bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Antioxidants Significantly Attenuate Hyperoxia-Induced Acute Inflammatory Lung Injury by Enhancing Macrophage Function via Reducing the Accumulation of Airway HMGB1
Authors: Patel Vivek , Dial Katelyn , Wu Jiaqi , Gauthier Alex G. , Wu Wenjun , Lin Mosi , Espey Michael G. , Thomas Douglas D. , Ashby Charles R. , Mantell Lin L.
Published: February 2020

Mechanical ventilation with hyperoxia is the major supportive measure to treat patients with acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, prolonged exposure to hyperoxia can induce oxidative inflammatory lung injury. Previously, we have shown that high levels of airway high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) mediate hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury (HALI). Using both ascorbic acid (AA, also known as vitamin C) and sulforaphane (SFN), an inducer of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), we tested the hypothesis that dietary antioxidants can mitigate HALI by ameliorating HMGB1-compromised macrophage function in phagocytosis by attenuating hyperoxia-induced extracellular HMGB1 accumulation. Our results indicated that SFN, which has been shown to attenute HALI in mice exposed to hyperoxia, dose-dependently restored hyperoxia-compromised macrophage function in phagocytosis (75.9 ± 3.5% in 0.33 µM SFN versus 50.7 ± 1.8% in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) control, p < 0.05) by reducing oxidative stress and HMGB1 release from cultured macrophages (47.7 ± 14.7% in 0.33 µM SFN versus 93.1 ± 14.6% in DMSO control, p < 0.05). Previously, we have shown that AA enhances hyperoxic macrophage functions by reducing hyperoxia-induced HMGB1 release. Using a mouse model of HALI, we determined the effects of AA on hyperoxia-induced inflammatory lung injury. The i.p. administration of 50 mg/kg of AA to mice exposed to 72 h of ≥98% O2 significantly decreased hyperoxia-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress in mouse lungs. There was a significant decrease in the levels of airway HMGB1 (43.3 ± 12.2% in 50 mg/kg AA versus 96.7 ± 9.39% in hyperoxic control, p < 0.05), leukocyte infiltration (60.39 ± 4.137% leukocytes numbers in 50 mg/kg AA versus 100 ± 5.82% in hyperoxic control, p < 0.05) and improved lung integrity in mice treated with AA. Our study is the first to report that the dietary antioxidants, ascorbic acid and sulforaphane, ameliorate HALI and attenuate hyperoxia-induced macrophage dysfunction through an HMGB1-mediated pathway. Thus, dietary antioxidants could be used as potential treatments for oxidative-stress-induced acute inflammatory lung injury in patients receiving mechanical ventilation.
A Case Report of a Japanese Boy with Morquio A Syndrome: Effects of Enzyme Replacement Therapy Initiated at the Age of 24 Months
Authors: Nakamura-Utsunomiya Akari , Nakamae Toshio , Kagawa Reiko , Karakawa Shuhei , Sakata Sonoko , Sakura Fumiaki , Tani Chihiro , Matsubara Yoshiko , Ishino Takashi , Tajima Go , Okada Satoshi
Published: February 2020

Background: Morquio A syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA (MPS IVA), is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by the deficient activity of N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase (GalNac6S), due to alterations in the GALNS gene. This disorder results in marked abnormalities in bones and connective tissues, and affects multiple organs. Here, we describe the clinical course of a Japanese boy with MPS IVA who began enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) at the age of 24 months. Patient: the patient presented for kyphosis treatment at 22 months of age. An X-ray examination revealed dysostosis multiplex. Uronic acids were elevated in the urine and the keratan sulfate (KS) fraction was predominant. The leukocyte GalNac6S enzyme activity was extremely low. The patient exhibited the c.463G > A (p.Gly155Arg) mutation in GALNS. Based on these findings, his disease was diagnosed as classical (severe) Morquio A syndrome. An elosulfase alfa infusion was initiated at the age of 24 months. The patient’s body height improved from −2.5 standard deviation (SD) to −2 SD and his physical activity increased during the first 9 months on ERT. However, he gradually developed paralysis in the lower legs with declining growth velocity, which required cervical decompression surgery in the second year of the ERT. The mild mitral regurgitation, serous otitis media, and mild hearing loss did not progress during treatment. Conclusion: early initiation of the elosulfase alfa to our patient showed good effects on the visceral system and muscle strength, while its effect on bones appeared limited. Careful observation is necessary to ensure timely surgical intervention for skeletal disorders associated with neurological symptoms. Centralized and multidisciplinary management is essential to improve the prognosis of pediatric patients with MPS IVA.
Maize ZmBES1/BZR1-5 Decreases ABA Sensitivity and Confers Tolerance to Osmotic Stress in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Sun Fuai , Yu Haoqiang , Qu Jingtao , Cao Yang , Ding Lei , Feng Wenqi , Khalid Muhammad Hayder Bin , Li Wanchen , Fu Fengling
Published: February 2020

