bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry, Entropy, Diversity and (Why Not?) Quantum Statistics in Society
Authors: Rosenblatt Jorge
Published: February 2019

We describe society as an out-of-equilibrium probabilistic system: in it, N individuals occupy W resource states and produce entropy S over definite time periods. The resulting thermodynamics are however unusual, because a second entropy, H , measures inequality or diversity―a typically social feature―in the distribution of available resources. A symmetry phase transition takes place at Gini values 1 / 3 , where realistic distributions become asymmetric. Four constraints act on S : N and W , and new ones, diversity and interactions between individuals; the latter are determined by the coordinates of a single point in the data, the peak. The occupation number of a job is either zero or one, suggesting Fermi–Dirac statistics for employment. Contrariwise, an indefinite number of individuals can occupy a state defined as a quantile of income or of age, so Bose–Einstein statistics may be required. Indistinguishability rather than anonymity of individuals and resources is thus needed. Interactions between individuals define classes of equivalence that happen to coincide with acceptable definitions of social classes or periods in human life. The entropy S is non-extensive and obtainable from data. Theoretical laws are compared to empirical data in four different cases of economic or physiological diversity. Acceptable fits are found for all of them.
High Strength and Deformation Mechanisms of Al0.3CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy Thin Films Fabricated by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Liao Wei-Bing , Zhang Hongti , Liu Zhi-Yuan , Li Pei-Feng , Huang Jian-Jun , Yu Chun-Yan , Lu Yang
Published: February 2019

Recently, high-entropy alloy thin films (HEATFs) with nanocrystalline structures and high hardness were developed by magnetron sputtering technique and have exciting potential to make small structure devices and precision instruments with sizes ranging from nanometers to micrometers. However, the strength and deformation mechanisms are still unclear. In this work, nanocrystalline Al0.3CoCrFeNi HEATFs with a thickness of ~4 μm were prepared. The microstructures of the thin films were comprehensively characterized, and the mechanical properties were systematically studied. It was found that the thin film was smooth, with a roughness of less than 5 nm. The chemical composition of the high entropy alloy thin film was homogeneous with a main single face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. Furthermore, it was observed that the hardness and the yield strength of the high-entropy alloy thin film was about three times that of the bulk samples, and the plastic deformation was inhomogeneous. Our results could provide an in-depth understanding of the mechanics and deformation mechanism for future design of nanocrystalline HEATFs with desired properties.
Assessment of Electron Transfer Mechanisms during a Long-Term Sediment Microbial Fuel Cell Operation
Authors: Peixoto Luciana , Parpot Pier , Martins Gilberto
Published: February 2019

The decentralized production of bioelectricity as well as the bioremediation of contaminated sediments might be achieved by the incorporation of an anode into anaerobic sediments and a cathode suspended in the water column. In this context, a sediment microbial fuel cell microcosm was carried out using different configurations of electrodes and types of materials (carbon and stainless steel). The results showed a long-term continuous production of electricity (>300 days), with a maximum voltage of approximately 100 mV reached after ~30 days of operation. A twofold increase of voltage was noticed with a twofold increase of surface area (~30 mV to ~60 mV vs. 40 cm2 to 80 cm2), while a threefold increase was obtained after the substitution of a carbon anode by one of stainless steel (~20 mV to ~65 mV vs. 40 cm2 to 812 cm2). Cyclic voltammetry was used to evaluate sediment bacteria electroactivity and to determine the kinetic parameters of redox reactions. The voltammetric results showed that redox processes were limited by the diffusion step and corresponded to a quasi-reversible electron charge transfer. These results are encouraging and give important information for the further optimization of sediment microbial fuel cell performance towards the long-term operation of sediment microbial fuel cell devices.
Dynamic Simulation Model of Trans-Critical Carbon Dioxide Heat Pump Application for Boosting Low Temperature Distribution Networks in Dwellings
Authors: de Santoli Livio , Lo Basso Gianluigi , Astiaso Garcia Davide , Piras Giuseppe , Spiridigliozzi Giulia
Published: February 2019

This research investigates the role of new hybrid energy system applications for developing a new plant refurbishment strategy to deploy small scale smart energy systems. This work deals with a dynamic simulation of trans-critical carbon dioxide heat pump application for boosting low temperature distribution networks to share heat for dwellings. Heat pumps provide high temperature heat to use the traditional emission systems. The new plant layout consists of an air source heat pump, four trans-critical carbon dioxide heat pumps (CO2-HPs), photovoltaic arrays, and a combined heat and power (CHP) for both domestic hot water production and electricity to partially drive the heat pumps. Furthermore, electric storage devices adoption has been evaluated. That layout has been compared to the traditional one based on separated generation systems using several energy performance indicators. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis on the primary energy saving, primary fossil energy consumptions, renewable energy fraction and renewable heat, with changes in building power to heat ratios, has been carried out. Obtained results highlighted that using the hybrid system with storage device it is possible to get a saving of 50% approximately. Consequently, CO2-HPs and hybrid systems adoption could be a viable option to achieve Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) qualification.
Development of a Space Heating Model Suitable for the Automated Model Generation of Existing Multifamily Buildings—A Case Study in Nordic Climate
Authors: Lundström Lukas , Akander Jan , Zambrano Jesús
Published: February 2019

