bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Emotion Recognition with Electroencephalographic Multidimensional Features by Hybrid Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Li Youjun , Huang Jiajin , Zhou Haiyan , Zhong Ning
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study is to recognize human emotions by electroencephalographic (EEG) signals. The innovation of our research methods involves two aspects: First, we integrate the spatial characteristics, frequency domain, and temporal characteristics of the EEG signals, and map them to a two-dimensional image. With these images, we build a series of EEG Multidimensional Feature Image (EEG MFI) sequences to represent the emotion variation with EEG signals. Second, we construct a hybrid deep neural network to deal with the EEG MFI sequences to recognize human emotional states where the hybrid deep neural network combined the Convolution Neural Networks (CNN) and Long Short-Term-Memory (LSTM) Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN). Empirical research is carried out with the open-source dataset DEAP (a Dataset for Emotion Analysis using EEG, Physiological, and video signals) using our method, and the results demonstrate the significant improvements over current state-of-the-art approaches in this ﬁeld. The average emotion classification accuracy of each subject with CLRNN (the hybrid neural networks that we proposed in this study) is 75.21%.
Special Feature Development and Application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
Authors: Pircher Michael
Published: October 2017

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the introduction of OCT, the special feature issue entitled “Development and Application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)” had been initiated [...]
Neural Hyperexcitability in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Takarae Yukari , Sweeney John
Published: October 2017

Despite the progress that has been made in research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD), the understanding of the biological basis of ASD to identify targets for novel, effective treatment remains limited. One of the leading biological theories of autism is a model of cortical hyperexcitability. While numerous genetic and epigenetic studies support this model, how this particular biological alteration relates to known phenotypes in ASD is not well established. Using examples of sensory processing alterations, this review illustrates how cortical excitability may affect neural processes to result eventually in some core clinical phenotypes in ASD. Applications of the cortical excitability model for translational research and drug development are also discussed.
Graphene–Noble Metal Nano-Composites and Applications for Hydrogen Sensors
Authors: Basu Sukumar , Hazra Surajit
Published: October 2017

Graphene based nano-composites are relatively new materials with excellent mechanical, electrical, electronic and chemical properties for applications in the fields of electrical and electronic devices, mechanical appliances and chemical gadgets. For all these applications, the structural features associated with chemical bonding that involve other components at the interface need in-depth investigation. Metals, polymers, inorganic fibers and other components improve the properties of graphene when they form a kind of composite structure in the nano-dimensions. Intensive investigations have been carried out globally in this area of research and development. In this article, some salient features of graphene–noble metal interactions and composite formation which improve hydrogen gas sensing properties—like higher and fast response, quick recovery, cross sensitivity, repeatability and long term stability of the sensor devices—are presented. Mostly noble metals are effective for enhancing the sensing performance of the graphene–metal hybrid sensors, due to their superior catalytic activities. The experimental evidence for atomic bonding between metal nano-structures and graphene has been reported in the literature and it is theoretically verified by density functional theory (DFT). Multilayer graphene influences gas sensing performance via intercalation of metal and non-metal atoms through atomic bonding.
Chitosan Coating on Silica-Modified Polymethyl Methacrylate for Dental Applications
Authors: Więckiewicz Mieszko , Wolf Eric , Walczak Katarzyna , Meissner Heike , Boening Klaus
Published: October 2017

Chitosan is a cationic natural polymer that is widely used as a topical dressing in wound management. Temporary coatings of removable denture bases with chitosan might be useful as supportive treatment in oral medicine. The aim of this study was to analyze the thickness, uniformity, and adhesive strength of chitosan coatings on simulated denture bases made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). According to a standardized protocol, 20 PMMA cylinders (13 mm diameter, 5 mm in height) as well as 20 cubes (a = 25 mm) with intaglio U-shaped profiles were manufactured to simulate average sized alveolar ridges. Cylinders as well as cubes were divided into four test series with n = 5 each. After sandblasting with silica-modified alumina, one frontal surface of the PMMA cylinders and the intaglio surfaces of the U-shaped profiles was coated with chitosan acetate solution according to the following protocols: one layer of 2% chitosan acetate solution (test series I), one layer of 4% chitosan acetate solution (test series II), two layers of 2% chitosan acetate solution (test series III), and two layers of 4% chitosan acetate solution (test series IV). After drying and neutralization with NaOH, each cube was cut transversely and the coating thickness across the U-shaped profile assessed with a light microscope. Adhesive strength was evaluated by simulated tooth brushing and the loss of chitosan coating was evaluated qualitatively. Statistical analysis used Friedman ANOVA test for dependent samples and Kruskal-Wallis test for independent samples, post-hoc Dunn’s test (p < 0.05), and binomial test (p = 0.05). The mean chitosan coating thicknesses in the depth of the U-profiles were 71 µm (test series I), 77 µm (test series II), 121 µm (test series III), and 517 µm (test series VI). The thickness continuously decreased with rising angulation of the U-profile side walls. In test series I, the chitosan coating thickness significantly dropped above a 30° angulation of the U-profile side walls. In test series II to IV, the chitosan thickness drop was not statistically significant at angulations of 30° and 60°, but was at 90° angulation of the U-profile side walls. Adhesion strength was rated fair to good and did not differ significantly among the four test series. The coating technique described revealed chitosan layers with overall good adhesion strength but differing thicknesses. Coatings with one or two layers of 4% chitosan acetate solution allowed a relatively uniform chitosan thickness and thus might be usable in oral medicine.
Patterns of Spontaneous Nucleotide Substitutions in Grape Processed Pseudogenes
Authors: Porceddu Andrea , Camiolo Salvatore
Published: October 2017

