bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 5 Contributes to Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-Like Lesions through NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Macrophages
Authors: Gaire Bhakta Prasad , Lee Chi-Ho , Kim Wondong , Sapkota Arjun , Lee Do Yup , Choi Ji Woong
Published: July 2020

The pathogenesis of psoriasis, an immune-mediated chronic skin barrier disease, is not fully understood yet. Here, we identified lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor 5 (LPA5)-mediated signaling as a novel pathogenic factor in psoriasis using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model. Amounts of most LPA species were markedly elevated in injured skin of psoriasis mice, along with LPA5 upregulation in injured skin. Suppressing the activity of LPA5 with TCLPA5, a selective LPA5 antagonist, improved psoriasis symptoms, including ear thickening, skin erythema, and skin scaling in imiquimod-challenged mice. TCLPA5 administration attenuated dermal infiltration of macrophages that were found as the major cell type for LPA5 upregulation in psoriasis lesions. Notably, TCLPA5 administration attenuated the upregulation of macrophage NLRP3 in injured skin of mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis. This critical role of LPA5 in macrophage NLRP3 was further addressed using lipopolysaccharide-primed bone marrow-derived macrophages. LPA exposure activated NLRP3 inflammasome in lipopolysaccharide-primed cells, which was evidenced by NLRP3 upregulation, caspase-1 activation, and IL-1β maturation/secretion. This LPA-driven NLRP3 inflammasome activation in lipopolysaccharide-primed cells was significantly attenuated upon LPA5 knockdown. Overall, our findings establish a pathogenic role of LPA5 in psoriasis along with an underlying mechanism, further suggesting LPA5 antagonism as a potential strategy to treat psoriasis.
Fibroblast Growth Factor—14 Acts as Tumor Suppressor in Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Turkowski Kati , Herzberg Frederik , Günther Stefan , Brunn David , Weigert Andreas , Meister Michael , Muley Thomas , Kriegsmann Mark , Schneider Marc A. , Winter Hauke , Thomas Michael , Grimminger Friedrich , Seeger Werner , Savai Pullamsetti Soni , Savai Rajkumar
Published: July 2020

Investigation of the molecular dynamics in lung cancer is crucial for the development of new treatment strategies. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 14 belongs to the FGF family, which might play a crucial role in cancer progression. We analyzed lung adenocarcinoma (LUAC) patients samples and found that FGF14 was downregulated, correlating with reduced survival and oncogenic mutation status. FGF14 overexpression in lung cancer cell lines resulted in decreased proliferation, colony formation, and migration, as well as increased expression of epithelial markers and a decreased expression of mesenchymal markers, indicating a mesenchymal to epithelial transition in vitro. We verified these findings using small interfering RNA against FGF14 and further confirmed the suppressive effect of FGF14 in a NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ immunodeficient xenograft tumor model. Moreover, FGF14 overexpressing tumor cell RNA sequencing data suggests that genes affected by FGF14 were related to the extracellular matrix, playing a role in proliferation and migration. Notably, newly identified FGF14 target genes, adenosine deaminase RNA specific B1 (ADARB1), collagen and calcium-binding epidermal growth factor domain-containing protein 1 (CCBE1), α1 chain of collagen XI (COL11A1), and mucin 16 (MUC16) expression was negatively correlated with overall survival when FGF14 was downregulated in LUAC. These findings led us to suggest that FGF14 regulates proliferation and migration in LUAC.
Engineering the Bridge between Innate and Adaptive Immunity for Cancer Immunotherapy: Focus on γδ T and NK Cells
Authors: Morandi Fabio , Yazdanifar Mahboubeh , Cocco Claudia , Bertaina Alice , Airoldi Irma
Published: July 2020

Most studies on genetic engineering technologies for cancer immunotherapy based on allogeneic donors have focused on adaptive immunity. However, the main limitation of such approaches is that they can lead to severe graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). An alternative approach would bolster innate immunity by relying on the natural tropism of some subsets of the innate immune system, such as γδ T and natural killer (NK) cells, for the tumor microenvironment and their ability to kill in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent manner. γδ T and NK cells have the unique ability to bridge innate and adaptive immunity while responding to a broad range of tumors. Considering these properties, γδ T and NK cells represent ideal sources for developing allogeneic cell therapies. Recently, significant efforts have been made to exploit the intrinsic anti-tumor capacity of these cells for treating hematologic and solid malignancies using genetic engineering approaches such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and T cell receptor (TCR). Here, we review over 30 studies on these two approaches that use γδ T and NK cells in adoptive cell therapy (ACT) for treating cancer. Based on those studies, we propose several promising strategies to optimize the clinical translation of these approaches.
The RNA Methyltransferase NSUN2 and Its Potential Roles in Cancer
Authors: Chellamuthu Anitha , Gray Steven G.
Published: July 2020