The BRI1-EMS suppressor 1 (BES1)/brassinazole-resistant 1 (BZR1) transcription factors, key components in the brassinosteroid signaling pathway, play pivotal roles in plant growth and development. However, the function of BES1/BZR1 in crops during stress response remains poorly understood. In the present study, we characterized ZmBES1/BZR1-5 from maize, which was localized to the nucleus and was responsive to abscisic acid (ABA), salt and drought stresses. Heterologous expression of ZmBES1/BZR1-5 in transgenic Arabidopsis resulted in decreased ABA sensitivity, facilitated shoot growth and root development, and enhanced salt and drought tolerance with lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative electrolyte leakage (REL) under osmotic stress. The RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis revealed that 84 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were regulated by ZmBES1/BZR1-5 in transgenic Arabidopsis. Subsequently, gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses showed that the DEGs were enriched in response to stress, secondary metabolism and metabolic pathways. Furthermore, 30 DEGs were assigned to stress response and possessed 2–15 E-box elements in their promoters, which could be potentially recognized and bound by ZmBES1/BZR1-5. Taken together, our results reveal that the ZmBES1/BZR1-5 transcription factor positively regulates salt and drought tolerance by binding to E-box to induce the expression of downstream stress-related genes. Therefore, our study contributes to the better understanding of BES1/BZR1 function in the stress response of plants.
NADPH Oxidase-Mediated Activation of Neutral Sphingomyelinase Is Responsible for Diesel Particulate Extract-Induced Keratinocyte Apoptosis
Authors: Lee Hyun-Seok , Park Hye Yoon , Kwon Sung Pil , Kim Bogyeong , Lee Yerin , Kim Seongeun , Shin Kyong-Oh , Park Kyungho
Published: February 2020

Human epidermis is positioned at the interface with the external environment, protecting our bodies against external challenges, including air pollutants. Emerging evidence suggests that diesel particulate extract (DPE), a major component of air pollution, leads to impairment of diverse cellular functions in keratinocytes (KC). In this study, we investigated the cellular mechanism underlying DPE-induced KC apoptosis. We first addressed cell death occurring in KC exposed to DPE, paralleled by increased activation of NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and subsequent ROS generation. Blockade of NOX activation with a specific inhibitor attenuated the expected DPE-induced KC apoptosis. In contrast, pre-treatment with a specific inhibitor of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation did not reverse DPE/NOX-mediated increase in KC apoptosis. We next noted that NOX-mediated KC apoptosis is mainly attributable to neutral sphingomyelinase (SMase)-mediated stimulation of ceramides, which is a well-known pro-apoptotic lipid. Moreover, we found that inhibition of NOX activation significantly attenuated DPE-mediated increase in the ratio of ceramide to its key metabolite sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), an important determinant of cell fate. Together, these results suggest that activation of neutral SMase serves as a key downstream signal for the DPE/NOX activation-mediated alteration in ceramide and S1P productions, and subsequent KC apoptosis.
The Effects of a Predictive HMI and Different Transition Frequencies on Acceptance, Workload, Usability, and Gaze Behavior during Urban Automated Driving
Authors: Hecht Tobias , Kratzert Stefan , Bengler Klaus
Published: February 2020

Automated driving research as a key topic in the automotive industry is currently undergoing change. Research is shifting from unexpected and time-critical take-over situations to human machine interface (HMI) design for predictable transitions. Furthermore, new applications like automated city driving are getting more attention and the ability to engage in non-driving related activities (NDRA) starting from SAE Level 3 automation poses new questions to HMI design. Moreover, future introduction scenarios and automated capabilities are still unclear. Thus, we designed, executed, and assessed a driving simulator study focusing on the effect of different transition frequencies and a predictive HMI while freely engaging in naturalistic NDRA. In the study with 33 participants, we found transition frequency to have effects on workload and acceptance, as well as a small impact on the usability evaluation of the system. Trust, however, was not affected. The predictive HMI was used and accepted, as can be seen by eye-tracking data and the post-study questionnaire, but could not mitigate the above-mentioned negative effects induced by transition frequency. Most attractive activities were window gazing, chatting, phone use, and reading magazines. Descriptively, window gazing and chatting gained attractiveness when interrupted more often, while reading magazines and playing games were negatively affected by transition rate.
A Systematic Review of Robotics Research in Support of In-Home Care for Older Adults
Authors: Abou Allaban Anas , Wang Maozhen , Padır Taşkın
Published: February 2020

The aging population is growing at an unprecedented rate globally and robotics-enabled solutions are being developed to provide better independent living for older adults. In this study, we report the results from a systematic review of the state-of-the-art in home robotics research for caring for older adults. This review aims to address two questions: (1) What research is being done towards integrating robotics for caring for older adults? (2) What are the research and technology challenges that robots are facing in the home? Sixty-three papers have been identified and studied in this review by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Common themes that are consistent across the reviewed papers are distinguished and consolidated as follows: (1) Ambient assisted living, where smart home environments and physical support tools are studied; (2) Robot ecosystem, where robotic devices are used to provide various services; (3) Social interaction, where the social isolation problem has been targeted. We also summarize the results of similar literature reviews we came across during our search. The results of this study present the current research trends and technologies used in each category. The challenges and limitations of robotics applications are also identified. Suggestions for accelerating the deployment of robots at home for providing older adults with independent care in the home are presented based on the results and insights from this study.
Genetic Algorithm-Based Optimization of Offloading and Resource Allocation in Mobile-Edge Computing
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhu Qi
Published: February 2020

