bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations in NLRP5 and NLRP9 Are Associated with Litter Size in Small Tail Han Sheep
Authors: Zhang Zhuangbiao , Tang Jishun , He Xiaoyun , Di Ran , Chu Mingxing
Published: April 2020

Previous studies showed that the NLR family pyrin domain-containing 5 (NLRP5) and NLRP9 genes are two important reproductive genes; however, their effects on sheep litter size are unknown. Therefore, in this study, we first genotyped seven sheep breeds via the MassARRAY® SNP system at the loci g.60495375A > G, g.60495363G > A, and g.60499690C > A in NLRP5, and g.59030623T > C and g.59043397A > C in NLRP9. Our results revealed that each locus in most sheep breeds contained three genotypes. Then, we conducted population genetic analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms in NLRP5 and NLRP9, and we found that the polymorphism information content value in all sheep breeds ranged from 0 to 0.36, and most sheep breeds were under Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05). Furthermore, association analysis in Small Tail Han sheep indicated that two loci, g.60495363G > A in NLRP5 and g.59030623T > C in NLRP9, were highly associated with litter size. The mutation in g.60495363G > A may decrease interactions of NLRP5 with proteins, such as GDF9, whereas the mutation in g.59030623T > C may enhance the combining capacity of NLRP9 with these proteins; consequently, these mutations may influence the ovulation rate and even litter size. The findings of our study provide valuable genetic markers that can be used to improve the breeding of sheep and even other mammals.
Lions Panthera leo Prefer Killing Certain Cattle Bos taurus Types
Authors: Weise Florian J. , Tomeletso Mathata , Stein Andrew B. , Somers Michael J. , Hayward Matt W.
Published: April 2020

Lion predation on cattle causes severe human–wildlife conflict that results in retaliatory persecution throughout the lion’s geographic range. Cattle closely resemble the body size, shape, and herding patterns of preferred lion prey species. We studied cattle depredation patterns in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and tested whether lions exhibited specific preferences based on cattle demographic characteristics (sex and age), as well as morphological traits (body mass, horn length, and pelage patterns). We also tested whether human disturbance of kills influenced lion energy intake and whether depredation circumstances influenced loss levels. Lions predominantly killed cattle at night (87.1%) and exhibited no preference for either sex. Overall, bulls and calves were most preferred, whereas heifers were significantly avoided, as were cattle with uniform colour patterns. Cattle with mottled pelage patterns were most preferred, especially among free-roaming herds. Preferences were context-specific, with lions preferring inexperienced calves during enclosure attacks (including multiple cases of surplus killing) and free-roaming bulls and oxen. About 13% of adult cattle had no horns, and these were preferentially targeted by lions, while cattle with short horns were killed in accordance with their availability and long horned cattle were highly avoided. The contemporary morphology of Tswana cattle that resulted from unnatural selective pressures during domestication does not offer effective antipredatory protection. Human disturbance of feeding soon after kills occurred reduced cattle carcass consumption by >40% (or about 30 kg per carcass per lion). Lions killed significantly more cattle in nonfortified enclosures than in the veldt, although this was influenced by surplus killing. Our results suggest that cattle predation by lions is driven by availability and cavalier husbandry practices, coupled with morphological features associated with facilitating easy husbandry. Cattle no longer exhibit the key features that enabled their ancestors to coexist with large predators and are now reliant upon humans to perform critical antipredator activities. Hence, the responsibility for mitigating human–wildlife conflict involving lions and cattle lies with people in either breeding traits that minimise predation or adequately protecting their cattle.
The Effects of Heat Stress on Sheep Welfare during Live Export Voyages from Australia to the Middle East
Authors: Carnovale Francesca , Phillips Clive J. C.
Published: April 2020

One of the world’s longest sea transport routes of live sheep for slaughter is from Australia to the Middle East. Heat stress is a major cause of mortality in shipments of sheep, particularly in sheep leaving Australia in the Southern Hemisphere winter to arrive in the Middle Eastern summer. Temperature and mortality data were utilized and recorded from fourteen voyages from Australia to the Middle East in May to December, 2016–2018, with the aim of determining when the welfare of the sheep began to be affected by elevated temperatures. Increases in heat stress were recorded at temperatures normally experienced in 50% of voyages between July and September offloading sheep at two of the four Persian Gulf ports, Doha and Dubai; however, small increases in recorded heat stress were not sufficient to increase mortality. Temperatures increased most rapidly when sheep were offloaded initially at Doha first, followed by other Gulf ports, and this resulted in higher mortality than when sheep were offloaded at other ports first. These results confirm benefits of restricting voyages leaving Australia in the Southern Hemisphere winter and suggest that shipments offloading at multiple ports should not offload at the hottest port, Doha, first.
Olive Cake Meal and Bacillus licheniformis Impacted the Growth Performance, Muscle Fatty Acid Content, and Health Status of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Saleh Ahmed A. , Paray Bilal Ahamad , Dawood Mahmoud A.O.
Published: April 2020

