bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammasome-Mediated Inflammation in Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Jiménez-Castro Mónica B. , Cornide-Petronio María Eugenia , Gracia-Sancho Jordi , Peralta Carmen
Published: September 2019

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is an important cause of liver damage occurring during surgical procedures including hepatic resection and liver transplantation, and represents the main underlying cause of graft dysfunction and liver failure post-transplantation. To date, ischemia-reperfusion injury is an unsolved problem in clinical practice. In this context, inflammasome activation, recently described during ischemia-reperfusion injury, might be a potential therapeutic target to mitigate the clinical problems associated with liver transplantation and hepatic resections. The present review aims to summarize the current knowledge in inflammasome-mediated inflammation, describing the experimental models used to understand the molecular mechanisms of inflammasome in liver ischemia-reperfusion injury. In addition, a clear distinction between steatotic and non-steatotic livers and between warm and cold ischemia-reperfusion injury will be discussed. Finally, the most updated therapeutic strategies, as well as some of the scientific controversies in the field will be described. Such information may be useful to guide the design of better experimental models, as well as the effective therapeutic strategies in liver surgery and transplantation that can succeed in achieving its clinical application.
Synthesis of Silane Functionalized Graphene Oxide and Its Application in Anti-Corrosion Waterborne Polyurethane Composite Coatings
Authors: Chen Chao , Wei Shicheng , Xiang Bin , Wang Bo , Wang Yujiang , Liang Yi , Yuan Yue
Published: September 2019

In this study, novel silane functionalized graphene oxide (PVSQ-GO) composite material is synthesized through the hydrolysis condensation reaction of vinyl triethoxysilane monomers occurred at the surface of graphene oxide. Results obtained from FTIR, Raman, X-ray photoelectronic spectroscopy (XPS), XRD and TGA measurements reveal that polyvinyl sesquisiloxane microspheres adhere to graphene oxide lamellae in the form of chemical bonds. Meanwhile, it is intuitive that abundant polyvinyl sesquisiloxane microspheres stick to the surface of graphene oxide and increase the thickness of the flake. Modified graphene oxide changes from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity were owing to the existence of polyvinyl sesquisiloxane microspheres on the surface of graphene oxide (GO). PVSQ-GO composite exhibited good dispersion in eco-friendly waterborne polyurethane coating. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy manifested that the anti-corrosion performance of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coating embedded at 0.5 wt.% PVSQ-GO composite improved effectively. Tafel curves reveal that 0.5 wt.% PVSQ-GO/WPU coating specimen shows the lowest corrosion rate of 8.95 × 10−5 mm/year when compared with the other coating specimens. The good anti-corrosion abilities of PVSQ-GO composite coating can be interpreted as the good compatibility between PVSQ-GO composite and waterborne polyurethane, however, the intrinsic hydrophobicity of PVSQ-GO composite is beneficial to inhibit the permeation of corrosive medium and thus slows down the corrosion rate.
Optimization of the Oxidation Behavior and Mechanical Properties by Designing the TiB2/ZrO2 Multilayers
Authors: Mao Dong , Xu Yang , Dong Lei , Wu Jie , Zhao Mengli , Li Dejun
Published: September 2019

TiB2/ZrO2 multilayers with different modulation ratios (at a fixed modulation period of 50 nm) ranging from 2:1 to 6:1 were deposited by magnetron sputtering. The oxidation behavior of the as-deposited multilayers was investigated at 600 °C in air. The microstructures, mechanical properties, and oxidation resistance of the multilayers were analyzed and compared. The results indicate that discontinuous oxidation retarded the inward diffusion of oxygen and the outward diffusion of metallic components. The formation of dense (Ti, B)-oxide scale and internally inserted ZrO2 layers in the TiB2/ZrO2 multilayers enhanced the oxidation resistance. Moreover, the oxidation resistance of the multilayers increased as modulation ratio decreased. The hardness and elastic modulus of the TiB2/ZrO2 multilayers were maximized (23.9 and 303.1 GPa, respectively) at the modulation ratio of 6:1. After annealing, the formation of thick ZrO2 layers did not lead to sustained increases in hardness. The maximum hardness and elastic modulus were obtained at the critical modulation ratio of 4:1, and good adhesion strength with the substrate was also observed. The oxidation mechanism and experimental results demonstrate that controlling the modulation ratio of multilayers can produce synergetic enhancements in the oxidation resistance and mechanical properties of multilayers after high-temperature oxidation.
Open IoT Architecture for Continuous Patient Monitoring in Emergency Wards
Authors: Pereira Carlos , Mesquita João , Guimarães Diana , Santos Frederico , Almeida Luis , Aguiar Ana
Published: September 2019

