bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bimetallic Pt-Co Catalysts for the Liquid-Phase WGS
Authors: Reynoso Alberto José , Ayastuy Jose Luis , Iriarte-Velasco Unai , Gutiérrez-Ortiz Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2020

Bimetallic Pt-Co catalysts derived from cobalt aluminate spinel were investigated in the liquid-phase water–gas shift (WGS) reaction and CO hydrogenation. Liquid-phase WGS is a key reaction in the aqueous-phase reforming (APR) of polyols; thus, WGS activity is essential to formulate good APR catalysts. In this work, catalysts with different Pt/Co molar ratios were synthesized together with a reference Pt/alumina. All the synthesized catalysts were characterized by various techniques in order to gain knowledge on their structural and surface characteristics. WGS activity was tested with a feedstream of CO/H2O = 1/15 (space-time of 76.8 kgcat·s/molCO), isothermal operation at 260 °C and 50 bar, for 10 TOS. Bimetallic Pt-Co catalysts showed improved activity in liquid-phase WGS in comparison to bare Co or Pt catalysts, which was ascribed to the synergistic effect. Despite being subjected to an increased hydrogen concentration in the feedstream (H2/CO between 0 and 12/3), these catalysts maintained a preferential selectivity towards WGS activity. In addition, the effect of temperature (220–260 °C) and pressure (25–50 bar) was investigated over a catalyst with 0.3Pt/CoAl. CO conversion and CO2 yield were more sensitive to temperature, while a higher pressure favored methane production. The measured activation energy in the 220–260 °C temperature range was 51.5 kJ/mol.
Study of Curing Characteristics of Cellulose Nanofiber-Filled Epoxy Nanocomposites
Authors: Pandurangan Mohan Turup , Kanny Krishnan
Published: July 2020

In recent years, much attention was focused on developing green materials and fillers for polymer composites. This work is about the development of such green nanofiller for reinforcement in epoxy polymer matrix. A cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-filled epoxy polymer nanocomposites was prepared in this work. The effect of CNF on curing, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties of epoxy polymer is evaluated in this study. CNF were extracted from banana fiber using acid hydrolysis method and then filled in epoxy polymer at various concentration (0–5 wt.%) to form CNF-filled epoxy nanocomposites. The structure and morphology of the CNF-filled epoxy nanocomposites were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Curing studies shows CNF particles acts as a catalytic curing agent with increased cross-link density. This catalytic effect of CNF particles has positively affected tensile, thermal (thermogravimetry analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis) and water barrier properties. Water uptake test of nanocomposites was studied to understand the barrier properties. Overall result also shows that the CNF can be a potential green nanofiller for thermoset epoxy polymer with promising applications ahead.
Synthesis of Lanthanide-Functionalized Carbon Quantum Dots for Chemical Sensing and Photocatalytic Application
Authors: Zou Fu-Ran , Wang Sai-Nan , Wang Fang-Fang , Liu Dan , Li Ying
Published: July 2020

Tunable photoluminescent-functionalized carbon quantum dots CQDs@Ln (TFA)3 (Ln = Eu, Tb; TFA: trifluoroacetylacetone) were designed and synthesized by introducing lanthanide complexes into the modified CQDs surface through the carboxyl group. The as-prepared CQDs@Ln (TFA)3 emit strong blue–green light with the peak at 435 nm and simultaneously show the characteristic emission of Ln3+ under irradiation of 365 nm light in aqueous solution. Moreover, these functionalized CQDs exhibit excellent photoluminescence properties. In addition, a white luminescent solution CQDs@Eu/Tb (TFA)3 was obtained by adjusting the ratio of Eu3+/Tb3+ and the excitation wavelengths. Moreover, CQDs@Tb (TFA)3 can be utilized as a fluorescent probe for the sensitive and selective detection of MnO4− without interference from other ions in aqueous solution. These results provide the meaningful data for the multicomponent assembly and the photoluminescent-functionalized materials based on the modified CQDs and lanthanide, which can be expected to have potential application in photocatalytic or sensors.
The Impact of Routine Skin Care on the Quality of Life
Authors: Zhang Lixia , Adique Aldhel , Sarkar Pradipta , Shenai Vinay , Sampath Murali , Lai Ricky , Qi Joanna , Wang Macia , Farage Miranda A.
Published: July 2020

