bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Biofilm Potential of Secondary Metabolites from Microbes: A clinical approach
Authors: Chakraborty Tamoghna , Chakraborty Tamalika
Published: October 2024

The growing field of anti-biofilm research focuses on secondary metabolites from microorganisms, revealing a promising approach for the development of innovative medicinal and biocontrol methodologies to combat biofilm-related problems. Biofilms, complex conglomerates of microorganisms encased in a self-secreted polymeric scaffold, present significant challenges in medical, industrial, agricultural, and marine environments due to their resistance to standard antimicrobial interventions and ability to evade host immune responses. This study emphasizes the critical role of secondary metabolites derived from actinomycetes, fungi, and marine microorganisms in disassembling pre-formed biofilm architectures, inhibiting quorum sensing pathways, and impeding microbiological entity attachment to substrates. Such discoveries emphasize the potential of these organic compounds in developing novel ways to mitigate the harmful effects of biofilms. The potential for using anti-biofilm secondary metabolites is enormous, with significant benefits in the medical sector by potentially reducing the occurrence and severity of biofilm-related infections through their inclusion into coatings for medical devices, oral hygiene products, and healing applications. In the field of agriculture, the use of these metabolites has the potential to improve plant defense and soil vitality, supporting ecologically responsible farming methods by reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals. The growing exploration of microbial diversity, particularly in understudied or harsh habitats, highlights the potential for the identification of novel bioactive chemicals
Criticisms of positive theory in the light of international developments
Authors: Chatterji Dr. Souvik , Basu Ahana , Samaddar Samrat
Published: October 2024

Positivist criminology assumes that criminal behaviors have its own distinct set of characteristics. As a result, most criminological research conducted within a positivist paradigm has sought to identify key differences between ‘criminals’ and ‘non-criminals’. This paper examines the criticism as these theories were propounded more than 200 years ago
Investigation and Optimization of CO2 Laser Cutting Process on Stainless Steel using DOE technique to analyze the Influence of Process Parameters on the Dimensional Accuracy & Surface Roughness
Authors: Ingole Gautam Yeshwant , Karwande Ravindra Laxman , Hameed Mohamad Javed Abdul
Published: October 2024

Metal cutting industries face the challenge of enhancing productivity and sheet metal part quality, especially regarding dimensional accuracy and surface finish. Laser cutting, widely employed across various sectors, offers precision and flexibility but poses challenges like heat generation and oxidation. High pressure and variable cutting velocity result in heat buildup at the torch-sheet interface, causing issues such as burning, roughness, and burr formation, notably in thick stainless-steel sheets. Stainless steel, an essential engineering material, presents challenges for cutting using oxy-fuel methods due to its high melting point and the formation of tenacious oxides. However, laser cutting emerges as a viable solution for this task. This study focuses on analysing the impact of process parameters in a CO2 laser cutting system on the surface characteristics of 5mm Stainless Steel (SS) sheets (ASTM 304). The primary objective is to optimize laser power, cutting speed, and gas pressure to achieve the desired surface roughness. By employing Design of Experiments (DOE), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Response Surface Methodology (RSM), this research scrutinizes the influence of laser cutting variables and identifies the optimal values for surface roughness. The findings underscore the significant impact of laser power on outcomes, compared to cutting speed and gas pressure.
Development of Powder Metallurgy Setup for Preparation of Specimens as per ASTM Standards
Authors: Ramesh Dr. D , M.G Yathish.
Published: October 2024

The development of Powder metallurgy to revolutionize manufacturing processes through the utilization of metal powders and its alloys. This innovative approach involves the production of intricate components by compacting and sintering fine metal powders. The development of powder metallurgy setup encompasses a comprehensive exploration of powder metallurgy techniques, emphasizing the advantages of this method, such as enhanced material utilization, reduced waste, and improved mechanical properties. The work begins with an in-depth analysis of various metal powders, their characteristics, and the selection criteria for specific applications and the intricacies of powder compaction, studying parameters like pressure, temperature, and dwell time to optimize the forming process. Additionally, sintering parameters are meticulously examined to achieve the desired mechanical properties in the final specimen are fabricated as per ASTM Standards
Some Multicolor Night Lighting Effects Through Edge Detection Techniques
Authors: Kundu Dr.Pradeep
Published: October 2024

Various LED and electronic circuit based colorful night lighting effects are available in the markets that are seen in various festivals as a decoration. Here author has produced sixmulticolor night lighting effects through computer generated algorithms especiallyby edge-detection techniques from a sample RGB color image
Diversified portfolio optimization under deep learning prediction and heuristics optimization
Authors: Noh Yoochan
Published: October 2024

