bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multilayer Edible Fresh–keeping Films’ Characterization and Their Preservation Effect
Authors: Liu Xuefan , Zhu Yanxi , Ren Jiaoyu , Xuan Hongyun , Zhang Jianhao , Ge Liqin 
Published: August 2016

AbstractEdible films help to extend the shelf‐life of fruits by preventing moisture loss and improving other aspects that related to the complex postharvest process of fruits. The layer‐by‐layer (LBL) deposition method offers a promising way to prepare functional multilayer films with controllable properties. In this study, three types of edible films based on chitosan (CS), sodium alginate (SA), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) were fabricated using the LBL technique. Properties such as morphology, water solubility, water permeability, mechanically properties and transmittance were studied on the films. Glycerol (Gly) was added to the surface of these films. Gly increased the smoothness and transmittance of films and decreased the edible films’ water solubility, water vapor permeability and tensile strength. Films formed with CMC, CS and glycerol showed the best performance in the preservation effect of tangerines, as firmness and weight loss ratio inhibition were observed on tangerines coated with (CMC/CS)3/Gly film.
Direct Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Structurally Complex Chalcones
Authors: Patil Vikrant , Barragan Enrique , Patil Shivaputra A. , Patil Siddappa A. , Bugarin Alejandro 
Published: August 2016

AbstractA variety of chalcone derivatives were synthesized via aldol condensation of diverse aldehydes with acyclic and cyclic ketones, under mild reaction conditions. Reaction yields of pure products fluctuated from 48 % to 81 %. An unusually wide range of substrates including quinolines, thiophenes, pyridines, and fluorinated compounds were synthesized for this study. Full characterization data, along with in vitro antimicrobial activity for all adducts, are herein reported. Whole cell growth inhibition assays against staphylococcus aureus, escherichia coli, klebsiella pneumonia, acinetobacter baumannii, pseudomonas aeruginosa, candida albicans and cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii were performed employing all synthesized compounds (3a–m).
A Pyridine – Containing Fluorescent Probe for the Detection of Trivalent Cations in Aqueous Medium and in the Solid State
Authors: Beneto Arockiam Jesin , Siva Ayyanar 
Published: August 2016

AbstractSelective detection of trivalent cations such as Al3+, Cr3+, Fe3+ colorimetrically and ratiometrically were measured in solution by intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) induced by binding of proton with large stoke′s shift. The detection and color changes happened in quick response of time and easily visible to the naked eye. In solid state, when the fluorophore jb2 contacted with trivalent cations fluorescence switching happened, the fluorphore can easily anchored on the silica and recognition is possible by dipping into the trivalent cations and the signaling was occurring even in micromolar level. This proton binding signalling can be reversed by alkaline solutions into solution as well as in solid media. This fluorogenic switching behavior in solvent free condition is offered the promising field in various applications.
Incipient Twisted Ribbon Structure Stabilized by C12 Helical Turns in γ4/α Hybrid Peptide
Authors: Shankar Sudha , Wani Naiem Ahmad , Singh Umesh Prasad , Rai Rajkishor 
Published: August 2016

AbstractThe present work describes the synthesis and crystallographic analysis of γα hybrid peptides, Boc‐γ4‐L‐Phe‐L‐Pro‐NHMe (P1) and Boc‐(γ4‐L‐Phe‐L‐Pro)2‐NHMe (P2). Peptide P1 adopts twelve membered (C12) helical turn over γα segment, while P2 folds into twisted ribbon structure involving two expanded C12 helical turns.
Conformational Shift of a β‐Hairpin Peptide upon Complex Formation with an Oligo–proline Peptide Studied by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kölbel Knut , Warnke Stephan , Seo Jongcheol , von Helden Gert , Moretti Rocco , Meiler Jens , Pagel Kevin , Sinz Andrea 
Published: August 2016

