bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructures and Oxidation Behavior According to Nb:Mo Ratio in a Nb–Mo–Si System with Si Pack Cementation Coatings
Authors: Yang Wonchul , Chung Choong-Heui , Lee Sangyeob , Lee Jong Won , Park Joon Sik
Published: November 2019

Research is being conducted on Mo- and Nb-based alloys that are used in the aerospace sector, including those used for advanced gas turbines and aircraft engines. There is a limit to using Mo, which has a high density among refractory metals, and a few studies exist describing the addition of Nb to Mo–silicide alloys. There is a lack of guidance research on the basic Nb:Mo ratio of alloys, and it is necessary to study how to improve oxidation resistance. Therefore, this study aims to improve oxidation resistance by controlling the ratio of Nb and Mo in (Nbx, Moy)Si2 coating layers with Si pack cementation coatings on Nb–Mo alloys. Static oxidation tests were carried out at 1200 °C for 6 h to confirm the oxidation characteristics. As a result, a SiO2 or SiO2 + Nb2O5 ceramic protective layer was formed on the surface. After the oxidation tests, alloys with a Nb content of less than 35 at.% were found to protect the surface. The ratios of Nb and Mo in the Nb–Mo alloy and silicide coating layer were compared, and the improvement of oxidation resistance is discussed in terms of microstructural evolution.
Modeling the Success of Application-Based Mobile Banking
Authors: Ghobakhloo Morteza , Fathi Masood
Published: November 2019

The present study addresses the issue of mobile banking customer retention by developing and empirically testing a theoretical model that describes the way mobile banking success is achieved. The data collection process was conducted via a web-based questionnaire survey through which 402 usable responses from users of application-based mobile banking services were collected. The data collected were further analyzed via covariance-based structural equation modeling. Results indicate that application-based mobile banking success can be defined in terms of the favorable attitude toward and repeated use of mobile banking applications. Experienced advantage, user satisfaction, and post-use trust toward mobile banking applications are among the critical enablers of application-based mobile banking success. The findings of this research can enable academicians and practitioners, banks, and financial institutions, in particular, to devise the mechanism through which the success of application-based mobile banking services can be facilitated.
A Sequential RFID System for Robust Communication with Underground Carbon Steel Pipes in Oil and Gas Applications
Authors: Vyas Rushi , Tye Bailey
Published: November 2019

The world’s oil and gas is transported using a network of steel pipelines most of which lie underground. The length of this network in the US/Canada alone is 3.5 million kilometers. Keeping track of pipes in such a network for pipeline-health monitoring, maintenance, and logistics is an acute problem faced by pipeline-operators. Recently, radio-frequency-identification tags (RFIDs) have been proposed for tracking pipelines and even for monitoring pipeline health with additional built-in sensors. Low-cost RFID tags are wirelessly powered and battery-less. However, RFIDs do not function optimally in the presence of magnetic carbon steel pipes that are prevalent in the industry. High-frequency wireless signals also attenuate rapidly through wet soils. In this research, the use of passive RFID sensor platforms for interrogating buried pipes up to 1.25 m deep in the LF bands is proposed. Using magnetic-induction-based communication, a test-comparison between conventional full/half duplex (FDX/HDX) and sequential (SEQ) RFID schemes is detailed. Wireless measurements in the presence of an industry-standard ASTM A-53 carbon-steel pipe show a SEQ RFID offering better immunity against magnetic proximity effects of the pipe’s wall with an 8.3 dB (x6.8) improvement over a FDX/HDX RFID operating under similar conditions over a distance of 80–125 cm at which pipes are typically buried.
Air Quality Monitoring Using Assistive Robots for Ambient Assisted Living and Enhanced Living Environments through Internet of Things
Authors: Marques Gonçalo , Pires Ivan Miguel , Miranda Nuno , Pitarma Rui
Published: November 2019

This paper presents iAirBot, an assistive robot for indoor air quality monitoring based on Internet of Things. The system can communicate with occupants and triggers alerts automatically using social networks. The information can be accessed by the caregiver to plan interventions for enhanced living environments in a timely manner. The results are promising, as the proposed architecture presents a cost-effective assistive robot for indoor quality monitoring. It connects several technological fields and knowledge areas, such as ambient assisted living, Internet of Things, wireless sensor networks, social networks, and indoor air quality. When compared to other systems, iAirBot stands out for the modularity and scalability of its sensors network, as well as the use of social networks for information sharing. Therefore, iAirBot is a significant system for enhanced living environments, occupational health, and well-being.
A Graph Theory Method for Identification of a Minimum Breakpoint Set for Directional Relay Coordination
Authors: Matthews Ronald C. , Reno Matthew J. , Summers Adam K.
Published: November 2019

