bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure of Finite-Dimensional Protori
Authors: Lewis Wayne
Published: August 2019

A Structure Theorem for Protori is derived for the category of finite-dimensional protori (compact connected abelian groups), which details the interplay between the properties of density, discreteness, torsion, and divisibility within a finite-dimensional protorus. The spectrum of resolutions for a finite-dimensional protorus are parameterized in the structure theorem by the dual category of finite rank torsion-free abelian groups. A consequence is a universal resolution for a finite-dimensional protorus, independent of a choice of a particular subgroup. A resolution is also given strictly in terms of the path component of the identity and the union of all zero-dimensional subgroups. The structure theorem is applied to show that a morphism of finite-dimensional protori lifts to a product morphism between products of periodic locally compact groups and real vector spaces.
Cytotoxicity of Dendrimers
Authors: Janaszewska Anna , Lazniewska Joanna , Trzepiński Przemysław , Marcinkowska Monika , Klajnert-Maculewicz Barbara
Published: August 2019

Drug delivery systems are molecular platforms in which an active compound is packed into or loaded on a biocompatible nanoparticle. Such a solution improves the activity of the applied drug or decreases its side effects. Dendrimers are promising molecular platforms for drug delivery due to their unique properties. These macromolecules are known for their defined size, shape, and molecular weight, as well as their monodispersity, the presence of the void space, tailorable structure, internalization by cells, selectivity toward cells and intracellular components, protection of guest molecules, and controllable release of the cargo. Dendrimers were tested as carriers of various molecules and, simultaneously, their toxicity was examined using different cell lines. It was discovered that, in general, dendrimer cytotoxicity depended on the generation, the number of surface groups, and the nature of terminal moieties (anionic, neutral, or cationic). Higher cytotoxicity occurred for higher-generation dendrimers and for dendrimers with positive charges on the surface. In order to decrease the cytotoxicity of dendrimers, scientists started to introduce different chemical modifications on the periphery of the nanomolecule. Dendrimers grafted with polyethylene glycol (PEG), acetyl groups, carbohydrates, and other moieties did not affect cell viability, or did so only slightly, while still maintaining other advantageous properties. Dendrimers clearly have great potential for wide utilization as drug and gene carriers. Moreover, some dendrimers have biological properties per se, being anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, or toxic to cancer cells without affecting normal cells. Therefore, intrinsic cytotoxicity is a comprehensive problem and should be considered individually depending on the potential destination of the nanoparticle.
Framework for the Detection, Diagnosis, and Evaluation of Thermal Bridges Using Infrared Thermography and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Ficapal Albert , Mutis Ivan
Published: August 2019

The glass curtain wall system is an architectural, functional innovation where failures of insulation systems create areas of reduced resistance to heat transfer—thermal bridges—during a building’s operational lifetime. These failures enable energy flows that trigger unanticipated temperature changes and increased energy consumption, ultimately damaging the façade structure and directly impacting occupants. Our study aims to design and test an innovative method for rapidly identifying thermal bridges in façade systems, with minimum or no occupant disturbance. The research focus is in the classification of damage as either a local failure or as being related to a poor systematic construction/assembly. A nontraditional approach is adopted to survey an entire fully operational building using infrared thermography and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) using a noncontact infrared camera mounted on and operated from the UAV. The system records the emissivity of the façade materials and calculates the thermal radiation to estimate localized temperatures. The system records thermal radiation readings which are analyzed using graphs to be compared with the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards, under ideal conditions using the THERM software. The results enable discussion relating to the most common failure areas for existing structures, facilitating the identification of focus areas for the improvement of construction methods through improved processes.
Simple Non-Destructive Method of Ultrathin Film Material Properties and Generated Internal Stress Determination Using Microcantilevers Immersed in Air
Authors: Stachiv Ivo , Gan Lifeng
Published: August 2019

Recent progress in nanotechnology has enabled to design the advanced functional micro-/nanostructures utilizing the unique properties of ultrathin films. To ensure these structures can reach the expected functionality, it is necessary to know the density, generated internal stress and the material properties of prepared films. Since these films have thicknesses of several tens of nm, their material properties, including density, significantly deviate from the known bulk values. As such, determination of ultrathin film material properties requires usage of highly sophisticated devices that are often expensive, difficult to operate, and time consuming. Here, we demonstrate the extraordinary capability of a microcantilever commonly used in a conventional atomic force microscope to simultaneously measure multiple material properties and internal stress of ultrathin films. This procedure is based on detecting changes in the static deflection, flexural and torsional resonant frequencies, and the corresponding quality factors of the microcantilever vibrating in air before and after film deposition. In contrast to a microcantilever in vacuum, where the quality factor depends on the combination of multiple different mechanical energy losses, in air the quality factor is dominated just by known air damping, which can be precisely controlled by changing the air pressure. Easily accessible expressions required to calculate the ultrathin film density, the Poisson’s ratio, and the Young’s and shear moduli from measured changes in the microcantilever resonant frequencies, and quality factors are derived. We also show that the impact of uncertainties on determined material properties is only minor. The validity and potential of the present procedure in material testing is demonstrated by (i) extracting the Young’s modulus of atomic-layer-deposited TiO2 films coated on a SU-8 microcantilever from observed changes in frequency response and without requirement of knowing the film density, and (ii) comparing the shear modulus and density of Si3N4 films coated on the silicon microcantilever obtained numerically and by present method.
Preservative Effects of Gelatin Active Coating Enriched with Eugenol Emulsion on Chinese Seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus) during Superchilling (−0.9 °C) Storage
Authors: Zhou Qianqian , Li Peiyun , Fang Shiyuan , Liu Wenru , Mei Jun , Xie Jing
Published: August 2019