Mobile edge computing (MEC) can use a wireless access network to serve smart devices nearby so as to improve the service experience of users. In this paper, a joint optimization method based on the Genetic Algorithm (GA) for task offloading proportion, channel bandwidth, and mobile edge servers’ (MES) computing resources is proposed in the scenario where some computing tasks can be partly offloaded to the MES. Under the limitation of wireless transmission resources and MESs’ processing resources, GA was used to solve the optimization problem of minimizing user task completion time, and the optimal offloading task strategy and resource allocation scheme were obtained. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively reduce the task completion time and ensure the fairness of users’ completion times.
A New Method to Evaluate the Post-Earthquake Performance and Safety of Reinforced Concrete Structural Frame Systems
Authors: Konstandakopoulou Foteini , Hatzigeorgiou George , Evangelinos Konstantinos , Tsalis Thomas , Nikolaou Ioannis
Published: February 2020

This study examines the relation between maximum seismic displacements and residual displacements for reinforced concrete building structures. In order to achieve a reliable relationship between these critical structural parameters for the seismic performance of concrete buildings, an extensive parametric study is conducted by examining the nonlinear behavior of numerous planar framed structures. In this work, dynamic inelastic analyses are executed to investigate the seismic behavior of two sets of frames. The first group consists of four planar frames which have been designed for seismic and vertical loads according to modern structural codes while the second group also consists of four frames, which have been designed for vertical loads only, in order to examine older structures that have been designed using codes with inadequate seismic provisions. These two sets of buildings are subjected to various earthquakes with different amplitudes in order to develop a large structural response databank. On the basis of this wide-ranging parametric investigation, after an appropriate statistical analysis, simple empirical expressions are proposed for a straightforward and efficient evaluation of maximum seismic displacements of reinforced concrete buildings structures from their permanent deformation. Permanent displacements can be measured in-situ after strong ground motions as a post-earthquake assessment. It can be concluded that the measure of permanent deformation can be efficiently used to estimate the post-seismic performance level of reinforced concrete buildings.
Investigation of Hydrogen Storage Characteristics of MgH2 Based Materials with Addition of Ni and Activated Carbon
Authors: Grigorova Eli , Nihtianova Diana , Tsyntsarski Boyko , Stoycheva Ivanka
Published: February 2020

Magnesium-based materials are promising as hydrogen storage media due to their high theoretical hydrogen absorption capacity, abundance and low price. The subject of this study are the hydrogen sorption characteristics of the composites 80 wt % MgH2-15 wt % Ni-5 wt % activated carbon (synthesized from polyolefin wax, a waste product of polyethylene production at low pressure which will be denoted further in the text as POW) and 90 wt % MgH2-5 wt % Ni-5 wt % POW, prepared by ball milling under argon atmosphere. Structure, phase and surface composition of the samples before and after hydrogenation are determined by XRD and TEM. The maximum absorption capacity value of the composites at a temperature 573 K and after 60 min. of hydrogenation are 5.3 wt % H2 for the material with higher Ni content and 5.5 wt % H2 for the other sample. The presence of both additives—nickel and activated carbon derived from POW—has a positive impact on hydrogenation kinetics and the capacity achieved. The results from TEM characterization, e.g., the polycrystalline SAED (selected area electron diffraction) show the presence of graphite, Mg and monoclinic Mg2NiH4.
Wing Geometric Morphometrics of Workers and Drones and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Provide Similar Genetic Structure in the Iberian Honey Bee (Apis mellifera iberiensis)
Authors: Henriques Dora , Chávez-Galarza Julio , S. G. Teixeira Juliana , Ferreira Helena , J. Neves Cátia , Francoy Tiago M. , Pinto M. Alice
Published: February 2020

Wing geometric morphometrics has been applied to honey bees (Apis mellifera) in identification of evolutionary lineages or subspecies and, to a lesser extent, in assessing genetic structure within subspecies. Due to bias in the production of sterile females (workers) in a colony, most studies have used workers leaving the males (drones) as a neglected group. However, considering their importance as reproductive individuals, the use of drones should be incorporated in these analyses in order to better understand diversity patterns and underlying evolutionary processes. Here, we assessed the usefulness of drone wings, as well as the power of wing geometric morphometrics, in capturing the signature of complex evolutionary processes by examining wing shape data, integrated with geographical information, from 711 colonies sampled across the entire distributional range of Apis mellifera iberiensis in Iberia. We compared the genetic patterns reconstructed from spatially-explicit shape variation extracted from wings of both sexes with that previously reported using 383 genome-wide SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms). Our results indicate that the spatial structure retrieved from wings of drones and workers was similar (r = 0.93) and congruent with that inferred from SNPs (r = 0.90 for drones; r = 0.87 for workers), corroborating the clinal pattern that has been described for A. m. iberiensis using other genetic markers. In addition to showing that drone wings carry valuable genetic information, this study highlights the capability of wing geometric morphometrics in capturing complex genetic patterns, offering a reliable and low-cost alternative for preliminary estimation of population structure.
Free Electron Laser Performance within the EuPRAXIA Facility
Authors: Nguyen Federico , Bernhard Axel , Chancé Antoine , Couprie Marie-Emmanuelle , Dattoli Giuseppe , Lechner Christoph , Marocchino Alberto , Maynard Gilles , Petralia Alberto , Rossi Andrea Renato
Published: February 2020

