bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Material screening for two-step thermochemical splitting of H2S using metal sulfide
Authors: Osasuyi Osahon , Al-Ali Khalid , Abu Zahra Mohammad , Palmisano Giovanni , Viet Quang Dang
Published: February 2019

Associated with the rise in energy demand is the increase in the amount of H2S evolved to the environment. H2S is toxic and dangerous to life and the environment, thus, the need to develop efficient and costeffective ways of disposing of the H2S gas has become all-important. To this end, a two-step thermochemical H2S splitting cycle is proposed in this work which does more than just getting rid of the toxic gas but has the potential to produce valuable H2 gas as well as store the solar heat energy. Studies have proved that the type of material used, such as metal sulfides, is critical to the efficiency of this thermochemical splitting process. As follows, this study focuses on establishing a criterion to aid in selecting favorable metal sulfides for application and further development in the H2S thermochemical decomposition sphere. Using a computational approach, via the HSC Chemistry 8®, evaluations such as the equilibrium yield from the sulfurization and decomposition reaction steps, the temperature required for reaction spontaneity, and the Reversibility Index were determined. Investigations proved that sulfides of Zirconium, Niobium, and Nickel were auspicious candidates for the thermochemical decomposition.
Nonlinear dynamic characteristics of SMA gripper under bounded noise
Authors: Li Xin-Miao , Zhu Zhi-Wen , Zhang Qing-Xin
Published: February 2019

A kind of constitutive model of SMA is proposed in this paper, and the nonlinear dynamic response of a SMA gripper under bounded noise is studied. The harmonic driving signals and the random disturbance made up of bounded noise. The dynamic model of the system is established by Hamilton principle. The numerical and experimental results show that there is stochastic resonance in the system; the system’s vibration amplitude reaches the most when the outside excitation is moderate.
Enrich waste activated sludge digestibility via natural enzyme supplementation
Authors: Elsamadony Mohamed
Published: February 2019

Upgrading of low biodegradable waste activated sludge (WAS) accomplished through supplement the hydrolysis step with natural enzymes source. Whereas, WAS is rich in particulate fractions in terms of total chemical oxygen demand (tCOD), total suspended solids (TSS) and volatile suspended solids (VSS) of 15.78, 14.92 and 12.15 g/L, respectively. Therefore, carica papaya enzymes were utilized to break down the peptide ponds in protein molecules such as papain and protease, as well as, lipases that catalyzed the degradation of lipids. The optimum mixture between papain, protease, and lipase enzymes was found to be 3: 1: 2 while the optimum enzyme concentration was 8%. This conditions was attributed to enhance the H2 productivity form WAS by 97.8%
Methodology Development to Locate Hydrogen Stations for the Initial Deployment Stage
Authors: Itaoka Kenshi , Kimura Seiichiro , Hirose Katsuhiko
Published: February 2019

Hydrogen station deployment needs to be progressed in response to the introduction of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) to the commercial market. Since resources allocated for deployment are limited for either private companies who wish to install stations and governments who provide subsidies, efficient station allocation should be cognizant of the service of potential customers. Based on a literature review, the results of a social survey and data analysis, p-median is chosen to find optimum locations for hydrogen stations. Location and the amount on potential demand for FCV’s in the early stage of deployment is estimated by a regression model. The result of GIS analysis for both 2020 and 2025 using p-median implies the importance of covering regional hub cities (such as prefectural capital cities) as well as metropolises. The coverage rate of potential FCV demand is around 60% at the national level, and exceeds 70 to 80 percent when limited to urban areas for the 400-station allocation. The geographical tendency of station locations allocated by the developed methodology provides guidance for hydrogen station location practice.
Forecast and impact of electromobility development on the Polish Electric Power System
Authors: Kłos Mariusz , Marchel Piotr , Paska Józef , Bielas Rafał , Błędzińska Magdalena , Michalski Łukasz , Wróblewski Konrad , Zagrajek Krzysztof
Published: February 2019

Thanks to the development of technology, the presence of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads is no longer a purely theoretical issue. Also in Poland, electric cars are already visible on the streets, and charging stations (EVCS) are increasingly being installed near newly emerging buildings and housing estates. The article attempts to determine to what extent the use of electric cars will affect the demand for power and energy in the Polish electric power system (PEPS). The basis for PEPS modernization plans should be a detailed analysis of the technical adequacy of all its subsystems: generation, transmission and distribution, on the basis of which it will be possible to assess the potential impact of EVCS infrastructure operation on the Polish electric power system. This publication presents an example of such analysis for the distribution sub- sector, most exposed to potential negative interactions with the future, extensive infrastructure of EVCS.
Mathematical model of a part of an opened extra-high voltage electrical grid
Authors: Lis Marek , Chaban Andriy , Szafraniec Andrzej , Figura Radosław , Levoniuk Vitaliy
Published: February 2019

