bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA-G: A New Immune Checkpoint in Cancer?
Authors: Krijgsman Daniëlle , Roelands Jessica , Hendrickx Wouter , Bedognetti Davide , Kuppen Peter J. K.
Published: June 2020

Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), known as a central protein in providing immune tolerance to the fetus in pregnant women, is also studied for a possible role in tumor development. Many studies have claimed HLA-G as a new immune checkpoint in cancer. Therefore, HLA-G and its receptors might be targets for immune checkpoint blockade in cancer immunotherapy. In order to substantiate that HLA-G is indeed an immune checkpoint in cancer, two important questions need to be answered: (1) To what extent is HLA-G expressed in the tumor by cancer cells? and (2) What is the function of HLA-G in cancer immune evasion? In this review, we discuss these questions. We agree that HLA-G is a potentially new immune checkpoint in cancer, but additional evidence is required to show the extent of intra-tumor and inter-tumor expression. These studies should focus on tumor expression patterns of the seven different HLA-G isoforms and of the receptors for HLA-G. Furthermore, specific roles for the different HLA-G isoforms should be established.
Proton Leakage Is Sensed by IM30 and Activates IM30-Triggered Membrane Fusion
Authors: Siebenaller Carmen , Junglas Benedikt , Lehmann Annika , Hellmann Nadja , Schneider Dirk
Published: June 2020

The inner membrane-associated protein of 30 kDa (IM30) is crucial for the development and maintenance of the thylakoid membrane system in chloroplasts and cyanobacteria. While its exact physiological function still is under debate, it has recently been suggested that IM30 has (at least) a dual function, and the protein is involved in stabilization of the thylakoid membrane as well as in Mg2+-dependent membrane fusion. IM30 binds to negatively charged membrane lipids, preferentially at stressed membrane regions where protons potentially leak out from the thylakoid lumen into the chloroplast stroma or the cyanobacterial cytoplasm, respectively. Here we show in vitro that IM30 membrane binding, as well as membrane fusion, is strongly increased in acidic environments. This enhanced activity involves a rearrangement of the protein structure. We suggest that this acid-induced transition is part of a mechanism that allows IM30 to (i) sense sites of proton leakage at the thylakoid membrane, to (ii) preferentially bind there, and to (iii) seal leaky membrane regions via membrane fusion processes.
Superconducting Accelerator Magnets Based on High-Temperature Superconducting Bi-2212 Round Wires
Authors: Shen Tengming , Garcia Fajardo Laura
Published: June 2020

Superconducting magnets are an invaluable tool for scientific discovery, energy research, and medical diagnosis. To date, virtually all superconducting magnets have been made from two Nb-based low-temperature superconductors (Nb-Ti with a superconducting transition temperature Tc of 9.2 K and Nb3Sn with a Tc of 18.3 K). The 8.33 T Nb-Ti accelerator dipole magnets of the large hadron collider (LHC) at CERN enabled the discovery of the Higgs Boson and the ongoing search for physics beyond the standard model of high energy physics. The 12 T class Nb3Sn magnets are key to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) Tokamak and to the high-luminosity upgrade of the LHC that aims to increase the luminosity by a factor of 5–10. In this paper, we discuss opportunities with a high-temperature superconducting material Bi-2212 with a Tc of 80–92 K for building more powerful magnets for high energy circular colliders. The development of a superconducting accelerator magnet could not succeed without a parallel development of a high performance conductor. We will review triumphs of developing Bi-2212 round wires into a magnet grade conductor and technologies that enable them. Then, we will discuss the challenges associated with constructing a high-field accelerator magnet using Bi-2212 wires, especially those dipoles of 15–20 T class with a significant value for future physics colliders, potential technology paths forward, and progress made so far with subscale magnet development based on racetrack coils and a canted-cosine-theta magnet design that uniquely addresses the mechanical weaknesses of Bi-2212 cables. Additionally, a roadmap being implemented by the US Magnet Development Program for demonstrating high-field Bi-2212 accelerator dipole technologies is presented.
Abnormalities on Perfusion CT and Intervention for Intracranial Hypertension in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Cooper Shannon , Bendinelli Cino , Bivard Andrew , Parsons Mark , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: June 2020

The role of invasive intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (STBI) remain unclear. Perfusion computed tomography (CTP) provides crucial information about the cerebral perfusion status in these patients. We hypothesised that CTP abnormalities would be associated with the severity of intracranial hypertension (ICH). To investigate this hypothesis, twenty-eight patients with STBI and ICP monitors were investigated with CTP within 48 h from admission. Treating teams were blind to these results. Patients were divided into five groups based on increasing intervention required to control ICH and were compared. Group I required no intervention above routine sedation, group II required a single first tier intervention, group III required multiple different first-tier interventions, group IV required second-tier medical therapy and group V required second-tier surgical therapy. Analysis of the results showed demographics and injury severity did not differ among groups. In group I no patients showed CTP abnormality, while patients in all other groups had abnormal CTP (p = 0.003). Severe ischaemia observed on CTP was associated with increasing intervention for ICH. This study, although limited by small sample size, suggests that CTP abnormalities are associated with the need to intervene for ICH. Larger scale assessment of our results is warranted to potentially avoid unnecessary invasive procedures in head injury patients.
The Clinical Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Knee Disorders and Surgery—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Trams Ewa , Kulinski Krzysztof , Kozar-Kaminska Katarzyna , Pomianowski Stanislaw , Kaminski Rafal
Published: June 2020

