bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of Multiorientated Polycrystalline MoS2 Using Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Liu Na , Kim Jeonghun , Oh Jeonghyeon , Nguyen Quang Trung , Sahu Bibhuti Bhusan , Han Jeong Geon , Kim Sunkook
Published: July 2020

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has attracted considerable attention as a promising electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the catalytic HER performance of MoS2 is significantly limited by the few active sites and low electrical conductivity. In this study, the growth of multiorientated polycrystalline MoS2 using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) for the HER is achieved. The MoS2 is synthesized by sulfurizing a sputtered pillar-shaped Mo film. The relatively low growth temperature during the PECVD process results in multiorientated MoS2 with an expanded interlayer spacing of ~0.75 nm, which provides abundant active sites, a reduced Gibbs free energy of H adsorption, and enhanced intralayer conductivity. In HER applications, the PECVD-grown MoS2 exhibits an overpotential value of 0.45 V, a Tafel slope of 76 mV dec−1, and excellent stability in strong acidic media for 10 h. The high HER performance achieved in this study indicates that two-dimensional MoS2 has potential as an electrocatalyst for next-generation energy technologies.
Evaluation of the Shear Bond Strength and Antibacterial Activity of Orthodontic Adhesive Containing Silver Nanoparticle, an In-Vitro Study
Authors: Eslamian Ladan , Borzabadi-Farahani Ali , Karimi Shahedeh , Saadat Sepideh , Badiee Mohammad Reza
Published: July 2020

This study evaluated the effect of incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into conventional orthodontic adhesive on its antibacterial activity and the shear bond strength (SBS) to stainless steel orthodontic brackets. Thirty-four extracted premolars were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 17). Orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT, 3M Unitek) was blended with AgNPs (50 nm, 0.3% w/w) to form a nano-adhesive. In order to bond stainless steel twin brackets (0.022-inch, American Orthodontics), Transbond XT (n = 17) and nano-adhesive (n = 17) were used in each group, respectively, after acid etching (37% phosphoric acid, 30 s) and rinsing with water (15 s). SBS and the adhesive remnant index (ARI) scores were recorded. Antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans in both groups after 24 h and 30 days was assessed (Disc agar diffusion test) and the inhibition zone diameter around each specimen was measured and recorded. Adding AgNPs significantly (p = 0.009) reduced the mean (SD) SBS in the nano-adhesive group [10.51(7.15) MPa] compared to Transbond XT [17.72(10.55) MPa]. The ARI scores on the Transbond XT and nano-adhesive showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.322). Nano-adhesive with AgNPs showed significant antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans at 24 h and 30 days (p < 0.001). In both groups, no significant decline in the zones of inhibition was detected after 30 days (p = 0.907). The findings suggest that SBS decreased after incorporation of AgNPs [0.3% (w/w)], but was still above the recommended SBS of 5.9–7.8 MPa. The nano-adhesive showed significant antibacterial activity which did not change much after 30 days.
Exposure Route of TiO2 NPs from Industrial Applications to Wastewater Treatment and Their Impacts on the Agro-Environment
Authors: Zahra Zahra , Habib Zunaira , Chung Sujin , Badshah Mohsin Ali
Published: July 2020

The tremendous increase in the production and consumption of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) in numerous industrial products and applications has augmented the need to understand their role in wastewater treatment technologies. Likewise, the deleterious effects of wastewater on the environment and natural resources have compelled researchers to find out most suitable, economical and environment friendly approaches for its treatment. In this context, the use of TiO2 NPs as the representative of photocatalytic technology for industrial wastewater treatment is coming to the horizon. For centuries, the use of industrial wastewater to feed agriculture land has been a common practice across the globe and the sewage sludge generated from wastewater treatment plants is also used as fertilizer in agricultural soils. Therefore, it is necessary to be aware of possible exposure pathways of these NPs, especially in the perspective of wastewater treatment and their impacts on the agro-environment. This review highlights the potential exposure route of TiO2 NPs from industrial applications to wastewater treatment and its impacts on the agro-environment. Key elements of the review present the recent developments of TiO2 NPs in two main sectors including wastewater treatment and the agro-environment along with their potential exposure pathways. Furthermore, the direct exposure routes of these NPs from production to end-user consumption until their end phase needs to be studied in detail and optimization of their suitable applications and controlled use to ensure environmental safety.
Comprehensive Performance Quasi-Non-Volatile Memory Compatible with Large-Scale Preparation by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Yang Kun , Liu Hongxia , Wang Shulong , Yu Wenlong , Han Tao
Published: July 2020

Two-dimensional materials with atomic thickness have become candidates for wearable electronic devices in the future. Graphene and transition metal sulfides have received extensive attention in logic computing and sensing applications due to their lower power dissipation, so that their processes have been relatively mature for large-scale preparation. However, there are a few applications of two-dimensional materials in storage, which is not in line with the development trend of integration of storage and computing. Here, a charge storage quasi-non-volatile memory with a lanthanum incorporation high-k dielectric for next-generation memory devices is proposed. Thanks to the excellent electron capture capability of LaAlO3, the MoS2 memory exhibits a very comprehensive information storage capability, including robust endurance and ultra-fast write speed of 1 ms approximately. It is worth mentioning that it exhibits a long-term stable charge storage capacity (refresh time is about 1000 s), which is 105 times that of the dynamic random access memory (refresh time is on a milliseconds timescale) so that the unnecessary power dissipation greatly reduces caused by frequent refresh. In addition, its simple manufacturing process makes it compatible with various current two-dimensional electronic devices, which will greatly promote the integration of two-dimensional electronic computing.
Green Graphene–Chitosan Sorbent Materials for Mercury Water Remediation
Authors: Bessa Ana , Gonçalves Gil , Henriques Bruno , Domingues Eddy M. , Pereira Eduarda , Marques Paula A. A. P.
Published: July 2020

