bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptococcal Lymphadenitis in an HIV-Infected Patient: A Rare Manifestation of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: Gonzales Zamora Jose Armando , Varadarajalu Yogeeta
Published: July 2018

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that is typically associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy has decreased the frequency of this infection, but has led to the emergence of atypical cases of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Here, we describe the case of a 40-year-old man who was diagnosed with HIV infection and cryptococcal meningitis. He was successfully treated with antifungals and then started antiretroviral therapy. The patient returned to the hospital 15 months later complaining of fever, pain, and neck swelling. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a conglomerate of necrotic lymph nodes in the supraclavicular region. He underwent biopsy and histology showed granulomatous inflammation with fungal elements, consistent with Cryptococcus. He tested positive for serum cryptococcal antigen. The patient was treated with liposomal amphotericin and flucytosine. After induction therapy, he was re-started on fluconazole. The final fungal cultures were negative. We attributed our patient’s clinical presentation to “paradoxical” IRIS, which was associated with his previously treated cryptococcosis. Near resolution of the supraclavicular mass was noted at the 3-month follow-up.
Statistical Significance of Earth’s Electric and Magnetic Field Variations Preceding Earthquakes in Greece and Japan Revisited
Authors: Sarlis Nicholas V.
Published: July 2018

By analyzing the seismicity in a new time domain, termed natural time, we recently found that the change of the entropy under time reversal (Physica A2018, 506, 625–634) and the relevant complexity measures (Entropy2018, 20, 477) exhibit pronounced variations before the occurrence of the M8.2 earthquake in Mexico on 7 September 2017. Here, the statistical significance of precursory phenomena associated with other physical properties and in particular the anomalous variations observed in the Earth’s electric and magnetic fields before earthquakes in different regions of the world and in particular in Greece since 1980s and Japan during 2001–2010 are revisited (the latter, i.e., the magnetic field variations are alternatively termed ultra low frequency (ULF) seismo-magnetic phenomena). Along these lines we employ modern statistical tools like the event coincidence analysis and the receiver operating characteristics technique. We find that these precursory variations are far beyond chance and in addition their lead times fully agree with the experimental findings in Greece since the 1980s.
A New Underwater Acoustic Signal Denoising Technique Based on CEEMDAN, Mutual Information, Permutation Entropy, and Wavelet Threshold Denoising
Authors: Li Yuxing , Li Yaan , Chen Xiao , Yu Jing , Yang Hong , Wang Long
Published: July 2018

Owing to the complexity of the ocean background noise, underwater acoustic signal denoising is one of the hotspot problems in the field of underwater acoustic signal processing. In this paper, we propose a new technique for underwater acoustic signal denoising based on complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN), mutual information (MI), permutation entropy (PE), and wavelet threshold denoising. CEEMDAN is an improved algorithm of empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and ensemble EMD (EEMD). First, CEEMDAN is employed to decompose noisy signals into many intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). IMFs can be divided into three parts: noise IMFs, noise-dominant IMFs, and real IMFs. Then, the noise IMFs can be identified on the basis of MIs of adjacent IMFs; the other two parts of IMFs can be distinguished based on the values of PE. Finally, noise IMFs were removed, and wavelet threshold denoising is applied to noise-dominant IMFs; we can obtain the final denoised signal by combining real IMFs and denoised noise-dominant IMFs. Simulation experiments were conducted by using simulated data, chaotic signals, and real underwater acoustic signals; the proposed denoising technique performs better than other existing denoising techniques, which is beneficial to the feature extraction of underwater acoustic signal.
A New Fractional-Order Chaotic System with Different Families of Hidden and Self-Excited Attractors
Authors: Munoz-Pacheco Jesus , Zambrano-Serrano Ernesto , Volos Christos , Jafari Sajad , Kengne Jacques , Rajagopal Karthikeyan
Published: July 2018