Building energy performance modeling is essential for energy planning, management, and efficiency. This paper presents a space heating model suitable for auto-generating baseline models of existing multifamily buildings. Required data and parameter input are kept within such a level of detail that baseline models can be auto-generated from, and calibrated by, publicly accessible data sources. The proposed modeling framework consists of a thermal network, a typical hydronic radiator heating system, a simulation procedure, and data handling procedures. The thermal network is a lumped and simplified version of the ISO 52016-1:2017 standard. The data handling consists of procedures to acquire and make use of satellite-based solar radiation data, meteorological reanalysis data (air temperature, ground temperature, wind, albedo, and thermal radiation), and pre-processing procedures of boundary conditions to account for impact from shading objects, window blinds, wind- and stack-driven air leakage, and variable exterior surface heat transfer coefficients. The proposed model was compared with simulations conducted with the detailed building energy simulation software IDA ICE. The results show that the proposed model is able to accurately reproduce hourly energy use for space heating, indoor temperature, and operative temperature patterns obtained from the IDA ICE simulations. Thus, the proposed model can be expected to be able to model space heating, provided by hydronic heating systems, of existing buildings to a similar degree of confidence as established simulation software. Compared to IDA ICE, the developed model required one-thousandth of computation time for a full-year simulation of building model consisting of a single thermal zone. The fast computation time enables the use of the developed model for computation time sensitive applications, such as Monte-Carlo-based calibration methods.
Daylighting Performance of Solar Control Films for Hospital Buildings in a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Calama-González Carmen María , León-Rodríguez Ángel Luis , Suárez Rafael
Published: February 2019

One of the main retrofitting strategies in warm climates is the reduction of the effects of solar radiation. Cooling loads, and in turn, cooling consumption, can be reduced through the implementation of reflective materials such as solar control films. However, these devices may also negatively affect daylight illuminance conditions and the electric consumption of artificial lighting systems. In a hospital building, it is crucial to meet daylighting requirements as well as indoor illuminance levels and visibility from the inside, as these have a significant impact on health outcomes. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the influence on natural illuminance conditions of a solar control film installed on the windows of a public hospital building in a Mediterranean climate. To this end, a hospital room, with and without solar film, was monitored for a whole year. A descriptive statistical analysis was conducted on the use of artificial lighting, illuminance levels and rolling shutter aperture levels, as well as an analysis of natural illuminance and electric consumption of the artificial lighting system. The addition of a solar control film to the external surface of the window, in combination with the user-controlled rolling shutter aperture levels, has reduced the electric consumption of the artificial lighting system by 12.2%. Likewise, the solar control film has increased the percentage of annual hours with natural illuminance levels by 100–300 lux.
Exergy-Based and Economic Evaluation of Liquefaction Processes for Cryogenics Energy Storage
Authors: Hamdy Sarah , Moser Francisco , Morosuk Tatiana , Tsatsaronis George
Published: February 2019

Cryogenics-based energy storage (CES) is a thermo-electric bulk-energy storage technology, which stores electricity in the form of a liquefied gas at cryogenic temperatures. The charging process is an energy-intensive gas liquefaction process and the limiting factor to CES round trip efficiency (RTE). During discharge, the liquefied gas is pressurized, evaporated and then super-heated to drive a gas turbine. The cold released during evaporation can be stored and supplied to the subsequent charging process. In this research, exergy-based methods are applied to quantify the effect of cold storage on the thermodynamic performance of six liquefaction processes and to identify the most cost-efficient process. For all liquefaction processes assessed, the integration of cold storage was shown to multiply the liquid yield, reduce the specific power requirement by 50–70% and increase the exergetic efficiency by 30–100%. The Claude-based liquefaction processes reached the highest exergetic efficiencies (76–82%). The processes reached their maximum efficiency at different liquefaction pressures. The Heylandt process reaches the highest RTE (50%) and the lowest specific power requirement (1021 kJ/kg). The lowest production cost of liquid air (18.4 €/ton) and the lowest specific investment cost (<700 €/kWchar) were achieved by the Kapitza process.
Variations in the Volatile Compositions of Curcuma Species
Authors: Dosoky Noura S. , Satyal Prabodh , Setzer William N.
Published: February 2019

Curcuma species have been cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions in Asia, Australia, and South America for culinary as well as medicinal applications. The biological activities of Curcuma have been attributed to the non-volatile curcuminoids as well as to volatile terpenoids. Curcuma essential oils have demonstrated a wide variety of pharmacological properties. The objective of this work was to examine the variation in the compositions of Curcuma rhizome essential oils. In this work, the volatile oils from C. longa and C. zedoaria were obtained and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The chemical compositions of C. longa and C. zedoaria essential oils, including those reported in the literature, were analyzed by hierarchical cluster analysis. In addition, cluster analyses of the chemical compositions of C. aromatica and C. aeruginosa from the literature were also carried out. Curcuma longa volatiles were dominated by α-turmerone, curlone, ar-turmerone, β-sesquiphellandrene, α-zingiberene, germacrone, terpinolene, ar-curcumene, and α-phellandrene and showed four distinct chemical clusters. C. zedoaria rhizome oil contained 1,8-cineole, curzerenone/epi-curzerenone, α-copaene, camphor, β-caryophyllene, elemol, germacrone, curzerene, and β-elemene and showed two different chemical types. C. aromatica had three clearly defined clusters, and C. aeruginosa had three types.
Effects of Extreme Temperatures on Mortality and Hospitalization in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Dang Tran Ngoc , Honda Yasushi , Van Do Dung , Pham Anh Lan Thi , Chu Cordia , Huang Cunrui , Phung Dung
Published: February 2019