The development of new graphene-based nanocomposites able to provide synergistic effects for the adsorption of toxic heavy metals in realistic conditions (environment) is of higher demand for future applications. This work explores the preparation of a green nanocomposite based on the self-assembly of graphene oxide (GO) with chitosan (CH) for the remediation of Hg(II) in different water matrices, including ultrapure and natural waters (tap water, river water, and seawater). Starting at a concentration of 50 μg L–1, the results showed that GO–CH nanocomposite has an excellent adsorption capacity of Hg (II) using very small doses (10 mg L–1) in ultrapure water with a removal percentage (% R) of 97 % R after only two hours of contact time. In the case of tap water, the % R was 81.4% after four hours of contact time. In the case of river and seawater, the GO–CH nanocomposite showed a limited performance due the high complexity of the water matrices, leading to a residual removal of Hg(II). The obtained removal of Hg(II) at equilibrium in river and seawater for GO–CH was 13% R and 7% R, respectively. Our studies conducted with different mimicked sea waters revealed that the removal of mercury is not affected by the presence of NO3– and Na+ (>90% R of Hg(II)); however, in the presence of Cl–, the mercury removal was virtually nonexistent (1% R of Hg(II)), most likely because of the formation of very stable chloro-complexes of Hg(II) with less affinity towards GO–CH.
Dual-Wavelength Excited Intense Red Upconversion Luminescence from Er3+-Sensitized Y2O3 Nanocrystals Fabricated by Spray Flame Synthesis
Authors: Zhao Xiaofan , Wu Zeyun , Yang Zining , Yang Xu , Zhang Yiyang , Yuan Maohui , Han Kai , Song Changqing , Jiang Zongfu , Wang Hongyan , Li Shuiqing , Xu Xiaojun
Published: July 2020

Er3+-sensitized upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have attracted great attention due to their tunable upconversion (UC) emissions, low cytotoxicity, high resistance to photobleaching and especially multiple effective excitation wavelengths. However, detailed energy conversion between Er3+ and Tm3+ ions in Y2O3 UCNPs is still a problem, especially under multi-wavelength and variable pulse width excitation. In this work, we successfully fabricated a series of Er3+-sensitized Y2O3 nanocrystals by a spray flame synthesis method with a production rate of 40.5 g h−1. The as-prepared UCNPs are a pure cubic phase with a mean size of 14 nm. Excited by both 980 and 808 nm lasers, the tunable upconversion luminescence (UCL) from Er3+ ions was achieved by increasing the Er3+ doping concentration, co-doping Tm3+ ions and extending excitation pulse-width. The investigations of the lifetimes and the laser power dependence of UC emissions further support the proposed mechanism, which provides guidance for achieving effective color control in anticounterfeiting and multiplexed labeling applications. In addition, the red UC emission at about 5 mm beneath the tissue surface was observed in an ex vivo imaging experiment under the excitation of 808 nm laser, indicating that the Y2O3:Er3+/Tm3+ UCNPs have great prospects in further biological applications.
NonToxic Silver/Poly-1-Vinyl-1,2,4-Triazole Nanocomposite Materials with Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Shurygina Irina A. , Prozorova Galina F. , Trukhan Irina S. , Korzhova Svetlana A. , Fadeeva Tatiana V. , Pozdnyakov Alexander S. , Dremina Nataliya N. , Emel’yanov Artem I. , Kuznetsova Nadezhda P. , Shurygin Michael G.
Published: July 2020

Novel silver/poly-1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole nanocomposite materials—possessing antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria—have been synthesized and characterized in the solid state and aqueous solution by complex of modern physical-chemical and biologic methods. TEM-monitoring has revealed the main stages of microbial cell (E. coli) destruction by novel nanocomposite. The concept of direct polarized destruction of microbes by nanosilver proposed by the authors allows the relationship between physicochemical and antimicrobial properties of novel nanocomposites. At the same time, it was shown that the nanocomposite was nontoxic to the fibroblast cell culture. Thus, the synthesized nanocomposite combining antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as the absence of toxic effects on mammalian cells is a promising material for the development of catheters, coatings for medical devices.
Fabrication of Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Beaded Fibers for Rosmarinic Acid
Authors: Saad Engy M. , El Gohary Nesrine Abdelrehim , El-Shenawy Basma M. , Handoussa Heba , Klingner Anke , Elwi Mohamed , Hamed Youssef , Khalil Islam S. M. , El Nashar Rasha Mohamed , Mizaikoff Boris
Published: July 2020

