bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Source Apportionment of Summertime Volatile Organic Compounds in a Fast Developing City in the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhao Yu , Zhao Qiuyue , Shen Guofeng , Liu Qian , Li Chunyan , Zhou Derong , Wang Shekou
Published: September 2018

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are crucial for ozone formation in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) in China. The characteristics of ambient VOCs in Nantong, a fast developing city in the YRD, were studied. Sixty ambient air samples were taken at five sites in three sampling days during summer time. One hundred and five VOCs were measured, showing that VOC concentration varied between 27.5 ppbv to 33.1 ppbv at five sites; these levels were generally lower than those for some big Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing. With larger fractions of alkanes, the Zilang (ZL) and Sanqu (SQ) sites had relatively higher VOC concentrations among the five sites. The oxidation formation potential (OFP) and secondary aerosol formation potential (SOAFP) were estimated to be 125 μg/m3 and 0.76 μg/m3, respectively. These two values were smaller than those in other big cities, as they were dominated by aromatic compounds (e.g., toluene and benzene) of which concentrations in Nantong were found to be lower. The highest toluene concentration was measured in ZL, implying substantial effects of surface coating industry near the site. Through the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model, the identified sources of VOCs included LPG (Liquefied petroleum gas) combustion (13.9%), chemical industry (8.5%), natural gas use (15.6%), gasoline evaporation (12.8%), petrol industry use (11.8%), solvent use (16.2%) vehicle exhausts (12.1%) and surface coating (9.2%). A relatively small contribution from vehicles was found in Nantong compared with other big cities. Moreover, LPG emissions were identified to be relatively important in Nantong, indicated by the large mass fraction of propane and ethane concentrations in the atmosphere.
Combined Effect of Bortezomib and Menadione Sodium Bisulfite on Proteasomes of Tumor Cells: The Dramatic Decrease of Bortezomib Toxicity in a Preclinical Trial
Authors: Astakhova Tatiana M. , Morozov Alexey V. , Erokhov Pavel A. , Mikhailovskaya Maria I. , Akopov Sergey B. , Chupikova Natalia I. , Safarov Ruslan R. , Sharova Natalia P.
Published: September 2018

Tumor growth is associated with elevated proteasome expression and activity. This makes proteasomes a promising target for antitumor drugs. Current antitumor drugs such as bortezomib that inhibit proteasome activity have significant side effects. The purpose of the present study was to develop effective low-toxic antitumor compositions with combined effects on proteasomes. For compositions, we used bortezomib in amounts four and ten times lower than its clinical dose, and chose menadione sodium bisulfite (MSB) as the second component. MSB is known to promote oxidation of NADH, generate superoxide radicals, and as a result damage proteasome function in cells that ensure the relevance of MSB use for the composition development. The proteasome pool was investigated by the original native gel electrophoresis method, proteasome chymotrypsin-like activity—by Suc-LLVY-AMC-hydrolysis. For the compositions, we detected 10 and 20 μM MSB doses showing stronger proteasome-suppressing and cytotoxic in cellulo effects on malignant cells than on normal ones. MSB indirectly suppressed 26S-proteasome activity in cellulo, but not in vitro. At the same time, MSB together with bortezomib displayed synergetic action on the activity of all proteasome forms in vitro as well as synergetic antitumor effects in cellulo. These findings determine the properties of the developed compositions in vivo: antitumor efficiency, higher (against hepatocellular carcinoma and mammary adenocarcinoma) or comparable to bortezomib (against Lewis lung carcinoma), and drastically reduced toxicity (LD50) relative to bortezomib. Thus, the developed compositions represent a novel generation of bortezomib-based anticancer drugs combining high efficiency, low general toxicity, and a potentially expanded range of target tumors.
Microfluidic Devices for Label-Free DNA Detection
Authors: Dutta Gorachand , Rainbow Joshua , Zupancic Uros , Papamatthaiou Sotirios , Estrela Pedro , Moschou Despina
Published: September 2018

Sensitive and specific DNA biomarker detection is critical for accurately diagnosing a broad range of clinical conditions. However, the incorporation of such biosensing structures in integrated microfluidic devices is often complicated by the need for an additional labelling step to be implemented on the device. In this review we focused on presenting recent advances in label-free DNA biosensor technology, with a particular focus on microfluidic integrated devices. The key biosensing approaches miniaturized in flow-cell structures were presented, followed by more sophisticated microfluidic devices and higher integration examples in the literature. The option of full DNA sequencing on microfluidic chips via nanopore technology was highlighted, along with current developments in the commercialization of microfluidic, label-free DNA detection devices.
Role of the Gut–Liver Axis in Driving Parenteral Nutrition-Associated Injury
Authors: Denton Christine , Price Amber , Friend Julie , Manithody Chandrashekhara , Blomenkamp Keith , Westrich Matthew , Kakarla Vindhya , Phillips William , Krebs Joseph , Munoz Abraham Armando Salim , Osei Hector , Jain Ajay
Published: September 2018

