bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure Losses in Hydraulic Manifolds
Authors: Zardin Barbara , Cillo Giovanni , Rinaldini Carlo , Mattarelli Enrico , Borghi Massimo
Published: March 2017

Hydraulic manifolds are used to realize compact circuit layout, but may introduce a high pressure drop in the system. Their design is in fact oriented more toward achieving minimum size and weight than to reducing pressure losses. This work studies the pressure losses in hydraulic manifolds using different methods: Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis; semi-empirical formulation derived from the scientific literature, when available; and experimental characterization. The purpose is to obtain the pressure losses when the channels’ connections within the manifold are not ascribable to the few classic cases studied in the literature, in particular for 90° bends (elbows) with expansion/contraction and offset intersection of channels. Moreover, since CFD analysis is used to predict pressure losses, general considerations of the manifold design may be outlined and this will help the design process in the optimization of flow passages. The main results obtained show how CFD analysis overestimates the experimental results; nevertheless, the numerical analysis represents the correct trends of the pressure losses.
A Redundancy Mechanism Design for Hall-Based Electronic Current Transformers
Authors: Chen Kun-Long , Wan Ren-Shuo , Guo Yi , Chen Nanming , Lee Wei-Jen
Published: March 2017

Traditional current transformers (CTs) suffer from DC and AC saturation and remanent magnetization in many industrial applications. Moreover, the drawbacks of traditional CTs, such as closed iron cores, bulky volume, and heavy weight, further limit the development of an intelligent power protection system. In order to compensate for these drawbacks, we proposed a novel current measurement method by using Hall sensors, which is called the Hall-effect current transformer (HCT). The existing commercial Hall sensors are electronic components, so the reliability of the HCT is normally worse than that of the traditional CT. Therefore, our study proposes a redundancy mechanism for the HCT to strengthen its reliability. With multiple sensor modules, the method has the ability to improve the accuracy of the HCT as well. Additionally, the proposed redundancy mechanism monitoring system provides a condition-based maintenance for the HCT. We verify our method with both simulations and an experimental test. The results demonstrate that the proposed HCT with a redundancy mechanism can almost achieve Class 0.2 for measuring CTs according to IEC Standard 60044-8.
An Improved LCL Filter Design in Order to Ensure Stability without Damping and Despite Large Grid Impedance Variations
Authors: Said-Romdhane Marwa , Naouar Mohamed , Belkhodja Ilhem , Monmasson Eric
Published: March 2017

With the smart grid revolution, there is a growing interest in the use of power converters associated to LCL filters to interface between the main utility grid and loads or renewable energy sources. LCL filters are commonly used mainly due to their low cost and high filtering performances. To achieve these performances, it is necessary to meticulously pick out the LCL filter parameters, taking into account grid code requirements and grid configuration and/or conditions. Several methodologies for LCL filter design have been presented and discussed in the literature. The main goal of this paper is to propose a simple, robust and systematic design methodology for LCL filter parameter tuning. The considered design methodology is aimed to overcome the shortcomings of classical design methodologies, namely, stable operation under different grid configurations and conditions. Compared to previous works, the proposed design methodology allows the achievement of robust LCL filter design with regard to large grid impedance variations without the use of any damping method. Also, it takes into account accuracy of capacitor standard values and proposes a simple design method for the converter side inductor that avoids saturation problems. An example of LCL filter design is presented and discussed. The obtained filter parameters were firstly tested using a Matlab-Simulink software tool. After that, they were tested through the development of an experimental set-up. The obtained simulation and experimental results show the reliability and efficiency of the proposed design methodology.
Development of a Vibration-Based Electromagnetic Energy Harvester by a Conductive Direct-Write Process
Authors: Feng Yao-Yun , Chen Shih-Jui , Tu You-Lin
Published: March 2017

A conductive direct-write process of multilayered coils for micro electromagnetic generators is proposed. This novel approach of using silver ink to form the conductive structures largely reduces the fabrication complexity, and it provides a faster alternative to the conventional semiconductor methods. Multi-layered coils with insulation were accurately layered on a micromachined cantilevered diaphragm by a dispenser. Coils several layers thick could be used to increase the power output and double coils were separated by a layer of insulation. Six prototypes, all capable of efficient conversion of vibrational energy into electrical energy, were fabricated. The experimental results, which include measurements of the electromotive force and power output, are presented. Prototypes with two coils and thicker conducting layers had less resistance and the power output was much more than that of a single-coil unit. This generator can produce 82 nW of power at a resonance frequency of 275 Hz under 5 g excitation.
Currently Commercially Available Chemical Sensors Employed for Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds in Outdoor and Indoor Air
Authors: Szulczyński Bartosz , Gębicki Jacek
Published: March 2017

