bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Non-Linear Flow Model for Porous Media Based on Conformable Derivative Approach
Authors: Lei Gang , Cao Nai , Liu Di , Wang Huijie
Published: November 2018

Prediction of the non-linear flow in porous media is still a major scientific and engineering challenge, despite major technological advances in both theoretical and computational thermodynamics in the past two decades. Specifically, essential controls on non-linear flow in porous media are not yet definitive. The principal aim of this paper is to develop a meaningful and reasonable quantitative model that manifests the most important fundamental controls on low velocity non-linear flow. By coupling a new derivative with fractional order, referred to conformable derivative, Swartzendruber equation and modified Hertzian contact theory as well as fractal geometry theory, a flow velocity model for porous media is proposed to improve the modeling of Non-linear flow in porous media. Predictions using the proposed model agree well with available experimental data. Salient results presented here include (1) the flow velocity decreases as effective stress increases; (2) rock types of “softer” mechanical properties may exhibit lower flow velocity; (3) flow velocity increases with the rougher pore surfaces and rock elastic modulus. In general, the proposed model illustrates mechanisms that affect non-linear flow behavior in porous media.
Fuzzy Supervision Based-Pitch Angle Control of a Tidal Stream Generator for a Disturbed Tidal Input
Authors: Ghefiri Khaoula , Garrido Aitor J. , Rusu Eugen , Bouallègue Soufiene , Haggège Joseph , Garrido Izaskun
Published: November 2018

Energy originating in tidal and ocean currents appears to be more intense and predictable than other renewables. In this area of research, the Tidal Stream Generator (TSG) power plant is one of the most recent forms of renewable energy to be developed. The main feature of this energy converter is related to the input resource which is the tidal current speed. Since its behaviour is variable and with disturbances, these systems must be able to maintain performance despite the input variations. This article deals with the design and control of a tidal stream converter system. The Fuzzy Gain Scheduling (FGS) technique is used to control the blade pitch angle of the turbine, in order to protect the plant in the case of a strong tidal range. Rotational speed control is investigated by means of the back-to-back power converters. The optimal speed is provided using the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) strategy to harness maximum power from the tidal speed. To verify the robustness of the developed methods, two scenarios of a disturbed tidal resource with regular and irregular conditions are considered. The performed results prove the output power optimization and adaptive change of the pitch angle control to maintain the plant within the tolerable limits.
A Review of the Transient Process and Control for a Hydropower Station with a Super Long Headrace Tunnel
Authors: Guo Wencheng , Zhu Daoyi
Published: November 2018

The hydropower station with a super long headrace tunnel is a significant development type for hydropower energy. By constructing a super long headrace tunnel, the huge natural water fall head can be utilized to generate more electricity. With the development of hydropower energy, a hydropower station with a super long headrace tunnel becomes more and more competitive. Compared with a hydropower station with a short headrace tunnel, the transient process and control for a hydropower station with a super long headrace tunnel is much more complicated and becomes an intractable challenge. It is well known that the transient process and control is the basis of the design and operation of a hydropower station. To overcome the challenge of the transient process and control, much research has been carried out. This paper provides a systematic review on the latest research progress of the transient process and control for hydropower stations with a super long headrace tunnel. Firstly, two key issues for the transient process and control, i.e., hydraulic design optimization of the surge tank and operation control of unit, are illuminated. Secondly, for both single surge tanks and surge tanks with special types or combinations, the hydraulic design optimization methods are described. The most disadvantageous design and advantageous operation of surge tanks under combined operating conditions are discussed. Thirdly, the stability and regulation quality of the hydro-turbine governing system under isolated and grid-connected operation conditions are presented. Finally, some trends and recommendations for future research directions are made. A research thought for establishing the complete theory and application system of the transient process and control for hydropower stations with a super long headrace tunnel from the perspective of multi-slice and multi-scale is proposed.
Optimizing Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oil Using Genetic Algorithm-Based Support Vector Machines
Authors: Corral Bobadilla Marina , Fernández Martínez Roberto , Lostado Lorza Rubén , Somovilla Gómez Fátima , Vergara González Eliseo P.
Published: November 2018

