bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of vitamin D supplementation in asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis in eastern India
Authors: Sharma Manuprita , Banerjee Anindita , Khemka Vineet Kumar , Malathi Ravela , Sen Sukanta , Ray Bidhan , Raman Santosh
Published: August 2017

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) known to be a common type of chronic rhinitis which affects 10-20% of the general population while asthma is another major health problem and leading cause of morbidity in the worldwide. Vitamin D, a steroid hormone known for its important role in immunological effects has a role in AR and asthma.Aims and Objectives: The aim of our study was to assess the serum vitamin D levels in patients with asthma and seasonal AR pre-treatment or post treatment with oral vitamin D supplementation (cholecalciferol – 1000 IU) and to study the pathogenesis of the disease.Materials and Methods: The study included 66 AR and asthma patients and 46 control subjects.Fasting serum samples of control and AR subjects were analyzed for routine biochemical parameters immediately after collection while aliquots of the samples were also stored at - 200 C for the assay of 25-hydroxyvitamin D by ELISA.Results: Serum vitamin D levels were found to be significantly lower in AR and asthma patients compared with controls (p < 0.0001). On receiving vitamin D supplementation (cholecalciferol – 1000 IU) we found an increase in vitamin D serum levels in AR and asthma patients as compared to controls (p < 0.0001).Conclusion: Supplementation of vitamin D may be beneficial in the prevention of the pathogenesis of AR and asthma.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(3) 2017 26-29
Is it important to analyse serum liver enzymes in patients with established metabolic syndrome? A Pilot study to tie the knot
Authors: Maiti Saumyajit , Kumar Arun
Published: August 2017

Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is one of theemerging health problems which is the major area of concern as it is not only a potential risk factor for some many diseases but it also affecting globally. It is a common multi-factorial disorder of metabolic derangements and prominent etiological factors for the development and progression of atherosclerotic vascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The relation between elevated serum gamma-glutamyltranferase and metabolic syndrome, however, have been not well explored in a developing country like India. Aims and Objectives: The current study was designed to estimate the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) in metabolic syndrome patients with age-sex matched healthy controls. Furthermore the relation of liver function status with the various biochemical parameters of metabolic syndrome was explored.Materials and Methods: In this present only patients of metabolic syndrome were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria of selecting cases. All the biochemical parameters were analysed using standard methods. Data collected were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20.0).  P value (p<0.05) was considered to be significant.Results: Of the 200 cases and controlsselected, the differences in serum GGT (p<0.001) and ALT (p=0.048) were statistically significant. In case of male subjects,study and controls groups were compared only for serum GGT level (p=0.032) and in case of female subjects, studyand controls were compared for serum ALT (p=0.027) and serum GGT level (p<0.001)and the differences were found to be highly significant. When male and female subjects of study group were compared, significant differences were observed in their serum ALT and GGT levels.Conclusion: Patients suspected of metabolic syndrome must also get their liver profile enzymes analysed as liver functionis also affected with metabolic syndrome and it could be an additional risk factor additive of metabolic syndrome. Early detection and management can be preventive and can have a better treatment modalities is managing patients with metabolic syndrome. It not only prevent disease progression but also prevents additional cost burden beard by the patients.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(3) 2017 35-40
Letter of Editor Vol.15(1)
Authors: Bhattarai Sabina
Published: August 2017

No abstract
Patterns and Outcomes of Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions in a Hospital Based Study
Authors: Paudel Upama , Parajuli S , Pokhrel DB
Published: August 2017

Introduction : Drug reactions are one of the common reasons for admission in the Dermatological beds. Data on the culprit drugs and patterns of reaction are very scarce in Nepal.Objective:To determine the patterns of drug reactions admitted in Tribhuwan University (TU) Teaching hospital, the causes of drug reactions, duration of hospital stay, duration of steroid use and the outcome of the treatment.Material and Methods: This was a retrospective study done in TU Teaching Hospital. The admissions and discharge record of admitted patients from 15th April 2008 to 14th April 2012 were analyzed for the variables mentioned above.Results: There were 61 new patients of drug reactions; however only files of 42 patients could be studied.The mean age of the patients was 32.26 ± 15.26 with male to female ratio of 1.8:1. Stevens Johnson’s syndrome (35.7%) was the commonest cause of admission followed by drug induced erythroderma (16.7%) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (11.9%). Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and allopurinol were the most common drugs for the reactions. The median time for the appearance of the lesions was 20.07 days. The median duration of hospital stay was 7 days. Steroids were used for initial treatment for around 4.9 ± 1.7 days. 83.3% of the patients improved while 11.9% succumbed despite optimal management.Conclusion: Severe drug reactions were the common reasons for admissions in our hospital. Anti-epileptics were the  leading cause for the reactions. Steroids were used for initial period and rapidly tapered off in short duration. Overall, the outcomes of the treatment were good.
Acute Centro-facial Pigmentation – A sign of Viral Exanthem ?: Case Reports
Authors: Shilpakar Rachana , Velugotla Keerthi , Sachdev M
Published: August 2017