The paper presents principle of operation and design of the most popular chemical sensors for measurement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in outdoor and indoor air. It describes the sensors for evaluation of explosion risk including pellistors and IR-absorption sensors as well as the sensors for detection of toxic compounds such as electrochemical (amperometric), photoionization and semiconductor with solid electrolyte ones. Commercially available sensors for detection of VOCs and their metrological parameters—measurement range, limit of detection, measurement resolution, sensitivity and response time—were presented. Moreover, development trends and prospects of improvement of the metrological parameters of these sensors were highlighted.
Listeria monocytogenes in Fresh Produce: Outbreaks, Prevalence and Contamination Levels
Authors: Zhu Qi , Gooneratne Ravi , Hussain Malik
Published: March 2017

Listeria monocytogenes, a member of the genus Listeria, is widely distributed in agricultural environments, such as soil, manure and water. This organism is a recognized foodborne pathogenic bacterium that causes many diseases, from mild gastroenteritis to severe blood and/or central nervous system infections, as well as abortion in pregnant women. Generally, processed ready-to-eat and cold-stored meat and dairy products are considered high-risk foods for L. monocytogenes infections that cause human illness (listeriosis). However, recently, several listeriosis outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce contamination around the world. Additionally, many studies have detected L. monocytogenes in fresh produce samples and even in some minimally processed vegetables. Thus L. monocytogenes may contaminate fresh produce if present in the growing environment (soil and water). Prevention of biofilm formation is an important control measure to reduce the prevalence and survival of L. monocytogenes in growing environments and on fresh produce. This article specifically focuses on fresh produce–associated listeriosis outbreaks, prevalence in growing environments, contamination levels of fresh produce, and associated fresh produce safety challenges.
Neurotoxic Doses of Chronic Methamphetamine Trigger Retrotransposition of the Identifier Element in Rat Dorsal Dentate Gyrus
Authors: Moszczynska Anna , Burghardt Kyle , Yu Dongyue
Published: March 2017

Short interspersed elements (SINEs) are typically silenced by DNA hypermethylation in somatic cells, but can retrotranspose in proliferating cells during adult neurogenesis. Hypomethylation caused by disease pathology or genotoxic stress leads to genomic instability of SINEs. The goal of the present investigation was to determine whether neurotoxic doses of binge or chronic methamphetamine (METH) trigger retrotransposition of the identifier (ID) element, a member of the rat SINE family, in the dentate gyrus genomic DNA. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were treated with saline or high doses of binge or chronic METH and sacrificed at three different time points thereafter. DNA methylation analysis, immunohistochemistry and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) were performed on the dorsal dentate gyrus samples. Binge METH triggered hypomethylation, while chronic METH triggered hypermethylation of the CpG‐2 site. Both METH regimens were associated with increased intensities in poly(A)‐binding protein 1 (PABP1, a SINE regulatory protein)‐like immunohistochemical staining in the dentate gyrus. The amplification of several ID element sequences was significantly higher in the chronic METH group than in the control group a week after METH, and they mapped to genes coding for proteins regulating cell growth and proliferation, transcription, protein function as well as for a variety of transporters. The results suggest that chronic METH induces ID element retrotransposition in the dorsal dentate gyrus and may affect hippocampal neurogenesis.
Muscle Strength and Functional Ability in Recreational Female Golfers and Less Active Non-Golfers over the Age of 80 Years
Authors: Stockdale Alison , Webb Nicholas , Wootton Jessica , Drennan Jonathan , Brown Simon , Stokes Maria
Published: March 2017

Muscle strength and functional ability decline with age. Physical activity can slow the decline but whether recreational golf is associated with slower decline is unknown. This cross-sectional, observational study aimed to examine the feasibility of testing muscle strength and functional ability in older female golfers and non-golfers in community settings. Thirty-one females over aged 80, living independently (golfers n = 21, mean age 83, standard deviation (±) 2.1 years); non-golfers, n = 10 (80.8 ± 1.03 years) were studied. Maximal isometric contractions of handgrip and quadriceps were tested on the dominant side. Functional ability was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and health-related quality of life using the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Grip strength, normalised to body mass, was greater in golfers (0.33 ± 0.06 kgF/kg) than non-golfers (0.29 ± 0.06), however, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.051). Quadriceps strength did not differ (golfers 2.78 ± 0.74 N/kg; non-golfers 2.69 ± 0.83; p = 0.774). TUG times were significantly faster (p = 0.027) in golfers (10.4 ± 1.9 s) than non-golfers (12.6 ± 3.21 s; within sarcopenic category). Quality of life was significantly higher in golfers for the physical categories (Physical Function p < 0.001; Physical p = 0.033; Bodily pain p = 0.028; Vitality p = 0.047) but psychosocial categories did not differ. These findings indicated that the assessment techniques were feasible in both groups and sensitive enough to detect some differences between groups. The indication that golf was associated with better physical function than non-golfers in females over 80 needs to be examined by prospective randomised controlled trials to determine whether golf can help to achieve the recommended guidelines for strengthening exercise to protect against sarcopenia.
The Role of Age-Friendly Environments on Quality of Life among Thai Older Adults
Authors: Tiraphat Sariyamon , Peltzer Karl , Thamma-Aphiphol Kriengsak , Suthisukon Kawinarat
Published: March 2017

