bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of CO2 Storage in a Shale Gas Reservoir Compared to a Deep Saline Aquifer in the Ordos Basin of China
Authors: Liu Danqing , Li Yilian , Agarwal Ramesh
Published: July 2020

As a new “sink” of CO2 permanent storage, the depleted shale reservoir is very promising compared to the deep saline aquifer. To provide a greater understanding of the benefits of CO2 storage in a shale reservoir, a comparative study is conducted by establishing the full-mechanism model, including the hydrodynamic trapping, adsorption trapping, residual trapping, solubility trapping as well as the mineral trapping corresponding to the typical shale and deep saline aquifer parameters from the Ordos basin in China. The results show that CO2 storage in the depleted shale reservoir has merits in storage safety by trapping more CO2 in stable immobile phase due to adsorption and having gentler and ephemeral pressure perturbation responding to CO2 injection. The effect of various CO2 injection schemes, namely the high-speed continuous injection, low-speed continuous injection, huff-n-puff injection and water alternative injection, on the phase transformation of CO2 in a shale reservoir and CO2-injection-induced perturbations in formation pressure are also examined. With the aim of increasing the fraction of immobile CO2 while maintaining a safe pressure-perturbation, it is shown that an intermittent injection procedure with multiple slugs of hug-n-puff injection can be employed and within the allowable range of pressure increase, and the CO2 injection rate can be maximized to increase the CO2 storage capacity and security in shale reservoir.
Dental Caries in Children Under Five Years of Age in Mongolia
Authors: Nishino Mizuho , Amarsaikhan Bazar , Furumoto Nanayo , Hirao Saki , Bando Hiroko , Nakagawa Akemi , Nomingerel Sukhbaatar , Bolorchimeg Begzsuren , Fujimoto Masami
Published: July 2020

During the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) partnership program in Mongolia, six times between October 2017 and October 2019, education for caries prevention, a questionnaire of daily oral health behavior, and an oral examination for parents and children aged 0–5 years old were done. The target parent population were middle socio-economic class families. In total, there were 2223 participants. The caries prevalence measured in October 2017, January, April, and October 2018, and April and October 2019, was 78.0% (95% CI: 74.2–81.4); 79.4% (73.7–84.4); 80.8% (76.2–84.9); 76.4% (70.1–82.0); 89.3% (85.3–92.6); and 82.6% (79.3–85.6), respectively. Compared to October 2017, in October 2019, the deft of three years old was significantly decreased (p < 0.01) and that of four years old was also decreased (p = 0.085). For the prevention of early childhood caries (ECC), daily oral health behaviors are important. In 2019, compared with the percentage of 0–5 years old in 2017, the frequency of tooth cleaning per day, parents cleaning after children, and parents watching during children’s tooth cleaning were significantly increased (p < 0.01). Unfortunately, the frequency of sugary—snack intake per day showed an increased tendency (p < 0.05). The baby teeth decayed, extracted and filled (deft) index at three and/or four years old in October 2019 was correlated with the childrens’ background characteristics, such as parent educational attainment, frequency of sweets intake, frequency of daily tooth cleaning, and parental cleaning of children’s teeth. The effects of the JICA program were recognized.
Bone Metabolism in Patients Treated for Depression
Authors: Skowrońska-Jóźwiak Elżbieta , Gałecki Piotr , Głowacka Ewa , Wojtyła Cezary , Biliński Przemysław , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: July 2020

Background: Depression and osteoporosis are severe public health problems. There are conflicting findings regarding the influence of depression on bone metabolism. The aim of the presented study was to compare bone turnover markers and vitamin D levels between patients treated for depression and healthy controls. Patients and Methods: We determined a concentration of osteocalcin, carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) and 1,25(OH)2D3 in 99 patients, aged 46.9 ± 11 years, treated for depression, as well as in 45 healthy subjects. Depressive status was determined with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HDRS). Results: In patients treated for depression, we demonstrated significantly lower osteocalcin concentrations (p < 0.03) and higher concentration of β-CTX (result on the border of significance; p = 0.08). Those relationship were stronger in women. The level of 25OHD and 1,25(OH)2D3 did not differ significantly between the examined groups. We observed a negative correlation between the 25OHD and HDRS score after treatment in all patients treated for depression and in subgroups of women and subjects with recurrent depression. Conclusions: Our results indicate that depression is related to disturbances in bone metabolism, especially in women and patients with recurrent depression, suggesting its role in context of osteoporosis development.
Helping Mothers and Daughters Talk about Environmental Breast Cancer Risk and Risk-Reducing Lifestyle Behaviors
Authors: Fisher Carla L. , Wright Kevin B. , Rising Camella J. , Cai Xiaomei , Mullis Michaela D. , Burke-Garcia Amelia , Afanaseva Dasha
Published: July 2020