In recent years, the interest in biological treatment of knee lesions has increased, especially the application of platelet-rich plasma is of particular note. The number of articles evaluating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) efficacy in the recovery of knee disorders and during knee surgery has exponentially increased over the last decade. A systematic review with meta-analyses was performed by assessing selected studies of local PRP injections to the knee joint. The study was completed in accordance with 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. A multistep search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Clinicaltrials.gov was performed to identify studies on knee surgery and knee lesion treatment with PRP. Of the 4004 articles initially identified, 357 articles focusing on knee lesions were selected and, consequently, only 83 clinical trials were analyzed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool to evaluate risk. In total, seven areas of meta-analysis reported a positive effect of PRP. Among them, 10 sub-analyses demonstrated significant differences in favor of PRP when compared to the control groups (p < 0.05). This study showed the positive effects of PRP, both on the recovery of knee disorders and during knee surgery; however further prospective and randomized studies with a higher number of subjects and with lower biases are needed.
Influence of the Acoustic Cover of the Modular Expansion Joint on the Acoustic Climate in the Bridge Structure Surroundings
Authors: Bohatkiewicz Janusz , Jukowski Michał , Hałucha Maciej , Dębiński Marcin
Published: June 2020

The noise generated at the interface between the wheels of vehicles and the road surface is well recognized in the literature worldwide. Many publications describe the phenomenon of reducing this kind of impact by silent road surfaces. A specific type of this noise is the sound generated by vehicles passing over the expansion joints of bridge structures. Due to the impulsive nature of this sound, it is very onerous for people living in the close vicinity of bridge structures. The passage of vehicles over expansion joints causes the formation of vibrations that are transmitted to the structural elements of bridge structures, which may cause the formation of the material sounds (especially arduous in the case of bridges with steel elements). An attempt to reduce this impact was made by making a prototype acoustic cover of the expansion joint on the selected bridge. The paper presents the results of research on the “in situ” acoustic effectiveness of this cover. Additionally, the noise was modelled in the object surroundings before and after the cover’s application. The acoustic efficiency of the cover in the whole measured frequency range was 5.3 dBA. In the narrower frequency bands (1/3 octave bands), larger sound level reductions were observed. The maximum sound levels measured under the tested dilatation were less than 10.0 dBA lower than the maximum sound levels measured under the reference dilatation.
Flame-Retardant and Sound-Absorption Properties of Composites Based on Kapok Fiber
Authors: Lyu Lihua , Tian Yuanyuan , Lu Jing , Xiong Xiaoqing , Guo Jing
Published: June 2020

In order to improve the utilization rate of kapok fiber, flame-retardant and sound-absorption composites were prepared by the hot pressing method with kapok fiber as the reinforced material, polyε-caprolactone as the matrix material, and magnesium hydroxide as the flame retardant. Then, the effects of hot pressing temperature, hot pressing time, density of composites, mass fraction of kapok fiber, thickness of composites, and air layer thickness on the sound-absorption properties of composites were analyzed, with the average sound absorption coefficient as the index. Under the optimal process parameters, the maximum sound absorption coefficient reached 0.830, the average sound absorption coefficient was 0.520, and the sound-absorption band was wide. Thus, the composites belonged to high-efficiency sound-absorbing material. The flame-retardant effect of magnesium hydroxide on the composites was investigated, and the limiting oxygen index could reach 31.5%. Finally, multifunctional composites based on kapok fiber with flame retardant properties, and sound-absorption properties were obtained.
Hydrogel Dressings for the Treatment of Burn Wounds: An Up-To-Date Overview
Authors: Stoica Alexandra Elena , Chircov Cristina , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai
Published: June 2020

Globally, the fourth most prevalent devastating form of trauma are burn injuries. Ideal burn wound dressings are fundamental to facilitate the wound healing process and decrease pain in lower time intervals. Conventional dry dressing treatments, such as those using absorbent gauze and/or absorbent cotton, possess limited therapeutic effects and require repeated dressing changes, which further aggravate patients’ suffering. Contrariwise, hydrogels represent a promising alternative to improve healing by assuring a moisture balance at the burn site. Most studies consider hydrogels as ideal candidate materials for the synthesis of wound dressings because they exhibit a three-dimensional (3D) structure, which mimics the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) of skin in regard to the high-water amount, which assures a moist environment to the wound. There is a wide variety of polymers that have been used, either alone or blended, for the fabrication of hydrogels designed for biomedical applications focusing on treating burn injuries. The aim of this paper is to provide an up-to-date overview of hydrogels applied in burn wound dressings.
Patterns and Factors Associated with Self-Medication among the Pediatric Population in Romania
Authors: Tarciuc Petruța , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Diaconu Camelia Cristina , Paduraru Luminita , Duduciuc Alina , Diaconescu Smaranda
Published: June 2020