There is a lack of research focusing on the association of temperature with mortality and hospitalization in developing countries with tropical climates and a low capacity to cope with the influences of extreme weather events. This study aimed to examine and compare the effect of temperature, including heat waves, on mortality and hospitalization in the most populous city of Vietnam. We used quasi-Poisson time series regression coupled with the distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) to examine the overall pattern and compare the temperature-health outcome relationship. The main and added effects of heat waves were evaluated. The main effect of heat waves significantly increased the risk of all cause-specific mortality. Significant main effects of heat waves on hospitalization were observed only for elderly people and people with respiratory diseases (elderly, relative risk (RR) = 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.14–3.45; respiratory diseases, RR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.19–1.42). The RRs of the main effect were substantially higher than those of the added effect in mortality; the same was applicable for hospitalizations of people with respiratory diseases and elderly people. The findings of this study have important implications for public health adaptation and prevention program implementation in the protection of residents from the adverse health effects of temperature.
Factors Associated with Persistent Lower Respiratory Symptoms or Asthma among Residents Exposed to a Sulphur Stockpile Fire Incident
Authors: Baatjies Roslynn , Adams Shahieda , Cairncross Eugene , Omar Faieza , Jeebhay Mohamed
Published: February 2019

Introduction: Residents of Macassar, South Africa, were exposed to sulphur dioxide vapours (SO2) caused by an ignited sulphur stockpile, which produced peak hourly SO2 levels of 20–200 ppm. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors associated with persistent lower respiratory symptoms (LRS) or asthma six years after acute exposure to high SO2 levels. Methods: A case-control study of residents that presented for a health evaluation six years after the incident was conducted. Survey instruments included a questionnaire, clinical examination and medical record review by an expert panel. A “case” was defined as a resident with persistent LRS/asthma. The Industrial Source Complex Short Term Model (ISCST 3) was used to predict time-averaged hourly SO2 levels. Results: A previous history of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) was associated with persistent LRS/asthma (ORudj: 3.49, CI: 1.46–8.35). Cases were more likely to report chest tightness (ORudj: 9.93; CI: 5.15–19.11) at the time of the incident. Peak exposure at hour 15 was associated with persistent LRS/asthma (ORadj: 1.04; CI: 1.01–1.07). Conclusion: LRS/asthma persisted in some individuals six years after acute SO2 exposure. Aside from peak exposures, initial chest tightness and a previous history of PTB were the strong predictors of persistent LRS/asthma.
Hydro-Geochemistry of the River Water in the Jiulongjiang River Basin, Southeast China: Implications of Anthropogenic Inputs and Chemical Weathering
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Han Guilin , Liu Man , Yang Kunhua , Liu Jinke
Published: February 2019

This study focuses on the chemical weathering process under the influence of human activities in the Jiulongjiang River basin, which is the most developed and heavily polluted area in southeast China. The average total dissolved solid (TDS) of the river water is 116.6 mg/L and total cation concentration ( TZ + ) is 1.5 meq/L. Calcium and HCO 3 − followed by Na + and SO 4 2 − constitute the main species in river waters. A mass balance based on cations calculation indicated that the silicate weathering (43.3%), carbonate weathering (30.7%), atmospheric (15.6%) and anthropogenic inputs (10.4%) are four reservoirs contributing to the dissolved load. Silicates (SCW) and carbonates (CCW) chemical weathering rates are calculated to be approximately 53.2 ton/km2/a and 15.0 ton/km2/a, respectively. When sulfuric and nitric acid from rainfall affected by human activities are involved in the weathering process, the actual atmospheric CO 2 consumption rates are estimated at 3.7 × 105 mol/km2/a for silicate weathering and 2.2 × 105 mol/km2/a for carbonate weathering. An overestimated carbon sink (17.4 Gg C / a ) is about 27.0% of the CO 2 consumption flux via silicate weathering in the Jiulongjiang River basin, this result shows the strong effects of anthropogenic factors on atmospheric CO 2 level and current and future climate change of earth.
Remediation of PAH-Contaminated Soil by Combining Surfactant Enhanced Soil Washing and Iron-Activated Persulfate Oxidation Process
Authors: Qiu Yanhua , Xu Meilan , Sun Zongquan , Li Helian
Published: February 2019

