bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Resolution Observations of Transport and Exchange Processes in Mountainous Terrain
Authors: Emeis Stefan , Kalthoff Norbert , Adler Bianca , Pardyjak Eric , Paci Alexandre , Junkermann Wolfgang
Published: November 2018

Mountainous areas require appropriate measurement strategies to cover the full spectrum of details concerning the energy exchange at the Earth’s surface and to capture the spatiotemporal distribution of atmospheric dynamic and thermodynamic fields over them. This includes the range from turbulence to mesoscale processes and its interaction. The surface energy balance needs appropriate measurement strategies as well. In this paper, we present an overview of important experiments performed over mountainous terrain and summarize the available techniques for flow and energy measurements in complex terrain. The description includes ground-based and airborne in situ observations as well as ground-based and airborne remote sensing (passive and active) observations. Emphasis is placed on systems which retrieve spatiotemporal information on mesoscale and smaller scales, fitting mountainous terrain research needs. Finally, we conclude with a short list summarizing challenges and gaps one faces when dealing with measurements over complex terrain.
The Effect of Edible Chitosan Coatings Incorporated with Thymus capitatus Essential Oil on the Shelf-Life of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) during Cold Storage
Authors: Martínez Keydis , Ortiz Marta , Albis Alberto , Gilma Gutiérrez Castañeda Clara , Valencia Mayra Eliana , Grande Tovar Carlos David
Published: November 2018

The strawberry is a fruit appreciated in the food industry for its high content of bioactive compounds. However, it is considered a highly perishable fruit, generally attacked by pests of phytopathogenic origin, which decreases its shelf-life. Normally, to diminish the losses caused by pathogenic microbes, coatings of polysaccharides in combination with natural products like essential oils are applied. In this work, we describe the effect of edible coatings from chitosan (CT) incorporating Thymus capitatus essential oil (TCEO), applied to strawberries stored under refrigeration conditions (5 ± 0.5 °C). Different concentrations of TCEO were applied to chitosan coatings, with different effects on the physical and microbiological properties of the strawberries. All the products had greater acceptance and quality than the controls, being more effective those with essential oil incorporation. It is noteworthy that all the essential oil treatments lead to an increase in the shelf-life of strawberries of up to 15 days. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the microstructure showed a decrease in compactness with TCEO introduction, but without compromising food preservation after 15 days. In addition, treated strawberries delayed the loss of physicochemical and antioxidant properties, due to protection against the microbial development of aerobic mesophylls, molds, and yeasts.
HSP70 Inhibitor Suppresses IGF-I-Stimulated Migration of Osteoblasts through p44/p42 MAP Kinase
Authors: Kawabata Tetsu , Tokuda Haruhiko , Sakai Go , Fujita Kazuhiko , Matsushima-Nishiwaki Rie , Kuroyanagi Gen , Otsuka Takanobu , Kozawa Osamu
Published: November 2018

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) is a ubiquitously expressed molecular chaperone in a variety of cells including osteoblasts. We previously showed that insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) elicits migration of osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells through the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. In the present study, we investigated the effects of HSP70 inhibitors on the IGF-I-elicited migration of these cells and the mechanism involved. The IGF-I-stimulated osteoblast migration evaluated by a wound-healing assay and by a transwell cell migration was significantly reduced by VER-155008 and YM-08, which are both HSP70 inhibitors. VER-155008 markedly suppressed the IGF-I-induced phosphorylation of p44/p42 MAP kinase without affecting that of Akt. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that the HSP70 inhibitor reduces the IGF-I-elicited migration of osteoblasts via the p44/p42 MAP kinase.
The Benefits of Closed-Loop Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation on Subjective Sleep Quality
Authors: Robinson Charles S. H. , Bryant Natalie B. , Maxwell Joshua W. , Jones Aaron P. , Robert Bradley , Lamphere Melanie , Combs Angela , Al Azzawi Hussein M. , Gibson Benjamin C. , Sanguinetti Joseph L. , Ketz Nicholas A. , Pilly Praveen K. , Clark Vincent P.
Published: November 2018

Background: Poor sleep quality is a common complaint, affecting over one third of people in the United States. While sleep quality is thought to be related to slow-wave sleep (SWS), there has been little investigation to address whether modulating slow-wave oscillations (SWOs) that characterize SWS could impact sleep quality. Here we examined whether closed-loop transcranial alternating current stimulation (CL-tACS) applied during sleep impacts sleep quality and efficiency. Methods: CL-tACS was used in 21 participants delivered at the same frequency and in phase with endogenous SWOs during sleep. Sleep quality was assessed in the morning following either verum or sham control stimulation during sleep, with order counterbalanced within participants. Results: Higher sleep quality and efficiency were found after verum stimulation nights compared to control. The largest effects on sleep quality were found immediately following an adaptation night in the laboratory for which sleep quality was reduced. Conclusions: Applying CL-tACS at the same frequency and phase as endogenous SWOs may offer a novel method to improve subjective sleep quality after a night with poor quality sleep. CL-tACS might be helpful for increasing sleep quality and efficiency in otherwise healthy people, and in patients with clinical disorders that involve sleep deficits.
Parental Education Attainment and Educational Upward Mobility; Role of Race and Gender
Authors: Assari Shervin
Published: November 2018