The ever increasing fuel demands and the limitations of oil reserves have motivated research of renewable and sustainable energy resources to replace, even partially, fossil fuels, which are having a serious environmental impact on global warming and climate change, excessive greenhouse emissions and deforestation. For this reason, an alternative, renewable and biodegradable combustible like biodiesel is necessary. For this purpose, waste cooking oil is a potential replacement for vegetable oils in the production of biodiesel. Direct transesterification of vegetable oils was undertaken to synthesize the biodiesel. Several variables controlled the process. The alkaline catalyst that is used, typically sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH), increases the solubility and speeds up the reaction. Therefore, the methodology that this study suggests for improving the biodiesel production is based on computing techniques for prediction and optimization of these process dimensions. The method builds and selects a group of regression models that predict several properties of biodiesel samples (viscosity turbidity, density, high heating value and yield) based on various attributes of the transesterification process (dosage of catalyst, molar ratio, mixing speed, mixing time, temperature, humidity and impurities). In order to develop it, a Box-Behnken type of Design of Experiment (DoE) was designed that considered the variables that were previously mentioned. Then, using this DoE, biodiesel production features were decided by conducting lab experiments to complete a dataset with real production properties. Subsequently, using this dataset, a group of regression models—linear regression and support vector machines (using linear kernel, polynomial kernel and radial basic function kernel)—were constructed to predict the studied properties of biodiesel and to obtain a better understanding of the process. Finally, several biodiesel optimization scenarios were reached through the application of genetic algorithms to the regression models obtained with greater precision. In this way, it was possible to identify the best combinations of variables, both independent and dependent. These scenarios were based mainly on a desire to improve the biodiesel yield by obtaining a higher heating value, while decreasing the viscosity, density and turbidity. These conditions were achieved when the dosage of catalyst was approximately 1 wt %.
Emerging Membrane Technologies for Water and Energy Sustainability: Future Prospects, Constraints and Challenges
Authors: Roy Sagar , Ragunath Smruti
Published: November 2018

The increasing demand for global energy consumption expedites major opportunities for the innovation of green energy technologies. Addressing the issue of sustainable energy is highly crucial for societies in order to maintain secure and balanced future progress in the economy and ecologically. Recently, there has been a growing interest in the development of improved and efficient sustainable energy technologies that are capable of reducing the global environmental footprint. The growing knowledge of hybrid techniques contributes to a decrease in the use of environmental resources while generating energy. However, various factors including the availability of natural resources, and different economic policies restrict the development of sustainable energies. Water and energy are the two major aspects for progressing towards a sustainable future. Recently, membrane-based technologies have begun to play an essential role in the advancement of sustainable energy and water demands. In this review article, the opportunities for membrane technologies dealing with water and energy sustainability have been analyzed.
Multiphysics Modeling for Detailed Analysis of Multi-Layer Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells
Authors: Lin Nan , Röder Fridolin , Krewer Ulrike
Published: November 2018

Multiphysics modeling permits a detailed investigation of complex physical interactions and heterogeneous performance in multiple electro-active layers of a large-format Li-ion cell. For this purpose, a novel 3D multiphysics model with high computational efficiency was developed to investigate detailed multiphysics heterogeneity in different layers of a large-format pouch cell at various discharge rates. This model has spatial distribution and temporal evolution of local electric current density, solid lithium concentration and temperature distributions in different electro-active layers, based on a real pouch cell geometry. Other than previous models, we resolve the discharge processes at various discharge C-rates, analyzing internal inhomogeneity based on multiple electro-active layers of a large-format pouch cell. The results reveal that the strong inhomogeneity in multiple layers at a high C-rate is caused by the large heat generation and poor heat dissipation in the direction through the cell thickness. The thermal inhomogeneity also strongly interacts with the local electrochemical and electric performance in the investigated cell.
Power Stabilization Based on Asymmetric Transceiver in Dynamic Wireless Charging System with Short-Segmented Transmitting Coils for Inspection Robots
Authors: Liu Han , Tan Linlin , Huang Xueliang , Czarkowski Dariusz
Published: November 2018

To solve the issues of frequent and inflexible contact charging system for inspection robots, the dynamic wireless charging system for the moving robot is introduced in this paper. In dynamic wireless charging systems with symmetric transceiver, including a single energized transmitting coil and one receiving coil, the receiving power drops significantly when the receiving coil moves to the boundary position of the energized transmitting coil. An asymmetric transceiver, including the single energized transmitting coil and two identical receiving coils connected in series is proposed for power stabilization during the moving process of the inspection robot. Circuit models of the systems with symmetric and asymmetric transceivers are developed. Expressions for the receiving power and the efficiency in these systems are derived. Then, the characteristics of the receiving power and efficiency varying with the position of receiving devices during one cycle of the switching control of the transmitting coils are investigated comparatively. The receiving power drop issue when the receiving coil is at the switching control position of the transmitting coils in the system with symmetric structure is solved by the proposed asymmetric structure with two receiving coils. Finally, the theoretical analyses are verified by experimental results and conclusions are drawn.
Extreme Learning Machines as Encoders for Sparse Reconstruction
Authors: Al Mamun S M Abdullah , Lu Chen , Jayaraman Balaji
Published: November 2018

