bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Computational Analysis of Blood Flow through Portal Vein under Normal and Extrahepatic Obstructions
Authors: Aktar Mst Khorseda , Islam Md Tajul
Published: January 2018

Portal hypertension is an alarming disease globally whereas Extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) is an important cause of portal hypertension among children in most of the Asian countries. The frequent occurrence of this disease is due to the formation of thrombosis in the portal vein. To acquire insights into the behaviour of hemodynamics, EHPVO case is studied by the technique of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) by considering partial block formation with different sizes inside the main portal vein. On the basis of block sizes, three cases namely normal portal vein (without block in the portal vein) case, 40% block in the portal vein case and 85% block in the portal vein case are simulated by assuming a 2D steady, laminar and fully developed flow with no-slip wall condition using AnsysTM Fluent. Our study reveals that the flow distribution between the left and right branches of the portal vein is significantly influenced by the formation of the block in the main portal vein. It is concluded that Extrahepatic portal vein obstruction leads to the possibility of Hypertrophy and Atrophy complex to the liver and could heighten the risk of liver diseases. Our numerical examination will play a great role to the Liver Specialist for understanding the flow behavior with obstructed flow path as well as the diagnosis of associated liver disease and their treatments.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 2, 183-199, 2017
Calculation of Ferromagnetic State and Critical Temperature in Transition Metal Doped III-V Wurtzite Semiconductors
Authors: Shamsul MA , Shahjahan M , Rahman MM
Published: January 2018

The magnetic properties and electronic states of the transition metal doped III-V wurtzite compounds (A1−xMx)N are calculated using Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker Green’s function method combined with the coherent potential approximation, where A = Al, Ga and M = 3d transition metal atoms namely V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and x is the fractional concentration of M. The positive value of the energy difference between ferromagnetic (FM) state and disordered local magnetic moment (DLM) state per unit cell denotes the magnetic phase stability. The total energy difference (EDLMEFM) is used to estimate the Curie temperature (TC) within the mean-field approximation. The calculated TC of V and Cr doped nitrides increases rapidly at lower concentrations and is found to be above the room temperature in the concentration range of x = 0.05 – 0.20. The FM behavior in Mn doped (Al1−xMnx)N is suppressed at the concentration range of x = 0.01 – 0.10. A clear phase transition from DLM to FM state occurs at concentrations x > 0.10. The energy difference in Fe, Co and Ni doped materials, results in lower values of the DLM states, where the super-exchange interaction dominates over the FM one. The FM materials exhibiting TC above room temperature have applications in the field of spintronics.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 2, 217-225, 2017
Study on the Displacement Effect at Cylindrical Ionization Chambers in High Energy Photon of Flat and True Beams
Authors: Paul Kumaresh Chandra , Hartmann Guenther H , Zakaria Golam Abu
Published: January 2018

Absorbed dose to water determination in the clinical practice introduces several perturbations factors in ionization chamber dosimetry. Displacement perturbation is one of them, which can be corrected by introducing the chamber-specific quality correction factor (kQ) or by introducing the concept of effective point of measurement (EPOM). The EPOM is the point in the chamber at which the measured dose would be the same as the measuring depth in absence of chamber. The aim of this study was to measure the displacement effect at cylindrical ionization chambers in 6 and 10 MV flat and true photon beams. The percentage of depth doses (PDDs) were considered for determining the shift of EPOM with respect to the well established Roos chamber. The displacement effect obtained a range of 0.25 to 0.57 times r (chamber radius) both in flat and true beams, which disagreed with the TRS-398 protocol recommended constant value of 0.6r.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 2, 227-235, 2017
Comparative Study of Non Polar and Polar Solvent Extracts of Glochidion Velutinum Wight in Respect of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Action
Authors: Hossain Md Selim , Das Ananta Kumar , Rabbi Fazlay , Ahmad Mesbahuddin
Published: January 2018

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of non-polar and polar extracts of Glochidion velutinum Wight have been studied. The phenolic content was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and colorimetric method was used to quantify flavonoids. Antioxidant activity was also measured by DPPH free radical scavenging assay and disk diffusion method was applied to test antimicrobial activity. Of the hexane, chloroform, ethanol and methanol extracts of Glochidion velutinum, higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found in methanol and ethanol extracts. Moreover, ethanol and methanol extracts also showed better antimicrobial and antioxidant activities than the other two extracts. The presence of various phytochemicals e.g. alkaloids, tannins, phenols etc in these extracts also substantiated the observed antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 2, 247-252, 2017
Outcome of Near Miss Cases in a Periurban Hospital
Authors: Nazmeen Summyia , Tasnim Saria , Ara Iffat
Published: January 2018

