bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Agricultural Systems in the Brazilian Savanna
Authors: Souza Jéssica Pereira de , Bortolon Elisandra Solange Oliveira , Bortolon Leandro , Camargo Francelino Peteno de , Conceição Willian Sousa Silva , Lima Alan de Ornelas , Vezzani Fabiane Machado
Published: September 2019

The objectives of this work were to evaluate the CO2 emission potential of an Oxisol under integrated crop-livestock and no-tillage systems in the Brasilian Savanna; and to analyze the impact of soil temperature and soil moisture as factors that regulate the seasonality and the emission of C-CO2 in these systems. Field-scale study was carried out at Fazenda Brejinho, in Pedro Afonso-TO, under Oxisol. The production systems studied were integrated crop-livestock and no-tillage under cropped with soybean and corn. The amount of carbon (C) released from the soil in the form of CO2 (C-CO2) was evaluated using cylindrical chambers installed in the field with a vial containing sodium hydroxide to collect CO2 released from the soil (soil emission) in an interval of 15 hours. Five evaluations were conducted over crops growing season, started in 01/26 through 06/16/2015. Data were tested to analysis of variance and the means were compared with Duncan test at 5%. The emission of C-CO2 differed between treatments in all evaluation periods. On average, the temperature ranged from 26.5 to 27.7 °C, the soil moisture ranged from 12.2 to 15.7% and the C-CO2 emission ranged from 87.4 to 119.9 mg m-2 h-1. Temperature, soil moisture and the production systems contributed to the emission and seasonality of carbon dioxide emissions. The integrated crop-livestock cropped with soybean/corn rotation was the system that had the lowest carbon dioxide emission.
Sugarcane Varieties for Animal Feeding in the Pre-Amazon Region of Brazil
Authors: Alves André da Silva , Shigaki Fancirose , Silva Taise Facundes , Siqueira Elane Tyara de Jesus , Veras Ludhana Marinho , Costa Gabriella da Rocha , Freitas José Roberto , Rodrigues Rosane Claudia
Published: September 2019

The expansion of agricultural frontiers in Brazil has resulted in the growth of ruminant production in the Pre-Amazon Region. However, this production is favored mainly in the rainy season, due to the greater supply of pasture for the animals. This fact limits the maintenance of production due to the lack of quality forage for the animals throughout the year. This work aimed to evaluate the nutritional value of the different sugarcane varieties for animal feeding during four crop cycles. In this experiment, the varieties RB 92579, RB 867515 and RB 863129 were studied for cane plant, first, second and third ratoons. The experiment was divided in four stages according to each cycle, and each cycle lasted approximately 10 to 11 months. For the productivity analysis and other parameters samples were collected at the end of each experimental cycle, when the dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), Brix, NDF/Brix and produtctivity were determined. The RB 92579 variety showed higher productivity (P < 0.05) in all the studied cycles, and remained above the national productivity average in all the cycles (±75 ton ha-1). This same variety, presented the best results for all nutricional parameters (DM, CP, NDF, ADF and FDN/Brix) when compared to the other varieties. The productivity/nutritional relation value must be taken into account when choosing a variety for animal feeding, being the RB 92579 variety the most expressive, during four cycles, wich lasted 4 years.
Sistemas de localização indoor utilizando Bluetooth Low Energy: Uma revisão sistemática
Authors: da Silva Rodrigues Matheus , Teixeira de Carvalho Sérgio
Published: September 2019

A localização indoor mostra-se essencial visto que há um crescimento de aplicações que fazem o uso desta. Consequentemente, a necessidade de localizar usuários de forma eficiente nestes ambientes também surge. Por isto, este artigo realiza uma revisão sistemática dos métodos existentes de localização indoor. Com a definição e a aplicação de um método de pesquisa, a revisão tem o intuito de determinar como se encontra o atual estado da arte deste assunto.
My Lunch: Inovação na interface de usuário em aplicativo para entrega de comida
Authors: Jefferson Albuquerque Policarpo Henrique , L. da Costa Paiva Sofia
Published: September 2019

Este artigo apresenta o processo de criação do aplicativo para entrega de comida chamado MyLunch, que visa inovar na qualidade da interface de usuário (IU) de modo a oferecer mais informações e melhor usabilidade. Como resultado, a IU torna mais agradável a experiência do cliente e promove a inclusão de pessoas que não possuem domínio de tecnologias móveis.
A Theory of Influence in Software Ecosystems: A Developers Perspective
Authors: Serva Pereira Vinicius , Pereira dos Santos Rodrigo
Published: September 2019

The social perspective is increasingly presented in software development. As a consequence, influence emerges as a relevant factor in the interaction between developers using the same technological platform, the socalled software ecosystems (SECO). Influence can be considered as the power that something or someone can have over something or a person and can be a determining factor for the success or failure of a SECO. This work aims to present a Master research proposal for a theory to explain how influence, as a power, manifests among developers in SECO. We intend to build the theory based on empirical evidence from our studies in GitHub SECO, in light of the theoretical framework underpinned by French and Ravens power taxonomy.
Simple Speech Transform Coding Scheme using Forward Adaptive Quantization for Discrete Input Signal
Authors: Peric Zoran , Tancic Milan , Simic Nikola , Despotovic Vladimir
Published: September 2019

