bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated Concentrations of Soluble Fas and FasL in Multiple Sclerosis Patients with Antinuclear Antibodies
Authors: Sremec Josip , Tomasović Sanja , Tomić Sremec Nada , Šućur Alan , Košćak Lukač Jelena , Bačić Baronica Koraljka , Grčević Danka , Kovačić Nataša
Published: November 2020

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are currently considered as an epiphenomenon of apoptotic processes, possibly in control of autoreactivity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Apoptosis of reactive lymphocytes by the Fas/FasL system is described as an effective control mechanism for autoreactivity in MS. We aimed to provide a context to the potential link between ANA and peripheral lymphocyte apoptosis in MS. The presence of ANA was detected in sera by immunofluorescence assay, and concentrations of sFas and sFasL were determined in the sera of 44 and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 11 relapsing-remitting (RR) MS patients using cytometric bead-based array, and their association with the disease characteristics was determined. ANA were detected in the sera of 43.2% of RRMS patients, and their frequency was the highest in patients with disease duration of less than one year (88,89%). In addition, the number of experienced relapses was lower in ANA-positive patients. Concentrations of sFasL were inversely associated with patients’ expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores. Low concentrations of both soluble factors strongly discriminated patients with moderate to severe disability, from patients with mild or absent disability only in a group of patients with prolonged disease duration (>10 years). Both soluble mediators were significantly higher in ANA-positive patients. FasL concentrations were inversely associated with the number of relapses. There is a potential link between the presence of ANA and peripheral lymphocyte apoptosis mediated by Fas/FasL system in MS, whose precise role and significance needs to be determined by future mechanistic studies.
Relationship between N95 Amplitude of Pattern Electroretinogram and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Lee Taekjune , Seo Du Ri , Kim Joo Yeon , Choi Wungrak , Lee Sang Yeop , Lee Jun Mo , Seong Gong Je , Kim Chan Yun , Bae Hyoung Won
Published: November 2020

Purpose: The pattern electroretinogram (PERG) is useful to detect retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage in patients with glaucoma. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) measures retinal vessel density (VD), which is known to be reduced in glaucoma. There may be correlations between parameters of the PERG and OCTA in open-angle glaucoma (OAG). Methods: In total, 95 eyes of 95 OAG patients and 102 eyes of 102 normal controls were included in this study. N35, P50, and N95 latency along with P50 and N95 amplitude were obtained using the PERG. Retinal VD was measured around the peripapillary and macular area according to the ETDRS grid (concentric circles with diameters of 1, 3, and 6 mm), which is named a center (≤1 mm), an inner (1–3 mm), an outer (3–6 mm), and a full (≤6 mm) area. Pearson correlation analysis was done between parameters, and partial correlation analysis was done after adjusting confounding factors. Results: P50 amplitude, N95 amplitude, and VD of most measured areas were significantly lower in the OAG group compared to the normal group. N95 amplitude showed a statistically significant correlation with parameters of optical coherence tomography and visual field, peripapillary outer and full VD, and macular outer and full VD even after adjusting confounding factors. There was no significant correlation between parameters in the normal group. Conclusions: N95 amplitude was associated with structural and functional change including VD reduction in OAG. Microvascular alterations may be associated with dysfunctional changes of RGC recorded by the PERG in OAG.
Diversity of Epiphytic Bacterial Communities Associated with Adriatic Fucacean Species Phycosphere
Authors: Blažina Maria , Iveša Ljiljana , Matošović Ksenija , Pustijanac Emina , Devescovi Massimo , Pritišanac Ena , Fafanđel Maja , Batel Renato
Published: November 2020

The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between membrane-regulating functional lipids of three fucacean species and their associated epiphytic bacterial communities. The analyzed algae Treptacantha barbata, Carpodesmia crinita and Cystoseira compressa, formerly classified under the Cystoseira genus, are indigenous to the Adriatic Sea. The thalli of sampled Fucales species were divided into perennial and annual parts. T. barbata and C. crinita show high contents of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids but, however, show a clear distinction between branches, cauloids and apical parts. Along with the highest unsaturation degree (4.32), the C. crinita branches and apical parts demonstrated high proportion of both C18 and C20 polyunsaturated fatty acids, with eicosapentaenoic (C20:5 n-3) and arachidonic (C20:4 n-6) fatty acids up to 5.46% and 13.82%, respectively. The highest proportion of saturated fatty acids was found in thalli of C. compressa, particularly on cauloids and old branches (≥90%). The similarity profile routine analysis of fatty acids and microbial community structure has shown clear separation of the cauloids and apical parts from the branches of C. crinita and T. barbata. Based on the nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis several representatives of the Gammaproteobacteria class, identified as Vibrionales (Vibrio), Cellvibrionales and Xanthomonadales, which contributed strongly to the separation of T. barbata apical parts and branches, C. compressa receptacles and C. crinita branches from the T. barbata cauloids and C. crinita apical parts and cauloids. The highest richness in polyunsaturated fatty acids, in particular C18:3(n-3), C20:4(n-6) and C20:5(n-3), was observed on branches, accompanied by a distinctive epiphytic microbial structure dominated by numerous representatives with potentially beneficial biological activity. The results showed a strong relationship between fatty acid profiles of the analyzed species and phycosphere community structure, underlining the host physiological condition in shaping the biological interactions and maintaining a healthy microbiome, as well as compiling the ecophysiological and molecular research in order to better assess the resilience of the ecosystem.
Anatomy and Ultrastructure of the Cyprid Temporary Adhesive System in Two Species of Acorn Barnacle
Authors: Raine Joshua J. , Aldred Nick , Clare Anthony S.
Published: November 2020