There is increasing concern regarding soils contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In the present study, the remediation of soil spiked with PAHs was explored by the combination of soil washing with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and subsequent oxidation through persulfate (PS) activated by Fe2+, nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI), and SiO2-coated nZVI (SiO2/nZVI). Results demonstrated that the removal of phenanthrene (PHE), fluoranthene (FLU), and pyrene (PYR) by SDS is an efficient means for soil decontamination. At SDS concentration of 20 g/L, the removal efficiencies of PHE, PYR, and FLU were 37%, 40%, and 44%, respectively. For the degradation of PAHs and SDS in the soil washing effluents, the efficiencies of PS activated with SiO2/nZVI were not significantly different from those of PS activated with nZVI and Fe2+ (p > 0.05). In practice, SiO2/nZVI is more preferable due to the improved antioxidation and dispersibility. At the dosage of 2 g/L (in the amount of iron) of SiO2/nZVI, the removal efficiencies of PHE, FLU, PYR, and SDS within 30 min of treatment were 75%, 85%, 87%, and 34%, respectively. The degradation of SDS was much lower than those of PAHs, which facilitated the recycle of SDS. Our findings suggest that PS activated with SiO2/nZVI is a promising method for the treatment of soil washing effluents containing SDS and PAHs.
What we have learned from the Methadone Maintenance Treatment of Dual Disorder Heroin Use Disorder patients
Authors: Maremmani Angelo G.I. , Pacini Matteo , Maremmani Icro
Published: February 2019

Mental Disorders and Heroin Use Disorder (HUD) often co-occur and constitute correlated risk factors that the authors believe are best considered from a unitary perspective. In this article we review and discuss data collected by the V.P. Dole Research Group in Dual Disorder (V.P. Dole DD-RG) patients according to the following six discussion points: (1) Treatment of personality disorders during Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT); (2) Treatment of Mood Disorders during MMT; (3) Treatment of Anxiety Disorders during MMT; (4) Treatment of Psychotic Disorders during MMT; (5) Treatment of violence during MMT; (6) Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) during MMT. In treating Mood Disorder in HUD patients, we must bear in mind the interactions (potentiation and side effects) between psychopharmacology, used substances and agonist opioid medications; the use of psychiatric medications as an anti-craving drug, and the possible use of agonist and antagonist opioid medications in treating the other mental disorders. In treating chronic psychosis in HUD patients, we must consider the potentiation and side effects of antipsychotic drugs consequent on HUD treatment, worsening addiction hypophoria and inducing a more severe reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) in hypophoric patients. Violence and AUD during MMT can benefit from adequate dosages of methadone and co-medication with Sodium gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The experience of our V.P. Dole DD-RG suggests the following: (a) DD is the new paradigm in neuroscience in deepening our understanding of mental health; (b) To successfully treat DD patients a double competence is needed; (c) In managing DD patients priority must be given to Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment (stabilizing patients); (d) Antidepressant use is ancillary to SUD treatment; antipsychotic use must be restricted to acute phases; mood stabilizers must be preferred; any use of Benzodiazepines (BDZs) must be avoided.
Persistent Organic Pollutant-Mediated Insulin Resistance
Authors: Kim Yeon A. , Park Joon Beom , Woo Min Seok , Lee Sang Yeob , Kim Hye Young , Yoo Young Hyun
Published: February 2019

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as organochlorine (OC) pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) have become wide-spread environmental contaminants as a consequence of their extensive use, long-range transport, and persistence. Because POPs are highly resistant to metabolic degradation, humans bioaccumulate these lipophilic and hydrophobic pollutants in fatty tissues for many years. Previous studies have demonstrated that POPs including PCBs are involved in the development of diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 and insulin resistance. Numerous epidemiological studies suggest an association between POP burden and DM type 2/metabolic syndrome. In addition, several experimental studies have provided additional evidence supporting the association between POP exposure and DM type 2 or insulin resistance. Epidemiological and experimental studies have provided compelling evidence indicating that exposure to POPs increases the risk of developing insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. However, the detailed molecular mechanism underlying POP-induced insulin resistance is yet to be elucidated. In this article, we review literature that has reported on the association between POP burden and insulin resistance and the mechanism underlying POP-induced insulin resistance, and discuss implications for public health.
The Relationship between Social Cohesion and Urban Green Space: An Avenue for Health Promotion
Authors: Jennings Viniece , Bamkole Omoshalewa
Published: February 2019

Social cohesion involves the interpersonal dynamics and sense of connection among people. Increased social cohesion can be associated with various physical and psychological health benefits. The presence of urban green spaces can encourage positive social interactions that cultivate social cohesion in ways that enhance health and well-being. Urban green spaces have also been linked to positive health behaviors and outcomes including increased physical activity and social engagement. Understanding the relationship between social cohesion and urban green space is important for informing holistic approaches to health. In this article, we discuss how positive interactions in urban green space can catalyze social cohesion, social capital and critical health-promoting behaviors that may enhance psychological health and well-being. We also summarize the strengths and limitations of previous studies and suggest directions for future research.
Exploring Spatial Influence of Remotely Sensed PM2.5 Concentration Using a Developed Deep Convolutional Neural Network Model
Authors: Li Junming , Jin Meijun , Li Honglin
Published: February 2019

