bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anti-Apoptotic Effect of ASC-Exosomes in an In Vitro ALS Model and Their Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Bonafede Roberta , Brandi Jessica , Manfredi Marcello , Scambi Ilaria , Schiaffino Lorenzo , Merigo Flavia , Turano Ermanna , Bonetti Bruno , Marengo Emilio , Cecconi Daniela , Mariotti Raffaella
Published: September 2019

Stem cell therapy represents a promising approach in the treatment of several neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The beneficial effect of stem cells is exerted by paracrine mediators, as exosomes, suggesting a possible potential use of these extracellular vesicles as non-cell based therapy. We demonstrated that exosomes isolated from adipose stem cells (ASC) display a neuroprotective role in an in vitro model of ALS. Moreover, the internalization of ASC-exosomes by the cells was shown and the molecules and the mechanisms by which exosomes could exert their beneficial effect were addressed. We performed for the first time a comprehensive proteomic analysis of exosomes derived from murine ASC. We identified a total of 189 proteins and the shotgun proteomics analysis revealed that the exosomal proteins are mainly involved in cell adhesion and negative regulation of the apoptotic process. We correlated the protein content to the anti-apoptotic effect of exosomes observing a downregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase-3 and upregulation of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 α, in an in vitro model of ALS after cell treatment with exosomes. Overall, this study shows the neuroprotective effect of ASC-exosomes after their internalization and their global protein profile, that could be useful to understand how exosomes act, demonstrating that they can be employed as therapy in neurodegenerative diseases.
Fisetin, a 3,7,3′,4′-Tetrahydroxyflavone Inhibits the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK Pathways and Ameliorates Psoriasis Pathology in 2D and 3D Organotypic Human Inflammatory Skin Models
Authors: Chamcheu Jean Christopher , Esnault Stephane , Adhami Vaqar M. , Noll Andrea L. , Banang-Mbeumi Sergette , Roy Tithi , Singh Sitanshu S. , Huang Shile , Kousoulas Konstantin G. , Mukhtar Hasan
Published: September 2019

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease that involves the interaction of immune and skin cells, and is characterized by cytokine-driven epidermal hyperplasia, deviant differentiation, inflammation, and angiogenesis. Because the available treatments for psoriasis have significant limitations, dietary products are potential natural sources of therapeutic molecules, which can repair the molecular defects associated with psoriasis and could possibly be developed for its management. Fisetin (3,7,3′,4′-tetrahydroxyflavone), a phytochemical naturally found in pigmented fruits and vegetables, has demonstrated proapoptotic and antioxidant effects in several malignancies. This study utilized biochemical, cellular, pharmacological, and tissue engineering tools to characterize the effects of fisetin on normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and CD4+ T lymphocytes in 2D and 3D psoriasis-like disease models. Fisetin treatment of NHEKs dose- and time-dependently induced differentiation and inhibited interleukin-22-induced proliferation, as well as activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Fisetin treatment of TNF-α stimulated NHEKs also significantly inhibited the activation of p38 and JNK, but had enhanced effect on ERK1/2 (MAPK). In addition, fisetin treatment significantly decreased the secretion of Th1/Th-17 pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly IFN-γ and IL-17A by 12-O-tetradecanolylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated NHEKs and anti-CD3/CD28-activated human PBMCs. Furthermore, we established the in vivo relevance of fisetin functions, using a 3D full-thickness human skin model of psoriasis (FTRHSP) that closely mimics in vivo human psoriatic skin lesions. Herein, fisetin significantly ameliorated psoriasis-like disease features, and decreased the production of IL-17 by CD4+ T lymphocytes co-cultured with FTRHSP. Collectively, our data identify the prodifferentiative, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects of fisetin, via modulation of the PI3K-Akt-mTOR and p38/JNK pathways and the production of cytokines in 2D and 3D human skin models of psoriasis. These results suggest that fisetin has a great potential to be developed as an effective and inexpensive agent for the treatment of psoriasis and other related inflammatory skin disorders.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Low Concentration PVP-Silver Nanoparticles Deposited on DBD Plasma-Treated Polyamide 6,6 Fabric
Authors: Ribeiro Ana , Senturk Dilara , Silva Késia , Modic Martina , Cvelbar Uros , Dinescu Gheorghe , Mitu Bogdana , Nikiforov Anton , Leys Christophe , Kuchakova Irina , De Vrieze Mike , Souto António , Zille Andrea
Published: September 2019

