bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlled Synthesis of Hydroxyapatite Nanomaterials Regulated by Different Phosphorus Sources
Authors: Qi Mei-li , Qin Sijia , Wang Yin-chuan , Yao Shengkun , Qi Liang , Wu Yanling , Lu Yu-peng , Cui Fengkun
Published: August 2020

The morphology, nanostructures, and crystallinity of hydroxyapatite (HA) materials have significant effects on their physicochemical properties and biomedical applications. However, the controllable synthesis of HA nanomaterials with various size and morphology using the same synthesis system, though desirable, has remained a challenge. In this work, we successfully synthesized HA nanomaterials with different morphologies via a one-step solvothermal route in the same reaction system. By using (NaPO3)3, Na3PO4·12H2O and NaH2PO4·2H2O as phosphorus sources, the growth of HA crystals was regulated, resulting in the transformation of HA nanomaterials morphology from nanorods to nanowires. Different concentrations of PO43− and OH− ions in the reaction environments regulated by different phosphates lead to different nanostructures of HA crystals. Our work provides an instructive way to controllably fabricate HA nanomaterials with various morphologies and will widen the biomedical applications of HA materials.
Exploration of Aluminum and Titanium Alloys in the Stream-Wise and Secondary Flow Directions Comprising the Significant Impacts of Magnetohydrodynamic and Hybrid Nanofluid
Authors: Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Khan Umair , Zaib Aurang , Khan Ilyas , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: August 2020

This exploration examines the nonlinear effect of radiation on magnet flow consisting of hybrid alloy nanoparticles in the way of stream-wise and cross flow. Many experimental, as well as theoretical explorations, demonstrated that the thermal conductivity of the regular liquid increases by up to 15 to 40% when nanomaterials are mixed with the regular liquid. This change of the thermal conductivity of the nanoliquid depends on the various characteristics of the mixed nanomaterials like the size of the nanoparticles, the agglomeration of the particles, the volume fraction, etc. Researchers have used numerous nanoparticles. However, we selected water-based aluminum alloy (AA7075) and titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) hybrid nanomaterials. This condition was mathematically modeled by capturing the Soret and Dufour impacts. The similarity method was exercised to change the partial differential equations (PDEs) into nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Such nonlinear ODEs were worked out numerically via the bvp4c solver. The influences of varying the parameters on the concentration, temperature, and velocity area and the accompanying engineering quantities such as friction factor, mass, and heat transport rate were obtained and discussed using graphs. The velocity declines owing to nanoparticle volume fraction in the stream-wise and cross flow directions in the first result and augment in the second result, while the temperature and concentration upsurge in the first and second results. In addition, the Nusselt number augments due to the Soret number and declines due to the Dufour number in both results, whereas the Sherwood number uplifts due to the Dufour number and shrinks due to the Soret number in both results.
Study on Texture and Grain Orientation Evolution in Cold-Rolled BCC Steel by Reaction Stress Model
Authors: Zhang Ning , Meng Li , Zhang Wenkang , Mao Weimin
Published: August 2020

The evolution of texture and grain orientations in a cold-rolled steel of BCC structure was simulated by a reaction stress (RS) model. The results show that cold-rolled texture could be assessed based on a RS model because the stress and strain are considered to remain consistent in the deformation process. The strain consistency is actualized by the cooperation of two plastic strains and an elastic strain. The accumulation range of each reaction stress and different activation abilities of {110}<111> and {112}<111> slip systems strongly affect the calculated deformation textures. The values of reaction stress are influenced by elastic anisotropy; however, the effects are greatly reduced because its corresponding reaction stress accumulation is limited. Typical α-fiber and γ-fiber textures are achieved when the reaction stress accumulation coefficients αijs are chosen suitably. Furthermore, the αij values that are selected based on statistically calculated textures can also be used to simulate the orientation change of multiple orientations. The existence of reaction stress is able to stabilize crystallographically symmetrical orientations under rolling deformation, in which the Schmid factors of several slip systems are identical.
Perceptions on Adherence to Dietary Prescriptions for Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Okoyo Opiyo Rose , Nyawade Susan Akoth , McCaul Michael , Nyasulu Peter Suwirakwenda , Lango Daniel Bolo , Were Anthony Jude Omolo , Nabakwe Esther Clyde , Bukania Zipporah Nekesa , Olenja Joyce Muhenge
Published: August 2020