Background. The Minorities’ Diminished Return theory suggests that education attainment and other socioeconomic resources have smaller effects on the health and well-being of African Americans and other racial and ethnic minorities compared to Whites. Racial and ethnic differences in the processes involved with educational upward mobility may contribute to the diminished returns of education attainment for African Americans compared to Whites. Aim: This study compared African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites for the effect of parental education attainment on educational upward mobility and explored gender differences in these effects. Methods. The National Survey of American Life (NSAL 2003) is a nationally representative survey of American adults. Participants included 891 non-Hispanic White and 3570 African American adults. Gender, race/ethnicity, age, highest parental education attainment, and respondents’ educational attainment were measured. Data were analyzed using linear regression models. Results. Overall, higher parental education attainment was associated with higher educational upward mobility (b = 0.34, p < 0.001), however, this boosting effect was significantly smaller for African Americans compared to Whites (b = −0.13, p = 0.003). Our further analysis showed that race by parental education attainment can be found for females (b = −0.14, p = 0.013) but not males (p > 0.05). Conclusion. African American females are at a disadvantage compared to White females regarding the effect of parental education attainment on their educational upward mobility, a phenomenon which could not be observed when comparing African American and White males. These results advocate for taking intersectionality frameworks to study the effects of race, gender, and class in the US.
Loss of Myeloid-Specific TGF-β Signaling Decreases CTHRC1 to Downregulate bFGF and the Development of H1993-Induced Osteolytic Bone Lesions
Authors: Ganguly Sourik S. , Daft Paul G. , Cao Jingchen , Meng Xiangqi , Zhong Zhendong A. , Vander Ark Alexandra , Meadows Austin , Madaj Zach , Williams Bart , Li Xiaohong
Published: November 2018

The role of myeloid cell-specific TGF-β signaling in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)-induced osteolytic bone lesion development is unknown. We used a genetically engineered mouse model, Tgfbr2LysMCre knockout (KO), which has a loss of TGF-β signaling specifically in myeloid lineage cells, and we found that the area of H1993 cell-induced osteolytic bone lesions was decreased in Tgfbr2LysMCre KO mice, relative to the area in control littermates. The bone lesion areas were correlated with tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and osteoclastogenesis in the microenvironment. The smaller bone lesion area was partially rescued by bFGF, which was expressed by osteoblasts. Interestingly, bFGF was able to rescue the osteoclastogenesis, but not the tumor cell proliferation or angiogenesis. We then focused on identifying osteoclast factors that regulate bFGF expression in osteoblasts. We found that the expression and secretion of CTHRC1 was downregulated in osteoclasts from Tgfbr2LysMCre KO mice; CTHRC1 was able to promote bFGF expression in osteoblasts, possibly through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Functionally, bFGF stimulated osteoclastogenesis and inhibited osteoblastogenesis, but had no effect on H1993 cell proliferation. On the other hand, CTHRC1 promoted osteoblastogenesis and H1993 cell proliferation. Together, our data show that myeloid-specific TGF-β signaling promoted osteolytic bone lesion development and bFGF expression in osteoblasts; that osteoclast-secreted CTHRC1 stimulated bFGF expression in osteoblasts in a paracrine manner; and that CTHRC1 and bFGF had different cell-specific functions that contributed to bone lesion development.
ISG15 Promotes ERK1 ISGylation, CD8+ T Cell Activation and Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Progression
Authors: Yeung Tsz-Lun , Tsai Ching Chou , Leung Cecilia S. , Au Yeung Chi-Lam , Thompson Melissa S. , Lu Karen H. , Freedman Ralph S. , Birrer Michael J. , Wong Kwong-Kwok , Mok Samuel C.
Published: November 2018

Increased number of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ lymphocytes is associated with improved survival in patients with advanced stage high grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) but the underlying molecular mechanism has not been thoroughly explored. Using transcriptome profiling of microdissected HGSOC tissue with high and low CD8+ lymphocyte count and subsequent validation studies, we demonstrated that significantly increased ISG15 (Interferon-stimulated gene 15) expression in HGSOC was associated with high CD8+ lymphocyte count and with the improvement in median overall survival in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Further functional studies showed that endogenous and exogenous ISG15 suppressed ovarian cancer progression through ISGylation of ERK in HGSOC, and activation of NK cells and CD8+ T lymphocytes. These data suggest that the development of treatment strategies based on up-regulating ISG15 in ovarian cancer cells or increased circulating ISG15 in ovarian cancer patients is warranted.
Synthesis of Small-Sized SAPO-34 Crystals with Varying Template Combinations for the Conversion of Methanol to Olefins
Authors: Zhang Yanjun , Ren Zhibo , Wang Yinuo , Deng Yinjie , Li Jianwei
Published: November 2018

