bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Encoder-Decoder Adversarial Reconstruction (DEAR) Network for 3D CT from Few-View Data
Authors: Xie Huidong , Shan Hongming , Wang Ge
Published: December 2019

X-ray computed tomography (CT) is widely used in clinical practice. The involved ionizing X-ray radiation, however, could increase cancer risk. Hence, the reduction of the radiation dose has been an important topic in recent years. Few-view CT image reconstruction is one of the main ways to minimize radiation dose and potentially allow a stationary CT architecture. In this paper, we propose a deep encoder-decoder adversarial reconstruction (DEAR) network for 3D CT image reconstruction from few-view data. Since the artifacts caused by few-view reconstruction appear in 3D instead of 2D geometry, a 3D deep network has a great potential for improving the image quality in a data driven fashion. More specifically, our proposed DEAR-3D network aims at reconstructing 3D volume directly from clinical 3D spiral cone-beam image data. DEAR is validated on a publicly available abdominal CT dataset prepared and authorized by Mayo Clinic. Compared with other 2D deep learning methods, the proposed DEAR-3D network can utilize 3D information to produce promising reconstruction results.
RASSF10 Is a TGFβ-Target That Regulates ASPP2 and E-Cadherin Expression and Acts as Tumor Suppressor That Is Epigenetically Downregulated in Advanced Cancer
Authors: Richter Antje M. , Küster Miriam M. , Woods Michelle L. , Walesch Sara K. , Gökyildirim Mira Y. , Krueger Marcus , Dammann Reinhard H.
Published: December 2019

The Ras Association Domain Family (RASSF) encodes members of tumor suppressor genes which are frequently inactivated in human cancers. Here, the function and the regulation of RASSF10, that contains a RA (Ras-association) and two coiled domains, was investigated. We utilized mass spectrometry and immuno-precipitation to identify interaction partners of RASSF10. Additionally, we analyzed the up- and downstream pathways of RASSF10 that are involved in its tumor suppressive function. We report that RASSF10 binds ASPP1 (Apoptosis-stimulating protein of p53) and ASPP2 through its coiled-coils. Induction of RASSF10 leads to increased protein levels of ASPP2 and acts negatively on cell cycle progression. Interestingly, we found that RASSF10 is a target of the EMT (epithelial mesenchymal transition) driver TGFβ (Transforming growth factor beta) and that negatively associated genes of RASSF10 are significantly over-represented in an EMT gene set collection. We observed a positive correlation of RASSF10 expression and E-cadherin that prevents EMT. Depletion of RASSF10 by CRISPR/Cas9 technology induces the ability of lung cancer cells to proliferate and to invade an extracellular matrix after TGFβ treatment. Additionally, knockdown of RASSF10 or ASPP2 induced constitutive phosphorylation of SMAD2 (Smad family member 2). Moreover, we found that epigenetic reduction of RASSF10 levels correlates with tumor progression and poor survival in human cancers. Our study indicates that RASSF10 acts a TGFβ target gene and negatively regulates cell growth and invasion through ASPP2. This data suggests that epigenetic loss of RASSF10 contributes to tumorigenesis by promoting EMT induced by TGFβ.
Glycerolipid Composition and Advanced Physicochemical Considerations of Sacha Inchi Oil toward Cosmetic Products Formulation
Authors: Penagos-Calvete Diana , Duque Valeria , Marimon Claudia , Parra Diana M. , Restrepo-Arango Sandra K. , Scherf-Clavel Oliver , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Montoya Guillermo , Salamanca Constain H.
Published: December 2019

Sacha inchi oil is a premier raw material with highly nutritional and functional features for the foodstuff, pharmaceutical, beauty, and personal care industries. One of the most important facts about this oil is the huge chemical content of unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, the current available information on the characterization of the triglyceride composition and the advance physicochemical parameters relevant to emulsion development is limited. Therefore, this research focused on providing a detailed description of the lipid composition using high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry and thorough physicochemical characterization to find the value of the required hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB). For this, a study in the interfacial tension was evaluated, followed by the assessment of different parameters such as creaming index, droplet size, viscosity, zeta potential, pH, and electrical conductivity for a series emulsified at thermal stress condition. The results show that fatty acids are arranged into glycerolipids and the required HLB to achieve the maximum physical stability is around 8.
Synthesis, Single Crystal X-Ray Structure, Theoretical Studies of Triple-{MnIII-Schiff-Base}-Decorated Molybdate
Authors: Xiao Jian-Chang , Wu Qiong , Lei Yuan , Sun Jin-Rong , Jiang Fang , Xu Yan , Xu Xin-Di , Li Tianyu
Published: December 2019

