bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Convective, Diffusive and Source Terms in Self Generated Magnetic Field due to Laser Plasma Interactions
Authors: Khanal S. , Khanal R
Published: October 2017

Laser-plasma interaction phenomenon has various applications and the most important one is in the Inertial confinement Fusion. Spatial and temporal variations of self generated magnetic field have been studied within the framework of magneto hydrodynamics. The evolution equation that describes the generation of magnetic field is solved using complex Fourier and Laplace transformation methods as an initial value problem. Convective, diffusive and source terms are considered in the evolution equation and are solved theoretically. Magnetic fields of the order of megagauss have been obtained among which the maximum field is just about 40 MG. The results are comparable with earlier reported results.The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 27-30
Electrical Conductivity: Classical Electron and Quantum Mechanical Approaches
Authors: Adhikari Krishna Raj
Published: October 2017

This article presents some review and annotations about classical electron and the quantum mechanical approaches to describe the electrical conductivity of materials specially metals. The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 31-35
Seismicity Pattern Analysis in and around Shillong Great Earthquake of 1897
Authors: Panthi Ananta , Bhattarai Jyoti
Published: October 2017

The seismicity data of the last 50 years (1963-2012) of the region bounded by 89° - 93° E and 24° -28° N have been analyzed for understanding the seismic characteristics in and around Shillong great earthquake of 1897. The distribution of earthquakes for this period shows sporadic nature of seismic activity in the region. The study of earthquake frequency, the spatio-temporal patterns of seismicity, the focal depth distribution, and the energy release pattern during the period 1963-2012 considering the events with cut-off magnitude (mb ≥ 4.5) have revealed that the region is seismically active. It is observed that most of the seismicity over the Shillong region is associated with the Main Central Thrust, Main Boundary Thrust and Transverse faults. The earthquake occurrence pattern is non-uniform and mostly shallow and intermediate focus in nature. Further, it has been observed that there exists a non-uniform pattern of seismic energy release.The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 36-38
Intensity Revival of Weak Symmetric Infrared Band is Possible in Ubiquinone Molecules through the Asymmetric Site-specific Isotope Labeling
Authors: Lamichhane Hari Prasad
Published: October 2017

Modifications of Infrared (IR) spectral bands of ubiquinone molecule (UQ1) upon site-specific 13C labeling at the C5 or C6 position are studied in CCl4 using Gaussian 03. Polarizable continuum model (PCM) has been used to optimize the UQ1 molecule in solvent. The unlabeled neutral ubiquinone molecule consists of three intense IR bands in the frequency region between 1700 cm-1 to 1550 cm-1. The symmetric fourth band in this spectral region does not appear in the spectrum because of very weak intensity. However, site-specific 13C labeling at C5 or C6 position removes the molecular symmetry and hence there appear four equivalent IR bands in the spectral region thus considered. This observation explains why there appears an extra spectral band in the experimental spectra observed by Brudler, R. et al [1].The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 39-46
Electronic Spectroscopy And Its Interpretation
Authors: Thakur Pramod Kumar
Published: October 2017

Electronic Spectroscopy relies on the quantized nature of energy states. At given enough energy, an electron can be excited from its initial ground state or initial excited state (hot band) and briefly exist in a higher energy excited state. Electronic transitions involve exciting an electron from one principle quantum state to another. Without incentive, an electron will not transition to a higher level.. The Himalayan Physics Vol. 5, No. 5, Nov. 2014 Page: 112-115
Intrusion of Moisture over the Kathmandu Valley from Southern Plain
Authors: Maharjan Sangeeta
Published: October 2017

Available with full text.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 5, No. 5, Nov. 2014 Page: 116-120
Dark Energy
Authors: Shrestha Chhabi Kumar
Published: October 2017

This work is focused to investigate the evidence of existence of the dark energy, its composition, its effects, its nature and some theories to explain Dark Energy, estimation of distributed matter and energy in the universe. Dark energy is the most mysterious hypothetical form of energy that indicates the expansion of the universe. The Himalayan Physics Year 5, Vol. 5, Kartik 2071 (Nov 2014)Page: 126-130
Low-cost Instrument for Characterization of Solar Cells
Authors: Joshi Prakash Joshi
Published: October 2017

A low cost home-made instrument for characterization of solar cells has provided reliable data for drawing current versus voltage curves of the solar cells under test. The low cost instrument can be an alternative to high-cost standard instruments used for testing solar cells by determining light-to-electricity conversion efficiencies of the solar cells. Calibrations of commercially available mini-solar panels (silicon cells) with respect to a standard pyranometer (SolData) show that the mini-panels can measure solar radiation.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (37-40)
Assessment of Noise Pollution in Different Hatbazars of Butwal City, Rupandehi, Nepal
Authors: Rayamajhi Kamal Bahadur
Published: October 2017

