bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steganalysis of Adaptive Multi-Rate Speech Based on Extreme Gradient Boosting
Authors: Sun Congcong , Tian Hui , Chang Chin-Chen , Chen Yewang , Cai Yiqiao , Du Yongqian , Chen Yong-Hong , Chen Chih Cheng
Published: March 2020

Steganalysis of adaptive multi-rate (AMR) speech is a hot topic for controlling cybercrimes grounded in steganography in related speech streams. In this paper, we first present a novel AMR steganalysis model, which utilizes extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) as the classifier, instead of support vector machines (SVM) adopted in the previous schemes. Compared with the SVM-based model, this new model can facilitate the excavation of potential information from the high-dimensional features and can avoid overfitting. Moreover, to further strengthen the preceding features based on the statistical characteristics of pulse pairs, we present the convergence feature based on the Markov chain to reflect the global characterization of pulse pairs, which is essentially the final state of the Markov transition matrix. Combining the convergence feature with the preceding features, we propose an XGBoost-based steganalysis scheme for AMR speech streams. Finally, we conducted a series of experiments to assess our presented scheme and compared it with previous schemes. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme is feasible, and can provide better performance in terms of detecting the existing steganography methods based on AMR speech streams.
Photovoltaic Lithium-ion Battery with Layer-Structured Li2MnIII0.2MnIV0.8O2.9 Thin Film Chemically Fabricated for Cathodic Active Material
Authors: Suwazono Yutaka , Nagai Hiroki , Sato Mitsunobu
Published: March 2020

Dilithium manganese oxide (LMO) thin film was newly fabricated as an active material on a fluorinated-tin-oxide pre-coated glass electrode by a wet process. A stable LMO precursor solution was developed through the reaction of lithium and manganese acetates with butylamine in ethanol. A spin-coated precursor film was heat-treated at 500 °C in air for 0.5 h. The X-ray diffraction pattern indicates that the resultant film consists of layer-structured LMO crystals. The X-ray photoelectron spectra of LMO thin film suggests that the ratio of Mn3+/Mn4+ is 1/4, and the chemical formula can be expressed as Li2MnO2.9. A device was assembled with O-deficient LMO and TiO2 thin films as each active material, along with an electrolytic solution involving LiPF6. The charging voltages (2.67 and 1.45 V) of this device were recorded by applying a constant current of 0.2 mA and using 1-sun irradiation with no external power supply, respectively. The voltages delivered by this cobalt-free device were 0.63 and 0.13 V higher, respectively, than the corresponding device assembled with lithium cobalt oxide as a cathodic active material.
Temperature Measurement Method of Flame Image Fusion with Different Exposures
Authors: Shan Liang , Huang Huiyun , Hong Bo , Zhao Jun , Wang Daodang , Kong Ming
Published: March 2020

Fixed exposure will lead to underexposure or overexposure of collected flame radiation images using CCD, which has a great influence on the temperature measuring accuracy. A temperature measurement method was proposed by image fusion with multi-exposure, which can eliminate the influence of insufficient underexposure and overexposure. The approach was first to acquire a group of flame radiation images during different exposures. Then a partial region with good exposure effect in each radiation image was obtained by segmentation, with which the complete flame image can be spliced together. An experimental system was built to calibrate the temperature measurement parameters by two-color pyrometry through a blackbody furnace. The relation between exposure time and monochromatic gray level, as well as the relation between the temperature and temperature measurement coefficient were obtained. A candle flame was selected as the measuring object and the complete and accurate flame temperature distribution was acquired following our proposed method. The experimental results show that, compared with the temperature measurement using a single exposure time, our method can effectively avoid the measurement error caused by underexposure and overexposure, and improve the measurement accuracy.
Impact of the Paleoclimate, Paleoenvironment, and Algae Bloom: Organic Matter Accumulation in the Lacustrine Lucaogou Formation of Jimsar Sag, Junggar Basin, NW China
Authors: Jiang Yuhan , Hou Dujie , Li Hang , Zhang Ziming , Guo Ruibo
Published: March 2020

Shale oil exploration has been a key area of onshore oil and gas exploration in China in recent years. In this study, organic geochemistry and element geochemistry are united to study the shale oil and source rock in the Lucaogou formation of Jimusar sag, in order to reveal the paleoclimate, paleoenvironment, source of organic matter, and factors affecting organic matter accumulation and shale oil generation. The shale oil in the study area is mainly accumulated in two strata with good reservoir properties and oiliness, known as the upper sweet spot and lower sweet spot. Indexes of biomarkers and sensitive elements revealed the warm and semi-arid paleoclimate during Lucaogou formation, and the water column was brackish to salty. Water stratification caused a suboxic to anoxic environment in the deep-water column and coincided with the anoxic photic zone phenomenon. Compared with the lower sweet spot, the more humid climate, deeper and fresher water, and stronger water stratification characterize the upper sweet spot during sedimentation. This made the photic zone with freshwater more suitable for the reproduction of algae in the upper sweet spot. Meanwhile, the organic matter was well-preserved in the anoxic zone. Volcanic ash caused algae bloom, which promoted primary productivity and ensured the supply of organic matter. The composition and distribution pattern of biomarkers prove that phytoplankton is the most important source of organic matter in the study area and the contribution of higher plants is insignificant. The relationship between parameters of paleoproductivity and the redox condition versus total organic carbon (TOC) suggests that compared with the preservation conditions, the input of organic carbon is the most important controlling factor of organic matter accumulation in the study area.
A Study of Temperature-Dependent Hysteresis Curves for a Magnetocaloric Composite Based on La(Fe, Mn, Si)13-H Type Alloys
Authors: Gozdur Roman , Gębara Piotr , Chwastek Krzysztof
Published: March 2020

In the present paper, the effect of temperature on the shape of magnetic hysteresis loops for a magnetocaloric composite core was studied. The composite core, based on La(Fe, Mn, Si)13-H, was set up using three component disks with different Curie temperatures. The magnetic properties of the components and the outcome composite core were determined using a self-developed measurement setup. For the description of hysteresis loops, the phenomenological T(x) model was used. The presented methodology might be useful for the designers of magnetic active regenerators.
Energy Value of Yield and Biomass Quality of Poplar Grown in Two Consecutive 4-Year Harvest Rotations in the North-East of Poland
Authors: Stolarski Mariusz Jerzy , Warmiński Kazimierz , Krzyżaniak Michał
Published: March 2020

Bioenergy accounts for 61.7% of all renewable energy sources, with solid fuels accounting for 43% of this amount. Poplar plantations can deliver woody biomass for energy purposes. A field experiment with poplar was located in the north-east of Poland on good quality soil formed from medium loam. The study aimed to determine the yield, the energy value of the yield and the thermophysical properties and elemental composition of the biomass of four poplar clones harvested in two consecutive 4-year harvest rotations. The highest biomass energy value was determined in the UWM 2 clone in the second harvest rotation (231 GJ ha−1·year−1). This value was 27–47% lower for the other clones. The biomass quality showed that poplar wood contained high levels of moisture and low levels of ash, sulphur, nitrogen and chlorine. This indicates that poplar can be grown in the north-east of Poland and that it gives a yield with a high energy value and beneficial biomass properties from the energy generation perspective.
A Conductance-Based MPPT Method with Reduced Impact of the Voltage Ripple for One-Phase Solar Powered Vehicle or Aircraft Systems
Authors: Binkowski Tomasz
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a novel maximum power point tracking method for photovoltaic inverters with a single phase connection to the onboard 400Hz vehicle or aircraft grid, supplying drives operating in a critical mode. By taking into account that the power fluctuations cause voltage ripples at the termini of photovoltaic panels connected to the DC-link capacitor, this paper proposes a conductance base maximum power point tracking method. The impact of varying voltage has been reduced to ensure the constant reference current for the grid current calculation problem, which has been reported in previous studies. Accordingly, a conductance base tracking method, grid current control, is proposed and implemented to ensure the expected output current with respect to varying power. As described in this paper, the exemplified solar converter prototype can implement constant reference photovoltaic current control with a maximum power point achievement under continuous voltage rippling. Experimental results are given to verify the feasibility of the proposed MPPT method, which significantly improves the power efficiency for solar powered vehicles or aircraft.
A Novel Approach to Minimize Energy Requirements and Maximize Biomass Utilization of the Sugarcane Harvesting System in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyawansha Thilanka , Abeyrathna Dimuthu , Kulasekara Buddhika , Pottawela Devananda , Kodithuwakku Dinesh , Ariyawansha Sandya , Sewwandi Natasha , Bandara WBMAC , Ahamed Tofael , Noguchi Ryozo
Published: March 2020

Sugarcane harvesting requires a significant amount of energy and time to manage dry leaves after the harvesting process. Therefore, the objective of this study was to minimize the energy requirement to process the cane and dry leaves’ harvesting (CDLH) for sugarcane while, at the same time, maximizing sugar production from cane and energy from dry leaves in Sri Lanka. The CDLH was conceptualized using a novel approach to optimize sugarcane harvesting to maximize biomass supply for energy production while reducing supply chain sugar-loss. The CDLH was investigated for manual harvesting capacity, energy consumption, sugar loss, and biomass energy potential. It was observed that CDLH consumed higher energy compared to the present practices of harvesting. However, the energy used for fieldwork was reduced because of the shifting of cane chopping and cleaning from the field to the factory. Low bulk density of the harvested cane of the CDLH system had a higher energy requirement in transportation. Comparatively, CDLH showed higher biomass energy potential and less sugar loss. High energy potential increases the energy potential to consumption ratio compared to the existing method. Therefore, the theoretical evaluation showed that the CDLH system can produce more than 20 kg of sugar and 879 MJ of electricity when processing 1 t of sugarcane.
Analysis of Magnetic Field and Electromagnetic Performance of a New Hybrid Excitation Synchronous Motor with dual-V type Magnets
Authors: Hu Wenjing , Zhang Xueyi , Yin Hongbin , Geng Huihui , Zhang Yufeng , Shi Liwei
Published: March 2020

