bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guidelines and Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Structural Health Monitoring Implementation in Offshore Wind Turbine Support Structures
Authors: Martinez-Luengo Maria , Shafiee Mahmood
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates how the implementation of Structural Health Monitoring Systems (SHMS) in the support structure (SS) of offshore wind turbines (OWT) affects capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) of offshore wind farms (WF). In order to determine the added value of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), the balance between the reduction in OPEX and the increase in CAPEX is evaluated. In this paper, guidelines for SHM implementation in offshore WF are developed and applied to a baseline scenario. The application of these guidelines consist of a review of present regulations in the United Kingdom and Germany, the development of SHM strategy, where the first stage of the Statistical Pattern Recognition (SPR) paradigm is explored, failure modes that can be monitored are identified, and SHM technologies and sensor distributions within the turbines are described for a baseline scenario. Furthermore, an inspection strategy where the different structural inspections to be carried out above and below water is also developed, together with an inspection plan for the lifetime of the structures, for the aforementioned baseline scenario. Once the guidelines have been followed and the SHM and inspection strategies developed, a cost-benefit analysis is performed on the baseline case (10% instrumented assets) and three other scenarios with 20%, 30% and 50% of instrumented assets. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate the effects of SHM hardware cost and the time spent in completing the inspections on OPEX and CAPEX of the WF. The results show that SHM hardware cost increases CAPEX significantly, however this increase is much lower than the reduction in OPEX caused by SHM. The results also show that an increase in the percentage of instrumented assets will reduce OPEX and this reduction is considerably higher than the cost of SHM implementation.
Does Reduction of Material and Energy Consumption Affect to Innovation Efficiency? The Case of Manufacturing Industry in South Korea
Authors: Shin Jaeho , Kim Changhee , Yang Hongsuk
Published: March 2019

“Reduction of material and energy consumption” (RMEC) exists as a major objective of innovation and it is proved to affect positively to innovation performance from previous literature. Though innovation should be measured in efficiency rather than performance itself, however, the relationship between material and energy reduction on innovation efficiency is still unanswered. In this paper, we analyzed the effect of RMEC on innovation efficiency considering both innovation inputs and outputs. We utilized data of 388 manufacturing enterprises in Korea, and performed data envelopment analysis (DEA) and tobit regression analysis. According to the result, firms show difference by industry type in terms of innovation efficiency and RMEC. Moreover, the effect of RMEC on innovation efficiency turned out to be negative. The result indicates a possibility that input used for innovation might overweigh the output yielded when firms pursue innovation for the RMEC.
Improving Simultaneous Cooling and Power Load-Following Capability for MGT-CCP Using Coordinated Predictive Controls
Authors: Chen Chen , Lin Jiangfan , Pan Lei , Lee Kwang Y. , Sun Li
Published: March 2019

The distributed energy system is an energy supply method built around the end users, which can achieve energy sustainability and reduce emissions compared to traditional centralized energy systems. The micro gas turbine (MGT)-based combined cooling and power (CCP) system has received renewed attention as an important distributed energy system technology due to its substantial energy savings and reduced emission levels. The task of the MGT-CCP system is to quickly adapt to changes in various renewable energy sources to maintain the balance in energy supply and demand in a distributed energy system. Therefore, it is imperative to improve the load tracking capability of the MGT-CCP system with advanced control technologies toward achieving this goal. However, the difficulty of controlling the MGT-CCP system is that the MGT responds very fast while CCP responds very slowly. To this end, the dynamic characteristics and nonlinear distribution of the MGT and CCP processes are analyzed, and a coordinated predictive control strategy is proposed by utilizing the generalized predictive control for the MGT system and the Hammerstein generalized predictive control for the CCP system. The coordinated predictive control of generalized predictive control and Hammerstein generalized predictive control was implemented in an 80 kW MGT-CCP simulator to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The simulation results show that compared with PID and MPC, the proposed control method not only can greatly improve simultaneous cooling and power load-following capability, but also has the best control effect when accessing with renewable energy.
A Horizon Optimization Control Framework for the Coordinated Operation of Multiple Distributed Energy Resources in Low Voltage Distribution Networks
Authors: Kotsalos Konstantinos , Miranda Ismael , Silva Nuno , Leite Helder
Published: March 2019

In recent years, the installation of residential Distributed Energy Resources (DER) that produce (mainly rooftop photovoltaics usually bundled with battery system) or consume (electric heat pumps, controllable loads, electric vehicles) electric power is continuously increasing in Low Voltage (LV) distribution networks. Several technical challenges may arise through the massive integration of DER, which have to be addressed by the distribution grid operator. However, DER can provide certain degree of flexibility to the operation of distribution grids, which is generally performed with temporal shifting of energy to be consumed or injected. This work advances a horizon optimization control framework which aims to efficiently schedule the LV network’s operation in day-ahead scale coordinating multiple DER. The main objectives of the proposed control is to ensure secure LV grid operation in the sense of admissible voltage bounds and rated loading conditions for the secondary transformer. The proposed methodology leans on a multi-period three-phase Optimal Power Flow (OPF) addressed as a nonlinear optimization problem. The resulting horizon control scheme is validated within an LV distribution network through multiple case scenarios with high microgeneration and electric vehicle integration providing admissible voltage limits and avoiding unnecessary active power curtailments.
Nonlinear Analysis of Built-in Sensor in Smart Device under the Condition of Voice Actuating
Authors: Zhao Ning , Liu Yuhe , Shen Junjie
Published: March 2019

