bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damaged hardmen: Organized crime and the half‐life of deindustrialization
Authors: Fraser Alistair , Clark Andy
Published: February 2021

Despite frequent associations, deindustrialization features rarely in studies of organized crime, and organized crime is at best a spectral presence in studies of deindustrialization. By developing an original application of Linkon's concept of the “half‐life,” we present an empirical case for the symbiotic relationship between former sites of industry and the emergence of criminal markets. Based on a detailed case‐study in the west of Scotland, an area long associated with both industry and crime, the paper interrogates the environmental, social, and cultural after‐effects of deindustrialization at a community level. Drawing on 55 interviews with residents and service‐providers in Tunbrooke, an urban community where an enduring criminal market grew in the ruins of industry, the paper elaborates the complex landscapes of identity, vulnerability, and harm that are embedded in the symbiosis of crime and deindustrialization. Building on recent scholarship, the paper argues that organized crime in Tunbrooke is best understood as an instance of “residual culture” grafted onto a fragmented, volatile criminal marketplace where the stable props of territorial identity are unsettled. The analysis allows for an extension of both the study of deindustrialization and organized crime, appreciating the “enduring legacies” of closure on young people, communal identity, and social relations in the twenty‐first century.
Synthetic hair extensions causing irritant contact dermatitis in patients with a history of atopy: A report of 10 cases
Authors: Dlova Ncoza C. , Ferguson Nkanyezi N. , Rorex Jennifer N. , Todd Gail
Published: February 2021

Background

We present a case series of 10, atopic, African women who developed irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) from synthetic hair extensions.

Methods

Ten consecutive African female patients who presented with a pruritic cutaneous eruption on the neck over a period of 2 years are described. Patients underwent skin patch testing using both standard and hair commercial patch test panels and samples of their own hair extensions. Hair care products were not tested.

Results

All 10 patients used synthetic hair extensions. A strong history of atopy was documented for all the patients and examination was significant for eczematous, lichenified plaques at the location of contact with the free end of the hair extension. Patch test results yielded no relevant reactivity and a diagnosis of ICD was made for all patients. The lesions resolved completely on removal of the hair extensions and the use of topical steroids and emollients, dependent on eczema severity.

Conclusions

Artificial hair extensions should be considered as a potential irritant, resulting in ICD. Patients with a history of atopy are at risk of developing ICD from synthetic hair extensions.
Molecular phylogeography reveals two geographically and temporally separated floristic exchange tracks between Southeast Asia and northern Australia
Authors: Joyce Elizabeth M. , Pannell Caroline M. , Rossetto Maurizio , Yap Jia‐Yee S. , Thiele Kevin R. , Wilson Peter D. , Crayn Darren M.
Published: February 2021

Aim

Exchange of plant lineages between Australia and Southeast Asia has had a substantial impact on the evolution of Australia's northern, tropical flora, with important ramifications for its conservation and biosecurity. Despite this, floristic exchange tracks between northern Australia and Southeast Asia remain poorly understood. To address this, we conducted a molecular phylogeographic case study to identify exchange tracks between Australia and Southeast Asia.

Location

India, Southeast Asia, Australia and Pacific islands.

Taxon

The widespread tropical monsoonal tree species Aglaia elaeagnoidea (Meliaceae).

Methods

We conducted a DArTseq phylogeographic study of 141 herbarium and silica‐dried samples sourced from across the range of A. elaeagnoidea. We analysed 176,331 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 90,456 loci using multivariate, admixture, genetic differentiation and coalescent methods to characterise phylogeographic and phylogenetic patterns. These analyses were considered in the context of an environmental niche model for the last glacial maximum.

Results

Two exchange tracks were identified: one from New Guinea to Cape York Peninsula in north‐east Australia, and a second from Timor‐Leste to the Kimberley Plateau of north‐west Australia. The Cape York Peninsula track is contemporary, characterised by ongoing genetic exchange, whereas the Kimberley Plateau track is historic, facilitated by multiple past exposures of the Arafura Shelf during the Pleistocene. Overall, we suggest that phylogeographic patterns of A. elaeagnoidea have resulted from a combination of repeated range expansion and contraction cycles concurrent with Quaternary climate fluctuations and stochastic dispersal events.

Main conclusions

This study provides the first molecular phylogeographic evidence for two floristic exchange tracks between northern Australia and Southeast Asia. It also highlights the influence of Quaternary climate fluctuations on the complex biogeography of the region, and supports the idea that the Kimberley Plateau and Cape York Peninsula in northern Australia have separate biogeographic histories.
Different dung beetle diversity patterns emerge from overlapping biotas in a large mountain range of the Mexican Transition Zone
Authors: Joaqui Tatiana , Cultid‐Medina Carlos A. , Dáttilo Wesley , Escobar Federico
Published: February 2021

Aim

Different patterns of the species richness‐elevation relationship have been detected on mountains, however how these arise is unclear. Some patterns may be related to two different colonization processes: Lineages colonizing from adjacent lowlands (a ‘vertical’ model) or from different latitudes (a ‘horizontal’ model), or both. We aimed to test whether the predictions of the vertical and horizontal colonization models depend on the biogeographic affinity of species along an elevation gradient.

