bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium Independent Effect of Orai1 and STIM1 in Non-Hodgkin B Cell Lymphoma Dissemination
Authors: Latour Simon , Mahouche Isabelle , Cherrier Floriane , Azzi-Martin Lamia , Velasco Valérie , Soubeyran Pierre , Merlio Jean-Philippe , Poglio Sandrine , Bresson-Bepoldin Laurence
Published: October 2018

Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ channels, composed of Orai1 and STIM1 (stromal interaction molecule 1) proteins, are the main Ca2+ entry mechanism in lymphocytes. Their role in cell migration and metastasis is demonstrated in solid cancers but it remains elusive in malignant hemopathies. Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is characterized by the dissemination of neoplastic B cells throughout the organism which is under the control of chemokines such as Stromal Derived Factor 1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXCR4. CXCR4 activation triggers a complex intracellular signaling including an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration whose role is still unclear. Using pharmacological and genetic approaches, we revealed that STIM1 and Orai1 were responsible for Ca2+ influx induced by SDF-1. Furthermore, we provide in vitro and in vivo evidence that they are necessary for basal or SDF-1-induced DLBCL cell migration which is independent of Ca2+ entry. We identify that they act as effectors coupling RhoA and ROCK dependent signaling pathway to MLC2 phosphorylation and actin polymerization. Finally, we revealed an alteration of Orai1 and STIM1 expression in extra-nodal DLBCL. Thus, we discovered a novel Ca2+-independent but Orai1 and STIM1-dependent signaling pathway involved in basal and CXCR4 dependent cell migration, which could be relevant for DLBCL physiopathology.
The Influence of O/S Exchange on the Biocatalytical Activity of Benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-ones
Authors: Obieziurska Magdalena , Pacuła Agata J. , Juhas Ulana , Antosiewicz Jędrzej , Ścianowski Jacek
Published: October 2018

The crucial feature of organoselenium compounds, when considering them as promising drug candidates in cancer therapy, is their unique ability to alter the cellular redox regulations. Organic Se-molecules continue to demonstrate a positive therapeutic effect both in cancer prevention—as antioxidants, and treatment—as prooxidants. The growing interest in this field of research highlights the need to search for particular pharmacophore motifs, which could enhance the efficiency and selectivity, and decrease the toxicity of potential anticancer agents. Herein, a series of redox-active organoselenium derivatives—N-functionalized benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-thiones, has been designed and synthetized. A new synthetic pathway, with the application of Lawesson’s reagent, has been developed and efficiently applied. The key steps involving microwave irradiation facilitated performing the reaction in solvent-free conditions, shortening the reaction time and significantly improving the overall yield of the process. Six N-alkyl derivatives have been obtained and tested as antioxidant catalysts and anti-proliferative agents. The N-propyl benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-thione was the best peroxide scavenger and the N-cyclohexyl derivative exhibited the best cytotoxic activity towards prostate cancer cell line DU145.
Biological Drivers of Wilms Tumor Prognosis and Treatment
Authors: Phelps Hannah M. , Kaviany Saara , Borinstein Scott C. , Lovvorn Harold N.
Published: October 2018

Prior to the 1950s, survival from Wilms tumor (WT) was less than 10%. Today, a child diagnosed with WT has a greater than 90% chance of survival. These gains in survival rates from WT are attributed largely to improvements in multimodal therapy: Enhanced surgical techniques leading to decreased operative mortality, optimization of more effective chemotherapy regimens (specifically, dactinomycin and vincristine), and inclusion of radiation therapy in treatment protocols. More recent improvements in survival, however, can be attributed to a growing understanding of the molecular landscape of Wilms tumor. Particularly, identification of biologic markers portending poor prognosis has facilitated risk stratification to tailor therapy that achieves the best possible outcome with the least possible toxicity. The aim of this review is to (1) outline the specific biologic markers that have been associated with prognosis in WT and (2) provide an overview of the current use of biologic and other factors to stratify risk and assign treatment accordingly.
A Scoping Review of Modifiable Risk Factors in Pediatric Onset Multiple Sclerosis: Building for the Future
Authors: Pétrin Julie , Fiander Maximillian D.J. , Doss Prenitha , Yeh E.
Published: October 2018

Knowledge of the effect of modifiable lifestyle factors in the pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) population is limited. We therefore conducted a scoping review, following the framework provided by Arksey and O’Malley. Four databases were searched for pediatric MS and modifiable lifestyle factors using index terms and keywords, from inception to May 2018. All quantitative and qualitative primary articles were included and limited to English and full text. Of the 7202 articles identified and screened, 25 full-text articles were relevant to our objective and were included. These articles focused on diet obesity, physical activity, and sleep. In cross-sectional analyses, these lifestyle factors were associated with increased risk of pediatric onset MS (POMS), and increased disease activity. Diet, particularly vitamin D and vegetable intake, was associated with reduced relapse rate. Obesity was linked to increased risk of POMS, and physical activity was associated with reduced relapse rate and sleep/rest fatigue. Thus, available studies of lifestyle related outcomes in pediatric MS suggest specific lifestyle related factors, including obesity, higher vitamin D levels, and higher physical activity may associate with lower disease burden in POMS. Studies reviewed are limited by their observational designs. Future studies with longitudinal and experimental designs may further clarify the role of modifiable lifestyle factors in this population.
Influence of Sputtering Parameters on Structural, Electrical and Thermoelectric Properties of Mg–Si Coatings
Authors: Arab Pour Yazdi Mohammad , Martin Nicolas , Petitot Christian , Neffaa Khalid , Palmino Frank , Cherioux Frederic , Billard Alain
Published: October 2018

