bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orthodontic Management of Supernumerary Tooth - a case report
Authors: Paul Kajal Chandra , Hossain Md Zakir
Published: February 2018

A 27 years old male presented with Class-II div 1 malocclusion with a mesodense. Treatment involved extraction of mesiodense. The alignment of teeth of both arch was achieved by edgewise orthodontic therapy.Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, April 2015; Vol-5 (1-2), P.27-29
3rd International Orthodontic Conference of ODOAN (Nepal), Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, Sept. 21-22, 2013
Authors: Hossain MZ
Published: February 2018

Abstract not availableBan J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, April 2015; Vol-5 (1-2), P.37-39
Medicinal plants with wound healing potential
Authors: Firdous Sayeed Mohammed , Sautya Dippayan
Published: February 2018

Wound occurs due to disruption of soft tissues that results from injury. Recently many medicinal plants have been demonstrated for wound healing potential through in vivo and in vitro preclinical models and their mechanisms of wound healing has also been reported. Medicinal plants have been reported to show wound healing potential via angiogenesis, activation of NF-κB, favoring pro-inflammatory cytokines, increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and alpha 1 type 1 collagen, and anti-oxidant activity. Thus, in this review, an attempt was made to give an insight into the recently reported medicinal plants with wound healing mechanisms which could be beneficial in therapeutic practice and development of new wound healing drugs for human use.
Potential role of medicinal plants for anti-atherosclerosis activity
Authors: Qadir Muhammad Imran , Manzoor Ayesha , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid
Published: February 2018

Atherosclerosis may lead to the death of a number of people. In case of atherosclerosis, stiffness of arteries of the heart is caused by the excess deposition of lipids in the coronary arteries. The mentioned condition produces atherosclerotic plaques. When these plaques are burst then clots of blood are formed that cause coronary issues. To overcome this severe disease, extracts of many medicinal plants or spices like garlic, ginger and onion, and many others that are mentioned in this review are used to treat atherosclerosis.
Oviposition preference and development of rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (Lin.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in different stored grains
Authors: Akhter Masuma , Sultana Shanjida , Sultana Shanjida , Akter Tangin , Akter Tangin , Begum Shefali , Begum Shefali
Published: February 2018

Oviposition preference and development of rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) were observed in three varieties of stored grains i.e. parboiled rice (Oryza sativa), wheat (Triticum aestivum) and pulse (Cicer arietinum). In no choice tests, the mean number of eggs laid were 360.3 ±2.60 in rice, 382 ±2.49 in wheat and 394± 2.06 in pulse. In case of choice tests, the mean number of eggs laid were 13.6±0.4 in rice, 14.2 ±0.37 in wheat and 15.6 ±0.4 in pulse. The differences between the number of eggs laid in rice, wheat and pulse varied significantly in both no-choice and choice tests. The respective incubation period, larval and pupal period of the weevil reared on rice, wheat and pulse were 5.7 ±0.27, 5 ±0.47 and 5.4 ±0.27 days, respectively, 21 ±0.47, 20.3 ± 0.27, 19 ±0.47 days, respectively and 10.3 ±0.27, 10.7 ±0.27, 11.3 ±0.27 days, respectively. The total development time from egg to adult recorded in rice, wheat and pulse was 37 ±0.47, 36 ±0.47 and 35.6 ±0.72 days, respectively. The difference between the larval periods was significant (p < 0.05) when they reared in wheat and pulse. The larval and pupal period varied significantly (p < 0.05) between the individuals reared in rice and pulse. The developmental period was shorter in pulse than in rice and wheat.Bangladesh J. Zool. 45(2): 131-138, 2017
Manholes as an important breeding sites for Culex mosquitoes in Gazipur City Corporation, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman GM Saifur
Published: February 2018

A longitudinal study in under constructing Manholes (considered as mosquito breeding trap of the study area) in a newly constructing road in the ward number 35 was conducted in the post monsoon period of 2016. Four species of mosquito population were available in the stagnant water of temporary breeding sites. Among them Cx. quinquefasciatus was the dominant species (98.6%) followed by Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (0.5%), Ar. subalbatus (0.5%) and Cx. fuscocephala (0.4%). Though the breeding sites were temporary and stayed until finishing the construction, yet the results indicated the abundant population of available mosquitoes including status of key species in the urban area of the city corporation.Bangladesh J. Zool. 45(2): 139-148, 2017
Comparison of saline, iodine and koh wet mount preparations for occurrence of parasites in stool samples from patients attending ICDDR,B
Authors: Zaman Rimi Farhana , Khanum Hamida , Nargis Shakila , Das Ponkoj Kumar
Published: February 2018