In the paper, based on interdisciplinary approaches to modeling, a mathematical model of a part of an opened extra-high voltage electrical grid, which key elements are two long power transmission lines with distributed constants is presented. Within this framework the analysis of transient processes in power transmission lines in a single-line arrangement is carried out. The results of transient processes are displayed by means of figures; they are under ongoing research.
Model of market equivalent of inter-system parallel exchange
Authors: Przygrodzki Maksymilian , Kubek Paweł , Gwoźdź Rafał
Published: February 2019

Equivalent of system interconnections is required for purpose of technical and economical analyses. The paper describes the author’s market equivalent of inter-system parallel exchange. This approach allows to separation of import / export of power resulting from loop flows and demand profile. The presented model will be provided with the results of the NPS (Poland’s National Power System) power flow analysis obtained using the built equivalent.
Analysis of Computer Network Information Security and Protection Strategy
Authors: Ming Xiaobo , Chen Ying , Guo Jinhua
Published: February 2019

Computers are closely related to our life and work. We have entered an era in which computers are not available in all walks of life. Among them, many important documents and materials will be stored in the form of electronic files in the computer. However, computers are not absolutely safe, and cases of information theft occur from time to time. Most people usually keep information confidential in the form of encryption. How to avoid the problem of computer information security. Computer network security involves all aspects. To solve these problems, there are many levels of technology, such as cryptography technology, network security technology and so on. Our country has also done a lot of research on the security protection of computer network technology, and these research results have also achieved certain results in the actual construction of computer network. In order to ensure the normal operation of computer networks, ensure information security and prevent information leakage and theft, a special protection system has been established to ensure the security of computer network information by setting up computer detection, security assessment and other links. However, with the rapid development of science and technology, the updating of electronic products is faster and faster, and the challenge of Wechat for network security information is more severe. How to protect computer network information security needs to be solved urgently, this paper discusses this.
Evolution of Financial Ecosystem from the CAS and EGT Perspective
Authors: Zhang Shanshan , Bai Bing , Huang Aijia
Published: February 2019

In recent years, there is a large amount of literature that studies the theory of business ecosystem, but there is rarely literature on the financial system which plays a critical role in the good running of the enterprise. To fill this gap, the purpose of this paper is to address the evolution of financial ecosystem from an ecological and dynamic perspective. In order to provide a better presentation of the evolutionary process, based on complex adaptive system (CAS) theory and evolutionary game theory (EGT), this paper analyzed the adaptability of financial ecosystem and built an evolutionary game model of financial ecosystem to confirm the point of the view. The results show that the evolution of financial ecosystem is a dynamic adaptive process. Under the assumption of limited rationality, the financial ecosystem gradually finds the optimal strategy through adaptive learning, and finally the evolution reaches an equilibrium stage.
Evaluation and Management of Neck and Back Pain
Authors: Potter Samuel , Martel John
Published: February 2019

Neck and back pain are common reasons for seeking evaluation and treatment in the emergency department. Within both systems there exist several time-sensitive diagnoses that the emergency provider should be familiar with in order to prevent significant morbidity and mortality. In this article we provide a general overview of these complaints by discussing problems in a systems-based fashion as well as discussing the initial evaluation, work-up, and treatment options for these diagnoses.
Movement Disorders Emergencies
Authors: Rajan Suraj , Kaas Bonnie , Moukheiber Emile
Published: February 2019

Many acute and potentially life-threatening medical conditions have hyperkinetic or hypokinetic movement disorders as their hallmark. Here we review the clinical phenomenology, and diagnostic principles of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, malignant catatonia, serotonin syndrome, Parkinsonism hyperpyrexia, acute parkinsonism, acute chorea-ballism, drug-induced dystonia, and status dystonicus. In the absence of definitive lab tests and imaging, only a high index of clinical suspicion, awareness of at-risk populations, and variations in clinical presentation can help with diagnosis. We also discuss the principles of management and rationale behind treatment modalities in the light of more recent evidence.
Superior Vena Cava Cancerous Thrombus Due to Squamous Cell Tongue Cancer: Virchow's Triad at Its Worst Version
Authors: Papanikolaou John , Koukoubani Triantafyllia , Zakynthinos Epaminondas
Published: February 2019

Superior vena cava (SVC) cancerous thrombosis is extremely sparse, especially in the setting of extrathoracic tumours. Herein, we present the case of a patient with a squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, who presented with SVC syndrome possibly secondary to symptomatic metastatic pericardial effusion. In this unique patient, the disastrous concurrence of all the elements of Virchow's triad within the confined anatomical space of SVC may have precipitated extensive vessel thrombosis with catastrophic consequences. To our knowledge, there has been no previous report about presence of SVC cancerous thrombosis in squamous cell tongue cancer. In this respect, our report may provide an unusual mechanism of tongue cancer expansion, which clinicians should be familiar with. In addition, it may highlight the clinical importance of SVC thrombosis on patients' clinical outcome, as well as the role of transoesophageal echocardiography in early detection of occult thrombi in the sub-set of patients with SVC syndrome.
Social Determinants of Gestational Weight Gain in an Obese, Low-Income Population
Authors: Ratan Bani Maheshwari , Garbarino Abigail Hook , Sellner Allison Archer , Miao Di , Hollier Lisa Marie
Published: February 2019

Objective To examine how social support factors affect compliance with gestational weight gain (GWG) recommendations in an obese, low-income, predominantly minority population.

