bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audio Fingerprint Extraction Based on Locally Linear Embedding for Audio Retrieval System
Authors: Jia Maoshen , Li Tianhao , Wang Jing
Published: September 2020

With the appearance of a large amount of audio data, people have a higher demand for audio retrieval, which can quickly and accurately find the required information. Audio fingerprint retrieval is a popular choice because of its excellent performance. However, there is a problem about the large amount of audio fingerprint data in the existing audio fingerprint retrieval method which takes up more storage space and affects the retrieval speed. Aiming at the problem, this paper presents a novel audio fingerprinting method based on locally linear embedding (LLE) that has smaller fingerprints and the retrieval is more efficient. The proposed audio fingerprint extraction divides the bands around each peak in the frequency domain into four groups of sub-regions and the energy of every sub-region is computed. Then the LLE is performed for each group, respectively, and the audio fingerprint is encoded by comparing adjacent energies. To solve the distortion of linear speed changes, a matching strategy based on dynamic time warping (DTW) is adopted in the retrieval part which can compare two audio segments with different lengths. To evaluate the retrieval performance of the proposed method, the experiments are carried out under different conditions of single and multiple groups’ dimensionality reduction. Both of them can achieve a high recall and precision rate and has a better retrieval efficiency with less data compared with some state-of-the-art methods.
Wireless Communication and Management System for E-Bike Dynamic Inductive Power Transfer Lanes
Authors: Afonso Jose A. , Duarte Helder G. , Cardoso Luiz A. Lisboa , Monteiro Vitor , Afonso Joao L.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents the design, implementation, and testing of a wireless communication system for automatic identification of e-bikes and management of their battery charging in the context of dynamic inductive wireless power transfer (DIWPT) lanes. The proposed system checks if an e-bike, uniquely identified by its RFID tag, is authorized to receive energy from the lane coils and acts accordingly. An authentication mechanism was developed based on the use of embedded Wi-Fi boards attached to the coils and communicating with a central HTTP server with a MySQL database. The developed management system also provides other features, such as the recording of the number of lane coils used by each e-bike for billing purposes. The results from experimental tests on a laboratory prototype were used to validate the developed functionalities and assess the quality of service provided by the proposed system.
Real Time-Based under Frequency Control and Energy Management of Microgrids
Authors: Worku Muhammed Y. , Hassan Mohamed A. , Abido Mohamed A.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, an efficient under frequency control and the energy management of a distributed energy resources (DERs)-based microgrid is presented. The microgrid is composed of a photovoltaic (PV), double-fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind and diesel generator with critical and non-critical loads. The system model and the control strategy are developed in a real time digital simulator (RTDS). The coordination and power management of the DERs in both grid-connected and islanded operation modes are implemented. During power imbalances and frequency fluctuations caused by fault or islanding, an advanced automatic load shedding control is implemented to regulate and maintain the microgrid frequency at its rated value. One distinct feature implemented for the load shedding operation is that highly unbalanced critical loads are connected to the microgrid. The diesel generator provides the required inertia in the islanded mode to maintain the microgrid rated frequency by operating in the isochronous mode. The International Council on Large Electric Systems (CIGRE) medium voltage (MV) test bench system is used to implement the DERs and their controller. The proposed control approach has potential applications for the complete operation of microgrids by properly controlling the power, voltage and frequency in both grid-connected and island modes. The real time digital simulator results verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed control scheme in grid connected, island and fault conditions.
Comparison of Electricity Spot Price Modelling and Risk Management Applications
Authors: Çanakoğlu Ethem , Adıyeke Esra
Published: September 2020

In dealing with sharp changes in electricity prices, contract planning is considered as a vital risk management tool for stakeholders in deregulated power markets. In this paper, dynamics of spot prices in Turkish electricity market are analyzed, and predictive performance of several models are compared, i.e., time series models and regime-switching models. Different models for derivative pricing are proposed, and alternative portfolio optimization problems using mean-variance optimization and conditional value at risk (CVaR) are solved. Expected payoff and risk structure for different hedging strategies for a hypothetical electricity company with a given demand are analyzed. Experimental studies show that regime-switching models are able to capture electricity characteristics better than their standard counterparts. In addition, evaluations with various risk management models demonstrate that those models are highly competent in providing an effective risk control practice for electricity markets.
Measurements of Discharge through a Pump-Turbine in Both Flow Directions Using Volumetric Gauging and Pressure-Time Methods
Authors: Adamkowski Adam , Janicki Waldemar , Lewandowski Mariusz
Published: September 2020

