bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral Optical Tamm States: Temporal Coupled-Mode Theory
Authors: Timofeev Ivan V. , Pankin Pavel S. , Vetrov Stepan Ya. , Arkhipkin Vasily G. , Lee Wei , Zyryanov Victor Ya.
Published: April 2017

The chiral optical Tamm state (COTS) is a special localized state at the interface of a handedness-preserving mirror and a structurally chiral medium such as a cholesteric liquid crystal or a chiral sculptured thin film. The spectral behavior of COTS, observed as reflection resonances, is described by the temporal coupled-mode theory. Mode coupling is different for two circular light polarizations because COTS has a helical structure replicating that of the cholesteric. The mode coupling for co-handed circularly polarized light exponentially attenuates with the cholesteric layer thickness since the COTS frequency falls into the stop band. Cross-handed circularly polarized light freely goes through the cholesteric layer and can excite COTS when reflected from the handedness-preserving mirror. The coupling in this case is proportional to anisotropy of the cholesteric and theoretically only anisotropy in magnetic permittivity can ultimately cancel this coupling. These two couplings being equal result in a polarization crossover (the Kopp–Genack effect) for which a linear polarization is optimal to excite COTS. The corresponding cholesteric thickness and scattering matrix for COTS are generally described by simple expressions.
Simulation and Performance Analysis of Organic Rankine Systems for Stationary Compressed Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Song Songsong , Zhang Hongguang , Zhao Rui , Meng Fanxiao , Liu Hongda , Wang Jingfu , Yao Baofeng
Published: April 2017

The organic Rankine cycle (ORC) can be used to recover the waste heat from a stationary compressed natural gas (CNG) engine. However, the exhaust energy rate varies with engine load, which can influence the operating performance of the ORC system, therefore, it is necessary to study the running state of the ORC system. In this paper, first, the numerical simulation model of the ORC system is built by using GT-Suite software, with R245fa selected as the working fluid of the ORC system. The boundary conditions of the numerical simulation model are specified according to the measured data obtained by the stationary CNG engine test. Subsequently, the power output and dynamic characteristics of expander are analyzed to determine the running state of the ORC system. Investigations indicate that the fluctuation of refrigerant mass flow rate in the expander is obvious in the engine’s low-load regions (from 20% engine load to 40% engine load). The performances of ORC system and stationary CNG engine-ORC combined system (combined system) are finally investigated, respectively. The results show that the thermal efficiency of the combined system can be increased by a maximum 5.0% (at the engine rated condition), while the brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) can be reduced by a maximum 4.0% (at the engine rated condition).
A Unified Trading Model Based on Robust Optimization for Day-Ahead and Real-Time Markets with Wind Power Integration
Authors: Jiang Yuewen , Chen Meisen , You Shi
Published: April 2017

In a conventional electricity market, trading is conducted based on power forecasts in the day-ahead market, while the power imbalance is regulated in the real-time market, which is a separate trading scheme. With large-scale wind power connected into the power grid, power forecast errors increase in the day-ahead market which lowers the economic efficiency of the separate trading scheme. This paper proposes a robust unified trading model that includes the forecasts of real-time prices and imbalance power into the day-ahead trading scheme. The model is developed based on robust optimization in view of the undefined probability distribution of clearing prices of the real-time market. For the model to be used efficiently, an improved quantum-behaved particle swarm algorithm (IQPSO) is presented in the paper based on an in-depth analysis of the limitations of the static character of quantum-behaved particle swarm algorithm (QPSO). Finally, the impacts of associated parameters on the separate trading and unified trading model are analyzed to verify the superiority of the proposed model and algorithm.
Work Characteristics Associated with Physical Functioning in Women
Authors: Palumbo Aimee , De Roos Anneclaire , Cannuscio Carolyn , Robinson Lucy , Mossey Jana , Weitlauf Julie , Garcia Lorena , Wallace Robert , Michael Yvonne
Published: April 2017

Women make up almost half of the labor force with older women becoming a growing segment of the population. Work characteristics influence physical functioning and women are at particular risk for physical limitations. However, little research has explored the effects of work characteristics on women’s physical functioning. U.S. women between the ages of 50 and 79 were enrolled in the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study between 1993 and 1998. Women provided job titles and years worked at their three longest-held jobs (n = 79,147). Jobs were linked to characteristics in the Occupational Information Network. Three categories of job characteristics related to substantive complexity, physical demand, and social collaboration emerged. The association between job characteristics and physical limitations in later life, measured using a SF-36 Physical Functioning score <25th percentile, was examined using modified Poisson regression. After controlling for confounding variables, high physical demand was positively associated with physical limitations (RR = 1.09 CI: 1.06–1.12) and substantively complex work was negatively associated (RR = 0.94, CI: 0.91–0.96). Jobs requiring complex problem solving, active learning, and critical thinking were associated with better physical functioning. Employers should explore opportunities to reduce strain from physically demanding jobs and incorporate substantively complex tasks into women’s work to improve long-term health.
Health-Related Quality of Life of the General German Population in 2015: Results from the EQ-5D-5L
Authors: Huber Manuel , Felix Julia , Vogelmann Martin , Leidl Reiner
Published: April 2017

