bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoclassical Navier–Stokes Equations Considering the Gyftopoulos–Beretta Exposition of Thermodynamics
Authors: Badur Janusz , Feidt Michel , Ziółkowski Paweł
Published: April 2020

The seminal Navier–Stokes equations were stated even before the creation of the foundations of thermodynamics and its first and second laws. There is a widespread opinion in the literature on thermodynamic cycles that the Navier–Stokes equations cannot be taken as a thermodynamically correct model of a local “working fluid”, which would be able to describe the conversion of “heating” into “working” (Carnot’s type cycles) and vice versa (Afanasjeva’s type cycles). Also, it is overall doubtful that “cycle work is converted into cycle heat” or vice versa. The underlying reason for this situation is that the Navier–Stokes equations come from a time when thermodynamic concepts such as “internal energy” were still poorly understood. Therefore, this paper presents a new exposition of thermodynamically consistent Navier–Stokes equations. Following that line of reasoning—and following Gyftopoulos and Beretta’s exposition of thermodynamics—we introduce the basic concepts of thermodynamics such as “heating” and “working” fluxes. We also develop the Gyftopoulos and Beretta approach from 0D into 3D continuum thermodynamics. The central role within our approach is played by “internal energy” and “energy conversion by fluxes.” Therefore, the main problem of exposition relates to the internal energy treated here as a form of “energy storage.” Within that context, different forms of energy are discussed. In the end, the balance of energy is presented as a sum of internal, kinetic, potential, chemical, electrical, magnetic, and radiation energies in the system. These are compensated by total energy flux composed of working, heating, chemical, electrical, magnetic, and radiation fluxes at the system boundaries. Therefore, the law of energy conservation can be considered to be the most important and superior to any other law of nature. This article develops and presents in detail the neoclassical set of Navier–Stokes equations forming a thermodynamically consistent model. This is followed by a comparison with the definition of entropy (for equilibrium and non-equilibrium states) within the context of available energy as proposed in the Gyftopoulos and Beretta monograph. The article also discusses new possibilities emerging from this “continual” Gyftopoulos–Beretta exposition with special emphasis on those relating to extended irreversible thermodynamics or Van’s “universal second law”.
Energy Storage System Event-Driven Frequency Control Using Neural Networks to Comply with Frequency Grid Code
Authors: Jeong Soseul , Lee Junghun , Yoon Minhan , Jang Gilsoo
Published: April 2020

As the penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) increases, the rate of conventional generators and the power system inertia are reduced accordingly, resulting in frequency-stability concerns. As one of the solutions, the battery-type energy storage system (ESS), which can rapidly charge and discharge energy, is utilized for frequency regulation. Typically, it is based on response-driven frequency control (RDFC), which adjusts its output according to the measured frequency. In contrast, event-driven frequency control (EDFC) involves a determined frequency support scheme corresponding to a particular event. EDFC has the advantage that control action is promptly performed compared to RDFC. This study proposes an ESS EDFC strategy that involves estimating the required operating point of the ESS according to a specific disturbance through neural-network training. When a disturbance occurs, the neural networks can estimate the proper magnitude and duration of the ESS output to comply with the frequency grid code. A simulation to validate the proposed control method was performed for an IEEE 39 bus system. The simulation results indicate that a neural-network estimation offers sufficient accuracy for practical use, and frequency response can be adjusted as intended by the system operator.
Ethanol Electrooxidation at Platinum-Rare Earth (RE = Ce, Sm, Ho, Dy) Binary Alloys
Authors: Santos D.M.F. , Lourenço J.R.B. , Macciò D. , Saccone A. , Sequeira C.A.C. , Figueiredo J.L.
Published: April 2020

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells and direct alcohol fuel cells have been extensively studied over the last three decades or so. They have emerged as potential systems to power portable applications, providing clean energy, and offering good commercial viability. Ethanol is considered one of the most interesting fuels in this field. Herein, platinum-rare earth (Pt-RE) binary alloys (RE = Ce, Sm, Ho, Dy, nominal composition 50 at.% Pt) were produced and studied as anodes for ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in alkaline medium. A Pt-Dy alloy with nominal composition 40 at.% Pt was also tested. Their electrocatalytic performance was evaluated by voltammetric and chronoamperometric measurements in 2 M NaOH solution with different ethanol concentrations (0.2–0.8 M) in the 25–45 °C temperature range. Several EOR kinetic parameters were determined for the Pt-RE alloys, namely the charge transfer and diffusion coefficients, and the number of exchanged electrons. Charge transfer coefficients ranging from 0.60 to 0.69 and n values as high as 0.7 were obtained for the Pt0.5Sm0.5 electrode. The EOR reaction order at the Pt-RE alloys was found to vary between 0.4 and 0.9. The Pt-RE electrodes displayed superior performance for EOR than bare Pt, with Pt0.5Sm0.5 exhibiting the highest electrocatalytic activity. The improved electrocatalytic activity in all of the evaluated Pt-RE binary alloys suggests a strategy for the solution of the existing anode issues due to the structure-sensitive EOR.
Real-Time Selective Harmonic Mitigation Technique for Power Converters Based on the Exchange Market Algorithm
Authors: Marquez Alcaide Abraham , I. Leon Jose , Laguna Marta , Gonzalez-Rodriguez Francisco , Portillo Ramon , Zafra-Ratia Eduardo , Vazquez Sergio , G. Franquelo Leopoldo , Bayhan Sertac , Abu-Rub Haitham
Published: April 2020

