bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Full-Frequency Impedance Modeling and Stability Analysis of the Train-Network Power Supply System for High-Speed Railways
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Wang Lei , Dunford William , Chen Jie , Liu Zhigang
Published: July 2018

To investigate the harmonic resonance, harmonic instability and low-frequency oscillation phenomena in high-speed railways, this paper proposes a full-frequency impedance model of the train-traction network system (simplified as ‘train-network’) based on d-q coordinates system. Compared with traditional models which deal with only the grid-side converter, the proposed model also includes its load models—the inverter and the traction motor. It also reflects complete control scheme of grid-side converter, which makes it easier to analyze unstable phenomena mentioned above. Moreover, this paper improves the impedance modeling of the network by taking the network impedance and admittance into detailed consideration. In addition, based on the proposed train-network model, the 3D figure and zero-pole diagram are also presented for the analysis of the stability of the integral system. Simulation and experiment results verify the accuracy of the model.
Power System Day-Ahead Unit Commitment Based on Chance-Constrained Dependent Chance Goal Programming
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Jin Tianran , Zhao Shuqiang , Liu Jinshan
Published: July 2018

In the context of large-scale renewable energy integrated into an electrical power system, the effects of power forecast errors on the power balance equation of the power system unit commitment model is considered. In this paper, the problem of solving the power balance equation with uncertain variables was studied. The unit commitment model with random variables in the power balance equation was solved by establishing a power system day-ahead optimisation unit commitment model based on chance-constrained dependent chance goal programming. First, to achieve the solution of the power balance equation with random variables, the equality constraint is loosened into an inequality constraint, and the power balance equation constraint is transformed into a dependent chance programming model aimed at maximising the probability of occurrence of random events in an uncertain environment. Then, the dependent chance programming model is proposed to ensure the economy and security of the scheme, and the goal programming model is introduced to facilitate an efficient solution. By combining dependent chance programming and goal programming, a power system day-ahead unit commitment model based on chance-constrained dependent chance goal programming is established. Finally, an example is discussed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Analysis and Control of Optimal Power Distribution for Multi-Objective Wireless Charging Systems
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Tong Ruilin , Liang Zhenyan , Liu Chunhua , Wang Jiang
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes an optimal power distribution method for multi-objective wireless power transfer (WPT) systems, aiming to improve the transmission flexibility and satisfy various power demands. Previous studies have barely explored the impact of wide-range and unpredictable variations of load parameters on the performance of multi-channel power transmissions. In this paper, by taking the impact of equivalent impedance, motion, power demand variation and response speed of charging object into consideration, an optimal power distribution scheme with fast response, high stability and high accuracy is proposed to satisfy various power demands from multiple objectives including portable electronics, moving electric vehicles (EVs), batteries and super capacitors, without using any communication networks. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is demonstrated by simulation results based on different charging cases and experimental results based on a 10 W prototype.
An Overview of Regulation Topologies in Resonant Wireless Power Transfer Systems for Consumer Electronics or Bio-Implants
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Bin , Huang Mo , Chen Zhijian , Zhang Xiuyin
Published: July 2018

Owing to its relatively high efficiency, extended transmission range, and less exposure to radio frequency radiation, near-field resonant wireless power transfer (R-WPT) has been widely used in consumer electronics and bio-implants. For most applications, a well-regulated output voltage is required against the coupling and loading variations, and thus a regulation scheme should be employed in an R-WPT system. To achieve an optimal receiver (RX) or overall efficiency, together with a reduced cost overhead, several regulation schemes have been proposed in recent years, where the regulation can be implemented at either the RX or transmitter (TX) side, or both. These regulation schemes have been reviewed and comprehensively discussed in this paper. Hence, the main contribution of this paper is to provide a guideline for designing the regulation scheme in R-WPT systems. Moreover, potential new topologies of regulation are investigated here.
SEGF: A Novel Method for Gene Fusion Detection from Single-End Next-Generation Sequencing Data
Authors: Xu Hai , Wu Xiaojin , Sun Dawei , Li Shijun , Zhang Siwen , Teng Miao , Bu Jianlong , Zhang Xizhe , Meng Bo , Wang Weitao , Tian Geng , Lin Huixin , Yuan Dawei , Lang Jidong , Xu Shidong
Published: July 2018

With the development and application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and target capture technology, the demand for an effective analysis method to accurately detect gene fusion from high-throughput data is growing. Hence, we developed a novel fusion gene analyzing method called single-end gene fusion (SEGF) by starting with single-end DNA-seq data. This approach takes raw sequencing data as input, and integrates the commonly used alignment approach basic local alignment search tool (BLAST) and short oligonucleotide analysis package (SOAP) with stringent passing filters to achieve successful fusion gene detection. To evaluate SEGF, we compared it with four other fusion gene discovery analysis methods by analyzing sequencing results of 23 standard DNA samples and DNA extracted from 286 lung cancer formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples. The results generated by SEGF indicated that it not only detected the fusion genes from standard samples and clinical samples, but also had the highest accuracy and sensitivity among the five compared methods. In addition, SEGF was capable of detecting complex gene fusion types from single-end NGS sequencing data compared with other methods. By using SEGF to acquire gene fusion information at DNA level, more useful information can be retrieved from the DNA panel or other DNA sequencing methods without generating RNA sequencing information to benefit clinical diagnosis or medication instruction. It was a timely and cost-effective measure with regard to research or diagnosis. Considering all the above, SEGF is a straightforward method without manipulating complicated arguments, providing a useful approach for the precise detection of gene fusion variation.
When Control Exacerbates Distress: A Qualitative Study Exploring the Experiences of Hong Kong Chinese Parents in Caring for a Child with Asthma
Authors: Chong Yuen-yu , Leung Doris , Mak Yim-wah
Published: July 2018

