bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty analysis for signal detection
Authors: Odyniec Michał
Published: May 2018

This paper addresses parameter identification of signals that are smooth and have compact support, but are otherwise arbitrary. We propose a definition of the time reference that results in the time uncertainty estimates that are much smaller than what one might expect with a casual analysis. These estimates are easily calculable given the noise level of the recording device and the signal shape.
Covering diagrams over surface-knot diagrams
Authors: Yashiro Tsukasa
Published: May 2018

A surface-knot is a closed oriented surface smoothly embedded in 4-space and a surface-knot diagram is a projected image of a surface-knot under the orthogonal projection in 3-space with crossing information. Every surface-knot diagram induces a rectangular-cell complex. In this paper, we introduce a covering diagram over a surface-knot diagram. the covering map induces a covering of the rectangular-cell complexes. As an application, a lower bound of triple point numbers for a family of surface-knots is obtained.
Facile Synthesis of Graphene-Based Aerogels and Their Applications for Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Yu Huiyuan , Zhu Jiayi , Ren Hongbo , Liu Shuxin
Published: May 2018

Graphene-based aerogels with a three-dimensional interconnected network were fabricated via the hydrothermal self-assembly and thermal-annealing process. The aerogels were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The graphene-based aerogels showed highly porous structure and adsorption capacity for heavy metal ions. Thus, they would be the promising materials for removal of heavy metal ions from water.
Comparative Studies of Magneto-Optical and Photocatalytic Properties of Magnetically Recyclable Spinel ZnFe2O4 Nanostructures by Combustion Methods
Authors: Sripriya R. C. , Vigneaswari B. , Raj Victor Antony
Published: May 2018

Spinel ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully synthesized by a simple microwave irradiation method (MIM) using glycine as the fuel. For the comparative study purpose, it was also prepared by conventional heating (CHM) method. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), high resolution scanning electron microscope (HR-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra, selected area electron diffraction (SAED) analysis showed that the samples were pure phase spinel ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles-like morphology without any other secondary phase impurity. UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) and room temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra were confirmed the optical bandgap ([Formula: see text] and defects state of the samples. The calculated [Formula: see text] values of the samples are 1.91[Formula: see text]eV and 2.08[Formula: see text]eV for ZnFe2O4-MIM and ZnFe2O4-CHM, respectively. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis show the Ms value is 37.66[Formula: see text]emu/g for ZnFe2O4-MIM, which is higher than ZnFe2O4-CHM (24.23 emu/g) sample, which confirm both the products showed superparamagnetic behavior. ZnFe2O4-MIM was found to have higher surface area than ZnFe2O4-CHM, which in turn leads to the improved performance toward the photocatalytic degradation (PCD) of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) and it was found that the sample ZnFe2O4-MIM show higher PCD efficiency (91.43%) than ZnFe2O4-CHM (84.65%), also the samples show high activity, good reusability, remarkable stability and environmentally friendly materials for industrial and technological applications.
Indium Nitride Nanoparticles Prepared by Laser Ablation in Liquid
Authors: Khashan Khawla S. , Abbas Sarah F.
Published: May 2018

Indium nitride InN nanoparticles NPs suspension prepared by Nd:YAG laser ablation of indium target submerged under ammonium hydroxide. The Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV/VIS/NIR spectrophotometer and Conductivity meter were used to determine the properties of the nanoparticles prepared with different laser conditions. Fourier transform infrared spectra exhibit the presence of In[Formula: see text]N and In–N bonds, which indicates the formation of InN particles. X-ray diffraction pattern observed in the formation of InN NPs with cubic phase, the average diameters of the dominant peak c-InN (101) were approximately 2[Formula: see text]nm. Scanning electron microscopy image shows the presence of a large number of spherical shape nanoparticles having a particle size in the range 2–40[Formula: see text]nm with a few individual nanoparticles larger than 128[Formula: see text]nm. The transmission spectra of InN NPs suspension have the maximum optical transmission edge at 1378[Formula: see text]nm with bandgap energy was 0.85–1.2[Formula: see text]eV. InN has high electrical conductivity that depends on temperature value with small activation energy at room temperature ranging from 0.0318[Formula: see text]meV to 0.1591[Formula: see text]meV.
Modification of Spectral Behavior of Ketocyanine Dyes by Silver Nanoparticles of Different Sizes
Authors: Thipperudrappa J. , Raghavendra U. P. , Deepa H. R. , Basanagouda Mahantesha
Published: May 2018

The spectral behavior of two ketocyanine dyes 2,5-di[(E)-1-(4-dimethylaminophenyl) methylidine]-1-cyclopentanone(2,5-DMAPMC) and 2,5-di[(E)-1-(4-diethylaminophenyl) methylidine]-1-cyclopentanone (2,5-DEAPMC) is investigated in the presence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of sizes 32[Formula: see text]nm, 52[Formula: see text]nm and 60[Formula: see text]nm using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The absorption spectral changes of dyes with the addition of AgNPs of different sizes suggest their possible interaction with AgNPs. Fluorescence quenching has been observed for both the dyes with the addition of AgNPs of all the sizes. The possible quenching mechanisms including energy transfer and electron transfer are discussed. The fluorescence quenching rate parameter is found to increase with increase in the size of AgNPs and is explained based on the varying ability of silver AgNPs of different sizes to accommodate dye molecules. The effect of functional groups on quenching rate parameters is also discussed.
Characterization and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Biologically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Albuca setosa Aqueous Bulb Extract
Authors: Odeyemi Samuel Wale , Afolayan Anthony Jide
Published: May 2018