Background: Mothers and daughters struggle to talk about breast cancer risk. Even less attention is paid to environmental determinants of cancer. Third-party online approaches can be helpful navigating these conversations. The aim of this study was to obtain feedback from mothers exposed to a social media intervention (“mommy bloggers”) and identify their preferences for message-design approaches that could help them talk to their daughter(s) about environmental breast cancer risk. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 mothers. A thematic analysis was conducted using the constant comparative method. Results: Mothers identified four approaches to message design that could help facilitate mother–daughter communication about environmental breast cancer risk. These included two action-oriented approaches that centered on getting the conversation started and keeping the conversation going and two approaches based on lifespan factors to promote daughters’ engagement by using age-appropriate language and visuals and focusing on developmentally specific lifestyle behaviors. Mothers also provided recommended strategies within each approach. Conclusions: Mothers identified various approaches interventionists can utilize to overcome barriers to talking to daughters about environmental breast cancer risk. To promote mother–daughter communication, the messages should be action-oriented to facilitate interaction, but also developed with lifespan and developmental considerations in mind to engage daughters.
A Metabolic Mechanism for Anaesthetic Suppression of Cortical Synaptic Function in Mouse Brain Slices—A Pilot Investigation
Authors: Voss Logan J. , Sleigh Jamie W.
Published: July 2020

Regulation of synaptically located ionotropic receptors is thought to be the main mechanism by which anaesthetics cause unconsciousness. An alternative explanation, which has received much less attention, is that of primary anaesthetic disruption of brain metabolism via suppression of mitochondrial proteins. In this pilot study in mouse cortical slices, we investigated the effect of disrupting cellular metabolism on tissue oxygen handling and cortical population seizure-like event (SLE) activity, using the mitochondrial complex I inhibitor rotenone, and compared this to the effects of the general anaesthetics sevoflurane, propofol and ketamine. Rotenone caused an increase in tissue oxygen (98 mmHg to 157 mmHg (p < 0.01)) before any measurable change in SLE activity. Thereafter, tissue oxygen continued to increase and was accompanied by a significant and prolonged reduction in SLE root mean square (RMS) activity (baseline RMS of 1.7 to 0.7 µV, p < 0.001) and SLE frequency (baseline 4.2 to 0.4 events/min, p = 0.001). This temporal sequence of effects was replicated by all three anaesthetic drugs. In conclusion, anaesthetics with differing synaptic receptor mechanisms all effect changes in tissue oxygen handling and cortical network activity, consistent with a common inhibitory effect on mitochondrial function. The temporal sequence suggests that the observed synaptic depression—as seen in anaesthesia—may be secondary to a reduction in cellular metabolic capacity.
A Timing Effect of 17-β Estradiol on Atherosclerotic Lesion Development in Female ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Ebenebe Obialunanma V. , Ashley Zoe , Erickson Jeffrey R. , Heather Alison K.
Published: July 2020

Differences in size or composition of existing plaques at the initiation of estrogen (E2) therapy may underpin evidence of increased risk of atherosclerosis-associated clinical sequelae. We investigated whether E2 had divergent effects on actively-growing versus established-advanced atherosclerotic lesions. Eight weeks of subcutaneous bi-weekly injections of 3 µg/g 17β-estradiol (n = 18) or vehicle control (n = 22) were administered to female Apolipoprotein null-mice aged 25- or 45 weeks old. Histological assessment of lesion size within the brachiocephalic artery was conducted. Lesion composition was also assessed with acellular, calcification and fibrosis areas measured and other cellular features (intimal thickening, foam cells, lipid pools and cholesterol) scored (0–3) for severity. The comparison showed increased lesion size and calcified area with advancing age but no effect of E2. However, subtle changes in composition were observed following E2. Within the younger group, E2 increased intima thickening and acceleration of calcification. In the older group, E2 increased the thickness of the lesion cap. Therefore, this study shows different effects of E2 depending on the underlying stage of lesion development at the time of initiation of treatment. These divergent changes help explain the controversy of the adverse effects of E2 treatment in cardiovascular disease.
Insulin Resistance Does Not Impair Mechanical Overload-Stimulated Glucose Uptake, but Does Alter the Metabolic Fate of Glucose in Mouse Muscle
Authors: Weyrauch Luke A. , McMillin Shawna L. , Witczak Carol A.
Published: July 2020

Skeletal muscle glucose uptake and glucose metabolism are impaired in insulin resistance. Mechanical overload stimulates glucose uptake into insulin-resistant muscle; yet the mechanisms underlying this beneficial effect remain poorly understood. This study examined whether a differential partitioning of glucose metabolism is part of the mechanosensitive mechanism underlying overload-stimulated glucose uptake in insulin-resistant muscle. Mice were fed a high-fat diet to induce insulin resistance. Plantaris muscle overload was induced by unilateral synergist ablation. After 5 days, muscles were excised for the following measurements: (1) [3H]-2-deoxyglucose uptake; (2) glycogen; 3) [5-3H]-glucose flux through glycolysis; (4) lactate secretion; (5) metabolites; and (6) immunoblots. Overload increased glucose uptake ~80% in both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant muscles. Overload increased glycogen content ~20% and this was enhanced to ~40% in the insulin-resistant muscle. Overload did not alter glycolytic flux, but did increase muscle lactate secretion 40–50%. In both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant muscles, overload increased 6-phosphogluconate levels ~150% and decreased NADP:NADPH ~60%, indicating pentose phosphate pathway activation. Overload increased protein O-GlcNAcylation ~45% and this was enhanced to ~55% in the insulin-resistant muscle, indicating hexosamine pathway activation. In conclusion, insulin resistance does not impair mechanical overload-stimulated glucose uptake but does alter the metabolic fate of glucose in muscle.
Molecular Cytogenomic Characterization of the Murine Breast Cancer Cell Lines C-127I, EMT6/P and TA3 Hauschka
Authors: Azawi Shaymaa , Liehr Thomas , Rincic Martina , Manferrari Mattia
Published: July 2020

