bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of the Effects of Exercise and Physical Activity on Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Gordon Rebecca , Bloxham Saul
Published: April 2016

Back pain is a major health issue in Western countries and 60%–80% of adults are likely to experience low back pain. This paper explores the impact of back pain on society and the role of physical activity for treatment of non-specific low back pain. A review of the literature was carried out using the databases SPORTDiscuss, Medline and Google Scholar. A general exercise programme that combines muscular strength, flexibility and aerobic fitness is beneficial for rehabilitation of non-specific chronic low back pain. Increasing core muscular strength can assist in supporting the lumbar spine. Improving the flexibility of the muscle-tendons and ligaments in the back increases the range of motion and assists with the patient’s functional movement. Aerobic exercise increases the blood flow and nutrients to the soft tissues in the back, improving the healing process and reducing stiffness that can result in back pain.
Mitigating Stress and Supporting Health in Deprived Urban Communities: The Importance of Green Space and the Social Environment
Authors: Ward Thompson Catharine , Aspinall Peter , Roe Jenny , Robertson Lynette , Miller David
Published: April 2016

Environment-health research has shown significant relationships between the quantity of green space in deprived urban neighbourhoods and people’s stress levels. The focus of this paper is the nature of access to green space (i.e., its quantity or use) necessary before any health benefit is found. It draws on a cross-sectional survey of 406 adults in four communities of high urban deprivation in Scotland, United Kingdom. Self-reported measures of stress and general health were primary outcomes; physical activity and social wellbeing were also measured. A comprehensive, objective measure of green space quantity around each participant’s home was also used, alongside self-report measures of use of local green space. Correlated Component Regression identified the optimal predictors for primary outcome variables in the different communities surveyed. Social isolation and place belonging were the strongest predictors of stress in three out of four communities sampled, and of poor general health in the fourth, least healthy, community. The amount of green space in the neighbourhood, and in particular access to a garden or allotment, were significant predictors of stress. Physical activity, frequency of visits to green space in winter months, and views from the home were predictors of general health. The findings have implications for public health and for planning of green infrastructure, gardens and public open space in urban environments.
Perceived Indoor Environment and Occupants’ Comfort in European “Modern” Office Buildings: The OFFICAIR Study
Authors: Sakellaris Ioannis , Saraga Dikaia , Mandin Corinne , Roda Célina , Fossati Serena , De Kluizenaar Yvonne , Carrer Paolo , Dimitroulopoulou Sani , Mihucz Victor , Szigeti Tamás , Hänninen Otto , De Oliveira Fernandes Eduardo , Bartzis John , Bluyssen Philomena
Published: April 2016

Indoor environmental conditions (thermal, noise, light, and indoor air quality) may affect workers’ comfort, and consequently their health and well-being, as well as their productivity. This study aimed to assess the relations between perceived indoor environment and occupants’ comfort, and to examine the modifying effects of both personal and building characteristics. Within the framework of the European project OFFICAIR, a questionnaire survey was administered to 7441 workers in 167 “modern” office buildings in eight European countries (Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain). Occupants assessed indoor environmental quality (IEQ) using both crude IEQ items (satisfaction with thermal comfort, noise, light, and indoor air quality), and detailed items related to indoor environmental parameters (e.g., too hot/cold temperature, humid/dry air, noise inside/outside, natural/artificial light, odor) of their office environment. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the relations between perceived IEQ and occupants’ comfort. The highest association with occupants’ overall comfort was found for “noise”, followed by “air quality”, “light” and “thermal” satisfaction. Analysis of detailed parameters revealed that “noise inside the buildings” was highly associated with occupants’ overall comfort. “Layout of the offices” was the next parameter highly associated with overall comfort. The relations between IEQ and comfort differed by personal characteristics (gender, age, and the Effort Reward Imbalance index), and building characteristics (office type and building’s location). Workplace design should take into account both occupant and the building characteristics in order to provide healthier and more comfortable conditions to their occupants.
A Novel Dynamic Physical Storage Model for Vehicle Navigation Maps
Authors: Wang Shaohua , Zhong Ershun , Li Kai , Song Guanfu , Cai Wenwen
Published: April 2016

The physical storage model is one of the key technologies for vehicle navigation maps used in a navigation system. However, the performance of most traditional storage models is limited in dynamic navigation due to the static storage format they use. In this paper, we proposed a new physical storage model, China Navigation Data Format (CNDF), which helped access and update the navigation data. The CNDF model used the reach-based hierarchy method to build a road hierarchal network, which enhanced the efficiency of data compression. It also adopted the Linear Link Coding method, in which the start position was combined with the end position as the identification code for multi-level links, and each link traced up-level links consistently without recording the array of identifications. The navigation map of East China (including Beijing, Tianjin, Shandong, Hebei, and Jiangsu) at 1:10,000, generated using the CNDF model, and the real time traffic information in Beijing were combined to test the performance of a navigation system using an embedded navigation device. Results showed that it cost less than 1 second each time to refresh the navigation map, and the accuracy of the hierarchal shortest-path algorithm was 99.9%. Our work implied that the CNDF model is efficient in vehicle navigation applications.
A Reverse-Genetics Mutational Analysis of the Barley HvDWARF Gene Results in Identification of a Series of Alleles and Mutants with Short Stature of Various Degree and Disturbance in BR Biosynthesis Allowing a New Insight into the Process
Authors: Gruszka Damian , Gorniak Malgorzata , Glodowska Ewelina , Wierus Ewa , Oklestkova Jana , Janeczko Anna , Maluszynski Miroslaw , Szarejko Iwona
Published: April 2016

