bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Balanced Localization-Free Cooperative Noise-Aware Routing Protocols for Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Qadir Junaid , Khan Anwar , Zareei Mahdi , Vargas-Rosales Cesar
Published: November 2019

Owing to the harsh and unpredictable behavior of the sea channel, network protocols that combat the undesirable and challenging properties of the channel are of critical significance. Protocols addressing such challenges exist in literature. However, these protocols consume an excessive amount of energy due to redundant packets transmission or have computational complexity by being dependent on the geographical positions of nodes. To address these challenges, this article designs two protocols for underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs). The first protocol, depth and noise-aware routing (DNAR), incorporates the extent of link noise in combination with the depth of a node to decide the next information forwarding candidate. However, it sends data over a single link and is, therefore, vulnerable to the harshness of the channel. Therefore, routing in a cooperative fashion is added to it that makes another scheme called cooperative DNAR (Co-DNAR), which uses source-relay-destination triplets in information advancement. This reduces the probability of information corruption that would otherwise be sent over a single source-destination link. Simulations-backed results reveal the superior performance of the proposed schemes over some competitive schemes in consumed energy, packet advancement to destination, and network stability.
Thermo-Economic Analysis of A Geothermal Binary Power Plant in Indonesia—A Pre-Feasibility Case Study of the Wayang Windu Site
Authors: Putera Andreas Diga Pratama , Hidayah Annisa Nurul , Subiantoro Alison
Published: November 2019

Indonesia has a predicted geothermal potential of 29 GWe, which is the biggest in the world. With this potential, the government has the ambitious target to generate as much as 7 GWe of electricity in 2025 from geothermal energy. However, the installed capacity of geothermal power plant in Indonesia until 2019 is only 1.9 GWe. Enhancements in already-installed geothermal power plants with a binary power plant can be considered to achieve the 2025 target. In this research, a thermo-economic analysis is carried out to assess the feasibility of binary power systems to enhance the existing geothermal power plants in Indonesia. The Wayang Windu site is selected as the case study. Three working fluids, i.e., n-Pentane, isopentane, and R245fa, are compared. Two different optimization objectives are considered and compared. First, the thermal efficiency is optimized to maximize the thermodynamic performance. In the second scenario, the heat exchanger area is optimized to maximize the economic performance. Analysis of the economic profitability variables, namely the payback period and internal rate of return, shows that optimizing the heat exchangers gives better economic results when compared to optimizing the thermal efficiency. The results also show that the type of working fluid significantly affects both the thermal efficiency and economic profitability of the binary power plant. Moreover, n-Pentane has the most preferred thermo-economic performance for the geothermal conditions at Wayang Windu with the smallest payback period of 13 years and the highest internal rate of return of 11.28%.
Structural and Comparative Analysis of the Complete Chloroplast Genome of a Mangrove Plant: Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea Gaertn. f. and Related Rubiaceae Species
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Jing-Wen , Yang Yong , Li Xin-Nian
Published: November 2019

Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea Gaertn. f. (Rubiaceae) is an endangered mangrove species found in China, and its only known location is in Hainan Island. Previous studies conducted on S. hydrophyllaceae have mainly focused on its location, biological characteristics, and medical effects. However, to date, there has been no published report regarding the genetics or genome of this endangered mangrove species. In this study, we developed valuable chloroplast genome-related molecular resources of S. hydrophyllaceae by comparing with it related Rubiaceae species. The chloroplast genome of S. hydrophyllaceae was found to be a circular molecule with a total size of 155,132 bp, and it is observed to have a quadripartite structure. The whole chloroplast genome contains 132 genes, of which 88 and 36 are protein-coding and transfer RNA genes, respectively; it also contains four ribosomal RNA genes with an overall GC content of 37.60%. A total of 52 microsatellites were detected in the S. hydrophyllacea chloroplast genome, and microsatellite marker detection identified A/T mononucleotides as majority simple sequence repeats in all nine Rubiaceae chloroplast genomes. Comparative analyses of these nine chloroplast genomes revealed variable regions, including matK, rps16, and atpF. All nine species shared 13 RNA-editing sites distributed across eight coding genes. Phylogenetic analyses based on the complete sequences of the chloroplast genomes revealed that the position of S. hydrophyllaceae is closer to the Coffeeae genus than to Cinchoneae, Naucleeae, Morindeae, and Rubieae in the Rubiaceae family. The genome information reported in this study could find further application in the evolution and population genetic studies, and it helps improve our understanding of the endangered mechanism and the development of conservation strategies of this endangered mangrove plant.
Phosphorus Availabilities Differ between Cropland and Forestland in Shelterbelt Systems
Authors: Manimel Wadu Mihiri C.W. , Ma Fengxiang , Chang Scott X.
Published: November 2019

