bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between genetic variation at PPP1R3B and levels of liver glycogen and triglyceride
Authors: Stender Stefan , Smagris Eriks , Lauridsen Bo K. , Kofoed Klaus F. , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Tybjærg‐Hansen Anne , Pennacchio Len A. , Dickel Diane E. , Cohen Jonathan C. , Hobbs Helen H.
Published: December 2017

Genetic variation at rs4240624 on chromosome 8 is associated with an attenuated signal on hepatic computerized tomography, which has been attributed to changes in hepatic fat. The closest coding gene to rs4240624, PPP1R3B, encodes a protein that promotes hepatic glycogen synthesis. Here, we performed studies to determine whether the x‐ray attenuation associated with rs4240624 is due to differences in hepatic glycogen or hepatic triglyceride content (HTGC). A sequence variant in complete linkage disequilibrium with rs4240624, rs4841132, was genotyped in the Dallas Heart Study (DHS), the Dallas Liver Study, and the Copenhagen Cohort (n = 112,428) of whom 1,539 had nonviral liver disease. The minor A‐allele of rs4841132 was associated with increased hepatic x‐ray attenuation (n = 1,572; P = 4 × 10–5), but not with HTGC (n = 2,674; P = 0.58). Rs4841132‐A was associated with modest, but significant, elevations in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the Copenhagen Cohort (P = 3 × 10–4) and the DHS (P = 0.004), and with odds ratios for liver disease of 1.13 (95% CI, 0.97‐1.31) and 1.23 (1.01‐1.51), respectively. Mice lacking protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 3B (PPP1R3B) were deficient in hepatic glycogen, whereas HTGC was unchanged. Hepatic overexpression of PPP1R3B caused accumulation of hepatic glycogen and elevated plasma levels of ALT, but did not change HTGC. Conclusion: These observations are consistent with the notion that the minor allele of rs4841132 promotes a mild form of hepatic glycogenosis that is associated with hepatic injury. (Hepatology 2018;67:2182‐2195).
Wnt/β‐catenin signaling controls intrahepatic biliary network formation in zebrafish by regulating notch activity
Authors: So Juhoon , Khaliq Mehwish , Evason Kimberley , Ninov Nikolay , Martin Benjamin L. , Stainier Didier Y.R. , Shin Donghun
Published: December 2017

Malformations of the intrahepatic biliary structure cause cholestasis, a liver pathology that corresponds to poor bile flow, which leads to inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Although the specification of biliary epithelial cells (BECs) that line the bile ducts is fairly well understood, the molecular mechanisms underlying intrahepatic biliary morphogenesis remain largely unknown. Wnt/β‐catenin signaling plays multiple roles in liver biology; however, its role in intrahepatic biliary morphogenesis remains unclear. Using pharmacological and genetic tools that allow one to manipulate Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, we show that in zebrafish both suppression and overactivation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling impaired intrahepatic biliary morphogenesis. Hepatocytes, but not BECs, exhibited Wnt/β‐catenin activity; and the global suppression of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling reduced Notch activity in BECs. Hepatocyte‐specific suppression of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling also reduced Notch activity in BECs, indicating a cell nonautonomous role for Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in regulating hepatic Notch activity. Reducing Notch activity to the same level as that observed in Wnt‐suppressed livers also impaired biliary morphogenesis. Intriguingly, expression of the Notch ligand genes jag1b and jag2b in hepatocytes was reduced in Wnt‐suppressed livers and enhanced in Wnt‐overactivated livers, revealing their regulation by Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. Importantly, restoring Notch activity rescued the biliary defects observed in Wnt‐suppressed livers. Conclusion: Wnt/β‐catenin signaling cell nonautonomously controls Notch activity in BECs by regulating the expression of Notch ligand genes in hepatocytes, thereby regulating biliary morphogenesis. (Hepatology 2018;67:2352‐2366).
Liver tissue engineering: From implantable tissue to whole organ engineering
Authors: Mazza Giuseppe , Al‐Akkad Walid , Rombouts Krista , Pinzani Massimo
Published: December 2017

The term “liver tissue engineering” summarizes one of the ultimate goals of modern biotechnology: the possibility of reproducing in total or in part the functions of the liver in order to treat acute or chronic liver disorders and, ultimately, create a fully functional organ to be transplanted or used as an extracorporeal device. All the technical approaches in the area of liver tissue engineering are based on allocating adult hepatocytes or stem cell‐derived hepatocyte‐like cells within a three‐dimensional structure able to ensure their survival and to maintain their functional phenotype. The hosting structure can be a construct in which hepatocytes are embedded in alginate and/or gelatin or are seeded in a pre‐arranged scaffold made with different types of biomaterials. According to a more advanced methodology termed three‐dimensional bioprinting, hepatocytes are mixed with a bio‐ink and the mixture is printed in different forms, such as tissue‐like layers or spheroids. In the last decade, efforts to engineer a cell microenvironment recapitulating the dynamic native extracellular matrix have become increasingly successful, leading to the hope of satisfying the clinical demand for tissue (or organ) repair and replacement within a reasonable timeframe. Indeed, the preclinical work performed in recent years has shown promising results, and the advancement in the biotechnology of bioreactors, ex vivo perfusion machines, and cell expansion systems associated with a better understanding of liver development and the extracellular matrix microenvironment will facilitate and expedite the translation to technical applications. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:131–141)
A comparison of methods for low streamflow estimation from spot measurements
Authors: Stagnitta Timothy J. , Kroll Charles N. , Zhang Zhenxing
Published: December 2017