A built-in sensor in a smart device, such as the accelerometer and the gyroscope, will produce an obvious nonlinear output when it receives voice signal. In this paper, based on the chaotic theory, the nonlinearity of smartphone built-in accelerometer is revealed by phase space reconstructing after we calculate several nonlinearity characteristics, such as best delay time, embedding dimension, and the attractor of accelerometer system, under the condition of voice commands inputting. The results of theoretical calculation and experiments show that this specific nonlinearity could lay a foundation for further signal extraction and analysis.
Stability of Periodic, Traveling-Wave Solutions to the Capillary Whitham Equation
Authors: Carter John D. , Rozman Morgan
Published: March 2019

Recently, the Whitham and capillary Whitham equations were shown to accurately model the evolution of surface waves on shallow water. In order to gain a deeper understanding of these equations, we compute periodic, traveling-wave solutions for both and study their stability. We present plots of a representative sampling of solutions for a range of wavelengths, wave speeds, wave heights, and surface tension values. Finally, we discuss the role these parameters play in the stability of these solutions.
Intrinsic Metric Formulas on Some Self-Similar Sets via the Code Representation
Authors: Güneri Melis , Saltan Mustafa
Published: March 2019

In recent years, intrinsic metrics have been described on various fractals with different formulas. The Sierpinski gasket is given as one of the fundamental models which defined the intrinsic metrics on them via the code representations of the points. In this paper, we obtain the explicit formulas of the intrinsic metrics on some self-similar sets (but not strictly self-similar), which are composed of different combinations of equilateral and right Sierpinski gaskets, respectively, by using the code representations of their points. We then express geometrical properties of these structures on their code sets and also give some illustrative examples.
Recent Progress in Photon Upconverting Gels
Authors: Bharmoria Pankaj , Yanai Nobuhiro , Kimizuka Nobuo
Published: March 2019

Recent progress in the development of gels showing triplet-triplet annihilation based photon upconversion (TTA-UC) is reviewed. Among the two families of upconverting gels reported, those display TTA-UC based on molecular diffusion show performances comparable to those in solutions, and the TTA-UC therein are affected by dissolved molecular oxygen. Meanwhile, air-stable TTA-UC is achieved in organogels and hydrogels by suitably accumulating TTA-UC chromophores which are stabilized by hydrogen bonding networks of the gelators. The unique feature of the air-stable upconverting gels is that the self-assembled nanostructures are protected from molecular oxygen dissolved in the microscopically interconnected solution phase. The presence of the bicontinuous structures formed by the upconverting fibrous nanoassemblies and the solution phase is utilized to design photochemical reaction systems induced by TTA-UC. Future challenges include in vivo applications of hydrogels showing near infrared-to-visible TTA-UC.
Neurocognitive Function and Quality of Life Outcomes in the ONTRAC Study for Skin Cancer Chemoprevention by Nicotinamide
Authors: Martin Andrew J. , Dhillon Haryana M. , Vardy Janette L. , Dalziell Robyn A. , Choy Bonita , Fernández-Peñas Pablo , Dixon Ann , Renton Corrinne , St George Gayathri , Chinniah Niranthari , Halliday Gary M. , Damian Diona L. , Chen Andrew C.
Published: March 2019

Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) has photoprotective effects and reduces skin cancer incidence in high risk patients. Nicotinamide also improves cognition in animal models. As part of the ONTRAC (Oral Nicotinamide To Reduce Actinic Cancer) phase III placebo-controlled, randomized trial to assess nicotinamide’s efficacy in skin cancer prevention, we included clinical neurocognitive function and patient-reported quality of life assessments at baseline and after 12 months of intervention in individuals with previous skin cancer in order to assess any effect of oral nicotinamide (500 mg po twice daily) on cognitive function and quality of life. In our sample of 310 participants who completed neurocognitive function testing at baseline and at 12 months, we were not able to detect any significant effect of oral nicotinamide on cognitive function nor on quality of life. Further studies of nicotinamide’s effects on cognition in humans might include individuals with pre-existing mild cognitive impairment, and it may be that higher doses of nicotinamide are required to significantly influence cognitive function compared to doses required to reduce skin cancer.
Experience of Documentation for the Accessibility of Widespread Cultural Heritage
Authors: Parrinello Sandro , Dell’Amico Anna
Published: March 2019

The will to preserve and enhance cultural heritage imposes reflections on databases as containers of information for the accessibility of dispersed heritage. The aim of the research is to validate methodological approaches in order to create 3D models and information systems. These tools improve accessibility to the artifact, according to different interconnection channels, in order to overcome the physical limit imposed by location. Tangible and intangible heritage take the form of a metadata network throughout a critical analysis and elaboration of data. These files create a complex database containing 3D models rich in information that describe cultural systems. The digital survey is the starting point for the development of languages, signs and symbols. It transfers complex objects into virtual systems, developing a multidimensional dialogue capable of integrating actions and meanings. The interactivity of complex databases facilitates the accessibility and disclosure of data to a wide audience. It requires the establishment of representation systems based on the development of virtual environments.
Impact of Gender and Age on Rapid Eye Movement-Related Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Clinical Study of 3234 Japanese OSA Patients
Authors: Mano Mamiko , Hoshino Tetsuro , Sasanabe Ryujiro , Murotani Kenta , Nomura Atsuhiko , Hori Reiko , Konishi Noriyuki , Baku Masayo , Shiomi Toshiaki
Published: March 2019