Diet is one of the modifiable lifestyle factors in management of kidney disease. We explored perceptions on adherence to dietary prescriptions for adults with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis. This was a qualitative descriptive study. Participants were purposively selected at renal clinics/dialysis units at national referral hospitals in Kenya. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, note-taking and voice-recording. The data were managed and analyzed thematically in NVIV0-12 computer software. Study participants were 52 patients and 40 family caregivers (42 males and 50 females) aged 20 to 69 years. Six sub-themes emerged in this study: “perceived health benefits”; “ease in implementing prescribed diets”; “cost of prescribed renal diets”; “nutrition information and messages”; “transition to new diets” and “fear of complications/severity of disease”. Both patients and caregivers acknowledged the health benefits of adherence to diet prescriptions. However, there are mixed messages to the patients and caregivers who have challenges with management and acceptability of the prescriptions. Most of them make un-informed dietary decisions that lead to consumption of unhealthy foods with negative outcomes such as metabolic waste accumulation in the patients’ bodies negating the effects of dialysis and undermining the efforts of healthcare system in management of patients with chronic kidney disease.
“Tomorrow Never Dies”: Recent Advances in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Modalities against Coronavirus (COVID-19) amid Controversies
Authors: Laskar Partha , Yallapu Murali M. , Chauhan Subhash C.
Published: August 2020

The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (2019-nCoV or COVID-19) is responsible for severe health emergency throughout the world. The attack of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is found to be responsible for COVID-19. The World Health Organization has declared the ongoing global public health emergency as a pandemic. The whole world fights against this invincible enemy in various capacities to restore economy, lifestyle, and safe life. Enormous amount of scientific research work(s), administrative strategies, and economic measurements are in place to create a successful step against COVID-19. Furthermore, differences in opinion, facts, and implementation methods laid additional layers of complexities in this battle against survival. Thus, a timely overview of the recent, important, and overall inclusive developments against this pandemic is a pressing need for better understanding and dealing with COVID-19. In this review, we have systematically summarized the epidemiological studies, clinical features, biological properties, diagnostic methods, treatment modalities, and preventive measurements related to COVID-19.
Some Notes on Quantum Information in Spacetime
Authors: Licata Ignazio
Published: August 2020

The results obtained since the 70s with the study of Hawking radiation and the Unruh effect have highlighted a new domain of authority of relativistic principles [...]
Improving the Maintenance of Railway Switches through Proactive Approach
Authors: Papa Gregor , Poklukar Špela , Frankó Attila , Sillitti Alberto , Kancilija Aleš , Šterk Marjan , Hegedűs Csaba , Moldován István , Varga Pal , Riccardi Mario , Esposito Salvatore
Published: August 2020

A strong necessity for faster mass transport with high capacities and frequent runs has put pressure on railway infrastructure. These changes require an improvement in the maintenance activities that need to be planned carefully to reduce as much as possible their impacts on the actual use of the infrastructure. As a consequence, it is crucial to continuously monitor the technical equipment of the railroad tracks in the most efficient way. Railway switches operate in harsh environmental conditions. However, their reliability requirements are high due to safety and economic factors. Their maintenance depends on the data collected and the decisions on due corrective actions. The more frequent the data collection, the shorter the decision cycle; and the more intuitive the data visualization, the better the confidence in the system. This paper presents some tangible results, where the MANTIS concepts were applied to the use-case of railway switches to introduce continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance of the railroad tracks. The presented results include the measurement method; the analysis of the measured data; the profiling and modelling of the physical behaviour of the switch, including the recognized need to have separate models per season; and the visualization of the gathered data.
Diversity of Phytophthora Communities across Different Types of Mediterranean Vegetation in a Nature Reserve Area
Authors: Riolo Mario , Aloi Francesco , La Spada Federico , Sciandrello Saverio , Moricca Salvatore , Santilli Elena , Pane Antonella , Cacciola Santa Olga
Published: August 2020

Research Highlights: Protected natural areas are a reservoir of Phytophthora species and represent the most suitable sites to study their ecology, being less disturbed by human activities than other environments. Background and Objectives: The specific objective of this study was to correlate the diversity and distribution of Phytophthora species with the vegetation in aquatic, riparian and terrestrial habitats within a protected area in Eastern Sicily, Southern Italy. Materials and Methods: Environmental samples (water and soil) were sourced from two streams running through the reserve and six different types of vegetation, including Platano-Salicetum pedicellatae, the Sarcopoterium spinosum community, Myrto communis-Pistacietum lentisci, Pistacio-Quercetum ilicis,Oleo-Quercetum virgilianae and a gallery forest dominated by Nerium oleander (Natura 2000 classification of habitats). Phytophthora species were recovered from samples using leaf baiting and were classified on the basis of morphological characteristics and sequencing of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Results: As many as 11 Phytophthora species, within five different ITS clades, were identified, including P. asparagi, P. bilorbang, P. cryptogea, P. gonapodyides, P. lacustris, P. multivora, P. nicotianae, P. oleae, P. parvispora, P. plurivora and P. syringae. No Phytophthora species were found in the Sarcopoterium spinosum comm. Phytophthora asparagi, P. lacustris and P. plurivora were the prevalent species in the other five plant communities, but only P. plurivora was present in all of them. Overall aquatic species from clade 6 (100 out of 228 isolates) were the most common; they were recovered from all five types of vegetation, streams and riparian habitats. Phytophthora populations found in the Platano-Salicetum pedicellatae and Oleo-Quercetum virgilianae show the highest diversity, while no correlation was found with the physicochemical characteristics of the soil. Conclusions: The vegetation type and the aquatic or terrestrial habitat were identified as major environmental factors correlated with the diversity of Phytophthora communities in this reserve.
A Limited Rapid Assessment of Forest Regeneration in 24 Cypress and Tupelo Bottomland Swamps Following Clearcutting and Shovel Logging in the Coastal Plain of North Carolina
Authors: Slye James N. , Lang Albert J. , Gerow Tom A.
Published: August 2020