The present study describes the fabrication of molecularly imprinted (MI) magnetic beaded fibers using electrospinning. Rosmarinic acid was selected as exemplary yet relevant template during molecular imprinting. A “design of experiments” methodology was used for optimizing the electrospinning process. Four factors, i.e., the concentration of the biodegradable polymer (polycaprolactone), the applied voltage, the flow rate, and the collector distance were varied in a central composite design. The production process was then optimized according to the suitability of the beaded fibers during microrobot fabrication, actuation, and drug release. The optimum average fiber diameter of MI beaded fibers was determined at 857 ± 390 nm with an average number of beads at 0.011 ± 0.002 per µm2. In vitro release profiles of the optimized MI beaded fibers revealed a lower burst rate and a more sustained release when compared to control fibers. Magnetic control of the MI beaded fibers was successfully tested by following selected waypoints along a star-shaped predefined trajectory. This study innovatively combines molecular imprinting technology with magnetic microrobots enabling targeted drug delivery systems that offer precise motion control via the magnetic response of microrobots along with selective uptake of a drug into the microrobot using MI beaded fibers in future.
Urinary Metabolomic Profile of Preterm Infants Receiving Human Milk with Either Bovine or Donkey Milk-Based Fortifiers
Authors: Giribaldi Marzia , Peila Chiara , Coscia Alessandra , Cavallarin Laura , Antoniazzi Sara , Corbu Sara , Maiocco Giulia , Sottemano Stefano , Cresi Francesco , Moro Guido E. , Bertino Enrico , Fanos Vassilios , Cesare Marincola Flaminia
Published: July 2020

Fortification of human milk (HM) for preterm and very low-birth weight (VLBW) infants is a standard practice in most neonatal intensive care units. The optimal fortification strategy and the most suitable protein source for achieving better tolerance and growth rates for fortified infants are still being investigated. In a previous clinical trial, preterm and VLBW infants receiving supplementation of HM with experimental donkey milk-based fortifiers (D-HMF) showed decreased signs of feeding intolerance, including feeding interruptions, bilious gastric residuals and vomiting, with respect to infants receiving bovine milk-based fortifiers (B-HMF). In the present ancillary study, the urinary metabolome of infants fed B-HMF (n = 27) and D-HMF (n = 27) for 21 days was analyzed by 1H NMR spectroscopy at the beginning (T0) and at the end (T1) of the observation period. Results showed that most temporal changes in the metabolic responses were common in the two groups, providing indications of postnatal adaptation. The significantly higher excretion of galactose in D-HMF and of carnitine, choline, lysine and leucine in B-HMF at T1 were likely due to different formulations. In conclusion, isocaloric and isoproteic HM fortification may result in different metabolic patterns, as a consequence of the different quality of the nutrients provided by the fortifiers.
Dolphins Stranded along the Tuscan Coastline (Central Italy) of the “Pelagos Sanctuary”: A Parasitological Investigation
Authors: Terracciano Giuliana , Fichi Gianluca , Comentale Antonia , Ricci Enrica , Mancusi Cecilia , Perrucci Stefania
Published: July 2020

Parasite monitoring is considered a necessary step for cetacean management and conservation. Between February 2013 and July 2015, 26 dolphins (15 Stenella coeruleoalba, 10 Tursiops truncatus, and one Grampus griseus) stranded along the Tuscan coastline of the protected marine area “Pelagos Sanctuary”, were examined. Organs, tissues, and faecal and blood samples taken from all animals were analysed by parasitological, immunological, and molecular techniques. Twenty-one out of 26 dolphins (80.77%) tested positive for at least one parasite species, and 13/15 (86.7%) S. coeruleoalba, 7/10 (70%) T. truncatus, and the single G. griseus were found positive. Identified parasites included the nematodes Skrjabinalius guevarai (7.69%, 2/26), Halocercus lagenorhynchi (3.85%, 1/26), Halocercus delphini (7.69%, 2/26), Stenurus ovatus (7.69%, 2/26), Crassicauda spp. (7.69%, 2/26); the trematodes Pholeter gastrophilus (26.92%, 7/26), Campula palliata (3.85%, 1/26); the cestodes Phyllobothrium delphini (42.31%, 11/26), Monorygma grimaldii (23.08%, 6/26), Tetrabothrium forsteri (7.69%, 2/26), Strobilocephalus triangularis (7.69%, 2/26), and the acanthocephalan Bolbosoma vasculosum (7.69%, 2/26). Moreover, 6/26 (23%) animals scored positive to Toxoplasma gondii at serology, but PCR confirmed the infection (T. gondii Type II genotype) in a single animal. In examined dolphins, obtained results showed a high prevalence of endoparasites, which included species considered as a cause of severe debilitation or death.
Modulation of Host Lipid Pathways by Pathogenic Intracellular Bacteria
Authors: Allen Paige E. , Martinez Juan J.
Published: July 2020

