bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Hospital-Treated Self-Harm
Authors: Cleare Seonaid , Wetherall Karen , Clark Andrea , Ryan Caoimhe , Kirtley Olivia , Smith Michael , O’Connor Rory
Published: June 2018

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been implicated in a range of negative health outcomes in adulthood, including increased suicide mortality. In this study, we explored the relationship between ACEs and hospital-treated self-harm. Specifically, we investigated whether those who had a history of repeat self-harm reported more ACEs than those who had self-harmed for the first time. Patients (n = 189) admitted to two hospitals in Glasgow (UK) following first-time (n = 41) or repeated (n = 148) self-harm completed psychosocial measures. Univariate analyses revealed that those presenting with repeat self-harm reported higher depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, intent to die, and ACEs, and lower dependent attachment style. However, only ACEs, along with female gender and depressive symptoms, significantly differentiated between the repeat self-harm group and the first-time self-harm group in the multivariate model. Controlling for all other psychosocial variables, participants who reported 4+ ACEs were significantly more likely to be in the repeat self-harm group as compared to those who experienced 0–3 ACEs. This finding highlights the pernicious effect of exposure to multiple ACEs. Further research is urgently required to better understand the mechanisms that explain this relationship. Clinicians should be aware of the extent of the association between ACEs and repeat self-harm.
Blooming of Unusual Cytochrome P450s by Tandem Duplication in the Pathogenic Fungus Conidiobolus coronatus
Authors: Ngwenya Mathula Lancelot , Chen Wanping , Basson Albert Kotze , Shandu Jabulani Siyabonga , Yu Jae-Hyuk , Nelson David R. , Syed Khajamohiddin
Published: June 2018

While the Zygomycete fungus Conidiobolus coronatus primarily infects insects, it can be pathogenic to mammals as well, including humans. High variability in the treatment of this fungal infection with currently available drugs, including azole drugs is a very common phenomenon. Azoles bind to the cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s/CYP) including CYP51, a sterol 14-α-demethylase, inhibiting the synthesis of cell membrane ergosterol and thus leading to the elimination of infecting fungi. Despite P450’s role as a drug target, to date, no information on C. coronatus P450s has been reported. Genome-wide data mining has revealed the presence of 142 P450s grouped into 12 families and 21 subfamilies in C. coronatus. Except for CYP51, the remaining 11 P450 families are new (CYP5854-CYP5864). Despite having a large number of P450s among entomopathogenic fungi, C. coronatus has the lowest number of P450 families, which suggests blooming P450s. Further analysis has revealed that 79% of the same family P450s is tandemly positioned, suggesting that P450 tandem duplication led to the blooming of P450s. The results of this study; i.e., unravelling the C. coronatus P450 content, will certainly help in designing experiments to understand P450s’ role in C. coronatus physiology, including a highly variable response to azole drugs with respect to P450s.
Responsiveness of Carnosine Homeostasis Genes in the Pancreas and Brain of Streptozotocin-Treated Mice Exposed to Dietary Carnosine
Authors: Barca Amilcare , Gatti Francesca , Spagnolo Daniela , Ippati Stefania , Vetrugno Carla , Verri Tiziano
Published: June 2018

In excitable tissues, the endogenous dipeptide carnosine (CAR, β-Ala-l-His) sustains homeostatic responses to various challenges. By eliciting hypoglycemic effects via actions on the autonomic nervous system and protection of pancreatic beta-cells, CAR is also relevant in diabetes. We investigated the expression of genes involved in CAR biosynthesis, degradation, and membrane transport pathways, in the pancreas and brains of mice treated with streptozotocin (STZ) and then exposed to dietary CAR. We induced hyperglycemia by STZ intraperitoneal injections; then, STZ-treated mice received drinking water with or without CAR for two weeks. We report that CAR administration elicits beneficial effects on blood glucose levels and weight loss in STZ-treated mice and, remarkably, on the insulin gene products in the pancreas, preserving gene expression from STZ challenge. Also, we describe mRNA downregulation of the Slc15a2/Pept2 (dipeptide transporter) and Cndp2 (intracellular dipeptidase) genes in the pancreas of hyperglycemic mice, and dysregulation of Carns1 (CAR synthase), Pept2 and Cndp2 in brains; interestingly, dietary CAR elicits counteracting effects. These expression patterns associate with variations of CAR content in tissues of mice. Overall, our report suggests a direct role of CAR in the diabetes-affected pancreas and in the diabetes-targeted CNS, proposing (dys)regulation of CAR’s homeostasis as a marker condition.
The Role of Curcumin in Prevention and Management of Metastatic Disease
Authors: Bachmeier Beatrice E. , Killian Peter H. , Melchart Dieter
Published: June 2018