We propose a speech coding scheme based on the simple transform coding and forward adaptive quantization for discrete input signal processing in this paper. The quasi-logarithmic quantizer is applied to discretization of continuous input signal, i.e. for preparing discrete input. The application of forward adaptation based on the input signal variance provides more efficient bandwidth usage, whereas utilization of transform coding provides sub-sequences with more predictable signal characteristics that ensure higher quality of signal reconstruction at the receiving end. In order to provide additional compression, transform coding precedes adaptive quantization. As an objective measure of system performance we use signal-to-quantization-noise ratio. Sysem performance is discussed for two typical cases. In the first case, we consider that the information about continuous signal variance is available whereas the second case considers system performance estimation when we know only the information about discretized signal variance which means that there is a loss of input signal information. The main goal of such performance estimation comparison of the proposed speech signal coding model is to explore what is the objectivity of performance if we do not have information about a continuous source, which is a common phenomenon in digital systems.
Mycobacterium abscessus Prosthetic Joint Infections of the Knee
Authors: Nengue Lydie , A. Mark Anthony , Sherman Courtney E. , Bhasin Arveen , Libertin Claudia R.
Published: September 2019

Abstract. M. abscessus complex prosthetic joint infections (PJI) of the knee are rare. We present a patient with an M. abscessus subsp. massiliense, a nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM), peri-prosthetic knee infection who presented with wound drainage followed by sepsis. The published peer-reviewed literature on knee PJIs due to this organism is reviewed to highlight its clinical presentation,symptomatology, microbiology, surgical interventions, antimicrobial regimens, and outcomes.
Arthroscopic Evaluation of the Subtalar Joint: A Review and Survey of Pathology
Authors: Whelan James H. , Kiser Caroline R. , Lazoritz John P. , Nelson Patrick , Sikes Jordan , Greenhagen Robert M.
Published: September 2019

Background

A survey of pathology present in the subtalar joint by means of subtalar arthroscopy with anterolateral and middle portals has not been extensively explored in the literature. The focus of this study was to identify pathology in the subtalar joint with subtalar joint arthroscopy using this approach. We also compared these arthroscopic findings with those reported in the literature.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 49 consecutive patients who had undergone 53 subtalar arthroscopic procedures. Data were obtained from intraoperative arthroscopic findings that were documented in the operative note or with arthroscopic photography. Additional procedures, including ankle arthroscopy, lateral ankle stabilization, and peroneal tendon repair, were recorded. Descriptive statistics were calculated and reported.

Results

Subtalar arthroscopic examination revealed that all of the patients had intra-articular synovitis or adhesions present. Twenty-two procedures (42%) demonstrated subtalar joint instability, seven (13%) revealed chondromalacia, and one (2%) had an exostosis present. These observations are consistent with other reported findings in the literature.

Conclusions

This study found that the subtalar joint was most often affected by synovitis, adhesions, and instability in patients with symptomatic pathologies requiring subtalar arthroscopy. There was a relatively low incidence of chondromalacia or exostosis formation in the survey.
Tanaella quintanai, a new deep-water tanaellid (Crustacea: Peracarida: Tanaidacea) from the Colombian Caribbean Coast, with a key to the species of the genusTanaellaNorman & Stebbing, 1886
Authors: Morales-Núñez Andrés G. , Ardila Néstor E.
Published: September 2019

A new tanaidacean,Tanaella quintanaisp. nov., is described based on specimens collected from depths of 1,598 to 2,853 m during 2014–2015. The new species appears to be most closely related to the western Atlantic species,T. kroyeriandT. mclellandi.Tanaella quintanaican be separated from the two former, as well as from the other members of the genus by a combination of characters, including (1) alabiumwith apical lobe bearing one blunt seta (2) a cheliped with the inner margin of the dactylus bearing a sub-proximal bipinnate seta, (3) pereopods 1−3 with basis having sub-dorsoproximal and sub-ventroproximal margins setulose, (4) pereopods 4−6 with basis having ventroproximal margin setulose, (5) pereopods 4−6 with unguis bearing two parallel rows of small setules, and (6) a pleotelson as long as pleonites 1–5 combined. A key separating the currently recognized species ofTanaellais presented.
Estimating flowering transition dates from status-based phenological observations: a test of methods
Authors: Taylor Shawn D.
Published: September 2019

