bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The MMP-8 rs11225395 Promoter Polymorphism Increases Cancer Risk of Non-Asian Populations: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Feng Jiarong , Chen Yudi , Hua Wenxi , Sun Xiaohan , Chen Yanjie , Liu Yu , Fan Jiaying , Zhao Yuening , Zhao Lixiang , Xu Xiaojing , Yang Xiaoqin
Published: October 2019

This meta-analysis aimed to systematically review the evidence on cancer risk of the MMP-8 rs11225395 promoter polymorphism. Relevant studies published by 12 June 2019 were identified by systematically searching PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI and Wanfang databases. R programs and STATA software were used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). In total, 7375 cancer samples and 8117 controls were included by integrating 15 case-control data sets. Pooled estimates from the statistical analysis revealed no statistical significance for the association between this polymorphism and cancer risk. All pooled estimates resulting from subgroup analyses by cancer type and sample size were not materially altered and did not draw significantly different conclusions. The stratified analyses according to geographic region showed the statistical significance for increased cancer risk of the MMP-8 rs11225395 polymorphism in non-Asian populations under the allele model (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.04–1.19), homozygote model (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05–1.41), heterozygote model (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07–1.36), and dominant model (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.08–1.35). However, no statistical significance was detected in Asian populations. In conclusion, these findings suggested that the MMP-8 rs11225395 polymorphism is associated with elevated susceptibility to cancer in non-Asian populations.
Phylogenetic Analysis to Explore the Association Between Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis and Tumors Based on microRNA Biomarkers
Authors: Wang Hsiuying
Published: October 2019

MicroRNA (miRNA) is a small non-coding RNA that functions in the epigenetics control of gene expression, which can be used as a useful biomarker for diseases. Anti-NMDA receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is an acute autoimmune disorder. Some patients have been found to have tumors, specifically teratomas. This disease occurs more often in females than in males. Most of them have a significant recovery after tumor resection, which shows that the tumor may induce anti-NMDAR encephalitis. In this study, I review microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers that are associated with anti-NMDAR encephalitis and related tumors, respectively. To the best of my knowledge, there has not been any research in the literature investigating the relationship between anti-NMDAR encephalitis and tumors through their miRNA biomarkers. I adopt a phylogenetic analysis to plot the phylogenetic trees of their miRNA biomarkers. From the analyzed results, it may be concluded that (i) there is a relationship between these tumors and anti-NMDAR encephalitis, and (ii) this disease occurs more often in females than in males. This sheds light on this issue through miRNA intervention.
MMP2 Polymorphism Affects Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 Levels, and Correlates with the Decline in Lung Function in Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Positive to Autoantibodies Patients
Authors: Santiago-Ruiz Luis , Buendía-Roldán Ivette , Pérez-Rubio Gloria , Ambrocio-Ortiz Enrique , Mejía Mayra , Montaño Martha , Falfán-Valencia Ramcés
Published: October 2019

Among hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) patients have been identified who develop autoantibodies with and without clinical manifestations of autoimmune disease. Genetic factors involved in this process and the effect of these autoantibodies on the clinical phenotype are unknown. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have an important role in architecture and pulmonary remodeling. The aim of our study was to identify polymorphisms in the MMP1, MMP2, MMP9 and MMP12 genes associated with susceptibility to HP with the presence of autoantibodies (HPAbs+). Using the dominant model of genetic association, comparisons were made between three groups. For rs7125062 in MMP1 (CC vs. CT+TT), we found an association when comparing groups of patients with healthy controls: HPAbs+ vs. HC (p < 0.001, OR = 10.62, CI 95% = 4.34–25.96); HP vs. HC (p < 0.001, OR = 7.85, 95% CI 95% = 4.54–13.57). This rs11646643 in MMP2 shows a difference in the HPAbs+ group by the dominant genetic model GG vs. GA+AA, (p = 0.001, OR = 8.11, CI 95% = 1.83–35.84). In the linear regression analysis, rs11646643 was associated with a difference in basal forced vital capacity (FVC)/12 months (p = 0.013, β = 0.228, 95% CI95% = 1.97–16.72). We identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the risk of developing HP, and with the evolution towards the phenotype with the presence of autoantibodies. Also, to the decrease in plasma MMP-2 levels.
Effects of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Ala270Ser (rs316019) on the Function and Regulation of hOCT2
Authors: Frenzel Dominik , Köppen Christina , Bolle Bauer Oliver , Karst Uwe , Schröter Rita , Tzvetkov Mladen V. , Ciarimboli Giuliano
Published: October 2019