The energy grid becomes more complex with increasing penetration of renewable resources, distributed energy storage, distributed generators, and more diverse loads such as electric vehicle charging stations. The presence of distributed energy resources (DERs) requires directional protection due to the added potential for energy to flow in both directions down the line. Additionally, contingency requirements for critical loads within a microgrid may result in looped or meshed systems. Computation speeds of iterative methods required to coordinate loops are improved by starting with a minimum breakpoint set (MBPS) of relays. A breakpoint set (BPS) is a set of breakers such that, when opened, breaks all loops in a mesh grid creating a radial system. A MBPS is a BPS that consists of the minimum possible number of relays required to accomplish this goal. In this paper, a method is proposed in which a minimum spanning tree is computed to indirectly break all loops in the system, and a set difference is used to identify the MBPS. The proposed method is found to minimize the cardinality of the BPS to achieve a MBPS.
Simulated Annealing Algorithm for Wind Farm Layout Optimization: A Benchmark Study
Authors: Yang Kyoungboo , Cho Kyungho
Published: November 2019

The optimal layout of wind turbines is an important factor in the wind farm design process, and various attempts have been made to derive optimal deployment results. For this purpose, many approaches to optimize the layout of turbines using various optimization algorithms have been developed and applied across various studies. Among these methods, the most widely used optimization approach is the genetic algorithm, but the genetic algorithm handles many independent variables and requires a large amount of computation time. A simulated annealing algorithm is also a representative optimization algorithm, and the simulation process is similar to the wind turbine layout process. However, despite its usefulness, it has not been widely applied to the wind farm layout optimization problem. In this study, a wind farm layout optimization method was developed based on simulated annealing, and the performance of the algorithm was evaluated by comparing it to those of previous studies under three wind scenarios; likewise, the applicability was examined. A regular layout and optimal number of wind turbines, never before observed in previous studies, were obtained and they demonstrated the best fitness values for all the three considered scenarios. The results indicate that the simulated annealing (SA) algorithm can be successfully applied to the wind farm layout optimization problem.
Enhancement of a Short-Term Forecasting Method Based on Clustering and kNN: Application to an Industrial Facility Powered by a Cogenerator
Authors: Vialetto Giulio , Noro Marco
Published: November 2019

In recent years, collecting data is becoming easier and cheaper thanks to many improvements in information technology (IT). The connection of sensors to the internet is becoming cheaper and easier (for example, the internet of things, IOT), the cost of data storage and data processing is decreasing, meanwhile artificial intelligence and machine learning methods are under development and/or being introduced to create values using data. In this paper, a clustering approach for the short-term forecasting of energy demand in industrial facilities is presented. A model based on clustering and k-nearest neighbors (kNN) is proposed to analyze and forecast data, and the novelties on model parameters definition to improve its accuracy are presented. The model is then applied to an industrial facility (wood industry) with contemporaneous demand of electricity and heat. An analysis of the parameters and the results of the model is performed, showing a forecast of electricity demand with an error of 3%.
Coordinated Energy Management for Micro Energy Systems Considering Carbon Emissions Using Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Xing Tong , Lin Hongyu , Tan Zhongfu , Ju Liwei
Published: November 2019

To promote the utilization of distributed resources, this paper proposes a concept of a micro energy system (MES) and its core structure with energy production, conversion, and storage devices. In addition, the effect of demand–response on the operation of a MES is studied. Firstly, based on uncertainties of a MES, a probability distribution model is introduced. Secondly, with the objectives of maximizing operating revenue, and minimizing operational risk and carbon emissions, a multi-objective coordinated dispatching optimization model was constructed. To solve this model, this paper linearizes objective functions and constraints via fuzzy satisfaction theory, then establishes the input–output matrix of the model and calculates the optimal weight coefficients of different objective functions via the rough set method. Next, a comprehensive dispatching optimization model was built. Finally, data from a MES in Longgang commercial park, Shenzhen City, were introduced for a case study, and the results show that: (1) A MES can integrate different types of energy, such as wind, photovoltaics, and gas. A multi-energy cycle is achieved via energy conversion and storage devices, and different energy demands are satisfied. Demand–response from users in a MES achieves the optimization of source–load interaction. (2) The proposed model gives consideration to the multi-objectives of operating revenue, operational risk, and carbon emissions, and its optimal strategy is obtained by using the proposed solution algorithm. (3) Sensitivity analysis results showed that risks can be avoided, to varying degrees, via reasonable setting of confidence. Price-based demand–response and maximum total emission allowances can be used as indirect factors to influence the energy supply structure of a MES. In summary, the proposed model and solution algorithm are effective tools for different decision makers to conceive of dispatching strategies for different interests.
Special Issue on Plasma Processes for Renewable Energy Technologies
Authors: Okubo Masaaki
Published: November 2019

The use of renewable energy is an effective solution to mitigate global warming [...]
Seasonal Emergence and Historical Contaminant Exposure of Cave Myotis (Myotis velifer) in Central Texas and Current Status of the Population
Authors: Land Tarisha A. , Clark Donald R. , Pekins Charles E. , Lacher Thomas E.
Published: November 2019

