bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HuR Reduces Radiation-Induced DNA Damage by Enhancing Expression of ARID1A
Authors: Andrade Daniel , Mehta Meghna , Griffith James , Oh Sangphil , Corbin Joshua , Babu Anish , De Supriyo , Chen Allshine , Zhao Yan D. , Husain Sanam , Roy Sudeshna , Xu Liang , Aube Jeffrey , Janknecht Ralf , Gorospe Myriam , Herman Terence , Ramesh Rajagopal , Munshi Anupama
Published: December 2019

Tumor suppressor ARID1A, a subunit of the chromatin remodeling complex SWI/SNF, regulates cell cycle progression, interacts with the tumor suppressor TP53, and prevents genomic instability. In addition, ARID1A has been shown to foster resistance to cancer therapy. By promoting non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), ARID1A enhances DNA repair. Consequently, ARID1A has been proposed as a promising therapeutic target to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation. Here, we report that ARID1A is regulated by human antigen R (HuR), an RNA-binding protein that is highly expressed in a wide range of cancers and enables resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. Our results indicate that HuR binds ARID1A mRNA, thereby increasing its stability in breast cancer cells. We further find that ARID1A expression suppresses the accumulation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) caused by radiation and can rescue the loss of radioresistance triggered by HuR inhibition, suggesting that ARID1A plays an important role in HuR-driven resistance to radiation. Taken together, our work shows that HuR and ARID1A form an important regulatory axis in radiation resistance that can be targeted to improve radiotherapy in breast cancer patients.
Aberrant Protein Phosphorylation in Cancer by Using Raman Biomarkers
Authors: Abramczyk Halina , Imiela Anna , Brożek-Płuska Beata , Kopeć Monika , Surmacki Jakub , Śliwińska Agnieszka
Published: December 2019

(1) Background: Novel methods are required for analysing post-translational modifications of protein phosphorylation by visualizing biochemical landscapes of proteins in human normal and cancerous tissues and cells. (2) Methods: A label-free Raman method is presented for detecting spectral changes that arise in proteins due to phosphorylation in the tissue of human breasts, small intestines, and brain tumours, as well as in the normal human astrocytes and primary glioblastoma U-87 MG cell lines. Raman spectroscopy and Raman imaging are effective tools for monitoring and analysing the vibrations of functional groups involved in aberrant phosphorylation in cancer without any phosphorecognition of tag molecules. (3) Results: Our results based on 35 fresh human cancer and normal tissues prove that the aberrant tyrosine phosphorylation monitored by the unique spectral signatures of Raman vibrations is a universal characteristic in the metabolic regulation in different types of cancers. Overexpressed tyrosine phosphorylation in the human breast, small intestine and brain tissues and in the human primary glioblastoma U-87 MG cell line was monitored by using Raman biomarkers. (4) We showed that the bands at 1586 cm−1 and 829 cm−1, corresponding to phosphorylated tyrosine, play a pivotal role as a Raman biomarker of the phosphorylation status in aggressive cancers. We found that the best Raman biomarker of phosphorylation is the 1586/829 ratio showing the statistical significance at p Values of ≤ 0.05. (5) Conclusions: Raman spectroscopy and imaging have the potential to be used as screening functional assays to detect phosphorylated target proteins and will help researchers to understand the role of phosphorylation in cellular processes and cancer progression. The abnormal and excessive high level of tyrosine phosphorylation in cancer samples compared with normal samples was found in the cancerous human tissue of breasts, small intestines and brain tumours, as well as in the mitochondria and lipid droplets of the glioblastoma U-87 MG cell line. Detailed insights are presented into the intracellular oncogenic metabolic pathways mediated by phosphorylated tyrosine.
What Is the Role of Interleukins in Breast Cancer Bone Metastases? A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Salamanna Francesca , Borsari Veronica , Contartese Deyanira , Costa Viviana , Giavaresi Gianluca , Fini Milena
Published: December 2019

Breast cancer cells produce stimulators of bone resorption known as interleukins (ILs). However, data on the functional roles of ILs in the homing of metastatic breast cancer to bone are still fragmented. A systematic search was carried out in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection) to identify preclinical reports, and in three clinical registers (ClinicalTrials.gov, World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, European Union (EU) Clinical Trials Register) to identify clinical trials, from 2008 to 2019. Sixty-seven preclinical studies and 11 clinical trials were recognized as eligible. Although preclinical studies identified specific key ILs which promote breast cancer bone metastases, which have pro-metastatic effects (e.g., IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-11), and whose inhibition also shows potential preclinical therapeutic effects, the clinical trials focused principally on ILs (IL-2 and IL-12), which have an anti-metastatic effect and a potential to generate a localized and systemic antitumor response. However, these clinical trials are yet to post any results or conclusions. This inconsistency indicates that further studies are necessary to further develop the understanding of cellular and molecular relations, as well as signaling pathways, both up- and downstream of ILs, which could represent a novel strategy to treat tumors that are resistant to standard care therapies for patients affected by breast cancer bone disease.
Biodiesel Production Using Bauxite in Low-Cost Solid Base Catalyst Precursors
Authors: Dai Yong-Ming , Hsieh Cheng-Hsuan , Lin Jia-Hao , Chen Fu-Hsuan , Chen Chiing-Chang
Published: December 2019

