bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriate Use of Doxycycline for Skin and Soft Tissue Infection after Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Brief Review and Case Presentation
Authors: Hassan Mohammed K
Published: January 2020

This paper aims to provide a concise review of doxycycline, including a case report that provides an exemplar of a short-term application of this drug to a patient who developed skin and soft tissue infection of the lower extremity after elective surgery. Doxycycline appears to be benign but research suggests that it does have notable side effects and contraindications. A short duration of treatment is recommended after the risks and benefits of Doxycycline are carefully considered, and after the therapeutic guidelines provided by CDC, IDSA and WHO are reviewed. Studies have shown that Doxycycline is effective; however, it is not appropriate for every patient and increased reports of overuse have become a serious problem. Doxycycline should be used on organisms that are sensitive or suspected to be sensitive to it. Synthesis of the literature also suggests that dose and duration needs to be careful examined. When used in outpatient therapy, use of Doxycycline prevents extended hospital stays, thus potentially reducing hospital-acquired infections and reduced costs for the hospital and the patient. Although it does have a broad antimicrobial coverage, patients should be transitioned to a narrow therapy following the discovery of sensitivity results.
Complexation and Interaction Study of Antibiotic Cifixime with Essential Metals by Spectrophotometric Method
Authors: MD Rubel , Akij MD Sheik , Islam MD Shahidul
Published: January 2020

This research work designates of interaction and complexation studies of Cefixime with essential metal. Cefixime involved the third generation drug of penicillin. In vitro analysis, Cefixime must be interacted with metal like Mg2+ and Mn2+. At pH 7.4, this study was done in different ratios of cefixime with metal and antacid both at room temperature 25°C. By this study, it is investigated that drug Cefixime is complexed with metal as well as antacid which is confirmed by jobs plot. This experiment was carried out by using ultra violet spectrophotometer. The microbial sensitivity test is important to know whether there is any change in the effectivity of Cefixime after the interaction with metals. There was a remarkable change in the effectivity of Cefixime and its complexes. This research work confirms that there was interaction between Cefixime with Metals like Mg2+ and Mn2+ which was confirmed by Jobs plot method by spectrophotometric assay.
LIFE SKILLS EDUCATION FOR SCHOOL DROP OUTS IN TAMAN SARI, DISTRICT BOGOR REGENCY
Authors: EKORESTI Stefani Nawati
Published: January 2020

Taman Sari Sub-District, Bogor Regency has the potential for fertile soil. But these lands have not been tilled properly. Narrow housing conditions, especially for poor people, do not allow residents to plant crops. Causing the lack of consumption of vegetables; which causes residents become easily sick. In addition, there is also a lot of plastic waste, especially bottled drinking water and other things that come from tourists and fishermen who have not been processed. This condition gave rise to the idea to provide life skills training in making vertical gardens, hydroponic plants and waste management. Besides the need for makeup and haircutting skills also needed especially for orphans fostered by Yasayan Usawatun Hasanah. Community Service Activities (PkM) aims to foster community awareness of the cleanliness of the environment and empower citizens to be more creative and entrepreneurial. Therefore, in addition to the types of activities requested by the residents, UPBJJ-UT Bogor will also teach about identifying the economic value of the work done in the form of determining the cost of goods sold / production. This activity was attended by 50 orphans and it ran smoothly and successfully. Now orphans already have life skills that hope can lift their economy.
Putty kidney
Authors: Parry Arshed Hussain , Robbani Irfan , Gojwari Tariq Ahmad
Published: January 2020

Renal involvement by tuberculosis leads to fibrosis and multi focal stricturing of calyces with formation of hydrocalyces. The obstructed calyceal system accumulates caseous pus within it which eventually calcifies. This obstructed and calcified kidney is non-functional and is referred to ‘putty kidney’ and this cascade of fibrosis, stricture formation, calcification with complete loss of function is called as autonephrectomy (1,2).
Effects of intravenous dexmedetomidine on analgesic and anesthetic requirement in thoracic surgeries with one lung ventilation.
Authors: Rasool Ajaiz , Shounthoo Raja Suhail , Mir Aabid Hussain , Ahmad Sheikh Irshad
Published: January 2020

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Dexmedetomidine has been shown to reduce the intraoperative requirement of anesthetic and analgesic agents. This prospective, observational study was designed to assess whether intraoperative infusion of dexmedetomidine provides effective intraoperative analgesia in thoracic surgeries carried out using one lung ventilation, and to elucidate its beneficial effects if any in terms of reducing the requirement for inhalational anesthetics intraoperatively, thereby maintaining the protective effects of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.

Methods: Sixty patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 (n=30) received a loading dose of dexmedetomidine 0.3µg/kg iv during induction of anesthesia, followed by a continuous infusion at a rate of 0.3µg/kg/hr continued upto two hours of  the surgery. Group 2 (n=30) received a volume-matched bolus and infusion of saline (0.9% saline). For each case, heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, and mean arterial pressure were recorded intraoperatively at regular intervals. Total fentanyl consumption and isoflurane requirement were noted intraoperatively for both the groups.