We examined the emergence patterns of Myotis velifer in central Texas in 2000 and assessed exposure to pesticide residues. We collected and analyzed guano from three caves for pesticide residues. In addition, bat carcasses were sampled from an active colony of cave myotis (Myotis velifer) in Shell Mountain. Organochlorine residue concentrations were highest in guano from the Egypt and Tippit Caves, whereas organophosphate concentrations were highest in Shell Mountain guano. Residue concentrations of organochlorines and metals in guano and carcasses collected from the three caves are considered low and probably of no biological concern. The study was one of very few to demonstrate the presence of OPs, including 18 different detectable compounds in the two most recent samples of bat guano. Comparisons between spring and fall guano samples from Shell Mountain suggest that HCB (hexachlorobenzene), total chlordanes, dieldrin, endrin, endosulfan II, p,p’-DDE (Dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethylene), and o,p’-DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) accumulated while bats were absent from the caves at Fort Hood. Lindane appeared to be the only chemical that increased while the bats were present at the site. Organochlorine concentrations in carcasses were generally lowest in lactating females and higher in nursing juveniles. The pattern of emergence coincides with the peak of agricultural activities, therefore, bats forage at a time when the insect pests are most abundant, but also potential to exposure to agricultural chemicals is highest. The current status of the population, however, remains stable in spite of the history of exposure.
Substitution Effects of NaCl by KCl and CaCl2 on Lipolysis of Salted Meat
Authors: Nachtigall Fabiane M. , Vidal Vitor A. S. , Pyarasani Radha D. , Domínguez Rubén , Lorenzo José M. , Pollonio Marise A. R. , Santos Leonardo S.
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate the reduction and partial substitution effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) by potassium chloride (KCl) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) on lipolysis and lipid oxidation in salted meat aiming at reducing sodium content. To evaluate the effect of different salts on lipid oxidation thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARs) assay was performed along 180 days. Furthermore, ESI-MS/MS and GC analysis were conducted to detect and identify oxidized lipids, volatile compounds and free fatty acids profiles during the meat processing time. Lipid profiles from different salted meat demonstrated that CaCl2 salt have inducted more lipid oxidation when compared to the combination of NaCl and KCl salts, highlighting the implication of CaCl2 on increased lipolysis reactions. Moreover, the obtained results from both the analyses suggest that a combination of NaCl and KCl salts can be a good alternative for reducing the sodium content without compromising the quality of the salted meat.
Determination of Acrylamide in Biscuits by High-Resolution Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry: A Novel Application
Authors: Fernandes Cristiana L. , Carvalho Daniel O. , Guido Luis F.
Published: November 2019

Acrylamide (AA), a molecule which potentially increases the risk of developing cancer, is easily formed in food rich in carbohydrates, such as biscuits, wafers, and breakfast cereals, at temperatures above 120 °C. Thus, the need to detect and quantify the AA content in processed foodstuffs is eminent, in order to delineate the limits and mitigation strategies. This work reports the development and validation of a high-resolution mass spectrometry-based methodology for identification and quantification of AA in specific food matrices of biscuits, by using LC-MS with electrospray ionization and Orbitrap as the mass analyser. The developed analytical method showed good repeatability (RSDr 11.1%) and 3.55 and 11.8 μg kg−1 as limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ), respectively. The choice of multiplexed targeted-SIM mode (t-SIM) for AA and AA-d3 isolated ions provided enhanced detection sensitivity, as demonstrated in this work. Statistical processing of data was performed in order to compare the AA levels with several production parameters, such as time/cooking temperature, placement on the cooking conveyor belt, color, and moisture for different biscuits. The composition of the raw materials was statistically the most correlated factor with the AA content when all samples are considered. The statistical treatment presented herein enables an important prediction of factors influencing AA formation in biscuits contributing to putting in place effective mitigation strategies.
Transcriptome Analysis and Identification of Insecticide Tolerance-Related Genes after Exposure to Insecticide in Sitobion avenae
Authors: Wei Ning , Zhong Yongzhi , Lin Lulu , Xie Minghui , Zhang Guangling , Su Weihua , Li Chuanren , Chen Haoliang
Published: November 2019

Aphids cause serious losses to the production of wheat. The grain aphid, Sitobion avenae, which is the dominant species of aphid in all wheat regions of China, is resistant to a variety of insecticides, including imidacloprid and chlorpyrifos. However, the resistance and mechanism of insecticide tolerance of S. avenae are still unclear. Therefore, this study employed transcriptome analysis to compare the expression patterns of stress response genes under imidacloprid and chlorpyrifos treatment for 15 min, 3 h, and 36 h of exposure. S. avenae adult transcriptome was assembled and characterized first, after which samples treated with insecticides for different lengths of time were compared with control samples, which revealed 60–2267 differentially expressed unigenes (DEUs). Among these DEUs, 31–790 unigenes were classified into 66–786 categories of gene ontology (GO) functional groups, and 24–760 DEUs could be mapped into 54–268 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Finally, 11 insecticide-tolerance-related unigenes were chosen to confirm the relative expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in each treatment. Most of the results between qRT-PCR and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) are well-established. The results presented herein will facilitate molecular research investigating insecticide resistance in S. avenae, as well as in other wheat aphids.
Non-Linear Analysis of Inter-Story Pounding between Wood-Framed Buildings during Ground Motion
Authors: Migda Wojciech , Szczepański Marcin , Lasowicz Natalia , Jakubczyk-Gałczyńska Anna , Jankowski Robert
Published: November 2019