In this study, a low concentration (10 μg·mL−1) of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP)-coated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were deposited by spray and exhaustion (30, 70 and 100 °C) methods onto untreated and dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma-treated polyamide 6,6 (PA66) fabric. DBD plasma-treated samples showed higher AgNP deposition than untreated ones for all methods. After five washing cycles, only DBD plasma-treated samples displayed AgNPs on the fabric surface. The best-performing method was exhaustion at 30 °C, which exhibited less agglomeration and the best antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus (4 log reduction). For E. coli, the antimicrobial effect showed good results in all the exhaustion samples (5 log reduction). Considering the spray method, only the DBD plasma-treated samples showed some bacteriostatic activity for both strains, but the AgNP concentration was not enough to have a bactericidal effect. Our results suggest DBD plasma may be a low cost and chemical-free method for the preparation of antibacterial textiles, allowing for the immobilization of a very low—but effective—concentration of AgNPs.
Chemical-Reactivity Properties, Drug Likeness, and Bioactivity Scores of Seragamides A–F Anticancer Marine Peptides: Conceptual Density Functional Theory Viewpoint
Authors: Flores-Holguín Norma , Frau Juan , Glossman-Mitnik Daniel
Published: September 2019

A methodology based on concepts that arose from Density Functional Theory (CDFT) was chosen for the calculation of global and local reactivity descriptors of the Seragamide family of marine anticancer peptides. Determination of active sites for the molecules was achieved by resorting to some descriptors within Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) such as Fukui functions. The pKas of the six studied peptides were established using a proposed relationship between this property and calculated chemical hardness. The drug likenesses and bioactivity properties of the peptides considered in this study were obtained by resorting to a homology model by comparison with the bioactivity of related molecules in their interaction with different receptors. With the object of analyzing the concept of drug repurposing, a study of potential AGE-inhibition abilities of Seragamides peptides was pursued by comparison with well-known drugs that are already available as pharmaceuticals.
In Vivo Skin Characterizations by Using Opto-Thermal Depth-Resolved Detection Spectra
Authors: Zhang Xu , Bontozoglou Christos , Xiao Perry
Published: September 2019

OTTER (opto-thermal transient emission radiometry) is an infrared remote sensing technology that has been extensively used in skin measurements. It is non-contact, non-invasive, and has a unique depth profiling capability. By selecting different detection wavelengths, OTTER can be used for different types of skin measurements, such as skin hydration measurements and skin topically applied substance measurements, etc. By plotting the results at different detection wavelengths, we can have an opto-thermal detection spectrum. Combining with OTTER’s unique depth profiling capability, we can get a depth-resolved opto-thermal detection spectrum. This is a powerful tool that can be used for many skin studies. Here we will present our latest study with details on the apparatus setup, theoretical background, as well as experimental results.
Monfortinho Thermal Water-Based Creams: Effects on Skin Hydration, Psoriasis, and Eczema in Adults
Authors: Almeida Cristina , Madeira Ana , Marto Joana , Graça Angélica , Pinto Pedro , Ribeiro Helena
Published: September 2019

The use of mineral water for therapeutic purposes has varied from century to century and from country to country. Its effectiveness depends on the individual experiences of the population and their cultural traditions. Usually, the waters recommended for dermatological treatment are hot springs that contain sulfur or more recently, silicon. The mechanisms by which mineral waters actuate in dermatological disorders are still not clear but it is believed that they involve thermal, mechanical, chemical, immunologic, and anti-oxidant reactions and enzymatic activity. The aim of this study is to characterize the thermal waters of Monfortinho, one of the oldest Portuguese spas, their potential use for the preparation of dermatological formulations (creams), and their effectiveness on the treatment of skin disorders (psoriasis and eczema). To accomplish this, cream formulations with different contents of thermal water were developed. The formulations were characterized in terms of thermal water analysis and physicochemical properties and their effects were studied by skin biometrics in adults (mean age of 54.3 years old) through skin hydration evaluation and evaluated in clinical studies on 22 patients with psoriasis and eczema. The results showed that all the formulations improved the skin hydration and have beneficial effects in relieving the symptoms of psoriasis and other disorders, but no significant differences were observed when thermal water was used (compared to laboratory ultra-pure water).
Space Charge Characteristics and Electrical Properties of Micro-Nano ZnO/LDPE Composites
Authors: Gao Jun-Guo , Li Xia , Yang Wen-Hua , Zhang Xiao-Hong
Published: September 2019

The synergistic effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) Micro/Nano particles simultaneously filled in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) on the space charge characteristics and electrical properties has been investigated by melt blending micro-scale and nanoscale ZnO additive particles into LDPE matrix to prepare Micro-ZnO, Nano-ZnO, and Micro-Nano ZnO/LDPE composites. The morphological structures of composite samples are characterized by Polarizing Light Microscopy (PLM), and the space charge accumulations and insulation performances are correlated in the analyses with Pulse Electronic Acoustic (PEA), DC breakdown field strength, and conductance tests. It is indicated that both the micro and nano ZnO fillers can introduce plenty of heterogeneous nuclei into the LDPE matrix so as to impede the LDPE spherocrystal growth and regularize the crystalline grains in neatly-arranged morphology. By filling microparticles together with nanoparticles of ZnO additives, the space charge accumulations are significantly inhibited under an applied DC voltage and the minimum initial residual charges with the slowest charge decaying rate have been achieved after an electrode short connection. While the micro-nano ZnO/LDPE composites acquire the lowest conductivity, the breakdown strengths of the ZnO/LDPE nanocomposite and micro-nano composite are, respectively, 13.7% and 3.4% higher than that of the neat LDPE material.
Aperiodic Photonics of Elliptic Curves
Authors: Dal Negro Luca , Chen Yuyao , Sgrignuoli Fabrizio
Published: September 2019