Olive cake meal (OCM) is characterized by its high nutritional value and is used as an alternative source of protein and fats in poultry diets. However, due to the high percentage of fiber in OCM, beneficial bacteria cells are used to improve the digestion rates. Therefore, the influence of OCM and Bacillus licheniformis (BL) on the growth, nutrient utilization, blood chemistry, and muscle fatty acid profile of broilers was exclusively examined in this study. Three hundred and sixty birds were randomly divided into six experimental groups (6 replicates/10 birds each): Control, OCM (2%), OCM (4%), BL, OCM (2%)/BL, and OCM (4%)/BL groups. Although feed intake was not meaningfully influenced by dietary treatments, weight gain was enhanced and feed conversion ratio was reduced (p < 0.05). The abdominal fat was lowered in broilers fed OCM (2%), OCM (4%), OCM (2%)/BL, and OCM (4%)/BL diets without a difference to those fed BL only (p < 0.05). Interestingly, blood total protein, albumin, Newcastle disease (ND) titer, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were significantly increased, while total cholesterol was decreased by the mixture of OCM and BL (p < 0.05). Muscle oleic and linoleic acids, as well as vitamin E, increased significantly in broilers fed both OCM (4%) and BL, while linolenic acid increased in all groups except those fed BL and control diets (p < 0.05). Liver malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased by feeding BL or both OCM at 2% or 4% and BL (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the inclusion of BL to OCM diets resulted in improved fat utilization and, accordingly, enhanced growth, nutrient utilization, and antioxidative response in broilers. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended to use BL to improve the nutritional value of OCM and to increase the feed utilization of OCM by broilers.
First-Principles Study of the Contact Resistance at 2D Metal/2D Semiconductor Heterojunctions
Authors: Houssa Michel , Meng Ruishen , Afanas’ev Valery , Stesmans André
Published: April 2020

The high contact resistance at metal/two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor junctions is a major issue for the integration of 2D materials in nanoelectronic devices. We review here recent theoretical results on the contact resistance at lateral heterojunctions between graphene or 1T-MoS2 with 2H-MoS2 monolayers. The transport properties at these junctions are computed using density functional theory and the non-equilibrium Green’s function method. The contact resistance is found to strongly depend on the edge contact symmetry/termination at graphene/2H-MoS2 contacts, varying between about 2 × 102 and 2 × 104 Ω∙μm. This large variation is correlated to the presence or absence of dangling bond defects and/or polar bonds at the interface. On the other hand, the large computed contact resistance at pristine 1T/2H-MoS2 junctions, in the range of 3–4 × 104 Ω.μm, is related to the large electron energy barrier (about 0.8 eV) at the interface. The functionalization of the metallic 1T-MoS2 contact by various adsorbates is predicted to decrease the contact resistance by about two orders of magnitude, being very promising for device applications.
Post-Tuberculosis (TB) Treatment: The Role of Surgery and Rehabilitation
Authors: Visca Dina , Tiberi Simon , Centis Rosella , D’Ambrosio Lia , Pontali Emanuele , Mariani Alessandro Wasum , Zampogna Elisabetta , van den Boom Martin , Spanevello Antonio , Migliori Giovanni Battista
Published: April 2020

Even though the majority of tuberculosis (TB) programmes consider their work completed when a patient is ‘successfully’ cured, patients often continue to suffer with post-treatment or surgical sequelae. This review focuses on describing the available evidence with regard to the diagnosis and management of post-treatment and surgical sequelae (pulmonary rehabilitation). We carried out a non-systematic literature review based on a PubMed search using specific key-words, including various combinations of ‘TB’, ‘MDR-TB’, ‘XDR-TB’, ‘surgery’, ‘functional evaluation’, ‘sequelae’ and ‘pulmonary rehabilitation’. References of the most important papers were retrieved to improve the search accuracy. We identified the main areas of interest to describe the topic as follows: 1) ‘Surgery’, described through observational studies and reviews, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, IPD (individual data meta-analyses), and official guidelines (GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) or not GRADE-based); 2) Post-TB treatment functional evaluation; and 3) Pulmonary rehabilitation interventions. We also highlighted the priority areas for research for the three main areas of interest. The collection of high-quality standardized variables would allow advances in the understanding of the need for, and effectiveness of, pulmonary rehabilitation at both the individual and the programmatic level. The initial evidence supports the importance of the adequate functional evaluation of these patients, which is necessary to identify those who will benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation.
Which Type of Exercise Is More Beneficial for Cognitive Function? A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Open-Skill Exercise versus Closed-Skill Exercise among Children, Adults, and Elderly Populations
Authors: Zhu Hao , Chen Aiguo , Guo Wei , Zhu Fengshu , Wang Biye
Published: April 2020