A near miss or severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM) means a woman (in pregnancy /labour/puerperium) who was almost dead but survived. It is often poor, socially excluded women that suffer most. The objective of this study was to explore the outcome of near miss cases admitted in the hospital along with their presentation, socio demographic characteristic and medical and surgical intervention needed. It was a cross sectional study conducted from 1st July 2009 to 31st December 2009 at Institute of Child and Mother Health. Among cases who got admitted in the hospital in moribund condition with pregnancy related complications. Total 91 patients were enrolled consecutively. Data were collected by structured questionnaires. Analysis was done using SPSS program. About 72% of women were at second decade of their lives and 71% of them were from poor socioeconomic condition. About 39% patients did not take any antenatal checkup. A near miss or severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM) means a woman (in pregnancy /labour/puerperium) who was almost dead but survived. It is often poor, socially excluded women that suffer most. The objective of this study was to explore the outcome of near miss cases admitted in the hospital along with their presentation, socio demographic characteristic and medical and surgical intervention needed. It was a cross sectional study conducted from 1st July 2009 to 31st December 2009 at Institute of Child and Mother Health. Among cases who got admitted in the hospital in moribund condition with pregnancy related complications. Total 91 patients were enrolled consecutively. Data were collected by structured questionnaires. Analysis was done using SPSS program. About 72% of women were at second decade of their lives and 71% of them were from poor socioeconomic condition. About 39% patients did not take any antenatal checkup.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(1): 20-25
Difficult ERCP with Aberrant Papilla A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Perveen Shaila , Rahman SM Mizanur , Hossain Md SM Motahar , Chowdhury Niamul Gani , Ahmed Mir Azimuddin
Published: January 2018

The ampulla of Vater encompasses the openings of both the common bile duct (CBD) and pancreatic duct (PD). Presently ERCP has allowed better observation of the papillae in ectopic locations. The diagnosis of ectopic papillae can be done by radiological studies also but they are expensive and not affordable by all patients so most of the cases of ectopic papillae are identified by ERCP. An ectopic location, distal to the second part, in the third or fourth parts of duodenum has been described frequently but a proximal location is rare. Only a few cases have been found to be located in the gastric, pyloric and duodenal bulb areas. We report three such rare cases of anomalous ectopic ampullae discovered during the performance of ERCP from the Department of Gastroenterology, Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka and also a short review of the literature. In these three subjects one papilla was located in the pylorus and other two in the first part of the duodenum. All of them presented with features of choledocholithiasis with cholangitis. They were successfully managed by therapeutic ERCP. Clinical implications of these rare anomalies and anatomical variations can assist the gastroenterologists in effective patient management.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(1): 37-40
Volume Breast Ultrasound in a Patient with Breast Lump
Authors: Rupa Sharmin Aktar , Nahar Kamrun , Sultana Salma
Published: January 2018

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(1): 41
From the Desk of Editor in Chief Vol.36(1)
Authors: Islam Ferdousi
Published: January 2018

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(1): 43
Utilizing Process-Based Modeling to Assess the Impact of Climate Change on Crop Yields and Adaptation Options in the Niger River Basin, West Africa
Authors: Akumaga Uvirkaa , Tarhule Aondover , Piani Claudio , Traore Bouba , Yusuf Ado
Published: January 2018

Climate change is estimated to substantially reduce crop yields in Sub-Saharan West Africa by 2050. Yet, a limited number of studies also suggest that several adaptation measures may mitigate the effects of climate change induced yield loss. In this paper, we used AquaCrop, a process-based model developed by the FAO (The Food and Agriculture Organization, Rome, Italy), to quantify the risk of climate change on several key cereal crops in the Niger Basin. The crops analyzed include maize, millet, and sorghum under rain fed cultivation systems in various agro-ecological zones within the Niger Basin. We also investigated several adaptation strategies, including changes in the sowing dates, soil nutrient status, and cultivar. Future climate change is estimated using nine ensemble bias-corrected climate model projection results under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 (RCP—Representative Concentration Pathway) emissions scenario at mid future time period, 2021/25–2050. The results show that on average, temperature had a larger effect on crop yields so that the increase in precipitation could still be a net loss of crop yield. Our simulated results showed that climate change effects on maize and sorghum yield would be mostly positive (2% to 6% increase) in the Southern Guinea savanna zone while at the Northern Guinea savanna zone it is mostly negative (2% to 20% decrease). The results show that at the Sahelian zone the projected changes in temperature and precipitation have little to no impact on millet yield for the future time period, 2021/25–2050. In all agro-ecological zones, increasing soil fertility from poor fertility to moderate, near optimal and optimal level significantly reversed the negative yield change respectively by over 20%, 70% and 180% for moderate fertility, near optimal fertility, and optimal fertility. Thus, management or adaptation factors, such as soil fertility, had a much larger effect on crop yield than the climatic change factors. These results provide actionable guidance on effective climate change adaptation strategies for rain fed agriculture in the region.
Phage-Bacterial Dynamics with Spatial Structure: Self Organization around Phage Sinks Can Promote Increased Cell Densities
Authors: Bull James , Christensen Kelly , Scott Carly , Jack Benjamin , Crandall Cameron , Krone Stephen
Published: January 2018