Lipids are a broad group of molecules required for cell maintenance and homeostasis. Various intracellular pathogens have developed mechanisms of modulating and sequestering host lipid processes for a large array of functions for both bacterial and host cell survival. Among the host cell lipid functions that intracellular bacteria exploit for infection are the modulation of host plasma membrane microdomains (lipid rafts) required for efficient bacterial entry; the recruitment of specific lipids for membrane integrity of intracellular vacuoles; and the utilization of host lipid droplets for the regulation of immune responses and for energy production through fatty acid β-oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation. The majority of published studies on the utilization of these host lipid pathways during infection have focused on intracellular bacterial pathogens that reside within a vacuole during infection and, thus, have vastly different requirements for host lipid metabolites when compared to those intracellular pathogens that are released into the host cytosol upon infection. Here we summarize the mechanisms by which intracellular bacteria sequester host lipid species and compare the modulation of host lipid pathways and metabolites during host cell infection by intracellular pathogens residing in either a vacuole or within the cytosol of infected mammalian cells. This review will also highlight common and unique host pathways necessary for intracellular bacterial growth that could potentially be targeted for therapeutic intervention.
Trump and the Politics of International Religious Freedom
Authors: Haynes Jeffrey
Published: July 2020

The article examines the USA’s international religious freedom policy during the presidency of Donald Trump. It argues that the Trump administration consistently prioritised America’s international religious freedom (IRF) policy according to Judeo-Christian values. This contrasted with previous administrations, which did not pursue such a clear Christocentric approach. The Trump administration has pursued the policy with vigour, drawing on Judeo-Christian ideology and prioritising religious freedom above other human rights, such as equality for women and sexual minorities. The article begins with a brief summary of the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA), signed into law by President Clinton in 1998. It then examines the influence of Judeo-Christian ideology on Trump’s international religious freedom policy. To do this, the article surveys three recent initiatives: the Commission on Unalienable Rights, the annual Ministerial to Advance International Religious Freedom, and the International Religious Freedom Alliance. I argue that collectively the initiatives promote the paramountcy of Judeo-Christian ideology. The article concludes that the Trump administration’s international religious freedom is strongly informed by a Judeo-Christian ideology which seeks to place religious freedom first in a hierarchy of human rights, while relegating others, especially equality for females and sexual minorities, to a lesser position.
Advanced Contemplation of the Impure: Reflections on a Capstone Event in the Meditation Sutra
Authors: Mohr Michel
Published: July 2020

The present article explores the form of meditation called contemplation of the impure (Skt aśubha-bhāvanā; Ch. bújìng guān 不淨觀) and its meticulous description in a Chinese text produced in the early fifth century CE. It illustrates the problematic nature of the pure-impure polarity and suggests that, ultimately, “purity” refers to two different things. As a generic category, it can be understood as a mental construct resulting from the mind’s discursive functioning, which tends to be further complicated by cultural factors. The other avenue for interpreting “purity” is provided in this meditation manual, which describes how meditation on impurity leads to the direct perception of purity, and to the vision of a “pure land.” This stage is identified as a “sign” marking the completion of this contemplative practice. Examining the specific nature of this capstone event and some of its implications lies at the core of the research whose initial results are presented here. Although this particular Buddhist contemplation of the impure begins with mental images of decaying corpses, it culminates with the manifestation of a vision filling the practitioner with a sense of light and purity. This high point indicates when the practice has been successful, an event that coincides for practitioners with a time when they catch a glimpse of their true nature. The last section of this article further discusses the extent to which positing an intrinsically pure nature—one of the major innovations introduced by Buddhism in fifth-century China—could inform ethical views.
Investigation of Slow-Moving Artificial Slope Failure with Multi-Temporal InSAR by Combining Persistent and Distributed Scatterers: A Case Study in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Liang Hongyu , Li Xin , Zhang Lei , Chen Rou-Fei , Ding Xiaoli , Chen Kuo-Long , Wang Chi-Shan , Chang Chia-Shin , Chi Chien-Yu
Published: July 2020

In Taiwan, landslides pose serious threats to local residents and infrastructures each year due to high mountain relief and distinct seasonal precipitation distribution. Interferometric synthetic aperture (InSAR) provides a powerful tool to map terrain motion and characterize the failure mechanism of unstable slopes. However, it is challenging for the conventional InSAR technique to obtain reliable landslide information in mountainous regions because of insufficient coherent measurements and signal confusion caused by vegetation coverage and rugged terrain. In this study, we adopt an optimized multi-temporal InSAR (MTInSAR) approach to analyze the surface displacement of an artificial side slope along Freeway No. 3, where a catastrophic landslide failure occurred on 25 April 2010, in northern Taiwan. To increase the spatial extent of the deformation signal, we integrate information from both persistent scatterers (PSs) and distributed scatterers (DSs). Topographic residual and height-dependent atmospheric delays are corrected by a component-based method and joint model estimation, respectively. The results reveal the existence of slope movement with a rate of about −30 mm/year prior to the landslide failure. Further analysis shows that the temporal behaviors of downslope movement are correlated with local precipitation. The study demonstrates the need to continuously monitor and verify the stability of artificial slopes to prevent and minimize the probability of a similar landslide occurrence in the future.
A Simple Algorithm for Deriving an NDVI-Based Index Compatible between GEO and LEO Sensors: Capabilities and Limitations in Japan
Authors: Obata Kenta , Yoshioka Hiroki
Published: July 2020

