bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional Alterations by Ischaemic Postconditioning in a Pig Infarction Model: Impact on Microvascular Protection
Authors: Lukovic Dominika , Gugerell Alfred , Zlabinger Katrin , Winkler Johannes , Pavo Noemi , Baranyai Tamás , Giricz Zoltán , Varga Zoltán V. , Riesenhuber Martin , Spannbauer Andreas , Traxler Denise , Jakab András , Garamvölgyi Rita , Petnehazy Örs , Pils Dietmar , Tóth Levente , Schulz Rainer , Ferdinandy Péter , Gyöngyösi Mariann
Published: January 2019

Although the application of cardioprotective ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) stimuli after myocardial infarction (MI) is a promising concept for salvaging the myocardium, translation to a clinical scenario has not fulfilled expectations. We have previously shown that in pigs, ischaemic postconditioning (IPostC) reduces myocardial oedema and microvascular obstruction (MVO), without influencing myocardial infarct size. In the present study, we analyzed the mechanisms underlying the IPostC-induced microvascular protection by transcriptomic analysis, followed by pathway analysis. Closed-chest reperfused MI was induced by 90 min percutaneous balloon occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, followed by balloon deflation in anaesthetised pigs. Animals were randomised to IPostC (n = 8), MI (non-conditioned, n = 8), or Control (sham-operated, n = 4) groups. After three hours or three days follow-up, myocardial tissue samples were harvested and subjected to RNA-seq analysis. Although the transcriptome analysis revealed similar expression between IPostC and MI in transcripts involved in cardioprotective pathways, we identified gene expression changes responding to IPostC at the three days follow-up. Focal adhesion signaling, downregulated genes participating in cardiomyopathy and activation of blood cells may have critical consequences for microvascular protection. Specific analyses of the gene subsets enriched in the endothelium of the infarcted area, revealed strong deregulation of transcriptional functional clusters, DNA processing, replication and repair, cell proliferation, and focal adhesion, suggesting sustentative function in the endothelial cell layer protection and integrity. The spatial and time-dependent transcriptome analysis of porcine myocardium supports a protective effect of IPostC on coronary microvasculature post-MI.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Mediated by recPrPC Involved in the Neuronal Differentiation Process of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Martellucci Stefano , Santacroce Costantino , Santilli Francesca , Piccoli Luca , Delle Monache Simona , Angelucci Adriano , Misasi Roberta , Sorice Maurizio , Mattei Vincenzo
Published: January 2019

Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells (hDPSCs) represent a type of adult mesenchymal stem cells that have the ability to differentiate in vitro in several lineages such as odontoblasts, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes and neurons. In the current work, we used hDPSCs as the experimental model to study the role of recombinant prion protein 23–231 (recPrPC) in the neuronal differentiation process, and in the signal pathway activation of ERK 1/2 and Akt. We demonstrated that recPrPC was able to activate an intracellular signal pathway mediated by extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK 1/2) and protein kinase B (Akt). Moreover, in order to understand whether endogenous prion protein (PrPC) was necessary to mediate the signaling induced by recPrPC, we silenced PrPC, demonstrating that the presence of endogenous PrPC was essential for ERK 1/2 and Akt phosphorylation. Since endogenous PrPC is a well-known lipid rafts component, we evaluated the role of these structures in the signal pathway induced by recPrPC. Our results suggest that lipid rafts integrity play a key role in recPrPC activity. In fact, lipid rafts inhibitors, such as fumonisin B1 and MβCD, significantly prevented ERK 1/2 and Akt phosphorylation induced by recPrPC. In addition, we investigated the capacity of recPrPC to induce hDPSCs neuronal differentiation process after long-term stimulation through the evaluation of typical neuronal markers expression such as B3-Tubulin, neurofilament-H (NFH) and growth associated protein 43 (GAP43). Accordingly, when we silenced endogenous PrPC, we observed the inhibition of neuronal differentiation induced by recPrPC. The combined data suggest that recPrPC plays a key role in the neuronal differentiation process and in the activation of specific intracellular signal pathways in hDPSCs.
Intermittent Use of Portable NIV Increases Exercise Tolerance in COPD: A Randomised, Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Vogiatzis Ioannis , Chynkiamis Nikolaos , Armstrong Matthew , Lane Nicholas D. , Hartley Tom , Gray William K. , Bourke Stephen C.
Published: January 2019

