bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous-Scale 3D Terrain Visualization Based on a Detail-Increment Model
Authors: Ai Bo , Wang Linyun , Yang Fanlin , Bu Xianhai , Lin Yaoyao , Lv Guannan
Published: October 2019

Triangulated irregular networks (TINs) are widely used in terrain visualization due to their accuracy and efficiency. However, the conventional algorithm for multi-scale terrain rendering, based on TIN, has many problems, such as data redundancy and discontinuities in scale transition. To solve these issues, a method based on a detail-increment model for the construction of a continuous-scale hierarchical terrain model is proposed. First, using the algorithm of edge collapse, based on a quadric error metric (QEM), a complex terrain base model is processed to a most simplified model version. Edge collapse records at different scales are stored as compressed incremental information in order to make the rendering as simple as possible. Then, the detail-increment hierarchical terrain model is built using the incremental information and the most simplified model version. Finally, the square root of the mean minimum quadric error (MMQE), calculated by the points at each scale, is considered the smallest visible object (SVO) threshold that allows for the scale transition with the required scale or the visual range. A point cloud from Yanzhi island is converted into a hierarchical TIN model to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that the method has low data redundancy, and no error existed in the topology. It can therefore meet the basic requirements of hierarchical visualization.
Oncofertility: Pharmacological Protection and Immature Testicular Tissue (ITT)-Based Strategies for Prepubertal and Adolescent Male Cancer Patients
Authors: Ntemou Elissavet , Alexandri Chrysanthi , Lybaert Pascale , Goossens Ellen , Demeestere Isabelle
Published: October 2019

While the incidence of cancer in children and adolescents has significantly increased over the last decades, improvements made in the field of cancer therapy have led to an increased life expectancy for childhood cancer survivors. However, the gonadotoxic effect of the treatments may lead to infertility. Although semen cryopreservation represents the most efficient and safe fertility preservation method for males producing sperm, it is not feasible for prepubertal boys. The development of an effective strategy based on the pharmacological protection of the germ cells and testicular function during gonadotoxic exposure is a non-invasive preventive approach that prepubertal boys could benefit from. However, the progress in this field is slow. Currently, cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) containing spermatogonial stem cells is offered to prepubertal boys as an experimental fertility preservation strategy by a number of medical centers. Several in vitro and in vivo fertility restoration approaches based on the use of ITT have been developed so far with autotransplantation of ITT appearing more promising. In this review, we discuss the pharmacological approaches for fertility protection in prepubertal and adolescent boys and the fertility restoration approaches developed on the utilization of ITT.
The Mechanisms Underlying the Cytotoxic Effects of Copper Via Differentiated Embryonic Chondrocyte Gene 1
Authors: Chen Ssu-Yu , Liu Shu-Ting , Lin Wun-Rong , Lin Chi-Kang , Huang Shih-Ming
Published: October 2019

Copper is an essential trace element within cells, but it also exerts cytotoxic effects through induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. To determine the mechanisms underlying copper-induced ROS production, we examined the effects of copper sulfate in HeLa cells. Exposure to copper sulfate led to dose-dependent decreases in HeLa cell viability, along with increases in the subG1 and G2/M populations and corresponding decreases in the G1 population. Copper sulfate also increased the levels of apoptosis, senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, ROS, and the expression of several stress proteins, including ATF3, c-Fos, DEC1 (differentiated embryonic chondrocyte gene 1), p21, p53, and HIF-1α (hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha). The suppression of copper-induced ROS generation by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine verified copper’s functional role, while the suppression of copper’s effects by the copper chelator disulfiram, confirmed its specificity. Selective induction of HIF-1α, p53, and phosphorylated ERK proteins by copper was blocked by the knockdown of the transcription factor DEC1, suggesting copper’s effects are mediated by DEC1. In addition to HeLa cells, copper also exerted cytotoxic effects in human endometrial (HEC-1-A) and lung (A549) adenocarcinoma cells, but not in normal human kidney (HEK293) or bronchial (Beas-2B) epithelial cells. These findings shed new light on the functional roles of copper within cells.
The ST2/Interleukin-33 Axis in Hematologic Malignancies: The IL-33 Paradox
Authors: Allegra Alessandro , Innao Vanessa , Tartarisco Gennaro , Pioggia Giovanni , Casciaro Marco , Musolino Caterina , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: October 2019

Interleukin (IL)-33 is a chromatin-related nuclear interleukin that is a component of IL-1 family. IL-33 production augments the course of inflammation after cell damage or death. It is discharged into the extracellular space. IL-33 is regarded as an “alarmin” able to stimulate several effectors of the immune system, regulating numerous immune responses comprising cancer immune reactions. IL-33 has been demonstrated to influence tumorigenesis. However, as far as this cytokine is concerned, we are faced with what has sometimes been defined as the IL-33 paradox. Several studies have demonstrated a relevant role of IL-33 to numerous malignancies, where it may have pro- and—less frequently—antitumorigenic actions. In the field of hematological malignancies, the role of IL-33 seems even more complex. Although we can affirm the existence of a negative role of IL-33 in Chronic myelogenos leukemia (CML) and in lymphoproliferative diseases and a positive role in pathologies such as Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the action of IL-33 seems to be multiple and sometimes contradictory within the same pathology. In the future, we will have to learn to govern the negative aspects of activating the IL-33/ST2 axis and exploit the positive ones.
Neutrophil-Derived Microvesicle Induced Dysfunction of Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells In Vitro
Authors: Ajikumar Anjana , Long Merete B. , Heath Paul R. , Wharton Stephen B. , Ince Paul G. , Ridger Victoria C. , Simpson Julie E.
Published: October 2019