The scale of phenological research has expanded due to the digitization of herbarium specimens and volunteer based contributions. These data are status-based, representing the presence or absence of a specific phenophase. Modelling the progress of plant dormancy to growth and reproduction and back to dormancy requires estimating the transition dates from these status-based observations. There are several methods available for this ranging from statistical moments using the day of year to newly introduced methods using concepts from other fields. Comparing the proficiency of different estimators is difficult since true transition dates are rarely known. Here I use a recently released dataset of in-situ flowering observations of the perennial forb Echinacea angustifolia. In this dataset, due to high sampling frequency and unique physiology, the transition dates of onset, peak, and end of flowering are known to within 3 days. I used a Monte Carlo analysis to test eight different estimators across two scales using a range of sample sizes and proportion of flowering presence observations. I evaluated the estimators accuracy in predicting the onset, peak, and end of flowering at the population level, and predicting onset and end of flowering for individual plants. Overall, a method using a Weibull distribution performed the best for population level onset and end estimates, but other estimators may be more appropriate when there is a large amount of absence observations relative to presence observations. For individual estimates a method using the midway point between the first flower presence and most prior flower absence, within 7 days, is the best option as long as the restriction does not limit the final sample size. Otherwise, the Weibull method is adequate for individual estimates as well. These methods allow practitioners to effectively utilize the large amount of status-based phenological observations currently available.
Lumped Elements and Its Existence in Quasi Lumped Element Resonator Antenna
Authors: Bello T. M. , Tekanyi A. M. S. , Usman A. D.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the Quasi Lumped Element Resonator Antenna is reviewed. It is composed of Lumped elements. Lumped Elements are passive components whose size across any dimensions should be small to make it a lumped element. The various researches that have been done to come about the various types of basic building blocks of the lumped element are staged in this write up. This review is towards accomplishing the derivation of the component elements used in the design of the Quasi Lumped Element Resonator Antenna. These elements are the interdigital capacitor, inductor and pad capacitors. The pertinent formulae for determining each one of them were all expressed in this review. The formula for calculating the resonance frequency of the Quasi Lumped Element Resonator Antenna was expressed in this review. The equivalent circuit model for the lumped elements were all reviewed and presented. This review brings about how the lumped elements are involved in the design of the Quasi Lumped Element Resonator Antenna.
Processing of Orange-fleshed Sweet Potato Extract and Effect of Storage Conditions on Some Physicochemical Properties of Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato-based Drink Extract
Authors: Omodamiro R. M. , Ani J. C. , Emetole J. M.
Published: September 2019

The present study aims to find out the suitable storage condition of Orange-Fleshed Sweet potato (OFSP) beverage that will effectively retain the nutrient. Availability of OFSP may not necessarily translate to the bioavailability of the vitamin if the vitamin source is not optimally processed and utilized. Information about the processing and utilization of conventional white and pinkish-fleshed sweet potato, There is a paucity of information on the appropriate processing methods of OFSP and possible storage condition of such beverage. The drinks were analyzed for Total soluble solid (TSS), pH and Viscosity on the zero-day before storage. The total soluble solids (Brix) of the drink was measured with a digital refractometer (DR-122 Code No: 44-905, London). Based on the results of this study OFSP drink may be utilized and best consumed when freshly produced if there is a need to store at ambient (27ºC) conditions, it should not exceed 48hrs. If OFSP drink is stored under refrigerated (4-8ºC) condition, it should not exceed 7days to retain its nutritive and sensory attributes.
Transient Stability Improvement on Jos – Gombe 330kV Line Using Static Var Compensator
Authors: Udo Joseph F. , Aminu Maruf A.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the result of a study carried out to determine the impact of static VAr compensator on voltage profiles and reactive power flow in the Nigerian 330kV transmission grid network is presented. The research seeks to mitigate the challenge of high reactive power on Jos – Gombe 330kV single circuit transmission line. The high reactive power is produced in that axis as a result of low industrial demand in the North-Eastern region of Nigeria which results in low-inductive loading of the long transmission line that spans from Jos to Gombe and its extension to Yola, Damaturu and Maiduguri. The study also performed optimal placement of the static VAr compensator in the area where it can influence the voltage at the static VAr compensator device connection point by controlling the reactive power flow through the grid. This was accomplished by modeling the existing 330kV Nigerian network in DIgSILENT PowerFactory. The result is an improved power stability on the line between Jos and Gombe. The voltage tolerance with the approved Nigerian Grid Code and compliance was ensured. Also, the static VAr compensator was proposed over reactors due to the fact that it is dynamically switched.
Prevalence and Susceptibility Analysis of Gram Negative Pathogens in Super Specialty Tertiary Care Centers, Pune in India from January 2018- January 2019
Authors: Satras Kishor Babaji
Published: September 2019

Background and Objective: The encumbrance of antimicrobial resistance worldwide is substantive and likely to rise without any appropriate treatment which has enhanced the urge for the development of either new antibiotics or adjuvant therapy with antibiotics. Thus, we aimed to study a comparative antibiogram pattern of 758 clinical isolates collected from Pawana Hospital and Accord SDH, Pune (India), towards Elores (a novel antibiotic and adjutant entity of ceftriaxone, sulbactam and disodium edetate) and other antibiotics (imipenem, meropenem and piperacillin + tazobactam).

Methods: The clinical samples collected from outpatients and inpatients during a period of one year (January, 2018 to January, 2019), from Pawana Hospital and Accord SDH, Pune (India) and were further subjected to bacterial identification. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was executed in accordance with the recommendations of Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.

Results: Out of 758 collected samples, urine samples contributed 69.41 and 37.63% among Enterobacteriaceae and Non-Enterobacteriaceae followed by pus (20.25 and 19.35%) and sputum (4.2 and 19.89%) while <4% and <12% Enterobacteriaceae and Non-Enterobacteriaceae isolates were collected from rest of the specimen. E. coli were found most prevalent (50.13%) along with 19.13 and 16.09% prevalence of Pseudomonas spp. and Klebsiella spp. whereas rest of the pathogens were <7% present. The antibacterial activity of Elores (87.80%) was observed superior to carbapenem drugs (meropenem; 62.67% and imipenem; 60.95%) and far better to piperacillin + tazobactam (48.42%) against 758 clinical pathogens. Antibiogram profile depicted Elores as most susceptible (95.10%) drug towards Enterobacteriaceae isolates which was approximately 31-50% more sensitive than other test drugs. Similar pattern was obtained for Non-enterobacteriaceae isolates (62.90%) where Elores contributed approximately 1-5% higher activity. However, Elores also conquered 79.51-86.59% resistance among meropenem, imipenem and piperacillin + tazobactam resistant pathogens.

