bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Summary
Authors: Talmon-Heller Daniella
Published: September 2020

Beginning with the pre-Islamic Arabian notion that Rajab was one of three holy months, this chapter summarizes the historical evolution of the individual and public commemorative rites of Rajab. It also highlights the formation of the literary genres that both constituted and reflected this evolution, as well as the polemical works which defined those rites as bidʿ - unwarranted innovations.
Introduction
Authors: Talmon-Heller Daniella
Published: September 2020

‘The number of months with God is twelve in accordance with God’sdecree on the day he created the heavens and the earth’, declares verse 9: 36 of the Qurʾan, subjugating time to its Lord, and adds: ‘four of them are sacred (ḥurum)’. While Ramadan is explicitly designated in the Qurʾan as the sacred month of the fast and an unspecified sacred month or ‘well-known months’ (Q. 2: 197) as the time of the hajj, the other sacred months remain unnamed....
On Herstein’s ‘Quanta and Corpuscles’
Authors: Desmet Ronny
Published: September 2020

In this chapter Ronny Desmet airs some disagreements with Gary Herstein’s earlier chapter on ‘Quanta and Corpuscles’, arguing for a more nuanced understanding of Bohr’s Copenhagen interpretation. He also notes that concept of continuity can be reasonably easily understood as the divisibility-indivisibility contrast, and that Lewis Ford’s temporal atomism thesis is note definitively dead, since Whitehead did change his mind from an idea of continuous becoming to one of atomic becoming
KAJIAN PUSTAKA FORMULASI DAN EVALUASI MIKROKAPSUL SALUT ENTERIK MENGGUNAKAN ACRYL-EZE® & SURETERIC DENGAN METODE PENGGABUNGAN MIKROENKAPSULASI DENGAN EKSTRUSI-SFERONISASI
Authors: Santoso Rahmat , Aliudin Fiqi
Published: September 2020

Microcapsules were prepared by means of microencapsulation modified by the extrusion-spheronization method. The extrusion-spheronization method is used to cover the shortcomings of the microencapsulation method. The results showed that Acryl-eze and Sureterik can be used in coatings in producing microcapsules. The results of research evaluating the formulation of enteric acetosal coated microcapsules have not resulted in delayed release system that is in accordance with monographic requirements and dissolution profile testing has not shown the elimination stage. The results of the evaluation of the delayed release release system enteric coated microcapsule formulation met the requirements of monograph and dissolution profile test results, except for F3 in buffering conditions. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the enteric-coated microcapsule formulation using Acryl-eze® & Sureteric by combining microencapsulation and spheronization extrusion methods.
Anatomy of Caste Violence: The Question of Dignity, Honour and Justice in India
Authors: Lal L David
Published: September 2020

The Constitution of India prescribes provisions to safeguard the lives of the Scheduled Castes. Special Acts address the existing challenges related to discriminatory practices and brutal violence against them by the dominant communities. The protective legislations have however seldom acted to restrain increasing display of cruelty against the historically marginalised. Mundane normalised violence compels them to question the authority of caste and functioning of the legal system in India. The persistence of caste-based violence highlights the inability of state and bureaucracy to create an order in society. It is, therefore, necessary to understand the nature of the social system, causes of violence against Dalits and the working of administrative and judicial machinery. This paper highlights a detailed analysis of caste violence occurred in 2006 in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It examines the usage of violence by the upper caste to maintain and re-produce the caste-based social order.
Experiences of Cyber Harassment and Social Adjustment in Female University Students: Moderating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Ayub Sumaira , Malik Farah
Published: September 2020

The present study investigated the moderating role of self-efficacy in relationship between experiences of cyber harassment experiences and social adjustment in female university students. A purposive sample of 365 female students of universities in Lahore with age ranging from 17-30 years (M = 20.93, SD = 2.39) was taken. Urdu versions of Cyber Harassment Experience Scale (Ayub & Malik, 2017), Generalized Self-efficacy Scale (Schwarzer & Jerusalem, 1995), Bell’s Social Adjustment Scale (Bell, 1934), and Coping with Cyber Harassment Questionnaire-modified (Ayub & Malik, 2017) were used. The results showed that overall experience of cyber harassment was not related with social adjustment; however, one of its subscales unauthorized use of identity information showed negative relationship with social adjustment. Further, the results showed negative relationship between overall experiences of cyber harassment and self-efficacy, while a positive relationship was found between self-efficacy and social adjustment. The results of moderation through hierarchical regression indicated nonsignificant interaction between self-efficacy and unauthorized use of identity information subscale of experiences of cyber harassment. Further, internal coping and reporting response (external coping) positively and no. of social media friends negatively predicted social adjustment in female university students.
A Comparative Cost-Benefit Analysis of Conventional and Organic Hazelnuts Production Systems in Center Italy
Authors: Coppola Giuseppe , Costantini Michele , Orsi Luigi , Facchinetti Davide , Santoro Francesco , Pessina Domenico , Bacenetti Jacopo
Published: September 2020

