bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Quality during Development Alters Insulin-Like Peptides’ Expression and Physiology of the Adult Yellow Fever Mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Pooraiiouby Rana , Sharma Arvind , Beard Joshua , Reyes Jeremiah , Nuss Andrew , Gulia-Nuss Monika
Published: August 2018

Mosquitoes have distinct developmental and adult life history, and the vectorial capacity of females has been shown to be affected by the larval nutritional environment. However, little is known about the effect of developmental nutrition on insulin-signaling and nutrient storage. In this study, we used Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito, to determine whether larval nutrition affects insulin gene expression. We also determined the traits regulated by insulin signaling, such as stored-nutrient levels and fecundity. We raised mosquito larvae on two different diets, containing either high protein or high carbohydrates. Development on a high-carbohydrate diet resulted in several life-history phenotypes indicative of suboptimal conditions, including increased developmental time and decreased fecundity. Additionally, our data showed that insulin transcript levels are affected by a high-carbohydrate diet during development. Females, not males, reared on high-carbohydrate diets had much higher transcript levels of insulin-like peptide 3 (ILP3), a mosquito equivalent of human insulin, and these females more readily converted sugar meals into lipids. We also found that AaILP4, not AaILP3, transcript levels were much higher in the males after a sugar meal, suggesting sex-specific differences in the insulin-signaling pathway. Our findings suggest a conserved mechanism of carbohydrate-mediated hyperinsulinemia in animals.
The Usage and Perception of Pedestrian and Cycling Streets on Residents’ Well-being in Kalamaria, Greece
Authors: Panagopoulos Thomas , Tampakis Stilianos , Karanikola Paraskevi , Karipidou-Kanari Aikaterini , Kantartzis Apostolos
Published: August 2018

Pedestrian zones are public spaces intended for the continued and safe mobility of pedestrians and people with disabilities, and they provide multiple benefits to urban areas. They counterbalance the densely built-up areas, decrease atmospheric pollution, increase available green or social space, increase walking and cycling rates, and facilitate active play for children. Done properly, pedestrianization may also increase local business sales. Greece boasts open public spaces and the pedestrianization of common roads. The economic crisis that Greece has been experiencing since 2008 has led people to give up their vehicles and use the pedestrian streets more frequently. The purpose of this paper was to investigate residents’ perceptions and satisfaction rates concerning the pedestrian streets of Kalamaria, Greece, and evaluate their importance for residents’ well-being. Following a random sampling method, 400 residents were interviewed. A two-step cluster analysis was conducted. The survey showed that the urban residents visited pedestrian zones in Kalamaria at least once a week, and the visits lasted 46–60 min. The improvement of urban landscape aesthetics and people’s health and well-being were evaluated as important functions of pedestrian zones. The results also indicate that residents were not satisfied with their quality of life and the existing green infrastructures of the pedestrian streets, even though they have a positive disposition toward the construction or transformation of pedestrian streets. The residents expressed their unwillingness to pay more public taxes for the construction and maintenance of pedestrian and cycling streets. The safety and convenience of the mobility of residents were the most important advantages of the pedestrian streets. Meanwhile, overspill parking and difficulties with finding parking spaces were the main disadvantages for the residents. Local authorities can use the results of the present survey to manage the city’s green infrastructure and use this information in the urban planning framework.
Logistics Services Sector and Economic Recession in Greece: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Folinas Dimitrios , Tsolakis Naoum , Aidonis Dimitrios
Published: August 2018

The recent economic recession in Greece has had a detrimental impact on all national business activities, with the logistics industry being one of the most affected sectors primarily due to the significant decrease in market demand for goods and services. In this regard, the aim of this research is to identify key challenges and prospects for the Greek logistics services industry stemming from the recent economic crisis era through a critical literature taxonomy, a semantic analysis of the reviewed articles, and a questionnaire-based survey involving 140 executives from the third-party logistics sector. In principal, the recent economic crisis is reported to have significantly affected logistics service providers, thus further imposing structural reforms in the industry. The reduction in operating profits of transport companies is noticeable with the onset of the economic crisis, specifically in 2016. Nevertheless, logistics executives are optimistic regarding the near future, provided that educated and informed strategic management decisions are made and inventive business practices are embraced.
Minor Review: An Overview of a Synthetic Nanophase Bone Substitute
Authors: Eppell Steven J. , Tong Weidong , McMasters James , Soenjaya Yohannes , Barbu Anca M. , Ko Alvin , Baskin Jonathan Z.
Published: August 2018

Material is reviewed that consists of reconstituted collagen fibril gel mineralized in a manner that produces biomimetically sized nanoapatites intimately associated with the fibrils. This gel is formed into usable shapes with a modulus and strength that allow it to be surgically press fitted into bony defects. The design paradigm for the material is that the nanoapatites will dissolve into soluble Ca2+ as the collagen is degraded into RGD-containing peptide fragments due to osteoclastic action. This is intended to signal to the osteoclasts to continue removing the material in a biomimetic fashion similar to bony remodeling. Preliminary experiments in a subcutaneous rat model show that the material is biocompatible with respect to inflammatory and immunogenic responses, and that it supports cellular invasion. Preliminary experiments in a critical-sized mandibular defect in rats show that the material is resorbable and functions well as a bone morphogenetic 2 (BMP-2) carrier. We have produced a range of mechanical and biological responses by varying mechanical and chemical processing of the material.
Effect of Rolling Temperature on Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of AISI316LN Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Xiong Yi , Yue Yun , He Tiantian , Lu Yan , Ren Fengzhang , Cao Wei
Published: August 2018

