bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Recent Falls and Changes in Outdoor Environments near Community-Dwelling Older Adults’ Homes over Time: Findings from the NHATS Study
Authors: Lee Sungmin , Lee Chanam , Ory Marcia G.
Published: September 2019

Neighborhood environments have been increasingly associated with incidents of falling and the fear of falling. However, little is known about the causal impact of neighborhood environments on falling. This study identifies whether changes in outdoor environmental attributes over a one-year period are associated with the occurrence of recent falls among community-dwelling older adults aged 65 and older in the United States. Data were obtained from 4802 adults aged 65 years or older from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify neighborhood risk factors linked to the odds of experiencing recent falls at the one-year follow-up. Almost one in ten subjects (9.7% of 4802 subjects) who had not fallen before reported experiencing recent falls after one year. After adjusting for sociodemographic, health, and walking-related behavioral covariates, these subjects were more likely to reside in areas with higher environmental barriers on sidewalks/streets and uneven walking surfaces or broken steps, compared to non-fallers. Our findings suggest that safe and well-maintained outdoor environments may help prevent falls among community-dwelling older adults who engage in outdoor activities. Clinical and environmental interventions for promoting both safe walking and safe environments are warranted.
Integrating Public Health into Climate Change Policy and Planning: State of Practice Update
Authors: Fox Mary , Zuidema Christopher , Bauman Bridget , Burke Thomas , Sheehan Mary
Published: September 2019

Policy action in the coming decade will be crucial to achieving globally agreed upon goals to decarbonize the economy and build resilience to a warmer, more extreme climate. Public health has an essential role in climate planning and action: “Co-benefits” to health help underpin greenhouse gas reduction strategies, while safeguarding health—particularly of the most vulnerable—is a frontline local adaptation goal. Using the structure of the core functions and essential services (CFES), we reviewed the literature documenting the evolution of public health’s role in climate change action since the 2009 launch of the US CDC Climate and Health Program. We found that the public health response to climate change has been promising in the area of assessment (monitoring climate hazards, diagnosing health status, assessing vulnerability); mixed in the area of policy development (mobilizing partnerships, mitigation and adaptation activities); and relatively weak in assurance (communication, workforce development and evaluation). We suggest that the CFES model remains important, but is not aligned with three concepts—governance, implementation and adjustment—that have taken on increasing importance. Adding these concepts to the model can help ensure that public health fulfills its potential as a proactive partner fully integrated into climate policy planning and action in the coming decade.
Individual Behavior Simulation Based on Grid Object and Agent Model
Authors: Song Yiquan , Niu Lei , Li Yi
Published: September 2019

For the simplicity of spatial modeling in Cellular Automaton (CA) and the complexity of vector spatial expression in the Multi-Agent System (MAS), the concept of grid object as the spatial model of individual behavior simulation was proposed with spatial information, semantic information, and connection relationship of geographic entity. Then, by incorporating the MAS, the method for individual behavior simulation with the Grid Object and Agent Model (GOAM) was demonstrated. Meanwhile, a prototype system including the three subsystems was developed based on the GOAM, and experiments were conducted for two cases in different spatial environments. The prototype system can be used to obtain grid object data with 3D model data, to compute and simulate the behavior of individuals, and to render individuals. The two cases involve goal-driven behavior in both indoor and outdoor environments as examples to evaluate the validity of the GOAM and to provide a reference for building individual behavior simulation with the GOAM in other scenarios.
Anti-Tumor Potential of a 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonist as a Novel Autophagy Inducer in Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Clinical Study with In Vitro Confirmation
Authors: Lee Jeong Soo , Park Seong Yong , Kim Na Young , Kim Dong Wook , Oh Ju Eun , Heo Eunjin , Lee Jong Seok , Yoo Young Chul
Published: September 2019

Unlike 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) 1 and 5-HT2, the effect of 5-HT3 receptors on tumor cells is poorly understood. We conducted this study to determine whether the perioperative use of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, which are widely used antiemetics, impacts the recurrence and mortality after lung cancer surgery and related anti-tumor mechanisms. From data on 411 patients, propensity score matching was used to produce 60 1:2 matched pairs of patients, and variables associated with the prognosis after open lung cancer surgery were analyzed. Additionally, the effects of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists were confirmed in vitro on A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. Cancer recurrence occurred in 10 (8.2%) and 14 (22.95%) patients (p = 0.005), treated or untreated, with palonosetron or ramosetron. Perioperative usage of palonosetron or ramosetron was also associated with lower recurrence rate after lung cancer surgery (hazard ratio (HR), 0.293; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.110–0.780, p = 0.0141). Our in vitro experiments also showed that palonosetron and ramosetron inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation and reduced migration, which was associated with autophagic cell death via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Palonosetron and ramosetron may have anti-tumor potential against lung cancer cells, suggesting the need to consider these drugs as first-choice antiemetics in patients undergoing lung cancer surgery.
Prevalence of Early Chronic Kidney Disease and Main Associated Factors in Spanish Population: Populational Study
Authors: Expósito Carmen , Pera Guillem , Rodríguez Lluís , Arteaga Ingrid , Martínez Alba , Alumà Alba , Doladé María , Torán Pere , Caballeria Llorenç
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of early chronic kidney disease (EKD) (stages 1 and 2) and the factors associated. This was a populational study including individuals from 18–75 years randomly selected from 18 Primary Healthcare centers in the area of Barcelonès Nord and Maresme (Catalunya, Spain). Variables: anamnesis, physical examination, blood pressure, and analysis. EKD was defined with by a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥17 mg/g in men and ≥25 mg/g in women confirmed with two determinations. 2871 individuals: 43% men, mean age 55 years (19–75), 32.2% obese, 50.5% abdominal obesity, 21.1% hypertensive, and 10.6% diabetic. Prevalence of EKD: With one determination 157 individuals (5.5%), 110 men (9%) and 47 women (2.8%); with two determinations 109 individuals (3.8%), 85 men (7%), and 24 women (1.5%). Factors independently associated with the multivariate logistic regression model: Man (OR 3.35), blood pressure ≥ 135/85 mmHg (OR 2.29), BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (OR 2.48), glycemia ≥ 100 mg/dL (OR 1.73), smoker (OR 1.67) and age (OR 1.04). The prevalence varies if the diagnosis is established based on one or two analytical determinations, overestimated if only one determination is made and depends on the value chosen to define urine albumin excretion.
Effect of Graphene on Machinability of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP)
Authors: El-Ghaoui Khalid , Chatelain Jean-Francois , Ouellet-Plamondon Claudiane
Published: September 2019

Glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRPs) are used extensively in many industries because of their low cost and high mechanical properties. Even if composite manufacturing processes are well controlled and allow to fabricate near net shapes, machining operations are still necessary to complete the manufacturing. As a composite material, GFRP machining remains difficult because of its heterogeneous and anisotropic character. This work intends to investigate the effect of graphene addition to the epoxy matrix of GFRP on its machinability. The epoxy was filled with 1 wt% graphene by mixing, sonicating, and then being used to produce unidirectional GFRP laminate by hand layup methods. Thermocouples were bonded on a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond coated tool in order to record cutting temperatures during the trimming process. The cutting forces were recorded and the resulting surface roughness after trimming was measured to qualify properly the machinability of the modified GFRP. Compared to the reference material (GFRP without graphene), the additive improved the machining process by decreasing the cutting temperature and forces as well as the surface roughness without deteriorating the inter-laminar shear strength.
Long-Term Analysis of the Black Sea Weather Windows
Authors: Onea Florin , Rusu Liliana
Published: September 2019

A particular aspect of the maritime operations involves available weather intervals, especially in the context of the emerging renewable energy projects. The Black Sea basin is considered for assessment in this work, by analyzing a total of 30-years (1987–2016) of high-resolution wind and wave data. Furthermore, using as reference, the operations thresholds of some installation vessels, some relevant case studies have been identified. The evaluation was made over the entire sea basin, but also for some specific sites located close to the major harbors. In general, the significant wave heights with values above 2.5 m present a maximum restriction of 6%, while for the western sector, a percentage value of 40% is associated to a significant wave height of 1 m. There are situations in which the persistence of a restriction reaches a maximum time interval of 96-h; this being the case of the sites Constanta, Sulina, Istanbul or Burgas. From a long-term perspective, it seems that there is a tendency of the waves to increase close to the Romanian, Bulgarian, and Turkish coastal environments—while an opposite trend is expected for the sites located on the eastern side.
Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus Pathogenicity and Polymicrobial Interactions: Lessons beyond Koch’s Postulates
Authors: Todd Olivia A. , Peters Brian M
Published: September 2019

While Koch’s Postulates have established rules for microbial pathogenesis that have been extremely beneficial for monomicrobial infections, new studies regarding polymicrobial pathogenesis defy these standards. The explosion of phylogenetic sequence data has revolutionized concepts of microbial interactions on and within the host. However, there remains a paucity of functional follow-up studies to delineate mechanisms driven by such interactions and how they shape health or disease. That said, one particular microbial pairing, the fungal opportunist Candida albicans and the bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, has received much attention over the last decade. Therefore, the objective of this review is to discuss the multi-faceted mechanisms employed by these two ubiquitous human pathogens during polymicrobial growth, including how they: establish and persist in inter-Kingdom biofilms, tolerate antimicrobial therapy, co-invade host tissue, exacerbate quorum sensing and staphylococcal toxin production, and elicit infectious synergism. Commentary regarding new challenges and remaining questions related to future discovery of this fascinating fungal–bacterial interaction is also provided.
Participatory Mapping in a Developing Country Context: Lessons from South Africa
Authors: Weyer Dylan , Bezerra Joana Carlos , De Vos Alta
Published: September 2019

Digital participatory mapping improves accessibility to spatial information and the way in which knowledge is co-constructed and landscapes co-managed with impoverished communities. However, many unintended consequences for social and epistemic justice may be exacerbated in developing country contexts. Two South African case studies incorporating Direct-to-Digital participatory mapping in marginalized communities to inform land-use decision-making, and the ethical challenges of adopting this method are discussed. Understanding the past and present context of the site and the power dynamics at play is critical to develop trust and manage expectations among research participants. When employing unfamiliar technology, disparate literacy levels and language barriers create challenges for ensuring participants understand the risks of their involvement and recognize their rights. The logistics of using this approach in remote areas with poor infrastructure and deciding how best to leave the participants with the maps they have co-produced in an accessible format present further challenges. Overcoming these can however offer opportunity for redressing past injustices and empowering marginalized communities with a voice in decisions that affect their livelihoods.
Improvement of Adhesive Wear Behavior by Variable Heat Treatment of a Tool Steel for Sheet Metal Forming
Authors: Gonzalez-Pociño Alejandro , Alvarez-Antolin Florentino , Asensio-Lozano Juan
Published: September 2019