The study was carried out to ascertain the level of noise pollution at five different hatbazars (periodic markets) of Butwal Sub-Metropolitan city by using Dick Smith Digital Sound Level Meter Q 1362 in the specific time from 4:00 PM to 5:00PM in the month of June 2016 on a hatbazar day and a usual day. The result shows that the heighest Leq of 79.8 dB(A) was observed on hatbazar day at Butwal hatbazar. However, on non hatbazar day the highest Leq of 71.9 dB(A) was observed at Purano bus park hatbazar. The lowest Leq of 64.9 dB(A) and 54.6 dB(A) were respectively observed on hatbazar day and non hatbazar day at Majhagaun hatbazar. The study shows that the noise level was found to be higher on hatbazar day as compared to non hatbazar day in all sampling sites. The commercial activities, crowd of people, unnecessary advertisement of goods, blasting of horns increase noise levels in hatbazars.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (61-64)
Siesmic Activity and its Periphery
Authors: Lamsal Min Raj
Published: October 2017

Earthquake is a series of vibrations within the earth's crust. It occurs when the earth's crust break due to geological forces on the rock and adjoining plate. Earthquake refers to a movement or tremor of the earth’s crust that originates naturally and below the surface. An earthquake is a vibration or oscillation of the surface of the earth caused by a transient disturbance of the elastic or gravitational equilibrium of the rocks at or beneath the surface. There are two causes of earthquakes. One is religious concept and the other is modern concept. Earthquakes are of different types according to their place of origin and location. There are so many effects of earthquakes.The Himalayan Physics Vol. 6 & 7, April 2017 (86-91)
Does Every Patient Require Imaging after Cervical Spine Trauma? A Knowledge Translation Project to Support Evidence-Informed Practice for Physiotherapists
Authors: Belot Marj , Hoens Alison M. , Kennedy Carol , Li Linda C.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: This article evaluates, describes, and addresses a gap in British Columbia physiotherapists' knowledge of the decision making required for the diagnostic imaging of patients after traumatic neck injury. Method: An online survey of orthopaedic physiotherapists in British Columbia was undertaken to explore their awareness of, knowledge of, and attitudes toward the Canadian Cervical Spine Rule (C-Spine Rule) and decision making regarding the need for diagnostic imaging in managing patients with traumatic neck injury. The survey included questions about managing clinical scenarios; respondents' awareness, knowledge, and use of a specific clinical decision rule—the C-Spine Rule—and any perceived barriers to using clinical practice guidelines in general and the C-Spine Rule in specific. The survey also included questions about the facilitators of and barriers to using the C-Spine Rule. These data were used to guide development of a tool kit to facilitate use of the rule. Results: Of 889 physiotherapists, 467 (52.5%) completed the survey. Given a scenario in which imaging was indicated according to the C-Spine Rule, 95.2% of the respondents correctly recommended imaging. However, in a scenario in which imaging was not indicated, 42.7% incorrectly recommended it. The barriers to using the guidelines included their perceived rigidity, role limitation, and reliance on clinical judgment. The results indicated a need for, and guided development of, resources to facilitate the use of the C-Spine Rule by British Columbia physiotherapists. Conclusions: We identified a gap in the knowledge of British Columbia physiotherapists in identifying which patients were most likely to require imaging after sustaining a traumatic neck injury. We developed a tool kit to address these barriers. British Columbia physiotherapists have accessed this resource extensively. Evaluating its impact on clinical practice, although desirable, was not feasible.
Efficacy and Safety of Para Cervical Block in Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) - in Low Resource Setting
Authors: Jesmin Nafisa
Published: October 2017

Objective (s): To determine the safety and effectiveness of para-cervical block for cervical dilatation and uterine evacuation by MVA.Materials and methods: This descriptive (cross-sectional) study was conducted in a low resource set-up at Homna, Upzilla Health Complex Comilla between January 2016 and June 2016. Forty five patients of 1st trimester incomplete abortion of 12 weeks gestation were the target population for manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) for this study. All patients received para cervical block before MVA procedure. Three minutes after application of block, suction and evacuation of uterus was done. Perioperative oral analgesic (Ibuprofen) and anxiolytic (diazepam) were used 30 minutes before procedure in all patients. Before the procedure, all the women were asked to evaluate the level of pain on a visual analog scale ranged from 0-10. Thirty minutes after the procedure, the patient was asked to describe the pain that she had been feeling during MVA by using the same visual analog scale. Visual analog scale was described by: no pain (0 points), slight pain (1-3 points), moderate pain (4-6 points) and severe pain (7-10 points). Patients were followed up for 7 days and were evaluated for complications before leaving the facility and on the 7th day after procedure. A routine USG of lower abdomen was done on 7th post-evacuation day in all patients, which revealed completeness of the procedure. Informed consent was taken from all the patients.Results: All were first trimester incomplete abortion cases. MVA was performed with para cervical block. Para cervical block reduced pain sensation on cervical dilatation. According to VAS 30 (66.67%) patients had mild pain, 3(6.67%) patients had moderate pain and 12(26.67%) patients had no pain during the procedure. Six (13.33%) patients had mild pain and others had no pain after the procedure. There was no severe pain before or after the procedure. Thirty (75.56%) patients discharged before 4 hours and 11 (24.44%) patients discharged after 4 hours of the procedure. No patients had any complications like pervaginal bleeding, infection or retention of product. The cost was minimum and patients satisfaction was high.Conclusion: Paracevical block is effective in reducing pain sensation during MVA with a reasonable cost of the procedure.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(2) : 70-74
Exotic Lifshitz transitions in topological materials
Authors: Volovik G E
Published: October 2017