Acorn barnacles are sessile as adults and select their settlement site as a cypris larva. Cyprids are well adapted to exploring surfaces in dynamic environments, using a temporary adhesive secreted from the antennules to adhere during this process. The temporary adhesive and the secretory structures are poorly characterized. This study used serial block-face scanning electron microscopy and three-dimensional modelling to elucidate the anatomy related to temporary adhesion. The temporary adhesive glands of two acorn barnacle species, Balanus amphitrite and Megabalanus coccopoma, were located in the proximal region of the first antennular segment, contrary to previous descriptions that placed them in the more distal second segment. The temporary adhesive systems of these acorn barnacles are therefore similar to that described for the stalked barnacle, Octolasmis angulata, although not identical. Knowledge of the true location of the temporary adhesive glands will underpin future studies of the production, composition and secretion of the adhesive.
The Emerging Role of CD24 in Cancer Theranostics—A Novel Target for Fluorescence Image-Guided Surgery in Ovarian Cancer and Beyond
Authors: Kleinmanns Katrin , Fosse Vibeke , Bjørge Line , McCormack Emmet
Published: November 2020

Complete cytoreductive surgery is the cornerstone of the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). The application of fluorescence image-guided surgery (FIGS) allows for the increased intraoperative visualization and delineation of malignant lesions by using fluorescently labeled targeting biomarkers, thereby improving intraoperative guidance. CD24, a small glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored cell surface receptor, is overexpressed in approximately 70% of solid cancers, and has been proposed as a prognostic and therapeutic tumor-specific biomarker for EOC. Recently, preclinical studies have demonstrated the benefit of CD24-targeted contrast agents for non-invasive fluorescence imaging, as well as improved tumor resection by employing CD24-targeted FIGS in orthotopic patient-derived xenograft models of EOC. The successful detection of miniscule metastases denotes CD24 as a promising biomarker for the application of fluorescence-guided surgery in EOC patients. The aim of this review is to present the clinical and preclinically evaluated biomarkers for ovarian cancer FIGS, highlight the strengths of CD24, and propose a future bimodal approach combining CD24-targeted fluorescence imaging with radionuclide detection and targeted therapy.
Legal and Technical Issues Management Framework for Peer-to-Peer Networks
Authors: Lawrence Elaine , Lawrence John , Culjak Gordana
Published: November 2020

In the area of electronic and mobile commerce there are unique legal risks as well as concerns that also apply to traditional businesses. This paper reviews the impact of peer-to-peer ebusiness models in a legal and technical context with a view to formulating technical and legal policy suggestions for technologists, scientists, managers and government policy makers. To assist in addressing the intractable nature of the problems the researchers have developed a preliminary Legal Issues Management Framework. Issues such as forensic auditing, technical diligence, lawful intercept and sovereign risk are canvassed as well as the threats to current ebusiness models. Various traditional laws have been successfully applied to electronic transactions and new laws (cyberlaws) have been devised to deal with the latest technologies. Practitioners of P2P businesses must be aware of legal requirements and the risks involved in doing business in cyberspace. The digital economy develops at e-speed but the law does not. This paper outlines the enormous technological advances that impact on P2P business models and illustrates, with international examples, the reactions from international and national legal communities.
E-Prognostics: A Step towards E-Maintenance of Engineering Assets
Authors: Haider Abrar , Koronios Andy
Published: November 2020

Reliability of manufacturing or production processes is heavily dependent upon the flawless operation of asset plant and equipment utilised in the processes. Nevertheless, continuous and seamless flow of information, aimed at real time access to process stakeholders provides the foundation for effective management of these assets. An essential requirement in this regard is the continuous availability of the condition monitoring information and its analyses in order to predict failure conditions as soon as the asset starts deviating away from its standard operational behaviour. This paper presents an integrated approach for prognostics based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. It presents an architecture aimed at introducing information processing capabilities at the asset level, thereby equipping the asset to be proactive in identifying its maintenance requirements wirelessly rather than relying on human interaction to examine the asset for irregularities.
Biometrics and e-Identity (e-Passport) in the European Union: End-User Perspectives on the Adoption of a Controversial Innovation
Authors: Ng-Kruelle Grace , Swatman Paul , Hampe J. Felix , Rebne Douglas
Published: November 2020