The EQ-5D-5L is a widely used generic instrument to measure health-related quality of life. This study evaluates health perception in a representative sample of the general German population from 2015. To compare results over time, a component analysis technique was used that separates changes in the description and valuation of health states. The whole sample and also subgroups, stratified by sociodemographic parameters as well as disease affliction, were analyzed. In total, 2040 questionnaires (48.4% male, mean age 47.3 year) were included. The dimension with the lowest number of reported problems was self-care (93.0% without problems), and the dimension with the highest proportion of impairment was pain/discomfort (71.2% without problems). Some 64.3% of the study population were identified as problem-free. The visual analog scale (VAS) mean for all participants was 85.1. Low education was connected with significantly lower VAS scores, but the effect was small. Depression, heart disease, and diabetes had a strong significant negative effect on reported VAS means. Results were slightly better than those in a similar 2012 survey; the most important driver was the increase in the share of the study population that reported to be problem-free. In international comparisons, health perception of the general German population is relatively high and, compared with previous German studies, fairly stable over recent years. Elderly and sick people continue to report significant reductions in perceived health states.
Demographic and Environmental Factors Associated with Mental Health: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Jayeun , Kim Ho
Published: April 2017

Relevant demographic and environmental conditions need to be understood before tailoring policies to improve mental health. Using community health survey data from 25 communities in Seoul, 2013, cross-sectional associations between mental health and community level environments were assessed. Mental health outcomes (self-rated stress levels (SRS) and depressive symptoms (DS)) were analyzed. Community environmental factors included green space, green facilities, and annual PM10 level (AnnPM10); socio-demographic factors included sex, age, education, labor market participation, comorbidity, sleep hours, physical activity, smoking, and drinking. A total of 23,139 people with the following characteristics participated: men (44.2%); age groups 19−39 (36.0%), 40−59 (39.4%), 60−74 (19.2%), and 75+ (5.4%). Women had higher odds ratios (OR) for SRS [OR 1.22, 95% Confidence interval (CI) 1.17–1.27] and DS [OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.42–1.71]. Regular physical activity predicted SRS [OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.84–0.95] and DS [OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.88–1.10]; current smoking and drinking were adversely associated with both SRS and DS. Higher accessibility to green space (Q4) was inversely associated with DS [OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81−0.97] compared to lower accessibility (Q1). AnnPM10, annual levels for particles of aerodynamic diameter <10 µm (PM10), among communities was associated with poorer SRS [OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00–1.04] by 10 μg/m3 increases. Therefore, both demographic and environmental factors should be considered to understand mental health conditions among the general population.
Impact of Acetazolamide, a Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor, on the Development of Intestinal Polyps in Min Mice
Authors: Noma Nobuharu , Fujii Gen , Miyamoto Shingo , Komiya Masami , Nakanishi Ruri , Shimura Misato , Tanuma Sei-ichi , Mutoh Michihiro
Published: April 2017

Colorectal cancer is a common cancer worldwide. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) catalyzes the reversible conversion of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate ion and a proton, and its inhibitor is reported to reduce cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Therefore, we asked whether acetazolamide, a CA inhibitor, could inhibit intestinal carcinogenesis. Five-week-old male Apc-mutant mice, Min mice, were fed a AIN-76A diet containing 200 or 400 ppm acetazolamide. As a result, acetazolamide treatment reduced the total number of intestinal polyps by up to 50% compared to the control group. In addition, the acetazolamide-treated group had low cell proliferation and a high apoptosis ratio in the intestinal polyp epithelial cells. Moreover, the mRNA expression level of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, involved in the cell proliferation was decreased in the polyp part of the acetazolamide-treated group. Next, we examined the effects of acetazolamide on the activation of several transcriptional factors (AP-1, HIF, HSF, NF-κB, NRF2, p53, and STAT3) using a reporter gene assay in human colon cancer cells, Caco-2 cells. Among the examined transcriptional factors, NRF2 transcriptional activation was strongly induced. NRF2-targeting genes, γGCS, GPx1, HO-1, and NQO-1, were also elevated in the intestinal polyps of acetazolamide-treated Min mice. Our results suggested that CA is involved in intestinal carcinogenesis. Acetazolamide could inhibit polyp formation through suppressing local/general cytokine levels, i.e., IL-6, via NRF2 activation.
Preparation and Characterization of Thermoresponsive Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid)-Grafted Hollow Fe3O4/SiO2 Microspheres with Surface Holes for BSA Release
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zeng Ming , Zheng Kaiqiang , He Xinhua , Xie Minqiang , Fu Xiaoyi
Published: April 2017