Biologically synthesized nanoparticles are rapidly evolving because it is cost effective and eco-friendly, this also contributes to its preference over nanoparticles from other sources. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized from Albuca setosa aqueous bulb (ASB) extracts and the biological activities evaluated. The silver nanoparticles were synthesized from ASB extracts using silver nitrate and characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antioxidant activity was determined by evaluating the effect on 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, 2,2[Formula: see text]-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid diammonium salt (ABTS). The antibacterial potential was investigated on selected Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria while the cytotoxicity was evaluated on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells (ATCC HTB-26). Albuca setosa silver nanoparticles (AS-AgNPs) was formed within 60 min reaction time of UV–Vis absorption. The FTIR showed that acid anhydride, alkene, amine, aldehyde, ester, ketone and carbonyl groups contributed to the synthesis of the AS-AgNPs, while SEM and TEM showed stable irregular shaped monodispersed silver nanoparticles with average size of 7 nm. The XRD patterns revealed diffraction peaks at [Formula: see text] and 92.37∘ that was indexed to (1 1 0), (1 1 0), (1 0 0), (1 0 0) and (1 0 0) planes of face-centered cubic (fcc) crystalline structure respectively. The synthesized nanoparticles possess good antioxidant activity with IC50 of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml for DPPH and ABTS, respectively, and inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus with MIC of 25 and 15[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml respectively. AS-AgNPs also revealed higher cytotoxic efficacy against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells with IC50 of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml. AS-AgNPs showed acceptable size and shape of nanoparticles and could therefore be a potential source of antimicrobial and anticancer agents. It can be concluded that the synthesized AS-AgNPs is a good source of anticancer agent with broad spectrum of antibiotic activity.
Adhesion Failure and Rupturing of Ultra-Thin Polymer Film Near Melt: Role of Interfacial Effects
Authors: Singh Satya Pal
Published: May 2018

The results for the case of rupturing of an ultra-thin polymer film confined in a narrow planar geometry, are presented in this paper. NVT Monte Carlo simulation technique with Glauber kinetics has been used. Periodic boundary conditions are applied along [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] directions. Two planar surfaces at separations of [Formula: see text] and 6.75[Formula: see text] are used to confine the film. The lower substrate at [Formula: see text] has square well attractive affinity to the polymer beads, whereas the upper substrate at [Formula: see text] interacts with beads via hard sphere interaction. The properties as-pair correlation function, mean square displacement, density distribution, etc., are sampled for different parameters as pore widths [Formula: see text] and 6.75[Formula: see text], average number densities [Formula: see text] beads/[Formula: see text], 1.78 beads/[Formula: see text] and 1.56 beads/[Formula: see text], surface-film interaction of square well strengths [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] with range [Formula: see text] at different temperatures [Formula: see text], 2.0, 2.2 and 2.4. Aggregation of monomers at free ends of the chains appears to initiate tearing of the film, causing formation of strip-like structures. Repulsive force arising because of overlap in excluded volume regions, re-organize the beads. Stronger surface force leads to the crystallization of the film whereas lower surface affinity leads to adhesion failure. For moderate values of surface affinities, there exists a delicate balance between molecular forces amongst beads and the surface affinity. The complex nanopatterns thus formed are a result of interplay of these forces. The phenomena discussed in the paper mimics spinodal dewetting.
Review of the Synthetic Techniques and Applications of the Quantum Dots/Graphene Composites
Authors: Duan Yong , Zeng Tianjian , Sun Tao , Tong Ling , Chen Anran , Zhang Jin , Wang Rongfei , Wang Chong , Yang Yu
Published: May 2018

The Quantum Dots/Graphene (QDs/GR) composites have attracted numerous interests caused by its unique physical and chemical properties in past few decades. The shortages of the single QD and graphene materials could be remedied by the synergistic effects from QDs/GR composite materials; meanwhile, some unique phenomena and superior physical properties were also produced. The QDs/GR composites processed better photocatalytic activities, higher photon capture abilities and excellent optical responsibilities. Therefore, they were widely applied in various techniques. Here, we reviewed and discussed recent research progresses about the QDs/GR composites and focused on their industrial preparation and commercial applications. Among these synthetic methods, ion beam sputtering deposition (IBSD) and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) were discussed in detail because they could be directly applied in commercial industry for preparing size-tunable quantum dots. In another part, the applications of the QDs/GR composites were also discussed, the advanced physical and chemical properties promoted these composites to have numerous potential for being applied in photodetectors, lithium ion batteries, solar cells, supercapacitors and other devices. The appropriate synthetic method for QDs/GR materials is highly dependent on the requirements of its applications. We firmly believe that the direct synthesis technique of ideal QDs/GR composite for specific applications is a challenge and research emphasis for scientist and engineers in future.
Stable and Recyclable SERS Substrates Based on Au-Loaded PET Nanocomposite Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Chen Hua-Xiang , Wang Yu-Ting , You Ting-Ting , Zhai Jin , Yin Peng-Gang
Published: May 2018