Investigation was conducted on bauxite mixed with Li2CO3 as alkali metal catalysts for biodiesel production. Bauxite contains a high percentage of Si and Al compounds among products. Because of the high expense of commercial materials (SiO2, Al2O3) that makes them not economical, the method was very recently improved by replacing commercial materials with Si and Al from bauxite. This is one of the easiest methods for preparing heterogeneous transesterification catalysts, through one-pot blending, grinding bauxite with Li2CO3, and heating at 800 °C for 4 h. The prepared solid-base alkali metal catalyst was characterized in terms of its physical and chemical properties using X-ray powder diffraction and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The optimal conditions for the transesterification procedure are to mix methanol oil by molar ratio 9:1, under 65 °C, with catalyst amount 3 wt.%. The procedure is suitable for transesterifying oil to fatty acid methyl ester in the 96% range.
A FEA-Based Methodology to Predict the Osteotome Wear Status during Nasal Bone Surgical Operations
Authors: Skordaris G. , Stergioudi F. , Boumpakis A. , Stergioudi D. , Behrbohm H.
Published: December 2019

A FEA-based methodology was developed in order to predict the wear status of an osteotome (surgical instrument) during its use in a lateral nasal bone osteotomy considering its fatigue strength. The latter parameter was determined by appropriate FEM-evaluation of the perpendicular impact test results. For the simulation of the surgical procedure, two scenarios were examined: (i) when utilizing a brand new osteotome and (ii) when utilizing an already used osteotome characterized by decreased fatigue strength. The actual nasal bone geometry used in the FEA model was obtained from a high-resolution, maxillofacial, computed tomography (CT) scan of a single patient. In both cases examined, depiction of fracture patterns for the osteotome and the nasal bone were obtained. The wear of a new osteotome and an already used osteotome was also calculated and compared. The developed von Mises stresses in both the osteotome and nasal bone were depicted. The proposed methodology allowed an accurate prediction of the critical number of impacts that the osteotome can receive during the lateral nasal osteotomy which is followed in all rhinoplasties. Based on the developed methodology, a preventive replacement of the osteotome before its extensive fracture can be determined, thereby minimizing the risk of postoperative complications.
Investigation on Microstructure, Hardness, and Corrosion Resistance of Mo–Ni–B Coatings Prepared by Laser Cladding Technique
Authors: Ni Xiaojie , Wang Shengze , Zhao Yuantao , Li Wenge , Jiao Xiong
Published: December 2019

The hard and corrosion resistant coatings of Mo2NiB2 cermet were prepared by the laser cladding technique. The influences of the Mo:B ratio and the laser scanning speed on the microstructure and property of the Mo2NiB2 cermet coatings were investigated. The results showed that the laser scanning speed of 1.5 mm/s and the Mo:B ratio of 1 were more beneficial to the formation of Mo2NiB2 cermet than 2.0 mm/s and 0.8, 1.2, respectively. The amount of the Mo2NiB2 ceramic phases were decreased from the top layer to the bottom layer of the coating. The changes of microstructure and composition led to the changes of hardness and corrosion resistance of the Mo2NiB2 cermet coatings. The coating prepared at the Mo:B ratio of 1 and the scanning speed of 1.5 mm/s possessed the highest hardness, and the hardness gradually decreased from the top layer to the bottom layer of the coating. The formation of Mo2NiB2 and {FeM} phases led to the enhanced corrosion resistance of the Mo2NiB2 cermet coatings, and the coating prepared at the Mo:B ratio of 0.8 possessed the best corrosion resistance and the minimum corrosion current.
Chemical Compounds Responsible for Skin Allergy to Complex Mixtures: How to Identify Them?
Authors: Giménez-Arnau Elena
Published: December 2019

In the cosmetics industry, various natural complex mixtures such as botanical extracts and essential oils are used. In addition, finished consumer products may contain a number of constituents of natural origin but many products are derived from organic synthesis too. Hence, finding skin sensitizers within this myriad of chemicals is an arduous task. Nowadays, methods validated by European dedicated instances to evaluate the allergenicity of chemicals are incapable of predicting the sensitization potential of complex mixtures, although research has progressed a lot in this direction recently. In this context, precisely identifying the culprit(s) responsible for skin sensitization in these mixtures is essential for risk assessment. This review is a short summary of approaches that identify allergens in chemical mixtures such as bioassay-guided chemical fractionation, structure–activity relationship studies, and recent methods allowing identification of reactive intermediates in natural extracts exposed to air oxidation. It is shown that substantial progress has been made, although the identification of sensitizers in complex mixtures continues to be puzzling.
Cryoconservation of Animal Genetic Resources in Europe and Two African Countries: A Gap Analysis
Authors: Leroy Gregoire , Boettcher Paul , Besbes Badi , Danchin-Burge Coralie , Baumung Roswitha , Hiemstra Sipke J.
Published: December 2019