Thermoresponsive P(NIPAM-AA)/Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres with surface holes serving as carriers were prepared using p-Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres with a thermoresponsive copolymer. The p-Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres was obtained using a modified Pickering method and chemical etching. The surface pore size of p-Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres was in the range of 18.3 nm~37.2 nm and the cavity size was approximately 60 nm, which are suitable for loading and transporting biological macromolecules. P(NIPAM-AA) was synthesized inside and outside of the p-Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres via atom transfer radical polymerization of NIPAM, MBA and AA. The volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) of the specifically designed P(NIPAM-AA)/Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres was 42.5 °C. The saturation magnetization of P(NIPAM-AA)/Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres was 72.7 emu/g. The P(NIPAM-AA)/Fe3O4/SiO2 microspheres were used as carriers to study the loading and release behavior of BSA. This microsphere system shows potential for the loading of proteins as a drug delivery platform.
The Utilization of Multiple-Walled Carbon Nanotubes in Polymer Modified Bitumen
Authors: Shu Benan , Wu Shaopeng , Pang Ling , Javilla Barugahare
Published: April 2017

SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer) modified bitumen is one of most widely used polymer modified bitumens in China. It is also not satisfactory when subjected to extreme conditions. Multiple-walled carbon nanotubes, as a type of advanced nanomaterial, are investigated extensively because of their strong adsorption capacity. Little research has been done about MWCNTs/SBS modified bitumen, and in view of this, the performance and modification mechanism of MWCNTs/SBS modified bitumen was investigated in this paper. Conventional bitumen tests, Brookfield viscosity, bending beam rheometer, and dynamic shear rheometer tests showed improved performance at high and low temperature. The optimum MWCNTs content was determined as 1.0%. FT-IR, bitumen four components, and thermal analysis tests were conducted and revealed that the addition of MWCNTs led to a decrease in the content of light components. In addition, the rate of decomposition and volatilization of saturates and aromatics was reduced and better thermal stability of bitumen was found. Fluorescence microscopy tests showed that MWCNTs improved the dispersion of SBS and storage stability of the binder. Finally a schematic was proposed to explain how MWCNTs improved the performance of SBS modified bitumen through their strong adsorption property created by π–π intermolecular forces.
Optimization of Anodic Porous Alumina Fabricated from Commercial Aluminum Food Foils: A Statistical Approach
Authors: Riccomagno Eva , Shayganpour Amirreza , Salerno Marco
Published: April 2017

Anodic porous alumina is a known material based on an old industry, yet with emerging applications in nanoscience and nanotechnology. This is promising, but the nanostructured alumina should be fabricated from inexpensive raw material. We fabricated porous alumina from commercial aluminum food plate in 0.4 M aqueous phosphoric acid, aiming to design an effective manufacturing protocol for the material used as nanoporous filler in dental restorative composites, an application demonstrated previously by our group. We identified the critical input parameters of anodization voltage, bath temperature and anodization time, and the main output parameters of pore diameter, pore spacing and oxide thickness. Scanning electron microscopy and grain analysis allowed us to assess the nanostructured material, and the statistical design of experiments was used to optimize its fabrication. We analyzed a preliminary dataset, designed a second dataset aimed at clarifying the correlations between input and output parameters, and ran a confirmation dataset. Anodization conditions close to 125 V, 20°C, and 7 h were identified as the best for obtaining, in the shortest possible time, pore diameters and spacing of 100–150 nm and 150–275 nm respectively, and thickness of 6–8 µm, which are desirable for the selected application according to previously published results. Our analysis confirmed the linear dependence of pore size on anodization voltage and of thickness on anodization time. The importance of proper control on the experiment was highlighted, since batch effects emerge when the experimental conditions are not exactly reproduced.
The In Vitro Bioactivity, Degradation, and Cytotoxicity of Polymer-Derived Wollastonite-Diopside Glass-Ceramics
Authors: Juraski Amanda De Castro , Rodas Andrea Cecilia Dorion , Elsayed Hamada , Bernardo Enrico , Soares Viviane Oliveira , Daguano Juliana
Published: April 2017

Ca-Mg silicates are receiving a growing interest in the field of bioceramics. In a previous study, wollastonite-diopside (WD) glass-ceramics were successfully prepared by a new processing route, consisting of the heat treatment of a silicone resin embedding reactive oxide particles and a Ca/Mg-rich glass. The in vitro degradation, bioactivity, and cell response of these new WD glass-ceramics, fired at 900–1100 °C for 1 h, as a function of the Ca/Mg-rich glass content, are the aim of this investigation The results showed that WD glass-ceramics from formulations comprising different glass contents (70–100% at 900 °C, 30% at 1100 °C) exhibit the formation of an apatite-like layer on their surface after immersion in SBF for seven days, thus confirming their surface bioactivity. The XRD results showed that these samples crystallized, mainly forming wollastonite (CaSiO3) and diopside (CaMgSi2O6), but combeite (Na2Ca2Si3O9) crystalline phase was also detected. Besides in vitro bioactivity, cytotoxicity and osteoblast adhesion and proliferation tests were applied after all characterizations, and the formulation comprising 70% glass was demonstrated to be promising for further in vivo studies.
In Situ Formation of Decavanadate-Intercalated Layered Double Hydroxide Films on AA2024 and their Anti-Corrosive Properties when Combined with Hybrid Sol Gel Films
Authors: Wu Junsheng , Peng Dongdong , He Yuntao , Du Xiaoqiong , Zhang Zhan , Zhang Bowei , Li Xiaogang , Huang Yizhong
Published: April 2017