AbstractSo‐called super‐secondary structures such as the β‐hairpin, studied here, form an intermediate hierarchy between secondary and tertiary structures of proteins. Their sequence‐derived ‘pure’ peptide backbone conformation is combined with ‘remote’ interstrand or interresidue contacts reminiscent of the 3D‐structure of full‐length proteins. This renders them ideally suited for studying potential nucleation sites of protein folding reactions as well as intermolecular interactions. But β‐hairpins do not merely serve as model systems; their unique structure characteristics warrant a central role in structural studies on their own. In this study we applied photo cross‐linking in combination with high‐resolution mass spectrometry and computational modeling as well as with ion mobility‐mass spectrometry to elucidate these structural properties. Using variants of a known β‐hairpin representative, the so‐called trpzip peptide and its ligands, we found evidence for a conformational transition of the β‐hairpin and its impact on ligand binding.
One‐Pot Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide/Iron Oxide Nanocomposite Catalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Garino Nadia , Sacco Adriano , Castellino Micaela , Muñoz‐Tabares José A. , Armandi Marco , Chiodoni Angelica , Pirri Candido F. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractWe report on a reliable and eco‐friendly procedure for the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide/Fe2O3 nanocomposite via a fast microwave‐assisted one‐pot reduction and functionalization of graphene oxide. Morphology, structure and electrochemical behavior of the as‐prepared material were characterized through different techniques. Structural and morphological characterizations evidenced the formation of nanocomposite sheets, with iron oxide nanoparticles integrated in the graphene matrix. Physico‐chemical analysis revealed the functionalization of the graphene also by the presence of nitrogen atoms that show synergistic catalysis effects with Fe2O3. Electrochemical characterizations put in evidence the ability of such material to exploit competitive performances for the oxygen reduction reaction, comparable to Pt‐based catalysts, commonly used for fuel cell applications.
Implantation of Stromal Vascular Fraction Progenitors at Bone Fracture Sites: From a Rat Model to a First-in-Man Study
Authors: Saxer Franziska , Scherberich Arnaud , Todorov Atanas , Studer Patrick , Miot Sylvie , Schreiner Simone , Güven Sinan , Tchang Laurent A.H. , Haug Martin , Heberer Michael , Schaefer Dirk J. , Rikli Daniel , Martin Ivan , Jakob Marcel 
Published: August 2016