Over the past 90 years, particle accelerators have evolved into powerful and widely used tools for basic research, industry, medicine, and science. A new type of accelerator that uses plasma wakefields promises gradients as high as some tens of billions of electron volts per meter. This would allow much smaller accelerators that could be used for a wide range of fundamental and applied research applications. One of the target applications is a plasma-driven free-electron laser (FEL), aiming at producing tunable coherent light using electrons traveling in the periodic magnetic field of an undulator. In this work, the plasma-based electron beams with the most promising qualities, designed in the framework of EuPRAXIA, are analyzed in terms of the FEL performance.
Animal Biopolymer-Plant Biomass Composites: Synergism and Improved Sorption Efficiency
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed H. , Udoetok Inimfon A. , Wilson Lee D.
Published: February 2020

Pelletized biomaterial composites that contain chitosan (C) and torrefied wheat straw (S) at variable weight composition (C:S) were prepared using a facile blending process. The fractional content of the wheat straw was studied to elucidate the role of biomass on the pelletized product and effects of S-content on the physicochemical properties relevant to adsorption phenomena. Chitosan pellets (with and without S) were characterized by spectroscopic (FT-IR and 13C NMR) and thermal (TGA and DSC) techniques to provide support for their respective C:S composition. Confocal microscopy using fluorescein (FL) as a dye probe revealed the presence and an increase in the accessibility of the active sites for the composite pellets according to the S-content (wt %). Equilibrium and kinetic sorption studies using FL and reactive black (RB) dyes revealed an incremental adsorption affinity of the pellets with anionic dyes in variable charge states (FL and RB). The trend for dye adsorption parallels the incremental S-content (wt %) in the composite pellets. This study reports a first-example of a low-cost, facile, and sustainable approach for the valorization of straw and chitosan suitable for sorption-based applications in aqueous media.
Development of An Integrated Numerical Model for Simulating Wave Interaction with Permeable Submerged Breakwaters Using Extended Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Pourteimouri Paran , Hejazi Kourosh
Published: February 2020

An integrated two-dimensional vertical (2DV) model was developed to investigate wave interactions with permeable submerged breakwaters. The integrated model is capable of predicting the flow field in both surface water and porous media on the basis of the extended volume-averaged Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (VARANS). The impact of porous medium was considered by the inclusion of the additional terms of drag and inertia forces into conventional Navier–Stokes equations. Finite volume method (FVM) in an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) formulation was adopted for discretization of the governing equations. Projection method was utilized to solve the unsteady incompressible extended Navier–Stokes equations. The time-dependent volume and surface porosities were calculated at each time step using the fraction of a grid open to water and the total porosity of porous medium. The numerical model was first verified against analytical solutions of small amplitude progressive Stokes wave and solitary wave propagation in the absence of a bottom-mounted barrier. Comparisons showed pleasing agreements between the numerical predictions and analytical solutions. The model was then further validated by comparing the numerical model results with the experimental measurements of wave propagation over a permeable submerged breakwater reported in the literature. Good agreements were obtained for the free surface elevations at various spatial and temporal scales, velocity fields around and inside the obstacle, as well as the velocity profiles.
Multi-Degree of Freedom Propeller Force Models Based on a Neural Network and Regression
Authors: Knight Bradford , Maki Kevin
Published: February 2020

Accurate and efficient prediction of the forces on a propeller is critical for analyzing a maneuvering vessel with numerical methods. CFD methods like RANS, LES, or DES can accurately predict the propeller forces, but are computationally expensive due to the need for added mesh discretization around the propeller as well as the requisite small time-step size. One way of mitigating the expense of modeling a maneuvering vessel with CFD is to apply the propeller force as a body force term in the Navier–Stokes equations and to apply the force to the equations of motion. The applied propeller force should be determined with minimal expense and good accuracy. This paper examines and compares nonlinear regression and neural network predictions of the thrust, torque, and side force of a propeller both in open water and in the behind condition. The methods are trained and tested with RANS CFD simulations. The neural network approach is shown to be more accurate and requires less training data than the regression technique.
Determination of Parameters Describing the Risk Areas of Ships Chaotic Rolling on the Example of LNG Carrier and OSV Vessel
Authors: Guze Sambor , Wawrzynski Wojciech , Wilczynski Przemyslaw
Published: February 2020

