bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Ca2+ in Mediating Plant Responses to Extracellular ATP and ADP
Authors: Clark Greg , Roux Stanley J.
Published: November 2018

Among the most recently discovered chemical regulators of plant growth and development are extracellular nucleotides, especially extracellular ATP (eATP) and extracellular ADP (eADP). Plant cells release ATP into their extracellular matrix under a variety of different circumstances, and this eATP can then function as an agonist that binds to a specific receptor and induces signaling changes, the earliest of which is an increase in the concentration of cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]cyt). This initial change is then amplified into downstream-signaling changes that include increased levels of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide, which ultimately lead to major changes in the growth rate, defense responses, and leaf stomatal apertures of plants. This review presents and discusses the evidence that links receptor activation to increased [Ca2+]cyt and, ultimately, to growth and diverse adaptive changes in plant development. It also discusses the evidence that increased [Ca2+]cyt also enhances the activity of apyrase (nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase) enzymes that function in multiple subcellular locales to hydrolyze ATP and ADP, and thus limit or terminate the effects of these potent regulators.
Risk Factors and Pathogenesis of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder: The Role of Host Genetics
Authors: Olivier Ian Simon , Cacabelos Ramón , Naidoo Vinogran
Published: November 2018

Neurocognitive impairments associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remain a considerable health issue for almost half the people living with HIV, despite progress in HIV treatment through combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). The pathogenesis and risk factors of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) are still incompletely understood. This is partly due to the complexity of HAND diagnostics, as phenotypes present with high variability and change over time. Our current understanding is that HIV enters the central nervous system (CNS) during infection, persisting and replicating in resident immune and supporting cells, with the subsequent host immune response and inflammation likely adding to the development of HAND. Differences in host (human) genetics determine, in part, the effectiveness of the immune response and other factors that increase the vulnerability to HAND. This review describes findings from studies investigating the role of human host genetics in the pathogenesis of HAND, including potential risk factors for developing HAND. The similarities and differences between HAND and Alzheimer’s disease are also discussed. While some specific variations in host genes regulating immune responses and neurotransmission have been associated with protection or risk of HAND development, the effects are generally small and findings poorly replicated. Nevertheless, a few specific gene variants appear to affect the risk for developing HAND and aid our understanding of HAND pathogenesis.
HGF/MET and the Immune System: Relevance for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Papaccio Federica , Della Corte Carminia Maria , Viscardi Giuseppe , Di Liello Raimondo , Esposito Giovanna , Sparano Francesca , Ciardiello Fortunato , Morgillo Floriana
Published: November 2018

An overactivation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) axis promotes tumorigenesis and tumor progression in various cancer types. Research data recently evidenced that HGF/MET signaling is also involved also in the immune response, mainly modulating dendritic cells functions. In general, the pathway seems to play an immunosuppressive role, thus hypothesizing that it could constitute a mechanism of primary and acquired resistance to cancer immunotherapy. Recently, some approaches are being developed, including drug design and cell therapy to combine MET and programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death receptor-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibition. This approach could represent a new weapon in cancer therapy in the future.
Small Molecules Enhance Scaffold-Based Bone Grafts via Purinergic Receptor Signaling in Stem Cells
Authors: Ottensmeyer Patrick Frank , Witzler Markus , Schulze Margit , Tobiasch Edda
Published: November 2018

The need for bone grafts is high, due to age-related diseases, such as tumor resections, but also accidents, risky sports, and military conflicts. The gold standard for bone grafting is the use of autografts from the iliac crest, but the limited amount of accessible material demands new sources of bone replacement. The use of mesenchymal stem cells or their descendant cells, namely osteoblast, the bone-building cells and endothelial cells for angiogenesis, combined with artificial scaffolds, is a new approach. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be obtained from the patient themselves, or from donors, as they barely cause an immune response in the recipient. However, MSCs never fully differentiate in vitro which might lead to unwanted effects in vivo. Interestingly, purinergic receptors can positively influence the differentiation of both osteoblasts and endothelial cells, using specific artificial ligands. An overview is given on purinergic receptor signaling in the most-needed cell types involved in bone metabolism—namely osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells. Furthermore, different types of scaffolds and their production methods will be elucidated. Finally, recent patents on scaffold materials, as wells as purinergic receptor-influencing molecules which might impact bone grafting, are discussed.
European Union Should Actively Stimulate and Harmonise Neonatal Screening Initiatives
Authors: Loeber J.
Published: November 2018

Neonatal screening programmes have been introduced in almost all European countries. In practice there are large differences, especially in the panel of conditions that are screened for, often without clear reasons. Policy making on a European level is lacking in contrast to the situation in the USA. Professionals have the knowledge to expand the panels but are dependent on policy-makers for the necessary funds. This paper is a call on the EU Commission to take up a role in providing equal access to neonatal screening for all children within the EU.
Prototyping a Traffic Light Recognition Device with Expert Knowledge
Authors: Almeida Thiago , Macedo Hendrik , Matos Leonardo , Vasconcelos Nathanael
Published: November 2018

