bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Load Dispatch in Competitive Electricity Market by Using Different Models of Hopfield Lagrange Network
Authors: Duong Thanh Long , Nguyen Phuong Duy , Phan Van-Duc , Vo Dieu Ngoc , Nguyen Thang Trung
Published: July 2019

In this paper, a Hopfield Lagrange network (HLN) method is applied to solve the optimal load dispatch (OLD) problem under the concern of the competitive electric market. The duty of the HLN is to determine optimal active power output of thermal generating units in the aim of maximizing the benefit of electricity generation from all available units. In addition, the performance of the HLN is also tested by using five different functions consisting of the logistic, hyperbolic tangent, Gompertz, error, and Gudermanian functions for updating outputs of continuous neurons. The five functions are tested on two systems with three units and 10 units considering two revenue models in which the first model considers payment for power delivered and the second model concerns payment for reserve allocated. In order to evaluate the real effectiveness and robustness of the HLN, comparisons with other methods such as particle swarm optimization (PSO), the cuckoo search algorithm (CSA) and differential evolution (DE) are also implemented on the same systems. High benefits and fast execution time from the HLN lead to a conclusion that the HLN should be applied for solving the OLD problem in a competitive electric market. Among the five applied functions, error function is considered to be the most effective one because it can support the HLN to find the highest benefit and reach the fastest convergence with the smallest number of iterations. Thus, it is suggested that error function should be used for updating outputs for continuous neurons of the HLN.
Is a Land Use Regression Model Capable of Predicting the Cleanest Route to School?
Authors: Boniardi Luca , Dons Evi , Campo Laura , Van Poppel Martine , Int Panis Luc , Fustinoni Silvia
Published: July 2019

Land Use Regression (LUR) modeling is a widely used technique to model the spatial variability of air pollutants in epidemiology. In this study, we explore whether a LUR model can predict home-to-school commuting exposure to black carbon (BC). During January and February 2019, 43 children walking to school were involved in a personal monitoring campaign measuring exposure to BC and tracking their home-to-school routes. At the same time, a previously developed LUR model for the study area was applied to estimate BC exposure on points along the route. Personal BC exposure varied widely with mean ± SD of 9003 ± 4864 ng/m3. The comparison between the two methods showed good agreement (Pearson’s r = 0.74, Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient = 0.6), suggesting that LUR estimates are capable of catching differences among routes and predicting the cleanest route. However, the model tends to underestimate absolute concentrations by 29% on average. A LUR model can be useful in predicting personal exposure and can help urban planners in Milan to build a healthier city for schoolchildren by promoting less polluted home-to-school routes.
Development and Application of EST-SSR Markers for DNA Fingerprinting and Genetic Diversity Analysis of the Main Cultivars of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) in China
Authors: Dong Li , Sun Yuhan , Zhao Keqi , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yuwei , Li Xiuyu , Xun Shouhua , Zhang Jiangtao , Wang Shaoming , Li Yun
Published: July 2019

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) is an economically and ecologically important tree species which is used for pillar construction, honey production and soil improvement. More EST-SSR (Expressed sequence tag simple sequence repeat) markers of black locust can be used as a complement and improvement of Genomic-SSR markers for the identification of the function of gene and the construction of genetic map. Additionally, currently there is no simple method for identifying black locust cultivars. In this study, we obtained 2702 unigenes from 3095 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database to identify simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in R. pseudoacacia samples. A total of 170 SSR loci were found to be distributed in 162 non-redundant sequences with a frequency of 6.29%. Dinucleotide repeats were the most predominant types among microsatellites (62.35%), followed by tri-nucleotide repeats (25.88%); the remaining SSRs accounted for less than 12%. The repeat motifs AG/TC (29.25%) and CT/GA (29.25%) were the most abundant among dinucleotides, and AAT/TTA (15.91%) was the most common among tri-nucleotides. A total of 62 primer pairs were designed to screen polymorphic and stable SSR loci. The resulting 25 EST-SSR markers capable of amplifying polymorphic, stable, and repeatable products. Eight newly developed EST-SSR markers and four published SSR markers were selected for DNA fingerprinting and genetic diversity analysis of the 123 main R. pseudoacacia cultivars in China. The 12 SSR loci amplified 102 alleles, with an average number of alleles per locus of 8.5 (range 4–15). The average polymorphism information content at the 12 SSR loci for the 123 cultivars was 0.670 (range 0.427–0.881). The 123 cultivars clustered into six main groups based on similarity coefficients, with most cultivars in one subgroup. Fingerprinting was performed using eight SSR markers; 110 black locust cultivars were distinguished. The results of this study increase the availability of EST-SSR markers in black locust and make it a simple method for checking the collection, the certification, and the correct attribution of clones and cultivars.
Morphological and Genetic Mechanisms Underlying Awn Development in Monocotyledonous Grasses
Authors: Ntakirutimana Fabrice , Xie Wengang
Published: July 2019

