bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomal Thrombospondin-1 Disrupts the Integrity of Endothelial Intercellular Junctions to Facilitate Breast Cancer Cell Metastasis
Authors: Cen Junyu , Feng Lingyun , Ke Huichuan , Bao Lifeng , Li Lin Z. , Tanaka Yoshimasa , Weng Jun , Su Li
Published: December 2019

Transendothelial migration of malignant cells plays an essential role in tumor progression and metastasis. The present study revealed that treating human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with exosomes derived from metastatic breast cancer cells increased the number of cancer cells migrating through the endothelial cell layer and impaired the tube formation of HUVECs. Furthermore, the expression of intercellular junction proteins, including vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) and zona occluden-1 (ZO-1), was reduced significantly in HUVECs treated with carcinoma-derived exosomes. Proteomic analyses revealed that thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) was highly expressed in breast cancer cell MDA-MB-231-derived exosomes. Treating HUVECs with TSP1-enriched exosomes similarly promoted the transendothelial migration of malignant cells and decreased the expression of intercellular junction proteins. TSP1-down regulation abolished the effects of exosomes on HUVECs. The migration of breast cancer cells was markedly increased in a zebrafish in vivo model injected with TSP1-overexpressing breast cancer cells. Taken together, these results suggest that carcinoma-derived exosomal TSP1 facilitated the transendothelial migration of breast cancer cells via disrupting the intercellular integrity of endothelial cells.
The Roles of Sirtuin Family Proteins in Cancer Progression
Authors: Zhao Erhu , Hou Jianbing , Ke Xiaoxue , Abbas Muhammad Nadeem , Kausar Saima , Zhang Lei , Cui Hongjuan
Published: December 2019

Sirtuin family members are characterized by either mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase or deacylase activity and are linked to various cancer-related biological pathways as regulators of transcriptional progression. Sirtuins play fundamental roles in carcinogenesis and maintenance of the malignant phenotype, mainly participating in cancer cell viability, apoptosis, metastasis, and tumorigenesis. Although sirtuin family members have a high degree of homology, they may play different roles in various kinds of cancer. This review highlights their fundamental roles in tumorigenesis and cancer development and provides a critical discussion of their dual roles in cancer, namely, as tumor promoters or tumor suppressors.
EPSILoN: A Prognostic Score for Immunotherapy in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Validation Cohort
Authors: Prelaj Arsela , Ferrara Roberto , Rebuzzi Sara Elena , Proto Claudia , Signorelli Diego , Galli Giulia , De Toma Alessandro , Randon Giovanni , Pagani Filippo , Viscardi Giuseppe , Brambilla Marta , Trevisan Benedetta , Ganzinelli Monica , Martinetti Antonia , Gallucci Rosaria , Di Mauro Rosa Maria , Molino Giuliano , Zilembo Nicoletta , Torri Valter , de Braud Filippo Maria , Garassino Marina Chiara , Lo Russo Giuseppe
Published: December 2019

Background: Beyond programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), no other biomarkers for immunotherapy are used in daily practice. We previously created EPSILoN (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), smoking, liver metastases, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR)) score, a clinical/biochemical prognostic score, in 154 patients treated with second/further-line immunotherapy. This study’s aim was to validate EPSILoN score in a different population group. Methods: 193 patients were included at National Cancer Institute of Milan (second-line immunotherapy, 61%; further-line immunotherapy, 39%). Clinical/laboratory parameters such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and lactate dehydrogenase levels were collected. Kaplan–Meier and Cox hazard methods were used for survival analysis. Results: Overall median progression-free survival and median overall survival were 2.3 and 7.6 months, respectively. Multivariate analyses for Progression-Free Survival (PFS) identified heavy smokers (hazard ratio (HR) 0.71, p = 0.036) and baseline LDH < 400 mg/dL (HR 0.66, p = 0.026) as independent positive factors and liver metastases (HR 1.48, p = 0.04) and NLR ≥ 4 (HR 1.49, p = 0.029) as negative prognostic factors. These five factors were included in the EPSILoN score which was able to stratify patients in three different prognostic groups, high, intermediate and low, with PFS of 6.0, 3.8 and 1.9 months, respectively (HR 1.94, p < 0.001); high, intermediate and low prognostic groups had overall survival (OS) of 24.5, 8.9 and 3.4 months, respectively (HR 2.40, p < 0.001). Conclusions: EPSILoN, combining five baseline clinical/blood parameters (ECOG PS, smoking, liver metastases, LDH, NLR), may help to identify advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) patients who most likely benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
Carbozincation of Substituted 2-Alkynylamines, 1-Alkynylphosphines, 1-Alkynylphosphine Sulfides with Et2Zn in the Presence of Catalytic System of Ti(O-iPr)4 and EtMgBr
Authors: Kadikova Rita N. , Ramazanov Ilfir R. , Gabdullin Azat M. , Mozgovoi Oleg S. , Dzhemilev Usein M.
Published: December 2019