This research was to evaluate the effects of gelatin (G) active coating containing eugenol/β-cyclodextrin (βCD) emulsions combined with superchilling (−0.9 °C) on physicochemical, microbiological, and organoleptic properties of Chinese seabass samples during 30 days of storage. Results showed that seabass samples dipped in G-βCD coatings containing 0.15% or 0.3% eugenol combined with superchilling could significantly lower the total volatile basic nitrogen, K value, total viable count, H2S-producing bacteria, Pseudomonas spp. and Psychrophilic counts, and free fatty acids. Further, G-βCD coatings containing eugenol with superchilling (−0.9 °C) were more effective in retarding the water migration by low field NMR and MRI results, maintaining quality of seabass during storage according to organoleptic evaluation results.
A New Multi-Temporal Forest Cover Classification for the Xingu River Basin, Brazil
Authors: Kalacska Margaret , Lucanus Oliver , Sousa Leandro , Arroyo-Mora J. Pablo
Published: August 2019

We describe a new multi-temporal classification for forest/non-forest classes for a 1.3 million square kilometer area encompassing the Xingu River basin, Brazil. This region is well known for its exceptionally high biodiversity, especially in terms of the ichthyofauna, with approximately 600 known species, 10% of which are endemic to the river basin. Global and regional scale datasets do not adequately capture the rapidly changing land cover in this region. Accurate forest cover and forest cover change data are important for understanding the anthropogenic pressures on the aquatic ecosystems. We developed the new classifications with a minimum mapping unit of 0.8 ha from cloud free mosaics of Landsat TM5 and OLI 8 imagery in Google Earth Engine using a classification and regression tree (CART) aided by field photographs for the selection of training and validation points.
Comparing Teaching Methods of Mathematics at University Level
Authors: Voskoglou Michael
Published: August 2019

According to the views of social constructivism, learning takes place when individuals engage socially to talk about and act on shared problems or interests. In recent years, this approach has been very popular for the teaching and learning of mathematics in primary and secondary education. On the contrary, in tertiary education, it seems that most teachers still prefer the traditional way of delivering explicit mathematics instruction, sometimes combined with challenging questions and mathematical discourse with the students to promote conceptual understanding and critical analysis of the mathematical context. The paper at hand presents a classroom experiment comparing those two teaching methods at university level. The outcomes of the experiment were assessed and compared with the help of the Grade Point Average index to evaluate the student quality performance and by using grey numbers to evaluate their mean performance. Further empirical research is needed to obtain definitive results on the effectiveness of those two methods for teaching mathematics at university level.
Choice without Inclusion?: Comparing the Intensity of Racial Segregation in Charters and Public Schools at the Local, State and National Levels
Authors: Vasquez Heilig Julian , Brewer T. Jameson , Williams Yohuru
Published: August 2019

We conduct descriptive and inferential analyses of publicly available Common Core of Data (CCD) to examine segregation at the local, state, and national levels. Nationally, we find that higher percentages of charter students of every race attend intensely segregated schools. The highest levels of racial isolation are at the primary level for public and middle level for charters. We find that double segregation by race and class is higher in charter schools. Charters are more likely to be segregated, even when controlling for local ethnoracial demographics. A majority of states have at least half of Blacks and a third of Latinx in intensely segregated charters. At the city level, we find that higher percentages of urban charter students were attending intensely segregated schools.
Conjugate Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Modeling for Liquid Microjet Impingement Cooling with Alternating Feeding and Draining Channels
Authors: Wei Tiwei , Oprins Herman , Cherman Vladimir , Beyne Eric , Baelmans Martine
Published: August 2019

Liquid microjet impingement cooling has shown the potential to be the solution for heat removal from electronic devices such as very-large-scale integration (VLSI) chips. The post-impingement dynamics of the jet, specifically the interaction between the liquid fronts on the surface engendered by the jets is a critical criterion improving the heat transfer characteristics. While some seminally important experimental studies have investigated this attribute, the amount of accurate data and analysis is limited by the shortcomings of real-life experiments. In this article, numerical investigations into the fluid dynamics and heat transfer in microjet cooling systems are carried out. Specifically, this paper addresses the question regarding the necessary fidelity of the simulations. Different Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) models are compared to the Large Eddy Simulations (LES) simulation and the potential fidelity of different eddy-viscosity-based closures is clearly shown. Recommendations are made regarding the RANS closures that should give the best performance. It is demonstrated that the transition Shear Stress Transport (SST) model and k - ω SST model both show excellent ability to predict the local or average Nu, and also local level pressure coefficient f with less than 5% difference in the range of 30 < Red < 4000, compared with the reference LES model. For the experimental measurements in the range of 130 < Red < 1400, the LES model, transition SST model and k - ω SST model all show less than 25% prediction error. Moreover, it is shown that the validity of the unit cell assumption for the temperature and flow distribution depends on the flow rate.
Numerical Investigation of Pressure Influence on the Confined Turbulent Boundary Layer Flashback Process
Authors: Endres Aaron , Sattelmayer Thomas
Published: August 2019