Importance: Consumers purchase a wide variety of consumer products and come into contact with these products on a daily basis. Manufacturers invest deeply in developing new products or improving existing products, in order to produce a positive impact on the lives of consumers. Objective: The goal of this study was to determine the impact of over-the-counter skin care products on the quality of life (QoL) of female consumers. Design and Measures: A QoL instrument developed for consumer products (the Farage QoL with an added Skin Care Module) was used to assess the impact of a 28-day facial skin care regimen using commercially available products formulated to improve elasticity, firmness and hydration, and to correct age- and sun-related skin color. Responses were collected prior to study commencement, at completion of the product usage stage, and after a period of withdrawal of the product with reversion to a basic skin care regimen. Participants: Two main study groups from Australia included 89 new mothers, i.e., women with children 2 years and under (mean age ± SD was 34 ± 4.8), and a national representative sample of 91 women (45 ± 12). An additional test group from China consisted of 40 younger cosmetic users (25 ± 4.3). The Skin Care Module was not included in the instrument for the third group. Results: After 28-days of usage, both test groups in the main study showed significant improvement in three of five items in the Skin Care Module (improved feelings of empowerment, happiness and self-esteem). Improvements persisted after 2 weeks of product withdrawal. In the main QoL instrument, the New Mothers group showed significant improvement in the Well-Being domain, driven by improvements in the Self-Image and Self Competence subdomains. The National Representative group showed improvements in the Energy and Vitality domain, driven by improvements in the Personal Pleasure, Physical State and Routine Activity subdomains. The additional group in the China study showed results similar to the New Mothers group. Conclusions and Relevance: A quality and efficacious skin care regimen can have a positive impact on the QoL of consumers. Differences in responses of the test groups were likely related to differences in the mean age and differences in time available to look after themselves.
Condition-Monitoring System for Identification and Representation of the Capability Diagram Limits for Multiple Synchronous Generators in a Hydro Power-Plant
Authors: Glavan Boris , Hanić Zlatko , Kovačić Marinko , Vražić Mario
Published: July 2020

This paper presents an experience in the design and implementation of the condition-monitoring system for the synchronous generators whose primary purpose is to record data for the identification of the capability limits of the P–Q diagram of three generators in hydro power-plant. Paper presents details about the monitoring system, the underlying theory of the identification of the synchronous generator model with a focus on the calculation of the capability limits in the P–Q diagram. Furthermore, a computationally efficient method for the representation of capability limits suitable for the implementation within the industrial automation and control system of the power-plant is described in detail. Finally, the capability diagrams for three generators were implemented in the power-plant supervisory control and data acquisition system (SCADA) system.
Clusters of Lactobacillus Strains from Vegetal Origins Are Associated with Beneficial Functions: Experimental Data and Statistical Interpretations
Authors: Barache Nacim , Belguesmia Yanath , Ladjouzi Rabia , Bendali Farida , Drider Djamel
Published: July 2020

Nine strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and one strain of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei that were recently isolated from prickly pears, fresh figs and blackberries, which are traditionally and largely consumed fruits in Kabylia (north of Algeria), were studied here for their antagonism and antioxidant properties as well as for production of exopolysaccharides. With respect to their inhibitory properties, these strains were tested against three food representative pathogens including Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Staphylococcus aureus 2S6 and Listeria monocytogenes 162. The antagonism of these pathogens was attributable to lactic acid production, present in the cell free supernatant, at concentrations ranging from 9 to 16.74 g/L. The anti-adhesive properties observed on polystyrene or eukaryotic Caco-2 cells were exerted in a strain dependent-manner. Indeed, the scores obtained ranged from 27% to 75% for S. aureus 2S6, 54% to 95% for L. monocytogenes 162, and 50% to 97% for E. coli ATCC 8739. The co-aggregation of these Lactobacillus strains with the aforementioned target bacteria appeared to be exerted in a strain-dependent manner, with noticeably the upmost rate for Lb. paracasei FB1 on S. aureus 2S6. Interestingly, these novel Lactobacillus strains were able to produce a large amount (315.55 to 483.22 mg/L) of exopolysaccharides, and showed a significant scavenging activity on the 2,2-di-phényl-2-picrylhydrazyle (DPPH) synthetic free radical with rates of 51% to 56%. Of note, the highest antioxidant activity was observed for Lb. paracasei FB1 using the culture supernatants, intact cells or the intracellular extract. The statistical analysis of these data using the principal component analysis (ACP) enabled us to establish three distinct clusters with potential applications as bioprotective and/or probiotic agents, following further evaluation.
Use of Essential Oils to Increase the Safety and the Quality of Marinated Pork Loin
Authors: Siroli Lorenzo , Baldi Giulia , Soglia Francesca , Bukvicki Danka , Patrignani Francesca , Petracci Massimiliano , Lanciotti Rosalba
Published: July 2020

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of the addition of an oil/beer/lemon marinade solution with or without the inclusion of oregano, rosemary and juniper essential oils on the quality, the technological properties as well as the shelf-life and safety of vacuum-packed pork loin meat. The results obtained suggested that, aside from the addition of essential oils, the marination process allowed to reduce meat pH, thus improving its water holding capacity. Instrumental and sensorial tests showed that the marination also enhanced the tenderness of meat samples, with those marinated with essential oils being the most positively perceived by the panelists. In addition, microbiological data indicated that the marinated samples showed a lower microbial load of the main spoiling microorganisms compared to the control samples, from the 6th to the 13th day of storage, regardless of the addition of essential oils. Marination also allowed to inhibit the pathogens Salmonella enteritidis, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, thus increasing the microbiological safety of the product. Overall outcomes suggest that the oil/beer/lemon marinade solution added with essential oils might represent a promising strategy to improve both qualitative and sensory characteristics as well as the safety of meat products.
Combined Effect of Dipping in Oxalic or in Citric Acid and Low O2 Modified Atmosphere, to Preserve the Quality of Fresh-Cut Lettuce during Storage
Authors: Pace Bernardo , Capotorto Imperatrice , Palumbo Michela , Pelosi Sergio , Cefola Maria
Published: July 2020