The EtMgBr and Ti(O-iPr)4-catalyzed ethylzincation of 1-alkynylphosphine sulfides with Et2Zn in diethyl ether followed by hydrolysis and deuterolysis affords corresponding β,β-disubstituted 1-alkenylphosphine sulfides with high yield. The EtMgBr and Ti(O-iPr)4-catalyzed reaction of 2-alkynylamines, 1-alkynylphosphines, and 1-alkenylphosphine sulfides with Et2Zn in various solvents was studied. It has been found that the reaction of 2-alkynylamines and 1-alkynylphosphines in methylene chloride, hexane, toluene, benzene, and anisole leads to the selective formation of 2-alkenylamines and 1-alkenylphosphine oxides after oxidation with H2O2.
Recent Advances in Flavin-Dependent Halogenase Biocatalysis: Sourcing, Engineering, and Application
Authors: Büchler Johannes , Papadopoulou Athena , Buller Rebecca
Published: December 2019

The introduction of a halogen atom into a small molecule can effectively modulate its properties, yielding bioactive substances of agrochemical and pharmaceutical interest. Consequently, the development of selective halogenation strategies is of high technological value. Besides chemical methodologies, enzymatic halogenations have received increased interest as they allow the selective installation of halogen atoms in molecular scaffolds of varying complexity under mild reaction conditions. Today, a comprehensive library of aromatic halogenases exists, and enzyme as well as reaction engineering approaches are being explored to broaden this enzyme family’s biocatalytic application range. In this review, we highlight recent developments in the sourcing, engineering, and application of flavin-dependent halogenases with a special focus on chemoenzymatic and coupled biosynthetic approaches.
RAC1B: A Guardian of the Epithelial Phenotype and Protector Against Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Zinn Rabea , Otterbein Hannah , Lehnert Hendrik , Ungefroren Hendrik
Published: December 2019

The small GTPase Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1B (RAC1B) has been shown to potently inhibit transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced cell migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in pancreatic and breast epithelial cells, but the underlying mechanism has remained obscure. Using a panel of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)-derived cell lines of different differentiation stages, we show that RAC1B is more abundantly expressed in well differentiated as opposed to poorly differentiated cells. Interestingly, RNA interference-mediated knockdown of RAC1B decreased expression of the epithelial marker protein E-cadherin, encoded by CDH1, and enhanced its TGF-β1-induced downregulation, whereas ectopic overexpression of RAC1B upregulated CDH1 expression and largely prevented its TGF-β1-induced silencing of CDH1. Conversely, knockdown of RAC1B, or deletion of the RAC1B-specific exon 3b by CRISPR/Cas-mediated genomic editing, enhanced basal and TGF-β1-induced upregulation of mesenchymal markers like Vimentin, and EMT-associated transcription factors such as SNAIL and SLUG. Moreover, we demonstrate that knockout of RAC1B enhanced the cells’ migratory activity and derepressed TGF-β1-induced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK2. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 activation in RAC1B-depleted cells rescued cells from the RAC1B knockdown-induced enhancement of cell migration, TGF-β1-induced downregulation of CDH1, and upregulation of SNAI1. We conclude that RAC1B promotes epithelial gene expression and suppresses mesenchymal gene expression by interfering with TGF-β1-induced MEK-ERK signaling, thereby protecting cells from undergoing EMT and EMT-associated responses like acquisition of cell motility.
Children and Adults with Refractory Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease Respond to Treatment with the Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Preparation “MSC-FFM”—Outcome Report of 92 Patients
Authors: Bonig Halvard , Kuçi Zyrafete , Kuçi Selim , Bakhtiar Shahrzad , Basu Oliver , Bug Gesine , Dennis Mike , Greil Johann , Barta Aniko , Kállay Krisztián M. , Lang Peter , Lucchini Giovanna , Pol Raj , Schulz Ansgar , Sykora Karl-Walter , Teichert von Luettichau Irene , Herter-Sprie Grit , Ashab Uddin Mohammad , Jenkin Phil , Alsultan Abdulrahman , Buechner Jochen , Stein Jerry , Kelemen Agnes , Jarisch Andrea , Soerensen Jan , Salzmann-Manrique Emilia , Hutter Martin , Schäfer Richard , Seifried Erhard , Paneesha Shankara , Novitzky-Basso Igor , Gefen Aharon , Nevo Neta , Beutel Gernot , Schlegel Paul-Gerhardt , Klingebiel Thomas , Bader Peter
Published: December 2019