The blood-brain barrier (BBB), composed of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMEC) that are tightly linked by tight junction (TJ) proteins, restricts the movement of molecules between the periphery and the central nervous system. Elevated systemic levels of neutrophils have been detected in patients with altered BBB function, but the role of neutrophils in BMEC dysfunction is unknown. Neutrophils are key players of the immune response and, when activated, produce neutrophil-derived microvesicles (NMV). NMV have been shown to impact the integrity of endothelial cells throughout the body and we hypothesize that NMV released from circulating neutrophils interact with BMEC and induce endothelial cell dysfunction. Therefore, the current study investigated the interaction of NMV with human BMEC and determined whether they altered gene expression and function in vitro. Using flow cytometry and confocal imaging, NMV were shown to be internalized by the human cerebral microvascular endothelial cell line hCMEC/D3 via a variety of energy-dependent mechanisms, including endocytosis and macropinocytosis. The internalization of NMV significantly altered the transcriptomic profile of hCMEC/D3, specifically inducing the dysregulation of genes associated with TJ, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and vesicular transport. Functional studies confirmed NMV significantly increased permeability and decreased the transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) of a confluent monolayer of hCMEC/D3. These findings indicate that NMV interact with and affect gene expression of BMEC as well as impacting their integrity. We conclude that NMV may play an important role in modulating the permeability of BBB during an infection.
Light- and Temperature-Induced Expression of an R2R3-MYB Gene Regulates Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Red-Fleshed Kiwifruit
Authors: Yu Min , Man Yuping , Wang Yanchang
Published: October 2019

The R2R3 MYB genes associated with the flavonoid/anthocyanidin pathway feature two repeats, and represent the most abundant classes of MYB genes in plants; however, the physiological role and regulatory function of most R2R3 MYBs remain poorly understood in kiwifruit (Actinidia). Here, genome-wide analysis identified 155 R2R3-MYBs in the ‘Red 5′ version of the Actinidia chinensis genome. Out of 36 anthocyanin-related AccR2R3-MYBs, AcMYB10 was the most highly expressed in inner pericarp of red-fleshed kiwifruit. The expression of AcMYB10 was highly correlated with anthocyanin accumulation in natural pigmentation during fruit ripening and light-/temperature-induced pigmentation in the callus. AcMYB10 is localized in the nuclei and has transcriptional activation activity. Overexpression of AcMYB10 elevates anthocyanin accumulation in transgenic A. chinensis. In comparison, A. chinensis fruit infiltrated with virus-induced gene silencing showed delayed red coloration, lower anthocyanin content, and lower expression of AcMYB10. The transient expression experiment in Nicotiana tabacum leaves and Actinidia arguta fruit indicated the interaction of AcMYB10 with AcbHLH42 might strongly activate anthocyanin biosynthesis by activating the transcription of AcLDOX and AcF3GT. In conclusion, this study provides novel molecular information about R2R3-MYBs in kiwifruit, advances our understanding of light- and temperature-induced anthocyanin accumulation, and demonstrates the important function of AcMYB10 in the biosynthesis of anthocyanin in kiwifruit.
Influence of the First Chromophore-Forming Residue on Photobleaching and Oxidative Photoconversion of EGFP and EYFP
Authors: Sen Tirthendu , Mamontova Anastasia , Titelmayer Anastasia , Shakhov Aleksander , Astafiev Artyom , Acharya Atanu , Lukyanov Konstantin , Krylov Anna , Bogdanov Alexey
Published: October 2019

Enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)—one of the most widely applied genetically encoded fluorescent probes—carries the threonine-tyrosine-glycine (TYG) chromophore. EGFP efficiently undergoes green-to-red oxidative photoconversion (“redding”) with electron acceptors. Enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP), a close EGFP homologue (five amino acid substitutions), has a glycine-tyrosine-glycine (GYG) chromophore and is much less susceptible to redding, requiring halide ions in addition to the oxidants. In this contribution we aim to clarify the role of the first chromophore-forming amino acid in photoinduced behavior of these fluorescent proteins. To that end, we compared photobleaching and redding kinetics of EGFP, EYFP, and their mutants with reciprocally substituted chromophore residues, EGFP-T65G and EYFP-G65T. Measurements showed that T65G mutation significantly increases EGFP photostability and inhibits its excited-state oxidation efficiency. Remarkably, while EYFP-G65T demonstrated highly increased spectral sensitivity to chloride, it is also able to undergo redding chloride-independently. Atomistic calculations reveal that the GYG chromophore has an increased flexibility, which facilitates radiationless relaxation leading to the reduced fluorescence quantum yield in the T65G mutant. The GYG chromophore also has larger oscillator strength as compared to TYG, which leads to a shorter radiative lifetime (i.e., a faster rate of fluorescence). The faster fluorescence rate partially compensates for the loss of quantum efficiency due to radiationless relaxation. The shorter excited-state lifetime of the GYG chromophore is responsible for its increased photostability and resistance to redding. In EYFP and EYFP-G65T, the chromophore is stabilized by π-stacking with Tyr203, which suppresses its twisting motions relative to EGFP.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 is Key Effector of TNF-α-Induced Collagen Degradation in Skin
Authors: Mirastschijski Ursula , Lupše Blaž , Maedler Kathrin , Sarma Bhavishya , Radtke Arlo , Belge Gazanfer , Dorsch Martina , Wedekind Dirk , McCawley Lisa J. , Boehm Gabriele , Zier Ulrich , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Kelm Sørge , Ågren Magnus S.
Published: October 2019

Inflammatory processes in the skin augment collagen degradation due to the up-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The aim of the present project was to study the specific impact of MMP-3 on collagen loss in skin and its interplay with the collagenase MMP-13 under inflammatory conditions mimicked by the addition of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Skin explants from MMP-3 knock-out (KO) mice or from transgenic (TG) mice overexpressing MMP-3 in the skin and their respective wild-type counterparts (WT and WTT) were incubated ex vivo for eight days. The rate of collagen degradation, measured by released hydroxyproline, was reduced (p < 0.001) in KO skin explants compared to WT control skin but did not differ (p = 0.47) between TG and WTT skin. Treatment with the MMP inhibitor GM6001 reduced hydroxyproline media levels from WT, WTT and TG but not from KO skin explants. TNF-α increased collagen degradation in the WT group (p = 0.0001) only. More of the active form of MMP-13 was observed in the three MMP-3 expressing groups (co-incubation with receptor-associated protein stabilized MMP-13 subforms and enhanced detection in the media). In summary, the innate level of MMP-3 seems responsible for the accelerated loss of cutaneous collagen under inflammatory conditions, possibly via MMP-13 in mice.
The Predictive Role of the Biomarker Kidney Molecule-1 (KIM-1) in Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Tanase Daniela Maria , Gosav Evelina Maria , Radu Smaranda , Costea Claudia Florida , Ciocoiu Manuela , Carauleanu Alexandru , Lacatusu Cristina Mihaela , Maranduca Minela Aida , Floria Mariana , Rezus Ciprian
Published: October 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following platinum-based chemotherapeutics is a frequently reported serious side-effect. However, there are no approved biomarkers that can properly identify proximal tubular injury while routine assessments such as serum creatinine lack sensitivity. Kidney-injury-molecule 1 (KIM-1) is showing promise in identifying cisplatin-induced renal injury both in vitro and in vivo studies. In this review, we focus on describing the mechanisms of renal tubular cells cisplatin-induced apoptosis, the associated inflammatory response and oxidative stress and the role of KIM-1 as a possible biomarker used to predict cisplatin associated AKI.
Hyperacetylation of Cardiac Mitochondrial Proteins Is Associated with Metabolic Impairment and Sirtuin Downregulation after Chronic Total Body Irradiation of ApoE -/- Mice
Authors: Barjaktarovic Zarko , Merl-Pham Juliane , Braga-Tanaka Ignacia , Tanaka Satoshi , Hauck Stefanie M. , Saran Anna , Mancuso Mariateresa , Atkinson Michael J. , Tapio Soile , Azimzadeh Omid
Published: October 2019

Chronic exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Alteration in energy metabolism has been suggested to contribute to radiation-induced heart pathology, mitochondrial dysfunction being a hallmark of this disease. The goal of this study was to investigate the regulatory role of acetylation in heart mitochondria in the long-term response to chronic radiation. ApoE-deficient C57Bl/6J mice were exposed to low-dose-rate (20 mGy/day) gamma radiation for 300 days, resulting in a cumulative total body dose of 6.0 Gy. Heart mitochondria were isolated and analyzed using quantitative proteomics. Radiation-induced proteome and acetylome alterations were further validated using immunoblotting, enzyme activity assays, and ELISA. In total, 71 proteins showed peptides with a changed acetylation status following irradiation. The great majority (94%) of the hyperacetylated proteins were involved in the TCA cycle, fatty acid oxidation, oxidative stress response and sirtuin pathway. The elevated acetylation patterns coincided with reduced activity of mitochondrial sirtuins, increased the level of Acetyl-CoA, and were accompanied by inactivation of major cardiac metabolic regulators PGC-1 alpha and PPAR alpha. These observations suggest that the changes in mitochondrial acetylation after irradiation is associated with impairment of heart metabolism. We propose a novel mechanism involved in the development of late cardiac damage following chronic irradiation.
Fusaricidin Produced by Paenibacillus polymyxa WLY78 Induces Systemic Resistance against Fusarium Wilt of Cucumber
Authors: Li Yunlong , Chen Sanfeng
Published: October 2019

Cucumber is an important vegetable crop in China. Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne disease that can significantly reduce cucumber yields. Paenibacillus polymyxa WLY78 can strongly inhibit Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cucumerium, which causes Fusarium wilt disease. In this study, we screened the genome of WLY78 and found eight potential antibiotic biosynthesis gene clusters. Mutation analysis showed that among the eight clusters, the fusaricidin synthesis (fus) gene cluster is involved in inhibiting the Fusarium genus, Verticillium albo-atrum, Monilia persoon, Alternaria mali, Botrytis cinereal, and Aspergillus niger. Further mutation analysis revealed that with the exception of fusTE, the seven genes fusG, fusF, fusE, fusD, fusC, fusB, and fusA within the fus cluster were all involved in inhibiting fungi. This is the first time that demonstrated that fusTE was not essential. We first report the inhibitory mode of fusaricidin to inhibit spore germination and disrupt hyphal membranes. A biocontrol assay demonstrated that fusaricidin played a major role in controlling Fusarium wilt disease. Additionally, qRT-PCR demonstrated that fusaricidin could induce systemic resistance via salicylic acid (SA) signal against Fusarium wilt of cucumber. WLY78 is the first reported strain to both produce fusaricidin and fix nitrogen. Therefore, our results demonstrate that WLY78 will have great potential as a biocontrol agent in agriculture.
Mutation of ONAC096 Enhances Grain Yield by Increasing Panicle Number and Delaying Leaf Senescence during Grain Filling in Rice
Authors: Kang Kiyoon , Shim Yejin , Gi Eunji , An Gynheung , Paek Nam-Chon
Published: October 2019