In the last two decades, targeted therapies have enhanced tumor patient care and treatment success, however, metastatic growth still cannot be stopped efficiently and, therefore, mortality rates remain high. Prevention strategies against formation of metastases are the most promising approach we have, however, due to lack of clinical validation studies, they have not yet entered routine clinical care. In order to smooth the way for efficient prevention, further preclinical and large clinical studies are required. In this context, the underlying molecular mechanisms and factors that lead to metastatic growth have to be explored, and potential preventive agents have to be tested. Thereby, special attention has to be paid to natural bioactive compounds which do not exert major adverse effects, like the plant-derived polyphenol Curcumin, which is known to be a powerful antitumor agent. So far, most of the preclinical studies with Curcumin have focused on its effect on inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and invasion, although, it is known that it also inhibits metastatic spread in vivo. This review discusses the preventive potential of this natural compound not only against tumor onset, but also against formation of metastases.
Protein Polymer-Based Nanoparticles: Fabrication and Medical Applications
Authors: DeFrates Kelsey , Markiewicz Theodore , Gallo Pamela , Rack Aaron , Weyhmiller Aubrie , Jarmusik Brandon , Hu Xiao
Published: June 2018

Nanoparticles are particles that range in size from about 1–1000 nanometers in diameter, about one thousand times smaller than the average cell in a human body. Their small size, flexible fabrication, and high surface-area-to-volume ratio make them ideal systems for drug delivery. Nanoparticles can be made from a variety of materials including metals, polysaccharides, and proteins. Biological protein-based nanoparticles such as silk, keratin, collagen, elastin, corn zein, and soy protein-based nanoparticles are advantageous in having biodegradability, bioavailability, and relatively low cost. Many protein nanoparticles are easy to process and can be modified to achieve desired specifications such as size, morphology, and weight. Protein nanoparticles are used in a variety of settings and are replacing many materials that are not biocompatible and have a negative impact on the environment. Here we attempt to review the literature pertaining to protein-based nanoparticles with a focus on their application in drug delivery and biomedical fields. Additional detail on governing nanoparticle parameters, specific protein nanoparticle applications, and fabrication methods are also provided.
Potential Clinical Application of Genomics in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Soekojo Cinnie Yentia , De Mel Sanjay , Ooi Melissa , Yan Benedict , Chng Wee Joo
Published: June 2018

Multiple myeloma is a heterogeneous disease with different characteristics, and genetic aberrations play important roles in this heterogeneity. Studies have shown that these genetic aberrations are crucial in prognostication and response assessment; recent efforts have focused on their possible therapeutic implications. Despite many emerging studies being published, the best way to incorporate these results into clinical practice remains unclear. In this review paper we describe the different genomic techniques available, including the latest advancements, and discuss the potential clinical application of genomics in multiple myeloma.
Analysis of Solid Waste Management Logistics and Its Attendant Challenges in Lagos Metropolis
Authors: Ayantoyinbo Boye Benedict , Adepoju Olusegun Onifade
Published: June 2018

This study examined the relationship between waste management logistics and identified metrics for waste management logistics performance. Secondly, the study assessed the various challenges inhibiting the performance of LAWMA in the State. Random table sampling and purposive sampling were used to select 47 waste collection centres with 10 questionnaires distributed per centre (470 in total) across the 20 Local Government Areas (LGA) in Lagos State. However, only 339 questionnaires were retrieved from the sampled population. Multiple regression analysis was used to predict the relationship between waste management logistics and identified metrics for waste logistics performance. Descriptive statistics was used to explain the challenges of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). The results established that the volume of solid waste and commitment of staff are crucial to waste management logistics and one factor that strongly affects waste logistics is traffic in the metropolis. Conclusively, waste collection turnaround must be increased and government and private investors should provide enabling infrastructure and trained personnel for effective solid waste management in Lagos metropolis.
Influence of Water Solute Exposure on the Chemical Evolution and Rheological Properties of Asphalt
Authors: Pang Ling , Zhang Xuemei , Wu Shaopeng , Ye Yong , Li Yuanyuan
Published: June 2018

The properties of asphalt pavement are damaged under the effects of moisture. The pH value and salt concentration of water are the key factors that affect the chemical and rheological properties of asphalt during moisture damage. Four kinds of water solutions, including distilled water, an acidic solution, alkaline solution and saline solution were used to investigate the effects of aqueous solute compositions on the chemical and rheological properties of asphalt. Thin-layer chromatography with flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) were applied to investigate the components, chemistry and rheology characteristics of asphalt specimens before and after water solute exposure. The experimental results show that moisture damage of asphalt is not only associated with an oxidation process between asphalt with oxygen, but it is also highly dependent on some compounds of asphalt dissolving and being removed in the water solutions. In detail, after immersion in water solute, the fraction of saturates, aromatics and resins in asphalt binders decreased, while asphaltenes increased; an increase in the carbonyl and sulphoxide indices, and a decrease in the butadiene index were also found from the FTIR analyzer test. The rheological properties of asphalt are sensitive to water solute immersing. The addition of aqueous solutes causes more serious moisture damage on asphalt binders, with the pH11 solution presenting as the most destructive during water solute exposure.
Convergence in Total Variation to a Mixture of Gaussian Laws
Authors: Pratelli Luca , Rigo Pietro
Published: June 2018