We report two cases of abrupt onset centro-facial pigmentation associated with acute viral fever and arthralgia. Review of literature yielded reports of similar pigmentation along with other dermatological manifestations like maculopapular rash, vesiculobullous lesions etc. In our cases centrofacial pigmentation confined to nose was the only presenting symptom and required treatment from patient’s perspective.Centro-facial melanosis may be considered as a sign of acute viral fever which could require specific treatment. The aim of our report is to widen the vision of clinicians in considering abrupt onset of centro-facial melanosis as a presenting symptom in an acute sero-negative viral fever with arthralgia.
Hot corrosion of the ceramic composite coating Ni3Al–Al2O3–Al2O3/MgO plasma sprayed on 316L stainless steel
Authors: Shirazi Amir Khodaparast , Kiahosseini Seyed Rahim
Published: August 2017

Ni3Al–Al2O3–Al2O3/MgO three-layered coatings with thicknesses of 50, 100, and 150 μm for Al2O3/MgO and 100 μm for the other layers were deposited on 316L stainless steel using plasma spraying. X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, furnace hot corrosion testing in the presence of a mixture of Na2SO4 and V2O5 corrosive salts and scanning electron microscopy were used to determine the structural, morphological and hot corrosion resistance of samples. Results revealed that the crystalline grains of MgO and Al2O3 coating were very small. Weight loss due to hot corrosion decreased from approximately 4.267 g for 316L stainless steel without coating to 2.058 g. The samples with 150 μm outer coating showed improved resistance with the increase in outer layer thickness. Scanning electron microscopy of the coated surface revealed that the coating's resistance to hot corrosion is related to the thickness and the grain size of Al2O3/MgO coatings.
Tribological properties of B4C–TiB2–TiC–Ni cermet coating produced by HVOF
Authors: Rafiei Mahdi , Shamanian Morteza , Mostaan Hossein , Salehi Mehdi
Published: August 2017

In this study, B4C–TiB2–TiC–Ni coating was sprayed on the surface of 4130 steel by high velocity oxy-fuel torch. The tribological behavior of samples was studied by ball on disk wear testing. Structural evolution of the coating was analyzed by X-ray diffractometry. The microstructure of the coating, wear track and Al2O3 ball was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy. Elemental analysis of the wear track was done by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. It was found that a cermet coating containing B4C, TiB2, TiC and Ni phases with good bonding to the 4130 steel substrate with no sign of any cracking or pores was formed. The wear mechanism of the composite coating was delamination. The friction coefficient of samples was decreased with increasing load because of higher frictional heat and creation of more oxide islands.
Operating Speed Models for Tangent Segments on Urban Roads
Authors: Thiessen Avi , El-Basyouny Karim , Gargoum Suliman
Published: August 2017

Information about operating speeds is essential to design better roads, model traffic emissions, and ensure design consistency while efficient and safe operations on roads are maintained. Therefore, understanding how different factors affect operating speeds and developing operating speed prediction models are critical research issues. Many studies have developed such models on rural roads and highways, but only a few studies have considered development of such models on urban roads and fewer still on tangential segments. This present study attempted to address these limitations by developing operating speed models with data from 249 tangential road segments in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. A generalized linear model was developed with panel data, and the primary aim was to explore the relationships between operating speeds on urban roads and features of the road environment. To study the impact of road elements on different road types, three models were created: one that combined arterial and collector locations, one for arterials only, and one for collector roads only. The results revealed that roads with sidewalks that were farther away from the road and with low object density or tree density were all associated with higher operating speeds. Locations with monolithic walks on both sides of the road had lower operating speeds. Furthermore, operating speeds decreased as access increased, while longer roads had higher operating speeds. One major takeaway was that the elements differed between road classes. The two variables, which stood out in that respect, were medians and bus stops.
Effect of Ultrafast Imaging on Shear Wave Visualization and Characterization: An Experimental and Computational Study in a Pediatric Ventricular Model
Authors: Caenen Annette , Pernot Mathieu , Kinn Ekroll Ingvild , Shcherbakova Darya , Mertens Luc , Swillens Abigail , Segers Patrick
Published: August 2017

Plane wave imaging in Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) captures shear wave propagation in real-time at ultrafast frame rates. To assess the capability of this technique in accurately visualizing the underlying shear wave mechanics, this work presents a multiphysics modeling approach providing access to the true biomechanical wave propagation behind the virtual image. This methodology was applied to a pediatric ventricular model, a setting shown to induce complex shear wave propagation due to geometry. Phantom experiments are conducted in support of the simulations. The model revealed that plane wave imaging altered the visualization of the shear wave pattern in the time (broadened front and negatively biased velocity estimates) and frequency domain (shifted and/or decreased signal frequency content). Furthermore, coherent plane wave compounding (effective frame rate of 2.3 kHz) altered the visual appearance of shear wave dispersion in both the experiment and model. This mainly affected stiffness characterization based on group speed, whereas phase velocity analysis provided a more accurate and robust stiffness estimate independent of the use of the compounding technique. This paper thus presents a versatile and flexible simulation environment to identify potential pitfalls in accurately capturing shear wave propagation in dispersive settings.
Spectral Correction of CPV Modules Equipped with GaInP/GaInAs/Ge Solar Cells and Fresnel Lenses
Authors: Theristis Marios , Fernández Eduardo , Almonacid Florencia , Georghiou George
Published: August 2017