In this paper we propose a novel approach to aperiodic order in optical science and technology that leverages the intrinsic structural complexity of certain non-polynomial (hard) problems in number theory and cryptography for the engineering of optical media with novel transport and wave localization properties. In particular, we address structure-property relationships in a large number (900) of light scattering systems that physically manifest the distinctive aperiodic order of elliptic curves and the associated discrete logarithm problem over finite fields. Besides defining an extremely rich subject with profound connections to diverse mathematical areas, elliptic curves offer unprecedented opportunities to engineer light scattering phenomena in aperiodic environments beyond the limitations of traditional random media. Our theoretical analysis combines the interdisciplinary methods of point patterns spatial statistics with the rigorous Green’s matrix solution of the multiple wave scattering problem for electric and magnetic dipoles and provides access to the spectral and light scattering properties of novel deterministic aperiodic structures with enhanced light-matter coupling for nanophotonics and metamaterials applications to imaging and spectroscopy.
The Microalloying Effect of Ce on the Mechanical Properties of Medium Entropy Bulk Metallic Glass Composites
Authors: Zhao Yanchun , Zhao Pengbiao , Li Wensheng , Kou Shengzhong , Jiang Jianlong , Mao Xuejing , Yang Zhuang
Published: September 2019

Novel ultra-strong medium entropy bulk metallic glasses composites (BMGCs) Fe65.4−xCexMn14.3Si9.4Cr10C0.9 and Ti40−xCexNi40Cu20 (x = 0, 1.0), through the martensite transformation induced plasticity (TRIP effect) to enhance both the ductility and work-hardening capability, were fabricated using magnetic levitation melting and copper mold suction via high frequency induction heating. Furthermore, the Ce microalloying effects on microstructure and mechanical behaviors were studied. The Fe-based BMGCs consisted of face-centered cubic (fcc) γ-Fe and body-centered cubic (bcc) α-Fe phase, as well as Ti-based BMGCs containing supercooled B2-Ti (Ni, Cu) and a thermally induced martensite phase B19’-Ti (Ni, Cu). As loading, the TRIP BMGCs exhibited work-hardening behavior, a high fracture strength, and large plasticity, which was attributed to the stress-induced transformation of ε-Fe martensite and B19’-Ti (Ni, Cu) martensite. Ce addition further improved the strengthening and toughening effects of TRIP BMGCs. Adding elemental Ce enhanced the mixing entropy ΔSmix and atomic size difference δ, while reducing the mixing enthalpy ΔHmix, thus improving the glass forming ability and delaying the phase transition process, and hence prolonging the work-hardening period before fracturing. The fracture strength σf and plastic stress εp of Ti39CeNi40Cu20 and Fe64.4CeMn14.3Si9.4Cr10C0.9 alloys were up to 2635 MPa and 13.8%, and 2905 MPa and 30.1%, respectively.
What is the Long-Term Effect of Bamboo Dominance on Adult Trees in the Araucaria Forest? A Comparative Analysis between Two Successional Stages in Southern Brazil
Authors: Lacerda André Eduardo Biscaia , Kellermann Betina
Published: September 2019

Bamboos are opportunistic species that rapidly colonize open areas following forest disturbance, forming dense clusters that alter the regenerative processes and maintain lower levels of tree diversity. Widespread forest degradation, especially in Latin America and Asia, and human-induced introduction have allowed native and non-native bamboo species to thrive, hindering successional pathways that would otherwise lead to more diverse forests; such a large-scale phenomenon is a key concern in the conservation of forest resources around the globe. Despite previous research on this phenomenon, little is known about the long-term effects of bamboo dominance on forest structure and composition and the corresponding interaction with natural regeneration. As such, we sought to evaluate the long-term effects of bamboo dominance on the dynamics of adult forest populations considering two forest types (Bamboo Forest—BF and Araucaria Forest—AF) over an 11-year period in the Embrapa Research Station in Caçador, Brazil. We monitored 20 plots (15 × 15 m) in each forest type where we tagged, identified, and measured the height and diameter of all the trees taller than 1.5 m (H) and diameter at breast height (DBH) greater than 3.18 cm. Comparisons were based on forest species diversity and structure parameters. In BF, diversity of species increased after the bamboo die-off that occurred in 2006 with a subsequent reduction in the number of pioneer species overtime. However, secondary species remained stagnant demonstrating that recruitment and transition into higher size classes is restricted to the immediate die-off aftermath. On the other hand, plant diversity and structure in the relatively bamboo-free AF were stable with secondary species accounting for the most richness. Our results confirm that BF maintains significantly lower levels of diversity that are restricted to pioneer species; AF structure and diversity are not significantly affected by bamboo die-off and recolonization; and BF tree species are caught in a closed cycle of arrested successional development. The widespread presence of bamboos as dominant species in the region should become a part of the conversation pertaining to forest management and conservation in Brazil and other countries in south America and Asia.
Forecast Bitcoin Volatility with Least Squares Model Averaging
Authors: Xie Tian
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we study forecasting problems of Bitcoin-realized volatility computed on data from the largest crypto exchange—Binance. Given the unique features of the crypto asset market, we find that conventional regression models exhibit strong model specification uncertainty. To circumvent this issue, we suggest using least squares model-averaging methods to model and forecast Bitcoin volatility. The empirical results demonstrate that least squares model-averaging methods in general outperform many other conventional regression models that ignore specification uncertainty.
Bivariate Volatility Modeling with High-Frequency Data
Authors: Matei Marius , Rovira Xari , Agell Núria
Published: September 2019