One of the significant problems in the safe operation of vessels is the behavior of the ship on the wave. Of all degrees of freedom, the greatest threat to the safety of a ship is associated with excessive rolling. One of the best methods to improve the safety of a ship in this field is to carry out experiments on the ship model, performed at her design stage. The problem is that the model tests are costly. An alternative is to conduct simulation tests based on numerical models. The primary goal of the article is to present the results of the simulation regarding the determination of parameters describing the risk areas of chaotic rolling for the ship designed for transporting liquefied natural gas (LNG carrier) and offshore support vessel (OSV). The first discusses the state of knowledge on mathematical modeling of oscillations. Then, the theory of nonlinear differential equations is presented, and the mathematical model of ship rolling is described. This model is used to prepare and conduct a numerical simulation in the Mathematica package. The results of these studies and their discussion constitute the central part of the article. Finally, the conclusions are presented.
A New Solution for Sea Wave Energy Harvesting, the Proposal of an Ironless Linear Generator
Authors: Curto Domenico , Viola Alessia , Franzitta Vincenzo , Trapanese Marco , Cardona Fabio
Published: February 2020

The paper investigates an innovative ironless linear generator, installable inside a wave energy converter, in order to produce electricity from sea waves. This energy source is considered strategic for the future, especially in small islands; however, this technology is still far from the commercial phase. Considering the wave energy potential of the Mediterranean Sea, a first prototype of the electrical linear generator was realized at the Department of Engineering of Palermo University. This machine can be run by a two-floating buoys system, able to produce a linear vertical motion. The main goal of this paper is the investigation of the advantages and the disadvantages of the utilization of steel materials to realize the stator of linear generators. Thus, starting from the prototype, the authors analyzed the effects produced by the replacement of steel in the stator with a non-magnetic material. For comparison, the authors evaluated the amplitude of no-load voltages, using a three-phase connection scheme, and the amplitude of the magnetic force produced by the interaction of magnets with the stator. Both aspects were evaluated through numerical simulations and mathematical models.
Risk Management Analysis for Novel Coronavirus in Wuhan, China
Authors: Yue Xiao-Guang , Shao Xue-Feng , Li Rita , Crabbe M. , Mi Lili , Hu Siyan , Baker Julien , Liang Gang
Published: February 2020

Recently, a novel coronavirus pneumonia (2019–nCoV) outbreak occurred in Wuhan, China, rapidly spreading first to the whole country, and then globally, causing widespread concern. From the perspectives of early warning and identification of risk, risk monitoring, and analysis, as well as risk management and handling, we propose corresponding solutions and recommendations, which include institutional cooperation, and to inform national and international policy-makers.
“Green” Synthesis of Nanocarbons for Reduced Friction and Wear
Authors: Sarno Maria , Senatore Adolfo , Scarpa Davide , Cirillo Claudia
Published: February 2020

In the following study, green carbon nanotubes and green few-layer reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were synthesized through simple, sustainable, and scalable processes starting from recycled plastic and charcoal, respectively, and with the highest number of steps involving non-harmful substances. After an extensive physicochemical characterization, which evidenced that both nano-carbons exhibit structures comparable with that of materials produced through more traditional methods and from pure sources, the samples were dispersed in two types of conventional base oils, in particular group I and group III, in order to carry out, for the first time on these green nanomaterials, an accurate study on their tribological performance. Tribological tests evidenced a remarkable reduction of coefficient of friction and wear scar diameter, especially for the green rGO dispersed at 0.1 wt% in the group III oil along with SDBS-Tween 80 surfactants mixture: 18% and 15% at ambient temperature, 12% and 13% at 80 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the tribological performance of the synthesized samples in both oils remained high for 160 min of investigation. A comparison with the same material obtained with a traditional synthesis revealed the absence of fouling phenomena in the lubrication chambers in our case, confirming the higher tribological performances of the green rGO sample, probably, as a consequence of its less ordered nature.
Zeolites in Phenol Removal in the Presence of Cu(II) Ions—Comparison of Sorption Properties after Chitosan Modification
Authors: Bandura Lidia , Franus Małgorzata , Madej Jarosław , Kołodyńska Dorota , Hubicki Zbigniew
Published: February 2020

Nowadays, the contamination of water with phenol is a serious environmental problem. This compound occurs very often with heavy metal ions which makes purification of water even more difficult. This article presents the problem of the removal of phenol from aqueous solutions in the presence of Cu(II) ions on synthetic zeolite NaP1 and zeolite NaP1 modified with chitosan. The adsorbents were determined with the use of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherm, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The studies on isotherms and batch kinetics under diversified experimental conditions with respect to initial concentration, contact time, and pH were discussed. Both Cu(II) and phenol adsorption increases with the initial concentration. Different isotherm models correspond well with the data acquired through experiments. The kinetics of adsorption follows the pseudo-second order rate equation. The studies indicate that the obtained sorbents can be employed for efficient removal of phenol from wastewater in the presence of Cu(II) ions.
Bacteria Exposed to Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Laser Ablation in Water: Modelling E. coli Growth and Inactivation
Authors: Krce Lucija , Šprung Matilda , Maravić Ana , Umek Polona , Salamon Krešimir , Krstulović Nikša , Aviani Ivica
Published: February 2020