This study deals with user acceptability of a proposed e-Passport in the European Union (EU). E-passport is an advanced version of a combined national identity card and travelling document which holds digitised biometric features of its associated individual for enhanced security of personal authentication. We attempt here to investigate the nature of the innovation and citizens’ attitudes to an e-Passport (or analogous innovation) in a range of socio-political-contexts within which the implementation occur. This paper reports the findings of an Internet Survey, conducted as the second part following a larger research program on biometrics-based e- Identity (e-Passport) acceptability and deployment issues. The data collected are interpreted under the guidance of the theoretic framework ‘Price of Convenience’ briefly described and fully referenced herein and theories of national culture after Hofstede [15], [16]. We found that although a direct and complete extrapolation of results from countries of similar cultural dimensions to another is not possible, limited referencing is still possible and provides a rather rich understanding of a country when it is used together with other dimensions of study. Although useful in helping to draw parallels between different countries, Hofstede’s work is not all encompassing. Thus we also proposed other contingency factors and indicators for e-Passport acceptance which can make countries with similar cultural dimensions appear very different in biometric technological adoption.
A Model for Improving e-Security in Australian Universities
Authors: May Lauren , Lane Tim
Published: November 2020

As universities seek to adopt increased e-business, e-commerce and e-learning initiates, the overall approach taken for security management within the organisation plays an increasingly relevant role. In many cases security in universities is approached through the addition of tactical solutions. Often systems security is added on as a final consideration instead of during early design stages. This approach can be incomprehensive and inefficient. Although this approach can provide limited security, there is no guarantee that business requirements for security are incorporated and integrated effectively. This situation is partly due to security management in Australian universities being challenged by the complexity of both university culture and diverse operating environments. In many circumstances the champion for security in universities tends to be relegated to an officer in the IT department, hidden away from the business itself. Often this person with operational responsibility for security will have a detailed understanding of what should occur in security, but faces difficulties in determining exactly how to go about achieving this on an enterprise level. In order to assist in securing university IT systems and thereby improving e-business security, this research proposes a security practitioner’s management model. This model is aimed at facilitating the transition of security knowledge into actual implementation across the enterprise, with an end goal of an improved culture of compliance towards security practices in the university sector. This work is of significant value as it results from a study into specific security management issues facing Australian universities. This study highlights that future research would be well-placed to focus on benchmarking information security management within the university sector.
Revisiting Amit and Zott’s model of value creation sources: The SymBelt Customer Center case
Authors: Johansson Niklas , Mollstedt Ulrika
Published: November 2020

Amit and Zott [2] recognized the importance of understanding value sources in electronic business (ebusiness). However, the concept of e-business is rather broad and therefore this paper suggests a more narrow focus on the value of complementary services. The reason for this approach is an ever-increasing importance for firms to provide complimentary services supporting products. Amit and Zott’s [2] model of the sources of value creation in e-business includes four dimensions of value creation; efficiency, lock-in, complementarities and novelty. In contrast to Amit and Zott [2], we suggest that the four dimensions of the model should not only be used as value creation sources, but moreover as value evaluation dimensions. The findings of this case study, where Metso Paper’s Internet-based service (a complementary service) and some of their customers’ perceptions of the service have been studied, show that the customers have used the services infrequently. This study also shows that in this specific business-to-business context, the characteristics of the product, which the Internet-based service supports, are vital. Therefore, we suggest a modification of Amit and Zott’s [2] business model when used as a model for value evaluation of complementary services, to replace complementarities with nature of the core product.
Shopping Online or Not? Cognition and Personality Matters
Authors: Wang Sophia , Wang Simon , Wang Ming
Published: November 2020

E-commerce has brought both opportunities and challenges to Internet marketers. One challenge facing the marketers is to “convert” Internet users who are reluctant to buy things online to real online shoppers. To enlarge online customer base, it is necessary for researchers and practitioners to understand cognitive and psychological factors involved in a potential online buyer’s decision-making process. Drawing upon consumer innovativeness and technology acceptance research, we developed a conceptual model about how cognition and personality would affect an individual’s attitude toward online shopping and hence his or her purchasing intention. Our findings show that what an individual thinks and feels about online shopping do influence his or her purchasing intention. The individuals who were more risk-taking, open to new experience, and had higher level of self-efficacy appeared to be more prone to buying online. These findings call for further research on consumer psychology in the context of online shopping.
An Electronic Marketplace Based on Reputation and Learning
Authors: Roozmand Omid , Nematbakhsh Mohammad Ali , Baraani Ahmad
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we propose a market model which is based on reputation and reinforcement learning algorithms for buying and selling agents. Three important factors: quality, price and delivery-time are considered in the model. We take into account the fact that buying agents can have different priorities on quality, price and delivery-time of their goods and selling agents adjust their bids according to buying agents preferences. Also we have assumed that multiple selling agents may offer the same goods with different qualities, prices and delivery-times. In our model, selling agents learn to maximize their expected profits by using reinforcement learning to adjust product quality, price and delivery-time. Also each selling agent models the reputation of buying agents based on their profits for that seller and uses this reputation to consider discount for reputable buying agents. Buying agents learn to model the reputation of selling agents based on different features of goods: reputation on quality, reputation on price and reputation on delivery-time to avoid interaction with disreputable selling agents. The model has been implemented with Aglet and tested in a large-sized marketplace. The results show that selling/buying agents that model the reputation of buying/selling agents obtain more satisfaction rather than selling/buying agents who only use the reinforcement learning.
An Exploratory Study of Length and Frequency of Internet Banking Usage
Authors: Kam Booi Hon , Riquelme Hernan
Published: November 2020