The design and synthesis of magnets with low dimensionality is currently an attractive research topic. The reaction of a Schiff base metal complex with simple molybdate has led to the formation of a new {MnIII-Schiff-base}-decorated molybdate heterometallic cluster, [{Mn(salpn)(H2O)}3MoO4](CH3COO)·2H2O (1) (salpn = N,N’-(1,3-propylene)bis(salicylideneiminate)). The hybrid aggregate was characterized using a range of methods including elemental analysis, single crystal x-ray diffraction, Infrared spectra (IR) spectroscopy, and x-ray structural analysis. The crystals of 1 are hexagonal: P63/m, a = 14.027(5) Å, c = 17.487(5) Å, V = 1142.6(3) Å3. Structural analyses indicate that we report on the preparation of the first triple metallic-oligomer held by orthomolybdate. Density functional theoretical calculation (DFT) studies have been performed to calculate electronic structure and potential energy landscapes. Additionally, the magnetic property of 1 indicates an antiferromagnetic coupling between the metal centers in the complex.
Peri-Implantitis Diagnosis and Prognosis Using Biomarkers in Peri-Implant Crevicular Fluid: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alassy Hatem , Parachuru Praveen , Wolff Larry
Published: December 2019

Dental implant diseases, peri-implantitis (PI) and peri-implant mucositis (PIM), have shown wide prevalence in recent studies. Despite the prevalence, diagnosing peri-implant disease (PID) remains challenging as common diagnostic methods of periodontal probing and radiographs may be inaccurate. These methods only document pre-existing destruction rather than current disease activity. Furthermore, there is no current model to predict the progression of PID. Though a predictive model is lacking, biomarkers may offer some potential. Biomarkers are commonly used in medicine to objectively determine disease state, or responses to a therapeutic intervention. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) biomarkers have moderate diagnostic validity in periodontitis. Biomarkers in peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) also show promising results in regard to their diagnostic and prognostic value. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of PICF biomarkers in the diagnosis of PID and evaluate their validity to predict disease progression. This review found that PICF studies utilize different methods of sampling and interpretation with varying validity (sensitivity and specificity). A number of promising diagnostic techniques were identified. Commercially available chair-side tests for MMP-8 to diagnose periodontal disease and PID activity are now available. Future directions include proteomics and metabolomics for accurate, site-specific diagnosis and prediction of PID progression. Although more research is needed, this review concludes that the assessment of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNFα, MMP-8) in the PICF may be of value to diagnose PI and PIM but current research remains insufficient to indicate whether biomarkers predict peri-implant disease progression.
Multi-Layered Perceptual Model for Haptic Perception of Compliance
Authors: Shao Zhiyu , Wu Juan , Ouyang Qiangqiang , He Cong , Cao Zhiyong
Published: December 2019

Haptic rendering of compliance is widely used in human–computer haptic interaction. Haptic impressions of virtual objects are usually controlled through rendering algorithms and devices. However, subjective feelings of compliance are easily affected by physical properties of objects, interactive modes, and so on. So it is important to ascertain the mapping relations between controlled physical parameters and subjective perceptual feelings. In this paper, a multi-layered perceptual model was built based on psychophysical experiments to discuss these relationships in a simplified scene. Interactive signals of physical stimuli are collected by the physical receptor layer, handled by the subjective classifier layer and finally generate the evaluation results of compliance. The physical perceptual layer is used to extract useful interaction features affecting perceptual results. The subjective classifier layer is used to analyze the perceptual dimensionality of the compliance perception. The final aim of the model is to determine the mapping relationships between interaction features and dimensions of perception space. Interactive features are extracted from the interaction data collected during the exploring process, perceptual dimensionality of the compliance perception was analyzed by the factor analysis method, and relations between hierarchical layers were obtained by multi-linear regression analysis. A verification test was performed to show whether the proposed model can predict the perceptual result of new samples well. The results indicate that the model was reliable to estimate the perceptual results of compliance with an accuracy of approximately 90%. This paper may contribute a lot to the design and improvement of human-computer interaction and intelligent sensing system.
Radar Waveform Optimization for Joint Radar Communications Performance
Authors: Chiriyath Alex R. , Ragi Shankarachary , Mittelmann Hans D. , Bliss Daniel W.
Published: December 2019

We develop and present a radar waveform design method that optimizes the spectral shape of the radar waveform so that joint performance of a cooperative radar communications system is maximized. The continuous water-filling (WF) spectral-mask shaping method presented in this paper is based on the previously derived spectral-mask shaping technique. However, the method presented in this paper is modified to utilize the continuous spectral water-filling algorithm to improve communications performance. We also introduce additional practical system constraints on the autocorrelation peak side-lobe-to-main-lobe ratio and radar waveform spectral leakage. Finally, we perform a numerical study to compare the performance of the continuous WF spectral-mask-shaping method with the previously derived method. The global estimation rate, which also accounts for non-local estimation errors, and the data rate capture radar and communications performance respectively.
Efficient Evaluation of Slowly Converging Integrals Arising from MAP Application to a Spectral-Domain Integral Equation
Authors: Lucido Mario , Migliore Marco Donald , Nosich Alexander I. , Panariello Gaetano , Pinchera Daniele , Schettino Fulvio
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we devised an analytical technique to efficiently evaluate the improper integrals of oscillating and slowly decaying functions arising from the application of the method of analytical preconditioning (MAP) to a spectral-domain integral equation. The reasoning behind the method’s application may consistently remain the same, but such a procedure can significantly differ from problem to problem. An exhaustive and understandable description of such a technique is provided in this paper, where we applied MAP for the first time to analysis of electromagnetic scattering from a zero-thickness perfectly electrically conducting (PEC) disk in a planarly layered medium. Our problem was formulated in the vector Hankel transform domain and discretized via the Galerkin method, with expansion functions reconstructing the physical behavior of the surface current density. This ensured fast convergence in terms of the truncation order, but involved numerical evaluation of slowly converging integrals to fill in the coefficient matrix. To overcome this problem, appropriate contributions were pulled out of the kernels of the integrals, which led to integrands transforming into exponentially decaying functions. Subsequently, integrals of the extracted contributions were expressed as linear combinations of fast-converging integrals via the Cauchy integral theorem. As shown in the numerical results section, the proposed technique drastically outperformed the classical analytical asymptotic-acceleration technique.
Neuronal Specialization for Fine-Grained Distance Estimation Using a Real-Time Bio-Inspired Stereo Vision System
Authors: Domínguez-Morales Manuel , Domínguez-Morales Juan P. , Ríos-Navarro Antonio , Cascado-Caballero Daniel , Jiménez-Fernández Ángel , Linares-Barranco Alejandro
Published: December 2019

