bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overlapping Multi-Domain Spectral Method for Conjugate Problems of Conduction and MHD Free Convection Flow of Nanofluids over Flat Plates
Authors: Mkhatshwa Musawenkhosi , Motsa Sandile , Sibanda Precious
Published: August 2019

An efficient overlapping multi-domain spectral method is used in the analysis of conjugate problems of heat conduction in solid walls coupled with laminar magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) free convective boundary layer flow of copper (Cu) water and silver (Ag) water nanofluids over vertical and horizontal flat plates. The combined effects of heat generation and thermal radiation on the flow has been analyzed by imposing a magnetic field along the direction of the flow to control the motion of electrically conducting fluid in nanoscale systems. We have assumed that the nanoparticle volume fraction at the wall may be actively controlled. The dimensionless flow equations are solved numerically using an overlapping multi-domain bivariate spectral quasilinearisation method. The effects of relevant parameters on the fluid properties are shown graphically and discussed in detail. Furthermore, the variations of the skin friction coefficient, surface temperature and the rate of heat transfer are shown in graphs and tables. The findings show that the surface temperature is enhanced due to the presence of nanoparticles in the base fluid and the inclusion of the thermal radiation, heat generation and transverse magnetic field in the system. An increase in the nanoparticle volume fraction, heat generation, thermal radiation, and magnetic field parameter enhances the nanofluid velocity and temperature while reducing the heat transfer rate. The results also indicate that the Ag–water nanofluid has higher skin friction and surface temperature than the Cu–water nanofluid, while the opposite behaviour is observed in the case of the rate of heat transfer. The computed numerical results are compared with previously published results and found to be in good agreement.
Enhancing the Extraction of Polysaccharides and Antioxidants from Macroalgae Using Sequential Hydrothermal-Assisted Extraction Followed by Ultrasound and Thermal Technologies
Authors: Garcia-Vaquero Marco , O’Doherty John V. , Tiwari Brijesh K. , Sweeney Torres , Rajauria Gaurav
Published: August 2019

Fucose sulphated polysaccharides (FSPs) and glucans have recently attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their wide range of biological activities. Both polysaccharides should ideally be selectively extracted using innovative technologies with high extraction efficiency. This study aims to: (1) Optimise the extraction variables used in hydrothermal-assisted extraction (HAE) to obtain high yields of FSPs, total glucans, and antioxidants from Laminaria hyperborea; (2) to apply these optimised protocols to other brown macroalgae; and (3) to explore the application of ultrasound and thermal technologies to increase the recovery of polysaccharides from the residual biomass. Box-Behnken design (three-factor, four-levels) was employed to optimise the HAE variables, and principal component analysis was used to evaluate the recovery of polysaccharides from the residual biomass. The optimal HAE conditions were 120 °C, 80.9 min, and 12.02 mL/g macroalgae from L. hyperborea. The best sequential application of ultrasound and thermal treatment achieved an additional 2971.7 ± 61.9 mg fucose/100 g dried macroalgal residue (dmr) from Ascophyllum nodosum and 908.0 ± 51.4 mg total glucans/100 g dmr from L. hyperborea macroalgal residues.
Microalgal Enzymes with Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Vingiani Giorgio Maria , De Luca Pasquale , Ianora Adrianna , Dobson Alan D.W. , Lauritano Chiara
Published: August 2019