Background: Many parents have difficulty managing childhood asthma. In Hong Kong (HK), while medication is the primary form of treatment, traditional Chinese medicine is another favored option. In addition, HK follows a dual-track healthcare system, which may pose unique experiences for Chinese parents in managing childhood asthma. This qualitative descriptive study aimed to explore the experiences of HK Chinese parents in caring for their children with asthma. Methods: Fourteen HK Chinese mothers of children (aged 3–10) suffering from asthma were purposively sampled to participate in individual, semi-structured interviews. A realist approach following conventional content analysis was used to interpret the interviews. Results: The mothers expressed feelings of uncertainty, fear of asthma crises, and searched for ways to cope. As long as their child’s asthma symptoms recurred, the mothers’ distress continued. Their distress was sometimes exacerbated by self-doubt and worries over whether they would receive adequate support from their family and healthcare professionals. Conclusions: Helping parents to understand their limits may help them be more open to varied aspects of their caregiving experiences, and thus to cope better. Psychological interventions together with traditional educational training may help to alleviate the psychological difficulties of parents.
Who and Where: A Socio-Spatial Integrated Approach for Community-Based Health Research
Authors: Stacciarini Jeanne-Marie R. , Vacca Raffaele , Mao Liang
Published: July 2018

Social and spatial characteristics of a population often interact to influence health outcomes, suggesting a need to jointly analyze both to offer useful insights in community health. However, researchers have used either social or spatial analyses to examine community-based health issues and inform intervention programs. We propose a combined socio-spatial analytic approach to develop a social network with spatial weights and a spatial statistic with social weights, and apply them to an ongoing study of mental and physical well-being of rural Latino immigrants in North Florida, USA. We demonstrate how this approach can be used to calculate measures, such as social network centrality, support contact dyads, and spatial kernel density based on a health survey data. Findings reveal that the integrated approach accurately reflected interactions between social and spatial elements, and identified community members (who) and locations (where) that should be prioritized for community-based health interventions.
Exploring Harms Experienced by Children Aged 7 to 11 Using Ambulance Attendance Data: A 6-Year Comparison with Adolescents Aged 12–17
Authors: Scott Debbie , Crossin Rose , Ogeil Rowan , Smith Karen , Lubman Dan I.
Published: July 2018

Many population data sources do not routinely collect data of children under 12, despite research showing that mental health, self-injurious behaviour, and substance ingestion can have severe consequences in this age group. We used 6 years (January 2012 to December 2017) of ambulance attendance data from the Australian state of Victoria to characterise mental health, self-injurious behaviour, and substance ingestion in children aged 7–11. We compared this group to older children aged 12–17. We found that in comparison to those aged 12–17 (n = 26,778), a smaller number of children aged 7–11 years (n = 1558) were experiencing serious harms, with mental health symptomology the most common harmful outcome. Self-injurious behaviour significantly increased in both age groups throughout the study period. For mental health, self-injurious behaviour and substance ingestion in the 7–11 age group, males were significantly over-represented. These aged 7–11 were more likely to ingest pharmaceuticals, rather than alcohol or illicit substances, and suicidal ideation was the most common self-injurious behaviour in this age group. Our study suggests that data collection needs to occur specifically in the 7–11 age group, and importantly, services and interventions to improve mental health and wellbeing will need to be specifically designed and targeted at this age group.
Signs, Fines and Compliance Officers: A Systematic Review of Strategies for Enforcing Smoke-Free Policy
Authors: Wynne Olivia , Guillaumier Ashleigh , Twyman Laura , McCrabb Sam , Denham Alexandra M. J. , Paul Christine , Baker Amanda L. , Bonevski Billie
Published: July 2018