The impacts of rolling temperature on phase transformations and mechanical properties were investigated for AISI 316LN austenitic stainless steel subjected to rolling at cryogenic and room temperatures. The microstructure evolution and the mechanical properties were investigated by means of optical, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy, an X-ray diffractometer, microhardness tester, and tensile testing system. Results showed that strain-induced martensitic transformation occurred at both deformation temperatures, and the martensite volume fraction increased with the deformation. Compared with room temperature rolling, cryorolling substantially enhanced the martensite transformation rate. At 50% deformation, it yielded the same fraction as the room temperature counterpart at 90% strain, while at 70%, it totally transformed the austenite to martensite. The strength and hardness of the stainless steel increased remarkably with the deformation, but the corresponding elongation decreased dramatically. Meanwhile, the tensile fracture morphology changed from a typical ductile rupture to a mixture of ductile and quasi-cleavage fracture. The phase transformation and deformation mechanisms differed at two temperatures, with the martensite deformation contributing to the former, and austenite deformation to the latter. Orientations between the transformed martensite and its parent phase followed the K–S (Kurdjumov–Sachs) relationship.
Research on the Crushing Process of PELE Casing Material Based on the Crack-Softening Algorithm and Stochastic Failure Algorithm
Authors: Ding Liangliang , Zhou Jingyuan , Tang Wenhui , Ran Xianwen , Cheng Ye
Published: August 2018

In order to more realistically reflect the penetrating and crushing process of a PELE (Penetration with Enhanced Lateral Efficiency) projectile, the stochastic failure algorithm and crack-softening algorithm were added to the corresponding material in this paper. According to the theoretical analysis of the two algorithms, the material failure parameters (stochastic constant γ, fracture energy Gf, and tensile strength σT) were determined. Then, four sets of simulation conditions ((a) no crack softening, (b) no stochastic failure, (c) no crack softening and no stochastic failure, and (d) crack softening and stochastic failure) were designed to qualitatively describe the influences of the failure algorithms, which were simulated by the finite element analysis software AUTODYN. The qualitative comparison results indicate that the simulation results after adding the two algorithms were closer to the actual situation. Finally, ten groups of simulation conditions were designed to quantitatively analyze the coincidence degree between the simulation results and the experimental results by means of two parameters: the residual velocity of the projectile and the maximum radial velocity of fragments. The results show that the simulation results coincide well with the experimental results and the errors were small. Therefore, the ideas proposed in this paper are scientific, and the conclusions obtained can provide guidance for engineering research.
Synthesis and Tribological Properties of Bio-Inspired Nacre-Like Composites
Authors: Zhang Hang , Liu Shuhai , Xiao Huaping , Zhang Xun
Published: August 2018

Ceramic materials possessing the properties of high-strength and rigidity are widely used in industry. The shell nacre has a layered structure containing both macroscopic and microscopic levels and is equipped with superior qualities regarding hardness and strength. Therefore, the ceramic composites with a nacre-like layered structure have the potential to be utilized as sliding bearings employed in the harsh conditions of wells. For the purpose of this paper, a porous Al2O3 ceramics skeleton with nanometer powder is prepared using the freeze-casting method. Then the porous ceramic skeleton is filled with polymer polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) through mass polymerization to produce a bionic Al2O3/PMMA composite with a lamellar structure. The properties of the prepared composite are determined by the analysis of micro-hardness, fracture toughness, friction coefficient, wear scar diameter, and the morphology of the worn surface. Consequent results indicate that elevation in the A12O3 powder, which acts as the initial solid phase content, prompts the ceramic slurry to exhibit an increase in viscosity and a gradual decrease in the pore size of the ceramic skeleton. The prepared layered Al2O3/PMMA composite possesses high fracture toughness, which closely resembles that of Al, is approximately four times that of the matrix of the Al2O3 ceramics and 16 times that of the PMMA. Three kinds of composites containing different solid phase content are subjected to testing involving lubrication by water-based drilling fluid to determine the friction coefficient of each. The results indicate that an increased load leads to a decreased friction coefficient while the impact of speed is not evident. Under dry conditions, the friction coefficient of three different composites tested, declines with elevated load and speed. With the use of water-based drilling fluid as lubrication, the wear scar diameter increases at higher speed, while dry conditions denote increased load. Abrasive wear is determined to be the principal form of erosion of layered Al2O3/PMMA composites.
Microstructures, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Behavior of As-Cast Mg–2.0Zn–0.5Zr–xGd (wt %) Biodegradable Alloys
Authors: Yao Huai , Wen Jiuba , Xiong Yi , Liu Ya , Lu Yan , Cao Wei
Published: August 2018