Currently, more and more remotely sensed data are being accumulated, and the spatial analysis methods for remotely sensed data, especially big data, are desiderating innovation. A deep convolutional network (CNN) model is proposed in this paper for exploiting the spatial influence feature in remotely sensed data. The method was applied in investigating the magnitude of the spatial influence of four factors—population, gross domestic product (GDP), terrain, land-use and land-cover (LULC)—on remotely sensed PM 2.5 concentration over China. Satisfactory results were produced by the method. It demonstrates that the deep CNN model can be well applied in the field of spatial analysing remotely sensed big data. And the accuracy of the deep CNN is much higher than of geographically weighted regression (GWR) based on comparation. The results showed that population spatial density, GDP spatial density, terrain, and LULC could together determine the spatial distribution of PM 2.5 annual concentrations with an overall spatial influencing magnitude of 97.85%. Population, GDP, terrain, and LULC have individual spatial influencing magnitudes of 47.12% and 36.13%, 50.07% and 40.91% on PM 2.5 annual concentrations respectively. Terrain and LULC are the dominating spatial influencing factors, and only these two factors together may approximately determine the spatial pattern of PM 2.5 annual concentration over China with a high spatial influencing magnitude of 96.65%.
Placental CX3CL1 is Deregulated by Angiotensin II and Contributes to a Pro-Inflammatory Trophoblast-Monocyte Interaction
Authors: Nonn Olivia , Güttler Jacqueline , Forstner Désirée , Maninger Sabine , Zadora Julianna , Balogh András , Frolova Alina , Glasner Andreas , Herse Florian , Gauster Martin
Published: February 2019

CX3CL1, which is a chemokine involved in many aspects of human pregnancy, is a membrane-bound chemokine shed into circulation as a soluble isoform. Placental CX3CL1 is induced by inflammatory cytokines and is upregulated in severe early-onset preeclampsia. In this study, the hypothesis was addressed whether angiotensin II can deregulate placental CX3CL1 expression, and whether CX3CL1 can promote a pro-inflammatory status of monocytes. qPCR analysis of human placenta samples (n = 45) showed stable expression of CX3CL1 and the angiotensin II receptor AGTR1 throughout the first trimester, but did not show a correlation between both or any influence of maternal age, BMI, and gestational age. Angiotensin II incubation of placental explants transiently deregulated CX3CL1 expression, while the angiotensin II receptor antagonist candesartan reversed this effect. Overexpression of recombinant human CX3CL1 in SGHPL-4 trophoblasts increased adhesion of THP-1 monocytes and significantly increased IL8, CCL19, and CCL13 in co-cultures with human primary monocytes. Incubation of primary monocytes with CX3CL1 and subsequent global transcriptome analysis of CD16+ subsets revealed 81 upregulated genes, including clusterin, lipocalin-2, and the leptin receptor. Aldosterone synthase, osteopontin, and cortisone reductase were some of the 66 downregulated genes present. These data suggest that maternal angiotensin II levels influence placental CX3CL1 expression, which, in turn, can affect monocyte to trophoblast adhesion. Release of placental CX3CL1 could promote the pro-inflammatory status of the CD16+ subset of maternal monocytes.
Profiling of LINE-1-Related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Honda Tomoyuki , Rahman Md. Arifur
Published: February 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prime public health concern that accounts for most of the primary liver malignancies in humans. The most common etiological factor of HCC is hepatitis B virus (HBV). Despite recent advances in treatment strategies, there has been little success in improving the survival of HCC patients. To develop a novel therapeutic approach, evaluation of a working hypothesis based on different viewpoints might be important. Long interspersed element 1 (L1) retrotransposons have been suggested to play a role in HCC. However, the molecular machineries that can modulate L1 biology in HBV-related HCC have not been well-evaluated. Here, we summarize the profiles of expression and/or activation status of L1-related genes in HBV-related HCC, and HBV- and HCC-related genes that may impact L1-mediated tumorigenesis. L1 restriction factors appear to be suppressed by HBV infection. Since some of the L1 restriction factors also limit HBV, these factors may be exhausted in HBV-infected cells, which causes de-suppression of L1. Several HBV- and HCC-related genes that interact with L1 can affect oncogenic processes. Thus, L1 may be a novel prime therapeutic target for HBV-related HCC. Studies in this area will provide insights into HCC and other types of cancers.
Human ApoA-I Overexpression Enhances Macrophage-Specific Reverse Cholesterol Transport but Fails to Prevent Inherited Diabesity in Mice
Authors: Méndez-Lara Karen Alejandra , Farré Núria , Santos David , Rivas-Urbina Andrea , Metso Jari , Sánchez-Quesada José Luis , Llorente-Cortes Vicenta , Errico Teresa L. , Lerma Enrique , Jauhiainen Matti , Martín-Campos Jesús M. , Alonso Núria , Escolà-Gil Joan Carles , Blanco-Vaca Francisco , Julve Josep
Published: February 2019