Enzymes are essential components of biological reactions and play important roles in the scaling and optimization of many industrial processes. Due to the growing commercial demand for new and more efficient enzymes to help further optimize these processes, many studies are now focusing their attention on more renewable and environmentally sustainable sources for the production of these enzymes. Microalgae are very promising from this perspective since they can be cultivated in photobioreactors, allowing the production of high biomass levels in a cost-efficient manner. This is reflected in the increased number of publications in this area, especially in the use of microalgae as a source of novel enzymes. In particular, various microalgal enzymes with different industrial applications (e.g., lipids and biofuel production, healthcare, and bioremediation) have been studied to date, and the modification of enzymatic sequences involved in lipid and carotenoid production has resulted in promising results. However, the entire biosynthetic pathways/systems leading to synthesis of potentially important bioactive compounds have in many cases yet to be fully characterized (e.g., for the synthesis of polyketides). Nonetheless, with recent advances in microalgal genomics and transcriptomic approaches, it is becoming easier to identify sequences encoding targeted enzymes, increasing the likelihood of the identification, heterologous expression, and characterization of these enzymes of interest. This review provides an overview of the state of the art in marine and freshwater microalgal enzymes with potential biotechnological applications and provides future perspectives for this field.
Rising Trends in Hospitalizations for Cardiovascular Events among Young Cannabis Users (18–39 Years) without Other Substance Abuse
Authors: Desai Rupak , Fong Hee Kong , Shah Kaushal , Kaur Vikram Preet , Savani Sejal , Gangani Kishorbhai , Damarlapally Nanush , Goyal Hemant
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives: Modern-day epidemiologic data on the risk and shifting landscape of occurrence of cardiovascular events in cannabis users remain inadequate and rather conflicting, especially amongst the young adult population. Furthermore, the problem of polysubstance use among youth is challenging for healthcare professionals and policy-makers. Previous studies report higher risk of concomitant use of tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamine in young cannabis users. However, most of these studies did not eliminate the confounding effects of concomitant other substance abuse while assessing the incidence and outcome of cardiovascular events in cannabis users. Materials and methods: Using weighted discharge records from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2007–2014, we assessed the national trends in hospitalizations for major cardiovascular events including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), arrhythmia, stroke, and venous thromboembolic events (VTE) among young cannabis users (18–39 years), excluding cases with concomitant substance abuse with alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and amphetamine. Results: Of 52.3 million hospitalizations without other substance abuse, 0.7 million (1.3%) young adults were current/former cannabis users. Among young adults without concomitant substance abuse, the frequency of admissions for AMI (0.23% vs. 0.14%), arrhythmia (4.02% vs. 2.84%), and stroke (0.33% vs. 0.26%) was higher in cannabis users as compared to non-users (p < 0.001). However, the frequency of admissions for VTE (0.53% vs. 0.84%) was lower among cannabis users as compared non-users. Between 2007 and 2014, we observed 50%, 79%, 300%, and 75% relative increases in hospitalizations for AMI, arrhythmias, stroke, and VTE, respectively, among young cannabis users as compared to non-users, showing relatively inferior or no ascent in the rates (ptrend < 0.001). Conclusions: The rising trends in hospitalizations for acute cardiovascular events among young cannabis users without concomitant other substance abuse call for future prospective well-designed studies to assess cannabis-related short-and long-term cardiovascular implications while simultaneously developing focused interventions towards raising awareness among the young population regarding the potential deleterious effects of cannabis use.
A Systematic Review of the Genotoxicity and Antigenotoxicity of Biologically Synthesized Metallic Nanomaterials: Are Green Nanoparticles Safe Enough for Clinical Marketing?
Authors: Barabadi Hamed , Najafi Masoud , Samadian Hadi , Azarnezhad Asaad , Vahidi Hossein , Mahjoub Mohammad , Koohiyan Mahbobeh , Ahmadi Amirhossein
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives: Although studies have elucidated the significant biomedical potential of biogenic metallic nanoparticles (MNPs), it is very important to explore the hazards associated with the use of biogenic MNPs. Evidence indicates that genetic toxicity causes mutation, carcinogenesis, and cell death. Materials and Methods: Therefore, we systematically review original studies that investigated the genotoxic effect of biologically synthesized MNPs via in vitro and in vivo models. Articles were systematically collected by screening the literature published online in the following databases; Cochrane, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, ProQuest, and EBSCO. Results: Most of the studies were carried out on the MCF-7 cancer cell line and phytosynthesis was the general approach to MNP preparation in all studies. Fungi were the second most predominant resource applied for MNP synthesis. A total of 80.57% of the studies synthesized biogenic MNPs with sizes below 50 nm. The genotoxicity of Ag, Au, ZnO, TiO2, Se, Cu, Pt, Zn, Ag-Au, CdS, Fe3O4, Tb2O3, and Si-Ag NPs was evaluated. AgNPs, prepared in 68.79% of studies, and AuNPs, prepared in 12.76%, were the two most predominant biogenic MNPs synthesized and evaluated in the included articles. Conclusions: Although several studies reported the antigenotoxic influence of biogenic MNPs, most of them reported biogenic MNP genotoxicity at specific concentrations and with a dose or time dependence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically evaluate the genotoxicity of biologically synthesized MNPs and provide a valuable summary of genotoxicity data. In conclusion, our study implied that the genotoxicity of biologically synthesized MNPs varies case-by-case and highly dependent on the synthesis parameters, biological source, applied assay, etc. The gathered data are required for the translation of these nanoproducts from research laboratories to the clinical market.
Computer- and Robot-Assisted Therapies to Aid Social and Intellectual Functioning of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: DiPietro Joan , Kelemen Arpad , Liang Yulan , Sik-Lanyi Cecilia
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience challenges with social interactions, a core feature of the disorder. Social skills therapy has been shown to be helpful. Over the past several years, computer-assisted and robot-assisted therapies have been infiltrating the social skills teaching environment. Rapid progress in the field of technology, especially in the robotics area, offers tremendous possibilities for innovation and treatment or even education for individuals with ASD. This paper’s purpose is to drive awareness of these innovative interventions in order to support the social lives of children with ASD. The aims of the paper are identifying (1) the types of Information Technology platforms that are being evaluated in computer and robot-assisted therapies for children with ASD; (2) the various disciplines or professions studying and utilizing these computer and robot-assisted social skill therapies; (3) the outcomes being evaluated in each trial; and (4) if results demonstrate benefits to children with autism. Materials and Methods: PubMed, CINAHL, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases were searched for clinical trials published over the past five years. Search terms incorporated the subject intersection of autism, and computer or robot-assisted therapy. Results were mined for pediatric populations only and study designs establishing controlled comparisons. Results: Eighteen unique international studies were identified that utilize robot interventions (11 studies) and serious computer game interventions (seven studies). Most demonstrated promising results in improving outcomes for children with ASD. Study implications reveal a rapidly evolving assistive technology for ASD social skills therapy. Conclusions: These interventions show considerable promise, but more effectiveness and cost effectiveness research of high quality should be carried out with larger numbers of children. Also, further studies are necessary to evaluate these technologies’ effectiveness amongst adults with ASD and within unique subsets of the higher functioning autism population.
The Use of MRI and PET Imaging Studies for Prostate Cancer Management: Brief Update, Clinical Recommendations, and Technological Limitations
Authors: Mansbridge Margaret , Chung Eric , Rhee Handoo
Published: August 2019

Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) using prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeting ligands have been adopted as a new standard of imaging modality in the management of prostate cancer (PCa). Technological advances with hybrid and advanced computer-assisted technologies such as MR/PET, MR/US, multi-parametric US, and robotic biopsy systems, have resulted in improved diagnosis and staging of patients in various stages of PCa with changes in treatment that may be considered “personalized”. Whilst newer clinical trials incorporate these novel imaging modalities into study protocols and as long-term data matures, patients should be made aware of the potential benefits and harm related to these technologies. Published literature needs to report longer-term treatment efficacy, health economic outcomes, and adverse effects. False positives and negatives of these imaging modalities have the potential to cause harm and the limitations of these technologies should be appreciated. The role of a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) and a shared-decision-making model are important to ensure that all aspects of the novel imaging modalities are considered.
Analysis of Sheet Metal Forming (Stamping Process): A Study of the Variable Friction Coefficient on 5052 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Dou Shasha , Xia Jiansheng
Published: August 2019

Under a boundary lubrication regime, the effect of sliding velocity and normal loads on the friction coefficient in the sheet metal stamping process was investigated using a pin-on-disk sliding wear test. Software was used to analyze both the data generated and the friction coefficient; in addition, a variable friction model based on different velocities and normal loads was also initiated. Under different experimental conditions and numerous influences, both the analysis and microtopography examination of sheet metal helped to obtain the mechanism influence on the friction coefficient. Through further analysis of the microtopography of sheet metal, the law of the surface roughness of sheet metal after grinding with stamping die was established. The model was established to simulate the thickness distribution and spring-back of U-bend parts using ABAQUS software. The results show that the friction coefficient values between the sheet metal and the stamping die generally decrease with increasing sliding velocity and normal loads, and the decreasing tendency slows down under a higher sliding velocity and normal load. Furrow wear and abrasive wear are the main wear mechanisms, with slight sticking wear under the boundary lubrication; the surface roughness after grinding with stamping die generally increases with increasing normal loads and decreasing sliding velocity. The predicted results of thickness distribution with a constant friction coefficient of 0.1 and with the variable friction coefficient model are more consistent with the actual measured values, but the predicted accuracy of spring-back in the variable friction coefficient model is higher than that of the constant friction coefficient model.
Characterization of Salinivibrio socompensis sp. nov., A New Halophilic Bacterium Isolated from the High-Altitude Hypersaline Lake Socompa, Argentina
Authors: Galisteo Cristina , Sánchez-Porro Cristina , de la Haba Rafael R. , López-Hermoso Clara , Fernández Ana B. , Farias María E. , Ventosa Antonio
Published: August 2019

The genus Salinivibrio belongs to the family Vibrionaceae and includes Gram-stain-negative, motile by a polar flagellum, and facultatively anaerobic curved rods. They are halophilic bacteria commonly found in hypersaline aquatic habitats and salted foods. This genus includes five species and two subspecies. A presumed novel species, strain S35T, was previously isolated from the high-altitude volcanic, alkaline, and saline lake Socompa (Argentinean Andes). In this study we carried out a complete taxonomic characterization of strain S35T, including the 16S rRNA gene sequence and core-genome analysis, the average nucleotide identity (ANIb, ANIm, and orthoANI), and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization (GGDC), as well as the phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characterization. It grew at 3%–20% (w/v) NaCl, pH 6–10, and 10–42 °C, with optimum growth at 7.0%–7.5% (w/v) NaCl, pH 8.0, and 37 °C, respectively. Strain S35T was oxidase- and catalase-positive, able to produce acid from D-glucose and other carbohydrates. Hydrolysis of DNA, methyl red test, and nitrate and nitrite reduction were positive. Its main fatty acids were C16:0, C16:1 ω7c and C16:1 ω6c, and C18:1 ω7c and/or C18:1 ω6c. ANI, GGDC, and core-genome analysis determined that strain S35T constitutes a novel species of the genus Salinivibrio, for which the name Salinivibrio socompensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is S35T (= CECT 9634T = BNM 0535T).
MMI-0100 Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice through Targeting MK2 Pathway
Authors: Wang Zhe , Liang Xue Ya , Chang Xin , Nie Yao Yan , Guo Chen , Jiang Jin Hong , Chang Min
Published: August 2019