During exercise, non-invasive ventilation (NIV) prolongs endurance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but routine use is impractical. The VitaBreath device provides portable NIV (pNIV); however, it can only be used during recovery. We assessed the effect of pNIV compared to pursed lip breathing (PLB) on exercise tolerance. Twenty-four COPD patients were randomised to a high-intensity (HI: 2-min at 80% peak work rate (WRpeak) alternated with 2-min recovery; n = 13), or a moderate-intensity (MOD: 6-min at 60% WRpeak alternated with 2-min recovery; n = 11) protocol, and within these groups two tests were performed using pNIV and PLB during recovery in balanced order. Upon completion, patients were provided with pNIV; use over 12 weeks was assessed. Compared to PLB, pNIV increased exercise tolerance (HI: by 5.2 ± 6.0 min; MOD: by 5.8 ± 6.7 min) (p < 0.05). With pNIV, mean inspiratory capacity increased and breathlessness decreased by clinically meaningful margins during recovery compared to the end of exercise (HI: by 140 ± 110 mL and 1.2 ± 1.7; MOD: by 170 ± 80 mL and 1.0 ± 0.7). At 12 weeks, patients reported that pNIV reduced anxiety (median: 7.5/10 versus 4/10, p = 0.001) and recovery time from breathlessness (17/24 patients; p = 0.002); 23/24 used the device at least weekly. pNIV increased exercise tolerance by reducing dynamic hyperinflation and breathlessness in COPD patients.
Crosstalk of Intercellular Signaling Pathways in the Generation of Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons In Vivo and from Stem Cells
Authors: Brodski Claude , Blaess Sandra , Partanen Juha , Prakash Nilima
Published: January 2019

Dopamine-synthesizing neurons located in the mammalian ventral midbrain are at the center stage of biomedical research due to their involvement in severe human neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, most prominently Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The induction of midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons depends on two important signaling centers of the mammalian embryo: the ventral midline or floor plate (FP) of the neural tube, and the isthmic organizer (IsO) at the mid-/hindbrain boundary (MHB). Cells located within and close to the FP secrete sonic hedgehog (SHH), and members of the wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT1/5A), as well as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family. The IsO cells secrete WNT1 and the fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8). Accordingly, the FGF8, SHH, WNT, and BMP signaling pathways play crucial roles during the development of the mDA neurons in the mammalian embryo. Moreover, these morphogens are essential for the generation of stem cell-derived mDA neurons, which are critical for the modeling, drug screening, and cell replacement therapy of PD. This review summarizes our current knowledge about the functions and crosstalk of these signaling pathways in mammalian mDA neuron development in vivo and their applications in stem cell-based paradigms for the efficient derivation of these neurons in vitro.
Re-Examining Genetic Screening and Oral Contraceptives: A Patient-Centered Review
Authors: Hiedemann Bridget , Vernon Erin , Bowie Bonnie H.
Published: January 2019

The World Health Organization classifies combined hormonal contraception as an unacceptable health risk in the presence of a known thrombogenic mutation but advises against routine thrombophilia screening before initiating combined oral contraceptives (COCs) on the grounds of high screening costs and low prevalence. From the perspective of patient-centered care, we examine cost, prevalence, and other published arguments for and against thrombophilia screening before initiating COCs. Our patient-centered review draws on relevant empirical evidence concerning the advantages and disadvantages of thrombophilia screening, while placing the discussion in the broader context of evolving attitudes toward genetic testing and a shifting policy landscape that provides many women direct access to COCs and/or thrombophilia screening. Given variation in prior probabilities of thrombophilia, expected exposure to other risk factors for venous thromboembolism, attitudes towards risk, expected reactions to a positive test result, ability to pay, and concerns about genetic discrimination, we conclude that the current one-size-fits-most approach is not consistent with patient-centered care. Instead, we advocate for greater patient and provider education concerning the implications of thrombophilia screening. Moreover, we recommend offering patients optional thrombophilia screening before initiating COCs.
Expectations for Statistical Arbitrage in Energy Futures Markets
Authors: Nakajima Tadahiro
Published: January 2019

Energy futures have become important as alternative investment assets to minimize the volatility of portfolio return, owing to their low links with traditional financial markets. In order to make energy futures markets grow further, it is necessary to expand expectations of returns from trading in energy futures markets. Therefore, this study examines whether profits can be earned by statistical arbitrage between wholesale electricity futures and natural gas futures listed on the New York Mercantile Exchange. On the assumption that power prices and natural gas prices have a cointegration relationship, as tested and supported by previous studies, the short-term deviation from the long-term equilibrium is regarded as an arbitrage opportunity. The results of the spark-spread trading simulations using historical data from 2 January 2014 to 29 December 2017 show about 30% yield at maximum. This study shows the possibility of generating earnings in energy futures market.
Simple Synthesis of K4Nb6O17/C Nanosheets for High-Power Lithium-Ion Batteries with Good Stability
Authors: Wang Xiangwei , Zhai Yunyun , Kuang Chunxia , Liu Haiqing , Li Lei
Published: January 2019

In this work, a series of two-dimensional (2D) large-size nanosheets were prepared through one-step exfoliation of the huge K4Nb6O17 crystals. The K4Nb6O17 nanosheets with the thickness of about 2 nm was used as the templates of dopamine polymerization and was then carbonized to form C-doped K4Nb6O17 nanosheets. More importantly, the C-doped K4Nb6O17 nanosheets exhibited excellent electrochemical performance with high specific capacity (381 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, 0.5–3.0 V vs. Li/Li+) and stable cyclability at high current density (remarkably, preserved a capacity of discharge approximately 90 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 1000 cycles). The good electrochemical performances of the C-doped K4Nb6O17 nanosheets can be attributed to the outstanding 2D structure and large specific surface, which afforded the short transport route for ion and electron. These noteworthy results demonstrated that the new 2D nanomaterials might be potential candidates for the high-performance, environmentally friendly, and low-cost electrochemical energy storage equipment.
Numerical Investigation of the Fracture Properties of Pre-Cracked Monocrystalline/Polycrystalline Graphene Sheets
Authors: Li Xinliang , Guo Jiangang
Published: January 2019

