bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of mean ocular perfusion pressure on primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Sen Pallab Kumar , Khan Nazneen , Islam Md. Shafiqul
Published: December 2018

Primary open angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma and it remains asymptomatic until the late stage of the disease. The purpose of this study is to compare the mean ocular perfusion pressure with the primary open angle glaucoma. A total of 60 study subjects were divided into two following groups: a) newly diagnosed patients with primary open angle glaucoma (case) and b) age and sex-matched healthy volunteers (control). The intraocular pressure and blood pressure were measured 3 hourly from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. The mean ocular perfusion pressure of the right eyes in untreated primary open angle glaucoma was 39.9 ± 7.5 mm Hg whereas it was 47.7 ± 7.7 mm Hg in the control. The odds ratio was 6.6 (95% CI, 2.1-20.5; p=0.002). The right eyes of untreated primary open angle glaucoma had 6.6 times more risk compared to the control group. The mean ocular perfusion pressure of left eyes in untreated primary open angle glaucoma was 39.9 ± 7.5 mm Hg and 48.6 ± 4.0 mm Hg in the control group. The odds ratio was 5.7 (95% CI, 1.8-17.5; p=0.004). The left eyes of untreated primary open angle glaucoma had 5.7 times more risk compared to control group. The findings revealed the evidence of vascular mechanism in glaucoma pathogenesis: Reduction of mean ocular perfusion pressure ≤48 mm Hg, may lead to daily repetitive ischemic insult to the optic nerve.
WHO Guidelines and Our Curriculum
Authors: Badruddoza Md
Published: December 2018

Abstract not available

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 2
Profile of Patients Receiving Stroke Rehabilitation in A Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Chakraborty Prasanta Kumar , Islam Md Jahidul , Hossain Md Shahadat , Barua Sunam Kumar , Rahman Sohely
Published: December 2018

Background: Stroke rehabilitation is a program designed to help the stroke patients to overcome the disability. Few studies have evaluated the profile of stroke patients. To provide information about demographic data & disease pattern among the patients receiving stroke rehabilitation.

Methods: A retrospective study was carried out in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), National Institute of Neuroscience and Hospital (NINSH) Dhaka, Bangladesh for the period of two year from 1st July 2013 to 30th June, 2015.

Results: Total five thousand nine hundred thirty nine (n=5939) patients were studied, of which 62.33% were male and 37.67% were female. Maximum patients (27.93%) belong to 51-60 years of age. Major patients (52.67%) came from Dhaka city and most of the studied patients were housewife (25.43%). Largest disease group was ischaemic stroke (81.7%). Regarding service pattern, 69.59% patients received outdoor and 30.41% indoor services. Among clinical profile of stroke, 90.5% were first time onset, almost 99% suffered limb weakness, 24.03% speech problem and 32.6% face involvement. Maximum patients (58.8%) had history of multiple risk factors.

Conclusion: Rehabilitation procedures in stroke patients can enable greater return of neurological functions and prevents complication, thereby improves long term outcome and quality of life.

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 9-12
Efficacy and Safety Profile of Extended Release Tolterodine in Symptomatic Overactive Bladder
Authors: Rahman Md Mofizur , Islam AKM Anwarul , Rouf Hasan Md Abdur , Kibria SAMS Golam
Published: December 2018

Background: Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a debilitating medical condition having the symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency with or without urge incontinence. Tolterodine was the first drug developed specifically for the treatment of OAB. It is a competitive muscarinic antagonist that exhibits similar affinities for muscarinic receptor subtypes M1 to M3. Tolterodine may be a more target specific drug that possesses stronger selectivity for the urinary bladder than for the salivary glands. In a pilot study in healthy volunteers, tolterodine was well-tolerated and showed greater function than on salivation.

Objectives: To study the efficacy of tolterodine (ER) in relieving symptoms of overactive bladder with its adverse effects to determine the safety of the drug.

Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Urology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong, Bangladesh, from March, 2014 to June, 2015. Purposive sampling was done. Bladder diary was used for evaluating the symptoms of the patient during baseline and 08 weeks follow up. Perceived level of benefit of the patients was assessed and graded using Likert scale. Data analysis was conducted by SPSS version-21.

Results: Out of 80 patients, 19 (23.75%) were male and 62 (76.25%) were female with a male: female ratio 1:3.2. The study revealed that the most of the patients, 48 (60.0%) were subjected to much benefit followed by 23 (28.75%) patients experienced little benefit and 09 (11.25%) patients with no benefit from the treatment.

Conclusion: With mild form of side effects tolterodine showed a significant level of efficacy on overactive bladder.

