bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CNT Parameterization Based on the Observed INP Concentration during Arctic Summer Campaigns in a Marine Environment
Authors: Cirisan Ana , Girard Eric , Blanchet Jean-Pierre , Keita Setigui Aboubacar , Gong Wanmin , Irish Vickie , Bertram Allan K.
Published: August 2020

Aerosol–cloud interactions present a large source of uncertainties in atmospheric and climate models. One of the main challenges to simulate ice clouds is to reproduce the right ice nucleating particle concentration. In this study, we derive a parameterization for immersion freezing according to the classical nucleation theory. Our objective was to constrain this parameterization with observations taken over the Canadian Arctic during the Amundsen summer 2014 and 2016 campaigns. We found a linear dependence of contact angle and temperature. Using this approach, we were able to reproduce the scatter in ice nucleated particle concentrations within a factor 5 of observed values with a small negative bias. This parameterization would be easy to implement in climate and atmospheric models, but its representativeness has to first be validated against other datasets.
Airborne Aerosols and Human Health: Leapfrogging from Mass Concentration to Oxidative Potential
Authors: Molina Carolina , Toro A. Richard , Manzano Carlos , Canepari Silvia , Massimi Lorenzo , Leiva-Guzmán Manuel.
Published: August 2020

The mass concentration of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) has been systematically used in epidemiological studies as an indicator of exposure to air pollutants, connecting PM concentrations with a wide variety of human health effects. However, these effects can be hardly explained by using one single parameter, especially because PM is formed by a complex mixture of chemicals. Current research has shown that many of these adverse health effects can be derived from the oxidative stress caused by the deposition of PM in the lungs. The oxidative potential (OP) of the PM, related to the presence of transition metals and organic compounds that can induce the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), could be a parameter to evaluate these effects. Therefore, estimating the OP of atmospheric PM would allow us to evaluate and integrate the toxic potential of PM into a unique parameter, which is related to emission sources, size distribution and/or chemical composition. However, the association between PM and particle-induced toxicity is still largely unknown. In this commentary article, we analyze how this new paradigm could help to deal with some unanswered questions related to the impact of atmospheric PM over human health.
Co-Microencapsulation of Islets and MSC CellSaics, Mosaic-Like Aggregates of MSCs and Recombinant Peptide Pieces, and Therapeutic Effects of Their Subcutaneous Transplantation on Diabetes
Authors: Mochizuki Yusuke , Kogawa Ryo , Takegami Ryuta , Nakamura Kentaro , Wakabayashi Akira , Ito Tadashi , Yoshioka Yasuhiro
Published: August 2020

The subcutaneous transplantation of microencapsulated islets has been extensively studied as a therapeutic approach for type I diabetes. However, due to the lower vascular density and strong inflammatory response in the subcutaneous area, there have been few reports of successfully normalized blood glucose levels. To address this issue, we developed mosaic-like aggregates comprised of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and recombinant peptide pieces called MSC CellSaics, which provide a continuous release of angiogenic factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Our previous report revealed that the diabetes of immunodeficient diabetic model mice was reversed by the subcutaneous co-transplantation of the MSC CellSaics and rat islets. In this study, we focused on the development of immune-isolating microcapsules to co-encapsulate the MSC CellSaics and rat islets, and their therapeutic efficiency via subcutaneous transplantation into immunocompetent diabetic model mice. As blood glucose level was monitored for 28 days following transplantation, the normalization rate of the new immuno-isolating microcapsules was confirmed to be significantly higher than those of the microcapsules without the MSC CellSaics, and the MSC CellSaics transplanted outside the microcapsules (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the number of islets required for the treatment was reduced. In the stained sections, a larger number/area of blood vessels was observed around the new immuno-isolating microcapsules, which suggests that angiogenic factors secreted by the MSC CellSaics through the microcapsules function locally for their enhanced efficacy.
Effect of Maternal Retinol Status at Time of Term Delivery on Retinol Placental Concentration, Intrauterine Transfer Rate, and Newborn Retinol Status
Authors: Thoene Melissa , Haskett Haley , Furtado Jeremy , Thompson Maranda , Van Ormer Matthew , Hanson Corrine , Anderson-Berry Ann
Published: August 2020

Retinol (vitamin A) is essential, so the objective of this Institutional Review Board approved study is to evaluate retinol placental concentration, intrauterine transfer, and neonatal status at time of term delivery between cases of maternal retinol adequacy, insufficiency, and deficiency in a United States population. Birth information and biological samples were collected for mother–infant dyads (n = 260). Maternal and umbilical cord blood retinol concentrations (n = 260) were analyzed by HPLC and categorized: deficient (≤0.7 umol/L), insufficient (>0.7–1.05 umol/L), adequate (>1.05 umol/L). Intrauterine transfer rate was calculated: (umbilical cord blood retinol concentration/maternal retinol concentration) × 100. Non-parametric statistics used include Spearman’s correlations, Mann–Whitney U, and Kruskal–Wallis tests. p-values <0.05 were statistically significant. Only 51.2% of mothers were retinol adequate, with 38.4% insufficient, 10.4% deficient. Only 1.5% of infants were retinol adequate. Placental concentrations (n = 73) differed between adequate vs. deficient mothers (median 0.13 vs. 0.10 μg/g; p = 0.003). Umbilical cord blood concentrations were similar between deficient, insufficient, and adequate mothers (0.61 vs. 0.55 vs. 0.57 μmol/L; p = 0.35). Intrauterine transfer increased with maternal deficiency (103.4%) and insufficiency (61.2%) compared to adequacy (43.1%), p < 0.0001. Results indicate that intrauterine transfer rate is augmented in cases of maternal retinol inadequacy, leading to similar concentrations in umbilical cord blood at term delivery.
Effects of Various Doses of Caffeine Ingestion on Intermittent Exercise Performance and Cognition
Authors: Wang Cuicui , Zhu Yuechuan , Dong Cheng , Zhou Zigui , Zheng Xinyan
Published: August 2020