(1) Background: Refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (R-aGvHD) remains a leading cause of death after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Survival rates of 15% after four years are currently achieved; deaths are only in part due to aGvHD itself, but mostly due to adverse effects of R-aGvHD treatment with immunosuppressive agents as these predispose patients to opportunistic infections and loss of graft-versus-leukemia surveillance resulting in relapse. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) from different tissues and those generated by various protocols have been proposed as a remedy for R-aGvHD but the enthusiasm raised by initial reports has not been ubiquitously reproduced. (2) Methods: We previously reported on a unique MSC product, which was generated from pooled bone marrow mononuclear cells of multiple third-party donors. The products showed dose-to-dose equipotency and greater immunosuppressive capacity than individually expanded MSCs from the same donors. This product, MSC-FFM, has entered clinical routine in Germany where it is licensed with a national hospital exemption authorization. We previously reported satisfying initial clinical outcomes, which we are now updating. The data were collected in our post-approval pharmacovigilance program, i.e., this is not a clinical study and the data is high-level and non-monitored. (3) Results: Follow-up for 92 recipients of MSC-FFM was reported, 88 with GvHD ≥°III, one-third only steroid-refractory and two-thirds therapy resistant (refractory to steroids plus ≥2 additional lines of treatment). A median of three doses of MSC-FFM was administered without apparent toxicity. Overall response rates were 82% and 81% at the first and last evaluation, respectively. At six months, the estimated overall survival was 64%, while the cumulative incidence of death from underlying disease was 3%. (4) Conclusions: MSC-FFM promises to be a safe and efficient treatment for severe R-aGvHD.
The Impact of Kinases in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis at the Neuromuscular Synapse: Insights into BDNF/TrkB and PKC Signaling
Authors: Lanuza Maria A. , Just-Borràs Laia , Hurtado Erica , Cilleros-Mañé Víctor , Tomàs Marta , Garcia Neus , Tomàs Josep
Published: December 2019

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promotes neuron survival in adulthood in the central nervous system. In the peripheral nervous system, BDNF is a contraction-inducible protein that, through its binding to tropomyosin-related kinase B receptor (TrkB), contributes to the retrograde neuroprotective control done by muscles, which is necessary for motor neuron function. BDNF/TrkB triggers downstream presynaptic pathways, involving protein kinase C, essential for synaptic function and maintenance. Undeniably, this reciprocally regulated system exemplifies the tight communication between nerve terminals and myocytes to promote synaptic function and reveals a new view about the complementary and essential role of pre and postsynaptic interplay in keeping the synapse healthy and strong. This signaling at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) could establish new intervention targets across neuromuscular diseases characterized by deficits in presynaptic activity and muscle contractility and by the interruption of the connection between nervous and muscular tissues, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Indeed, exercise and other therapies that modulate kinases are effective at delaying ALS progression, preserving NMJs and maintaining motor function to increase the life quality of patients. Altogether, we review synaptic activity modulation of the BDNF/TrkB/PKC signaling to sustain NMJ function, its and other kinases’ disturbances in ALS and physical and molecular mechanisms to delay disease progression.
Microstructure and Tribocorrosion Properties of Ni-Based Composite Coatings in Artificial Seawater
Authors: Li Bo , Li Cong , Gao Yimin , Guo Hongjian , Kang Yunchuan , Zhao Siyong
Published: December 2019

NiAl matrix composite coatings were prepared using atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). The mechanical and tribocorrosion properties of the NiAl matrix composite coatings, incorporated with Cr2O3 and Mo, were investigated, and the synergistic effect between corrosion and wear was studied in detail. The microhardness of the composite coating improved from 195.1 to 362.2 HV through the addition of Cr2O3 and Mo. Meanwhile, the Cr2O3 and Mo phases were distributed uniformly in the composite coatings. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks of Ni-based solid solution slightly shifted to the right after adding the Mo. This was probably due to the solid solution of Mo into the matrix. The NiAl–Cr2O3–Mo composite coating had the lowest corrosion current density, wear rate and friction coefficient of 9.487 × 10−6 A/cm2, 3.63 × 10−6 mm3/Nm, and 0.18, in all composite coatings as well as showing excellent tribocorrosion properties.
Influence of Growth Temperature of the Nucleation Layer on the Growth of InP on Si (001)
Authors: Yang Shizheng , Lv Hongliang , Ai Likun , Tian Fangkun , Yan Silu , Zhang Yuming
Published: December 2019

InP layers grown on Si (001) were achieved by the two-step growth method using gas source molecular beam epitaxy. The effects of growth temperature of nucleation layer on InP/Si epitaxial growth were investigated systematically. Cross-section morphology, surface morphology and crystal quality were characterized by scanning electron microscope images, atomic force microscopy images, high-resolution X-ray diffraction (XRD), rocking curves and reciprocal space maps. The InP/Si interface and surface became smoother and the XRD peak intensity was stronger with the nucleation layer grown at 350 °C. The Results show that the growth temperature of InP nucleation layer can significantly affect the growth process of InP film, and the optimal temperature of InP nucleation layer is required to realize a high-quality wafer-level InP layers on Si (001).
Effect of Chitosan–Tomato Plant Extract Edible Coating on the Quality, Shelf Life, and Antioxidant Capacity of Pork during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Chaparro-Hernández Saraí , Ruiz-Cruz Saul , Márquez-Ríos Enrique , Ornelas-Paz José de Jesús , Del-Toro-Sánchez Carmen L. , Gassos-Ortega Laura E. , Ocaño-Higuera Víctor M. , López-Mata Marco A. , Devora-Isiordia Germán E.
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of chitosan–tomato plant extract (C-TPE) edible coating (EC) on the physicochemical, microbiological, sensory, and antioxidant capacity changes of pork during storage. Edible coatings prepared with chitosan 1%, acetic acid 1%, glycerol, and TPE (0.1% and 0.3%) were tested. Slices of pork were submerged in different treatments (T1: C 1%; T2: C 1% + TPE 0.1%; T3: C 1% + TPE 0.3%; T4: control) and stored at 4 °C. The different treatments showed the best results in physicochemical and microbiological analyses, with reduced microbial population relative to the control. The highest antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content were shown in T3, and the overall acceptance was better in T2. The results show that the application of C with the addition of natural extracts, such as the tomato plant with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, can be an alternative method for preserving pork.
Comparison of Bubble Size Distributions Inferred from Acoustic, Optical Visualisation, and Laser Diffraction
Authors: Desai Pratik D , Ng Woon Choon , Hines Michael J , Riaz Yassir , Tesar Vaclav , Zimmerman William B
Published: December 2019