For decades, parenteral nutrition (PN) has been a successful method for intravenous delivery of nutrition and remains an essential therapy for individuals with intolerance of enteral feedings or impaired gut function. Although the benefits of PN are evident, its use does not come without a significant risk of complications. For instance, parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD)—a well-described cholestatic liver injury—and atrophic changes in the gut have both been described in patients receiving PN. Although several mechanisms for these changes have been postulated, data have revealed that the introduction of enteral nutrition may mitigate this injury. This observation has led to the hypothesis that gut-derived signals, originating in response to the presence of luminal contents, may contribute to a decrease in damage to the liver and gut. This review seeks to present the current knowledge regarding the modulation of what is known as the “gut–liver axis” and the gut-derived signals which play a role in PN-associated injury.
Data Driven Approach to the Dynamics of Import and Export of G7 Countries
Authors: Teza Gianluca , Caraglio Michele , Stella Attilio L.
Published: September 2018

The dynamics of imports plus exports of 226 product classes by the G7 countries between 1962 and 2000 is described in terms of stochastic differential equations. The model allows interesting comparisons among the different economies related to the compositions of the national baskets. Synthetic solutions can also be used to estimate hidden and unexploited growth potentials. These prerogatives are strictly connected with the fact that a network structure is at the basis of the model. Such a network expresses the mutual influences of different products through resource transfers, and is a key ingredient producing cooperative growth effects which can be quantified and distinguished from those generated by deterministic drifts and representing direct resource inputs. An analysis of this network, which differs substantially from those previously considered within the economic complexity approach, allows to estimate the centrality of different products in each national basket, highlighting the most essential commodities for each economy. Solutions of the model give the possibility of performing counterfactual analyses aimed at estimating how much the growth of each country could have profited from a general strengthening, or weakening, of the links in the same products network.
Detecting and Reducing Biases in Cellular-Based Mobility Data Sets
Authors: Rodriguez-Carrion Alicia , Garcia-Rubio Carlos , Campo Celeste
Published: September 2018

Correctly estimating the features characterizing human mobility from mobile phone traces is a key factor to improve the performance of mobile networks, as well as for mobility model design and urban planning. Most related works found their conclusions on location data based on the cells where each user sends or receives calls or messages, data known as Call Detail Records (CDRs). In this work, we test if such data sets provide enough detail on users’ movements so as to accurately estimate some of the most studied mobility features. We perform the analysis using two different data sets, comparing CDRs with respect to an alternative data collection approach. Furthermore, we propose three filtering techniques to reduce the biases detected in the fraction of visits per cell, entropy and entropy rate distributions, and predictability. The analysis highlights the need for contextualizing mobility results with respect to the data used, since the conclusions are biased by the mobile phone traces collection approach.
Weighted Block Sparse Recovery Algorithm for High Resolution DOA Estimation with Unknown Mutual Coupling
Authors: Meng Dandan , Wang Xianpeng , Huang Mengxing , Shen Chong , Bi Guoan
Published: September 2018

Based on weighted block sparse recovery, a high resolution direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation algorithm is proposed for data with unknown mutual coupling. In our proposed method, a new block representation model based on the array covariance vectors is firstly formulated to avoid the influence of unknown mutual coupling by utilizing the inherent structure of the steering vector. Then a weighted l 1 -norm penalty algorithm is proposed to recover the block sparse matrix, in which the weighted matrix is constructed based on the principle of a novel Capon space spectrum function for increasing the sparsity of solution. Finally, the DOAs can be obtained from the position of the non-zero blocks of the recovered sparse matrix. Due to the use of the whole received data of array and the enhanced sparsity of solution, the proposed method effectively avoids the loss of the array aperture to achieve a better estimation performance in the environment of unknown mutual coupling in terms of both spatial resolution and accuracy. Simulation experiments show the proposed method achieves better performance than other existing algorithms to minimize the effects of unknown mutual coupling.
FPGA Eco Unit Commitment Based Gravitational Search Algorithm Integrating Plug-in Electric Vehicles
Authors: ElAzab Heba-Allah I. , Swief R. A. , Issa Hanady H. , El-Amary Noha H. , Balbaa Alsnosy , Temraz H. K.
Published: September 2018

Smart grid architecture is one of the difficult constructions in electrical power systems. The main feature is divided into three layers; the first layer is the power system level and operation, the second layer is the sensor and the communication devices, which collect the data, and the third layer is the microprocessor or the machine, which controls the whole operation. This hierarchy is working from the third layer towards first layer and vice versa. This paper introduces an eco unit commitment study, that scheduling both conventional power plants (three IEEE) thermal plants) as a dispatchable distributed generators, with renewable energy resources (wind, solar) as a stochastic distributed generating units; and plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), which can be contributed either loads or generators relied on the charging timetable in a trustworthy unit commitment. The target of unit commitment study is to minimize the combined eco costs by integrating more augmented clean and renewable energy resource with the help of field programming gate array (FPGA) layer installation. A meta-heuristic algorithm, such as the Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), proves its accuracy and efficiency in reducing the incorporated cost function implicating costs of CO2 emission by optimally integrating and scheduling stochastic resources and charging and discharging processes of PEVs with conventional resources power plants. The results obtained from GSA are compared with a conventional numerical technique, such as the Dynamic Programming (DP) algorithm. The feasibility to implement GSA on an appropriate hardware platform, such as FPGA, is also discussed.
Cooling Performance Characteristics of 20 Ah Lithium-Ion Pouch Cell with Cold Plates along Both Surfaces
Authors: Patil Mahesh Suresh , Panchal Satyam , Kim Namwon , Lee Moo-Yeon
Published: September 2018