Mg–Si thin films (23 ≤ at.% Si ≤ 43) were deposited by co-sputtering of Mg and Si targets in an argon atmosphere. Two groups of samples were prepared with respect to sputtering parameters. The first Group I was synthesized while residual pressure in the reactor was lower than 7 × 10−4 Pa and the second Group II when reactor was pumped down to pressure higher than 7 × 10−4 Pa. The Mg2Si phase appeared for all as-deposited films of Group I around the stoichiometric composition region (29 ≤ at.% Si ≤ 37) and in the Mg-rich region (at.% Si < 29) the Mg2Si and Mg phases coexisted. An amorphous structure was obtained for all as-deposited films of Group II no matter their composition (34 ≤ at.% Si ≤ 38) and the Mg2Si structure was achieved after post annealing under air at temperature ≥140 °C. Thermal stability of Mg2Si thin films was investigated by annealing treatments under air. Superficial Mg2Si structural decomposition began at T > 500 °C and layer morphology and structure damaged while annealing temperature increased up to 700 °C. The films’ electrical resistivity, free carrier concentration and mobility as well as Seebeck coefficient were measured and thermoelectric power factors were discussed vs. composition.
Operando XAFS and XRD Study of a Prussian Blue Analogue Cathode Material: Iron Hexacyanocobaltate
Authors: Mullaliu Angelo , Conti Paolo , Aquilanti Giuliana , Plaisier Jasper Rikkert , Stievano Lorenzo , Giorgetti Marco
Published: October 2018

The reversible electrochemical lithiation of potassium iron hexacyanocobaltate (FeCo) was studied by operando X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) assisted by chemometric techniques. In this way, it was possible to follow the system dynamics and retrieve structural and electronic transformations along cycling at both Fe and Co sites. These analyses confirmed that FeCo features iron as the main electroactive site. Even though the release of potassium ions causes a local disorder around the iron site, the material exhibits an excellent structural stability during the alkali ion deinsertion/insertion processes. An independent but interrelated analysis approach offers a good strategy for data treatment and provides a time-resolved picture of the studied system.
An Income Distributing Optimization Model for Cooperative Operation among Different Types of Power Sellers Considering Different Scenarios
Authors: Yang Shenbo , Tan Zhongfu , Ju Liwei , Lin Hongyu , De Gejirifu , Tan Qingkun , Zhou Feng’ao
Published: October 2018

To alleviate the shortcomings of large-scale grid connections for clean energy, which require stable thermoelectric units to provide backup services, a stable cooperative alliance among different energy types of power sellers must be established. Consequently, a reasonable method to distribute income is required, due to different contributions of each entity in the alliance. Therefore, this paper constructs a comprehensive correction algorithm for income distribution using an improved Shapely value method. We analyze the operating mode of the power seller, and establish the net income calculation model under both independent and alliance operations. We then establish an alliance operation optimization model that considers the constraints of unit output, as well as the balance between supply and demand, with the goal of maximizing income. Finally, an industrial park in a province of northern China is taken as an example to verify the model’s practicability and effectiveness. The results show that the power sales alliance can effectively promote clean energy consumption. The maximum reduction in thermal power generation and CO2 is 8510 MW and 684.515 tons, respectively. We apply the algorithm to income distribution and find that the thermal power seller’s income increased by ¥1,463,870, which enhances the stability of the alliance. Therefore, our income distributing optimization model guarantees the interests of each participant to the greatest extent, and serves as an important reference for income distribution.
Transient Performance Analysis of the Solar Optical Guide Lighting System in Building Groups
Authors: Cao Fei , Zhang Heng , Zhou Hao , Lu Na
Published: October 2018

With accelerating urbanization, lighting problems frequently appears for residents at lower levels of buildings. In order to solve the sunlight blocking problem between high buildings, a new solar optical guide lighting (SOGL) system is proposed in this study. Numerical simulations are carried out to evaluate the SOGL system according to the light distribution both inside the buildings and between building groups at different times. Experimental setups are built to validate the simulated results. Main factors influencing the optical efficiency are discussed. It is found from this study that the SOGL system can realize the lighting purpose inside and between high buildings. The shadow areas between buildings are lightened into acceptable levels. The stronger the solar irradiation is, the higher the optical efficiency would be. And decreasing the ratio of optical guide pipe length to its radius would lead to the rise of optical efficiency.
A High-Speed Fault Detection, Identification, and Isolation Method for a Last Mile Radial LVDC Distribution Network
Authors: Jamali Saeed Zaman , Bukhari Syed Basit Ali , Khan Muhammad Omer , Mehmood Khawaja Khalid , Mehdi Muhammad , Noh Chul-Ho , Kim Chul-Hwan
Published: October 2018