Cryoconservation is one of the main strategies to conserve farm animal genetic resources, providing opportunities for genetic improvement and adaptation to changes in production environments and consumer demands. In this study, we combine livestock breed-related data from the Domesticated Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) and information provided by gene banks from 15 European and 2 non-European countries on material stored for livestock breeds to analyze the gaps in cryomaterial collections according to species, countries and various breed categories. Out of the 2949 breeds registered in DAD-IS for these countries, 15.9% have been reported to have material stored in gene banks, but only 4.3% have material sufficient to allow breed reconstitution. The proportion of breeds with stored cryomaterial was greater than 20% for ruminants and pigs, between 10% and 20% for equids, and below 10% for rabbit and avian species. According to the results of two logistic regressions, countries show significant differences in the proportion of populations collected for cryostorage, while breeds not-at-risk are more likely to have cryomaterial preserved than are other breeds. Also, a relatively larger proportion of transboundary breeds have cryomaterial in gene banks than do local breeds, likely due in part to the fact that multiple countries have the opportunity to collect this material. These results highlight the need for increased efforts in material collection for at-risk local breeds and regional coordination on cryoconservation of material from transboundary breeds.
Nanoparticle-Based Biosensing Assay for Universally Accessible Low-Cost TB Detection with Comparable Sensitivity as Culture
Authors: Briceno Ruben Kenny , Sergent Shane Ryan , Benites Santiago Moises , Alocilja Evangelyn C.
Published: December 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death globally, surpassing HIV. Furthermore, multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant TB have become global public health threats. Care of TB patients starts with quality, accessible, and affordable diagnosis. The study presents a novel technique called nanoparticle-based colorimetric biosensing assay (NCBA) based on the principles of magnetically activated cell enrichment. A total of 1108 sputum samples were subjected to sputum smear microscopy (SSM), NCBA, and standard culture. SSM and NCBA were completed in 20 min; culture was completed in 8 weeks. Results show that NCBA has matching sensitivity of 100.0% and specificity of 99.7% compared to the gold standard culture method at a cost of $0.50/test based on Peruvian conditions. Sputum smear microscopy has 63.87% sensitivity compared to culture. NCBA has the potential of being used in local health clinics as it only requires a microscope that is widely available in many rural areas. Because NCBA could detect low levels of bacterial load comparable to culture, it could be used for rapid and early TB-onset detection. The gain in time is critical as TB is airborne and highly infectious, minimizing contact exposure. Early detection could lead to early treatment, while the patient’s immune system is still high. The low cost makes NCBA affordable and accessible to those who need them the most.
Four-Dimensional Flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Assessment of Velocity Magnitudes and Flow Patterns in The Human Carotid Artery Bifurcation: Comparison with Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Ngo Minh Tri , Kim Chul In , Jung Jinmu , Chung Gyung Ho , Lee Dong Hwan , Kwak Hyo Sung
Published: December 2019

Purpose: Knowledge of the hemodynamics in the vascular system is important to understand and treat vascular pathology. The present study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamics in the human carotid artery bifurcation measured by four-dimensional (4D) flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as compared to computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Methods: This protocol used MRI data of 12 healthy volunteers for the 3D vascular models and 4D flow MRI measurements for the boundary conditions in CFD simulation. We compared the velocities measured at the carotid bifurcation and the 3D velocity streamlines of the carotid arteries obtained by these two methods. Results: There was a good agreement for both maximum and minimum velocity values between the 2 methods for velocity magnitude at the bifurcation plane. However, on the 3D blood flow visualization, secondary flows, and recirculation regions are of poorer quality when visualized through the 4D flow MRI. Conclusion: 4D flow MRI and CFD show reasonable agreement in demonstrated velocity magnitudes at the carotid artery bifurcation. However, the visualization of blood flow at the recirculation regions and the assessment of secondary flow characteristics should be enhanced for the use of 4D flow MRI in clinical situations.
The Fractional View of Complexity
Authors: Lopes António M. , Tenreiro Machado J.A.
Published: December 2019

Fractal analysis and fractional differential equations have been proven as useful tools for describing the dynamics of complex phenomena characterized by long memory and spatial heterogeneity [...]
Finite Amplitude Stability of Internal Steady Flows of the Giesekus Viscoelastic Rate-Type Fluid
Authors: Dostalík Mark , Průša Vít , Tůma Karel
Published: December 2019

Using a Lyapunov type functional constructed on the basis of thermodynamical arguments, we investigate the finite amplitude stability of internal steady flows of viscoelastic fluids described by the Giesekus model. Using the functional, we derive bounds on the Reynolds and the Weissenberg number that guarantee the unconditional asymptotic stability of the corresponding steady internal flow, wherein the distance between the steady flow field and the perturbed flow field is measured with the help of the Bures–Wasserstein distance between positive definite matrices. The application of the theoretical results is documented in the finite amplitude stability analysis of Taylor–Couette flow.
Integrating Undergraduate Research into Social Science Curriculum: Benefits and Challenges of Two Models
Authors: Crowe Jessica , Boe Austin
Published: December 2019