Backgrounds: This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of MMI-0100, a cell-penetrating peptide inhibitor of MAPK-activated protein kinase II (MK2), on acute colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Mice were injected intraperitoneally with different doses of MMI-0100 (0.5 and 1 mg/kg per day, six days). The physiological indexes, the parameters for colonic pathological injury and the intensity of inflammatory responses were evaluated by histological staining, quantitative PCR, western blotting, and immunostaining. MMI-0100 attenuated DSS-induced body weight loss, colon length shortening, and colonic pathological injury, including decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) and inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration. MMI-0100 suppressed DSS-induced activation of CD11b+ and F4/80 positive cell, and dramatically decreased the expression of a series of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, TGF- β, IFN-γ, IL-17A, COX-2 and iNOS. A TUNEL assay showed that MMI-0100 protected against DSS-induced apoptosis. This is consistent with the results of Western blotting assay in apoptosis-related proteins including Bcl-2, BAX, caspase-3. The anti-inflammatory effects of MMI-0100 on DSS-induced colitis were achieved by down-regulating the phosphorylation level of MK2, IκBα and p65 protein. The current study clearly demonstrates a protective role for MMI-0100 in experimental IBD.
Dietary Curcumin Prevented Astrocytosis, Microgliosis, and Apoptosis Caused by Acute and Chronic Exposure to Ozone
Authors: Nery-Flores Sendar Daniel , Ramírez-Herrera Mario Alberto , Mendoza-Magaña María Luisa , Romero-Prado Marina María de Jesús , Ramírez-Vázquez José de Jesús , Bañuelos-Pineda Jacinto , Espinoza-Gutiérrez Hugo Alejandro , Ramírez-Mendoza Abraham Alberto , Tostado Mariana Chávez
Published: August 2019

Ozone is the most oxidant tropospheric pollutant gas, causing damage through the formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Reactive species induce the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation leading to neuroinflammation characterized by astrocytosis, microgliosis, and apoptotic cell death. There is interest in evaluating the pharmacological activity of natural antioxidants to confer neuroprotection against the damage caused by ozone in highly polluted cities. Curcumin has been proven to exert a protective action in the central nervous system (CNS) of diverse experimental models, with no side effects. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of curcumin in a preventive and therapeutic manner against the astrocytosis, microgliosis, and apoptosis induced by ozone in rat hippocampus. Fifty Wistar rats were distributed into five experimental groups: The intact control, curcumin fed control, ozone-exposed group, and the preventive and therapeutic groups receiving the curcumin supplementation while exposed to ozone. Ozone caused astrocytosis and microgliosis, as well as apoptosis in the hippocampus. Meanwhile, curcumin was able to decrease the activation of microglia and astrocytes, and apoptotic cell death in both periods of exposure. Therefore, we propose that curcumin could be used as a molecule capable of counteracting the damage caused by ozone in the CNS.
Non-Isothermal Crystallization Kinetics of Poly(4-Hydroxybutyrate) Biopolymer
Authors: Keridou Ina , del Valle Luis J. , Funk Lutz , Turon Pau , Franco Lourdes , Puiggalí Jordi
Published: August 2019

The non-isothermal crystallization of the biodegradable poly(4-hydroxybutyrate) (P4HB) has been studied by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarizing optical microscopy (POM). In the first case, Avrami, Ozawa, Mo, Cazé, and Friedman methodologies were applied. The isoconversional approach developed by Vyazovkin allowed also the determination of a secondary nucleation parameter of 2.10 × 105 K2 and estimating a temperature close to 10 °C for the maximum crystal growth rate. Similar values (i.e., 2.22 × 105 K2 and 9 °C) were evaluated from non-isothermal Avrami parameters. All experimental data corresponded to a limited region where the polymer crystallized according to a single regime. Negative and ringed spherulites were always obtained from the non-isothermal crystallization of P4HB from the melt. The texture of spherulites was dependent on the crystallization temperature, and specifically, the interring spacing decreased with the decrease of the crystallization temperature (Tc). Synchrotron data indicated that the thickness of the constitutive lamellae varied with the cooling rate, being deduced as a lamellar insertion mechanism that became more relevant when the cooling rate increased. POM non-isothermal measurements were also consistent with a single crystallization regime and provided direct measurements of the crystallization growth rate (G). Analysis of the POM data gave a secondary nucleation constant and a bell-shaped G-Tc dependence that was in relative agreement with DSC analysis. All non-isothermal data were finally compared with information derived from previous isothermal analyses.
Furocoumarin Content of Fennel—Below the Safety Threshold
Authors: Kerekes Diána , Csorba Attila , Gosztola Beáta , Németh-Zámbori Éva , Kiss Tivadar , Csupor Dezső
Published: August 2019

