bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Wearable Cameras Be Used to Validate School-Aged Children’s Lifestyle Behaviours?
Authors: Everson Bethan , Mackintosh Kelly A. , McNarry Melitta A. , Todd Charlotte , Stratton Gareth
Published: February 2019

Wearable cameras combined with accelerometers have been used to estimate the accuracy of children’s self-report of physical activity, health-related behaviours, and the contexts in which they occur. There were two aims to this study; the first was to validate questions regarding self-reported health and lifestyle behaviours in 9–11-year-old children using the child’s health and activity tool (CHAT), an accelerometer and a wearable camera. Second, the study sought to evaluate ethical challenges associated with taking regular photographs using a wearable camera through interviews with children and their families. Fourteen children wore an autographer and hip-worn triaxial accelerometer for the waking hours of one school and one weekend day. For both of these days, children self-reported their behaviours chronologically and sequentially using the CHAT. Data were examined using limits of agreement and percentage agreement to verify if reference methods aligned with self-reported behaviours. Six parent–child dyads participated in interviews. Seven, five, and nine items demonstrated good, acceptable, and poor validity, respectively. This demonstrates that the accuracy of children’s recall varies according to the behaviour or item being measured. This is the first study to trial the use of wearable cameras in assessing the concurrent validity of children’s physical activity and behaviour recall, as almost all other studies have used parent proxy reports alongside accelerometers. Wearable cameras carry some ethical and technical challenges, which were examined in this study. Parents and children reported that the autographer was burdensome and in a few cases invaded privacy. This study demonstrates the importance of adhering to an ethical framework.
A Modeling Investigation of Northern Hemisphere Extratropical Cyclone Activity in Spring: The Linkage between Extreme Weather and Arctic Sea Ice Forcing
Authors: Basu Soumik , Zhang Xiangdong , Wang Zhaomin
Published: February 2019

Arctic sea ice exhibits rapid reductions and large fluctuations during recent decades in conjunction with a warming climate. Arctic sea ice shows a prominent seasonal cycle with the maximum extent in spring and the minimum extent in fall. In this study a suite of modeling experiments, which were solely forced with observed time-varying sea-ice concentration for spring 1979 to 2008 was conducted using NCAR’s Community Atmosphere Model to identify sea ice impacts on extratropical storms and associated surface climate parameters when they at the peak of their seasonal variability. Storms are the linkage between the large-scale circulation changes, forced by Arctic sea ice and local extreme weather events through strong winds, high precipitation, and high/low air temperature. In this study, a storm identification and tracking algorithm indicates that reduced sea-ice cover enhances Arctic storm activity. As a consequence, surface climate parameters such as surface air temperature (SAT) and precipitation increases in spring over the Arctic. The changes in the Arctic have a direct and indirect effect on the extratropical storm activity over the mid-latitudes. In contrast to the Arctic, storm activity weakens over Eurasia in the years with less sea ice. Further analysis of the surface climate indicates a warmer and dryer Eurasia for years with reduced sea ice.
Finite Element Analysis of the 3ω Method for Characterising High Thermal Conductivity Ultra-Thin Film/Substrate System
Authors: Liu Weidong , Zhang Liangchi , Moridi Alireza
Published: February 2019

The 3ω method is an attractive technique for measuring the thermal conductivity of materials; but it cannot characterise high thermal conductivity ultra-thin film/substrate systems because of the deep heat penetration depth. Recently, a modified 3ω method with a nano-strip was specifically developed for high thermal conductivity thin film systems. This paper aims to evaluate the applicability of this method with the aid of the finite element analysis. To this end, a numerical platform of the modified 3ω method was established and applied to a bulk silicon and an AlN thin-film/Si substrate system. The numerical results were compared with the predictions of theoretical models used in the 3ω method. The study thus concluded that the modified 3ω method is suitable for characterising high thermal conductivity ultra-thin film/substrate systems.
Development of a Polyacrylate/Silica Nanoparticle Hybrid Emulsion for Delaying Nutrient Release in Coated Controlled-Release Urea
Authors: Shen Yazhen , Zhou Jianmin , Du Changwen
Published: February 2019

Polyacrylate/silica hybrid emulsions were prepared by blending aqueous silica nanoparticles with polyacrylate emulsion, which were used for coating urea granules. After incorporating 1.0 wt.% silica nanoparticles into polyacrylate emulsion, preliminary solubility of CRU was decreased from 38.3% to 2.2%, and the release duration was extended from 8 to 27 days. The hybrid coating remarkably delayed the release of urea via improving wear-resistance due to the enhanced hardness, reducing water vapor permeability because of the tortuous diffusion pathway, and less breakage of CRU granules resulted from higher glass transition temperature. Meanwhile, the processibility was improved, which prevented particle agglomeration during coating. Therefore, aqueous silica nanoparticles have potential application in polymer emulsion coated controlled-release fertilizers.
Practical Formulation Science for Particle-Based Inks
Authors: Abbott Steven
Published: February 2019