Pounding between adjacent buildings during ground motion may result in structural damage or lead to total destruction of structures. The research on the phenomenon has recently been much advanced; however, the analyses have been carried out only for concrete, steel, and masonry structures, while pounding between wooden buildings has not been studied so far. The aim of this paper is to show the results of detailed non-linear seismic analysis of inter-story pounding between the wood-framed buildings modelled by using the finite element method. Firstly, the modal analysis of the structures was conducted. Then, the detailed non-linear analysis of earthquake-induced collisions between two wood-framed buildings of different heights was carried out. The results of the analysis indicate that the behavior of both structures in the longitudinal as well as in the transverse direction is significantly influenced by interactions. The response of the taller building is increased in both directions. On the other hand, the response of the lower building is decreased in the longitudinal direction, while it is increased in the transverse one. The results of the study presented in the paper indicate that, due to deformability of buildings made of wood, structural interactions may change their responses much more, as compared to steel, reinforced concrete, or masonry structures.
Evaluation of The Seismic Hazard in The Marmara Region (Turkey) Based on Updated Databases
Authors: Şeşetyan Karin , Demircioğlu Tümsa Mine Betül , Akinci Aybige
Published: November 2019

The increase in the wealth of information on the seismotectonic structure of the Marmara region after two devastating earthquakes (M7.6 Izmit and M7.2 Duzce events) in the year 1999 opened the way for the reassessment of the probabilistic seismic hazard in the light of new datasets. In this connection, the most recent findings and outputs of different national and international projects concerning seismicity and fault characterization in terms of geometric and kinematic properties are exploited in the present study to build an updated seismic hazard model. A revised fault segmentation model, alternative earthquake rupture models under a Poisson and renewal assumptions, as well as recently derived global and regional ground motion prediction equations (GMPEs) are put together in the present model to assess the seismic hazard in the region. Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) is conducted based on characteristic earthquake modelling for the fault segments capable of producing large earthquakes and smoothed seismicity modelling for the background smaller magnitude earthquake activity. The time-independent and time-dependent seismic hazard results in terms of spatial distributions of three ground-shaking intensity measures (peak ground acceleration, PGA, and 0.2 s and 1.0 s spectral accelerations (SA) on rock having 10% and 2% probabilities of exceedance in 50 years) as well as the corresponding hazard curves for selected cities are shown and compared with previous studies.
“It’s Just a Matter of Form”: Edna St. Vincent Millay’s Experiments with Masculinity
Authors: Parker Sarah
Published: November 2019

Edna St. Vincent Millay occupies an uncomfortable position in relation to modernism. In the majority of criticism, her work is considered the antithesis to modernist experimentation: as representative of the ‘rearguard’ that rejected vers libre in favour of fixed poetic forms. Indeed, most critics concur that whilst Millay’s subject matter may have been modern and daring—voicing women’s sexual independence, for instance—her form was decidedly traditional. Millay also troubles notions of modernist impersonality by writing seemingly autobiographical lyrics that showcase feminine emotions. In this paper, I aim to challenge this view of Millay by focussing on the two avant-garde works that mark the outset and the zenith of her career: Aria da Capo (1921) and Conversation at Midnight (1937). These works are both formally innovative, blurring the boundaries between poetry and drama, causing Edmund Wilson to complain that Millay had “gone to pieces”. Moreover, both works engage in performances of masculinity, with women all but absent. Aria da Capo, first performed by the Provincetown Players in 1919, dramatizes the conflict between two shepherds as an allegory for the First World War. Conversation ventriloquises an all-male dinner party, ranging through the political issues of the Depression era and foreshadowing the war to come. I use both works to argue that Millay has a more interesting relationship to masculinity and modernism than has been hitherto captured by critics. Millay voices men in innovative ways, radically challenging constructions of both gender and poetic form in the process.
“It Isn’t Race or Nation Governs Movement”: New Writers’ Press and the Transnational Scope of Irish Experimental Poetry in the 1960s and 1970s
Authors: Fleming Will
Published: November 2019