The human organic cation transporter 2 (hOCT2) is highly expressed in proximal tubules of the kidneys, where it plays an important role in the secretion of organic cations. Since many drugs are organic cations, hOCT2 has relevant pharmacological implications. The hOCT2 gene is polymorphic, and the nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) causing the substitution of alanine at position 270 of the protein sequence with serine (Ala270Ser) is present with high frequency in the human population. Therefore, Ala270Ser has potentially important pharmacologic consequences. Here, we analyzed the transport properties and rapid regulation of hOCT2 wildtype and hOCT2 Ala270Ser expressed in human embryonic kidney cells using real-time uptake measurements. Moreover, we compared the expression of hOCT2 in the plasma membrane determined by biotinylation experiments and the cellular transport and toxicity of cisplatin measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and a viability test, respectively. The transport characteristics and regulation of the wildtype and mutated hOCT2 were very similar. Interestingly, a higher affinity of hOCT2 Ala270Ser for creatinine was observed. Compared with hOCT2 wildtype, the plasma membrane expression, cisplatin transport, and cisplatin-associated toxicity of hOCT2 Ala270Ser were significantly lower. In conclusion, these findings suggest that Ala270Ser has subtle but important effects on hOCT2 function, which are probably difficult to detect in studies with patients.
Highly Sensitive and Rapid Characterization of the Development of Synchronized Blood Stage Malaria Parasites Via Magneto-Optical Hemozoin Quantification
Authors: Pukáncsik Mária , Molnár Petra , Orbán Ágnes , Butykai Ádám , Marton Lívia , Kézsmárki István , Vértessy Beáta G. , Kamil Mohd , Abraham Amanah , Aly Ahmed S. I.
Published: October 2019

The rotating-crystal magneto-optical diagnostic (RMOD) technique was developed as a sensitive and rapid platform for malaria diagnosis. Herein, we report a detailed in vivo assessment of the synchronized Plasmodium vinckei lentum strain blood-stage infections by the RMOD method and comparing the results to the unsynchronized Plasmodium yoelii 17X-NL (non-lethal) infections. Furthermore, we assess the hemozoin production and clearance dynamics in chloroquine-treated compared to untreated self-resolving infections by RMOD. The findings of the study suggest that the RMOD signal is directly proportional to the hemozoin content and closely follows the actual parasitemia level. The lack of long-term accumulation of hemozoin in peripheral blood implies a dynamic equilibrium between the hemozoin production rate of the parasites and the immune system’s clearing mechanism. Using parasites with synchronous blood stage cycle, which resemble human malaria parasite infections with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, we are demonstrating that the RMOD detects both hemozoin production and clearance rates with high sensitivity and temporal resolution. Thus, RMOD technique offers a quantitative tool to follow the maturation of the malaria parasites even on sub-cycle timescales.
Targeting Glycolysis with Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Enhances the Efficacy of Chemotherapeutics in Pancreatic Cancer Cells and Xenografts
Authors: Wei Ran , Hackman Robert M. , Wang Yuefei , Mackenzie Gerardo G.
Published: October 2019

Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease, in need of new therapeutic approaches. In this study, we explored the effect and mechanism of action of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenol in green tea, alone and in combination with current chemotherapeutics on pancreatic cancer cell growth, focusing on glycolysis metabolism. Moreover, we investigated whether EGCG’s effect is dependent on its ability to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS). EGCG reduced pancreatic cancer cell growth in a concentration-dependent manner and the growth inhibition effect was further enhanced under glucose deprivation conditions. Mechanistically, EGCG induced ROS levels concentration-dependently. EGCG affected glycolysis by suppressing the extracellular acidification rate through the reduction of the activity and levels of the glycolytic enzymes phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase. Cotreatment with catalase abrogated EGCG’s effect on phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase. Furthermore, EGCG sensitized gemcitabine to inhibit pancreatic cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. EGCG and gemcitabine, given alone, reduced pancreatic tumor xenograft growth by 40% and 52%, respectively, whereas the EGCG/gemcitabine combination reduced tumor growth by 67%. EGCG enhanced gemcitabine’s effect on apoptosis, cell proliferation, cell cycle and further suppressed phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase levels. In conclusion, EGCG is a strong combination partner of gemcitabine reducing pancreatic cancer cell growth by suppressing glycolysis.
The Major Histocompatibility Complex of Old World Camels—A Synopsis
Authors: Plasil Martin , Wijkmark Sofia , Elbers Jean Pierre , Oppelt Jan , Burger Pamela Anna , Horin Petr
Published: October 2019

This study brings new information on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class III sub-region genes in Old World camels and integrates current knowledge of the MHC region into a comprehensive overview for Old World camels. Out of the MHC class III genes characterized, TNFA and the LY6 gene family showed high levels of conservation, characteristic for MHC class III loci in general. For comparison, an MHC class II gene TAP1, not coding for antigen presenting molecules but functionally related to MHC antigen presenting functions was studied. TAP1 had many SNPs, even higher than the MHC class I and II genes encoding antigen presenting molecules. Based on this knowledge and using new camel genomic resources, we constructed an improved genomic map of the entire MHC region of Old World camels. The MHC class III sub-region shows a standard organization similar to that of pig or cattle. The overall genomic structure of the camel MHC is more similar to pig MHC than to cattle MHC. This conclusion is supported by differences in the organization of the MHC class II sub-region, absence of functional DY genes, different organization of MIC genes in the MHC class I sub-region, and generally closer evolutionary relationships of camel and porcine MHC gene sequences analyzed so far.
Acetylcholine Receptor Activation as a Modulator of Glioblastoma Invasion
Authors: Thompson Emily G. , Sontheimer Harald
Published: October 2019