Vanadis 10 steel is a powder metallurgy (PM) processed tool steel. It is a ledeburitic steel with 8% Cr and 10% V. By deliberately varying the process parameters related to the quenching, tempering, and nitriding of these steels, the aim of this study is to determine which of these parameters have a significant influence on its adhesive wear resistance. The research methodology employed was a Design of Experiments (DoE) with six factors and two levels for each factor. The tempering temperature, number of temperings, and carrying out of a thermochemical nitriding treatment were found to have a significant effect. To increase adhesive wear resistance, austenitization at 1100 °C with air cooling is recommended, followed by three temperings at 500 °C and a subsequent nitriding treatment. It should be noted that the quench cooling medium does not have a significant influence on wear resistance. Furthermore, (Fe,Cr)7C3 (M7C3 carbides) are transformed into carbonitrides during nitriding. However, (Fe,V)C (MC carbides) are not affected by this nitriding process.
Preparation and Tribological Properties of Carbon-Coated WS2 Nanosheets
Authors: Li Zheng , Meng Fanshan , Ding Haohao , Wang Wenjian , Liu Qiyue
Published: September 2019

WS2-C is produced from a hydrothermal reaction, in which WS2 nano-sheets are coated with carbon, using glucose as the carbon source. In order to investigate the tribological properties of WS2-C as a lubricant additive, WS2-C was modified by surfactant Span80, and friction tests were carried out on an MRS-10A four-ball friction and wear tester. The results show that Span80 can promote the dispersibility of WS2-C effectively in base oil. Adding an appropriate concentration of WS2-C can improve the anti-wear and anti-friction performance of the base oil. The friction coefficient reached its lowest point upon adding 0.1 wt % WS2-C, reduced by 16.7% compared to the base oil. Meanwhile, the wear scar diameter reached its minimum with 0.15 wt % WS2, decreasing by 26.45%. Moreover, at this concentration, the depth and width of the groove and the surface roughness on the wear scar achieved their minimum. It is concluded that WS2-C dispersed in oil could enter friction pairs to avoid their direct contact, thereby effectively reducing friction and wear. At the same time, WS2-C reacts with the friction matrix material to form a protective film, composed of C, Fe2O3, FeSO4, WO3, and WS2, repairing the worn surface.
Tensors in Newtonian Physics and the Foundations of Classical Continuum Mechanics
Authors: Brovko George L.
Published: September 2019

In the Newtonian approach to mechanics, the concepts of objective tensors of various ranks and types are introduced. The tough classification of objective tensors is given, including tensors of material and spatial types. The diagrams are constructed for non-degenerate (“analogous”) relations between tensors of one and the same (any) rank, and of various types of objectivity. Mappings expressing dependence between objective tensor processes of various ranks and types are considered. The fundamental concept of frame-independence of such mappings is introduced as being inherent to constitutive relations of various physical and mechanical properties in the Newtonian approach. The criteria are established for such frame-independence. The mathematical restrictions imposed on the frame-independent mappings by the objectivity types of connected tensors are simultaneously revealed. The absence of such restrictions is established exclusively for mappings and equations linking tensors of material types. Using this, a generalizing concept of objective differentiation of tensor processes in time, and a new concept of objective integration, are introduced. The axiomatic construction of the generalized theory of stress and strain tensors in continuum mechanics is given, which leads to the emergence of continuum classes and families of new tensor measures. The axioms are proposed and a variant of the general theory of constitutive relations of mechanical properties of continuous media is constructed, generalizing the known approaches by Ilyushin and Noll, taking into account the possible presence of internal kinematic constraints and internal body-forces in the body. The concepts of the process image and the properties of the five-dimensional Ilyushin’s isotropy are generalized on the range of finite strains.
Transperineal Ultrasound Assessment of a Cystocele’s Impact on the Bladder Neck Mobility in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Rada Maria-Patricia , Ciortea Răzvan , Măluțan Andrei , Diculescu Doru , Berceanu Costin , Oancea Mihaela , Iuhas Cristian , Bucuri Carmen , Roman Andrei , Mihu Dan
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: As pelvic floor disorders are often difficult to assess thoroughly based on clinical examination alone, the use of imaging as a complementary technique is helpful. This study’s aim was to investigate by transperineal ultrasound (US) if there was any significant difference in the mobility of the bladder neck in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) without a cystocele and in those with SUI and an associated cystocele. The study also investigated whether the number of vaginal births and/or the heaviest newborn’s birth weight was correlated with the bladder neck mobility. Materials and Methods: A total of 71 women suffering from SUI were included in the study and divided into two groups based on the presence of a cystocele. Their bladder neck mobility was evaluated by transperineal US, calculating the distance from the inferior margin of the symphysis pubis to the bladder neck (SPBN), and the dorsocaudal linear movement (DLM), term used to illustrate the displacement of the bladder neck by subtracting rest and Valsalva values. GraphPad Prism 8 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Within both study groups, the SPBN values were significantly higher and the DLM values were significantly lower at rest as compared to Valsalva maneuver (p < 0.05). No significant difference between the groups regarding SPBN and DLM values at rest, Valsalva, or subtraction was demonstrated. A significant positive correlation was found between the bladder neck mobility and the heaviest newborn’s birth weight, regardless of the presence of a cystocele (p = 0.042). Conclusions: The presence of a cystocele had no significant impact on the bladder neck mobility measurements in patients with SUI. The heaviest newborn’s birth weight positively correlated with bladder neck hypermobility, as quantified by SPBN.
Polymorphism rs2066865 in the Fibrinogen Gamma Chain (FGG) Gene Increases Plasma Fibrinogen Concentration and Is Associated with an Increased Microvascular Thrombosis Rate
Authors: Drizlionoka Karina , Zariņš Jānis , Ozoliņa Agnese , Ņikitina-Zaķe Liene , Mamaja Biruta
Published: September 2019