Pseudogenes are dead copies of genes. Owing to the absence of functional constraint, all nucleotide substitutions that occur in these sequences are selectively neutral, and thus represent the spontaneous pattern of substitution within a genome. Here, we analysed the patterns of nucleotide substitutions in Vitis vinifera processed pseudogenes. In total, 259 processed pseudogenes were used to compile two datasets of nucleotide substitutions. The ancestral states of polymorphic sites were determined based on either parsimony or site functional constraints. An overall tendency towards an increase in the pseudogene A:T content was suggested by all of the datasets analysed. Low association was seen between the patterns and rates of substitutions, and the compositional background of the region where the pseudogene was inserted. The flanking nucleotide significantly influenced the substitution rates. In particular, we noted that the transition of G→A was influenced by the presence of C at the contiguous 5′ end base. This finding is in agreement with the targeting of cytosine to methylation, and the consequent methyl-cytosine deamination. These data will be useful to interpret the roles of selection in shaping the genetic diversity of grape cultivars.
Backtracking and Mixing Rate of Diffusion on Uncorrelated Temporal Networks
Authors: Gueuning Martin , Lambiotte Renaud , Delvenne Jean-Charles
Published: October 2017

We consider the problem of diffusion on temporal networks, where the dynamics of each edge is modelled by an independent renewal process. Despite the apparent simplicity of the model, the trajectories of a random walker exhibit non-trivial properties. Here, we quantify the walker’s tendency to backtrack at each step (return where he/she comes from), as well as the resulting effect on the mixing rate of the process. As we show through empirical data, non-Poisson dynamics may significantly slow down diffusion due to backtracking, by a mechanism intrinsically different from the standard bus paradox and related temporal mechanisms. We conclude by discussing the implications of our work for the interpretation of results generated by null models of temporal networks.
Mechanical Characteristics of Superhigh-Water Content Material Concretion and Its Application in Longwall Backfilling
Authors: Wang Xufeng , Qin Dongdong , Zhang Dongsheng , Sun Chundong , Zhang Chengguo , Xu Mengtang , Li Bo
Published: October 2017

Superhigh-water content material (SCM) has been widely utilized for goaf backfilling, grouting, and fire prevention and extinguishing. In this paper, the engineering mechanical characteristics of superhigh-water content material concretion (SCMC) were studied for two types of backfilling technologies in longwall mining—open-type and pocket-type backfilling. The mechanical properties and responses of the SCMC were assessed under different cementation states, varying loading conditions and at different scales. The results indicate that: (1) the compressive and tensile strengths of SCMC specimens in different cementation states increase as the curing time increases—the SCMC formed by a mixture of SCM and gangues has higher strength than that of pure SCM; (2) the SCMC is under different loading and confinement conditions when different backfilling technologies is applied; however the strength of SCMC increases with curing time and decreases with water volume percentage; and (3) large-size specimens of pure SCMC enter into an accelerated creep state at a leveled load of 1.4 MPa. The effects of SCM backfilling on subsidence control has been verified by field applications. The results presented in this paper can provide data support for the optimization of backfill mining technology using SCM, as well as for the design of hydraulic supports parameters at longwall faces.
Thermo-Economic Performance Analysis of a Regenerative Superheating Organic Rankine Cycle for Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Han Zhonghe , Li Peng , Han Xu , Mei Zhongkai , Wang Zhi
Published: October 2017

The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a promising form of technology for recovering low-grade waste heat. In this study, a regenerative ORC system is established to recover the waste flue gas of 160 °C. Focusing on thermodynamic and economic performance while simultaneously considering the limitations of volume flow ratio (VFR) and the effect of superheat, working fluid selection and parameter optimization have been investigated. The optimization of the evaporation temperature is carried out by analyzing the variation of net power output and specific investment cost (SIC). Then, the net power output, specific net power output, total exergy destruction rate, VFR, total capital cost, and levelized electricity cost (LEC) are selected as criteria, and a fuzzy multi-criteria evaluation method is adopted to select a more suitable working fluid and determine the optimal degree of superheat. In addition, the preheating coefficient, latent heat coefficient, superheating coefficient, and internal heat coefficient were proposed to explore the effect of working fluid critical temperature on thermal efficiency. Research studies demonstrate that there is an optimal evaporation temperature, maximizing net power output and minimizing the SIC. Isohexane and butane have greater specific net power output due to greater latent heat. A suitable degree of superheat is not only conducive to improving the working capacity of working fluids, but also reduces the VFR, total capital cost, SIC, and LEC for different working fluids. Thus, the system’s thermodynamic and economic performance—as well as the operational stability—are improved. Among the six working fluids, butane exhibits the best comprehensive performance, and its optimal evaporation temperature and degree of superheat are 100 °C and 5 °C, respectively.
Engineering Support for Handling Controller Conflicts in Energy Storage Systems Applications
Authors: Zanabria Claudia , Tayyebi Ali , Pröstl Andrén Filip , Kathan Johannes , Strasser Thomas
Published: October 2017