In the financial market volatility and uncertainty are the biggest challenges to the proper handling of the portfolio of stocks. Much research has been done on portfolio optimization using a meta-heuristic approach. However, the difficulty still lies in the allocation of stocks in the portfolio to simultaneously maximize the return and minimize risk in diversified stock allocation. In this study, a diversified portfolio with 10 stocks is randomly considered from the semiconductor industry, car industry, pharmaceuticals, retail chain, and service industry. Since the stocks are from different sectors, the covariance analysis is also done. The price prediction and subsequently the return of the portfolio is done with LSTM and Attention mechanism models. After that, the multi-objective optimization is done with mean-variance optimization, genetic algorithm, and particleswarm optimization. The PSO always shows a higher portfolio balance in terms of the Sharpe ratio, but the predictive model of pricing under an attention-based mechanism outperforms the general LSTM model. Comparative analysis and managerial insights for the portfolio managers are also provided based on the results obtained
The Role of Artificial Intelligence on Higher Education in India and its Adoption in Higher Education Institution
Authors: Enayathulla Dr. Nafeza , Krishna M R Ms Kumari
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced and is poised to transform various sectors, including education. This paper explores the potential impacts of AI on education, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. The analysis covers AI-driven personalised learning, intelligent tutoring systems, administrative automation, and the ethical considerations related to AI in education. By examining current implementations and future prospects, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how AI can reshape educational landscapes, improve learning outcomes, and address existing challenges. This review paper attempts to broaden the body of knowledge concerning the impact of technological innovation on the education sector by presenting a systematic review along with a set of paths for future research. While recognizing AI as a positive disruptive force, we also highlight its limitations, potential threats to privacy and security, as well as ramifications of biases, misuse, and dissemination of misinformation. Finally, the article delineates the gaps in the research and formulates questions aimed at advancing knowledge in AI Education. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the role of AI in higher education in India, highlighting both the potential benefits and the critical challenges. Further research and practical implementations will be crucial in navigating this transformative journey
Hybrid DC-DC Converter with Dual Switch Topology for Solar
Authors: Raja Kishan Kumar , Agrawal Dr. Rakeshwri , Agrawal Dr. Deepak , Tyagi Nitin
Published: October 2024

The battery-operated vehicles, popularly known as EV has reduced the carbon emission tremendously in transportation industry. The batteries are charged either through the grid or the best option is hybrid green resources like PV, fuel cell, Super capacitors, etc., For smooth functioning of hybrid resources, Bi-directional DC-DC converters are primarily required so as to maintain the DC-bus voltage both at load terminal as well as at input terminal where PV-battery are connected. In this paper performance analysis of a dual switch DCconverter is presented with bi-directional topology. The converter designed to perform buck-boost operation with wide range of voltage diversity. While combining hybrid resources, environmental constraints of PV is also considered and MPPT is designed with neural network tuning to obtain the maximum operating point under variable irradiance conditions. This will help in extending the efficiency of the DC-converter proposed. The results are obtained in MATLAB simulation tool.
Structural Damage Detection in Plates Using Wavelet Theories
Authors: Khan Toqir , Ahmad Esrar , Swarnkar Monika
Published: October 2024

The study of structural damage detection in thin plates using wavelet theories and transforms is motivated by the critical need for robust methodologies to ensure the safety and reliability of civil and mechanical infrastructure. Traditional methods of damage detection, reliant on visual inspections or conventional sensors, often fall short in capturing subtle or localized damage, thereby necessitating more advanced techniques. In recent years, wavelet analysis has emerged as a promising tool due to its ability to provide multi-resolution analysis, capturing both global and localized damage, as well as its capability to accurately capture transient dynamic responses. The primary objective of this thesis is to develop a comprehensive methodology for structural damage detection in plates using wavelet theories and transforms. This involves investigating the theoretical foundations of wavelet analysis, developing algorithms and computational tools for wavelet-based damage detection, conducting experimental studies to validate the methodology, and comparing its effectiveness with conventional methods. The scope of the research encompasses various types of damage, including cracks, delamination, and degradation, in thin plates, with consideration given to different plate geometries and boundary conditions. Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of engineering structures. By continuously monitoring the condition of structures, SHM systems can detect damage early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent catastrophic failures. Moreover, SHM facilitates cost savings, extends the service life of structures, reduces environmental impact, and enables informed decision-making regarding maintenance and resource allocation. State-of-the-art SHM techniques include sensor networks, non-destructive testing, machine learning, wireless monitoring, acoustic emission testing, fiber-optic sensing, and digital twins. These techniques have revolutionized the field, enabling more effective monitoring and maintenance of structures, thereby enhancing safety and sustainability in the built environmen
FIDO2: A comprehensive study on passwordless authentication
Authors: Mitra Aditya , Ghosh Anisha
Published: October 2024

The twenty first century is marked as the digital era. It involves the use of computers and other devices like smartphones in every aspect of life. It is becoming increasingly important to understand the usages of such devices and to protect ourselves from malicious actors on digital platforms. The concept of authentication is not new, it started with Fernando Corbató in the 1960s when he developed the system of passwords for the MIT Compatible Time-Sharing System (CTSS) [1]. However, we have come a long way from using passwords and personal identification numbers (PINs) since they have fallen weak in the face of modern adversaries and attacks like phishing. This paper presents and discusses the FIDO2 standard for passwordless authentication for the protection of digital resources and assets. FIDO2 standard uses cryptographic challenge-response system combined with trusted computing to make the process of authentication truly Phishing resistant [2]. This paper presents a comprehensive view of FIDO2 specification standards and implementation
Sustainable Cement Concrete from GGBS and Demolished Waste
Authors: Malviya Rahul , Chaturvedi Shivam
Published: October 2024