Evidence shows that undergraduate research is beneficial to students during their college years and beyond. This study evaluates two models for integrating undergraduate research into the college curriculum: (1) integrating a community-based research project into a social science course and (2) designing a senior seminar course as an undergraduate research experience. Findings show that students benefit from a hands-on research experience that deepens their understanding of both survey methods and social issues. While, students who participated in the community-based research project enjoyed interacting with community members and learning about community concerns, students in the senior seminar research experience ranked all aspects of the research project more favorably than students participating in the community-based research project. We discuss the benefits and challenges of both models as well as the implications of these findings and the steps instructors can take to improve the learning experience of undergraduates in the social sciences.
Nonscientific University Students Training in General Science Using an Active-Learning Merged Pedagogy: Gamification in a Flipped Classroom
Authors: Zamora-Polo Francisco , Corrales-Serrano Mario , Sánchez-Martín Jesús , Espejo-Antúnez Luis
Published: December 2019

Innovative teaching strategies are designing a new and promising landscape in education. They fill lessons with creativity and imagination for either the students or teachers. This article addresses an attempt to make the approach to science easier in a nonscientific environment: primary education at university level. Gamification methodologies were combined with a flipped classroom in order to free up in-class time and engage the students with the taught courses. A qualitative study was merged with quantitative measures of emotional and motivational parameters. These results were improved with four semistructured interviews. The results clearly showed a rise in the students’ motivational levels, an acknowledgment of good teaching practices, and an evident enhancement of felt positive emotions toward science teaching and scientific issues.
Application of Artificial Neural Network for the Optimum Control of HVAC Systems in Double-Skinned Office Buildings
Authors: Seo Byeongmo , Yoon Yeo Beom , Mun Jung Hyun , Cho Soolyeon
Published: December 2019

Double Skin Façade (DSF) systems have become an alternative to the environmental and energy savings issues. DSF offers thermal buffer areas that can provide benefits to the conditioned spaces in the form of improved comforts and energy savings. There are many studies conducted to resolve issues about the heat captured inside DSF. Various window control strategies and algorithms were introduced to minimize the heat gain of DSF in summer. However, the thermal condition of the DSF causes a time lag between the response time of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) system and cooling loads of zones. This results in more cooling energy supply or sometimes less than required, making the conditioned zones either too cold or warm. It is necessary to operate the HVAC system in consideration of all conditions, i.e., DSF internal conditions and indoor environment, as well as proper DSF window controls. This paper proposes an optimal air supply control for a DSF office building located in a hot and humid climate. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based control was developed and tested for its effectiveness. Results show a 10.5% cooling energy reduction from the DSF building compared to the non-DSF building with the same HVAC control. Additionally, 4.5% more savings were observed when using the ANN-based control.
Analysis of the Electrical Quantities Measured by Revenue Meters Under Different Voltage Distortions and the Influences on the Electrical Energy Billing
Authors: da Silva Roberto Perillo Barbosa , Quadros Rodolfo , Shaker Hamid Reza , da Silva Luiz Carlos Pereira
Published: December 2019

This paper evaluates the impact of voltage distortion on the electrical quantities measured by revenue meters and the influences on the electrical energy billing. This is done through an experimental setup, which combines the following variables for the first time in an experiment: different total harmonic voltage distortion (THDv) levels; among these levels, different harmonic profiles; and different loads. A programmable alternating current (AC) power source was used in the laboratory to apply voltage signals in three electronic loads: a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and two light emitting diode (LED) lighting devices for which voltage signals with THDv 4.9%, 18.8% and 24.5% have been applied. All applied signals contain one or more harmonic order more commonly found in the low voltage grid (3rd, 5th and 7th). For these analyses, a power quality analyzer and a revenue meter were used. The results show that significant and diverse effects on the electrical quantities of individual loads will occur with different THDv levels and harmonic profiles. Comparing with a reference case (sinusoidal condition), when a distorted signal was applied, for the same THDv level, some parameters remained numerically the same, some have improved and some have become worse. This study shows that the effects of combination of the variables such as different THDv level with different harmonic profiles on electrical quantities of loads are not as clear as the effects of considering only one variable. The results of this paper shed light on such effects.
Adhesion-Increased Carbon Nanowalls for the Electrodes of Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Choi Hyeokjoo , Kwon Seokhun , Kang Hyunil , Kim Jung Hyun , Choi Wonseok
Published: December 2019

Carbon nanowalls (CNWs), which are used as electrodes for secondary batteries in energy storage systems (ESSs), have the widest reaction surface area among the carbon-based nanomaterials, but their application is rare due to their low adhesion with substrates. Indium tin oxide (ITO), a representative transparent conducting oxide (TCO) material, is widely used as the electrode for displays, solar cells, etc. Titanium nitride (TiN) is a well-used material as an interlayer for improving the adhesion between two materials. In this study, ITO or TiN thin films were used as an interlayer to improve the adhesion between a CNW and a substrate. The interlayer was deposited on the substrate using a radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering system with a four-inch TiN or ITO target. CNWs were grown on the interlayer-coated substrate using a microwave-plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (MPECVD) system with a mixture of methane (CH4) and hydrogen (H2) gases. The adhesion of the CNW/interlayer/substrate structure was observed through ultrasonic cleaning.
Effects of Intercooling and Inter-Stage Heat Recovery on the Performance of Two-Stage Transcritical CO2 Cycles for Residential Heating Applications
Authors: Ma Juanli , Mhanna Ahmad , Juan Neil , Brands Monica , Fung Alan S.
Published: December 2019