Rapid eye movement (REM)-related obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by apnea and hypopnea events due to airway collapse occurring predominantly or exclusively during REM sleep. Previous studies have reported that REM-related OSA occurs more commonly in women and younger individuals. However, external validity of this tendency has not been confirmed in a large clinical sample. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of gender and age on REM-related OSA after adjustment for several covariates based on their established clinical relationships to gender difference in OSA. A total of 3234 Japanese patients with OSA were enrolled in this study. We confirmed that female sex is an important risk factor for REM-related OSA, as reported by previous studies. Moreover, we showed that women aged over 50 years were at a greater risk than those aged under 50 years. These results suggest that hormonal changes in women might play an important role in REM-related OSA and might reflect its unknown pathophysiological characteristics.
Association of Consecutive Influenza Vaccinations and Pneumonia: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Yeh Liang-Tsai , Chan Chi-Ho , Yang Shun-Fa , Yeh Han-Wei , Yeh Ying-Tung , Wang Yu-Hsun , Chou Ming-Chih , Yeh Chao-Bin , Teng Ying-Hock
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether individuals receiving influenza vaccines have a lower risk of pneumonia. A nationwide population-based case-control study was conducted using data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We enrolled 7565 patients each in pneumonia and non-pneumonia groups after diagnosis of patients with chronic pulmonary disease, and these patients were individually age and sex matched in a 1:1 ratio. Using conditional logistic regression analysis, adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were estimated in patients who received influenza vaccination and those who had not previously had pneumonia. Moreover, we also analyzed the interval between vaccination and the onset of pneumonia and the number of vaccinations received by patients. This was compared with patients who never received influenza vaccination. Patients who had received influenza vaccination and had been vaccinated for two consecutive years (aOR = 0.85, confidence interval (CI) = 0.79–0.93 and aOR = 0.75, CI = 0.67–0.85, respectively) showed lower rates of pneumonia occurrence by 15–25%. In conclusion, influenza vaccination significantly reduces the occurrence of pneumonia, especially in individuals who receive vaccination in consecutive years.
Lack of Knowledge about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Implications for STDs Prevention and Care among Dermatology Patients in an Urban City in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Sau Huu , Dang Anh Kim , Vu Giang Thu , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Le Thu Hoai Thi , Truong Nu Thi , Hoang Chi Linh , Tran Tung Thanh , Tran Tung Hoang , Pham Hai Quang , Dao Nam Gia , Tran Bach Xuan , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: March 2019

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a substantial global burden of diseases, especially in developing countries. Lack of awareness of STDs may lead to a delay in treatment. This study aimed to assess knowledge about STDs and the associated factors among dermatological patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 622 patients at Vietnam National Hospital of Dermatology and Venereology (NHD). Structured questionnaires were used to investigate the knowledge about STDs. A multivariate Tobit regression was employed to determine factors associated with knowledge about STDs. The percentage of patients knowing that syphilis was an STD was highest (57.8%), followed by herpes warts (57.7%) and HIV/AIDS (57.4%). By contrast, 26.6% and 17.2% of patients knew that chlamydia and hepatitis C were STDs. The most commonly stated symptom of STDs was purulent genital (53.5%). Nearly two-thirds of participants were aware of the curability of STDs, and 34.7% knew about vaccines for STDs. Living with partners, young age, and acquired knowledge of STDs via the Internet, social networks, and health staff were positively related to having better knowledge about STDs. Based on the results of this study, peer education, informal conversations within clusters, mass community campaigns through the Internet and social networks, and the use of online health care providers should be promoted in order to improve awareness of STDs.
Environmental Burden of Childhood Disease in Europe
Authors: Rojas-Rueda David , Vrijheid Martine , Robinson Oliver , Gunn Marit Aasvang , Gražulevičienė Regina , Slama Remy , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark
Published: March 2019