Grade IV astrocytomas, or glioblastomas (GBMs), are the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. The median GBM patient survival of 12–15 months has remained stagnant, in spite of treatment strategies, making GBMs a tremendous challenge clinically. This is at least in part due to the complex interaction of GBM cells with the brain microenvironment and their tendency to aggressively infiltrate normal brain tissue. GBMs frequently invade supratentorial brain regions that are richly innervated by neurotransmitter projections, most notably acetylcholine (ACh). Here, we asked whether ACh signaling influences the biology of GBMs. We examined the expression and function of known ACh receptors (AChRs) in large GBM datasets, as well as, human GBM cell lines and patient-derived xenograft lines. Using RNA-Seq data from the “The Cancer Genome Atlas” (TCGA), we confirmed the expression of AChRs and demonstrated the functionality of these receptors in GBM cells with time-lapse calcium imaging. AChR activation did not alter cell proliferation or migration, however, it significantly increased cell invasion through complex extracellular matrices. This was due to the enhanced activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) from GBM cells, which we found to be dependent on an intracellular calcium-dependent mechanism. Consistent with these findings, AChRs were significantly upregulated in regions of GBM infiltration in situ (Ivy Glioblastoma Atlas Project) and elevated expression of muscarinic AChR M3 correlated with reduced patient survival (TCGA). Data from the Repository for Molecular Brain Neoplasia Data (REMBRANDT) dataset also showed the co-expression of choline transporters, choline acetyltransferase, and vesicular acetylcholine transporters, suggesting that GBMs express all the proteins required for ACh synthesis and release. These findings identify ACh as a modulator of GBM behavior and posit that GBMs may utilize ACh as an autocrine signaling molecule.
Alternative Splicing in Heat Shock Protein Transcripts as a Mechanism of Cell Adaptation in Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Neves-da-Rocha João , Bitencourt Tamires A. , de Oliveira Vanderci M. , Sanches Pablo R. , Rossi Antonio , Martinez-Rossi Nilce M.
Published: October 2019

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are involved in critical processes like host tissue invasion, resistance, and pathogenicity in dermatophytes. RNA-Seq analysis of Trichophyton rubrum exposed to undecanoic acid (UDA) revealed intron retention events in HSP transcripts. Because HSPs are modulated in response to various stimuli and as alternative splicing (AS) can result in a broad diversity in the proteome of eukaryotic cells, our objective was to confirm the aforementioned retention events, investigating their consequences and extent. Furthermore, we aimed to determine: (1) the expression profile of HSP genes in an infection-like scenario and (2) the importance of Hsp90 for the keratinolytic potential of T. rubrum. RT and qPCR analyses comparing the exposure to UDA and terbinafine (TRB) confirmed the presence of two mRNA isoforms of the hsp7-like gene, with distinct expression patterns in response to UDA and TRB. The HSP expression profile revealed two upregulated, three downregulated, and four unmodulated transcripts; Hsp90 inhibition by 17-AAG resulted in a significant decrease in keratinolytic potential at 37 °C. Altogether, these results broaden the current knowledge on the importance of HSP-mediated pathways for cell adaptation and other aspects of dermatophyte biology, indicating that HSP network proteins can be potential targets for antifungal therapy.
Characterizing CDK8/19 Inhibitors through a NFκB-Dependent Cell-Based Assay
Authors: Li Jing , Ji Hao , Porter Donald C. , Broude Eugenia V. , Roninson Igor B. , Chen Mengqian
Published: October 2019

Cell-based assays for CDK8/19 inhibition are not easily defined, since there are no known cellular functions unique to these kinases. To solve this problem, we generated derivatives of 293 cells with CRISPR knockout of one or both of CDK8 and CDK19. Double knockout (dKO) of CDK8 and CDK19 together (but not individually) decreased the induction of transcription by NFκB (a CDK8/19-potentiated transcription factor) and abrogated the effect of CDK8/19 inhibitors on such induction. We generated wild type (WT) and dKO cell lines expressing luciferase from an NFκB-dependent promoter. Inhibitors selective for CDK8/19 over other CDKs decreased TNFα-induced luciferase expression in WT cells by ~80% with no effect on luciferase induction in dKO cells. In contrast, non-selective CDK inhibitors flavopiridol and dinaciclib and a CDK7/12/13 inhibitor THZ1 (but not CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib) suppressed luciferase induction in both WT and dKO cells, indicating a distinct role for other CDKs in the NFκB pathway. We used this assay to characterize a series of thienopyridines with in vitro bone anabolic activity, one of which was identified as a selective CDK8/19 inhibitor. Thienopyridines inhibited luciferase induction in the WT but not dKO cells and their IC50 values in the WT reporter assay showed near-perfect correlation (R2 = 0.98) with their reported activities in a bone anabolic activity assay, confirming that the latter function is mediated by CDK8/19 and validating our assay as a robust and quantitative method for CDK8/19 inhibition.
Increased Regeneration Following Stress-Induced Lung Injury in Bleomycin-Treated Chimeric Mice with CD44 Knockout Mesenchymal Cells
Authors: Petukhov Dmytro , Richter-Dayan Mark , Fridlender Zvi , Breuer Raphael , Wallach-Dayan Shulamit B.
Published: October 2019