It is not unusual that Xn⟶distVZ where Xn, V, Z are real random variables, V is independent of Z and Z∼N(0,1). An intriguing feature is that PVZ∈A=EN(0,V2)(A) for each Borel set A⊂R, namely, the probability distribution of the limit VZ is a mixture of centered Gaussian laws with (random) variance V2. In this paper, conditions for dTV(Xn,VZ)→0 are given, where dTV(Xn,VZ) is the total variation distance between the probability distributions of Xn and VZ. To estimate the rate of convergence, a few upper bounds for dTV(Xn,VZ) are given as well. Special attention is paid to the following two cases: (i) Xn is a linear combination of the squares of Gaussian random variables; and (ii) Xn is related to the weighted quadratic variations of two independent Brownian motions.
Heteronemin, a Marine Sesterterpenoid-Type Metabolite, Induces Apoptosis in Prostate LNcap Cells via Oxidative and ER Stress Combined with the Inhibition of Topoisomerase II and Hsp90
Authors: Lee Man-Gang , Liu Yi-Chang , Lee Yi-Lun , El-Shazly Mohamed , Lai Kuei-Hung , Shih Shou-Ping , Ke Seng-Chung , Hong Ming-Chang , Du Ying-Chi , Yang Juan-Cheng , Sung Ping-Jyun , Wen Zhi-Hong , Lu Mei-Chin
Published: June 2018

Heteronemin, a marine sesterterpenoid-type natural product, possesses diverse bioactivities, especially antitumor effect. Accumulating evidence shows that heteronemin may act as a potent anticancer agent in clinical therapy. To fully understand the antitumor mechanism of heteronemin, we further explored the precise molecular targets in prostate cancer cells. Initially, heteronemin exhibited potent cytotoxic effect against LNcap and PC3 prostate cancer cells with IC50 1.4 and 2.7 μM after 24 h, respectively. In the xenograft animal model, the tumor size was significantly suppressed to about 51.9% in the heteronemin-treated group in comparison with the control group with no significant difference in the mice body weights. In addition, the results of a cell-free system assay indicated that heteronemin could act as topoisomerase II (topo II) catalytic inhibitor through the elimination of essential enzymatic activity of topoisomerase IIα expression. We found that the use of heteronemin-triggered apoptosis by 20.1–68.3%, caused disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by 66.9–99.1% and promoted calcium release by 1.8-, 2.0-, and 2.1-fold compared with the control group in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated by annexin-V/PI, rhodamine 123 and Fluo-3 staining assays, respectively. Moreover, our findings indicated that the pretreatment of LNcap cells with an inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPi) diminished growth inhibition, oxidative and Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress, as well as activation of Chop/Hsp70 induced by heteronemin, suggesting PTP activation plays a crucial rule in the cytotoxic activity of heteronemin. Using molecular docking analysis, heteronemin exhibited more binding affinity to the N-terminal ATP-binding pocket of Hsp90 protein than 17-AAG, a standard Hsp90 inhibitor. Finally, heteronemin promoted autophagy and apoptosis through the inhibition of Hsp 90 and topo II as well as PTP activation in prostate cancer cells. Taken together, these multiple targets present heteronemin as an interesting candidate for its future development as an antiprostatic agent.
The coagulation system changes in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Mongirdienė Aušra , Kuršvietienė Lolita , Kašauskas Artūras
Published: June 2018

Though heart failure can mainly be caused by systolic or diastolic dysfunction, the impairments of the neurohormonal, immune, and hemostatic systems are observed too. Therefore, it is not easy to determine etiology of the syndrome. Parameters that can be helpful to predict chronic heart failure, to evaluate its course and the risk of complications are still being searched. The aim of this article is to review the recent studies in order to find the links between the coagulation system and the development of chronic heart failure. Stress is a key factor for the development of most diseases including chronic heart failure too. Signals of emotional and physical stress via particular structures trigger an increase in concentrations of the following hormones: noradrenaline, renin, angiotensin II, aldosterone, vasopressin. It is proved that it causes the disorders of the coagulation system: an increase in the following factors of plasma coagulation (fibrinogen, VII, VIII, fibrinopeptide A, thrombinantithrombin complex), fibrinolysis (D-dimer), endothelium (interleukin 1, endothelin 1, vascular cell adhesion molecules, endothelial growth factor), platelet activity (von Willebrand factor, intercellular adhesion molecules, platelet factor 4, P-selectin, thromboxane A2, thromboglobulin, CD63P) and cytokines (tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 6) and decrease in E-selectin. The role of particular coagulation factors for the development of chronic heart failure has not been understood yet. Thus, it is necessary to carry out further studies.
QSAR Study on Antioxidant Tripeptides and the Antioxidant Activity of the Designed Tripeptides in Free Radical Systems
Authors: Chen Nan , Chen Ji , Yao Bo , Li Zhengguo
Published: June 2018

In this study, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models were determined based on 91 antioxidant tripeptides. We firstly adopted the stepwise regression (SWR) method for selecting key variables without autocorrelation and then utilized multiple linear regression (MLR), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and partial least square regression (PLS) to develop predictive QSAR models based on the screened variables. The results demonstrated that all the established models have good reliability (R2train > 0.86, Q2train > 0.70) and relatively good predictability (R2test > 0.88). The contribution of amino acid residues was calculated from the stepwise regression combined with multiple linear regression (SWR-MLR) method model that shows Trp, Tyr, or Cys at C-terminus is favorable for antioxidant activity of tripeptides. Nineteen antioxidant tripeptides were designed based on SWR-MLR models, and the antioxidant activity of these tripeptides were evaluated using three antioxidant assays in free radical systems (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity, trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay, and the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay). The experimental antioxidant activities of these tripeptides were higher than the calculated/predicted activity values of the QSAR models. The QSAR models established can be used to identify and screen novel antioxidant tripeptides with high activity.
Designing Green Plasticizers: Linear Alkyl Diol Dibenzoate Plasticizers and a Thermally Reversible Plasticizer
Authors: Erythropel Hanno C. , Börmann Aurélie , Nicell Jim A. , Leask Richard L. , Maric Milan
Published: June 2018