Background: Environmental factors determine children’s health. Quantifying the health impacts related to environmental hazards for children is essential to prioritize interventions to improve health in Europe. Objective: This study aimed to assess the burden of childhood disease due to environmental risks across the European Union. Methods: We conducted an environmental burden of childhood disease assessment in the 28 countries of the EU (EU28) for seven environmental risk factors (particulate matter less than 10 micrometer of diameter (PM10) and less than 2.5 micrometer of diameter (PM2.5), ozone, secondhand smoke, dampness, lead, and formaldehyde). The primary outcome was disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), assessed from exposure data provided by the World Health Organization, Global Burden of Disease project, scientific literature, and epidemiological risk estimates. Results: The seven studied environmental risk factors for children in the EU28 were responsible for around 211,000 DALYs annually. Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) was the main environmental risk factor, producing 59% of total DALYs (125,000 DALYs), followed by secondhand smoke with 20% of all DALYs (42,500 DALYs), ozone 11% (24,000 DALYs), dampness 6% (13,000 DALYs), lead 3% (6200 DALYs), and formaldehyde 0.2% (423 DALYs). Conclusions: Environmental exposures included in this study were estimated to produce 211,000 DALYs each year in children in the EU28, representing 2.6% of all DALYs in children. Among the included environmental risk factors, air pollution (particulate matter and ozone) was estimated to produce the highest burden of disease in children in Europe, half of which was due to the effects of PM10 on infant mortality. Effective policies to reduce environmental pollutants across Europe are needed.
Antidiabetic and Cardioprotective Effects of Pharmacological Inhibition of GRK2 in db/db Mice
Authors: Cipolletta Ersilia , Gambardella Jessica , Fiordelisi Antonella , Del Giudice Carmine , Di Vaia Eugenio , Ciccarelli Michele , Sala Marina , Campiglia Pietro , Coscioni Enrico , Trimarco Bruno , Sorriento Daniela , Iaccarino Guido
Published: March 2019

Despite the availability of several therapies for the management of blood glucose in diabetic patients, most of the treatments do not show benefits on diabetic cardiomyopathy, while others even favor the progression of the disease. New pharmacological targets are needed that might help the management of diabetes and its cardiovascular complications at the same time. GRK2 appears a promising target, given its established role in insulin resistance and in systolic heart failure. Using a custom peptide inhibitor of GRK2, we assessed in vitro in L6 myoblasts the effects of GRK2 inhibition on glucose extraction and insulin signaling. Afterwards, we treated diabetic male mice (db/db) for 2 weeks. Glucose tolerance (IGTT) and insulin sensitivity (ITT) were ameliorated, as was skeletal muscle glucose uptake and insulin signaling. In the heart, at the same time, the GRK2 inhibitor ameliorated inflammatory and cytokine responses, reduced oxidative stress, and corrected patterns of fetal gene expression, typical of diabetic cardiomyopathy. GRK2 inhibition represents a promising therapeutic target for diabetes and its cardiovascular complications.
Accelerated CO2 Hydration with Thermostable Sulfurihydrogenibium azorense Carbonic Anhydrase-Chitin Binding Domain Fusion Protein Immobilised on Chitin Support
Authors: Hou Juan , Li Xingkang , Kaczmarek Michal B. , Chen Pengyu , Li Kai , Jin Peng , Liang Yuanmei , Daroch Maurycy
Published: March 2019

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) represent a group of enzymes that catalyse important reactions of carbon dioxide hydration and dehydration, a reaction crucial to many biological processes and environmental biotechnology. In this study we successfully constructed a thermostable fusion enzyme composed of the Sulfurihydrogenibium azorense carbonic anhydrase (Saz_CA), the fastest CA discovered to date, and the chitin binding domain (ChBD) of chitinase from Bacillus circulans. Introduction of ChBD to the Saz_CA had no major impact on the effect of ions or inhibitors on the enzymatic activity. The fusion protein exhibited no negative effects up to 60 °C, whilst the fusion partner appears to protect the enzyme from negative effects of magnesium. The prepared biocatalyst appears to be thermally activated at 60 °C and could be partially purified with heat treatment. Immobilisation attempts on different kinds of chitin-based support results have shown that the fusion enzyme preferentially binds to a cheap, untreated chitin with a large crystallinity index over more processed forms of chitin. It suggests significant potential economic benefits for large-scale deployment of immobilised CA technologies such as CO2 utilisation or mineralisation.
The Role of Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Protein Kinase C Delta in Infection and Inflammation
Authors: Yang Qingliang , Langston Jordan C. , Tang Yuan , Kiani Mohammad F. , Kilpatrick Laurie E.
Published: March 2019

Protein Kinase C (PKC) is a family composed of phospholipid-dependent serine/threonine kinases that are master regulators of inflammatory signaling. The activity of different PKCs is context-sensitive and these kinases can be positive or negative regulators of signaling pathways. The delta isoform (PKCδ) is a critical regulator of the inflammatory response in cancer, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies implicate PKCδ as an important regulator of the inflammatory response in sepsis. PKCδ, unlike other members of the PKC family, is unique in its regulation by tyrosine phosphorylation, activation mechanisms, and multiple subcellular targets. Inhibition of PKCδ may offer a unique therapeutic approach in sepsis by targeting neutrophil-endothelial cell interactions. In this review, we will describe the overall structure and function of PKCs, with a focus on the specific phosphorylation sites of PKCδ that determine its critical role in cell signaling in inflammatory diseases such as sepsis. Current genetic and pharmacological tools, as well as in vivo models, that are used to examine the role of PKCδ in inflammation and sepsis are presented and the current state of emerging tools such as microfluidic assays in these studies is described.
MicroRNA-29a Disrupts DNMT3b to Ameliorate Diet-Induced Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis in Mice
Authors: Yang Ya-Ling , Kuo Hsing-Chun , Wang Feng-Sheng , Huang Ying-Hsien
Published: March 2019

