bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angular Dependence of Copper Surface Damage Induced by an Intense Coherent THz Radiation Beam
Authors: Macis Salvatore , Tomarchio Luca , Tofani Silvia , Rezvani S. Javad , Faillace Luigi , Lupi Stefano , Irizawa Akinori , Marcelli Augusto
Published: March 2020

In this work, we show the damage induced by an intense coherent terahertz (THz) beam on copper surfaces. The metallic surface was irradiated by multiple picosecond THz pulses generated by the Free Electron Laser (FEL) at the ISIR facility of the Osaka University, reaching an electric field on the sample surface up to ~4 GV/m. No damage occurs at normal incidence, while images and spectroscopic analysis of the surface point out a clear dependence of the damage on the incidence angle, the electric field intensity, and polarization of the pulsed THz radiation. Ab initio analysis shows that the damage at high incidence angles could be related to the increase of the absorbance, i.e., to the increase of the temperature around or above 1000 °C. The experimental approach we introduced with multiple fast irradiations represents a new powerful technique useful to test, in a reproducible way, the damage induced by an intense electric gradient on copper and other metallic surfaces in view of future THz-based compact particle accelerators.
A Randomized Study to Determine the Sun Protection Factor of Natural Pterostilbene from Pterocarpus Marsupium
Authors: Majeed Muhammed , Majeed Shaheen , Jain Renuka , Mundkur Lakshmi , Rajalakshmi H. R. , Lad Prachi , Neupane Prakriti
Published: March 2020

Ultraviolet (UV) rays and its harmful effects have always been a concern to skin health. Sunscreen and sunblock prevent the harmful effects of UV radiation on the skin. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is an indication of the sun-protective capacity of an ingredient. There is an ever increasing interest in the cosmetic industry for developing novel functional ingredients from natural sources. The purpose of this study was to determine in-vitro and in vivo SPF of natural 90% pterostilbene extracted from the dried heartwood of Pterocarpus marsupium (Indian Kino). The SPF of purified pterostilbene and a formulation containing 0.4% pterostilbene was determined In Vitro using a UV spectrophotometer. Pterostilbene had an SPF of 21.73 ± 0.06, while the cream formulation had an SPF of 8.84 ± 0.01. The in vivo SPF of the 0.4% pterostilbene cream in humans was found to be 6.2 ± 1.30. Primary skin irritation tests in human subjects showed the formulation was safe and had no irritation potential. Pterostilbene was also found to have significant antioxidant activity as determined by free radical scavenging assays in vitro. These results suggest that natural pterostilbene is an antioxidant and shows SPF value both in-vitro and in the human clinical study and thus could be used as an ingredient in topical sun-protective formulations.
BiEntropy, TriEntropy and Primality
Authors: Croll Grenville
Published: March 2020

The order and disorder of binary representations of the natural numbers < 28 is measured using the BiEntropy function. Significant differences are detected between the primes and the non-primes. The BiEntropic prime density is shown to be quadratic with a very small Gaussian distributed error. The work is repeated in binary using a Monte Carlo simulation of a sample of natural numbers < 232 and in trinary for all natural numbers < 39 with similar but cubic results. We found a significant relationship between BiEntropy and TriEntropy such that we can discriminate between the primes and numbers divisible by six. We discuss the theoretical basis of these results and show how they generalise to give a tight bound on the variance of Pi(x)–Li(x) for all x. This bound is much tighter than the bound given by Von Koch in 1901 as an equivalence for proof of the Riemann Hypothesis. Since the primes are Gaussian due to a simple induction on the binary derivative, this implies that the twin primes conjecture is true. We also provide absolutely convergent asymptotes for the numbers of Fermat and Mersenne primes in the appendices.
Understanding German FDI in Latin America and Asia: A Comparison of GLM Estimators
Authors: Camarero Mariam , Montolio Laura , Tamarit Cecilio
Published: March 2020

The growth of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in developing countries over the last decade has attracted an intense academic and policy-oriented interest for its determinants. Despite the gravity model being considered a useful tool to approximate bilateral FDI flows, the literature has seen a growing debate in relation to its econometric specification, so that which is the best estimator for the gravity equation is far from conclusive. This paper examines the determinants of German outward FDI in Latin America and Asia for the period 1996-2012 by evaluating the performance of alternative Generalized Linear Model (GLM) estimators. Our findings indicate that Negative Binomial Pseudo Maximum Likelihood (NBPML) is the estimator best matched to our data, followed by Gamma Pseudo Maximum Likelihood (GPML). Furthermore, German FDI in Latin America is found to be predominantly vertical in nature, whereas that in Asia is mainly market-seeking.
Adequate Iodine Intake among Young Adults in Jiangsu Province, China Despite a Medium Iodine Knowledge Score
Authors: Jin Yifan , Luo Xiaoqin , Ma Zheng Feei , Dong Zihan , Carciofo Richard , Li Xinli , Skeaff Sheila
Published: March 2020