Conclusion: Susceptibility profile data revealed the equivalence of Elores (Antibiotic-adjuvant entity; AAE) with carbapenem drugs (meropenem and imipenem) and superiority over piperacillin + tazobactam against clinical pathogens. Elores was also found active towards meropenem, imipenem and piperacillin + tazobactam resistant pathogens. Therefore, Elores, a resistance breaker, can be used as an efficient treatment alternate towards infections caused by resistant pathogens.
Postdoctoral nursing researcher career: A scoping review of required competences
Authors: Numminen Olivia , Virtanen Heli , Hafsteinsdóttir Thóra , Leino‐Kilpi Helena ,   Nurse Lead Consortium
Published: September 2019

Aim

The aim of this review was to identify and summarize the required competences of nursing PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to pursue a successful researcher career and to compare these competences with the existing competence frameworks.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

PubMed, CINAHL, SocIndex, PsycInfo, Eric, EMBASE, Academic Search Premier and Scopus databases were searched from January 1990–December 2018. The guidelines of PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews and the scoping review framework by Arksey and O’Malley (2005, International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 19) were applied.

Results

Forty‐four studies were reviewed comprising 15 competence domains. Competences corroborated the competences defined in the competence frameworks. However, the qualitative and descriptive research designs rendered a modest level of evidence and generalizability.
Comprehensive Understanding of Bi‐functional Behavior of PNP‐Pincer Complexes Towards the Conversion of CO into Methanol and CO2: A DFT Approach
Authors: Ash Tamalika , Debnath Tanay , Das Abhijit K.
Published: September 2019

The conversion mechanisms of CO into methanol through hydrogenation and CO2 through hydrolysis catalyzed by (PNP)RuH2CO (1) pincer complex have been explored employing density functional theory (DFT). For both the reactions, we have identified two pathways. In pathway‐I, at first the CO takes part in the reaction by interacting with the Ru‐center of pincer complex and after that the H2/H2O molecule participates in the reaction, whereas in pathway‐II, the generation of hydrogenated/hydrolyzed pincer from initial pincer via the assistance of H2 or H2O molecule occurs first, followed by the reaction with CO. In case of hydrogenation, for both the pathways, CO is first converted to HCHO through hydrogenation which further undergoes hydrogenation to form methanol. In pathway‐I, the reaction of HCHO with H2 in presence of dehydrogenated pincer leads to produce methanol, whereas for pathway‐II the hydrogenated pincer formed at the beginning of this pathway carries out the aforementioned conversion. Further in presence of methanol, CO is catalytically converted to methyl formate. On the other hand, in case of hydrolysis, the conversion of CO to CO2 can be achieved in two ways, where 2nd step, i. e. formic acid to CO2 via formate ion formation follows similar mechanism for both the pathways. Overall, from our study it is revealed that the Ru‐pincer complex acts as a promising homogeneous catalyst for converting CO to various organic chemical commodities.
Health-related quality of life of carfilzomib- and daratumumab-based therapies in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, based on German benefit assessment data
Authors: Weisel Katja , Ludwig Heinz , Rieth Achim , Lebioda Andrea , Goldschmidt Hartmut
Published: September 2019

Background

Carfilzomib and daratumumab are licensed in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), but no head-to-head trials have been conducted.

Methods

We used data from dossiers prepared for the German Federal Joint Committee based on two phase III randomized trials of carfilzomib-based therapies (ASPIRE, ENDEAVOR) and two of daratumumab-based therapies (POLLUX, CASTOR) to conduct a descriptive assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL was assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer 30-item HRQoL Questionnaire, with hazard ratios calculated for carfilzomib- and daratumumab-based therapy versus comparators for time to HRQoL deterioration of ≥ 10 points. Analyses were also conducted on data from the EORTC 20-item myeloma-specific questionnaire, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity scale, and the visual analog scale of the EuroQoL 5-dimension, 5-level questionnaire, where results for these instruments were available. As the designs and patient population of the four trials were similar but not identical, the analysis included only indirect, descriptive comparisons.

Results

Compared with lenalidomide/dexamethasone, median time to deterioration in global health status/QoL was longer for carfilzomib-based therapy versus control, but similar for daratumumab-based therapy and control. Compared with bortezomib/dexamethasone, time to deterioration was significantly longer for carfilzomib-based therapy versus control for global health status/QoL and numerous functional and symptom subscales. HRQoL measurement is feasible in large RRMM populations.