Hand-in-hand with the smart-grid paradigm development, power converters used in high-power applications are facing important challenges related to efficiency and power quality. To overcome these issues, the pre-programmed Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) methods have been extensively applied to reduce the harmonic distortion with very low power switching losses for high-power converters. Among the pre-programmed PWM techniques, Selective Harmonic Elimination (SHE) has been the prevailing solution, but recently, Selective Harmonic Mitigation (SHM) stands as a superior alternative to provide further control of the harmonic spectrum with similar losses. However, the large computational burden required by the SHM method to find a solution confines it as an off-line application, where the switching set valid solutions are pre-computed and stored in a memory. In this paper, for the first time, a real-time implementation of SHM using an off-the-shelf mid-range microcontroller is presented and tested. The Exchange Market Algorithm (EMA), initially focused on optimizing financial transactions, is considered and executed to achieve the SHM targets. The performance of the EMA-based SHM is presented showing experimental results considering a reduced number of switching angles applied to a specific three-level converter, but the method can be extrapolated to any other three-level converter topology.
Mean Annual Wood Density Variations of Larix gmelinii (Rupr.), Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Ledeb., and Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. at Two Different Stem Heights
Authors: Sprengel Lars , Cheng Zhongqian , Hipler Sandra-Maria , Wu Shuirong , Spiecker Heinrich
Published: April 2020

Forests are a large carbon sink with an additional substitution effect in the merchantable timber compartment of harvested trees, where carbon stored within the same volume of wood varies depending on wood density. Here, we investigated mean annual air-dry wood density variations depending on cambial age, annual radial increment, and two different stem heights of Larix gmelinii (Rupr.), Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex. Ledeb., and Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. from a first climatic region (Mulan Forest) and exclusively of P. tabulaeformis from a second climatic region (Zhongtiaoshan Forest) in the temperate zone of China. We applied linear mixed-effects models with partly transformed variables and estimated marginal means for pairwise comparisons. Results showed that mean wood density was not significantly different between L. gmelinii (0.626 g cm−3) and Q. mongolica (0.596 g cm−3), but significantly different between P. tabulaeformis from the two different climatic regions (0.445 g cm−3 in Mulan Forest and 0.521 g cm−3 in Zhongtiaoshan Forest). Mean annual wood density within trees except for P. tabulaeformis from Mulan Forest was initially increasing until an intermediate cambial age, after which it decreased again to lower values. These findings showed that tree age had to be considered in assessing carbon sequestration in wood. It also could play an important role in decision making for forest management in Mulan Forest and show the benefit of the wood properties and carbon storage potential of the faster growing L. gmelinii compared to Q. mongolica. Furthermore, these findings gave an indication that intermediate old forest stands for some tree species accumulated more carbon per year within their woody biomass than young stands or old growth forests. Our results may have an impact on the planning of rotation lengths and of tree species composition for forest stands in Mulan Forest and Zhongtiaoshan Forest.
Responses to Water Deficit and Salt Stress in Silver Fir (Abies alba Mill.) Seedlings
Authors: Todea (Morar) Irina Maria , González-Orenga Sara , Boscaiu Monica , Plazas Mariola , Sestras Adriana F. , Prohens Jaime , Vicente Oscar , Sestras Radu E.
Published: April 2020

Forest ecosystems are frequently exposed to abiotic stress, which adversely affects their growth, resistance and survival. For silver fir (Abies alba), the physiological and biochemical responses to water and salt stress have not been extensively studied. Responses of one-year-old seedlings to a 30-day water stress (withholding irrigation) or salt stress (100, 200 and 300 mM NaCl) treatments were analysed by determining stress-induced changes in growth parameters and different biochemical markers: accumulation of ions, different osmolytes and malondialdehyde (MDA, an oxidative stress biomarker), in the seedlings, and activation of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems. Both salt and water stress caused growth inhibition. The results obtained indicated that the most relevant responses to drought are based on the accumulation of soluble carbohydrates as osmolytes/osmoprotectants. Responses to high salinity, on the other hand, include the active transport of Na+, Cl− and Ca2+ to the needles, the maintenance of relatively high K+/Na+ ratios and the accumulation of proline and soluble sugars for osmotic balance. Interestingly, relatively high Na+ concentrations were measured in the needles of A. alba seedlings at low external salinity, suggesting that Na+ can contribute to osmotic adjustment as a ‘cheap’ osmoticum, and its accumulation may represent a constitutive mechanism of defence against stress. These responses appear to be efficient enough to avoid the generation of high levels of oxidative stress, in agreement with the small increase in MDA contents and the relatively weak activation of the tested antioxidant systems.
Aggregated Biomass Model Systems and Carbon Concentration Variations for Tree Carbon Quantification of Natural Mongolian Oak in Northeast China
Authors: Widagdo Faris Rafi Almay , Li Fengri , Zhang Lianjun , Dong Lihu
Published: April 2020

