bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV Cerebrospinal Fluid Escape and Neurocognitive Pathology in the Era of Combined Antiretroviral Therapy: What Lies Beneath the Tip of the Iceberg in Sub-Saharan Africa?
Authors: Collier Dami Aderonke , Haddow Lewis , Brijkumar Jay , Moosa Mahomed-Yunus S. , Benjamin Laura , Gupta Ravindra K.
Published: October 2018

Neurocognitive impairment remains an important HIV-associated comorbidity despite combination antiretroviral therapy (ART). Since the advent of ART, the spectrum of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) has shifted from the most severe form to milder forms. Independent replication of HIV in the central nervous system despite ART, so-called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) escape is now recognised in the context of individuals with a reconstituted immune system. This review describes the global prevalence and clinical spectrum of CSF escape, it role in the pathogenesis of HAND and current advances in the diagnosis and management. It highlights gaps in knowledge in sub-Saharan Africa where the HIV burden is greatest and discusses the implications for this region in the context of the global HIV treatment scale up.
Iron Depletion Affects Genes Encoding Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain and Genes of Non­Oxidative Metabolism, Pyruvate Kinase and Lactate Dehydrogenase, in Primary Human Cardiac Myocytes Cultured upon Mechanical Stretch
Authors: Dziegala Magdalena , Kobak Kamil A. , Kasztura Monika , Bania Jacek , Josiak Krystian , Banasiak Waldemar , Ponikowski Piotr , Jankowska Ewa A.
Published: October 2018

(1) Background: Oxidative energy metabolism is presumed to rely on the optimal iron supply. Primary human cardiac myocytes (HCM) exposed to different iron availability conditions during mechanical stretch are anticipated to demonstrate expression changes of genes involved in aerobic and anaerobic metabolic pathways. (2) Methods: HCM were cultured for 48 h either in static conditions and upon mechanical stretch at the optimal versus reduced versus increased iron concentrations. We analyzed the expression of pyruvate kinase (PKM2), lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), and mitochondrial complexes I–V at the mRNA and protein levels. The concentration of l-lactate was assessed by means of lactate oxidase method-based kit. (3) Results: Reduced iron concentrations during mechanical work caused a decreased expression of complexes I–V (all p < 0.05). The expression of PKM2 and LDHA, as well as the medium concentration of l-lactate, was increased in these conditions (both p < 0.05). HCM exposed to the increased iron concentration during mechanical effort demonstrated a decreased expression of mitochondrial complexes (all p < 0.01); however, a decrement was smaller than in case of iron chelation (p < 0.05). The iron-enriched medium caused a decrease in expression of LDHA and did not influence the concentration of l-lactate. (4) Conclusions: During mechanical effort, the reduced iron availability enhances anaerobic glycolysis and extracellular lactate production, whilst decreasing mitochondrial aerobic pathway in HCM. Iron enrichment during mechanical effort may be protective in the context of intracellular protein machinery of non-oxidative metabolism with no effect on the extracellular lactate concentration.
Inhibitory-κB Kinase (IKK) α and Nuclear Factor-κB (NFκB)-Inducing Kinase (NIK) as Anti-Cancer Drug Targets
Authors: Paul Andrew , Edwards Joanne , Pepper Christopher , Mackay Simon
Published: October 2018

The cellular kinases inhibitory-κB kinase (IKK) α and Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB)-inducing kinase (NIK) are well recognised as key central regulators and drivers of the non-canonical NF-κB cascade and as such dictate the initiation and development of defined transcriptional responses associated with the liberation of p52-RelB and p52-p52 NF-κB dimer complexes. Whilst these kinases and downstream NF-κB complexes transduce pro-inflammatory and growth stimulating signals that contribute to major cellular processes, they also play a key role in the pathogenesis of a number of inflammatory-based conditions and diverse cancer types, which for the latter may be a result of background mutational status. IKKα and NIK, therefore, represent attractive targets for pharmacological intervention. Here, specifically in the cancer setting, we reflect on the potential pathophysiological role(s) of each of these kinases, their associated downstream signalling outcomes and the stimulatory and mutational mechanisms leading to their increased activation. We also consider the downstream coordination of transcriptional events and phenotypic outcomes illustrative of key cancer ‘Hallmarks’ that are now increasingly perceived to be due to the coordinated recruitment of both NF-κB-dependent as well as NF-κB–independent signalling. Furthermore, as these kinases regulate the transition from hormone-dependent to hormone-independent growth in defined tumour subsets, potential tumour reactivation and major cytokine and chemokine species that may have significant bearing upon tumour-stromal communication and tumour microenvironment it reiterates their potential to be drug targets. Therefore, with the emergence of small molecule kinase inhibitors targeting each of these kinases, we consider medicinal chemistry efforts to date and those evolving that may contribute to the development of viable pharmacological intervention strategies to target a variety of tumour types.
Targeting DNA Binding for NF-κB as an Anticancer Approach in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chung Po , Lam Pik , Zhou Yuanyuan , Gasparello Jessica , Finotti Alessia , Chilin Adriana , Marzaro Giovanni , Gambari Roberto , Bian Zhaoxiang , Kwok Wai , Wong Wai , Wang Xi , Lam Alfred , Chan Albert , Li Xingshu , Ma Jessica , Chui Chung , Lam Kim , Tang Johnny
Published: October 2018