5-methylcytosine is often associated as an epigenetic modifier in DNA. However, it is also found increasingly in a plethora of RNA species, predominantly transfer RNAs, but increasingly found in cytoplasmic and mitochondrial ribosomal RNAs, enhancer RNAs, and a number of long noncoding RNAs. Moreover, this modification can also be found in messenger RNAs and has led to an increasing appreciation that RNA methylation can functionally regulate gene expression and cellular activities. In mammalian cells, the addition of m5C to RNA cytosines is carried out by enzymes of the NOL1/NOP2/SUN domain (NSUN) family as well as the DNA methyltransferase homologue DNMT2. In this regard, NSUN2 is a critical RNA methyltransferase for adding m5C to mRNA. In this review, using non-small cell lung cancer and other cancers as primary examples, we discuss the recent developments in the known functions of this RNA methyltransferase and its potential critical role in cancer.
Could Pirfenidone Also be Effective in Treating Intestinal Fibrosis?
Authors: Latella Giovanni , Viscido Angelo
Published: July 2020

Fibrogenesis is a physiological process of tissue repair triggered by acute inflammation, but in chronic inflammation it may become a progressive and independent process leading to fibrosis [...]
MicroRNA-221: A Fine Tuner and Potential Biomarker of Chronic Liver Injury
Authors: Markovic Jovana , Sharma Amar Deep , Balakrishnan Asha
Published: July 2020

The last decade has witnessed significant advancements in our understanding of how small noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate disease progression. One such miRNA, miR-221, has been shown to play a key role in the progression of liver fibrosis, a common feature of most liver diseases. Many reports have demonstrated the upregulation of miR-221 in liver fibrosis caused by multiple etiologies such as viral infections and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Inhibition of miR-221 via different strategies has shown promising results in terms of the suppression of fibrogenic gene signatures in vitro, as well as in vivo, in independent mouse models of liver fibrosis. In addition, miR-221 has also been suggested as a noninvasive serum biomarker for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In this review, we discuss the biology of miR-221, its significance and use as a biomarker during progression of liver fibrosis, and finally, potential and robust approaches that can be utilized to suppress liver fibrosis via inhibition of miR-221.
Skin-Like Strain Sensors Enabled by Elastomer Composites for Human–Machine Interfaces
Authors: Yiu Chunki , Wong Tsz Hung , Liu Yiming , Yao Kuanming , Zhao Ling , Li Dengfeng , Hai Zhao , Zheng Huanxi , Wang Zuankai , Yu Xinge
Published: July 2020

Flexible electronics exhibit tremendous potential applications in biosensing and human–machine interfaces for their outstanding mechanical performance and excellent electrical characteristics. In this work, we introduce a soft, skin-integrated strain sensor enabled by a ternary elastomer composite of graphene/carbon nanotube (CNT)/Ecoflex, providing a low-cost skin-like platform for conversion of mechanical motion to electricity and sensing of human activities. The device exhibits high sensitivity (the absolute value of the resistance change rate under a testing strain level, 26) and good mechanical stability (surviving ~hundreds of cycles of repeated stretching). Due to the advanced mechanical design of the metallic electrode, the strain sensor shows excellent mechanical tolerance to pressing, bending, twisting, and stretching. The flexible sensor can be directly mounted onto human skin for detecting mechanical motion, exhibiting its great potential in wearable electronics and human–machine interfaces.
Coating a Sustainable Future
Authors: Pourhashem Ghasideh
Published: July 2020

The increasing demand for more sustainable products, now more than ever, has been driving research efforts in academia and industry to develop novel coatings solutions. This special issue aims at exploring opportunities for developing such coatings that incorporate elements of sustainability in their design by utilizing green materials or processes while offering desired performance in a variety of applications.
Electrodeposition of Hydroxyapatite on a Metallic 3D-Woven Bioscaffold
Authors: Xue Ju , Farris Ashley , Wang Yunfei , Yeh Weiyan , Romany Cristina , Guest James K. , Grayson Warren L. , Hall Anthony S. , Weihs Timothy P.
Published: July 2020

In this study, we demonstrate that a uniform coating of hydroxyapatite (HAp, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) can be electrochemically deposited onto metallic 3D-woven bone scaffolds to enhance their bioactivity. The HAp coatings were deposited onto metallic scaffolds using an electrolyte containing Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, NH4H2PO4, and NaNO3. The deposition potential was varied to maximize the uniformity and adhesion of the coating. Using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), we found crystallized HAp on the 3D-woven lattice under all deposition potentials, while the −1.5 V mercury sulfate reference electrode potential provided the best local uniformity with a satisfactory deposition rate. The coatings generated under this optimized condition were approximately 5 µm thick and uniform throughout the internal and external sections of the woven lattice. We seeded and cultured both coated and uncoated scaffolds with human adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs) for 12 h and 4 days. We observed that the HAp coating increased the initial cell seeding efficiency by approximately 20%. Furthermore, after 4 days of culture, ASCs cultured on HAp-coated stainless-steel scaffolds increased by 32% compared to only 17% on the uncoated scaffold. Together, these results suggest that the HAp coating improves cellular adhesion.
Investigation of the Surface Integrity of Q345 Steel After Nd:YAG Laser Cleaning of Oxidized Mining Parts
Authors: Ma Mingliang , Wang Liming , Li Jianfeng , Jia Xiujie , Wang Xing , Ren Yuan , Zhou Yuansheng
Published: July 2020