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are plant steroid hormones, regulating a broad range of physiological processes. The largest amount of data related with BR biosynthesis has been gathered in Arabidopsis thaliana, however understanding of this process is far less elucidated in monocot crops. Up to now, only four barley genes implicated in BR biosynthesis have been identified. Two of them, HvDWARF and HvBRD, encode BR-6-oxidases catalyzing biosynthesis of castasterone, but their relation is not yet understood. In the present study, the identification of the HvDWARF genomic sequence, its mutational and functional analysis and characterization of new mutants are reported. Various types of mutations located in different positions within functional domains were identified and characterized. Analysis of their impact on phenotype of the mutants was performed. The identified homozygous mutants show reduced height of various degree and disrupted skotomorphogenesis. Mutational analysis of the HvDWARF gene with the “reverse genetics” approach allowed for its detailed functional analysis at the level of protein functional domains. The HvDWARF gene function and mutants’ phenotypes were also validated by measurement of endogenous BR concentration. These results allowed a new insight into the BR biosynthesis in barley.
Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells: A Novel Source for Modeling of Human Genetic Diseases
Authors: Antonucci Ivana , Provenzano Martina , Rodrigues Melissa , Pantalone Andrea , Salini Vincenzo , Ballerini Patrizia , Borlongan Cesar , Stuppia Liborio
Published: April 2016

In recent years, great interest has been devoted to the use of Induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPS) for modeling of human genetic diseases, due to the possibility of reprogramming somatic cells of affected patients into pluripotent cells, enabling differentiation into several cell types, and allowing investigations into the molecular mechanisms of the disease. However, the protocol of iPS generation still suffers from technical limitations, showing low efficiency, being expensive and time consuming. Amniotic Fluid Stem cells (AFS) represent a potential alternative novel source of stem cells for modeling of human genetic diseases. In fact, by means of prenatal diagnosis, a number of fetuses affected by chromosomal or Mendelian diseases can be identified, and the amniotic fluid collected for genetic testing can be used, after diagnosis, for the isolation, culture and differentiation of AFS cells. This can provide a useful stem cell model for the investigation of the molecular basis of the diagnosed disease without the necessity of producing iPS, since AFS cells show some features of pluripotency and are able to differentiate in cells derived from all three germ layers “in vitro”. In this article, we describe the potential benefits provided by using AFS cells in the modeling of human genetic diseases.
Mmu-miR-1894-3p Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Migration of Breast Cancer Cells by Targeting Trim46
Authors: Zhang Li , Li Xiaoying , Dong Wei , Sun Caixian , Guo Deyu , Zhang Lianfeng
Published: April 2016

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women and the presence of metastasis significantly decreases survival. MicroRNAs are involved in tumor progression and the metastatic spreading of breast cancer. Here, we reported that a microRNA, mmu-miR-1894, significantly decreased the lung metastasis of 4TO7 mouse breast cancer cells by 86.7% in mouse models. Mmu-miR-1894-3p was the functional mature form of miR-1894 and significantly decreased the lung metastasis of 4TO7 cells by 90.8% in mouse models. A dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that mmu-miR-1894-3p directly targeted the tripartite motif containing 46 (Trim46) 3′-untranslated region (UTR) and downregulated the expression of Trim46 in 4TO7 cells. Consistent with the effect of mmu-miR-1894-3p, knockdown of Trim46 inhibited the experimental lung metastasis of 4TO7 cells. Moreover, knockdown of human Trim46 also prohibited the cell proliferation, migration and wound healing of MBA-MD-231 human breast cancer cells. These results suggested that the effect of knockdown of Trim46 alone was sufficient to recapitulate the effect of mmu-miR-1894 on the metastasis of the breast cancer cells in mouse and that Trim46 was involved in the proliferation and migration of mouse and human breast cancer cells.
Piperlongumine Suppresses Proliferation of Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma through Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis and Senescence
Authors: Chen San-Yuan , Liu Geng-Hung , Chao Wen-Ying , Shi Chung-Sheng , Lin Ching-Yen , Lim Yun-Ping , Lu Chieh-Hsiang , Lai Peng-Yeh , Chen Hau-Ren , Lee Ying-Ray
Published: April 2016

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), an aggressive cancer originating in the oral cavity, is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in males worldwide. This study investigated the antitumor activity and mechanisms of piperlongumine (PL), a natural compound isolated from Piper longum L., in human OSCC cells. The effects of PL on cell proliferation, the cell cycle, apoptosis, senescence and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in human OSCC cells were investigated. PL effectively inhibited cell growth, caused cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis and senescence in OSCC cells. Moreover, PL-mediated anti-human OSCC behavior was inhibited by an ROS scavenger N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) treatment, suggesting that regulation of ROS was involved in the mechanism of the anticancer activity of PL. These findings suggest that PL suppresses tumor growth by regulating the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis and senescence and is a potential chemotherapy agent for human OSCC cells.
The Opposite Effect of Metal Ions on Short-/Long-Range Water Structure: A Multiple Characterization Study
Authors: Ma Kai , Zhao Lin
Published: April 2016