Traffic light detection and recognition (TLR) research has grown every year. In addition, Machine Learning (ML) has been largely used not only in traffic light research but in every field where it is useful and possible to generalize data and automatize human behavior. ML algorithms require a large amount of data to work properly and, thus, a lot of computational power is required to analyze the data. We argue that expert knowledge should be used to decrease the burden of collecting a huge amount of data for ML tasks. In this paper, we show how such kind of knowledge was used to reduce the amount of data and improve the accuracy rate for traffic light detection and recognition. Results show an improvement in the accuracy rate around 15%. The paper also proposes a TLR device prototype using both camera and processing unit of a smartphone which can be used as a driver assistance. To validate such layout prototype, a dataset was built and used to test an ML model based on adaptive background suppression filter (AdaBSF) and Support Vector Machines (SVMs). Results show 100% precision rate and recall of 65%.
Challenges and Opportunities of Crowdsourcing and Participatory Planning in Developing Infrastructure Systems of Smart Cities
Authors: Srivastava Parul , Mostafavi Ali
Published: November 2018

The concept of Smart City aims to provide its citizens with infrastructure systems that make cities safer and more livable. One of the methods for doing so is collecting data from the crowd itself—termed crowdsourcing—and incorporating their ideas to improve the existing facilities, as well as build new ones to cater to their arising needs. This paper aims to inspect the attributes that govern crowdsourcing, evaluating its feasibility in attaining solutions in the present scenario. A systemic review of the existing literature on crowdsourcing platforms was conducted and major findings have been summarized adequately. The areas of environment, disaster management, public safety, innovation, transportation and health have been explored in connection to the existing crowdsourcing platforms and selected examples have been mentioned. Next, the attributes that affect crowdsourcing have been discussed in detail under three broad categories: (1) human characteristics; (2) data characteristics and (3) system characteristics. In the end, some recommendations for improvement in the implementation of the crowdsourcing platforms have been proposed for their enhanced applicability and effectiveness.
Development of a Diagnostic Marker for Phlebotomus papatasi to Initiate a Potential Vector Surveillance Program in North America
Authors: Merchant Austin , Yu Tian , Shi Jizhe , Zhou Xuguo
Published: November 2018

Phlebotomus papatasi, an Old World sand fly species, is primarily responsible for the transmission of leishmaniasis, a highly infectious and potentially lethal disease. International travel, especially military rotations, between domestic locations and P. papatasi-prevalent regions in the Middle East poses an imminent threat to the public health of US citizens. Because of its small size and cryptic morphology, identification of P. papatasi is challenging and labor-intensive. Here, we developed a ribosomal DNA-polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic assay that is capable of detecting P. papatasi genomic DNA from mixed samples containing multiple sand flies native to the Americas. Serial dilution of P. papatasi samples demonstrated that this diagnostic assay could detect one P. papatasi from up to 255 non-target sand flies. Due to its simplicity, sensitivity and specificity, this rapid identification tool is suited for a long-term surveillance program to screen for the presence of P. papatasi in the continental United States and to reveal geographical regions potentially vulnerable to sand fly-borne diseases.
Nutritional Status of Men with Ulcerative Colitis in Remission in a Pair–Matched Case–Control Study
Authors: Głąbska Dominika , Guzek Dominika , Lech Gustaw
Published: November 2018

The aim of the presented research was to analyze the nutritional status of male subjects with ulcerative colitis in remission by using body composition that was assessed by bioelectrical impedance measurement against a gender-matched control group. Forty-four male patients in remission with ulcerative colitis were recruited for the case-control study and simultaneously, a matched control group of 44 male individuals without inflammatory bowel diseases was pair-matched (general community individuals). The body composition measurement was conducted by the bioelectrical impedance method using BodyComp MF Plus and Bodygram Pro 3.0 software. Parameters assessed include body cell mass (BCM), total body water (TBW), extracellular body water (EBW), intracellular body water (IBW), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), muscle mass (MM), and the body cell mass (BCM) index. A significant between-group difference was observed only for EBW, where subjects with ulcerative colitis were characterized by a higher mass of extracellular water (p = 0.0405). Individuals with ulcerative colitis were characterized by a lower BCM share than the control group (p = 0.0192). A comparative analysis of the body composition of male patients with ulcerative colitis with those who did not have ulcerative colitis revealed only minor differences. The risk of malnutrition, assessed using both BMI and bioelectrical impedance, in men with ulcerative colitis in remission is the same as in healthy males in the matched general population.
Accuracy of Commonly-Used Imaging Modalities in Assessing Left Atrial Appendage for Interventional Closure: Review Article
Authors: Morcos Ramez , Al Taii Haider , Bansal Priya , Casale Joel , Manam Rupesh , Patel Vikram , Cioci Anthony , Kucharik Michael , Malhotra Arjun , Maini Brijeshwar
Published: November 2018