The purpose of the present study was to compare results of saline, iodine, and KOH wet mount preparations executed on each of 1116 stool samples from patients attending ICDDR,B clinical pathology laboratory was compared. Ascaris lumbricoides was most prevalent helminth (3.67%) found in KOH wet mount preparation. The protozoan parasites (9.59%) were more prevalent than helmiths (8.24%) and Giardia sp (4.03%) shows the higher infection found by KOH wet mount preparation. Females are more infected by parasites than males found in observations by all the three methods (saline, iodine and KOH wet mount preparation). It was also observed that the young (1- 10 years) were more infected than older age group (above 51). In seasonal variation, parasitic infestation was higher during May (27%) and the prevalence was lower in December (10%). KOH was found to be effective in destroying the faecal debris, faecal mass and other artifacts without affecting many of the parasitic ova, cysts and larvae in the stool smears. KOH for wet mount smear in examining the stool samples for detection of intestinal helminths may be routinely used which is simple, cost-effective and could be afforded in resource poor setting.Bangladesh J. Zool. 45(2): 159-170, 2017
Bacterial biofilm: A novel antigen for oral vaccination of fish
Authors: Mamun Md Abdullah Al , Nasren Shamima , Rathore Sanjay Singh , Rakesh K , Pai Manjulesh , Poojary Sathish Rama
Published: February 2018

Abstract not availableBangladesh J. Zool. 45(2): 189-192, 2017
Intelligent Video Surveillance Platform for Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks
Authors: Abbas Nasim , Yu Fengqi , Fan Yang
Published: February 2018

Wireless multimedia sensor networks (WMSNs) are increasingly being deployed for surveillance and monitoring applications. WMSNs applications produce large amount of data, which require high transmission rates. An efficient and seamless delivery of multimedia services in WMSNs is still a challenging task. This article proposes an intelligent video surveillance platform (IVSP) for wireless multimedia sensor networks. IVSP presents the design of a networked system for joint rate control and error control of video over resource-constrained embedded devices. First, a combination of two different congestion indicators is introduced to differentiate between congestion levels and handle them accordingly. Second, a feedback-based rate controller is developed to maximize received video quality, in which sensor nodes can adaptively adjust their sending rates. Finally, a different retransmission mechanism for different packets is proposed. Lost packets can be stored temporarily and resend when free channel is available to avoid congestion. The core component of IVSP is an open source hardware platform, which is based on Raspberry Pi sensor nodes. IVSP is extensively evaluated on 7 Raspberry Pi sensor nodes. We present the results of 7-node real-world deployment of IVSP in a video surveillance application and show that it works well in long-term deployments.
A Vector Printing Method for High-Speed Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) Jet Printing Based on Encoder Position Sensors
Authors: Phung Thanh , Nguyen Luu , Kwon Kye-Si
Published: February 2018

Electrohyrodynamic (EHD) jet printing has been widely used in the field of direct micro-nano patterning applications, due to its high resolution printing capability. So far, vector line printing using a single nozzle has been widely used for most EHD printing applications. However, the application has been limited to low-speed printing, to avoid non-uniform line width near the end points where line printing starts and ends. At end points of line vector printing, the deposited drop amount is likely to be significantly large compared to the rest of the printed lines, due to unavoidable acceleration and deceleration. In this study, we proposed a method to solve the printing quality problems by producing droplets at an equally spaced distance, irrespective of the printing speed. For this purpose, an encoder processing unit (EPU) was developed, so that the jetting trigger could be generated according to user-defined spacing by using encoder position signals, which are used for the positioning control of the two linear stages.
A Real-Time Thermal Self-Elimination Method for Static Mode Operated Freestanding Piezoresistive Microcantilever-Based Biosensors
Authors: Ku Yu-Fu , Huang Long-Sun , Yen Yi-Kuang
Published: February 2018

Here, we provide a method and apparatus for real-time compensation of the thermal effect of single free-standing piezoresistive microcantilever-based biosensors. The sensor chip contained an on-chip fixed piezoresistor that served as a temperature sensor, and a multilayer microcantilever with an embedded piezoresistor served as a biomolecular sensor. This method employed the calibrated relationship between the resistance and the temperature of piezoresistors to eliminate the thermal effect on the sensor, including the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) and bimorph effect. From experimental results, the method was verified to reduce the signal of thermal effect from 25.6 μV/°C to 0.3 μV/°C, which was approximately two orders of magnitude less than that before the processing of the thermal elimination method. Furthermore, the proposed approach and system successfully demonstrated its effective real-time thermal self-elimination on biomolecular detection without any thermostat device to control the environmental temperature. This method realizes the miniaturization of an overall measurement system of the sensor, which can be used to develop portable medical devices and microarray analysis platforms.
Enhanced Low Temperature NO Reduction Performance via MnOx-Fe2O3/Vermiculite Monolithic Honeycomb Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Ke , Yu Feng , Zhu Mingyuan , Dan Jianming , Wang Xugen , Zhang Jinli , Dai Bin
Published: February 2018