A large number of studies have described a positive relationship between physical exercise and cognition. Physical exercise can be divided into closed-skill exercise (CSE) and open-skill exercise (OSE) based on the predictability of the performance environment. It remains unknown whether either of these types of exercise is more beneficial for cognitive function. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of OSE versus CSE on cognition. Eligible studies included cross-sectional studies and intervention studies that had a clear definition of OSE and CSE, and these were used to compare the cognitive performance differences between the two classes of exercise. A total of 15 cross-sectional studies and 4 intervention studies were included in this meta-analysis. Among the cross-sectional studies, the overall effect size for OSE versus CSE was 0.304 (95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.097, 1.213); p < 0.05). Further subgroup analysis showed that the overall effect size for OSE versus CSE was 0.247 for inhibition and 0.360 for cognitive flexibility (both p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant differences between the two exercise modes were observed in the intervention studies. In particular, there were no significant differences in visuospatial attention or in processing speed between the two exercise modes. Taken together, these results suggest that OSE is superior to CSE, especially for executive function, according to the 15 cross-sectional studies examined. However, data from the intervention studies indicate that OSE is not superior. Therefore, additional well-designed, long-term intervention studies are needed to elucidate the potential efficacy of OSE in all populations.
Renewable Energy Sources in a Post-Socialist Transitional Environment: The Influence of Social Geographic Factors on Potential Utilization of Very Shallow Geothermal Energy within Heating Systems in Small Serbian Town of Ub
Authors: Jocić Nikola , Müller Johannes , Požar Tea , Bertermann David
Published: April 2020

Energetic stability is a precondition for a regular functioning of society and economy. Actual climate change raised the awareness of population and policy makers about the importance of exploited energy sources. Renewable energy sources are revealed as the solution which should satisfy both needs—a need for energetic stability, as well as a need for producing ‘clean’ and ‘sustainable’ energy, and therefore reduce humans’ influence on the climate change. Very shallow geothermal energy offers wide range for utilization, among others for heating and cooling living spaces. This article shows potentials of low temperature heating system networks in a small Serbian town of Ub. In addition to technical possibilities, this article combines geographical and social, as well as political and economic circumstances in the town of Ub, which emerge as a result of a complex (post-socialist) transitional vortex.
Linear Accuracy of Full-Arch Digital Models Using Four Different Scanning Methods: An In Vitro Study Using a Coordinate Measuring Machine
Authors: Kim Young Hyun , Han Sang-Sun , Choi Yoon Joo , Woo Chang-Woo
Published: April 2020

Improving the accuracy of the digital model is essential for the digitalization of the dental field. This study introduced a novel method of objective accuracy evaluation of digitized full dental arch model using coordinate measuring machine (CMM). To obtain a true linear measurement value using the CMM, 17 reference balls were attached to the typodont, and 12 measurements between balls on the X-(width), Y-(length), and Z-axes (height) were performed automatically. A rubber impression and a plaster cast replica of the typodont with balls were fabricated, and they were digitized with following methods: (a) true model intraoral scans; (b) impression cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans; (c) cast CBCT scans; and (d) cast extraoral scans. Each scanning method was performed 20 times. Twelve linear measurements on the digitized models were automatically made using software. The one-sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for measurement accuracy analysis. The cast extraoral scan was most accurate on X- and Y-axes, while impression CBCT was the most accurate on Z-axis. Over all axes, the intraoral scan resulted in the most deviation from the true model, and the reproducibility of each scan was also low. Extraoral scan shows high precision on width and length, and impression CBCT is advantageous for dental work where height factor is of importance.
One-Pot Synthesis and Characterization of VO2(B) with a Large Voltage Window Electrochemical Performance in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Zheng Jiqi , Jing Xuyang , Cheng Yan , Meng Changgong
Published: April 2020

B-type vanadium dioxide (defined as VO2(B)) nanobelts were synthesized through using commercial ammonium metavanadate, oxalic acid via one-step hydrothermal technique. The structure of VO2(B) was characterized using different instruments. N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms revealed that the VO2(B) nanobelts were porous structures where BET surface area was 10.4 m2·g−1, the pore volume was 0.0687 cm3/g, and the average pore size was 42.7 nm. Furthermore, the VO2(B) nanobelts as supercapacitors electrode exhibited a large voltage window (−0.8~1.0 V). The measured capacitance was based on the pseudocapacitance. When the discharge current density is 0.5, 1, and 10 A·g−1, the VO2(B) shows the specific capacitance of 287, 246, and 222 F·g−1, respectively.
Adaptive Robust Force Position Control for Flexible Active Prosthetic Knee Using Gait Trajectory
Authors: Peng Fang , Wen Haiyang , Zhang Cheng , Xu Bugong , Li Jiehao , Su Hang
Published: April 2020

Active prosthetic knees (APKs) are widely used in the past decades. However, it is still challenging to make them more natural and controllable because: (1) most existing APKs that use rigid actuators have difficulty obtaining more natural walking; and (2) traditional finite-state impedance control has difficulty adjusting parameters for different motions and users. In this paper, a flexible APK with a compact variable stiffness actuator (VSA) is designed for obtaining more flexible bionic characteristics. The VSA joint is implemented by two motors of different sizes, which connect the knee angle and the joint stiffness. Considering the complexity of prothetic lower limb control due to unknown APK dynamics, as well as strong coupling between biological joints and prosthetic joints, an adaptive robust force/position control method is designed for generating a desired gait trajectory of the prosthesis. It can operate without the explicit model of the system dynamics and multiple tuning parameters of different gaits. The proposed model-free scheme utilizes the time-delay estimation technique, sliding mode control, and fuzzy neural network to realize finite-time convergence and gait trajectory tracking. The virtual prototype of APK was established in ADAMS as a testing platform and compared with two traditional time-delay control schemes. Some demonstrations are illustrated, which show that the proposed method has superior tracking characteristics and stronger robustness under uncertain disturbances within the trajectory error in ± 0 . 5 degrees. The VSA joint can reduce energy consumption by adjusting stiffness appropriately. Furthermore, the feasibility of this method was verified in a human–machine hybrid control model.
Design of a High-Performance Digital Slit-Lamp Microscope with Five-Switched Zoom
Authors: Huang Youping , Chen Xiaogang , Zhang Hao , Huang Shuyan , Lin Feng
Published: April 2020