Low streamflow statistic estimators at ungauged river sites generally have large errors and uncertainties. This can be due to many reasons, including lack of data, complex hydrologic processes, and the inadequate or improper characterization of watershed hydrogeology. One potential solution is to take a small number of streamflow measurements at an ungauged site to either estimate hydrogeologic indices or transfer information from a nearby site using concurrent streamflow measurements. An analysis of four low streamflow estimation techniques, regional regression, regional plus hydrogeologic indices, baseflow correlation, and scaling, was performed within the Apalachicola–Chattahoochee–Flint watershed, a U.S. Geological Survey WaterSMART region in the south‐eastern United States. The latter three methods employ a nominal number of spot measurements at the ungauged site to improve low streamflow estimation. Results indicate that baseflow correlation and scaling methods, which transfer information from a donor site, can produce improved low streamflow estimators when spot measurements are available. Estimation of hydrogeologic indices from spot measurements improves regional regression models, with the baseflow recession constant having more explanatory power than the aquifer time constant, but these models are generally outperformed by baseflow correlation and scaling.
The role telecentres play in providing e‐government services in rural areas
Authors: Furuholt Bjørn , Sæbø Øystein
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we explore the role played by telecentres for providing e‐government services in rural areas. We do so by reporting from a longitudinal multiple case from Tanzania, one of the least urbanised African countries with only 23% of the population living in urban areas. Telecentres are proposed to operate as multipurpose community information and communication technology access centres offering e‐government services (as well as other services), providing information, transactions, and entitlements. The supply and use of e‐government services is in our cases found to remain almost unchanged over the last 5–10 years, and there is still a long way to go to fully use the advantages and strengths of e‐governments, due to infrastructure (lack of computers and lack of, or slow and unstable, connections), management (lack of marketing and lack of relevant information and services), and human factors (lack of awareness and knowledge among the citizens). Based on our findings, we argue that telecentres still have a role to play, in combination with personal mobile phones, where simple tasks may be performed by mobile phones, with more complex tasks may be done via Internet from telecentres. This combination will still be the best alternative into the future.
An empirical investigation of factors influencing integrated e‐Government implementation in Nigeria: A case of housing and urban development agency
Authors: Olumoye Mosud Y. , Govender Irene
Published: December 2017

Many electronic government (e‐Government) initiatives in Sub‐Saharan Africa, of which Nigeria is a part, have proven to be largely unsuccessful. However, the need for effective e‐Government initiatives still remains obligatory. Lagos State in Nigeria is no different to other states where e‐Government is necessary. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors that influence the successful implementation of integrated e‐Government in a specific sector, in particular the housing and urban development sector (HUDA) in Nigeria. To accomplish this, a quantitative research approach was adopted based on a conceptual framework, which is grounded in the technology‐organisation‐environment framework and drivers‐barriers model. Questionnaires were administered to the officials of the 5 public sector organisations involved in issuing building permits to the citizens to elicit their views. The analysis revealed that the factors that influence integrated e‐Government implementation in Lagos, Nigeria, relate to technological, organisational, and environmental factors, including benefits and barriers identified. The regression analysis showed that these constructs account for a significant 23.1% f variance on the acceptance of e‐Government integration in HUDA. The study highlights implications for practice and research, as well as future research directions.
Evaluation of a P,N‐ligated iridium(I) catalyst in hydrogen isotope exchange reactions of aryl and heteroaryl compounds
Authors: Valero Mégane , Burhop Annina , Jess Kristof , Weck Remo , Tamm Matthias , Atzrodt Jens , Derdau Volker
Published: December 2017

We have developed a novel and efficient iridium‐catalyzed hydrogen isotope exchange reaction method with secondary and tertiary sulfonamides at ambient temperatures. Furthermore N‐oxides and phosphonamides have been successfully applied in hydrogen isotope exchange reactions with moderate to excellent deuterium introduction.
Effect of connective tissue growth factor delivered via porous sutures on the proliferative stage of intrasynovial tendon repair
Authors: Linderman Stephen W. , Shen Hua , Yoneda Susumu , Jayaram Rohith , Tanes Michael L. , Sakiyama‐Elbert Shelly E. , Xia Younan , Thomopoulos Stavros , Gelberman Richard H.
Published: December 2017

Recent growth factor, cell, and scaffold‐based experimental interventions for intrasynovial flexor tendon repair have demonstrated therapeutic potential in rodent models. However, these approaches have not achieved consistent functional improvements in large animal trials due to deleterious inflammatory reactions to delivery materials and insufficient induction of targeted biological healing responses. In this study, we achieved porous suture‐based sustained delivery of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) into flexor tendons in a clinically relevant canine model. Repairs with CTGF‐laden sutures were mechanically competent and did not show any evidence of adhesions or other negative inflammatory reactions based on histology, gene expression, or proteomics analyses at 14 days following repair. CTGF‐laden sutures induced local cellular infiltration and a significant biological response immediately adjacent to the suture, including histological signs of angiogenesis and collagen deposition. There were no evident widespread biological effects throughout the tendon substance. There were significant differences in gene expression of the macrophage marker CD163 and anti‐apoptotic factor BCL2L1; however, these differences were not corroborated by proteomics analysis. In summary, this study provided encouraging evidence of sustained delivery of biologically active CTGF from porous sutures without signs of a negative inflammatory reaction. With the development of a safe and effective method for generating a positive local biological response, future studies can explore additional methods for enhancing intrasynovial tendon repair. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2052–2063, 2018.
Recent advances in linear and non‐linear Raman spectroscopy. Part XI
Authors: Nafie Laurence A.
Published: December 2017