CD44, an adhesion-molecule promoting cell-migration, is shown here to increase in stress conditions following bleomycin-induced apoptosis in alveolar epithelial cells (AECs), a main target of lung injury. In vivo, it inhibits tissue regeneration and leads to fibrosis. We show that some AECs survive by the ataxia-telangiectasia mutated kinase/ATM pathway, and undergo a CD44-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation (EMT) with migratory capacities in vitro, and in vivo. We assessed apoptosis vs. proliferation of AECs following bleomycin, ATM/P53 signaling pathway in AECs, and CD44 involvement in EMT, cell motility and tissue regeneration in vitro and in vivo. Expression of survival genes, CD44, and ATM/p53 pathway was elevated in AECs surviving bleomycin injury, as were the markers of EMT (downregulation of E-cadherin, upregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin, nuclear translocation of β-catenin). Inhibition of CD44 decreased AECs transdifferentiation. Bleomycin-treated chimeric CD44KO-mice had decreased EMT markers, ATM, and mesenchymal cells (α-SMA+) accumulation in lung, increased surfactant-b, diminished lung mesenchymal cell motility, and increased lung tissue regenerative capacity following bleomycin injury, as indicated by lung collagen content and semiquantitave morphological index scoring. Thus, AECs surviving lung injury are plastic and undergo ATM-mediated, CD44-dependent transdifferentiation, preventing tissue regeneration and promoting fibrosis. Synthetic or natural compounds that downregulate CD44 may improve tissue regeneration following injury.
Influence of Bath Additives on the Thermal Stability of the Nanostructure and Hardness of Ni Films Processed by Electrodeposition
Authors: Kolonits Tamás , Czigány Zsolt , Péter László , Bakonyi Imre , Gubicza Jeno
Published: October 2019

The effect of bath additives on the thermal stability of the microstructure and hardness of nanocrystalline Ni foils processed by electrodeposition was studied. Three samples with a thickness of 20 μm were prepared: one without any additive and two others with saccharin or trisodium citrate additives. Then, the specimens were heat-treated at different temperatures up to 1000 K. It was found that for the additive-free sample the recovery of the microstructure and the reduction of the hardness started only at temperatures higher than 500 K. At the same time, a decrease of the defect density and hardness was observed even at 400 K for the additive-containing films. This was explained by the higher defect density, which increased the thermodynamic driving force for recovery during annealing. At the highest applied temperature (1000 K), this larger thermodynamic driving force resulted in a recrystallization in the sulfur-containing sample, leading to a very low hardness of about 1000 MPa as compared to the additive-free sample (1300 MPa). On the other hand, the sample deposited with trisodium citrate additive showed a better thermal stability at 1000 K than the additive-free sample: the hardness remained as high as 2000 MPa even at 1000 K.
Thermal Fatigue Failure Behavior of Surface/Interface of Plasma Cladding Layer
Authors: Li Yang , Tan Na , Jin Guo , Cui Xiufang , Li Qiu
Published: October 2019

Co-based coating was prepared by plasma cladding on FV520B substrates. Microstructure of the coatings was observed by scanning electron microscope. Finite element simulation as a predictive method to research the stress distributed after thermal cycling. Thermal fatigue resistance of the coating-substrate was evaluated at temperature of 600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C, and 900 °C. Results indicate that the surface/interface structure has excellent thermal fatigue resistance at 600 °C, and the thermal fatigue crack initiated near the interface and extended along the grain boundary. The difference of expansion coefficient of the coating and substrate is small near 600 °C, and the difference increased when the temperature climbed above 600 °C. The diffuse elements could be found near the interface after the thermal cycle, and the dislocations and precipitated phase were observed.
Ultrasound-Guided Needle Aspiration of Peritonsillar Abscesses: Utility of Transoral Pharyngeal Ultrasonography
Authors: Hagiwara Yuta , Saito Yoshimitsu , Ogura Hana , Yaguchi Yuichiro , Shimizu Takahiro , Hasegawa Yasuhiro
Published: October 2019

A peritonsillar abscess is a common deep infection that is usually related to acute tonsillitis. Needle aspiration is often performed for diagnosis and treatment, but several complications, including puncture of the carotid artery, may occur, even when performed by properly trained physicians. The utility of transoral pharyngeal ultrasonography (TOPU) equipped with a biopsy adaptor for safe and full aspiration is presented. A 19-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of a peritonsillar abscess. TOPU showed the abscess and a branch of the carotid artery, and an otolaryngologist performed puncture through the biopsy adaptor with the aid of the ultrasound image. Needle aspiration was accomplished by avoiding arterial puncture and monitoring the shrinkage of the abscess. TOPU-guided needle aspiration is useful in the safe drainage of peritonsillar abscesses.
Entropy Production Rates of the Multi-Dimensional Fractional Diffusion Processes
Authors: Luchko Yuri
Published: October 2019