Studies on the significance of age-friendly environments towards quality of life among older adults have been limited. This study aimed to examine the association between age-friendly environments and quality of life among Thai older adults. Cross-sectional interview survey data were collected from 4183 older adults (≥60 years) using multistage stratified systematic sampling from all four regions in Thailand. The outcome variable was the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) scale, while independent variables included sociodemographic factors, having a health problem, and neighbourhood age-friendly environment variables. In multivariable logistic regression, significant age-friendly environments predictors of quality of life included walkable neighbourhood, neighbourhood aesthetics, neighbourhood service accessibility, neighbourhood criminal safety, neighbourhood social trust, neighbourhood social support, and neighbourhood social cohesion. The present study confirms the important role of age-friendly neighbourhoods in terms of physical and social environments towards the quality of life of older adults.
Perceived Stigma of Sudden Bereavement as a Risk Factor for Suicidal Thoughts and Suicide Attempt: Analysis of British Cross-Sectional Survey Data on 3387 Young Bereaved Adults
Authors: Pitman Alexandra , Rantell Khadija , Marston Louise , King Michael , Osborn David
Published: March 2017

The sudden death of a friend or relative, particularly by suicide, is a risk factor for suicide. People who experience sudden bereavement report feeling highly stigmatised by the loss, potentially influencing access to support. We assessed whether perceived stigma following sudden bereavement is associated with suicidal thoughts and suicide attempt. We analysed cross-sectional survey data on 3387 young adults bereaved by the sudden death of a close contact. We tested the association of high versus low perceived stigma (on the stigma sub-scale of the Grief Experience Questionnaire) with post-bereavement suicidal ideation and suicide attempt, using random effects logistic regression, adjusting for socio-demographic factors, pre-bereavement psychopathology, and mode of sudden bereavement (natural causes/unnatural causes/suicide). Subjects with high perceived stigma scores were significantly more likely to report post-bereavement suicidal thoughts (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.93–3.89) and suicide attempt (AOR = 2.73; 95% CI = 2.33–3.18) than those with low stigma scores. People who feel highly stigmatised by a sudden bereavement are at increased risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempt, even taking into account prior suicidal behaviour. General practitioners, bereavement counsellors, and others who support people bereaved suddenly, should consider inquiring about perceived stigma, mental wellbeing, and suicidal thoughts, and directing them to appropriate sources of support.
Parental Supply of Alcohol in Childhood and Risky Drinking in Adolescence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sharmin Sonia , Kypri Kypros , Khanam Masuma , Wadolowski Monika , Bruno Raimondo , Mattick Richard
Published: March 2017

Whether parental supply of alcohol affects the likelihood of later adolescent risky drinking remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize findings from longitudinal studies investigating this association. We searched eight electronic databases up to 10 September 2016 for relevant terms and included only original English language peer-reviewed journal articles with a prospective design. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Seven articles met inclusion criteria, six of which used analytic methods allowing for meta-analysis. In all seven studies, the follow-up period was ≥12 months and attrition ranged from 3% to 15%. Parental supply of alcohol was associated with subsequent risky drinking (odds ratio = 2.00, 95% confidence interval = 1.72, 2.32); however, there was substantial risk of confounding bias and publication bias. In all studies, measurement of exposure was problematic given the lack of distinction between parental supply of sips of alcohol versus whole drinks. In conclusion, parental supply of alcohol in childhood is associated with an increased likelihood of risky drinking later in adolescence. However, methodological limitations preclude a causal inference. More robust longitudinal studies are needed, with particular attention to distinguishing sips from whole drinks, measurement of likely confounders, and multivariable adjustment.
Combined Effect of Silica Nanoparticles and Benzo[a]pyrene on Cell Cycle Arrest Induction and Apoptosis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
Authors: Asweto Collins , Wu Jing , Hu Hejing , Feng Lin , Yang Xiaozhe , Duan Junchao , Sun Zhiwei
Published: March 2017