Due to the harmful effects of synthetic refrigerants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)n the environment, natural refrigerants like carbon dioxide (CO2) have been attracting great interest. The higher inter-stage superheating of CO2 makes it difficult to predict the effects of the intercooling on heating performance of a two-stage transcritical CO2 cycle. In addition, very little is known about the potential of inter-stage heat rejection recovery in the heating performance enhancement of this cycle. In order to explore the effects of intercooling and inter-stage heat rejection recovery potential, three “sub-cycles”—(1) a sub-cycle with heat recovery, (2) a sub-cycle without heat recovery, and (3) a sub-cycle without intercooling—were modeled in Engineering Equation Solver (EES) software for three commonly-used two-stage transcritical cycles: (1) an intercooler cycle, (2) a flash cycle, and (3) a split cycle. Then, the discharge pressure and intermediate pressure were simultaneously optimized. Based on the optimization results, the heating performance of the sub-cycles for each cycle were compared. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of intercooling without heat recovery was detrimental to the heating performance in comparison to the absence of intercooling. It is also clear that there is a great potential for heating performance improvement through inter-stage heat recovery.
Performance Evaluation of an Anti Gas-Channeling System (Asphalt-Rigid Particle-Xanthan Gum) Applied in High-Temperature and High-Salinity Fractured Reservoir
Authors: Lai Nanjun , Wen Yiping , Wen Xiaohu , He Wei , Lin Xiaosha , Jia Chao , Hu Dong
Published: December 2019

Asphalt and rigid particles have been chosen as the main blocking agent for solving the anti gas-channeling in high-temperature and high-salinity reservoirs. Particle size range and the concentration of suspending agent were firstly determined, and the influence factors on bonding effect between two materials in the high-temperature environment were then studied. An orthogonal experiment involving three factors (the content of rigid particles and asphalt, and softening point) and four levels was designed to investigate the impact order of the three factors on anti gas-channeling performance, and the optimization scheme has been identified. Results showed that the importance sequence of the factors was C rigid particles > C asphalt > softening point. By verifying the optimization scheme, the plugging ratio of this agent can reach more than 86.24% for 2 mm fractured core in high-temperature and high-salinity environments. The system was evenly distributed in the internal fractures, occupied the fractures completely, and had a certain height of accumulation. The micromorphology observations of the optimal scheme showed that the softened asphalt demonstrated its ‘amoeba’ characteristic and bonded with the surrounding rigid particles. The asphalt filled in the pore which was formed by bridging rigid particles to guarantee the blocking layer did not collapse or was carried by high-pressure N2-flow. This approach can potentially solve gas-channeling problems in reservoirs with serious environments.
Method of Early Detection of Cyber-Attacks on Telecommunication Networks Based on Traffic Analysis by Extreme Filtering
Authors: Privalov Andrey , Lukicheva Vera , Kotenko Igor , Saenko Igor
Published: December 2019

The paper suggests a method of early detection of cyber-attacks by using DDoS attacks as an example) using the method of extreme filtering in a mode close real time. The process of decomposition of the total signal (additive superposition of attacking and legitimate effects) and its decomposition using the method of extreme filtering is simulated. A profile model of a stochastic network is proposed. This allows to specify the influence of the intruder on the network using probabilistic-time characteristics. Experimental evaluation of metrics characterizing the cyber-attack is given. It is demonstrated how obtained values of metrics confirm the process of attack preparation, for instance the large-scaled telecommunication network, which includes the proposed method for early detection of attacks, has a recovery time of no more than 9 s, and the parameters of quality of service remain in an acceptable range.
Numerical Simulation of Temperature and Pressure Changes due to Partial Discharges in Spherical Cavities Within Solid Dielectrics at Different Ageing Conditions
Authors: Rodríguez-Serna Johnatan M. , Albarracín-Sánchez Ricardo
Published: December 2019

Partial Discharges (PD) behavior during ageing of the insulation systems exhibits variations that depend on changes in gas filling characteristics and surface condition. In this article, numerical simulations of temperature and pressure behavior in an air-filled spherical cavity within a homogenous solid dielectric material due to PD activity are presented. An Analytical-Finite Element Analysis simulation approach was implemented in MATLAB and results exhibit reasonable agreement with experimental measurements reported by other authors. Simulation results allow concluding that pressure changes are directly related to variations in the PD behavior. In addition, affectations to cavity surface due to temperature increments can be discarded.
Data-Driven Ohmic Resistance Estimation of Battery Packs for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Liang Kaizhi , Zhang Zhaosheng , Liu Peng , Wang Zhenpo , Jiang Shangfeng
Published: December 2019

Accurate state-of-health (SOH) estimation for battery packs in electric vehicles (EVs) plays a pivotal role in preventing battery fault occurrence and extending their service life. In this paper, a novel internal ohmic resistance estimation method is proposed by combining electric circuit models and data-driven algorithms. Firstly, an improved recursive least squares (RLS) is used to estimate the internal ohmic resistance. Then, an automatic outlier identification method is presented to filter out the abnormal ohmic resistance estimated under different temperatures. Finally, the ohmic resistance estimation model is established based on the Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) regression algorithm and inputs of temperature and driving distance. The proposed model is examined based on test datasets. The root mean square errors (RMSEs) are less than 4 mΩ while the mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs) are less than 6%. The results show that the proposed method is feasible and accurate, and can be implemented in real-world EVs.
The Influence of Place Attachment on Pro-Environmental Behaviors: The Moderating Effect of Social Media
Authors: Xu Jian , Han Ruixia
Published: December 2019

China is facing tremendous pressure to improve the environment. How to promote pro-environmental behaviors at the individual level is an important research topic. This study examines the relationship between social media usage, place attachment, and pro-environmental behavior based on a survey of 550 Chinese citizens. The results show that: (1) Place attachment and social media usage for environmental information acquisition have positive correlations with pro-environmental behaviors; (2) social media usage for environmental information acquisition moderates the relationship between place attachment and pro-environmental behaviors. Our survey also finds that social media play a more important role than traditional media in influencing pro-environmental behaviors. Our findings indicate that social media is changing the traditional relationship between place attachment and pro-environmental behavior. We should pay more attention to this positive role of social media and encourage citizens’ pro-environmental behavior.
Accelerometry-Based External Load Indicators in Sport: Too Many Options, Same Practical Outcome?
Authors: Gómez-Carmona Carlos D. , Pino-Ortega José , Sánchez-Ureña Braulio , Ibáñez Sergio J. , Rojas-Valverde Daniel
Published: December 2019

With the development of new microsensor technology to assess load in sports, some indicators of external load through accelerometry-based data have been created by sport technology companies. Thus, the study aim was to analyze the agreement between different accelerometry-based external load indicators (ABELIs) available in sport science. A U-16 male soccer team was assessed during three official matches, divided by periods, to obtain 3-D accelerometry data (x, y and z axes). An average of 1,420,000 data points was analyzed per axis per player. The ABELIs were calculated using this information, and the agreement between them was explored. The following ABELIs were considered after a literature review: AcelT, Player LoadRT, PlayerLoadTM, Impulse Load, Player LoadRE and Total Load. In order to compare ABELIs, two analyses were performed using: (1) absolute data; and (2) normalized and centered data (Z-scores). In absolute and centered data, very large to nearly perfect correlations (1st period: r > 0.803, p > 0.01; 2nd period: r > 0.919; p > 0.01) were found. Instead, very large differences were found in absolute values (bias = −579,226.6 to 285,931.1; t = −224.66 to 213.91, p < 0.01), and no differences in scaled and centered values (bias = 0; t = 1; p = 1). In conclusion, considering the different output (magnitude and units) among ABELIs, the standardization of a universal index to calculate accelerometer load is needed in order to make possible between-study comparison.
Long-Term Attitude Change After a Single-Day Manager Training Addressing Mental Health at the Workplace
Authors: Schwarz Elena , Schiller Birgitta , Moertl Kathrin , Weimer Katja , Eisele Marlene , Kauderer Johanna , Papenfuss Falko , Guendel Harald , Hoelzer Michael
Published: December 2019

Mental health problems have become one of the most common causes of incapacity for work, and engender high costs to society. Especially managerial behavior was found to have a great impact on employees’ well-being. In order to support those in leading positions in dealing with their own, as well as their employees’, psychological stress factors, we conducted a specific manager training. At the same time, we wanted to find out about the training’s short- and long-term effects. Participants were asked to give information about their knowledge and attitudes concerning mental health (Mental Health Knowledge Schedule, Social Distance Scale), as well as to comment on their own health condition (12-Item Short Form Health Survey, Patient Health Questionnaire) and working situation (Effort–Reward Inventory, Irritation Scale). Data were collected at baseline, as well as 3 and 12 months after the training. Results show long-term improvements in knowledge and attitudes measured by the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule (MAKS: Mt1 = 22.88, Mt2 = 23.79, Mt3 = 23.79, p = 0.005) but not in the Social Distance Scale (SoDi: Mt1 = 0.96, Mt2 = 0.85, Mt3 = 0.84, p = 0.165). Over the period of time observed, no changes were found regarding health- or work-related instruments. Due to the uncontrolled design of the study, further research is needed to determine the exact effectiveness.
Concrete Preliminary Damage Inspection by Classification of Terrestrial Laser Scanner Point Clouds through Systematic Threshold Definition
Authors: Hadavandsiri Zahra , Lichti Derek D. , Jahraus Adam , Jarron David
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a novel approach for automatic, preliminary detection of damage in concrete structures using ground-based terrestrial laser scanners. The method is based on computation of defect-sensitive features such as the surface curvature, since the surface roughness changes strongly if an area is affected by damage. A robust version of principal component analysis (PCA) classification is proposed to distinguish between structural damage and outliers present in the laser scanning data. Numerical simulations were conducted to develop a systematic point-wise defect classifier that automatically diagnoses the location of superficial damage on the investigated region. The method provides a complete picture of the surface health of concrete structures. It has been tested on two real datasets: a concrete heritage aqueduct in Brooks, Alberta, Canada; and a civil pedestrian concrete structure. The experiment results demonstrate the validity and accuracy of the proposed systematic framework for detecting and localizing areas of damage as small as 1 cm or less.
Exercise as A Potential Therapeutic Target for Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Insight into the Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Seo Dae Yun , Ko Jeong Rim , Jang Jung Eun , Kim Tae Nyun , Youm Jae Boum , Kwak Hyo-Bum , Bae Jun Hyun , Kim Amy Hyein , Ko Kyung Soo , Rhee Byoung Doo , Han Jin
Published: December 2019