Topological Lifshitz transitions involve many types of topological structures in momentum and frequency–momentum spaces, such as Fermi surfaces, Dirac lines, Dirac and Weyl points, etc., each of which has its own stability-supporting topological invariant (N
1, N
2, N
3, , etc.). The topology of the shape of Fermi surfaces and Dirac lines and the interconnection of objects of different dimensionalities produce a variety of Lifshitz transition classes. Lifshitz transitions have important implications for many areas of physics. To give examples, transition-related singularities can increase the superconducting transition temperature; Lifshitz transitions are the possible origin of the small masses of elementary particles in our Universe, and a black hole horizon serves as the surface of the Lifshitz transition between vacua with type-I and type-II Weyl points.
Synthesis and Thermoelectric Properties of TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 Composites
Authors: Ning Jiai , Wu Di , Zhao Degang
Published: October 2017

Thermoelectric (TE) materials are a kind of energy material which can directly convert waste heat into electricity based on TE effects. Ternary Cu2SnSe3 material with diamond-like structure has become one of the potential TE materials due to its low thermal conductivity and adjustable electrical conductivity. In this study, the Cu2SnSe3 powder was prepared by vacuum melting-quenching-annealing-grinding process. The nano-TiO2 particles were introduced into the Cu2SnSe3 matrix by ball milling. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) was employed to fabricate the TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 composites. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to study the phase and microstructure of TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 composites. Electrical resistivity, Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity measurement were applied to analyze the thermoelectric properties. For the 1.4%TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 composite, the electrical conductivity was improved whereas the Seebeck coefficient was lower than that of pure Cu2SnSe3. For other TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 samples, the Seebeck coefficient was improved while the electrical conductivity was reduced. The thermal conductivity of TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 composites was lower than that of Cu2SnSe3 matrix, which is attributed to the lower carrier conductivity. A maximum ZT of 0.30 at 700 K for the 1.0%TiO2/Cu2SnSe3 composite was obtained, which was 17% higher than that of the pure Cu2SnSe3 at 700 K.
THz/Infrared Double Resonance Two-Photon Spectroscopy of HD+ for Determination of Fundamental Constants
Authors: Constantin Florin
Published: October 2017

A double resonance two-photon spectroscopy scheme is discussed to probe jointly rotational and rovibrational transitions of ensembles of trapped HD+ ions. The two-photon transition rates and lightshifts are calculated with the two-photon tensor operator formalism. The rotational lines may be observed with sub-Doppler linewidth at the hertz level and good signal-to-noise ratio, improving the resolution in HD+ spectroscopy beyond the 10−12 level. The experimental accuracy, estimated at the 10−12 level, is comparable with the accuracy of theoretical calculations of HD+ energy levels. An adjustment of selected rotational and rovibrational HD+ lines may add clues to the proton radius puzzle, may provide an independent determination of the Rydberg constant, and may improve the values of proton-to-electron and deuteron-to-proton mass ratios beyond the 10−11 level.
Post-Translational Modification of Human Histone by Wide Tolerance of Acetylation
Authors: Li Cuiling , Choi Han-Pil , Wang Xiaoyue , Wu Fei , Chen Xinjun , Lü Xin , Jing Ruirui , Ryu Hoon , Wang Xingyuan , Azadzoi Kazem , Yang Jing-Hua
Published: October 2017

Histone acetylation adds an acetyl group on the lysine residue commonly found within the N-terminal tail protruding from the histone core of the nucleosome, and is important for chromosome structure and function in gene transcription and chromatin remodeling. Acetylation may also occur on other residues additional to lysine, but have not been thoroughly investigated at the proteomics level. Here we report a wide tolerance acetylation study mimicking the addition of 42 ± 0.5 Da delta mass modification on undefined amino acid residues of histones by shotgun proteomics using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. A multi-blind spectral alignment algorithm with a wide peptide tolerance revealed frequent occurrence of 42 ± 0.5 Da modifications at lysine (K), serine (S) and threonine (T) residues in human histones from kidney tissues. Precision delta mass analysis identified acetylation (42.011 ± 0.004 Da) and trimethylation (42.047 ± 0.002 Da) modifications within the delta mass range. A specific antibody was produced to validate the acetylated T22 of human histone H3 (H3T22ac) by immune assays. Thus, we demonstrated that the wide tolerance acetylation approach identified histone acetylation as well as modification variants commonly associated with acetylation at undefined residues additional to lysine.
Air Pollution and Human Health in Kolkata, India: A Case Study
Authors: Haque Md. , Singh R.
Published: October 2017