Shelterbelt systems play pivotal roles in providing goods and services to the rural community and the society at large, but phosphorus (P) cycling in shelterbelt systems is poorly studied, while P cycling and availability would be linked to the ecological function and services of shelterbelt systems. This study was conducted to understand how long-term (>30 years) land-use between cropland and forestland in shelterbelt systems affect soil P status. We investigated modified Kelowna (PKelowna) and Mehlich-3 (PMehlich) extractable P, P fractions (by sequential chemical fractionation), P sorption properties in the 0–10 and 10–30 cm soils and their relationship in six pairs of the cropland areas and adjacent forestland (each pair constitutes a shelterbelt system) in central Alberta. Both PKelowna and PMehlich in the 0–10 cm soil were greater in the cropland than in the forestland. The PKelowna ranged from 10 to 170 and 2 to 57 mg kg−1 within the cropland areas and forestland, respectively. The inorganic P fraction in the 0–30 cm depth was significantly related to PKelowna (R2 = 0.55) and PMehlich (R2 = 0.80) in cropland, but organic P fraction was not significantly related with neither PKelowna nor PMehlich. The iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) associated P (Fe/Al-P) explained ~50% and ~45% of the variation of PKelowna in the 0–30 cm soil in the cropland and forestland, respectively. The Fe/Al-P and organic P fractions in the 0–10 cm soil were greater in the cropland than in the forestland. The differences in availability and P forms depending on the land use type in shelterbelts suggest that P management needs to be land-use type-specific for shelterbelt systems.
Edge Computing Simulators for IoT System Design: An Analysis of Qualities and Metrics
Authors: Ashouri Majid , Lorig Fabian , Davidsson Paul , Spalazzese Romina
Published: November 2019

The deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) applications is complex since many quality characteristics should be taken into account, for example, performance, reliability, and security. In this study, we investigate to what extent the current edge computing simulators support the analysis of qualities that are relevant to IoT architects who are designing an IoT system. We first identify the quality characteristics and metrics that can be evaluated through simulation. Then, we study the available simulators in order to assess which of the identified qualities they support. The results show that while several simulation tools for edge computing have been proposed, they focus on a few qualities, such as time behavior and resource utilization. Most of the identified qualities are not considered and we suggest future directions for further investigation to provide appropriate support for IoT architects.
Potential of Vineyard Landscapes for Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Ruiz Pulpón Ángel Raúl , Cañizares Ruiz María del Carmen
Published: November 2019

According to the World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism fosters the conservation of natural resources, respects the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities and ensures the maintenance of economic activities in the long term. With reference to these three areas, this article examines how vineyard landscapes, seen as one of the many resources of wine tourism, represent a potential for promoting forms of sustainable tourism, which be understood as tourism that assumes a balance between the environmental, economic and social determining factors behind a region. For this purpose, different theoretical and thematic approaches are used to highlight the importance of key issues, such as the status of the vineyard landscape as part of the conservation of natural resources in general and the elements linked to tangible and intangible heritage as part of the social authenticity of these landscapes. The results show how the strong cultural nature of vineyard landscapes, which are rich in heritage and aesthetics, guarantees their sustainability for tourist activity, provided that appropriate planning criteria are used.
What Pelvic Floor Muscle Training Load is Optimal in Minimizing Urine Loss in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: García-Sánchez Esther , Ávila-Gandía Vicente , López-Román Javier , Martínez-Rodríguez Alejandro , Rubio-Arias Jacobo Á.
Published: November 2019

Pelvic floor muscle training is commonly used for urine loss. However, research studies have not determined which training load is the most effective for women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Moreover, none of the previous reviews or studies have described the total effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) with an objective test such as the pad test. The objectives were to analyze the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training in women with SUI and to determine which training load produces the greatest adaptations for decreasing urine loss. The search was conducted in three databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane), for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of PFMT. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: participants were women; were older than 18; had SUI; were treated with PFMT; and the assessments of the effects were measured with a pad test. Finally, 10 articles (293 women) analyzed the pad test in women with SUI who performed PFMT. The meta-analysis showed that PFMT, independent of the protocol used in the study, resulted in decreased urine loss in women suffering from SUI. However, for large effects, the program should last 6–12 weeks, with >3 sessions/week and a length of session <45 min.
Cluster Analysis of Residential Personal Exposure to ELF Magnetic Field in Children: Effect of Environmental Variables
Authors: Tognola Gabriella , Chiaramello Emma , Bonato Marta , Magne Isabelle , Souques Martine , Fiocchi Serena , Parazzini Marta , Ravazzani Paolo
Published: November 2019

Personal exposure to Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Fields (ELF MF) in children is a very timely topic. We applied cluster analysis to 24 h indoor personal exposures of 884 children in France to identify possible common patterns of exposures. We investigated how electric networks near child home and other variables potentially affecting residential exposure, such as indoor sources of ELF MF, the age and type of the residence and family size, characterized the magnetic field exposure patterns. We identified three indoor personal exposure patterns: children living near overhead lines of high (63–150 kV), extra-high (225 kV) and ultra-high voltage (400 kV) were characterized by the highest exposures; children living near underground networks of low (400 V) and mid voltage (20 kV) and substations (20 kV/400 V) were characterized by mid exposures; children living far from electric networks had the lowest level of exposure. The harmonic component was not relevant in discriminating the exposure patterns, unlike the 50 Hz or broadband (40–800 Hz) component. Children using electric heating appliances, or living in big buildings or in larger families had generally a higher level of personal indoor exposure. Instead, the age of the residence was not relevant in differentiating the exposure patterns.
Impact of a Telemedicine Program on the Reduction in the Emission of Atmospheric Pollutants and Journeys by Road
Authors: Vidal-Alaball Josep , Franch-Parella Jordi , Lopez Seguí Francesc , Garcia Cuyàs Francesc , Mendioroz Peña Jacobo
Published: November 2019

