bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bayesian Belief Network Approach to Predict Damages Caused by Disturbance Agents
Authors: Radl Alfred , Lexer Manfred , Vacik Harald
Published: December 2017

In mountain forests of Central Europe, storm and snow breakage as well as bark beetles are the prevailing major disturbances. The complex interrelatedness between climate, disturbance agents, and forest management increases the need for an integrative approach explicitly addressing the multiple interactions between environmental changes, forest management, and disturbance agents to support forest resource managers in adaptive management. Empirical data with a comprehensive coverage for modelling the susceptibility of forests and the impact of disturbance agents are rare, thus making probabilistic models, based on expert knowledge, one of the few modelling approaches that are able to handle uncertainties due to the available information. Bayesian belief networks (BBNs) are a kind of probabilistic graphical model that has become very popular to practitioners and scientists mainly due to considerations of risk and uncertainties. In this contribution, we present a development methodology to define and parameterize BBNs based on expert elicitation and approximation. We modelled storm and bark beetle disturbances agents, analyzed effects of the development methodology on model structure, and evaluated behavior with stand data from Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) forests in southern Austria. The high vulnerability of the case study area according to different disturbance agents makes it particularly suitable for testing the BBN model.
Understanding Constraints and Triggering Factors of Landslides: Regional and Local Perspectives on a Drainage Basin
Authors: Jesus Carlos , Oliveira Sérgio , Sena Clara , Marques Fernando
Published: December 2017

The Grande da Pipa River (GPR) basin (Portugal) has natural conditions that favor the occurrence of landslides. The hydrological year 2009/10 was characterized by high amounts of rainfall, which led to the occurrence of an also high number of landslides in this basin. The hydrodynamic character of the GPR basin was analyzed through a lumped parameter model of daily sequential water balances, in order to understand its influence in the stability of natural slopes. Results from the model were confronted to the inventory of landslides that occurred in the basin during the hydrological year 2009/10. Morphological, geotechnical, and hydrological local conditions affecting slope stability were also analyzed through back-analyses of two selected deep-seated landslides. Data here presented shows that the rise of water table is an important triggering factor for landslides. The most important constraint for landslides in the area is the degree of weathering and thickness of the upper layer of degraded marls. In most of the basin, the degraded layer is less than 5 m deep, causing the occurrence of shallow and intermediate landslides. However, deep-seated landslides were also found in areas, even with degraded marls that were less than 5 m-thick, where landslides have also occurred in the past.
Reassessing Hydrological Processes That Control Stable Isotope Tracers in Groundwater of the Atacama Desert (Northern Chile)
Authors: Scheihing Konstantin , Moya Claudio , Struck Ulrich , Lictevout Elisabeth , Tröger Uwe
Published: December 2017

A collection of 514 stable isotope water samples from the Atacama Desert is being reassessed geostatistically. The evaluation reveals that adjacent Andean catchments can exhibit distinct δ18O and δ2H value ranges in meteoric waters, despite similar sample altitudes of up to 4000 m above sea level (a.s.l.). It is proposed that the individual topographic features of each catchment at the western Andean Precordillera either inhibit or facilitate vapor mixing processes of easterly and westerly air masses with different isotopic compositions. This process likely causes catchment-specific isotope value ranges in precipitations (between −7‰ and −19‰ δ18O) that are being consistently reflected in the isotope values of groundwater and surface waters of these catchments. Further, due to evaporation-driven isotopic fractionation and subsurface water mixing, isotope samples of the regional Pampa del Tamarugal Aquifer plot collectively parallel to the local meteoric water line. Besides, there is no evidence for hydrothermal isotopic water-rock interactions. Overall, the observed catchment-dependent isotope characteristics allow for using δ18O and δ2H as tracers to delineate regionally distinct groundwater compartments and associated recharge areas. In this context, δ18O, δ2H and 3H data of shallow groundwater at three alluvial fans challenge the established idea of recharge from alluvial fans after flash floods.
Infant Feeding Beliefs, Attitudes, Knowledge and Practices of Chinese Immigrant Mothers: An Integrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Lindsay Ana , Le Qun , Greaney Mary
Published: December 2017