The Mg–Zn–Zr–Gd alloys belong to a group of biometallic alloys suitable for bone substitution. While biocompatibility arises from the harmlessness of the metals, the biocorrosion behavior and its origins remain elusive. Here, aiming for the tailored biodegradability, we prepared the Mg–2.0Zn–0.5Zr–xGd (wt %) alloys with different Gd percentages (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), and studied their microstructures and biocorrosion behavior. Results showed that adding a moderate amount of Gd into Mg–2.0Zn–0.5Zr alloys will refine and homogenize α-Mg grains, change the morphology and distribution of (Mg, Zn)3Gd, and lead to enhancement of mechanical properties and anticorrosive performance. At the optimized content of 3.0%, the fishbone-shaped network, ellipsoidal, and rod-like (Mg, Zn)3Gd phase turns up, along with the 14H-type long period stacking ordered (14H-LPSO) structures decorated with nanoscale rod-like (Mg, Zn)3Gd phases. The 14H-LPSO structure only exists when x ≥ 3.0, and its content increases with the Gd content. The Mg–2.0Zn–0.5Zr–3.0Gd alloy possesses a better ultimate tensile strength of 204 ± 3 MPa, yield strength of 155 ± 3 MPa, and elongation of 10.6 ± 0.6%. Corrosion tests verified that the Mg–2.0Zn–0.5Zr–3.0Gd alloy possesses the best corrosion resistance and uniform corrosion mode. The microstructure impacts on the corrosion resistance were also studied.
Positive Implicative Ideals of BCK-Algebras Based on Intuitionistic Falling Shadows
Authors: Jun Young Bae , Roh Eun Hwan , Öztürk Mehmet Ali
Published: August 2018

The concepts of a positive implicative ( ∈ , ∈)-intuitionistic fuzzy ideal and a positive implicative falling intuitionistic fuzzy ideal are introduced, and several properties are investigated. Characterizations of a positive implicative ( ∈ , ∈)-intuitionistic fuzzy ideal are obtained, and relations between a positive implicative ( ∈ , ∈)-intuitionistic fuzzy ideal and an intuitionistic fuzzy ideal are discussed. Conditions for an intuitionistic fuzzy ideal to be a positive implicative ( ∈ , ∈)-intuitionistic fuzzy ideal are provided, and relations between a positive implicative ( ∈ , ∈)-intuitionistic fuzzy ideal, a falling intuitionistic fuzzy ideal and a positive implicative falling intuitionistic fuzzy ideal are considered. Conditions for a falling intuitionistic fuzzy ideal to be positive implicative are given.
Anti-Obesity Effects of Collagen Peptide Derived from Skate (Raja kenojei) Skin Through Regulation of Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Woo Minji , Song Yeong Ok , Kang Keon-Hee , Noh Jeong Sook
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the anti-obesity effects of collagen peptide derived from skate skin on lipid metabolism in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. All C57BL6/J male mice were fed a HFD with 60% kcal fat except for mice in the normal group which were fed a chow diet. The collagen-fed groups received collagen peptide (1050 Da) orally (100, 200, or 300 mg/kg body weight per day) by gavage, whereas the normal and control groups were given water (n = 9 per group). The body weight gain and visceral adipose tissue weight were lower in the collagen-fed groups than in the control group (p < 0.05). Plasma and hepatic lipid levels were significantly reduced by downregulating the hepatic protein expression levels for fatty acid synthesis (sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC)) and cholesterol synthesis (SREBP-2 and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR)) and upregulating those for β-oxidation (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1)) and synthesis of bile acid (cytochrome P450 family 7 subfamily A member 1 (CYP7A1)) (p < 0.05). In the collagen-fed groups, the hepatic protein expression level of phosphorylated 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) and plasma adiponectin levels were higher, and the leptin level was lower (p < 0.05). Histological analysis revealed that collagen treatment suppressed hepatic lipid accumulation and reduced the lipid droplet size in the adipose tissue. These effects were increased in a dose-dependent manner. The findings indicated that skate collagen peptide has anti-obesity effects through suppression of fat accumulation and regulation of lipid metabolism.
Role of Transglutaminase 2 in Migration of Tumor Cells and How Mouse Models Fit
Authors: Bihorac Ajna
Published: August 2018

A search for the “magic bullet”, a molecule, the targeting abilities of which could stop the migration of tumor cells, is currently underway, but remains in the early stages. There are still many unknowns regarding the cell migration. The main approach is the employment of mouse models, that are sources of valuable information, but still cannot answer all of the questions. One of the molecules of interest is Transglutaminase 2 (TG2). It is a well-described molecule involved in numerous pathways and elevated in metastatic tumors. The question remains whether mice and humans can give the same answer considering TG2.
Comorbidities and Complications in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Cano-Jiménez Esteban , Hernández González Fernanda , Peloche Guadalupe Bermudo
Published: August 2018

Though idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by single-organ involvement, many comorbid conditions occur within other organ systems. Patients with IPF may present during evolution different complications and comorbidities that influence the prognosis and modify the natural course of their disease. In this chapter, we highlight common comorbid conditions encountered in IPF, discuss disease-specific diagnostic modalities, and review the current treatment data for several key comorbidities. The diagnosis and treatment of these comorbidities is a challenge for the pulmonologist specialized in interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). We will focus on pulmonary emphysema, lung cancer, gastroesophageal reflux, pulmonary hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea (sleep disorders), and acute exacerbation of IPF.
Effect of Cooling Path on Microstructure Features and Tensile Properties in a Low Carbon Mo-V-Ti-N Steel
Authors: Xiao Xinping , Shi Genhao , Zhang Shuming , Wang Qingfeng
Published: August 2018