Three systems of additive biomass models were developed and the effects of tree components, tree sizes, and tree growing regions on the carbon concentration were analyzed for Mongolian oak (Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Ledeb.) in the natural forests of Northeastern China. The nonlinear seemingly unrelated regression (NSUR) method was used to fit each of the three systems simultaneously; namely, aggregated model systems with no parameter restriction (AMS0), aggregated model systems with one parameter restriction (AMS1), and aggregated model systems with three parameter restrictions (AMS3). A unique weighting function for each biomass model was applied to address the heteroscedasticity issue. The systems assertively guarantee the additivity property, in which, the summation of the respective predicted tree components (i.e., root, stem, branch, and foliage) will match the prediction of subtotals (i.e., crown and aboveground) and total biomass. Using one-, two-, and three-predictor combinations (i.e., D (diameter at breast height), D and H (total height), and D, H, and CL (crown length)) as the general model underlying formats, three systems of additive biomass model were developed. Our results indicate that (1) all of the aggregated model systems performed well and the differences between the systems were relatively small; (2) the rank order of the three systems based on an array of statistics are as follows: AMS0 > AMS1 > AMS3; (3) the carbon concentration significantly varied depending on the types of tree tissues and growing regions; (4) the regional respective component carbon concentration and regional weighted mean carbon concentration multiplied by observed biomass value appeared to be the best approach to calculate carbon stock.
Predictive Correlation between Apparent Sensory Properties and the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines in Chicken Breast as a Function of Grilling Temperature and Time
Authors: Pleva Dániel , Lányi Katalin , Darnay Lívia , Laczay Péter
Published: April 2020

In the present set of experiments, we studied the correlation between the heterocyclic amine (HCA) concentration and the color changes of the chicken breast with or without skin during grilling under open or closed conditions as a function of the applied temperature and time. The concentration of the HCAs formed during grilling was measured by a validated LC–MS/MS method, whereas the color changes were determined either instrumentally or by visual observation. In general, higher temperatures and longer heat treatment times resulted in a more substantial HCA formation, especially on the surface of the samples and in the skin, where the total levels reached 746 ng/g. Results of regression analysis demonstrate a strong correlation (r > 0.7) between the HCA content of the grilled chicken breast and the L* and a* values indicating the significance of brightness and the red parameter of the color scale, respectively. In the case of open grilling, the skinless breast samples showed correlation (r > 0.7) between the HCA content and the color analysis results in both the full sample and the crust, respectively. Breast samples with skin exhibited the same level of correlation when they were grilled closed. In the case of open grilling the breast with skin, and closed-grilling the skinless breast, the linear regression analysis yielded a weaker correlation (0.7 > r > 0.4 or less) between the HCA concentrations and the color. Our results demonstrate that there is a predictive correlation between the color changes perceptible for the consumers and the HCA formation during grilling of chicken breast as a function of time and temperature depending on the type of grilling and the presence of skin.
Characterization of the Key Aroma Compounds in Traditional Hunan Smoke-Cured Pork Leg (Larou, THSL) by Aroma Extract Dilution Analysis (AEDA), Odor Activity Value (OAV), and Sensory Evaluation Experiments
Authors: Pu Dandan , Zhang Yuyu , Zhang Huiying , Sun Baoguo , Ren Fazheng , Chen Haitao , Tang Yizhuang
Published: April 2020

The key aroma compounds in smoke-cured pork leg were characterized by gas chromatography–olfactometry coupled with aroma extract dilution analysis (GC–O/AEDA), odor activity value (OAV), recombination modeling, and omission tests. Ranking analysis showed that pork leg smoke-cured for 18 days had the best sensory qualities, with strong meaty, smoky, roasty, woody, and greasy attributes. Thirty-nine aroma-active regions with flavor dilution (FD) factors ranging from 9 to 6561 were detected. Overall, 3-ethylphenol had the highest FD factor of 6561, followed by 2,6-dimethoxyphenol, 3,4-dimethylphenol, 4-ethylguaiacol, 4-methylguaiacol, 3-methylphenol, and 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, with FD ≥243. Among 39 aroma compounds, 27 compounds with OAVs ≥1 and were potent odorants. A similarity of 90.73% between the recombination model and traditional Hunan Smoke-cured Pork Leg (THSL) sample was obtained. Omission tests further confirmed that (E)-2-nonenal, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, guaiacol, 3-ethylphenol, 2,6-dimethylphenol, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, and methional were key odorants in smoke-cured pork leg. Additionally, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (38.88 μg/kg), which contributes to a roasty aroma, was characterized here as a key odorant of smoke-cured pork leg for the first time.
Cooking Effect on the Bioactive Compounds, Texture, and Color Properties of Cold-Extruded Rice/Bean-Based Pasta Supplemented with Whole Carob Fruit
Authors: Arribas Claudia , Cabellos Blanca , Cuadrado Carmen , Guillamón Eva , Pedrosa Mercedes M.
Published: April 2020