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 34-37
A Comparative Study of Smooth Insertion of Laryngeal Mask Airway with Propofol and Thiopentone Combined with Midazolam
Authors: Khatoon Syeda Nafisa , Tipu Md Rezaul Hoque , Hasan Sanjida , Billah KM Baki , Chowdhury Gulshan Ara , Alam AKM Shamsul
Published: December 2018

Background: Successful insertion of Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) requires sufficient depth of anesthesia and depression of airway reflexes to avoid gagging, coughing and laryngeal spasm. The LMA is popular because it is easy to insert and it provides a secure airway for the patients who breathe spontaneously. Indeed, the intravent LMA instruction manual specifically recommends propofol for induction of anesthesia during LMA insertion. As a matter of fact Propofol and LMA insertion has become synonymous. However, there are some problems related to the use of propofol, for example, relatively high cost. This observational study was conducted to compare efficacy and safety of propofol and thiopentone -midazolam in smooth insertion of LMA and the hemodynamic changes over time in both groups.

Methods: The study was done in the Department of Anesthesiology, Chittagong Medical College from July, 2012 to December, 2013. All the patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures under general anesthesia fulfilling the inclusion criteria, were the study population. Data was analyzed by computer based software SPSS-21. Results: Overall LMA insertion condition was improved better by the use of midazolam with thiopentone sodium (Group B) than propofol (Group A). The drug regime used in group A (Propofol) was expensive than group B (midazolam with thiopentone sodium) with indifferent hemodynamic stability in both groups. Mean ages of patients were 32.43 years ± SD- 10.67 years in group A and 33.5 years ± SD- 10.63 years in group B.

Conclusion: In the perspective of our study, for smooth insertion of LMA midazolam-thiopentone sodium regime is cheaper and can be effectively and safely used over propofol regime.

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 38-41
Prevalence of Urinary Tract Infection in Patient with Indwelling Catheter in Chittagong Medical College Hospital
Authors: Akter Raushan , Hassan Mahtab Uddin , Biswas Rajat Sankar Roy
Published: December 2018

Background: Hospital acquired urinary tract infection among the hospitalized catheterized patient due to different indications are a common morbility. The objective of study to see the prevalence hospital acquired urinary tract infection among the patients of indwelling catheter admitted in the department Medicine of Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

Methods: It was a hospital based obsevational study conducted on purposively selected (Non-probability) hospitalized patients who got indwelling catheter had admitted into the Medicine ward, Chittagong Medical College Hospital from 1st January 2013 to 30th June 2013. Total 50 patients were selected. Urine was analyzed for growth of organism and sensitivity was also done in case where growth was positive. Data was analyzed by statistical method with the software SPSS-20.

Results: Results showed that 15 (30%) developed bacteriuria or urinary tract infection with catheter. Development of bacteriuria was not affected by sex, age. People who introduce the catheter has some influence with the occurrence of UTI. E.coli, Klebsella, Proteas and Pseudomonas aeroginosa were the most common bacteria isolated. Imepenam was found the most sensitive antibiotic.

Conclusion: Catheter play an important risk for occurrence of UTI. So it should be avoided if possible.

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 42-45
The Relationship Between Diabetes and Depression
Authors: Chowdhury Sumon Rahman , Barua Shangkar , Kamal Abu Hena Mostafa
Published: December 2018

Evidence of a bidirectional relationship between depression and diabetes has recently been documented in large prospective studies. Comorbid depression is associated with an increased risk of poor glycemic control, diabetes complications and mortality. Moreover, incident diabetes has also been found to be risk factors for subsequent development of depressive episodes. Furthermore, in a recent systematic review, depression is associated with the subsequent development of T2DM by up to 37% as it causes central obesity, increased release of circulating corticosteroid hormone (which antagonizes the action of insulin) and insulin resistance that is a more common etiological pathway for the development of T2DM. Subsequently, the presence of depression with diabetes has a severe impact for self-care management and long term outcome which includes long term disturbance of mood. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to explain the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and depression and explore the management options that are advocated to enhance the Diabetes self-management education and improve the quality of life for diabetic patients with depression

Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.17 (1); Jan 2018; Page 50-54
Salt and Pepper Noise Removal with Multi-Class Dictionary Learning and L0 Norm Regularizations
Authors: Guo Di , Tu Zhangren , Wang Jiechao , Xiao Min , Du Xiaofeng , Qu Xiaobo
Published: December 2018

Images may be corrupted by salt and pepper impulse noise during image acquisitions or transmissions. Although promising denoising performances have been recently obtained with sparse representations, how to restore high-quality images remains challenging and open. In this work, image sparsity is enhanced with a fast multiclass dictionary learning, and then both the sparsity regularization and robust data fidelity are formulated as minimizations of L0-L0 norms for salt and pepper impulse noise removal. Additionally, a numerical algorithm of modified alternating direction minimization is derived to solve the proposed denoising model. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the compared state-of-the-art ones on preserving image details and achieving higher objective evaluation criteria.
Methodology to Solve the Combination of the Generalized Assignment Problem and the Vehicle Routing Problem: A Case Study in Drug and Medical Instrument Sales and Service
Authors: Thongkham Malichan , Kaewman Sasitorn
Published: December 2018