Particulate matter (PM) such as ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) and the organic compound pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) are widespread in the environment. UFP and PAH are present in the air, and their presence may enhance their individual adverse effects on human health. However, the mechanism and effect of their combined interactions on human cells are not well understood. We investigated the combined toxicity of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) (UFP) and Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) (PAH) on human endothelial cells. Human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to SiNPs or B[a]P, or a combination of SiNPs and B[a]P. The toxicity was investigated by assessing cellular oxidative stress, DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Our results show that SiNPs were able to induce reactive oxygen species generation (ROS). B[a]P, when acting alone, had no toxicity effect. However, a co-exposure of SiNPs and B[a]P synergistically induced DNA damage, oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest at the G2/M check point, and apoptosis. The co-exposure induced G2/M arrest through the upregulation of Chk1 and downregulation of Cdc25C, cyclin B1. The co-exposure also upregulated bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9, the proapoptic proteins, while down-regulating bcl-2, which is an antiapoptotic protein. These results show that interactions between SiNPs and B[a]P synergistically potentiated toxicological effects on HUVECs. This information should help further our understanding of the combined toxicity of PAH and UFP.
A Spatial Lattice Model Applied for Meteorological Visualization and Analysis
Authors: Lu Mingyue , Chen Min , Wang Xuan , Min Jinzhong , Liu Aili
Published: March 2017

Meteorological information has obvious spatial-temporal characteristics. Although it is meaningful to employ a geographic information system (GIS) to visualize and analyze the meteorological information for better identification and forecasting of meteorological weather so as to reduce the meteorological disaster loss, modeling meteorological information based on a GIS is still difficult because meteorological elements generally have no stable shape or clear boundary. To date, there are still few GIS models that can satisfy the requirements of both meteorological visualization and analysis. In this article, a spatial lattice model based on sampling particles is proposed to support both the representation and analysis of meteorological information. In this model, a spatial sampling particle is regarded as the basic element that contains the meteorological information, and the location where the particle is placed with the time mark. The location information is generally represented using a point. As these points can be extended to a surface in two dimensions and a voxel in three dimensions, if these surfaces and voxels can occupy a certain space, then this space can be represented using these spatial sampling particles with their point locations and meteorological information. In this case, the full meteorological space can then be represented by arranging numerous particles with their point locations in a certain structure and resolution, i.e., the spatial lattice model, and extended at a higher resolution when necessary. For practical use, the meteorological space is logically classified into three types of spaces, namely the projection surface space, curved surface space, and stereoscopic space, and application-oriented spatial lattice models with different organization forms of spatial sampling particles are designed to support the representation, inquiry, and analysis of meteorological information within the three types of surfaces. Cases studies are conducted by (1) performing a visualization of radar data that is used to describe the reflectivity factor of a raindrop and the pressure field information acquired from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), and (2) taking cutting analysis as another example where advanced meteorological analysis is performed. The results show that the proposed spatial lattice model can contribute to the feasible and effective analysis of meteorological information.
Molecular and Structural Characterization of the Tegumental 20.6-kDa Protein in Clonorchis sinensis as a Potential Druggable Target
Authors: Kim Yu-Jung , Yoo Won , Lee Myoung-Ro , Kang Jung-Mi , Na Byoung-Kuk , Cho Shin-Hyeong , Park Mi-Yeoun , Ju Jung-Won
Published: March 2017

The tegument, representing the membrane-bound outer surface of platyhelminth parasites, plays an important role for the regulation of the host immune response and parasite survival. A comprehensive understanding of tegumental proteins can provide drug candidates for use against helminth-associated diseases, such as clonorchiasis caused by the liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis. However, little is known regarding the physicochemical properties of C. sinensis teguments. In this study, a novel 20.6-kDa tegumental protein of the C. sinensis adult worm (CsTegu20.6) was identified and characterized by molecular and in silico methods. The complete coding sequence of 525 bp was derived from cDNA clones and encodes a protein of 175 amino acids. Homology search using BLASTX showed CsTegu20.6 identity ranging from 29% to 39% with previously-known tegumental proteins in C. sinensis. Domain analysis indicated the presence of a calcium-binding EF-hand domain containing a basic helix-loop-helix structure and a dynein light chain domain exhibiting a ferredoxin fold. We used a modified method to obtain the accurate tertiary structure of the CsTegu20.6 protein because of the unavailability of appropriate templates. The CsTegu20.6 protein sequence was split into two domains based on the disordered region, and then, the structure of each domain was modeled using I-TASSER. A final full-length structure was obtained by combining two structures and refining the whole structure. A refined CsTegu20.6 structure was used to identify a potential CsTegu20.6 inhibitor based on protein structure-compound interaction analysis. The recombinant proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid affinity chromatography. In C. sinensis, CsTegu20.6 mRNAs were abundant in adult and metacercariae, but not in the egg. Immunohistochemistry revealed that CsTegu20.6 localized to the surface of the tegument in the adult fluke. Collectively, our results contribute to a better understanding of the structural and functional characteristics of CsTegu20.6 and homologs of flukes. One compound is proposed as a putative inhibitor of CsTegu20.6 to facilitate further studies for anthelmintics.
Microglial Function across the Spectrum of Age and Gender
Authors: Nissen Jillian
Published: March 2017