Study Design A retrospective cohort of 772 pregnant women with body mass index > 30 was reviewed. Univariate and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to compare GWG with pregnancy planning, relationship status, participation in group prenatal care, nutritional education, and demographic factors. Subgroup analysis was performed to determine if differences existed in entry into prenatal care.

Results Planned nature of pregnancy, relationship status, nutritional education, and group prenatal care did not significantly affect GWG. Women with planned pregnancies and in group prenatal care had their first appointment during the first trimester at a higher rate than those with unplanned pregnancy and in traditional care, respectively. Regardless of timing of nutrition consult, GWG was not affected. Nulliparous patients and Class 1 obese patients were more likely to have excessive GWG.

Conclusion Social support factors in this study did not individually affect compliance with GWG recommendations in a low-income, obese pregnant population, although some factors were associated with earlier entry to prenatal care. Multimodal, longitudinal programs are likely necessary to achieve increased compliance with GWG recommendations in this population.
Combined Surgical and Endoscopic Approach for Ring–Sling Complex
Authors: Porcedda Giulio , Brambilla Alice , Favilli Silvia , Murzi Bruno , Mirabile Lorenzo , Baggi Roberto , Arcieri Luigi
Published: February 2019

Background Left pulmonary artery (LPA) sling (PAS) is a vascular ring, which is frequently associated with long-segment tracheal stenosis (TS). Mortality rate in operated children is still high, especially in cases of severe tracheal hypoplasia and/or associated congenital heart defects (CHDs). We report our experience of treatment and follow-up in a pediatric cohort of patients affected by PAS with severe tracheobronchial involvement.

Methods From 2005 to 2017, we enrolled 11 children diagnosed with PAS and congenital TS requiring surgical intervention. Echocardiography, computed tomography, and bronchoscopy were performed in all patients. Associated CHD were present in 5 (45%) patients. Tracheal reconstruction techniques included slide tracheoplasty (7/11; 63%), slide tracheoplasty and costal cartilage graft (2/11; 18%), and Hazekamp technique (2/11; 18%).

Nine patients underwent LPA direct reimplantation and concomitant tracheoplasty; concomitant surgical repair for CHD was performed in three children.

Results Over a mean follow-up of 30 months (range: 3–75 months), a late mortality of 18% was registered; no early death occurred. Good flow through LPA could be documented in all patients. Ten children required operative bronchoscopies (mean: 16/patients) aimed at stent positioning/removal, treatment of granulomas, and tracheobronchial dilatation.

Conclusions Severe tracheobronchial stenosis and associated CHD were the main determinants for hospitalization time, intensive assistance, and repeated endoscopic procedures.

Patients affected by PAS/TS complex require a careful management at high-specialized centers providing multidisciplinary team.

Respiratory endoscopy may play a central role both in preoperatory assessment and in postoperative management of patients showing severe tracheobronchial involvement.
Management of Patients Taking Oral Anticoagulants Who Need Urgent Surgery for Hip Fracture
Authors: Ostuni Angelo , Tiscia Giovanni , Marongiu Francesco , Barcellona Doris , Grandone Elvira
Published: February 2019

The number of hip fractures in anticoagulated patients is predicted to increase, due to people living longer. However, evidence regarding urgent perioperative management of elderly patients with hip fracture who take oral anticoagulants (vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants) is scarce. In this article, the authors present a narrative review of the evidence to date supporting the urgent management of hip fracture in anticoagulated elderly patients. They discuss the complexity of managing the high risk of procedure-related bleeding and, at the same time, the high risk of thromboembolism. The role of a bridging procedure and the best strategy of anticoagulation reversal are also reviewed. Further studies are required to improve the evidence in urgent surgery, especially in frail elderly patients.
Optimal energy-emission management in hybrid AC-DC microgrids with vehicle-2-grid technology
Authors: Papari Behnaz , Edrington Chris S. , Gonsoulin David
Published: February 2019

This article focuses on the optimal operation management challenges in hybrid AC-DC microgrids considering optimal feeder switching, renewable energy sources, and plug-in electric vehicles. In comparison with the traditional hybrid AC-DC microgrid concept, the reconfigurable hybrid AC-DC microgrids provide more flexibility for better supporting consumers and reducing the operation costs through the remotely controlled switches. In addition, the reconfigurable structure of the hybrid microgrid along with the vehicle-to-grid technology supports the high penetration of plug-in electric vehicles by changing their role from only consuming loads into mobile storages. The proposed problem is prepared as a constrained multi-objective problem optimizing both cost and emission objectives. Due to the high complication and nonlinearity of the problem, an effective optimization algorithm called the theta-crow search algorithm is developed to solve the problem optimally. Also, a stochastic framework based on the point estimate method is used to model the high uncertainties of the problem. The high reliable and satisfying performance of the new method is shown on a test AC-DC microgrid.
Mechanical characterization of soft substrates for wearable and washable electronic systems
Authors: de Mulatier S. , Ramuz M. , Coulon D. , Blayac S. , Delattre R.
Published: February 2019