Our starting point is the n-dimensional time-space-fractional partial differential equation (PDE) with the Caputo time-fractional derivative of order β , 0 < β < 2 and the fractional spatial derivative (fractional Laplacian) of order α , 0 < α ≤ 2 . For this equation, we first derive some integral representations of the fundamental solution and then discuss its important properties including scaling invariants and non-negativity. The time-space-fractional PDE governs a fractional diffusion process if and only if its fundamental solution is non-negative and can be interpreted as a spatial probability density function evolving in time. These conditions are satisfied for an arbitrary dimension n ∈ N if 0 < β ≤ 1 , 0 < α ≤ 2 and additionally for 1 < β ≤ α ≤ 2 in the one-dimensional case. In all these cases, we derive the explicit formulas for the Shannon entropy and for the entropy production rate of a fractional diffusion process governed by the corresponding time-space-fractional PDE. The entropy production rate depends on the orders β and α of the time and spatial derivatives and on the space dimension n and is given by the expression β n α t , t being the time variable. Even if it is an increasing function in β , one cannot speak about any entropy production paradoxes related to these processes (as stated in some publications) because the time-space-fractional PDE governs a fractional diffusion process in all dimensions only under the condition 0 < β ≤ 1 , i.e., only the slow and the conventional diffusion can be described by this equation.
Demand Forecasting Approaches Based on Associated Relationships for Multiple Products
Authors: Lei Ming , Li Shalang , Yu Shasha
Published: October 2019

As product variety is an important feature for modern enterprises, multi-product demand forecasting is essential to support order decision-making and inventory management. However, these well-established forecasting approaches for multi-dimensional time series, such as Vector Autoregression (VAR) or dynamic factor model (DFM), all cannot deal very well with time series with high or ultra-high dimensionality, especially when the time series are short. Considering that besides the demand trends in historical data, that of associated products (including highly correlated ones or ones having significantly causality) can also provide rich information for prediction, we propose new forecasting approaches for multiple products in this study. The demand of associated products is treated as predictors to add in AR model to improve its prediction accuracy. If there are many time series associated with the object, we introduce two schemes to simplify variables to avoid over-fitting. Then procurement data from a grid company in China is applied to test forecasting performance of the proposed approaches. The empirical results reveal that compared with four conventional models, namely single exponential smoothing (SES), autoregression (AR), VAR and DFM respectively, the new approaches perform better in terms of forecasting errors and inventory simulation performance. They can provide more effective guidance for actual operational activities.
GPU Acceleration and Game Engines for Wireless Channel Estimation in Millimeter Waves
Authors: Gomez-Rojas Jorge , Guevara Dinael , Navarro Andres , Pascual-Garcia Juan
Published: October 2019

In this article, the intended purpose is to show an innovative technique for estimating the MIMO channel at millimeter wave bands, candidates for mobile 5G technology, by using hardware acceleration, game engines and heuristic algorithms applied to optical ray launching techniques. To verify the performance of the ray launching tool, the normalized Power Delay Profile (PDP) was simulated. The channel was analyzed using the mean square delay error (RMS), the average value of the delay (MD) and the basic propagation loss (PL). The results obtained in computational precision and time were compared with those of a traditional ray tracing tool simulation programmed in MATLAB and with the measurements made in the 57 to 66 GHz range in a specialized laboratory. The results show that the presented technique becomes efficiently profitable from a small number of simulated events (reflections, diffractions).
Extraction of Digital Cardiotocographic Signals from Digital Cardiotocographic Images: Robustness of eCTG Procedure
Authors: Sbrollini Agnese , Brini Lucia , Tillo Maria Di , Marcantoni Ilaria , Morettini Micaela , Burattini Laura
Published: October 2019

A recently developed software application, eCTG, extracts cardiotocographic (CTG) signals from digital CTG images, possibly obtained by scanning paper CTG reports. The aim of this study was to evaluate eCTG robustness across varying image formats, resolution and screw. Using 552 digital CTG signals from the “CTU-UHB Intrapartum Cardiotocography Database” of Physionet, seven sets of digital CTG images were created, differing in format (.TIFF, .PNG and .JPEG), resolution (96 dpi, 300 dpi and 600 dpi) and screw (0.0°, 0.5°, and 1.0°). All created images were submitted to eCTG for CTG signals extraction. Quality of extracted signals was statistically evaluated based 1) on signal morphology, by computation of the correlation coefficient (ρ) and of the mean signal error percent (MSE%), and 2) on signal clinical content, by assessment of 18 standard CTG variables. For all sets of images, ρ was high (ρ ≥ 0.81) and MSE% was small (MSE% ≤ 2%). However, significant changes occurred in median values of four, four and five standard CTG variables in image sets with 96 dpi resolution, 0.5° screw and 1.0° screw, respectively. In conclusion, for an optimal eCTG performance, digital images should be saved in lossless formats, have a resolution of at least 300 dpi and not be affected by screw.
Development of an Integrated Power Distribution System Laboratory Platform Using Modular Miniature Physical Elements: A Case Study of Fault Location
Authors: Tang Jinrui , Xiong Binyu , Yang Chen , Tang Cuilan , Li Yang , Su Guoxing , Bian Xinhao
Published: October 2019