Background. Smoke-free environment policies limit or eliminate the use of smoke-producing tobacco in designated areas thereby reducing second hand smoke. Enforcement is perceived as critical to the successful adoption of a smoke-free policy. However, there is limited guidance available regarding effective enforcement strategies. A systematic review was conducted to examine the effectiveness of enforcement strategies at increasing compliance with and enforcement of smoke-free policies; and to determine circumstances other than enforcement strategies that are associated with compliance with smoke-free policies. Design. Medline, Medline in Process, The Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycInfo and CINAHL databases were searched using MeSH and keywords for relevant studies published between January 1980 and August 2017. A narrative synthesis and methodological quality assessment of included studies was undertaken. Results. Policy promotion and awareness-raising activities, signage, enforcement officers, and penalties for violations were the enforcement strategies most frequently cited as being associated with successful policy enforcement. Additionally, awareness of the laws, non-smoking management and lower staff smoking rates, and membership of a network guiding the policy enforcement contributed to higher compliance with smoke-free policies. Conclusions. There is weak evidence of the effectiveness of strategies associated with compliance with smoke-free policies. Given the evidence base is weak, well-designed trials utilizing appropriate evaluation designs are needed. Overall enforcement strategies associated with total smoke-free bans resulted in higher levels of compliance than strategies for policies that had only partial smoke-free bans.
Characteristics of Particulate Matter and Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from the Combustion of Waste Vinyl
Authors: Barabad Mona Loraine M. , Jung Wonseok , Versoza Michael E. , Lee Yong-il , Choi Kyomin , Park Duckshin
Published: July 2018

Vinyl samples were burned in a controlled environment to determine the characteristics of particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions during the combustion process. Open burning of plastic or vinyl products poses several environmental and health risks in developed and developing countries, due to the release of high concentrations of harmful pollutants. The production of fine and ultrafine particles was significant. At a heat flux of 25 kW/m2, the production of PM of 0.35 μm in size was highest at 63.0 μg/m3. In comparison, at fluxes of 35 and 50 kW/m2, the production of PM of 0.45 μm in size was highest with values of 67.8 and 87.7 μg/m3, respectively. Benzene, acetone, and other toxic compounds were also identified in the analyses.
Inferencing Human Spatiotemporal Mobility in Greater Maputo via Mobile Phone Big Data Mining
Authors: Batran Mohamed , Mejia Mariano Gregorio , Kanasugi Hiroshi , Sekimoto Yoshihide , Shibasaki Ryosuke
Published: July 2018

The mobility patterns and trip behavior of people are usually extracted from data collected by traditional survey methods. However, these methods are generally costly and difficult to implement, especially in developing cities with limited resources. The massive amounts of call detail record (CDR) data passively generated by ubiquitous mobile phone usage provide researchers with the opportunity to innovate alternative methods that are inexpensive and easier and faster to implement than traditional methods. This paper proposes a method based on proven techniques to extract the origin–destination (OD) trips from the raw CDR data of mobile phone users and process the data to capture the mobility of those users. The proposed method was applied to 3.4 million mobile phone users over a 12-day period in Mozambique, and the data processed to capture the mobility of people living in the Greater Maputo metropolitan area in different time frames (weekdays and weekends). Subsequently, trip generation maps, attraction maps, and the OD matrix of the study area, which are all practically usable for urban and transportation planning, were generated. Furthermore, spatiotemporal interpolation was applied to all OD trips to reconstruct the population distribution in the study area on an average weekday and weekend. Comparison of the results obtained with actual survey results from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) indicate that the proposed method achieves acceptable accuracy. The proposed method and study demonstrate the efficacy of mining big data sources, particularly mobile phone CDR data, to infer the spatiotemporal human mobility of people in a city and understand their flow pattern, which is valuable information for city planning.
Nucleolar GTP-Binding Protein 1-2 (NOG1-2) Interacts with Jasmonate-ZIMDomain Protein 9 (JAZ9) to Regulate Stomatal Aperture during Plant Immunity
Authors: Lee Seonghee , Rojas Clemencia M. , Oh Sunhee , Kang Miyoung , Choudhury Swarup Roy , Lee Hee-Kyung , Allen Randy D. , Pandey Sona , Mysore Kirankumar S.
Published: July 2018

Plant defense responses at stomata and apoplast are the most important early events during plant–bacteria interactions. The key components of stomatal defense responses have not been fully characterized. A GTPase encoding gene, NOG1-2, which is required for stomatal innate immunity against bacterial pathogens, was recently identified. Functional studies in Arabidopsis revealed that NOG1-2 regulates guard cell signaling in response to biotic and abiotic stimulus through jasmonic acid (JA)- and abscisic acid (ABA)-mediated pathways. Interestingly, in this study, Jasmonate-ZIM-domain protein 9 (JAZ9) was identified to interact with NOG1-2 for the regulation of stomatal closure. Upon interaction, JAZ9 reduces GTPase activity of NOG1-2. We explored the role of NOG1-2 binding with JAZ9 for COI1-mediated JA signaling and hypothesized that its function may be closely linked to MYC2 transcription factor in the regulation of the JA-signaling cascade in stomatal defense against bacterial pathogens. Our study provides valuable information on the function of a small GTPase, NOG1-2, in guard cell signaling and early plant defense in response to bacterial pathogens.
In Vitro Transcriptome Response to a Mixture of Lactobacilli Strains in Intestinal Porcine Epithelial Cell Line
Authors: Taranu Ionelia , Marin Daniela , Braicu Cornelia , Pistol Gina , Sorescu Ionut , Pruteanu Lavinia , Berindan Neagoe Ioana , Vodnar Dan
Published: July 2018