Furocoumarins are known for their phototoxic and potential carcinogenic effects. These types of compounds have previously been reported from fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), a widely used medicinal plant and spice; however, no reliable quantitative data are available on the occurrence of these compounds in fennel fruits. For the first time, we report a comprehensive analysis of fennel fruit samples of different origins, representing a wide range of accessions for their furocoumarin content. Psoralene, 5-methoxypsoralene (bergapten), and imperatorin contents of 33 fennel samples were analyzed using a sensitive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method. When applied at the highest therapeutic dose described in the monograph issued by the European Medicines Agency, the furocoumarin content of the fruits ranged up to 1.22 μg/d, which is below the most restrictive recommendations. Based on our findings, fennel consumption can be considered as safe, at least based on its low furocoumarin content.
Evolution of Polyphenols during Syrah Grapes Maceration: Time versus Temperature Effect
Authors: Ghanem Chantal , Taillandier Patricia , Rizk Ziad , Nehme Nancy , Souchard Jean Pierre , El Rayess Youssef
Published: August 2019

The effect of maceration time and temperature on the phenolic compounds of Syrah grape musts was studied. Pre-fermentation cold (10 °C) and heat maceration (60, 70 and 80 °C) were applied and compared to traditional maceration (control, 25 °C). The macerations were monitored and the kinetic profile of the maceration was studied by taking samples at 0, 2, 4, 8, 24 and 48 h. The results showed that heat treatment had the most significant effect on the extraction of total polyphenol. A significant loss of anthocyanin content was observed when the maceration was extended beyond eight hours at high temperatures, while longer maceration times seemed to favor the extraction of tannins. A principal component analysis showed that independently of the vinification technique, and for the same grape varieties, different winegrowing regions and harvest years affected the phenolic composition of the grape skin.
Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship Study of Bitter Di-, Tri- and Tetrapeptides Using Integrated Descriptors
Authors: Xu Biyang , Chung Hau Yin
Published: August 2019

New quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models for bitter peptides were built with integrated amino acid descriptors. Datasets contained 48 dipeptides, 52 tripeptides and 23 tetrapeptides with their reported bitter taste thresholds. Independent variables consisted of 14 amino acid descriptor sets. A bootstrapping soft shrinkage approach was utilized for variable selection. The importance of a variable was evaluated by both variable selecting frequency and standardized regression coefficient. Results indicated model qualities for di-, tri- and tetrapeptides with R2 and Q2 at 0.950 ± 0.002, 0.941 ± 0.001; 0.770 ± 0.006, 0.742 ± 0.004; and 0.972 ± 0.002, 0.956 ± 0.002, respectively. The hydrophobic C-terminal amino acid was the key determinant for bitterness in dipeptides, followed by the contribution of bulky hydrophobic N-terminal amino acids. For tripeptides, hydrophobicity of C-terminal amino acids and the electronic properties of the amino acids at the second position were important. For tetrapeptides, bulky hydrophobic amino acids at N-terminus, hydrophobicity and partial specific volume of amino acids at the second position, and the electronic properties of amino acids of the remaining two positions were critical. In summary, this study not only constructs reliable models for predicting the bitterness in different groups of peptides, but also facilitates better understanding of their structure-bitterness relationships and provides insights for their future studies.
Cross-Sectional Survey of the Amount of Sugar and Energy in Chocolate Confectionery Sold in the UK in 1992 and 2017
Authors: Hashem Kawther M. , He Feng J. , Alderton Sarah A. , MacGregor Graham A.
Published: August 2019

The study aimed to compare the sugar (1992, 2017) and energy (2017) content of chocolate confectionery available in the UK between 1992 and 2017 using cross-sectional surveys. All major UK retailers operating at the time were included. Sugar content in 1992 was obtained from a booklet and sugar and energy content from 2017 were collected from product packaging in-store. In 1992, the average sugar content of chocolate confectionery was 46.6 ± 10.3 g/100 g and in 2017 it was 47.3 ± 12.1 g/100 g. Sugar content ranged from 0.5 to 75.2 g/100g, with large variations between different categories of chocolate and within the same category of chocolate. There were 23 products found in both 1992 and 2017. The average sugar content per 100 g for these products was 44.6 ± 9.4 g in 1992 and 54.7 ± 6.3 g in 2017, representing a 23% increase in sugar content (p < 0.001). The results show that the sugar content of chocolate confectionery has increased since 1992, which is concerning. However, they also suggest sugar levels can be reduced because (a) lower sugar versions of the same products existed in 1992 and (b) there is a large variation in sugar and energy content between different categories of chocolate and within the same category in 2017.
Deprescribing of Medicines in Care Homes—A Five-Year Evaluation of Primary Care Pharmacist Practices
Authors: Alves Ana , Green Shaun , James Delyth H
Published: August 2019