A layered double hydroxide (LDH) film was formed in situ on aluminum alloy 2024 through a urea hydrolysis method, and a decavanadate-intercalated LDH (LDH-V) film fabricated through the dip coating method. The microstructural and morphological characteristics were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The corrosion-resistant performance was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), and a salt-spray test (SST).The SEM results showed that a complete and defect-free surface was formed on the LDH-VS film. The anticorrosion results revealed that the LDH-VS film had better corrosion-resistant properties than the LDH-S film, especially long-term corrosion resistance. The mechanism of corrosion protection was proposed to consist of the self-healing effect of the decavanadate intercalation and the shielding effect of the sol-gel film.
Dynamic Simulation of the Harvester Boom Cylinder
Authors: Shen Rongfeng , Zhang Xiaozhen , Zhou Chengjun
Published: April 2017

Based on the complete dynamic calculation method, the layout, force, and strength of harvester boom cylinders were designed and calculated. Closed simulations for the determination of the dynamic responses of the harvester boom during luffing motion considering the cylinder drive system and luffing angle position control have been realized. Using the ADAMS mechanical system dynamics analysis software, six different arm poses were selected and simulated based on the cylinder as the analysis object. A flexible model of the harvester boom luffing motion has been established. The movement of the oil cylinder under different conditions were analyzed, and the main operation dimensions of the harvester boom and the force condition of the oil cylinder were obtained. The calculation results show that the dynamic responses of the boom are more sensitive to the luffing acceleration, in comparison with the luffing velocity. It is seen that this method is very effective and convenient for boom luffing simulation. It is also reasonable to see that the extension of the distance of the bottom of the boom is shortened by adjusting the initial state of the boom in the working process, which can also effectively reduce the workload of the boom—thus improving the mechanical efficiency.
A Review of the State of Dry Adhesives: Biomimetic Structures and the Alternative Designs They Inspire
Authors: Eisenhaure Jeffrey , Kim Seok
Published: April 2017

Robust and inexpensive dry adhesives would have a multitude of potential applications, but replicating the impressive adhesive organs of many small animals has proved challenging. A substantial body of work has been produced in recent years which has illuminated the many mechanical processes influencing a dry adhesive interface. The especially potent footpads of the tokay gecko have inspired researchers to develop and examine an impressive and diverse collection of artificial fibrillar dry adhesives, though study of tree frogs and insects demonstrate that successful adhesive designs come in many forms. This review discusses the current theoretical understanding of dry adhesive mechanics, including the observations from biological systems and the lessons learned by recent attempts to mimic them. Attention is drawn in particular to the growing contingent of work exploring ideas which are complimentary to or an alternative for fibrillar designs. The fundamentals of compliance control form a basis for dry adhesives made of composite and “smart,” stimuli-responsive materials including shape memory polymers. An overview of fabrication and test techniques, with a sampling of performance results, is provided.
The Exploration for an Appropriate Vacuum Level for Performance Enhancement of a Comb-Drive Microscanner
Authors: Zhao Rong , Qiao Dayong , Song Xiumin , You Qiaoming
Published: April 2017

In order to identify the influence of the vacuum environment on the performance of a comb-drive microscanner, and indicate the optimum pressure for enhancing its performance, a comb-drive microscanner fabricated on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate was prepared and tested at different pressures, and the characteristics in vacuum were obtained. The test results revealed that the vacuum environment enhanced the performance in the optical scanning angle, and decreased the actuation voltage. With a 30 V driving voltage applied, the microscanner can reach an optical scanning angle of 44.3° at a pressure of 500 Pa. To obtain an enhancement in its properties, only a vacuum range from 100 to 1000 Pa is needed, which can be very readily and economically realized and maintained in a vacuum package.
Opportunities and Challenges in Flexible and Stretchable Electronics: A Panel Discussion at ISFSE2016
Authors: Wu Zhigang , Huang Yongan , Chen Rong
Published: April 2017

The 2016 International Symposium of Flexible and Stretchable Electronics (ISFSE2016), co-sponsored by the Flexible Electronics Research Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) & State Key Laboratory of Digital Manufacturing and Equipment Technology, National Natural Science and Engineering (NSFC), was successfully held in Wuhan, China, 29–30 June 2016.[...]
The Status of Biofilms in Penile Implants
Authors: Faller Matthew , Kohler Tobias
Published: April 2017

Erectile dysfunction is prevalent among men and will continue to become more so with the aging population. Of the available treatment options, implantable prosthetic devices are typically thought of as a third line treatment even though they have the highest satisfaction rate and continually improving success rates. Infection and mechanical failure are the most common reasons for implant revision in the past. Since the development of more reliable devices, bacterial biofilms are coming to the forefront of discussion as causes of required revision. Biofilms are problematic as they are ubiquitous and exceedingly difficult to prevent or treat.
The Association between Breakfast Skipping and Body Weight, Nutrient Intake, and Metabolic Measures among Participants with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Cordeiro Lorraine , Liu Jinghua , Ma Yunsheng
Published: April 2017