Bacteria growing on surfaces appear to be profoundly more resistant to control by lytic bacteriophages than do the same cells grown in liquid. Here, we use simulation models to investigate whether spatial structure per se can account for this increased cell density in the presence of phages. A measure is derived for comparing cell densities between growth in spatially structured environments versus well mixed environments (known as mass action). Maintenance of sensitive cells requires some form of phage death; we invoke death mechanisms that are spatially fixed, as if produced by cells. Spatially structured phage death provides cells with a means of protection that can boost cell densities an order of magnitude above that attained under mass action, although the effect is sometimes in the opposite direction. Phage and bacteria self organize into separate refuges, and spatial structure operates so that the phage progeny from a single burst do not have independent fates (as they do with mass action). Phage incur a high loss when invading protected areas that have high cell densities, resulting in greater protection for the cells. By the same metric, mass action dynamics either show no sustained bacterial elevation or oscillate between states of low and high cell densities and an elevated average. The elevated cell densities observed in models with spatial structure do not approach the empirically observed increased density of cells in structured environments with phages (which can be many orders of magnitude), so the empirical phenomenon likely requires additional mechanisms than those analyzed here.
An Optimal Domestic Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy for Reducing Network Transmission Loss While Taking Seasonal Factors into Consideration
Authors: Zhao Yuancheng , Che Yanbo , Wang Dianmeng , Liu Huanan , Shi Kun , Yu Dongmin
Published: January 2018

With the rapid growth of domestic electric vehicle charging loads, the peak-valley gap and power fluctuation rate of power systems increase sharply, which can lead to the increase of network losses and energy efficiency reduction. This paper tries to regulate network loads and reduce power system transmission loss by optimizing domestic electric vehicle charging loads. In this paper, a domestic electric vehicle charging loads model is first developed by analyzing the key factors that can affect users’ charging behavior. Subsequently, the Monte Carlo method is proposed to simulate the power consumption of a cluster of domestic electric vehicles. After that, an optimal electric vehicle charging strategy based on the 0-1 integer programming is presented to regulate network daily loads. Finally, by taking the IEEE33 distributed power system as an example, this paper tries to verify the efficacy of the proposed optimal charging strategy and the necessity for considering seasonal factors when scheduling electric vehicle charging loads. Simulation results show that the proposed 0-1 integer programming method does have good performance in reducing the network peak-valley gap, voltage fluctuation rate, and transmission loss. Moreover, it has some potential to further reduce power system transmission loss when seasonal factors are considered.
Fast Volumetric Ultrasound B-Mode and Doppler Imaging with a New High-Channels Density Platform for Advanced 4D Cardiac Imaging/Therapy
Authors: Petrusca Lorena , Varray François , Souchon Rémi , Bernard Adeline , Chapelon Jean-Yves , Liebgott Hervé , N’Djin William , Viallon Magalie
Published: January 2018

A novel ultrasound (US) high-channels platform is a pre-requisite to open new frontiers in diagnostic and/or therapy by experimental implementation of innovative advanced US techniques. To date, a few systems with more than 1000 transducers permit full and simultaneous control in both transmission and receiving of all single elements of arrays. A powerful US platform for implementing 4-D (real-time 3-D) advanced US strategies, offering full research access, is presented in this paper. It includes a 1024-elements array prototype designed for 4-D cardiac dual-mode US imaging/therapy and 4 synchronized Vantage systems. The physical addressing of each element was properly chosen for allowing various array downsampled combinations while minimizing the number of driving systems. Numerical simulations of US imaging were performed, and corresponding experimental data were acquired to compare full and downsampled array strategies, testing 4-D imaging sequences and reconstruction processes. The results indicate the degree of degradation of image quality when using full array or downsampled combinations, and the contrast ratio and the contrast to noise ratio vary from 7.71 dB to 2.02 dB and from 2.99 dB to −7.31 dB, respectively. Moreover, the feasibility of the 4-D US platform implementation was tested on a blood vessel mimicking phantom for preliminary Doppler applications. The acquired data with fast volumetric imaging with up to 2000 fps allowed assessing the validity of common 3-D power Doppler, opening in this way a large field of applications.
A Review of Model-Based Design Tools for Metal-Air Batteries
Authors: Clark Simon , Latz Arnulf , Horstmann Birger
Published: January 2018

The advent of large-scale renewable energy generation and electric mobility is driving a growing need for new electrochemical energy storage systems. Metal-air batteries, particularly zinc-air, are a promising technology that could help address this need. While experimental research is essential, it can also be expensive and time consuming. The utilization of well-developed theory-based models can improve researchers’ understanding of complex electrochemical systems, guide development, and more efficiently utilize experimental resources. In this paper, we review the current state of metal-air batteries and the modeling methods that can be implemented to advance their development. Microscopic and macroscopic modeling methods are discussed with a focus on continuum modeling derived from non-equilibrium thermodynamics. An applied example of zinc-air battery engineering is presented.
Enzymatic Fuel Cells: Towards Self-Powered Implantable and Wearable Diagnostics
Authors: Gonzalez-Solino Carla , Lorenzo Mirella
Published: January 2018