Chinese are a fast-growing immigrant population group in several parts of the world (e.g., Australia, Canada, Europe, Southeast Asia, United States). Research evidence suggests that compared to non-Hispanic whites, individuals of Asian-origin including Chinese are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes at a lower body mass index (BMI). These risks may be possibly due to genetic differences in body composition and metabolic responses. Despite the increasing numbers of Chinese children growing up in immigrant families and the increasing prevalence of obesity among Chinese, little research has been focused on children of Chinese immigrant families. This integrative review synthesizes the evidence on infant feeding beliefs, attitudes, knowledge and practices of Chinese immigrant mothers; highlights limitations of available research; and offers suggestions for future research. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched four electronic academic/research databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, and PubMed) to identify peer-reviewed, full-text papers published in English between January 2000 and September 2017. Only studies with mothers 18+ years old of normally developing infants were included. Of the 797 citations identified, 15 full-text papers were retrieved and 11 studies (8 cross-sectional studies, 3 qualitative studies) met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Reviewed studies revealed high initiation rates of breastfeeding, but sharp declines in breastfeeding rates by six months of age. In addition, reviewed studies revealed that the concomitantly use of breast milk and formula, and the early introduction of solid foods were common. Finally, reviewed studies identified several familial and socio-cultural influences on infant feeding beliefs and practices that may increase risk of overweight and obesity during infancy and early childhood among Chinese children of immigrant families. Nonetheless, as only 11 studies were identified and because the majority of studies (n = 8) were conducted in Australia, additional research including longitudinal studies, and studies conducted in countries with large Chinese immigrant population are needed to further identify and understand influences on Chinese immigrant mothers’ beliefs, attitudes, and practices related to infant feeding that may increase risk of child overweight and obesity. This information is needed to develop interventions tailored to the beliefs and needs of this fast-growing immigrant group and aimed at promoting healthy infant feeding practices to prevent childhood overweight and obesity.
Mortality Rate Associated with Admission Hyperglycemia in Traumatic Femoral Fracture Patients Is Greater Than Non-Diabetic Normoglycemic Patients but Not Diabetic Normoglycemic Patients
Authors: Rau Cheng-Shyuan , Wu Shao-Chun , Chen Yi-Chun , Chien Peng-Chen , Hsieh Hsiao-Yun , Kuo Pao-Jen , Hsieh Ching-Hua
Published: December 2017

Background: Admission hyperglycemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in trauma patients. However, admission hyperglycemia is not only associated with stress-induced hyperglycemia (SIH) but also with diabetic hyperglycemia (DH); furthermore, patients with normoglycemia may not only have non-diabetic normoglycemia (NDN) but also have a possibility of diabetic normoglycemia (DN), with the diabetes under control. This study aimed to assess the effects of SIH and DH on the mortality outcomes of traumatic femoral fracture patients with NDN and DN. Methods: Admission hyperglycemia was diagnosed as a serum glucose ≥200 mg/dL upon arrival at the emergency department. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was determined by patient history and/or admission HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. DH and SIH were diagnosed by admission hyperglycemia in patients with and without DM. DN and NDN were determined by absence of admission hyperglycemia in patients with and without DM. These patients were allocated into four groups: SIH (n = 75), DH (n = 280), DN (n = 309), and NDN (n = 1326), with detailed information retracted from the Trauma Registry System at a level I trauma center between 1 January 2009, and 31 December 2016. Patients with incomplete registered data were excluded. The adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for mortality were estimated through a stepwise model selection of a multiple regression model that was adjusted by controlling the cofounding variables such age, sex, co-morbidities, and Injury Severity Score. Results: Compared to NDN, a 9.8-fold (95% CI 1.54–62.05; p = 0.016) and a 5.8-fold (95% CI 1.46–22.67; p = 0.012) increase in the adjusted mortality odds ratio of patients with SIH and DH, respectively, were found in this study. In addition, the adjusted odds of mortality between SIH (AOR = 0.3; 95% CI 0.03–2.99; p = 0.302) as well as DH patients (AOR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.20–1.89; p = 0.394) and DN patients had no significant difference. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that SIH and DH patients with traumatic femoral fractures had higher mortality when compared with NDN patients, but not when compared with DN patients, with or without adjustment of the differences in patient’s age, sex, co-morbidities, and injury severity.
Microcredit and Survival Microenterprises: The Role of Market Structure
Authors: Viswanath P.
Published: December 2017

Poverty remains a pervasive problem all over the world, but the problem is worst in underdeveloped areas like Africa. While microfinance is supposed to address this problem through the promotion of viable businesses, it has not been very successful in helping survival microenterprises, i.e., businesses that the very poor with limited human capital have access to, in sectors with low barriers to entry and selling undifferentiated products. In this paper, I examine the role of market structure in mediating the impact of micro-lending to such survival enterprises. While there have been many evaluations of microfinance institutions (MFIs), there have been very few that look at market conditions as an input into the success of micro-lending. My theoretical analysis suggests that when introducing an extensive program of microcredit in undeveloped and relatively isolated rural areas, it is important to look at how the market structure mediates the impact of the provision of loans on the demand and supply for the end-product or service. I present some empirical evidence, which provides partial confirmation that MFIs are not currently taking these considerations into account.
Numerical Simulation of the Heston Model under Stochastic Correlation
Authors: Teng Long , Ehrhardt Matthias , Günther Michael
Published: December 2017

Stochastic correlation models have become increasingly important in financial markets. In order to be able to price vanilla options in stochastic volatility and correlation models, in this work, we study the extension of the Heston model by imposing stochastic correlations driven by a stochastic differential equation. We discuss the efficient algorithms for the extended Heston model by incorporating stochastic correlations. Our numerical experiments show that the proposed algorithms can efficiently provide highly accurate results for the extended Heston by including stochastic correlations. By investigating the effect of stochastic correlations on the implied volatility, we find that the performance of the Heston model can be proved by including stochastic correlations.
The Herb–Drug Pharmacokinetic Interaction of 5-Fluorouracil and Its Metabolite 5-Fluoro-5,6-Dihydrouracil with a Traditional Chinese Medicine in Rats
Authors: Liu Ju-Han , Cheng Yung-Yi , Hsieh Chen-Hsi , Tsai Tung-Hu
Published: December 2017