The fracture properties of pre-cracked monocrystalline/polycrystalline graphene were investigated via a finite element method based on molecular structure mechanics, and the mode I critical stress intensity factor (SIF) was calculated by the Griffith criterion in classical fracture mechanics. For monocrystalline graphene, the size effects of mode I fracture toughness and the influence of crack width on the mode I fracture toughness were investigated. Moreover, it was found that the ratio of crack length to graphene width has a significant influence on the mode I fracture toughness. For polycrystalline graphene, the strain energy per unit area at different positions was calculated, and the initial fracture site (near grain boundary) was deduced from the variation tendency of the strain energy per unit area. In addition, the effects of misorientation angle of the grain boundary (GB) and the distance between the crack tip and GB on mode I fracture toughness were also analyzed. It was found that the mode I fracture toughness increases with increasing misorientation angle. As the distance between the crack tip and GB increases, the mode I fracture toughness first decreases and then tends to stabilize.
Crystallisation Phenomena of In2O3:H Films
Authors: Muydinov Ruslan , Steigert Alexander , Wollgarten Markus , Michałowski Paweł Piotr , Bloeck Ulrike , Pflug Andreas , Erfurt Darja , Klenk Reiner , Körner Stefan , Lauermann Iver , Szyszka Bernd
Published: January 2019

The crystallisation of sputter-deposited, amorphous In2O3:H films was investigated. The influence of deposition and crystallisation parameters onto crystallinity and electron hall mobility was explored. Significant precipitation of metallic indium was discovered in the crystallised films by electron energy loss spectroscopy. Melting of metallic indium at ~160 °C was suggested to promote primary crystallisation of the amorphous In2O3:H films. The presence of hydroxyl was ascribed to be responsible for the recrystallization and grain growth accompanying the inter-grain In-O-In bounding. Metallic indium was suggested to provide an excess of free electrons in as-deposited In2O3 and In2O3:H films. According to the ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, the work function of In2O3:H increased during crystallisation from 4 eV to 4.4 eV, which corresponds to the oxidation process. Furthermore, transparency simultaneously increased in the infraredspectral region. Water was queried to oxidise metallic indium in UHV at higher temperature as compared to oxygen in ambient air. Secondary ion mass-spectroscopy results revealed that the former process takes place mostly within the top ~50 nm. The optical band gap of In2O3:H increased by about 0.2 eV during annealing, indicating a doping effect. This was considered as a likely intra-grain phenomenon caused by both (In0)O•• and (OH−)O• point defects. The inconsistencies in understanding of In2O3:H crystallisation, which existed in the literature so far, were considered and explained by the multiplicity and disequilibrium of the processes running simultaneously.
Optimum Bloating-Activation Zone of Artificial Lightweight Aggregate by Dynamic Parameters
Authors: Wie Young Min , Lee Ki Gang
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study is to compare the bloating mechanism of artificial lightweight aggregate under sintering and rapid sintering conditions to identify the factors behind the bloating of the lightweight aggregate under these sintering conditions, and to find suitable temperature ramping conditions. The aggregate had an average particle size of 10 mm as formed using acid clay, and it was fired by a rapid sintering method and a normal sintering method. The bulk density and water absorption ratio of the specimen were measured, and the cross section was observed. No black core was observed under the rapid sintering condition, and it was lightened at an inflection point of 1150 °C. A reduction in the bulk density was observed in a shorter period of time when the input temperature was high under the normal sintering conditions. Regardless of the input temperature, the bulk density change was divided into three sections and a bloating-activation zone was observed in which the density abruptly decreased.
Propagating, Evanescent, and Complex Wavenumber Guided Waves in High-Performance Composites
Authors: Giurgiutiu Victor , Haider Mohammad Faisal
Published: January 2019

The study of propagating, evanescent and complex wavenumbers of guided waves (GWs) in high-performance composites using a stable and robust semi-analytical finite element (SAFE) method is presented. To facilitate understanding of the wavenumber trajectories, an incremental material change study is performed moving gradually from isotropic aluminum alloy to carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The SAFE results for an isotropic aluminum alloy plate are compared with the exact analytical solutions, which shows that N = 20 SAFE elements across the thickness provides <0.5% error in the highest evanescent wavenumber for the given frequency-wavenumber range. The material change study reveals that reducing the transverse and shear moduli moves the wavenumber solution towards one similar to composite material. The comparison of the propagating, evanescent and complex wavenumber trajectories between composites and aluminum alloy show that antisymmetric imaginary Lamb wave modes always exist in composites although they may not exist in isotropic aluminum alloy at some frequencies. The wavenumber trajectories for a unidirectional CFRP plate show that the range of real wavenumber is much smaller than in the isotropic aluminum alloy. For laminated CFRP composite plates (e.g., unidirectional, off-axis, transverse, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic laminates), the quasi Lamb wave and shear horizontal (SH) wave trajectories are also identified and discussed. The imaginary SH wave trajectories in laminated composites are distorted due to the presence of ±45 plies. The convergence study of the SAFE method in various CFRP laminates indicates that sufficient accuracy can always be achieved by increasing the number of SAFE elements. Future work will address the stress-continuity between composite layers.
Material and Structural Modeling Aspects of Brain Tissue Deformation under Dynamic Loads
Authors: Ratajczak Monika , Ptak Mariusz , Chybowski Leszek , Gawdzińska Katarzyna , Będziński Romuald
Published: January 2019