Lack of iodine knowledge might be a risk factor for inadequate iodine intake in populations. Therefore, we aimed to determine the relationship between iodine knowledge and intake in young Chinese adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Suzhou, China. Iodine intake was assessed using a validated 33-item iodine-specific Chinese food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and iodine knowledge was determined using a Chinese iodine knowledge questionnaire. A total of 150 participants (mean age 20.3 years) completed the study. The median iodine intake plus iodized salt was 260 μg/d, indicating iodine sufficiency (>150 µg/d). The median iodine knowledge score was 16/24, suggesting a medium level of knowledge. The majority of participants correctly recognized fish and seafood (95%) and iodized salt (83%) as the most important dietary iodine sources. After adjusting for age and sex, studying in the science cluster and having received iodine education were the predictors of having a higher iodine knowledge score, with adjusted odd ratios (OR) of 4.33 (1.49, 12.61) and 2.73 (1.21, 6.14), respectively. In conclusion, young Chinese adults had an adequate iodine intake despite a medium iodine knowledge score. This study provides support that iodine fortification in China has been successful, but further research is required to more fully substantiate this finding.
Decomposing the Interactions between Fire Severity and Canopy Fuel Structure Using Multi-Temporal, Active, and Passive Remote Sensing Approaches
Authors: Skowronski Nicholas S. , Gallagher Michael R. , Warner Timothy A.
Published: March 2020

Within the realms of both wildland and prescribed fire, an understanding of how fire severity and forest structure interact is critical for improving fuels treatment effectiveness, quantifying the ramifications of wildfires, and improving fire behavior modeling. We integrated high resolution estimates of fire severity with multi-temporal airborne laser scanning data to examine the role that various fuel loading, canopy shape, and other variables had on predicting fire severity for a complex of prescribed fires and one wildfire and how three-dimensional fuels changed as a result of these fires. Fuel loading characteristics were widely variable, and fires were ignited using a several techniques (heading, flanking, and backing), leading to a large amount of variability in fire behavior and subsequent fire effects. Through our analysis, we found that fire severity was linked explicitly to pre-fire fuel loading and structure, particularly in the three-dimensional distribution of fuels. Fire severity was also correlated with post-fire fuel loading, forest structural heterogeneity, and shifted the diversity and abundance of canopy classes within the landscape. This work demonstrates that the vertical distribution of fuel is an important factor and that subtle difference has defined effects on fire behavior and severity.
Kamenev-Type Asymptotic Criterion of Fourth-Order Delay Differential Equation
Authors: Bazighifan Omar
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for a Kamenev-type oscillation criterion of a fourth order differential equation of the form r 3 t r 2 t r 1 t y ′ t ′ ′ ′ + q t f y σ t = 0 , where t ≥ t 0 . The results presented here complement some of the known results reported in the literature. Moreover, the importance of the obtained conditions is illustrated via some examples.
The Role of ‘Digitalization’ in German Sustainability Bank Reporting
Authors: Diener Florian , Špaček Miroslav
Published: March 2020

The financial services sector, particularly with respect to today’s banking industry, is aiming to make a digital transition. Sustainable reporting is a holistic new reporting approach in banking and has only become partially mandatory for the sector. Thus, this paper makes a contribution to the current analysis approach and further development of the German Sustainability Code as well as associated legal approaches. It concerns the assessment of mandatory sustainable reporting in the light of constantly changing market conditions and stricter legal requirements for stakeholder data responsibility. In specific, it focuses on a digital evolving business environment and is intended to provide an insight into the perception of the topic of digitalization in the banking sector. The assessment is based on the structure of the German Sustainability Code. Based on 113 bank reports, a multiple regression analysis of 1410 codings of the keyword ‘digital’ is carried out. The results show that banks partly and not fully address digital issues in their reporting. It transpires that the emphasis is on seven criteria, while social elements are totally ignored. The paper shows a structural inequality within sustainable bank reporting with regard to digitalization. It also shows that issues are not adequately addressed and covered in legal reporting standards and that the provision of information to stakeholders on specific issues is largely undefined.
A Link between Genetic Disorders and Cellular Impairment, Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Reveal the Functional Consequences of Copy Number Variations in the Central Nervous System—A Close Look at Chromosome 15
Authors: Casamassa Alessia , Ferrari Daniela , Gelati Maurizio , Carella Massimo , Vescovi Angelo Luigi , Rosati Jessica
Published: March 2020

