bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agonist Effects of Propranolol on Non-Tumor Human Breast Cells
Authors: Gargiulo Lucía , Rivero Ezequiel Mariano , di Siervi Nicolás , Buzzi Edgardo David , Buffone Mariano Gabriel , Davio Carlos Alberto , Lüthy Isabel Alicia , Bruzzone Ariana
Published: April 2020

The β-blocker propranolol (PROP) has been proposed as a repurposed treatment for breast cancer. The similarity of action between β-agonists and antagonists found on breast cells encouraged us to compare PROP and isoproterenol (ISO, agonist) signaling pathways on a human breast cell line. Cell proliferation was measured by cell counting and DNA-synthesis. Cell adhesion was measured counting the cells that remained adhered to the plastic after different treatments. Changes in actin cytoskeleton were observed by fluorescence staining and Western Blot. ISO and PROP caused a diminution of cell proliferation and an increase of cell adhesion, reverted by the pure β-antagonist ICI-118551. ISO and PROP induced a reorganization of actin cytoskeleton increasing F-actin, p-COFILIN and p-LIMK. While ISO elicited a marked enhancement of cAMP concentrations and an increase of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation, PROP did not. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis inhibition or β-arrestin1 dominant-negative mutant abrogated PROP-induced cell adhesion and COFILIN phosphorylation. The fact that PROP has been proposed as an adjuvant drug for breast cancer makes it necessary to determine the specific action of PROP in breast models. These results provide an explanation for the discrepancies observed between experimental results and clinical evidence.
Wendy L. Havran, PhD: 1955–2020
Authors: Witherden Deborah A.
Published: April 2020

Wendy Havran, Professor and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at Scripps Research, passed away on January 20th, 2020 following a heart attack [...]
HSF1: Primary Factor in Molecular Chaperone Expression and a Major Contributor to Cancer Morbidity
Authors: Prince Thomas L. , Lang Benjamin J. , Guerrero-Gimenez Martin E. , Fernandez-Muñoz Juan Manuel , Ackerman Andrew , Calderwood Stuart K.
Published: April 2020

Heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) is the primary component for initiation of the powerful heat shock response (HSR) in eukaryotes. The HSR is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism for responding to proteotoxic stress and involves the rapid expression of heat shock protein (HSP) molecular chaperones that promote cell viability by facilitating proteostasis. HSF1 activity is amplified in many tumor contexts in a manner that resembles a chronic state of stress, characterized by high levels of HSP gene expression as well as HSF1-mediated non-HSP gene regulation. HSF1 and its gene targets are essential for tumorigenesis across several experimental tumor models, and facilitate metastatic and resistant properties within cancer cells. Recent studies have suggested the significant potential of HSF1 as a therapeutic target and have motivated research efforts to understand the mechanisms of HSF1 regulation and develop methods for pharmacological intervention. We review what is currently known regarding the contribution of HSF1 activity to cancer pathology, its regulation and expression across human cancers, and strategies to target HSF1 for cancer therapy.
The P2X7 Receptor and NLRP3 Axis in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Brief Review
Authors: Rossato Marco , Di Vincenzo Angelo , Pagano Claudio , Hadi Hamza El , Vettor Roberto
Published: April 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, and its prevalence is reaching epidemic characteristics both in adults and in children. The increase of NAFLD prevalence parallels that of obesity, now representing the major cause of liver inflammation, increasing the risk of cirrhosis and hepatocarcinoma. Furthermore, NAFLD is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, two of the major leading causes of morbidity and mortality in western countries. Thus a significant amount of studies have dealt with the evaluation of the possible molecular mechanisms leading to NAFLD and its inflammatory consequences within the liver, the non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and cirrhosis. The inflammasome is a key player in the inflammation and fibrogenic responses in many different tissues, including the liver. The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome requires the activation by extracellular adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) of a specific purinergic receptor named P2X7 located in the target cells, although other pathways have been described. To this regard, extracellular ATP acts as an internal danger signal coming from damaged cells participating in the activation of the inflammatory process, a signaling pathway common to many different tissues. Here, we briefly review the involvement of the P2X7 receptor/inflammasome NLRP3 axis in the pathophysiological events leading to NAFLD and its inflammatory and fibrotic evolutions, reporting the possible therapeutical strategies targeting the P2X7 receptor/NLRP3 inflammasome.
VEGF Treatment Ameliorates Depression-Like Behavior in Adult Offspring after Maternal Immune Activation
Authors: Sideromenos Spyridon , Lindtner Claudia , Zambon Alice , Horvath Orsolya , Berger Angelika , Pollak Daniela D.
Published: April 2020