Energy storage systems will play a major role in the decarbonization of future sustainable electric power systems, allowing a high penetration of distributed renewable energy sources and contributing to the distribution network stability and reliability. To accomplish this, a storage system is required to provide multiple services such as self-consumption, grid support, peak-shaving, etc. The simultaneous activation of controllers operation may lead to conflicts, as a consequence the execution of committed services is not guaranteed. This paper presents and discusses a solution to the exposed issue by developing an engineering support approach to semi-automatically detect and handle conflicts for multi-usage storage systems applications. To accomplish that an ontology is developed and exploited by model-driven engineering mechanisms. The proposed approach is evaluated by implementing a use case example, where detection of conflicts is automatically done at an early design stage. Besides this, exploitable source code for conflicts resolution is generated and used during the design and prototype stages of controllers development. Thus, the proposed engineering support enhances the design and development of storage system controllers, especially for multi-usage applications.
Location of Faults in Power Transmission Lines Using the ARIMA Method
Authors: Pinto Moreira de Souza Danilo , Da Silva Christo Eliane , Rocha Almeida Aryfrance
Published: October 2017

One of the major problems in transmission lines is the occurrence of failures that affect the quality of the electric power supplied, as the exact localization of the fault must be known for correction. In order to streamline the work of maintenance teams and standardize services, this paper proposes a method of locating faults in power transmission lines by analyzing the voltage oscillographic signals extracted at the line monitoring terminals. The developed method relates time series models obtained specifically for each failure pattern. The parameters of the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model are estimated in order to adjust the voltage curves and calculate the distance from the initial fault localization to the terminals. Simulations of the failures are performed through the ATPDraw ® (5.5) software and the analyses were completed using the RStudio ® (1.0.143) software. The results obtained with respect to the failures, which did not involve earth return, were satisfactory when compared with widely used techniques in the literature, particularly when the fault distance became larger in relation to the beginning of the transmission line.
Optimal Energy Management and MPC Strategies for Electrified RTG Cranes with Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Alasali Feras , Haben Stephen , Becerra Victor , Holderbaum William
Published: October 2017

This article presents a study of optimal control strategies for an energy storage system connected to a network of electrified Rubber Tyre Gantry (RTG) cranes. The study aims to design optimal control strategies for the power flows associated with the energy storage device, considering the highly volatile nature of RTG crane demand and difficulties in prediction. Deterministic optimal energy management controller and a Model Predictive Controller (MPC) are proposed as potentially suitable approaches to minimise the electric energy costs associated with the real-time electricity price and maximise the peak demand reduction, under given energy storage system parameters and network specifications. A specific case study is presented in to test the proposed optimal strategies and compares them to a set-point controller. The proposed models used in the study are validated using data collected from an instrumented RTG crane at the Port of Felixstowe, UK and are compared to a standard set-point controller. The results of the proposed control strategies show a significant reduction in the potential electricity costs and peak power demand from the RTG cranes.
Sensitivity Analysis to Control the Far-Wake Unsteadiness Behind Turbines
Authors: Ferrer Esteban , Browne Oliver , Valero Eusebio
Published: October 2017

We explore the stability of wakes arising from 2D flow actuators based on linear momentum actuator disc theory. We use stability and sensitivity analysis (using adjoints) to show that the wake stability is controlled by the Reynolds number and the thrust force (or flow resistance) applied through the turbine. First, we report that decreasing the thrust force has a comparable stabilising effect to a decrease in Reynolds numbers (based on the turbine diameter). Second, a discrete sensitivity analysis identifies two regions for suitable placement of flow control forcing, one close to the turbines and one far downstream. Third, we show that adding a localised control force, in the regions identified by the sensitivity analysis, stabilises the wake. Particularly, locating the control forcing close to the turbines results in an enhanced stabilisation such that the wake remains steady for significantly higher Reynolds numbers or turbine thrusts. The analysis of the controlled flow fields confirms that modifying the velocity gradient close to the turbine is more efficient to stabilise the wake than controlling the wake far downstream. The analysis is performed for the first flow bifurcation (at low Reynolds numbers) which serves as a foundation of the stabilization technique but the control strategy is tested at higher Reynolds numbers in the final section of the paper, showing enhanced stability for a turbulent flow case.
Rapid Optimization of Double-Stators Switched Reluctance Motor with Equivalent Magnetic Circuit
Authors: Yao Wu-Sung
Published: October 2017