SAPO-34 molecular sieves were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions using different combinations of tetraethyl ammonium hydroxide (TEAOH)/morpholine (Mor)/triethylamine (TEA) as templates, with different silicon:aluminum ratios. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized SAPO-34 were characterized using XRD, SEM, N2 adsorption–desorption, XRF, TG, NH3-TPD, FT-IR, and 29Si MAS NMR analyses. According to the SEM and the N2 adsorption–desorption of the catalysts produced by the ternary template exhibited a larger surface area and a smaller crystal size than those produced by the single or binary templates. The FT-IR analysis indicated the increased acidity of the catalyst prepared by the ternary template. A high activity and selectivity to olefins (C2= + C3=) and an optimal silicon to aluminum ratio of 0.4 were obtained from the catalyst synthesized with the ternary template. At the reaction temperature of 450 °C, the methanol conversion approached 100% and the ethylene–propylene selectivity and the lifetime of the catalyst reached maximums of 89.15% and 690 min, respectively.
Structural and Electrical Characterization of Sputter-Deposited Gd0.1Ce0.9O2−δ Thin Buffer Layers at the Y-Stabilized Zirconia Electrolyte Interface for IT-Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Coppola Nunzia , Polverino Pierpaolo , Carapella Giovanni , Sacco Chiara , Galdi Alice , Ubaldini Alberto , Vaiano Vincenzo , Montinaro Dario , Maritato Luigi , Pianese Cesare
Published: November 2018

The use of a doped Ceria buffer layer and Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) techniques for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) fabrication can limit the former, the formation of electrical insulating lanthanum, and strontium zirconates at the cathode/electrolyte interface, whereas the latter allows a better control of the materials interfaces. These effects allow for operation at intermediate temperature ranges. In this work, we study the structural and electrical properties of Gadolinium Doped Ceria (GDC) barrier layer deposited via the room temperature RF Sputtering technique on anode supported electrolytes and then annealed at high temperature. The crystal structure and the surface morphology of the GDC barrier layers have been analyzed and optimized varying the temperature ramp of the post-growth annealing procedure. The electrical behavior of the obtained samples has been investigated by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy and compared to that of standard SOFC with screen-printed GDC barrier layers, the former showing a maximum high frequency and low frequency resistances reduction of about 50% and 46%, respectively, with respect to the latter at an operating temperature of 650 °C. The results clearly show an important improvement of SOFC performances when using sputter deposited GDC layers, linking the electrical properties to the structural and stoichiometric ones.
Oscillatory Behavior of Pd-Au Catalysts in Toluene Total Oxidation
Authors: Barakat Tarek , Rooke Joanna C. , Chlala Dayan , Cousin Renaud , Lamonier Jean-François , Giraudon Jean-Marc , Casale Sandra , Massiani Pascale , Su Bao-Lian , Siffert Stéphane
Published: November 2018

In this work, the activity of bimetallic Pd-Au doped hierarchically structured titania catalysts has been investigated in the total oxidation of toluene. In earlier works, doping titania with group Vb metal oxides ensured an increased catalytic performance in the elimination of VOC molecules. A synergy between gold and palladium loaded at the surface of titania supports provided better performances in VOC oxidation reactions. Therefore, the main focus in this work was to investigate the durability of the prepared catalysts under long time-on-stream periods. Vanadium-doped catalysts showed a stable activity throughout the whole 110 h test, whereas, surprisingly, niobium-doped catalysts presented a cycle-like activity while nevertheless maintaining a high performance in toluene elimination. Operando Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourrier Transform spectroscopy (DRIFT) experiments revealed that variations in the presence of OH radicals and the presence of carbonaceous compounds adsorbed at the surface of spent catalysts varies with the occurrence of oscillations. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) results show that interactions between the material and the active phase provided extra amounts of mobile oxygen species and participated in easing the reduction of palladium. An enhanced redox reaction scheme is thus obtained and allows the occurrence of the cyclic-like performance of the catalyst.
2D- and 3D-Based Intestinal Stem Cell Cultures for Personalized Medicine
Authors: Liu Yuan , Chen Ye-Guang
Published: November 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers that have high occurrence and death in both males and females. As various factors have been found to contribute to CRC development, personalized therapies are critical for efficient treatment. To achieve this purpose, the establishment of patient-derived tumor models is critical for diagnosis and drug test. The establishment of three-dimensional (3D) organoid cultures and two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures of patient-derived epithelial tissues is a breakthrough for expanding living materials for later use. This review provides an overview of the different types of 2D- and 3D-based intestinal stem cell cultures, their potential benefits, and the drawbacks in personalized medicine in treatment of the intestinal disorders.
Planetary Health and the Future of Human Capacity: The Increasing Impact of Planetary Distress on the Human Brain
Authors: Chen Chong , Nakagawa Shin
Published: November 2018