Integration of complex electronics into our everyday outfit is a key challenge for the tomorrow-wearable technologies. When performing data processing and communications, these circuits are an essential part of sensing and actuating smart systems. The choice of an appropriate electronic substrate is essential for robust and reliable, yet imperceptible systems. In this paper, we study and mechanically improve the conventional substrates of the flexible circuit board (FCB) industry for highly flexible and washable textile-integrated circuits. First, we study the mechanical limits of polymeric substrates to better apprehend how permanent damages occur during washing cycle. Measurements of plasticization threshold of our films under bending showed that bending radii below 1 mm occur during washing, and that 13 μm-thick polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film can be elastically deformed down to 0.4 mm of bending radius. Second, we focus on the electrical and mechanical behavior of a stack composed of a PET substrate, aluminum conductive tracks, and polydimethylsiloxane encapsulation. An analytical model of stacks under bending is correlated with experimental results to demonstrate the impact of the thicknesses of the different layers and to improve the reliability under washing. Using the same model, we investigate different materials for encapsulation to further optimize the mechanical reliability of FCB while decreasing its overall thickness.
Development of a glue-free bimorph mirror for use in vacuum chambers
Authors: Ichii Yoshio , Okada Hiromi , Nakamori Hiroki , Ueda Akihiko , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Matsuyama Satoshi , Yamauchi Kazuto
Published: February 2019

PZT (lead zirconate titanate)-glued bimorph deformable mirrors are widely used in hard X-ray regimes; however, they have not yet been used in soft X-ray regimes because they are less compatible for usage under high vacuum. In this study, we developed a glue-free bimorph deformable mirror, in which silver nano-particles were employed to bond PZT actuators to mirror substrates. Under an appropriate bonding condition, the bonding layer was confirmed to be uniform and the mirror’s bending characteristics were demonstrated to be sufficiently stable; its gas emission rate was also shown to be acceptable. Piezo responses before and after additional heating at 200 °C showed the thermal stability of its bonding and bending properties.
Failure of P-surfaced Shellular subjected to internal pressure
Authors: Kolesnikova Tatiana , Wu Cheng Han , Han Seung Chul , Kang Kiju
Published: February 2019

This work measured the internal pressure strengths of a periodic shell architecture, named Shellular, made of Ni-P, Cu, and silica. For this purpose, a simple and effective test method was applied. The results were analyzed using elementary mechanics and finite element analyses. The critical pressures of the most ductile Shellular specimens, made of Cu, were the highest among them, despite the low strength of Cu. Although the specimens had substantial geometrical imperfections and were made of thin shells of a micrometer, the strengths of Cu Shellulars under internal pressure were comparable to that of a conventional cylindrical pressure vessel.
Double-coil magnetic focusing of the electron beam generated by a plasma-cathode electron source
Authors: Bakeev I. Yu. , Klimov A. S. , Oks E. M. , Zenin A. A.
Published: February 2019

We present the results of our investigations of magnetic focusing of the electron beam generated by a plasma-cathode electron source in the forevacuum pressure range (10–30 Pa). We show that a magnetic double-focusing system employing two separate field coils with the main magnetic coil located close to the beam collector at the focal plane provides effective and efficient focusing of the electron beam. With our e-beam source, this focusing system produces a power density of more than 1 MW/cm2 at the electron beam focus with an accelerating voltage of 30 kV and a beam current up to 60 mA. For comparison, the maximum beam power density provided by plasma-cathode electron sources at pressures of less than 0.1 Pa is at the level of 10 MW/cm2.
Structure and non-covalent interactions of 1,3-difluoropropane and its complex with water explored by rotational spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Lu Tao , Zhang Jiaqi , Chen Junhua , Gou Qian , Xia Zhining , Feng Gang
Published: February 2019

1,3-difluoropropane and its complex with water were characterized by using Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy with the aid of quantum chemical calculations. Rotational spectra of the monomer were extended to the 13C isotopologues which lead to a precise structural determination of the two observed conformers. For the 1,3-difluoropropane-water complex, the most stable isomer has been observed and assigned in the supersonic jet expansion. In the observed isomer, water acts as a proton donor and a proton acceptor forming one O–H⋯F weak hydrogen bond and two C–H⋯O weak hydrogen bonds, respectively. The measurements on the three 13C, 18O, and deuterated water allowed determination of the skeleton structure and evaluation of the weak hydrogen bond parameters. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules, non-covalent interaction, and symmetry-adapted perturbation theory analyses were performed to reveal the nature of the intermolecular non-covalent interactions.
Consistency in echo-state networks
Authors: Lymburn Thomas , Khor Alexander , Stemler Thomas , Corrêa Débora C. , Small Michael , Jüngling Thomas
Published: February 2019