This retrospective study evaluates the effect of a telemedicine program developed in the central Catalan region in lowering the environmental footprint by reducing the emission of atmospheric pollutants, thanks to a reduction in the number of hospital visits involving journeys by road. Between January 2018 and June 2019, a total of 12,322 referrals were made to telemedicine services in the primary care centers, avoiding a total of 9034 face-to-face visits. In total, the distance saved was 192,682 km, with a total travel time saving of 3779 h and a total fuel reduction of 11,754 L with an associated cost of €15,664. This represents an average reduction of 3248.3 g of carbon dioxide, 4.05 g of carbon monoxide, 4.86 g of nitric oxide and 3.2 g of sulphur dioxide. This study confirms that telemedicine reduces the environmental impact of atmospheric pollutants emitted by vehicles by reducing the number of journeys made for face-to-face visits, and thus contributing to environmental sustainability.
Heat Health Prevention Measures and Adaptation in Older Populations—A Systematic Review
Authors: Vu An , Rutherford Shannon , Phung Dung
Published: November 2019

The population of older people is increasing at a rapid rate, with those 80 years and older set to triple by 2050. This systematic review aimed to examine older people’s perceptions and behaviours against existing heatwaves prevention measures and systematically categorize and analyse those measures using the Ottawa charter for health promotion framework. Peer-reviewed published literature between 22nd September 2006 and 24th April 2018 was retrieved, according to the PRISMA guidelines, from five different databases. Eighteen articles were finally included. There is a lack of published studies from developing countries. Results were categorized and analysed using the Ottawa charter five action areas. Mitigation strategies from current heat action plans are discussed and gaps are highlighted. A lack of systematic evaluation of heat action plans efficacy was identified. Older people are not demonstrating all recommended preventative measures during heatwaves. Support personnel and health professionals are not being pro-active enough in facilitating prevention of adverse effects from heatwaves. Governments are beginning to implement policy changes, but other recommended support measures outlined in the Ottawa charter are still lacking, and hence require further action. Linkage between specific components of heat action plans and outcomes cannot be ascertained; therefore, more systematic evaluation is needed.
Sex-Dependent Effects of PM2.5 Maternal Exposure and Quercetin Intervention on Offspring’s Short Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhou Yalin , Qin Yong , Li Yong , Yu Lanlan , Li Ruijun , Chen Yuhan , Xu Yajun
Published: November 2019

Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced by the colonic microbiota through fermentation. Influences of maternal PM2.5 exposure on SCFAs of the offspring have not been well understood. Additionally, studies of dietary intervention have not been carried out yet. Here we performed a study that dams were received PM2.5 and quercetin intervention during gestation and lactation. SCFAs in colon of dams and their offspring (on postnatal day 21 and 35) were analyzed using gas chromatography. For male offspring, when compared with the control group levels of acetic acid, butyric acid, and valeric acid were lower in the PM2.5 group (p < 0.05), however, levels of isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid were higher in the PM2.5 group (p < 0.05). For female offspring, as compared with the control group, propanoic acid was lower in the PM2.5 group, however isovaleric acid was higher in the PM2.5 group (p < 0.05). 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg quercetin intervention could inhibit SCFAs production of male offspring, especially in isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid (p < 0.05). 100 mg/kg quercetin intervention could upgrade the level of propanoic acid of female offspring (p < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggest that PM2.5 tracheal exposure during gestation and lactation could influence SCFAs of offspring. Quercetin administration might have the potential to offset the effects of mater PM2.5 exposure on SCFAs in the offspring to some extent. The above effects were showed in a sex-dependent manner.
G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)-Mediated Calcium Signaling in Ovarian Cancer: Focus on GPCRs activated by Neurotransmitters and Inflammation-Associated Molecules
Authors: Predescu Dragoș-Valentin , Crețoiu Sanda Maria , Crețoiu Dragoș , Pavelescu Luciana Alexandra , Suciu Nicolae , Radu Beatrice Mihaela , Voinea Silviu-Cristian
Published: November 2019

G-coupled protein receptors (GCPR) involve several signaling pathways, some of them being coupled with intracellular calcium (Ca2+) mobilization. GPCRs were involved in migration, invasion and metastasis of different types of cancers, including ovarian cancer. Many studies have discussed the essential contribution of GPCRs activated by steroid hormones in ovarian cancer. However, ovarian cancer is also associated with altered signals coming from the nervous system, the immune system or the inflammatory environment, in which GPCRs are ‘sensing’ these molecular signals. Many studies have been oriented so far on ovarian cell lines (most of them being of human cell lines), and only few studies based on animal models or clinical studies have been devoted to the expression changes or functional role of GPCRs in ovarian cancer. In this paper, we review the alterations of GPCRs activated by neurotransmitters (muscarinic receptors, serotonin receptors, dopamine receptors, adrenoceptors) or inflammation-associated molecules (bradykinin receptors, histamine receptors, chemokine receptors) in ovarian cancer and we discuss their potential as histological biomarkers.
Improved Electrophoretic Separation to Assist the Monitoring of Bcl-xL Post-Translational Modifications
Authors: Bobo Claude , Céré Claire , Dufossée Mélody , Dautant Alain , Moreau Violaine , Manon Stéphen , Beaumatin Florian , Priault Muriel
Published: November 2019

Bcl-xL is an oncogene of which the survival functions are finely tuned by post-translational modifications (PTM). Within the Bcl-2 family of proteins, Bcl-xL shows unique eligibility to deamidation, a time-related spontaneous reaction. Deamidation is still a largely overlooked PTM due to a lack of easy techniques to monitor Asn→Asp/IsoAsp conversions or Glu→Gln conversions. Being able to detect PTMs is essential to achieve a comprehensive description of all the regulatory mechanisms and functions a protein can carry out. Here, we report a gel composition improving the electrophoretic separation of deamidated forms of Bcl-xL generated either by mutagenesis or by alkaline treatment. Importantly, this new gel formulation proved efficient to provide the long-sought evidence that even doubly-deamidated Bcl-xL remains eligible for regulation by phosphorylation.
The Role of Electron Transfer in the Fragmentation of Phenyl and Cyclohexyl Boronic Acids
Authors: Lozano Ana , Pamplona Beatriz , Kilich Tymon , Łabuda Marta , Mendes Mónica , Pereira-da-Silva João , García Gustavo , Gois Pedro , Ferreira da Silva Filipe , Limão-Vieira Paulo
Published: November 2019

In this study, novel measurements of negative ion formation in neutral potassium-neutral boronic acid collisions are reported in electron transfer experiments. The fragmentation pattern of phenylboronic acid is comprehensively investigated for a wide range of collision energies, i.e., from 10 to 1000 eV in the laboratory frame, allowing some of the most relevant dissociation channels to be probed. These studies were performed in a crossed molecular beam set up using a potassium atom as an electron donor. The negative ions formed in the collision region were mass analysed with a reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer. In the unimolecular decomposition of the temporary negative ion, the two most relevant yields were assigned to BO− and BO2−. Moreover, the collision-induced reaction was shown to be selective, i.e., at energies below 100 eV, it mostly formed BO−, while at energies above 100 eV, it mostly formed BO2−. In order to further our knowledge on the complex internal reaction mechanisms underlying the influence of the hybridization state of the boron atom, cyclohexylboronic acid was also investigated in the same collision energy range, where the main dissociation channel yielded BO2−. The experimental results for phenyl boronic acid are supported by ab initio theoretical calculations of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) accessed in the collision process.
Comparative Proteomic and Morpho-Physiological Analyses of Maize Wild-Type Vp16 and Mutant vp16 Germinating Seed Responses to PEG-Induced Drought Stress
Authors: Liu Songtao , Zenda Tinashe , Dong Anyi , Yang Yatong , Liu Xinyue , Wang Yafei , Li Jiao , Tao Yongsheng , Duan Huijun
Published: November 2019

Drought stress is a major abiotic factor compromising plant cell physiological and molecular events, consequently limiting crop growth and productivity. Maize (Zea mays L.) is among the most drought-susceptible food crops. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying drought-stress responses remains critical for crop improvement. To decipher the molecular mechanisms underpinning maize drought tolerance, here, we used a comparative morpho-physiological and proteomics analysis approach to monitor the changes in germinating seeds of two incongruent (drought-sensitive wild-type Vp16 and drought-tolerant mutant vp16) lines exposed to polyethylene-glycol-induced drought stress for seven days. Our physiological analysis showed that the tolerant line mutant vp16 exhibited better osmotic stress endurance owing to its improved reactive oxygen species scavenging competency and robust osmotic adjustment as a result of greater cell water retention and enhanced cell membrane stability. Proteomics analysis identified a total of 1200 proteins to be differentially accumulated under drought stress. These identified proteins were mainly involved in carbohydrate and energy metabolism, histone H2A-mediated epigenetic regulation, protein synthesis, signal transduction, redox homeostasis and stress-response processes; with carbon metabolism, pentose phosphate and glutathione metabolism pathways being prominent under stress conditions. Interestingly, significant congruence (R2 = 81.5%) between protein and transcript levels was observed by qRT-PCR validation experiments. Finally, we propose a hypothetical model for maize germinating-seed drought tolerance based on our key findings identified herein. Overall, our study offers insights into the overall mechanisms underpinning drought-stress tolerance and provides essential leads into further functional validation of the identified drought-responsive proteins in maize.
Identification and Expression Profiling of Peripheral Olfactory Genes in the Parasitoid Wasp Aphidius ervi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) Reared on Different Aphid Hosts
Authors: Ballesteros Gabriel I. , Sepúlveda Daniela A. , Figueroa Christian C.
Published: November 2019