In today’s fast-paced era of growth and innovation, the production of waste materials is increasing, while natural resources are becoming scarce. This creates an urgent need to reutilize waste materials. Within the construction industry, debris from demolished structures can be used for smaller construction works and road projects. This study explores the uses of demolished aggregate, GGBS, and admixtures in different proportions of M30 grade of concrete. Demolished aggregate, substituted natural coarse aggregate at 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% levels and then recycled concrete was then compared to that of traditional concrete having 0% demolished waste also cement was partially replaced by GGBS at 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%, with a water-reducing admixture added, 2% by weight of cement. A physical test such as toughness, workability and abrasion tests as to be performed. Concrete cubes were cast and evaluated for compressive strength at 7 and 28 days, as well as flexural strength at 28 days
An Experimental Investigation of MechanicalProperties of GeoPolymer Concrete by Using Ggbs, Granite Powder, Marble Powder
Authors: Meenakshi Butcha
Published: October 2024

The usage of concrete is increasing day by day. In concrete, Cement is a binding material, now it is time to search for alternative sustainable materials to use all sorts of indigenous waste products byproducts and cheaply available minerals in the concrete. The new generation concrete has been developed such as geo-polymer concrete, amorphous alumina silicates cementations material which uses waste products of industries, and also alkaline solutions such as sodium silicate(Na2SiO3), sodium hydroxide (Naoh) as their binding material .In this study Geo -polymer concrete with Granite powder, Marble powder,GGBS are chosen. Mechanical and durabilityproperties are investigated through compressive and tensile strength tests after 7 and 28 days. RCPT test only 28 days
Soul as the Place of Experience. The Case of Enjoy Brand
Authors: Trabalza Gioia , Scozzese Giancarlo
Published: October 2024

The modern world seems to encourage man to be increasingly rational, nearly robotic; just think of the constant scrolling of information in electronic devices or the information overload of human brains. However, humans are emotional creatures by nature; indeed, feelings and emotions need a voice to be expressed, so marketing uses this fragile and beautiful part of the human being to evoke them, to bring them to light, to engage consumers not only by entering their wallets, but also their innermost sphere, the soul. The aim of this paper is to search for hope and a ray of positivity in a world that is so highly consumption-oriented; therefore, it will not refer to pervasive advertising, subliminal messages, but will try to find a product or service to buy that is exciting, that brings a memory or a stimulus of happiness, that can make the consumer feel conscious and protagonist of the purchase. In this regard, it concerns experiential marketing. This article will analyze what experiential marketing is, what are the fundamental tools to create a unique and unforgettable experience, the importance of the choice of environment and finally the case study of the Enjoy project, a pop-up store focused on engaging the emotions and inner world of the consumer in an experiential journey
Cascaded Multilevel Inverter with Reduced Switch Count for Solar Generation
Authors: Gupta Rishi , Mishra Renuka P. , Sonkar Dr. Shivkumar , Chouhan Sakshee
Published: October 2024

Usage of Multi-Level Inverters (MLI) are at its boom, since they have low harmonics in the output when designed with higher level, high efficiency and can be designed as per the requirement. Particularly for renewable integration. The main concern for designing MLI is its high component counts with high-level output. To deal with this problem the conventional topologies of MLI are converted into modular structure to obtain the high-level output with reduced component count. For this cascaded structure is best suited since its each unit are separate which can be easily molded to design the required modular structure. In this work 19-level cascaded topology of inverter for solar power integration into the AC-system. The topology has reduced switch count with only 12-switches and four DC-sources which very low as compared to the conventional topology which require 36 switches and 9 DC-sources. The system is designed in MATLAB environment and the gate pulses for the switches are designed using level-shifted sinusoidal pulse width modulation technique which is simple in design which can be easy to implement at high level for the system with complicated structure
Early diagenetic greigite as an indicator of paleosalinity changes in the middle Miocene Paratethys Sea of central Europe
Authors: Liu Suzhen , Krijgsman Wout , Dekkers Mark J. , Palcu Dan
Published: July 2017