In this study, we design and present a five-fold digital slit-lamp microscope (DSLM) with built-in photographic lens and CCD. The initial structures of the front objective, Galilean telescope system, and photographic lens are systematically investigated and discussed in the design. A progressive optimization process is employed in the non-coaxial system design after the coaxial system achieves high performance. The analysis of spot diagrams and the modulation transfer function (MTF) show that this DSLM optical system achieves quasi-diffraction-limited performance and enables high-quality imaging for ophthalmic examination. Furthermore, tolerance analysis of this optical system is also performed, which provides a theoretical basis for machining and assembly. This design provides an idea for the design of a digital-zoom microscope in biomedical imaging instruments.
Doxorubicin Assisted by Microsecond Electroporation Promotes Irreparable Morphological Alternations in Sensitive and Resistant Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Rembiałkowska Nina , Dubińska-Magiera Magda , Sikora Andrzej , Szlasa Wojciech , Szewczyk Anna , Czapor-Irzabek Hanna , Daczewska Małgorzata , Saczko Jolanta , Kulbacka Julita
Published: April 2020

Electroporation increases the transmembrane transport of molecules. The combination of electric pulses with cytostatic compounds is beneficial for cancer treatment. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic anticancer drug. Its fluorescence properties enable the investigation of drug distribution and metabolism. In this study, doxorubicin was enhanced by electroporation to eliminate cancer cells more effectively. The influence of electroporation on the drug uptake was evaluated in two cell lines: MCF-7/WT and MCF-7/DOX. The intracellular localization of doxorubicin and its impact on the intracellular structure organization were examined under a confocal microscope. Cellular effects were examined with the 3(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test that estimates the rate of metabolism in viable cells. The ultrastructure (TEM) of tumor cells subjected to the electric field was analyzed. An enhanced doxorubicin efficacy was observed in MCF-7/DOX cells after combination with electroporation. The response of the resistant cell line was revealed to be more sensitive to electric pulses. Electroporation-based methods may be attractive for cancer treatment in human breast adenocarcinoma, especially with acquired resistance. Electroporation enables a reduction of the effective dose of the drugs and the exposure time in this type of cancer, diminishing side effects of the systemic therapy.
Encapsulation of Dual Emitting Giant Quantum Dots in Silica Nanoparticles for Optical Ratiometric Temperature Nanosensors
Authors: Fanizza Elisabetta , Zhao Haiguang , De Zio Simona , Depalo Nicoletta , Rosei Federico , Vomiero Alberto , Curri M. Lucia , Striccoli Marinella
Published: April 2020

Accurate temperature measurements with a high spatial resolution for application in the biomedical fields demand novel nanosized thermometers with new advanced properties. Here, a water dispersible ratiometric temperature sensor is fabricated by encapsulating in silica nanoparticles, organic capped PbS@CdS@CdS “giant” quantum dots (GQDs), characterized by dual emission in the visible and near infrared spectral range, already assessed as efficient fluorescent nanothermometers. The chemical stability, easy surface functionalization, limited toxicity and transparency of the silica coating represent advantageous features for the realization of a nanoscale heterostructure suitable for temperature sensing. However, the strong dependence of the optical properties on the morphology of the final core–shell nanoparticle requires an accurate control of the encapsulation process. We carried out a systematic investigation of the synthetic conditions to achieve, by the microemulsion method, uniform and single core silica coated GQD (GQD@SiO2) nanoparticles and subsequently recorded temperature-dependent fluorescent spectra in the 281-313 K temperature range, suited for biological systems. The ratiometric response—the ratio between the two integrated PbS and CdS emission bands—is found to monotonically decrease with the temperature, showing a sensitivity comparable to bare GQDs, and thus confirming the effectiveness of the functionalization strategy and the potential of GQD@SiO2 in future biomedical applications.
Application of Soundproofing Materials for Noise Reduction in Dental CAD/CAM Milling Machines
Authors: Song Eun-Sung , Lim Young-Jun , Lee Joongsoo , Moon Jung-Bon , Kim Bongju
Published: April 2020

Soundproofing materials are widely used in various fields as a passive measure to reduce noise. Despite this, there have been a few studies on the application of soundproofing materials on medical equipment, which is the main cause of noise in a medical environment. Despite the increasing number of studies on active noise control for the noise reduction of machines, it is difficult to apply customized noise control—i.e., specific control measures according to the various characteristics of that noise—due to its high cost and low effectiveness. Therefore, research on passive noise control using soundproofing materials is required for effective noise control. The 3D CAD/CAM milling machine, which is an essential device in the digitalized dental environment, is causing various problems as a new noise source. This study investigated the noise of the milling machine and considered its characteristics in application of an efficient soundproofing material for noise reduction. Additionally, a soundproofing material performance test was conducted to select an appropriate soundproofing material based on the noise characteristics of the milling machine. As milling machines cause noise issues in hospitals, the study results were analyzed in considering practical aspects for immediate application to actual sale products. This study suggests that the application of Thinsulator and a triple soundproofing mat (butyl 100% + aluminum + sound-insulating material) is effective in the noise reduction of milling machines.
Evaluating the Impact of Turbulence Closure Models on Solute Transport Simulations in Meandering Open Channels
Authors: Kim Jun Song , Baek Donghae , Park Inhwan
Published: April 2020