Selective catalytic reduction of NOx by ammonia (NH3-SCR) was the most efficient and economic technology for De-NOx applications. Therefore, a series of MnOx/vermiculite (VMT) and MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT catalysts were prepared by an impregnation method for the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT catalysts provided an excellent NO conversion of 96.5% at 200 °C with a gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 30,000 h−1 and an NO concentration of 500 ppm. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results indicated that the Mn and Fe oxides of the MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT catalyst were mainly composed of MnO2 and Fe2O3. However, the MnO2 and Fe2O3 components were well dispersed because no discernible MnO2 and Fe2O3 phases were observed in X-ray powder diffraction spectra. Corresponding MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT monolithic honeycomb catalysts (MHCs) were prepared by an extrusion method, and the MHCs achieved excellent SCR activity at low temperature, with an NO conversion greater than 98.6% at 150 °C and a GHSV of 4000 h−1. In particular, the MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT MHCs provided a good SCR activity at room temperature (20 °C), with an NO conversion of 62.2% (GHSV = 1000 h−1). In addition, the NO reduction performance of the MnOx-Fe2O3/VMT MHCs also demonstrated an excellent SO2 resistance.
Microbiology in Dairy Processing: Challenges and Opportunities. By Palmiro Poltronieri. IFT Press Series, Wiley-Blackwell, UK, 2017; 321 pp.; ISBN: 978-1-119-11480-2
Authors: Rossi Franca
Published: February 2018

In this context, an overview is presented of the book “Microbiology in dairy processing; challenges and opportunities” [...]
Review of Polynomial Chaos-Based Methods for Uncertainty Quantification in Modern Integrated Circuits
Authors: Kaintura Arun , Dhaene Tom , Spina Domenico
Published: February 2018

Advances in manufacturing process technology are key ensembles for the production of integrated circuits in the sub-micrometer region. It is of paramount importance to assess the effects of tolerances in the manufacturing process on the performance of modern integrated circuits. The polynomial chaos expansion has emerged as a suitable alternative to standard Monte Carlo-based methods that are accurate, but computationally cumbersome. This paper provides an overview of the most recent developments and challenges in the application of polynomial chaos-based techniques for uncertainty quantification in integrated circuits, with particular focus on high-dimensional problems.
Modeling the Insulation Paper Drying Process from Thermogravimetric Analyses
Authors: Betie Amidou , Meghnefi Fethi , Fofana Issouf , Yeo Zie
Published: February 2018

It is now well-established that moisture in the oil paper insulation used in power and instrument transformers significantly reduces the transformers’ lifetimes, and can eventually lead to premature failure. This moisture should, therefore, always be removed, not only during production but also after repairs. At the final stage of manufacturing, the drying process should be carried out to remove water and air vacuoles contained in the cellulose-based paper before impregnation. Successful drying helps increase the residual life of transformers, because the presence of moisture and air vacuoles accelerates the aging/degradation process of the oil paper insulation. Proper estimation of residual moisture before impregnation and the determination of the time required for drying play key roles in the time-consuming process of drying. In this paper, the disadvantages of inadequate drying are addressed, followed by a mathematical approach to model the paper drying process. A mathematical model describing the kinetics of drying according to temperature, initial moisture, paper weight, final moisture, and extraction rate is proposed. This model also estimated the amount of moisture removed at the end of the drying process.
Design of a Novel Voltage Controller for Conversion of Carbon Dioxide into Clean Fuels Using the Integration of a Vanadium Redox Battery with Solar Energy
Authors: Ou Ting-Chia
Published: February 2018

This letter presents a design for a novel voltage controller (NVC) which can exhibit three different reactions using the integration of a vanadium redox battery (VRB) with solar energy, and uses only electrochemical potentials with optimal external bias voltage control to carry out hydrogen production and the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into methane and methanol. This NVC is simply constructed by using dynamic switch and control strategies with a time-variant control system. In this design, the interval voltage bias solutions obtained by the proposed NVC exhibit better voltage ranges and good agreement with the practical scenarios, which will bring significant benefits to operation for continuous reduction of CO2 into value-added clean fuels using the integration of a VRB with solar energy or any other renewable energy resource for future applications.
Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer for Logistic Robots
Authors: Tampubolon Marojahan , Pamungkas Laskar , Chiu Huang-Jen , Liu Yu-Chen , Hsieh Yao-Ching
Published: February 2018

The prospect of using robots in warehouses or supply chain processes is increasing due to the growth of the online retail market. This logistic robot is available in the market and uses a battery as energy storage device. However, this battery is large and heavy. Therefore, it needs a long recharging time. Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer (DWPT) can be an alternative to the conventional charging system because of its safety and flexibility that enables in motion charging. DWPT reduces the battery requirement size and capacity. Hence the stored energy can be used effectively for load transportation. A compensation with an inductor and two capacitors in the transmitter side, and a series connected capacitor in the receiver side which is named LCC-S compensation type has the capability to maintain the transmitter current with a fixed frequency operation. It provides less variation of the output voltage in response to the load variation. Moreover, the compensation of the receiver side uses only a single series capacitor which is low-cost. The analysis, modeling, and design procedures are discussed in this paper as well as the hardware implementation and verification of a 1.5 kW maximum power DWPT. The experiment shows the capability of the proposed system and shows maximum efficiency can reach 91.02%.
Blockchain with Artificial Intelligence to Efficiently Manage Water Use under Climate Change
Authors: Lin Yu-Pin , Petway Joy , Lien Wan-Yu , Settele Josef
Published: February 2018