Photovoltaic (PV) devices are spectrally selective, and their performance is influenced by unavoidable spectral variations. In addition, multijunction-based concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) devices show a strong spectral dependence due to the series connection of various junctions with different absorption bands, and also due to the use of concentrator optics. In this work, the accuracy of a new set of analytical equations that quantify the spectral impact caused by the changes in air mass (AM), aerosol optical depth (AOD) and precipitable water (PW) is discussed. Four different CPV devices based on lattice-matched and metamorphic triple-junction solar cells and a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and silicon-on-glass (SoG) Fresnel lenses are considered. A long-term outdoor experimental campaign was carried out at the Centre for Advanced Studies on Energy and Environment (CEAEMA) of the University of Jaén, Spain. Results show a high accuracy in the estimations of the spectral factor (SF), with an average mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) within 0.91% and a mean relative error (MRE) within −0.32%.
Caribbean Air Chemistry and Dispersion Conditions
Authors: Jury Mark
Published: August 2017

The meteorological influences on Caribbean air chemistry are studied using in-situ, satellite and model data. Although African dust plumes join locally generated pollutants, concentrations are relatively low in the eastern Caribbean due to geographic remoteness and steady oceanic trade winds. Urban-industrial emissions from big cities (e.g., Kingston, Santo Domingo, San Juan), agricultural emissions from the south, and volcanic emissions from Montserrat contribute a noticeable burden. Conditions over Puerto Rico in the dry season (December–May) provide a focus for statistical analysis of air chemistry constituents and weather variables that describe dispersion conditions. Monthly and daily air indices are formed by summing the normalized values of fine aerosols and particulates, long- and short-lived trace gases from in-situ, satellite and model sources. The spatial correlation of a daily Puerto Rico air index onto regional dewpoint temperature, air pressure and outgoing longwave radiation fields in December–May 2005–2015 reveals the northward movement of a dry tongue and trough. At the climate timescale, Pacific El Nino conditions favor an increase of spring-time air pollution corresponding to anomalous inflow from Africa and the southern Caribbean coast. Composite weather patterns for a group of high air index values reflect divergent trade winds and a strong jet stream that imparts anticyclonic vorticity, subsidence and low humidity. This new understanding will underpin better air quality forecasts for Puerto Rico and the wider Caribbean.
How Climate Change Will Affect Forest Composition and Forest Operations in Baden-Württemberg—A GIS-Based Case Study Approach
Authors: Berendt Ferréol , Fortin Mathieu , Jaeger Dirk , Schweier Janine
Published: August 2017

In order to accommodate foreseen climate change in European forests, the following are recommended: (i) to increase the number of tree species and the structural diversity; (ii) to replace unsuitable species by native broadleaved tree species, and (iii) to apply close-to-nature silviculture. The state forest department of Baden-Württemberg (BW) currently follows the concept of Forest Development Types (FDTs). However, future climatic conditions will have an impact on these types of forest as well as timber harvesting operations. This Geographic Information System (GIS)-based analysis identified appropriate locations for main FDTs and timber harvesting and extraction methods through the use of species suitability maps, topography, and soil sensitivity data. Based on our findings, the most common FDT in the state forest of BW is expected to be coniferous-beech mixed forests with 29.0% of the total forest area, followed by beech-coniferous (20.5%) and beech-broadleaved (15.4%) mixed forests. Where access for fully mechanized systems is not possible, the main harvesting and extraction methods would be motor manual felling and cable yarding (29.1%). High proportions of large dimensioned trees will require timber extraction using forestry tractors, and these will need to be operated from tractor roads on sensitive soils (23.0%), and from skid trails on insensitive soils (18.4%).
‘Space of Refuge’: Negotiating Space with Refugees Inside the Palestinian Camp
Authors: Maqusi Samar
Published: August 2017

‘Space of Refuge’ is a spatial installation directly addressing issues of inhabitation within Palestinian refugee camps in different host countries. It does so by illustrating the various modes of spatial production and subsequent evolution of Palestinian refugee camps, with particular focus upon unofficial acts of “spatial violation” that have emerged because of the increasingly protracted nature of the refugee situation.
Impact of Orientation on the Vitamin D Weighted Exposure of a Human in an Urban Environment
Authors: Schrempf Michael , Thuns Nadine , Lange Kezia , Seckmeyer Gunther
Published: August 2017

The vitamin D3-weighted UV exposure of a human with vertical posture was calculated for urban locations to investigate the impact of orientation and obstructions on the exposure. Human exposure was calculated by using the 3D geometry of a human and integrating the radiance, i.e., the radiant energy from the direct solar beam and the diffuse sky radiation from different incident and azimuth angles. Obstructions of the sky are derived from hemispherical images, which are recorded by a digital camera with a fisheye lens. Due to the low reflectivity of most surfaces in the UV range, the radiance from obstructed sky regions was neglected. For spring equinox (21 March), the exposure of a human model with winter clothing in an environment where obstructions cover 40% of the sky varies by up to 25%, depending on the orientation of the human model to the sun. The calculation of the accumulated vitamin D3-weighted exposure of a human with winter clothing walking during lunch break shows that human exposure is reduced by the obstruction of buildings and vegetation by 40%.
Human Leukocyte Antigen C*12:02:02 and Killer Immunoglobulin-Like Receptor 2DL5 are Distinctly Associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis in the Taiwanese
Authors: Wang Chin-Man , Wang Sheng-Hung , Jan Wu Yeong-Jian , Lin Jing-Chi , Wu Jianming , Chen Ji-Yih
Published: August 2017