Results: The groups were similar with respect to baseline characteristics, and distribution of study subjects. The mean fentanyl consumption and the volatile agent requirement to achieve a particular intraoperative BIS value were significantly higher in group 2 compared to group 1 (p 0.002 and p ˂0.001 respectively).

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine infusion provides effective intraoperative analgesia and reduces the isoflurane requirement to achieve a particular depth of anesthesia during thoracic surgeries performed using one lung ventilation.

Key words: Dexmedetomidine, MAC, BIS, OLV, Thoracic surgeries, Analgesia
INFLUENZA
Authors: Qadri Syed Mudasir
Published: January 2020

Acute respiratory tract infection accompanying systemic symptoms are fever, malaise, coryza and myalgia. It is caused by influenza virus belonging to the orthomyxoviridae group. Three types of Influenza viruses occur in humans i.e. Influenza A, B and C

All the known pandemics were caused by influenza A strains as it is known to change its genetic makeup by antigenic “shift” and “drift”. Influenza B is comparatively a genetically stable virus without any animal reservoir and Influenza C causes a milder disease. There is one more type, influenza D which occurs exclusively in cattle.

The type A viruses are further divided into various subtypes based on the hemagglutinin “H” and neuraminidase “N” antigen expressed on their surface. There are 18 subtypes of hemagglutinin and 11 subtypes of neuraminidase.

Influenza epidemics affect 10-20% of the global population on an average each year and are typically the result of minor antigenic variations of the virus or antigenic drift, which occur often in influenza A virus. On the other hand, pandemics which are associated with higher mortality appear at longer and varying intervals (often many decades) as a consequence of major genetic reassortment of the virus (antigenic shift) or adaptation of an avian or swine virus to humans (as with the pandemic H1N1 virus of 1918).
Evolution of NH3 Concentrations in Weaner Pig Buildings Based on Setpoint Temperature
Authors: Rodriguez Manuel R. , Losada Eugenio , Besteiro Roberto , Arango Tamara , Velo Ramon , Ortega Juan A. , Fernandez Maria D.
Published: January 2020

Ammonia (NH3) concentration has seldom been used for environmental control of weaner buildings despite its impact on environment, animal welfare, and workers’ health. This paper aims to determine the effects of setpoint temperature (ST) on the daily evolution of NH3 concentration in the animal-occupied zone. An experimental test was conducted on a conventional farm, with ST between 23 °C and 26 °C. NH3 concentrations in the animal-occupied zone were dependent on ST insofar as ST controlled the operation of the ventilation system, which effectively removed NH3 from the building. The highest NH3 concentrations occurred at night and the lowest concentrations occurred during the daytime. Data were fitted to a sinusoidal model using the least squares setting (LSS) and fast Fourier transform (FFT), which provided R2 values between 0.71 and 0.93. FFT provided a better fit than LSS, with root mean square errors (RMSEs) between 0.09 ppm for an ST of 23 °C and 0.55 ppm for an ST of 25 °C. A decrease in ST caused a delay in the wave and a decrease in wave amplitude. The proposed equations can be used for modeling NH3 concentrations and implemented in conventional controllers for real-time environmental control of livestock buildings to improve animal welfare and productivity.
An Analytical–Experimental Approach to Quantifying the Effects of Static Magnetic Fields for Cell Culture Applications
Authors: Ferrada Pablo , Rodríguez Sebastián , Serrano Génesis , Miranda-Ostojic Carol , Maureira Alejandro , Zapata Manuel
Published: January 2020

This work aimed to study the effects of static magnetic fields (SMFs) on cell cultures. A glass flask was filled with a liquid medium, which was surrounded by permanent magnets. Air was introduced through a tube to inject bubbles. Two magnet configurations, north and south, were used as perturbation. Scenedesmus obliquus and Nannochloropsis gaditana, growing in Medium 1 and 2, were subjected to the bubbly flow and SMFs. Differences between media were mainly due to conductivity (0.09 S/m for Medium 1 and 4.3 S/m for Medium 2). Joule dissipation ( P ) increased with the magnetic flux density ( B 0 ), being 4 orders of magnitude higher in Medium 2 than in 1. Conversely, the time constant ( τ P ) depended on B 0 , being nearly constant for Medium 1 and decreasing at 449 s/T for Medium 2. Dissipation occurred with the same τ P (235 s) in Medium 1 and 2 at B 0 = 0.5 T. In Species 1, the SMF effect was inhibitory. For Species 2, a higher enzymatic activity was observed. For superoxide dismutase, the relative difference was 78% with the north and 115% with the south configuration compared to the control values. For the catalase, differences of 29% with the north and 23% with the south configuration compared to control condition were obtained.
M-Shape PV Arrangement for Improving Solar Power Generation Efficiency
Authors: Huang Yongyi , Shigenobu Ryuto , Yona Atsushi , Mandal Paras , Yan Zengfeng , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a novel design scheme to reshape the solar panel configuration and hence improve power generation efficiency via changing the traditional PVpanel arrangement. Compared to the standard PV arrangement, which is the S-shape, the proposed M-shape PV arrangement shows better performance advantages. The sky isotropic model was used to calculate the annual solar radiation of each azimuth and tilt angle for the six regions which have different latitudes in Asia—Thailand (Bangkok), China (Hong Kong), Japan (Naha), Korea (Jeju), China (Shenyang), and Mongolia (Darkhan). The optimal angle of the two types of design was found. It emerged that the optimal tilt angle of the M-shape tends to 0. The two types of design efficiencies were compared using Naha’s geographical location and sunshine conditions. Through economic analyses, both the photovoltaic base cost and the electricity sales revenue were calculated, and the results showed that the M-shape has better economic benefits compared to the S-shape design. The proposed method can save resources and improve economic efficiency as well.
Estimating Time-Varying Applied Current in the Hodgkin-Huxley Model
Authors: Campbell Kayleigh , Staugler Laura , Arnold Andrea
Published: January 2020