The identification of biological mechanisms underlying the development of complex quantitative traits, including those that contribute to plant architecture, yield and quality potential, and seed dispersal, is a major focus in the evolutionary biology and plant breeding. The awn, a bristle-like extension from the lemma in the floret, is one of the distinct morphological and physiological traits in grass species. Awns are taught as an evolutionary trait assisting seed dispersal and germination and increasing photosynthesis. Awn development seems to be complex process, involving dramatic phenotypic and molecular changes. Although recent advances investigated the underlying morphological and molecular genetic factors of awn development, there is little agreement about how these factors interact during awn formation and how this interaction affects variation of awn morphology. Consequently, the developmental sequence of the awn is not yet well understood. Here, we review awn morphological and histological features, awn development pathways, and molecular processes of awn development. We argue that morphological and molecular genetic mechanisms of awn development previously studied in major cereal crops, such as barley, wheat, and rice, offered intriguing insights helping to characterize this process in a comparative approach. Applying such an approach will aid to deeply understand factors involved in awn development in grass species.
Editorial—Role of DNA Methyltransferases in the Epigenome
Authors: Jeltsch Albert , Gowher Humaira
Published: July 2019

DNA methylation, a modification found in most species, regulates chromatin functions in conjunction with other epigenome modifications, such as histone post-translational modifications and non-coding RNAs. In mammals, DNA methylation has essential roles in development by orchestrating the generation and maintenance of the phenotypic diversity of human cell types. This Special Issue of Genes contains eight review articles, which cover several aspects of epigenome regulation by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), the enzymes responsible for the introduction of DNA methylation. The manuscripts present the most recent advances regarding the structure and function of DNMTs, their targeting and regulation by interacting factors and chromatin modifications, and the roles of DNMTs in mammalian development and human diseases. However, many aspects of these important enzymes are still insufficiently understood. Potential directions of future work are the regulation of DNMTs by post-translational modifications and their connection to cellular signaling and second messenger cascades on one hand and to large multifactorial epigenetic chromatin circuits on the other. Additionally, technical advancements, including the availability of designer nucleosomes and the rapid development of cryo-electron microscopy are expected to trigger breakthrough discoveries in this exciting field.
Characterization of the Tourist Demand of the Villuercas–Ibores–Jara Geopark: A Destination with the Capacity to Attract Tourists and Visitors
Authors: Sánchez-Martín José-Manuel , Rengifo-Gallego Juan-Ignacio , Martín-Delgado Luz-María
Published: July 2019

Geological heritage has become a tourist resource with huge potential in certain areas, which has given rise to a tourism category known as geotourism which has entered the generic framework of rural tourism. The main elements around which geotourism revolves are geoparks and geosites. However, despite the recognized role which is played by the latter as a tourist resource, there is a widespread lack of knowledge of the characteristics of the demand. This study aims to characterize the demand of the Villuercas–Jara–Ibores geopark in Spain based on information provided by surveys which has subsequently been processed by means of a Geographical Information System. The results obtained allow the differentiation of various types of profile of those providing the demand according to whether we consider visitors to the geopark as a whole or whether we separate tourists (visitors who spend the night in the geopark) from visitors (visitors who do not stay there). Among our main conclusions it should be emphasized that it is only possible to establish a difference between tourists and visitors if the main motivations are taken into account. It should also be stressed that the geopark operates as an internal tourist destination for those spending the night in other regions of Extremadura.
Suitability Analysis for the Emergency Shelters Allocation after an Earthquake in Japan
Authors: Akamatsu Tetsuya , Yamamoto Kayoko
Published: July 2019

Japan is exposed to several natural phenomena; the damages caused by earthquakes were enormous in particular. An emergency shelter is a place for people to temporarily live when they cannot remain in their previous homes, and it is necessary for each community to, respectively, allocate such facilities in Japan. There are the districts that are short of such facilities, especially in rural and suburban areas, because emergency shelters mainly concentrate near large-scale stations and city centres in Japan. Against these backdrops, using geographic information systems (GIS), an applied statistical method and public open data related to population and emergency shelters, the present research aims to quantitatively conduct a suitability analysis for the emergency shelters allocation after an earthquake in Japan. Based on the results, the present research grasps the districts that are short of emergency shelters, and visually shows the places where such facilities should be newly established on the digital map of GIS. Additionally, the assessment method is reproducible in the spatial and temporal dimension. It is necessary to create an original data related to emergency shelters to raise the reliability of the results, as the present research has the limitation of data availability.
The Mental Health Benefits of Purposeful Activities in Public Green Spaces in Urban and Semi-Urban Neighbourhoods: A Mixed-Methods Pilot and Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Coventry Peter A. , Neale Chris , Dyke Alison , Pateman Rachel , Cinderby Steve
Published: July 2019