Several linear alkyl diol dibenzoate compounds, ranging from C3 to C6 in central diol length, were evaluated for their plasticizing effectiveness in blends with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). The results were compared to blends of PVC/di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), the most commonly used commercial plasticizer. DEHP has come under scrutiny, due to its suspected endocrine-disrupting behaviour, and the proposed diol dibenzoates have previously been shown to have the potential to be green, safe candidates for DEHP replacement. The thermal and mechanical properties of PVC/dibenzoate blends were determined, and include glass transition temperature (Tg), the elongation at break, maximum stress, apparent moduli, torsional modulus, and surface hardness. The C3, C5, and C6 dibenzoates performed as well as or better than DEHP, with the exception of torsional modulus, further supporting their use as green plasticizers. For blends with 1,4-butanediol dibenzoate, differential scanning calorimetry and torsional temperature sweeps suggested that the compound partly crystallizes within PVC blends over the course of two days, thereby losing the ability to effectively plasticize PVC. However, upon heating to temperatures above 60 °C, effective plasticization was again observed. 1,4-Butanediol dibenzoate is thereby a reversible heat-activated plasticizer or processing aid with excellent plasticizer properties at mildly elevated temperatures.
Fabrication of Highly Packed Plasmonic Nanolens Array Using Polymer Nanoimprinted Nanodots for an Enhanced Fluorescence Substrate
Authors: Badshah Mohsin Ali , Kim Jun , Jang Hoyoung , Kim Seok-min
Published: June 2018

A simple and cost-effective fabrication method for plasmonic nanolens arrays (PNA) with a narrow gap has been proposed for fabricating enhanced fluorescence substrates, in which the fluorophores interacting with the enhanced electromagnetic field generated by localized surface plasmons provide a higher fluorescence signal. The PNA was fabricated by the sequential depositions of the SiO2 and Ag layers on a UV-nanoimprinted nanodot array with a pitch of 500 nm, a diameter of 250 nm, and a height of 100 nm. During the deposition processes, the shape of the nanodots changed to that of nanolenses, and the gap between the nanolenses was decreased via sidewall deposition. To examine the feasibility of the fabricated PNA for enhanced fluorescence application, a streptavidin-Cy5 (SA-Cy5) conjugate dissolved in a saline buffer solution was spotted on the PNA, and the fluorescence signals of the SA-Cy5 were measured and compared with those on a bare glass substrate. The enhancement factor was affected by the gap between the nanolenses, and the maximum enhancement factor of ~128 was obtained from the PNA with a SiO2 layer thickness of 150 nm and an Ag layer thickness of 100 nm. Finally, an electromagnetic field analysis was used to examine the fluorescence signal enhancement, and was conducted using rigorous coupled wave analysis.
Local Order and Dynamics of Nanoconstrained Ethylene-Butylene Chain Segments in SEBS
Authors: Mauri Michele , Floudas George , Simonutti Roberto
Published: June 2018

Subtle alterations in the mid-block of polystyrene-b-poly (ethylene-co-butylene)-b-polystyrene (SEBS) have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of the resulting microphase separated materials. In samples with high butylene content, the ethylene-co-butylene (EB) phase behaves as a rubber, as seen by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), time domain (TD) and Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) NMR, X-ray scattering at small (SAXS), and wide (WAXS) angles. In samples where the butylene content is lower—but still sufficient to prevent crystallization in bulk EB—the DSC thermogram presents a broad endothermic transition upon heating from 221 to 300 K. TD NMR, supported by WAXS and dielectric spectroscopy measurements, probed the dynamic phenomena of EB during this transition. The results suggest the existence of a rotator phase for the EB block below room temperature, as a result of nanoconfinement.
UAV Photogrammetry of Forests as a Vulnerable Process. A Sensitivity Analysis for a Structure from Motion RGB-Image Pipeline
Authors: Frey Julian , Kovach Kyle , Stemmler Simon , Koch Barbara
Published: June 2018

