, to reduce weight, and to reduce the material cost. Due to their unique properties, foamed plastics are applied to refrigerator, pipe, and insulators. In 1980, Micro-cellular foaming was invented at MIT. By applying the outstanding foaming technique, many small cells are generated in the polymer matrices and micro-cellular foamed plastics show relatively high specific strength.

We investigated the role of CaCO3, which is one of the most widely used additives in the plastics industry, for nucleation in view of cell morphology. Porous CaCO3 chemically treated to increase the dispersibility and to lower the density was used in this study. Two experiments were conducted in order to check the role of the additive for nucleation. One is the compound-ability test and the other is for the role as nucleation agents.
Physical Properties of Polypropylene Foams – how to Predict and Control Them
Authors: Stadlbauer Manfred , Folland Rick
Published: September 2018

Low density extruded PP foams are increasingly being used in food packaging and automotive applications and their use is also being extended into other applications, such as insulation and protective packaging. This commercial success has been made possible by the development of HMS-PP, the unique physical property profile of PP itself and the ability modify the foam properties over a wide range by appropriate selection of a blend partner. It is the last factor that is the focus of the present paper. We will describe foaming studies using HMS-PP with different classes of polyolefin blend partner and different blowing agents. By combining this extensive experimental data with theoretical models, we are able to provide a predictive tool for selecting material combinations, which will enable the desired foam properties to be achieved by foam producers and end-users.
Correlation of Decompression Time and Foaming Temperature on the Cell Density of Foamed Polystyrene
Authors: Muratani Keiichi , Shimbo Minoru , Miyano Yasushi
Published: September 2018

In this paper, the correlation between the foaming temperature and the decompression rate (decompression time) of the cell density that is the number of cells per unit volume remaining in the foamed plastic will be discussed. Foaming was carried out by the following method: the blowing agent was soaked into the resin as a solid state at high pressure under temperatures higher than the glass transition temperature of the resin. After the foaming agent reached its saturation state, cell nucleation and cell growth were accelerated by decompression. Finally, cell growth was halted by cooling. A device that can accurately control temperature and the decompression rate was designed, produced and verified for accuracy prior to this investigation. The polystyrene (PS) specimens were foamed under various foaming temperatures and the decompression rates using the above-mentioned method. The following results were obtained: 1. Cell density of foamed polystyrene shows time and temperature dependence as follows. The cell density increases when the decompression rate is quick, i.e. the decompression time is shortened under the condition of low foaming temperature, and cell density decreases when the decompression rate is slow, i.e. decompression time is lengthened under the condition of high foaming temperature, 2. Correlation is maintained between the temperature dependence and time dependence of the cell density of foamed PS, and it can be expressed by one master curve, 3. Based on this correlation, it is possible to predict the required foaming conditions of plastics having arbitrary cell densities.
Effect of Foaming Temperature Control on Cell Size and Cell Density of Microcellular Plastics
Authors: Kawashima Hidetaka , Shimbo Minoru
Published: September 2018

In this study, noticing foaming temperature as a factor, which induces thermodynamic instability for cell nucleation of Microcellular plastics, the effect of control method of foaming temperature on cell size and cell density - that is number per unit volume of foamed plastics - were investigated. Generally, foaming by using batch process is carried out as follows. First, blowing agent is soaked into plastics until saturation under high pressure and soaking temperature. After plastics were saturated with blowing agent, pressure is released rapidly and then temperature is raised to foaming temperature and cells are nucleated and grown. Finally, rapid cooling controls cell growth. In this case, two methods can be considered for the control of foaming temperature. One is the elevated temperature method in which temperature is raised to foaming temperature and cells are grown after decompression in the foaming process. The other is the constant temperature method in which the temperature is already kept at foaming temperature before decompression. That is, it is the method of performing soaking and foaming at the same temperature. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) resins were foamed under foaming conditions which the same foaming magnification is produced by both methods and cell size and cell density of foamed PMMA were investigated. As results, in case of production of the foamed plastics having the same foam magnification, it turned out that cell density of foamed plastics becomes large and average cell size becomes small but the maximum cell size becomes large by the elevated temperature method. On the other hand, although the maximum cell size becomes small, average cell size becomes large by the constant temperature method.
Mechanical Performance of Auxetic Polyurethane Foam for Antivibration Glove Applications
Authors: Scarpa F. , Giacomin J. , Zhang Y. , Pastorino P.
Published: September 2018

In this study the static and dynamic characteristics of conventional open cell polyurethane (PU), of auxetic (negative Poisson's ratio) and of iso-density foams were analysed. The specimens were produced from conventional gray open-cells polyurethane foam with 30–35 pores/inch and 0.0027 g/cm3density, by means of process which has been previously defined by the authors. Poisson's ratio measurements were performed under quasi-static conditions using an MTS 858 servo-hydraulic test machine and a video image acquisition system. For the auxetic foams the results suggested similar behaviour to that previously reported in the literature, with significant increases in stiffness during compressive loading, and a significant dependence of the Poisson's ratio on the applied strain. Transmissibility tests, performed in accordance with the ISO 13753 procedure for antivibration glove materials, suggested a strong dependence of the transmissibility on the foam manufacturing parameters. Within the frequency range from 10 to 31.5 Hz the transmissibility was found to be greater than 1, while it was less than 1 at all frequencies greater than 31.5 Hz. The transmissibility results were similar to the mean values for 80 resilient materials tested by Koton et. al., but were higher than the five best materials (not all polymeric) identified by the same researchers. In this study it has been suggested that the resilient behaviour of glove isolation materials should also be evaluated in terms of the indentation characteristics. A simple, linear elastic, Finite Element simulation was therefore performed, and the indentation results suggested that auxetic foams offer a significant decrease in compressive stresses with respect to conventional PU foams.
Extrusion Foaming of Poly(Lactic acid) Blown with CO2: Toward 100% Green Material
Authors: Reignier Joël , Gendron Richard , Champagne Michel F.
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a thorough investigation of the continuous extrusion foaming of amorphous poly(lactic acid) (PLA) using carbon dioxide (CO2) as the blowing agent. Detailed results describing the plasticization induced by CO2 dissolution as measured from two different methods, on-line rheometry and in-line ultrasonic technique, are given. Characteristics of the foams obtained from extrusion performed under various processing conditions are also reported. Extrusion of PLA foams in the 20–25 kg/m3 density range was achieved. However, the associated processing window was very narrow: CO2 content lower than ca. 7 wt% did not lead to significant foam expansion while foams blown at CO2 contents larger than 8.3 wt% showed severe shrinkage upon ageing.