We propose a methodology to include night volatility estimates in the day volatility modeling problem with high-frequency data in a realized generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) framework, which takes advantage of the natural relationship between the realized measure and the conditional variance. This improves volatility modeling by adding, in a two-factor structure, information on latent processes that occur while markets are closed but captures the leverage effect and maintains a mathematical structure that facilitates volatility estimation. A class of bivariate models that includes intraday, day, and night volatility estimates is proposed and was empirically tested to confirm whether using night volatility information improves the day volatility estimation. The results indicate a forecasting improvement using bivariate models over those that do not include night volatility estimates.
How Domestic Firms Benefit from the Presence of Multinational Enterprises: Evidence from Indonesia and Philippines
Authors: Olayinka Joshua Akinlolu , Loykulnanta Sirinuch
Published: September 2019

Incentives are provided to attract multinational enterprises (MNEs) to host countries, with the expectation that their technology will spread to domestic firms. The purpose of this study is to examine how domestic firms benefit from the spillover of technology from MNEs. Using balanced panel data obtained from the World Bank Enterprise Survey, this study examined the impact of technology spillover through three channels: demonstration, competition, and worker mobility on productivity of domestic firms in Indonesia and Philippines. This study also explored the importance of domestic firms’ absorptive capacity in capturing benefits from the three spillover channels. The Cobb–Douglas production model was used as the basis for the estimation model. A fixed-effect model for panel data analysis was used to analyze the data. The empirical outcome of this study revealed that worker mobility is the most viable channel of spillover in the two countries. It also showed that firms with high absorptive capacity were found to benefit from all the channels of spillover in both countries, while the firms with low absorptive capacity benefit differently in the two countries. Thus, this study validates the need for domestic firms to develop absorptive capacity in order to benefit from the technology spillover from MNEs.
An Efficient and Low-Power Design of the SM3 Hash Algorithm for IoT
Authors: Zheng Xin , Hu Xianghong , Zhang Jinglong , Yang Jian , Cai Shuting , Xiong Xiaoming
Published: September 2019

The Internet-of-Things (IoT) has a security problem that has become increasingly significant. New architecture of SM3 which can be implemented in loT devices is proposed in this paper. The software/hardware co-design approach is put forward to implement the new architecture to achieve high performance and low costs. To facilitate software/hardware co-design, an AHB-SM3 interface controller (AHB-SIC) is designed as an AHB slave interface IP to exchange data with the embedded CPU. Task scheduling and hardware resource optimization techniques are adopted in the design of expansion modules. The task scheduling and critical path optimization techniques are utilized in the compression module design. The proposed architecture is implemented with ASIC using SMIC 130 nm technology. For the purpose of comparison, the proposed architecture is also implemented on Virtex 7 FPGA with a 36 MHz system clock. Compared with the standard implementation of SM3, the proposed architecture saves the number of registers for approximately 3.11 times, and 263 Mbps throughput is achieved under the 36 MHz clock. This design signifies an excellent trade-off between performance and the hardware area. Thus, the design accommodates the resource-limited IoT security devices very well. The proposed architecture is applied to an intelligent security gateway device.
Design and Implementation of an Arduino-Based Plug-and-Play Acquisition System for Seismic Noise Measurements
Authors: Soler-Llorens Juan Luis , Galiana-Merino Juan Jose , Nassim-Benabdeloued Boualem Youcef , Rosa-Cintas Sergio , Ortiz Zamora Javier , Giner-Caturla Jose Juan
Published: September 2019

The analysis of seismic noise provides a reliable estimation of the soil properties, which supposes the starting point for the assessment of the seismic hazard. The horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio technique calculates the resonant frequency of the soil just by using a single three-component sensor. Array measurements require at least several vertical sensors registering simultaneously and their analysis provides an estimation of the surface waves dispersion curve. Although these methods are relatively cheaper than other geotechnical techniques, the cost of the sensors and the multi-channel data acquisition system means that small research groups cannot afford this kind of equipment. In this work, two prototypes for registering seismic noise have been developed and implemented: a three-channel acquisition system, optimized for working with three-component sensors; and a twelve-channel acquisition system, prepared for working simultaneously with twelve vertical geophones. Both prototypes are characterized by being open-hardware, open-software, easy to implement, and low-cost. The main aim is to provide a data acquisition system that can be reproduced and applied by any research group. Both developed prototypes have been tested and compared with other commercial equipment, showing their suitability to register seismic noise and to estimate the soil characteristics.
A Low-Cost and Compact Three-Dimensional Microwave Holographic Imaging System
Authors: Wu Hailun , Amineh Reza K.
Published: September 2019