In this paper, I seek to contribute to the resurrection from critical obscurity of an overlooked tradition in contemporary Irish poetry: namely, that of small-press poetic experimentalism. Taking as a case study the Dublin-based New Writers’ Press (NWP, established 1967), I will interrogate the absence of virtually any mention of small Irish experimental presses in critical narratives of late modernist poetry of the British Isles in the 1960s and 1970s. By using an array of insights gleaned from the many letters, typescripts and other ephemera in the NWP archive housed at the National Library of Ireland, such absences in scholarship are explored in the context of what the press’ founding editors faced in navigating the small Irish poetry market of the mid-twentieth century. Through this archival lens, the reasons why a cohesive avant-garde network of British and Irish poetic experimentalists never materialised are analysed, and an argument for how Irish poetic experiments of the last half century have not received anywhere near the same degree of critical attention as those of their British counterparts will emerge. In the first half of this paper, I focus on the Irish commercial poetry scene in the 1950s and 1960s, ultimately illustrating how narrow and competitive it was in comparison to the British market, as well as the peculiar individual context of an Irish campus magazine, Trinity College’s Icarus (1950-). This will in turn suggest that the absence of presses such as NWP from critical accounts of late modernist poetic experimentalism may well be due to editorial decisions made by those Irish presses themselves. In the second half of this paper, I foreground some important archival evidence to review a number of instances in NWP’s history in which it comes close to forging alliances with presses within the more cohesive British experimental scene, though it never manages to do so. Drawing on this evidence, I present an archival basis for counterarguments to the possible conclusion that the responsibility for the general absence of Irish presses from narratives of small-press experimentalism lies with those Irish presses themselves.
Urinary Dialkylphosphate Metabolite Levels in US Adults—National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2008
Authors: Gillezeau Christina , Alpert Naomi , Joshi Priyanka , Taioli Emanuela
Published: November 2019

Background: Urinary dialkylphosphate metabolites are considered to be a proxy of the cumulative exposure to organophosphorus pesticides. We analyzed the urinary levels of six dialkylphosphate (DAP) metabolites in US adults, to assess the factors associated with levels of urinary metabolites, and observe the time trends. Methods: We analyzed the combined urinary levels of Dimethylphosphate (DMP), Diethylphosphate (DEP), Dimethylthiophosphate (DMTP), Diethylthiophosphate (DETP), Dimethyldithiophosphate (DMDTP), and Diethyldithiophosphate (DEDTP) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 and 2008. Results: Increased age and female gender were positively associated with combined levels of urinary DAP metabolites; BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, BMI > 25 kg/m2, current smoking, and later survey year were inversely associated with combined levels of DAP metabolites. Among those with at least one detectable DAP in their urine, the mean levels decreased starting in 2001, but stayed relatively stable through 2008. Although the maximum combined urinary DAP level was highest in 1999–2000, throughout all years, we observed extremely high levels of exposure for subgroups of individuals. Conclusion: Despite the fact that organophosphorus pesticides were banned for residential use in the US in 2006, there are still opportunities for exposure in the general population. The average urinary DAP levels have decreased over time; however, the decline appears to have plateaued in recent years, and there remains highly exposed individuals.
Hospital and Patient Characteristics Regarding the Place of Death of Hospitalized Impending Death Patients: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Yeh Shin-Ting , Ng Yee-Yung , Wu Shiao-Chi
Published: November 2019

Objectives: To explore the influence of hospital and patient characteristics on deaths at home among inpatients facing impending death. Method: In this historical cohort study, 95,626 inpatients facing impending death from 362 hospitals in 2011 were recruited. The dependent variable was the place of death. The independent variables were the characteristics of the hospitals and the patients. A two-level hierarchical generalized linear model was used. Results: In total, 41.06% of subjects died at home. The hospital characteristics contributed to 29.25% of the total variation of the place of death. Private hospitals (odds ratio [OR] = 1.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00–1.75), patients >65 years old (OR = 1.48, 95% CI. = 1.42–1.54), married (OR = 3.15, 95% CI. = 2.93–3.40) or widowed (OR = 3.39, 95% CI. = 3.12–3.67), from near-poor households (OR = 5.16, 95% CI. = 4.57–5.84), having diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.79, 95% CI. = 1.65–1.94), and living in a subcounty (OR = 2.27, 95% CI. = 2.16–2.38) were all risk factors for a death at home. Conclusion: Both hospital and patient characteristics have an effect of deaths at home among inpatients facing impending death. The value of the inpatient mortality rate as a major index of hospital accreditation should be interpreted intrinsically with the rate of deaths at home.
Targeting Tumor Endothelial Cells with Nanoparticles
Authors: Sakurai Yu , Akita Hidetaka , Harashima Hideyoshi
Published: November 2019

Because angiogenesis is a major contributor to cancer progression and metastasis, it is an attractive target for cancer therapy. Although a diverse number of small compounds for anti-angiogenic therapy have been developed, severe adverse effects commonly occur, since small compounds can affect not only tumor endothelial cells (TECs), but also normal endothelial cells. This low selectivity for TECs has motivated researchers to develop alternate types of drug delivery systems (DDSs). In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge concerning the delivery of nano DDSs to TECs. Their payloads range from small compounds to nucleic acids. Perspectives regarding new therapeutic targets are also mentioned.
Exploring Frequencies of Circulating Specific Th17 Cells against Myeloperoxidase and Proteinase 3 in ANCA Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Martinez Valenzuela Laura , Draibe Juliana , Quero Maria , Fulladosa Xavier , Cruzado Josep Maria , Bestard Oriol , Torras Juan
Published: November 2019