In this study, the economic profitability of hazelnut production in central Italy using conventional and organic farming systems was evaluated using the cost–benefit analysis methodology. Viterbo’s province is the leading province in Italy in terms of quantity produced. Three indicators were calculated for both farming systems: net present value, payback time, internal rate of return. The analysis was conducted utilizing primary data collected by means of interviews and surveys with local farmers and organizations of producers. The collected production data refer to the decade 2008–2018; a global area of 100.34 ha and 76.14 ha were considered for conventional and organic cultivation, respectively. Sensitivity analysis was carried out considering different discount rates, price variability, and inflation rates. The net present value is equal to 92,800 €/ha and to 3778 €/ha, the payback time is 10.47 years and 42.94 years, while the internal rate of return is 12.2% and 1.1% for the conventional and organic production systems, respectively. The conventional production system performs significantly more remuneratively, considering that the price premium paid by the market for the organic product and the subsidies granted to organic farmers are not sufficient to balance the lower yield.
Developing Heterotic Groups for Successful Hybrid Breeding in Perennial Ryegrass
Authors: Vogt Maximilian , Yates Steven , Sykes Timothy , Luesink Wilbert , Koch Michael , Studer Bruno
Published: September 2020

Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), an important forage grass species in temperate regions, is genetically improved by population breeding. Although valued for their broad genetic base, the resulting synthetic varieties only partially exploit heterosis. Hybrid breeding offers opportunities to fix beneficial heterotic patterns more effectively and, hence, to increase the yield potential. A suspected bottleneck in the production of perennial ryegrass hybrids is the genetic intermixture of existing germplasm, impeding the definition of heterotic groups. In this study, selected parental populations of a diploid and tetraploid cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS)-based hybrid breeding program were characterized using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). Hybrid populations, derived from 26 parental combinations of the tetraploid breeding program, were tested for yield performance and compared to synthetic varieties at five sites over four growing seasons. The hybrids significantly outperformed the synthetics by 4.15% on average for total dry matter yield. Additionally, GBS revealed the existence of sub-populations within the tetraploid CMS germplasm. This sub-population structure represents the untapped potential that could be exploited for heterosis to further increase biomass yields. Here, we show that CMS hybrids generate substantial yield gains in perennial ryegrass and provide a method to further improve hybrid breeding, using GBS to select for heterotic groups.
Long-Term Feeding of Dairy Goats with Broccoli By-Product and Artichoke Plant Silages: Milk Yield, Quality and Composition
Authors: Monllor Paula , Muelas Raquel , Roca Amparo , Atzori Alberto , Díaz José , Sendra Esther , Romero Gema
Published: September 2020

The aim of this experiment was to study the effects of a 40% inclusion of broccoli by-product (BB) and artichoke plant (AP) silages in dairy goat diets on the milk yield, composition and animal health status during a full lactation. Feed consumption was lower in AP and BB animals due to their composition and higher moisture content, and BB animals showed a significant reduction in body weight. Milk from the BB treatment had the highest fat content, total solids and useful dry matter content (5.02, 13.9 and 8.39%, respectively). The Se level was slightly lower in AP and BB animals; however, the milk of these treatments was the lowest in Na and, in the case of BB animals, the richest in Ca (1267 mg/kg). Control and AP milk showed a similar fatty acid profile, although AP had a more beneficial aptitude for human health (lower ratio of n6/n3, 12.5). Plasma components, as metabolic parameters, were adequate for goats. It was concluded that a 40% inclusion of AP is an adequate solution to reduce the cost of feeding without harming the animals’ health or performance and to improve the nutritional milk quality. It is necessary to lower the BB level of inclusion to increase feed consumption.
Susceptibility to Size Visual Illusions in a Non-Primate Mammal (Equus caballus)
Authors: Cappellato Anansi , Miletto Petrazzini Maria Elena , Bisazza Angelo , Dadda Marco , Agrillo Christian
Published: September 2020

The perception of different size illusions is believed to be determined by size-scaling mechanisms that lead individuals to extrapolate inappropriate 3D information from 2D stimuli. The Muller-Lyer illusion represents one of the most investigated size illusions. Studies on non-human primates showed a human-like perception of this illusory pattern. To date, it is not clear whether non-primate mammals experience a similar illusory effect. Here, we investigated whether horses perceive the Muller-Lyer illusion by using their spontaneous preference for the larger portion of carrot. In control trials, we presented horses with two carrot sticks of different sizes, and in test trials, carrot sticks of identical size were shown to the subjects together with arrowheads made of plastic material and arranged in a way meant to elicit the Müller-Lyer illusion in human observers. In control trials, horses significantly discriminated between the smaller and larger carrot stick. When presented with the illusion, they showed a significant preference for the carrot that humans perceive as longer. Further control trials excluded the possibility that their choices were based on the total size of the carrot stick and the arrowheads together. The susceptibility of horses to this illusion indicates that the perceptual mechanisms underlying size estimation in perissodactyla might be similar to those of primates, notwithstanding the considerable evolutionary divergence in the visual systems of these two mammalian groups.
Strategies to Reduce Biofilm Formation in PEEK Materials Applied to Implant Dentistry—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Brum Renata Scheeren , Labes Luiza Gomes , Volpato Cláudia Ângela Maziero , Benfatti César Augusto Magalhães , Pimenta Andrea de Lima
Published: September 2020

Polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) has emerged in Implant Dentistry with a series of short-time applications and as a promising material to substitute definitive dental implants. Several strategies have been investigated to diminish biofilm formation on the PEEK surface aiming to decrease the possibility of related infections. Therefore, a comprehensive review was carried out in order to compare PEEK with materials widely used nowadays in Implant Dentistry, such as titanium and zirconia, placing emphasis on studies investigating its ability to grant or prevent biofilm formation. Most studies failed to reveal significant antimicrobial activity in pure PEEK, while several studies described new strategies to reduce biofilm formation and bacterial colonization on this material. Those include the PEEK sulfonation process, incorporation of therapeutic and bioactive agents in PEEK matrix or on PEEK surface, PEEK coatings and incorporation of reinforcement agents, in order to produce nanocomposites or blends. The two most analyzed surface properties were contact angle and roughness, while the most studied bacteria were Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Despite PEEK’s susceptibility to biofilm formation, a great number of strategies discussed in this study were able to improve its antibiofilm and antimicrobial properties.
Using C-doped TiO2 Nanoparticles as a Novel Sonosensitizer for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Yang Chun-Chen , Wang Chong-Xuan , Kuan Che-Yung , Chi Chih-Ying , Chen Ching-Yun , Lin Yu-Ying , Chen Gin-Shin , Hou Chun-Han , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: September 2020

Sonodynamic therapy is an effective treatment for eliminating tumor cells by irradiating sonosentitizer in a patient’s body with higher penetration ultrasound and inducing the free radicals. Titanium dioxide has attracted the most attention due to its properties among many nanosensitizers. Hence, in this study, carbon doped titanium dioxide, one of inorganic materials, is applied to avoid the foregoing, and furthermore, carbon doped titanium dioxide is used to generate ROS under ultrasound irradiation to eliminate tumor cells. Spherical carbon doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles are synthesized by the sol-gel process. The forming of C-Ti-O bond may also induce defects in lattice which would be beneficial for the phenomenon of sonoluminescence to improve the effectiveness of sonodynamic therapy. By dint of DCFDA, WST-1, LDH and the Live/Dead test, carbon doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles are shown to be a biocompatible material which may induce ROS radicals to suppress the proliferation of 4T1 breast cancer cells under ultrasound treatment. From in vivo study, carbon doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles activated by ultrasound may inhibit the growth of the 4T1 tumor, and it showed a significant difference between sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and the other groups on the seventh day of the treatment.
Folic Acid/Methotrexate Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoflakes from Different Supports: Comparative Study
Authors: Trukawka Martyna , Cendrowski Krzysztof , Konicki Wojciech , Mijowska Ewa
Published: September 2020

Herein, we present a facile synthesis route for the mesoporous silica nanoflakes on two types of templates and evaluate their potential as potential drug delivery systems. Silica materials are attractive due to their biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, high surface area, and tunable pores. In addition, they can be multifunctionalized. These properties were used to create multifunctional drug delivery systems combining folic acid as a target molecule and methotrexate (MTX) as an anticancer drug. The silica nanoflakes were formed using graphene oxide and double-layered hydroxide as templates, respectively. After the removal of matrices, the silica flakes were functionalized by folic acid and loaded with methotrexate. The differences in drug release performance and structural stability were analyzed with respect to the detailed physicochemical characterization of the produced silica nanoflakes.
Automatic Shadow Detection for Multispectral Satellite Remote Sensing Images in Invariant Color Spaces
Authors: Han Hongyin , Han Chengshan , Lan Taiji , Huang Liang , Hu Changhong , Xue Xucheng
Published: September 2020

Shadow often results in difficulties for subsequent image applications of multispectral satellite remote sensing images, like object recognition and change detection. With continuous improvement in both spatial and spectral resolutions of satellite remote sensing images, a more serious impact occurs on satellite remote sensing image interpretation due to the existence of shadow. Though various shadow detection methods have been developed, problems of both shadow omission and nonshadow misclassification still exist for detecting shadow well in high-resolution multispectral satellite remote sensing images. These shadow detection problems mainly include high small shadow omission and typical nonshadow misclassification (like bluish and greenish nonshadow misclassification, and large dark nonshadow misclassification). For further resolving these problems, a new shadow index is developed based on the analysis of the property difference between shadow and the corresponding nonshadow with several multispectral band components (i.e., near-infrared, red, green and blue components) and hue and intensity components in various invariant color spaces (i.e., HIS, HSV, CIELCh, YCbCr and YIQ), respectively. The shadow mask is further acquired by applying an optimal threshold determined automatically on the shadow index image. The final shadow image is further optimized with a definite morphological operation of opening and closing. The proposed algorithm is verified with many images from WorldView-3 and WorldView-2 acquired at different times and sites. The proposed algorithm performance is particularly evaluated by qualitative visual sense comparison and quantitative assessment of shadow detection results in comparative experiments with two WorldView-3 test images of Tripoli, Libya. Both the better visual sense and the higher overall accuracy (over 92% for the test image Tripoli-1 and approximately 91% for the test image Tripoli-2) of the experimental results together deliver the excellent performance and robustness of the proposed shadow detection approach for shadow detection of high-resolution multispectral satellite remote sensing images. The proposed shadow detection approach is promised to further alleviate typical shadow detection problems of high small shadow omission and typical nonshadow misclassification for high-resolution multispectral satellite remote sensing images.
Overall Equipment Effectiveness: Systematic Literature Review and Overview of Different Approaches
Authors: Ng Corrales Lisbeth del Carmen , Lambán María Pilar , Hernandez Korner Mario Enrique , Royo Jesús
Published: September 2020

Overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is a key performance indicator used to measure equipment productivity. The purpose of this study is to review and analyze the evolution of OEE, present modifications made over the original model and identify future development areas. This paper presents a systematic literature review; a structured and transparent study is performed by establishing procedures and criteria that must be followed for selecting relevant evidences and addressing research questions effectively. In a general search, 862 articles were obtained; after eliminating duplicates and applying certain inclusion and exclusion criteria, 186 articles were used for this review. This research presents three principal results: (1) The academic interest in this topic has increased over the last five years and the keywords have evolved from being related to maintenance and production, to being related to lean manufacturing and optimization; (2) A list of authors who have developed models based on OEE has been created; and (3) OEE is an emerging topic in areas such as logistics and services. To the best of our knowledge, no comparable review has been published recently. This research serves as a basis for future relevant studies.
Parametric Mapping of Quantum Regime in Fenna–Matthews–Olson Light-Harvesting Complexes: A Synthetic Review of Models, Methods and Approaches
Authors: González-Soria Bruno , Delgado Francisco , Anaya-Morales Alan
Published: September 2020

Developments in ultrafast-spectroscopy techniques have revealed notably long-lived quantum coherence between electronic states in Fenna–Matthews–Olson complex bacteriochlorophylls, a group of molecules setting a nanoscale structure responsible of the coherent energy transfer in the photosynthetic process of green sulfur bacteria. Despite the experimental advances, such a task should normally be complemented with physical computer simulations to understand its complexity. Several methods have been explored to model this quantum phenomenon, mainly using the quantum open systems theory as a first approach. The traditional methods used in this approach do not take into account the memory effects of the surroundings, which is commonly approximated as a phonon bath on thermal equilibrium. To surpass such an approximation, this article applies the Hierarchical Equations of Motion method, a non-markovian approach also used to analyze the dynamic of such a complex, for the modeling of the system evolution. We perform a parametric analysis about some physical features in the quantum regime involved during the quantum excitation process in order to get a comprehension about its non-trivial dependence on operation parameters. Thus, the analysis is conducted in terms of some relevant physical parameters in the system to track the complex global behavior in aspects as coherence, entanglement, decoherence times, transference times, and efficiency of the main process of energy capturing. As a complementary analysis from the derived outcomes, we compare those features for two different species as a suggestive possible roadmap to track genetic differences in the photosynthetic performance of the complex through its biological nature.
Cr(VI) Sorption from Aqueous Solution: A Review
Authors: Fenti Angelo , Chianese Simeone , Iovino Pasquale , Musmarra Dino , Salvestrini Stefano
Published: September 2020

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in water systems is a major hazard for living organisms, including humans. The most popular technology currently used to remove Cr(VI) from polluted water is sorption for its effectiveness, ease of use, low cost and environmental friendliness. The electrostatic interactions between chromium species and the sorbent matrix are the main determinants of Cr(VI) sorption. The pH plays a central role in the process by affecting chromium speciation and the net charge on sorbent surface. In most cases, Cr(VI) sorption is an endothermic process whose kinetics is satisfactorily described by the pseudo second-order model. A critical survey of the recent literature, however, reveals that the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters reported for Cr(VI) sorption are often incorrect and/or erroneously interpreted.
Assessment of Children’s Potential Exposure to Bioburden in Indoor Environments
Authors: Viegas Carla , Almeida Beatriz , Dias Marta , Caetano Liliana , Carolino Elisabete , Gomes Anita , Faria Tiago , Martins Vânia , Marta Almeida Susana
Published: September 2020