The effect of skipping breakfast on health, especially in adults, remains a controversial topic. A secondary data analysis was conducted to examine associations between breakfast eating patterns and weight loss, nutrient intake, and metabolic parameters among participants with metabolic syndrome (MetS) (n = 240). Three randomly selected 24-h dietary recalls were collected from each participant at baseline and at the one-year visit. Skipped breakfast was seen in 32.9% at baseline and in 17.4% at the one-year visit, respectively. At baseline, after adjustment for demographics and physical activity, participants who ate breakfast had a higher thiamin, niacin, and folate intake than did breakfast skippers (p < 0.05); other selected parameters including body weight, dietary quality scores, nutrient intake, and metabolic parameters showed no significant differences between the two groups (p ≥ 0.05). From baseline to one year, after adjustment for covariates, mean fat intake increased by 2.7% (95% confidence intervals (CI): −1.0, 6.5%) of total energy in breakfast skippers in comparison to the 1.2% decrease observed in breakfast eaters (95% CI: −3.4, 1.1%) (p = 0.02). Mean changes in other selected parameters showed no significant differences between breakfast skippers and eaters (p > 0.05). This study did not support the hypothesis that skipping breakfast has impact on body weight, nutrient intakes, and selected metabolic measures in participants with MetS.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Insulin Resistance: New Insights and Potential New Treatments
Authors: Kitade Hironori , Chen Guanliang , Ni Yinhua , Ota Tsuguhito
Published: April 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver disorders worldwide. It is associated with clinical states such as obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, and covers a wide range of liver changes, ranging from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Metabolic disorders, such as lipid accumulation, insulin resistance, and inflammation, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, but the underlying mechanisms, including those that drive disease progression, are not fully understood. Both innate and recruited immune cells mediate the development of insulin resistance and NASH. Therefore, modifying the polarization of resident and recruited macrophage/Kupffer cells is expected to lead to new therapeutic strategies in NAFLD. Oxidative stress is also pivotal for the progression of NASH, which has generated interest in carotenoids as potent micronutrient antioxidants in the treatment of NAFLD. In addition to their antioxidative function, carotenoids regulate macrophage/Kupffer cell polarization and thereby prevent NASH progression. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, including macrophage/Kupffer cell polarization, and disturbed hepatic function in NAFLD. We also discuss dietary antioxidants, such as β-cryptoxanthin and astaxanthin, that may be effective in the prevention or treatment of NAFLD.
Fructose Intake, Serum Uric Acid, and Cardiometabolic Disorders: A Critical Review
Authors: Caliceti Cristiana , Calabria Donato , Roda Aldo , Cicero Arrigo
Published: April 2017

There is a direct relationship between fructose intake and serum levels of uric acid (UA), which is the final product of purine metabolism. Recent preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that chronic hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. It is probably also an independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline. These relationships have been observed for high serum UA levels (>5.5 mg/dL in women and >6 mg/dL in men), but also for normal to high serum UA levels (5–6 mg/dL). In this regard, blood UA levels are much higher in industrialized countries than in the rest of the world. Xanthine-oxidase inhibitors can reduce UA and seem to minimize its negative effects on vascular health. Other dietary and pathophysiological factors are also related to UA production. However, the role of fructose-derived UA in the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic disorders has not yet been fully clarified. Here, we critically review recent research on the biochemistry of UA production, the relationship between fructose intake and UA production, and how this relationship is linked to cardiometabolic disorders.
Do Chinese Children Get Enough Micronutrients?
Authors: Wang Huijun , Wang Dantong , Ouyang Yifei , Huang Feifei , Ding Gangqiang , Zhang Bing
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to examine usual daily micronutrient intake of Chinese children based on data from the 2011 China Health and Nutrition Survey. We analyzed data from 4 to 17-year-old participants, who provided dietary data on three consecutive days combined with the household weighing method in 2011. Usual daily intake of each nutrient was estimated using a mixed effects model based on the China Food Composition published in 2009. The means, medians and percentages below Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) were reported for selected micronutrients, including calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin and vitamin C. For sodium and potassium, the means and the distribution of intakes were compared to the Adequate Intake (AI) level. The average usual daily intakes of all micronutrients increase with age, and the intakes of boys were found to be higher than girls in the same age group. The average calcium intake increased from 272 mg/day in 4–6 years to 391 mg/day in 14–17 years, but the percentage of inadequate calcium intake remained very high (>96%). The prevalence of inadequacy of calcium was the highest among the mineral nutrients reported in this study. As the requirements of micronutrients increased with age, the percentage of subjects with inadequate intake increased in the 11–17 years age groups. Among 14–17 years group, the percentages of study participants with dietary intakes of calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin and vitamin C below the EAR were 96.8%, 18.8%, 37.6%, 72.8%, 36.8%, 91.8%. 85.9% and 75.5%, respectively. Among 11–13 years group, the percentages of study participants with dietary intakes of iron, zinc and vitamin A below the EAR were 23.5%, 41.5%, and 41.6%, respectively. Thus, micronutrient deficiency is a problem in Chinese children. Nutrition education and intervention programs are needed to address these nutritional gaps.
Application of Hydrogen Peroxide as an Innovative Method of Treatment for Legionella Control in a Hospital Water Network
Authors: Casini Beatrice , Aquino Francesco , Totaro Michele , Miccoli Mario , Galli Irio , Manfredini Laura , Giustarini Carlo , Costa Anna , Tuvo Benedetta , Valentini Paola , Privitera Gaetano , Baggiani Angelo
Published: April 2017