Leaf edge browning is the main factor affecting fresh-cut lettuce marketability. Dipping in organic acids as well as the low O2 modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), can be used as anti-browning technologies. In the present research paper, the proper oxalic acid (OA) concentration, able to reduce respiration rate of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce, and the suitable packaging materials aimed to maintaining a low O2 during storage, were selected. Moreover, the combined effect of dipping (in OA or in citric acid) and packaging in low O2 was investigated during the storage of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce for 14 days. Results showed a significant effect of 5 mM OA on respiration rate delay. In addition, polypropylene/polyamide (PP/PA) was select as the most suitable packaging material to be used in low O2 MAP. Combining OA dipping with low O2 MAP using PP/PA as material, resulted able to reduce leaf edge browning, respiration rate, weight loss and electrolyte leakage, preserving the visual quality of fresh-cut lettuce until 8 days at 8 °C.
In Silico and In Vitro Analysis of Multifunctionality of Animal Food-Derived Peptides
Authors: Amigo Lourdes , Martínez-Maqueda Daniel , Hernández-Ledesma Blanca
Published: July 2020

Currently, the associations between oxidative stress, inflammation, hypertension, and metabolic disturbances and non-communicable diseases are very well known. Since these risk factors show a preventable character, the searching of food peptides acting against them has become a promising strategy for the design and development of new multifunctional foods or nutraceuticals. In the present study, an integrated approach combining an in silico study and in vitro assays was used to confirm the multifunctionality of milk and meat protein-derived peptides that were similar to or shared amino acids with previously described opioid peptides. By the in silico analysis, 15 of the 27 assayed peptides were found to exert two or more activities, with Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory, antioxidant, and opioid being the most commonly found. The in vitro study confirmed ACE-inhibitory and antioxidant activities in 15 and 26 of the 27 synthetic peptides, respectively. Four fragments, RYLGYLE, YLGYLE, YFYPEL, and YPWT, also demonstrated the ability to protect Caco-2 and macrophages RAW264.7 cells from the oxidative damage caused by chemicals. The multifunctionality of these peptides makes them promising agents against oxidative stress-associated diseases.
Sensory Acceptability of Dual-Fortified Milled Red and Yellow Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) Dal in Bangladesh
Authors: Podder Rajib , Hassan Al Imam Mahmudul , Jahan Israt , Yunus Fakir Md , Muhit Mohammad , Vandenberg Albert
Published: July 2020

This study evaluated the sensory properties of uncooked and cooked milled lentils that were fortified with varying concentrations of Fe and Zn in the form of NaFeEDTA and ZnSO4.H2O, respectively. Our study was carried out among 196 lentil consumers residing in rural Bangladesh who experience with growing, processing, and marketing lentils. A nine-point hedonic scale was used to rate the appearance, odor, taste, texture and overall acceptability of three uncooked and two cooked lentil (dal) samples made from each of the three milled lentil product types (LPTs), red football, red split and yellow split. Preferences for sensory properties were found to be significantly different among all uncooked lentil samples, but not significantly different for cooked samples, with a few exceptions. This means that the fortification process minimally affects dual-fortified lentil sample (fortified with 16 mg of Fe and 8 mg of Zn per 100 g of lentil), which was compared to another cooked sample (unfortified control), in terms of consumers liking for all four attributes (appearance, odor, taste, and texture).
Effect of Different Reducing Agents on Aromatic Compounds, Antioxidant and Chromatic Properties of Sauvignon Blanc Wine
Authors: Jagatić Korenika Ana-Marija , Biloš Josipa , Kozina Bernard , Tomaz Ivana , Preiner Darko , Jeromel Ana
Published: July 2020

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is widely the most used enological additive with reductive, antiseptic and dissolving properties. According to increasing health concerns and the gradual decrease in total SO2 concentrations allowed in wine, alternative and supplementary agents for preservation are being investigated. For this reason, the current study was focused on the impact of different commercial reductive agents on white wine antioxidant activity and chemical composition. The effect of additives that combine sulfites, ascorbic acid and enological tannins were compared against standard 5% sulfurous acid (H2SO3) during the pre-fermentative treatments of Sauvignon Blanc must (Vitis vinifera L.). The basic parameters of quality, free amino-nitrogen and total polyphenoliccompounds in must were analyzed. Gas chromatography and spectrophotometric methods were used to investigate the overall volatile composition, antioxidant and chromatic parameters in wines. The obtained results undoubtedly pointed out the positive effect of sulfuric acid on the fermentation dynamics. Furthermore, application of combined reducing additives with potassium metabisulfite, L-ascorbic acid, gallotannins and ellagitannins, resulted in a higher antioxidant capacity and increased concentration of aromatic compounds and their odor activity values in Sauvignon Blanc wine.
Understanding Multi-Vehicle Collision Patterns on Freeways—A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Morris Clint , J. Yang Jidong
Published: July 2020

