bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
اثر إدارة التنوع المنظمي في تحقيق النجاح ( دراسة استطلاعية في وزارة الصناعة والمعادن )
Authors: حسين قيس ابراهيم , تويه عباس احمد
Published: October 2019

يهدف البحث الى بيان اثر إدارة التنوع المنظمي في تحقيق النجاح ، وتتمثل مشكلة البحث بخلق بيئة عمل ملائمة يتحفز بها كل فرد بغض النظر عن كل بعد من ابعاد التنوع ، وذلك للوصول الى افضل مستويات النجاح ،تتمثل أهمية البحث بالتعرف على قدرة المنظمة المبحوثة بإدارة التنوع المنظمي بفاعلية ، تم الاعتماد على فرضيتين رئيسيتين تفرعت عنها فرضيات فرعية لمعرفة علاقات الارتباط والتأثير بين متغيرات البحث عن طريق تحليل إجابات عينة الدراسة التي شملت (81) موظف وموظفة من العاملين في وزارة الصناعة والمعادن في بغداد ، تم جمع البيانات والمعلومات باستعمال الاستبانة والمقابلات الشخصية والمعايشة الميدانية ، تم تحليل البيانات بأستعمال البرامج الاحصائي (spss) ومجموعة من الأساليب الإحصائية ، كالوسط الحسابي ، الانحراف المعياري ، معامل الارتباط (بيرسون ) ، معامل الانحدار الخطي البسيط ، وكانت ابرز الاستنتاجات التي توصلت اليها البحث وجود علاقة ارتباط وإثر ذات دلالة معنوية بين إدارة التنوع المنظمي والنجاح .
Evaluation of Traveling Parameters in Parallel Long-Distance Public Transport
Authors: Lakatos András , Mándoki Péter
Published: October 2019

The ongoing competition between bus and railway systems in Hungarian long-distance public transport is a current problem. Long term sustainability and efficiency in passenger transport require a balanced transport policy. These subsectors need to complement each other, not compete. The parallel bus and railway links, which are present in most relations of Hungary, can result in a competition. This research analyze traveling parameters (distance and time) in case of parallel long-distance transport systems and evaluate them with a mathematical method for long term environmental and economic sustainability optimization. This investigation's hypothesis is to define difference segments of optimization gear to travel time and travel distance.
Exploring paramedic communication and emotional expression in the workplace after responding to emergency calls
Authors: Drewitz-Chesney Cheryl
Published: October 2019

IntroductionParamedics are at risk of developing mental distress and disorders when exposed to traumatic calls. Several studies demonstrate that when individuals are exposed to a traumatic event, there is a correlation between a lack of social support and emotional expression, and the development of disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Unfortunately, little is known about the social support that paramedics receive from their peers, particularly in the workplace after responding to traumatic calls.Methods The study aim was to learn about peer communication and emotional expression between paramedics in the workplace, after they respond to calls. This qualitative study was guided by constructivist, grounded theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight paramedics who worked for British Columbia Emergency Health Services in Canada. ResultsTwo components of communication were described by participants: the content and logistics of peer communication. Content comprised of three types of peer communication: positive, negative and neutral, with the latter two potentially harmful to paramedics. Logistically, participants desired time to speak privately in the ambulance after calls, preferably with their regular partner or a peer with traits easing communication. These traits were identified as being comfortable with, trusting, sharing similarities and knowing one’s partner. ConclusionEmployers should facilitate positive peer communication among paramedics while considering the communication preferences described in this study. This could help to reduce rates of mental distress and disorders in paramedics.
Aleksandr Matveev 1926–2010
Authors: Saarikivi Janne
Published: October 2019

Nekrolog Aleksandr Matveev 1926–2010
Experimental Study to Support Local Sunflower Oil Chains: Production of Cold Pressed Oil in Central Italy
Authors: Foppa Pedretti Ester , Del Gatto Andrea , Pieri Sandro , Mangoni Lorella , Ilari Alessio , Mancini Manuela , Feliciangeli Gabriele , Leoni Elena , Toscano Giuseppe , Duca Daniele
Published: October 2019

Sunflower is one of the most important oilseed crops cultivated in the world for different purposes. In Italy, the production is mostly located in the central area, representing 70% of Italian production. The market demand for sunflower oil is higher than the national production. There is an increasing request for cold pressed sunflower oil for food application. The success of this activity is linked to a correct setting up and management of the production and supply chain with a valorization of products and by-products. To this aim, information is needed, and this paper is focused on the cultivation of sunflower in central Italy using suitable hybrids, as well as on the study of the cold extraction performance of the sunflower seed produced and the quality of by-products and residues. Results indicate that, on average, a range of about 1.0–1.5 t ha−1 of cold pressed oil and different amounts of by-products can be obtained. According to a proposed scenario, 30 ha cultivated with sunflower are needed to create a complete supply chain within the farm, avoiding many additional passages and maintaining all the value for the farmer. It is important to use suitable hybrids for obtaining good yield, but also the cold extraction performances are important because they also affect the quality of by-products and residues that can be valorized themselves to improve sustainability.
Impact of Plant Density and Mepiquat Chloride on Growth, Yield, and Silymarin Content of Silybum marianum Grown under Mediterranean Semi-Arid Conditions
Authors: Arampatzis Dimitrios A. , Karkanis Anestis C. , Tsiropoulos Nikolaos G.
Published: October 2019