This article presents algorithms for solving a special case of the vehicle routing problem (VRP). We define our proposed problem of a special VRP case as a combination of two hard problems: the generalized assignment and the vehicle routing problem. The different evolution (DE) algorithm is used to solve the problem. The recombination process of the original DE is modified by adding two more sets of vectors—best vector and random vector—and using two other sets—target vector and trial vector. The linear probability formula is proposed to potentially use one out of the four sets of vectors. This is called the modified DE (MDE) algorithm. Two local searches are integrated into the MDE algorithm: exchange and insert. These procedures create a DE and MDE that use (1) no local search techniques, (2) two local search techniques, (3) only the exchange procedure, and (4) only the insert procedure. This generates four DE algorithms and four MDE algorithms. The proposed methods are tested with 15 tested instances and one case study. The current procedure is compared with all proposed heuristics. The computational result shows that, in the case study, the best DE algorithm (DE-4) has a 1.6% better solution than that of the current practice, whereas the MDE algorithm is 8.2% better. The MDE algorithm that uses the same local search as the DE algorithms generates a maximum 5.814% better solution than that of the DE algorithms.
Antioxidant Capacity and Phytonutrient Content in the Seed Coat and Cotyledon of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) from Various Regions in Mexico
Authors: Chávez-Mendoza Celia , Hernández-Figueroa Karla Ivonne , Sánchez Esteban
Published: December 2018

The common bean is a good source of protein and bioactive substances giving it a large antioxidant capacity. The extensive variability of bean genotypes creates the need to characterize them with regard to their nutritional value as a tool in biofortification programs. The purpose of this study was to obtain the antioxidant capacity and phytonutrient content both in the seed coat and the cotyledon of 12 common bean varieties from different regions in Mexico. In the case of the whole seed, lightness (L*), a* (red-purple) and b* (yellow-purple) color coordinates were determined, as well as the chroma and hue angle. In the case of the seed coat and the cotyledon, the protein content, the phytonutrient content and the antioxidant capacity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)) were evaluated. A significant difference was observed (p ≤ 0.05) among bean varieties and between seed coat and cotyledon in all variables evaluated. Cotyledon showed a higher content of protein, H, Ni, Zn, Cu, N, P, K S and Mn, while the seed coat showed a higher content of Fe, Ca and Mg and a greater antioxidant capacity (59.99%). The Higuera Azufrado bean variety stood out as having a higher content of N, S and protein. We have concluded that the nutritional characterization performed on Mexican bean varieties represents a valuable tool for genetic enhancement programs and crop biofortification strategies.
Mammary Stem Cells in Domestic Animals: The Role of ROS
Authors: Baratta Mario , Miretti Silvia , Macchi Elisabetta , Accornero Paolo , Martignani Eugenio
Published: December 2018

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced as a natural byproduct of the normal metabolism of oxygen and play significant roles in cell signaling and homeostasis. Although ROS have been involved in pathological processes as diverse as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and aging, they may to exert an effect even in a physiological context. In the central nervous system, stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells are early progenitors that contain lower levels of ROS than their more mature progeny. These different concentrations have been reported to be crucial for maintaining stem cell function. Mammary gland remodeling has been proposed to be organized through the activation and regulation of cells with stemness, either considered real stem cells or primitive precursors. Given the state of oxidative stress in the mammary gland tissue induced by high milk production, in particular in highly productive dairy cows; several studies have focused on the relationship between adult mammary stem cells and the oxidative state of the gland. The oxidative state of the mammary gland appears to be involved in the initial development and metastasis of breast cancer through interference with mammary cancerous stem cells. This review summarizes some links between the mammary stem and oxidative state of the gland.
A Review on Nanoparticles as Boon for Biogas Producers—Nano Fuels and Biosensing Monitoring
Authors: Faisal Shah , Yusuf Hafeez Fauzia , Zafar Yusuf , Majeed Sabahat , Leng Xiaoyun , Zhao Shuai , Saif Irfan , Malik Kamran , Li Xiangkai
Published: December 2018

Nanotechnology has an increasingly large impact on a broad scope of biotechnological, pharmacological and pure technological applications. Its current use in bioenergy production from biomass is very restricted. The present study is based on the utilization of nanoparticles as an additive to feed bacteria that break down natural substances. The novel notion of dosing ions using modified nanoparticles can be used to progress up biogas production in oxygen free digestion processes. While minute nanoparticles are unstable, they can be designed to provide ions in a controlled approach, so that the maximum enhancement of biogas production that has been reported can be obtained. Nanoparticles are dissolved in a programmed way in an anaerobic atmosphere and are supplied in a sustainable manner to microbiotic organisms responsible for the degradation of organic material, which is a role that fits them well. Therefore, biogas fabrication can be increased up to 200%, thereby increasing the degradation of organic waste.
Efficacy of Indigenously Prepared Sugarcane and Pineapple Wine Solvents for Washing Highly Dioxin-Contaminated Field Soils
Authors: Vu Chi , Tran Huu , Kaewlaoyoong Acharee , Huang Wen-Yen , Lin Chitsan
Published: December 2018