Inorganic electrolyte solutions are very important in our society as they dominate many biochemical and geochemical processes. Herein, an in-depth study was performed to illustrate the ion-induced effect on water structure by coupling NMR, viscometer, Raman and Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations. The NMR coefficient (BNMR) and diffusion coefficient (D) from NMR, and viscosity coefficient (Bvis) from a viscometer all proved that dissolved metal ions are capable of enhancing the association degree of adjacent water molecules, and the impact on water structure decreased in the order of Cr3+ > Fe3+ > Cu2+ > Zn2+. This regularity was further evidenced by Raman analysis; however, the deconvoluted Raman spectrum indicated the decrease in high association water with salt concentration and the increase in low association water before 200 mmol·L−1. By virtue of MD simulations, the opposite changing manner proved to be the result of the opposite effect on short-/long-range water structure induced by metal ions. Our results may help to explain specific protein denaturation induced by metal ions.
TNFSF15 Inhibits Blood Retinal Barrier Breakdown Induced by Diabetes
Authors: Jiang Feng , Chen Qingzhong , Huang Liming , Wang Ying , Zhang Zhuhong , Meng Xiangda , Liu Yuanyuan , Mao Chunjie , Zheng Fang , Zhang Jingkai , Yan Hua
Published: April 2016

Tumor necrosis factor superfamily 15 (TNFSF15) is an endogenous neovascularization inhibitor and an important negative regulator of vascular homeostasis. This study aimed to explore the potential role of TNFSF15 in diabetic retinopathy. Vitreous TNFSF15 and VEGF levels in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients were detected by ELISA. Retinal expression of TNFSF15 and the content of tight junction proteins (TJPs) in rats were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, respectively. The blood retinal barrier (BRB) permeability was evaluated using Evans Blue (EB) dye. The TNFSF15/VEGF ratio was decreased in the vitreous fluid of patients with PDR relative to the controls, even though the expression levels of TNFSF15 were higher. TNFSF15 was dramatically decreased one month later after diabetes induction (p < 0.001), and then increased three months later and thereafter. TNFSF15 treatment significantly protected the BRB in the diabetic animals. Diabetes decreased TJPs levels in the retina, and these changes were inhibited by TNFSF15 treatment. Moreover, TNFSF15 decreased activation of VEGF both in mRNA and protein levels caused by diabetes. These results indicate that TNFSF15 is an important inhibitor in the progression of DR and suggest that the regulation of TNFSF15 shows promise for the development of diabetic retinopathy treatment strategies.
Ectomycota Associated with Arthropods from Bat Hibernacula in Eastern Canada, with Particular Reference to Pseudogymnoascus destructans
Authors: Vanderwolf Karen , Malloch David , McAlpine Donald
Published: April 2016

The introduction of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) to North America, agent of white-nose syndrome in hibernating bats, has increased interest in fungi from underground habitats. While bats are assumed to be the main vector transmitting Pd cave-to-cave, the role of other fauna is unexplored. We documented the fungi associated with over-wintering arthropods in Pd-positive hibernacula, including sites where bats had been recently extirpated or near-extirpated, to determine if arthropods carried Pd, and to compare fungal assemblages on arthropods to bats. We isolated 87 fungal taxa in 64 genera from arthropods. Viable Pd was cultured from 15.3% of arthropods, most frequently from harvestmen (Nelima elegans). Fungal assemblages on arthropods were similar to those on bats. The different fungal assemblages documented among arthropods may be due to divergent patterns of movement, aggregation, feeding, or other factors. While it is unlikely that arthropods play a major role in the transmission dynamics of Pd, we demonstrate that arthropods may carry viable Pd spores and therefore have the potential to transport Pd, either naturally or anthropogenically, within or among hibernacula. This underlines the need for those entering hibernacula to observe decontamination procedures and for such procedures to evolve as our understanding of potential mechanisms of Pd dispersal improve.
Pheromone Autodetection: Evidence and Implications
Authors: Holdcraft Robert , Rodriguez-Saona Cesar , Stelinski Lukasz
Published: April 2016

Olfactory communication research with insects utilizing sex pheromones has focused on the effects of pheromones on signal receivers. Early pheromone detection studies using the silkworm moth, Bombyx mori L., and Saturniids led to the assumption that emitters, especially females, are unable to detect their own pheromone. Pheromone anosmia, i.e., the inability of females to detect their conspecific sex pheromone, was often assumed, and initially little attention was paid to female behaviors that may result from autodetection, i.e., the ability of females to detect their sex pheromone. Detection of conspecific pheromone plumes from nearby females may provide information to improve chances of mating success and progeny survival. Since the first documented example in 1972, numerous occurrences of autodetection have been observed and verified in field and laboratory studies. We summarize here a significant portion of research relating to autodetection. Electrophysiological and behavioral investigations, as well as expression patterns of proteins involved in pheromone autodetection are included. We discuss problems inherent in defining a boundary between sex and aggregation pheromones considering the occurrence of autodetection, and summarize hypothesized selection pressures favoring autodetection. Importance of including autodetection studies in future work is emphasized by complications arising from a lack of knowledge combined with expanding the use of pheromones in agriculture.
Data Dissemination in Mobile Social Networks with the Acknowledgment Feedback
Authors: Wang Ning , Wu Jie
Published: April 2016