Urban air quality in most megacities has been found to be critical and Kolkata Metropolitan City is no exception to this. An analysis of ambient air quality in Kolkata was done by applying the Exceedance Factor (EF) method, where the presence of listed pollutants’ (RPM, SPM, NO2, and SO2) annual average concentration are classified into four different categories; namely critical, high, moderate, and low pollution. Out of a total of 17 ambient air quality monitoring stations operating in Kolkata, five fall under the critical category, and the remaining 12 locations fall under the high category of NO2 concentration, while for RPM, four record critical, and 13 come under the high pollution category. The causes towards the high concentration of pollutants in the form of NO2 and RPM have been identified in earlier studies as vehicular emission (51.4%), followed by industrial sources (24.5%) and dust particles (21.1%). Later, a health assessment was undertaken with a structured questionnaire at some nearby dispensaries which fall under areas with different ambient air pollution levels. Three dispensaries have been surveyed with 100 participants. It shows that respondents with respiratory diseases (85.1%) have outnumbered waterborne diseases (14.9%) and include acute respiratory infections (ARI) (60%), chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) (7.8%), upper track respiratory infection (UTRI) (1.2%), Influenza (12.7%), and acid fast bacillus (AFB) (3.4%). Although the pollution level has been recorded as critical, only 39.3% of the respondents have felt that outdoor (air) pollution has affected their health.
Energy Consumption and Energy-Related CO2 Emissions from China’s Petrochemical Industry Based on an Environmental Input-Output Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Meng Lu , Sager Jalel
Published: October 2017

The fast-growing petrochemical industry is one of the largest energy consumers and emitters in China, exerting a strong impact on the national economic, energy and environmental systems. We provide a holistic picture of energy consumption and energy-related CO2 emissions from China’s petrochemical industry in 2012 through an environmental input-output life-cycle assessment (EIO-LCA). We combine two perspectives: (1) direct energy consumption and emissions, and (2) the indirect energy and emissions embodied and reallocated from other sectors in the supply chain to satisfy final demand in the petrochemical industry. Results indicate that the total of its direct and indirect energy consumption and CO2 emissions accounts for approximately 32% and 18% of China’s industrial total, respectively, exerting high “influence” and “induction” with regards to the rest of the economic sectors. Most of the petrochemical industry’s embodied energy and CO2 emissions comes from the “Production and Supply of Electric and Heat Power”. We also identified five other sectors key to China’s energy conservation and CO2 mitigation efforts due to their high influence and induction effects: “Smelting and Pressing of Ferrous Metals”, “Manufacture of Non-metallic Mineral Products”, “Smelting and Pressing of Non-ferrous Metals”, “Transport, Storage and Post”, and “Mining and Washing of Coal”. A systematic view of direct and indirect energy, environmental relationships, and the conveying effects among sectors is crucial for policymaking in China to achieve its energy and mitigation goals.
Analysis and Design of a Wireless Power Transfer System with Dual Active Bridges
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang Tianfeng , Yang Xijun , Jin Nan , Tang Houjun
Published: October 2017

Nowadays, work on Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) systems with dual active bridges is attracting great attention due to their low conduction losses, power regulation, load transformation and reactance compensation. However, in these studies limitations such as overall analysis, design and realization techniques of the system were not considered properly. To address the aforementioned issues, this paper presents a detailed analysis, design and realization of a Series-Series (SS) WPT system with dual active bridges, which will improve the overall performance. Three independent Phase Angles (PAs) have been analyzed and designed in this study, one PA on the primary side and the other two PAs on the secondary side. This Multiple Degrees of Phase Control (MDPC) method can achieve additional reactance compensation, load transformation and output regulation simultaneously. To realize the proposed method in practice, key implementation techniques have been investigated in detail, including additional reactance estimation, mutual inductance estimation, phase detection and synchronization. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed system is verified through simulation and experimental results.
The Accuracy of 3D Optical Reconstruction and Additive Manufacturing Processes in Reproducing Detailed Subject-Specific Anatomy
Authors: Ferraiuoli Paolo , Taylor Jonathan , Martin Emily , Fenner John , Narracott Andrew
Published: October 2017

3D reconstruction and 3D printing of subject-specific anatomy is a promising technology for supporting clinicians in the visualisation of disease progression and planning for surgical intervention. In this context, the 3D model is typically obtained from segmentation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) or echocardiography images. Although these modalities allow imaging of the tissues in vivo, assessment of quality of the reconstruction is limited by the lack of a reference geometry as the subject-specific anatomy is unknown prior to image acquisition. In this work, an optical method based on 3D digital image correlation (3D-DIC) techniques is used to reconstruct the shape of the surface of an ex vivo porcine heart. This technique requires two digital charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras to provide full-field shape measurements and to generate a standard tessellation language (STL) file of the sample surface. The aim of this work was to quantify the error of 3D-DIC shape measurements using the additive manufacturing process. The limitations of 3D printed object resolution, the discrepancy in reconstruction of the surface of cardiac soft tissue and a 3D printed model of the same surface were evaluated. The results obtained demonstrated the ability of the 3D-DIC technique to reconstruct localised and detailed features on the cardiac surface with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Lattice Structures and Functionally Graded Materials Applications in Additive Manufacturing of Orthopedic Implants: A Review
Authors: Mahmoud Dalia , Elbestawi Mohamed
Published: October 2017

