bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Integrative Theory of Brain-Body-Ecosystem Medicine: From the Hippocratic Holistic View of Medicine to Our Modern Society
Authors: Guidolin Diego , Anderlini Deanna , Maura Guido , Marcoli Manuela , Cortelli Pietro , Calandra-Buonaura Giovanna , Woods Amina S. , Agnati Luigi F.
Published: August 2019

Humans are increasingly aware that their fate will depend on the wisdom they apply in interacting with the ecosystem. Its health is defined as the condition in which the ecosystem can deliver and continuously renew its fundamental services. A healthy ecosystem allows optimal interactions between humans and the other biotic/abiotic components, and only in a healthy ecosystem can humans survive and efficiently reproduce. Thus, both the human and ecosystem health should be considered together in view of their interdependence. The present article suggests that this relationship could be considered starting from the Hippocrates (460 BC–370 BC) work “On Airs, Waters, and Places” to derive useful medical and philosophical implications for medicine which is indeed a topic that involves scientific as well as philosophical concepts that implicate a background broader than the human body. The brain-body-ecosystem medicine is proposed as a new more complete approach to safeguarding human health. Epidemiological data demonstrate that exploitation of the environment resulting in ecosystem damage affects human health and in several instances these diseases can be detected by modifications in the heart-brain interactions that can be diagnosed through the analysis of changes in heart rate variability.
Re-Configuring Identity Postpartum and Sustained Abstinence or Relapse to Tobacco Smoking
Authors: Brown Tracey J. , Bauld Linda , Hardeman Wendy , Holland Richard , Naughton Felix , Orton Sophie , Ussher Michael , Notley Caitlin
Published: August 2019

Relapse to smoking postpartum is a common and important public health problem. Difficulty in adjusting to a non-smoking identity is a key factor prompting relapse. However, postpartum relapse prevention interventions rarely focus upon offering support for identity change. We conducted an exploratory inductive analysis of a dataset from the Prevention of Return to Smoking Postpartum (PReS) study to understand identity constructs and experiences of pre- and postpartum women (smokers and ex-smokers), partners and health professionals. Data were obtained from 77 unique participants via focus groups, interviews, email or online questionnaires, and were analyzed by two researchers independently, using NVivo 12. Four main themes emerged reflecting identity transition from the pre- to the postpartum period: (i) Pregnancy and the categorization of smoking status; (ii) the disruption of motherhood and loss of self; (iii) adapting to a maternal non-smoking identity; and (iv) factors influencing sustained abstinence versus relapse to smoking. Postpartum relapse prevention interventions need to consider support for women, and the whole family unit, in adjusting to a new identity as a non-smoking mother. Smoking status should be revisited throughout pregnancy and into the postpartum period to aid the long-term integration of smoke-free behavior.
What Hinders the Development of Green Building? An Investigation of China
Authors: Wu Zezhou , Jiang Mingyang , Cai Yuzhu , Wang Hao , Li Shenghan
Published: August 2019

With the rapid development of the economy, people are paying more and more attention to the environmental problems. In this circumstance, the concept of a circular economy is proposed for making efficient use of resources and minimizing the production of waste and other emissions. Each year, the construction sector consumes a vast volume of resources and makes impacts on the environment. To align with the development of the circular economy, the concept of green building is proposed. In China, though the concept of green building has been promoted for decades, the development status is far from optimistic. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the barriers that hinder green building development (GBD) in China. Through a systematic review and semi-structured interviews with experienced industrial practitioners, 24 potential barriers of GBD in China were identified. A questionnaire survey was then conducted for data collection. After descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) was established to investigate the impacts of different barriers on GBD. Results showed that the lack of policy and industry guidance, the immature market environment, and the lack of environmental awareness are the most important GBD barriers in China. This research can assist stakeholders in better understanding the status of GBD in China and enable decision-makers to formulate appropriate strategies to promote green building.
The Role of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies on Problematic Smartphone Use: Comparison between Problematic and Non-Problematic Adolescent Users
Authors: Extremera Natalio , Quintana-Orts Cirenia , Sánchez-Álvarez Nicolás , Rey Lourdes
Published: August 2019

Prior work has suggested that individuals with deficits in emotion regulation skills are prone to compulsive behaviour and to following maladaptive coping strategies, such as smartphone overuse, to manage negative moods. Adolescence is a vulnerable developmental stage for deficits in emotion regulation, and these are linked to excessive smartphone use. The present study is the first to examine the links between the use of specific cognitive emotion regulation (CER) strategies and problematic smartphone use in a sample of adolescents. A total of 845 Spanish adolescents (455 females) completed the Spanish versions of the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the Smartphone Addiction Scale, along with a socio-demographic survey. The adolescents were divided into two groups: Non-problematic smartphone users (n = 491, 58.1%) and problematic smartphone users (n = 354, 41.9%). Significant group differences were found, with the problematic users reporting significantly higher scores for all maladaptive CER strategies, including higher self-blame, rumination, blaming of others and catastrophising. The results from logistic regression analyses show that rumination, catastrophising and blaming of others were the most important variables for distinguishing between the two groups, along with gender and parental control outside the home. In summary, these findings suggest the importance of specific maladaptive CER strategies in problematic smartphone use and provide insight for relevant targets for intervention designs.
Work Ability and Job Survival: Four-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Martinez Maria Carmen , Fischer Frida Marina
Published: August 2019