Background and Objective: Thrombosis due to inherited hypercoagulability is an issue that has been raised in microvascular flap surgery previously. We analyzed the association of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in rs2066865 in the fibrinogen gamma chain (FGG) gene, alteration in plasma fibrinogen concentration, and presence of microvascular flap thrombosis. Materials and Methods: A total of 104 adult patients with microvascular flap surgery were subjected to an analysis of the presence of SNP rs2066865 in the FGG gene. Alterations in plasma fibrinogen concentration according to genotype were determined as a primary outcome, and flap thrombosis was defined as a secondary outcome. Results: Flap thrombosis was detected in 11.5% of patients (n = 12). Successful revision of anastomosis was performed in four patients, resulting in a microvascular flap survival rate of 92.3%. We observed an increase in plasma fibrinogen concentration in genotype G/A and A/A carriers (G/G, 3.9 (IQR 4.76-3.04); G/A, 4.28 (IQR 5.38-3.18); A/A, 6.87 (IQR 8.25-5.49) (A/A vs. G/A, p = 0.003 and A/A vs. G/G, p = 0.001). Within group differences in microvascular flap thrombosis incidence rates were observed—G/G 6/79 (7.59%); G/A 5/22 (22.7%); A/A 1/3 (33.3%) (OR 0.30 95%; CI 0.044 to 0.57), p = 0.016; RR 3.2—when G/G versus G/A and A/A were analyzed respectively. Conclusions: A/A and G/A genotype carriers of a single nucleotide polymorphism in rs2066865 in the fibrinogen gamma chain gene had a higher plasma fibrinogen concentration, and this might be associated with an increased microvascular flap thrombosis incidence rate. Determined polymorphism could be considered as a genetic marker associated with microvascular flap thrombosis development. To confirm the results of this study, the data should be replicated in a greater sample size.
Analysis of Alveolar Bone Morphology of the Maxillary Central and Lateral Incisors with Normal Occlusion
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Jung Chang Yoon , Kim Yoonji , Kook Yoon-Ah , Ko Youngkyung , Park Jun-Beom
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: This study investigated the morphology of the labial and palatal bony wall of the maxillary central and lateral incisors using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The difference between males and females and the measurement between right and left sides were measured. Materials and Methods: Twenty participants, consisting of 11 females and 9 males having normal occlusion, were used for the analysis. The mean age was 21.9 ± 3.0 years. The thickness of the labial bony wall and palatal bony wall, perpendicular to the long axis of the root, were evaluated at 3 and 5 mm apical from the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) and at the root apex. The available bony wall below the apex of the central and lateral incisors, and the angulation between the long axis of the tested tooth and outer surface of the labial bone were measured. Results: The mean labial bony wall thickness at the 3 and 5 mm apical from the CEJ were 1.1 ± 0.3 mm and 1.0 ± 0.4 mm for central incisors, respectively, as well as 1.2 ± 0.4 mm and 1.0 ± 0.4 mm for lateral incisors, respectively. The mean palatal bony wall thickness at 5 mm from the CEJ was above 2 mm in the central and lateral incisors. The percentage of labial bony wall thickness 2 mm or greater at the root apex in central incisors was higher than in lateral incisors (62.5% vs. 55.0%). The percentage of palatal bony wall thickness ≥2 mm at 3 mm apical from the CEJ in the central incisors was higher than in the lateral incisors (37.5% vs. 15.0%). The results on the left and right sides did not show statistically significant differences, except in the labial and palatal bony wall thickness at 3 mm from the CEJ in the lateral incisor. Generally, no significant differences were seen between males and females, but males had a significantly higher labial bony wall thickness at 3 and 5 mm from the CEJ in the central and lateral incisors when compared with females. Conclusions: This study showed that a majority of the cases of Korean participants had less than 2 mm of labial bony wall thickness at 3 and 5 mm apical from the CEJ at central and lateral incisors, and this should be kept in mind while performing dental practices, including tooth extraction or immediate implantation in anterior regions. Preoperative analysis using CBCT may be beneficial for establishing the treatment plan.
Highly Selective Oxygen/Nitrogen Separation Membrane Engineered Using a Porphyrin-Based Oxygen Carrier
Authors: Han Jiuli , Bai Lu , Yang Bingbing , Bai Yinge , Luo Shuangjiang , Zeng Shaojuan , Gao Hongshuai , Nie Yi , Ji Xiaoyan , Zhang Suojiang , Zhang Xiangping
Published: September 2019