Pasta is considered as the ideal vehicle for fortification; thus, different formulations of gluten-free pasta have been developed (rice 0–100%, bean 0–100%, and carob fruit 0% or 10%). In this article, the content of individual inositol phosphates, soluble sugars and α-galactosides, protease inhibitors, lectin, phenolic composition, color, and texture were determined in uncooked and cooked pasta. The highest total inositol phosphates and protease inhibitors contents were found in the samples with a higher bean percentage. After cooking, the content of total inositol phosphates ranged from 2.12 to 7.97 mg/g (phytic acid or inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) was the major isoform found); the protease inhibitor activities showed values up to 12.12 trypsin inhibitor (TIU)/mg and 16.62 chymotrypsin inhibitor (CIU)/mg, whereas the competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed the elimination of lectins. Considering the different α-galactosides analyzed, their content was reduced up to 70% (p < 0.05) by the cooking process. The total phenols content was reduced around 17–48% after cooking. The cooked samples fortified with 10% carob fruit resulted in darker fettuccine with good firmness and hardness and higher antioxidant activity, sucrose, and total phenols content than the corresponding counterparts without this flour. All of the experimental fettuccine can be considered as functional and healthy pasta mainly due to their bioactive compound content, compared to the commercial rice pasta.
Simultaneous Magmatic and Hydrothermal Regimes in Alta–Little Cottonwood Stocks, Utah, USA, Recorded Using Multiphase U-Pb Petrochronology
Authors: Stearns Michael A. , Bartley John M. , Bowman John R. , Forster Clayton W. , Beno Carl J. , Riddle Daniel D. , Callis Samuel J. , Udy Nicholas D.
Published: April 2020

Magmatic and hydrothermal systems are intimately linked, significantly overlapping through time but persisting in different parts of a system. New preliminary U-Pb and trace element petrochronology from zircon and titanite demonstrate the protracted and episodic record of magmatic and hydrothermal processes in the Alta stock–Little Cottonwood stock plutonic and volcanic system. This system spans the upper ~11.5 km of the crust and includes a large composite pluton (e.g., Little Cottonwood stock), dike-like conduit (e.g., Alta stock), and surficial volcanic edifices (East Traverse and Park City volcanic units). A temperature–time path for the system was constructed using U-Pb and tetravalent cation thermometry to establish a record of >10 Myr of pluton emplacement, magma transport, volcanic eruption, and coeval hydrothermal circulation. Zircons from the Alta and Little Cottonwood stocks recorded a single population of apparent temperatures of ~625 ± 35 °C, while titanite apparent temperatures formed two distinct populations interpreted as magmatic (~725 ± 50 °C) and hydrothermal (~575 ± 50 °C). The spatial and temporal variations required episodic magma input, which overlapped in time with hydrothermal fluid flow in the structurally higher portions of the system. The hydrothermal system was itself episodic and migrated within the margin of the Alta stock and its aureole through time, and eventually focused at the contact of the Alta stock. First-order estimates of magma flux in this system suggest that the volcanic flux was 2–5× higher than the intrusive magma accumulation rate throughout its lifespan, consistent with intrusive volcanic systems around the world.
Perceptions of Harmfulness of Heated Tobacco Products Compared to Combustible Cigarettes among Adult Smokers in Japan: Findings from the 2018 ITC Japan Survey
Authors: Gravely Shannon , Fong Geoffrey T. , Sutanto Edward , Loewen Ruth , Ouimet Janine , Xu Steve S. , Quah Anne C. K. , Thompson Mary E. , Boudreau Christian , Li Grace , Goniewicz Maciej L. , Yoshimi Itsuro , Mochizuki Yumiko , Elton-Marshall Tara , Thrasher James F. , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: April 2020

In Japan, the tobacco industry promotes heated tobacco products (HTPs) as a reduced-risk tobacco product. This study examines: (1) smokers’ harm perceptions of HTPs relative to combustible cigarettes; (2) differences in relative harm perceptions between exclusive smokers and smokers who use HTPs (concurrent users) and between concurrent users based on frequency of product use; and (3) if smokers who were exposed to HTP advertising hold beliefs that are consistent with marketing messages of lower harmfulness. This cross-sectional study included 2614 adult exclusive cigarette smokers and 986 concurrent users who reported their perceptions of harmfulness of HTPs compared to cigarettes, as well as their exposure to HTP advertising in the last six months. Among all smokers, 47.5% perceive that HTPs are less harmful than cigarettes, 24.6% perceive HTPs to be equally as harmful, 1.8% perceive HTPs as more harmful, and 26.1% did not know. Concurrent users are more likely than exclusive smokers to believe that HTPs are less harmful (62.1% versus 43.8%, p < 0.0001) and less likely to report that they did not know (14.3% versus 29.4%, p < 0.0001). Frequent HTP users are more likely than infrequent users to believe that HTPs are less harmful (71.7% versus 57.1%, p ≤ 0.001). Believing that HTPs are less harmful than cigarettes was associated with noticing HTP advertising on TV (p = 0.0005), in newspapers/magazines (p = 0.0001), on posters/billboards (p < 0.0001), in stores where tobacco (p < 0.0001) or where HTPs (p < 0.0001) are sold, on social media (p < 0.0001), or in bars/pubs (p = 0.04). HTP users were significantly more likely than non-HTP users to believe that HTPs are less harmful than cigarettes, with this belief being more prominent among frequent users. Smokers who have been exposed to HTP advertising were more likely to perceive HTPs as less harmful than cigarettes.
Physical Fitness and Self-Rated Health in Children and Adolescents: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Study
Authors: Padilla-Moledo Carmen , Fernández-Santos Jorge DR , Izquierdo-Gómez Rocio , Esteban-Cornejo Irene , Rio-Cozar Paula , Carbonell-Baeza Ana , Castro-Piñero Jose
Published: April 2020