Background and objectives: Self-medication is a global phenomenon in both developed and emerging countries. At present, data regarding the practice, patterns, and factors associated with self-medication in Romanian patient groups of various ages and health are relatively scarce. A pilot study that uses a questionnaire was conducted to observe the attitudes as well as the behaviors of a group of Romanian parents related to self-medication, specifically their beliefs and perceived risks of the administration of medicine to their children without medical advice, frequency of self-medications, symptoms, and types of medications most commonly used without medical advice. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire was sent via e-mail or WhatsApp link on a mobile phone using the existing data at the general practitioner’s office together with the protection of data form and the informed consent form; some participants completed the questionnaire when they came for a regular visit at the general practitioner’s office. Of 246 applied questionnaires, we had a rate of responses of 98%. Results: We found a high percentage (70%) of parents who self-medicate their children. The data reveals a significant relation between parents’ beliefs on self-medication and their tendency to administrate drugs to their children without medical advice. A significant relation was also found between the likelihood of parental self-medication for their children and the number of illnesses experienced by their children over the six-month period prior to the survey. Even when parents have a correct understanding of self-medication risks, these are not aligned with actual behavior; therefore, parents continue to administer drugs to their children without medical advice. Conclusions: Our study helps to describe the patterns of parents’ decisions about self-medicating their children and to identify parents who are more predisposed to administering self-medication to their children.
Comparison of WBGTs over Different Surfaces within an Athletic Complex
Authors: Grundstein Andrew , Cooper Earl
Published: June 2020

Many athletic governing bodies are adopting on-site measurement of the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) as part of their heat safety policies. It is well known, however, that microclimatic conditions can vary over different surface types and a question is whether more than one WBGT sensor is needed to accurately capture local environmental conditions. Our study collected matched WBGT data over three commonly used athletic surfaces (grass, artificial turf, and hardcourt tennis) across an athletic complex on the campus of the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Data were collected every 10 min from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. over a four-day period during July 2019. Results indicate that there is no difference in WBGT among the three surfaces, even when considered over morning, midday, and afternoon practice periods. We did observe microclimatic differences in dry-bulb temperature and dewpoint temperature among the sites. Greater dry-bulb and lower dewpoint temperatures occurred over the tennis and artificial turf surfaces compared with the grass field because of reduced evapotranspiration and increase convective transfers of sensible heat over these surfaces. The lack of difference in WBGT among the surfaces is attributed to the counterbalancing influences of the different components that comprise the index. We conclude that, in a humid, subtropical climate over well-watered grass, there is no difference in WBGT among the three athletic surfaces and that, under these circumstances, a single monitoring site can provide representative WBGTs for nearby athletic surfaces.
Mechanically Robust, Softening Shape Memory Polymer Probes for Intracortical Recording
Authors: Stiller Allison , Usoro Joshua , Lawson Jennifer , Araya Betsiti , González-González María , Danda Vindhya , Voit Walter , Black Bryan , Pancrazio Joseph
Published: June 2020

While intracortical microelectrode arrays (MEAs) may be useful in a variety of basic and clinical scenarios, their implementation is hindered by a variety of factors, many of which are related to the stiff material composition of the device. MEAs are often fabricated from high modulus materials such as silicon, leaving devices vulnerable to brittle fracture and thus complicating device fabrication and handling. For this reason, polymer-based devices are being heavily investigated; however, their implementation is often difficult due to mechanical instability that requires insertion aids during implantation. In this study, we design and fabricate intracortical MEAs from a shape memory polymer (SMP) substrate that remains stiff at room temperature but softens to 20 MPa after implantation, therefore allowing the device to be implanted without aids. We demonstrate chronic recordings and electrochemical measurements for 16 weeks in rat cortex and show that the devices are robust to physical deformation, therefore making them advantageous for surgical implementation.
Programmable µChopper Device with On-Chip Droplet Mergers for Continuous Assay Calibration
Authors: Shi Nan , Easley Christopher J.
Published: June 2020