With the rapid progress in nanotechnology and microengineering, point-of-care and personalised healthcare, based on wearable and implantable diagnostics, is becoming a reality. Enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) hold great potential as a sustainable means to power such devices by using physiological fluids as the fuel. This review summarises the fundamental operation of EFCs and discusses the most recent advances for their use as implantable and wearable self-powered sensors.
Nucleus Accumbens Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients with Substance Use Disorders and Delay Discounting
Authors: Peisker Canan , Schüller Thomas , Peters Jan , Wagner Ben , Schilbach Leonhard , Müller Ulf , Visser-Vandewalle Veerle , Kuhn Jens
Published: January 2018

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shows first promising results in patients with severe substance use disorder (SUD), a patient group known to have deficits in self-control. One facet of self-control is the ability to forego smaller sooner rewards in favor of larger later rewards (delay discounting, DD). The NAc has been suggested to integrate motivational information to guide behavior while the consequences of NAc-DBS on DD are unknown. To this end, nine patients with SUD performed a DD task with DBS on and after a 24 h DBS off period. Furthermore, 18 healthy controls were measured to assess possible alterations in DD in patients with SUD. Our findings implicate that DD was not significantly modulated by NAc-DBS and also that patients with SUD did not differ from healthy controls. While null results must be interpreted with caution, the commonly observed association of impaired DD in SUD might suggest a long-term effect of NAc-DBS that was not sufficiently modulated by a 24 h DBS off period.
Epilepsy: A Call for Help
Authors: Sadanand Venkatraman
Published: January 2018

Epilepsy is a considerable individual and social economic burden. In properly selected patients, epilepsy surgery can provide significant relief from disease, including remission. However, the surgical treatment of epilepsy lags in terms of knowledge and technology. The problem arises due to its slow adaptation and dissemination. This article explores this issue of a wide treatment gap and its causes. It develops a framework for a rational decision-making process that is appropriate for extant circumstances and will result in the speedy delivery of surgical care for suitable patients with medically intractable epilepsy.
The Emerging Role of Tractography in Deep Brain Stimulation: Basic Principles and Current Applications
Authors: Rodrigues Nelson , Mithani Karim , Meng Ying , Lipsman Nir , Hamani Clement
Published: January 2018

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an MRI-based technique that delineates white matter tracts in the brain by tracking the diffusion of water in neural tissue. This methodology, known as “tractography”, has been extensively applied in clinical neuroscience to explore nervous system architecture and diseases. More recently, tractography has been used to assist with neurosurgical targeting in functional neurosurgery. This review provides an overview of DTI principles, and discusses current applications of tractography for improving and helping develop novel deep brain stimulation (DBS) targets.
Controlling the Incorporation of Phosphorus Functionalities on Carbon Nanofibers: Effects on the Catalytic Performance of Fructose Dehydration
Authors: Campisi Sebastiano , Sanchez Trujillo Felipe , Motta Davide , Davies Thomas , Dimitratos Nikolaos , Villa Alberto
Published: January 2018

Phosphorylated carbons have been reported to be effective catalysts in dehydration reactions for biomass valorization. The amount and the nature of P groups are a key parameter affecting the catalytic performances of functionalized materials. Herein, we investigate the role of structural and surface properties of carbon-based materials, specifically carbon nanofibers, in determining the amount of P-functionalities. In order to incorporate P groups on carbon surfaces, various carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with different graphitization degrees have been functionalized through treatment with a H3PO4-HNO3 mixture at 150 °C. The pristine materials, as well as the functionalization protocol, were properly selected to achieve an effective functionalization without drastically altering the morphology of the samples. Surface and structural properties of the synthesized functionalized materials have been investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The catalytic behavior of phosphorylated carbon nanofibers has been evaluated in the selective dehydration of fructose to hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to elucidate structure-activity relationships.
Highly Efficient Acetalization and Ketalization Catalyzed by Cobaloxime under Solvent-Free Condition
Authors: Zong Yang , Yang Liting , Tang Shanyu , Li Longjia , Wang Wanjie , Yuan Bingxin , Yang Guanyu
Published: January 2018

An efficient catalytic system was developed for the acetalization and ketalization of carbonyl compounds with polyhydric alcohols under mild solvent-free conditions. In the presence of 0.1 mol% CoCl2 and 0.2 mol% dimethylglyoxime at 70 °C under 5 KPa pressure for 1 h, 95.3% conversion of cyclohexanone and 100% selectivity of the corresponding cyclic ketal could be obtained, where TOF reached as high as 953 h−1. It is proposed that the in situ generated planartetracoordinate cobaloxime played the key role in the catalytic cycle and was responsible for the excellent catalytic performance.
A Review of Apps for Calming, Relaxation, and Mindfulness Interventions for Pediatric Palliative Care Patients
Authors: Weekly Taelyr , Walker Nicole , Beck Jill , Akers Sean , Weaver Meaghann
Published: January 2018