Access and exposure to public green space might be critical to health promotion and prevention of mental ill health. However, it is uncertain if differential health and mental health benefits are associated with undertaking different activities in public green space. We evaluated the health and wellbeing benefits of different activities in different locations of public green spaces in urban and semi-urban areas. We used a mixed-methods before-and-after design. Volunteers at three conservation sites were recruited and took part in group guided walks, practical conservation tasks or citizen science. Repeated measures one-way ANOVAs with Bonferroni correction assessed the relationship between location and activity type on change in acute subjective mood from pre- to post-activity, measured with the UWIST Mood Adjective Checklist (UWIST-MACL). Qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken and analysed thematically to explore participants’ perceptions about the health and wellbeing benefits of activities in public green space. Forty-five participants were recruited, leading to 65 independent observations. Walking, conservation and citizen science in public green space were associated with improved mood. Across all participants acute subjective mood improved across all domains of the UWIST-MACL. There was a significant association between reduction in stress and location (p = 0.009). Qualitatively participants reported that conservation and citizen science conferred co-benefits to the environment and individual health and well-being and were perceived as purposeful. Undertaking purposeful activity in public green space has the potential to promote health and prevent mental ill health.
Factors Affecting Korean Physician Job Satisfaction
Authors: Oh Young-In , Kim Hyeongsu , Kim KyeHyun
Published: July 2019

This study examines job satisfaction of physicians in Korea and investigates factors affecting their satisfaction. The majority of the past studies tend to cover few minor factors— including stress and occupation professionality or insufficient scale of respondents in particular regions—thus leading to restricted explanations on job satisfaction of the overall physician pool in Korea. This study examines the level of job satisfaction of physicians in Korea and factors affecting their satisfaction by using the ‘2016 Korean Physician Survey (KPS)’ data which included all physicians in Korea. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was conducted in this study in order to identify the factors affecting job satisfaction of physicians in terms of care environment attributes. These attributes included autonomy for care delivery, colleagues/staff/patient relations, income, healthcare resources, social reputation, personal leisure time, administration, restrictions and regulations, and work hours and loads. For the ordinal logistic regression analysis, general socio-demographic attributes, such as gender, age, specialty, job position, type of affiliated healthcare organization, working region, and length of service were controlled beforehand. The result of our measures, the affecting factors of job satisfaction for physicians, include being able to; maintain positive relations with patients through adequate time for consultation and necessary healthcare, have the autonomy to make clinical decisions, have healthy relations with peers and staff, obtain respect from family and society, work in an environment with desirable income and have adequate health resources, and have appropriate work hours and loads for those who facilitate high-quality care. Creating an environment in which physicians can focus on patient-oriented healthcare will contribute to promoting national healthcare.
The Role of DPP-4 Inhibitors in the Treatment Algorithm of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: When to Select, What to Expect
Authors: Makrilakis Konstantinos
Published: July 2019

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a growing global public health problem, the prevalence of which is projected to increase in the succeeding decades. It is potentially associated with many complications, affecting multiple organs and causing a huge burden to the society. Due to its multi-factorial pathophysiology, its treatment is varied and based upon a multitude of pharmacologic agents aiming to tackle the many aspects of the disease pathophysiology (increasing insulin availability [either through direct insulin administration or through agents that promote insulin secretion], improving sensitivity to insulin, delaying the delivery and absorption of carbohydrates from the gastrointestinal tract, or increasing urinary glucose excretion). DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors (or “gliptins”) represent a class of oral anti-hyperglycemic agents that inhibit the enzyme DPP-4, thus augmenting the biological activity of the “incretin” hormones (glucagon-like peptide-1 [GLP-1] and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide [GIP]) and restoring many of the pathophysiological problems of diabetes. They have already been used over more than a decade in the treatment of the disease. The current manuscript will review the mechanism of action, therapeutic utility, and the role of DPP-4 inhibitors for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Characterization of Indoor Air Quality on a College Campus: A Pilot Study
Authors: Erlandson Grant , Magzamen Sheryl , Carter Ellison , Sharp Julia L. , Reynolds Stephen J. , Schaeffer Joshua W.
Published: July 2019

Recent construction trends on college campuses have demonstrated a shift to designing buildings with features focused on sustainability. However, few studies have investigated indoor air quality in institutions of higher education, particularly in sustainably designed buildings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of building and occupancy on indoor air quality within and between higher education buildings. We measured particulate matter, formaldehyde, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides in LEED certified, retrofitted, and conventional building types on a college campus. Three size fractions of particulate matter were measured in each building. We conducted multi-zonal, 48-h measurements when the buildings were occupied and unoccupied. Outdoor particulate matter was significantly higher (PM2.5 = 4.76, PM4 = 17.1, and PM100 = 21.6 µg/m3) than in classrooms (PM2.5 = 1.7, PM4 = 4.2, and PM100 = 6.7 µg/m3) and common areas (PM2.5 = 1.3, PM4 = 4.2, and PM100 = 4.8 µg/m3; all p < 0.001). Additionally, concentrations of carbon dioxide and particulate matter were significantly higher (p < 0.05) during occupied sampling. The results suggest that occupancy status and building zone are major predictors of indoor air quality in campus buildings, which can, in turn, increase the concentration of contaminants, potentially impacting occupant health and performance. More research is warranted to reveal building features and human behaviors contributing to indoor exposures.
The Distribution Pattern of the Railway Network in China at the County Level
Authors: Li Minmin , Guo Renzhong , Li You , He Biao , Fan Yong
Published: July 2019

