bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Edge Crack, Texture Evolution, and Mechanical Properties of Mg-1Al-1Sn-Mn Alloy Sheets Prepared Using On-Line Heating Rolling
Authors: Liu Qiang , Song Jiangfeng , Pan Fusheng , She Jia , Zhang Shuo , Peng Peng
Published: October 2018

A series of Mg-1Al-1Sn-Mn magnesium alloy sheets were rolled from 3 mm to 1 mm under temperatures of 150 °C, 200 °C, and 250 °C in four rolling passes using on-line heating rolling. The conventional rolling was also performed for comparison. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technologies were utilized to characterize the edge cracks as well as the microstructure of rolled thin sheets. The result revealed that the number of edge cracks decreased dramatically with the increase of rolling temperature. No visible edge cracks were found on the surface of sheets rolled at 250 °C by on-line heating rolling, while the conventional rolling at the same temperature still resulted in severe edge cracks. The intensity of the basal texture for on-line rolled sheets increased from 4.982 to 9.596 as the rolling temperature increased from 150 °C to 250 °C, which was related to the reorientation of new grains and deformation grains remained after rolling. The direction of the basal pole slightly tilted towards the rolling direction (RD), which may be mainly attributed to the activation of a pyramidal slip, as well as the tension imposed on the samples. Moreover, mechanical properties were improved after rolling on the basis of the strong texture and grain refinement. The highest yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and the maximum elongation of the rolled sheets were 148 MPa, 298 MPa, and 14.6% along the RD, respectively.
Design and Implementation of a Novel Single-Driven Ultrasonic Elliptical Vibration Assisted Cutting Device
Authors: Tan Rongkai , Zhao Xuesen , Zou Xicong , Li Zengqiang , Hu Zhenjiang , Zhang Weipan , Sun Tao
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a novel single-driven ultrasonic elliptical vibration cutting (SDUEVC) device with a succinct structure and a simple assembly is proposed and investigated. A tailored horn with a tilted-slot structure was employed in the designed SDUEVC device. Also, the elliptical trajectory formation mechanism of the designed SDUEVC device was described by using the theory of mechanical vibration. Furthermore, the finite element method (FEM) was used to optimize the tilted-slot structure parameters and there are four parameters selected as the optimization factors. The results indicated that the proposed SDUEVC device can generate larger vertical amplitude than previous SDUEVC devices, which provides an important and positive effect for the cutting performance of the proposed SDUEVC device. According to the optimized results, a prototype SDUEVC device was fabricated and its vibration characteristic was tested. When the excitation signal voltage was 500 Vp-p, the test results indicated that the amplitudes in the axial and vertical directions were 8.7 μm and 6.8 μm, respectively. Furthermore, an elliptical trajectory was generated at the cutting tool tip. Finally, the proposed SDUEVC device was used to fabricate microdimple patterns as the initial application to confirm the feasibility of the proposed SDUEVC device.
Helium and Argon Isotopes in the Fe-Mn Polymetallic Crusts and Nodules from the South China Sea: Constraints on Their Genetic Sources and Origins
Authors: Guan Yao , Ren Yingzhi , Sun Xiaoming , Xiao Zhenglian , Guo Zhengxing
Published: October 2018

In this study, the He and Ar isotope compositions were measured for the Fe-Mn polymetallic crusts and nodules from the South China Sea (SCS), using the high temperature bulk melting method and noble gases isotope mass spectrometry. The He and Ar of the SCS crusts/nodules exist mainly in the Fe-Mn mineral crystal lattice and terrigenous clastic mineral particles. The results show that the 3He concentrations and R/RA values of the SCS crusts are generally higher than those of the SCS nodules, while 4He and 40Ar concentrations of the SCS crusts are lower than those of the SCS nodules. Comparison with the Pacific crusts and nodules, the SCS Fe-Mn crusts/nodules have lower 3He concentrations and 3He/4He ratios (R/RA, 0.19 to 1.08) than those of the Pacific Fe-Mn crusts/nodules, while the 40Ar/36Ar ratios of the SCS samples are significantly higher than those of the Pacific counterparts. The relatively low 3He/4He ratios and high 40Ar concentrations in the SCS samples are likely caused by terrigenous detrital input with high radiogenic 4He and 40Ar contents. The SCS crusts and nodules have shorter growth periods, implying that in situ post-formation radiogenic 3He, 4He and 40Ar produced by decay of U, Th and K have no effect on their isotope compositions. Thus, the SCS crusts/nodules inherited the noble gases characteristics of their sources. Helium and Ar isotope compositions in the SCS Fe-Mn crusts and nodules reflect the product of an equilibrium mixture between air-saturated seawater and radiogenic components during their growth, while the partial 3He excess in some SCS samples may represent a little mantle-derived origin. The different He and Ar isotope compositions of the Fe-Mn crusts and nodules between the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean are due to their different sources and genetic processes. The characteristics of He and Ar isotope compositions in the SCS polymetallic crusts and nodules are similar to the properties of hydrogenetic Fe-Mn oxide/hydroxide precipitates, which reflects mainly the product of an equilibrium mixture between air-saturated seawater and radiogenic components.
Validation of UPLC-MS/MS Method for Determination of Urinary Lactulose/Mannitol
Authors: Gervasoni Jacopo , Primiano Aniello , Graziani Cristina , Scaldaferri Franco , Gasbarrini Antonio , Urbani Andrea , Persichilli Silvia
Published: October 2018

