bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ultra-Low-k Dielectric Materials for Performance Improvement in Coupled Multilayer Graphene Nanoribbon Interconnects
Authors: Xu Peng , Pan Zhongliang , Tang Zhenhua
Published: July 2019

The ultra-low-k dielectric material replacing the conventional SiO2 dielectric medium in coupled multilayer graphene nanoribbon (MLGNR) interconnects is presented. An equivalent distributed transmission line model of coupled MLGNR interconnects is established to derive the analytical expressions of crosstalk delay, transfer gain, and noise output for 7.5 nm technology node at global level, which take the in-phase and out-of-phase crosstalk into account. The results show that by replacing the SiO2 dielectric mediums with the nanoglass, the maximum reduction of delay time and peak noise voltage are 25.202 ns and 0.102 V for an interconnect length of 3000 µm, respectively. It is demonstrated that the ultra-low-k dielectric materials can significantly reduce delay time and crosstalk noise and increase transfer gain compared with the conventional SiO2 dielectric medium. Moreover, it is found that the coupled MLGNR interconnect under out-of-phase mode has a larger crosstalk delay and a lesser transfer gain than that under in-phase mode, and the peak noise voltage increases with the increase of the coupled MLGNR interconnect length. The results presented in this paper would be useful to aid in the enhancement of performance of on-chip interconnects and provide guidelines for signal characteristic analysis of MLGNR interconnects.
Dilation Behavior of Gas-Saturated Methane-Hydrate Bearing Sand
Authors: Pinkert Shmulik
Published: July 2019

The geotechnical properties of methane-hydrate-bearing sediments (MHBS) are commonly investigated in the laboratory by using artificial hydrate formations in sandy specimens. Analyses of MHBS saturated with gas or water (in addition to methane-hydrate) showed significant mechanical differences between the two pore-filling states. This paper discusses the unique dilatancy behavior of gas-saturated MHBS, with comparison to water-saturated test results of previously-published works. It is shown that the significant compaction of gas-saturated samples is related to internal tensile forces, which are absent in water-saturated samples. The conceptual link between the internal tensile forces and the compaction characteristics is demonstrated through mechanical differences between pure sand and cemented sand. The paper establishes the link between internal adhesion in gas-saturated MHBS and the unique dilation response by using a stress–dilatancy analysis.
Localization Approach Based on Ray-Tracing Simulations and Fingerprinting Techniques for Indoor–Outdoor Scenarios
Authors: Del Corte-Valiente Antonio , Gómez-Pulido José Manuel , Gutiérrez-Blanco Oscar , Castillo-Sequera José Luis
Published: July 2019

The increase of the technology related to radio localization and the exponential rise in the data traffic demanded requires a large number of base stations to be installed. This increase in the base stations density also causes a sharp rise in energy consumption of cellular networks. Consequently, energy saving and cost reduction is a significant factor for network operators in the development of future localization networks. In this paper, a localization method based on ray-tracing and fingerprinting techniques is presented. Simulation tools based on high frequencies are used to characterize the channel propagation and to obtain the ray-tracing data. Moreover, the fingerprinting technique requires a costly initial learning phase for cell fingerprint generation (radio-map). To estimate the localization of mobile stations, this paper compares power levels and delay between rays as cost function with different distance metrics. The experimental results show that greater accuracy can be obtained in the location process using the delay between rays as a cost function and the Mahalanobis distance as a metric instead of traditional methods based on power levels and the Euclidean distance. The proposed method appears well suited for localization systems applied to indoor and outdoor scenarios and avoids large and costly measurement campaigns.
Performance Improvements of Induction Motor Drive Supplied by Hybrid Wind and Storage Generation System Based on Mine Blast Algorithm
Authors: Abdalla Shiref A. , Abdullah Shahrum S.
Published: July 2019

This research investigates the performance improvements of induction motor (IM) drive supplied by a hybrid wind/battery storage system based on the optimal mine blast algorithm. This is done by using IM field-oriented speed control as an independent dynamic load and a battery as a storage power unit. To ensure the accuracy and quality of energy equilibrium in autonomous wind power systems, there is an urgent and necessary demand for battery storage units. So in principle, the overall system of the complete model is configured to be combined with an uncontrolled rectifier, a steady magnetic synchronous generator (PMSG), a buck converter, and a lead–acid battery (LAB) in addition to an induction motor. According to the imposed controller, the loads required power can be obtained effectively by the prescribed battery storage and the wind generation units. Considering the suggested vector control to adjust the induction motor velocity through a three-phase inverter, it will be obtained 220 V/50 Hz, which is the principal target of this research. Moreover, the system with the proposed optimal control is compared with the optimal control based on genetic algorithm (GA) and the classical PID control. It is, therefore, possible to conclude that the results of numerical calculations and simulations illustrate that the studied system has strong achievement and perfect predictor of the electric parameter waveforms.
The Effect of Renewable Energy Consumption on Sustainable Economic Development: Evidence from Emerging and Developing Economies
Authors: Ahmed Mun , Shimada Koji
Published: July 2019