Evaluation of the railway network distribution and its impacts on social and economic development has great significance for building an efficient and comprehensive railway system. To address the lack of evaluation indicators to assess the railway network distribution pattern at the macro scale, this study selects eight indicators—railway network density, railway network proximity, the shortest travel time, train frequency, population, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the gross industrial value above designated size, and fixed asset investment—as the basis of an integrated railway network distribution index which is used to characterize China’s railway network distribution using geographical information system (GIS) technology. The research shows that, in 2015, the railway network distribution was low in almost half of China’s counties and that there were obvious differences in distribution between counties in the east and west. In addition, multiple dense areas of railway network distribution were identified. The results suggest that it might be advisable to strengthen the connections between large and small cities in the eastern region and that the major urban agglomerations in the midwest could focus on strengthening the construction of railway facilities to increase the urban vitality of the western region. This study can be used to guide the optimization of railway network structures and provide a macro decision-making reference for the planning and evaluation of major railway projects in China.
Guest Editor’s Editorial “Cognitive Aspects of Human-Computer Interaction for GIS”
Authors: Fritsch Dieter
Published: July 2019

The first Hypertext System and HCI [...]
Transactivation Function-1-Mediated Partial Agonist Activity of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator Requires Homo-Dimerization of the Estrogen Receptor α Ligand Binding Domain
Authors: Arao Yukitomo , Korach Kenneth S.
Published: July 2019

The isolation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) cDNA was successful around 30 years ago. The characteristics of ERα protein have been examined from various aspects, primarily through in vitro cell culture studies, but more recently using in vivo experimental models. There remains, however, some uncharacterized ERα functionalities. In particular, the mechanism of partial agonist activity of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) that involves control of the N-terminal transcription function of ERα, termed AF-1, is still an unsolved ERα functionality. We review the possible mechanism of SERM-dependent regulation of ERα AF-1-mediated transcriptional activity, which includes the role of helix 12 of ERα ligand binding domain (LBD) for SERM-dependent AF-1 regulation. In addition, we describe a specific portion of the LBD that associates with blocking AF-1 activity with an additional role of the F-domain in mediating SERM activity.
Strategies to Increase On-Target and Reduce Off-Target Effects of the CRISPR/Cas9 System in Plants
Authors: Hajiahmadi Zahra , Movahedi Ali , Wei Hui , Li Dawei , Orooji Yasin , Ruan Honghua , Zhuge Qiang
Published: July 2019

The CRISPR/Cas9 system (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-associated protein 9) is a powerful genome-editing tool in animals, plants, and humans. This system has some advantages, such as a high on-target mutation rate (targeting efficiency), less cost, simplicity, and high-efficiency multiplex loci editing, over conventional genome editing tools, including meganucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs). One of the crucial shortcomings of this system is unwanted mutations at off-target sites. We summarize and discuss different approaches, such as dCas9 and Cas9 paired nickase, to decrease the off-target effects in plants. According to studies, the most effective method to reduce unintended mutations is the use of ligand-dependent ribozymes called aptazymes. The single guide RNA (sgRNA)/ligand-dependent aptazyme strategy has helped researchers avoid unwanted mutations in human cells and can be used in plants as an alternative method to dramatically decrease the frequency of off-target mutations. We hope our concept provides a new, simple, and fast gene transformation and genome-editing approach, with advantages including reduced time and energy consumption, the avoidance of unwanted mutations, increased frequency of on-target changes, and no need for external forces or expensive equipment.
Secretome of Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells (ASCs) as a Novel Trend in Chronic Non-Healing Wounds: An Overview of Experimental In Vitro and In Vivo Studies and Methodological Variables
Authors: Lombardi Francesca , Palumbo Paola , Augello Francesca Rosaria , Cifone Maria Grazia , Cinque Benedetta , Giuliani Maurizio
Published: July 2019