This review, published annually, provides an overview of advances in the field of Raman spectroscopy as found in papers published in the preceding calendar year in the Journal of Raman Spectroscopy (JRS), as well as in trends over the past decade across journals that have published papers important to the field of Raman spectroscopy. This information is obtained from statistical data on article counts obtained from Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science Core Collection by year and by subfield of Raman spectroscopy. Additional information is gleaned from presentations at the IX International Conference on Advanced Vibrational Spectroscopy (ICAVS‐9) in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, in June 2017 and those featuring Raman scattering at SCIX 2017 organized by the Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Societies (FACSS) in Reno, Nevada, USA, in October 2017. Coverage is also provided for topics from the European Conference on Non‐linear Optical Spectroscopy (ECONOS 2017) held in April 2017 in Jena, Germany, and the Ninth Congress on the Application of Raman in Art and Archaeology (RAA 2017) in October 2017 in Evora, Portugal. Finally, papers published in JRS in 2016 are highlighted and arranged by topics at the frontier of Raman spectroscopy. Based on this survey information, it is clear that Raman spectroscopy maintains a rapidly expanding influence across a wide range of novel disciplines and applications that provide sensitive photonic information of matter at the molecular level.
Macromolecular Coating Enables Tunable Selectivity in a Porous PDMS Matrix
Authors: Winkeljann Benjamin , Käsdorf Benjamin T. , Boekhoven Job , Lieleg Oliver
Published: December 2017

Whether for laboratory use or clinical practice, many fields in Life Sciences require selective filtering. However, most existing filter systems lack the ability to easily tune their filtration behavior. Two key elements for efficient filtering are a high surface‐to‐volume ratio and the presence of suitable chemical groups which establish selectivity. In this study, an artificial PDMS‐based capillary system with highly tunable selectivity properties is presented. The high surface‐to‐volume ratio of this filter system is generated by first embedding sugar fibers into a synthetic polymer matrix and then dissolving these fibers from the cured polymer. To functionalize this filter, the inner surface of the capillaries is coated with purified or synthetic macromolecules. Depending on the type of macromolecule used for filter functionalization, selective sieving is observed based on steric hindrance, electrostatic binding, electrostatic repulsion, or specific binding interactions. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that enzymes can be immobilized in the capillary system which allows for performing multiple cycles of enzymatic reactions with the same batch of enzymes and without the need to separate the enzymes from their reaction products. In addition to lab‐scale filtration and enzyme immobilization applications demonstrated here, the functionalized porous PDMS matrix may also be used to test binding interactions between different molecules.
Characterization and Application of Surfactant Foams Produced from Ethanol‐Sodium Lauryl Sulfate‐Silica Nanoparticle Mixture for Soil Remediation
Authors: Chattopadhyay Pradipta , Karthick R. Arun
Published: December 2017

Soils contaminated with diesel oil spilling from industrial areas, pipelines constitute a major environmental problem. This subsequently leads to the contamination of groundwater as well. Hence recently there is an increasing trend of usage of better techniques and agents that can perform diesel oil contaminated soil remediation with greater efficiency. The aim of this study is to report the potential, efficiency of using silica nanoparticle stabilized anionic surfactant foams for diesel contaminated soil remediation and also the different characteristics of the foam produced. Also comparison in terms of soil remediation efficiency using surfactant dispersions only were performed. The foams were produced from dispersions comprising of ethanol, anionic surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and silica nanoparticles, both hydrophobic and hydrophilic. The foamability and stability of the different foams were determined using the Dynamic Foam Analyzer DFA 100 (Kruss GmbH, Germany). The surfactant foams generated were then applied to the contaminated soil using a fabricated column. The results showed the gradual stabilization of the SLS foams by the use of the silica nanoparticles. The maximum diesel oil removal efficiency obtained by applying foam stabilized with 0.3 wt% hydrophobic silica nanoparticle, 10 vol% ethanol, 0.1 vol% SLS was 94.5%. The 0.3 wt% hydrophobic silica nanoparticle, 10 vol% ethanol, 0.1 vol% SLS surfactant solution showed only 61.5% maximum oil removal efficiency.
Study of Activation Energy of Crystallization and Growth Morphology of Ge25−xSe75Sbx(x = 12, 15, 18) Chalcogenide Glasses
Authors: Tanwar Naveen , Saraswat Vibhav K.
Published: December 2017