Bubble measurement has been widely discussed in the literature and comparison studies have been widely performed to validate the results obtained for various forms of bubble size inferences. This paper explores three methods used to obtain a bubble size distribution—optical detection, laser diffraction and acoustic inferences—for a bubble cloud. Each of these methods has advantages and disadvantages due to their intrinsic inference methodology or design flaws due to lack of specificity in measurement. It is clearly demonstrated that seeing bubbles and hearing them are substantially and quantitatively different. The main hypothesis being tested is that for a bubble cloud, acoustic methods are able to detect smaller bubbles compared to the other techniques, as acoustic measurements depend on an intrinsic bubble property, whereas photonics and optical methods are unable to “see” a smaller bubble that is behind a larger bubble. Acoustic methods provide a real-time size distribution for a bubble cloud, whereas for other techniques, appropriate adjustments or compromises must be made in order to arrive at robust data. Acoustic bubble spectrometry consistently records smaller bubbles that were not detected by the other techniques. The difference is largest for acoustic methods and optical methods, with size differences ranging from 5–79% in average bubble size. Differences in size between laser diffraction and optical methods ranged from 5–68%. The differences between laser diffraction and acoustic methods are less, and range between 0% (i.e., in agreement) up to 49%. There is a wider difference observed between the optical method, laser diffraction and acoustic methods whilst good agreement between laser diffraction and acoustic methods. The significant disagreement between laser diffraction and acoustic method (35% and 49%) demonstrates the hypothesis, as there is a higher proportion of smaller bubbles in these measurements (i.e., the smaller bubbles ‘hide’ during measurement via laser diffraction). This study, which shows that acoustic bubble spectrometry is able to detect smaller bubbles than laser diffraction and optical techniques. This is supported by heat and mass transfer studies that show enhanced performance due to increased interfacial area of microbubbles, compared to fine bubbles.
Growth of KDP: Fe3+ Crystals from Oversaturated Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Manomenova Vera , Rudneva Elena , Baskakova Svetlana , Voloshin Alexey
Published: December 2019

The KH2PO4 solubility curves in pure water and in water with the addition of 50 ppm Fe3+ were refined. The KH2PO4 and KH2PO4: Fe3+ solutions stability to supercooling was evaluated by polythermal studies of the width of metastable zone. It was shown that Fe3+ addition makes the solution more stable. A series of Fe3+ doped KDP crystals were grown at different temperature and hydrodynamic regimes at supersaturation level up to 0.45. Their real structure was studied by X-ray projection topography and, as a result, the most suitable growth conditions are chosen. The transmittance spectra of prism sectors with ferric iron concentrations CFe up to 102 ppm were obtained. It was found that KDP crystals with CFe >60 ppm can be used as optical filters for suppressing transmission in UV-C and UV-B ranges.
Shear Wave Elastography in Diagnosing Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Cotoi Laura , Borcan Florin , Sporea Ioan , Amzar Dana , Schiller Oana , Schiller Adalbert , Dehelean Cristina Adriana , Pop Gheorghe Nicusor , Stoian Dana
Published: December 2019

This study evaluates the diagnostic value of two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2 D-SWE) technique in the evaluation of hyperplastic parathyroid glands in cases with secondary and tertiary hyperparathyroidism. A total of 59 patients (end-stage renal disease, under supplemental dialysis program) with visible parathyroid hyperplastic glands on ultrasound, confirmed by biochemical assay and scintigraphy, were enrolled; they were examined on grayscale ultrasound and 2 D shear wave elastography. We determined the elasticity index (EI) in the parathyroid gland, thyroid parenchyma and surrounding muscles, and the elasticity ratio of hyperplastic parathyroid glands compared to muscle, specifically sternocleidomastoid muscle. Patients presented fibrocystic bone disease with secondary hyperparathyroidism induced by end-stage chronic kidney disease; being on prolonged chronic dialysis therapy, they had positive sestamibi scintigraphy and high values of serum parathormone (1141.04 pg/mL). Nodules placed posterior to the thyroid capsule that were cystic, had a hypoechoic aspect, and were homogenous with an independent afferent artery were found. Mean EI in the parathyroid gland was 7.83 kPa, the median value in thyroid parenchyma was 13.76 kPa, and mean muscle EI value was 15.78 kPa. The observed mean parathyroid/muscle SWE ratio was 0.5356 and the value for parathyroid/normal thyroid parenchyma was 0.5995. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, we found that EI below 9.74 kPa correctly identifies parathyroid tissue, with a sensitivity of 94.8%, specificity of 90.7%, and accuracy of 92.26% when compared to normal thyroid tissue. Compared with the muscle tissue, we identified that EI below 9.98 kPa has a sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 93.8%, 90.7%, and 91.75%, respectively. Ultrasound elastography is a helpful tool in identifying parathyroid hyperplasia in patients with chronic kidney disease. A cutoff value of 9.98 kPa can be used in 2 D-SWE for accurate diagnosis of parathyroid disease.
Magnetotelluric Signal-Noise Separation Using IE-LZC and MP
Authors: Zhang Xian , Li Diquan , Li Jin , Li Yong , Wang Jialin , Liu Shanshan , Xu Zhimin
Published: December 2019