As a common mechanical material for mining machinery, Q345 is prone to oxidation due to the moist working environment. At present, laser cleaning is often used to remove rust oxides from the substrate. The pollutant of mining machinery is comprised of a heavy oxide layer and organic ingredients, which are difficult to remove and require high energy per pulse. However, excessive energy is capable of easily destroying surface integrity, such as increasing surface roughness (Ra), generating ablative pits, oxidizing, decreasing microhardness (HV), and decreasing corrosion resistance. Therefore, this paper focused on investigating the surface integrity of mining parts under different laser powers, repetition rates and overlapping rates of the laser spots. The results showed that the surface integrity of the samples gradually improved as the energy per pulse and overlapping rates increased. However, excessive energy caused a negative effect on surface integrity. Based on the comprehensive analysis, optimal parameters were obtained when the power was 280 W, the repetition rate was 10 kHz (pulse duration 84 ns), and the overlapping rate of the laser spot was 70%. This work can provide theoretical guidance for the laser cleaning of mining machinery.
High-Selectivity Growth of GaN Nanorod Arrays by Liquid-Target Magnetron Sputter Epitaxy
Authors: Serban Elena Alexandra , Prabaswara Aditya , Palisaitis Justinas , Persson Per Ola Åke , Hultman Lars , Birch Jens , Hsiao Ching-Lien
Published: July 2020

Selective-area grown, catalyst-free GaN nanorod (NR) arrays grown on Si substrates have been realized using liquid-target reactive magnetron sputter epitaxy (MSE). Focused ion beam lithography (FIBL) was applied to pattern Si substrates with TiNx masks. A liquid Ga target was sputtered in a mixture gas of Ar and N2, ranging the N2 partial pressure (PN₂) ratio from 100% to 50%. The growth of NRs shows a strong correlation with PN₂ on the selectivity, coalescence, and growth rate of NRs in both radial and axial directions. The growth rate of NRs formed inside the nanoholes increases monotonically with PN₂. The PN₂ ratio between 80% and 90% was found to render both a high growth rate and high selectivity. When the PN₂ ratio was below 80%, multiple NRs were formed in the nanoholes. For a PN₂ ratio higher than 90%, parasitic NRs were grown on the mask. An observed dependence of growth behavior upon the PN₂ ratio is attributed to a change in the effective Ga/N ratio on the substrate surface, as an effect of impinging reactive species, surface diffusivity, and residence time of adatoms. The mechanism of NR growth control was further investigated by studying the effect of nanoholes array pitch and growth temperature. The surface diffusion and the direct impingement of adatoms were found to be the dominant factors affecting the lateral and axial growth rates of NR, respectively, which were well elucidated by the collection area model.
Effect of Deposition Parameters on the Reactivity of Al/Ni Multilayer Thin Films
Authors: Ramos Ana Sofia , Simões Sónia , Maj Lukasz , Morgiel Jerzy , Vieira Maria Teresa
Published: July 2020

Nanoscale multilayers can be used as highly localized heat sources, making them attractive for several applications, in particular for joining and as igniters. Over the last decades, academia and industry have given particular emphasis to nanoscale multilayers from the Ni–Al system. In this study, Al/Ni (V) multilayer thin films with periods of nominally 25 and 50 nm (bilayer thickness) and near equiatomic average stoichiometry were produced by d.c. magnetron sputtering from Al (99.999% pure) and Ni (93 wt % Ni, 7 wt % V) targets (vanadium was added to the Ni target to make it non-magnetic). Deposition parameters such as the substrate rotation speed and substrate bias were varied in order to evaluate their effect on the reactivity of the multilayers. The influence of in situ ion bombardment of the multilayer thin films was also studied. Phase identification was carried out by X-ray diffraction, while the microstructure was analyzed in detail by transmission electron microscopy, distinguishing alternating layers throughout the entire thickness of the films. Although the films mainly consist of Al- and Ni-rich layers, the presence of the Al3Ni intermetallic phase was detected, except in the multilayers produced with the ion gun switched on during the deposition process. The ion bombardment, as well as the increase of the substrate bias, promote some microstructural disorder and thus affect the multilayers’ reactivity.
A Simulation Study on the Crack Propagation Behavior of Nanostructured Thermal Barrier Coatings with Tailored Microstructure
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Yu , Fan Wei , Gao Yuan , Sun Yiwen , Bai Yu
Published: July 2020

The initiation and propagation of cracks are crucial to the reliability and stability of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). It is important and necessary to develop an effective method for the prediction of the crack propagation behavior of TBCs. In this study, an extended finite element model (XFEM) based on the real microstructure of nanostructured TBCs was built and employed to elucidate the correlation between the microstructure and crack propagation behavior. Results showed that the unmelted nano-particles (UNPs) that were distributed in the nanostructured coating had an obvious “capture effect” on the cracks, which means that many cracks easily accumulated in the tensile stress zone of the adjacent UNPs and a complex microcrack network formed at their periphery. Arbitrarily oriented cracks mainly propagated parallel to the x-axis at the final stage of thermal cycles and the tensile stress was the main driving force for the spallation failure of TBCs. Correspondingly, I and I–II mixed types of cracks are the major cracking patterns.
Magnetic Field and Dilution Effects on the Phase Diagrams of Simple Statistical Models for Nematic Biaxial Systems
Authors: Rodrigues Daniel D. , Vieira André P. , Salinas Silvio R.
Published: July 2020