The day-by-day increase in digital loads draws attention towards the need for an efficient and compatible distribution network. An LVDC distribution network has the capability to fulfill such digital load demands. However, the major challenge of an LVDC distribution network is its vulnerability during a fault. The need for a high-speed fault detection method is inevitable before it can be widely adopted. This paper proposes a new fault detection method which extracts the features of the current during a fault. The proposed fault detection method uses the merits of overcurrent, the first and second derivative of current, and signal processing techniques. Three different features are extracted from a time domain current signal through a sliding window. The extracted features are based upon the root squared zero, second, and fourth order moments. The features are then set with individual thresholds to discriminate low-, high-, and very high-resistance faults. Furthermore, a fault is located through the superimposed power flow. Moreover, this study proposes a new method based on the vector sum of positive and negative pole currents to identify the faulty pole. The proposed scheme is verified by using a modified IEEE 13 node distribution network, which is implemented in Matlab/Simulink. The simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed fault detection and identification method. The simulation results also confirm that a fault having a resistance of 1 m Ω is detected and interrupted within 250 μ s for the test system used in this study.
Simulation and Comparison of Mathematical Models of PV Cells with Growing Levels of Complexity
Authors: Manuel Godinho Rodrigues Eduardo , Godina Radu , Marzband Mousa , Pouresmaeil Edris
Published: October 2018

The amount of energy generated from a photovoltaic installation depends mainly on two factors—the temperature and solar irradiance. Numerous maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques have been developed for photovoltaic systems. The challenge is what method to employ in order to obtain optimum operating points (voltage and current) automatically at the maximum photovoltaic output power in most conditions. This paper is focused on the structural analysis of mathematical models of PV cells with growing levels of complexity. The main objective is to simulate and compare the characteristic current-voltage (I-V) and power-voltage (P-V) curves of equivalent circuits of the ideal PV cell model and, with one and with two diodes, that is, equivalent circuits with five and seven parameters. The contribution of each parameter is analyzed in the particular context of a given model and then generalized through comparison to a more complex model. In this study the numerical simulation of the models is used intensively and extensively. The approach utilized to model the equivalent circuits permits an adequate simulation of the photovoltaic array systems by considering the compromise between the complexity and accuracy. By utilizing the Newton–Raphson method the studied models are then employed through the use of Matlab/Simulink. Finally, this study concludes with an analysis and comparison of the evolution of maximum power observed in the models.
Mechanism Analysis of Liquid Carbon Dioxide Phase Transition for Fracturing Rock Masses
Authors: Gao Feng , Tang Leihu , Zhou Keping , Zhang Yanan , Ke Bo
Published: October 2018

The technique of breaking rocks using carbon dioxide phase transition technology is being widely applied in current research. This article combines theoretical and practical methods to analyze the mechanism by which high-pressure gas breaks rock at different stages. Using the observation that liquid carbon dioxide forms a high-pressure jet from release holes at the moment of release, a formula for calculating the initial pressure on the wall in the direction of release was obtained, and the pattern of initial crack formation on the borehole wall under different initial stress conditions was examined. An experiment using carbon dioxide phase transition technology to fracture rock without an initial stress field was conducted. The mechanism of generation and expansion of subsequent cracks under stress waves and high-pressure gas was analyzed, and the formula for calculating crack propagation radius under stress waves was obtained. The results suggested that under the quasi-static action of high-pressure gas, cracks begin to develop when the stress intensity factor KI at the crack tip is equal to or greater than the fracture toughness KIC of the rock.
Distributing Load Flow Computations Across System Operators Boundaries Using the Newton–Krylov–Schwarz Algorithm Implemented in PETSc
Authors: Rinaldo Stefano Guido , Ceresoli Andrea , Lahaye Domenico J. P. , Merlo Marco , Cvetković Miloš , Vitiello Silvia , Fulli Gianluca
Published: October 2018

The upward trends in renewable energy penetration, cross-border flow volatility and electricity actors’ proliferation pose new challenges in the power system management. Electricity and market operators need to increase collaboration, also in terms of more frequent and detailed system analyses, so as to ensure adequate levels of quality and security of supply. This work proposes a novel distributed load flow solver enabling for better cross border flow analysis and fulfilling possible data ownership and confidentiality arrangements in place among the actors. The model exploits an Inexact Newton Method, the Newton–Krylov–Schwarz method, available in the portable, extensible toolkit for scientific computation (PETSc) libraries. A case-study illustrates a real application of the model for the TSO–TSO (transmission system operator) cross-border operation, analyzing the specific policy context and proposing a test case for a coordinated power flow simulation. The results show the feasibility of performing the distributed calculation remotely, keeping the overall simulation times only a few times slower than locally.
Optimization of BuildingsEnergy Consumption by Designing Sliding Mode Control for Multizone VAV Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Shah Awais , Huang Deqing , Huang Tianpeng , Farid Umar
Published: October 2018