Microglia constitute the resident immunocompetent cells of the central nervous system. Although much work has focused on their ability to mount an inflammatory response in reaction to pathology, recent studies have delved into their role in maintaining homeostasis in the healthy brain. It is important to note that the function of these cells is more complex than originally conceived, as there is increasing evidence that microglial responses can vary greatly among individuals. Here, this review will describe the changing behavior of microglia from development and birth through to the aged brain. Further, it is not only age that impacts the state of the neuroimmune milieu, as microglia have been shown to play a central role in the sexual differentiation of the brain. Finally, this review will discuss the implications this has for the differences in the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders between males and females, and between the young and old.
AKT2 Blocks Nucleus Translocation of Apoptosis-Inducing Factor (AIF) and Endonuclease G (EndoG) While Promoting Caspase Activation during Cardiac Ischemia
Authors: Yang Shuai , Zhao Xinmei , Xu Hui , Chen Fan , Xu Yitao , Li Zhe , Sanchis Daniel , Jin Liang , Zhang Yubin , Ye Junmei
Published: March 2017

The AKT (protein kinase B, PKB) family has been shown to participate in diverse cellular processes, including apoptosis. Previous studies demonstrated that protein kinase B2 (AKT2−/−) mice heart was sensitized to apoptosis in response to ischemic injury. However, little is known about the mechanism and apoptotic signaling pathway. Here, we show that AKT2 inhibition does not affect the development of cardiomyocytes but increases cell death during cardiomyocyte ischemia. Caspase-dependent apoptosis of both the extrinsic and intrinsic pathway was inactivated in cardiomyocytes with AKT2 inhibition during ischemia, while significant mitochondrial disruption was observed as well as intracytosolic translocation of cytochrome C (Cyto C) together with apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and endonuclease G (EndoG), both of which are proven to conduct DNA degradation in a range of cell death stimuli. Therefore, mitochondria-dependent cell death was investigated and the results suggested that AIF and EndoG nucleus translocation causes cardiomyocyte DNA degradation during ischemia when AKT2 is blocked. These data are the first to show a previous unrecognized function and mechanism of AKT2 in regulating cardiomyocyte survival during ischemia by inducing a unique mitochondrial-dependent DNA degradation pathway when it is inhibited.
Blood Biomarkers Predict the Cognitive Effects of Aripiprazole in Patients with Acute Schizophrenia
Authors: Hori Hikaru , Yoshimura Reiji , Katsuki Asuka , Atake Kiyokazu , Igata Ryohei , Konishi Yuki , Beppu Hiroki , Tominaga Hirotaka
Published: March 2017

Aripiprazole has been reported to exert variable effects on cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated biological markers, clinical data, and psychiatric symptoms in order to identify factors that influence cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia undergoing aripiprazole treatment. We evaluated cognitive function in 51 patients with schizophrenia using Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), as well as background information, psychiatric symptoms, plasma catecholamine metabolites—homovanillic acid (HVA), 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG)—, and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Multivariate analyses were performed in order to identify factors independently associated with cognitive function. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, number of hospitalizations, and MHPG levels were associated with verbal memory and learning. Total hospitalization period and MHPG levels were associated with working memory. Age at first hospitalization and education were associated with motor speed. The number of hospital admissions, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale negative subscale scores (PANSS-N), MHPG levels, BDNF levels, and Drug-Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale (DIEPSS) scores were associated with verbal fluency. Homovanillic acid and MHPG levels, duration of illness, and PANSS-N scores were associated with attention and processing speed. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and MHPG levels were associated with executive function. These results suggest that treatment of psychiatric symptoms and cognitive dysfunction may be improved in patients treated with aripiprazole by controlling for these contributing factors.
ProNGF, but Not NGF, Switches from Neurotrophic to Apoptotic Activity in Response to Reductions in TrkA Receptor Levels
Authors: Ioannou Maria , Fahnestock Margaret
Published: March 2017

Nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes the survival and differentiation of neurons. NGF is initially synthesized as a precursor, proNGF, which is the predominant form in the central nervous system. NGF and proNGF bind to TrkA/p75NTR to mediate cell survival and to sortilin/p75NTR to promote apoptosis. The ratio of TrkA to p75NTR affects whether proNGF and mature NGF signal cell survival or apoptosis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the loss of TrkA influences p75NTR or sortilin expression levels, and to establish whether proNGF and mature NGF have a similar ability to switch between cell survival and cell death. We systematically altered TrkA receptor levels by priming cells with NGF, using small interfering RNA, and using the mutagenized PC12nnr5 cell line. We found that both NGF and proNGF can support cell survival in cells expressing TrkA, even in the presence of p75NTR and sortilin. However, when TrkA is reduced, proNGF signals cell death, while NGF exhibits no activity. In the absence of TrkA, proNGF-induced cell death occurs, even when p75NTR and sortilin levels are reduced. These results show that proNGF can switch between neurotrophic and apoptotic activity in response to changes in TrkA receptor levels, whereas mature NGF cannot. These results also support the model that proNGF is neurotrophic under normal circumstances, but that a loss in TrkA in the presence of p75NTR and sortilin, as occurs in neurodegenerative disease or injury, shifts proNGF, but not NGF, signalling from cell survival to cell death.
Computer-Aided Identiﬁcation and Validation of Intervenability Requirements
Authors: Meis Rene , Heisel Maritta
Published: March 2017