Exploring genetic methods to improve yield in grain crops such as rice (Oryza sativa) is essential to help meet the needs of the increasing population. Here, we report that rice ONAC096 affects grain yield by regulating leaf senescence and panicle number. ONAC096 expression increased rapidly in rice leaves upon the initiation of aging- and dark-induced senescence. Two independent T-DNA insertion mutants (onac096-1 and onac096-2) with downregulated ONAC096 expression retained their green leaf color during natural senescence in the field, thus extending their photosynthetic capacity. Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR analysis showed that ONAC096 upregulated genes controlling chlorophyll degradation and leaf senescence. Repressed OsCKX2 (encoding cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase) expression in the onac096 mutants led to a 15% increase in panicle number without affecting grain weight or fertility. ONAC096 mediates abscisic acid (ABA)-induced leaf senescence by upregulating the ABA signaling genes ABA INSENSITIVE5 and ENHANCED EM LEVEL. The onac096 mutants showed a 16% increase in grain yield, highlighting the potential for using this gene to increase grain production.
Comparative Analysis of Intra- and Inter-Specific Genomic Variability in the Peach Potato Aphid, Myzus persicae
Authors: Mandrioli Mauro , Salvatore Deborah , Ferrari Agnese , Patelli Niccolò , Manicardi Gian Carlo
Published: October 2019

The availability of genomic data in the last decade relating to different aphid species has allowed the analysis of the genomic variability occurring among such species, whereas intra-specific variability has hitherto very largely been neglected. In order to analyse the intra-genomic variability in the peach potato aphid, Myzus persicae, comparative analyses were performed revealing several clone-specific gene duplications, together with numerous deletions/rearrangements. Our comparative approach also allowed us to evaluate the synteny existing between the two M. persicae clones tested and between the peach potato aphid and the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum. Even if part of the observed rearrangements are related to a low quality of some assembled contigs and/or to the high number of contigs present in these aphid genomes, our evidence reveals that aphid clones are genetically more different than expected. These results suggest that the choice of performing genomes sequencing combining different biotypes/populations, as revealed in the case of the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines, is unlikely to be very informative in aphids. Interestingly, it is possible that the holocentric nature of aphid chromosomes favours genome rearrangements that can be successively inherited transgenerationally via the aphid’s apomictic (parthenogenetic) mode of reproduction. Lastly, we evaluated the structure of the cluster of genes coding for the five histones (H1, H2A, H2B, H3 and H4) in order to better understand the quality of the two M. persicae genomes and thereby to improve our knowledge of this functionally important gene family.
A TUG Value Longer Than 11 s Predicts Fall Risk at 6-Month in Individuals with COPD
Authors: Reynaud Vivien , Muti Daniela , Pereira Bruno , Greil Annick , Caillaud Denis , Richard Ruddy , Coudeyre Emmanuel , Costes Frédéric
Published: October 2019

Risk of a fall is increased in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and is usually evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), but this is difficult to perform in everyday clinical practice. We aimed to prospectively predict short-term fall recurrence in COPD patients using a predetermined cut-off value of the Timed Up and Go test (TUG). In stable COPD patients, we collected self-reported records of the number of falls in the previous year, and measured TUG and BBS scores for each individual. Records of fall recurrence were obtained prospectively at 6-months after the initial evaluation. Among the 50 patients recruited, 23 (46%) had at least one fall during the past year. The optimal diagnosis value for the TUG to detect a fall was 10.9 s with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 97%. A cut-off of 11 s predicted fall recurrence with high sensitivity and specificity (93% and 74%, respectively). The TUG as well as the BBS score detected fallers, and a cut-off value of 11 s predicted fall recurrence. TUG could be easily incorporated into the scheduled functional evaluations of COPD patients, could predict the risk of a fall and when appropriate, could guide specific balance training exercises to prevent fall.
Echocardiographic Pulmonary to Left Atrial Ratio (ePLAR): A Comparison Study between Ironman Athletes, Age Matched Controls and A General Community Cohort
Authors: Tran Mai , Kwon Agatha , Holt David , Kierle Rebecca , Fitzgerald Benjamin , Scalia Isabel , Scalia William , Holt Geoffrey , Scalia Gregory
Published: October 2019