In the present paper crystallization kinetics of Ge25‐xSe75Sbx(x = 12, 15, 18) chalcogenide glasses has been investigated using thermal analysis (TA) technique. Ge25‐xSe75Sbx (x = 12, 15, 18) chalcogenide glasses have been prepared by rapid quenching of melt technique. For structure characterization XRD technique has been used. Out of various TA techniques Differential Scanning Calorimetery (DSC) has been used for present study. DSC scans have been carried at different heating rates i.e. 5, 10, 15 and 20 K/min. For evaluation of activation energy of crystallization various theoretical models Kissinger, Ozawa, Augis‐Bennet and Matusita‐Sakka have been used. Activation energy of crystallization increases with increase of Sb content in Ge25‐xSe75Sbx(x = 12, 15, 18) glassy series. The value of Avrami index indicates bulk crystallization with one or two dimensional growth.
Tailoring the Particle Size Distribution in Suspension Polymerization of Poly(MMA‐co‐EGDMA): Role of Stabilizer and Agitation Rate
Authors: Sharma Chirag R. , Khan Huma , Thakur Rajendra S. , Sharma Saroj
Published: December 2017

In suspension polymerization, the particle size distribution plays important role since it determines the application and process ability of final product. However, the particle size distribution (PSD) can be controlled by varying operating parameters and this can improve the quality of final product. Herein, the present work focuses on role of stabilizer concentration and agitation speed on controlling PSD in suspension polymerization of crosslinked porous poly(methylmethacrylate‐co‐ethyleneglycoldimethacrylate) p(MMA‐co‐EGDMA).By controlling these two parameters particle size distribution results in in the range of 500–841 μm which is desirable for various industrial applications. The percent yield of particles falling in the range of 500–841 μm was found 73 ± 1.0% at PVA concentration 2%w/vand at agitation rate of 220 rpm. The Sauter mean diameter has also been evaluated. As PVA concentration and agitation rate increased, mean drop size decreased and PSD became narrower which led to reducing the Sauter mean diameter. The experimental results reveal that by controlling only two parameters the desirable PSD could be obtained.
Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetic Colloids
Authors: Savitha S. , Bhattacharya Sarbari
Published: December 2017

Magnetic fluids which constitute a suspension of magnetic nanoparticles in a carrier liquid are termed ferrofluids. Ferrofluids are smart fluids exhibiting both magnetic and fluid like characteristics. In the present study, we report on ferrofluidswhich are suspensions of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles in carrier fluids of varying viscosity. The magnetite nanoparticles have been synthesized by a chemical co‐precipitation method.X‐Raydiffraction of the as prepared sample revealsa single phase of magnetite.SEM characterisation reveals regular morphology and a narrow size distribution for the synthesized nanoparticles. These are dispersed in pure water and mixtures of water and glycerol using suitable surfactants and ultrasonicated. Our studies reveal that the stability of the ferrofluids have a strong dependence on the viscosity of the carrier fluid as well as the pH, with high viscosity and low pH yielding more stable ferrofluids. While low concentration of the magnetic component renders it impossible to see signatures of its presence in Raman spectroscopy, SQUID magnetometryreveals the presence of the magnetic component suggesting a distribution in size of the nanoparticles with a broad blocking temperature range. Further, a magnetic anomaly is seen at the freezing point of the carrier fluid in the ZFC‐FC measurements for the ferrofluid made with 50% v/v aqueous glycerol solution.
Electronic and Optical Properties of ZnAl2Se4 and Its Use in Solar Cell
Authors: Sahariya Jagrati , Kumar Pancham , Soni Amit , Bhamu K. C.
Published: December 2017

The present paper deals with the electronic and optical properties of ZnAl2Se4 chalcopyrite compound via full potential linearized augmented plane wave method as embodied in Wien2k code of Vienna group. All the calculations are done using the most accurate modified Becke and Johnson (mBJ) potential. We report energy bands, total and partial density of states, absorption spectra, real and imaginary components of dielectric function, reflectivity and refractivity spectra of ZnAl2Se4 compound. Energy gap of ZnAl2Se4 is found to be 3.30 eV which is in accordance with the reported experimental data. High intensity of absorption spectra in visible range (3–5 eV) for ZnAl2Se4 shows its utility for optoelectronic applications such as solar cell.
Preparation and Characterization of HAp Coated Chitosan‐Alginate PEC Porous Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Patil Trupti , Saha Sahely , Biswas Amit
Published: December 2017

Recently, various scaffolds for bone tissue engineering have been developed and analyzed using polymers and bioactive ceramics. The development of an interconnected bioceramic‐biopolymer scaffold combines the advantage of both the components to meet mechanical and physiological requirements of the host tissue. In the present study, development of 3D porous hybrid scaffold using chitosan‐alginate polyelectrolyte complex (CAPEC) by freeze drying method, has been reported. The CaCl2 cross‐linked CAPEC scaffold was further coated with synthesized HAp (Hydroxyapatite) by dip coating technique. The HAp was synthesized by wet chemical precipitation method. The CAPEC and HAp coated‐CAPEC (CAPEC/HAp) scaffolds were assessed for their porosity, pore size, morphology, mechanical strength, swelling behavior, in‐vitro biodegradation. The pore size and morphology of developed scaffolds were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The pore size ranged from 30 to 280µm for CAPEC scaffolds and no apparent change in pore size was found in case of CAPEC/HAp. Both the scaffolds possessed desired pore size with interconnected pore network. Whereas, the porosity was decreased with the increase in HAp coating, but it is still high enough for bone tissue engineering application. The mechanical strength of CAPEC scaffold increased with the coating of HAp, compressive strength was increased from 0.469 MPa to 0.61 MPa. The CAPEC/HAp scaffolds also exhibited favorable swelling behavior and biodegradation. Further, the developed scaffolds also supported in vitro attachment and proliferation of MG63 osteosarcoma cells. Overall, the study has demonstrated that the developed CAPEC/HAp scaffolds have potential application in non‐load bearing, cancellous bone tissue engineering applications.
Effective Doping of Er3+ in ZnO Nanoparticles to Control Its Luminescent Properties
Authors: Jangir Lokesh Kumar , Bansal Purva , Kumari Yogita , Swami KC , Kumar Manoj , Singh Ghanshyam , Awasthi Kamlendra
Published: December 2017