Patients and families increasingly use mobile apps as a relaxation and distraction intervention for children with complex, chronic medical conditions in the waiting room setting or during inpatient hospitalizations; and yet, there is limited data on app quality assessment or review of these apps for level of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, or applicability for palliative pediatric patients. The pediatric palliative care study team searched smartphone application platforms for apps relevant to calming, relaxation, and mindfulness for pediatric and adolescent patients. Apps were reviewed using a systematic data extraction tool. Validated Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) scores were determined by two blinded reviewers. Apps were then characterized by infant, child, adolescent, and adult caregiver group categories. Reviewer discussion resulted in consensus. Sixteen of the 22 apps identified were included in the final analysis. The apps operated on either iOS or Android platforms. All were available in English with four available in Spanish. Apps featured a relaxation approach (12/16), soothing images (8/16), and breathing techniques (8/16). Mood and sleep patterns were the main symptoms targeted by apps. Provision of mobile apps resource summary has the potential to foster pediatric palliative care providers’ knowledge of app functionality and applicability as part of ongoing patient care.
Utility of Non-Invasive Monitoring of Cardiac Output and Cerebral Oximetry during Pain Management of Children with Sickle Cell Disease in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Padmanabhan Pradeep , Oragwu Chikelue , Das Bibhuti , Myers John , Raj Ashok
Published: January 2018

Pain crisis in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) is typically managed with intravenous fluids and parenteral opioids in the pediatric emergency department. Electrical cardiometry (EC) can be utilized to measure cardiac output (CO) and cardiac index (CI) non-invasively. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measuring cerebral (rCO2) and splanchnic regional (rSO2) mixed venous oxygenation non-invasively has been utilized for monitoring children with SCD. We studied the value and correlation of NIRS and EC in monitoring hemodynamic status in children with SCD during pain crisis. We monitored EC and NIRS continuously for 2 h after presentation and during management. Forty-five children participated in the study. CO (D = 1.72), CI (D = 1.31), rSO2 (D = 11.6), and rCO2 (D = 9.3), all increased over time. CO max and CI max were achieved 1 h after starting resuscitation. rCO2 max attainment was quicker than rSO2, as monitored by NIRS. CI max correlated with rCO2 max (r = −0.350) and rSO2 max (r = −0.359). In adjustment models, initial CI significantly impacted initial rCO2 (p = 0.045) and rCO2 max (p = 0.043), while initial CO impacted rCO2 max (p = 0.030). Cardiac output monitoring and NIRS monitoring for cerebral and splanchnic oxygenation were feasible and improved the monitoring of therapeutic interventions for children with SCD during pain crisis.
Graphene Ink Film Based Electrochemical Detector for Paracetamol Analysis
Authors: Fu Li , Xie Kefeng , Zheng Yuhong , Zhang Luxi , Su Weitao
Published: January 2018

Graphene ink is a commercialized product in the graphene industry with promising potential application in electronic device design. However, the limitation of the graphene ink is its low electronic performance due to the ink preparation protocol. In this work, we proposed a simple post-treatment of graphene ink coating via electrochemical oxidation. The electronic conductivity of the graphene ink coating was enhanced as expected after the treatment. The proposed electrochemical oxidation treatment also exposes the defects of graphene and triggered an electrocatalytic reaction during the sensing of paracetamol (PA). The overpotential of redox is much lower than conventional PA redox potential, which is favorable for avoiding the interference species. Under optimum conditions, the graphene ink-based electrochemical sensor could linearly detect PA from 10 to 500 micro molar (μM), with a limit of detection of 2.7 μM.
Biodiesel from Hydrolyzed Waste Cooking Oil Using a S-ZrO2/SBA-15 Super Acid Catalyst under Sub-Critical Conditions
Authors: Hossain Muhammad , Siddik Bhuyan Md , Alam Abul , Seo Yong
Published: January 2018

Due to rapid changes in food habits, a substantial amount of waste fat and used oils are generated each year. Due to strong policies, the disposal of this material into nearby sewers causes ecological and environmental problems in many parts of the world. For efficient management, waste cooking oil, a less expensive, alternative and promising feedstock, can be used as a raw material for producing biofuel. In the present study, we produced a biodiesel from hydrolyzed waste cooking oil with a subcritical methanol process using a synthesized solid super acid catalyst, a sulfated zirconium oxide supported on Santa Barbara Amorphous silica (S-ZrO2/SBA-15). The characterization of the synthesized catalyst was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method. The catalytic effect on biodiesel production was examined by varying the parameters: temperatures of 120 to 200 °C, 5–20 min times, oil-to-methanol mole ratios between 1:5 to 1:20, and catalyst loadings of 1–2.5%. The maximum biodiesel yield was 96.383%, obtained under optimum reaction conditions of 140 °C, 10 min, and a 1:10 oil-to-methanol molar ratio with a 2.0% catalyst loading. We successfully reused the catalyst five times without regeneration with a 90% efficiency. The fuel properties were found to be within the limits set by the biodiesel standard.
Announcing the 2018 Future Internet Travel Award for PhD Students
Authors: Giuli Dino
Published: January 2018