To date, no study has examined the effects of caffeine on prolonged intermittent exercise performance that imitates certain team-sports, and the suitable concentration of caffeine for improved intermittent exercise performance remains elusive. The purpose of the present cross-over, double-blind preliminary study was to investigate effects of low, moderate, and high doses of caffeine ingestion on intermittent exercise performance and cognition. Ten males performed a familiarization session and four experimental trials. Participants ingested capsules of placebo or caffeine (3, 6, or 9 mg/kg) at 1 h before exercise, rested quietly, and then performed cycling for 2 × 30 min. The cycling protocol consisted of maximal power pedaling for 5 s (mass × 0.075 kp) every minute, separated by unloaded pedaling for 25 s and rest for 30 s. At pre-ingestion of capsules, 1 h post-ingestion, and post-exercise, participants completed the Stroop task. The mean power-output (MPO), peak power-output (PPO), and response time (RT) in the Stroop task were measured. Only 3 mg/kg of caffeine had positive effects on the mean PPO and MPO; 3 mg/kg caffeine decreased RTs significantly in the incongruent and congruent conditions. These results indicate that the ingestion of low-dose caffeine had greater positive effects on the participants’ physical strength during prolonged intermittent exercise and cognition than moderate- or high-dose caffeine.
ZMPSTE24 Is Associated with Elevated Inflammation and Progerin mRNA
Authors: Messner Moritz , Ghadge Santhosh Kumar , Maurer Thomas , Graber Michael , Staggl Simon , Christine Maier Sarah , Pölzl Gerhard , Zaruba Marc-Michael
Published: August 2020

Lamins are important filaments forming the inner nuclear membrane. Lamin A is processed by zinc metalloproteinase (ZMPSTE24). Failure to cleave a truncated form of prelamin A—also called progerin—causes Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome a well-known premature aging disease. Minor levels of progerin are readily expressed in the blood of healthy individuals due to alternative splicing. Previously, we found an association of increased progerin mRNA with overweight and chronic inflammation (hs-CRP). Here, we aimed to elucidate correlations of ZMPSTE24, lamin A/C and progerin with the inflammatory marker hs-CRP. In this retrospective, cross-sectional study we analyzed blood samples from 110 heart failure patients for quantitative mRNA expression of ZMPSTE24, lamin A/C, progerin and hs-CRP protein. Spearman correlations and linear regression analyses including adjustments for age, gender and ejection fraction showed a significant positive correlation of lnprogerin with lnZMPSTE24 (n = 110; r = 0.33; p = 0.0004) and lnlamin A/C (n = 110; r = 0.82, p < 0.0001), whereas no association was observed between lnlamin A/C and lnZMPSTE24 expression. Further analyses showed a significant positive correlation of lnhs-CRP with lnZMPSTE24 (n = 110; r = 0.21; p = 0.01) and lnlamin A/C (n = 110; r = 0.24; p = 0.03). We conclude that chronic inflammation is associated with increased expression of ZMPSTE24 and lamin A/C mRNA. Both markers also positively correlate with increased expression of the premature aging marker progerin which may be linked to cardiovascular aging.
The MAO Inhibitor Tranylcypromine Alters LPS- and Aβ-Mediated Neuroinflammatory Responses in Wild-type Mice and a Mouse Model of AD
Authors: Park HyunHee , Han Kyung-Min , Jeon Hyongjun , Lee Ji-Soo , Lee Hyunju , Jeon Seong Gak , Park Jin-Hee , Kim Yu Gyung , Lin Yuxi , Lee Young-Ho , Jeong Yun Ha , Hoe Hyang-Sook
Published: August 2020

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) has been implicated in neuroinflammation, and therapies targeting MAO are of interest for neurodegenerative diseases. The small-molecule drug tranylcypromine, an inhibitor of MAO, is currently used as an antidepressant and in the treatment of cancer. However, whether tranylcypromine can regulate LPS- and/or Aβ-induced neuroinflammation in the brain has not been well-studied. In the present study, we found that tranylcypromine selectively altered LPS-induced proinflammatory cytokine levels in BV2 microglial cells but not primary astrocytes. In addition, tranylcypromine modulated LPS-mediated TLR4/ERK/STAT3 signaling to alter neuroinflammatory responses in BV2 microglial cells. Importantly, tranylcypromine significantly reduced microglial activation as well as proinflammatory cytokine levels in LPS-injected wild-type mice. Moreover, injection of tranylcypromine in 5xFAD mice (a mouse model of AD) significantly decreased microglial activation but had smaller effects on astrocyte activation. Taken together, our results suggest that tranylcypromine can suppress LPS- and Aβ-induced neuroinflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo.
The Scarcity of Literature on the Psychological, Social, and Emotional Effects of Gastroparesis in Children
Authors: Taft Tiffany H. , Doerfler Bethany , Edlynn Emily , Nguyen Linda
Published: August 2020