In present manuscript, effective doping of Er3+ in ZnO nanoparticles via wet chemical method is demonstrated. Structural and optical characterization were carried out by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), UV‐Vis spectroscopy and Photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). From XRD results, it has been found that Er atoms take the substitutional sites in ZnO without any distortion in the host lattice (ZnO). The average crystallite size was found to be in the range 20–34 nm from XRD, which was also confirmed by SEM. There is a blue shift in the absorption peak with increasing concentration of Er in ZnO. PL of Er‐doped ZnO shows an enhancement in visible emission. PL intensity of Er‐doped ZnO first increases with doping concentration up to 1.5 wt.% and then decreases which are attributed to concentration quenching. These results show that an effective doping of Er in ZnO is useful to control the visible emission for optoelectronic applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of Graphene Oxide (GO) and Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) for Gas Sensing Application
Authors: Sharma Neeru , Sharma Vikas , Jain Yachana , Kumari Mitlesh , Gupta Ragini , Sharma S. K. , Sachdev K.
Published: December 2017

In the present investigation, GO was prepared by exfoliation of graphite using modified Hummer's method and then reduced using hydrazine hydrate (reducing agent) to produce rGO. XRD, FESEM, Raman, FTIR spectrophotometer and TGA were used for characterization of GO and rGO. XRD images reveal crystalline structure for both GO and rGO. The d‐spacing is observed to be reduced for rGO as compared to that for GO because of removal of oxygen containing functional groups. Raman excitation peaks were obtained for two laser wavelengths 532 and 785 nm. Ratio of intensities of D and G bands (ID/IG) increase for rGO due to increase in order by reduction, implying restoration of the p‐conjugation. The bands are narrower for rGO.TGA thermograms show a higher overall loss of weight for GO in the temperature range 0–1000 °C under N2 flow. Intensity of FTIR peaks of oxide, hydroxyl and alkoxy groups decreases significantly on reduction. FESEM image shows more corrugated surface of rGO as compared to GO. It is expected that this investigation would be useful to develop GO/rGO based gas sensors to detect minute concentration of gases.
Investigation of Rheological Parameters of Lubricants and Contact Fatigue Behavior of Steel in the Presence of Cu Nano‐Particles
Authors: Thapliyal Prashant , Kumar Ajay , Thakre Gananath D. , Jain Amar K.
Published: December 2017

Rheological properties of lubricants determine their flow behavior. Rheological parameters like viscosity index (VI), dynamic viscosity, shear stress and strain rate are influenced by dispersing Cu nanoparticles in them. This not only enhances the rheological properties of the lubricants, influences the contact fatigue behavior of steel also due to improved adhesive properties. Synthesis of new materials and additives is a technological marvel of Modern Tribo Chemistry that helps enhance the physicochemical and rheological properties of the lubricants and also enhances the contact fatigue behavior of materials. In order to study the effect of Cu nanoparticles on the rheological properties of lubricants two commercially available blended lubricants were selected as base oils with synthetic engine oils of SAE grades 5W40. They were dispersed with 0.2% of nano‐Cu by weight. Physicochemical properties of oils were determined using standard ASTM and IS procedures. The experimental investigations were performed on four‐ball sliding contact geometry to assess the anti‐friction and anti‐wear behavior. Rheological parameters were evaluated using rheometerPhysica MCR 301 from Anton‐Paar Austria. Contact fatigue tests were also conducted on four ball fatigue tester using standard ASTM procedure. A significant reduction in friction and wear to the order of less than 13% has been observed for the 0.2 wt% of Cu nano‐particles showing enhanced tribological performance of the base oils. Cu nanofluids form boundary films on the metal surfaces which help enhance the tribo performance by reducing friction and wear as confirmed by The SEM and EDX analysis. Also the surface topography of the worn out of used test specimens revealed smooth sliding wear against the severe wear by the base oils. Rheological data reveal that tested Cu nano‐fluids behaved as non‐ Newtonian at low shear rates at all temperatures and at higher shear rates behaved as Newtonian fluids. On plotting the Weibull curves and survival probability curves it was observed that the nano lubricants showed much improved rolling contact fatigue life with an enhancement of L10 life from 16 to 61% and L90 life from 18 to 118%. Characteristic life also showed an improvement upto 117.6%. Moreover survival probability of rolling contacts also showed an improvement in the presence of nano‐Cu particles.
FTIR, Powder X‐RD and DSC Analysis of African Padauk Wood to Elucidate Possible Applications
Authors: Devashankar Srinivasan
Published: December 2017