The Miocene epicontinental Paratethys Sea of central Eurasia has experienced multiple restriction and reconnection events to the open ocean. Magnetostratigraphy is an important dating tool to better understand the temporal and spatial paleoenvironmental variations associated with these changes. Magnetostratigraphy in the Paratethys domain, however, is complicated by the presence of greigite (Fe3S4). Here we report rock magnetic and X‐ray fluorescence data of the Tisa section (Romania) which was previously magnetostratigraphically dated at the middle Miocene (base at 12.8 Ma and top at 12.2 Ma). This section comprises the Badenian Sarmatian Extinction Event (BSEE), which is marked by a major salinity change from marine to brackish environments, related to the opening of the connection between the Central and the Eastern Paratethys basins. In the marine Badenian sediments below the BSEE, the pyritization process is shown to be complete because of abundant sulfate supply. In the brackish Sarmatian deposits, four intervals with early diagenetic greigite are observed, and linked to insufficient sulfate in the water column. These four greigite intervals appear to correspond to maxima in the ∼100 kyr eccentricity cycle. We propose that increased fresh water from the Eastern Paratethys basin during eccentricity maxima restricted the sulfate availability in the Tisa area, leading to a reduced HS− production and enhanced greigite preservation. The early diagenetic formation of greigite enables a quasi syn‐depositional recording of the paleomagnetic field, which allows reliable paleomagnetic dating in this section. Our results further suggest greigite as a potential indicator for salinity changes during marine/brackish transitions.
Pyrocumulonimbus lightning and fire ignition on Black Saturday in southeast Australia
Authors: Dowdy Andrew J. , Fromm Michael D. , McCarthy Nicholas
Published: July 2017

A number of devastating wildfires occurred in southeast Australia on 7 February 2009, colloquially known as Black Saturday. Atmospheric responses to this extreme fire event are investigated here with a focus on convective processes associated with fire activity (i.e., pyroconvection). We examine six different fire complexes on Black Saturday, finding three clearly distinct pyrocumulonimbus storms, the largest of which reached heights of 15 km on that day and generated hundreds of lightning strokes. The first lightning stroke was recorded near the largest fire complex 5 h after fire ignition. One of the pyrocumulonimbus storms was initiated close to midnight due to mesoscale influences, consistent with extreme fire behavior observed at that time for that particular fire. As another example of fire‐atmosphere interactions, a fire that started late on Black Saturday is examined in relation to ignition caused by pyrogenic lightning, with implications for understanding the maximum rate of spread of a wildfire. Results are discussed in relation to another pyrocumulonimbus event associated with the 2003 Canberra fires. Our findings are intended to provide a greater understanding of pyroconvection and fire‐atmosphere feedback processes, as well as help enhance wildfire response capabilities. We also demonstrate the potential for using lightning, radar, and satellite remote sensing in combination with thermodynamic analyses as well as synoptic and mesoscale dynamics to provide enhanced real‐time guidance for dangerous fire conditions associated with pyroconvection, as well as for the risk of new fire ignitions from pyrogenic lightning.
Enhanced isoprenoid production from xylose by engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kwak Suryang , Kim Soo Rin , Xu Haiqing , Zhang Guo‐Chang , Lane Stephan , Kim Heejin , Jin Yong‐Su
Published: July 2017

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has limited capabilities for producing fuels and chemicals derived from acetyl‐CoA, such as isoprenoids, due to a rigid flux partition toward ethanol during glucose metabolism. Despite numerous efforts, xylose fermentation by engineered yeast harboring heterologous xylose metabolic pathways was not as efficient as glucose fermentation for producing ethanol. Therefore, we hypothesized that xylose metabolism by engineered yeast might be a better fit for producing non‐ethanol metabolites. We indeed found that engineered S. cerevisiae on xylose showed higher expression levels of the enzymes involved in ethanol assimilation and cytosolic acetyl‐CoA synthesis than on glucose. When genetic perturbations necessary for overproducing squalene and amorphadiene were introduced into engineered S. cerevisiae capable of fermenting xylose, we observed higher titers and yields of isoprenoids under xylose than glucose conditions. Specifically, co‐overexpression of a truncated HMG1 (tHMG1) and ERG10 led to substantially higher squalene accumulation under xylose than glucose conditions. In contrast to glucose utilization producing massive amounts of ethanol regardless of aeration, xylose utilization allowed much less amounts of ethanol accumulation, indicating ethanol is simultaneously re‐assimilated with xylose consumption and utilized for the biosynthesis of cytosolic acetyl‐CoA. In addition, xylose utilization by engineered yeast with overexpression of tHMG1, ERG10, and ADS coding for amorphadiene synthase, and the down‐regulation of ERG9 resulted in enhanced amorphadiene production as compared to glucose utilization. These results suggest that the problem of the rigid flux partition toward ethanol production in yeast during the production of isoprenoids and other acetyl‐CoA derived chemicals can be bypassed by using xylose instead of glucose as a carbon source. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2581–2591. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TP53 alterations in Wilms tumour represent progression events with strong intratumour heterogeneity that are closely linked but not limited to anaplasia
Authors: Wegert Jenny , Vokuhl Christian , Ziegler Barbara , Ernestus Karen , Leuschner Ivo , Furtwängler Rhoikos , Graf Norbert , Gessler Manfred
Published: July 2017