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I ligands and Killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) regulate the cytolytic activity of natural killer (NK) cells and certain T cells. We examined their genetic predisposition to disease susceptibility and clinical phenotypes in Taiwanese ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. KIR genotyping and Human Leucocyte Antigen C (HLA-C) sequencing were performed in 653 Taiwanese AS patients and 952 healthy controls. KIR genotype distributions and HLA-C allele frequencies were compared in patients and controls and among patients with and without HLA-B27 positivity, early age onset and spinal syndesmophytes. HLA-C alleles were functionally characterized using 3D structural modelling with peptide simulation. This study discovered that the HLA-C*12:02:02 allele (43.42% vs. 3.31%; p < 0.00001 odds ratio (OR), 16.88; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 11.27–25.28) confers a strong risk for Taiwanese AS development. The 3D modelling results identified four unique amino acid polymorphisms, Ala73, Trp156, Arg219 and Met304, that may affect the function of the HLA-C*12:02:02 allele. KIR2DL5 (p = 0.0047; pFDR = 0.0423) and the KIR Bx haplotype (p = 0.0000275) were protective against Taiwanese AS, while KIR 2DS4/1D (22 base pair truncated deletion; p = 0.0044; pFDR = 0.1998) appeared to be a risk factor for it. KIR2DL5 combined with the HLA-C1/C2 heterozygous genotype showed a protective effect (AS 5.97% vs. normal 11.66%; p = 0.002; pFDR = 0.0127, OR, 0.48 95% CI: 0.33–0.70); in contrast, KIR 2DS4/1D combined with the HLA-C1C1 homozygous genotype (AS 45.33% vs. normal 35.92%; p = 0.002; pFDR = 0.0127, OR, 1.48 95% CI: 1.21–1.81) represented a risk factor for AS development. Our data suggested that interactions between KIRs and their cognate HLA-C ligands may contribute to the pathogenesis of AS.
Identification and Functional Divergence Analysis of WOX Gene Family in Paper Mulberry
Authors: Tang Feng , Chen Naizhi , Zhao Meiling , Wang Yucheng , He Ruiping , Peng Xianjun , Shen Shihua
Published: August 2017

The WOX (WUSCHEL-related homeobox) is a plant-specific transcription factor involved in plant development and stress response. However, few studies have been reported on the WOX gene in woody plants. In this study, 10 BpWOX genes were isolated from paper mulberry by RACE-PCR and categorized into three clades through phylogenetic analysis, ancient, intermediate and WUS clade. Among them, five members had the transcriptional activity detected by yeast one-hybrid and seven were uniquely localized to the nucleus through green fluorescent protein (GFP) observation. The expression patterns of BpWOX genes in different tissues and under diverse treatments were quantified by the qRT-PCR method. Results showed that BpWUS was expressed in the apical bud, stem and root, BpWOX5 and BpWOX7 functioned only in the root tip, and three BpWOXs regulated leaf development redundantly. BpWOX9 and BpWOX10 were induced by indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) or jasmonic acid (JA), while BpWOX2 was repressed by five phytohormones. Interestingly, most BpWOX genes were responsive to the abiotic stress stimuli of drought, salt, cold, and cadmium (CdCl2). Together, our study revealed that BpWOXs were functionally divergent during paper mulberry development and environmental adaptation, which might be related to their evolutionary relationships. Our work will benefit the systematic understanding of the precise function of WOX in plant development and environmental stress responses.
Modification of Cooperativity and Critical Temperatures on a Hofmann-Like Template Structure by Modular Substituent
Authors: Kosone Takashi , Kawasaki Takeshi , Tomori Itaru , Okabayashi Jun , Kitazawa Takafumi
Published: August 2017

In a series of Hofmann-like spin crossover complexes, two new compounds, {Fe(3-F-4-Methyl-py)2[Au(CN)2]2} (1) and {Fe(3-Methyl-py)2[Au(CN)2]2} (2) (py = pyridine) are described. The series maintains a uniform 2-dimentional (2-D) layer structure of {Fe[Au(CN)2]2}. The layers are combined with another layer by strong aurophilic interactions, which results in a bilayer structure. Both coordination compounds 1 and 2 at 293 K crystallize in the centrosymmetric space groups P21/c. The asymmetric unit contains two pyridine derivative ligands, one type of Fe2+, and two types of crystallographically distinct [Au(CN)2]− units. Compound 1 undergoes a complete two-step spin transition. On the other hand, 2 maintains the characteristic of the high-spin state. The present compounds and other closely related bilayer compounds are compared and discussed in terms of the cooperativity and critical temperature. The bilayer structure is able to be further linked by substituent-substituent contact resulting in 3-dimentional (3-D) network cooperativity.
Enhanced Corrosion Resistance of Carbon Steel in Hydrochloric Acid Solution by Eriobotrya Japonica Thunb. Leaf Extract: Electrochemical Study
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Wang Qihui , Xu Ke , Yin Yanjun , Bao Hebin , Li Xueming , Niu Lidan , Chen Shiqi
Published: August 2017