Novel surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates with stable and recyclable properties have been prepared by assembling gold nanoparticles-loaded PET (AuNPs/PET) nanocomposite superhydrophobic surfaces. After a physical vapor deposition process, the AuNPs/PET surfaces with vast plasmonic “hot spots” showed superhydrophobic properties, and it can hold target molecules droplets for rapid SERS detection. From blown off droplets and rinsed substrates with water after detection, we found that no probe molecules remained on the surfaces from Raman spectra. The prepared substrates were not contaminated in the detection process. Furthermore, the new SERS substrates were used for rapidly detecting droplets of crystal violet (CV) and the lowest detection concentration was about [Formula: see text] M. The as-prepared AuNPs/PET substrates also have good performance in terms of reproducibility and recyclability.
Solvothermal Synthesis of Novel 3D Peony-Like TiO2 Microstructures and its Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: He Yugan , Yan Qi , Chang Xiaoyu , Zhu Meiying , Wang Weiwei , Dong Menglong , Song Lianjie , Yang Junjiao , Huang Yaodong
Published: May 2018

A TiO2 photocatalyst with peony-like microstructures and a large percentage of exposed {001} facets was synthesized using a facile solvethermal method. The peony-like TiO2 was obtained using HF as a capping agent, TiCl4 as the precursor and ethanol as the solvothermal agent. The parameters which influence the mophology and formation mechanism of the products including the HF concentration, the reaction time and temperature and the solvothermal solvent, were investigated. The samples were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and N2 adsorption and desorption analysis. As the reaction time or reaction temperature increased, the morphology TiO2 changed from hexagonally assembled microspheres to peony-like microflowers which were composed of stacks of ultrathin nanosheets. The other reaction parameters also play a crucial role in the formation of the TiO2 microstuctures. Photocatalytic experiments showed that the synthesized TiO2 outperformed Degussa P25 in the photodegradation of methelene blue under a very weak UV light irradiation (power: 8[Formula: see text]W, light intensity: 0.4[Formula: see text]mW[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]).
Nanoporous Copper Fabricated by Dealloying Mn–Cu Precursors with Minor Nickel Element Addition and Heat Treatment Coarsening
Authors: Wang Jinyi , Yang Sen
Published: May 2018

Nanoporous copper (NPC) and nanoporous copper-nickel (NPC-Ni) can be prepared by free corrosion dealloying Mn[Formula: see text]Cu[Formula: see text]Nix ([Formula: see text], 1, 3[Formula: see text]at.% Ni) precursor alloys. Microscopic morphology characterization by scanning electron microscopy exhibited a three-dimensional bicontinuous porous structure with nanoscale ligaments and pores. NPC with a pore size of 48.7[Formula: see text]nm was obtained in 0.1[Formula: see text]M hydrochloric acid solution for 3.5[Formula: see text]h dealloyed at 25[Formula: see text]C. Under the same free corrosion dealloying condition, NPC-Ni1 and NPC-Ni3 were obtained with the pore size of 36.6[Formula: see text]nm and 28.1[Formula: see text]nm, respectively. The results indicate that minor Ni atoms addition to the precursor greatly refined the dealloyed nanoporous structure. This effect could be attributed to the lower Ni surface diffusivity than that of Cu and resulted in slow down of the diffusion and rearrangement of Cu atoms during dealloying process. Post-dealloying heat treatment at 300[Formula: see text]C, 450[Formula: see text]C and 600[Formula: see text]C made the ligaments coarsen in NPC and NPC-Ni.
A diffusive Holling–Tanner prey–predator model with free boundary
Authors: Li Chenglin
Published: May 2018

This paper is concerned with a diffusive Holling–Tanner prey–predator model in a bounded domain with Dirichlet boundary condition and a free boundary. The global existence of the unique solution is proved. Moreover, the criteria governing spreading–vanishing are derived by mainly using the comparison principle. The results show that if the length of the occupying line is bigger than a threshold value (spreading barrier), then the spreading of predators will make an achievement, and, if the length of the occupying line is smaller than this spreading barrier and the spreading coefficient is relatively small depending on initial size of predators, then the predators will fail in establishing themselves and eventually die out.
An age-structured epidemic model with waning immunity and general nonlinear incidence rate
Authors: Wang Xia , Zhang Ying , Song Xinyu
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a susceptible-vaccinated-exposed-infectious-recovered epidemic model with waning immunity and continuous age structures in vaccinated, exposed and infectious classes has been formulated. By using the Fluctuation lemma and the approach of Lyapunov functionals, we establish a threshold dynamics completely determined by the basic reproduction number. When the basic reproduction number is less than one, the disease-free steady state is globally asymptotically stable, and otherwise the endemic steady state is globally asymptotically stable.
Ferromagnetism in RaBi with Zinc-Blende and Wurtzite Structures: Ab-initio Prediction
Authors: Benaissa H. , Benatmane S. , Amari S. , Obodo K. O. , Beldi L. , Bendaoud H. , Bouhafs B.
Published: May 2018