Recent cutting-edge human genetics technology has allowed us to identify copy number variations (CNVs) and has provided new insights for understanding causative mechanisms of human diseases. A growing number of studies show that CNVs could be associated with physiological mechanisms linked to evolutionary trigger, as well as to the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disease and mental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, intellectual disabilities or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Their incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity make diagnosis difficult and hinder comprehension of the mechanistic bases of these disorders. Additional elements such as co-presence of other CNVs, genomic background and environmental factors are involved in determining the final phenotype associated with a CNV. Genetically engineered animal models are helpful tools for understanding the behavioral consequences of CNVs. However, the genetic background and the biology of these animal model systems have sometimes led to confusing results. New cellular models obtained through somatic cellular reprogramming technology that produce induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human subjects are being used to explore the mechanisms involved in the pathogenic consequences of CNVs. Considering the vast quantity of CNVs found in the human genome, we intend to focus on reviewing the current literature on the use of iPSCs carrying CNVs on chromosome 15, highlighting advantages and limits of this system with respect to mouse model systems.
Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Composite Scaffold for Simultaneous Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Dental Implant Installation
Authors: Jeong Hun-Jin , Gwak So-Jung , Seo Kyoung Duck , Lee SaYa , Yun Jeong-Ho , Cho Young-Sam , Lee Seung-Jae
Published: March 2020

Dental implant surgeries involve the insertion of implant fixtures into alveolar bones to replace missing teeth. When the availability of alveolar bone at the surgical site is insufficient, bone graft particles are filled in the insertion site for successful bone reconstruction. Bone graft particles induce bone regeneration over several months at the insertion site. Subsequently, implant fixtures can be inserted at the recipient site. Thus, conventional dental implant surgery is performed in several steps, which in turn increases the treatment period and cost involved. Therefore, to reduce surgical time and minimize treatment costs, a novel hybrid scaffold filled with bone graft particles that could be combined with implant fixtures is proposed. This scaffold is composed of a three-dimensionally (3D) printed polycaprolactone (PCL) frame and osteoconductive ceramic materials such as hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP). Herein, we analyzed the porosity, internal microstructure, and hydrophilicity of the hybrid scaffold. Additionally, Saos-2 cells were used to assess cell viability and proliferation. Two types of control scaffolds were used (a 3D printed PCL frame and a hybrid scaffold without HA/β-TCP particles) for comparison, and the fabricated hybrid scaffold was verified to retain osteoconductive ceramic particles without losses. Moreover, the fabricated hybrid scaffold had high porosity and excellent microstructural interconnectivity. The in vitro Saos-2 cell experiments revealed superior cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase assay results for the hybrid scaffold than the control scaffold. Hence, the proposed hybrid scaffold is a promising candidate for minimizing cost and duration of dental implant surgery.
Altered Structural Expression and Enzymatic Activity Parameters in Quiescent Ulcerative Colitis: Are These Potential Normalization Criteria?
Authors: Kjærgaard Sebastian , Damm Morten M. B. , Chang Joan , Riis Lene B. , Rasmussen Hanne B. , Hytting-Andreasen Rasmus , Krug Susanne M. , Schulzke Jörg-Dieter , Bindslev Niels , Hansen Mark Berner
Published: March 2020

Mucosal healing determined by endoscopy is currently the remission standard for ulcerative colitis (UC). However, new criteria for remission are emerging, such as histologic normalization, which appears to correlate better to the risk of relapse. Here, we study mucosal healing on a molecular and functional level in quiescent UC. We obtained endoscopic biopsies from 33 quiescent UC patients and from 17 controls. Histology was assessed using Geboes score. Protein and mRNA levels were evaluated for the tight junction proteins claudin-2, claudin-4, occludin, and tricellulin, as well as Cl−/HCO3− exchanger DRA, and cyclo-oxygenase enzymes (COX-1, COX-2). The mucosal activity of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes was assessed in modified Ussing chambers, measuring electrogenic ion transport (short-circuit current, SCC). Chronic inflammation was present in most UC patients. The protein level of claudin-4 was reduced, while mRNA-levels of claudin-2 and claudin-4 were upregulated in UC patients. Surprisingly, the mRNA level of COX-1 was downregulated, but was unaltered for COX-2. Basal ion transport was not affected, while COX-2 inhibition induced a two-fold larger decrease in SCC in UC patients. Despite being in clinical and endoscopic remission, quiescent UC patients demonstrated abnormal mucosal barrier properties at the molecular and functional level. Further exploration of mucosal molecular signature for revision of current remission standards should be considered.
The Polymorphic PolyQ Tail Protein of the Mediator Complex, Med15, Regulates the Variable Response to Diverse Stresses
Authors: Gallagher Jennifer E.G. , Ser Suk Lan , Ayers Michael C. , Nassif Casey , Pupo Amaury
Published: March 2020

The Mediator is composed of multiple subunits conserved from yeast to humans and plays a central role in transcription. The tail components are not required for basal transcription but are required for responses to different stresses. While some stresses are familiar, such as heat, desiccation, and starvation, others are exotic, yet yeast can elicit a successful stress response. 4-Methylcyclohexane methanol (MCHM) is a hydrotrope that induces growth arrest in yeast. We found that a naturally occurring variation in the Med15 allele, a component of the Mediator tail, altered the stress response to many chemicals in addition to MCHM. Med15 contains two polyglutamine repeats (polyQ) of variable lengths that change the gene expression of diverse pathways. The Med15 protein existed in multiple isoforms and its stability was dependent on Ydj1, a protein chaperone. The protein level of Med15 with longer polyQ tracts was lower and turned over faster than the allele with shorter polyQ repeats. MCHM sensitivity via variation of Med15 was regulated by Snf1 in a Myc-tag-dependent manner. Tagging Med15 with Myc altered its function in response to stress. Genetic variation in transcriptional regulators magnified genetic differences in response to environmental changes. These polymorphic control genes were master variators.
Primary Human Chondrocytes Affected by Cigarette Smoke—Therapeutic Challenges
Authors: Chen Tao , Ehnert Sabrina , Tendulkar Gauri , Zhu Sheng , Arnscheidt Christian , Aspera-Werz Romina H. , Nussler Andreas K.
Published: March 2020