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.) is a promising new crop in the Mediterranean region. Its seeds contain silymarin, a complex of flavonolignans, which is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, mainly to produce dietary supplements. To meet the increasing demand for milk thistle, the production and productivity of milk thistle should also be optimized by employing adequate cultivation practices. In the present study, a two-year field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of plant density and a plant growth regulator on milk thistle crop growth, seed yield, and silymarin accumulation under Mediterranean semi-arid conditions. Our results showed that plant density had a significant impact on milk thistle crop growth and seed yield. The main crop characteristics, such as height, aboveground biomass, and seed yield were greatest when plant density was the highest. Increased plant density significantly reduced the silymarin content only in 2018. In contrast, mepiquat chloride (MC) treatment did not affect the following traits: plant biomass, relative chlorophyll content, silymarin content, and production. Nevertheless, mepiquat chloride reduced the plant height by 7.9–14.8%, depending on the application rates and growth conditions. Moreover, the impact of climatic conditions on milk thistle production and quality was significant, since the lowest values of silymarin content and seed yield were recorded in the year with drought conditions during the period from March to May.
Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Barley at Negative Water Potentials
Authors: Springer Tim L. , Mornhinweg Dolores W.
Published: October 2019

The impacts of climate change may increase the duration and frequency of droughts, which would have deleterious effects on crop establishment. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of moisture stress on seed germination and seedling growth of six winter barley (Hordeum vulgare) lines and discuss how the data are used to select plant materials for rapid germination. Twenty-five seeds of each line were germinated in water of potentials of −2.0, −1.6, −1.2, −0.8, −0.4, and 0 MPa for 4- and 7-days. The experimental design was a factorial arrangement of treatments (barley lines and water potential treatments) in a randomized block replicated four times and repeated twice. The 4- and 7-day percentage seed germination varied with line (p < 0.01), water potential treatment (p < 0.01), and line × treatment interactions (p < 0.01). The seed germination rate varied with water potential treatment (p < 0.01), and line × treatment interactions (p < 0.01). The data indicated that enough variation was present to effectively select and breed cultivars for improved germination at a negative water potential. Studying seed germination under moisture stress is the first step for developing an effected selection pressure for identifying plant materials with rapid seed germination.
Automatic Classification of Chickpea Varieties Using Computer Vision Techniques
Authors: Pourdarbani Razieh , Sabzi Sajad , García-Amicis Víctor Manuel , García-Mateos Ginés , Molina-Martínez José Miguel , Ruiz-Canales Antonio
Published: October 2019

There are about 90 different varieties of chickpeas around the world. In Iran, where this study takes place, there are five species that are the most popular (Adel, Arman, Azad, Bevanij and Hashem), with different properties and prices. However, distinguishing them manually is difficult because they have very similar morphological characteristics. In this research, two different computer vision methods for the classification of the variety of chickpeas are proposed and compared. The images were captured with an industrial camera in Kermanshah, Iran. The first method is based on color and texture features extraction, followed by a selection of the most effective features, and classification with a hybrid of artificial neural networks and particle swarm optimization (ANN-PSO). The second method is not based on an explicit extraction of features; instead, image patches (RGB pixel values) are directly used as input for a three-layered backpropagation ANN. The first method achieved a correct classification rate (CCR) of 97.0%, while the second approach achieved a CCR of 99.3%. These results prove that visual classification of fruit varieties in agriculture can be done in a very precise way using a suitable method. Although both techniques are feasible, the second method is generic and more easily applicable to other types of crops, since it is not based on a set of given features.
Assessing Forms of Application of Azospirillum brasilense Associated with Silicon Use on Wheat
Authors: Galindo Fernando Shintate , Rodrigues Willian Lima , Biagini Antônio Leonardo Campos , Fernandes Guilherme Carlos , Baratella Eduardo Bianchi , da Silva Junior Castro Alves , Buzetti Salatiér , Teixeira Filho Marcelo Carvalho Minhoto
Published: October 2019

The use of biological techniques such as plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) can represent a sustainable alternative for cereal growth in tropical areas. Research showing the potential for management practices which optimize PGPB inoculation is of utmost importance. This research was developed to investigate the potential use of Azospirillum brasilense in wheat cropping systems, as well as to assess the potential synergistic interactions between the beneficial use of silicon (Si), principally under abiotic and biotic conditions, and A. brasilense forms of application and how they impact crop development and wheat yield. The study was set up in a Rhodic Hapludox under a no-till system. The experimental design was a completely randomized block design with four replicates arranged in a factorial scheme with four inoculation forms (control, seed, groove, and leaf) and two soil acidity corrective sources (Ca and Mg silicate as Si source and dolomitic limestone). Seed inoculation was more effective in promoting wheat growth and development, with higher yield, showing an increase of 26.7% in wheat grain yield. Calcium and magnesium silicate application associated with foliar inoculation and without A. brasilense inoculation can increase wheat grain yield.
Evaluating Remotely-Sensed Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) Water Stress Responses Across a Viticultural Region
Authors: Pagay Vinay , Kidman Catherine M.
Published: October 2019