The primary objective for this paper is to create a methodology to rapidly optimize double-stators switched reluctance motor (DSSRM). An analytical model of equivalent magnetic circuits for the air gap reluctances of aligned and unaligned positions is proposed and the optimal operation point of the magneto-motive force (MMF) can be determined. Genetic algorithm (GA) integrated of the proposed equivalent magnetic circuit is developed for rapid optimization of DSSRM to reach the maximum of the ratio of torque to volume of DSSRM. Compared to conventional switched reluctance motor (SRM), an illustrated example of a 3-KW three-phase 12-Slot-8-Pole DSSRM is used to verify the efficiency of the proposed method. Simplified 2-D electromagnetic models are analyzed and simulated. Finally, results of the analytical calculations and the finite-element analysis (FEA) are validated by the proposed motor to show the accuracy of the designed strategy.
Social Preferences and Context Sensitivity
Authors: De Boer Jelle
Published: October 2017

This paper is a partial review of the literature on ‘social preferences'. There are empirical findings that convincingly demonstrate the existence of social preferences, but there are also studies that indicate their fragility. So how robust are social preferences, and how exactly are they context dependent? One of the most promising insights from the literature, in my view, is an equilibrium explanation of mutually referring conditional social preferences and expectations. I use this concept of equilibrium, summarized by means of a figure, to discuss a range of empirical studies. Where appropriate, I also briefly discuss a couple of insights from the (mostly parallel) evolutionary literature about cooperation. A concrete case of the Orma in Kenya will be used as a motivating example in the beginning.
Low-Grade Dysplastic Nodules Revealed as the Tipping Point during Multistep Hepatocarcinogenesis by Dynamic Network Biomarkers
Authors: Lu Lina , Jiang Zhonglin , Dai Yulin , Chen Luonan
Published: October 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex disease with a multi-step carcinogenic process from preneoplastic lesions, including cirrhosis, low-grade dysplastic nodules (LGDNs), and high-grade dysplastic nodules (HGDNs) to HCC. There is only an elemental understanding of its molecular pathogenesis, for which a key problem is to identify when and how the critical transition happens during the HCC initiation period at a molecular level. In this work, for the first time, we revealed that LGDNs is the tipping point (i.e., pre-HCC state rather than HCC state) of hepatocarcinogenesis based on a series of gene expression profiles by a new mathematical model termed dynamic network biomarkers (DNB)—a group of dominant genes or molecules for the transition. Different from the conventional biomarkers based on the differential expressions of the observed genes (or molecules) for diagnosing a disease state, the DNB model exploits collective fluctuations and correlations of the observed genes, thereby predicting the imminent disease state or diagnosing the critical state. Our results show that DNB composed of 59 genes signals the tipping point of HCC (i.e., LGDNs). On the other hand, there are a large number of differentially expressed genes between cirrhosis and HGDNs, which highlighted the stark differences or drastic changes before and after the tipping point or LGDNs, implying the 59 DNB members serving as the early-warning signals of the upcoming drastic deterioration for HCC. We further identified the biological pathways responsible for this transition, such as the type I interferon signaling pathway, Janus kinase–signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK–STAT) signaling pathway, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling pathway, retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor signaling pathway, cell adhesion molecules, and cell cycle. In particular, pathways related to immune system reactions and cell adhesion were downregulated, and pathways related to cell growth and death were upregulated. Furthermore, DNB was validated as an effective predictor of prognosis for HCV-induced HCC patients by survival analysis on independent data, suggesting a potential clinical application of DNB. This work provides biological insights into the dynamic regulations of the critical transitions during multistep hepatocarcinogenesis.
The Plasticizer Bisphenol A Perturbs the Hepatic Epigenome: A Systems Level Analysis of the miRNome
Authors: Renaud Ludivine , Silveira Willian A. da , Hazard E. Starr , Simpson Jonathan , Falcinelli Silvia , Chung Dongjun , Carnevali Oliana , Hardiman Gary
Published: October 2017

Ubiquitous exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor (ED), has raised concerns for both human and ecosystem health. Epigenetic factors, including microRNAs (miRNAs), are key regulators of gene expression during cancer. The effect of BPA exposure on the zebrafish epigenome remains poorly characterized. Zebrafish represents an excellent model to study cancer as the organism develops a disease that resembles human cancer. Using zebrafish as a systems toxicology model, we hypothesized that chronic BPA-exposure impacts the miRNome in adult zebrafish and establishes an epigenome more susceptible to cancer development. After a 3 week exposure to 100 nM BPA, RNA from the liver was extracted to perform high throughput mRNA and miRNA sequencing. Differential expression (DE) analyses comparing BPA-exposed to control specimens were performed using established bioinformatics pipelines. In the BPA-exposed liver, 6188 mRNAs and 15 miRNAs were differently expressed (q ≤ 0.1). By analyzing human orthologs of the DE zebrafish genes, signatures associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell cycle were uncovered. Chronic exposure to BPA has a significant impact on the liver miRNome and transcriptome in adult zebrafish with the potential to cause adverse health outcomes including cancer.
SAR Imaging of Archaeological Sites on Intertidal Flats in the German Wadden Sea
Authors: Gade Martin , Kohlus Jörn , Kost Cornelia
Published: October 2017