Background: Employees with impaired work ability might be at higher risk of remaining shorter in the job than those with adequate work ability. The aim of the study was to establish whether work ability plays a role in job survival. Methods: Four-year follow-up (2008–2012) study of 1037 employees of a hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Work ability was categorized as “adequate” or “impaired”. Employment status at the end of follow-up was categorized as active, resignation or dismissal. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox proportional-hazards model. Results: About 78.9% of the participants had adequate and 21.1% impaired work ability. Job survival was longer for the participants with adequate work ability independently from the type of job termination (p < 0.001). The odds of job termination were higher for the participants with impaired work ability (p < 0.001) who either resigned (hazard ratio—HR = 1.58) or were dismissed (HR = 1.68). Conclusion: Job survival was shorter for the employees with impaired work ability independently from the type of job termination. It was also shorter for the employees who were dismissed compared to those who resigned. Duration in the job might be extended through actions to enhance work ability.
From Manual to Intelligent: A Review of Input Data Preparation Methods for Geographic Modeling
Authors: Hou Zhi-Wei , Qin Cheng-Zhi , Zhu A-Xing , Liang Peng , Wang Yi-Jie , Zhu Yun-Qiang
Published: August 2019

One of the key concerns in geographic modeling is the preparation of input data that are sufficient and appropriate for models. This requires considerable time, effort, and expertise since geographic models and their application contexts are complex and diverse. Moreover, both data and data pre-processing tools are multi-source, heterogeneous, and sometimes unavailable for a specific application context. The traditional method of manually preparing input data cannot effectively support geographic modeling, especially for complex integrated models and non-expert users. Therefore, effective methods are urgently needed that are not only able to prepare appropriate input data for models but are also easy to use. In this review paper, we first analyze the factors that influence data preparation and discuss the three corresponding key tasks that should be accomplished when developing input data preparation methods for geographic models. Then, existing input data preparation methods for geographic models are discussed through classifying into three categories: manual, (semi-)automatic, and intelligent (i.e., not only (semi-)automatic but also adaptive to application context) methods. Supported by the adoption of knowledge representation and reasoning techniques, the state-of-the-art methods in this field point to intelligent input data preparation for geographic models, which includes knowledge-supported discovery and chaining of data pre-processing functionalities, knowledge-driven (semi-)automatic workflow building (or service composition in the context of geographic web services) of data preprocessing, and artificial intelligent planning-based service composition as well as their parameter-settings. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and future research directions from the following aspects: Sharing and reusing of model data and workflows, integration of data discovery and processing functionalities, task-oriented input data preparation methods, and construction of knowledge bases for geographic modeling, all assisting with the development of an easy-to-use geographic modeling environment with intelligent input data preparation.
Multifunctional Peptides from Spanish Dry-Cured Pork Ham: Endothelial Responses and Molecular Modeling Studies
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez Sara María , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Antonio Gabaldón José , Abellán-Alemán José , Montoro-García Silvia
Published: August 2019

Food peptides contain a very wide range of diversified structures, which explains their diverse range of functional activities. Proatherogenic endothelium is related to vasoconstriction, inflammation, and oxidative stress. In this line, four synthetic bioactive peptides from dry-cured pork ham, previously identified according to their Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitory capacity and high bioavailability, were tested. Among them, KPVAAP displayed an estimated IC50 of 59.22 µM for human ACE inhibition, and docking simulations demonstrated the consistency of the noncompetitive binding with the protein. The addition of synthetic peptides to human endothelial cells significantly prevents the expression of genes related to endothelial dysfunction and inflammation (eNOS, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, IL-6) and lowers NF-κB activation (all p < 0.05). In silico dockings showed that the four bioactive peptides interact with the regulatory subunit NEMO of the NF-κB transcription factor at the same site as other characterized inhibitors (CC2-LZ region). This is the first study linking experimental and computational approaches that shows NF-κB to be the target of biopeptides of food origin. These multifunctional peptides from dry-cured pork ham make them good candidates for further research into their therapeutic or preventive use to attenuate the inflammatory atherosclerotic process.
Improving Lodging Resistance: Using Wheat and Rice as Classical Examples
Authors: Shah Liaqat , Yahya Muhammad , Shah Syed Mehar Ali , Nadeem Muhammad , Ali Ahmad , Ali Asif , Wang Jing , Riaz Muhammad Waheed , Rehman Shamsur , Wu Weixun , Khan Riaz Muhammad , Abbas Adil , Riaz Aamir , Anis Galal Bakr , Si Hongqi , Jiang Haiyang , Ma Chuanxi
Published: August 2019