Quinoline core has been shown to possess a promising role in the development of anticancer agents. However, the correlation between its broad spectrum of bioactivity and the underlying mechanism of actions is poorly understood. The present study, with the use of bioinformatics approaches, reported a series of designed molecules which integrated quinoline core and sulfonyl moiety, with the objective of evaluating the substituent and linker effects on anticancer activities and associated mechanistic targets. We identified potent compounds (1h, 2h, 5 and 8) exhibiting significant anticancer effects towards liver cancer cells (Hep3B) with the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) relative values of cytotoxicity below 0.40, a value in the range of doxorubicin positive control with the value of 0.12. Bulky substituents and the presence of bromine atom, as well as the presence of sulfonamide linkage, are likely the favorable structural components for molecules exerting a strong anticancer effect. To the best of our knowledge, our findings obtained from chemical synthesis, in vitro cytotoxicity, bioinformatics-based molecular docking analysis (similarity ensemble approach, SEA),and electrophoretic mobility shift assay provided the first evidence in correlation to the anticancer activities of the selected compound 5 with the modulation on the binding of transcription factor NF-κB to its target DNA. Accordingly, compound 5 represented a lead structure for the development of quinoline-based NF-κB inhibitors and this work added novel information on the understanding of the mechanism of action for bioactive sulfonyl-containing quinoline compounds against hepatocellular carcinoma.
In Situ Study of Road Marking Durability Using Glass Microbeads and Antiskid Aggregates as Drop-On Materials
Authors: Coves-Campos Andrés , Bañón Luis , Coves-García José Andrés , Ivorra Salvador
Published: October 2018

Road markings play an important role in road safety because they provide significant information to drivers about the road. For that reason, they must be replaced when they are not correctly perceived by road users. To analyse which are the main factors that affect road marking perception over time, a test section was designed in a two-lane rural highway, running actual traffic over 18 different types of markings fabricated with different combinations of drop-on materials. Chromatic coordinates, luminance, and retroreflectivity of each sample were measured during 18 months in order to study their evolution over time. The results obtained show different behaviours depending on the aggregates and application method used. An increment of the durability has been observed with the use of different layers and mixtures of glass microbeads with different sizes.
Highly Visible Photoluminescence from Ta-Doped Structures of ZnO Films Grown by HFCVD
Authors: Herrera Víctor , Díaz-Becerril Tomás , Reyes-Cervantes Eric , García-Salgado Godofredo , Galeazzi Reina , Morales Crisóforo , Rosendo Enrique , Coyopol Antonio , Romano Román , Nieto-Caballero Fabiola G.
Published: October 2018

Tantalum-doped ZnO structures (ZnO:Ta) were synthesized, and some of their characteristics were studied. ZnO material was deposited on silicon substrates by using a hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) reactor. The raw materials were a pellet made of a mixture of ZnO and Ta2O5 powders, and molecular hydrogen was used as a reactant gas. The percentage of tantalum varied from 0 to 500 mg by varying the percentages of tantalum oxide in the mixture of the pellet source, by holding a fixed amount of 500 mg of ZnO in all experiments. X-ray diffractograms confirmed the presence of zinc oxide in the wurtzite phase, and metallic zinc with a hexagonal structure, and no other phase was detected. Displacements to lower angles of reflection peaks, compared with those from samples without doping, were interpreted as the inclusion of the Ta atoms in the matrix of the ZnO. This fact was confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. From scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images from undoped samples, mostly micro-sized semi-spherical structures were seen, while doped samples displayed a trend to grow as nanocrystalline rods. The presence of tantalum during the synthesis affected the growth direction. Green photoluminescence was observed by the naked eye when Ta-doped samples were illuminated by ultraviolet radiation and confirmed by photoluminescence (PL) spectra. The PL intensity on the Ta-doped ZnO increased from those undoped samples up to eight times.
Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (CNLDO): A Review
Authors: Vagge Aldo , Ferro Desideri Lorenzo , Nucci Paolo , Serafino Massimiliano , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Lembo Andrea , Traverso Carlo Enrico
Published: October 2018

Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is a common condition causing excessive tearing or mucoid discharge from the eyes, due to blockage of the nasolacrimal duct system. Nasolacrimal duct obstruction affects as many as 20% children aged <1 year worldwide and is often resolved without surgery. Available treatment options are conservative therapy, including observation, lacrimal sac massage and antibiotics, and invasive therapy. Observation, combined with conservative options, seems to be the best option in infants aged <1 year. Meanwhile, in children aged >1 year, nasolacrimal probing successfully addresses most obstructions. However, the most favorable timing for probing remains controversial. To alleviate persistent epiphora and mucous drainage that is refractory to probing, repeat probing, silicone tube intubation, balloon catheter dilation or dacryocystorhinostomy can be considered as available treatment options. Our review aims to provide an update to CNDO management protocols.
Comparing the Antimicrobial In Vitro Efficacy of Amoxicillin/Metronidazole against Azithromycin—A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaufmann Manuela , Lenherr Patrik , Walter Clemens , Thurnheer Thomas , Attin Thomas , Wiedemeier Daniel B. , Schmidlin Patrick R.
Published: October 2018