Wound healing is a complex process with a linear development that involves many actors in a multistep timeline commonly divided into four stages: Hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Chronic non-healing wounds fail to progress beyond the inflammatory phase, thus precluding the next steps and, ultimately, wound repair. Many intrinsic or extrinsic factors may contribute to such an occurrence, including patient health conditions, age-related diseases, metabolic deficiencies, advanced age, mechanical pressure, and infections. Great interest is being focused on the adipose tissue-derived stem cell’s (ASC) paracrine activity for its potential therapeutic impact on chronic non-healing wounds. In this review, we summarize the results of in vitro and in vivo experimental studies on the pro-wound healing effects of ASC-secretome and/or extracellular vesicles (EVs). To define an overall picture of the available literature data, experimental conditions and applied methodologies are described as well as the in vitro and in vivo models chosen in the reported studies. Even if a comparative analysis of the results obtained by the different groups is challenging due to the large variability of experimental conditions, the available findings are undoubtedly encouraging and fully support the use of cell-free therapies for the treatment of chronic non-healing wounds.
Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer Based G Protein-Activation Assay to Probe Duration of Antagonism at the Histamine H3 Receptor
Authors: Mocking Tamara A. M. , Buzink Maurice C. M. L. , Leurs Rob , Vischer Henry F.
Published: July 2019

Duration of receptor antagonism, measured as the recovery of agonist responsiveness, is gaining attention as a method to evaluate the ‘effective’ target-residence for antagonists. These functional assays might be a good alternative for kinetic binding assays in competition with radiolabeled or fluorescent ligands, as they are performed on intact cells and better reflect consequences of dynamic cellular processes on duration of receptor antagonism. Here, we used a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)-based assay that monitors heterotrimeric G protein activation via scavenging of released Venus-Gβ1γ2 by NanoLuc (Nluc)-tagged membrane-associated-C-terminal fragment of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 3 (masGRK3ct-Nluc) as a tool to probe duration of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) antagonism. The Gαi-coupled histamine H3 receptor (H3R) was used in this study as prolonged antagonism is associated with adverse events (e.g., insomnia) and consequently, short-residence time ligands might be preferred. Due to its fast and prolonged response, this assay can be used to determine the duration of functional antagonism by measuring the recovery of agonist responsiveness upon washout of pre-bound antagonist, and to assess antagonist re-equilibration time via Schild-plot analysis. Re-equilibration of pre-incubated antagonist with agonist and receptor could be followed in time to monitor the transition from insurmountable to surmountable antagonism. The BRET-based G protein activation assay can detect differences in the recovery of H3R responsiveness and re-equilibration of pre-bound antagonists between the tested H3R antagonists. Fast dissociation kinetics were observed for marketed drug pitolisant (Wakix®) in this assay, which suggests that short residence time might be beneficial for therapeutic targeting of the H3R.
Comparison of LncRNA Expression Profiles during Myogenic Differentiation and Adipogenic Transdifferentiation of Myoblasts
Authors: Qi Renli , Qiu Xiaoyu , Zhang Yong , Wang Jing , Wang Qi , Wu Min , Huang Jinxiu , Yang Feiyun
Published: July 2019

Myoblasts could transdifferentiate into adipocytes or adipocyte-like cells, which have the capability of producing and storing intracellular lipids. Long-chain non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have many important physiological functions in eukaryotes, which include regulating gene expression, chromosome silencing, and nuclear transport. However, changes in the expression of lncRNAs in muscle cells during adipogenic transdifferentiation have not been investigated to date. Here, C2C12 myoblasts were seeded and then induced to undergo myogenic and adipogenic transdifferentiation. The expression profiles of lncRNAs in various differentiated cells were analyzed and then compared by digital gene expression (DGE) RNA sequencing. A total of 114 core lncRNAs from 836 differentially expressed lncRNAs in adipogenic cells were identified. Further investigation by in silico analysis revealed that the target genes of core lncRNAs significantly enriched various signaling pathways that were related to glucose and lipid metabolism and muscle growth. The lncRNA-GM43652 gene was a potential regulator of adipogenesis in muscle cells. It showed the highest levels of expression in adipogenic cells, and the knocking down lncRNA-GM43652 negatively influenced lipid deposition in transdifferentiated myoblasts. This study has identified the novel candidate regulators that may be assessed in future molecular studies on adipogenic conversion of muscle cells.
Seed Treatment with Trichoderma longibrachiatum T6 Promotes Wheat Seedling Growth under NaCl Stress Through Activating the Enzymatic and Nonenzymatic Antioxidant Defense Systems
Authors: Zhang Shuwu , Xu Bingliang , Gan Yantai
Published: July 2019