Eliminating noise signals of the magnetotelluric (MT) method is bound to improve the quality of MT data. However, existing de-noising methods are designed for use in whole MT data sets, causing the loss of low-frequency information and severe mutation of the apparent resistivity-phase curve in low-frequency bands. In this paper, we used information entropy (IE), the Lempel–Ziv complexity (LZC), and matching pursuit (MP) to distinguish and suppress MT noise signals. Firstly, we extracted IE and LZC characteristic parameters from each segment of the MT signal in the time-series. Then, the characteristic parameters were input into the FCM clustering to automatically distinguish between the signal and noise. Next, the MP de-noising algorithm was used independently to eliminate MT signal segments that were identified as interference. Finally, the identified useful signal segments were combined with the denoised data segments to reconstruct the signal. The proposed method was validated through clustering analysis based on the signal samples collected at the Qinghai test site and the measured sites, where the results were compared to those obtained using the remote reference method and independent use of the MP method. The findings show that strong interference is purposefully removed, and the apparent resistivity-phase curve is continuous and stable. Moreover, the processed data can accurately reflect the geoelectrical information and improve the level of geological interpretation.
Low-Element Image Restoration Based on an Out-of-Order Elimination Algorithm
Authors: Xie Yaqin , Yu Jiayin , Chen Xinwu , Ding Qun , Wang Erfu
Published: December 2019

To reduce the consumption of receiving devices, a number of devices at the receiving end undergo low-element treatment (the number of devices at the receiving end is less than that at the transmitting ends). The underdetermined blind-source separation system is a classic low-element model at the receiving end. Blind signal extraction in an underdetermined system remains an ill-posed problem, as it is difficult to extract all the source signals. To realize fewer devices at the receiving end without information loss, this paper proposes an image restoration method for underdetermined blind-source separation based on an out-of-order elimination algorithm. Firstly, a chaotic system is used to perform hidden transmission of source signals, where the source signals can hardly be observed and confidentiality is guaranteed. Secondly, empirical mode decomposition is used to decompose and complement the missing observed signals, and the fast independent component analysis (FastICA) algorithm is used to obtain part of the source signals. Finally, all the source signals are successfully separated using the out-of-order elimination algorithm and the FastICA algorithm. The results show that the performance of the underdetermined blind separation algorithm is related to the configuration of the transceiver antenna. When the signal is 3 × 4 antenna configuration, the algorithm in this paper is superior to the comparison algorithm in signal recovery, and its separation performance is better for a lower degree of missing array elements. The end result is that the algorithms discussed in this paper can effectively and completely extract all the source signals.
Scaling Behaviour and Critical Phase Transitions in Integrated Information Theory
Authors: Aguilera Miguel
Published: December 2019

Integrated Information Theory proposes a measure of conscious activity ( Φ ), characterised as the irreducibility of a dynamical system to the sum of its components. Due to its computational cost, current versions of the theory (IIT 3.0) are difficult to apply to systems larger than a dozen units, and, in general, it is not well known how integrated information scales as systems grow larger in size. In this article, we propose to study the scaling behaviour of integrated information in a simple model of a critical phase transition: an infinite-range kinetic Ising model. In this model, we assume a homogeneous distribution of couplings to simplify the computation of integrated information. This simplified model allows us to critically review some of the design assumptions behind the measure and connect its properties with well-known phenomena in phase transitions in statistical mechanics. As a result, we point to some aspects of the mathematical definitions of IIT that 3.0 fail to capture critical phase transitions and propose a reformulation of the assumptions made by integrated information measures.
Conjugation of the Belt and Road Initiative and Eurasian Economic Union: Problems and Development Prospects
Authors: Mekhdiev Elnur , Pashkovskaya Irina , Takmakova Elena , Smirnova Olga , Sadykova Khadiya , Poltorykhina Svetlana
Published: December 2019

The study addresses the problems arising in association with the conjugation of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Belt and Road initiative. The hypothesis is that the conjugation is economically effective, and this is proven by the statistical analysis of trade and investment dynamics and buttressed by empirical observations. Based on this, the recommendations for the EAEU are given. The paper dismantles the problems arising in the sphere of security and peacekeeping and proposes a number of steps for ensuring peace and stable development in the region, implementing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) mechanism. The article highlights the main plans of the China–EAEU partnership and puts forward alternative cooperation strategies for the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The authors develop the most attractive plan for the EAEU and propose the best strategy for its implementation.
Exploring Conditions for Enhancing Critical Thinking in Networked Learning: Findings from a Secondary School Learning Analytics Environment
Authors: Koh Elizabeth , Jonathan Christin , Tan Jennifer Pei-Ling
Published: December 2019