On account of its proven clinical efficacy, the combination of systemically administered amoxicillin and metronidazole is frequently adjuncted to non-operative periodontal therapy and well documented. Potential drawbacks of this regimen, e.g., side effects and problems with the compliance, led to an ongoing search for alternatives. Azithromycin, an antibiotic extensively used in general medicine, has recently found its niche in periodontal therapy as well. This systematic review aimed to analyze the in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of amoxicillin plus metronidazole versus azithromycin. For this purpose, a systematic literature search was performed, and studies published up to 29 March 2018 referenced in Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Biosis were independently screened by two authors. An additional hand search was performed and studies focusing on the evaluation of in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of amoxicillin + metronidazole or azithromycin on bacteria from the subgingival biofilm were included. English and German language research reports were considered. From 71 identified articles, only three articles were eligible for inclusion. These studies showed heterogeneity in terms of analytical methods and strains explored. However, all studies used multispecies biofilm models for analysis of the antimicrobial activity. Unanimously, studies reported on more pronounced antimicrobial effects when applying the combination of amoxicillin + metronidazole, compared to azithromycin. Based on the few studies available, the combination of amoxicillin + metronidazole seemed to display higher antimicrobial efficacy in vitro than azithromycin.
Influence of Input Climatic Data on Simulations of Annual Energy Needs of a Building: EnergyPlus and WRF Modeling for a Case Study in Rome (Italy)
Authors: Ciancio Virgilio , Falasca Serena , Golasi Iacopo , Curci Gabriele , Coppi Massimo , Salata Ferdinando
Published: October 2018

The simulation of the energy consumptions in an hourly regime is necessary in order to perform calculations on residential buildings of particular relevance for volume or for architectural features. In such cases, the simplified methodology provided by the regulations may be inadequate, and the use of software like EnergyPlus is needed. To obtain reliable results, usually, significant time is spent on the meticulous insertion of the geometrical inputs of the building, together with the properties of the envelope materials and systems. Less attention is paid to the climate database. The databases available on the EnergyPlus website refer to airports located in rural areas near major cities. If the building to be simulated is located in a metropolitan area, it may be affected by the local heat island, and the database used as input to the software should take this phenomenon into account. To this end, it is useful to use a meteorological model such as the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to construct an appropriate input climate file. A case study based on a building located in the city center of Rome (Italy) shows that, if the climatic forcing linked to the heat island is not considered, the estimated consumption due to the cooling is underestimated by 35–50%. In particular, the analysis and the seasonal comparison between the energy needs of the building simulated by EnergyPlus, with the climatic inputs related to two airports in the rural area of Rome and with the inputs provided by the WRF model related to the center of Rome, show discrepancies of about (i) WRF vs. Fiumicino (FCO): Δ = −3.48% for heating, Δ = 49.25% for cooling; (ii) WRF vs. Ciampino (CIA): Δ = −7.38% for heating, Δ = +35.52% for cooling.
Comprehensive Performance Assessment on Various Battery Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Zhao Haoran , Guo Sen , Zhao Huiru
Published: October 2018

With the increasing development of renewable resources-based electricity generation and the construction of wind-photovoltaic-energy storage combination exemplary projects, the intermittent and fluctuating nature of renewable resources exert great challenges for the power grid to supply electricity reliably and stably. An energy storage system (ESS) is deemed to be the most valid solution to deal with these challenges. Considering the various types of ESSs, it is necessary to develop a comprehensive assessment framework for selecting appropriate energy storage techniques in establishing exemplary projects combining renewable resources-based electricity generation and an ESS. This paper proposes a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model combining a fuzzy-Delphi approach to establish the comprehensive assessment indicator system, the entropy weight determination method, and the best-worst method (BWM) to calculate weights of all sub-criteria, and a Vlsekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) comprehensive evaluation model to choose the optimal battery ESS. In accordance with the comprehensive evaluation results, the Li-ion battery is the optimal battery ESS to apply to wind-photovoltaic-energy storage combination exemplary projects. Based on the discussion on the comprehensive evaluation results, policy implications are suggested to improve the applicability of battery ESSs and provide some references for decision makers in related fields.
Preliminary Performance Tests and Simulation of a V-Shape Roof Guide Vane Mounted on an Eco-Roof System
Authors: Wang Xiaohang , Chong Wentong , Wong Kokhoe , Saw Liphuat , Poh Sinchew , Lai Saihin , Wang Chin-Tsan
Published: October 2018