Variable air volume (VAV) is the most common installation among heating ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. To maintain the comfort level and lessen energy utilization, there is a pressing need for its effective control. In this study, a lumped parameter model composed of multizone VAV is considered, and sliding mode control (SMC) is designed to guarantee robust operation in the presence of uncertainties. For comparison of the proposed controller performance, a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller is additionally designed. The indoor temperature of zones is controlled by positioning the supply air dampers. Tracking objectives of controllers are inspected via two practical cases of desired temperature setpoints including (a) sinusoidal waveform and (b) the combination of steps. Results obtained using SMC ensure the robust operation of the VAV system against parametric uncertainties. In addition, SMC is more energy efficient than PID in terms of overshoot and settling time.
A Novel Energy-Efficient Wobble Plate Hydraulic Joint for Mobile Robotic Manipulators
Authors: Fang Delei , Yang Junhong , Shang Jianzhong , Wang Zhuo , Feng Yong
Published: October 2018

At present, mobile robotic manipulators have been greatly developed. However, these further promotions are limited by a low load capacity and short operation time. The above problems can be improved by using a hydraulic drive mode and increasing the system energy efficiency. In this paper, a novel energy-efficient wobble plate hydraulic joint is presented, which has the characteristics of having a small size, lightweight, large load capacity, and high energy efficiency. Based on the efficiency analysis in traditional robotic manipulators, this paper presents a novel hydraulic joint with a multi-chamber drive structure. Kinematics model and dynamics model are both established for the analysis of the mechanical characteristics, and the functional relationship between the input and output is depicted by numerical simulation. Based on the structural characteristics and control principle, the load matching controller is designed and specific control processes are formulated. Combined with a strategy of load matching, the servo control system is established and the energy-saving effect is verified by simulation. The result shows that the wobble plate hydraulic joint can change connections between a high-pressure circuit and different working chambers, which realizes the match between the output torque and load torque. With the load matching controller, the energy consumption of the wobble plate joint is greatly reduced, which contributes to a considerably improved energy efficiency. The research in this paper not only lays a theoretical foundation for the development of a wobble plate hydraulic joint, but also provides guidance for the improvement of the hydraulic system energy efficiency in mobile robotic manipulators.
Flashover Performance and Process of Suspension Insulator Strings Artificially Covered with Snow
Authors: Hu Yuyao , Guo Sihua , Xian Richang , Han Xingbo , Yang Zhongyi , Wu Ying
Published: October 2018

Snow accumulates on the surface of insulator string, causing a decrease in its electrical performance, seriously threatening the reliable operation of the power grid. Most previous studies have focused on iced insulators; however, there is a lack of research on snow-covered insulators. In this paper, to reveal the influencing mechanism that snow has on the electrical characteristics of insulator string, based on an artificial snowing test in a chamber, the effects of equivalent salt deposit density, applied voltage type, and snow thickness on the flashover performance of snow-covered insulators are analyzed, and the flashover process is investigated. The results show that the relationship between the arc flashover gradient and the equivalent salt deposit density is a power function with a negative exponent, which is similar to that of polluted and ice-covered insulator strings. For the insulator strings with the same snow accretion, the direct current (DC) arc flashover gradient is lower than the alternating current (AC) arc flashover gradient. The relationship between arc flashover gradient and snow thickness is also a power function. The formation of a dry band during the flashover of snow-covered insulator string is similar to the flashover of the polluted insulator, and the arc propagation along the surface of the snow-covered insulator is similar to the flashover of the iced insulator.
An Extended Kalman Filter Approach for Accurate Instantaneous Dynamic Phasor Estimation
Authors: De Apráiz Matilde , Diego Ramón I. , Barros Julio
Published: October 2018

This paper proposes the application of a non-linear Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) for accurate instantaneous dynamic phasor estimation. An EKF-based algorithm is proposed to better adapt to the dynamic measurement requirements and to provide real-time tracking of the fundamental harmonic components and power system frequencies. This method is evaluated using dynamic compliance tests defined in the IEEE C37.118.1-2011 synchrophasor measurement standard, providing promising results in phasor and frequency estimation, compliant with the accuracy required in the case of off-nominal frequency, amplitude and phase angle modulations, frequency ramps, and step changes in magnitude and phase angle. An important additional feature of the method is its capability for real-time detection of transient disturbances in voltage or current waveforms using the residual of the filter, which enables flagging of the estimation for suitable processing.
Relationship between Torrefaction Parameters and Physicochemical Properties of Torrefied Products Obtained from Selected Plant Biomass
Authors: Bajcar Marcin , Zaguła Grzegorz , Saletnik Bogdan , Tarapatskyy Maria , Puchalski Czesław
Published: October 2018