The human binocular system performs very complex operations in real-time tasks thanks to neuronal specialization and several specialized processing layers. For a classic computer vision system, being able to perform the same operation requires high computational costs that, in many cases, causes it to not work in real time: this is the case regarding distance estimation. This work details the functionality of the biological processing system, as well as the neuromorphic engineering research branch—the main purpose of which is to mimic neuronal processing. A distance estimation system based on the calculation of the binocular disparities with specialized neuron populations is developed. This system is characterized by several tests and executed in a real-time environment. The response of the system proves the similarity between it and human binocular processing. Further, the results show that the implemented system can work in a real-time environment, with a distance estimation error of 15% (8% for the characterization tests).
Open-Source Software for Electromagnetic Scattering Simulation: The Case of Antenna Design
Authors: Fedeli Alessandro , Montecucco Claudio , Gragnani Gian Luigi
Published: December 2019

Electromagnetic scattering simulation is an extremely wide and interesting field, and its continuous evolution is associated with the development of computing resources. Undeniably, antenna design at all levels strongly relies on electromagnetic simulation software. However, despite the large number and the high quality of the available open-source simulation packages, most companies have no doubts about the choice of commercial program suites. At the same time, in the academic world, it is frequent to develop in-house simulation software, even from scratch and without proper knowledge of the existing possibilities. The rationale of the present paper is to review, from a practical viewpoint, the open-source software that can be useful in the antenna design process. To this end, an introductory overview of the usual design workflow is firstly presented. Subsequently, the strengths and weaknesses of open-source software compared to its commercial counterpart are analyzed. After that, the main open-source packages that are currently available online are briefly described. The last part of this paper is devoted to a preliminary numerical benchmark for the assessment of the capabilities and limitations of a subset of the presented open-source programs. The benchmark includes the calculation of some fundamental antenna parameters for four different typologies of radiating elements.
Methodology for Digital Synthesis of Deterministic and Random Jitter Generation on Rising or Falling Edges of Data Pattern
Authors: Ren Nan , Fu Zaiming , Lei Shengcun , Liu Hanglin , Tian Shulin
Published: December 2019

Jitter is becoming an important factor in high-speed serial link and integrated circuits (ICs). Generating controllable jitter plays a crucial role in simulating the test environment of high-data links, evaluating the performance of IC, preventing jitter in high-speed serial link, and even testing the synchronous trigger circuit. In this paper, a digital synthesis for jitter generation and a logical combination method for selecting jitter on the rising edge or falling edge of a data pattern are presented. Precisely controllable jitter is generated by digital synthesis, including sinusoidal period jitter, rectangular period jitter, duty cycle distortion (DCD) jitter, and adjustable random jitter. Additionally, the validity and accuracy of the proposed method were demonstrated by hardware experiments, where the jitter frequency had an accuracy of ±30 ppm and the jitter amplitude had a step of 2 ps.
Model Predictive Control with Binary Quadratic Programming for the Scheduled Operation of Domestic Refrigerators
Authors: Zavvar Sabegh Mohammad Reza , Bingham Chris
Published: December 2019

The rapid proliferation of the ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) now affords the opportunity to schedule the operation of widely distributed domestic refrigerator and freezers to collectively improve energy efficiency and reduce peak power consumption on the electrical grid. To accomplish this, the paper proposes the real-time estimation of the thermal mass of each refrigerator in a network using on-line parameter identification, and the co-ordinated (ON-OFF) scheduling of the refrigerator compressors to maintain their respective temperatures within specified hysteresis bands commensurate with accommodating food safety standards. A custom model predictive control (MPC) scheme is devised using binary quadratic programming to realize the scheduling methodology which is implemented through IoT hardware (based on a NodeMCU). Benefits afforded by the proposed scheme are investigated through experimental trials which show that the co-ordinated operation of domestic refrigerators can i) reduce the peak power consumption as seen from the perspective of the electrical power grid (i.e., peak load levelling), ii) can adaptively control the temperature hysteresis band of individual refrigerators to increase operational efficiency, and iii) contribute to a widely distributed aggregated load shed for demand side response purposes in order to aid grid stability. Importantly, the number of compressor starts per hour for each refrigerator is also bounded as an inherent design feature of the algorithm so as not to operationally overstress the compressors and reduce their lifetime. Experimental trials show that such co-ordinated operation of refrigerators can reduce energy consumption by ~30% whilst also providing peak load levelling, thereby affording benefits to both individual consumers as well as electrical network suppliers.
Classification and Evaluation of Concepts for Improving the Performance of Applied Energy System Optimization Models
Authors: Cao Karl-Kiên , von Krbek Kai , Wetzel Manuel , Cebulla Felix , Schreck Sebastian
Published: December 2019