A major advantage of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies is the ability to print customized products, which makes these technologies well suited for the orthopedic implants industry. Another advantage is the design freedom provided by AM technologies to enhance the performance of orthopedic implants. This paper presents a state-of-the-art overview of the use of AM technologies to produce orthopedic implants from lattice structures and functionally graded materials. It discusses how both techniques can improve the implants’ performance significantly, from a mechanical and biological point of view. The characterization of lattice structures and the most recent finite element analysis models are explored. Additionally, recent case studies that use functionally graded materials in biomedical implants are surveyed. Finally, this paper reviews the challenges faced by these two applications and suggests future research directions required to improve their use in orthopedic implants.
Prioritising Supported Decision-Making: Running on Empty or a Basis for Glacial-To-Steady Progress?
Authors: Carney Terry
Published: October 2017

Honouring the requirement of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to introduce supported decision-making (SD) has largely been a case of much talk and little real action. As a socio-economic right, actualising support is resource-intensive as well as being fairly uncharted territory in terms of what works, to what degree and for how long benefits last. This paper, drawing lightly on mainly Australian examples, considers unexplored (and sometimes unorthodox) approaches such as the ‘needs-based’ principle for setting social welfare priorities as possible ways of revitalising SD through progressive realisation, whether through civil society programs or under the law. It argues that pure repeal of proxy decision-making on its own is not viable in realpolitik terms so progressive realisation of ‘repeal with adequate support’ must instead be devised for SD implementation to progress.
Experimental Analysis and Mathematical Modeling on Mg-Li Alloy Sheets with Three Crystal Structures during Cold Rolling and Heat Treatment
Authors: Tang Yan , Le Qichi , Wang Tong , Chen Xingrui
Published: October 2017

The microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and mathematical relationship of an α, α + β, and β phase Mg-Li alloy during the cold rolling and annealing process were investigated. The results showed that the increased Li element gradually transformed the Mg matrix structure from hcp to bcc. Simultaneously, the alloy plasticity was improved remarkably during cold rolling. In the annealing process, a sort of abnormal grain growth was found in Mg-11Li-3Al-2Zn-0.2Y, but was not detected in Mg-5Li-3Al-2Zn-0.2Y and Mg-8Li-3Al-2Zn-0.2Y. Moreover, the mechanical properties of alloy were evidently improved through a kind of solid solution in the β matrix. To accurately quantify this strengthening effect, the method of mathematical modeling was used to determine the relationship between strength and multiple factors.
Electrospun Zein/Gelatin Scaffold-Enhanced Cell Attachment and Growth of Human Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
Authors: Yang Fanqiao , Miao Yingling , Wang Yan , Zhang Li-Ming , Lin Xuefeng
Published: October 2017

Periodontitis is a widespread dental disease affecting 10 to 15% of worldwide adult population, yet the current treatments are far from satisfactory. The human periodontal ligament stem cell is a promising potential seed cell population type in cell-based therapy and tissue regeneration, which require appropriate scaffold to provide a mimic extracellular matrix. Zein, a native protein derived from corn, has an excellent biodegradability, and therefore becomes a hotspot on research and application in the field of biomaterials. However, the high hydrophobicity of zein is unfavorable for cell adhesion and thus greatly limits its use. In this study, we fabricate co-electrospun zein/gelatin fiber scaffolds in order to take full advantages of the two natural materials and electrospun fiber structure. Zein and gelatin in four groups of different mass ratios (100:00, 100:20, 100:34, 100:50), and dissolved the mixtures in 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol, then produced membranes by electrospinning. The results showed that the scaffolds were smooth and homogeneous, as shown in scanning electron micrographs. The diameter of hybrid fibers was increased from 69 ± 22 nm to 950 ± 356 nm, with the proportion of gelatin increase. The cell affinity of zein/gelatin nanofibers was evaluated by using human periodontal ligament stem cells. The data showed that hydrophilicity and cytocompatibility of zein nanofibers were improved by blended gelatin. Taken together, our results indicated that the zein/gelatin co-electrospun fibers had sufficient mechanical properties, satisfied cytocompatibility, and can be utilized as biological scaffolds in the field of tissue regeneration.
PARP Inhibition by Flavonoids Induced Selective Cell Killing to BRCA2-Deficient Cells
Authors: Su Cathy , Haskins Alexis , Omata Chisato , Aizawa Yasushi , Kato Takamitsu
Published: October 2017

