bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resonance Monitoring of a Horizontal Wind Turbine by Strain-Based Automated Operational Modal Analysis
Authors: Hu Wei-Hua , Tang De-Hui , Wang Ming , Liu Jun-Le , Li Zuo-Hua , Lu Wei , Teng Jun , Said Samir , Rohrmann Rolf. G.
Published: January 2020

A strain-based automated operational modal analysis algorithm is proposed to track the long-term dynamic behavior of a horizontal wind turbine under operational conditions. This algorithm is firstly validated by a scaled wind turbine model, and then it is applied to the dynamic strain responses recorded from a 5 MW wind turbine system. We observed variations in the fundamental frequency and 1f, 3f excitation frequencies due to the mass imbalance of the blades and aerodynamic excitation by the tower dam or tower wake. Inspection of the Campbell diagram revealed that the adverse resonance phenomenon and Sommerfeld effect causing excessive vibrations of the wind tower.
Optimization of Isolated Hybrid Microgrids with Renewable Energy Based on Different Battery Models and Technologies
Authors: García-Vera Yimy , Dufo-López Rodolfo , Bernal-Agustín José
Published: January 2020

Energy supply in remote areas (mainly in developing countries such as Colombia) has become a challenge. Hybrid microgrids are local and reliable sources of energy for these areas where access to the power grid is generally limited or unavailable. These systems generally include a diesel generator, solar modules, wind turbines, and storage devices such as batteries. Battery life estimation is an essential factor in the optimization of a hybrid microgrid since it determines the system’s final costs, including future battery replacements. This article presents a comparison of different technologies and battery models in a hybrid microgrid. The optimization is achieved using the iHOGA software, based on data from a real microgrid in Colombia. The simulation results allowed the comparison of prediction models for lifespan calculation for both lead–acid and lithium batteries in a hybrid microgrid, showing that the most accurate models are more realistic in predicting battery life by closely estimating real lifespans that are shorter, unlike other simplified methods that obtain much longer and unrealistic lifetimes.
Condition Monitoring in Photovoltaic Systems by Semi-Supervised Machine Learning
Authors: Maaløe Lars , Winther Ole , Spataru Sergiu , Sera Dezso
Published: January 2020

With the rapid increase in photovoltaic energy production, there is a need for smart condition monitoring systems ensuring maximum throughput. Complex methods such as drone inspections are costly and labor intensive; hence, condition monitoring by utilizing sensor data is attractive. In order to recognize meaningful patterns from the sensor data, there is a need for expressive machine learning models. However, supervised machine learning, e.g., regression models, suffer from the cumbersome process of annotating data. By utilizing a recent state-of-the-art semi-supervised machine learning based on probabilistic modeling, we were able to perform condition monitoring in a photovoltaic system with high accuracy and only a small fraction of annotated data. The modeling approach utilizes all the unsupervised data by jointly learning a low-dimensional feature representation and a classification model in an end-to-end fashion. By analysis of the feature representation, new internal condition monitoring states can be detected, proving a practical way of updating the model for better monitoring. We present (i) an analysis that compares the proposed model to corresponding purely supervised approaches, (ii) a study on the semi-supervised capabilities of the model, and (iii) an experiment in which we simulated a real-life condition monitoring system.
Effect of Surface Treatment by Chemical-Mechanical Polishing for Transparent Electrode of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Sangmo , Bark Chung Wung
Published: January 2020

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are usually fabricated by using the spin coating method. During the fabrication process, the surface status is very important for energy conversion between layers coated in the substrate. PSCs have multilayer-stacked structures, such as the transparent electrode layer, the perovskite layer, and a metal electrode. The efficiency and uniformity of all layers depend on the surface status of the transparent electrode coated on the glass substrate. Until now, etching methods by chemical processes have been introduced to make the substrate surface smooth and uniform by decreasing surface roughness. However, highly reactive chemical treatments can be harmful to the environment. In this study, we employed an eco-friendly chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) process to ensure the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate is treated with a smooth surface. Before the perovskite layer and electron transport layer (ETL) are applied, the TiO2 layer is coated with the FTO substrate, and the surface of the FTO substrate is polished using CMP. As a result, the CMP-treated surface of the FTO substrate showed a smooth surface, and the PSCs with CMP treatment did not require conventional TiCl4 treatment.
The Application of Courtyard and Settlement Layouts of the Traditional Diyarbakır Houses to Contemporary Houses: A Case Study on the Analysis of Energy Performance
Authors: Ayçam İdil , Akalp Sevilay , Görgülü Leyla Senem
Published: January 2020