Background: To test and introduce effective and less toxic breast cancer (BC) treatment strategies, animal models, including murine BC cell lines, are considered as perfect platforms. Strikingly, the knowledge on the genetic background of applied BC cell lines is often sparse though urgently necessary for their targeted and really justified application. Methods: In this study, we performed the first molecular cytogenetic characterization for three murine BC cell lines C-127I, EMT6/P and TA3 Hauschka. Besides fluorescence in situ hybridization-banding, array comparative genomic hybridization was also applied. Thus, overall, an in silico translation for the detected imbalances and chromosomal break events in the murine cell lines to the corresponding homologous imbalances in humans could be provided. The latter enabled a comparison of the murine cell line with human BC cytogenomics. Results: All three BC cell lines showed a rearranged karyotype at different stages of complexity, which can be interpreted carefully as reflectance of more or less advanced tumor stages. Conclusions: Accordingly, the C-127I cell line would represent the late stage BC while the cell lines EMT6/P and TA3 Hauschka would be models for the premalignant or early BC stage and an early or benign BC, respectively. With this cytogenomic information provided, these cell lines now can be applied really adequately in future research studies.
Epigenetics in Lewy Body Diseases: Impact on Gene Expression, Utility as a Biomarker, and Possibilities for Therapy
Authors: Urbizu Aintzane , Beyer Katrin
Published: July 2020

Lewy body disorders (LBD) include Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). They are synucleinopathies with a heterogeneous clinical manifestation. As a cause of neuropathological overlap with other neurodegenerative diseases, the establishment of a correct clinical diagnosis is still challenging, and clinical management may be difficult. The combination of genetic variation and epigenetic changes comprising gene expression-modulating DNA methylation and histone alterations modifies the phenotype, disease course, and susceptibility to disease. In this review, we summarize the results achieved in the deciphering of the LBD epigenome. To provide an appropriate context, first LBD genetics is briefly outlined. Afterwards, a detailed review of epigenetic modifications identified for LBD in human cells, postmortem, and peripheral tissues is provided. We also focus on the difficulty of identifying epigenome-related biomarker candidates and discuss the results obtained so far. Additionally, epigenetic changes as therapeutic targets, as well as different epigenome-based treatments, are revised. The number of studies focusing on PD is relatively limited and practically inexistent for DLB. There is a lack of replication studies, and some results are even contradictory, probably due to differences in sample collection and analytical techniques. In summary, we show the current achievements and directions for future research.
A Potential Mechanism of Tumor Progression during Systemic Infections Via the Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF)/c-Met Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tsujimoto Hironori , Horiguchi Hiroyuki , Matsumoto Yusuke , Takahata Risa , Shinomiya Nariyoshi , Yamori Takao , Miyazaki Hiromi , Ono Satoshi , Saitoh Daizoh , Kishi Yoji , Ueno Hideki
Published: July 2020

Background: Increasing evidence has demonstrated that postoperative infectious complications (PICs) after digestive surgery are significantly associated with negative long-term outcomes; however, precise mechanisms of how PICs affect the poor long-term survival remain unclear. Here, we focused on the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signaling pathway as one of those mechanisms. Methods: In the clinical setting, serum HGF levels were measured in the patients with sepsis and those with PICs after undergoing esophagectomy. Using a liver metastasis mouse model with cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), expressions of HGF and the roles of the HGF/c-Met pathway in the progression of tumor cells were examined. Results: Serum HGF levels were very high in the patients with intra-abdominal infection on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, and 5; similarly, compared to the patients without PICs, those with PICs had significantly higher serum HGF levels on 1, 3, and 5 days after esophagectomy. The patients with PICs showed poorer overall survival than those without PICs, and the patients with high serum HGF levels on POD 3 showed poorer prognosis than those with low HGF levels. Similarly, at 24 and 72 h after operation, serum levels of HGF in CLP mice were significantly higher than those in sham-operated mice. Intraperitoneal injection of mouse recombinant HGF significantly promoted liver metastases in sham-operated mice on 14 days after surgery. Knocking down c-Met expression on NL17 tumor cells by RNAi technology significantly inhibited the promotion of CLP-induced liver metastases. Conclusions: Infections after surgery increased serum HGF levels in the clinical as well as experimental settings. Induction of high serum HGF levels by CLP promoted liver metastases in a murine liver metastasis model, suggesting the involvement of the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway in tumor promotion mechanisms. Thus, targeting the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway may be a promising approach for malignant tumors, particularly in the patients with PICs.
An Examination of Clinician Responses to Problem Gambling in Community Mental Health Services
Authors: Manning Victoria , Dowling Nicki A. , Rodda Simone N. , Cheetham Ali , Lubman Dan I.
Published: July 2020