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide (HP) use as a disinfectant in the hospital water network for the control of Legionella spp. colonization. Methods: Following the detection of high levels of Legionella contamination in a 136-bed general hospital water network, an HP treatment of the hot water supply (25 mg/L) was adopted. During a period of 34 months, the effectiveness of HP on Legionella colonization was assessed. Legionella was isolated in accordance with ISO-11731 and identification was carried out by sequencing of the mip gene. Results: Before HP treatment, L. pneumophila sg 2–15 was isolated in all sites with a mean count of 9950 ± 8279 cfu/L. After one-month of HP treatment, we observed the disappearance of L. pneumophila 2–15, however other Legionella species previously not seen were found; Legionella pneumophila 1 was isolated in one out of four sampling sites (2000 cfu/L) and other non-pneumophila species were present in all sites (mean load 3000 ± 2887 cfu/L). Starting from September 2013, HP treatment was modified by adding food-grade polyphosphates, and in the following months, we observed a progressive reduction of the mean load of all species (p < 0.05), resulting in substantial disappearance of Legionella colonization. Conclusion: Hydrogen peroxide demonstrated good efficacy in controlling Legionella. Although in the initial phases of treatment it appeared unable to eliminate all Legionella species, by maintaining HP levels at 25 mg/L and adding food-grade polyphosphates, a progressive and complete control of colonization was obtained.
Biotinylated Chlorin and Its Zinc and Indium Complexes: Synthesis and In Vitro Biological Evaluation for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Isaac-Lam Meden , Hammonds Dewana
Published: April 2017

The synthesis and characterization of biotinylated chlorin photosensitizer and the corresponding zinc and indium complexes are described for potential applications in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for cancer. Phototoxicity of the biotin-chlorin conjugate and the metallated complexes was determined in colon carcinoma CT26 cell lines known to overexpress biotin (Vit B7) receptors. Cell survival assay indicated that the biotinylated chlorin and indium complex showed increased cell growth inhibition than the zinc complex and the starting chlorin (methyl pheophorbide). Fluorescence microcopy studies revealed the generation of apoptotic cells upon light irradiation of colon cells treated with the indium complex. Targeting biotin receptors in cancer cells can improve specificity of photosensitizers for PDT applications.
A Theoretical Study and Numerical Simulation of a Quasi-Distributed Sensor Based on the Low-Finesse Fabry-Perot Interferometer: Frequency-Division Multiplexing
Authors: Guillen Bonilla José , Guillen Bonilla Alex , Rodríguez Betancourtt Verónica , Guillen Bonilla Héctor , Casillas Zamora Antonio
Published: April 2017

The application of the sensor optical fibers in the areas of scientific instrumentation and industrial instrumentation is very attractive due to its numerous advantages. In the industry of civil engineering for example, quasi-distributed sensors made with optical fiber are used for reliable strain and temperature measurements. Here, a quasi-distributed sensor in the frequency domain is discussed. The sensor consists of a series of low-finesse Fabry-Perot interferometers where each Fabry-Perot interferometer acts as a local sensor. Fabry-Perot interferometers are formed by pairs of identical low reflective Bragg gratings imprinted in a single mode fiber. All interferometer sensors have different cavity length, provoking frequency-domain multiplexing. The optical signal represents the superposition of all interference patterns which can be decomposed using the Fourier transform. The frequency spectrum was analyzed and sensor’s properties were defined. Following that, a quasi-distributed sensor was numerically simulated. Our sensor simulation considers sensor properties, signal processing, noise system, and instrumentation. The numerical results show the behavior of resolution vs. signal-to-noise ratio. From our results, the Fabry-Perot sensor has high resolution and low resolution. Both resolutions are conceivable because the Fourier Domain Phase Analysis (FDPA) algorithm elaborates two evaluations of Bragg wavelength shift.
The Biogeophysical Effects of Revegetation around Mining Areas: A Case Study of Dongsheng Mining Areas in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Chen Guoqing , Wang Mingjiu , Liu Zhengjia , Chi Wenfeng
Published: April 2017

