bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assimilation of Optimal Sized Hybrid Photovoltaic-Biomass System by Dragonfly Algorithm with Grid
Authors: Ghosh Smarajit , Karar Vinod
Published: July 2018

A growing interest in renewable energy resources has been observed for several years, due to their pollution-free nature, availability all over the world, and continuity. These facts make these energy resources attractive for many applications. In this work, the hybrid combination of a photovoltaic-biomass system is investigated as an energy source. This paper determines optimal sizing and cost reduction of grid-integrated renewable energy resources by using an intelligence optimization technique, the dragonfly algorithm. The efficiency of the proposed methodology is also compared with an existing technique, which uses the artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm. The scope of this work is to reduce the annual total cost of power with a reduced number of solar panels. The monthly average solar radiation is used to compute the obtained power. The outcome of the proposed technique proves that the grid-connected system with an optimal number of components satisfactorily meets the needs of the village at a reduced price. The simulation results are carried out under the MATLAB environment. The comparison of results clearly demonstrates that the proposed system is much more efficient than the existing one.
Variable Reactivity Control in Small Modular High Temperature Reactors Using Moderation Manipulation Techniques
Authors: Atkinson Seddon , Litskevich Dzianis , Merk Bruno
Published: July 2018

With extensive research being undertaken into small modular reactor design concepts, this has brought new challenges to the industry. One key challenge is to be able to compete with large scale nuclear power plants economically. In this article, a novel approach is applied to reduce the overall dependence on fixed burnable poisons during high reactivity periods within a high temperature graphite moderated reactor. To reduce the excess activity, we aim to harden the flux spectrum across the core by removing part of the central moderation column, thus breeding more plutonium, in a later period the flux spectrum is softened again to utilise this plutonium again. This provides a neutron storage effect within the 238U and the resulting breeding of Plutonium. Due to the small size and the annular design of the high temperature reactor, the central reflector is key to the thermalization process. By removing a large proportion of the central reflector, the fuel within the proximity of the central reflector are less likely to receive neutrons within the thermal energy range. In addition to this, the fuel at the extremities of the core have a higher chance of fission due to the higher number of neutrons reaching them. This works as a method of balancing the power distribution between the central and outside fuel pins. During points of low reactivity, such as the end of the fuel cycle, the central reflector can be reinserted and the additionally bred plutonium and U235 at the centre of the core will encounter a higher probability of fission due to more thermal neutrons within this region. By removing the central reflector, this provided a 320 pcm reactivity drop for the duration of the fuel cycle. The plutonium buildup provided additional fissile material up until the central reflector was reinserted. The described method created a two-fold benefit. The overall full power days within the core was increased by ~31 days due to the additional fissile material within the core and secondly the highest loaded power pins saw a 30% power reduction during the removal of the central reflector column.
Modular Predictor for Day-Ahead Load Forecasting and Feature Selection for Different Hours
Authors: Lin Lin , Xue Lin , Hu Zhiqiang , Huang Nantian
Published: July 2018

To improve the accuracy of the day-ahead load forecasting predictions of a single model, a novel modular parallel forecasting model with feature selection was proposed. First, load features were extracted from a historic load with a horizon from the previous 24 h to the previous 168 h considering the calendar feature. Second, a feature selection combined with a predictor process was carried out to select the optimal feature for building a reliable predictor with respect to each hour. The final modular model consisted of 24 predictors with a respective optimal feature subset for day-ahead load forecasting. New England and Singapore load data were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results indicated that the accuracy of the proposed modular model was higher than that of the traditional method. Furthermore, conducting a feature selection step when building a predictor improved the accuracy of load forecasting.
Cancer Risks Linked to the Bad Luck Hypothesis and Epigenomic Mutational Signatures
Authors: Belizário José E.
Published: July 2018

Exposure to pathogen infection, and occupational and environmental agents, contributes to induction of most types of cancer through different mechanisms. Cancer is defined and characterized by accumulation of mutations and epimutations that lead to changes in the cellular genome and epigenome. According to a recent Bad Luck Hypothesis, random error mutations during DNA replication in a small population of stem cells may be implicated in two-thirds of variation of cancer risk in 25 organs and tissues. What determines stem cell vulnerability and risk of malignancy across the spectrum of organs, such as the brain, bone marrow, skeletal muscles, skin, and liver? Have stem cells pooled in particular tissues or organs evolved some critical ability to deal with DNA damage in the presence of extrinsic environmental factors? This paper describes how the complex replication and repair DNA systems control mutational events. In addition, recent advances on cancer epigenomic signatures and epigenetic mechanisms are discussed, which will guide future investigation of the origin of cancer initiating cells in tissue and organs in a clinical setting.
Understory Plants Regulate Soil Respiration through Changes in Soil Enzyme Activity and Microbial C, N, and P Stoichiometry Following Afforestation
Authors: Zhao Fazhu , Wang Jieying , Zhang Lu , Ren Chengjie , Han Xinhui , Yang Gaihe , Doughty Russell , Deng Jian
Published: July 2018