Gambling problems commonly co-occur with other mental health problems. However, screening for problem gambling (PG) rarely takes place within mental health treatment settings. The aim of the current study was to examine the way in which mental health clinicians respond to PG issues. Participants (n = 281) were recruited from a range of mental health services in Victoria, Australia. The majority of clinicians reported that at least some of their caseload was affected by gambling problems. Clinicians displayed moderate levels of knowledge about the reciprocal impact of gambling problems and mental health but had limited knowledge of screening tools to detect PG. Whilst 77% reported that they screened for PG, only 16% did so “often” or “always” and few expressed confidence in their ability to treat PG. However, only 12.5% reported receiving previous training in PG, and those that had, reported higher levels of knowledge about gambling in the context of mental illness, more positive attitudes about responding to gambling issues, and more confidence in detecting/screening for PG. In conclusion, the findings highlight the need to upskill mental health clinicians so they can better identify and manage PG and point towards opportunities for enhanced integrated working with gambling services.
Mapping the Micro-Abrasion Mechanisms of CoCrMo: Some Thoughts on Varying Ceramic Counterface Diameter on Transition Boundaries In Vitro
Authors: Sadiq Kamran , Sim Mark , Black Richard , Stack Margaret
Published: July 2020

The micro-abrasion wear mechanisms for CoCrMo against variable size alumina balls, representing typical artificial femoral head sizes, were investigated over a range of applied loads in foetal calf serum solution. SEM analysis of resulting wear scars displayed two-body and mixed-mode abrasion modes of wear. The wear factor, κ, was found to range between 0.86 and 22.87 (10−6 mm3/Nm). Micro-abrasion mechanism and wastage maps were constructed for the parameter range tested. A dominant two- to three-body abrasion regime was observed with an increasing load and ball diameter. The 28-mm ball diameter displayed the lowest wastage, with an increasing load. Proteins may act to reduce the severity of contact between abrasive particles and bearing surfaces. Wear volumes did not necessarily increase linearly with applied load and ball diameter; therefore, there is a need to develop more accurate models for wear prediction during micro-abrasion conditions. Wear mapping for hip replacements could provide a useful aid for pre-clinical hip wear evaluations and long-term performance.
Laser-Machining of Microchannels in NiTi-Based Shape-Memory Alloys: Experimental Analysis and Process Optimization
Authors: Mohammed Muneer Khan , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman
Published: July 2020

Nickel–Titanium (NiTi)-based shape-memory alloys (SMA) are utilized in automotive, biomedical, microsystem applications because of their excellent shape memory effect, biocompatibility and super elastic properties. These alloys are considered difficult to cut—especially with conventional technologies because of the work hardening and residual stresses. Laser-machining is one of the most effective tools for processing of these alloys especially for microsystem applications. In this work, a thorough investigation of effect of process parameters on machining of microchannels in NiTi SMA is presented. In addition, a multi-objective optimization is carried out in order to find the optimal input parameter settings for the desired output performances. The results show that the quality of microchannels is significantly affected by input parameters. Layer thickness was found to have a significant effect on taper angle of the microchannel. Scan speed, layer thickness and scan strategy were found to have significant effects on both spatter thickness and top-width error, but in opposite directions. The multi-objective optimization-minimizing taper angle and spatter thickness revealed an optimal solution that was characterized by high frequency, moderate speed and low layer-thickness and track displacement.
In-Situ X-ray Imaging Of Sublimating Spin-Frozen Solutions
Authors: Goethals Wannes , Vanbillemont Brecht , Lammens Joris , De Beer Thomas , Vervaet Chris , Boone Matthieu N.
Published: July 2020

Spin-freeze-drying is a promising technique to enable long-term storage of pharmaceutical unit doses of aqueous drug solutions. To investigate the sublimation of the ice during the primary phase of freeze-drying, X-ray imaging can yield crucial temporally resolved information on the local dynamics. In this paper, we describe a methodology to investigate the sublimation front during single unit-dose freeze-drying using 4D in-situ X-ray imaging. Three spin-frozen samples of different solutions were imaged using this methodology and the process characteristics were analysed and reduced to two-dimensional feature maps.
Stability and Load-Carrying Capacity of Thin-Walled FRP Composite Z-Profiles under Eccentric Compression
Authors: Debski Hubert , Samborski Sylwester , Rozylo Patryk , Wysmulski Pawel
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the effect of eccentric compressive load on the stability, critical states and load-carrying capacity of thin-walled composite Z-profiles. Short thin-walled columns made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composite material fabricated by the autoclave technique are examined. In experimental tests, the thin-walled structures were compressed until a loss of their load-carrying capacity was obtained. The test parameters were measured to describe the structure’s behavior, including the phenomenon of composite material failure. The post-critical load-displacement equilibrium paths and the acoustic emission signal enabling analysis of the composite material condition during the loading process were measured. The scope of the study also included performing numerical simulations by finite element method to solve the problem of non-linear stability and to describe the phenomenon of composite material damage based on the progressive failure model. The obtained numerical results showed a good agreement with the experimental characteristics of real structures. The numerical results are compared with the experimental findings to validate the developed numerical model.
Electrical Discharge Machining with SiC Powder-Mixed Dielectric: An Effective Application in the Machining Process of Hardened 90CrSi Steel
Authors: Tran Thi-Hong , Nguyen Manh-Cuong , Luu Anh-Tung , Do The-Vinh , Le Thu-Quy , Vu Trung-Tuyen , Tran Ngoc-Giang , Do Thi-Tam , Vu Ngoc-Pi
Published: July 2020