Energy system optimization models used for capacity expansion and dispatch planning are established tools for decision-making support in both energy industry and energy politics. The ever-increasing complexity of the systems under consideration leads to an increase in mathematical problem size of the models. This implies limitations of today’s common solution approaches especially with regard to required computing times. To tackle this challenge many model-based speed-up approaches exist which, however, are typically only demonstrated on small generic test cases. In addition, in applied energy systems analysis the effects of such approaches are often not well understood. The novelty of this study is the systematic evaluation of several model reduction and heuristic decomposition techniques for a large applied energy system model using real data and particularly focusing on reachable speed-up. The applied model is typically used for examining German energy scenarios and allows expansion of storage and electricity transmission capacities. We find that initial computing times of more than two days can be reduced up to a factor of ten while having acceptable loss of accuracy. Moreover, we explain what we mean by “effectiveness of model reduction” which limits the possible speed-up with shared memory computers used in this study.
An Intelligent Bio-Inspired Cooperative Decoupling Control Strategy for the Marine Boiler-Turbine System with a Novel Energy Dynamic Model
Authors: Liu Sheng , Zhao Baoling , Zhao Shiquan , Zhang Lanyong , Wu Ling
Published: December 2019

This paper presents an intelligent bio-inspired cooperative decoupling control strategy (IBICDC) for the problems of modeling difficulties and strong coupling in the marine boiler-turbine system (MBTS). First, the model of the main steam pressure control loop is successfully constructed by introducing the Martin-Hou equation, which solves the modeling difficulty caused by the complexity of structure, operation mechanism, and operation conditions, as well as the characteristics of nonlinearity, parameter time-varying, and time-delay in the marine boiler (MB). According to the mathematic method of homeomorphic mapping relationship between the rotational speed and the kinetic energy in the marine steam turbine with propeller (MSTP) and the feedback linearization method, the nonlinear degree of the MSTP rotational speed control loop model is reduced and the infinite point of discontinuity in the rotational acceleration when the rotational speed close to 0 is eliminated. Then, the IBICDC inspired by the internal environment regulation mechanism of human body is applied to the strong coupling problem between the two control loops, namely, to eliminate the large value sudden change of the main steam pressure caused by the change of operation conditions. The conventional decoupling methods are also presented. Finally, detailed numerical simulations are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the IBICDC strategy.
Life Cycle Costing and Eco-Efficiency Assessment of Fuel Production by Coprocessing Biomass in Crude Oil Refineries
Authors: Cruz Pedro L. , Iribarren Diego , Dufour Javier
Published: December 2019

Biobased liquid fuels are becoming an attractive alternative to replace, totally or partially, fossil ones in the medium term, mainly in aviation and long-distance transportation. In this regard, coprocessing biomass-derived feedstocks in conventional oil refineries might facilitate the transition from the current fossil-based transport to a biobased one. This article addresses the economic and environmental feasibility of such a coprocessing strategy. The biomass-based feedstocks considered include bio-oil and char from the fast pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass, which are coprocessed in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC), hydrocracking, and/or cogasification units. The assessment was based on the standardized concept of eco-efficiency, which relates the environmental and economic performances of a system following a life-cycle approach. Data from a complete simulation of the refinery process, from raw materials to products, were used to perform a life cycle costing and eco-efficiency assessment of alternative configurations of the coprocessing strategy, which were benchmarked against the conventional fossil refinery system. Among other relevant results, the eco-efficiency related to the system’s carbon footprint was found to improve when considering coprocessing in the hydrocracking unit, while coprocessing in FCC generally worsens the eco-efficiency score. Overall, it is concluded that coprocessing biomass-based feedstock in conventional crude oil refineries could be an eco-efficient energy solution, which requires a careful choice of the units where biofeedstock is fed.
Hybrid Energy Management System for Operation of Wind Farm System Considering Grid-Code Constraints
Authors: Bui Van-Hai , Hussain Akhtar , Lee Woon-Gyu , Kim Hak-Man
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a hybrid energy management system is developed to optimize the operation of a wind farm (WF) by combining centralized and decentralized approaches. A two-stage optimization strategy, including distributed information sharing (stage 1); and centralized optimization (stage 2) is proposed to find out the optimal set-points of wind turbine generators (WTGs) considering grid-code constraints. In stage 1, cluster energy management systems (CEMSs) and transmission system operator (TSO) interact with their neighboring agents to share information using diffusion strategy and then determine the mismatch power amount between the current output power of WF and the required power from TSO. This amount of mismatch power is optimally allocated to all clusters through the CEMSs. In stage 2, a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP)-based optimization model is developed for each CEMS to find out the optimal set-points of WTGs in the corresponding cluster. The CEMSs are responsible for ensuring the operation of WF in accordance with the requirements of TSO (i.e., grid-code constraints) and also minimizing the power deviation for the set-points of WTGs in each cluster. The minimization of power deviation helps to reduce the internal power fluctuations inside each cluster. Finally, to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, several case studies are analyzed in the simulations section for operation of a WF with 20 WTGs in four different clusters.
Natural Gas or Algal Reef: Survey-Based Valuations of Pro-Gas and Pro-Reef Groups Specifically for Policy Advising
Authors: Chen Yun-Ju , Hsu Sheng Ming , Liao Shu-Yi , Chen Tsung-Chi , Tseng Wei-Chun
Published: December 2019