Gastroparesis (GP) is a chronic, gastric dysmotility disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. The hallmark of GP is the delayed emptying of the contents of the stomach in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. Patients most commonly report chronic symptoms of nausea, vomiting, feeling full quickly when eating, bloating, and abdominal pain. Treatments are limited with relatively poor efficacy. As such, children with GP are at significant risk for the development of psychological co-morbidities. In this paper, we provide a topical review of the scientific literature on the psychological, social, and emotional impacts of gastroparesis in pediatric patients. We aim to document the current state of research, identify gaps in our knowledge with appropriate recommendations for future research directions, and highlight the unique challenges pediatric patients with GP and their families may face as they manage this disease. Based on the current review, research into the psychosocial impacts in children with GP is essentially non-existent. However, when considering research in children with other chronic digestive diseases, children with GP are likely to face multiple psychosocial challenges, including increased risk for anxiety and depression, stigma, and reduced quality of life. These significant gaps in the current understanding of effects of GP across domains of childhood functioning allow for ample opportunities for future studies to address psychosocial outcomes.
Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms among Lithuanian Parents Raising Children with Cancer
Authors: Banienė Irina , Žemaitienė Nida
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives: The study aims to evaluate post-traumatic stress symptom expression among Lithuanian parents raising children with cancer, including social, demographic, and medical factors, and to determine their significance for the risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder. Materials and methods: The study was carried out in two major Lithuanian hospitals treating children with oncologic diseases. The cross-sectional study included 195 parents, out of which 151 were mothers (77.4%) and 44 were fathers (22.6%). Post-traumatic stress symptoms were assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. To collect the sociodemographic, childhood cancer, and treatment data, we developed a questionnaire that was completed by the parents. Main study results were obtained using multiple linear regression. Results: A total of 75.4% of parents caring for children with cancer had pronounced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. The female gender (β = 0.83, p < 0.001) was associated with an increased manifestation of symptoms, whilst higher parental education (β = −0.21, p = 0.034) and the absence of relapse (β = −0.48, p < 0.001) of the child’s disease reduced post-traumatic stress symptom expression. Conclusions: Obtained results confirmed that experiencing a child’s cancer diagnosis and treatment is extremely stressful for many parents. This event may lead to impaired mental health and increased post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) risk; hence, it is necessary to provide better support and assistance to parents of children with cancer.
Corrosion Behavior and Biological Activity of Micro Arc Oxidation Coatings with Berberine on a Pure Magnesium Surface
Authors: Mu Liting , Ma Zhen , Wang Jingyan , Yuan Shidan , Li Muqin
Published: August 2020

Bone tissue repair materials can cause problems such as inflammation around the implant, slow bone regeneration, and poor repair quality. In order to solve these problems, a coating was prepared by ultrasonic micro-arc oxidation and self-assembly technology on a pure magnesium substrate. We studied the effect of berberine on the performance of the ultrasonic micro-arc oxidation/polylactic acid and glycolic acid copolymer/berberine (UMAO/PLGA/BR) coating. The chemical and morphological character of the coating was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The corrosion properties were studied by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a simulated body fluid. The cumulative release of drugs was tested by high-performance liquid chromatography. The results indicate that different amounts of BR can seal the corrosion channel to different extents. These coatings have a self-corrosion current density (Icorr) at least one order of magnitude lower than the UMAO coatings. When the BR content is 3.0 g/L, the self-corrosion current density of the UMAO/PLGA/BR coatings is the lowest (3.14 × 10−8 A/cm2) and the corrosion resistance is improved. UMAO/PLGA/BR coatings have excellent biological activity, which can effectively solve the clinical problem of rapid degradation of pure magnesium and easy infection.
Anomalous Long-Range Attraction in Colloidal Binary Mixtures at Fluid–Fluid Interfaces
Authors: Yi Zonglin , Ngai To
Published: August 2020

The properties of binary colloidal systems have gained the interest of researchers because they have much richer structures than their one-component counterpart. Continuing efforts are being made on the theoretical side on binary colloidal systems, while many issues remained unsolved for the lack of solid experimental supports, especially for study in the field of two-dimensional (2D) binary colloids system. Oil–water interfaces can serve as a good stringent 2D confinement for colloidal particles and can avoid anomalous problems caused by the quasi-two-dimensional environment in previous experimental reports. In this work, we conduct experimental research of binary colloids system in an oil–water interface to revisit theoretical predication. We measure an ultra-long-range attraction and discuss the possible mechanism of this attraction by comparing the experimental result with existing model and theory. This study could contribute more understanding of the binary colloidal system in both experimental aspects and theoretical aspects.
Chaotic Quantum Key Distribution
Authors: Cowper Noah , Shaw Harry , Thayer David
Published: August 2020

