bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Maize MADS Transcription Factor ZmES22 Negatively Modulates Starch Accumulation in Rice Endosperm
Authors: Zha Kangyong , Xie Haoxun , Ge Min , Wang Zimeng , Wang Yu , Si Weina , Gu Longjiang
Published: January 2019

As major component in cereals grains, starch has been one of the most important carbohydrate consumed by a majority of world’s population. However, the molecular mechanism for regulation of biosynthesis of starch remains elusive. In the present study, ZmES22, encoding a MADS-type transcription factor, was modestly characterized from maize inbred line B73. ZmES22 exhibited high expression level in endosperm at 10 days after pollination (DAP) and peaked in endosperm at 20 DAP, indicating that ZmES22 was preferentially expressed in maize endosperm during active starch synthesis. Transient expression of ZmES22 in tobacco leaf revealed that ZmES22 protein located in nucleus. No transactivation activity could be detected for ZmES22 protein via yeast one-hybrid assay. Transformation of overexpressing plasmid 35S::ZmES22 into rice remarkedly reduced 1000-grain weight as well as the total starch content, while the soluble sugar was significantly higher in transgenic rice lines. Moreover, overexpressing ZmES22 reduced fractions of long branched starch. Scanning electron microscopy images of transverse sections of rice grains revealed that altered expression of ZmES22 also changed the morphology of starch granule from densely packed, polyhedral starch granules into loosely packed, spherical granules with larger spaces. Furthermore, RNA-seq results indicated that overexpressing ZmES22 could significantly influence mRNA expression levels of numerous key regulatory genes in starch synthesis pathway. Y1H assay illustrated that ZmES22 protein could bind to the promoter region of OsGIF1 and downregulate its mRNA expression during rice grain filling stages. These findings suggest that ZmES22 was a novel regulator during starch synthesis process in rice endosperm.
FKBP5 Gene Expression Predicts Antidepressant Treatment Outcome in Depression
Authors: Ising Marcus , Maccarrone Giuseppina , Brückl Tanja , Scheuer Sandra , Hennings Johannes , Holsboer Florian , Turck Christoph W. , Uhr Manfred , Lucae Susanne
Published: January 2019

Adverse experiences and chronic stress are well-known risk factors for the development of major depression, and an impaired stress response regulation is frequently observed in acute depression. Impaired glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signalling plays an important role in these alterations, and a restoration of GR signalling appears to be a prerequisite of successful antidepressant treatment. Variants in genes of the stress response regulation contribute to the vulnerability to depression in traumatized subjects. Consistent findings point to an important role of FKBP5, the gene expressing FK506-binding protein 51 (FKBP51), which is a strong inhibitor of the GR, and thus, an important regulator of the stress response. We investigated the role of FKBP5 and FKB51 expression with respect to stress response regulation and antidepressant treatment outcome in depressed patients. This study included 297 inpatients, who participated in the Munich Antidepressant Response Signature (MARS) project and were treated for acute depression. In this open-label study, patients received antidepressant treatment according to the attending doctor’s choice. In addition to the FKBP5 genotype, changes in blood FKBP51 expression during antidepressant treatment were analyzed using RT-PCR and ZeptoMARKTM reverse phase protein microarray (RPPM). Stress response regulation was evaluated in a subgroup of patients using the combined dexamethasone (dex)/corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) test. As expected, increased FKBP51 expression was associated with an impaired stress response regulation at baseline and after six weeks was accompanied by an elevated cortisol response to the combined dex/CRH test. Further, we demonstrated an active involvement of FKBP51 in antidepressant treatment outcome. While patients responding to antidepressant treatment had a pronounced reduction of FKBP5 gene and FKBP51 protein expression, increasing expression levels were observed in nonresponders. This effect was moderated by the genotype of the FKBP5 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1360780, with carriers of the minor allele showing the most pronounced association. Our findings demonstrate that FKBP5 and, specifically, its expression product FKBP51 are important modulators of antidepressant treatment outcome, pointing to a new, promising target for future antidepressant drug development.
Nitric Oxide and the Neuroendocrine Control of the Osmotic Stress Response in Teleosts
Authors: Cioni Carla , Angiulli Elisa , Toni Mattia
Published: January 2019

The involvement of nitric oxide (NO) in the modulation of teleost osmoresponsive circuits is suggested by the facts that NO synthase enzymes are expressed in the neurosecretory systems and may be regulated by osmotic stimuli. The present paper is an overview on the research suggesting a role for NO in the central modulation of hormone release in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial and the caudal neurosecretory systems of teleosts during the osmotic stress response. Active NOS enzymes are constitutively expressed by the magnocellular and parvocellular hypophysiotropic neurons and the caudal neurosecretory neurons of teleosts. Moreover, their expression may be regulated in response to the osmotic challenge. Available data suggests that the regulatory role of NO appeared early during vertebrate phylogeny and the neuroendocrine modulation by NO is conservative. Nonetheless, NO seems to have opposite effects in fish compared to mammals. Indeed, NO exerts excitatory effects on the electrical activity of the caudal neurosecretory neurons, influencing the amount of peptides released from the urophysis, while it inhibits hormone release from the magnocellular neurons in mammals.
Kaempferol Attenuates LPS-Induced Striatum Injury in Mice Involving Anti-Neuroinflammation, Maintaining BBB Integrity, and Down-Regulating the HMGB1/TLR4 Pathway
Authors: Yang Ying-Lin , Cheng Xiao , Li Wei-Han , Liu Man , Wang Yue-Hua , Du Guan-Hua
Published: January 2019