Boundary layer flashback from the combustion chamber into the premixing section is a threat associated with the premixed combustion of hydrogen-containing fuels in gas turbines. In this study, the effect of pressure on the confined flashback behaviour of hydrogen-air flames was investigated numerically. This was done by means of large eddy simulations with finite rate chemistry as well as detailed chemical kinetics and diffusion models at pressures between 0.5 bar and 3 bar. It was found that the flashback propensity increases with increasing pressure. The separation zone size and the turbulent flame speed at flashback conditions decrease with increasing pressure, which decreases flashback propensity. At the same time the quenching distance decreases with increasing pressure, which increases flashback propensity. It is not possible to predict the occurrence of boundary layer flashback based on the turbulent flame speed or the ratio of separation zone size to quenching distance alone. Instead the interaction of all effects has to be accounted for when modelling boundary layer flashback. It was further found that the pressure rise ahead of the flame cannot be approximated by one-dimensional analyses and that the assumptions of the boundary layer theory are not satisfied during confined boundary layer flashback.
Instability and Convection in Rotating Porous Media: A Review
Authors: Vadasz Peter
Published: August 2019

A review on instability and consequent natural convection in rotating porous media is presented. Taylor-Proudman columns and geostrophic flows exist in rotating porous media just the same as in pure fluids. The latter leads to a tendency towards two-dimensionality. Natural convection resulting from density gradients in a gravity field as well as natural convection induced by density gradients due to the centripetal acceleration are being considered. The former is the result of gravity-induced buoyancy, the latter is due to centripetally-induced buoyancy. The effect of Coriolis acceleration is also discussed. Linear stability analysis as well as weak nonlinear solutions are being derived and presented.
Climate Delusion: Hurricane Sandy, Sea Level Rise, and 1840s Catastrophism
Authors: Wood Gillen D’Arcy
Published: August 2019

The existential global threat of inundation of the world’s low-lying port cities necessitates a radical shift in the dominant climate framework of sustainability and resilience to include catastrophism. Scientists and social scientists of the industrial crisis decade of the 1840s, arguably the Anthropocene’s historical origin, offer a model for theorizing twenty-first century catastrophe in both geophysical and social terms, as in the case study of Hurricane Sandy presented here.
Varied Effects of Tending Ant Species on the Development of Facultatively Myrmecophilous Lycaenid Butterfly Larvae
Authors: Mizuno Takafumi , Hagiwara Yasuo , Akino Toshiharu
Published: August 2019

Ants often tend and protect the larvae of various myrmecophilous lycaenid species, which influences the fitness of butterflies by altering their growth and developmental time. Tending produces diverse effects depending on lycaenid sex and the lycaenid/ant species combination. Effects are widely variable, especially in facultatively myrmecophilous lycaenids such as Plebejus argyrognomon praeterinsularis, because they are associated with several ant species and can survive without any ant tending. We studied the effects of ant tending on the adult body mass and larval developmental time of P. argyrognomon praeterinsularis. Female larvae grew significantly heavier as adults when tended by Camponotus japonicus rather than by either Lasius japonicus or no ant species. Ant tending did not affect the body mass of adult males or the developmental time of either male or female larvae. Thus, tending by C. japonicus could increase the fitness of P. argyrognomon praeterinsularis by increasing the mass of females without prolonging the duration of vulnerable immature stages, because larger females generally lay more eggs. This means that even facultatively myrmecophilous lycaenids might gain fitness benefits from particular ant species, which could be important in the conservation and management of at-risk species of facultatively myrmecophilous lycaenids.
APEX1 Expression as a Potential Diagnostic Biomarker of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma and Hepatobiliary Carcinomas
Authors: Kim Ji-Myung , Yeo Min-Kyung , Lim Jae , Song In-Sang , Chun Kwangsik , Kim Kyung-Hee
Published: August 2019