Poly-chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and poly-chlorinated dibenzo-furans (PCDFs) negatively affect human health and are often found as unwanted by-products of chemical handling and manufacture procedures. While commercial solvents have been used to remove dioxins from contaminated soil, these solvents themselves may adversely affect soil health. In this study, we examined the effects of washing highly PCDD/F contaminated field-soil with two natural solvents (sugarcane and pineapple wine) under ambient temperature. Performing an initial three-washing-cycle experiment, we found that sugarcane wine more effectively removed the contaminants than pineapple wine (removal, 60% vs. 50%) and chose it to perform a six-washing-cycle experiment facilitated by mechanical stirring and ultrasonication. Sugarcane wine was found to have a high removal efficiency (almost 80%), largely due to its higher alcohol and acid content. We believe that both wines can be used in soil remediation tasks without further damage to soil health. This is the first study employing naturally made wines as soil washing solvents in treating highly PCDD/F contaminated field soil. After soil washing processes, the winery solvents are believed to be beneficial to (if necessary) bioremediation methods and/or monitored natural attenuation.
Joint Stiffness Identification and Deformation Compensation of Serial Robots Based on Dual Quaternion Algebra
Authors: Li Guozhi , Zhang Fuhai , Fu Yili , Wang Shuguo
Published: December 2018

As the application of industrial robots is limited by low stiffness that causes low precision, a joint stiffness identification algorithm for serial robots is presented. In addition, a deformation compensation algorithm is proposed for the accuracy improvement. Both of these algorithms are formulated by dual quaternion algebra, which offers a compact, efficient, and singularity-free way in robot analysis. The joint stiffness identification algorithm is derived from stiffness modeling, which is the combination of the principle of virtual work and dual quaternion algebra. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed identification algorithm and deformation compensation algorithm, an experiment was conducted on a dual arm industrial robot SDA5F. The robot performed a drilling operation during the experiment, and the forces and torques that acted on the end-effector (EE) of both arms were measured in order to apply the deformation compensation algorithm. The results of the experiment show that the proposed identification algorithm is able to identify the joint stiffness parameters of serial industrial robots, and the deformation compensation algorithm can improve the accuracy of the position and orientation of the EE. Furthermore, the performance of the forces and torques that acted on the EE during the operation were improved as well.
In Vitro Properties for Bioceramics Composed of Silica and Titanium Oxide Composites
Authors: Chen I-Hao , Lian Meng-Jia , Fang Wei , Huang Bo-Rui , Liu Tzu-Hao , Chen Jhih-An , Huang Chih-Ling , Lee Tzer-Min
Published: December 2018

It is important for oral and maxillofacial surgeons to repair craniofacial defects on oral cancer patients or patients with congenital problems. Thus, it is a challenge to develop biomaterials that promote bone regeneration as potential materials for bone repair. This work is devoted to the fabrication of bioceramics composed of silica and titanium oxide with various concentrations of titanium oxide for developing bone repair materials for dentistry and tissue engineering. The silica-based bioceramics were synthesized using the sol–gel method, and titanium oxide was added from the hydrolysis of tetrabutyl titanate. The surface morphology was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition was measured using an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, and the crystal structure was identified by using an X-ray diffraction diffractometer. The pH value and ion concentrations released in simulated body fluids after immersion with bioceramic samples were measured using a pH meter and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, respectively. In the cell toxicity test, the human osteosarcoma cells (MG63) were used and quantitatively assessed using an MTT assay. The results showed that the proposed bioceramics can be controlled by tuning the Si/Ti ratio to modify the dissolution rate of samples and enhance the formation of apatite. Compared to Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium (DMEM) groups, the cell number of the BG_Ti75 group can be increased to 120%. Furthermore, BG_Ti75 can promote MG63 cell growth with statistical significance and keep the pH value and the released calcium ion concentrations of the soaking environment stable. The proposed bioceramics show potential for bone-regenerating capability.
Analysis of the Hydrodynamic Effects of Gas Permeation in a Pilot-Scale Fluidized Bed Membrane Reactor
Authors: Bai Chenxi , Xiao Yao , Peng Ruifeng , Grace John R. , Chen Yumin
Published: December 2018

This study experimentally investigates the effects of gas extraction/addition, via multiple vertical membrane panels, on the hydrodynamics in different regions of a pilot-scale gas fluidized bed membrane reactor (FBMR), based on differential pressure signals measured at different vertical bed sections at high temperature. In a bed section where membrane panels were installed and activated, the extraction of gas caused the average bubble size to increase, but decreased the number of small- and medium-sized bubbles. This effect of gas extraction penetrated into bed sections above the active membrane panel, but attenuated with increasing distance away from the extraction location. The attenuation rate was much faster in FBMR with lower bed voidage, mainly due to the large decrease of the drag force exerted by gas extraction on fluidizing gas in a denser bed. With the same inlet gas velocity, gas addition favored the growth of bubbles, especially in the upper bed sections compared with operation without gas permeation. The increase of the effective fluidizing velocity was the major reason for the increase of the bubble size during gas addition. These findings preliminarily suggest that membrane units should not be installed in or below fast-reacting zones in a scale-up FBMR, and operation with a lower bed voidage is preferable to avoid the formation of large bubbles enhanced by gas extraction.
Influence of Submergence on Stabilization of Loess in Shaanxi Province by Adding Fly Ash
Authors: Phoak Samnang , Luo Ya-Sheng , Li Sheng-Nan , Yin Qian
Published: December 2018