The objective of the paper is to figure out the nexus between renewable energy consumption and sustainable economic development for emerging and developing countries. In this paper, a panel of 30 emerging and developing countries is selected using the World Development Indicators (WDI) of the World Bank, Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index (RECAI) by Ernst and Young, and a random selection method based on the current trend of renewable energy consumption for five different regions of the world i.e., Asia, South-Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean. To achieve the objective, robust panel econometric models such as the Pesaran cross-section dependence (CD) test, second generation panel unit root test, e.g., cross-sectional augmented IPS test (CIPS) proposed by Pesran (2007), panel co-integration test, fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) are applied to check the cross-sectional dependence, heterogeneity and long-term relationship among variables. The panel is strongly balanced and the findings suggest a significant long-run relationship between renewable energy consumption and economic growth for selected South Asian, Asian and most of the African countries (Ghana, Tunisia, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Cameroon). But for the Latin American and the Caribbean countries, economic growth depends on non-renewable energy consumption. Renewable energy consumption in the selected countries of these two regions are still at the initial stage. In case of the renewable energy consumption and CO 2 emissions nexus, for selected South Asian, Asian, Latin American and African countries both GDP and non-renewable energy consumption cause the increase of CO 2 emissions. For the Caribbean countries only non-renewable energy consumption causes the increase of CO 2 emissions. An important finding regarding renewable energy consumption-economic growth nexus indicates the existence of bi-directional causality. This supports the existence of a feedback hypothesis for the emerging and developing economies. In the case of renewable energy consumption- CO 2 emissions nexus, there exists unidirectional causality. This supports the existence of the conservation hypothesis, where CO 2 emissions necessitates the renewable energy consumptions. Based on the findings, the study proposes possible policy options. The countries, who have passed the take-off stage of renewable energy consumption, can take advanced policy initiatives e.g., feed-in tariff, renewable portfolio standard and green certificate for long-term economic development. Other countries can undertake subsidy, low interest loan and market development to facilitate the renewable energy investments.
Metabolic–Epigenetic Axis in Pluripotent State Transitions
Authors: D’Aniello Cristina , Cermola Federica , Patriarca Eduardo J. , Minchiotti Gabriella
Published: July 2019

Cell state transition (CST) occurs during embryo development and in adult life in response to different stimuli and is associated with extensive epigenetic remodeling. Beyond growth factors and signaling pathways, increasing evidence point to a crucial role of metabolic signals in this process. Indeed, since several epigenetic enzymes are sensitive to availability of specific metabolites, fluctuations in their levels may induce the epigenetic changes associated with CST. Here we analyze how fluctuations in metabolites availability influence DNA/chromatin modifications associated with pluripotent stem cell (PSC) transitions. We discuss current studies and focus on the effects of metabolites in the context of naïve to primed transition, PSC differentiation and reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), analyzing their mechanism of action and the causal correlation between metabolites availability and epigenetic alteration.
Development of a Circular Oriented Bioprocess for Microbial Oil Production Using Diversified Mixed Confectionery Side-Streams
Authors: Tsakona Sofia , Papadaki Aikaterini , Kopsahelis Nikolaos , Kachrimanidou Vasiliki , Papanikolaou Seraphim , Koutinas Apostolis
Published: July 2019

Diversified mixed confectionery waste streams were utilized in a two-stage bioprocess to formulate a nutrient-rich fermentation media for microbial oil production. Solid-state fermentation was conducted for the production of crude enzyme consortia to be subsequently applied in hydrolytic reactions to break down starch, disaccharides, and proteins into monosaccharides, amino acids, and peptides. Crude hydrolysates were evaluated in bioconversion processes using the red yeast Rhodosporidium toruloides DSM 4444 both in batch and fed-batch mode. Under nitrogen-limiting conditions, during fed-batch cultures, the concentration of microbial lipids reached 16.6–17 g·L−1 with the intracellular content being more than 40% (w/w) in both hydrolysates applied. R. toruloides was able to metabolize mixed carbon sources without catabolite repression. The fatty acid profile of the produced lipids was altered based on the substrate employed in the bioconversion process. Microbial lipids were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, with oleic acid being the major fatty acid (61.7%, w/w). This study showed that mixed food side-streams could be valorized for the production of microbial oil with high unsaturation degree, pointing towards the potential to produce tailor-made lipids for specific food applications. Likewise, the proposed process conforms unequivocally to the principles of the circular economy, as the entire quantity of confectionery by-products are implemented to generate added-value compounds that will find applications in the same original industry, thus closing the loop.
Dissipative Processes and Their Role in the Evolution of Radio Galaxies
Authors: Perucho Manel
Published: July 2019