A rapid regeneration survey within twenty-four deepwater swamps between stand ages 2 and 14 years in the North Carolina coastal plain was conducted by using a narrow rectangular inventory technique (“strip cruise”). Inventoried tracts predominantly contained cypress (Taxodium distichum) and tupelo (Nyssa species) before being harvested via clearcutting methods. Single transects on each tract began at coordinates located in the interior of the harvest areas in locations representing general tract conditions. Each transect was perpendicular to the flow of the major stream drainage associated with the harvest area. Counts and measures of dead and live stumps and seed-sourced regeneration were recorded. About 52 percent of desirable timber species stumps tallied had coppice growth. However, coppice alone was not sufficient on any tract to exceed 1112 trees ha−1. Seventy-one percent of tracts had stocking levels (coppice and seed source) at least 1112 trees ha−1 of desirable timber species or black willow (Salix nigra). Across 24 tracts, 42 percent regenerated cypress and/or tupelo to levels exceeding 1112, trees ha−1. This assessment revealed that forest regeneration success was limited on sites with altered hydrology, rampant invasive species, and/or lack of seed source. In some cases, active forest management may improve the regeneration cohort. Overall, shovel logging methods that were used on evaluated sites appear to be compatible with adequate regeneration of desirable timber species if the proper conditions exist. Additionally, we assessed species’ composition within a harvested stand measured at age eight years (a previous study) and age 68 years (measured for this study), for a comparison perspective. Results revealed a species composition change from willow at age eight years to a mixed stand of desirable timber species at age 68 years. This finding supports other studies that have recorded the successional pattern of pioneering willow shifting to desirable timber species as willow stagnates and diminishes in abundance due to natural mortality.
Estimating Land Use and Land Cover Change in North Central Georgia: Can Remote Sensing Observations Augment Traditional Forest Inventory Data?
Authors: Moisen Gretchen G. , McConville Kelly S. , Schroeder Todd A. , Healey Sean P. , Finco Mark V. , Frescino Tracey S.
Published: August 2020

Throughout the last three decades, north central Georgia has experienced significant loss in forest land and tree cover. This study revealed the temporal patterns and thematic transitions associated with this loss by augmenting traditional forest inventory data with remotely sensed observations. In the US, there is a network of field plots measured consistently through time from the USDA Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program, serial photo-based observations collected through image-based change estimation (ICE) methodology, and historical Landsat-based observations collected through TimeSync. The objective here was to evaluate how these three data sources could be used to best estimate land use and land cover (LULC) change. Using data collected in north central Georgia, we compared agreement between the three data sets, assessed the ability of each to yield adequately precise and temporally coherent estimates of land class status as well as detect net and transitional change, and we evaluated the effectiveness of using remotely sensed data in an auxiliary capacity to improve detection of statistically significant changes. With the exception of land cover from FIA plots, agreement between paired data sets for land use and cover was nearly 85%, and estimates of land class proportion were not significantly different for overlapping time intervals. Only the long time series of TimeSync data revealed significant change when conducting analyses over five-year intervals and aggregated land categories. Using ICE and TimeSync data through a two-phase estimator improved precision in estimates but did not achieve temporal coherence. We also show analytically that using auxiliary remotely sensed data for post-stratification for binary responses must be based on maps that are extremely accurate in order to see gains in precision. We conclude that, in order to report LULC trends in north central Georgia with adequate precision and temporal coherence, we need data collected on all the FIA plots each year over a long time series and broadly collapsed LULC classes.
New Formulation towards Healthier Meat Products: Juniperus communis L. Essential Oil as Alternative for Sodium Nitrite in Dry Fermented Sausages
Authors: Tomović Vladimir , Šojić Branislav , Savanović Jovo , Kocić-Tanackov Sunčica , Pavlić Branimir , Jokanović Marija , Đorđević Vesna , Parunović Nenad , Martinović Aleksandra , Vujadinović Dragan
Published: August 2020