The ability to send information securely is a vital aspect of today’s society, and with the developments in quantum computing, new ways to communicate have to be researched. We explored a novel application of quantum key distribution (QKD) and synchronized chaos which was utilized to mask a transmitted message. This communication scheme is not hampered by the ability to send single photons and consequently is not vulnerable to number splitting attacks like other QKD schemes that rely on single photon emission. This was shown by an eavesdropper gaining a maximum amount of information on the key during the first setup and listening to the key reconciliation to gain more information. We proved that there is a maximum amount of information an eavesdropper can gain during the communication, and this is insufficient to decode the message.
Cocrystal Formation through Solid-State Reaction between Ibuprofen and Nicotinamide Revealed Using THz and IR Spectroscopy with Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Ishihara Sae , Hattori Yusuke , Otsuka Makoto , Sasaki Tetsuo
Published: August 2020

Cocrystallisation can enhance the solubility and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs); this method may be applied to improve the availability of materials that were previously considered unsuitable. Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy provides clear, substance-specific fingerprint spectra; the transparency of the THz wave allows us to probe inside a sample to identify medicinal materials. In this study, THz and infrared (IR) spectroscopy were used to characterise cocrystallisation in solid-phase reactions between ibuprofen and nicotinamide. Multivariate curve resolution with alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) was applied to both time-dependent THz and IR spectra to identify the intermolecular interactions between these cocrystallising species. The analytical results revealed cocrystal formation through a two-step reaction, in which the steps were dominated by thermal energy and water vapour, respectively. We infer that the presence of water molecules significantly lowered the activation energy of cocrystal formation.
Thermoelectric Properties of CoCrFeNiNbx Eutectic High Entropy Alloys
Authors: Han Kaiming , Jiang Hui , Huang Tiandang , Wei Mingyu
Published: August 2020

Bulk CoCrFeNiNb0.45 eutectic high entropy alloy (EHEA) with ultrafine-lamellar microstructure shows outstanding thermal stability. The EHEA offers opportunities for the development of thermoelectric materials. In this paper, the thermoelectric properties of a CoCrFeNiNbx (x = 0, 0.25, and 0.45) EHEA system were investigated. The results indicated that the electrical conductivity decreased with a rise in Nb content in the CoCrFeNiNbx alloys, which resulted from the increased eutectic structure and phase interface. Moreover, the thermal conductivity increased with increased Nb content at low temperature (T ≤ 473 K), while thermal conductivity decreased at high temperature (T > 573 K). The CoCrFeNiNb0.45 full eutectic high entropy alloy exhibited the lowest thermal conductivity and higher thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) at a high temperature (T > 573 K), which shows great promise for the thermoelectric application at high temperature.
Old and Cosmopolite: Molecular Phylogeny of Tropical–Subtropical Kites (Aves: Elaninae) with Taxonomic Implications
Authors: Starikov Ivan J. , Wink Michael
Published: August 2020

Kites of the Elaninae group are small and medium-sized, mostly tropical raptors traditionally considered as an early diverged subfamily of the Accipitridae. We used nucleotide sequences of three genetic markers (mitochondrial Cyt b and COI, nuclear RAG-1) to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of the Elaninae, other kites, and representatives of different families of diurnal raptors. Our results confirm the basal position of Elaninae, separated the latest in Early Miocene, including Chelictinia riocourii, which was not sequenced before and belongs to this group. Not only DNA data but also cytological, morphological, and ecological data show the singularity of Elaninae. We suggest elevating this group to family level as Elanidae within the order Accipitriformes. It includes Gampsonyx swainsonii as a monotypic subfamily because of distinctive traits and DNA sequence data. Taxonomic implications for other macrogroups of Accipitriformes are discussed.
Optimum Expanded Fraction for an Industrial, Collins-Based Nitrogen Liquefaction Cycle
Authors: Arnaiz-del-Pozo Carlos , López-Paniagua Ignacio , López-Grande Alberto , González-Fernández Celina
Published: August 2020

Industrial nitrogen liquefaction cycles are based on the Collins topology but integrate variations. Several pressure levels with liquefaction to medium pressure and compressor–expander sets are common. The cycle must be designed aiming to minimise specific power consumption rather than to maximise liquid yield. For these reasons, conclusions of general studies cannot be extrapolated directly. This article calculates the optimal share of total compressed flow to be expanded in an industrial Collins-based cycle for nitrogen liquefaction. Simulations in Unisim Design R451 using Peng Robinson EOS for nitrogen resulted in 88% expanded flow, which is greater than the 75–80% for conventional Collins cycles with helium or other substances. Optimum specific compression work resulted 430.7 kWh/ton of liquid nitrogen. For some operating conditions, the relation between liquid yield and specific power consumption was counterintuitive: larger yield entailed larger consumption. Exergy analysis showed 40.3% exergy efficiency of the optimised process. The exergy destruction distribution and exergy flow across the cycle is provided. Approximately 40% of the 59.7% exergy destruction takes place in the cooling after compression. This exergy could be used for secondary applications such as industrial heating, energy storage or for lower temperature applications as heat conditioning.
Cointegration and Unit Root Tests: A Fully Bayesian Approach
Authors: Diniz Marcio , B. Pereira Carlos , Stern Julio
Published: August 2020