Generalist parasitoids of aphids, such as the wasp Aphidius ervi, display significant differences in terms of host preference and host acceptance, depending on the host on which they developed (natal host), which is preferred over a non-natal host, a trait known as host fidelity. This trait allows females to quickly find hosts in heterogeneous environments, a process mediated by chemosensory/olfactory mechanisms, as parasitoids rely on olfaction and chemical cues during host selection. Thus, it is expected that proteins participating in chemosensory recognition, such as odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and odorant receptors (ORs) would play a key role in host preference. In this study, we addressed the effect of parasitoid reciprocal host switching between two aphid hosts (Sitobion avenae and Acyrthosiphon pisum) on the expression patterns of chemosensory genes in the wasp A. ervi. First, by using a transcriptomic approach based on RNAseq of A. ervi females reared on S. avenae and A. pisum, we were able to annotate a total of 91 transcripts related to chemoperception. We also performed an in-silico expression analysis and found three OBPs and five ORs displaying different expression levels. Then, by using qRT-PCR amplification, we found significant differences in the expression levels of these eight genes when the parasitoids were reciprocally transplanted from S. avenae onto A. pisum and vice versa. This suggests that the expression levels of genes coding for odorant receptors and odorant-binding proteins would be regulated by the specific plant–aphid host complex where the parasitoids develop (maternal previous experience) and that chemosensory genes coding for olfactory mechanisms would play a crucial role on host preference and host acceptance, ultimately leading to the establishment of host fidelity in A. ervi parasitoids.
Human Red Blood Cells as Oxygen Carriers to Improve Ex-Situ Liver Perfusion in a Rat Model
Authors: Dondossola Daniele , Santini Alessandro , Lonati Caterina , Zanella Alberto , Merighi Riccardo , Vivona Luigi , Battistin Michele , Galli Alessandro , Biancolilli Osvaldo , Maggioni Marco , Villa Stefania , Gatti Stefano
Published: November 2019

Ex-situ machine perfusion (MP) has been increasingly used to enhance liver quality in different settings. Small animal models can help to implement this procedure. As most normothermic MP (NMP) models employ sub-physiological levels of oxygen delivery (DO2), the aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and safety of different DO2, using human red blood cells (RBCs) as oxygen carriers on metabolic recovery in a rat model of NMP. Four experimental groups (n = 5 each) consisted of (1) native (untreated/control), (2) liver static cold storage (SCS) 30 min without NMP, (3) SCS followed by 120 min of NMP with Dulbecco-Modified-Eagle-Medium as perfusate (DMEM), and (4) similar to group 3, but perfusion fluid was added with human RBCs (hematocrit 15%) (BLOOD). Compared to DMEM, the BLOOD group showed increased liver DO2 (p = 0.008) and oxygen consumption ( V O ˙ 2) (p < 0.001); lactate clearance (p < 0.001), potassium (p < 0.001), and glucose (p = 0.029) uptake were enhanced. ATP levels were likewise higher in BLOOD relative to DMEM (p = 0.031). V O ˙ 2 and DO2 were highly correlated (p < 0.001). Consistently, the main metabolic parameters were directly correlated with DO2 and V O ˙ 2. No human RBC related damage was detected. In conclusion, an optimized DO2 significantly reduces hypoxic damage-related effects occurring during NMP. Human RBCs can be safely used as oxygen carriers.
Management of Dehydration in Patients Suffering Swallowing Difficulties
Authors: Reber Emilie , Gomes Filomena , Dähn Ilka A. , Vasiloglou Maria F. , Stanga Zeno
Published: November 2019

Swallowing difficulties, also called dysphagia, can have various causes and may occur at many points in the swallowing process. The treatment and rehabilitation of dysphagia represent a major interdisciplinary and multiprofessional challenge. In dysphagic patients, dehydration is frequent and often accelerated as a result of limited fluid intake. This condition results from loss of water from the intracellular space, disturbing the normal levels of electrolytes and fluid interfering with metabolic processes and body functions. Dehydration is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates. Dysphagic patients at risk of dehydration thus require close monitoring of their hydration state, and existing imbalances should be addressed quickly. This review gives an overview on dehydration, as well as its pathophysiology, risk factors, and clinical signs/symptoms in general. Available management strategies of dehydration are presented for oral, enteral, and parenteral fluid replacement.
Free Vibration Analysis of Smart Laminated Functionally Graded CNT Reinforced Composite Plates via New Four-Variable Refined Plate Theory
Authors: Huu Quoc Tran , Minh Tu Tran , Van Tham Vu
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a new four-variable refined plate theory for free vibration analysis of laminated piezoelectric functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite plates (PFG-CNTRC). The present theory includes a parabolic distribution of transverse shear strain through the thickness and satisfies zero traction boundary conditions at both free surfaces of the plates. Thus, no shear correction factor is required. The distribution of carbon nanotubes across the thickness of each FG-CNT layer can be functionally graded or uniformly distributed. Additionally, the electric potential in piezoelectric layers is assumed to be quadratically distributed across the thickness. Equations of motion for PFG-CNTRC rectangular plates are derived using both Maxwell’s equation and Hamilton’s principle. Using the Navier technique, natural frequencies of the simply supported hybrid plate with closed circuit and open circuit of electrical boundary conditions are calculated. New parametric studies regarding the effect of the volume fraction, the CNTs distribution, the number of layers, CNT fiber orientation and thickness of the piezoelectric layer on the free vibration response of hybrid plates are performed.
Advantage of Alveolar Ridge Augmentation with Bioactive/Bioresorbable Screws Made of Composites of Unsintered Hydroxyapatite and Poly-L-lactide
Authors: Sukegawa Shintaro , Kawai Hotaka , Nakano Keisuke , Takabatake Kiyofumi , Kanno Takahiro , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Furuki Yoshihiko
Published: November 2019