While droplet-based microfluidics is a powerful technique with transformative applications, most devices are passively operated and thus have limited real-time control over droplet contents. In this report, an automated droplet-based microfluidic device with pneumatic pumps and salt water electrodes was developed to generate and coalesce up to six aqueous-in-oil droplets (2.77 nL each). Custom control software combined six droplets drawn from any of four inlet reservoirs. Using our μChopper method for lock-in fluorescence detection, we first accomplished continuous linear calibration and quantified an unknown sample. Analyte-independent signal drifts and even an abrupt decrease in excitation light intensity were corrected in real-time. The system was then validated with homogeneous insulin immunoassays that showed a nonlinear response. On-chip droplet merging with antibody-oligonucleotide (Ab-oligo) probes, insulin standards, and buffer permitted the real-time calibration and correction of large signal drifts. Full calibrations (LODconc = 2 ng mL−1 = 300 pM; LODamt = 5 amol) required <1 min with merely 13.85 nL of Ab-oligo reagents, giving cost-savings 160-fold over the standard well-plate format while also automating the workflow. This proof-of-concept device—effectively a microfluidic digital-to-analog converter—is readily scalable to more droplets, and it is well-suited for the real-time automation of bioassays that call for expensive reagents.
Seasonal Filarial Infections and Their Black Fly Vectors in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand
Authors: Aupalee Kittipat , Saeung Atiporn , Srisuka Wichai , Fukuda Masako , Streit Adrian , Takaoka Hiroyuki
Published: June 2020

The transmission of zoonotic filarial parasites by black flies has so far been reported in the Chiang Mai and Tak provinces, Thailand, and the bites of these infected black flies can cause a rare disease—human zoonotic onchocerciasis. However, species identification of the filarial parasites and their black fly vectors in the Chiang Mai province were previously only based on a morphotaxonomic analysis. In this study, a combined approach of morphotaxonomic and molecular analyses (mitochondrial cox1, 12S rRNA, and nuclear 18S rRNA (SSU HVR-I) genes) was used to clarify the natural filarial infections in female black flies collected by using human and swine baits from two study areas (Ban Lek and Ban Pang Dang) in the Chiang Mai province from March 2018 to January 2019. A total of 805 and 4597 adult females, belonging to seven and nine black fly taxa, were collected from Ban Lek and Ban Pang Dang, respectively. At Ban Lek, four of the 309 adult females of Simulium nigrogilvum were positive for Onchocerca species type I in the hot and rainy seasons. At Ban Pang Dang, five unknown filarial larvae (belonging to the same new species) were detected in Simulium sp. in the S. varicorne species-group and in three species in the S. asakoae species-group in all seasons, and three non-filarial larvae of three different taxa were also found in three females of the S. asakoae species-group. This study is the first to molecularly identify new filarial species and their vector black fly species in Thailand.
Targeting Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells Using Collagen-Binding Chitosan Nanoparticles for siRNA Delivery to Fibrotic Livers
Authors: Azzam Menna , El Safy Sara , Abdelgelil Sarah A. , Weiskirchen Ralf , Asimakopoulou Anastasia , de Lorenzi Federica , Lammers Twan , Mansour Samar , Tammam Salma
Published: June 2020

Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) are the main orchestrators of the fibrotic cascade in inflamed livers, with transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) being the most potent pro-fibrotic cytokine. Hence, aHSCs serve as interesting therapeutic targets. However, drug delivery to aHSCs is hindered by excessive collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and capillarization of liver sinusoids. Chitosan-nanoparticles (CS-NPs) show intrinsic affinity for collagen, holding potential for drug delivery to fibrotic livers. Here, we employed CS-NPs for anti-TGF-β siRNA delivery, promoting delivery into aHSCs via modification with platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta binding peptides. In-vitro experiments using aHSCs demonstrated the association of unmodified CS-NPs to the collagen-rich ECM, with reduced intracellular accumulation. Peptide-modified CS-NPs showed a higher propensity to localize intracellularly; however, this was only the case upon ECM-collagen reduction via collagenase treatment. Peptide-modified CS-NPs were more potent than unmodified CS-NPs in reducing TGF-β expression, implying that while collagen binding promotes liver accumulation, it hinders cell-specific siRNA delivery. In-vivo, CS-NPs successfully accumulated in fibrotic livers via collagen binding. Similar to in-vitro findings, when mice were pretreated with collagenase-loaded CS-NPs, the accumulation of peptide-modified NPs increased. Our findings demonstrate the usefulness of NPs modification with targeting ligands and collagenase treatment for aHSCs targeting and highlight the importance of chitosan–collagen binding in drug delivery to fibrotic diseases.
Ranking Factors of Infant Formula Milk Powder Using Improved Entropy Weight Based on HDT Method and Its Application of Food Safety
Authors: Zhu Qunxiong , Liu Lu
Published: June 2020

Food safety is about everyone’s health. Through risk assessment and early warning of food safety, food-related safety issues can be identified as early as possible and take timely precautions. However, the detection data of food safety are complex and non-linear, so it is necessary to find the relationship and hierarchical representation of factors affecting food safety. This paper presents an improved entropy weight based on Hasse diagram technology (HDT) method to analyze the influencing factors of food safety. The entropy weight method was used to calculate the weight of each factor index, and the relationship matrix was obtained. Then, the data of infant milk powder in China were analyzed hierarchically by the HDT method. Thus, we can obtain the multi-level structure that affects food safety. It provides an effective basis for early warning of food safety, can help government regulators to strengthen management, and urge enterprises to produce food safely.
A Combined Use of TSVD and Tikhonov Regularization for Mass Flux Solution in Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Tianyi , Kusche Jürgen , Shen Yunzhong , Chen Qiujie
Published: June 2020