Particle acceleration in relativistic jets, to very high levels of energy, occurs at the expense of the dissipation of magnetic or kinetic energy. Therefore, understanding the processes that can trigger this dissipation is key to the characterization of the energy budgets and particle acceleration mechanisms in action in active galaxies. Instabilities and entrainment are two obvious candidates to trigger dissipation. On the one hand, supersonic, relativistic flows threaded by helical fields, as expected from the standard formation models of jets in supermassive black-holes, are unstable to a series of magnetohydrodynamical instabilities, such as the Kelvin–Helmholtz, current-driven, or possibly the pressure-driven instabilities. Furthermore, in the case of expanding jets, the Rayleigh–Taylor and centrifugal instabilities may also develop. With all these destabilizing processes in action, a natural question is to ask how can some jets keep their collimated structure along hundreds of kiloparsecs. On the other hand, the interaction of the jet with stars and clouds of gas that cross the flow in their orbits around the galactic centers provides another scenario in which kinetic energy can be efficiently converted into internal energy and particles can be accelerated to non-thermal energies. In this contribution, I review the conditions under which these processes occur and their role both in jet evolution and propagation and energy dissipation.
Several Lower Palaeolithic Sites along the Rhine Rift Valley, Dated from 1.3 to 0.6 Million Years
Authors: Fiedler Lutz , Humburg Christian , Klingelhöfer Horst , Stoll Sebastian , Stoll Manfred
Published: July 2019

The important discoveries of Lower Palaeolithic artefacts in stratigraphical context within Lower and early Middle Pleistocene deposits in the western continental part of Europe along the rift systeme of the Rhine Valley are pointing at the possible continuous presence of hominins since the Lower Pleistocene. This paper reports on lithic industry from its early appearance at around 1.3 million years (Ma) at the site of Münster-Sarmsheim to the latest pre-Elsterian period at around 0.6 Ma at Mauer, Mosbach, and Miesenheim.
The Composite Nature of Andreas
Authors: Maddock David
Published: July 2019

Scholars of the Old English poem Andreas have long debated its dating and authorship, as the poem shares affinities both with Beowulf and the signed poems of Cynewulf. Although this debate hinges on poetic style and other internal evidence, the stylistic uniformity of Andreas has not been suitably demonstrated. This paper investigates this question by examining the distribution of oral-formulaic data within the poem, which is then correlated to word frequency and orthographic profiles generated with lexomic techniques. The analysis identifies an earlier version of the poem, which has been expanded by a later poet.
Relevance of Gender and Social Support in Self-Rated Health and Life Satisfaction in Elderly Spanish People
Authors: Matud M. Pilar , García M. Concepción , Fortes Demelza
Published: July 2019

Background: Gender and social support are important social determinants of health, but the relevance of such variables in older people’s health has raised less scholarly attention than in younger age groups. This study examines the relevance of gender and social support in the self-rated health and life satisfaction of elderly Spanish people. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 702 men and 754 women aged between 60 and 94 years was conducted. All participants were evaluated through questionnaires that assess gender role traits, social support, and life satisfaction. Results: Men scored higher than women in masculine/instrumental trait and in life satisfaction whereas women scored higher than men in feminine/expressive trait. Results from multiple regression analyses indicated that women and men presenting higher social support had better self-rated health and higher life satisfaction. High scores in masculine/instrumental trait also proved to be an important predictor of men’s and women’s high life satisfaction and of women’s better self-rated health, whereas the high feminine/expressive trait predicted better self-rated health in the men group. A high educational level was associated in the women’s group with better self-rated health and higher life satisfaction. Conclusions: We conclude that gender and social support are important social determinants of health among older people.
Proactive Telephone Smoking Cessation Counseling Tailored to Parents: Results of a Randomized Controlled Effectiveness Trial
Authors: Scheffers-van Schayck Tessa , Otten Roy , Engels Rutger C.M.E. , Kleinjan Marloes
Published: July 2019

A recent Dutch efficacy trial showed the efficacy of a telephone smoking cessation counseling tailored to smoking parents. Currently, it is unknown whether such telephone counseling would be effective under more real-world conditions. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of parent-tailored telephone smoking cessation counseling in a two-arm randomized controlled effectiveness trial and whether the effectiveness depended on the recruitment approaches that were used to recruit parents (mass media vs. health care). In total, 87 parents received either telephone counseling (intervention) or a self-help brochure (control). Parents were asked to complete questionnaires at baseline and three months post-intervention. Results showed that the odds of reporting 7-day point-prevalence abstinence at three months post-intervention was 7.54 higher for parents who received telephone counseling than for parents in the control condition (53.3% vs. 13.2%, 95% CI = 2.49–22.84). Because inclusion was lower than anticipated, interaction-effects of condition and recruitment approach could not be interpreted. The present study demonstrates that the parent-tailored smoking cessation telephone counseling is effective in helping parents to quit smoking. Yet, before large-scale implementation, future research should focus on how recruitment of parents via the recruitment approaches could be improved.
Progress Evaluation for Transnational Restaurant Chains to Reformulate Products and Standardize Portions to Meet Healthy Dietary Guidelines and Reduce Obesity and Non-Communicable Disease Risks, 2000–2018: A Scoping and Systematic Review to Inform Policy
Authors: Kraak Vivica , Rincón-Gallardo Patiño Sofia , Renukuntla Deepthi , Kim Eojina
Published: July 2019