TP53 mutations have been associated with anaplasia in Wilms tumour, which conveys a high risk for relapse and fatal outcome. Nevertheless, TP53 alterations have been reported in no more than 60% of anaplastic tumours, and recent data have suggested their presence in tumours that do not fulfil the criteria for anaplasia, questioning the clinical utility of TP53 analysis. Therefore, we characterized the TP53 status in 84 fatal cases of Wilms tumour, irrespective of histological subtype. We identified TP53 alterations in at least 90% of fatal cases of anaplastic Wilms tumour, and even more when diffuse anaplasia was present, indicating a very strong if not absolute coupling between anaplasia and deregulation of p53 function. Unfortunately, TP53 mutations do not provide additional predictive value in anaplastic tumours since the same mutation rate was found in a cohort of non‐fatal anaplastic tumours. When classified according to tumour stage, patients with stage I diffuse anaplastic tumours still had a high chance of survival (87%), but this rate dropped to 26% for stages II–IV. Thus, volume of anaplasia or possible spread may turn out to be critical parameters. Importantly, among non‐anaplastic fatal tumours, 26% had TP53 alterations, indicating that TP53 screening may identify additional cases at risk. Several of these non‐anaplastic tumours fulfilled some criteria for anaplasia, for example nuclear unrest, suggesting that such partial phenotypes should be under special scrutiny to enhance detection of high‐risk tumours via TP53 screening. A major drawback is that these alterations are secondary changes that occur only later in tumour development, leading to striking intratumour heterogeneity that requires multiple biopsies and analysis guided by histological criteria. In conclusion, we found a very close correlation between histological signs of anaplasia and TP53 alterations. The latter may precede development of anaplasia and thereby provide diagnostic value pointing towards aggressive disease.
Disturbance, Trait Similarities, and Trait Advantages Facilitate the Invasion Success of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb.
Authors: Wang Tong , Hu Jiangtao , Gao Yuanyuan , Yu Dan , Liu Chunhua
Published: July 2017

Riparian wetlands suffer serious plant invasion. Natural habitats and disturbance are two prominent environmental factors affecting the invasion process of exotic riparian invaders. In this study, a noxious invasive riparian plant, Alternanthera philoxeroides, and its native congener, Alternanthera sessilis were cultivated in three different riparian soils with different statuses of disturbance by cow manure addition. After harvest, we measured plant morphological traits including the internode length (INL), rooted node number (RNN), specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf mass ratio (LMR), and physiological traits including the maximal quantum yield (Fv/Fm), chlorophyll content (Ct), leaf nitrogen content (Nmass), leaf carbon/nitrogen ratio (C/N ratio), leaf construction cost per leaf area (CCarea), and non‐structural carbohydrate content (NSCC). Fertilization was found to improve the performances of most traits for both species similarly. Both species shared some similarities in trait values of SLA, LMR, CCarea and NSCC, and trait plasticity in NSCC in unfertilized sediments and SLA, LMR, C/N ratio, and CCarea in fertilized sediments. Moreover, compared to A. sessilis, A. philoxeroides showed some advantages in trait values of RNN in unfertilized sediments and Ct, Nmass, and C/N ratio in the most fertile treatments, and trait plasticity in INL, RNN, SLA, Ct, Nmass, and CCarea across different sediments. In conclusion, the disturbance, trait similarities, and trait advantages likely promote the invasion success of A. philoxeroides.
Temperature, energy metabolism, and adaptive divergence in two oyster subspecies
Authors: Li Ao , Li Li , Song Kai , Wang Wei , Zhang Guofan
Published: July 2017

Comparisons of related species that have diverse spatial distributions provide an efficient way to investigate adaptive evolution in face of increasing global warming. The oyster subjected to high environmental selections is a model species as sessile marine invertebrate. This study aimed to detect the adaptive divergence of energy metabolism in two oyster subspecies from the genus Crassostrea—C. gigas gigas and C. gigas angulata—which are broadly distributed along the northern and southern coasts of China, respectively. We examined the effects of acute thermal stress on energy metabolism in two oyster subspecies after being common gardened for one generation in identical conditions. Thermal responses were assessed by incorporating physiological, molecular, and genomic approaches. Southern oysters exhibited higher fluctuations in metabolic rate, activities of key energetic enzymes, and levels of thermally induced gene expression than northern oysters. For genes involved in energy metabolism, the former displayed higher basal levels of gene expression and a more pronounced downregulation of thermally induced expression, while the later exhibited lower basal levels and a less pronounced downregulation of gene expression. Contrary expression pattern was observed in oxidative stress gene. Besides, energy metabolic tradeoffs were detected in both subspecies. Furthermore, the genetic divergence of a nonsynonymous SNP (SOD‐132) and five synonymous SNPs in other genes was identified and validated in these two subspecies, which possibly affects downstream functions and explains the aforementioned phenotypic variations. Our study demonstrates that differentiations in energy metabolism underlie the plasticity of adaptive divergence in two oyster subspecies and suggest C. gigas angulata with moderate phenotypic plasticity has higher adaptive potential to cope with exacerbated global warming.
Chronic toxicity of aluminum, at a pH of 6, to freshwater organisms: Empirical data for the development of international regulatory standards/criteria
Authors: Cardwell Allison S. , Adams William J. , Gensemer Robert W. , Nordheim Eirik , Santore Robert C. , Ryan Adam C. , Stubblefield William A.
Published: July 2017