One of the most chronic constraints to crop production is the grain yield reduction near the crop harvest stage by lodging worldwide. This is more prevalent in cereal crops, particularly in wheat and rice. Major factors associated with lodging involve morphological and anatomical traits along with the chemical composition of the stem. These traits have built up the remarkable relationship in wheat and rice genotypes either prone to lodging or displaying lodging resistance. In this review, we have made a comparison of our conceptual perceptions with foregoing published reports and proposed the fundamental controlling techniques that could be practiced to control the devastating effects of lodging stress. The management of lodging stress is, however, reliant on chemical, agronomical, and genetic factors that are reducing the risk of lodging threat in wheat and rice. But, still, there are many questions remain to be answered to elucidate the complex lodging phenomenon, so agronomists, breeders, physiologists, and molecular biologists require further investigation to address this challenging problem.
Intermedin in Paraventricular Nucleus Attenuates Ang II-Induced Sympathoexcitation through the Inhibition of NADPH Oxidase-Dependent ROS Generation in Obese Rats with Hypertension
Authors: Kang Ying , Ding Lei , Dai Hangbing , Wang Fangzheng , Zhou Hong , Gao Qing , Xiong Xiaoqing , Zhang Feng , Song Tianrun , Yuan Yan , Zhu Guoqing , Zhou Yebo
Published: August 2019

Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by angiotensin II (Ang II) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) play a critical role in sympathetic overdrive in hypertension (OH). Intermedin (IMD), a bioactive peptide, has extensive clinically prospects in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. The study was designed to test the hypothesis that IMD in the PVN can inhibit the generation of ROS caused by Ang II for attenuating sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and blood pressure (BP) in rats with obesity-related hypertension (OH). Male Sprague-Dawley rats (160–180 g) were used to induce OH by feeding of a high-fat diet (42% kcal as fat) for 12 weeks. The dynamic changes of sympathetic outflow were evaluated as the alterations of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to certain chemicals. The results showed that the protein expressions of Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R), calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) and receptor activity-modifying protein 2 (RAMP2) and RAMP3 were markedly increased, but IMD was much lower in OH rats when compared to control rats. IMD itself microinjection into PVN not only lowered SNA, NADPH oxidase activity and ROS level, but also decreased Ang II-caused sympathetic overdrive, and increased NADPH oxidase activity, ROS levels and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) activation in OH rats. However, those effects were mostly blocked by the adrenomedullin (AM) receptor antagonist AM22-52 pretreatment. The enhancement of SNA caused by Ang II can be significantly attenuated by the pretreatment of AT1R antagonist lorsatan, superoxide scavenger Tempol and NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin (Apo) in OH rats. ERK activation inhibitor U0126 in the PVN reversed Ang II-induced enhancement of SNA, and Apo and IMD pretreatment in the PVN decreased Ang II-induced ERK activation. Chronic IMD administration in the PVN resulted in significant reductions in basal SNA and BP in OH rats. Moreover, IMD lowered NADPH oxidase activity and ROS level in the PVN; reduced the protein expressions of AT1R and NADPH oxidase subunits NOX2 and NOX4, and ERK activation in the PVN; and decreased Ang II levels-inducing sympathetic overactivation. These results indicated that IMD via AM receptors in the PVN attenuates SNA and hypertension, and decreases Ang II-induced enhancement of SNA through the inhibition of NADPH oxidase activity and ERK activation.
Systematical Analysis of the Protein Targets of Lactoferricin B and Histatin-5 Using Yeast Proteome Microarrays
Authors: Shah Pramod , Wu Wei-Sheng , Chen Chien-Sheng
Published: August 2019

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have potential antifungal activities; however, their intracellular protein targets are poorly reported. Proteome microarray is an effective tool with high-throughput and rapid platform that systematically identifies the protein targets. In this study, we have used yeast proteome microarrays for systematical identification of the yeast protein targets of Lactoferricin B (Lfcin B) and Histatin-5. A total of 140 and 137 protein targets were identified from the triplicate yeast proteome microarray assays for Lfcin B and Histatin-5, respectively. The Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that Lfcin B targeted more enrichment categories than Histatin-5 did in all GO biological processes, molecular functions, and cellular components. This might be one of the reasons that Lfcin B has a lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) than Histatin-5. Moreover, pairwise essential proteins that have lethal effects on yeast were analyzed through synthetic lethality. A total of 11 synthetic lethal pairs were identified within the protein targets of Lfcin B. However, only three synthetic lethal pairs were identified within the protein targets of Histatin-5. The higher number of synthetic lethal pairs identified within the protein targets of Lfcin B might also be the reason for Lfcin B to have lower MIC than Histatin-5. Furthermore, two synthetic lethal pairs were identified between the unique protein targets of Lfcin B and Histatin-5. Both the identified synthetic lethal pairs proteins are part of the Spt-Ada-Gcn5 acetyltransferase (SAGA) protein complex that regulates gene expression via histone modification. Identification of synthetic lethal pairs between Lfcin B and Histatin-5 and their involvement in the same protein complex indicated synergistic combination between Lfcin B and Histatin-5. This hypothesis was experimentally confirmed by growth inhibition assay.
Molecular and Clinical Opposite Findings in 11p15.5 Associated Imprinting Disorders: Characterization of Basic Mechanisms to Improve Clinical Management
Authors: Wesseler Katharina , Kraft Florian , Eggermann Thomas
Published: August 2019