Air separation is very important from the viewpoint of the economic and environmental advantages. In this work, defect-free facilitated transport membranes based on poly(amide-12-b-ethylene oxide) (Pebax-2533) and tetra(p-methoxylphenyl)porphyrin cobalt chloride (T(p-OCH3)PPCoCl) were fabricated in systematically varied compositions for O2/N2 separation. T(p-OCH3)PPCoCl was introduced as carriers that selectively and reversibly interacted with O2 and facilitated O2 transport in the membrane. The T(p-OCH3)PPCoCl had good compatibility with the Pebax-2533 via the hydrogen bond interaction and formed a uniform and thin selective layer on the substrate. The O2 separation performance of the thin film composite (TFC) membranes was improved by adding a small amount of the T(p-OCH3)PPCoCl and decreasing the feed pressure. At the pressure of 0.035 MPa, the O2 permeability and O2/N2 selectivity of the 0.6 wt % T(p-OCH3)PPCoCl/Pebax-2533 was more than 3.5 times that of the Pebax-2533 TFC membrane, which reached the 2008 Robeson upper bound. It provides a candidate membrane material for O2/N2 efficient separation in moderate conditions.
The Optimum Process to Produce High-Strength Cast/Forged Al–8%Zn–2.5%Mg–1%Cu Alloy
Authors: Shih Teng-Shih , Kwang Ei-Ting , Huang Yung-Sen
Published: September 2019

Al–8Zn–2.5Mg–1Cu alloy casting blocks were subjected to homogenization and annealing. The treated blocks were then held at different temperatures and forged in different dies to obtain 20 mm-thick plates. After T73 heat treatment, the plates were cut and machined to obtain tensile bar samples that were further subjected to tensile and potentiodynamic polarization tests. Upon analyzing the experimental results, the subzero-treated and forged samples (SO) developed fine grains in their matrix and displayed yield stress (YS) about 400 MPa and an elongation of 11%. The hot-forged samples (HC) displayed a relatively higher YS slightly >440 MPa and a lower elongation of 4%. The intermetallic compound particles confined to the HC decreased its corrosion resistance to be worse than that of the SO. All anodized and sealed samples effectively improved their corrosion resistance. Due to its fine grains, the anodized SO sample produced a higher Icorr than the anodized HC sample.
Tool Wear, Surface Topography, and Multi-Objective Optimization of Cutting Parameters during Machining AISI 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel Flange
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Liu Zhanqiang , Liang Xiaoliang
Published: September 2019

The application of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel in various industrial fields has been greatly increased, but poor machinability classifies AISI 304 as a difficult-to-cut material. This study investigated the tool wear, surface topography, and optimization of cutting parameters during the machining of an AISI 304 flange component. The machining features of the AISI 304 flange included both cylindrical and end-face surfaces. Experimental results indicated that an increased cutting speed or feed aggravated tool wear and affected the machined surface roughness and surface defects simultaneously. The generation and distribution of surface defects was random. Tearing surface was the major defect in cylinder turning, while side flow was more severe in face turning. The response surface method (RSM) was applied to explore the influence of cutting parameters (e.g., cutting speed, feed, and depth of cut) on surface roughness, material removal rate (MRR), and specific cutting energy (SCE). The quadratic model of each response variable was proposed by analyzing the experimental data. The optimization of the cutting parameters was performed with a surface roughness less than the required value, the maximum MRR, and the minimum SCE as the objective. It was found that the desirable cutting parameters were v = 120 m/min, f = 0.18 mm/rev, and ap = 0.42 mm for the AISI 304 flange to be machined.
Synthesis and Herbicidal Activity Against Buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris) of (±)-3-deoxyradicinin
Authors: Marsico Giulia , Ciccone Maria Sabrina , Masi Marco , Freda Fabrizio , Cristofaro Massimo , Evidente Antonio , Superchi Stefano , Scafato Patrizia
Published: September 2019

A novel synthetic strategy for obtainment of (±)-3-deoxyradicinin (2) is reported. This synthetic methodology is more efficient than those previously reported in the literature and also shows higher versatility towards the introduction of different side-chains at both C-7 and C-2. The obtained compound (±)-2 shows phytotoxicity against the grass-weed buffelgrass comparable to that of the natural phytotoxin radicinin (1). Therefore, (±)-2 can constitute a more practical synthetic alternative to 1 as bioherbicide for buffelgrass control.
Chemical Constituents and Biological Activity Profiles on Pleione (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Wu Xiao-Qian , Li Wei , Chen Jing-Xin , Zhai Jun-Wen , Xu Hui-You , Ni Lin , Wu Sha-Sha
Published: September 2019

Pleione (Orchidaceae) is not only famous for the ornamental value in Europe because of its special color, but also endemic in Southern Asia for its use in traditional medicine. A great deal of research about its secondary metabolites and biological activities has been done on only three of 30 species of Pleione. Up to now, 183 chemical compounds, such as phenanthrenes, bibenzyls, glucosyloxybenzyl succinate derivatives, flavonoids, lignans, terpenoids, etc., have been obtained from Pleione. These compounds have been demonstrated to play a significant role in anti-tumor, anti-neurodegenerative and anti-inflammatory biological activities and improve immunity. In order to further develop the drugs and utilize the plants, the chemical structural analysis and biological activities of Pleione are summarized in this review.
Alcohol-Supported Cu-Mediated 18F-Fluorination of Iodonium Salts under “Minimalist” Conditions
Authors: Orlovskaya Victoriya V. , Modemann Daniel J. , Kuznetsova Olga F. , Fedorova Olga S. , Urusova Elizaveta A. , Kolks Niklas , Neumaier Bernd , Krasikova Raisa N. , Zlatopolskiy Boris D.
Published: September 2019

In the era of personalized precision medicine, positron emission tomography (PET) and related hybrid methods like PET/CT and PET/MRI gain recognition as indispensable tools of clinical diagnostics. A broader implementation of these imaging modalities in clinical routine is closely dependent on the increased availability of established and emerging PET-tracers, which in turn could be accessible by the development of simple, reliable, and efficient radiolabeling procedures. A further requirement is a cGMP production of imaging probes in automated synthesis modules. Herein, a novel protocol for the efficient preparation of 18F-labeled aromatics via Cu-mediated radiofluorination of (aryl)(mesityl)iodonium salts without the need of evaporation steps is described. Labeled aromatics were prepared in high radiochemical yields simply by heating of iodonium [18F]fluorides with the Cu-mediator in methanolic DMF. The iodonium [18F]fluorides were prepared by direct elution of 18F− from an anion exchange resin with solutions of the corresponding precursors in MeOH/DMF. The practicality of the novel method was confirmed by the racemization-free production of radiolabeled fluorophenylalanines, including hitherto unknown 3-[18F]FPhe, in 22–69% isolated radiochemical yields as well as its direct implementation into a remote-controlled synthesis unit.
Preparative Purification of Total Flavonoids from Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep. by Macroporous Resin Column Chromatography and Comparative Analysis of Flavonoid Profiles by HPLC-PAD
Authors: Hou Mengyang , Hu Wenzhong , Xiu Zhilong , Jiang Aili , Men Lei , Hao Kexin , Sun Xingsheng , Cao Duo
Published: September 2019

For the full development and utilization of Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep., this study was primarily intended to established a simple and efficient approach for the preparative purification of total flavonoids from S. tonkinensis by macroporous resin column chromatography (MRCC). The adsorption and desorption characteristics of the total flavonoids on ten macroporous resins were first studied, and AB-8 resin was chosen as the most suitable, and the adsorption data were best fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and Langmuir isotherm model. Furthermore, the technological parameters for the purification of the total flavonoids were optimized using column chromatography. After a sample one-step purification procedure, the content of the total flavonoids increased by about 4.76-fold from 12.14% to 57.82%, with a recovery yield of 84.93%. In addition, the comparative analysis of the flavonoid extracts before and after purification was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode-array detection (HPLC-PAD). The results showed that the contents of six major flavonoids in the purified product were all higher than before the purification. Therefore, the AB-8 MRCC established in this work was a promising method for the industrial-scale purification of the total flavonoids from S. tonkinensis.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils from the Aerial Parts of Pinus eldarica Grown in Northwestern Iran
Authors: Ghaffari Tayyebeh , Kafil Hossein Samadi , Asnaashari Solmaz , Farajnia Safar , Delazar Abbas , Baek Su Cheol , Hamishehkar Hamed , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: September 2019

Pinus eldarica (Pinaceae), an evergreen plant, is distributed across the warm and dry climates of western Asia, including Asia Minor, the Middle East, and land surrounding the Caspian Sea. Essential oils (EOs) from different aerial parts of this tree have been used in traditional medicine. We aimed to investigate the chemical profile and antimicrobial activity of the EO from P. eldarica grown in northwestern Iran. EO from the needles, bark, and pollen were extracted with boiling water using a Clevenger apparatus at yield of 0.7–1.2 cm3/100 g of dry plant material. The main chemical components of the EO from the needles were D-germacrene (18.17%), caryophyllene (15.42%), γ-terpinene (12.96%), and β-pinene (10.62%); those from the bark were limonene (16.99%), caryophyllene oxide (13.22%), and drimenol (13.2%); and those from the pollen were α-pinene (25.64%) and limonene (19.94%). In total, 83 constituents were characterized in the EOs, using gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis; mainly, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons in needle EO and monoterpene hydrocarbons in pollen and bark EOs. β-Pinene, β-myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene were identified in the EOs from all three plant parts. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of the EOs were examined: pollen EO exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli; bark EO inhibited the growth of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus; and the needle EO inhibited the growth of S. aureus. Thus, the EOs from aerial parts of P. eldarica can benefit the EO industry and antibiotic development.
A Reversible Phase Transition of 2D Coordination Layers by B–H∙∙∙Cu(II) Interactions in a Coordination Polymer
Authors: Gan Lei , Fonquernie Pol G. , Light Mark E. , Norjmaa Gantulga , Ujaque Gregori , Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane , Fraile Julio , Teixidor Francesc , Viñas Clara , Planas José G.
Published: September 2019