Waste biomass from plant production is an important raw material for producing energy from renewable sources. Capabilities and technologies of processing are still being improved and modernized in order to achieve the highest energy efficiency. This study assesses energetic properties of wheat straw, rapeseed, and willow. The material was subjected to heat treatment, i.e., torrefaction process at temperatures of 220, 260, and 300 °C for the duration of 60, 75, and 90 min. Measurements were performed to compare parameters of raw biomass and the torrefied products. The materials were examined and compared for the contents of moisture; biogenic elements N, C, and H; as well as calorific value, ash, and volatiles. Measurements were also performed to assess the composition of biomass in terms of particle sizes. Analysis of the results made it possible to determine optimal parameters for carrying out the torrefaction process. The use of the torrefaction process made it possible to obtain a material with an increased calorific value by more than 20%, and a 2–3 times higher content of elements in the powdered material, as well as to improve the grinding of the material. This information will enable the development of biomass thermal treatment technologies towards the use of waste biomass from agricultural production.
Ethanol Production from Corn Fiber Separated after Liquefaction in the Dry Grind Process
Authors: Kurambhatti Chinmay V. , Kumar Deepak , Rausch Kent D. , Tumbleson Mike E. , Singh Vijay
Published: October 2018

Conversion of corn fiber to ethanol in the dry grind process can increase ethanol yields, improve coproduct quality and contribute to process sustainability. This work investigates the use of two physio-chemical pretreatments on corn fiber and effect of cellulase enzyme dosage to improve ethanol yields. Fiber separated after liquefaction of corn was pretreated using (I) hot water pretreatment (160 °C for 5, 10 or 20 min) and (II) wet disk milling and converted to ethanol. The conversion efficiencies of hot water pretreated fiber were higher than untreated fiber, with highest increase in conversion (10.4%) achieved for 5 min residence time at 160 °C. Disk milling was not effective in increasing conversion compared to other treatments. Hydrolysis and fermentation of untreated fiber with excess cellulase enzymes resulted in 33.3% higher conversion compared to untreated fiber.
Urban and Extra-Urban Hybrid Vehicles: A Technological Review
Authors: Capata Roberto
Published: October 2018

Pollution derived from transportation systems is a worldwide, timelier issue than ever. The abatement actions of harmful substances in the air are on the agenda and they are necessary today to safeguard our welfare and that of the planet. Environmental pollution in large cities is approximately 20% due to the transportation system. In addition, private traffic contributes greatly to city pollution. Further, “vehicle operating life” is most often exceeded and vehicle emissions do not comply with European antipollution standards. It becomes mandatory to find a solution that respects the environment and, realize an appropriate transportation service to the customers. New technologies related to hybrid–electric engines are making great strides in reducing emissions, and the funds allocated by public authorities should be addressed. In addition, the use (implementation) of new technologies is also convenient from an economic point of view. In fact, by implementing the use of hybrid vehicles, fuel consumption can be reduced. The different hybrid configurations presented refer to such a series architecture, developed by the researchers and Research and Development groups. Regarding energy flows, different strategy logic or vehicle management units have been illustrated. Various configurations and vehicles were studied by simulating different driving cycles, both European approval and homologation and customer ones (typically municipal and university). The simulations have provided guidance on the optimal proposed configuration and information on the component to be used.
Fractional-Order Water Level Control Based on PLC: Hardware-In-The-Loop Simulation and Experimental Validation
Authors: Mystkowski Arkadiusz , Kierdelewicz Andrzej
Published: October 2018

An industrial-oriented water tank level control system with PLC- and Simulink-based fractional-order controller realizations is presented. The discrete fractional-order and integer-order PID implementations are realized via the PLC and Simulink simulator. The benefits of the fractional-order PID compared to the integer-order PID control are confirmed by the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations and experiments. HIL simulations are realized using real-time communication between PLC and Simulink. The fractional-order controller is obtained for a desired phase/gain margin and validated via HIL simulations and experimental measurements.
Energy Assessment of Building Physics Principles in Secondary Education Buildings
Authors: Martinopoulos Georgios , Kikidou Vasiliki , Bozis Dimitrios
Published: October 2018

Educational buildings comprise a considerable portion of the public non-residential building stock. In order to assess the influence of the main parameters involved in the design and possible retrofitting of educational buildings, a secondary school building was selected and investigated with respect to its thermal behavior using EnergyPlus. Designing factors, as well as construction and operational solutions are examined individually and compared with each other, in order to find the best solution for either designing from scratch or retrofitting an educational building. In particular, the orientation of the openings, the thermal mass of the building and alternative insulation solutions, such as the thickness and location of the insulation layers in the building components, are compared. The simulation confirms, that the best orientation for educational buildings is the one in which their long axis coincides with the east-west one. The internally insulated building requires less energy but the difference is too small to be considered cost efficient. Regarding the heating system, from the alternative scenarios examined a one or two hour morning reheat strategy reduces the needed installed capacity for heating by up to 10%.
Ecophysiological Responses of Calcicole Cyclobalanopsis glauca (Thunb.) Oerst. to Drought Stress and Calcium Supply
Authors: Xue Liang , Ren Huadong , Long Wei , Leng Xiuhui , Wang Jia , Yao Xiaohua , Li Sheng
Published: October 2018