The advent of Internet has provided banks an opportunity to reduce costs, increase customer base, and mass customize by delivering their products and services through this medium. A flurry of studies on Internet banking (IB) has since emerged. The majority of these studies, however, have been directed to either IB adoption or IB service quality delivery. With few exceptions, the impact that customer satisfaction with e-banking service qualities has on IB usage remains unexplored. This study examines a sample of Australian IB users based on their frequency and length of usage. The results show that as customers become more acclimatized to IB, they use these services more often. Further, daily and frequent IB users are more pleased with “ease of use” and “aesthetics” and tend to use IB more for electronic fund transfer and foreign exchange transactions than the less frequent users. The findings suggest that banks need to develop more customized services since there are distinct market segments with different banking requirements.
A Conceptual Framework and Propositions for the Acceptance of Mobile Services
Authors: Rao Sally , Troshani Indrit
Published: November 2020

Mobile services are heralded to create a tremendous spectrum of business opportunities. User acceptance of these services is of paramount importance. Consequently, a deeper insight into theory-based research is required to better understand the underlying motivations that lead users to adopting mobile services. As mobile services bring additional functional dimensions, including hedonic and experiential aspects, using extant models for predicting mobile services acceptance by individuals may be inadequate. The aim of this paper is to explore, analyse and critically assess the use of existing acceptance theories in the light of the evolving and ubiquitous mobile services and their underlying technologies. Constructs affecting consumer adoption behaviour are discussed and relevant propositions are made. Managerial implications are explored and future research directions are also identified.
Trading Digital Information Goods Based on Semantic Technologies
Authors: Maass Wolfgang , Behrendt Wernher , Gangemi Aldo
Published: November 2020

Digital information goods constitute a growing class of economic goods. During decision making for a purchase a buyer searches for information about digital information goods, such as information about the content, price and trading information, usage information, how it can be presented, and which legal restrictions apply. We present a logical container model for knowledge-intensive digital information goods (knowledge content object - KCO) that directly references formalised semantic descriptions of key information types on information goods. Key information types are formalised as plug-in slots (facets). Facets can be instantiated by semantic descriptions that are linked with domain ontologies. We have identified six logically congruent facet types by which a user can interpret information goods. KCOs are mediated and managed by a technical middleware, called Knowledge Content Carrier Architecture - KCCA. Based on the technical and logical structure of a KCO we will discuss five economic implications that drive further research.
Self-Regulation of Mobile Marketing Aimed at Children: An Overview of the Spanish Case
Authors: de Miguel Molina María
Published: November 2020

Mobile phones have changed consumer and company behaviour and today they constitute the most direct means of communication between them. Many groups are targeted through promotion campaigns using mobile phones. Children, who in the future will be the largest consumer of new technologies, are one of these groups. Given that current Spanish legislation does not clearly establish what company policy ought to be in relation to promotions aimed at children, self-regulation of the mobile telephone sector is imperative. Spain is already among the developed countries in which one out of every two children has a mobile phone. Firms should pay special attention to this target group. Firstly, because promotional campaigns aimed at children have their peculiarities and secondly because of the legal and ethical protection that children deserve. Company policy, in this sense, should include the drawing up of Codes of Conduct. This article begins by analysing the child segment as mobile phone consumers. It then highlights the legal and ethical problems of mobile campaigns aimed at children, and looks at some studies carried out by the European Commission and the Spanish government. Finally, this paper draws some conclusions about the measures companies should adopt and offers practical help for self-regulation of the mobile telephone sector in Spain and, if possible, in other countries (especially other European countries within the framework of the agreement signed by the leading European mobile operators in 2007 to develop self-regulatory codes by 2008). Moreover, future research needs to centre on whether these measures increase child protection.
A Survey of Electronic Signature Solutions in Mobile Devices
Authors: Ruiz-Martínez Antonio , Sánchez-Martínez Daniel , Martínez-Montesinos María , F. Gómez-Skarmeta Antonio
Published: November 2020

The development of electronic signature in mobile devices is an essential issue for the advance and expansion of the mobile electronic commerce since it provides security and trust in the system. E-signatures provide security for the transactions with authenticity and integrity characteristics that make non-repudiation of the transactions possible. In recent years, different technologies and infrastructures have been developed with the aim of implementing mobile signature processes. Some are based on the SIM card. Others work over the middleware of the mobile device and cryptographic providers. Finally, there are already some frameworks which are independent of specific mobile device technologies and make mobile signatures available to application providers. Therefore, there is a great range of possibilities. In this paper we review the different solutions to date to provide electronic signature in mobile devices (SMS signature, SATK, WIM, USAT-i, SATSA, Mobile signature service, etc). We will comment on the most important goals of each solution and analyse the advantages and disadvantages. From this analysis we will obtain a global view of the current and future tendencies of mobile signature and thus help to provide mobile signature solutions.
Effects of the RFID Mandate on Supply Chain Management
Authors: Soon Chin-Boo , Gutiérrez Jairo A.
Published: November 2020