Salt stress is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting crop growth and productivity worldwide. Species of Trichoderma are widely recognized for their bio-control abilities, but little information is regarding to the ability and mechanisms of their promoting plant growth and enhancing plant tolerance to different levels of salt stress. Hence, we determined (i) the role of Trichoderma longibrachiatum T6 (TL-6) in promoting wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seed germination and seedling growth under different levels of salt stress, and (ii) the mechanisms responsible for the enhanced tolerance of wheat to salt stress by TL-6. Wheat seeds treated with or without TL-6 were grown under different levels of salt stress in controlled environmental conditions. As such, the TL-6 treatments promoted seed germination and increased the shoot and root weights of wheat seedlings under both non-stress and salt-stress conditions. Wheat seedlings with TL-6 treatments under different levels of NaCl stress increased proline content by an average of 11%, ascorbate 15%, and glutathione 28%; and decreased the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) by an average of 19% and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) 13%. The TL-6 treatments induced the transcriptional level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging enzymes, leading to the increases of glutathione s-transferase (GST) by an average of 17%, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) 16%, ascorbate peroxidase (APX) 17%, glutathione reductase (GR) 18%, dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) 5%. Our results indicate that the beneficial strain of TL-6 effectively scavenged ROS under NaCl stress through modulating the activity of ROS scavenging enzymes, regulating the transcriptional levels of ROS scavenging enzyme gene expression, and enhancing the nonenzymatic antioxidants in wheat seedling in response to salt stress. Our present study provides a new insight into the mechanisms of TL-6 can activate the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant defense systems and enhance wheat seedling tolerance to different levels of salt stress at physiological, biochemical and molecular levels.
Catestatin in Acutely Decompensated Heart Failure Patients: Insights from the CATSTAT-HF Study
Authors: Borovac Josip A. , Glavas Duska , Susilovic Grabovac Zora , Supe Domic Daniela , D’Amario Domenico , Bozic Josko
Published: July 2019

The role of catestatin (CST) in acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and myocardial infarction (MI) is poorly elucidated. Due to the implicated role of CST in the regulation of neurohumoral activity, the goals of the study were to determine CST serum levels among ninety consecutively enrolled ADHF patients, with respect to the MI history and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and to examine its association with clinical, echocardiographic, and laboratory parameters. CST levels were higher among ADHF patients with MI history, compared to those without (8.94 ± 6.39 vs. 4.90 ± 2.74 ng/mL, p = 0.001). CST serum levels did not differ among patients with reduced, midrange, and preserved LVEF (7.74 ± 5.64 vs. 5.75 ± 4.19 vs. 5.35 ± 2.77 ng/mL, p = 0.143, respectively). In the multivariable linear regression analysis, CST independently correlated with the NYHA class (β = 0.491, p < 0.001), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (β = −0.237, p = 0.026), HbA1c (β = −0.235, p = 0.027), LDL (β = −0.231, p = 0.029), non-HDL cholesterol (β = −0.237, p = 0.026), hs-cTnI (β = −0.221, p = 0.030), and the admission and resting heart rate (β = −0.201, p = 0.036 and β = −0.242, p = 0.030), and was in positive association with most echocardiographic parameters. In conclusion, CST levels were increased in ADHF patients with MI and were overall associated with a favorable cardiometabolic profile but at the same time reflected advanced symptomatic burden (CATSTAT-HF ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03389386).
Longitudinal Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Endothelial Activation after Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Vegliante Gloria , Tolomeo Daniele , Drieu Antoine , Rubio Marina , Micotti Edoardo , Moro Federico , Vivien Denis , Forloni Gianluigi , Ali Carine , Zanier Elisa R.
Published: July 2019

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability. Despite progress in neurosurgery and critical care, patients still lack a form of neuroprotective treatment that can counteract or attenuate injury progression. Inflammation after TBI is a key modulator of injury progression and neurodegeneration, but its spatiotemporal dissemination is only partially known. In vivo approaches to study post-traumatic inflammation longitudinally are pivotal for monitoring injury progression/recovery and the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches. Here, we provide a minimally invasive, highly sensitive in vivo molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characterization of endothelial activation associated to neuroinflammatory response after severe TBI in mice, using microparticles of iron oxide targeting P-selectin (MPIOs-α-P-selectin). Strong endothelial activation was detected from 24 h in perilesional regions, including the cortex and hippocampus, and peaked in intensity and diffusion at two days, then partially decreased but persisted up to seven days and was back to baseline 15 days after injury. There was a close correspondence between MPIOs-α-P-selectin signal voids and the P-selectin stained area, confirming maximal endothelial activation at two days. Molecular MRI markers of inflammation may thus represent a useful tool to evaluate in vivo endothelial activation in TBI and monitoring the responses to therapeutic agents targeting vascular activation and permeability.
Enhanced Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Fetal Cartilage Rudiment Cells on Graphene Oxide-PLGA Hybrid Microparticles
Authors: Thickett Stuart C. , Hamilton Ella , Yogeswaran Gokulan , Zetterlund Per B. , Farrugia Brooke L. , Lord Megan S.
Published: July 2019

Poly(d,l–lactide–co–glycolide) (PLGA) has been extensively explored for bone regeneration applications; however, its clinical use is limited by low osteointegration. Therefore, approaches that incorporate osteoconductive molecules are of great interest. Graphene oxide (GO) is gaining popularity for biomedical applications due to its ability to bind biological molecules and present them for enhanced bioactivity. This study reports the preparation of PLGA microparticles via Pickering emulsification using GO as the sole surfactant, which resulted in hybrid microparticles in the size range of 1.1 to 2.4 µm based on the ratio of GO to PLGA in the reaction. Furthermore, this study demonstrated that the hybrid GO-PLGA microparticles were not cytotoxic to either primary human fetal cartilage rudiment cells or the human osteoblast-like cell line, Saos-2. Additionally, the GO-PLGA microparticles promoted the osteogenic differentiation of the human fetal cartilage rudiment cells in the absence of exogenous growth factors to a greater extent than PLGA alone. These findings demonstrate that GO-PLGA microparticles are cytocompatible, osteoinductive and have potential as substrates for bone tissue engineering.
What about Marine Renewable Energies in Spain?
Authors: Esteban María Dolores , Espada Juan Manuel , Ortega José Marcos , López-Gutiérrez José-Santos , Negro Vicente
Published: July 2019

Renewable energies play a fundamental role within the current political and social framework for minimizing the impacts of climate change. The ocean has a vast potential for generating energy and therefore, the marine renewable energies are included in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These energies include wave, tidal, marine currents, ocean thermal, and osmotic. Moreover, it can also be included wind, solar, geothermal and biomass powers, which their main use is onshore, but in the near future their use at sea may be considered. The manuscript starts with a state-of-the-art review of the abovementioned marine renewable energy resources worldwide. The paper continues with a case study focused on the Spanish coast, divided into six regions: (I) Cantabrian, (II) Galician, (III) South Atlantic, (IV) Canary Islands, (V) Southern Mediterranean, and (VI) Northern Mediterranean. The results show that: (1) areas I and II are suitable for offshore wind, wave and biomass; (2) areas III and V are suitable for offshore wind, marine current and offshore solar; area IV is suitable for offshore wind, ocean wave and offshore solar; (3) and area VI is suitable for offshore wind, osmotic and offshore solar. This analysis can help politicians and technicians to plan the use of these resources in Spain.
A Wave Energy Converter Design Load Case Study
Authors: van Rij Jennifer , Yu Yi-Hsiang , Guo Yi , Coe Ryan G.
Published: July 2019

This article presents an example by which design loads for a wave energy converter (WEC) might be estimated through the various stages of the WEC design process. Unlike previous studies, this study considers structural loads, for which, an accurate assessment is crucial to the optimization and survival of a WEC. Three levels of computational fidelity are considered. The first set of design load approximations are made using a potential flow frequency-domain boundary-element method with generalized body modes. The second set of design load approximations are made using a modified version of the linear-based time-domain code WEC-Sim. The final set of design load simulations are realized using computational fluid dynamics coupled with finite element analysis to evaluate the WEC’s loads in response to both regular and focused waves. This study demonstrates an efficient framework for evaluating loads through each of the design stages. In comparison with experimental and high-fidelity simulation results, the linear-based methods can roughly approximate the design loads and the sea states at which they occur. The high-fidelity simulations for regular wave responses correspond well with experimental data and appear to provide reliable design load data. The high-fidelity simulations of focused waves, however, result in highly nonlinear interactions that are not predicted by the linear-based most-likely extreme response design load method.
Reflections on How State–Civil Society Collaborations Play out in the Context of Land Grabbing in Argentina
Authors: Busscher Nienke , Vanclay Frank , Parra Constanza
Published: July 2019

We examine collaborations between the state and civil society in the context of land grabbing in Argentina. Land grabbing provokes many governance challenges, which generate new social arrangements. The incentives for, limitations to, and contradictions inherent in these collaborations are examined. We particularly explore how the collaborations between the provincial government of Santiago del Estero and non-government organizations (NGOs) played out. This province has experienced many land grabs, especially for agriculture and livestock production. In response to protest and political pressure, two provincial agencies were established to assist communities in relation to land tenure issues (at different stages). Even though many scholars consider state–civil society collaborations to be introduced by nation states only to gain and maintain political power, we show how rural communities are actually supported by these initiatives. By empowering rural populations, active NGOs can make a difference to how the negative implications of land grabbing are addressed. However, NGOs and government agencies are constrained by global forces, local political power plays, and stakeholder struggles.
Legal Certainty in the Management of Agricultural Land Pawning in the Matrilineal Minangkabau Society, West Sumatra
Authors: Nurdin Zefrizal , Tegnan Hilaire
Published: July 2019