Maternal immune activation (MIA) during pregnancy impacts offspring neurodevelopmental trajectories and induces lifelong consequences, including emotional and cognitive alterations. Using the polyinosinic:polycytidilic acid (PIC) MIA model we have previously demonstrated enhanced depression-like behavior in adult MIA offspring, which was associated with reduced expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in the hippocampus. Since VEGF mediates the effects of various antidepressant agents, we here set out to explore whether VEGF administration could rescue the depression-like behavioral deficits in MIA offspring. To test our hypothesis, control and MIA offspring were intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) infused with either VEGF or vehicle solution and depression-related behavior was assessed in the sucrose preference test (SPT) and the tail suspension test (TST). As a surrogate of VEGF activity, the phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in hippocampus was quantified. We found that VEGF treatment reduced depression-related behavioral despair in the TST in MIA offspring but had no effect on anhedonia-like behavior in the SPT. While VEGF administration induced the phosphorylation of ERK in the hippocampus of control offspring, this effect was blunted in the MIA offspring. We conclude that VEGF administration, at the dosage tested, beneficially affects some aspects of the depression-like phenotype in the adult MIA offspring, inviting further studies using different dosage regimes to further explore the therapeutic potential of VEGF treatment in MIA-related changes in brain function and behavior.
Novel Platinum-Porphyrin as Sensing Compound for Efficient Fluorescent and Electrochemical Detection of H2O2
Authors: Fagadar-Cosma Eugenia , Plesu Nicoleta , Lascu Anca , Anghel Diana , Cazacu Maria , Ianasi Catalin , Fagadar-Cosma Gheorghe , Fratilescu Ion , Epuran Camelia
Published: April 2020

Metalloporphyrins are highly recognized for their capacity to act as sensitive substances used in formulation of optical, fluorescent, and electrochemical sensors. A novel compound, namely Pt(II)-5,10,15,20-tetra-(4-allyloxy-phenyl) porphyrin, was synthesized by metalation with PtCl2(PhCN)2 of the corresponding porphyrin base and was fully characterized by UV-vis, fluorimetry, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR methods. The fluorescence response of this Pt-porphyrin in the presence of different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide was investigated. Besides, modified glassy carbon electrodes with this Pt-porphyrin (Pt-Porf-GCE) were realized and several electrochemical characterizations were comparatively performed with bare glassy carbon electrodes (GCE), in the absence or presence of hydrogen peroxide. The Pt-porphyrin demonstrated to be a successful sensitive material for the detection of hydrogen peroxide both by fluorimetric method in a concentration range relevant for biological samples (1.05–3.9 × 10−7 M) and by electrochemical method, in a larger concentration range from 1 × 10−6 M to 5 × 10−5 M. Based on different methods, this Pt-porphyrin can cover detection in diverse fields, from medical tests to food and agricultural monitoring, proving high accuracy (correlation coefficients over 99%) in both fluorimetric and electrochemical measurements.
An Electronic Nose Technology to Quantify Pyrethroid Pesticide Contamination in Tea
Authors: Tang Xiaoyan , Xiao Wenmin , Shang Tao , Zhang Shanyan , Han Xiaoyang , Wang Yuliang , Sun Haiwei
Published: April 2020

The contamination of tea with toxic pesticides is a major concern. Additionally, because of improved detection methods, importers are increasingly rejecting contaminated teas. Here, we describe an electronic nose technique for the rapid detection of pyrethroid pesticides (cyhalothrin, bifenthrin, and fenpropathrin) in tea. Using a PEN 3 electronic nose, the text screened a group of metal oxide sensors and determined that four of them (W5S, W1S, W1W, and W2W) are suitable for the detection of the same pyrethroid pesticide in different concentrations and five of them (W5S, W1S, W1W, W2W, and W2S) are suitable for the detection of pyrethroid pesticide. The models for the determination of cyhalothrin, bifenthrin, and fenpropathrin are established by PLS method. Next, using back propagation (BP) neural network technology, we developed a three-hidden-layer model and a two-hidden-layer model to differentiate among the three pesticides. The accuracy of the three models is 96%, 92%, and 88%, respectively. The recognition accuracies of the three-hidden-layer BP neural network pattern and two-hidden-layer BP neural network pattern are 98.75% and 97.08%, respectively. Our electronic nose system accurately detected and quantified pyrethroid pesticides in tea leaves. We propose that this tool is now ready for practical application in the tea industry.
Statistical/Numerical Model of the Powder-Gas Jet for Extreme High-Speed Laser Material Deposition
Authors: Schopphoven Thomas , Pirch Norbert , Mann Stefan , Poprawe Reinhart , Häfner Constantin Leon , Schleifenbaum Johannes Henrich
Published: April 2020

Extreme high-speed laser material deposition, known by its German acronym EHLA, is a new variant of laser material deposition (LMD) with powdered additives. This variant’s process control is unlike that of LMD, where the powder melts as it contacts the melt pool. In the EHLA process, the laser beam melts the powder above the surface of the substrate to deliver a liquid to the melt pool. At a given intensity distribution in a laser beam, the heating of powder particles in the beam path depends largely on the three-dimensional powder particle density distribution (PDD) and the relative position within the laser beam caustic. As a key element of a comprehensive numerical process model for EHLA, this paper presents a statistical/numerical model of the powder-gas jet, as previously published in Experimentelle und modelltheoretische Untersuchungen zum Extremen Hochgeschwindigkeits-Laserauftragschweißen. The powder-gas jet is characterized experimentally and described with a mathematical model. This serves to map the PDD of the powder-gas flow—and particularly the particle trajectories for different grain fractions—as well as the powder mass flows and carrier and inert gas settings, to a theoretical model. The result is a numerical description of the particle trajectories that takes into account the measured particle size distribution with calculations made on the assumption of a constant particle velocity and linear trajectories of the particles.
Computational Approaches in Membrane Science and Engineering
Authors: Fuoco Alessio , De Luca Giorgio , Tocci Elena , Jansen Johannes Carolus
Published: April 2020