We show that high-resolution space-borne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery with pixel sizes smaller than 1 m2 can be used to complement archaeological surveys on intertidal flats. After major storm surges in the 14th and 17th centuries (“Grote Mandrenke”), vast areas on the German North Sea coast were lost to the sea. Areas of settlements and historical farmland were buried under sediments for centuries, but when the surface layer is driven away under the action of wind, currents, and waves, they appear again on the Wadden Sea surface. However, frequent flooding and erosion of the intertidal flats make any archaeological monitoring a difficult task, so that remote sensing techniques appear to be an efficient and cost-effective instrument for any archaeological surveillance of that area. Space-borne SAR images clearly show remains of farmhouse foundations and of former systems of ditches, dating back to the times before the “Grote Mandrenke”. In particular, the very high-resolution acquisition (“staring spotlight”) mode of the TerraSAR/TanDEM-X satellites allows detecting various kinds of remains of historical land use at high precision. Moreover, SARs working at lower microwave frequencies (e.g., that on Radarsat-2) may complement archaeological surveys of historical cultural traces, some of which have been unknown so far.
Peer Victimization among Classmates—Associations with Students’ Internalizing Problems, Self-Esteem, and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Låftman Sara , Modin Bitte
Published: October 2017

Bullying is a major problem in schools and a large number of studies have demonstrated that victims have a high excess risk of poor mental health. It may however also affect those who are not directly victimized by peers. The present study investigates whether peer victimization among classmates is linked to internalizing problems, self-esteem, and life satisfaction at the individual level, when the student’s own victimization has been taken into account. The data were derived from the first wave of the Swedish part of Youth in Europe Study (YES!), including information on 4319 students in grade 8 (14–15 years of age) distributed across 242 classes. Results from multilevel analyses show a significant association between classes with a high proportion of students being victimized and higher levels of internalizing problems, lower self-esteem, and lower life satisfaction at the student level. This association holds when the student’s own victimization has been taken into account. This suggests that peer victimization negatively affects those who are directly exposed, as well as their classmates. We conclude that efficient methods and interventions to reduce bullying in school are likely to benefit not only those who are victimized, but all students.
Regional Sustainable Development Analysis Based on Information Entropy—Sichuan Province as an Example
Authors: Liang Xuedong , Si Dongyang , Zhang Xinli
Published: October 2017

According to the implementation of a scientific development perspective, sustainable development needs to consider regional development, economic and social development, and the harmonious development of society and nature, but regional sustainable development is often difficult to quantify. Through an analysis of the structure and functions of a regional system, this paper establishes an evaluation index system, which includes an economic subsystem, an ecological environmental subsystem and a social subsystem, to study regional sustainable development capacity. A sustainable development capacity measure model for Sichuan Province was established by applying the information entropy calculation principle and the Brusselator principle. Each subsystem and entropy change in a calendar year in Sichuan Province were analyzed to evaluate Sichuan Province’s sustainable development capacity. It was found that the established model could effectively show actual changes in sustainable development levels through the entropy change reaction system, at the same time this model could clearly demonstrate how those forty-six indicators from the three subsystems impact on the regional sustainable development, which could make up for the lack of sustainable development research.
Microglia and Monocytes/Macrophages Polarization Reveal Novel Therapeutic Mechanism against Stroke
Authors: Kanazawa Masato , Ninomiya Itaru , Hatakeyama Masahiro , Takahashi Tetsuya , Shimohata Takayoshi
Published: October 2017

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and consists of two types, ischemic and hemorrhagic. Currently, there is no effective treatment to increase the survival rate or improve the quality of life after ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in the subacute to chronic phases. Therefore, it is necessary to establish therapeutic strategies to facilitate functional recovery in patients with stroke during both phases. Cell-based therapies, using microglia and monocytes/macrophages preconditioned by optimal stimuli and/or any therapies targeting these cells, might be an ideal therapeutic strategy for managing stroke. Microglia and monocytes/macrophages polarize to the classic pro-inflammatory type (M1-like) or alternative protective type (M2-like) by optimal condition. Cell-based therapies using M2-like microglia and monocytes/macrophages might be protective therapeutic strategies against stroke for three reasons. First, M2-like microglia and monocytes/monocytes secrete protective remodeling factors, thus prompting neuronal network recovery via tissue (including neuronal) and vascular remodeling. Second, these cells could migrate to the injured hemisphere through the blood–brain barrier or choroid–plexus. Third, these cells could mitigate the extent of inflammation-induced injuries by suitable timing of therapeutic intervention. Although future translational studies are required, M2-like microglia and monocytes/macrophages therapies are attractive for managing stroke based on their protective functions.
Myocardial Expression of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Pohl Julia , Hendgen-Cotta Ulrike , Stock Pia , Luedike Peter , Baba Hideo , Kamler Markus , Rassaf Tienush
Published: October 2017