Recently, radio frequency identification (RFID) is being explored as a technology to be used in supply chain management. The use of RFID in the supply chain is an emerging technology that has attracted a lot of attention in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Major retailers in various continents have given mandates to their suppliers to adopt the technology in order to continue business with them. As a result, there appears to be a shift in power dependency in the supply chain. This has had an impact on how the suppliers adopt RFID to embrace the mandates. The impact is likely to have a long term effect on current business models. Our study into the existing literature reveals three tiers of the effects of mandates. The effects are best examined by separating out the suppliers into two groups: suppliers adopting the technology under the mandates and suppliers not affected by the mandates and adopted a wait-and-see tactic. Moore’s Technology Adoption Life Cycle is used to highlight the chasm between these groups and the early adopters. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to show managers the effects RFID/SC may have on their business models, and (2) to identify possible research areas within the RFID field.
Long-Term Effect of Honeycomb β-Tricalcium Phosphate on Zygomatic Bone Regeneration in Rats
Authors: Nakagiri Ryoko , Watanabe Satoko , Takabatake Kiyofumi , Tsujigiwa Hidetsugu , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Kimata Yoshihiro
Published: November 2020

In recent years, artificial bones with high biocompatibility have been developed for hard tissue reconstruction. However, current bone replacement methods are inadequate for large defects, causing infection, exposure, and damage. We have developed a new honeycomb β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) material, which achieved good bone regeneration after implantation in a rat complete zygomatic bone defect. In this study, we further investigated the ability of honeycomb β- TCP for remodeling after bone regeneration as a long-term result. Bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-2-free honeycomb β-TCP (TCP group) and honeycomb β-TCP with BMP-2 (BMP group) were implanted in the zygomatic bone of rats. Micro-computed tomography was performed to track the zygomatic bone morphology, and specimens were histologically examined for osteogenesis and remodeling. In the TCP group, no bone formation was observed at 1 month, but it was observed at 6 months. Bone formation was observed in the BMP group at 1 month, and β-TCP absorption reproducing the zygomatic bone morphology was observed at 6 months. This honeycomb β-TCP with BMP-2 may provide appropriate remodeling that reproduces good bone formation in the early stage and good morphology in the long term, offering an alternative bone reconstruction material to vascularized bone grafts.
Effect of Ag on Properties, Microstructure, and Thermostability of Cu–Cr Alloy
Authors: Sun Yuqing , Xu Gaolei , Feng Xue , Peng Lijun , Huang Guojie , Xie Haofeng , Mi Xujun , Liu Xinhua
Published: November 2020

Cu–Cr-based alloys exhibit excellent electrical conductivity and strength, but their poor thermal stability limits their application in industry. In this paper, Cu–0.2Cr (at. %) and Cu–0.2Cr–0.12Ag (at. %) alloys were prepared to study the effect of Ag on the properties, microstructure, and thermal stability of the Cu–Cr alloy. Microstructure and precipitation were observed by an optical microscope (OM) and a transmission–electron microscope (TEM). After cold-drawing by 99.9% and aging at 450 °C for 2 h, the peak hardness and electric conductivity of the Cu–Cr alloy were 120.3 HV and 99.5% IACS, respectively, and those of the Cu–Cr–Ag alloy were 135.8 HV and 98.3% IACS, respectively. The softening temperature of the Cu–Cr alloy was 500~525 °C, and that of the Cu–Cr–Ag alloy was about 550 °C. The creep strains of the Cu–Cr and Cu–Cr–Ag alloys at 40 MPa and 400 ℃ for 50 h were 0.18% and 0.05%, respectively. Ag elements improved the thermal stability of the Cu–Cr alloy. Recovery and recrystallization occurred before the coarsening of precipitates during the softening process. Ag atoms mainly improved the softening resistance of the alloy by delaying recrystallization, and mainly increased creep resistance by preventing the increase in mobile-dislocation density.
X-ray Structure and Magnetic Properties of Heterobimetallic Chains Based on the Use of an Octacyanidodicobalt(III) Complex as Metalloligand
Authors: Alexandru Maria-Gabriela , Visinescu Diana , Shova Sergiu , Bentama Abdeslem , Lloret Francesc , Cano Joan , Julve Miguel
Published: November 2020