The exposure to particles and bioaerosols has been associated with the increase in health effects in children. The objective of this study was to assess the indoor exposure to bioburden in the indoor microenvironments more frequented by children. Air particulate matter (PM) and settled dust were sampled in 33 dwellings and four schools with a medium volume sampler and with a passive method using electrostatic dust collectors (EDC), respectively. Settled dust collected by EDC was analyzed by culture-based methods (including azole resistance profile) and using qPCR. Results showed that the PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in classrooms (31.15 μg/m3 and 57.83 μg/m3, respectively) were higher than in homes (15.26 μg/m3 and 18.95 μg/m3, respectively) and highly exceeded the limit values established by the Portuguese legislation for indoor air quality. The fungal species most commonly found in bedrooms was Penicillium sp. (91.79%), whereas, in living rooms, it was Rhizopus sp. (37.95%). Aspergillus sections with toxigenic potential were found in bedrooms and living rooms and were able to grow on VOR. Although not correlated with PM, EDC provided information regarding the bioburden. Future studies, applying EDC coupled with PM assessment, should be implemented to allow for a long-term integrated sample of organic dust.
The Inhibition of Complement System in Formal and Emerging Indications: Results from Parallel One-Stage Pairwise and Network Meta-Analyses of Clinical Trials and Real-Life Data Studies
Authors: Bernuy-Guevara Coralina , Chehade Hassib , Muller Yannick D. , Vionnet Julien , Cachat François , Guzzo Gabriella , Ochoa-Sangrador Carlos , Álvarez F. Javier , Teta Daniel , Martín-García Débora , Adler Marcel , de Paz Félix J. , Lizaraso-Soto Frank , Pascual Manuel , Herrera-Gómez Francisco
Published: September 2020

This manuscript presents quantitative findings on the actual effectiveness of terminal complement component 5 (C5) inhibitors and complement component 1 (C1) esterase inhibitors through their formal and common “off-label” (compassionate) indications. The results emanated from pairwise and network meta-analyses to present evidence until September 2019. Clinical trials (CT) and real-life non-randomized studies of the effects of interventions (NRSI) are consistent on the benefits of C5 inhibitors and of the absence of effects of C1 esterase inhibitors (n = 7484): Mathematically, eculizumab (surface under the cumulative ranking area (SUCRA) >0.6) and ravulizumab (SUCRA ≥ 0.7) were similar in terms of their protective effect on hemolysis in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), and acute kidney injury (AKI) in aHUS, in comparison to pre-/off-treatment state and/or placebo (SUCRA < 0.01), and eculizumab was efficacious on thrombotic events in PNH (odds ratio (OR)/95% confidence interval (95% CI) in CT and real-life NRSI, 0.07/0.03 to 0.19, 0.24/0.17 to 0.33) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurrence/progression in PNH (0.31/0.10 to 0.97, 0.66/0.44 to 0.98). In addition, meta-analysis on clinical trials shows that eculizumab mitigates a refractory generalized myasthenia gravis (rgMG) crisis (0.29/0.13 to 0.61) and prevents new acute antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) episodes in kidney transplant recipients (0.25/0.13 to 0.49). The update of findings from this meta-analysis will be useful to promote a better use of complement inhibitors, and to achieve personalization of treatments with this class of drugs.
Accurate Measurement of Copper Overload in an Experimental Model of Wilson Disease by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kim Philipp , Zhang Chengcheng Christine , Thoröe-Boveleth Sven , Weiskirchen Sabine , Gaisa Nadine Therese , Buhl Eva Miriam , Stremmel Wolfgang , Merle Uta , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: September 2020

Wilson disease is a rare inherited autosomal recessive disorder. As a consequence of genetic alterations in the ATP7B gene, copper begins to accumulate in the body, particularly in the liver and brain. Affected persons are prone to develop liver cancer and severe psychiatric and neurological symptoms. Clinically, the development of corneal Kayser-Fleischer rings and low ceruloplasmin concentrations (<20 mg/dL) are indicative of Wilson disease. However, the detection of elevated hepatic copper content (>250 µg/g dry weight) alone is still considered as the best but not exclusive diagnostic test for Wilson disease. Presently, specific copper stains (e.g., rhodanine) or indirect staining for copper-associated proteins (e.g., orcein) are widely used to histochemically visualize hepatic copper deposits. However, these procedures only detect lysosomal copper, while cytosolic copper is not detectable. Similarly, elemental analysis in scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) often leads to false negative results and inconsistencies. Here, we tested the diagnostic potential of laser ablation inductively-coupled mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) that allows quantitative analysis of multiple elements. Comparative studies were performed in wild type and the Atp7b null mouse model. We propose LA-ICP-MS as a versatile and powerful method for the accurate determination of hepatic copper in people with Wilson disease with high spatial resolution.
High-Dimensional Analysis of Immune Cell Composition Predicts Periprosthetic Joint Infections and Dissects Its Pathophysiology
Authors: Korn Maximilian , Stein Richard , Dolf Andreas , Shakeri Farhad , Buness Andreas , Hilgers Cäcilia , Masson Werner , Gravius Sascha , Kohlhof Hendrik , Burger Christof , Wirtz Dieter , Randau Thomas , Schildberg Frank
Published: September 2020

Accurate diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) is one of the most widely researched areas in modern orthopedic endoprosthesis. However, our understanding of the immunological basis of this severe complication is still limited. In this study, we developed a flow cytometric approach to precisely characterize the immune cell composition in periprosthetic joints. Using high-dimensional multi-parametric data, we defined, for the first time, the local immune cell populations of artificial joints. We identified significant differences in the cellular distribution between infected and non-infected samples, and revealed that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) act as potential regulators of infiltrating immune cells in PJI. Further, we developed an algorithm to predict septic and aseptic samples with high sensitivity and specificity, that may serve as an indispensable addition to the current criteria of the Musculoskeletal Infection Society. This study describes a novel approach to flow cytometrically analyze the immune cell infiltrate of joint fluid that not only improves our understanding of the pathophysiology of PJI, but also enables the development of a novel screening tool to predict infection status. Our data further suggest that pharmacological targeting of MDSCs represents a novel strategy for addressing PJI.
Facile Synthesis of Antimicrobial Aloe Vera-“Smart” Triiodide-PVP Biomaterials
Authors: Edis Zehra , Bloukh Samir Haj
Published: September 2020