Temperature control of the lithium-ion pouch cells is crucial for smooth operation, longevity and enhanced safety in the battery-operated electric vehicles. Investigating the thermal behavior of lithium-ion pouch cells and optimizing the cooling performance are required to accomplish better performance, long life, and enhanced safety. In the present study, the cooling performance characteristics of 20 Ah lithium-ion pouch cell with cold plates along both surfaces are investigated by varying the inlet coolant mass flow rates and the inlet coolant temperatures. The inlet coolant mass flow rate is varied from 0.000833 kg/s to 0.003333 kg/s, and the inlet coolant temperature is varied from 5 °C to 35 °C. In addition, the effects of the cold plate geometry parameter on cooling performance of 20 Ah lithium-ion pouch cell are studied by varying the number of the channels from 4 to 10. The maximum temperature and difference between the maximum and the minimum temperatures are considered as important criteria for cooling performance evaluation of the 20 Ah lithium-ion pouch cell with cold plates along both surfaces. The cooling energy efficiency parameter (β) and the pressure drop for 20 Ah lithium-ion pouch cell with cold plates along both surfaces are also reported. The study shows that enhanced cooling energy efficiency is accompanied with low inlet coolant temperature, low inlet coolant mass flow rate, and a high number of the cooling channels. As a result, the temperature distribution, the pressure drop, and the cooling energy efficiency parameter (β) of the 20 Ah lithium-ion pouch cell with cold plates along both surfaces are provided, and could be applied for optimizing the cooling performances of the thermal management system for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles.
Thermal Properties of Solar Collector Comprising Oscillating Heat Pipe in a Flat-Plate Structure and Water Heating System in Low-Temperature Conditions
Authors: Gao Yuhang , Gao Chao , Xian Haizhen , Du Xiaoze
Published: September 2018

Solar collectors are very important to the photothermal utilization of solar energy in low-temperature conditions. In this paper, a solar collector comprising an oscillating heat pipe in a flat-plate structure is designed and studied experimentally. The thermal properties are studied in detail, and we finally obtain the startup temperature and the expression of the instantaneous efficiency with a relative error of 5%. The results show that the impact of inclination angles on the startup properties of the solar collector is significant to the thermal properties. The comparisons of the efficiency of the present design and similar products are also displayed and discussed, showing that an oscillating heat pipe collector in a flat-plate structure overcomes the low efficiency, high startup temperature and bad pressure resistance of conventional solar collectors. In addition, the thermal properties of the water heating system based on the novel collector were also tested, illustrating the differences between the solar irradiance and the water heating system. Some improvements (e.g., shell material and assembly method) were made in this system design process to increase the heat transfer efficiency and solve the corrosion and pressure resistance problems.
Decentralized Energy Management of Networked Microgrid Based on Alternating-Direction Multiplier Method
Authors: Feng Changsen , Wen Fushuan , Zhang Lijun , Xu Chenbo , Salam Md. Abdus , You Shi
Published: September 2018

With the ever-intensive utilization of distributed generators (DGs) and smart devices, distribution networks are evolving from a hierarchal structure to a distributed structure, which imposes significant challenges to network operators in system dispatch. A distributed energy-management method for a networked microgrid (NM) is proposed to coordinate a large number of DGs for maintaining secure and economic operations in the electricity-market environment. A second-order conic programming model is used to formulate the energy-management problem of an NM. Network decomposition was first carried out, and then a distributed solution for the established optimization model through invoking alternating-direction method of multipliers (ADMM). A modified IEEE 33-bus power system was finally utilized to demonstrate the performance of distributed energy management in an NM.
Influence of Crowd Participation Features on Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: Yuan Peiyan , Pang Xiaoxiao , Zhao Xiaoyan
Published: September 2018

Mobile edge computing is a new communication paradigm, which stores content close to the end users, so as to reduce the backhaul delay and alleviate the traffic load of the backbone networks. Crowd participation is one of the most striking features of this technology, and it enables numerous interesting applications. The dynamics of crowd participation offer unprecedented opportunities for both content caching and data forwarding. In this paper, we investigate the influence of the dynamics of crowd participation, from the perspective of opportunistic caching and forwarding, and discuss how we can exploit such opportunities to allocate content and select relays efficiently. Some existing issues in this emerging research area are also discussed.
Chitosan Coating Inhibits the Growth of Listeria monocytogenes and Extends the Shelf Life of Vacuum-Packed Pork Loins at 4 °C
Authors: Serio Annalisa , Chaves-López Clemencia , Sacchetti Giampiero , Rossi Chiara , Paparella Antonello
Published: September 2018