Privacy as a software quality is becoming more important these days and should not be underestimated during the development of software that processes personal data. The privacy goal of intervenability, in contrast to unlinkability (including anonymity and pseudonymity), has so far received little attention in research. Intervenability aims for the empowerment of end-users by keeping their personal data and how it is processed by the software system under their control. Several surveys have pointed out that the lack of intervenability options is a central privacy concern of end-users. In this paper, we systematically assess the privacy goal of intervenability and set up a software requirements taxonomy that relates the identiﬁed intervenability requirements with a taxonomy of transparency requirements. Furthermore, we provide a tool-supported method to identify intervenability requirements from the functional requirements of a software system. This tool-supported method provides the means to elicit and validate intervenability requirements in a computer-aided way. Our combined taxonomy of intervenability and transparency requirements gives a detailed view on the privacy goal of intervenability and its relation to transparency. We validated the completeness of our taxonomy by comparing it to the relevant literature that we derived based on a systematic literature review. The proposed method for the identiﬁcation of intervenability requirements shall support requirements engineers to elicit and document intervenability requirements in compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation.
Real-Time Approach to Flow Cell Imaging of Candida albicans Biofilm Development
Authors: McCall Andrew , Edgerton Mira
Published: March 2017

The ability of Candida albicans to form biofilms is a virulence factor that allows tissue attachment and subsequent infection of host tissues. Fungal biofilms have been particularly well studied, however the vast majority of these studies have been conducted under static conditions. Oral biofilms form in the presence of salivary flow, therefore we developed a novel flow system used for real-time imaging of fungal biofilm development. C. albicans wild-type (WT) cells readily attached to the substrate surface during the 2 h attachment phase, then formed heterogeneous biofilms after 18 h flow. Quantitative values for biomass, rates of attachment and detachment, and cell–cell adhesion events were obtained for C. albicans WT cells and for a hyperfilamentous mutant Δhog1. Attachment rates of C. albicans WT cells were nearly 2-fold higher than C. albicans Δhog1 cells, although Δhog1 cells formed 4-fold higher biomass. The reduced normalized detachment rate was the primary factor responsible for the increased biomass of Δhog1 biofilm, showing that cell detachment rates are an important predictor for ultimate biofilm mass under flow. Unlike static biofilms, C. albicans cells under constant laminar flow undergo continuous detachment and seeding that may be more representative of the development of in vivo biofilms.
Strain Effect on Electronic Structure and Work Function in α-Fe2O3 Films
Authors: Chen Li , Shi Changmin , Li Xiaolong , Mi Zhishan , Wang Dongchao , Liu Hongmei , Qiao Lijie
Published: March 2017

We investigate the electronic structure and work function modulation of α-Fe2O3 films by strain based on the density functional method. We find that the band gap of clean α-Fe2O3 films is a function of the strain and is influenced significantly by the element termination on the surface. The px and py orbitals keep close to Fermi level and account for a pronounced narrowing band gap under compressive strain, while unoccupied dz2 orbitals from conduction band minimum draw nearer to Fermi level and are responsible for the pronounced narrowing band gap under tensile strain. The spin polarized surface state, arising from localized dangling-bond states, is insensitive to strain, while the bulk band, especially for pz orbital, arising from extended Bloch states, is very sensitive to strain, which plays an important role for work function decreasing (increasing) under compressive (tensile) strain in Fe termination films. In particular, the work function in O terminated films is insensitive to strain because pz orbitals are less sensitive to strain than that of Fe termination films. Our findings confirm that the strain is an effective means to manipulate electronic structures and corrosion potential.
Assessment of the Residual Life of Steam Pipeline Material beyond the Computational Working Time
Authors: Sroka Marek , Zieliński Adam , Dziuba-Kałuża Maria , Kremzer Marek , Macek Magdalena , Jasiński Artur
Published: March 2017

This paper presents the evaluation of durability for the material of repair welded joints made from (13HMF) 14MoV6-3 steel after long-term service, and from material in the as-received condition and after long-term service. Microstructure examinations using a scanning electron microscope, hardness measurements and creep tests of the basic material and welded joints of these steels were carried out. These tests enabled the time of further safe service of the examined repair welded joints to be determined in relation to the residual life of the materials. The evaluation of residual life and disposable life, and thus the estimation and determination of the time of safe service, is of great importance for the operation of components beyond the design service life. The obtained test results are part of the materials’ characteristics developed by the Institute for Ferrous Metallurgy for steels and welded joints made from these steels to work under creep conditions.
Transfer Function of Macro-Micro Manipulation on a PDMS Microfluidic Chip
Authors: Mizoue Koji , Teramura Kaoru , Tsai Chia-Hung , Kaneko Makoto
Published: March 2017