The biodegradable inhibitors, which could effectively reduce the rate of corrosion of carbon steel, were investigated by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The mixed-type inhibitors extracted from Eriobotrya japonica Thunb. leaf exhibited excellent inhibition performance, and the inhibition efficiency for carbon steel reached 90.0% at 298 K in hydrochloric acid. Moreover, the adsorption mechanism of the inhibitors on a carbon steel surface is described by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Simultaneously, the corrosion morphology of the carbon steel and the inhibitor structure were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), respectively.
Breath-Figure Self-Assembly, a Versatile Method of Manufacturing Membranes and Porous Structures: Physical, Chemical and Technological Aspects
Authors: Bormashenko Edward
Published: August 2017

The review is devoted to the physical, chemical, and technological aspects of the breath-figure self-assembly process. The main stages of the process and impact of the polymer architecture and physical parameters of breath-figure self-assembly on the eventual pattern are covered. The review is focused on the hierarchy of spatial and temporal scales inherent to breath-figure self-assembly. Multi-scale patterns arising from the process are addressed. The characteristic spatial lateral scales of patterns vary from nanometers to dozens of micrometers. The temporal scale of the process spans from microseconds to seconds. The qualitative analysis performed in the paper demonstrates that the process is mainly governed by interfacial phenomena, whereas the impact of inertia and gravity are negligible. Characterization and applications of polymer films manufactured with breath-figure self-assembly are discussed.
Statistical Analysis and Fatigue Life Estimations for Quenched and Tempered Steel at Different Tempering Temperatures
Authors: Li Changyou , Li Shuangfeng , Duan Fei , Wang Yuewu , Zhang Yimin , He David , Li Zhenyuan , Wang Wei
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the statistical properties and fatigue life estimations of 0.44% carbon steel at different tempering temperatures are presented. The specimens were austenized at 900 °C for 10 min, quenched in water, tempered at different temperatures, and then machined to the design geometry and average surface roughness of Ra = 0.4 μm. The effect of tempering temperature on the fatigue life of 0.44% carbon steel was investigated using 75 fatigue tests, divided into three groups at temperatures 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C. S–N and P–S–N curves were established. Two methods of estimating the mean fatigue life are presented. One is based on dislocation dipole accumulation and Paris’ law; another is based on the kriging model. Six more fatigue tests were carried out to validate the presented methods. Test results showed that the first method is superior to the second in terms of estimating accuracy from the validation datum. However, the second method could estimate the mean fatigue life of quenched and tempered 0.44% carbon steel with an average surface roughness of Ra = 0.4 μm when the tempering temperature was set to a value other than 500 °C, 600 °C, or 700 °C, with no additional fatigue test needed.
Preparing Ferro-Nickel Alloy from Low-Grade Laterite Nickel Ore Based on Metallized Reduction–Magnetic Separation
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Chu Mansheng , Liu Zhenggen , Wang Hongtao , Zhao Wei , Gao Lihua
Published: August 2017

Nickel, a valued metal, mainly exists as nickel oxide in laterite nickel ore. Furthermore, a large part of the laterite nickel ore is low-grade saprolitic ore. In this paper, a research on preparing ferro-nickel alloy from low-grade saprolitic laterite nickel ore using metallized reduction-magnetic separation was studied. In the research, the carbothermic reductions of iron oxide and nickel oxide were analyzed in terms of thermodynamics. The influences of reduction temperature, reduction time, carbon ratio, and CaO addition on the recoveries and grades of iron and nickel were experimentally investigated. To analyze and clarify the related mechanism, the microstructure of ferro-nickel alloy was observed by optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM/EDS). Accordingly, the results showed that, increasing reduction temperature can improve the grades and recoveries of nickel and iron; appropriate reduction time, carbon ratio and CaO addition can favor aggregation and growing up of the ferro-nickel particles, improving the grades and recoveries of nickel and iron. The optimal process parameters obtained were a reduction temperature of 1350 °C, reduction time of 2 h, carbon ratio of 1.2, and CaO addition of 10%. In this case, the ferro-nickel alloy with nickel grade 7.90% and iron grade 77.32% was prepared successfully from the low-grade saprolitic ore with nickel content 1.82%. The nickel and iron recoveries were 89.36% and 95.87% respectively, which achieved the highly efficient recovery and utilization of iron and nickel of low-grade laterite nickel ore.
Lactose Binding Induces Opposing Dynamics Changes in Human Galectins Revealed by NMR-Based Hydrogen–Deuterium Exchange
Authors: Chien Chih-Ta , Ho Meng-Ru , Lin Chung-Hung , Hsu Shang-Te
Published: August 2017

Galectins are β-galactoside-binding proteins implicated in a myriad of biological functions. Despite their highly conserved carbohydrate binding motifs with essentially identical structures, their affinities for lactose, a common galectin inhibitor, vary significantly. Here, we aimed to examine the molecular basis of differential lactose affinities amongst galectins using solution-based techniques. Consistent dissociation constants of lactose binding were derived from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence, isothermal titration calorimetry and bio-layer interferometry for human galectin-1 (hGal1), galectin-7 (hGal7), and the N-terminal and C-terminal domains of galectin-8 (hGal8NTD and hGal8CTD, respectively). Furthermore, the dissociation rates of lactose binding were extracted from NMR lineshape analyses. Structural mapping of chemical shift perturbations revealed long-range perturbations upon lactose binding for hGal1 and hGal8NTD. We further demonstrated using the NMR-based hydrogen–deuterium exchange (HDX) that lactose binding increases the exchange rates of residues located on the opposite side of the ligand-binding pocket for hGal1 and hGal8NTD, indicative of allostery. Additionally, lactose binding induces significant stabilisation of hGal8CTD across the entire domain. Our results suggested that lactose binding reduced the internal dynamics of hGal8CTD on a very slow timescale (minutes and slower) at the expense of reduced binding affinity due to the unfavourable loss of conformational entropy.
Insights into the Effect of the G245S Single Point Mutation on the Structure of p53 and the Binding of the Protein to DNA
Authors: Lepre Marco , Omar Sara , Grasso Gianvito , Morbiducci Umberto , Deriu Marco , Tuszynski Jack
Published: August 2017