All awareness, thoughts, emotions, perceptions, memories, actions—everything that encompasses our human capacity and reality—are mediated through the biological interface of our brains. While the source of consciousness remains a fundamental and elusive question, it is also inescapable that threats to biological health can compromise any and all aspects of psychological and neurological functioning, from the first moments of life. The effects of environmental threats to specific aspects of individual brain health are well recognized, yet precious little attention is given to the collective effects of planetary-scale environmental damage, and the erosion of numerous planetary systems, on the biology of the human brain. Although, these are likely to vary widely with individual circumstances, it is also inevitable that the ‘dysbiotic drift’ (increasing life in distress) at the planetary scale is reflected at the personal scale, with a collective shift towards increased biological stress of all kinds. Here, we make the case that ‘planetary distress’ is directly implicated in a collective increase in ‘personal distress’, and that multifaceted biological pressures, as well as psychological pressures, are implicated in the mental health crisis and predisposition to numerous disorders in brain development, functioning and aging. In turn, this has implications for every aspect of health, capacity, and the very essence of human experience for generations to come. Viewed on this scale, we call for a quantum shift in efforts to address the many factors affecting brain health, ranging from air pollution to disappearing greenspace. These all stem from ecological imbalance and point to a unifying need to restore planetary health. Ultimately, the future of human capacity depends on this.
Abrasion Resistance of Superhydrophobic Coatings on Aluminum Using PDMS/SiO2
Authors: Sebastian Divine , Yao Chun-Wei , Lian Ian
Published: November 2018

Superhydrophobic coatings have shown tremendous improvement in the usability of metals such as aluminum. These coatings are capable of adding attractive features such as self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and anti-biofouling to the array of diverse features that aluminum possesses, including lightweight and high ductility. For superhydrophobic surfaces, having considerable abrasion resistance is as important as achieving a high contact angle. In this work, two types of coatings have been prepared, each composed of functionalized silica nanoparticles along with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) dispersed in ethanol, and their superhydrophobicity and abrasion characteristics have been investigated. The same silica nanoparticles are present in each coating, but each has a different proportion of the PDMS base to its curing agent. The surface morphology of the coatings was studied with the aid of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an atomic force microscope (AFM). The surface chemical composition was characterized using an energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX). The prepared coatings were analyzed for their degree of superhydrophobicity, abrasion resistance and adhesion characteristics. In addition, atomic force microscopy was used to understand the adhesion characteristics of the coatings.
Enzyme-Catalysed Conversion of Atranol and Derivatives into Dimeric Hydrosoluble Materials: Application to the Preparation of a Low-Atranol Oakmoss Absolute
Authors: Bouges Hélène , Monchot André , Antoniotti Sylvain
Published: November 2018

Oakmoss absolute, a solvent extract from Evernia prunastri, is a valuable fragrance ingredient widely used in fine fragrance for almost two centuries. Some minor components of oakmoss absolute, such as atranol and chloroatranol, are attested contact allergens and their presence in fragrance and cosmetic products should be as low as possible. In this context, we have developed an enzyme-based protocol upon which these undesirable molecules are converted in a hydrosoluble dimeric material, and thus easily separated from the absolute by liquid–liquid extraction. Analytical and sensory analyses were performed to confirm the specificity of the process, the absence of alteration of the olfactory quality of the absolute, and the final titles of atranol and chloroatranol, which eventually were observed in the ppm range. This highly sustainable process is a viable alternative to conventional time-, energy-, and manpower-consuming techniques to produce very low-atranol oakmoss absolute.
Can Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) through a Ureolytic Pathway Be Successfully Applied for Removing Heavy Metals from Wastewaters?
Authors: Torres-Aravena Álvaro Esteban , Duarte-Nass Carla , Azócar Laura , Mella-Herrera Rodrigo , Rivas Mariella , Jeison David
Published: November 2018

Microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) through a ureolytic pathway is a process that promotes calcite precipitation as a result of the urease enzymatic activity of several microorganisms. It has been studied for different technological applications, such as soil bio-consolidation, bio-cementation, CO2 sequestration, among others. Recently, this process has been proposed as a possible process for removing heavy metals from contaminated soils. However, no research has been reported dealing with the MICP process for heavy metal removal from wastewater/waters. This (re)view proposes to consider to such possibility. The main characteristics of MICP are presented and discussed. The precipitation of heavy metals contained in wastewaters/waters via MICP is exanimated based on process characteristics. Moreover, challenges for its successful implementation are discussed, such as the heavy metal tolerance of inoculum, ammonium release as product of urea hydrolysis, and so on. A semi-continuous operation in two steps (cell growth and bio-precipitation) is proposed. Finally, the wastewater from some typical industries releasing heavy metals are examined, discussing the technical barriers and feasibility.
Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of a NiCrFeCoMn High-Entropy Alloy Deformed at High Strain Rates
Authors: Wang Bingfeng , Yao Xianrui , Wang Chu , Zhang Xiaoyong , Huang Xiaoxia
Published: November 2018