Networked learning provides opportunities for learners to develop their critical thinking, an important 21st century competency, through dialogue with fellow learners to consider other perspectives and negotiate and critique ideas and arguments. However, much extant literature has not examined networked learning environments among younger learners nor the optimal conditions for enhancing critical thinking. Therefore, a study was carried out to investigate these conditions. A learning analytics networked learning environment was designed and 264 secondary three students participated in the 10-week long intervention as part of their English curriculum. Individual and collective social network metrics, critical reading scores, and self-reported survey data were used to quantitatively evaluate students’ critical reading performance in relation to their participation in networked learning. Results highlight several optimal conditions, notably that it is not just participation of the learner that enhances critical thinking but the learners’ reciprocity in replying and the distance of those posts in the network. Discussions and implications of the findings follow to provide insightful understanding of how the rich and complex settings of networked learning can enhance critical thinking capacities in secondary schooling.
Microfluidic Sensor Based on Composite Left-Right Handed Transmission Line
Authors: Radonić Vasa , Birgermajer Slobodan , Podunavac Ivana , Djisalov Mila , Gadjanski Ivana , Kitić Goran
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we propose a novel metamaterial-based microfluidic sensor that permits the monitoring of properties of the fluid flowing in the microfluidic reservoir embedded between the composite left–right handed (CLRH) microstrip line and the ground plane. The sensor’s working principle is based on the phase shift measurement of the two signals, the referent one that is guided through conventional microstrip line and measurement signal guided through the CLRH line. At the operating frequency of 1.275 GHz, the CLRH line supports electromagnetic waves with group and phase velocities that are antiparallel, and therefore the phase “advance” occurs in the case of CLRH line, while phase delay arises in the right-handed (RH) frequency band. The change of the fluid’s properties that flow in the microfluidic reservoir causes the change of effective permittivity of the microstrip substrate, and subsequently the phase velocity changes, as well as the phase shift. This effect was used in the design of the microfluidic sensor for the measurement of characteristics of the fluid that flows in the microfluidic reservoir placed under the CLRH line. The complete measurement system was developed including the Wilkinson power divider that splits the signal between conventional RH and CLRH section, transmission lines with the microfluidic reservoirs, and a detection circuit for phase shift measurement. Measurement results for different fluids confirm that the proposed sensor is characterized by relatively high sensitivity and good linearity (R2 = 0.94). In this study, the practical application of the proposed sensor is demonstrated for the biomass estimation inside the microfluidic bioreactors, which are used for the cultivation of MRC-5 fibroblasts.
Electroporation Modelling of Irregular Nucleated Cells Including Pore Radius Dynamics
Authors: Chiapperino Michele Alessandro , Bia Pietro , Lamacchia Claudio Maria , Mescia Luciano
Published: December 2019

When high-amplitude, short-duration electric pulses are applied to cells the permeability of their membranes is increased. From the biological point of view, the phenomenon is quite well understood, however, it is important to develop accurate numerical models to investigate the electroporation effectiveness in terms of electrical, geometrical and physical parameters. To this aim, in this paper, we illustrate a spatio–temporal, non-linear, and dispersive multiphysics approach to study the electroporation in irregularly nucleated shaped cells. The model couples the Maxwell equations with the partial differential equation describing the creation and closure of pores as well as the evolution of the pore size. The dispersive properties of biological media and the irregular geometries of the membranes have been described using the multi-relaxation Debye-based relationship and the Gielis superformula, respectively. Numerical simulations highlight the importance to include in the model the spatial and temporal evolution of the pore radius. In fact, the obtained numerical results show significant discrepancies between our model and the one in which the pore radius dynamics is negligible.
Wearable Sensors to Characterize the Autonomic Nervous System Correlates of Food-Like Odors Perception: A Pilot Study
Authors: Tonacci Alessandro , Di Monte Jessica , Meucci Maria Beatrice , Sansone Francesco , Pala Anna Paola , Billeci Lucia , Conte Raffaele
Published: December 2019

Background: The sense of smell has been recently recognized as one of the most important sensory features in the human being, representing a reliable biomarker for a number of clinical conditions. The relationship between olfactory function and the person’s attitude towards food has frequently been investigated, often using questionnaires. The administration of minimally invasive methods for characterizing autonomic nervous system (ANS) functionality could help in objectivizing such measurements. Methods: The present study assessed ANS activation through the analysis of the electrocardiogram (ECG) and galvanic skin response (GSR) signals, in response to olfactory stimuli using non-invasive wearable devices. The ANS activation was also studied with respect to the odor familiarity, as well as with other olfactory and food dimensions (e.g., odor identification, odor pleasantness, food neophobia). Results: We demonstrated a significant activation of the ANS, in particular of its sympathetic branch, during the olfactory stimulation, with the ECG signal seen as more sensitive to detect ANS response to moderate olfactory stimuli rather than the GSR. Conclusions: When applied to a greater number of subjects, or to specific groups of patients, this methodology could represent a promising, reliable addition to diagnostic methods currently used in clinical settings.
WSN Hardware for Automotive Applications: Preliminary Results for the Case of Public Transportation
Authors: Baire Matteo , Melis Andrea , Lodi Matteo Bruno , Dachena Chiara , Fanti Alessandro , Farris Simona , Pisanu Tonino , Mazzarella Giuseppe
Published: December 2019