Using density-functional theory within the generalized-gradient approximation, we explore the magnetic behavior induced by nonmagnetic atoms Ra and Bi in RaBi binary compound in five crystalline structures (rocksalt (B1), CsCl (B2), ZB (B3), WZ (B4) and NiAs (B8[Formula: see text]. In all the structures considered, the ferromagnetic (FM) phase is energetically less favorable compared to the paramagnetic phase except in the ZB and WZ structures. In the (FM) ZB and WZ structures, we obtained that the spin polarized 6[Formula: see text] orbitals of bismuth in the RaBi compound results in a half-metallic (HM-FM) ferromagnet with an integer magnetic moment of 1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] per formula unit. We calculated spin flip gaps (half-metallic gaps) of 0.16 and 0.18[Formula: see text]eV within GGA-PBE approach, 0.40[Formula: see text]eV and 0.33[Formula: see text]eV with mBJ-GGA-PBE approach for ZB and WZ structures, respectively. The RaBi compound in ZB and WZ structures would have potential application in spintronic devices.
Visceral adipose tissue tracks more closely with metabolic dysfunction than intrahepatic triglyceride in lean Asians without diabetes
Authors: Ding Cherlyn , Chan Zhiling , Chooi Yu Chung , Choo John , Sadananthan Suresh Anand , Michael Navin , Velan S. Sendhil , Leow Melvin K. S. , Magkos Faidon
Published: May 2018

Increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and intrahepatic triglyceride (IHTG) are important risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes in subjects with obesity. The relative contribution of these ectopic fat depots to cardiometabolic risk differs between populations, depends on the degree of obesity and the level of cardiorespiratory fitness, and is difficult to dissect because VAT and IHTG typically covary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an isolated increase in VAT or IHTG on insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion in apparently healthy normal-weight Asian subjects. Total body fat (dual X-ray absorptiometry), VAT and IHTG (magnetic resonance), insulin sensitivity (4-h hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp), beta cell responsivity and insulin secretion rate (3-h mixed meal with mathematical modeling), and cardiorespiratory fitness (maximal oxygen consumption [V̇o2max]) were evaluated in groups of lean subjects with low or high VAT (687 ± 94 vs. 1,279 ± 197 ml, matched for IHTG; n = 13 each) and low or high IHTG (1.7 ± 0.3 vs. 6.7 ± 2.0%, matched for VAT; n = 15 each). All groups were matched for age, sex, total body fat, and V̇o2max. High-VAT subjects had ~25% lower insulin sensitivity, ~20%–40% greater beta cell responsivity and insulin secretion rate, ~35% greater fasting triglyceride concentration, and ~40% lower adiponectin concentration than low-VAT subjects (all P < 0.05). No differences were observed between low-IHTG and high-IHTG subjects. Accumulation of excess fat in the intra-abdominal area is more strongly associated with metabolic dysfunction than accumulation of liver fat in lean Asians without diabetes.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY It is not known whether metabolic abnormalities in Asians without obesity track more closely with visceral or liver fat. We found an isolated increase in visceral fat was associated with reduced insulin sensitivity, greater insulin secretion, greater triglyceride, and lower adiponectin concentrations; no differences were observed with an isolated increase in liver fat. These results suggest that visceral fat is a better correlate of metabolic dysfunction than liver fat in Asians without obesity.
Synthesis of Kojic Ester Derivatives as Potential Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Sie Carolynne Zie Wei , Ngaini Zainab , Suhaili Nurashikin , Madiahlagan Eswaran
Published: May 2018

The search for lead product with beneficial pharmacological properties has become a great challenge and costly. Extraction and synthetic modification of bioactive compounds from natural resources has gained great attention and is cost effective. In this study, kojic acid was produced from fungal fermentation, using sago waste as substrate, and chemically incorporated with chalcones and azobenzene to form a series of kojic ester derivatives and evaluated for antibacterial activities. Kojic ester bearing halogenated chalcone demonstrated active inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus compared to that of standard ampicillin. The inhibition increased as the electronegativity of halogens decreased, while incorporation of azobenzene derivatives on kojic acid backbone demonstrated fair antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 190–330 ppm. The presence of C=C and N=N reactive moieties in both chalcone and azo molecules contributed to the potential biological activities of the kojic acid ester.
Effect of Thermal Environment on the Mechanical Behaviors of Building Marble
Authors: Su Haijian , Jing Hongwen , Yin Qian , Yu Liyuan
Published: May 2018