Due to multiple reasons, emergency wards can become overloaded with patients, some of which can be in critical health conditions. To improve the emergency service and avoid deaths and serious adverse events that could be potentially prevented, it is mandatory to do a continuous monitoring of patients physiological parameters. This is a good fit for Internet of Things (IoT) technology, but the scenario imposes hard constraints on autonomy, connectivity, interoperability, and delay. In this paper, we propose a full Internet-based architecture using open protocols from the wearable sensors up to the monitoring system. Particularly, we use low-cost and low-power WiFi-enabled wearable physiological sensors that connect directly to the Internet infrastructure and run open communication protocols, namely, oneM2M. At the upper end, our architecture relies on openEHR for data semantics, storage, and monitoring. Overall, we show the feasibility of our open IoT architecture exhibiting 20–50 ms end-to-end latency and 30–50 h sensor autonomy at a fraction of the cost of current non-interoperable vertical solutions.
A Dry Electrode Cap and Its Application in a Steady-State Visual Evoked Potential-Based Brain–Computer Interface
Authors: Wu Xiaoting , Zheng Li , Jiang Lu , Huang Xiaoshan , Liu Yuanyuan , Xing Lihua , Xing Xiao , Wang Yijun , Pei Weihua , Yang Xiaowei , Liu Zhiduo , Wei Chunrong , Li Yamin , Yuan Miao , Chen Hongda
Published: September 2019

The wearable electroencephalogram (EEG) dry electrode acquisition system has shown great application prospects in mental state monitoring, the brain–computer interface (BCI), and other fields due to advantages such as being small in volume, light weight, and a ready-to-use facility. This study demonstrates a novel EEG cap with concise structure, easy adjustment size, as well as independently adjustable electrodes. The cap can be rapidly worn and adjusted in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. The dry electrodes on it can be adjusted independently to fit the scalp as quickly as possible. The accuracy of the BCI test employing this device is higher than when employing a headband. The proposed EEG cap makes adjustment easier and the contact impedance of the dry electrodes more uniform.
Active and Reactive Power Joint Balancing for Analyzing Short-Term Voltage Instability Caused by Induction Motor
Authors: Wang Ding , Shen Yangwu , Hu Zhen , Cui Ting , Yuan Xiaoming
Published: September 2019

Short-term voltage instability has a sensational effect once it occurs with massive loss of load, possibly area instability, and voltage collapse. This paper analyzes the short-term voltage instability caused by induction motor from the viewpoint of active and reactive power joint balancing. The analysis method is based on (1) the reactive power balancing between system supply and induction motor demand, and (2) the active power balancing between air-gap power and mechanical power, which is expressed by the region of rotor acceleration and deceleration in the Q-V plane. With the region of rotor acceleration and deceleration in the Q-V plane and the reactive power balancing, the movement direction of the operating point can be visually observed in the Q-V plane, thereby achieving a clear comprehension of physical properties behind the short-term voltage instability phenomenon. Furthermore, the instability mechanisms of two kinds of grid-connected induction motor operation conditions after a large disturbance are discussed to explain the basic theory of the analysis method and to provide examples of its application. Time-domain simulations are presented for a single-load infinite-bus system to validate the analyses.
Bathymetry and Geomorphology of Shelikof Strait and the Western Gulf of Alaska
Authors: Zimmermann Mark , Prescott Megan M. , Haeussler Peter J.
Published: September 2019

We defined the bathymetry of Shelikof Strait and the western Gulf of Alaska (WGOA) from the edges of the land masses down to about 7000 m deep in the Aleutian Trench. This map was produced by combining soundings from historical National Ocean Service (NOS) smooth sheets (2.7 million soundings); shallow multibeam and LIDAR (light detection and ranging) data sets from the NOS and others (subsampled to 2.6 million soundings); and deep multibeam (subsampled to 3.3 million soundings), single-beam, and underway files from fisheries research cruises (9.1 million soundings). These legacy smooth sheet data, some over a century old, were the best descriptor of much of the shallower and inshore areas, but they are superseded by the newer multibeam and LIDAR, where available. Much of the offshore area is only mapped by non-hydrographic single-beam and underway files. We combined these disparate data sets by proofing them against their source files, where possible, in an attempt to preserve seafloor features for research purposes. We also attempted to minimize bathymetric data errors so that they would not create artificial seafloor features that might impact such analyses. The main result of the bathymetry compilation is that we observe abundant features related to glaciation of the shelf of Alaska during the Last Glacial Maximum including abundant end moraines, some medial moraines, glacial lineations, eskers, iceberg ploughmarks, and two types of pockmarks. We developed an integrated onshore–offshore geomorphic map of the region that includes glacial flow directions, moraines, and iceberg ploughmarks to better define the form and flow of former ice masses.
Relative Effect of Location Alternatives on Urban Hydrology. The Case of Greater Port-Harcourt Watershed, Niger Delta
Authors: Dan-Jumbo Nimi G. , Metzger Marc
Published: September 2019