The classic Hodgkin-Huxley model is widely used for understanding the electrophysiological dynamics of a single neuron. While applying a low-amplitude constant current to the system results in a single voltage spike, it is possible to produce multiple voltage spikes by applying time-varying currents, which may not be experimentally measurable. The aim of this work is to estimate time-varying applied currents of different deterministic forms given noisy voltage data. In particular, we utilize an augmented ensemble Kalman filter with parameter tracking to estimate four different time-varying applied current parameters and associated Hodgkin-Huxley model states, along with uncertainty bounds in each case. We test the efficiency of the parameter tracking algorithm in this setting by analyzing the effects of changing the standard deviation of the parameter drift and the frequency of data available on the resulting time-varying applied current estimates and related uncertainty.
Mid-Infrared Grayscale Metasurface Holograms
Authors: Wu Kedi , Kossowski Nicolas , Qiu Haodong , Wang Hong , Wang Qijie , Genevet Patrice
Published: January 2020

Optical metasurfaces composed of two-dimensional arrays of densely packed nanostructures can project arbitrary holographic images at mid-infrared frequency. Our approach employs silicon nanopillars to control light properties, including polarization-independent phase response working with high-transmission efficiency over the 2π-phase modulation range at wavelength 4.7 μm. We experimentally dispose nanopillars accordingly to phase-only profiles calculated using the conventional Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm and revealed the optical performances of our devices using a mid-infrared on-axis optical setup. The total efficiency of our reflection hologram reaches 81%. Our experimental results agree well with the image of the desired object, opening up new perspectives for mid-infrared imaging and displaying for military, life science and sensing application.
A Novel Transfer Learning Based Approach for Pneumonia Detection in Chest X-ray Images
Authors: Chouhan Vikash , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Khamparia Aditya , Gupta Deepak , Tiwari Prayag , Moreira Catarina , Damaševičius Robertas , de Albuquerque Victor Hugo C.
Published: January 2020

Pneumonia is among the top diseases which cause most of the deaths all over the world. Virus, bacteria and fungi can all cause pneumonia. However, it is difficult to judge the pneumonia just by looking at chest X-rays. The aim of this study is to simplify the pneumonia detection process for experts as well as for novices. We suggest a novel deep learning framework for the detection of pneumonia using the concept of transfer learning. In this approach, features from images are extracted using different neural network models pretrained on ImageNet, which then are fed into a classifier for prediction. We prepared five different models and analyzed their performance. Thereafter, we proposed an ensemble model that combines outputs from all pretrained models, which outperformed individual models, reaching the state-of-the-art performance in pneumonia recognition. Our ensemble model reached an accuracy of 96.4% with a recall of 99.62% on unseen data from the Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center dataset.
Preparation of n-Alkane/Polycaprolactone Phase-Change Microcapsules via Single Nozzle Electro-Spraying: Characterization on Their Formation, Structures and Properties
Authors: Zhang Shengchang , Campagne Christine , Salaün Fabien
Published: January 2020

The phase change microcapsule (mPCM) is one of the primary candidates in the fields of energy storage and thermal regulation. In this study, electro-spraying, as a green, high-efficiency electrohydrodynamic atomization technology, is applied to the microencapsulation of two phase change materials (PCM) (n-hexadecane and n-eicosane) with three loading contents (30%, 50%, and 70% by weight) in a polycaprolactone matrix. Ethyl acetate (EA) and chloroform (Chl) were chosen as solvents to prepare the working solutions. The objective of this study is to clarify the microencapsulation process during electro-spraying and to optimize the structure and properties of the electro-sprayed mPCM. The structures, morphologies, and thermal properties of the mPCM were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Electro-sprayed spherical and non-porous mPCM have been successfully prepared. The mean diameter and the particle size distribution depend mainly on the choice of the n-alkane, as well as the solvent used to prepare the working solutions. Meanwhile, the structure formation of electro-sprayed mPCM and the loading content of PCM were mainly influenced by the evaporation of the solvent and the phase separation between PCM and poly(caprolactone) (PCL) matrix. During the shell formation or PCL solidification, the control of the PCM leaching out of the matrix allows improving the loading content. Finally, based on a high latent heat and simple formation process, the electro-spraying route of PCM is a green, non-toxic, and high-efficiency direction for energy storage and heat regulation.
Preliminary Estimations of Insect Mediated Transfers of Mercury and Physiologically Important Fatty Acids from Water to Land
Authors: Moyo Sydney
Published: January 2020