The ubiquitous nature and great potential of Wireless Sensors Network has not yet been fully exploited in automotive applications. This work deals with the choice of the cost-effective hardware required to face the challenges and issues proposed by the new trend in the development of intelligent transportation systems. With this aim, a preliminary WSN architecture is proposed. Several commercially available open-source platforms are compared and the Raspberry Pi stood out as a suitable and viable solution. The sensing layer is designed with two goals. Firstly, accelerometric, temperature, and relative humidity sensors were integrated on a dedicated PCB to test if mechanical or environmental stresses during bus rides could be harmful to the device or to its performances. The physical quantities are monitored automatically to alert the driver, thus improving the quality of service. Then, the rationale and functioning of the management and service layer is presented. The proposed cost-effective WSN node was employed and tested to transmit messages and videos, while investigating if any quantitative relationship exists between these operations and the environmental and operative conditions experienced by the hardware.
A Comparative Study between Traditional Backup Generator Systems and Renewable Energy Based Microgrids for Power Resilience Enhancement of a Local Clinic
Authors: Faraji Jamal , Babaei Masoud , Bayati Navid , A.Hejazi Maryam
Published: December 2019

Extreme weather events lead to electrical network failures, damages, and long-lasting blackouts. Therefore, enhancement of the resiliency of electrical systems during emergency situations is essential. By using the concept of standby redundancy, this paper proposes two different energy systems for increasing load resiliency during a random blackout. The main contribution of this paper is the techno-economic and environmental comparison of two different resilient energy systems. The first energy system utilizes a typical traditional generator (TG) as a standby component for providing electricity during the blackouts and the second energy system is a grid-connected microgrid consisting of photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BES) as a standby component. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to investigate the survivability of both energy systems during the blackouts. The objective function minimizes total net present cost (NPC) and cost of energy (COE) by considering the defined constraints of the system for increasing the resiliency. Simulations are performed by HOMER, and results show that for having almost the same resilience enhancement in both systems, the second system, which is a grid-connected microgrid, indicates lower NPC and COE compared to the first system. More comparison details are shown in this paper to highlight the effectiveness and weakness of each resilient energy system.
Analysis of a PM Linear Generator with Double Translators for Complementary Energy Generation Platform
Authors: Zhang Jing , Yu Haitao , Shi Zhenchuan
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a tubular permanent magnet (PM) linear generator (TPMLG) with one single stator and double translators for complementary energy generation platform. Moreover, groups of Halbach PM magnetized structure for double translators is applied to increase the radial air gap flux density and to decrease the axial air gap flux density in the TPMLG. Based on the linear generator model and finite element method (FEM), the radial air gap flux density and axial air gap flux density in the two translator of the TPMLG is calculated and analyzed comparatively. Magnet field distribution of the TPMLG with groups of Halbach PM magnetized structure is illustrated, no-load performance at constant velocity and at sine velocity is analyzed, respectively, and comparing with the radial magnetization PM, the detent force is analyzed contrastively. Finally, this study proposed an experiment system consisting of a TPMLG with a single translator, a cylindrical float and wave flume to verify the analysis results. Through comparative analyses, the proposed TPMLG with double translators and groups of Halbach PM magnetized structure fulfill the requirements of complementary energy generation platform systems.
Indoor Air Quality Assessment: Comparison of Ventilation Scenarios for Retrofitting Classrooms in a Hot Climate
Authors: Calama-González Carmen María , León-Rodríguez Ángel Luis , Suárez Rafael
Published: December 2019

Current energy efficiency policies in buildings foster the promotion of energy retrofitting of the existing stock. In southern Spain, the most extensive public sector is that of educational buildings, which is especially subject to significant internal loads due to high occupancy. A large fraction of the energy retrofit strategies conducted to date have focused on energy aspects and indoor thermal comfort, repeatedly disregarding indoor air quality criteria. This research assesses indoor air quality in a school located in the Mediterranean area, with the objective of promoting different ventilation scenarios, based on occupancy patterns and carbon dioxide levels monitored on site. Results show that manual ventilation cannot guarantee minimum indoor quality levels following current standards. A constant ventilation based on CO2 levels allows 15% more thermal comfort hours a year to be reached, compared to CO2-based optimized demand-controlled ventilation. Nevertheless, the latter ensures 35% annual energy savings, compared to a constant CO2-based ventilation, and 37% more annual energy savings over that of a constant ventilation rate of outdoor air per person.
The Influence of Torrefaction Temperature on Hydrophobic Properties of Waste Biomass from Food Processing
Authors: Dyjakon Arkadiusz , Noszczyk Tomasz , Smędzik Martyna
Published: December 2019