Abstract
Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) cells freshly isolated from adipose tissue include osteogenic- and vascular-progenitors, yet their relevance in bone fracture healing is currently unknown. Here, we investigated whether human SVF cells directly contribute to the repair of experimental fractures in nude rats, and explored the feasibility/safety of their clinical use for augmentation of upper arm fractures in elderly individuals. Human SVF cells were loaded onto ceramic granules within fibrin gel and implanted in critical nude rat femoral fractures after locking-plate osteosynthesis, with cell-free grafts as control. After 8 weeks, only SVF-treated fractures did not fail mechanically and displayed formation of ossicles at the repair site, with vascular and bone structures formed by human cells. The same materials combined with autologous SVF cells were then used to treat low-energy proximal humeral fractures in 8 patients (64-84 years old) along with standard open reduction and internal fixation. Graft manufacturing and implantation were compatible with intraoperative settings and led to no adverse reactions, thereby verifying feasibility/safety. Biopsies of the repair tissue after up to 12 months, upon plate revision or removal, demonstrated formation of bone ossicles, structurally disconnected and morphologically distinct from osteoconducted bone, suggesting the osteogenic nature of implanted SVF cells. We demonstrate that SVF cells, without expansion or exogenous priming, can spontaneously form bone tissue and vessel structures within a fracture-microenvironment. The gained clinical insights into the biological functionality of the grafts, combined with their facile, intra-operative manufacturing modality, warrant further tests of effectiveness in larger, controlled trials.
Suppression of reactive oxygen species‐mediated ERK and JNK activation sensitizes dihydromyricetin‐induced mitochondrial apoptosis in human non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kao Shang‐Jyh , Lee Wei‐Jiunn , Chang Jer‐Hwa , Chow Jyh‐Ming , Chung Chi‐Li , Hung Wen‐Yueh , Chien Ming‐Hsien 
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACTNonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer with a high mortality rate and still remains a therapeutic challenge. A strategy for targeting NSCLC is to identify agents that are effective against NSCLC cells while sparing normal cells. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) is the major flavonoid component derived from Ampelopsis grossedentata, which has a long history of use in medicine. Herein, the molecular mechanisms by which DHM exerts its anticancer effects against NSCLC cells were investigated. Results from MTS, colony formation, Western blot, flow cytometric, and JC‐1 mitochondrial membrane potential assays revealed that DHM showed a selective cytotoxic effect against NSCLC cells (A549 and H1975), but not against normal lung (WI‐38) fibroblasts, by inducing apoptosis. DHM‐induced cell apoptosis occurred through Bcl‐w suppression‐mediated mitochondrial membrane depolarization, caspase‐9/‐7/‐3 activation, and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage in A549 and H1975 cells. Moreover, treatment of A549 and H1975 cells with DHM induced increase of intracellular peroxide and sustained activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)1/2, and the reactive oxygen species scavenger, N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), reversed DHM‐induced ERK and JNK activation. Furthermore, treatment of cells with specific inhibitors of ERK and JNK or NAC significantly promoted the DHM‐induced activation of caspase‐9/‐7/‐3 and PARP cleavage and also sensitized the antitumorigenic effect of DHM on NSCLC cells. These findings define and support a novel function of DHM of inducing mitochondrion‐derived apoptosis in human NSCLC cells, and a combination of DHM with ERK and JNK inhibitors should be a good strategy for preventing NSCLC proliferation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1426–1438, 2017.
Prediction of stillbirth from placental growth factor at 19–24 weeks
Authors: Aupont J. E. , Akolekar R. , Illian A. , Neonakis S. , Nicolaides K. H. 
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo investigate whether the addition of maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) measured at 19–24 weeks' gestation improves the performance of screening for stillbirth that is achieved by a combination of maternal factors, fetal biometry and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA‐PI) and to evaluate the performance of screening with this model for all stillbirths and those due to impaired placentation and unexplained or other causes.MethodsThis was a prospective screening study of 70 003 singleton pregnancies including 268 stillbirths, carried out in two phases. The first phase included prospective measurement of UtA‐PI and fetal biometry, which were available in all cases. The second phase included prospective measurement of maternal serum PlGF, which was available for 9870 live births and 86 antepartum stillbirths. The values of PlGF obtained from this screening study were simulated in the remaining cases based on bivariate Gaussian distributions, defined by the mean and standard deviations. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine whether the addition of maternal serum PlGF improved the performance of screening that was achieved by a combination of maternal factors, fetal biometry and UtA‐PI.ResultsSignificant contribution to the prediction of stillbirth was provided by maternal factor‐derived a‐priori risk, multiples of the median values of PlGF, UtA‐PI and fetal biometry Z‐scores. A model combining these variables predicted 58% of all stillbirths and 84% of those due to impaired placentation, at a false‐positive rate of 10%. Within the impaired‐placentation group, the detection rate of stillbirth < 32 weeks' gestation was higher than that of stillbirth ≥ 37 weeks (97% vs 61%; P < 0.01).ConclusionsA high proportion of stillbirths due to impaired placentation can be identified effectively in the second trimester of pregnancy using a combination of maternal factors, fetal biometry, uterine artery Doppler and maternal serum PlGF. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Climate service warnings: cautions about commercializing climate science for adaptation in the developing world
Authors: Webber Sophie , Donner Simon D 
Published: August 2016

This article examines the increasing emphasis amongst climate scientists and development professionals on providing ‘climate services’ in order to inform adaptation decisions in vulnerable countries. The climate service business model hopes to provide ‘on demand’ and ‘actionable’ information products that are useful for policy makers. Drawing from literature across the natural and social sciences, we outline potential benefits and limits of this model of providing climate information and products, as well as recommendations for improving climate services. We argue that a shift away from the commercialized model of climate services may be necessary to ensure the creation, and consistent delivery, of products that practitioners in the developing world are able to employ in making adaptation decisions. WIREs Clim Change 2017, 8:e424. doi: 10.1002/wcc.424This article is categorized under:

Climate and Development > Knowledge and Action in Development
Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Climate Science and Decision Making
Inhibition of Human Group IIA‐Secreted Phospholipase A2 and THP‐1 Monocyte Recruitment by Maslinic Acid
Authors: Yap Wei Hsum , Ahmed Nafees , Lim Yang Mooi 
Published: August 2016

AbstractMaslinic acid is a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid which has anti‐inflammatory properties. A recent study showed that secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) may be a potential binding target of maslinic acid. The human group IIA (hGIIA)‐sPLA2 is found in human sera and their levels are correlated with severity of inflammation. This study aims to determine whether maslinic acid interacts with hGIIA‐sPLA2 and inhibits inflammatory response induced by this enzyme. It is shown that maslinic acid enhanced intrinsic fluorescence of hGIIA‐sPLA2 and inhibited its enzyme activity in a concentration‐dependent manner. Molecular docking revealed that maslinic acid binds to calcium binding and interfacial phospholipid binding site, suggesting that it inhibit access of catalytic calcium ion for enzymatic reaction and block binding of the enzyme to membrane phospholipid. The hGIIA‐sPLA2 enzyme is also responsible in mediating monocyte recruitment and differentiation. Results showed that maslinic acid inhibit hGIIA‐sPLA2‐induced THP‐1 cell differentiation and migration, and the effect observed is specific to hGIIA‐sPLA2 as cells treated with maslinic acid alone did not significantly affect the number of adherent and migrated cells. Considering that hGIIA‐sPLA2 enzyme is known to hydrolyze glyceroacylphospholipids present in lipoproteins and cell membranes, maslinic acid may bind and inhibit hGIIA‐sPLA2 enzymatic activity, thereby reduces the release of fatty acids and lysophospholipids which stimulates monocyte migration and differentiation. This study is the first to report on the molecular interaction between maslinic acid and inflammatory target hGIIA‐sPLA2 as well as its effect towards hGIIA‐sPLA2‐induced THP‐1 monocyte adhesive and migratory capabilities, an important immune‐inflammation process in atherosclerosis.
The effects of enzymes and direct fed microbial combination on performance and immune response of broilers under a coccidia challenge
Authors: Dersjant-Li Y. , Gibbs K. , Awati A. , Klasing K. C. 
Published: August 2016

SummaryThis study evaluated the effect of an enzyme blend (xylanase, amylase and protease; XAP) in combination with a direct fed microbial (DFM) containing three strains of Bacillus spp. on intestinal histology, immune response and performance of broilers. Four dietary treatments were tested in a 2 × 2 factorial trial, including two levels of challenge (without or with coccidial infection), two levels of feed additive (with or without XAP and DFM). Diets were fed ad libitum to male Cobb500 broilers in mash feeds from 1–21 days of age, with eight replicate pens per treatment within brooder-batteries with raised wire floors and built up litter, housing six birds per pen. A mild challenge was introduced by oral gavage at day five to the challenged birds, using a six-fold concentration of coccidial vaccine. A high fibre basal diet formulated with rye and wheat middlings was used to further increase the challenge. Body weight and feed intake were measured and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated during starter (1–12 d), grower (12–21 d) and overall 1–21 days. Intestinal morphology and immune response parameters were measured on day 12 and 21. Compared to the unchallenged groups, the coccidial challenge reduced (P < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG), increased FCR, reduced villus height and increased crypt depth. The challenged birds had increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β; P < 0.05) in the intestine as well as higher levels of acute phase proteins (APP, haemopexin and α−1-acid glycoprotein) in the plasma and circulating heterophils. XAP + DFM supplementation improved BWG, reduced FCR and increased energy efficiency compared to the non-supplemented groups. The combination of XAP and DFM reduced inflammatory responses such as APP compared to the challenged control group and maintained performance to a comparable level seen in the unchallenged control. The data indicate that XAP enzymes in combination with Bacillus-based DFM may reduce the damage and performance losses induced by coccidial challenge.
IS INDONESIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABLE TO THE POOR? EVIDENCE FROM HEALTH POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Fossati Diego 
Published: August 2016