African padauk wood having inner color light sandal and outer yellowish orange is characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra, Powder X‐ Ray Diffraction (P‐XRD) and thermal analysis. The FTIR analysis confirms the presence of cellulose, lignin and hemicelluloses. Also outer part of the wood is more lignified than inner part. P‐XRD analysis reveals inner part of the padauk wood is less crystalline than outer part. Compression test shows that the outer part of the sample is having compression strength around 3.6 times than that of the inner one. Hence inner part can be used for pulp and paper industries while outer part can be used for construction. From thermal analysis, both the parts of the sample shows different values of glass transition temperature, different steps of mass loss and different values of residues after decomposition. Hence they are physically distinct. From the thermal analysis it is concluded that outer part can be used as carbon sink.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly Vinyl Alcohol Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Lal Mohan , Verma S. R.
Published: December 2017

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized by co‐precipitation method. The crystalline, structural, thermal and magnetic properties of PVA composite magnetite nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, TEM, FTIR, TGA and VSM analytical techniques. The average particle size of prepared pure magnetite and PVA‐magnetite nanocomposite were determined through XRD technique and found to be below 20 and 17 nm respectively which was further confirmed in TEM imaging. The functional compositions and formation of PVA‐magnetite composite were confirmed by FTIR analysis. Thermal properties and extent of PVA in the composite nanoparticles were evaluated using thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA). VSM studies have shown that magnetite and PVA‐magnetite composite nanoparticles exhibit super paramagnetic behavior at room temperature with saturation magnetization value of 60.21 emu/g, 47.22 emu/g respectively.
Effect of ZnO Nanoparticles on Germination of Triticum aestivum Seeds
Authors: Awasthi Anjali , Bansal Sonu , Jangir Lokesh Kumar , Awasthi Garima , Awasthi Kumud Kant , Awasthi Kamlendra
Published: December 2017

With the progression of nanotechnology, the use of nanoparticles in consumer products has increased dramatically. Because of their broad scale use, these nanomaterials can be expected to be present in the environment, raising concerns about their effects on the lives of plants and animals. Zinc oxide (ZnO), a nanomaterial, has specific surface area, high pore volume, low toxicity and long life‐span and thus is being used as promising material for cosmetics, antibacterial, chemical absorbents, polymer additives and catalysts. In this study ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using various techniques like X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM) and Ultra violet (UV) visible spectroscopy. Further, the effect of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) was tested on wheat (Triticum aestivum) grown in hydroponics media. It was observed that ZnO NPs, at 50 mg/L have positive effect on seed germination, number of roots, plant biomass and overall growth of roots, shoots and leaves. These findings could be further applied to the agricultural fields to enhance the crop production.
Hydrogen Sorption Characteristics of ZrCrAl Ternary Alloy as a Function of Milling Time
Authors: Agarwal Shivani , Mangal R. K. , Kumar Manoj , Awasthi Kamlendra , Kumar Sanjay , Jain Ankur
Published: December 2017

Intermetallic compounds which absorb large quantities of hydrogen have received considerable attention recently. The AB2 laves phase intermetallic compound is known to be a potential material for hydrogen storage, owing to its large storage capacity, ease of activation and rapid reaction rate with hydrogen. In this work Al has been chosen as a substitute material for Cr and ZrCrAl ternary alloy is prepared using arc furnace. The mechanical alloying process has been introduced to produce nanocrystalline material. This paper presents comprehensive study on structural aspects of ball milled ZrCrAl alloy. On comparison of the XRD data, the broadening was found in the peak width with the increase of milling time which is clear indication of refinement of crystallite size. This refinement could also be confirmed from the SEM analysis also. PCT measurements were performed for a temperature range 303 K–373 K.
Thermal Properties and Conductivity of Thermally Treated Epoxidized Natural Rubber‐Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Hussin Nurul Syahidah , Harun Fatin , Chan Chin Han
Published: December 2017

Thermal properties and ionic conductivity of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR)‐based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are influenced by their sample preparatory pathways. In literature, there are inconsistencies reported on conductivity values in the range of 10−8–10−9 S cm−1 due to different sample preparatory pathways for same systems at constant salt concentration. In this study, simple thermal treatment was adopted on SPE films for regulating the thermal properties of the materials which in turn to govern the conductivity of the materials. ENR (with 25 and 50 mol% epoxidation) and lithium perchlorate salt (0–20 wt.%) were used. The ENR‐based SPE films were thermally treated with three different annealing times (i.e. t = 0, ½, 24 h) at 80 °C under nitrogen atmosphere. Differential scanning calorimetry and impedance spectroscopy were utilized to analyze the thermal properties and ionic conductivity at room temperature, respectively. The glass transition parameters such as glass transition temperature, change in heat capacity, width of glass transition and change in enthalpy of endothermic overshoot were elucidated. Higher glass transition temperature values are noted for ENR‐based SPEs films with longer annealing time, which may imply higher extent of intermolecular interaction between ENR and salt, thus leading to an increase in ionic conductivity of ∼10−10–10−8 S cm−1 for t = 0 and 24 h, respectively at mass fraction of salt, WS = 0.107. Consequently, it is deemed important to have precise control in the thermal treatment of ENR‐based SPEs during their preparatory stage.
Removal of Toxic Metal Ions From Potable Water by Graphene Oxide Composites
Authors: Gohel Vishal D. , Rajput Abhishek , Gahlot Swati , Kulshrestha Vaibhav
Published: December 2017