This article presents the original procedures for measuring the flow rate using the pressure-time and the volumetric gauging method in the case of performance tests of a reversible hydraulic machine in either turbine or pump modes of operation. Achieving the lowest possible measurement uncertainty was one of the basic conditions during implemented machine tests. It was met using appropriate measuring procedures and high-class measuring equipment. Estimation of the uncertainty for both methods was made on the basis of an analysis consistent with current requirements in this respect. The pressure-time method was supplemented by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis that allowed reducing the impact of the pipeline complex irregular geometry on the uncertainty of flow measurement. Appropriate modifications of the calculation procedure enabled accurate measurements of flow during the pump mode of operation of the tested machine as well. The volumetric gauging method, thanks to a special procedure used for accurate measurement of the water level in the upper reservoir of the power plant, allowed measuring the discharge through the tested reversible machine with very low uncertainty. The obtained results allowed for a detailed comparison and mutual verification of the methods used to measure the discharge of the tested reversible machine in both modes of its operation. The most possible causes of obtained results are discussed and summarized in the paper. The need for further research was pointed out to explain the differences obtained and their influence on the accuracy of discharge measurement using the pressure-time method in pump operation mode.
Classical Control for Unequal DC Sources Five-Level Inverter-Based SHE Technique
Authors: Ahmed Mahrous , Hendawi Essam , Alamri Basem , Alharthi Mosleh , Salem Farhan , Orabi Mohamed , Mekhilef Saad , Ghoneim Sherif
Published: September 2020

This study proposes a classical control algorithm for solving the transcendental set of equations for the unequal DC sources of five-level multilevel inverters (MLIs). Such sources can be generated from renewable energy sources. Two DC sources with different values are used to produce an output voltage with five levels. Then, a set of two transcendental equations is formulated with two targeted functions to control the fundamental component and cancel the stipulated single harmonic order. The proposed solution uses a simple classical proportional control with two loops to generate two switching angles. The first switching angle is assigned with an initial value, whereas the second one is calculated from the inner loop. The outer loop is used to cancel the specified harmonic by sending the error signal to the proposed proportional control that tunes the switching angles. The proposed algorithm is easy, fast, and accurate, and has a wide-range solution in terms of modulation index (MI ) and input DC source ratio (x=V1V2≤1). The proposed algorithm is tested for a wide range of MI and x to verify its feasibility. Moreover, several simulation and laboratory tests are presented to further validate the applicability of the proposed approach.
Novel Improved Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Control of Inverter and Supervisory Energy Management System of a Microgrid
Authors: Kamal Tariq , Karabacak Murat , Perić Vedran S. , Hassan Syed Zulqadar , Fernández-Ramírez Luis M.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, energy management and control of a microgrid is developed through supervisor and adaptive neuro-fuzzy wavelet-based control controllers considering real weather patterns and load variations. The supervisory control is applied to the entire microgrid using lower–top level arrangements. The top-level generates the control signals considering the weather data patterns and load conditions, while the lower level controls the energy sources and power converters. The adaptive neuro-fuzzy wavelet-based controller is applied to the inverter. The new proposed wavelet-based controller improves the operation of the proposed microgrid as a result of the excellent localized characteristics of the wavelets. Simulations and comparison with other existing intelligent controllers, such as neuro-fuzzy controllers and fuzzy logic controllers, and classical PID controllers are used to present the improvements of the microgrid in terms of the power transfer, inverter output efficiency, load voltage frequency, and dynamic response.
Numerical Computations of Vortex Formation Length in Flow Past an Elliptical Cylinder
Authors: Karlson Matthew , Nita Bogdan G. , Vaidya Ashwin
Published: September 2020

We examine two dimensional properties of vortex shedding past elliptical cylinders through numerical simulations. Specifically, we investigate the vortex formation length in the Reynolds number regime 10 to 100 for elliptical bodies of aspect ratio in the range 0.4 to 1.4. Our computations reveal that in the steady flow regime, the change in the vortex length follows a linear profile with respect to the Reynolds number, while in the unsteady regime, the time averaged vortex length decreases in an exponential manner with increasing Reynolds number. The transition in profile is used to identify the critical Reynolds number which marks the bifurcation of the Karman vortex from steady symmetric to the unsteady, asymmetric configuration. Additionally, relationships between the vortex length and aspect ratio are also explored. The work presented here is an example of a module that can be used in a project based learning course on computational fluid dynamics.
Machine Learning-Based Activity Pattern Classification Using Personal PM2.5 Exposure Information
Authors: Park JinSoo , Kim Sungroul
Published: September 2020