Conventional energy use has brought environmental problems such as global warming and accelerated efforts to reduce energy consumption in many areas, particularly in the housing sector. For this purpose, bioclimatic design principles and vernacular architecture parameters have started to be examined in residential buildings nowadays. Thus, the demand for less energy-consuming houses has started to increase. In this study, we aimed to specify the significance of traditional architectural parameters for houses in the hot-dry climatic region of Diyarbakır, Turkey. Within the scope of the study, a case was based on the urban fabric of the traditional houses in Historical Diyarbakir Suriçi-Old Town settlement and the Şilbe Mass Housing Area was discussed. The courtyard types, settlement patterns, and street texture of traditional Diyarbakır houses were modeled by using DesignBuilder energy simulation program for the case study. Annual heating, cooling, and total energy loads were calculated, and their thermal performances were compared. The aim is to create a less energy-consuming and sustainable environment with the adaptation of traditional building form-street texture to today’s housing sector. Development of a settlement model, which is based on traditional houses’ bioclimatic design for hot-dry region, was intended to be applied in the modern housing sector of Turkey. Moreover, adapting local forms, urban texture, and settlement patterns to today has significant potential for sustainable architecture and energy-efficient buildings. According to this study, the optimum form and layout of traditional houses, which are one of the climate balanced building designs, provide annual energy savings if integrated and designed in today’s building construction. As a result of this study, if the passive design alternatives such as building shape, layout, and orientation were developed in the first stage of the design, energy efficient building design would be possible. The study is important for the continuation of traditional sustainable design.
Temperature Sensitivity in Individual Components of Ecosystem Respiration Increases along the Vertical Gradient of Leaf–Stem–Soil in Three Subtropical Forests
Authors: Chi Yonggang , Yang Qingpeng , Zhou Lei , Shen Ruichang , Zheng Shuxia , Zhang Zhaoyang , Zhang Zhenzhen , Xu Ming , Wu Chaofan , Lin Xingwen , Jin Jia
Published: January 2020

Temperature sensitivity (Q10) of ecosystem respiration (ER) is a crucial parameter for predicting the fate of CO2 in terrestrial e cosystems under global warming. Most studies focus their attention in the variation of Q10 in one or two components of ER, but not in the integration or comparison among Q10 in major components of ER. Vertical and seasonal variations in individual components, including leaf respiration, stem respiration and soil respiration, of ER were observed synchronously along the gradient of leaf–stem–soil over a 2 year period in three forest stands dominated by masson pine, loblolly pine and oak, respectively, in a subtropical forest ecosystem of central China. We found that Q10 in individual components of ER increased along the vertical gradient of leaf–stem–soil. The vertical pattern of Q10 in individual components of ER was ascribed to variations of diurnal temperature range (DTR) and activation energy (ΔHa). These results suggest that a vertical pattern of Q10 in individual components of ER along the gradient of leaf–stem–soil should be taken into consideration in process-based models that simulate respiratory carbon flux in terrestrial ecosystems.
Estimating Coarse Woody Debris Volume Using Image Analysis and Multispectral LiDAR
Authors: Lopes Queiroz Gustavo , McDermid Gregory , Linke Julia , Hopkinson Christopher , Kariyeva Jahan
Published: January 2020

Coarse woody debris (CWD, parts of dead trees) is an important factor in forest management, given its roles in promoting local biodiversity and unique microhabitats, as well as providing carbon storage and fire fuel. However, parties interested in monitoring CWD abundance lack accurate methods to measure CWD accurately and extensively. Here, we demonstrate a novel strategy for mapping CWD volume (m3) across a 4300-hectare study area in the boreal forest of Alberta, Canada using optical imagery and an infra-canopy vegetation-index layer derived from multispectral aerial LiDAR. Our models predicted CWD volume with a coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.62 compared to field data, and a root-mean square error (RMSE) of 0.224 m3/100 m2. Models using multispectral LiDAR data in addition to image-analysis data performed with up to 12% lower RMSE than models using exclusively image-analysis layers. Site managers and researchers requiring reliable and comprehensive maps of CWD volume may benefit from the presented workflow, which aims to streamline the process of CWD measurement. As multispectral LiDAR radiometric calibration routines are developed and standardized, we expect future studies to benefit increasingly more from such products for CWD detection underneath canopy cover.
Carbon and Nutrient Inputs by Litterfall in Evergreen and Deciduous Forests in Korea
Authors: Park Byung Bae , Rahman Afroja , Han Si Ho , Youn Woo Bin , Hyun Hwa Ja , Hernandez Jonathan , An Ji Young
Published: January 2020

Knowledge about carbon and nutrient fluxes by litterfall is important for understanding nutrient cycling in geologically unique ecosystems. However, the determination of forest litterfall production patterns is difficult due to many biophysical factors influencing the process. In this study, we (1) quantified the litterfall production and carbon and nutrient fluxes in warm-temperate evergreen forest stands in Jeju Gotjawal and (2) compared these values to those of a typical cool-temperate deciduous forest stand by forest types and climate differences. Litterfall from evergreen broadleaved forests at Cheongsu (CS) and Seonheul (SHb), a mixed forest at Seonheul (SHm) in Jeju Gotjawal, and a deciduous broadleaved forest at Chungnam National University Forest (CNU) was collected for a full two years using litter traps. Samples were sorted into leaves, twigs, barks, seeds, and unidentified materials, and then weighed and measured for C, N, P, K, Ca, and Mg fluxes by litterfall. Results showed that the mean annual litterfall (846.3 g m−2, average of CS, SHb, and SHm) at Jeju Gotjawal was similar to that of CNU (885.5 g m−2), but varied by site in Jeju Gotjawal: CS (933.1 g m−2) was significantly higher than the average of SHb and SHm (802.9 g m−2). Seasonal patterns of litterfall production differed by forest types; evergreen broadleaved forests showed a bimodal peak in fall and spring while deciduous broadleaved forests showed a unimodal peak in fall. Jeju Gotjawal had significantly higher total macronutrient concentrations and contents (except for K) than CNU and they also varied by site in Jeju Gotjawal: CS had higher N, P, Ca, and Mg contents than SHb and SHm. We conclude that litterfall production and nutrient fluxes differed by forest stand as influenced by forest types and climate. Further, our findings are important for understanding carbon and nutrient dynamics in the geologically unique ecosystem of Jeju Gotjawal and other areas with similar characteristics.
Mobility, Citizens, Innovation and Technology in Digital and Smart Cities
Authors: Oliveira Thays A. , Gabrich Yuri B. , Ramalhinho Helena , Oliver Miquel , Cohen Miri W. , Ochi Luiz S. , Gueye Serigne , Protti Fábio , Pinto Alysson A. , Ferreira Diógenes V. M. , Coelho Igor M. , Coelho Vitor N.
Published: January 2020