Periprocedural imaging assessment for percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) transcatheter occlusion can be obtained by utilizing different imaging modalities including fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound imaging. Given the complex and variable morphology of the left atrial appendage, it is crucial to obtain the most accurate LAA dimensions to prevent intra-procedural device changes, recapture maneuvers, and prolonged procedure time. We therefore sought to examine the accuracy of the most commonly utilized imaging modalities in LAA occlusion. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was waived as we only reviewed published data. By utilizing PUBMED which is an integrated online website to list the published literature based on its relevance, we retrieved thirty-two articles on the accuracy of most commonly used imaging modalities for pre-procedural assessment of the left atrial appendage morphology, namely, two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, and three-dimensional printing. There is strong evidence that real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography is more accurate than two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography. Three-dimensional computed tomography has recently emerged as an imaging modality and it showed exceptional accuracy when merged with three-dimensional printing technology. However, real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography may be considered the preferred imaging modality as it can provide accurate measurements without requiring radiation exposure or contrast administration. We will present the most common imaging modality used for LAA assessment and will provide an algorithmic approach including preprocedural, periprocedural, intraprocedural, and postprocedural.
Recognition of Damage Modes and Hilbert–Huang Transform Analyses of 3D Braided Composites
Authors: Ding Gang , Sun Liankun , Wan Zhenkai , Li Jialu , Pei Xiaoyuan , Tang Youhong
Published: November 2018

The identification and classification of acoustic emission (AE) based failure modes are complex due to the fact that AE waves are generally released simultaneously from all AE-emitting damage sources. To fully understand the occurrence of damage and the damage evolution law of 3D braided composites, the tensile response characteristics and failure mechanisms of such composites were revealed by experiments, followed by frequency domain analyses. The results indicated good correlation between the number of AE events and the evolution of damage in 3D braided composites. After an AE signal was decomposed by the Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT) method, it might extract and separate all damage modes included in this AE signal. Additionally, the frequency saltation in the HHT spectra implied changes in the failure mode of the 3D braided composites. This study provides an effective new method for the analysis of the tensile fracture mechanism in 3D braided composites.
Kat2a and Kat2b Acetyltransferase Activity Regulates Craniofacial Cartilage and Bone Differentiation in Zebrafish and Mice
Authors: Sen Rwik , Pezoa Sofia A. , Carpio Shull Lomeli , Hernandez-Lagunas Laura , Niswander Lee A. , Artinger Kristin Bruk
Published: November 2018

Cranial neural crest cells undergo cellular growth, patterning, and differentiation within the branchial arches to form cartilage and bone, resulting in a precise pattern of skeletal elements forming the craniofacial skeleton. However, it is unclear how cranial neural crest cells are regulated to give rise to the different shapes and sizes of the bone and cartilage. Epigenetic regulators are good candidates to be involved in this regulation, since they can exert both broad as well as precise control on pattern formation. Here, we investigated the role of the histone acetyltransferases Kat2a and Kat2b in craniofacial development using TALEN/CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis in zebrafish and the Kat2ahat/hat (also called Gcn5) allele in mice. kat2a and kat2b are broadly expressed during embryogenesis within the central nervous system and craniofacial region. Single and double kat2a and kat2b zebrafish mutants have an overall shortening and hypoplastic nature of the cartilage elements and disruption of the posterior ceratobranchial cartilages, likely due to smaller domains of expression of both cartilage- and bone-specific markers, including sox9a and col2a1, and runx2a and runx2b, respectively. Similarly, in mice we observe defects in the craniofacial skeleton, including hypoplastic bone and cartilage and altered expression of Runx2 and cartilage markers (Sox9, Col2a1). In addition, we determined that following the loss of Kat2a activity, overall histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9) acetylation, the main epigenetic target of Kat2a/Kat2b, was decreased. These results suggest that Kat2a and Kat2b are required for growth and differentiation of craniofacial cartilage and bone in both zebrafish and mice by regulating H3K9 acetylation.
RETRACTED: Transcatheter Decellularized Tissue-Engineered Heart Valve (dTEHV) Grown on Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Scaffold Coated with P4HB Shows Improved Functionality over 52 Weeks due to Polyether-Ether-Ketone (PEEK) Insert
Authors: Bruder Leon , Spriestersbach Hendrik , Brakmann Kerstin , Stegner Valentin , Sigler Matthias , Berger Felix , Schmitt Boris
Published: November 2018