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox effector factor 1 (APEX1) has been known to play key roles in DNA repair, the regulation of diverse transcriptional activity, and cellular responses to redox activity. This study aimed to examine serum APEX1 (s-APEX1) expression as a possible screening biomarker for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and proximal and distal cholangiocarcinoma (CC). A total of 216 frozen serum samples were collected from 39 healthy control cases, 32 patients with ≥58 copies/mL of hepatitis B viral DNA (HBV DNA (+)), 40 ccRCC cases, 59 HCC cases, and 46 CC cases. The serum samples were examined for s-APEX1 concentration by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The association of APEX1 expression with clinicopathological characteristics was also studied by immunohistochemical staining in 106 ccRCC, 131 HCC, and 32 intrahepatic CC cases. The median s-APEX1 concentrations of the HCC, CC, ccRCC, healthy control, and HBV DNA (+) groups were 0.294, 0.710, 0.474, 0.038, and 2.384 ng/mL, respectively (p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that increased cytoplasmic APEX1 expression led to a shorter disease-free survival period in HCC and CC cases. We suggest that the s-APEX1 level could be a potential diagnostic biomarker of ccRCC, HCC, and CC. Additionally, cytoplasmic APEX1 expression in cancer cells could be used to predict relapses in patients with HCC or CC.
Ghrelin Derangements in Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Impact of Myocardial Disease Duration and Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Aleksova Aneta , Beltrami Antonio , Bevilacqua Elisa , Padoan Laura , Santon Daniela , Biondi Federico , Barbati Giulia , Stenner Elisabetta , Gortan Cappellari Gianluca , Barazzoni Rocco , Ziberna Fabiana , Zwas Donna , Avraham Yosefa , Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Not Tarcisio , Livi Ugolino , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: August 2019

Background: Ghrelin may exert positive effects on cardiac structure and function in heart failure (HF) patients. Methods: We assessed ghrelin levels in 266 dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients and in 200 age, gender and body mass index (BMI) matched controls. Further, we evaluated the expression of ghrelin and growth hormone secretagogue-receptor (GHSR) in the myocardium of 41 DCM patients and in 11 controls. Results: DCM patients had significantly lower levels of total, acylated and unacylated ghrelin when compared to controls (p < 0.05 for all). In controls, we observed a negative correlation of ghrelin with age, male gender and BMI. These correlations were lost in the DCM group, except for male gender. Total ghrelin was higher in patients with more recent diagnosis when compared to patients with longer duration of the DCM (p = 0.033). Further, total ghrelin was higher in patients with lower left ventricular systolic function (<40% LVEF, vs. 40% ≤ LVEF < 49% vs. LVEF ≥ 50%: 480.8, vs. 429.7, vs. 329.5 pg/mL, respectively, p = 0.05). Ghrelin prepropeptide was expressed more in DCM patients than in controls (p = 0.0293) while GHSR was expressed less in DCM patients (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ghrelin showed an inverse correlation with its receptor (ρ = −0.406, p = 0.009), and this receptor showed a significant inverse correlation with Interleukin-1β (ρ = −0.422, p = 0.0103). Conclusion: DCM duration and severity are accompanied by alterations in the ghrelin–GHSR system.
Not All Factors Contribute Equally to European-American and Hispanic Students’ SAT Scores
Authors: Hannon Brenda
Published: August 2019

This exploratory study shows that the contributions of cognitive, metacognitive awareness, performance avoidance, test anxiety, and socioeconomic family background factors to SAT scores (i.e., overall SAT, SAT-V, SAT-M) may vary as a function of ethnicity (i.e., European-American, Hispanic). Four hundred and fifty-seven students, 282 European-American and 175 Hispanic, completed multiple measures of cognitive, metacognitive awareness, social/personality (i.e., test anxiety, performance avoidance, academic self-efficacy), and socioeconomic family background factors, which were used in regression analyses predicting overall SAT, SAT-V, and SAT-M scores. The results show that most factors contributed significantly to overall SAT, SAT-M, and SAT-V scores. In addition, the ethnicity X test anxiety interaction was significant for all three SAT measures, a finding that suggests ethnic differences in the contributions of test anxiety to overall SAT, SAT-M, and SAT-V scores. For European-American students, test anxiety had no influence on overall SAT and SAT-M scores, whereas for Hispanic students test anxiety had a negative influence on overall SAT and SAT-M scores. For SAT-V scores, interpreting the ethnicity X test anxiety interaction was more complicated because both the significant main effect of test anxiety and the ethnicity X test anxiety interaction must be interpreted together. Whereas test anxiety negatively influenced European-Americans’ SAT-V scores, this negative influence was less than the influence it had on Hispanic students’ SAT-V scores. Indeed, for Hispanic students with high test anxiety, this negative influence was profound. Taken as a whole, these results suggest that any theory explaining the SAT may need to take into account multiple predictors as well as the possibility that the contributions of these predictors may vary as a function of ethnicity.
Omics Meeting Onics: Towards the Next Generation of Spectroscopic-Based Technologies in Personalized Medicine
Authors: Peng Weng , Paesani Daniele
Published: August 2019

This article aims to discuss the recent development of integrated point-of-care spectroscopic-based technologies that are paving the way for the next generation of diagnostic monitoring technologies in personalized medicine. Focusing on the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technologies as the leading example, we discuss the emergence of -onics technologies (e.g., photonics and electronics) and how their coexistence with -omics technologies (e.g., genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) can potentially change the future technological landscape of personalized medicine. The idea of an open-source (e.g., hardware and software) movement is discussed, and we argue that technology democratization will not only promote the dissemination of knowledge and inspire new applications, but it will also increase the speed of field implementation.
Preparation and Application of Iron Oxide Nanoclusters
Authors: Antone Angelo J. , Sun Zaicheng , Bao Yuping
Published: August 2019