High consumption of dietary flavonoids might contribute to a reduction of cancer risks. Quercetin and its glycosides have PARP inhibitory effects and can induce selective cytotoxicity in BRCA2-deficient cells by synthetic lethality. We hypothesized that common flavonoids in diet naringenin, hesperetin and their glycosides have a similar structure to quercetin, which might have comparable PARP inhibitory effects, and can induce selective cytotoxicity in BRCA2-deficient cells. We utilized Chinese hamster V79 wild type, V-C8 BRCA2-deficient and its gene-complemented cells. In vitro analysis revealed that both naringenin and hesperetin present a PARP inhibitory effect. This inhibitory effect is less specific than for quercetin. Hesperetin was more cytotoxic to V79 cells than quercetin and naringenin based on colony formation assay. Quercetin and naringenin killed V-C8 cells with lower concentrations, and presented selective cytotoxicity to BRCA2-deficient cells. However, the cytotoxicity of hesperetin was similar among all three cell lines. Glycosyl flavonoids, isoquercetin and rutin as well as naringin showed selective cytotoxicity to BRCA2-deficient cells; hesperidin did not. These results suggest that flavonoids with the PARP inhibitory effect can cause synthetic lethality to BRCA2-deficient cells when other pathways are not the primary cause of death.
Disposition, Metabolism and Histone Deacetylase and Acetyltransferase Inhibition Activity of Tetrahydrocurcumin and Other Curcuminoids
Authors: Novaes Júlia , Lillico Ryan , Sayre Casey , Nagabushanam Kalyanam , Majeed Muhammed , Chen Yufei , Ho Emmanuel , Oliveira Ana , Martinez Stephanie , Alrushaid Samaa , Davies Neal , Lakowski Ted
Published: October 2017

Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), curcumin and calebin-A are curcuminoids found in turmeric (Curcuma longa). Curcuminoids have been established to have a variety of pharmacological activities and are used as natural health supplements. The purpose of this study was to identify the metabolism, excretion, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties of these curcuminoids and to determine disposition of THC in rats after oral administration. We developed a UHPLC–MS/MS assay for THC in rat serum and urine. THC shows multiple redistribution phases with corresponding increases in urinary excretion rate. In-vitro antioxidant activity, histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity, histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity and anti-inflammatory inhibitory activity were examined using commercial assay kits. Anticancer activity was determined in Sup-T1 lymphoma cells. Our results indicate THC was poorly absorbed after oral administration and primarily excreted via non-renal routes. All curcuminoids exhibited multiple pharmacological effects in vitro, including potent antioxidant activity as well as inhibition of CYP2C9, CYP3A4 and lipoxygenase activity without affecting the release of TNF-α. Unlike curcumin and calebin-A, THC did not inhibit HDAC1 and PCAF and displayed a weaker growth inhibition activity against Sup-T1 cells. We show evidence for the first time that curcumin and calebin-A inhibit HAT and PCAF, possibly through a Michael-addition mechanism.
AAL Platform with a “De Facto” Standard Communication Interface (TICO): Training in Home Control in Special Education
Authors: Guillomía San Bartolomé Miguel , Falcó Boudet Jorge , Artigas Maestre José , Sánchez Agustín Ana
Published: October 2017

Framed within a long-term cooperation between university and special education teachers, training in alternative communication skills and home control was realized using the “TICO” interface, a communication panel editor extensively used in special education schools. From a technological view we follow AAL technology trends by integrating a successful interface in a heterogeneous services AAL platform, focusing on a functional view. Educationally, a very flexible interface in line with communication training allows dynamic adjustment of complexity, enhanced by an accessible mindset and virtual elements significance already in use, offers specific interaction feedback, adapts to the evolving needs and capacities and improves the personal autonomy and self-confidence of children at school and home. TICO-home-control was installed during the last school year in the library of a special education school to study adaptations and training strategies to enhance the autonomy opportunities of its pupils. The methodology involved a case study and structured and semi-structured observations. Five children, considered unable to use commercial home control systems were trained obtaining good results in enabling them to use an open home control system. Moreover this AAL platform has proved efficient in training children in previous cognitive steps like virtual representation and cause-effect interaction.
Implementation of High Time Delay Accuracy of Ultrasonic Phased Array Based on Interpolation CIC Filter
Authors: Liu Peilu , Li Xinghua , Li Haopeng , Su Zhikun , Zhang Hongxu
Published: October 2017

In order to improve the accuracy of ultrasonic phased array focusing time delay, analyzing the original interpolation Cascade-Integrator-Comb (CIC) filter, an 8× interpolation CIC filter parallel algorithm was proposed, so that interpolation and multichannel decomposition can simultaneously process. Moreover, we summarized the general formula of arbitrary multiple interpolation CIC filter parallel algorithm and established an ultrasonic phased array focusing time delay system based on 8× interpolation CIC filter parallel algorithm. Improving the algorithmic structure, 12.5% of addition and 29.2% of multiplication was reduced, meanwhile the speed of computation is still very fast. Considering the existing problems of the CIC filter, we compensated the CIC filter; the compensated CIC filter’s pass band is flatter, the transition band becomes steep, and the stop band attenuation increases. Finally, we verified the feasibility of this algorithm on Field Programming Gate Array (FPGA). In the case of system clock is 125 MHz, after 8× interpolation filtering and decomposition, time delay accuracy of the defect echo becomes 1 ns. Simulation and experimental results both show that the algorithm we proposed has strong feasibility. Because of the fast calculation, small computational amount and high resolution, this algorithm is especially suitable for applications with high time delay accuracy and fast detection.
Voice Behavior, Supervisor Attribution and Employee Performance Appraisal
Authors: Su Xiaoyan , Liu Yating , Hanson-Rasmussen Nancy
Published: October 2017