Background: Food and feed supplements containing microorganisms with probiotic potential are of increasing interest due to their healthy promoting effect on human and animals. Their mechanism of action is still unknown. Using a microarray approach, the aim of this study was to investigate the differences in genome-wide gene expression induced by a mixture of three Lactobacillus strains (L. rhamnosus, L. plantarum, and L. paracasei) in intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-1) and to identify the genes and pathways involved in intestinal barrier functions. Methods: Undifferentiated IPEC-1 cells seeded at a density of 2.0 × 105/mL in 24-wells culture plates were cultivated at 37 °C and 5% CO2 until they reached confluence (2–3 days). Confluent cells monolayer were then cultivated with 1 mL of fresh lactobacilli (LB) mixture suspension prepared for a concentration of approximately 3.3 × 107 CFU/mL for each strain (1 × 108 CFU/mL in total) for 3 h and analyzed by microarray using Gene Spring GX v.11.5. Results: The functional analysis showed that 1811 of the genes modulated by LB treatment are involved in signaling (95% up-regulation, 121 genes with a fold change higher than 10). The most enhanced expression was registered for AXIN2 (axis inhibition protein 2-AXIN2) gene (13.93 Fc, p = 0.043), a negative regulator of β-catenin with a key role in human cancer. LB affected the cellular proliferation by increasing 10 times (Fc) the NF1 gene encoding for the neurofibromin protein, a tumor suppressor that prevent cells from uncontrolled proliferation. The induction of genes like serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade A member 3 (SERPINA 3), interleukin-20 (IL-20), oncostatin M (OSM), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and the suppression of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2/macrophage inflammatory protein 2-alpha (CXCL-2/MIP-2), regulator of G-protein signaling 2 (RGS2), and of pro-inflammatory interleukin-18 (IL-18) genes highlights the protective role of lactobacilli in epithelial barrier function against inflammation and in the activation of immune response. Conclusion: Gene overexpression was the predominant effect produced by lactobacilli treatment in IPEC-1 cells, genes related to signaling pathways being the most affected. The protective role of lactobacilli in epithelial barrier function against inflammation and in the activation of immune response was also noticed.
NR1 and NR3B Composed Intranuclear N-methyl-d-aspartate Receptor Complexes in Human Melanoma Cells
Authors: Hajdú Tibor , Juhász Tamás , Szűcs-Somogyi Csilla , Rácz Kálmán , Zákány Róza
Published: July 2018

Heterotetrameric N-methyl-d-aspartate type glutamate receptors (NMDAR) are cationic channels primarily permeable for Ca2+. NR1 and NR3 subunits bind glycine, while NR2 subunits bind glutamate for full activation. As NR1 may contain a nuclear localization signal (NLS) that is recognized by importin-α, our aim was to investigate if NMDARs are expressed in the nuclei of melanocytes and melanoma cells. A detailed NMDAR subunit expression pattern was examined by RT-PCRs (reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction), fractionated western blots and immunocytochemistry in human epidermal melanocytes and in human melanoma cell lines A2058, HT199, HT168M1, MEL35/0 and WM35. All kind of NMDAR subunits are expressed as mRNAs in melanocytes, as well as in melanoma cells, while NR2B protein remained undetectable in any cell type. Western blots proved the exclusive presence of NR1 and NR3B in nuclear fractions and immunocytochemistry confirmed NR1-NR3B colocalization inside the nuclei of all melanoma cells. The same phenomenon was not observed in melanocytes. Moreover, protein database analysis revealed a putative NLS in NR3B subunit. Our results support that unusual, NR1-NR3B composed NMDAR complexes are present in the nuclei of melanoma cells. This may indicate a new malignancy-related histopathological feature of melanoma cells and raises the possibility of a glycine-driven, NMDA-related nuclear Ca2+-signalling in these cells.
Recent Progress in Gene Therapy for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Áyen Ángela , Jiménez Martínez Yaiza , Marchal Juan A. , Boulaiz Houria
Published: July 2018

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy in developed countries. This is due to the lack of specific symptoms that hinder early diagnosis and to the high relapse rate after treatment with radical surgery and chemotherapy. Hence, novel therapeutic modalities to improve clinical outcomes in ovarian malignancy are needed. Progress in gene therapy has allowed the development of several strategies against ovarian cancer. Most are focused on the design of improved vectors to enhance gene delivery on the one hand, and, on the other hand, on the development of new therapeutic tools based on the restoration or destruction of a deregulated gene, the use of suicide genes, genetic immunopotentiation, the inhibition of tumour angiogenesis, the alteration of pharmacological resistance, and oncolytic virotherapy. In the present manuscript, we review the recent advances made in gene therapy for ovarian cancer, highlighting the latest clinical trials experience, the current challenges and future perspectives.
The Genomics and Molecular Biology of Natural Killer/T-Cell Lymphoma: Opportunities for Translation
Authors: De Mel Sanjay , Soon Gwyneth Shook-Ting , Mok Yingting , Chung Tae-Hoon , Jeyasekharan Anand D. , Chng Wee-Joo , Ng Siok-Bian
Published: July 2018