In this study, the influence of fly ash (FA) content (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) on the alteration in the physical and mechanical parameters of loess is investigated. The influences of curing time (0, 14, and 28 days) and submergence and non-submergence conditions are analyzed as well. Analysis considers the variation in Atterberg limits (liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index), compaction parameters (optimum moisture content (OMC), and maximum dry density (MDD)), unconfined compressive strength (UCS) stress, UCS strain, California bearing ratio (CBR) value, and swell potential. Results show that the application of FA-stabilized loess (FASL) is effective. Specifically, the MDD decreases and the OMC increases, the UCS stress increases and the UCS strain decreases, the CBR value improves and the swell potential declines, but Atterberg limits are insignificantly changed by the increase in the FA ratio compared with those of untreated loess. The UCS stress and CBR value are improved with the increase in curing time, whereas the UCS strain is negligible. FASL under submergence condition plays an important role in improving the effect of FA on the UCS stress and CBR value compared with that under non-submergence condition. The UCS stress and CBR value are more increased and more decreased than the UCS strain in submerged samples. Therefore, the application of FASL in flood areas is important for obtaining sustainable construction materials and ensuring environmental protection.
Photoinduced Dynamics of Commensurate Charge Density Wave in 1T-TaS2 Based on Three-Orbital Hubbard Model
Authors: Ikeda Tatsuhiko N. , Tsunetsugu Hirokazu , Yonemitsu Kenji
Published: December 2018

We study the coupled charge-lattice dynamics in the commensurate charge density wave (CDW) phase of the layered compound 1T-TaS 2 driven by an ultrashort laser pulse. For describing its electronic structure, we employ a tight-binding model of previous studies including the effects of lattice distortion associated with the CDW order. We further add on-site Coulomb interactions and reproduce an energy gap at the Fermi level within a mean-field analysis. On the basis of coupled equations of motion for electrons and the lattice distortion, we numerically study their dynamics driven by an ultrashort laser pulse. We find that the CDW order decreases and even disappears during the laser irradiation while the lattice distortion is almost frozen. We also find that the lattice motion sets in on a longer time scale and causes a further decrease in the CDW order even after the laser irradiation.
Propagation Property of an Astigmatic sin–Gaussian Beam in a Strongly Nonlocal Nonlinear Media
Authors: Zhu Kaicheng , Zhu Jie , Su Qin , Tang Huiqin
Published: December 2018

Based on the Snyder and Mitchell model, a closed-form propagation expression of astigmatic sin-Gaussian beams through strongly nonlocal nonlinear media (SNNM) is derived. The evolutions of the intensity distributions and the corresponding wave front dislocations are discussed analytically and numerically. It is generally proved that the light field distribution varies periodically with the propagation distance. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the astigmatism and edge dislocation nested in the initial sin-Gaussian beams greatly influence the pattern configurations and phase singularities during propagation. In particular, it is found that, when the beam parameters are properly selected, a vortex beam with perfect doughnut-shaped profile can be obtained for astigmatic sin-Gaussian beams with two-lobe pattern propagating in SNNM.
Performance Study and Efficiency Improvement of Ice Slurry Production by Scraped-Surface Method
Authors: Liu Xi , Li Yueling , Zhuang Kunyu , Fu Ruansong , Lin Shi , Li Xuelai
Published: December 2018

In this study, the performance of ice slurry production by scraped-surface method was experimentally investigated. Temperature change characteristics, ice packing fraction (IPF) of ice slurry, power consumption of scraping system and coefficient of performance (COP) were measured by varying the concentration of sodium chloride solution, scraping speed, and solution flow rate. The effect of nanosilica on efficiency of ice slurry production was also studied. The results showed that scraping power consumption accounted for only a small proportion (about 5%) of the total power consumption of the system. An increase in the concentration of sodium chloride caused a decrease in the IPF and a decrease in the COP of the system. With the solution flow rate at 1.3 m3/h and scraping speed at 13 rpm, the maximum COP (2.43) was obtained. Furthermore, the addition of nanosilica had a significant effect on improving the system COP.
Raising Power Loss Equalizing Degree of Coil Array by Convex Quadratic Optimization Commutation for Magnetic Levitation Planar Motors
Authors: Zhang Shengguo , Huang Jingtao , Yang Jingxian
Published: December 2018