To perform statistical inference for time series, one should be able to assess if they present deterministic or stochastic trends. For univariate analysis, one way to detect stochastic trends is to test if the series has unit roots, and for multivariate studies it is often relevant to search for stationary linear relationships between the series, or if they cointegrate. The main goal of this article is to briefly review the shortcomings of unit root and cointegration tests proposed by the Bayesian approach of statistical inference and to show how they can be overcome by the Full Bayesian Significance Test (FBST), a procedure designed to test sharp or precise hypothesis. We will compare its performance with the most used frequentist alternatives, namely, the Augmented Dickey–Fuller for unit roots and the maximum eigenvalue test for cointegration.
Nearest Neighbor Decoding and Pilot-Aided Channel Estimation for Fading Channels
Authors: Asyhari A. Taufiq , Koch Tobias , Guillén i Fàbregas Albert
Published: August 2020

We study the information rates of noncoherent, stationary, Gaussian, and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) flat-fading channels that are achievable with nearest neighbor decoding and pilot-aided channel estimation. In particular, we investigate the behavior of these achievable rates in the limit as the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) tends to infinity by analyzing the capacity pre-log, which is defined as the limiting ratio of the capacity to the logarithm of the SNR as the SNR tends to infinity. We demonstrate that a scheme estimating the channel using pilot symbols and detecting the message using nearest neighbor decoding (while assuming that the channel estimation is perfect) essentially achieves the capacity pre-log of noncoherent multiple-input single-output flat-fading channels, and it essentially achieves the best so far known lower bound on the capacity pre-log of noncoherent MIMO flat-fading channels. Extending the analysis to fading multiple-access channels reveals interesting relationships between the number of antennas and Doppler bandwidth in the comparative performance of joint transmission and time division multiple-access.
Evaluation of Standard Electrical Bonding Strategies for the Hybrid Integration of Inkjet-Printed Electronics
Authors: Rauter Lukas , Zikulnig Johanna , Sinani Taulant , Zangl Hubert , Faller Lisa-Marie
Published: August 2020

Different conductive bonding strategies for the hybrid integration of flexible, inkjet-printed electronics are investigated. The focus of the present work lies on providing a practical guide comprising standard techniques that are inexpensive, easily implementable and frequently used. A sample set consisting of identical conductive test structures on different paper and plastic substrates was prepared using silver (Ag) nanoparticle ink. The sintered specimens were electrically contacted using soldering, adhesive bonding and crimping. Electrical and mechanical characterization before and after exposing the samples to harsh environmental conditions was performed to evaluate the reliability of the bonding methods. Resistance measurements were done before and after connecting the specimens. Afterwards, 85 °C/85% damp-heat tests and tensile tests were applied. Adhesive bonding appears to be the most suitable and versatile method, as it shows adequate stability on all specimen substrates, especially after exposure to a 85 °C/85% damp-heat test. During exposure to mechanical tensile testing, adhesive bonding proved to be the most stable, and forces up to 12 N could be exerted until breakage of the connection. As a drawback, adhesive bonding showed the highest increase in electrical resistance among the different bonding strategies.
The Analysis of the Symmetrical Short-Circuit Currents in Backup Power Supply Systems with Low-Power Synchronous Generators
Authors: Mamcarz Dominik , Albrechtowicz Paweł , Radwan-Pragłowska Natalia , Rozegnał Bartosz
Published: August 2020

This paper presents an analysis of the short-circuit currents of a synchronous generator with a rated power of 16 kVA. For this purpose, the authors carried out measurements of real short-circuit currents during laboratory tests. Additionally, a simulation model of the generator was developed according to the individual machines data from the catalog and field calculations in ANSYS Maxwell software. Based on the mentioned research, the authors compared waveforms of the symmetrical short-circuit currents. In this paper, the last compared family of short-circuit current waveforms was obtained using analytic calculations. As the presented comparison shows, the assumed method of selecting short-circuit waveforms impacted their values. However, the difference in energy related to short-circuit currents did not influence on the selection of the short-circuit protections, especially at low values of steady-state short-circuit currents and short time constants characteristic for the generators, performing the functions of an alternative power supply. Regardless of the research method, the results presented in the article show that the selection of the short-circuit protections is complicated in case of hybrid electrical systems equipped with low power generators.
Numerical Investigation of the Turbulent Wake-Boundary Interaction in a Translational Cascade of Airfoils and Flat Plate
Authors: Ruan Xiaodong , Zhang Xu , Wang Pengfei , Wang Jiaming , Xu Zhongbin
Published: August 2020