Employees contribute to the sustainability of organizations in many ways, yet the specific impact of employee voice on employee performance appraisal, as an element of organization sustainability, is not clear. Based on the attribution theory, we present a model to investigate the relationship between employee voice and employee performance appraisal. Using the PLS (Partial Least Squares) method, we test our model’s hypotheses with 273 dyads of supervisor-employee questionnaires administered on a branch of a state-owned enterprise in China. The results show that promotive voice is positively attributed to prosocial motives and constructive motives, while prohibitive voice is not significantly attributed to prosocial motives and constructive motives. The attribution of prosocial motives and constructive motives has a significant and positive effect on employees’ performance appraisal. Moreover, the attribution of prosocial motives and constructive motives fully mediates the relationship between promotive voice and performance appraisal, but has no mediating effects on the relationship between prohibitive voice and performance appraisal.
The Aspergillus flavus Homeobox Gene, hbx1, Is Required for Development and Aflatoxin Production
Authors: Cary Jeffrey , Harris-Coward Pamela , Scharfenstein Leslie , Mack Brian , Chang Perng-Kuang , Wei Qijian , Lebar Matthew , Carter-Wientjes Carol , Majumdar Rajtilak , Mitra Chandrani , Banerjee Sourav , Chanda Anindya
Published: October 2017

Homeobox proteins, a class of well conserved transcription factors, regulate the expression of targeted genes, especially those involved in development. In filamentous fungi, homeobox genes are required for normal conidiogenesis and fruiting body formation. In the present study, we identified eight homeobox (hbx) genes in the aflatoxin-producing ascomycete, Aspergillus flavus, and determined their respective role in growth, conidiation and sclerotial production. Disruption of seven of the eight genes had little to no effect on fungal growth and development. However, disruption of the homeobox gene AFLA_069100, designated as hbx1, in two morphologically different A. flavus strains, CA14 and AF70, resulted in complete loss of production of conidia and sclerotia as well as aflatoxins B1 and B2, cyclopiazonic acid and aflatrem. Microscopic examination showed that the Δhbx1 mutants did not produce conidiophores. The inability of Δhbx1 mutants to produce conidia was related to downregulation of brlA (bristle) and abaA (abacus), regulatory genes for conidiophore development. These mutants also had significant downregulation of the aflatoxin pathway biosynthetic genes aflC, aflD, aflM and the cluster-specific regulatory gene, aflR. Our results demonstrate that hbx1 not only plays a significant role in controlling A. flavus development but is also critical for the production of secondary metabolites, such as aflatoxins.
Response of Intestinal Bacterial Flora to the Long-term Feeding of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in Mice
Authors: Yang Xiai , Liu Liangliang , Chen Jing , Xiao Aiping
Published: October 2017

In order to investigate the influence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on intestinal bacterial flora, 24 Kunming mice (KM mice) were randomly placed into four groups, which were labeled as control, low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups. They were fed intragastrically with 0.4 mL of 0 mg/L, 2.5 mg/L, 4 mg/L, or 10 mg/L of AFB1 solutions, twice a day for 2 months. The hypervariable region V3 + V4 on 16S rDNA of intestinal bacterial flora was sequenced by the use of a high-flux sequencing system on a Miseq Illumina platform; then, the obtained sequences were analyzed. The results showed that, when compared with the control group, both genera and phyla of intestinal bacteria in the three treatment groups decreased. About one third of the total genera and one half of the total phyla remained in the high-dose group. The dominant flora were Lactobacillus and Bacteroides in all groups. There were significant differences in the relative abundance of intestinal bacterial flora among groups. Most bacteria decreased as a whole from the control to the high-dose groups, but several beneficial and pathogenic bacterial species increased significantly with increasing dose of AFB1. Thus, the conclusion was that intragastric feeding with 2.5~10 mg/mL AFB1 for 2 months could decrease the majority of intestinal bacterial flora and induce the proliferation of some intestinal bacteria flora.
The Evolutionary History and Spatiotemporal Dynamics of the NC Lineage of Citrus Tristeza Virus
Authors: Benítez-Galeano María , Castells Matías , Colina Rodney
Published: October 2017

Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) is a major pathogen affecting citrus trees worldwide. However, few studies have focused on CTV’s evolutionary history and geographic behavior. CTV is locally dispersed by an aphid vector and long distance dispersion due to transportation of contaminated material. With the aim to delve deeper into the CTV-NC (New Clade) genotype evolution, we estimated an evolution rate of 1.19 × 10−3 subs/site/year and the most common recent ancestor in 1977. Furthermore, the place of origin of the genotype was in the United States, and a great expansion of the population was observed in Uruguay. This expansion phase could be a consequence of the increment in the number of naïve citrus trees in Uruguayan orchards encompassing citrus industry growth in the past years.
Expression Profiles of Ligands for Activating Natural Killer Cell Receptors on HIV Infected and Uninfected CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Tremblay-McLean Alexandra , Bruneau Julie , Lebouché Bertrand , Lisovsky Irene , Song Rujun , Bernard Nicole
Published: October 2017