Most existing dissemination schemes in Mobile Social Networks (MSNs) only consider the data dissemination. However, there are two types of messages: data and the control message (i.e., acknowledgment) in MSNs, and receiving acknowledgment is very important in many applications (e.g., the mobile trade and the incentive mechanism). In order to maximize the desired message delivery ratio, we have to identify the priority of each message in the network during the limited contact opportunity. Therefore, we propose a generic priority-based compare-split routing scheme, which proves to be the optimal buffer exchange strategy. During each contact opportunity, relays compare their forwarding abilities to different destinations based on two types of criteria: the contact probability and the social status. Ideally, each relay keeps the messages whose destinations meet the current relay frequently. Then, an adaptive priority-based exchange scheme, which considers the priority within each type of messages and the relative priority between two types of messages, is proposed to exchange the most benefit messages. The effectiveness of our scheme is verified through extensive simulations in synthetic and real traces.
Mechanics Model for Simulating RC Hinges under Reversed Cyclic Loading
Authors: Shukri Ahmad , Visintin Phillip , Oehlers Deric , Jumaat Mohd
Published: April 2016

Describing the moment rotation (M/θ) behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) hinges is essential in predicting the behavior of RC structures under severe loadings, such as under cyclic earthquake motions and blast loading. The behavior of RC hinges is defined by localized slip or partial interaction (PI) behaviors in both the tension and compression region. In the tension region, slip between the reinforcement and the concrete defines crack spacing, crack opening and closing, and tension stiffening. While in the compression region, slip along concrete to concrete interfaces defines the formation and failure of concrete softening wedges. Being strain-based, commonly-applied analysis techniques, such as the moment curvature approach, cannot directly simulate these PI behaviors because they are localized and displacement based. Therefore, strain-based approaches must resort to empirical factors to define behaviors, such as tension stiffening and concrete softening hinge lengths. In this paper, a displacement-based segmental moment rotation approach, which directly simulates the partial interaction behaviors in both compression and tension, is developed for predicting the M/θ response of an RC beam hinge under cyclic loading. Significantly, in order to develop the segmental approach, a partial interaction model to predict the tension stiffening load slip relationship between the reinforcement and the concrete is developed.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Bioactive PHA and γ-PGA Oligomers for Potential Applications as a Delivery System
Authors: Kwiecień Iwona , Radecka Iza , Kwiecień Michał , Adamus Grażyna
Published: April 2016

The (trans)esterification reaction of bacterial biopolymers with a selected bioactive compound with a hydroxyl group was applied as a convenient method for obtaining conjugates of such compound. Tyrosol, a naturally occurring phenolic compound, was selected as a model of a bioactive compound with a hydroxyl group. Selected biodegradable polyester and polyamide, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB-co-4HB)) and poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA), respectively, were used. The (trans)esterification reactions were carried out in melt mediated by 4-toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate. The structures of (trans)esterification products were established at the molecular level with the aid of ESI-MS2 (electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry) and/or 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) techniques. Performed analyses confirmed that the developed method leads to the formation of conjugates in which bioactive compounds are covalently bonded to biopolymer chains. The amount of covalently bonded bioactive compounds in the resulting conjugates depends on the type of biopolymers applied in synthesis.
Potential Pharmacological Resources: Natural Bioactive Compounds from Marine-Derived Fungi
Authors: Jin Liming , Quan Chunshan , Hou Xiyan , Fan Shengdi
Published: April 2016

In recent years, a considerable number of structurally unique metabolites with biological and pharmacological activities have been isolated from the marine-derived fungi, such as polyketides, alkaloids, peptides, lactones, terpenoids and steroids. Some of these compounds have anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibiotic and cytotoxic properties. This review partially summarizes the new bioactive compounds from marine-derived fungi with classification according to the sources of fungi and their biological activities. Those fungi found from 2014 to the present are discussed.
A Soxhlet Extract of Gongronema latifolium Retains Moderate Blood Glucose Lowering Effect and Produces Structural Recovery in the Pancreas of STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Al-Hindi Bassel , Yusoff Nor , Atangwho Item , Ahmad Mariam , Asmawi Mohd , Yam Mun
Published: April 2016

Background: Gongronema latifolium Benth. (GL) possesses considerable glucose lowering effects able to be utilized on a large-scale. This paper investigates the effects of a Soxhlet extract on hyperglycemia, Langerhans islets and glucose uptake by abdominal muscles. Methods: Ethanol and a Soxhlet apparatus were used to obtain GL ethanolic Soxhlet extract (GLES). It was then administered to randomly-segregated male Sprague-Dawley, normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats, using oral gavage to evaluate blood glucose levels (BGLs), serum lipid profile, insulin levels and the pancreas post-treatment. Results: GLES significantly (p < 0.05) decreased BGLs of normal rats in glucose tolerance testing at a dose of 2 g/kg b.w. but failed to do so in diabetic rats undergoing acute 7-h treatment. Given twice-daily, 1 g/kg b.w. of GLES moderately controlled diabetic BGLs starting from day 10. After 14 days of treatment, 1 g/kg and 0.5 g/kg b.w. of GLES caused 44% and 50% respective increases in the average area of Langerhans islets compared to DC. Using isolated rat abdominal muscle, GLES was found to be a mild insulin-sensitizer. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of the known glucose-lowering phytosterol, Sitostenone. Conclusion: Despite retaining moderate antidiabetic activity, Soxhlet extraction of Gongronema latifolium probably leads to the destruction of active heat-liable compounds.
Intermetallic Reactions during the Solid-Liquid Interdiffusion Bonding of Bi2Te2.55Se0.45 Thermoelectric Material with Cu Electrodes Using a Sn Interlayer
Authors: Chuang Chien-Hsun , Lin Yan-Cheng , Lin Che-Wei
Published: April 2016