The evolving spatial and temporal knowledge about vineyard performance through the use of remote sensing offers new perspectives for vine water status studies. This paper describes the application of aerial thermal imaging to evaluate vine water status to improve irrigation scheduling decisions, water use efficiency, and overall winegrape quality in the Coonawarra viticultural region of South Australia. Airborne infrared images were acquired during the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons in the region of Coonawarra, South Australia. Several thermal indices of crop water status (CWSI, Ig, (Tc-Ta)) were calculated that correlated with conventional soil and vine water status measures (Ψpd, Ψs, gs). CWSI and Ig could discriminate between the two cultivars used in this study, Cabernet Sauvignon (CAS) and Shiraz (SHI), as did the conventional water stress measures. The relationship between conventional vine water status measures appeared stronger with CWSI in the warmer and drier season (2016) compared to the cooler and wetter season (2017), where Ig and (Tc-Ta) showed stronger correlations. The study identified CWSI, Ig and (Tc-Ta) to be reliable indicators of vine water status under a variety of environmental conditions. This is the first study to report on high resolution vine water status at a regional scale in Australia using a combination of remote and direct sensing methods. This methodology is promising for aerial surveillance of vine water status across multiple blocks and cultivars to inform irrigation scheduling.
The Role of Magnesium in the Secondary Phase After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury. A Prospective Clinical Observer Study
Authors: Sperl André , Heller Raban Arved , Biglari Bahram , Haubruck Patrick , Seelig Julian , Schomburg Lutz , Bock Tobias , Moghaddam Arash
Published: October 2019

In the secondary injury phase after traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI), oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory responses at the site of injury constitute crucial factors controlling damage extent and may serve as potential therapeutic targets. We determined Magnesium (Mg) serum concentration dynamics in context with the potential of neurological remission in patients with TSCI as Mg is suspected to limit the production of reactive oxygen species and reduce lipid peroxidation. A total of 29 patients with acute TSCI were enrolled, and blood samples were drawn over 3 months at 11 time-points and Mg quantification was performed. Patients were divided into those with (G1, n = 18) or without neurological remission (G0, n = 11). Results show a slight drop in Mg level during the first 4 h after injury, then remained almost unchanged in G1, but increased continuously during the first 7 days after injury in G0. At day 7 Mg concentrations in G1 and G0 were significantly different (p = 0.039, G0 > G1). Significant differences were detected between patients in G1 that presented an AIS (ASIA Impairment Scale) conversion of 1 level versus those with more than 1 level (p = 0.014, G1 AIS imp. = +1 > G1 AI imp. > +1). Low and decreasing levels of Mg within the first 7 days are indicative of a high probability of neurological remission, whereas increasing levels are associated with poor neurological outcome.
Anthocyanin Accumulation in Black Kernel Mutant Rice and its Contribution to ROS Detoxification in Response to High Temperature at the Filling Stage
Authors: Zaidi Syed Hassan Raza , Zakari Shamsu Ado , Zhao Qian , Khan Ali Raza , Shah Jawad Munawar , Cheng Fangmin
Published: October 2019

Effect of high temperature (HT) on anthocyanin (ANS) accumulation and its relationship with reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in color rice kernel was investigated by using a black kernel mutant (9311bk) and its wildtype (WT). 9311bk showed strikingly higher ANS content in the kernel than WT. Just like the starch accumulation in rice kernels, ANS accumulation in the 9311bk kernel increased progressively along with kernel development, with the highest level of ANS at kernel maturity. HT exposure evidently decreased ANS accumulation in 9311bk kernel, but it increased ROS and MDA concentrations. The extent of HT-induced decline in kernel starch accumulation was genotype-dependent, which was much larger for WT than 9311bk. Under HT exposure, 9311bk had a relatively lower increase in ROS and MDA contents than its WT. This occurrence was just opposite to the genotype-dependent alteration in the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and APX) in response to HT exposure, suggesting more efficiently ROS detoxification and relatively stronger heat tolerance for 9311bk than its WT. Hence, the extent of HT-induced declines in grain weight and kernel starch content was much smaller for 9311bk relative to its WT. HT exposure suppressed the transcripts of OsCHS, OsF3’H, OsDFR and OsANS and impaired the ANS biosynthesis in rice kernel, which was strongly responsible for HT-induced decline in the accumulation of ANS, C3G, and P3G in 9311bk kernels. These results could provide valuable information to cope with global warming and achieving high quality for color rice production.
Characterization of Residual Biomasses and Its Application for the Removal of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Tejada-Tovar Candelaria , Gonzalez-Delgado Angel Darío , Villabona-Ortiz Angel
Published: October 2019