This study is aimed to better understand the bactericidal mode of action of silver nanoparticles. Here we present the production and characterization of laser-synthesized silver nanoparticles along with growth curves of bacteria treated at sub-minimal and minimal inhibitory concentrations, obtained by optical density measurements. The main effect of the treatment is the increase of the bacterial apparent lag time, which is very well described by the novel growth model as well as the entire growth curves for different concentrations. The main assumption of the model is that the treated bacteria uptake the nanoparticles and inactivate, which results in the decrease of both the nanoparticles and the bacteria concentrations. The lag assumes infinitive value for the minimal inhibitory concentration treatment. This apparent lag phase is not postponed bacterial growth. It is a dynamic state in which the bacterial growth and death rates are close in value. Our results strongly suggest that the predominant mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles is the penetration inside the membrane.
Flexible and Electroactive Ionogel Graphene Composite Actuator
Authors: Lu Chao , Chen Xi
Published: February 2020

Electrochemical actuators have attracted tremendous attention worldwide because of their critical significance to artificial intelligence. The development of electrochemical actuators—with the merits of low driven-voltage, lightweight, flexibility and large deformation—is an urgent task in the development of smart technologies. Nanomaterials with special structures and superior properties provide the opportunity for the development and application of smart actuators. Here, we report an electrochemical actuator based on an ionogel graphene composite, which is assembled with simple casting methodology and can be driven with a low voltage of 2.5 V. The flexible sandwich-structured actuator operates under a capacitive mechanism based on asymmetrical volume expansion of active ions under electrical stimulus. It shows a high specific capacitance of 39 F g−1 at current density of 1 A g−1 under potential of 2.5 V. The specific capacitance is calculated on the weight of graphene. The device presents a large actuation peak-to-peak displacement of 24 mm at a frequency of 0.1 Hz under the stimulus potential of 2.5 V, and it can still reach a large value of 12 mm at a high frequency of 1 Hz. The free length of the device is 25 mm. Notably, the device exhibits excellent air-working stability at frequency of 1 Hz under 2.5 V with the actuation displacement retention of 98%, even after 10,000 cycles. This study presents insights into the design of smart actuators based on nanomaterials, and will accelerate the development of artificial intelligence.
Modified Chitosan for Silver Recovery—Kinetics, Thermodynamic, and Equilibrium Studies
Authors: Pascu Bogdan , Ardean Cristina , Davidescu Corneliu Mircea , Negrea Adina , Ciopec Mihaela , Duțeanu Narcis , Negrea Petru , Rusu Gerlinde
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate the silver recovery from aqueous solutions. There are a variety of recovery methods, such as hydrometallurgical, bio-metallurgical, cementation, reduction, electrocoagulation, electrodialysis, ion exchange, etc. Adsorption represents a convenient, environment friendly procedure, that can be used to recover silver from aqueous solutions. In this paper we highlight the silver adsorption mechanism on chitosan chemically modified with active groups, through kinetic, thermodynamic, and equilibrium studies. A maximum adsorption capacity of 103.6 mg Ag(I)/g of adsorbent for an initial concentration of 700 mg/L was noticed by using modified chitosan. Lower adsorption capacity has been noticed in unmodified chitosan—a maximum of 75.43 mg Ag(I)/g. Optimum contact time was 120 min and the process had a maximum efficiency when conducted at pH higher than 6. At the same time, a way is presented to obtain metallic silver from the adsorbent materials used for the recovery of the silver from aqueous solutions.
Effects of Heating Temperature on the Properties of Bio-Board Manufactured by Using Soybean Straw
Authors: Song Xiaowen , Wang Xiulun , Kito Koji
Published: February 2020

The objective of this paper is to effectively use soybean straw biomass resources and decrease the negative effects of using synthetic resin. Soybean straw was ground through a wet process then hot-pressed to make biodegradable fiberboard (bio-board) without any binder. The effect of heating temperature on mechanical properties and dimensional stability performance of produced bio-board was investigated. Bonding quality and chemical changes of the bio-board were also evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The moisture content decreased from 12.5% to 3.4% with the increase of heating temperature. Meanwhile, most mechanical properties of bio-board improved. However, an excessive heating temperature, especially at 230 °C, did not significantly promote the improvement of most mechanical properties. However, the dimensional stability performance of the bio-board was greatly improved from 140 °C to 230 °C. Overall, the results showed that bio-board could be made by using soybean straw without any synthetic resin. Heating temperature plays a significant role in affecting the properties of bio-board. The refined bio-board is expected to be used as a packaging material, heat insulation in architecture, and mulch film for agricultural purposes.
Online Batch Scheduling of Simple Linear Deteriorating Jobs with Incompatible Families
Authors: Li Wenhua , Wang Libo , Chai Xing , Yuan Hang
Published: February 2020

We considered the online scheduling problem of simple linear deteriorating job families on m parallel batch machines to minimize the makespan, where the batch capacity is unbounded. In this paper, simple linear deteriorating jobs mean that the actual processing time p j of job J j is assumed to be a linear function of its starting time s j , i.e., p j = α j s j , where α j > 0 is the deterioration rate. Job families mean that one job must belong to some job family, and jobs of different families cannot be processed in the same batch. When m = 1 , we provide the best possible online algorithm with the competitive ratio of ( 1 + α max ) f , where f is the number of job families and α max is the maximum deterioration rate of all jobs. When m ≥ 1 and m = f , we provide the best possible online algorithm with the competitive ratio of 1 + α max .
Local Convergence for Multi-Step High Order Solvers under Weak Conditions
Authors: Behl Ramandeep , Argyros Ioannis K.
Published: February 2020