To achieve fast and accurate cell manipulation in a microfluidic channel, it is essential to know the true nature of its input-output relationship. This paper aims to reveal the transfer function of such a micro manipulation controlled by a macro actuator. Both a theoretical model and experimental results for the manipulation are presented. A second-order transfer function is derived based on the proposed model, where the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) deformation plays an important role in the manipulation. Experiments are conducted with input frequencies up to 300 Hz. An interesting observation from the experimental results is that the frequency responses of the transfer function behave just like a first-order integration operator in the system. The role of PDMS deformation for the transfer function is discussed based on the experimentally-determined parameters and the proposed model.
Use of a Pan–Genomic DNA Microarray in Determination of the Phylogenetic Relatedness among Cronobacter spp. and Its Use as a Data Mining Tool to Understand Cronobacter Biology
Authors: Tall Ben , Gangiredla Jayanthi , Grim Christopher , Patel Isha , Jackson Scott , Mammel Mark , Kothary Mahendra , Sathyamoorthy Venugopal , Carter Laurenda , Fanning Séamus , Iversen Carol , Pagotto Franco , Stephan Roger , Lehner Angelika , Farber Jeffery , Yan Qiong , Gopinath Gopal
Published: March 2017

Cronobacter (previously known as Enterobacter sakazakii) is a genus of Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, oxidase-negative, catalase-positive, rod-shaped bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae. These organisms cause a variety of illnesses such as meningitis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and septicemia in neonates and infants, and urinary tract, wound, abscesses or surgical site infections, septicemia, and pneumonia in adults. The total gene content of 379 strains of Cronobacter spp. and taxonomically-related isolates was determined using a recently reported DNA microarray. The Cronobacter microarray as a genotyping tool gives the global food safety community a rapid method to identify and capture the total genomic content of outbreak isolates for food safety, environmental, and clinical surveillance purposes. It was able to differentiate the seven Cronobacter species from one another and from non-Cronobacter species. The microarray was also able to cluster strains within each species into well-defined subgroups. These results also support previous studies on the phylogenic separation of species members of the genus and clearly highlight the evolutionary sequence divergence among each species of the genus compared to phylogenetically-related species. This review extends these studies and illustrates how the microarray can also be used as an investigational tool to mine genomic data sets from strains. Three case studies describing the use of the microarray are shown and include: (1) the determination of allelic differences among Cronobacter sakazakii strains possessing the virulence plasmid pESA3; (2) mining of malonate and myo-inositol alleles among subspecies of Cronobacter dublinensis strains to determine subspecies identity; and (3) lastly using the microarray to demonstrate sequence divergence and phylogenetic relatedness trends for 13 outer-membrane protein alleles among 240 Cronobacter and phylogenetically-related strains. The goal of this review is to describe microarrays as a robust tool for genomics research of this assorted and important genus, a criterion toward the development of future preventative measures to eliminate this foodborne pathogen from the global food supply.
Pharmacological Potential and Synthetic Approaches of Imidazo[4,5-b]pyridine and Imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Krause Malwina , Foks Henryk , Gobis Katarzyna
Published: March 2017

The structural resemblance between the fused imidazopyridine heterocyclic ring system and purines has prompted biological investigations to assess their potential therapeutic significance. They are known to play a crucial role in numerous disease conditions. The discovery of their first bioactivity as GABAA receptor positive allosteric modulators divulged their medicinal potential. Proton pump inhibitors, aromatase inhibitors, and NSAIDs were also found in this chemical group. Imidazopyridines have the ability to influence many cellular pathways necessary for the proper functioning of cancerous cells, pathogens, components of the immune system, enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, etc. The collective results of biochemical and biophysical properties foregrounded their medicinal significance in central nervous system, digestive system, cancer, inflammation, etc. In recent years, new preparative methods for the synthesis of imidazopyridines using various catalysts have been described. The present manuscript to the best of our knowledge is the complete compilation on the synthesis and medicinal aspects of imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines and imidazo[4,5-c]pyridines reported from the year 2000 to date, including structure–activity relationships.
Conservation of the Keap1-Nrf2 System: An Evolutionary Journey through Stressful Space and Time
Authors: Fuse Yuji , Kobayashi Makoto
Published: March 2017