Geostationary (GEO) satellite sensors provide earth observation data with a high temporal frequency and can complement low earth orbit (LEO) sensors in monitoring terrestrial vegetation. Consistency between GEO and LEO observation data is thus critical to the synergistic use of the sensors; however, mismatch between the sun–target–sensor viewing geometries in the middle-to-high latitude region and the sensor-specific spectral response functions (SRFs) introduce systematic errors into GEO–LEO products such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). If one can find a parameter in which the value is less influenced by geometric conditions and SRFs, it would be invaluable for the synergistic use of the multiple sensors. This study attempts to develop an algorithm to obtain such parameters (NDVI-based indices), which are equivalent to fraction of vegetation cover (FVC) computed from NDVI and endmember spectra. The algorithm was based on a linear mixture model (LMM) with automated computation of the parameters, i.e., endmember spectra. The algorithm was evaluated through inter-comparison between NDVI-based indices using off-nadir GEO observation data from the Himawari 8 Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI) and near-nadir LEO observation data from the Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) as a reference over land surfaces in Japan at middle latitudes. Results showed that scene-dependent biases between the NDVI-based indices of sensors were −0.0004±0.018 (mean ± standard deviation). Small biases were observed in areas in which the fractional abundances of vegetation were likely less sensitive to the view zenith angle. Agreement between the NDVI-based indices of the sensors was, in general, better than the agreement between the NDVI values. Importantly, the developed algorithm does not require regression analysis for reducing biases between the indices. The algorithm should assist in the development of algorithms for performing inter-sensor translations of vegetation indices using the NDVI-based index as a parameter.
Development of Synchronized High-Sensitivity Wireless Accelerometer for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Veluthedath Shajihan Shaik , Chow Raymond , Mechitov Kirill , Fu Yuguang , Hoang Tu , Spencer Billie
Published: July 2020

The use of digital accelerometers featuring high sensitivity and low noise levels in wireless smart sensors (WSSs) is becoming increasingly common for structural health monitoring (SHM) applications. Improvements in the design of Micro Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) based digital accelerometers allow for high resolution sensing required for SHM with low power consumption suitable for WSSs. However, new approaches are needed to synchronize data from these sensors. Data synchronization is essential in wireless smart sensor networks (WSSNs) for accurate condition assessment of structures and reduced false-positive indications of damage. Efforts to achieve synchronized data sampling from multiple WSS nodes with digital accelerometers have been lacking, primarily because these sensors feature an internal Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) to which the host platform has no direct access. The result is increased uncertainty in the ADC startup time and thus worse synchronization among sensors. In this study, a high-sensitivity digital accelerometer is integrated with a next-generation WSS platform, the Xnode. An adaptive iterative algorithm is used to characterize these delays without the need for a dedicated evaluation setup and hardware-level access to the ADC. Extensive tests are conducted to evaluate the performance of the accelerometer experimentally. Overall time-synchronization achieved is under 15 µs, demonstrating the efficacy of this approach for synchronization of critical SHM applications.
Impact of Surface Chemistry and Doping Concentrations on Biofunctionalization of GaN/Ga‒In‒N Quantum Wells
Authors: Naskar Nilanjon , Schneidereit Martin F. , Huber Florian , Chakrabortty Sabyasachi , Veith Lothar , Mezger Markus , Kirste Lutz , Fuchs Theo , Diemant Thomas , Weil Tanja , Behm R. Jürgen , Thonke Klaus , Scholz Ferdinand
Published: July 2020

The development of sensitive biosensors, such as gallium nitride (GaN)-based quantum wells, transistors, etc., often makes it necessary to functionalize GaN surfaces with small molecules or even biomolecules, such as proteins. As a first step in surface functionalization, we have investigated silane adsorption, as well as the formation of very thin silane layers. In the next step, the immobilization of the tetrameric protein streptavidin (as well as the attachment of chemically modified iron transport protein ferritin (ferritin-biotin-rhodamine complex)) was realized on these films. The degree of functionalization of the GaN surfaces was determined by fluorescence measurements with fluorescent-labeled proteins; silane film thickness and surface roughness were estimated, and also other surface sensitive techniques were applied. The formation of a monolayer consisting of adsorbed organosilanes was accomplished on Mg-doped GaN surfaces, and also functionalization with proteins was achieved. We found that very high Mg doping reduced the amount of surface functionalized proteins. Most likely, this finding was a consequence of the lower concentration of ionizable Mg atoms in highly Mg-doped layers as a consequence of self-compensation effects. In summary, we could demonstrate the necessity of Mg doping for achieving reasonable bio-functionalization of GaN surfaces.
Invalid-Resource-Aware Spectrum Assignment for Advanced-Reservation Traffic in Elastic Optical Network
Authors: He Shufang , Qiu Yang , Xu Jing
Published: July 2020