Due to the increasing energy crisis and environmental pollution, the development of drive motors for new energy vehicles (NEVs) has become the focus of popular attention. To improve the sine of the air-gap flux density and flux regulation capacity of drive motors, a new hybrid excitation synchronous motor (HESM) has been proposed. The HESM adopts a salient pole rotor with built-in dual-V permanent magnets (PMs), non-arc pole shoes and excitation windings. The fundamental topology, operating principle and analytical model for a magnetic field are presented. In the analytical model, the rotor magnetomotive force (MMF) is derived based on the minimum reluctance principle, and the permeance function considering a non-uniform air-gap is calculated using the magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) method. Besides, the electromagnetic performance including the air-gap magnetic field and flux regulation capacity is analyzed by the finite element method (FEM). The simulation results of the air-gap magnetic field are consistent with the analytical results. The experiment and simulation results of the performance show that the flux waveform is sinusoidal-shaped and the air-gap flux can be adjusted effectively by changing the excitation current. This study provides design methods and theoretical analysis references for this type of HESM.
Relative Contributions of Clouds and Aerosols to Surface Erythemal UV and Global Horizontal Irradiance in Korea
Authors: Kim Jaemin , Lee Yun Gon , Koo Ja-Ho , Lee Hanlim
Published: March 2020

The attenuating effects of clouds and aerosols on global horizontal irradiance (GHI) and ultraviolet erythemal irradiance (UVER) were evaluated and compared using data from four sites in South Korea (Gangneung, Pohang, Mokpo, and Gosan) for the period 2005–2016. It was found that GHI and UVER are affected differently by various attenuating factors, resulting in an increase in the ratio of UVER to GHI with a decrease in the clearness index of GHI. A comparative analysis of the clearness indices of GHI and UVER identified an almost linear relationship between two transmittances by applying UVER with fixed slant ozone ( UVER 300 ) and there was a latitudinal difference in the relationship. Some nonlinearity remained in this relationship, which suggests a contribution by other factors such as clouds and aerosols. Variations of the UVER 300 ratio to GHI with cloud cover and aerosol optical depth were analyzed. The ratio increased with cloud cover and decreased with aerosol optical depth, indicating that clouds attenuate GHI more efficiently than UVER and that the attenuation by aerosols is greater for UVER than for GHI. A multiple linear regression analysis of the clearness indices of GHI and UVER 300 quantitively demonstrates differences in the radiation-reducing effects of clouds and aerosols, with some regional differences by site that can be attributed to local climatic characteristics in South Korea.
Numerical Investigation of Vertical Crossflow Jets with Various Orifice Shapes Discharged in Rectangular Open Channel
Authors: Yuan Hao , Hu Ruichang , Xu Xiaoming , Chen Liang , Peng Yongqin , Tan Jiawan
Published: March 2020

Vertical jet in flowing water is a common phenomenon in daily life. To study the flow and turbulent characteristics of different jet orifice shapes and under different velocity ratios, the realizable k-ε turbulent model was adopted to analyze the three-dimensional (3D) flow, turbulence, and vortex characteristics using circular, square, and rectangular jet orifices and velocity ratios of 2, 5, 10, and 15. The following conclusions were drawn: The flow trajectory of the vertical jet in the channel exhibits remarkable 3D characteristics, and the jet orifice and velocity ratio have a significant influence on the flow characteristics of the channel. The heights at which the spiral deflection and maximum turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) occur for the circular jet are the smallest, while those for square jets are the largest. As the shape of the jet orifice changes from a circle to a square and then to a rectangle, the shape formed by the plane of the kidney vortices and the region above it gradually changes from a circle to a pentagon. With the increase in the velocity ratio, the 3D characteristics, maximum TKE, and kidney vortex coverage of the flow all gradually increase.
The Benefits of Local Cross-Sector Consumer Ownership Models for the Transition to a Renewable Smart Energy System in Denmark. An Exploratory Study
Authors: Gorroño-Albizu Leire
Published: March 2020

Smart energy systems (SESs), with integrated energy sectors, provide several advantages over single-sector approaches for the development of renewable energy systems. However, cross-sector integration is at an early stage even in areas challenged by the existing high shares of variable renewable energy (VRE). The promotion of cross-sector integration requires institutional incentives and new forms of actor participation and interaction that are suitable to address the organisational challenges of implementing and operating SESs. Taking as the point of departure an empirical case and its institutional context, this article presents an exploratory study of the ability of cross-sector consumer ownership at different locations in the power distribution system to address those challenges in Denmark. The methods comprise interviews of relevant stakeholders and a literature review. The results indicate that distant and local cross-sector integration will be necessary to reduce overinvestments in the grid and that consumer co-ownership of wind turbines and power-to-heat (P2H) units in district heating (DH) systems may provide advantages over common separate ownership with regard to local acceptance and attractiveness of investments. Several possibilities are identified to improve the current institutional incentive system in Denmark. Finally, the results suggest the relevance of analysing the possibility for single-sector energy companies to transition to smart energy companies.
The Impact of Reconfiguration on the Energy Performance of the Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking Approach in PV Plants
Authors: Balato Marco , Petrarca Carlo
Published: March 2020