The transcription factor p53 is a potent tumor suppressor dubbed as the “guardian of the genome” because of its ability to orchestrate protective biological outputs in response to a variety of oncogenic stresses. Mutation and thus inactivation of p53 can be found in 50% of human tumors. The majority are missense mutations located in the DNA binding region. Among them, G245S is known to be a structural hotspot mutation. To understand the behaviors and differences between the wild-type and mutant, both a dimer of the wild type p53 (wt-p53) and its G245S mutant (G245S-mp53), complexed with DNA, were simulated using molecular dynamics for more than 1 μs. wt-p53 and G245S-mp53 apo monomers were simulated for 1 μs as well. Conformational analyses and binding energy evaluations performed underline important differences and therefore provide insights to understand the G245S-mp53 loss of function. Our results indicate that the G245S mutation destabilizes several structural regions in the protein that are crucial for DNA binding when found in its apo form and highlight differences in the mutant-DNA complex structure compared to the wt protein. These findings not only provide means that can be applied to other p53 mutants but also serve as structural basis for further studies aimed at the development of cancer therapies based on restoring the function of p53.
The Efficacy of Bifidobacterium longum BORI and Lactobacillus acidophilus AD031 Probiotic Treatment in Infants with Rotavirus Infection
Authors: Park Myeong , Kwon Bin , Ku Seockmo , Ji Geun
Published: August 2017

A total of 57 infants hospitalized with rotavirus disease were included in this study. The children were randomly divided into the study’s two treatment groups: three days of the oral administration of (i) a probiotics formula containing both Bifidobacterium longum BORI and Lactobacillus acidophilus AD031 (N = 28); or (ii) a placebo (probiotic-free skim milk, N = 29) and the standard therapy for diarrhea. There were no differences in age, sex, or blood characteristics between the two groups. When the 57 cases completed the protocol, the duration of the patients’ diarrhea was significantly shorter in the probiotics group (4.38 ± 1.29, N = 28) than the placebo group (5.61 ± 1.23, N = 29), with a p-value of 0.001. Symptoms such as duration of fever (p = 0.119), frequency of diarrhea (p = 0.119), and frequency of vomiting (p = 0.331) tended to be ameliorated by the probiotic treatment; however, differences were not statistically significant between the two groups. There were no serious, adverse events and no differences in the frequency of adverse events in both groups.
Hydrogel Based Sensors for Biomedical Applications: An Updated Review
Authors: Tavakoli Javad , Tang Youhong
Published: August 2017

Biosensors that detect and convert biological reactions to a measurable signal have gained much attention in recent years. Between 1950 and 2017, more than 150,000 papers have been published addressing the applications of biosensors in different industries, but to the best of our knowledge and through careful screening, critical reviews that describe hydrogel based biosensors for biomedical applications are rare. This review discusses the biomedical application of hydrogel based biosensors, based on a search performed through Web of Science Core, PubMed (NLM), and Science Direct online databases for the years 2000–2017. In this review, we consider bioreceptors to be immobilized on hydrogel based biosensors, their advantages and disadvantages, and immobilization techniques. We identify the hydrogels that are most favored for this type of biosensor, as well as the predominant transduction strategies. We explain biomedical applications of hydrogel based biosensors including cell metabolite and pathogen detection, tissue engineering, wound healing, and cancer monitoring, and strategies for small biomolecules such as glucose, lactate, urea, and cholesterol detection are identified.
Reflectance Intensity Assisted Automatic and Accurate Extrinsic Calibration of 3D LiDAR and Panoramic Camera Using a Printed Chessboard
Authors: Wang Weimin , Sakurada Ken , Kawaguchi Nobuo
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a novel method for fully automatic and convenient extrinsic calibration of a 3D LiDAR and a panoramic camera with a normally printed chessboard. The proposed method is based on the 3D corner estimation of the chessboard from the sparse point cloud generated by one frame scan of the LiDAR. To estimate the corners, we formulate a full-scale model of the chessboard and fit it to the segmented 3D points of the chessboard. The model is fitted by optimizing the cost function under constraints of correlation between the reflectance intensity of laser and the color of the chessboard’s patterns. Powell’s method is introduced for resolving the discontinuity problem in optimization. The corners of the fitted model are considered as the 3D corners of the chessboard. Once the corners of the chessboard in the 3D point cloud are estimated, the extrinsic calibration of the two sensors is converted to a 3D-2D matching problem. The corresponding 3D-2D points are used to calculate the absolute pose of the two sensors with Unified Perspective-n-Point (UPnP). Further, the calculated parameters are regarded as initial values and are refined using the Levenberg-Marquardt method. The performance of the proposed corner detection method from the 3D point cloud is evaluated using simulations. The results of experiments, conducted on a Velodyne HDL-32e LiDAR and a Ladybug3 camera under the proposed re-projection error metric, qualitatively and quantitatively demonstrate the accuracy and stability of the final extrinsic calibration parameters.
Small, Smart, Fast, and Cheap: Microchip-Based Sensors to Estimate Air Pollution Exposures in Rural Households
Authors: Pillarisetti Ajay , Allen Tracy , Ruiz-Mercado Ilse , Edwards Rufus , Chowdhury Zohir , Garland Charity , Hill L. , Johnson Michael , Litton Charles , Lam Nicholas , Pennise David , Smith Kirk
Published: August 2017