MicroRNA-29 (miR-29) has been found to reduce liver inflammation and fibrosis following a liver injury. Meanwhile, DNA methyltransferase has been reported to participate in the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aim of this study is to investigate the miR-29a regulation of methyltransferase signaling and epigenetic program in NASH progression. Methods: miR-29a transgenic mice (miR-29aTg mice) and wild-type littermates were subjected to the methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced animal model of NASH. Primary hepatic stellate cells were transfected with a miR-29a mimic and antisense inhibitor. We then analyzed gene expressions with qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical stain, Western blot, and luciferase reporter assay. The results demonstrated that increased miR-29a alleviated the MCD diet-induced body weight loss and steatosis and decreased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in mice. Furthermore, hepatic tissue in miR-29aTg mice displayed a weak fibrotic matrix, as shown with Sirius Red staining concomitant with low fibrotic α-SMA expression within affected tissues compared to the wild-type mice fed the MCD diet. Forced miR-29a expression reduced the MCD diet exaggeration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by immunohistochemically staining 8-OHdG. Increased miR-29a signaling also resulted in the downregulation of DNMT3b, TGF-β, IL-6, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), p-SMAD3, PI3K, and L3BII expression within the liver tissue. An in vitro luciferase reporter assay further confirmed that miR-29a mimic transfection reduced DNMT3b expression in primary HSCs. Our data provide new insights that miR-29a improves MCD diet-induced liver inflammation, steatosis and fibrosis, and highlight the potential of miR-29a targeted therapy for treating NASH.
Metabolic Inhibition Induces Transient Increase of L-type Ca2+ Current in Human and Rat Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Treinys Rimantas , Kanaporis Giedrius , Fischmeister Rodolphe , Jurevičius Jonas
Published: March 2019

Metabolic inhibition is a common condition observed during ischemic heart disease and heart failure. It is usually accompanied by a reduction in L-type Ca2+ channel (LTCC) activity. In this study, however, we show that metabolic inhibition results in a biphasic effect on LTCC current (ICaL) in human and rat cardiac myocytes: an initial increase of ICaL is observed in the early phase of metabolic inhibition which is followed by the more classical and strong inhibition. We studied the mechanism of the initial increase of ICaL in cardiac myocytes during β-adrenergic stimulation by isoprenaline, a non-selective agonist of β-adrenergic receptors. The whole-cell patch–clamp technique was used to record the ICaL in single cardiac myocytes. The initial increase of ICaL was induced by a wide range of metabolic inhibitors (FCCP, 2,4-DNP, rotenone, antimycin A). In rat cardiomyocytes, the initial increase of ICaL was eliminated when the cells were pre-treated with thapsigargin leading to the depletion of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). Similar results were obtained when Ca2+ release from the SR was blocked with ryanodine. These data suggest that the increase of ICaL in the early phase of metabolic inhibition is due to a reduced calcium dependent inactivation (CDI) of LTCCs. This was further confirmed in human atrial myocytes where FCCP failed to induce the initial stimulation of ICaL when Ca2+ was replaced by Ba2+, eliminating CDI of LTCCs. We conclude that the initial increase in ICaL observed during the metabolic inhibition in human and rat cardiomyocytes is a consequence of an acute reduction of Ca2+ release from SR resulting in reduced CDI of LTCCs.
Levan-Capped Silver Nanoparticles for Bactericidal Formulations: Release and Activity Modelling
Authors: González-Garcinuño Álvaro , Masa Rubén , Hernández María , Domínguez Ángel , Tabernero Antonio , del Valle Eva Martín
Published: March 2019

An environmentally friendly technique was used to produce levan-capped silver nanoparticles of about 30 nm (with a loading of 30%) that showed bactericide effect, for E. coli and B. subtilis. That effect was mathematically studied with a dose-response model (lethal dose of 12.4 ppm and 6.8 ppm respectively). These silver nanoparticles were subsequently introduced in a gel to create a silver release system with bacteria inhibition activity. Silver release from the gel and its bactericidal activity was theoretically studied to develop a unique model that is able to predict accurately both silver release and lethal dose for any type of bacteria. This model will be useful for performing predictions for future silver in gel applications.
Comparison the Effect of Ferutinin and 17β-Estradiol on Bone Mineralization of Developing Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Larvae
Authors: Zare Mirakabad Hoda , Farsi Mohammad , Malekzadeh Shafaroudi Saeed , Bagheri Abdolreza , Iranshahi Mehrdad , Moshtaghi Nasrin
Published: March 2019

There is an urgent need to develop novel drugs for osteoporosis which occurs due to estrogen deficiency. Phytoestrogens derived from medicinal plants would be the best alternative to chemical drugs with harmful side effects. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of ferutinin compared to 17β-estradiol (E2) on bone mineralization of zebrafish larvae. Regarding the lack of publications, the histology analysis was performed after exposure to E2 to find effective treatment on bone mineralization of developing zebrafish larvae. Then, the larvae were exposed to four concentrations of ferutinin at three time points to assess the mortality, the expression of some related genes and histology of the ceratohyal and hyomandibular of treated larvae. The RT-PCR result of the treatment groups demonstrated the similar expression pattern in the larvae which were exposed to 1.25 μg/mL of ferutinin and 2 µM of E2 at 2 dpf, which confirmed the result of histology analysis. In addition, RT-qPCR of high concentration of ferutinin and E2 demonstrated that bmp2a/b and esr1 were downregulated and upregulated when the larvae were exposed to 5 μg/mL of ferutinin and 10 µM of E2, respectively.
Tomentosin Displays Anti-Carcinogenic Effect in Human Osteosarcoma MG-63 Cells via the Induction of Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Lee Chang Min , Lee Jongsung , Nam Myeong Jin , Choi Youn Soo , Park See-Hyoung
Published: March 2019