We use a simple statistical model to investigate the effects of an applied magnetic field and of the dilution of site elements on the phase diagrams of biaxial nematic systems, with an emphasis on the stability of the Landau multicritical point. The statistical lattice model consists of intrinsically biaxial nematogenic units, which interact via a Maier–Saupe potential, and which are characterized by a discrete choice of orientations of the microscopic nematic directors. According to previous calculations at zero field and in the absence of dilution, we regain the well-known sequence of biaxial, uniaxial, and disordered structures as the temperature is increased, and locate the Landau point. We then focus on the topological changes induced in the phase diagram by the application of an external magnetic field, and show that the Landau point is destabilized by the presence of an applied field. On the other hand, in the absence of a field, we show that only a quite strong dilution of nematic sites is capable of destabilizing the Landau point.
Electron-Beam Irradiation for Boosting Storage Energy Density of Tuned Poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene)/Graphene Nanoplatelet Polymer Composites
Authors: Permana Ardian , Chirasatitsin Somyot , Putson Chatchai
Published: July 2020

In current, the energy storage materials based on electrets and ferroelectric polymers are urgently demanded for electric power supply and renewable energy applications. The high energy storage density can be enhanced by conducting or inorganic fillers to ferroelectric polymer matrix. However, agglomeration, phase separation of fillers, interfacial phase regions and crystallinity of matrix remain the main factors for the improvement of energy storage density in those composites. Poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) was modified with graphene nanoplatelets for enhanced the dielectric properties and energy storage density, which combines the irradiated by electron beam. Tuning effect of the crystalline regions and polar phases with graphene nanoplatelets and electron irradiation on its surface, structure, electrical and energy storage properties were observed. The film homogeneity was increased by reducing the pores, along with the improvement of surface roughness and hydrophobicity, which related with the dielectric properties and energy storage density. The β-phase fraction and crystallinity improvement significantly affect electrical properties by improving polarization and dielectric constant. As a core, electron beam dramatically reduce the crystals size by two times. Hence, energy storage density of composites was enhanced, while energy loss was reduced under operating conditions. Results on the improvement of energy efficiency were from 68.11 to 74.66% for neat poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF-HFP)), much higher than previously reported of 58%, and doubled for P(VDF-HFP)/GNPs composites which will be discussed and evaluated for the practical energy storage materials.
Electronic Structure and High Magnetic Properties of (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC Studied by First-Principle Calculations
Authors: Zhang Mengyu , Huang Jingtao , Liu Xiao , Lin Long , Tao Hualong
Published: July 2020

The electronic structure and magnetic properties of 3d transition metal (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC were studied by density functional theory within GGA methods. The results show that all doped magnetic atoms have high magnetic properties in both Cr-doped and Co-doped 4H–SiC, resulting in the net magnetic moments of 3.03, 3.02 μ B for Si 35 CrC 36 and Si 35 CoC 36 . The electronic density of states reaches the peak at Fermi level, which is beneficial to the electronic transitions, indicating that Cr-doped 4H–SiC is a semi-metallic material. In addition, the magnetic properties of (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC were also calculated. The results show that the (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC system has more stable ferromagnetic properties with ΔE F M of −244.3 meV, and we estimated T C of about 470.8 K for the (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC system. The (Cr, Co)-codoped 4H–SiC can be ferromagnetic through some mechanism based on hybridization between local Cr:3d, Co:3d and C:2p states. These interesting discoveries will help promote the use of excellent SiC-based nanomaterials in spintronics and multi-function nanodevices in the near future.
First-Principles Investigation of CO Adsorption on h-Fe7C3 Catalyst
Authors: Fu Jinzhe , Sun Deshuai , Chen Zhaojun , Zhang Jian , Du Hui
Published: July 2020

h-Fe7C3 is considered as the main active phase of medium-temperature Fe-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts. Basic theoretical guidance for the design and preparation of Fe-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts can be obtained by studying the adsorption and activation behavior of CO on h-Fe7C3. In this paper, the first-principles method based on density functional theory is used to study the crystal structure properties of h-Fe7C3 and the adsorption and activation CO on its low Miller index surfaces ( 1 1 ¯ 0 ) , ( 1 1 ¯ 1 ) , ( 101 ) , ( 1 1 ¯ 1 ¯ ) and ( 001 ) . It was found that the low Miller index crystal plane of h-Fe7C3 crystal has multiple equivalent crystal planes and that the maximum adsorption energy of CO at the 3F2 point of the ( 1 1 ¯ 1 ) plane is −2.50 eV, indicating that h-Fe7C3 has a better CO adsorption performance. In addition, the defects generated at the truncated position of the h-Fe7C3 crystal plane have a great impact on the adsorption energy of CO on its surface, that is, the adsorption energy of CO on Fe atoms with C vacancies is higher. The activity of CO after adsorption is greatly affected by the adsorption configuration and less affected by the adsorption energy. The higher the coordination number of Fe atoms after adsorption, the higher the CO activity. At the same time, it was found that the bonding of O and Fe atoms is conducive to the activation of CO.
Laser Metal Deposition of an AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5 High-Entropy Alloy Coating on a Ti6Al4V Substrate: Microstructure and Oxidation Behavior
Authors: Cui Wenyuan , Li Wei , Chen Wei-Ting , Liou Frank
Published: July 2020