Assessments may underestimate the annual global water scarcity, driven by seasonal water availability and consumption distribution heterogeneity[...]
Numerical Study of Focusing Effects of Microwaves inside Wood Due to Timber Ring Structure
Authors: Sanchez-Montero Rocio , Lopez-Espi Pablo-Luis , Martinez-Rojas Juan , Alpuente-Hermosilla Jesus , Alen-Cordero Cristina
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study is the detailed calculation of microwave propagation inside raw timber in cylindrical configurations. Two different approaches have been used. The first one uses an exact formulation and analytical approximations in order to explore the electromagnetic field distribution inside dry wood. The introduction of conductivity in the exact model makes it so complex that the equations are unsuitable for analytical manipulation. In order to further explore the effect of moisture in cylindrical wood structures, a full scale numerical simulation using commercial software has been performed. The results show that for microwave frequencies in the 3 GHz range and for typical wood parameters, a cylindrical log behaves as a kind of Fresnel lens. This work has important applications in microwave treatment and sensing of wood.
Drought Effects on Photosynthesis and Implications of Photoassimilate Distribution in 11C-Labeled Leaves in the African Tropical Tree Species Maesopsis eminii Engl.
Authors: Epila Jackie , Hubeau Michiel , Steppe Kathy
Published: February 2018

Photoassimilate distribution inside leaves is less studied than photosynthesis, and yet the topic is important as it gives insights into the vital roles played by leaves in plant survival. We combined greenhouse measurements of light response curves with 11C-labelling using leaves of 3-year-old potted Maesopsis eminii Engl. trees to improve our understanding of its leaf carbon physiology. This fast-growing pioneer tree species showed low photosynthetic rates for a common tropical pioneer during well-watered reference conditions (5.0 ± 0.7 µmol m−2 s−1), which further decreased in response to drought. 11C-autoradiography indicated active phloem loading and/or rapid phloem transport rates. Active loading is uncommon in tree species, but might be related to deciduousness traits and continuous investment in growth, like in herbaceous active loaders. Active loading involves higher carbon allocation to growth, which might explain why low photosynthetic rates were observed in this fast-growing species. These findings suggest that examining photoassimilate distribution and transport may be critical for understanding the role tree physiology plays in terrestrial carbon cycling.
Effect of Wind on the Relation of Leaf N, P Stoichiometry with Leaf Morphology in Quercus Species
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wang Hua , Wu Qianting , Yu Mukui , Wu Tonggui
Published: February 2018

Leaf nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometry correlates closely to leaf morphology, which is strongly impacted by wind at multiple scales. However, it is not clear how leaf N, P stoichiometry and its relationship to leaf morphology changes with wind load. We determined the leaf N and P concentrations and leaf morphology—including specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf dissection index (LDI)—for eight Quercus species under a simulated wind load for seven months. Leaf N and P concentrations increased significantly under these conditions for Quercus acutissima, Quercus rubra, Quercus texana, and Quercus palustris—which have elliptic leaves—due to their higher N, P requirements and a resultant leaf biomass decrease, which is a tolerance strategy for Quercus species under a wind load. Leaf N:P was relatively stable under wind for all species, which supports stoichiometric homeostasis. Leaf N concentrations showed a positive correlation to SLA, leaf N and P concentrations showed positive correlations to LDI under each wind treatment, and the slope of correlations was not affected by wind, which indicates synchronous variations between leaf stoichiometry and leaf morphology under wind. However, the intercept of correlations was affected by wind, and leaf N and P use efficiency decreased under the wind load, which suggests that the Quercus species changes from “fast investment-return” in the control to “slow investment-return” under windy conditions. These results will be valuable to understanding functional strategies for plants under varying wind loads, especially synchronous variations in leaf traits along a wind gradient.
When Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Work Hand in Hand: A Case Study Characterizing Plant CDF Transcription Factors
Authors: Pérez-Alonso Marta-Marina , Carrasco-Loba Víctor , Medina Joaquín , Vicente-Carbajosa Jesús , Pollmann Stephan
Published: February 2018

Over the last three decades, novel “omics” platform technologies for the sequencing of DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) (RNA-Seq), as well as for the analysis of proteins and metabolites by mass spectrometry, have become more and more available and increasingly found their way into general laboratory life. With this, the ability to generate highly multivariate datasets on the biological systems of choice has increased tremendously. However, the processing and, perhaps even more importantly, the integration of “omics” datasets still remains a bottleneck, although considerable computational and algorithmic advances have been made in recent years. In this mini-review, we use a number of recent “multi-omics” approaches realized in our laboratories as a common theme to discuss possible pitfalls of applying “omics” approaches and to highlight some useful tools for data integration and visualization in the form of an exemplified case study. In the selected example, we used a combination of transcriptomics and metabolomics alongside phenotypic analyses to functionally characterize a small number of Cycling Dof Transcription Factors (CDFs). It has to be remarked that, even though this approach is broadly used, the given workflow is only one of plenty possible ways to characterize target proteins.
The National and Regional Prevalence Rates of Disability, Type, of Disability and Severity in Saudi Arabia—Analysis of 2016 Demographic Survey Data
Authors: Bindawas Saad , Vennu Vishal
Published: February 2018