The effect of Juniperus communis L. essential oil (JEO) addition at concentrations of 0.01, 0.05 and 0.10 µL/g on pH, instrumental parameters of color, lipid oxidation (2-Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)), microbial growth, texture and sensory attributes of dry fermented sausages produced with different levels of fat (15 and 25%) and sodium nitrite (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg) was assessed. Reduced level of sodium nitrite (75 mg/kg) in combination with all three concentrations of JEO (0.01–0.10 µL/g) resulted in satisfying physico-chemical (color and texture) properties and improved oxidative stability (TBARS < 0.3 mg MDA/kg) of dry fermented sausages produced with 25% of fat. However, sausages produced with 0.10 µL/g of JEO had untypical flavor. No foodborne pathogens (Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp. and sulfite-reducing clostridia) were detected in any sample throughout the storage period (225 days). The results of this study revealed significant antioxidative activity of JEO and consequently its high potential as effective partial replacement for sodium nitrite in dry fermented sausages.
Parameter Identification in the Two-Dimensional Riesz Space Fractional Diffusion Equation
Authors: Brociek Rafał , Chmielowska Agata , Słota Damian
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the application of the swarm intelligence algorithm for solving the inverse problem concerning the parameter identification. The paper examines the two-dimensional Riesz space fractional diffusion equation. Based on the values of the function (for the fixed points of the domain) which is the solution of the described differential equation, the order of the Riesz derivative and the diffusion coefficient are identified. The paper includes numerical examples illustrating the algorithm’s accuracy.
New Perspectives on SNARE Function in the Yeast Minimal Endomembrane System
Authors: Grissom James H. , Segarra Verónica A. , Chi Richard J.
Published: August 2020

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is one of the best model organisms for the study of endocytic membrane trafficking. While studies in mammalian cells have characterized the temporal and morphological features of the endocytic pathway, studies in budding yeast have led the way in the analysis of the endosomal trafficking machinery components and their functions. Eukaryotic endomembrane systems were thought to be highly conserved from yeast to mammals, with the fusion of plasma membrane-derived vesicles to the early or recycling endosome being a common feature. Upon endosome maturation, cargos are then sorted for reuse or degraded via the endo-lysosomal (endo-vacuolar in yeast) pathway. However, recent studies have shown that budding yeast has a minimal endomembrane system that is fundamentally different from that of mammalian cells, with plasma membrane-derived vesicles fusing directly to a trans-Golgi compartment which acts as an early endosome. Thus, the Golgi, rather than the endosome, acts as the primary acceptor of endocytic vesicles, sorting cargo to pre-vacuolar endosomes for degradation. The field must now integrate these new findings into a broader understanding of the endomembrane system across eukaryotes. This article synthesizes what we know about the machinery mediating endocytic membrane fusion with this new model for yeast endomembrane function.
The Value of the English Major Today
Authors: Beal Jane
Published: August 2020

This essay explores the value of the undergraduate English major today in terms of the knowledge and skills it develops, graduate school and employment opportunities it provides, and self-actualization and social improvement it fosters. From the perspective of an English department chair, this essay stresses both the tangible and intangible benefits of the study of literature and writing, and it does so as a defense against those that seek to cut funding or devolve English departments. With reference to data from both a small, private, liberal arts college in southern California and national sources to give context, the essay shows how the English major is not only perennially valuable, but particularly valuable today in the midst of the world-wide coronavirus pandemic and the protests that aim to arrest police brutality against African Americans and their communities.
Sarcopenic Obesity and Activities of Daily Living in Stroke Rehabilitation Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Matsushita Tatsuya , Nishioka Shinta , Taguchi Shiori , Yamanouchi Anna , Nakashima Ryusei , Wakabayashi Hidetaka
Published: August 2020

Reports investigating the relationship between sarcopenic obesity and activities of daily living in older patients with stroke were limited. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity and its association with activities of daily living in older post-stroke patients in convalescent rehabilitation wards. This study was performed in older post-stroke patients admitted to convalescent rehabilitation wards between January 2017 and March 2019. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the skeletal muscle mass index and hand grip strength according to the criteria of the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. Obesity was diagnosed according to the body fat percentage; ≥27% in men, ≥38% in women. The primary outcome was the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score upon admission, which was analyzed using multiple linear regression. In total, 376 participants (women 44%; mean age 77.5 years) were analyzed and classified as normal (22%), simple obesity (17%), sarcopenia without obesity (32%), and sarcopenic obesity (28%). The presence of sarcopenic obesity was independently associated with the FIM score (95% CI, −16.157 to −5.353), whereas simple obesity and sarcopenia without obesity were not. In conclusion, sarcopenic obesity was independently associated with lower activities of daily living capability in older patients with stroke.
Physical Activity on Prescription in Routine Health Care: 1-Year Follow-Up of Patients with and without Counsellor Support
Authors: Andersen Pia , Holmberg Sara , Årestedt Kristofer , Lendahls Lena , Nilsen Per
Published: August 2020