The chemistry, bioavailability, and toxicity of aluminum (Al) in the aquatic environment are complex and affected by a wide range of water quality characteristics (including pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon). Data gaps in Al ecotoxicology exist for pH ranges representative of natural surface waters (pH 6–8). To address these gaps, a series of chronic toxicity tests were performed at pH 6 with 8 freshwater species, including 2 fish (Pimephales promelas and Danio rerio), an oligochaete (Aeolosoma sp.), a rotifer (Brachionus calyciflorus), a snail (Lymnaea stagnalis), an amphipod (Hyalella azteca), a midge (Chironomus riparius), and an aquatic plant (Lemna minor). The 10% effect concentrations (EC10s) ranged from 98 μg total Al/L for D. rerio to 2175 μg total Al/L for L. minor. From these data and additional published data, species-sensitivity distributions (SSDs) were developed to derive concentrations protective of 95% of tested species (i.e., 50% lower confidence limit of a 5th percentile hazard concentration [HC5-50]). A generic HC5-50 (not adjusted for bioavailability) of 74.4 μg total Al/L was estimated using the SSD. An Al-specific biotic ligand model (BLM) was used to develop SSDs normalized for bioavailability based on site-specific water quality characteristics. Normalized HC5-50s ranged from 93.7 to 534 μg total Al/L for waters representing a range of European ecoregions, whereas a chronic HC5 calculated using US Environmental Protection Agency aquatic life criteria methods (i.e., a continuous criterion concentration [CCC]) was 125 μg total Al/L when normalized to Lake Superior water in the United States. The HC5-50 and CCC values for site-specific waters other than those in the present study can be obtained using the Al BLM. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:36–48. © 2017 SETAC
Evaluation of infiltration‐based stormwater management to restore hydrological processes in urban headwater streams
Authors: Fanelli Rosemary , Prestegaard Karen , Palmer Margaret
Published: July 2017

Urbanization threatens headwater stream ecosystems globally. Watershed restoration practices, such as infiltration‐based stormwater management, are implemented to mitigate the detrimental effects of urbanization on aquatic ecosystems. However, their effectiveness for restoring hydrologic processes and watershed storage remains poorly understood. Our study used a comparative hydrology approach to quantify the effects of urban watershed restoration on watershed hydrologic function in headwater streams within the Coastal Plain of Maryland, USA. We selected 11 headwater streams that spanned an urbanization–restoration gradient (4 forested, 4 urban‐degraded, and 3 urban‐degraded) to evaluate changes in watershed hydrologic function from both urbanization and watershed restoration. Discrete discharge and continuous, high‐frequency rainfall‐stage monitoring were conducted in each watershed. These datasets were used to develop 6 hydrologic metrics describing changes in watershed storage, flowpath connectivity, or the resultant stream flow regime. The hydrological effects of urbanization were clearly observed in all metrics, but only 1 of the 3 restored watersheds exhibited partially restored hydrologic function. At this site, a larger minimum runoff threshold was observed relative to the urban‐degraded watersheds, suggesting enhanced infiltration of stormwater runoff within the restoration structure. However, baseflow in the stream draining this watershed remained low compared to the forested reference streams, suggesting that enhanced infiltration of stormwater runoff did not recharge subsurface storage zones contributing to stream baseflow. The highly variable responses among the 3 restored watersheds were likely due to the spatial heterogeneity of urban development, including the level of impervious cover and extent of the storm sewer network. This study yielded important knowledge on how restoration strategies, such as infiltration‐based stormwater management, modulated—or failed to modulate—hydrological processes affected by urbanization, which will help improve the design of future urban watershed management strategies. More broadly, we highlighted a multimetric approach that can be used to monitor the restoration of headwater stream ecosystems in disturbed landscapes.
Catchment‐scale conceptual modelling of water and solute transport in the dual flow system of the karst critical zone
Authors: Zhang Zhicai , Chen Xi , Soulsby Chris
Published: July 2017