Generating meaningful inferences from crash data is vital to improving highway safety. Classic statistical methods are fundamental to crash data analysis and often regarded for their interpretability. However, given the complexity of crash mechanisms and associated heterogeneity, classic statistical methods, which lack versatility, might not be sufficient for granular crash analysis because of the high dimensional features involved in crash-related data. In contrast, machine learning approaches, which are more flexible in structure and capable of harnessing richer data sources available today, emerges as a suitable alternative. With the aid of new methods for model interpretation, the complex machine learning models, previously considered enigmatic, can be properly interpreted. In this study, two modern machine learning techniques, Linear Discriminate Analysis and eXtreme Gradient Boosting, were explored to classify three major types of multi-vehicle crashes (i.e., rear-end, same-direction sideswipe, and angle) occurred on Interstate 285 in Georgia. The study demonstrated the utility and versatility of modern machine learning methods in the context of crash analysis, particularly in understanding the potential features underlying different crash patterns on freeways.
Diversity of Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Caatinga Biome, Brazil, from the Widespread to the Endemic
Authors: Andrade David Campos , Morais Sirlei Antunes , Marteis Letícia Silva , Gama Renata Antonaci , Freire Renato Cesar de Melo , Rekowski Belgrano Santiago , Ueno Helene Mariko , La Corte Roseli
Published: July 2020

Mosquito fauna in the northeast semiarid region of Brazil, Caatinga biome, are poorly known. Studies on the diversity are scarce and the few surveys available focus on local fauna. In order to understand the ecological pattern of mosquito’s distribution, information available from studies from 2008 to 2015 were gathered. A partitioning framework of the beta diversity, the turnover (βJTU) and nestedness (βJNE) components were used to determine dissimilarity among communities. Eighty-two morphospecies were recorded and 47 of the species were not shared between the areas. The most representative genera were Aedes, Anopheles, Psorophora, Haemagogus, Coquillettidia, and Mansonia, which all include species of medical interest. The communities had high rates of variation, and the mechanism of turnover accounted for the observed diversity pattern. Despite differences in collection methods, the observed dissimilarity may be related to the broad environmental heterogeneity of the biome, the intrinsic relationships of the species with their habitats, and the environmental degradation caused by different types of anthropogenic interference. Considering the mosquito species richness and endemicity, the hypothesis that the Caatinga harbor poor biodiversity is rejected. The spatial variation observed is of particular importance and should be taken into account for the knowledge of Caatinga biodiversity.
Efficacy of Modified Treat-and-Extend Aflibercept Regimen for Macular Edema Due to Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: 1-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Arai Yusuke , Takahashi Hidenori , Inoda Satoru , Sakamoto Shinichi , Tan Xue , Inoue Yuji , Tominaga Satoko , Kawashima Hidetoshi , Yanagi Yasuo
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To assess the efficacy and safety of a modified treat-and-extend (mTAE) regimen of aflibercept for macular edema (ME) due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods: This prospective multicentre intervention study evaluated 50 eyes of 50 patients enrolled from October 2016 to September 2017. The patients received intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections on an mTAE regimen for a total of 12 months. The main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central subfield thickness (CST) at 12 months. Results: The baseline BCVA and CST were 0.33 (0.27) and 488 (171) µm (mean (standard deviation)), respectively. The BCVA and CST were significantly improved at month 12 (0.067 (0.19) LogMAR and 295 (110) µm; both p < 0.0001, paired t-test). The mean number of clinic visits and IVA injections was 6.71 (1.41) and 4.26 (0.71), respectively. The time to first recurrence from the first injection was most frequently 3 months. Conclusion: The mTAE regimen of IVA injections for ME due to BRVO effectively improved BCVA and reduced CST, and thus might be an effective therapy to reduce the number of injections and visits.
Platelet Functions During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. Platelet–Leukocyte Aggregates Analyzed by Flow Cytometry as a Promising Tool to Monitor Platelet Activation
Authors: Mansour Alexandre , Roussel Mikael , Gaussem Pascale , Nédelec-Gac Fabienne , Pontis Adeline , Flécher Erwan , Bachelot-Loza Christilla , Gouin-Thibault Isabelle
Published: July 2020

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an extracorporeal circulation used to manage patients with severe circulatory or respiratory failure. It is associated with both high bleeding and thrombosis risks, mainly as a result of biomaterial/blood interface phenomena, high shear stress, and complex inflammatory response involving the activation of coagulation and complement systems, endothelial cells, leukocytes, and platelets. Besides their critical role in hemostasis, platelets are important players in inflammatory reactions, especially due to their ability to bind and activate leukocytes. Hence, we reviewed studies on platelet function of ECMO patients. Moreover, we addressed the issue of platelet–leukocyte aggregates (PLAs), which is a key step in both platelet and leukocyte activation, and deserves to be investigated in these patients. A reduced expression of GPIb and GPVI was found under ECMO therapy, due to the shedding processes. However, defective platelet aggregation is inconsistently reported and is still not clearly defined. Due to the high susceptibility of PLAs to pre-analytical conditions, defining and strictly adhering to a rigorous laboratory methodology is essential for reliable and reproducible results, especially in the setting of complex inflammatory situations like ECMO. We provide results on sample preparation and flow cytometric whole blood evaluation of circulating PLAs.
Rapid Phenotype-Driven Gene Sequencing with the NeoSeq Panel: A Diagnostic Tool for Critically Ill Newborns with Suspected Genetic Disease
Authors: de Castro María José , González-Vioque Emiliano , Barbosa-Gouveia Sofía , Salguero Enrique , Rite Segundo , López-Suárez Olalla , Pérez-Muñuzuri Alejandro , Couce María-Luz
Published: July 2020