Structural analysis of forests by UAV is currently growing in popularity. Given the reduction in platform costs, and the number of algorithms available to analyze data output, the number of applications has grown rapidly. Forest structures are not only linked to economic value in forestry, but also to biodiversity and vulnerability issues. LiDAR remains the most promising technique for forest structural assessment, but small LiDAR sensors suitable for UAV applications are expensive and are limited to a few manufactures. The estimation of 3D-structures from two-dimensional image sequences called ‘Structure from motion’ (SfM) overcomes this limitation by photogrammetrically reconstructing point clouds similar to those rendered from LiDAR sensors. The result of these techniques in highly structured terrain strongly depends on the methods employed during image acquisition, therefore structural indices might be vulnerable to misspecifications in flight campaigns. In this paper, we outline how image overlap and ground sampling distances affect image reconstruction completeness in 2D and 3D. Higher image overlaps and coarser GSDs have a clearly positive influence on reconstruction quality. Therefore, higher accuracy requirements in the GSD must be compensated by a higher image overlap. The best results are achieved with an image overlap of > 95% and a resolution of > 5 cm. The most important environmental factors have been found to be wind and terrain elevation, which could be an indicator of vegetation density.
TerraSAR-X and Wetlands: A Review
Authors: Wohlfart Christian , Winkler Karina , Wendleder Anna , Roth Achim
Published: June 2018

Since its launch in 2007, TerraSAR-X observations have been widely used in a broad range of scientific applications. Particularly in wetland research, TerraSAR-X’s shortwave X-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) possesses unique capabilities, such as high spatial and temporal resolution, for delineating and characterizing the inherent spatially and temporally complex and heterogeneous structure of wetland ecosystems and their dynamics. As transitional areas, wetlands comprise characteristics of both terrestrial and aquatic features, forming a large diversity of wetland types. This study reviews all published articles incorporating TerraSAR-X information into wetland research to provide a comprehensive study of how this sensor has been used with regard to polarization, and the function of the data, time-series analyses, or the assessment of specific wetland ecosystem types. What is evident throughout this literature review is the synergistic fusion of multi-frequency and multi-polarization SAR sensors, sometimes optical sensors, in almost all investigated studies to attain improved wetland classification results. Due to the short revisiting time of the TerraSAR-X sensor, it is possible to compute dense SAR time-series, allowing for a more precise observation of the seasonality in dynamic wetland areas as demonstrated in many of the reviewed studies.
A Microelectrode Array with Reproducible Performance Shows Loss of Consistency Following Functionalization with a Self-Assembled 6-Mercapto-1-hexanol Layer
Authors: Corrigan Damion K. , Vezza Vincent , Schulze Holger , Bachmann Till T. , Mount Andrew R. , Walton Anthony J. , Terry Jonathan G.
Published: June 2018

For analytical applications involving label-free biosensors and multiple measurements, i.e., across an electrode array, it is essential to develop complete sensor systems capable of functionalization and of producing highly consistent responses. To achieve this, a multi-microelectrode device bearing twenty-four equivalent 50 µm diameter Pt disc microelectrodes was designed in an integrated 3-electrode system configuration and then fabricated. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used for initial electrochemical characterization of the individual working electrodes. These confirmed the expected consistency of performance with a high degree of measurement reproducibility for each microelectrode across the array. With the aim of assessing the potential for production of an enhanced multi-electrode sensor for biomedical use, the working electrodes were then functionalized with 6-mercapto-1-hexanol (MCH). This is a well-known and commonly employed surface modification process, which involves the same principles of thiol attachment chemistry and self-assembled monolayer (SAM) formation commonly employed in the functionalization of electrodes and the formation of biosensors. Following this SAM formation, the reproducibility of the observed electrochemical signal between electrodes was seen to decrease markedly, compromising the ability to achieve consistent analytical measurements from the sensor array following this relatively simple and well-established surface modification. To successfully and consistently functionalize the sensors, it was necessary to dilute the constituent molecules by a factor of ten thousand to support adequate SAM formation on microelectrodes. The use of this multi-electrode device therefore demonstrates in a high throughput manner irreproducibility in the SAM formation process at the higher concentration, even though these electrodes are apparently functionalized simultaneously in the same film formation environment, confirming that the often seen significant electrode-to-electrode variation in label-free SAM biosensing films formed under such conditions is not likely to be due to variation in film deposition conditions, but rather kinetically controlled variation in the SAM layer formation process at these microelectrodes.
MineLoC: A Rapid Production of Lab-on-a-Chip Biosensors Using 3D Printer and the Sandbox Game, Minecraft
Authors: Kim Kyukwang , Kim Hyeongkeun , Kim Seunggyu , Jeon Jessie S.
Published: June 2018