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a pleiotropic inflammatory protein and contributes to several different inflammatory and ischemic/hypoxic diseases. MIF was shown to be cardioprotective in experimental myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and its expression is regulated by the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α. We here report on MIF expression in the failing human heart and assess myocardial MIF in different types of cardiomyopathy. Myocardial tissue samples from n = 30 patients were analyzed by quantitative Real-Time PCR. MIF and HIF-1α mRNA expression was analyzed in myocardial samples from patients with ischemic (ICM) and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) and from patients after heart transplantation (HTX). MIF expression was elevated in myocardial samples from patients with ICM compared to NICM. Transplanted hearts showed lower MIF levels compared to hearts from patients with ICM. Expression of HIF-1α was analyzed and was shown to be significantly increased in ICM patients compared to patients with NICM. MIF and HIF-1α mRNA is expressed in the human heart. MIF and HIF-1α expression depends on the underlying type of cardiomyopathy. Patients with ICM show increased myocardial MIF and HIF-1α expression.
The “Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology” Journal Club Series: Highlights on Recent Papers in Strength and Conditioning
Authors: Stapley Paul , McAndrew Darryl , Walsh Joel , Kellis Eleftherios , Mickel Christoph , Paoli Antonio
Published: October 2017

We are pleased to introduce the sixth Journal Club. This edition is focused on several relevant studies published in the last years in the field of Strength and Conditioning, chosen by our Editorial Board members and their colleagues. We hope to stimulate your curiosity in this field and to share with you the passion for sport and exercise seen from a scientific point of view. The Editorial Board members wish you an inspiring read.
ABORt: Acknowledgement-Based Opportunistic Routing Protocol for High Data Rate Multichannel WSNs
Authors: Tall Hamadoun , Chalhoub Gérard
Published: October 2017

The ease of deployment and the auto-configuration capabilities of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) make them very attractive in different domains like environmental, home automation or heath care applications. The use of multichannel communications in WSNs helps to improve the overall performance of the network. However, in heavy traffic scenarios, routing protocols should be adapted to allow load balancing and to avoid losing data packets due to congestion and queue overflow. In this paper, we present an Acknowledgement-Based Opportunistic Routing (ABORt) protocol designed for high data rate multichannel WSNs. It is a low overhead protocol that does not rely on synchronization for control traffic exchange during the operational phase of the network. ABORt is an opportunistic protocol that relies on link layer acknowledgements to disseminate routing metrics, which helps to reduce overhead. The performance of ABORt is evaluated using the Cooja simulator and the obtained results show that ABORt has a high packet delivery ratio with reduced packet end-to-end delay compared to two single channel routing protocols and two multichannel routing protocols that use number of hops and expected transmission count as routing metrics.
On the Acceptability and Use of -ra and -se in Conditional Phrases in Galician Spanish
Authors: Anderson Ana
Published: October 2017

The verb forms ending in -ra and -se in modern Spanish both correspond to the imperfect subjunctive, but their use is far from equal throughout the Spanish-speaking world. Rojo (1996) documents that the -se form is all but obsolete in the majority of American nations, and Kempas (2011) records rates of use in Spain ranging from 11% to 44%. The highest rate corresponds to usage patterns in Galicia, where contact with the regional language, Galician, may provide a conservative influence with respect to the shift from -se to -ra. The present study considers the effects of age, sex, and primary language, as well as linguistic factors such as possibility of the event (i.e., Lavandera (1975)) on the acceptability and choice of -se or -ra in the protasis of conditional statements in Galician Spanish. To accomplish this, 29 speakers completed an online acceptability rating task of 24 statements with varying combinations of verb forms in the protasis and apodosis. They were asked to correct those statements that they rejected as incorrect and unused in their own speech, and their produced corrections were compared to their acceptance or rejection of forms in the models. Results indicated that neither social factors nor possibility significantly affect the acceptance of phrases in -ra or -se. However, individual idiosyncrasies do affect the production of these verb forms, in line with results from Kempas (2011) and Rojo and Vázquez Rozas (2014).
1,8-bis(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl)-4,11-dibenzyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane
Authors: Aranburu Leiva Ane , Kaur Mandeep , Benjamin Sophie , Jones Alan , Langley Stuart , Mewis Ryan
Published: October 2017