This paper proposes a convex quadratic optimization commutation method to raise the equalization degree of power loss distribution of coil array for magnetic levitation planar motors. Starting with the modeling of electromagnetic forces/torques and commutation of coil array, the global power loss and the local power losses of coil array are analyzed, and the power loss equalizing degree is defined to evaluate the power loss distribution of coil array being commutated dynamically. Then, in consideration of the fact that the global power loss is the quadratic function of commutated coil currents, the convex quadratic function optimization with equality constraint and boundary constraints is applied to commutate the coil array, and the power loss equalizing degree is raised by decreasing the boundary constraints of optimization. Taking the magnetically levitated planar motor under investigation as examples and using quadprog routine in Matlab Optimization Toolbox, which is a dedicated quadratic optimization routine, it is verified that the power loss equalizing the degree of coil array is raised gradually and the power loss distribution of coil array becomes more uniform along with decrease of the boundary constraints. The convex quadratic optimization commutation is verified experimentally on a constructed multi-dimension force/torque measurement platform. Using the convex quadratic optimization commutation can not only improve the power loss distribution of coil array of magnetically levitated planar motors, but also make it possible to select lower capacity power amplifiers to produce the identical desired electromagnetic forces and torques.
Metal-to-Insulator Transitions in Strongly Correlated Regime
Authors: Huang Jian , Pfeiffer Loren , West Ken
Published: December 2018

Transport results from measuring ultra-clean two-dimensional systems, containing tunable carrier densities from 7 × 10 8 cm − 2 to ∼ 1 × 10 10 cm − 2 , reveal a strongly correlated liquid up to r s ≈ 40 where a Wigner crystallization is anticipated. A critical behavior is identified in the proximity of the metal-to-insulator transition. The nonlinear DC responses for r s > 40 captures hard pinning modes that likely undergo a first order transition into an intermediate phase in the course of melting.
Permeability and Leaching Properties of Recycled Concrete Aggregate as an Emerging Material in Civil Engineering
Authors: Głuchowski Andrzej , Sas Wojciech , Dzięcioł Justyna , Soból Emil , Szymański Alojzy
Published: December 2018

In this article, a study of the threshold gradient and leaching properties for recycled material, namely, recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), was conducted. The RCA in this study is a material that comes from recycling concrete debris. A series of tests in permeameter apparatus in a constant head manner were conducted. The test method has been improved to eliminate common mistakes, which occur when the constant head method is used. During the following study, aggregates with gradations equal to 0–8, 0–16, and 0.05–16 mm were tested. The tests were conducted on gradients ranging from 0.2 to 0.83. This range of tested gradients led to the evaluation of the flux velocity and indicated non-Darcian flow. For engineering applications, the threshold gradients for three RCA blends were calculated using a statistical analysis. The average coefficient of permeability, kavg, for linear flow was equal to 1.02 × 10−4–1.89 × 10−4 m/s. In this paper, suffosion analysis was also conducted for the three blends in order to eliminate the possibility of particle movement. Moreover, for RCA blend 0–16 mm, leaching properties was examined. It was found that the concentration of chlorides, sulphates, and heavy metals in the water solution does not exceed the permissible standards. This paper ends with conclusions and proposals concerning the threshold gradients obtained from the statistical analysis, suffosion analysis, and flux velocity.
Cyber-Physical Attack Detection and Recovery Based on RNN in Automotive Brake Systems
Authors: Shin Jongho , Baek Youngmi , Lee Jaeseong , Lee Seonghun
Published: December 2018

The violation of data integrity in automotive Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) may lead to dangerous situations for drivers and pedestrians in terms of safety. In particular, cyber-attacks on the sensor could easily degrade data accuracy and consistency over any other attack, we investigate attack detection and identification based on a deep learning technology on wheel speed sensors of automotive CPS. For faster recovery of a physical system with detection of the cyber-attacks, estimation of a specific value is conducted to substitute false data. To the best of our knowledge, there has not been a case of joining sensor attack detection and vehicle speed estimation in existing literature. In this work, we design a novel method to combine attack detection and identification, vehicle speed estimation of wheel speed sensors to improve the safety of CPS even under the attacks. First, we define states of the sensors based on the cases of attacks that can occur in the sensors. Second, Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) is applied to detect and identify wheel speed sensor attacks. Third, in order to estimate the vehicle speeds accurately, we employ Weighted Average (WA), as one of the fusion algorithms, in order to assign a different weight to each sensor. Since environment uncertainty while driving has an impact on different characteristics of vehicles and causes performance degradation, the recovery mechanism needs the ability adaptive to changing environments. Therefore, we estimate the vehicle speeds after assigning a different weight to each sensor depending on driving situations classified by analyzing driving data. Experiments including training, validation, and test are carried out with actual measurements obtained while driving on the real road. In case of the fault detection and identification, classification accuracy is evaluated. Mean Squared Error (MSE) is calculated to verify that the speed is estimated accurately. The classification accuracy about test additive attack data is 99.4978%. MSE of our proposed speed estimation algorithm is 1.7786. It is about 0.2 lower than MSEs of other algorithms. We demonstrate that our system maintains data integrity well and is safe relatively in comparison with systems which apply other algorithms.
Photodetachment of the Positronium Negative Ion with Excitation in the Positronium Atom
Authors: Bhatia Anand
Published: December 2018