In this work, a new fractional-order chaotic system with a single parameter and four nonlinearities is introduced. One striking feature is that by varying the system parameter, the fractional-order system generates several complex dynamics: self-excited attractors, hidden attractors, and the coexistence of hidden attractors. In the family of self-excited chaotic attractors, the system has four spiral-saddle-type equilibrium points, or two nonhyperbolic equilibria. Besides, for a certain value of the parameter, a fractional-order no-equilibrium system is obtained. This no-equilibrium system presents a hidden chaotic attractor with a `hurricane’-like shape in the phase space. Multistability is also observed, since a hidden chaotic attractor coexists with a periodic one. The chaos generation in the new fractional-order system is demonstrated by the Lyapunov exponents method and equilibrium stability. Moreover, the complexity of the self-excited and hidden chaotic attractors is analyzed by computing their spectral entropy and Brownian-like motions. Finally, a pseudo-random number generator is designed using the hidden dynamics.
Distributed Sensory System of Surface Cracks Monitoring Based on Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Ryndin Eugeny A. , Konoplev Boris G. , Kulikova Irina V.
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we propose a method of distributed sensory systems designing for monitoring of surface cracks in highly loaded constructions based on electrical impedance tomography. A thin conductive film with contacts on the perimeter applied on the monitored surface is used as a crack sensor. Registration and monitoring of surface cracks using the developed modified method of electrical impedance tomography (EIT) are carried out. The proposed method differs from the traditional EIT method as it has considerably lower computational complexity with sufficient resolving power. This makes it possible to use the proposed EIT method for continuous rapid monitoring of surface cracks during the operation of a controlled construction in real-time mode. The main stages of the proposed modified EIT method, a block diagram of the crack image reconstruction algorithm and a method for processing the crack images, which provide the possibility for adjusting the sensitivity of the monitoring system, are considered. The main modules of the monitoring system software are described. Analysis of the imitative modeling results of the cracks registering processes as a function of size, shape, and the arrangement of cracks, the number of boundary contacts of the distributed sensor, the step of the grid, and the parameters of a digital filter are considered. Comparative analysis of the developed and standard EIT methods for surface cracks monitoring in constructive elements was performed.
Energy Loss Allocation in Smart Distribution Systems with Electric Vehicle Integration
Authors: De Oliveira-De Jesus Paulo M. , Rios Mario A. , Ramos Gustavo A.
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a three-phase loss allocation procedure for distribution networks. The key contribution of the paper is the computation of specific marginal loss coefficients (MLCs) per bus and per phase expressly considering non-linear load models for Electric Vehicles (EV). The method was applied in a unbalanced 12.47 kV feeder with 12,780 households and 1000 EVs under peak and off-peak load conditions. Results obtained were also compared with the traditional roll-in embedded allocation procedure (pro rata) using non-linear and standard constant power models. Results show the influence of the non-linear load model in the energy losses allocated. This result highlights the importance of considering an appropriate EV load model to appraise the overall losses encouraging the use and further development of the methodology
Single-Tube and Multi-Turn Coil Near-Field Wireless Power Transfer for Low-Power Home Appliances
Authors: Jawad Aqeel Mahmood , Nordin Rosdiadee , Gharghan Sadik Kamel , Jawad Haider Mahmood , Ismail Mahamod , Abu-AlShaeer Mahmood Jawad
Published: July 2018

Single-tube loop coil (STLC) and multi-turn copper wire coil (MTCWC) wireless power transfer (WPT) methods are proposed in this study to overcome the challenges of battery life during low-power home appliance operations. Transfer power, efficiency, and distance are investigated for charging mobile devices on the basis of the two proposed systems. The transfer distances of 1–15 cm are considered because the practicality of this range has been proven to be reliable in the current work on mobile device battery charging. For STLC, the Li-ion battery is charged with total system efficiencies of 86.45%, 77.08%, and 52.08%, without a load, at distances of 2, 6, and 15 cm, respectively. When the system is loaded with 100 Ω at the corresponding distances, the transfer efficiencies are reduced to 80.66%, 66.66%, and 47.04%. For MTCWC, the battery is charged with total system efficiencies of 88.54%, 75%, and 52.08%, without a load, at the same distances of 2, 6, and 15 cm. When the system is loaded with 100 Ω at the corresponding distances, the transfer efficiencies are drastically reduced to 39.52%, 33.6%, and 15.13%. The contrasting results, between the STLC and MTCWC methods, are produced because of the misalignment between their transmitters and receiver coils. In addition, the diameter of the MTCWC is smaller than that of the STLC. The output power of the proposed system can charge the latest smartphone in the market, with generated output powers of 5 W (STLC) and 2 W (MTCWC). The above WPT methods are compared with other WPT methods in the literature.
A New Lumped Parameter Model for Natural Gas Pipelines in State Space
Authors: Wen Kai , Xia Zijie , Yu Weichao , Gong Jing
Published: July 2018

Many algorithms and numerical methods, such as implicit and explicit finite differences and the method of characteristics, have been applied for transient flow in gas pipelines. From a computational point of view, the state space model is an effective method for solving complex transient problems in pipelines. However, the impulse output of the existing models is not the actual behavior of the pipeline. In this paper, a new lumped parameter model is proposed to describe the inertial nature of pipelines with inlet/outlet pressure and flow rate as outer variables in the state space. Starting from the basic mechanistic partial differential equations of the general one-dimensional compressible gas flow dynamics under isothermal conditions, the transfer functions are first acquired as the fundamental work. With Taylor-expansion and a transformation procedure, the inertia state space models are derived with proper simplification. Finally, three examples are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. With the model, a real-time automatic scheduling scheme of the natural gas pipeline could be possible in the future.
Multi-Step Ahead Wind Power Generation Prediction Based on Hybrid Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Dong Wei , Yang Qiang , Fang Xinli
Published: July 2018