The removal of water pollutants has been widely addressed for the conservation of the environment, and novel materials are being developed as adsorbent to address this issue. In this work, different residual biomasses were employed to prepare biosorbents applied to lead (Pb(II)) ion uptake. The choice of cassava peels (CP), banana peels (BP), yam peels (YP), and oil palm bagasse (OPB) was made due to the availability of such biomasses in the Department of Bolivar (Colombia), derived from agro-industrial activities. The materials were characterized by ultimate and proximate analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis (BET), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) in order to determine the physicochemical properties of bioadsorbents. The adsorption tests were carried out in batch mode, keeping the initial metal concentration at 100 ppm, temperature at 30 °C, particle size at 1 mm, and solution pH at 6. The experimental results were adjusted to kinetic and isotherm models to determine the adsorption mechanism. The remaining concentration of Pb(II) in solution was measured by atomic absorption at 217 nm. The functional groups identified in FTIR spectra are characteristic of lignocellulosic materials. A high surface area was found for all biomaterials with the exception of yam peels. A low pore volume and size, related to the mesoporous structure of these materials, make these bioadsorbents a suitable alternative for liquid phase adsorption, since they facilitate the diffusion of Pb(II) ions onto the adsorbent structure. Both FTIR and EDS techniques confirmed ion precipitation onto adsorbent materials after the adsorption process. The adsorption tests reported efficiency values above 80% for YP, BP, and CP, indicating a good uptake of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solution. The results reported that Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second order best fit experimental data, suggesting that the adsorption process is governed by chemical reactions and multilayer uptake. The future prospective of this work lies in the identification of alternatives to reuse Pb(II)-contaminated biomasses after heavy metal adsorption, such as material immobilization.
Automatic Identification of Sedimentary Facies Based on a Support Vector Machine in the Aryskum Graben, Kazakhstan
Authors: Ai Xiao , Wang Hongyu , Sun Baitao
Published: October 2019

The Aryskum Depression in the South Turgay Basin has shown improving exploration prospects for subtle reservoirs, due to investment in the exploration workload and more comprehensive geological research. Among them, lithologic stratigraphic reservoirs have gradually become one of the focuses of oil and gas exploration. At present, deduction of the sedimentary characteristics of the target layer through core wells using artificial exploration has become an urgent problem to be solved. We selected 16 artificially interpreted coring wells in the Aryskum Graben for this study. Using the parameters of the gamma-ray (GR) curve of coring wells and support vector machine (SVM) classification algorithms, we developed an automatic identification model of sedimentary facies in the study area. The application of the SVM includes the following steps: Firstly, using the GR curve of 16 coring wells, six quantitative indexes defined as standard deviation, relative gravity, curve amplitude ratio, average median, average slope, and mutation amplitude, are selected to quantify the logging curve in the study area, thus realizing the description of the logging curve form. Secondly, training samples are selected to establish an SVM classification model. Finally, a quantitative discrimination model based on the SVM algorithm is established to realize the classification of depositional facies. Field application shows that this solution can be effectively used in uncored wells to identify depositional facies with a rate of accuracy approaching 70%. Our results provide new methods for the identification of sedimentary facies in the study area. The results will also provide a theoretical basis, as well as data basis, for further fine division of microfacies in the study area.
Complex Networks and Machine Learning: From Molecular to Social Sciences
Authors: Quesada David , Cruz-Monteagudo Maykel , Fletcher Terace , Duardo-Sanchez Aliuska , González-Díaz Humbert
Published: October 2019

Combining complex networks analysis methods with machine learning (ML) algorithms have become a very useful strategy for the study of complex systems in applied sciences. Noteworthy, the structure and function of such systems can be studied and represented through the above-mentioned approaches, which range from small chemical compounds, proteins, metabolic pathways, and other molecular systems, to neuronal synapsis in the brain’s cortex, ecosystems, the internet, markets, social networks, program’s development in education, social learning, etc. On the other hand, ML algorithms are useful to study large datasets with characteristic features of complex systems. In this context, we decided to launch one special issue focused on the benefits of using ML and complex network analysis (in combination or separately) to study complex systems in applied sciences. The topic of the issue is: Complex Networks and Machine Learning in Applied Sciences. Contributions to this special issue are highlighted below. The present issue is also linked to conference series, MOL2NET International Conference on Multidisciplinary Sciences, ISSN: 2624-5078, MDPI AG, SciForum, Basel, Switzerland. At the same time, the special issue and the conference are hosts for the works published by students/tutors of the USEDAT: USA–Europe Data Analysis Training Worldwide Program.
Feasibility Study of Using Carbide Slag as In-Bed Desulfurizer in Circulating Fluidized Bed Boiler
Authors: Huang Zhong , Long Jimiao , Deng Lei , Che Defu
Published: October 2019

Carbide slag is a waste residue during the production of acetylene. Due to its high content of Ca(OH)2, carbide slag becomes a potential alternative to limestone as the in-bed desulfurizer of circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boilers. In this study, the calcination and sulfation characteristics of carbide slag were investigated by three different facilities, thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), 1 MWth pilot CFB boiler, and 690 t·h−1 CFB boiler. Pore structures and sulfation behaviors of carbide slag and limestone were investigated for the sake of comparison. The results showed that carbide slag has a lower calcination temperature than limestone. Its calcined product has a better pore structure and desulfurization activity. The carbide slag exhibited a higher desulfurization efficiency than the limestone in the pilot tests. The SO2 emission concentration showed a downward trend with the increase of molar fraction of carbide slag in the desulfurizer. Meanwhile, carbide slag had a better sintering-resistance property, which makes it possible to effectively reduce SO2 emissions even at high combustion temperatures (>910 °C). While the field test results were similar to that of the pilot tests, the desulfurization efficiency of carbide slag with the same Ca/S mole ratio was higher than that of limestone. The fine size of carbide slag particles and the lower separation efficiency of the cyclone on the 690 t·h−1 boiler left the carbide slag with insufficient residence time in the furnace. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure a high separation efficiency of the cyclone if the carbide slag is used as an alternative desulfurizer in furnace.
A New Adaptive Fuzzy PID Controller Based on Riccati-Like Equation with Application to Vibration Control of Vehicle Seat Suspension
Authors: Phu Do Xuan , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: October 2019