Our aim in this article is to suggest an extended local convergence study for a class of multi-step solvers for nonlinear equations valued in a Banach space. In comparison to previous studies, where they adopt hypotheses up to 7th Fŕechet-derivative, we restrict the hypotheses to only first-order derivative of considered operators and Lipschitz constants. Hence, we enlarge the suitability region of these solvers along with computable radii of convergence. In the end of this study, we choose a variety of numerical problems which illustrate that our works are applicable but not earlier to solve nonlinear problems.
Mining Natural Product Biosynthesis in Eukaryotic Algae
Authors: O’Neill Ellis
Published: February 2020

Eukaryotic algae are an extremely diverse category of photosynthetic organisms and some species produce highly potent bioactive compounds poisonous to humans or other animals, most notably observed during harmful algal blooms. These natural products include some of the most poisonous small molecules known and unique cyclic polyethers. However, the diversity and complexity of algal genomes means that sequencing-based research has lagged behind research into more readily sequenced microbes, such as bacteria and fungi. Applying informatics techniques to the algal genomes that are now available reveals new natural product biosynthetic pathways, with different groups of algae containing different types of pathways. There is some evidence for gene clusters and the biosynthetic logic of polyketides enables some prediction of these final products. For other pathways, it is much more challenging to predict the products and there may be many gene clusters that are not identified with the automated tools. These results suggest that there is a great diversity of biosynthetic capacity for natural products encoded in the genomes of algae and suggest areas for future research focus.
Novel Vibrio spp. Strains Producing Omega-3 Fatty Acids Isolated from Coastal Seawater
Authors: Estupiñán Mónica , Hernández Igor , Saitua Eduardo , Bilbao M. Elisabete , Mendibil Iñaki , Ferrer Jorge , Alonso-Sáez Laura
Published: February 2020

Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (22:6n-3), are considered essential for human health. Microorganisms are the primary producers of omega-3 fatty acids in marine ecosystems, representing a sustainable source of these lipids, as an alternative to the fish industry. Some marine bacteria can produce LC-PUFAs de novo via the Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid (Pfa) synthase/ Polyketide Synthase (PKS) pathway, which does not require desaturation and elongation of saturated fatty acids. Cultivation-independent surveys have revealed that the diversity of microorganisms harboring a molecular marker of the pfa gene cluster (i.e., pfaA-KS domain) is high and their potential distribution in marine systems is widespread, from surface seawater to sediments. However, the isolation of PUFA producers from marine waters has been typically restricted to deep or cold environments. Here, we report a phenotypic and genotypic screening for the identification of omega-3 fatty acid producers in free-living bacterial strains isolated from 5, 500, and 1000 m deep coastal seawater from the Bay of Biscay (Spain). We further measured EPA production in pelagic Vibrio sp. strains collected at the three different depths. Vibrio sp. EPA-producers and non-producers were simultaneously isolated from the same water samples and shared a high percentage of identity in their 16S rRNA genes, supporting the view that the pfa gene cluster can be horizontally transferred. Within a cluster of EPA-producers, we found intraspecific variation in the levels of EPA synthesis for isolates harboring different genetic variants of the pfaA-KS domain. The maximum production of EPA was found in a Vibrio sp. strain isolated from a 1000 m depth (average 4.29% ± 1.07 of total fatty acids at 10 °C, without any optimization of culturing conditions).
A Novel Germanium-Around-Source Gate-All-Around Tunnelling Field-Effect Transistor for Low-Power Applications
Authors: Han Ke , Long Shanglin , Deng Zhongliang , Zhang Yannan , Li Jiawei
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a germanium-around-source gate-all-around tunnelling field-effect transistor (GAS GAA TFET). The electrical characteristics of the device were studied and compared with those of silicon gate-all-around and germanium-based-source gate-all-around tunnel field-effect transistors. Furthermore, the electrical characteristics were optimised using Synopsys Sentaurus technology computer-aided design (TCAD). The GAS GAA TFET contains a combination of around-source germanium and silicon, which have different bandgaps. With an increase in the gate-source voltage, band-to-band tunnelling (BTBT) in silicon rapidly approached saturation since germanium has a higher BTBT probability than silicon. At this moment, germanium could still supply current increment, resulting in a steady and steep average subthreshold swing ( S S AVG ) and a higher ON-state current. The GAS GAA TFET was optimised through work function and drain overlapping engineering. The optimised GAS GAA TFET exhibited a high ON-state current ( I ON ) (11.9 μ A), a low OFF-state current ( I OFF ) ( 2.85 × 10 − 9 μ A), and a low and steady S S AVG (57.29 mV/decade), with the OFF-state current increasing by 10 7 times. The GAS GAA TFET has high potential for use in low-power applications.
Aluminium Drinking Water Treatment Residuals and Their Toxic Impact on Human Health
Authors: Krupińska Izabela
Published: February 2020

