bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiant recuperator modelling and design
Authors: Knezevic Suzana , Karamarkovic Rade , Karamarkovic Vladan , Stojic Nenad
Published: September 2016

Recuperators are frequently used in glass production and metallurgical processes to preheat combustion air by heat exchange with high temperature flue gases. Mass and energy balances of a 15 m high, concurrent radiant recuperator used in a glass fiber production process are given. The balances are used: for validation of a cell modeling method that predicts the performance of different recuperator designs, and for finding a simple solution to improve the existing recuperator. Three possible solutions are analyzed: to use the existing recuperator as a countercurrent one, to add an extra cylinder over the existing construction, and to make a system that consists of a central pipe and two concentric annular ducts. In the latter, two air streams flow in opposite directions, whereas air in the inner annular passage flows concurrently or countercurrently to flue gases. Compared with the concurrent recuperator, the countercurrent has only one drawback: the interface temperature is higher at the bottom. The advantages are: lower interface temperature at the top where the material is under maximal load, higher efficiency, and smaller pressure drop. Both concurrent and countercurrent double pipe-in-pipe systems are only slightly more efficient than pure concurrent and countercurrent recuperators, respectively. Their advantages are smaller interface temperatures whereas the disadvantages are their costs and pressure drops. To implement these solutions, the average velocities should be: for flue gas around 5 m/s, for air in the first passage less than 2 m/s, and for air in the second passage more than 25 m/s.
The effects of gear shift indicator usage on fuel efficiency of a motor vehicle
Authors: Blagojevic Ivan , Vorotovic Goran , Stamenkovic Dragan , Petrovic Nebojsa , Rakicevic Branislav
Published: September 2016

The manner of gear shifting is one of the main factors affecting the fuel efficiency of motor vehicles. Potential savings resulted from optimized gear shifting led to introduction of gear shift indicators in passenger vehicles as an obligation from year 2012. The effects of gear shift indicators usage are still not studied enough. That was the motive for the authors to conduct the experiments to justify their usage, both from the economic and ecological standpoint. The presented results come from the tests conducted on FIAT 500L vehicle to determine the fuel consumption using the new European driving cycle, but for three different gear shift patterns: (1) as defined in UNECE Regulation No. 83, (2) as indicated by vehicle?s gear shift indicator, and (3) based on the average vehicle speed values collected from gear shift indicators of 35 passenger vehicles of different makes, types, and characteristics. Maximum difference in fuel consumption recorded in tests done using three different gear shift patterns is 18.7%.
Enhanced GLUT4-Dependent Glucose Transport Relieves Nutrient Stress in Obese Mice Through Changes in Lipid and Amino Acid Metabolism
Authors: Gurley Jami M. , Ilkayeva Olga , Jackson Robert M. , Griesel Beth A. , White Phillip , Matsuzaki Satochi , Qaisar Rizwan , Van Remmen Holly , Humphries Kenneth M. , Newgard Christopher B. , Olson Ann Louise
Published: September 2016

Impaired GLUT4-dependent glucose uptake is a contributing factor in the development of whole-body insulin resistance in obese patients and obese animal models. Previously, we demonstrated that transgenic mice engineered to express the human GLUT4 gene under the control of the human GLUT4 promoter (i.e., transgenic [TG] mice) are resistant to obesity-induced insulin resistance. A likely mechanism underlying increased insulin sensitivity is increased glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. The purpose of this study was to investigate the broader metabolic consequences of enhanced glucose uptake into muscle. We observed that the expression of several nuclear and mitochondrially encoded mitochondrial enzymes was decreased in TG mice but that mitochondrial number, size, and fatty acid respiration rates were unchanged. Interestingly, both pyruvate and glutamate respiration rates were decreased in TG mice. Metabolomics analyses of skeletal muscle samples revealed that increased GLUT4 transgene expression was associated with decreased levels of some tricarboxylic acid intermediates and amino acids, whereas the levels of several glucogenic amino acids were elevated. Furthermore, fasting acyl carnitines in obese TG mice were decreased, indicating that increased GLUT4-dependent glucose flux decreases nutrient stress by altering lipid and amino acid metabolism in skeletal muscle.
Laser wavelength and dose effects on Al nanoparticles structural formation in deionized water
Authors: Dehghanpour H. R.
Published: September 2016

In this work, Al nanoparticles are generated using Q switched pulsed Nd:yttrium aluminum garnet laser (1064 and 532 nm) ablation in a water confined plasma at 3, 5, and 10 min exposure times. The aim is to investigate the wavelength and exposure time dependence of nanoparticle formation mechanisms. Nanoparticles fabricated by both wavelengths show spherical morphology. The nanoparticles are characterized by transmission electron microscopy and selected area electron diffraction. The nanoparticles are in the crystalline form as bulk Al. Obviously, the chemical composition of the nanoparticle's surface must be Al2O3 because of the water medium.