Transnational restaurant chains sell food and beverage products in 75 to 139 countries worldwide linked to obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study examined whether transnational restaurant chains reformulated products and standardized portions aligned with healthy dietary guidelines and criteria. Firstly, we describe the transnational restaurant industry structure and eating trends. Secondly, we summarize results from a scoping review of healthy dietary guidelines for restaurants. Thirdly, we describe a systematic review of five electronic databases (2000–2018) to identify studies on nutrient profile and portion size changes made by transnational restaurants over 18 years. We used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, identified 179 records, and included 50 studies conducted in 30 countries across six regions. The scoping review found a few expert-recommended targets for restaurants to improve offerings, but no internationally accepted standard for portions or serving sizes. The systematic review results showed no standardized assessment methods or metrics to evaluate transnational chain restaurants’ practices to improve menu offerings. There was wide variation within and across countries, regions, firms, and chains to reduce energy, saturated and trans fats, sodium, and standardized portions. These results may inform future research and encourage transnational chain restaurants to offer healthy product profiles and standardized portions to reduce obesity and NCD risks worldwide.
The Association between Mortality-to-Incidence Ratios and Health Expenditures in Brain and Nervous System Cancers
Authors: Lee Tsung-Han , Sung Wen-Wei , Chan Lung , Lee Hsiang-Lin , Chen Sung-Lang , Huang Yu-Hui , Kwan Aij-Lie
Published: July 2019

Mortality-to-incidence ratios (MIRs) are alternative parameters used to evaluate the prognosis of a disease. In addition, MIRs are associated with the ranking of health care systems and expenditures for certain types of cancer. However, a lack of association between MIRs and pancreatic cancer has been noted. Given the poor prognosis of brain and nervous system cancers, similar to pancreatic cancer, the relation of MIRs and health care disparities is worth investigating. We used the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (CC) to analyze the correlation between the MIRs in brain and nervous system cancers and inter-country disparities, including expenditures on health and human development index. Interestingly, the MIRs in brain and nervous system cancers are associated with the human development index score (N = 157, CC = −0.394, p < 0.001), current health expenditure (CHE) per capita (N = 157, CC = −0.438, p < 0.001), and CHE as percentage of gross domestic product (N = 157, CC = −0.245, p = 0.002). In conclusion, the MIRs in the brain and nervous system cancer are significantly associated with health expenditures and human development index. However, their role as an indicator of health disparity warrants further investigation.
Identify and Delimitate Urban Hotspot Areas Using a Network-Based Spatiotemporal Field Clustering Method
Authors: Xia Zelong , Li Hao , Chen Yuehong , Liao Weisheng
Published: July 2019

Pick-up and drop-off events of taxi trajectory data contain rich information about residents’ travel activities and road traffic. Such data have been widely applied in urban hotspot detection in recent years. However, few studies have attempted to delimitate the urban hotspot scope using taxi trajectory data. On this basis, the current study firstly introduces a network-based spatiotemporal field (NSF) clustering approach to discover and identify hotspots. Our proposed method expands the notion from spatial to space–time dimension and from Euclidean to network space by comparing with traditional spatial clustering analyses. In addition, a concentration index of hotspot areas is presented to refine the surface of centredness to delimitate the hotspot scope further. This index supports the quantitative depiction of hotspot areas by generating two standard deviation isolines. In the case study, we analyze the spatiotemporal dynamic patterns of hotspots at different days and times of day using the NSF method. Meanwhile, we also validate the effectiveness of the proposed method in identifying hotspots to evaluate the delimitating results. Experimental results reveal that the proposed approach can not only help detect detailed microscale characteristics of urban hotspots but also identify high-concentration patterns of pick-up incidents in specific places.
A Spatio-Temporal Flow Model of Urban Dockless Shared Bikes Based on Points of Interest Clustering
Authors: Dong Jian , Chen Bin , He Lingnan , Ai Chuan , Zhang Fang , Guo Danhuai , Qiu Xiaogang
Published: July 2019

With the advantages of convenient access and free parking, urban dockless shared bikes are favored by the public. However, the irregular flow of dockless shared bikes poses a challenge for the research of flow pattern. In this paper, the flow characteristics of dockless shared bikes are expounded through the analysis of the time series location data of ofo and mobike shared bikes in Beijing. Based on the analysis, a model called DestiFlow is proposed to describe the spatio-temporal flow of urban dockless shared bikes based on points of interest (POIs) clustering. The results show that the DestiFlow model can find the aggregation areas of dockless shared bikes and describe the structural characteristics of the flow network. Our model can not only predict the demand for dockless shared bikes, but also help to grasp the mobility characteristics of citizens and improve the urban traffic management system.
Silencing of the Chitin Synthase Gene Is Lethal to the Asian Citrus Psyllid, Diaphorina citri
Authors: Lu Zhan-Jun , Huang Yu-Ling , Yu Hai-Zhong , Li Ning-Yan , Xie Yan-Xin , Zhang Qin , Zeng Xiang-Dong , Hu Hao , Huang Ai-Jun , Yi Long , Su Hua-Nan
Published: July 2019