Silver–Russell and Beckwith–Wiedemann syndromes (SRS, BWS) are rare congenital human disorders characterized by opposite growth disturbances. With the increasing knowledge on the molecular basis of SRS and BWS, it has become obvious that the disorders mirror opposite alterations at the same genomic loci in 11p15.5. In fact, these changes directly or indirectly affect the expression of IGF2 and CDKN1C and their associated pathways, and thereby, cause growth disturbances as key features of both diseases. The increase of knowledge has become possible with the development and implementation of new and comprehensive assays. Whereas, in the beginning molecular testing was restricted to single chromosomal loci, many tests now address numerous loci in the same run, and the diagnostic implementation of (epi)genome wide assays is only a question of time. These high-throughput approaches will be complemented by the analysis of other omic datasets (e.g., transcriptome, metabolome, proteome), and it can be expected that the integration of these data will massively improve the understanding of the pathobiology of imprinting disorders and their diagnostics. Especially long-read sequencing methods, e.g., nanopore sequencing, allowing direct detection of native DNA modification, will strongly contribute to a better understanding of genomic imprinting in the near future. Thereby, new genomic loci and types of pathogenic variants will be identified, resulting in more precise discrimination into different molecular subgroups. These subgroups serve as the basis for (epi)genotype–phenotype correlations, allowing a more directed prognosis, counseling, and therapy. By deciphering the pathophysiological consequences of SRS and BWS and their molecular disturbances, future therapies will be available targeting the basic cause of the disease and respective pathomechanisms and will complement conventional therapeutic strategies.
Animal Models of Pneumococcal pneumonia
Authors: Borsa Noemi , Di Pasquale Marta , Restrepo Marcos I.
Published: August 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniae remains the most common bacterial pathogen causing lower respiratory tract infections and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in children and the elderly. Another important aspect related to pneumococcal infections is the persistent rate of penicillin and macrolide resistance. Therefore, animal models have been developed to better understand the pathogenesis of pneumococcal disease and test new therapeutic agents and vaccines. This narrative review will focus on the characteristics of the different animal pneumococcal pneumonia models. The assessment of the different animal models will include considerations regarding pneumococcal strains, microbiology properties, procedures used for bacterial inoculation, pathogenesis, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive approaches.
Factors Enhancing Serum Syndecan-1 Concentrations: A Large-Scale Comprehensive Medical Examination
Authors: Oda Kazumasa , Okada Hideshi , Suzuki Akio , Tomita Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Ryo , Sumi Kazuyuki , Suzuki Kodai , Takada Chihiro , Ishihara Takuma , Suzuki Keiko , Kano Soichiro , Kondo Kohei , Iwashita Yuki , Yano Hirohisa , Zaikokuji Ryogen , Sampei So , Fukuta Tetsuya , Kitagawa Yuichiro , Okamoto Haruka , Watanabe Takatomo , Kawaguchi Tomonori , Kojima Takao , Deguchi Fumiko , Miyazaki Nagisa , Yamada Noriaki , Doi Tomoaki , Yoshida Takahiro , Ushikoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Shozo , Takemura Genzou , Ogura Shinji
Published: August 2019

Endothelial disorders are related to various diseases. An initial endothelial injury is characterized by endothelial glycocalyx injury. We aimed to evaluate endothelial glycocalyx injury by measuring serum syndecan-1 concentrations in patients during comprehensive medical examinations. A single-center, prospective, observational study was conducted at Asahi University Hospital. The participants enrolled in this study were 1313 patients who underwent comprehensive medical examinations at Asahi University Hospital from January 2018 to June 2018. One patient undergoing hemodialysis was excluded from the study. At enrollment, blood samples were obtained, and study personnel collected demographic and clinical data. No treatments or exposures were conducted except for standard medical examinations and blood sample collection. Laboratory data were obtained by the collection of blood samples at the time of study enrolment. According to nonlinear regression, the concentrations of serum syndecan-1 were significantly related to age (p = 0.016), aspartic aminotransferase concentration (AST, p = 0.020), blood urea nitrogen concentration (BUN, p = 0.013), triglyceride concentration (p < 0.001), and hematocrit (p = 0.006). These relationships were independent associations. Endothelial glycocalyx injury, which is reflected by serum syndecan-1 concentrations, is related to age, hematocrit, AST concentration, BUN concentration, and triglyceride concentration.
Metabolic Syndrome Resolved within Two Years is Still a Risk Factor for Kidney Cancer
Authors: Oh Tae Ryom , Han Kyung-Do , Choi Hong Sang , Kim Chang Seong , Bae Eun Hui , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Soo Wan
Published: August 2019