This manuscript deals with the preparation of graphen oxide − metal oxide composite for the removal of heavy metal ions from water by adsoprtion. Composite of graphene oxide (GO) with zink oxide and titanium oxide has been prepared and analyzed structurally. Further, these composites has been used for the removal of heavy metals such as lead, chromium, mercury etc. from water. Metal oxide GO composites has been found efficient towards removal of heavy metal ions.
Synthesis and Characterization of Mixed Phase Cu2ZnSnS4 Nanomaterial by Low Cost Method
Authors: Agarwal Garima , Jha Prafulla K.
Published: December 2017

The present study reports the synthesis of colloidal Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) nano materials (average size ∼9 nm) by a simple and low cost hot‐injection method. The zinc and copper rich CZTS also prepared be the same method. The effect of copper and zinc on the structural, compositional, morphological, and optical properties was studied. Measurements shows that all the prepared samples are comprised of both kesterite and wurtzite CZTS nanocrystals. The absorption spectra indicate that the CZTS nanocrystal has an optical band gap of ca. 2.25 eV which goes to decrease to 1.94 eV for CZ‐Cu and 1.34 eV for CZ‐Zn nanocrystals.
Mediterranean Tomato‐Based Sofrito Sauce Improves Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) Signaling in White Adipose Tissue of Obese ZUCKER Rats
Authors: Sandoval Viviana , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez Rosalía , Martínez‐Garza Úrsula , Rosell‐Cardona Cristina , Lamuela‐Raventós Rosa M. , Marrero Pedro F. , Haro Diego , Relat Joana
Published: December 2017

Scope

Obesity is a fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21)‐resistant state. Since FGF21 production and signaling are regulated by some bioactive dietary compounds, we analyze the impact of Mediterranean tomato‐based sofrito sauce on: (i) the FGF21 expression and signaling in visceral white adipose tissue (vWAT), and (ii) the insulin sensitivity of obese Zucker rats (OZR).

Methods and results

OZR are fed with a sofrito‐supplemented diet or control diet. Insulin sensitivity and FGF21 signaling are determined. We observed that sofrito is able to improve the responsiveness to both hormones in obese rats. Sofrito‐supplemented diet increases FGF21 signaling in vWAT by inducing the expression of the FGF receptors (FGFR1 and FGFR4) that promotes the expression of canonical target genes, like Egr‐1, c‐Fos and uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1).

Conclusions

A sofrito‐supplemented diet improves insulin and FGF21 sensitivity in OZR, explaining part of sofrito’s healthy effects on glucose metabolism. In addition, induction of UCP1 and the unchanged body weight despite the hyperphagic behavior of the sofrito‐fed rats suggests that the increase in FGF21 signaling correlates with an increase in energy expenditure (EE). Further studies in humans may help to understand whether sofrito consumption increases the EE in obese individuals.
The Efficacy of Nanoemulsion‐Based Delivery to Improve Vitamin D Absorption: Comparison of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Kadappan Alagu Selvi , Guo Chi , Gumus Cansu E. , Bessey Amy , Wood Richard J. , McClements David J. , Liu Zhenhua
Published: December 2017

Scope

Vitamin D (VD) is a fat‐soluble vitamin that has a wide range of skeletal and non‐skeletal functions. Although it can be synthesized through sun exposure and obtained from fortified foods, VD inadequacy is epidemic worldwide. Therefore innovative strategies are necessary for improving VD status. The present study examined VD absorption via nanoscale delivery systems.

Methods and results

We examine the physical characteristics and in vitro bioaccessibility of cholecalciferol (VD3) in nanoemulsion using a simulated gastrointestinal tract system. To evaluate the in vivo bioavailability, we orally administer three groups of mice with VD3 nanoemulsion, VD3 coarse emulsion, or vehicle nanoemulsion without VD3, and the serum 25(OH)D3 is measured using radioactive immunoassay. The nanoemulsion‐based delivery system increases the in vitro bioaccessibility by 3.94‐folds (p < 0.05), as indicated by the concentration of vitamin D3 in micelles. Our animal study shows that, when compared to the vehicle group, the coarse emulsion numerically increases the serum 25(OH)D3 by 36%, whereas the nanoemulsion statistically significantly increases the serum 25(OH)D3 by 73% (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a nanoemulsion‐based delivery system is a promising approach to improve VD bioavailability, and further studies are warranted to determine its efficacy in humans.
Automatic mining of symptom severity from psychiatric evaluation notes
Authors: Karystianis George , Nevado Alejo J. , Kim Chi‐Hun , Dehghan Azad , Keane John A. , Nenadic Goran
Published: December 2017

Objectives

As electronic mental health records become more widely available, several approaches have been suggested to automatically extract information from free‐text narrative aiming to support epidemiological research and clinical decision‐making. In this paper, we explore extraction of explicit mentions of symptom severity from initial psychiatric evaluation records. We use the data provided by the 2016 CEGS N‐GRID NLP shared task Track 2, which contains 541 records manually annotated for symptom severity according to the Research Domain Criteria.