Self-rated health (SRH) is an independent determinant for all-cause mortality. We aimed to examine the independent and combined associations of components of physical fitness with SRH at baseline (cross-sectional) and two years later (longitudinal) in children and adolescents. Spanish youth (N = 1378) aged 8 to 17.9 years participated at baseline. The dropout rate at 2-year follow-up was 19.5% (n = 270). Participants were categorized as either children (8 to 11.9 years age) or adolescents (12 to 17.9 years age). The ALPHA health- related fitness test battery for youth was used to assess physical fitness, and SRH was measured by a single-item question. Cumulative link, ANOVA and ANCOVA models were fitted to analyze the data. Cardiorespiratory fitness, relative upper body isometric muscular strength, muscular strength score, and global physical fitness were positively associated with SRH in children (OR, 1.048; 95% CI, 1.020–1.076; OR, 18.921; 95% CI, 3.47–104.355; OR, 1.213; 95% CI, 1.117–1.319, and OR, 1.170; 95% CI, 1.081–1.266, respectively; all p < 0.001) and adolescents (OR, 1.057; 95% CI, 1.037–1.076; OR, 5.707; 95% CI, 1.122–29.205; OR, 1.169; 95% CI, 1.070–1.278, and OR, 1.154 95% CI, 1.100–1.210, respectively; all p < 0.001); and motor fitness was positively associated with SRH only in adolescents at baseline (OR, 1.192; 95% CI, 1.066–1.309; p < 0.01). Cardiorespiratory fitness and global physical fitness were positively associated with SRH in children two years later (OR, 1.056; 95% CI, 1.023–1.091; p < 0.001; and OR, 1.082; 95% CI, 1.031–1.136; p < 0.01; respectively). Only cardiorespiratory fitness was independently associated with SRH in children and adolescents at baseline (OR, 1.059; 95% CI, 1.029–1.090; and OR, 1.073; 95% CI, 1.050–1.097, respectively; both p < 0.001) and two years later (OR, 1.075; 95% CI, 1.040–1.112; p < 0.001; and OR, 1.043; 95% CI, 1.014–1.074; p < 0.01, respectively). A high level of cardiorespiratory fitness at baseline or maintaining high levels of cardiorespiratory fitness from the baseline to 2-year follow-up were associated with a higher level of SRH at 2-year follow-up in children (p < 0.01) and adolescents (p < 0.05). These findings emphasize the importance of cardiorespiratory fitness as strong predictor of present and future SRH in youth. Intervention programs to enhance cardiorespiratory fitness level of the youth population are urgently needed for present and future youth’s health.
The Direct and Indirect Effects of Online Social Support, Neuroticism, and Web Content Internalization on the Drive for Thinness among Women Visiting Health-Oriented Websites
Authors: Kvardova Nikol , Machackova Hana , Smahel David
Published: April 2020

One of the debates about media usage is the potential harmful effect that it has on body image and related eating disturbances because of its representations of the “ideal body”. This study focuses on the drive for thinness among the visitors of various health-oriented websites and online platforms because neither has yet been sufficiently studied in this context. Specifically, this study aims to bring more insight to the risk factors which can increase the drive for thinness in the users of these websites. We tested the presumption that web content internalization is a key factor in this process, and we considered the effects of selected individual factors, specifically the perceived online social support and neuroticism. We utilized survey data from 445 Czech women (aged 18–29, M = 23.5, SD = 3.1) who visited nutrition, weight loss, and exercise websites. The results showed a positive indirect link between both perceived online social support and neuroticism to the drive for thinness via web content internalization. The results are discussed with regard to the dual role of online support as both risk and protective factor. Moreover, we consider the practical implications for eating behavior and weight-related problems with regard to prevention and intervention.
Impact of the Severities of Glaucoma on the Incidence of Subsequent Dementia: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Kuo Fu-Hsuan , Chung Jui-Fu , Hsu Min-Yen , Lee Chia-Yi , Huang Jing-Yang , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: April 2020

The aim of the present study was to survey the relationship between the severity of glaucoma and subsequent dementia using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan. Subjects with glaucoma were selected into the study group after an exclusion process, and each subject in the study group was propensity score-matched to another non-glaucoma patient that constituted the control group. The Cox proportional hazard regression that considered multiple potential risk factors of dementia was used to yield the adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) of dementia in different severities of glaucoma. There were 1185 (5.63 percent) subjects in the study group and 1119 (5.32 percent) patients in the control group that developed dementia. After adjusting for multiple confounders, there were no differences in the rate of any dementia (aHR: 0.961, 95% CI: 0.886–1.043, p = 0.3443), vascular dementia (aHR: 0.928, 95% CI: 0.846–1.018, p = 0.1154), Alzheimer’s disease (aHR: 1.018, 95% CI: 0.761–1.362, p = 0.9025) or Parkinson’s disease (aHR: 1.021, 95% CI: 0.886–1.176, p = 0.7744) between the study and the control groups. Regarding the disease severity of glaucoma, no difference was found in any type of dementia whether the glaucoma patients received less than two medical treatments, received more than two medical treatments, received drainage surgeries or received destructive surgeries. In conclusion, the different severities of glaucoma do not alter the incidence of subsequent dementia.
Consumers’ Attitudes Facing Entomophagy: Polish Case Perspectives
Authors: Orkusz Agnieszka , Wolańska Wioletta , Harasym Joanna , Piwowar Arkadiusz , Kapelko Magdalena
Published: April 2020