Human apolipoprotein A-I (hApoA-I) overexpression improves high-density lipoprotein (HDL) function and the metabolic complications of obesity. We used a mouse model of diabesity, the db/db mouse, to examine the effects of hApoA-I on the two main functional properties of HDL, i.e., macrophage-specific reverse cholesterol transport (m-RCT) in vivo and the antioxidant potential, as well as the phenotypic features of obesity. HApoA-I transgenic (hA-I) mice were bred with nonobese control (db/+) mice to generate hApoA-I-overexpressing db/+ offspring, which were subsequently bred to obtain hA-I-db/db mice. Overexpression of hApoA-I significantly increased weight gain and the incidence of fatty liver in db/db mice. Weight gain was mainly explained by the increased caloric intake of hA-I-db/db mice (>1.2-fold). Overexpression of hApoA-I also produced a mixed type of dyslipidemia in db/db mice. Despite these deleterious effects, the overexpression of hApoA-I partially restored m-RCT in db/db mice to levels similar to nonobese control mice. Moreover, HDL from hA-I-db/db mice also enhanced the protection against low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation compared with HDL from db/db mice. In conclusion, overexpression of hApoA-I in db/db mice enhanced two main anti-atherogenic HDL properties while exacerbating weight gain and the fatty liver phenotype. These adverse metabolic side-effects were also observed in obese mice subjected to long-term HDL-based therapies in independent studies and might raise concerns regarding the use of hApoA-I-mediated therapy in obese humans.
NF-κB-Associated Pain-Related Neuropeptide Expression in Patients with Degenerative Disc Disease
Authors: Ahmed Aisha S. , Berg Svante , Alkass Kanar , Druid Henrik , Hart David A. , Svensson Camilla I. , Kosek Eva
Published: February 2019

The role of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) has been highlighted in mechanisms underlying inflammatory and neuropathic pain processes. The present study was designed to investigate whether NF-κB signaling is associated with pain-related neuropeptide expression in patients with chronic back pain related to degenerative disc disease (DDD). Intervertebral disc (IVD) tissues were collected from forty DDD patients undergoing disc replacement or fusion surgery, and from eighteen postmortem (PM) control subjects. RELA, NFKB1, CGRP, TAC1, TRPV1, and MMP-3 gene expression were analyzed by RT-qPCR, while NF-κB subunit RelA and NF-κB1–DNA binding in nuclear extracts and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and transient receptor potential, subfamily V, member 1 (TRPV1) protein levels in cytosolic extracts of tissues were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An upregulated NF-κB1–DNA binding, and higher CGRP and TRPV1 protein levels were observed in DDD patients compared to PM controls. In DDD patients, NF-κB1–DNA binding was positively correlated with nuclear RelA levels. Moreover, NF-κB1–DNA binding was positively associated with TRPV1 and MMP-3 gene and SP and TRPV1 protein expression in DDD patients. Our results indicate that the expression of SP and TRPV1 in IVD tissues was associated with NF-κB activation. Moreover, NF-κB may be involved in the generation or maintenance of peripheral pain mechanisms by the regulation of pain-related neuropeptide expression in DDD patients.
Different Signaling Pathways Define Different Interferon-Stimulated Gene Expression during Mycobacteria Infection in Macrophages
Authors: Zhou Xinying , Yang Jiahui , Zhang Zelin , Zhang Lijie , Zhu Bo , Lie Linmiao , Huang Yubin , Ma Rui , Zhou Chaoying , Hu Shengfeng , Wen Qian , Ma Li
Published: February 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) represents one of the greatest threats to human health., Interferons (IFNs) in combination with the first-line of anti-TB drugs have been used for treating TB for decades in the clinic, but how Mtb infection regulates interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in human macrophages (Mϕs) remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression-signature and associated innate signaling mechanisms of ISGs in Mtb-infected human monocyte-derived Mϕs (hMDMs) and THP-1-derived Mϕs (THP-1-Mϕs). Among 28 of the detected ISGs, 90% of them exerted a significant increase in Mtb-infected Mϕs. Additionally, we found that cytosolic cyclic (GMP-AMP) synthase (cGAS), toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2) and TLR-4 signaling pathways participated in ISG induction. Their downstream elements of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) were selectively involved in Mtb-mediated ISG production. Finally, the numerous types of ISG expression in hMDMs of TB patients were more susceptible to restimulation of Mtb infection or/and IFN treatment than that of healthy people. Hence, different signaling pathways define different ISG expression during Mtb infection and this helps to illustrate how ISGs are elucidated and to better understand the host immune responses to Mtb infection in Mϕs.
Cannabinoids Reduce Inflammation but Inhibit Lymphocyte Recovery in Murine Models of Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Khuja Iman , Yekhtin Zhanna , Or Reuven , Almogi-Hazan Osnat
Published: February 2019

Cannabinoids, the biologically active constituents of Cannabis, have potent neuronal and immunological effects. However, the basic and medical research dedicated to medical cannabis and cannabinoids is limited. The influence of these treatments on hematologic reconstitution and on the development of graft versus host disease (GVHD) after bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is largely unknown. In this research, we compared the influence of D9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) on lymphocyte activation in vitro and in murine BMT models. Our in vitro results demonstrate that these treatments decrease activated lymphocyte proliferation and affect cytokine secretion. We also discovered that CBD and THC utilize different receptors to mediate these effects. In vivo, in a syngeneic transplantation model, we demonstrate that all treatments inhibit lymphocyte reconstitution and show the inhibitory role of the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) on lymphocyte recovery. Although pure cannabinoids exhibited a superior effect in vitro, in an allogeneic (C57BL/6 to BALB/c) BMT mouse model, THC-high and CBD-high cannabis extracts treatment reduced the severity of GVHD and improved survival significantly better than the pure cannabinoids. Our results highlights the complexity of using cannabinoids-based treatments and the need for additional comparative scientific results.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Electrochemistry and Electro-Catalytic Properties of the Manganese-Containing Polyoxotungstate, [(Mn(H2O)3)2(H2W12O42)]6−
Authors: Teillout Anne-Lucie , de Oliveira Pedro , Marrot Jérôme , Howell Robertha C. , Vilà Neus , Walcarius Alain , Mbomekallé Israël M.
Published: February 2019