Background: During exercise there is a proportionally lower rise in systemic and pulmonary pressures compared to cardiac output due to reduced vascular resistance. Invasive exercise data suggest that systemic vascular resistance reduces more than pulmonary vascular resistance. The aim of this study was the non-invasive assessment of exercise hemodynamics in ironman athletes, compared with an age matched control group and a larger general community cohort. Methods: 20 ironman athletes (40 ± 11 years, 17 male) were compared with 20 age matched non-athlete controls (43 ± 7 years, 10 male) and a general community cohort of 230 non-athletes individuals (66 ± 11 years, 155 male), at rest and after maximal-symptom limited treadmill exercise stress echocardiography. Left heart parameters (mitral E-wave, e’-wave and E/e’) and right heart parameters (tricuspid regurgitation maximum velocity and right ventricular systolic pressure), were used to calculate the echocardiographic Pulmonary to Left Atrial Ratio (ePLAR) value of the three groups. Results: Athletes exercised for 12.2 ± 0.53 min, age matched controls for 10.1 ± 2.8 min and general community cohort for 8.3 ± 2.6 min. Mitral E/e’ rose slightly for athletes (0.9 ± 1.8), age matched controls (0.6 ± 3.0) and non-athletes (0.4 ± 3.2). Right ventricular systolic pressure increased significantly more in athletes than in both non-athlete cohorts (35.6 ± 17 mmHg vs. 20.4 ± 10.8 mmHg and 18 ± 9.6 mmHg). The marker of trans-pulmonary gradient, ePLAR, rose significantly more in athletes than in both non-athlete groups (0.15 ± 0.1 m/s vs. 0.07 ± 0.1 m/s). Conclusions: Pulmonary pressures increased proportionally four-fold compared with systemic pressures in ironman athletes. This increase in pulmonary vascular resistance corresponded with a two-fold increase in ePLAR. These changes were exaggerated compared with both non-ironman cohorts. Such changes have been previously suggested to lead to right ventricle dysfunction, arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.
Differential Access: Asymmetries in Accessing Features and Building Representations in Heritage Language Grammars
Authors: Perez-Cortes Silvia , Putnam Michael T. , Sánchez Liliana
Published: October 2019

In this article, we propose that elements of heritage language grammars—both in the form of axiomatic features and larger combined representational units—are not easily lost over the course of the lifespan. This view contrasts with alternative explanations for the steady-state representation of these grammars that suggest truncated acquisition or erosion are the primary culprits of perceived language loss. In production and comprehension processes for heritage bilinguals, particular elements are more difficult to access than others, leading to differential ways to access representations and feature values. To illustrate and support this hypothesis, we build on previous work by examining the interpretation and use of obligatory mood selection in Spanish desiderative constructions in three groups of heritage speakers with different levels of language proficiency.
Laser Treatment as Sintering Process for Dispenser Printed Bismuth Telluride Based Paste
Authors: Greifzu Moritz , Tkachov Roman , Stepien Lukas , López Elena , Brückner Frank , Leyens Christoph
Published: October 2019

Laser sintering as a thermal post treatment method for dispenser printed p- and n-type bismuth telluride based thermoelectric paste materials was investigated. A high-power fiber laser (600 W, 1064 nm) was used in combination with a scanning system to achieve high processing speed. A Design of Experiment (DoE) approach was used to identify the most relevant processing parameters. Printed layers were laser treated with different process parameters and the achieved sheet resistance, electrical conductivity, and Seebeck coefficient are compared to tube furnace processed reference specimen. For p-type material, electrical conductivity of 22 S/cm was achieved, compared to 15 S/cm in tube furnace process. For n-type material, conductivity achieved by laser process was much lower (7 S/cm) compared to 88 S/cm in furnace process. Also, Seebeck coefficient decreases during laser processing (40–70 µV/K and −110 µV/K) compared to the oven process (251 µV/K and −142 µV/K) for p- and n-type material. DoE did not yet deliver a set of optimum processing parameters, but supports doubts about the applicability of area specific laser energy density as a single parameter to optimize laser sintering process.
Biological Effects of the Azaspiracid-Producing Dinoflagellate Azadinium dexteroporum in Mytilus galloprovincialis from the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Giuliani Maria Elisa , Accoroni Stefano , Mezzelani Marica , Lugarini Francesca , Bacchiocchi Simone , Siracusa Melania , Tavoloni Tamara , Piersanti Arianna , Totti Cecilia , Regoli Francesco , Rossi Rachele , Zingone Adriana , Gorbi Stefania
Published: October 2019

Azaspiracids (AZAs) are marine biotoxins including a variety of analogues. Recently, novel AZAs produced by the Mediterranean dinoflagellate Azadinium dexteroporum were discovered (AZA-54, AZA-55, 3-epi-AZA-7, AZA-56, AZA-57 and AZA-58) and their biological effects have not been investigated yet. This study aimed to identify the biological responses (biomarkers) induced in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis after the bioaccumulation of AZAs from A. dexteroporum. Organisms were fed with A. dexteroporum for 21 days and subsequently subjected to a recovery period (normal diet) of 21 days. Exposed organisms accumulated AZA-54, 3-epi-AZA-7 and AZA-55, predominantly in the digestive gland. Mussels’ haemocytes showed inhibition of phagocytosis activity, modulation of the composition of haemocytic subpopulation and damage to lysosomal membranes; the digestive tissue displayed thinned tubule walls, consumption of storage lipids and accumulation of lipofuscin. Slight genotoxic damage was also observed. No clear occurrence of oxidative stress and alteration of nervous activity was detected in AZA-accumulating mussels. Most of the altered parameters returned to control levels after the recovery phase. The toxic effects detected in M. galloprovincialis demonstrate a clear biological impact of the AZAs produced by A. dexteroporum, and could be used as early indicators of contamination associated with the ingestion of seafood.
Aluminum Alloy Sheet-Forming Limit Curve Prediction Based on Original Measured Stress–Strain Data and Its Application in Stretch-Forming Process
Authors: Sun Lirong , Cai Zhongyi , He Dongye , Li Li
Published: October 2019