Many congenital heart defects and degenerative valve diseases require replacement of heart valves in children and young adults. Transcatheter xenografts degenerate over time. Tissue engineering might help to overcome this limitation by providing valves with ability for self-repair. A transcatheter decellularized tissue-engineered heart valve (dTEHV) was developed using a polyglycolic acid (PGA) scaffold. A first prototype showed progressive regurgitation after 6 months in-vivo due to a suboptimal design and misguided remodeling process. A new geometry was developed accordingly with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and implemented by adding a polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) insert to the bioreactor during cultivation. This lead to more belly-shaped leaflets with higher coaptation areas for this second generation dTEHV. Valve functionality assessed via angiography, intracardiac echocardiography, and MRI proved to be much better when compared the first generation dTEHV, with preserved functionality up to 52 weeks after implantation. Macroscopic findings showed no thrombi or signs of acute inflammation. For the second generation dTEHV, belly-shaped leaflets with soft and agile tissue-formation were seen after explantation. No excessive leaflet shortening occurred in the second generation dTEHV. Histological analysis showed complete engraftment of the dTEHV, with endothelialization of the leaflets and the graft wall. Leaflets consisted of collagenous tissue and some elastic fibers. Adaptive leaflet remodeling was visible in all implanted second generation dTEHV, and most importantly no fusion between leaflet and wall was found. Very few remnants of the PGA scaffold were detected even 52 weeks after implantation, with no influence on functionality. By adding a polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) insert to the bioreactor construct, a new geometry of PGA-scaffold based dTEHV could be implemented. This resulted in very good valve function of the implanted dTEHV over a period of 52 weeks.
Stronger Together: Personality, Intelligence and the Assessment of Career Potential
Authors: Leutner Franziska , Chamorro-Premuzic Tomas
Published: November 2018

Personality and intelligence have a long history in applied psychology, with research dating back more than 100 years. In line, early developments in industrial-organizational psychology were largely founded on the predictive power of personality and intelligence measures vis-à-vis career-related outcomes. However, despite a wealth of evidence in support of their utility, the concepts, theories, and measures of personality and intelligence are still widely underutilized in organizations, even when these express a commitment to making data-driven decisions about employees and leaders. This paper discusses the value of personality and intelligence to understand individual differences in career potential, and how to increase the adoption of theories and tools for evaluating personality and intelligence in real-world organizational contexts. Although personality and intelligence are distinct constructs, the assessment of career potential is incomplete without both.
An Invertebrate Host to Study Fungal Infections, Mycotoxins and Antifungal Drugs: Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Canteri de Souza Patrícia , Custódio Caloni Carla , Wilson Duncan , Sergio Almeida Ricardo
Published: November 2018

Faced with ethical conflict and social pressure, researchers have increasingly chosen to use alternative models over vertebrates in their research. Since the innate immune system is evolutionarily conserved in insects, the use of these animals in research is gaining ground. This review discusses Tenebrio molitor as a potential model host for the study of pathogenic fungi. Larvae of T. molitor are known as cereal pests and, in addition, are widely used as animal and human feed. A number of studies on mechanisms of the humoral system, especially in the synthesis of antimicrobial peptides, which have similar characteristics to vertebrates, have been performed. These studies demonstrate the potential of T. molitor larvae as a model host that can be used to study fungal virulence, mycotoxin effects, host immune responses to fungal infection, and the action of antifungal compounds.
Trend Analysis of Las Vegas Land Cover and Temperature Using Remote Sensing
Authors: Stephen Haroon
Published: November 2018

The Las Vegas urban area expanded rapidly during the last two decades. In order to understand the impacts on the environment, it is imperative that the rate and type of urban expansion is determined. Remote sensing is an efficient and effective way to study spatial change in urban areas and Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) is a valuable technique to retrieve subpixel landcover information from remote sensing images. In this research, urban growth trends in Las Vegas are studied over the 1990 to 2010 period using images from Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) and National Agricultural Imagery Program (NAIP). The SMA model of TM pixels is calibrated using high resolution NAIP classified image. The trends of land cover change are related to the land surface temperature trends derived from TM thermal infrared images. The results show that the rate of change of various land covers followed a linear trend in Las Vegas. The largest increase occurred in residential buildings followed by roads and commercial buildings. Some increase in vegetation cover in the form of tree cover and open spaces (grass) is also seen and there is a gradual decrease in barren land and bladed ground. Trend analysis of temperature shows a reduction over the new development areas with increased vegetation cover especially, in the form of golf courses and parks. This research provides a useful insight about the role of vegetation in ameliorating temperature rise in arid urban areas.
Seeking for the Maximum Symmetric Rank
Authors: De Paris Alessandro
Published: November 2018

We present the state-of-the-art on maximum symmetric tensor rank, for each given dimension and order. After a general discussion on the interplay between symmetric tensors, polynomials and divided powers, we introduce the technical environment and the methods that have been set up in recent times to find new lower and upper bounds.
A Generalized Framework for Analyzing Taxonomic, Phylogenetic, and Functional Community Structure Based on Presence–Absence Data
Authors: Podani János , Pavoine Sandrine , Ricotta Carlo
Published: November 2018