Here, MineLoC is described as a pipeline developed to generate 3D printable models of master templates for Lab-on-a-Chip (LoC) by using a popular multi-player sandbox game “Minecraft”. The user can draw a simple diagram describing the channels and chambers of the Lab-on-a-Chip devices with pre-registered color codes which indicate the height of the generated structure. MineLoC converts the diagram into large chunks of blocks (equal sized cube units composing every object in the game) in the game world. The user and co-workers can simultaneously access the game and edit, modify, or review, which is a feature not generally supported by conventional design software. Once the review is complete, the resultant structure can be exported into a stereolithography (STL) file which can be used in additive manufacturing. Then, the Lab-on-a-Chip device can be fabricated by the standard protocol to produce a Lab-on-a-Chip. The simple polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) device for the bacterial growth measurement used in the previous research was copied by the proposed method. The error calculation by a 3D model comparison showed an accuracy of 86%. It is anticipated that this work will facilitate more use of 3D printer-based Lab-on-a-Chip fabrication, which greatly lowers the entry barrier in the field of Lab-on-a-Chip research.
Fiber Bragg Grating Displacement Sensor with High Abrasion Resistance for a Steel Spring Floating Slab Damping Track
Authors: Guo Yongxing , Liu Wenlong , Xiong Li , Kuang Yi , Wu Heng , Liu Honghai
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) displacement sensor with high abrasion resistance for displacement monitoring of a steel spring floating slab damping track. A wedge-shaped sliding block and an equal-strength beam form a conversion mechanism to transfer displacement to the deflection of the beam, and the deflection-induced strain is exerted on two FBGs. A special linear guide rail-slider and a precision rolling bearing have been adopted onto the conversion mechanism, which turned sliding friction into rolling friction and thus significantly reduced the friction during frequent alternating displacement measuring. Sensing principle and the corresponding theoretical derivation have been demonstrated. Experiment results show that the sensor has a sensitivity of 34.32 pm/mm and a high resolution of 0.0029 mm within a measurement range of 0~90 mm. Besides, the sensor has also a good measurement capability for micro-displacement within a range of 0~3 mm. The repeatability error and hysteresis error are 1.416% and 0.323%, respectively. Good creep resistance and high abrasion resistance for alternating displacement measurement have also been presented by a performance test. These excellent performances satisfy the requirements of high precision and long-term stability in structural health monitoring for machinery equipment and civil engineering, especially in the displacement monitoring of a floating slab damping track.
Constructing an Evaluation Framework for Eco-Museum Operations-Management Performance, Based on the Case of Jhushan, Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Kuo-Wei , Lin Meng-Li , Chao Jen-Chih , Huang Shu-Fang
Published: June 2018

The bamboo-art industry in Taiwan’s Jhushan Township is inseparable from local life. In the face of local industrial-development difficulties in smaller towns, the Taiwan government aimed to achieve a range of (re)development goals using eco-museums as collaboration platforms and required such museums to combine their operations management with cultural preservation, local industrial development, and local residents’ goals. As such, the likely future performance of such operations management has emerged as a crucially important factor in decision-making about whether such museums should be constructed. This study, therefore, reviews the relevant literature on the operations-management performance of museums, with special attention to eco-museums, and proposes an operations-management performance measurement framework for eco-museums based on that review and a two-stage questionnaire administered to experts. The first stage utilized the Fuzzy Delphi Method, which focuses on impact factors, and the second, the Analytica Network Process Method, deals with performance factors. The results indicate that the key impacts on the performance of eco-museums and their operations management were, in order of importance, (1) community symbiosis, (2) cultural inheritance, and (3) regional revitalization. The preservation of cultural heritage, local identity, and community participation are the most important criteria in the operations management of eco-museums, and Jhushan Town can promote such museums through these guidelines.
Colony Development and Reproductive Success of Bumblebees in an Urban Gradient
Authors: Vaidya Chatura , Fisher Kaleigh , Vandermeer John
Published: June 2018

Approximately 35% of all crop production is dependent on animal-mediated pollination. Many wild bee species are declining rapidly across North America and Europe, a potential consequence of land-use change driven by agricultural intensification and urbanization. In this study we assessed the impact of urbanization on the reproductive success and population growth rate of bumblebees in an urbanization gradient. We placed experimental nests in ten sites; all except one were community gardens, ranging from a 0–99% degree of urbanization. Reproductive success and colony size were positively correlated with cumulative weight gain of the nests (p < 0.05). We did not find an effect of urbanization on the population growth rate of the nests or on forager activity (p > 0.05). Growth rate was strongly negatively affected by the abundance of wax moth larvae (p < 0.05) and positively correlated with parasite diversity (p < 0.05) and the number of foragers entering the nest (p < 0.01). With this study we show that not only bottom-up but also top-down effects are equally important for pollinator population dynamics.
Integration of Membrane Bioreactors with Edible Filamentous Fungi for Valorization of Expired Milk
Authors: Thunuguntla Rahul , Mahboubi Amir , Ferreira Jorge A. , Taherzadeh Mohammad J.
Published: June 2018

Around 29 million tons of milk end as waste yearly in Europe, representing an environmental issue but also a potential substrate for biological valorization given its nutritional value. Aspergillus oryzae and Neurospora intermedia are edible filamentous fungi with dissimilar metabolism when grown in expired milk. Neurospora intermedia is more devoted to lactose consumption; 68 and 57% of lactose was consumed after cultivation in expired milk and its liquid fraction, respectively. Aspergillus oryzae consumed less lactose in expired milk (14%), but led to better microfiltration characteristics of the final effluent due to fat and protein degradation. A two-stage fed-batch cultivation using membrane bioreactors (MBRs) was developed, bringing together both fungal metabolic characteristics when grown in 70% diluted expired milk. In the first MBR, A.oryzae degraded fat and protein, improved microfiltration, and produced ca 11 g/L of biomass. In the second MBR, N. intermedia consumed the remaining lactose in the permeate and originated ca 7 g/L of biomass. The developed system was successful for valorization of non-sterile milk due to the balance between consumption of bacterial growth-derived acids, consequent pH, and fungal enzymatic activities. Besides, a final clear effluent (83% reduction of COD) was obtained, which is of interest considering wastewater treatment.
Agricultural Oasis Expansion and Its Impact on Oasis Landscape Patterns in the Southern Margin of Tarim Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Liu Yi , Xue Jie , Gui Dongwei , Lei Jiaqiang , Sun Huaiwei , Lv Guanghui , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: June 2018