Neuroinflammation has been demonstrated to be linked with Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease, and cerebral ischemia. Our previous investigation had identified that kaempferol (KAE) exerted protective effects on cortex neuron injured by LPS. In this study, the effects and possible mechanism of KAE on striatal dopaminergic neurons induced by LPS in mice were further investigated. The results showed that KAE improved striatal neuron injury, and increased the levels of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) in the striatum of mice. In addition, KAE inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), reduced the level of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the striatum tissues. Furthermore, KAE protected blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and suppressed the activation of the HMGB1/TLR4 inflammatory pathway induced by LPS in striatum tissues of mice. In conclusion, these results suggest that KAE may have neuroprotective effects against striatum injury that is induced by LPS and the possible mechanisms are involved in anti-neuroinflammation, maintaining BBB integrity, and down-regulating the HMGB1/TLR4 pathway.
mTOR Inhibitors in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancers
Authors: Wu Chao-En , Chen Ming-Huang , Yeh Chun-Nan
Published: January 2019

Patients with advanced biliary tract cancers (BTCs), including cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), have poor prognosis so novel treatment is warranted for advanced BTC. In current review, we discuss the limitations of current treatment in BTC, the importance of mTOR signalling in BTC, and the possible role of mTOR inhibitors as a future treatment in BTC. Chemotherapy with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy is still the standard of care and no targeted therapy has been established in advanced BTC. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway linking to several other pathways and networks regulates cancer proliferation and progression. Emerging evidences reveal mTOR activation is associated with tumorigenesis and drug-resistance in BTC. Rapalogs, such as sirolimus and everolimus, partially inhibit mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and exhibit anti-cancer activity in vitro and in vivo in BTC. Rapalogs in clinical trials demonstrate some activity in patients with advanced BTC. New-generation mTOR inhibitors against ATP-binding pocket inhibit both TORC1 and TORC2 and demonstrate more potent anti-tumor effects in vitro and in vivo, however, prospective clinical trials are warranted to prove its efficacy in patients with advanced BTC.
Knowledge about Neonatal Screening among Postpartum Women and Complexity Level of Birthing Facilities
Authors: Guimarães Mariana F. , Rabelo Fernanda A. , Figueiredo Israel
Published: January 2019

Background: To ascertain the degree of knowledge of postpartum women about important aspects related to the neonatal screening process and whether differences of opinion exist between those who deliver in low-complexity versus high-complexity health facilities (low-risk versus high-risk pregnancies, respectively). Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study. The sample consisted of postpartum women recruited from 2013 to 2015 at public maternity hospitals in the city of Niterói, Brazil. Participants were divided into two groups and completed a questionnaire consisting of Likert-scored items. Continuous variables were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney test, and categorical variables, with Fisher’s test. A confirmatory factor analysis of participants’ answers was performed. Results: Of 188 women enrolled, 54 (28.7%) had incomplete elementary education; 119 (62.2%) had attended more than six antenatal care visits. The mean age was 25.57 years. Nearly all women (n = 179, 95.2%) were roomed-in with their infants. Knowledge of neonatal screening was very similar in the high-complexity and low-complexity groups. Divergences were limited to items regarding the risks of neonatal screening. Conclusions: The degree of knowledge among postpartum women was similar among high- and low-complexity facilities. Those who attended high-complexity facilities had longer hospital stays and greater adherence to ethical issues regarding neonatal screening.
Building a Newborn Screening Information Management System from Theory to Practice
Authors: Pluscauskas Michael , Henderson Matthew , Milburn Jennifer , Chakraborty Pranesh
Published: January 2019

Information Management Systems are the central process management and communication hub for many newborn screening programs. In late 2014, Newborn Screening Ontario (NSO) undertook an end to end assessment of its information management needs which resulted in a project to develop a flexible IS Information Systems (IS) ecosystem and related process changes. This enabled NSO to better manage its current and future work-flows and communication needs. An idealized vision of a Screening Information Management System (SIMS) was developed that was refined into enterprise and functional architectures. This was followed by the development of technical specifications, user requirements and procurement. In undertaking a holistic full product lifecycle redesign approach, a number of change management challenges were faced by NSO across the entire program. Strong leadership support and full program engagement are key for overall project success. It is anticipated that improvements in program flexibility and the ability to innovate will outweigh the efforts and costs.
Elevated Serum Melatonin under Constant Darkness Enhances Neural Repair in Spinal Cord Injury through Regulation of Circadian Clock Proteins Expression
Authors: Hong Yunkyung , Jin Yunho , Park Kanghui , Choi Jeonghyun , Kang Hyunbon , Lee Sang-Rae , Hong Yonggeun
Published: January 2019