High temperature and thermal environment can influence the mechanical properties of building materials worked in the civil engineering, for example, concrete, building rock, and steel. This paper examines standard cylindrical building marble specimens (Φ50 × 100 mm) that were treated with high temperatures in two different thermal environments: vacuum (VE) and airiness (AE). Uniaxial compression tests were also carried out on those specimens after heat treatment to study the effect that the thermal environment has on mechanical behaviors. With an increase in temperature, the mechanical behavior of marble in this study indicates a critical temperature of 600°C. Both the peak stress and elasticity modulus were larger for the VE than they were for the AE. The thermal environment has an obvious influence on the mechanical properties, especially at temperatures of 450∼750°C. The failure mode of marble specimens under uniaxial compression is mainly affected by the thermal environment at 600°C.
Enhanced Nonlinear Robust Control for TCSC in Power System
Authors: Zhang Chao , Wang Xing , Ming Zhengfeng , Cai Zhuang
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes an enhanced robust control method, which is for thyristor controlled series compensator (TCSC) in presences of time-delay nonlinearity, uncertain parameter, and external disturbances. Unlike conventional adaptive control methods, the uncertain parameter is estimated by using system immersion and manifold invariant (I&I) adaptive control. Thus, the oscillation of states caused by the coupling between parameter estimator and system states can be avoided. In addition, in order to overcome the influences of time-delay nonlinearity and external disturbances, backstepping sliding mode control is adopted to design control law recursively. Furthermore, robustness of TCSC control subsystem is achievable provided that dissipation inequality is satisfied in each step. Effectiveness and efficiencies of the proposed control method are verified by simulations. Compared with adaptive backstepping sliding mode control and adaptive backstepping control, the time of reaching steady state is shortened by at least 11% and the oscillation amplitudes of transient responses are reduced by at most 50%.
Retention of HIV-Positive Adolescents in Care: A Quality Improvement Intervention in Mid-Western Uganda
Authors: Izudi Jonathan , Mugenyi John , Mugabekazi Mary , Muwanika Benjamin , Tumukunde Spector Victor , Katawera Andrew , Kekitiinwa Adeodata
Published: May 2018

Background. Low retention of HIV-positive adolescents in care is a major problem across HIV programs. Approximately 70% of adolescents were nonretained in care at Katooke Health Center, Mid-Western Uganda. Consequently, a quality improvement (QI) project was started to increase retention from 29.3% in May 2016 to 90% in May 2017. Methods. In May 2016, we analyzed data for retention, prioritized gaps with theme-matrix selection, analyzed root causes with fishbone diagram, developed site-specific improvement changes and prioritized with countermeasures matrix, and implemented improvement changes with Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA). Identified root causes were missing follow-up strategy, stigma and discrimination, difficult health facility access, and missing scheduled appointments. Interventions tested included generating list of adolescents who missed scheduled appointments, use of mobile phone technology, and linkage of adolescents to nearest health facilities (PDSA 1), Adolescent Only Clinic (PDSA 2), and monthly meetings to address care and treatment challenges (PDSA 3). Results. Retention increased from 17 (29.3%) in May 2016 to 60 (96.7%) in August 2016 and was maintained above 90% until May 2017 (with exception of February and May 2017 recording 100% retention levels). Conclusion. Context specific, integrated, adolescent-centered interventions implemented using QI significantly improved retention in Mid-Western Uganda.
Roles of Gasotransmitters in Synaptic Plasticity and Neuropsychiatric Conditions
Authors: Shefa Ulfuara , Kim Dokyoung , Kim Min-Sik , Jeong Na Young , Jung Junyang
Published: May 2018

Synaptic plasticity is important for maintaining normal neuronal activity and proper neuronal functioning in the nervous system. It is crucial for regulating synaptic transmission or electrical signal transduction to neuronal networks, for sharing essential information among neurons, and for maintaining homeostasis in the body. Moreover, changes in synaptic or neural plasticity are associated with many neuropsychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia (SCZ), bipolar disorder (BP), major depressive disorder (MDD), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The improper maintenance of neural plasticity causes incorrect neurotransmitter transmission, which can also cause neuropsychiatric conditions. Gas neurotransmitters (gasotransmitters), such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitric oxide (NO), and carbon monoxide (CO), play roles in maintaining synaptic plasticity and in helping to restore such plasticity in the neuronal architecture in the central nervous system (CNS). Indeed, the upregulation or downregulation of these gasotransmitters may cause neuropsychiatric conditions, and their amelioration may restore synaptic plasticity and proper neuronal functioning and thereby improve such conditions. Understanding the specific molecular mechanisms underpinning these effects can help identify ways to treat these neuropsychiatric conditions.
Food Insecurity, Nutritional Status, and Factors Associated with Malnutrition among People Living with HIV/AIDS Attending Antiretroviral Therapy at Public Health Facilities in West Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Gebremichael Delelegn Yilma , Hadush Kokeb Tesfamariam , Kebede Ermiyas Mulu , Zegeye Robel Tezera
Published: May 2018