Accurate generation prediction at multiple time-steps is of paramount importance for reliable and economical operation of wind farms. This study proposed a novel algorithmic solution using various forms of machine learning techniques in a hybrid manner, including phase space reconstruction (PSR), input variable selection (IVS), K-means clustering and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The PSR technique transforms the historical time series into a set of phase-space variables combining with the numerical weather prediction (NWP) data to prepare candidate inputs. A minimal redundancy maximal relevance (mRMR) criterion based filtering approach is used to automatically select the optimal input variables for the multi-step ahead prediction. Then, the input instances are divided into a set of subsets using the K-means clustering to train the ANFIS. The ANFIS parameters are further optimized to improve the prediction performance by the use of particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The proposed solution is extensively evaluated through case studies of two realistic wind farms and the numerical results clearly confirm its effectiveness and improved prediction accuracy compared to benchmark solutions.
Microgrid as a Cost-Effective Alternative to Rural Network Underground Cabling for Adequate Reliability
Authors: Uski Sanna , Rinne Erkka , Sarsama Janne
Published: July 2018

Microgrids can be used for securing the supply of power during network outages. Underground cabling of distribution networks is another effective but conventional and expensive alternative to enhance the reliability of the power supply. This paper first presents an analysis method for the determination of microgrid power supply adequacy during islanded operation and, second, presents a comparison method for the overall cost calculation of microgrids versus underground cabling. The microgrid power adequacy during a rather long network outage is required in order to indicate high level of reliability of the supply. The overall cost calculation considers the economic benefits and costs incurred, combined for both the distribution network company and the consumer. Whereas the microgrid setup determines the islanded-operation power adequacy and thus the reliability of the supply, the economic feasibility results from the normal operations and services. The methods are illustrated by two typical, and even critical, case studies in rural distribution networks: an electric-heated detached house and a dairy farm. These case studies show that even in the case of a single consumer, a microgrid option could be more economical than network renovation by underground cabling of a branch in order to increase the reliability.
Estimation of Energy Requirement of Jatropha Curcas L. Seedcake Briquettes under Compression Loading
Authors: Ivanova Tatiana , Kabutey Abraham , Herák David , Demirel Cimen
Published: July 2018

The energy requirement of Jatropha curcas L. seedcake of different dimensions (4.5, 5.6, 6.7, 8 and 10 mm) for briquette compaction was investigated under compression loading (100, 200, 300 and 400 kN) using the universal compression-testing machine. The parameters measured and/or calculated were the deformation, thickness, numerical energy and theoretical energy. The statistical analysis results show that compression forces had a significant effect (P-value < 0.05) on the amounts of deformation and thickness, while that of the dimensions of the sample did not. The increase in compression forces increased the numerical energy while that of samples dimensions caused a decrease. Using the tangent curve mathematical model; the force coefficient of mechanical behaviour (kN), the deformation coefficient of mechanical behaviour and the fitting curve function exponent were determined for describing the experimental dependency between the force and deformation curves as well as the numerical energies of densified jatropha seedcake briquettes.
Implementing Participatory Processes in Forestry Training Using Social Network Analysis Techniques
Authors: Blanc Simone , Lingua Federico , Bioglio Livio , Pensa Ruggero G. , Brun Filippo , Mosso Angela
Published: July 2018

Public participation has become an important driver in increasing public acceptance of policy decisions, especially in the forestry sector, where conflicting interests among the actors are frequent. Stakeholder Analysis, complemented by Social Network Analysis techniques, was used to support the participatory process and to understand the complex relationships and the strong interactions among actors. This study identifies the forestry training sector stakeholders in the Western Italian Alps and describes their characteristics and priorities, in relation to training activities on entrepreneurial topics for forestry loggers. The hierarchy among actors has been identified, highlighting their respective roles and influence in decision-making processes. A lack of mutual communication among different and well-separated categories of actors has been identified, while good connections between stakeholders, operating in different territories, despite the presence of administrative and logistical barriers, have been observed. Training is a topic involving actors with different roles and interests. Nevertheless, all actors consider training about how to improve yields of forest operations and how to assess investments, particularly in innovative machinery, to be crucially important and conducive to a better comprehension of the wood supply chain and the enhancement of the raw material.
Recombinant Diploid Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strain Development for Rapid Glucose and Xylose Co-Fermentation
Authors: Liu Tingting , Huang Shuangcheng , Geng Anli
Published: July 2018