We investigated the effects of environmental lighting conditions regulating endogenous melatonin production on neural repair, following experimental spinal cord injury (SCI). Rats were divided into three groups randomly: the SCI + L/D (12/12-h light/dark), SCI + LL (24-h constant light), and SCI + DD (24-h constant dark) groups. Controlled light/dark cycle was pre-applied 2 weeks before induction of spinal cord injury. There was a significant increase in motor recovery as well as body weight from postoperative day (POD) 7 under constant darkness. However, spontaneous elevation of endogenous melatonin in cerebrospinal fluid was seen at POD 3 in all of the SCI rats, which was enhanced in SCI + DD group. Augmented melatonin concentration under constant dark condition resulted in facilitation of neuronal differentiation as well as inhibition of primary cell death. In the rostrocaudal region, elevated endogenous melatonin concentration promoted neural remodeling in acute phase including oligodendrogenesis, excitatory synaptic formation, and axonal outgrowth. The changes were mediated via NAS-TrkB-AKT/ERK signal transduction co-regulated by the circadian clock mechanism, leading to rapid motor recovery. In contrast, exposure to constant light exacerbated the inflammatory responses and neuroglial loss. These results suggest that light/dark control in the acute phase might be a considerable environmental factor for a favorable prognosis after SCI.
4D Printing: The Shape-Morphing in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Piedade Ana P.
Published: January 2019

3D printing of polymers can now be considered as a common processing technology for the development of biomaterials. These can be constituted out of polymeric abiotic material alone or can be co-printed with living cells. However, the adaptive and shape-morphing characteristics cannot be developed with the rigid, pre-determined structures obtained by 3D printing. In order to produce functional engineered biomaterials, the dynamic properties/characteristics of the living cells must be attained. 4D printing can be envisaged as a route to achieve these goals. This paper intends to give a brief review of the pioneer 4D printing research that has been developed and to present an insight into future research in this field.
The Synovium Theory: Can Exercise Prevent Knee Osteoarthritis? The Role of “Mechanokines”, A Possible Biological Key
Authors: Di Rosa Michelino , Castrogiovanni Paola , Musumeci Giuseppe
Published: January 2019

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease widespread in the world, having a negative impact on daily activities, especially in old age [...]
Understanding Vasomotion of Lung Microcirculation by In Vivo Imaging
Authors: Mazzuca Enrico , Aliverti Andrea , Miserocchi Giuseppe
Published: January 2019

The balance of lung extravascular water depends upon the control of blood flow in the alveolar distribution vessels that feed downstream two districts placed in parallel, the corner vessels and the alveolar septal network. The occurrence of an edemagenic condition appears critical as an increase in extravascular water endangers the thinness of the air–blood barrier, thus negatively affecting the diffusive capacity of the lung. We exposed anesthetized rabbits to an edemagenic factor (12% hypoxia) for 120 min and followed by in vivo imaging the micro-vascular morphology through a “pleural window” using a stereo microscope at a magnification of 15× (resolution of 7.2 μm). We measured the change in diameter of distribution vessels (50–200 μm) and corner vessels (<50 μm). On average, hypoxia caused a significant decrease in diameter of both smaller distribution vessels (about ~50%) and corner vessels (about ~25%) at 30 min. After 120 min, reperfusion occurred. Regional differences in perivascular interstitial volume were observed and could be correlated with differences in blood flow control. To understand such difference, we modelled imaged alveolar capillary units, obtained by Voronoi method, integrating microvascular pressure parameters with capillary filtration. Results of the analysis suggested that at 120 min, alveolar blood flow was diverted to the corner vessels in larger alveoli, which were found also to undergo a greater filtration indicating greater proneness to develop lung edema.
Application of Carbon Dioxide Snow in Machining of CGI using an Additively Manufactured Turning Tool
Authors: Heep Thomas , Bickert Christian , Abele Eberhard
Published: January 2019

The application of conventional cooling lubricants for the tribological conditioning of machining processes involves high additional costs and health risks. The application of a cryogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) snow cooling strategy is an economical and environmentally sound alternative for oily cooling emulsions since it has a high cooling effect as well as a residue-free sublimation. This article introduces a laser additive manufactured tool holder with an integrated dual nozzle which enables CO2-snow jet application. Initially this work focuses on the characterization and the selection of a suitable nozzle geometry. The modular tool body features an adapted channel structure for process-reliable and targeted CO2-snow cooling for turning processes. This enables the simultaneous cooling of the rake and flank face with CO2-snow, as well as the application of cryogenic multi-component cooling of the rake face. In the context of this study, the focus lies on the technological evaluation of three different supply strategies during the continuous turning of compacted graphite iron CGI-450 at increased cutting speed. It was established that an efficient rake face cooling is indispensable to achieve a low thermal tool load, and thus lower crater wear behavior. Therefore, this study contributes to an improvement in cryogenic machining processes regarding the design of additively manufactured tool bodies for process-reliable CO2-snow cooling, as well as for the selection of supply strategies to minimize the thermomechanical tool load.
An Approach for Predicting the Specific Fuel Consumption of Dual-Fuel Two-Stroke Marine Engines
Authors: Marques Crístofer H. , Caprace Jean-D. , Belchior Carlos R. P. , Martini Alberto
Published: January 2019