The effectiveness of counsellor support in addition to physical activity on prescription (PAP) from health care professionals has rarely been evaluated. This observational follow-up study investigated differences in physical activity levels and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) one year after PAP regarding patients’ use of counsellor support in addition to PAP in routine care. The study was conducted in a Swedish health care region in which all patients receiving PAP from health care professionals were offered counsellor support. Data were collected from medical records and questionnaires (baseline and follow-up). Of the 400 study participants, 37% used counsellor support. The group of counsellor users attained a higher level of physical activity one year after receiving PAP compared to the group of non-users (p < 0.001). The level of physical activity was measured by a validated index (score 3–19) calculated from weekly everyday activity and exercise training. Comparison of the change in scores between baseline and follow-up showed a significant difference between the two groups, (p < 0.001). The median difference in the PAP + C group was 2.0 (interquartile range, 7.0) and 0.0. among non-users (interquartile range, 4.0). Significant differences in HRQoL were due to positive improvements among counsellor users, with the main improvement in general health. The conclusion is that patients using counsellor support after receiving PAP from health care professionals had higher physical activity and better HRQoL one year after compared with patients who did not use this support.
A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review: Infidelity, Romantic Jealousy and Intimate Partner Violence against Women
Authors: Pichon Marjorie , Treves-Kagan Sarah , Stern Erin , Kyegombe Nambusi , Stöckl Heidi , Buller Ana Maria
Published: August 2020

Infidelity and romantic jealousy (RJ) are commonly cited relational level drivers of intimate partner violence (IPV) but remain undertheorized and underutilized in IPV research and prevention. This global systematic review aims to characterize the existing research on real or suspected infidelity and RJ in relation to IPV and inform future research and programming. We systematically searched 11 databases for peer-reviewed research, published between April 2009 and 2019, that provided data on the prevalence or a measure of association (quantitative), or pathway (qualitative), between real or suspected infidelity or RJ, and IPV. Fifty-one papers from 28 countries were included and the evidence showed a consistent association between real or suspected infidelity, RJ and IPV. Our findings identify three overarching mechanisms and six pathways between infidelity, RJ and IPV. These provide support for prominent theories in the field related to patriarchal culture, threatened masculinities and femininities and a lack of emotional regulation and conflict resolution skills, but not evolutionary theories. Our findings suggest that researchers should use standardized measurement tools that make the distinction between RJ and suspected, confirmed and accusations of infidelity. Policy and programming should aim to transform traditional gender roles, accounting for infidelity and RJ and improving couple’s communication and trust.
Reduced IκB-α Protein Levels in Peripheral Blood Cells of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis—A Possible Cause of Constitutive NF-κB Activation
Authors: Yan Jun , McCombe Pamela A. , Pender Michael P. , Greer Judith M.
Published: August 2020

NF-κB signaling pathways are dysregulated in both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral blood cells in multiple sclerosis (MS), but the cause of this is unknown. We have recently reported that peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with MS have increased constitutive activation and translocation of the transcription factor NF-κB to the nucleus compared to healthy subjects. NF-κB can be activated through either canonical or non-canonical pathways. In the canonical pathway, activation of NF-κB is normally negatively regulated by the inhibitor IκB. We therefore hypothesized that the increased activation of NF-κB could be caused by reduced IκB-α in the cells of patients with MS, possibly due to increased activity of the IκB kinase (IKK) complex, which regulates IκB-α. Alternatively, changes to the activity of key molecules in the non-canonical pathway, such as IKKα, could also lead to increased NF-κB activation. We therefore used Western blotting to detect IκB-α levels and ELISA to investigate NF-κB DNA binding activity and phosphorylation of IKKα and IKKβ in samples from PBMC of MS patients and controls. The level of full-length IκB-α protein in the cytosolic fraction of PBMC of MS patients was significantly reduced compared to healthy subjects, with significantly more evidence of multiple low molecular weight putative degradation products of IκB-α present in MS patients compared to healthy subjects. Conversely, the level of NF-κB DNA binding activity was increased in whole cell lysates from MS patients. Both IKKα and IKKβ showed increased overall activity in MS compared to healthy subjects, although not all of the MS patients showed increased activity compared to the healthy subjects, suggesting that there may be several different mechanisms underlying the constitutive activation of NF-κB in MS. Taken together, these findings suggest that there may be multiple points at which the NF-κB pathway is dysregulated in MS and that decreased levels of the full-length IκB-α protein are a major component in this.
General Overview of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Opportunistic Pathogens: Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: To Kimberly , Cao Ruoqiong , Yegiazaryan Aram , Owens James , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: August 2020

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are emerging human pathogens, causing a wide range of clinical diseases affecting individuals who are immunocompromised and who have underlying health conditions. NTM are ubiquitous in the environment, with certain species causing opportunistic infection in humans, including Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus. The incidence and prevalence of NTM infections are rising globally, especially in developed countries with declining incidence rates of M. tuberculosis infection. Mycobacterium avium, a slow-growing mycobacterium, is associated with Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections that can cause chronic pulmonary disease, disseminated disease, as well as lymphadenitis. M. abscessus infections are considered one of the most antibiotic-resistant mycobacteria and are associated with pulmonary disease, especially cystic fibrosis, as well as contaminated traumatic skin wounds, postsurgical soft tissue infections, and healthcare-associated infections (HAI). Clinical manifestations of diseases depend on the interaction of the host’s immune response and the specific mycobacterial species. This review will give a general overview of the general characteristics, vulnerable populations most at risk, pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention for infections caused by Mycobacterium avium, in the context of MAC, and M. abscessus.
Telomeres, DNA Damage and Ageing: Potential Leads from Ayurvedic Rasayana (Anti-Ageing) Drugs
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Martins Natália
Published: August 2020