The aim of this work was to assess the numerous approaches to structural and material modeling of brain tissue under dynamic loading conditions. The current technological improvements in material modeling have led to various approaches described in the literature. However, the methods used for the determination of the brain’s characteristics have not always been stated or clearly defined and material data are even more scattered. Thus, the research described in this paper explicitly underlines directions for the development of numerical brain models. An important element of this research is the development of a numerical model of the brain based on medical imaging methods. This approach allowed the authors to assess the changes in the mechanical and geometrical parameters of brain tissue caused by the impact of mechanical loads. The developed model was verified through comparison with experimental studies on post-mortem human subjects described in the literature, as well as through numerical tests. Based on the current research, the authors identified important aspects of the modeling of brain tissue that influence the assessment of the actual biomechanical response of the brain for dynamic analyses.
Investigation of Growth Mechanism of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation Coating on Al-Ti Double-Layer Composite Plate
Authors: Chen Quanzhi , Li Weizhou , Ling Kui , Yang Ruixia
Published: January 2019

The aluminum–titanium (Al-Ti) double-layer composite plate is a promising composite material, but necessary surface protection was required before its application. In this paper, plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) was employed to fabricate a ceramic coating on the surface of a Al-Ti double-layer composite plate. To investigate the coating growth mechanism on the Al-Ti double-layer composite plate, a single-Al plate and a single-Ti plate were introduced for comparison experiments. Results showed that, the composite of Al and Ti accelerated the coating growth rate on the part-Ti portion of the composite plate, and that of the part-Al portion was decreased. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis indicated that the equivalent circuit of the Al-Ti coating was formed by connecting two different circuits in parallel. The reaction behavior revealed that the electric energy during the PEO would leak from the circuit with the weaker blocking effect, and confirmed that the electric energy distribution followed the law of low-resistance distribution. Finally, the mechanism was extended to the PEO treatment on general metal matrix composites to broaden the application theory of the technology.
Electrospun Conductive Nanofiber Yarn for a Wearable Yarn Supercapacitor with High Volumetric Energy Density
Authors: Sun Xianqiang , He Jianxin , Qiang Rong , Nan Nan , You Xiaolu , Zhou Yuman , Shao Weili , Liu Fan , Liu Rangtong
Published: January 2019

One-dimensional, flexible yarn-shaped supercapacitors for woven cloth have the potential for use in different kinds of wearable devices. Nevertheless, the challenge that supercapacitors face is low energy density. In this paper, we present a low-cost and large-scale manufacturing method to construct a supercapacitor yarn with high power and high energy density. To construct the novel and flexible poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate)–polyacrylonitrile (PDEOT: PSS-PAN)/Ni cotton (PNF/NiC) capacitor yarn, an electrospinning technique was initially used to wrap the polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers around the core Ni-coated yarn. The PEDOT: PSS–PAN nanofiber composite electrode was created using in situ deposition and H3PO4/PVA was used as a gel electrolyte. This electrode material has a yarn/nanofiber/PEDOT: PSS nanoparticle hierarchical structure, providing a high specific area and enhanced pseudocapacitance. The electrode demonstrated a high volumetric capacitance of 26.88 F·cm−3 (at 0.08 A·cm−3), an energy density of 9.56 mWh·cm−3, and a power density of 830 mW·cm−3. In addition, the PNF/NiC capacitor yarns are lightweight, highly flexible, resistant to bending fatigue, can be connected in series or parallel, and may be suitable for a variety of wearable electronic products.
Designing and Fabricating Ordered Mesoporous Metal Oxides for CO2 Catalytic Conversion: A Review and Prospect
Authors: Cui Yan , Lian Xinbo , Xu Leilei , Chen Mindong , Yang Bo , Wu Cai-e , Li Wenjing , Huang Bingbo , Hu Xun
Published: January 2019

In the past two decades, great progress has been made in the aspects of fabrication and application of ordered mesoporous metal oxides. Ordered mesoporous metal oxides have attracted more and more attention due to their large surface areas and pore volumes, unblocked pore structure, and good thermal stabilities. Compared with non-porous metal oxides, the most prominent feature is their ability to interact with molecules not only on their outer surface but also on the large internal surfaces of the material, providing more accessible active sites for the reactants. This review carefully describes the characteristics, classification and synthesis of ordered mesoporous metal oxides in detail. Besides, it also summarizes the catalytic application of ordered mesoporous metal oxides in the field of carbon dioxide conversion and resource utilization, which provides prospective viewpoints to reduce the emission of greenhouse gas and the inhibition of global warming. Although the scope of current review is mainly limited to the ordered mesoporous metal oxides and their application in the field of CO2 catalytic conversion via heterogeneous catalysis processes, we believe that it will provide new insights and viewpoints to the further development of heterogeneous catalytic materials.
Variation of Magnetic Memory Signals in Fatigue Crack Initiation and Propagation Behavior
Authors: Zhou Wei , Fan Jianchun , Ni Jinlu , Liu Shujie
Published: January 2019