A new controller based on the modified Riccati-like Equation is developed in this paper. The interval type 2 fuzzy model is applied and embedded in the controller to ensure the robustness to parameter uncertainties and also to support calculation progress. The proposed input control includes equivalent control and robustness control. The equivalent control is found from the conventional analysis with the sliding surface, but this control is not sufficient to resolve the uncertainties and disturbances such as error approximation of the fuzzy model. Thus, a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller and matrices of the traditional model of Riccati equation are utilized to ensure the robustness. In the synthesis of this control part, the H infinity technique is adopted and the stability of the system is proved using Lyapunov stability. Subsequently, to validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller, it was applied to vibration control of a vehicle seat suspension with a magnetorheological (MR) damper subjected to stiffness variation due to the magnitude of the input current. In this problem, two types of road conditions, bump and random step wave, were adopted and control performance was evaluated in both simulations and experiments. Based on these evaluations, the proposed controller provides high control performances, effectively controlling the acceleration and displacement at the driver position.
Anthocyanins from Hibiscus syriacus L. Inhibit Melanogenesis by Activating the ERK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Karunarathne Wisurumuni , Molagoda Ilandarage , Park Sang , Kim Jeong , Lee Oh-Kyu , Kwon Hae , Oren Matan , Choi Yung , Ryu Hyung , Oh Sei-Ryang , Jo Wol , Lee Kyoung , Kim Gi-Young
Published: October 2019

Hibiscus syriacus L. exhibited promising potential as a new source of food and colorants containing various anthocyanins. However, the function of anthocyanins from H. syriacus L. has not been investigated. In the current study, we evaluated whether anthocyanins from the H. syriacus L. varieties Pulsae and Paektanshim (PS and PTS) inhibit melanin biogenesis. B16F10 cells and zebrafish larvae were exposed to PS and PTS in the presence or absence of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), and melanin contents accompanied by its regulating genes and proteins were analyzed. PS and PTS moderately downregulated mushroom tyrosinase activity in vitro, but significantly decreased extracellular and intracellular melanin production in B16F10 cells, and inhibited α-MSH-induced expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase. PS and PTS also attenuated pigmentation in α-MSH-stimulated zebrafish larvae. Furthermore, PS and PTS activated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), whereas PD98059, a specific ERK inhibitor, completely reversed PS- and PTS-mediated anti-melanogenic activity in B16F10 cells and zebrafish larvae, which indicates that PS- and PTS-mediated anti-melanogenic activity is due to ERK activation. Moreover, chromatography data showed that PS and PTS possessed 17 identical anthocyanins as a negative regulator of ERK. These findings suggested that anthocyanins from PS and PTS inhibited melanogenesis in vitro and in vivo by activating the ERK signaling pathway.
Dynamics of Solid Proteins by Means of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Relaxometry
Authors: Kruk Danuta , Masiewicz Elzbieta , Borkowska Anna , Rochowski Pawel , Fries Pascal , Broche Lionel , Lurie David
Published: October 2019

1H Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry was exploited to investigate the dynamics of solid proteins. The relaxation experiments were performed at 37 °C over a broad frequency range, from approximately 10 kHz to 40 MHz. Two relaxation contributions to the overall 1H spin–lattice relaxation were revealed; they were associated with 1H–1H and 1H–14N magnetic dipole–dipole interactions, respectively. The 1H–1H relaxation contribution was interpreted in terms of three dynamical processes occurring on timescales of 10−6 s, 10−7 s, and 10−8 s, respectively. The 1H–14N relaxation contribution shows quadrupole relaxation enhancement effects. A thorough analysis of the data was performed revealing similarities in the protein dynamics, despite their different structures. Among several parameters characterizing the protein dynamics and structure (e.g., electric field gradient tensor at the position of 14N nuclei), the orientation of the 1H–14N dipole–dipole axis, with respect to the principal axis system of the electric field gradient, was determined, showing that, for lysozyme, it was considerably different than for the other proteins. Moreover, the validity range of a closed form expression describing the 1H–14N relaxation contribution was determined by a comparison with a general approach based on the stochastic Liouville equation.
Use of Cardiac Biomarkers for Monitoring Improvement of Left Ventricular Function by Immunoadsorption Treatment in Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Weinmann Karolina , Werner Jakob , Koenig Wolfgang , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Walcher Daniel , Keßler Mirjam
Published: October 2019