Determination of urinary lactulose/mannitol is one of the most used tests to evaluate intestinal barrier function. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry guarantees high levels of selectivity and reproducibility. In this paper we report an upgrade of the previous published liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method, introducing more reliable internal standards and ultra-performance liquid chromatography with ethylene bridged hybrid amide columns. The ultra-performance liquid chromatography provided an efficient chromatographic separation of the two sugars in 5 min, compared to 15 min using the previous method. The limit of quantification was 10 µg/mL for mannitol and 2.5 µg/mL for lactulose, and the assay was linear up to 1000 µg/mL for mannitol and 1000 µg/mL for lactulose. The within-run precision and accuracy ranged from 0.7 to 2.9% and 97.2 to 101.2%, respectively. The between-run precision and accuracy ranged from 1.9 to 4.7% and 94.8 to 97.5%, respectively. Recovery was higher than 90.2% for both lactulose and mannitol, and the matrix effect for both lactulose and mannitol was lower than 15%. With this new method we have a real improvement in terms of accuracy and reproducibility, ensuring results in shorter time. The changes to the previous protocol make this method excellent for routine purposes.
Assessing Nutritional Traits and Phytochemical Composition of Artisan Jams Produced in Comoros Islands: Using Indigenous Fruits with High Health-Impact as an Example of Biodiversity Integration and Food Security in Rural Development
Authors: Donno Dario , Mellano Maria Gabriella , Hassani Saandia , De Biaggi Marta , Riondato Isidoro , Gamba Giovanni , Giacoma Cristina , Beccaro Gabriele Loris
Published: October 2018

In the Comoros Islands, as in other developing countries, malnutrition and food insecurity affect a very large percentage of the population. Developing fruit-based products in order to make profit, reduce poverty and improve indigenous people diet could be very important for local population of countries as Comoros Islands. The aim of the present work was to study the chemical composition of jams and jellies produced from seven fruit species harvested in Grand Comore Island. The following parameters were studied sugars and organic acids, total phenolics, total anthocyanins and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint of the main phytochemicals. Antioxidant activity was also measured. A multivariate approach (Principal Component Analysis) was performed in order to better characterize the products and to set a potential analytical tool for jam characterisation. Results showed that the analysed products are a good source of polyphenolic constituents, as caffeic and gallic acids, catechin and quercetin and volatile compounds, as limonene and γ-terpinene: these molecules may be considered as suitable markers for these fruit-derived products as characterizing the chromatographic patterns. The characterisation of these products and their nutritional and nutraceutical traits is important as valorisation of local food production for poverty reduction and rural development. Further benefits of this approach include the maintenance of local agro-biodiversity as raw material for fruit-based products and the strengthening of food security practices.
Ag/Pyridine Co-Mediated Oxidative Arylthiocyanation of Activated Alkenes
Authors: Kong De-Long , Du Jian-Xun , Chu Wei-Ming , Ma Chun-Ying , Tao Jia-Yi , Feng Wen-Hua
Published: October 2018

An efficient Ag/pyridine co-mediated oxidative arylthiocyanation of activated alkenes via radical addition/cyclization cascade process was developed. This reaction could be carried out under mild conditions to provide biologically interesting 3-alkylthiocyanato-2-oxindoles in good to excellent yields. Mechanistic studies suggested a unique NCS• radical addition path and clarified the dual roles of catalytic pyridine as base and crucial ligand to accelerate the oxidation of Ag(I) to Ag(II), which is likely oxidant responsible for the formation of NCS• radical. These mechanistic results may impact the design and refinement of other radical based reactions proceeding through catalytic oxidations mediated by Ag(I)-pyridine/persulfate. The chemical versatility of thiocyanate moiety was also highlighted via SCN-tailoring chemistry in post-synthetic transformation for new S-C(sp3/sp2/sp), S-P, and S-S bonds constructions. The protocol provides an easy access to many important bioisosteres in medicinal chemistry and an array of sulfur-containing 2-oxindoles that are difficult to prepare by other approaches.
Application of Molecular Methods in the Identification of Ingredients in Chinese Herbal Medicines
Authors: Han Ke , Wang Miao , Zhang Lei , Wang Chunyu
Published: October 2018

There are several kinds of Chinese herbal medicines originating from diverse sources. However, the rapid taxonomic identification of large quantities of Chinese herbal medicines is difficult using traditional methods, and the process of identification itself is prone to error. Therefore, the traditional methods of Chinese herbal medicine identification must meet higher standards of accuracy. With the rapid development of bioinformatics, methods relying on bioinformatics strategies offer advantages with respect to the speed and accuracy of the identification of Chinese herbal medicine ingredients. This article reviews the applicability and limitations of biochip and DNA barcoding technology in the identification of Chinese herbal medicines. Furthermore, the future development of the two technologies of interest is discussed.
Regioselective Synthesis of New 2,4-(Het)aryl-3H-pyrido[1′,2′:1,5]pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidines Involving Palladium-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Ejjoummany Abdelaziz , Belaroussi Rabia , El Hakmaoui Ahmed , Akssira Mohamed , Guillaumet Gérald , Buron Frédéric , Routier Sylvain
Published: October 2018

The design of some novel di-(het)arylated-3H-pyrido[1′,2′:1,5]pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives is reported. The series was developed from 1-aminopyridinium iodide, which afforded the key intermediate bearing two thiomethyl and amide functions, each of them useful for palladium catalyzed cross coupling reactions by alkyl sulfur release and C-O activation, respectively. The two regioselective and successive cross-coupling reactions were first carried out in C-4 by in situ C-O activation and next in C-2 by a methylsulfur release. Process optimization furnished conditions leading to products in high yields. The scope and limitations of the methodologies were evaluated and the final compounds characterized.
Rapid and Integrated Quality Assessment of Organic-Inorganic Composite Herbs by FTIR Spectroscopy—Global Chemical Fingerprints Identification and Multiple Marker Components Quantification of Indigo Naturalis (Qing Dai)
Authors: Pan Meng , Pei Wenxuan , Yao Yixin , Dong Ling , Chen Jianbo
Published: October 2018

This research aimed to develop an FTIR-based method for rapid and low-cost integrated quality assessment of organic-inorganic composite herbs, which are kinds of herbs composed of both organic and inorganic active ingredients or matrix components. A two-step quality assessment route was designed and verified using the example of Indigo Naturalis (Qing Dai). First, the FTIR spectra were used as global chemical fingerprints to identify the true and fake samples. Next, the contents of the organic and inorganic marker components were estimated by FTIR quantification models to assess the quality of the true samples. Using the above approaches, all the 56 true samples and five fake samples of Indigo Naturalis could be identified correctly by the correlation threshold of the FTIR chemical fingerprints. Furthermore, the FTIR calibration models provided an accurate estimation of the contents of marker components with respect to HPLC and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The coefficients of determination (R2) for the independent validation of indigo, indirubin, and calcium were 0.977, 0.983, and 0.971, respectively. Meanwhile, the mean relative errors (MRE) for the independent validation of indigo, indirubin, and calcium were 2.2%, 2.4%, and 1.8%, respectively. In conclusion, this research shows the potential of FTIR spectroscopy for the rapid and integrated quality assessment of organic-inorganic composite herbs in both chemical fingerprints identification and marker components quantification.
Thermodynamic Model for B-Z Transition of DNA Induced by Z-DNA Binding Proteins
Authors: Lee Ae-Ree , Kim Na-Hyun , Seo Yeo-Jin , Choi Seo-Ree , Lee Joon-Hwa
Published: October 2018

Z-DNA is stabilized by various Z-DNA binding proteins (ZBPs) that play important roles in RNA editing, innate immune response, and viral infection. In this review, the structural and dynamics of various ZBPs complexed with Z-DNA are summarized to better understand the mechanisms by which ZBPs selectively recognize d(CG)-repeat DNA sequences in genomic DNA and efficiently convert them to left-handed Z-DNA to achieve their biological function. The intermolecular interaction of ZBPs with Z-DNA strands is mediated through a single continuous recognition surface which consists of an α3 helix and a β-hairpin. In the ZBP-Z-DNA complexes, three identical, conserved residues (N173, Y177, and W195 in the Zα domain of human ADAR1) play central roles in the interaction with Z-DNA. ZBPs convert a 6-base DNA pair to a Z-form helix via the B-Z transition mechanism in which the ZBP first binds to B-DNA and then shifts the equilibrium from B-DNA to Z-DNA, a conformation that is then selectively stabilized by the additional binding of a second ZBP molecule. During B-Z transition, ZBPs selectively recognize the alternating d(CG)n sequence and convert it to a Z-form helix in long genomic DNA through multiple sequence discrimination steps. In addition, the intermediate complex formed by ZBPs and B-DNA, which is modulated by varying conditions, determines the degree of B-Z transition.
From Hollow to Solid Carbon Spheres: Time-Dependent Facile Synthesis
Authors: Kukułka Wojciech , Wenelska Karolina , Baca Martyna , Chen Xuecheng , Mijowska Ewa
Published: October 2018

Here, we report a facile route for obtaining carbon spheres with fully tunable shell thickness. Using a hard template in chemical vapor deposition (CVD), hollow carbon spheres, solid carbon spheres, and intermediate structures can be obtained with optimized process time. The resulting carbon spheres with particle diameters of ~400 nm, as well as a controllable shell thickness from 0 to 70 nm, had high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area (up to 344.8 m2·g−1) and pore volume (up to 0.248 cm3·g−1). The sphere formation mechanism is also proposed. This simple and reproducible technique can deliver carbon materials for various applications, e.g., energy storage and conversion, adsorption, catalytic, biomedical, and environmental applications.
Laser Alloying Advantages by Dry Coating Metallic Powder Mixtures with SiOx Nanoparticles
Authors: Karg Michael C. H. , Rasch Michael , Schmidt Konstantin , Spitzer Sophia A. E. , Karsten Till F. , Schlaug Daniel , Biaciu Cosmin-Rudolf , Gorunov Andrey I. , Schmidt Michael
Published: October 2018

Up to now, minimizing segregation of free-flowing, microscale metal powder mixtures driven by different mass density is an open challenge. In this work, effects of particle size variation on homogeneity of Al-Cu mixtures, with a density ratio of 3.3, are examined. Dry coating Al particles with 0.3 wt% fumed silica SiOx nanoparticles significantly decreases interparticle attraction. This enlarges the range of free-flowing Al particle sizes to < 20 µm. Powder mixture homogeneity is examined optically in vibrated bulk powder and thinly spread layers. From various powder mixtures, solid samples are built layer by layer with the Additive Manufacturing (3D printing) technology Laser Beam Melting in metal powder bed (LBM). Chemical homogeneity of solids is evaluated via energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, backscattered electron microscopy, metallographic analysis and tensile tests. Persistent homogeneity of Al-Cu powder mixtures and LBM solids is found only with particles < 20 µm dry coated with SiOx nanoparticles. Observed segregation phenomena are explained with a decrease in particle mobility at increasing local concentration and the decreasing effectiveness of mass in smaller particles. The main effects are based on geometry, so they are expected to be transferrable to other nanoparticles, alloying components and powder bed technologies, e.g., binder jetting.
Sex-Dimorphic Association of Plasma Fatty Acids with Cardiovascular Fitness in Young and Middle-Aged General Adults: Subsamples from NHANES 2003–2004
Authors: Tsou Pei-Ling , Wu Chang-Jiun
Published: October 2018

To explore the potential association of plasma fatty acids (FAs) and cardiovascular fitness level (CVFL), data of 449 subjects from 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analyzed. Among these 249 men and 200 women, aged 20–50 years (33.4 ± 8.4 year, mean ± Standard Deviation), 79 low, 166 moderate and 204 high CVFL were categorized by age- and gender- specific percentile, respectively. Twenty-four fatty acids were quantified from fasting plasma. Higher levels of 2 very long-chain saturated FAs (VLSFAs): Arachidic acid (AR1, C20:0) and Docosanoic acid (DA1, C22:0) as well as 2 n-6 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs): Arachidonic acid (AA, C20:4n-6) and Docosatetraenoic acid (DTA, C22:4n-6) were observed in the subjects with low CVFL. Notably this association exists only in men. Estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), the marker for cardiorespiratory fitness, was used for further regression analysis. After the adjustment of potential confounding factors (age, smoking, hypertension status, body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance status, and C-reactive protein (CRP), AA was the only FA correlated with low VO2max in women; while in men AR1, DA1, AA, and DTA remain negatively associated with VO2max. This preliminary analysis suggests a sex-dimorphic relationship between these plasma VLSFAs and n-6 PUFAs with CVFL and merits further investigation.
Effect of Cistanche Tubulosa Extracts on Male Reproductive Function in Streptozotocin–Nicotinamide-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kong Zwe-Ling , Johnson Athira , Ko Fan-Chi , He Jia-Ling , Cheng Shu-Chun
Published: October 2018

Diabetes is a chronic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to decreased levels of insulin or the inefficiency of the tissue to use it effectively. Infertility is known as a major outcome of diabetes and affects the male reproductive system by causing sperm impairment and gonadal dysfunction. Cistanche tubulosa is a parasitic plant which has the capacity to improve memory, immunity, and sexual ability, reduce impotence, and minimize constipation. This study was focused on the investigation of the anti-inflammatory and protective effects of echinacoside (ECH) in Cistanche tubulosa extract (CTE) on the male reproductive system of the diabetic rats. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects of CTE were evaluated by both in vitro and in vivo methods. The in vitro results show that the ECH inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and improved StAR, CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and HSD17β3 protein expression. The in vivo analysis was carried out with three doses of echinacoside (ECH) (80, 160, and 320 mg/kg) in CTE. In total, 0.571 mg/kg of rosiglitazone (RSG) was administered as a positive control. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ) (65 mg/kg) and nicotinamide (230 mg/kg) in combination with a high-fat diet (45%). The in vivo studies confirmed that the ECH improved blood sugar levels, insulin resistance, leptin resistance, and lipid peroxidation. It can restore kisspeptin 1 (KiSS1), G protein-coupled receptor GPR 54, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS-3), and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression in the hypothalamus and recover sex hormone level. Thus, this study confirmed the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and steroidogenesis effects of CTE.
Biochemical Characterization of Clinical Strains of Staphylococcus spp. and Their Sensitivity to Polyphenols-Rich Extracts from Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.)
Authors: La Camera Erminia , Bisignano Carlo , Crisafi Giuseppe , Smeriglio Antonella , Denaro Marcella , Trombetta Domenico , Mandalari Giuseppina
Published: October 2018

We characterized a number of clinical strains of Staphylococcus spp. and investigated their sensitivity against polyphenols-rich extracts from natural raw and roasted pistachios (NPRE and RPRE, respectively). Out of 31 clinical isolates of Staphylococcus spp., 23 were coagulase-positive and identified as S. aureus, of which 21 were MRSA. Polyphenols-rich extracts from natural pistachios and roasted pistachios were prepared: the total phenols content, expressed as gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g fresh weight (FW), was higher in natural pistachios (359.04 ± 8.124 mg) than roasted pistachios (225.18 ± 5.055 mg). The higher total phenols content in natural pistachios also correlated to the higher free-radical scavenging activity found by DPPH assay: NPRE and RPRE showed IC50 values of 0.85 (C.L. 0.725–0.976 mg mL−1) and 1.15 (C.L. 0.920–1.275 mg mL−1), respectively. Both NPRE and RPRE were active against S. aureus 6538P and Staph. spp. clinical isolates, with RPRE being the most active (MIC values ranging between 31.25 and 2000 μg mL−1). The antimicrobial potential of pistachios could be used to identify novel treatments for S. aureus skin infections.
Links Between Iron and Lipids: Implications in Some Major Human Diseases
Authors: Rockfield Stephanie , Chhabra Ravneet , Robertson Michelle , Rehman Nabila , Bisht Richa , Nanjundan Meera
Published: October 2018

Maintenance of iron homeostasis is critical to cellular health as both its excess and insufficiency are detrimental. Likewise, lipids, which are essential components of cellular membranes and signaling mediators, must also be tightly regulated to hinder disease progression. Recent research, using a myriad of model organisms, as well as data from clinical studies, has revealed links between these two metabolic pathways, but the mechanisms behind these interactions and the role these have in the progression of human diseases remains unclear. In this review, we summarize literature describing cross-talk between iron and lipid pathways, including alterations in cholesterol, sphingolipid, and lipid droplet metabolism in response to changes in iron levels. We discuss human diseases correlating with both iron and lipid alterations, including neurodegenerative disorders, and the available evidence regarding the potential mechanisms underlying how iron may promote disease pathogenesis. Finally, we review research regarding iron reduction techniques and their therapeutic potential in treating patients with these debilitating conditions. We propose that iron-mediated alterations in lipid metabolic pathways are involved in the progression of these diseases, but further research is direly needed to elucidate the mechanisms involved.
Modulation of Hypoxia-Induced Chemoresistance to Polymeric Micellar Cisplatin: The Effect of Ligand Modification of Micellar Carrier Versus Inhibition of the Mediators of Drug Resistance
Authors: Soleymani Abyaneh Hoda , Soleimani Amir Hassan , Vakili Mohammad Reza , Soudy Rania , Kaur Kamaljit , Cuda Francesco , Tavassoli Ali , Lavasanifar Afsaneh
Published: October 2018

Hypoxia can induce chemoresistance, which is a significant clinical obstacle in cancer therapy. Here, we assessed development of hypoxia-induced chemoresistance (HICR) against free versus polymeric cisplatin micelles in a triple negative breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. We then explored two strategies for the modulation of HICR against cisplatin micelles: a) the development of actively targeted micelles; and b) combination therapy with modulators of HICR in MDA-MB-231 cells. Actively targeted cisplatin micelles were prepared through surface modification of acetal-poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(α-carboxyl-ε-caprolactone) (acetal-PEO-PCCL) micelles with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-targeting peptide, GE11 (YHWYGYTPQNVI). Our results showed that hypoxia induced resistance against free and cisplatin micelles in MDA-MB-231 cells. A significant increase in micellar cisplatin uptake was observed in MDA-MB-231 cells that overexpress EGFR, following surface modification of micelles with GE11. This did not lead to increased cytotoxicity of micellar cisplatin, however. On the other hand, the addition of pharmacological inhibitors of key molecules involved in HICR in MDA-MB-231 cells, i.e., inhibitors of hypoxia inducing factor-1 (HIF-1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), substantially enhanced the cytotoxicity of free and cisplatin micelles. The results indicated the potential benefit of combination therapy with HIF-1 and STAT3 inhibitors in overcoming HICR to free or micellar cisplatin.
Design and Optimization of a Hyper-Branched Polyimide Proton Exchange Membrane with Ultra-High Methanol-Permeation Resistivity for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells Applications
Authors: Ma Liying , Xu Guoxiao , Li Shuai , Ma Jiao , Li Jing , Cai Weiwei
Published: October 2018

A hyper-branched sulfonated polyimide (s-PI) was synthesized successfully and composited with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to achieve ultra-high methanol-permeation resistive for direct methanol fuel cell application. The optimized s-PI-PVDF composite membrane exhibited methanol resistivity low to 1.80 × 10−8 cm2/s, two orders of magnitude lower than the value of the commercial Nafion 117 membrane (60 × 10−7 cm2/s). At the same time, the tensile strength of the composite membrane is 22 MPa, which is comparable to the value of the Nafion 117 membrane. Therefore, the composite membrane is promising for application in direct methanol fuel cell.
Believing in Women? Examining Early Views of Women among America’s Most Progressive Religious Groups
Authors: Wilde Melissa J. , Al-Faham Hajer
Published: October 2018

This paper examines views of women among the most prominent “progressive” American religious groups (as defined by those that liberalized early on the issue of birth control, circa 1929). We focus on the years between the first and second waves of the feminist movement (1929–1965) in order to examine these views during a time of relative quiescence. We find that some groups indeed have a history of outspoken support for women’s equality. Using their modern-day names, these groups—the United Church of Christ, the Unitarian Universalist Association, and to a lesser extent, the Society of Friends, or Quakers—professed strong support for women’s issues, early and often. However, we also find that prominent progressive groups—the Protestant Episcopal Church, the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the United Presbyterian Church—were virtually silent on the issue of women’s rights. Thus, we conclude that birth control activism within the American religious field was not clearly correlated with an overall feminist orientation.
Facing the Issues Raised in Psalm 1 through Thinking and Feeling: Applying the SIFT Approach to Biblical Hermeneutics among Muslim Educators
Authors: Francis Leslie J. , McKenna Ursula , Sahin Abdullah
Published: October 2018

A group of 22 Muslim educators participating in a residential Islamic Education summer school were invited to explore their individual preferences for thinking and feeling (the two functions of the Jungian judging process). They were then invited to work in three groups (seven clear thinking types, eight clear feeling types, and seven individuals less clear of their preference) to discuss Psalm 1. Clear differences emerged between the ways in which thinking types and feeling types handled the judgement metred out to the wicked in the Psalm. The feeling types were disturbed by the portrayal of God in Psalm 1 and sought ways to mitigate the stark message. The thinking types confronted the dangers to which this image of God could lead and sought pedagogic strategies for dealing with these dangers.
A Novel Orthogonal Waveform Separation Scheme for Airborne MIMO-SAR Systems
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhu Ke-Hong , Wang Li-Na , Liang Xing-Dong , Chen Long-Yong
Published: October 2018

In recent years, multi-input multi-output (MIMO) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems, which can promote the performance of 3D imaging, high-resolution wide-swath remote sensing, and multi-baseline interferometry, have received considerable attention. Several papers on MIMO-SAR have been published, but the research of such systems is seriously limited. This is mainly because the superposed echoes of the multiple transmitted orthogonal waveforms cannot be separated perfectly. The imperfect separation will introduce ambiguous energy and degrade SAR images dramatically. In this paper, a novel orthogonal waveform separation scheme based on echo-compression is proposed for airborne MIMO-SAR systems. Specifically, apart from the simultaneous transmissions, the transmitters are required to radiate several times alone in a synthetic aperture to sense their private inner-aperture channels. Since the channel responses at the neighboring azimuth positions are relevant, the energy of the solely radiated orthogonal waveforms in the superposed echoes will be concentrated. To this end, the echoes of the multiple transmitted orthogonal waveforms can be separated by cancelling the peaks. In addition, the cleaned echoes, along with original superposed one, can be used to reconstruct the unambiguous echoes. The proposed scheme is validated by simulations.
Animating ‘The Blank Page’: Exhibitions as Feminist Community Adult Education
Authors: Clover Darlene E.
Published: October 2018

Public museums and art galleries in Canada are highly authoritative, and trusted knowledge and identity mobilising institutions, whose exhibitions are frequently a ‘blank page’ of erasure, silencing, and marginalisation, in terms of women’s histories, experiences, and contributions. Feminist exhibitions are a response to this, but few in Canada have been explored as practices of feminist community adult education. I begin to address this gap with an analysis of two feminist exhibitions: In Defiance: Indigenous Women Define Themselves, curated by Mohawk-Iroquois artist, Lindsay Katsitsakatste Delaronde, at the Legacy Gallery, University of Victoria; and Fashion Victims: The Pleasures & Perils of Dress in the 19th Century, curated by Ryerson Professor Alison Matthews David, at the Bata Shoe Museum, Toronto. Although dissimilar in form, focus, and era, these exhibitions act as powerful intentional pedagogical processes of disruption and reclamation, using images and storytelling to animate, re-write and reimagine the ‘blank pages’ of particular and particularised histories and identities. Through the centrality of women’s bodies and practices of violence, victimization, and women’s power, these exhibitions encourage the feminist oppositional imagination, dialogic looking, gender consciousness, and a visual literacy of hope and possibility. Yet, as women’s stories become audible through the very representational vehicles and institutional spaces used to silence them, challenges remain.
Deindustrialisation, Community, and Adult Education: The North East England Experience
Authors: Forster Jo , Petrie Margaret , Crowther Jim
Published: October 2018

This article argues for the continued importance of adult education in communities, an approach to adult education which has been maligned and ignored in policy that has, instead, incessantly prioritised employability skills training. The significance of adult education in communities is that it seeks to build the curriculum from the interests, aspirations, and problems that people experience in their everyday lives by providing opportunities for individual and collective change (more below). We draw on data taken from a study by one of the authors, which used a life history approach to explore the outcomes for 14 people from the deindustrialised North East England of participation in either employability skills training or community adult education. We document several themes through these stories: churning, surveillance, precarity, demoralisation, ontological insecurity, and personal renewal.
Using Drop Jumps and Jump Squats to Assess Eccentric and Concentric Force-Velocity Characteristics
Authors: Moir Gavin L. , Snyder Brandon W. , Connaboy Chris , Lamont Hugh S. , Davis Shala E.
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the eccentric and concentric force-velocity (Fv) characteristics recorded during drop jumps (DJ) from different heights and loaded jump squats (JS) and to determine the number of jumps required to accurately model the eccentric and concentric Fv relationships. Fourteen resistance-trained men (age: 21.9 ± 1.8 years) performed a countermovement jump (CMJ) and DJ from heights of 0.40, 0.60, and 0.80 m. JS with loads equivalent to 0%, 27%, 56%, and 85% 1-repetition maximum were performed in a separate session. Force platforms and a 3-D motion analysis system were used to record the average force ( F ¯ ) and velocity ( v ¯ ) during the absorption (CMJ, DJ40, DJ60, DJ80) and propulsion (JS0, JS27, JS56, JS85) phases of the jumps. Eccentric (absorption phase) and concentric (propulsion phase) Fv characteristics were then calculated and linear regression equations were determined when the number of jumps included was varied. F ¯ during the absorption phase significantly increased from CMJ to DJ60 while v ¯ increased significantly from CMJ to DJ80. The two-point method (CMJ, DJ80) resulted in a significantly lower y-intercept (mean difference [MD]: 0.7 N/kg) and a greater slope (MD: 0.7 Ns/m) for the eccentric Fv characteristics compared to the multiple-point method. F ¯ increased significantly and v ¯ decreased significantly with increasing external load in the JS conditions. The two-point method (JS0, JS85) resulted in a significantly greater y-intercept (MD: 1.1 N/kg) compared to the multiple-point method for the concentric Fv characteristics. Both DJ and loaded JS may provide means of assessing the eccentric and concentric Fv characteristics with only two jumps being required.
A Brief Review on Concurrent Training: From Laboratory to the Field
Authors: Methenitis Spyridon
Published: October 2018

The majority of sports rely on concurrent training (CT; e.g., the simultaneous training of strength and endurance). However, a phenomenon called “Concurrent training effect” (CTE), which is a compromise in adaptation resulting from concurrent training, appears to be mostly affected by the interference of the molecular pathways of the underlying adaptations from each type of training segments. Until now, it seems that the volume, intensity, type, frequency of endurance training, as well as the training history and background strongly affect the CTE. High volume, moderate, continuous and frequent endurance training, are thought to negatively affect the resistance training-induced adaptations, probably by inhibition of the Protein kinase B—mammalian target of rapamycin pathway activation, of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). In contrast, it seems that short bouts of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or sprint interval training (SIT) minimize the negative effects of concurrent training. This is particularly the case when HIIT and SIT incorporated in cycling have even lower or even no negative effects, while they provide at least the same metabolic adaptations, probably through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator (PGC-1a) pathway. However, significant questions about the molecular events underlying the CTE remain unanswered.
Analyzing Spatial Structure of Traditional Houses in Old Towns with Tourism Development and Its Transformation toward Sustainable Development of Residential Environments in Hexia Old Town, in China
Authors: Nomura Rie , Shan Siyuan , Mori Suguru
Published: October 2018

This study elucidates the spatial structure of traditional houses, and its transformation toward sustainable development of residential environments in old towns that are currently the focus of tourism development initiatives. Hexia old town in Huai’an District, China, was chosen for this study involving a field survey, questionnaire survey, and interviews. Data analysis identified three periods of residential transformation and three patterns of the residential transformation process. In all cases, there was low awareness of building conservation measures and lack of tourism development by the government, which has translated into ongoing residential transformations according to the demands of daily life. However, in the interests of tourism development, some businesses have started making use of vacant residences and traditional homes, and the relative proximity to work and home imply sustainability of residents’ lifestyles under these conditions. An improvement plan for an old town requires a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding residential modifications executed by residents, the problems faced in the living environment, as well as efforts to increase the residents’ awareness of the issue of sustainable living in that old town.
Teaching Methods in Biology Promoting Biodiversity Education
Authors: Yli-Panula Eija , Jeronen Eila , Lemmetty Piia , Pauna Anna
Published: October 2018

The aim of this qualitative survey was to investigate what kind of teaching methods have been used in biology to promote biodiversity education (BDE) and how the methods support biodiversity (BD) learning. We found, in total, 317 international scientific articles published since 2000 which described the teaching methods regarding BDE and the teaching, and/or the learning. From these ones 12 articles specifically addressed the teaching methods of BD. The content of these articles was analysed in detail. The detailed analysis was based on (a) the categories of the teaching methods used, (b) the conception of learning in the Finnish National Core Curricula for Secondary schools and (c) the revised Bloom’s taxonomy and Stanny’s verbs concerning the levels of taxonomy. The most used teaching methods were hands-on instruction, experiential learning, and teacher presentation. The least used ones were games, roleplay, debates, service learning, study trips, and visits. In all the articles, various teaching methods used during the lessons were described. The items concerning the teaching methods, which supported students learning were active participation and interaction—mentioned in all the articles—followed by observation, experimental work, experiential learning, and techniques for increasing environmental awareness. The understanding of the different perspectives of BD and the development of self-evaluation were addressed in only four and two of the articles, respectively. The four types of knowledge were supported by the used teaching methods in nine articles jointly. The lower levels of thinking skills were well-supported by the used teaching methods. The highest level of thinking skills, such as synthesis and evaluation, received the least amount of attention.
An Image Secret Sharing Method Based on Matrix Theory
Authors: Ding Wanmeng , Liu Kesheng , Yan Xuehu , Wang Huaixi , Liu Lintao , Gong Qinghong
Published: October 2018