Globally, cities in developing countries are urbanising at alarming rates, and a major concern to hydrologists and planners are the options that affect the hydrologic functioning of watersheds. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) has been recognised as a key sustainable development tool for mitigating the adverse impacts of planned developments, however, research has shown that planned developments can affect people and the environment significantly due to urban flooding that arises from increased paved surfaces. Flooding is a major sustainable development issue, which often result from increased paved surfaces and decreased interception losses due to urbanisation and deforestation respectively. To date, several environmental assessment studies have advanced the concept of alternatives, yet, only a small number of hydrologic studies have discussed how the location of paved surface could influence catchment runoff. Specifically, research exploring the effects of location alternative in EIAs on urban hydrology is very rare. The Greater Port-Harcourt City (GPH) development established to meet the growth needs in Port-Harcourt city (in the Niger Delta) is a compelling example. The aim of this research is to examine the relative effect of EIA alternatives in three different locations on urban hydrology. The Hydrologic Engineering Centre’s hydrologic modelling system (HEC-HMS) hydrodynamic model was used to generate data for comparing runoff in three different basins. HEC-HMS software combine models that estimate: Loss, transformation, base flow and channel routing. Results reveal that developments with the same spatial extent had different effects on the hydrology of the basins and sub-basins in the area. Findings in this study suggest that basin size rather than location of the paved surface was the main factor influencing the hydrology of the watershed.
TCAD Simulation and Analysis of Selective Buried Oxide MOSFET Dynamic Power
Authors: Mahmoud Rana , Madathumpadical Narayanan , Al-Nashash Hasan
Published: September 2019

Low power consumption has become one of the major requirements for most microelectronic devices and systems. Increasing power dissipation may lead to decreasing system efficiency and lifetime. The BULK metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) has relatively high power dissipation and low frequency response due to its internal capacitances. Although the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) MOSFET was introduced to resolve these limitations, other challenges were introduced including the kink effect in the current-voltage characteristics. The selective buried oxide (SELBOX) MOSFET was then suggested to resolve the problem of the kink effect. The authors have previously investigated and reported the characteristics of the SELBOX structure in terms of kink effect, frequency, thermal and static power characteristics. In this paper, we continue our investigation by presenting the dynamic power characteristics of the SELBOX structure and compare that with the BULK and SOI structures. The simulated fabrication of the three devices was conducted using Silvaco TCAD tools in 90 nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Simulation results show that the average dynamic power dissipation of the CMOS BULK, SOI and SELBOX are compatible at high frequencies with approximately 54.5 µW. At low frequencies, the SOI and SELBOX showed comparable dynamic power dissipation but with lower values than the BULK structure. The difference in power dissipation between the SELBOX and BULK is in the order of nano watts. This power difference becomes significant at the chip level. For instance, at 1 MHz, SOI and SELBOX exhibit an average dynamic power consumption of 0.0026 µW less than that of the BULK structure. This value cannot be ignored when a chip operates using thousands or millions of SOI or SELBOX MOSFETs.
Algebraic Algorithms for Even Circuits in Graphs
Authors: Hà Huy Tài , Morey Susan
Published: September 2019

We present an algebraic algorithm to detect the existence of and to list all indecomposable even circuits in a given graph. We also discuss an application of our work to the study of directed cycles in digraphs.
Gallstone Ileus: Management and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Jakubauskas Matas , Luksaite Raminta , Sileikis Audrius , Strupas Kestutis , Poskus Tomas
Published: September 2019

Background: Gallstone or biliary ileus is a late complication of gallstone disease. It accounts for 1%–4% of all bowel obstructions and is more common in elderly patients. The preferred treatment option is to mechanically remove the impacted stones. It is done surgically using open or laparoscopic approach and rarely, when stones are impacted in the colon, endoscopically. In this paper we present five consecutive cases of gallstone ileus and describe possible diagnostic and minimally invasive treatment options. Case presentation: During a five-month period a total of five patients were treated for gallstone ileus. All patients were female and from 48 to 87 years of age. Symptoms were not specific and common for all small bowel obstructions. Upon admission the patients also had unspecific laboratory findings—neutrophilic leukocytosis and various C-reactive protein concentrations, ranging from 8 to 347 mg/L. According to the hospital protocol, all patients initially underwent an abdominal ultrasound, which was inconclusive, and therefore every patient additionally had a CT scan with intravenous contrast. After these two diagnostic modalities one patient still did not have the definitive gallstone ileus diagnosis, as the ectopic stone was not visible. Four patients in our case series were treated using minimally invasive methods: in one case the stone was removed endoscopically, and laparoscopically in the other three. Treatment outcomes were good in four cases as the patients fully recovered, however one patient suffered a massive cerebral infarction after the operation and passed away. Conclusions: Gallstone ileus is a rare and difficult-to-diagnose condition. Management of these patients in every case should be individualized, as there are many options, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. We show that minimally invasive treatment such as colonoscopy or laparoscopy is possible in these cases.
An Overview of the Cardiorespiratory Hypothesis and Its Potential Contribution to the Care of Neurodegenerative Disease in Africa
Authors: Agbangla Nounagnon Frutueux , Fraser Sarah A. , Albinet Cédric T.
Published: September 2019