New genomic sequencing techniques have shown considerable promise in the field of neonatology, increasing the diagnostic rate and reducing time to diagnosis. However, several obstacles have hindered the incorporation of this technology into routine clinical practice. We prospectively evaluated the diagnostic rate and diagnostic turnaround time achieved in newborns with suspected genetic diseases using a rapid phenotype-driven gene panel (NeoSeq) containing 1870 genes implicated in congenital malformations and neurological and metabolic disorders of early onset (<2 months of age). Of the 33 newborns recruited, a genomic diagnosis was established for 13 (39.4%) patients (median diagnostic turnaround time, 7.5 days), resulting in clinical management changes in 10 (76.9%) patients. An analysis of 12 previous prospective massive sequencing studies (whole genome (WGS), whole exome (WES), and clinical exome (CES) sequencing) in newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) with suspected genetic disorders revealed a comparable median diagnostic rate (37.2%), but a higher median diagnostic turnaround time (22.3 days) than that obtained with NeoSeq. Our phenotype-driven gene panel, which is specific for genetic diseases in critically ill newborns is an affordable alternative to WGS and WES that offers comparable diagnostic efficacy, supporting its implementation as a first-tier genetic test in NICUs.
Course and Outcome of Erythema Migrans in Pregnant Women
Authors: Maraspin Vera , Lusa Lara , Blejec Tanja , Ružić-Sabljić Eva , Pohar Perme Maja , Strle Franc
Published: July 2020

Information on Lyme borreliosis (LB) during pregnancy is limited. In the present study, the course and outcome of erythema migrans (EM) in 304 pregnant women, diagnosed in the period 1990–2015, was assessed and compared with that in age-matched non-pregnant women. The frequency of unfavorable outcome of pregnancies was also evaluated. The pregnant women reported constitutional symptoms less frequently than the non-pregnant women (22.4% vs. 37.2%, p < 0.001). Pregnant women diagnosed with EM later during pregnancy had a lower probability of reporting constitutional symptoms (odds ratio = 0.97 for 1-week difference in gestation week at diagnosis of EM, 95% CI: 0.94–0.99, p = 0.02). The outcome of pregnancy was unfavorable in 42/304 (13.8%) patients: preterm birth in 22/42 (52.4%), fetal/perinatal death in 10/42 (23.8%), and/or anomalies in 15/42 (35.7%). Several patients had potential explanation(s) for the unfavorable outcome. In conclusion, the course of early LB during pregnancy is milder than in age-matched non-pregnant women. The outcome of pregnancy with the treatment approach used in the present study (i.v. ceftriaxone 2 g once daily for 14 days) is favorable.
Attributable Mortality of Hip Fracture in Older Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Zerah Lorène , Hajage David , Raux Mathieu , Cohen-Bittan Judith , Mézière Anthony , Khiami Frédéric , Manach Yannick Le , Riou Bruno , Boddaert Jacques
Published: July 2020

Hip fracture (HF) in older patients is associated with a high six-month mortality rate. Several clinical conditions may affect outcome, including baseline characteristics, co-existing acute illnesses, perioperative factors, and postoperative complications. Our primary objective was to estimate the respective effect of these four domains on six-month mortality after HF. A retrospective observational study using a monocentric cohort of older patients was conducted. All patients ≥ 70 years old admitted to the emergency department for HF and hospitalized in our perioperative geriatric care unit from June 2009 to September 2018 were included. Among 1015 included patients, five (0.5%) were lost to follow-up, and 1010 were retained in the final analysis (mean age 86 ± 6 years). The six-month mortality rate was 14.8%. The six-month attributable mortality estimates were as follows: baseline characteristics (including age, gender, comorbidities, autonomy, type of fracture): 62.4%; co-existing acute illnesses (including acute events present before surgery that could result from the fracture or cause it): 0% (not significantly associated with six-month mortality); perioperative factors (including blood transfusion and delayed surgery): 12.3%; severe postoperative complications: 11.9%. Baseline characteristics explained less than two-thirds of the six-month mortality after HF. Optimizing patients care by improving management of perioperative factors and thus decreasing postoperative complications, could reduce by a maximum of one quarter of the six-month mortality rate after HF.
3D-Printed Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sanei Seyed Hamid Reza , Popescu Diana
Published: July 2020

Fiber reinforced composites offer exceptional directional mechanical properties, and combining their advantages with the capability of 3D printing has resulted in many innovative research fronts. This review aims to summarize the methods and findings of research conducted on 3D-printed carbon fiber reinforced composites. The review is focused on commercially available printers and filaments, as their results are reproducible and the findings can be applied to functional parts. As the process parameters can be readily changed in preparation of a 3D-printed part, it has been the focus of many studies. In addition to typical composite driving factors such as fiber orientation, fiber volume fraction and stacking sequence, printing parameters such as infill density, infill pattern, nozzle speed, layer thickness, built orientation, nozzle and bed temperatures have shown to influence mechanical properties. Due to the unique advantages of 3D printing, in addition to conventional unidirectional fiber orientation, concentric fiber rings have been used to optimize the mechanical performance of a part. This review surveys the literature in 3D printing of chopped and continuous carbon fiber composites to provide a reference for the state-of-the-art efforts, existing limitations and new research frontiers.
Factors that Affect Network Formation in Carbon Nanotube Composites and their Resultant Electrical Properties
Authors: Watt Morgan R. , Gerhardt Rosario A.
Published: July 2020