Much energy-related construction causes environmental concern. Sometimes the environmental issue is so huge that it is difficult to make a policy decision even with the assistance of traditional valuation techniques. The third natural gas receiving station at Datan, Taiwan, is one example of this. The construction would be beneficial to energy security, economic development, and particulate matter (PM) 2.5 reduction. However, it would destroy a precious algal reef, which is a habitat for endangered species, biodiversity, and a unique ecological system. Thus, we used willingness-to-pay to show the strength of both pro-energy and pro-ecology opinions specifically to help with decision-making. First, respondents were asked to choose between the gas station and the reef. Then they were asked about their willingness to pay for that choice. We then estimated parametric/nonparametric models—traditional probit, structured probit, and Turnbull—to obtain reliable estimates. We found that the per-person value for pro-gas-station respondents was higher than that for pro-reef respondents, while the percentage of pro-reef respondents was higher than the percentage of pro-gas-station respondents. These results together form a clear policy implication for this case.
Densification and Fuel Properties of Onion Husks
Authors: Obidziński Sławomir , Dołżyńska Magdalena , Kowczyk-Sadowy Małgorzata , Jadwisieńczak Krzysztof , Sobczak Paweł
Published: December 2019

The aim of the described research was to assess the suitability of onion husk waste as a material for the production of solid fuels in the form of granules (pellets). Due to the low susceptibility to thickening of onion husks, the addition of a binder in the form of potato pulp was used (waste with a high starch content). Both wastes were subjected to elemental analysis determining the content of C, H, N, S, Cl, and their HHV (High Heating Value) and LHV (Low Heating Value). Mixtures containing the addition of 10%, 15%, and 20% potato pulp to onion husks were subjected to granulation in a “flat matrix–thickening rollers” operating system at three rotational speeds of the granulator matrix a 170, 220, and 270 rpm. The influence of the potato pulp addition and matrix rotational speed on the quality of the obtained pellet was determined. The highest quality product was combusted in a low-power boiler with a retort grate, and the content of CO, CO2, SO2, NO, and HCl in the exhaust gas was determined. The highest quality granulate was obtained from a mixture containing 10% potato pulp, which was compacted at 170 rpm matrix, where the kinetic strength was 99.50% and the density was about 650 kg·m−3. The results of the combustion emissions from onion husk granules exceed the requirements of the EcoDesign Directive with the greatest being the case of CO.
A Simple Approach of Groundwater Quality Analysis, Classification, and Mapping in Peshawar, Pakistan
Authors: Adnan Syed , Iqbal Javed , Maltamo Matti , Bacha Muhammad Suleman , Shahab Asfandyar , Valbuena Ruben
Published: December 2019

Groundwater is an important source of water for drinking, agriculture, and other household purposes, but high population growth, industrialization, and lack of oversight on environmental policies and implementation have not only degraded the quality but also stressed the quantity of this precious source of water. Many options existed, but this study evaluated, classified, and mapped the quality of groundwater used for potable consumption with a simple approach in an urban area (Peshawar valley) of Pakistan. More than 100 groundwater samples were collected and analyzed for physio-chemical parameters in a laboratory. Hierarchal clustering analysis (HCA) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis were sequentially applied to produce potential clusters/groups (groundwater quality classes), extract the threshold values of the clusters, classify and map the groundwater quality data into meaningful classes, and identify the most critical parameters in the classification. The HCA produced six distinct potential clusters. We found a high correlation of electrical conductivity with t o t a l   h a r d n e s s ( R 2 =   0.72 ), a l k a l i n i t y ( R 2 =   0.59 ) and c h l o r i d e   ( R 2 =   0.64 ) , and, t o t a l   h a r d n e s s with c h l o r i d e ( R 2 = 0.62), and a l k a l i n i t y ( R 2 = 0.51). The CART analysis conclusively identified the threshold values of the six classes and showed that t o t a l   h a r d n e s s was the most critical parameter in the classification. The majority of the groundwater was either with worse quality or good quality, and only a few areas had the worst groundwater quality. This study presents a simple tool for the classification of groundwater quality based on several aesthetic constituents and can assist decision makers develop and support policies and/or regulations to manage groundwater resources.
A Comparative Study of the Effect of Field Retting Time on the Properties of Hemp Fibres Harvested at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Mazian Brahim , Bergeret Anne , Benezet Jean-Charles , Malhautier Luc
Published: December 2019