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL), is an aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis. While the introduction of L-asparaginase in the treatment of this disease has significantly improved the prognosis, the outcome of patients relapsing after asparaginase-based chemotherapy, which occurs in up to 50% of patients with disseminated disease, remains dismal. There is hence an urgent need for effective targeted therapy especially in the relapsed/refractory setting. Gene expression profiling studies have provided new perspectives on the molecular biology, ontogeny and classification of ENKTL and further identified dysregulated signaling pathways such as Janus associated kinase (/Signal Transducer and activation of transcription (JAK/STAT), Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), Aurora Kinase and NF-κB, which are under evaluation as therapeutic targets. Copy number analyses have highlighted potential tumor suppressor genes such as PR Domain Zinc Finger Protein 1 (PRDM1) and protein tyrosine phosphatase kappa (PTPRK) while next generation sequencing studies have identified recurrently mutated genes in pro-survival and anti-apoptotic pathways. The discovery of epigenetic dysregulation and aberrant microRNA activity has broadened our understanding of the biology of ENKTL. Importantly, immunotherapy via Programmed Cell Death -1 (PD-1) and Programmed Cell Death Ligand1 (PD-L1) checkpoint signaling inhibition is emerging as an attractive therapeutic strategy in ENKTL. Herein, we present an overview of the molecular biology and genomic landscape of ENKTL with a focus on the most promising translational opportunities.
p19-Targeting ILP Protein Blockers of IL-23/Th-17 Pro-Inflammatory Axis Displayed on Engineered Bacteria of Food Origin
Authors: Škrlec Katja , Zadravec Petra , Hlavničková Marie , Kuchař Milan , Vaňková Lucie , Petroková Hana , Křížová Lucie , Černý Jiří , Berlec Aleš , Malý Petr
Published: July 2018

IL-23-mediated Th-17 cell activation and stimulation of IL-17-driven pro-inflammatory axis has been associated with autoimmunity disorders such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or Crohn’s Disease (CD). Recently we developed a unique class of IL-23-specific protein blockers, called ILP binding proteins that inhibit binding of IL-23 to its cognate cell-surface receptor (IL-23R) and exhibit immunosuppressive effect on human primary blood leukocytes ex vivo. In this study, we aimed to generate a recombinant Lactococcus lactis strain which could serve as in vivo producer/secretor of IL-23 protein blockers into the gut. To achieve this goal, we introduced ILP030, ILP317 and ILP323 cDNA sequences into expression plasmid vector containing USP45 secretion signal, FLAG sequence consensus and LysM-containing cA surface anchor (AcmA) ensuring cell-surface peptidoglycan anchoring. We demonstrate that all ILP variants are expressed in L. lactis cells, efficiently transported and secreted from the cell and displayed on the bacterial surface. The binding function of AcmA-immobilized ILP proteins is documented by interaction with a recombinant p19 protein, alpha subunit of human IL-23, which was assembled in the form of a fusion with Thioredoxin A. ILP317 variant exhibits the best binding to the human IL-23 cytokine, as demonstrated for particular L.lactis-ILP recombinant variants by Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). We conclude that novel recombinant ILP-secreting L. lactis strains were developed that might be useful for further in vivo studies of IL-23-mediated inflammation on animal model of experimentally-induced colitis.
The Olive Biophenols Oleuropein and Hydroxytyrosol Selectively Reduce Proliferation, Influence the Cell Cycle, and Induce Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Goldsmith Chloe D. , Bond Danielle R. , Jankowski Helen , Weidenhofer Judith , Stathopoulos Costas E. , Roach Paul D. , Scarlett Christopher J.
Published: July 2018

Current chemotherapy drugs for pancreatic cancer only offer an increase in survival of up to six months. Additionally, they are highly toxic to normal tissues, drastically affecting the quality of life of patients. Therefore, the search for novel agents, which induce apoptosis in cancer cells while displaying limited toxicity towards normal cells, is paramount. The olive biophenols, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, have displayed cytotoxicity towards cancer cells without affecting non-tumorigenic cells in cancers of the breast and prostate. However, their activity in pancreatic cancer has not been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the anti-pancreatic cancer potential of oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol. Pancreatic cancer cells (MIA PaCa-2, BxPC-3, and CFPAC-1) and non-tumorigenic pancreas cells (HPDE) were treated with oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol to determine their effect on cell viability. Oleuropein displayed selective toxicity towards MIA PaCa-2 cells and hydroxytyrosol towards MIA PaCa-2 and HPDE cells. Subsequent analysis of Bcl-2 family proteins and caspase 3/7 activation determined that oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol induced apoptosis in MIA PaCa-2 cells, while oleuropein displayed a protective effect on HPDE cells. Gene expression analysis revealed putative mechanisms of action, which suggested that c-Jun and c-Fos are involved in oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol induced apoptosis of MIA PaCa-2 cells.
Using the Logistic Coupled Map for Public Key Cryptography under a Distributed Dynamics Encryption Scheme
Authors: Solís-Sánchez Hugo , Barrantes E. Gabriela
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, there is a high necessity to create new and robust cryptosystems. Dynamical systems have promised to develop crypto-systems due to the close relationship between them and the cryptographic requirements. Distributed dynamic encryption (DDE) represents the first mathematical method to generate a public-key cryptosystem based on chaotic dynamics. However, it has been described that the DDE proposal has a weak point in the decryption process related to efficiency and practicality. In this work, we adapted the DDE to a low-dimensional chaotic system to evaluate the weakness and security of the adaption in a realistic example. Specifically, we used a non-symmetric logistic coupled map, which is known to have multiple chaotic attractors improving the shortcomings related to the simple logistic map that manifests its inadequacy for cryptographic applications. We found a full implementation with acceptable computational cost and speed for DDE, which it is essential because it provides a key cryptographic requirement for chaos-based cryptosystems.
Heat Transfer Performance Enhancement of Gravity Heat Pipes by Growing AAO Nanotubes on Inner Wall Surface
Authors: Weng Huei Chu , Yang Meng-Hsueh
Published: July 2018