One hypothesis that could explain the beneficial effects of physical exercise on cognitive function is the cardiorespiratory hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that improved cognitive functioning may be in part a result of the physiological processes that occur after physical exercise such as: Increased cerebral perfusion and regional cerebral blood flow. These processes ensure increased oxygenation and glucose transportation to the brain, which together can improve cognitive function. The objective of this narrative review is to examine the contribution of this hypothesis in the care of African older adults with neurodegenerative conditions (i.e., dementia (Alzheimer’s disease)) or with mild cognitive impairments. Although studies in developed countries have examined people of African descent (i.e., with African Americans), only the limited findings presented in this review reflect how these conditions are also important for the African continent. This review revealed that no studies have examined the effects of cardiorespiratory fitness on neurodegenerative disease in Africa. African nations, like many other developing countries, have an aging population that is growing and will face an increased risk of neurodegenerative declines. It is therefore imperative that new research projects be developed to explore the role of the cardiorespiratory fitness in neurodegenerative disease prevention in African nations.
The Effect of Enteral Nutrition Support Rich in TGF-β in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Childhood
Authors: Agin Mehmet , Yucel Aylin , Gumus Meltem , Yuksekkaya Hasan Ali , Tumgor Gokhan
Published: September 2019

Background and Objective: Malnutrition is a major complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our aim of the study was to examine the effects of Modulen IBD supplementation, which was administered to IBD patients without limiting their daily diet in addition to medical treatment, on the clinical, laboratory, anthropometric values, and disease activities of these patients. Materials and Methods: Seventy three children with IBD were evaluated retrospectively. The cases were classified as those who had Crohn disease receiving (CD-M; n = 16) or not receiving Modulen IBD (CD; n = 19) and those who had ulcerative colitis receiving (UC-M; n = 13) or not receiving Modulen IBD (UC; n = 25). Disease activities, laboratory values, remission rates, and anthropometric measurements of the groups were compared. In addition to IBD treatment, Modulen IBD in which half of the daily calorie requirement was provided was given for eight weeks. Results: In the third month of treatment, 14 (88%) patients were in remission in CD-M group and eight (42%) patients were in remission in CD group. The height and weight z scores, which were low at the time of diagnosis, improved in the first week in CD-M group. Inflammatory parameters (UC) were significantly lower in the UC-M group compared to the UC group in first and third months. In the third month, eight (62%) patients in the UC-M group and four (16%) in the UC group were remitted clinically and in terms of laboratory values. Conclusions: TGF-β-rich enteral nutrition support in children with IBD is an easy, effective, and reliable approach. It was shown that TGF-β-rich enteral nutritional supplementation enabled the disease to enter the remission earlier, and contributed to the early recovery of weight and height scores.
Comparison of X-Ray Imaging and Computed Tomography Scan in the Evaluation of Knee Trauma
Authors: Avci Mustafa , Kozaci Nalan
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the accuracy of X-ray (XR) imaging according to computed tomography (CT) scanning in the diagnosis of knee bone fractures, and in the determination of fracture characteristics, and to identify CT scan indications in patients with knee trauma. Materials and methods: The patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) due to knee trauma between January 2017 and December 2018 and who underwent XR imaging and CT scans were included in the study. XR images were reinterpreted by an emergency physician. The official reports, which had been interpreted by a radiologist in the hospital automation system for CT images, were considered valid. Results: Five hundred and forty-eight patients were included in the study. Of the patients, 200 (36.5%) had fractures in XR imaging and 208 (38.0%) had fractures in CT scans. Compared to CT scanning, XR imaging was found to have 89% sensitivity, 95% specificity, 92% positive predictive value, and 92% negative predictive value in identifying the fracture. The sensitivity of XR imaging in identifying growth plate fracture, angulation, stepping off, and extension of the fracture into the joint space was determined as 78% and less. According to the kappa value, there was determined a perfect concordance between the XR imaging and CT scans in angulation, stepping off, and extension of the fracture into the joint space. This concordance was moderate in growth plate fractures. Conclusions: XR imaging has a low sensitivity in identifying knee fractures. There is a moderate concordance between XR imaging and CT scanning in identifying growth plate fractures. Therefore, CT scanning should be performed in patients whose fracture type and fracture characteristics are not able to be determined exactly with XR imaging in knee injury.
Characterization of the Initial Fouling Layer on the Membrane Surface in a Membrane Bioreactor: Effects of Permeation Drag
Authors: Wang Shengli , Lu Xin , Zhang Lanhe , Guo Jingbo , Zhang Haifeng
Published: September 2019