(1) Background: This project evaluates the outcomes of a novel pharmacy-led model of deprescribing unnecessary medications for care home patients. A feasibility study was conducted in 2015 to explore exposure to inappropriate polypharmacy in patients residing in care homes over a one-year timescale. The aim of this study was to present the results of this ongoing service evaluation over a five-year period. (2) Methods: Data collection and risk assessment tools developed during the feasibility study were used to measure the prevalence, nature, and impact of deprescribing interventions by primary care pharmacists over a five-year period. A random sample of approximately 5% of safety interventions were screened twice yearly by the pharmacist leads as part of standard practice. (3) Results: Over a period of five years there were 23,955 interventions (mean 2.3 per patient) reported from the 10,405 patient reviews undertaken. Deprescribing accounted for 53% of total estimated financial drug savings, equating to £431,493; and 16.1% of all interventions were related to safety. (4) Conclusions: Medication reviews in care homes, undertaken by primary care pharmacists who are linked to GP practices, generate a wide range of interventions commonly involving deprescribing, which contributes significantly to the continuous optimisation of the prescribing and monitoring of medicines.
Community-Based Pharmacy Practice Innovation and the Role of the Community-Based Pharmacist Practitioner in the United States
Authors: Goode Jean-Venable , Owen James , Page Alexis , Gatewood Sharon
Published: August 2019

Community-based pharmacy practice is evolving from a focus on product preparation and dispensing to becoming a health care destination within the four walls of the traditional community-based pharmacy. Furthermore, community-based pharmacy practice is expanding beyond the four walls of the traditional community-based pharmacy to provide care to patients where they need it. Pharmacists involved in this transition are community-based pharmacist practitioners who are primarily involved in leading and advancing team-based patient care services in communities to improve the patient health. This paper will review community-based pharmacy practice innovations and the role of the community-based pharmacist practitioner in the United States.
Update of fNIRS as an Input to Brain–Computer Interfaces: A Review of Research from the Tufts Human–Computer Interaction Laboratory
Authors: Bosworth Alexa , Russell Matthew , Jacob Robert J. K.
Published: August 2019

Over the past decade, the Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) Lab at Tufts University has been developing real-time, implicit Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). This paper reviews the work of the lab; we explore how we have used fNIRS to develop BCIs that are based on a variety of human states, including cognitive workload, multitasking, musical learning applications, and preference detection. Our work indicates that fNIRS is a robust tool for the classification of brain-states in real-time, which can provide programmers with useful information to develop interfaces that are more intuitive and beneficial for the user than are currently possible given today’s human-input (e.g., mouse and keyboard).
Green Synthesis of Potent Antimicrobial Silver Nanoparticles Using Different Plant Extracts and Their Mixtures
Authors: Reda May , Ashames Akram , Edis Zehra , Bloukh Samir , Bhandare Richie , Abu Sara Hamed
Published: August 2019

Nano-sized metals have been introduced as a promising solution for microbial resistance to antimicrobial agents. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been proven to possess good antimicrobial activity. Green synthesis of AgNPs has been reported as safe, low cost and ecofriendly. This methodology uses extracts originating from different plants to reduce silver ions from AgNO3 into nano-sized particles. In this study, extracts of several plants including ginger, garlic, capsicum and their mixtures were successfully used to produce AgNPs. Numerous spectroscopic, light scattering and microscopic techniques were employed to characterize the synthesized AgNPs. Agar well diffusion assay was performed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of AgNPs. The biosynthesized AgNPs have spherical shape with a size range of 20–70 nm. Garlic extract, pure or in mixture with ginger extract, generated AgNPs of the smallest size. The presence of the plant-origin capping agents surrounding AgNPs was proven by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The AgNPs, at a concentration of 50 µg/mL, demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against Staphyloccocus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans as indicated by the zones of inhibitions. Our results revealed that AgNPs having potent antimicrobial activity could be prepared using different pure plant extracts and their mixtures.
Special Issue on “Process Modelling and Simulation”
Authors: de Prada César , Pantelides Constantinos C. , Pitarch José Luis
Published: August 2019

Collecting and highlighting novel developments that address existing as well as forthcoming challenges in the field of process modelling and simulation was the motivation for proposing this special issue on “Process Modelling and Simulation” in the journal Processes [...]
Computational Fluid Dynamic Simulation of Inhaled Radon Dilution by Auxiliary Ventilation in a Stone-Coal Mine Laneway and Dosage Assessment of Miners
Authors: Zhou Bin , Chang Ping , Xu Guang
Published: August 2019

Inhaled radon status in the laneways of some Chinese stone-coal mines is a cause of concern. In this study, computational fluid dynamics simulations were employed to investigate three flowrates of the dilution gas (2.5, 5, and 7.5 m3/s) and radon distributions at realistic breathing levels (1.6, 1.75, and 1.9 m). The results showed that there are obvious jet-flow, backflow, and vortex zones near the heading face, and a circulation flow at the rear of the laneway. A high radon concentration area was found to be caused by the mining machinery. As the ventilation rate increased, the radon concentrations dropped significantly. An airflow of 7.5 m3/s showed the best dilution performance: The maximum radon concentration decreased to 541.62 Bq/m3, which is within the safe range recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Annual effective doses for the three air flowrates were 8.61, 5.50, and 4.12 mSv.
Evaluation of Soil Moisture and Shear Deformation Based on Compression Wave Velocities in a Shallow Slope Surface Layer
Authors: Tao Shangning , Uchimura Taro , Fukuhara Makoto , Tang Junfeng , Chen Yulong , Huang Dong
Published: August 2019