Cities are constantly transforming and, consequently, attracting efforts from researchers and opportunities to the industry. New transportation systems are being built in order to meet sustainability and efficiency criteria, as well as being adapted to the current possibilities. Moreover, citizens are becoming aware about the power and possibilities provided by the current generation of autonomous devices. In this sense, this paper presents and discusses state-of-the-art transportation technologies and systems, highlighting the advances that the concepts of Internet of Things and Value are providing. Decentralized technologies, such as blockchain, are been extensively investigated by the industry, however, its widespread adoption in cities is still desirable. Aligned with operations research opportunities, this paper identifies different points in which cities’ services could move to. This also study comments about different combinatorial optimization problems that might be useful and important for an efficient evolution of our cities. By considering different perspectives, didactic examples are presented with a main focus on motivating decision makers to balance citizens, investors and industry goals and wishes.
Enhancing Genetic Medicine: Rapid and Cost-Effective Molecular Diagnosis for a GJB2 Founder Mutation for Hearing Impairment in Ghana
Authors: M. Adadey Samuel , Tingang Wonkam Edmond , Twumasi Aboagye Elvis , Quansah Darius , Asante-Poku Adwoa , Quaye Osbourne , K. Amedofu Geoffrey , A. Awandare Gordon , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: January 2020

In Ghana, gap-junction protein β 2 (GJB2) variants account for about 25.9% of familial hearing impairment (HI) cases. The GJB2-p.Arg143Trp (NM_004004.6:c.427C>T/OMIM: 121011.0009/rs80338948) variant remains the most frequent variant associated with congenital HI in Ghana, but has not yet been investigated in clinical practice. We therefore sought to design a rapid and cost-effective test to detect this variant. We sampled 20 hearing-impaired and 10 normal hearing family members from 8 families segregating autosomal recessive non syndromic HI. In addition, a total of 111 unrelated isolated individuals with HI were selected, as well as 50 normal hearing control participants. A restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) test was designed, using the restriction enzyme NciI optimized and validated with Sanger sequencing, for rapid genotyping of the common GJB2-p.Arg143Trp variant. All hearing-impaired participants from 7/8 families were homozygous positive for the GJB2-p.Arg143Trp mutation using the NciI-RFLP test, which was confirmed with Sanger sequencing. The investigation of 111 individuals with isolated non-syndromic HI that were previously Sanger sequenced found that the sensitivity of the GJB2-p.Arg143Trp NciI-RFLP testing was 100%. All the 50 control subjects with normal hearing were found to be negative for the variant. Although the test is extremely valuable, it is not 100% specific because it cannot differentiate between other mutations at the recognition site of the restriction enzyme. The GJB2-p.Arg143Trp NciI-RFLP-based diagnostic test had a high sensitivity for genotyping the most common GJB2 pathogenic and founder variant (p.Arg143Trp) within the Ghanaian populations. We recommend the adoption and implementation of this test for hearing impairment genetic clinical investigations to complement the newborn hearing screening program in Ghana. The present study is a practical case scenario of enhancing genetic medicine in Africa.
ALT: A Multi-Faceted Phenomenon
Authors: Sommer Aurore , Royle Nicola J.
Published: January 2020

One of the hallmarks of cancer cells is their indefinite replicative potential, made possible by the activation of a telomere maintenance mechanism (TMM). The majority of cancers reactivate the reverse transcriptase, telomerase, to maintain their telomere length but a minority (10% to 15%) utilize an alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway. Here, we review the phenotypes and molecular markers specific to ALT, and investigate the significance of telomere mutations and sequence variation in ALT cell lines. We also look at the recent advancements in understanding the different mechanisms behind ALT telomere elongation and finally, the progress made in identifying potential ALT-targeted therapies, including those already in use for the treatment of both hematological and solid tumors.
Management Practices in Creative Tourism: Narratives by Managers from International Institutions to a More Sustainable Form of Tourism
Authors: Remoaldo Paula , Matos Olga , Gôja Ricardo , Alves Juliana , Duxbury Nancy
Published: January 2020