In this study, the properties of the initial fouling layer on the membrane surface of a bioreactor were investigated under different operating modes (with or without permeate flux) to improve the understanding of the effect of permeation drag on the formation of the initial fouling layer. It was found that protein was the major component in the two types of initial fouling layers, and that the permeation drag enhanced the tryptophan protein-like substances. The attraction of the initial foulants to the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane was ascribed to the high zeta potential and electron donor component (γ−) of the membrane. Thermodynamic analyses showed that the permeation drag-induced fouling layer possessed high hydrophobicity and low γ−. Due to permeation drag, a portion of the foulants overcame an energy barrier before they contacted the membrane surface, which itself possessed a higher fouling propensity. A declining trend of the cohesive strength among the foulants was found with the increasing development of both fouling layers.
Orientation Independent and Dependent Subgrain Growth during Iso-Thermal Annealing of High-Purity and Commercial Purity Aluminium
Authors: Bunkholt Sindre , Nes Erik , Marthinsen Knut
Published: September 2019

The orientation dependence on recovery has been studied in cold-rolled and annealed polycrystalline high-purity aluminium (99.99 wt%), binary Al-0.25Mn and commercial purity aluminium. The growth mechanisms were found to be independent of the alloy system and the microchemistry only influences the coarsening kinetics. Orientation-dependent subgrain growth, mainly studied in high-purity aluminium and measured in lamellar bands of uniform orientation, occurs in three distinct ways, depending of the size of the local orientation gradients. Following the evolution in average subgrain size and boundary misorientation by detailed electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) characterization during annealing, it was found that the rate of subgrain growth in Cube- and Goss-oriented grains were faster than in the typical deformation texture components, particularly after an incubation time when discontinuous subgrain growth occurs. In commercial purity aluminium, general orientation-independent subgrain growth is faster than the orientation-dependent growth because more growth occurs in regions near high-angle grain boundaries separating differently oriented lamellar bands. It appears as if subgrains misoriented by more than 3.5° have a growth advantage over less misoriented subgrains, typically in the interior of lamellar bands. While the average boundary misorientations are decreasing, the individual boundary misorientations are increasing.
Steroidomics for the Prevention, Assessment, and Management of Cancers: A Systematic Review and Functional Analysis
Authors: Anh Nguyen Hoang , Long Nguyen Phuoc , Kim Sun Jo , Min Jung Eun , Yoon Sang Jun , Kim Hyung Min , Yang Eugine , Hwang Eun Sook , Park Jeong Hill , Hong Soon-Sun , Kwon Sung Won
Published: September 2019

Steroidomics, an analytical technique for steroid biomarker mining, has received much attention in recent years. This systematic review and functional analysis, following the PRISMA statement, aims to provide a comprehensive review and an appraisal of the developments and fundamental issues in steroid high-throughput analysis, with a focus on cancer research. We also discuss potential pitfalls and proposed recommendations for steroidomics-based clinical research. Forty-five studies met our inclusion criteria, with a focus on 12 types of cancer. Most studies focused on cancer risk prediction, followed by diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring. Prostate cancer was the most frequently studied cancer. Estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone, and cortisol were mostly reported and altered in at least four types of cancer. Estrogen and estrogen metabolites were highly reported to associate with women-related cancers. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that steroidogenesis; androgen and estrogen metabolism; and androstenedione metabolism were significantly altered in cancers. Our findings indicated that estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone, cortisol, and estrogen metabolites, among others, could be considered oncosteroids. Despite noble achievements, significant shortcomings among the investigated studies were small sample sizes, cross-sectional designs, potential confounding factors, and problematic statistical approaches. More efforts are required to establish standardized procedures regarding study design, analytical procedures, and statistical inference.
Recovery of Metals from Waste Lithium Ion Battery Leachates Using Biogenic Hydrogen Sulfide
Authors: Calvert Giles , Kaksonen Anna , Cheng Ka , Van Yken Jonovan , Chang Barbara , Boxall Naomi
Published: September 2019

Lithium ion battery (LIB) waste is increasing globally and contains an abundance of valuable metals that can be recovered for re-use. This study aimed to evaluate the recovery of metals from LIB waste leachate using hydrogen sulfide generated by a consortium of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in a lactate-fed fluidised bed reactor (FBR). The microbial community analysis showed Desulfovibrio as the most abundant genus in a dynamic and diverse bioreactor consortium. During periods of biogenic hydrogen sulfide production, the average dissolved sulfide concentration was 507 mg L−1 and the average volumetric sulfate reduction rate was 278 mg L−1 d−1. Over 99% precipitation efficiency was achieved for Al, Ni, Co, and Cu using biogenic sulfide and NaOH, accounting for 96% of the metal value contained in the LIB waste leachate. The purity indices of the precipitates were highest for Co, being above 0.7 for the precipitate at pH 10. However, the process was not selective for individual metals due to simultaneous precipitation and the complexity of the metal content of the LIB waste. Overall, the process facilitated the production of high value mixed metal precipitates, which could be purified further or used as feedstock for other processes, such as the production of steel.
Advances in Treatment of Brominated Hydrocarbons by Heterogeneous Catalytic Ozonation and Bromate Minimization
Authors: Gounden Asogan N. , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: September 2019