Reconstruction of fine-scale information from sparse data is often needed in practical fluid dynamics where the sensors are typically sparse and yet, one may need to learn the underlying flow structures or inform predictions through assimilation into data-driven models. Given that sparse reconstruction is inherently an ill-posed problem, the most successful approaches encode the physics into an underlying sparse basis space that spans the manifold to generate well-posedness. To achieve this, one commonly uses a generic orthogonal Fourier basis or a data specific proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) basis to reconstruct from sparse sensor information at chosen locations. Such a reconstruction problem is well-posed as long as the sensor locations are incoherent and can sample the key physical mechanisms. The resulting inverse problem is easily solved using l 2 minimization or if necessary, sparsity promoting l 1 minimization. Given the proliferation of machine learning and the need for robust reconstruction frameworks in the face of dynamically evolving flows, we explore in this study the suitability of non-orthogonal basis obtained from extreme learning machine (ELM) auto-encoders for sparse reconstruction. In particular, we assess the interplay between sensor quantity and sensor placement in a given system dimension for accurate reconstruction of canonical fluid flows in comparison to POD-based reconstruction.
Effects of Relatedness on the Evolution of Cooperation in Nonlinear Public Goods Games
Authors: Coder Gylling Kira , Brännström Åke
Published: November 2018

Evolution of cooperation has traditionally been studied by assuming that individuals adopt either of two pure strategies, to cooperate or defect. Recent work has considered continuous cooperative investments, turning full cooperation and full defection into two opposing ends of a spectrum and sometimes allowing for the emergence of the traditionally-studied pure strategies through evolutionary diversification. These studies have typically assumed a well-mixed population in which individuals are encountered with equal probability. Here, we allow for the possibility of assortative interactions by assuming that, with specified probabilities, an individual interacts with one or more other individuals of the same strategy. A closely related assumption has previously been made in evolutionary game theory and has been interpreted in terms of relatedness. We systematically study the effect of relatedness and find, among other conclusions, that the scope for evolutionary branching is reduced by either higher average degree of, or higher uncertainty in, relatedness with interaction partners. We also determine how different types of non-linear dependencies of benefits and costs constrain the types of evolutionary outcomes that can occur. While our results overall corroborate the conclusions of earlier studies, i.e. higher relatedness promotes the evolution of cooperation, our investigation gives a comprehensive picture of how relatedness affects the evolution of cooperation with continuous investments.
Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Health Beliefs toward Leptospirosis among Urban and Rural Communities in Northeastern Malaysia
Authors: A Pathman , BD Aziah , WM Zahiruddin , S Mohd , S Sukeri , TJ Tengku , RA Hamat , O Malina , I Norazlin , I Zawaha , AW Zainudin
Published: November 2018

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease with a worldwide distribution, especially in developing countries such as Malaysia. This study was designed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices (KABP) toward leptospirosis among the communities in northeastern Malaysia and to determine the sociodemographic factors associated with the KABP toward leptospirosis. A cross-sectional study using a stratified sampling method was conducted among 214 individuals in four locales in northeastern Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 214 respondents in northeastern Malaysia using a multi-stage stratified random sampling method. The study population was divided into two groups based on geographical locations: urban and rural. All data were entered and analyzed using the IBM Statistics for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 software for Windows (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). The continuous variables were presented using mean and standard deviation (SD), whereas the categorical variables were described using frequency and percentage. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine the associated factors for good KABP toward leptospirosis among the respondents. Results: It was found that 52.8% of respondents had good knowledge, 84.6% had positive attitudes, 59.8% had positive beliefs, and 53.7% had satisfactory practices. There were no significant sociodemographic factors associated with knowledge and practice, except for educational status, which was significant in the attitude and belief domains. Those with higher education exhibited better attitudes (Odds Ratio (OR) 3.329; 95% Coefficient Interval (CI): 1.140, 9.723; p = 0.028) and beliefs (OR 3.748; 95% CI: 1.485, 9.459; p = 0.005). The communities in northeastern Malaysia generally have good knowledge and a high level of positive attitude; however, this attitude cannot be transformed into practice as the number of people with satisfactory practice habits is much lower compared to those with positive attitudes. As for the belief domain, the communities must have positive beliefs to perceive the threat of the disease. Conclusions: Our current health program on preventing leptospirosis is good in creating awareness and a positive attitude among the communities, but is not sufficient in promoting satisfactory practice habits. In conclusion, more attention needs to be paid to promoting satisfactory practice habits among the communities, as they already possess good knowledge and positive attitudes and beliefs.
Biological Age Is Associated with the Active Use of Nutrition Data
Authors: Han Kyu-Tae , Kim Dong Wook , Kim Seung Ju , Kim Sun Jung
Published: November 2018

Purpose Biological age (BA) has recently emerged as a substitute for chronological age (CA), and many subjects seek to optimally control their BA. However, in South Korea, no study has adequately explored factors that affect BA, although individual health management is essential to preventing chronic diseases. In the present study, we focus on the use of health information, in particular nutrition facts, to control BA. Methods We used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2010–2015; 26,914 eligible participants) using BA and age differences as outcome variables. We used multiple linear regression to explore the relationship between the use of nutrition data and differences in BA after adjusting for covariates. In addition, we used multiple linear regression to examine subgroup differences in such relationships. Results 12.8% of males and 27.5% of females used nutrition facts when deciding which foods to purchase. The more attention paid to such facts, the lower the BA and BA differences in both males and females (males: β = −2.646, females: β = −2.787, p < 0.05, for BA; males: β = −1.181, females, β = −2.161, p < 0.05, for BA differences). However, BA differences were more significant in subjects with chronic disease, obesity, and/or a family history of chronic disease. Conclusion High-level awareness of and active use of nutrition facts permitted effective self-management in preventing chronic disease and improving BA, particularly in subjects at higher risk for chronic disease. Thus, considering nutrition facts when deciding what to purchase is important.
Perceptions of Heart-Healthy Behaviors among African American Adults: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Der Ananian Cheryl , Winham Donna M. , Thompson Sharon V. , Tisue Megan E.
Published: November 2018