Diabetes mellitus is associated with cardiovascular, ophthalmic, and renal comorbidities. Among these, diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) causes the most severe symptoms and is considered to be a major health problem worldwide. Exercise is widely known as an effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of many chronic diseases. Importantly, the onset of complications arising due to diabetes can be delayed or even prevented by exercise. Regular exercise is reported to have positive effects on diabetes mellitus and the development of DCM. The protective effects of exercise include prevention of cardiac apoptosis, fibrosis, oxidative stress, and microvascular diseases, as well as improvement in cardiac mitochondrial function and calcium regulation. This review summarizes the recent scientific findings to describe the potential mechanisms by which exercise may prevent DCM and heart failure.
The Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Is a Relevant Model for Studying Sex-Specific Effects of 17β-Estradiol in the Adult Heart
Authors: Hein Selina , Hassel David , Kararigas Georgios
Published: December 2019

Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and there are significant sex differences therein. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) is thought to play a major role in cardiovascular sex differences and to be protective, but this may not hold true for males. We aimed at assessing whether the zebrafish is an appropriate model for the study of E2 effects in the heart. We hypothesized that E2 regulates the cardiac contractility of adult zebrafish in a sex-specific manner. Male and female zebrafish were treated with vehicle (control) or E2 and the cardiac contractility was measured 0, 4, 7 and 14 days after treatment initiation using echocardiography. There was no significant effect on the heart rate by E2. Notably, there was a significant decrease in the ejection fraction of male zebrafish treated with E2 compared with controls. By contrast, there was no major difference in the ejection fraction between the two female groups. The dramatic effect in male zebrafish occurred as early as 4 days post treatment initiation. Although there was no significant difference in stroke volume and cardiac output between the two male groups, these were significantly higher in female zebrafish treated with E2 compared with controls. Gene expression analysis revealed that the levels of estrogen receptors were comparable among all groups. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that the adult zebrafish heart robustly responds to E2 and this occurs in a sex-specific manner. Given the benefits of using zebrafish as a model, new targets may be identified for the development of novel cardiovascular therapies for male and female patients. This would contribute towards the realization of personalized medicine.
Peptides, Antibodies, Peptide Antibodies and More
Authors: Trier Nicole , Hansen Paul , Houen Gunnar
Published: December 2019

The applications of peptides and antibodies to multiple targets have emerged as powerful tools in research, diagnostics, vaccine development, and therapeutics. Antibodies are unique since they, in theory, can be directed to any desired target, which illustrates their versatile nature and broad spectrum of use as illustrated by numerous applications of peptide antibodies. In recent years, due to the inherent limitations such as size and physical properties of antibodies, it has been attempted to generate new molecular compounds with equally high specificity and affinity, albeit with relatively low success. Based on this, peptides, antibodies, and peptide antibodies have established their importance and remain crucial reagents in molecular biology.
High Mobility Group Box 1 and TLR4 Signaling Pathway in Gnotobiotic Piglets Colonized/Infected with L. amylovorus, L. mucosae, E. coli Nissle 1917 and S. Typhimurium
Authors: Splichal Igor , Donovan Sharon M. , Jenistova Vera , Splichalova Iva , Salmonova Hana , Vlkova Eva , Neuzil Bunesova Vera , Sinkora Marek , Killer Jiri , Skrivanova Eva , Splichalova Alla
Published: December 2019

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a DNA-binding nuclear protein that can be actively secreted by immune cells after different immune stimuli or passively released from cells undergoing necrosis. HMGB1 amplifies inflammation, and its hypersecretion contributes to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and death. We tested possible immunomodulatory effect of commensal Lactobacillus amylovorus (LA), Lactobacillus mucosae (LM) or probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) in infection of gnotobiotic piglets with Salmonella Typhimurium (ST). Transcription of HMGB1 and Toll-like receptors (TLR) 2, 4, and 9 and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), TLR4-related molecules (MD-2, CD14, and LBP), and adaptor proteins (MyD88 and TRIF) in the ileum and colon were measured by RT-qPCR. Expression of TLR4 and its related molecules were highly upregulated in the ST-infected intestine, which was suppressed by EcN, but not LA nor LM. In contrast, HMGB1 expression was unaffected by ST infection or commensal/probiotic administration. HMGB1 protein levels in the intestine measured by ELISA were increased in ST-infected piglets, but they were decreased by previous colonization with E. coli Nissle 1917 only. We conclude that the stability of HMGB1 mRNA expression in all piglet groups could show its importance for DNA transcription and physiological cell functions. The presence of HMGB1 protein in the intestinal lumen probably indicates cellular damage.
Epigenetic Modification as a Regulatory Mechanism for Spatiotemporal Dynamics of ANO1 Expression in Salivary Glands
Authors: Shin Yonghwan , Lee Sang-Woo , Namkoong Eun , An Woojin , Lee Jong-Ho , Brown Peter D , Park Kyungpyo
Published: December 2019