With the goal of promoting the development of early career investigators in the fields of Internet 11 technologies and the information society, Future Internet welcomed applications for the 2018 Future 12 Internet Travel Award for PhD students.[...]
Human-Related Ignitions Increase the Number of Large Wildfires across U.S. Ecoregions
Authors: Nagy R. Chelsea , Fusco Emily , Bradley Bethany , Abatzoglou John T. , Balch Jennifer
Published: January 2018

Large fires account for the majority of burned area and are an important focus of fire management. However, ‘large’ is typically defined by a fire size threshold, minimizing the importance of proportionally large fires in less fire-prone ecoregions. Here, we defined ‘large fires’ as the largest 10% of wildfires by ecoregion (n = 175,222 wildfires from 1992 to 2015) across the United States (U.S.). Across ecoregions, we compared fire size, seasonality, and environmental conditions (e.g., wind speed, fuel moisture, biomass, vegetation type) of large human- and lighting-started fires that required a suppression response. Mean large fire size varied by three orders of magnitude: from 1 to 10 ha in the Northeast vs. >1000 ha in the West. Humans ignited four times as many large fires as lightning, and were the dominant source of large fires in the eastern and western U.S. (starting 92% and 65% of fires, respectively). Humans started 80,896 large fires in seasons when lightning-ignited fires were rare. Large human-started fires occurred in locations and months of significantly higher fuel moisture and wind speed than large lightning-started fires. National-scale fire policy should consider risks to ecosystems and economies by these proportionally large fires and include human drivers in large fire risk assessment.
Challenges in Using Hydrology and Water Quality Models for Assessing Freshwater Ecosystem Services: A Review
Authors: Hallouin Thibault , Bruen Michael , Christie Mike , Bullock Craig , Kelly-Quinn Mary
Published: January 2018

Freshwater ecosystems contribute to many ecosystem services, many of which are being threatened by human activities such as land use change, river morphological changes, and climate change. Many disciplines have studied the processes underlying freshwater ecosystem functions, ranging from hydrology to ecology, including water quality, and a panoply of models are available to simulate their behaviour. This understanding is useful for the prediction of ecosystem services, but the model outputs must go beyond the production of time-series of biophysical variables, and must facilitate the beneficial use of the information it contains about the ecosystem services it describes. This article analyses the literature of ad hoc approaches that aim at quantifying one or more freshwater ecosystem services. It identifies the strategies adopted to use disciplinary-specific models for the prediction of the services. This review identifies that hydrological, water quality, and ecological models form a valuable knowledge base to predict changes in ecosystem conditions, but challenges remain to make proper and fruitful use of these models. In particular, considerations of temporal and spatial scales could be given more attention in order to provide better justifications for the choice of a particular model over another, including the uncertainty in their predictions.
The Encounter with the Identical Other: The Literary Double as a Manifestation of Failure in Self-Constitution
Authors: Tal Michal
Published: January 2018

Literary pieces featuring the double depict an encounter between the protagonist and another person, who is her identical other. Therefore they face various difficulties related to a threat cast on their unique identity, and this encounter challenges their process of self-definition. Martin Buber sees the existence of the other as essential for the occurrence of self-constitution within an individual. He maintains that any person needs another person to obtain confirmation of what she is and is born equipped with the ability to confirm her fellow-person in the same way (1959). However, as the other encountered by a doppelgänger protagonist is not truly “other”, the latter might confront a difficulty in the different stages of Buber’s self-constitution process. This paper seeks to shed light on the inter- and intra-personal relationships depicted in literary pieces focusing on the theme of the double, such as The Double (Dostoyevsky [1846] 1997; Saramago 2002), Despair (1965), and Too Much Nina (Orbach 2011), emphasizing the limitations cast by the encounter with the identical other on the protagonist’s self-constitution, as put forward by Buber.
Depression in Intimate Partner Violence Victims in Slovenia: A Crippling Pattern of Factors Identified in Family Practice Attendees
Authors: Kopčavar Guček Nena , Selič Polona
Published: January 2018

This multi-centre cross-sectional study explored associations between prevalence of depression and exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) at any time in patients’ adult life in 471 participants of a previous IPV study. In 2016, 174 interviews were performed, using the Short Form Domestic Violence Exposure Questionnaire, the Zung Scale and questions about behavioural patterns of exposure to IPV. Family doctors reviewed patients’ medical charts for period from 2012 to 2016, using the Domestic Violence Exposure Medical Chart Check List, for conditions which persisted for at least three years. Depression was found to be associated with any exposure to IPV in adult life and was more likely to affect women. In multivariable logistic regression modelling, factors associated with self-rated depression were identified (p < 0.05). Exposure to emotional and physical violence was identified as a risk factor in the first model, explaining 23% of the variance. The second model explained 66% of the variance; past divorce, dysfunctional family relationships and a history of incapacity to work increased the likelihood of depression in patients. Family doctors should consider IPV exposure when detecting depression, since lifetime IPV exposure was found to be 40.4% and 36.9% of depressed revealed it.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor and Its Role in the Management of Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Kaplan Joshua , Sharma Neeraj , Dikdan Sean
Published: January 2018