Ti6Al4V has been recognized as an attractive material, due to its combination of low density and favorable mechanical properties. However, its insufficient oxidation resistance has limited the high-temperature application. In this work, an AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5 high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating was fabricated on a Ti6Al4V substrate using laser metal deposition (LMD). The microstructure and isothermal oxidation behaviors were investigated. The microstructure of as-deposited HEA exhibited a Fe, Cr-rich A2 phase and an Al, Ni, Ti-enriched B2 phase. Its hardness was approximately 2.1 times higher than that of the substrate. The oxidation testing at 700 °C and 800 °C suggested that the HEA coating has better oxidation resistance than the Ti6Al4V substrate. The oxide scales of the Ti6Al4V substrate were mainly composed of TiO2, while continuous Al2O3 and Cr2O3 were formed in the HEA coatings and could be attributed to oxidation resistance improvement. This work provides an approach to mitigate the oxidation resistance of Ti6Al4V and explore the applicability of the HEA in a high-temperature environment.
The Nano-Confinement Effect on the SCO Behavior of [Fe(NH2trz)3](NO3)2 1D Chains in MCM-41
Authors: Zhao Tian , Zhu Hexin , Dong Ming
Published: July 2020

A polymeric chain spin-crossover (SCO) compound [Fe(NH2trz)3](NO3)2 was embedded in the pores of mesoporous silica MCM-41, which yielded an M@S composite. The obtained material was characterized by infrared spectrometry, powder X-ray diffractometry, gas sorption studies, electron microscopy, and atomic absorption. The temperature-induced SCO behavior of the composite was monitored by temperature-variable magnetic measurement. The results indicate that the spin transition curve of the composite was evidently shifted to a higher temperature in comparison to bulk [Fe(NH2trz)3](NO3)2. The shift in the transition temperature for M@S [versus bulk [Fe(NH2trz)3](NO3)2] amounted to Tc↑ = 362 K [347 K] and Tc↓ = 327 K [314 K] (magnetic data). The significant difference in the SCO behavior of [Fe(NH2trz)3](NO3)2 when embedded in the MCM-41 matrix may be attributed to the strengthened cooperativity of compound S and the nano-confinement pressure of SiO2 walls.
Algal Diversity in Paramecium bursaria: Species Identification, Detection of Choricystis parasitica, and Assessment of the Interaction Specificity
Authors: Flemming Felicitas E. , Potekhin Alexey , Pröschold Thomas , Schrallhammer Martina
Published: July 2020

The ‘green’ ciliate Paramecium bursaria lives in mutualistic symbiosis with green algae belonging to the species Chlorella variabilis or Micractinium conductrix. We analysed the diversity of algal endosymbionts and their P. bursaria hosts in nine strains from geographically diverse origins. Therefore, their phylogenies using different molecular markers were inferred. The green paramecia belong to different syngens of P. bursaria. The intracellular algae were assigned to Chl. variabilis, M. conductrix or, surprisingly, Choricystis parasitica. This usually free-living alga co-occurs with M. conductrix in the host’s cytoplasm. Addressing the potential status of Chor. parasitica as second additional endosymbiont, we determined if it is capable of symbiosis establishment and replication within a host cell. Symbiont-free P. bursaria were generated by cycloheximid treatment. Those aposymbiotic P. bursaria were used for experimental infections to investigate the symbiosis specificity not only between P. bursaria and Chor. parasitica but including also Chl. variabilis and M. conductrix. For each algae we observed the uptake and incorporation in individual perialgal vacuoles. These host-symbiont associations are stable since more than five months. Thus, Chor. parasitica and P. bursaria can form an intimate and long-term interaction. This study provides new insights into the diversity of P. bursaria algal symbionts.
Variable Selection Using Nonlocal Priors in High-Dimensional Generalized Linear Models With Application to fMRI Data Analysis
Authors: Cao Xuan , Lee Kyoungjae
Published: July 2020

High-dimensional variable selection is an important research topic in modern statistics. While methods using nonlocal priors have been thoroughly studied for variable selection in linear regression, the crucial high-dimensional model selection properties for nonlocal priors in generalized linear models have not been investigated. In this paper, we consider a hierarchical generalized linear regression model with the product moment nonlocal prior over coefficients and examine its properties. Under standard regularity assumptions, we establish strong model selection consistency in a high-dimensional setting, where the number of covariates is allowed to increase at a sub-exponential rate with the sample size. The Laplace approximation is implemented for computing the posterior probabilities and the shotgun stochastic search procedure is suggested for exploring the posterior space. The proposed method is validated through simulation studies and illustrated by a real data example on functional activity analysis in fMRI study for predicting Parkinson’s disease.
Algorithm for Designing Professional Retraining Programs Based on a Competency Approach
Authors: Anamova Rushana R. , Bykov Leonid V. , Kozorez Dmitri A.
Published: July 2020