Computational modelling and simulation form a consolidated branch in the multidisciplinary field of membrane science and technology [...]
Calculation of Surface Properties of Cubic and Hexagonal Crystals through Molecular Statics Simulations
Authors: Tang Zihan , Chen Yue , Ye Wei
Published: April 2020

Surface property is an important factor that is widely considered in crystal growth and design. It is also found to play a critical role in changing the constitutive law seen in the classical elasticity theory for nanomaterials. Through molecular static simulations, this work presents the calculation of surface properties (surface energy density, surface stress and surface stiffness) of some typical cubic and hexagonal crystals: face-centered-cubic (FCC) pure metals (Cu, Ni, Pd and Ag), body-centered-cubic (BCC) pure metals (Mo and W), diamond Si, zincblende GaAs and GaN, hexagonal-close-packed (HCP) pure metals (Mg, Zr and Ti), and wurzite GaN. Sound agreements of the bulk and surface properties between this work and the literature are found. New results are first reported for the surface stiffness of BCC pure metals, surface stress and surface stiffness of HCP pure metals, Si, GaAs and GaN. Comparative studies of the surface properties are carried out to uncover trends in their behaviors. The results in this work could be helpful to the investigation of material properties and structure performances of crystals.
Higher-Order Cumulants Drive Neuronal Activity Patterns, Inducing UP-DOWN States in Neural Populations
Authors: Baravalle Roman , Montani Fernando
Published: April 2020

A major challenge in neuroscience is to understand the role of the higher-order correlations structure of neuronal populations. The dichotomized Gaussian model (DG) generates spike trains by means of thresholding a multivariate Gaussian random variable. The DG inputs are Gaussian distributed, and thus have no interactions beyond the second order in their inputs; however, they can induce higher-order correlations in the outputs. We propose a combination of analytical and numerical techniques to estimate higher-order, above the second, cumulants of the firing probability distributions. Our findings show that a large amount of pairwise interactions in the inputs can induce the system into two possible regimes, one with low activity (“DOWN state”) and another one with high activity (“UP state”), and the appearance of these states is due to a combination between the third- and fourth-order cumulant. This could be part of a mechanism that would help the neural code to upgrade specific information about the stimuli, motivating us to examine the behavior of the critical fluctuations through the Binder cumulant close to the critical point. We show, using the Binder cumulant, that higher-order correlations in the outputs generate a critical neural system that portrays a second-order phase transition.
Hall Effect on Radiative Casson Fluid Flow with Chemical Reaction on a Rotating Cone through Entropy Optimization
Authors: Deebani Wejdan , Tassaddiq Asifa , Shah Zahir , Dawar Abdullah , Ali Farhad
Published: April 2020

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow with Hall current has numerous applications in industrial areas such as Hall current accelerators, MHD power generators, planetary dynamics, Hall current sensors, etc. In this paper, the analysis of an unsteady MHD Casson fluid with chemical reaction over a rotating cone is presented. The impacts of Hall current, joule heating, thermal radiation, and viscous dissipation are analyzed. Entropy optimization is also considered in the present analysis. The system of coupled equations is tackled with homotopy analysis method (HAM). The convergence of HAM is also shown through figures. Deviations in the flow due to dimensionless parameters are shown graphically. Similarly, the variation in skin friction, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number are deliberated through Tables. A justification of the current consequences is presented.
Correction: Li, Q.; Liang, S.Y. Incipient Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearings Based on Impulse-Step Impact Dictionary and Re-Weighted Minimizing Nonconvex Penalty Lq Regular Technique. Entropy 2017, 19, 421
Authors: Li Qing , Liang Steven Y.
Published: April 2020

The authors were not aware of some errors and imprecise descriptions made in the proofreading phase, therefore, we wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Balanced Growth Approach to Tracking Recessions
Authors: Boczoń Marta , Richard Jean-François
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we propose a hybrid version of Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium models with an emphasis on parameter invariance and tracking performance at times of rapid changes (recessions). We interpret hypothetical balanced growth ratios as moving targets for economic agents that rely upon an Error Correction Mechanism to adjust to changes in target ratios driven by an underlying state Vector AutoRegressive process. Our proposal is illustrated by an application to a pilot Real Business Cycle model for the US economy from 1948 to 2019. An extensive recursive validation exercise over the last 35 years, covering 3 recessions, is used to highlight its parameters invariance, tracking and 1- to 3-step ahead forecasting performance, outperforming those of an unconstrained benchmark Vector AutoRegressive model.
A Theoretical Model for the Development of Mathematical Talent through Mathematical Creativity
Authors: Barraza-García Zeidy M. , Romo-Vázquez Avenilde , Roa-Fuentes Solange
Published: April 2020