With the significant growth in the use of non-metallic composite materials, the demands for new and robust non-destructive testing methodologies is high. Microwave imaging has attracted a lot of attention recently for such applications. This is in addition to the biomedical imaging applications of microwave that are also being pursued actively. Among these efforts, in this paper, we propose a compact and cost-effective three-dimensional microwave imaging system based on a fast and robust holographic technique. For this purpose, we employ narrow-band microwave data, instead of wideband data used in previous three-dimensional cylindrical holographic imaging systems. Three-dimensional imaging is accomplished by using an array of receiver antennas surrounding the object and scanning that along with a transmitter antenna over a cylindrical aperture. To achieve low cost and compact size, we employ off-the-shelf components to build a data acquisition system replacing the costly and bulky vector network analyzers. The simulation and experimental results demonstrate the satisfactory performance of the proposed imaging system. We also show the effect of number of frequencies and size of the objects on the quality of reconstructed images.
Performance Improvement of a Grid-Connected Inverter under Distorted Grid Voltage Using a Harmonic Extractor
Authors: Cho Sungjoon , Kang Ho-Sung , Lee Kyo-Beum , Yoo Ji-Yoon
Published: September 2019

This paper introduces an improved current control strategy for a grid-connected inverter system operating under distorted grid voltage conditions. Although existing current controllers for grid-connected inverters have proportional integral gains with suitable bandwidth, low-order harmonic components can be generated by distorted grid voltages. The proposed improved current controller is established in a synchronous reference frame that rotates at harmonic frequency. The input signals for the harmonic current controller should contain only the specific harmonic components requiring suppression. Therefore, the proposed current controller uses a harmonic extractor to distinguish current signals from fundamental and specific harmonic components. The harmonic extractor retains only the relevant harmonic components for individual current controllers with high harmonic signal ratios. This paper introduces two different strategies to extract specific harmonic components for the current controller. The proposed control strategy does not require any additional hardware filter circuits and can be implemented easily by designing a suitable digital filter. When using the proposed method, grid current quality is significantly improved compared to conventional methods that do not include harmonic extractors. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified through simulations and practical experiments.
Practical Implementation of the Backstepping Sliding Mode Controller MPPT for a PV-Storage Application
Authors: Bjaoui Marwen , Khiari Brahim , Benadli Ridha , Memni Mouad , Sellami Anis
Published: September 2019

This study presents a design and an implementation of a robust Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system with battery storage. A new control scheme is applied for the boost converter based on the combination of the adaptive perturb and observe fuzzy logic controller (P&O-FLC) MPPT technique and the backstepping sliding mode control (BS-SMC) approach. The MPPT controller design was used to accurately track the PV operating point to its maximum power point (MPP) under changing climatic conditions. The presented MPPT based on the P&O-FLC technique generates the reference PV voltage and then a cascade control loop type, based on the BS-SMC approach is used. The aims of this approach are applied to regulate the inductor current and then the PV voltage to its reference values. In order to reduce system costs and complexity, a high gain observer (HGO) was designed, based on the model of the PV system, to estimate online the real value of the boost converter’s inductor current. The performance and the robustness of the BS-SMC approach are evaluated using a comparative simulation with a conventional proportional integral (PI) controller implemented in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. The obtained results demonstrate that the proposed approach not only provides a near-perfect tracking performance (dynamic response, overshoot, steady-state error), but also offers greater robustness and stability than the conventional PI controller. Experimental results fitted with dSPACE software reveal that the PV module could reach the MPP and achieve the performance and robustness of the designed BS-SMC MPPT controller.
Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of Six-Cell Two-Dimensional Configuration Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack Based on Planar 6 × 6 cm Anode-Supported Cells
Authors: Nguyen Xuan-Vien
Published: September 2019

Using energy efficiently and reducing environmental pollution caused by energy consumption are becoming increasingly important. In this study, a two-dimensional (2D) solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack configuration was designed to be operated with six cells. This design could potentially be applied in thermal power plants in developing countries where waste heat is more plentiful; the 2D configuration six-cell stack could be an elementary module, and such modules could be more easily placed in contact with hot walls where waste heat recovery is required. In this report, the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of the stack are described. The stack, with six 6 × 6 cm2 cells (5 × 5 cm2 effective area), is connected in series and operates successfully. The results show that the maximum potential of the six-cell stack is around 5.5 V (0.92 V per unit cell) at 700 °C. The maximum output power of the stack is 6.0 W at 700 °C, with humidified hydrogen (with 3% H2O) as the fuel. The results show that the six-cell 2D configuration SOFC stack can be innovatively constructed.
Dynamic Changes in Post-Ingestive Sensations after Consumption of a Breakfast Meal High in Protein or Carbohydrate
Authors: Duerlund Mette , Vad Andersen Barbara , Victor Byrne Derek
Published: September 2019