Hydrological and hydrochemical processes in the critical zone of karst environments are controlled by the fracture‐conduit network. Modelling hydrological and hydrochemical dynamics in such heterogeneous hydrogeological settings remains a research challenge. In this study, water and solute transport in the dual flow system of the karst critical zone were investigated in a 73.5‐km2 catchment in southwest China. We developed a dual reservoir conceptual run‐off model combined with an autoregressive and moving average model with algorithms to assess dissolution rates in the “fast flow” and “slow flow” systems. This model was applied to 3 catchments with typical karst critical zone architectures, to show how flow exchange between fracture and conduit networks changes in relation to catchment storage dynamics. The flux of bidirectional water and solute exchange between the fissure and conduit system increases from the headwaters to the outfall due to the large area of the developed conduits and low hydraulic gradient in the lower catchment. Rainfall amounts have a significant influence on partitioning the relative proportions of flow and solutes derived from different sources reaching the underground outlet. The effect of rainfall on catchment function is modulated by the structure of the karst critical zone (e.g., epikarst and sinkholes). Thin epikarst and well‐developed sinkholes in the headwaters divert more surface water (younger water) into the underground channel network, leading to a higher fraction of rainfall recharge into the fast flow system and total outflow. Also, the contribution of carbonate weathering to mass export is also higher in the headwaters due to the infiltration of younger water with low solute concentrations through sinkholes.
Gridded climate data products are an alternative to instrumental measurements as inputs to rainfall–runoff models
Authors: Ledesma José L.J. , Futter Martyn N.
Published: July 2017

Rainfall–runoff models are widely used to predict flows using observed (instrumental) time series of air temperature and precipitation as inputs. Poor model performance is often associated with difficulties in estimating catchment‐scale meteorological variables from point observations. Readily available gridded climate products are an underutilized source of temperature and precipitation time series for rainfall–runoff modelling, which may overcome some of the performance issues associated with poor‐quality instrumental data in small headwater monitoring catchments. Here we compare the performance of instrumental measured and E‐OBS gridded temperature and precipitation time series as inputs in the rainfall–runoff models “PERSiST” and “HBV” for flow prediction in six small Swedish catchments. For both models and most catchments, the gridded data produced statistically better simulations than did those obtained using instrumental measurements. Despite the high correspondence between instrumental and gridded temperature, both temperature and precipitation were responsible for the difference. We conclude that (a) gridded climate products such as the E‐OBS dataset could be more widely used as alternative input to rainfall–runoff models, even when instrumental measurements are available, and (b) the processing applied to gridded climate products appears to provide a more realistic approximation of small catchment‐scale temperature and precipitation patterns needed for flow simulations. Further research on this issue is needed and encouraged.
Cluster size convergence for the energetics of the oxygen evolving complex in PSII
Authors: Siegbahn Per E. M. , Li Xichen
Published: July 2017

Density functional theory calculations have been made to investigate the stability of the energetics for the oxygen evolving complex of photosystem II. Results published elsewhere have given excellent agreement with experiments for both energetics and structures, where many of the experimental results were obtained several years after the calculations were done. The computational results were obtained after a careful extension from small models to a size of about 200 atoms, where stability of the results was demonstrated. However, recently results were published by Isobe et al., suggesting that very different results could be obtained if the model was extended from 200 to 340 atoms. The present study aims at understanding where this difference comes from. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Computational Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TGF‐β and Th17 cells related injuries in patients with sulfur mustard exposure
Authors: Panahi Yunes , Ghanei Mostafa , Hassani Saeed , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: July 2017

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a vesicating agent that has been employed as a chemical warfare agent. High‐dose exposure to sulfur mustard may lead to the damage of rapidly proliferating cells of bone marrow and, therefore, suppression of the immune system. This may be continued as dysfunction of the immune system, and ultimately result in secondary immune disorders. Studies have suggested a role for T cells in SM‐induced lung injury. Moreover, observations from animal studies indicate a delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) response after skin exposure to SM, providing an understanding that SM can stimulate specific T cell‐mediated immune responses. On the other hand, T helper (Th) 17 cells, which are a subset of CD4+ T cells, have recently been reported to be involved in a number of inflammatory, autoimmune, and chronic fibrotic lung diseases. Furthermore, a strong association has been established between the overproduction of profibrotic cytokines like transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and Th17 cell number. In this review, we aimed to go through the new findings about the involvement and interactions of TGF‐β and Th17 in SM‐related injuries.
Preservation of truncal genomic alterations in clear cell and papillary renal cell carcinomas with sarcomatoid features: An intra‐ and intertumoral, multifocal fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis reveals limited genetic heterogeneity
Authors: Sanfrancesco Joseph M. , Eble John N. , Grignon David J. , Wang Mingsheng , Zhang Shaobo , Sundaram Chandru P. , Idrees Muhammad T. , Pili Roberto , Kouba Erik , Cheng Liang
Published: July 2017