Based on high nutritional value and low production costs, edible insects are an excellent and sustainable source of animal proteins. However, completely replacing meat with edible insects requires a change in consumer mentality not only in Poland, but also in other European countries. In western countries, most people reject eating insects, mainly for cultural reasons. Concerning this, the objective of the study was to examine the knowledge, behavior, and attitudes of the Polish community about edible insects and to understand the main factors driving edible insect consumption. The study was held at the Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, Poland and consisted of two parts: The survey (among 464 students) and the tasting session (among 402 participants). The main findings suggest that there is low willingness to adopt edible insects as a meat substitute among Polish students due to the psychological barriers, such as neophobia and disgust. However, the willingness to eat processed insect food (bread, biscuit) is far higher than for unprocessed whole insects. Environmental benefits are the factors that least affected students’ willingness to try edible insects. Additionally, the tasting session of the bread with powdered insects was attended by the vast majority of participants, which indicates that a positive sensory experience can improve the acceptability of insects as food.
Effectiveness of Respite Care via Short-Stay Services to Support Sleep in Family Caregivers
Authors: Sakurai Shihomi , Kohno Yumiko
Published: April 2020

Family caregivers of older people who need care often experience sleep disorders, which can lead to various health problems. Although respite care is used in many countries, its effectiveness has not been fully demonstrated. We analyzed the sleep of family caregivers using actigraphy and heart rate spectral analysis to clarify changes in their sleep characteristics during short-stay respite care. Participants were all family caregivers living with an older person needing long-term care. The outcomes consisted of questionnaire responses, sleep/wake records, and R-wave to R-wave interval records. Quantitative evaluation of sleep revealed that caregivers’ median sleep time was 378.0 min, and median sleep efficiency was 94.7%. The low frequency (LF)/high frequency (HF) value was 1.722 for total sleep and 1.822 for the first half of the sleep period. The LF/HF for the first half of the sleep period was significantly different between caregiving and respite days. The respite day LF/HF was 1.567, which was significantly lower than on caregiving days. On respite days, cardiac sympathetic nervous activity among family caregivers was reduced during the first half of the sleep period. This suggests that regular use of short-stay services can improve caregivers’ sleep status, making this an effective form of respite care.
Role of Chitin Deacetylase 1 in the Molting and Metamorphosis of the Cigarette Beetle Lasioderma serricorne
Authors: Yang Wen-Jia , Xu Kang-Kang , Yan Yi , Li Can , Jin Dao-Chao
Published: April 2020

Chitin deacetylases (CDAs) are chitin-modifying enzymes known to play vital roles in insect metamorphosis and development. In this study, we identified and characterized a chitin deacetylase 1 gene (LsCDA1) from the cigarette beetle Lasioderma serricorne. LsCDA1 contains a 1614 bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 537 amino acids that includes domain structures typical of CDAs. LsCDA1 was mainly expressed in the late larval and late pupal stages. In larval tissues, the highest level of LsCDA1 was detected in the integument. The expression of LsCDA1 was induced by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) in vivo, and it was significantly suppressed by knocking down the expression of ecdysteroidogenesis genes and 20E signaling genes. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided silencing of LsCDA1 in fifth-instar larvae prevented the larval–pupal molt and caused 75% larval mortality. In the late pupal stage, depletion of LsCDA1 resulted in the inhibition of pupal growth and wing abnormalities, and the expression levels of four wing development-related genes (LsDY, LsWG, LsVG, and LsAP) were dramatically decreased. Meanwhile, the chitin contents of LsCDA1 RNAi beetles were significantly reduced, and expressions of three chitin synthesis pathway genes (LsTRE1, LsUAP1, and LsCHS1) were greatly decreased. The results suggest that LsCDA1 is indispensable for larval–pupal and pupal–adult molts, and that it is a potential target for the RNAi-based control of L. serricorne.
Tumor Milieu Controlled by RB Tumor Suppressor
Authors: Kitajima Shunsuke , Li Fengkai , Takahashi Chiaki
Published: April 2020

The RB gene is one of the most frequently mutated genes in human cancers. Canonically, RB exerts its tumor suppressive activity through the regulation of the G1/S transition during cell cycle progression by modulating the activity of E2F transcription factors. However, aberration of the RB gene is most commonly detected in tumors when they gain more aggressive phenotypes, including metastatic activity or drug resistance, rather than accelerated proliferation. This implicates RB controls’ malignant progression to a considerable extent in a cell cycle-independent manner. In this review, we highlight the multifaceted functions of the RB protein in controlling tumor lineage plasticity, metabolism, and the tumor microenvironment (TME), with a focus on the mechanism whereby RB controls the TME. In brief, RB inactivation in several types of cancer cells enhances production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including CCL2, through upregulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These factors not only accelerate the growth of cancer cells in a cell-autonomous manner, but also stimulate non-malignant cells in the TME to generate a pro-tumorigenic niche in a non-cell-autonomous manner. Here, we discuss the biological and pathological significance of the non-cell-autonomous functions of RB and attempt to predict their potential clinical relevance to cancer immunotherapy.
Silver Island Film for Enhancing Light Harvesting in Natural Photosynthetic Proteins
Authors: Kowalska Dorota , Szalkowski Marcin , Sulowska Karolina , Buczynska Dorota , Niedziolka-Jonsson Joanna , Jonsson-Niedziolka Martin , Kargul Joanna , Lokstein Heiko , Mackowski Sebastian
Published: April 2020