In this paper, the heat transfer performance of gravity heat pipes with anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) wall surface is studied. The main purpose is to study the effects of the length and diameter of AAO nanotubes on the temperature distribution, overall thermal resistance, and dry-out occurrence of gravity heat pipes charged with acetone under different input heat powers. AAO nanotubes were first grown by anodizing the inner wall surface of the evaporator section of aluminum alloy gravity heat pipes. The influences of AAO nanotube length and diameter on the temperature distribution, overall thermal resistance, and dry-out occurrence were then investigated by a thermal performance test system. Experimental results show that increasing the AAO nanotube length could result in reduced temperature variation between the evaporator section and the condenser section, leading to reduced thermal resistance, and delayed dry-out occurrence at higher heat inputs. In addition, increasing the AAO nanotube diameter could also cause decreases in temperature variation and overall thermal resistance, but it could not have a significant effect on the occurrence of dry-out phenomenon. Based on these results, it can be concluded that, if the anodic oxidation treatment is applied to the inner wall surface of the evaporator section of a gravity heat pipe, its heat transfer performance could be significantly improved. The maximum temperature difference and overall thermal resistance of the processed heat pipe are 46.12% and 58.68% lower than those of the unprocessed heat pipe, respectively; moreover, compared to the unprocessed heat pipe, the maximum applicable input heat power to avoid dry-out occurrence can be increased up to about 40%. Such a study could be used for cooling purposes in a wide range of applications such as passive cooling of electronic devices, highly efficient heat recovery, and cleanroom air conditioning.
Electrochemical Deposition and Nucleation/Growth Mechanism of Ni–Co–Y2O3 Multiple Coatings
Authors: Zhou Xinyu , Wang Yiyong , Liang Zhipeng , Jin Hui
Published: July 2018

Ni–Co alloy and Ni–Co–Y2O3 multiple coatings refined with nano-Y2O3 particles were fabricated by ultrasonic-assisted electrochemical deposition in an acid sulfamate bath. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), chronoamperometry (CA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques were applied to investigate the nucleation/growth process of composite coatings in co-deposition. The LSV results indicated that the incorporation of nano-Y2O3 particles with the Ni–Co matrix shifted the initial deposition potential to a more positive potential and decreased cathodic polarization. For both coatings, the nucleation/growth process approximately agreed with the Scharifker–Hill instantaneous nucleation model. Nucleation parameters, including active nucleation sites (N0) and nucleation rate (A) of the composite, were higher when the measured potential range was between −1.05 V (vs. SCE) and −1.20 V vs. SCE, when compared with the Ni–Co alloy, and the observed AFM images of the coatings were in good agreement with the calculated nucleation parameters (using the Marquardt–Levenberg algorithm) of experimental curves. EIS testing indicated that the charge transfer resistance of the composite was lower in electrodeposition. The incorporation of nano-Y2O3 particles in the matrix changed the preferred orientation of coatings and produced a more uniform and compact deposit layer with finer grains.
Marine Skeletons: Towards Hard Tissue Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Macha Innocent J. , Ben-Nissan Besim
Published: July 2018

Musculoskeletal disorders in the elderly have significantly increased due to the increase in an ageing population. The treatment of these diseases necessitates surgical procedures, including total joint replacements such as hip and knee joints. Over the years a number of treatment options have been specifically established which are either permanent or use temporary natural materials such as marine skeletons that possess unique architectural structure and chemical composition for the repair and regeneration of bone tissue. This review paper will give an overview of presently used materials and marine structures for hard tissue repair and regeneration, drugs of marine origin and other marine products which show potential for musculoskeletal treatment.
QTc-prolonging drugs and the risk of sudden death
Authors: Reingardienė Dagmara , Vilčinskaitė Jolita
Published: July 2018

Various drugs can be associated with QT prolongation. A prolonged QT interval leads to an increased risk for the development of ventricular tachyarrhythmias, particularly polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (torsades de pointes). Polymorphic arrhythmia may rapidly develop into ventricular fibrillation and cause sudden death. Torsades de pointes is classically associated with early depolarization. This review article discusses the mechanisms of QTc prolongation and triggering factors for proarrhythmia, drugs that prolong QT interval (class III antiarrhythmic agents, antimicrobial agents – fluoroquinolone and macrolide antibiotics, antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs, agents used in general anesthesia, antimycotics, and several other drugs), nonpharmacological and pharmacological risk factors for arrhythmias (due to pharmacokineticpharmacodynamic interactions), the treatment and recommendations to prevent arrhythmia related to QT prolongation.
Surface plasmon resonance and its application to biomedical research
Authors: Kaušaitė Asta , Ramanavičienė Almira , Mostovojus Viktoras , Ramanavičius Arūnas
Published: July 2018