Magnetic iron oxide nanoclusters, which refers to a group of individual nanoparticles, have recently attracted much attention because of their distinctive behaviors compared to individual nanoparticles. In this review, we discuss preparation methods for creating iron oxide nanoclusters, focusing on synthetic procedures, formation mechanisms, and the quality of the products. Then, we discuss the emerging applications for iron oxide nanoclusters in various fields, covering traditional and novel applications in magnetic separation, bioimaging, drug delivery, and magnetically responsive photonic crystals.
Optimizing the Low-Carbon Flexible Job Shop Scheduling Problem with Discrete Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Luan Fei , Cai Zongyan , Wu Shuqiang , Liu Shi Qiang , He Yixin
Published: August 2019

The flexible job shop scheduling problem (FJSP) is a difficult discrete combinatorial optimization problem, which has been widely studied due to its theoretical and practical significance. However, previous researchers mostly emphasized on the production efficiency criteria such as completion time, workload, flow time, etc. Recently, with considerations of sustainable development, low-carbon scheduling problems have received more and more attention. In this paper, a low-carbon FJSP model is proposed to minimize the sum of completion time cost and energy consumption cost in the workshop. A new bio-inspired metaheuristic algorithm called discrete whale optimization algorithm (DWOA) is developed to solve the problem efficiently. In the proposed DWOA, an innovative encoding mechanism is employed to represent two sub-problems: Machine assignment and job sequencing. Then, a hybrid variable neighborhood search method is adapted to generate a high quality and diverse population. According to the discrete characteristics of the problem, the modified updating approaches based on the crossover operator are applied to replace the original updating method in the exploration and exploitation phase. Simultaneously, in order to balance the ability of exploration and exploitation in the process of evolution, six adjustment curves of a are used to adjust the transition between exploration and exploitation of the algorithm. Finally, some well-known benchmark instances are tested to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms for the low-carbon FJSP.
Geodesic Mappings of Vn(K)-Spaces and Concircular Vector Fields
Authors: Shandra Igor G. , Mikeš Josef
Published: August 2019

In the present paper, we study geodesic mappings of special pseudo-Riemannian manifolds called V n ( K ) -spaces. We prove that the set of solutions of the system of equations of geodesic mappings on V n ( K ) -spaces forms a special Jordan algebra and the set of solutions generated by concircular fields is an ideal of this algebra. We show that pseudo-Riemannian manifolds admitting a concircular field of the basic type form the class of manifolds closed with respect to the geodesic mappings.
A Modified Self-Adaptive Conjugate Gradient Method for Solving Convex Constrained Monotone Nonlinear Equations for Signal Recovery Problems
Authors: Abubakar Auwal Bala , Kumam Poom , Awwal Aliyu Muhammed , Thounthong Phatiphat
Published: August 2019

In this article, we propose a modified self-adaptive conjugate gradient algorithm for handling nonlinear monotone equations with the constraints being convex. Under some nice conditions, the global convergence of the method was established. Numerical examples reported show that the method is promising and efficient for solving monotone nonlinear equations. In addition, we applied the proposed algorithm to solve sparse signal reconstruction problems.
Comparative Metabolomic Analysis of Rapeseeds from Three Countries
Authors: Yang Ruinan , Deng Ligang , Zhang Liangxiao , Yue Xiaofeng , Mao Jin , Ma Fei , Wang Xiupin , Zhang Qi , Zhang Wen , Li Peiwu
Published: August 2019

Rapeseed is an important oilseed with proper fatty acid composition and abundant bioactive components. Canada and China are the two major rapeseed-producing countries all over the world. Meanwhile, Canada and Mongolia are major importers of rapeseed due to the great demand for rapeseed in China. To investigate the metabolites in rapeseeds from three countries, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS)-based metabolomics was employed to analyze rapeseeds from China, Canada, and Mongolia. As results, 67, 53, and 68 metabolites showed significant differences between Chinese and Canadian, Chinese and Mongolian, and Canadian and Mongolian rapeseeds, respectively. Differential metabolites were mainly distributed in the metabolic pathways including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, and ubiquinone and other terpenoid-quinone biosynthesis. Among the differential metabolites, contents of sinapate and sinapine were higher in Chinese rapeseeds, while the contents of brassicasterol, stigmasterol, and campestanol were higher in Canadian rapeseeds. These findings might provide insight into the metabolic characteristics of rapeseeds from three countries to guide processing and consumption of the products of rapeseed.
Processes and Conditions of the Origin for Fe3+-Bearing Magnesiowüstite under Lithospheric Mantle Pressures and Temperatures
Authors: Bataleva Yuliya , Palyanov Yuri , Borzdov Yuri , Bayukov Oleg
Published: August 2019