The two-stage controlled rolling and cooling of a low carbon Mo-V-Ti-N steel at different cooling paths was simulated through a Gleeble 3500 system. The microstructure and tensile properties of each sample were examined by estimating their dependence on the cooling paths. It was indicated that a mixed microstructure of polygonal ferrite (PF), acicular ferrite (AF), granular bainitic ferrite (GBF), and a martensite-austenite (M-A) constituent was developed in each sample. Results showed that application of the reduced cooling rate and elevated finishing cooling temperature led to the increases in the effective ferrite grain size and the precipitate amount despite a decrease in dislocation density, which eventually resulted in the overall yield strength. It also led to an increasing amount of M-A constituent, which lowered the yield ratio and, thereby, enhanced the capacity for strain hardening. In addition, the underlying mechanism for the correlations among the cooling path, the microstructure, and the yield strength was considered.
Numerical Model for Mechanical Nonlinearities of High Manganese Steel Based on the Elastoplastic Damage Model
Authors: Kim Seul-Kee , Kim Jong-Hwan , Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: August 2018

For constructing marine liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel/storage tanks, high manganese steel is being recognized as an alternative to stainless steel, nickel alloy, and aluminum alloy. In this study, the nonlinear tensile behavior of high manganese steel was investigated and numerically simulated at cryogenic temperatures at which natural gas exists as a liquid. Physical experimental tensile tests were carried out for a flat test specimen at 293 K and 110 K. In particular, the tensile behavior of a flat hole-notched high manganese steel specimen was experimentally obtained. A specimen with a hole was readily fractured compared to one without a hole. Tensile behavior of high manganese steel at the two cryogenic temperatures was compared to that of stainless steel, nickel, and aluminum alloy. In addition, numerical tests were performed for flat tensile specimens under identical experimental conditions. The elastoplastic damage model was derived and implemented using an Abaqus user-defined subroutine to appropriately simulate material behavior and degradation. The influence of some parameters on tensile behavior was investigated. The simulation results satisfactorily replicated the nonlinear tensile behavior of high manganese steel. The proposed numerical method, which is based on the damage-coupled material constitutive model, can be applied to structural analysis on the finite element analysis platform considering mechanical nonlinearities induced by severe conditions such as cryogenic temperature.
Local Fatigue Strength Evaluation of Shot Peened 40Cr Notched Steel
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Sun Zhaoyi , Xu Desheng , Liu Yu
Published: August 2018

Fatigue life prediction for the notched components is an essential step within the design process of machines. Fatigue strength and life prediction of 40Cr notched steel before and after shot peening were studied. Fatigue fracture of specimens treated by three shot peening intensity parameters was discussed. The life prediction considering residual stress, work hardening and surface roughness caused by shot peening was analyzed. The results indicated that fatigue strength was obviously improved after shot peening and the improvement effect was gradually enhanced with the increase of shot peening intensity. The predicted values based on Rz coefficient showed a good correspondence with the experimental data.
Selective Extraction of Rare Earth Elements from Phosphoric Acid by Ion Exchange Resins
Authors: Hérès Xavier , Blet Vincent , Di Natale Patricia , Ouaattou Abla , Mazouz Hamid , Dhiba Driss , Cuer Frederic
Published: August 2018

Rare earth elements (REE) are present at low concentrations (hundreds of ppm) in phosphoric acid solutions produced by the leaching of phosphate ores by sulfuric acid. The strongly acidic and complexing nature of this medium, as well as the presence of metallic impurities (including iron and uranium), require the development of a particularly cost effective process for the selective recovery of REE. Compared to the classical but costly solvent extraction, liquid-solid extraction using commercial chelating ion exchange resins could be an interesting alternative. Among the different resins tested in this paper (Tulsion CH-93, Purolite S940, Amberlite IRC-747, Lewatit TP-260, Lewatit VP OC 1026, Monophos, Diphonix,) the aminophosphonic IRC-747, and aminomethylphosphonic TP-260 are the most promising. Both of them present similar performances in terms of maximum sorption capacity estimated to be 1.8 meq/g dry resin and in adsorption kinetics, which appears to be best explained by a moving boundary model controlled by particle diffusion.
Scalable, Modular Three-Dimensional Silicon Microelectrode Assembly via Electroless Plating
Authors: Scholvin Jörg , Zorzos Anthony , Kinney Justin , Bernstein Jacob , Moore-Kochlacs Caroline , Kopell Nancy , Fonstad Clifton , Boyden Edward
Published: August 2018