Aquatic insects provide an energy subsidy to riparian food webs. However, most empirical studies have considered the role of subsidies only in terms of magnitude (using biomass measurements) and quality (using physiologically important fatty acids), negating an aspect of subsidies that may affect their impact on recipient food webs: the potential of insects to transport contaminants (e.g., mercury) to terrestrial ecosystems. To this end, I used empirical data to estimate the magnitude of nutrients (using physiologically important fatty acids as a proxy) and contaminants (total mercury (Hg) and methylmercury (MeHg)) exported by insects from rivers and lacustrine systems in each continent. The results reveal that North American rivers may export more physiologically important fatty acids per unit area (93.0 ± 32.6 Kg Km−2 year−1) than other continents. Owing to the amount of variation in Hg and MeHg, there were no significant differences in MeHg and Hg among continents in lakes (Hg: 1.5 × 10−4 to 1.0 × 10−3 Kg Km−2 year−1; MeHg: 7.7 × 10−5 to 1.0 × 10−4 Kg Km−2 year−1) and rivers (Hg: 3.2 × 10−4 to 1.1 × 10−3 Kg Km−2 year−1; MeHg: 3.3 × 10−4 to 8.9 × 10−4 Kg Km−2 year−1), with rivers exporting significantly larger quantities of mercury across all continents than lakes. Globally, insect export of physiologically important fatty acids by insect was estimated to be ~43.9 × 106 Kg year−1 while MeHg was ~649.6 Kg year−1. The calculated estimates add to the growing body of literature, which suggests that emerging aquatic insects are important in supplying essential nutrients to terrestrial consumers; however, with the increase of pollutants in freshwater systems, emergent aquatic insect may also be sentinels of organic contaminants to terrestrial consumers.
Oxidation-Triggerable Liposome Incorporating Poly(Hydroxyethyl Acrylate-co-Allyl methyl sulfide) as an Anticancer Carrier of Doxorubicin
Authors: Kim Jin Ah , Yoon Dong Youl , Kim Jin-Chul
Published: January 2020

Since cancer cells are oxidative in nature, anti-cancer agents can be delivered to cancer cells specifically without causing severe normal cell toxicity if the drug carriers are designed to be sensitive to the intrinsic characteristic. Oxidation-sensitive liposomes were developed by stabilizing dioleoylphosphatidyl ethanolamine (DOPE) bilayers with folate-conjugated poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate-co-allyl methyl sulfide) (F-P(HEA-AMS)). The copolymer, synthesized by a free radical polymerization, was surface-active but lost its surface activity after AMS unit was oxidized by H2O2 treatment. The liposomes with F-P(HEA-AMS) were sensitive to H2O2 concentration (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0%) in terms of release, possibly because the copolymer lost its surface activity and its bilayer-stabilizing ability upon oxidation. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed that doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded liposomes stabilized with folate-conjugated copolymers markedly promoted the transport of the anti-cancer drug to cancer cells. This was possible because the liposomes were readily translocated into the cancer cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis. This liposome would be applicable to the delivery carrier of anticancer drugs.
Tivantinib, A c-Met Inhibitor in Clinical Trials, Is Susceptible to ABCG2-Mediated Drug Resistance
Authors: Wu Zhuo-Xun , Yang Yuqi , Teng Qiu-Xu , Wang Jing-Quan , Lei Zi-Ning , Wang Jing-Qiu , Lusvarghi Sabrina , Ambudkar Suresh , Yang Dong-Hua , Chen Zhe-Sheng
Published: January 2020

Tivantinib, also known as ARQ-197, is a potent non-ATP competitive selective c-Met inhibitor currently under phase 3 clinical trial evaluation for liver and lung cancers. In this study, we explored factors that may lead to tivantinib resistance, especially in regards to its interaction with ATP-binding cassette super-family G member 2 (ABCG2). ABCG2 is one of the most important members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family, a group of membrane proteins that play a critical role in mediating multidrug resistance (MDR) in a variety of cancers, including those of the liver and lung. Tivantinib received a high score in docking analysis, indicating a strong interaction between tivantinib and ABCG2, and an ATPase assay indicated that tivantinib stimulated ABCG2 ATPase activity in a concentration-dependent manner. An MTT assay showed that ABCG2 overexpression significantly desensitized both the cancer cells and ABCG2 transfected-HEK293 cells to tivantinib and that this drug resistance can be reversed by ABCG2 inhibitors. Furthermore, tivantinib upregulated the protein expression of ABCG2 without altering the cell surface localization of ABCG2, leading to increased resistance to substrate drugs, such as mitoxantrone. Altogether, these data demonstrate that tivantinib is a substrate of ABCG2, and, therefore, ABCG2 overexpression may decrease its therapeutic effect. Our study provides evidence that the overexpression of ABCG2 should be monitored in clinical settings as an important risk factor for tivantinib drug resistance.
Multifunctional Silica-Based Nanoparticles with Controlled Release of Organotin Metallodrug for Targeted Theranosis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Ovejero Paredes Karina , Díaz-García Diana , García-Almodóvar Victoria , Lozano Chamizo Laura , Marciello Marzia , Díaz-Sánchez Miguel , Prashar Sanjiv , Gómez-Ruiz Santiago , Filice Marco
Published: January 2020