In the recent years, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) has become one of the major methods for studying and determination of biologically active materials exhibiting affinity interactions. SRP biosensors are increasingly used in biochemistry and bioanalytical chemistry to determine antibody-antigen interactions, to investigate DNA hybridization, to diagnose bacteria- and virus-induced diseases, to identify hormones, steroids, and immunoglobulins, to investigate blood plasma coagulation. Using SPR biosensors, it is possible to analyze the mixtures of substances with a very similar chemical structure because SPR allows identifying only those analytes that specifically interact with biologically active substance immobilized on the surface of SPR biosensor. SPR biosensors are applied to monitor interactions between immobilized biologically active substance and analyte in real-time without labeling. On the other hand, it is possible to investigate not only association of analyte with immobilized material, but also the dissociation of a newly formed complex. SPR biosensors in many cases may be used to perform up to 50 measurements with the same SPR chip with an immobilized biological recognition element. Therefore, at present SPR is one of the most promising methods for determining the interactions between ligand and receptor, antigen and antibody, thus being increasingly used in diagnostics and biomedical research.
Lithuanian physical activity strategy: The culture of the body or the body cult?
Authors: Jankauskienė Rasa
Published: July 2018

The article is devoted to disclosure of the tendencies in the promotion of Lithuanian physical activity. During the Soviet times, Lithuanian sports politics was oriented to elite sport and it is still. The attempts to foster physical activity of the population lie on the movement “Sport for all,” but the results of the movement are not effective enough, because only a small part of the population (approximately 6%) took part in it. No one governmental institution has full and clear responsibility for the results of physical activity promotion. The poor environment of physical activity results in poor possibilities to be physically active in leisure domain. Differently, the huge expansion of the private sport, health, and beauty industries fosters the adoration of the body and overemphasizes the meaning of body image in the society. Physical activity is represented as the measure to achieve ideal body image or good health, but not as the measure of the overall culture of the human or society. Conclusions. The long-lasting, health-related physical activity-oriented national strategy is essential to foster physical activity, health, and quality of life at the national level. The multiplicity of possibilities in the physical activity would foster lifestyle activity instead of adoration of body image and would improve the psychological and physical well-being of the population.
Extra-anatomic thoracic aortic bypass operations
Authors: Valaika Arūnas , Norkūnas Gediminas , Kalinauskas Gintaras , Nogienė Giedrė , Verižnikovas Jurgis , Uždavinys Giedrius , Sirvydis Vytautas
Published: July 2018

Objective. When the patient condition contraindicates major surgery for descending thoracic aneurysms, the surgeon should consider using an ascending aorta to abdominal aorta bypass graft, leaving the diseased segment undisturbed. Our experience with eight patients is presented. Material and methods. Between 1988 and 2008, eight patients were treated for the following indications: reoperation for coarctation (two patients), complicated descending aortic aneurysms (five patients), and posttraumatic descending aorta dissection (one patient). The mean age of the patients was 44±8 years (range, 27–53 years). There were 6 (75%) males and 2 (25%) females. Emergency operations were performed in three patients (two with aortic recoarctation, one with posttraumatic aortic dissection). Two cases were reoperations (both after recoarctation). Descending aorta was ligated in seven cases. Distal anastomosis was connected with abdominal aorta in four cases and with iliac arteries in four patients. Results. Three early deaths occurred. Two patients died after emergency operation after recoarctation and posttraumatic aortic dissection, and one patient died after descending aorta aneurysm correction because of bleeding. Conclusions. In complex aortic coarctation, extra-anatomic bypass operation remains an effective procedure. The usage of these procedures in patients with descending aortic aneurysms remains complicated.
Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus in pediatric and adult male patients with congenital and acquired phimosis
Authors: Jasaitienė Daiva , Valiukevičienė Skaidra , Vaitkienė Daiva , Jievaltas Mindaugas , Barauskas Vidmantas , Gudinavičienė Inga , Franke Ingolf , Gollnick Harald
Published: July 2018

Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is a chronic inflammatory sclerotic and atrophic disease of unknown cause that predominantly affects male and female genital skin. This study was designed to evaluate histological characteristics of congenital and acquired phimoses among pediatric (n=60) and adult (n=60) male patients who were admitted for circumcision to the Clinics of Urology and Pediatric Surgery of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital between 2000 and 2003 and to determine the rate of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and other histological diagnoses among them. This study demonstrates that 45.1% of congenital and 62.3% of acquired phimoses show histological signs of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. The rate of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus was statistically significantly higher among patients with acquired than congenital phimosis. Boys with acquired narrowing of prepuce were statistically significantly 3.9 times more likely to develop lichen sclerosus et atrophicus than those with congenital phimosis. There were no statistically significant differences between rates of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and other dermatological diagnoses among pediatric and adult male patients if the type of phimosis (acquired or congenital) was considered. Histological features of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and other histological diagnoses in boys and men with phimosis were detected with equal frequency irrespective the age of the subjects. The rate of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus was similar among all boys (56.7%) and men (53.3%) treated for phimosis. Only the type of phimosis had a statistically significant influence on the rate of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and other histological diagnoses.
Correlation between the Liquid Fraction, Microstructure and Tensile Behaviors of 7075 Aluminum Alloy Processed by Recrystallization and Partial Remelting (RAP)
Authors: Fu Jinlong , Yang Dong , Wang Kaikun
Published: July 2018