This article analyses the managerial practices implemented by international organisations that provide platforms for promoting and carrying out creative tourism activities and workshops. The methodology of this research was conducted in four phases. The first phase consisted of Internet-based research to identify organisations involved in creative tourism and 24 institutions were found. In the second phase, we analysed the information provided on the institutions’ websites. In the third phase, we prepared an interview script and sent it to those institutions. We received 12 positive replies and held a semi-structured interview with those managers. In the last phase, the narratives of the interviews were subjected to content analysis. The 12 managers interviewed, between the ages of 35 and 56, belong to public and private entities and lead technical teams. The studied institutions displayed good practices for creative tourism and strategic lines to consolidate this tourist product in the future. This study is pertinent and original because no international study has analysed in detail the management practices implemented by creative tourism platforms and a consistent characterisation of the profile of the creative tourist is yet to be outlined. It can also help institutions involved in creative tourism to better understand the international state of the field in this tourism segment.
Healthcare Associated Infections—A New Pathology in Medical Practice?
Authors: Voidazan Septimiu , Albu Sorin , Toth Réka , Grigorescu Bianca , Rachita Anca , Moldovan Iuliu
Published: January 2020

Background: Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) contribute to the emotional stress and functional disorders of the patient and in some cases, can lead to a state of disability that reduces quality of life. Often, HAI are one of the factors that lead to death. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cases of HAI identified in public hospitals at the county level, through case report sheets, as they are reported according to the Romanian legislation. Methods: We performed a cross sectional study design based on the case law of the data reported to the Mures Public Health Directorate, by all the public hospitals belonging to this county. We tracked hospital-acquired infections reported for 2017–2018, respectively, a number of 1024 cases, which implies a prevalence rate of 0.44%, 1024/228,782 cases discharged from these hospitals during the studied period. Results: The most frequent HAIs were reported by the intensive care units (48.4%), the most common infections being the following: bronchopneumonia (25.3%), enterocolitis with Clostridioides difficile (23.3%), sepsis, surgical wound infections and urinary tract infections. At the basis of HAI were 22 pathogens, but the five most common germs were Clostridioides difficile, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Bronchopneumonia have been most frequently reported in intensive care units, the most common being identified the Acinetobacter baumannii agent. Sepsis and central catheter infections also appeared predominantly in intensive care units, more often with Klebsiella pneumoniae. The enterocolitis with Clostridioides difficile, were the apanage of the medical sections. Infections with Staphylococcus aureus have been identified predominantly in the surgical sections at the level of the surgical wounds. Urinary infections had a similar distribution in the intensive care units, the medical and surgical sections, with Klebsiella pneumoniae being the most commonly incriminated agent. Conclusions: We showed a clear correspondence between the medical units and the type of HAI: what recommends the rapid, vigilant and oriented application of the prevention and control strategies of the HAI.
Goal-Framing and Temporal-Framing: Effects on the Acceptance of Childhood Simple Obesity Prevention Messages among Preschool Children’s Caregivers in China
Authors: Rao Qingmao , Bai Li , LV Yalan , Abdullah Abu Saleh , Brooks Ian , Xie Yunjie , Zhao Yong , Hou Xiaorong
Published: January 2020

A range of intervention models are available for childhood obesity prevention; however, few studies have examined the effectiveness of intervention messages. This study developed childhood simple obesity prevention messages on the basis of goal-framing and temporal-framing effects to improve message acceptance among the caregivers of preschool children and explored associated factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 592 caregivers of preschool children in urban kindergartens in China during March to April 2019. The framing messages were developed based on prospect theory and construal level theory. The majority (48.4%) of caregivers found the gain-framed, present-oriented message most salient for acceptance. We found that gender, education background, theme, and the use of negative words have impacts on goal-framing effects; and previous participation in a health related intervention, career category, and the theme have impacts on temporal-framing effects (p < 0.001). Goal-framing effects and temporal-framing effects can influence each other (p < 0.001). The findings suggest that the gain-framed, present-oriented message could be considered a strategy to improve the acceptance of information by caregivers. When framing a message, subtle differences like using negative words might affect the exertion of framing effects.
Chloramine Disinfection-Induced Nitrification Activities and Their Potential Public Health Risk Indications within Deposits of a Drinking Water Supply System
Authors: Liu Xun , Liu Hong , Ding Ning
Published: January 2020

Microsensors were applied to study the diffusion reaction and activity of a nitrogen species of deposit sediment from a drinking water supply system. Microprofiles of dissolved oxygen (DO), NH4+-N, NO3−-N, and NO2−N in the sediment indicated that the DO concentration decreased from the highest at the sediment surface to zero at the bottom of the sediment. Similarly, with the increase of depth, NH4+-N initially increased rapidly and then decreased slowly, while the concentration of NO3−-N reached a maximum at around 6000 μm and then decreased to about 0.1 mg·L−1 near the bottom of the sediment. Almost no change was observed for NO2−-N. The decrease of NH4+-N and DO corresponded well with the increase of NO3−-N. Furthermore, based on a consumption and production rate analysis, DO has always been consumed; the NH4+-N consumption rate increased rapidly within 0–1000 μm, reaching about 14 mg·L−1·S−1·10−9. A small amount of NH4+-N was produced in 2000–6000 μm, which could be attributed to denitrification activity. There was no change deeper than 6000 μm, while NO3−-N was produced at a depth between 0 and 6000 μm and was consumed in the deeper zone. At the depth of 9000 μm, the NO3−-N consumption reached a maximum of 5 mg·L−1·S−1·10−9. The consumption of DO and NH4+-N, which corresponded with the production of NO3−-N in a specific microscale range within the sediment, demonstrated nitrification and denitrification activities. In addition, the time required for the diffusion of only DO, NH4+-N, NO3−-N, and NO2−-N was estimated as 14 days; however, in the practical, even after 60 days of operation, there was still a continuous reaction, which provided further evidence towards microbial activities within the sediment.
Health Behaviors and Psychological Distress Among Conscripts of the Lithuanian Military Service: A Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mieziene Brigita , Emeljanovas Arunas , Cesnaitiene Vida Janina , Vizbaraite Daiva , Zumbakyte-Sermuksniene Renata
Published: January 2020