The activity pattern is a significant factor in identifying hotspots of personal exposure to air pollutants, such as PM2.5. However, the recording process of an activity pattern can be annoying to study participants, because they are often asked to bring a diary or a tracking recorder to write or validate their activity patterns when they change their activity profiles. Furthermore, the accuracy of the records of activity patterns can be lower, because people can mistakenly record them. Thus, this paper proposes an idea to overcome these problems and make the whole data-collection process easier and more reliable. Our idea was based on transforming training data using the statistical properties of the children’s personal exposure level to PM2.5, temperature, and relative humidity and applying the properties to a decision tree algorithm for classification of activity patterns. From our final machine-learning modeling processes, we observed that the accuracy for activity-pattern classification was more than 90% in both the training and test data. We believe that our methodology can be used effectively in data-collection tasks and alleviate the annoyance that study participants may feel.
Gender and Exercise in Relation to Obesity in Greek Elderly Population
Authors: Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Papandreou Dimitrios , Tassoulas Elias , Biskanaki Fani , Kalogiannis Stavros , Hassapidou Maria N.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity is increasing in older adults (>65 years) and older. Sarcopenic obesity is also related to reduced muscle synthesis, due to low physical activity levels. The purpose of the present study is to investigate possible risk factors, and effects of habitual activity status on different types of obesity in an elderly population. Methods: One hundred and two (n = 102) free living participants, aged >60 years, were randomly selected from Rehabilitation Centers for the Elderly in Thessaloniki and from municipal gymnasiums of Thessaloniki, Greece with a mean age of 68.11 ± 6.40 years. The response rate of the participants was 51%. For the purpose of this study, all the participants selected were healthy and did not receive any medication. Specifically, 46 subjects (19 men and 27 women) were members of Rehabilitation Centers for the Elderly in Thessaloniki, while 56 individuals (31 men and 25 women were members of the municipal gymnasiums of Thessaloniki and exercised 2 to 3 times per week). Anthropometric measurements were taken for all subjects. Body composition was assessed with bioelectrical impedance. Body Mass Index (BMI) was categorized according to the World Health Organization (WHO) (2000) standards. Central obesity was defined as a waist circumference of >102 cm in men and >88 cm in women. All participants completed a specific questionnaire regarding their health status, physical activity and previous weight status. Risk of sarcopenic obesity was diagnosed in the participants with co-existing sarcopenia and obesity resulting in high fat mass concurrent with low lean body mass. Results: Women had more than double risk of developing abdominal obesity (OR:2.133, 95% CI: 0.963–4.725) compared to men. More specifically, 69.6% of the elders who did not exercise regularly had central obesity (men: 52.6% and women: 81.5%), while 38.2% of the exercised elders (men: 36.7% and women: 40%) had central obesity. Sedentary elders demonstrated an increased risk of obesity according to body fat (%BF) (OR: 1.259, 95% CI: 0.576–2.750), double the risk of obesity according to body mass (OR: 2.074, 95% CI: 0.765–5.622), and triple the risk of having central obesity (OR: 3.701, 95% CI: 1.612–8.494) compared to those who exercised. Conclusion Exercise appears to have a protective role against all modes of obesity and thus possibly against obesity-related co-morbidities in the elderly.
Risk Early Warning of Food Quality Safety in Meat Processing Industry
Authors: Xiong Yifan , Li Wei , Liu Tiezhong
Published: September 2020

In recent years, people’s demand for meat products has increased, but the occurrence of meat food quality and safety problems has also caused irreparable losses to the safety of human lives and properties, and enterprises have lost their reputation. Since the frequent occurrence of food quality and safety incidents is the result of the lack of an early warning mechanism, a large number of problematic foods flow into the market. In order to prevent the occurrence of food quality and safety incidents and control food quality from the source, this article first refers to the results of EFSA’s Emerging Risks Project (EMRISK) and the food safety early warning framework of Kleter and Marvin, combined with the existing meat processing companies. Some quality control systems have put forward an early warning indicator system that includes the external environment of the enterprise, internal risks, and consumers’ concerns. Then, by issuing 500 questionnaires and interviewing 25 experts, 912 pieces of data were collected and a Monte Carlo simulation early warning model was established. Using case studies, taking Shandong Delis Co., Ltd. (Binzhou, China, hereinafter referred to as DLS) as an example, through sensitivity analysis and program analysis, the company’s food risk status and early warning model was evaluated. The results show that the risk of rising consumers’ concerns about counterfeiting and inferior products has the greatest impact on food quality and safety risks, followed by policy adjustment risks, and the risk of raw material sources ranked third. A total of six important risk warning indicators have been extracted, and these six need to be strictly controlled to control the overall risk. The research provides support for companies to formulate food quality monitoring, early warning and management strategies from a macro perspective, and control key early warning indicators in food quality and safety to reduce risks.
Mapping Heat-Related Risks in Northern Jiangxi Province of China Based on Two Spatial Assessment Frameworks Approaches
Authors: Zheng Minxuan , Zhang Jiahua , Shi Lamei , Zhang Da , Pangali Sharma Til Prasad , Prodhan Foyez Ahmed
Published: September 2020

