bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Duration of Breastfeeding, but Not Timing of Solid Food, Reduces the Risk of Overweight and Obesity in Children Aged 24 to 36 Months: Findings from an Australian Cohort Study
Authors: Bell Sarah , Yew Sarah , Devenish Gemma , Ha Diep , Do Loc , Scott Jane
Published: March 2018

This study aimed to determine whether breastfeeding duration and the timing of solid food were independently associated with being overweight or obese in early childhood. Subjects were 953 children participating in the Study of Mothers and Infants Life Events Affecting Oral Health (SMILE) birth cohort study, based in Adelaide, Australia. Socio-demographic information and data on breastfeeding duration and age of introduction of solid food were collected at birth, 3, 4, 6, 12, and 24 months via mailed or online questionnaires completed by mothers. The weight and height of children were measured at a dental examination when children were aged between 24 and 36 months. Body mass index was calculated, and children were categorised into weight groups according to the World Health Organization growth standards. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted, adjusting for maternal age at birth, education, socio-economic status, pre-pregnancy weight, smoking in pregnancy, method of delivery, and child’s birthweight. Risk of overweight/obesity was independently associated with maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, smoking in pregnancy, and birthweight. Children that were breastfed for 12 months or more had a significantly lower risk of being overweight/obese than those breastfed for less than 17 weeks (AOR 0.49; 95%CI 0.27, 0.90; p for trend =0.009). Age of introduction of solid food, however, was not associated with the risk of being overweight/obese at 24 to 36 months. This study provides further evidence of an inverse relationship between breastfeeding and risk of overweight/obesity, however, no association with the timing of solid food was detected.
Enhancing Location-Related Hydrogeological Knowledge
Authors: Kmoch Alexander , Uuemaa Evelyn , Klug Hermann , Cameron Stewart
Published: March 2018

We analyzed the corpus of three geoscientific journals to investigate if there are enough locational references in research articles to apply a geographical search method, such as the example of New Zealand. Based on all available abstracts and all freely available papers of the “New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics”, the “New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research”, and the “Journal of Hydrology, New Zealand”, we searched title, abstracts, and full texts for place name occurrences that match records from the official Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) gazetteer. We generated ISO standard compliant metadata records for each article including the spatial references and made them available in a public catalogue service. This catalogue can be queried for articles based on authors, titles, keywords, topics, and spatial reference. We visualize the results in a map to show which area the research articles are about, and how much and how densely geographic space is described through these geoscientific research articles by mapping mentioned place names by their geographic locations. We outlined the methodology and technical framework for the geo-referencing of the journal articles and the platform design for this knowledge inventory. The results indicate that the use of well-crafted abstracts for journal articles with carefully chosen place names of relevance for the article provides a guideline for geographically referencing unstructured information like journal articles and reports in order to make such resources discoverable through geographical queries. Lastly, this approach can actively support integrated holistic assessment of water resources and support decision making.
An SCFFBXO28 E3 Ligase Protects Pancreatic β-Cells from Apoptosis
Authors: Gorrepati Kanaka , He Wei , Lupse Blaz , Yuan Ting , Maedler Kathrin , Ardestani Amin
Published: March 2018

Loss of pancreatic β-cell function and/or mass is a central hallmark of all forms of diabetes but its molecular basis is incompletely understood. β-cell apoptosis contributes to the reduced β-cell mass in diabetes. Therefore, the identification of important signaling molecules that promote β-cell survival in diabetes could lead to a promising therapeutic intervention to block β-cell decline during development and progression of diabetes. In the present study, we identified F-box protein 28 (FBXO28), a substrate-recruiting component of the Skp1-Cul1-F-box (SCF) ligase complex, as a regulator of pancreatic β-cell survival. FBXO28 was down-regulated in β-cells and in isolated human islets under diabetic conditions. Consistently, genetic silencing of FBXO28 impaired β-cell survival, and restoration of FBXO28 protected β-cells from the harmful effects of the diabetic milieu. Although FBXO28 expression positively correlated with β-cell transcription factor NEUROD1 and FBXO28 depletion also reduced insulin mRNA expression, neither FBXO28 overexpression nor depletion had any significant impact on insulin content, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) or on other genes involved in glucose sensing and metabolism or on important β-cell transcription factors in isolated human islets. Consistently, FBXO28 overexpression did not further alter insulin content and GSIS in freshly isolated islets from patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Our data show that FBXO28 improves pancreatic β-cell survival under diabetogenic conditions without affecting insulin secretion, and its restoration may be a novel therapeutic tool to promote β-cell survival in diabetes.
Lynch Syndrome-Related Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix: A Case Report
Authors: Nakamura Kohei , Nakayama Kentaro , Minamoto Toshiko , Ishibashi Tomoka , Ohnishi Kaori , Yamashita Hitomi , Ono Ruriko , Sasamori Hiroki , Razia Sultana , Hossain Mohammad Mahmud , Kamrunnahar Shanta , Ishikawa Masako , Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Kyo Satoru
Published: March 2018

Lynch syndrome, a hereditary cancer syndrome, occurs because of germline mutations in at least one of four DNA mismatch repair genes (MutL Homolog 1 (MLH1), MutS Homolog 2 (MSH2), MutS Homolog 6 (MSH6), and PMS1 Homolog 2 (PMS2)). The disorder is associated with colorectal, endometrial, and other epithelial malignancies, but not cervical cancer. We report a woman with Lynch syndrome with synchronous cervical cancer. This is the first report of Lynch syndrome-related clear cell carcinoma of the cervix, which indicates the possibility of an association between cervical cancer and Lynch syndrome. Suitable genetic tests are required to determine whether common genetics can account for synchronous or subsequent malignancies in Lynch syndrome patients and their families. Such knowledge will also enhance our understanding of the genetic mechanisms governing the development of apparently unrelated cancers.
Identification of Dysregulated microRNA Networks in Schwann Cell-Like Cultures Exposed to Immune Challenge: Potential Crosstalk with the Protective VIP/PACAP Neuropeptide System
Authors: Musumeci Giuseppe , Leggio Gian , Marzagalli Rubina , Al-Badri Ghaith , Drago Filippo , Castorina Alessandro
Published: March 2018

Following peripheral nerve injury, dysregulations of certain non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) occur in Schwann cells. Whether these alterations are the result of local inflammation and/or correlate with perturbations in the expression profile of the protective vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)/pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) system is currently unknown. To address these issues, we aimed at profiling the expression of selected miRNAs in the rat RT4 Schwann cell line. Cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), to mimic the local inflammatory milieu, were appraised by real-time qPCR, Western blot and ELISAs. We found that upon LPS treatment, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, -6, -18, -17A, MCP-1 and TNFα) increased in a time-dependent manner. Unexpectedly, the expression levels of VIP and PACAP were also increased. Conversely, levels of VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors were reduced. Downregulated miRNAs included miR-181b, -145, -27a, -340 and -132 whereas upregulated ones were miR-21, -206, -146a, -34a, -155, -204 and -29a, respectively. Regression analyses revealed that a subset of the identified miRNAs inversely correlated with the expression of VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. In conclusion, these findings identified a novel subset of miRNAs that are dysregulated by immune challenge whose activities might elicit a regulatory function on the VIP/PACAP system.
The Horizon of a Therapy for Rare Genetic Diseases: A “Druggable” Future for Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva
Authors: Cappato Serena , Giacopelli Francesca , Ravazzolo Roberto , Bocciardi Renata
Published: March 2018

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic condition characterized by progressive extra-skeletal ossification leading to cumulative and severe disability. FOP has an extremely variable and episodic course and can be induced by trauma, infections, iatrogenic harms, immunization or can occur in an unpredictable way, without any recognizable trigger. The causative gene is ACVR1, encoding the Alk-2 type I receptor for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). The signaling is initiated by BMP binding to a receptor complex consisting of type I and II molecules and can proceed into the cell through two main pathways, a canonical, SMAD-dependent signaling and a p38-mediated cascade. Most FOP patients carry the recurrent R206H substitution in the receptor Glycine-Serine rich (GS) domain, whereas a few other mutations are responsible for a limited number of cases. Mutations cause a dysregulation of the downstream BMP-dependent pathway and make mutated ACVR1 responsive to a non-canonical ligand, Activin A. There is no etiologic treatment for FOP. However, many efforts are currently ongoing to find specific therapies targeting the receptor activity and the downstream aberrant pathway at different levels or targeting cellular components and/or processes that are important in modifying the local environment leading to bone neo-formation.
Low Serum Levels of (Dihydro-)Ceramides Reflect Liver Graft Dysfunction in a Real-World Cohort of Patients Post Liver Transplantation
Authors: Mücke Victoria , Gerharz Janis , Jakobi Katja , Thomas Dominique , Ferreirós Bouzas Nerea , Mücke Marcus , Trötschler Sven , Weiler Nina , Welker Martin-Walter , Zeuzem Stefan , Pfeilschifter Josef , Grammatikos Georgios
Published: March 2018

Patients after orthopic liver transplantation (OLT) are at risk of developing graft dysfunction. Sphingolipids (SL’s) have been identified to play a pivotal role in the regulation of hepatocellular apoptosis, inflammation and immunity. We aimed to investigate the serum SL profile in a prospective real-world cohort of post-OLT patients. From October 2015 until July 2016, 149 well-characterized post-OLT patients were analyzed. SL’s were assessed in serum probes via Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Twenty-nine (20%) patients had a biopsy proven graft rejection with decreased C20-ceramide (Cer) (p = 0.042), C18-dihydroceramide (DHC) (p = 0.022) and C24DHC (p = 0.060) levels. Furthermore, C18DHC (p = 0.044) and C24DHC (p = 0.011) were significantly down-regulated in patients with ischemic type biliary lesions (ITBL; n = 15; 10%). One-hundred and thirty-three patients (89%) have so far received tacrolimus as the main immunosuppressive agent with observed elevations of C14Cer (p = 0.052), C18Cer (p = 0.049) and C18:1Cer (p = 0.024). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pre-OLT was associated with increases in C24:1Cer (p = 0.024) and C24:1DHC (p = 0.024). In this large prospective cross-sectional study of patients, post-OLT serum levels of (very-)long chain (dihydro-)ceramides associate with graft rejection, ITBL, tacrolimus intake and HCC pre-OLT. Hence, serum SL’s may be indicative of graft complications. Further research is necessary to identify their diverse mechanistic role in regulating immunity and inflammation in patients post-OLT.
Parental Nitrogen Transfer and Apparent Absence of N2 Fixation during Colony Foundation in Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki
Authors: Mullins Aaron , Su Nan-Yao
Published: March 2018

Colony foundation and early growth is a critical period in the life-cycle of a termite colony, as the initial family unit is resource limited. One such resource is nitrogen, which is essential for initial colony growth. This study examined the whole-colony nitrogen inventory during foundation and early growth of Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki colonies. It was hypothesized that termite colonies would go through an initial period of parental investment, representing a transfer of nitrogen to the first brood, and that once a functional worker caste was present, further provisioning in the form of intrinsic N2 fixation would occur. Our results showed that, when in nitrogen-poor rearing conditions, the king and queen initially transferred half of their nitrogen reserves to their first brood. However, the total nitrogen content in colonies did not increase over a 12 month period, despite the presence of functional workers. Furthermore, colonies did not increase their biomass beyond the initial parental investment. Together, these results imply that nitrogen acquisition in incipient C. formosanus colonies relies on environmental or dietary sources, rather than the putative fixation through symbiotic diazotrophs.
A Low-Cost, Simplified Platform of Interchangeable, Ambient Ionization Sources for Rapid, Forensic Evidence Screening on Portable Mass Spectrometric Instrumentation
Authors: Fedick Patrick , Fatigante William , Lawton Zachary , O’Leary Adam , Hall Seth. , Bain Ryan , Ayrton Stephen , Ludwig Joseph , Mulligan Christopher
Published: March 2018

Portable mass spectrometers (MS) are becoming more prevalent due to improved instrumentation, commercialization, and the robustness of new ionization methodologies. To increase utility towards diverse field-based applications, there is an inherent need for rugged ionization source platforms that are simple, yet robust towards analytical scenarios that may arise. Ambient ionization methodologies have evolved to target specific real-world problems and fulfill requirements of the analysis at hand. Ambient ionization techniques continue to advance towards higher performance, with specific sources showing variable proficiency depending on application area. To realize the full potential and applicability of ambient ionization methods, a selection of sources may be more prudent, showing a need for a low-cost, flexible ionization source platform. This manuscript describes a centralized system that was developed for portable MS systems that incorporates modular, rapidly-interchangeable ionization sources comprised of low-cost, commercially-available parts. Herein, design considerations are reported for a suite of ambient ionization sources that can be crafted with minimal machining or customization. Representative spectral data is included to demonstrate applicability towards field processing of forensic evidence. While this platform is demonstrated on portable instrumentation, retrofitting to lab-scale MS systems is anticipated.
Capillary Characterization of Fibrous Reinforcement and Optimization of Injection Strategy in Resin Transfer Molding
Authors: Causse Philippe , Ravey Christophe , Trochu François
Published: March 2018

During composite manufacturing, minimizing the residual void content is a key issue to ensure optimal mechanical performance of final products. For injection processes such as Resin Transfer Molding (RTM), the impregnation velocity has a direct impact on void creation at the flow front by mechanical entrapment of air bubbles. Previous work proposed to study capillary imbibition in fibrous reinforcement to determine optimal filling conditions during practical manufacturing. The objective of this study is to investigate further this possibility. For that purpose, an improved experimental procedure is proposed to estimate the optimal impregnation velocity from capillary rise tests and understand its effect in parts of varying geometry. Capillary rise experiments were carried out with an enhanced experimental protocol, and a new post processing technique was evaluated to analyze the results. The position of the capillary flow front was then used to deduce the optimal impregnation velocity range based on the Lucas-Washburn flow model. A series of injections were also carried out with a laboratory scale RTM mold to study the influence of flow velocity on the residual void content. Results show that the prediction from capillary characterization is close to the optimal velocity value deduced from manufacturing experiments. The study also highlights the importance of void transport during processing and suggests that the injection strategy (i.e., flow rate history) and the mold configuration (i.e., divergent versus convergent flow) are important process parameters that may influence void content and cycle time.
Photocatalytic Activity of Nanotubular TiO2 Films Obtained by Anodic Oxidation: A Comparison in Gas and Liquid Phase
Authors: Sanabria Arenas Beatriz , Strini Alberto , Schiavi Luca , Li Bassi Andrea , Russo Valeria , Del Curto Barbara , Diamanti Maria , Pedeferri MariaPia
Published: March 2018

The availability of immobilized nanostructured photocatalysts is of great importance in the purification of both polluted air and liquids (e.g., industrial wastewaters). Metal-supported titanium dioxide films with nanotubular morphology and good photocatalytic efficiency in both environments can be produced by anodic oxidation, which avoids release of nanoscale materials in the environment. Here we evaluate the effect of different anodizing procedures on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanostructures in gas and liquid phases, in order to identify the most efficient and robust technique for the production of TiO2 layers with different morphologies and high photocatalytic activity in both phases. Rhodamine B and toluene were used as model pollutants in the two media, respectively. It was found that the role of the anodizing electrolyte is particularly crucial, as it provides substantial differences in the oxide specific surface area: nanotubular structures show remarkably different activities, especially in gas phase degradation reactions, and within nanotubular structures, those produced by organic electrolytes lead to better photocatalytic activity in both conditions tested.
Curing Effects on Interfacial Adhesion between Recycled Carbon Fiber and Epoxy Resin Heated by Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Tominaga Yuichi , Shimamoto Daisuke , Hotta Yuji
Published: March 2018

The interfacial adhesion of recycled carbon fiber (CF) reinforced epoxy composite heated by microwave (MW) irradiation were investigated by changing the curing state of the epoxy resin. The recycled CF was recovered from the composite, which was prepared by vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding, by thermal degradation at 500 or 600 °C. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the heating at 600 °C caused rough damage to the CF surface, whereas recycled CF recovered at 500 °C have few defects. The interfacial shear strength (IFSS) between recycled CF and epoxy resin was measured by a single-fiber fragmentation test. The test specimen was heated by MW after mixing the epoxy resin with a curing agent or pre-curing, in order to investigate the curing effects on the matrix resin. The IFSSs of the MW-irradiated samples were significantly varied by the curing state of the epoxy resin and the surface condition of recycled CF, resulting that they were 99.5 to 131.7% of oven heated samples Furthermore, rheological measurements showed that the viscosity and shrinking behaviors of epoxy resin were affected based on the curing state of epoxy resin before MW irradiation.
Study of Adsorption Mechanism of Congo Red on Graphene Oxide/PAMAM Nanocomposite
Authors: Rafi Mohammad , Samiey Babak , Cheng Chil-Hung
Published: March 2018

Graphene oxide/poly(amidoamine) (GO/PAMAM) nanocomposite adsorbed high quantities of congo red (CR) anionic dye in 0.1 M NaCl solution, with the maximum adsorption capacity of 198 mg·g−1. The kinetics and thermodynamics of adsorption were investigated to elucidate the effects of pH, temperature, shaking rate, ionic strength, and contact time. Kinetic data were analyzed by the KASRA model and the KASRA, ISO, and pore-diffusion equations. Adsorption adsorption isotherms were studied by the ARIAN model and the Henry, Langmuir, and Temkin equations. It was shown that adsorption sites of GO/PAMAM at experimental conditions were phenolic hydroxyl groups of GO sheets and terminal amine groups of PAMAM dendrimer. Analysis of kinetic data indicated that amine sites were located on the surface, and that hydroxyl sites were placed in the pores of adsorbent. CR molecules interacted with the adsorption sites via hydrogen bonds. The molecules were adsorbed firstly on the amine sites, and then on the internal hydroxyl sites. Adsorption kinetic parameters indicated that the interaction of CR to the –NH3+ sites was the rate-controlling step of adsorption of CR on this site and adsorption activation energies calculated for different parts of this step. On the other hand, kinetic parameters showed that the intraparticle diffusion was the rate-controlling step during the interaction of CR molecules to –OH sites and activation energy of this step was not calculable. Finally, the used GO/PAMAM was completely regenerated by using ethylenediamine.
Rotating Bending Fatigue Microscopic Fracture Characteristics and Life Prediction of 7075-T7351 Al Alloy
Authors: Yang Huihui , Zhang Zhihao , Tan Changhao , Ito Makoto , Pan Pan , Wang Xishu
Published: March 2018

Rotating bending fatigue tests were carried out by using the 7075-T7351 Al alloy with a microarc oxidation (MAO) coating (h = 10 μm) and with no coating. Tests were conducted in air and 5.0% NaCl aqueous solution conditions. The fatigue microscopic fracture behavior of the metals was investigated by using scanning electron microscope and three-dimensional digital microscope technologies. The empirical formulas between the stress intensity factor ΔK and the fatigue life Nf in the different conditions were obtained. In addition, the reason for data scattering in the fatigue lives of uncoated 7075-T7351 samples under the same stress amplitude in air was analyzed. Furthermore, the fatigue characteristic life of 7075-T7351 alloy was predicted by the three-parameter Weibull distribution model.
Biodegradable Metallic Wires in Dental and Orthopedic Applications: A Review
Authors: Asgari Mohammad , Hang Ruiqiang , Wang Chang , Yu Zhentao , Li Zhiyong , Xiao Yin
Published: March 2018

Owing to significant advantages of bioactivity and biodegradability, biodegradable metallic materials such as magnesium, iron, and zinc and their alloys have been widely studied over recent years. Metallic wires with superior tensile strength and proper ductility can be fabricated by a traditional metalworking process (drawing). Drawn biodegradable metallic wires are popular biodegradable materials, which are promising in different clinical applications such as orthopedic fixation, surgical staples, cardiovascular stents, and aneurysm occlusion. This paper presents recent advances associated with the application of biodegradable metallic wires used in dental and orthopedic fields. Furthermore, the effects of some parameters such as the surface modification, alloying elements, and fabrication process affecting the degradation rate as well as biocompatibility, bioactivity, and mechanical stability are reviewed in the most recent works pertaining to these materials. Finally, possible pathways for future studies regarding the production of more efficient biodegradable metallic wires in the regeneration of bone defects are also proposed.
Mean Stress Effect on the Axial Fatigue Strength of DIN 34CrNiMo6 Quenched and Tempered Steel
Authors: Pallarés-Santasmartas Luis , Albizuri Joseba , Avilés Alexander , Avilés Rafael
Published: March 2018

The present study consists of a theoretical and experimental investigation of the effect of axial mean stresses on the high cycle fatigue behaviour of DIN 34CrNiMo6 high strength steel in quenched and tempered conditions. The axial S-N curves under 4 different stresses ratios were obtained. Experimental results show that increasing the value of the tension mean stresses gradually reduces the axial stress amplitude the material can withstand without failure. Moreover, the compressive mean stresses show a beneficial effect in terms of the axial fatigue strength, resulting in a non-symmetrical Haigh diagram. A historic review of the axial mean stress effect is presented, showing the shape of the Haigh diagrams for ductile metals and presenting the most-known empirical and physical theories. The results for this steel are compared with the physical theories of Findley based on the critical plane; the Froustey’s and Marin’s methods, based on energetic theories; and the Crossland invariants method based on the Gough’s theory of fatigue damage. Taking into account the experimental results, a physical fatigue function based on energetic considerations is proposed. Its application to the fatigue case with mean stresses can be interpreted in terms of a balance of elastic energies of distortion and volume change. Macro-analyses of specimen fracture appearance were conducted in order to obtain the fracture characteristics for different mean stress values.
Numerical Analysis of Stress Gradient and Traps Effects on Carbon Diffusion in AISI 316L during Low Temperature Gas Phase Carburization
Authors: Peng Yawei , Gong Jianming , Chen Chaoming , Liu Zhe , Jiang Yong
Published: March 2018

In order to elucidate the roles of the composition-induced stress gradient and the traps formed by chromium atoms in carbon diffusion in AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel during low temperature gas phase carburization, the carbon concentration-depth profiles were analyzed by a diffusion model considering the composition-induced stress gradient and the trapping effect. The results show that the carbon concentration-depth profiles calculated by this model show good agreement with the experimental results. The composition-induced compressive stress gradient can enhance the carbon diffusion but reduce the surface carbon concentration; these effects are not pronounced. Carbon atoms prefer to occupy the trap sites, and the detrapping activation energy (Qt = 33 kJ·mol−1) was deduced from fitting the experimental carbon concentration-depth profile. Furthermore, this applied diffusion model can be used to interpret the enhanced carbon diffusion in low temperature carburized AISI 316L.
Optofluidics in Microstructured Optical Fibers
Authors: Shao Liyang , Liu Zhengyong , Hu Jie , Gunawardena Dinusha , Tam Hwa-Yaw
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we review the development and applications of optofluidics investigated based on the platform of microstructured optical fibers (MOFs) that have miniature air channels along the light propagating direction. The flexibility of the customizable air channels of MOFs provides enough space to implement light-matter interaction, as fluids and light can be guided simultaneously along a single strand of fiber. Different techniques employed to achieve the fluidic inlet/outlet as well as different applications for biochemical analysis are presented. This kind of miniature platform based on MOFs is easy to fabricate, free of lithography, and only needs a tiny volume of the sample. Compared to optofluidics on the chip, no additional waveguide is necessary to guide the light since the core is already designed in MOFs. The measurements of flow rate, refractive index of the filled fluids, and chemical reactions can be carried out based on this platform. Furthermore, it can also demonstrate some physical phenomena. Such devices show good potential and prospects for applications in bio-detection as well as material analysis.
Investigation on Surface Integrity of Rapidly Solidified Aluminum RSA 905 by Magnetic Field-Assisted Finishing
Authors: Guo Jiang , Wang Hao , Goh Min , Liu Kui
Published: March 2018

RSA 905, a rapidly solidified aluminum alloy, has been widely utilized in optical, automotive, and aerospace industries owing to its superior mechanical properties such as hardness and strength compared to conventional aluminum alloys. However, the surface finishing of RSA 905 to achieve submicron surface roughness is quite challenging and was rarely addressed. This paper presents an experimental and analytical study on magnetic field-assisted finishing (MFAF) of RSA 905 through a systematic investigation on surface integrity in relation to the MFAF process parameters. The effect of abrasive and polishing speed conditions on material removal and surface roughness was quantitatively investigated. The surface and subsurface quality were evaluated by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations, residual stress measurement, surface microhardness and tribology test. The results show that relatively high material removal and low surface roughness were obtained under conditions using the SiC abrasive with a grit size of 12 µm at polishing speed of 400 rpm or using the Al2O3 abrasive with a grit size of 5 µm at polishing speed of 800 rpm. Heat melt layer caused by wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) during the sample preparation was removed by MFAF without inducing new subsurface damage. The MFAF process also helps release the surface residual stress and improve the tribological performance although the surface microhardness was slightly reduced.
Expression of Pinellia pedatisecta Lectin Gene in Transgenic Wheat Enhances Resistance to Wheat Aphids
Authors: Duan Xiaoliang , Hou Qiling , Liu Guoyu , Pang Xiaomeng , Niu Zhenli , Wang Xiao , Zhang Yufeng , Li Baoyun , Liang Rongqi
Published: March 2018

Wheat aphids are major pests during the seed filling stage of wheat. Plant lectins are toxic to sap-sucking pests such as wheat aphids. In this study, Pinellia pedatisecta agglutinin (ppa), a gene encoding mannose binding lectin, was cloned, and it shared 92.69% nucleotide similarity and 94% amino acid similarity with Pinellia ternata agglutinin (pta). The ppa gene, driven by the constitutive and phloem-specific ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase small subunit gene (rbcs) promoter in pBAC-rbcs-ppa expression vector, was transferred into the wheat cultivar Baofeng104 (BF104) by particle bombardment transformation. Fifty-four T0 transgenic plants were generated. The inheritance and expression of the ppa gene were confirmed by PCR and RT-PCR analysis respectively, and seven homozygous transgenic lines were obtained. An aphid bioassay on detached leaf segments revealed that seven ppa transgenic wheat lines had lower aphid growth rates and higher inhibition rates than BF104. Furthermore, two-year aphid bioassays in isolated fields showed that aphid numbers per tiller of transgenic lines were significantly decreased, compared with wild type BF104. Therefore, ppa could be a strong biotechnological candidate to produce aphid-resistant wheat.
Molecular Mechanisms of Melatonin Protection from Gastric Mucosal Apoptotic Injury in Experimental Burns
Authors: Hristova Minka , Tzaneva Maria , Bekyarova Ganka , Chivchibashi Dariya , Stefanova Nadezhda , Kiselova-Kaneva Yoana
Published: March 2018

Melatonin, a basic secretory pineal gland product, is a nontoxic, multifunctional molecule. It has antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities and protects tissues from injury. The objective of the present study was to determine the molecular mechanism of melatonin anti-apoptotic effect on gastric injury in a rat burn model. We hypothesized that melatonin gastric protection may be related to the activation of transcription erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Using a 30% total body surface area (TBSA) rat burn model, melatonin (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was injected immediately and 12 h after thermal skin injury. Via light immunohistochemistry, we determined the tissue level of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) as a marker of lipid peroxidation, Bcl-2 and Bax as apoptosis-related proteins, and Nrf2. Results are presented as medians (interquartile range (IQR)). Thermal trauma in burned animals, compared with the controls, increased the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax protein (1.37 (0.94–1.47)), decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein (1.16 (1.06–1.23), p < 0.001) in epithelial cells, and elevated Bax/Bcl-2 ratios (p < 0.05). Tissue 4-HNE and Nrf2 levels were increased following severe burns (1.55 (0.98–1.61) and 1.16 (1.01–1.25), p < 0.05, respectively). Melatonin significantly decreased 4-HNE (0.87 (0.74–0.96), p < 0.01) and upregulated Nrf2 (1.55 (1.52–1.65), p < 0.001) levels. It also augmented Bax (1.68 (1.5–1.8), p < 0.001) and Bcl-2 expressions (1.96 (1.89–2.01), p < 0.0001), but reduced Bax/Bcl-2 ratios (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that experimental thermal trauma induces oxidative gastric mucosal injury. Melatonin manifests a gastroprotective effect through Nrf2 activation, lipid peroxidation attenuation, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio modification as well.
Economy of Catalyst Synthesis—Convenient Access to Libraries of Di- and Tetranaphtho Azepinium Compounds
Authors: Tharamak Sorachat , Knittl-Frank Christian , Manaprasertsak Auraya , Pengsook Anchulee , Suchy Lydia , Schuller Philipp , Happl Barbara , Roller Alexander , Widhalm Michael
Published: March 2018

Efficient optimization procedures in chiral catalysis are usually linked to a straightforward strategy to access groups of structurally similar catalysts required for fine-tuning. The ease of building up such ligand libraries can be increased when the structure-modifying step (introduction of a substituent) is done at a later stage of the synthesis. This is demonstrated for the extended family of di- and tetranaphtho azepinium compounds, widely used as chiral phase transfer catalysts (PTC). Using 2,6-diiodo-4,5-dihydro-3H-dinaphtho[2,1-c:1′,2′-e]azepine and 4,8-diiodo-6,7-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[c,e]azepine, respectively, as key intermediates, 18 spiro-azepinium compounds were synthesized in a total yield of 25–42% over 6–7 steps from 1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-dicarboxylic acid or diphenic acid, respectively. The replacement of iodo groups with aryl substituents was performed as the last or the penultimate step of the synthesis.
Rhamnellosides A and B, ω-Phenylpentaene Fatty Acid Amide Diglycosides from the Fruits of Rhamnella franguloides
Authors: Kang Kyo , Gao Ming , Kim Geum , Choi Hyukjae , Sung Sang
Published: March 2018

Two new ω-phenylpentaene fatty acid amide diglycosides, rhamnellosides A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the fruits of Rhamnella franguloides (Rhamnaceae). These compounds were prioritized using LC-MS/MS molecular networking dereplication based on our previous discovery of 2-acetoxy-ω-phenylpentaene fatty acid triglycosides berchemiosides A−C from a phylogenetically related species, Berchemia berchemiifolia. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses in combination with chemical derivatization. The pentaene groups of 1 and 2 were found to have (6E, 8E, 10Z, 12Z, 14E)-geometry, which is the same as that found in berchemioside A.
Physicochemical Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Humic Acids Isolated from Peat of Various Origins
Authors: Zykova Maria , Schepetkin Igor , Belousov Mikhail , Krivoshchekov Sergey , Logvinova Lyudmila , Bratishko Kristina , Yusubov Mekhman , Romanenko Sergey , Quinn Mark
Published: March 2018

Although humic acids (HAs) from peat exhibit various therapeutic properties, there is little information available concerning their physicochemical and antioxidant properties. To address this issue, nine different types of peat, including oligotrophic, mesotrophic, and minerotrophic peat samples, were used for isolation of HA fractions by basic (HAb) and pyrophosphate (HAp) extractions. Physical parameters of the HAs were analyzed by UV-Vis, fluorescent, infrared (IR), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Average Mr of the fractions ranged from 17.2 to 39.7 kDa, while their humification index (HIX) varied from 0.49 to 1.21. HAp fractions had a higher content of aromatic structures compared to HAb fractions. Moreover, HAp fractions had a significantly higher content of phenolic OH groups (3.6 ± 0.5 mmol/g) versus HAb (3.1 ± 0.5 mmol/g). All HA fractions exhibited antioxidant activity in radical scavenging and electrochemical assays, and their EPR signal had a single line with g = 2.0035, which is consistent with semiquinone type radicals. Furthermore, the HIX was found to be important in determining the number of semiquinone-type free radicals in the HA structures. Overall, these data provide a molecular basis to explain at least part of the beneficial therapeutic properties of peat-derived HAs.
Thylakoid-Deposited Micro-Pillar Electrodes for Enhanced Direct Extraction of Photosynthetic Electrons
Authors: Ryu DongHyun , Kim Yong , Kim Seon , Hong Hyeonaug , Ahn Hyun , Kim Kyunghoon , Ryu WonHyoung
Published: March 2018

Photosynthesis converts solar energy to electricity in a highly efficient manner. Since only water is needed as fuel for energy conversion, this highly efficient energy conversion process has been rigorously investigated. In particular, photosynthetic apparatus, such as photosystem II (PSII), photosystem I (PSI), or thylakoids, have been isolated from various plants to construct bio-hybrid anodes. Although PSII or PSI decorated anodes have shown potentials, there still remain challenges, such as poor stability of PSII-based systems or need for electron donors other than water molecules of PSI-based systems. Thylakoid membranes are relatively stable after isolation and they contain all the necessary photosynthetic apparatus including the PSII and PSI. To increase electrical connections between thylakoids and anodes, nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, nanowires, nanoparticles, or graphene have been employed. However, since they rely on the secondary electrical connections between thylakoids and anodes; it is desired to achieve larger direct contacts between them. Here, we aimed to develop micro-pillar (MP) array anodes to maximize direct contact with thylakoids. The thylakoid morphology was analyzed and the MP array was designed to maximize direct contact with thylakoids. The performance of MP anodes and a photosynthetic fuel cell based on MP electrodes was demonstrated and analyzed.
Liquid Phase Plasma Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Nitrogen-Doped Activated Carbon Resulting in Nanocomposite for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Lee Heon , Lee Won-June , Park Young-Kwon , Ki Seo , Kim Byung-Joo , Jung Sang-Chul
Published: March 2018

Iron oxide nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped activated carbon powder were synthesized using an innovative plasma-in-liquid method, called the liquid phase plasma (LPP) method. Nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) was prepared by a primary LPP reaction using an ammonium chloride reactant solution, and an iron oxide/NC composite (IONCC) was prepared by a secondary LPP reaction using an iron chloride reactant solution. The nitrogen component at 3.77 at. % formed uniformly over the activated carbon (AC) surface after a 1 h LPP reaction. Iron oxide nanoparticles, 40~100 nm in size, were impregnated homogeneously over the NC surface after the LPP reaction, and were identified as Fe3O4 by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. NC and IONCCs exhibited pseudo-capacitive characteristics, and their specific capacitance and cycling stability were superior to those of bare AC. The nitrogen content on the NC surface increased the compatibility and charge transfer rate, and the composites containing iron oxide exhibited a lower equivalent series resistance.
Aligned P(VDF-TrFE) Nanofibers for Enhanced Piezoelectric Directional Strain Sensing
Authors: Jiang Yonggang , Gong Longlong , Hu Xiaohe , Zhao Yong , Chen Huawei , Feng Lin , Zhang Deyuan
Published: March 2018

Piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) nanofibers fabricated by electrospinning have drawn increasing levels of attention in the fields of flexible sensors and nanogenerators. However, the directional dependence of piezoelectricity of electrospun nanofibers remains elusive. In this study, the piezoelectric performances of individual nanofibers are characterized by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), while the effects of annealing on β-phase crystallinities are investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The experimental results reveal that the as-spun P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers form higher content of β-phase compared with spin-coated films, and the content of β-phase increases by annealing. The annealed P(VDF-TrFE) nanofiber exhibits distinct vertical polarization switching characteristics. The high piezoelectric output in the thickness direction and low piezoelectric output in the longitudinal direction of the nanofiber mats further confirm that the preferential dipole orientation of electrospun P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers is normal to the surface of the substrate. Highly aligned P(VDF-TrFE) nanofibers show directional strain sensing ability due to the piezoelectric and mechanical anisotropy.
Transport Asymmetry of Novel Bi-Layer Hybrid Perfluorinated Membranes on the Base of MF-4SC Modified by Halloysite Nanotubes with Platinum
Authors: Filippov Anatoly , Petrova Daria , Falina Irina , Kononenko Natalia , Ivanov Evgenii , Lvov Yuri , Vinokurov Vladimir
Published: March 2018

Three types of bi-layer hybrid nanocomposites on the base of perfluorinated cation-exchange membrane MF-4SC (Russian analogue of Nafion®-117) were synthesized and characterized. It was found that two membranes possess the noticeable asymmetry of the current–voltage curve (CVC) under changing their orientation towards the applied electric field, despite the absence of asymmetry of diffusion permeability. These phenomena were explained in the frame of the “fine-porous model” expanded for bi-layer membranes. A special procedure to calculate the real values of the diffusion layers thickness and the limiting current density was proposed. Due to asymmetry effects of the current voltage curves of bi-layer hybrid membranes on the base of MF-4SC, halloysite nanotubes and platinum nanoparticles, it is prospective to assemble membrane switches (membrane relays or diodes) with predictable transport properties, founded upon the theory developed here.
Conclusion
Authors: Pace Enzo
Published: March 2018

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Towards a Rational Kingdom in Africa: Knowledge, Critical Rationality and Development in a Twenty-First Century African Cultural Context
Authors: Ugwuanyi Lawrence
Published: March 2018

This paper seeks to locate the kind of knowledge that is relevant for African development in the twenty-first century African cultural context and to propose the paradigm for achieving such knowledge. To do this, it advances the view that the concept of twenty-first century in an African context must be located with the colonial and post-colonial challenges of the African world and applied to serve the African demand. Anchored on this position, the paper outlines and critiques the wrong assumption on which modern state project was anchored in post-colonial Africa and its development dividend to suggest that this is an outcome of a wrong knowledge design that is foundational to the state project and which the project did not address. It proposes a shift in the knowledge paradigm in Africa and suggests critical self-consciousness as a more desirable knowledge design for Africa. It applies the term ‘rational kingdom’ (defined as a community of reason marked by critical conceptual self-awareness driven by innovation and constructivism) to suggest this paradigm. ‘Innovation’ is meant as the application of reason with an enlarged capacity to anticipate and address problems with fresh options and ‘constructivism’ is meant as the disposition to sustain innovation by advancing an alternative but more reliable worldview that can meet the exigencies of modernity in an African cultural context. The paper then proceeds to outline the nature of the rational kingdom and its anticipated gains and outcomes. It applies the method of inductive reasoning to advance its position. To do this it invokes selected but crucial areas of African life to locate how the developmental demands of these aspects of life suggest a critical turn in African rationality.
Endocervical Cavity Anomaly Mimicking the Uterine Cavity and Delaying Diagnosis of Endometrial Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Ding Dah-Ching , Chu Tang-Yuan , Hong Mun-Kun
Published: March 2018

We report a rare case of endometrial cancer in an endocervical anomaly with a dilated and isolated endocervical cavity mimicking the uterine cavity. A 75-year-old woman suffered from persistent brownish watery vaginal discharge. The cytology of the fluid showed some atypical cells, and trans-vaginal ultrasonography disclosed two distinct compartments in the pelvis. Under the impression of hematometra and adnexal cystic tumor with solid part, dilation and curettage (D&C) was done, but the pathology showed no evidence of malignancy. Although the hematometra and adnexal cyst disappeared afterward, the patient returned to the clinic with a complaint of persistent vaginal fluid two months later, and trans-rectal ultrasound revealed a cystic tumor with solid part again. Finally, endometrioid adenocarcinoma of endometrium was diagnosed by diagnostic laparoscopy and hysterectomy. This work highlights our experience in the diagnostic process and calls attention to the possibility of an occult endometrial cancer when evaluating postmenopausal women with continuous abnormal watery vaginal fluid and/or atypical cells shown in vaginal fluid cytology.
Type A Aortic Dissection Presenting with Neurological Symptoms Mimicking Stroke and Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Tsai Ying-Wei , Lee Ling-Chi , Chien Yung-Chang , Chen Yu-Long , Hou Yueh-Tseng , Yiang Giou-Teng
Published: March 2018

Acute aortic dissection is a rare but lethal cardiac disease involving the aorta, which presents with typical symptoms, including severe, sharp, or tearing acute onset of chest or back pain. Other unspecific symptoms, such as epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting, may be also present. Neurologic symptoms induced by aortic dissection are also present in rare cases but often lead to delate diagnosis because they mimic stroke and intracranial hemorrhage. Therefore, it is important to understand acute aortic dissection-induced neurologic symptoms. Here, we present a case of a 60-year-old male who presented with an acute onset of progressive flaccid hemiplegia on the left side accompanied with slurred speech. Brain computed tomography showed widening of the cortical sulci and dilatation of the ventricles, without intracranial hemorrhage. When waiting for thrombolysis or thrombectomy intervention, acute chest pain was noted. After management, type A dissection from ascending aorta with extension to the right external iliac artery was noted in computed tomography angiography, which also involved the brachiocephalic trunk, left common carotid artery, celiac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, and right renal artery. This paper describes the clinical features of type A dissection, especially the neurological symptoms, and highlights the importance of early diagnosis and timely intervention for type A dissection patients.