Anoctamin1 (ANO1), a calcium activated chloride channel, is known to play a critical role in salivary secretion. In the salivary gland, ANO1 is expressed exclusively in the acinar cells, with no expression in the ductal cells. However, the mechanisms that determine this distinctive cell type-dependent expression pattern of ANO1 remain unknown. In this study, we discovered that the cell-dependent expression of ANO1 during salivary gland organogenesis is regulated by DNA methylation of ANO1 CpG islands. ANO1 CpG islands in e12 embryonic submandibular glands (eSMG) are highly methylated, but those in e14 eSMG or adult SMG are significantly unmethylated. The differential expression pattern of ANO1 in duct and acini is defined at e14. Artificial demethylation by treatment with the demethylating agent 5-aza-2’-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR), induced the expression of ANO1 in both the ductal cell line Human Submandibular Gland (HSG) and in the duct cells of adult mouse SMG. During the trans-differentiation in Matrigel of duct-origin HSG cells into acinar-like phenotype, significant demethylation of ANO1 CpG islands is observed. This may be due to the reduced expression of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) 3a and 3b. These results suggest that the differential expression of ANO1 in salivary glands during organogenesis and differentiation is mainly regulated by epigenetic demethylation of the ANO1 gene.
Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Brain Following Ozone Exposure in Rats Maintained on Coconut, Fish and Olive Oil-Rich Diets
Authors: Valdez Matthew C. , Freeborn Danielle , Valdez Joseph M. , Johnstone Andrew F.M. , Snow Samantha J. , Tennant Alan H. , Kodavanti Urmila P. , Kodavanti Prasada Rao S.
Published: December 2019

Dietary supplementation with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids offer cardioprotection against air pollution, but these protections have not been established in the brain. We tested whether diets rich in omega-3 or -6 fatty acids offered neuroprotective benefits, by measuring mitochondrial complex enzyme I, II and IV activities and oxidative stress measures in the frontal cortex, cerebellum, hypothalamus, and hippocampus of male rats that were fed either a normal diet, or a diet enriched with fish oil olive oil, or coconut oil followed by exposure to either filtered air or ozone (0.8 ppm) for 4 h/day for 2 days. Results show that mitochondrial complex I enzyme activity was significantly decreased in the cerebellum, hypothalamus and hippocampus by diets. Complex II enzyme activity was significantly lower in frontal cortex and cerebellum of rats maintained on all test diets. Complex IV enzyme activity was significantly lower in the frontal cortex, hypothalamus and hippocampus of animals maintained on fish oil. Ozone exposure decreased complex I and II activity in the cerebellum of rats maintained on the normal diet, an effect blocked by diet treatments. While diet and ozone have no apparent influence on endogenous reactive oxygen species production, they do affect antioxidant levels in the brain. Fish oil was the only diet that ozone exposure did not alter. Microglial morphology and GFAP immunoreactivity were assessed across diet groups; results indicated that fish oil consistently decreased reactive microglia in the hypothalamus and hippocampus. These results indicate that acute ozone exposure alters mitochondrial bioenergetics in brain and co-treatment with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids alleviate some adverse effects within the brain.
Acupuncture Reduces Apoptosis of Granulosa Cells in Rats with Premature Ovarian Failure Via Restoring the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Lin Shujun , Zhu Mingmin , Li Chenglu , Chen Shulian , Pu Liu , Lin Jihuan , Cao Luxi , Zhang Yimin
Published: December 2019

Acupuncture is widely recognized as an effective therapy for premature ovarian failure (POF) in clinical, but information about its potential mechanisms is rarely explored. To investigate the mechanism, fifty SD female rats were randomly divided into normal group, POF group, POF+estradiol-valerate group (abbreviated as estradiol group), and POF+acupuncture group (abbreviated as acupuncture group). The estrous cycle of the rats was tracked by vaginal smears. Their ovaries morphology was observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The apoptotic level of granulosa cells was detected by in situ TUNEL fluorescence staining assay. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen (E2) levels were measured by enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay (ELISA). Protein and gene expression of PI3K, Akt, bcl-2, and bax were detected by Western blotting and qPCR. In the acupuncture and estradiol groups, compared with the POF group as controls, the apoptosis number of granulosa cells was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). FSH levels were decreased, while E2 levels were increased (p > 0.05). The gene and protein expression levels of PI3K, Akt, and bcl-2 were increased, while the expression levels of bax were decreased (p < 0.05), and the protein expression level of p-Akt increased. There was no significant difference between the acupuncture group and the estradiol group (p > 0.05). Acupuncture was able to regulate hormone levels in POF rats, up-regulate PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and reduce the apoptosis of granulosa cells. This may be one of the mechanisms of acupuncture treating premature ovarian failure.