We devised a scalable, modular strategy for microfabricated 3-D neural probe synthesis. We constructed a 3-D probe out of individual 2-D components (arrays of shanks bearing close-packed electrodes) using mechanical self-locking and self-aligning techniques, followed by electroless nickel plating to establish electrical contact between the individual parts. We detail the fabrication and assembly process and demonstrate different 3-D probe designs bearing thousands of electrode sites. We find typical self-alignment accuracy between shanks of <0.2° and demonstrate orthogonal electrical connections of 40 µm pitch, with thousands of connections formed electrochemically in parallel. The fabrication methods introduced allow the design of scalable, modular electrodes for high-density 3-D neural recording. The combination of scalable 3-D design and close-packed recording sites may support a variety of large-scale neural recording strategies for the mammalian brain.
High-Performance Resistive Pressure Sensor Based on Elastic Composite Hydrogel of Silver Nanowires and Poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Ko Youngsang , Kim Dabum , Kwon Goomin , You Jungmok
Published: August 2018

Improved pressure sensing is of great interest to enable the next-generation of bioelectronics systems. This paper describes the development of a transparent, flexible, highly sensitive pressure sensor, having a composite sandwich structure of elastic silver nanowires (AgNWs) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). A simple PEG photolithography was employed to construct elastic AgNW-PEG composite patterns on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. A porous PEG hydrogel structure enabled the use of conductive AgNW patterns while maintaining the elasticity of the composite material, features that are both essential for high-performance pressure sensing. The transparency and electrical properties of AgNW-PEG composite could be precisely controlled by varying the AgNW concentration. An elastic AgNW-PEG composite hydrogel with 0.6 wt % AgNW concentration exhibited high transmittance including T550nm of around 86%, low sheet resistance of 22.69 Ω·sq−1, and excellent bending durability (only 5.8% resistance increase under bending to 10 mm radius). A flexible resistive pressure sensor based on our highly transparent AgNW-PEG composite showed stable and reproducible response, high sensitivity (69.7 kPa−1), low sensing threshold (~2 kPa), and fast response time (20–40 ms), demonstrating the effectiveness of the AgNW-PEG composite material as an elastic conductor.
Sulfide Formation as a Result of Sulfate Subduction into Silicate Mantle (Experimental Modeling under High P,T-Parameters)
Authors: Bataleva Yuliya , Palyanov Yuri , Borzdov Yuri
Published: August 2018

Ca,Mg-sulfates are subduction-related sources of oxidized S-rich fluid under lithospheric mantle P,T-parameters. Experimental study, aimed at the modeling of scenarios of S-rich fluid generation as a result of desulfation and subsequent sulfide formation, was performed using a multi-anvil high-pressure apparatus. Experiments were carried out in the Fe,Ni-olivine–anhydrite–C and Fe,Ni-olivine–Mg-sulfate–C systems (P = 6.3 GPa, T of 1050 and 1450 °C, t = 23–60 h). At 1050 °C, the interaction in the olivine–anhydrite–C system leads to the formation of olivine + diopside + pyrrhotite assemblage and at 1450 °C leads to the generation of immiscible silicate-oxide and sulfide melts. Desulfation of this system results in the formation of S-rich reduced fluid via the reaction olivine + anhydrite + C → diopside + S + CO2. This fluid is found to be a medium for the recrystallization of olivine, extraction of Fe and Ni, and subsequent crystallization of Fe,Ni-sulfides (i.e., olivine sulfidation). At 1450 °C in the Ca-free system, the generation of carbonate-silicate and Fe,Ni-sulfide melts occurs. Formation of the carbonate component of the melt occurs via the reaction Mg-sulfate + C → magnesite + S. It is experimentally shown that the olivine-sulfate interaction can result in mantle sulfide formation and generation of potential mantle metasomatic agents—S- and CO2-dominated fluids, silicate-oxide melt, or carbonate-silicate melt.
Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells to Overcome Treatment Resistance
Authors: Palomeras Sònia , Ruiz-Martínez Santiago , Puig Teresa
Published: August 2018

Despite advances in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, many patients still fail therapy, resulting in disease progression, recurrence, and reduced overall survival. Historically, much focus has been put on the intrinsic subtyping based in the presence (or absence) of classical immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers such as estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor-related protein (HER2). However, it is widely understood that tumors are composed of heterogeneous populations of cells with a hierarchical organization driven by cancer stem cells (CSCs). In breast tumors, this small population of cells displaying stem cell properties is known as breast CSCs (BCSCs). This rare population exhibit a CD44+/CD24−/low phenotype with high ALDH activity (ALDH+), and possesses higher tolerability to chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiotherapy and is able to reproduce the bulk of the tumor after reduction of cell populations sensitive to first-line therapy leading to disease relapse. In this review, we present special attention to BCSCs with future directions in the establishment of a therapy targeting this population. Drugs targeting the main BCSCs signaling pathways undergoing clinical trials are also summarized.
Effect of Nano-Sized Cavities in SAPO-34 Zeolite on Thermodynamics of Adsorbed Gas Mixtures
Authors: Wang Fei , Kobayashi Yasukazu , Li Yuxin , Wang Dezheng , Wang Yao
Published: August 2018