The obesity epidemic urges exploration of several parameters that play an important role in our eating behaviours. Post-ingestive sensations can provide a more comprehensive picture of the eating experience than mere satiety measurements. This study aimed to (1) quantify the dynamics of different post-ingestive sensations after food intake and (2) study the effect of protein and carbohydrate on hedonic and post-ingestive responses. Forty-eight participants (mean age 20.4) were served a breakfast meal high in protein (HighPRO) or high in carbohydrate (HighCHO) on two separate days using a randomised controlled crossover design. Post-ingestive sensations were measured every 30 min, for 3 h post intake using visual analogue scale (VAS). Results showed a significant main effect of time for all post-ingestive sensations. HighCHO induced higher hedonic responses compared to HighPRO, as well as higher ratings for post-ingestive sensations such as Satisfaction, Food joy, Overall wellbeing and Fullness. HighPRO, on the other hand, induced higher ratings for Sweet desire post intake. The development of sensations after a meal might be important for consumers’ following food choices and for extra calorie intake. More detailed knowledge in this area could elucidate aspects of overeating and obesity.
Triangular Test of Amanita Mushrooms by Using Electronic Nose and Sensory Panel
Authors: Portalo-Calero Francisco , Arroyo Patricia , Suárez José Ignacio , Lozano Jesús
Published: September 2019

This work aims to advance understanding of the differentiation of mushroom species through electronic devices that use sensors of various technologies and techniques for pattern recognition, comparing mainly volatile substances that emanate from them. In this first phase, the capacity of human olfaction to differentiate between the smell released by different wild mushrooms of the genus Amanita was analyzed by means of a triangular sensory test, comparing later the data to those obtained for the same samples with an electronic nose in a similar test. The results, still very preliminary, encourage imagining the wide application that these techniques will have and the feedback that this application can suppose for the training of the sense of human olfaction.
Bioprospecting for Antithrombotic Polar Lipids from Salmon, Herring, and Boarfish By-Products
Authors: Tsoupras Alexandros , O’Keeffe Eoin , Lordan Ronan , Redfern Shane , Zabetakis Ioannis
Published: September 2019

Marine polar lipids (PLs) have exhibited promising cardioprotection. In this study, marine by-products such as salmon heads (SHs), their brain, eyes and main optic nerves (SBEON), and head-remnants after SBEON removal (RemSH), as well as herring fillets (HFs), herring heads (HHs) and minced boarfish (MB), were evaluated as potential sustainable sources of such bioactive PLs. The antithrombotic bioactivities of PLs derived from these marine by-products were assessed for the first time in human platelets against platelet-activating factor (PAF), thrombin, collagen, and adenosine diphosphate (ADP), while their fatty acid composition was evaluated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). PLs from all marine by-products tested possess strong antithrombotic activities against aggregation of human platelets induced by all platelet agonists tested. RemSH, SBEON, HHs, HFs, and MB exhibited strong anti-PAF effects, similar to those previously reported for salmon fillets. PLs from MB had the strongest anti-collagen effects and PLs from SHs and SBEON were the most active against thrombin and ADP. PLs from HHs had similar antithrombotic effects with those from HFs in all agonists. RemSH was less active in all agonists, suggesting that SBEON is the main source of bioactive PLs in SHs. All PLs were rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3PUFA), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acid, with favourable low values of the ω6/ω3 ratio. Salmon, herring, and boarfish by-products are rich sources of bioactive marine PLs with potent antithrombotic and cardioprotective properties.
The Global Prader–Willi Syndrome Registry: Development, Launch, and Early Demographics
Authors: Bohonowych Jessica , Miller Jennifer , McCandless Shawn E. , Strong Theresa V.
Published: September 2019

Advances in technologies offer new opportunities to collect and integrate data from a broad range of sources to advance the understanding of rare diseases and support the development of new treatments. Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare, complex neurodevelopmental disorder, which has a variable and incompletely understood natural history. PWS is characterized by early failure to thrive, followed by the onset of excessive appetite (hyperphagia). Additional characteristics include multiple endocrine abnormalities, hypotonia, hypogonadism, sleep disturbances, a challenging neurobehavioral phenotype, and cognitive disability. The Foundation for Prader–Willi Research’s Global PWS Registry is one of more than twenty-five registries developed to date through the National Organization of Rare Disorders (NORD) IAMRARE Registry Program. The Registry consists of surveys covering general medical history, system-specific clinical complications, diet, medication and supplement use, as well as behavior, mental health, and social information. Information is primarily parent/caregiver entered. The platform is flexible and allows addition of new surveys, including updatable and longitudinal surveys. Launched in 2015, the PWS Registry has enrolled 1696 participants from 37 countries, with 23,550 surveys completed. This resource can improve the understanding of PWS natural history and support medical product development for PWS.
Oral Health Behavior Change in Mexican-American Caregivers: A Community-Based Intervention Study
Authors: Rai Nayanjot , Tiwari Tamanna
Published: September 2019