The prevalence of disability varies between countries ranging from less than 1% to up to 30% in some countries, thus, the estimated global disability prevalence is about 15%. However, it is unknown what the current estimate of disability and its types and severity are in Saudi Arabia. Thus, the objective of this study is to estimate national and regional prevalence rates of any disability, types of disability, and their severity among Saudi populations. Data on disability status were extracted from the national demographic survey conducted in 2016 as reported by the General Authority for Statistics, Saudi Arabia (N = 20,064,970). Prevalence rates per a population of 100,000 of any disability, type of disability, and its severity were calculated at the national level and in all 13 regions. Out of 20,064,970 Saudi citizens surveyed, 667,280 citizens reported disabilities, accounting for a prevalence rate of 3326 per a population of 100,000 (3.3%). Individuals aged 60 years and above (11,014) and males (3818) had a higher prevalence rate of disability compared with females (2813). The Tabuk region has the highest rate of reported disability, at 4.3%. The prevalence rates of extreme disabilities in mobility and sight were higher in Madinah (57,343) and Northern border (41,236) regions, respectively. In Saudi Arabia, more than half a million Saudi citizens (1 out of every 30 individuals) reported the presence of disability during the year 2016. A higher prevalence rate of disability was seen among those aged 60 years and above, and males. Targeted efforts are required at the national and regional levels to expand and improve rehabilitation and social services for all people with disabilities.
Experimental and Numerical Modeling of Aerosol Delivery for Preterm Infants
Authors: Aramendia Iñigo , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai , Lopez-Arraiza Alberto , Rey-Santano Carmen , Mielgo Victoria , Basterretxea Francisco , Sancho Javier , Gomez-Solaetxe Miguel
Published: February 2018

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) represents one of the major causes of mortality among preterm infants, and the best approach to treat it is an open research issue. The use of perfluorocarbons (PFC) along with non-invasive respiratory support techniques has proven the usefulness of PFC as a complementary substance to achieve a more homogeneous surfactant distribution. The aim of this work was to study the inhaled particles generated by means of an intracorporeal inhalation catheter, evaluating the size and mass distribution of different PFC aerosols. In this article, we discuss different experiments with the PFC perfluorodecalin (PFD) and FC75 with a driving pressure of 4–5 bar, evaluating properties such as the aerodynamic diameter (Da), since its value is directly linked to particle deposition in the lung. Furthermore, we develop a numerical model with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques. The computational results showed an accurate prediction of the airflow axial velocity at different downstream positions when compared with the data gathered from the real experiments. The numerical validation of the cumulative mass distribution for PFD particles also confirmed a closer match with the experimental data measured at the optimal distance of 60 mm from the catheter tip. In the case of FC75, the cumulative mass fraction for particles above 10 µm was considerable higher with a driving pressure of 5 bar. These numerical models could be a helpful tool to assist parametric studies of new non-invasive devices for the treatment of RDS in preterm infants.
2A-DUB/Mysm1 Regulates Epidermal Development in Part by Suppressing p53-Mediated Programs
Authors: Wilms Christina , Krikki Ioanna , Hainzl Adelheid , Kilo Sonja , Alupei Marius , Makrantonaki Evgenia , Wagner Maximilian , Kroeger Carsten , Brinker Titus , Gatzka Martina
Published: February 2018

Development and homeostasis of the epidermis are governed by a complex network of sequence-specific transcription factors and epigenetic modifiers cooperatively regulating the subtle balance of progenitor cell self-renewal and terminal differentiation. To investigate the role of histone H2A deubiquitinase 2A-DUB/Mysm1 in the skin, we systematically analyzed expression, developmental functions, and potential interactions of this epigenetic regulator using Mysm1-deficient mice and skin-derived epidermal cells. Morphologically, skin of newborn and young adult Mysm1-deficient mice was atrophic with reduced thickness and cellularity of epidermis, dermis, and subcutis, in context with altered barrier function. Skin atrophy correlated with reduced proliferation rates in Mysm1−/− epidermis and hair follicles, and increased apoptosis compared with wild-type controls, along with increases in DNA-damage marker γH2AX. In accordance with diminished α6-Integrinhigh+CD34+ epidermal stem cells, reduced colony formation of Mysm1−/− epidermal progenitors was detectable in vitro. On the molecular level, we identified p53 as potential mediator of the defective Mysm1-deficient epidermal compartment, resulting in increased pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative gene expression. In Mysm1−/−p53−/− double-deficient mice, significant recovery of skin atrophy was observed. Functional properties of Mysm1−/− developing epidermis were assessed by quantifying the transepidermal water loss. In summary, this investigation uncovers a role for 2A-DUB/Mysm1 in suppression of p53-mediated inhibitory programs during epidermal development.
Ion Channel Disorders and Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Garcia-Elias Anna , Benito Begoña
Published: February 2018

