bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of sex in particle‐induced inflammation and injury
Authors: Ray Jessica L. , Fletcher Paige , Burmeister Rachel , Holian Andrij 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe use of engineered nanomaterials within various applications such as medicine, electronics, and cosmetics has been steadily increasing; therefore, the rate of occupational and environmental exposures has also increased. Inhalation is an important route of exposure to nanomaterials and has been shown to cause various respiratory diseases in animal models. Human lung disease frequently presents with a sex/gender‐bias in prevalence or severity, but investigation of potential sex‐differences in the adverse health outcomes associated with nanoparticle inhalation is greatly lacking. Only ~20% of basic research in the general sciences use both male and female animals and a substantial percentage of these do not address differences between sexes within their analyses. This has prevented researchers from fully understanding the impact of sex‐based variables on health and disease, particularly the pathologies resulting from the inhalation of particles. The mechanisms responsible for sex‐differences in respiratory disease remain unclear, but could be related to a number of variables including sex‐differences in hormone signaling, lung physiology, or respiratory immune function. By incorporating sex‐based analysis into respiratory nanotoxicology and utilizing human data from other relevant particles (e.g., asbestos, silica, particulate matter), we can improve our understanding of sex as a biological variable in nanoparticle exposures.This article is categorized under:
Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
Retrospective qualitative pilot study incorporating patients’ personal life aspects on admission to palliative care
Authors: Kitta Anna , Adamidis Feroniki , Unseld Matthias , Watzke Herbert H. , Masel Eva Katharina 
Published: October 2019

SummaryBackgroundThis pilot study examined which of a patient’s personal aspects should be taken into account in a hospital setting on admission to the palliative care unit (PCU) by asking patients the question “what should I know about you as a person to help me take the best care of you that I can?”MethodsThis retrospective study used qualitative methodology to thematically analyze answers from 14 patients admitted to the PCU of the Medical University of Vienna during July and August 2018. The question “what should I know about you as a person to help me take the best care of you that I can?” was asked on the day of admission, notes were taken during the interview and the patient’s answers were written out immediately afterwards. Data were analyzed using NVivo 12.ResultsResults revealed four topics: characterization of one’s personality, important activities, social bonding, and present and future concerns regarding the patient’s illness. Data showed that this question enabled patients to describe themselves and what was important to them. This might result in an improved sense of self-esteem in patients and represents an opportunity for professionals to treat patients in a more individualized manner; however, patient reactions also revealed a reluctance to address certain personal issues within a medical context.ConclusionThe study results provide insights into the benefits of paying more attention to personal life aspects of severely ill patients on admission to a PCU. Addressing individual aspects of patients’ lives might improve the healthcare professional-patient relationship.
HapticSnakes: multi-haptic feedback wearable robots for immersive virtual reality
Authors: Al-Sada Mohammed , Jiang Keren , Ranade Shubhankar , Kalkattawi Mohammed , Nakajima Tatsuo 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Haptic feedback plays a large role in enhancing immersion and presence in VR. However, previous research and commercial products have limitations in terms of variety and locations of delivered feedbacks. To address these challenges, we present HapticSnakes, which are snake-like waist-worn robots that can deliver multiple types of feedback in various body locations, including taps-, gestures-, airflow-, brushing- and gripper-based feedbacks. We developed two robots, one is lightweight and suitable for taps and gestures, while the other is capable of multiple types of feedback. We presented a design space based on our implementations and conducted two evaluations. Since taps are versatile, easy to deliver and largely unexplored, our first evaluation focused on distinguishability of tap strengths and locations on the front and back torso. Participants had highest accuracy in distinguishing feedback on the uppermost regions and had superior overall accuracy in distinguishing feedback strengths over locations. Our second user study investigated HapticSnakes’ ability to deliver multiple feedback types within VR experiences, as well as users’ impressions of wearing our robots and receiving novel feedback in VR. The results indicate that participants had distinct preferences for feedbacks and were in favor of using our robots throughout. Based on the results of our evaluations, we extract design considerations and discuss research challenges and opportunities for developing multi-haptic feedback robots.
A population-specific material model for sagittal craniosynostosis to predict surgical shape outcomes
Authors: Borghi Alessandro , Rodriguez Florez Naiara , Ruggiero Federica , James Greg , O’Hara Justine , Ong Juling , Jeelani Owase , Dunaway David , Schievano Silvia 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Sagittal craniosynostosis consists of premature fusion (ossification) of the sagittal suture during infancy, resulting in head deformity and brain growth restriction. Spring-assisted cranioplasty (SAC) entails skull incisions to free the fused suture and insertion of two springs (metallic distractors) to promote cranial reshaping. Although safe and effective, SAC outcomes remain uncertain. We aimed hereby to obtain and validate a skull material model for SAC outcome prediction. Computed tomography data relative to 18 patients were processed to simulate surgical cuts and spring location. A rescaling model for age matching was created using retrospective data and validated. Design of experiments was used to assess the effect of different material property parameters on the model output. Subsequent material optimization—using retrospective clinical spring measurements—was performed for nine patients. A population-derived material model was obtained and applied to the whole population. Results showed that bone Young’s modulus and relaxation modulus had the largest effect on the model predictions: the use of the population-derived material model had a negligible effect on improving the prediction of on-table opening while significantly improved the prediction of spring kinematics at follow-up. The model was validated using on-table 3D scans for nine patients: the predicted head shape approximated within 2 mm the 3D scan model in 80% of the surface points, in 8 out of 9 patients. The accuracy and reliability of the developed computational model of SAC were increased using population data: this tool is now ready for prospective clinical application.
Fabrication process parameters significantly affect the perovskite oxygen carriers materials (OCM) performance in chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling (CLOU)
Authors: Larring Yngve , Pishahang Mehdi , Tolchard Julian , Lind Anna M. , Sunding Martin F. , Stensrød Ruth E. , Jacobs Marijke , Snijkers Frans , van der Kolk Tjalling , Albertsen Knuth 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The CLOU performance of the CaTixMn0.9−xMg0.1O3 (CMTM) perovskite-type system was investigated, comparing materials produced at laboratory scale with those made at industrial ton scale. The CLOU and conversion performances were studied by a micropacked bed reactor, and crystalline phase structure and homogeneity and bulk density identified as the most important parameters affecting the performance of the OCM. Bulk density is correlated with the sintering temperature, atmosphere and time at sintering temperature, while phase homogeneity is a function of the raw materials chosen, agglomeration method and sintering procedure. Specific challenges are identified in the control of slurry homogeneity and sintering conditions in upscaled production. The degree of sintering affects the chemo-mechanical properties of the material (crushing strength and attrition index), physical properties (specific surface area), and more importantly the crystalline phases formed and their homogeneity: the quantity of “active” crystalline phases present directly determines the thermochemical conversion properties (i.e., CLOU capacity and methane conversion), oxygen transfer capacity and kinetics.

Graphic abstract
The fabrication parameters of the otherwise same ingredients result in quite different morphology and quality of performance in large scale.
Promoter activity of earthworm metallothionein in mouse embryonic fibroblasts
Authors: Drechsel Victoria , Fiechtner Birgit , Höckner Martina 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The regulation of metallothionein (MT) gene expression as important part of the detoxification machinery is only scarcely known in invertebrates. In vertebrates, MT gene activation is mediated by the metal-transcription factor 1 (MTF-1) binding to metal response elements (MREs). In invertebrates, the mechanisms of MT gene activation seems to be more diverse. In some invertebrate species, MTF-1 orthologues as well as their ability to activate MT genes via MREs have been uncovered. Although earthworm MTs have been well studied, a MTF-1 orthologue has not yet been described and MT gene activation mechanisms are largely unknown. Analyses of the earthworm wMT2 promoter by reporter gene assays have been performed. We could show that the wMT2 promoter was active in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) as well as in mouse MTF-1−/−cells (DKO7). The presence of mouse MTF-1 (mMTF1) led to a significant increase in reporter gene activity. We observed that cadmium as well as zinc had an effect on promoter activity. In the presence of zinc, promoter activity doubled in NIH cells, however, we did not observe a significant effect in the DKO7 cell line. Cadmium decreased promoter activity in DKO7 cells, but this effect could be reversed by providing mMTF1 in a co-transfection experiment. We suggest that MT gene expression in the earthworm is not entirely dependent on a MRE binding protein. Interestingly, the shortest promoter fragment including MRE1 showed the highest promoter activity under control conditions.
Treatment of By-Products Generated from Anaerobic Digestion of Municipal Solid Waste
Authors: Seruga Przemysław , Krzywonos Małgorzata , Wilk Marta 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to examine the possibilities of the treatment of the by-products generated in the anaerobic digestion (AD) of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW): oxygen stabilization (composting) of the solid digestate and pretreatment with air stripping of the effluents (liquid digestate and leachate from maturation field and reactors from composting).

Methods
Oxygen stabilization (OS) was performed in full-scale in a mechanical–biological treatment (MBT) plant using three different methods, using an open field or enclosed box reactor with aeration. The ammonia stripping was performed in a pilot-scale installation using effluents from AD (liquid digestate) and OS (leachate from maturation field and reactors).

Results
The lowest self-heating possibility after the OS was recorded at 28.5 °C, which proves that the most stabilized was the sample after processing with structuring material addition. Due to air stripping, the highest efficiency of ammonium ions removal was noted at the level of 50.6%, with an initial pH value of 10.5, after 12 h. Among the examined factors pH value was found to be significant [the determination coefficient (R2) of 0.93].

Conclusions
The oxygen stabilization of the digestate requires the structuring material addition before being placed in the reactor with aeration. The inert fraction from the ballistic separation of the OFMSW can be an interesting solution, as required structuring material. Air stripping as the effluents pre-treatment step can meet the MBT plants expectations.

Graphic Abstract
A Modified Technique of Temporomandibular Joint Arthroscopic Operative Surgery of the Superior and Inferior Joint Spaces
Authors: Rosenbrg I. , Goss A. N. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Purpose
This paper describes in detail the first author's technique of performing arthroscopic surgery in both the superior and inferior joint spaces of the temporomandibular joint.

Methods
The key is careful measurement of sagittal and coronal tomograms to determine the individual size and shape of the joint. The joint is then distracted to allow 3-port video arthroscopy.

Results
The detailed steps in the procedure are described and illustrated.

Conclusion
This modified technique is safe and allows procedures in both joint spaces and surgical access to the fossa, condyle and disc.
Effectiveness of the dispersion of iron nanoparticles within micropores and mesopores of activated carbon for Rhodamine B removal in wastewater by the heterogeneous Fenton process
Authors: Briton Bi Gouessé Henri , Duclaux Laurent , Richardson Yohan , Yao Kouassi Benjamin , Reinert Laurence , Soneda Yasushi 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Iron-based nanoparticles were formed in the pores of a micro- and mesoporous activated carbon made from banana spike by the impregnation of iron sulfate at various ratios and further pyrolysis, in order to prepare three catalysts AC@Fe/1, AC@Fe/2, AC@Fe/3 having iron mass contents of 1.6%, 2.2% and 3.3%, respectively. The pore size distributions, transmission electron microscope observations and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses have revealed that iron-based nanoparticles of 1–50 nm diameter, containing O and P, are located mainly in the supermicropores and mesopores of the activated carbon. Catalysts have been used to remove Rhodamine B in an aqueous solution by the heterogeneous Fenton process. AC@Fe/3 catalyst has allowed achieving 93% of solution discoloration compared to 87.4% for AC@Fe/2 and 78.5% for AC@Fe/1 after 180 min in batch reaction. The catalytic efficiency of AC@Fe/3 is attributed to the highest dispersion of the iron-based nanoparticles in the activated carbon porosity. The effects of hydrogen peroxide and initial dye concentration, pH, catalyst amount and temperature on the Rhodamine B removal kinetics catalyzed by AC@Fe/3 were studied. This catalyst showed remarkable performances of the Rhodamine B mineralization and possibility of recycling.
Study of Utilization of Embedded Metal Nanoparticles in Dielectric Thin Film for Humidity Sensing
Authors: El-Khozondar Hala J. , Mohammed Waleed S. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThis paper presents a theoretical study of the utilization of the shift in the reflection peak of the thin dielectric film with embedded metal nanoparticles (NPs) towards humidity and vapor applications. The presence of the NPs in the film results in a complex effective index. Hence, the reflected light at the superstrate-film interface causes a phase shift when the index of the surrounding is changed. This alters the reflected spectrum of the formed Fabry-Perot, for both the reflection peak wavelength and intensity. Here, the dynamic range of the proposed sensor is optimized through the variation of the film thickness and nanoparticle metal type, as well as the volume fraction.
Commercial and household food waste separation behaviour and the role of Local Authority: a case study
Authors: Jamal Mamun , Szefler Aleksandra , Kelly Colman , Bond Nicholas 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Purpose
Source segregation of food waste is one of the major challenges that inhibit food waste recycling around the world. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the role of the local authority to implement regulations and encourage an increase in the source separation of food waste within both commercial premises and households, and identifying any gaps that exist in public awareness.

Methods
This study was conducted by the Cork County Council in 568 commercial premises and 1362 houses in County Cork, Ireland. This study also included investigations of public and private civic amenity sites and waste collectors that collect kerb side waste located within the region. The interviewee’s responses were documented and a database has been prepared and analysed.

Results
Integrated strategy is crucial to roll out food waste bin within a community for successful implementation of source segregation of food waste. This strategy should involve a dedicated team from the local authority who continue to visit, monitor and co-ordinate the activities of local authorities, waste collectors, civic amenity sites and public to implement and enforce the food waste regulations. In addition to organising appropriate infrastructure for recycling of food waste, continuous awareness raising through education, leaflets and local and national media is also crucial.

Conclusion
The role of local authorities should include facilitating the development of appropriate facilities such as composting, anaerobic digestion within communities and to encourage communities to take ownership of these facilities and reuse the resultant material within the local area.
Design of biogas digester with thermophilic pretreatment for reducing fruits wastes
Authors: Rahmat Budy , Hodiyah Ida , Supriadi Apip , Hikmat Memet , Purnama Gilang 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to design a biogas digester that works thermophilically and mesophilically and tested its performance to produce biogas and digestate.

Methods
This study used some experimental methods, which consists of: (1) design and construction process of the digester which can facilitate the thermophilic process as a pretreatment of the feedstock and the anaerobic digestion process of the substrate; (2) determination of the quantity of biogas, liquid digestate, and compost; and (3) testing digestate quality as a liquid organic fertilizer for Ipomoea reptans.

Results
The built biogas digester was able to accommodate thermophilic digestion that runs intensely in the pretreatment tank, where the complex organic compounds, namely cellulose and hemicellulose, decomposed intensively, so that it becomes a suitable substrate. As raw material, every 4 kg of banana waste, can produce biogas, digestate and dry compost of 10,200 cm3 (highest yield), 5900 mL, and 1420 g, respectively. The highest Ipomoea reptans growth was achieved by digestate treatment from banana waste.

Conclusions
Thermophilic pretreatment could shorten the processing time to 3 days. Digestate treatment as a liquid organic fertilizer is able to provide a better supply of nutrients for plants.
Growth performance of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) under application of food waste compost and Fe3O4 nanoparticle treatment
Authors: bin Shuhaimi Syahnaz Ad-Din Naquib , Kanakaraju Devagi , Nori Hollena 
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Purpose
Utilization of food waste as composting materials offers a sustainable solution to manage waste and reduce reliance on fertilizers.

Method
This study is focused on the efficiency of food waste compost and the effect of the addition of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles on the growth and heavy metals uptake by roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) for the cultivation period of 127 days. Five different treatments were applied, namely soil (S), food waste compost (F), a mixture of soil and Fe3O4 (SM), a mixture of soil and food waste compost (SF), and a mixture of soil, food waste compost, and Fe3O4 (SFM).

Results
After 127 days of cultivation, the plant height averaged at 803 mm with 26 leaves produced across all treatments. Total leaf area, fruit production, and biomass yield were different (P < 0.05) among the treatments. Roselle crops grown under soil and food waste (SF) media produced the highest yield (12.15 g/plant), the most number of fruits (11 fruits/plant), and the highest leaf area (1200 cm2/plant). The accumulation of heavy metals in plant tissues was lower than the toxicity levels. There was no difference in the heavy metal content in all growing media, except for Ni, Mn, and Pb. Roselle crops applied with Fe3O4 showed no difference (P > 0.05) from its control (without Fe3O4) in relation to growth performance.

Conclusion
The findings of this study showed that food waste can be applied in composting to promote plant growth. Therefore, it can be considered as a substitute for chemical fertilizers. Meanwhile, the application of Fe3O4 appeared to be experimental-condition dependent.
Asymmetrical atrophy of thalamic subnuclei in Alzheimer's disease and amyloid‐positive mild cognitive impairment is associated with key clinical features
Authors: Low Audrey , Mak Elijah , Malpetti Maura , Chouliaras Leonidas , Nicastro Nicolas , Su Li , Holland Negin , Rittman Timothy , Rodríguez Patricia Vázquez , Passamonti Luca , Bevan‐Jones W Richard , Jones PP Simon , Rowe James B. , O'Brien John T. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractIntroductionAlthough widespread cortical asymmetries have been identified in Alzheimer's disease (AD), thalamic asymmetries and their relevance to clinical severity in AD remain unclear.MethodsLateralization indices were computed for individual thalamic subnuclei of 65 participants (33 healthy controls, 14 amyloid‐positive patients with mild cognitive impairment, and 18 patients with AD dementia). We compared lateralization indices across diagnostic groups and correlated them with clinical measures.ResultsAlthough overall asymmetry of the thalamus did not differ between groups, greater leftward lateralization of atrophy in the ventral nuclei was demonstrated in AD, compared with controls and amyloid‐positive mild cognitive impairment. Increased posterior ventrolateral and ventromedial nuclei asymmetry were associated with worse cognitive dysfunction, informant‐reported neuropsychiatric symptoms, and functional ability.DiscussionLeftward ventral thalamic atrophy was associated with disease severity in AD. Our findings suggest the clinically relevant involvement of thalamic nuclei in the pathophysiology of AD.