Three different multifunctional nanosystems based on the tethering onto mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) of different fragments such as an organotin-based cytotoxic compound Ph3Sn{SCH2CH2CH2Si(OMe)3} (MSN-AP-Sn), a folate fragment (MSN-AP-FA-Sn), and an enzyme-responsive peptide able to release the metallodrug only inside cancer cells (MSN-AP-FA-PEP-S-Sn), have been synthesized and fully characterized by applying physico-chemical techniques. After that, an in vitro deep determination of the therapeutic potential of the achieved multifunctional nanovectors was carried out. The results showed a high cytotoxic potential of the MSN-AP-FA-PEP-S-Sn material against triple negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). Moreover, a dose-dependent metallodrug-related inhibitory effect on the migration mechanism of MDA-MB-231 tumor cells was shown. Subsequently, the organotin-functionalized nanosystems have been further modified with the NIR imaging agent Alexa Fluor 647 to give three different theranostic silica-based nanoplatforms, namely, MSN-AP-Sn-AX (AX-1), MSN-AP-FA-Sn-AX (AX-2), and MSN-AP-FA-PEP-S-Sn-AX (AX-3). Their in vivo potential as theranostic markers was further evaluated in a xenograft mouse model of human breast adenocarcinoma. Owing to the combination of the receptor-mediated site targeting and the specific fine-tuned release mechanism of the organotin metallodrug, the nanotheranostic drug MSN-AP-FA-PEP-S-Sn-AX (AX-3) has shown targeted diagnostic ability in combination with enhanced therapeutic activity by promoting the inhibition of tumor growth with reduced hepatic and renal toxicity upon the repeated administration of the multifunctional nanodrug.
Photosensitive Hybrid Nanostructured Materials: The Big Challenges for Sunlight Capture
Authors: Luciani Giuseppina , Imparato Claudio , Vitiello Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

Solar radiation is becoming increasingly appreciated because of its influence on living matter and the feasibility of its application for a variety of purposes. It is an available and everlasting natural source of energy, rapidly gaining ground as a supplement and alternative to the nonrenewable energy feedstock. Actually, an increasing interest is involved in the development of efficient materials as the core of photocatalytic and photothermal processes, allowing solar energy harvesting and conversion for many technological applications, including hydrogen production, CO2 reduction, pollutants degradation, as well as organic syntheses. Particularly, photosensitive nanostructured hybrid materials synthesized coupling inorganic semiconductors with organic compounds, and polymers or carbon-based materials are attracting ever-growing research attention since their peculiar properties overcome several limitations of photocatalytic semiconductors through different approaches, including dye or charge transfer complex sensitization and heterostructures formation. The aim of this review was to describe the most promising recent advances in the field of hybrid nanostructured materials for sunlight capture and solar energy exploitation by photocatalytic processes. Beside diverse materials based on metal oxide semiconductors, emerging photoactive systems, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and hybrid perovskites, were discussed. Finally, future research opportunities and challenges associated with the design and development of highly efficient and cost-effective photosensitive nanomaterials for technological claims were outlined.
Photocatalytic Performance of Electrospun Silk Fibroin/ZnO Mats to Remove Pesticide Residues from Water under Natural Sunlight
Authors: Garrido Isabel , Aznar-Cervantes Salvador , Aliste Marina , Yáñez-Gascón María J. , Vela Nuria , Cenis José L. , Navarro Simón , Fenoll José
Published: January 2020

We have evaluated the efficiency of silk fibroin (SF) coated with ZnO nanoparticles in the photocatalytic disappearance of one acaricide (etoxazole) and three fungicides (difenoconazole, myclobutanil and penconazole) in water exposed to sunlight irradiation. Electrospun SF/ZnO mats were successfully synthesized by electrospinning technique and characterized by XRD, FE-SEM, XPS, XDS, FTIR, and BET. The influence of catalyst loading on the degradation kinetics of the different pesticides was examined in order to gain knowledge of maximum degradation efficiency. A significant increment in degradation rates was observed with the addition of ZnO. SF mats with 25 mg of ZnO were finally selected since no significant differences (p < 0.05) were detected when the loading was enlarged from 25 to 50 mg for the majority of the compounds. In the experimental conditions, the half-lives ranged from 33 min to 93 min for etoxazole and myclobutanil, respectively. The comparison of SF materials coated with similar amount of TiO2 and ZnO showed that the later was slightly more efficient to remove pesticide residues. Hence, the use of electrospun SF/ZnO nanostructures would provide an environmentally friendly approach with photocatalytic activity to be applied in the reclamation of water polluted by pesticides.
A Review of FoxO1-Regulated Metabolic Diseases and Related Drug Discoveries
Authors: Peng Shiming , Li Wei , Hou Nannan , Huang Niu
Published: January 2020