Community structure as summarized by presence–absence data is often evaluated via diversity measures by incorporating taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional information on the constituting species. Most commonly, various dissimilarity coefficients are used to express these aspects simultaneously such that the results are not comparable due to the lack of common conceptual basis behind index definitions. A new framework is needed which allows such comparisons, thus facilitating evaluation of the importance of the three sources of extra information in relation to conventional species-based representations. We define taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional beta diversity of species assemblages based on the generalized Jaccard dissimilarity index. This coefficient does not give equal weight to species, because traditional site dissimilarities are lowered by taking into account the taxonomic, phylogenetic or functional similarity of differential species in one site to the species in the other. These, together with the traditional, taxon- (species-) based beta diversity are decomposed into two additive fractions, one due to taxonomic, phylogenetic or functional excess and the other to replacement. In addition to numerical results, taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional community structure is visualized by 2D simplex or ternary plots. Redundancy with respect to taxon-based structure is expressed in terms of centroid distances between point clouds in these diagrams. The approach is illustrated by examples coming from vegetation surveys representing different ecological conditions. We found that beta diversity decreases in the following order: taxon-based, taxonomic (Linnaean), phylogenetic and functional. Therefore, we put forward the beta-redundancy hypothesis suggesting that this ordering may be most often the case in ecological communities, and discuss potential reasons and possible exceptions to this supposed rule. Whereas the pattern of change in diversity may be indicative of fundamental features of the particular community being studied, the effect of the choice of functional traits—a more or less subjective element of the framework—remains to be investigated.
Rule-Based Production of Mathematical Expressions
Authors: Alavi Milani Mir Mohammad Reza , Hosseinpour Sahereh , Pehlivan Huseyin
Published: November 2018

There are situations in which one needs to write various kinds of mathematical expressions, such as practicing tests and school exams. There is a variety of methods to produce such expressions, but they are usually based on a database. This paper addresses the production of new expressions using the template ones that can be derived from the evaluation process or entered by users. With special limitations on the values of parameters, some templates can be dynamically constructed for the automatic generation of mathematical expressions and represented in the form of classes. For this purpose, a new type of grammar is proposed. This grammar is similar to Context-Free Grammar, but it empowers the producer to gain control over the generation of rules for different expressions. Our work mainly focuses on generating mathematical expressions in a user-oriented way, using a predefined set of templates of production rules. The production of expressions is not completely random, and is based on the defined subject.
Anti-Acanthamoeba Activity of Brominated Sesquiterpenes from Laurencia johnstonii
Authors: García-Davis Sara , Sifaoui Ines , Reyes-Batlle María , Viveros-Valdez Ezequiel , Piñero José E. , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob , Fernández José J. , Díaz-Marrero Ana R.
Published: November 2018

Focused on our interest to develop novel antiparasistic agents, the present study was aimed to evaluate the biological activity of an extract of Laurencia johnstonii collected in Baja California Sur, Mexico, against an Acantamoeba castellanii Neff strain. Bioassay-guided fractionation allowed us to identify the amoebicidal diastereoisomers α-bromocuparane (4) and α-isobromocuparane (5). Furthermore, bromination of the inactive laurinterol (1) and isolaurinterol (2) yielded four halogenated derivatives, (6)–(9), which improved the activity of the natural sesquiterpenes. Among them, the most active compound was 3α-bromojohnstane (7), a sesquiterpene derivative which possesses a novel carbon skeleton johnstane.
Novel Bioactive Peptides from Meretrix meretrix Protect Caenorhabditis elegans against Free Radical-Induced Oxidative Stress through the Stress Response Factor DAF-16/FOXO
Authors: Jia Weizhang , Peng Qiong , Su Linnan , Yu Xuesong , Ma Chung Wah , Liang Ming , Yin Xiquan , Zou Yongdong , Huang Zebo
Published: November 2018

The hard clam Meretrix meretrix, which has been traditionally used as medicine and seafood, was used in this study to isolate antioxidant peptides. First, a peptide-rich extract was tested for its protective effect against paraquat-induced oxidative stress using the nematode model Caenorhabditis elegans. Then, three novel antioxidant peptides; MmP4 (LSDRLEETGGASS), MmP11 (KEGCREPETEKGHR) and MmP19 (IVTNWDDMEK), were identified and were found to increase the resistance of nematodes against paraquat. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that MmP4 was predominantly in beta-sheet conformation, while MmP11 and MmP19 were primarily in random coil conformation. Using transgenic nematode models, the peptides were shown to promote nuclear translocation of the DAF-16/FOXO transcription factor, a pivotal regulator of stress response and lifespan, and induce the expression of superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD-3), an antioxidant enzyme. Analysis of DAF-16 target genes by real-time PCR reveals that sod-3 was up-regulated by MmP4, MmP11 and MmP19 while ctl-1 and ctl-2 were also up-regulated by MmP4. Further examination of daf-16 using RNA interference suggests that the peptide-increased resistance of C. elegans to oxidative stress was DAF-16 dependent. Taken together, these data demonstrate the antioxidant activity of M. meretrix peptides, which are associated with activation of the stress response factor DAF-16 and regulation of the antioxidant enzyme genes.
Anticoagulant Properties of a Green Algal Rhamnan-type Sulfated Polysaccharide and Its Low-molecular-weight Fragments Prepared by Mild Acid Degradation
Authors: Liu Xue , Du Peng , Liu Xiao , Cao Sujian , Qin Ling , He Meijia , He Xiaoxi , Mao Wenjun
Published: November 2018