There is a big gap between idealized colloid science and the needs of a printing ink formulator. This often leads to formulations based on intuition and experience rather than good science. By bringing together the most relevant colloid and interface science with the capabilities of modern apps, it is possible to bridge the gap between theory and reality to the benefit of both the colloid science community and those who need the science to improve their formulations. The process of making current science usable also exposes the limitations of available theories. This suggests a methodology for highlighting the grand challenges to the colloid science research community, including the challenge of making any new science more usable.
Biogenic Volatiles Emitted from Four Cold-Hardy Grape Cultivars During Ripening
Authors: Rice Somchai , Maurer Devin L. , Fennell Anne , Dharmadhikari Murlidhar , Koziel Jacek A.
Published: February 2019

In this research dataset, we summarize for the first time volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted in vivo from ripening wine grapes. We studied four cold-hardy cultivars grown in the Midwestern U.S.: St. Croix, Frontenac, Marquette, and La Crescent. These cultivars have gained popularity among local growers and winemakers, but still very little is known about their performance compared with long-established V. vinifera grapes. Volatiles were collected using two novel approaches: biogenic emissions from grape clusters on a vine and single grape berries. A third approach was headspace collection of volatiles from crushed grapes. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) was used to collect volatiles. Vacuum-assisted SPME was used in the case of single grape berry. Collected VOCs were analyzed using separation and identification on a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (GC-MS). More than 120 VOCs were identified using mass spectral libraries. The dataset provides evidence that detecting biogenic emissions from growing grapes is feasible. The dataset provides a record of temporal and spatial variability of VOCs, many of which could potentially impart aroma and flavor in the wine. The number of VOCs detected followed the order from single berry (the least) to crushed berry (the most). Thus, more information for potential use in harvesting in order to obtain the desired flavor is found in data from crushed grapes.
Entropy Generation in MHD Mixed Convection Non-Newtonian Second-Grade Nanoliquid Thin Film Flow through a Porous Medium with Chemical Reaction and Stratification
Authors: Khan Noor Saeed , Shah Zahir , Islam Saeed , Khan Ilyas , Alkanhal Tawfeeq Abdullah , Tlili Iskander
Published: February 2019

Chemical reaction in mixed convection magnetohydrodynamic second grade nanoliquid thin film flow through a porous medium containing nanoparticles and gyrotactic microorganisms is considered with entropy generation. The stratification phenomena, heat and mass transfer simultaneously take place within system. Microorganisms are utilized to stabilize the suspended nanoparticles through bioconvection. For the chemical reaction of species, the mass transfer increases. The governing equations of the problem are transformed to nonlinear differential equations through similarity variables, which are solved through a well known scheme called homotopy analysis method. The solution is expressed through graphs and illustrations which show the influences of all the parameters. The residual error graphs elucidate the authentication of the present work.
Detrended Correlation Coefficients Between Exchange Rate (in Dollars) and Stock Markets in the World’s Largest Economies
Authors: Ferreira Paulo , Silva Marcus Fernandes da , Santana Idaraí Santos de
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this paper is to verify the long-range correlation between the stock markets of the largest economies in the world and the respective exchange rate with the USD. According to theory, a negative correlation is expected, meaning that an increase in the return of one of the assets will cause a decrease in the return of the other. Using detrended cross-correlation and detrended moving average cross-correlation analyses and the respective correlation coefficients, we analysed this possibility, analysing behaviour according to different time scales. Our main results showed that in European markets, the exchange rate does not have a significant effect. This significant effect just occurs in the case of the Indian stock market, while in the case of the Japanese one, the relationship is positive. Japanese authorities’ monetary policy could be the reason for this different result.
Towards a Smarter Battery Management System for Electric Vehicle Applications: A Critical Review of Lithium-Ion Battery State of Charge Estimation
Authors: Ali Muhammad Umair , Zafar Amad , Nengroo Sarvar Hussain , Hussain Sadam , Junaid Alvi Muhammad , Kim Hee-Je
Published: February 2019

Energy storage system (ESS) technology is still the logjam for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have attracted considerable attention in the EV industry owing to their high energy density, lifespan, nominal voltage, power density, and cost. In EVs, a smart battery management system (BMS) is one of the essential components; it not only measures the states of battery accurately, but also ensures safe operation and prolongs the battery life. The accurate estimation of the state of charge (SOC) of a Li-ion battery is a very challenging task because the Li-ion battery is a highly time variant, non-linear, and complex electrochemical system. This paper explains the workings of a Li-ion battery, provides the main features of a smart BMS, and comprehensively reviews its SOC estimation methods. These SOC estimation methods have been classified into four main categories depending on their nature. A critical explanation, including their merits, limitations, and their estimation errors from other studies, is provided. Some recommendations depending on the development of technology are suggested to improve the online estimation.
Real-Time Simulation of Torque and Nitrogen Oxide Emissions in an 11.0 L Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine for Model-Based Combustion Control
Authors: Finesso Roberto , Hardy Gilles , Mancarella Alessandro , Marello Omar , Mittica Antonio , Spessa Ezio
Published: February 2019