Conclusion

Descriptive assessment of HRQoL data suggests potential benefits for carfilzomib-based over daratumumab-based therapy.
A Suitable procedure for preparing of water Samples used in Radiocarbon Intercomparison
Authors: Takahashi H A , Minami M , Aramaki T , Handa H , Saito-Kokubu Y , Itoh S , Kumamoto Y
Published: September 2019

We studied a suitable procedure for preparing of water samples used in radiocarbon intercomparisons involving dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). The water samples must have inter-batch consistency and stable 14C concentrations and no sterilizing agent (e.g., HgCl2) should be added, in order to avoid the production of hazardous material. Six water samples, containing widely different amounts and types of salts, DIC, and 14C concentrations (1–100 pMC), were prepared in order to assess the procedure. Sample consistency was investigated through δ13C and chemical compositions; their low variabilities indicate that our procedure can be applied to radiocarbon intercomparison. A specific sample preparation protocol was developed for this kind of applications.
Short-term consequences of F508del-CFTR thermal instability on CFTR-dependent transepithelial currents in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Froux Lionel , Coraux Christelle , Sage Edouard , Becq Frédéric
Published: September 2019

Loss-of-function mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) channel in human airway epithelial cells are responsible for Cystic Fibrosis. A deleterious impact of physiological temperature on CFTR plasma membrane expression, residence and channel activity is characteristic of the most common and severe CF mutation, F508del. Using primary human F508del-airway epithelial cells and CF bronchial epithelial CFBE41o- cell lines expressing F508del- or WT-CFTR, we examined the effects of temperature (29 °C-39 °C) on the amplitude and stability of short-circuit CFTR-dependent currents over time and the efficiency of pharmacological strategies to stably restore F508del-CFTR function. We show that F508del-CFTR functional instability at 37 °C is not prevented by low temperature or VX-809 correction, genistein and VX-770 potentiators, nor by the combination VX-809/VX-770. Moreover, F508del-CFTR-dependent currents 30 minutes after CFTR activation at 37 °C did not significantly differ whether a potentiator was used or not. We demonstrate that F508del-CFTR function loss is aggravated at temperatures above 37 °C while limited by a small decrease of temperature and show that the more F508del-CFTR is stimulated, the faster the current loss happens. Our study highlights the existence of a temperature-dependent process inhibiting the function of F508del-CFTR, possibly explaining the low efficacy of pharmacological drugs in clinic.
Olfactory receptor gene abundance in invasive breast carcinoma
Authors: Masjedi Shirin , Zwiebel Laurence J. , Giorgio Todd D.
Published: September 2019

Expression of olfactory receptors (ORs) has been reported in many human tissues outside the nasal epithelium. ORs have been validated as biomarkers in prostate cancer. In breast cancer, however, the expression and role of OR genes remain understudied. We examined the significance of OR transcript abundance in a large invasive breast carcinoma population and identified two OR genes, OR2W3 and OR2B6 to be potentially correlated to breast cancer progression. 960 breast invasive tumors and 56 human breast cancer cell lines were assessed for OR gene expression and 21 OR genes were highly abundant among 198 cases. Our transcriptome analysis discovered three significantly abundant OR genes among three sub-populations of invasive breast carcinoma patients. OR2W3 was correlated with invasion genes and basal-like subtype whereas OR2B6 was correlated with proliferation genes and luminal A subtype. Analyzing the OR gene upregulation among breast cancer cell lines showed that OR2B6 and OR2W3 were abundant similar to invasive breast tumors. Our study suggests that specific OR genes may be correlated with breast cancer characteristics, making ORs potential new diagnostic, and/or treatment markers. This study suggests future directions for the exploration of a role for ORs in the mechanisms of breast cancer proliferation and progression.
Two-electron oxygen reduction on fullerene C60-carbon nanotubes covalent hybrid as a metal-free electrocatalyst
Authors: Hasanzadeh Aliyeh , Khataee Alireza , Zarei Mahmoud , Zhang Yifeng
Published: September 2019

Nanocarbon materials are considered to be active for electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) synthesis. In the present work, a new type of fullerene 60 (C60)-carbon nanotubes (CNTs) hybrid with covalently attached C60 onto outer surface of CNTs was synthesized. The structure of C60-CNT hybrid was confirmed by physical and chemical characterizations and its conformation is proposed featuring the covalent incorporation of CNTs and C60 derivative. C60-CNT hybrid showed high efficiencies on electro-generating H2O2, owing to huge surface area and intermolecular electron-transfer in the hybrid structure. A high H2O2 production rate of 4834.57 mg L−1 h−1 (426.58 mmol L−1) was achieved at − 0.2 V vs saturated calomel electrode (SCE).
Genomic characterization of novel Neisseria species
Authors: Diallo Kanny , MacLennan Jenny , Harrison Odile B. , Msefula Chisomo , Sow Samba O. , Daugla Doumagoum M. , Johnson Errin , Trotter Caroline , MacLennan Calman A. , Parkhill Julian , Borrow Ray , Greenwood Brian M. , Maiden Martin C. J.
Published: September 2019