Consistency is an extension to generalized synchronization which quantifies the degree of functional dependency of a driven nonlinear system to its input. We apply this concept to echo-state networks, which are an artificial-neural network version of reservoir computing. Through a replica test, we measure the consistency levels of the high-dimensional response, yielding a comprehensive portrait of the echo-state property.
Additive atomic approximation for relativistic effects: A two-component Hamiltonian for molecular electronic structure calculations
Authors: Laikov Dimitri N.
Published: February 2019

An approximate relativistic two-component Hamiltonian for use in molecular electronic structure calculations is derived in the form of a sum of fixed atom-centered kinetic and spin-orbit operators added to the non-relativistic Hamiltonian. Starting from the well-known zeroth-order regular approximation, further steps are taken to get rid of its nonlinearity in the potential, ending up with a simple formulation with easily computable integrals that can seamlessly work with any traditional electronic structure method. Molecular tests show a good accuracy of this approximation.
Low temperature activation of amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O semiconductors using microwave and e-beam radiation, and the associated thin film transistor properties
Authors: Jang Seong Cheol , Park Jozeph , Kim Hyoung-Do , Hong Hyunmin , Chung Kwun-Bum , Kim Yong Joo , Kim Hyun-Suk
Published: February 2019

In-Ga-Zn-O (IGZO) films deposited by sputtering process generally require thermal annealing above 300°C to achieve satisfactory semiconductor properties. In this work, microwave and e-beam radiation are adopted at room temperature as alternative activation methods. Thin film transistors (TFTs) based on IGZO semiconductors that have been subjected to microwave and e-beam processes exhibit electrical properties similar to those of thermally annealed devices. However spectroscopic ellipsometry analyses indicate that e-beam radiation may have caused structural damage in IGZO, thus compromising the device stability under bias stress.
Solutions for critical quasilinear elliptic equations in RN
Authors: Gao Fengshuang , Guo Yuxia
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we consider the following critical quasilinear problems in RN: −∑i,j=1NDj(bij(v)Div)+12∑i,j=1Nbij′(v)DivDjv+a(x)v=μ|v|qs−2v+|v|2*s−2v,inRN,v(x)→0  as|x|  →∞, where N ≥ 4, bij(v) ∼ 1 + |v|2s−2, s ≥ 1, μ > 0 is a constant, q < 2*, 2*=2NN−2 is the Sobolev critical exponent for the embedding of H1(RN) into Lp(RN), and a(x) is a potential function which is finite and positive and satisfies some decay assumptions. We first use the truncation to overcome the difficulties caused by both the unbounded domain and the critical exponents. Then we perform a change of variables to overcome the difficulty caused by the unboundness of bij. Finally a regularization approach combined with a compact argument helps us to prove the existence of infinitely many solutions.
Identification of fragment ions produced from hexamethyldigermane and the production of low-energy beam of fragment ion possessing Ge-C bond
Authors: Yoshimura Satoru , Sugimoto Satoshi , Takeuchi Takae , Kiuchi Masato
Published: February 2019

Fragment ions produced from hexamethyldigermane (HMDG) were identified using an ion beam system. The possible chemical formulae for these ions are CH3+, C2H4+, Ge+, GeCHx+, and GeC3Hx+. Among the fragment ions, GeCHx+ ions were mass-selected and irradiated to a Si substrate at room temperature. The ion energy was set at approximately 10 eV. The analyses of the film deposited on the substrate suggested that GeCHx+ ion beam produced from HMDG was useful for germanium-carbon film formation.
Costs and consequences of an intervention-based program to reduce hospital-acquired pressure injuries in one health district in Australia
Authors: Barakat-Johnson Michelle , Lai Michelle , Wand Timothy , White Kathryn , De Abreu Lourenco Richard
Published: February 2019

Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the costs of hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) in one local health district in Australia and compare the costs and consequences of an intervention-based program with current practice to reduce HAPI incidence and prevalence. Methods A retrospective cost–consequence analysis was conducted using HAPI incidence rate per occupied bed days, point prevalence rates, Australian Refined-Diagnosis Related Group (AR-DRG) costs and the costs of the program to reduce the HAPI rate. Data were analysed for two phases: preprogram implementation (1 June 2015–1 June 2016) and postprogram implementation (1 August 2016–31 July 2017). Results The HAPI intervention-based program resulted in a 51.4% reduction in the incidence of HAPI (from 1.46 per occupied bed day in 2014 to 0.71 per occupied bed day in 2017) and a 71.6% reduction in the prevalence of HAPI (from 6.7% in 2014 to 1.9% in 2017). The occurrence of HAPI added an average cost of A$3332 per episode, such that the overall program, including implementation, reduced costs by A$837 387. The greatest cost reduction was due to the cessation of washable and disposable underpads. The largest contributor to the cost of HAPI prevention was for education and training regarding HAPI prevention initiatives. Conclusions The HAPI intervention-based program halved the incidence and substantially reduced the prevalence of HAPI, with a 23.1% cost saving compared with the previous approach to preventing HAPIs. What is known about the topic? HAPIs are costly to the individual, the organisation and health system. The prevention of HAPIs is a priority in Australia. There is limited research on the economic effect of HAPIs and the costs and consequences for hospitals of implementation strategies to reduce their incidence. What does this paper add? This paper informs health policy and decision makers about the costs and consequences for a local health district of a program to reduce and prevent HAPIs. This paper reports the economic effect of HAPIs, including hospital episode costs per HAPI and length of stay, on one local health district. What are the implications for practitioners? This cost–consequence analysis has shown that the program to reduce HAPIs resulted in a reduction in expenditure and positive patient outcomes. Such a program is potentially transferable to other healthcare settings.
Corrigendum to: Parallel responses of human epidermal keratinocytes to inorganic SbIII and AsIII
Authors: Phillips Marjorie A. , Cánovas Angela , Wu Pei-Wen , Islas-Trejo Alma , Medrano Juan F. , Rice Robert H.
Published: February 2019

Environmental contextIncreasing commercial use of antimony is raising its environmental presence and thus possible effects on humans and ecosystems. An important uncertainty is the risk that exposure poses for biological systems. The present work explores the similarity in response of human epidermal keratinocytes, a known target cell type, to antimony and arsenic, where deleterious consequences of exposure to the latter are better known.
AbstractSbIII and AsIII are known to exhibit similar chemical properties, but the degree of similarity in their effects on biological systems merits further exploration. The present work compares the responses of human epidermal keratinocytes, a known target cell type for arsenite-induced carcinogenicity, to these metalloids after treatment for 1 week at environmentally relevant concentrations. Previous work with these cells has shown that arsenite and antimonite have parallel effects in suppressing differentiation, altering levels of several critical enzymes and maintaining colony-forming ability. More globally, protein profiling now reveals parallels in SbIII and AsIII effects. The more sensitive technique of transcriptional profiling also shows considerable parallels. Thus, gene expression changes were almost entirely in the same directions for the two treatments, although the degree of change was sometimes significantly different. Inspection of the changes revealed that RYR1 and LRIG1 were among the genes strongly suppressed, consistent with reduced calcium-dependent differentiation and maintenance of epidermal growth factor-dependent proliferative potential. Moreover, levels of microRNAs in the cells were altered in parallel, with nearly 90% of the 198 most highly expressed ones being suppressed. Among these was miR-203, which is known to decrease proliferative potential. Finally, both SbIII and AsIII were seen to attenuate bone morphogenetic protein 6 induction of dual-specificity phosphatases 2 and 14, consistent with maintaining epidermal growth factor receptor signalling. These findings raise the question of whether SbIII, like AsIII, could act as a human skin carcinogen.
An examination of fuel moisture, energy release and emissions during laboratory burning of live wildland fuels
Authors: May Nathaniel , Ellicott Evan , Gollner Michael
Published: February 2019

A series of small-scale laboratory fires were conducted to study the relationship between fuel type, moisture content, energy released and emissions during the combustion process of live wildland fuels. The experimental design sought to understand the effects that varying moisture content of different fire-promoting plant species had on the release of total energy, gaseous emissions (CO, CO2), particulate matter less than 2.5µm in diameter (PM2.5) and fire radiative energy (FRE). Instantaneous FRE, or fire radiative power (FRP), is an important parameter used in remote sensing to relate the emitted energy to the biomass fuel consumption. Currently, remote sensing techniques rely on empirically based linear relationships between emitted FRE and biomass consumed. However, this relationship is based on the assumption that all fuels emit the same amount of energy per unit mass, regardless of fuel conditions (type, moisture, packing, orientation, etc.). In this study, we revisited these assumptions under the influence of moisture content for species that are adapted to fire, containing volatile oils. Results show that, in terms of the total energy released, this assumption holds fairly well regardless of fuel type and moisture content. However, FRE was found to be slightly dependent on the fuel type and very dependent on the moisture content of the fuel. Most of this variation was attributed to changes in the behaviour of the combustion process for different fuels, similarly observed in emissions measurements. These results highlight a need to further examine the role of fuel moisture and combustion state when determining emissions from remotely sensed measurements.
Medium carbon fully pearlitic steel: Microstructures and properties after wire drawing
Authors: Das Sourav , Bradley Paul , Haldar Arunansu
Published: February 2019

In the current work, fully pearlitic microstructure was initially developed in a medium carbon steel by isothermal holding at different temperatures. Subsequently, these samples were drawn in laboratory scale wire-drawing machine without any intermediate heat treatment. Microstructures and mechanical properties of as-heat-treated and heat-treated plus drawn samples were characterised. The results were also compared with some commercially produced steel. It was found that the new steel can offer a very good wire drawing behaviour. The steel possesses a good combination of strength and ductility along with a high-value torsion, bending and reverse bending properties after drawn condition as well.
Microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of magnetron sputtered Ti-B-N films
Authors: Asempah Isaac , Xu Junhua , Yu Lihua , Ju Hongbo , Wu Fanjing , Luo Huang
Published: February 2019