A real-time combustion model was assessed and applied to simulate BMEP (Brake Mean Effective Pressure) and NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) emissions in an 11.0 L FPT Cursor 11 diesel engine for heavy-duty applications. The activity was carried out in the frame of the IMPERIUM H2020 EU Project. The developed model was used as a starting base to derive a model-based combustion controller, which is able to control indicated mean effective pressure and NOx emissions by acting on the injected fuel quantity and main injection timing. The combustion model was tested and assessed at steady-state conditions and in transient operation over several load ramps. The average root mean square error of the model is of the order of 110 ppm for the NOx simulation and of 0.3 bar for the BMEP simulation Moreover, a statistical robustness analysis was performed on the basis of the expected input parameter deviations, and a calibration sensitivity analysis was carried out, which showed that the accuracy is almost unaffected when reducing the calibration dataset by about 80%. The model was also tested on a rapid prototyping device and it was verified that it features real-time capability, since the computational time is of the order of 300–400 µs. Finally, the basic functionality of the model-based combustion controller was tested offline at steady-state conditions.
Analyzing the Energy Consumption, GHG Emission, and Cost of Seawater Desalination in China
Authors: Jia Xuexiu , Klemeš Jiří Jaromír , Varbanov Petar Sabev , Wan Alwi Sharifah Rafidah
Published: February 2019

Seawater desalination is considered a technique with high water supply potential and has become an emerging alternative for freshwater supply in China. The increase of the capacity also increases energy consumption and greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, which has not been well investigated in studies. This study has analyzed the current development of seawater desalination in China, including the capacity, distribution, processes, as well as the desalted water use. Energy consumption and GHG emissions of overall desalination in China, as well as for the provinces, are calculated covering the period of 2006–2016. The unit product cost of seawater desalination plants specifying processes is also estimated. The results showed that 1) The installed capacity maintained increased from 2006 to 2016, and reverse osmosis is the major process used for seawater desalination in China. 2) The energy consumption increased from 81 MWh/y to 1,561 MWh/y during the 11 years. The overall GHG emission increase from 85 Mt CO2eq/y to 1,628 Mt CO2eq/y. Tianjin had the largest GHG emissions, following are Hebei and Shandong, with emissions of 4.1 Mt CO2eq/y, 2.2 Mt CO2eq/y. and 1.0 Mt CO2eq/y. 3) The unit product cost of seawater desalination is higher than other water supply alternatives, and it differentiates the desalination processes. The average unit product cost of the reverse osmosis process is 0.96 USD and 2.5 USD for the multiple-effect distillation process. The potential for future works should specify different energy forms, e.g. heat and power. Alternatives of process integration should be investigated—e.g. efficiency of using the energy, heat integration, and renewables in water desalination, as well as the utilization of total site heat integration.
Impedance-Based Interactions in Grid-Tied Three-Phase Inverters in Renewable Energy Applications
Authors: Suntio Teuvo , Messo Tuomas , Berg Matias , Alenius Henrik , Reinikka Tommi , Luhtala Roni , Zenger Kai
Published: February 2019

Impedance-ratio-based interaction analyses in terms of stability and performance of DC-DC converters is well established. Similar methods are applied to grid-connected three-phase converters as well, but the multivariable nature of the converters and the grid makes these analyses very complex. This paper surveys the state of the interaction analyses in the grid-connected three-phase converters, which are used in renewable-energy applications. The surveys show clearly that the impedance-ratio-based stability assessment are usually performed neglecting the cross-couplings between the impedance elements for reducing the complexity of the analyses. In addition, the interactions, which affect the transient performance, are not treated usually at all due to the missing of the corresponding analytic formulations. This paper introduces the missing formulations as well as explicitly showing that the cross-couplings of the impedance elements have to be taken into account for the stability assessment to be valid. In addition, this paper shows that the most accurate stability information can be obtained by means of the determinant related to the associated multivariable impedance ratio. The theoretical findings are also validated by extensive experimental measurements.
An Optimization Model for Construction Stage and Zone Plans of Rockfill Dams Based on the Enhanced Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhong Denghua , Zhao Mengqi , Yu Jia , Lv Fei
Published: February 2019

Rockfill dams are among the most complex, significant, and costly infrastructure projects of great national importance. A key issue in their design is the construction stage and zone optimization. However, a detailed flow shop construction scheme that considers the opinions of decision makers cannot be obtained using the current rock-fill dam construction stage and zone optimization methods, and the robustness and efficiency of existing construction stage and zone optimization approaches are not sufficient. This research presents a construction stage and zone optimization model based on a data-driven analytical hierarchy process extended by D numbers (D-AHP) and an enhanced whale optimization algorithm (EWOA). The flow shop construction scheme is optimized by presenting an automatic flow shop construction scheme multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) method, which integrates the data-driven D-AHP with an improved construction simulation of a high rockfill dam (CSHRD). The EWOA, which uses Levy flight to improve the robustness and efficiency of the whale optimization algorithm (WOA), is adopted for optimization. This proposed model is implemented to optimize the construction stages and zones while obtaining a preferable flow shop construction scheme. The effectiveness and advantages of the model are proven by an example of a large-scale rockfill dam.
A Multi-Agent System for Smart Energy Management Devoted to Vehicle Applications: Realistic Dynamic Hybrid Electric System Using Hydrogen as a Fuel
Authors: Sami Benslama , Sihem Nasri , Gherairi Salsabil , Adnane Cherif
Published: February 2019