AbstractSince decentralization in 2001, Indonesian local governments have acquired a key role in poverty alleviation and social service delivery. The extent to which they have been able to meet this challenge is subject to debate, however, and systematic analysis of policy outcomes remains scarce. This paper contributes to the literature with a study of the district-level implementation of Jamkesmas, Indonesia's free healthcare program for the poor. Using original data on policy implementation, I show that local government is to some extent responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable. In years when local elections (pilkada) are implemented, low-income households are targeted more accurately, suggesting that electoral incentives for local elites may increase access to social services among the poor. However, I also show that the positive effect of local direct elections is limited to districts with electorally competitive politics.
Effect of Insert Groove Geometry on Chip Breaking Performance
Authors: Kuo R.-Y. , Junz Wang J.-J. , Lee R.-N. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractThe insert groove geometry is an important part of turning tool design. In this article, a systematic design approach is presented for the chip breaker design in turning. The chip breaking ability of various groove geometry of a turning insert is investigated. The ratio of chip thickness to chip curl radius is taken as the index of chip breaking performance. Taguchi method is applied to analyze the contribution to chip breaking performance of each geometric parameter. Response surface methodology is then used to construct a predictive model evaluating the effect of turning conditions and groove geometry on chip breaking performance. The result of this study shows that the feed rate significantly affects chip breaking performance, and that insert with larger land angle, higher back wall and smaller groove is more effective in chip breaking. Among the parameters of the insert groove, the width of the groove has the greatest contribution to chip breaking than the others. The simulation results and predictions are validated by turning experiments.
Accounting for the Cost of Pension Plans
Authors: Scholey J. K. 
Published: August 2016

A review of Opinion No. 8, which is a statement by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (A.I.C.P.A.). Opinion No. 8 is of interest to actuaries for the following reasons:(1) Its history provides a study of the painstaking methods followed in the U.S.A.(2) Any actuary who becomes concerned with the pension affairs of a subsidiary of a U.S. company will need to know the scope of the Opinion, its requirements and the difficulties to which it may give rise.(3) The relationship between members of different professions has to be considered from time to time. Opinion No. 8 concerns itself to some extent with actuarial matters, and it is important to be clear about what it purports to do and the precise roles cast for actuaries and accountants in dealing with it.(4) It is another factor stimulating discussion regarding pension funding methods.
On a Short Method of Constructing Select Mortality Tables
Authors: King George 
Published: August 2016

An apology is scarcely required for explaining an easy method of constructing select mortality tables; and it is hoped that the method now described and illustrated will prove useful to others, and that they also will find that it gives results sufficiently accurate for all ordinary purposes.Hitherto, select mortality tables have been constructed only by very elaborate processes; and the amount of labour involved is practically prohibitive in such cases as occur now and then in actuarial practice. Possibly many actuaries do not often require special tables of the kind, but occasions do arise where it is of real importance to construct them. This happened to me in respect of the experience of the female annuitants of the Royal National Pension Fund for Nurses, and hence the method which I now suggest was devised.
Further Notes on the Mortality Experienced by Life Tenants Under Reversions
Authors: Lever E. H. 
Published: August 2016

In October 1921, I had the honour of submitting to the Institute the results of an investigation into the mortality experienced by life tenants under reversions (J.I.A., vol. liii, pp. 1-42).The investigation led to certain interesting and, I hope, useful conclusions, among them being the fact that there was no evidence that vendors of reversions exercise selection against purchasers to a significant extent and that in consequence the mortality of life tenants could be sufficiently represented by a full aggregate table.
The use of Sampling in Pension Fund Valuations
Authors: Smith F. Gordon 
Published: August 2016

The application of sampling technique to statistical data, which a few decades ago was a rarity, has now become common practice. Our past President, Mr F. A. A. Menzler, in his presidential address said:Sampling, in all its manifestations, has become almost a social and industrial routine. In this paper, by examining in some detail the application of sampling to a particular branch of actuarial work, namely pension fund valuations, an attempt is made to investigate the possibilities of its use in the actuarial-field. By the choice of pension fund valuations, which are a particularly complicated example of the actuarial technique, the investigation will, it is hoped, give a good insight into the sort of problems involved.