An oral health prevention intervention was conducted with Mexican-American (MA) caregivers, focused on improving their oral health knowledge, behavior, and self-efficacy. Five in-person intervention sessions were conducted with caregivers, followed by a 15 min skill-building exercise. A goal-setting sheet was provided, and two goals were chosen for fulfilment during the three month intervention period. The data on parental oral health knowledge, behavior, and self-efficacy were collected pre- and post-intervention using a portion of Basic Factors Research Questionnaire (BRFQ). Paired t-tests were conducted to test significant differences in the means of pre- and post-intervention oral health behavior, knowledge, and self-efficacy scores, and pre- and post-intervention individual item scores. Forty six primary caregivers were enrolled. There were significant differences in the means of pre- and post-intervention oral health knowledge (p = 0.003), oral health behavior (p = 0.0005), and self-efficacy scores (p = 0.001). The individual item mean scores showed that there was a significant increase in the number of times caregivers checked for spots (p = 0.016) and a significant decrease in the consumption of sweet or sugary drinks (p = 0.032) post-intervention. Most of the caregivers believed that cavities were caused by germs in the mouth (p = 0.001), sharing utensils with children was bad for their teeth (p < 0.001), and fluoride toothpaste was best for a child’s teeth (p < 0.001). The intervention resulted in improved caregiver oral health knowledge, behavior, and self-efficacy.
An Important Need to Monitor from an Early Age the Neurotoxins in the Blood or by an Equivalent Biomarker
Authors: Schofield Keith
Published: September 2019

An overwhelming amount of evidence now suggests that some people are becoming overloaded with neurotoxins. This is mainly from changes in their living environment and style, coupled with the fact that all people are different and display a broad distribution of genetic susceptibilities. It is important for individuals to know where they lie concerning their ability to either reject or retain toxins. Everyone is contaminated with a certain baseline of toxins that are alien to the body, namely aluminum, arsenic, lead, and mercury. Major societal changes have modified their intake, such as vaccines in enhanced inoculation procedures and the addition of sushi into diets, coupled with the ever-present lead, arsenic, and traces of manganese. It is now apparent that no single toxin is responsible for the current neurological epidemics, but rather a collaborative interaction with possible synergistic components. Selenium, although also a neurotoxin if in an excessive amount, is always present and is generally more present than other toxins. It performs as the body’s natural chelator. However, it is possible that the formation rates of active selenium proteins may become overburdened by other toxins. Every person is different and it now appears imperative that the medical profession establish an individual’s neurotoxicity baseline. Moreover, young women should certainly establish their baselines long before pregnancy in order to identify possible risk factors.
Long-Range Behaviour and Correlation in DFA and DCCA Analysis of Cryptocurrencies
Authors: Costa Natália , Silva César , Ferreira Paulo
Published: September 2019

In recent years, increasing attention has been devoted to cryptocurrencies, owing to their great development and valorization. In this study, we propose to analyse four of the major cryptocurrencies, based on their market capitalization and data availability: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin. We apply detrended fluctuation analysis (the regular one and with a sliding windows approach) and detrended cross-correlation analysis and the respective correlation coefficient. We find that Bitcoin and Ripple seem to behave as efficient financial assets, while Ethereum and Litecoin present some evidence of persistence. When correlating Bitcoin with the other cryptocurrencies under analysis, we find that for short time scales, all the cryptocurrencies have statistically significant correlations with Bitcoin, although Ripple has the highest correlations. For higher time scales, Ripple is the only cryptocurrency with significant correlation.
Enhanced Function and Overexpression of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors 1 and 5 in the Spinal Cord of the SOD1G93A Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis during Disease Progression
Authors: Bonifacino Tiziana , Rebosio Claudia , Provenzano Francesca , Torazza Carola , Balbi Matilde , Milanese Marco , Raiteri Luca , Usai Cesare , Fedele Ernesto , Bonanno Giambattista
Published: September 2019

Glutamate (Glu)-mediated excitotoxicity is a major cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and our previous work highlighted that abnormal Glu release may represent a leading mechanism for excessive synaptic Glu. We demonstrated that group I metabotropic Glu receptors (mGluR1, mGluR5) produced abnormal Glu release in SOD1G93A mouse spinal cord at a late disease stage (120 days). Here, we studied this phenomenon in pre-symptomatic (30 and 60 days) and early-symptomatic (90 days) SOD1G93A mice. The mGluR1/5 agonist (S)-3,5-Dihydroxyphenylglycine (3,5-DHPG) concentration dependently stimulated the release of [3H]d-Aspartate ([3H]d-Asp), which was comparable in 30- and 60-day-old wild type mice and SOD1G93A mice. At variance, [3H]d-Asp release was significantly augmented in 90-day-old SOD1G93A mice and both mGluR1 and mGluR5 were involved. The 3,5-DHPG-induced [3H]d-Asp release was exocytotic, being of vesicular origin and mediated by intra-terminal Ca2+ release. mGluR1 and mGluR5 expression was increased in Glu spinal cord axon terminals of 90-day-old SOD1G93A mice, but not in the whole axon terminal population. Interestingly, mGluR1 and mGluR5 were significantly augmented in total spinal cord tissue already at 60 days. Thus, function and expression of group I mGluRs are enhanced in the early-symptomatic SOD1G93A mouse spinal cord, possibly participating in excessive Glu transmission and supporting their implication in ALS. Please define all abbreviations the first time they appear in the abstract, the main text, and the first figure or table caption.
Genomic Organization of the B3-Domain Transcription Factor Family in Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) and Expression during Seed Development in Seedless and Seeded Cultivars
Authors: Ahmad Bilal , Zhang Songlin , Yao Jin , Rahman Mati Ur , Hanif Muhammad , Zhu Yanxun , Wang Xiping
Published: September 2019