The technical and economic features of a patented V-shape roof guide vane (VRGV) with a solar and wind power generation system mounted on an eco-roof system are presented in this paper. Moreover, this innovative VRGV was investigated on for the purpose of improving the performance of a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT), which was installed on an eco-roof system to solve the low-efficiency power generation problem of the wind turbines under the condition of a low wind speed. This paper proposes a preliminary study for the performance of the VAWT with the VRGV on a building. This research used a mock-up building with a double slope roof, where a five straight-bladed VAWT was mounted and tested under two conditions, with and without the VRGV. From the comparative experiments, the self-starting performance and rotational speed of the VAWT mounted above a double slope roof with the VRGV have been significantly improved compared to the VAWT without the VRGV. Further, the power coefficient (Cp) of the VAWT can be augmented to about 71.2% increment due to the VRGV design. In addition, numerical simulations by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were proposed to verify the augmented effect of the Cp of the VAWT under the influence of the VRGV in the experiment. Besides, economic estimation of the VRGV was conducted.
Legal and Regulatory Development of Nuclear Energy in Bangladesh
Authors: Karim Ridoan , Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus , Karim Mohammad Ershadul , Munir Abu Bakar , Sifat Imtiaz Mohammad , Abu-Bakar Siti Hawa , Bani Nurul Aini , Muhtazaruddin Mohd Nabil
Published: October 2018

The adequacy of legal and regulatory framework relating to nuclear energy in Bangladesh has sparked many questions since the government took the formal decision to establish a nuclear power plant (NPP) at Rooppur. Consequently, the government has taken some measures to make a comprehensive and robust framework to ensure safe and secure nuclear energy production in the country. Even though these initiatives are highly appreciable, there remain certain regulatory concerns which this paper has attempted to reflect. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to showcase the recent legal and regulatory development of Bangladesh in relation to nuclear energy and to recommend further developments. The study was based on secondary sources where a doctrinal research was carried out to solve particular research questions. The safety and security of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant will frankly rely on how the government of Bangladesh plans and learns to implement, design, safeguard, exchange and further develop nuclear energy related knowledge and talent around the country.
Schedule Modeling to Estimate Typical Construction Durations and Areas of Risk for 1000 MW Ultra-Critical Coal-Fired Power Plants
Authors: Lee Hyun-Chul , Lee Eul-Bum , Alleman Douglas
Published: October 2018

To date, Korea has built four 1000 MW gross-power ultra-critical coal-fired power plants. With the introduction of this new power plant type, there is a need for the development of best practices and lessons learned associated with its construction. One such need identified as a gap in literature is the early project planning estimation of project duration. To fill this research gap, this study utilized the Program Evaluation and Review Technique/Critical Path Method (PERT/CPM) and Monte Carlo simulations for estimating the appropriate construction duration at the planning stage of a new 1000 MW class coal-fired power plant project. Through the case study of the four Korean ultra-critical coal-fired power plants in operation, there was found an 85% likelihood of construction duration to be between 64 and 68 months. From interviews with subject matter experts, the most significant risk factors were found to be labor strikes and construction safety incidents. The findings within aid early planning decision makers by providing a replicable and accurate schedule estimation process. While the findings are based on Korean power plants, the results of this research can be used as a tool for coal-fired power plant construction schedule estimation worldwide.
A Real-Time Pricing Scheme for Energy Management in Integrated Energy Systems: A Stackelberg Game Approach
Authors: Ma Tengfei , Wu Junyong , Hao Liangliang , Yan Huaguang , Li Dezhi
Published: October 2018

This paper proposes a real-time pricing scheme for the demand response management between one energy provider and multiple energy hub operators. A promising energy trading scenario has been designed for the near future integrated energy system. The Stackelberg game approach was employed to capture the interactions between the energy provider (leader) and energy consumers (follower). A distributed algorithm was proposed to derive the Stackelberg equilibrium, then, the best strategies for the energy provider and each energy hub operator were explored in order to maximize their benefits. Simulation results showed that the proposed method can balance the energy supply and demand, improve the payoffs for all players, as well as smooth the aggregated load profiles of all energy consumers.
Factors Affecting the Installation Potential of Ground Source Heat Pump Systems: A Comparative Study for the Sendai Plain and Aizu Basin, Japan
Authors: Kaneko Shohei , Uchida Youhei , Shrestha Gaurav , Ishihara Takeshi , Yoshioka Mayumi
Published: October 2018

Evaluating the installation potential of ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems based on the hydrogeological condition of an area is important for the installation and sustainable use of the system. This work is the first to have compared the distributions of heat exchange rate in the Sendai Plain and Aizu Basin (Japan) in terms of topographical and hydrogeological conditions. A regional groundwater flow and heat transport model was constructed for the Sendai Plain. Suitability assessment was conducted for an identical closed-loop system by preparing the distribution maps of heat exchange rate for space heating for the plain and basin. For both locations, the upstream area showed a higher heat exchange rate than the downstream area. Multiple regression analysis was conducted using heat exchange rate as a response variable. Average groundwater flow velocity and average subsurface temperature were considered as explanatory variables. The heat exchange rate for the plain, whose Péclet number ranged from 3.5 × 10−3–7.3 × 10−2, was affected by groundwater flow velocity and subsurface temperature. The exchange rate for the basin, whose Péclet number ranged from 8.5 × 10−2–5.8 × 10−1, was affected by groundwater flow velocity. Inland basins are likely to be more suitable for GSHP system installation utilizing groundwater flow than coastal plains in terms of inclination of slope. This study showed that multiple regression analysis can reveal factors affecting the heat exchange rate as well as the degree to which they affect it.
Stakeholder Assessment of the Feasibility of Poplar as a Biomass Feedstock and Ecosystem Services Provider in Southwestern Washington, USA
Authors: Hart Noelle M. , Townsend Patricia A. , Chowyuk Amira , Gustafson Rick
Published: October 2018