Water deficit and high calcium (Ca2+) content and are two typical soil characteristics in the Karst region. However, the problem of whether high Ca2+ in Karst calcareous soil could increase drought tolerance in calcicole plants has not been solved. We investigated the ecophysiological responses of Cyclobalanopsis glauca (Thunb.) Oerst. cuttings to short-term drought stress and Ca2+ application. Drought stress (10% PEG-6000) markedly reduced relative water content (RWC) and water potential (WP), and enhanced the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production (H2O2 and O2•−) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in C. glauca leaves. Under drought treatment, exogenous Ca2+ application (20 mM CaCl2) markedly increased the RWC and WP, and reduced the H2O2, O2•−, and MDA content. Furthermore, water deficit induced a significant increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and increased the accumulation of osmoregulation substances. External Ca2+ alleviated drought-induced oxidative stress and osmotic stress with further increased activities of antioxidant enzymes, and enhanced the accumulation of osmoregulation substances. In addition, exogenous Ca2+ treatment alleviated the reduction of the photosynthesis rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (Tr), and chlorophyll content (SPAD), and further increased water use efficiency (WUE) under drought stress. This study confirms that exogenouos Ca2+ application induces improvements in the water status, osmotic adjustment, antioxidant defense, and photosynthesis efficiency of C. glauca under drought stress.
Evaluating Inter-Rater Reliability and Statistical Power of Vegetation Measures Assessing Deer Impact
Authors: Begley-Miller Danielle R. , Diefenbach Duane R. , McDill Marc E. , Rosenberry Christopher S. , Just Emily H.
Published: October 2018

Long-term vegetation monitoring projects are often used to evaluate how plant communities change through time in response to some external influence. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of vegetation monitoring to consistently detect changes in white-tailed deer browsing effects. Specifically, we compared inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s κ and Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient) between two identically trained field crews for several plant metrics used by Pennsylvania state agencies to monitor deer browsing impact. Additionally, we conducted a power analysis to determine the effect of sampling scale (1/2500th or 1/750th ha plots) on the ability to detect changes in tree seedling stem counts over time. Inter-rater reliability across sampling crews was substantial for most metrics based on direct measurements, while the observational based Deer Impact Index (DII) had only moderate inter-rater reliability. The smaller, 1/2500th ha sampling scale resulted in higher statistical power to detect changes in tree seedling stem counts due to reduced observer error. Overall, this study indicates that extensive training on plant identification, project protocols, and consistent data collection methods can result in reliable vegetation metrics useful for tracking understory responses to white-tailed deer browsing. Smaller sampling scales and objective plant measures (i.e., seedling counts, species richness) improve inter-rater reliability over subjective measures of deer impact (i.e., DII). However, considering objective plant measures when making a subjective assessment regarding deer browsing effects may also improve DII inter-rater reliability.
The Impact of Resident Participation on Urban Woodland Quality—A Case Study of Sletten, Denmark
Authors: Fors Hanna , Jansson Märit , Nielsen Anders Busse
Published: October 2018

Despite the potential of urban woodlands for recreational use and participatory management, citizens’ perception of urban woodland quality, as well as the impact of citizens’ co-management on urban woodland quality, have not been thoroughly studied to date. The present study investigated how residents in Holstebro, Denmark define urban woodland quality in their neighborhood named Sletten and how they perceive the quality impact of their participation in the management and maintenance of a transition from private gardens to public urban woodland—the so-called co-management zone. Field survey of participation for all housing units with a co-management zone (n = 201) informed strategic selection of residents for individual interviews (n = 16). It was found that social, experiential, functional, and ecological dimensions are all part of residents’ perception of urban woodland quality, whereby maintenance, accessibility, and nature are dominating aspects of these dimensions. While these aspects are already integrated in quality assessment schemes for other types of urban green space, our study revealed the importance of structural and species diversity between and within woodland stands as central for the perceived woodland quality—a quality aspect that distinguishes woodland from other types of urban green space. Participation in the management and maintenance positively influenced the perceived woodland quality. Residents found that their participation in the co-management zone created functional and ecological, physical qualities in the woodland. Moreover, the active participation provided the residents with a range of social and experiential benefits, many of which they themselves argue that they would have missed out on if they were only allowed to use the woodland “passively”. These findings suggest a large—but also largely untapped—potential of participatory urban woodland management to contribute physical qualities to urban woodlands and benefits to its users.
Analyzing the Vertical Distribution of Crown Material in Mixed Stand Composed of Two Temperate Tree Species
Authors: Martin-Ducup Olivier , Schneider Robert , Fournier Richard A.
Published: October 2018