Titanium boron nitride (Ti-B-N) films with various boron contents were deposited using titanium and boron targets in a reactive magnetron sputtering system. The boron content in the film was varied from 0 at.-% to 8.7 at.-%, to evaluate its properties. Various analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction, high-resolution electron microscopy, nanoindentation and ball-on-disk dry sliding etc. were used. Incorporation of B into the film influenced the microstructure, mechanical and room-temperature tribological properties. At a B content of 0.2 at.-%, the film exhibited the highest hardness of ∼27 GPa. It also presented the lowest wear rate of ∼2.9 × 10−7 mm3  N−1  mm−1. However, there was a gradual decrease in coefficient of friction ( CoF) values of the film when the B content was increased, with a minimum of 0.2 attained at 8.7 at.-% boron. The increased volume fraction of amorphous boron nitride phase contributed to the decrease in coefficient of friction.
Effect and mechanism of mGluR6 on the biological function of rat embryonic neural stem cells
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Lu , Chen Yani , Shi Haiyan , Huang Xiaoyong , Wang Yanfeng , Wang Yu , Wei Yameng , Xue Wanjuan , Han Jiming
Published: February 2019

Here, we investigated the effects and molecular mechanisms of metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 (mGluR6) on rat embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs). Overexpression of mGluR6 significantly promoted the proliferation of NSCs and increased the diameter of neutrospheres after treatment for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. Overexpression of mGluR6 promoted G1 to S phase transition, with significantly decreased cell ratio in G1/G0 phase but significantly increased cell ratio in S phase. Additionally, mGluR6 overexpression for 48 h decreased the early and late apoptosis significantly. Moreover, overexpression of mGluR6 significantly increased the expression of p-ERK1/2, Cyclin D1 and CDK2, while the expression of p-p38 was significantly decreased. On the contrary, these effects of mGluR6 overexpression were reversed by mGluR6 knockdown. In conclusion, mGluR6 promotes the proliferation of NSCs by activation of ERK1/2-Cyclin D1/CDK2 signaling pathway and inhibits the apoptosis of NSCs by blockage of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.
Weight loss effect of sweet orange essential oil microcapsules on obese SD rats induced by high-fat diet
Authors: Li Dahu , Wu Houjiu , Dou Huating
Published: February 2019

Obesity is one of the most common and major health concerns worldwide. Weight management through dietary supplements with natural plant extracts has become the focus of current research. Sweet orange essential oil (SOEO) is a natural plant extract, with many bioactivities. In order to evaluate the weight loss effect of SOEO microcapsules and investigate the underlying mechanism, we fed high-fat diet-induced obese SD rats with SOEO microcapsules for 15 days and found that SOEO microcapsules reduced body weight gain by 41.4%, decreased total cholesterol level, alleviated liver and adipose tissue pathological alteration. The results of fluorescence quantitative PCR revealed that decreasing the expression of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-γ, upregulating of uncoupling protein 2, hormone sensitive lipase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I, inhibiting the expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase appear to be the mechanism of SOEO microcapsules to lose weight. This study suggests that SOEO microcapsule is a potential dietary supplement for weight loss.

Abbreviations: SOEO: sweet orange essential oil; TC: total cholesterol; TG: triglyceride; LDL-c: low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; HDL-c: high-density lipoprotein cholesterol; PPARα: peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-α; PPARγ: peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-γ; UCP2: uncoupling protein 2; HSL: hormone sensitive lipase; CPT1: carnitine palmitoyltransferase I; ACC: acetyl-CoA carboxylase; NPY: neuropeptide Y; LEP: leptin; INS: insulin; ALT: alanine aminotransferase; AST: aspartate aminotransferase.
Protein stability of p53 targets determines their temporal expression dynamics in response to p53 pulsing
Authors: Hanson Ryan L. , Porter Joshua R. , Batchelor Eric
Published: February 2019

In response to DNA damage, the transcription factor p53 accumulates in a series of pulses. While p53 dynamics play a critical role in regulating stress responses, how p53 pulsing affects target protein expression is not well understood. Recently, we showed that p53 pulses generate diversity in target mRNA expression dynamics; however, given that mRNA and protein expression are not necessarily well correlated, it remains to be determined how p53 pulses impact target protein expression. Using computational and experimental approaches, we show that target protein decay rates filter p53 pulses: Distinct target protein expression dynamics are generated depending on the relationship between p53 pulse frequency and target mRNA and protein stability. Furthermore, by mutating the targets MDM2 and PUMA to alter their stabilities, we show that downstream pathways are sensitive to target protein decay rates. This study delineates the mechanisms by which p53 dynamics play a crucial role in orchestrating the timing of events in the DNA damage response network.
A morphological study of galaxies in ZwCl0024+1652, a galaxy cluster at redshift z ∼ 0.4
Authors: Amado Zeleke Beyoro , Pović Mirjana , Sánchez-Portal Miguel , Tessema S B , Bongiovanni Ángel , Cepa Jordi , Cerviño Miguel , González-Serrano J Ignacio , Nadolny Jakub , Garcia Ana Maria Pérez , Pérez-Martinez Ricardo , Pintos-Castro Irene
Published: February 2019