The active sulfated polysaccharide from seaweed possesses important pharmaceutical and biomedical potential. In the study, Monostroma sulfated polysaccharide (MSP) was obtained from Monostroma angicava, and the low-molecular-weight fragments of MSP (MSP-Fs: MSP-F1–MSP-F6) were prepared by controlled acid degradation. The molecular weights of MSP and MSP-F1–MSP-F6 were 335 kDa, 240 kDa, 90 kDa, 40 kDa, 24 kDa, 12 kDa, and 6.8 kDa, respectively. The polysaccharides were sulfated rhamnans that consisted of →3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→ and →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→ units with partial sulfation at C-2 of →3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→ and C-3 of →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→. Anticoagulant properties in vitro of MSP and MSP-F1–MSP-F6 were evaluated by studying the activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, and prothrombin time. Anticoagulant activities in vivo of MSP and MSP-F4 were further evaluated; their fibrin(ogen)olytic activities in vivo and thrombolytic properties in vitro were also assessed by D-dimer, fibrin degradation products, plasminogen activator inhibitior-1, and clot lytic rate assays. The results showed that MSP and MSP-F1–MSP-F4 with molecular weights of 24–240 kDa had strong anticoagulant activities. A decrease in the molecular weight of MSP-Fs was accompanied by a decrease in the anticoagulant activity, and higher anticoagulant activity requires a molecular weight of over 12 kDa. MSP and MSP-F4 possessed strong anticoagulant activities in vivo, as well as high fibrin(ogen)olytic and thrombolytic activities. MSP and MSP-F4 have potential as drug or helpful food supplements for human health.
Levels of Physical Activity in Lithuanian Adolescents
Authors: López-Sánchez Guillermo , Emeljanovas Arūnas , Miežienė Brigita , Díaz-Suárez Arturo , Sánchez-Castillo Sheila , Yang Lin , Roberts Justin , Smith Lee
Published: November 2018

Background and objective: Population levels of physical activity are an international concern. The purpose of the present study was to describe and analyse physical activity levels in Lithuanian adolescents. Materials and methods: With this aim in mind, the Physician-based Assessment and Counselling for Exercise (PACE) questionnaire was administered to 5141 adolescents residing in Lithuania, 2502 boys (48.7%) and 2639 girls (51.3%), aged between 11 and 19 years. Results: It was found that adolescents studied met the physical activity guideline, of 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity a day, on average 3.6 days/week (SD = 2.1). A total of 3426 adolescents (66.6%) were inactive as classified by the PACE questionnaire (at least 1 h of physical activity/day < 5 days/week). In the present sample there were more active (at least 1 h of physical activity/day ≥ 5 days/week) boys (n = 994, 39.7%) than girls (n = 721, 27.3%) (p < 0.001; OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.56 to 1.97), and, on average, boys were more likely to meet daily recommendations of physical activity than girls, 0.7 days more a week (p < 0.001; IRRs 1.21, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.25). According to age, younger adolescents (11–12 years) were significantly more active than older adolescents (13–19 years) and a curvilinear relationship between age and physical activity was observed with significant linear (unstandardized beta (B) = −0.807; standardized beta (β) = −0.796; p < 0.001) and quadratic terms (unstandardized beta (B) = 0.024; standardized beta (β) = 0.704; p < 0.001). Conclusions: It is necessary to increase the level of physical activity in Lithuanian adolescents and intervention programs should be carried out considering these results.
The Impact of Mechanically-Imposed Shear on Clogging, Fouling and Energy Demand for an Immersed Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Judd Simon , Odai Albert , Buzatu Pompilia , Qiblawey Hazim
Published: November 2018

The impact of the application of mechanically-imposed shear on the propensity for fouling and clogging (or “sludging”—the agglomeration of sludge solids in the membrane channel) of an immersed flat sheet (iFS) membrane bioreactor (MBR) was studied. The bench-scale test cell used contained a single flat sheet fitted with a crank and motor to allow the membrane to be oscillated (or reciprocated) vertically at a low rate (20 RPM). The membrane was challenged with sludge samples from a local MBR installation treating petroleum industry effluent, the sludge having previously been demonstrated as having a high sludging propensity. Sludging was measured by direct visual observation of membrane surface occlusion by the agglomerated solids, with fouling being notionally represented by the rate of transmembrane pressure increase. Results demonstrated membrane reciprocation to have a more beneficial impact on sludging amelioration than on suppressing fouling. Compared with the stationary membrane, sludging was reduced by an average of 45% compared with only 13% for fouling suppression at the reference flux of 15 L·m−2·h−1 applied. The specific energy demand of the mechanical shear application was calculated as being around 0.0081 kWh·m−3, significantly lower than values reported from a recent pilot scale study on a reciprocated immersed hollow fibre MBR. Whilst results appear promising in terms of energy efficiency, it is likely that the mechanical complexity of applying membrane movement would limit the practical application to low flows, and a correspondingly small number of membrane modules.
Pilot–Scale Production of Carbon Hollow Fiber Membranes from Regenerated Cellulose Precursor-Part I: Optimal Conditions for Precursor Preparation
Authors: Haider Shamim , Lie Jon , Lindbråthen Arne , Hägg May-Britt
Published: November 2018