Location

Mexican Transition Zone.

Taxon

Neotropical and Holarctic dung beetles.

Methods

We sampled at 28 sites along an elevation gradient between 200 and 3450 m a.s.l. We assessed potential different shapes in the models describing the relationships between elevation and species richness, pooling all species together and also according to their biogeographic affinity (Neotropical, Holarctic). Moreover we used additive partitioning of beta‐diversity to investigate the changes in species composition along the elevation gradient, disentangling the contribution of richness differences and spatial replacement.

Results

For all species together a mid‐plateau pattern between ~ 1200 and 2200 m a.s.l was observed. Neotropical species decreased rapidly with elevation, while Holarctic species showed a mid–elevation peak at ~2500 m a.s.l. We detected three groups of elevations based on species composition, with faunal mixing of Neotropical and Holarctic species in the middle zone of the elevation gradient. We found that richness differences and spatial replacement explained changes in species composition. However, the contribution of both beta diversity components depended on the biogeographic affinity of the species.

Main conclusions

Dung beetle diversity patterns are related to the biogeographic affinity of the species. The mid‐plateau pattern is the result of the mixture of Holarctic and Neotropical species in the middle of the elevation gradient. We were able to demonstrate the importance of the use of species’ biogeographic affinities in mountain diversity studies.
Development of the sympathetic trunks in human embryos
Authors: Kruepunga Nutmethee , Hikspoors Jill P. J. M. , Hülsman Cindy J. M. , Mommen Greet M. C. , Köhler S. Eleonore , Lamers Wouter H.
Published: February 2021

Although the development of the sympathetic trunks was first described >100 years ago, the topographic aspect of their development has received relatively little attention. We visualised the sympathetic trunks in human embryos of 4.5–10 weeks post‐fertilisation, using Amira 3D‐reconstruction and Cinema 4D‐remodelling software. Scattered, intensely staining neural crest‐derived ganglionic cells that soon formed longitudinal columns were first seen laterally to the dorsal aorta in the cervical and upper thoracic regions of Carnegie stage (CS)14 embryos. Nerve fibres extending from the communicating branches with the spinal cord reached the trunks at CS15‐16 and became incorporated randomly between ganglionic cells. After CS18, ganglionic cells became organised as irregular agglomerates (ganglia) on a craniocaudally continuous cord of nerve fibres, with dorsally more ganglionic cells and ventrally more fibres. Accordingly, the trunks assumed a “pearls‐on‐a‐string” appearance, but size and distribution of the pearls were markedly heterogeneous. The change in position of the sympathetic trunks from lateral (para‐aortic) to dorsolateral (prevertebral or paravertebral) is a criterion to distinguish the “primary” and “secondary” sympathetic trunks. We investigated the position of the trunks at vertebral levels T2, T7, L1 and S1. During CS14, the trunks occupied a para‐aortic position, which changed into a prevertebral position in the cervical and upper thoracic regions during CS15, and in the lower thoracic and lumbar regions during CS18 and CS20, respectively. The thoracic sympathetic trunks continued to move further dorsally and attained a paravertebral position at CS23. The sacral trunks retained their para‐aortic and prevertebral position, and converged into a single column in front of the coccyx. Based on our present and earlier morphometric measurements and literature data, we argue that differential growth accounts for the regional differences in position of the sympathetic trunks.
Whole‐genome alignment‐based development of molecular markers for detecting Leptosphaeria maculans and Leptosphaeria biglobosa, the causal agents of blackleg disease in Brassicas
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Rashed , Ferdous Mostari Jahan , Denison Michael Immanuel Jesse , Park Jong‐In , Jung Hee‐Jeong , Kim Hoy‐Taek , Nou Ill‐Sup
Published: February 2021

Accurate diagnosis of the differentially aggressive fungi Leptosphaeria maculans ‘brassicae’ and L. biglobosa ‘brassicae’ causing blackleg disease in Brassica crops is crucial. Prior to the availability of fungal whole‐genome sequences, gene‐specific markers were designed on specific genes. But, the availability of the whole‐genome sequences of several isolates now offers a greater opportunity to develop more precise and novel markers. The draft genomes of L. maculans and L. biglobosa that are available in the repository were aligned, and species‐specific primers were designed from the variable sequences that encode for effector proteins. Three primer sets namely, Lm1, Lm2 and Lm5 and two primer sets namely Lb1’ and Lb3 specifically detected the isolates of target species in PCR assay. The primers Lm5 and Lb1’ were multiplexed for detection of L. maculans ‘brassicae’ and L. biglobosa ‘brassicae’, respectively, from a single PCR reaction. The markers were highly sensitive in amplifying target species from crude ‘pseudothecia and ascospore suspension’ without requiring DNA extraction. These markers, solitarily or in combination, could be used for precise, sensitive and rapid detection of L. maculans ‘brassicae’ and L. biglobosa ‘brassicae’ species and will be helpful for surveillance, management and transboundary quarantine of the devastating blackleg disease.
Resistance of Venturia inaequalis to multiple fungicides in Turkish apple orchards
Authors: Polat Zühtü , Bayraktar Harun
Published: February 2021