Aluminium exerts undeniable human health effects, so its concentration should be controlled in water treatment plants. The article presents and discusses the results of studies on the influence of selected properties of aluminium coagulants on the concentration of aluminium remaining in the purified water. The coagulants used were classical hydrolysing aluminium salts: aluminium sulphate (VI) and sodium aluminate as well as pre-hydrolysed polyaluminium chlorides: Flokor 105B and PAX XL10 that had different the alkalinity coefficient r = [OH−]/[Al3+]. The Al species distribution in the coagulants samples were analysed by the Ferron complexation timed spectrophotometry. On the basis of their reaction rates with ferron reagent, the aluminium species were divided into three categories: monomeric (Ala), medium polymerised (Alb) and colloidal (Alc). The usefulness of the tested aluminium coagulants due to the concentration of residual aluminium and dissolved aluminium, which is easily assimilated by the human body, was increased according to the following series: sodium aluminate (Ala = 100%, Alb = 0) < aluminium sulphate (VI) (Ala = 91%, Alb = 9%) < PAX XL 10 (Ala = 6%, Alb = 28%, r = 2.10) < Flokor 105B (Ala = 3%, Alb = 54%, r = 2.55).
Increasing Susceptibility of Drug-Resistant Candida albicans to Fluconazole and Terbinafine by 2(5H)-Furanone Derivative
Authors: Sharafutdinov Irshad S. , Ozhegov Georgii D. , Sabirova Alina E. , Novikova Valentina V. , Lisovskaya Svetlana A. , Khabibrakhmanova Alsu M. , Kurbangalieva Almira R. , Bogachev Mikhail I. , Kayumov Airat R.
Published: February 2020

The frequency of mycoses caused by drug-resistant fungal pathogen Candida albicans has increased drastically over the last two decades. The spread of drug-resistant strains, along with the limitations of currently available antifungals, complicates the management of fungal infections, thereby representing great challenges for clinical healthcare. Among various antimicrobial pharmacophores, 2(5H)-furanone derivatives have demonstrated antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibiofilm activities. In this study, we report the antifungal activity of the 2(5H)-furanone derivative F105, consisting of three pharmacophores, namely chlorinated 2(5H)-furanone, sulfonyl group, and l-menthol moiety. Although exhibiting moderate antifungal activity alone with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 32–256 μg/mL, F105 potentiates the activity of fluconazole and terbinafine with fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values of 0.27–0.50. Thus, 16 μg/mL of F105 reduced the MICs of these antifungals against fluconazole-resistant C. albicans isolates four-fold, achieving similar values as for the intermediately susceptible phenotype. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the fluorescent 2(5H)-furanone derivative F145 was also able to penetrate through biofilms formed by C. albicans. Indeed, in the presence of F105, even sub-MIC concentrations of both fluconazole and terbinafine led to significant reduction of C. albicans CFUs in the mature biofilm. Thus, F105 appears to be a promising candidate for the development of novel antifungal agents as well as enhancers of current antifungal agents, particularly for the treatment of drug-resistant C. albicans infections.
A SnO2/CeO2 Nano-Composite Catalyst for Alizarin Dye Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Hassan Saad S. M. , Kamel Ayman H. , Hassan Amr A. , Amr Abd El-Galil E. , El-Naby Heba Abd , Elsayed Elsayed A.
Published: February 2020

A new SnO2/CeO2 nano-composite catalyst was synthesized, characterized and used for the removal of alizarin dyes from aqueous solutions. The composite material was prepared using a precipitation method. X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller methodology (BET) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (ATR-FTIR) were utilized for the characterization of the prepared composite. The prepared nano-composite revealed high affinity for the adsorption and decomposition of alizarin dyes. The adsorption capacity under different experimental conditions (adsorbate concentration, contact time, adsorbent dose and pH) was examined. Under optimized experimental conditions, the removal of alizarin yellow, alizarin red and alizarin-3-methylimino-diacetic acid dyes from aqueous solutions was about 96.4%,87.8% and 97.3%, respectively. The adsorption isotherms agreed with the models of Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms.
Controlling the Transverse Magneto-Optical Kerr Effect in Cr/NiFe Bilayer Thin Films by Changing the Thicknesses of the Cr Layer
Authors: Hashim Hisham , Kozhaev Mikhail , Kapralov Pavel , Panina Larissa , Belotelov Vladimir , Víšová Ivana , Chvostová Dagmar , Dejneka Alexandr , Shpetnyi Ihor , Latyshev Vitalii , Vorobiov Serhii , Komanický Vladimír
Published: February 2020

Here, we demonstrate the impact of ferromagnetic layer coating on controlling the magneto-optical response. We found that the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect (TMOKE) signal and TMOKE hysteresis loops of Ni80Fe20 thin layers coated with a Cr layer show a strong dependence on the thickness of the Cr layer and the incidence angle of the light. The transmission and reflection spectra were measured over a range of incidence angles and with different wavelengths so as to determine the layers’ optical parameters and to explain the TMOKE behavior. The generalized magneto-optical and ellipsometry (GMOE) model based on modified Abeles characteristic matrices was used to examine the agreement between the experimental and theoretical results. A comprehensive theoretical and experimental analysis reveals the possibility to create a TMOKE suppression/enhancement coating at specific controllable incidence angles. This has potential for applications in optical microscopy and sensors.