At the request of the Editor and AIP Publishing, this article is being retracted effective 11 March 2020.
Is There a Need of Harmonization of Postgraduate Dermatology Curriculum in Nepal?
Authors: Agrawal S.
Published: September 2016

Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology, Vol.14(1) 2016, pp.2-4
Dermatoses in Himalayas: Pattern of Skin Diseases in Himalayan Region of Nepal
Authors: Poudyal A.K. , Paudel U. , Khadka R. , Sharma S. , Pokhrel K , Das A.K. , Parajuli S.
Published: September 2016

Background: Skin diseases are the major cause of out-patient visit in Nepal. Department of Health Services, Nepal ranks skin diseases as fourth common cause of out-patient visit throughout the country. The objective of the study was to determine the pattern of different skin diseases in Himalayan region of Nepal.Material and methods: A cross sectional descriptive study design was conducted in a health camp setting in which 148 community people visited the camp with dermatological diseases. Information about socio-demographic and dermatological diseases were collected with a structured performa.Results: The most common primary diagnosis was pigmentary anomaly (20.3%) followed by Eczemas (18.9%), Superficial mycoses (10.8%), and acne (10.1%). In all skin diseases male were more affected as compared to female.Conclusions: The dermatoses of Himalayan region are pigmentary anomalies being most common, followed by eczemas, superficial mycoses, acne, photodermatoses, scabies, urticaria, benign tumours and pyodermas.Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology, Vol.14(1) 2016, pp.25-28
Methotrexate Versus Methotrexate Plus Folic Acid in the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis: A Randomized Clinical-Trial
Authors: Khadka D.K. , Agrawal S. , Dhali T.K.
Published: September 2016

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, recurring inflammatory disease affecting the skin, joints and nails that has a significant negative impact on the quality of life. Efficacy of methotrexate versus combination of methotrexate plus folic acid in the treatment of psoriasis has been rarely assessed.Objectives: To compare the efficacy of methotrexate versus methotrexate plus folic acid in the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasisMaterial and Methods: Eighty patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis were randomized to receive either methotrexate (group A) or methotrexate plus folic acid (group B). End point of treatment was 75% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) score or upto 3 months, whichever was earlier. Patients were then followed up for a period of 12 weeks for assessment of relapse, DLQI and adverse effects.Results: Of 80 patients, 71 completed the treatment and follow up period (33 in group A, and 38 in group B). PASI 75 was achieved in 34/40(85%) patients in group A and 32/40(80%) patients in group B (P < 0.142). There was statistically significant number of patients who had greater adverse effect in methotrexate than in methotrexate plus folic acid (p=0.020). There was significant difference in the number of patients who relapsed during the follow-up period (P = 0.013) with more relapse in group B.Conclusion: Combination of methotrexate and folic acid developed lesser adverse effect and greater relapse in comparison to methotrexate alone.Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology, Vol.14(1) 2016, pp.29-36
DLE Progressing to Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Karki S. , Jha A.K.
Published: September 2016

A 90 years female diagnosed as a case of Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) developed Squamous cell carcinoma from the lesions over a period of 5 years due to treatment gap and late follow up. Diagnosis was based on clinical aspects (erythematous, nodular and scanty bleeding), dermoscopic features and histopathological examination, the absence of systemic involvement and routine laboratory parameters, which registered all within normal range.SCC in a patient with DLE is rare in Nepalese patients. It is every essential to counsel the diagnosed cases of DLE and warn all patients about all the possible outcomes and compliance with medications should be ensured.Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology, Vol.14(1) 2016, pp.51-55
Analyzing the Spiritual Rhetoric of Kickstarter
Authors: Copeland Adam J.
Published: September 2016

This article considers the rhetoric of Kickstarter, a popular crowd-funding website. Using a modified “spiritual quest” theoretical framework, the project examines public statements and interviews from the Kickstarter co-founders, language from the site's “about” pages, and several specific Kickstarter projects. The article finds a certain spiritual rhetoric present on the website, a claim supported by evidence from three crowd-funding case studies.
Thou Shalt Kill … Carefully: Secular Religion, the Immanent Frame, and Showtime'sDexter
Authors: Pittman Matthew
Published: September 2016

This article uses the television series Dexter as a space to explore the practice of religion in a secular society. Employing critical discourse analysis, which focuses on the causal relationships between discursive practices or texts and sociocultural processes, we situate the habitual killing activity of protagonist Dexter Morgan in what Charles Taylor calls the “immanent frame.” By using the concepts of ritual provided by anthropologists Roy A. Rappaport and Victor Turner, Dexter demonstrates how individuals in a secular society can create a belief system without appealing to traditional transcendent beings or ideals. We conclude with implications for modern religious practice.
FromHoly GrailtoThe Lost Gospel: Margaret Starbird and Mary Magdalene Scholarship
Authors: Beavis Mary Ann
Published: September 2016