A new methodology is proposed for designing professional retraining programs for aviation, rocket, and space industry employees, focused on the formation of the necessary competencies. The novelty of the proposed method is in the formalization of the design process and the use of digital technologies. The advantage is the use of a modular principle of program design, which provides the opportunity to implement individual training paths for workers in industrial enterprises. The methodology was successfully tested at the Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University) in the provision of educational services to enterprises in the aviation and aerospace industries.
Closing the HIV and AIDS “Information Gap” Between Children and Parents: An Exploration of Makerspaces in a Ugandan Primary School
Authors: Kendrick Maureen , Namazzi Elizabeth , Becker-Zayas Ava , Tibwamulala Esther Nancy
Published: July 2020

In this study, we address the research question: “How might child-created billboards about HIV and AIDS help facilitate more open discussions between parents and children?" The premise of our study is that there may be considerable potential for using multimodal forms of representation in makerspaces with young children to create more open dialogue with parents about culturally sensitive information. Drawing on multimodal literacies and visual methodologies, we designed a makerspace in a grade 5 classroom (with students aged 9–10) in a Ugandan residential primary school. Our makerspace included soliciting students’ knowledge about HIV and AIDS as part of a class discussion focused on billboards in the local community and providing art materials for students to explore their understandings of HIV and AIDS through the creation of billboards as public service announcements. Parents were engaged in the work as audience members during a public exhibition at the school. Data sources include the billboards as artifacts, observations within the makerspace, and interviews with parents and children following the public exhibition. The findings show that, for parents and children, the billboards enhanced communication; new understandings about HIV and AIDS were gained; and real-life concerns about HIV and AIDS were made more visible. Although these more open conversations may depend to some degree on family relationships more broadly, we see great potential for makerspaces to serve as a starting point for closing the HIV and AIDS information gap between children and parents.
Research of Security Routing Protocol for UAV Communication Network Based on AODV
Authors: Tan Xiaopeng , Zuo Zhen , Su Shaojing , Guo Xiaojun , Sun Xiaoyong
Published: July 2020

With the rapid development of information technology and the increasing application of UAV in various fields, the security problems of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communication network have become increasingly prominent. It has become an important scientific challenge to design a routing protocol that can provide efficient and reliable node to node packet transmission. In this paper, an efficient Digital Signature algorithm based on the elliptic curve cryptosystem is applied to routing protocol, and an improved security method suitable for on-demand routing protocol is proposed. The UAV communication network was simulated through the NS2 simulation platform, and the execution efficiency and safety of the improved routing protocol were analyzed. In the simulation experiment, the routing protocols of ad-hoc on demand distance vector (AODV), security ad-hoc on demand distance vector (SAODV), and improved security ad-hoc on demand distance vector (ISAODV) are compared in terms of the performance indicators of packet delivery rate, throughput, and end-to-end delay under normal conditions and when attacked by malicious nodes. The simulation results show that the improved routing protocol can effectively improve the security of the UAV communication network.
A Novel Market Clearing and Safety Checking Method for Multi-Type Units That Considers Flexible Loads
Authors: Hua Dong , Chen Wutao , Zhang Cong
Published: July 2020

Flexible loads have flexibility and variability in time and space, and they have been widely studied by scholars. However, the research on the participation of flexible loads in market clearing and safety checking is still insufficient. We propose a market clearing and safety checking method for multi-type units that considers flexible loads. First, the flexible load is divided into reducible loads, shiftable loads, and convertible loads, and its mathematical model is established. Then, the convertible loads are considered in the market clearing model, and the power management agency executes the market clearing procedure to obtain the clearing result. When the line power exceeds the limit as a result of clearing, the power flow of the branches and sections is eliminated by adjusting the unit output and reducing the flexible load at the same time, and a safety checking model considering load reduction is established. The marginal electricity price of the nodes is obtained by the interior point method, and we solve the model by calling the CPLEX (v12.7.1) solver in GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System v24.9.1). We use a regional power grid of 220 kV and above as an example for analysis; the results show that the proposed method can reduce the marginal electricity price of the nodes, reduce the cost of safety checking, and improve the safety of the market clearing.
Life Cycle Costing Analysis: Tools and Applications for Determining Hydrogen Production Cost for Fuel Cell Vehicle Technology
Authors: Khzouz Martin , Gkanas Evangelos , Shao Jia , Sher Farooq , Beherskyi Dmytro , El-Kharouf Ahmad , Al Qubeissi Mansour
Published: July 2020

This work investigates life cycle costing analysis as a tool to estimate the cost of hydrogen to be used as fuel for Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicles (HFCVs). The method of life cycle costing and economic data are considered to estimate the cost of hydrogen for centralised and decentralised production processes. In the current study, two major hydrogen production methods are considered, methane reforming and water electrolysis. The costing frameworks are defined for hydrogen production, transportation and final application. The results show that hydrogen production via centralised methane reforming is financially viable for future transport applications. The ownership cost of HFCVs shows the highest cost among other costs of life cycle analysis.
Development of Comprehensive Fuel Management Strategies for Reducing Wildfire Risk in Greece
Authors: Palaiologou Palaiologos , Kalabokidis Kostas , Ager Alan A. , Day Michelle A.
Published: July 2020