Increasing environmental demands, alongside the planned penetration of natural gas as marine fuel, have rendered dual-fuel engines as an attractive prime mover alternative. In this context, knowing the specific fuel consumption is essential to selecting the most efficient engine. The specific fuel consumption can be approached by simulation models with varying levels of complexity that are either implemented by basic programming languages or simulated by dedicated packages. This study aims to develop a simplified model to predict the specific fuel consumption of dual-fuel two-stroke marine engines driving fixed or controllable pitch propellers. The model relies on clear trends approachable by polynomials that were revealed by normalizing specific fuel consumption. This model requires only the value of specific fuel consumption at a nominal maximum continuous rating to predict the engine consumption at any specified rating, including at partial engine load. The outcome of the study shows that the maximum deviations regarding the two simulated engines did not exceed −3.6%. In summary, the proposed model is a fast and effective tool for optimizing the selection of dual-fuel, two-stroke Diesel engines regarding fuel consumption.
Brevetoxin-Producing Spherical Cells Present in Karenia brevis Bloom: Evidence of Morphological Plasticity?
Authors: Novoveská Lucie , Robertson Alison
Published: January 2019

Spherical cells were detected in low salinity waters during a bloom of Karenia brevis in Alabama coastal waters. These balls resembled K. brevis in size and organelle appearance, contained similar concentration of brevetoxin, and occurred during ongoing K. brevis bloom. Based on the environmental conditions in which these cells were observed, we speculate that a rapid drop in salinity triggered the sphere formation in K. brevis. Brevetoxin concentrations were comparable between surface water samples containing typical and atypical cells ranging from 1 to 10 ng/mL brevetoxin-3 equivalents. Accurate identification and quantification of cell abundance in the water column is essential for routine monitoring of coastal waters, so misidentification of these spherical cells may result in significant underestimation of cell densities, and consequently, brevetoxin level. These potential discrepancies may negatively impact the quality of regulatory decisions and their impact on shellfish harvest area closures. We demonstrate that traditional monitoring based on microscopy alone is not sufficient for brevetoxin detection, and supporting toxin data is necessary to evaluate potential risk.
The Beginning of Systems Chemistry
Authors: Strazewski Peter
Published: January 2019

Systems Chemistry has its roots in the research on the autocatalytic self-replication of biological macromolecules, first of all of synthetic deoxyribonucleic acids. A personal tour through the early works of the founder of Systems Chemistry, and of his first followers, recalls what’s most important in this new era of chemistry: the growth and evolution of compartmented macromolecular populations, when provided with “food” and “fuel” and disposed of “waste”.
Effects of Pre-Stretching on Creep Behavior, Mechanical Property and Microstructure in Creep Aging of Al-Cu-Li Alloy
Authors: Zhang Jin , Jiang Zhen , Xu Fushun , Chen Mingan
Published: January 2019

The effects of pre-stretching on creep behavior, mechanical properties and microstructure during the creep aging process of Al-Cu-Li alloy were investigated. AA2195 was taken as the representative of Al-Cu-Li alloys. It is found that the total creep strain and strength property of creep aged AA2195 specimens can be improved through effective pre-stretching. Unlike with artificial aging, yield strength increased increasing by 47%. The TEM images show that the constitution of aging precipitates in the creep-aged specimens are obviously changed by pre-stretching. Precipitates in the 2% pre-stretched specimen are mainly composed of T1 phase, while a great amount of θ’ phase accompanied with a few T1 phase were found in the non-pre-stretched specimen. Moreover, pre-stretching introduces many dislocations which benefit the creep deformation, but the increasing dislocation density also accelerates the nucleation and growth of the precipitates as well. The premature T1 phase has a great blocking effect to the dislocation motion, creating a lower decrease rate but a longer duration in the early creep stage. Except for the initial dislocations, the dislocation motion in the creep aging process is also a favorable factor to precipitate the T1 phase.
Preparation of FeOOH/Cu with High Catalytic Activity for Degradation of Organic Dyes
Authors: Zhang Yingzhe , Liu Junfeng , Chen Ding , Qin Qingdong , Wu Yujiao , Huang Fang , Li Wei
Published: January 2019