An experimental study, implicated in the revealing of the conditions for the origin for Fe3+-bearing magnesiowüstite in the lithospheric mantle, was performed using Mössbauer spectroscopy of pre-synthesized samples. Experiments were carried out using a multi-anvil high-pressure split-sphere apparatus at 6.3–7.5 GPa, in the range of 1100–1650 °C in carbonate-metal, carbonate–oxide-metal, carbonate-oxide, carbide-oxide and carbonate–metal- sulphur systems. In three experimental series, oxygen fugacity gradient in the samples was created, which enabled the study of the processes of magnesiowüstite formation under oxidizing and reducing conditions (ΔlogfO2 (FMQ) values from −1 to −5). It was established that Fe3+-bearing magnesiowüstite can form both in assemblage with oxidized phases, such as carbonate or with reduced ones—metal, carbides, sulphides, graphite and diamond. According to the Mössbauer spectroscopy, the composition of synthesized magnesiowüstite varied within a range of Fe3+/ΣFe values from 0 to 0.3, with IV and VI coordination of Fe3+ depending on P, T, fO2, x-parameters. It was established that Fe3+-bearing magnesiowüstite formation processes under upper mantle P,T-conditions include redox reactions, with magnesiowüstite being (1) reductant or (2) product of interaction, (3) crystallization processes of magnesiowüstite from an oxidized melt, where magnesiowüstite acts as a sink for ferric iron and (4) iron disproportionation.
Galactosaminoglycans: Medical Applications and Drawbacks
Authors: Pomin Vitor H. , Vignovich William P. , Gonzales Alysia V. , Vasconcelos Ariana A. , Mulloy Barbara
Published: August 2019

Galactosaminoglycans (GalAGs) are sulfated glycans composed of alternating N-acetylgalactosamine and uronic acid units. Uronic acid epimerization, sulfation patterns and fucosylation are modifications observed on these molecules. GalAGs have been extensively studied and exploited because of their multiple biomedical functions. Chondroitin sulfates (CSs), the main representative family of GalAGs, have been used in alternative therapy of joint pain/inflammation and osteoarthritis. The relatively novel fucosylated chondroitin sulfate (FCS), commonly found in sea cucumbers, has been screened in multiple systems in addition to its widely studied anticoagulant action. Biomedical properties of GalAGs are directly dependent on the sugar composition, presence or lack of fucose branches, as well as sulfation patterns. Although research interest in GalAGs has increased considerably over the three last decades, perhaps motivated by the parallel progress of glycomics, serious questions concerning the effectiveness and potential side effects of GalAGs have recently been raised. Doubts have centered particularly on the beneficial functions of CS-based therapeutic supplements and the potential harmful effects of FCS as similarly observed for oversulfated chondroitin sulfate, as a contaminant of heparin. Unexpected components were also detected in CS-based pharmaceutical preparations. This review therefore aims to offer a discussion on (1) the current and potential therapeutic applications of GalAGs, including those of unique features extracted from marine sources, and (2) the potential drawbacks of this class of molecules when applied to medicine.
CA-170 – A Potent Small-Molecule PD-L1 Inhibitor or Not?
Authors: Musielak Bogdan , Kocik Justyna , Skalniak Lukasz , Magiera-Mularz Katarzyna , Sala Dominik , Czub Miroslawa , Stec Malgorzata , Siedlar Maciej , Holak Tad A. , Plewka Jacek
Published: August 2019

CA-170 is currently the only small-molecule modulator in clinical trials targeting PD-L1 and VISTA proteins – important negative checkpoint regulators of immune activation. The reported therapeutic results to some extent mimic those of FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies overcoming the limitations of the high production costs and adverse effects of the latter. However, no conclusive biophysical evidence proving the binding to hPD-L1 has ever been presented. Using well-known in vitro methods: NMR binding assay, HTRF and cell-based activation assays, we clearly show that there is no direct binding between CA-170 and PD-L1. To strengthen our reasoning, we performed control experiments on AUNP-12 – a 29-mer peptide, which is a precursor of CA-170. Positive controls consisted of the well-documented small-molecule PD-L1 inhibitors: BMS-1166 and peptide-57.
Dynamically Temperature-Voltage Controlled Multifunctional Device Based on VO2 and Graphene Hybrid Metamaterials: Perfect Absorber and Highly Efficient Polarization Converter
Authors: Mao Min , Liang Yaoyao , Liang Ruisheng , Zhao Lin , Xu Ning , Guo Jianping , Wang Faqiang , Meng Hongyun , Liu Hongzhan , Wei Zhongchao
Published: August 2019

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a temperature phase change material that has metallic properties at high temperatures and insulation properties at room temperature. In this article, a novel device has been designed based on the dielectric metasurface consisting of VO2 and graphene array, which can achieve multiple functions by adjusting temperature and voltage. When the temperature is high (340 K), the device is in the absorption state and its absorptivity can be dynamically controlled by changing the temperature. On the other hand, the device is in the polarization state under room temperature, and the polarization of electromagnetic waves can be dynamically controlled by adjusting the voltage of graphene. This device can achieve a broadband absorber (the maximum absorptance reaches 99.415% at wavelengths ranging from 44 THz to 52 THz) and high polarization conversion efficiency (>99.89%) in the mid-infrared range, which has great advantages over other single-function devices. Our results demonstrate that this multifunctional device may have widespread applications in emitters, sensors, spatial light modulators, IR camouflages, and can be used in thermophotovoltaics and wireless communication.
Impedance Model of Cylindrical Nanowires for Metamaterial Applications
Authors: Alam Mehboob , Mahmood Ali , Azam Shahida , Butt Madiha Saher , Haq Anwar Ul , Massoud Yehia
Published: August 2019