The following two approaches can address the drawbacks associated with mismatching phenomena in photovoltaic (PV) plants: distributed maximum power point tracking (DMPPT) architecture and reconfigurable PV array architecture. Until now, these two approaches have represented alternative solutions. In this paper, for the first time, it is suggested that the two approaches can be used together. In particular, it will be shown how the joint adoption of the DMPPT and reconfiguration approaches can improve the performances of mismatched PV plants; here, performance is understood as the best compromise between the efficiency and reliability of the entire PV system. Numerical results confirm the above assumptions, providing the hints for the development of innovative reconfiguration techniques suitable for distributed applications.
Application of Paclobutrazol to Mitigate Environmental Stress of Urban Street Trees
Authors: Cregg Bert , Ellison-Smith Dana
Published: March 2020

Paclobutrazol is a tree growth regulator that is frequently applied by arborists to control tree growth in utility rights of way. Paclobutrazol is also marketed to mitigate tree stresses associated with urban environments. In this study we applied paclobutrazol as a soil drench to honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos L var. inermis (L.) Zab.) and Callery pear (Pyrus calleryiana Decne.) trees planted as street trees on two sites in Lansing, Michigan USA. We evaluated physiological and morphological responses for two years after treatment. Application of paclobutrazol increased SPAD chlorophyll index of trees of both species in both years, compared to untreated control trees. Application of paclobutrazol increased leaf water potential of trees on one study site (Downtown) but not the other (Old Town). Paclobutrazol increased gas exchange (net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance) of Callery pear trees on one of four measurement dates (gas exchange was not measured on honeylocust trees). Leaf size of Callery pear trees was reduced following paclobutrazol application whereas leaf size of honeylocust trees was unaffected by paclobutrazol. These results indicate that paclobutrazol can help to reduce stress of trees and improve physiological function under urban conditions. However, paclobutrazol should be viewed as part of a suite of options for arborists and landscapers to manage trees on stressful sites, rather than as a replacement for proper overall care.
Influence of Nutrient Supplementation on Torulaspora Delbrueckii Wine Fermentation Aroma
Authors: Mecca Debora , Benito Santiago , Beisert Beata , Brezina Silvia , Fritsch Stefanie , Semmler Heike , Rauhut Doris
Published: March 2020

This study was performed with the aim of characterizing the fermentative performance of three commercial strains of Torulaspora delbrueckii and their impact on the production of volatile and non-volatile compounds. Laboratory-scale single culture fermentations were performed using a commercial white grape juice. The addition of commercial nutrient products enabled us to test the yeasts under two different nutrient conditions. The addition of nutrients promoted fermentation intensity from 9% to 20 % with significant differences (p < 0.05) among the strains tested. The strain diversity together with the nutrient availability influenced the production of volatile compounds.
Graph-based Method for App Usage Prediction with Attributed Heterogeneous Network Embedding
Authors: Zhou Yifei , Li Shaoyong , Liu Yaping
Published: March 2020

Smartphones and applications have become widespread more and more. Thus, using the hardware and software of users’ mobile phones, we can get a large amount of personal data, in which a large part is about the user’s application usage patterns. By transforming and extracting these data, we can get user preferences, and provide personalized services and improve the experience for users. In a detailed way, studying application usage pattern benefits a variety of advantages such as precise bandwidth allocation, App launch acceleration, etc. However, the first thing to achieve the above advantages is to predict the next application accurately. In this paper, we propose AHNEAP, a novel network embedding based framework for predicting the next App to be used by characterizing the context information before one specific App being launched. AHNEAP transforms the historical App usage records in physical spaces to a large attributed heterogeneous network which contains three node types, three edges, and several attributes like App type, the day of the week. Then, the representation learning process is conducted. Finally, the App usage prediction problem was defined as a link prediction problem, realized by a simple neural network. Experiments on the LiveLab project dataset demonstrate the effectiveness of our framework which outperforms the three baseline methods for each tested user.
Dynamic Analysis and Design Optimization of a Drag-Based Vibratory Swimmer
Authors: Tahmasian Sevak , Jafaryzad Arsam , Bulzoni Nicolas L. , Staples Anne E.
Published: March 2020

Many organisms achieve locomotion via reciprocal motions. This paper presents the dynamic analysis and design optimization of a vibratory swimmer with asymmetric drag forces and fluid added mass. The swimmer consists of a floating body with an oscillatory mass inside. One-dimensional oscillations of the mass cause the body to oscillate with the same frequency as the mass. An asymmetric rigid fin attached to the bottom of the body generates asymmetric hydrodynamic forces, which drive the swimmer either backward or forward on average, depending on the orientation of the fin. The equation of motion of the system is a time-periodic, piecewise-smooth differential equation. We use simulations to determine the hydrodynamic forces acting on the fin and averaging techniques to determine the dynamic response of the swimmer. The analytical results are found to be in good agreement with vibratory swimmer prototype experiments. We found that the average unidirectional speed of the swimmer is optimized if the ratio of the forward and backward drag coefficients is minimized. The analysis presented here can aid in the design and optimization of bio-inspired and biomimetic robotic swimmers. A magnetically controlled microscale vibratory swimmer like the one described here could have applications in targeted drug delivery.
Elucidating the Structure-Function Relationship of Solvent and Cross-Linker on Affinity-Based Release from Cyclodextrin Hydrogels
Authors: Zuckerman Sean T. , Rivera-Delgado Edgardo , Haley Rebecca M. , Korley Julius N. , von Recum Horst A.
Published: March 2020