In this study, the comparison of field retting of hemp fibres harvested at different growth stages (beginning and end of flowering, seed maturity) was studied. Regardless of the harvest period, identical evolution of the fibres’ properties was observed during retting. The main difference is the kinetics of this transformation, which depend on weather conditions and the initial state of the fibres after harvesting. Retting leads to a change in colour of the stems and fibres, an increase of the cellulose fraction and a gradual improvement of the fibres’ thermal stability, in relation with a decrease in the non-cellulosic materials. This process induces fibre bundle separation into elementary fibres. A long period (5 weeks) is required for getting the highest mechanical properties of fibres harvested at the beginning and the end of flowering. However, the retting of fibres harvested at seed maturity has to be performed in a short period (1 week) in order to avoid over-retting treatment. If the fibres are over-retted, their quality decreases in terms of structure and mechanical properties.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Steam-Distilled Essential Oil and Glycosidically Bound Volatiles from Maclura Tricuspidata Fruit
Authors: Yong Gyung-Rim , Gebru Yoseph Asmelash , Kim Dae-Woon , Kim Da-Ham , Han Hyun-Ah , Kim Young-Hoi , Kim Myung-Kon
Published: December 2019

Essential oil obtained from Maclura triscuspidata fruit has been reported to have functional properties. This study aimed at determining chemical compositions and antioxidant activities of steam-distilled essential oil (SDEO) and glycosidically bound aglycone fraction (GBAF) isolated from fully ripe M. triscuspidata fruit. SDEO was isolated by simultaneous steam distillation and extraction (SDE). GBAF was prepared by Amberlite XAD-2 adsorption of methanol extract, followed by methanol elution and enzymatic hydrolysis. Both fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). A total of 76 constituents were identified from both oils. Apart from fatty acids and their esters, the SDEO contained p-cresol in the highest concentration (383.5 ± 17.7), followed by δ-cadinene (147.7 ± 7.7), β-caryophyllene (145.7 ± 10.5), β-ionone (141.0 ± 4.5), n-nonanal (140.3 ± 20.5), theaspirane A (121.3 ± 4.5) and theaspirane B (99.67 ± 9.05 µg/g). Thirteen carotenoid-derived compounds identified in the SDEO are being isolated from M. triscuspidata fruit for the first time. Out of the 22 components identified in GBAF, 14 were present only in the glycosidically bound volatiles. Antioxidant activity of the GBAF was higher than that of SDEO. These results suggest that glycosidically bound volatiles of M. triscuspidata fruit have a good potential as natural antioxidants.
Rural Resident Experience on National Basic Public Health Services: A Cross-Sectional Survey in 10 Western Provinces of China
Authors: Liu Jinlin , Mao Ying
Published: December 2019

National basic public health services (BPHSs) are important for promoting the health of rural populations. A better understanding of rural BPHSs from the viewpoint of residents utilizing the services can help health-related departments and primary health care (PHC) centers further improve rural BPHSs. By conducting a large-scale cross-sectional survey in 10 western provinces of China, the study depicts rural resident experiences with rural BPHSs. Of the 9019 participants, 59.33% and 66.48% did not receive services related to health examinations or health education in the six months prior to the survey, respectively. A total of 56.90% were satisfied with the rural BPHSs, and the mean overall satisfaction score was 3.61 ± 0.908 (out of a maximum of 5). The most satisfying domain for rural residents with BPHSs was the attitude of PHC workers, whereas rural residents with chronic diseases were the least satisfied with the health management. Satisfaction with the attitude of PHC workers was identified as the strongest determinant of rural residents’ overall satisfaction with BPHSs. This study could enlighten rural BPHSs management in China.
Study on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Regimens among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Dan , Tao Hao , Dai Jianghong , Liang Hao , Huang Ailong , Zhong Xiaoni
Published: December 2019