Cost-effective production of cellulosic ethanol requires robust microorganisms for rapid co-fermentation of glucose and xylose. This study aims to develop a recombinant diploid xylose-fermenting Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain for efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass sugars to ethanol. Episomal plasmids harboring codon-optimized Piromyces sp. E2 xylose isomerase (PirXylA) and Orpinomyces sp. ukk1 xylose (OrpXylA) genes were constructed and transformed into S. cerevisiae. The strain harboring plasmids with tandem PirXylA was favorable for xylose utilization when xylose was used as the sole carbon source, while the strain harboring plasmids with tandem OrpXylA was beneficial for glucose and xylose cofermentation. PirXylA and OrpXylA genes were also individually integrated into the genome of yeast strains in multiple copies. Such integration was beneficial for xylose alcoholic fermentation. The respiration-deficient strain carrying episomal or integrated OrpXylA genes exhibited the best performance for glucose and xylose co-fermentation. This was partly attributed to the high expression levels and activities of xylose isomerase. Mating a respiration-efficient strain carrying the integrated PirXylA gene with a respiration-deficient strain harboring integrated OrpXylA generated a diploid recombinant xylose-fermenting yeast strain STXQ with enhanced cell growth and xylose fermentation. Co-fermentation of 162 g L−1 glucose and 95 g L−1 xylose generated 120.6 g L−1 ethanol in 23 h, with sugar conversion higher than 99%, ethanol yield of 0.47 g g−1, and ethanol productivity of 5.26 g L−1·h−1.
Optimization of Cactus Pear Fruit Fermentation Process for Wine Production
Authors: Tsegay Zenebe Tadesse , Sathyanarayana Chanukya Basavanahally , Lemma Solomon Mengistu
Published: July 2018

Cactus pear fruit (Opuntia ficus-indica) has a chemical composition that renders it an attractive substrate for wine fermentation. However, there have been serious post-harvest losses of cactus fruit due to its short shelf life. This study aims to investigate wine production from cactus pear fruit juice by optimizing fermentation temperature, pH, and inoculum concentration (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) to obtain optimum quality-indicative responses. Response surface methodology coupled with central composite rotatable design was adopted in the present study to achieve optimized fermentation process conditions. The fermentation process was carried out for 6 days with varied input variables, and all the models showed significant p-values for interaction of variance (<0.05). Cactus pear fruit wine with a total acidity of 12.39 ± 1.32 g/L equivalent to tartaric acid (TTAE), alcohol content of 9 ± 0.31%, v/v, total antioxidant concentration of 235.3 ± 9.15 mg/L AAE (Ascorbic acid equivalent), and sensory acceptance of 7.74 ± 0.34 was produced at an optimized temperature of 30 °C, pH of 3.9, and inoculum concentration of 16%. The developed models could predict the quality of wine developed from cactus pear fruit.
Genomic and Biotechnological Characterization of the Heavy-Metal Resistant, Arsenic-Oxidizing Bacterium Ensifer sp. M14
Authors: DiCenzo George C , Debiec Klaudia , Krzysztoforski Jan , Uhrynowski Witold , Mengoni Alessio , Fagorzi Camilla , Gorecki Adrian , Dziewit Lukasz , Bajda Tomasz , Rzepa Grzegorz , Drewniak Lukasz
Published: July 2018

Ensifer (Sinorhizobium) sp. M14 is an efficient arsenic-oxidizing bacterium (AOB) that displays high resistance to numerous metals and various stressors. Here, we report the draft genome sequence and genome-guided characterization of Ensifer sp. M14, and we describe a pilot-scale installation applying the M14 strain for remediation of arsenic-contaminated waters. The M14 genome contains 6874 protein coding sequences, including hundreds not found in related strains. Nearly all unique genes that are associated with metal resistance and arsenic oxidation are localized within the pSinA and pSinB megaplasmids. Comparative genomics revealed that multiple copies of high-affinity phosphate transport systems are common in AOBs, possibly as an As-resistance mechanism. Genome and antibiotic sensitivity analyses further suggested that the use of Ensifer sp. M14 in biotechnology does not pose serious biosafety risks. Therefore, a novel two-stage installation for remediation of arsenic-contaminated waters was developed. It consists of a microbiological module, where M14 oxidizes As(III) to As(V) ion, followed by an adsorption module for As(V) removal using granulated bog iron ores. During a 40-day pilot-scale test in an abandoned gold mine in Zloty Stok (Poland), water leaving the microbiological module generally contained trace amounts of As(III), and dramatic decreases in total arsenic concentrations were observed after passage through the adsorption module. These results demonstrate the usefulness of Ensifer sp. M14 in arsenic removal performed in environmental settings.
Gut Microbiota of Great Spotted Cuckoo Nestlings is a Mixture of Those of Their Foster Magpie Siblings and of Cuckoo Adults
Authors: Ruiz-Rodríguez Magdalena , Martín-Vivaldi Manuel , Martínez-Bueno Manuel , Soler Juan José
Published: July 2018

Diet and host genetic or evolutionary history are considered the two main factors determining gut microbiota of animals, although studies are scarce in natural populations. The system of great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) parasitizing magpies (Pica pica) is ideal to study both effects since magpie adults feed cuckoo and magpie nestlings with the same diet and, consequently, differences in gut microbiota of nestlings of these two species will mainly reflect the importance of genetic components. Moreover, the diet of adults and of nestling cuckoos drastically differ from each other and, thus, differences and similarities in their microbiotas would respectively reflect the effect of environmental and genetic factors. We used next-generation sequencing technologies to analyze the gut microbiota of cuckoo adults and nestlings and of magpie nestlings. The highest α-diversity estimates appeared in nestling cuckoos and the lowest in nestling magpies. Moreover, despite the greatest differences in the microbiome composition of magpies and cuckoos of both ages, cuckoo nestlings harbored a mixture of the Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) present in adult cuckoos and nestling magpies. We identified the bacterial taxa responsible for such results. These results suggest important phylogenetic components determining gut microbiome of nestlings, and that diet might be responsible for similarities between gut microbiome of cuckoo and magpie nestlings that allow cuckoos to digest food provided by magpie adults.
Assembly of the Mitochondrial Genome in the Campanulaceae Family Using Illumina Low-Coverage Sequencing
Authors: Lee Hyun-Oh , Choi Ji-Weon , Baek Jeong-Ho , Oh Jae-Hyeon , Lee Sang-Choon , Kim Chang-Kug
Published: July 2018