Oasis landscape change and its pattern dynamics are considered one of the vital research areas on global land use and landscape change in arid regions. An agricultural oasis is the main site of food security and ecosystem services in arid areas. Recently, the dramatic exploitation of agricultural oases has affected oasis stability, inducing some ecological and environmental issues such as water shortage and land degradation. In this study, the Qira oasis on the southern margin of Tarim Basin, Northwest China, was selected as a study area to examine the spatiotemporal changes in an agricultural oasis and the influence on oasis landscape pattern. Based on the integration of Thematic Mapper, Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus, and GF-1 images, the agricultural Qira oasis has rapidly increased, with annual change rates of −0.3%, 1.6%, 3.7%, and 1.5% during 1970–1990, 1990–2000, 2000–2013, and 2013–2016, respectively. With the agricultural oasis expansion, the agricultural land has increased from 91.10 km2 in 1970 to 105.04 km2 in 2016. The percentage of farmland area has increased by 15.3% in 2016 compared with that in 1970. The natural vegetation is decreasing owing to the reclamation of desert–oasis ecotone. The oasis landscape change and pattern are mainly affected by agricultural expansion under water-saving technological utilization, land use policy, and regional economic development demand. The expansion of agricultural oasis is alarming due to human overexploitation. Thus, the government should adjust the layout of agricultural development and pay considerable attention to the oasis environment sustainability. This study can provide a valuable reference on the impact of climate change and human activities on a landscape.
An Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm Based on Different Searching Paths and Perceptual Disturbance
Authors: Sun Wei-zhen , Wang Jie-sheng , Wei Xian
Published: June 2018

Whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is a swarm intelligence optimization algorithm inspired by humpback whale hunting behavior. WOA has many similarities with other swarm intelligence algorithms (PSO, GWO, etc.). WOA’s unique search mechanism enables it to have a strong global search capability while taking into account the strong global search capabilities. In this work, considering the the deficiency of WOA in local search mechanism, combined with the optimization methods of other group intelligent algorithms, perceptual perturbation mechanism is introduced, which makes the agent perform more detailed searches near the local extreme point. At the same time, since the WOA uses a logarithmic spiral curve, the agent cannot fully search all the spaces within its search range, even though the introduction of the perturbation mechanism may still lead to the algorithm falling into a local optimum. Therefore, the equal pitch Archimedes spiral curve is chosen to replace the classic logarithmic spiral curve. In order to fully verify the effect of the search path on the performance of the algorithm, several other spiral curves have been chosen for experimental comparison. By utilizing the 23 benchmark test functions, the simulation results show that WOA (PDWOA) with perceptual perturbation significantly outperforms the standard WOA. Then, based on the PDWOA, the effect of the search path on the performance of the algorithm has been verified. The simulation results show that the equal pitch of the Archimedean spiral curve is best.
Understanding Oxidative Stress in Aedes during Chikungunya and Dengue Virus Infections Using Integromics Analysis
Authors: Shrinet Jatin , Bhavesh Neel Sarovar , Sunil Sujatha
Published: June 2018

Arboviral infection causes dysregulation of cascade of events involving numerous biomolecules affecting fitness of mosquito to combat virus. In response of the viral infection mosquito’s defense mechanism get initiated. Oxidative stress is among the first host responses triggered by the vector. Significant number of information is available showing changes in the transcripts and/or proteins upon Chikungunya virus and Dengue virus mono-infections and as co-infections. In the present study, we collected different -omics data available in the public database along with the data generated in our laboratory related to mono-infections or co-infections of these viruses. We analyzed the data and classified them into their respective pathways to study the role of oxidative stress in combating arboviral infection in Aedes mosquito. The analysis revealed that the oxidative stress related pathways functions in harmonized manner.
Antiviral Effects of Clinically-Relevant Interferon-α and Ribavirin Regimens against Dengue Virus in the Hollow Fiber Infection Model (HFIM)
Authors: Pires de Mello Camilly P. , Drusano George L. , Rodriquez Jaime L. , Kaushik Ajeet , Brown Ashley N.
Published: June 2018

Dengue virus (DENV) is the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral illness in humans. Currently, there are no therapeutic agents available to prevent or treat DENV infections. Our objective was to fill this unmet medical need by evaluating the antiviral activity of interferon-α (IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) as a combination therapy against DENV. DENV-infected Vero and Huh-7 cells were exposed to RBV and/or IFN, and the viral burden was quantified over time by plaque assay. Drug-drug interactions for antiviral effect were determined by fitting a mathematical model to the data. We then assessed clinically-relevant exposures of IFN plus RBV using the hollow fiber infection model (HFIM) system. RBV monotherapy was only effective against DENV at toxic concentrations in Vero and Huh-7 cells. IFN, as a single agent, did inhibit DENV replication at physiological concentrations and viral suppression was substantial in Huh-7 cells (Half maximal effective concentration (EC50) = 58.34 IU/mL). As a combination therapy, RBV plus IFN was additive for viral suppression in both cell lines; however, enhancement of antiviral activity at clinically-achievable concentrations was observed only in Huh-7 cells. Finally, clinical exposures of RBV plus IFN suppressed DENV replication by 99% even when treatment was initiated 24 h post-infection in the HFIM. Further evaluation revealed that the antiviral effectiveness of the combination regimen against DENV is mostly attributed to activity associated with IFN. These findings suggest that IFN is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of DENV.
Small RNA NGS Revealed the Presence of Cherry Virus A and Little Cherry Virus 1 on Apricots in Hungary
Authors: Baráth Dániel , Jaksa-Czotter Nikoletta , Molnár János , Varga Tünde , Balássy Júlia , Szabó Luca Krisztina , Kirilla Zoltán , Tusnády Gábor E. , Preininger Éva , Várallyay Éva
Published: June 2018