The decline in healthy behavior in young people is a concern for public health in general and for country’s defense. The aim of this study is to identify and compare health behaviors and psychological distress between male conscripts enlisted and rejected for military service. This cross-sectional study included 1243 men aged 19–26 years (mean age 22.50 ± 2.43 years). We assessed health behaviors (physical activity, adherence to healthy eating patterns, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption) and psychological distress. Among all conscripts, 44.7% were physically inactive, 50.2% had low adherence to healthy nutrition, 9.6% were heavy drinkers, 62.3% were current smokers, and 9.1% had high psychological distress level. Compared with physically inactive conscripts, physically active conscripts were more likely to be enlisted (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.42; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11–2.03). Compared with current nonsmokers, current smokers were less likely to be enlisted (OR = 0.58; CI 0.39–0.86). Compared with conscripts with a high distress level, those with a low distress level were almost four times more likely to be enlisted (OR = 0.26; 95% CI 0.12–0.55). Adherence to guidelines for healthy eating and alcohol consumption was not significantly related to enlistment. These findings suggest that health behaviors in male conscripts are unsatisfactory. That is, about half are physically inactive, have a poor diet, and smoke, and nearly one in 10 is a heavy drinker and has a high psychological distress level. The enlisted conscripts were more likely to be sufficiently physically active and less likely to be a current smoker or have a high distress level. Early intervention programs to provide a heathier population of young men for conscription should focus on mental well-being and target health-related behaviors such as physical activity and not smoking. Preferably, these should be implemented as health education programs in schools to help prevent the development of adverse health behaviors among young men. Governmental policies and strategies are required to enable intersectional collaboration and shared responsibility among the education, military and health sectors.
Expired Medication: Societal, Regulatory and Ethical Aspects of a Wasted Opportunity
Authors: Alnahas Faez , Yeboah Prince , Fliedel Louise , Abdin Ahmad Yaman , Alhareth Khair
Published: January 2020

A massive volume of expired medications amasses annually around the world because of pharmaceutical overprescription, combined with overproduction. The accumulation of pharmaceutical waste imposes ecological, economic and social/ethical burdens. Managing this presumed “waste” has developed into a global challenge due to the absence of specific regulations, unreasonable behavior of the patients, and an improper understanding of the concept of “expired medications” in general. This paper summaries, first, the recent literature reporting practices related to the disposal of unused medications. In this context, 48 papers from 34 countries with a total of 33,832 participants point towards a significant lack of public awareness regarding the appropriate disposal of such biologically potent chemicals. These findings are corroborated by a local survey on the disposal practices of unused medicines among pharmacy students at Saarland University. The regulatory aspects surrounding this topic, often based on the official guidelines for the disposal of expired medications and local waste management strategies, are then discussed in light of these findings. Finally, a closer inspection of the epistemic values of expired medications and different strategies for managing expired medications have been reviewed.
Modulation of Pro-Oxidant and Pro-Inflammatory Activities of M1 Macrophages by the Natural Dipeptide Carnosine
Authors: Fresta Claudia G. , Fidilio Annamaria , Lazzarino Giacomo , Musso Nicolò , Grasso Margherita , Merlo Sara , Amorini Angela M. , Bucolo Claudio , Tavazzi Barbara , Lazzarino Giuseppe , Lunte Susan M. , Caraci Filippo , Caruso Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

Carnosine is a natural endogenous dipeptide widely distributed in mammalian tissues, existing at particularly high concentrations in the muscles and brain and possesses well-characterized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In an in vitro model of macrophage activation, induced by lipopolysaccharide + interferon-gamma (LPS + IFN-γ), we here report the ability of carnosine to modulate pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory activities of macrophages, representing the primary cell type that is activated as a part of the immune response. An ample set of parameters aimed to evaluate cytotoxicity (MTT assay), energy metabolism (HPLC), gene expressions (high-throughput real-time PCR (qRT-PCR)), protein expressions (western blot) and nitric oxide production (qRT-PCR and HPLC), was used to assess the effects of carnosine on activated macrophages challenged with a non cytotoxic LPS (100 ng/mL) + IFN-γ (600 U/mL) concentration. In our experimental model, main carnosine beneficial effects were: (1) the modulation of nitric oxide production and metabolism; (2) the amelioration of the macrophage energy state; (3) the decrease of the expressions of pro-oxidant enzymes (Nox-2, Cox-2) and of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde; (4) the restoration and/or increase of the expressions of antioxidant enzymes (Gpx1, SOD-2 and Cat); (5) the increase of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and the down-regulation of the expressions of interleukins 1β and 6 (IL-1β and IL-6) and 6) the increase of the expressions of Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). According to these results carnosine is worth being tested in the treatment of diseases characterized by elevated levels of oxidative stress and inflammation (atherosclerosis, cancer, depression, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases).
High Pretransplant BAFF Levels and B-cell Subset Polarized towards a Memory Phenotype as Predictive Biomarkers for Antibody-Mediated Rejection
Authors: Irure-Ventura Juan , San Segundo David , Rodrigo Emilio , Merino David , Belmar-Vega Lara , Ruiz San Millán Juan Carlos , Valero Rosalía , Benito Adalberto , López-Hoyos Marcos
Published: January 2020