Apple scab caused by Venturia inaequalis is one of the most economically important diseases of apple worldwide. Disease management is largely based on the frequent applications of fungicides, but fungicide resistance is a common problem. In this study, we monitored the development of resistance to four MBC, DMI and QoI group fungicides with different modes of action in V. inaequalis from apple orchards in Turkey. Sensitivity of V. inaequalis from 27 orchards in six provinces was evaluated to thiophanate‐methyl, myclobutanil, difenoconazole and kresoxim‐methyl by mycelium growth assay and molecular tools. Baseline sensitivity was determined in wild isolates of V. inaequalis from apple trees that had never been treated with any fungicides. EC50 value for thiophanate‐methyl, myclobutanil, difenoconazole and kresoxim‐methyl was 0.0992, 0.0315, 0.0048 and 0.0192 μg/ml, respectively. Of the 470 single spore isolates evaluated, 93.4% was very highly resistant to thiophanate‐methyl, while 27.5% and 50.2% were resistant and moderately resistant to myclobutanil, respectively. Difenoconazole and kresoxim‐methyl resistance were confirmed in 7.45 and 97% of the isolates tested, respectively. Molecular studies revealed that resistance to MBC fungicide, thiophanate‐methyl resulted from a mutation at codon 198 in β‐tubulin gene, while the G143A mutation of cytochrome b caused resistant to the QoI, kresoxim‐methyl. This study represents the first report of V. inaequalis resistance to several fungicides from apple orchards in Turkey. The resistance risk to these fungicides should be taken into consideration in the management of apple scab in Turkey.
The synergistic effect of traditional Chinese medicine prescription and rumen‐protected γ‐aminobutyric acid on beef cattle under heat stress
Authors: Chen Jian , Mao Yaqing , Guo Kun , Wu Huansheng , Song Xiaozhen , Qu Mingren , Lan Lvtao , Luo Junrong
Published: February 2021

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription or rumen‐protected GABA (RP‐GABA) can effectively relieve the heat stress (HS) in cattle, but the joint effects of TCM and RP‐GABA on HS in beef cattle are not fully clarified. To investigate the effects of TCM or/and RP‐GABA on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, serum parameters and heat shock proteins (HSPs) expression in beef cattle under HS ambient. A total of 40 Jinjiang yellow cattle were randomly divided into four groups: (a) control group (basal diet, BD), (b) TCM group (BD+TCM), (c) GABA group (BD+RP‐GABA) and (d) TCM+GABA group (BD+TCM plus RP‐GABA). Results indicated that the average daily feed intake (ADFI) was significantly elevated in the TCM+GABA group (p < 0.05), whereas, average daily gain (ADG) was elevated (p < 0.05) in the group of TCM (38.5%), GABA (35.4%) and TCM+GABA (41.5%) compared with the control group. Meanwhile, TCM+GABA exhibited prominently more positive effects in terms of SOD, BUN, T‐CHO, TG, HDL‐C and HSP70 (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01) than the control and other treatment groups. Therefore, TCM or GABA can effectively moderate the HS response in beef cattle by ameliorating antioxidant capacity, serum parameters and HSPs expression, meanwhile, the combination of them exerts a synergistic effect on HS alleviation.
A deficiency of Dec2 triggers periodontal inflammation and pyroptosis
Authors: Oka Shunichi , Li Xiaoyan , Sato Fuyuki , Zhang Fengzhu , Tewari Nitesh , Kim Il‐Shin , Zhong Liangjun , Hamada Nobushiro , Makishima Makoto , Liu Yi , Bhawal Ujjal K.
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives

Periodontal pathogens initiate various diseases and induce inflammatory host responses. The activation of inflammasomes triggers caspase‐1 and interleukin (IL)‐1β‐mediated pyroptosis via gasdermin D (GSDMD). Differentiated embryo chondrocyte 2 (Dec2) is a transcription repressor that controls the expression of genes involved in innate immune and inflammatory responses. However, the effects of Dec2 on inflammasome‐induced pyroptosis in periodontal tissues remain elusive. This study aimed to characterize the activation of Dec2 inflammasomes that contribute to P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced pyroptosis and its functional and regulatory importance in periodontal inflammation.

Materials and Methods

Human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPDLFs) were stimulated with P. gingivalis LPS in vitro. An experimental periodontitis mouse model (wild‐type (WT) and Dec2KO) was established to profile periodontal pyroptosis.