Soil respiration (SR) is an important process in the carbon cycle. However, the means by which changes in understory plant community traits affect this ecosystem process is still poorly understood. In this study, plant species surveys were conducted and soil samples were collected from forests dominated by black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), with a chronosequence of 15, 25, and 40 years (RP15, RP25, and RP40, respectively), and farmland (FL). Understory plant coverage, evenness, diversity, and richness were determined. We investigated soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), nitrogen (MBN), phosphorus (MBP), and stoichiometry (MBC:MBN, MBC:MBP, and MBN:MBP). Soil enzyme assays (catalase, saccharase, urease, and alkaline phosphatase), heterotrophic respiration (HR), and autotrophic respiration (AR) were measured. The results showed that plant coverage, plant richness index (R), evenness, and Shannon-Wiener diversity were higher in RP25 and RP40 than in RP15. SR, HR, and AR were significantly higher in the forested sites than in farmland, especially for SR, which was on average 360.7%, 249.6%, and 248.2% higher in RP40, RP25, and RP15, respectively. Meanwhile, catalase, saccharase, urease, and alkaline phosphatase activities and soil microbial C, N, P, and its stoichiometry were also higher after afforestation. Moreover, significant Pearson linear correlations between understory plants (coverage, evenness, diversity, and richness) and SR, HR, and AR were observed, with the strongest correlation observed between plant coverage and SR. This correlation largely depended on soil enzymes (i.e., catalase, saccharase, urease, and alkaline phosphatase), and soil microbial biomass C, N, and P contents and its stoichiometry, particularly urease activity and the MBC:MBP ratio. Therefore, we conclude that plant communities are drivers of soil respiration, and that changes in soil respiration are associated with shifts in soil enzyme activities and nutrient stoichiometry.
Modeling Burned Areas in Indonesia: The FLAM Approach
Authors: Krasovskii Andrey , Khabarov Nikolay , Pirker Johannes , Kraxner Florian , Yowargana Ping , Schepaschenko Dmitry , Obersteiner Michael
Published: July 2018

Large-scale wildfires affect millions of hectares of land in Indonesia annually and produce severe smoke haze pollution and carbon emissions, with negative impacts on climate change, health, the economy and biodiversity. In this study, we apply a mechanistic fire model to estimate burned area in Indonesia for the first time. We use the Wildfire Climate Impacts and Adaptation Model (FLAM) that operates with a daily time step on the grid cell of 0.25 arc degrees, the same spatio-temporal resolution as in the Global Fire Emissions Database v4 (GFED). GFED data accumulated from 2000–2009 are used for calibrating spatially-explicit suppression efficiency in FLAM. Very low suppression levels are found in peatland of Kalimantan and Sumatra, where individual fires can burn for very long periods of time despite extensive rains and fire-fighting attempts. For 2010–2016, we validate FLAM estimated burned area temporally and spatially using annual GFED observations. From the validation for burned areas aggregated over Indonesia, we obtain Pearson’s correlation coefficient separately for wildfires and peat fires, which equals 0.988 in both cases. Spatial correlation analysis shows that in areas where around 70% is burned, the correlation coefficients are above 0.6, and in those where 30% is burned, above 0.9.
Photocrosslinked Dextran-Based Hydrogels as Carrier System for the Cells and Cytokines Induce Bone Regeneration in Critical Size Defects in Mice
Authors: Ritz Ulrike , Eberhardt Marc , Klein Anja , Frank Petra , Götz Hermann , Hofmann Alexander , Rommens Pol Maria , Jonas Ulrich
Published: July 2018

Modified biomaterials have for years been the focus of research into establishing new bone substitutes. In our preceding in vitro study employing different cell cultures, we developed chemically and mechanically characterized hydrogels based on photocrosslinkable dextran derivatives and demonstrated their cytocompatibility and their beneficial effects on the proliferation of osteoblasts and endothelial cells. In the present in vivo study, we investigate photocrosslinked dextran-based hydrogels in critical size defects in mice to evaluate their potential as carrier systems for cells or for a specific angiogenesis enhancing cytokine to induce bone formation. We could demonstrate that, with optimized laboratory practice, the endotoxin content of hydrogels could be reduced below the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-limit. Dextran-based hydrogels were either loaded with a monoculture of endothelial cells or a co-culture of human osteoblasts with endothelial cells, or with stromal-derived-growth factor (SDF-1). Scaffolds were implanted into a calvarial defect of critical size in mice and their impact on bone formation was assessed by µCt-analyses, histology and immunohistology. Our study demonstrates that promotion of angiogenesis either by SDF-1 or a monoculture of endothelial cells induces bone regeneration at a physiological level. These in vivo results indicate the potential of dextran-based hydrogel composites in bone regeneration to deliver cells and cytokines to the defect site.
Genome-Scale Metabolic Model of Actinosynnema pretiosum ATCC 31280 and Its Application for Ansamitocin P-3 Production Improvement
Authors: Li Jian , Sun Renliang , Ning Xinjuan , Wang Xinran , Wang Zhuo
Published: July 2018

Actinosynnema pretiosum ATCC 31280 is the producer of antitumor agent ansamitocin P-3 (AP-3). Understanding of the AP-3 biosynthetic pathway and the whole metabolic network in A. pretiosum is important for the improvement of AP-3 titer. In this study, we reconstructed the first complete Genome-Scale Metabolic Model (GSMM) Aspm1282 for A. pretiosum ATCC 31280 based on the newly sequenced genome, with 87% reactions having definite functional annotation. The model has been validated by effectively predicting growth and the key genes for AP-3 biosynthesis. Then we built condition-specific models for an AP-3 high-yield mutant NXJ-24 by integrating Aspm1282 model with time-course transcriptome data. The changes of flux distribution reflect the metabolic shift from growth-related pathway to secondary metabolism pathway since the second day of cultivation. The AP-3 and methionine metabolisms were both enriched in active flux for the last two days, which uncovered the relationships among cell growth, activation of methionine metabolism, and the biosynthesis of AP-3. Furthermore, we identified four combinatorial gene modifications for overproducing AP-3 by in silico strain design, which improved the theoretical flux of AP-3 biosynthesis from 0.201 to 0.372 mmol/gDW/h. Upregulation of methionine metabolic pathway is a potential strategy to improve the production of AP-3.
Cellular Genomic Sites of Hepatitis B Virus DNA Integration
Authors: Budzinska Magdalena A. , Shackel Nicholas A. , Urban Stephan , Tu Thomas
Published: July 2018

Infection with the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is one of the strongest risk-factors for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC). One of the reported drivers of HCC is the integration of HBV DNA into the host cell genome, which may induce pro-carcinogenic pathways. These reported pathways include: induction of chromosomal instability; generation of insertional mutagenesis in key cancer-associated genes; transcription of downstream cancer-associated cellular genes; and/or formation of a persistent source of viral protein expression (particularly HBV surface and X proteins). The contribution of each of these specific mechanisms towards carcinogenesis is currently unclear. Here, we review the current knowledge of specific sites of HBV DNA integration into the host genome, which sheds light on these mechanisms. We give an overview of previously-used methods to detect HBV DNA integration and the enrichment of integration events in specific functional and structural cellular genomic sites. Finally, we posit a theoretical model of HBV DNA integration during disease progression and highlight open questions in the field.
Over a Thousand Years of Evolutionary History of Domestic Geese from Russian Archaeological Sites, Analysed Using Ancient DNA
Authors: Honka Johanna , Heino Matti T. , Kvist Laura , Askeyev Igor V. , Shaymuratova Dilyara N. , Askeyev Oleg V. , Askeyev Arthur O. , Heikkinen Marja E. , Searle Jeremy B. , Aspi Jouni
Published: July 2018

The European domestic goose is a widely farmed species known to have descended from the wild greylag goose (Anser anser). However, the evolutionary history of this domesticate is still poorly known. Ancient DNA studies have been useful for many species, but there has been little such work on geese. We have studied temporal genetic variation among domestic goose specimens excavated from Russian archaeological sites (4th–18th centuries) using a 204 base pair fragment of the mitochondrial control region. Specimens fell into three different genetic clades: the domestic D-haplogroup, the F-haplogroup that includes both wild and domestic geese, and a clade comprising another species, the taiga bean goose. Most of the subfossil geese carried typical domestic D-haplotypes. The domestication status of the geese carrying F-haplotypes is less certain, as the haplotypes identified were not present among modern domestic geese and could represent wild geese (misclassified as domestics), introgression from wild geese, or local domestication events. The bones of taiga bean goose were most probably misidentified as domestic goose but the domestication of bean goose or hybridization with domestic goose is also possible. Samples from the 4th to 10th century were clearly differentiated from the later time periods due to a haplotype that was found only in this early period, but otherwise no temporal or geographical variation in haplotype frequencies was apparent.
Heterolingualism and the Holocaust: Translating the Ineffable in Hélène Berr’s Journal
Authors: Munyard Stephanie Faye
Published: July 2018

By drawing attention to Hélène Berr’s use of foreign languages and literature as acts of translation, arguably one of the most prominent features of her Journal, this paper hopes to lay the foundation for a more sustained discussion of what translation means for victims of Nazi persecution, as well as of what translation does to their voices and for the continued transmission of their memories. The first section of this paper considers how Hélène Berr uses translation as a communicative aid to expression and argues that foreign languages, literary forms of expression, and also literature itself form part of a broader network of substitute vocabularies that function to help Berr to narrate, or even to translate, the ineffable. After considering the important role that heterolingualism and these substitute vocabularies play in Berr’s narrative, the paper raises some of the distinct challenges that linguistic plurality poses to translators of narratives of Nazi persecution. By drawing on, and comparing, examples from a textual analysis of the (2008) English version of Berr’s Journal, translated by David Bellos, and from the (2009) German edition, translated by Elisabeth Edl, and crucially through assessments of citations from the translators themselves, this paper highlights the significant role that translators, and the practice of translation, play in shaping memories of Nazi persecution.
Cultural Routes in Kynouria of Arcadia: Geospatial Database Design and Software Development for Web Mapping of the Spatio-Historical Information
Authors: Boukouvalas Lampros , Grigorakakis Gregory , Tsatsaris Andreas
Published: July 2018

On the occasion of Kynouria and in order to achieve the protection and projection of antiquities, a web-based model is proposed for highlighting individual monuments and archaeological sites, having in mind the historical and archaeological evidence of the region, the topography, the demographic profile, and the tourist infrastructure, and combining them with the development programs for cultural routes. Therefore, creating suitable databases and mapping the monuments in the area are key prerequisites of the process, as they contribute to an objective assessment of the current situation and to make rational decisions. In this frame, modern technology provides some important planning tools (GIS, GPS, and OMS) that allow for the recording and mapping of data, viewing the relationships between them in the area where they appear, and managing their projection. The complete study of Kynouria’s archaeological routes contains the implementation of a website using free or open-source software, which should include all the necessary procedures and the historical and archaeological information material (text, maps, and photographs).
The Rapid Degradation of Lambda-Cyhalothrin Makes Treated Vegetables Relatively Safe for Consumption
Authors: Djouaka Rousseau , Soglo Murielle Farrelle , Kusimo Michael Olugbenga , Adéoti Razack , Talom Armand , Zeukeng Francis , Paraïso Armand , Afari-Sefa Victor , Saethre May-Guri , Manyong Victor , Tamò Manuele , Waage Jeff , Lines Jo , Mahuku George
Published: July 2018

Lambda-cyhalothrin (λ-cyhalothrin) is the most commonly used pyrethroid insecticide for vegetable farming in Benin. This insecticide is misused and overused by farmers, and hence may pose health hazards to consumers. We monitored λ-cyhalothrin residues in lettuce and cabbage from farms at the market gates in Cotonou and Parakou using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis techniques. These residues were also monitored on samples directly from farms (on-farm sampling) for 14 days post-treatment. Potential factors such as photolysis and hydrolysis involved in λ-cyhalothrin degradation were also screened. Results revealed that the level of λ-cyhalothrin residue concentrations in lettuce from Houeyiho decreased from 4.2 mg/kg on Day 1 to about 0.2 mg/kg on Day 7. On Day 9, analyzed lettuces were all λ-cyhalothrin free. In contrast, even 14 days after treatment of cabbage from Bawera (Parakou), we still recorded the presence of λ-cyhalothrin residues in analyzed samples. For samples from market gates, λ-cyhalothrin residues were found in lettuce from two markets out of the nine surveyed in Cotonou. Interestingly, none of these contaminated samples had residues above the maximum residue limit for lettuce (MRL = 0.5 mg/kg). Similarly, in Parakou, samples from all five surveyed vegetable markets were contaminated with λ-cyhalothrin residues at concentrations below the MRL for cabbage (MRL = 0.2 mg/kg). We conclude that λ-cyhalothrin residues in lettuce and cabbage from farms and markets in Parakou and Cotonou are within the MRL, and hence are relatively safe for consumption.
Visits to Pediatric Clinics by Adult Patients: A Nationwide Survey in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Kang-Lung , Lynn An-Min , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Yang Ling-Yu , Chiang Shu-Chiung
Published: July 2018

Pediatricians are trained to provide non-surgical medical care to children. Improvements in medical treatments and surgical techniques have extended the survival of children with congenital diseases and chronic illnesses. Consequently, pediatricians may provide continuous medical service to their patients into adulthood. Meanwhile, as Taiwan’s birth rate has fallen to one of the lowest in the world, pediatricians are encountering growing competition. As a source of continued revenue, pediatricians could also provide medical care to adults with common diseases and patients with adult-onset chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern of adult ambulatory visits to pediatric clinics recorded by Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system during 2000 to 2011. From 1/500 sampling datasets, we found that adult ambulatory visits to pediatric clinics rose steadily and statistically significantly from 16% of total visits to pediatric clinics in 2000 to 32% in 2011. Analysis of the diagnoses associated with adult ambulatory visits to pediatric clinics indicated that the most common diagnoses for such patients at academic medical centers were chronic illnesses, including epilepsy, cardiac and circulatory congenital anomalies, and diabetes. Meanwhile, at physician clinics, airway infections/diseases and gastroenteritis were the most common diagnoses. In an era of low birth rates, our findings contribute to an evidence-based discussion and provide new information that may assist in healthcare policymaking.
Analysis of Historical Sources of Heavy Metals in Lake Taihu Based on the Positive Matrix Factorization Model
Authors: Li Yan , Mei Liping , Zhou Shenglu , Jia Zhenyi , Wang Junxiao , Li Baojie , Wang Chunhui , Wu Shaohua
Published: July 2018

Analysis of sediment grain sizes and heavy metal correlations in the western part of Lake Taihu shows that the grain size of the sediment is stable as a whole. With increasing depth, the grain size tends to decrease. Heavy metals such as Cr, Cd, Pd and Sr are strongly correlated and influence each other. Based on the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model, this study classified the origin of heavy metals in the sediments of western Lake Taihu into three major categories: Agricultural, industrial and geogenic. The contributions of the three heavy metal sources in each sample were analyzed and calculated. Overall, prior to the Chinese economic reform, the study area mainly practiced agriculture. The sources of heavy metals in the sediments were mostly of agricultural and geogenic origin, and remained relatively stable with contribution rates of 44.07 ± 11.84% (n = 30) and 35.67 ± 11.70% (n = 30), respectively. After the reform and opening up of China, as the economy experienced rapid development, industry and agriculture became the main sources of heavy metals in sediments, accounting for 56.99 ± 15.73% (n = 15) and 31.22 ± 14.31% (n = 15), respectively. The PMF model is convenient and efficient, and a good method to determine the origin of heavy metals in sediments.
Management of Leishmaniases in the Era of Climate Change in Morocco
Authors: Kholoud Kahime , Denis Sereno , Lahouari Bounoua , El Hidan Moulay Abdelmonaim , Souad Bouhout
Published: July 2018

The proliferation of vector-borne diseases are predicted to increase in a changing climate and Leishmaniases, as a vector-borne diseases, are re-emerging diseases in several regions of the world. In Morocco, during the last decade, a sharp increase in cutaneous leishmaniases cases has been reported. Nevertheless, in Morocco, leishmaniases are a major public health problem, and little interest was given to climate change impacts on the distribution and spread of these diseases. As insect-borne diseases, the incidence and distribution of leishmaniases are influenced by environmental changes, but also by several socio-economic and cultural factors. From a biological point of view, environmental variables have effects on the survival of insect vectors and mammalian reservoirs, which, in turn, affects transmission. Here, we highlight the effects of climate change in Morocco and discuss its consequences on the epidemiology of leishmaniases to identify challenges and define targeted recommendations to fight this disease.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis for Understanding Predator-Induced Polyphenism in the Water Flea Daphnia pulex
Authors: An Haein , Do Thinh Dinh , Jung Gila , Karagozlu Mustafa Zafer , Kim Chang-Bae
Published: July 2018

The crustacean Daphnia pulex is one of the best model organisms for studying inducible defense mechanisms due to their inducible morphology in response to the predator Chaoborus larvae. In this study, multiple developmental stages of D. pulex were exposed to C. flavicans larvae and transcriptome profiles of samples from late embryo to fifth instar were sequenced by the RNA-seq technique to investigate the genetic background underlying inducible defenses. In comparison, differentially expressed genes between defensive and normal morphs were identified, including 908 genes in late embryo, 1383 genes in the first-third (1–3) instar, and 1042 genes in fourth-fifth (4–5) instar. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that structural constituents of the cuticle and structural molecule activity genes were prominent up-regulated genes in late embryos. Down-regulated genes in late embryos and 1–3 instar comprised metabolic process, hydrolase activity, and peptidase activity gene classes. Pathway analysis indicated that small molecule neurotransmitter pathways were potentially involved in the development of inducible defenses. The characterization of genes and pathways in multiple developmental stages can improve our understanding of inducible defense responses of D. pulex to predation at the molecular level.
Cytosolic 5′-Nucleotidase II Silencing in a Human Lung Carcinoma Cell Line Opposes Cancer Phenotype with a Concomitant Increase in p53 Phosphorylation
Authors: Pesi Rossana , Petrotto Edoardo , Colombaioni Laura , Allegrini Simone , Garcia-Gil Mercedes , Camici Marcella , Jordheim Lars Petter , Tozzi Maria Grazia
Published: July 2018

Purine homeostasis is maintained by a purine cycle in which the regulated member is a cytosolic 5′-nucleotidase II (cN-II) hydrolyzing IMP and GMP. Its expression is particularly high in proliferating cells, indeed high cN-II activity or expression in hematological malignancy has been associated to poor prognosis and chemoresistance. Therefore, a strong interest has grown in developing cN-II inhibitors, as potential drugs alone or in combination with other compounds. As a model to study the effect of cN-II inhibition we utilized a lung carcinoma cell line (A549) in which the enzyme was partially silenced and its low activity conformation was stabilized through incubation with 2-deoxyglucose. We measured nucleotide content, reduced glutathione, activities of enzymes involved in glycolysis and Krebs cycle, protein synthesis, mitochondrial function, cellular proliferation, migration and viability. Our results demonstrate that high cN-II expression is associated with a glycolytic, highly proliferating phenotype, while silencing causes a reduction of proliferation, protein synthesis and migration ability, and an increase of oxidative performances. Similar results were obtained in a human astrocytoma cell line. Moreover, we demonstrate that cN-II silencing is concomitant with p53 phosphorylation, suggesting a possible involvement of this pathway in mediating some of cN-II roles in cancer cell biology.
Resveratrol Modulates SIRT1 and DNMT Functions and Restores LINE-1 Methylation Levels in ARPE-19 Cells under Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Maugeri Andrea , Barchitta Martina , Mazzone Maria Grazia , Giuliano Francesco , Basile Guido , Agodi Antonella
Published: July 2018

The role of epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis of retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), has been pending so far. Our study investigated the effect of oxidative stress and inflammation on DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) functions, as well as on long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) methylation, in human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells. Therefore, we evaluated whether treatment with resveratrol may modulate DNMT and SIRT1 functions and restore changes in LINE-1 methylation. Cells were treated with 25 mU/mL glucose oxidase (GOx) or 10 µg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mimic oxidative or inflammatory conditions, respectively. Oxidative stress decreased DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b, and SIRT1 expression (p-values < 0.05), as well as total DNMTs (−28.5%; p < 0.0001) and SIRT1 (−29.0%; p < 0.0001) activities. Similarly, inflammatory condition decreased DNMT1 and SIRT1 expression (p-values < 0.05), as well as total DNMTs (−14.9%; p = 0.007) and SIRT1 (−20.1%; p < 0.002) activities. Interestingly, GOx- and LPS-treated cells exhibited lower LINE-1 methylation compared to controls (p-values < 0.001). We also demonstrated that treatment with 10 μM resveratrol for 24 h counteracted the detrimental effect on DNMT and SIRT1 functions, and LINE-1 methylation, in cells under oxidative and inflammatory conditions. However, further studies should explore the perspectives of resveratrol as a suitable strategy for the prevention and/or treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
Vitamins D: Relationship between Structure and Biological Activity
Authors: Kutner Andrzej , Brown Geoffrey
Published: July 2018

The most active metabolite of vitamin D is 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, which is a central regulator of mineral homeostasis: excessive administration leads to hypercalcemia. Additionally, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is important to decision-making by cells, driving many cell types to growth arrest, differentiate and undergo apoptosis. 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 regulates gene transcription by binding to a single known receptor, the vitamin D receptor. Rapid intracellular signals are also elicited in vitro by 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 that are independent of transcription. There are many aspects of the multiple actions of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 that we do not fully understand. These include how a single receptor and provoked rapid events relate to the different actions of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, its calcemic action per se, and whether a large number of genes are activated directly, via the vitamin D receptor, or indirectly. A strategy to resolving these issues has been to generate synthetic analogues of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3: Some of these separate the anti-proliferative and calcemic actions of the parent hormone. Crystallography is important to understanding how differences between 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3- and analogue-provoked structural changes to the vitamin D receptor may underlie their different activity profiles. Current crystallographic resolution has not revealed such information. Studies of our new analogues have revealed the importance of the A-ring adopting the chair β-conformation upon interaction with the vitamin D receptor to receptor-affinity and biological activity. Vitamin D analogues are useful probes to providing a better understanding of the physiology of vitamin D.
Visual Saliency Based Just Noticeable Difference Estimation in DWT Domain
Authors: Wang Chunxing , Han Xiaoyue , Wan Wenbo , Li Jing , Sun Jiande , Xu Meiling
Published: July 2018

It has been known that human visual systems (HVSs) can be applied to describe the underlying masking properties for the image processing. In general, HVS can only perceive small changes in a scene when they are greater than the just noticeable distortion (JND) threshold. Recently, the cognitive resources of huma visual attention mechanisms are limited, which can not concentrate on all stimuli. To be specific, only more important stimuli will react from the mechanisms. When it comes to visual attention mechanisms, we need to introduce the visual saliency to model the human perception more accurately. In this paper, we presents a new wavelet-based JND estimation method that takes into account the interrelationship between visual saliency and JND threshold. In the experimental part, we verify it from both subjective and objective aspects. In addition, the experimental results show that extracting the saliency map of the image in the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) domain and then modulating its JND threshold is better than the non-modulated JND effect.
Knowledge Acquisition from Critical Annotations
Authors: Mészáros Tamás , Kiss Margit
Published: July 2018

Critical annotations are important knowledge sources when researching one’s oeuvre. They describe literary, historical, cultural, linguistic and other kinds of information written in natural languages. Acquiring knowledge from these notes is a complex task due to the limited natural language understanding capability of computerized tools. The aim of the research was to extract knowledge from existing annotations, and to develop new authoring methods to facilitate the knowledge acquisition. After structural and semantic analysis of critical annotations, authors developed a software tool that transforms existing annotations into a structured form that encodes referral and factual knowledge. Authors also propose a new method for authoring annotations based on controlled natural languages. This method ensures that annotations are semantically processable by computer programs and the authoring process remains simple for non-technical users.
Apple Image Recognition Multi-Objective Method Based on the Adaptive Harmony Search Algorithm with Simulation and Creation
Authors: Liu Liqun , Huo Jiuyuan
Published: July 2018

Aiming at the low recognition effect of apple images captured in a natural scene, and the problem that the OTSU algorithm has a single threshold, lack of adaptability, easily caused noise interference, and over-segmentation, an apple image recognition multi-objective method based on the adaptive harmony search algorithm with simulation and creation is proposed in this paper. The new adaptive harmony search algorithm with simulation and creation expands the search space to maintain the diversity of the solution and accelerates the convergence of the algorithm. In the search process, the harmony tone simulation operator is used to make each harmony tone evolve towards the optimal harmony individual direction to ensure the global search ability of the algorithm. Despite no improvement in the evolution, the harmony tone creation operator is used to make each harmony tone to stay away from the current optimal harmony individual for extending the search space to maintain the diversity of solutions. The adaptive factor of the harmony tone was used to restrain random searching of the two operators to accelerate the convergence ability of the algorithm. The multi-objective optimization recognition method transforms the apple image recognition problem collected in the natural scene into a multi-objective optimization problem, and uses the new adaptive harmony search algorithm with simulation and creation as the image threshold search strategy. The maximum class variance and maximum entropy are chosen as the objective functions of the multi-objective optimization problem. Compared with HS, HIS, GHS, and SGHS algorithms, the experimental results showed that the improved algorithm has higher a convergence speed and accuracy, and maintains optimal performance in high-dimensional, large-scale harmony memory. The proposed multi-objective optimization recognition method obtains a set of non-dominated threshold solution sets, which is more flexible than the OTSU algorithm in the opportunity of threshold selection. The selected threshold has better adaptive characteristics and has good image segmentation results.
Quercetin-3-oleate
Authors: Carullo Gabriele , Aiello Francesca
Published: July 2018

Polyphenols are well-known health promoting agents, but they have some limitations due to their spontaneous oxidation. This evidence has limited their use as drugs in recent years. In this field, several chemical modifications have been proposed to overcome these restrictions; among these, esterification seems to be the preferred modification. Ester derivatives may be able to reduce the bioavailability problems connected to polyphenols. On the other hand, the presence of esterase enzymes in the body guarantees ester hydrolysis, which in turn frees the two molecules that make it up. Lipase-catalyzed esterifications gave birth to several derivatives of flavonoids glycosides, in green conditions. In this short paper, pancreatic porcine lipase was firstly used as a cheap bio-catalyst, to synthesize oleoyl derivatives of quercetin in aglycone form. The results demonstrated how the enzyme is able to promote a regioselective acylation on C-3 position, with high yields and easy purification processes.
Different-Shaped Ultrafine MoNbTaW HEA Powders Prepared via Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Tong Yonggang , Qi Peibu , Liang Xiubing , Chen Yongxiong , Hu Yongle , Hu Zhenfeng
Published: July 2018

Different-shaped ultrafine MoNbTaW high-entropy alloy powders were firstly prepared by a convenient mechanical alloying method. The phase composition and microstructure of the powders were characterized. The powders are ultrafine with nano-sized grains and a good homogeneous microstructure. All the powders have a single body-centered cubic solid solution phase and form the high-entropy alloy during mechanical alloying. These powders with different shapes are quite attractive for developing high-performance MoNbTaW high-entropy alloy bulk and coatings combined with a following sintering, spraying, or additive manufacturing technique.
Evaluation of Residual Compressive Strength and Behavior of Corrosion-Damaged Carbon Steel Tubular Members
Authors: Ahn Jin-Hee , Jeon Seok-Hyeon , Jeong Young-Soo , Cho Kwang-Il , Huh Jungwon
Published: July 2018

Local corrosion damage of steel structures can occur due to damage to the paint-coated surface of structures. Such damage can affect the structural behavior and performance of steel structures. Compressive loading tests were, thus, carried out in this study to examine the effect of local corrosion damage on the structural behavior and strength of tubular members. Artificial cross-sectional damage on the surface of the tubular members was introduced to reflect the actual corroded damage under exposure to a corrosion environment. The compressive failure modes and compressive strengths of the tubular members were compared according to the localized cross-sectional damage. The compressive loading test results showed that the compressive strengths were affected by the damaged width within a certain range. In addition, finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted with various parameters to determine the effects of the damage on the failure mode and compressive strength of the stub column. From the FEA results, the compressive strength was decreased proportionally with the equivalent cross-sectional area ratio and damaged volume ratio.
Performance Evaluation of Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting System on Operating Rolling Stock
Authors: Ahn Dahoon , Choi Kyungwho
Published: July 2018

During rolling stock operation, various kinds of energy such as vibration, heat, and train-induced wind are dissipated. The amount of energy dissipation cannot be overlooked when a heavy railroad vehicle operates at high speed. Therefore, if the wasted energy is effectively harvested, it can be used to power components like low power sensor nodes. This study aims to review a method of collecting waste heat, caused by the axle bearing of bogie in a rolling stock. A thermoelectric module (TEM) was used to convert the temperature gradient between the surface of the axle bearing housing and the outdoor air into electric energy. In this study, the output performance by temperature difference in the TEM was lab-tested and maximized by computational fluid analysis of the cooling fins. The optimized thermoelectric energy harvesting system (TEHS) was designed and applied on a rolling stock to analyze the power-generating performance under operation. When the rolling stock was operated for approximately 57 min including an interval of maximum speed of 300 km/h, the maximum open circuit voltage was measured at approximately 0.4 V. Based on this study, the system is expected to be utilized as a self-powered independent monitoring system if applied to a low-power sensor node in the future.
Physicochemical Model of Formation of Gold-Bearing Magnetite-Chlorite-Carbonate Rocks at the Karabash Ultramafic Massif (Southern Urals, Russia)
Authors: Murzin Valery , Chudnenko Konstantin , Palyanova Galina , Kissin Aleksandr , Varlamov Dmitry
Published: July 2018

We present a physicochemical model for the formation of magnetite-chlorite-carbonate rocks with copper gold in the Karabash ultramafic massif in the Southern Urals, Russia. The model was constructed based on the formation geotectonics of the Karabash massif, features of spatial distribution of metasomatically altered rocks in their central part, geochemical characteristics and mineral composition of altered ultramafic rocks, data on the pressure and temperature conditions of formation, and composition of the ore-forming fluids. Magnetite-chlorite-carbonate rocks were formed by the hydrothermal filling of the free space, whereas chloritolites were formed by the metasomatism of the serpentinites. As the source of the petrogenic and ore components, we considered rocks (serpentinites, gabbro, and limestones), deep magmatogenic fluids, probably mixed with metamorphogenic fluids released during dehydration and deserpentinization of rocks in the lower crust, and meteoric waters. The model supports the involvement of sodium chloride-carbon dioxide fluids extracting ore components (Au, Ag, and Cu) from deep-seated rocks and characterized by the ratio of ore elements corresponding to Clarke values in ultramafic rocks. The model calculations show that copper gold can also be deposited during serpentinization of deep-seated olivine-rich rocks and ore fluids raised by the tectonic flow to a higher hypsometric level. The results of our research allow predicting copper gold-rich ore occurrences in ultramafic massifs.
E-Configuration Improves Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Capacities of Resveratrols
Authors: Lin Jian , Li Xican , Chen Ban , Wei Gang , Chen Dongfeng
Published: July 2018

The antioxidant and cytoprotective capacities of E-resveratrol and Z-resveratrol were compared using chemical and cellular assays. Chemical assays revealed that the two isomers were dose-dependently active in •O2−-scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), Cu2+-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), 2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide radical (PTIO•)-scavenging (pH 7.4 and pH 4.5), and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH•)-scavenging assays. The cellular assay indicated that the two isomers could also increase cell viabilities. However, quantitative analyses suggested that E-resveratrol exhibited stronger effects than Z-resveratrol in all chemical and cellular assays. Finally, the conformations of E-resveratrol and Z-resveratrol were analyzed. It can be concluded that both E-resveratrol and Z-resveratrol can promote redox-related pathways to exhibit antioxidant action and consequently protect bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (bmMSCs) from oxidative damage. These pathways include electron transfer (ET) and H+-transfer, and likely include hydrogen atom transfer (HAT). The E-configuration, however, improves antioxidant and cytoprotective capacities of resveratrols. The detrimental effect of the Z-configuration may be attributed to the non-planar preferential conformation, where two dihedral angles block the extension of the conjugative system.
Rapid Investigation and Screening of Bioactive Components in Simo Decoction via LC-Q-TOF-MS and UF-HPLC-MD Methods
Authors: He Yingjie , Cheng Pi , Wang Wei , Yan Sien , Tang Qi , Liu Dongbo , Xie Hongqi
Published: July 2018

Simo decoction (SMD), as a traditional medicine, is widely used in the treatment of gastrointestinal dysmotility in China. In this study, a combined method of liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS) and ultrafiltration high-performance liquid chromatography molecular docking (UF-HPLC-MD) was efficiently employed to identify and screen bioactive ingredients in SMD. Ninety-four major constituents were identified or tentatively characterized by comparing their retention times and mass spectra with standards or literature data by using LC-Q-TOF-MS, and the ascription of those compounds were classified for the first time. Among them, 13 bioactive ingredients, including norisoboldine, eriocitrin, neoeriocitrin, narirutin, hesperidin, naringin, neohesperidin, hesperitin-7-O-glucoside, linderane, poncirin, costunolide, nobiletin, and tangeretin, were primarily identified as the human serum albumin (HSA) ligands at a range of docking scores from −29.7 to −40.6 kJ/mol by UF-HPLC-MD. The results indicate the systematic identification and screening of HSA ligands from Simo decoction guided by LC-Q-TOF-MS and UF-HPLC-MD represents a feasible and efficient method that could be extended for the identification and screening of other bioactive ingredients from natural medicines.
Effect of Tea Catechins on Influenza Infection and the Common Cold with a Focus on Epidemiological/Clinical Studies
Authors: Furushima Daisuke , Ide Kazuki , Yamada Hiroshi
Published: July 2018

Influenza and the common cold are acute infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. Influenza is a severe disease that is highly infectious and can progress to life-threating diseases such as pneumonia or encephalitis when aggravated. Due to the fact that influenza infections and common colds spread easily via droplets and contact, public prevention measures, such as hand washing and facial masks, are recommended for influenza prophylaxis. Experimental studies have reported that tea catechins inhibited influenza viral adsorption and suppressed replication and neuraminidase activity. They were also effective against some cold viruses. In addition, tea catechins enhance immunity against viral infection. Although the antiviral activity of tea catechins has been demonstrated, the clinical evidence to support their utility remains inconclusive. Since the late 1990s, several epidemiological studies have suggested that the regular consumption of green tea decreases influenza infection rates and some cold symptoms, and that gargling with tea catechin may protect against the development of influenza infection. This review briefly summarizes the effect of tea catechins on influenza infection and the common cold with a focus on epidemiological/clinical studies, and clarifies the need for further studies to confirm their clinical efficacy.