Members of the plant-specific B3-domain transcription factor family have important and varied functions, especially with respect to vegetative and reproductive growth. Although B3 genes have been studied in many other plants, there is limited information on the genomic organization and expression of B3 genes in grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.). In this study, we identified 50 B3 genes in the grapevine genome and analyzed these genes in terms of chromosomal location and syntenic relationships, intron–exon organization, and promoter cis-element content. We also analyzed the presumed proteins in terms of domain structure and phylogenetic relationships. Based on the results, we classified these genes into five subfamilies. The syntenic relationships suggest that approximately half of the genes resulted from genome duplication, contributing to the expansion of the B3 family in grapevine. The analysis of cis-element composition suggested that most of these genes may function in response to hormones, light, and stress. We also analyzed expression of members of the B3 family in various structures of grapevine plants, including the seed during seed development. Many B3 genes were expressed preferentially in one or more structures of the developed plant, suggesting specific roles in growth and development. Furthermore, several of the genes were expressed differentially in early developing seeds from representative seeded and seedless cultivars, suggesting a role in seed development or abortion. The results of this study provide a foundation for functional analysis of B3 genes and new resources for future molecular breeding of grapevine.
Plant Extracts and Reactive Oxygen Species as Two Counteracting Agents with Anti- and Pro-Obesity Properties
Authors: Zielinska-Blizniewska Hanna , Sitarek Przemyslaw , Merecz-Sadowska Anna , Malinowska Katarzyna , Zajdel Karolina , Jablonska Marta , Sliwinski Tomasz , Zajdel Radoslaw
Published: September 2019

Obesity is a complex disease of great public health significance worldwide: It entails several complications including diabetes mellitus type 2, cardiovascular dysfunction and hypertension, and its prevalence is increasing around the world. The pathogenesis of obesity is closely related to reactive oxygen species. The role of reactive oxygen species as regulatory factors in mitochondrial activity in obese subjects, molecules taking part in inflammation processes linked to excessive size and number of adipocytes, and as agents governing the energy balance in hypothalamus neurons has been examined. Phytotherapy is the traditional form of treating health problems using plant-derived medications. Some plant extracts are known to act as anti-obesity agents and have been screened in in vitro models based on the inhibition of lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells and activity of pancreatic lipase methods and in in vivo high-fat diet-induced obesity rat/mouse models and human models. Plant products may be a good natural alternative for weight management and a source of numerous biologically-active chemicals, including antioxidant polyphenols that can counteract the oxidative stress associated with obesity. This review presents polyphenols as natural complementary therapy, and a good nutritional strategy, for treating obesity without serious side effects.
Deletion of a Seminal Gene Cluster Reinforces a Crucial Role of SVS2 in Male Fertility
Authors: Shindo Miyuki , Inui Masafumi , Kang Woojin , Tamano Moe , Tingwei Cai , Takada Shuji , Hibino Taku , Yoshida Manabu , Yoshida Kaoru , Okada Hiroshi , Iwamoto Teruaki , Miyado Kenji , Kawano Natsuko
Published: September 2019

Multiple genes, whose functions or expression are overlapping, compensate for the loss of one gene. A gene cluster in the mouse genome encodes five seminal vesicle proteins (SVS2, SVS3, SVS4, SVS5, and SVS6). These proteins are produced by male rodents and function in formation of the copulatory plug following mating. SVS2 plays an essential role in the successful internal fertilization by protecting the sperm membrane against a uterine immune attack. We hypothesized that the four remaining seminal vesicle proteins (SVPs) of this gene cluster may partially/completely compensate for the deficiency of SVS2. For confirming our hypothesis, we generated mice lacking the entire SVP-encoding gene cluster and compared their fecundity with Svs2-deficient (Svs2−/−) mice; that is, mice deficient in Svs2 alone. A single loxP site remained after the deletion of the Svs2 gene. Therefore, we inserted another loxP site by combining the CRISPR/Cas9 system with single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODN). Male mice lacking the entire SVP-encoding gene cluster (Svs2–6−/− mice) and thereby all five SVP proteins, generated by the deletion of 100kbp genomic DNA, showed low fecundity. However, the fecundity level was comparable with that from Svs2−/− male mice. Our results demonstrate that SVS3, SVS4, SVS5, and SVS6 do not function in the protection of sperm against a uterine immune attack in the absence of SVS2. Thus, Svs2 is the critical gene in the SVP gene cluster.