Chitin synthase is a critical enzyme that catalyzes N-acetylglucosamine to form chitin, which plays an important role in the growth and development of insects. In this study, we identified a chitin synthase gene (CHS) with a complete open reading frame (ORF) of 3180 bp from the genome database of Diaphorina citri, encoding a protein of 1059 amino acid residues with the appropriate signature motifs (EDR and QRRRW). Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis suggested that D. citri CHS (DcCHS) was expressed throughout all developmental stages and all tissues. DcCHS had the highest expression level in the integument and fifth-instar nymph stage. Furthermore, the effects of diflubenzuron (DFB) on D. citri mortality and DcCHS expression level were investigated using fifth-instar nymph through leaf dip bioassay, and the results revealed that the nymph exposed to DFB had the highest mortality compared with control group (Triton-100). Silencing of DcCHS by RNA interference resulted in malformed phenotypes and increased mortality with decreased molting rate. In addition, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) also revealed corresponding ultrastructural defects. Our results suggest that DcCHS might play an important role in the development of D. citri and can be used as a potential target for psyllid control.
Exploring the N-Glycosylation Profile of Glycoprotein B from Human Cytomegalovirus Expressed in CHO and Nicotiana tabacum BY-2 Cells
Authors: Smargiasso Nicolas , Nader Joseph , Rioux Stéphane , Mazzucchelli Gabriel , Boutry Marc , De Pauw Edwin , Chaumont François , Navarre Catherine
Published: July 2019

The ability to control the glycosylation pattern of recombinant viral glycoproteins represents a major prerequisite before their use as vaccines. The aim of this study consisted of expressing the large soluble ectodomain of glycoprotein B (gB) from Human Cytomegalovirus (HMCV) in Nicotiana tabacum Bright Yellow-2 (BY-2) suspension cells and of comparing its glycosylation profile with that of gB produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. gB was secreted in the BY-2 culture medium at a concentration of 20 mg/L and directly purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and size exclusion chromatography. We then measured the relative abundance of N-glycans present on 15 (BY-2) and 17 (CHO) out of the 18 N-sites by multienzymatic proteolysis and mass spectrometry. The glycosylation profile differed at each N-site, some sites being occupied exclusively by oligomannosidic type N-glycans and others by complex N-glycans processed in some cases with additional Lewis A structures (BY-2) or with beta-1,4-galactose and sialic acid (CHO). The profiles were strikingly comparable between BY-2- and CHO-produced gB. These results suggest a similar gB conformation when glycoproteins are expressed in plant cells as site accessibility influences the glycosylation profile at each site. These data thus strengthen the BY-2 suspension cultures as an alternative expression system.
Clustered DNA Damages induced by 0.5 to 30 eV Electrons
Authors: Zheng Yi , Sanche Léon
Published: July 2019

Low-energy electrons (LEEs) of energies ≤30 eV are generated in large quantities by ionizing radiation. These electrons can damage DNA; particularly, they can induce the more detrimental clustered lesions in cells. This type of lesions, which are responsible for a large portion of the genotoxic stress generated by ionizing radiation, is described in the Introduction. The reactions initiated by the collisions of 0.5–30 eV electrons with oligonucleotides, duplex DNA, and DNA bound to chemotherapeutic platinum drugs are explained and reviewed in the subsequent sections. The experimental methods of LEE irradiation and DNA damage analysis are described with an emphasis on the detection of cluster lesions, which are considerably enhanced in DNA–Pt–drug complexes. Based on the energy dependence of damage yields and cross-sections, a mechanism responsible for the clustered lesions can be attributed to the capture of a single electron by the electron affinity of an excited state of a base, leading to the formation of transient anions at 6 and 10 eV. The initial capture is followed by electronic excitation of the base and dissociative attachment—at other DNA sites—of the electron reemitted from the temporary base anion. The mechanism is expected to be universal in the cellular environment and plays an important role in the formation of clustered lesions.
Solvent Evaporation in an Isolated Subsurface Structure: An Unrecognized and Underappreciated Risk
Authors: McManus Thomas Neil , Haddad Assed
Published: July 2019

Isolated subsurface structures readily collect solvents spilled onto surrounding surfaces or poured into opening(s) in the manhole cover. Fatal overexposures and fires/explosions have occurred following these events. This work documents evaporation of 10 mL of lacquer thinner from a paper towel positioned near the base of a vertically oriented precast concrete chamber (volume = 2.5 m3) and exchange through opening(s) in the manhole cover monitored using a Photoionization Device (PID) sensor. A sixth order polynomial fitted by Microsoft Excel best describes the process of evaporation and dispersion in the airspace and exchange with the external atmosphere. Restoration of the uncontaminated atmosphere can require 48 hours or more under these conditions. A manhole cover containing a single opening is most likely to retain vapor for the longest period, and one with two circumferential openings opposite each other is least likely. Results presented here argue for the involvement of individuals made knowledgeable by education, experience, and training in confined spaces to address this unrecognized and underappreciated risk. Optimizing ventilation induced by natural forces in isolated subsurface structures is a natural application of the NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) Prevention through Design initiative.
Mortality from Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy: Exploring the Gap between Estimated and Civil Registry Data
Authors: Manthey Jakob , Rehm Jürgen
Published: July 2019