Background: The role of the T helper 17 (Th17) cell subset in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (ANCA) associated vasculitis (AAV) is controversial. We hypothesized that a specific Th17 response to myeloperoxidase (MPO) or proteinase 3 (PR3) is detectable in AAV patients and is different among the disease phases. Methods: We analyzed 43 AAV patients with renal involvement (21 acute and 22 remission patients), and 12 healthy controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cultured with PR3/MPO over 48 h. Thereafter, frequencies of MPO/PR3-specific Th17 cells were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) assay. Supernatant IL-17 concentration was quantified using ELISA. Finally, specific Th17 response after depletion of T regulatory lymphocytes (T-regs) in some remission patients was compared to the non T-reg-depleted response. Results: Specific Th17 cell number was higher in acute patients compared to remission (p = 0.004). Specific Th17 cell number performed well in the disease activity detection (ROC curve area under the curve (AUC) = 0.87; p = 0.0001) with an optimal cut-off of 6 spots/million. Patients above this cut-off showed higher serum creatinine (p = 0.004), C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.001) and ANCA titer (p = 0.032). Supernatant IL-17 concentration was higher in acute patients compared to remission (p = 0.035) and did not normalize to healthy control levels (p = 0.01). Conclusions: A specific Th17 cell response is present in AAV patients. This response is more pronounced in the acute phase, but persists in remission.
Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling Pathway in Colorectal Cancer and Its Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Itatani Yoshiro , Kawada Kenji , Sakai Yoshiharu
Published: November 2019

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is one of the important cellular pathways that play key roles for tissue maintenance. In particular, it is important in the context of inflammation and tumorigenesis by modulating cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and homeostasis. TGF-β receptor type 2 (TGFBR2) mutations affected by a mismatch repair deficiency causes colorectal cancers (CRCs) with microsatellite instability, which is, however, associated with relatively better survival rates. On the other hand, loss of SMAD4, a transcription factor in the TGF-β superfamily signaling, promotes tumor progression. Loss of heterozygosity on chromosome 18 can case SMAD4-deficient CRC, which results in poorer patients’ survival. Such bidirectional phenomenon driven by TGF-β signaling insufficiency reflects the complexity of this signaling pathway in CRC. Moreover, recent understanding of CRC at the molecular level (consensus molecular subtype classification) provides deep insight into the important roles of TGF-β signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Here we focus on the TGF-β signaling in CRC and its interaction with the tumor microenvironment. We summarize the molecular mechanisms of CRC tumorigenesis and progression caused by disruption of TGF-β signaling by cancer epithelial cells and host stromal cells.
Radiation-Stimulated Translocation of CD166 and CRYAB to the Endothelial Surface Provides Potential Vascular Targets on Irradiated Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: McRobb Lucinda S. , McKay Matthew J. , Gauden Andrew J. , Lee Vivienne S. , Subramanian Sinduja , Thomas Santhosh George , Wiedmann Markus K. H. , Moutrie Vaughan , Grace Michael , Zhao Zhenjun , Molloy Mark P. , Stoodley Marcus A.
Published: November 2019

Vascular targeting with pro-thrombotic antibody-conjugates is a promising biological treatment for brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs). However, targeted drug delivery relies on the identification of unique or overexpressed markers on the surface of a target cell. In the absence of inherent biological markers, stereotactic radiosurgery may be used to prime induction of site-specific and targetable molecular changes on the endothelial surface. To investigate lumen-accessible, endothelial targets induced by radiation, we combined Gamma knife surgery in an AVM animal model with in vivo biotin-labeling and comparative proteomics. Two proteins, αB-crystallin (CRYAB)—a small heat shock protein that normally acts as an intracellular chaperone to misfolded proteins—and activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule CD166, were further validated for endothelial surface expression after irradiation. Immunostaining of endothelial cells in vitro and rat AVM tissue ex vivo confirmed de novo induction of CRYAB following irradiation (20 Gy). Western analysis demonstrated that CRYAB accumulated intracellularly as a 20 kDa monomer, but, at the cell surface, a novel 65 kDa protein was observed, suggesting radiation stimulates translocation of an atypical CRYAB isoform. In contrast, CD166 had relatively high expression in non-irradiated cells, localized predominantly to the lateral surfaces. Radiation increased CD166 surface exposure by inducing translocation from intercellular junctions to the apical surface without significantly altering total protein levels. These findings reinforce the dynamic molecular changes induced by radiation exposure, particularly at the cell surface, and support further investigation of radiation as a priming mechanism and these molecules as putative targets for focused drug delivery in irradiated tissue.
Telomere Maintenance in Pediatric Cancer
Authors: Ackermann Sandra , Fischer Matthias
Published: November 2019

Telomere length has been proposed as a biomarker of biological age and a risk factor for age-related diseases and cancer. Substantial progress has been made in recent decades in understanding the complex molecular relationships in this research field. However, the majority of telomere studies have been conducted in adults. The data on telomere dynamics in pediatric cancers is limited, and interpretation can be challenging, especially in cases where results are contrasting to those in adult entities. This review describes recent advances in the molecular characterization of structure and function of telomeres, regulation of telomerase activity in cancer pathogenesis in general, and highlights the key advances that have expanded our views on telomere biology in pediatric cancer, with special emphasis on the central role of telomere maintenance in neuroblastoma. Furthermore, open questions in the field of telomere maintenance research are discussed in the context of recently published literature.
Cytosolic Acidification Is the First Transduction Signal of Lactoferrin-Induced Regulated Cell Death Pathway
Authors: Andrés María T. , Acosta-Zaldívar Maikel , González-Seisdedos Jessica , Fierro José F.
Published: November 2019