The formation of carcinogenic bromate ions is a constraint when ozone is used for the remediation of water containing brominated organic materials. With its strong oxidizing ability, ozone rapidly transforms bromide in aqueous media to bromate, through a series of reactions involving hydroxyl radicals. Several strategies, such as limiting the ozone concentration, maintaining pH < 6, or the use of ammonia or hydrogen peroxide were explored to minimize bromate generation. However, most of the above strategies had a negative effect on the ozonation efficiency. The advanced oxidation processes, using catalysts together with ozone, have proven to be a promising technology for the degradation of pollutants in wastewater, but very few studies have been conducted to find ways to minimize bromate formation during this approach. The proposed article, therefore, presents a comprehensive review on recent advances in bromate reduction in water by catalytic ozonation and proposes reaction mechanisms associated with the catalytic process. The main aim is to highlight any gaps in the reported studies, thus creating a platform for future research and a quest to find environment friendly and efficacious catalysts for minimizing bromate formation in aqueous media during ozonation of brominated organic compounds.
Integrative Analysis of Terpenoid Profiles and Hormones from Fruits of Red-Flesh Citrus Mutants and Their Wild Types
Authors: Liu Cuihua , He Min , Wang Zhuang , Xu Juan
Published: September 2019

In citrus color mutants, the levels of carotenoid constituents and other secondary metabolites are different in their corresponding wild types. Terpenoids are closely related to coloration, bitterness, and flavor. In this study, terpenoid profiles and hormones in citrus fruits of two red-flesh mutants—Red Anliu orange and Red-flesh Guanxi pummelo—and their corresponding wild types were investigated using GC/MS, HPLC, and LC-MS/MS. Results showed that Red Anliu orange (high in carotenoids) and Anliu orange (low in carotenoids) accumulated low levels of limonoid aglycones but high levels of monoterpenoids; conversely, Red-flesh Guanxi pummelo (high in carotenoids) and Guanxi pummelo (deficient in carotenoids) accumulated high levels of limonoid aglycones but low levels of monoterpenoids. However, isopentenyl diphosphate was present at similar levels. A correlation analysis indicated that jasmonic and salicylic acids might play important roles in regulating terpenoid biosynthesis. Additionally, the similarities of carotenoid and volatile profiles between each mutant and its corresponding wild type were greater than those between the two mutants or the two wild types. The flux balance of terpenoid metabolism in citrus fruit tends toward stability among various citrus genera that have different terpenoid profiles. Bud mutations could influence metabolite profiles of citrus fruit to a limited extent.
Can Skeuomorphic Design Provide a Better Online Banking User Experience for Older Adults?
Authors: Ellis Aaron , Marshall Mark T.
Published: September 2019

With the prevalence of digital technologies and internet connectivity, combined with the reduction in footfall on high streets, banks have taken steps to move most of their customer base online. This has left many older adults behind, trying to keep up with the changes and having to learn to use sometimes complex online banking interfaces. In this work we investigate whether skeuomorphic design can create a more usable online banking system for older adults, compared to the more commonplace flat design. This work took a user-centered approach, beginning with interviews with older adults that were conducted to gather data to be used in the production of prototype user interfaces. Two prototypes were then created: a flat user interface and a skeuomorphic one. We evaluated these interfaces with 15 older adults, gathering a combination of data, including data from the System Usability Scale, observations, and interviews. Results of the experiments showed that our older users preferred the flat prototype to the skeuomorphic one, but raised some potentially useful guidelines for the design of future skeuomorphic user interfaces for older adults. A validation experiment with 17 younger adults (aged 20–25) also showed that the skeuomorphic interface was more usable for older adults than younger ones.
Surface Exposure of PEG and Amines on Biodegradable Nanoparticles as a Strategy to Tune Their Interaction with Protein-Rich Biological Media
Authors: Conte Claudia , Dal Poggetto Giovanni , J. Swartzwelter Benjamin , Esposito Diletta , Ungaro Francesca , Laurienzo Paola , Boraschi Diana , Quaglia Fabiana
Published: September 2019