Antibiotic resistance is an eminent threat for the survival of mankind. Nosocomial infections caused by multidrug resistant microorganisms are a reason for morbidity and mortality worldwide. Plant-based antimicrobial agents are based on synergistic mechanisms which prevent resistance and have been used for centuries against ailments. We suggest the use of cost-effective, eco-friendly Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller (AV)-iodine biomaterials as a new generation of antimicrobial agents. In a facile, one-pot synthesis, we encapsulated fresh AV gel with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a stabilizing agent and incorporated iodine moieties in the form of iodine (I2) and sodium iodide (NaI) into the polymer matrix. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), microstructural analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) verified the composition of AV-PVP-I2, AV-PVP-I2-NaI. AV, AV-PVP, AV-PVP-I2, AV-PVP-I2-NaI, and AV-PVP-NaI were tested in-vitro by disc diffusion assay and dip-coated on polyglycolic acid (PGA) sutures against ten microbial reference strains. All the tested pathogens were more susceptible towards AV-PVP-I2 due to the inclusion of “smart” triiodides with halogen bonding in vitro and on dip-coated sutures. The biocomplexes AV-PVP-I2, AV-PVP-I2-NaI showed remarkable antimicrobial properties. “Smart” biohybrids with triiodide inclusions have excellent antifungal and promising antimicrobial activities, with potential use against surgical site infections (SSI) and as disinfecting agents.
Immobilization of Aldoxime Dehydratases and Their Use as Biocatalysts in Aqueous Reaction Media
Authors: Hinzmann Alessa , Stricker Michael , Gröger Harald
Published: September 2020

Immobilization of biocatalysts is a current topic in research enabling the easy recovery of catalysts from the reaction medium after the reaction, and it is often accompanied by a stabilization of the catalysts, which enables recycling. Within our ongoing research on the utilization of aldoxime dehydratases in the cyanide-free synthesis of nitriles through dehydration of readily available aldoximes, a screening of different immobilization methods for free enzymes was performed. The applied immobilization methods are based on covalent binding and hydrophobic interactions of the enzyme with the carrier material and whole-cell immobilization in calcium alginate beads with and without subsequent coating. In our study, we found that the immobilization with purified free aldoxime dehydratases from OxdRE (Rhodococcus erythropolis) and OxdB (Bacillus sp. strain OxB-1) leads to high immobilization efficiencies, but also to a strong loss of activity with a residual activity of <20%, regardless of the carrier material used. However, when using whole cells for immobilization instead of purified enzymes, we could increase the residual activity significantly. Escherichia coli BL21(DE3)-CodonPlus-RIL OxdRE and OxdB whole cells were entrapped in calcium alginate beads and coated with silica using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), leading to immobilized catalysts with up to 75% residual activity and a higher stability compared to the free whole cells. Even after three rounds of recycling, which corresponds to a 3 d reaction time, the immobilized OxdB whole cells showed a residual activity of 85%.
Hyaluronic Acid Biomaterials for Central Nervous System Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Jensen Gregory , Holloway Julianne L. , Stabenfeldt Sarah E.
Published: September 2020

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a primary component of the brain extracellular matrix and functions through cellular receptors to regulate cell behavior within the central nervous system (CNS). These behaviors, such as migration, proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation contribute to maintenance and homeostasis of the CNS. However, such equilibrium is disrupted following injury or disease leading to significantly altered extracellular matrix milieu and cell functions. This imbalance thereby inhibits inherent homeostatic processes that support critical tissue health and functionality in the CNS. To mitigate the damage sustained by injury/disease, HA-based tissue engineering constructs have been investigated for CNS regenerative medicine applications. HA’s effectiveness in tissue healing and regeneration is primarily attributed to its impact on cell signaling and the ease of customizing chemical and mechanical properties. This review focuses on recent findings to highlight the applications of HA-based materials in CNS regenerative medicine.
Role of GPER-Mediated Signaling in Testicular Functions and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Chimento Adele , De Luca Arianna , Nocito Marta Claudia , Avena Paola , La Padula Davide , Zavaglia Lucia , Pezzi Vincenzo
Published: September 2020