This study was conducted from a perspective that adopts a broad vision of mathematical talent, defined as the potential that a subject manifests when confronting certain types of tasks, in a successful way, that generate creative mathematical activity. To analyse this, our study proposes a Praxeological Model of Mathematical Talent based on the Anthropological Theory of Didactics and the notion of mathematical creativity, which defines four technological functions: (1) producing new techniques; (2) optimizing those techniques (3); considering tasks from diverse angles; and (4) adapting techniques. Using this model, this study analyses the creative mathematical activity of students aged 10–12 years displayed as they sought to solve a series of infinite succession tasks proposed to encourage the construction of generalization processes. The setting is a Mathematics Club (a talent-promoting institution). The evaluation of results shows that the Praxeological Model of Mathematical Talent allows the emergence and analysis of mathematical creativity and, therefore, encourages the development of mathematical talent.
A Collision-Free Hybrid MAC Protocol Based on Pipeline Parallel Transmission for Distributed Multi-Channel Underwater Acoustic Networks
Authors: Zhang Jun , Hu Zhi , Xiong Yan , Ning Gengxin
Published: April 2020

The transmission rate between two nodes is usually very low in underwater acoustic networks due to the low available bandwidth of underwater acoustic channels. Therefore, increasing the transmission parallelism among network nodes is one of the most effective ways to improve the performance of underwater acoustic networks. In this paper, we propose a new collision-free hybrid medium access control (MAC) protocol for distributed multi-channel underwater acoustic networks. In the proposed protocol, handshaking and data transmission are implemented as a pipeline on multiple acoustic channels. Handshaking is implemented using the time division multiple access (TDMA) technique in a dedicated control channel, which can support multiple successful handshakes in a transmission cycle and avoid collision in the cost of additional delay. Data packets are transmitted in one or multiple data channels, where an algorithm for optimizing the transmission schedule according to the inter-nodal propagation delays is proposed to achieve collision-free parallel data transmission. Replication computation technique, which is usually used in parallel computation to reduce the requirement of communication or execution time, is used in the data packet scheduling to reduce communication overhead in distributed environments. Simulation results show that the proposed protocol outperforms the slotted floor acquisition multiple access (SFAMA), reverse opportunistic packet appending (ROPA), and distributed scheduling based concurrent transmission (DSCT) protocols in throughput, packet delivery rate, and average energy consumption in the price of larger end-to-end delay introduced by TDMA based handshaking.
Non-Isothermal Treatment of Oily Waters Using Ceramic Membrane: A Numerical Investigation
Authors: Magalhães Hortência L. F. , Moreira Gicelia , Gomez Ricardo S. , Porto Túlio R. N. , Correia Balbina R. B. , Silva Anderson M. V. , Farias Neto Severino R. , Lima Antonio G. B.
Published: April 2020

Currently, the oil industry deals with the challenge of produced-water proper disposal, and the membrane-separation technology appears as an important tool on the treatment of these waters. In this sense, this work developed a mathematical model for simulating the oil/water separation by a ceramic membrane. The aim was to investigate the thermal aspects of the separation process via computational fluid dynamic, using the Ansys CFX® 15 software (15, Ansys, Inc., Canonsburg, PA, USA). Oil concentration, pressure, and velocity distributions, as well as permeation velocity, are presented and analyzed. It was verified that the mathematical model was capable of accurately representing the studied phenomena and that temperature strongly influences the flow behavior.
Chronological Transition of Relationship between Intracity Lifecycle Transport Energy Efficiency and Population Density
Authors: Kosai Shoki , Yuasa Muku , Yamasue Eiji
Published: April 2020

Interests in evaluating lifecycle energy use in urban transport have been growing as a research topic. Various studies have evaluated the relationship between the intracity transport energy use and population density and commonly identified its negative correlation. However, a diachronic transition in an individual city has yet to be fully analyzed. As such, this study employed transport energy intensity widely used for evaluating transport energy efficiency and obtained the transport energy intensity for each transportation means including walk, bicycle, automobile (conventional vehicles, electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles), bus and electric train by considering the lifecycle energy consumption. Then, the intracity lifecycle transport energy intensity of 38 cities in Japan in 1987–2015 was computed, assuming that the cause of diachronic transition of intracity transport energy efficiency is the modal shifting and electricity mix change. As a result, the greater level of population density was associated with the lower intracity transport energy intensity in Japanese cities. The negative slope of its regression line increased over time since the intracity lifecycle transport energy intensity in cities with low population density continuously increased without any significant change of population density. Finally, this study discussed the strategic implications particularly in regional areas to improve the intracity lifecycle transport energy efficiency.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Thermal Performances of SiC/Water and Al2O3/Water Nanofluid Inside a Circular Tube with Constant-Increased-PR Twisted Tape
Authors: Ahmad Saadah , Abdullah Shahrir , Sopian Kamaruzzaman
Published: April 2020