Ageing, while a relentless, unidirectional and pleiotropic phenomenon of life, is a key trigger for several age-related disorders, such as cancer, cataract, osteoporosis, hypertension, cardiovascular (CV), metabolic and even neurodegenerative ailments, including Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD) disease [...]
Stable Clinical Course of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients in the Era of Double Bronchodilator Therapy: A Single Referral Center Experience
Authors: Shin Sun Hye , Kang Noeul , Cho Juhee , Choi Yeonseok , Cho Hyun Kyu , Choi Hye Sook , Kim Hojoong , Lim Jun Hyeok , Park Hye Yun
Published: August 2020

Despite clinical benefits of long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)/long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) double bronchodilator therapy, there has been limited evidence for treatment change from LAMA/LABA to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)-containing therapy. This study aimed to assess the rate of ICS-containing therapy from LAMA/LABA and investigate the factors associated with ICS addition. Between October 2015 and March 2019, consecutive patients prescribed with a LAMA/LABA fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) therapy without ICS were retrospectively identified from a single-referral hospital. The primary outcome was addition of ICS. During LAMA/LABA FDCs therapy (median, 12.4 months), 47 (17.7%) out of 266 patients had ICS addition. Most patients maintained bronchodilators without addition of ICS at 12 (86.5%) or 24 (76.8%) months. Patients with dyspnea (mMRC ≥ 2) at baseline, previous ICS use, and exacerbation in the previous year were at a higher risk of ICS addition. Especially, exacerbation in the previous year and dyspnea were associated with the development of frequent exacerbations during LAMA/LABA FDCs therapy, which might have led to ICS addition. Double bronchodilator therapy could be well-maintained in stable COPD patients. However, patients with exacerbation in the previous year, dyspnea, and previous ICS use should be closely approached and monitored with initiation of LAMA/LABA FDCs therapy without ICS.
Dynamic Analysis of Suction Stabilized Floating Platforms
Authors: C. Subramanian Susheelkumar , Dye Michaela , Redkar Sangram
Published: August 2020

The occurrence of parametric resonance due to the time varying behavior of ocean waves could lead to catastrophic damages to offshore structures. A stable structure that could withstand the wave perturbations is quintessential to operate in such a harsh environment. In this work, the authors detail the relevance of a Suction Stabilized Float (SSF) or a Suction Stabilized Floating platform towards such an application. A generic design of a symmetrically shaped float structure along with its inherent stabilization behavior is discussed. Furthermore, the authors extend their prior research on this topic towards modelling the dynamics of SSF and perform stability analysis. The authors demonstrate the dynamical characteristics of SSF analytically using Floquet theory and Normal Forms technique, in this work. Additionally, the simulation results are verified and validated with the numerical methods.
Seaweed’s Bioactive Candidate Compounds to Food Industry and Global Food Security
Authors: Leandro Adriana , Pacheco Diana , Cotas João , Marques João C. , Pereira Leonel , Gonçalves Ana M. M.
Published: August 2020

The world population is continuously growing, so it is important to keep producing food in a sustainable way, especially in a way that is nutritious and in a sufficient quantity to overcome global needs. Seaweed grows, and can be cultivated, in seawater and generally does not compete for arable land and freshwater. Thus, the coastal areas of the planet are the most suitable for seaweed production, which can be an alternative to traditional agriculture and can thus contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. There are evolving studies that characterize seaweed’s nutritional value and policies that recognize them as food, and identify the potential benefits and negative factors that may be produced or accumulated by seaweed, which are, or can be, dangerous for human health. Seaweeds have a high nutritional value along with a low caloric input and with the presence of fibers, proteins, omega 3 and 6 unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, several seaweed sub-products have interesting features to the food industry. Therefore, the focus of this review is in the performance of seaweed as a potential alternative and as a safe food source. Here described is the nutritional value and concerns relating to seaweed consumption, and also how seaweed-derived compounds are already commercially explored and available in the food industry and the usage restrictions to safeguard them as safe food additives for human consumption.
Temperature Threshold Values of Bone Necrosis for Thermo-Explantation of Dental Implants—A Systematic Review on Preclinical In Vivo Research
Authors: Kniha Kristian , Heussen Nicole , Weber Eugenia , Möhlhenrich Stephan Christian , Hölzle Frank , Modabber Ali
Published: August 2020