Results

The results demonstrate that P. gingivalis LPS activates caspase‐1, caspase‐11, and NF‐κB in HGFs and in HPDLFs. siRNA knockdown of Dec2 stimulated the induction and further upregulated LPS‐induced pyroptosis in HGFs and HPDLFs, resulting in the release of IL‐1β. Further, a deficiency of Dec2 alleviated periodontal pyroptosis via the transcriptional induction of GSDMD. In addition, P. gingivalis‐induced IL‐1β expression and Dec2‐deficient mice subsequently increased the inflammatory effect of P. gingivalis in HGFs and in HPDLFs, confirming the importance of Dec2 in the activation of inflammasomes and the regulation of pyroptosis.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that Dec2 alleviates periodontal pyroptosis by regulating the expression of NF‐κB, caspase‐1 and GSDMD, suggesting that Dec2 is a crucial component of inflammasome activation and subsequent pyroptosis.
Chalcone T4, a novel chalconic compound, inhibits inflammatory bone resorption in vivo and suppresses osteoclastogenesis in vitro
Authors: Fernandes Natalie Aparecida Rodrigues , Camilli Angelo Constantino , Maldonado Laura Andrea Gonzalez , Pacheco Cindy Grace Pérez , Silva Amanda Favoreto , Molon Rafael Scaf , Spolidorio Luiz Carlos , Ribeiro de Assis Letícia , Regasini Luis Octavio , Rossa Junior Carlos , Guimarães‐Stabili Morgana Rodrigues
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effect of a novel synthetic chalcone, Chalcone T4, on a murine model of periodontitis and on RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro.

Background

Chalcones are natural compounds with anti‐inflammatory properties, and its synthetic analogs with enhanced biological effects have potential as therapeutic agents. Periodontitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the periodontium and alveolar bone resorption. Safe and effective anti‐inflammatory agents can have an important additive effect in the treatment in this disease.

Methods

Periodontitis was induced via the installation of a ligature around the first molar. Rats (n = 32) received Chalcone T4 (5 and 50 mg/kg) or distilled water by gavage daily for 15 days. Outcomes assessed were bone resorption (μCT), TNF‐α production (ELISA), cellular infiltrate, and collagen content (stereometric analysis, CD45+ cells by immunohistochemistry), and activation of NFATc1 and NF‐kB (immunohistochemistry). In vitro, RAW 264.7 were treated with Chalcone T4 and stimulated with RANKL for assessment of osteoclast differentiation (actin ring staining) and activity (pit assay).

Results

Chalcone T4 significantly reduced periodontitis‐associated bone resorption, as well as the cellular infiltrate, while increasing the collagen content. Production of TNF‐α, infiltration of CD45‐positive cells, and NF‐kB activation were markedly reduced. In vitro, chalcone T4 inhibited both osteoclast differentiation and activity.

Conclusion

Chalcone T4 significantly inhibited alveolar bone resorption and inflammation in vivo and RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro, suggesting a therapeutic role for this compound in the treatment of periodontitis.
Potential biomarkers reflecting inflammation in patients with severe periodontitis: Fractalkine (CX3CL1) and its receptor (CX3CR1)
Authors: Balci Nur , Cekici Ali , Kurgan Şivge , Sahinkaya Selin , Serdar Muhittin A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine differences in GCF and serum levels of fractalkine/CX3CL1 and its receptor/ CX3CR1 between the patients with stage III/grade B periodontitis and periodontally healthy subjects.

Background

Fractalkine (CX3CL1), the only member of CX3C chemokine family, is involved in the pathogenesis of several systemic inflammatory diseases’ disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, tonsillitis, and diabetes mellitus. It has critical functions in inflammatory cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation.

Methods

20 stage III/grade B periodontitis (P) and 20 healthy individuals (control; C) were included in this clinical study (all never smokers and systemically healthy). Clinical periodontal parameters were measured. Serum and GCF levels of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and reported as total amounts and concentration.

Results

The GCF concentrations and also total amount of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β were statistically significantly higher in the patients with periodontitis compared with control group (P < 0.05). CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL‐1β levels in the GCF were significantly and positively correlated with all the clinical periodontal parameters (PI, PPD, BOP, and CAL; P < 0.01, P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between IL‐1β, CX3CL1, and CX3CR1 concentrations in the GCF (respectively; r = 0.838 and r = 0.874, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Fractalkine and its receptor may play role in mechanisms through the regulation of inflammation or on the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.
Nationwide treatment and outcomes of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: van Keulen Anne‐Marleen , Franssen Stijn , van der Geest Lydia G. , de Boer Marieke T. , Coenraad Minneke , van Driel Lydi M. J. W. , Erdmann Joris I. , Haj Mohammad Nadia , Heij Lara , Klümpen Heinz‐Josef , Tjwa Eric , Valkenburg‐van Iersel Liselot , Verheij Joanne , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Olthof Pim B. ,   the Dutch Hepatocellular & Cholangiocarcinoma Group (DHCG)
Published: February 2021

Background

Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) is a rare tumour that requires complex multidisciplinary management. All known data are almost exclusively derived from expert centres. This study aimed to analyse the outcomes of patients with pCCA in a nationwide cohort.

Methods

Data on all patients diagnosed with pCCA in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2018 were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Data included type of hospital of diagnosis and the received treatment. Outcomes included the type of treatment and overall survival.

Results

A total of 2031 patients were included and the median overall survival for the overall cohort was 5.2 (95% CI 4.7‐5.7) months. Three‐hundred‐ten (15%) patients underwent surgical resection, 271 (13%) underwent palliative systemic treatment, 21 (1%) palliative local anti‐cancer treatment and 1429 (70%) underwent best supportive care. These treatments resulted in a median overall survival of 29.6 (95% CI 25.2‐34.0), 12.2 (95% CI 11.0‐13.3), 14.5 (95%CI 8.2‐20.8) and 2.9 (95% CI 2.6‐3.2) months respectively. Resection rate was 13% in patients who were diagnosed in non‐academic and 32% in academic centres (P < .001), which resulted in a survival difference in favour of academic centres. Median overall survival was 9.7 (95% CI 7.7‐11.7) months in academic centres compared to 4.9 (95% CI 4.3‐5.4) months in non‐academic centres (P < .001).

Conclusions

In patients with pCCA, resection rate and overall survival were higher for patients who were diagnosed in academic centres. These results show population‐based outcomes of pCCA and highlight the importance of regional collaboration in the treatment of these patients.
Street‐level bureaucrats as policy entrepreneurs: Action strategies for flexible community governance in China
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Zhao Ji , Dong Weiwei
Published: February 2021

Street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs) can act as policy entrepreneurs to cope with the dilemmas in policy implementation. However, there is insufficient knowledge about whether the strategies adopted by them that SLBs in the role of policy entrepreneurs are institution sensitive. In addition, there is insufficient knowledge regarding the elements that impel and support such entrepreneurial actions. Based on China's community governance, this article attempts to clarify the strategies employed by SLBs to that result in their becoming policy entrepreneurs. It was observed that the Chinese SLBs primarily employed three strategies to act as policy entrepreneurs, which shows that different institutional contexts may shape the various strategies. This article indicates that the opportunity structure of the institution, in this case, the Chinese bureaucracy, enables SLBs to act entrepreneurially and the success of these strategies is also dependent on the SLBs' accountability and communication skills.
Effect of immunosuppression maintenance in solid organ transplant recipients with COVID‐19: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Karruli Arta , Spiezia Serenella , Boccia Filomena , Gagliardi Massimo , Patauner Fabian , Salemme Anna , Maiello Ciro , Zampino Rosa , Durante‐Mangoni Emanuele
Published: February 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of continuing immune suppressive therapy in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of data on 202 SOTR with COVID‐19, published as case reports or case series. We extracted clinical, hemato‐chemical, imaging, treatment, and outcome data.

Results

Most patients were kidney recipients (61.9%), males (68.8%), with median age of 57 years. The majority was on tacrolimus (73.5%) and mycophenolate (65.8%). Mortality was 18.8%, but an equal proportion was still hospitalized at last follow up. Immune suppressive therapy was withheld in 77.2% of patients, either partially or completely. Tacrolimus was continued in 50%. One third of survivors that continued immunosuppressants were on dual therapy plus steroids. None of those who continued immunosuppressants developed critical COVID‐19 disease. Age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1‐1.11,P = .001) and lopinavir/ritonavir use (OR 3.3, 95%CI 1.2‐8.5,P = .013) were independent predictors of mortality while immunosuppression maintenance (OR 0.067, 95% CI 0.008‐0.558,P = .012) and tacrolimus continuation (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1‐0.7,P = .013) were independent predictors of survival.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that maintaining immune suppression might be safe in SOTR with moderate and severe COVID‐19. Specifically, receiving tacrolimus could be beneficial for COVID‐19 SOTR. Because of the quality of the available evidence, no definitive guidance on how to manage SOTR with COVID‐19 can be derived from our data.
HEAT TRANSFER ENHANCEMENT USING PASSIVE TECHNIQUE: REVIEW
Authors: Akeedy Adnan  Rasheed , Alias Hajar , D. Salman Sami
Published: February 2021

Preserving and saving energy have never been more important, thus the requirement for more effective and efficient heat exchangers has never been more important. However, in order to pave the way for the proposal of a truly efficient technique, there is a need to understand the shortcomings and strengths of various aspects of heat transfer techniques. This review aims to systematically identify these characteristics two of the most popular passive heat transfer techniques: nanofluids and helically coiled tubes. The review indicated that nanoparticles improve thermal conductivity of base fluid and that the nanoparticle size, as well as the concentrations of the nanoparticles plays a major role in the effectiveness of the nanofluids. Regarding the helically coiled tubes, it was discovered that the use of a coiled tube produces secondary flows, which ultimately improves the heat transfer enhancement. The third part of the review focused on microchannels and microtubes. This is mainly due to the growing need and requirement of smaller and more compact thermal cooling systems. Thus, ultimately the result of the review indicates that a combination of all these three techniques can lead to a compact and minimized heat exchanger that uses the benefits obtained from both nanofluids and helically coiled tubes in order to improve the heat transfer rate of the thermal systems.
INVESTIGATION ON DOWNSTREAM PROCESSING OF INDUSTRIAL SCALE OF FLEXIRUBIN PRODUCTION USING SUPERPRO DESIGNER
Authors: Arriafdi Muhammad Zainuddin , Sani Mohd Helmi , Ahmad Wan Azlina , Zainal Alam Muhd Nazrul Hisham
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work is to utilize a process simulator SuperPro Designer v5.5 (Intelligent, NJ, USA) for investigation on the most optimum scenario for the recovery of flexirubin pigment that was produced from a fermentation process using Chryseobacterium artocarpi strain. Process flow sheeting was based on the production of 300 kg per annum of flexirubin. Production phase at 1000 L bioreactor (including steps for the inoculum development) and different scenarios/routes for recovery of flexirubin were considered. SuperPro designer process simulator allowed for the computation of overall operating cost and capital cost under various operating parameters. Results from simulation shows that all proposed downstream processing routes is capable of achieving a high degree of flexirubin recovery yield i.e. at least 94% (or greater).  Operating cost was relatively low as the overall quantity of flexirubin was rather small. Capital cost for equipment purchasing however highly depending on the selection of unit procedures for recovery of flexirubin. Centrifugation unit accelerated the separation processes but it is costly compared to the dead-end filtration unit. The latter was found to be the bottleneck for the optimization step where high yield of flexirubin can be warranted at reduced capital cost by at least 40%.
pH DEPENDENT STRUCTURES OF BOVINE SERUM IN SOLUTION BY SMALL ANGLE NEUTRON SCATTERING
Authors: Patriati Arum , Putra Edy Giri Rachman
Published: February 2021

The pH-dependent structures of the bovine serum albumin (BSA), under physiological conditions that permit enzymatic activity, were investigated by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). The unfolding behavior of BSA in solution is important to understand the mechanism of protein aggregation due to protein conformational change. The information of protein structure is crucial to design the perfect protein-based drug delivery device. This information will be useful as a complementary data of BSA crystal structure in static state. The structure of BSA in solution was found to be heart shaped, nearly identical to bovine serum albumin crystal structure. The globular heart shaped structure of BSA was still maintained at alkaline pH range of 7 to 11. It underwent partial unfolding at pH 5 and continued to unfold at pH 3. The unfolded-structure of BSA shows that the globular structure started to change into a cylinder-like structure at pH 3 which was clearly shown in Kratky plot. These results were confirmed with ab initio low-resolution shape calculation model analysis using GNOM and DAMMIF in obtaining the three-dimensional protein structure model.
REACTIVE POWER ANALYSIS AT SOLAR POWER PLANT
Authors: Abdul Kadir Aida Fazliana , Mupangat Hanisah , Mat Said Dalila , Rasin Zulhani
Published: February 2021

Reactive power is essential to control the power system's voltage stability as the reactive power is directly proportional to the voltage. Hence, every new solar photovoltaic (PV) plant installed in the grid system must comply with the grid code requirements to ensure that the electricity supply remains stable and reliable. As the more penetration of PV plants, the electrical system will face some challenges related to reactive power control and voltage support. Thus, many countries including Malaysia have updated their grid codes to permit a smooth interaction between these new plants with the grid system. The inverter of PV solar connected to grid system are required to supply rated power output (MW) at point of common coupling (PCC) between the limits of 0.85 power factor lagging, and 0.95 leading follow to the Malaysian Grid Code (MGC) requirement. Hence, this research aims to design a controller for the PV inverter in Matlab/Simulink that able to absorb and supply the reactive power. Then, the comparison will execute between the simulation results and the MGC requirement. However, due to power loss in the system, the PV inverter controller may not comply with the reactive power capability as the MGC requirement. Thus, the PV system need to integrate with the capacitor bank as a reactive power compensator.
Optimization and finite element analysis of an in-wheel permanent magnet motor
Authors: Zaaraoui Lassaad , Mansouri Ali
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, artificial intelligence techniques have become widely used in electrical machines optimization and design.  In this attempt, different methods have been proposed. The present work is devoted to the electromagnetic analysis and design of an in-wheel radial flux outer rotor surface mounted permanent magnet motor (SMPM) for electric vehicle application. Two based-Swarm Particle Optimization (PSO) techniques, namely, the improved PSO multi-Objective optimization and the Speed-constrained Multi-objective PSO Optimization, are applied. The main idea of the current optimization procedure is to determine the optimal machine sizing parameters providing the maximum of efficiency with the minimum of weight. To reach this goal, two objective functions are employed the efficiency maximization and the weight minimization. A preliminary analytical model describing the magnetic and electrical machine features was presented. In order to find the optimum design, the optimization results are discussed and analyzed. In addition, the electromagnetic performances of the found optimum design were studied by means of finite element analysis (FEA) and compared with those obtained by the optimization procedure.
A review on wax deposition issue and its impact on the operational factors in the crude oil pipeline
Authors: Elganidi Ibrahim , Elarbe Basem , Ridzuan Norida , Abdullah Norhayati
Published: February 2021

The deposition of wax is a common occurrence affecting the flowability of crude oil, which happens at a temperature beneath the Wax Appearance Temperature. At this threshold, there is a gradual accumulation of crystals wax on the inner surface of pipelines. In this research, the previous studies on the effects of residence time, pressure, flow rate, crude oil composition, and temperature differential were carefully enumerated. On the overall, the differential temperature across the pipeline wall and crude oil inside it were considered as the most critical factor contributing to wax deposition. The result from different studies had argued out the effect of significant temperature differential as a leading cause of wax deposition reduction. Also, there is conflict among many researchers on whether the flow rate could result in a reduction in the amount and thickness of deposited wax. However, the wax deposition increases with an increasing resident time up to a particular time, after which the wax deposition experiences a downward trend. On the contrary, most researchers indicated that pressure is not a significant factor of wax deposition, but the conclusion that obtained through this research shows the opposite. Despite these, additional works are required in acquiring substantial results for more accurate as compared with the real-life crude oil flow in the pipeline.
Optimization and modeling of reactive conditions for free radical solution polymerization of SA-co-BA copolymer based on the yield using response surface methodology
Authors: Elarbe Basem , Elganidi Ibrahim , Abdullah Norhayati , Yusoh Kamal , Ridzuan Norida
Published: February 2021

In the recent years, response surface methodology (RSM) is one of the most common optimization methods employed in the chemical process. The satisfactory model for predicting the maximum yield in solution polymerization has been a challenge due to various conditions during the synthesis process. In this study, interactive impacts of three parameters which are reaction time, concentration of initiator, and reaction temperature on the yield in free radical polymerization of SABA copolymer using toluene as solvent was investigated using experimental design central composite design (CCD) model under response surface methodology (RSM). The result showed the optimization conditions were reaction time of 7 h, initiator concentration of 1 wt %, and reaction temperature of 90 oC with the corresponding yield of 97.31%. The analysis of the regression model (ANOVA) detected an R2 value of 0.9844, that the model is able to clarify 98.44% of the data variation, and just 1.23% of the whole differences is not clarified by the model. Three experimental validation runs were carried out using the optimal replicate conditions and the highest average yield value obtained is 97.15%. There is an error of about 0.97% as compared to the expected value.Therefore, the results indicate that this model is reliable and is able to predict the yield response accurately. it established that the regression model is extremely significant, indicating a strong agreement between the expected and the experimental values of SABA yield.
Scavenging malachite green dye from aqueous solution using durian peel based activated carbon
Authors: Mohamad Yusop Mohamad Firdaus , Ahmad Mohd Azmier , Rosli Nur Ayshah , Gonawan Fadzil Noor , Abdullah Soran Jalal
Published: February 2021

Physiochemical activation consists of heat treatment coupling with CO2 gasification and KOH chemical treatment were applied in preparing durian peel based activated carbon (DPAC) to remove basic dye, malachite green (MG) from aqueous solution. Several parameters namely, effect of initial MG concentration as well as contact time, solution temperature and initial solution pH were carried out in this study. Characterization study revealed that DPAC pose high BET surface area which is 886.31 m2/g and its surface was found to be mesoporous in nature with heterogeneous type of pore structures. Eight isotherms and four kinetic models were utilized and it was revealed that the adsorpttion system followed Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-first order (PFO) kinetic model. Mechanism study using intraparticle diffusion and Boyd plot confirmed that adsorption of MG onto DPAC was controlled by the film-diffusion mechanism. Thermodynamic study indicated that the adsorption system was exothermic, spontaneous, feasible and governed by physical-type of adsorption.
Financial Imbalance Risk and Its Control Strategy of China’s Pension Insurance Contribution Rate Reduction
Authors: Jing Peng , Chang Cai , Zhu Heng , Hu Qiuming
Published: February 2021

Within the context of China’s Urban Employees’ Basic Pension Insurance (UEBPI), this paper constructs an actuarial model to analyze the financial imbalance risk of contribution rate reduction and to investigate the possibility of further reducing the contribution rate. It is found that the UEBPI fund would show financial imbalance risk in 2024 if the contribution rate is 16%, and no control strategy is introduced. In the case of single strategy (the collection system reform, delay of retirement age, or the introduction of external finance), the financial sustainability of the UEBPI fund could be improved to some extent, whereas the financial imbalance risk remains huge. In the case of a package of control strategies being implemented, the UEBPI fund could be able to continue its operation until 2060, and the contribution rate can be further reduced by 0–4 percentage. Therefore, the implementation of a package of control strategies presents a prerequisite for controlling the financial imbalance risk and further reducing the contribution rate.
Perioperative Use of Flurbiprofen Axetil on Renal Function after Transurethral Prostatectomy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Wang Dong , Xie Wenxiu , Li Bo , Zhao Yufan , Liu Xing , Zhang Yufeng , Tang Yongzhong , Yin Xinlin
Published: February 2021

Objective. To explore the role of low-dose flurbiprofen axetil in perioperative renal protection. Methods. A total of 83 patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) between August 2020 and November 2020 at the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University were selected, aged 60-85 years old, American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status classes 1-3, BMI 18-30 kg/m2, randomly divided into the experimental group (group F,

n
=
42

) and control group (group C,

n
=
41

). 10 minutes before the operation, group F was injected with 100 mg (10 mL) flurbiprofen axetil, and group C was injected with 10 mL 0.9% saline, comparing the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and changes in glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between the two groups. Cystatin-C, Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL), IL-6, and CRP were compared between the two groups at 4 time points (before surgery, 6 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours after surgery). Results. A total of 80 cases were enrolled, 40 in group F and 40 in group C. There was no significant difference in baseline between the two groups (

P
>
0.05

). The NGAL of group F was significantly lower than group C at 6 hours after the operation (

367.99
±
311.83

vs.