Understanding tumor genomic heterogeneity may offer vital information in an age of targeted therapy for renal cell carcinoma. We sought to investigate hallmark truncal chromosomal alterations between conventional, sarcomatoid, and matched metastatic tumor foci in clear cell and papillary renal cell carcinomas. A retrospective review identified 58 cases including clear cell (CCRCC) and papillary renal cell carcinomas (PRCC). All cases contained sarcomatoid transformation. Additionally, 10 of 58 patients had matched metastatic disease available for analysis. Three separate foci of conventional and sarcomatoid morphologies were analyzed in each tumor using dual color interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization. In the CCRCC cohort, hallmark chromosome 3p deletion was identified in 71% of cases (37/52). Complete concordance of chromosomal status between intratumoral foci in sarcomatoid and conventional foci was 89% and 86%, respectively. Overall chromosome 3p status between matched conventional and sarcomatoid morphologies was identified in 98% of cases (51/52). Hallmark 3p deletion was present in 91% of CCRCC metastatic samples (10/11) and was concordant with the matched primary CCRCC tumor in 91% (10/11). In the PRCC cohort, trisomy 7 and 17 was identified in all six cases (6/6). Complete concordance between intratumoral foci of trisomy 7 and 17 was 83% (5/6). Trisomy 7 and 17 were identified in all metastatic PRCC samples with 100% concordance with the matched primary tumor. These data show the relative preservation of truncal chromosomal abnormalities between conventional and sarcomatoid morphologic as well as matched metastatic settings.
Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid induces thioredoxin1‐mediated apoptosis in lung cancer cells via up‐regulation of miR‐129‐5p
Authors: You Bo Ra , Park Woo Hyun
Published: July 2017

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, especially suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) induce apoptosis in various cancer cells. Here, we investigated the effect of SAHA on apoptosis in lung cancer cells and addressed the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), and thioredoxin1 (Trx1) levels in this process. We also identified the miRNAs that down‐regulate Trx1 expression at RNA level and thereby influence apoptotic cell death of SAHA increased intracellular ROS levels and promoted apoptotic cell death in cancerous cells but not in non‐cancerous normal lung cells. Likewise, SAHA induced GSH depletion specifically in cancerous cells. While N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC) reduced ROS level and reversed the effect of SAHA on cell death, L‐buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) further enhanced GSH depletion, and promoted cell death. SAHA decreased the mRNA and protein levels of Trx1 in lung cancer cells. Knockdown/suppression of Trx1 intensified apoptosis in SAHA‐treated lung cancer cells whereas overexpression of Trx1 prevented the cell death in these cells. SAHA up‐regulated the level of miR‐129‐5p, which binds to 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of Trx1 and down‐regulates Trx1 expression. Down‐regulation of Trx1 led to activation of apoptosis‐signal regulating kinase (ASK), which induced apoptotic cell death by triggering ASK‐JNK or ASK‐p38 kinase pathway. In conclusion, changes in ROS and GSH levels in SAHA‐treated lung cancer cells partially co‐related with cell death. SAHA induced apoptosis via the down‐regulation of Trx1, which was regulated by miR‐129‐5p.
Efficacy of oral methylcobalamin in treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia in children
Authors: Verma Deepti , Chandra Jagdish , Kumar Praveen , Shukla Shailaja , Sengupta Shantanu
Published: July 2017

To demonstrate the efficacy of oral methylcobalamin in treating vitamin B12 (vitB12) deficiency anemia, our prospective observational study enrolled 28 children with both macrocytic anemia and low holotranscobalamin (HoloTC) levels. Their hematological and biochemical parameters pre‐ and posttreatment at 1 month were compared. Hemoglobin showed mean increase of 2.89 g/dl (P < 0.001), rising above 10 g/dl in 24 patients (85.7%). Reticulocytes peaked at 1 week. Mean fall in mean corpuscular volume of 24.83 fl (P < 0.001) and mean improvement in platelets of 122,100/μl (P = 0.001) were noted, and mean rise in HoloTC and vitB12 were 111.36 pmol/l (P < 0.001) and 918.34 pg/ml (P < 0.001), respectively. Thus, initial responses to oral methylcobalamin in children with vitB12 deficiency anemia were adequate.
Respiratory Rate Estimation by Using ECG, Impedance, and Motion Sensing in Smart Clothing
Authors: Shen Chien-Lung , Huang Tzu-Hao , Hsu Po-Chun , Ko Ya-Chi , Chen Fen-Ling , Wang Wei-Chun , Kao Tsair , Chan Chia-Tai
Published: July 2017

The needs for light-weight and soft smart clothing in homecare have been rising since the past decade. Many smart textile sensors have been developed and applied to automatic physiological and user-centered environmental status recognition. In the present study, we propose wearable multi-sensor smart clothing for homecare monitoring based on an economic fabric electrode with high elasticity and low resistance. The wearable smart clothing integrated with heterogeneous sensors is capable to measure multiple human biosignals (ECG and respiration), acceleration, and gyro information. Five independent respiratory signals (electric impedance plethysmography, respiratory induced frequency variation, respiratory induced amplitude variation, respiratory induced intensity variation, and respiratory induced movement variation) are obtained. The smart clothing can provide accurate respiratory rate estimation by using three different techniques (Naïve Bayes inference, static Kalman filter, and dynamic Kalman filter). During the static sitting experiments, respiratory induced frequency variation has the best performance; whereas during the running experiments, respiratory induced amplitude variation has the best performance. The Naïve Bayes inference and dynamic Kalman filter have shown good results. The novel smart clothing is soft, elastic, and washable and it is suitable for long-term monitoring in homecare medical service and healthcare industry.