Adsorption of dimethyl ether and ethene in SAPO-34 zeolite with the calorimetric (adsorption heat versus coverage) curve measured together with the adsorption isotherm showed two phases of adsorption: first, Type 1 adsorption on acid sites, and second, Type 2 adsorption elsewhere in the cages by physisorption that continued with increasing pressure. Binary gas mixture experiments showed that only the ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) gave correct surface concentrations, while the multicomponent Langmuir isotherm for competitive adsorption was incorrect even though the acid site concentration was the same for the adsorbates. This is because the adsorption occurred in two adsorption phases while the Langmuir isotherm model is based on a single adsorption phase.
A Mild and Facile Synthesis of Amino Functionalized CoFe2O4@SiO2 for Hg(II) Removal
Authors: Wang Xi , Zhang Zhenzong , Zhao Yuhao , Xia Kai , Guo Yongfu , Qu Zan , Bai Renbi
Published: August 2018

To avoid the dangerous operational conditions, shorten the preparation time, and improve the adsorption performance of amino-functionalized nanomagnetic materials with a core–shell structure, a magnetic nanocomposite of CoFe2O4@SiO2 was successfully functionalized with amino group (−NH2) through a mild and facile hydrothermal method without the use of any toxic or harmful solvents at a relatively low temperature. The preparation time of the key steps of amino functionalization was shortened from 30 h to about 10 h. The core-shell structure and successful grafting were confirmed by various means. The amino-functionalized CoFe2O4@SiO2 was used for the removal mercury (Hg(II)), a heavy metal, and exhibited excellent magnetic properties and a high Langmuir adsorption capacity of 149.3 mg Hg(II)/g. The adsorption of Hg(II) onto CoFe2O4@SiO2–NH2 followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic equation and Langmuir model. The thermodynamic data showed that the Hg(II) adsorption process was achieved through spontaneous exothermic and monolayer adsorption with electrostatic adsorption and chemisorption. In addition, the as-prepared CoFe2O4@SiO2–NH2 nanoparticles had a good reusable value, good application performance and stability, and can provide a mild and facile way to remove heavy metals from aqueous solution.
Comparison of Fabrication Methods of Metal-Organic Framework Optical Thin Films
Authors: Huang Yan , Tao Cheng-an , Chen Rui , Sheng Liping , Wang Jianfang
Published: August 2018

Homogeneous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)-based optical thin films have attracted increasing attention, since they can potentially be used as active components in optical/opt-electrical devices, and how to fabricate MOF thin films with high quality is the premise of practically using them. Herein, five fabrication methods of MOF films are systematically investigated and compared from the aspects of appearance, reflectivity, micro-morphology, surface roughness, and optical properties of the films. The famous robust Zr-based MOF, UiO-66 (UiO = University of Oslo) is chosen as a model, and the five methods are spin-coating, dip-coating, self-assembly, direct growth, and the stepwise layer by layer growth method. This study provides fundamental support for the application of MOFs in the optical field.
Type 1 Diabetic Subjects with Diabetic Retinopathy Show an Unfavorable Pattern of Fat Intake
Authors: Granado-Casas Minerva , Ramírez-Morros Anna , Martín Mariona , Real Jordi , Alonso Núria , Valldeperas Xavier , Traveset Alicia , Rubinat Esther , Alcubierre Nuria , Hernández Marta , Puig-Domingo Manel , Lecube Albert , Castelblanco Esmeralda , Mauricio Didac
Published: August 2018

Medical nutrition therapy is an important part of the management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Proper adherence to a healthy diet may have a favorable impact on diabetes management and its diabetic complications. Our aim was to assess differences in food and nutrient intake of type 1 diabetic patients with and without diabetic retinopathy (DR). This was a two-center, cross-sectional study in patients with T1DM, with and without DR. Subjects were recruited from the outpatient clinic of the two participating centers. A validated food frequency questionnaire was administered. A total of 103 T1DM patients with DR and 140 T1DM patient without DR were recruited. Subjects with DR showed a lower intake of total fat (p = 0.036) than that of their non-DR counterparts. DR was associated with increasing age (p = 0.004), hypertension (p < 0.001), and diabetes duration (p < 0.001), however there was a negative association with high educational level (p = 0.018). The multivariate-adjusted analysis showed that the intake of complex carbohydrates was positively related to the presence of DR (p = 0.031). In contrast, the intakes of total fat (p = 0.009), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) (p = 0.012), oleic acid (p = 0.012), and vitamin E (p = 0.006) were associated with the absence of DR. As conclusions, the intake of total MUFAs, oleic acid, and vitamin E is associated with a lower frequency of DR in patients with T1DM. These results suggest a potential protective effect of these lipid components for DR.
The Relationship between Controlling Nutritional (CONUT) Score and Clinical Markers among Adults with Hepatitis C Virus Related Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Nishikawa Hiroki , Yoh Kazunori , Enomoto Hirayuki , Ishii Noriko , Iwata Yoshinori , Takata Ryo , Nishimura Takashi , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Sakai Yoshiyuki , Ikeda Naoto , Hasegawa Kunihiro , Takashima Tomoyuki , Iijima Hiroko , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: August 2018

Aims: To identify the relationship between the Controlling Nutrition Status (CONUT) score and clinical parameters among adults with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver cirrhosis (LC) (n = 264, 141 males and 123 females). Methods: The relationship between the CONUT score and clinical variables such as Child-Pugh classification were investigated. We also examined factors linked to poor nutritional state as determined by CONUT score. Results: According to the CONUT score, normal nutritional state was found in 57 patients, mild malnutrition state in 132, moderate malnutrition state in 68 and severe malnutrition state in 7. The CONUT score ranged from 0 to 9 (median = 2) in Child-Pugh A (n = 198), 0 to 10 (median = 6) in Child-Pugh B (n = 62) and 6 to 9 (median = 7.5) in Child-Pugh C (n = 4) (overall, p < 0.00001). Multivariate analysis revealed that FIB-4 index, branched-chain amino acid to tyrosine ratio and extracellular water to total body water ratio in bioimpedance analysis were significant for both CONUT score 2 or more, and 5 or more. FIB-4 index had the highest predictability for both CONUT score 2 or more and 5 or more among three parameters. Conclusion: The CONUT score well reflects liver functional reserve among adults with HCV-related LC. FIB-4 index can be useful for malnutrition.
Favorable Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on Physical Function, Perceived Energy, and Food Cravings in Women with Ovarian or Endometrial Cancer: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Cohen Caroline , Fontaine Kevin , Arend Rebecca , Soleymani Taraneh , Gower Barbara
Published: August 2018

Ketogenic diets (KDs) are gaining attention as a potential adjuvant therapy for cancer, but data are limited for KDs’ effects on quality of life. We hypothesized that the KD would (1) improve mental and physical function, including energy levels, (2) reduce hunger, and (3) diminish sweet and starchy food cravings in women with ovarian or endometrial cancer. Participants were randomized to a KD (70:25:5 energy from fat, protein, and carbohydrate) or the American Cancer Society diet (ACS: high-fiber, lower-fat). Questionnaires were administered at baseline and after 12 weeks on the assigned diet to assess changes in mental and physical health, perceived energy, appetite, and food cravings. We assessed both between-group differences and within-group changes using ANCOVA and paired t-tests, respectively. After 12 weeks, there was a significant between-group difference in adjusted physical function scores (p < 0.05), and KD participants not receiving chemotherapy reported a significant within-group reduction in fatigue (p < 0.05). There were no significant between-group differences in mental function, hunger, or appetite. There was a significant between-group difference in adjusted cravings for starchy foods and fast food fats at 12 weeks (p < 0.05 for both), with the KD group demonstrating less frequent cravings than the ACS. In conclusion, in women with ovarian or endometrial cancer, a KD does not negatively affect quality of life and in fact may improve physical function, increase energy, and diminish specific food cravings. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03171506.
Processing Impact on Performance of Solid Dispersions
Authors: Zhang Dan , Lee Yung-Chi , Shabani Zaher , Frankenfeld Lamm Celeste , Zhu Wei , Li Yongjun , Templeton Allen
Published: August 2018

The development of a weakly basic compound is often challenging due to changes in pH that the drug experiences throughout the gastrointestinal tract. As the drug transitions from the low pH of the stomach to the higher pH of the small intestine, drug solubility decreases. A stomach with a higher pH, caused by food or achlorhydric conditions brought about by certain medications, decreases even the initial solubility. This decreased drug solubility is reflected in lower in vivo exposures. In many cases, a solubility-enabling approach is needed to counteract the effect of gastrointestinal pH changes. Solid dispersions of amorphous drug in a polymer matrix have been demonstrated to be an effective tool to enhance bioavailability, with the potential to mitigate the food and achlorhydric effects frequently observed with conventional formulations. Because solid dispersions are in a metastable state, they are particularly sensitive to processing routes that may control particle attributes, stability, drug release profile, and bioperformance. A better understanding of the impacts of processing routes on the solid dispersion properties will not only enhance our ability to control the product properties, but also lower development risks. In this study, a weakly basic compound with greatly reduced solubility in higher pHs was incorporated into a solid dispersion via both spray drying and hot melt extrusion. The properties of the solid dispersion via these two processing routes were compared, and the impact on dissolution behavior and in vivo performance of the dispersions was investigated.
Patient Safety and Pro Re Nata Prescription and Administration: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vaismoradi Mojtaba , Amaniyan Sara , Jordan Sue
Published: August 2018

PRN is the acronym for ‘pro re nata,’ written against prescriptions whose administration should be based on patients’ needs, rather than at set times. The aim of this systematic review was to explore safety issues and adverse events arising from PRN prescription and administration. Electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed [including Medline], Embase, Cinahl, Web of Science and ProQuest were systematically searched to retrieve articles published from 2005 to 2017. Selection criteria: we included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and studies with comparison groups, comparing PRN prescription and administration with scheduled administration, where safety issues and adverse events were reported. The authors independently assessed titles, abstracts and full-texts of retrieved studies based on inclusion criteria and risk of bias. Results were summarised narratively. The search identified 7699 articles. Title, abstract and full-text appraisals yielded 5 articles. The included studies were RCTs with one exception, a pre-test post-test experimental design. Patient populations, interventions and outcomes varied. Studies compared patient-controlled or routine administration with PRN and one trial assessed the effect of a practice guideline on implementation of PRN administration. More analgesia was administered in the patient-controlled than the PRN arms but pain reduction was similar. However, there was little difference in administration of psychotropic medicines. No differences between patient-controlled and PRN groups were reported for adverse events. The PRN practice guideline improved PRN patient education but non-documentation of PRN administration increased. This systematic review suggests that PRN safety issues and adverse events are an under-researched area of healthcare practice. Variations in the interventions, outcomes and clinical areas make it difficult to judge the overall quality of the evidence. Well-designed RCTs are needed to identify any safety issues and adverse events associated with PRN administration.
Crosslinked-Polymer Brushes with Switchable Capture and Release Capabilities
Authors: Demirci Serkan
Published: August 2018

Crosslinked-polymer brushes give rise to new opportunities for functionalizing, protecting, and structuring both organic and inorganic materials. In this study, pH- and temperature-switchable crosslinked-polymer brushes were easily prepared by combining the in situ method with reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Initially, the RAFT agent was immobilized on an amine-terminated silicon wafer surface and utilized in the surface-initiated RAFT polymerization of 2-N-morpholinoethyl methacrylate (MEMA) as a monomer, and β-cyclodextrin methacrylate (CDMA) was used as a crosslinker on the silicon substrate. Measurements of film thickness, water contact angle, surface morphology, and structural characteristics of the resulting surfaces confirmed the poly(2-N-morpholinoethyl methacrylate) (PMEMA) brush-gels. Reversible capture and release measurements of methylene blue as a model molecule were also performed by UV–vis analysis. The switchable properties of the PMEMA brush-gels were maintained over five cycles. The results indicate that these PMEMA brush-gels with reversible capture and release properties might have widespread potential applications, including improved diagnostic tools as well as bioseparation.
Polyphilicity—An Extension of the Concept of Amphiphilicity in Polymers
Authors: Heinz Daniel , Amado Elkin , Kressler Jörg
Published: August 2018

Recent developments in synthetic pathways as simple reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) techniques and quantitative post-polymerization reactions, most notoriously ‘click’ reactions, leading to segmented copolymers, have broadened the molecular architectures accessible to polymer chemists as a matter of routine. Segments can be blocks, grafted chains, branchings, telechelic end-groups, covalently attached nanoparticles, nanodomains in networks, even sequences of random copolymers, and so on. In this review, we describe the variety of the segmented synthetic copolymers landscape from the point of view of their chemical affinity, or synonymous philicity, in bulk or with their surroundings, such as solvents, permeant gases, and solid surfaces. We focus on recent contributions, current trends, and perspectives regarding polyphilic copolymers, which have, in addition to hydrophilic and lipophilic segments, other philicities, for example, towards solvents, fluorophilic entities, ions, silicones, metals, nanoparticles, and liquid crystalline moieties.
Sacred Journeys: Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage
Authors: Sy Su Chadwick Co
Published: August 2018

Pilgrimage, being an ancient practice and a global phenomenon, continues to gain a growinginterest among scholars as its scope traverses many other disciplines and perspectives.[...]
Editor’s Introduction: Religion and Crime: Theory, Research, and Practice
Authors: Kerley Kent R.
Published: August 2018

The scientific study of religion is a relatively recent development in colleges and universitiesaround the world[...]
A Prediction Smooth Method for Blending Landsat and Moderate Resolution Imagine Spectroradiometer Images
Authors: Zhong Detang , Zhou Fuqun
Published: August 2018

Landsat images have been widely used in support of responsible development of natural resources, disaster risk management (e.g., forest fire, flooding etc.), agricultural production monitoring, as well as environmental change studies due to its medium spatial resolution and rich spectral information. However, its availability and usability are largely constrained by its low revisit frequency. On the other hand, MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) images for land studies have much more frequent coverage but with a lower spatial resolution of 250–500 m. To take advantages of the two sensors and expand their availability and usability, during the last decade, a number of image fusion methods have been developed for generating Landsat-like images from MODIS observations to supplement clear-sky Landsat imagery. However, available methods are typically effective or applicable for certain applications. For a better result, a new Prediction Smooth Reflectance Fusion Model (PSRFM) for blending Landsat and MODIS images is proposed. PSRFM consists of a dynamic prediction model and a smoothing filter. The dynamic prediction model generates synthetic Landsat images from a pair of Landsat and MODIS images and another MODIS image, either forward or backward in time. The smoothing filter combines the forward and backward predictions by weighted average based on elapsed time or on the estimated prediction uncertainty. Optionally, the smooth filtering can be applied with constraints based on Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI) or Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). In comparison to some published reflectance fusion methods, PSRFM shows the following desirable characteristics: (1) it can deal with one pair or two pairs of Landsat and MODIS images; (2) it can incorporate input image uncertainty during prediction and estimate prediction uncertainty; (3) it can track gradual vegetation phenological changes and deal with abrupt land-cover type changes; and (4) for predictions using two pairs of input images, the results can be further improved through the constrained smoothing filter based on NDSI or NDVI for certain applications. We tested PSRFM to generate a Landsat-like image time series by using Landsat 8 OLI and MODIS (MOD09GA) images and compared it to two reflectance fusion algorithms: STARFM (Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model) and ESTARFM (Enhanced version of STARFM). The results show that the proposed PSRFM is effective and outperforms STARFM and ESTARFM both visually and quantitatively.