The Keap1-Nrf2 system is an evolutionarily conserved defense mechanism against oxidative and xenobiotic stress. Its regulatory mechanisms, e.g., stress-sensing mechanism, proteasome-based regulation of Nrf2 activity and selection of target genes, have been elucidated mainly in mammals. In addition, emerging model animals, such as zebrafish, fruit fly and Caenorhabditis elegans, have been shown to have similar anti-stress systems to mammals, suggesting that analogous defense systems are widely conserved throughout the animal kingdom. Experimental evidence in lower animals provides important information beyond mere laboratory-confined utility, such as regarding how these systems transformed during evolution, which may help characterize the mammalian system in greater detail. Recent advances in genome projects of both model and non-model animals have provided a great deal of useful information toward this end. We herein review the research on Keap1-Nrf2 and its analogous systems in both mammals and lower model animals. In addition, by comparing the amino acid sequences of Nrf2 and Keap1 proteins from various species, we can deduce the evolutionary history of the anti-stress system. This combinatorial approach using both experimental and genetic data will suggest perspectives of approach for researchers studying the stress response.
Evaluating Changes in Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake after Receiving Personal FADS1 Genetic Information: A Randomized Nutrigenetic Intervention
Authors: Roke Kaitlin , Walton Kathryn , Klingel Shannon , Harnett Amber , Subedi Sanjeena , Haines Jess , Mutch David
Published: March 2017

Nutrigenetics research is anticipated to lay the foundation for personalized dietary recommendations; however, it remains unclear if providing individuals with their personal genetic information changes dietary behaviors. Our objective was to evaluate if providing information for a common variant in the fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) gene changed omega-3 fatty acid (FA) intake and blood levels in young female adults (18–25 years). Participants were randomized into Genetic (intervention) and Non-Genetic (control) groups, with measurements taken at Baseline and Final (12 weeks). Dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was assessed using an omega-3 food frequency questionnaire. Red blood cell (RBC) FA content was quantified by gas chromatography. Implications of participation in a nutrigenetics study and awareness of omega-3 FAs were assessed with online questionnaires. Upon completion of the study, EPA and DHA intake increased significantly (p = 1.0 × 10−4) in all participants. This change was reflected by small increases in RBC %EPA. Participants in the Genetic group showed increased awareness of omega-3 terminology by the end of the study, reported that the dietary recommendations were more useful, and rated cost as a barrier to omega-3 consumption less often than those in the Non-Genetic group. Providing participants FADS1 genetic information did not appear to influence omega-3 intake during the 12 weeks, but did change perceptions and behaviors related to omega-3 FAs in this timeframe.
Effects of Resveratrol Supplementation on Methotrexate Chemotherapy‐Induced Bone Loss
Authors: Lee Alice , Shandala Tetyana , Soo Pei , Su Yu‐Wen , King Tristan , Chen Ke‐Ming , Howe Peter , Xian Cory
Published: March 2017

Intensive cancer chemotherapy is known to cause bone defects, which currently lack treatments. This study investigated the effects of polyphenol resveratrol (RES) in preventing bone defects in rats caused by methotrexate (MTX), a commonly used antimetabolite in childhood oncology. Young rats received five daily MTX injections at 0.75 mg/kg/day. RES was orally gavaged daily for seven days prior to, and during, five‐day MTX administration. MTX reduced growth plate thickness, primary spongiosa height, trabecular bone volume, increased marrow adipocyte density, and increased mRNA expression of the osteogenic, adipogenic, and osteoclastogenic factors in the tibial bone. RES at 10 mg/kg was found not to affect bone health in normal rats, but to aggravate the bone damage in MTX‐treated rats. However, RES supplementation at 1 mg/kg preserved the growth plate, primary spongiosa, bone volume, and lowered the adipocyte density. It maintained expression of genes involved in osteogenesis and decreased expression of adipogenic and osteoclastogenic factors. RES suppressed osteoclast formation ex vivo of bone marrow cells from the treated rats. These data suggest that MTX can enhance osteoclast and adipocyte formation and cause bone loss, and that RES supplementation at 1 mg/kg may potentially prevent these bone defects.
Protein Kinase CK2: Intricate Relationships within Regulatory Cellular Networks
Authors: Nuñez de Villavicencio-Diaz Teresa , Rabalski Adam , Litchfield David
Published: March 2017

Protein kinase CK2 is a small family of protein kinases that has been implicated in an expanding array of biological processes. While it is widely accepted that CK2 is a regulatory participant in a multitude of fundamental cellular processes, CK2 is often considered to be a constitutively active enzyme which raises questions about how it can be a regulatory participant in intricately controlled cellular processes. To resolve this apparent paradox, we have performed a systematic analysis of the published literature using text mining as well as mining of proteomic databases together with computational assembly of networks that involve CK2. These analyses reinforce the notion that CK2 is involved in a broad variety of biological processes and also reveal an extensive interplay between CK2 phosphorylation and other post-translational modifications. The interplay between CK2 and other post-translational modifications suggests that CK2 does have intricate roles in orchestrating cellular events. In this respect, phosphorylation of specific substrates by CK2 could be regulated by other post-translational modifications and CK2 could also have roles in modulating other post-translational modifications. Collectively, these observations suggest that the actions of CK2 are precisely coordinated with other constituents of regulatory cellular networks.