Elastic optical networks (EONs) can make service accommodation more flexible and precise by employing efficient routing and spectrum allocation (RSA) algorithms. In order to improve the efficiency of RSA algorithms, the advanced-reservation technique was introduced into designing RSA algorithms. However, few of these advanced-reservation-based RSA algorithms were focused on the unavailable spectrum resources in EONs. In this paper, we propose an Advanced-Reservation-based Invalid-Spectrum-Aware (AR-ISA) resource allocation algorithm to improve the networking performance and the resource alignment of EONs. By employing a new index, Invalid Spectrum Rate (ISR), to record the proportion of unavailable spectrum resources in EONs, the proposed AR-ISA algorithm set a network load threshold to trigger the postponement of an arriving service. Compared with the traditional slack-based AR mechanism, the proposed algorithm has more concerns about the current spectrum usage of the path designated by the service than the conflicts between AR services and other existing services. To further increase the networking performance, the proposed algorithm adopts defragmentation to increase the number of available spectrum resources when postponing a service. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed AR-ISA algorithm has obvious effectiveness in reducing the service blocking rate and increasing the spectrum alignment rate.
An Energy-Efficient Fall Detection Method Based on FD-DNN for Elderly People
Authors: Liu Leyuan , Hou Yibin , He Jian , Lungu Jonathan , Dong Ruihai
Published: July 2020

A fall detection module is an important component of community-based care for the elderly to reduce their health risk. It requires the accuracy of detections as well as maintains energy saving. In order to meet the above requirements, a sensing module-integrated energy-efficient sensor was developed which can sense and cache the data of human activity in sleep mode, and an interrupt-driven algorithm is proposed to transmit the data to a server integrated with ZigBee. Secondly, a deep neural network for fall detection (FD-DNN) running on the server is carefully designed to detect falls accurately. FD-DNN, which combines the convolutional neural networks (CNN) with long short-term memory (LSTM) algorithms, was tested on both with online and offline datasets. The experimental result shows that it takes advantage of CNN and LSTM, and achieved 99.17% fall detection accuracy, while its specificity and sensitivity are 99.94% and 94.09%, respectively. Meanwhile, it has the characteristics of low power consumption.
High Precision Wide Bandwidth DC Current Transducer Based on the Platiše Flux Sensor
Authors: Platiše Uroš , Kanalec Tomaž , Mohorčič Mihael
Published: July 2020

In the last decade, we observed a noticeable increase in direct-current systems (DC), particularly in solar power generation, grid storage systems, and electric mobility. Some of these systems may require high-voltage isolation and peak currents in excess of kA. The existing standard compact and lower cost current sensing solutions hardly ever achieve an overall measurement uncertainty below 1% mainly due to offsets and hysteresis; their typical bandwidth is about 250 kHz, and they may also be noisy. This article presents a new method of isolated DC and AC current measurement based on a single gapless core and the innovative Platiše Flux Sensor. After verification in a mixed-signal simulator, the method was implemented in a functional prototype of a DC current transducer (CT) and thoroughly tested in a reference setup. The performance tests showed a low offset and hysteresis, a bandwidth in the MHz range, low power consumption, and low noise operation. Furthermore, the low current transducer achieved a typical uncertainty of less than 0.2% and a linearity of less than 200 ppm, which indicates an overall superior performance compared to representative comparable CTs based on alternative technologies. In addition to the areas of application mentioned above, the new type of DC-CT can be used for general purpose metering, measurement instrumentation, and high power DC and AC systems.
Disaggregating the Asian “Other”: Heterogeneity and Methodological Issues in Research on Asian Americans with Disabilities
Authors: Hasnain Rooshey , Fujiura Glenn T. , Capua John E. , Bui Tuyen Thi Thanh , Khan Safiy
Published: July 2020

Asian Americans comprise the fastest growing racial or ethnic group in the US. Between 2000 and 2019, their numbers almost doubled, from 11.9 million to 22.2 million. The numbers of people with disabilities within this demographically important population, which are also growing, puts stress on the service delivery sector. This situation indicates a pressing need for research on lived experiences of disabled Asian Americans. A review of the extant literature shows that Asian Americans are underrepresented in the research on disability and/or mental health. This lack of hard data is compounded by the tendency to treat Asian ethnicities as monolithic. The US Census Bureau recognizes more than 20 distinct Asian nationalities, ranging from South Asian Pakistani Americans to Southeast Asian Americans. Aggregating all Asian Americans together in surveys and studies impedes a sophisticated understanding of their unique needs and strengths. From a policy or systems perspective, inadequate data representation in the research literature, including outdated conclusions, is an implicit form of disenfranchisement. This conceptual article examines issues and implications around the lack of systematic attention to diversity within the Asian American population in disability research.
RETRACTED: Analysis of the Legal Framework Governing Gas Flaring in Nigeria’s Upstream Petroleum Sector and the Need for Overhauling
Authors: Olujobi Olusola
Published: July 2020

Nigeria is rated the number one producer of crude oil in Africa. Still, oil exploration activities have resulted in a high rate of gas flaring due to weak enforcement of the anti-gas flaring laws by the regulatory authorities. Associated natural gas is generated from oil production, and it is burnt in large volumes, thereby leading to the emission of greenhouse gases and waste of natural resources which could have generated billions of dollars for the Federal Government of Nigeria. There are concerns that if nothing is done to curtail this menace, humans and the environment will be imperiled due to its negative consequences. There is therefore a need to decrease gas flaring by replicating the strategies applied in the selected case study countries to combat the menace. It is relevant to carry out this analysis to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the oil industry for the sustainability of the energy sector and to generate more revenues for the government. This study provides guidelines for legislatures on suitable approaches to adopt for formulating an anti-flaring legal framework. The study is a comparative analysis of national legal regimes on gas flaring in Nigeria, Canada, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and Norway. The study adopts a doctrinal legal research method, a point-by-point comparative approach with a library-based legal research method. The study finds that weak enforcement of laws is a critical factor responsible for the menace. It recommends the use of more advanced technologies, a sophisticated mixture of regulations and non-regulatory incentives such as fiscal policies and gas market restructuring, and proffers further suggestions based on the lessons learnt from the selected case study countries.
When Space Heating Becomes Digitalized: Investigating Competencies for Controlling Smart Home Technology in the Energy-Efficient Home
Authors: Larsen Simon Peter Aslak Kondrup , Gram-Hanssen Kirsten
Published: July 2020