A solution to the growing problem of catastrophic wildfires in Greece will require a more holistic fuel management strategy that focuses more broadly on landscape fire behavior and risk in relation to suppression tactics and ignition prevention. Current fire protection planning is either non-existent or narrowly focused on reducing fuels in proximity to roads and communities where ignitions are most likely. A more effective strategy would expand the treatment footprint to landscape scales to reduce fire intensity and increase the likelihood of safe and efficient suppression activities. However, expanding fuels treatment programs on Greek landscapes that are highly fragmented in terms of land use and vegetation requires: (1) a better understanding of how diverse land cover types contribute to fire spread and intensity; and (2) case studies, both simulated and empirical, that demonstrate how landscape fuel management strategies can achieve desired outcomes in terms of fire behavior. In this study, we used Lesvos Island, Greece as a study area to characterize how different land cover types and land uses contribute to fire exposure and used wildfire simulation methods to understand how fire spreads among parcels of forests, developed areas, and other land cover types (shrublands, agricultural areas, and grasslands) as a way to identify fire source–sink relationships. We then simulated a spatially coordinated fuel management program that targeted the fire prone conifer forests that generally burn under the highest intensity. The treatment effects were measured in terms of post-treatment fire behavior and transmission. The results demonstrated an optimized method for fuel management planning that accounts for the connectivity of wildfire among different land types. The results also identified the scale of risk and the limitations of relying on small scattered fuel treatment units to manage long-term wildfire risk.
The Effect of Post-Fire Disturbances on a Seasonally Thawed Layer in the Permafrost Larch Forests of Central Siberia
Authors: Ponomarev Evgenii , Masyagina Oxana , Litvintsev Kirill , Ponomareva Tatiana , Shvetsov Evgeny , Finnikov Konstantin
Published: July 2020

We examined and simulated the consequences of the degradation of the litter and the moss–lichen layer after fire impact, which could affect the seasonal temperature of the soil and the depth of the seasonally thawed layer (STL) in the permafrost zone. According to the analysis of satellite imagery for 2000 to 2019, the fire-disturbed area in the region of interest amounted to 20%. The main aims of the study included quantitative evaluation of the variation range of summer temperature anomalies at fire-damaged plots, summarizing the statistical norm of the STL depending on natural conditions, and numerical simulation of the response of the STL. Using Terra and Aqua/MODIS imagery, we analyzed surface temperature (in bands of λ = 10.780–11.280 and 11.770–12.270 μm) coupled with the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) for non-disturbed and fire-damaged sites under the same natural conditions of larch forests in Central Siberia. Heat transfer, freezing and thawing processes were numerically simulated for two extreme cases of soil conditions: dry soil and water-saturated soil. The model was also applied to soil with non-homogeneous water content. As input parameters, we used data on the properties of cryogenic soils collected in larch forests (Larix gmelinii) in the flat-mountainous taiga region of the Evenkia (Central Siberia). For post-fire plots, surface temperature anomalies observed during summer months remained significant for more than 15–20 years after fire impact, while the NDVI values were restored to the statistical norm within 7–10 years of the fire. According to the results of numerical simulation, the thickness of the STL could show a 30–50% increase compared to the statistical norm. In the first approximation, we showed the annual soil temperature dynamics at various depths in disturbed and non-disturbed plots.
The Organization of Nature Conservation in State-Owned Forests in Poland and Expectations of Polish Stakeholders
Authors: Referowska-Chodak Ewa
Published: July 2020

Research Highlights: The presented findings result from the first large-scale research conducted in Poland in relation to the State Forests—the most important place for the protection of Polish nature. They may constitute an important contribution to the improvement of the nature conservation system. Background and Objectives: The current model of organization of nature conservation in the State Forests in Poland is not fully effective. In regard to the growing influence of society on nature protection and the need to improve the existing system of nature conservation, this study poses the question: what are the expectations of various stakeholders as for the organization of nature conservation in the State Forests? The aim of the article is to present these expectations, to broadly discuss them, and to present recommendations for the future. Materials and Methods: The survey was conducted in 2013, among 41 various stakeholder groups in Poland. The choice of the surveyed groups was determined by their legal competence and/or practical experience in nature conservation in the State Forests. Results: A total of 77.9% of the respondents supported the concept of transferring full responsibility for nature conservation to foresters, while 51.1% supported financing of nature conservation tasks exclusively by the State Forests. In total, 46.8% of respondents believed that foresters should determine the principles and methods of nature conservation. The presented expectations of the Polish stakeholders differ from the current real situation, however, they still cannot be considered as a complete solution. Conclusions: The results indicate a need for a broader discussion and perhaps, consequently, a reorganization of the functioning of nature conservation in state-owned forests in Poland, considering the social expectations and trust in foresters. This can be inspiring also for other countries with a high proportion of state-owned forests.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) as a Tool for Investigating Self-Organized Ascending Bubble-Driven Flow Patterns in Champagne Glasses
Authors: Beaumont Fabien , Liger-Belair Gérard , Polidori Guillaume
Published: July 2020