Antibody-mediated rejection (AbMR) is one of the leading causes of graft loss in kidney transplantation and B cells play an important role in the development of it. A B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is a cytokine involved in B cell ontogeny. Here, we analyzed whether B cell maturation and the effect of B cell soluble factors, such as BAFF could be involved in AbMR. Serum BAFF levels and B and T cell subpopulations were analyzed 109 kidney transplant patients before transplantation and at 6 and 12 months after kidney transplantation. Pretransplant serum BAFF levels as well as memory B cell subpopulations were significantly higher in those patients who suffered clinical AbMR during the first 12 months after kidney transplantation. Similar results were observed in the prospective analysis of patients with subclinical antibody-mediated rejection detected in the surveillance biopsy performed at 12 months after kidney transplantation. A multivariate analysis confirmed the independent role of BAFF in the development of AbMR, irrespective of other classical variables. Pretransplant serum BAFF levels could be an important non-invasive biomarker for the prediction of the development of AbMR and posttransplant increased serum BAFF levels contribute to AbMR.
Kinetic Analysis of the Thermal Decomposition of Iron(III) Phosphates: Fe(NH3)2PO4 and Fe(ND3)2PO4
Authors: Iglesias Isabel , Huidobro José A. , Alfonso Belén F. , Trobajo Camino , Espina Aránzazu , Mendoza Rafael , García José R.
Published: January 2020

The hydrothermal synthesis and both the chemical and structural characterization of a diamin iron phosphate are reported. A new synthetic route, by using n-butylammonium dihydrogen phosphate as a precursor, leads to the largest crystals described thus far for this compound. Its crystal structure is determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system (Pnma space group, a = 10.1116(2) Å, b = 6.3652(1) Å, c = 7.5691(1) Å, Z = 4) at room temperature and, below 220 K, changes towards the monoclinic system P21/n, space group. The in situ powder X-ray thermo-diffraction monitoring for the compound, between room temperature and 1100 K, is also included. Thermal analysis shows that the solid is stable up to ca. 440 K. The kinetic analysis of thermal decomposition (hydrogenated and deuterated forms) is performed by using the isoconversional methods of Vyazovkin and a modified version of Friedman. Similar values for the kinetic parameters are achieved by both methods and they are checked by comparing experimental and calculated conversion curves.
Nano-ZnO-Induced Drought Tolerance Is Associated with Melatonin Synthesis and Metabolism in Maize
Authors: Sun Luying , Song Fengbin , Guo Junhong , Zhu Xiancan , Liu Shengqun , Liu Fulai , Li Xiangnan
Published: January 2020

The applications of ZnO nanoparticles in agriculture have largely contributed to crop growth regulation, quality enhancement, and induction of stress tolerance, while the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, the involvement of melatonin synthesis and metabolism in the process of nano-ZnO induced drought tolerance was investigated in maize. Drought stress resulted in the changes of subcellular ultrastructure, the accumulation of malondialdehyde and osmolytes in leaf. The nano-ZnO (100 mg L−1) application promoted the melatonin synthesis and activated the antioxidant enzyme system, which alleviated drought-induced damage to mitochondria and chloroplast. These changes were associated with upregulation of the relative transcript abundance of Fe/Mn SOD, Cu/Zn SOD, APX, CAT, TDC, SNAT, COMT, and ASMT induced by nano-ZnO application. It was suggested that modifications in endogenous melatonin synthesis were involved in the nano-ZnO induced drought tolerance in maize.
A Newly Created Meso-, Micro-, and Nano-Scale Rough Titanium Surface Promotes Bone-Implant Integration
Authors: Hasegawa Masakazu , Saruta Juri , Hirota Makoto , Taniyama Takashi , Sugita Yoshihiko , Kubo Katsutoshi , Ishijima Manabu , Ikeda Takayuki , Maeda Hatsuhiko , Ogawa Takahiro
Published: January 2020