Limited by the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE Follow-On (GRACE-FO) measurement principle and sensors, the spatial resolution of mass flux solutions is about 2–3° in mid-latitudes at monthly intervals. To retrieve a mass flux solution in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) with better visual spatial resolution, we combined truncated singular value decomposition (TSVD) and Tikhonov regularization to solve for a mascon modeling. The monthly mass flux parameters resolved at 1° are smoothed to about 2° by truncating the eigen-spectrum of the normal equation (i.e., using the TSVD approach), and then Tikhonov regularization is applied to the truncated normal equation. As a result, the terms beyond the native resolution of GRACE/GRACE-FO data are truncated, and the errors in higher degree and order components are dampened by Tikhonov regularization. In terms of root mean squared errors, the improvements are 27.2% and 12.7% for the combined method over TSVD and Tikhonov regularization, respectively. We confirm a decreasing secular trend with −5.6 ± 4.2 Gt/year for the entire TP and provide maps with 1° resolution from April 2002 to April 2019, generated with the combined TSVD and Tikhonov regularization method.
Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Data and Discrete Fracture Network Models for Improved Rockfall Simulations
Authors: Francioni Mirko , Antonaci Federico , Sciarra Nicola , Robiati Carlo , Coggan John , Stead Doug , Calamita Fernando
Published: June 2020

In this research, we present a new approach to define the distribution of block volumes during rockfall simulations. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are utilized to generate high-accuracy 3D models of the inaccessible SW flank of the Mount Rava (Italy), to provide improved definition of data gathered from conventional geomechanical surveys and to also denote important changes in the fracture intensity. These changes are likely related to the variation of the bedding thickness and to the presence of fracture corridors in fault damage zones in some areas of the slope. The dataset obtained integrating UAV and conventional surveys is then utilized to create and validate two accurate 3D discrete fracture network models, representative of high and low fracture intensity areas, respectively. From these, the ranges of block volumes characterizing the in situ rock mass are extracted, providing important input for rockfall simulations. Initially, rockfall simulations were performed assuming a uniform block volume variation for each release cell. However, subsequent simulations used a more realistic nonuniform distribution of block volumes, based on the relative block volume frequency extracted from discrete fracture network (DFN) models. The results of the simulations were validated against recent rockfall events and show that it is possible to integrate into rockfall simulations a more realistic relative frequency distribution of block volumes using the results of DFN analyses.
Wireless Body Sensor Communication Systems Based on UWB and IBC Technologies: State-of-the-Art and Open Challenges
Authors: Čuljak Ivana , Lučev Vasić Željka , Mihaldinec Hrvoje , Džapo Hrvoje
Published: June 2020

In recent years there has been an increasing need for miniature, low-cost, commercially accessible, and user-friendly sensor solutions for wireless body area networks (WBAN), which has led to the adoption of new physical communication interfaces providing distinctive advantages over traditional wireless technologies. Ultra-wideband (UWB) and intrabody communication (IBC) have been the subject of intensive research in recent years due to their promising characteristics as means for short-range, low-power, and low-data-rate wireless interfaces for interconnection of various sensors and devices placed on, inside, or in the close vicinity of the human body. The need for safe and standardized solutions has resulted in the development of two relevant standards, IEEE 802.15.4 (for UWB) and IEEE 802.15.6 (for UWB and IBC), respectively. This paper presents an in-depth overview of recent studies and advances in the field of application of UWB and IBC technologies for wireless body sensor communication systems.
Sensing HIV Protease and Its Inhibitor Using “Helical Epitope”—Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Chou Chien-Yu , Lin Chung-Yin , Wu Cheng-Hsin , Tai Dar-Fu
Published: June 2020

A helical epitope-peptide (lle85-Gly94) was selected from the α-helix structure of the HIV protease (PR) as the template, which represents an intricate interplay between structure conformation and dimerization. The peptide template was mixed with water, trifluoroethanol (TFE), and acetonitrile (ACN) at a certain ratio to enlarge the helical conformation in the solution for the fabrication of helical epitope-mediated molecularly imprinted polymers (HEMIPs) on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) chip. The template molecules were then removed under equilibrium batch rebinding conditions involving 5% acetic acid/water. The resulting HEMIPs chip exhibited a high affinity toward template peptide HIV PR85–94, His-tagged HIV PR, and HIV PR, with dissociation constants (Kd) as 160, 43.3, and 78.5 pM, respectively. The detection limit of the developed HIV PR85–94 QCM sensor is 0.1 ng/mL. The HEMIPs chip exhibited a high affinity and selectivity to bind HIV PR and subsequently to an inhibitor of HIV PR (nelfinavir). The HIV PR binding site was properly oriented on the HEMIPs-chip to develop a HIV PR/HEMIPs chip, which can effectively bind nelfinavir to establish a sandwich assay. The nelfinavir then attached to the HIV PR/HEMIPs chip, which can be easily removed involving 0.8% acetic acid/water. Therefore, HIV PR/HEMIPs chip can be useful to screen for other HIV PR inhibitors. This technique may improve drug targeting for HIV therapy and also strengthen investigations into other virus assays.
Measurement of In-Plane Motions in MEMS
Authors: Arabi Mohamed , Gopanchuk Mary , Abdel-Rahman Eihab , Yavuz Mustafa
Published: June 2020