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and kidney cancer is increasing, but studies on the effects of MetS and its components on kidney cancer development have had ambiguous results. Overall, 7,613,865 patients from the Korean National Health Insurance System were analyzed and followed up until 2017. Patients with ≥3 of the necessary five components of MetS were diagnosed with MetS. Patients were divided into subgroups according to two consecutive physical examinations conducted every two years. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to survey the independent association between MetS and the risk of kidney cancer development. Kidney cancer risk was significantly higher in patients with MetS, and there was no difference according to sex. The hazards ratio of kidney cancer increased with increasing number of MetS components. For patients not diagnosed with MetS but with abdominal obesity and hypertension, the likelihood of developing kidney cancer was similar to that of patients diagnosed with MetS. Patients with improved MetS within two years had increased risk of kidney cancer compared with those without MetS. MetS is an independent risk factor for kidney cancer, and the obesity and hypertension components of MetS are also powerful risk factors.
Sugar-Lowering Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome—Strategies for In Vivo Administration: Part-II
Authors: Vieira Raquel , Souto Selma B. , Sánchez-López Elena , López Machado Ana , Severino Patricia , Jose Sajan , Santini Antonello , Silva Amelia M. , Fortuna Ana , García Maria Luisa , Souto Eliana B.
Published: August 2019

Diabetes is a complex disease characterized by hyperglycemia, together with polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. While Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) results from genetic, environmental, or immune dysfunction factors leading to pancreatic β-cell destruction depriving the organism from endogenous insulin, Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance. Depending on the type of diabetes mellitus and drug mechanism to study, the animal model should be carefully selected among the wide variety of the currently available ones. This review discusses the most common animal models currently employed to study T1DM and T2DM. Moreover, an overview on the administration routes that could be used is also discussed.
Performance of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Selecting Thyroid Nodules with Indeterminate Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology for Surgery. A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Castellana Marco , Trimboli Pierpaolo , Piccardo Arnoldo , Giovanella Luca , Treglia Giorgio
Published: August 2019

Thyroid nodules with indeterminate fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNA) represent a major challenge in clinical practice. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the ability of hybrid imaging using fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) to appropriately select these nodules for surgery. PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched until July 2019. Original articles reporting data on the performance of 18F-FDG PET/CT in thyroid nodules with indeterminate FNA were included. Summary operating points including 95% confidence interval values (95% CI) were estimated using a random-effects model. Out of 786 retrieved papers, eight studies evaluating 104 malignant and 327 benign thyroid nodules were included. The pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 18F-FDG PET/CT were 1.7 (95% CI: 1.4–2.0), 0.4 (95% CI: 0.2–0.7), and 3.5 (95% CI: 1.7–7.1), respectively. No heterogeneity was found for LR+ and DOR. In patients with thyroid nodules with indeterminate FNA, 18F-FDG PET/CT has a moderate ability to correctly discriminate malignant from benign lesions and could represent a reliable option to reduce unnecessary diagnostic surgeries. However, further studies using standardized criteria for interpretation are needed to confirm the reproducibility of these findings.
The Evolving Case Supporting Individualised Physiotherapy for Low Back Pain
Authors: Ford Jon , Hahne Andrew , Surkitt Luke , Chan Alexander , Richards Matthew
Published: August 2019

Low-back pain (LBP) is one of the most burdensome health problems in the world. Guidelines recommend simple treatments such as advice that may result in suboptimal outcomes, particularly when applied to people with complex biopsychosocial barriers to recovery. Individualised physiotherapy has the potential of being more effective for people with LBP; however, there is limited evidence supporting this approach. A series of studies supporting the mechanisms underpinning and effectiveness of the Specific Treatment of Problems of the Spine (STOPS) approach to individualised physiotherapy have been published. The clinical and research implications of these findings are presented and discussed. Treatment based on the STOPS approach should also be considered as an approach to individualised physiotherapy in people with LBP.
Integrating Participatory Methods and Remote Sensing to Enhance Understanding of Ecosystem Service Dynamics Across Scales
Authors: Hodbod Jennifer , Tebbs Emma , Chan Kristofer , Sharma Shubhechchha
Published: August 2019

The value of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) for informing resource management has long been recognized; however, its incorporation into ecosystem services (ES) assessments remains uncommon. Often “top-down” approaches are utilized, depending on “expert knowledge”, that are not relevant to local resource users. Here we propose an approach for combining participatory methods with remote sensing to provide a more holistic understanding of ES change. Participatory mapping in focus group discussions identified TEK regarding what ES were present, where, and their value to communities. TEK was then integrated with satellite imagery to extrapolate to the landscape-scale. We demonstrate our method for Nyangatom communities in the Lower Omo Valley, Ethiopia, showing for the first time the ES impacts of regional environmental change, including the Gibe III dam, for communities in the Omo River basin. Results confirmed the collapse of flood-retreat cultivation associated with the loss of the annual Omo flood. Communities reported declines in many other provisioning ES, and these results were supported by satellite mapping, which showed substantial reductions in land covers with high ES value (shrubland and wetland), leading to consequent ES declines. Our mixed-methods approach has potential to be applied in other regions to generate locally relevant information for evaluating ES dynamics and improving management of natural resources.
The Microstructural Evolution, Tensile Properties, and Phase Hardness of a TiAl Alloy with a High Content of the β Phase
Authors: Cui Ning , Wu Qianqian , Yan Zhiyuan , Zhou Haitao , Wang Xiaopeng
Published: August 2019