The main shortcomings of the software-based power engineering education are a lack of physical understanding of phenomena and hands-on experience. Existing scaled-down analogous educational power system platforms cannot be widely used for experiments in universities due to the high cost, complicated operation, and huge size. An integrated power distribution system laboratory platform (PDSLP) using modular miniature physical elements is proposed in this paper. The printed circuit board (PCB) and microelectronic technology are proposed to construct each physical element. Furthermore, the constructed physical elements are used to set up an integrated PDSLP based on modular assembly technology. The size of the proposed cost-efficient PDSLP is significantly reduced, and the reliability of the proposed PDSLP can be improved greatly because the signal transmission path is shortened and a number of welding points are reduced. A PDSLP for fault location in neutral non-effectively grounded distribution systems (NGDSs) is selected as a typical experimental scenario and one scaled-down distribution network with three feeders is subsequently implemented and discussed. The measured zero-sequence currents by our proposed PDSLP when a single-phase earth fault occurred can reveal the true features of the fault-generated signals, including steady-state and transient characteristics of zero-sequence currents. They can be readily observed and used for students to design corresponding fault location algorithms. Modular renewable energy sources and other elements can be designed, implemented and integrated into the proposed platform for the laboratory education of the active distribution networks in the future.
Enhancement of Mist Flow Cooling by Using V-Shaped Broken Ribs
Authors: Huang Kuan-Tzu , Liu Yao-Hsien
Published: October 2019

Substantial heat transfer enhancement can be achieved by cooling with air/water mist flow because of droplet impingement and liquid film/fragment evaporation on the heated surface, which leads to a high heat-removal rate. An experimental investigation was conducted in a square channel with continuous and broken V-shaped ribs. To generate a mist flow, micro droplets were introduced into the gas stream. The rib angle of attack was 45°, and the rib spacing-to-height ratios were 10 and 20. The air Reynolds number ranged from 7900 to 24,000, and the water-to-air volume flow ratio was less than 0.1%. The net heat inputs ranged from 1.1–3.1 W/cm2 and 3.4–9.4 W/cm2 for the air and mist flow cases, respectively. Because the deposited liquid fragments produced uneven temperature distribution on the heated surface, steady-state infrared thermography was used to visualize the heat transfer distribution. Two to seven times higher heat transfer was attained for the broken ribs when using the mist flow than when using air flow. This increase was mainly attributed to the broken structure, which facilitated liquid transport and enhanced liquid coverage. In addition, the broken ribs produced a smaller friction factor than continuous ribs. The broken structures were beneficial for higher thermal performance in the mist flow.
Long-term Growth Variation and Selection of Geographical Provenances of Cunninghamialanceolata (Lamb.) Hook
Authors: Wu Hanbin , Duan Aiguo , Zhang Jianguo
Published: October 2019

In order to understand the long-term growth variation of Chinese fir’s geographical provenances and promote long-term genetic improvement, the experimental provenance forest of Chinese fir planted in 1981 was taken as a research object.The provenances originated from southeastern China. The study measured each diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height at 5, 6, 8, 12, and 33 years of age and analyzed the genetic variation of major growth traits of trees withdifferent provenances at different forest ages. Additionally, the study analyzed the geographical variation of Chinese fir by using the trend surface and principal component analysis (PCA) and evaluated the long-term selection effect of provenance by using juvenile–mature correlation and cluster analysis. The heritability of the DBH, treeheight, and volume of Chinese fir with different provenances reached 0.35–0.76, and with increasing forest age, the heritability of each trait showed a rising and gradually stabilizing trend. There were obvious differences in geographical variation patterns among the tested provenances, and both the DBH and the tree height growth patterns are two-way gradients. This variation pattern is associated with climatic conditions in different regions, and the factors limiting the growth difference of Chinese fir may be the mean temperature in winter and the precipitation in autumn and winter.An early selection age has a significant effect on shortening the timber production cycle of Chinese fir. The selection of trees aged between 6 and 12 years is more conducive to improving the efficiency of the genetic improvement of Chinese fir.The 42 excellent provenances selected from the 33-year-old mature Chinese fir forests have a larger increase in growth than trees with local provenances, which are concentrated in the Wuyi and Xuefeng mountains and are suitable for plantation in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and surrounding areas.
Modeling Migratory Flight in the Spruce Budworm: Circadian Rhythm
Authors: Régnière Jacques , Garcia Matthew , Saint-Amant Rémi
Published: October 2019