Champagne glasses are subjected to complex ascending bubble-driven flow patterns, which are believed to enhance the release of volatile organic compounds in the headspace above the glasses. Based on the Eulerian–Lagrangian approach, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used in order to examine how a column of ascending bubbles nucleated at the bottom of a classical champagne glass can drive self-organized flow patterns in the champagne bulk and at the air/champagne interface. Firstly, results from two-dimensional (2D) axisymmetric simulations were compared with a set of experimental data conducted through particle image velocimetry (PIV). Secondly, a three-dimensional (3D) model was developed by using the conventional volume-of-fluid (VOF) multiphase method to resolve the interface between the mixture’s phases (wine–air). In complete accordance with several experimental observations conducted through laser tomography and PIV techniques, CFD revealed a very complex flow composed of surface eddies interacting with a toroidal flow that develops around the ascending bubble column.
Edible Flowers, Old Tradition or New Gastronomic Trend: A First Look at Consumption in Portugal versus Costa Rica
Authors: P. F. Guiné Raquel , Florença Sofia G. , Villalobos Moya Keylor , Anjos Ofélia
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the knowledge and use of edible flowers (EF) in two countries, Portugal, in Europe, and Costa Rica, in Latin America, and aimed to evaluate the similarities and/or differences regarding the utilization of EF in gastronomy. This work consisted of a questionnaire survey, undertaken on a sample of 290 participants. The results indicate that most people surveyed (87%) have heard about EF but believe there is not enough information about them (96%). Only one third of participants consider there are risks associated with the consumption of EF, being those related to toxicity and pesticides. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between participants from the two countries but not with different professional areas. About half (48%) of the participants had already consumed EF, mostly for decoration or confection of dishes (77% positive answers) and in salads (75%). The flowers consumed most frequently were chamomile and rose, respectively, in Costa Rica and Portugal. Reasons pointed out to consume EF include decoration, taste, novelty and aroma, while aspects such as nutritional value or antioxidant capacity are prized by fewer consumers. EF were mostly acquired in supermarkets, cultivated at home or collected in the wild. In general, most participants (85%) consider the use of EF in gastronomy interesting, but less than one third (27%) believe we should eat EF more often. Finally, discriminant function analysis revealed that country was the variable for which the differences in the consumption of EF was more pronounced, while education level and age group showed the lowest variability between groups.
Development of a Sensory Flavor Lexicon for Mushrooms and Subsequent Characterization of Fresh and Dried Mushrooms
Authors: Chun SoonSil , Chambers Edgar , Han Injun
Published: July 2020

Mushrooms are a nutritious versatile ingredient in many food products. They are low in calories and have various potential medicinal properties as well. Surprisingly, little research on their descriptive sensory properties has been conducted. The objectives of this study were to a) establish a descriptive sensory flavor lexicon for the evaluation of fresh, dried, and powdered mushrooms and 2) use that lexicon to compare a selection of different mushrooms of various species and in fresh dried and powdered forms. A lexicon for describing mushroom was developed using a consensus profile method. A highly trained, descriptive sensory panel identified, defined, and referenced 27 flavor attributes for commercially available mushroom samples prepared as “meat” and broth. Attributes could be grouped in categories such as musty (dusty/papery, earthy/humus, earthy/damp, earthy/potato, fermented, leather (new), leather (old), mold/cheesy, moldy/damp, mushroomy), and other attributes such as fishy, shell fish, woody, nutty, brown, green, cardboard, burnt/ashy, potato, umami, protein (vegetable), yeasty, bitter, salty, sweet aromatics, sour, and astringent. Samples were then tested in three replications and mean values were compared statistically. In addition, principal component analysis was used to understand the characteristics of mushrooms evaluated. Dried mushrooms showed bitter, burnt, musty/dusty, astringent, old leather, and fresh mushroom characteristics and fresh mushroom showed umami, sweet, earthy/potato, earthy/damp, yeasty, and fermented. Mushrooms were grouped and differentiated in similar ways regardless of whether they were tested as broth or “meat”. Mushroom growers, product developers, chefs and other culinary professionals, sensory scientists, researchers, the food industry, and ultimately consumers will benefit from this lexicon describing a wide variety of mushroom flavor properties.
Therapeutic Strategies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: An Update
Authors: Sun Chengmei , Shen Luoan , Zhang Zheng , Xie Xin
Published: July 2020

Neuromuscular disorders encompass a heterogeneous group of conditions that impair the function of muscles, motor neurons, peripheral nerves, and neuromuscular junctions. Being the most common and most severe type of muscular dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), is caused by mutations in the X-linked dystrophin gene. Loss of dystrophin protein leads to recurrent myofiber damage, chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis, and dysfunction of muscle stem cells. Over the last few years, there has been considerable development of diagnosis and therapeutics for DMD, but current treatments do not cure the disease. Here, we review the current status of DMD pathogenesis and therapy, focusing on mutational spectrum, diagnosis tools, clinical trials, and therapeutic approaches including dystrophin restoration, gene therapy, and myogenic cell transplantation. Furthermore, we present the clinical potential of advanced strategies combining gene editing, cell-based therapy with tissue engineering for the treatment of muscular dystrophy.