Platycodon grandiflorus (balloon flower) and Codonopsis lanceolata (bonnet bellflower) are important herbs used in Asian traditional medicine, and both belong to the botanical family Campanulaceae. In this study, we designed and implemented a de novo DNA sequencing and assembly strategy to map the complete mitochondrial genomes of the first two members of the Campanulaceae using low-coverage Illumina DNA sequencing data. We produced a total of 28.9 Gb of paired-end sequencing data from the genomic DNA of P. grandiflorus (20.9 Gb) and C. lanceolata (8.0 Gb). The assembled mitochondrial genome of P. grandiflorus was found to consist of two circular chromosomes; the master circle contains 56 genes, and the minor circle contains 42 genes. The C. lanceolata mitochondrial genome consists of a single circle harboring 54 genes. Using a comparative genome structure and a pattern of repeated sequences, we show that the P. grandiflorus minor circle resulted from a recombination event involving the direct repeats of the master circle. Our dataset will be useful for comparative genomics and for evolutionary studies, and will facilitate further biological and phylogenetic characterization of species in the Campanulaceae.
Use of Clinical Video Telehealth as a Tool for Optimizing Medications for Rural Older Veterans with Dementia
Authors: Chang Woody , Homer Marcia , Rossi Michelle I.
Published: July 2018

Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) allow delivery of primary care to rural veterans who are far from a main Veterans Affairs (VA) campus. However, CBOCs often do not have physicians with geriatric training. We used a clinical video telehealth (CVT) dementia service (Teledementia clinic) based in the Pittsburgh VA Healthcare System to optimize dementia patients’ medications and potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs). We analyzed 199 CVT patient encounters from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 and compared different medication changes per encounter between the initial CVT consults and the follow-up visits for all medications and PIMs as listed in the 2015 Beers Criteria, to see if there was a decrease of each kind of change, which is being used as a surrogate for optimization. We found that initial CVT consults, compared to follow-up visits, had greater medications added (0.731 vs. 0.434, p = 0.0092), total overall medications changes (1.769 vs. 1.130, p = 0.0078), and the stopping of 2015 Beers Criteria PIMs (0.208 vs. 0.072, p = 0.0255) per encounter. The fewer PIMs discontinued and fewer medication additions in follow-ups implies that our patients’ medications tend to stay optimized between visits. The teledementia service represents a novel way to provide geriatric assistance to CBOC VA primary care physicians for rural veterans with dementia.
Rapid Population Growth in Chinese Floodplains from 1990 to 2015
Authors: Fang Yongqiang , Du Shiqiang , Scussolini Paolo , Wen Jiahong , He Chunyang , Huang Qingxu , Gao Jun
Published: July 2018

Although China suffers from frequent and disastrous floods, the spatiotemporal pattern of its population living in the floodplain (PopF) is still unknown. This strongly limits our understanding of flood risk and the effectiveness of mitigation efforts. Here we present the first quantification of Chinese PopF and its dynamics, based on newly-available population datasets for years 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2015 and on a flood map. We found that the PopF in 2015 was 453.3 million and accounted for 33.0% of the total population, with a population density 3.6 times higher than outside floodplains. From 1990 to 2015, the PopF increased by 1.3% annually, overwhelmingly faster than elsewhere (0.5%). A rising proportion (from 53.2% in 1990 to 55.6% in 2015) of the PopF resided in flood zones deeper than 2 m. Moreover, the PopF is expected to increase rapidly in the coming decades. We also found the effect of flood memory on controlling PopF growth and its decay over time. These findings imply an exacerbating flood risk in China, which is concerning in the light of climate change and rapid socioeconomic development.
Relationships between Motor Proficiency and Academic Performance in Mathematics and Reading in School-Aged Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Macdonald Kirstin , Milne Nikki , Orr Robin , Pope Rodney
Published: July 2018