A new method, by directly utilizing original measured data (OMD) of the stress–strain relation in the Marciniak–Kuczynski (M–K) model, was proposed to predict the forming limit curve (FLC) of an aluminum alloy sheet. In the groove zone of the M–K model, by establishing the relations of the equivalent strain increment, the ratio of shear stress to the first principle stress and the ratio of the second principle stress to the first principle stress, the iterative formula was established and solved. The equations of theoretical forming limits were derived in detail by using the OMD of the stress–strain relation. The stretching specimens of aluminum alloy 6016-T4 were tested and the true stress–strain curve of the material was obtained. Based on the numerical simulations of punch-stretch tests, the optimized specimens’ shape and test scheme were determined, and the tests for FLC were carried out. The FLC predicted by the proposed method was more consistent with the experimental results of FLC by comparing the theoretical FLCs based on OMD of the stress–strain relation and of that based on traditional power function. In addition, the influences of anisotropic parameter and groove angle on FLCs were analyzed. Finally, the FLC calculated by the proposed method was applied to analyze sheet formability in the stretch-forming process, and the predicted results of FLC were verified by numerical simulations and experiments. The fracture tendency of the formed parts can be visualized in the forming limit diagram (FLD), which has certain guiding significance for fracture judgment in the sheet-forming process.
A Review of Boron-Bearing Minerals (Excluding Tourmaline) in the Adirondack Region of New York State
Authors: Bailey David G. , Lupulescu Marian V. , Darling Robert S. , Singer Jared W. , Chamberlain Steven C.
Published: October 2019

Boron is a biologically important element, but its distribution in the natural environment and its behavior during many geological processes is not fully understood. In most metamorphic and igneous environments, boron is incorporated into minerals of the tourmaline supergroup. In high-grade metamorphic terranes like that of the Adirondack region of northern New York State, uncommon rock compositions combined with unusual and variable geologic conditions resulted in the formation of many additional boron-bearing minerals. This paper reviews the occurrences and geological settings of twelve relatively uncommon boron-bearing minerals in the southern Grenville Province of upstate New York and provides new chemical and Raman spectral data for seven of these minerals. The boron minerals range from relatively simple metal borates (e.g., vonsenite), to chemically complex borosilicates (e.g., prismatine), to a relatively rare borosilicate-carbonate (e.g., harkerite). Some are of primary igneous origin, while others are formed by a variety of prograde and retrograde metamorphic processes or by metasomatic/hydrothermal processes. Most of the boron minerals are formed within, or adjacent to, metasedimentary lithologies that surround the anorthositic massifs of the central Adirondacks. The metasedimentary rocks are thought to be the source of most of the boron, although additional boron isotope studies are needed to confirm this and to constrain the mechanisms of the formation of these unusual minerals.
Toxicity Reduction of Euphorbia kansui Stir-Fried with Vinegar Based on Conversion of 3-O-(2′E,4′Z-Decadi-enoyl)-20-O-acetylingenol
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Zhang Yi , Zhou Shi-Kang , Wang Kan , Zhang Min , Chen Pei-Dong , Yao Wei-Feng , Tang Yu-Ping , Wu Jian-Hua , Zhang Li
Published: October 2019

The dried roots of Euphorbia kansui S.L.Liou ex S.B.Ho have long been used to treat edema in China. However, the severe toxicity caused by Euphorbia kansui (EK) has seriously restricted its clinical application. Although EK was processed with vinegar to reduce its toxicity, the detailed mechanisms of attenuation in toxicity of EK stir-fried with vinegar (VEK) have not been well delineated. Diterpenoids are the main toxic ingredients of EK, and changes in these after processing may be the underlying mechanism of toxicity attenuation of VEK. 3-O-(2′E,4′Z-decadienoyl)-20-O-acetylingenol (3-O-EZ) is one of the diterpenoids derived from EK, and the content of 3-O-EZ was significantly reduced after processing. This study aims to explore the underlying mechanisms of toxicity reduction of VEK based on the change of 3-O-EZ after processing with vinegar. Based on the chemical structure of 3-O-EZ and the method of processing with vinegar, simulation experiments were carried out to confirm the presence of the product both in EK and VEK and to enrich the product. Then, the difference of peak area of 3-O-EZ and its hydrolysate in EK and VEK were detected by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Furthermore, the toxicity effect of 3-O-EZ and its hydrolysate, as well as the underlying mechanism, on zebrafish embryos were investigated. The findings showed that the diterpenoids (3-O-EZ) in EK can convert into less toxic ingenol in VEK after processing with vinegar; meanwhile, the content of ingenol in VEK was higher than that of EK. More interestingly, the ingenol exhibited less toxicity (acute toxicity, developmental toxicity and organic toxicity) than that of 3-O-EZ, and 3-O-EZ could increase malondialdehyde (MDA) content and reduce glutathione (GSH) content; cause embryo oxidative damage by inhibition of the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity; and induce inflammation and apoptosis by elevation of IL-2 and IL-8 contents and activation of the caspase-3 and caspase-9 activity. Thus, this study contributes to our understanding of the mechanism of attenuation in toxicity of VEK, and provides the possibility of safe and rational use of EK in clinics.
Mesoporous Tungsten Trioxide Photoanodes Modified with Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots for Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Photo-Reaction
Authors: Amer Mabrook S. , Arunachalam Prabhakarn , Al-Mayouf Abdullah M. , Prasad Saradh , Alshalwi Matar N. , Ghanem Mohamed A.
Published: October 2019