243.02
±
151.73

,

P
=
0.026

), but there was no significant difference in NGAL and Cystatin-C at other time points (

P
>
0.05

). And there was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative AKI between the two groups (0% vs. 2.5%,

P
=
0.314

). Conclusion. 100 mg flurbiprofen axetil can reduce the NGAL at 6 hours after TURP, and it may have a protective effect on the kidney.
Circulating Exosomal miR-96 as a Novel Biomarker for Radioresistant Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zheng Qin , Ding Huaiyin , Wang Lixue , Yan Yu , Wan Yuan , Yi Yongxiang , Tao Liang , Zhu Chuandong
Published: February 2021

Patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) frequently develop radioresistance, resulting in poor response to radiation and unfavourable prognosis. Early detection of radioresistance hence can guide the adjustment of treatment regimens in time. Exosomes are lipid bilayer-enclosed vesicles with sub-micrometer size that are released by various cells. Exosomes contain a tissue-specific signature wherein a variety of proteins and nucleic acids are selectively packaged. Growing evidence shows exosomes are involved in cancer pathophysiology and exosomes as the latest addition to the liquid biopsy portfolio have been used in cancer diagnosis. Compared to cell free RNA, exosomal lipid envelope can effectively protect RNA cargo against degradation. Therefore, exosomes may hold great promise for the identification of radioresistance. Here, we report six plasma exosomal miRNAs could be used to distinguish radioresistant NSCLC patients from radiosensitive NSCLC patients and to evaluate the prognosis of NSCLC. Samples were obtained from 52 NSCLC patients with or without radioresistance and 45 age-matched healthy volunteers. Exosomes in 1 ml plasma were isolated followed by extraction of small RNA. The expression levels of miRNAs were determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Potential miRNA markers were further evaluated in additional 52 NSCLC patients. We found exosomal miR-1246 and miR-96 are significantly overexpressed in NSCLC patients. Moreover, exosomal miR-96 in patients with radioresistant NSCLC is significantly higher than that of controls. Exosomal miR-96 also demonstrates a significant correlation with vascular invasion and poor overall survival. Altogether, our results indicate that exosomal miR-96 could be a non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic marker of radioresistant NSCLC.
Osthole Inhibits Breast Cancer Progression through Upregulating Tumor Suppressor GNG7
Authors: Mei Jie , Wang Tiejun , Zhao Shaojie , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2021

Osthole (OST) is a plant-derived compound that can inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells and has a tumor-suppressive effect in multiple types of cancers. However, the mechanisms of OST-mediated breast cancer (BrCa) inhibition were still largely unknown. In this study, we made full use of the GSE85871 dataset to identify potential targets of OST in BrCa via multiple bioinformatics analysis. Next, a series of in vitro experiments were conducted to check the role of GNG7 in BrCa and the relationship between OST and GNG7. Through a series of bioinformatics analyses, GNG7 was identified as a potential target of OST, which could be significant upregulated by OST exposure in BrCa cells. Besides, GNG7 was lowly expressed in BrCa tissues compared with normal breast tissues, and BrCa patients with low GNG7 expression had shorter overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) compared with those with high GNG7 expression. Moreover, GNG7 silencing significantly enhanced cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis, and exogenous overexpression of GNG7 showed reverse effects on BrCa cells. Last but not least, GNG7 inhibition could notably rescue OST-mediated cytotoxic effects. In summary, we identified GNG7 as a novel target for OST in BrCa and a potential tumor suppressor. Thus, OST could be therapeutically beneficial for BrCa through a GNG7-dependent mechanism.
Numerical Investigation and Design of Reinforced Concrete Shear Wall Equipped with Tuned Liquid Multiple Columns Dampers
Authors: Wang Zhe , Cao Liang , Ubertini Filippo , Laflamme Simon
Published: February 2021

The tuned liquid multiple column damper (TLMCD) is a variation of the tuned liquid column damper (TLCD) that includes multiple vertical columns. A new damping system that embeds TLMCDs within reinforced concrete shear wall systems, termed tuned liquid wall damper (TLWD), is proposed, augmenting the traditional structural component with energy dissipation capabilities. The objective of this study is to assess energy mitigation and strength trade‐offs in designing TLWDs and demonstrating the promise of TLWD systems in tall buildings through vertically distributed applications. This is done by investigating the performance of the proposed TLWD through the finite element model (FEM) of a simplified representation of a 42‐story building equipped with the multifunctional component. A strength model for the TLWD is developed to empower faster performance evaluation on more complex models. Results from the FEM are used to validate the strength model and show that the model could be used conservatively in assessing strength performance. Design considerations are discussed based on the simplified representation. In particular, to improve mitigation performance while maintaining strength, it is found that a single‐layer arrangement of the vertical columns is preferred, while distributing the inertia among a higher number of smaller columns. The proposed TLWD is numerically evaluated on a more realistic system consisting of a multi‐degrees‐of‐freedom representation of the 42‐story building under stochastic wind excitation. Simulation results demonstrate that the TLWD, used in a vertically distributed configuration through the building, could be used to mitigate vibrations, outperforming a traditional TLCD system with geometric constraints under 20 design wind realization. Results from the numerical simulations also confirmed the design considerations established through the simplified representation.