Rainfall-induced landslides occur commonly in mountainous areas around the world and cause severe human and infrastructural damage. An early warning system can help people safely escape from a dangerous area and is an economical and effective method to prevent and mitigate rainfall-induced landslides. This paper proposes a method to evaluate soil moisture and shear deformation by compression wave velocities in a shallow slope surface layer. A new type of exciter and new receivers have been developed using a combination of micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) accelerometers and the Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) algorithm, which can automatically calculate the elastic wave travel time with accuracy and reliability. Laboratory experiments using a multi-layer shear model were conducted to reproduce the slope failure. The relationships between wave velocities and soil moisture were found to be dependent on the saturation path (rain or drain); in other words, hysteresis was observed. The wave velocity ratio reduced by 0.1–0.2 when the volumetric water content (VWC) increased from 0.1 to 0.27 m3/m3. When loading the shear stress corresponding to slope angles of 24, 27, 29, or 31 degrees, a drop of 0.2–0.3 in wave velocity ratio was observed at the middle layer, and near 0.5 at the bottom layer. After setting the shear stress to correspond to a slope angle of 33 degrees, the displacement started increasing and finally, slope failure occurred. With increasing displacement, the wave velocities also decreased rapidly. The wave velocity ratio dropped by 0.2 after a displacement of 3 mm. Monitoring long-term elastic wave velocities in a slope surface layer allows one to observe the behavior of the slope, understand its stability, and then apply an early warning system to predict slope failure.
A Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Processor for SAR Imaging
Authors: Wang Shiyu , Zhang Shengbing , Huang Xiaoping , An Jianfeng , Chang Libo
Published: August 2019

The expansion and improvement of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology have greatly enhanced its practicality. SAR imaging requires real-time processing with limited power consumption for large input images. Designing a specific heterogeneous array processor is an effective approach to meet the power consumption constraints and real-time processing requirements of an application system. In this paper, taking a commonly used algorithm for SAR imaging—the chirp scaling algorithm (CSA)—as an example, the characteristics of each calculation stage in the SAR imaging process is analyzed, and the data flow model of SAR imaging is extracted. A heterogeneous array architecture for SAR imaging that effectively supports Fast Fourier Transformation/Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (FFT/IFFT) and phase compensation operations is proposed. First, a heterogeneous array architecture consisting of fixed-point PE units and floating-point FPE units, which are respectively proposed for the FFT/IFFT and phase compensation operations, increasing energy efficiency by 50% compared with the architecture using floating-point units. Second, data cross-placement and simultaneous access strategies are proposed to support the intra-block parallel processing of SAR block imaging, achieving up to 115.2 GOPS throughput. Third, a resource management strategy for heterogeneous computing arrays is designed, which supports the pipeline processing of FFT/IFFT and phase compensation operation, improving PE utilization by a factor of 1.82 and increasing energy efficiency by a factor of 1.5. Implemented in 65-nm technology, the experimental results show that the processor can achieve energy efficiency of up to 254 GOPS/W. The imaging fidelity and accuracy of the proposed processor were verified by evaluating the image quality of the actual scene.
Load Measurement in Linear Guides for Machine Tools
Authors: Krampert David , Unsleber Sebastian , Janssen Christoph , Reindl Leonhard
Published: August 2019

Process force determination in machine tools is an important topic for both optimization of manufacturing processes as well as predictive maintenance purposes. This work aims at providing a short overview of existing methods, motivating the integration of sensors into a linear guide, and then showing the results of an implemented new method for capturing the load on a rolling element linear guide by measuring the stresses resulting from the rolling element contact at the side of the runner block. The implementation of the approach is based on the piezoresistive diamond like carbon (DLC) coating DiaForce® provided by the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films (IST), Braunschweig, Germany. Good agreement of measurements with analytical and finite element method simulation results promises a stable modeling and load estimation process. Nevertheless, non-idealities due to high temperature dependency and cross-sensitivity to non rolling element contact related stresses could be shown, but also an efficient approach to diminish these effects is included.
Effects of AlN and BCN Thin Film Multilayer Design on the Reaction Time of Ni/Ni-20Cr Thin Film Thermocouples on Thermally Sprayed Al2O3
Authors: Tillmann Wolfgang , Kokalj David , Stangier Dominic , Schöppner Volker , Malatyali Hatice
Published: August 2019

Thin film thermocouples are widely used for local temperature determinations of surfaces. However, depending on the environment in which they are used, thin film thermocouples need to be covered by a wear or oxidation resistant top layer. With regard to the utilization in wide-slit nozzles for plastic extrusion, Ni/Ni-20Cr thin film thermocouples were manufactured using direct-current (DC) magnetron sputtering combined with Aluminiumnitride (AlN) and Boron-Carbonitride (BCN) thin films. On the one hand, the deposition parameters of the nitride layers were varied to affect the chemical composition and morphology of the AlN and BCN thin films. On the other hand, the position of the nitride layers (below the thermocouple, above the thermocouple, around the thermocouple) was changed. Both factors were investigated concerning the influence on the Seebeck coefficient and the reaction behaviour of the thermocouples. Therefore, the impact of the nitride thin films on the morphology, physical structure, crystallite size, electrical resistance and hardness of the Ni and Ni-20Cr thin films is analysed. The investigations reveal that the Seebeck coefficient is not affected by the different architectures of the thermocouples. Nevertheless, the reaction time of the thermocouples can be significantly improved by adding a thermal conductive top coat over the thin films, whereas the top coat should have a coarse structure and low nitrogen content.
Digital Health Sensing for Personalized Dermatology
Authors: Spinazze Pier , Bottle Alex , Car Josip
Published: August 2019