Tomentosin is a natural sesquiterpene lactone extracted from various plants and is widely used as a medicine because it exhibits essential therapeutic properties. In this study, we investigated the anti-carcinogenic effects of tomentosin in human osteosarcoma MG-63 cells by performing cell migration/viability/proliferation, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis assays. MG-63 cells were treated with various doses of tomentosin. After treatment with tomentosin, MG-63 cells were analyzed using the MTT assay, colony formation assay, cell counting assay, wound healing assay, Boyden chamber assay, zymography assay, cell cycle analysis, FITC Annexin V apoptosis assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, western blot analysis, and ROS detection analysis. Our results indicated that tomentosin decreased cell viability and migration ability in MG-63 cells. Moreover, tomentosin induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, DNA damage, and ROS production in MG-63 cells. Furthermore, tomentosin-induced intracellular ROS decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and DNA damage in MG-63 cells. Taken together, our results suggested that tomentosin exerted anti-carcinogenic effects in MG-63 cells by induction of intracellular ROS.
Telomerase Impinges on the Cellular Response to Oxidative Stress Through Mitochondrial ROS-Mediated Regulation of Autophagy
Authors: Green Paula D. , Sharma Nilesh K. , Santos Janine Hertzog
Published: March 2019

Telomerase has cellular functions beyond telomere stabilization, including a role in mitochondria. The function of the catalytic component—TERT—in mitochondria is still unknown, but it seems to play a role in the response to oxidative stress. Here, we interrogated the role of the subcellular localization of TERT to the response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment. Using normal human fibroblasts (NHF) expressing non-tagged wild type (WT) human TERT (hTERT) or nuclear localization and function (nuchTERT), a mutant that we previously described as being competent in telomere elongation, while not being able to localize to mitochondria, we found the differential activation of autophagy as a function of hTERT’s subcellular localization. Specifically, we found that only cells expressing the mutant had significant increases in autophagy markers as a response to H2O2 challenge. Either the reintroduction of the mitochondrial pool of hTERT or the expression of mitochondrially-targeted catalase in mutant cells blunted the autophagic response under oxidative stress. Interestingly, autophagy activation was also associated with decreased levels of mitochondrial DNA damage. Taken together, these results suggest that the loss of hTERT in mitochondria initiates a signaling cascade that allows for cells to adapt to and cope with the lack of mitochondrial telomerase. Such effects also influence the cellular response to oxidative damage.
Connecting Western and Eastern Medicine from an Energy Perspective
Authors: Zhang Ming , Moalin Mohamed , Vervoort Lily , Li Zheng Wen , Wu Wen Bo , Haenen Guido
Published: March 2019

Although Western medicine and Eastern medicine are worlds apart, there is a striking overlap in the basic principle of these types of medicine when we look at them from the perspective of energy. In both worlds, opposing forces provide the energy that flows through networks in an organism, which fuels life. In this concept, health is the ability of an organism to maintain the balance between these opposing forces, i.e., homeostasis (West) and harmony (East), which creates resilience. Moreover, strategies used to treat diseases are strikingly alike, namely adjusting the flow of energy by changing the connections in the network. The energy perspective provides a basis to integrate Eastern and Western medicine, and opens new directions for research to get the best of both worlds.
Autophosphorylation of Orphan Receptor ERBB2 Can Be Induced by Extracellular Treatment with Mildly Alkaline Media
Authors: Serova Oxana V. , Chachina Natalia A. , Gantsova Elena A. , Popova Nadezhda V. , Petrenko Alexander G. , Deyev Igor E.
Published: March 2019

ErbB2 is an oncogene receptor tyrosine kinase linked to breast cancer. It is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) minifamily. ErbB2 is currently viewed as an orphan receptor since, by itself, it does not bind EGF-like ligands and can be activated only when overexpressed in malignant cells or complexed with ErbB3, another member of the EGFR minifamily. Here, we report that ErbB2 can be activated by extracellular application of mildly alkaline (pH 8–9) media to ErbB2-transfected cells. We also show that the activation of the ErbB2 receptor by alkali is dose-dependent and buffer-independent. The endogenous ErbB2 receptor of A431 cell line can also undergo alkali-dependent autophosphorylation. Thus, we describe a novel ligand-independent mechanism of ErbB2 receptor activation.
Computational Study for the Unbinding Routes of β-N-Acetyl-d-Hexosaminidase Inhibitor: Insight from Steered Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Hu Song , Zhao Xiao , Zhang Li
Published: March 2019