African Americans have a disproportionately higher risk of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, and hypertension than other ethnic or racial groups. Data regarding CVD-related perceptions and beliefs among African Americans are limited, particularly in the Southwest US. Assessment of current views regarding health and health behaviors is needed to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of specific populations. We sought to examine knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of African Americans living in Arizona toward CVD and etiological factors associated with health behaviors and chronic disease development to inform state health agency program development. Transcripts from 14 focus groups (n = 103) were analyzed using Grounded Theory for perceived disease risk, knowledge of CVD risk factors, nutrition, preventative behaviors, and barriers and motivators to behavior change. Participants identified CVD, stroke, and diabetes as leading health concerns among African-Americans but were less certain about the physiological consequences of these diseases. Diet, stress, low physical activity, family history, hypertension, and stroke were described as key CVD risk factors, but overweight and obesity were mentioned rarely. Participants described low socio-economic status and limited access to healthy foods as contributors to disease risk. Focus group members were open to modifying health behaviors if changes incorporated their input and were culturally acceptable. Respondents were 41% male and 59% female with a mean age of 46 years. This study provides insight into CVD and associated disease-related perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes among African Americans in the Southwest and recommendations for interventions to reduce CVD risk.
Investigation of the Inhibitory Effects of Mangrove Leaves and Analysis of Their Active Components on Phaeocystis globosa during Different Stages of Leaf Age
Authors: Zhao Min , Xiao Han , Sun Dong , Duan Shunshan
Published: November 2018

The presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) can cause significant problems to the quality of the water, the marine ecosystems, and the human health, and economy worldwide. Biological remediation can inhibit harmful algal growth efficiently in an environmental-friendly manner. Therefore, the research conducted on biological remediation with regard to the inhibition of HABs is becoming a major focus in marine ecology. To date, no study has been reported with regard to the red tides occurring in mangrove wetlands. Therefore, the present study used two mangrove species, namely Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Kandelia candel and one harmful algae species Phaeocystis globosa as experimental organisms. The present study determined the inhibitory effects and algae physiology of specific aqueous extracts from mangrove leaves on the viability of harmful algae, and analyzed the main chemical composition of the aqueous extracts by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The results indicated that the aqueous extracts from different leaf ages of B. gymnorrhiza and K. candel leaves exhibited apparent inhibitory effects on the growth of P. globosa. The inhibitory effects of B. gymnorrhiza and K. candel leaves aqueous extracts on the growth of P. globosa were in the following order: senescent > mature > young leaves. The levels of the parameters superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA)content in P. globosa following treatment with B. gymnorrhiza and K. candel leaves aqueous extracts were increased as follows: senescent > mature > young leaves. Simultaneously, the intensity of the ion peaks of the specific secondary metabolites assigned 4 (No.: 4 Rt: 2.83 min), 7 (No.: 7 Rt: 3.14 min), 8 (No.: 8 Rt: 3.24 min), 9 (No.: 9 Rt: 3.82min) and 10 (No.: 10 Rt: 4.10 min) were increased. These metabolites were found in the aqueous extracts from B. gymnorrhiza leaves. The intensities of the ion peaks of the secondary metabolites 7, 8 in the aqueous extracts from the K. candel leaves were also increased. The majority of the substances that inhibited the algae found in the mangrove plants were secondary metabolites. Therefore, we considered that the norsesquiterpenes compounds 4, 8, 9, and 10 and a phenolic glycoside compound 7 were the active constituents in the aqueous extracts of the mangrove leaves responsible for the inhibition of algae growth. This evidence provided theoretical guidance for the development of biological methods to control red tides and for the further use of substances with antiproliferative activity against algae.
Validation of Questionnaire Methods to Quantify Recreational Water Ingestion
Authors: Suppes Laura M. , Ernst Kacey C. , Abrell Leif , Reynolds Kelly A.
Published: November 2018