To monitor fatigue crack initiation and propagation, and to judge the fatigue damage status of ferromagnetic material, fatigue bending tests of four-point single edge notch bend (SENB4) specimens were carried out. Metal magnetic memory signals were measured during the whole fatigue process. The results showed that the fatigue process could be divided into four stages by observing the morphology of the fracture surface. With the increase of fatigue loading cycles, the tangential component of the magnetic field (Hx) and the normal component of the magnetic field (Hy) increased. At the notch Hx presented a “trough” shape and had a maximum value at the midpoint, while Hy at the notch rotated clockwise around the midpoint. Compared with the tangential characteristic parameters, the variation of normal characteristic parameters (i.e., maximum gradient value of Hy (Ky-max) and the variation range of Hy at the notch (∆Hyn), with the fatigue loading cycles are more similar to the variation of fatigue crack length with loading cycles), both Ky-max and ∆Hyn had a good linear relationship with fatigue crack length. Plastic deformation accumulated on both sides of the fatigue crack, and metal magnetic memory (MMM) signals measured from the specimens were able to indicate the location of the fatigue crack and the variation of the fatigue crack length. Furthermore, the distribution of magnetic signals was analyzed according to the theories of stress magnetization and magnetic flux leakage.
Dry Bean Preferences and Attitudes among Midwest Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White Women
Authors: Winham Donna M. , Tisue Megan E. , Palmer Shelly M. , Cichy Karen A. , Shelley Mack C.
Published: January 2019

Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) intakes in the United States (US) lag behind dietary recommendations despite their positive nutrition profile, health benefits for reducing chronic disease risk, and inclusion in nutrition assistance programs. Low-income groups, including Hispanics, have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some cancers. Hispanic dietary quality and bean consumption may decline with increasing acculturation. Intakes at recommended levels could improve health in all vulnerable low-income populations. The study objectives were to describe dry and canned bean preferences, consumption frequency, and attitudes among low-income Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women, and to assess if these characteristics differed by ethnicity and acculturation level among the Latinas. A convenience sample of 158 women, aged 18–65 years, completed a written survey in English or Spanish at two healthcare clinics, one Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children office, and five County Extension nutrition education and outreach programs in Iowa. Less acculturated Latinas consumed beans more often, preferred dry to canned, bought in bulk, valued color and shape in dry bean selection, and held less positive attitudes toward canned beans in contrast to bicultural/more acculturated and non-Hispanic white women. Ethnicity and acculturation level have a role in varying purchase patterns and attitudes regarding dry and canned beans. Culturally-held differences should be considered in nutrition programs and leveraged to increase consumption and improve health.
Loading of Porous Functionalized Calcium Carbonate Microparticles: Distribution Analysis with Focused Ion Beam Electron Microscopy and Mercury Porosimetry
Authors: Farzan Maryam , Roth Roger , Québatte Gabriela , Schoelkopf Joachim , Huwyler Jörg , Puchkov Maxim
Published: January 2019

Accurate analysis of intraparticle distribution of substances within porous drug carriers is important to optimize loading and subsequent processing. Mercury intrusion porosimetry, a common technique used for characterization of porous materials, assumes cylindrical pore geometry, which may lead to misinterpretation. Therefore, imaging techniques such as focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) help to better interpret these results. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between mercury intrusion and scanning electron microscopy and to identify the limitations of each method. Porous microparticles, functionalized calcium carbonate, were loaded with bovine serum albumin and dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) by solvent evaporation and results of the pore size distribution obtained by both methods were compared. The internal structure of the novel pharmaceutical excipient, functionalized calcium carbonate, was revealed for the first time. Our results demonstrated that image analysis provides a closer representation of the material distribution since it was possible to discriminate between blocked and filled pores. The physical nature of the loaded substances is critical for the deposition within the pores of functionalized calcium carbonate. We conclude, that a combination of mercury intrusion porosimetry and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy allows for a reliable analysis of sub-micron porous structures of particulate drug carriers.
Stable, Monodisperse, and Highly Cell-Permeating Nanocochleates from Natural Soy Lecithin Liposomes
Authors: Asprea Martina , Tatini Francesca , Piazzini Vieri , Rossi Francesca , Bergonzi Maria Camilla , Bilia Anna Rita
Published: January 2019