The intermetallic compounds formed during the diffusion soldering of a Bi2Te2.55Se0.45 thermoelectric material with a Cu electrode are investigated. For this bonding process, Bi2Te2.55Se0.45 was pre-coated with a 1 μm Sn thin film on the thermoelectric element and pre-heated at 250 °C for 3 min before being electroplated with a Ni barrier layer and a Ag reaction layer. The pre-treated thermoelectric element was bonded with a Ag-coated Cu electrode using a 4 μm Sn interlayer at temperatures between 250 and 325 °C. The results indicated that a multi-layer of Bi–Te–Se/Sn–Te–Se–Bi/Ni3Sn4 phases formed at the Bi2Te2.55Se0.45/Ni interface, ensuring sound cohesion between the Bi2Te2.55Se0.45 thermoelectric material and Ni barrier. The molten Sn interlayer reacted rapidly with both Ag reaction layers to form an Ag3Sn intermetallic layer until it was completely exhausted and the Ag/Sn/Ag sandwich transformed into a Ag/Ag3Sn/Ag joint. Satisfactory shear strengths ranging from 19.3 and 21.8 MPa were achieved in Bi2Te2.55Se0.45/Cu joints bonded at 250 to 300 °C for 5 to 30 min, dropping to values of about 11 MPa for 60 min, bonding at 275 and 300 °C. In addition, poor strengths of about 7 MPa resulted from bonding at a higher temperature of 325 °C for 5 to 60 min.
Properties Evaluation of Thin Microhardened Surface Layer of Tool Steel after Wire EDM
Authors: Straka Ľuboslav , Čorný Ivan , Piteľ Ján
Published: April 2016

This paper describes results of experimental research on the thin microhardened surface layer of a machined surface that occurs in materials using wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) with brass wire electrode. The direct influence of microhardened surface layer on resulting machined surface quality of tool steel EN X210Cr12 (W.-Nr. 1.2080) was examined. The aim of the experiment was to contribute to the knowledge of mutual interactions between main WEDM technological parameters, the influence of these parameters on the total affected depth, and on the variation of microhardness of sub-surface layers of machined surface. Based on the microhardness experimental measurements, mathematical models were established by the Least Square Method (LSM) in order to simulate and predict final quality of machined surface after WEDM. Recommendations are given for setting the main technological parameters of the discharge process concerning minimization of total microhardened surface layer depth and microhardened surface layer homogeneity along the whole cross-section profile of the machined surface.
Joining of TiAl to Steel by Diffusion Bonding with Ni/Ti Reactive Multilayers
Authors: Simões Sónia , Ramos Ana , Viana Filomena , Vieira Maria , Vieira Manuel
Published: April 2016

Dissimilar diffusion bonds of TiAl alloy to AISI 310 stainless steel using Ni/Ti reactive multilayers were studied in this investigation. The Ni and Ti alternating layers were deposited by d.c. magnetron sputtering onto the base materials, with a bilayer thickness of 30 and 60 nm. Joining experiments were performed at 700 and 800 °C for 60 min under pressures of 50 and 10 MPa. The effectiveness of using Ni/Ti multilayers to improve the bonding process was assessed by microstructural characterization of the interface and by mechanical tests. Diffusion bonded joints were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED), high resolution TEM (HRTEM) and Fast Fourier transform (FFT). The bonding interfaces are thin (approximately 5 µm thick) with a layered microstructure. For all joints, the interface is mainly composed of equiaxed grains of NiTi and NiTi2. The thickness and number of layers depends on the joining conditions and bilayer thickness of the multilayers. Mechanical characterization of the joints was performed by nanoindentation and shear tests. Young´s modulus distribution maps highlight the phase differences across the joint´s interface. The highest shear strength value is obtained for the joint produced at 800 °C for 60 min under a pressure of 10 MPa using Ni/Ti multilayers with 30 nm of bilayer thickness.
Erratum: Wally, Z.J.; van Grunsven, W.; Claeyssens, F.; Goodall, R.; Reilly, G.C. Porous Titanium for Dental Implant Applications. Metals 2015, 5, 1902–1920.
Authors: Wally Zena , Van Grunsven William , Claeyssens Frederik , Goodall Russell , Reilly Gwendolen
Published: April 2016

The authors wish to make the following corrections to the citations in the published paper [1].[...]
Influence of Geometry and Surrounding Conditions on Fluid Flow in Paper-Based Devices
Authors: Walji Noosheen , MacDonald Brendan
Published: April 2016