In this paper, the microstructure, deformability, tensile properties, and phase hardness of the Ti–43Al–2Cr–0.7Mo–0.1Y alloy with a high β phase content were investigated. Microstructural analysis showed that the β phase precipitated not only at the colony boundaries but also inside the lamellae due to its high content. A high-quality forging stock was prepared through one-step noncanned forging. The total deformation reached above 80%, suggesting that the alloy has good hot deformability compared to other TiAl alloys. The deformed microstructure was composed of fine and equiaxed grains due to dynamic recrystallization. The high β phase content was shown to contribute to the decomposition of the initial coarse lamellae. Tensile testing showed that the alloy has good room-temperature ductility, even if the β phase content reaches above 20%. This is inconsistent with a previous study that showed that a large amount of the hard β phase is detrimental to the room-temperature ductility of TiAl alloys. Nanoindentation testing showed that the hardness of the β phase in the current alloy is about 6.3 GPa, which is much lower than that in the Nb-containing TiAl alloys. Low hardness benefits the compatible deformation among various phases, which could be the main reason for the alloy’s good room-temperature ductility. Additionally, the influence of various β stabilizers on the hardness of the β phase was also studied. The β phase containing Nb had the highest hardness, whereas the β phase containing Cr had the lowest hardness.
Novel Superhydrophobic Surface with Solar-Absorptive Material for Improved De-Icing Performance
Authors: Gonzales Joseph , Kurihara Daiki , Maeda Tetsuro , Yamazaki Masafumi , Saruhashi Takahito , Kimura Shigeo , Sakaue Hirotaka
Published: August 2019

Ice accretion is detrimental to numerous industries, including infrastructure, power generation, and aviation applications. Currently, some of the leading de-icing technologies utilize a heating source coupled with a superhydrophobic surface. This superhydrophobic surface reduces the power consumption by the heating element. Further power consumption reduction in these systems can be achieved through an increase in passive heat generation through absorption of solar radiation. In this work, a superhydrophobic surface with increased solar radiation absorption is proposed and characterized. An existing icephobic surface based on a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) microstructure was modified through the addition of graphite microparticles. The proposed surface maintains hydrophobic performance nearly identical to the original superhydrophobic coating as demonstrated by contact and roll-off angles within 2.5% of the original. The proposed graphite coating also has an absorptivity coefficient under exposure to solar radiation 35% greater than typical PTFE-based coatings. The proposed coating was subsequently tested in an icing wind tunnel, and showed an 8.5% and 50% decrease in melting time for rime and glaze ice conditions, respectively.
Impact of Gamma Radiation on Dynamic RDSON Characteristics in AlGaN/GaN Power HEMTs
Authors: Martínez Pedro J. , Maset Enrique , Martín-Holgado Pedro , Morilla Yolanda , Gilabert David , Sanchis-Kilders Esteban
Published: August 2019

GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) are promising next-generation devices in the power electronics field which can coexist with silicon semiconductors, mainly in some radiation-intensive environments, such as power space converters, where high frequencies and voltages are also needed. Its wide band gap (WBG), large breakdown electric field, and thermal stability improve actual silicon performances. However, at the moment, GaN HEMT technology suffers from some reliability issues, one of the more relevant of which is the dynamic on-state resistance (RON_dyn) regarding power switching converter applications. In this study, we focused on the drain-to-source on-resistance (RDSON) characteristics under 60Co gamma radiation of two different commercial power GaN HEMT structures. Different bias conditions were applied to both structures during irradiation and some static measurements, such as threshold voltage and leakage currents, were performed. Additionally, dynamic resistance was measured to obtain practical information about device trapping under radiation during switching mode, and how trapping in the device is affected by gamma radiation. The experimental results showed a high dependence on the HEMT structure and the bias condition applied during irradiation. Specifically, a free current collapse structure showed great stability until 3.7 Mrad(Si), unlike the other structure tested, which showed high degradation of the parameters measured. The changes were demonstrated to be due to trapping effects generated or enhanced by gamma radiation. These new results obtained about RON_dyn will help elucidate trap behaviors in switching transistors.
High Bactericidal Self-Assembled Nano-Monolayer of Silver Sulfadiazine on Hydroxylated Material Surfaces
Authors: Taglietti Angelo , Dacarro Giacomo , Barbieri Daniele , Cucca Lucia , Grisoli Pietro , Patrini Maddalena , Arciola Carla Renata , Pallavicini Piersandro
Published: August 2019

Anti-infective surfaces are a modern strategy to address the issue of infection related to the clinical use of materials for implants and medical devices. Nanocoatings, with their high surface/mass ratio, lend themselves to being mono-layered on the material surfaces to release antibacterial molecules and prevent bacterial adhesion. Here, a “layer-by-layer” (LbL) approach to achieve a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) with high microbicidal effect on hydroxylated surfaces is presented, exploiting the reaction between a monolayer of thiolic functions on glass/quartz surfaces and a newly synthesized derivative of the well-known antibacterial compound silver sulfadiazine. Using several different techniques, it is demonstrated that a nano-monolayer of silver sulfadiazine is formed on the surfaces. The surface-functionalized materials showed efficient bactericidal effect against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Interestingly, bactericidal self-assembled nano-monolayers of silver sulfadiazine could be achieved on a large variety of materials by simply pre-depositing glass-like SiO2 films on their surfaces.
Parallel Finite Element Model for Multispecies Transport in Nonsaturated Concrete Structures
Authors: Na Okpin , Xi Yunping
Published: August 2019

The chloride-induced corrosion of steel reinforcement embedded in concrete is undoubtedly one of the most important durability problems of reinforced concrete structures. The chloride ions as well as other ionic species (Na+, Ca2+, K+, OH−) come from various deicing salts and they are transported from the environment into concrete. To investigate the transport mechanism of the multispecies, complex scientific methods and accurate mathematical models are needed. The purpose of this study is to develop a more robust mathematical model and better computational technique to characterize the coupled effect of ionic transport mechanisms as well as the influence of interaction of ionic species. The new mathematical model was developed based on the Nernst–Planck equation and null current condition to solve the ionic-induced electrostatic potential, and the model was implemented by a parallel finite element algorithm. The verification of mathematical model was done by comparing the model prediction with experimental results for ionic transport in saturated concrete. The comparisons showed good results. The model prediction of the multispecies transport in partially saturated concrete demonstrated that the ionic species dissolved in pore solution could be carried by the moisture movement and pressure gradient. Therefore, the multispecies transport model based on the parallel finite element method is effective, accurate, and can be used for solving the partial differential equations for ionic species transport in concrete.
Stress Concentration Induced by the Crystal Orientation in the Transient-Liquid-Phase Bonded Joint of Single-Crystalline Ni3Al
Authors: Qin Hongbo , Kuang Tianfeng , Li Qi , Yue Xiong , Gao Haitao , Liu Fengmei , Yi Yaoyong
Published: August 2019

Single-crystalline Ni3Al-based superalloys have been widely used in aviation, aerospace, and military fields because of their excellent mechanical properties, especially at extremely high temperatures. Usually, single-crystalline Ni3Al-based superalloys are welded together by a Ni3Al-based polycrystalline alloy via transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding. In this study, the elastic constants of single-crystalline Ni3Al were calculated via density functional theory (DFT) and the elastic modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio of the polycrystalline Ni3Al were evaluated by the Voigt–Reuss approximation method. The results are in good agreement with previously reported experimental values. Based on the calculated mechanical properties of single-crystalline and polycrystalline Ni3Al, three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) was used to characterize the mechanical behavior of the TLP bonded joint of single-crystalline Ni3Al. The simulation results reveal obvious stress concentration in the joint because of the different states of crystal orientation between single crystals and polycrystals, which may induce failure in the polycrystalline Ni3Al and weaken the mechanical strength of the TLP bonded joint. Furthermore, results also show that the decrease in the elastic modulus of the intermediate layer (i.e., polycrystalline Ni3Al) can relieve the stress concentration and improve the mechanical strength in the TLP bonded joint.
The Effect of Wood Ash as a Partial Cement Replacement Material for Making Wood-Cement Panels
Authors: Vu Viet-Anh , Cloutier Alain , Bissonnette Benoit , Blanchet Pierre , Duchesne Josée
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to consider the use of biomass wood ash as a partial replacement for cement material in wood-cement particleboards. Wood-cement-ash particleboards (WCAP) were made with 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% of wood ash as a partial replacement for cement with wood particles and tested for bending strength, stiffness, water absorption, and thermal properties. Test results indicate that water demand increases as the ash content increases, and the mechanical properties decrease slightly with an increase of the ash content until 30% of replacement. On the other hand, the heat capacity increases with the wood ash content. The WCAP can contribute to reducing the heat loss rate of building walls given their relatively low thermal conductivity compared to gypsum boards. The replacement of cement to the extent of approximately 30% by weight was found to give the optimum results.
Effect of Extrusion Temperature on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of SiCnw/2024Al Composite
Authors: Dong Shanliang , Zhang Bin , Zhan Yuli , Liu Xin , Xin Ling , Yang Wenshu , Wu Gaohui
Published: August 2019

In the present research work, the effect of extrusion temperature from 480 to 560 °C on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of the SiCnw/2024Al composite (15 vol.%) has been explored. It has been found that extrusion at higher temperature (above 520 °C) was beneficial for the densification of the composite, while the residual average length and alignment of the SiC nanowires were also increased with the extrusion temperature. Moreover, higher extrusion temperature was helpful for the mechanical strength of the SiCnw/2024Al composite, and the peak-aged SiCnw/2024Al composite extruded at 560 °C revealed the highest strength (709.4 MPa) and elastic modulus (109.8 GPa).
Utilization of SiC and Cu Particles to Enhance Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Al Matrix Composites
Authors: Wu Dongxu , Huang Congliang , Wang Yukai , An Yi , Guo Chuwen
Published: August 2019