Materials that combine flexibility and open metal sites are crucial for myriad applications. In this article, we report a 2D coordination polymer (CP) assembled from CuII ions and a flexible meta-carborane-based linker [Cu2(L1)2(Solv)2]•xSolv (1-DMA, 1-DMF, and 1-MeOH; L1: 1,7-di(4-carboxyphenyl)-1,7-dicarba-closo-dodecaborane). 1-DMF undergoes an unusual example of reversible phase transition on solvent treatment (i.e., MeOH and CH2Cl2). Solvent exchange, followed by thermal activation provided a new porous phase that exhibits an estimated Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of 301 m2 g−1 and is capable of a CO2 uptake of 41 cm3 g−1. The transformation is reversible and 1-DMF is reformed on addition of DMF to the porous phase. We provide evidence for the reversible process being the result of the formation/cleavage of weak but attractive B–H∙∙∙Cu interactions by a combination of single-crystal (SCXRD), powder (PXRD) X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and DFT calculations.
Asymmetric and Reduced Xanthene Fluorophores: Synthesis, Photochemical Properties, and Application to Activatable Fluorescent Probes for Detection of Nitroreductase
Authors: More Kunal N. , Lim Tae-Hwan , Kang Julie , Yun Hwayoung , Yee Sung-Tae , Chang Dong-Jo
Published: September 2019

Xanthene fluorophores, including fluorescein, rhodol, and rhodamines, are representative classes of fluorescent probes that have been applied in the detection and visualization of biomolecules. “Turn on” activatable fluorescent probes, that can be turned on in response to enzymatic reactions, have been developed and prepared to reduce the high background signal of “always-on” fluorescent probes. However, the development of activity-based fluorescent probes for biological applications, using simple xanthene dyes, is hampered by their inefficient synthetic methods and the difficulty of chemical modifications. We have, thus, developed a highly efficient, versatile synthetic route to developing chemically more stable reduced xanthene fluorophores, based on fluorescein, rhodol, and rhodamine via continuous Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling. Their fluorescent nature was evaluated by monitoring fluorescence with variation in the concentration, pH, and solvent. As an application to activatable fluorescent probe, nitroreductase (NTR)-responsive fluorescent probes were also developed using the reduced xanthene fluorophores, and their fluorogenic properties were evaluated.
Superior Hydrogen Sensing Property of Porous NiO/SnO2 Nanofibers Synthesized via Carbonization
Authors: Liu Hongcheng , Wang Feipeng , Hu Kelin , Zhang Bin , He Li , Zhou Qu
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the porous NiO/SnO2 nanofibers were synthesized via the electrospinning method along with the carbonization process. The characterization results show that the pristine SnO2-based nanofibers can form porous structure with different grain size by carbonization. The hydrogen gas-sensing investigations indicate that the NiO/SnO2 sensor exhibits more prominent sensing properties than those of pure SnO2 sensor devices. Such enhanced performance is mainly attributed to the porous nanostructure, which can provide large active adsorption sites for surface reaction. Moreover, the existence of p-n heterojunctions between NiO and SnO2 also plays a key role in enhancing gas-sensing performances. Finally, the H2 sensing mechanism based on the NiO/SnO2 nanocomposite was proposed for developing high-performance gas sensor devices.
Fabrication of ZnO@Ag3PO4 Core-Shell Nanocomposite Arrays as Photoanodes and Their Photoelectric Properties
Authors: Yi Zao , Li Xin , Wu Hui , Chen Xifang , Yang Hua , Tang Yongjian , Yi Yougen , Wang Junqiao , Wu Pinghui
Published: September 2019

In this study, we combine the methods of magnetron sputtering, hydrothermal growth, and stepwise deposition to prepare novel ZnO@Ag3PO4 core-shell nanocomposite arrays structure. Through scanning electron microscope (SEM) topography test, energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) element test and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) component test, we characterize the morphology, element distribution and structural characteristics of ZnO@Ag3PO4 core-shell nanocomposite arrays structure. At the same time, we test the samples for light reflectance, hydrophilicity and photoelectric performance. We find that after deposition of Ag3PO4 on ZnO nanorods, light reflectance decreases. As the time of depositions increases, light reflectance gradually decreases. After the deposition of Ag3PO4, the surface of the sample shows super hydrophilicity, which is beneficial for the photoelectric performance test. Through the optical transient response test, we find that the photo-generated current reaches a maximum when a small amount of Ag3PO4 is deposited. As the time of depositions of Ag3PO4 increases, the photogenerated current gradually decreases. Finally, we conducted an alternating current (AC) impedance test and also verified the correctness of the photocurrent test. Therefore, the structure is expected to be prepared into a photoanode for use in fields such as solar cells.
Dietary Fatty Acids and Host–Microbial Crosstalk in Neonatal Enteric Infection
Authors: Quin Candice , Gibson Deanna L.
Published: September 2019