Background: Xiang-Sha-Liu-Jun-Zi-Tang (XSLJZT) is the most common traditional formula given to colorectal and breast cancer patients in Taiwan, according to a statistical study of the National Health Insurance Research Database. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used as the first line of treatment for colorectal cancer. Thus, the aim of study is to investigate the pharmacokinetic interaction of XSLJZT and 5-FU. Methods: To investigate the herb–drug interaction of XSLJZT with 5-FU as well as its metabolite 5-fluoro-5,6-dihydrouracil (5-FDHU) using pharmacokinetics, a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system coupled with a photodiode array detector was developed to monitor 5-FU and 5-FDHU levels in rat blood. Rats were divided into three cohorts, one of which was administered 5-FU (100 mg/kg, iv—intravenous) alone, while the other two groups were pretreated with low and high doses of XSLJZT (600 mg/kg/day or 2400 mg/kg/day for 5 consecutive days) in combination with 5-FU. Results: The results demonstrated that 5-FU level was not significantly different between the group treated with only 5-FU and the group pretreated with a normal dose of XSLJZT (600 mg/kg/day). However, pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that pretreatment with a high dose of XSLJZT (2400 mg/kg/day) extended the residence time and increased the volume of distribution of 5-FU. No significant distinctions were found in 5-FDHU pharmacokinetic parameters at three doses of XSLJZT. Conclusions: Overall, the pharmacokinetic results confirm the safety of coadministering 5-FU with XSLJZT, and provide practical dosage information for clinical practice.
Stromal Expression of MARCKS Protein in Ovarian Carcinomas Has Unfavorable Prognostic Value
Authors: Doghri Raoudha , Manai Maroua , Finetti Pascal , Driss Maha , Agavnian Emilie , Lopez Marc , Elghardallou Meriam , Charafe-Jauffret Emmanuelle , Manai Mohamed , Chaffanet Max , Birnbaum Daniel , Mrad Karima , Bertucci François
Published: December 2017

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecological cancer. Identification of new therapeutic targets is crucial. MARCKS, myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate, has been implicated in aggressiveness of several cancers and MARCKS inhibitors are in development. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC), we retrospectively assessed MARCKS expression in epithelial and stromal cells of 118 pre-chemotherapy EOC samples and 40 normal ovarian samples from patients treated at Salah Azaiez Institute. We compared MARCKS expression in normal versus cancer samples, and searched for correlations with clinicopathological features, including overall survival (OS). Seventy-five percent of normal samples showed positive epithelial MARCKS staining versus 50% of tumor samples (p = 6.02 × 10−3). By contrast, stromal MARCKS expression was more frequent in tumor samples (77%) than in normal samples (22%; p = 1.41 × 10−9). There was no correlation between epithelial and stromal IHC MARCKS statutes and prognostic clinicopathological features. Stromal MARCKS expression was correlated with shorter poor OS in uni- and multivariate analyses. Stromal MARCKS overexpression in tumors might contribute to cancer-associated fibroblasts activation and to the poor prognosis of EOC, suggesting a potential therapeutic interest of MARCKS inhibition for targeting the cooperative tumor stroma.
The Origin of Skin Dendritic Cell Network and Its Role in Psoriasis
Authors: Kim Tae-Gyun , Kim Sung , Lee Min-Geol
Published: December 2017

Dendritic cells (DCs) are heterogeneous groups of innate immune cells, which orchestrate immune responses by presenting antigens to cognate T cells and stimulating other types of immune cells. Although the term ‘DCs’ generally represent highly mixed subsets with functional heterogeneity, the classical definition of DCs usually denotes conventional DCs (cDCs). Skin contains a unique DC network mainly composed of embryo precursor-derived epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) and bone marrow-derived dermal cDCs, which can be further classified into type 1 (cDC1) and type 2 (cDC2) subsets. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which is principally mediated by IL-23/IL-17 cytokine axis. In the psoriatic skins, DCs are prominent cellular sources for TNF-α and IL-23, and the use of blocking antibodies against TNF-α and IL-23 leads to a significant clinical improvement in psoriatic patients. Recent elegant human and mouse studies have shown that inflammation-induced inflammatory DCs, LCs, dermal cDC2, and monocyte-derived DCs are pivotal DC subsets in psoriatic inflammation. Thus, targeting specific pathogenic DC subsets would be a potential strategy for alleviating and preventing DC-derived IL-23-dependent psoriatic inflammation and other inflammatory dermatoses in the future.
Influence of Botanical Origin and Chemical Composition on the Protective Effect against Oxidative Damage and the Capacity to Reduce In Vitro Bacterial Biofilms of Monofloral Honeys from the Andean Region of Ecuador
Authors: García-Tenesaca Marilyn , Navarrete Eillen S. , Iturralde Gabriel A. , Villacrés Granda Irina M. , Tejera Eduardo , Beltrán-Ayala Pablo , Giampieri Francesca , Battino Maurizio , Alvarez-Suarez José M.
Published: December 2017