As a successful solution applied to electrical discharge machining (EDM), powder-mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) has been proposed as an upgrade of the EDM process. The optimization of the process parameters of PMEDM is essential and pressing. In this study, Taguchi methods and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to find the main parameters affecting surface roughness in the EDM process with SiC powder-mixed-dielectric of hardened 90CrSi steel. The PMEDM parameters selected were the powder concentration, the pulse-on-time, the pulse-off-time, the pulse current, and the server voltage. It was found that SiC powder exhibits positive effects on reducing surface roughness. The roughness obtained with the optimum powder concentration of 4 g/L was reduced by 30.02% compared to that when processed by conventional EDM. Furthermore, the pulse-off-time was found to be the most influential factor that gave an important effect on surface roughness followed by the powder concentration. The EDM condition including a powder concentration of 4 g/L, a pulse-on-time of 6 µs, a pulse-off-time of 21 µs, a pulse current of 8 A, and a server voltage of 4 V resulted in the best surface roughness.
Spin Crossover in Bipyridine Derivative Bridged One-Dimensional Iron(III) Coordination Polymer
Authors: Ishikawa Ryuta , Noda Takeshi , Ueno Shunya , Okubo Takashi , Yamakawa Hirofumi , Sakamoto Ken-ichi , Kawata Satoshi
Published: July 2020

Herein, the syntheses, solid-state molecular structures, and characterization of two types of one-dimensional FeIII coordination polymers showing thermally induced spin crossover are reported. The reaction of [Fe(acen)Cl] (acen2− = N,N′-ethylenebis(acetylacetonylideneaminate) with 3,3′-bpy or 4,4′-bpy (bpy = bipyridine) produced zigzag and linear one-dimensional chain complexes, [Fe(acen)(3,3′-bpy)][BPh4] (1) or [NEt3H][Fe(acen)(4,4′-bpy)][BPh4]2·0.5(4,4′-bpy) (2), respectively, as confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Variable-temperature single crystal X-ray diffraction measurements, continuous-wave X-band electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra, 57Fe Mössßauer spectra, and DC magnetic susceptibility data revealed that complex 1 exhibited a gradual and complete spin crossover at a transition temperature of 212 K, while complex 2 undergoes an incomplete spin crossover even at 400 K.
Subgame Consistent Cooperative Behavior in an Extensive form Game with Chance Moves
Authors: Kuzyutin Denis , Smirnova Nadezhda
Published: July 2020

We design a mechanism of the players’ sustainable cooperation in multistage n-person game in the extensive form with chance moves. When the players agreed to cooperate in a dynamic game they have to ensure time consistency of the long-term cooperative agreement. We provide the players’ rank based (PRB) algorithm for choosing a unique cooperative strategy profile and prove that corresponding optimal bundle of cooperative strategies satisfies time consistency, that is, at every subgame along the optimal game evolution a part of each original cooperative trajectory belongs to the subgame optimal bundle. We propose a refinement of the backwards induction procedure based on the players’ attitude vectors to find a unique subgame perfect equilibrium and use this algorithm to calculate a characteristic function. Finally, to ensure the sustainability of the cooperative agreement in a multistage game we employ the imputation distribution procedure (IDP) based approach, that is, we design an appropriate payment schedule to redistribute each player’s optimal payoff along the optimal bundle of cooperative trajectories. We extend the subgame consistency notion to extensive-form games with chance moves and prove that incremental IDP satisfies subgame consistency, subgame efficiency and balance condition. An example of a 3-person multistage game is provided to illustrate the proposed cooperation mechanism.
On Factorizable Semihypergroups
Authors: Heidari Dariush , Cristea Irina
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we define and study the concept of the factorizable semihypergroup, i.e., a semihypergroup that can be written as a hyperproduct of two proper sub-semihypergroups. We consider some classes of semihypergroups such as regular semihypergroups, hypergroups, regular hypergroups, and polygroups and investigate their factorization property.
Neuroprotective Potentials of Marine Algae and Their Bioactive Metabolites: Pharmacological Insights and Therapeutic Advances
Authors: Hannan Md. Abdul , Dash Raju , Haque Md. Nazmul , Mohibbullah Md. , Sohag Abdullah Al Mamun , Rahman Md. Ataur , Uddin Md Jamal , Alam Mahboob , Moon Il Soo
Published: July 2020