We studied human bone healing characteristics and the histological osteogenic environment by using devices made of a composite of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA) and poly-L-lactide (PLLA). In eight cases of fixation, we used u-HA/PLLA screws for maxillary alveolar ridge augmentation, for which mandibular cortical bone block was used in preimplantation surgery. Five appropriate samples with screws were evaluated histologically and immunohistochemically for runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), transcription factor Sp7 (Osterix), and leptin receptor (LepR). In all cases, histological evaluation revealed that bone components had completely surrounded the u-HA/PLLA screws, and the bone was connected directly to the biomaterial. Inflammatory cells did not invade the space between the bone and the u-HA/PLLA screw. Immunohistochemical evaluation revealed that many cells were positive for RUNX2 or Osterix, which are markers for osteoblast and osteoprogenitor cells, in the tissues surrounding u-HA/PLLA. In addition, many bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells were notably positive for both LepR and RUNX2. The u-HA/PLLA material showed excellent bioactive osteoconductivity and a highly biocompatibility with bone directly attached. In addition, our findings suggest that many bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells and mature osteoblast are present in the osteogenic environment created with u-HA/PLLA screws and that this environment is suitable for osteogenesis.
Effects of Corrosion on Mechanical Properties of Welded Carbon Steel Pipe in District Heating Water
Authors: Ko Sang-Jin , An Jeong-Hun , Kim Yong-Sang , Kim Woo-Cheol , Kim Jung-Gu
Published: November 2019

This study examined the effect of corrosion on mechanical properties of welded carbon steel pipe in district heating water. To evaluate the corrosion properties, potentiodynamic tests were conducted and a galvanostatic test was used to accelerate corrosion. Tensile tests and microstructure observations were performed to figure out the degradation of the corroded region, and stress intensity factors were calculated. As a result of the potentiodynamic tests, welded carbon steel pipe showed uniform corrosion and the total charge was calculated. Using the galvanostatic test, the current density at the equivalent aging time was applied to the specimens. The tensile tests showed that according to corrosion damages, mechanical properties were degraded due to corrosion. Through the microstructure observations and calculations of stress intensity factors, the corrosion of the welded carbon steel pipe induced the degradation of mechanical properties. The mode of fracture was changed from ductile to brittle fracture with increasing aging time.
Influence of Alloyed Ga on the Microstructure and Corrosion Properties of As-Cast Mg–5Sn Alloys
Authors: Ren Jing , Guo Enyu , Wang Xuejian , Kang Huijun , Chen Zongning , Wang Tongmin
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the microstructures and corrosion behaviors of as-cast Mg–5Sn–xGa alloys with varying Ga content (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3 wt %) were investigated. The results indicated that Ga could not only adequately refine the grain structure of the alloys, but could also improve the corrosion resistance. The microstructures of all alloys exhibited typical dendritic morphology. No Ga-rich secondary phases were detected when 0.5 wt % Ga was added, while only the morphology of Mg2Sn phase was changed. However, when the addition rate of Ga exceeded 0.5 wt %, an Mg5Ga2 intermetallic compound started to form from the interdendritic region. The volume fraction of Mg5Ga2 monotonically increased with the increasing Ga addition level. Although Mg5Ga2 phase was cathode phase, its pitting sensitivity was weaker than Mg2Sn. In addition, the standard potential of Ga (−0.55 V) was lower than that of Sn (−0.14 V), which relieved the driving force of the secondary phases for the micro-galvanic corrosion. An optimized composition of 3 wt % Ga was concluded based on the immersion tests and polarization measurements, which recorded the best corrosion resistance.
Microstructural Influences on Fracture at Prior Austenite Grain Boundaries in Dual-Phase Steels
Authors: Sharma Luv , Peerlings Ron , Geers Marc , Roters Franz
Published: November 2019