We present the synthesis and structural characterization of the manganese-containing polyoxotungstate, [(Mn(H2O)3)2(H2W12O42)]6− (1), obtained by reaction of MnCl2 with six equivalents of Na2WO4 in the presence of Zn(CH3COO)2 in acetate medium (pH 4.7). This has been assessed by various techniques (FTIR, TGA, UV-Visible, XPS, elemental analysis, single crystal X-ray and electrochemistry). Single-crystal X-ray analyses showed that, in the solid state, 1 forms a 2-D network in which [H2W12O42]10− fragments are linked in pairs via Mn2+ ions, leading to linear chains of the form [(Mn(H2O)3)2(H2W12O42)]n6n−. The connection between chains occurs also via Mn2+ ions which bind [H2W12O42]10− fragments belonging to two adjacent chains, forming an infinite 2-D network. A complete electrochemical study was done in aqueous solution where 1 is stable in the pH range 1 to 6. This complex undergoes multiple electron-transfer processes that lead to the electro-generation of manganese high oxidation state species that catalyse water electro-oxidation. 1 is also effective in the electro-catalytic reduction of nitrite and dioxygen.
Machine Learning Applications: The Past and Current Research Trend in Diverse Industries
Authors: Ameri Sianaki Omid , Yousefi Ashkan , Tabesh Azadeh Rajabian , Mahdavi Mehregan
Published: February 2019

Dramatic changes in the way we collect and process data has facilitated the emergence of a new era by providing customised services and products precisely based on the needs of clients according to processed big data. It is estimated that the number of connected devices to the internet will pass 35 billion by 2020. Further, there has also been a massive escalation in the amount of data collection tools as Internet of Things devices generate data which has big data characteristics known as five V (volume, velocity, variety, variability and value). This article reviews challenges, opportunities and research trends to address the issues related to the data era in three industries including smart cities, healthcare and transportation. All three of these industries could greatly benefit from machine learning and deep learning techniques on big data collected by the Internet of Things, which is named as the internet of everything to emphasise the role of connected devices for data collection. In the smart grid portion of this paper, the recently developed deep reinforcement learning techniques and their applications in Smart Cities are also presented and reviewed.
Thermoplastic Reaction Injection Pultrusion for Continuous Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polyamide-6 Composites
Authors: Chen Ke , Jia Mingyin , Sun Hua , Xue Ping
Published: February 2019

In this paper, glass fiber-reinforced polyamide-6 (PA-6) composites with up to 70 wt% fiber contents were successfully manufactured using a pultrusion process, utilizing the anionic polymerization of caprolactam (a monomer of PA-6). A novel thermoplastic reaction injection pultrusion test line was developed with a specifically designed injection chamber to achieve complete impregnation of fiber bundles and high speed pultrusion. Process parameters like temperature of injection chamber, temperature of pultrusion die, and pultrusion speed were studied and optimized. The effects of die temperature on the crystallinity, melting point, and mechanical properties of the pultruded composites were also evaluated. The pultruded composites exhibited the highest flexural strength and flexural modulus, reaching 1061 MPa and 38,384 MPa, respectively. Then, effects of fiber contents on the density, heat distortion temperature, and mechanical properties of the composites were analyzed. The scanning electron microscope analysis showed the great interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrix at 180 °C, which greatly improved the mechanical properties of the composites. The thermoplastic reaction injection pultrusion in this paper provided an alternative for the preparation of thermoplastic composites with high fiber content.
A Mechanical Sensor Using Hybridized Metamolecules
Authors: Li Haohua , Wang Xiaobo , Yang Tian , Zhou Ji
Published: February 2019

Hybridized metamaterials with collective mode resonance are usually applied as sensors. In this paper, we make use of one Mie-based hybridized metamolecule comprising of dielectric meta-atoms and an elastic bonding layer in order to detect the distances and applied forces. The hybridization induced splitting results in two new collective resonance modes, of which the red-shifted mode behaves as the in-phase oscillation of two meta-atoms. Owing to the synergy of the oscillation, the in-phase resonance appears as a deep dip with a relatively high Q-factor and figure of merit (FoM). By exerting an external force, namely by adjusting the thickness of the bonding layer, the coupling strength of the metamolecule is changed. As the coupling strength increases, the first collective mode dip red-shifts increasingly toward lower frequencies. By fitting the relationship of the distance–frequency shift and the force–frequency shift, the metamolecule can be used as a sensor to characterize tiny displacement and a relatively wide range of applied force in civil engineering and biological engineering.
Differences of Curing Effects between a Human and Veterinary Bone Cement
Authors: Kallol K. M. Z. , Motalab M. , Parvej M. S. , Konari P. R. , Barghouthi H. , Khandaker M.
Published: February 2019