In yeast, we reported the critical role of K+-efflux for the progress of the regulated cell death (RCD) induced by human lactoferrin (hLf), an antimicrobial protein of the innate immune system that blocks Pma1p H+-ATPase. In the present study, the K+ channel Tok1p was identified as the K+ channel-mediating K+-efflux, as indicated by the protective effect of extracellular K+ (≥30 mM), K+-channel blockers, and the greater hLf-resistance of TOK1-disrupted strains. K+-depletion was necessary but not sufficient to induce RCD as inferred from the effects of valinomycin, NH4Cl or nigericin which released a percentage of K+ similar to that released by lactoferrin without affecting cell viability. Cytosolic pH of hLf-treated cells decreased transiently (~0.3 pH units) and its inhibition prevented the RCD process, indicating that cytosolic acidification was a necessary and sufficient triggering signal. The blocking effect of lactoferrin on Pma1p H+-ATPase caused a transitory decrease of cytosolic pH, and the subsequent membrane depolarization activated the voltage-gated K+ channel, Tok1p, allowing an electrogenic K+-efflux. These ionic events, cytosolic accumulation of H+ followed by K+-efflux, constituted the initiating signals of this mitochondria-mediated cell death. These findings suggest, for the first time, the existence of an ionic signaling pathway in RCD.
Soil Microarthropods and Soil Health: Intersection of Decomposition and Pest Suppression in Agroecosystems
Authors: Neher Deborah , Barbercheck Mary
Published: November 2019

Two desirable functions of healthy soil are nutrient cycling and pest suppression. We review relevant literature on the contributions of soil microarthropods to soil health through their intersecting roles in decomposition and nutrient cycling and direct and indirect suppression of plant pests. Microarthropods can impact soil and plant health directly by feeding on pest organisms or serving as alternate prey for larger predatory arthropods. Indirectly, microarthropods mediate the ability of crop plants to resist or tolerate insect pests and diseases by triggering induced resistance and/or contributing to optimal nutritional balance of plants. Soil fauna, including microarthropods, are key regulators of decomposition at local scales but their role at larger scales is unresolved. Future research priorities include incorporating multi-channel omnivory into food web modeling and understanding the vulnerability of soil carbon through global climate change models.
Translational Insights into Extremely Low Frequency Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (ELF-PEMFs) for Bone Regeneration after Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Ehnert Sabrina , Schröter Steffen , Aspera-Werz Romina H. , Eisler Wiebke , Falldorf Karsten , Ronniger Michael , Nussler Andreas K.
Published: November 2019

The finding that alterations in electrical potential play an important role in the mechanical stimulation of the bone provoked hype that noninvasive extremely low frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields (ELF-PEMF) can be used to support healing of bone and osteochondral defects. This resulted in the development of many ELF-PEMF devices for clinical use. Due to the resulting diversity of the ELF-PEMF characteristics regarding treatment regimen, and reported results, exposure to ELF-PEMFs is generally not among the guidelines to treat bone and osteochondral defects. Notwithstanding, here we show that there is strong evidence for ELF-PEMF treatment. We give a short, confined overview of in vitro studies investigating effects of ELF-PEMF treatment on bone cells, highlighting likely mechanisms. Subsequently, we summarize prospective and blinded studies, investigating the effect of ELF-PEMF treatment on acute bone fractures and bone fracture non-unions, osteotomies, spinal fusion, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. Although these studies favor the use of ELF-PEMF treatment, they likewise demonstrate the need for more defined and better controlled/monitored treatment modalities. However, to establish indication-oriented treatment regimen, profound knowledge of the underlying mechanisms in the sense of cellular pathways/events triggered is required, highlighting the need for more systematic studies to unravel optimal treatment conditions.
A Computational Investigation of Storm Impacts on Estuary Morphodynamics
Authors: Yin Yunzhu , Karunarathna Harshinie , Reeve Dominic E.
Published: November 2019