The material distribution inside tree crowns is difficult to quantify even though it is an important variable in forest management and ecology. The vertical distribution of a relative density index (i.e., vertical profile) of the total, woody, and leafy material at the crown scale were estimated from terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) data on two species, sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) and balsam fir (Abies Balsamea Mill.). An algorithm based on a geometrical approach readily available in the Computree open source platform was used. Beta distributions were then fitted to the vertical profiles and compared to each other. Total and leafy profiles had similar shapes, while woody profiles were different. Thus, the total vertical distribution could be a good proxy for the leaf distribution in the crown. Sugar maple and balsam fir had top heavy and bottom heavy distributions respectively, which can be explained by their respective architectural development. Moreover, the foliage distribution of sugar maples shifted towards the crown base when it was found in mixed stands, when compared to pure stands. The opposite behavior was observed for balsam firs, but less pronounced. According to the shape of the foliage distribution, sugar maple takes advantages from mixture contrarily to balsam fir. From a methodological point of view, we proposed an original approach to separate wood from leaf returns in TLS data while taking into account occlusion. Wood and leaf separation and occlusion problems are two challenging issues for most TLS-based studies in forest ecology.
Imaging Analysis and Digital Restoration of the Holy Face of Manoppello—Part I
Authors: De Caro Liberato , Matricciani Emilio , Fanti Giulio
Published: October 2018

The Veil of Manoppello is an icon of the face of Christ (Holy Face). Its particular characteristic is being semitransparent. The face is visible on both sides (front–back) and, depending on the lighting and observation conditions, shows some differences in the anatomical details. An analysis of this icon has allowed us to clarify some aspects of the possible physical mechanism underlying its unusual optical behavior. It is a linen fiber fabric consisting of very thin threads with a thickness of about 0.1 mm, separated by distances even double the thickness of the threads, so that about 42% of the Veil is empty space. The fibers constituting the linen threads may have been cemented by an organic substance of chemical composition similar to cellulose, presumably starch, eliminating the air between them. Such a structure causes the optical behavior of the medium to be intermediate between those of a translucent medium (thin cemented linen threads) and a transparent one (empty space between the threads). The problem of digital image restoration in spatial terms has also been tackled, since the Holy Face is deformed due to distortions of the meshes of the Veil, caused by the yielding of the very fine structure of the fabric.
The Effect of Light Intensity and Temperature on Flowering and Morphology of Potted Red Firespike
Authors: Rezazadeh Amir , Harkess Richard L. , Telmadarrehei Telmah
Published: October 2018

Red firespike (Odontonema strictum) is a tropical flowering plant that was selected as a potential flowering potted plant for its attractive red floral spikes. The objective of this study was to evaluate how light intensity, photoperiod, and temperature affect the growth and flowering of firespike. In Experiment 1, plants were grown under 0%, 45%, or 65% shade and two photoperiod conditions; long-day (LD = ≥14 h) and short-day (SD = 9 h), for 16 weeks. Plants grown under 45% shade + LD were tallest at 35.9 cm, while plants grown under 65% shade + SD were shortest at 22.8 cm. During the finishing stage, the number of inflorescences increased when plants were grown under 45% shade + SD, 45% shade + LD, and no shade, with 6, 7, and 9 inflorescences, respectively. In addition, the first open flower was observed in the 0% shade group (control) 92 days after starting the experiment. The time to first open flower increased when the plants were grown under 65% shade, either under SD or LD. In Experiment 2, plants were grown in controlled environment growth chambers with average daily temperatures of 15, 25, or 35 °C and an irradiance of 200 µmol·m−2·s−1 for 9 h per day. Plants grown at 25 °C were the tallest and had the largest leaf area. Plants grown at 15 and 35 °C had 28% and 22% less leaf area, respectively. The average number of inflorescences in plants grown at 25 °C was 1.6, while no inflorescence development was observed in plants grown at 15 or 35 °C by the termination of the experiment. There were no differences between plant growth index or branch number in response to temperature. Under the experimental conditions tested, the most rapid and uniform flowering of firespike occurred when plants were grown under no shade or at 25 °C.
From Single Level Analysis to Multi-Omics Integrative Approaches: A Powerful Strategy towards the Precision Oncology
Authors: Gallo Cantafio Maria Eugenia , Grillone Katia , Caracciolo Daniele , Scionti Francesca , Arbitrio Mariamena , Barbieri Vito , Pensabene Licia , Guzzi Pietro Hiram , Di Martino Maria Teresa
Published: October 2018