Agricultural land pawning is not a new phenomenon to the traditional communities (Masyarakat Adat) in Indonesia, especially the matrilineal Minangkabau people who rely on their agricultural land for economic transactions. Based on the national law, customary law (referred to as Adat Law hereafter) is to prevail over agrarian issues in Indonesia. But even so, agrarian issues remain under the influence of national law. This study discusses the management of agricultural land pawning in the matrilineal Minangkabau society according to national, Adat, and Islamic laws. Despite its popularity, the Adat law approach in dealing with land issues, especially agricultural land pawning, has not been well accommodated under National Law. This paper investigates how agricultural land pawning is regulated in Indonesia, with a focus on the Minangkabau society in West Sumatra. This paper does not seek to promote one legal system over another, but instead, it intends to promote legal certainty in agricultural land pawning in West Sumatra. To show how the lack of legal certainty can lead to confusion and conflict, this study relies on the contradicting verdicts of an agrarian conflict case from lower courts to the Supreme Court. The study reveals that the contradiction between national agrarian laws, Minangkabau Adat law and West Sumatra local Regulation No. 16/2008 on Communal Land Tenure causes confusion within the community and the judiciary. Legal certainty is crucial to strengthening the rule of law and democracy in Indonesia, and the conflicting interpretations of agrarian laws belittle this concept. This study suggests that one way to deal with legal uncertainty regarding agrarian law in West Sumatra, and throughout Indonesia, is to promote a stronger and more just decentralization, which is increasingly important as the country faces the question of legal unification. The suggested decentralization effort would leave local issues to the authority of local legislations.
Land-Use, Crop Choice, and Proximity to Ethanol Plants
Authors: Park Junpyo , Anderson John , Thompson Eric
Published: July 2019

This paper examines how proximity to an ethanol plant influences land-use and crop choice among producers. We estimated a Tobit model of crop choice within parcels located in Central Nebraska in a 2014 sample period in order to analyze changes in land-use and crop choice. We employed Geographic Information System (GIS) databases to access relevant data on crop choice and other land uses in the study area parcels, in addition to detailed information on the location and capacity of irrigation wells. We utilized an instrumental variable approach to account for the endogeneity of crop choice with ethanol refinery locations in the study area. Our regional model also took into account specific characteristics of the local processing markets for grains, including animal food manufacturers and livestock as well as ethanol plants. Our estimates revealed that ethanol plants alter land-use in several ways. We found that proximity to an ethanol plant increases the share of land allocated to corn cultivation up to a distance of 30 miles and that the portion of land parcels allocated to corn production falls with distance from an ethanol plant in a non-linear pattern. We also find that land allocation to grassland and pasture rises with distance from ethanol plants.
The Effect of UV Irradiation on the Chemical Structure, Mechanical and Self-Healing Properties of Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Wu Shaopeng , Ye Yong , Li Yuanyuan , Li Chuangmin , Song Wei , Li Hechuan , Li Chao , Shu Benan , Nie Shuai
Published: July 2019

Although huge numbers of investigations have been conducted for the ultraviolet (UV) aging of asphalt binder, research rarely focuses on the asphalt mixture. In order to evaluate the aging effect of UV radiation on the asphalt mixture, a dense grade of asphalt mixture was designated and aged by UV radiation for 7, 14 and 28 days respectively. After that, the chemical functional groups of asphalt binder were tested by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). The semi-circular bending strength and fatigue resistance of asphalt concrete were tested to characterize the mechanical properties of the asphalt concrete. To evaluate the self-healing effect of the macro-structure continuity of asphalt concrete intuitively, the computed tomography (CT) scanning machine was used to characterize the crack size of asphalt concrete samples both before and after self-healing. The results show that, with the increase of UV irradiation time, the relative ratios of the C=O and S=O bands’ areas of recovered asphalt binder increase significantly. UV radiation can significantly weaken the mechanical and self-healing properties of asphalt mixture, making the asphalt mixture to have worse macro-structure continuity, lower failure strength and worse fatigue resistance. Moreover, the longer the UV irradiation time is, the degradation effect of UV radiation on asphalt mixture becomes more obvious.
Material Characterization of AISI 316L Flexure Pivot Bearings Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Riede Mirko , Knoll Matthias , Wilsnack Christoph , Gruber Samira , Alegre Cubillo Alba , Melzer Christian , Brandão Ana , Pambaguian Laurent , Seidel André , Lopez Elena , Brueckner Frank , Leyens Christoph
Published: July 2019

Recently, additive manufacturing (AM) by laser metal deposition (LMD) has become a key technology for fabricating highly complex parts without any support structures. Compared to the well-known powder bed fusion process, LMD enhances manufacturing possibilities to overcome AM-specific challenges such as process inherent porosity, minor build rates, and limited part size. Moreover, the advantages aforementioned combined with conventional machining enable novel manufacturing approaches in various fields of applications. Within this contribution, the additive manufacturing of filigree flexure pivots using 316L-Si by means of LMD with powder is presented. Frictionless flexure pivot bearings are used in space mechanisms that require high reliability, accuracy, and technical cleanliness. As a contribution to part qualification, the manufacturing process, powder material, and fabricated specimens were investigated in a comprehensive manner. Due to its major impact on the process, the chemical powder composition was characterized in detail by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Moreover, a profound characterization of the powder morphology and flowability was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and novel rheological investigation techniques. Furthermore, quantitative image analysis, mechanical testing, laser scanning microscopy, and 3D shape measurement of manufactured specimens were conducted. As a result, the gained knowledge was applied for the AM-specific redesign of the flexure pivot. Finally, a qualified flexure pivot has been manufactured in a hybrid manner to subsequently ensure its long-term durability in a lifetime test bench.