Heat-health risk is a growing concern in many regions of China due to the more frequent occurrence of extremely hot weather. Spatial indexes based on various heat assessment frameworks can be used for the assessment of heat risks. In this study, we adopted two approaches—Crichton’s risk triangle and heat vulnerability index (HVI) to identify heat-health risks in the Northern Jiangxi Province of China, by using remote sensing and socio-economic data. The Geographical Information System (GIS) overlay and principal component analysis (PCA) were separately used in two frameworks to integrate parameters. The results show that the most densely populated community in the suburbs, instead of city centers, are exposed to the highest heat risk. A comparison of two heat assessment mapping indicates that the distribution of HVI highlights the vulnerability differences between census tracts. In contrast, the heat risk index of Crichton’s risk triangle has a prominent representation for regions with high risks. The stepwise multiple linear regression zero-order correlation coefficient between HVI and outdoor workers is 0.715, highlighting the vulnerability of this particular group. Spearman’s rho nonparametric correlation and the mean test reveals that heat risk index is strongly correlated with HVI in most of the main urban regions in the study area, with a significantly lower value than the latter. The analysis of variance shows that the distribution of HVI exhibits greater variety across urban regions than that of heat risk index. Our research provides new insight into heat risk assessment for further study of heat health risk in developing countries.
Determinants of Occupational Safety Culture in Hospitals and other Workplaces—Results from an Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Wagner Anke , Schöne Ladina , Rieger Monika A.
Published: September 2020

Background: The aim of the present study was to obtain an overview of occupational safety culture by assessing and mapping determinants in different workplaces (hospital workplaces and workplaces in construction, manufacturing, and other industry sectors) using an already established theoretical framework with seven clusters developed by Cornelissen and colleagues. We further derived implications for further research on determinants of occupational safety culture for the hospital workplace by comparing the hospital workplace with other workplaces. Methods: We conducted an integrative literature review and searched systematically for studies in four research databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PsycINFO). The search was undertaken in 2019, and updated in April 2020. Results of the included studies were analyzed and mapped to the seven clusters proposed by Cornelissen and colleagues. Results: After screening 5566 hits, 44 studies were included. Among these, 17 studies were conducted in hospital workplaces and 27 were performed in other workplaces. We identified various determinants of an occupational safety culture. Most studies in hospital and other workplaces included determinants referring to management and colleagues, to workplace characteristics and circumstances, and to employee characteristics. Only few determinants in the studies referred to other factors such as socio-economic factors or to content relating to climate and culture. Conclusions: The theoretical framework used was helpful in classifying various determinants from studies at different workplaces. By comparing and contrasting results of studies investigating determinants at the hospital workplace with those addressing other workplaces, it was possible to derive implications for further research, especially for the hospital sector. To date, many determinants for occupational safety culture known from workplaces outside of the healthcare system have not been addressed in studies covering hospital workplaces. For further studies in the hospital workplace, it may be promising to address determinants that have been less studied so far to gain a more comprehensive picture of important determinants of an occupational safety culture in the hospital sector.
Physical Activity Changes and Its Risk Factors among Community-Dwelling Japanese Older Adults during the COVID-19 Epidemic: Associations with Subjective Well-Being and Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Suzuki Yuta , Maeda Noriaki , Hirado Daigo , Shirakawa Taizan , Urabe Yukio
Published: September 2020

Psychological distress caused by decreased physical activity (PA) is a growing concern among the elderly due to public health measures since the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We aimed to (1) assess how public health restrictions impact PA, subjective well-being (SWB), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of community-dwelling elderly, and (2) investigate risk factors that lead to a decline in PA. Self-administered questionnaires assessed the changes in PA, SWB, HRQoL. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant associated risk factors for decreased PA. Of 165 participants (valid response rate, 41.3%; mean age, 78.5 ± 8.0 years), 47.3% became less active, 23.0% became more active, and 29.7% maintained PA levels. There was a significant decrease in SWB at baseline and follow-up after COVID-19 restrictions in the less active group (p < 0.01). Higher levels of moderate or strenuous exercise/sports activity at baseline (odds ratio [OR], 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.24), and lower mental component HRQoL scores at baseline (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93–0.99) were associated with an increased risk of decreased PA. Public health restrictions impact the PA of the elderly, especially those who had higher levels of exercise/sports activity and lower HRQoL before COVID-19. Decreased PA was strongly associated with lower SWB.
Hedonic and Utilitarian Performances as Determinants of Mental Health and Pro-Social Behaviors among Volunteer Tourists
Authors: Han Heesup , Meng Bo , Chua Bee-Lia , Ryu Hyungseo Bobby
Published: September 2020