Advanced Hardwood Biofuels Northwest (AHB), a USDA NIFA-funded consortium of university and industry partners, identified southwestern Washington as a potential location for a regional bioproducts industry using poplar trees (Populus spp.) as the feedstock. In this qualitative case study, we present the results of an exploratory feasibility investigation based on conversations with agricultural and natural resources stakeholders. This research complements a techno-economic modelling of a hypothetical biorefinery near Centralia, WA, USA. Interviews and group discussions explored the feasibility of a poplar-based bioproducts industry in southwestern WA, especially as it relates to converting land to poplar farms and the potential for poplar to provide ecosystem services. Stakeholders revealed challenges to local agriculture, past failures to profit from poplar (for pulp/sawlogs), land-use planning efforts for flood mitigation and salmon conservation, questions about biorefinery operations, and a need for a new economic opportunity that “pencils out”. Overall, if the business model is convincing, participants see chances for win-win situations where landowners could profit growing poplar on otherwise low-value acreage and achieve ecosystem services for wastewater or floodplain management.
Impacts of Climate Change and Bioenergy Markets on the Profitability of Slash Pine Pulpwood Production in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Susaeta Andres , Lal Pankaj
Published: October 2018

In this study, we assessed the impacts of climate change on the production of pulpwood and biomass for bioenergy, and the profitability of slash pine stands in the Southeastern United States. We employed the 3-PG (Physiological Processes Predicting Growth) model to determine the effects of future climates on forest growth and integrated it with a stand-level economic model to determine their impacts on optimal forest management. We found that the average production of pulpwood increased for all sites by 7.5 m3 ha−1 for all climatic scenarios and productivity conditions. In the case of forest biomass for bioenergy, the average increase was less than 1 Mg ha−1. Considering a payment for forest biomass for bioenergy of $4.2 per green Mg−1, the land expectation values (LEVs), on average, increased by $242.1 ha−1 under extreme climatic conditions and high productivity conditions. However, the increase in LEVs due to payments for biomass for bioenergy was small, accounting for $23 ha−1. We also found that the combined effect of increased site productivity and climate change reduced the optimal harvest age of slash pine. Our results confirm that emerging bioenergy markets coupled with changing climatic conditions can increase the economic returns for landowners.
Do Mixed Fire Regimes Shape Plant Flammability and Post-Fire Recovery Strategies?
Authors: Poulos Helen M. , Barton Andrew M. , Slingsby Jasper A. , Bowman David M.J.S.
Published: October 2018

The development of frameworks for better-understanding ecological syndromes and putative evolutionary strategies of plant adaptation to fire has recently received a flurry of attention, including a new model hypothesizing that plants have diverged into three different plant flammability strategies due to natural selection. We provide three case studies of pyromes/taxa (Pinus, the Proteaceae of the Cape Floristic Region, and Eucalyptus) that, contrary to model assumptions, reveal that plant species often exhibit traits of more than one of these flammability and post-fire recovery strategies. We propose that such multiple-strategy adaptations have been favoured as bet-hedging strategies in response to selective pressure from mixed-fire regimes experienced by these species over evolutionary time.
Geographic Patterns of Fire Severity Following an Extreme Eucalyptus Forest Fire in Southern Australia: 2013 Forcett-Dunalley Fire
Authors: Ndalila Mercy N. , Williamson Grant J. , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: October 2018

Fire severity is an important characteristic of fire regimes; however, global assessments of fire regimes typically focus more on fire frequency and burnt area. Our objective in this case study is to use multiple lines of evidence to understand fire severity and intensity patterns and their environmental correlates in the extreme 2013 Forcett-Dunalley fire in southeast Tasmania, Australia. We use maximum likelihood classification of aerial photography, and fire behavior equations, to report on fire severity and intensity patterns, and compare the performance of multiple thresholds of the normalised burn ratio (dNBR) and normalized difference vegetation index (dNDVI) (from pre- and post-fire Landsat 7 images) against classified aerial photography. We investigate how vegetation, topography, and fire weather, and therefore intensity, influenced fire severity patterns. According to the aerial photographic classification, the fire burnt 25,950 ha of which 5% burnt at low severities, 17% at medium severity, 32% at high severity, 23% at very high severities, while 22% contained unburnt patches. Generalized linear modelling revealed that fire severity was strongly influenced by slope angle, aspect, and interactions between vegetation type and fire weather (FFDI) ranging from moderate (12) to catastrophic (>100). Extreme fire weather, which occurred in 2% of the total fire duration of the fire (16 days), caused the fire to burn nearly half (46%) of the total area of the fireground and resulted in modelled extreme fireline intensities among all vegetation types, including an inferred peak of 68,000 kW·m−1 in dry forest. The best satellite-based severity map was the site-specific dNBR (45% congruence with aerial photography) showing dNBR potential in Eucalyptus forests, but the reliability of this approach must be assessed using aerial photography, and/or ground assessment.
Energy Modelling and Indoor Air Quality Analysis of Cooling Systems for Buildings in Hot Climates
Authors: Shaikh Zohaib , Nasarullah Chaudhry Hassam
Published: October 2018