Although several researchers have attested deleterious effects of smoking to the musculoskeletal system, the association between smoking and the onset of osteoarthritis (OA) remains unclear. Here, we investigate the effect of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on primary human chondrocytes. The present study demonstrates that physiological concentrations of CSE (0.1%–10%) inhibit the viability, proliferation, and matrix formation of chondrocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Significant amounts of free radicals were generated by 10% of CSE and led to cell death. A clinical dosage (4 mg/mL) of dexamethasone (Dex) showed toxic effects on chondrocytes, and the long-time treatment by lower doses (4–400 μg/mL) induced hypertrophic changes in the chondrocytes. To substitute Dex, diclofenac (Dic, 1 μg/mL) and acetaminophen (Ace, 10 μg/mL) were tested and did not worsen the metabolic activity of CSE-exposed chondrocytes. Hyaluronic acid (HA, 5 mg/mL) combined with Dic or Ace significantly inhibited the oxidative stress and enhanced the viability and matrix formation of CSE-exposed chondrocytes. This study shows for the first time that CSE mediates the disruption of cartilage through inducing cell death by increasing oxidative stress, and that this effect is fortified by Dex. The deleterious effects of CSE on chondrocytes could be reversed by treatment with HA combined with first-line analgesic/anti-inflammatory agents.
Identification and Functional Study of Chitin Metabolism and Detoxification-Related Genes in Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Based on Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Shao Zuo-min , Li Yi-jiangcheng , Zhang Xiao-rui , Chu Jie , Ma Jia-hui , Liu Zhi-xiang , Wang Jun , Sheng Sheng , Wu Fu-an
Published: March 2020

Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralididae) is a serious pest in the sericulture industry, which has caused damage and losses in recent years. With the widespread use of insecticides, the insecticide resistance of G. pyloalis has becomes increasingly apparent. In order to find other effective methods to control G. pyloalis, this study performed a transcriptome analysis of the midgut, integument, and whole larvae. Transcriptome data were annotated with KEGG and GO, and they have been shown to be of high quality by RT-qPCR. The different significant categories of differentially expressed genes between the midgut and the integument suggested that the transcriptome data could be used for next analysis. With the exception of Dda9 (GpCDA5), 19 genes were involved in chitin metabolism, most of which had close protein–protein interactions. Among them, the expression levels of 11 genes, including GpCHSA, GpCDA1, GpCDA2, GpCDA4, GPCHT1, GPCHT2a, GPCHT3a, GPCHT7, GpTre1, GpTre2, and GpRtv were higher in the integument than in the midgut, while the expression levels of the last eight genes, including GpCHSB, GpCDA5, GpCHT2b, GpCHT3b, GpCHT-h, GpPAGM, GpNAGK, and GpUAP, were higher in the midgut than in the integument. Moreover, 282 detoxification-related genes were identified and can be divided into 10 categories, including cytochrome P450, glutathione S-transferase, carboxylesterase, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, aquaporin, chloride channel, methoprene-tolerant, serine protease inhibitor, sodium channel, and calcium channel. In order to further study the function of chitin metabolism-related genes, dsRNA injection knocked down the expression of GpCDA1 and GpCHT3a, resulting in the significant downregulation of its downstream genes. These results provide an overview of chitin metabolism and detoxification of G. pyloalis and lay the foundation for the effective control of this pest in the sericulture industry.
Micromechanism of Damage of the Graphite Spheroid in the Nodular Cast Iron During Static Tensile Test
Authors: Warmuzek Małgorzata , Polkowska Adelajda
Published: March 2020

This work was focused on two particular phenomena contributing to a damage process of nodular cast iron under tensile stress: Internal destruction of graphite nodule and debonding at graphite/matrix (G-M) interface. The G-M debonding was analyzed depending on the phase characteristics of the metal matrix and with the increase in the distance of the observation field from the main crack surface. Typical morphological effects of decohesion in the graphite-matrix microregions related to an internal structure of graphite nodule were revealed and classified. The obtained results of the microscopic observations suggest that the path of both types of internal cracks in the graphite nodule passed through areas of weakened cohesion. Detailed microscopic observations allowed revealing some additional phenomena associated with G-M debonding along the G/M interface. In the most ductile of the tested alloys, with ferritic and ausferritic matrix, the G-M debonding was preceded by the formation of a layer of shifted graphene plates in the external envelope of the spheroid. In the alloys of polyphase pearlitic and ausferritic matrix, the revealed morphology of the G-M interface suggests that G-M debonding might be delayed by the interaction with some phase components as cementite lamellae and austenite plates.
Comparison of Prediction Models Applied in Economic Recession and Expansion
Authors: Camska Dagmar , Klecka Jiri
Published: March 2020