FoxO1 is a conserved transcription factor involved in energy metabolism. It is tightly regulated by modifications on its mRNA and protein and responds to environmental nutrient signals. FoxO1 controls the transcription of downstream genes mediating metabolic regulation. Dysfunction of FoxO1 pathways results in several metabolic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis. Here, we summarize the mechanism of FoxO1 regulation behind these diseases and FoxO1-related drug discoveries.
Production Challenges in Least Developed Countries
Authors: Brönner Matthias , Salah Skander , Lienkamp Markus
Published: January 2020

Local production sites in least developed countries offer sustainability for both multinational corporations and local society. However, corporations often hesitate because of uncertain environmental influences on production sites in these countries. To minimize planning uncertainties, we aim to identify and categorize the challenges of local production in least developed countries. Therefore, we conduct a research on local production challenges described in current literature. Our results indicate that the influences can be clustered and occur independent of the country. To show practical relevance and actuality of the identified production challenges, we conducted two case studies. Additionally, these studies give examples for organizational, product-specific and technological solutions to overcome the prevailing challenges. In summary, we support the removal of barriers that keep corporates from setting up local production sites in least developed countries.
State-of-the-Art Green Roofs: Technical Performance and Certifications for Sustainable Construction
Authors: Naranjo Alejandra , Colonia Andrés , Mesa Jaime , Maury Heriberto , Maury-Ramírez Aníbal
Published: January 2020

Green roof systems, a technology which was used in major ancient buildings, are currently becoming an interesting strategy to reduce the negative impact of traditional urban development caused by ground impermeabilization. Only regarding the environmental impact, the application of these biological coatings on buildings has the potential of acting as a thermal, moisture, noise, and electromagnetic barrier. At the urban scale, they might reduce the heat island effect and sewage system load, improve runoff water and air quality, and reconstruct natural landscapes including wildlife. In spite of these significant benefits, the current design and construction methods are not completely regulated by law because there is a lack of knowledge of their technical performance. Hence, this review of the current state of the art presents a proper green roof classification based on their components and vegetation layer. Similarly, a detailed description from the key factors that control the hydraulic and thermal performance of green roofs is given. Based on these factors, an estimation of the impact of green roof systems on sustainable construction certifications is included (i.e., LEED—Leadership in Energy and Environment Design, BREEAM—Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, CASBEE—Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency, BEAM—Building Environmental Assessment Method, ESGB—Evaluation Standard for Green Building). Finally, conclusions and future research challenges for the correct implementation of green roofs are addressed.
Time Series Complexities and Their Relationship to Forecasting Performance
Authors: Ponce-Flores Mirna , Frausto-Solís Juan , Santamaría-Bonfil Guillermo , Pérez-Ortega Joaquín , González-Barbosa Juan J.
Published: January 2020

Entropy is a key concept in the characterization of uncertainty for any given signal, and its extensions such as Spectral Entropy and Permutation Entropy. They have been used to measure the complexity of time series. However, these measures are subject to the discretization employed to study the states of the system, and identifying the relationship between complexity measures and the expected performance of the four selected forecasting methods that participate in the M4 Competition. This relationship allows the decision, in advance, of which algorithm is adequate. Therefore, in this paper, we found the relationships between entropy-based complexity framework and the forecasting error of four selected methods (Smyl, Theta, ARIMA, and ETS). Moreover, we present a framework extension based on the Emergence, Self-Organization, and Complexity paradigm. The experimentation with both synthetic and M4 Competition time series show that the feature space induced by complexities, visually constrains the forecasting method performance to specific regions; where the logarithm of its metric error is poorer, the Complexity based on the emergence and self-organization is maximal.
A Review on Stochastic Approach for PHEV Integration Control in a Distribution System with an Optimized Battery Power Demand Model
Authors: Boudina Rabah , Wang Jie , Benbouzid Mohamed , Yao Gang , Zhou Lidan
Published: January 2020

The future adoption of electric vehicles (EV) as the main means of commuting will put an additional stress on the distribution grid; the level where EVs are mainly expected to be charged. Estimation of the EV charging influence on the distribution grid is a critical task for distribution system operators (DSO) in order to plan for grid reinforcement and to avoid service failure. Due to the unpredictable nature of daily human activities, stochastic modeling for daily EVs’ owner behavior and residential power consumption is needed. In our study a new estimation model for the EV power demand during the charging process is developed to accurately estimate the charging demand, which is combined with daily household power consumption loads based on real life measurements to estimate the total demand in the system. This demand can be applied to the standard IEEE 69 distribution system and can quantify the influence of different penetration levels under an uncontrolled (dumb) charging case, also under a proposed controlled charging algorithm for both summer and winter seasons.
Optimal Feature Search for Vigilance Estimation Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Seok Woojoon , Yeo Minsoo , You Jiwoo , Lee Heejun , Cho Taeheum , Hwang Bosun , Park Cheolsoo
Published: January 2020