Estrogen signaling plays important roles in testicular functions and tumorigenesis. Fifteen years ago, it was discovered that a member of the G protein-coupled receptor family, GPR30, which binds also with high affinity to estradiol and is responsible, in part, for the rapid non-genomic actions of estrogens. GPR30, renamed as GPER, was detected in several tissues including germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids) and somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells). In our previous review published in 2014, we summarized studies that evidenced a role of GPER signaling in mediating estrogen action during spermatogenesis and testis development. In addition, we evidenced that GPER seems to be involved in modulating estrogen-dependent testicular cancer cell growth; however, the effects on cell survival and proliferation depend on specific cell type. In this review, we update the knowledge obtained in the last years on GPER roles in regulating physiological functions of testicular cells and its involvement in neoplastic transformation of both germ and somatic cells. In particular, we will focus our attention on crosstalk among GPER signaling, classical estrogen receptors and other nuclear receptors involved in testis physiology regulation.
Twinning in Zr-Based Metal-Organic Framework Crystals
Authors: Øien-Ødegaard Sigurd , Lillerud Karl
Published: September 2020

Ab initio structure determination of new metal-organic framework (MOF) compounds is generally done by single crystal X-ray diffraction, but this technique can yield incorrect crystal structures if crystal twinning is overlooked. Herein, the crystal structures of three Zirconium-based MOFs, that are especially prone to twinning, have been determined from twinned crystals. These twin laws (and others) could potentially occur in many MOFs or related network structures, and the methods and tools described herein to detect and treat twinning could be useful to resolve the structures of affected crystals. Our results highlight the prevalence (and sometimes inevitability) of twinning in certain Zr-MOFs. Of special importance are the works of Howard Flack which, in addition to fundamental advances in crystallography, provide accessible tools for inexperienced crystallographers to take twinning into account in structure elucidation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Ferroelectrics
Authors: Dec Jan
Published: September 2020

Ferroelectrics belong to one of the most studied groups of materials in terms of research and applications [...]
The Biosorption Capacity of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae for Cadmium in Milk
Authors: Massoud Ramona , Khosravi-Darani Kianoush , Sharifan Anousheh , Asadi Gholam Hassan , Younesi Habibollah
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Cadmium absorption in milk. Nowadays, one of the most serious problems of the industrialized world is heavy metal pollution. Applying microorganisms as novel biotechnology is very useful, especially in foodstuffs. Among the biosorbents used for heavy metal removal, Saccharomyces cerevisiae has received increasing attention due to its popularity in the food industry. In this regard, the effects of some important factors such as the initial metal concentration, biomass concentration and contact time on the biosorption capacity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were studied. The biosorption was analyzed by the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The maximum cadmium (Cd) removal (70%) was at 80 μg/L of Cd concentration in milk samples containing 30 × 108 CFU Saccharomyces cerevisiae at the end of storage time (the 4th day). There were no significant differences in the sensory and physicochemical properties (pH, acidity and density) of milk samples during storage (p < 0.05). The isotherm studies were followed by two popular models, Langmuir and Freundlich, and the results showed a better fit to the Langmuir isotherm. Altogether, the results of this study demonstrate that the approach of using this valuable yeast could be applied for food detoxification and producing healthier foodstuffs.
Sepsis Diagnostics: Intensive Care Scoring Systems Superior to MicroRNA Biomarker Testing
Authors: Link Fabian , Krohn Knut , Burgdorff Anna-Maria , Christel Annett , Schumann Julia
Published: September 2020

Sepsis represents a serious medical problem accounting for numerous deaths of critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs). An early, sensitive, and specific diagnosis is considered a key element for improving the outcome of sepsis patients. In addition to classical laboratory markers, ICU scoring systems and serum miRNAs are discussed as potential sepsis biomarkers. In the present prospective observational study, the suitability of miRNAs in sepsis diagnosis was tested based on proper validated and normalized data (i.e., absolute quantification by means of Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)) in direct comparison to classical sepsis markers and ICU scores within the same patient cohort. Therefore, blood samples of septic intensive care patients (n = 12) taken at day of admission at ICU were compared to non-septic intensive care patients (n = 12) and a healthy control group (n = 12). Our analysis indicates that all tested biomarkers have only a moderate informative power and do not allow an unequivocal differentiation between septic and non-septic ICU patients. In conclusion, there is no standalone laboratory parameter that enables a reliable diagnosis of sepsis. miRNAs are not superior to classical parameters in this respect. It seems recommendable to measure multiple parameters and scores and to interpret them with regard to the clinical presentation.
Automatic Prediction and Assessment of Treatment Response in Patients with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Using a Whole-Body DW-MRI Based Approach
Authors: Brancato Valentina , Aiello Marco , Della Pepa Roberta , Basso Luca , Garbino Nunzia , Nicolai Emanuele , Picardi Marco , Salvatore Marco , Cavaliere Carlo
Published: September 2020