As a rule, the economy regularly undergoes various phases, from a recession up to expansion. This paper is focused on models predicting corporate financial distress. Its aim is to analyze impact of individual phases of the economic cycle on final scores of the prediction models. The prediction models may be used for quick, inexpensive evaluation of a corporate financial situation leading to business risk mitigation. The research conducted is drawn from accounting data extracted from the prepaid corporate database, Albertina. The carried-out analysis also highlights and examines industry specifics; therefore, three industry branches are under examination. Enterprises falling under Manufacture of metal products, Machinery, and Construction are categorized into insolvent and healthy entities. In this study, 18 models are selected and then applied to the business data describing recession and expansion. The final scores achieved are summarized by the main descriptive statistics, such as mean, median, and trimmed mean, followed by the absolute difference comparing expansion and recession. The results confirm the expectations, assuming that final scores with higher values describe better corporate financial standing during the expansion phase. Similar results are achieved for both healthy and insolvent enterprises. The paper highlights exceptions and offers possible interpretations. As a conclusion, it is recommended that users need to respect the current phase of the economic cycle when interpreting particular results of the prediction models.
Inventory Routing Problem in Supply Chain of Perishable Products under Cost Uncertainty
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Habib Muhammad Salman , Hussain Amjad , Ahmed Naveed , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman M.
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a multi-objective, multi-period inventory routing problem in the supply chain of perishable products under uncertain costs. In addition to traditional objectives of cost and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission minimization, a novel objective of priority index maximization has been introduced in the model. The priority index quantifies the qualitative social aspects, such as coordination, trust, behavior, and long-term relationships among the stakeholders. In a multi-echelon supply chain, the performance of distributor/retailer is affected by the performance of supplier/distributor. The priority index measures the relative performance index of each player within the supply chain. The maximization of priority index ensures the achievement of social sustainability in the supply chain. Moreover, to model cost uncertainty, a time series integrated regression fuzzy method is developed. This research comprises of three phases. In the first phase, a mixed-integer multi-objective mathematical model while considering the cost uncertainty has been formulated. In order to determine the parameters for priority index objective function, a two-phase fuzzy inference process is used and the rest of the objectives (cost and GHG) have been modeled mathematically. The second phase involves the development of solution methodology. In this phase, to solve the mathematical model, a modified interactive multi-objective fuzzy programming has been employed that incorporates experts’ preferences for objective satisfaction based on their experiences. Finally, in the third phase, a case study of the supply chain of surgical instruments is presented as an example. The results of the case provide optimal flow of products from suppliers to hospitals and the optimal sequence of the visits of different vehicle types that minimize total cost, GHG emissions, and maximizes the priority index.
Domain of Existence and Uniqueness for Nonlinear Hammerstein Integral Equations
Authors: Singh Sukhjit , Martínez Eulalia , Kumar Abhimanyu , Gupta D. K.
Published: March 2020

In this work, we performed an study about the domain of existence and uniqueness for an efficient fifth order iterative method for solving nonlinear problems treated in their infinite dimensional form. The hypotheses for the operator and starting guess are weaker than in the previous studies. We assume omega continuity condition on second order Fréchet derivative. This fact it is motivated by showing different problems where the nonlinear operators that define the equation do not verify Lipschitz and Hölder condition; however, these operators verify the omega condition established. Then, the semilocal convergence balls are obtained and the R-order of convergence and error bounds can be obtained by following thee main theorem. Finally, we perform a numerical experience by solving a nonlinear Hammerstein integral equations in order to show the applicability of the theoretical results by obtaining the existence and uniqueness balls.
Asymptotic Stability of the Solutions of Neutral Linear Fractional System with Nonlinear Perturbation
Authors: Zahariev Andrey , Kiskinov Hristo
Published: March 2020

In this article existence and uniqueness of the solutions of the initial problem for neutral nonlinear differential system with incommensurate order fractional derivatives in Caputo sense and with piecewise continuous initial function is proved. A formula for integral presentation of the general solution of a linear autonomous neutral system with several delays is established and used for the study of the stability properties of a neutral autonomous nonlinear perturbed linear fractional differential system. Natural sufficient conditions are found to ensure that from global asymptotic stability of the zero solution of the linear part of a nonlinearly perturbed system it follows global asymptotic stability of the zero solution of the whole nonlinearly perturbed system.
Selenium, Zinc, and Manganese Status in Pregnant Women and Its Relation to Maternal and Child Complications
Authors: Iqbal Sehar , Ali Inayat , Rust Petra , Kundi Michael , Ekmekcioglu Cem
Published: March 2020

Micronutrients, as essential components of prenatal care, are important to reduce the risk for maternal and child morbidity and mortality by lowering pregnancy-related complications. The present study aimed to investigate the status of the trace elements, i.e., selenium, zinc, and manganese in pregnant and non-pregnant women from a developing country and to evaluate its relationship with maternal and child complications. Selenium, zinc, and manganese concentrations were measured in the blood serum of 80 pregnant women and compared with 40 non-pregnant healthy controls. The quantitative analyses of trace elements were performed by using the inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method. The information about the dietary habits of the study participants was recorded by using a food frequency questionnaire. The results showed significant lower selenium and zinc levels in pregnant women as compared to the controls (2.26 ± 1.09 vs. 2.76 ± 1.15 µmol/L, p = 0.031; 21.86 ± 7.21 vs. 29.54 ± 7.62 µmol/L, p < 0.001) respectively, with no difference in manganese concentrations (1.40 ± 0.09 vs.1.38 ± 0.09 log10 nmol/L, p = 0.365). Regarding maternal and child complications, higher manganese levels were associated with an increased odds ratio for maternal complications (OR = 3.175, CI (95%) 1.631−6.181; p = 0.038). Consumption of dairy products was associated with lower selenium and manganese values. Pregnant women showed a lower serum selenium and zinc status, and in addition elevated serum manganese concentrations, which might be associated with a higher risk for maternal pregnancy/birth complications, although more studies are necessary to evaluate this association.
Cystatin C: A Primer for Pharmacists
Authors: Teaford Hilary R. , Barreto Jason N. , Vollmer Kathryn J. , Rule Andrew D. , Barreto Erin F.
Published: March 2020

Pharmacists are at the forefront of dosing and monitoring medications eliminated by or toxic to the kidney. To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these medications, accurate measurement of kidney function is paramount. The mainstay of kidney assessment for drug dosing and monitoring is serum creatinine (SCr)-based estimation equations. Yet, SCr has known limitations including its insensitivity to underlying changes in kidney function and the numerous non-kidney factors that are incompletely accounted for in equations to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Serum cystatin C (cysC) is a biomarker that can serve as an adjunct or alternative to SCr to evaluate kidney function for drug dosing. Pharmacists must be educated about the strengths and limitations of cysC prior to applying it to medication management. Not all patient populations have been studied and some evaluations demonstrated large variations in the relationship between cysC and GFR. Use of eGFR equations incorporating cysC should be reserved for drug management in scenarios with demonstrated outcomes, including to improve pharmacodynamic target attainment for antibiotics or reduce drug toxicity. This article provides an overview of cysC, discusses evidence around its use in medication dosing and in special populations, and describes practical considerations for application and implementation.
Exploring Medication Adherence Using M-Health: A Study from Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Ribas Marta , Lourenço Ana Mafalda , Cavaco Afonso
Published: March 2020

Background: Pharmacy practice includes the handling of human and animal medication. Amongst veterinary pharmaceutical treatments, the management of Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD), a chronic skin condition affecting 10%–15% of the canine population, is complex and demanding. Medication regimens are tailored to each animal and their owner or caregiver. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a mobile health (m-health) application (Petable®) to support the medication adherence in CAD treatment and clinical improvement. Methods: A total of 30 atopic dogs under treatment for CAD and their caregivers were enrolled. Both the dogs’ and owners’ background data were recorded as well as clinical and medication adherence information. This was accomplished by direct observation, clinical files consultation, mobile application, and medication adherence (Medida de Adesão aos Tratamentos—MAT questionnaire) feedback. Results: The overall non-adherence of the sample was 12.6% according to the mobile application, while 60% of caregivers self-scored as adherent according to the MAT. The only significant and positive correlation was between overall adherence and the caregiver’s education. The average degree of pruritus decreased over time and during treatment, independently to the level of m-health app usage. Conclusions: The adherence to chronic treatments may be improved through m-health apps, although further studies are needed to gauge their actual usefulness in supplementing known adherence determinants.
Importance Sampling in the Presence of PD-LGD Correlation
Authors: Metzler Adam , Scott Alexandre
Published: March 2020

This paper seeks to identify computationally efficient importance sampling (IS) algorithms for estimating large deviation probabilities for the loss on a portfolio of loans. Related literature typically assumes that realised losses on defaulted loans can be predicted with certainty, i.e., that loss given default (LGD) is non-random. In practice, however, LGD is impossible to predict and tends to be positively correlated with the default rate and the latter phenomenon is typically referred to as PD-LGD correlation (here PD refers to probability of default, which is often used synonymously with default rate). There is a large literature on modelling stochastic LGD and PD-LGD correlation, but there is a dearth of literature on using importance sampling to estimate large deviation probabilities in those models. Numerical evidence indicates that the proposed algorithms are extremely effective at reducing the computational burden associated with obtaining accurate estimates of large deviation probabilities across a wide variety of PD-LGD correlation models that have been proposed in the literature.
Magnetic and Electric Energy Harvesting Technologies in Power Grids: A Review
Authors: Yang Feng , Du Lin , Yu Huizong , Huang Peilin
Published: March 2020

With the development of intelligent modern power systems, real-time sensing and monitoring of system operating conditions have become one of the enabling technologies. Due to their flexibility, robustness and broad serviceable scope, wireless sensor networks have become a promising candidate for achieving the condition monitoring in a power grid. In order to solve the problematic power supplies of the sensors, energy harvesting (EH) technology has attracted increasing research interest. The motivation of this paper is to investigate the profiles of harnessing the electric and magnetic fields and facilitate the further application of energy scavenging techniques in the context of power systems. In this paper, the fundamentals, current status, challenges, and future prospects of the two most applicable EH methods in the grid—magnetic field energy harvesting (MEH) and electric field energy harvesting (EEH) are reviewed. The characteristics of the magnetic field and electric field under typical scenarios in power systems is analyzed first. Then the MEH and EEH are classified and reviewed respectively according to the structural difference of energy harvesters, which have been further evaluated based on the comparison of advantages and disadvantages for the future development trend.
Enhancement of RGB-D Image Alignment Using Fiducial Markers
Authors: Madeira Tiago , Oliveira Miguel , Dias Paulo
Published: March 2020

Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction methods generate a 3D textured model from the combination of data from several captures. As such, the geometrical transformations between these captures are required. The process of computing or refining these transformations is referred to as alignment. It is often a difficult problem to handle, in particular due to a lack of accuracy in the matching of features. We propose an optimization framework that takes advantage of fiducial markers placed in the scene. Since these markers are robustly detected, the problem of incorrect matching of features is overcome. The proposed procedure is capable of enhancing the 3D models created using consumer level RGB-D hand-held cameras, reducing visual artefacts caused by misalignments. One problem inherent to this solution is that the scene is polluted by the markers. Therefore, a tool was developed to allow their removal from the texture of the scene. Results show that our optimization framework is able to significantly reduce alignment errors between captures, which results in visually appealing reconstructions. Furthermore, the markers used to enhance the alignment are seamlessly removed from the final model texture.
Estimating and Analyzing Long-Term Multi-GNSS Inter-System Bias Based on Uncombined PPP
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liu Changjian , Xiao Guorui , Zhang Xi , Feng Xu
Published: March 2020

With the development of precise positioning with multi-GNSS, the inter-system bias (ISB) has become an issue that cannot be ignored. ISB is introduced from the differences among satellite reference clocks and different receiver hardware delay biases. To analyze the characteristics of multi-GNSS ISB, the precise point positioning (PPP) with full-rank uncombined model was derived for GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, while the GPS receiver clock was selected as the reference. In addition, a recommended ISB parameter processing model was adopted. Data of 28-days from the Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) station was used to estimate and analyze the ISB parameters. Based on a statistical analysis of the acquired data, results demonstrate that: (a) The rms of multi-GNSS PPP positional bias can reach 4.6 mm, 3.4 mm and 8.5 mm for E, N and U directions, respectively, which guarantees the reliability and accuracy of the ISB parameter solution. (b) The intra-day ISB time series of the three groups is relatively stable with standard deviations less than 0.6 ns. The ISB parameters between the GALILEO and GPS system are the most stable and the standard deviation was the smallest, at about 0.37 ns, which may be related to the good signal quality of the GALILEO system. (c) The mean of the single-day solution of the ISB parameter is not stable and the amplitude of the jump can be up to 60 ns. However, each station shows a similar variation for the same ISB parameter on the same day. The situation is independent of the type of receiver and antenna; however, it may be affected by the satellite reference clock of different systems. (d) There is a clear relationship between the ISB parameters and receiver types.
Analysis of the Errors Caused by Disturbed Multimode Fibers in the Interferometer with Fiber-Coupled Delivery
Authors: Xia Yizhou , Zhang Ming , Zhu Yu , Ye Weinan , Yang Fuzhong , Wang Leijie
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the errors of the displacement measurement interferometer with multi-mode fiber-coupled delivery are analyzed when the fibers are disturbed. Simulation results show that the characteristic frequency of the measurement error is consistent with that of disturbance, and the error has higher order frequency components. The experiments are designed for the effect of fringe contrast on the measurement error. The experimental results show that the measurement error is rather sensitive to the interference angle between the measurement arm and the reference arm in the multi-mode fibers, but not to the irradiance ratio of the measurement arm and the reference arm. In an interferometer with multimode fiber, the interference angle between the measurement arm and the reference arm needs to be restricted. This conclusion provides a theoretical basis for designing an interferometer measurement system with interference angle that is adaptive to wider application.
Prototype of Nitro Compound Vapor and Trace Detector Based on a Capacitive MIS Sensor
Authors: Samotaev Nikolay , Litvinov Artur , Etrekova Maya , Oblov Konstantin , Filipchuk Dmitrii , Mikhailov Alexey
Published: March 2020