Real-time simulation test beds for new zero-emission hybrid electric vehicles are considered as an attractive challenge for future transport applications that are fully recommended in the laboratory environment. In contrast, new zero-emission hybrid electric vehicles have a more complicated charging procedure. For this reason, an efficient simulation tools development for hydrogen consumption control becomes critical. In this vein, a New Zero Emission Hybrid Electric Vehicle Simulation (NZE-HEVSim) tool for the dynamic Fuel Cell Hybrid-Electric System is proposed to smartly control multisource activities. The designed system consists of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell used to provide the required energy demand and a Supercapacitor system for energy recovery assistance in load peak or in fast transient. To regulate the supplied power, an efficient Real-Time Embedded Intelligent Energy Management (RT-EM-IEM) is implemented and tested through various constraints. The proposed intelligent energy management system aims to act quickly against sudden circumstances related to hydrogen depletion in the basis required fuel consumption prediction using multi-agent system (MAS). The proposed MAS strategy aims to define the proper operating agent according to energy demand and supply. The obtained results prove that the designed system meets the objectives set for RT-EM-IEM by referring to an experimental velocity database.
Contribution of the Web of Things and of the Opportunistic Computing to the Smart Agriculture: A Practical Experiment
Authors: Touseau Lionel , Le Sommer Nicolas
Published: February 2019

With the emergence of the Internet of Things, environmental sensing has been gaining interest, promising to improve agricultural practices by facilitating decision-making based on gathered environmental data (i.e., weather forecasting, crop monitoring, and soil moisture sensing). Environmental sensing, and by extension what is referred to as precision or smart agriculture, pose new challenges, especially regarding the collection of environmental data in the presence of connectivity disruptions, their gathering, and their exploitation by end-users or by systems that must perform actions according to the values of those collected data. In this paper, we present a middleware platform for the Internet of Things that implements disruption tolerant opportunistic networking and computing techniques, and that makes it possible to expose and manage physical objects through Web-based protocols, standards and technologies, thus providing interoperability between objects and creating a Web of Things (WoT). This WoT-based opportunistic computing approach is backed up by a practical experiment whose outcomes are presented in this article.
Metagenome Profiling Identifies Potential Biocontrol Agents for Selaginella kraussiana in New Zealand
Authors: Dang Zhenhua , McLenachan Patricia A. , Lockhart Peter J. , Waipara Nick , Er Orhan , Reynolds Christy , Blanchon Dan
Published: February 2019

Metagenomics can be used to identify potential biocontrol agents for invasive species and was used here to identify candidate species for biocontrol of an invasive club moss in New Zealand. Profiles were obtained for Selaginella kraussiana collected from nine geographically disjunct locations in Northern New Zealand. These profiles were distinct from those obtained for the exotic club moss Selaginella moellendorffii and the native club mosses Lycopodium deuterodensum and Lycopodium volubile also collected in Northern New Zealand. Fungi and bacteria implicated elsewhere in causing plant disease were identified on plants of Selaginella that exhibited signs of necrosis. Most notably, high densities of sequence reads from Xanthomonas translucens and Pseudomonas syringae were associated with some populations of Selaginella but not Lycopodium. Since these bacteria are already in use as biocontrol agents elsewhere, further investigation into their potential as biocontrol of Selaginella in New Zealand is suggested.
Effects of Biochar on Container Substrate Properties and Growth of Plants—A Review
Authors: Huang Lan , Gu Mengmeng
Published: February 2019

Biochar refers to a processed, carbon-rich material made from biomass. This article provides a brief summary on the effects of biochar on container substrate properties and plant growth. Biochar could be produced through pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrothermal carbonization of various feedstocks. Biochar produced through different production conditions and feedstocks affect its properties and how it performs when incorporated in container substrates. Biochar incorporation affects the physical and chemical properties of container substrates, including bulk density, total porosity, container capacity, nutrient availability, pH, electrical conductivity and cation exchange capacity. Biochar could also affect microbial activities. The effects of biochar incorporation on plant growth in container substrates depend on biochar properties, plant type, percentage of biochar applied and other container substrates components mixed with biochar. A review of the literature on the impact of biochar on container-grown plants without other factors (such as irrigation or fertilization rates) indicated that 77.3% of the studies found that certain percentages of biochar addition in container substrates promoted plant growth, and 50% of the studies revealed that plant growth decreased due to certain percentages of biochar incorporation. Most of the plants tested in these studies were herbaceous plants. More plant species should be tested for a broader assessment of the use of biochar. Toxic substances (heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and dioxin) in biochars used in container substrates has rarely been studied. Caution is needed when selecting feedstocks and setting up biochar production conditions, which might cause toxic contaminants in the biochar products that could have negative effects on plant growth.
Uncertainty in Catchment Delineations as a Result of Digital Elevation Model Choice
Authors: Keys Laura , Baade Jussi
Published: February 2019