Chitosan coating is a promising method for food preservation. This study aims to fill the data gap regarding the application of chitosan (1% and 2%) on vacuum-packed fresh pork stored at 4 °C for 28 days, with particular attention on the effect on Listeria monocytogenes, inoculated as a cocktail of three strains. Chitosan at both concentrations was able to significantly reduce L. monocytogenes counts by more than 1.5 Log CFU/g with respect to control; moreover, it inhibited the growth of mesophilic bacteria and was particularly effective on lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. The beneficial effects on shelf life were demonstrated by both panel test and pH evolution. In fact, panellists did not detect any sensory difference between samples treated with 1% chitosan and control up to 14 days of storage, while after 28 days, a pungent flesh odour was perceived in control samples only. Interestingly, at aw values of fresh meat (0.984), the chitosan coating exhibited a liquid behaviour, with a dynamic viscosity of 229.4 ± 4.2 mPa/s. Chitosan coating applied on vacuum-packed pork loins contained L. monocytogenes growth and improved the microbiological characteristics of the product, with a beneficial effect on product shelf life.
Carcass Quality, Meat Quality and Sensory Properties of the Dual-Purpose Chicken Lohmann Dual
Authors: Siekmann Lisa , Meier-Dinkel Lisa , Janisch Sabine , Altmann Brianne , Kaltwasser Claudia , Sürie Christian , Krischek Carsten
Published: September 2018

Over 40 million day-old layer line cockerels are culled in Germany each year, due to economic reasons, leading to a recently instigated research focus on the potential of dual-purpose breeds as an alternative to conventional poultry husbandry, especially the practice of culling. This paper aims to explore and assess the dual-purpose chicken breed “Lohmann Dual” (LD) performance (n = 30) and sensory characteristics (n = 48). Carcass and meat quality traits are evaluated, and descriptive sensory analysis of breast muscles is conducted. To define the scope of characteristics, a market sample of “Ross” Line (n = 35) is adducted. LD carcasses are characterized by higher leg than breast yield; carcass, breast and leg weights are higher in Ross. LD meat has a lower pH, differs in color, has higher drip and thawing losses, but lower cooking loss. LD breast muscles are firmer as indicated by shear force measurements, which is confirmed through the sensory analysis. Appearance, odor and flavor differ between the lines. Overall, distinguishable differences are found between both breeds. Further research should focus on the marketing aspect of the dual-purpose line, as some characteristics could draw consumers to this product. Animal welfare and ethical concerns should further be considered when considering dual-purpose breeds as a feasible alternative to culling.
Risk Assessment of Histamine in Chilled, Frozen, Canned and Semi-Preserved Fish in Morocco; Implementation of Risk Ranger and Recommendations to Risk Managers
Authors: El Hariri Oleya , Bouchriti Nourredine , Bengueddour Rachid
Published: September 2018

A risk assessment of histamine was conducted for different categories of fishery products in the market. Risk estimates were assessed using the Risk Ranger tool. The estimated risks associated with the consumption of canned, semi-preserved and frozen fish are lower than those associated with fresh fish. According to the hypotheses of application or not of the histamine control measures, two risk levels were calculated for each product. The highest risk is associated to sardine with a score of 35 (equivalent to 39 patients per year). With the application of control measures, the score decreases to 20 (equivalent to one patient per year) with a reduction of 38 patients estimated per year. The risk ranking for frozen fish varies between zero (1 patient for 1000 years) and 11 (three patients for 1000 years). For semi-preserved fish, it ranges from zero to 21. For canned fish, the risk ranking varies between 12 (five patients for 1000 years) and 21 (15 patients for 100 years). As a result, most Moroccan seafood products are classified as “low risk”. However, it is recommended that risk managers maintain the adopted measures, strengthen interventions upstream in the food chain and that professionals maintain the HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) system effectively.
Curcumin, Cardiometabolic Health and Dementia
Authors: Kim Yoona , Clifton Peter
Published: September 2018

Current research indicates curcumin [diferuloylmethane; a polyphenolic compound isolated from the rhizomes of the dietary spice turmeric (Curcuma longa)] exerts a beneficial effect on health which may be partly attributable to its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this review is to examine potential mechanisms of the actions of curcumin in both animal and human studies. Curcumin modulates relevant molecular target pathways to improve glucose and lipid metabolism, suppress inflammation, stimulate antioxidant enzymes, facilitate insulin signalling and reduce gut permeability. Curcumin also inhibits Aβ and tau accumulation in animal models and enhances mitochondria and synaptic function. In conclusion, in high-dose animal studies and in vitro, curcumin exerts a potential beneficial effect on cardiometabolic disease. However, human studies are relatively unconvincing. More intervention studies should be conducted with the new curcumin formulation with improved oral bioavailability.
Differences in the Incidence of Symptomatic Cervical and Lumbar Disc Herniation According to Age, Sex and National Health Insurance Eligibility: A Pilot Study on the Disease’s Association with Work
Authors: Kim Young-Ki , Kang Dongmug , Lee Ilho , Kim Se-Yeong
Published: September 2018