Of the ten human-restrictedNeisseriaspecies two,Neisseria meningitidis, andNeisseria gonorrhoeae, cause invasive disease: the other eight are carried asymptomatically in the pharynx, possibly modulating meningococcal and gonococcal infections. Consequently, characterizing their diversity is important for understanding the microbiome in health and disease. Whole genome sequences from 181Neisseriaisolates were examined, including those of three well-defined species (N. meningitidis; N. gonorrhoeae;andNeisseria polysaccharea) and genomes of isolates unassigned to any species (Nspp). Sequence analysis of ribosomal genes, and a set of core (cgMLST) genes were used to infer phylogenetic relationships. Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and phenotypic data were used to define species clusters, and morphological and metabolic differences among them. Phylogenetic analyses identified two polyphyletic clusters (N. polysacchareaandNspp.), while, cgMLST data groupedNsppisolates into nine clusters and identified at least threeN. polysacchareaclusters. ANI results classifiedNsppinto seven putative species, and also indicated at least three putativeN. polysacchareaspecies. Electron microscopy identified morphological differences among these species. This genomic approach provided a consistent methodology for species characterization using distinct phylogenetic clusters. Seven putative novelNeisseriaspecies were identified, confirming the importance of genomic studies in the characterization of the genusNeisseria.
Structural changes of a protein extract from apple with polyphenoloxidase activity obtained by cationic reversed micellar extraction induced by high-pressure carbon dioxide and thermosonication
Authors: Illera A. E. , Beltrán S. , Sanz M. T.
Published: September 2019

Polyphenoloxidase from apple was extracted and further concentrated by cationic reversed micellar extraction. Previous to reversed micellar extraction a crude protein extract was obtained using AG2-X8 as adsorbent of phenolic compounds and the detergent Triton X-100. Forward and backward extraction conditions were optimized by using dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide as surfactant in the organic phase. Optimization was carried out to obtain the highest value of PPO activity recovery and the purification fold at the different experimental conditions. Under the optimum extraction conditions, PPO activity recovery was 99% and purification fold reached a value of 17, showing that reversed micellar extraction was a good technique as a first step to concentrate on a targeted enzyme. After removing some impurities by centrifuge ultrafiltration, the protein extract with PPO activity was treated by pressurized carbon dioxide and thermosonication achieving residual PPO activity values of 16 ± 3 and 9 ± 1%, respectively. Quenching experiments by iodide performed in the non-treated extract and in the treated extracts revealed conformational changes of this protein fraction reflected in the greater exposure of the fluorophore to the quencher.
Concentration-Diversified Magnetic and Electronic Properties of Halogen-Adsorbed Silicene
Authors: Nguyen Duy Khanh , Tran Ngoc Thanh Thuy , Chiu Yu-Huang , Lin Ming-Fa
Published: September 2019

Diverse magnetic and electronic properties of halogen-adsorbed silicene are investigated by the first-principle theoretical framework, including the adatom-diversified geometric structures, atom-dominated energy bands, spatial spin density distributions, spatial charge density distributions and its variations, and orbital-projected density of states. Also, such physical quantities are sufficient to identify similar and different features in the double-side and single-side adsorptions. The former belongs to the concentration-depended finite gap semiconductors or p-type metals, while the latter display the valence energy bands with/without spin-splitting intersecting with the Fermi level. Both adsorption types show the halogen-related weakly dispersed bands at deep energies, the adatom-modified middle-energy σ bands, and the recovery of low-energy π bands during the decrease of the halogen concentrations. Such feature-rich band structures can be verified by the angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy experiment.
Microbiological evaluation of different hand drying methods for removing bacteria from washed hands
Authors: Suen Lorna K. P. , Lung Vanessa Y. T. , Boost Maureen V. , Au-Yeung Cypher H. , Siu Gilman K. H.
Published: September 2019

Proper drying of hands after washing is an integral part of hand hygiene. An experimental study on 30 subjects using multiple comparisons of six hand drying methods including 1) drying on own clothes, 2) drying with one paper towel, 3) drying with two paper towels, 4) drying with a warm air dryer while holding hands stationary for 20 s, 5) drying with a warm air dryer while hand rubbing for 20 s, and 6) drying with a jet air dryer until complete dryness was achieved. It aimed to determine the effectiveness of different hand drying methods for removing bacteria from washed hands, so as to identify the optimum method using minimum resources. Our study demonstrated that the use of jet air dryers is the best method to eliminate bacteria on hands, whereas drying hands on one’s own clothes is the least effective. Drying hands in a stationary position could remove more bacteria than rubbing hands when using a warm air dryer for 20 s, which mimics people’s usual hand-drying practice. No significant difference in bacteria reduction was detected between the use of one or two paper towels for hand drying; therefore, using fewer resources is recommended to maintain environmental sustainability.
Chrysin enhances anticancer drug-induced toxicity mediated by the reduction of claudin-1 and 11 expression in a spheroid culture model of lung squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Maruhashi Ryohei , Eguchi Hiroaki , Akizuki Risa , Hamada Shohei , Furuta Takumi , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Endo Satoshi , Ichihara Kenji , Ikari Akira
Published: September 2019