Although her work is little known to academics in Mary Magdalene studies, the writings of Margaret Starbird have been, and continue to be, very influential in informing popular understandings of Mary Magdalene, including her portrayal as Jesus's wife in The Da Vinci Code, and, most recently in Simcha Jacobovici and Barrie Wilson's The Lost Gospel: Decoding the Secret Text That Reveals Jesus' Marriage to Mary Magdalene. This article will trace the influence of Starbird's books on the Magdalene tradition since the publication of The Woman with the Alabaster Jar, particularly in shaping the modern legend of the romance between Mary Magdalene and Jesus. In addition, the article will evaluate Starbird's key claims and interpretations of the biblical and extra-biblical evidence, both appreciatively and critically, from the perspective of a professional biblical scholar and feminist theologian, on the understanding that, in view of Starbird's popularity, academic Mary Magdalene scholars would do well to be familiar with her work, some of her basic claims, and the religious and cultural reasons for her influence.
On Not Escaping Yourself: Jewish Conceptions of Memory, Time, and Redemption in Mad Men
Authors: Barter Jane
Published: September 2016

In this article, I explore the seven seasons of Mad Men for its religious content with special attention given to how Judaism is a constant undercurrent throughout the show. In particular, Matthew Weiner's exploration of memory and time draws on several Jewish theological themes that challenge linear and progressive notions of time's passing. The constellation of past, present, and future is most fully displayed in the hero of Mad Men, Don Draper's (John Hamm) narrative journey. Draper, in spite of his efforts to escape the past, is, in fact, shaped by complex and powerful memories that are always operative just beneath the surface of his struggles. His memories not only offer insight into his character, but they are fundamentally constitutive of his present identity, as past and present blend together. His present story likewise points to a future that is only partially revealed in Mad Men's finale. In this article, I hope to show how understanding Jewish conceptions of time and memory is also helpful in unpacking the show's enigmatic ending where, as I shall argue, Draper finds redemption through the ordering of time and memory.
Socialities of Nature Beyond Utopia
Authors: Parra Constanza , Walsh Casey
Published: September 2016

The articles in this section were written by social scientists from different parts of the world doing research on the complex relationship between human beings and the natural environment, and on the role of cultural ideals in shaping environmental history. The interdisciplinary character of the papers generates original insights about the socio-cultural dimensions of the environmental problematic, which have been neglected when compared with economic and political dimensions. This introduction reviews the contents of the proposed special symposium and situates the articles in relation to discussions about the social role of utopias, imagined and real.
Climate Cosmopolitics and the Possibilities for Urban Planning
Authors: Houston Donna , McCallum Diana , Steele Wendy , Byrne Jason
Published: September 2016

Cosmopolitical action in a climate-changed city represents different knowledges and practices that may seem disconnected but constellate to frame stories and spaces of a climate-just city. The question this article asks is: how might we as planners identify and develop counter-hegemonic praxes that enable us to re-imagine our experience of, and responses to, climate change? To explore this question, we draw on Isabelle Stengers’s (2010) idea of cosmopolitics—where diverse stories, perspectives, experiences, and practices can connect to create the foundation for new strategic possibilities. Our article is empirically informed by conversations with actors from three Australian cities (Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth) who are mobilizing different approaches to this ideal in various grassroots actions on climate change.
Whose Utopia? Our Utopia! Competing Visions of the Future at the UN Climate Talks
Authors: Widick Richard , Foran John
Published: September 2016

Social movements move and grow by autopoesis—by calling their prospective ranks to order using public pronouncements replete with consequential assumptions about the world as they see it. In the same way, governing bodies and vested economic interests stake out opposing public positions. In the wake of the crucial international climate negotiations in Paris, December 2015, at which the nations adopted the first truly universal climate treaty, we look back over five years of participatory ethnographic research inside the UN climate talks and the social movements for climate justice, identifying key lifeworld assumptions inscribed in the public position-taking of central economic, public, and political sphere actors. Our findings include grounds for skepticism that UN climate policy can transcend the power of the fossil fuel companies to attenuate both international ambitions and national contributions to the universal effort, but also an exciting possibility that climate justice philosophy and tactics, aided by bold counter-spectacle techniques from the Occupy movement, might return to the stage in the coming years and lead the necessary deep culture shift that decarbonization will require.
The Effects of Traditional and Electronic Word-of-Mouth on Destination Image: A Case of Vacation Tourists Visiting Branson, Missouri
Authors: Ishida Koji , Slevitch Lisa , Siamionava Katia
Published: September 2016

The effects of integrated word-of-mouth (WOM), both traditional and electronic, on tourism products are yet to be fully investigated. The current study aims to assess the effects of and differences between traditional WOM and electronic WOM, between personal WOM and commercial WOM, and between positive and negative WOM on a destination image. Results of the study indicate that traditional WOM had a greater influence on destination image compared to electronic WOM. Personal traditional WOM had a greater influence on destination image compared to electronic personal WOM and commercial WOM. However, negative WOM exerted less influence on the destination’s image compared to positive WOM while negative electronic WOM had a greater influence on destination image compared to negative traditional WOM.
Resistance to β-Lactams in Neisseria ssp Due to Chromosomally Encoded Penicillin-Binding Proteins
Authors: Zapun André , Morlot Cécile , Taha Muhamed-Kheir
Published: September 2016

Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are human pathogens that cause a variety of life-threatening systemic and local infections, such as meningitis or gonorrhoea. The treatment of such infection is becoming more difficult due to antibiotic resistance. The focus of this review is on the mechanism of reduced susceptibility to penicillin and other β-lactams due to the modification of chromosomally encoded penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), in particular PBP2 encoded by the penA gene. The variety of penA alleles and resulting variant PBP2 enzymes is described and the important amino acid substitutions are presented and discussed in a structural context.
Formation of a Colloidal CdSe and ZnSe Quantum Dots via a Gamma Radiolytic Technique
Authors: Salem Aeshah , Saion Elias , Al-Hada Naif , Shaari Abdul , Kamari Halimah , Soltani Nayereh , Radiman Shahidan
Published: September 2016

Colloidal cadmium selenide (CdSe) and zinc selenide (ZnSe) quantum dots with a hexagonal structure were synthesized by irradiating an aqueous solution containing metal precursors, poly (vinyl pyrrolidone), isopropyl alcohol, and organic solvents with 1.25-MeV gamma rays at a dose of 120 kGy. The radiolytic processes occurring in water result in the nucleation of particles, which leads to the growth of the quantum dots. The physical properties of the CdSe and ZnSe nanoparticles were measured by various characterization techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to confirm the nanocrystalline structure, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was used to estimate the material composition of the samples, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to determine the morphologies and average particle size distribution, and UV-visible spectroscopy was used to measure the optical absorption spectra, from which the band gap of the CdSe and ZnSe nanoparticles could be deduced.
Image Processing and Cell Phone Microscopy to Analyze the Immunomagnetic Beads on Micro-Contact Printed Gratings
Authors: İçöz Kutay
Published: September 2016

In this paper we report an ultra-low-cost spherical ball lens based cell phone microscopy and image processing algorithms to analyze the amount of immunomagnetic beads on micro-contact printed gratings. The spherical ball lens provides approximately 100× magnification but the recorded images are not clear and are noisy. By using the image-processing algorithms, the noise can be reduced and the images can be enhanced to quantify the amount of immunomagnetic beads on micro-contact printed lines. This method, which is portable and low-cost, can be an alternative read out mechanism for biosensing applications using immunomagnetic beads on micro-contact printed surface receptors. Further, 0.0335 mg/mL was the lowest magnetic bead concentration that could be detected above the inherent noise level of the spherical ball lens.
Biosensing with Paper-Based Miniaturized Printed Electrodes–A Modern Trend
Authors: Silveira Célia , Monteiro Tiago , Almeida Maria
Published: September 2016

From the bench-mark work on microfluidics from the Whitesides’s group in 2007, paper technology has experienced significant growth, particularly regarding applications in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics. Besides the structural properties supporting microfluidics, other advantageous features of paper materials, including their versatility, disposability and low cost, show off the great potential for the development of advanced and eco-friendly analytical tools. Consequently, paper was quickly employed in the field of electrochemical sensors, being an ideal material for producing custom, tailored and miniaturized devices. Stencil-, inkjet-, or screen-printing are the preferential techniques for electrode manufacturing. Not surprisingly, we witnessed a rapid increase in the number of publications on paper based screen-printed sensors at the turn of the past decade. Among the sensing strategies, various biosensors, coupling electrochemical detectors with biomolecules, have been proposed. This work provides a critical review and a discussion on the future progress of paper technology in the context of miniaturized printed electrochemical biosensors.
Prenatal Ethanol Exposure and Whisker Clipping Disrupt Ultrasonic Vocalizations and Play Behavior in Adolescent Rats
Authors: Waddell Jaylyn , Yang Tianqi , Ho Eric , Wellmann Kristen , Mooney Sandra
Published: September 2016

Prenatal ethanol exposure can result in social deficits in humans and animals, including altered social interaction and poor communication. Rats exposed to ethanol prenatally show reduced play fighting, and a combination of prenatal ethanol exposure and neonatal whisker clipping further reduces play fighting compared with ethanol exposure alone. In this study, we explored whether expression of hedonic ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) correlated with the number of playful attacks by ethanol-exposed rats, rats subjected to postnatal sensory deprivation by whisker clipping or both compared to control animals. In normally developing rats, hedonic USVs precede such interactions and correlate with the number of play interactions exhibited in dyads. Pregnant Long-Evans rats were fed an ethanol-containing liquid diet or a control diet. After birth, male and female pups from each litter were randomly assigned to the whisker-clipped or non-whisker-clipped condition. Animals underwent a social interaction test with a normally developing play partner during early or late-adolescence. USVs were recorded during play. Prenatal ethanol exposure reduced both play and hedonic USVs in early adolescence compared to control rats and persistently reduced social play. Interestingly, ethanol exposure, whisker clipping and the combination abolished the significant correlation between hedonic USVs and social play detected in control rats in early adolescence. This relationship remained disrupted in late adolescence only in rats subjected to both prenatal ethanol and whisker clipping. Thus, both insults more persistently disrupted the relationship between social communication and social play.
Experimental Study of the Feasibility of Air Flooding in an Ultra-Low Permeability Reservoir
Authors: Qu Guohui , Meng Yuanlin , Shen Anqi , Guo Yuxin , Liu Yikun , Tao Yonghang
Published: September 2016