The aim of this research was to identify the differences in the incidence of symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation according to age, sex, and national health insurance eligibility. We evaluated the hospital documents of patients who received medical treatment for symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation between 2004 and 2010 and excluded those who claimed to have expenses at oriental medical clinics or pharmacies. Furthermore, any duplicate documents from the labor force population aged 20–69 years were excluded from the analysis. The results showed that the number of individuals diagnosed with symptomatic cervical and lumbar disc herniation increased with age, and the incidence of these diseases was higher in women than in men. Additionally, the incidence differed depending on the subject’s qualification for health insurance. The incidence of lumbar disc herniation showed differences depending on the degree of the lumbar burden. The present study findings may help determine whether lumbar disc herniation is associated with tasks performed at the patient’s workplace. Further research is needed to classify the risk of lumbar disk herniation in the workplace into detailed categories such as types of business, types of occupation, and lumbar compression force.
Subjective Symptoms of Male Workers Linked to Occupational Pesticide Exposure on Coffee Plantations in the Jarabacoa Region, Dominican Republic
Authors: Hutter Hans-Peter , Kundi Michael , Lemmerer Kathrin , Poteser Michael , Weitensfelder Lisbeth , Wallner Peter , Moshammer Hanns
Published: September 2018

Acute and sub-acute effects of pesticide use in coffee farmers have rarely been investigated. In the present field study, self-reported health symptoms from 38 male pesticide users were compared to those of 33 organic farmers. Results of cytological findings have been reported in an accompanying paper in this issue. The present second part of the study comprises a questionnaire based survey for various, potentially pesticide related symptoms among the coffee farmers. Symptom rates were generally higher in exposed workers, reaching significance in nine out of 19 assessed symptoms. Significantly increased symptom frequencies were related to neurotoxicity, parasympathic effects and acetylcholine esterase inhibition, with the highest differences found for excessive salivation, dizziness and stomach ache. We revealed a lack of precautionary measures in the majority of farmers. Better education, regulations, and safety equipment are urgently needed.
Determination and Prediction of Respirable Dust and Crystalline-Free Silica in the Taiwanese Foundry Industry
Authors: Kuo Ching-Tang , Chiu Fen-Fen , Bao Bo-Ying , Chang Ta-Yuan
Published: September 2018

Background: Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) has been recognized as a human carcinogen; however, the measurement and analysis of RCS in small-scale foundries is rare and difficult. This study aimed to measure respirable dust and RCS levels among 236 foundry workers in Taiwan and used these data to establish predictive models for personal exposure. Methods: Personal sampling of various production processes were measured gravimetrically and analyzed using the X-ray diffraction method. Multiple linear regression was used to establish predictive models. Results: Foundry workers were exposed to geometric means and geometric standard deviations of 0.52 ± 4.0 mg/m3 and 0.027 ± 15 mg/m3 for respirable dust and RCS, respectively. The highest exposure levels were observed among workers in the sand blasting process, with geometric means of 1.6 mg/m3 and 0.099 mg/m3 for respirable dust and RCS, respectively. The predictive exposure model for respirable dust fitted the data well (R2 = 0.75; adjusted R2 = 0.64), and the predictive capacity for RCS was higher (R2 = 0.89; adjusted R2 = 0.84). Conclusions: Foundry workers in the sand blasting process may be exposed to the highest levels of respirable dust and RCS. The developed models can be applied to predict respirable dust and RCS levels adequately in small-scale foundry workers for epidemiological studies.
Shifting Beliefs about Suicide: Pre-Post Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Program for Workers in the Construction Industry
Authors: King Tania L. , Gullestrup Jorgen , Batterham Philip J. , Kelly Brian , Lockwood Chris , Lingard Helen , Harvey Samuel B. , LaMontagne Anthony D. , Milner Allison
Published: September 2018

Suicide is a significant health problem that is known to disproportionately affect those employed in manual occupations, including construction workers and tradespeople. Universal General Awareness Training (GAT) was part of a multi-component suicide prevention program in the Australian construction industry. The program’s aims were to increase awareness of mental health and suicide, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking and help-offering behaviours. This paper sought to examine the effectiveness of the GAT program in shifting suicide beliefs. Pre- and post-training survey data of 20,125 respondents was obtained from a database of GAT evaluation results between 2016 and 2018. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were fitted to examine belief changes, and predictive margins and their SEs were computed. Mean differences in belief change were obtained for the overall sample, and by occupation. Modest but significant favourable shifts in three of the four beliefs assessed were observed following GAT. Managers and professionals showed greater propensity to shift beliefs, and Labourers and Machinery Operators and Drivers showed least. Results suggest that GAT can successfully shift some beliefs regarding suicide and mental health at least in the short term, but highlight the need to tailor communication to vulnerable occupational groups.
Evaluation of a Brief Intervention for Promoting Mental Health among Employees in Social Enterprises: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Deforche Benedicte , Mommen Jasmine , Hublet Anne , De Roover Winnie , Huys Nele , Clays Els , Maes Lea , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Van Cauwenberg Jelle
Published: September 2018

Evidence on the effectiveness of workplace mental health promotion for people with disabilities is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a brief mental health promotion intervention in social enterprises. It had a non-blinded cluster randomized controlled trial design with follow-up one and four months after the intervention. In total 196 employees agreed to participate (86 intervention and 110 control). Empowerment was the main outcome; secondary outcomes were resilience, palliative behavior, determinants of four coping strategies of mental health, quality of life, and life satisfaction. A brief participant satisfaction survey was conducted after the intervention. No significant intervention effect on empowerment was found. However, at one month follow-up, significant favorable effects were found on perceived social support for coping strategies for mental health and on palliative behavior. At four months follow-up, favorable intervention effects were found on quality of life, but unfavorable effects were found on unjustified worrying. In addition, the intervention was well received by the employees. This brief intervention might be a promising first step to improve mental health in people with disabilities working in social enterprises. Nevertheless, additional monitoring by professionals and managers working in the organizations might be needed to maintain these effects.
Phthalate Exposure from Drinking Water in Romanian Adolescents
Authors: Sulentic Rose O. , Dumitrascu Irina , Deziel Nicole C. , Gurzau Anca E.
Published: September 2018

Phthalates are plastic softeners that have been linked to several adverse health outcomes. The relative contributions of different sources to phthalate exposure in populations in different regions and at different life stages is unclear. We examined the relationships between water consumption, consumer product use, and phthalate exposure among 40 adolescents (20 males, 20 females) in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Interviewers administered a questionnaire about drinking water consumption and use of phthalate-containing consumer products. Four common phthalates were measured in representative samples of participants’ municipal drinking water and consumed bottled water using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Urine samples were collected from participants and analyzed for the corresponding phthalate metabolites. Relationships between different exposure measures were assessed using nonparametric tests (Spearman rank correlation coefficients and the Kruskal–Wallis test). Diisobutyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate were commonly detected in bottled water, but generally not the municipal drinking water samples. Mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) was the most commonly detected urinary metabolite (detected in 92.5% of participants) and had the highest maximum concentration (1139.77 µg/g creatinine). We did not identify any statistically significant associations between water consumption or consumer product use practices and urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations in our adolescent group, and directions of correlation coefficients differed by individual phthalate compound. While phthalate exposure was widespread, these results highlight the challenges in examining phthalate exposure determinants and emphasize the need for further investigation into understanding exposure sources and potential health risks from chronic low-level exposures.
Research on Water Environment Regulation of Artificial Playground Lake Interconnected Yangtze River
Authors: Song Weiwei , Fu Xingqian , Pang Yong , Song Dahao , Xu Qing , Zhang Peng
Published: September 2018

With the rapid development of China, water pollution is still a serious problem despite implementation of control measures. Reasonable water environment management measures are very important for improving water quality and controlling eutrophication. In this study, the coupled models of hydrodynamics, water quality, and eutrophication were used to predict artificial Playground Lake water quality in the Zhenjiang, China. Recommended “unilateral” and “bilateral” river numerical models were constructed to simulate the water quality in the Playground Lake without or with water diversion by pump, sluice and push pump. Under “unilateral” and “bilateral” river layouts, total nitrogen and total phosphorus meet the landscape water requirement through water diversion. Tourist season in spring and summer and its suitable temperature result in heavier eutrophication, while winter is lighter. Under pumping condition, water quality and eutrophication of “unilateral” river is better than “bilateral” rivers. Under sluice diversion, the central landscape lake of “unilateral river” is not smooth, and water quality and eutrophication is inferior to the “bilateral”. When the water level exceeds the flood control level (4.1 m), priority 1 is launched to discharge water from the Playground Lake. During operation of playground, when water level is less than the minimum level (3.3 m), priority 2 is turned on for pumping diversion or sluice diversion to Playground Lake. After opening the Yangtze river diversion channel sluice, priority 3 is launched for sluice diversion to the Playground Lake. When the temperature is less than 15 °C, from 15 °C to 25 °C and higher than 25 °C, the water quality can be maintained for 15 days, 10 days and 7 days, respectively. Corresponding to the conditions of different priority levels, reasonable choices of scheduling measures under different conditions to improve the water quality and control eutrophication of the Playground Lake. This article is relevant for the environmental management of the artificial Playground Lake, and similar lakes elsewhere.
Geospatial IoT—The Need for Event-Driven Architectures in Contemporary Spatial Data Infrastructures
Authors: Rieke Matthes , Bigagli Lorenzo , Herle Stefan , Jirka Simon , Kotsev Alexander , Liebig Thomas , Malewski Christian , Paschke Thomas , Stasch Christoph
Published: September 2018

The nature of contemporary spatial data infrastructures lies in the provision of geospatial information in an on-demand fashion. Although recent applications identified the need to react to real-time information in a time-critical way, research efforts in the field of geospatial Internet of Things in particular have identified substantial gaps in this context, ranging from a lack of standardisation for event-based architectures to the meaningful handling of real-time information as “events”. This manuscript presents work in the field of event-driven architectures as part of spatial data infrastructures with a particular focus on sensor networks and the devices capturing in-situ measurements. The current landscape of spatial data infrastructures is outlined and used as the basis for identifying existing gaps that retain certain geospatial applications from using real-time information. We present a selection of approaches—developed in different research projects—to overcome these gaps. Being designed for specific application domains, these approaches share commonalities as well as orthogonal solutions and can build the foundation of an overall event-driven spatial data infrastructure.
Identification of a Prognostic Hypoxia-Associated Gene Set in IDH-Mutant Glioma
Authors: Dao Trong Philip , Rösch Saskia , Mairbäurl Heimo , Pusch Stefan , Unterberg Andreas , Herold-Mende Christel , Warta Rolf
Published: September 2018