Immunoadsorption and subsequent administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) have shown beneficial effects on cardiac function and symptoms in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Biomarkers play an emerging role in disease monitoring and outcome prediction of heart failure (HF) patients. We aimed to analyze cardiac biomarkers as predictor for improvement of left ventricular (LV) function after immunoadsorption treatment in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Thirty-one patients with dilated cardiomyopathy on optimized HF pharmacotherapy received a single cycle of immunoadsorption for five days followed by IVIG administration. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and heart failure biomarkers (hs troponin T, hs troponin I, NT-proBNP and sST2) were evaluated before treatment, after the last cycle of immunoadsorption and during a median follow-up of 30.5 months. We correlated HF biomarkers before immunoadsorption and acute changes of HF biomarkers by immunoadsorption with LV improvement during the long-term follow-up. LV function improved significantly after immunoadsorption from 28.0 to 42.0% during the long-term follow-up (p < 0.0001). Evaluation of biomarker levels showed a significant decrease for hs troponin I (from 9.2 to 5.5 ng/L, p < 0.05) and NT-proBNP (from 789.6 to 281.2 pg/mL, p < 0.005). Correlation of biomarker levels before immunoadsorption and LVEF at the long-term follow-up show good results for hs troponin T (r = −0.40, r2 = 0.16, p < 0.05), hs troponin I (r = −0.41, r2 = 0.17, p < 0.05) and sST2 (r = −0.46, r2 = 0.19, p < 0.05). Correlation of biomarker levels before immunoadsorption and the individual increase in LV function was significant for hs troponin T (r = −0.52, r2 = 0.27, p < 0.005) and hs troponin I (r = −0.53, r2 = 0.29, p < 0.005). To imply a tool for monitoring outcome immediately after immunoadsorption treatment, we investigated the correlation of acute changes of biomarker levels by immunoadsorption treatment and individual increase in LV function. A drop in hs troponin T (r = −0.41, r2 = 0.17, p < 0.05) and hs troponin I (r = −0.53, r2 = 0.28, p < 0.005) levels demonstrate a good correlation to improvement in LVEF during the long-term follow-up. Conclusion: Hs troponin T and I levels correlate with LV function improvement during long-term follow-up. Acute decrease of troponins by immunoadsorption treatment is paralleled by individual improvement of LVEF at the long-term follow-up. Thus, troponins could serve as a monitoring tool for the improvement of LV function after immunoadsorption treatment in dilated cardiomyopathy.
The Influence of an Integrated Driving on the Performance of Different Passive Heating and Cooling Methods for Buildings
Authors: Oropeza-Perez Ivan
Published: October 2019

Passive cooling and heating methods within buildings are studied a lot nowadays. Nevertheless, their performance considering their driving has not been deeply studied. Therefore, the performance of the most common passive heating and cooling methods is analyzed in this document. The methods are divided into three categories: operable, semi-operable, and not operable. They are studied under different conditions of operation in order to estimate their performance in terms of indoor temperature increase/decrease in a single dwelling. The study is carried out with the thermal simulation program EnergyPlus, using a dwelling in Mexico City as a case study, which is validated with literature that studied passive methods for similar climates. Furthermore, for an integrated driving, four features of operation of the passive methods are considered: mobility, maintenance, assembly, and consumables. The results show that a correct use of these features of driving might achieve a significant temperature drop in the case of cooling and a significant indoor temperature increase in the case of heating. This is reflected in a considerable amount of energy saving compared to a conventional heating/cooling heat-pump system running under regular conditions, which is taken as a reference of consumption. Thereby, it is concluded that the proper usage, considered here as the correct application of the four features of operation mainly by the occupants, might have a high influence in their performance of increase/decrease of the indoor temperature. Thus, it is highly recommended to follow up their performance once installed and not to suppose an optimal performance ever after.
Effect of Halogen Ions on the Photocycle of Fluorescent Carbon Nanodots
Authors: Sciortino Alice , Pecorella Roberto , Cannas Marco , Messina Fabrizio
Published: October 2019

Carbon dots (C-dots) are well-known for their strong sensitivity to the environment, which reflects on intensity and shape changes of their fluorescence, induced by various interacting ions and molecules in solution. Although these interactions have been extensively studied in the last few years, especially in view of their possible sensing applications, the existing works have mostly focused on the quenching of C-dot fluorescence induced by metal cations. In fact, these latter easily bind to C-dots surfaces, which are negatively charged in most cases, promoting an electron transfer from the surface to them. Much less is known from the literature on the effect induced on C-dots by prototypical negative species in solutions, motivating more systematic studies on this different class of interactions. Here, we analyzed the effect of halogen ions on the fluorescence of C-dots, by combining steady-state optical absorption and photoluminescence, time-resolved fluorescence and femtosecond pump/probe spectroscopy. We demonstrate a quenching effect of C-dots fluorescence in the presence of halogen ions, which becomes more and more pronounced with increasing atomic number of the halogens, being negligible for chloride, appreciable for bromide and stronger for iodide. We find that quenching is mostly static, due to the binding of halogen ions on suitable surface sites at C-dots surfaces, while collisional quenching becomes obvious only at very high iodide concentrations. Finally, nanosecond and femtosecond time-resolved spectroscopies provide information on the quenching mechanism and time scales. Based on these data, we propose that the fluorescent state is deactivated by intersystem crossing to a dark triplet state, induced by close-range interactions with the heaviest halogen ions.
SLUG Directs the Precursor State of Human Brain Tumor Stem Cells
Authors: Chesnelong Charles , Hao Xiaoguang , Cseh Orsolya , Wang Alice Yijun , Luchman H. Artee , Weiss Samuel
Published: October 2019

In glioblastoma (GBM), brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs) encompass heterogenous populations of multipotent, self-renewing, and tumorigenic cells, which have been proposed to be at the root of therapeutic resistance and recurrence. While the functional significance of BTSC heterogeneity remains to be fully determined, we previously distinguished relatively quiescent stem-like precursor state from the more aggressive progenitor-like precursor state. In the present study, we hypothesized that progenitor-like BTSCs arise from stem-like precursors through a mesenchymal transition and drive post-treatment recurrence. We first demonstrate that progenitor-like BTSCs display a more mesenchymal transcriptomic profile. Moreover, we show that both mesenchymal GBMs and progenitor-like BTSCs are characterized by over-activated STAT3/EMT pathways and that SLUG is the primary epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) transcription factor directly regulated by STAT3 in BTSCs. SLUG overexpression in BTSCs enhances invasiveness, promotes inflammation, and shortens survival. Importantly, SLUG overexpression in a quiescent stem-like BTSC line enhances tumorigenesis. Finally, we report that recurrence is associated with SLUG-induced transcriptional changes in both BTSCs and GBM patient samples. Collectively, our findings show that a STAT3-driven precursor state transition, mediated by SLUG, may prime BTSCs to initiate more aggressive mesenchymal recurrence. Targeting the STAT3/SLUG pathway may maintain BTSCs in a quiescent stem-like precursor state, delaying recurrence and improving survival in GBM.
Cooperative Catalytic Behavior of SnO2 and NiWO4 over BiVO4 Photoanodes for Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting Performance
Authors: Shaddad Maged N. , Arunachalam Prabhakarn , Hezam Mahmoud , Al-Mayouf Abdullah M.
Published: October 2019

n-BiVO4 is a favorable photoelectrode candidate for a photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting reaction owing to its suitable energy level edge locations for an oxygen evolution reaction. On the other hand, the sluggish water oxidation kinetics of BiVO4 photoanodes when used individually make it necessary to use a hole blocking layer as well as water oxidation catalysts to overcome the high kinetic barrier for the PEC water oxidation reaction. Here, we describe a very simple synthetic strategy to fabricate nanocomposite photoanodes that synergistically address both of these critical limitations. In particular, we examine the effect of a SnO2 buffer layer over BiVO4 films and further modify the photoanode surface with a crystalline nickel tungstate (NiWO4) nanoparticle film to boost PEC water oxidation. When NiWO4 is incorporated over BiVO4/SnO2 films, the PEC performance of the resultant triple-layer NiWO4/BiVO4/SnO2 films for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is further improved. The enhanced performance for the PEC OER is credited to the synergetic effect of the individual layers and the introduction of a SnO2 buffer layer over the BiVO4 film. The optimized NiWO4/BiVO4/SnO2 electrode demonstrated both enriched visible light absorption and achieves charge separation and transfer efficiencies of 23% and 30%, respectively. The photoanodic current density for the OER on optimized NiWO4/BiVO4/SnO2 photoanode shows a maximum photocurrent of 0.93 mA/cm2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE in a phosphate buffer solution (pH~7.5) under an AM1.5G solar simulator, which is an incredible five-fold and two-fold enhancement compared to its parent BiVO4 photoanode and BiVO4/SnO2 photoanodes, respectively. Further, the incorporation of the NiWO4 co-catalyst over the BiVO4/SnO2 film increases the interfacial electron transfer rate across the composite/solution interface.
Bioproduction of Isoprenoids and Other Secondary Metabolites Using Methanotrophic Bacteria as an Alternative Microbial Cell Factory Option: Current Stage and Future Aspects
Authors: Jeon Young Chan , Nguyen Anh Duc , Lee Eun Yeol
Published: October 2019

Methane is a promising carbon feedstock for industrial biomanufacturing because of its low price and high abundance. Recent advances in metabolic engineering and systems biology in methanotrophs have made it possible to produce a variety of value-added compounds from methane, including secondary metabolites. Isoprenoids are one of the largest family of secondary metabolites and have many useful industrial applications. In this review, we highlight the current efforts invested to methanotrophs for the production of isoprenoids and other secondary metabolites, including riboflavin and ectoine. The future outlook for improving secondary metabolites production (especially of isoprenoids) using metabolic engineering of methanotrophs is also discussed.
A DFT Study of Acetylene Hydrogenation Catalyzed by S-Doped Pd1/g-C3N4
Authors: Kang Lihua , Zhu Mingyuan , Zhao Yu
Published: October 2019

To exploit the excellent properties of g-C3N4, more and more studies have been carried out in various fields in recent years to improve the selectivity of catalysts, especially for selective acetylene hydrogenation. To our best knowledge, Pd catalyst is of great importance to hydrogenate acetylene in ethylene feed. Though we have explored the hydrogenation of acetylene catalyzed by Pd1/g-C3N4 before, doping with non-metals has never been studied. In this work, the mechanisms of selective hydrogenation of acetylene to ethylene on S-doped Pd1/g-C3N4 were investigated and we also compared this result with undoped Pd1/g-C3N4. By comparing the activation energy and selectivity of undoped Pd1/g-C3N4 with those of S-doped C and N sites of Pd1/g-C3N4, we found that S-doped C sites can improve the reactivity, but with a poor selectivity, while the activity of S atom doped N sites was not improved, but the selectivity has improved. Our work provides significant insights to explore the development of high efficiency non-metallic doping single metal atoms supported on 2D layered materials.
Chiral N-heterocyclic Carbene Gold Complexes: Synthesis and Applications in Catalysis
Authors: Michalak Michał , Kośnik Wioletta
Published: October 2019

N-Heterocyclic carbenes have found many applications in modern metal catalysis, due to the formation of stable metal complexes, and organocatalysis. Among a myriad of N-heterocyclic carbene metal complexes, gold complexes have gained a lot of attention due to their unique propensity for the activation of carbon-carbon multiple bonds, allowing many useful transformations of alkynes, allenes, and alkenes, inaccessible by other metal complexes. The present review summarizes synthetic efforts towards the preparation of chiral N-heterocyclic gold(I) complexes exhibiting C2 and C1 symmetry, as well as their applications in enantioselective catalysis. Finally, the emerging area of rare gold(III) complexes and their preliminary usage in asymmetric catalysis is also presented.
Conducting Psychosocial Intervention Research among Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: Lessons from the PRISM Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rosenberg Abby R. , Junkins Courtney C. , Sherr Nicole , Scott Samantha , Klein Victoria , Barton Krysta S. , Yi-Frazier Joyce P.
Published: October 2019

Background: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have poor psychosocial outcomes, in part because their limited participation in clinical trials precludes intervention-testing. We previously reported results of a successful randomized trial testing an AYA-targeted psychosocial intervention. Here, we aimed to describe strategies learned during the trial’s conduct. Methods: We summarized data from the medical record and staff field notes regarding reasons for participation/non-participation. We conducted two focus groups with study staff; directed content analyses identified strategies for success. Results: 92 AYAs enrolled (77% of approached; n = 50 Usual Care (control), n = 49 PRISM (intervention)). In eligible families who declined participation (n = 22 AYAs, n = 8 parents), the AYAs more commonly had advanced cancer (n = 11 (37%) declined vs. n = 25 (26%) enrolled). AYA reasons for non-enrollment were predominantly “not interested”; parents worried participation was “too burdensome.” Staff strategies for accrual included having significant time to introduce the study and underscoring a desire to learn from the patient. After enrollment, AYAs who discontinued participation were more commonly assigned to control (n = 5 (10%) control vs. n = 2 (4%) intervention). Only n = 1 AYA chose to discontinue participation after receiving the intervention. Conclusions: Efforts to engage AYAs prior to and during studies may help with accrual and retention.
Traditional and Modern Uses of Saffron (Crocus Sativus)
Authors: Mzabri Ibtissam , Addi Mohamed , Berrichi Abdelbasset
Published: October 2019

The Aromatic and Medicinal Plants sector has undergone a remarkable evolution, especially during the last decade. The global market is moving more and more towards products of natural origin. Indeed, of the 4200-existing plant in Morocco, 800 are listed as aromatic and medicinal plants. Among these plants, saffron is a source of income for many areas of Morocco. Saffron, the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus flower, is considered among the main terroir products of Morocco. Saffron has accompanied all civilizations, whether for its culinary role, for its quality of dye or its ancestral virtues rooted in folk medicine. This review highlights the main components of saffron, and the pharmacological activities that result from it and make this product a serious therapeutic hope. Then, a classification of uses of saffron was carried out according to its uses, traditional, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and perfumery without forgetting its use a spice incorporated in many dishes around the world.
Identification of Structural Motifs Using Networks of Hydrogen-Bonded Base Interactions in RNA Crystallographic Structures
Authors: Hamdani Hazrina Yusof , Firdaus-Raih Mohd
Published: October 2019

RNA structural motifs can be identified using methods that analyze base–base interactions and the conformation of a structure’s backbone; however, these approaches do not necessarily take into consideration the hydrogen bonds that connect the bases or the networks of inter-connected hydrogen-bonded bases that are found in RNA structures. Large clusters of RNA bases that are tightly inter-connected by a network of hydrogen bonds are expected to be stable and relatively rigid substructures. Such base arrangements could therefore be present as structural motifs in RNA structures, especially when there is a requirement for a highly stable support platform or substructure to ensure the correct folding and spatial maintenance of functional sites that partake in catalysis or binding interactions. In order to test this hypothesis, we conducted a search in available RNA crystallographic structures in the Protein Data Bank database using queries that searched for profiles of bases inter-connected by hydrogen bonds. This method of searching does not require to have prior knowledge of the arrangement being searched. Our search results identified two clusters of six bases that are inter-connected by a network of hydrogen bonds. These arrangements of base sextuples have never been previously reported, thus making this the first report that proposes them as novel RNA tertiary motifs.