Beyond their significant contribution to the dietary and industrial supplies, marine algae are considered to be a potential source of some unique metabolites with diverse health benefits. The pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol homeostasis, protein clearance and anti-amyloidogenic potentials of algal metabolites endorse their protective efficacy against oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired proteostasis which are known to be implicated in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders and the associated complications after cerebral ischemia and brain injuries. As was evident in various preclinical studies, algal compounds conferred neuroprotection against a wide range of neurotoxic stressors, such as oxygen/glucose deprivation, hydrogen peroxide, glutamate, amyloid β, or 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) and, therefore, hold therapeutic promise for brain disorders. While a significant number of algal compounds with promising neuroprotective capacity have been identified over the last decades, a few of them have had access to clinical trials. However, the recent approval of an algal oligosaccharide, sodium oligomannate, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease enlightened the future of marine algae-based drug discovery. In this review, we briefly outline the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries for identifying the targets of pharmacological intervention, and then review the literature on the neuroprotective potentials of algal compounds along with the underlying pharmacological mechanism, and present an appraisal on the recent therapeutic advances. We also propose a rational strategy to facilitate algal metabolites-based drug development.
Flexible Bronchoscopy in Evaluation of Persistent Wheezing in Children—Experiences from National Pediatric Center
Authors: Sovtic Aleksandar , Grba Tijana , Grahovac Danilo , Minic Predrag
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives: Persistent wheezing (PW) is defined as prolonged or recurrent episodes of wheezing despite regular treatment. Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is recommended to determine the etiology of PW in children. This study aimed to determine the etiology of PW based on FB findings in a national pediatric center. Materials and Methods: Children presenting with PW that underwent flexible bronchoscopy from April 2016 to August 2019 at the Mother and Child Health Institute of Serbia were included in this observational study. After endoscopic evaluation, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were taken and further analyzed. Quantitative microbiology, cytological analysis and oil-red staining of specimens were performed to determine cellular constituents and presence of lipid laden macrophages (LLM). Upper gastrointestinal series were performed to exclude gastroesophageal reflux disease, swallowing dysfunction and vascular ring. Results: Pathological findings were revealed in 151 of 172 study participants, with bacterial lower airway infection (BLAI) (48.3%) and primary bronchomalacia (20.4%) as the most common. Younger participants were hospitalized for significantly longer periods (ρ = −0.366, p < 0.001). Study participants with BLAI and associated mucus plugging were notably younger (p < 0.001). Presence of LLM in BALF was not associated with findings of upper gastrointestinal series. All patients with confirmed BLAI were treated with oral antibiotics. Although FB is considered to be invasive, there were no complications associated with the procedure. Conclusions: Flexible bronchoscopy has an exceptional diagnostic value in evaluation of PW. In younger patients with BLAI, presence of mucus plugs may complicate the clinical course, so significant benefits can be achieved with therapeutic lavage during bronchoscopy.
Patent Foramen Ovale in Fetal Life, Infancy and Childhood
Authors: Das Bibhuti B.
Published: July 2020

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common, incidental echocardiographic finding in otherwise healthy and asymptomatic infants and children. However, a variety of clinical conditions have been ascribed to the presence of a PFO in childhood, such as cryptogenic stroke, platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome, decompression sickness and migraine, although the data on these are controversial and sometimes contradictory. This review discusses embryology and correlation with post-natal anatomy, anatomical variations of the atrial septum, diagnostic modalities in special circumstances of PFO associated clinical syndromes, and the role of PFO in congenital heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure in children who require an extracorporeal membrane oxygenator or ventricular assist device as life support.
Effect of Tool Geometry and Welding Parameters on Friction Stir Welded Lap Joint Formation with AA2099-T83 and AA2060-T8E30 Aluminium Alloys
Authors: Aldanondo Egoitz , Vivas Javier , Álvarez Pedro , Hurtado Iñaki
Published: July 2020

In this paper the effect of tool geometry and welding parameters on friction stir welded lap joints with AA2099-T83 and AA2060-T8E30 aluminium alloys has been investigated through the study of the material flow and weld formation along with the reaction forces during friction stir welding (FSW) for various sets of welding parameters and two FSW tools with different geometrical features. The results showed that welding parameters and tool probe geometry strongly affect the characteristics of the typical defect features (hook and cold lap defects) of the friction stir welded lap joints. From the relationship established between the welding parameters, tool probe geometry and the hook and cold lap defect formation, some guidelines are concluded with the objective of guaranteeing appropriate FSW lap joint properties.
Intermetallic/Ceramic Composites Synthesized from Al–Ni–Ti Combustion with B4C Addition
Authors: Yeh Chun-Liang , Ke Chih-Yao
Published: July 2020

The fabrication of intermetallic/ceramic composites by combustion synthesis in the mode of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) was investigated in the Al–Ni–Ti system with the addition of B4C. Two reaction systems were employed: one was used to produce the composites of xNiAl–2TiB2–TiC with x = 2–7, and the other was used to synthesize yNi3Al–2TiB2–TiC with y = 2–7. The reaction mechanism of the Al–Ni–Ti system was strongly influenced by the presence of B4C. The reaction of B4C with Ti was highly exothermic, so the reaction temperature and combustion velocity decreased due to increasing levels of Ni and Al in the reactant mixture. The activation energies of Ea = 110.6 and 172.1 kJ/mol were obtained for the fabrication of NiAl- and Ni3Al-based composites, respectively, by the SHS reaction. The XRD (X-ray diffraction) analysis showed an in situ formation of intermetallic (NiAl and Ni3Al) and ceramic phases (TiB2 and TiC) and confirmed no reactions taking place between Ti and Al or Ni. The microstructure of the product revealed large NiAl and Ni3Al grains and small TiB2 and TiC particles. With the addition of TiB2 and TiC, the hardness of NiAl and Ni3Al was considerably increased and the toughness was also improved.
Comparison of Bayesian Methods on Parameter Identification for a Viscoplastic Model with Damage
Authors: Adeli Ehsan , Rosić Bojana , Matthies Hermann G. , Reinstädler Sven , Dinkler Dieter
Published: July 2020