This review paper explores the formation of carbon nanotube (CNT) polymer composites as a function of material and processing parameters. The effect of different polymer systems, increasing multiwall CNT content, modification of CNTs, processing conditions, and aspect ratio are discussed in detail for multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) composites along with some examples for SWCNT composites. All of these factors influence the microstructure and how the network of CNTs forms within it. Often, researchers choose to modify the CNTs to aid in their distribution; however, this may result in a reduction or increase in conductivity depending on many factors. The electrical properties are directly affected by changes in the CNT network and how the material has been processed. As soon as the network forms, percolation occurs and the conductivity increases. In order to understand how to control the properties of CNT composites, all material characteristics and processing conditions must be taken into account.
On-Line Multi-Class Segmentation of Side-Scan Sonar Imagery Using an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Burguera Antoni , Bonin-Font Francisco
Published: July 2020

This paper proposes a method to perform on-line multi-class segmentation of Side-Scan Sonar acoustic images, thus being able to build a semantic map of the sea bottom usable to search loop candidates in a SLAM context. The proposal follows three main steps. First, the sonar data is pre-processed by means of acoustics based models. Second, the data is segmented thanks to a lightweight Convolutional Neural Network which is fed with acoustic swaths gathered within a temporal window. Third, the segmented swaths are fused into a consistent segmented image. The experiments, performed with real data gathered in coastal areas of Mallorca (Spain), explore all the possible configurations and show the validity of our proposal both in terms of segmentation quality, with per-class precisions and recalls surpassing the 90%, and in terms of computational speed, requiring less than a 7% of CPU time on a standard laptop computer. The fully documented source code, and some trained models and datasets are provided as part of this study.
Do Profitable Banks Make a Positive Contribution to the Economy?
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Bird Ron
Published: July 2020

A number of studies have investigated the relationship between financial sector development and economic growth; however, the impact of bank profitability on economic growth is still unclear. We investigate the link between bank profitability and economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region over the period 2004–2014. Using the system GMM estimator, our findings suggest that a profitable banking sector is a prerequisite for economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region and that the impact of bank profitability on economic growth is more prominent in small banking sectors. Perhaps surprisingly, we found that the bank size has a negative impact on GDP growth, with the influence of bank profitability on economic growth reducing as the size of the banking sector increases. Our results also show that the impact of profitability on economic growth is much larger in developed economies compared to small emerging and large emerging economies.
The Global Search for Liquid Water on Mars from Orbit: Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Orosei Roberto , Ding Chunyu , Fa Wenzhe , Giannopoulos Antonios , Hérique Alain , Kofman Wlodek , Lauro Sebastian E. , Li Chunlai , Pettinelli Elena , Su Yan , Xing Shuguo , Xu Yi
Published: July 2020

Due to its significance in astrobiology, assessing the amount and state of liquid water present on Mars today has become one of the drivers of its exploration. Subglacial water was identified by the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding (MARSIS) aboard the European Space Agency spacecraft Mars Express through the analysis of echoes, coming from a depth of about 1.5 km, which were stronger than surface echoes. The cause of this anomalous characteristic is the high relative permittivity of water-bearing materials, resulting in a high reflection coefficient. A determining factor in the occurrence of such strong echoes is the low attenuation of the MARSIS radar pulse in cold water ice, the main constituent of the Martian polar caps. The present analysis clarifies that the conditions causing exceptionally strong subsurface echoes occur solely in the Martian polar caps, and that the detection of subsurface water under a predominantly rocky surface layer using radar sounding will require thorough electromagnetic modeling, complicated by the lack of knowledge of many subsurface physical parameters. Higher-frequency radar sounders such as SHARAD cannot penetrate deep enough to detect basal echoes over the thickest part of the polar caps. Alternative methods such as rover-borne Ground Penetrating Radar and time-domain electromagnetic sounding are not capable of providing global coverage. MARSIS observations over the Martian polar caps have been limited by the need to downlink data before on-board processing, but their number will increase in coming years. The Chinese mission to Mars that is to be launched in 2020, Tianwen-1, will carry a subsurface sounding radar operating at frequencies that are close to those of MARSIS, and the expected signal-to-noise ratio of subsurface detection will likely be sufficient for identifying anomalously bright subsurface reflectors. The search for subsurface water through radar sounding is thus far from being concluded.
The Abelian Kernel of an Inverse Semigroup
Authors: Ballester-Bolinches A. , Pérez-Calabuig V.
Published: July 2020

The problem of computing the abelian kernel of a finite semigroup was first solved by Delgado describing an algorithm that decides whether a given element of a finite semigroup S belongs to the abelian kernel. Steinberg extended the result for any variety of abelian groups with decidable membership. In this paper, we used a completely different approach to complete these results by giving an exact description of the abelian kernel of an inverse semigroup. An abelian group that gives this abelian kernel was also constructed.
Briarenols Q–T: Briaranes from A Cultured Octocoral Briareum stechei (Kükenthal, 1908)
Authors: Zhang Yi-Lin , Chiang Chih-Chao , Lee Yi-Ting , Wen Zhi-Hong , Wu Yang-Chang , Wu Yu-Jen , Hwang Tsong-Long , Wu Tung-Ying , Chang Chia-Yuan , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: July 2020