Three types of monofloral honey from the Andean regions of Ecuador (Avocado, Eucalyptus, and Rapeseed honey) were analyzed to determine their floral origin, physicochemical parameters, chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and their capacity to reduce in vitro bacterial biofilms. The chemical composition varied considerably depending on floral origin. The highest values of bioactive compounds were found in Avocado honey, classified as dark amber in color, while the lowest values were found in Eucalyptus honey followed by Rapeseed honey, both classified as extra light amber. When compared to Eucalyptus and Rapeseed honey, Avocado honey showed a more effective superoxide scavenging activity, chelating metal ions capacity, and a higher ability to protect human erythrocyte membranes against lipid peroxidation. For antimicrobial activity, the hydrogen peroxide content and the capacity to inhibit the biofilm formation, and to remove preformed biofilm from Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae was determined. Avocado honey showed the highest values of hydrogen peroxide content, as well as the highest capacity to reduce in vitro bacterial biofilms. A correlation between color vs. phenolics content vs. superoxide scavenging activity vs. chelating metal ions capacity, and the capacity to protect human erythrocyte membranes against lipid peroxidation was found.
Inhibition of Aquaporin-4 Improves the Outcome of Ischaemic Stroke and Modulates Brain Paravascular Drainage Pathways
Authors: Pirici Ionica , Balsanu Tudor Adrian , Bogdan Catalin , Margaritescu Claudiu , Divan Tamir , Vitalie Vacaras , Mogoanta Laurentiu , Pirici Daniel , Carare Roxana Octavia , Muresanu Dafin Fior
Published: December 2017

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) is the most abundant water channel in the brain, and its inhibition before inducing focal ischemia, using the AQP4 inhibitor TGN-020, has been showed to reduce oedema in imaging studies. Here, we aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the histopathological effects of a single dose of TGN-020 administered after the occlusion of the medial cerebral artery (MCAO). On a rat model of non-reperfusion ischemia, we have assessed vascular densities, albumin extravasation, gliosis, and apoptosis at 3 and 7 days after MCAO. TGN-020 significantly reduced oedema, glial scar, albumin effusion, and apoptosis, at both 3 and 7 days after MCAO. The area of GFAP-positive gliotic rim decreased, and 3D fractal analysis of astrocytic processes revealed a less complex architecture, possibly indicating water accumulating in the cytoplasm. Evaluation of the blood vessels revealed thicker basement membranes colocalizing with exudated albumin in the treated animals, suggesting that inhibition of AQP4 blocks fluid flow towards the parenchyma in the paravascular drainage pathways of the interstitial fluid. These findings suggest that a single dose of an AQP4 inhibitor can reduce brain oedema, even if administered after the onset of ischemia, and AQP4 agonists/antagonists might be effective modulators of the paravascular drainage flow.
Relationship between Lipid Phenotypes, Overweight, Lipid Lowering Drug Response and KIF6 and HMG-CoA Genotypes in a Subset of the Brisighella Heart Study Population
Authors: Angelini Sabrina , Rosticci Martina , Massimo Gianmichele , Musti Muriel , Ravegnini Gloria , Consolini Nicola , Sammarini Giulia , D’Addato Sergio , Rizzoli Elisabetta , Botbayev Dauren , Borghi Claudio , Cantelli-Forti Giorgio , Cicero Arrigo , Hrelia Patrizia
Published: December 2017

The existence of genetic traits might explain the susceptibility to develop hypercholesterolemia and the inter-individual differences in statin response. This study was performed to evaluate whether individuals’ polymorphisms in HMG-CoA and KIF6 genes are independently associated with hypercholesterolemia, other lipid-associated traits, and statin response in unselected individuals enrolled in the Brisighella heart study (Survey 2012). A total of 1622 individuals, of which 183 under statin medication, were genotyped for a total of five polymorphisms (KIF6 rs20455, rs9471077, rs9462535; HMG-CoA rs3761740, rs3846662). The relationships between the five loci and clinical characteristics were analyzed. The principal basic parameters calculated on 12 h fasting blood included total cholesterol (TC), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). Hypercholesterolemia was defined as a TC >200 mg/dL or use of lipid-lowering medication. 965 individuals were characterized by hypercholesterolemia; these subjects were significantly older (p < 0.001), with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to the others. HMG-CoA rs3846662 GG genotype was significantly over-represented in the hypercholesterolemic group (p = 0.030). HMG-CoA rs3846662 genotype was associated with the level of TC and LDL-C. Furthermore, in the same subset of untreated subjects, we observed a significant correlation between the KIF6 rs20455 and HDL-C. KIF6 variants were associated with a significantly lower (rs20455) or higher (rs9471077 and rs9462535) risk of obesity, in males only. No association between responsiveness to statins and the polymorphisms under investigation were observed. Our results showed associations between HMG-CoA rs3846662 and KIF6 rs20455 and lipid phenotypes, which may have an influence on dyslipidemia-related events. Moreover, this represents the first study implicating KIF6 variants with obesity in men, and point to the possible involvement of this genetic locus in the known gender-related differences in coronary artery disease.
Emerging Roles of TWIK-1 Heterodimerization in the Brain
Authors: Cho Chang-Hoon , Hwang Eun Mi , Park Jae-Yong
Published: December 2017