Lyman-α radiation ( 2 P → 1 S ) has been seen from astrophysical sources and the sun. The line shape of this transition has been measured recently in Ps atoms both inside and outside a porous silica target. In the photodetachment of Ps−, the residual Ps atom can be left in the 2P state instead of the 1S state giving rise to positronium Lyman radiation at 2432 A0. Photodetachment cross sections of Ps− have been calculated when the Ps atom is left in nP states, n being 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, using the asymptotic form of the bound-state wave function and a plane wave for the final state wave function, following the approach of Ohmura and Ohmura [Phys. Rev. 1960, 118, 154] in the photodetachment of H−.
Simultaneous Detection of Dopamine and Serotonin—A Comparative Experimental and Theoretical Study of Neurotransmitter Interactions
Authors: Manciu Felicia S. , Manciu Marian , Ciubuc John D. , Sundin Emma M. , Ochoa Katia , Eastman Michael , Durrer William G. , Guerrero Jose , Lopez Brayant , Subedi Mahendra , Bennet Kevin E.
Published: December 2018

With the goal of accurately detecting and quantifying the amounts of dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in mixtures of these neurotransmitters without using any labelling, we present a detailed, comparative computational and Raman experimental study. Although discrimination between these two analytes is achievable in such mixtures for concentrations in the millimolar range, their accurate quantification remains unattainable. As shown for the first time in this work, the formation of a new composite resulting from their interactions with each other is the main reason for this lack of quantification. While this new hydrogen-bonded complex further complicates potential analyte discrimination and quantification at concentrations characteristic of physiological levels (i.e., nanomolar concentrations), it can also open new avenues for its use in drug delivery and pharmaceutical research. This remark is based not only on chemical interactions analyzed here from both theoretical and experimental approaches, but also on biological relationship, with consideration of both functional and neural proximity perspectives. Thus, this research constitutes an important contribution toward better understanding of neural processes, as well as toward possible future development of label-free biosensors.
Honokiol Eliminates Glioma/Glioblastoma Stem Cell-Like Cells Via JAK-STAT3 Signaling and Inhibits Tumor Progression by Targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Fan Yipu , Xue Weikang , Schachner Melitta , Zhao Weijiang
Published: December 2018

Malignant gliomas are the most aggressive forms of brain tumors; whose metastasis and recurrence contribute to high rates of morbidity and mortality. Glioma stem cell-like cells are a subpopulation of tumor-initiating cells responsible for glioma tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and resistance to therapy. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been reported to be dysregulated in most cancers, including gliomas and its functions are closely linked to initiating tumor metastasis and a very poor prognosis. In search for compounds that may reduce the tumorigenic potential of gliomas/glioblastomas honokiol attracted our attention. Honokiol, purified from the bark of traditional Chinese herbal medicine Magnolia species, is beneficial in vitro and in animal models via a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenetic, anti-arrhythmic and antioxidant activities, as well as anti-proliferative and proapoptotic effects in a wide range of human cancer cells. However, its effects on glioma cells are unknown. Here, we used different concentrations of honokiol in treating U251 and U-87 MG human glioma/glioblastoma cells in cell culture. Results showed that honokiol inhibited glioma cell viability and colony formation and promoted apoptosis. It also inhibited glioma cell migration/proliferation and invasion. In addition, honokiol promoted apoptosis and reduced Bcl-2 expression, accompanied by increase in Bax expression. Honokiol reduced expression of EGFR, CD133 and Nestin. Moreover, honokiol inhibited the activation of both AKT and ERK signaling pathways, increased active caspase-3 level and reduced phosphorylation of STAT3. U-87 MG xenografts in nude mice and in immunotolerant zebrafish yolk sac showed that honokiol inhibits tumor growth and metastasis. Altogether, results indicate that honokiol reduces tumorigenic potentials, suggesting hopes for honokiol to be useful in the clinical management of glioma/glioblastoma.
Light-Driven Biocatalysis in Liposomes and Polymersomes: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Wang Guoshu , Castiglione Kathrin
Published: December 2018

The utilization of light energy to power organic-chemical transformations is a fundamental strategy of the terrestrial energy cycle. Inspired by the elegance of natural photosynthesis, much interdisciplinary research effort has been devoted to the construction of simplified cell mimics based on artificial vesicles to provide a novel tool for biocatalytic cascade reactions with energy-demanding steps. By inserting natural or even artificial photosynthetic systems into liposomes or polymersomes, the light-driven proton translocation and the resulting formation of electrochemical gradients have become possible. This is the basis for the conversion of photonic into chemical energy in form of energy-rich molecules such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which can be further utilized by energy-dependent biocatalytic reactions, e.g., carbon fixation. This review compares liposomes and polymersomes as artificial compartments and summarizes the types of light-driven proton pumps that have been employed in artificial photosynthesis so far. We give an overview over the methods affecting the orientation of the photosystems within the membranes to ensure a unidirectional transport of molecules and highlight recent examples of light-driven biocatalysis in artificial vesicles. Finally, we summarize the current achievements and discuss the next steps needed for the transition of this technology from the proof-of-concept status to preparative applications.
The Selectivity of Different Sized Catalysts on DOM Fractional Removal during the Catalytic Ozonation of Municipal Sewage
Authors: Wang Cheng , Wu Ji , Li Aimin , Shuang Chendong
Published: December 2018