The biogeophysical effects of land cover change (LCC) on land surface temperature are largely understood, especially in tropical and boreal zones, but fewer studies have reported the biogeophysical consequences of ecological restoration of mining areas located in arid and semi-arid temperate zones. In this study, we employed 2000–2015 satellite-based net radiation (Rn) and latent heat flux (LE) data from mining areas (taking Dongsheng in Inner Mongolia as an example) and adjacent ecological restoration areas to understand the biogeophysical effect of revegetation around mining areas. The results showed that revegetation increased Rn (0.25 ± 0.17 W/m2) and LE (0.43 ± 0.26 W/m2). The warming effect of increased Rn (∆Rn), however, was completely offset by the cooling effect of increased LE (∆LE), thus revegetation caused an overall cooling effect of −0.18 ± 0.17 W/m2. Land surface temperature (LST) from mining areas and adjacent ecological restoration areas also showed that revegetation decreased LST (∆LST being −0.2 ± 0.1 K). The difference of ∆Rn and ∆LE explained 27% of the ∆LST variations. These findings reinforce our understanding for the potential climatic benefits of the ecological restoration around mining areas in arid and semi-arid temperate zones.
Epidemiology and Characteristics of Rickettsia australis (Queensland Tick Typhus) Infection in Hospitalized Patients in North Brisbane, Australia
Authors: Stewart Adam , Armstrong Mark , Graves Stephen , Hajkowicz Krispin
Published: April 2017

Queensland Tick Typhus (QTT; Rickettsia australis) is a Spotted Fever Group (SFG) rickettsial infection endemic to Australia. It is an underreported and often unrecognized illness with poorly defined epidemiology. This article describes epidemiological features and the geographical distribution of QTT in hospitalized patients. Cases of QTT were identified retrospectively from 2000–2015 at five sites in Northern Brisbane through a pathology database. Included cases had a four-fold rise in SFG-specific serology, a single SFG-specific serology ≥256 or an SFG-specific serology ≥128 with a clinically consistent illness. Of the fifty cases identified by serology, 36 were included. Age ranged from 3–72 years (with a mean of 39.5 years) with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.1. Fifteen of 36 (42%) study participants had hobbies and/or occupations linked with the acquisition of the disease. Seventeen of 36 (47%) identified a tick bite in the days preceding presentation to hospital, and reported exposure to a known animal host was minimal (25%). QTT infection occurred throughout the year, with half reported between April and July. Recent ecological and sociocultural changes have redefined the epidemiology of this zoonotic illness, with areas of heightened infection identified. Heightened public health awareness is required to monitor QTT disease activity.
An Urban “Mixity”: Spatial Dynamics of Social Interactions and Human Behaviors in the Abese informal Quarter of La Dadekotopon, Ghana
Authors: Okyere Seth , Diko Stephen , Hiraoka Miyuki , Kita Michihiro
Published: April 2017

Informal settlements form part of the socio-spatial landscape of urban areas. Yet little is known about their spatial aspects, compared to the social aspects. With global attention on sustainable cities and inclusive urban planning, there is a need to pay attention to the spatial dynamics of human behavior and interactions as they have ramifications for the sustainable planning and design of informal spaces. Using observation and mapping, this paper emphasizes the spatial dynamics of social interactions and human behavior in the indigenous settlement of the Abese quarter of La Dadekotopon, Ghana. Spatially, the study identifies a hierarchical, irregular, and open system of roads and alleys that support residents’ everyday life. An “urban mixity” pattern of human behavior exists in the quarter, which denotes the social and physical use of informal urban spaces by residents to fulfill different needs at various times of the day. This creates lively urban spaces within the quarter. The location and physical characteristics, microclimate, and residents’ needs have contributed to this kind of informal urban spaces. This paper argues for planning and design improvement that integrate, rather than supplant, existing local physical characteristics, social interactions and human behaviors to maintain local identity and sustain urban life.
Relationships between chemical structure, mechanical properties and materials processing in nanopatterned organosilicate fins
Authors: Stan Gheorghe , Gates Richard S , Hu Qichi , Kjoller Kevin , Prater Craig , Jit Singh Kanwal , Mays Ebony , King Sean W
Published: April 2017

The exploitation of nanoscale size effects to create new nanostructured materials necessitates the development of an understanding of relationships between molecular structure, physical properties and material processing at the nanoscale. Numerous metrologies capable of thermal, mechanical, and electrical characterization at the nanoscale have been demonstrated over the past two decades. However, the ability to perform nanoscale molecular/chemical structure characterization has only been recently demonstrated with the advent of atomic-force-microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) and related techniques. Therefore, we have combined measurements of chemical structures with AFM-IR and of mechanical properties with contact resonance AFM (CR-AFM) to investigate the fabrication of 20–500 nm wide fin structures in a nanoporous organosilicate material. We show that by combining these two techniques, one can clearly observe variations of chemical structure and mechanical properties that correlate with the fabrication process and the feature size of the organosilicate fins. Specifically, we have observed an inverse correlation between the concentration of terminal organic groups and the stiffness of nanopatterned organosilicate fins. The selective removal of the organic component during etching results in a stiffness increase and reinsertion via chemical silylation results in a stiffness decrease. Examination of this effect as a function of fin width indicates that the loss of terminal organic groups and stiffness increase occur primarily at the exposed surfaces of the fins over a length scale of 10–20 nm. While the observed structure–property relationships are specific to organosilicates, we believe the combined demonstration of AFM-IR with CR-AFM should pave the way for a similar nanoscale characterization of other materials where the understanding of such relationships is essential.
A New Photometric Study of Ap and Am Stars in the Infrared
Authors: Chen P. S. , Liu J. Y. , Shan H. G.
Published: April 2017