(1) Background: Andrographolide (AN), the main diterpenoid constituent of Andrographis paniculata, has a wide spectrum of biological activities. The aim of this study was the development of nanocochleates (NCs) loaded with AN and based on phosphatidylserine (PS) or phosphatidylcholine (PC), cholesterol and calcium ions in order to overcome AN low water solubility, its instability under alkaline conditions and its rapid metabolism in the intestine. (2) Methods: The AN-loaded NCs (AN–NCs) were physically and chemically characterised. The in vitro gastrointestinal stability and biocompatibility of AN–NCs in J77A.1 macrophage and 3T3 fibroblasts cell lines were also investigated. Finally, the uptake of nanocarriers in macrophage cells was studied. (3) Results: AN–NCs obtained from PC nanoliposomes were suitable nanocarriers in terms of size and homogeneity. They had an extraordinary stability after lyophilisation without the use of lyoprotectants and after storage at room temperature. The encapsulation efficiency was 71%, while approximately 95% of AN was released in PBS after 24 h, with kinetics according to the Hixson–Crowell model. The in vitro gastrointestinal stability and safety of NCs, both in macrophages and 3T3 fibroblasts, were also assessed. Additionally, NCs had extraordinary uptake properties in macrophages. (4) Conclusions: NCs developed in this study could be suitable for both AN oral and parental administration, amplifying its therapeutic value.
Lateral Transport of Organic and Inorganic Solutes
Authors: Aubry Emilie , Dinant Sylvie , Vilaine Françoise , Bellini Catherine , Le Hir Rozenn
Published: January 2019

Organic (e.g., sugars and amino acids) and inorganic (e.g., K+, Na+, PO42−, and SO42−) solutes are transported long-distance throughout plants. Lateral movement of these compounds between the xylem and the phloem, and vice versa, has also been reported in several plant species since the 1930s, and is believed to be important in the overall resource allocation. Studies of Arabidopsis thaliana have provided us with a better knowledge of the anatomical framework in which the lateral transport takes place, and have highlighted the role of specialized vascular and perivascular cells as an interface for solute exchanges. Important breakthroughs have also been made, mainly in Arabidopsis, in identifying some of the proteins involved in the cell-to-cell translocation of solutes, most notably a range of plasma membrane transporters that act in different cell types. Finally, in the future, state-of-art imaging techniques should help to better characterize the lateral transport of these compounds on a cellular level. This review brings the lateral transport of sugars and inorganic solutes back into focus and highlights its importance in terms of our overall understanding of plant resource allocation.
Incorporation of Tannic Acid in Food-Grade Guar Gum Fibrous Mats by Electrospinning Technique
Authors: Yang Weiqiao , Zhang Min , Li Xihong , Jiang Jianan , Sousa Ana M.M. , Zhao Qiang , Pontious Sherri , Liu LinShu
Published: January 2019

The use of polysaccharides to produce functional micro- or nanoscale fibrous mats has attracted growing interest for their food-grade applications. In this study, the characterization and electro-spinnability of guar gum (GG) solutions loaded with tannic acid (TA) was demonstrated. Food-grade antioxidant materials were successfully produced by electrospinning while incorporating different loads of TA into GG fibers. Bead-free GG-TA fibers could be fabricated from GG solution (2 wt %) with 10 wt % TA. Increasing the amount of TA led to fibers with defects and larger diameter sizes. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction of neat GG and TA loaded GG fibrous mats suggested that inclusion of TA interrupted the hydrogen bonding and that a higher density of the ordered junction zones formed with the increased TA. The high TA incorporation efficiency and retained antioxidant activity of the fibrous mats afford a potential application in active edible film or drug delivery system.
Optimized Clustering Algorithms for Large Wireless Sensor Networks: A Review
Authors: Wohwe Sambo Damien , Yenke Blaise Omer , Förster Anna , Dayang Paul
Published: January 2019

During the past few years, Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have become widely used due to their large amount of applications. The use of WSNs is an imperative necessity for future revolutionary areas like ecological fields or smart cities in which more than hundreds or thousands of sensor nodes are deployed. In those large scale WSNs, hierarchical approaches improve the performance of the network and increase its lifetime. Hierarchy inside a WSN consists in cutting the whole network into sub-networks called clusters which are led by Cluster Heads. In spite of the advantages of the clustering on large WSNs, it remains a non-deterministic polynomial hard problem which is not solved efficiently by traditional clustering. The recent researches conducted on Machine Learning, Computational Intelligence, and WSNs bring out the optimized clustering algorithms for WSNs. These kinds of clustering are based on environmental behaviors and outperform the traditional clustering algorithms. However, due to the diversity of WSN applications, the choice of an appropriate paradigm for a clustering solution remains a problem. In this paper, we conduct a wide review of proposed optimized clustering solutions nowadays. In order to evaluate them, we consider 10 parameters. Based on these parameters, we propose a comparison of these optimized clustering approaches. From the analysis, we observe that centralized clustering solutions based on the Swarm Intelligence paradigm are more adapted for applications with low energy consumption, high data delivery rate, or high scalability than algorithms based on the other presented paradigms. Moreover, when an application does not need a large amount of nodes within a field, the Fuzzy Logic based solution are suitable.
Wireless Fingerprinting Uncertainty Prediction Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Li You , Gao Zhouzheng , He Zhe , Zhuang Yuan , Radi Ahmed , Chen Ruizhi , El-Sheimy Naser
Published: January 2019