International volunteer tourism is an emerging and sustainable trend of the global tourism industry. In this study, we attempted to provide a clear comprehension of volunteer tourists’ mental health increase and pro-social intention formation. A survey method and quantitative approach were used. Our result from the structural analysis showed that hedonic and utilitarian performances, mental health, and volunteer tourism engagement had significant associations and that these relationships contributed to improving pro-social intention. In addition, results from the metric invariance assessment revealed that the volunteer tourism engagement and pro-social intention relation was under the significant influence of problem awareness and ascribed responsibility. Mental health and engagement acted as significant mediators. The comparative importance of volunteer tourism engagement was uncovered. Overall, our results provided a sufficient understanding of volunteer tourists’ pro-social decision-making process and behaviors.
The Impact of Public Health Insurance on Household Credit Availability in Rural China: Evidence from NRCMS
Authors: Yang Qing , Xu Qing , Lu Yufeng , Liu Jin
Published: September 2020

A large body of literature has shown that the burden of healthcare can push individuals and households into the burden of medical care and income loss. This makes it difficult for rural or low-income households to obtain and use safe and affordable formal credit services. In 2003, China’s government implemented a new rural public health insurance, which was called the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (NRCMS). This study provides evidence of the impact of NRCMS on household credit availability using the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) for 2010. The tobit regression approach and mediator model are used. The results show that, as a public health insurance system sustained by the participation of government investment, the NRCMS provides good “collateral” and significantly enhances rural households’ formal credit availability level. Furthermore, this positive effect is mainly reflected in the economic effect of NRCMS. Our results are robust to alternative statistical methods. Our findings suggest that expanding access, fulfilling the NRCMS mortgage function, and providing more financial services for rural households would have big benefits with regard to easing credit constraints for rural residents.
The Impact of Family Life and Marital Status on the Motivations of Ultramarathoners: The Karkonosze Winter Ultramarathon Case Study
Authors: Malchrowicz-Mośko Ewa , Waśkiewicz Zbigniew
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate how family life and marital status influence the motivations of ultramarathoners. Two-hundred-sixty-seven Polish athletes participated in the diagnostic survey during the Karkonosze Winter Ultramarathon. The Polish version of the Motivation of Marathoner Scale was used. The motivations of ultra-runners were investigated among the following groups of respondents: people in a relationship/marriage; singles; people with children vs. childless people; people who run alone and with a partner; people who parted with a partner because of lack of support for running. Research results can be useful for sport managers–e.g., findings show the relative importance of modern sport for singles in the second half of life. Research has also shown how people in relationships and people with children can be realized through demanding long-distance running. We also found that running ultramarathons can pose a threat to a relationship.
The Impact of Overweight and Obesity on Plantar Pressure in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Catan Liliana , Amaricai Elena , Onofrei Roxana Ramona , Popoiu Calin Marius , Iacob Emil Radu , Stanciulescu Corina Maria , Cerbu Simona , Horhat Delia Ioana , Suciu Oana
Published: September 2020

We aimed to synthesise the results of previous studies addressing the impact of overweight and obesity on plantar pressure in children and adolescents. An electronic search of scientific literature was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus database, with keywords: “plantar pressure” AND “children” AND “obesity”; “plantar pressure” AND “adolescents” AND “obesity”, “plantar pressure” AND “children” AND “overweight”, “plantar pressure” AND “adolescents” AND “overweight”. Twenty-two articles were included in the review and the following data were recorded: authors, publication year, type of technology (systems, software) for the determination of plantar pressure, study characteristics. Most of the articles used dynamic plantar pressure determination with only four using static plantar pressure measurement. Using ultrasonography with static plantar pressure determination, the correlation between structural and functional changes in the feet of obese children. In overweight and obese children and adolescents, important findings were recorded: higher contact area, increased maximum force beneath the lateral and medial forefoot, increased pressure–time integral beneath the midfoot and 2nd–5th metatarsal regions. Significantly increased foot axis angle and significantly flatter feet were observed in obese subjects in comparison to their normal-weight counterparts. The obese children presented increased midfoot fat pad thickness, with decreased sensitivity of the whole foot and midfoot.
Children with Obesity Experience Different Age-Related Changes in Plantar Pressure Distributions: A Follow-Up Study in China
Authors: Zhao Yihong , Zheng Debin , Yan Shiyang , Liu Mengyuan , Yang Luming
Published: September 2020

Age is a key factor in plantar pressure distributions during the development of obese children. However, the existing evidence for age-related plantar pressures of obese children is not sufficient to make clear how the plantar pressures would change with the increasing age. This study aimed to evaluate the plantar pressure redistributions of obese children after a three-year follow-up and to further compare these changes with normal-weighted children. Ten obese children and eleven normal-weighted counterparts were involved in this study. Plantar pressure measurements were undertaken using a Footscan® plantar pressure plate on two test sessions three years apart. Peak pressure, pressure-time integral, standard maximum force, and z-scores of these variables were analyzed. Loading transference analyses were applied to detect the different loading transferring mechanisms between obese and normal-weighted children. Significantly increased plantar pressures were observed at the lateral forefoot and midfoot for obese children, which gradually deviated from those of normal-weighted children over the 3 years. With the increasing age, obese children displayed a lateral loading shift at the forefoot in contrast to the normal-weighted. Early interventions are cautiously recommended for obese children before the plantar loading deviation gets worse as they grow older.
Gene Expression Changes in the Ventral Tegmental Area of Male Mice with Alternative Social Behavior Experience in Chronic Agonistic Interactions
Authors: Redina Olga , Babenko Vladimir , Smagin Dmitry , Kovalenko Irina , Galyamina Anna , Efimov Vadim , Kudryavtseva Natalia
Published: September 2020

Daily agonistic interactions of mice are an effective experimental approach to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the excitation of the brain neurons and the formation of alternative social behavior patterns. An RNA-Seq analysis was used to compare the ventral tegmental area (VTA) transcriptome profiles for three groups of male C57BL/6J mice: winners, a group of chronically winning mice, losers, a group of chronically defeated mice, and controls. The data obtained show that both winners and defeated mice experience stress, which however, has a more drastic effect on defeated animals causing more significant changes in the levels of gene transcription. Four genes (Nrgn, Ercc2, Otx2, and Six3) changed their VTA expression profiles in opposite directions in winners and defeated mice. It was first shown that Nrgn (neurogranin) expression was highly correlated with the expression of the genes involved in dopamine synthesis and transport (Th, Ddc, Slc6a3, and Drd2) in the VTA of defeated mice but not in winners. The obtained network of 31 coregulated genes, encoding proteins associated with nervous system development (including 24 genes associated with the generation of neurons), may be potentially useful for studying their role in the VTA dopaminergic neurons maturation under the influence of social stress.
Role of Innate Immune Cells in Psoriasis
Authors: Sato Yuki , Ogawa Eisaku , Okuyama Ryuhei
Published: September 2020

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Its development is closely related to the adaptive immune response. T helper 17 cells are major IL-17-producing cells, a function that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. However, recent findings have demonstrated that innate immune cells also contribute to the development of psoriasis. Innate lymphoid cells, γδ T cells, natural killer T cells, and natural killer cells are activated in psoriasis, contributing to disease pathology through IL-17-dependent and -independent mechanisms. The present review provides an overview of recent findings, demonstrating a role for innate immunity in psoriasis.
Metabolism Regulation and Redox State: Insight into the Role of Superoxide Dismutase 1
Authors: Damiano Simona , Sozio Concetta , La Rosa Giuliana , Guida Bruna , Faraonio Raffaella , Santillo Mariarosaria , Mondola Paolo
Published: September 2020

Energy metabolism and redox state are strictly linked; energy metabolism is a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that, in turn, regulate the flux of metabolic pathways. Moreover, to assure redox homeostasis, metabolic pathways and antioxidant systems are often coordinately regulated. Several findings show that superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) enzyme has effects that go beyond its superoxide dismutase activity and that its functions are not limited to the intracellular compartment. Indeed, SOD1 is secreted through unconventional secretory pathways, carries out paracrine functions and circulates in the blood bound to lipoproteins. Striking experimental evidence links SOD1 to the redox regulation of metabolism. Important clues are provided by the systemic effects on energy metabolism observed in mutant SOD1-mediated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The purpose of this review is to analyze in detail the involvement of SOD1 in redox regulation of metabolism, nutrient sensing, cholesterol metabolism and regulation of mitochondrial respiration. The scientific literature on the relationship between ALS, mutated SOD1 and metabolism will also be explored, in order to highlight the metabolic functions of SOD1 whose biological role still presents numerous unexplored aspects that deserve further investigation.
Identification of the SUT Gene Family in Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and Functional Analysis of PgL0145810.1
Authors: Poudel Krishna , Luo Xiang , Chen Lina , Jing Dan , Xia Xiaocong , Tang Liying , Li Haoxian , Cao Shangyin
Published: September 2020

Sucrose, an important sugar, is transported from source to sink tissues through the phloem, and plays important role in the development of important traits in plants. However, the SUT gene family is still not well characterized in pomegranate. In this study, we first identified the pomegranate sucrose transporter (SUT) gene family from the whole genome. Then, the phylogenetic relationship of SUT genes, gene structure and their promoters were analyzed. Additionally, their expression patterns were detected during the development of the seed. Lastly, genetic transformation and cytological observation were used to study the function of PgL0145810.1. A total of ten pomegranate SUT genes were identified from the whole genome of pomegranate ‘Tunisia’. The promoter region of all the pomegranate SUT genes contained myeloblastosis (MYB) elements. Four of the SUT genes, PgL0328370.1, PgL0099690.1, PgL0145810.1 and PgL0145770.1, were differentially expressed during seed development. We further noticed that PgL0145810.1 was expressed most prominently in the stem parts in transgenic plants compared to other tissue parts (leaves, flowers and silique). The cells in the xylem vessels were small and lignin content was lower in the transgenic plants as compared to wild Arabidopsis plants. In general, our result suggests that the MYB cis-elements in the promoter region might regulate PgL0145810.1 expression to control the structure of xylem, thereby affecting seed hardness in pomegranate.
Dengue Virus Infection of Aedes aegypti Alters Extracellular Vesicle Protein Cargo to Enhance Virus Transmission
Authors: Gold Alexander S. , Feitosa-Suntheimer Fabiana , Araujo Ricardo V. , Hekman Ryan M. , Asad Sultan , Londono-Renteria Berlin , Emili Andrew , Colpitts Tonya M.
Published: September 2020