Methods

We designed and implemented 3 automatic methods: a knowledge‐driven approach relying on local lexicalized rules based on common syntactic patterns in text suggesting positive valence symptoms; a machine learning method using a neural network; and a hybrid approach combining the first 2 methods with a neural network.

Results

The results on an unseen evaluation set of 216 psychiatric evaluation records showed a performance of 80.1% for the rule‐based method, 73.3% for the machine‐learning approach, and 72.0% for the hybrid one.

Conclusions

Although more work is needed to improve the accuracy, the results are encouraging and indicate that automated text mining methods can be used to classify mental health symptom severity from free text psychiatric notes to support epidemiological and clinical research.
Production of functional sperm by subcutaneous auto‐grafting of immature testes in rainbow trout
Authors: Hayashi Makoto , Sakuma Daika , Yoshizaki Goro
Published: December 2017

Sexually mature individuals are indispensable for breeding programs. Salmonids require a long period before reaching sexual maturity, so we aimed to shorten the period required to obtain functional sperm by grafting immature testicular fragments into mature recipients, which we predicted would allow the grafted testicular fragments to skip the long pre‐pubertal period. First, we demonstrated successful subcutaneous auto‐grafting of testicular fragments in rainbow trout. Unilateral testectomy was performed, and the isolated immature testicular fragment was auto‐grafted into the subcutaneous space along the back of recipient fish. The grafted testicular fragments developed synchronously with the recipients’ testis remaining in its body cavity, and both eventually produced functional sperm. Next, immature testicular fragments were auto‐grafted into the subcutaneous space of sexually mature males. We achieved this, without immune rejection, by isolating and cryopreserving testes from immature fish, and rearing these unilaterally testectomized fish until sexual maturity. The cryopreserved testes were then auto‐grafted into the original, now spermiating fish. The grated immature testicular fragments differentiated and produced functional sperm within 5 months after grafting. By combining this grafting method with a technique to avoid immune rejection, we expect to develop a practical method for producing sperm in a shorter period in salmonids.
Adiposity and Reproductive Cycling Status in Zoo African Elephants
Authors: Chusyd Daniella E. , Brown Janine L. , Hambly Catherine , Johnson Maria S. , Morfeld Kari , Patki Amit , Speakman John R. , Allison David B. , Nagy Tim R.
Published: December 2017

Objective

The majority of zoo African elephants exhibit abnormal reproductive cycles, but it is unclear why. Acyclicity has been positively associated with body condition scores. The objective of this study was to measure body composition and examine the relationship between adiposity and cyclicity status, mediated by glucose, insulin, leptin, and inflammation.

Methods

Body composition was assessed by deuterium dilution in 22 African elephants. Each elephant was weighed and given deuterated water orally (0.05 mL/kg), and blood was collected from the ear prior to and five times after deuterium administration. Glucose, insulin, leptin, and proinflammatory biomarker concentrations in serum were determined.

Results

Body fat percentage ranged from 5.24% to 15.97%. Fat adjusted for fat free mass (FFM) and age was not significantly associated with cyclicity status (P = 0.332). Age was the strongest predictor of cyclicity status (P = 0.040). Fat was correlated with weight (ρ = 0.455, P = 0.044) and when adjusted for FFM with circulating glucose (ρ = 0.520, P = 0.022) and showed a trend for association with leptin (unadjusted: ρ = 0.384, P = 0.095; adjusted for FFM: ρ = 0.403, P = 0.087).

Conclusions

Deuterium dilution appears to be an available technique to measure body composition in African elephants. In this sample, fat was not associated with cyclicity status, and age may be more important to cyclicity status.
Health Outcomes and Explant Rates After Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: A Phase 4, Multicenter Study over 5 Years
Authors: Dixon John B. , Eaton Laura L. , Curry Trace , Lee Phong Ching
Published: December 2017

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the real‐world safety and effectiveness of the LAP‐BAND (Apollo Endosurgery Inc., Austin, Texas) adjustable gastric banding system (LBS) for 5 years following implantation.

Methods

This prospective, longitudinal, phase 4, multicenter study involved 652 patients who had implantation of the LBS system. The primary outcome was the percentage of subjects who had LBS explant over 5 years. The secondary outcomes included the rate of reoperations, clinical and biochemical measures, and patient‐reported outcome measures over 5 years.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 79.3% females with a mean age of 44 years and a mean BMI of 45.4 kg/m2. The primary end point was met with an explant rate of 8.74% (95% CI: 6.6%‐10.9%) at 5 years. The rates for completer‐only analysis and imputed missing data analysis were 12.81% (95% CI: 9.7%‐15.9%) and 12.85% (95% CI: 10.2%‐15.5%), respectively. All were significantly lower than the historic rate of 39.4% (P < 0.001). There were 43 patients who required reoperations or revisions excluding explants (6.6%). A mean weight loss of 18.7% was maximally achieved by 2 years, and weight loss was maintained through to 5 years. All patient‐reported outcomes showed improvement following LBS treatment throughout 5 years.

Conclusions

This study validates the long‐term safety and effectiveness of LBS for the treatment of patients with obesity and its related conditions.