River meanders form complex 3D flow patterns, including secondary flows and flow separation. In particular, the flow separation traps solutes and delays their transport via storage effects associated with recirculating flows. The simulation of the separated flows highly relies in the performance of turbulence models. Thus, these closure schemes can control dispersion behaviors simulated in rivers. This study performs 3D simulations to quantify the impact of the turbulence models on solute transport simulations in channels under different sinuosity conditions. The 3D Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations coupled with the k − ε , k − ω and SST k − ω models are adopted for flow simulations. The 3D Lagrangian particle-tracking model simulates solute transport. An increase in sinuosity causes strong transverse gradients of mean velocity, thereby driving the onset of the separated flow recirculation along the outer bank. Here, the onset and extent of the flow separation are strongly influenced by the turbulence models. The k − ε model fails to reproduce the flow separation or underestimates its size. As a result, the k − ε model yields residence times shorter than those of other models. In contrast, the SST k − ω model exhibits a strong tailing of breakthrough curves by generating more pronounced flow separation.
Intelligent Computer-Aided Diagnostic System for Magnifying Endoscopy Images of Superficial Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Kwang Baek , Yi Gyeong Yun , Kim Gwang Ha , Song Doo Heon , Jeon Hye Kyung
Published: April 2020

Predicting the depth of invasion of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (SESCCs) is important when selecting treatment modalities such as endoscopic or surgical resections. Recently, the Japanese Esophageal Society (JES) proposed a new simplified classification for magnifying endoscopy findings of SESCCs to predict the depth of tumor invasion based on intrapapillary capillary loops with the SESCC microvessels classified into the B1, B2, and B3 types. In this study, a four-step classification method for SESCCs is proposed. First, Niblack’s method was applied to endoscopy images to select a candidate region of microvessels. Second, the background regions were delineated from the vessel area using the high-speed fast Fourier transform and adaptive resonance theory 2 algorithm. Third, the morphological characteristics of the vessels were extracted. Based on the extracted features, the support vector machine algorithm was employed to classify the microvessels into the B1 and non-B1 types. Finally, following the automatic measurement of the microvessel caliber using the proposed method, the non-B1 types were sub-classified into the B2 and B3 types via comparisons with the caliber of the surrounding microvessels. In the experiments, 114 magnifying endoscopy images (47 B1-type, 48 B2-type, and 19 B3-type images) were used to classify the characteristics of SESCCs. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the classification into the B1 and non-B1 types were 83.3%, 74.5%, and 89.6%, respectively, while those for the classification of the B2 and B3 types in the non-B1 types were 73.1%, 73.7%, and 72.9%, respectively. The proposed machine learning based computer-aided diagnostic system could obtain the objective data by analyzing the pattern and caliber of the microvessels with acceptable performance. Further studies are necessary to carefully validate the clinical utility of the proposed system.
Recent Trends on Liquid Air Energy Storage: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Borri Emiliano , Tafone Alessio , Zsembinszki Gabriel , Comodi Gabriele , Romagnoli Alessandro , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: April 2020

The increasing penetration of renewable energy has led electrical energy storage systems to have a key role in balancing and increasing the efficiency of the grid. Liquid air energy storage (LAES) is a promising technology, mainly proposed for large scale applications, which uses cryogen (liquid air) as energy vector. Compared to other similar large-scale technologies such as compressed air energy storage or pumped hydroelectric energy storage, the use of liquid air as a storage medium allows a high energy density to be reached and overcomes the problem related to geological constraints. Furthermore, when integrated with high-grade waste cold/waste heat resources such as the liquefied natural gas regasification process and hot combustion gases discharged to the atmosphere, LAES has the capacity to significantly increase the round-trip efficiency. Although the first document in the literature on the topic of LAES appeared in 1974, this technology has gained the attention of many researchers around the world only in recent years, leading to a rapid increase in a scientific production and the realization of two system prototype located in the United Kingdom (UK). This study aims to report the current status of the scientific progress through a bibliometric analysis, defining the hotspots and research trends of LAES technology. The results can be used by researchers and manufacturers involved in this entering technology to understand the state of art, the trend of scientific production, the current networks of worldwide institutions, and the authors connected through the LAES. Our conclusions report useful advice for the future research, highlighting the research trend and the current gaps.
Day-Ahead Optimization of Prosumer Considering Battery Depreciation and Weather Prediction for Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Faraji Jamal , Abazari Ahmadreza , Babaei Masoud , Muyeen S. M. , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: April 2020