Long QT syndrome, short QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia are inherited primary electrical disorders that predispose to sudden cardiac death in the absence of structural heart disease. Also known as cardiac channelopathies, primary electrical disorders respond to mutations in genes encoding cardiac ion channels and/or their regulatory proteins, which result in modifications in the cardiac action potential or in the intracellular calcium handling that lead to electrical instability and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. These disorders may have low penetrance and expressivity, making clinical diagnosis often challenging. However, because sudden cardiac death might be the first presenting symptom of the disease, early diagnosis becomes essential. Genetic testing might be helpful in this regard, providing a definite diagnosis in some patients. Yet important limitations still exist, with a significant proportion of patients remaining with no causative mutation identifiable after genetic testing. This review aims to provide the latest knowledge on the genetic basis of cardiac channelopathies and discuss the role of the affected proteins in the pathophysiology of each one of these diseases.
Summary of the Special Issue “Neutrosophic Information Theory and Applications” at “Information” Journal
Authors: Smarandache Florentin , Ye Jun
Published: February 2018

Over a period of seven months (August 2017–February 2018), the Special Issue dedicated to “Neutrosophic Information Theory and Applications” by the “Information” journal (ISSN 2078-2489), located in Basel, Switzerland, was a success. The Guest Editors, Prof. Dr. Florentin Smarandache from the University of New Mexico (USA) and Prof. Dr. Jun Ye from the Shaoxing University (China), were happy to select—helped by a team of neutrosophic reviewers from around the world, and by the “Information” journal editors themselves—and publish twelve important neutrosophic papers, authored by 27 authors and coauthors. There were a variety of neutrosophic topics studied and used by the authors and coauthors in Multi-Criteria (or Multi-Attribute and/or Group) Decision-Making, including Cross Entropy-Based MAGDM, Neutrosophic Hesitant Fuzzy Prioritized Aggregation Operators, Biparametric Distance Measures, Pattern Recognition and Medical Diagnosis, Intuitionistic Neutrosophic Graph, NC-TODIM-Based MAGDM, Neutrosophic Cubic Set, VIKOR Method, Neutrosophic Multiple Attribute Group Decision-Making, Competition Graphs, Intuitionistic Neutrosophic Environment, Neutrosophic Commutative N-Ideals, Neutrosophic N-Structures Applied to BCK/BCI-Algebras, Neutrosophic Similarity Score, Weighted Histogram, Robust Mean-Shift Tracking, and Linguistic Neutrosophic Cubic Numbers.
Dynamic Tissue Rearrangements during Vertebrate Eye Morphogenesis: Insights from Fish Models
Authors: Cavodeassi Florencia
Published: February 2018

Over the last thirty years, fish models, such as the zebrafish and medaka, have become essential to pursue developmental studies and model human disease. Community efforts have led to the generation of wide collections of mutants, a complete sequence of their genomes, and the development of sophisticated genetic tools, enabling the manipulation of gene activity and labelling and tracking of specific groups of cells during embryonic development. When combined with the accessibility and optical clarity of fish embryos, these approaches have made of them an unbeatable model to monitor developmental processes in vivo and in real time. Over the last few years, live-imaging studies in fish have provided fascinating insights into tissue morphogenesis and organogenesis. This review will illustrate the advantages of fish models to pursue morphogenetic studies by highlighting the findings that, in the last decade, have transformed our understanding of eye morphogenesis.
Mapping the Galvanic Corrosion of Three Metals Coupled with a Wire Beam Electrode: The Influence of Temperature and Relative Geometrical Position
Authors: Ju Hong , Yang Yuan-Feng , Liu Yun-Fei , Liu Shu-Fa , Duan Jin-Zhuo , Li Yan
Published: February 2018

The local electrochemical properties of galvanic corrosion for three coupled metals in a desalination plant were investigated with three wire-beam electrodes as wire sensors: aluminum brass (HAl77-2), titanium (TA2), and 316L stainless steel (316L SS). These electrodes were used with artificial seawater at different temperatures. The potential and current–density distributions of the three-metal coupled system are inhomogeneous. The HAl77-2 wire anodes were corroded in the three-metal coupled system. The TA2 wires acted as cathodes and were protected; the 316L SS wires acted as secondary cathodes. The temperature and electrode arrangement have important effects on the galvanic corrosion of the three-metal coupled system. The corrosion current of the HAl77-2 increased with temperature indicating enhanced anode corrosion at higher temperature. In addition, the corrosion of HAl77-2 was more significant when the HAl77-2 wires were located in the middle of the coupled system than with the other two metal arrangement styles.
Rough Titanium Oxide Coating Prepared by Micro-Arc Oxidation Causes Down-Regulation of hTERT Expression, Molecular Presentation, and Cytokine Secretion in Tumor Jurkat T Cells
Authors: Khlusov Igor , Litvinova Larisa , Shupletsova Valeria , Khaziakhmatova Olga , Melashchenko Elena , Yurova Kristina , Leitsin Vladimir , Khlusova Marina , Pichugin Vladimir , Sharkeev Yurii
Published: February 2018

The response of the human Jurkat T cell leukemia-derived cell line (Jurkat T cells) after 24 h of in vitro exposure to a titanium substrate (12 × 12 × 1 mm3) with a bilateral rough (Ra = 2.2–3.7 μm) titanium oxide coating (rTOC) applied using the micro-arc method in a 20% orthophosphoric acid solution was studied. A 1.5-fold down-regulation of hTERT mRNA expression and decreases in CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD95 presentation and IL-4 and TNFα secretion were observed. Jurkat T cell inactivation was not correlated with the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and was not mediated by TiO2 nanoparticles with a diameter of 14 ± 8 nm at doses of 1 mg/L or 10 mg/L. The inhibitory effect of the rTOC (Ra = 2.2–3.7 μm) on the survival of Jurkat T cells (Spearman’s coefficient rs = −0.95; n = 9; p < 0.0001) was demonstrated by an increase in the necrotic cell count among the cell population. In turn, an elevation of the Ra index of the rTOC was accompanied by a linear increase (r = 0.6; p < 0.000001, n = 60) in the magnitude of the negative electrostatic potential of the titanium oxide surface. Thus, the roughness of the rTOC induces an electrostatic potential and decreases the viability of the immortalized Jurkat T cells through mechanisms unrelated to ROS generation. This may be useful for replacement surgery applications of rough TiO2 implants in cancer patients.
Designing a New Ni-Mn-Sn Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloy with Excellent Performance by Cu Addition
Authors: Zhang Kun , Tian Xiaohua , Tan Changlong , Guo Erjun , Zhao Wenbin , Cai Wei
Published: February 2018

Both magnetic-field-induced reverse martensitic transformation (MFIRMT) and a high working temperature are crucial for the application of Ni-Mn-Sn magnetic shape memory alloys. Here, by first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that the substitution of Cu for Sn is effective not only in enhancing the MFIRMT but also in increasing martensitic transformation, which is advantageous for its application. Large magnetization difference (ΔM) in Ni-Mn-Sn alloy is achieved by Cu doping, which arises from the enhancement of magnetization of austenite due to the change of Mn-Mn interaction from anti-ferromagnetism to ferromagnetism. This directly leads to the enhancement of MFIRMT. Meanwhile, the martensitic transformation shifts to higher temperature, owing to the energy difference between the austenite L21 structure and the tetragonal martensite L10 structure increases by Cu doping. The results provide the theoretical data and the direction for developing a high temperature magnetic-field-induced shape memory alloy with large ΔM in the Ni-Mn-Sn Heusler alloy system.
Experimental Research on Fluid Coupling Flexible Actuator
Authors: Zeng Xiangli , Wu Yue , Tu Qianjin , Dong Jingshi , Yang Zhigang , Li Xinbo
Published: February 2018

In the field of micromechanics, piezoelectric actuator has attracted great attention for its high-frequency response, high displacement resolution, and high output force. However, its prospect of practical application has been largely limited by the displacement of micrometer. A fluid coupling flexible actuator was proposed, which utilizes resonance to enlarge the output displacement. The actuator uses a piezoelectric oscillator as an excitation source, fluid as the transmission medium and a flexible diaphragm for the displacement output. On the condition that the fluid is inviscid and incompressible, mathematical formulation of the membrane vibration theory has been analyzed. Then, the prototype is made. The displacement is amplified 21 times to 1.106 mm when driving frequency is 127 Hz. The flexible diaphragm appears the largest displacement output when driving frequency is close to one of the system’s natural frequency. Then, the points with zero amplitude form a circle on the surface of flexible diaphragm and the movement direction of the flexible diaphragm is opposite on different sides of the circle. In fact, rather than vibrates at the first resonance frequency, the membrane in the essay is vibrating at a certain higher-order resonance frequency. The experimental results are mainly consistent with the theoretical analysis.
Tolerance to Stress Combination in Tomato Plants: New Insights in the Protective Role of Melatonin
Authors: Martinez Vicente , Nieves-Cordones Manuel , Lopez-Delacalle Maria , Rodenas Reyes , Mestre Teresa , Garcia-Sanchez Francisco , Rubio Francisco , Nortes Pedro , Mittler Ron , Rivero Rosa
Published: February 2018

Abiotic stresses such as drought, heat or salinity are major causes of yield loss worldwide. Recent studies have revealed that the acclimation of plants to a combination of different environmental stresses is unique and therefore cannot be directly deduced from studying the response of plants to each of the different stresses applied individually. The efficient detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is thought to play a key role in enhancing the tolerance of plants to abiotic stresses. Here, we report on the role of melatonin in the protection of the photosynthetic apparatus through the increase in ROS detoxification in tomato plants grown under the combination of salinity and heat, two of the most common abiotic stresses known to act jointly. Plants treated with exogenous melatonin showed a different modulation in the expression on some antioxidant-related genes and their related enzymes. More specifically, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (APX, GR, GPX and Ph-GPX, resepctively) showed an antagonistic regulation as compared to plants that did not receive melatonin. This translated into a better antioxidant capacity and to a lesser ROS accumulation under stress combination. The performance of the photosynthesis parameters and the photosystems was also increased in plants treated with exogenous melatonin under the combination of salinity and heat. In accordance with these findings, tomato plants treated with melatonin were found to grow better under stress combination that the non-treated ones. Our study highlights the important role that exogenous melatonin plays in the acclimation of plants to a combination of two different abiotic stresses, and how this compound can specifically regulate oxidative stress-related genes and enzymes to increase plant tolerance.
Epoxidation of Carbon Nanocapsules: Decoration of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Filled with Metal Halides
Authors: D’Accolti Lucia , Gajewska Agnieszka , Kierkowicz Magdalena , Martincic Markus , Nacci Angelo , Sandoval Stefania , Ballesteros Belén , Tobias Gerard , Da Ros Tatiana , Fusco Caterina
Published: February 2018

Methyl(trifluoromethyl)dioxirane (TFDO) can be used for the oxyfunctionalization of SWCNTs filled with NaI and LuCl3 under mild conditions. The chosen metal halides are of interest for theranostics, both for imaging and therapy when in their radioactive form. The applied functionalization methodology does not require metal catalyst, preserves the integrity of the nanotubes during treatment, avoiding the release of the filling material. In this way, epoxidation can be considered as an efficient methodology for the functionalization of carbon nanocapsules, where the traditional harsh oxidation conditions by acids are not applicable.
The Mixing Counterion Effect on DNA Compaction and Charge Neutralization at Low Ionic Strength
Authors: Wang Yanwei , Wang Ruxia , Gao Tianyong , Yang Guangcan
Published: February 2018

DNA compaction and charge neutralization in a mixing counterion solution involves competitive and cooperative electrostatic binding, and sometimes counterion complexation. At normal ionic strength, it has been found that the charge neutralization of DNA by the multivalent counterion is suppressed when being added extra mono- and di-valent counterions. Here, we explore the effect mixing counterion on DNA compaction and charge neutralization under the condition of low ionic strength. Being quite different from normal ionic strength, the electrophoretic mobility of DNA in multivalent counterion solution (octalysine, spermine) increases the presence of mono- and di-valent cations, such as sodium and magnesium ions. It means that the charge neutralization of DNA by the multivalent counterion is promoted rather than suppressed when introducing extra mono- and di-valent counterions into solution. This conclusion is also supported by the measurement of condensing and unraveling forces of DNA condensates under the same condition by single molecular magnetic tweezers. This mixing effect can be attributed to the cooperative electrostatic binding of counterions to DNA when the concentration of counterions in solution is below a critical concentration.
Durability Issues and Challenges for Material Advancements in FRP Employed in the Construction Industry
Authors: Frigione Mariaenrica , Lettieri Mariateresa
Published: February 2018

The use of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites for the rehabilitation of buildings or other infrastructure is increasingly becoming an effective and popular solution, being able to overcome some of the drawbacks experienced with traditional interventions and/or traditional materials. The knowledge of long-term performance and of durability behavior of FRP, in terms of their degradation/aging causes and mechanisms taking place in common as well as in harsh environmental conditions, still represents a critical issue for a safe and advantageous implementation of such advanced materials. The research of new and better performing materials in such fields is somewhat limited by practical and economical constrains and, as a matter of fact, is confined to an academic argument.
Global Projection of Lead-Zinc Supply from Known Resources
Authors: Mohr Steve , Giurco Damien , Retamal Monique , Mason Leah , Mudd Gavin
Published: February 2018

Lead and zinc are used extensively in the construction and automotive industries, and require sustainable supply. In order to understand the future availability of lead and zinc, we have projected global supplies on a country-by-country basis from a detailed global assessment of mineral resources for 2013. The model GeRS-DeMo was used to create projections of lead and zinc production from ores, as well as recycling for lead. Our modelling suggests that lead and zinc production from known resources is set to peak within 15 years (lead 2025, zinc 2031). For lead, the total supply declines relatively slowly post peak due to recycling. If additional resources are found, these peaks would shift further into the future. These results suggest that lead and zinc consumers will need to plan for the future, potentially by: seeking alternative supplies (e.g., mine tailings, smelter/refinery slags); obtaining additional value from critical metals contained in lead-zinc ore deposits to counter lower grade ores; identifying potential substitutes; redesigning their products; or by contributing to the development of recycling industries.
A Custom Approach for a Flexible, Real-Time and Reliable Software Defined Utility
Authors: Zaballos Agustín , Navarro Joan , Martín De Pozuelo Ramon
Published: February 2018

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have enabled the evolution of traditional electric power distribution networks towards a new paradigm referred to as the smart grid. However, the different elements that compose the ICT plane of a smart grid are usually conceived as isolated systems that typically result in rigid hardware architectures, which are hard to interoperate, manage and adapt to new situations. In the recent years, software-defined systems that take advantage of software and high-speed data network infrastructures have emerged as a promising alternative to classic ad hoc approaches in terms of integration, automation, real-time reconfiguration and resource reusability. The purpose of this paper is to propose the usage of software-defined utilities (SDUs) to address the latent deployment and management limitations of smart grids. More specifically, the implementation of a smart grid’s data storage and management system prototype by means of SDUs is introduced, which exhibits the feasibility of this alternative approach. This system features a hybrid cloud architecture able to meet the data storage requirements of electric utilities and adapt itself to their ever-evolving needs. Conducted experimentations endorse the feasibility of this solution and encourage practitioners to point their efforts in this direction.