Rotor stator interaction (RSI) is an important phenomenon influencing performances in the pump, turbine, and compressor. In this paper, the correlation-based transition model is used to study the RSI phenomenon between a translational cascade of airfoils and a flat plat. A comparison was made between computational results and experimental results. The computational boundary layer velocity is in reasonable agreement with the experimental velocity. The thickness of boundary layer decreases as the RSI frequency increases and it increases as the fluid flows downstream. The spectral plots of velocity fluctuations at leading edge x/c = 2 under RSI partial flow condition f = 20 Hz and f = 30 Hz are dominated by a narrowband component. RSI frequency mainly affects the turbulence intensity in the freestream region. However, it has little influence on the turbulence intensity of boundary layer near the wall. A secondary vortex is induced by the wake–boundary layer interaction and it leads to the formation of a thickened laminar boundary layer. The negative-vorticity wake also facilitates the formation of a thickened boundary layer while the positive-vorticity wake has a similar effect, like a calmed region which makes the boundary layer thinner.
Microclimate Conditions in Rooms: Their Impact on Mold Development in Buildings
Authors: Orlik-Kożdoń Bożena
Published: August 2020

The publication concerns the problem of adopting proper environmental conditions in the assessment of mold development in the so-called thermal bridges in the form of corners. The paper discusses the factors determining the development of mold and the models that predict its growth. The conditions of the internal microclimate, which is used in hygrothermal diagnostics of walls, were also recalled. Thermal bridges are areas where mold development takes place, therefore the climatic conditions in the room taken for their assessment—As it is currently applied—Are considered inappropriate. This thesis is confirmed by the results of in situ studies of changes in temperature and relative humidity in the area of corners. Some of these findings are presented in the work. On their basis, the author introduces the concept of the so-called geometric climate that would take into account the change of these parameters within thermal bridges of the corner type.
Assessment of Sentinel-2 Satellite Images and Random Forest Classifier for Rainforest Mapping in Gabon
Authors: Waśniewski Adam , Hościło Agata , Zagajewski Bogdan , Moukétou-Tarazewicz Dieudonné
Published: August 2020

This study is focused on the assessment of the potential of Sentinel-2 satellite images and the Random Forest classifier for mapping forest cover and forest types in northwest Gabon. The main goal was to investigate the impact of various spectral bands collected by the Sentinel-2 satellite, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and digital elevation model (DEM), and their combination on the accuracy of the classification of forest cover and forest type. Within the study area, five classes of forest type were delineated: semi-evergreen moist forest, lowland forest, freshwater swamp forest, mangroves, and disturbed natural forest. The classification was performed using the Random Forest (RF) classifier. The overall accuracy for the forest cover ranged between 92.6% and 98.5%, whereas for forest type, the accuracy was 83.4 to 97.4%. The highest accuracy for forest cover and forest type classifications were obtained using a combination of spectral bands at spatial resolutions of 10 m and 20 m and DEM. In both cases, the use of the NDVI did not increase the classification accuracy. The DEM was shown to be the most important variable in distinguishing the forest type. Among the Sentinel-2 spectral bands, the red-edge followed by the SWIR contributed the most to the accuracy of the forest type classification. Additionally, the Random Forest model for forest cover classification was successfully transferred from one master image to other images. In contrast, the transferability of the forest type model was more complex, because of the heterogeneity of the forest type and environmental conditions across the study area.
The Best Urban Trees for Daytime Cooling Leave Nights Slightly Warmer
Authors: Wujeska-Klause Agnieszka , Pfautsch Sebastian
Published: August 2020

Summer air temperatures will continue to rise in metropolitan regions due to climate change and urbanization, intensifying daytime and nighttime air temperatures and result in greater thermal discomfort for city dwellers. Urban heat may be reduced by trees which provide shade, decreasing air and surface temperatures underneath their canopies. We asked whether tree height and canopy density can help to identify species that provide greater microclimate benefits during day and night. We also asked if increased canopy cover of street trees provides similar microclimate benefits. We used continuous measurements of near-surface air temperatures under 36 park trees and from two urban streets to assess these questions. In the park, trees were grouped according to their height (<10 m, 10–20 m, >20 m) and canopy density (low, high), while the effect of canopy cover was tested using streets with high (31%) and low (11%) cover. Daytime near-surface air temperature declined with increasing height and canopy density providing significant cooling benefits. However, this trend was reversed at night when tall trees with dense canopies restricted longwave radiative cooling and trapped warm air beneath their crowns. High canopy cover of street trees reduced daytime air temperatures more, resulting in a lower number of days with hot (>35 °C) and extreme (>40 °C) air temperatures compared to the street that had low canopy cover. These findings suggest that tree species and streetscapes with dense canopy cover improve local thermal conditions during the day but do not seem ideal to allow for nighttime cooling, creating potential discomfort for residents during hot summer nights. Our results indicate that classifying trees using a simple metric can assist in selecting tree species that can alleviate the local negative effect of urban heat during the day, but at the same time, their effect in preventing optimal longwave radiative cooling during the night must be factored into planting strategies.
Catch per Unit Effort Dynamic of Yellowfin Tuna Related to Sea Surface Temperature and Chlorophyll in Southern Indonesia
Authors: Wiryawan Budy , Loneragan Neil , Mardhiah Ulfah , Kleinertz Sonja , Wahyuningrum Prihatin , Pingkan Jessica , Wildan  , Timur Putra , Duggan Deirdre , Yulianto Irfan
Published: August 2020