The assembly of [Co2III(μ-2,5-dpp)(CN)8]2− anions and [MII(CH3OH)2(DMSO)2]2+ cations resulted into the formation of two heterobimetallic 1D coordination polymers of formula [MII(CH3OH)2(DMSO)2(μ-NC)2Co2III(μ-2,5-dpp)(CN)6]n·4nCH3OH [M = CoII (1)/FeII (2) and 2,5-dpp = 2,5-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine. The [Co2III(μ-2,5-dpp)(CN)8]2− metalloligand coordinates the paramagnetic [MII(CH3OH)2(DMSO)2]2+ complex cations, in a bis-monodentate fashion, to give rise to neutral heterobimetallic chains. Cryomagnetic dc (1.9–300 K) and ac (2.0–13 K) magnetic measurements for 1 and 2 show the presence of Co(II)HS (1) and Fe(II)HS (2) ions (HS – high-spin), respectively, with D values of +53.7(5) (1) and −5.1(3) cm−1 (2) and slow magnetic relaxation for 1, this compound being a new example of SIM with transversal magnetic anisotropy. Low-temperature Q-band EPR study of 1 confirms that D value is positive, which reveals the occurrence of a strong asymmetry in the g-tensors and allows a rough estimation of the E/D ratio, whereas 2 is EPR silent. Theoretical calculations by CASSCF/NEVPT2 on 1 and 2 support the results from magnetometry and EPR. The analysis of the ac magnetic measurements of 1 shows that the relaxation of M takes place in the ground state under external magnetic dc fields through dominant Raman and direct spin-phonon processes.
Fucoidans of Moroccan Brown Seaweed as Elicitors of Natural Defenses in Date Palm Roots
Authors: Bouissil Soukaina , Alaoui-Talibi Zainab El , Pierre Guillaume , Rchid Halima , Michaud Philippe , Delattre Cédric , El Modafar Cherkaoui
Published: November 2020

Fucoidans from Moroccan brown seaweed Bifurcaria bifurcata and Fucus spiralis were tested for their elicitor activity after their purification and complete characterization. The fucoidans of B. bifurcata (BBF) and of F. spiralis (FSF) were extracted and purified then characterized by infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and size exclusion chromatography. The results show that BBF and FSF are mainly sulfated with 45.49 and 49.53% (w/w) sulfate, respectively. Analysis of neutral sugars determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry showed that FSF and BBF were mainly composed of 64% and 91% fucose and 20% and 6% galactose, respectively, with a few other sugars such as glucose (8% in FSF), rhamnose (1% in BBF) and mannose (8% in FSF and, 2% in BBF). The eliciting activity of these sulfated polysaccharides in stimulating the natural defenses of the date palm was evaluated through the activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), and the increase in phenols and lignin content in the roots. The results obtained clearly show that the two fucoidans early and intensely stimulate the natural defenses of the date palm after 24 h of treatments. This remarkable elicitor effect seems to be linked to the sulfated groups compared to non-sulfate alginates extracted from the same algae. These results open promising perspectives for a biological control approach against date palm diseases.
Biofunctionality of Enzymatically Derived Peptides from Codfish (Gadus morhua) Frame: Bulk In Vitro Properties, Quantitative Proteomics, and Bioinformatic Prediction
Authors: Jafarpour Ali , Gregersen Simon , Marciel Gomes Rocio , Marcatili Paolo , Hegelund Olsen Tobias , Jacobsen Charlotte , Overgaard Michael Toft , Sørensen Ann-Dorit Moltke
Published: November 2020

Protein hydrolysates show great promise as bioactive food and feed ingredients and for valorization of side-streams from e.g., the fish processing industry. We present a novel approach for hydrolysate characterization that utilizes proteomics data for calculation of weighted mean peptide properties (length, molecular weight, and charge) and peptide-level abundance estimation. Using a novel bioinformatic approach for subsequent prediction of biofunctional properties of identified peptides, we are able to provide an unprecedented, in-depth characterization. The study further characterizes bulk emulsifying, foaming, and in vitro antioxidative properties of enzymatic hydrolysates derived from cod frame by application of Alcalase and Neutrase, individually and sequentially, as well as the influence of heat pre-treatment. All hydrolysates displayed comparable or higher emulsifying activity and stability than sodium caseinate. Heat-treatment significantly increased stability but showed a negative effect on the activity and degree of hydrolysis. Lower degrees of hydrolysis resulted in significantly higher chelating activity, while the opposite was observed for radical scavenging activity. Combining peptide abundance with bioinformatic prediction, we identified several peptides that are likely linked to the observed differences in bulk emulsifying properties. The study highlights the prospects of applying proteomics and bioinformatics for hydrolysate characterization and in food protein science.
The Quality Improvement Challenge—How Nurses and Allied Health Professionals Can Solve the Knowing–Doing Gap in Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS)
Authors: Wainwright Thomas W.
Published: November 2020