In this paper, 426 well known confirmed Ap and Am stars are photometrically studied in the infrared. The 2MASS, Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE), and IRAS data are employed to make analyses. The results in this paper have shown that in the 1–3 μm region over 90% Ap and Am stars have no or little infrared excesses, and infrared radiations in the near-infrared from these stars are probably dominated by the free–free emissions. It is also shown that in the 3–12 μm region, the majority of Ap stars and Am stars have very similar behavior, i.e., in the W1–W2 (3.4–4.6 μm) region, over half of Ap and Am stars have clear infrared excesses, which are possibly due to the binarity, the multiplicity, and/or the debris disk, but in the W2–W3 (4.6–12 μm) region they have no or little infrared excess. In addition, in the 12–22 μm region, some of Ap stars and Am stars show the infrared excesses and infrared radiations for these Ap and Am stars are probably due to the free–free emissions. In addition, it is seen that the probability of being the binarity, the multiplicity and/or the debris disk for Am stars is much higher than that for Ap stars. Furthermore, it can be seen that, in general, no relations can be found between infrared colors and spectral types either for Ap stars or for Am stars.
Magnetar-powered Supernovae in Two Dimensions. II. Broad-line Supernovae Ic
Authors: Chen Ke-Jung , Moriya Takashi J. , Woosley Stan , Sukhbold Tuguldur , Whalen Daniel J. , Suwa Yudai , Bromm Volker
Published: April 2017

Nascent neutron stars (NSs) with millisecond periods and magnetic fields in excess of 1016 Gauss can drive highly energetic and asymmetric explosions known as magnetar-powered supernovae. These exotic explosions are one theoretical interpretation for supernovae Ic-BL, which are sometimes associated with long gamma-ray bursts. Twisted magnetic field lines extract the rotational energy of the NS and release it as a disk wind or a jet with energies greater than 1052 erg over ∼20 s. What fraction of the energy of the central engine go into the wind and the jet remain unclear. We have performed two-dimensional hydrodynamical simulations of magnetar-powered supernovae (SNe) driven by disk winds and jets with the CASTRO code to investigate the effect of the central engine on nucleosynthetic yields, mixing, and light curves. We find that these explosions synthesize less than 0.05

of

and that this mass is not very sensitive to central engine type. The morphology of the explosion can provide a powerful diagnostic of the properties of the central engine. In the absence of a circumstellar medium, these events are not very luminous, with peak bolometric magnitudes of

due to low

production.
Correlation Between Mesopic Retinal Sensitivity and Optical Coherence Tomographic Metrics of the Outer Retina in Patients With Non-Atrophic Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Tepelus Tudor C. , Hariri Amir H. , Al-Sheikh Mayss , Sadda SriniVas R.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine the correlation between mesopic retinal sensitivity and optical coherence tomographic metrics of the outer retina in patients with intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Participants with nonatrophic dry AMD underwent mesopic MP-3 microperimetry (Nidek, Padova, Italy) and both Nidek and Cirrus (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The volume of the outer retinal layers was measured on the Nidek SD-OCT scans using the automatic segmentation algorithm of Navis-EX software. In addition, drusen area and volume within a 5-mm circle centered on the fovea were determined using the Cirrus Advanced RPE Analysis Tool. The mean retinal sensitivity at 8° and 10° of fixation (5-mm and 6-mm circles) was calculated for every eye. The correlation between retinal sensitivity and patient age, outer retinal layer volume, drusen area, and drusen volume was assessed.

RESULTS:

Thirty-seven eyes from 25 patients with non-atrophic dry AMD were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 76 years ± 9 years. The mean sensitivity across the whole tested retinal area was 24.9 dB ± 2.4 dB, with a sensitivity of 25.1 dB ± 2.4 dB within the central 5-mm circle. Drusen area within the central 5-mm circle was 0.7 mm
2
± 0.89 mm
2
with a drusen volume of 0.03 mm
3
± 0.04 mm
3
. Retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor outer segment (RPE + OS) volume was 1.96 mm
3
± 0.1 mm
3
, and outer nuclear layer (ONL) volume was 1.91 mm
3
± 0.17 mm
3
. There was a significant correlation between RPE + OS volume and retinal sensitivity, as well as between patients' age and retinal sensitivity. There was no significant correlation between drusen area or volume and retinal sensitivity, nor between ONL volume and retinal sensitivity.

CONCLUSION:

In eyes with nonatrophic AMD, retinal sensitivity is correlated with the RPE + OS volume, but not the ONL volume or the area or volume of drusen.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2017;48:312–318.]