In recent years, taking advantage of renewable energy sources (RESs) has increased considerably due to their unique capabilities, such as a flexible nature and sustainable energy production. Prosumers, who are defined as proactive users of RESs and energy storage systems (ESSs), are deploying economic opportunities related to RESs in the electricity market. The prosumers are contracted to provide specific power for consumers in a neighborhood during daytime. This study presents optimal scheduling and operation of a prosumer owns RESs and two different types of ESSs, namely stationary battery (SB) and plugged-in electric vehicle (PHEV). Due to the intermittent nature of RESs and their dependency on weather conditions, this study introduces a weather prediction module in the energy management system (EMS) by the use of a feed-forward artificial neural network (FF-ANN). Linear regression results for predicted and real weather data have achieved 0.96, 0.988, and 0.230 for solar irradiance, temperature, and wind speed, respectively. Besides, this study considers the depreciation cost of ESSs in an objective function based on the depth of charge (DOD) reduction. To investigate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, predicted output and the real power of RESs are deployed, and a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model is used to solve the presented day-ahead optimization problem. Based on the obtained results, the predicted output of RESs yields a desirable operation cost with a minor difference (US$0.031) compared to the operation cost of the system using real weather data, which shows the effectiveness of the proposed EMS in this study. Furthermore, optimum scheduling with regard to ESSs depreciation term has resulted in the reduction of operation cost of the prosumer and depreciation cost of ESS in the objective function has improved the daily operation cost of the prosumer by $0.8647.
A Novel Sensorless Control for Multiphase Induction Motor Drives Based on Singularly Perturbed Sliding Mode Observer-Experimental Validation
Authors: Mossa Mahmoud A. , Echeikh Hamdi , Iqbal Atif , Duc Do Ton , Al-Sumaiti Ameena Saad
Published: April 2020

This paper aims to develop an innovative sensorless control approach for a five-phase induction motor (IM) drive. The operation principle of the sensorless scheme is based on the sliding mode theory, within which a sliding mode observer (SMO) estimates the speed and rotor resistance simultaneously. The operation methodology of the proposed control technique is formulated using the mathematical model of the machine and the two-time-scale approach. The observation technique offers a simple and robust solution of speed and rotor resistance estimation for the sensorless control approach of the multiphase drive. The paper considers the five-phase induction motor (IM) as a case study; however, the proposed control algorithm can be employed by different types of multiphase machines. To test the applicability of the proposed sensorless control approach, the drive performance is firstly validated using MATLAB/Simulink-based simulation. Then, the simulation results are verified using real-time simulation and experimentally using TMS320C32 DSP-based control board. The obtained results confirm and validate the ability of the proposed control procedure in achieving a robust dynamic performance of the drive against the system uncertainties such as parameter variation.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Cultivation of Plants Used for Biofuel Production in Poland
Authors: Wiśniewski Paweł , Kistowski Mariusz
Published: April 2020

A reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as an increase in the share of renewable energy are the main objectives of EU energy policy. In Poland, biofuels play an important role in the structure of obtaining energy from renewable sources. In the case of biofuels obtained from agricultural raw materials, one of the significant components of emissions generated in their full life cycle is emissions from the cultivation stage. The aim of the study is to estimate and recognize the structure of GHG emission from biomass production in selected farms in Poland. For this purpose, the methodology that was recommended by the Polish certification system of sustainable biofuels and bioliquids production, as approved by the European Commission, was used. The calculated emission values vary between 41.5 kg CO2eq/t and 147.2 kg CO2eq/t dry matter. The highest average emissions were obtained for wheat (103.6 kg CO2eq/t), followed by maize (100.5 kg CO2eq/t), triticale (95.4 kg CO2eq/t), and rye (72.5 kg CO2eq/t). The greatest impact on the total GHG emissions from biomass production is caused by field emissions of nitrous oxide and emissions from the production and transport of fertilizers and agrochemicals. Emissions that were generated at the stage of production, storage, and transport of seeds and during the use of fuels in agricultural and forestry machinery have a significantly smaller share in the total GHG emissions from biomass production.
Novel Apoptotic Mediators Identified by Conservation of Vertebrate Caspase Targets
Authors: Gubina Nina , Leboeuf Dominique , Piatkov Konstantin , Pyatkov Maxim
Published: April 2020

Caspases are proteases conserved throughout Metazoans and responsible for initiating and executing the apoptotic program. Currently, there are over 1800 known apoptotic caspase substrates, many of them known regulators of cell proliferation and death, which makes them attractive therapeutic targets. However, most caspase substrates are by-standers, and identifying novel apoptotic mediators amongst all caspase substrates remains an unmet need. Here, we conducted an in silico search for significant apoptotic caspase targets across different species within the Vertebrata subphylum, using different criteria of conservation combined with structural features of cleavage sites. We observed that P1 aspartate is highly conserved while the cleavage sites are extensively variable and found that cleavage sites are located primarily in coiled regions composed of hydrophilic amino acids. Using the combination of these criteria, we determined the final list of the 107 most relevant caspase substrates including 30 novel targets previously unknown for their role in apoptosis and cancer. These newly identified substrates can be potential regulators of apoptosis and candidates for anti-tumor therapy.
Fluorophore-Assisted Click Chemistry through Copper(I) Complexation
Authors: Flon Victor , Bénard Magalie , Schapman Damien , Galas Ludovic , Renard Pierre-Yves , Sabot Cyrille
Published: April 2020