β-N-Acetyl-d-hexosaminidase from Ostrinia furnacalis (OfHex1) is a new target for the design of insecticides. Although some of its inhibitors have been found, there is still no commercial drug available at present. The residence time of the ligand may be important for its pharmacodynamic effect. However, the unbinding routes of ligands from OfHex1 still remain largely unexplored. In the present study, we first simulated the six dissociation routes of N,N,N-trimethyl-d-glucosamine-chitotriomycin (TMG-chitotriomycin, a highly selective inhibitor of OfHex1) from the active pocket of OfHex1 by steered molecular dynamics simulations. By comparing the potential of mean forces (PMFs) of six routes, Route 1 was considered as the most possible route with the lowest energy barrier. Furthermore, the structures of six different states for Route 1 were snapshotted, and the key amino acid residues affecting the dissociated time were analyzed in the unbinding pathway. Moreover, we also analyzed the “open–close” mechanism of Glu368 and Trp448 and found that their conformational changes directly affected the dissociation of TMG-chitotriomycin. Our findings would be helpful to understanding and identifying novel inhibitors against OfHex1 from virtual screening or lead-optimization.
Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Is Involved in Cadmium-Induced Inhibition of Osteoblast Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Wu Lu , Wei Qinzhi , Lv Yingjian , Xue Junchao , Zhang Bo , Sun Qian , Xiao Tian , Huang Rui , Wang Ping , Dai Xiangyu , Xia Haibo , Li Junjie , Yang Xingfen , Liu Qizhan
Published: March 2019

Cadmium is a common environmental pollutant that causes bone damage. However, the effects of cadmium on the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and its mechanism of action in this process are unclear. Here, we determined the effects of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on the osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs and the potential mechanism involved in this process. As determined in the present investigation, CdCl2, in a concentration-dependent manner, affected the viability of BMMSCs and their cytoskeletons. Exposure to 0.1 or 0.2 µM CdCl2 inhibited osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs, which was reflected in the down-regulation of osteoblast-related genes (ALP, OCN, Runx2, OSX, and OPN); in suppression of the protein expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2); and in decreased ALP activity and capacity for mineralization. Moreover, mRNA microarray was performed to determine the roles of these factors in BMMSCs treated with CdCl2 in comparison to control BMMSCs. As determined with the microarrays, the Wingless-type (Wnt), mothers against decapentaplegic and the C. elegans gene Sam (SMAD), and Janus kinase-Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathways were involved in the effects caused by CdCl2. Moreover, during differentiation, the protein levels of Wnt3a, β-catenin, lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (LEF1), and T-cell factor 1 (TCF1) were reduced by CdCl2. The current research shows that CdCl2 suppresses the osteogenesis of BMMSCs via inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The results establish a previously unknown mechanism for bone injury induced by CdCl2.
Mental Health and Proximal Stressors in Transgender Men and Women
Authors: Fernández-Rouco Noelia , Carcedo Rodrigo J. , López Félix , Orgaz M. Begoña
Published: March 2019

This paper explores the subjective perception of some personal and interpersonal aspects of the lives of transgender people and the relationship they have with their mental health. One hundred and twenty transgender people (60 men and 60 women) participated in semi-structured interviews. Following quantitative methodology, analysis highlighted that social loneliness is the main predictor of lower levels of mental health (anxiety and depression) for both genders and recognized romantic loneliness as the strongest factor among transgender men. In both cases, higher levels of loneliness were associated with lower levels of mental health. The results have guided us to improve institutional and social responses and have provided an opportunity to promote the mental health of transgender people.
Feasibility Study of the Secondary Level Active School Flag Programme: Study Protocol
Authors: Ng Kwok W , McHale Fiona , Cotter Karen , O’Shea Donal , Woods Catherine
Published: March 2019

Taking part in regular physical activity (PA) is important for young adolescents to maintain physical, social and mental health. Schools are vibrant settings for health promotion and the complexity of driving a whole-school approach to PA has not been tested in the Irish school context. The feasibility of the pilot programme of the Department of Education and Skills second level Active School Flag (SLASF) is needed. SLASF is a two year process that consists of the Active School Flag (ASF) certificate programme (year 1) and the ASF flag programme (year 2). This protocol paper is specific to the first year certificate process. Three schools around Ireland were recruited as pilot schools to carry out the year-long SLASF programme with 17 planned actions involving the entire school. Students in the transition year programme have a particular role in the promotion of PA in SLASF. Data collection consists of physical measures, accelerometers, survey data and interviews at the beginning and the end of the academic year. The primary focus on the feasibility of the programme is through process evaluation tools and fidelity checks consisting of implementation of the SLASF programme through whole-school surveys, focus group discussions of key stakeholder groups, as well as one-to-one interviews with a member of management at each school and the SLASF coordinator of the school. Secondary outcomes include PA levels and its social cognitive theories based correlates through physical health measures, surveys carried out pre- and post-intervention, as well as focus group discussions of the students. The results of this study are needed to improve the development of the SLASF through a predetermined stopping criteria and inclusion into systems thinking approaches such as the Healthy Ireland Demonstration Project.
1-[(1S,2S)-1,2-Bis(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-pivaloylaminoethylamino]-2,2-dimethyl-1-propanone
Authors: Lugemwa Fulgentius
Published: March 2019