Fluid flow behaviour in paper is of increasing interest due to the advantages and expanding use of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (known as µPADs). Applications are expanding from those which often have low sample fluid volumes, such as diagnostic testing, to those with an abundance of sample fluid, such as water quality testing. The rapid development of enhanced features in μPADs, along with a need for increased sensitivity and specificity in the embedded chemistry requires understanding the passively-driven fluid motion in paper to enable precise control and consistency of the devices. It is particularly important to understand the influence of parameters associated with larger fluid volumes and to quantify their impact. Here, we experimentally investigate the impacts of several properties during imbibition in paper, including geometry (larger width and length) and the surrounding conditions (humidity and temperature) using abundant fluid reservoirs. Fluid flow velocity in paper was found to vary with temperature and width, but not with length of the paper strip and humidity for the conditions we tested. We observed substantial post-wetting flow for paper strips in contact with a large fluid reservoir.
Quasi-Optical Terahertz Microfluidic Devices for Chemical Sensing and Imaging
Authors: Liu Lei , Jiang Zhenguo , Rahman Syed , Shams Md. , Jing Benxin , Kannegulla Akash , Cheng Li-Jing
Published: April 2016

We first review the development of a frequency domain quasi-optical terahertz (THz) chemical sensing and imaging platform consisting of a quartz-based microfluidic subsystem in our previous work. We then report the application of this platform to sensing and characterizing of several selected liquid chemical samples from 570–630 GHz. THz sensing of chemical mixtures including isopropylalcohol-water (IPA-H2O) mixtures and acetonitrile-water (ACN-H2O) mixtures have been successfully demonstrated and the results have shown completely different hydrogen bond dynamics detected in different mixture systems. In addition, the developed platform has been applied to study molecule diffusion at the interface between adjacent liquids in the multi-stream laminar flow inside the microfluidic subsystem. The reported THz microfluidic platform promises real-time and label-free chemical/biological sensing and imaging with extremely broad bandwidth, high spectral resolution, and high spatial resolution.
Comparison of Antioxidant Activities of Melanin Fractions from Chestnut Shell
Authors: Yao Zeng-Yu , Qi Jian-Hua
Published: April 2016

Chestnut shell melanin can be used as a colorant and antioxidant, and fractionated into three fractions (Fr. 1, Fr. 2, and Fr. 3) with different physicochemical properties. Antioxidant activities of the fractions were comparatively evaluated for the first time. The fractions exhibited different antioxidative potential in different evaluation systems. Fr. 1, which is only soluble in alkaline water, had the strongest peroxidation inhibition and superoxide anion scavenging activity; Fr. 2, which is soluble in alkaline water and hydrophilic organic solvents but insoluble in neutral and acidic water, had the greatest power to chelate ferrous ions; and Fr. 3, which is soluble both in hydrophilic organic solvents and in water at any pH conditions, had the greatest hydroxyl (·OH) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH·) radicals scavenging abilities, reducing power, and phenolic content. The pigment fractions were superior to butylated hydroxytolune (BHT) in ·OH and DPPH· scavenging and to ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) in the Fe2+–chelation. They were inferior to BHT in peroxidation inhibition and O2·− scavenging and reducing power. However, BHT is a synthetic antioxidant and cannot play the colorant role. The melanin fractions might be used as effective biological antioxidant colorants.
Breast Cancer Stem Cell Culture and Enrichment Using Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Scaffolds
Authors: Palomeras Sònia , Rabionet Marc , Ferrer Inés , Sarrats Ariadna , Garcia-Romeu Maria , Puig Teresa , Ciurana Joaquim
Published: April 2016

The cancer stem cell (CSC) population displays self-renewal capabilities, resistance to conventional therapies, and a tendency to post-treatment recurrence. Increasing knowledge about CSCs’ phenotype and functions is needed to investigate new therapeutic strategies against the CSC population. Here, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), a biocompatible polymer free of toxic dye, has been used to fabricate scaffolds, solid structures suitable for 3D cancer cell culture. It has been reported that scaffold cell culture enhances the CSCs population. A RepRap BCN3D+ printer and 3 mm PCL wire were used to fabricate circular scaffolds. PCL design and fabrication parameters were first determined and then optimized considering several measurable variables of the resulting scaffolds. MCF7 breast carcinoma cell line was used to assess scaffolds adequacy for 3D cell culture. To evaluate CSC enrichment, the Mammosphere Forming Index (MFI) was performed in 2D and 3D MCF7 cultures. Results showed that the 60° scaffolds were more suitable for 3D culture than the 45° and 90° ones. Moreover, 3D culture experiments, in adherent and non-adherent conditions, showed a significant increase in MFI compared to 2D cultures (control). Thus, 3D cell culture with PCL scaffolds could be useful to improve cancer cell culture and enrich the CSCs population.
Crystallization of Esomeprazole Magnesium Water/Butanol Solvate
Authors: Skieneh Jenna , Khalili Najafabadi Bahareh , Horne Stephen , Rohani Sohrab
Published: April 2016

The molecular structure of esomeprazole magnesium derivative in the solid-state is reported for the first time, along with a simplified crystallization pathway. The structure was determined using the single crystal X-ray diffraction technique to reveal the bonding relationships between esomeprazole heteroatoms and magnesium. The esomeprazole crystallization process was carried out in 1-butanol and water was utilized as anti-solvent. The product proved to be esomeprazole magnesium tetrahydrate with two 1-butanol molecules that crystallized in P63 space group, in a hexagonal unit cell. Complete characterization of a sample after drying was conducted by the use of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and dynamic vapor sorption (DVS). Investigation by 1H-NMR and TGA has shown that the solvent content in the dried sample consists of two water molecules and 0.3 butanol molecules per esomeprazole magnesium molecule. This is different from the single crystal X-ray diffraction results and can be attributed to the loss of some water and 1-butanol molecules stabilized by intermolecular interactions. The title compound, after drying, is a true solvate in terms of water; conversely, 1-butanol fills the voids of the crystal lattice in non-stoichiometric amounts.
Selenium in Cattle: A Review
Authors: Mehdi Youcef , Dufrasne Isabelle
Published: April 2016

This review article examines the role of selenium (Se) and the effects of Se supplementation especially in the bovine species. Selenium is an important trace element in cattle. Some of its roles include the participation in the antioxidant defense the cattle farms. The nutritional requirements of Se in cattle are estimated at 100 μg/kg DM (dry matter) for beef cattle and at 300 μg/kg DM for dairy cows. The rations high in fermentable carbohydrates, nitrates, sulfates, calcium or hydrogen cyanide negatively influence the organism’s use of the selenium contained in the diet. The Se supplementation may reduce the incidence of metritis and ovarian cysts during the postpartum period. The increase in fertility when adding Se is attributed to the reduction of the embryonic death during the first month of gestation. A use of organic Se in feed would provide a better transfer of Se in calves relative to mineral Se supplementation. The addition of Se yeasts in the foodstuffs of cows significantly increases the Se content and the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in milk compared to the addition of sodium selenite. The enzyme 5-iodothyronine deiodinase is a seleno-dependent selenoprotein. It is one of the last proteins to be affected in the event of Se deficiency. This delay in response could explain the fact that several studies did not show the effect of Se supplementation on growth and weight gain of calves. Enrichment of Se in the diet did not significantly affect the slaughter weight and carcass yield of bulls. The impact and results of Se supplementation in cattle depend on physiological stage, Se status of animals, type and content of Se and types of Se administration. Further studies in Se supplementation should investigate the speciation of Se in food and yeasts, as well as understanding their metabolism and absorption. This constitute a path to exploit in order to explain certain different effects of Se.
The Influence of Fluorination on Nano-Scale Phase Separation and Photovoltaic Performance of Small Molecular/PC71BM Blends
Authors: Lu Zhen , Liu Wen , Li Jingjing , Fang Tao , Li Wanning , Zhang Jicheng , Feng Feng , Li Wenhua
Published: April 2016

To investigate the fluorination influence on the photovoltaic performance of small molecular based organic solar cells (OSCs), six small molecules based on 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole (BT), and diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) as core and fluorinated phenyl (DFP) and triphenyl amine (TPA) as different terminal units (DFP-BT-DFP, DFP-BT-TPA, TPA-BT-TPA, DFP-DPP-DFP, DFP-DPP-TPA, and TPA-DPP-TPA) were synthesized. With one or two fluorinated phenyl as the end group(s), HOMO level of BT and DPP based small molecular donors were gradually decreased, inducing high open circuit voltage for fluorinated phenyl based OSCs. DFP-BT-TPA and DFP-DPP-TPA based blend films both displayed stronger nano-scale aggregation in comparison to TPA-BT-TPA and TPA-DPP-TPA, respectively, which would also lead to higher hole motilities in devices. Ultimately, improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 2.17% and 1.22% was acquired for DFP-BT-TPA and DFP-DPP-TPA based devices, respectively. These results demonstrated that the nano-scale aggregation size of small molecules in photovoltaic devices could be significantly enhanced by introducing a fluorine atom at the donor unit of small molecules, which will provide understanding about the relationship of chemical structure and nano-scale phase separation in OSCs.
An Evaluation of the Pea Pod System for Assessing Body Composition of Moderately Premature Infants
Authors: Forsum Elisabet , Olhager Elisabeth , Törnqvist Caroline
Published: April 2016

(1) Background: Assessing the quality of growth in premature infants is important in order to be able to provide them with optimal nutrition. The Pea Pod device, based on air displacement plethysmography, is able to assess body composition of infants. However, this method has not been sufficiently evaluated in premature infants; (2) Methods: In 14 infants in an age range of 3–7 days, born after 32–35 completed weeks of gestation, body weight, body volume, fat-free mass density (predicted by the Pea Pod software), and total body water (isotope dilution) were assessed. Reference estimates of fat-free mass density and body composition were obtained using a three-component model; (3) Results: Fat-free mass density values, predicted using Pea Pod, were biased but not significantly (p > 0.05) different from reference estimates. Body fat (%), assessed using Pea Pod, was not significantly different from reference estimates. The biological variability of fat-free mass density was 0.55% of the average value (1.0627 g/mL); (4) Conclusion: The results indicate that the Pea Pod system is accurate for groups of newborn, moderately premature infants. However, more studies where this system is used for premature infants are needed, and we provide suggestions regarding how to develop this area.
Literature Review and Meta-Analysis on Micronutrient Fortified Condiments and Noodles: Reduction of Anemia in Children and Adults
Authors: Osibogun Olatokunbo , Campa Adriana , Madhivanan Purnima
Published: April 2016