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a typical kind of pollutant with a complex composition, and different advanced treatments demonstrate different abilities toward its fractional removal. Hence, it is necessary to analyze the fraction of DOM that remains when using advanced treatments. In this paper, ozonation was used to deal with the biological effluents and comparisons of the catalytic ozonation with different particle sizes of γ-Al2O3 were made. The results of these comparisons indicated that the catalysts were active in improving the removal of DOM and γ-Al2O3 with different particle sizes can selectively remove DOM. The result of fluorescence showed that a decrease in the catalyst particle size contributes to a significant decrease in the fluorescence intensity, except for tryptophan-like substances. Meanwhile, DOM fractions with large molecular weights could be decomposed into small molecules by ozonation, resulting in increased hydrophilicity. However, the use of a catalyst in ozonation increased the removal of hydrophilic components. Additionally, a smaller catalyst particle size increased the removal of hydrophilic components. The results of catalyst analysis implied that the surface hydroxyl groups of catalyst γ-Al2O3 and the diffusion of DOM in the catalyst γ-Al2O3 played important roles in the ozonation catalytic process for the removal of DOM.
An All-Solid-State Electrochromic Device Based on WO3–Nb2O5 Composite Films Prepared by Fast-Alternating Bipolar-Pulsed Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Tang Chien-Jen , He Ju-Liang , Jaing Cheng-Chung , Liang Chen-Jui , Chou Ching-Hung , Han Chien-Yuan , Tien Chuen-Lin
Published: December 2018

In this study, WO3–Nb2O5 electrochromic films and an ITO/WO3–Nb2O5/Nb2O5/NiVOx/ITO all-solid-state electrochromic device were deposited using fast-alternating bipolar-pulsed magnetron sputtering using tungsten and niobium targets. The influence of different sputtering powers from the niobium target on the refractive index, extinction coefficient, optical modulation, coloration efficiency, reversibility, and durability of the WO3–Nb2O5 films is discussed. The aim of this work is to find the suitable Nb proportion to increase durability and less negative effect in the electrochromic performance of Nb2O5-doped WO3 films. The lifetime of the WO3–Nb2O5 films is 4 times longer than pure WO3 films when the sputtering power of the Nb target is higher than 250 W. The results show that WO3–Nb2O5 composite films used for an all-solid-state electrochromic device can sustain over 3 × 104 repeated coloring and bleaching cycles while the transmission modulations can be kept above 20%. The coloring and bleaching response times are 7.0 and 0.7 s, respectively.
Methylglyoxal, the Major Antibacterial Factor in Manuka Honey: An Alternative to Preserve Natural Cosmetics?
Authors: Juliano Claudia , Magrini Giovanni
Published: December 2018

Microbial safety is an essential prerequisite of cosmetics, and preservatives are required to prevent product spoilage and damage to consumers’ health. Consumer concern about the safety of some cosmetic ingredients and the increasing demand for more natural beauty products has driven cosmetic industries and formulators to find natural alternatives to replace synthetic preservatives currently used. In this study, methylglyoxal (MGO, the main factor responsible for the antimicrobial activity of manuka honey) was tested for antimicrobial activity against a panel of selected bacteria and mycetes by using conventional microbiological techniques (determination of M.I.C., time-kill assay), and its potential preservative in an O/W emulsion was investigated (challenge test). MGO showed a remarkable and fast antibacterial activity (M.I.C. values 0.150–0.310 mg/mL), while the inhibitory activity against fungi was less marked (M.I.C. values 1.25–10 mg/mL); chitosan has proven to be a synergist of antimicrobial effectiveness of MGO. Results of the challenge test showed that the addition of MGO to a cream formulation was efficient against microbial contamination. On the basis of our results, MGO appears to be a good candidate as a cosmetic preservative of natural origin; further studies are needed to confirm its applicability and its safety.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Membranes for Light Olefin/Paraffin Separation
Authors: Ma Xiaoli , Liu Defei
Published: December 2018

Propylene/propane and ethylene/ethane separations are performed by energy-intensive distillation processes, and membrane separation may provide substantial energy and capital cost savings. Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) have emerged as promising membrane materials for olefin/paraffin separation due to their tunable pore size and chemistry property, and excellent chemical and thermal stability. In this review, we summarize the recent advances on ZIF membranes for propylene/propane and ethylene/ethane separations. Membrane fabrication methods such as in situ crystallization, seeded growth, counter-diffusion synthesis, interfacial microfluidic processing, vapor-phase and current-driven synthesis are presented. The gas permeation and separation characteristics and membrane stability are also discussed.