Two-pore domain K+ (K2P) channels play essential roles in regulating resting membrane potential and cellular excitability. Although TWIK-1 (TWIK—tandem of pore domains in a weak inward rectifying K+ channel) was the first identified member of the K2P channel family, it is only in recent years that the physiological roles of TWIK-1 have been studied in depth. A series of reports suggest that TWIK-1 may underlie diverse functions, such as intrinsic excitability of neurons, astrocytic passive conductance, and astrocytic glutamate release, as a homodimer or heterodimer with other K2P isotypes. Here, we summarize expression patterns and newly identified functions of TWIK-1 in the brain.
Minoxidil Induction of VEGF Is Mediated by Inhibition of HIF-Prolyl Hydroxylase
Authors: Yum Soohwan , Jeong Seongkeun , Kim Dohoon , Lee Sunyoung , Kim Wooseong , Yoo Jin-Wook , Kim Jung-Ae , Kwon Oh , Kim Dae-Duk , Min Do , Jung Yunjin
Published: December 2017

The topical application of minoxidil may achieve millimolar concentrations in the skin. We investigated whether millimolar minoxidil could induce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a possible effector for minoxidil-mediated hair growth, and how it occurred at the molecular level. Cell-based experiments were performed to investigate a molecular mechanism underlying the millimolar minoxidil induction of VEGF. The inhibitory effect of minoxidil on hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylase-2 (PHD-2) was tested by an in vitro von Hippel–Lindau protein (VHL) binding assay. To examine the angiogenic potential of millimolar minoxidil, a chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay was used. In human keratinocytes and dermal papilla cells, millimolar minoxidil increased the secretion of VEGF, which was not attenuated by a specific adenosine receptor antagonist that inhibits the micromolar minoxidil induction of VEGF. Millimolar minoxidil induced hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and the induction of VEGF was dependent on HIF-1. Moreover, minoxidil applied to the dorsal area of mice increased HIF-1α and VEGF in the skin. In an in vitro VHL binding assay, minoxidil directly inhibited PHD-2, thus preventing the hydroxylation of cellular HIF-1α and VHL-dependent proteasome degradation and resulting in the stabilization of HIF-1α protein. Minoxidil inhibition of PHD-2 was reversed by ascorbate, a cofactor of PHD-2, and the minoxidil induction of cellular HIF-1α was abrogated by the cofactor. Millimolar minoxidil promoted angiogenesis in the CAM assay, an in vivo angiogenic test, and this was nullified by the specific inhibition of VEGF. Our data demonstrate that PHD may be the molecular target for millimolar minoxidil-mediated VEGF induction via HIF-1.
Development of Antibody Therapeutics against Flaviviruses
Authors: Sun Haiyan , Chen Qiang , Lai Huafang
Published: December 2017

Recent outbreaks of Zika virus (ZIKV) highlight the urgent need to develop efficacious interventions against flaviviruses, many of which cause devastating epidemics around the world. Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have been at the forefront of treatment for cancer and a wide array of other diseases due to their specificity and potency. While mammalian cell-produced mAbs have shown promise as therapeutic candidates against several flaviviruses, their eventual approval for human application still faces several challenges including their potential risk of predisposing treated patients to more severe secondary infection by a heterologous flavivirus through antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE). The high cost associated with mAb production in mammalian cell cultures also poses a challenge for the feasible application of these drugs to the developing world where the majority of flavivirus infection occurs. Here, we review the current therapeutic mAb candidates against various flaviviruses including West Nile (WNV), Dengue virus (DENV), and ZIKV. The progress of using plants for developing safer and more economical mAb therapeutics against flaviviruses is discussed within the context of their expression, characterization, downstream processing, neutralization, and in vivo efficacy. The progress of using plant glycoengineering to address ADE, the major impediment of flavivirus therapeutic development, is highlighted. These advancements suggest that plant-based systems are excellent alternatives for addressing the remaining challenges of mAb therapeutic development against flavivirus and may facilitate the eventual commercialization of these drug candidates.
Participation of Green Organs to Grain Filling in Triticum turgidum var durum Grown under Mediterranean Conditions
Authors: Merah Othmane , Evon Philippe , Monneveux Philippe
Published: December 2017

In wheat, flag leaf, stem, chaff and awns contribute to grain filling through photosynthesis and/or re-mobilization. Environmental and genetic effects on the relative contribution of each organ were examined by analyzing the consequences of sink-source manipulations (shading and excision) and by comparing carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) values in dry matter (at maturity) and sap (two weeks after anthesis) in six durum wheat genotypes grown in two contrasting seasons. The contribution of flag leaf, stem, chaff and awns to grain filling, estimated by sink-source manipulations, highly varied with the season. The contribution of ear photosynthesis and re-mobilization from the stem increased with post-anthesis water stress. They showed a large genetic variation that was, however, not clearly associated to morphological characteristics of ear and stem. Isotopic imprints of chaff on grain Δ were identified as a possible surrogate of the destructive and cumbersome sink-source manipulations to evaluate the contribution of carbon assimilated in ears or re-mobilized from stem. This might facilitate screening of genetic resources and allow the combining of favourable drought tolerance mechanisms in wheat.
Modulation of Innate Immunity by lignin-Carbohydrate, a Novel TLR4 Ligand, Results in Augmentation of Mucosal IgA and Systemic IgG Production
Authors: Tsuji Ryohei , Ikado Kumiko , Fujiwara Daisuke
Published: December 2017