Background: There are limited studies on the medication regimen of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. This study compared the effectiveness of and adherence to two prophylactic HIV medication regimens, which provided evidence and guidance for the application and promotion of the PrEP strategy in the MSM population in China. Methods: We conducted an open, non-randomized, multicenter, parallel, controlled clinical intervention study in western China. Subjects were recruited by convenience sampling at research centers in Chongqing, Guangxi, Xinjiang and Sichuan, China from April 2013 to March 2015, and they were categorized into the daily PrEP, event-driven and blank control groups. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF; 300 mg/dose) was administered to subjects in the daily PrEP and event-driven groups, and all subjects were followed up every 12 weeks for 96 weeks. Demographic, behavioral, psychological characteristics and AIDS-related attitudes were assessed using self-completed questionnaires. TDF serum concentrations in subjects in Chongqing and Sichuan were quantified after systematic sampling. Results: Of the 2422 enrolled MSM, 856 were eligible for statistical analysis (PrEP group: 385 and event-driven group: 471); 30 and 32 subjects in daily PrEP and event-driven groups, respectively, were HIV-positive; the incidence of HIV infection was as follows: daily PrEP group, 6.60 cases/100 person-years and event-driven group, 5.57 cases/100 person-years (relative risk (RR) 95% confidence interval (CI) was 0.844 (0.492–1.449)); HIV incidence did not differ significantly when stratified by medication adherence or sites. When the medication adherence rate was ≥80%, the median TDF serum concentrations were 0.458 mg/L, and 0.429 mg/L in the daily PrEP, and event-driven groups, respectively (not significant; p > 0.05); Subjects who were in the event-driven PrEP group (OR = 2.152, 95% CI: 1.566–2.957), had fewer male sexual partners in the last two weeks (OR = 0.685, 95% CI: 0.563–0.834), were one year older on average (OR = 1.022, 95% CI: 1.002–1.043), considered that medication kept them safe, were less worried about others knowing they took medicine and were more likely to have high adherence. Conclusions: The efficacies of daily TDF and event-driven TDF use were not significantly different in preventing new infections among HIV-negative MSM. Event-driven TDF use is economical and effective and is worth popularizing. Our results provide evidence for the application and promotion of the PrEP strategy in the MSM population in China.
The Effects of Extreme Weather Conditions on Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Market Returns
Authors: Jiang Zhuhua , Kang Sang Hoon , Cheong Chongcheul , Yoon Seong-Min
Published: December 2019

We investigate the impact of extreme weather conditions on the stock market returns of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and Shenzhen Exchange. For the weather conditions, we apply dummy variables generated by applying a moving average and moving standard deviation. Our study provides two interesting results. First, extreme weather conditions have a significant impact on the stock returns of the Shenzhen Exchange, indicating that the Shenzhen market is inefficient. Second, during the pre-QFII period, extreme weather conditions have a strong impact on the returns of the Shenzhen stock market, but the impact is significantly weaker in the period after QFII. This means that the efficiency of the Shenzhen stock market has significantly increased since the QFII program due to the market openness to foreign institutional investors. We emphasize the role of foreign investors not affected by local weather conditions by observing how market opening affects extreme weather impacts on stock market returns.
Circulating Extracellular Vesicles Containing Xenobiotic Metabolizing CYP Enzymes and Their Potential Roles in Extrahepatic Cells Via Cell–Cell Interactions
Authors: Gerth Kelli , Kodidela Sunitha , Mahon Madeline , Haque Sanjana , Verma Neha , Kumar Santosh
Published: December 2019

The cytochrome P450 (CYP) family of enzymes is known to metabolize the majority of xenobiotics. Hepatocytes, powerhouses of CYP enzymes, are where most drugs are metabolized into non-toxic metabolites. Additional tissues/cells such as gut, kidneys, lungs, blood, and brain cells express selective CYP enzymes. Extrahepatic CYP enzymes, especially in kidneys, also metabolize drugs into excretable forms. However, extrahepatic cells express a much lower level of CYPs than hepatocytes. It is possible that the liver secretes CYP enzymes, which circulate via plasma and are eventually delivered to extrahepatic cells (e.g., brain cells). CYP circulation likely occurs via extracellular vesicles (EVs), which carry important biomolecules for delivery to distant cells. Recent studies have revealed an abundance of several CYPs in plasma EVs and other cell-derived EVs, and have demonstrated the role of CYP-containing EVs in xenobiotic-induced toxicity via cell–cell interactions. Thus, it is important to study the mechanism for packaging CYP into EVs, their circulation via plasma, and their role in extrahepatic cells. Future studies could help to find novel EV biomarkers and help to utilize EVs in novel interventions via CYP-containing EV drug delivery. This review mainly covers the abundance of CYPs in plasma EVs and EVs derived from CYP-expressing cells, as well as the potential role of EV CYPs in cell–cell communication and their application with respect to novel biomarkers and therapeutic interventions.
The Role of Zinc in Gliotoxin Biosynthesis of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Seo Hyewon , Kang Suzie , Park Yong-Sung , Yun Cheol-Won
Published: December 2019

Zinc performs diverse physiological functions, and virtually all living organisms require zinc as an essential trace element. To identify the detailed function of zinc in fungal pathogenicity, we carried out cDNA microarray analysis using the model system of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungal pathogen. From microarray analysis, we found that the genes involved in gliotoxin biosynthesis were upregulated when zinc was depleted, and the microarray data were confirmed by northern blot analysis. In particular, zinc deficiency upregulated the expression of GliZ, which encodes a Zn2-Cys6 binuclear transcription factor that regulates the expression of the genes required for gliotoxin biosynthesis. The production of gliotoxin was decreased in a manner inversely proportional to the zinc concentration, and the same result was investigated in the absence of ZafA, which is a zinc-dependent transcription activator. Interestingly, we found two conserved ZafA-binding motifs, 5′-CAAGGT-3′, in the upstream region of GliZ on the genome and discovered that deletion of the ZafA-binding motifs resulted in loss of ZafA-binding activity; gliotoxin production was decreased dramatically, as demonstrated with a GliZ deletion mutant. Furthermore, mutation of the ZafA-binding motifs resulted in an increase in the conidial killing activity of human macrophage and neutrophil cells, and virulence was decreased in a murine model. Finally, transcriptomic analysis revealed that the expression of ZafA and GliZ was upregulated during phagocytosis by macrophages. Taken together, these results suggest that zinc plays an important role in the pathogenicity of A. fumigatus by regulating gliotoxin production during the phagocytosis pathway to overcome the host defense system.
Gain-of-Function Mutant p53: All the Roads Lead to Tumorigenesis
Authors: Stein Yan , Rotter Varda , Aloni-Grinstein Ronit
Published: December 2019