Dengue is the most burdensome vector-borne viral disease in the world. Dengue virus (DENV), the etiological cause of dengue, is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Like any arbovirus, the transmission cycle of dengue involves the complex interactions of a multitude of human and mosquito factors. One point during this transmission cycle that is rich in these interactions is the biting event by the mosquito, upon which its saliva is injected into the host. A number of components in mosquito saliva have been shown to play a pivotal role in the transmission of dengue, however one such component that is not as well characterized is extracellular vesicles. Here, using high-performance liquid chromatography in tandem with mass spectrometry, we show that dengue infection altered the protein cargo of Aedes aegypti extracellular vesicles, resulting in the packaging of proteins with infection-enhancing ability. Our results support the presence of an infection-dependent pro-viral protein packaging strategy that uses the differential packaging of pro-viral proteins in extracellular vesicles of Ae. aegypti saliva to promote transmission. These studies represent the first investigation into the function of Ae. aegypti extracellular vesicle cargo during dengue infection.
The Impact of Genetic Polymorphisms in Organic Cation Transporters on Renal Drug Disposition
Authors: Zazuli Zulfan , Duin Naut J. C. B. , Jansen Katja , Vijverberg Susanne J. H. , Maitland-van der Zee Anke H. , Masereeuw Rosalinde
Published: September 2020

A considerable number of drugs and/or their metabolites are excreted by the kidneys through glomerular filtration and active renal tubule secretion via transporter proteins. Uptake transporters in the proximal tubule are part of the solute carrier (SLC) superfamily, and include the organic cation transporters (OCTs). Several studies have shown that specific genetic polymorphisms in OCTs alter drug disposition and may lead to nephrotoxicity. Multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported for the OCT genes (SLC22A1, SLC22A2 and SLC22A3), which can influence the proteins’ structure and expression levels and affect their transport function. A gain-in-function mutation may lead to accumulation of drugs in renal proximal tubule cells, eventually leading to nephrotoxicity. This review illustrates the impact of genetic polymorphisms in OCTs on renal drug disposition and kidney injury, the clinical significances and how to personalize therapies to minimize the risk of drug toxicity.
Both Amyloid-β Peptide and Tau Protein Are Affected by an Anti-Amyloid-β Antibody Fragment in Elderly 3xTg-AD Mice
Authors: Roda Alejandro R. , Montoliu-Gaya Laia , Serra-Mir Gabriel , Villegas Sandra
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common dementia worldwide. According to the amyloid hypothesis, the early accumulation of the Aβ-peptide triggers tau phosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction, and eventually neuronal death leading to cognitive impairment, as well as behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. ScFv-h3D6 is a single-chain variable fragment that has already shown its ability to diminish the amyloid burden in 5-month-old 3xTg-AD mice. However, tau pathology is not evident at this early stage of the disease in this mouse model. In this study, the effects of scFv-h3D6 on Aβ and tau pathologies have been assessed in 22-month-old 3xTg-AD mice. Briefly, 3xTg-AD female mice were treated for 2 weeks with scFv-h3D6 and compared with 3xTg-AD and non-transgenic (NTg) mice treated with PBS. The treatment with scFv-h3D6 was unequivocally effective in reducing the area of Aβ staining. Furthermore, a tendency for a reduction in tau levels was also observed after treatment that points to the interplay between Aβ and tau pathologies. The pro-inflammatory state observed in the 3xTg-AD mice did not progress after scFv-h3D6 treatment. In addition, the treatment did not alter the levels of apolipoprotein E or apolipoprotein J. Thus, a 2-week treatment with scFv-h3D6 was able to reduce AD-like pathology in elderly 3xTg-AD female mice.
TGF-β Activity Related to the Use of Collagen Membranes: In Vitro Bioassays
Authors: Panahipour Layla , Kargarpour Zahra , Luza Bernadette , Lee Jung-Seok , Gruber Reinhard
Published: September 2020