A low level of vigilance is one of the main reasons for traffic and industrial accidents. We conducted experiments to evoke the low level of vigilance and record physiological data through single-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements. In this study, a deep Q-network (DQN) algorithm was designed, using conventional feature engineering and deep convolutional neural network (CNN) methods, to extract the optimal features. The DQN yielded the optimal features: two CNN features from ECG and two conventional features from EEG. The ECG features were more significant for tracking the transitions within the alertness continuum with the DQN. The classification was performed with a small number of features, and the results were similar to those from using all of the features. This suggests that the DQN could be applied to investigating biomarkers for physiological responses and optimizing the classification system to reduce the input resources.
Fast Adaptive Robust Differentiator Based Robust-Adaptive Control of Grid-Tied Inverters with a New L Filter Design Method
Authors: Kamal Tariq , Karabacak Murat , Kilic Fuat , Blaabjerg Frede , Fernández-Ramírez Luis M.
Published: January 2020

In this research, a new nonlinear and adaptive state feedback controller with a fast-adaptive robust differentiator is presented for grid-tied inverters. All parameters and external disturbances are taken as uncertain in the design of the proposed controller without the disadvantages of singularity and over-parameterization. A robust differentiator based on the second order sliding mode is also developed with a fast-adaptive structure to be able to consider the time derivative of the virtual control input. Unlike the conventional backstepping, the proposed differentiator overcomes the problem of explosion of complexity. In the closed-loop control system, the three phase source currents and direct current (DC) bus voltage are assumed to be available for feedback. Using the Lyapunov stability theory, it is proven that the overall control system has the global asymptotic stability. In addition, a new simple L filter design method based on the total harmonic distortion approach is also proposed. Simulations and experimental results show that the proposed controller assurances drive the tracking errors to zero with better performance, and it is robust against all uncertainties. Moreover, the proposed L filter design method matches the total harmonic distortion (THD) aim in the design with the experimental result.
Investigation of the Design and Fault Prediction Method for an Abrasive Particle Sensor Used in Wind Turbine Gearbox
Authors: Zhang Le , Yang Qiang
Published: January 2020

The gearbox is a key sub-component of a wind power generation system with high failure rate leading to shutdowns. By monitoring the abrasive particles in the lubricating oil when the gearbox is running, any abnormal condition of the gearbox can be found in advance. This information may be used to improve the operational safety of the wind turbine and reduce losses because of shutdowns and maintenance. In this paper, a three-coil induction abrasive particle sensor is designed based on the application of high-power wind turbine gearbox. The performance of the sensor and the design method of the detection circuit are described in detail, and the sensor operation performance used in the 2 MW wind turbine is verified. The results show that the sensor has superior performance in identifying ferromagnetic abrasive particles above 200 μm and plays a good role in status monitoring and fault prediction for the gearbox.
Finding the Unicorn, a New Mouse Model of Midfacial Clefting
Authors: Lantz Brandi , White Casey , Liu Xinyun , Wan Yong , Gabriel George , Lo Cecilia W. Y. , Szabo-Rogers Heather L.
Published: January 2020

Human midfacial clefting is a rare subset of orofacial clefting and in severe cases, the cleft separates the nostrils splitting the nose into two independent structures. To begin to understand the morphological and genetic causes of midfacial clefting we recovered the Unicorn mouse line. Unicorn embryos develop a complete midfacial cleft through the lip, and snout closely modelling human midfacial clefting. The Unicorn mouse line has ethylnitrosourea (ENU)-induced missense mutations in Raldh2 and Leo1. The mutations segregate with the cleft face phenotype. Importantly, the nasal cartilages and surrounding bones are patterned and develop normal morphology, except for the lateral displacement because of the cleft. We conclude that the midfacial cleft arises from the failure of the medial convergence of the paired medial nasal prominences between E10.5 to E11.5 rather than defective cell proliferation and death. Our work uncovers a novel mouse model and mechanism for the etiology of midfacial clefting.
Was the Cinta Senese Pig Already a Luxury Food in the Late Middle Ages? Ancient DNA and Archaeozoological Evidence from Central Italy
Authors: Gabbianelli Federica , Alhaique Francesca , Romagnoli Giuseppe , Brancazi Luca , Piermartini Lavinia , Ottoni Claudio , Valentini Alessio , Chillemi Giovanni
Published: January 2020