Positive associations exist between physical activity, cognition, and academic performance in children and adolescents. Further research is required to examine which factors underpin the relationships between physical activity and academic performance. This systematic review aimed to identify, critically appraise, and synthesize findings of studies examining relationships between motor proficiency and academic performance in mathematics and reading in typically developing school-aged children and adolescents. A systematic search of electronic databases was performed to identify relevant studies. Fifty-five eligible articles were critically appraised and key data was extracted and synthesized. Findings support associations between several components of motor proficiency and academic performance in mathematics and reading. There was evidence that fine motor proficiency was significantly and positively associated with academic performance in mathematics and reading, particularly during the early years of school. Significant positive associations were also evident between academic performance and components of gross motor proficiency, specifically speed and agility, upper-limb coordination, and total gross motor scores. Preliminary evidence from a small number of experimental studies suggests motor skill interventions in primary school settings may have a positive impact on academic performance in mathematics and/or reading. Future research should include more robust study designs to explore more extensively the impact of motor skill interventions on academic performance.
Characteristic Analysis of Unsafe Behavior by Coal Miners: Multi-Dimensional Description of the Pan-Scene Data
Authors: Tong Ruipeng , Zhang Yanwei , Cui Pengcheng , Zhai Cunli , Shi Meng , Xu Surui
Published: July 2018

As a high-risk occupation, coal mining has many accidents, primarily due to the unsafe behavior of coal miners. Based on the research of analysis of unsafe behavior and pan-scenario data of miners, a theoretical framework for the analysis of unsafe behavior characteristics was proposed in this paper. The collected data were divided into realistic scenes and abstract scenes according to different manifestations; the pan-scene data were described from the eight dimensions of time, behavioral trace, location, behavioral property, behavioral individual, degree, unsafe action, and specialty using a quantitative method for the structure conversion; and the rules were discovered through cluster analysis and association analysis. A total of 225 coal mine gas explosion accidents were used for analysis, and the pan-scene data description and structure conversion of unsafe behavior that caused these accidents were realized. In a certain cluster, the distribution rules of dimensions and the interaction between different dimensions of unsafe behavior were explored after analysis. The results show that the proposed eight dimensions can fully explain the basic characteristics and attributes of the unsafe behavior of coal miners. The structure conversion can reduce the workload of managers and effectively improve the safety data processing capabilities, and the result of data analysis can provide data support and a management basis for safety management. A new method and thought for the data analysis of miners’ unsafe behavior is provided.
Differentiation of Adsorptive and Viscous Effects of Dietary Fibres on Bile Acid Release by Means of In Vitro Digestion and Dialysis
Authors: Naumann Susanne , Schweiggert-Weisz Ute , Bader-Mittermaier Stephanie , Haller Dirk , Eisner Peter
Published: July 2018

To explain the cholesterol-reducing effects of dietary fibres, one of the major mechanisms proposed is the reduced reabsorption of bile acids in the ileum. The interaction of dietary fibres with bile acids is associated with their viscous or adsorptive effects. Since these fibre characteristics are difficult to investigate in vivo, suitable in vitro methodologies can contribute to understanding the mechanistic principles. We compared the commonly used centrifugal approach with a modified dialysis method using dietary fibre-rich materials from different sources (i.e., barley, citrus, lupin, and potato). Digestion was simulated in vitro with oral, gastric, and small intestinal digestion environments. The chyme was dialysed and released bile acids were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The centrifugation method showed adsorptive effects only for cholestyramine (reference material) and a high-fibre barley product (1.4 µmol taurocholic acid/100 mg dry matter). Alternatively, the dialysis approach showed higher values of bile acid adsorption (2.3 µmol taurocholic acid/100 mg dry matter) for the high-fibre barley product. This indicated an underestimated adsorption when using the centrifugation method. The results also confirmed that the dialysis method can be used to understand the influence of viscosity on bile acid release. This may be due to entrapment of bile acids in the viscous chyme matrix. Further studies on fibre structure and mechanisms responsible for viscous effects are required to understand the formation of entangled networks responsible for the entrapment of the bile acids.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Multiple Hormones, Wounding and Sugar Signaling Pathways Mediate Adventitious Root Formation in Apple Rootstock
Authors: Li Ke , Liang Yongqi , Xing Libo , Mao Jiangping , Liu Zhen , Dong Feng , Meng Yuan , Han Mingyu , Zhao Caiping , Bao Lu , Zhang Dong
Published: July 2018

Adventitious roots (AR) play an important role in the vegetative propagation of apple rootstocks. The potential role of hormone, wounding, and sugar signalling pathways in mediating AR formation has not been adequately explored and the whole co-expression network in AR formation has not been well established in apple. In order to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying AR formation in ‘T337’ apple rootstocks, transcriptomic changes that occur during four stages of AR formation (0, 3, 9 and 16 days) were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing. A total of 4294 differentially expressed genes were identified. Approximately 446 genes related to hormones, wounding, sugar signaling, root development, and cell cycle induction pathways were subsequently selected based on their potential to be involved in AR formation. RT-qPCR validation of 47 genes with known functions exhibited a strong positive correlation with the RNA-seq data. Interestingly, most of the candidate genes involved in AR formation that were identified by transcriptomic sequencing showed auxin-responsive expression patterns in an exogenous Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA)-treatment assay: Indicating that endogenous and exogenous auxin plays key roles in regulating AR formation via similar signalling pathways to some extent. In general, AR formation in apple rootstocks is a complex biological process which is mainly influenced by the auxin signaling pathway. In addition, multiple hormones-, wounding- and sugar-signaling pathways interact with the auxin signaling pathway and mediate AR formation in apple rootstocks.
Chemokine CCL25 Induces Migration and Extracellular Matrix Production of Anulus Fibrosus-Derived Cells
Authors: Stich Stefan , Möller Anke , Cabraja Mario , Krüger Jan Philipp , Hondke Sylvia , Endres Michaela , Ringe Jochen , Sittinger Michael
Published: July 2018