Although wireless fingerprinting has been well researched and widely used for indoor localization, its performance is difficult to quantify. Therefore, when wireless fingerprinting solutions are used as location updates in multi-sensor integration, it is challenging to set their weight accurately. To alleviate this issue, this paper focuses on predicting wireless fingerprinting location uncertainty by given received signal strength (RSS) measurements through the use of machine learning (ML). Two ML methods are used, including an artificial neural network (ANN)-based approach and a Gaussian distribution (GD)-based method. The predicted location uncertainty is evaluated and further used to set the measurement noises in the dead-reckoning/wireless fingerprinting integrated localization extended Kalman filter (EKF). Indoor walking test results indicated the possibility of predicting the wireless fingerprinting uncertainty through ANN the effectiveness of setting measurement noises adaptively in the integrated localization EKF.
Secure Smart Cameras by Aggregate-Signcryption with Decryption Fairness for Multi-Receiver IoT Applications
Authors: Ullah Subhan , Marcenaro Lucio , Rinner Bernhard
Published: January 2019

Smart cameras are key sensors in Internet of Things (IoT) applications and often capture highly sensitive information. Therefore, security and privacy protection is a key concern. This paper introduces a lightweight security approach for smart camera IoT applications based on elliptic-curve (EC) signcryption that performs data signing and encryption in a single step. We deploy signcryption to efficiently protect sensitive data onboard the cameras and secure the data transfer from multiple cameras to multiple monitoring devices. Our multi-sender/multi-receiver approach provides integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality of data with decryption fairness for multiple receivers throughout the entire lifetime of the data. It further provides public verifiability and forward secrecy of data. Our certificateless multi-receiver aggregate-signcryption protection has been implemented for a smart camera IoT scenario, and the runtime and communication effort has been compared with single-sender/single-receiver and multi-sender/single-receiver setups.
A Combined Quantitative Evaluation Model for the Capability of Hyperspectral Imagery for Mineral Mapping
Authors: Li Na , Huang Xinchen , Zhao Huijie , Qiu Xianfei , Deng Kewang , Jia Guorui , Li Zhenhong , Fairbairn David , Gong Xuemei
Published: January 2019

To analyze the influence factors of hyperspectral remote sensing data processing, and quantitatively evaluate the application capability of hyperspectral data, a combined evaluation model based on the physical process of imaging and statistical analysis was proposed. The normalized average distance between different classes of ground cover is selected as the evaluation index. The proposed model considers the influence factors of the full radiation transmission process and processing algorithms. First- and second-order statistical characteristics (mean and covariance) were applied to calculate the changes for the imaging process based on the radiation energy transfer. The statistical analysis was combined with the remote sensing process and the application performance, which consists of the imaging system parameters and imaging conditions, by building the imaging system and processing models. The season (solar zenith angle), sensor parameters (ground sampling distance, modulation transfer function, spectral resolution, spectral response function, and signal to noise ratio), and number of features were considered in order to analyze the influence factors of the application capability level. Simulated and real data collected by Hymap in the Dongtianshan area (Xinjiang Province, China), were used to estimate the proposed model’s performance in the application of mineral mapping. The predicted application capability of the proposed model is consistent with the theoretical analysis.
Joint Estimation of DOA and Frequency of Multiple Sources with Orthogonal Coprime Arrays
Authors: Hsu Kai-Chieh , Kiang Jean-Fu
Published: January 2019

A two-stage method is proposed to jointly estimate the direction-of-arrival (DOA) and carrier frequency (CF) of multiple sources, by using two orthogonal coprime arrays (CPAs). The DOAs of CF-known sources are estimated first by applying a spatial smoothing MUSIC algorithm. The contribution of these source signals is then removed from the originally received signal by applying an orthogonal complement projector. Next, a joint-ESPRIT algorithm is applied to estimate the DOAs and CFs of the remaining CF-unknown sources. With two orthogonal CPA(5, 6), the RMSE of DOA and CF of applying the proposed method to 30 sources, 13 of which have unknown CF, is less than 1% at SNR > 5 dB.
Multiple-stage Precursor Ion Separation and High Resolution Mass Spectrometry toward Structural Characterization of 2,3-Diacyltrehalose Family from Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Frankfater Cheryl , Abramovitch Robert B. , Purdy Georgiana E. , Turk John , Legentil Laurent , Lemiègre Loïc , Hsu Fong-Fu
Published: January 2019

Mass spectrometry (MS)-based precursor ion isolation, collision-induced dissociation (CID) fragmentation, and detection using linear ion-trap multiple-stage mass spectrometry (LIT MSn) in combination with high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) provides a unique tool for structural characterization of complex mixture without chromatographic separation. This approach permits not only separation of various lipid families and their subfamilies, but also stereoisomers, thereby, revealing the structural details. In this report, we describe the LIT MSn approach to unveil the structures of a 2,3-diacyl trehalose (DAT) family isolated from the cell envelope of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in which more than 30 molecular species, and each species consisting of up to six isomeric structures were found. LIT MSn performed on both [M + Na]+ and [M + HCO2]− ions of DAT yield complimentary structural information for near complete characterization of the molecules, including the location of the fatty acyl substituents on the trehalose backbone. This latter information is based on the findings of the differential losses of the two fatty acyl chains in the MS2 and MS3 spectra; while the product ion spectra from higher stage LIT MSn permit confirmation of the structural assignment.
Spacetime Symmetry and LemaîTre Class Dark Energy Models
Authors: Dymnikova Irina , Dobosz Anna
Published: January 2019