The development effect of water flooding in an ultra-low permeability reservoir is poor due to its poor physical properties and high shale content, so an experimental study of air flooding which helps to complement energy production was carried out. Based on the Accelerating Rate Calorimeter experimental results, the crude oil of N block in L oilfield can undergo low-temperature oxidation reactions, which are the basic condition for air flooding. Three groups of experimental natural cylinder cores designed for oil displacement, water flooding and air flooding were used respectively, and the relationship between differential pressure, oil recovery, injection capacity with injection volume was investigated. It is observed that the recovery efficiency increased 2.58%, the injection-production pressure difference dropped 60% and the injection capability increased 60% in the experiment of shifting air flooding after water flooding to 75% moisture content, compared with water flooding alone. It has been shown in the results that the recovery efficiency improved sharply more than water flooding, the effect of depressurization and augmented injection was obvious, and the air displacement was thus validated. We suggest that other science and technology workers should perform further tests and verify this result through numerical simulation.
Plasma Glow Discharge as a Tool for Surface Modification of Catalytic Solid Oxides: A Case Study of La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ Perovskite
Authors: Zhang Yanxiang , Ma Jingbo , Li Mei , Chen Yu , Yan Mufu , Xia Changrong
Published: September 2016

Performance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) is hindered by the sluggish catalytic kinetics on the surfaces of cathode materials. It has recently been reported that improved electrochemical activity of perovskite oxides can be obtained with the cations or the oxides of some metallic elements at the surface. Here, we used a cost-effective plasma glow charge method as a generic tool to deposit nano-size metallic particles onto the surface of SOFC materials. Ni nano-scale patterns were successfully coated on the La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF) surface. The microstructure could be well controlled. The kinetics of oxygen exchange on the modified LSCF surface was promoted significantly, confirmed by electrical conductivity relaxation (ECR) measurement.
Effects of Temporal and Interspecific Variation of Specific Leaf Area on Leaf Area Index Estimation of Temperate Broadleaved Forests in Korea
Authors: Kwon Boram , Kim Hyun , Jeon Jihyeon , Yi Myong
Published: September 2016

This study investigated the effects of interspecific and temporal variation of specific leaf area (SLA, cm2·g−1) on leaf area index (LAI) estimation for three deciduous broadleaved forests (Gwangneung (GN), Taehwa (TH), and Gariwang (GRW)) in Korea with varying ages and composition of tree species. In fall of 2014, fallen leaves were periodically collected using litter traps and classified by species. LAI was estimated by obtaining SLAs using four calculation methods (A: including both interspecific and temporal variation in SLA; B: species specific mean SLA; C: period-specific mean SLA; and D: overall mean), then multiplying the SLAs by the amount of leaves. SLA varied across different species in all plots, and SLAs of upper canopy species were less than those of lower canopy species. The LAIs calculated using method A, the reference method, were GN 6.09, TH 5.42, and GRW 4.33. LAIs calculated using method B showed a difference of up to 3% from the LAI of method A, but LAIs calculated using methods C and D were overestimated. Therefore, species specific SLA must be considered for precise LAI estimation for broadleaved forests that include multiple species.
Neutrality Versus Materiality: A Thermodynamic Theory of Neutral Surfaces
Authors: Tailleux Rémi
Published: September 2016

In this paper, a theory for constructing quasi-neutral density variables γ directly in thermodynamic space is formulated, which is based on minimising the absolute value of a purely thermodynamic quantity J n . Physically, J n has a dual dynamic/thermodynamic interpretation as the quantity controlling the energy cost of adiabatic and isohaline parcel exchanges on material surfaces, as well as the dependence of in-situ density on spiciness, in a description of water masses based on γ, spiciness and pressure. Mathematically, minimising | J n | in thermodynamic space is showed to be equivalent to maximising neutrality in physical space. The physics of epineutral dispersion is also reviewed and discussed. It is argued, in particular, that epineutral dispersion is best understood as the aggregate effect of many individual non-neutral stirring events (being understood here as adiabatic and isohaline events with non-zero buoyancy), so that it is only the net displacement aggregated over many events that is approximately neutral. This new view resolves an apparent paradox between the focus in neutral density theory on zero-buoyancy motions and the overwhelming evidence that lateral dispersion in the ocean is primarily caused by non-zero buoyancy processes such as tides, residual currents and sheared internal waves. The efficiency by which a physical process contributes to lateral dispersion can be characterised by its energy signature, with those processes releasing available potential energy (negative energy cost) being more efficient than purely neutral processes with zero energy cost. The latter mechanism occurs in the wedge of instability, and its source of energy is the coupling between baroclinicity, thermobaricity, and density compensated temperature/salinity anomalies. Such a mechanism, which can only exist in a salty ocean, is speculated to be important for dissipating spiciness anomalies and neutral helicity. The paper also discusses potential conceptual difficulties with the use of neutral rotated diffusion tensors in numerical ocean models, as well as with the construction of neutral density variables in physical space. It also emphasises the irreducible character of thermobaric forces in the ocean. These are argued to be the cause for adiabatic thermobaric dianeutral dispersion, and to forbid the existence of density surfaces along which fluid parcels can be exchanged without experiencing buoyancy forces, in contrast to what is assumed in the theory of neutral surfaces.
Patterns of Psychiatric Outpatient Practice in Taiwan: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Dai Ying-Xiu , Chen Mu-Hong , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Lin Ming-Hwai
Published: September 2016