Previous study revealed that a specific lignin-carbohydrate preparation, named as lignin-rich enzyme lignin (LREL) derived from plant husk, is a novel toll-like receptor 4 ligand and shows a potent immune-stimulatory activity against dendritic cells (DCs) in vitro. In this report, we investigated immune-stimulatory activity of LREL in vivo. Single intraperitoneal (i.p.) or oral treatment of LREL elicited activation of systemic and mucosal DCs, which were accompanied by significant elevation of cell surface activation markers and ratio of IL-12p40 producing cells. In addition, LREL-fed mice showed not only mucosal DCs activation but also significant increase of IFN-γ+ CD4+ T cells in mesenteric lymph node (MLN), respectively. We further examined the effect of LREL oral immunization in combination with ovalbumin (OVA) on the activation of acquired immune system. In LREL administered group, total mucosal IgA concentration was significantly increased, while antigen-specific immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentration was not changed between groups. On the other hand, both total and antigen-specific IgG concentrations in plasma were significantly increased in the LREL administered group. Taken together, oral treatment of LREL is able to affect mucosal and systemic antibodies induction and might be useful for effective immune-stimulatory functional foods and mucosal vaccine adjuvant.
Designing towards the Unknown: Engaging with Material and Aesthetic Uncertainty
Authors: Wilde Danielle , Underwood Jenny
Published: December 2017

New materials with new capabilities demand new ways of approaching design. Destabilising existing methods is crucial to develop new methods. Yet, radical destabilisation—where outcomes remain unknown long enough that new discoveries become possible—is not easy in technology design where complex interdisciplinary teams with time and resource constraints need to deliver concrete outcomes on schedule. The Poetic Kinaesthetic Interface project (PKI) engages with this problematic directly. In PKI we use unfolding processes—informed by participatory, speculative and critical design—in emergent actions, to design towards unknown outcomes, using unknown materials. The impossibility of this task is proving as useful as it is disruptive. At its most potent, it is destabilising expectations, aesthetics and processes. Keeping the researchers, collaborators and participants in a state of unknowing, is opening the research potential to far-ranging possibilities. In this article we unpack the motivations driving the PKI project. We present our mixed-methodology, which entangles textile crafts, design interactions and materiality to shape an embodied enquiry. Our research outcomes are procedural and methodological. PKI brings together diverse human, non-human, known and unknown actors to discover where the emergent assemblages might lead. Our approach is re-invigorating—as it demands re-envisioning of—the design process.
Improvement in the Electrochemical Lithium Storage Performance of MgH2
Authors: Yang Shuo , Wang Hui , Ouyang Liuzhang , Liu Jiangwen , Zhu Min
Published: December 2017

Magnesium hydride (MgH2) exhibits great potential for hydrogen and lithium storage. In this work, MgH2-based composites with expanded graphite (EG) and TiO2 were prepared by a plasma-assisted milling process to improve the electrochemical performance of MgH2. The resulting MgH2–TiO2–EG composites showed a remarkable increase in the initial discharge capacity and cycling capacity compared with a pure MgH2 electrode and MgH2–EG composite electrodes with different preparation processes. A stable discharge capacity of 305.5 mAh·g−1 could be achieved after 100 cycles for the 20 h-milled MgH2–TiO2–EG-20 h composite electrode and the reversibility of the conversion reaction of MgH2 could be greatly enhanced. This improvement in cyclic performance is attributed mainly to the composite microstructure by the specific plasma-assisted milling process, and the additives TiO2 and graphite that could effectively ease the volume change during the de-/lithiation process as well as inhibit the particle agglomeration.
Modification of TiO2 Surface by Disilanylene Polymers and Application to Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Adachi Yohei , Tanaka Daiki , Ooyama Yousuke , Ohshita Joji
Published: December 2017

The surface modification of inorganic materials with organic units is an important process in device preparation. For the modification of TiO2, organocarboxylic acids (RCO2H) are usually used. Carboxylic acids form ester linkages (RCO2Ti) with hydroxyl groups on the TiO2 surface to attach the organic groups on the surface. However, the esterification liberates water as a byproduct, which may contaminate the surface by affecting TiO2 electronic states. In addition, the ester linkages are usually unstable towards hydrolysis, which causes dye detachment and shortens device lifetime. In this review, we summarize our recent studies of the use of polymers composed of disilanylene and π-conjugated units as new modifiers of the TiO2 surface. The TiO2 electrodes modified by those polymers were applied to dye-sensitized solar cells.
Host Soluble Mediators: Defying the Immunological Inertness of Aspergillus fumigatus Conidia
Authors: Wong Sarah Sze Wah , Aimanianda Vishukumar
Published: December 2017