The annual potential of waste biomass production from food processing in Europe is 16.9 million tonnes. Unfortunately, most of these organic wastes are utilized without the energy gain, mainly due to the high moisture content and the ability to the fast rotting and decomposition. One of the options to increase its value in terms of energy applications is to valorize its properties. Torrefaction process is one of the pre-treatment technology of raw biomass that increases the quality of the fuel, especially in the context of resistance to moisture absorption. However, little is known about the influence of torrefaction temperature on the degree of valorization of some specific waste biomass. The aim of this paper was to analyze the influence of the temperature of the torrefaction on the hydrophobic properties of waste biomass, such as black currant pomace, apple pomace, orange peels, walnut shells, and pumpkin seeds. The torrefaction process was carried out at temperatures of 200 °C, 220 °C, 240 °C, 260 °C, 280 °C, and 300 °C. The hydrophobic properties were analyzed using the water drop penetration time (WDPT) test. The torrefied waste biomass was compared with the raw material dried at 105 °C. The obtained results revealed that subjecting the biomass to the torrefaction process improved its hydrophobic properties. Biomass samples changed their hydrophobic properties from hydrophilic to extremely hydrophobic depending on the temperature of the process. Apple pomace was the most hydrophilic sample; its water drop penetration was under 60 s. Black currant and apple pomaces reached extremely hydrophobic properties at a temperature of 300 °C, only. In the case of orange peels, walnut shells, and pumpkin seeds, already at the temperature of 220 °C, the samples were characterized by severely hydrophobic properties with a penetration time over 1000 s. At the temperature of 260 °C, orange peels, walnut shells, and pumpkin seeds reached extremely hydrophobic properties. Furthermore, in most cases, the increase of torrefaction temperature improved the resistance to moisture absorption, which is probably related to the removal of hydroxyl groups and structural changes occurring during this thermal process.
Sub-Sonic Linear Synchronous Motors Using Superconducting Magnets for the Hyperloop
Authors: Choi Su Y. , Lee Chang Y. , Jo Jung M. , Choe Jae H. , Oh Ye Jun , Lee Kwan S. , Lim Jung Y.
Published: December 2019

Sub-sonic linear synchronous motors (LSMs) with high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets, which aim to accelerate to a velocity of 1200 km/h in the near-vacuum tubes of 0.001 atm for the Hyperloop, are newly introduced in this paper. By the virtue of the combination of LSMs and electrodynamic suspensions (EDSs) with HTS magnets, a large air-gap of 24 cm, low magnetic resistance forces of below 2 kN, and the efficient as well as practical design of propulsion power supply systems of around 10 MVA could be guaranteed at a sub-sonic velocity. The characteristics of the proposed LSMs with HTS magnets, in addition, are widely analyzed with theories and simulation results. Optimal design methods for LSMs and inverters, which account for more than half of the total construction cost, are introduced with design guidelines and examples for the commercialization version of the Hyperloop. At the end of the paper, in order to verify the proposed design models of the sub-sonic LSMs, two different test-beds—i.e., 6 m long static and 20 m long dynamic propulsion test-beds—are fabricated, and it is found that the experimental results are well matched with proposed design models as well as simulation results; therefore, the design methods constitute guidelines for the design of sub-sonic LSMs for the Hyperloop.
Electromagnetic Field Analysis and Design of an Efficient Outer Rotor Inductor in the Low-Speed Section for Driving Electric Vehicles
Authors: Hwang Myeong-Hwan , Lee Hae-Sol , Yang Se-Hyeon , Cha Hyun-Rok , Park Sung-Jun
Published: December 2019

Currently, the eco-friendly vehicle market is growing continuously. In the automobile industry, various electric vehicle models are being developed, and several technological innovations are being made. Certain limited vehicle types, such as passenger cars, are being converted to electric vehicles; moreover, a variety of small electric vehicles, including smart mobility vehicles, are being developed. The driving motor of an electric vehicle, e.g., a brushless Direct Current motor (BLDC), is one of the key components that determine its driving performance. However, since the recent hike in prices of the rare earth magnets used in BLDCs, the development of induction motor with lower cost and a simple product structure has become essential. Therefore, this study proposes an optimized design for an outer rotor induction motor with high efficiency in the low-speed section for electric vehicles. The motor designed in this study is efficient for speeds less than 1000 rpm, and our experimental results prove that the prototypes can provide up to 84.8% efficiency. This optimized motor is expected to have widespread application in the eco-friendly vehicle market.
Novel Remanence Determination for Power Transformers Based on Magnetizing Inductance Measurements
Authors: Wei Chen , Li Xianqiang , Yang Ming , Ma Zhiyuan , Hou Hui
Published: December 2019

The remanence (residual flux) in the core of power transformers needs to be determined in advance to eliminate the inrush current during the process of re-energization. In this paper, a novel method is proposed to determine the residual flux based on the relationship between residual flux and the measured magnetizing inductance. The paper shows physical, numerical, and analytical explanations on the phenomenon that the magnetizing inductance decreases with the increase of residual flux under low excitation. Numerical simulations are performed by EMTP (Electro-Magnetic Transient Program) on a 1 kVA power transformer under different amounts of residual flux. The inductance–remanence curves are nearly the same when testing current changes. Laboratory experiments conducted on the same transformer are in line with the numerical simulations. Furthermore, numerical simulation results on a 240 MVA are reported to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.