(1) Background: Limited studies have utilized nationwide data to assess the patterns of psychiatric practice in other countries. In this study, data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan (NHIRD-TW) for 2012 was analyzed to determine the patterns of psychiatric outpatient practice in Taiwan; (2) Methods: To determine the patterns of psychiatric outpatient practice in Taiwan, the data were drawn from the datasets of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database for 2012, with 619,760 records of outpatient visits representing 1/500 of all the claims in Taiwan for that year. The analysis of psychiatric outpatient visits included patient demographics, diagnoses, and prescribed medications; (3) Results: Neurotic disorders were the most prevalent diagnoses (43.1%, n = 5714). Hypnotics-sedatives and anxiolytics were prescribed in 51.7% (n = 6850) and 39.1% (n = 5181) of psychiatric visits, respectively, with zolpidem being the most commonly prescribed drug (22.6%, n = 2998); and (4) Conclusion: Hypnotics and sedatives were widely prescribed for the outpatient population, and zolpidem had the highest annual prevalence of use. These findings deserve the attention of clinicians and policy makers for monitoring the abuse and dependence of these agents and subsequent adverse events.
Understanding Spatiotemporal Patterns of Human Convergence and Divergence Using Mobile Phone Location Data
Authors: Yang Xiping , Fang Zhixiang , Xu Yang , Shaw Shih-Lung , Zhao Zhiyuan , Yin Ling , Zhang Tao , Lin Yunong
Published: September 2016

Investigating human mobility patterns can help researchers and agencies understand the driving forces of human movement, with potential benefits for urban planning and traffic management. Recent advances in location-aware technologies have provided many new data sources (e.g., mobile phone and social media data) for studying human space-time behavioral regularity. Although existing studies have utilized these new datasets to characterize human mobility patterns from various aspects, such as predicting human mobility and monitoring urban dynamics, few studies have focused on human convergence and divergence patterns within a city. This study aims to explore human spatial convergence and divergence and their evolutions over time using large-scale mobile phone location data. Using a dataset from Shenzhen, China, we developed a method to identify spatiotemporal patterns of human convergence and divergence. Eight distinct patterns were extracted, and the spatial distributions of these patterns are discussed in the context of urban functional regions. Thus, this study investigates urban human convergence and divergence patterns and their relationships with the urban functional environment, which is helpful for urban policy development, urban planning and traffic management.
Optical and Piezoelectric Study of KNN Solid Solutions Co-Doped with La-Mn and Eu-Fe
Authors: Peña-Jiménez Jesús-Alejandro , González Federico , López-Juárez Rigoberto , Hernández-Alcántara José-Manuel , Camarillo Enrique , Murrieta-Sánchez Héctor , Pardo Lorena , Villafuerte-Castrejón María-Elena
Published: September 2016

The solid-state method was used to synthesize single phase potassium-sodium niobate (KNN) co-doped with the La3+–Mn4+ and Eu3+–Fe3+ ion pairs. Structural determination of all studied solid solutions was accomplished by XRD and Rietveld refinement method. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies were performed to determine the oxidation state of paramagnetic centers. Optical spectroscopy measurements, excitation, emission and decay lifetime were carried out for each solid solution. The present study reveals that doping KNN with La3+–Mn4+ and Eu3+–Fe3+ at concentrations of 0.5 mol % and 1 mol %, respectively, improves the ferroelectric and piezoelectric behavior and induce the generation of optical properties in the material for potential applications.
Novel Spray Dried Glycerol 2-Phosphate Cross-Linked Chitosan Microparticulate Vaginal Delivery System—Development, Characterization and Cytotoxicity Studies
Authors: Szymańska Emilia , Szekalska Marta , Czarnomysy Robert , Lavrič Zoran , Srčič Stane , Miltyk Wojciech , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: September 2016

Chitosan microparticulate delivery systems containing clotrimazole were prepared by a spray drying technique using glycerol 2-phosphate as an ion cross-linker. The impact of a cross-linking ratio on microparticle characteristics was evaluated. Drug-free and drug-loaded unmodified or ion cross-linked chitosan microparticles were examined for the in vitro cytotoxicity in VK2/E6E7 human vaginal epithelial cells. The presence of glycerol 2-phosphate influenced drug loading and encapsulation efficacy in chitosan microparticles. By increasing the cross-linking ratio, the microparticles with lower diameter, moisture content and smoother surface were observed. Mucoadhesive studies displayed that all formulations possessed mucoadhesive properties. The in vitro release profile of clotrimazole was found to alter considerably by changing the glycerol 2-phosphate/chitosan ratio. Results from cytotoxicity studies showed occurrence of apoptotic cells in the presence of chitosan and ion cross-linked chitosan microparticles, followed by a loss of membrane potential suggesting that cell death might go through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.
Palladium-Catalyzed Allylation/Benzylation of H-Phosphinate Esters with Alcohols
Authors: Fers-Lidou Anthony , Berger Olivier , Montchamp Jean-Luc
Published: September 2016