The p53 protein is mutated in about 50% of human cancers. Aside from losing the tumor-suppressive functions of the wild-type form, mutant p53 proteins often acquire inherent, novel oncogenic functions, a phenomenon termed mutant p53 gain-of-function (GOF). A growing body of evidence suggests that these pro-oncogenic functions of mutant p53 proteins are mediated by affecting the transcription of various genes, as well as by protein–protein interactions with transcription factors and other effectors. In the current review, we discuss the various GOF effects of mutant p53, and how it may serve as a central node in a network of genes and proteins, which, altogether, promote the tumorigenic process. Finally, we discuss mechanisms by which “Mother Nature” tries to abrogate the pro-oncogenic functions of mutant p53. Thus, we suggest that targeting mutant p53, via its reactivation to the wild-type form, may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for many cancers that harbor mutant p53. Not only will this strategy abrogate mutant p53 GOF, but it will also restore WT p53 tumor-suppressive functions.
Melatonin-Nitric Oxide Crosstalk and Their Roles in the Redox Network in Plants
Authors: Zhu Ying , Gao Hang , Lu Mengxin , Hao Chengying , Pu Zuoqian , Guo Miaojie , Hou Dairu , Chen Li-Yu , Huang Xuan
Published: December 2019

Melatonin, an amine hormone highly conserved during evolution, has a wide range of physiological functions in animals and plants. It is involved in plant growth, development, maturation, and aging, and also helps ameliorate various types of abiotic and biotic stresses, including salt, drought, heavy metals, and pathogens. Melatonin-related growth and defense responses of plants are complex, and involve many signaling molecules. Among these, the most important one is nitric oxide (NO), a freely diffusing amphiphilic biomolecule that can easily cross the cell membrane, produce rapid signal responses, and participate in a wide variety of physiological reactions. NO-induced S-nitrosylation is also involved in plant defense responses. NO interacts with melatonin as a long-range signaling molecule, and helps regulate plant growth and maintain oxidative homeostasis. Exposure of plants to abiotic stresses causes the increase of endogenous melatonin levels, with the consequent up-regulation of melatonin synthesis genes, and further increase of melatonin content. The application of exogenous melatonin causes an increase in endogenous NO and up-regulation of defense-related transcription factors, resulting in enhanced stress resistance. When plants are infected by pathogenic bacteria, NO acts as a downstream signal to lead to increased melatonin levels, which in turn induces the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade and associated defense responses. The application of exogenous melatonin can also promote sugar and glycerol production, leading to increased levels of salicylic acid and NO. Melatonin and NO in plants can function cooperatively to promote lateral root growth, delay aging, and ameliorate iron deficiency. Further studies are needed to clarify certain aspects of the melatonin/NO relationship in plant physiology.
Betaglycan (TβRIII) is a Key Factor in TGF-β2 Signaling in Prepubertal Rat Sertoli Cells
Authors: Kudipudi Pradeep K , Galuska Sebastian P , Dietze Raimund , Scheiner-Bobis Georgios , Loveland Kate L , Konrad Lutz
Published: December 2019

Transforming growth factor-βs (TGF-βs) signal after binding to the TGF-β receptors TβRI and TβRII. Recently, however, betaglycan (BG) was identified as an important co-receptor, especially for TGF-β2. Both proteins are involved in several testicular functions. Thus, we analyzed the importance of BG for TGF-β1/2 signaling in Sertoli cells with ELISAs, qRT-PCR, siRNA silencing and BrdU assays. TGF-β1 as well as TGF-β2 reduced shedding of membrane-bound BG (mBG), thus reducing the amount of soluble BG (sBG), which is often an antagonist to TGF-β signaling. Treatment of Sertoli cells with GM6001, a matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) inhibitor, also counteracted BG shedding, thus suggesting MMPs to be mainly involved in shedding. Interestingly, TGF-β2 but not TGF-β1 enhanced secretion of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 3 (TIMP3), a potent inhibitor of MMPs. Furthermore, recombinant TIMP3 attenuated BG shedding. Co-stimulation with TIMP3 and TGF-β1 reduced phosphorylation of Smad3, while a combination of TIMP3/TGF-β2 increased it. Silencing of BG as well as TIMP3 reduced TGF-β2-induced phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 significantly, once more highlighting the importance of BG for TGF-β2 signaling. In contrast, this effect was not observed with TIMP3/TGF-β1. Silencing of BG and TIMP3 decreased significantly Sertoli cell proliferation. Taken together, BG shedding serves a major role in TGF-β2 signaling in Sertoli cells.