Aspergillus fumigatus produce airborne spores (conidia), which are inhaled in abundant quantity. In an immunocompromised population, the host immune system fails to clear the inhaled conidia, which then germinate and invade, leading to pulmonary aspergillosis. In an immunocompetent population, the inhaled conidia are efficiently cleared by the host immune system. Soluble mediators of the innate immunity, that involve the complement system, acute-phase proteins, antimicrobial peptides and cytokines, are often considered to play a complementary role in the defense of the fungal pathogen. In fact, the soluble mediators are essential in achieving an efficient clearance of the dormant conidia, which is the morphotype of the fungus upon inhalation by the host. Importantly, harnessing the host soluble mediators challenges the immunological inertness of the dormant conidia due to the presence of the rodlet and melanin layers. In the review, we summarized the major soluble mediators in the lung that are involved in the recognition of the dormant conidia. This knowledge is essential in the complete understanding of the immune defense against A. fumigatus.
Neuro-Immune Mechanisms of Anti-Cryptococcal Protection
Authors: Drummond Rebecca
Published: December 2017

Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is a life-threatening fungal disease affecting both immunosuppressed and immunocompetent people. The main causative agent of CM is Cryptococcus neoformans, a basidiomycete fungus prevalent in the environment. Our understanding of the immune mechanisms controlling C. neoformans growth within the central nervous system (CNS) is poor. However, there have been several recent advances in the field of neuroimmunology regarding how cells resident within the CNS, such as microglia and neurons, can participate in immune surveillance and control of infection. In this mini-review, the cells of the CNS are discussed with reference to what is currently known about how they control C. neoformans infection.
Microstructures, Hardness and Corrosion Behaviors of FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 and FeCoNiNb High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Tsau Chun-Huei , Wang Wei-Li
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the effects of niobium and molybdenum on FeCoNi alloy, including on the microstructures and hardness of FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 and FeCoNiNb alloys, and the polarization behaviors of these alloys in 1 M sulfuric acid and 1 M sodium chloride solutions. The results in this study indicate that both FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 and FeCoNiNb alloys had a dual-phased dendritic microstructure; all of the phases in these alloys were solid solution phases, and no ordering was observed. Therefore, the solid solution effect significantly increased the hardness of these two alloys; in particular, FeCoNiNb alloy had the highest hardness of the alloys of interest. The corrosion resistance of FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 and FeCoNiNb alloys was less than that of FeCoNi alloy because of their dual-phased dendritic microstructures. The corrosion resistance of the FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 alloy exceeded that of the FeCoNiNb alloy in these solutions. However, FeCoNiNb0.5Mo0.5 and FeCoNiNb alloys exhibited a favorable combination of corrosion resistance and hardness.
Enhancement of the Laser Transmission Weldability between Polyethylene and Polyoxymethylene by Plasma Surface Treatment
Authors: Liu Huixia , Jiang Yingjie , Tan Wensheng , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2017

Due to their large compatibility difference, polyethylene (PE) and polyoxymethylene (POM) cannot be welded together by laser transmission welding. In this study, PE and POM are pretreated using plasma that significantly enhances their laser transmission welding strength. To understand the mechanism underlying the laser welding strength enhancement, surface modification is analyzed using contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Characterization results show that the plasma surface treatment improves the surface free energy, significantly enhancing the wettability of the materials. The increase in surface roughness and the generation of homogeneous bubbles contribute to the formation of mechanical micro-interlocking. The oxygen-containing groups introduced by the oxygen plasma treatment improve the compatibility of PE and POM, and facilitate the diffusion and entanglement of molecular chains and the formation of van der Waals force.
FEM Modeling of the Relationship between the High-Temperature Hardness and High-Temperature, Quasi-Static Compression Experiment
Authors: Zhang Tao , Jiang Feng , Yan Lan , Xu Xipeng
Published: December 2017

The high-temperature hardness test has a wide range of applications, but lacks test standards. The purpose of this study is to develop a finite element method (FEM) model of the relationship between the high-temperature hardness and high-temperature, quasi-static compression experiment, which is a mature test technology with test standards. A high-temperature, quasi-static compression test and a high-temperature hardness test were carried out. The relationship between the high-temperature, quasi-static compression test results and the high-temperature hardness test results was built by the development of a high-temperature indentation finite element (FE) simulation. The simulated and experimental results of high-temperature hardness have been compared, verifying the accuracy of the high-temperature indentation FE simulation.The simulated results show that the high temperature hardness basically does not change with the change of load when the pile-up of material during indentation is ignored. The simulated and experimental results show that the decrease in hardness and thermal softening are consistent. The strain and stress of indentation were analyzed from the simulated contour. It was found that the strain increases with the increase of the test temperature, and the stress decreases with the increase of the test temperature.
Accelerating NMR-Based Structural Studies of Proteins by Combining Amino Acid Selective Unlabeling and Fast NMR Methods
Authors: Krishnarjuna Bankala , Chandra Kousik , Atreya Hanudatta
Published: December 2017

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in fast acquisition and analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy data for high throughput protein structure determination. Towards this end, rapid data collection techniques and methods to simplify the NMR spectrum such as amino acid selective unlabeling have been proposed recently. Combining these two approaches can speed up further the structure determination process. Based on this idea, we present three new two-dimensional (2D) NMR experiments, which together provide 15N, 1HN, 13Cα, 13Cβ, 13C′ chemical shifts for amino acid residues which are immediate C-terminal neighbors (i + 1) of residues that are selectively unlabeled. These experiments have high sensitivity and can be acquired rapidly using the methodology of G-matrix Fourier transform (GFT) NMR spectroscopy combined with non-uniform sampling (NUS). This is a first study involving the application of fast NMR methods to proteins samples prepared using a specific labeling scheme. Taken together, this opens up new avenues to using the method of selective unlabeling for rapid resonance assignment of proteins.
Letnikov vs. Marchaud: A Survey on Two Prominent Constructions of Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Rogosin Sergei , Dubatovskaya Maryna
Published: December 2017