Natural Killer (NK) cell responses to HIV-infected CD4 T cells (iCD4) depend on the integration of signals received through inhibitory (iNKR) and activating NK receptors (aNKR). iCD4 activate NK cells to inhibit HIV replication. HIV infection-dependent changes in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands for iNKR on iCD4 are well documented. By contrast, less is known regarding the HIV infection related changes in ligands for aNKR on iCD4. We examined the aNKR ligand profiles HIV p24+ HIV iCD4s that maintained cell surface CD4 (iCD4+), did not maintain CD4 (iCD4−) and uninfected CD4 (unCD4) T cells for expression of unique long (UL)-16 binding proteins-1 (ULBP-1), ULBP-2/5/6, ULBP-3, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class 1-related (MIC)-A, MIC-B, CD48, CD80, CD86, CD112, CD155, Intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, ICAM-2, HLA-E, HLA-F, HLA-A2, HLA-C, and the ligands to NKp30, NKp44, NKp46, and killer immunoglobulin-like receptor 3DS1 (KIR3DS1) by flow cytometry on CD4 T cells from 17 HIV-1 seronegative donors activated and infected with HIV. iCD4+ cells had higher expression of aNKR ligands than did unCD4. However, the expression of aNKR ligands on iCD4 where CD4 was downregulated (iCD4−) was similar to (ULBP-1, ULBP-2/5/6, ULBP-3, MIC-A, CD48, CD80, CD86 and CD155) or significantly lower than (MIC-B, CD112 and ICAM-2) what was observed on unCD4. Thus, HIV infection can be associated with increased expression of aNKR ligands or either baseline or lower than baseline levels of aNKR ligands, concomitantly with the HIV-mediated downregulation of cell surface CD4 on infected cells.
Study on Mercury Distribution and Speciation in Urban Road Runoff in Nanjing City, China
Authors: Singh Rajendra , Wu Jiaguo , Kumar Alagarasan , Fu Dafang
Published: October 2017

The current study was aimed to investigate the mercury pollution in urban road runoff. A total of 34 rainfall events were monitored on 5 independent road catchments from 2015 to 2016 in Nanjing city, China. Events mean concentrations of mercury and the impact factors of mercury pollution in urban road runoff were also carried out in the current study. Results revealed that the concentration of various mercury species was very high. Total mercury, dissolved mercury and particulate mercury were found to be in the range of 0.173–8.254 μg/L, 0.069–6.823 μg/L, and 0.086–2.485 μg/L, respectively. The order of total mercury concentration among the five catchments was as follows: Longpan road > Xinjiekou > Jiulonghu > Zhujiang road > Maqun area. Results revealed the existence of different dominant species of mercury in different urban areas. Particularly, mercury in urban road runoff mainly existed in particulate form in Maqun area, and the concentrations of inactive mercury (0.250–2.821 μg/L) were far more than that of volatile mercury (0.023–0.215 μg/L) and active mercury (0.026–0.359 μg/L). The order of impact factors of rainfall characteristics on Hg pollution in runoff was dry periods > runoff time > duration of rainfall > storm intensity > rainfall. Analysis based on the first flush effect showed that the first flush phenomenon of mercury was not significant.
Addressing the Data Linking Challenges
Authors: Plese Borna , Pristas Ivan , Ivankovic Damir , Valentic Maja
Published: October 2017

Background: PARENT JA (cross-border Patient Registries iNiTiative Joint Action), a joint EU and Member States project, has conducted a research among EU patient registries aimed at gathering information on the registries’ interoperability readiness. Leaning on the information and data collected through the previous PARENT JA research, this study aims to provide more detailed view into the registry holders’ practical challenges with data linking. Since the studies which dealt with patient data exchange have often neglected the registry holders’ performance of data exchange, we wanted to put a spotlight on various EU registry holders’ practices and operations, aiming to detect their needs and concerns in the process of running an interoperable registry. The focus of this study was identifying the main practices and challenges in patient registries interoperability improvement.

Methods: The basis for this analysis were the data collected in the series of structured interviews. The size of the interview sample was 13 patient registries, each from a different EU country. The structured interview consisted of nine questions and was conducted in two parts: oral and written. The answers were analysed using open coding.

Results: Results are interpreted in the context of the six main themes that emerged through a comprehensive analysis. (1) Examples of data exchange: The most common reported data exchange practices were seen only as a way to achieve the most immediate needs and interests of the individual registries. (2) Awareness and use of international standards: International data and clinical standards were not widely used by the interviewed registries. (3) Use of data models and formats: In the area of data models and formats there is no universally used practice. (4) Data request protocols and procedures: Procedures and protocols varied, mostly depending on the national legal systems in which the patient registries operated. (5) Data security and integrity: Security of personal data was a universal concern for all registry holders that were interviewed; identifiable individual data was shared only in one case. (6) Opportunities and challenges of registry interoperability: most registry holders responded that their registries were well prepared for interoperability practices and that data exchange has never been their primary operative concern.

Conclusions: Most of the difficulties regarding data linking were not necessarily associated with technical issues, which registry holders listed outright. Our analysis showed that the lack of interoperability came as a result of organizational or legal constraints that made the registries unable to process and conduct data linking quickly and effectively with other sources.