The effects of combining naturally evolved photosynthetic pigment–protein complexes with inorganic functional materials, especially plasmonically active metallic nanostructures, have been a widely studied topic in the last few decades. Besides other applications, it seems to be reasonable using such hybrid systems for designing future biomimetic solar cells. In this paper, we describe selected results that point out to various aspects of the interactions between photosynthetic complexes and plasmonic excitations in Silver Island Films (SIFs). In addition to simple light-harvesting complexes, like peridinin-chlorophyll-protein (PCP) or the Fenna–Matthews–Olson (FMO) complex, we also discuss the properties of large, photosynthetic reaction centers (RCs) and Photosystem I (PSI)—both prokaryotic PSI core complexes and eukaryotic PSI supercomplexes with attached antenna clusters (PSI-LHCI)—deposited on SIF substrates.
Osmunda japonica Extract Suppresses Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines by Downregulating NF-κB Activation in Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts Infected with Oral Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Seong Jihyoun , Lee Jinkyung , Lim Yun Kyong , Yoon Weon-Jong , Jung Seunggon , Kook Joong-Ki , Lee Tae-Hoon
Published: April 2020

Periodontal diseases are caused by bacterial infection and may progress to chronic dental disease; severe inflammation may result in bone loss. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent bacterial infection or control inflammation. Periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) are responsible for the maintenance of tissue integrity and immune and inflammatory events in periodontal diseases. The formation of bacterial complexes by Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis is crucial in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. F. nucleatum is a facultative anaerobic species, considered to be a key mediator of dental plaque maturation and aggregation of other oral bacteria. P. gingivalis is an obligate anaerobic species that induces gingival inflammation by secreting virulence factors. In this study, we investigated whether Osmunda japonica extract exerted anti-inflammatory effects in primary PDLFs stimulated by oral pathogens. PDLFs were stimulated with F. nucleatum or P. gingivalis. We showed that pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6 and IL-8) expression was induced by LPS or bacterial infection but decreased by treatment with O. japonica extract following bacterial infection. We found that the activation of NF-κB, a transcription factor for pro-inflammatory cytokines, was modulated by O. japonica extract. Thus, O. japonica extract has immunomodulatory activity that can be harnessed to control inflammation.
Shape Anisotropic Iron Oxide-Based Magnetic Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Andrade Raquel G. D. , Veloso Sérgio R. S. , Castanheira Elisabete M. S.
Published: April 2020

Research on iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles and their clinical use has been, so far, mainly focused on the spherical shape. However, efforts have been made to develop synthetic routes that produce different anisotropic shapes not only in magnetite nanoparticles, but also in other ferrites, as their magnetic behavior and biological activity can be improved by controlling the shape. Ferrite nanoparticles show several properties that arise from finite-size and surface effects, like high magnetization and superparamagnetism, which make them interesting for use in nanomedicine. Herein, we show recent developments on the synthesis of anisotropic ferrite nanoparticles and the importance of shape-dependent properties for biomedical applications, such as magnetic drug delivery, magnetic hyperthermia and magnetic resonance imaging. A brief discussion on toxicity of iron oxide nanoparticles is also included.
Arf6 Can Trigger Wave Regulatory Complex-Dependent Actin Assembly Independent of Arno
Authors: Singh Vikash , Davidson Anthony C. , Hume Peter J. , Koronakis Vassilis
Published: April 2020

The small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6) anchors at the plasma membrane to orchestrate key functions, such as membrane trafficking and regulating cortical actin cytoskeleton rearrangement. A number of studies have identified key players that interact with Arf6 to regulate actin dynamics in diverse cell processes, yet it is still unknown whether Arf6 can directly signal to the wave regulatory complex to mediate actin assembly. By reconstituting actin dynamics on supported lipid bilayers, we found that Arf6 in co-ordination with Rac1(Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1) can directly trigger actin polymerization by recruiting wave regulatory complex components. Interestingly, we demonstrated that Arf6 triggers actin assembly at the membrane directly without recruiting the Arf guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) ARNO (ARF nucleotide-binding site opener), which is able to activate Arf1 to enable WRC-dependent actin assembly. Furthermore, using labelled E. coli, we demonstrated that actin assembly by Arf6 also contributes towards efficient phagocytosis in THP-1 macrophages. Taken together, this study reveals a mechanism for Arf6-driven actin polymerization.
Effect of Ferulic Acid, a Phenolic Inducer of Fungal Laccase, on 26S Proteasome Activities In Vitro
Authors: Swatek Anita , Staszczak Magdalena
Published: April 2020