The simultaneous use of two passive methods (twisted tape and a nanofluid) in a heat transfer system will increase the average Nusselt number (Nu) of the system. However, the presence of inserts and nanoparticles inside the tube will create higher pressure drop (ΔP) in the system, which can eventually affect the overall enhancement ratio (η), especially at higher Reynolds numbers (Re). Several modifications of twisted tapes have been made to reduce ΔP, but most showed a decreasing trend of η as Re increased. The objective of this study is to design a new geometry of twisted tape that yields a larger value of Nu and a smaller value of ΔP, which can result in a larger value of η especially at higher Re. A simulation and experimental analysis are conducted in which Re ranges from 4000–16,000 with two types of nanofluids (SiC/Water and Al2O3/Water) at various values of the volume fraction, (φ) (1–3%). ANSYS FLUENT software with the RNG k-ɛ turbulent model is adopted for the simulation analysis. Three types of twisted tape are used in the analysis: classic twisted tape with a pitch ratio of 2 (TT PR2), constant-increasing-pitch-ratio twisted tape (TT IPR) and constant-decreasing-pitch-ratio twisted tape (TT DPR). The use of TT IPR generates a stronger swirling flow at the inlet of the tube and smaller ∆P, especially near the outlet region. The highest value of η is obtained for 3% SiC/Water nanofluid that is flowing through a smooth circular tube with TT IPR inserts at Re of 10,000.
Calibration of the Interaction Parameters between the Proppant and Fracture Wall and the Effects of These Parameters on Proppant Distribution
Authors: Li Mingzhong , Liu Chunting , Zhang Guodong
Published: April 2020

Saltation and reputation (creep) dominate proppant transport rather than suspension during slickwater fracturing, due to the low sand-carrying capacity of the slickwater. Thus, the interaction parameters between proppants and fracture walls, which affect saltation and reputation, play a more critical role in proppant transport. In this paper, a calibration method for the interaction parameters between proppants and walls is built. A three-dimensional coupled computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD–DEM) model is established to study the effects of the interaction parameters on proppant migration, considering the wall roughness and unevenly distributed diameters of proppants. The simulation results show that a lower static friction coefficient and rolling friction coefficient can result in a smaller equilibrium height of the sand bank and a smaller build angle and drawdown angle, which is beneficial for carrying the proppant to the distal end of the fracture. The wall roughness and the unevenly distributed diameter of the proppants increase the collision between proppant and proppant or the wall, whereas the interactions have little impact on the sandbank morphology, slightly increasing the equilibrium height of the sandbank.
Baselines for Energy Use and Carbon Emission Intensities in Hellenic Nonresidential Buildings
Authors: Droutsa Kalliopi G. , Balaras Constantinos A. , Lykoudis Spyridon , Kontoyiannidis Simon , Dascalaki Elena G. , Argiriou Athanassios A.
Published: April 2020

This work exploits data from 30,000 energy performance certificates of whole nonresidential (NR) buildings in Greece. The available information is analyzed for 30 different NR building uses (e.g., hotels, schools, sports facilities, hospitals, retails, offices) and four main services (space heating, space cooling, domestic hot water and lighting). Data are screened in order to exclude outliers and checked for consistency with the Hellenic NR building stock. The average energy use and CO2 emission intensities for all building uses are calculated, as well as the respective energy ratings in order to gain a better understanding of the NR sector. Finally, in an attempt to determine whether these values are representative for the various Hellenic NR building uses, their temporal evolution is investigated. The average primary energy use intensity is 448.0 kWh/m2 for all NR buildings, while the CO2 emissions reach 147.5 kgCO2/m2. The derived energy baselines reveal that indoor sports halls/swimming pools have the highest energy use, while private cram schools/conservatories have the lowest, due to their operational patterns. Generally, from the four services taken into account, lighting is the most energy consuming, followed by cooling, heating and finally domestic hot water. For a total of 11 building uses, more data from the certificates will be necessary for deriving representative baselines, but, when it comes to buildings categories, more data are required.
A Nearly Zero-Energy Microgrid Testbed Laboratory: Centralized Control Strategy Based on SCADA System
Authors: Kermani Mostafa , Carnì Domenico Luca , Rotondo Sara , Paolillo Aurelio , Manzo Francesco , Martirano Luigi
Published: April 2020

Currently, despite the use of renewable energy sources (RESs), distribution networks are facing problems, such as complexity and low productivity. Emerging microgrids (MGs) with RESs based on supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) are an effective solution to control, manage, and finally deal with these challenges. The development and success of MGs is highly dependent on the use of power electronic interfaces. The use of these interfaces is directly related to the progress of SCADA systems and communication infrastructures. The use of SCADA systems for the control and operation of MGs and active distribution networks promotes productivity and efficiency. This paper presents a real MG case study called the LAMBDA MG testbed laboratory, which has been implemented in the electrical department of the Sapienza University of Rome with a centralized energy management system (CEMS). The real-time results of the SCADA system show that a CEMS can create proper energy balance in a LAMBDA MG testbed and, consequently, minimize the exchange power of the LAMBDA MG and main grid.
The Role of Low Temperature Waste Heat Recovery in Achieving 2050 Goals: A Policy Positioning Paper
Authors: Wheatcroft Edward , Wynn Henry , Lygnerud Kristina , Bonvicini Giorgio , Leonte Daniela
Published: April 2020