In this survey paper, we analyze two constructions of fractional derivatives proposed by Aleksey Letnikov (1837–1888) and by André Marchaud (1887–1973), respectively. These derivatives play very important roles in Fractional Calculus and its applications.
Topical Application of Glycolipids from Isochrysis galbana Prevents Epidermal Hyperplasia in Mice
Authors: Rodríguez-Luna Azahara , Talero Elena , Terencio María , González-Rodríguez María , Rabasco Antonio , De los Reyes Carolina , Motilva Virginia , Ávila-Román Javier
Published: December 2017

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis have a significant impact on society. Currently, the major topical treatments have many side effects, making their continued use in patients difficult. Microalgae have emerged as a source of bio-active molecules such as glycolipids with potent anti-inflammatory properties. We aimed to investigate the effects of a glycolipid (MGMG-A) and a glycolipid fraction (MGDG) obtained from the microalga Isochrysis galbana on a TPA-induced epidermal hyperplasia murine model. In a first set of experiments, we examined the preventive effects of MGMG-A and MGDG dissolved in acetone on TPA-induced hyperplasia model in mice. In a second step, we performed an in vivo permeability study by using rhodamine-containing cream, ointment, or gel to determinate the formulation that preserves the skin architecture and reaches deeper. The selected formulation was assayed to ensure the stability and enhanced permeation properties of the samples in an ex vivo experiment. Finally, MGDG-containing cream was assessed in the hyperplasia murine model. The results showed that pre-treatment with acetone-dissolved glycolipids reduced skin edema, epidermal thickness, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17) in epidermal tissue. The in vivo and ex vivo permeation studies showed that the cream formulation had the best permeability profile. In the same way, MGDG-cream formulation showed better permeation than acetone-dissolved preparation. MGDG-cream application attenuated TPA-induced skin edema, improved histopathological features, and showed a reduction of the inflammatory cell infiltrate. In addition, this formulation inhibited epidermal expression of COX-2 in a similar way to dexamethasone. Our results suggest that an MGDG-containing cream could be an emerging therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory skin pathologies such as psoriasis.
Recovery of Iron from Pyrolusite Leaching Slag by a Lab-Scale Circulation Process of Oxalic Acid Leaching and Ultraviolet Irradiation
Authors: Deng Biao , Wang Bozhi , Su Shijun , Ding Sanglan , Sun Weiyi
Published: December 2017

Pyrolusite leaching slag is a Fe-containing slag generated from pyrolusite leaching process with SO2. Recovery of iron from the slag not only has economic benefit, but also prevents the secondary pollution to the environment. A novel lab-scale cyclic process for recovering iron from pyrolusite leaching slag was introduced. The process contains two steps: (1) iron was leached with oxalic acid and [Fe(C2O4)n](3−2n)+ solution was generated; (2) the [Fe(C2O4)n](3−2n)+ solution was irradiated by ultraviolet and ferrous oxalate precipitation were obtained. The effect of operation parameter on leaching and irradiation process were studied separately. In the leaching process, the optimal solid/liquid ratio, oxalic acid concentration, leaching temperature, stirring rate, and leaching time are 1:50, 0.40 mol/L, 95 °C, 300 r/min, and 3 h, respectively. In the irradiation process, the best irradiation wavelength, Fe/oxalic acid molar ratio and irradiation time are 254 nm, 1:4, and 30 min. Besides, a test of 9 continuous cycles was carried out and the performance and material balance of the combined process were investigated. The results showed that the cyclic process is entirely feasible and prove to be stable producing, and ferrous oxalate of 99.32% purity. Material balance indicated that 95.17% of iron was recovered in the form of FeC2O4·2H2O, and the recovery efficiency of oxalic acid was 58.52%.
A Fast Multiobjective Optimization Strategy for Single-Axis Electromagnetic MOEMS Micromirrors
Authors: Pieri Francesco , Cilea Alessandro
Published: December 2017

Micro-opto-electro-mechanical (MOEMS) micromirrors are an enabling technology for mobile image projectors (pico-projectors). Low size and low power are the crucial pico-projector constraints. In this work, we present a fast method for the optimization of a silicon single-axis electromagnetic torsional micromirror. In this device, external permanent magnets provide the required magnetic field, and the actuation torque is generated on a rectangular multi-loop coil microfabricated on the mirror plate. Multiple constraints link the required current through the coil, its area occupancy, the operating frequency, mirror suspension length, and magnets size. With only rather general assumptions about the magnetic field distribution and mechanical behavior, we show that a fully analytical description of the mirror electromagnetic and mechanical behavior is possible, so that the optimization targets (the assembly size, comprising the mirror and magnets, and the actuation current) can be expressed as closed functions of the design parameters. Standard multiobjective optimization algorithms can then be used for extremely fast evaluation of the trade-offs among the various optimization targets and exploration of the Pareto frontier. The error caused by model assumptions are estimated by Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations to be below a few percent points from the exact solution.