The equiatomic NiCrFeCoMn high-entropy alloy prepared by arc melting has a single crystallographic structure. Mechanical properties and microstructure of the NiCrFeCoMn high-entropy alloy deformed at high strain rates (900 s−1 to 4600 s−1) were investigated. The yield strength of the NiCrFeCoMn high-entropy alloy is sensitive to the change of high strain rates. Serration behaviors were also observed on the flow stress curves of the alloy deformed at the strain rates ranging from 900 s−1 to 4600 s−1. The Zerilli–Armstrong constitutive equation can be used to predict the flow stress curves of the NiCrFeCoMn high-entropy alloy. Large amounts of deformation bands led to obvious serration behaviors of the NiCrFeCoMn high-entropy alloy under dynamic loading.
What Does ‘Information’ Mean in Integrated Information Theory?
Authors: Lombardi Olimpia , López Cristian
Published: November 2018

Integrated Information Theory (IIT) intends to provide a principled theoretical approach able to characterize consciousness both quantitatively and qualitatively. By starting off identifying the fundamental properties of experience itself, IIT develops a formal framework that relates those properties to the physical substratum of consciousness. One of the central features of ITT is the role that information plays in the theory. On the one hand, one of the self-evident truths about consciousness is that it is informative. On the other hand, mechanisms and systems of mechanics can contribute to consciousness only if they specify systems’ intrinsic information. In this paper, we will conceptually analyze the notion of information underlying ITT. Following previous work on the matter, we will particularly argue that information within ITT should be understood in the light of a causal-manipulabilist view of information (López and Lombardi 2018), conforming to which information is an entity that must be involved in causal links in order to be precisely defined. Those causal links are brought to light by means of interventionist procedures following Woodward’s and Pearl’s version of the manipulability theories of causation.
Structural Optimization Method for the Transition Section in Composite Bucket Foundations of Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Zhang Puyang , Xu Yunlong , Le Conghuan , Ding Hongyan , Guo Yaohua
Published: November 2018

A two-step structural optimization method was proposed to select the transition section of a composite bucket foundation (CBF). In the first step, based on the variable density method, a solid isotropic microstructures with penalization (SIMP) interpolation model was established under specific load conditions and boundary conditions. The solution of force transmission path and the topology of the transition section in six forms (e.g., linear, arc-shaped, linear thin-walled, and arc-shaped thin-walled) were optimized. Afterwards, finite element software ABAQUS was used to verify this model. Results show that the utilization rate of the arc-shaped thin-walled structure was the largest, and its basic transmission force was more straightforward together with smaller cross-section size at the same height and smaller influence on spoiler flow. In the second step, the detailed optimization of CBF was carried out using mathematical programming. Under the premise of minimum total construction cost, the body shape parameters of each part were set as design variables satisfying the corresponding strength, stiffness, and stability conditions; meanwhile, the minimum total structure weight was set as the objective function. MATLAB was used to solve the sequence quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm and hybrid genetic algorithm, and the optimal body parameters were obtained.
Numerical Study of the Magnetic Field Effect on Ferromagnetic Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in a Square Porous Cavity
Authors: El-Amin Mohamed F. , Khaled Usama , Beroual Abderrahmane
Published: November 2018

A numerical study of ferromagnetic-fluid flow and heat transfer in a square porous cavity under the effect of a magnetic field is presented. The water-magnetic particle suspension is treated as a miscible mixture and, thus, the magnetization, density and viscosity of the ferrofluid are obtained. The governing partial-differential equations were solved numerically using the cell-centered finite-difference method for the spatial discretization, while the multiscale time-splitting implicit method was developed to treat the temporal discretization. The Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy stability condition (CFL < 1) was used to make the scheme adaptive by dividing time steps as needed. Two cases corresponding to Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions were considered. The efficiency of the developed algorithm as well as some physical results such as temperature, concentration, and pressure; and the local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers at the cavity walls are presented and discussed. It was noticed that the particle concentration and local heat/mass transfer rate are related to the magnetic field strength, and both pressure and velocity increase as the strength of the magnetic was increased.
A Systematic Literature Review of Methods for Improved Utilisation of the Non-Energy Benefits of Industrial Energy Efficiency
Authors: Nehler Therese
Published: November 2018

Improvements in industrial energy efficiency demonstrated various additional effects beyond pure energy savings and energy cost savings. Observed on many levels, these additional effects, often denoted as non-energy benefits, constitute a diverse collection, for instance, effects related to firms’ production or improvements in the work environment and the external environment. Previous studies showed the potential of including quantified and monetised non-energy benefits in energy efficiency investments. However, there seems to be a lack of methodological overview, including all the steps from observation to monetisation and inclusion in investments. This study systematically reviews the academic literature on non-energy benefits relating to methods for observation, measuring, quantification, and monetisation of the benefits. The most commonly applied research design was a case study approach, in which data on non-energy benefits were collected by conducting interviews. Furthermore, the primary methods used to enable quantification and monetisation of observed non-energy benefits were based on classifications, indexes in relation to the energy savings, or frameworks. Calculation methods, databased tools, classification frameworks, and ranking were applied to evaluate the benefits’ potential in relation to energy efficiency investments. Based on a synthesis of the review findings, this article contributes a novel scheme for improved utilisation of the non-energy benefits of industrial energy efficiency.
Genetic Variation in Water-Use Efficiency (WUE) and Growth in Mature Longleaf Pine
Authors: Castillo Ana C. , Goldfarb Barry , Johnsen Kurt H. , Roberds James H. , Nelson C. Dana
Published: November 2018