Background: Based on civil registries, 26,000 people died from alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM) in 2015 globally. In the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 study, garbage coded deaths were redistributed to ACM, resulting in substantially higher ACM mortality estimates (96,669 deaths, 95% confidence interval: 82,812–97,507). We aimed to explore the gap between civil registry and GBD mortality data, accounting for alcohol exposure as a cause of ACM. Methods: ACM mortality rates were obtained from civil registries and GBD for n = 77 countries. The relationship between registered and estimated mortality rates was assessed by sex and age groups, using Pearson correlation coefficients, in addition to comparing mortality rates with population alcohol exposure—the underlying cause of ACM. Results: Among people aged 65 years or older, civil registry mortality rates of ACM decreased markedly whereas GBD mortality rates increased. The widening gap of registered and estimated mortality rates in the elderly is reflected in a decrease of correlations. The age distribution of alcohol exposure is more consistent with the distribution of civil registry rather than GBD mortality rates. Conclusions: Among older adults, GBD mortality estimates of ACM seem implausible and are inconsistent with alcohol exposure. The garbage code redistribution algorithm should include alcohol exposure for ACM and other alcohol-attributable diseases.
Therapeutic Potential of Lespedeza bicolor to Prevent Methylglyoxal-Induced Glucotoxicity in Familiar Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Do Moon Ho , Lee Jae Hyuk , Cho Kyohee , Kang Min Cheol , Subedi Lalita , Parveen Amna , Kim Sun Yeou
Published: July 2019

Lespedeza bicolor (LB) is often used in traditional medicine to remove toxins, replenish energy stores, and regulate various symptoms of diabetes. This study aimed to explore the use of LB as a therapeutic to prevent diabetic nephropathy in methylglyoxal (MGO)-treated models in vitro and in vivo. Western blotting, immunostaining, and biochemical assays were used to obtain several experimental readouts in renal epithelial cells (LLC-PK1) and BALB/c mice. These include: production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), expression of receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE), apoptotic cell death, glucose levels, fatty acid and triglyceride levels, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, glyoxalase 1 (Glo1), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Pretreatment with LB significantly reduced MGO-induced cellular apoptosis, intracellular production of ROS, and formation of AGEs to ameliorate renal dysfunction in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, administering LB in MGO-treated cells and mice upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and Glo1, and downregulated the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α. Moreover, LB reduced MGO-induced AGE accumulation and RAGE expression in the kidneys, which subsequently reduced AGE-RAGE interactions. Overall, LB ameliorates renal cell apoptosis and corrects renal dysfunction in MGO-treated mice. These findings extend our understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of MGO-induced nephrotoxicity and regulation of the AGE/RAGE axis by Lespedeza bicolor.
Association between Beta2-Adrenergic Receptor Agonists and the Risk of Vascular Complications in Diabetic Patients: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Hee Jeong , Lee Haekyung , Oh Song Hee , Park Suyeon , Jung Kwang-Young , Kim Hyoungnae , Kwon Soon Hyo , Jeon Jin Seok , Han Dong Cheol , Noh Hyunjin
Published: July 2019

Beta2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists can have protective effects targeting macrophage activation, but research on human subjects has not been done. This study was designed to assess the relationship between the use of β2AR agonists and diabetic vascular complications. Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service, adults first diagnosed with diabetes in 2004 (n = 249,222) were followed up until 31 December 2015. Propensity score matching was performed between case and control groups (n = 5179 in each), and multivariate analysis was conducted. The β2AR agonist group was divided into quartiles according to the duration of β2AR agonist use. During the follow-up, the incidence of vascular complications gradually decreased as the duration of β2AR agonist administration increased. Multivariate analysis revealed that the hazard ratio for all composite vascular complications was 0.80 (95% CI, 0.75–0.86, p < 0.001) in the longest quartile of β2AR agonist use as compared with the control group after adjusting for confounding variables. The association between the duration of β2AR agonist use and the risk of each vascular complication including cerebrovascular, peripheral vascular, peripheral neural, renal, and ophthalmic complications was consistent, and the risks were significantly lower in the longest users than the control group. Long-term use of β2AR agonists may exert a protective effect against diabetic vascular complications.
Rights in the Time of Populism: Land and Institutional Change Amid the Reemergence of Right-Wing Authoritarianism in Colombia
Authors: Coronado Sergio
Published: July 2019

In Colombia, right-wing leadership returned to power after winning the presidential elections in 2018 in a campaign in which they opposed the previous government, primarily because of the negotiations and peacemaking with the FARC-EP (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia—Ejército del Pueblo ‘Armed Revolutionary Forces of Colombia—People’s Army’), Colombia’s largest guerrilla organization. Globally, there is a vibrant academic debate about how to characterize the current rise of right-wing populism or authoritarianism, but more profound insights from each country’s situation and its political economy implications are needed. The victory in Colombia was due to numerous factors, including the support from some rural elites who have historically obstructed the enforcement of redistributive land policies. However, the populist aspirations of the right-wing government have been persistently frustrated not only by social unrest and political mobilization but also because of the enforcement of institutions previously incorporated into the country’s political scenario. Specifically, in terms of agrarian political economy, two sets of human rights-oriented institutional changes are relevant regarding this matter: (a) the Land Restitution Law enacted in 2011 and (b) the Comprehensive Rural Reform contained in the Agrarian Chapter of the Peace Agreement between the national government and the FARC-EP in 2016. The purpose of this paper is to ground the ongoing theoretical and political debate about the rise of different forms of populism and right-wing authoritarianism in the current Colombian political context, and its implications on the countryside. The analytical contribution of this paper is twofold: On the one hand, I propose an alternative for explaining the nature of the current political regime in Colombia as right-wing authoritarianism; on the other hand, I analyze some features of such regimes in terms of its disputes with the enforcement of human rights-oriented institutions, that are in force as the result of political processes triggered by peasants’ mobilization.
Welding Temperature Distribution and Residual Stresses in Thick Welded Plates of SA738Gr.B Through Experimental Measurements and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Yan Guizhen , Xiu Yanfei , Yang Zhongwei , Wang Gang , Liu Wei , Li Shaohua , Jiang Wenchun
Published: July 2019

A numerical and experimental study of welding temperature distribution and residual stresses in thick welded plates of SA738Gr.B was conducted. Within the framework of numerical investigations, the temperature field of SA738 thick plate welding was simulated and analysed by using 2-D modelling technology. The temperature field was checked by using the thermal cycle curve with the aim of increasing the computational accuracy and efficiency, and the temperature field was verified by using the thermal cycle curve and heat affected zone. The welding stress field was analysed based on the temperature field, and the indentation test method was used to verify the stress field, and the error was controlled to within 12.5%. With the help of a welding model established for SA738Gr.B thick-plate welding the sequence was simulated. Seen from welding sequence 1 to welding sequence 3, transverse stress S11 changed significantly, decreasing by 14% and 17% respectively, adjusting the welding sequence can reduce welding residual stresses.
Mechanical Properties and Resistance to Acid Corrosion of Polymer Concrete Incorporating Ceramsite, Fly Ash and Glass Fibers
Authors: Shen Yinong , Liu Bo , Lv Jianfu , Shen Manlin
Published: July 2019

A novel polymer concrete (PC) using an aggregate of ceramsite, fly ash and glass fiber was created. Specimens were used in experiments to investigate its anticorrosion properties to determine the viability of its use in flue gas desulfurization (FGD) stacks. The inclusion of ceramsite reduces both the weight and the cost of the material. The effects of ceramsite and glass fiber on the flexural strength and compressive strength of the concrete were investigated. The experimental results showed that ceramsite reduces the flexural strength and the compressive strength of the concrete, but that the glass fiber increases both. Surface resistance to sulfuric acid corrosion and the microstructure of the corroded concrete were investigated. Specimens of the novel PC and the control PC strongly resisted acid corrosion. Although the specimen surfaces deteriorated, the interior structure of the PC was unaffected after 50 days of acid immersion. Processes by which sulfuric acid corrodes PC surfaces were determined.
Free Vibrations of Sandwich Plates with Damaged Soft-Core and Non-Uniform Mechanical Properties: Modeling and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Bacciocchi Michele , Luciano Raimondo , Majorana Carmelo , Tarantino Angelo Marcello
Published: July 2019

The paper aims to investigate the natural frequencies of sandwich plates by means of a Finite Element (FE) formulation based on the Reissner-Mindlin Zig-zag (RMZ) theory. The structures are made of a damaged isotropic soft-core and two external stiffer orthotropic face-sheets. These skins are strengthened at the nanoscale level by randomly oriented Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and are reinforced at the microscale stage by oriented straight fibers. These reinforcing phases are included in a polymer matrix and a three-phase approach based on the Eshelby-Mori-Tanaka scheme and on the Halpin-Tsai approach, which is developed to compute the overall mechanical properties of the composite material. A non-uniform distribution of the reinforcing fibers is assumed along the thickness of the skin and is modeled analytically by means of peculiar expressions given as a function of the thickness coordinate. Several parametric analyses are carried out to investigate the mechanical behavior of these multi-layered structures depending on the damage features, through-the-thickness distribution of the straight fibers, stacking sequence, and mass fraction of the constituents. Some final remarks are presented to provide useful observations and design criteria.
Carbon Xerogels Hydrothermally Doped with Bimetal Oxides for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Abdelwahab Abdalla , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Pérez-Cadenas Agustín F.
Published: July 2019

A total of two carbon xerogels doped with cobalt and nickel were prepared by the sol–gel method. The obtained carbon xerogels underwent further surface modification with three binary metal oxides namely: nickel cobaltite, nickel ferrite, and cobalt ferrite through the hydrothermal method. The mesopore volumes of these materials ranged between 0.24 and 0.40 cm3/g. Moreover, there was a morphology transformation for the carbon xerogels doped with nickel cobaltite, which is in the form of nano-needles after the hydrothermal process. Whereas the carbon xerogels doped with nickel ferrite and cobalt ferrite maintained the normal carbon xerogel structure after the hydrothermal process. The prepared materials were tested as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction using 0.1 M KOH. Among the prepared carbon xerogels cobalt-doped carbon xerogel had better electrocatalytic performance than the nickel-doped ones. Moreover, the carbon xerogels doped with nickel cobaltite showed excellent activity for oxygen reduction reaction due to mesoporosity development. NiCo2O4/Co-CX showed to be the best electrocatalyst of all the prepared electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction application, exhibiting the highest electrocatalytic activity, lowest onset potential Eonset of −0.06 V, and the lowest equivalent series resistance (ESR) of 2.74 Ω.
Innovative Spine Implants for Improved Augmentation and Stability in Neoplastic Vertebral Compression Fracture
Authors: Cornelis Francois H. , Joly Quentin , Nouri-Neuville Maud , Ben-Ammar Mohamed , Kastler Bruno , Kastler Adrian , Amoretti Nicolas , Hauger Olivier
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives: Tumor-related vertebral compression fractures often result in severe back pain as well as progressive neurologic impairment and additional morbidities. The fixation of these fractures is essential to obtain good pain relief and to improve the patients’ quality of life. Thus far, several spine implants have been developed and studied. The aims of this review were to describe the implants and the techniques proposed to treat cancer-related vertebral compression fractures and to compile their safety and efficacy results. Materials and Methods: A systematic MEDLINE/PubMed literature search was performed, time period included articles published between January 2000 and March 2019. Original articles were selected based on their clinical relevance. Results: Four studies of interest and other cited references were analyzed. These studies reported significant pain and function improvement as well as kyphotic angle and vertebral height restoration and maintain for every implant and technique investigated. Conclusions: Although good clinical performance is reported on these devices, the small numbers of studies and patients investigated draw the need for further larger evaluation before drawing a definitive treatment decision tree to guide physicians managing patients presenting with neoplastic vertebral compression fracture.
Application of Iron Aluminides in the Combustion Chamber of Large Bore 2-Stroke Marine Engines
Authors: Moszner Frank , Peng Jian , Suutala Jyrki , Jasnau Ulf , Damani Monika , Palm Martin
Published: July 2019

Iron aluminides possess a unique combination of properties such as attractive corrosion resistance in hot gas and wet chemical environments, a favorable strength to weight ratio, low costs of alloying elements, and they can be processed by conventional methods. For the current study, a promising iron aluminide (Fe-Al-Mo-Ti-B) was employed, which shows the potential to replace costly heat resistant steels or expensive Ni-based alloys for components in large bore two-stroke marine engines. The prechamber, an integral part of the combustion system of dual fuel two-stroke marine engines, which must withstand harsh conditions, was selected as the component. Prototypes made of the novel iron aluminide were manufactured via investment casting and hot isostatic pressing using powder of the intermetallic alloy. The high temperature oxidation behavior, the wet corrosion resistance in acid media, and the mechanical properties up to 700 °C were evaluated. A prototype of the prechamber was tested on a large bore two-stroke dual fuel test engine and post analysis of the tested component was performed. The results show that the employed iron aluminide alloy could be an economic alternative to the currently used Ni-based alloy.
Gut Dysbiosis and the Intestinal Microbiome: Streptococcus thermophilus a Key Probiotic for Reducing Uremia
Authors: Vitetta Luis , Llewellyn Hannah , Oldfield Debbie
Published: July 2019

In the intestines, probiotics can produce antagonistic effects such as antibiotic–like compounds, bactericidal proteins such as bacteriocins, and encourage the production of metabolic end products that may assist in preventing infections from various pathobionts (capable of pathogenic activity) microbes. Metabolites produced by intestinal bacteria and the adoptions of molecular methods to cross-examine and describe the human microbiome have refreshed interest in the discipline of nephology. As such, the adjunctive administration of probiotics for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) posits that certain probiotic bacteria can reduce the intestinal burden of uremic toxins. Uremic toxins eventuate from the over manifestation of glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity, increased activity of the hexosamine and polyol biochemical and synthetic pathways. The accumulation of advanced glycation end products that have been regularly associated with a dysbiotic colonic microbiome drives the overproduction of uremic toxins in the colon and the consequent local pro-inflammatory processes. Intestinal dysbiosis associated with significant shifts in abundance and diversity of intestinal bacteria with a resultant and maintained uremia promoting an uncontrolled mucosal pro-inflammatory state. In this narrative review we further address the efficacy of probiotics and highlighted in part the probiotic bacterium Streptococcus thermophilus as an important modulator of uremic toxins in the gut of patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. In conjunction with prudent nutritional practices it may be possible to prevent the progression of CKD and significantly downregulate mucosal pro-inflammatory activity with the administration of probiotics that contain S. thermophilus.