The Cinta senese is a pig breed, highly esteemed for its meat and derived products, characterized by a black coat with a typical white “belt” and documented by scant iconography, since the 13th–14th century in Italy. A piece of pottery showing a Cinta pig was found in the Graffignano castle (Northern Latium, Italy) dated 15th–16th centuries, spurring us to investigate the diet of the inhabitants. Ancient DNA analysis was carried out on 21 pig specimens on three nuclear SNPs: (1) g.43597545C>T, on the KIT gene, informative for the identification of the Cinta senese breed; (2) rs81460129, on an intergenic region in chr. 16, which discriminates between domestic pigs and wild boars, and; (3) a SNP on the ZFY/ZFX homologous genes, to determine the sex of the individuals. Our results indicate that the Cinta senese was present in Northern Latium in Late Medieval time, although it was not the only breed, and that pigs, including Cinta, interbred with wild boars, suggesting free-range breeding for all types of pigs. Moreover, the unexpected high proportion of young females may be considered as evidence for the wealth of the family inhabiting the castle.
Soil Water Content Diachronic Mapping: An FFT Frequency Analysis of a Temperature–Vegetation Index
Authors: Capodici Fulvio , Cammalleri Carmelo , Francipane Antonio , Ciraolo Giuseppe , La Loggia Goffredo , Maltese Antonino
Published: January 2020

Among the indirect estimation approaches of soil water content in the upper layer of the soil, the “triangle method” is one of the most common that relies on the simple relationship between the optical and thermal features sensed via Earth Observation. These features are controlled by water content at the surface and within the root zone but also by meteorological forcing including air temperature and humidity, as well as solar radiation. Night- and day-time MODIS composites of land-surface temperature (LST) allowed applying a version of the triangle method that takes into account the temporal admittance of the soil. In this study, it has been applied to a long time-series of pair images to analyze the seasonal influence of the meteorological forcing on a triangle method index (or temperature–vegetation index, TVX), as well as to discuss extra challenges of the diachronic approach including seasonality effects and the variability of environmental forcing. The Imera Meridionale basin (Sicily, Italy) has been chosen to analyze the method over a time-series of 12 years. The analysis reveals that, under these specific environmental and climatic conditions (strong seasonality and rainfall out of phase with vegetation growth), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and LST pairs move circularly in time within the optical vs. thermal feature space. Concordantly, the boundaries of the triangle move during the seasons. Results showed a strong correlation between TVX and rainfall normalized amplitudes of the power spectra (r2 ~0.8) over the range of frequencies of the main harmonics.
Impacts of Triple Factors on Flash Flood Vulnerability in Egypt: Urban Growth, Extreme Climate, and Mismanagement
Authors: Saber Mohamed , Abdrabo Karim I. , Habiba Omar M. , Kantosh Sameh A. , Sumi Tetsuya
Published: January 2020

Urban growth, extreme climate, and mismanagement are crucial controlling factors that affect flood vulnerability at wadi catchments. Therefore, this study attempts to understand the impacts of these three factors on the flash flood vulnerability in different climatic regions in Egypt. An integrated approach is presented to evaluate the urban growth from 1984 to 2019 by using Google Images and SENTINEL-2 data, and to develop hazard maps by using a rainfall-runoff-inundation model (RRI). Annual rainfall trend analysis was performed to evaluate the temporal variability trend. The hazard maps that were created were classified into three categories (low, medium, and high) and integrated with the urban growth maps to evaluate the impacts on the flood-vulnerable areas. The results show a significant increase in urban growth resulting in an increase of prone areas for flood hazards over time. However, the degree of this hazard is mainly related to growth directions. Mismanagement affects urban growth directions in both planned and unplanned growth, whether by loss of control over unplanned growth or by deficiencies in approved plans. The rainfall analysis showed that there is no explicit relationship to increases or decreases in the flood vulnerable areas. An urban planning approach is recommended for risk reduction management based on a comprehensive study considering such factors.
An Experimental Study on the Effect of Water on Historic Brickwork Masonry
Authors: Giaccone Domenico , Santamaria Ulderico , Corradi Marco
Published: January 2020

Architectural heritage is deeply threatened by extreme weather events due to ongoing climatic change. Since these phenomena are becoming more and more serious, their effects cannot be neglected when a reliable assessment of a historic masonry structure is required. In this paper, the phenomenon of rising damp was studied, focusing on the influence of water on the unit weight of masonry walls made from fired clay bricks and lime mortar. This study consists of a basic experimental research on the variations in the unit weight of masonry undergoing an ageing treatment, which was simulated through some cycles of capillary water absorption and temperature changes. The experimental study proves that penetrating damp causes an increase in masonry unit weight of more than 20%. This basic result is significant in the structural assessment of historic masonry buildings. Subsequent papers will analyze the interaction with strengths parameters.
Short-Term Solutions to a Long-Term Challenge: Rethinking Disaster Recovery Planning to Reduce Vulnerabilities and Inequities
Authors: Finucane Melissa L. , Acosta Joie , Wicker Amanda , Whipkey Katie
Published: January 2020

In the immediate aftermath of disaster, governments usually act quickly to reduce risk and to recover their communities’ socio-economic functioning. Policy makers in these situations need—but may not have the capacity or time for—substantial analysis and public debate about how to balance short- and long-term societal needs. Inadequate attention to this challenge may result in a deepening of the inequities that increase vulnerability to disaster impacts. We review case examples to illustrate how post-disaster policies may influence the nature, pace, and inclusiveness of community recovery. We then apply a vulnerability/inequity framework to conceptualize how to enhance disaster recovery and avoid perpetuating inequities when weighing the diverse needs of communities across long time horizons.