Our continuous chemical study of a cultured octocoral Briareum stechei led to the isolation of four new briarane diterpenoids, briarenols Q–T (1–4). The structures of new metabolites 1–4 were established by spectroscopic methods, and compounds 3 and 4 were found to inhibit the generation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) from RAW 264.7 stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS).
New Antifungal Metabolites from the Mariana Trench Sediment-Associated Actinomycete Streptomyces sp. SY1965
Authors: Yi Wenwen , Qin Le , Lian Xiao-Yuan , Zhang Zhizhen
Published: July 2020

New streptothiazolidine A (1), streptodiketopiperazines A (2) and B (3), and (S)-1-(3-ethylphenyl)-1,2-ethanediol (4), together with eight known compounds (5–12), were isolated from the Mariana Trench sediment-associated actinomycete Streptomyces sp. SY1965. The racemic mixtures of (±)-streptodiketopiperazine (2 and 3) and (±)-1-(3-ethylphenyl)-1,2-ethanediol (4 and 5) were separated on a chiral high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column. Structures of the new compounds were elucidated by their high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS) data and extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analyses. Streptothiazolidine A is a novel salicylamide analogue with a unique thiazolidine-contained side chain and its absolute configuration was established by a combination of nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) experiment, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and 13C NMR calculations. New streptothiazolidine A (1) and streptodiketopiperazines A (2) and B (3) showed antifungal activity against Candida albicans with MIC values of 47, 42, and 42 g/mL, respectively.
Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cell Treatment is Consistently Effective for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: The Results of a Systematic Review of Treatment and Comparison to a Placebo Group
Authors: Prodromos Chadwick , Finkle Susan , Rumschlag Tobias , Lotus John
Published: July 2020

Background: Numerous studies have used autologous mesenchymal stem cell injections (AMSCI) to treat osteoarthritis. We hypothesized that AMSCI is an effective osteoarthritis treatment with increasing efficacy at higher doses. Methods: We conducted a PubMed search for human clinical studies using AMSCI for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and a second search for placebo arms of injectate OA treatment. Inclusion criteria included treatment outcomes ratings both pre-treatment and at least 6 months post-treatment. Results: 45 AMSCI cohorts from 34 studies met criteria. All AMSCI cohorts showed improvement at mean 15.3 months post-treatment. Mean WOMAC and VAS scores improved at 6-months and at final follow-up (p < 0.0001 for all). Scores > 2 years were also significant (WOMAC p = 0.001/VAS p = 0.004). Results greatly exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) at each time point. AMSCI improvement also substantially exceeded previously published 6-month placebo-treatment improvement. No dose–response relationship was seen. AMSCI cohorts showed continuing improvement ≥ 6 months, and continued upward at one year. Placebo scores were already trending downward by 6 months. Conclusions: AMSCI is a consistently significantly effective treatment for osteoarthritis. It should no longer be stated that data is insufficient to establish AMSCI efficacy for OA. Given its excellent safety profile, AMSCI should be widely used for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Influence of Surface Preparation on the Interface of Al-Cu Joints Produced by Magnetic Pulse Welding
Authors: Emadinia Omid , Ramalho Alexandra Martins , de Oliveira Inês Vieira , Taber Geoffrey A. , Reis Ana
Published: July 2020

Magnetic pulse welding can be considered as an advanced joining technique because it does not require any shielding atmosphere and input heat similar to conventional welding techniques. However, it requires comprehensive evaluations for bonding dissimilar materials. In addition to processing parameters, the surface preparation of the components, such as target material, needs to be evaluated. Different surface conditions were tested (machined, sand-blasted, polished, lubricated, chemically attacked, and threaded) using a fixed gap and standoff distance for welding. Microstructural observations and tensile testing revealed that the weld quality is dependent on surface preparation. The formation of waviness microstructure and intermetallic compounds were verified at the interface of some joints. However, these conditions did not guarantee the strength.
Longitudinal Investigation of the Gut Microbiota in Goat Kids from Birth to Postweaning
Authors: Zhuang Yimin , Chai Jianmin , Cui Kai , Bi Yanliang , Diao Qiyu , Huang Wenqin , Usdrowski Hunter , Zhang Naifeng
Published: July 2020