A cyclam (1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)-based macrocycle bearing two benzyl and two 2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl pendent arms was synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic techniques and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The macrocycle crystallizes in the triclinic space group P-1, with the asymmetric unit containing one-half of the molecule. The structure is stabilized by hydrogen-bonding which exists between the phenolic protons and the nitrogen atoms of the macrocyclic ring. The presence of this hydrogen bonding is observed in the 1H-NMR due to the deshielded nature of the phenolic OH peak (δ 9.99). Cyclic voltammetry of the ligand revealed a single quasi-reversible peak at −0.58 V (Epc = −0.48 V and Epa = −0.68 V), which is due to the electrochemical oxidation of the phenol to the phenoxyl radical.
The Flexural Strength and Fracture Toughness of TC4-Based Laminated Composites Reinforced with Ti Aluminide and Carbide
Authors: Fei Yanhan , Ai Taotao , Niu Qunfei , Li Wenhu , Yuan Xinqiang , Jing Ran , Dong Hongfeng
Published: October 2017

TiC–Ti–Al mixed powders and TC4 titanium alloy foils were overlapped layer-by-layer in the graphite die. The TC4-based laminated composite sheets reinforced by Ti aluminide and carbide were successfully fabricated via spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1100 °C with a well-bonded interface. The composite layers were mainly composed of TiAl, Ti3Al, Ti2AlC, and Ti3AlC2 phases. The carbides particles distributed in the matrix played an important role in the deflection of cracks and the passivation of microcracks. TC4 titanium alloy layers had an obvious effect on the stress distribution during the loading process, and provided an energy dissipation mechanism, which could improve the mechanical properties of the laminated composite sheets obviously. When the theoretical amount of Ti2AlC was 20 wt %, the flexural strength and fracture toughness of the laminated composite sheets reached the maximum value in the arrester direction, which were 1428.79 MPa and 64.08 MPa·m1/2, respectively.
Guanidinium Toxins and Their Interactions with Voltage-Gated Sodium Ion Channels
Authors: Durán-Riveroll Lorena , Cembella Allan
Published: October 2017

Guanidinium toxins, such as saxitoxin (STX), tetrodotoxin (TTX) and their analogs, are naturally occurring alkaloids with divergent evolutionary origins and biogeographical distribution, but which share the common chemical feature of guanidinium moieties. These guanidinium groups confer high biological activity with high affinity and ion flux blockage capacity for voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV). Members of the STX group, known collectively as paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs), are produced among three genera of marine dinoflagellates and about a dozen genera of primarily freshwater or brackish water cyanobacteria. In contrast, toxins of the TTX group occur mainly in macrozoa, particularly among puffer fish, several species of marine invertebrates and a few terrestrial amphibians. In the case of TTX and analogs, most evidence suggests that symbiotic bacteria are the origin of the toxins, although endogenous biosynthesis independent from bacteria has not been excluded. The evolutionary origin of the biosynthetic genes for STX and analogs in dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria remains elusive. These highly potent molecules have been the subject of intensive research since the latter half of the past century; first to study the mode of action of their toxigenicity, and later as tools to characterize the role and structure of NaV channels, and finally as therapeutics. Their pharmacological activities have provided encouragement for their use as therapeutants for ion channel-related pathologies, such as pain control. The functional role in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems for both groups of toxins is unproven, although plausible mechanisms of ion channel regulation and chemical defense are often invoked. Molecular approaches and the development of improved detection methods will yield deeper understanding of their physiological and ecological roles. This knowledge will facilitate their further biotechnological exploitation and point the way towards development of pharmaceuticals and therapeutic applications.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al-5Mg-0.8Mn Alloys with Various Contents of Fe and Si Cast under Near-Rapid Cooling
Authors: Liu Yulin , Sun Yimeng , Zhang Li , Zhao Yuhua , Wang Jijie , Liu Chunzhong
Published: October 2017

Al-5Mg-0.8Mn alloys (AA5083) with various iron and silicon contents were cast under near-rapid cooling and rolled into sheets. The aim was to study the feasibility of minimizing the deteriorating level of the harmful Fe-rich phases on the mechanical properties through refining the intermetallics by significantly increasing the casting rate. The results showed that the size and density of the intermetallic particles that remained in the hot bands and the cold rolled sheets increased as the contents of iron and silicon in the alloys were increased. However, the increment of the particle sizes was limited due to the significant refinement of the intermetallics formed during casting under near-rapid cooling. The mechanical properties of the alloys reduced as the contents of iron and silicon in the alloys increased. However, the decrement of tensile strengths and ductility was quite small. Therefore, higher contents of iron and silicon could be used in the Al-5Mg-0.8Mn alloy (AA5083 alloy) when the material is cast under near-rapid cooling, such as in the continuous strip casting process.
Phase Diagram of Al-Ca-Mg-Si System and Its Application for the Design of Aluminum Alloys with High Magnesium Content
Authors: Belov Nikolay A. , Naumova Evgenia A. , Akopyan Torgom K. , Doroshenko Vitaliy V.
Published: October 2017