We report a technique to measure in-plane and out-of-plane motions of MEMS using typical out-of-plane (single-axis) Laser Doppler Vibrometers (LDVs). The efficacy of the technique is demonstrated by evaluating the in-plane and out-of-plane modal response and frequency response of an interdigitated comb-drive actuator. We also investigate the validity of observing planar modes of vibration outside their dominant plane of motion and find that it leads to erroneous results. Planar modes must be evaluated in their plan of motion.
Adoption of Automatic Warehousing Systems in Logistics Firms: A Technology–Organization–Environment Framework
Authors: Hao Jingjing , Shi Haoming , Shi Victor , Yang Chenchen
Published: June 2020

The adoption of automatic warehousing systems, a type of green technology, has been an emerging trend in the logistics industry. In this study, we develop a conceptual model using a technology–organization–environment framework to investigate the factors which influence logistics firms to adopt green technology. Our model proposes that the adoption of green technology is influenced by perceived advantage, cost, technological turbulence, business partner influence, firm size, firm scope and operational performance. The objective of this study is to identify the conditions, as well as the contributing factors, for the adoption of automatic warehousing systems in logistics firms. Data were collected from 98 firms in China, and structural equation modeling with partial least squares is adopted to analyze the data. The results suggest that high perceived relative advantage, firm size, cost, firm scope, operation performance, technological turbulence and influence of business partners are important factors affecting IT adoption in small businesses. Therefore, decision support should be provided for enterprises from the three aspects of technology, organization and environment to improve the adoption of automatic warehousing systems.
Modeling Viscosity and Density of Ethanol-Diesel-Biodiesel Ternary Blends for Sustainable Environment
Authors: Razzaq Luqman , Farooq Muhammad , Mujtaba M. A. , Sher Farooq , Farhan Muhammad , Hassan Muhammad Tahir , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Atabani A. E. , Kalam M. A. , Imran Muhammad
Published: June 2020

Rapid depletion in fossil fuels, inflation in petroleum prices, and rising energy demand have forced towards alternative transport fuels. Among these alternative fuels, diesel-ethanol and diesel-biodiesel blends gain the most attention due to their quality characteristics and environmentally friendly nature. The viscosity and density of these biodiesel blends are slightly higher than diesel, which is a significant barrier to the commercialization of biodiesel. In this study, the density and viscosity of 30 different ternary biodiesel blends was investigated at 15 °С and 40 °С, respectively. Different density and viscosity models were developed and tested on biodiesel blends soured from different feedstock’s including palm, coconut, soybean, mustard, and calophyllum oils. The prognostic ability and precisions of these developed models was assessed statistically using Absolute Percentage Error (APE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The MAPE of 0.045% and 0.085% for density model and 1.85%, 1.41%, 3.48% and 2.27%, 1.85%, 3.50% for viscosity models were obtained on % volume and % mass basis. These developed correlations are useful for ternary biodiesel blends where alcohols are the part of biodiesel blends. The modeled values of densities and viscosities of ternary blends were significantly comparable with the measured densities and viscosities, which are feasible to avoid the harm of vehicles’ operability.
An Investigation into Stakeholders’ Perception of Smart Campus Criteria: The American University of Sharjah as a Case Study
Authors: Ahmed Vian , Abu Alnaaj Karam , Saboor Sara
Published: June 2020

In recent times, smart cities and sustainable development have drawn significant research attention. Among developed and developing countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been at the forefront in becoming an incubator for smart cities; in particular, it has placed some efforts in the education sector by transforming the traditional campus into a Smart Campus. As the term Smart Campus attracts professionals and academics from multiple disciplines, and the technology keeps intervening in every aspect of life, it becomes inevitable for the Smart Campus to take place and deploy the future vision of smart cities. As a first step to achieve this vision, it is very important to develop a clear understanding of what is a Smart Campus. To date, there is still no clear perception of what a Smart Campus would look like, or what are the main components that can form a Smart Campus. Therefore, the objective of this research is to use the set of comprehensive criteria to identify what it is perceived to be a Smart Campus and evaluate these criteria from the stakeholders’ perception. The main criteria are defined from the literature review, and a case study is conducted on the American University of Sharjah campus stakeholders (faculty, students, management, and Information Technology (IT)) to assess the designated criteria. This exploratory research relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods to perform the analysis, taking into consideration the perceptions of students, faculty, and IT service providers. Finally, having defined and evaluated the criteria that underpin the Smart Campus framework, a set of recommendations are drawn to guide the utilization of a Smart Campus within higher education settings. This research opens the doors for future studies to gain a deeper insight into the type of decisions that need to be made to transform a traditional campus to a Smart Campus.
Sentiment Digitization Modeling for Recommendation System
Authors: Kim Tae-Yeun , Pan Sung Bum , Kim Sung-Hwan
Published: June 2020