Titanium implants are the standard therapeutic option when restoring missing teeth and reconstructing fractured and/or diseased bone. However, in the 30 years since the advent of micro-rough surfaces, titanium’s ability to integrate with bone has not improved significantly. We developed a method to create a unique titanium surface with distinct roughness features at meso-, micro-, and nano-scales. We sought to determine the biological ability of the surface and optimize it for better osseointegration. Commercially pure titanium was acid-etched with sulfuric acid at different temperatures (120, 130, 140, and 150 °C). Although only the typical micro-scale compartmental structure was formed during acid-etching at 120 and 130 °C, meso-scale spikes (20–50 μm wide) and nano-scale polymorphic structures as well as micro-scale compartmental structures formed exclusively at 140 and 150 °C. The average surface roughness (Ra) of the three-scale rough surface was 6–12 times greater than that with micro-roughness only, and did not compromise the initial attachment and spreading of osteoblasts despite its considerably increased surface roughness. The new surface promoted osteoblast differentiation and in vivo osseointegration significantly; regression analysis between osteoconductivity and surface variables revealed these effects were highly correlated with the size and density of meso-scale spikes. The overall strength of osseointegration was the greatest when the acid-etching was performed at 140 °C. Thus, we demonstrated that our meso-, micro-, and nano-scale rough titanium surface generates substantially increased osteoconductive and osseointegrative ability over the well-established micro-rough titanium surface. This novel surface is expected to be utilized in dental and various types of orthopedic surgical implants, as well as titanium-based bone engineering scaffolds.
Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields Increase the Expression of Anagen-Related Molecules in Human Dermal Papilla Cells via GSK-3β/ERK/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ki Ga-Eun , Kim Yu-Mi , Lim Han-Moi , Lee Eun-Cheol , Choi Yun-Kyong , Seo Young-Kwon
Published: January 2020

Despite advances in medical treatments, the proportion of the population suffering from alopecia is increasing, thereby creating a need for new treatments to control hair loss and prevent balding. Human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (hDPCs), a type of specialized fibroblast in the hair bulb, play an essential role in controlling hair growth and in conditions like androgenic alopecia. This study aimed to evaluate the intensity-dependent effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) on the expression of anagen-related molecules in hDPCs in vitro. We examined the effect of ELF-EMF on hDPCs to determine whether activation of the GSK-3β/ERK/Akt signaling pathway improved hDPC activation and proliferation; hDPCs were exposed to ELF-EMFs at a frequency of 70 Hz and at intensities ranging from 5 to 100 G, over four days. Various PEMF intensities significantly increased the expression of anagen-related molecules, including collagen IV, laminin, ALP, and versican. In particular, an intensity of 10 G is most potent for promoting the proliferation of hDPC and expression of anagen-related molecules. Moreover, 10 G ELF-EMF significantly increased β-catenin and Wnt3α expression and GSK-3β/ERK/Akt phosphorylation. Our results confirmed that ELF-EMFs enhance hDPC activation and proliferation via the GSK-3β/ERK/Akt signaling pathway, suggesting a potential treatment strategy for alopecia.
Characteristic Dissection of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Responsive MicroRNAs in Rice
Authors: Jia Yanfeng , Li Chunrong , Li Quanlin , Liu Pengcheng , Liu Dongfeng , Liu Zhenzhen , Wang Yanyan , Jiang Guanghuai , Zhai Wenxue
Published: January 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial player in plant-pathogen interaction. While the evidence has demonstrated that rice miRNAs mediate immune response to pathogens invasion, the roles of miRNAs on Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) attack remain be in place. Herein, we monitored the responsive changes of rice miRNAs at 0, 8, 24 h across Xoo strain PXO86 infection in its compatible rice variety IR24 and incompatible variety IRBB5 by small RNA sequencing, and the genes targeted by miRNAs were also detected via degradome technology. The faithfulness of sequencing data was validated through quantitative real-time stem-loop reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay. Bioinformatic analysis showed that the differentially expressed miRNAs could be divided into three immunity-related clusters, and 80 regulatory units were emerged in infection process, which comprises 29 differentially expressed known miRNAs and 38 cleaved targets. Furthermore, the miRNA presumptive function of separate immunity cluster in rice-Xoo interplay was confirmed through overexpressing osa-miR164a, osa-miR167d and osa-miR159b, and the disruption of regulatory units, osa-miR164a/OsNAC60, osa-miR167d-5p/OsWD40-174 and osa-miR159b/OsMYBGA, OsLRR-RLK2, OsMPK20-4, may reset rice defense response to Xoo infestation in a controllable manner. These findings provide new insights into the complex roles of characteristic miRNAs and their targets in rice-Xoo interactions.
Adipose Tissue and Brain Metabolic Responses to Western Diet—Is There a Similarity between the Two?
Authors: Mazzoli Arianna , Spagnuolo Maria Stefania , Gatto Cristina , Nazzaro Martina , Cancelliere Rosa , Crescenzo Raffaella , Iossa Susanna , Cigliano Luisa
Published: January 2020

Dietary fats and sugars were identified as risk factors for overweight and neurodegeneration, especially in middle-age, an earlier stage of the aging process. Therefore, our aim was to study the metabolic response of both white adipose tissue and brain in middle aged rats fed a typical Western diet (high in saturated fats and fructose, HFF) and verify whether a similarity exists between the two tissues. Specific cyto/adipokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin), critical obesity-inflammatory markers (haptoglobin, lipocalin), and insulin signaling or survival protein network (insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS), Akt, Erk) were quantified in epididymal white adipose tissue (e-WAT), hippocampus, and frontal cortex. We found a significant increase of TNF-α in both e-WAT and hippocampus of HFF rats, while the expression of haptoglobin and lipocalin was differently affected in the various tissues. Interestingly, adiponectin amount was found significantly reduced in e-WAT, hippocampus, and frontal cortex of HFF rats. Insulin signaling was impaired by HFF diet in e-WAT but not in brain. The above changes were associated with the decrease in brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and synaptotagmin I and the increase in post-synaptic protein PSD-95 in HFF rats. Overall, our investigation supports for the first time similarities in the response of adipose tissue and brain to Western diet.
Treatment with Cannabinoids as a Promising Approach for Impairing Fibroblast Activation and Prostate Cancer Progression
Authors: Pietrovito Laura , Iozzo Marta , Bacci Marina , Giannoni Elisa , Chiarugi Paola
Published: January 2020