Urban waste heat recovery, in which low temperature heat from urban sources is recovered for use in a district heat network, has a great deal of potential in helping to achieve 2050 climate goals. For example, heat from data centres, metro systems, public sector buildings and waste water treatment plants could be used to supply 10% of Europe’s heat demand. Despite this, at present, urban waste heat recovery is not widespread and is an immature technology. Based on interviews with urban waste heat stakeholders, investors interested in green investments, and experience from demonstrator projects, a number of recommendations are made. It is suggested that policy raising awareness of waste heat recovery, encouraging investment and creating a legal framework should be implemented. It is also recommended that pilot projects should be promoted to help demonstrate technical and economic feasibility. A pilot credit facility is suggested aimed at bridging the gap between potential investors and heat recovery projects.
The Accessibility of Post-Fire Areas for Mechanized Thinning Operations
Authors: Kulak Dariusz , Sowa Janusz M. , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Stańczykiewicz Arkadiusz
Published: April 2020

In 1992, in Southern Poland, large areas of Silesian forests were affected by the country’s largest forest fire. Stands introduced in the 9000-ha post-fire region are currently undergoing early thinning. Due to the scope of these treatments, the chance for their timely implementation is ensured only by the application of cut-to-length (CTL) technologies, i.e., with the use of harvesters and forwarders. The use of CTL technologies may, however, be difficult due to the fire history of these stands, which could affect the bearing capacity of their soils. The objective of this study is to determine the accessibility of stands for forest machines in relation to the bearing capacity of the soils and changes in soil compaction in the post-fire sites. Soil compaction was measured in terms of penetrometer resistance in the stands introduced in the post-fire area in question, as well as in control stands growing on five different soil types. It was shown that in the topsoil layer—from 8 to 18 cm thick depending on the soil type—differences in soil compaction in the post-fire and control areas were relatively small. The impacts of the forest fire—manifested as a significant increase in the compaction of the forest soils—were still visible, but only in the deeper layers of the soil profile. In all of the compared pairs of forest compartments located in the stands regenerated after the fire, significantly higher values of cone indexes (CI) were found. The average value of this index in the post-fire stands was 2.15 MPa, while in the control stands it was 1.60 MPa, which indicates that in both groups of stands the bearing capacity of the soils should not limit the accessibility for vehicles used for timber harvesting and extraction.
A Local Initiative to Achieve Global Forest and Landscape Restoration Challenge—Lessons Learned from a Community-Based Forest Restoration Project in Biliran Province, Philippines
Authors: Gregorio Nestor , Herbohn John , Tripoli Rogelio , Pasa Arturo
Published: April 2020

Forest and landscape restoration in the tropics is often undertaken by groups of smallholders and communities whose livelihoods are primarily agricultural and forest-based. In the Philippines, the implementation of forest restoration programs involving people’s organizations showed mixed results. We present a case study of a pilot community-based forest restoration project that was undertaken in Biliran Province to understand the impediments, and pilot test interventions to improve restoration outcomes. The project was designed using systems thinking, employing smallholder-based best-practice, and applying the principles of a participatory approach. The results revealed that the initial participation of smallholders is mostly driven by short-term financial incentives. However, long-term commitment to managing the trees is attributed mainly to sustainable livelihood, land and tree rights, equitable sharing of benefits, strong leadership, effective governance and improved human and social capitals. The support of extension officers, use of high-quality seedlings, and participation of women are essential for community-based forest restoration success. Key lessons from our research could contribute to fulfilling the forest and landscape restoration commitments of developing countries in the tropics.
Spatial Habitat Suitability Models of Mangroves with Kandelia obovata
Authors: Shih Shang-Shu
Published: April 2020

Mangrove forests provide important estuarine ecosystem services but are threatened by rising sea levels and anthropogenic impacts. Understanding the habitat characteristics required for mangrove growth is significant for mangrove restoration and integrated management. This study aims to build spatial habitat suitability index (HSI) models for Kandelia obovata mangrove trees. Biological and habitat-related environmental data were collected in the Wazwei and Guandu wetlands in northern Taiwan. We adopted inundation frequency, soil sorting coefficient, and water salinity as the key environmental factors to build HSI models. The dependent variable of these environmental factors was the mangrove biomass per unit area. Significant differences were found for the mangrove biomass on different substrata and shore elevations. The tidal creek had the lowest elevation, and mangrove areas were found at the highest elevations. The oxidization level of the substrate under mangrove forests was high, indicating that the root system of mangroves could carry oxygen into the soil and result in oxidation. Human activities were found to lead to the reduced growth conditions of mangroves. The validation of the HSI model, considering the inundation frequency and soil sorting coefficient, proved to be reliable, with an accuracy ranging from 78% to 90%. A better simulation was found after revising the model by incorporating the factor of water salinity. The model forecast of the mangrove responses to the sea-level rise indicated an increase in the inundation frequency and thus an induced shift and shrinkage of the mangrove area. The increased HSI values of the bare mudflat area demonstrate an option for the potential restoration of mangrove trees. Given the findings of this study, we concluded that mangroves could spread from estuaries to upstream areas due to rising sea levels and might be limited by humanmade impacts. Restoring degraded floodplains is suggested for mangrove habitat rehabilitation.
Impact of Steaming Mode on Chemical Characteristics and Colour of Birch Wood
Authors: Geffert Anton , Geffertová Jarmila , Výbohová Eva , Dudiak Michal
Published: April 2020