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) plays a crucial role in the response to hypoxia at the cellular, tissue, and organism level. New agents under development to pharmacologically manipulate HIF may provide new and exciting possibilities in the treatment of anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as in multiple other disease states involving ischemia–reperfusion injury. This article provides an overview of recent studies describing current standards of care for patients with anemia in CKD and associated clinical issues, and those supporting the clinical potential for targeting HIF stabilization with HIF prolyl-hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF-PHI) in these patients. Additionally, articles reporting the clinical potential for HIF-PHIs in ‘other’ putative therapeutic areas, the tissue and intracellular distribution of HIF- and prolyl-hydroxylase domain (PHD) isoforms, and HIF isoforms targeted by the different PHDs, were identified. There is increasing uncertainty regarding the optimal treatment for anemia of CKD with poorer outcomes associated with treatment to higher hemoglobin targets, and the increasing use of iron and consequent risk of iron imbalance. Attainment and maintenance of more physiologic erythropoietin levels associated with HIF stabilization may improve the management of patients resistant to treatment with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and improve outcomes at higher hemoglobin targets.
S1P Signalling Differentially Affects Migration of Peritoneal B Cell Populations In Vitro and Influences the Production of Intestinal IgA In Vivo
Authors: Kleinwort Annabel , Lührs Felix , Heidecke Claus-Dieter , Lipp Martin , Schulze Tobias
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) regulates the migration of follicular B cells (B2 cells) and directs the positioning of Marginal zone B cells (MZ B cells) within the spleen. The function of S1P signalling in the third B cell lineage, B1 B cells, mainly present in the pleural and peritoneal cavity, has not yet been determined. Methods: S1P receptor expression was analysed in peritoneal B cells by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The chemotactic response to S1P was studied in vitro. The role of S1P signalling was further explored in a s1p4−/− mouse strain. Results: Peritoneal B cells expressed considerable amounts of the S1P receptors 1 and 4 (S1P1 and S1P4, respectively). S1P1 showed differential expression between the distinct peritoneal B cell lineages. While B2 cells showed no chemotactic response to S1P, B1 B cells showed a migration response to S1P. s1p4−/− mice displayed significant alterations in the composition of peritoneal B cell populations, as well as a significant reduction of mucosal immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the gut. Discussion: S1P signalling influences peritoneal B1 B cell migration. S1P4 deficiency alters the composition of peritoneal B cell populations and reduces secretory IgA levels. These findings suggest that S1P signalling may be a target to modulate B cell function in inflammatory intestinal pathologies.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis on the Seizure of a Carbon-Filled PTFE Central Groove Journal Bearing during Start-Up Period
Authors: Pap Bálint , Fillon Michel , Guillemont Maxence , Bauduin Lionel , Chocron Joseph , Gédin Patrice , Biadalla Ludwig
Published: January 2018

During the start-up period, if the journals bearing bushing and shaft materials have different heat conductivities, the thermal expansion of the shaft might be more rapid than that of the bushing. This reduces the radial clearance between the bearing components and generates higher shear stresses in the lubricating fluid, which can lead to bearing seizure, resulting in the deterioration of the journal bearing. (1) First, we present an experimental case study of the seizure of a central groove journal bearing with a carbon-filled polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) bushing and a steel shaft; (2) Then, a static thermoelastohydrodynamic (TEHD) simulation is compared to Cristea’s experiments (Cristea, A.-F., 2012); (3) Then, a pseudo-transient TEHD simulation is performed in order to numerically predict the observed phenomena on the test rig; (4) Finally, the evolution of the oil flow rate and the bushing temperatures during the start-up period determined with the pseudo-transient TEHD modelling are compared to the experimental data of the test rig. The pressure field is determined with the thermohydrodynamic (THD) Elrod’s modelling, with Vijayaraghvan’s robust solver algorithm. The pseudo-transient temperature field in the bearing components as well as the thermal and mechanical deformations are calculated with a commercial software.
Towards a Microscopic Theory of the Knight Shift in an Anisotropic, Multiband Type-II Superconductor
Authors: Klemm Richard
Published: January 2018

A method is proposed to extend the zero-temperature Hall-Klemm microscopic theory of the Knight shift K in an anisotropic and correlated, multi-band metal to calculate K ( T ) at finite temperatures T both above and into its superconducting state. The transverse part of the magnetic induction B ( t ) = B 0 + B 1 ( t ) causes adiabatic changes suitable for treatment with the Keldysh contour formalism and analytic continuation onto the real axis. We propose that the Keldysh-modified version of the Gor’kov method can be used to evaluate K ( T ) at high B 0 both in the normal state, and by quantizing the conduction electrons or holes with Landau orbits arising from B 0 , also in the entire superconducting regime for an anisotropic, multiband Type-II BCS superconductor. Although the details have not yet been calculated in detail, it appears that this approach could lead to the simple result K S ( T ) ≈ a ( B 0 ) − b ( B 0 ) | Δ ( B 0 , T ) | 2 , where 2 | Δ ( B 0 , T ) | is the effective superconducting gap. More generally, this approach can lead to analytic expressions for K S ( T ) for anisotropic, multiband Type-II superconductors of various orbital symmetries that could aid in the interpretation of experimental data on unconventional superconductors.
Three-Dimensional Fractal Geometry for Gas Permeation in Microchannels
Authors: Malankowska Magdalena , Schlautmann Stefan , Berenschot Erwin , Tiggelaar Roald , Pina Maria , Mallada Reyes , Tas Niels , Gardeniers Han
Published: January 2018