Glioma growth is often accompanied by a hypoxic microenvironment favorable for the induction and maintenance of the glioma stem cell (GSC) phenotype. Due to the paucity of cell models of Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 mutant (IDH1mut) GSCs, biology under hypoxic conditions has not been sufficiently studied as compared to IDH1 wildtype (IDH1wt) GSCs. We therefore grew well-characterized IDH1mut (n = 4) and IDH1wt (n = 4) GSC lines under normoxic (20%) and hypoxic (1.5%) culture conditions and harvested mRNA after 72 h. Transcriptome analyses were performed and hypoxia regulated genes were further analyzed using the expression and clinical data of the lower grade glioma cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas (LGG TCGA) in a confirmatory approach and to test for possible survival associations. Results show that global expression changes were more pronounced in IDH1wt than in IDH1mut GSCs. However, when focusing on known hypoxia-regulated gene sets, enrichment analyses showed a comparable regulation in both IDH1mut and IDH1wt GSCs. Of 272 significantly up-regulated genes under hypoxic conditions in IDH1mut GSCs a hypoxia-related survival score (HRS-score) of five genes (LYVE1, FAM162A, WNT6, OTP, PLOD1) was identified by the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) algorithm which was able to predict survival independent of age, 1p19q co-deletion status and WHO grade (II vs. III) in the LGG TCGA cohort and in the Rembrandt dataset. Altogether, we were able to identify and validate a novel hypoxia-related survival score in IDH1mut GSCs consisting of five hypoxia-regulated genes which was significantly associated with patient survival independent of known prognostic confounders.
Conformational Dynamics of Herpesviral NEC Proteins in Different Oligomerization States
Authors: Diewald Benedikt , Socher Eileen , Söldner Christian A. , Sticht Heinrich
Published: September 2018

All herpesviruses use a heterodimeric nuclear egress complex (NEC) to transport capsids out of host cell nuclei. Despite their overall similar structure, NECs may differ significantly in sequence between different viruses. Up to now, structural information is limited to isolated NEC heterodimers and to large hexagonal lattices made up of hexagonal ring-like structures (“Hexagons”). The present study aimed to expand the existing structural knowledge with information on the dynamics of NECs from different viruses and in different oligomerization states. For this task, comparative molecular dynamics simulations were performed of the free NEC heterodimers from three different viruses (HCMV (human cytomegalovirus), HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus 1), and PRV (pseudorabies virus)). In addition, higher oligomerization states comprising two or six NEC heterodimers were characterized for HCMV and HSV-1. The study revealed that the isolated NEC heterodimers from α- (HSV-1, PRV) and β-herpesviruses (HCMV) differ significantly in their dynamics, which can be attributed to a poorly conserved interface region between the NEC subdomains. These differences become smaller for higher oligomerization states, and both HCMV and HSV-1 individual Hexagons exhibit a common region of enhanced dynamics, which might be of functional relevance for the formation of curved vesicle structures or the recognition of hexameric capsid proteins.
Ubiquitylation at the Fork: Making and Breaking Chains to Complete DNA Replication
Authors: Yates Maïlyn , Maréchal Alexandre
Published: September 2018

The complete and accurate replication of the genome is a crucial aspect of cell proliferation that is often perturbed during oncogenesis. Replication stress arising from a variety of obstacles to replication fork progression and processivity is an important contributor to genome destabilization. Accordingly, cells mount a complex response to this stress that allows the stabilization and restart of stalled replication forks and enables the full duplication of the genetic material. This response articulates itself on three important platforms, Replication Protein A/RPA-coated single-stranded DNA, the DNA polymerase processivity clamp PCNA and the FANCD2/I Fanconi Anemia complex. On these platforms, the recruitment, activation and release of a variety of genome maintenance factors is regulated by post-translational modifications including mono- and poly-ubiquitylation. Here, we review recent insights into the control of replication fork stability and restart by the ubiquitin system during replication stress with a particular focus on human cells. We highlight the roles of E3 ubiquitin ligases, ubiquitin readers and deubiquitylases that provide the required flexibility at stalled forks to select the optimal restart pathways and rescue genome stability during stressful conditions.
Filamentous Aggregates of Tau Proteins Fulfil Standard Amyloid Criteria Provided by the Fuzzy Oil Drop (FOD) Model
Authors: Dułak Dawid , Gadzała Małgorzata , Banach Mateusz , Ptak Magdalena , Wiśniowski Zdzisław , Konieczny Leszek , Roterman Irena
Published: September 2018