Dual phase (DP) steels provide good strength and ductility properties. Nevertheless, their forming capability is limited due to the damage characteristics of their constituting microstructural phases and interfaces. In this work, a specific type of interface is analysed, i.e., prior austenite grain boundaries (PAGBs). In the literature, prior austenite grain boundary fracture has been reported as an important damage mechanism of DP-steels. The influence of the morphology of phase boundaries near the PAGB and the role of the martensite substructure in the vicinity of a PAGB on damage initiation is analysed. The experimentally observed preferred sites of crack nucleation along the PAGB are assessed and clarified. A finite strain rate dependent crystal plasticity model accounting for the anisotropic elasto-plasticity of martensite (and also ferrite) was applied to an idealized volume element approximating a typical small-scale PAGB microstructure. The boundary value problem is solved using a fast Fourier transform (FFT) based spectral solver. The role of crystallography and geometrical features within the volume element is studied using simulations. Results are discussed considering possibly dominant regimes of elasticity and plasticity.
Comprehensive Modelling of the Hysteresis Loops and Strain–Energy Density for Low-Cycle Fatigue-Life Predictions of the AZ31 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Klemenc Jernej , Šeruga Domen , Nagode Aleš , Nagode Marko
Published: November 2019

Magnesium is one of the lightest metals for structural components. It has been used for producing various lightweight cast components, but the application of magnesium sheet plates is less widespread. There are two reasons for this: (i) its poor formability at ambient temperatures; and (ii) insufficient data on its durability, especially for dynamic loading. In this article, an innovative approach to predicting the fatigue life of the AZ31 magnesium alloy is presented. It is based on an energy approach that links the strain–energy density with the fatigue life. The core of the presented methodology is a comprehensive new model for tensile and compressive loading paths, which makes it possible to calculate the strain–energy density of closed hysteresis loops. The model is universal for arbitrary strain amplitudes. The material parameters are determined from several low-cycle fatigue tests. The presented approach was validated with examples of variable strain histories.
Deacetylphylloketal, a New Phylloketal Derivative from a Marine Sponge, Genus Phyllospongia, with Potent Anti-Inflammatory Activity in In Vitro Co-Culture Model of Intestine
Authors: Lee Seon Min , Kim Na-Hyun , Lee Sangbum , Kim Yun Na , Heo Jeong Doo , Jeong Eun Ju , Rho Jung-Rae
Published: November 2019

The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The prevalence of IBD has been increasing worldwide, and has sometimes led to irreversible impairment of gastrointestinal structure and function. In the present study, we successfully isolated a new phylloketal derivative, deacetylphylloketal (1) along with four known compounds from the sponge genus Phyllospongia. The anti-inflammatory properties of deacetylphylloketal (1) and phyllohemiketal A (2) were evaluated using an in vitro co-culture system that resembles the intestinal epithelial environment. A co-culture system was established that consisted of human epithelial Caco-2 cells and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-differentiated THP-1 macrophage cells. The treatment of co-cultured THP-1 cells with compounds 1 or 2 significantly suppressed the production and/or gene expression of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β and Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α). The expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were down-regulated in response to inhibition of NF-kB translocation into the nucleus in cells. In addition, we observed that 1 and 2 markedly promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and subsequent increase in the expression of heme oxygernase (HO)-1. These findings suggest the potential use of sponge genus Phyllospongia and its metabolites as a pharmaceutical aid in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases including IBD.
The Dynamics of Hole Transfer in DNA
Authors: Peluso Andrea , Caruso Tonino , Landi Alessandro , Capobianco Amedeo
Published: November 2019

High-energy radiation and oxidizing agents can ionize DNA. One electron oxidation gives rise to a radical cation whose charge (hole) can migrate through DNA covering several hundreds of Å, eventually leading to irreversible oxidative damage and consequent disease. Understanding the thermodynamic, kinetic and chemical aspects of the hole transport in DNA is important not only for its biological consequences, but also for assessing the properties of DNA in redox sensing or labeling. Furthermore, due to hole migration, DNA could potentially play an important role in nanoelectronics, by acting as both a template and active component. Herein, we review our work on the dynamics of hole transfer in DNA carried out in the last decade. After retrieving the thermodynamic parameters needed to address the dynamics of hole transfer by voltammetric and spectroscopic experiments and quantum chemical computations, we develop a theoretical methodology which allows for a faithful interpretation of the kinetics of the hole transport in DNA and is also capable of taking into account sequence-specific effects.
Portable Power Generation for Remote Areas Using Hydrogen Generated via Maleic Acid-Promoted Hydrolysis of Ammonia Borane
Authors: Groom Taylor B. , Gabl Jason R. , Pourpoint Timothée L.
Published: November 2019

A significant drawback to ammonia borane as a hydrogen storage material is the production of ammonia gas during hydrolysis. As a possible solution, maleic acid is shown to be capable of fully promoting hydrolysis of ammonia borane while also preventing ammonia release in excess of single digit parts per million. The reaction is shown to be relatively insensitive towards common water contaminants, with seawater, puddle water, and synthetic urine resulting in hydrogen evolution comparable to that observed when using highly pure deionized water. A common cola beverage was also investigated as a potential water source, with results deviating from those observed when using the other water sources. The ability to use low quality water sources presents the option of acquiring water at the point of use, greatly increasing the energy density of the system during transportation. For each of the water sources being used, concentrations of ammonia in the gas products of maleic acid-promoted hydrolysis were found to be less than the lower detection limits of the employed analysis methods. Based on this reaction, a portable hydrogen reactor is reported and shown to be capable of on-demand hydrogen generation sufficient to power a proton exchange membrane fuel cell at varying loads without significant changes in system pressure. The overall power production system has substantial value in scenarios where electrical power is required but there is no access to an established electrical utility, with prime examples including disaster relief and expeditionary military operations.
Nanostructured Nickel Nitride with Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for an Efficient Water-Urea Splitting
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhao Dongsheng , Zhang Linbao , Fan Liming , Zhang Xiutang , Hu Shengnan
Published: November 2019