The well-known cluster of galaxies ZwCl0024+1652 at z ∼ 0.4 lacks an in-depth morphological classification of its central region. While previous studies provide a visual classification of a patched area, we used the public code called galaxy Support Vector Machine (galsvm) and HST/ACS data as well as the WFP2 master catalogue to automatically classify all cluster members up to 1 Mpc. galsvm analyses galaxy morphologies through support vector machine (SVM). From the 231 cluster galaxies, we classified 97 as early types (ETs) and 83 as late types (LTs). The remaining 51 stayed unclassified (or undecided). By cross-matching our results with the existing visual classification, we found an agreement of 81 per cent. In addition to previous Zwcl0024 morphological classifications, 121 of our galaxies were classified for the first time in this work. In addition, we tested the location of classified galaxies on the standard morphological diagrams, colour–colour and colour–magnitude diagrams. Out of all cluster members, ∼20 per cent are emission-line galaxies, taking into account previous GLACE results. We have verified that the ET fraction is slightly higher near the cluster core and decreases with the clustercentric distance, while the opposite trend has been observed for LT galaxies. We found a higher fraction of ETs (54  per cent) than LTs (46  per cent) throughout the analysed central region, as expected. In addition, we analysed the correlation between the five morphological parameters (Abraham concentration, Bershady–Concelice concentration, asymmetry, Gini, and M20 moment of light) and the clustercentric distance, without finding a clear trend. Finally, as a result of our work, the morphological catalogue of 231 galaxies containing all the measured parameters and the final classification is available in the electronic form of this paper.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities as a Public Health Ethics Issue
Authors: Thomas Stephen B.
Published: February 2019

It is well established that racial and ethnic minorities in the United States have lower life expectancies and suffer more from numerous health conditions than their white counterparts. This chapter draws on a US perspective to provide an overview of racial and ethnic health disparities and their causes. It describes public health policy initiatives that address racial and ethnic health disparities, situates racial disparities in the current social and political context, examines what progress has been made in reducing racial and ethnic disparities, offers an account of the moral foundations for further efforts to reduce disparities, and suggests a way forward for eliminating racial and ethnic health disparities. Public health issues of social justice, racism, and violence are discussed.
An Overview of Sexual and Reproductive Health in the Context of Public Health Ethics
Authors: Henry Leslie Meltzer
Published: February 2019

Sexual and reproductive health is an important aspect of individual health and well-being, as well as a significant determinant of public health. This chapter uses a public health ethics lens to illuminate three examples of moral complexity arising in sexual and reproductive health: social justice, contested views of harms and benefits, and self-determination. The chapter also provides an overview of the four chapters in this dedicated section of The Oxford Handbook of Public Health Ethics. The section’s chapters provide a focused examination of public health ethics in the context of STI control measures, contraception, abortion, and pregnancy-related services.
Access to Pregnancy-Related Services: Public Health Ethics Issues
Authors: Lyerly Anne Drapkin , Jaffe Elana , Little Margaret Olivia
Published: February 2019

Advancing fair access to evidence-based pregnancy-related services is a critical public health priority. It is widely recognized that there are inequalities in lifesaving interventions. This chapter however addresses issues raised by services whose value or utility are contested. Using illustrative examples of prenatal genetic testing and modes of childbirth, the chapter highlights the ways in which issues of access are complicated by social and cultural ideas about what is valued; discusses contested questions about what is ethically responsible or required of patients, providers, and public health systems in these reproductive health contexts; and addresses areas of needed research and further ethical analysis. It concludes that issues of access in pregnancy-related care must attend both to broad issues of justice and access and to particular ways that pregnancy services are valued, debated, and made available to women who might—or might not—benefit from them.
Immunization and Ethics: Beneficence, Coercion, Public Health, and the State
Authors: Colgrove James
Published: February 2019

As medical products given to healthy people (mostly children) at least partly for the benefit of others, vaccines raise challenging ethical questions. A vaccine provides a dual benefit: a direct benefit to the person receiving it, and an indirect benefit to other members of the community through the creation of herd immunity. As with any medical intervention, immunization also carries risks of adverse events. The collective implications of immunization have led governments to enact policies designed to achieve high rates of coverage among their populations. This article provides a historical overview of vaccine use and considers ethical questions related to compulsory vaccination, coercion, vaccine rationing, and compensation for vaccine-related adverse events.
Prevention and Treatment of Tuberculosis in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Ethical Challenges
Authors: Silva Diego S. , Selgelid Michael
Published: February 2019

Although tuberculosis (TB) affects people worldwide, particularly those of lower socioeconomic status, the vast majority of the burden is felt in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In turn, the ethical challenges posed by TB care and control are especially salient in LMICs faced with acute and chronic resource constraints. For some of these challenges, there is broad agreement about what ought to be done. TB prevention among close contacts of contagious patients, for example, is essential. Other challenges, however, are either new or refractory and require greater consideration. This chapter discusses three such key ethical challenges posed by TB care and control, particularly within the context of LMICs: isolation and involuntary isolation, third-party notification, and the introduction of new antitubercular drugs.