In the near future, renewable energy sources (RES) will make up an increasing share of energy production in the district heating grid, implying that utilities must enable energy flexibility in order to compensate for the intermittent nature of RES. Current initiatives rely on smart approaches, encouraging a flexible energy demand by integrating various demand-side-management technologies. While praised for their ‘smart’ capabilities, smart home technologies have also been criticized for not meeting their potential in terms of savings and flexibility. This paper examines space-heating practices in everyday life in 16 Danish households. The study relies on qualitative in-depth interviews and ‘show and tell’ tours within these homes. Results show how space-heating practices are reconfigured by embodied knowledge related to respectively space-heating and use of smart technology. This implies that occupants’ adaption to smart home technology is reconfigured by their previous experiences as well as the meanings they ascribed to their practices. By showing the different ways in which occupants ‘get to know’ smart home technology, results highlight forms of embodied knowledge which occupants habitually draw on when they heat their homes. Occupants learn and carry competences for conducting space heating throughout life, and interventions aimed at enabling a flexible energy demand need to consider this. As smart home technology is integrated in homes, interventions should consider embodied knowledge as part of occupants’ competences for controlling smart home technology, as this will impact the reconfiguration of (new) space heating practices.
Strain-Specific Epigenetic Regulation of Endogenous Retroviruses: The Role of Trans-Acting Modifiers
Authors: Elmer Jessica L. , Ferguson-Smith Anne C.
Published: July 2020

Approximately 10 percent of the mouse genome consists of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), relics of ancient retroviral infections that are classified based on their relatedness to exogenous retroviral genera. Because of the ability of ERVs to retrotranspose, as well as their cis-acting regulatory potential due to functional elements located within the elements, mammalian ERVs are generally subject to epigenetic silencing by DNA methylation and repressive histone modifications. The mobilisation and expansion of ERV elements is strain-specific, leading to ERVs being highly polymorphic between inbred mouse strains, hinting at the possibility of the strain-specific regulation of ERVs. In this review, we describe the existing evidence of mouse strain-specific epigenetic control of ERVs and discuss the implications of differential ERV regulation on epigenetic inheritance models. We consider Krüppel-associated box domain (KRAB) zinc finger proteins as likely candidates for strain-specific ERV modifiers, drawing on insights gained from the study of the strain-specific behaviour of transgenes. We conclude by considering the coevolution of KRAB zinc finger proteins and actively transposing ERV elements, and highlight the importance of cross-strain studies in elucidating the mechanisms and consequences of strain-specific ERV regulation.
Upregulation of GLS1 Isoforms KGA and GAC Facilitates Mitochondrial Metabolism and Cell Proliferation in Epstein–Barr Virus Infected Cells
Authors: Krishna Gayathri , Soman Pillai Vinod , Valiya Veettil Mohanan
Published: July 2020

Epstein–Barr virus or human herpesvirus 4 (EBV/HHV-4) is a ubiquitous human virus associated with a wide range of malignant neoplasms. The interaction between EBV latent proteins and host cellular molecules often leads to oncogenic transformation, promoting the development of EBV-associated cancers. The present study identifies a functional role of GLS1 isoforms KGA and GAC in regulating mitochondrial energy metabolism to promote EBV-infected cell proliferation. Our data demonstrate increased expression of GLS1 isoforms KGA and GAC with mitochondrial localization in latently EBV-infected cells and de novo EBV-infected PBMCs. c-Myc upregulates KGA and GAC protein levels, which in turn elevate the levels of intracellular glutamate. Further analysis demonstrated upregulated expression of mitochondrial GLUD1 and GLUD2, with a subsequent increase in alpha-ketoglutarate levels that may mark the activation of glutaminolysis. Cell proliferation and viability of latently EBV-infected cells were notably inhibited by KGA/GAC, as well as GLUD1 inhibitors. Taken together, our results suggest that c-Myc-dependent regulation of KGA and GAC enhances mitochondrial functions to support the rapid proliferation of the EBV-infected cells, and these metabolic processes could be therapeutically exploited by targeting KGA/GAC and GLUD1 to prevent EBV-associated cancers.
Divergent Traits and Ligand-Binding Properties of the Cytomegalovirus CD48 Gene Family
Authors: Martínez-Vicente Pablo , Farré Domènec , Engel Pablo , Angulo Ana
Published: July 2020