Global climate change drives sea level rise and changes to extreme weather events, which can affect morphodynamics of coastal and estuary systems around the world. In this paper, a 2D process-based numerical model is used to investigate the combined effects of future mean sea level and storm climate variabilities on morphological change of an estuary. Morphodynamically complex, meso-tidal Deben Estuary, located in the Suffolk at the east coast of the UK is selected as our case study site. This estuary has experienced very dynamic behaviors in history thus it might be sensitive to the future climate change. A statistical analysis of future storms around this area, derived from a global wave model, has shown a slight increase of storm wave heights and storm occurrences around the estuary in future as a result of global climate variations under medium emission scenario. By using a process-based model and by combining the forecast ‘end-of-century’ mean sea level with statistically derived storm conditions using projected storms over a time slice between 2075–2099, we determined hydrodynamic forcing for future morphodynamic modelling scenarios. It is found that the effect of increased sea level combined with future storms can significantly alter the current prevailing morphodynamic regime of the Deben Estuary thus driving it into a less stable system. It is also found that storm waves can be very significant to morphodynamic evolution of this tide-dominated estuary.
Feasibility of a mHealth Approach to Nutrition Counseling in an Appalachian State
Authors: Olfert Melissa D. , Barr Makenzie L. , Hagedorn Rebecca L. , Long Dustin M. , Haggerty Treah S. , Weimer Mathew , Golden Joseph , Maurer Mary Ann , Cochran Jill D. , Hendershot Tracy , Whanger Stacey L. , Mason Jay D. , Hodder Sally L.
Published: November 2019

West Virginia is a rural state with an aging population that may experience barriers to accessing nutritional and lifestyle counseling. This study examined feasibility of an online personalized nutrition tracking application, Good Measures (GM), with patients at seven health care clinics throughout the state. Fourteen healthcare providers and 64 patients 18 years or older with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 and access to the Internet were recruited for this 12-week feasibility study. Patient participants logged meals and exercise into the GM application via smart phone, tablet, or computer and virtually engaged with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in one-on-one sessions. The primary endpoint was to examine feasibility of the program by usage of the application and feedback questions regarding the benefits and challenges of the application. Participants were predominately white (92%) and female (76%). Minimal improvements in weight and systolic blood pressure were found. Participant attitude survey data declined from 4-weeks to 12-weeks of the intervention. Interestingly though, patients in a rural clinic had lesser declines in attitudes than peri-urban participants. Qualitative feedback data identified participants predominately had a positive overall feeling toward the approach. Participants expressed favorability of RDN access, the variety of foods, but did give suggestions for in-person meetings and more updating of the application. Implementing a technology approach to nutrition in rural areas of West Virginia using a mobile application with RDN access may be one strategy to address public health issues such as obesity.
8-(Pyrimidin-2-yl)-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-heptathiazocane
Authors: Ogurtsov Vladimir A. , Rakitin Oleg A.
Published: November 2019

Heptasulfur imides substituted by hereterocycle may be of interest as biologically active compounds. In this communication, the reaction of pyrimidin-2-amine 1 with disulfur dichloride was carefully investigated to give 8-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-heptathiazocane in good yield. The structure of the newly synthesized compound was established by means of elemental analysis, high resolution mass-spectrometry, 1H, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy and mass-spectrometry.
Evaluation of Marine Diindolinonepyrane in Vitro and in Vivo: Permeability Characterization in Caco-2 Cells Monolayer and Pharmacokinetic Properties in Beagle Dogs
Authors: Ma Zibin , Guo Ruihua , Elango Jeevithan , Bao Bin , Wu Wenhui
Published: November 2019

A marine fibrinolytic compound was studied for use in thrombolytic therapy. Firstly, the absorption and transportation characteristics of 2,5-BHPA (2,5-BHPA:2,5-Bis-[8-(4,8-dimethyl-nona-3,7-dienyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-8-methyl-3-keto-1,2,7,8-tertahydro-6H-pyran[a]isoindol-2-yl]-pentanoic acid, a novel pyran-isoindolone derivative with bioactivity isolated from a rare marine microorganism in our laboratory) in the human Caco-2 cells monolayer model were investigated. We collected 2,5-BHPA in the cells to calculate the total recovery, and its concentration was analyzed by LC/MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrum/Mass Spectrum). The results showed that 2,5-BHPA has low permeability and low total recoveries in the Caco-2 cells membrane. Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of 2,5-BHPA were investigated in beagle dogs using HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) after intravenous administration of three different doses (7.5, 5.0, 2.5 mg·kg−1). Pharmacokinetic data indicated that 2,5-BHPA fitted well to a two-compartment model. Elimination half-lives (T1/2) were 49 ± 2, 48 ± 2, and 49 ± 2 min, respectively; the peak concentrations (Cmax) were 56.48 ± 6.23, 48.63 ± 5.53, and 13.64 ± 2.76 μg·mL−1, respectively; clearance rates (CL) were 0.0062 ± 0.0004, 0.0071 ± 0.0008, and 0.0092 ±0.0006 L·min−1·kg−1, respectively; mean retention times (MRT) were 28.17 ± 1.16, 26.23 ± 0.35, and 28.66 ± 0.84 min, respectively. The low penetrability of 2,5-BHPA indicated that the intravenous route of administration is more appropriate than the oral route. Meanwhile, 2,5-BHPA showed a good pharmacokinetic profile in beagle dogs. The tissue distribution showed that 2,5-BHPA could quickly distribute into the heart, intestines, liver, stomach, spleen, lungs, testicles, urine, intestine, kidneys, brain, and feces. The concentration of 2,5-BHPA was higher in the liver and bile. Interestingly, 2,5-BHPA was detected in the brain. Taken together, the above results suggested that our work might be beneficial in the development of agents for thrombolytic treatment.