In metamaterials, metallic nanowires are used for creating artificial materials to functionalize them for various nanophotonics applications. Strong polarization-dependent response coupled with complex dielectric function at optical frequencies gives additional degrees of freedom to achieve scattering, absorption, and other benefits that go much beyond what is possible with conventional materials. In this paper, we propose an extended cylindrical wave impedance approach at optical frequencies to model the internal and external impedance of the metallic nanowire. Equivalent analytical expression for the scattering, extinction, and absorption cross-sectional area efficiencies are derived in terms of impedances. The motivation is to develop an all-mode solution ( TM n and TE n modes), by bringing the complex problem of plasmonic nanowire to linear system theory, where established methods can be applied to enable new applications. The equivalence of the impedance solution is compared with electromagnetic field solution and numerical full-wave field simulations. The proposed solution is accurate and may contribute to the rapid and efficient future designs for the metallic nanowire-based nanophotonic metamaterials.
N-acetyl Cysteine Coated Gallium Particles Demonstrate High Potency against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Young Mikaeel , Ozcan Ali , Lee Briana , Maxwell Tyler , Andl Thomas , Rajasekaran Parthiban , Beazley Melanie J. , Tetard Laurene , Santra Swadeshmukul
Published: August 2019

Nosocomial infections pose serious health concerns with over 2 million reported annually in the United States. Many of these infections are associated with bacterial resistance to antibiotics and hence, alternative treatments are critically needed. The objective of this study was to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of a gallium (Ga)-based particle coated with N-Acetyl Cysteine (Ga-NAC) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Our studies showed the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of PAO1 treated with Ga-NAC was 1 µg/mL. Cytotoxicity of Ga-NAC against multiple cell lines was determined with no cytotoxicity observed up to concentrations of 2000 µg/mL (metal concentration), indicating a high therapeutic window. To elucidate potential antibacterial modes of action, Inductively Coupled Plasma—Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used. The results suggest improved Ga3+ interaction with PAO1 through Ga-NAC particles. No significant change in cell membrane chemistry or roughening was detected. As cell membrane integrity remained intact, the antimicrobial mode of action was linked to cellular internalization of Ga and subsequent iron metabolic disruption. Furthermore, Ga-NAC inhibited and disrupted biofilms seen with crystal violet assay and microscopy. Our findings suggest the Ga-NAC particle can potentially be used as an alternative to antibiotics for treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Improved In Vitro Model for Intranasal Mucosal Drug Delivery: Primary Olfactory and Respiratory Epithelial Cells Compared with the Permanent Nasal Cell Line RPMI 2650
Authors: Ladel Simone , Schlossbauer Patrick , Flamm Johannes , Luksch Harald , Mizaikoff Boris , Schindowski Katharina
Published: August 2019

Background: The epithelial layer of the nasal mucosa is the first barrier for drug permeation during intranasal drug delivery. With increasing interest for intranasal pathways, adequate in vitro models are required. Here, porcine olfactory (OEPC) and respiratory (REPC) primary cells were characterised against the nasal tumour cell line RPMI 2650. Methods: Culture conditions for primary cells from porcine nasal mucosa were optimized and the cells characterised via light microscope, RT-PCR and immunofluorescence. Epithelial barrier function was analysed via transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and FITC-dextran was used as model substance for transepithelial permeation. Beating cilia necessary for mucociliary clearance were studied by immunoreactivity against acetylated tubulin. Results: OEPC and REPC barrier models differ in TEER, transepithelial permeation and MUC5AC levels. In contrast, RPMI 2650 displayed lower levels of MUC5AC, cilia markers and TEER, and higher FITC-dextran flux rates. Conclusion: To screen pharmaceutical formulations for intranasal delivery in vitro, translational mucosal models are needed. Here, a novel and comprehensive characterisation of OEPC and REPC against RPMI 2650 is presented. The established primary models display an appropriate model for nasal mucosa with secreted MUC5AC, beating cilia and a functional epithelial barrier, which is suitable for long-term evaluation of sustained release dosage forms.
Beyond the Barrier: Targeted Radionuclide Therapy in Brain Tumors and Metastases
Authors: Puttemans Janik , Lahoutte Tony , D’Huyvetter Matthias , Devoogdt Nick
Published: August 2019

Brain tumors are notoriously difficult to treat. The blood-brain barrier provides a sanctuary site where residual and metastatic cancer cells can evade most therapeutic modalities. The delicate nature of the brain further complicates the decision of eliminating as much tumorous tissue as possible while protecting healthy tissue. Despite recent advances in immunotherapy, radiotherapy and systemic treatments, prognosis of newly diagnosed patients remains dismal, and recurrence is still a universal problem. Several strategies are now under preclinical and clinical investigation to optimize delivery and maximize the cytotoxic potential of pharmaceuticals with regards to brain tumors. This review provides an overview of targeted radionuclide therapy approaches for the treatment of primary brain tumors and brain metastases, with an emphasis on biological targeting moieties that specifically target key biomarkers involved in cancer development.
A Conflict-Detecting and Early-Warning System for Multi-Plan Integration in Small Cities and Towns Based on Cloud Service Platform
Authors: Du Ningrui , Zhang Ming , Huang Jingnan , Wang Guoen
Published: August 2019