Tuna fisheries are the most valuable fisheries in the world, with an estimated market value of at least US$42 billion in 2018. Indonesia plays an important role in the global tuna fisheries and has committed to improve its fisheries management; therefore, a pilot of long-term spatial-temporal data bases was developed in 2012, however none have utilized data to have better understanding for management improvement. In this study, the annual and seasonal variation of large (≥10 kg) Yellowfin Tuna (YFT) catch per unit effort (CPUE) have been investigated and the influence of sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a on these variables examined. We used fish landing data from West Nusa Tenggara recorded every month between 2012 and 2017 and analyzed using generalized linear models and generalized additive models. We found a seasonal and annual pattern of tuna abundance affected by SST and chlorophyll-a (chl a) and related to upwelling and El Nino event. These results also suggest that a two-month closure to fishing in August and September in southern Lombok is worth considering by the Government to maximize conservation of stocks due to a high abundance of juveniles emerging during the upwelling months from June to August.
Mean Drift Forces on Vertical Cylindrical Bodies Placed in Front of a Breakwater
Authors: Konispoliatis Dimitrios , Mavrakos Spyridon
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a numerical and experimental investigation of the second-order steady horizontal and vertical drift forces acting on cylindrical bodies in regular waves. The examined bodies are either kept restrained in front of a vertical breakwater or are considered free- floating when alone in the wave field. Two principally different approaches for mean drift forces determination are described: the momentum conservation principle and the direct integration of all pressure contributions upon the instantaneous wetted surface of the bodies, whereas, for the solution of the associated diffraction and motion radiation problems, analytical and panel methodologies are applied. The hydrodynamic interaction phenomenon between the bodies and the adjacent breakwater are taken into account by using the method of images. Theoretical and numerical results, concerning the horizontal and the vertical drift forces, are presented and compared with each other. Furthermore, additional comparisons are made with experimental data obtained during an experimental campaign at French research institute for exploitation of the sea (IFREMER), in France.
Correction: Weighted Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction for Carcass Traits in Hanwoo Cattle. Genes 2019, 10, 1019
Authors: Lopez Bryan Irvine , Lee Seung-Hwan , Park Jong-Eun , Shin Dong-Hyun , Oh Jae-Don , de las Heras-Saldana Sara , van der Werf Julius , Chai Han-Ha , Park Woncheoul , Lim Dajeong
Published: August 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
The Acidic Stress Response of the Intracellular Pathogen Brucella melitensis: New Insights from a Comparative, Genome-Wide Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Kornspan David , Zahavi Tamar , Salmon-Divon Mali
Published: August 2020

The intracellular pathogenic bacteria belonging to the genus Brucella must cope with acidic stress as they penetrate the host via the gastrointestinal route, and again during the initial stages of intracellular infection. A transcription-level regulation has been proposed to explain this but the specific molecular mechanisms are yet to be determined. We recently reported a comparative transcriptomic analysis of the attenuated vaccine Brucella melitensis strain Rev.1 against the virulent strain 16M in cultures grown under either neutral or acidic conditions. Here, we re-analyze the RNA-seq data of 16M from our previous study and compare it to published transcriptomic data of this strain from both an in cellulo and an in vivo model. We identify 588 genes that are exclusively differentially expressed in 16M grown under acidic versus neutral pH conditions, including 286 upregulated genes and 302 downregulated genes that are not differentially expressed in either the in cellulo or the in vivo model. Of these, we highlight 13 key genes that are known to be associated with a bacterial response to acidic stress and, in our study, were highly upregulated under acidic conditions. These genes provide new molecular insights into the mechanisms underlying the acid-resistance of Brucella within its host.
Liberal Arts for Social Change
Authors: Mondschein Ken
Published: August 2020

The author makes a strategic argument for the liberal arts grounded in realpolitik (that is, the “realistic” manipulation of the levers of power). In a time of neoliberal university governance, it is useful for fields of study to base appeals for their continued existence on their utility to their institutions. The growth of equity and diversity initiatives in the academy, particularly in the aftermath of the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, gives us a means of making this argument, as the liberal arts have utility in questioning the structures of white supremacy and received history and values. By exploiting the cognitive dissonance between the demands of neoliberal governance and the need for diversity and equity, we can make a persuasive case for reinvestment in the liberal arts. Further, this reinvestment ought to be democratized and carried out through all levels of higher education, including, and especially, non-selective, vocationally oriented institutions.
Gestational Diabetes Type 2: Variation in High-Density Lipoproteins Composition and Function
Authors: Pasternak Yael , Biron-Shental Tal , Ohana Meital , Einbinder Yael , Arbib Nissim , Benchetrit Sydney , Zitman-Gal Tali
Published: August 2020