Energy consumption due to cooling and ventilation of buildings has grown significantly within the last two decades, and therefore advancement in cooling technologies has become imperative to maximise energy savings. This work numerically investigates the performance of vapour-compression unitary and centralised cooling systems for high rise buildings using an office case-study in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Energy modelling, thermal comfort and indoor air quality analyses have been carried out using the Integrated Environmental Simulation Virtual Environment (IES-VE). Using the benchmark system based on fan-coil units, the findings have indicated that attaching a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) fan can reduce the overall energy consumption of the building by 8%, with 20% reduction in the cooling loads. The unitary cooling system operating on variable refrigerant flow principle achieved an energy reduction of approximately 30%; however, this system is not recommended in high-rise buildings as the CO2 concentration obtained is in excess of 3000 ppm, which is considerably higher than ASHRAE standards. It is essential for buildings running in hot climates to incorporate hybrid cooling techniques to relieve the load on conventional active cooling systems.
Genetic Polymorphisms and In Silico Mutagenesis Analyses of CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYPOR Genes in the Pakistani Population
Authors: Ahmed Shabbir , Zhou Jie , Zhou Zhan , Chen Shu-Qing
Published: October 2018

Diverse distributions of pharmacogenetically relevant variants of highly polymorphic CYP2C9, CYP2D6 and CYPOR genes are responsible for some varied drug responses observed across human populations. There is limited data available regarding the pharmacogenetic polymorphisms and frequency distributions of major allele variants in the Pakistani population. The present in silico mutagenesis study conducted on genotype pharmacogenetic variants and comparative analysis with a global population aims to extend the currently limited pharmacogenetic available evidence for the indigenous Pakistani population. Extracted genomic DNA from 244 healthy individuals’ venous blood samples were amplified for distinct variant loci in the CYP2C9, CYP2D6 and CYPOR genes. Two-way sequencing results were compared with standard PubMed data and sequence variant loci confirmed by Chromas. This study revealed significant variations in CYP2C9 (rs1799853, rs1057910 and rs72558189), CYP2D6 (rs16947 and rs1135840), and CYPOR (rs1057868, rs781919285 and rs562750402) variants in intraethnic and interethnic frequency distributions. In silico mutagenesis and three-dimensional protein structural alignment analysis approaches clearly exposed the possible varied impact of rare CYPOR (rs781919285 and rs562750402) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and confirmed that the influences of CYP2C9 and CYP2D6 variants are consistent with what was found in earlier studies. This investigation highlighted the need to study pharmacogenetic relevance loci and documentation since evidence could be utilized to elucidate genetic backgrounds of drug metabolism, and provide a basis for future pharmacogenomic studies and adequate dose adjustments in Pakistani and global populations.
The Effects of Ultrasonic Disintegration as a Function of Waste Activated Sludge Characteristics and Technical Conditions of Conducting the Process—Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Tytła Malwina
Published: October 2018

A comprehensive analysis of the effects obtained in the process of ultrasonic disintegration (UD) of waste activated sludge (WAS), was conducted. Sludge samples were collected periodically from Central Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Gliwice (Poland) and disintegrated in the two ultrasonic devices of different construction and technical parameters, i.e., WK-2010 (A) and ultrasonic washer (B). The experiments were performed under a constant energy supply per sludge volume EV = 160 kWh·m−3. The direct and technological effects, i.e., after UD and anaerobic digestion (AD) were investigated, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that characteristics and parameters of the WAS, which affects the magnitude of the direct effects create the following sequence: TS (total solids), VS (volatile solids), ΔT (temperature increase) > EPS (extracellular polymeric substances) > SCOD (soluble chemical oxygen demand) > CST (capillary suction time) > NTOT (total nitrogen), PTOT (total phosphorus) > pH. Whereas, in the case of technological effects, the above sequence was as follows: TS, VS > CST > NTOT, PTOT > pH. Ultrasonic disintegration of WAS prior to AD increased total biogas production (from 13.0% to 19.7%) and reduced the content of TS (from 4.1% to 8.2%) and VS (5.8% to 9.5%) in comparison to the control sample. This confirms the usefulness of ultrasonic disintegration as an effective method of sludge digestion intensification. The obtained results showed that changes in the characteristics of WAS have a significant impact on the magnitude of the effects of ultrasonic disintegration, especially TS, VS, ΔT, EPS, SCOD and CST. Concluding, it can be inferred that the most promising conditions for ultrasonic pretreatment conducted under constant energy supply per sludge volume, are: low power, long sonication time, large surface area of the emitter, and high increase of sludge temperature while conducting the process.
Distribution Characteristics and Source of Dechloranes in Soil and Lichen of the Fildes Peninsula (Antarctica)
Authors: Gao Hui , Na Guangshui , Yao Yao , Li Ruijing , Gao Yuhang , Zhang Zhifeng , Yao Ziwei
Published: October 2018