Background. In resource limited settings, HIV/AIDS patients lack access to sufficient nutritious foods, which poses challenges to the success of antiretroviral therapy. HIV/AIDS and malnutrition are still major public health problems in Ethiopia. Though measuring nutritional status is an essential part of ART program, little evidence exists on food insecurity and nutritional status of HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia. Hence, the study aimed to determine food insecurity and nutritional status and contextual determinants of malnutrition among HIV/AIDS patients in West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. Methods. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV/ADIS patients who have been attending antiretroviral therapy at public health facilities in West Shewa Zone from April to May 2016, Ethiopia. The sample size was 512 and study participants were selected from each facilities using systematic random sampling method. Data were collected using pretested questionnaire by trained data collectors. Data were entered to Epi-Info 3.5.1 for Windows and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine independent factors associated with malnutrition. Results. Prevalence of malnutrition was 23.6% (95% CI: 19.7%–27.4%) and prevalence of household food insecurity was 35.2% (95% CI: 31.1%–39.0%). Factors significantly associated with malnutrition among HIV/AIDS patients were unemployment (AOR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.8–5.3), WHO clinical stages III/IV (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.8–6.5), CD4 count less than 350 cells/μl (AOR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.8–4.2), tuberculosis (AOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.3–4.9), duration on antiretroviral therapy (AOR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2–2.9), and household food insecurity (AOR = 5.3; 95% CI: 2.5–8.3). Conclusions. The findings revealed high prevalence of malnutrition and household food insecurity among HIV/AIDS patients attended ART. The negative interactive effects of undernutrition, inadequate food consumption, and HIV infection demand effective cross-sectorial integrated programs and effective management of opportunistic infections like tuberculosis.
High-Dose Chemotherapy with Stem Cell Rescue in Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor: A Single-Institution Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bailey Kayleen , Roth Michael , Weiser Daniel , Gill Jonathan
Published: May 2018

Purpose. Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare cancer that predominantly affects males averaging 21 years of age at the time of diagnosis. We describe four cases from our institution and place them within the context of a comprehensive review of the literature. Patients and Methods. Study population included any patient who received treatment at Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM) with histologic diagnosis of DSRCT. A search of the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and EMBASE for the terms “desmoplastic” AND “small” AND “round” AND “cell” AND “tumor” was performed. Results. One CHAM patient died of disease at 39 months, one patient has relapsed disease at 40 months, and two patients have no evidence of disease at 60 and 91 months. In the literature review, the 3-year OS was 36% and 5-year OS was 13%. There was a statistically significant difference in OS between no transplant and SCT in remission (p=0.004); however, there was no difference between no transplant and SCT not in remission (p=0.23). Conclusion. Given the poor prognosis in DSRCT, this study supports further prospective research into the possible benefit of consolidation of autologous SCT in patients with DSRCT who are in remission, with the alternative inference that these patients in remission may fare well without SCT. Our retrospective review of the literature does not support SCT for patients who are not in remission.
Water Carcinogenicity and Prevalence of HPV Infection in Esophageal Cancer Patients in Huaihe River Basin, China
Authors: Ghaffar Maliha , Li Jintao , Zhang Lei , Khodahemmati Sara , Wang Minglian , Wang Yangjunqi , Zhao Lijiao , Jia Runqing , Chen Su , Zeng Yi
Published: May 2018

Objective. The incidence of the upper gastrointestinal tumor has increased rapidly during recent decades. The relationship between local water pollution and the tumor is still not much clear, so this study was conducted to further investigate the local water pollution and its influence on the malignant cell transformation. Prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in local esophageal cancer (EC) patients was also analyzed in Shenqiu County for the first time. Methods. Two-step cell transformation was used to study different sources of water in the malignant cell transformation, and the existence of 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) in water was analyzed from the river and shallow and deep wells. HPV DNA in tissue samples of EC patients was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and HPV diagnostic kit. Results. The river water has higher cytotoxicity than the shallow well water and induced significant cell malignant transformation, while deep well water has not shown the malignant cell transformation. In Huaihe River water, the 3-MC concentration was found higher than shallow and deep wells. An HPV infection rate was found high in patients with esophageal cancer. Conclusion. Long-term consumption of polluted water can induce malignant cell transformation, and the presence of HPV may be an important cause of cancer.
Factors Affecting Inpatient Mortality in Elderly People with Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Abdul Mabood , Awan Safia , Azmat Rabeea , Khalil Muhammad Ashhad Ullah , Naseer Nazish , Tan Jackson
Published: May 2018