The goal of the study is to understand how the curing characteristics of a human bone cement (HBC) and veterinary bone cement (VBC) influence the mechanical behavior of each cement and cement bonding with an implant. This study hypothesizes that the curing temperature and time influence the mechanical properties of the cement adjacent to the implant, which resulted in the variability in bonding strength between the implant and cement. To test this hypothesis, this study measured the exothermic temperature, flexural strength, hardness, and morphology of a HBC and VBC at different curing times. In addition, this study measured shear strength at the interfaces of implant/HBC and implant/VBC samples during static and stepwise cyclic tests at different curing times. This study used Stryker Simplex P and BioMedtrix 3 poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) as an HBC and VBC, respectively. This study cured HBC and VBC cement for 30 and 60 min and then conducted flexural, hardness, and interface fracture tests to evaluate the curing effect on mechanical behavior of each of the cements. This study found that the curing time significantly increases the values of flexure and hardness properties of each cement and shear strength of implant/HBC and implant/VBC (p < 0.05). This study observed a difference of curing time and temperature between HBC and VBC. This study also observed a significant difference of surface porosity at the interface of implant/HBC and implant/VBC interfaces. The variability of mechanical properties between HBC and VBC due to the differences of curing conditions may influence the bonding of cement with the implant.
An Overview of Parameters Controlling the Decomposition and Degradation of Ti-Based Mn+1AXn Phases
Authors: Low It-Meng
Published: February 2019

A critical overview of the various parameters, such as annealing atmospheres, pore microstructures, and pore sizes, that are critical in controlling the decomposition kinetics of Ti-based MAX phases is given in this paper. Ti-based MAX phases tend to decompose readily above 1400 °C during vacuum annealing to binary carbide (e.g., TiCx) or binary nitride (e.g., TiNx), primarily through the sublimation of A elements such as Al or Si, forming in a porous MXx surface layer. Arrhenius Avrami equations were used to determine the activation energy of phase decomposition and to model the kinetics of isothermal phase decomposition. Ironically, the understanding of phase decomposition via exfoliating or selective de-intercalation by chemical etching formed the catalyst for the sensational discovery of Mxenes in 2011. Other controlling parameters that also promote decomposition or degradation as reported in the literature are also briefly reviewed and these include effects of pressure and ion irradiations.
Synergistic Effect of Marble Powder and Green Sand on the Mechanical Properties of Metakaolin-Cement Concrete
Authors: Natarajan Sakthieswaran , Murugesan Priyanka
Published: February 2019

The aim of this paper is to study experimentally the effect of marble powder and green sand as partial substitute for fine aggregate on the strength and durability of M40 grade concrete. The use of metakaolin as a pozzolanic admixture by using as binder replacement is also studied to assess the properties with respect to fresh and hardened state. Several formulations were prepared with constant water-binder ratio 0.4 and varying percentages of marble powder and green sand. The results indicated that the properties of concrete were much enhanced by extent incorporation of marble powder and green sand as fine aggregate and metakaolin for cement when compared to normal concrete. The microscopic studies also confirmed the viability of using green sand and marble powder as fine aggregates.
A New Cutting Tool Design for Cryogenic Machining of Ti–6Al–4V Titanium Alloy
Authors: Shokrani Alborz , Newman Stephen T
Published: February 2019

Titanium alloys are extensively used in aerospace and medical industries. About 15% of modern civil aircrafts are made from titanium alloys. Ti–6Al–4V, the most used titanium alloy, is widely considered a difficult-to-machine material due to short tool life, poor surface integrity, and low productivity during machining. Cryogenic machining using liquid nitrogen (LN2) has shown promising advantages in increasing tool life and material removal rate whilst improving surface integrity. However, to date, there is no study on cutting tool geometry and its performance relationship in cryogenic machining. This paper presents the first investigation on various cutting tool geometries for cryogenic end milling of Ti–6Al–4V alloy. The investigations revealed that a 14° rake angle and a 10° primary clearance angle are the most suitable geometries for cryogenic machining. The effect of cutting speed on tool life was also studied. The analysis indicated that 110 m/min cutting speed yields the longest tool life of 91 min whilst allowing for up to 83% increased productivity when machining Ti–6Al–4V. Overall the research shows significant impact in machining performance of Ti–6Al–4V with much higher material removal rate.
Evaluation of Reliefs’ Properties on Design of Thermoformed Packaging Using Fused Deposition Modelling Moulds
Authors: Rodríguez-Parada Lucía , Mayuet Pedro F. , Gámez Antonio J.
Published: February 2019

The increased consumption of food requiring thermoformed packaging implies that the packaging industry demands customized solutions in terms of shapes and sizes to make each packaging unique. In particular, food industry increasingly requires more transparent packaging, with greater clarity and a better presentation of the product they contain. However, in turn, the differentiation of packaging is sought through its geometry and quality, as well as the arrangement of food inside the packaging. In addition, these types of packaging usually include ribs in the walls to improve their physical properties. However, these ribs also affect the final aesthetics of the product. In accordance with this, this research study analyses the mechanical properties of different relief geometries that can affect not only their aesthetics but also their strength. For this purpose, tensile and compression tests were carried out using thermoformed PET sheets. The results provide comparative data on the reliefs studied and show that there are differences in the mechanical properties according to shape, size and disposition in the package.