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a major source of back pain. For intervertebral disc regeneration after herniation a fast closure of anulus fibrosus (AF) defects is crucial. Here, the use of the C-C motif chemokine ligand 25 (CCL)25 in comparison to differentiation factors such as transforming growth factor (TGF)β3, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)2, BMP7, BMP12, and BMP14 (all in concentrations of 10, 50 and 100 ng/mL) was tested in an in vitro micro mass pellet model with isolated and cultivated human AF-cells (n = 3) to induce and enhance AF-matrix formation. The pellets were differentiated (serum-free) with supplementation of the factors. After 28 days all used factors induced proteoglycan production (safranin O staining) and collagen type I production (immunohistochemical staining) in at least one of the tested concentrations. Histomorphometric scoring revealed that TGFβ3 delivered the strongest induction of proteoglycan production in all three concentrations. Furthermore, it was the only factor able to facilitate collagen type II production, even higher than in native tissue samples. CCL25 was also able to induce proteoglycan and collagen type I production comparable to several BMPs. CCL25 could additionally induce migration of AF-cells in a chemotaxis assay and therefore possibly aid in regeneration processes after disc herniation by recruiting AF-cells.
Chemopreventive Effects of Phytochemicals and Medicines on M1/M2 Polarized Macrophage Role in Inflammation-Related Diseases
Authors: Koh Yen-Chun , Yang Guliang , Lai Ching-Shu , Weerawatanakorn Monthana , Pan Min-Hsiung
Published: July 2018

Macrophages can polarize into two different states (M1 and M2), which play contrasting roles during pathogenesis or tissue damage. M1 polarized macrophages produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators resulting in inflammation, while M2 macrophages have an anti-inflammatory effect. Secretion of appropriate cytokines and chemokines from macrophages can lead to the modification of the microenvironment for bridging innate and adaptive immune responses. Increasing evidence suggests that polarized macrophages are pivotal for disease progression, and the regulation of macrophage polarization may provide a new approach in therapeutic treatment of inflammation-related diseases, including cancer, obesity and metabolic diseases, fibrosis in organs, brain damage and neuron injuries, and colorectal disease. Polarized macrophages affect the microenvironment by secreting cytokines and chemokines while cytokines or mediators that are produced by resident cells or tissues may also influence macrophages behavior. The interplay of macrophages and other cells can affect disease progression, and therefore, understanding the activation of macrophages and the interaction between polarized macrophages and disease progression is imperative prior to taking therapeutic or preventive actions. Manipulation of macrophages can be an entry point for disease improvement, but the mechanism and potential must be understood. In this review, some advanced studies regarding the role of macrophages in different diseases, potential mechanisms involved, and intervention of drugs or phytochemicals, which are effective on macrophage polarization, will be discussed.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Lactobacillus on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Chen Xiaoyong , Zhang Jing , Yi Ruokun , Mu Jianfei , Zhao Xin , Yang Zhennai
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the effects of heat-killed and live Lactobacillus on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury mice. The indexes evaluated included liver pathological changes, the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum, related gene expression (IL-1β, TNF-α, Bcl-2, and Bax), and related proteins levels (Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase 3, and NF-κB p65). Compared with the model group, the results indicated that the levels of ALT, AST, and MDA in the serum, the expression levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and Bax, and the protein levels of Bax, Caspase 3, and NF-κB p65 significantly decreased, and the pathologic damage degree all significantly reduced after live Lactobacillus fermentum (L-LF) and live Lactobacillus plantarum (L-LP) treatment. Additionally, the levels of SOD and GSH in the serum, the gene expression of Bcl-2, and the protein level of Bcl-2 significantly increased after L-LF and L-LP treatment. Although HK-LF and HK-LP could also have obvious regulating effects on some of the evaluated indexes (ALT, AST, the expression levels of TNF-α and Bax, and the protein level of Bcl-2) and play an important role in weakening liver damage, the regulating effects of L-LF or L-LP on these indexes were all better compared with the corresponding heat-killed Lactobacillus fermentum (HK-LF) and heat-killed Lactobacillus plantarum (HK-LP). Therefore, these results suggested that LF and LP have an important role in liver disease.
Novel Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone Analogue Inhibits Adipogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells through the Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Han Ga Eun , Kang Hee-Taik , Chung Sungkyun , Lim Changjin , Linton John A. , Lee Jin-Hee , Kim Wooki , Kim Seok-Ho , Lee Jong Hun
Published: July 2018