Abnormal filamentous aggregates that are formed by tangled tau protein turn out to be classic amyloid fibrils, meeting all the criteria defined under the fuzzy oil drop model in the context of amyloid characterization. The model recognizes amyloids as linear structures where local hydrophobicity minima and maxima propagate in an alternating manner along the fibril’s long axis. This distribution of hydrophobicity differs greatly from the classic monocentric hydrophobic core observed in globular proteins. Rather than becoming a globule, the amyloid instead forms a ribbonlike (or cylindrical) structure.
The Risk G Allele of the Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism rs928413 Creates a CREB1-Binding Site That Activates IL33 Promoter in Lung Epithelial Cells
Authors: Gorbacheva Alisa M. , Korneev Kirill V. , Kuprash Dmitry V. , Mitkin Nikita A.
Published: September 2018

Cytokine interleukin 33 (IL-33) is constitutively expressed by epithelial barrier cells, and promotes the development of humoral immune responses. Along with other proinflammatory mediators released by the epithelium of airways and lungs, it plays an important role in a number of respiratory pathologies. In particular, IL-33 significantly contributes to pathogenesis of allergy and asthma; genetic variations in the IL33 locus are associated with increased susceptibility to asthma. Large-scale genome-wide association studies have identified minor “G” allele of the single-nucleotide polymorphism rs928413, located in the IL33 promoter area, as a susceptible variant for early childhood and atopic asthma development. Here, we demonstrate that the rs928413(G) allele creates a binding site for the cAMP response element-binding protein 1 (CREB1) transcription factor. In a pulmonary epithelial cell line, activation of CREB1, presumably via the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade, activates the IL33 promoter containing the rs928413(G) allele specifically and in a CREB1-dependent manner. This mechanism may explain the negative effect of the rs928413 minor “G” allele on asthma development.
Gummy Stem Blight Resistance in Melon: Inheritance Pattern and Development of Molecular Markers
Authors: Hassan Md Zahid , Rahim Md Abdur , Natarajan Sathishkumar , Robin Arif Hasan Khan , Kim Hoy-Taek , Park Jong-In , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: September 2018

Gummy stem blight (GSB) causes enormous losses to melon (Cucumis melo L.) production worldwide. We aimed to develop useful molecular markers linked to GSB resistance. In this study, 168 F2 plants were obtained from the F1 population of a cross between the GSB-susceptible ‘Cornell ZPPM 339’ and the GSB-resistant ‘PI482399’ lines. A 3:1 ratio of susceptible and resistant genotypes was observed in the F2 population, indicating control by a single recessive gene. Nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) genes confer resistance against insects and diseases in cucurbits including melon. We cloned and sequenced the TIR-NBS-LRR-type resistance gene MELO3C022157, located on melon chromosome 9, from resistant and susceptible lines. Sequence analysis revealed deletions in the first intron, a 2-bp frameshift deletion from the second exon and a 7-bp insertion in the 4th exon of the resistant line. We developed two insertion/deletion (InDel) markers, GSB9-kh-1 and GSB9-kh-2, which were found in the first intron of MELO3C022157 linked to GSB resistance. We validated these markers with the F2 population and inbred lines. These InDels may be used to facilitate marker-assisted selection of GSB resistance in melon. However, functional analysis of overexpressing and/or knock-down mutants is needed to confirm the frameshift mutation.
Effective Sequential Combined Chemotherapy with Trifluridine/Tipiracil and Regorafenib in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Matsuoka Kazuaki , Nakagawa Fumio , Tanaka Nozomu , Okabe Hiroyuki , Matsuo Kenichi , Takechi Teiji
Published: September 2018

Salvage chemotherapy for refractory metastatic colorectal cancer using trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) and regorafenib has shown survival benefits. We evaluated the antitumor effects of FTD or FTD/TPI combined with regorafenib in vitro and in vivo. SW620, HCT 116, and HT-29 human colorectal cancer cell lines were treated with FTD and regorafenib simultaneously and sequentially. Cell death, incorporation of FTD into DNA, and molecules related to FTD and regorafenib-associated cell death were investigated. The antitumor effects of FTD combined with regorafenib in SW620 and COLO205 xenografts were also evaluated. Cell death was greater after sequential treatment with FTD followed by regorafenib in SW620 cells, but not in HCT 116 and HT-29 cells, than after treatment with FTD alone, which was attributable to thymidylate synthase reduction with the induction of apoptosis. In contrast, simultaneous and sequential exposure to regorafenib followed by FTD, but not FTD alone, attenuated the cell death effect. Furthermore, combined FTD/TPI treatment followed by regorafenib had greater antitumor activity than either monotherapy in SW620 and COLO205 xenograft models. Treatment results following regorafenib administration subsequent to FTD or FTD/TPI suggest that sequential therapy with FTD/TPI prior to regorafenib may be effective in a clinical setting.
Non-Selective Dimerization of Vinyl Silanes by the Putative (Phenanthroline)PdMe Cation to 1,4-Bis(trialkoxysilyl)butenes
Authors: Perera Sandun , Findlater Michael
Published: September 2018

Activation of the dialkylpalladium complex (phen)Pd(CH3)2 (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) with B(C6F5)3 affords a competent catalyst for the dimerization of vinyl silanes. All organic products of the catalytic dimerization of trialkoxyvinylsilanes were characterized by in situ NMR spectroscopy and GC–MS. The putative palladium cation was characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Upon activation, the palladium complex generated products in moderate yield (60–70%) and selectivity (~60:40, dimer:disproportionation products).