Over the last 20 years, the Kirk R. Smith research group at the University of California Berkeley—in collaboration with Electronically Monitored Ecosystems, Berkeley Air Monitoring Group, and other academic institutions—has developed a suite of relatively inexpensive, rugged, battery-operated, microchip-based devices to quantify parameters related to household air pollution. These devices include two generations of particle monitors; data-logging temperature sensors to assess time of use of household energy devices; a time-activity monitoring system using ultrasound; and a CO2-based tracer-decay system to assess ventilation rates. Development of each system involved numerous iterations of custom hardware, software, and data processing and visualization routines along with both lab and field validation. The devices have been used in hundreds of studies globally and have greatly enhanced our understanding of heterogeneous household air pollution (HAP) concentrations and exposures and factors influencing them.
Dual-Band Band-Pass Filter with Fixed Low Band and Fluidically-Tunable High Band
Authors: Park Eiyong , Lim Daecheon , Lim Sungjoon
Published: August 2017

In this work, we present a dual-band band-pass filter with fixed low-band resonant frequency and tunable high-band resonant frequency. The proposed filter consists of two split-ring resonators (SRRs) with a stub and microfluidic channels. The lower resonant frequency is determined by the length of the SRR alone, whereas the higher resonant frequency is determined by the lengths of the SRR and the stub. Using this characteristic, we fix the lower resonant frequency by fixing the SRR length and tune the higher resonant frequency by controlling the stub length by injecting liquid metal in the microfluidic channel. We fabricated the filter on a Duroid substrate. The microfluidic channel was made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and eutectic gallium–indium (EGaIn) was used as the liquid metal. This filter operates in two states—with, and without, the liquid metal. In the state without the liquid metal, the filter has resonant frequencies at 1.85 GHz and 3.06 GHz, with fractional bandwidths of 4.34% and 2.94%, respectively; and in the state with the liquid metal, it has resonant frequencies at 1.86 GHz and 2.98 GHz, with fractional bandwidths of 4.3% and 2.95%, respectively.
Assessment of Nitrogen Inputs into Hunt River by Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems via SWAT Simulation
Authors: Paul Supria , Cashman Michaela , Szura Katelyn , Pradhanang Soni
Published: August 2017

Nonpoint source nitrogen pollution is difficult to effectively model in groundwater systems. This study aims to elucidate anthropogenic nonpoint source pollution discharging into Potowomut Pond and ultimately Narragansett Bay. Hydrologic modeling with Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and SWAT Calibration and Uncertainty Program (SWAT-CUP) was used to simulate streamflow and nitrogen levels in the Hunt River with and without onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS). The objective of this study was to determine how input of OWTS data impacts nitrogen loading into the Hunt River Watershed in Rhode Island, USA. The model was simulated from 2006 to 2014, calibrated from 2007 to 2011 and validated from 2012 to 2014. Observed streamflow data was sourced from a US Geological Survey gauge and nitrogen loading data from University of Rhode Island Watershed Watch (URIWW). From the results, adding OWTS data to the SWAT simulation produced a better calibration and validation fit for total fit (Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) = 0.50 calibration, 0.78 validation) when compared with SWAT simulation without OWTS data (NSE = −1.3 calibration, −6.95) validation.
Aspects of Hexavalent Chromium Pollution of Thebes Plain Aquifer, Boeotia, Greece
Authors: Koilakos Dimitrios
Published: August 2017

The present work focuses on the environmental problem of Thebes Plain—since considerable amounts of Cr (VI) have been reported—and tries to find out the reasons of such a phenomenon and the sources of the pollution. For this issue, a complete chemical analysis of 20 samples from the study area was conducted as well as an isotopic analysis of Cr and Sr isotopes. Hexavalent chromium pollution can be triggered by human pollutant activity or specific geological environments. Stable Cr isotopic analysis gave δ53Cr positive values in several samples which supports the second hypothesis, but the limitations of that theory do not allow safe conclusions in all cases. Nitrates and Sr ratios suggest fertilizer contamination and the presence of SiO2-leaching of silicate rocks.
Block copolymers from ionic liquids for the preparation of thin carbonaceous shells
Authors: Hanif Sadaf , Oschmann Bernd , Spetter Dmitri , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Tremel Wolfgang , Zentel Rudolf
Published: August 2017