A three-dimensional nickel nitride with reduced graphene oxide composite on nickel foam (s-X, where s represents Ni3N/rGO@NF and the annealing temperature X can be 320, 350, or 380) electrode has been fabricated through a facile method. We demonstrate that s-350 has excellent urea oxidation reaction (UOR) activity, with a demanded potential of 1.342 V to reach 10 mA/cm2 and bears high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. It provides a low overpotential of 124 mV at 10 mA/cm2, which enables the successful construction of its two-electrode alkaline electrolyzer (s-350||s-350) for water–urea splitting. It merely requires a voltage of 1.518 V to obtain 100 mA/cm2 and is 0.145 V lower than that of pure water splitting. This noble metal-free bifunctional electrode is regarded as an inexpensive and effective water–urea electrolysis assisted hydrogen production technology, which is commercially viable.
Glycerol-Mediated Facile Synthesis of Colored Titania Nanoparticles for Visible Light Photodegradation of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Nawaz Rab , Kait Chong Fai , Chia Ho Yeek , Isa Mohamed Hasnain , Huei Lim Wen
Published: November 2019

In this study, we developed a glycerol-mediated safe and facile method to synthesize colored titania nanoparticles (NPs) via solution route. Our method is considerably effective and greener than other options currently available. Colored titania NPs were produced by hydrolyzing TiCl4 precursor in aqueous solution containing different concentrations of glycerol (0.0, 1.163, 3.834, and 5.815 mol/L) and subsequent calcination at 300 °C for 1 h. Our results highlight firstly that glycerol-mediated synthesis is unlikely to affect the anatase crystalline structure of TiO2, and secondly, that it would lead to coloration, band gap narrowing, and a remarkable bathochromic redshift of the optical response of titania. More importantly, the synthesized colored titania have Ti3+ ions, which, at least in terms of our samples, is the major factor responsible for its coloration. These Ti3+ species could induce mid gap states in the band gap, which significantly improve the visible light absorption capability and photocatalytic performance of the colored titania. The photocatalytic experiments showed that the colored TiO2 NPs prepared in 1.163 mol/L aqueous glycerol solution displayed the best photocatalytic performance. Almost 48.17% of phenolic compounds and 62.18% of color were removed from treated palm oil mill effluent (POME) within 180 min of visible light irradiation.
Highly Sensitive Plasmonic Sensor Based on a Dual-Side Polished Photonic Crystal Fiber for Component Content Sensing Applications
Authors: Chen Nan , Chang Min , Zhang Xuedian , Zhou Jun , Lu Xinglian , Zhuang Songlin
Published: November 2019

A plasmonic sensor based on a dual-side polished photonic crystal fiber operating in a telecommunication wavelength range is proposed and investigated numerically by the finite element method (FEM). We study the effects of structural parameters on the sensor’s performance and analyze their tuning effects on loss spectra. As a result, two configurations are found when the analyte refractive index (RI) changes from 1.395 to 1.415. For configuration 1, an RI resolution of 9.39 × 10−6, an average wavelength sensitivity of 10,650 nm/RIU (the maximum wavelength sensitivity is 12,400 nm/RIU), an amplitude sensitivity of 252 RIU−1 and a linearity of 0.99692 are achieved. For configuration 2, the RI resolution, average wavelength sensitivity, amplitude sensitivity and linearity are 1.19 × 10−5, 8400 nm/RIU, 85 RIU−1 and 0.98246, respectively. The combination of both configurations can broaden the wavelength range for the sensing detection. Additionally, the sensor has a superior figure of merit (FOM) to a single-side polished design. The proposed sensor has a maximum wavelength sensitivity, amplitude sensitivity and RI resolution of the same order magnitude as that of existing sensors as well as higher linearity, which allows it to fulfill the requirements for modern sensing of being densely compact, amenable to integration, affordable and capable of remote sensing.
Evidence on the Health Benefits of Supplemental Propolis
Authors: Braakhuis Andrea
Published: November 2019

Propolis is a honey-related product with reported health benefits such as improved immunity, lowered blood pressure, treated allergies and skin conditions. A literature review and narrative synthesis were conducted to investigate the evidence on the reported health benefits and future direction of propolis products. Using a predefined search strategy we searched Medline (OvidSP), Embase and Central for quantitative and qualitative studies (1990–2018). Citation, reference, hand searches and expert consultation were also undertaken. Studies of randomised control trials and observational data on humans with health-related outcomes were included. Collected data were entered into NVivo software (Version 12, QRS International) and analysed using a thematic framework and a narrative synthesis of emergent themes. A total of 63 publications were discussed. The majority were cell-based and animal studies, with a few key human trials conducted. There is significant promise for propolis as an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent with particular promise in cardiometabolic health.