A prototype of a nitro compound vapor and trace detector, which uses the pyrolysis method and a capacitive gas sensor based on the metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) structure type Pd–SiO2–Si, was developed and manufactured. It was experimentally established that the detection limit of trinitrotoluene trace for the detector prototype is 1 × 10−9 g, which corresponds to concentration from 10−11 g/cm3 to 10−12 g/cm3. The prototype had a response time of no more than 30 s. The possibility of further improving the characteristics of the prototype detector by reducing the overall dimensions and increasing the sensitivity of the MIS sensors is shown.
Finite Element Analysis of Interface Dependence on Nanomechanical Sensing
Authors: Minami Kosuke , Yoshikawa Genki
Published: March 2020

Nanomechanical sensors and their arrays have been attracting significant attention for detecting, discriminating and identifying target analytes. The sensing responses can be partially explained by the physical properties of the receptor layers coated on the sensing elements. Analytical solutions of nanomechanical sensing are available for a simple cantilever model including the physical parameters of both a cantilever and a receptor layer. These analytical solutions generally rely on the simple structures, such that the sensing element and the receptor layer are fully attached at their boundary. However, an actual interface in a real system is not always fully attached because of inhomogeneous coatings with low affinity to the sensor surface or partial detachments caused by the exposure to some analytes, especially with high concentration. Here, we study the effects of such macroscopic interfacial structures, including partial attachments/detachments, for static nanomechanical sensing, focusing on a Membrane-type Surface stress Sensor (MSS), through finite element analysis (FEA). We simulate various macroscopic interfacial structures by changing the sizes, numbers and positions of the attachments as well as the elastic properties of receptor layers (e.g., Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio) and evaluate the effects on the sensitivity. It is found that specific interfacial structures lead to efficient sensing responses, providing a guideline for designing the coating films as well as optimizing the interfacial structures for higher sensitivity including surface modification of the substrate.
Ratiometric Strategy for Electrochemical Sensing of Carbaryl Residue in Water and Vegetable Samples
Authors: Zhang Min , Zhang Zeyuan , Yang Yanjing , Zhang Yi , Wang Yufei , Chen Xinyi
Published: March 2020

Accurate analysis of pesticide residue in real samples is essential for food safety and environmental protection. However, a traditional electrochemical sensor based on single-signal output is easily affected by background noise, environmental conditions, electrode diversity, and a complex matrix of samples, leading to extremely low accuracy. Hence, in this paper, a ratiometric strategy based on dual-signal output was adopted to build inner correction for sensing of widely-used carbaryl (CBL) for the first time. By comparison, Nile blue A (NB) was selected as reference probe, due to its well-defined peak, few effects on the target peak of CBL, and excellent stability. The effects of a derivatization method, technique mode, and pH were also investigated. Then the performance of the proposed ratiometric sensor was assessed in terms of three aspects including the elimination of system noise, electrode deviation and matrix effect. Compared with traditional single-signal sensor, the ratiometric sensor showed a much better linear correlation coefficient (r > 0.99), reproducibility (RSD < 10%), and limit of detection (LOD = 1.0 μM). The results indicated the introduction of proper reference probe could ensure the interdependence of target and reference signal on the same sensing environment, thus inner correction was fulfilled, which provided a promising tool for accurate analysis.
A Camera Sensors-Based System to Study Drug Effects on In Vitro Motility: The Case of PC-3 Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Comes Maria Colomba , Mencattini Arianna , Di Giuseppe Davide , Filippi Joanna , D’Orazio Michele , Casti Paola , Corsi Francesca , Ghibelli Lina , Di Natale Corrado , Martinelli Eugenio
Published: March 2020

Cell motility is the brilliant result of cell status and its interaction with close environments. Its detection is now possible, thanks to the synergy of high-resolution camera sensors, time-lapse microscopy devices, and dedicated software tools for video and data analysis. In this scenario, we formulated a novel paradigm in which we considered the individual cells as a sort of sensitive element of a sensor, which exploits the camera as a transducer returning the movement of the cell as an output signal. In this way, cell movement allows us to retrieve information about the chemical composition of the close environment. To optimally exploit this information, in this work, we introduce a new setting, in which a cell trajectory is divided into sub-tracks, each one characterized by a specific motion kind. Hence, we considered all the sub-tracks of the single-cell trajectory as the signals of a virtual array of cell motility-based sensors. The kinematics of each sub-track is quantified and used for a classification task. To investigate the potential of the proposed approach, we have compared the achieved performances with those obtained by using a single-trajectory paradigm with the scope to evaluate the chemotherapy treatment effects on prostate cancer cells. Novel pattern recognition algorithms have been applied to the descriptors extracted at a sub-track level by implementing features, as well as samples selection (a good teacher learning approach) for model construction. The experimental results have put in evidence that the performances are higher when a further cluster majority role has been considered, by emulating a sort of sensor fusion procedure. All of these results highlighted the high strength of the proposed approach, and straightforwardly prefigure its use in lab-on-chip or organ-on-chip applications, where the cell motility analysis can be massively applied using time-lapse microscopy images.