Minocycline (MNC) is a tetracycline antibiotic capable of associating with cyclodextrin (CD), and it is a frontline drug for many instances of implant infection. Due to its broad-spectrum activity and long half-life, MNC represents an ideal drug for localized delivery; however, classic polymer formulations, particularly hydrogels, result in biphasic release less suitable for sustained anti-microbial action. A polymer delivery system capable of sustained, steady drug delivery rates poses an attractive target to maximize the antimicrobial activity of MNC. Here, we formed insoluble hydrogels of polymerized CD (pCD) with a range of crosslinking densities, and then assessed loading, release, and antimicrobial activity of MNC. MNC loads between 5–12 wt % and releases from pCD hydrogels for >14 days. pCD loaded with MNC shows extended antimicrobial activity against S. aureus for >40 days and E. coli for >70 days. We evaluated a range of water/ethanol blends to test our hypothesis that solvent polarity will impact drug-CD association as a function of hydrogel swelling and crosslinking. Increased polymer crosslinking and decreased solvent polarity both reduced MNC loading, but solvent polarity showed a dramatic reduction independent of hydrogel swelling. Due to its high solubility and excellent delivery profile, MNC represents a unique drug to probe the structure-function relationship between drug, affinity group, and polymer crosslinking ratio.
Effective Risk Communication for Public Health Emergency: Reflection on the COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) Outbreak in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Li Huijie , Chen Kelin
Published: March 2020

Risk communication is critical to emergency management. The objective of this paper is to illustrate the effective process and attention points of risk communication reflecting on the COVID-19 (2019-nCoV) outbreak in Wuhan, China. We provide the timeline of risk communication progress in Wuhan and use a message-centered approach to identify problems that it entailed. It was found that the delayed decision making of the local government officials and the limited information disclosure should be mainly responsible for the ineffective risk communication. The principles for effective risk communication concerning Wuhan’s outbreak management were also discussed. The whole communication process is suggested to integrate the accessibility and openness of risk information, the timing and frequency of communication, and the strategies dealing with uncertainties. Based on these principles and lessons from Wuhan’s case, this paper employed a simplified Government–Expert–Public risk communication model to illustrate a collaborative network for effective risk communication.
Cardiac and Locomotor Responses to Acute Stress in Signal Crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus Exposed to Methamphetamine at an Environmentally Relevant Concentration
Authors: Ložek Filip , Kuklina Iryna , Grabicová Kateřina , Kubec Jan , Buřič Miloš , Randák Tomáš , Císař Petr , Kozák Pavel
Published: March 2020

Methamphetamine (METH), a central nervous system stimulant used as a recreational drug, is frequently found in surface waters at potentially harmful concentrations. To determine effects of long-term exposure to environmentally relevant levels on nontarget organisms, we analysed cardiac and locomotor responses of signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus to acute stress during a 21-day exposure to METH at 1 μg L−1 followed by 14 days depuration. Heart rate and locomotion were recorded over a period of 30 min before and 30 min after exposure to haemolymph of an injured conspecific four times during METH exposure and four times during the depuration phase. Methamphetamine-exposed crayfish showed a weaker cardiac response to stress than was observed in controls during both exposure and depuration phases. Similarly, methamphetamine-exposed crayfish, during METH exposure, showed lower locomotor reaction poststressor application in contrast to controls. Results indicate biological alterations in crayfish exposed to METH at low concentration level, potentially resulting in a shift in interactions among organisms in natural environment.
The Water Status in China and an Adaptive Governance Frame for Water Management
Authors: Li Jiahong , Lei Xiaohui , Qiao Yu , Kang Aiqing , Yan Peiru
Published: March 2020

China is increasingly facing water-related problems, such as water scarcity, pollution, and overexploitation of groundwater. This paper discusses the water status in China and claims that governance is the cause of water-related problems. The structure of the current water management is analyzed to conclude that the control-command is a static approach which is less capable of dealing with the uncertainty in the water resources system. An adaptive governance frame is introduced, which highlights the learning process and participation. The learning process avoids making the same mistake twice and the participation ensures the diversity of information, which are both necessary for water resources management.
Analysis of Hygrothermal Microclimatic (HTM) Parameters in Specific Food Storage Environments in Slovakia
Authors: Marková Iveta , Tureková Ivana , Jaďuďová Jana , Hroncová Emília
Published: March 2020

The quality of work environment, temperature changes and humidity must be controlled in every production process and in the locations where employees are present. The aim of this paper is to objectively assess the exposure of employees to microclimatic factors of the workplace environment: the warehouse, changing rooms, office and cold room refrigerator. Data were obtained in real working conditions. The heat stress due to cold and heat exposure in the individual locations was evaluated using the WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature) indicator. The parameters of the hygrothermal microclimate (HTM) were objectified by a QUES Temp 44/46 T spherical thermometer. The measurements were performed both in cold and hot periods of the year. The measurements confirmed standard temperatures for individual types of interiors in the winter period, but in the summer period there was a variability of results, leading to the thermal discomfort of employees. The assessment of the WBGT index revealed that nearly 80% of employees are susceptible to hypothermia as a result of thermal stress conditions. It was proven that the temperatures measured by a spherical thermometer in the hottest room were 8.62% higher than the calculated operating temperature, while the difference in the cold room refrigerator was only 1.28% higher.
Daily Resting Heart Rate Variability in Adolescent Swimmers during 11 Weeks of Training
Authors: Kamandulis Sigitas , Juodsnukis Antanas , Stanislovaitiene Jurate , Zuoziene Ilona Judita , Bogdelis Andrius , Mickevicius Mantas , Eimantas Nerijus , Snieckus Audrius , Olstad Bjørn Harald , Venckunas Tomas
Published: March 2020