Aims: Class A2 gestational diabetes mellitus (GDMA2) has short- and long-term effects on the mother and child. These may include abnormalities of placentation, damage to endothelial cells and cardiovascular disease. This research investigated the function and composition of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) among women with GDMA2 and their fetuses. Methods: Thirty pregnant women were recruited during admission for delivery. The function and expression of HDL, paraoxonase1 (PON1) and apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) in the blood samples and the placental tissue were evaluated. The effect of HDL on migration of endothelial cells was measured in vitro. Results: Compared to normal pregnancy (NP), APOA1 in the maternal plasma of women with GDMA2 was decreased. More APOA1 and PON1 were released from HDL of women with GDMA2, compared to NP. Placental APOA1 and PON1 were decreased in GDMA2. For endothelial cells stimulated with TNFα, HDL cell migration was decreased when cells were evaluated with NP-HDL, as compared to GDMA2-HDL. Conclusions: GDMA2 affects the composition and function of HDL in plasma. Changes in HDL commonly seen in GDMA2 were observed in maternal and placental samples, but not in cord samples. These results might indicate a placental role in protecting the fetus by preserving the components and functions of HDL and require further investigation.
DHA Attenuates Cerebral Edema Following Traumatic Brain Injury via the Reduction in Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability
Authors: Liu Zhuo-Hao , Chen Nan-Yu , Tu Po-hsun , Wu Chen-Te , Chiu Shao-Chieh , Huang Ying-Cheng , Lim Siew-Na , Yip Ping K.
Published: August 2020

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) could result in edema and cause an increase in intracranial pressure of the brain resulting in mortality and morbidity. Although there is hyperosmolarity therapy available for this pathophysiological event, it remains controversial. Recently, several groups have shown docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to improve functional and histological outcomes following brain injury based on reduction of neuroinflammation and apoptosis. However, the effect of DHA on blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction after brain injury has not been fully studied. Here, a controlled cortical impact rat model was used to test the effect of a single dose of DHA administered 30 min post injury. Modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and forelimb asymmetry were used to determine the functional outcomes. Neuroimaging and histology were used to characterize the edema and BBB dysfunction. The study showed that DHA-treated TBI rats had better mNSS and forelimb asymmetry score than vehicle-treated TBI rats. Temporal analysis of edema using MRI revealed a significant reduction in edema level with DHA treatment compared to vehicle in TBI rats. Histological analysis using immunoglobulin G (IgG) extravasation showed that there was less extravasation, which corresponded with a reduction in aquaporin 4 and astrocytic metalloprotease 9 expression, and greater endothelial occludin expression in the peri-contusional site of the TBI rat brain treated with DHA in comparison to vehicle treatment. In conclusion, the study shows that DHA can exert its functional improvement by prevention of the edema formation via prevention of BBB dysfunction after TBI.
Paclitaxel Potentiates the Anticancer Effect of Cetuximab by Enhancing Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Sawatani Yuta , Komiyama Yuske , Nakashiro Koh-ichi , Uchida Daisuke , Fukumoto Chonji , Shimura Michiko , Hasegawa Tomonori , Kamimura Ryouta , Hitomi-Koide Masayo , Hyodo Toshiki , Kawamata Hitoshi
Published: August 2020

Administration of cetuximab (C-mab) in combination with paclitaxel (PTX) has been used for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) clinically. In this study, we attempted to clarify the molecular mechanisms of the enhancing anticancer effect of C-mab combined with PTX on oral SCC cells in vitro. We used two oral SCC cells (HSC4, OSC19) and A431 cells. PTX alone inhibited cell growth in all cells in a concentration-dependent manner. C-mab alone inhibited the growth of A431 and OSC19 cells at low concentrations, but inhibited the growth of HSC4 cells very weakly, even at high concentrations. A combined effect of the two drugs was moderate on A431 cells, but slight on HSC4 and OSC19 cells. A low concentration of PTX enhanced the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) induced by C-mab in all of the cells tested. PTX slightly enhanced the anticancer effect of C-mab in this ADCC model on A431 and HSC4 cells, and markedly enhanced the anticancer effect of C-mab on OSC19 cells. These results indicated that PTX potentiated the anticancer effect of C-mab through enhancing the ADCC in oral SCC cells.
Influence of Resveratrol on the Cardiovascular Health Effects of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Song Jenn-Yeu , Shen Ta-Chung , Hou Yi-Chou , Chang Jia-Feng , Lu Chien-Lin , Liu Wen-Chih , Chen Po-Jui , Chen Bo-Hau , Zheng Cai-Mei , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: August 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is closely related to chronic kidney disease (CKD), and patients with CKD have a high risk of CVD-related mortality. Traditional CVD risk factors cannot account for the higher cardiovascular risk of patients with CKD, and standard CVD interventions cannot reduce the mortality rates among patients with CKD. Nontraditional factors related to mineral and vitamin-D metabolic disorders provide some explanation for the increased CVD risk. Non-dialyzable toxins, indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresol sulfate (PCS)—produced in the liver by colonic microorganisms—cause kidney and vascular dysfunction. Plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO)—a gut microbe-dependent metabolite of dietary L-carnitine and choline—is elevated in CKD and related to vascular disease, resulting in poorer long-term survival. Therefore, the modulation of colonic flora can improve prospects for patients with CKD. Managing metabolic syndrome, anemia, and abnormal mineral metabolism is recommended for the prevention of CVD in patients with CKD. Considering nontraditional risk factors, the use of resveratrol (RSV), a nutraceutical, can be helpful for patients with CVD and CKD. This paper discusses the beneficial effects of RSV on biologic, pathophysiological and clinical responses, including improvements in intestinal epithelial integrity, modulation of the intestinal microbiota and reduction in hepatic synthesis of IS, PCS and TMAO in patients with CVD and CKD.