Swimming pool water ingestion volumes are necessary for assessing infection risk from swimming. Pool water ingestion volumes can be estimated by questionnaire or measuring a chemical tracer in swimmer urine. Questionnaires are often preferred to the chemical tracer method because surveys are less time consuming, but no research exists validating questionnaires accurately quantify pool water ingestion volumes. The objective of this study was to explore if questionnaires are a reliable tool for collecting pool water ingestion volumes. A questionnaire was issued at four pool sites in Tucson, Arizona to 46 swimmers who also submitted a urine sample for analyzing cyanuric acid, a chemical tracer. Perceived ingestion volumes reported on the questionnaire were compared with pool water ingestion volumes, quantified by analyzing cyanuric acid in swimmer urine. Swimmers were asked if they swallowed (1) no water or only a few drops, (2) one to two mouthfuls, (3) three to five mouthfuls, or (4) six to eight mouthfuls. One mouthful is the equivalent of 27 mL of water. The majority (81%) of swimmers ingested <27 mL of pool water but reported ingesting >27 mL (“one mouthful”) on the questionnaire. More than half (52%) of swimmers overestimated their ingestion volume. These findings suggest swimmers are over-estimating pool water ingestion because they perceive one mouthful is <27 mL. The questionnaire did not reliably collect pool water ingestion volumes and should be improved for future exposure assessment studies. Images of the ingestion volume categories should be included on the questionnaire to help swimmers visualize the response options.
Effect of a Job Demand-Control-Social Support Model on Accounting Professionals’ Health Perception
Authors: Del Pozo-Antúnez José Joaquín , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Fernández-Navarro Francisco , Molina-Sánchez Horacio
Published: November 2018

The Job Demand-Control and Job Demand-Control-Support (JDCS) models constitute the theoretical approaches used to analyze the relationship between the characteristics of labor and occupational health. Few studies have investigated the main effects and multiplicative model in relation to the perceived occupational health of professional accountants. Accountants are subject to various types of pressure in performing their work; this pressure influences their health and, ultimately, their ability to perform a job well. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of job demands on the occupational health of 739 accountants, as well as the role of the moderator that internal resources (locus of control) and external resources (social support) have in occupational health. The proposed hypotheses are tested by applying different models of neural networks using the algorithm of the Extreme Learning Machine. The results confirm the relationship between certain stress factors that affect the health of the accountants, as well as the direct effect that the recognition of superiors in occupational health has. Additionally, the results highlight the moderating effect of professional development and the support of superiors on the job’s demands.
The Epidemiology of Suicide in Young Men in Greenland: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sargeant Hannah , Forsyth Rebecca , Pitman Alexandra
Published: November 2018

Suicide is the leading cause of death among young men aged 15–29 in Greenland, but few epidemiological studies have described this problem. We aimed to summarise descriptive epidemiological studies of suicide in young men in Greenland compared with other demographic groups in Denmark and Greenland to inform future suicide prevention strategy. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and Embase using an agreed search strategy to identify English-language papers describing suicide epidemiology in Greenlandic men aged 15–29. We followed PRISMA guidelines in screening and appraising eligible publications. Eight articles fulfilled inclusion criteria of 64 meeting search criteria. Findings covering 1970–2011 supported a dramatic rise in suicide rates in Greenlandic men aged 15–24 from 1976, who remained the highest-ranking demographic group over 1976–2011 compared with men and women of all age groups in Denmark and Greenland. Highest rates recorded were almost 600 per 100,000 per year in men aged approximately 20–23 over 1977–1986. No studies described suicide epidemiology after 2011, and no studies described risk factors for suicide in young men. Given the very high suicide rates recorded for young men over 1976–2011, such studies will be essential for informing the development and evaluation of appropriate preventive interventions.
The Impact of Nutrition and Environmental Epigenetics on Human Health and Disease
Authors: Tiffon Céline
Published: November 2018

Environmental epigenetics describes how environmental factors affect cellular epigenetics and, hence, human health. Epigenetic marks alter the spatial conformation of chromatin to regulate gene expression. Environmental factors with epigenetic effects include behaviors, nutrition, and chemicals and industrial pollutants. Epigenetic mechanisms are also implicated during development in utero and at the cellular level, so environmental exposures may harm the fetus by impairing the epigenome of the developing organism to modify disease risk later in life. By contrast, bioactive food components may trigger protective epigenetic modifications throughout life, with early life nutrition being particularly important. Beyond their genetics, the overall health status of an individual may be regarded as an integration of many environmental signals starting at gestation and acting through epigenetic modifications. This review explores how the environment affects the epigenome in health and disease, with a particular focus on cancer. Understanding the molecular effects of behavior, nutrients, and pollutants might be relevant for developing preventative strategies and personalized heath programs. Furthermore, by restoring cellular differentiation, epigenetic drugs could represent a potential strategy for the treatment of many diseases including cancer.
Plasma Derived Exosomal Biomarkers of Exposure to Ionizing Radiation in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Cheema Amrita K. , Hinzman Charles P. , Mehta Khyati Y. , Hanlon Briana K. , Garcia Melissa , Fatanmi Oluseyi O. , Singh Vijay K.
Published: November 2018