Nanoparticles (NPs) based on amphiphilic block copolymers of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and biodegradable polyesters are of particular current interest in drug nanodelivery due to their easily manipulated properties. The interaction of these NPs with biological environments is highly influenced by shell features, which drive biological identity after administration. To widen the strategies available for tuning particle surface chemistry, here we developed a panel of amine-bearing PEGylated NPs with a poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) core for the delivery of lipophilic drugs, and investigated the impact of NP modifications on their interaction with abundant circulating proteins (human serum albumin—HSA—and mucin), as well as their transport through biological barriers (artificial mucus—AM, extracellular matrix—ECM). We prepared NPs based on a diamino-terminated PCL (amine-NPs) and its mixture with PEG-PCL copolymers (amine/PEG-NPs) at different PEG molecular weights by nanoprecipitation, as well as corresponding NPs of PEG-PCL (PEG-NPs). The presence of an amine-bearing polymer resulted in NPs with a net positive charge and a zeta potential dependent on the length of PEG in the copolymer. Amine/PEG-NPs had a larger fixed aqueous layer thickness as compared to PEG-NPs, suggesting that PEG conformation is affected by the presence of positive charges. In general, amine-bearing NPs promptly interacted with the dysopsonic protein HSA, due to electrostatic interactions, and lose stability, thereby undergoing time-related aggregation. On the other hand, amine/PEG-NPs interaction with mucin induced switching to a negative surface charge but did not alter the quality of the dispersion. The transport kinetics of NPs through a layer of artificial mucus and tumor extracellular matrix was studied by means of fluorescent NPs based upon FRET. Amine/PEG-NPs did not cross the ECM, but they were promptly transported through the AM, with swifter transport noted at increasing MWs of PEG in the copolymer. Finally, we demonstrated that all the different NP types developed in this study are internalized by human monocytes and, despite the positive charge, they did not induce a measurable inflammatory effect. In conclusion, we showed that the concurrent presence of both PEG and amine groups on NP surface is a promising strategy for directing their interaction with body compartments. While PEG-NPs are confirmed for their capacity to cross ECM-like compartments, amine/PEG-NPs are revealed as a powerful platform to widen the arsenal of nanotools available for overcoming mucus-covered epithelia.
Direct Observation of Structural Deformation Immunity for Understanding Oxygen Plasma Treatment-Enhanced Resistive Switching in HfOx-Based Memristive Devices
Authors: Wang Dong , Yan Shaoan , Chen Qilai , He Qiming , Xiao Yongguang , Tang Minghua , Zheng Xuejun
Published: September 2019

Oxygen ions’ migration is the fundamental resistive switching (RS) mechanism of the binary metal oxides-based memristive devices, and recent studies have found that the RS performance can be enhanced through appropriate oxygen plasma treatment (OPT). However, the lack of experimental evidence observed directly from the microscopic level of materials and applicable understanding of how OPT improves the RS properties will cause significant difficulties in its further application. In this work, we apply scanning probe microscope (SPM)-based techniques to study the OPT-enhanced RS performance in prototypical HfOx based memristive devices through in situ morphology and electrical measurements. It is first found that the structural deformations in HfOx nanofilm induced by migration of oxygen ions and interfacial electrochemical reactions can be recovered by OPT effectively. More importantly, such structural deformations no longer occur after OPT due to the strengthening in lattice structure, which directly illustrates the enhanced quantity of HfOx nanofilm and the nature of enhanced RS properties after OPT. Finally, the underlying mechanisms of OPT-enhanced RS performance are analyzed by the results of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) surface analysis. In the OPT-enhanced HfOx nanofilm, oxygen vacancies in crystalline regions can be remarkably reduced by active oxygen ions’ implantation. The oxygen ions transport will depend considerably on the grain boundaries and OPT-enhanced lattice structure will further guarantee the stability of conductive filaments, both of which ensure the uniformity and repeatability in RS processes. This study could provide a scientific basis for improving RS performance of oxides-based memristive devices by utilizing OPT.
Biocompatible and Biodegradable Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles with In Vitro Photostable Near-Infrared Emission: Short-Term Fluorescent Markers
Authors: Khalid Asma , Norello Romina , N. Abraham Amanda , Tetienne Jean-Philippe , J. Karle Timothy , W. C. Lui Edward , Xia Kenong , A. Tran Phong , J. O’Connor Andrea , G. Mann Bruce , de Boer Richard , He Yanling , Man Ching Ng Alan , B. Djurisic Aleksandra , Shukla Ravi , Tomljenovic-Hanic Snjezana
Published: September 2019

Imaging of biological matter by using fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) is becoming a widespread method for in vitro imaging. However, currently there is no fluorescent NP that satisfies all necessary criteria for short-term in vivo imaging: biocompatibility, biodegradability, photostability, suitable wavelengths of absorbance and fluorescence that differ from tissue auto-fluorescence, and near infrared (NIR) emission. In this paper, we report on the photoluminescent properties of magnesium oxide (MgO) NPs that meet all these criteria. The optical defects, attributed to vanadium and chromium ion substitutional defects, emitting in the NIR, are observed at room temperature in NPs of commercial and in-house ball-milled MgO nanoparticles, respectively. As such, the NPs have been successfully integrated into cultured cells and photostable bright in vitro emission from NPs was recorded and analyzed. We expect that numerous biotechnological and medical applications will emerge as this nanomaterial satisfies all criteria for short-term in vivo imaging.
Vascular Leak and Hypercytokinemia Associated with Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus Infection in Mice
Authors: Westover Jonna B. , Hickerson Brady T. , Van Wettere Arnaud J. , Hurst Brett L. , Kurz Jacqueline P. , Dagley Ashley , Wülfroth Petra , Komeno Takashi , Furuta Yousuke , Steiner Thomas , Gowen Brian B.
Published: September 2019