The Pd-catalyzed direct alkylation of H-phosphinic acids and hypophosphorous acid with allylic/benzylic alcohols has been described previously. Here, the extension of this methodology to H-phosphinate esters is presented. The new reaction appears general, although its scope is narrower than with the acids, and its mechanism is likely different. Various alcohols are examined in their reaction with phosphinylidene compounds R1R2P(O)H.
Constituents of Cryptotaenia japonica Inhibit Melanogenesis via CREB- and MAPK-Associated Signaling Pathways in Murine B16 Melanoma Cells
Authors: Seong Zuh-Kyung , Lee Sung-Yoon , Poudel Amrit , Oh Sei-Ryang , Lee Hyeong-Kyu
Published: September 2016

Melanin plays an important role in protecting the skin against ultraviolet light and is responsible for skin color. However, overproduction of melanin is related to several skin disorders, such as age spots, freckles, café au lait spots, Becker’s nevus and other hyperpigmentation syndromes. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of kaempferol-7-O-β-d-glucuronide (K7G) and tilianin, isolated from Cryptotaenia japonica, on melanogenesis and their mechanisms of action in murine B16 melanoma cells. The α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanin production was significantly inhibited by K7G and tilianin in a dose-dependent manner. The effects of these compounds on the signaling pathway of melanogenesis were examined. K7G and tilianin downregulated the expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and melanocyte-specific enzymes, i.e., tyrosinase and TRP1. These compounds also inhibited the phosphorylation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-response element binding protein (CREB) in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, these compounds increased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) but decreased the phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in B16 cells. Based on the above results, the anti-melanogenic effects of these compounds are caused by suppression of the MAPK signaling pathway through the down-regulation of α-MSH-induced CREB accumulation. This finding suggests that K7G and tilianin may be good candidates for further research to develop therapeutic agents for hyperpigmentation diseases.
Flavonoid Interaction with a Chitinase from Grape Berry Skin: Protein Identification and Modulation of the Enzymatic Activity
Authors: Filippi Antonio , Petrussa Elisa , Rajcevic Uros , Čurin Šerbec Vladka , Passamonti Sabina , Renzone Giovanni , Scaloni Andrea , Zancani Marco , Vianello Angelo , Braidot Enrico
Published: September 2016

In the present study, an antibody raised against a peptide sequence of rat bilitranslocase (anti-peptide Ab) was tested on microsomal proteins obtained from red grape berry skin. Previously, this antibody had demonstrated to recognize plant membrane proteins associated with flavonoid binding and transport. Immuno-proteomic assays identified a number of proteins reacting with this particular antibody, suggesting that the flavonoid binding and interaction may be extended not only to carriers of these molecules, but also to enzymes with very different functions. One of these proteins is a pathogenesis-related (PR) class IV chitinase, whose in vitro chitinolytic activity was modulated by two of the most representative flavonoids of grape, quercetin and catechin, as assessed by both spectrophotometric and fluorimetric assays in grape microsomes and commercial enzyme preparations. The effect of these flavonoids on the catalysis and its kinetic parameters was also evaluated, evidencing that they determine a hormetic dose-dependent response. These results highlight the importance of flavonoids not only as antioxidants or antimicrobial effectors, but also as modulators of plant growth and stress response. Implications of the present suggestion are here discussed in the light of environment and pesticide-reduction concerns.
Catalytic Synthesis of a New Series of Alkyl Uronates and Evaluation of Their Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Lu Huiling , Drelich Audrey , Omri Mehdi , Pezron Isabelle , Wadouachi Anne , Pourceau Gwladys
Published: September 2016

Large quantities (>3 g) of a new series of alkyl uronates were synthesized in two steps from commercial methyl hexopyranosides. Firstly, several tens of grams of free methyl α-d-glucopyranoside were selectively and quantitatively oxidized into corresponding sodium uronate using 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy free radical (TEMPO)-catalyzed oxidation. Hydrophobic chains of different length were then introduced by acid-mediated esterification with fatty alcohols (ethyl to lauryl alcohol) leading to the desired alkyl glucuronates with moderate to good yields (49%–72%). The methodology was successfully applied to methyl α-d-mannopyranoside and methyl β-d-galactopyranoside. Physicochemical properties, such as critical micelle concentration (CMC), equilibrium surface tension at CMC (γcmc), solubility, and Krafft temperature were measured, and the effect of structural modifications on surface active properties and micelle formation was discussed.
Simultaneous Detection of Dopamine and Uric Acid Using a Poly(l-lysine)/Graphene Oxide Modified Electrode
Authors: Zhang Yuehua , Lei Wu , Xu Yujuan , Xia Xifeng , Hao Qingli
Published: September 2016