When 2-[(1S,2S)-1,2-diamino-2(2-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl]phenol (I) was reacted with 2 mole equivalents of trimethyl acetic (pivalic) anhydride in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature, 1-[(1S,2S)-1,2-bis(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-pivaloylaminoethylamino]-2,2-dimethyl-1-propanone (II) was obtained quantitatively as the only product. The structure of the product was determined using 1H- and 13C-NMR. The COSY spectrum indicated that the single –NH was coupled to the single benzylic proton, –CH. The versality of the transformation could be used to generate additional compounds for use in various research areas.
Control of Dopant Distribution in Yttrium-Doped Bioactive Glass for Selective Internal Radiotherapy Applications Using Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Hadush Tesfay Abadi , Chou Yu-Jen , Tan Cheng-Yan , Fufa Bakare Fetene , Tsou Nien-Ti , Huang E-Wen , Shih Shao-Ju
Published: March 2019

In this study, we demonstrate the fabrication of Y-doped bioactive glass (BG), which is proposed as a potential material for selective internal radiotherapy applications. Owing to its superior bioactivity and biodegradability, it overcomes the problem of yttrium aluminosilicate spheres that remain in the host body for a long duration after treatment. The preparation of Y-doped BG powders were carried out using a spray pyrolysis method. By using two different yttrium sources, we examine the change of the local distribution of yttrium concentration. In addition, characterizations of phase information, particle morphologies, surface areas, and bioactivity were also performed. The results show that both Y-doped BG powders are bioactive and the local Y distribution can be controlled.
Preparation, Characterization, and Stability Evaluation of Taste-Masking Lacosamide Microparticles
Authors: Han Chang-Soo , Kim Seungsu , Oh Dong-Won , Yoon Jeong Yeol , Park Eun-Seok , Rhee Yun-Seok , Kim Ju-Young , Shin Dae Hwan , Kim Dong-Wook , Park Chun-Woong
Published: March 2019

Lacosamide (LCM) is a third-generation antiepileptic drug. Selective action of the drug on voltage-gated sodium channels reduces side effects. Oral administration of LCM shows good pharmacokinetic profile. However, the bitter taste of LCM is a barrier to the development of oral formulations. In this study, we aimed to prepare encapsulated LCM microparticles (MPs) for masking its bitter taste. Encapsulated LCM MPs were prepared with Eudragit® E100 (E100), a pH-dependent polymer, by spray drying. Three formulations comprising different ratios of LCM and E100 (3:1, 1:1, and 1:3) were prepared. Physicochemical tests showed that LCM was in an amorphous state in the prepared formulations, and they were not miscible. LCM-E100 (1:3) had a rough surface due to surface enrichment of LCM. Increased E100 ratio in LCM-E100 MPs resulted in better taste-making effectiveness: LCM-E100 (1:1) and LCM-E100 (1:3) showed good taste-masking effectiveness, while LCM-E100 (3:1) could not mask the bitter taste of LCM. Dissolution results of the prepared formulations showed good correlation with taste-masking effectiveness. Nevertheless, high E100 ratio reduced the stability of the prepared formulations. Especially the difference in initial dissolution profile observed for LCM-E100 (1:3) indicated rapid reduction in taste-masking effectiveness and surface recrystallization. Therefore, LCM-E100 formulation in the ratio of 1:1 was selected as the best formulation with good taste-masking effectiveness and stability.
The Multivariate Theory of Connections
Authors: Mortari Daniele , Leake Carl
Published: March 2019

This paper extends the univariate Theory of Connections, introduced in (Mortari, 2017), to the multivariate case on rectangular domains with detailed attention to the bivariate case. In particular, it generalizes the bivariate Coons surface, introduced by (Coons, 1984), by providing analytical expressions, called constrained expressions, representing all possible surfaces with assigned boundary constraints in terms of functions and arbitrary-order derivatives. In two dimensions, these expressions, which contain a freely chosen function, g ( x , y ) , satisfy all constraints no matter what the g ( x , y ) is. The boundary constraints considered in this article are Dirichlet, Neumann, and any combinations of them. Although the focus of this article is on two-dimensional spaces, the final section introduces the Multivariate Theory of Connections, validated by mathematical proof. This represents the multivariate extension of the Theory of Connections subject to arbitrary-order derivative constraints in rectangular domains. The main task of this paper is to provide an analytical procedure to obtain constrained expressions in any space that can be used to transform constrained problems into unconstrained problems. This theory is proposed mainly to better solve PDE and stochastic differential equations.
The Evolution of Mathematical Thinking in Chinese Mathematics Education
Authors: Li Na , Mok Ida Ah Chee , Cao Yiming
Published: March 2019

Mathematical thinking (MT) has been one of the most important goals for mathematics education as it can support sustainable mathematics learning. Its role in school mathematics has recently been explicitly identified as one of “Four Basics” in the latest national curriculum standard for compulsory education, which is seen as one of the prominent features of Chinese mathematics education. This paper reviewed definitions, descriptions, and explanations from a historical perspective and aimed to provide a comprehensive and contemporary conceptualization for MT in a Chinese context, which can be applied as a comparison to MT in English works. To achieve this, document analysis was applied in this study. Major official documents, papers, and books were reviewed to see the process of MT conceptualization given by the policy makers and researchers. Results indicated that MT places more emphasis on the process of mathematical methods application in problem solving, such as the method of combination of symbolic and graphic mathematics. Mathematical thought is also recommended by Chinese researchers to help students think like mathematicians. Another major characteristic is that the classification of major types of MT is usually focused on that which can make the concept more understandable.