The lack of validation and standardization represents the main drawback for a clear role of whole-body diffusion weighted imaging (WB-DWI) for prediction and assessment of treatment response in Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL). We explored the reliability of an automatic approach based on the WB-DWI technique for prediction and assessment of response to treatment in patients with HL. The study included 20 HL patients, who had whole-body positron emission tomography (PET)/ magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) performed before, during and after chemotherapy. Using the syngo.via MR Total Tumor Load tool, we automatically extracted values of diffusion volume (DV) and its associated histogram features by WB-DWI images, and evaluated their utility in predicting and assessing interim and end-of-treatment (EOT) response. The Mann–Whitney test followed by receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed between features and their inter-time point percentage differences for patients having a complete or partial treatment response, revealing that several WB-DWI associated features allowed for prediction of interim response and both prediction and assessment of EOT response. Our proposed method offers huge advantages in terms of saving time and work, enabling clinicians to draw conclusions relating to HL treatment response in a fully automatic way, and encloses, also, all DWI advantages compared to PET/ computed tomography (CT).
Energy and Exergy Analysis of Sensible Thermal Energy Storage—Hot Water Tank for a Large CHP Plant in Poland
Authors: Zwierzchowski Ryszard , Wołowicz Marcin
Published: September 2020

The paper contains a simplified energy and exergy analysis of pumps and pipelines system integrated with Thermal Energy Storage (TES). The analysis was performed for a combined heat and power plant (CHP) supplying heat to the District Heating System (DHS). The energy and exergy efficiency for the Block Part of the Siekierki CHP Plant in Warsaw was estimated. CHP Plant Siekierki is the largest CHP plant in Poland and the second largest in Europe. The energy and exergy analysis was executed for the three different values of ambient temperature. It is according to operation of the plant in different seasons: winter season (the lowest ambient temperature Tex = −20 °C, i.e., design point conditions), the intermediate season (average ambient temperature Tex = 1 °C), and summer (average ambient temperature Tex = 15 °C). The presented results of the analysis make it possible to identify the places of the greatest exergy destruction in the pumps and pipelines system with TES, and thus give the opportunity to take necessary improvement actions. Detailed results of the energy-exergy analysis show that both the energy consumption and the rate of exergy destruction in relation to the operation of the pumps and pipelines system of the CHP plant with TES for the tank charging and discharging processes are low.
Effects of Fast Elongation on Switching Arcs Characteristics in Fast Air Switches
Authors: Kadivar Ali , Niayesh Kaveh
Published: September 2020

This paper is devoted to investigating the effects of high-speed elongation of arcs inside ultra-fast switches (ucontact≈ 5–80 m/s), through a 2-D time-dependent model, in Cartesian coordinates. Two air arcs in series, one between a stationary anode and a moving cathode and the other between a stationary cathode and a moving anode in the arc chamber, are considered. A variable speed experimental setup through a Thomson drive actuator is designed to support this study. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) equations system is solved for fluid velocity, pressure, temperature, and electric potential, as well as the magnetic vector potential. Electron emission mechanisms on the contact surface and induced current density due to magnetic field changes are also considered to describe the arc root formation, arc bending, lengthening, and calculating the arc current density, as well as the contact temperatures, in a better way. Data processing techniques are utilized to derive instantaneous core shape and profiles of the arc to investigate thermo-electrical characteristics during the elongation progress. The results are compared with another experimentally verified magnetohydrodynamics model of a fixed-length, free-burning arc in the air. The simulation and experimental results confirm each other.
A Powerful Build-Up Rate (BUR) Prediction Method for the Static Push-the-Bit Rotary Steerable System (RSS)
Authors: Shi Yucai , Teng Zhixiang , Guan Zhichuan , Bai Jing , Lv Wei , Liao Hualin , Xu Yuqiang , Liu Yongwang
Published: September 2020

The RSS has been widely used in directional drilling. In order to enhance wellpath control accuracy and efficiency of the static push-the-bit RSS, a powerful BUR prediction method is reconstructed by coupling a rotary steerable bottom-hole assembly (RSBHA) mechanical model and a drill bit–rock interaction model. This article showed that when establishing the RSBHA mechanical model by using the continuous beam column method, the steering rib should be treated as an eccentric stabilizer to consider the contact effect between the steering rib and wellbore wall. For the beam column containing the flexible sub and between two stabilizers, it should be rearranged into three beam columns, and the lower and upper steps of the flexible sub should be considered as virtual supports. The equilibrium tendency method (ETM) to predict the BUR can enhance wellpath prediction accuracy than those of traditional methods. Under 3D conditions, the total drilling tendency angle should be denoted by inclination tendency angle and azimuth tendency angle to enhance the solution efficiency. Case analyses have verified that the average forecast error of the BUR prediction model in this article is less than 1°/30 m.
Development of Optimal Design Method for Ground-Source Heat-Pump System Using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Moon Hyeongjin , Jeon Jae-Young , Nam Yujin
Published: September 2020

The building sector is an energy-consuming sector, and the development of zero-energy buildings (ZEBs) is necessary to address this. A ZEB’s active components include a system that utilizes renewable energy. There is a heat-pump system using geothermal energy. The system is available regardless of weather conditions and time, and it has attracted attention as a high-performance energy system due to its stability and efficiency. However, initial investment costs are higher than other renewable energy sources. To solve this problem, design optimization for the capacity of geothermal heat-pump systems should be performed. In this study, a capacity optimization design of a geothermal heat-pump system was carried out according to building load pattern, and emphasis was placed on cost aspects. Building load patterns were modeled into hospitals, schools, and apartments, and, as a result of optimization, the total cost over 20 years in all building load patterns was reduced.