Integration of multi-omics data from different molecular levels with clinical data, as well as epidemiologic risk factors, represents an accurate and promising methodology to understand the complexity of biological systems of human diseases, including cancer. By the extensive use of novel technologic platforms, a large number of multidimensional data can be derived from analysis of health and disease systems. Comprehensive analysis of multi-omics data in an integrated framework, which includes cumulative effects in the context of biological pathways, is therefore eagerly awaited. This strategy could allow the identification of pathway-addiction of cancer cells that may be amenable to therapeutic intervention. However, translation into clinical settings requires an optimized integration of omics data with clinical vision to fully exploit precision cancer medicine. We will discuss the available technical approach and more recent developments in the specific field.
Potentially Toxic Element Pollution Levels and Risk Assessment of Soils and Sediments in the Upstream River, Miyun Reservoir, China
Authors: Pan Libo , Fang Guangling , Wang Yue , Wang Lei , Su Benying , Li Dan , Xiang Bao
Published: October 2018

This study focused on the Chao River and Baimaguan River located upstream of the Miyun Reservoir in Miyun District (Beijing, China). Soil and sediment samples were collected from the river and drainage basin. Total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and six potentially toxic elements including cadmium, zinc, lead, chromium, arsenic, and copper, were analyzed in terms of concentration, potential ecological risk, and human health risk. The average concentrations of the six potentially toxic elements were all below the soil environmental quality standards for China. Cadmium was the most serious pollutant in both soils and sediments, at 2.58 and 3.40 times its background values. The contents of Cd and Pb were very closely related (p < 0.01) to total nitrogen concentrations in both soil and sediment samples. The potential ecological risks posed by Cd in the Chao and Baimaguan River soils were considerable and moderate, respectively. The historical iron ore mining and agricultural activity were identified as the primary sources of potentially toxic element pollution of soil and sediment in the Chao-Bai River in Miyun District. Human health risk assessment indicated that non-carcinogenic risks all fell below threshold values. The total carcinogenic risks due to Cr and As were within the acceptable range for both adults and children. This conclusion provides a scientific basis for the control of potentially toxic element pollution and environmental protection of the Miyun Reservoir in Beijing.
Evolution Decision, Drivers and Green Innovation Performance for Collaborative Innovation Center of Ecological Building Materials and Environmental Protection Equipment in Jiangsu Province of China
Authors: Fang Wei , Tang Lulu , Cheng Pengxiao , Ahmad Naveed
Published: October 2018

Faced with the bottlenecks and shortcomings brought about by the resource and environmental issues regarding the sustainable development of the economy and society, green innovation has become an important symbol to measure the sustainable competitive advantage of a country and a region. As an important carrier of green innovation, the evolution process of the collaborative innovation network and its green innovation performance are affected by many factors. Therefore, this paper refines the influencing factors of the formation and evolution of collaborative innovation networks and the evaluation indicators of the green innovation performance by literature analysis. According to the characteristics of each evolutionary influence factor, the relationship governance mechanism, relationship strength, and dominant role are defined as decision factors. The rest are defined as drivers. Then, the Analytic Network Process (ANP) is used to empirically analyze the interaction between network evolution decision, driving factors, and green innovation performance, and the interaction relationship model of decision factors, driving factors, and green innovation performance is obtained. The qualitative simulation algorithm based on qualitative simulation (QSIM) basic theory is used to simulate the evolution of a collaborative innovation network, and find the optimal decision to make the green innovation performance reach its relatively high point. Finally, this paper considers the Collaborative Innovation Center of Ecological Building Materials and Environmental Protection Equipment in Jiangsu Province of China as the research object, focusing on its initial stage of growth and maturity. Combining the theory of QSIM with the actual simulation, according to the different development stages of the Collaborative Innovation Center, this paper provides decisions that can promote the rapid improvement of green innovation performance in three aspects: relationship governance mechanism, relationship strength, and core leadership.
The Need for School Nursing in Spain: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Rodríguez-Almagro Julián , Hernández-Martínez Antonio , Alarcón-Alarcón Gema , Infante-Torres Nuria , Donate-Manzanares Miriam , Gόmez-Salgado Juan
Published: October 2018

Background: Teachers are not trained or feel prepared for urgent action. Nevertheless, the presence of children with health problems is relevant. We identified vital health risk problems and complications among students, as well as the related training and perception of teachers. Methods: An explanatory sequential design was employed. The study sample consisted of a cross-sectional study of an intentional nonprobabilistic sample of 3246 teachers in the quantitative phase, and a total of 16 semistructured interviews were conducted in its qualitative phase. Results: 56.6% (1837) of teachers show high concern about facing such situations and only 0.6% (19) feel appropriately trained. For 81.8% (2556), the existence of school nursing would be quite relevant. The presence of nursing professionals in schools could lead to an improvement in the quality of life of both the students and teachers. Conclusions: There is a significant percentage of children with diseases that often require specific care and there is a high probability that teachers, throughout their professional lives, have to deal with situations of vital urgency. The presence of professionals in educational centres seems to be a relevant option. These data suggest that it is necessary for nurses to establish a pilot programme for the incorporation of professional nurses in educational centres to determine its implications, benefits in health prevention and promotion issues, as well as costs.