In this work, SiC and Cu particles were utilized to enhance the thermal and mechanical properties of Al matrix composites. The ball-milling and cold-compact methods were applied to prepare Al matrix composites, and the uniform distribution of SiC and Cu particles in the composite confirms the validity of our preparation method. After characterizing the thermal conductivity and the compressibility of the prepared composites, results show that small particles have a higher potential to improve compressibility than large particles, which is attributed to the size effect of elastic modulus. The addition of SiC to the Al matrix will improve the compressibility behavior of Al matrix composites, and the compressibility can be enhanced by 100% when SiC content is increased from 0 to 30%. However, the addition of SiC particles has a negative effect on thermal conductivity because of the low thermal conductivity of SiC particles. The addition of Cu particles to Al-SiC MMCs could further slightly improve the compressibility behavior of Al-SiC/Cu MMCs, while the thermal conductivity could be enhanced by about 100% when the Cu content was increased from 0 to 30%. To meet the need for low density and high thermal conductivity in applications, it is more desirable to enhance the specific thermal conductivity by enlarging the preparation pressure and/or sintering temperature. This work is expected to supply some information for preparing Al matrix composites with low density but high thermal conductivity and high compressibility.
Analysis of Cellular Activity and Induction of Inflammation in Response to Short-Term Exposure to Cobalt and Chromium Ions in Mature Human Osteoblasts
Authors: Jonitz-Heincke Anika , Sellin Marie-Luise , Seyfarth Anika , Peters Kirsten , Mueller-Hilke Brigitte , Fiedler Tomas , Bader Rainer , Klinder Annett
Published: August 2019

In aseptic loosening of endoprosthetic implants, metal particles, as well as their corrosion products, have been shown to elicit a biological response. Due to different metal alloy components, the response may vary depending on the nature of the released corrosion product. Our study aimed to compare the biological effects of different ions released from metal alloys. In order to mimic the corrosion products, different metal salts (CoCl2, NiCl2 and CrCl3 × 6H2O) were dissolved and allowed to equilibrate. Human osteoblasts were incubated with concentrations of 10 µM to 500 µM metal salt solutions under cell culture conditions, whereas untreated cells served as negative controls. Cells exposed to CoCr28Mo6 particles served as positive controls. The cell activity and expression of osteogenic differentiation and pro-osteolytic mediators were determined. Osteoblastic activity revealed concentration- and material-dependent influences. Collagen 1 synthesis was reduced after treatment with Co(2+) and Ni(2+). Additionally, exposure to these ions (500 µM) resulted in significantly reduced OPG protein synthesis, whereas RANKL as well as IL-6 and IL-8 secretion were increased. TLR4 mRNA was significantly induced by Co(2+) and CoCr28Mo6 particles. The results demonstrate the pro-osteolytic capacity of metal ions in osteoblasts. Compared to CoCr28Mo6 particles, the results indicated that metal ions intervene much earlier in inflammatory processes.
Effects of C Addition on the Microstructures of As-Cast Cu–Fe–P Alloys
Authors: Chen Wei , Hu Xiaona , Guo Wei , Zou Jin , Liu Keming , Lu Deping , Tan Dunqiang
Published: August 2019

Effects of C addition on the microstructures of as-cast Cu–Fe–P (mass fraction) alloys were systematically investigated. The results show that C addition can refine the matrix microstructure and make Fe particles finer. The Fe particles observed in both the non-C-alloyed and C-alloyed specimens are α-Fe particles, which possess a body-centered cubic (bcc) structure with a Nishiyama–Wassermann orientation relationship with the matrix. C is reported to be an γ-Fe stabilizer in the literature. The reason for the difference between the phases of Fe particles observed in this study, and that reported in the literature, are finally discussed. Additionally, C addition facilitates the decomposition of the supersaturated solid solution which occurs by the simultaneous precipitation of very fine Fe particles. Such initial decomposition product has an face-centered cubic (fcc) structure with a cube-on-cube orientation relationship with the matrix.
Microstructure and Texture Evolution of Mg–Gd–Y–Zn–Zr Alloy by Compression–Torsion Deformation
Authors: Xu Ping , Yu Jianmin , Zhang Zhimin
Published: August 2019

Mg–13Gd–4Y–2Zn–0.5Zr alloy was subjected to compression–torsion deformation at 450 °C with a strain rate of 0.001–0.5 s−1 using a Gleeble 3500 torsion unit. The effects of compression–torsion deformation on the microstructure and texture were studied, and the results showed that with the decrease of strain rate, the texture strength decreased, the number of dynamic precipitated particles increased, the degree of recrystallization increased, and the dynamic recrystallization mechanism changed from a continuous dynamic recrystallization mechanism to a continuous and discontinuous dynamic recrystallization mechanism. Along the direction of increasing radius, the degree of dynamic recrystallized grain (DRX) increased, the number of dynamic precipitated particles increased, and the texture strength slightly increased.