The crepuscular (evening) circadian rhythm of adult spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem.)) flight activity under the influence of changing evening temperatures is described using a mathematical model. This description is intended for inclusion in a comprehensive model of spruce budworm flight activity leading to the simulation of mass migration events. The model for the temporal likelihood of moth emigration flight is calibrated using numerous observations of flight activity in the moth’s natural environment. Results indicate an accurate description of moth evening flight activity using a temporal function covering the period around sunset and modified by evening temperature conditions. The moth’s crepuscular flight activity is typically coincident with the evening transition of the atmospheric boundary layer from turbulent daytime to stable nocturnal conditions. The possible interactions between moth flight activity and the evening boundary layer transition, with favorable wind and temperature conditions leading to massive and potentially successful migration events, as well as the potential impact of climate change on this process, are discussed.
Factors Affecting Spatial Variation in Vegetation Carbon Density in Pinus massoniana Lamb. Forest in Subtropical China
Authors: Pan Ping , Sun Yujun , Ouyang Xunzhi , Zang Hao , Rao Jinfeng , Ning Jinkui
Published: October 2019

Carbon density is an important indicator of carbon sequestration capacity in forest ecosystems. We investigated the vegetation carbon density of Pinus massoniana Lamb. forest in the Jiangxi Province. Based on plots investigation and measurement of the carbon content of the samples, the influencing factors and spatial variation of vegetation carbon density (including the tree layer, understory vegetation layer and litter layer) were analysed. The results showed that the average vegetation carbon density value of P. massoniana forest was 52 Mg·ha−1. The vegetation carbon density was significantly (p < 0.01) and positively correlated with the stand age, mean annual precipitation, elevation and stand density and negatively correlated with the slope and mean annual temperature. Forest management had a significant impact on vegetation carbon density. To manage P. massoniana forest for carbon sequestration as the primary objective, near-natural forest management theory should be followed, e.g., replanting broadleaf trees. These measures would promote positive succession and improve the vegetation carbon sequestration capacity of forests. The results from the global Moran’s I showed that the vegetation carbon density of P. massoniana forest had significant positive spatial autocorrelation. The results of local Moran’s I showed that the high-high spatial clusters were mainly distributed in the southern, western and eastern parts of the province. The low-low spatial clusters were distributed in the Yushan Mountains and in the northern part of the province. The fitting results of the semivariogram models showed that the spherical model was the best fitting model for vegetation carbon density. The ratio of nugget to sill was 0.45, indicating a moderate spatial correlation of carbon density. The vegetation carbon density based on kriging spatial interpolation was mainly concentrated in the range of 32.5–69.8 Mg·ha−1. The spatial distribution of vegetation carbon density regularity was generally low in the middle region and high in the peripheral region, which was consistent with the terrain characteristics of the study area.
Effect of the Strain Rate and Fiber Direction on the Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Beech Wood
Authors: Pang Shumeng , Liang Yingjing , Tao Weijun , Liu Yijie , Huan Shi , Qin Hongfa
Published: October 2019

As a macroscopically orthotropic material, beech wood has different mechanical properties along the fiber direction and the direction perpendicular to the fiber direction, presenting a complicated strain rate sensitivity under impact or blast loadings. To understand the effect of the strain rate on the mechanical properties of beech wood, dynamic compression tests were conducted for the strain rate range of 800 s−1–2000 s−1, and quasi-static compression tests for obtaining the static mechanical properties of beech wood were also performed for comparison. The fiber direction effect on the mechanical properties was also analyzed, considering two loading directions: one perpendicular to the beech fiber direction and the other parallel to the beech fiber direction. The results show that beech wood for both loading directions has a significant strain rate sensitivity, and the mechanical properties of beech wood along the fiber direction are superior to those along the direction perpendicular to the fiber direction. An analysis of the macrostructures and microstructures of beech specimens is also presented to illustrate the failure mechanisms. The beech wood, as a natural protective material, has special dynamic mechanical properties in the aspect of transverse isotropy. This research provides a theoretical basis for application in protective structures.
Intensive Management Increases Phytolith-Occluded Carbon Sequestration in Moso Bamboo Plantations in Subtropical China
Authors: Huang Chengpeng , Li Yongchun , Wu Jiasen , Huang Zhangting , Chang Scott X. , Jiang Peikun
Published: October 2019

Plantation management practices could markedly change the sequestration of phytolith-occluded carbon (PhytOC) in plants and soils. However, for Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) plantations, the effect of intensive plantation management (including fertilization, tillage, and removal of understory vegetation) on the accretion rate of PhytOC in the soil-plant system is much less understood than extensive management (without fertilization, tillage, and removal of understory vegetation). The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of intensive and extensive management practices on the production, accumulation, and runoff of PhytOC and their distribution in physical fractions in Moso bamboo plantations. Our results showed that intensive management (1) increased PhytOC production mainly due to increased forest productivity; (2) increased PhytOC storage in the heavy fraction but decreased its storage in the light fraction of organic matter, resulting in the lack of effect on soil PhytOC storage; (3) increased the rate of dissolution of phytolith and the loss of PhytOC in runoff; and (4) promoted PhytOC sequestration in the soil-plant system, mostly in the plants, due to the greater rate of PhytOC production than the rate of loss. We conclude that intensive bamboo plantation management practices are beneficial to increasing long-term PhytOC sequestration in the soil-plant system.
A Temporal Framework of Large Wildfire Suppression in Practice, a Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Simpson Heather , Bradstock Ross , Price Owen
Published: October 2019