Obesity, characterized by excess lipid accumulation, has emerged as a leading public health problem. Excessive, adipocyte-induced lipid accumulation raises the risk of metabolic disorders. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that can be obtained from abundant adipose tissue. High fat mass could be caused by an increase in the size (hypertrophy) and number (hyperplasia) of adipocytes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the adipogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs). Lowering the level of ROS is important to blocking or retarding the adipogenic differentiation of hASCs. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that mediates various antioxidant enzymes and regulates cellular ROS levels. Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (NHDC), widely used as artificial sweetener, has been shown to have significant free radical scavenging activity. In the present study, (E)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (CTP), a novel NHDC analogue, was synthesized and examined to determine whether it could inhibit adipogenic differentiation. The inhibition of adipogenic differentiation in hASCs was tested using NHDC and CTP. In the CTP group, reduced Oil Red O staining was observed compared with the differentiation group. CTP treatment also downregulated the expression of PPAR-γ and C/EBP-α, adipogenic differentiation markers in hASCs, compared to the adipogenic differentiation group. The expression of FAS and SREBP-1 decreased in the CTP group, along with the fluorescent intensity (amount) of ROS. Expression of the Nrf2 protein was slightly decreased in the differentiation group. Meanwhile, in both the NHDC and CTP groups, Nrf2 expression was restored to the level of the control group. Moreover, the expression of HO-1 and NQO-1 increased significantly in the CTP group. Taken together, these results suggest that CTP treatment suppresses the adipogenic differentiation of hASCs by decreasing intracellular ROS, possibly through activation of the Nrf2 cytoprotective pathway. Thus, the use of bioactive substances such as CTP, which activates Nrf2 to reduce the cellular level of ROS and inhibit the adipogenic differentiation of hASCs, could be a new strategy for overcoming obesity.
Inhibition of BET Proteins Reduces Right Ventricle Hypertrophy and Pulmonary Hypertension Resulting from Combined Hypoxia and Pulmonary Inflammation
Authors: Chabert Clovis , Khochbin Saadi , Rousseaux Sophie , Veyrenc Sylvie , Furze Rebecca , Smithers Nicholas , Prinjha Rab K , Schlattner Uwe , Pison Christophe , Dubouchaud Hervé
Published: July 2018

Pulmonary hypertension is a co-morbidity, which strongly participates in morbi-mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Recent findings showed that bromodomain-containing proteins, in charge of reading histone acetylation, could be involved in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Our aim was to study the effect of I-BET151, an inhibitor of bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET), on the right ventricle hypertrophy and pulmonary hypertension, induced by a combination of chronic hypoxia and pulmonary inflammation, as the two main stimuli encountered in COPD. Adult Wistar male rats, exposed to chronic hypoxia plus pulmonary inflammation (CHPI), showed a significant right ventricle hypertrophy (+57%, p < 0.001), an increase in systolic pressure (+46%, p < 0.001) and in contraction speed (+36%, p < 0.001), when compared to control animals. I-BET151 treated animals (CHPI-iB) showed restored hemodynamic parameters to levels similar to control animals, despite chronic hypoxia plus exposure to pulmonary inflammation. They displayed lower right ventricle hypertrophy and hematocrit compared to the CHPI group (respectively −16%, p < 0.001; and −9%, p < 0.05). Our descriptive study shows a valuable effect of the inhibition of bromodomain and extra-terminal domain proteins on hemodynamic parameters, despite the presence of chronic hypoxia and pulmonary inflammation. This suggests that such inhibition could be of potential interest for COPD patients with pulmonary hypertension. Further studies are needed to unravel the underlying mechanisms involved and the net benefits of inhibiting adaptations to chronic hypoxia.
mTOR-Related Brain Dysfunctions in Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Ryskalin Larisa , Limanaqi Fiona , Frati Alessandro , Busceti Carla L. , Fornai Francesco
Published: July 2018

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is an ubiquitously expressed serine-threonine kinase, which senses and integrates several intracellular and environmental cues to orchestrate major processes such as cell growth and metabolism. Altered mTOR signalling is associated with brain malformation and neurological disorders. Emerging evidence indicates that even subtle defects in the mTOR pathway may produce severe effects, which are evident as neurological and psychiatric disorders. On the other hand, administration of mTOR inhibitors may be beneficial for a variety of neuropsychiatric alterations encompassing neurodegeneration, brain tumors, brain ischemia, epilepsy, autism, mood disorders, drugs of abuse, and schizophrenia. mTOR has been widely implicated in synaptic plasticity and autophagy activation. This review addresses the role of mTOR-dependent autophagy dysfunction in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, to focus mainly on psychiatric syndromes including schizophrenia and drug addiction. For instance, amphetamines-induced addiction fairly overlaps with some neuropsychiatric disorders including neurodegeneration and schizophrenia. For this reason, in the present review, a special emphasis is placed on the role of mTOR on methamphetamine-induced brain alterations.