Nanostructured photoanodes are attractive materials for hydrogen production via water photo-electrolysis process. This study focused on the incorporation of carbon quantum dots doped with nitrogen as a photosensitizer into mesoporous tungsten trioxide photoanodes (N-CQD/meso-WO3) using a surfactant self-assembly template approach. The crystal structure, composition, and morphology of pure and N-CQD- modified mesoporous WO3 photoanodes were investigated using scanning electron and transmission microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Due to their high surface area, enhanced optical absorption, and charge-carrier separation and transfer, the resulting N-CQD/meso-WO3 photoanodes exhibited a significantly enhanced photocurrent density of 1.45 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE under AM 1.5 G illumination in 0.5 M Na2SO4 without any co-catalysts or sacrificial reagent, which was about 2.23 times greater than its corresponding pure meso-WO3. Moreover, the oxygen evolution onset potential of the N-CQD/meso-WO3 photoanodes exhibited a negative shift of 95 mV, signifying that both the charge-carrier separation and transfer processes were promoted.
Synthesis of Green Recyclable Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanomaterials Coated by Hydrophobic Plant Extracts for Efficient Collection of Oil Spills
Authors: Abdullah Mahmood M. S. , Atta Ayman M. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Alkhathlan Hamad Z. , Khan Merajuddin. , Ezzat Abdelrahman O.
Published: October 2019

A facile method for synthesis of environmentally friendly magnetite nanomaterials (MNMs) was applied using hydrophobic biocomponents as capping and stabilizing agents. The biocomponents were extracted from Matricaria aurea (MAE) and Ochradenus baccatus (OBE) and used for the surface modification of MNMs to increase their dispersion efficiency on the collection of heavy crude oil spills. Synthesized MNM samples (MAE-MNMs and OBE-MNMs) were verified using thermogravimetric analysis; Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy; transmission electron microscopy; dynamic light scattering, and vibrating-sample magnetometry. The application of these nanomaterials in the collection of oil spill showed that the MAE-MNMs and OBE-MNMs successfully collected 95% and 91% of the oil spill, respectively. These results support the potential use of these materials as eco-friendly composites for the successful collection of oil spills that might occur during offshore operations.
Plasma Kinetics of Choline and Choline Metabolites After A Single Dose of SuperbaBoostTM Krill Oil or Choline Bitartrate in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Mödinger Yvonne , Schön Christiane , Wilhelm Manfred , Hals Petter-Arnt
Published: October 2019

As an essential nutrient, the organic water-soluble compound choline is important for human health. Choline is required for numerous biological processes, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters, and it is an important prerequisite for structural integrity and the functioning of cells. A choline-rich diet provides crucial choline sources, yet additional choline dietary supplements might be needed to fully meet the body’s requirements. Dependent on the structure of choline in different sources, absorption and metabolism may differ and strongly impact the bioavailability of circulating choline. This study in healthy volunteers aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics of free choline and of selected choline metabolites between the single dose intake of phosphatidylcholine, present in SuperbaBoostTM krill oil, and choline bitartrate salt. Results demonstrate that albeit free choline levels in plasma were comparable between both choline sources, peak choline concentration was reached significantly later upon intake of SuperbaBoostTM. Moreover, the occurrence of choline metabolites differed between the study products. Levels of the biologically important metabolites betaine and dimethylglycine (DMG) were higher, while levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) were substantially lower upon intake of SuperbaBoostTM compared to choline bitartrate.
Characteristics and Glucose Uptake Promoting Effect of Chrysin-Loaded Phytosomes Prepared with Different Phospholipid Matrices
Authors: Kim Seong-Min , Jung Jae-In , Chai Changhoon , Imm Jee-Young
Published: October 2019

Chrysin-loaded phytosomes (CP) were prepared using either soya phosphatidylcholine (SPC) or egg phospholipid (EPL) by the solvent evaporation method. Different phospholipid matrices resulted in significant differences in size, mechanical property and solubility of the CP. The most stable CP was obtained with EPL at a molar ratio of 1:3 (chrysin: EPL, CEP-1:3). CEP-1:3 displayed an average size of 117 nm with uniform size distribution (polydispersity index: 0.30) and zeta potential of −31 mV. A significantly greater elastic modulus of CEP-1:3 (2.7-fold) indicated tighter packing and strong molecular bonding than those of CP prepared with SPC (CSP-1:3). X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of CEP-1:3 confirmed molecular complexation. CEP-1:3 displayed a greater glucose uptake promoting effect than free chrysin and CSP-1:3 in muscle cells by stimulating gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and glucose transporter type 4. The results of the present study suggest that the phospholipid matrix used for the preparation of phytosomes critically influences their performance.
Strategies for Delivery of siRNAs to Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Farra Rossella , Maruna Matea , Perrone Francesca , Grassi Mario , Benedetti Fabio , Maddaloni Marianna , El Boustani Maguie , Parisi Salvo , Rizzolio Flavio , Forte Giancarlo , Zanconati Fabrizio , Cemazar Maja , Kamensek Urska , Dapas Barbara , Grassi Gabriele
Published: October 2019