The English National Health Service (NHS), and all health services around the world, will continue to face economic and capacity challenges. Quality improvement (QI) interventions, such as Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS), that are proven to improve patient care and deliver operational benefits are therefore needed. However, widespread implementation remains a challenge. Implementation of ERAS within the NHS over the last 10 years is reviewed, with a focus on total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Difficulties with implementation are highlighted, and a recommendation for the future is presented. This perspective is novel in the ERAS literature, and centres around increasing the understanding of perioperative care teams on the need for utilising a recognised QI method (e.g., plan–do–study–act cycles, Lean, and Six Sigma) to implement ERAS protocols (which are a QI intervention) successfully. The importance of differentiating between a QI method and a QI intervention has value across all other ERAS surgical procedures.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Methylcyclohexane Dehydrogenation and Solar Energy Storage via Solar-Driven Hydrogen Permeation Membrane Reactor
Authors: Wang Hongsheng , Wang Bingzheng , Kong Hui , Lu Xiaofei , Hu Xuejiao
Published: November 2020

A novel methylcyclohexane (MCH) dehydrogenation system driven by solar energy with a hydrogen permeation membrane (HPM) reactor is proposed in this study. It is a promising method, via this novel system, to generate pure hydrogen and store intermittent solar energy. In this research, the thermodynamic analysis of MCH dehydrogenation via the HPM reactor was conducted based on numerical simulation. The conversion rates and thermodynamic efficiencies under different temperatures (150–350 °C), permeate pressures from 0.001 to 0.5 bar, and solar irradiation in the four seasons were studied and analyzed. Under a hydrogen partial pressure difference, HPM can separate hydrogen and shift the reaction equilibrium forward for a higher conversion rate of MCH, which can reach nearly 99.7% in this system. The first-law of thermodynamic efficiency, the solar-to-fuel efficiency, and the exergy efficiency are up to 95.58%, 38.65%, and 94.22%, respectively. This study exhibits the feasibility and potential of MCH dehydrogenation via the HPM reactor driven by solar energy and provides a novel approach for solar energy storage.
Impacts of Sulfuric Acid on the Stability and Separation Performance of Polymeric PVDF-Based Membranes at Mild and High Concentrations: An Experimental Study
Authors: Lasisi Kayode , Yao Weihao , Ajibade Temitope , Tian Huali , Fang Fang , Zhang Kaisong
Published: November 2020

This study investigated the effects of an aqueous acidic solution at typical concentrations on polymeric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-based membranes. Flat-sheet PVDF-based membranes were completely embedded in sulfuric acid at varying concentrations. The effect of the acid concentration after a prolonged exposure time on the chemical, mechanical and physical properties of the membrane were checked via FE-SEM, EDX (Energy-Dispersive Spectrometer), FTIR, XRD, tensile strength, zeta potential, contact angle, porosity, pure water flux measurement and visual observation. The result reveals prompt initiation of reaction between the PVDF membrane and sulfuric acid, even at a mild concentration. As the exposure time extends with increasing concentration, the change in chemical and mechanical properties become more pronounced, especially in the morphology, although this was not really noticeable in either the crystalline phase or the functional group analyses. The ultimate mechanical strength decreased from 46.18 ± 0.65 to 32.39 ± 0.22 MPa, while the hydrophilicity was enhanced due to enlargement of the pores. The flux at the highest concentration and exposure period increased by 2.3 times that of the neat membrane, while the BSA (Bovine Serum Albumin) rejection dropped by 55%. Similar to in an alkaline environment, the stability and performance of the PVDF-based membrane analyzed in this study manifested general deterioration.
Study on Constitutive Relation of Nickel-Base Superalloy Inconel 718 Based on Long Short Term Memory Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Mei Han , Lang Lihui , Yang Xiaoguang , Liu Zheng , Li Xiaoxing
Published: November 2020

The high temperature tensile test of Inconel 718 under the conditions of deformation temperature of 950 °C–1100 °C and strain rate of 0.0005 s−1–0.1 s−1 was carried out, and its true stress–true strain curve was drawn. Through the analysis of the flow stress of Inconel 718 under different conditions, it can be seen that the high-temperature rheological behavior of Inconel 718 is affected by the coupling of strain hardening effect and dynamic softening effect, and has significant loading history correlation. By applying the stretched data, a long short term memory (LSTM) recurrent neural network was trained to characterize the constitutive relationship of Inconel 718. The experimental results show that the prediction results of the LSTM constitutive model are extremely consistent with the experimental data, which is significantly better than the modified Johnson–Cook (M-JC) model. Finally, high temperature tensile experiments under variable strain rates were carried out to verify the feasibility of the LSTM constitutive model in the complex loading and unloading stages.
Bubble Formation by Short Plunging Jet in a Continuous Casting Tundish
Authors: Chang Sheng , Liu Zheng , Zou Zongshu , Shao Lei , Li Baokuan
Published: November 2020

A short plunging jet technique was developed to produce small bubbles in continuous casting tundish, with argon sealing, in order to promote the removal of inclusions smaller than 50 μm. The liquid steel coming out of the ladle shroud is accelerated and vibrated by gravity, leading to gas entrainment. This novel approach is free from bubbles growing along the nozzle surface due to the poor wetting condition, which is applicable to producing small bubbles in liquid steel. Water modeling was carried out to investigate the impact of the free-fall length on gas entrainment by a short plunging jet. The results show that gas can be entrained into the liquid bath with a free fall longer than 15 mm. Part of the entrained gas is separated from the gas sheath by the rough surface of the inflow stream, forming initial bubbles. These initial bubbles are further refined into small ones of 0.4~2.5 mm due to the turbulent flow in the pouring region. The cylindrical shield can effectively isolate the surface fluctuation caused by the short plunging jet; thereby, a stable slag layer in the tundish can be maintained during gas entrainment.
Epstein–Barr Virus Reactivation-Induced Immunoglobulin Production: Significance on Autoimmunity
Authors: Nagata Keiko , Hayashi Kazuhiko
Published: November 2020