The 26S proteasome is an ATP-dependent protease complex (2.5 MDa) that degrades most cellular proteins in Eukaryotes, typically those modified by a polyubiquitin chain. The proteasome-mediated proteolysis regulates a variety of critical cellular processes such as transcriptional control, cell cycle, oncogenesis, apoptosis, protein quality control, and stress response. Previous studies conducted in our laboratory have shown that 26S proteasomes are involved in the regulation of ligninolytic enzymes (such as laccase) in white-rot fungi in response to nutrient starvation, cadmium exposure, and ER stress. Laccases are useful biocatalysts for a wide range of biotechnological applications. The goal of the current study was to determine the effect of ferulic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid), a phenolic compound known to induce some ligninolytic enzymes, on proteasomes isolated from mycelia of the wood-decomposing basidiomycete Trametes versicolor. The peptidase activities of 26S proteasomes were assayed by measuring the hydrolysis of fluorogenic peptide substrates specific for each active site: Suc-LLVY-AMC, Z-GGR-AMC and Z-LLE-AMC for chymotrypsin-like, trypsin-like, and caspase-like site, respectively. Ferulic acid affected all peptidase activities of the 26S fungal proteasomes in a concentration-dependent manner. A possible inhibitory effect of ferulic acid on peptidase activities of the 26S human proteasomes was tested as well. Moreover, the ability of ferulic acid to inhibit (at concentrations known to induce laccase activity in white-rot fungi) the rate of 26S proteasome-catalyzed degradation of a model full-length protein substrate (β-casein) was demonstrated by a fluorescamine assay and by a gel-electrophoretic analysis. Our findings provide new insights into the role of ferulic acid in lignin-degrading fungi. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated by future studies.
Historical Perspective: Models of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Chia Shyh Jenn , Tan Eng-King , Chao Yin-Xia
Published: April 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most common movement disorder with motor and nonmotor signs. The current therapeutic regimen for PD is mainly symptomatic as the etio-pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. A variety of animal models has been generated to study different aspects of the disease for understanding the pathogenesis and therapeutic development. The disease model can be generated through neurotoxin-based or genetic-based approaches in a wide range of animals such as non-human primates (NHP), rodents, zebrafish, Caenorhabditis (C.) elegans, and drosophila. Cellular-based disease model is frequently used because of the ease of manipulation and suitability for large-screen assays. In neurotoxin-induced models, chemicals such as 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), rotenone, and paraquat are used to recapitulate the disease. Genetic manipulation of PD-related genes, such as α-Synuclein(SNCA), Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), Pten-Induced Kinase 1 (PINK1), Parkin(PRKN), and Protein deglycase (DJ-1) Are used in the transgenic models. An emerging model that combines both genetic- and neurotoxin-based methods has been generated to study the role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of PD. Here, we discuss the advantages and limitations of the different PD models and their utility for different research purposes.
The Aquaporin-3-Inhibiting Potential of Polyoxotungstates
Authors: Pimpão Catarina , da Silva Inês V. , Mósca Andreia F. , Pinho Jacinta O. , Gaspar Maria Manuela , Gumerova Nadiia I. , Rompel Annette , Aureliano Manuel , Soveral Graça
Published: April 2020

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are of increasing interest due to their proven anticancer activities. Aquaporins (AQPs) were found to be overexpressed in tumors bringing particular attention to their inhibitors as anticancer drugs. Herein, we report for the first time the ability of polyoxotungstates (POTs), such as of Wells–Dawson P2W18, P2W12, and P2W15, and Preyssler P5W30 structures, to affect aquaporin-3 (AQP3) activity and impair melanoma cell migration. The tested POTs were revealed to inhibit AQP3 function with different effects, with P2W18, P2W12, and P5W30 being the most potent (50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) = 0.8, 2.8, and 3.2 µM), and P2W15 being the weakest (IC50 > 100 µM). The selectivity of P2W18 toward AQP3 was confirmed in yeast cells transformed with human aquaglyceroporins. The effect of P2W12 and P2W18 on melanoma cells that highly express AQP3 revealed an impairment of cell migration between 55% and 65% after 24 h, indicating that the anticancer properties of these compounds may in part be due to the blockage of AQP3-mediated permeability. Altogether, our data revealed that P2W18 strongly affects AQP3 activity and cancer cell growth, unveiling its potential as an anticancer drug against tumors where AQP3 is highly expressed.
Neuroimaging Findings in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Correlation with Neurocognitive and Neuropsychiatric Manifestations
Authors: Tagliapietra Matteo , Monaco Salvatore
Published: April 2020

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is commonly associated with neurocognitive dysfunction, altered neuropsychological performance and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Quantifiable neuropsychological changes in sustained attention, working memory, executive function, verbal learning and recall are the hallmark of HCV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HCV-AND). This constellation is at variance with the neuropsychological complex that is seen in minimal hepatic encephalopathy, which is typified by an array of alterations in psychomotor speed, selective attention and visuo-constructive function. Noncognitive symptoms, including sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety and fatigue, which are less easily quantifiable, are frequently encountered and can dominate the clinical picture and the clinical course of patients with chronic HCV infection. More recently, an increased vulnerability to Parkinson’s disease among HCV-infected patients has also been reported. The degree to which neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric changes are due to HCV replication within brain tissues or HCV-triggered peripheral immune activation remain to be determined. Without absolute evidence that clearly exonerates or indicts HCV, our understanding of the so-called “HCV brain syndrome”, relies primarily on clinical and neuropsychological assessments, although other comorbidities and substance abuse may impact on neurocognitive function, thus confounding an appropriate recognition. In recent years, a number of functional and structural brain imaging studies have been of help in recognizing possible biological markers of HCV-AND, thus providing a rationale for guiding and justifying antiviral therapy in selected cases. Here, we review clinical, neuroradiological, and therapeutic responses to interferon-based and interferon-free regimens in HCV-related cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorder.