bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Novo Structural Determination of the Oligosaccharide Structure of Hemocyanins from Molluscs
Authors: Dolashka Pavlina , Daskalova Asya , Dolashki Aleksandar , Voelter Wolfgang
Published: October 2020

A number of studies have shown that glycosylation of proteins plays diverse functions in the lives of organisms, has crucial biological and physiological roles in pathogen–host interactions, and is involved in a large number of biological events in the immune system, and in virus and bacteria recognition. The large amount of scientific interest in glycoproteins of molluscan hemocyanins is due not only to their complex quaternary structures, but also to the great diversity of their oligosaccharide structures with a high carbohydrate content (2–9%). This great variety is due to their specific monosaccharide composition and different side chain composition. The determination of glycans and glycopeptides was performed with the most commonly used methods for the analysis of biomolecules, including peptides and proteins, including Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation–Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF-TOF), Liquid Chromatography - Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (LC/ESI-MS), Liquid Chromatography (LC-Q-trap-MS/MS) or Nano- Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (nano-ESI-MS) and others. The molluscan hemocyanins have complex carbohydrate structures with predominant N-linked glycans. Of interest are identified structures with methylated hexoses and xyloses arranged at different positions in the carbohydrate moieties of molluscan hemocyanins. Novel acidic glycan structures with specific glycosylation positions, e.g., hemocyanins that enable a deeper insight into the glycosylation process, were observed in Rapana venosa, Helix lucorum, and Haliotis tuberculata. Recent studies demonstrate that glycosylation plays a crucial physiological role in the immunostimulatory and therapeutic effect of glycoproteins. The remarkable diversity of hemocyanin glycan content is an important feature of their immune function and provides a new concept in the antibody–antigen interaction through clustered carbohydrate epitopes.
Biocompatibility of Blank, Post-Processed and Coated 3D Printed Resin Structures with Electrogenic Cells
Authors: Hart Cacie , Didier Charles M. , Sommerhage Frank , Rajaraman Swaminathan
Published: October 2020

The widespread adaptation of 3D printing in the microfluidic, bioelectronic, and Bio-MEMS communities has been stifled by the lack of investigation into the biocompatibility of commercially available printer resins. By introducing an in-depth post-printing treatment of these resins, their biocompatibility can be dramatically improved up to that of a standard cell culture vessel (99.99%). Additionally, encapsulating resins that are less biocompatible with materials that are common constituents in biosensors further enhances the biocompatibility of the material. This investigation provides a clear pathway toward developing fully functional and biocompatible 3D printed biosensor devices, especially for interfacing with electrogenic cells, utilizing benchtop-based microfabrication, and post-processing techniques.
POLG1-Related Epilepsy: Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Findings
Authors: Specchio Nicola , Pietrafusa Nicola , Calabrese Costanza , Trivisano Marina , Pepi Chiara , de Palma Luca , Ferretti Alessandro , Curatolo Paolo , Vigevano Federico
Published: October 2020

Background: The clinical spectrum associated with POLG1 gene mutations ranges from non-syndromic epilepsy or mild isolated neurological signs to neurodegenerative disorders. Our aim was to review diagnostic findings, therapeutic approaches and outcomes of reported cases of epilepsy related to POLG1 mutation. Methods: The articles for review were identified through a systematic research on PubMed and EMBASE databases from January 2003 to April 2020, searching for the terms “Epilepsy AND POLG OR polymerase gamma,” OR “POLG1”. Results: Forty-eight articles were selected for review, which included 195 patients. Two main peaks of age at epilepsy onset were found: at ages 1 and 13 years. The most frequent seizure type was myoclonic. The occurrence of Status Epilepticus was reported in 46.4% of cases. Epileptiform and slow abnormalities were most frequently seen over occipital regions. Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed increased T2 signal intensities in thalamic regions. Genetic analysis revealed a prevalence of A467T, W748S and G848S (74.2% of patients) mutations. Survival at 5 years was estimated at very low levels (30.2% of patients). Conclusion: In this review, we included cases with both pediatric and adult epilepsy onset. The analysis of data regarding prognosis showed that survival is related to age at onset of epilepsy.
Cutting the Brakes on Ras—Cytoplasmic GAPs as Targets of Inactivation in Cancer
Authors: Bellazzo Arianna , Collavin Licio
Published: October 2020

The Ras pathway is frequently deregulated in cancer, actively contributing to tumor development and progression. Oncogenic activation of the Ras pathway is commonly due to point mutation of one of the three Ras genes, which occurs in almost one third of human cancers. In the absence of Ras mutation, the pathway is frequently activated by alternative means, including the loss of function of Ras inhibitors. Among Ras inhibitors, the GTPase-Activating Proteins (RasGAPs) are major players, given their ability to modulate multiple cancer-related pathways. In fact, most RasGAPs also have a multi-domain structure that allows them to act as scaffold or adaptor proteins, affecting additional oncogenic cascades. In cancer cells, various mechanisms can cause the loss of function of Ras inhibitors; here, we review the available evidence of RasGAP inactivation in cancer, with a specific focus on the mechanisms. We also consider extracellular inputs that can affect RasGAP levels and functions, implicating that specific conditions in the tumor microenvironment can foster or counteract Ras signaling through negative or positive modulation of RasGAPs. A better understanding of these conditions might have relevant clinical repercussions, since treatments to restore or enhance the function of RasGAPs in cancer would help circumvent the intrinsic difficulty of directly targeting the Ras protein.
The Signaling Duo CXCL12 and CXCR4: Chemokine Fuel for Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis
Authors: Zielińska Karolina A. , Katanaev Vladimir L.
Published: October 2020

The CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling pathway has emerged in the recent years as a key player in breast cancer tumorigenesis. This pathway controls many aspects of breast cancer development including cancer cell proliferation, motility and metastasis to all target organs. Moreover, the CXCL12/CXCR4 cascade affects both immune and stromal cells, creating tumor-supporting microenvironment. In this review, we examine state-of-the-art knowledge about detrimental roles of the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling, discuss its therapeutic potential and suggest further research directions beneficial both for basic research and personalized medicine in breast cancer.
Hypothyroidism Is a Predictive Factor for Better Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Lenvatinib Therapy
Authors: Shomura Masako , Okabe Haruka , Sato Emi , Fukai Kota , Shiraishi Koichi , Hirose Shunji , Tsuruya Kota , Arase Yoshitaka , Anzai Kazuya , Kagawa Tatehiro
Published: October 2020

Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing molecular targeted therapy often experience non-negligible adverse events (AEs). Paradoxically, certain AEs are reportedly associated with a good prognosis. We aimed to identify factors predictive of treatment duration and overall survival (OS) in patients with HCC undergoing lenvatinib therapy. Forty-six consecutive patients with advanced HCC who received lenvatinib therapy from April 2018 to November 2019 were prospectively followed until November 2019. Treatment efficacy was assessed according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors for 2–3 months after therapy initiation. The disease control rate (DCR) was defined as the percentage of patients with a complete response, partial response, or stable disease. The DCR was 65.2%, with a median survival of 10.2 months. Grade 2/3 hypoalbuminemia resulted in shorter treatment duration. Factors predictive of longer OS were a Child-Pugh score of 5 at baseline and the occurrence of Grade 2/3 hypothyroidism. Conversely, Grade 2/3 hypoalbuminemia was associated with a poorer prognosis. An AE of Grade 2/3 hypothyroidism was associated with a better prognosis in patients receiving lenvatinib treatment for advanced HCC. Continuing anticancer therapy with appropriate thyroid hormone replacement may contribute to longer OS.
Comprehensive Analysis of DNA Methylation and Prediction of Response to NeoadjuvantTherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: do Canto Luisa Matos , Barros-Filho Mateus Camargo , Rainho Cláudia Aparecida , Marinho Diogo , Kupper Bruna Elisa Catin , Begnami Maria Dirlei Ferreira de Souza , Scapulatempo-Neto Cristovam , Havelund Birgitte Mayland , Lindebjerg Jan , Marchi Fabio Albuquerque , Baumbach Jan , Aguiar Jr. Samuel , Rogatto Silvia Regina
Published: October 2020

The treatment for locally advanced rectal carcinomas (LARC) is based on neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and surgery, which results in pathological complete response (pCR) in up to 30% of patients. Since epigenetic changes may influence response to therapy, we aimed to identify DNA methylation markers predictive of pCR in LARC patients treated with nCRT. We used high-throughput DNA methylation analysis of 32 treatment-naïve LARC biopsies and five normal rectal tissues to explore the predictive value of differentially methylated (DM) CpGs. External validation was carried out with The Cancer Genome Atlas-Rectal Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-READ 99 cases). A classifier based on three-CpGs DM (linked to OBSL1, GPR1, and INSIG1 genes) was able to discriminate pCR from incomplete responders with high sensitivity and specificity. The methylation levels of the selected CpGs confirmed the predictive value of our classifier in 77 LARCs evaluated by bisulfite pyrosequencing. Evaluation of external datasets (TCGA-READ, GSE81006, GSE75546, and GSE39958) reproduced our results. As the three CpGs were mapped near to regulatory elements, we performed an integrative analysis in regions associated with predicted cis-regulatory elements. A positive and inverse correlation between DNA methylation and gene expression was found in two CpGs. We propose a novel predictive tool based on three CpGs potentially useful for pretreatment screening of LARC patients and guide the selection of treatment modality.
Combination Therapy of High-Dose Rabeprazole Plus Metronomic Capecitabine in Advanced Gastro-Intestinal Cancer: A Randomized Phase II Trial
Authors: Roberto Michela , Romiti Adriana , Mazzuca Federica , Milano Annalisa , D’Antonio Chiara , Lionetto Luana , Falcone Rosa , Strigari Lidia , Simmaco Maurizio , Fais Stefano , Marchetti Paolo
Published: October 2020

Background: In recent years, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been investigated at high-dose to modulate tumor microenvironment acidification thus restoring chemotherapeutic sensitivity. This is the first trial to study activity and safety of repurposing high dose rabeprazole combined with metronomic capecitabine (mCAP). Methods: A phase II study in which patients with gastrointestinal cancer, refractory to standard treatments, who had a life expectancy >3 months, were blind randomized 1:1 to mCAP, 1500 mg/daily, continuously with or without rabeprazole 1.5 mg/kg bid, three days a week. The primary endpoint was 3-months progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary endpoints were clinical benefit (CB) and overall survival (OS). Safety and plasma concentrations of capecitabine and its metabolites (5′-DFUR and 5-FU) were also evaluated. Results: Sixty-seven (median age 69 years; 63% male; 84% colorectal cancer, 76% ECOG-PS ≤ 1; 84% pretreated with two or more lines of chemotherapy) out of 90 patients screened for eligibility, were randomized to receive mCAP+rabeprazole (n = 32) vs. mCAP (n = 35). All patients were evaluable for response. No significant difference between mCAP+rabeprazole vs. mCAP, in terms of 3-months PFS rate (HR = 1.43, 95%CI 0.53–3.85; p = 0.477), median PFS (HR = 1.22, 95%CI 0.75–2.00, p = 0.420), CB (RR = 0.85, 95%CI 0.29–2.44; p = 0.786) and median OS (HR = 0.89, 95%CI 0.54–1.48; p = 0.664) was observed. However, a 3-year OS rate of 10% and 12% was reported in the mCAP-rabeprazole and mCAP groups, respectively. Overall, no grade 3 or 4 toxicity occurred but grade 1 or 2 adverse event of any type were more frequently in the mCAP+rabeprazole group than in the mCAP (OR 2.83, 95%CI 1.03–7.79; p = 0.043). Finally, there was not statistically significant difference in the plasma concentration of capecitabine and its metabolites between the two groups. Conclusions: Although the adjunct of high dose rabeprazole to mCAP was not shown to affect mCAP activity, as PPI are being investigated worldwide as drugs to be repositioned in cancer treatment and also considering the limited sample size as well as the favorable safety profile of the combination in the present study, further clinical investigations are desirable.
DNA Methylation and Breast Cancer Risk: An Epigenome-Wide Study of Normal Breast Tissue and Blood
Authors: Ennour-Idrissi Kaoutar , Dragic Dzevka , Issa Elissar , Michaud Annick , Chang Sue-Ling , Provencher Louise , Durocher Francine , Diorio Caroline
Published: October 2020

Differential DNA methylation is a potential marker of breast cancer risk. Few studies have investigated DNA methylation changes in normal breast tissue and were largely confounded by cancer field effects. To detect methylation changes in normal breast epithelium that are causally associated with breast cancer occurrence, we used a nested case–control study design based on a prospective cohort of patients diagnosed with a primary invasive hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Twenty patients diagnosed with a contralateral breast cancer (CBC) were matched (1:1) with 20 patients who did not develop a CBC on relevant risk factors. Differentially methylated Cytosine-phosphate-Guanines (CpGs) and regions in normal breast epithelium were identified using an epigenome-wide DNA methylation assay and robust linear regressions. Analyses were replicated in two independent sets of normal breast tissue and blood. We identified 7315 CpGs (FDR < 0.05), 52 passing strict Bonferroni correction (p < 1.22 × 10−7) and 43 mapping to known genes involved in metabolic diseases with significant enrichment (p < 0.01) of pathways involving fatty acids metabolic processes. Four differentially methylated genes were detected in both site-specific and regions analyses (LHX2, TFAP2B, JAKMIP1, SEPT9), and three genes overlapped all three datasets (POM121L2, KCNQ1, CLEC4C). Once validated, the seven differentially methylated genes distinguishing women who developed and who did not develop a sporadic breast cancer could be used to enhance breast cancer risk-stratification, and allow implementation of targeted screening and preventive strategies that would ultimately improve breast cancer prognosis.
Overcoming Challenges in Street Art Murals Conservation: A Comparative Study on Cleaning Approach and Methodology
Authors: Bertasa Moira , Ricci Chiara , Scarcella Arianna , Zenucchini Francesca , Pellis Giulia , Croveri Paola , Scalarone Dominique
Published: October 2020

Street art, and its preservation, has become one of the most discussed and still open topics in the field of conservation. The absence of a sharable conservation protocol in terms of cleaning and protection is a delicate subject to deal with. The cleaning of contemporary murals and urban artworks stained by graphical vandalism is a real challenge, due to the similar chemical composition of the materials involved. In this work two different approaches to the cleaning of street art murals, namely chemical methods and laser cleaning, are reported and compared with the aim of identifying a suitable conservation practice. Ad hoc concrete mock-ups coated with a paint layer and a simulated vandalism on top have been prepared and used for the testing and analytical assessment of the cleaning procedures.
Special Issue: “Advanced Hybrid Coatings and Thin Films for Surface Functionalization”
Authors: Deflorian Flavio
Published: October 2020

Many technologically advanced materials and components are characterized by surfaces with special coatings. The role of the coatings is not only the traditional one (protection and aesthetics), but, in addition, new advanced functions are required, such as special mechanical, chemical, electrical, and optical functions. A wide range of coating technologies offer the possibility to produce advanced and selected surface properties, such as hydrophobic or hydrophilic coatings, non-stick and easy-to-clean coatings, anti-freeze or anti-fogging coatings, scratch-resistant coatings, and anti-microbial coatings, etc. In particular, organic–inorganic hybrid coatings are very promising materials for new coatings functionalization and applications in many different industrial fields. The aim of this Special Issue is to provide an update of the most advanced research in the design, synthesis, and development of hybrid coatings/thin films, and their applications for surface functionalization, showing the innovation trends and promoting further research in this area.
Poor Correlation between Diamondback Terrapin Population Estimates Using Two New Estimation Methods
Authors: Prowant Lisa , Burke Russell L.
Published: October 2020

Reliable estimates of animal and plant population sizes are necessary to track trends in populations through time. Diamondback terrapins are an ecologically unique keystone species that are globally declining. Conservation efforts for this species rely on accurate estimates of population sizes; however, diamondback terrapin population size estimates are difficult to measure with precision or accuracy. Terrapin collection methods are often labor-, time-, and cost-intensive. The present study compares two recently developed rapid assessment methods for measuring diamondback terrapin abundances. Since mark–recapture or similar data were unavailable, we could not test the accuracy of either method directly; instead, we compared the two methods. If the methods produce similar estimates of terrapin population size, this would increase confidence in these methods. We measured the abundance of diamondback terrapins at 77 sites in Long Island, New York, using headcount surveys and surveys of parasitic trematodes that can be used as a proxy for terrapin abundance. We used random forest analyses to test whether the variation in diamondback terrapin abundance measured using headcount surveys could be explained by either the prevalence or the abundance of trematode parasites. The most variation explained by any of the models was 7.77%, indicating that trematode prevalence and abundance could not explain the variation in terrapin abundance measured using headcounts. This poor correlation between terrapin census methods indicates that one, or both, of the census measures are inaccurate, at least in the habitats found across Long Island, NY. A technique that accurately estimates the abundance of diamondback terrapin populations is critical to understanding their population fluctuations and trends. The only way to evaluate the status of the species is to have information on population numbers and trends across the species’ range, which might not be possible without a more accessible survey method.
VIP-2 —High-Sensitivity Tests on the Pauli Exclusion Principle for Electrons
Authors: Piscicchia Kristian , Marton Johann , Bartalucci Sergio , Bazzi Massimiliano , Bertolucci Sergio , Bragadireanu Mario , Cargnelli Michael , Clozza Alberto , Del Grande Raffaele , De Paolis Luca , Fiorini Carlo , Guaraldo Carlo , Iliescu Mihail , Laubenstein Matthias , Miliucci Marco , Milotti Edoardo , Napolitano Fabrizio , Pichler Andreas , Scordo Alessandro , Shi Hexi , Sirghi Diana Laura , Sirghi Florin , Sperandio Laura , Doce Oton Vazquez , Zmeskal Johann , Curceanu Catalina
Published: October 2020

The VIP collaboration is performing high sensitivity tests of the Pauli Exclusion Principle for electrons in the extremely low cosmic background environment of the underground Gran Sasso National Laboratory INFN (Italy). In particular, the VIP-2 Open Systems experiment was conceived to put strong constraints on those Pauli Exclusion Principle violation models which respect the so-called Messiah–Greenberg superselection rule. The experimental technique consists of introducing a direct current in a copper conductor, and searching for the X-rays emission coming from a forbidden atomic transition from the L shell to the K shell of copper when the K shell is already occupied by two electrons. The analysis of the first three months of collected data (in 2018) is presented. The obtained result represents the best bound on the Pauli Exclusion Principle violation probability which fulfills the Messiah–Greenberg rule.
The Effects of Pandemic Event on the Stock Exchange of Thailand
Authors: Panyagometh Kamphol
Published: October 2020

The unprecedented global pandemic of COVID-19 has greatly impacted the stock market in terms of both price reactions and the influences of volatility. Using a sample of 46 stocks listed in the Stock Exchange of Thailand, in this paper, an event study technique is developed considering idiosyncratic volatility to analyze the reactions of stock prices and market volatility in Thailand during the period of the pandemic. The empirical results suggest that most securities in the Thai stock market have been adversely affected by the pandemic, as reflected in the abnormal returns compared to the period before the COVID-19 outbreak. This is mainly attributable to the curtailed economic activities induced by the pandemic as well as policy responses such as social distancing, quarantine and temporary market shutdown. Nevertheless, stocks in different sectors have been shown to have varied in terms of price responses, as some businesses may have benefitted from the pandemic. In terms of market volatility, the cumulated abnormal volatility (CAV) calculated in the paper suggests that volatility in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) was significantly higher during the event window of COVID-19.
Analysis of the Correlation between Combustion Products in Biomass Thermal Power Plant Using Association Rule Mining
Authors: Igić Saša , Bošković Dragana , Vujkov Barbara , Igić Nemanja , Janić Todor , Jeličić Dalibor , Ristić Vladica , Dumnić Boris
Published: October 2020

The biomass combustion process is inevitably accompanied by the emission of pollutant gasses. This paper gives a comprehensive analysis of the external variables and combustion products of the biomass plant. The analyzed data were collected from 18 MWt boiler in combined heat and power plant Sremska Mitrovica over a period of four months. The correlations between the recorded data were determined using a unique methodology, which is based on association rule mining. The results of the study can be further used for the reduction of the harmful combustion products, as well as for the optimization of the operation process.
Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Supported Pd(II) Complexes: A Supramolecular Approach towards Single-Ion Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts
Authors: Savastano Matteo , Passaponti Maurizio , Giurlani Walter , Lari Leonardo , Bianchi Antonio , Innocenti Massimo
Published: October 2020

Lowering the platinum group metal content of oxygen reduction reaction catalysts is among the most prevalent research focuses in the field. This target is herein approached through supported Pd(II) complexes. Starting from a commercial macrocycle, a new ligand is synthesized, its solution behavior and binding properties briefly explored (potentiometry, UV-Vis) and then used to prepare a new catalyst. A supramolecular approach is used in order to obtain homogeneous decoration of carbon nanotubes surfaces, fostering novel possibilities to access single-ion active sites. The novel catalyst is characterized through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy and its promising oxygen reduction reaction performance is evaluated via rotating ring-disk electrode and rotating disk electrode in half-cell studies.
Particle Swarm Optimization-Based Secure Computation Efficiency Maximization in a Power Beacon-Assisted Wireless-Powered Mobile Edge Computing NOMA System
Authors: Garcia Carla E. , Camana Mario R. , Koo Insoo
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we aim to provide reliable user connectivity and enhanced security for computation task offloading. Physical layer security is studied in a wireless-powered non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) mobile edge computing (MEC) system with a nonlinear energy-harvesting (EH) user and a power beacon (PB) in the presence of an eavesdropper. To further provide a friendly environment resource allocation design, wireless power transfer (WPT) is applied. The secure computation efficiency (SCE) problem is solved by jointly optimizing the transmission power, the time allocations for energy transfer, the computation time, and the central processing unit (CPU) frequency in the NOMA-enabled MEC system. The problem is non-convex and challenging to solve because of the complexity of the objective function in meeting constraints that ensure the required quality of service, such as the minimum value of computed bits, limitations on total energy consumed by users, maximum CPU frequency, and minimum harvested energy and computation offloading times. Therefore, in this paper, a low-complexity particle swarm optimization (PSO)-based algorithm is proposed to solve this optimization problem. For comparison purposes, time division multiple access and fully offloading baseline schemes are investigated. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed approach over baseline schemes.
Techno-Economic Optimization Analysis of an Autonomous Photovoltaic Power System for a Shoreline Electrode Station of HVDC Link: Case Study of an Electrode Station on the Small Island of Stachtoroi for the Attica–Crete Interconnection
Authors: Deligianni Panagiota M. , Tsekouras George J. , Tsirekis Costas D. , Kontargyri Vassiliki T. , Kanellos Fotis D. , Kontaxis Panagiotis A.
Published: October 2020

A lot of autonomous power systems have been designed and operated with different power levels and with special requirements for climatic conditions, availability, operation/maintenance cost, fuel consumption, environmental impacts, etc. In this paper a novel design of an autonomous power system with photovoltaic panels and electrochemical batteries for a shoreline electrode station is analyzed. This station will be constructed on the small island of Stachtoroi for the new high voltage direct current (HVDC) link of Attica–Crete in Greece. The general guidelines of the International Council on Large Electric Systems (CIGRE) and of the International Electrotechnical Committee (IEC) for the power system of lighting and auxiliary loads for these HVDC stations are supplied from the medium voltage or the low voltage distribution network, whereas they do not take into account the criticality of this interconnection, which will practically be the unique power facility of Crete island. The significance of Crete power system interconnection demands an increased reliability level for the power sources, similar to military installations and hospital surgeries. In this research a basic electrical installation design methodology is presented. First, the autonomous photovoltaic power system with the energy storage system (ESS) consisting of electrochemical batteries is preliminary designed according to the relative bibliography. The station power and energy consumption are analytically determined taking into consideration the daily temperature variation annually. Afterwards, a techno-economic optimization process based on a sensitivity analysis is formed modifying the size/power of photovoltaic panels (PVs), the type and the energy capacity of the batteries taking into consideration the operation cycle of PVs—batteries charge and discharge and the battery ageing based on the relationship between battery cycles—the depth of discharge, the daily solar variation per month, the installation cost of PVs and batteries, the respective maintenance cost, etc., while the reliability criteria of expected loss of load power and of load energy are satisfied. Using the proposed methodology the respective results are significantly improved in comparison with the preliminary autonomous power system design or the connection with the distribution power system.
Study on the Hybrid Cooling of the Flame Tube in a Small Triple-Swirler Combustor
Authors: Zhang Jingyu , Sun Yuqi , Li Ji , He Xiaomin
Published: October 2020

An experimental and numerical investigation is conducted to study the influence of different cooling schemes on the wall temperature of the flame tube in a small triple-swirler combustor in this paper. Two different cooling structures are adopted: the impingement-film and inclined multi-hole cooling structure (Scheme B, C), and the inclined multi-hole control group (Scheme A). The impact of parameters including inlet temperature (373–423 K), inlet Mach number (Ma) (0.12–0.18), and fuel–air ratio (FAR) (0.02–0.03) are discussed. The results show that the wall temperature of the flame tube rises with the increase in inlet temperature; as the inlet Mach number increases, the wall temperature (Scheme B, C) of the primary zone goes up and is distributed more uniformly; as FAR rises, the wall temperature in Scheme C is nearly unchanged, while it is increased in Scheme A and B. For the range of parameters considered in this study, the lowest wall temperature and the best cooling effect are observed in Scheme C. The experiment conducted on the impingement-film and inclined multi-hole structure shows a better cooling effect than that conducted on the traditional inclined multi-hole structure. Compared with the row number of multi-inclined holes, the diameter of jet hole has a more significant influence on the cooling effect.
Influence of Using Waste Plastic and/or Recycled Rubber as Coarse Aggregates on the Performance of Pervious Concrete
Authors: Cole Lewis , Bakheet Ramez , Akib Shatirah
Published: October 2020

Flooding is one of the climatic change consequences that has become a dangerous threat to many coastal cities. Pervious concrete is considered a solution to decrease rainwater runoff and mitigate flood effects, as it allows water to percolate through the ground and prevent possible damage. Using waste products as aggregates in pervious concrete not only exploits waste materials and makes it valuable but also reduces the amount of this waste ending in the landfill or harming the environment, and it decreases the demand for natural resources. Infiltration rate test and compressive strength tests were conducted to investigate the effect of using waste plastic and/or recycled rubber as concrete coarse aggregates with different ratios (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) on the pervious concrete. The results showed that increasing the waste materials in concrete decreased the compressive strength for all ratios while increased the infiltration rate values.
Numerical Simulation of Single-Droplet Dynamics, Vaporization, and Heat Transfer from Impingement onto Static and Vibrating Surfaces
Authors: Jose J. Thalackottore , Dunne J. F.
Published: October 2020

A numerical study is presented to examine the behavior of a single liquid droplet initially passing through air or steam, followed by impingement onto a static or vibrating surface. The fluid dynamic equations are solved using the Volume of Fluid method, which includes both viscous and surface tension effects, and the possibility of droplet evaporation when the impact surface is hot. Initially, dynamic behavior is examined for isothermal impingement of a droplet moving through air, first without and then with boundary vibration. Isothermal simulations are used to establish how droplet rebound conditions and the time interval between initial contact to detachment vary with droplet diameter for droplet impingement onto a stationary boundary. Heat transfer is then assessed for a liquid droplet initially at saturation temperature passing through steam, followed by contact with a hot vibrating boundary, in which droplet evaporation commences. The paper shows that, for droplet impingement onto a static boundary, the minimum impact velocity for rebound reduces linearly with droplet diameter, whereas the time interval between initial contact and detachment appears to increase linearly with droplet diameter. With the introduction of a vibrating surface, the minimum relative impact velocity for isothermal rebound is found to be higher than the minimum impact velocity for static boundary droplet rebound. For impingement onto a hot surface, in which droplet evaporation commences, it is shown that large-amplitude surface vibration reduces heat transfer, whereas low-amplitude high-frequency vibration appears to increase heat transfer.
Effects of Preservative Agents on Quality Attributes of Dry-Cured Fermented Sausages
Authors: Álvarez Micaela , Andrade María J. , García Carmen , Rondán Juan J. , Núñez Félix
Published: October 2020

Enterococcus faecium SE920, Debaryomyces hansenii FHSCC 253H, Penicillium chrysogenum CECT 20922, producer of the antifungal protein PgAFP, and this protein itself have previously been proposed to control toxigenic molds in dry-cured meat products. However, their effects on the usual microbial population, and the sensory characteristics of these foods, have not yet been evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess the viability of the inoculation of these protective cultures, and their impact on the quality of dry-cured fermented sausages. These microorganisms were co-inoculated with a native desirable population (Penicillium nalgiovense, P. chrysogenum, D. hansenii, and Staphylococcus vitulinus) in a dry-cured fermented sausage (salchichón)-based medium in the presence and absence of PgAFP. Macroscopically, the biocontrol candidates did not produce relevant changes in the growth of the native population, enabling their coexistence. However, PgAFP causes the alteration of the hyphae structure in desirable molds. Thus, PgAFP was discarded for use on the surface of raw dry-cured fermented sausages (salchichón) in the pilot plant. The used biocontrol agents did not negatively affect the physico-chemical parameters of the dry-cured fermented sausages (salchichón) after ripening, which showed the typical volatile profile and odor. Thus, the application of E. faecium SE920, D. hansenii FHSCC 253H, and P. chrysogenum CECT 20922 as protective cultures against toxigenic molds during the ripening of dry-cured fermented sausages does not modify their typical sensorial quality.
Accumulation of Phenolic Acids during Storage over Differently Handled Fresh Carrots
Authors: Hellström Jarkko , Granato Daniel , Mattila Pirjo H.
Published: October 2020

Carrots contain a significant content of phenolic compounds, mainly phenolic acids. Technological processing of carrots inflicts wounding stress and induces accumulation of these compounds, especially caffeic acid derivatives, in the periderm tissue. In this study, the effect of minimal processing (polishing, washing, peeling, and grating) on the retention of soluble phenolic acids in carrots was monitored during cold storage. Storage for up to 4 weeks and 24 h was used for whole and grated carrot samples, respectively. Total phenolic acid levels found in differently processed carrots varied greatly at the beginning of the storage period and on dry weight basis they ranged from 228 ± 67.9 mg/kg (grated carrot) to 996 ± 177 mg/kg (machine washed). In each case, processing followed by storage induced phenolic acid accumulation in the carrots. At the end of the experiment (4 weeks at +8 °C), untreated and machine-washed carrots contained ca. 4-fold more phenolic acids than at day 0. Similarly, polished carrots contained 9-fold and peeled carrots 31-fold more phenolic acids than at day 0. The phenolic acid content in grated carrot doubled after 24 h storage at +4 °C. Individual phenolic acids were characterized by high resolution mass spectrometry. MS data strongly suggest the presence of daucic acid conjugates of phenolic acids in carrot. Storage time did not have statistically similar effect on all compounds and generally in a way that dicaffeoyldaucic acid had the highest increase. This research provides important information for primary production, packaging, catering, the fresh-cut industry and consumers regarding the selection of healthier minimally processed carrots.
Onboard Evaluation of Variable Water Flow and Recirculation Effects on Bleeding of Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)
Authors: Eliasson Saemundur , Arason Sigurjon , Margeirsson Bjorn , Palsson Olafur P.
Published: October 2020

The aim of the study was to explore the effects of different design variables in the onboard bleeding process of cod on bleeding efficiency and the resulting product quality. A time- and flow-controlled process was used to create variable bleeding conditions for whole gutted cod onboard a wet-fish trawler. Two main design variables influencing the bleeding process are the pump flow recirculation (PFR) and the water replacement ratio (WRR); they were studied in five different combinations (groups). The effects of different bleeding conditions were evaluated by measurements of free fatty acids (FFAs), phospholipids (PLs), and total heme iron (HI) content during freezer storage for up to four months. The results for PL content and the regression model indicate that the enzyme activity in the fish muscle is lower in cases where PFR exerts greater influence in the bleeding process than WRR. The effects of successful blood removal also seem to be most noticeable after one month of freezer storage, rather than in fresh cod after seven days or after four months of simulated frozen food-chain storage. The study indicates that, with the bleeding medium to fish ratio of around 3:1 and enough WRR (over 100% replacement in 20 min), the PFR becomes the limiting design parameter regarding efficient blood removal and should be at least 10% of the tank volume per minute to ensure enough recirculation and flow of water in the bleed-out tanks.
Low pH Enhances the Glucosinolate-Mediated Yellowing of Takuan-zuke under Low Salt Conditions
Authors: Kobayashi Taito , Kumakura Kei , Takahashi Asaka , Matsuoka Hiroki
Published: October 2020

This study was performed to clarify the enhancement of the 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate induced yellowing of salted radish root (takuan-zuke) by low pH during short-term salt-aging at low temperature and low salinity. We used two different methods to prepare the dehydrated daikon prior to salt-aging: air-drying outdoors (hoshi takuan-zuke) or salting with a stone press (shio-oshi takuan-zuke). Low salt-aging at low temperature was carried out under pH control with citrate-phosphate buffer. The yellowing of both types of takuan-zuke was accelerated below pH 5, and the color of air-dried takuan-zuke was deeper than that of salt-pressed takuan-zuke. To elucidate this phenomenon, several previously reported yellowing-related compounds were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The result showed that the production of the primary pigment, 2-[3-(2-thioxopyrrolidin-3-ylidene)methyl]-tryptophan, was low compared with that in previous reports. Therefore, we suggest that an unknown pigment was generated through a previously unreported pathway.
Adaptive Neural Network Sliding Mode Control for Nonlinear Singular Fractional Order Systems with Mismatched Uncertainties
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Huang Wenkai
Published: October 2020

This paper focuses on the sliding mode control (SMC) problem for a class of uncertain singular fractional order systems (SFOSs). The uncertainties occur in both state and derivative matrices. A radial basis function (RBF) neural network strategy was utilized to estimate the nonlinear terms of SFOSs. Firstly, by expanding the dimension of the SFOS, a novel sliding surface was constructed. A necessary and sufficient condition was given to ensure the admissibility of the SFOS while the system state moves on the sliding surface. The obtained results are linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which are more general than the existing research. Then, the adaptive control law based on the RBF neural network was organized to guarantee that the SFOS reaches the sliding surface in a finite time. Finally, a simulation example is proposed to verify the validity of the designed procedures.
Lights and Shadows in the Genetics of Syndromic and Non-Syndromic Hearing Loss in the Italian Population
Authors: Morgan Anna , Lenarduzzi Stefania , Spedicati Beatrice , Cattaruzzi Elisabetta , Murru Flora Maria , Pelliccione Giulia , Mazzà Daniela , Zollino Marcella , Graziano Claudio , Ambrosetti Umberto , Seri Marco , Faletra Flavio , Girotto Giorgia
Published: October 2020

Hearing loss (HL), both syndromic (SHL) and non-syndromic (NSHL), is the most common sensory disorder, affecting ~460 million people worldwide. More than 50% of the congenital/childhood cases are attributable to genetic causes, highlighting the importance of genetic testing in this class of disorders. Here we applied a multi-step strategy for the molecular diagnosis of HL in 125 patients, which included: (1) an accurate clinical evaluation, (2) the analysis of GJB2, GJB6, and MT-RNR1 genes, (3) the evaluation STRC-CATSPER2 and OTOA deletions via Multiplex Ligation Probe Amplification (MLPA), (4) Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) in patients negative to steps 2 and 3. Our approach led to the characterization of 50% of the NSHL cases, confirming both the relevant role of the GJB2 (20% of cases) and STRC deletions (6% of cases), and the high genetic heterogeneity of NSHL. Moreover, due to the genetic findings, 4% of apparent NSHL patients have been re-diagnosed as SHL. Finally, WES characterized 86% of SHL patients, supporting the role of already know disease-genes. Overall, our approach proved to be efficient in identifying the molecular cause of HL, providing essential information for the patients’ future management.
Diverse Horizontally-Acquired Gene Clusters Confer Sucrose Utilization to Different Lineages of the Marine Pathogen Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae
Authors: Abushattal Saqr , Vences Ana , Barca Alba V. , Osorio Carlos R.
Published: October 2020

The ability to metabolize sucrose is a variable trait within the family Vibrionaceae. The marine bacterium Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae (Pdd), pathogenic for marine animals and humans, is generally described as negative for sucrose utilization (Scr−). Previous studies have reported sucrose-utilizing isolates (Scr+), but the genetic basis of this variable phenotype remains uncharacterized. Here, we carried out the genome sequencing of five Scr+ and two Scr−Pdd isolates and conducted a comparative genomics analysis with sixteen additional Pdd genomes sequenced in previous studies. We identified two different versions of a four-gene cluster (scr cluster) exclusive of Scr+ isolates encoding a PTS system sucrose-specific IIBC component (scrA), a fructokinase (scrK), a sucrose-6-phosphate hydrolase (scrB), and a sucrose operon repressor (scrR). A scrA deletion mutant did not ferment sucrose and was impaired for growth with sucrose as carbon source. Comparative genomics analyses suggested that scr clusters were acquired by horizontal transfer by different lineages of Pdd and were inserted into a recombination hot-spot in the Pdd genome. The incongruence of phylogenies based on housekeeping genes and on scr genes revealed that phylogenetically diverse gene clusters for sucrose utilization have undergone extensive horizontal transfer among species of Vibrio and Photobacterium.
When and How Does the Job Insecurity of Salespersons Become a Sleep Problem? The Moderating Roles of Organizational Control Systems
Authors: Jung Chang Mo , Moon Tae-Won , Hur Won-Moo
Published: October 2020

The present study examines the effect of the emotional exhaustion associated with salespersons’ job insecurity on their sleep (i.e., insomnia symptoms). We identified two types of formal organizational control systems (i.e., outcome-based and behavior-based controls) as boundary conditions that strengthen/weaken the positive relationship between job insecurity and emotional exhaustion. To test this moderating effect, we collected online panel surveys from 187 Korean salespersons at two time points, which were separated by three months. Like our predictions, the positive relationship between job insecurity and negative sleep quality (i.e., insomnia symptoms) was found to be mediated by emotional exhaustion. We further found a significant three-way interaction between job insecurity, outcome-based control, and behavior-based control, which is mediated by emotional exhaustion, indicating that the positive relationship between job insecurity and emotional exhaustion was strongest when the outcome-based control and behavior-based control of salespersons were high and low, respectively. The indirect effect of the emotional exhaustion associated with job insecurity on sleep quality was also weakest when the outcome-based control and behavior-based control were both high. These results provide theoretical and practical implications for managing employees in job insecurity contexts.
Which Occupation is Highly Associated with Cognitive Impairment? A Gender-Specific Longitudinal Study of Paid and Unpaid Occupations in South Korea
Authors: Chung Woojin , Kim Roeul
Published: October 2020

Background: To examine the associations between paid and unpaid occupations and the risk of cognitive impairment with respect to gender in a middle-aged population using the dataset of a nationally representative longitudinal survey. Methods: Overall, 24,925 observations of 5865 participants aged 45–64 years were sampled from the seven waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (2006–2018). A dichotomous outcome variable was derived based on the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination scores, and occupations were grouped into 12 categories, including three unpaid ones. Sociodemographics, lifestyle, and medical conditions were included as covariates in the mixed logistic regression models. Adjusted odds ratios and predicted probabilities of cognitive impairment were estimated. Results: In the longitudinal models with all-studied covariates, the risk of cognitive impairment was similar between genders but differed across occupation categories for each gender. Moreover, the association between occupation and cognitive impairment varied between genders. Regarding the predicted probability, in men, the retired category exhibited the highest risk of cognitive impairment. However, in women, the highest risk was related to the homemakers category, with the risk being more than five times higher than those in the professionals and related workers category. Conclusions: Public health policies to reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in the middle-aged population need to be designed and implemented with respect to both gender and occupation.