Exposure to ionizing radiation induces a cascade of molecular events that ultimately impact endogenous metabolism. Qualitative and quantitative characterization of metabolomic profiles is a pragmatic approach to studying the risks of radiation exposure since it provides a phenotypic readout. Studies were conducted in irradiated nonhuman primates (NHP) to investigate metabolic changes in plasma and plasma-derived exosomes. Specifically, rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) were exposed to cobalt-60 gamma-radiation and plasma samples were collected prior to and after exposure to 5.8 Gy or 6.5 Gy radiation. Exosomes were isolated using ultracentrifugation and analyzed by untargeted profiling via ultra-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) based metabolomic and lipidomic analyses, with the goal of identifying a molecular signature of irradiation. The enrichment of an exosomal fraction was confirmed using quantitative ELISA. Plasma profiling showed markers of dyslipidemia, inflammation and oxidative stress post-irradiation. Exosomal profiling, on the other hand, enabled detection and identification of low abundance metabolites that comprise exosomal cargo which would otherwise get obscured with plasma profiling. We discovered enrichment of different classes of metabolites including N-acyl-amino acids, Fatty Acid ester of Hydroxyl Fatty Acids (FAHFA’s), glycolipids and triglycerides as compared to the plasma metabolome composition with implications in mediation of systemic response to radiation induced stress signaling.
Fungal Immunomodulatory Protein from Nectria haematococca Suppresses Growth of Human Lung Adenocarcinoma by Inhibiting the PI3K/Akt Pathway
Authors: Xie Yingying , Li Shuying , Sun Lei , Liu Shujun , Wang Fengzhong , Wen Boting , Sun Lichao , Fang Xiangdong , Chai Yushuang , Cao Hao , Jia Ning , Gu Tianyi , Lou Xiaomin , Xin Fengjiao
Published: November 2018

Lung cancer is a common disease that is associated with poor prognosis. Fungal immunomodulatory protein from Nectria haematococca (FIP-nha) has potential as a lung cancer therapeutic; as such, illuminating its anti-tumor mechanism is expected to facilitate novel treatment options. Here, we showed that FIP-nha affects lung adenocarcinoma growth ex vivo and in vivo. Comparative quantitative proteomics showed that FIP-nha negatively regulates PI3K/Akt signaling and induces cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and apoptosis. We further demonstrated that FIP-nha suppresses Akt phosphorylation, leading to upregulation of p21 and p27 and downregulation of cyclin B1, cyclin D1, CDK2, and CDK4 expression, ultimately resulting in G1/S and G2/M cell cycle arrest. Meanwhile, FIP-nha-induced PI3K/Akt downregulation promotes A549 apoptosis by increasing the expression ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and c-PARP and autophagy by decreasing the phosphorylation of mTOR. Thus, we comprehensively revealed the anti-tumor mechanism of FIP-nha, which inhibits tumor growth by modulating PI3K/Akt-regulated cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and apoptosis, and provided the basis for further application of fungal immunomodulatory proteins, especially FIP-nha.
Mining Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) Family Genes in Cleistogenes songorica, a Xerophyte Perennial Desert Plant
Authors: Muvunyi Blaise Pascal , Yan Qi , Wu Fan , Min Xueyang , Yan Zhuan Zhuan , Kanzana Gisele , Wang Yanrong , Zhang Jiyu
Published: November 2018

Plant growth and development depends on its ability to maintain optimal cellular homeostasis during abiotic and biotic stresses. Cleistogenes songorica, a xerophyte desert plant, is known to have novel drought stress adaptation strategies and contains rich pools of stress tolerance genes. Proteins encoded by Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) family genes promote cellular activities by functioning as disordered molecules, or by limiting collisions between enzymes during stresses. To date, functions of the LEA family genes have been heavily investigated in many plant species except perennial monocotyledonous species. In this study, 44 putative LEA genes were identified in the C. songorica genome and were grouped into eight subfamilies, based on their conserved protein domains and domain organizations. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that C. songorica Dehydrin and LEA_2 subfamily proteins shared high sequence homology with stress responsive Dehydrin proteins from Arabidopsis. Additionally, promoter regions of CsLEA_2 or CsDehydrin subfamily genes were rich in G-box, drought responsive (MBS), and/or Abscisic acid responsive (ABRE) cis-regulatory elements. In addition, gene expression analyses indicated that genes from these two subfamilies were highly responsive to heat stress and ABA treatment, in both leaves and roots. In summary, the results from this study provided a comprehensive view of C. songorica LEA genes and the potential applications of these genes for the improvement of crop tolerance to abiotic stresses.
Biological and Mechanical Properties of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membranes after Thermal Manipulation and Preparation in a Single-Syringe Closed System
Authors: Kardos Dorottya , Hornyák István , Simon Melinda , Hinsenkamp Adél , Marschall Bence , Várdai Róbert , Kállay-Menyhárd Alfréd , Pinke Balázs , Mészáros László , Kuten Olga , Nehrer Stefan , Lacza Zsombor
Published: November 2018