The copper-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) is one of the most powerful chemical strategies for selective fluorescent labeling of biomolecules in in vitro or biological systems. In order to accelerate the ligation process and ensure efficient formation of conjugates under diluted conditions, external copper(I) ligands or sophisticated copper(I)-chelating azides are used. This latter strategy, however, increases the bulkiness of the triazole linkage, thus perturbing the biological function or dynamic behavior of the conjugates. In a proof-of-concept study, we investigated the use of an extremely compact fluorophore-based copper(I) chelating azide in order to accelerate the CuAAC with concomitant fluorescence labeling; in our strategy, the fluorophore is able to complex copper(I) species while retaining its photophysical properties. It is believed that this unprecedented approach which was applied for the labeling of a short peptide molecule and the fluorescent labeling of live cells, could be extended to other families of nitrogen-based fluorophores in order to tune both the reaction rate and photophysical characteristics.
Identification of Suitable Biomarkers for Stress and Emotion Detection for Future Personal Affective Wearable Sensors
Authors: Zamkah Abdulaziz , Hui Terence , Andrews Simon , Dey Nilanjan , Shi Fuqian , Sherratt R. Simon
Published: April 2020

Skin conductivity (i.e., sweat) forms the basis of many physiology-based emotion and stress detection systems. However, such systems typically do not detect the biomarkers present in sweat, and thus do not take advantage of the biological information in the sweat. Likewise, such systems do not detect the volatile organic components (VOC’s) created under stressful conditions. This work presents a review into the current status of human emotional stress biomarkers and proposes the major potential biomarkers for future wearable sensors in affective systems. Emotional stress has been classified as a major contributor in several social problems, related to crime, health, the economy, and indeed quality of life. While blood cortisol tests, electroencephalography and physiological parameter methods are the gold standards for measuring stress; however, they are typically invasive or inconvenient and not suitable for wearable real-time stress monitoring. Alternatively, cortisol in biofluids and VOCs emitted from the skin appear to be practical and useful markers for sensors to detect emotional stress events. This work has identified antistress hormones and cortisol metabolites as the primary stress biomarkers that can be used in future sensors for wearable affective systems.
Supported Tris-Triazole Ligands for Batch and Continuous-Flow Copper-Catalyzed Huisgen 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Pucci Alessandra , Albano Gianluigi , Pollastrini Matteo , Lucci Antonio , Colalillo Marialuigia , Oliva Fabrizio , Evangelisti Claudio , Marelli Marcello , Santalucia Delio , Mandoli Alessandro
Published: April 2020

The lack of supported versions of the tris[(1-benzyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl]amine (TBTA) ligand, suitable for flow-chemistry applications at scale, prompted us to develop a new route for the immobilization of such tris-triazole chelating units on highly cross-linked polystyrene resins. With this aim, the preparation of the known TBTA-type monomer 3 was optimized to develop a high-yield synthetic sequence, devoid of chromatographic purifications at any stage. Then, bead-type (P7) and monolithic (M7) functional resins were obtained by the easy and scalable suspension- or mold-copolymerization of 3 with divinylbenzene. Both types of materials were found to possess a highly porous morphology and specific surface area in the dry state and could be charged with substantial amounts of Cu(I) or Cu(II) salts. After treatment of the latter with a proper reducing agent, the corresponding supported Cu(I) complexes were tested in the copper-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition reaction (CuAAC). The immobilized catalysts proved active at room temperature and, in batch and with catalyst loadings as low as 0.6 mol%, afforded quantitative conversions within 20 h. Independent of the alkyne structure, extended use of the supported catalyst in flow was also possible. In the reaction of benzylazide and propargyl alcohol, this allowed a total turnover number larger than 400 to be reached.
Protein Phosphatases Type 2C Group A Interact with and Regulate the Stability of ACC Synthase 7 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Marczak Małgorzata , Cieśla Agata , Janicki Maciej , Kasprowicz-Maluśki Anna , Kubiak Piotr , Ludwików Agnieszka
Published: April 2020

Ethylene is an important plant hormone that controls growth, development, aging and stress responses. The rate-limiting enzymes in ethylene biosynthesis, the 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthases (ACSs), are strictly regulated at many levels, including posttranslational control of protein half-life. Reversible phosphorylation/dephosphorylation events play a pivotal role as signals for ubiquitin-dependent degradation. We showed previously that ABI1, a group A protein phosphatase type 2C (PP2C) and a key negative regulator of abscisic acid signaling regulates type I ACS stability. Here we provide evidence that ABI1 also contributes to the regulation of ethylene biosynthesis via ACS7, a type III ACS without known regulatory domains. Using various approaches, we show that ACS7 interacts with ABI1, ABI2 and HAB1. We use molecular modeling to predict the amino acid residues involved in ABI1/ACS7 complex formation and confirm these predictions by mcBiFC–FRET–FLIM analysis. Using a cell-free degradation assay, we show that proteasomal degradation of ACS7 is delayed in protein extracts prepared from PP2C type A knockout plants, compared to a wild-type extract. This study therefore shows that ACS7 undergoes complex regulation governed by ABI1, ABI2 and HAB1. Furthermore, this suggests that ACS7, together with PP2Cs, plays an essential role in maintaining appropriate levels of ethylene in Arabidopsis.
Characterization of RNP Networks of PUM1 and PUM2 Post-Transcriptional Regulators in TCam-2 Cells, a Human Male Germ Cell Model
Authors: Smialek Maciej J. , Ilaslan Erkut , Sajek Marcin P. , Swiercz Aleksandra , Janecki Damian M. , Kusz-Zamelczyk Kamila , Wozniak Tomasz , Kotecki Maciej , Handschuh Luiza , Figlerowicz Marek , Jaruzelska Jadwiga
Published: April 2020

Mammalian Pumilio (PUM) proteins are sequence-specific, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) with wide-ranging roles. They are involved in germ cell development, which has functional implications in development and fertility. Although human PUM1 and PUM2 are closely related to each other and recognize the same RNA binding motif, there is some evidence for functional diversity. To address that problem, first we used RIP-Seq and RNA-Seq approaches, and identified mRNA pools regulated by PUM1 and PUM2 proteins in the TCam-2 cell line, a human male germ cell model. Second, applying global mass spectrometry-based profiling, we identified distinct PUM1- and PUM2-interacting putative protein cofactors, most of them involved in RNA processing. Third, combinatorial analysis of RIP and RNA-Seq, mass spectrometry, and RNA motif enrichment analysis revealed that PUM1 and PUM2 form partially varied RNP-regulatory networks (RNA regulons), which indicate different roles in human reproduction and testicular tumorigenesis. Altogether, this work proposes that protein paralogues with very similar and evolutionary highly conserved functional domains may play divergent roles in the cell by combining with different sets of protein cofactors. Our findings highlight the versatility of PUM paralogue-based post-transcriptional regulation, offering insight into the mechanisms underlying their diverse biological roles and diseases resulting from their dysfunction.
Colocalization of MID1IP1 and c-Myc is Critically Involved in Liver Cancer Growth via Regulation of Ribosomal Protein L5 and L11 and CNOT2
Authors: Jung Ji Hoon , Lee Hyo-Jung , Kim Ju-Ha , Sim Deok Yong , Im Eunji , Kim Sinae , Chang Suhwan , Kim Sung-Hoon
Published: April 2020

Though midline1 interacting protein 1 (MID1IP1) was known as one of the glucose-responsive genes regulated by carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP), the underlying mechanisms for its oncogenic role were never explored. Thus, in the present study, the underlying molecular mechanism of MID1P1 was elucidated mainly in HepG2 and Huh7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCCs). MID1IP1 was highly expressed in HepG2, Huh7, SK-Hep1, PLC/PRF5, and immortalized hepatocyte LX-2 cells more than in normal hepatocyte AML-12 cells. MID1IP1 depletion reduced the viability and the number of colonies and also increased sub G1 population and the number of TUNEL-positive cells in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Consistently, MID1IP1 depletion attenuated pro-poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (pro-PARP), c-Myc and activated p21, while MID1IP1 overexpression activated c-Myc and reduced p21. Furthermore, MID1IP1 depletion synergistically attenuated c-Myc stability in HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Of note, MID1IP1 depletion upregulated the expression of ribosomal protein L5 or L11, while loss of L5 or L11 rescued c-Myc in MID1IP1 depleted HepG2 and Huh7 cells. Interestingly, tissue array showed that the overexpression of MID1IP1 was colocalized with c-Myc in human HCC tissues, which was verified in HepG2 and Huh7 cells by Immunofluorescence. Notably, depletion of CCR4-NOT2 (CNOT2) with adipogenic activity enhanced the antitumor effect of MID1IP1 depletion to reduce c-Myc, procaspase 3 and pro-PARP in HepG2, Huh7 and HCT116 cells. Overall, these findings provide novel insight that MID1IP1 promotes the growth of liver cancer via colocalization with c-Myc mediated by ribosomal proteins L5 and L11 and CNOT2 as a potent oncogenic molecule.
Extracellular Acidosis Promotes Metastatic Potency via Decrease of the BMAL1 Circadian Clock Gene in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kwon Yong-Jin , Seo Eun-Bi , Kwon Sun-Ho , Lee Song-Hee , Kim Seul-Ki , Park Sang Ki , Kim Kyungjin , Park SaeGwang , Park In-Chul , Park Jong-Wan , Ye Sang-Kyu
Published: April 2020

Circadian oscillation is an essential process that influences many physiological and biological mechanisms and a decrease of circadian genes is associated with many diseases such as cancer. Despite many efforts to identify the detailed mechanism for decreasing circadian genes and recovering reduced circadian genes in cancer, it is still largely unknown. We found that BMAL1 was reduced in tumor hypoxia-induced acidosis, and recovered by selectively targeting acidic pH in breast cancer cell lines. Surprisingly, BMAL1 was reduced by decrease of protein stability as well as inhibition of transcription under acidosis. In addition, melatonin significantly prevented acidosis-mediated decrease of BMAL1 by inhibiting lactate dehydrogenase-A during hypoxia. Remarkably, acidosis-mediated metastasis was significantly alleviated by BMAL1 overexpression in breast cancer cells. We therefore suggest that tumor hypoxia-induced acidosis promotes metastatic potency by decreasing BMAL1, and that tumor acidosis could be a target for preventing breast cancer metastasis by sustaining BMAL1.