Nine digital elevation model (DEM) datasets were used for separate delineations of the Nam Co, Tibet catchment and its subcatchments, and these delineated areas were compared using the highest resolution dataset, TanDEM-X 12 m, as a baseline. The mean delineated catchment area was within 0.1% percent of the baseline delineation, with a standard error of the mean (SEM) that was 0.13% of the baseline. In a comparison of 49 subcatchment areas, TanDEM-X and ALOS datasets delineated similar areas, followed closely by SRTM 30 m, then SRTM 90 m, ACE2, and ASTER GDEM1. ASTER GDEM2 was a noteworthy outlier, having the largest mean subcatchment area that was nearly three times that of the baseline mean. Correlation coefficients were calculated for subcatchment parameters, SEM, and each DEM’s subcatchment area error. SEM had a weak but significant negative correlation with the mean and median slope. ASTER GDEM1 and GDEM2 were the only datasets that showed any significant correlations with the subcatchment environment variables, though these correlations were also weak. The 30 m posting ASTER GDEMs performed worse against the baseline than the other 30 m and 90 m datasets, showing that posting alone does not determine how good a dataset is. Our results show general small errors for catchment delineations, though there is the possibility for large errors, particularly in the older ASTER and SRTM datasets.
Re-Arranging Space, Time and Scales in GIS: Alternative Models for Multi-Scale Spatio-Temporal Modeling and Analyses
Authors: Qiang Yi , Van de Weghe Nico
Published: February 2019

The representations of space and time are fundamental issues in GIScience. In prevalent GIS and analytical systems, time is modeled as a linear stream of real numbers and space is represented as flat layers with timestamps. Despite their dominance in GIS and information visualization, these representations are inefficient for visualizing data with complex temporal and spatial extents and the variation of data at multiple temporal and spatial scales. This article presents alternative representations that incorporate the scale dimension into time and space. The article first reviews a series of work about the triangular model (TM), which is a multi-scale temporal model. Then, it introduces the pyramid model (PM), which is the extension of the TM for spatial data, and demonstrates the utility of the PM in visualizing multi-scale spatial patterns of land cover data. Finally, it discusses the potential of integrating the TM and the PM into a unified framework for multi-scale spatio-temporal modeling. This article systematically documents the models with alternative arrangements of space and time and their applications in analyzing different types of data. Additionally, this article aims to inspire the re-thinking of organizations of space, time, and scales in the future development of GIS and analytical tools to handle the increasing quantity and complexity of spatio-temporal data.
α-Lipoic Acid Reduces Iron-induced Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in a Model of Iron Overload
Authors: Camiolo Giuseppina , Tibullo Daniele , Giallongo Cesarina , Romano Alessandra , Parrinello Nunziatina L. , Musumeci Giuseppe , Di Rosa Michelino , Vicario Nunzio , Brundo Maria V. , Amenta Francesco , Ferrante Margherita , Copat Chiara , Avola Roberto , Li Volti Giovanni , Salvaggio Antonio , Di Raimondo Francesco , Palumbo Giuseppe A.
Published: February 2019

Iron toxicity is associated with organ injury and has been reported in various clinical conditions, such as hemochromatosis, thalassemia major, and myelodysplastic syndromes. Therefore, iron chelation therapy represents a pivotal therapy for these patients during their lifetime. The aim of the present study was to assess the iron chelating properties of α-lipoic acid (ALA) and how such an effect impacts on iron overload mediated toxicity. Human mesenchymal stem cells (HS-5) and animals (zebrafish, n = 10 for each group) were treated for 24 h with ferric ammonium citrate (FAC, 120 µg/mL) in the presence or absence of ALA (20 µg/mL). Oxidative stress was evaluated by reduced glutathione content, reactive oxygen species formation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and gene expression of heme oxygenase-1b and mitochondrial superoxide dismutase; organ injury, iron accumulation, and autophagy were measured by microscopical, cytofluorimetric analyses, and inductively coupled plasma‒optical mission Spectrometer (ICP-OES). Our results showed that FAC results in a significant increase of tissue iron accumulation, oxidative stress, and autophagy and such detrimental effects were reversed by ALA treatment. In conclusion, ALA possesses excellent iron chelating properties that may be exploited in a clinical setting for organ preservation, as well as exhibiting a good safety profile and low cost for the national health system.
TUDCA-Treated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect against ER Stress in the Hippocampus of a Murine Chronic Kidney Disease Model
Authors: Lee Jun Hee , Yoon Yeo Min , Lee Sang Hun
Published: February 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to the loss of kidney function, as well as the dysfunction of several other organs due to the release of uremic toxins into the system. In a murine CKD model, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are increased in the hippocampus. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are one of the candidates for cell-based therapy for CKD; however severe pathophysiological conditions can decrease their therapeutic potential. To address these issues, we established tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA)-treated MSCs using MSCs isolated from patients with CKD (CKD-hMSCs) and assessed the survival and ROS generation of neural cell line SH-SY5Y cells by co-culturing with TUDCA-treated CKD-hMSCs. In the presence of the uremic toxin P-cresol, the death of SH-SY5Y cells was induced by ROS-mediated ER stress. Co-culture with TUDCA-treated CKD-hMSCs increased anti-oxidant enzyme activities in SH-SY5Y cells through the upregulation of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) expression. Upregulated PrPC expression in SH-SY5Y cells protected against CKD-mediated ER stress and apoptosis. In an adenine-induced murine CKD model, injection with TUDCA-treated CKD-hMSCs suppressed ROS generation and ER stress in the hippocampus. These results indicate that TUDCA-treated CKD-hMSCs prevent the CKD-mediated cell death of SH-SY5Y cells by inhibiting ER stress. Our study suggests that treatment with TUDCA could be a powerful strategy for developing autologous MSC-based therapeutics for patients with CKD, and that PrPC might be a pivotal target for protecting neural cells from CKD-mediated ER stress.
Transcriptional Profile of Aedes aegypti Leucine-Rich Repeat Proteins in Response to Zika and Chikungunya Viruses
Authors: Zhao Liming , Alto Barry W. , Shin Dongyoung
Published: February 2019