The importance of micronutrient fortification in countries with limited resources and prevalence of malnutrition cannot be overemphasized.[...]
The Association between Sweet Taste Function, Anthropometry, and Dietary Intake in Adults
Authors: Low Julia , Lacy Kathleen , McBride Robert , Keast Russell
Published: April 2016

Variation in ability to detect, recognize, and perceive sweetness may influence food consumption, and eventually chronic nutrition-related conditions such as overweight and obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between sweet taste function, anthropometry, and dietary intake in adults. Participants’ (n = 60; mean age in years = 26, SD = ±7.8) sweet taste function for a range of sweeteners (glucose, fructose, sucrose, sucralose, erythritol, and Rebaudioside A) was assessed by measuring detection and recognition thresholds and sweetness intensity. Height, weight, and waist circumference were also measured, and participants also completed a Food Frequency Questionnaire. There was large inter-individual variation in detection, recognition and sweetness intensity measures. Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed no robust correlations between measures of sweet taste function, anthropometry, and dietary intake, with the exception of suprathreshold intensity, which was moderately correlated with total energy intake (r = 0.23–0.40). One-way analysis of variance revealed no significant differences between the most and least sensitive participants in terms of BMI, waist circumference, and dietary intake for all measures of sweet taste function and sweeteners (all p > 0.01). When stratified into BMI categories, there were no significant differences in any measure of sweet taste function between the normal weight and overweight/obese participants (all p > 0.01). Results show that that sweet taste function is not associated with anthropometry and sweetness intensity measures are the most appropriate measure when assessing links between sweet taste and food consumption.
Cocoa Diet Prevents Antibody Synthesis and Modifies Lymph Node Composition and Functionality in a Rat Oral Sensitization Model
Authors: Camps-Bossacoma Mariona , Abril-Gil Mar , Saldaña-Ruiz Sandra , Franch Àngels , Pérez-Cano Francisco , Castell Margarida
Published: April 2016

Cocoa powder, a rich source of polyphenols, has shown immunomodulatory properties in both the intestinal and systemic immune compartments of rats. The aim of the current study was to establish the effect of a cocoa diet in a rat oral sensitization model and also to gain insight into the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) activities induced by this diet. To achieve this, three-week-old Lewis rats were fed either a standard diet or a diet with 10% cocoa and were orally sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) and with cholera toxin as a mucosal adjuvant. Specific antibodies were quantified, and lymphocyte composition, gene expression, and cytokine release were established in MLN. The development of anti-OVA antibodies was almost totally prevented in cocoa-fed rats. In addition, this diet increased the proportion of TCRγδ+ and CD103+CD8+ cells and decreased the proportion of CD62L+CD4+ and CD62L+CD8+ cells in MLN, whereas it upregulated the gene expression of OX40L, CD11c, and IL-1β and downregulated the gene expression of IL-17α. In conclusion, the cocoa diet induced tolerance in an oral sensitization model accompanied by changes in MLN that could contribute to this effect, suggesting its potential implication in the prevention of food allergies.
Stereocomplex-Reinforced PEGylated Polylactide Micelle for Optimized Drug Delivery
Authors: Feng Chunsheng , Piao Meihua , Li Di
Published: April 2016

The instability of PEGylated polylactide micelles is a challenge for drug delivery. Stereocomplex interaction between racemic polylactide chains with different configurations provides an effective strategy to enhance the stability of micelles as the nanocarriers of drugs. In this work, a stereocomplex micelle (SCM) self-assembled from the amphiphilic triblock copolymers comprising poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), and dextrorotatory and levorotatory polylactides (PDLA and PLLA) was applied for efficient drug delivery. The spherical SCM showed the smallest scale and the lowest critical micelle concentration (CMC) than the micelles with single components attributed to the stereocomplex interaction between PDLA and PLLA. 10-Hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) as a model antitumor drug was loaded into micelles. Compared with the loading micelles from individual PDLA and PLLA, the HCPT-loaded SCM exhibited the highest drug loading efficiency (DLE) and the slowest drug release in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at pH 7.4, indicating its enhanced stability in circulation. More fascinatingly, the laden SCM was demonstrated to have the highest cellular uptake of HCPT and suppress malignant cells most effectively in comparison to the HCPT-loaded micelles from single copolymer. In summary, the stereocomplex-enhanced PLA–PEG–PLA micelle may be promising for optimized drug delivery in the clinic.
Developing (Quantitative Structure Property Relationships) QSPR Techniques to Predict the Char Formation of Polybenzoxazines
Authors: Sairi Maryam , Howlin Brendan , Hamerton Ian
Published: April 2016

This study uses the Molecular Operating Environment software (MOE) to generate models to calculate the char yield of polybenzoxazines (PBz). A series of benzoxazine (Bz) monomers were constructed to which a variety of parameters relating to the structure (e.g., water accessible surface, negative van der Waals surface area and hydrophobic volume, etc.) were obtained and a quantitative structure property relationships (QSPR) model was generated. The model was used to generate data for new Bz monomers with desired properties and a comparison was made of predictions based on the QSPR model with the experimental data. This study shows the quality of predictive models and confirms how useful computational screening is prior to synthesis.