A novel, simple and selective electrochemical method was investigated for the simultaneous detection of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) on a poly(l-lysine)/graphene oxide (GO) modified glassy carbon electrode (PLL/GO/GCE) by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The electrochemically prepared PLL/GO sensory platform toward the oxidation of UA and DA exhibited several advantages, including high effective surface area, more active sites and enhanced electrochemical activity. Compared to the PLL-modified GCE (PLL/GCE), GO-modified GCE and bare GCE, the PLL/GO/GCE exhibited an increase in the anodic potential difference and a remarkable enhancement in the current responses for both UA and DA. For the simultaneous detection of DA and UA, the detection limits of 0.021 and 0.074 μM were obtained, while 0.031 and 0.018 μM were obtained as the detection limits for the selective detection of UA and DA, using DPV in the linear concentration ranges of 0.5 to 20.0 and 0.5 to 35 μM, respectively. In addition, the PLL/GO/GCE demonstrated good reproducibility, long-term stability, excellent selectivity and negligible interference of ascorbic acid (AA). The proposed modified electrode was successfully implemented in the simultaneous detection of DA and UA in human blood serum, urine and dopamine hydrochloride injection with satisfactory results.
Food and Nutrient Intake among 12-Month-Old Norwegian-Somali and Norwegian-Iraqi Infants
Authors: Grewal Navnit , Andersen Lene , Kolve Cathrine , Kverndalen Ingrid , Torheim Liv
Published: September 2016

The aim of the present paper was to describe food and nutrient intake among 12-month-old Norwegian-Somali and Norwegian-Iraqi infants, with a focus on iron and vitamin D intake. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from August 2013 through September 2014. Eighty-nine mothers/infants of Somali origin and 77 mothers/infants of Iraqi origin residing in Eastern Norway participated in the study. Data were collected using two 24-h multiple-pass recalls. Forty percent of the Norwegian-Somali infants and 47% of the Norwegian-Iraqi infants were breastfed at 12 months of age (p = 0.414). Median energy percentages (E%) from protein, fat and carbohydrates were within the recommended intake ranges, except the level of saturated fats (12–13 E%). Median intakes of almost all micronutrients were above the recommended daily intakes. Most of the infants consumed iron-enriched products (81%) and received vitamin D supplements (84%). The median intakes of iron and vitamin D were significantly higher among infants receiving iron-enriched products and vitamin D supplements compared to infants not receiving such products (p < 0.001). The findings indicate that the food and nutrient intake of this group of infants in general seems to be in accordance with Norwegian dietary recommendations. Foods rich in iron and vitamin D supplements were important sources of the infants’ intake of iron and vitamin D and should continue to be promoted.
The VITAH Trial—Vitamin D Supplementation and Cardiac Autonomic Tone in Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis: A Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mann Michelle , Exner Derek , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Hanley David , Turin Tanvir , MacRae Jennifer , Wheeler David , Sola Darlene , Ramesh Sharanya , Ahmed Sofia
Published: September 2016

End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients are at increased cardiovascular risk. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with depressed heart rate variability (HRV), a risk factor depicting poor cardiac autonomic tone and risk of cardiovascular death. Vitamin D deficiency and depressed HRV are highly prevalent in the ESKD population. We aimed to determine the effects of oral vitamin D supplementation on HRV ((low frequency (LF) to high frequency (HF) spectral ratio (LF:HF)) in ESKD patients on hemodialysis. Fifty-six subjects with ESKD requiring hemodialysis were recruited from January 2013–March 2015 and randomized 1:1 to either conventional (0.25 mcg alfacalcidol plus placebo 3×/week) or intensive (0.25 mcg alfacalcidol 3×/week plus 50,000 international units (IU) ergocalciferol 1×/week) vitamin D for six weeks. The primary outcome was the change in LF:HF. There was no difference in LF:HF from baseline to six weeks for either vitamin D treatment (conventional: p = 0.9 vs. baseline; intensive: p = 0.07 vs. baseline). However, participants who remained vitamin D-deficient (25-hydroxyvitamin D < 20 ng/mL) after treatment demonstrated an increase in LF:HF (conventional: n = 13, ∆LF:HF: 0.20 ± 0.06, p < 0.001 vs. insufficient and sufficient vitamin D groups; intensive: n = 8: ∆LF:HF: 0.15 ± 0.06, p < 0.001 vs. sufficient vitamin D group). Overall, six weeks of conventional or intensive vitamin D only augmented LF:HF in ESKD subjects who remained vitamin D-deficient after treatment. Our findings potentially suggest that while activated vitamin D, with or without additional nutritional vitamin D, does not appear to improve cardiac autonomic tone in hemodialysis patients with insufficient or sufficient baseline vitamin D levels, supplementation in patients with severe vitamin D deficiency may improve cardiac autonomic tone in this higher risk sub-population of ESKD. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01774812.