Suppression activities on large wildfires are complicated. Existing suppression literature does not take into account this complexity which leaves existing suppression models and measures of resource productivity incomplete. A qualitative descriptive analysis was performed on the suppression activities described in operational documents of 10 large wildfires in Victoria, Australia. A five-stage classification system summarises suppression in the everyday terms of wildfire management. Suppression can be heterogeneous across different sectors with different stages occurring across sectors on the same day. The stages and the underlying 20 suppression tasks identified provide a fundamental description of how suppression resources are being used on large wildfires. We estimate that at least 57% of resource use on our sample of 10 large wildfires falls outside of current suppression modelling and productivity research.
Sol–Gel Treatments to Flame Retard PA11/Flax Composites
Authors: Samyn Fabienne , Vandewalle Maxence , Bellayer Séverine , Duquesne Sophie
Published: October 2019

This work investigates the efficiency of sol–gel treatments to flame retard flax fabric/PA11 composites. Different sol–gel treatments applied to the flax fabrics were prepared using TEOS in combination with phosphorus and/or nitrogen containing co-precursors (DEPTES, APTES) or additives (OP1230, OP1311). When the nitrogen and the phosphorus co-precursors were used, two coating methods were studied: a ‘one-pot’ route and a successive layer deposition method. For the “one-pot” method, the three precursors (TEOS, DEPTES, and APTES) were mixed together in the same solutions whereas for the different layers deposition method, the three different treatments were deposited on the fibers successively, first the TEOS, then a mix of TEOS/DEPTES, and finally a mix of TEOS/APTES. After deposition, the sol–gel coatings were characterized using scanning electron microscope, electron probe microanalyzer, and 29Si and 31P solid-state NMR. When only TEOS or a mix of TEOS and DEPTES is used, homogeneous coatings are obtained presenting well-condensed Si units (mainly Q units). When APTES is added, the coatings are less homogenous and agglomerates are present. A lower condensation rate of the Si network is also noticed by solid-state NMR. When additives are used in combination with TEOS, the TEOS forms a homogenous and continuous film at the surface of the fibers, but the flame retardants are not well distributed and form aggregates. The flame retardant (FR) efficiency of the different treatments on flax fabrics was evaluated using horizontal flame spread test. The following ranking of the different systems is obtained: TEOS + Additives > TEOS > TEOS + DEPTES ~ TEOS + DEPTES + APTES > multilayers. All the sol–gel coatings improve the flame retardant properties of the flax fabric, except the multilayer treatment. Based on these results, the three most efficient sol–gels were selected to prepare sol–gel-modified flax/PA11 composites. The composite modified with only TEOS showed the best FR properties. Surprisingly, the composite modified with the phosphorus-based flame retardant (AlPi) did not exhibit improved FR properties. This effect was attributed to the fact that the amount of the FR additive deposited on the fabrics was too low.
Sulforaphane Protects the Male Reproductive System of Mice from Obesity-Induced Damage: Involvement of Oxidative Stress and Autophagy
Authors: Huo Li , Su Yu , Xu Gaoyang , Zhai Lingling , Zhao Jian
Published: October 2019

(1) Background: In recent decades, the prevalence of obesity has grown rapidly worldwide, thus causing many diseases, including male hypogonadism. Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate compound, has been reported to protect the reproductive system. This research investigated the protective effect of SFN against obesity-induced impairment in the male reproductive system and explored the potential mechanism involved in mice. (2) Methods: One hundred thirty mice were divided into 5 groups (Control, DIO (diet-induced obesity), DIO + SFN 5 mg/kg, DIO + SFN 10 mg/kg, and DIO + SFN 20 mg/kg). The effects of SFN on the male reproductive system were determined based on the sperm count and motility, relative testes and epididymis weights, hormone levels, and pathological analyses. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), H2O2, catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) levels. Protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1), Microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3), Beclin1, and P62 were determined by western blotting. (3) Results: High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity significantly decreased relative testes and epididymis weights, sperm count and motility, and testosterone levels but increased leptin and estradiol levels. SFN supplementation ameliorated these effects. Additionally, SFN administration inhibited the obesity-induced MDA accumulation and increased the SOD level. Western blot indicated that SFN had an important role in the downregulation of Keap1. Moreover, SFN treatment attenuated obesity-induced autophagy, as detected by LC3 and Beclin1. (4) Conclusions: SFN ameliorated the reproductive toxicity associated with obesity by inhibiting oxidative stress mediated by the nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2/ antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE) signaling pathway and recovery of normal autophagy.