The rapid evolution of technology, sensors and personal digital devices offers an opportunity to acquire health related data seamlessly, unobtrusively and in real time. In this opinion piece, we discuss the relevance and opportunities for using digital sensing in dermatology, taking eczema as an exemplar.
A Hybrid Two-Axis Force Sensor for the Mesoscopic Structural Superlubricity Studies
Authors: Sun Taotao , Wu Zhanghui , Li Zhihong , Zheng Quanshui , Lin Li
Published: August 2019

Structural superlubricity (SSL) is a state of nearly zero friction and zero wear between two directly contacted solid surfaces. Recently, SSL was achieved in mesoscale and thus opened the SSL technology which promises great applications in Micro-electromechanical Systems (MEMS), sensors, storage technologies, etc. However, load issues in current mesoscale SSL studies are still not clear. The great challenge is to simultaneously measure both the ultralow shear forces and the much larger normal forces, although the widely used frictional force microscopes (FFM) and micro tribometers can satisfy the shear forces and normal forces requirements, respectively. Here we propose a hybrid two-axis force sensor that can well fill the blank between the capabilities of FFM and micro tribometers for the mesoscopic SSL studies. The proposed sensor can afford 1mN normal load with 10 nN lateral resolution. Moreover, the probe of the sensor is designed at the edge of the structure for the convenience of real-time optical observation. Calibrations and preliminary experiments are conducted to validate the performance of the design.
Development, Optimization and Applications of Thin Film Solid Phase Microextraction (TF-SPME) Devices for Thermal Desorption: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Emmons Ronald V. , Tajali Ramin , Gionfriddo Emanuela
Published: August 2019

Through the development of solid phase microextraction (SPME) technologies, thin film solid phase microextraction (TF-SPME) has been repeatedly validated as a novel sampling device well suited for various applications. These applications, encompassing a wide range of sampling methods such as onsite, in vivo and routine analysis, benefit greatly from the convenience and sensitivity TF-SPME offers. TF-SPME, having both an increased extraction phase volume and surface area to volume ratio compared to conventional microextraction techniques, allows high extraction rates and enhanced capacity, making it a convenient and ideal sampling tool for ultra-trace level analysis. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the development of TF-SPME and the applications it has provided thus far. Emphasis is given on its application to thermal desorption, with method development and optimization for this desorption method discussed in detail. Moreover, a detailed outlook on the current progress of TF-SPME development and its future is also discussed with emphasis on its applications to environmental, food and fragrance analysis.
The Naval Postgraduate School’s Department of Systems Engineering Approach to Mission Engineering Education through Capstone Projects
Authors: Van Bossuyt Douglas L. , Beery Paul , O’Halloran Bryan M. , Hernandez Alejandro , Paulo Eugene
Published: August 2019

This article presents an educational approach to applied capstone research projects using a mission engineering focus. It reviews recent advances in mission engineering within the Department of Defense and integrates that work into an approach for research within the Systems Engineering Department at the Naval Postgraduate School. A generalized sequence of System Definition, System Modeling, and System Analysis is presented as an executable sequence of activities to support analysis of operational missions within a student research project at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). That approach is detailed and demonstrated through analysis of the integration of a long-range strike capability on a MH-60S helicopter. The article serves as a demonstration of an approach for producing operationally applicable results from student projects in the context of mission engineering. Specifically, it demonstrates that students can execute a systems engineering project that conducts system-level design with direct consideration of mission impacts at the system of systems level. Discussion of the benefits and limitations of this approach are discussed and suggestions for integrating mission engineering into capstone courses are provided.
The Brightest Point in Accretion Disk and Black Hole Spin: Implication to the Image of Black Hole M87*
Authors: Dokuchaev Vyacheslav I. , Nazarova Natalia O.
Published: August 2019

We propose the simple new method for extracting the value of the black hole spin from the direct high-resolution image of black hole by using a thin accretion disk model. In this model, the observed dark region on the first image of the supermassive black hole in the galaxy M87, obtained by the Event Horizon Telescope, is a silhouette of the black hole event horizon. The outline of this silhouette is the equator of the event horizon sphere. The dark silhouette of the black hole event horizon is placed within the expected position of the black hole shadow, which is not revealed on the first image. We calculated numerically the relation between the observed position of the black hole silhouette and the brightest point in the thin accretion disk, depending on the black hole spin. From this relation, we derive the spin of the supermassive black hole M87*, a = 0.75 ± 0.15 .