Endo-, phyto- and synthetic cannabinoids have been proposed as promising anti-cancer agents able to impair cancer cells’ behavior without affecting their non-transformed counterparts. However, cancer outcome depends not only on cancer cells’ activity, but also on the stromal cells, which coevolve with cancer cells to sustain tumor progression. Here, we show for the first time that cannabinoid treatment impairs the activation and the reactivity of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most represented stromal component of prostate tumor microenvironment. Using prostate cancer-derived CAFs, we demonstrated that WIN 55-212.2 mesylate, a synthetic full agonist of cannabinoid receptors (CBs) 1 and 2, downregulates α-smooth muscle actin and matrix metalloprotease-2 expression, and it inhibits CAF migration, essential features to ensure the activated and reactive CAF phenotype. Furthermore, by impairing stromal reactivity, WIN 55-212.2 mesylate also negatively affects CAF-mediated cancer cells’ invasiveness. Using selective antagonists of CBs, we proved that CAFs response to WIN 55-212.2 mesylate is mainly mediated by CB2. Finally, we suggest that endocannabinoids self-sustain both prostate tumor cells migration and CAFs phenotype by an autocrine loop. Overall, our data strongly support the use of cannabinoids as anti-tumor agents in prostate cancer, since they are able to simultaneously strike both cancer and stromal cells.
Alpha-1 Adrenergic Receptors Modulate Glutamate and GABA Neurotransmission onto Ventral Tegmental Dopamine Neurons during Cocaine Sensitization
Authors: Velasquez-Martinez Maria Carolina , Santos-Vera Bermary , Velez-Hernandez Maria E. , Vazquez-Torres Rafael , Jimenez-Rivera Carlos A.
Published: January 2020

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) plays an important role in the reward and motivational processes that facilitate the development of drug addiction. Presynaptic α1-AR activation modulates glutamate and Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release. This work elucidates the role of VTA presynaptic α1-ARs and their modulation on glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission during cocaine sensitization. Excitatory and inhibitory currents (EPSCs and IPSCs) measured by a whole cell voltage clamp show that α1-ARs activation increases EPSCs amplitude after 1 day of cocaine treatment but not after 5 days of cocaine injections. The absence of a pharmacological response to an α1-ARs agonist highlights the desensitization of the receptor after repeated cocaine administration. The desensitization of α1-ARs persists after a 7-day withdrawal period. In contrast, the modulation of α1-ARs on GABA neurotransmission, shown by decreases in IPSCs’ amplitude, is not affected by acute or chronic cocaine injections. Taken together, these data suggest that α1-ARs may enhance DA neuronal excitability after repeated cocaine administration through the reduction of GABA inhibition onto VTA dopamine (DA) neurons even in the absence of α1-ARs’ function on glutamate release and protein kinase C (PKC) activation. α1-AR modulatory changes in cocaine sensitization increase our knowledge of the role of the noradrenergic system in cocaine addiction and may provide possible avenues for therapeutics.
Competitive Binding of Magnesium to Calcium Binding Sites Reciprocally Regulates Transamidase and GTP Hydrolysis Activity of Transglutaminase 2
Authors: Jeong Eui Man , Lee Ki Baek , Kim Gi Eob , Kim Chang Min , Lee Jin-Haeng , Kim Hyo-Jun , Shin Ji-Woong , Kwon Mee-ae , Park Hyun Ho , Kim In-Gyu
Published: January 2020

Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a Ca2+-dependent enzyme, which regulates various cellular processes by catalyzing protein crosslinking or polyamination. Intracellular TG2 is activated and inhibited by Ca2+ and GTP binding, respectively. Although aberrant TG2 activation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse diseases, including cancer and degenerative and fibrotic diseases, the structural basis for the regulation of TG2 by Ca2+ and GTP binding is not fully understood. Here, we produced and analyzed a Ca2+-containing TG2 crystal, and identified two glutamate residues, E437 and E539, as Ca2+-binding sites. The enzymatic analysis of the mutants revealed that Ca2+ binding to these sites is required for the transamidase activity of TG2. Interestingly, we found that magnesium (Mg2+) competitively binds to the E437 and E539 residues. The Mg2+ binding to these allosteric sites enhances the GTP binding/hydrolysis activity but inhibits transamidase activity. Furthermore, HEK293 cells transfected with mutant TG2 exhibited higher transamidase activity than cells with wild-type TG2. Cells with wild-type TG2 showed an increase in transamidase activity under Mg2+-depleted conditions, whereas cells with mutant TG2 were unaffected. These results indicate that E437 and E539 are Ca2+-binding sites contributing to the reciprocal regulation of transamidase and GTP binding/hydrolysis activities of TG2 through competitive Mg2+ binding.