Aedes aegypti (L.) is the primary vector of chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika viruses. The leucine-rich repeats (LRR)-containing domain is evolutionarily conserved in many proteins associated with innate immunity in invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as plants. We focused on the AaeLRIM1 and AaeAPL1 gene expressions in response to Zika virus (ZIKV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection using a time course study, as well as the developmental expressions in the eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. RNA-seq analysis data provided 60 leucine-rich repeat related transcriptions in Ae. aegypti in response to Zika virus (Accession number: GSE118858, accessed on: August 22, 2018, GEO DataSets). RNA-seq analysis data showed that AaeLRIM1 (AAEL012086-RA) and AaeAPL1 (AAEL009520-RA) were significantly upregulated 2.5 and 3-fold during infection by ZIKV 7-days post infection (dpi) of an Ae. aegypti Key West strain compared to an Orlando strain. The qPCR data showed that LRR-containing proteins related genes, AaeLRIM1 and AaeAPL1, and five paralogues were expressed 100-fold lower than other nuclear genes, such as defensin, during all developmental stages examined. Together, these data provide insights into the transcription profiles of LRR proteins of Ae. aegypti during its development and in response to infection with emergent arboviruses.
Mechanisms of Developmental Toxicity of Dioxins and Related Compounds
Authors: Yoshioka Wataru , Tohyama Chiharu
Published: February 2019

Dioxins and related compounds induce morphological abnormalities in developing animals in an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-dependent manner. Here we review the studies in which 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is used as a prototypical compound to elucidate the pathogenesis of morphological abnormalities. TCDD-induced cleft palate in fetal mice involves a delay in palatogenesis and dissociation of fused palate shelves. TCDD-induced hydronephrosis, once considered to be caused by the anatomical obstruction of the ureter, is now separated into TCDD-induced obstructive and non-obstructive hydronephrosis, which develops during fetal and neonatal periods, respectively. In the latter, a prostaglandin E2 synthesis pathway and urine concentration system are involved. TCDD-induced abnormal development of prostate involves agenesis of the ventral lobe. A suggested mechanism is that AhR activation in the urogenital sinus mesenchyme by TCDD modulates the wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT)/β-catenin signaling cascade to interfere with budding from urogenital sinus epithelium. TCDD exposure to zebrafish embryos induces loss of epicardium progenitor cells and heart malformation. AHR2-dependent downregulation of Sox9b expression in cardiomyocytes is a suggested underlying mechanism. TCDD-induced craniofacial malformation in zebrafish is considered to result from the AHR2-dependent reduction in SRY-box 9b (SOX9b), probably partly via the noncoding RNA slincR, resulting in the underdevelopment of chondrocytes and cartilage.
Translational Control of Canonical and Non-Canonical Translation Initiation Factors at the Sea Urchin Egg to Embryo Transition
Authors: Chassé Héloïse , Boulben Sandrine , Cormier Patrick , Morales Julia
Published: February 2019

Sea urchin early development is a powerful model to study translational regulation under physiological conditions. Fertilization triggers an activation of the translation machinery responsible for the increase of protein synthesis necessary for the completion of the first embryonic cell cycles. The cap-binding protein eIF4E, the helicase eIF4A and the large scaffolding protein eIF4G are assembled upon fertilization to form an initiation complex on mRNAs involved in cap-dependent translation initiation. The presence of these proteins in unfertilized and fertilized eggs has already been demonstrated, however data concerning the translational status of translation factors are still scarce. Using polysome fractionation, we analyzed the impact of fertilization on the recruitment of mRNAs encoding initiation factors. Strikingly, whereas the mRNAs coding eIF4E, eIF4A, and eIF4G were not recruited into polysomes at 1 h post-fertilization, mRNAs for eIF4B and for non-canonical initiation factors such as DAP5, eIF4E2, eIF4E3, or hnRNP Q, are recruited and are differentially sensitive to the activation state of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. We discuss our results suggesting alternative translation initiation in the context of the early development of sea urchins.
Association of the Inactive Circulating Matrix Gla Protein with Vitamin K Intake, Calcification, Mortality, and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review
Authors: Roumeliotis Stefanos , Dounousi Evangelia , Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: February 2019

Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), a small Gla vitamin K-dependent protein, is the most powerful natural occurring inhibitor of calcification in the human body. To become biologically active, MGP must undergo vitamin K-dependent carboxylation and phosphorylation. Vitamin K deficiency leads to the inactive uncarboxylated, dephosphorylated form of MGP (dpucMGP). We aimed to review the existing data on the association between circulating dpucMGP and vascular calcification, renal function, mortality, and cardiovascular disease in distinct populations. Moreover, the association between vitamin K supplementation and serum levels of dpucMGP was also reviewed.
Polysaccharides from the Edible Mushroom Agaricus bitorquis (Quél.) Sacc. Chaidam Show Anti-hypoxia Activities in Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Jiao Yingchun , Kuang Hui , Wu Jianan , Chen Qihe
Published: February 2019

Three kinds of new water-soluble polysaccharides (FA, FB and FC) were isolated from wild mushroom Agaricus bitorquis (Quél.) Sacc. Chaidam by the classical method “water extraction and alcohol precipitation” and purified by column chromatography. The Mw of FA, FB and FC ranged from 5690 Da to 38,340 Da. The three polysaccharide fractions in the fruiting body were mainly composed of 4 kinds of monosaccharides, including glucose, galactose, mannose, and arabinose, among which glucose and galactose were the major monosaccharides. The FTIR and NMR spectroscopy indicated that the skeleton of three fractions composed of a (1→4)-α-D-glycosidic backbone containing α-D-mannopyranose. In vitro anti-hypoxia activity data showed that three polysaccharide fractions possessed a significant effect on inhibiting PASM cells apoptosis under hypoxia. Among them, FC at the concentration of 200 µg/mL revealed a significant anti-hypoxia effect. These results revealed that the intracellular polysaccharides possessed potent anti-hypoxic activity, which might be related to inhibiting LDH and NADPH oxidase expression and promoting the formation of 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine, endothelins, acetylcholine. More importantly, FC showed good performance inducing KV1.5 expression and prohibiting KIR6.2 formation at protein level.
Tracing the Pathways of Waters and Protons in Photosystem II and Cytochrome c Oxidase
Authors: Kaur Divya , Cai Xiuhong , Khaniya Umesh , Zhang Yingying , Mao Junjun , Mandal Manoj , Gunner Marilyn R.
Published: February 2019

Photosystem II (PSII) uses water as the terminal electron donor, producing oxygen in the Mn4CaO5 oxygen evolving complex (OEC), while cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) reduces O2 to water in its heme–Cu binuclear center (BNC). Each protein is oriented in the membrane to add to the proton gradient. The OEC, which releases protons, is located near the P-side (positive, at low-pH) of the membrane. In contrast, the BNC is in the middle of CcO, so the protons needed for O2 reduction must be transferred from the N-side (negative, at high pH). In addition, CcO pumps protons from N- to P-side, coupled to the O2 reduction chemistry, to store additional energy. Thus, proton transfers are directly coupled to the OEC and BNC redox chemistry, as well as needed for CcO proton pumping. The simulations that study the changes in proton affinity of the redox active sites and the surrounding protein at different states of the reaction cycle, as well as the changes in hydration that modulate proton transfer paths, are described.
Analysis of Salivary Glands and Saliva from Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti Infected with Chikungunya Viruses
Authors: Sanchez-Vargas Irma , Harrington Laura C. , Black William C. , Olson Ken E.
Published: February 2019

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a medically important mosquito-borne virus transmitted to humans by infected Aedes (Stegomyia) species. In 2013–2014, Ae. aegypti transmitted CHIKV to humans in the Caribbean and in 2005–2006, Ae. albopictus transmitted CHIKV on La Réunion Island (Indian Ocean basin). CHIKV LR2006 OPY1 from the La Réunion epidemic was associated with a mutation (E1:A226V) in the viral E1 glycoprotein that enhanced CHIKV transmission by Ae. albopictus. CHIKV R99659 from the Caribbean outbreak did not have the E1:A226V mutation. Here, we analyzed the salivary glands and saliva of Ae. albopictus strains from New Jersey, Florida, Louisiana and La Réunion after infection with each virus to determine their transmission potential. We infected the Ae. albopictus strains with blood meals containing 3–7 × 107 PFU/mL of each virus and analyzed the mosquitoes nine days later to maximize infection of their salivary glands. All four Ae. albopictus strains were highly susceptible to LR2006 OPY1 and R99659 viruses and their CHIKV disseminated infection rates (DIR) were statistically similar (p = 0.3916). The transmission efficiency rate (TER) was significantly lower for R99659 virus compared to LR2006 OPY1 virus in all Ae. albopictus strains and Ae. aegypti (Poza Rica) (p = 0.012) suggesting a salivary gland exit barrier to R99659 virus not seen with LR2006 OPY1 infections. If introduced, LR2006 OPY1 virus poses an increased risk of transmission by both Aedes species in the western hemisphere.
Fluorescent Pan Traps Affect the Capture Rate of Insect Orders in Different Ways
Authors: Shrestha Mani , Garcia Jair , Chua Justin , Howard Scarlett , Tscheulin Thomas , Dorin Alan , Nielsen Anders , Dyer Adrian
Published: February 2019