The aim of this work was to evaluate the changes of the chemical components in birch wood (Betula pendula Roth) caused by steaming with saturated steam at three temperatures—105 °C, 125 °C and 135 °C. In the samples of the original wood and wood after steaming, select chemical characteristics were determined, and wood, isolated holocellulose and Seiferts’s cellulose were analysed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. The greatest changes in the birch wood characteristics were observed in steaming mode III (135 °C). The differential spectra of the birch wood samples indicated that the hemicelluloses were significantly degraded and that the dehydration reactions were able to proceed. A clear increase in both unconjugated and conjugated carbonyls was seen only in mode III. The findings also confirmed the greater sensitivity of the guaiacyl lignin contained in broadleaves to elevated steaming temperatures, as well as the course of the thermal oxidation reactions and the formation of new carboxyls in mode III. The decrease in the ratio of absorbances H 1732/2900 and H 1243/2900 demonstrated the cleavage of acyl (acetyl and formyl) groups from birch wood hemicelluloses. The qualitative and quantitative changes of the hemicelluloses and extractive substances in birch wood during steaming were well-correlated with the measured pH values and wood colour.
Review of Research into the Determination of Acrylamide in Foods
Authors: Pan Mingfei , Liu Kaixin , Yang Jingying , Hong Liping , Xie Xiaoqian , Wang Shuo
Published: April 2020

Acrylamide (AA) is produced by high-temperature processing of high carbohydrate foods, such as frying and baking, and has been proved to be carcinogenic. Because of its potential carcinogenicity, it is very important to detect the content of AA in foods. In this paper, the conventional instrumental analysis methods of AA in food and the new rapid immunoassay and sensor detection are reviewed, and the advantages and disadvantages of various analysis technologies are compared, in order to provide new ideas for the development of more efficient and practical analysis methods and detection equipment.
Various Statistical Approaches to Assess and Predict Carcass and Meat Quality Traits
Authors: Ellies-Oury Marie-Pierre , Hocquette Jean-François , Chriki Sghaier , Conanec Alexandre , Farmer Linda , Chavent Marie , Saracco Jérôme
Published: April 2020

The beef industry is organized around different stakeholders, each with their own expectations, sometimes antagonistic. This article first outlines these differing perspectives. Then, various optimization models that might integrate all these expectations are described. The final goal is to define practices that could increase value for animal production, carcasses and meat whilst simultaneously meeting the main expectations of the beef industry. Different models previously developed worldwide are proposed here. Two new computational methodologies that allow the simultaneous selection of the best regression models and the most interesting covariates to predict carcass and/or meat quality are developed. Then, a method of variable clustering is explained that is accurate in evaluating the interrelationships between different parameters of interest. Finally, some principles for the management of quality trade-offs are presented and the Meat Standards Australia model is discussed. The “Pareto front” is an interesting approach to deal jointly with the different sets of expectations and to propose a method that could optimize all expectations together.
Korean Red Ginseng Suppresses the Expression of Oxidative Stress Response and NLRP3 Inflammasome Genes in Aged C57BL/6 Mouse Ovaries
Authors: Chei Sungwoo , Oh Hyun-Ji , Jang Hoon , Lee Kippeum , Jin Heegu , Choi Youngsok , Lee Boo-Yong
Published: April 2020

Female infertility and subfertility have been increasing in prevalence worldwide. One contributing factor is ovarian function, which is highly age-dependent. Korean red ginseng is widely used as an herbal medicine and has many beneficial properties. We aimed to determine the effect of the Korean red ginseng saponin fraction (KRGSF) on ovarian function in female C57BL/6 mice. Ovaries were isolated from 6- and 12-month-old female mice and treated with KRGSF, and then RNA was extracted and microarray analysis was performed. The expression of key genes was subsequently verified using quantitative RT-PCR. Aging markedly increased the expression of genes encoding oxidative stress factors and NLRP3 inflammasome components, but the expression of these genes was significantly reduced by KRGSF treatment. Thus, the reduction in ovarian health with age is associated with greater oxidative stress response and inflammation, but KRGSF treatment may limit these age-related changes.
Tangsa and Wancho of North-East India Use Animals not only as Food and Medicine but also as Additional Cultural Attributes
Authors: Jugli Salomi , Chakravorty Jharna , Meyer-Rochow Victor Benno
Published: April 2020