As the importance of providing personalized services increases, various studies on personalized recommendation systems are actively being conducted. Among the many methods used for recommendation systems, the most widely used is collaborative filtering. However, this method has lower accuracy because recommendations are limited to using quantitative information, such as user ratings or amount of use. To address this issue, many studies have been conducted to improve the accuracy of the recommendation system by using other types of information, in addition to quantitative information. Although conducting sentiment analysis using reviews is popular, previous studies show the limitation that results of sentiment analysis cannot be directly reflected in recommendation systems. Therefore, this study aims to quantify the sentiments presented in the reviews and reflect the results to the ratings; that is, this study proposes a new algorithm that quantifies the sentiments of user-written reviews and converts them into quantitative information, which can be directly reflected in recommendation systems. To achieve this, the user reviews, which are qualitative information, must first be quantified. Thus, in this study, sentiment scores are calculated through sentiment analysis by using a text mining technique. The data used herein are from movie reviews. A domain-specific sentiment dictionary was constructed, and then based on the dictionary, sentiment scores of the reviews were calculated. The collaborative filtering of this study, which reflected the sentiment scores of user reviews, was verified to demonstrate its higher accuracy than the collaborative filtering using the traditional method, which reflects only user rating data. To overcome the limitations of the previous studies that examined the sentiments of users based only on user rating data, the method proposed in this study successfully enhanced the accuracy of the recommendation system by precisely reflecting user opinions through quantified user reviews. Based on the findings of this study, the recommendation system accuracy is expected to improve further if additional analysis can be performed.
Development of an Evaluation Framework for Smartness and Sustainability in Cities
Authors: Antolín Javier , de Torre Cristina , García-Fuentes Miguel Á. , Pérez Ana , Tomé Isabel , Mirantes María L. , Hoyos Elena
Published: June 2020

The transformation of cities into smarter and more sustainable environments is essential towards achieving the objectives of the decarbonization of the economy. In this sense, holistic strategies are required to design and implement urban regeneration strategies. The EU-funded REMOURBAN project has developed an Urban Regeneration Model which provides the mechanisms to implement more efficiently these processes, integrating technologies, business models, management procedures and evaluation mechanisms, where the evaluation is sought as the main supporting mechanism throughout the various phases of the city transformation process. The framework developed considers two levels of evaluation: city level, to assess both sustainability and smartness of the city as a whole from a comprehensive and integrated perspective, and project level, to provide a clear identification of the impact of implementation of technologies and solutions on three key priority areas (sustainable districts and built environment, sustainable urban mobility and integrated infrastructures and processes) aimed at achieving the city high-level goals. This paper introduces the Urban Regeneration Model and describes the evaluation framework and its implementation in the city of Valladolid (Spain).
Beyond the Sit-In: Public Space Production and Appropriation in Sudan’s December Revolution, 2018
Authors: Bahreldin Ibrahim Z.
Published: June 2020

This article reflects on Khartoum’s sit-in space in front of the Army headquarter in Khartoum during Sudan’s Nile Spring. The article explores the public discourses, activities, and space transformation during the sit-in, which lasted fifty-eight days. Through studying the sit-in, we aim to discuss how the Nile Spring has, or has not, transformed the conception of what a public space is by examining the functions and activities of the sit-in space as a territory of political exercise. The methodology underlying this research includes direct and participant observation, a follow-up of the sit-in space activities on various media sources, a literature review, and interviews. The conclusions drawn by this article show how the sit-in space has challenged the current relationship between public space and the political ideology by providing a new example of what a public space is. The sit-in space succeeded in revolutionizing the understanding of how public spaces should be imagined, designed, appropriated, and managed. This inquiry has disclosed the necessity to rethink current planning and urban design processes that restrict democratic activities in public spaces.
THE USE OF INFORMATION SOURCES AT CARRYING OUT A FORENSIC EXAMINATION OF THE OLD PRINTED EDITIONS OF THE CYRILLIC ALPHABET
Authors: Khodchenko I. , Yudina E. , Koloniuk V.
Published: June 2020

In forensic science is used a full and objective investigation of a crime or the settlement of a civil claim that requires the use of specialized knowledge, in particular, when examining an expert in the printed editions of Cyrillic. The methodological approaches of eminent scholars on the attribution and cultural evaluation of old printed books are still relevant in the study of book publications by forensic experts dealing with art.

The compilation and description of Slavic editions is of great importance both in terms of cultural studies, history, linguistics, engraving, and in terms of the accumulation of some basis for the comparative study of ancient books in forensic studies of ancient printed matter.