The recrystallization and partial remelting (RAP) method was applied to obtain the semisolid 7075 aluminum alloy with different liquid fractions. The effects of liquid fraction on the microstructure and tensile properties were determined in detail. The results show that during the semisolid isothermal treatment, the number of the intra-granular liquid droplets increased initially with the melting of the eutectic phases. Extension of isothermal soaking led to the coarsening and spheroidization of the intra-granular droplets. Finally, these liquid droplets merged and moved towards the grain exterior. The room temperature tensile strength of the RAP-processed AA7075 alloy, which were isothermally soaked at 600 and 610 °C, increased with the holding time from 5 to 15 min and then decreased dramatically from 15 to 25 min, whilst that soaked at 620 °C decreased monotonously. The fracture morphology exhibited intra-granular fracture mode at low liquid fractions. However, it transformed to a completely brittle and inter-granular type at high liquid fractions and the cohesive force of the liquid-solid interfaces at the grain boundaries determined the strength of the alloys. The transfer of the intra-granular liquid droplets into the inter-granular liquid phase played a significant role for the different fracture behaviors of the RAP-processed AA7075 alloy. The paper provides some reference for better controlling the microstructure and mechanical properties in semisolid processing.
Novel Disc Hydrodynamic Polishing Process and Tool for High-Efficiency Polishing of Ultra-Smooth Surfaces
Authors: Lin Bin , Jiang Xiang-Min , Cao Zhong-Chen , Li Yan
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, large aspheric surfaces, including non-rotationally symmetric surfaces, are increasingly used in ground- and space-based astronomical instruments. The fabrication of these surfaces with sub-micrometric form accuracy and nanometric surface finish, especially for hard and difficult-to-machine materials, has always been a challenge to the optics industry. To produce ultra-smooth surfaces efficiently without subsurface damage and surface scratches, a novel disc hydrodynamic polishing (DHDP) process is proposed through the combination of elastic emission machining and fluid jet polishing. Firstly, the polishing tool for DHDP was carefully designed and the feasibility of the proposed method was experimentally verified. The liquid film was found to act as a carrier of abrasive grains between the polishing tool and the polished surface. Next, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to study the effects of process parameters on the slurry film flow in DHDP. Finally, preliminary experiments were conducted to verify the CFD simulations. The experimental data reasonably agree with the simulation results, which show that increasing rotational speed has no influence on the film thickness for the polishing tool without grooves, but leads to increased film thickness for the polishing tool with grooves. Moreover, DHDP can efficiently reduce the surface roughness and acquire ultra-smooth surfaces without subsurface damage and scratches.
Resist Filling Study for UV Nanoimprint Lithography Using Stamps with Various Micro/Nano Ratios
Authors: Yin Minqi , Sun Hongwen , Wang Haibin
Published: July 2018

Mixed micro- and nanoscale structures are gaining popularity in various fields due to their rapid advances in patterning. An investigation in stamp resist filling with multiscale cavities via ultraviolet (UV) nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL) is necessary to improve stamp design. Here, simulations at the level of individual features were conducted to explain different filling behaviors of micro- and nanoscale line patterns. There were noticeable interactions between the micro-/nanoscale cavities. These delayed the resist filling process. Several chip-scale simulations were performed using test patterns with different micro/nano ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3. There were some minor influences that changed the micro/nano ratios on overall imprint qualities. During the imprinting process, the pressure difference at the boundary between micro- and nanoscale patterns became obvious, with a value of 0.04 MPa. There was a thicker residual layer and worse cavity filling when the proportion of nanoscale structures increased.
Design and Fabrication of a Three-Dimensional Artificial Compound Eye Using Two-Photon Polymerization
Authors: Lin Jieqiong , Kan Yudi , Jing Xian , Lu Mingming
Published: July 2018

Microlens arrays have been widely used in the fields of micro-optics because of the advantages of their high diffraction efficiency, high fill factor, and wide operating band. However, the microlens array still has problems with its smaller field of view (FOV) and lower utilization of light energy. In this paper, a 3D compound eye system consisting of a microlens array and a pinhole array was designed according to the optical principle of insect compound eye. The artificial compound eye structure was processed in two-photon polymerization processing technology. Ray tracing and optical system simulation of the designed artificial compound eye structure were performed. The results showed that the artificial compound eye structure had a wider FOV and higher light energy utilization than a conventional 2D microlens array. This thesis may lay a theoretical foundation for the structural optimization design of microlens arrays.