Industrial scale production of carbon membrane is very challenging due to expensive precursor materials and a multi-step process with several variables to deal with. The optimization of these variables is essential to gain a competent carbon membrane (CM) with high performance and good mechanical properties. In this paper, a pilot scale system is reported that was developed to produce CM from regenerated cellulose precursor with the annual production capacity 700 m2 of CM. The process was optimized to achieve maximum yield (>95%) of high quality precursor fibers and carbonized fibers. A dope solution of cellulose acetate (CA)/Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and bore fluid of NMP/H2O were used in 460 spinning-sessions of the fibers using a well-known dry/wet spinning process. Optimized deacetylation of spun-CA hollow fibers (CAHF) was achieved by using 90 vol% 0.075 M NaOH aqueous solution diluted with 10 vol% isopropanol for 2.5 h at ambient temperature. Cellulose hollow fibers (CHF) dried at room temperature and under RH (80% → ambient) overnight gave maximum yield for both dried CHF, as well as carbon fibers. The gas permeation properties of carbon fibers were also high (CO2 permeability: 50–450 Barrer (1 Barrer = 2.736 × 10−9 m3 (STP) m/m2 bar h), and CO2/CH4 selectivity acceptable (50–500).
Geometric Modification of the Tundish Impact Point
Authors: Buľko Branislav , Priesol Ivan , Demeter Peter , Gašparovič Peter , Baricová Dana , Hrubovčáková Martina
Published: November 2018

In connection with the increasing requirements for cleanliness in conticast steel, it is necessary to develop original solutions. The tundish, as the last refractory-lined reactor, gives enough space to remove inclusions by optimizing the flow of steel. The basic component of the tundish is the impact pad, the shape of which creates a suitable flow of steel, thus making it part of the tundish metallurgy. The optimal steel flow in the tundish must avoid creating dead zone areas, or the slag “eye” phenomenon in the slag layer around the ladle shroud, and is intended to create conditions for the release of inclusions by promoting reactions at the steel-slag phase interface. The flow also has to prevent excessive erosion of the tundish refractory lining. This paper compares the standard impact pad with the “Spheric” spherical impact pad using computional fluid dynamiscs (CFD) tools and physical modelling. The evaluation criteria are residence time and flow in the tundish at three different casting speeds.
Effect of Sulfur Content on the Properties and MnS Morphologies of DH36 Structural Steel
Authors: Guo Jing , Yang Wensheng , Shi Xiao , Zheng Zhaoming , Liu Shuai , Duan Shengchao , Wu Jianzhong , Guo Hanjie
Published: November 2018

The behavior of MnS, a significant non-metallic inclusion in steel with low sulfur content, is poorly understood, in particular, how the MnS inclusion becomes a favorable secondary phase. To clarify how the sulfur content in DH36 structural steel affects the behaviors of MnS, and the steel properties, samples containing 20–380 ppm sulfur were melted, and the ingots were rolled in a semi-industrial single-roll mill. According to experiments using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), an automatic inclusion analysis system, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the morphology of MnS inclusions changed from thread-shaped to spherical- or spindle-shaped with decreasing sulfur content, and their size and number also decreased. The steel with 20 ppm S contained much more nanoscale MnS, whose pinning effect created a fine grain size in the steel. The reason is that the temperatures of maximum nucleation rate and fastest precipitation of MnS in this sample (900 °C and 920 °C, respectively) are much lower than the soaking temperature. Compared to samples with 70–380 ppm sulfur, the sample with 20 ppm sulfur content demonstrated the highest yield strength, tensile strength, and impact energy. Finally, the industrially produced DH36 samples were analyzed, and the steel with the lower S content had a higher stability and yield strength, in agreement with our laboratory results.
Thermal Pre-Treatment of Polymetallic Nodules to Create Metal (Ni, Cu, Co)-Rich Individual Particles for Further Processing
Authors: Wegorzewski Anna V. , Köpcke Martin , Kuhn Thomas , Sitnikova Maria A. , Wotruba Hermann
Published: November 2018

Polymetallic nodules are a potential source of industrially demanded metals such as Ni, Co, Cu, and Mo (up to 3 wt %). Even if there is no deep-sea mining of manganese nodules today, a forecasted gap between metal demand and supply as well as continuously high metal prices may make seabed mining economically viable in the future. Up to now, a well-established industrial-scale extraction method for manganese nodules has been missing. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore how economically interesting metals can be extracted from the nodules in a cost- and energy-efficient way. Polymetallic nodules have a heterogeneous chemical and structural composition without individual metal-rich particles. The economically interesting metals are distributed between different mineral phases (Mn-Fe-(oxy)hydroxides) as well as different growth structures that are intergrown with each other on a nm‒µm scale. Because of that a typical ore processing with the beneficiation of valuable particles is not feasible. The process presented here starts with a pyro-metallurgical pre-treatment of the polymetallic nodules, with the aim of creating artificial metal-rich (Ni, Cu, Co, Mo) particles with enrichment factors up to 10 compared to the original average metal contents. Afterwards, these particles should be beneficiated by conventional mineral processing steps to create a concentrate while reducing the mass stream in the process. The resulting metal particles can be further treated in conventional hydrometallurgical and/or pyro-metallurgical processes.
Spatial Mapping of the Rock Quality Designation Using Multi-Gaussian Kriging Method
Authors: Madani Nasser , Yagiz Saffet , Coffi Adoko Amoussou
Published: November 2018