We present the regular cosmological models of the Lemaître class with time-dependent and spatially inhomogeneous vacuum dark energy, which describe relaxation of the cosmological constant from its value powering inflation to the final non-zero value responsible for the present acceleration in the frame of one self-consistent theoretical scheme based on the algebraic classification of stress-energy tensors and spacetime symmetry directly related to their structure. Cosmological evolution starts with the nonsingular non-simultaneous de Sitter bang, followed by the Kasner-type anisotropic expansion, and goes towards the present de Sitter state. Spacetime symmetry provides a mechanism of reducing cosmological constant to a certain non-zero value involving the holographic principle which singles out the special class of the Lemaître dark energy models with the global structure of the de Sitter spacetime. For this class cosmological evolution is guided by quantum evaporation of the cosmological horizon whose dynamics entirely determines the final value of the cosmological constant. For the choice of the density profile modeling vacuum polarization in a spherical gravitational field and the GUT scale for the inflationary value of cosmological constant, its final value agrees with that given by observations. Anisotropy grows quickly at the postinflationary stage, then remains constant and decreases to A < 10 − 6 when the vacuum density starts to dominate.
Assessing the Potential Impact of Rising Production of Industrial Wood Pellets on Streamflow in the Presence of Projected Changes in Land Use and Climate: A Case Study from the Oconee River Basin in Georgia, United States
Authors: Shrestha Surendra , Dwivedi Puneet , McKay S. Kyle , Radcliffe David
Published: January 2019

This study examines the impact of projected land use changes in the context of growing production of industrial wood pellets coupled with expected changes in precipitation and temperature due to the changing climate on streamflow in a watershed located in the northeastern corner of the Oconee River Basin. We used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for ascertaining any changes in streamflow over time. The developed model was calibrated over a seven-year period (2001–2007) and validated over another seven-year period (2008–2014). Any changes in streamflow were simulated for a combination of 10 land use and climate change cases, from 2015 to 2028, under the two scenarios of High and Low Demand for industrial wood pellets. Our results suggest that streamflow is relatively stable (<1% change) for land use and temperature-related cases relative to the base case of no change in land use and climate. However, changes in precipitation by ±10% lead to considerable changes (±25%) in streamflow relative to the base case. Based on our results, expected changes in precipitation due to the changing climate will determine any changes in the streamflow, rather than projected land use changes in the context of rising demand for industrial wood pellets for export purposes in the selected watershed, keeping land under urban areas as constant. This study contributes to our broader understanding of the sustainability of the transatlantic industrial wood pellet trade; however, we suggest undertaking similar research at a larger spatial scale over a longer time horizon for understanding trade-offs across carbon, biodiversity, and water impacts of the transatlantic industrial wood pellet trade.
Topographical Analysis of the 2013 Typhoon Haiyan Storm Surge Flooding by Combining the JMA Storm Surge Model and the FLO-2D Flood Inundation Model
Authors: Dasallas Lea , Lee Seungsoo
Published: January 2019

The floods associated with the effects of an incoming tropical cyclone have an immense effect in the Philippines, especially with respect to agriculture, industry, livelihood, and public safety. Knowledge of how such storm surge flooding can affect the community is therefore of great importance. In this study, the mechanisms behind Typhoon Haiyan’s anomalous storm surge flooding in 2013, which resulted in more than 6300 casualties and 2.86 billion USD worth of damage in the Philippines, were investigated. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) storm surge model and the FLO-2D flood model were used to simulate Typhoon Haiyan’s storm surge height and the extent of inundation, respectively. The storm surge input data were obtained from JMA typhoon data, and the digital terrain models used were gathered from the airborne interferometric synthetic aperture radar data. The model’s accuracy was also validated using field validation data of the extent of the observed storm surge in affected coastal areas. Topographical analysis of the inundated regions showed the effects of coastal shape, elevation, and position relative to the typhoon’s approach angle on storm surge flow depth and velocity. Storm surge maximum velocity appears to increase as the fluid flows to an increasingly elevated area. Observing fluid velocity in a coastal area with uniform storm surge discharge from all directions also showed that flow velocity tends to increase at the center. Greater flood depths were experienced in areas with lower coastal elevation and not directly located at the coast, compared to higher elevation coastal areas. Greater extents of storm surge flooding are expected in coastal areas that have a concave shape, as fluid is more likely to be dispersed when hitting a convex coast. Extents are likewise observed to be greater in coastal regions that are located perpendicular to the direction of the typhoon. The research also validated the option of using a combination of typhoon and flood models to simulate the inundation flooding caused by extreme weather events.