The novel concept of a microfluidic chip with an integrated three-dimensional fractal geometry with nanopores, acting as a gas transport membrane, is presented. The method of engineering the 3D fractal structure is based on a combination of anisotropic etching of silicon and corner lithography. The permeation of oxygen and carbon dioxide through the fractal membrane is measured and validated theoretically. The results show high permeation flux due to low resistance to mass transfer because of the hierarchical branched structure of the fractals, and the high number of the apertures. This approach offers an advantage of high surface to volume ratio and pores in the range of nanometers. The obtained results show that the gas permeation through the nanonozzles in the form of fractal geometry is remarkably enhanced in comparison to the commonly-used polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) dense membrane. The developed chip is envisioned as an interesting alternative for gas-liquid contactors that require harsh conditions, such as microreactors or microdevices, for energy applications.
Effect of Temperature on Flavor Compounds and Sensory Characteristics of Maillard Reaction Products Derived from Mushroom Hydrolysate
Authors: Chen Xiao , Yu Jingyang , Cui Heping , Xia Shuqin , Zhang Xiaoming , Yang Baoru
Published: January 2018

Maillard reaction products (MRPs) were prepared from mushroom hydrolysate (MH) by heating with d-xylose and l-cysteine at various temperatures (100 °C–140 °C) for 2 h at a pH of 7.4. The sensory characteristics of MH and MRPs were evaluated by panelists and volatile compounds were analyzed by GC/MS. Additionally, partial least squares regression (PLSR) was performed to analyze the correlation between quantitative sensory characteristics and GC/MS data. GC/MS results revealed that higher reaction temperature resulted in more nitrogen and sulfur containing compounds in MRPs while alcohols, ketones and aldehydes were the major flavor compounds obtained in MH. PLSR results showed that 3-phenylfuran and 2-octylfuran were the compounds responsible for the caramel-like flavor; 1-octen-3-ol, (E)-2-octen-1-ol and geranyl acetone were significantly and positively correlated to mushroom-like flavor, whereas, 2-thiophene-carboxaldehyde, 2,5-thiophenedicarboxaldehyde and 3-methylbutanal positively affected MRPs meat-like attribute. Overall, 125 °C was identified as the optimal temperature for preparing MRPs with abundant volatile compounds and favorable sensory characteristics; the concentration of free amino acids and 5′-GMP, which are associated with the umami taste, in MRPs derived under 125 °C were 3 to 4 times higher than those in MH.
N-Salicyloyltryptamine, an N-Benzoyltryptamine Analogue, Induces Vasorelaxation through Activation of the NO/sGC Pathway and Reduction of Calcium Influx
Authors: Veras Robson , Silva Darizy , Bezerra Lorena , Assis Valéria , Vasconcelos Walma , Alustau Maria , Albuquerque José , Furtado Fabíola , Araújo Islania , Azevedo Fátima , Ribeiro Thais , Barbosa-Filho José , Gutierrez Stanley , Medeiros Isac
Published: January 2018

Benzoyltryptamine analogues act as neuroprotective and spasmolytic agents on smooth muscles. In this study, we investigated the ability of N-salicyloyltryptamine (STP) to produce vasorelaxation and determined its underlying mechanisms of action. Isolated rat mesenteric arteries with and without functional endothelium were studied in an isometric contraction system in the presence or absence of pharmacological inhibitors. Amperometric experiments were used to measure the nitric oxide (NO) levels in CD31+ cells using flow cytometry. GH3 cells were used to measure Ca2+ currents using the whole cell patch clamp technique. STP caused endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxation in mesenteric rings. The endothelial-dependent relaxations in response to STP were markedly reduced by L-NAME (endothelial NO synthase—eNOS—inhibitor), jHydroxocobalamin (NO scavenger, 30 µM) and ODQ (soluble Guanylyl Cyclase—sGC—inhibitor, 10 µM), but were not affected by the inhibition of the formation of vasoactive prostanoids. These results were reinforced by the increased NO levels observed in the amperometric experiments with freshly dispersed CD31+ cells. The endothelium-independent effect appeared to involve the inhibition of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, due to the inhibition of the concentration-response Ca2+ curves in depolarizing solution, the increased relaxation in rings that were pre-incubated with high extracellular KCl (80 mM), and the inhibition of macroscopic Ca2+ currents. The present findings show that the activation of the NO/sGC/cGMP pathway and the inhibition of gated-voltage Ca2+ channels are the mechanisms underlying the effect of STP on mesenteric arteries.