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) mainly persists in B cells, which differentiate into antibody-producing cells, and thus, EBV has been implicated in autoimmune diseases. We aimed to describe the EBV reactivation and its relevance to autoimmune disease, focusing on Graves’ disease, which is an autoimmune hyperthyroidism caused by thyrotropin receptor antibodies. Circulating autoreactive B cells that have evaded from the selection have difficulties differentiating to produce antibodies. However, once EBV infects such B cells and reactivates, the B cells may become plasma cells and produce autoantibody. We herein proposed an EBV reactivation-induced Ig production system, which is a distinct pathway from the antibody production system through germinal centers and bone marrow and has the following characteristics: 1. IgM dominance, 2. ubiquitous Ig production, and 3. the rescue of autoreactive B cells, which skews Ig production toward autoantigens. IgM autoantibodies induced by EBV reactivation may activate the classical complement pathway and injure healthy tissue, which supply autoantigens for the production of affinity-matured IgG autoantibodies. Antibodies induced by EBV reactivation may play important roles in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases.
Reconstructing Genomes of Carbon Monoxide Oxidisers in Volcanic Deposits Including Members of the Class Ktedonobacteria
Authors: Hernández Marcela , Vera-Gargallo Blanca , Calabi-Floody Marcela , King Gary M. , Conrad Ralf , Tebbe Christoph C.
Published: November 2020

Microorganisms can potentially colonise volcanic rocks using the chemical energy in reduced gases such as methane, hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO). In this study, we analysed soil metagenomes from Chilean volcanic soils, representing three different successional stages with ages of 380, 269 and 63 years, respectively. A total of 19 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) were retrieved from all stages with a higher number observed in the youngest soil (1640: 2 MAGs, 1751: 1 MAG, 1957: 16 MAGs). Genomic similarity indices showed that several MAGs had amino-acid identity (AAI) values >50% to the phyla Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Proteobacteria and Chloroflexi. Three MAGs from the youngest site (1957) belonged to the class Ktedonobacteria (Chloroflexi). Complete cellular functions of all the MAGs were characterised, including carbon fixation, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, formate oxidation and CO oxidation. All 19 environmental genomes contained at least one gene encoding a putative carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH). Three MAGs had form I coxL operon (encoding the large subunit CO-dehydrogenase). One of these MAGs (MAG-1957-2.1, Ktedonobacterales) was highly abundant in the youngest soil. MAG-1957-2.1 also contained genes encoding a [NiFe]-hydrogenase and hyp genes encoding accessory enzymes and proteins. Little is known about the Ktedonobacterales through cultivated isolates, but some species can utilise H2 and CO for growth. Our results strongly suggest that the remote volcanic sites in Chile represent a natural habitat for Ktedonobacteria and they may use reduced gases for growth.
Intelligent Blended Agents: Reality–Virtuality Interaction with Artificially Intelligent Embodied Virtual Humans
Authors: Schmidt Susanne , Ariza Oscar , Steinicke Frank
Published: November 2020

Intelligent virtual agents (VAs) already support us in a variety of everyday tasks such as setting up appointments, monitoring our fitness, and organizing messages. Adding a humanoid body representation to these mostly voice-based VAs has enormous potential to enrich the human–agent communication process but, at the same time, raises expectations regarding the agent’s social, spatial, and intelligent behavior. Embodied VAs may be perceived as less human-like if they, for example, do not return eye contact, or do not show a plausible collision behavior with the physical surroundings. In this article, we introduce a new model that extends human-to-human interaction to interaction with intelligent agents and covers different multi-modal and multi-sensory channels that are required to create believable embodied VAs. Theoretical considerations of the different aspects of human–agent interaction are complemented by implementation guidelines to support the practical development of such agents. In this context, we particularly emphasize one aspect that is distinctive of embodied agents, i.e., interaction with the physical world. Since previous studies indicated negative effects of implausible physical behavior of VAs, we were interested in the initial responses of users when interacting with a VA with virtual–physical capabilities for the first time. We conducted a pilot study to collect subjective feedback regarding two forms of virtual–physical interactions. Both were designed and implemented in preparation of the user study, and represent two different approaches to virtual–physical manipulations: (i) displacement of a robotic object, and (ii) writing on a physical sheet of paper with thermochromic ink. The qualitative results of the study indicate positive effects of agents with virtual–physical capabilities in terms of their perceived realism as well as evoked emotional responses of the users. We conclude with an outlook on possible future developments of different aspects of human–agent interaction in general and the physical simulation in particular.