This paper describes the controlled radical polymerization of an ionic-liquid monomer by RAFT polymerization. This allows the control over the molecular weight of ionic liquid blocks in the range of 8000 and 22000 and of the block-copolymer synthesis. In this work we focus on block copolymers with an anchor block. They can be used to control the formation of TiO2 nanoparticles, which are functionalized thereafter with a block of ionic-liquid polymer. Pyrolysis of these polymer functionalized inorganic nanoparticles leads to TiO2 nanoparticles coated with a thin carbonaceous shell. Such materials may, e.g., be interesting as battery materials.
A Hot Downflowing Model Atmosphere for Umbral Flashes and the Physical Properties of Their Dark Fibrils
Authors: Henriques V. M. J. , Mathioudakis M. , Socas-Navarro H. , Rodríguez J. de la Cruz
Published: August 2017

We perform non-LTE inversions in a large set of umbral flashes, including the dark fibrils visible within them, and in the quiescent umbra by using the inversion code NICOLE on a set of full Stokes high-resolution Ca ii λ8542 observations of a sunspot at disk center. We find that the dark structures have Stokes profiles that are distinct from those of the quiescent and flashed regions. They are best reproduced by atmospheres that are more similar to the flashed atmosphere in terms of velocities, even if with reduced amplitudes. We also find two sets of solutions that finely fit the flashed profiles: a set that is upflowing, featuring a transition region that is deeper than in the quiescent case and preceded by a slight dip in temperature, and a second solution with a hotter atmosphere in the chromosphere but featuring downflows close to the speed of sound at such heights. Such downflows may be related, or even dependent, on the presence of coronal loops, rooted in the umbra of sunspots, as is the case in the region analyzed. Similar loops have been recently observed to have supersonic downflows in the transition region and are consistent with the earlier “sunspot plumes,” which were invariably found to display strong downflows in sunspots. Finally, we find, on average, a magnetic field reduction in the flashed areas, suggesting that the shock pressure is moving field lines in the upper layers.
Alfvén Wave Turbulence as a Coronal Heating Mechanism: Simultaneously Predicting the Heating Rate and the Wave-induced Emission Line Broadening
Authors: Oran R. , Landi E. , Holst B. van der , Sokolov I. V. , Gombosi T. I.
Published: August 2017

We test the predictions of the Alfvén Wave Solar Model (AWSoM), a global wave-driven magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model of the solar atmosphere, against high-resolution spectra emitted by the quiescent off-disk solar corona. AWSoM incorporates Alfvén wave propagation and dissipation in both closed and open magnetic field lines; turbulent dissipation is the only heating mechanism. We examine whether this mechanism is consistent with observations of coronal EUV emission by combining model results with the CHIANTI atomic database to create synthetic line-of-sight spectra, where spectral line widths depend on thermal and wave-related ion motions. This is the first time wave-induced line broadening is calculated from a global model with a realistic magnetic field. We used high-resolution SUMER observations above the solar west limb between 1.04 and 1.34 R
⊙ at the equator, taken in 1996 November. We obtained an AWSoM steady-state solution for the corresponding period using a synoptic magnetogram. The 3D solution revealed a pseudo-streamer structure transversing the SUMER line of sight, which contributes significantly to the emission; the modeled electron temperature and density in the pseudo-streamer are consistent with those observed. The synthetic line widths and the total line fluxes are consistent with the observations for five different ions. Further, line widths that include the contribution from the wave-induced ion motions improve the correspondence with observed spectra for all ions. We conclude that the turbulent dissipation assumed in the AWSoM model is a viable candidate for explaining coronal heating, as it is consistent with several independent measured quantities.
Clinical Characteristics of Heart Involvement in Chinese Patients with Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Li Jing , Li Hongchao , Sun Fei , Chen Zhe , Yang Yunjiao , Zhao Jiuliang , Li Mengtao , Tian Xinping , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: August 2017

Objective.

To understand the characteristics of heart involvement in Chinese patients with Takayasu arteritis (TA).

Methods.

The medical charts of 411 patients with TA (325 women, 86 men) were retrospectively reviewed. The comparison of clinical manifestations was carried out between the patients with TA with (n = 164) and without (n = 247) heart involvement.

Results.

The median age at disease onset was 23.0 years (18.0–30.0) in 411 patients with TA, and 23.0 years (17.3–30.0) in 164 patients with heart involvement. The disease duration of the heart involvement group (median: 24.0 mos) was significantly longer than those patients without heart involvement (the control group, median: 16.0 mos). Hypertension (57.3% vs 46.6%; p = 0.033), renal dysfunction (17.1% vs 7.7%; p = 0.003), and bruit in the subclavian artery (45.1% vs 34.4%; p = 0.029) were more common in the heart involvement group than patients without. Valvular abnormalities were found in 134 (81.7%) patients in the heart involvement group, myocardial abnormalities in 26 (15.9%), and coronary artery abnormalities in 19 patients (11.6%). The age at onset (yrs) and disease duration (mos) of patients with myocardial, valvular, and coronary arterial abnormalities were 18.8/13.0, 23.8/23.5, and 26.8/57.0, respectively. In the heart involvement group, 22 patients (84.6%) with myocardial abnormalities, 15 (78.9%) with coronary arterial abnormalities, and 89 (66.4%) with valvular abnormalities had Numano type V vessel involvement. The level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein was higher in the heart involvement group (median: 10.0 mg/l), and the difference was significant when compared to the control group (median: 7.0 mg/l; p = 0.017).

Conclusion.

Patients with TA complicated with cardiac abnormalities are not rare, especially in patients with Numano type V vessel involvement. We suggest that echocardiogram screening may be a helpful tool to understand the whole feature of patients with TA.