The unmet need for novel therapeutic options for ovarian cancer (OC) deserves further investigation. Among the different novel drugs, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are particularly attractive because of their specificity of action and efficacy, as documented in many experimental setups. However, the fragility of these molecules in the biological environment necessitates the use of delivery materials able to protect them and possibly target them to the cancer cells. Among the different delivery materials, those based on polymers and lipids are considered very interesting because of their biocompatibility and ability to carry/deliver siRNAs. Despite these features, polymers and lipids need to be engineered to optimize their delivery properties for OC. In this review, we concentrated on the description of the therapeutic potential of siRNAs and polymer-/lipid-based delivery systems for OC. After a brief description of OC and siRNA features, we summarized the strategies employed to minimize siRNA delivery problems, the targeting strategies to OC, and the preclinical models available. Finally, we discussed the most interesting works published in the last three years about polymer-/lipid-based materials for siRNA delivery.
Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere by the Ultraviolet Detector TUS Onboard the Lomonosov Satellite
Authors: Klimov Pavel , Khrenov Boris , Kaznacheeva Margarita , Garipov Gali , Panasyuk Mikhail , Petrov Vasily , Sharakin Sergei , Shirokov Andrei , Yashin Ivan , Zotov Mikhail , Grebenyuk Viktor , Grinyuk Andrei , Lavrova Maria , Tkachenko Artur , Tkachev Leonid , Botvinko Alla , Saprykin Oleg , Puchkov Andrei , Senkovsky Alexander
Published: October 2019

The orbital detector TUS (Tracking Ultraviolet Setup) with high sensitivity in near-visible ultraviolet (tens of photons per time sample of 0.8 μ s of wavelengths 300–400 nm from a detector’s pixel field of view) and the microsecond-scale temporal resolution was developed by the Lomonosov-UHECR/TLE collaboration and launched into orbit on 28 April 2016. A variety of different phenomena were studied by measuring ultraviolet signals from the atmosphere: extensive air showers from ultra-high-energy cosmic rays, lightning discharges, transient atmospheric events, aurora ovals, and meteors. These events are different in their origin and in their duration and luminosity. The TUS detector had a capability to conduct measurements with different temporal resolutions (0.8 μ s, 25.6 μ s, 0.4 ms, and 6.6 ms) but the same spatial resolution of 5 km. Results of the TUS detector measurements of various atmospheric emissions are discussed and compared to data from previous experiments.
Impact of Urbanization and Climate on Vegetation Coverage in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region of China
Authors: Zhou Qian , Zhao Xiang , Wu Donghai , Tang Rongyun , Du Xiaozheng , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Jiacheng , Xu Peipei , Peng Yifeng
Published: October 2019

Worldwide urbanization leads to ecological changes around urban areas. However, few studies have quantitatively investigated the impacts of urbanization on vegetation coverage so far. As an important indicator measuring regional environment change, fractional vegetation cover (FVC) is widely used to analyze changes in vegetation in urban areas. In this study, on the basis of a partial derivative model, we quantified the effect of temperature, precipitation, radiation, and urbanization represented as nighttime light on vegetation coverage changes in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) region during its period of rapid resident population growth from 2001 to 2011. The results showed that (1) the FVC of the BTH region varied from 0.20 to 0.26, with significant spatial heterogeneity. The FVC increased in small cities such as Cangzhou and in the Taihang Mountains, while it decreased in megacities with populations greater than 1 million, such as Beijing and Zhangjiakou Bashang. (2) The BTH region experienced rapid urbanization, with the area of artificial surface increasing by 18.42%. From the urban core area to the fringe area, the urbanization intensity decreased, but the urbanization rate increased. (3) Urbanization and precipitation had the greatest effect on FVC changes. Urbanization dominated the FVC changes in the expanded area, while precipitation had the greatest impacts on the FVC changes in the core area. For future studies on the major influencing factors of FVC changes, quantitative analysis of the contribution of urbanization to FVC changes in urban regions is crucial and will provide scientific perspectives for sustainable urban planning.
Wetland Classification Based on a New Efficient Generative Adversarial Network and Jilin-1 Satellite Image
Authors: He Zhi , He Dan , Mei Xiangqin , Hu Saihan
Published: October 2019

Recent studies have shown that deep learning methods provide useful tools for wetland classification. However, it is difficult to perform species-level classification with limited labeled samples. In this paper, we propose a semi-supervised method for wetland species classification by using a new efficient generative adversarial network (GAN) and Jilin-1 satellite image. The main contributions of this paper are twofold. First, the proposed method, namely ShuffleGAN, requires only a small number of labeled samples. ShuffleGAN is composed of two neural networks (i.e., generator and discriminator), which perform an adversarial game in the training phase and ShuffleNet units are added in both generator and discriminator to obtain speed-accuracy tradeoff. Second, ShuffleGAN can perform species-level wetland classification. In addition to distinguishing the wetland areas from non-wetlands, different tree species located in the wetland are also identified, thus providing a more detailed distribution of the wetland land-covers. Experiments are conducted on the Haizhu Lake wetland data acquired by the Jilin-1 satellite. Compared with existing GAN, the improvement in overall accuracy (OA) of the proposed ShuffleGAN is more than 2%. This work can not only deepen the application of deep learning in wetland classification but also promote the study of fine classification of wetland land-covers.