The genetic and physiological quality of seedlings is a critical component for longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) restoration, because planting genetic material that is adapted to environmental stress is required for long-term restoration success. Planting trees that exhibit high water-use efficiency (WUE) is a practice that could maximize this species’ survival and growth in a changing climate. Our study evaluates genetic variation in WUE and growth, as well as WUE-growth relationships, a key step to determine potential for breeding and planting trees with high WUE. We measured carbon isotope discrimination (∆)—a proxy for WUE—in 106 longleaf pine increment cores extracted from trees belonging to nine full-sib families. Tree diameter and total tree height were also measured at ages 7, 17, 30 and 40 years. Each increment core was divided into segments corresponding to ages 7–17, 18–30 and 31–40, representing early, intermediate and mature growth of the trees. We identified significant genetic variation in DBH and WUE among families that merit further exploration for identifying trees that can potentially withstand drought stress. Mean family growth rates were not associated with mean family values for carbon isotope discrimination. Family variation in both diameter growth and WUE but no relationship between family values for these traits, suggests it is possible to improve longleaf pines in both diameter growth and WUE through appropriate breeding.
Megaspore Chromosome Doubling in Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake Induced by Colchicine Treatment to Produce Triploids
Authors: Yang Jun , Wang Jianzhong , Liu Zhao , Xiong Tao , Lan Jun , Han Qiang , Li Yun , Kang Xiangyang
Published: November 2018

Triploids generally provide an advantage in vegetative growth in forest trees. However, the technique of triploid breeding is still an open field in the Eucalyptus tree species. This study aims to explore the colchicine treatment technique for megaspore chromosome doubling to establish triploids in this tree species. Cytological observation on microsporogenesis and megasporogenesis was carried out to guide megaspore chromosome doubling induced by colchicine treatment. Ploidy level in progenies was detected by flow cytometry and somatic chromosome counting. A relationship between microsporogenesis and megasporogenesis was established to guide the colchicine treatment. Seven triploids were obtained in the progenies, and the highest efficiency of triploid production was 6.25% when the flower buds underwent a 0.25% colchicine solution treatment for 6 h using an aspiration method seven days after the first observation of leptotene during microsporogenesis on the floral branch. Cytological analysis showed that the megasporocyte from leptotene to diakinesis may be the optimal period for megaspore chromosome doubling by colchicine treatment. Plant height, ground diameter, leaf area, and the photosynthetic parameter of triploid eucalypt were significantly higher than those of the diploid plant at 6 months old. Hybridization with 2n megaspores induced by colchicine treatment is an effective way for Eucalyptus triploid breeding. These results should accelerate the development of advanced germplasms in this tree species.
Privacy and Security Issues in Online Social Networks
Authors: Ali Shaukat , Islam Naveed , Rauf Azhar , Din Ikram Ud , Guizani Mohsen , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: November 2018

The advent of online social networks (OSN) has transformed a common passive reader into a content contributor. It has allowed users to share information and exchange opinions, and also express themselves in online virtual communities to interact with other users of similar interests. However, OSN have turned the social sphere of users into the commercial sphere. This should create a privacy and security issue for OSN users. OSN service providers collect the private and sensitive data of their customers that can be misused by data collectors, third parties, or by unauthorized users. In this paper, common security and privacy issues are explained along with recommendations to OSN users to protect themselves from these issues whenever they use social media.
Combining Faraday Tomography and Wavelet Analysis
Authors: Sokoloff Dmitry , Beck Rainer , Chupin Anton , Frick Peter , Heald George , Stepanov Rodion
Published: November 2018

We present a concept for using long-wavelength broadband radio continuum observations of spiral galaxies to isolate magnetic structures that were only previously accessible from short-wavelength observations. The approach is based on combining the RM Synthesis technique with the 2D continuous wavelet transform. Wavelet analysis helps to isolate and recognize small-scale structures which are produced by Faraday dispersion. We find that these structures can trace galactic magnetic arms as illustrated by the case of the galaxy NGC 6946 observed at λ = 17 − 22 cm. We support this interpretation through the analysis of a synthetic observation obtained using a realistic model of a galactic magnetic field.
Legume Cytosolic and Plastid Acetyl-Coenzyme—A Carboxylase Genes Differ by Evolutionary Patterns and Selection Pressure Schemes Acting before and after Whole-Genome Duplications
Authors: Szczepaniak Anna , Książkiewicz Michał , Podkowiński Jan , Czyż Katarzyna B. , Figlerowicz Marek , Naganowska Barbara
Published: November 2018

Acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACCase, E.C.6.4.1.2) catalyzes acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylation to malonyl coenzyme A. Plants possess two distinct ACCases differing by cellular compartment and function. Plastid ACCase contributes to de novo fatty acid synthesis, whereas cytosolic enzyme to the synthesis of very long chain fatty acids, phytoalexins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. The narrow leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) represents legumes, a plant family which evolved by whole-genome duplications (WGDs). The study aimed on the contribution of these WGDs to the multiplication of ACCase genes and their further evolutionary patterns. The molecular approach involved bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library screening, fluorescent in situ hybridization, linkage mapping, and BAC sequencing. In silico analysis encompassed sequence annotation, comparative mapping, selection pressure calculation, phylogenetic inference, and gene expression profiling. Among sequenced legumes, the highest number of ACCase genes was identified in lupin and soybean. The most abundant plastid ACCase subunit genes were accB. ACCase genes in legumes evolved by WGDs, evidenced by shared synteny and Bayesian phylogenetic inference. Transcriptional activity of almost all copies was confirmed. Gene duplicates were conserved by strong purifying selection, however, positive selection occurred in Arachis (accB2) and Lupinus (accC) lineages, putatively predating the WGD event(s). Early duplicated accA and accB genes underwent transcriptional sub-functionalization.
Coping with Reactive Oxygen Species to Ensure Genome Stability in Escherichia coli
Authors: Mendoza-Chamizo Belén , Løbner-Olesen Anders , Charbon Godefroid
Published: November 2018

The facultative aerobic bacterium Escherichia coli adjusts its cell cycle to environmental conditions. Because of its lifestyle, the bacterium has to balance the use of oxygen with the potential lethal effects of its poisonous derivatives. Oxidative damages perpetrated by molecules such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anions directly incapacitate metabolic activities relying on enzymes co-factored with iron and flavins. Consequently, growth is inhibited when the bacterium faces substantial reactive oxygen insults coming from environmental or cellular sources. Although hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anions do not oxidize DNA directly, these molecules feed directly or indirectly the generation of the highly reactive hydroxyl radical that damages the bacterial chromosome. Oxidized bases are normally excised and the single strand gap repaired by the base excision repair pathway (BER). This process is especially problematic in E. coli because replication forks do not sense the presence of damages or a stalled fork ahead of them. As consequence, single-strand breaks are turned into double-strand breaks (DSB) through replication. Since E. coli tolerates the presence of DSBs poorly, BER can become toxic during oxidative stress. Here we review the repair strategies that E. coli adopts to preserve genome integrity during oxidative stress and their relation to cell cycle control of DNA replication.
Molecular Processes Connecting DNA Methylation Patterns with DNA Methyltransferases and Histone Modifications in Mammalian Genomes
Authors: Jeltsch Albert , Broche Julian , Bashtrykov Pavel
Published: November 2018

DNA methylation is an essential part of the epigenome chromatin modification network, which also comprises several covalent histone protein post-translational modifications. All these modifications are highly interconnected, because the writers and erasers of one mark, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and ten eleven translocation enzymes (TETs) in the case of DNA methylation, are directly or indirectly targeted and regulated by other marks. Here, we have collected information about the genomic distribution and variability of DNA methylation in human and mouse DNA in different genomic elements. After summarizing the impact of DNA methylation on genome evolution including CpG depletion, we describe the connection of DNA methylation with several important histone post-translational modifications, including methylation of H3K4, H3K9, H3K27, and H3K36, but also with nucleosome remodeling. Moreover, we present the mechanistic features of mammalian DNA methyltransferases and their associated factors that mediate the crosstalk between DNA methylation and chromatin modifications. Finally, we describe recent advances regarding the methylation of non-CpG sites, methylation of adenine residues in human cells and methylation of mitochondrial DNA. At several places, we highlight controversial findings or open questions demanding future experimental work.
Matrophobia and Uncanny Kinship: Eva Hoffman’s The Secret
Authors: Kella Elizabeth
Published: November 2018

Eva Hoffman, known primarily for her autobiography of exile, Lost in Translation: A Life in a New Language (1989), is also the author of a work of Gothic science fiction, set in the future. The Secret: A Fable for our Time (2001) is narrated by a human clone, whose discovery that she is the “monstrous” cloned offspring of a single mother emerges with growing discomfort at the uncanny similarities and tight bonds between her and her mother. This article places Hoffman’s use of the uncanny in relation to her understanding of Holocaust history and the condition of the postmemory generation. Relying on Freud’s definition of the uncanny as being “both very alien and deeply familiar,” she insists that “the second generation has grown up with the uncanny.” In The Secret, growing up with the uncanny leads to matrophobia, a strong dread of becoming one’s mother. This article draws on theoretical work by Adrienne Rich and Deborah D. Rogers to argue that the novel brings to “the matrophobic Gothic” specific insights into the uncanniness of second-generation experiences of kinship, particularly kinship between survivor mothers and their daughters.
Large-Scale Spatial Modeling of Crop Coefficient and Biomass Production in Agroecosystems in Southeast Brazil
Authors: De Oliveira Ferreira Silva César , Lilla Manzione Rodrigo , Albuquerque Filho José Luiz
Published: November 2018