The state of materials and accordingly the properties of structures are changing over the period of use, which may influence the reliability and quality of the structure during its life-time. Therefore, identification of the model parameters of the system is a topic which has attracted attention in the content of structural health monitoring. The parameters of a constitutive model are usually identified by minimization of the difference between model response and experimental data. However, the measurement errors and differences in the specimens lead to deviations in the determined parameters. In this article, the focus is on the identification of material parameters of a viscoplastic damaging material using a stochastic simulation technique to generate artificial data which exhibit the same stochastic behavior as experimental data. It is proposed to use Bayesian inverse methods for parameter identification and therefore the model and damage parameters are identified by applying the Transitional Markov Chain Monte Carlo Method (TMCMC) and Gauss-Markov-Kalman filter (GMKF) approach. Identified parameters by using these two Bayesian approaches are compared with the true parameters in the simulation and with each other, and the efficiency of the identification methods is discussed. The aim of this study is to observe which one of the mentioned methods is more suitable and efficient to identify the model and damage parameters of a material model, as a highly non-linear model, using a limited surface displacement measurement vector and see how much information is indeed needed to estimate the parameters accurately.
Enteroviral Pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes: The Role of Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Nekoua Magloire Pandoua , Dechaumes Arthur , Sane Famara , Alidjinou Enagnon Kazali , Moutairou Kabirou , Yessoufou Akadiri , Hober Didier
Published: July 2020

Enteroviruses, especially group B coxsackieviruses (CV-B), have been associated with the development of chronic diseases such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). The pathological mechanisms that trigger virus-induced autoimmunity against islet antigens in T1D are not fully elucidated. Animal and human studies suggest that NK cells response to CV-B infection play a crucial role in the enteroviral pathogenesis of T1D. Indeed, CV-B-infected cells can escape from cytotoxic T cells recognition and destruction by inhibition of cell surface expression of HLA class I antigen through non-structural viral proteins, but they can nevertheless be killed by NK cells. Cytolytic activity of NK cells towards pancreatic beta cells persistently-infected with CV-B has been reported and defective viral clearance by NK cells of patients with T1D has been suggested as a mechanism leading to persistence of CV-B and triggering autoimmunity reported in these patients. The knowledge about host antiviral defense against CV-B infection is not only crucial to understand the susceptibility to virus-induced T1D but could also contribute to the design of new preventive or therapeutic approaches for individuals at risk for T1D or newly diagnosed patients.
New Frontiers on Human Safe Insecticides and Fungicides: An Opinion on Trehalase Inhibitors
Authors: Matassini Camilla , Parmeggiani Camilla , Cardona Francesca
Published: July 2020

In the era of green economy, trehalase inhibitors represent a valuable chance to develop non-toxic pesticides, being hydrophilic compounds that do not persist in the environment. The lesson on this topic that we learned from the past can be of great help in the research on new specific green pesticides. This review aims to describe the efforts made in the last 50 years in the evaluation of natural compounds and their analogues as trehalase inhibitors, in view of their potential use as insecticides and fungicides. Specifically, we analyzed trehalase inhibitors based on sugars and sugar mimics, focusing on those showing good inhibition properties towards insect trehalases. Despite their attractiveness as a target, up to now there are no trehalase inhibitors that have been developed as commercial insecticides. Although natural complex pseudo di- and trisaccharides were firstly studied to this aim, iminosugars look to be more promising, showing an excellent specificity profile towards insect trehalases. The results reported here represent an overview and a discussion of the best candidates which may lead to the development of an effective insecticide in the future.
Noble-Gas Chemistry More than Half a Century after the First Report of the Noble-Gas Compound
Authors: Mazej Zoran
Published: July 2020

Recent development in the synthesis and characterization of noble-gas compounds is reviewed, i.e., noble-gas chemistry reported in the last five years with emphasis on the publications issued after 2017. XeF2 is commercially available and has a wider practical application both in the laboratory use and in the industry. As a ligand it can coordinate to metal centers resulting in [M(XeF2)x]n+ salts. With strong Lewis acids, XeF2 acts as a fluoride ion donor forming [XeF]+ or [Xe2F3]+ salts. Latest examples are [Xe2F3][RuF6]·XeF2, [Xe2F3][RuF6] and [Xe2F3][IrF6]. Adducts NgF2·CrOF4 and NgF2·2CrOF4 (Ng = Xe, Kr) were synthesized and structurally characterized at low temperatures. The geometry of XeF6 was studied in solid argon and neon matrices. Xenon hexafluoride is a well-known fluoride ion donor forming various [XeF5]+ and [Xe2F11]+ salts. A large number of crystal structures of previously known or new [XeF5]+ and [Xe2F11]+ salts were reported, i.e., [Xe2F11][SbF6], [XeF5][SbF6], [XeF5][Sb2F11], [XeF5][BF4], [XeF5][TiF5], [XeF5]5[Ti10F45], [XeF5][Ti3F13], [XeF5]2[MnF6], [XeF5][MnF5], [XeF5]4[Mn8F36], [Xe2F11]2[SnF6], [Xe2F11]2[PbF6], [XeF5]4[Sn5F24], [XeF5][Xe2F11][CrVOF5]·2CrVIOF4, [XeF5]2[CrIVF6]·2CrVIOF4, [Xe2F11]2[CrIVF6], [XeF5]2[CrV2O2F8], [XeF5]2[CrV2O2F8]·2HF, [XeF5]2[CrV2O2F8]·2XeOF4, A[XeF5][SbF6]2 (A = Rb, Cs), Cs[XeF5][BixSb1-xF6]2 (x = ~0.37–0.39), NO2XeF5(SbF6)2, XeF5M(SbF6)3 (M = Ni, Mg, Zn, Co, Cu, Mn and Pd) and (XeF5)3[Hg(HF)]2(SbF6)7. Despite its extreme sensitivity, many new XeO3 adducts were synthesized, i.e., the 15-crown adduct of XeO3, adducts of XeO3 with triphenylphosphine oxide, dimethylsulfoxide and pyridine-N-oxide, and adducts between XeO3 and N-bases (pyridine and 4-dimethylaminopyridine). [Hg(KrF2)8][AsF6]2·2HF is a new example of a compound in which KrF2 serves as a ligand. Numerous new charged species of noble gases were reported (ArCH2+, ArOH+, [ArB3O4]+, [ArB3O5]+, [ArB4O6]+, [ArB5O7]+, [B12(CN)11Ne]−). Molecular ion HeH+ was finally detected in interstellar space. The discoveries of Na2He and ArNi at high pressure were reported. Bonding motifs in noble-gas compounds are briefly commented on in the last paragraph of this review.
Selection of the Activated Carbon Type for the Treatment of Landfill Leachate by Fenton-Adsorption Process
Authors: San-Pedro Liliana , Méndez-Novelo Roger , Hernández-Núñez Emanuel , Flota-Bañuelos Manuel , Medina Jorge , Giacomán-Vallejos Germán
Published: July 2020