To monitor and quantify the changes in pollinator communities over time, it is important to have robust survey techniques of insect populations. Pan traps allow for the assessment of the relative insect abundance in an environment and have been promoted by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) as an efficient data collection methodology. It has been proposed that fluorescent pan traps are particularly useful, as it has been suggested that they capture high numbers of insects in an unbiased fashion. We use a simultaneous presentation of fluorescent and non-fluorescent pan trap colours to assess how flower-visiting insects of different orders respond to visual stimuli and reveal a significant interaction between trap fluorescence and captured insect type. In particular, Coleoptera (beetles) and Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) were captured significantly more frequently by fluorescent traps, whilst Dipterans (flies) were captured significantly less frequently by this type of pan trap. Hymenopterans (bees and wasps) showed no significant difference in their preference for fluorescent or non-fluorescent traps. Our results reveal that the use of fluorescent pan traps may differently bias insect capture rates when compared to the typical experience of colour flower-visiting insects in natural environments. Correction factors may, therefore, be required for interpreting insect pan trap data collected with different methodologies.
Proteomic Analysis of the Venom from the Ruby Ant Myrmica rubra and the Isolation of a Novel Insecticidal Decapeptide
Authors: Heep John , Klaus Alica , Kessel Tobias , Seip Maximilian , Vilcinskas Andreas , Skaljac Marisa
Published: February 2019

Ants are a biodiverse group of insects that have evolved toxic venom containing many undiscovered bioactive molecules. In this study, we found that the venom of the ruby ant Myrmica rubra is a rich source of peptides. LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 142 different peptides varying in molecular weight, sequence length, and hydrophobicity. One of the most abundant peaks was selected for further biochemical and functional characterization. Combined Edman degradation and de novo peptide sequencing revealed the presence of a novel decapeptide (myrmicitoxin) with the amino acid sequence NH2-IDPKLLESLA-CONH2. The decapeptide was named U-MYRTX-MRArub1 and verified against a synthetic standard. The amidated peptide was tested in a synthetic form to determine the antimicrobial activity towards the bacterial pathogens and insecticidal potential against pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum). This peptide did not show antimicrobial activity but it significantly reduced the survival of aphids. It also increased the sensitivity of the aphids to two commonly used chemical insecticides (imidacloprid and methomyl). Since ant venom research is still in its infancy, the findings of this first study on venom peptides derived from M. rubra highlight these insects as an important and rich source for discovery of novel lead structures with potential application in pest control.
Attraction of Female Aedes aegypti (L.) to Aphid Honeydew
Authors: Peach Daniel A. H. , Gries Regine , Young Nathan , Lakes Robyn , Galloway Erin , Alamsetti Santosh Kumar , Ko Elton , Ly Amy , Gries Gerhard
Published: February 2019

Plant sugar is an essential dietary constituent for mosquitoes, and hemipteran honeydew is one of the many forms of plant sugar that is important to mosquitoes. Many insects rely on volatile honeydew semiochemicals to locate aphids or honeydew itself. Mosquitoes exploit volatile semiochemicals to locate sources of plant sugar but their attraction to honeydew has not previously been investigated. Here, we report the attraction of female yellow fever mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti, to honeydew odorants from the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, and the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum, feeding on fava bean, Vicia faba. We used solid phase micro-extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to collect and analyze headspace odorants from the honeydew of A. pisum feeding on V. faba. An eight-component synthetic blend of these odorants and synthetic odorant blends of crude and sterile honeydew that we prepared according to literature data all attracted female A. aegypti. The synthetic blend containing microbial odor constituents proved more effective than the blend without these constituents. Our study provides the first evidence for anemotactic attraction of mosquitoes to honeydew and demonstrates a role for microbe-derived odorants in the attraction of mosquitoes to essential plant sugar resources.
Effect of HIP Treatment on Microstructure and Fatigue Strength of Selectively Laser Melted AlSi10Mg
Authors: Schneller Wolfgang , Leitner Martin , Springer Sebastian , Grün Florian , Taschauer Michael
Published: February 2019

This study shows the effect of hot isostatic pressing (HIP) on the porosity and the microstructure, as well as the corresponding fatigue strength of selectively-laser-melted (SLM) AlSi10Mg structures. To eliminate the influence of the as-built surface, all specimens are machined and exhibit a polished surface. To highlight the effect of the HIP treatment, the HIP specimens are compared to a test series without any post-treatment. The fatigue characteristic is evaluated by tension-compression high cycle fatigue tests under a load stress ratio of R = −1. The influence of HIP on the microstructural characteristics is investigated by utilizing scanning electron microscopy of micrographs of selected samples. In order to study the failure mechanism and the fatigue crack origin, a fracture surface analysis is carried out. It is found that, due to the HIP process and subsequent annealing, there is a beneficial effect on the microstructure regarding the fatigue crack propagation, such as Fe-rich precipitates and silicon agglomerations. This leads, combined with a significant reduction of global porosity and a decrease of micro pore sizes, to an improved fatigue resistance for the HIPed condition compared to the other test series within this study.