In this study, high-frequency electromagnetic-assisted ball-milling was used to prepare FeOOH/Cu catalyst. The combined effect of the high-frequency electromagnetic field and ball-milling resulted in the complete conversion of raw materials into FeOOH/Cu nanomagnetic hybrid at ~40 °C in only 30 h. Experiments showed that Rhodamine B was completely degraded within only 3 min, which was much faster than with previously reported catalysts. The combination effect of ball milling and microwave afforded excellent catalytic activity. Furthermore, the produced catalyst could be recovered easily using an external magnetic field for reuse. The influence of pH on the catalytic activity for degrading Rhodamine B, Phenol Red, Methyl Orange, and Methylene Blue were also investigated; Rhodamine B was completely degraded at pH 9 within only 2 min.
Influence of Steel Plates and Studs on Shrinkage Behavior and Cracking Potential of High-Performance Concrete
Authors: Huang Lepeng , Hua Jianmin , Kang Ming , Luo Qiming , Zhou Fengbin
Published: January 2019

To help designers develop solutions to overcome the cracking problem in steel-plate-reinforced concrete composite shear walls due to the concrete shrinkage, the influence of steel plates and studs on the shrinkage behavior of high-performance concrete (HPC), including restrained shrinkage strain, shrinkage strain gradient, and cracking potential, were theoretically and experimentally investigated in this study. A model for theoretical analysis was used to research the shrinkage performance of concrete that was restrained by steel plates and studs. The major parameters involved in the experiments include the thickness and material elastic modulus of the steel plate, in addition to the diameter, height, and number of studs. It was found that the shrinkage of HPC decreases and its potential cracking increases with the increase of thickness and elastic modulus of the steel plate, and the diameter, height, and number of studs. The restraining effect of the steel plate and stud on the HPC shrinkage decreases with the distance of their respective locations. It demonstrates that the HPC near a steel plate and stud is prone to crack compared with that far away from the steel plate and stud. This potential could be reduced by uniformly restraining the HPC.
Butanol Synthesis Routes for Biofuel Production: Trends and Perspectives
Authors: Kolesinska Beata , Fraczyk Justyna , Binczarski Michal , Modelska Magdalena , Berlowska Joanna , Dziugan Piotr , Antolak Hubert , Kaminski Zbigniew J. , Witonska Izabela A. , Kregiel Dorota
Published: January 2019

Butanol has similar characteristics to gasoline, and could provide an alternative oxygenate to ethanol in blended fuels. Butanol can be produced either via the biotechnological route, using microorganisms such as clostridia, or by the chemical route, using petroleum. Recently, interest has grown in the possibility of catalytic coupling of bioethanol into butanol over various heterogenic systems. This reaction has great potential, and could be a step towards overcoming the disadvantages of bioethanol as a sustainable transportation fuel. This paper summarizes the latest research on butanol synthesis for the production of biofuels in different biotechnological and chemical ways; it also compares potentialities and limitations of these strategies.
Development of an Intra-Layer Adaptive Toolpath Generation Control Procedure in the Laser Metal Wire Deposition Process
Authors: Garmendia Iker , Pujana Joseba , Lamikiz Aitzol , Flores Jon , Madarieta Mikel
Published: January 2019

Recently developed concentric laser metal wire deposition (LMWD) heads allow metal addition processes which are independent of the deposition direction, thus enabling complex paths to be generated. The sensitivity of the process to height deviations has experimentally been observed to be greater with this type of head than with powder ones, therefore requiring more precise and local process control algorithms to be implemented. This work developed a methodology for measuring the part, layer by layer, using a 3D scanner based on structured laser light. Height corrections were applied to the mean and intra-layer height deviations by recalculating the deposition trajectories of the next layer to be deposited. Local height deviations were adjusted by varying the scanning speed, thus increasing the feed rate in the lower areas and decreasing it in the higher ones. Defects generated in the purpose, with height differences within the layer, were successfully corrected. A flat layer was re-established through the application of the control strategy. The internal integrity of the parts due to the scanning speed variation was analyzed, resulting in fully dense parts. The structured light measurement and height correction systems are found to be an affordable and time-efficient solution that can be integrated into an LMWD environment, thereby improving the process robustness.
Functional Chitosan Derivative and Chitin as Decolorization Materials for Methylene Blue and Methyl Orange from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Labidi Abdelkader , Salaberria Asier M. , Fernandes Susana C. M. , Labidi Jalel , Abderrabba Manef
Published: January 2019

Dyes are classified as one of the major pollutants of water. They have negative impacts not only on environment but also on human health. In fact, wastewater that contains these harmful substances requires many types of treatments. Therefore, alternative methods and adsorption agents are needed. Herein, we propose to evaluate the decolorization of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) as two models of soluble dyes from water using chitin and chitosan-graft-polyacrylamide. Furthermore, the applicability of these biomacromolecules as alternative adsorption agents, their sticking probability and desorption were also examined. Experimental parameters such as dye concentration, contact time, pH solution, adsorbent dosage and temperature were thoroughly examined for the grafted chitosan and chitin. The activation energy ( E a ) and the thermodynamic variables (i.e., standard Gibb’s free energy ( Δ G 0 ), standard enthalpy ( Δ H 0 ), and standard entropy ( Δ S 0 )) were determined using the Van’t Hoff and Arrhenius equations. The sticking probability ( S *) model for MB and MO removal by chitin and the chitosan derivative demonstrated that both dyes were successfully removed under the proposed conditions. Desorption studies of MB and MO showed the reusability of both materials, suggesting their application for removing dyes from aqueous solution.
A Literature Review Study on Atomic Ions Dissolution of Titanium and Its Alloys in Implant Dentistry
Authors: Noumbissi Sammy , Scarano Antonio , Gupta Saurabh
Published: January 2019

This review of literature paper was done in order to conduct a review of the literature and an assessment of the effects of titanium implant corrosion on peri-implant health and success in the oral environment. This paper evaluates and critically reviews the findings of the multiple in-depth in vivo and in vitro studies that are related to corrosion aspects of the titanium and its alloys. A literature survey was conducted by electronic search in Medline and studies that were published between 1940 and August 2018 were selected. The search terms used were types of corrosion, corrosion of titanium implants, titanium corrosion, metal ion release from the titanium implants, fretting and pitting corrosion, implant corrosion, peri implantitis, and corrosion. Both in vivo and in vitro studies were also included in the review. The search and selection resulted in 64 articles. These articles were divided on the basis of their context to different kinds of corrosion related to titanium dental implants. It is evident that metal ions are released from titanium and titanium alloy dental implants as a result of corrosion. Corrosion of implants is multifactorial, including electrical, chemical, and mechanical factors, which have an effect on the peri-implant tissues and microbiota. The literature surveyed showed that corrosion related to titanium and its alloys has an effect on the health of peri-implant soft and hard tissue and the long term survival of metal dental implants. It can be concluded that presence of the long-term corrosion reaction along with continuous corrosion leads to the release of ions into the peri-implant tissue but also to a disintegration of the implant that contribute to material fatigue and even fracture of the abutments and implant body or both. This combined impact of the corrosion, bacterial activity, chemical reactions, and functional stresses are to be looked at as important factors of implant failure. The findings can be used to explore the possible strategies of research to investigate the biological impact of implant materials.
Modified Relaxed CQ Iterative Algorithms for the Split Feasibility Problem
Authors: Wang Xinglong , Zhao Jing , Hou Dingfang
Published: January 2019

The split feasibility problem models inverse problems arising from phase retrievals problems and intensity-modulated radiation therapy. For solving the split feasibility problem, Xu proposed a relaxed CQ algorithm that only involves projections onto half-spaces. In this paper, we use the dual variable to propose a new relaxed CQ iterative algorithm that generalizes Xu’s relaxed CQ algorithm in real Hilbert spaces. By using projections onto half-spaces instead of those onto closed convex sets, the proposed algorithm is implementable. Moreover, we present modified relaxed CQ algorithm with viscosity approximation method. Under suitable conditions, global weak and strong convergence of the proposed algorithms are proved. Some numerical experiments are also presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms. Our results improve and extend the corresponding results of Xu and some others.
Change of Basis Transformation from the Bernstein Polynomials to the Chebyshev Polynomials of the Fourth Kind
Authors: Rababah Abedallah , Hijazi Esraa
Published: January 2019

In this paper, the change of bases transformations between the Bernstein polynomial basis and the Chebyshev polynomial basis of the fourth kind are studied and the matrices of transformation among these bases are constructed. Some examples are given.
Some φ-Fixed Point Results for (F,φ,α-ψ)-Contractive Type Mappings with Applications
Authors: Imdad Mohammad , Khan Abdur Rauf , Saleh Hayel N. , Alfaqih Waleed M.
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we introduce the notions of (F, φ, α- ψ)-contractions and (F, φ, α- ψ)-weak contractions in metric spaces and utilize the same to prove some existence and uniqueness φ-fixed point results. Some illustrative examples are given to demonstrate the usefulness and effectiveness of our results. As applications, we deduce some fixed point theorems in partial metric spaces besides proving an existence result on the solution of nonlinear differential equations. Our results extend, generalize and improve some relevant results of the existing literature.
Strong Convergence of a New Iterative Algorithm for Split Monotone Variational Inclusion Problems
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Yuan Qing
Published: January 2019

The main aim of this work is to introduce an implicit general iterative method for approximating a solution of a split variational inclusion problem with a hierarchical optimization problem constraint for a countable family of mappings, which are nonexpansive, in the setting of infinite dimensional Hilbert spaces. Convergence theorem of the sequences generated in our proposed implicit algorithm is obtained under some weak assumptions.
Ginsenoside Rg3: Potential Molecular Targets and Therapeutic Indication in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Nakhjavani Maryam , Hardingham Jennifer E , Palethorpe Helen M , Tomita Yoko , Smith Eric , Price Tim J , Townsend Amanda R
Published: January 2019

Breast cancer is still one of the most prevalent cancers and a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The key challenge with cancer treatment is the choice of the best therapeutic agents with the least possible toxicities on the patient. Recently, attention has been drawn to herbal compounds, in particular ginsenosides, extracted from the root of the Ginseng plant. In various studies, significant anti-cancer properties of ginsenosides have been reported in different cancers. The mode of action of ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) in in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models and its value as an anti-cancer treatment for breast cancer will be reviewed.
Integrated FISH, Karyotyping and aCGH Analyses for Effective Prenatal Diagnosis of Common Aneuploidies and Other Cytogenomic Abnormalities
Authors: Chai Hongyan , DiAdamo Autumn , Grommisch Brittany , Boyle Jennifer , Amato Katherine , Wang Dongmei , Wen Jiadi , Li Peining
Published: January 2019

Current prenatal genetic evaluation showed a significantly increase in non-invasive screening and the reduction of invasive diagnostic procedures. To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy on detecting common aneuploidies, structural chromosomal rearrangements, and pathogenic copy number variants (pCNV), we performed a retrospective analysis on a case series initially analyzed by aneuvysion fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and karyotyping then followed by array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). Of the 386 cases retrieved from the past decade, common aneuploidies were detected in 137 cases (35.5%), other chromosomal structural rearrangements were detected in four cases (1%), and pCNV were detected in five cases (1.3%). The relative frequencies for common aneuploidies suggested an under detection of sex chromosome aneuploidies. Approximately 9.5% of cases with common aneuploidies showed a mosaic pattern. Inconsistent results between FISH and karyotyping were noted in cases with pseudo-mosaicism introduced by culture artifact or variable cellular proliferation from cells with mosaic karyotypic complements under in vitro cell culture. Based on findings from this case series, cell-based FISH and karyotyping should be performed to detect common aneuploidies, structural chromosomal abnormalities, and mosaic pattern. DNA-based aCGH and reflex FISH should be performed to detect and confirm genomic imbalances and pCNV. Practice points to ensure the diagnostic accuracy and efficacy were summarized.
Architectural Organization of Dinoflagellate Liquid Crystalline Chromosomes
Authors: Wong Joseph Tin Yum
Published: January 2019

Dinoflagellates have some of the largest genome sizes, but lack architectural nucleosomes. Their liquid crystalline chromosomes (LCCs) are the only non-architectural protein-mediated chromosome packaging systems, having high degrees of DNA superhelicity, liquid crystalline condensation and high levels of chromosomal divalent cations. Recent observations on the reversible decompaction–recompaction of higher-order structures implicated that LCCs are composed of superhelical modules (SPMs) comprising highly supercoiled DNA. Orientated polarizing light photomicrography suggested the presence of three compartments with different packaging DNA density in LCCs. Recent and previous biophysical data suggest that LCCs are composed of: (a) the highly birefringent inner core compartment (i) with a high-density columnar-hexagonal mesophase (CH-m); (b) the lower-density core surface compartment (ii.1) consisting of a spiraling chromonema; (c) the birefringent-negative periphery compartment (ii.2) comprising peripheral chromosomal loops. C(ii.1) and C(ii.2) are in dynamic equilibrium, and can merge into a single compartment during dinomitosis, regulated through multiphasic reversible soft-matter phase transitions.
Influence of Six Carbon-Based Nanomaterials on the Rheological Properties of Nanofluids
Authors: Vallejo Javier P. , Żyła Gaweł , Fernández-Seara José , Lugo Luis
Published: January 2019

Nanofluids, dispersions of nanosized solid particles in liquids, have been conceived as thermally-improved heat transfer fluids from their conception. More recently, they have also been considered as alternative working fluids to improve the performance of direct absorption solar thermal collectors, even at low nanoadditive concentrations. Carbon-based nanomaterials have been breaking ground in both applications as nanoadditives during the last decade due to their high thermal conductivities and the huge transformation of optical properties that their addition involves. In any application field, rheological behavior became a central concern because of its implications in the pumping power consumption. In this work, the rheological behavior of four different loaded dispersions (0.25, 0.50, 1.0, and 2.0 wt%) of six carbon-based nanomaterials (carbon black, two different phase content nanodiamonds, two different purity graphite/diamond mixtures, and sulfonic acid-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets) in ethylene glycol:water mixture 50:50 vol% have been analysed. For this purpose, a rotational rheometer with double cone geometry was employed, which included a special cover to avoid mass losses due to evaporation at elevated temperatures. The flow curves of the twenty-four nanofluids and the base fluid were obtained by varying the shear rate between 1 and 1000 s−1 for seven different temperatures in the range from 283.15 to 353.15 K. The shear-thinning behaviors identified, as well as their dependences on carbon-based nanomaterial, concentration, and temperature, were analyzed. In addition, oscillatory tests were performed for samples with the clearest Non-Newtonian response, varying the deformation from 0.1 to 1000% with constant frequency and temperature. The dependence of the behaviors identified on the employed carbon-based nanomaterial was described.
Diet and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children. Is the Focus on Food Exaggerated?
Authors: Fifi Amanda C. , Saps Miguel
Published: January 2019

Almost all children (93%) who consult for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) report food intolerances [...]
Multi-Spectral Quantum Cascade Lasers on Silicon With Integrated Multiplexers
Authors: Stanton Eric , Spott Alexander , Peters Jon , Davenport Michael , Malik Aditya , Volet Nicolas , Liu Junqian , Merritt Charles , Vurgaftman Igor , Kim Chul , Meyer Jerry , Bowers John
Published: January 2019

Multi-spectral midwave-infrared (mid-IR) lasers are demonstrated by directly bonding quantum cascade epitaxial gain layers to silicon-on-insulator (SOI) waveguides with arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) multiplexers. Arrays of distributed feedback (DFB) and distributed Bragg-reflection (DBR) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) emitting at ∼4.7 µm wavelength are coupled to AWGs on the same chip. Low-loss spectral beam combining allows for brightness scaling by coupling the light generated by multiple input QCLs into the fundamental mode of a single output waveguide. Promising results are demonstrated and further improvements are in progress. This device can lead to compact and sensitive chemical detection systems using absorption spectroscopy across a broad spectral range in the mid-IR as well as a high-brightness multi-spectral source for power scaling.
Application of Data Mining in an Intelligent Early Warning System for Rock Bursts
Authors: Zhu Xuejun , Jin Xiaona , Jia Dongdong , Sun Naiwei , Wang Pu
Published: January 2019

In view of rock burst accidents frequently occurring, a basic framework for an intelligent early warning system for rock bursts (IEWSRB) is constructed based on several big data technologies in the computer industry, including data mining, databases and data warehouses. Then, a data warehouse is modeled with regard to monitoring the data of rock bursts, and the effective application of data mining technology in this system is discussed in detail. Furthermore, we focus on the K-means clustering algorithm, and a data visualization interface based on the Browser/Server (B/S) mode is developed, which is mainly based on the Java language, supplemented by Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), JavaScript and HyperText Markup Language (HTML), with Tomcat, as the server and Mysql as the JavaWeb project of the rock burst monitoring data warehouse. The application of data mining technology in IEWSRB can improve the existing rock burst monitoring system and enhance the prediction. It can also realize real-time queries and the analysis of monitoring data through browsers, which is very convenient. Hence, it can make important contributions to the safe and efficient production of coal mines and the sustainable development of the coal economy.
Unexpected Emails to Submit Your Work: Spam or Legitimate Offers? The Implications for Novice English L2 Writers
Authors: Soler Josep , Cooper Andrew
Published: January 2019

This article analyzes the discourse of what have been termed ‘predatory publishers’, with a corpus of emails sent to scholars by hitherto unknown publishers. Equipped with sociolinguistic and discourse analytic tools, we argue that the interpretation of these texts as spam or as legitimate messages may not be as straightforward an operation as one may initially believe. We suggest that English L2 scholars might potentially be more affected by publishers who engage in these email practices in several ways, which we identify and discuss. However, we argue that examining academic inequalities in scholarly publishing based exclusively on the native/non-native English speaker divide might not be sufficient, nor may it be enough to simply raise awareness about such publishers. Instead, we argue in favor of a more sociologically informed analysis of academic publishing, something that we see as a necessary first step if we wish to enhance more democratic means of access to key resources in publishing.
The Place and Face of the Stranger in Levinas
Authors: Saldukaitytė Jolanta
Published: January 2019

This essay addresses the topic of place, more specifically it raises the question how and why place is essential for defining the strangeness of the other person. In Levinas’ philosophy the Other as stranger is the one whom I welcome to my home and country, i.e., to my place. This essay takes up three interrelated topics: (1) the general notion of place; (2) the ethical notion of place in Levinas’ philosophy, contrasted with an ontological notion of place. The deepest significance and virtue of place appears not in my dwelling or my compatibility with being but at the site from which the I is able to welcome the Other. Furthermore, the “ownness” of my place is always contested by the stranger as I have no necessity, no ultimate right to be; (3) the strangeness of the Other in Levinas’ philosophy defined not by topology but by vulnerability. To welcome the stranger and give up my place comes from my infinite responsibility for the Other. On the ethical level, the vulnerable face of the Other cannot be objectified and classified.
Jacques Derrida: The Double Liminality of a Philosophical Marrano
Authors: Kutash Emilie
Published: January 2019

There is an analogy between two types of liminality: the geographic or cultural ‘outside’ space of the Marrano Jew, alienated from his/her original religion and the one he or she has been forced to adopt, and, a philosophical position that is outside of both Athens and Jerusalem. Derrida finds and re-finds ‘h’ors- texte’, an ‘internal desert’, a ‘secret’ outside place: alien to both the western philosophical tradition and the Hebraic archive. In this liminal space he questions the otherness of the French language to which he was acculturated, and, in a turn to a less discursive modality, autobiography, finds, in the words of Helene Cixous, “the Jew-who-doesn’t know-that-he-is”. Derrida’s galut (exile) is neither Hebrew nor Greek. It is a private place outside of all discourse, which he claims, is inevitably ethnocentric. In inhabiting this outside space, he exercises the prerogative of a Marrano, equipped to critique the French language of his acculturation and the western philosophy of the scholars. French and Hebrew are irreconcilable binaries, western philosophy and his Hebrew legacy is as well. These issues will be discussed in this paper with reference to Monolingualism of the Other and Archive Fever as they augment some of his earlier work, Writing and Difference and Speech and Phenomena.