Multi-plan integration (MPI) is a major effort initiated by China’s State Council for the purpose of streamlining development plans made by various public agencies in provincial and city governments. Small cities and towns are facing challenges to achieve MPI goals due to lack of technological infrastructure and professional expertise. This article presents a system to assist small cities and towns to carry out their MPI tasks. The system, named conflict-detecting and early-warning for MPI (CDEW4MPI) is developed based on a cloud service platform. CDEW4MPI enables small cities and towns in remote locations to detect inconsistency and conflicts among multiple plans. The system includes two modules. One is conflict-detecting, which identifies spatial conflicts in boundary designation among different plans from different agencies. The other is early-warning, which analyzes and reports potential encroachment of proposed local plans to urban growth boundary, the baseline for ecological protection, and the farmland under permanent preservation. CDEW4MPI was implemented as a demo project in Shennongjia Forestry District, a municipality in the western mountainous region of Hubei Province, China. The paper presents the design of CDEW4MPI and its implementation in Shennongjia and draws lessons from the Shennongjia case for broad interests in smart management of spatial resources.
A Review of Reverse Logistics: An Upstream Construction Supply Chain Perspective
Authors: Pushpamali NNC , Agdas Duzgun , Rose Timothy M.
Published: August 2019

Construction industry activities, from material extraction to the end of the structure life, affect the environment negatively. For a sustainable construction process, economically, environmentally, and socially friendly practices are essential, and reverse logistics is one solution that can provide such an approach. In reverse logistics, obsolete products are reused in a new production, while reducing negative effects to the environment. In this study, we assess the current state of research on reverse logistics practices in the construction industry. The study presents a comparative data mining analysis, followed by a content analysis. The results show that the construction industry literature ignores the impact of reverse logistics practices on upstream construction activities. We argue that industry practitioners must take reverse logistics decisions in the early phases of the construction process by considering both upstream and end-of-life construction activities, and we recommend a reverse logistics decision framework for successful reverse logistics implementation. The findings of this research are significant for decision-makers in the industry. We urge that sustainable practices be employed in the industry. Furthermore, a quantitative analysis is suggested to strengthen the arguments made in this article.
Thinking Outside the Box: Deepening Private Sector Investments in Fiji’s Nationally Determined Contributions through Scenario Analysis
Authors: Samuwai Jale , Hills Jeremy Maxwell , Michalena Evanthie
Published: August 2019

Private finance is seen as the financing panacea for resourcing the nationally determined contributions (NDC) submitted by 170 countries to the United Nations (UN) system. Mobilizing private investment is challenging, especially for vulnerable Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Fifteen PICs have already submitted ambitious NDC targets, in which transition towards a sustainable energy environment through investment in renewable energy (RE) is central. Presently, RE investments in PICs are primarily external donor financed, however, reliance on limited and uncertain external finance is unlikely to deliver the required energy transition. A future scenario methodology was used, with Fiji as a case-study; the analysis provided insight into alternative trajectories towards transition. Based on the scenario analysis, an NDC resource mobilization framework was developed. Conclusions suggest that donors should re-orientate their priorities from investments in RE installations, towards investments that upgrade the current RE readiness levels and promote a long-term perspective of “organically growing” the local private RE sector. Channeling resources to target initiatives that will endogenously grow the domestic private sector is critical for PICs, as well as other developing countries, which represent a majority of the NDCs, and which are projected to dominate global growth in energy demand for decades to come.
The Nature of Unconscious Attention to Subliminal Cues
Authors: Prasad Seema , Mishra Ramesh Kumar
Published: August 2019

Attentional selection in humans is mostly determined by what is important to them or by the saliency of the objects around them. How our visual and attentional system manage these various sources of attentional capture is one of the most intensely debated issues in cognitive psychology. Along with the traditional dichotomy of goal-driven and stimulus-driven theories, newer frameworks such as reward learning and selection history have been proposed as well to understand how a stimulus captures attention. However, surprisingly little is known about the different forms of attentional control by information that is not consciously accessible to us. In this article, we will review several studies that have examined attentional capture by subliminal cues. We will specifically focus on spatial cuing studies that have shown through response times and eye movements that subliminal cues can affect attentional selection. A majority of these studies have argued that attentional capture by subliminal cues is entirely automatic and stimulus-driven. We will evaluate their claims of automaticity and contrast them with a few other studies that have suggested that orienting to unconscious cues proceeds in a manner that is contingent with the top-down goals of the individual. Resolving this debate has consequences for understanding the depths and the limits of unconscious processing. It has implications for general theories of attentional selection as well. In this review, we aim to provide the current status of research in this domain and point out open questions and future directions.