The aberrant expression of claudins (CLDNs), which are tight junctional proteins, is seen in various solid tumors, but the regulatory mechanisms and their pathophysiological role are not well understood. Both CLDN1 and CLDN11 were highly expressed in human lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Chrysin, found in high concentration in honey and propolis, decreased CLDN1 and CLDN11 expression in RERF-LC-AI cells derived from human lung SCC. The phosphorylation level of Akt was decreased by chrysin, but those of ERK1/2 and c-Jun were not. LY-294002, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and decreased the expression levels of CLDN1 and CLDN11. The association between phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1) and Akt was inhibited by chrysin, but the phosphorylation of PDK1 was not. Immunoprecipitation and quartz-crystal microbalance assays revealed that biotinylated-chrysin binds directly to Akt. The knockdown of CLDN1 and CLDN11 using small interfering RNAs increased the transepithelial flux of doxorubicin (DXR), an anthracycline anticancer drug. Similarly, both chrysin and LY-294002 increased DXR flux. Neither CLDN1 knockdown, CLDN11 knockdown, nor chrysin changed the anticancer drug-induced cytotoxicity in a two-dimensional culture model, whereas they enhanced cytotoxicity in a spheroid culture model. Taken together, chrysin may bind to Akt and inhibit its phosphorylation, resulting in the elevation of anticancer drug-induced toxicity mediated by reductions in CLDN1 and CLDN11 expression in RERF-LC-AI cells. We suggest that chrysin may be useful as an adjuvant chemotherapy in lung SCC.
Comparative transcriptomics between species attributes reactogenicity pathways induced by the capsular group B meningococcal vaccine, 4CMenB, to the membrane-bound endotoxin of its outer membrane vesicle component
Authors: Sheerin Dylan , O’Connor Daniel , Dold Christina , Clutterbuck Elizabeth , Attar Moustafa , Rollier Christine S. , Sadarangani Manish , Pollard Andrew J.
Published: September 2019

The capsular group B meningococcal (MenB) four component vaccine (4CMenB) has been licensed for the prevention of invasive disease caused by MenB. The vaccine causes fever in infants, particularly when given in combination (concomitant) with other routinely-administered vaccines (routine), such as the standard diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP)-containing vaccine. To assess the suitability of a mouse immunisation model to study this phenomenon, we monitored temperature in mice after a second dose of routine vaccines, with or without 4CMenB, and compared the results with those in humans. Using this mouse model, we explored the reactogenicity of 4CMenB components by measuring changes in temperature, cytokines, and gene expression induced by 4CMenB, one of its components, wild-type or attenuated endotoxin outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A significant rise (p < 0.01) in temperature was observed in mice immunised with 4CMenB, wild-type OMVs, and LPS. RNA-sequencing of mouse whole blood revealed a gene signature shared by the 4CMenB, OMV, and LPS groups consisting of bacterial pattern recognition receptors and neutrophil activation marker genes. Sequencing of neutrophils isolated after concomitant 4CMenB identified cells expressing the OMV-associated genes Plek and Lcp1. Immunisation with 4CMenB or OMVs led to increased IL-6 in serum and significant upregulation (p < 0.0001) of prostaglandin-synthesising enzymes on brain tissue. These data demonstrate the suitability of a mouse model for assessing vaccine reactogenicity and strongly indicate that the fever following vaccination with 4CMenB in human infants is induced by endotoxin contained in the OMV component of the vaccine.
Evaluation of physicochemical properties and volatile compounds of Chinese dried pork loin curing with plasma-treated water brine
Authors: Luo Ji , Yan Wenjing , Nasiru Mustapha Muhammad , Zhuang Hong , Zhou Guanghong , Zhang Jianhao
Published: September 2019

The application of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma (DBD-CP)-treated water as a novel curing process for manufacturing Chinese dried pork loin was investigated. The treatment time of DBD-CP was optimized based on the pH and nitrite level of the plasma-treated water (PTW). PTW treated for 3 min had an alkaline environment and a higher nitrite content than that at the other lengths of treatment time. Pork loins were marinated in control or PTW brine at 4 °C for 24 h and then dry-ripened for 15 days. PTW with a higher treatment voltage significantly decreased lipid oxidation of the products and led to an increased a* value (redness) and an increased residual nitrite content in products that was still within the range of use (all P < 0.05). The contents of each free amino acid increased with increasing treatment intensity (P < 0.05). There were 22 new volatile compounds generated in PTW-cured products, such as 3-methyl-butanol, hexanal and 2,3-octanedione, while six substances were lost, such as 2-pentylfuran, compared with those in the control. This study indicates that using PTW as a curing method can be a potential and effective way of producing dried pork meat products.
Pepsin Triggers Neutrophil Migration Across Acid Damaged Lung Epithelium
Authors: Hurley Bryan P. , Jugo Rebecca H. , Snow Ryan F. , Samuels Tina L. , Yonker Lael M. , Mou Hongmei , Johnston Nikki , Rosen Rachel
Published: September 2019