Sanitary landfill leachates usually have characteristics that depend on the region where they are generated and according to the age of the landfill, which is why a unique treatment for their sanitation has not been found. However, the adsorption preceded by the Fenton process has been proven to be highly efficient at removing contaminants. In this study, the adsorptive capacity of two types of activated carbon, granular and powdered, was analyzed to determine which was more efficient in the adsorption stage in the Fenton-adsorption process. Likewise, its behavior was analyzed using three isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin), testing the raw leachate and the Fenton-treated one with both carbons. The adsorption that is carried out on the carbons is better adjusted to the Freundlich and Temkin models. It concludes that multilayers, through the physical adsorption, carry out the adsorption of pollutants on the surface of the carbons. The results show that, statistically, granular activated carbon is more efficient at removing chemical oxygen demand (COD), and powdered activated carbon removes color better. Finally, an adsorption column was designed for the Fenton-adsorption process that was able to remove 21.68 kgCOD/kg carbon. Removal efficiencies for color and COD were >99%.
Dictyostelium Cell Fixation: Two Simple Tricks
Authors: Koonce Michael , Tikhonenko Irina , Gräf Ralph
Published: July 2020

We share two simple modifications to enhance the fixation and imaging of relatively small, motile, and rounded model cells. These include cell centrifugation and the addition of trace amounts of glutaraldehyde to existing fixation methods. Though they need to be carefully considered in each context, they have been useful to our studies of the spatial relationships of the microtubule cytoskeletal system.
New Variants of Nitroxide Mediated Polymerization
Authors: Audran Gérard , Bagryanskaya Elena G. , Marque Sylvain R. A. , Postnikov Pavel
Published: July 2020

Nitroxide-mediated polymerization is now a mature technique, at 35 years of age. During this time, several variants have been developed: electron spin capture polymerization (ESCP), photoNMP (NMP2), chemically initiated NMP (CI-NMP), spin label NMP (SL-NMP), and plasmon-initiated NMP (PI-NMP). This mini-review is devoted to the features and applications of these variants.
Generic Model Control Applied to E. coli BL21(DE3) Fed-Batch Cultures
Authors: Abadli Merouane , Dewasme Laurent , Tebbani Sihem , Dumur Didier , Vande Wouwer Alain
Published: July 2020

This work proposes a Generic Model Control (GMC) strategy to regulate biomass growth in fed-batch cultures of Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The control law is established using a previously validated mechanistic model based on the overflow metabolism paradigm. A model reduction is carried out to prevent the controller from relying on kinetics, which may be uncertain. In order to limit the controller to the use of a single measurement, i.e., biomass concentration which is readily available, a Kalman filter is designed to reconstruct the nonmeasurable information from the outlet gas and the remaining stoichiometry. Several numerical simulations are presented to assess the controller robustness with respect to model uncertainty. Experimental validation of the proposed GMC strategy is achieved with a lab-scale bioreactor.
Plasma Catalytic Conversion of CH4 to Alkanes, Olefins and H2 in a Packed Bed DBD Reactor
Authors: Taheraslani Mohammadreza , Gardeniers Han
Published: July 2020

Methane is activated at ambient conditions in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma reactor packed with Pd/γ-alumina catalyst containing different loadings of Pd (0.5, 1, 5 wt%). Results indicate that the presence of Pd on γ-alumina substantially abates the formation of deposits, leads to a notable increase in the production of alkanes and olefins and additionally improves the energy efficiency compared to those obtained for the non-packed reactor and the bare γ-alumina packed reactor. A low amount of Pd (0.5 and 1 wt%) favors achieving a higher production of olefins (mainly C2H4 and C3H6) and a higher yield of H2. Increasing Pd loading to 5 wt% promotes the interaction of H2 and olefins, which consequently intensifies the successive hydrogenation of unsaturated compounds, thus incurring a higher production of alkanes (mainly C2H6 and C3H8). The substantial abatement of the deposits is ascribed to the role of Palladium in moderating the strength of the electric and shifting the reaction pathways, in the way that hydrogenation reactions of deposits’ precursors become faster than their deposition on the catalyst.