Adolescent athletes are particularly vulnerable to stress. The current study aimed to monitor one of the most popular and accessible stress markers, heart rate variability (HRV), and its associations with training load and sleep duration in young swimmers during an 11-week training period to evaluate its relevance as a tool for monitoring overtraining. National-level swimmers (n = 22, age 14.3 ± 1.0 years) of sprint and middle distance events followed individually structured training programs prescribed by their swimming coach with the main intention of preparing for the national championships. HRV after awakening, during sleep and training were recorded daily. There was a consistent ~4.5% reduction in HRV after 3–5 consecutive days of high (>6 km/day) swimming volume, and an inverse relationship of HRV with large (>7.0 km/day) shifts in total training load (r = −0.35, p < 0.05). Day-to-day HRV did not significantly correlate with training volume or sleep duration. Taken together, these findings suggest that the value of HRV fluctuations in estimating the balance between the magnitude of a young athlete’s physical load and their tolerance is limited on a day-to-day basis, while under sharply increased or extended training load the lower HRV becomes an important indicator of potential overtraining.
Bean Preferences Vary by Acculturation Level among Latinas and by Ethnicity with Non-Hispanic White Women
Authors: Heer Michelle M. , Winham Donna M.
Published: March 2020

With high levels of protein, fiber, folate, iron and other micronutrients, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating beans for optimal nutrition. Low-income women are at greater risk of nutrition-related health disparities. Use of beans may change among Hispanic women (Latinas) during acculturation, but few studies exist that describe specific preferences of this important traditional food. Preserving or promoting beans in the diets of all low-income women could improve dietary quality. The study objectives were to describe consumption frequency, purchasing patterns, and attitudes toward dry and canned beans, by acculturation level among Latinas and by ethnicity with non-Hispanic White women. Survey data were collected from 356 women (µ 32 y ± 9 y; 81% Latina), who were enrolled in, or eligible for, a federal nutrition assistance, or unemployment, program in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. Participants had positive attitudes toward beans overall. Less acculturated and bicultural Latinas bought dry beans more often than their peers. Price was considered important in canned bean selection for Non-Hispanic White women, and less acculturated Latinas had poorer attitudes toward canned. Awareness of these attitudes and preferred traits of low-income women suggests ways to message populations to maintain or increase bean consumption. Negative views of canned beans by Latinas should be investigated further. Inclusion of canned beans in nutrition assistance programs may benefit those unfamiliar with preparing dry beans.
Alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin-Positive Perivascular Cells in Diabetic Retina and Choroid
Authors: Kim Soo Jin , Kim Sang A. , Choi Yeong A. , Park Do Young , Lee Junyeop
Published: March 2020

Structural alterations of pericytes in microvessels are important features of diabetic retinopathy. Although capillary pericytes had been known not to have α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), a recent study revealed that a specific fixation method enabled the visualization of αSMA along retinal capillaries. In this study, we applied snap-fixation in wild type and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice to evaluate the differences in vascular smooth muscle cells of the retina and the choroid. Mice eyeballs were fixed in ice-cold methanol to prevent the depolymerization of filamentous actin. Snap-fixated retina showed αSMA expression in higher-order branches along the capillaries as well as the arterioles and venules, which were not detected by paraformaldehyde fixation. In contrast, most choriocapillaris, except those close to the arterioles, were not covered with αSMA-positive perivascular mural cells. Large choroidal vessels were covered with more αSMA-positive cells in the snap-fixated eyes. Diabetes induced less coverage of αSMA-positive perivascular mural cells overall, but they reached higher-order branches of the retinal capillaries, which was prominent in the aged mice. More αSMA-positive pericytes were observed in the choroid of diabetic mice, but the αSMA-positive expression reduced with aging. This study suggests the potential role of smooth muscle cells in the pathogenesis of age-related diabetic retinopathy and choroidopathy.
Connexin/Innexin Channels in Cytoplasmic Organelles. Are There Intracellular Gap Junctions? A Hypothesis!
Authors: Peracchia Camillo
Published: March 2020