Background. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is common in elderly people (EP). There is paucity of data on predictor of mortality in EP with AKI. Objective. This study was done to know more about factors associated with inpatient mortality in EP with AKI. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients aged 65 years or above hospitalized with a diagnosis of AKI at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, between January 2005 and December 2010. Binary logistic regression models were constructed to identify factors associated with mortality in EP with AKI. Results. 431 patients had AKI, with 341 (79.1%) having stage I AKI, 56 (13%) having stage II AKI, and 34 (7.9%) having stage III AKI. Out of 431 patients, 142 (32.9%) died. Mortality increased with increasing severity of AKI. Mortality was 50% (17/34) in AKI stage III, 44.6% (25/56) in AKI stage II, and 29.3% (100/341) in AKI stage I. Factors associated with increased inpatients mortality were presence of stage III AKI (OR: 3.20, P=0.04, 95% CI: 1.05–9.72), presence of oliguria (OR: 3.42, P=0.006, 95% CI: 1.42–8.22), and need for vasopressors (OR: 6.90, P<0.001, 95% CI: 2.42–19.65). Median bicarbonate 18 versus 17 between those who survived and those who died was associated with less mortality (OR: 0.94, P=0.02, 95% CI: 0.89–0.99). History of hypertension (OR: 0.49, P=0.03, 95% CI: 0.25–0.95) and high admission creatinine (OR: 0.68, P=0.01, 95% CI: 0.50–0.91) were also associated with less mortality. Conclusion. Mortality in EP increases with increasing severity of AKI. Presence of stage III AKI, oliguria, and hemodynamic instability needing vasopressor are associated with increased mortality. Increased median bicarbonate, presence of hypertension, and high admission creatinine were various factors associated with decreased inpatient mortality. Increasing age and need for dialysis did not increase mortality in elderly population.
The Potential Role of miRNAs as New Biomarkers for Osteoporosis
Authors: Materozzi Maria , Merlotti Daniela , Gennari Luigi , Bianciardi Simone
Published: May 2018

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disorder affecting up to 40% of postmenopausal women, characterized by a reduction in bone mass and strength leading to bone fragility and fractures. Despite the available tools for diagnosis and stratification of a fracture risk, bone loss occurs insidiously and osteoporosis is often diagnosed after the first fracture has occurred, with important health-related outcomes. Therefore, the need of markers that could efficiently diagnose bone fragility and osteoporosis is still necessary. Over the past few years, novel studies have focused on miRNAs, small noncoding RNAs that are differentially expressed in many pathological conditions, making them attractive biomarkers. To date, the role of miRNAs in bone disorders remains in great part unclear. In particular, limited and partly conflicting information is available concerning their use as potential biomarkers for osteoporosis, due to differences in patient selection, type of samples, and analytical methods. Despite these limits, concordant information about some specific miRNAs is now arising, making likely their use as additional tools to stratify the risk of osteoporosis and possibly fractures. In this review, we summarize the most relevant studies concerning circulating miRNAs differentially expressed in osteoporotic patients along with their function in bone cells and bone turnover.
In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Melaleuca alternifolia Essential Oil
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Guo Yanjun , Guo Liying , Jiang Hui , Ji Qianhua
Published: May 2018

The in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil from Melaleuca alternifolia (M. alternifolia) was evaluated in this report. The antioxidant potential of the essential oil from M. alternifolia was evaluated by the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method, thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) assay, and the hydroxyl radical scavenging activity method. The essential oil from M. alternifolia was able to reduce DPPH with an EC50 (concentration for 50% of maximal effect) of 48.35 μg/ml, inhibit the lipid peroxidation with an IC50 (50% inhibitory concentration) of 135.9 μg/ml, and eliminate hydroxyl radicals with an EC50 of 43.71 μg/ml. Antimicrobial screening, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration assays showed that the essential oil from M. alternifolia inhibited strongly the growth of different types of microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Penicillium italicum Wehmer, and Penicillium digitatum Sacc. Thus, the essential oil of M. alternifolia possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and could be suitable for use as a natural preservative ingredient in food, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries.
Protective Effect of an Edible Tomato Plant Extract/Chitosan Coating on the Quality and Shelf Life of Sierra Fish Fillets
Authors: Ramírez-Guerra H. E. , Castillo-Yañez F. J. , Montaño-Cota E. A. , Ruíz-Cruz S. , Márquez-Ríos E. , Canizales-Rodríguez D. F. , Torres-Arreola W. , Montoya-Camacho N. , Ocaño-Higuera V. M.
Published: May 2018

The products of fishing are highly perishable foods. Thus, it is necessary to seek viable alternatives that help to preserve product freshness and quality and to increase its shelf life. One of these alternatives is the use of extracts with antimicrobial activity obtained from plants, such as tomato, which has been observed to present compounds with antimicrobial activity. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of an extract obtained from the tomato plant and incorporated into an edible chitosan coating on the quality and shelf life of the sierra fish fillet stored on ice for 15 days. For the latter, an extract was prepared with dehydrated tomato plants, which was incorporated by immersion alone or in combination with an edible chitosan-based coating in sierra fish fillets. The following treatments were applied: C (Chitosan), TPE (Tomato Plant Extract), TPE-C (TPE-Chitosan), and control (without chitosan and extract). Color, pH, WHC, ATP-related compounds, and K value were monitored during 15 days of storage on ice. Likewise, the total count of mesophiles was determined. The results indicated that treatments C, TPE, and TPE-C were significantly different (p<0.05) from lot control in terms of the concentration of ATP-related compounds, K value, pH, and total mesophilic count. We concluded that application of the extract alone or in combination with chitosan allows for the improvement of the quality and shelf life of the sierra fish fillet.
Boundary Layer Effects for the Nonlinear Evolution Equations with the Vanishing Diffusion Limit
Authors: Li Linrui , Wang Shu
Published: May 2018