Purpose: Very high or low temperatures will lead to bone damage. The objective of this review was to analyze threshold values for thermal bone necrosis. Methods: Histological animal studies evaluating thermal effects on bone necrosis were selected via electronic and hand searches in English and German language journals until 1 November 2019. The outcome measures were temperature-exposure intervals and laser settings effecting bone damage. Furthermore, investigated parameters were the bone-to-implant contact ratios (BIC) and infrabony pockets around dental implants after thermal treatment. For quality assessment of studies, the CAMARADES study quality checklist was applied. Results: A total of 455 animals in 25 animal studies were included for data extraction after screening of 45 titles from 957 selected titles of the MEDLINE (PubMed), The Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science search. The threshold values for bone necrosis ranged between 47 °C and 55 °C for 1 min. A threshold value for cryoinsult and laser treatment has not yet been defined. However, temperatures in the vicinity of 3.5 °C produce a histologically proven effect on the bone and in the surrounding tissue. At 50 °C for 1 min, BIC values significantly decreased and infrabony pockets increased. Bone quality had an influence on the outcome, as cancellous bone suffered higher bone damage from thermal treatment compared to cortical bone. Conclusion: No clear threshold value for bone necrosis is available according to the current literature for warm and cold stimuli. More in-depth and clinical studies are required to provide further insights in assessing the potential of thermal necrosis for implant removal.
3D Printing of Continuous Fiber Reinforced Low Melting Point Alloy Matrix Composites: Mechanical Properties and Microstructures
Authors: Wang Xin , Tian Xiaoyong , Yin Lixian , Li Dichen
Published: August 2020

A novel 3D printing route to fabricate continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composite (CFRMMC) is proposed in this paper. It is distinguished from the 3D printing process of polymer matrix composite that utilizes the pressure inside the nozzle to combine the matrix with the fiber. This process combines the metallic matrix with the continuous fiber by utilizing the wetting and wicking performances of raw materials to form the compact internal structures and proper fiber-matrix interfaces. CF/Pb50Sn50 composites were printed with the Pb50Sn50 alloy wire and modified continuous carbon fiber. The mechanical properties of the composite specimens were studied, and the ultimate tensile strength reached 236.7 MPa, which was 7.1 times that of Pb50Sn50 alloy. The fracture and interfacial microstructure were investigated and analyzed. The relationships between mechanical properties and interfacial reactions were discussed. With the optimized process parameters, several composites parts were printed to demonstrate the advantages of low cost, short fabrication period and flexibility in fabrication of complex structures.
Empirical Investigations during WEDM of Ni-27Cu-3.15Al-2Fe-1.5Mn Based Superalloy for High Temperature Corrosion Resistance Applications
Authors: Aggarwal Vivek , Pruncu Catalin Iulian , Singh Jujhar , Sharma Shubham , Pimenov Danil Yurievich
Published: August 2020

Monel K-500, a nickel–copper based alloy, is a very hard and tough material. Machining of such hard and tough materials always becomes a challenge for industry and this has been resolved by wire electric discharge machining (WEDM), a popular non-conventional machining method used for machining tough and hard materials having complex shapes. For the first time reported in this present research work is an experimental investigation executed on Ni-27Cu-3.15Al-2Fe-1.5Mn based superalloy using WEDM to model cutting rate (CR) and surface roughness (SR) using response surface methodology (RSM). The process parameters have been selected as pulse-on time, pulse-off time, spark-gap voltage and wire-feed rate. Experiments have been planned according to the central composite design (CCD). The results show that pulse-on time has a direct effect on CR while the pulse-off time has a reverse effect. The CR increases as pulse-on time increases, and decreases as pulse-off time increases. SR increases as pulse-on time increases, and decreases as pulse-off time increases. Furthermore, increase in spark-gap voltage decreases CR and SR both. The wire feed-rate has a negligible effect for both the response parameters. The optimized values of CR and SR achieved through multi-response optimization are 2.48 mm/min and 2.12 µm, respectively.
Nanoporous Anodic Aluminum-Iron Oxide with a Tunable Band Gap Formed on the FeAl3 Intermetallic Phase
Authors: Chilimoniuk Paulina , Socha Robert P. , Czujko Tomasz
Published: August 2020

Nanostructured anodic oxide layers on an FeAl3 intermetallic alloy was prepared by two-step anodization in 20 wt.% H2SO4 at 0 °C. The obtained anodic oxide coating was subjected to phase and chemical composition analysis using XPS and XRD techniques. An analysis of the band gap of individual coatings was also performed. The applied parameters of the anodization process were determined, enabling the formation of a nanostructured coating on the FeAl3 intermetallic alloy. Tests were carried out on samples produced at a voltage between 10 V and 22.5 V in 2.5 V steps. The produced coatings were subjected to an annealing process at 900 °C for 2 h in an argon protective atmosphere. Moreover, the influence of the substrate chemical composition on the chemical and phase composition of the anodic oxide are discussed. Band gaps of 2.37 eV at 22.5 V and 2.64 eV at 10 V were obtained directly after the anodizing process. After applying the heat treatment, band gap values of 2.10 eV at 22.5 Vand 2.48 eV for the coating produced at 10 V were obtained.
Generators of Analytic Resolving Families for Distributed Order Equations and Perturbations
Authors: Fedorov Vladimir E.
Published: August 2020