Human milk is the best nutritional choice for infants. However, in instances where breastfeeding is not possible, infant formulas are used as alternatives. While formula manufacturers attempt to mimic the performance of human breast milk, formula-fed babies consistently have higher incidences of infection from diarrheal diseases than those breastfed. Differences in disease susceptibility, progression and severity can be attributed, in part, to nutritional fatty acid differences between breast milk and formula. Despite advances in our understanding of breast milk properties, formulas still present major differences in their fatty acid composition when compared to human breast milk. In this review, we highlight the role of distinct types of dietary fatty acids in modulating host inflammation, both directly and through the microbiome-immune nexus. We present evidence that dietary fatty acids influence enteric disease susceptibility and therefore, altering the fatty acid composition in formula may be a potential strategy to improve infectious outcomes in formula-fed infants.
Whey Protein Combined with Low Dietary Fiber Improves Lipid Profile in Subjects with Abdominal Obesity: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Rakvaag Elin , Fuglsang-Nielsen Rasmus , Bach Knudsen Knud Erik , Landberg Rikard , Johannesson Hjelholt Astrid , Søndergaard Esben , Hermansen Kjeld , Gregersen Søren
Published: September 2019

Abdominal obesity is associated with elevated postprandial triglycerides (TG), an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies show that whey protein (WP) and dietary fiber may separately reduce postprandial TG. However, few studies have investigated the long-term effects of WP and dietary fiber on postprandial TG. We aimed to investigate the separate and combined long-term effects of WP and dietary fiber from wheat bran on postprandial TG and markers of lipid metabolism in subjects with abdominal obesity. We conducted a 12-week, double-blind, randomized, controlled, parallel intervention study. In a 2 × 2 factorial design, 73 adults were randomized to receive 60 g/day of either WP hydrolysate or maltodextrin (MD) combined with high-fiber wheat bran products (HiFi; 30 g dietary fiber/day) or low-fiber refined wheat products (LoFi; 10 g dietary fiber/day). A high-fat meal test was conducted before and after the intervention. Sixty-five subjects were included in the final analyses. There were no differences between intervention groups in postprandial TG assessed as incremental area under the curve (iAUC). WP-LoFi had reduced postprandial TG assessed as total area under the curve (tAUC) and reduced fasting TG compared with all other groups, and reduced fasting apolipoprotein B-48 compared with MD-LoFi. There were no changes in lipoprotein lipase activity. Total cholesterol and apolipoprotein B-100 were reduced after WP intake compared with MD. Total cholesterol was increased after HiFi intake compared with LoFi. In conclusion, intake of WP in combination with low-fiber cereal products for 12 weeks had beneficial effects on postprandial TG tAUC and fasting TG, but not on postprandial TG iAUC in subjects with abdominal obesity. Combining WP with high-fiber wheat bran products did not improve lipid profile.
Rapid Processing of Abandoned Oil Palm Trunks into Sugars and Organic Acids by Sub-Critical Water
Authors: Ishak Hazwani , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Muda Noor Azura , Ismail Mohd Halim Shah , Izhar Shamsul
Published: September 2019

Abandoned oil palm trunk (OPT) is among the most abundant left-over biomass in Malaysia and is allowed to decompose naturally in the field. However, the recycling of OPT is less considered although OPT is a bioresource that has a high potential for conversion into value-added products. In this study, waste OPT was rapidly converted by hydrolysis using subcritical water (sub-CW). This work is the first attempt to explore the utilization of waste OPT based on the differences in moisture, cellulose and hemicellulose contents in the top and bottom segments, and from various ages of the waste OPT. 21- and 35-year-old OPTs were divided into top and bottom sections. The OPTs was subjected to sub-CW at a heating rate of 3.8 °C/s at various temperatures and times. The 21-year-old OPT was superior to the 35-year-old OPT for conversion into sugar and organic acid. The yield of the total sugar was between 0.41 and 0.77 kg/kg-OPT in the bottom and top sections. The excellent correlation between the sugar yield and sub-CW ion product (Kw) signified that the sub-CW facilitated the hydrolysis of hemicellulose and cellulose in the OPT. In the bottom segment, fructose had a higher yield, while in the top part glucose was dominant. Sugar degradation from the sub-CW treatment of OPT produced 0.2 kg/kg-OPT organic acids. The treatment of OPT using sub-CW showed promising results in producing sugars and organic acids.
Between the Center and the Margins: Young Catholics, “Sorta-Catholics,” and Baptismal Identity
Authors: Beaton Rhodora
Published: September 2019

Increased pastoral and theological attention to the vocational implications of baptism is sorely needed. As a small contribution to this conversation, this article will examine the insights of young Catholics and their self-described “former Catholic” peers (ages 15–29) regarding key aspects of the Christian life. These insights offer a foundation for evolving understandings of baptismal identity at both the center and the margins of the church. Two recent efforts to formally solicit the opinions of young people will be examined. They are the Pre-Synodal preparations for the 2018 Synod on Young People and the recent study, published by Saint Mary’s Press in collaboration with the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) under the title Going, Going Gone: The Dynamics of Disaffiliation in Young Catholics. The responses from these young people, placed in conversation with recent theological work on baptism and the lay vocation, offer possibilities for consideration as Catholics ponder the changing demographics of the Church. The conclusion will argue for the urgent necessity of listening to these voices and will suggest that a mystagogical approach offers one helpful path towards a deeper understanding and practice of the baptismal vocation.