Therefore, for completeness, comprehensiveness and objectivity of expert research in forensic and expert examination of ancient printed editions of Cyrillic printing, the use of the didactic, cultural and bibliographic material of several generations of leading scientists is of great importance.
GUNSHOT INJURY: THE ROLE AND PLACE IN THE STRUCTURE OF VIOLENT DEATH, FORENSIC DESCRIPTION OF LETHAL CASES IN THE CITY OF MINSK FOR THE PERIOD 2009-2018
Authors: Husentsov A. , Kilzushov Ie. , Kozlovskyi A. , Lenkovets A.
Published: June 2020

The article sets out the main historical milestones in the development of forensic ballistics, summarizes the literature on the incidence of lethal gunshot injuries in the world, and presents the results of our own study of deaths from gunshot injuries in Minsk from 2009 to 2018. Medical and social laws have been established on the basis of which the forensic medical characteristic of a fatal gunshot injury, compiled average statistical “portraits” of those killed as a result of this type of violent death have been drawn up.

Analysis of the results of the study allows us to come to the following conclusions:

– the results of statistical reports and scientific literature indicate a high level of occurrence of fatal injuries in the structure of violent death in the world, is one of the main areas studied by forensic science and practice in the study of gunshot injuries;

– on the basis of a retrospective study, this forensic medical characteristic of a fatal gunshot injury in Minsk for the period from January 01, 2009 to December 31, 2018. It includes the type of death, gender, age, time of year, time of day, district of the city, place of causing gunshot injuries, presence ethyl alcohol, the place of death, the type of weapon, the type of ammunition, the type and location of the wound;

– the average “portraits” of people who died in Minsk in 2009-2018 were compiled because of this type of violent death.

In the “Expert Conclusion” and the decisions on the appointment of forensic medical examinations for the studied period, information about the possible ricocheting nature of the gunshot injuries was not found. This may be due to the lack of methods for establishing the fact and parameters of the ricochet of the gunshot and testifies to the need for further experimental studies in areas of forensic ballistics.
A novel approach to analyze total amino acids contents of food samples by computational image scanning densitometry
Authors: Uz-Zaman W. , Rehman R. , Zafar J.
Published: June 2020

In the current work, computational image scanning densitometry technique was used instead of conventional and traditional instruments like IC, HPLC, GC and UV/visible spectroscopy for quantification of micro samples of amino acids (lysine hydrochloride, β-alanine, asparagine monohydrate, glutamic acid). The general reaction between locating reagent and amino acid is: This technique has accuracy at the parts per billion level and precision as indicated from percent recovery from sample analysis, which is quite good. Due to certain limits associated with conventional techniques, this technique may be presented as a progressive and important event in the history of evaluation at micro level. Keywords: amino acids, densitometry, micro level.
Comparative removal of naphthalene by adsorption on different sand/bentonite mixtures
Authors: Rennane S. , Bendjaballah-Lalaoui N. , Trari M.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to advance the understanding of naphthalene (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon) adsorption on sand/bentonite mixtures in the context of their use in the lining of waste disposal facilities. Batch adsorption studies were carried out to estimate the adsorption capacities of sand/bentonite mixtures. Different percentages of the bentonite (0% to 12%) in sand/bentonite mixtures were tested. These mixtures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It was found that the mixture with 2% of bentonite adsorbs the highest amount of naphthalene over the whole range of initial naphthalene concentrations studied (Co: 2.5-22 mg L-1); this optimal fraction was therefore selected. The effect of the initial naphthalene concentration, percentage of the bentonite in the sand/bentonite mixture and temperature on the adsorption was investigated. The adsorption isotherms, established for every percentage of bentonite, revealed that the naphthalene adsorption follows a linear Freundlich isotherm for the optimal fraction of bentonite (2%). The kinetic study showed that the process obeys a pseudo-second-order equation model. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°) indicated an endothermic and spontaneous nature of the naphthalene adsorption. The adsorption of naphthalene is more favorable at high temperatures and activation energy (8.263 kJ mol-1) suggests a physical adsorption.

Keywords: Adsorption; Naphthalene; Bentonite; Sand/bentonite mixture.
Comparative study of the methods for the determination of organic carbon and organic matter in soils, compost and sludge
Authors: Angelova V. R. , Akova V. I. , Ivanov K. I.
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to compare the most commonly used methods for the determination of organic carbon (OC) and organic matter (SOM), and evaluate the capability of LOI (loss on ignition method) to estimate OC, using reference soils, compost and sludge as standards. The use of a titrimetric endpoint (adding phosphoric acid prior to titration) is more suitable for assessing the level of organic carbon in soils with low, medium, high and very high content. The use of a photometric endpoint is more appropriate for samples of medium and high carbon content. LOI 400 and LOI 450 may also be used for the determination of samples with a high organic content whereas LOI 450 - in the determination of samples with an average organic content. LOI 450 can be used to evaluate SOC in a wide range of organic matter concentrations (3-55%). Indirect assessment of the organic carbon content or organic matter using a correction coefficient is not very accurate for samples with average organic carbon content.

Keywords: methods, organic carbon, organic matter, certified samples