Collagen membranes commonly used in guided bone regeneration are supposed to actively influence tissue regeneration and are not exclusively serving as passive barriers shielding away the soft tissue. The molecular mechanisms by which collagen membranes might affect tissue regeneration might involve the activation of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways. Here, we determined the TGF-β activity of supernatants and proteolytic lysates of five commercially available collagen membranes. The expression of TGF-β target genes interleukin 11 (IL11), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), and proteoglycan 4 (PRG4) was evaluated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and IL11 immunoassay in gingival fibroblasts. TGF-β signaling activation was further assessed by blocking the TGF-β receptor I kinase, a TGF-β neutralizing antibody, and showing the nuclear localization of phosphorylated Smad3 and total Smad2/3. We could identify two collagen membranes whose supernatants and lysates caused a robust increase of TGF-β receptor I kinase-dependent expression of IL11 in gingival fibroblasts. Moreover, the supernatant of a particular one membrane caused the nuclear localization of phosphorylated Smad3 and Smad2/3 in the fibroblasts. These results strengthen the evidence that some collagen membranes possess an intrinsic TGF-β activity that might actively influence the process of guided bone regeneration.
Conservation Wildflower Plantings Do Not Enhance On-Farm Abundance of Amblyomma americanum (Ixodida: Ixodidae)
Authors: McCullough Christopher , Angelella Gina , O’Rourke Megan
Published: September 2020

Planting wildflowers is a commonly suggested measure to conserve pollinators. While beneficial for pollinators, plots of wildflowers may be inadvertently performing an ecosystem disservice by providing a suitable habitat for arthropod disease vectors like ticks. The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.), is a medically important tick species that might be able to utilize wildflower plantings as a suitable habitat. In this two-year study, ticks were sampled using dry ice baited traps from wildflower plots, weedy field margins, and forested areas to determine if wildflower plantings were increasing the on-farm abundance of A. americanum. Abiotic and biotic environmental variables were also measured to better understand which factors affect A. americanum abundance. We found no more A. americanum in wildflower plots than in weedy field margins. Forested areas harbored the greatest number of A. americanum sampled. The height of the vegetation in the sampled habitats was a significant factor in determining A. americanum abundance. Depending on the sampled habitat and life stage, this relationship can be positive or negative. The relationship with vegetation height may be related to the behavior of the white-tailed deer and the questing success of A. americanum. Overall, wildflower plots do not pose an increased risk of exposure to A. americanum on farms.
Simultaneous Exposure of Cultured Human Lymphoblastic Cells to Simulated Microgravity and Radiation Increases Chromosome Aberrations
Authors: Yamanouchi Sakuya , Rhone Jordan , Mao Jian-Hua , Fujiwara Keigi , Saganti Premkumar B. , Takahashi Akihisa , Hada Megumi
Published: September 2020

During space travel, humans are continuously exposed to two major environmental stresses, microgravity (μG) and space radiation. One of the fundamental questions is whether the two stressors are interactive. For over half a century, many studies were carried out in space, as well as using devices that simulated μG on the ground to investigate gravity effects on cells and organisms, and we have gained insights into how living organisms respond to μG. However, our knowledge on how to assess and manage human health risks in long-term mission to the Moon or Mars is drastically limited. For example, little information is available on how cells respond to simultaneous exposure to space radiation and μG. In this study, we analyzed the frequencies of chromosome aberrations (CA) in cultured human lymphoblastic TK6 cells exposed to X-ray or carbon ion under the simulated μG conditions. A higher frequency of both simple and complex types of CA were observed in cells exposed to radiation and μG simultaneously compared to CA frequency in cells exposed to radiation only. Our study shows that the dose response data on space radiation obtained at the 1G condition could lead to the underestimation of astronauts’ potential risk for health deterioration, including cancer. This study also emphasizes the importance of obtaining data on the molecular and cellular responses to irradiation under μG conditions.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Intercritically Treated Grade 91 Steel
Authors: Wang Yiyu , Zhang Wei , Lim Yong Chae , Wang Yanli , Feng Zhili
Published: September 2020

Premature creep failures at the intercritical heat affected zone (ICHAZ) of creep-resistant steel weldments have been frequently reported. However, the creep degradation mechanism of different microstructure constituents in ICHAZ is complicated and needs further clarification. In this work, Grade 91 steel was intercritically heat-treated at a temperature (860 °C) between the critical temperatures AC1 and AC3, and a correlation between microstructure and mechanical properties of the heat-treated specimen was built. The effects of austenitization and tempering resulting from the intercritical treatment (IT) differentiated the local strain energies between the two microstructure constituents: newly transformed martensite (NTM) and over-tempered martensite (OTM). The formation of NTM grains led to a hardness increase from 247 HV0.5 in the base metal to 332 HV0.5 in the IT specimen. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) increased from 739 MPa in the base metal to 1054 MPa in the IT specimen. Extensive growth of the OTM grains and rapid recovery of NTM grains took place simultaneously in the IT specimen during a typical tempering at 760 °C. These microstructure degradations led to a lowered hardness of 178 HV0.5, a reduced UTS of 596 MPa, and a poor creep resistance with a minimum creep strain rate of 0.49 %/h at 650 °C in an IT + tempering (ITT) specimen.