Pepsin represents a potential biomarker for extraesophageal reflux disease when detected in airways, however a direct role for pepsin in lung dysfunction has not been clearly established. Children experiencing gastroesophageal and extraesophageal reflux are often prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce gastric acid associated damage to esophageal and airway mucosa. The potential of pepsin and gastric fluid, from children that were either on or off PPI therapy, to cause inflammation and damage using a human in vitro co-culture model of the airway mucosa was evaluated herein. Exposure of the airway model to acidic solutions caused cellular damage and loss of viability, however, acid alone did not disrupt barrier integrity or instigate neutrophil trans-epithelial migration without pepsin. Gastric fluid from patients on PPI therapy exhibited only a slightly higher pH yet had significantly higher concentrations of pepsin and elicited more barrier disruption and neutrophil trans-epithelial migration compared to gastric fluid from patients off PPIs. Inflammatory and damaging responses observed with gastric fluid from patients on PPIs were largely driven by pepsin. These results indicate the potential for PPI usage to raise concentrations of pepsin in gastric fluid, which may enhance the pathological impact of micro-aspirations in children with extraesophageal reflux.
Hybrid nickel-free graphene/porphyrin rings for photodegradation of emerging pollutants in water
Authors: Ussia Martina , Urso Mario , Miritello Maria , Bruno Elena , Curcuruto Giusy , Vitalini Daniele , Condorelli Guglielmo G. , Cantarella Maria , Privitera Vittorio , Carroccio Sabrina C.
Published: September 2019

A novel hybrid photoactive material based on graphene foam (G) coupled with porphyrin-based polymers (Porph rings) was formulated by using a time-saving procedure to remove nickel from the final device.
Seasonal evaluation of heat pump system for building heating and ventilation – a case study
Authors: Bugaj Andrzej , Miniewicz Maciej
Published: September 2019

This paper presents results obtained from seasonal evaluation of ground source heat pump (GSHP) and exhaust air heat pump (EAHP) systems used for heating and ventilation of a school building. A Matlab simulation program was developed with models of the following elements: the building thermal performance, central heating and ventilation installations, the ground source heat pump with the ground source heat exchanger and exhaust air heat pumps in air handling units. The system based exclusively on the GSHP attaining all heating needs of the central heating and ventilation installations was compared with the combined system of the GSHP and the EAHP. The analysis was based on hourly calculations of all energy capacities and COPs as well as seasonal performance factors. In addition, the energy ratings in terms of seasonal usage of delivered, renewable, auxiliary and primary energy were performed. Those energy ratings enabled the estimation of seasonal CO2 emissions in all analysed systems. The combined application of the GSHP and the EAHP in the building gave the lowest values of primary energy consumption and CO2 emissions among all considered systems.
A new funding scheme for MSW management to support WtE program
Authors: Farizal  , Amalin Nadya , Rachman Amar
Published: September 2019

Among many approaches to manage municipal solid waste (MSW), waste to energy (WtE) program through running a landfill gas plant is believed the best way. It deals with waste and energy problems simultaneously. However, even though it offers inevitable benefits, in Indonesia WtE program implementation is stagnant. This study proposes an alternative funding scheme to run the program, i.e. based on resident participation. The study used willingness to pay from Contingent Valuation Method to disclose the participation level. For the purpose, a case study was taken place at City of Depok, West Java Province. The result reveals that the proposed funding scheme is an applicable way for the program. As much as 86% of Depok resident were willing to participate funding the project with the participation range of 20,000 to 200,000 IDR per month. The percentage is even higher, 88%, if there is an incentive such as electricity bill discount to the participants.
Removal of quaternary ammonium compounds in ion exchange process
Authors: Klimonda Aleksandra , Kowalska Izabela
Published: September 2019

The study attempted to evaluate the effectiveness of ion exchange process in cationic surfactant (benzalkonium chloride, BAC) removal from model solutions. Four commercial cation-exchange resins were chosen for the batch tests in four doses (2.5–20 mL L-1). The experiments included evaluation of the following parameters on ion exchange efficiency: resin characteristics and dose, presence of inorganic salt and pH of treated solution. The ion exchange process was found to be very effective in cationic surfactant removal – two of tested resins allowed to remove up to 80% of contaminant after contact time of 40 minutes, the last two – after 60 minutes of mixing in all range of doses. The presence of electrolyte neither pH change has no essential effect on surfactant removal efficiency. The analysis of the ion exchange isotherms showed that the strongly-acidic macroporous resin C150 H was characterized by the highest BAC ion exchange capacity (153.8 mg mL-1), while the weakly-acidic gel resin C104 showed the best affinity of the exchanged ions to the resin matrix.
Modern information and mathematical models in construction industry
Authors: Minaev V. A. , Pizengolts V. M. , Faddeev A. O. , Bystryakov A.Y. , Savenkova E.V. , Kruglikova E. V.
Published: September 2019

Building information modelling (BIM) – new technology of construction object information maintenance. It allows specifying influence of changes and risks made in it (including geodynamic) at all stages of lifecycle. Objects include products, building equipment, technological platform, the building, engineering, transportation networks and systems of building communication. The model expands possibilities of innovative technologies implementation, allowing creating reasoned economic decisions.
The modelling of power plant’s evaporative cooling tower operation taking into account hydrometeorological conditions
Authors: Solovyev Alexander , Solovyev Dmitriy , Shilova Liubov , Adamtsevich Aleksey
Published: September 2019

The paper aims to perform numerical modelling of the operation of large-scale evaporative cooling towers of power plants considering dynamically changing hydrometeorological conditions. The proposed modelling was performed based on the developed mathematical algorithm for studying the influence of turbulent vortex motions on the processes of atmospheric cooling of circulating water in countercurrent cooling towers of power plants. According to the simulation results, the optimal heat exchange modes of cooling towers operation are determined and recommendations for the practical implementation of measures to improve their thermal efficiency in hot periods of the year are proposed.