We study an initial-boundary value problem for a nonlinear evolution system with damping and diffusion; our main purpose is to investigate the boundary layer effects when the vanishing diffusion limit α→0+, especially for the mixed boundary conditions; we prove that the thickness of layer is of the order O(α). Furthermore, the corresponding convergence rates are also obtained.
Evaluation of the Coating with TiO2 Nanoparticles as an Option for the Improvement of the Characteristics of NiTi Archwires: Histopathological, Cytotoxic, and Genotoxic Evidence
Authors: Morán-Martínez Javier , Beltrán del Río-Parra Roberto , Betancourt-Martínez Nadia Denys , García-Garza Rubén , Jiménez-Villarreal Joel , Niño-Castañeda María Soñadora , Nava-Rivera Lydia Enith , Facio Umaña José Alfredo , Carranza-Rosales Pilar , Arellano Pérez-Vertti Rubén Daniel
Published: May 2018

For the EPD, different voltages and different times were used. Male rats were used in four groups (n=3) with different treatments. The blood sample was obtained for genotoxic analysis and liver and kidney organs were removed for histopathological analysis. The amount of NPs TiO2 deposited on the samples of the arches increases gradually in the times of 15 and 30 s. At all voltages, however, at 45, 60, 75, and 90 s, there is an increase up to 25 V. Cell viability in lymphocytes treated with TiO2 NPs did not cause genotoxicity. In the histopathological findings of hepatic and renal tissue, nuclear alterations and necrosis were observed. The objective of the study was to improve the physical and biocompatibility characteristics of the NiTi arches for which the EPD is used. The technique for the deposition of TiO2 NPs was used, where this technique could be used as an economical and versatile way to perform homogeneous depositions even on surfaces with the complexity of the NiTi alloy. As for genotoxicity and cytotoxicity, we continue to have controversial results.
Neurorehabilitation in Parkinson’s Disease: A Critical Review of Cognitive Rehabilitation Effects on Cognition and Brain
Authors: Díez-Cirarda María , Ibarretxe-Bilbao Naroa , Peña Javier , Ojeda Natalia
Published: May 2018

Background. Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients experience cognitive impairment which has been related to reduced quality of life and functional disability. These symptoms usually progress until dementia occurs. Some studies have been published assessing the efficacy of cognitive treatments on improving cognition, functional outcome, and producing changes in brain activity. Objective. A critical review was performed to present up-to-date neurorehabilitation effects of cognitive rehabilitation in PD, with special emphasis on the efficacy on cognition, quality of life aspects, brain changes, and the longitudinal maintenance of these changes. Results. After exclusions, 13 studies were reviewed, including 6 randomized controlled trials for the efficacy on cognition, 2 randomized controlled trials regarding the brain changes after cognitive training, and 5 studies which evaluated the long-term effects of cognitive treatments. Conclusions. Cognitive rehabilitation programs have demonstrated to be effective on improving cognitive functions, but more research is needed focusing on the efficacy on improving behavioral aspects and producing brain changes in patients with PD. Moreover, there is a need of randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up periods.
Dasatinib-Induced Rhabdomyolysis in a 33-Year-Old Patient with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Joel Chandranesan Andrew Stevenson , Master Samip , Antosz Olivia , PeytonThomas Breanne , Koshy Nebu
Published: May 2018

Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening syndrome due to breakdown of the skeletal muscle. It can be caused by massive trauma and crush injuries or occur as a side effect of medications. Here, we describe a case of a 33-year-old male with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with severe life-threatening rhabdomyolysis due to a rare offending agent.
Effect of Pulsed Current Frequency and Anodisation Time on Surface Properties of Electropolished and Nonelectropolished Titanium Substrates
Authors: Marba Victória da Costa , Regone Natal N. , Codaro Eduardo N. , Acciari Heloisa A.
Published: May 2018

Surface characteristics of anodic films formed on electropolished and nonelectropolished titanium substrates have been evaluated using different sets of anodisation parameters at room temperature. Surfaces were analysed by light microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The formation of TiO2anatase phase was only detected on nonelectropolished substrates and there seems to be a larger amount of anatase as samples are anodised; consequently, the smallest crystals were obtained at the highest frequency of pulsed current. EIS results showed that there is no difference in the degree of compactness along the layer thickness.
Cold‐Sprayed Aluminum‐Silica Composite Coatings Enhance Antiwear/Anticorrosion Performances of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Fang Lijia , Xu Yuting , Gao Li , Suo Xinkun , Gong Jianguo , Li Hua
Published: May 2018

Extensive efforts devoted in recent years to booming structural applications of lightweight magnesium alloys are usually undermined by their insufficient surface properties. Surface modification is therefore necessarily required in most cases for enhanced surface integrity of the alloys. Here, we report construction of aluminum‐silica protective layers by cold spray on AZ31 magnesium alloys, and the effect of the silica additives on microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings was examined. The ceramic particles were dispersed evenly in the coatings, and increased silica content gives rise to enhanced adhesion, antiwear performances, and microhardness of the coatings. The even distribution of silica in the coatings altered the wear regimes from adhesive to abrasive wear. The cold spray fabrication of the aluminum‐silica protective coatings would facilitate structural applications of the magnesium alloys.