The phase transformations in the Al-Ca-Mg-Si system have been studied using thermodynamic calculations and experimental methods. We show that at 10% Magnesium (Mg), depending on the concentrations of calcium (Ca) and silicon (Si), the following phases crystallize first (apart from the aluminum (Al) solid solution): Al4Ca, Mg2Si, and Al2CaSi2. We have found that the major part of the calculated concentration range is covered by the region of the primary crystallization of the Al2CaSi2 phase. Regardless of the Ca and Si content, the solidification of the aluminum-magnesium alloys ends with the following nonvariant eutectic reaction: L → (Al) + Al4Ca + Mg2Si + Al3Mg2. With respect to the temperature and composition of the liquid phase, this reaction is close to the eutectic reaction in the Al-Mg binary system. The addition of Ca and Si to the Al-10% Mg base alloy increases its hardness, reduces its density, and has no negative influence on its corrosion resistance. We have also established that the near-eutectic alloy containing about 3% Ca and 1% Si has the optimum structure.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of Limestone Ore for CaO Estimation under Dry and Wet Conditions
Authors: Oh Sungchan , Hyun Chang-Uk , Park Hyeong-Dong
Published: October 2017

Quantitative analysis of CaO in limestone mining is mandatory, not only for ore exploration, but also for grade control. A partial least squares regression (PLSR) CaO estimation technique was developed for limestone mining. The proposed near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR)-based method uses reflectance spectra of the rock sample surface in the visible to short-wave infrared wavelength regions (350–2500 nm (4000–28,571 cm−1)) without the need to crush and pulverize the rock samples. The root mean square (RMS) error of CaO estimation using limestone ore fragment was 1.2%. The CaO content estimated by the PLSR method was used to predict average CaO content of composite samples with a sample size of 15, which resulted in an RMS error of 0.3%. The prediction accuracy with moisture on sample surfaces was also examined to find out if the NIR-based method showed a similar RMS error. Results suggest that the NIR technique can be used as a rapid assaying method in limestone workings with or without the presence of groundwater.
Stereopermutation on the Putative Structure of the Marine Natural Product Mucosin
Authors: Antonsen Simen , Gallantree-Smith Harrison , Görbitz Carl , Hansen Trond , Stenstrøm Yngve , Nolsøe Jens
Published: October 2017

A stereodivergent total synthesis has been executed based on the plausibly misassigned structure of the unusual marine hydrindane mucosin (1). The topological connectivity of the four contiguous all-carbon stereocenters has been examined by selective permutation on the highlighted core. Thus, capitalizing on an unprecedented stereofacial preference of the cis-fused bicycle[4.3.0]non-3-ene system when a Michael acceptor motif is incorporated, copper-mediated conjugate addition furnished a single diastereomer. Cued by the relative relationship reported for the appendices in the natural product, the resulting anti-adduct was elaborated into a probative target structure 1*.
Molecular Mechanics of the Moisture Effect on Epoxy/Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Tam Lik-ho , Wu Chao
Published: October 2017

The strong structural integrity of polymer nanocomposite is influenced in the moist environment; but the fundamental mechanism is unclear, including the basis for the interactions between the absorbed water molecules and the structure, which prevents us from predicting the durability of its applications across multiple scales. In this research, a molecular dynamics model of the epoxy/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) nanocomposite is constructed to explore the mechanism of the moisture effect, and an analysis of the molecular interactions is provided by focusing on the hydrogen bond (H-bond) network inside the nanocomposite structure. The simulations show that at low moisture concentration, the water molecules affect the molecular interactions by favorably forming the water-nanocomposite H-bonds and the small cluster, while at high concentration the water molecules predominantly form the water-water H-bonds and the large cluster. The water molecules in the epoxy matrix and the epoxy-SWCNT interface disrupt the molecular interactions and deteriorate the mechanical properties. Through identifying the link between the water molecules and the nanocomposite structure and properties, it is shown that the free volume in the nanocomposite is crucial for its structural integrity, which facilitates the moisture accumulation and the distinct material deteriorations. This study provides insights into the moisture-affected structure and properties of the nanocomposite from the nanoscale perspective, which contributes to the understanding of the nanocomposite long-term performance under the moisture effect.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations and Indicators of Mental Health: An Analysis of the Canadian Health Measures Survey
Authors: Chu Filmer , Ohinmaa Arto , Klarenbach Scott , Wong Zing-Wae , Veugelers Paul
Published: October 2017

The main function of vitamin D is calcium homeostasis. However, emerging evidence has correlated adequate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations with better mental health. The objective of this study is to investigate the association of serum 25(OH)D concentrations with indicators of mental health such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Associations of serum 25(OH)D concentrations with four indicators of mental health were examined using ordered logistic regression models with increasing specificity that account for demographics, socio-economic status, and health. Margin effects are used to determine the probability of the average adult Canadian being in the best mental health state by groupings of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. A robust association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and the indicators of mental health were observed. In the fully adjusted ordered logistic model, an average Canadian appeared more likely to experience better mental health when serum 25(OH)D concentrations were higher. This study adds to the weight of the existence of an association between vitamin D status and mental health, but, as this study is cross sectional, it does not establish causality. Due to the low risk of harm from toxicity and the relative modest costs of vitamin D supplements, more research to establish the effectiveness and causality of this relationship is recommended.