This paper proposes the hypothesis that cytoplasmic organelles directly interact with each other and with gap junctions forming intracellular junctions. This hypothesis originated over four decades ago based on the observation that vesicles lining gap junctions of crayfish giant axons contain electron-opaque particles, similar in size to junctional innexons that often appear to directly interact with junctional innexons; similar particles were seen also in the outer membrane of crayfish mitochondria. Indeed, vertebrate connexins assembled into hexameric connexons are present not only in the membranes of the Golgi apparatus but also in those of the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. It seems possible, therefore, that cytoplasmic organelles may be able to exchange small molecules with each other as well as with organelles of coupled cells via gap junctions.
Combined Treatment with Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor (Canagliflozin) and Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor (Teneligliptin) Alleviates NASH Progression in A Non-Diabetic Rat Model of Steatohepatitis
Authors: Ozutsumi Takahiro , Namisaki Tadashi , Shimozato Naotaka , Kaji Kosuke , Tsuji Yuki , Kaya Daisuke , Fujinaga Yukihisa , Furukawa Masanori , Nakanishi Keisuke , Sato Shinya , Sawada Yasuhiko , Saikawa Soichiro , Kitagawa Koh , Takaya Hiroaki , Kawaratani Hideto , Kitade Mitsuteru , Moriya Kei , Noguchi Ryuichi , Akahane Takemi , Mitoro Akira , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: March 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the strongest independent predictor of mortality in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-related cirrhosis. The effects and mechanisms of combination of sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter inhibitor and canagliflozin (CA) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor and teneligliptin (TE) on non-diabetic NASH progression were examined. CA and TE suppressed choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined diet-induced hepatic fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis. CA alone or with TE significantly decreased proinflammatory cytokine expression. CA and TE significantly attenuated hepatic lipid peroxidation. In vitro studies showed that TE alone or with CA inhibited cell proliferation and TGF-β1 and α1 (I)-procollagen mRNA expression in Ac-HSCs. CA+TE inhibited liver fibrogenesis by attenuating hepatic lipid peroxidation and inflammation and by inhibiting Ac-HSC proliferation with concomitant attenuation of hepatic lipid peroxidation. Moreover, CA+TE suppressed in vivo angiogenesis and oxidative DNA damage. CA or CA+TE inhibited HCC cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation. CA+TE suppressed vascular endothelial growth factor expression and promoted increased E-cadherin expression in HUVECs. CA+TE potentially exerts synergistic effects on hepatocarcinogenesis prevention by suppressing HCC cell proliferation and angiogenesis and concomitantly reducing oxidative stress and by inhibiting angiogenesis with attenuation of oxidative stress. CA+TE showed chemopreventive effects on NASH progression compared with single agent in non-diabetic rat model of NASH, concurrent with Ac-HSC and HCC cell proliferation, angiogenesis oxidative stress, and inflammation. Both agents are widely, safely used in clinical practice; combined treatment may represent a potential strategy against NASH.
Degeneration of Lumbar Intervertebral Discs: Characterization of Anulus Fibrosus Tissue and Cells of Different Degeneration Grades
Authors: Stich Stefan , Jagielski Michal , Fleischmann Anja , Meier Carola , Bussmann Patricia , Kohl Benjamin , Schmidt Julia , Krüger Jan-Philipp , Endres Michaela , Cabraja Mario , Reimann Kolja , Laue Dominik , Ertel Wolfgang , Sittinger Michael
Published: March 2020

Intervertebral disc (IVD) herniation and degeneration is a major source of back pain. In order to regenerate a herniated and degenerated disc, closure of the anulus fibrosus (AF) is of crucial importance. For molecular characterization of AF, genome-wide Affymetrix HG-U133plus2.0 microarrays of native AF and cultured cells were investigated. To evaluate if cells derived from degenerated AF are able to initiate gene expression of a regenerative pattern of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, cultivated cells were stimulated with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) for 24 h. Comparative microarray analysis of native AF tissues showed 788 genes with a significantly different gene expression with 213 genes more highly expressed in mild and 575 genes in severe degenerated AF tissue. Mild degenerated native AF tissues showed a higher gene expression of common cartilage ECM genes, whereas severe degenerated AF tissues expressed genes known from degenerative processes, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and bone associated genes. During monolayer cultivation, only 164 differentially expressed genes were found. The cells dedifferentiated and altered their gene expression profile. RTD-PCR analyses of BMP2- and TGFβ1-stimulated cells from mild and severe degenerated AF tissue after 24 h showed an increased expression of cartilage associated genes. TNFα stimulation increased MMP1, 3, and 13 expression. Cells derived from mild and severe degenerated tissues could be stimulated to a comparable extent. These results give hope that regeneration of mildly but also strongly degenerated disc tissue is possible.
Computational Study on the Effect of Inactivating/Activating Mutations on the Inhibition of MEK1 by Trametinib
Authors: Zhu Jingxuan , Li Congcong , Yang Hengzheng , Guo Xiaoqing , Huang Tianci , Han Weiwei
Published: March 2020

Activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway regulated by human MAP kinase 1 (MEK1) is associated with the carcinogenesis and progression of numerous cancers. In addition, two active mutations (P124S and E203K) have been reported to enhance the activity of MEK1, thereby eventually leading to the tumorigenesis of cancer. Trametinib is an MEK1 inhibitor for treating EML4-ALK-positive, EGFR-activated, and KRAS-mutant lung cancers. Therefore, in this study, molecular docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations were performed to explore the effects of inactive/active mutations (A52V/P124S and E203K) on the conformational changes of MEK1 and the changes in the interaction of MEK1 with trametinib. Moreover, steered molecular dynamic (SMD) simulations were further utilized to compare the dissociation processes of trametinib from the wild-type (WT) MEK1 and two active mutants (P124S and E203K). As a result, trametinib had stronger interactions with the non-active MEK1 (WT and A52V mutant) than the two active mutants (P124S and E203K). Moreover, two active mutants may make the allosteric channel of MEK1 wider and shorter than that of the non-active types (WT and A52V mutant). Hence, trametinib could dissociate from the active mutants (P124S and E203K) more easily compared with the WT MEK1. In summary, our theoretical results demonstrated that the active mutations may attenuate the inhibitory effects of MEK inhibitor (trametinib) on MEK1, which could be crucial clues for future anti-cancer treatment.
Knockdown of Musashi RNA Binding Proteins Decreases Radioresistance but Enhances Cell Motility and Invasion in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Troschel Fabian M. , Minte Annemarie , Ismail Yahia Mahmoud , Kamal Amr , Abdullah Mahmoud Salah , Ahmed Sarah Hamdy , Deffner Marie , Kemper Björn , Kiesel Ludwig , Eich Hans Theodor , Ibrahim Sherif Abdelaziz , Götte Martin , Greve Burkhard
Published: March 2020

The therapeutic potential of Musashi (MSI) RNA-binding proteins, important stemness-associated gene expression regulators, remains insufficiently understood in breast cancer. This study identifies the interplay between MSI protein expression, stem cell characteristics, radioresistance, cell invasiveness and migration. MSI-1, MSI-2 and Notch pathway elements were investigated via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in 19 triple-negative breast cancer samples. Measurements were repeated in MDA-MB-231 cells after MSI-1 and -2 siRNA-mediated double knockdown, with further experiments performed after MSI silencing. Flow cytometry helped quantify expression of CD44 and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), changes in apoptosis and cell cycle progression. Proliferation and irradiation-induced effects were assessed using colony formation assays. Radiation-related proteins were investigated via Western blots. Finally, cell invasion assays and digital holographic microscopy for cell migration were performed. MSI proteins showed strong correlations with Notch pathway elements. MSI knockdown resulted in reduction of stem cell marker expression, cell cycle progression and proliferation, while increasing apoptosis. Cells were radiosensitized as radioresistance-conferring proteins were downregulated. However, MSI-silencing-mediated LIFR downregulation resulted in enhanced cell invasion and migration. We conclude that, while MSI knockdown results in several therapeutically desirable consequences, enhanced invasion and migration need to be counteracted before knockdown advantages can be fully exploited.
eIF4E and Interactors from Unicellular Eukaryotes
Authors: Ross-Kaschitza Daniela , Altmann Michael
Published: March 2020

eIF4E, the mRNA cap-binding protein, is well known as a general initiation factor allowing for mRNA-ribosome interaction and cap-dependent translation in eukaryotic cells. In this review we focus on eIF4E and its interactors in unicellular organisms such as yeasts and protozoan eukaryotes. In a first part, we describe eIF4Es from yeast species such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida albicans, and Schizosaccharomyces pombe. In the second part, we will address eIF4E and interactors from parasite unicellular species—trypanosomatids and marine microorganisms—dinoflagellates. We propose that different strategies have evolved during evolution to accommodate cap-dependent translation to differing requirements. These evolutive “adjustments” involve various forms of eIF4E that are not encountered in all microorganismic species. In yeasts, eIF4E interactors, particularly p20 and Eap1 are found exclusively in Saccharomycotina species such as S. cerevisiae and C. albicans. For protozoan parasites of the Trypanosomatidae family beside a unique cap4-structure located at the 5′UTR of all mRNAs, different eIF4Es and eIF4Gs are active depending on the life cycle stage of the parasite. Additionally, an eIF4E-interacting protein has been identified in Leishmania major which is important for switching from promastigote to amastigote stages. For dinoflagellates, little is known about the structure and function of the multiple and diverse eIF4Es that have been identified thanks to widespread sequencing in recent years.
The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Life Cycle of the Mitochondrion
Authors: Venditti Paola , Di Meo Sergio
Published: March 2020

Currently, it is known that, in living systems, free radicals and other reactive oxygen and nitrogen species play a double role, because they can cause oxidative damage and tissue dysfunction and serve as molecular signals activating stress responses that are beneficial to the organism. It is also known that mitochondria, because of their capacity to produce free radicals, play a major role in tissue oxidative damage and dysfunction and provide protection against excessive tissue dysfunction through several mechanisms, including the stimulation of permeability transition pore opening. This process leads to mitoptosis and mitophagy, two sequential processes that are a universal route of elimination of dysfunctional mitochondria and is essential to protect cells from the harm due to mitochondrial disordered metabolism. To date, there is significant evidence not only that the above processes are induced by enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, but also that such production is involved in the other phases of the mitochondrial life cycle. Accumulating evidence also suggests that these effects are mediated through the regulation of the expression and the activity of proteins that are engaged in processes such as genesis, fission, fusion, and removal of mitochondria. This review provides an account of the developments of the knowledge on the dynamics of the mitochondrial population, examining the mechanisms governing their genesis, life, and death, and elucidating the role played by free radicals in such processes.