Early microbial colonization in the gut impacts animal performance and lifelong health. However, research on gut microbial colonization and development in young ruminants, especially after weaning, is currently limited. In this study, next-generation sequencing technology was performed to investigate the temporal dynamic changes of the microbial community in the jejunum and colon of goats at 1, 7, 14, 28, 42, 56, 70, and 84 days (d) of age. As age increased, significant increases in microbial diversity, including the number of Observed OTUs and the Shannon Index, were observed in both the jejunum and colon. Regarding beta diversity, significant shifts in community membership and structure from d1 to d84 were observed based on both Bray–Curtis and Jaccard distances. With increasing age, dominant genera in the jejunum shifted from Lactobacillus to unclassified Ruminococcaceae, unclassified Lachnospiraceae and unclassified Clostridiales through starter supplementation, whereas colonic dominant genera changed from Lactobacillus and Butyricicoccus, within d1–d28, to unclassified Ruminococcaceae, unclassified Clostridiales and Campylobacter after solid diet supplementation. The linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) analysis revealed bacterial features that are stage-specific in the jejunum and colon, respectively. In the jejunum and colon, a significantly distinct structure and membership of the microbiota was observed across all ages. The growth stage-associated microbiota in each gut compartment was also identified as a marker for biogeography. Our data indicate the temporal and spatial differences of the gut microbiota in goats are important for their performance and health. Early microbial colonization can influence microbial composition in later life (e.g., post-weaning phase). This study provides insights that the temporal dynamics of gut microbiota development from newborn to post-weaning can aid in developing feeding strategies to improve goat health and production.
Anti-Mycobacterial Antibiotic Therapy Induces Remission in Active Paediatric Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Agrawal Gaurav , Hamblin Harrison , Clancy Annabel , Borody Thomas
Published: July 2020

Crohn’s disease is increasing in incidence and prevalence in younger people and is of a particularly aggressive nature. One emerging treatment targets Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP), an organism implicated in the causation of Crohn’s disease. This study reviewed a cohort of paediatric patients with active Crohn’s disease treated with Anti-Mycobacterial Antibiotic Therapy (AMAT). Sixteen paediatric patients, the majority of whom had failed conventional immunosuppressive therapy, were treated with AMAT. Endoscopic remission was scored using the Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease and clinical remission was assessed using the Weighted Paediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (wPCDAI). Inflammatory blood markers were also routinely recorded. Patients were followed up clinically and endoscopically during treatment after an average of two months (range 1–6) and 17 months (range 2–49), respectively. A significant reduction in both scores assessing clinical improvement (p < 0.001) and mucosal healing (p < 0.0078) was observed at these timepoints; 47% of patients had achieved clinical remission and 63% endoscopic remission. Haemoglobin and serum inflammatory markers normalised for more than 50% of the cohort by six months of treatment. No adverse effects were reported throughout treatment. This is the first report of Anti-Mycobacterial Antibiotic Therapy offering a safe and efficacious therapy for paediatric patients with Crohn’s disease. Further larger randomised studies are required in order to validate these findings.
Structure and Antiparasitic Activity Relationship of Alkylphosphocholine Analogues against Leishmania donovani
Authors: Ahmed Humera , Carter Katharine C. , Williams Roderick A.M.
Published: July 2020

Miltefosine (Milt) is the only oral treatment for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) but its use is associated with adverse effects, e.g., teratogenicity, vomiting, diarrhoea. Understanding how its chemical structure induces cytotoxicity, whilst not compromising its anti-parasitic efficacy, could identify more effective compounds. Therefore, we systemically modified the compound’s head, tail and linker tested the in vitro activity of three alkylphosphocholines (APC) series against Leishmania donovani strains with different sensitivities to antimony. The analogue, APC12, with an alkyl carbon chain of 12 atoms, was also tested for anti-leishmanial in vivo activity in a murine VL model. All APCs produced had anti-leishmanial activity in the micromolar range (IC50 and IC90, 0.46– > 82.21 µM and 4.14–739.89 µM; 0.01– > 8.02 µM and 0.09–72.18 µM, respectively, against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes). The analogue, APC12 was the most active, was 4–10 fold more effective than the parent Milt molecule (APC16), irrespective of the strain’s sensitivity to antimony. Intravenous administration of 40 mg/kg APC12 to L. donovani infected BALB/c mice reduced liver and spleen parasite burdens by 60 ± 11% and 60 ± 19%, respectively, while oral administration reduced parasite load in the bone marrow by 54 ± 34%. These studies confirm that it is possible to alter the Milt structure and produce more active anti-leishmanial compounds.
Symbioses of Ciliates (Ciliophora) and Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae): Taxonomy and Host–Symbiont Interactions
Authors: Gómez Fernando
Published: July 2020

The nature of the plankton symbioses between ciliates and diatoms has been investigated from the tropical South Atlantic Ocean, and Mediterranean and Caribbean Seas. The obligate symbioses of the diatoms Chaetoceros dadayi or C. tetrastichon with the tintinnid Eutintinnus spp., and Chaetoceros coarctatus with the peritrich ciliate Vorticella oceanica are the most widespread, and the consortium of Chaetoceros densus and Vorticella sp. have been rediscovered. Facultative symbioses between Eutintinnus lususundae and Chaetoceros peruvianus, Hemiaulus spp., and Thalassionema sp. are less frequent, often containing three or four partners because Hemiaulus can also harbor the diazotrophic cyanobacteria Richelia intracellularis. Another three-partner consortium is the peritrich ciliate Zoothamnium pelagicum, ectobiont bacteria, and the diatom Licmophora sp. The predominantly oligotrophic conditions of tropical seas do not favor the survival of large diatoms, but large species of Coscinodiscus and Palmerina in facultative symbiosis with Pseudovorticella coscinodisci have a competitive advantage over other diatoms (i.e., reduction of sinking speed and diffusive boundary layer). Symbioses allow sessile peritric ciliates to extend their distribution in the pelagic environment, permit boreal-polar related diatoms such as C. coarctatus or Fragilariopsis doliolus to inhabit tropical seas, and help large diatoms to extend their survival under unfavorable conditions.