The genesis of gene families by the capture of host genes and their subsequent duplication is a crucial process in the evolution of large DNA viruses. CD48 is a cell surface molecule that interacts via its N-terminal immunoglobulin (Ig) domain with the cell surface receptor 2B4 (CD244), regulating leukocyte cytotoxicity. We previously reported the presence of five CD48 homologs (vCD48s) in two related cytomegaloviruses, and demonstrated that one of them, A43, binds 2B4 and acts as a soluble CD48 decoy receptor impairing NK cell function. Here, we have characterized the rest of these vCD48s. We show that they are highly glycosylated proteins that display remarkably distinct features: divergent biochemical properties, cellular locations, and temporal expression kinetics. In contrast to A43, none of them interacts with 2B4. Consistent with this, molecular modeling of the N-terminal Ig domains of these vCD48s evidences notable changes as compared to CD48, suggesting that they interact with alternative targets. Accordingly, we demonstrate that one of them, S30, tightly binds CD2, a crucial T- and NK-cell adhesion and costimulatory molecule. Thus, our findings show how a key host immune receptor gene captured by a virus can be subsequently remodeled to evolve new immunoevasins with altered binding properties.
Elimination of Hepatitis B in Highly Endemic Settings: Lessons Learned in Taiwan and Challenges Ahead
Authors: Liu Chun-Jen , Chen Pei-Jer
Published: July 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its related liver diseases are important health problems worldwide, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. For the past 4–5 decades, Taiwan’s government and scientists have cooperated together to control this virus infection and its related liver diseases. These efforts and achievements have made progress toward the elimination of HBV. Taiwan’s government initiated the Viral Hepatitis Control Program (VHCP) in the1970s, and then launched the national vaccination program in 1984. This universal vaccination program effectively decreased the rate of hepatitis B carriage and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the younger generation. Since 2003, approved anti-HBV treatments were reimbursed nationwide. This reimbursement program resulted in a higher uptake of anti-HBV treatments, which contributed to a decrease in liver-related disease progression and subsequently reduced attributable mortality in Taiwan. This experience can be shared by countries in other parts of the world regarding the control of chronic viral hepatitis B.
Fetal Lymphoid Organ Immune Responses to Transient and Persistent Infection with Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus
Authors: Knapek Katie J. , Georges Hanah M. , Van Campen Hana , Bishop Jeanette V. , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle , Smirnova Natalia P. , Hansen Thomas R.
Published: July 2020

Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) fetal infections occur in two forms; persistent infection (PI) or transient infection (TI), depending on what stage of gestation the fetus is infected. Examination of lymphoid organs from both PI and TI fetuses reveals drastically different fetal responses, dependent upon the developmental stage of the fetal immune system. Total RNA was extracted from the thymuses and spleens of uninfected control, PI, and TI fetuses collected on day 190 of gestation to test the hypothesis that BVDV infection impairs the innate and adaptive immune response in the fetal thymus and spleen of both infection types. Transcripts of genes representing the innate immune response and adaptive immune response genes were assayed by Reverse Transcription quatitative PCR (RT-qPCR) (2−ΔΔCq; fold change). Genes of the innate immune response, interferon (IFN) inducible genes, antigen presentation to lymphocytes, and activation of B cells were downregulated in day 190 fetal PI thymuses compared to controls. In contrast, innate immune response genes were upregulated in TI fetal thymuses compared to controls and tended to be upregulated in TI fetal spleens. Genes associated with the innate immune system were not different in PI fetal spleens; however, adaptive immune system genes were downregulated, indicating that PI fetal BVDV infection has profound inhibitory effects on the expression of genes involved in the innate and adaptive immune response. The downregulation of these genes in lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells in the developing thymus and spleen may explain the incomplete clearance of BVDV and the persistence of the virus in PI animals while the upregulation of the TI innate immune response indicates a more mature immune system, able to clear the virus.
Remaining Lifetime Assessment of Bucket Wheel Excavator’s Boom Structure by Using Non-destructive Method
Authors: András József , Kovács József , András Endre , Kertész Ildikó , Tomuș Ovidiu Bogdan
Published: July 2020

The bucket wheel excavators (BWE), when operating in faces with hard intrusions (rock structures with increased cutting resistance) are submitted to loads exceeding those arising during the operation in normal conditions. The most vulnerable structural element of the BWE from the point of view of these loads is the boom. The unexpected occurrence of hard formations produces shocks and vibrations, their unwanted effect being sudden failures of the constitutive elements and, in long term, fatigue, which increases the vulnerability of the mentioned structural element. In the paper we present the results obtained regarding the fatigue and remaining lifetime assessment using a new method, issued from the researches performed in the frame of BEWEXMIN project.
THEORIES OF THE MISSIONARY VOCATION OF THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION IN POST-SOVIET PROTESTANTISM
Authors: Syniy Valentyn
Published: July 2020

It is emphasized that the involvement of missionary theology in the discussion of ways to develop spiritual education allowed post-soviet Protestantism to successfully overcome differences in the vision of the formal construction of education, and then move on to discussions about its content. There was a gradual overcoming of modern individualism, the growing role of communities, the replacement of monologue models of mission with dialogical ones. The idea of the seminary as a community that is not self-sufficient, but serves the church as a community, has gained general recognition. The church also came to be understood as serving an eschatological ideal community similar to the Trinity community. The formation of community and dialogical models of missionary and educational activity allows Ukrainian Protestantism to effectively adapt to the realities of the beginning of the 21st century and to be proactive in today's society.