Dechloranes (Decs) have been widely found in the environment, even in the Tibetan Plateau and remote polar regions. However, the understanding of their regional distribution characteristics in polar regions is limited. To study the long-range atmospheric transport and fates of these emerging contaminants, Decs were analyzed in soil and lichen from the Fildes Peninsula in Antarctica. The concentrations of five Decs in soil and lichen ranged from 141.46 to 838.47 pg/g dw and 237.04 to 3599.18 pg/g dw, respectively. The mean fractions of anti-Dechlorane Plus (DP) (fanti) values estimated in the current soils (0.37) and lichen (0.24) were lower than those of commercial products (fanti = 0.64–0.80), which confirms that long-range atmospheric transport is a main source of DP, and the DP burdens could be driven by the accumulation of syn-DP. The average ΣDP concentration in soil in the coastal area was higher than that in the inland area and Ardley Island, while in lichen, the average DP concentration at the Ardley Island site was approximately three-fold higher than that in the coastal area and inland areas. This indicates that the distribution of DP was influenced by anthropogenic interference and animal activities in the Fildes Peninsula. The spatial variation of fanti of the three regions was clearer in soil than that in lichen. The fanti values were negatively correlated with DP concentrations in soil, suggesting that DP concentration levels play an important role in determining the isomeric composition of DP in the soil.
Comparison of Thermal Response for RF Exposure in Human and Rat Models
Authors: Kodera Sachiko , Hirata Akimasa
Published: October 2018

In the international guidelines/standards for human protection against electromagnetic fields, the specific absorption rate (SAR) is used as a metric for radio-frequency field exposure. For radio-frequency near-field exposure, the peak value of the SAR averaged over 10 g of tissue is treated as a surrogate of the local temperature elevation for frequencies up to 3–10 GHz. The limit of 10-g SAR is derived by extrapolating the thermal damage in animal experiments. However, no reports discussed the difference between the time constant of temperature elevation in small animals and humans for local exposure. This study computationally estimated the thermal time constants of temperature elevation in human head and rat models exposed to dipole antennas at 3–10 GHz. The peak temperature elevation in the human brain was lower than that in the rat model, mainly because of difference in depth from the scalp. Consequently, the thermal time constant of the rat brain was smaller than that of the human brain. Additionally, the thermal time constant in human skin decreased with increasing frequency, which was mainly characterized by the effective SAR volume, whereas it was almost frequency-independent in the human brain. These findings should be helpful for extrapolating animal studies to humans.
How to Process Sputum Samples and Extract Bacterial DNA for Microbiota Analysis
Authors: Terranova Leonardo , Oriano Martina , Teri Antonio , Ruggiero Luca , Tafuro Camilla , Marchisio Paola , Gramegna Andrea , Contarini Martina , Franceschi Elisa , Sottotetti Samantha , Cariani Lisa , Bevivino Annamaria , Chalmers James D. , Aliberti Stefano , Blasi Francesco
Published: October 2018

Different steps and conditions for DNA extraction for microbiota analysis in sputum have been reported in the literature. We aimed at testing both dithiothreitol (DTT) and enzymatic treatments of sputum samples and identifying the most suitable DNA extraction technique for the microbiota analysis of sputum. Sputum treatments with and without DTT were compared in terms of their median levels and the coefficient of variation between replicates of both DNA extraction yield and real-time PCR for the 16S rRNA gene. Treatments with and without lysozyme and lysostaphin were compared in terms of their median levels of real-time PCR for S. aureus. Two enzyme-based and three beads-based techniques for DNA extraction were compared in terms of their DNA extraction yield, real-time PCR for the 16S rRNA gene and microbiota analysis. DTT treatment decreased the coefficient of variation between replicates of both DNA extraction yield and real-time PCR. Lysostaphin (either 0.18 or 0.36 mg/mL) and lysozyme treatments increased S. aureus detection. One enzyme-based kit offered the highest DNA yield and 16S rRNA gene real-time PCR with no significant differences in terms of alpha-diversity indexes. A condition using both DTT and lysostaphin/lysozyme treatments along with an enzymatic kit seems to be preferred for the microbiota analysis of sputum samples.
Type I Interferon Signaling Is Required for Dacryoadenitis in the Nonobese Diabetic Mouse Model of Sjögren Syndrome
Authors: Chaly Yury , Barr Jennifer Y. , Sullivan David A. , Thomas Helen E. , Brodnicki Thomas C. , Lieberman Scott M.
Published: October 2018

Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice spontaneously develop lacrimal and salivary gland autoimmunity similar to human Sjögren syndrome. In both humans and NOD mice, the early immune response that drives T-cell infiltration into lacrimal and salivary glands is poorly understood. In NOD mice, lacrimal gland autoimmunity spontaneously occurs only in males with testosterone playing a role in promoting lacrimal gland inflammation, while female lacrimal glands are protected by regulatory T cells (Tregs). The mechanisms of this male-specific lacrimal gland autoimmunity are not known. Here, we studied the effects of Treg depletion in hormone-manipulated NOD mice and lacrimal gland gene expression to determine early signals required for lacrimal gland inflammation. While Treg-depletion was not sufficient to drive dacryoadenitis in castrated male NOD mice, chemokines (Cxcl9, Ccl19) and other potentially disease-relevant genes (Epsti1, Ubd) were upregulated in male lacrimal glands. Expression of Cxcl9 and Ccl19, in particular, remained significantly upregulated in the lacrimal glands of lymphocyte-deficient NOD-severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice and their expression was modulated by type I interferon signaling. Notably, Ifnar1-deficient NOD mice did not develop dacryoadenitis. Together these data identify disease-relevant genes upregulated in the context of male-specific dacryoadenitis and demonstrate a requisite role for type I interferon signaling in lacrimal gland autoimmunity in NOD mice.
Lipid Identification and Transcriptional Analysis of Controlling Enzymes in Bovine Ovarian Follicle
Authors: Bertevello Priscila Silvana , Teixeira-Gomes Ana-Paula , Seyer Alexandre , Vitorino Carvalho Anaïs , Labas Valérie , Blache Marie-Claire , Banliat Charles , Cordeiro Luiz Augusto Vieira , Duranthon Veronique , Papillier Pascal , Maillard Virginie , Elis Sebastien , Uzbekova Svetlana
Published: October 2018

Ovarian follicle provides a favorable environment for enclosed oocytes, which acquire their competence in supporting embryo development in tight communications with somatic follicular cells and follicular fluid (FF). Although steroidogenesis in theca (TH) and granulosa cells (GC) is largely studied, and the molecular mechanisms of fatty acid (FA) metabolism in cumulus cells (CC) and oocytes are emerging, little data is available regarding lipid metabolism regulation within ovarian follicles. In this study, we investigated lipid composition and the transcriptional regulation of FA metabolism in 3–8 mm ovarian follicles in bovine. Using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS), 438 and 439 lipids were identified in FF and follicular cells, respectively. From the MALDI-TOF MS lipid fingerprints of FF, TH, GC, CC, and oocytes, and the MS imaging of ovarian sections, we identified 197 peaks and determined more abundant lipids in each compartment. Transcriptomics revealed lipid metabolism-related genes, which were expressed constitutively or more specifically in TH, GC, CC, or oocytes. Coupled with differential lipid composition, these data suggest that the ovarian follicle contains the metabolic machinery that is potentially capable of metabolizing FA from nutrient uptake, degrading and producing lipoproteins, performing de novo lipogenesis, and accumulating lipid reserves, thus assuring oocyte energy supply, membrane synthesis, and lipid-mediated signaling to maintain follicular homeostasis.
Distinct Signatures of Host Defense Suppression by Plant-Feeding Mites
Authors: Schimmel Bernardus C. J. , Alba Juan M. , Wybouw Nicky , Glas Joris J. , Meijer Tomas T. , Schuurink Robert C. , Kant Merijn R.
Published: October 2018

Tomato plants are attacked by diverse herbivorous arthropods, including by cell-content-feeding mites, such as the extreme generalist Tetranychus urticae and specialists like Tetranychus evansi and Aculops lycopersici. Mite feeding induces plant defense responses that reduce mite performance. However, T. evansi and A. lycopersici suppress plant defenses via poorly understood mechanisms and, consequently, maintain a high performance on tomato. On a shared host, T. urticae can be facilitated by either of the specialist mites, likely due to the suppression of plant defenses. To better understand defense suppression and indirect plant-mediated interactions between herbivorous mites, we used gene-expression microarrays to analyze the transcriptomic changes in tomato after attack by either a single mite species (T. urticae, T. evansi, A. lycopersici) or two species simultaneously (T. urticae plus T. evansi or T. urticae plus A. lycopersici). Additionally, we assessed mite-induced changes in defense-associated phytohormones using LC-MS/MS. Compared to non-infested controls, jasmonates (JAs) and salicylate (SA) accumulated to higher amounts upon all mite-infestation treatments, but the response was attenuated after single infestations with defense-suppressors. Strikingly, whereas 8 to 10% of tomato genes were differentially expressed upon single infestations with T. urticae or A. lycopersici, respectively, only 0.1% was altered in T. evansi-infested plants. Transcriptome analysis of dual-infested leaves revealed that A. lycopersici primarily suppressed T. urticae-induced JA defenses, while T. evansi dampened T. urticae-triggered host responses on a transcriptome-wide scale. The latter suggests that T. evansi not solely down-regulates plant gene expression, but rather directs it back towards housekeeping levels. Our results provide valuable new insights into the mechanisms underlying host defense suppression and the plant-mediated facilitation of competing herbivores.