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane is a three-dimensional biodegradable biopolymer, which consists of platelet derived growth factors enhancing cell adhesion and proliferation. It is widely used in soft and hard tissue regeneration, however, there are unresolved problems with its clinical application. Its preparation needs open handling of the membranes, it degrades easily, and it has a low tensile strength which does not hold a suture blocking wider clinical applications of PRF. Our aim was to produce a sterile, suturable, reproducible PRF membrane suitable for surgical intervention. We compared the biological and mechanical properties of PRF membranes created by the classical glass-tube and those that were created in a single-syringe closed system (hypACT Inject), which allowed aseptic preparation. HypACT Inject device produces a PRF membrane with better handling characteristics without compromising biological properties. Freeze-thawing resulted in significantly higher tensile strength and higher cell adhesion at a lower degradation rate of the membranes. Mesenchymal stem cells seeded onto PRF membranes readily proliferated on the surface of fresh, but even better on freeze/thawed or freeze-dried membranes. These data show that PRF membranes can be made sterile, more uniform and significantly stronger which makes it possible to use them as suturable surgical membranes.
Solute Carrier Family 27 Member 4 (SLC27A4) Enhances Cell Growth, Migration, and Invasion in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Yen Meng-Chi , Chou Shih-Kai , Kan Jung-Yu , Kuo Po-Lin , Hou Ming-Feng , Hsu Ya-Ling
Published: November 2018

Fatty acid metabolism is important in the regulation of breast cancer progression. Some of the proteins involved in fatty acid transport have been demonstrated to promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion in breast cancer cells. Solute carrier family 27 member 4 (SLC27A4) is a fatty acid transporter protein and is related to very long chain acyl-CoA synthetase activity. In the present study, bioinformatic analysis revealed that relatively high SLC27A4 expression was observed in all subtypes of breast tumor tissues when compared to normal breast tissues. Silencing SLC27A4 expression significantly reduced uptake of free fatty acids in two breast cancer cell lines, Hs578T and MDA-MB-231. Cell growth inhibition was observed in SLC27A4-silenced Hs578T and cell cycle was arrested at G2/M. In addition, the capacity of migration and invasion decreased in both cell lines after knockdown of SLC27A4. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition signaling pathway was inhibited because protein expression of Slug, vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin, and other regulators was lower than that in control cells. Taken together, our results confirm that high SLC27A4 is associated with tumor progression in breast cancer cells. It is worth investigating whether SLC27A4 serves a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in further studies.
Aspects, Including Pitfalls, of Temporal Sampling of Flying Insects, with Special Reference to Aphids
Authors: Loxdale Hugh D.
Published: November 2018

Since the advent and widespread use of high-resolution molecular markers in the late 1970s, it is now well established that natural populations of insects are not necessarily homogeneous genetically and show variations at different spatial scales due to a variety of reasons, including hybridization/introgression events. In a similar vein, populations of insects are not necessarily homogenous in time, either over the course of seasons or even within a single season. This of course has profound consequences for surveys examining, for whatever reason/s, the temporal population patterns of insects, especially flying insects as mostly discussed here. In the present article, the topics covered include climate and climate change; changes in ecological niches due to changes in available hosts, i.e., essentially, adaptation events; hybridization influencing behaviour–host shifts; infection by pathogens and parasites/parasitoids; habituation to light, sound and pheromone lures; chromosomal/genetic changes affecting physiology and behaviour; and insecticide resistance. If such phenomena—i.e., aspects and pitfalls—are not considered during spatio-temporal study programmes, which is even more true in the light of the recent discovery of morphologically similar/identical cryptic species, then the conclusions drawn in terms of the efforts to combat pest insects or conserve rare and endangered species may be in error and hence end in failure.
Molecular Phylogeny, Diversity and Zoogeography of Net-Winged Beetles (Coleoptera: Lycidae)
Authors: Masek Michal , Motyka Michal , Kusy Dominik , Bocek Matej , Li Yun , Bocak Ladislav
Published: November 2018

We synthesize the evidence from molecular phylogenetics, extant distribution, and plate tectonics to present an insight in ancestral areas, dispersal routes and the effectiveness of geographic barriers for net-winged beetle tribes (Coleoptera: Lycidae). Samples from all zoogeographical realms were assembled and phylogenetic relationships for ~550 species and 25 tribes were inferred using nuclear rRNA and mtDNA markers. The analyses revealed well-supported clades at the rank of tribes as they have been defined using morphology, but a low support for relationships among them. Most tribes started their diversification in Southeast and East Asia or are endemic to this region. Slipinskiini and Dexorini are Afrotropical endemics and Calopterini, Eurrhacini, Thonalmini, and Leptolycini remained isolated in South America and the Caribbean after their separation from northern continents. Lycini, Calochromini, and Erotini support relationships between the Nearctic and eastern Palearctic faunas; Calochromini colonized the Afrotropical realm from East Asia and Metriorrhynchini Afrotropical and Oriental realms from the drifting Indian subcontinent. Most tribes occur in the Oriental and Sino-Japanese realms, the highest alpha-taxonomic diversity was identified in Malesian tropical rainforests. The turn-over at zoogeographical boundaries is discussed when only short distance over-sea colonization events were inferred. The lycid phylogeny shows that poor dispersers can be used for reconstruction of dispersal and vicariance history over a long time-span, but the current data are insufficient for reconstruction of the early phase of their diversification.
Enhancement of the Mechanical Properties in Al–Si–Cu–Fe–Mg Alloys with Various Processing Parameters
Authors: Ahn Su-Seong , Pathan Sharief , Koo Jar-Myung , Baeg Chang-Hyun , Jeong Chan-Uk , Son Hyoen-Taek , Kim Yong-Ho , Lee Kap-Ho , Hong Soon-Jik
Published: November 2018