Cultural and ritual uses of animals beyond those for food and medicine should not be dismissed if we wish to understand the pressure that wildlife is under. We documented such uses for the Tangsa and Wancho tribals of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh (India). Group discussions with assembled members of 10 accessible villages in each of the tribal areas were carried out in 2015 and 2016. Vernacular names of culturally important species were noted and details of hunting practices were recorded. The different uses of animals and their parts during rituals and festivals and their significance in decorations and adornments, in supernatural beliefs and in connection with tribal folklore (stories) are documented. Folklore helps us understand why some species are hunted and consumed while others for no apparent reason are killed or simply ignored. Similarities as well as differences between the two tribes were recorded and possible reasons for the differences are given. The roles that the government as well as the tribal leaders play to halt or slow down the erosion and gradual disappearance of traditions that define the two cultures without losing already rare and endangered species are highlighted.
Influence of Demographic Factors on Sheepmeat Sensory Scores of American, Australian and Chinese Consumers
Authors: O’Reilly Rachel A. , Pannier Liselotte , Gardner Graham E. , Garmyn Andrea J. , Luo Hailing , Meng Qingxiang , Miller Markus F. , Pethick David W.
Published: April 2020

Along with animal production factors, it is important to understand whether demographic factors influence untrained consumer perceptions of eating quality. This study examined the impact of demographic factors and sheepmeat consumption preferences on eating quality scores of American, Australian and Chinese untrained consumers. M. longissimus lumborum (LL) and m. semimembranosus (SM) were grilled according to sheep Meat Standards Australia protocols and evaluated by 2160 consumers for tenderness, juiciness, flavour and overall liking. Linear mixed effects models were used to analyse the impact of demographic factors and sheepmeat consumption habits on eating quality scores. Consumer age, gender, number of adults in a household and income had the strongest effect on sensory scores (P ≤ 0.05), although, the impact was often different across countries. Frequency of lamb consumption had an impact on sensory scores of American, Australian and Chinese consumers but larger sample sizes in some underrepresented subclasses for Australian and Chinese consumers are needed. Results suggest it is important to balance sensory panels for demographic factors of age, gender, number of adults and income to ensure sensory preferences are accurately represented for these particular populations.
Twelve-Month Studies on Perilla Oil Intake in Japanese Adults—Possible Supplement for Mental Health
Authors: Hashimoto Michio , Matsuzaki Kentaro , Kato Setsushi , Hossain Shahdat , Ohno Miho , Shido Osamu
Published: April 2020

Perilla oil (PO), rich in α-linolenic acid (LNA, C18:3, ω-3), is increasingly alleged to have numerous health benefits in humans. However, the current reports detailing the effects of PO on human mental health are not adequate. Therefore, in the current investigation we compared the effects of PO or placebo treatment on the mental condition of healthy adult Japanese volunteers. At baseline and after 12 months of treatment, mental health condition was assessed using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Apathy Scale, and serum biochemical parameters were determined. From baseline to 12 months of intervention, both SDS depression and apathy scores improved significantly in the PO-administered group. Compared to those of control group, serum norepinephrine and serotonin levels after 12 months decreased in the PO-administered group. The enhanced mental state observed in PO-subjects was accompanied by LNA level increases in erythrocyte plasma membranes. Our data demonstrate that PO intake enhances blood LNA levels and may maintain healthy mental conditions in adult subjects.
Formation of Acrylamide and other Heat-Induced Compounds during Panela Production
Authors: Mesias Marta , Delgado-Andrade Cristina , Gómez-Narváez Faver , Contreras-Calderón José , Morales Francisco J.
Published: April 2020

Non-centrifugal cane sugar (panela) is an unrefined sugar obtained through intense dehydration of sugarcane juice. Browning, antioxidant capacity (measured by ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay and total phenolic content) and the formation of acrylamide and other heat-induced compounds such as hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and furfural, were evaluated at different stages during the production of block panela. Values ranged between below the limit of quantitation (LOQ)–890 µg/kg, < LOQ–2.37 mg/kg, < LOQ–4.5 mg/kg, 0.51–3.6 Abs 420 nm/g, 0.89–4.18 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and 5.08–29.70 µmol TE/g, for acrylamide, HMF, furfural, browning, total phenolic content and ABTS (all data in fresh weight), respectively. Acrylamide significantly increased as soluble solid content increased throughout the process. The critical stages for the formation of acrylamide, HMF and furfural were the concentration of the clarified juice in the concentration stage to get the panela honey and the final stage. Similar trends were observed for the other parameters. This research concludes that acrylamide, HMF and furfural form at a high rate during panela processing at the stage of juice concentration by intense evaporation. Therefore, the juice concentration stage is revealed as the critical step in the process to settle mitigation strategies.
Rapid Methods for Assessing Food Safety and Quality
Authors: Visciano Pierina , Schirone Maria
Published: April 2020

Food safety represents a central issue for the global food chain and a daily concern for all people. Contaminated food by physical, biological or chemical hazards can harm consumers, increasing demand for health services, government expenditure on public health and other social costs. The quality assurance programs are based on the continuous monitoring of raw matter, production process, storage and distribution of the end products, including the purpose for which they are intended. Such programs represent an important objective for food producers, not only for the potential risk to human health, but also for the economic losses to which they can be subjected. The development and use of rapid analytical methods able to identify the main failures in food production can benefit food companies by saving time and costs for the good and fast control of products through the entire food chain.