Linear differential equations of a distributed order with an unbounded operator in a Banach space are studied in this paper. A theorem on the generation of analytic resolving families of operators for such equations is proved. It makes it possible to study the unique solvability of inhomogeneous equations. A perturbation theorem for the obtained class of generators is proved. The results of the work are illustrated by an example of an initial boundary value problem for the ultraslow diffusion equation with the lower-order terms with respect to the spatial variable.
Gastric Microbiome Diversities in Gastric Cancer Patients from Europe and Asia Mimic the Human Population Structure and Are Partly Driven by Microbiome Quantitative Trait Loci
Authors: Cavadas Bruno , Camacho Rui , Ferreira Joana C. , Ferreira Rui M. , Figueiredo Ceu , Brazma Alvis , Fonseca Nuno A. , Pereira Luísa
Published: August 2020

The human gastrointestinal tract harbors approximately 100 trillion microorganisms with different microbial compositions across geographic locations. In this work, we used RNASeq data from stomach samples of non-disease (164 individuals from European ancestry) and gastric cancer patients (137 from Europe and Asia) from public databases. Although these data were intended to characterize the human expression profiles, they allowed for a reliable inference of the microbiome composition, as confirmed from measures such as the genus coverage, richness and evenness. The microbiome diversity (weighted UniFrac distances) in gastric cancer mimics host diversity across the world, with European gastric microbiome profiles clustering together, distinct from Asian ones. Despite the confirmed loss of microbiome diversity from a healthy status to a cancer status, the structured profile was still recognized in the disease condition. In concordance with the parallel host-bacteria population structure, we found 16 human loci (non-synonymous variants) in the European-descendent cohorts that were significantly associated with specific genera abundance. These microbiome quantitative trait loci display heterogeneity between population groups, being mainly linked to the immune system or cellular features that may play a role in enabling microbe colonization and inflammation.
Microstructure Investigation of Oil-Bearing Rhyolites: A Case Study from the Hailar Basin, NE China
Authors: Mao Anqi , Zheng Han , Sun Xiaomeng
Published: August 2020

Understanding the microstructure of rhyolites may greatly promote exploration efforts on rhyolitic hydrocarbon reservoirs; however, related studies are sparse. In this contribution, the microstructure and related porosity of oil-bearing rhyolitic lavas from the Hailar Basin (NE China) were investigated using a combination of optical microscopy, fluorescence image analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The direct visual and quantitative analyses show that the rhyolites are heterogeneous and porous rocks and have complex microstructures. Phenocryst-rich rhyolitic lava, perlitic lava, and spherulitic rhyolite may be favorable targets for rhyolitic hydrocarbon exploration. For the phenocryst-rich rhyolitic lavas, embayment pores, cleavages, cavitational and shear fractures, and intracrystalline sieve pores are commonly observed in the phenocrysts; while flow-parallel laminar and micropores are ubiquitous in the groundmass. Perlitic lavas are characterized by the occurrence of numerous perlitic fractures which can also be produced in the glassy groundmass of other lavas. Spherulitic rhyolites mainly consist of small-sized (<1 mm) clustered or large-sized (>1 mm) isolated spherulites. Clustered spherulites are characterized by the development of interspherulite pores. Isolated spherulites contain numerous radiating micropores. Both types of spherulites may have water expulsion pores formed in the spherulite–glass border. The formation of the microstructure and related porosity of rhyolites is controlled by pre-, syn- (e.g., deuteric crystal dissolution, cavitation, ductile–brittle deformation, and high-T devitrification), and post-volcanic (e.g., hydration and low-T devitrification) processes. Although pores with diameters > 50 μm are often observed, small pores dominate in pore-size distribution. Small (<15 μm) and large (>300 μm) pores give the most volumetric contribution in most cases. Medium-sized pores with diameters ranging from ~150–300 μm are the least developed and contribute the least to the total volume. The results of this paper can be beneficial to further the understanding of the microstructure and pore system of rhyolites and may be applied to rhyolitic lava hydrocarbon reservoirs elsewhere.
Fabrication of a Novel AgBr/Ag2MoO4@InVO4 Composite with Excellent Visible Light Photocatalytic Property for Antibacterial Use
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Jia , Zhu Qingjun , Zhang Binbin , Xu Huihui , Duan Jizhou , Hou Baorong
Published: August 2020

A novel AgBr/Ag2MoO4@InVO4 composite photocatalyst with different heterojunction structures was successfully constructed by compounding InVO4 with Ag2MoO4 and AgBr. According to the degradation, antibacterial and free radical trapping data, the photocatalytic antibacterial and antifouling activities of AgBr/Ag2MoO4@InVO4 composite were evaluated, and the corresponding photocatalytic reaction mechanism was proposed. Adding AgBr/Ag2MoO4@InVO4 composite, the degradation rate of ciprofloxacin (CIP) achieved 95.5% within 120 min. At the same time, the antibacterial rates of Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) achieved 99.99%. The AgBr/Ag2MoO4@InVO4 composite photocatalyst showed promising usage in photocatalytic antibacterial and purification areas.