In this research, various processing conditions were implemented to enhance the mechanical properties of Al-Si alloys. The silicon content was varied from hypoeutectic (Si-10 wt.%) to eutectic (Si-12.6 wt.%) and hypereutectic (Si-14 wt.%) for the preparation of Al-XSi-3Cu-0.5Fe-0.6 Mg (X = 10–14%) alloys using die casting. Subsequently, these alloys were hot-extruded with an optimum extrusion ratio (17:1) at 400 °C to match the output extruded bar to the compressor size. An analysis of the microstructural features along with a chemical compositional analysis were carried out using scanning electron microscope along with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope. The SEM micrographs of the extruded samples displayed cracks in primary Si, and the intermetallic (β-Al5FeSi) phase was fragmented accordingly. In addition, the silicon phase was homogenously distributed, and the size remained constant. The mechanical properties of the extruded samples were enhanced by the increase of silicon content, and consequently the ductility decreased. By implementing proper T6 heat treatment parameters, coherent Al2Cu phases were formed in the Al matrix, and the Si phase was gradually increased along with the silicon content. Therefore, high tensile strength was achieved, reaching values for the Al-XSi-3Cu-0.5Fe-0.6Mg (X = 10–14%) alloys of 366 MPa, 388 MPa, and 420 MPa, respectively.
Vehiculation of Active Principles as a Way to Create Smart and Biofunctional Textiles
Authors: Lis Arias Manuel J. , Coderch Luisa , Martí Meritxell , Alonso Cristina , García Carmona Oscar , García Carmona Carlos , Maesta Fabricio
Published: November 2018

In some specific fields of application (e.g., cosmetics, pharmacy), textile substrates need to incorporate sensible molecules (active principles) that can be affected if they are sprayed freely on the surface of fabrics. The effect is not controlled and sometimes this application is consequently neglected. Microencapsulation and functionalization using biocompatible vehicles and polymers has recently been demonstrated as an interesting way to avoid these problems. The use of defined structures (polymers) that protect the active principle allows controlled drug delivery and regulation of the dosing in every specific case. Many authors have studied the use of three different methodologies to incorporate active principles into textile substrates, and assessed their quantitative behavior. Citronella oil, as a natural insect repellent, has been vehicularized with two different protective substances; cyclodextrine (CD), which forms complexes with it, and microcapsules of gelatin-arabic gum. The retention capability of the complexes and microcapsules has been assessed using an in vitro experiment. Structural characteristics have been evaluated using thermogravimetric methods and microscopy. The results show very interesting long-term capability of dosing and promising applications for home use and on clothes in environmental conditions with the need to fight against insects. Ethyl hexyl methoxycinnamate (EHMC) and gallic acid (GA) have both been vehicularized using two liposomic-based structures: Internal wool lipids (IWL) and phosphatidylcholine (PC). They were applied on polyamide and cotton substrates and the delivery assessed. The amount of active principle in the different layers of skin was determined in vitro using a Franz-cell diffusion chamber. The results show many new possibilities for application in skin therapeutics. Biofunctional devices with controlled functionality can be built using textile substrates and vehicles. As has been demonstrated, their behavior can be assessed using in vitro methods that make extrapolation to their final applications possible.
Effect of Silica Fume as a Component of Alternative Binder on the Selected Technically Important Characteristics of Bio-Aggregate-Based Composites
Authors: Stevulova Nadezda , Junak Jozef , Vaclavik Vojtech
Published: November 2018

This experimental study was focused on the application of an alternative binder based on MgO, and the variation of its components by the combination of two MgO products obtained by the calcinations of natural magnesite, siliceous materials (river sand and silica fume), and alkaline admixture in the mixture for a preparation of composite based on biomass waste such as hemp hurds as organic filler. This paper presents the results of the effect of an MgO binder composition on the compressive strength of the bio-aggregate-based composites. Other physical properties, such as the bulk density, thermal conductivity coefficient, and water absorption, were also investigated. The measured strength parameters of the bio-composite samples that were hardened for 28 days demonstrate that the binder consisting of optimal calcined MgO and silica fume as a total replacement for sand ensures a good binding of the matrix with hemp hurd compared to other varied compositions of alternative binder. No significant differences in bulk density and thermal conductivity values were found for these composites. However, the bio-composite specimen with an MgO–SiO2 matrix had the highest compressive strength and achieved the lowest value of water absorption. An increase in hardening time of up to 90 days led to a significant improvement of strength as well as reduction in permeability.