Sentinel-2 images at 10-m resolution were used for modeling crop coefficients and biomass production with the application of the so-called SAFER (Simple Algorithm for Evapotranspiration Retrieving) and Monteith model for biomass production in an area nearby the city of Águas de Santa Bárbara, in the central-western part of São Paulo State, Brazil, which presents a vast agricultural landscape mosaic, to analyze the effects of the end of the recent ENSO’s (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) most active period (2016/2017) and its posteriori effects on vegetation (until early 2018). Surface albedo, temperature, net radiation, and NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) from the main land uses were extracted to process microclimatic comparisons. Crop coefficient (dimensionless) and biomass production (kg·ha−1·day−1) ranges for the period studied were 0.92–1.35 and 22–104 kg·ha−1·day−1 (in the area occupied by sugarcane crop), 0.56–0.94 and 15–73 kg·ha−1·day−1 (pasture), 1.17–1.56 and 25–210 kg·ha−1·day−1 (silviculture), and 1.05–1.36 and 30–134 kg·ha−1·day−1 (forest). According to the spatial and temporal consistencies, and after comparison with previous point and large-scale studies with similar climatic and thermal conditions, the SAFER and Monteith modelsshowed the ability to quantify and differentiate the large-scale crop coefficients and biomass production of different land uses in the southeast Brazil region. The SAFER algorithm with Sentinel-2 images obtained crop coefficients that indicated plant growth stages and local thermohydrological conditions at a 10-m resolution. The results are important for land use, crop yield and reforestation planning, and for water management plans for actual and future water demand scenarios, and this methodology is useful for monitoring rural and water parameters, and for precision agriculture applications.
Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects of Fungal Immunomodulatory Protein Involving Microglial Inhibition
Authors: Chen Wen-Ying , Chang Cheng-Yi , Li Jian-Ri , Wang Jiaan-Der , Wu Chih-Cheng , Kuan Yu-Hsiang , Liao Su-Lan , Wang Wen-Yi , Chen Chun-Jung
Published: November 2018

Microglia polarization of classical activation state is crucial to the induction of neuroinflammation, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous neurodegenerative diseases. Fungal immunomodulatory proteins are emerging health-promoting natural substances with multiple pharmacological activities, including immunomodulation. Herein, we investigated the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential of fungal immunomodulatory protein extracted from Ganoderma microsporum (GMI) in an in vitro rodent model of primary cultures. Using primary neuron/glia cultures consisting of neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, a GMI showed an alleviating effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-induced inflammatory mediator production and neuronal cell death. The events of neuroprotection caused by GMI were accompanied by the suppression of Nitric Oxide (NO), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, along with the inhibition of microglia activation. Mechanistic studies showed that the suppression of microglia pro-inflammatory polarization by GMI was accompanied by the resolution of oxidative stress, the preservation of protein tyrosine phosphatase and serine/threonine phosphatase activity, and the reduction of NF-κB, AP-1, cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CREB), along with signal transducers and activators of transcription (Stat1) transcriptional activities and associated upstream activators. These findings suggest that GMI may have considerable potential towards the treatment of neuroinflammation-mediated neurodegenerative diseases.
A Cysteine-Reactive Small Photo-Crosslinker Possessing Caged-Fluorescence Properties: Binding-Site Determination of a Combinatorially-Selected Peptide by Fluorescence Imaging/Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yatabe Kazuki , Hisada Masaru , Tabuchi Yudai , Taki Masumi
Published: November 2018

To determine the binding-site of a combinatorially-selected peptide possessing a fluoroprobe, a novel cysteine reactive small photo-crosslinker that can be excited by a conventional long-wavelength ultraviolet handlamp (365 nm) was synthesized via Suzuki coupling with three steps. The crosslinker is rationally designed, not only as a bioisostere of the fluoroprobe, but as a caged-fluorophore, and the photo-crosslinked target protein became fluorescent with a large Stokes-shift. By introducing the crosslinker to a designated sulfhydryl (SH) group of a combinatorially-selected peptide, the protein-binding site of the targeted peptide was deduced by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE)/fluorescence imaging followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS/MS) analysis.
Biotherapeutics: Challenges and Opportunities for Predictive Toxicology of Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Johnson Dale E.
Published: November 2018

Biotherapeutics are a rapidly growing portion of the total pharmaceutical market accounting for almost one-half of recent new drug approvals. A major portion of these approvals each year are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). During development, non-clinical pharmacology and toxicology testing of mAbs differs from that done with chemical entities since these biotherapeutics are derived from a biological source and therefore the animal models must share the same epitopes (targets) as humans to elicit a pharmacological response. Mechanisms of toxicity of mAbs are both pharmacological and non-pharmacological in nature; however, standard in silico predictive toxicological methods used in research and development of chemical entities currently do not apply to these biotherapeutics. Challenges and potential opportunities exist for new methodologies to provide a more predictive program to assess and monitor potential adverse drug reactions of mAbs for specific patients before and during clinical trials and after market approval.