Most of today’s secret image sharing technologies are based on the polynomial-based secret sharing scheme proposed by shamir. At present, researchers mostly focus on the development of properties such as small shadow size and lossless recovery, instead of the principle of Shamir’s polynomial-based SS scheme. In this paper, matrix theory is used to analyze Shamir’s polynomial-based scheme, and a general (k, n) threshold secret image sharing scheme based on matrix theory is proposed. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is proved by theoretical and experimental results. Moreover, it has been proved that the Shamir’s polynomial-based SS scheme is a special case of our proposed scheme.
Vector Similarity Measures of Q-Linguistic Neutrosophic Variable Sets and Their Multi-Attribute Decision Making Method
Authors: Ye Jun , Fang Zebo , Cui Wenhua
Published: October 2018

Since language is used for thinking and expressing habits of humans in real life, the linguistic evaluation for an objective thing is expressed easily in linguistic terms/values. However, existing linguistic concepts cannot describe linguistic arguments regarding an evaluated object in two-dimensional universal sets (TDUSs). To describe linguistic neutrosophic arguments in decision making problems regarding TDUSs, this study proposes a Q-linguistic neutrosophic variable set (Q-LNVS) for the first time, which depicts its truth, indeterminacy, and falsity linguistic values independently corresponding to TDUSs, and vector similarity measures of Q-LNVSs. Thereafter, a linguistic neutrosophic multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) approach by using the presented similarity measures, including the cosine, Dice, and Jaccard measures, is developed under Q-linguistic neutrosophic setting. Lastly, the applicability and effectiveness of the presented MADM approach is presented by an illustrative example under Q-linguistic neutrosophic setting.
Numerical Analysis of Sensitivity of Structure of the Stratification in Lake Biwa, Japan by Changing Meteorological Elements
Authors: Koue Jinichi , Shimadera Hikari , Matsuo Tomohito , Kondo Akira
Published: October 2018

Climatic factors such as air temperature and wind speed can affect the structure of stratification in Lake Biwa. In general, the rise in air temperature and the decrease in wind speed weaken the vertical mixing and strengthen the structure of the stratification, which interrupts the transport of the substances. However, how much the change of each climate element can influence the structure of the stratification is not clarified. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the effects of each element on the stratification quantitatively. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the change in air temperature and wind speed on the seasonal change of stratification in Lake Biwa by using a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model. Numerical simulations were carried out for a baseline case using realistic meteorological data from 2007 to 2012 and hypothetical cases using meteorological data with modified air temperature or wind speed for sensitivity analysis. The analysis showed that the increase and decrease in air temperature changed the vertical water temperature uniformly in almost all layers. Thus, the strength of the stratification is hardly changed. The increase and decrease in wind speed, however, altered the water temperature near the surface of the lake, so that it significantly influenced the stratification. The increase in wind speed made the water parcels of the surface layer well mixed, and the decrease in wind speed made the mixed layer thinner.
Stochastic Modeling of the Charging Behavior of Electromobility
Authors: Sokorai Peter , Fleischhacker Andreas , Lettner Georg , Auer Hans
Published: October 2018

As electric vehicle market penetration grows steadily and charging demand along with it, the analysis of daily usage gains in significance. We propose in this paper a simple yet powerful tool based on a Markov chain that can model the stochastic nature of day to day usage of a charging station if adequate datasets on travel patterns are available. The model is generic and therefore can be tailored to different locations with different features. Within this work, we conducted a case study with the aim to verify the algorithm. By an additional sensitivity analysis, impacts of the made assumptions are considered. With a final analysis of two charging tariff designs the model provides valuable stochastic information about electricity consumption and annual revenues at a location of interest.
Canine Vertebral Screw and Rod Fixation System: Design and Mechanical Testing
Authors: Suwanna Nirut , Meij Björn , Lewchalermwong Pakthorn
Published: October 2018

Objectives To develop the canine vertebral screw and rod fixation system (CVSRF) and to compare the biomechanical properties between CVSRF and the screw and polymethylmethacrylate (Screw-PMMA) technique for internal fixation of the vertebral column in dogs.

Methods The CVSRF consisted of vertebral screws with monoaxial side-loaded head, rods and specific inner screws connecting rod to the screw head. The CVSRF prototype was made from titanium alloy and manufactured by the rapid prototype machine. Vertebrectomy models were simulated by ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene blocks and tested with the CVSRF system (n = 8) and the Screw-PMMA technique (n = 8). The models were developed according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM F-1717–04). The biomechanical parameters were the compressive bending yield load, the compressive bending stiffness, the compressive ultimate load and the load displacement curve.

Results The mean values of the compressive bending yield load, compressive bending stiffness and compressive ultimate load of the CVSRF were significantly higher than those of the Screw-PMMA technique (p < 0.01). The load displacement curve of the CVSRF showed higher rigidity and durability than that of the Screw-PMMA technique.

Clinical Significance This mechanical study indicated that the CVSRF system can be used for canine vertebral stabilization and the biomechanical properties were better than those for the Screw-PMMA device.