Fruit trees, such as apricot trees, are constantly exposed to the attack of viruses. As they are propagated in a vegetative way, this risk is present not only in the field, where they remain for decades, but also during their propagation. Metagenomic diagnostic methods, based on next generation sequencing (NGS), offer unique possibilities to reveal all the present pathogens in the investigated sample. Using NGS of small RNAs, a special field of these techniques, we tested leaf samples of different varieties of apricot originating from an isolator house or open field stock nursery. As a result, we identified Cherry virus A (CVA) and little cherry virus 1 (LChV-1) for the first time in Hungary. The NGS results were validated by RT-PCR and also by Northern blot in the case of CVA. Cloned and Sanger sequenced viral-specific PCR products enabled us to investigate their phylogenetic relationships. However, since these pathogens have not been described in our country before, their role in symptom development and modification during co-infection with other viruses requires further investigation.
Effects of Water Diversion from Yangtze River to Lake Taihu on the Phytoplankton Habitat of the Wangyu River Channel
Authors: Dai Jiangyu , Wu Shiqiang , Wu Xiufeng , Xue Wanyun , Yang Qianqian , Zhu Senlin , Wang Fangfang , Chen Dan
Published: June 2018

To reveal the effects of water diversion from the Yangtze River to Lake Taihu on the phytoplankton habitat of the main water transfer channel of the Wangyu River, we investigated the water’s physicochemical parameters and phytoplankton communities during the water diversion and non-diversion periods over the winters between 2014–2016, respectively. During the water diversion periods in the winter of 2014 and 2015, the nutrients and organic pollutant contents of the Wangyu River channel were significantly lower than those during the non-diversion period in 2016. Moreover, the phytoplankton diversities and relative proportions of Bacillariophyta during the diversion periods evidently increased during the water diversion periods in winter. The increase in the water turbidity content, the decrease in the contents of the permanganate index, and the total phosphorus explained only 21.4% of the variations in the phytoplankton communities between the diversion and non-diversion periods in winter, which revealed significant contributions of the allochthonous species from the Yangtze River and tributaries of the Wangyu River to phytoplankton communities in the Wangyu River. The increasing gradient in the contents of nutrients and organic pollutants from the Yangtze River to Lake Taihu indicated the potential allochthonous pollutant inputs along with the Wangyu River. Further controlling the pollutants from the tributaries of the Wangyu River is critical in order to improve the phytoplankton habitats in river channels and Lake Taihu.
Development and Application of Advanced Muskingum Flood Routing Model Considering Continuous Flow
Authors: Lee Eui Hoon , Lee Ho Min , Kim Joong Hoon
Published: June 2018

The Muskingum flood routing model is a representative flood routing model. The field applicability of the Muskingum flood routing model is known to be good, and the structure of input data is simple. However, accurate flood routing cannot be conducted using current Muskingum flooding routing models due to the structural limitation of equations. The advanced nonlinear Muskingum flood routing model is suggested for improving accuracy, considering continuous flow using weighted inflow. Continuous flow means the past continuous inflows, including first and secondary inflow over time. Five flood data were selected for a comparison between the results of this study and previous ones. The sum of squares, root mean square errors, and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency are applied in order to calculate the error values. The vision correction algorithm was used to estimate parameters in the new model. Generally, the new method yields better results than those described in previous studies, though it shows similar results with the most recent methods (NLMM-L) in some flood data. Finally, the new method and NLMM-L are applied for the prediction of Daechung flood data in Korea. The new method is useful in the prediction of outflows, because it shows better results than NLMM-L.
Recevoir et se mouvoir. La gestuelle dans la réception diplomatique
Authors: Nevejans Pierre
Published: June 2018

La réception diplomatique est profondément marquée par une gestuelle cérémonielle mouvante mais toujours signifiante : comme dans l’ensemble des relations sociales, chaque geste ou posture, qu’il implique le corps dans son ensemble ou simplement un élément vestimentaire, pouvait faire comprendre la tenue de la relation à établir entre le prince et l’ambassadeur. Dans le monde des relations diplomatiques, où tout pouvait prendre des proportions considérables à la moindre mauvaise interprétation, et à une époque où le prince était scruté à chaque minute de sa vie, la gestuelle diplomatique apparaît comme un point de départ très intéressant à une étude globale de la réception diplomatique et de ses enjeux dans l’Europe de la Renaissance.