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) endemic to China, South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Here we characterize the pathogenesis and natural history of disease in IFNAR-/- mice challenged with the HB29 strain of SFTS virus (SFTSV) and demonstrate hallmark features of VHF such as vascular leak and high concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines in blood and tissues. Treatment with FX06, a natural plasmin digest product of fibrin in clinical development as a treatment for vascular leak, reduced vascular permeability associated with SFTSV infection but did not significantly improve survival outcome. Further studies are needed to assess the role of vascular compromise in the SFTS disease process modeled in IFNAR-/- mice.
Genome-Wide Identification, Evolution, and Expression Analysis of TPS and TPP Gene Families in Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Wang Song , Ouyang Kai , Wang Kai
Published: September 2019

Trehalose biosynthesis enzyme homologues in plants contain two families, trehalose-6-phosphate synthases (TPSs) and trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatases (TPPs). Both families participate in trehalose synthesis and a variety of stress-resistance processes. Here, nine BdTPS and ten BdTPP genes were identified based on the Brachypodium distachyon genome, and all genes were classified into three classes. The Class I and Class II members differed substantially in gene structures, conserved motifs, and protein sequence identities, implying varied gene functions. Gene duplication analysis showed that one BdTPS gene pair and four BdTPP gene pairs are formed by duplication events. The value of Ka/Ks (non-synonymous/synonymous) was less than 1, suggesting purifying selection in these gene families. The cis-elements and gene interaction network prediction showed that many family members may be involved in stress responses. The quantitative real-time reverse transcription (qRT-PCR) results further supported that most BdTPSs responded to at least one stress or abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, whereas over half of BdTPPs were downregulated after stress treatment, implying that BdTPSs play a more important role in stress responses than BdTPPs. This work provides a foundation for the genome-wide identification of the B. distachyon TPS–TPP gene families and a frame for further studies of these gene families in abiotic stress responses.
Devotions in the Ancient Way of Offices: Medieval Domestic Devotion in the Seventeenth Century
Authors: Ellens Jantina
Published: September 2019

Devotions in the Ancient Way of Offices was first published as a Catholic primer for worship between intimates, then reformed for individual Protestant worship, and then reformed again for Protestant worship between intimates. Each adaptation engages the so-called “ancient” quality of its offices, primarily medieval, as authorization for the kinds of domestic worship it promotes. I examine how the author and adapters of the text authorize their creative and adaptive devotional texts through a nostalgic interpretation of medieval worship practices as uniquely representative of the worship practices of the early church. While confessional debates had polarized discussions about the lineage of the church, this text represents a trend in seventeenth-century Protestant devotional primers attempting to reconcile spiritual divisions by re-introducing Protestant believers to pre-Reformation practices of domestic devotion.
Online Multi-Objective Model-Independent Adaptive Tracking Mechanism for Dynamical Systems
Authors: Abouheaf Mohammed , Gueaieb Wail , Spinello Davide
Published: September 2019

The optimal tracking problem is addressed in the robotics literature by using a variety of robust and adaptive control approaches. However, these schemes are associated with implementation limitations such as applicability in uncertain dynamical environments with complete or partial model-based control structures, complexity and integrity in discrete-time environments, and scalability in complex coupled dynamical systems. An online adaptive learning mechanism is developed to tackle the above limitations and provide a generalized solution platform for a class of tracking control problems. This scheme minimizes the tracking errors and optimizes the overall dynamical behavior using simultaneous linear feedback control strategies. Reinforcement learning approaches based on value iteration processes are adopted to solve the underlying Bellman optimality equations. The resulting control strategies are updated in real time in an interactive manner without requiring any information about the dynamics of the underlying systems. Means of adaptive critics are employed to approximate the optimal solving value functions and the associated control strategies in real time. The proposed adaptive tracking mechanism is illustrated in simulation to control a flexible wing aircraft under uncertain aerodynamic learning environment.
The origins of in vivo functional diagnosis of hemomicrocirculation in periodontal tissues in normal and pathological conditions in domestic dentistry
Authors: Iordanishvili A. K.
Published: September 2019

Purpose – to present the origins of in vivo functional diagnosis of hemomicrocirculation in periodontal tissues in normal and pathological conditions in domestic dentistry.

Materials and methods: the material of the study was archival and reporting materials of research works of scientists-dentists, which deals with the functioning of periodontal tissues. These materials are used as a source of primary information. Analytical, medical and statistical research methods were used to study them.

Results: information on the development and ﬁrst application in dental practice of methods of in vivo microscopy and microphotography of gums with the clarity that allowed the use of these methods for many years, including modern dentistry. These methods were used for experimental studies in various animals (Guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs) and in clinical practice, in norm and under various extreme eﬀects of General and local character.

Conclusion: the role of domestic scientists and dentists, in particular, the doctor of medical Sciences associate Professor M. K. Gacina, the development of functional methods of research of periodontal: of capillaroscopy and capillaroscopy. The importance of these methods of functional diagnosis of periodontal disease in clinical periodontics at the present stage, including periodontal disease in endocrine pathology, endodontal lesions and tissue pathology around dental implants.