The rock quality designation is an important input for the analysis and design of rock structures as reliable spatial modeling of the rock quality designation (RQD) can assist in designing and planning mines more efficiently. The aim of this paper is to model the spatial distribution of the RQD using the multi-Gaussian kriging approach as an alternative to the non-linear geostatistical technique which has shown some limitations. To this end, 470 RQD datasets were collected from 9 boreholes pertaining to the Gazestan ore deposit in Iran. The datasets were declustered then transformed into Gaussian distribution. To ensure the model spatial continuity, variogram analysis was first performed. The elevation 150 m with a grid of 5 m × 5 m × 5 m was selected to illustrate the methodology. Surface maps showing the RQD classes (very poor, poor, fair, good, and very good) with their associated probability were established. A cross-validation method was used to check the obtained model. The validation results indicated good prediction of the local variability. In addition, the associated uncertainty was quantified on the basis of the conditional distributions and the accuracy plot agreed with the overall results. It is concluded that the proposed model could be used to produce a reliable RQD map.
Ethanolic Extract of Folium Sennae Mediates the Glucose Uptake of L6 Cells by GLUT4 and Ca2+
Authors: Zhao Ping , Ming Qian , Qiu Junying , Tian Di , Liu Jia , Shen Jinhua , Liu Qing-Hua , Yang Xinzhou
Published: November 2018

In today’s world, diabetes mellitus (DM) is on the rise, especially type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is characterized by insulin resistance. T2DM has high morbidity, and therapies with natural products have attracted much attention in the recent past. In this paper, we aimed to study the hypoglycemic effect and the mechanism of an ethanolic extract of Folium Sennae (FSE) on L6 cells. The glucose uptake of L6 cells was investigated using a glucose assay kit. We studied glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) expression and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), and protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation levels using western blot analysis. GLUT4 trafficking and intracellular Ca2+ levels were monitored by laser confocal microscopy in L6 cells stably expressing IRAP-mOrange. GLUT4 fusion with plasma membrane (PM) was observed by myc-GLUT4-mOrange. FSE stimulated glucose uptake; GLUT4 expression and translocation; PM fusion; intracellular Ca2+ elevation; and the phosphorylation of AMPK, Akt, and PKC in L6 cells. GLUT4 translocation was weakened by the AMPK inhibitor compound C, PI3K inhibitor Wortmannin, PKC inhibitor Gö6983, G protein inhibitor PTX/Gallein, and PLC inhibitor U73122. Similarly, in addition to PTX/Gallein and U73122, the IP3R inhibitor 2-APB and a 0 mM Ca2+-EGTA solution partially inhibited the elevation of intracellular Ca2+ levels. BAPTA-AM had a significant inhibitory effect on FSE-mediated GLUT4 activities. In summary, FSE regulates GLUT4 expression and translocation by activating the AMPK, PI3K/Akt, and G protein–PLC–PKC pathways. FSE causes increasing Ca2+ concentration to complete the fusion of GLUT4 vesicles with PM, allowing glucose uptake. Therefore, FSE may be a potential drug for improving T2DM.
The Internal Relation between Quantum Chemical Descriptors and Empirical Constants of Polychlorinated Compounds
Authors: Fei Jiangchi , Mao Qiming , Peng Lu , Ye Tiantian , Yang Yuan , Luo Shuang
Published: November 2018

Quantum chemical descriptors and empirical parameters are two different types of chemical parameters that play the fundamental roles in chemical reactivity and model development. However, previous studies have lacked detail regarding the relationship between quantum chemical descriptors and empirical constants. We selected polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as an object to investigate the intrinsic correlation between 16 quantum chemical descriptors and Hammett constants. The results exhibited extremely high linearity for ∑ σ o ,   m ,   p + with Qxx/yy/zz, α and EHOMO based on the meta-position grouping. Polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) congeners, as two independent compounds, validated the reliability of the relationship. The meta-substituent grouping method between ∑ σ o ,   m ,   p + and α was successfully used to predict the rate constant (k) for •OH oxidation of PCBs, as well as the octanol/water partition coefficient (logKOW) and aqueous solubility (−logSW) of PCDDs, and exhibited excellent agreement with experimental measurements. Revealing the intrinsic correlation underlying the empirical constant and quantum chemical descriptors can develop simpler and higher efficient model application in predicting the environmental behavior and chemical properties of compounds.
miR-103/miR-195/miR-15b Regulate SALL4 and Inhibit Proliferation and Migration in Glioma
Authors: Chen Li-Ping , Zhang Na-Na , Ren Xue-Qing , He Jie , Li Yu
Published: November 2018

Glioma is the common highly malignant primary brain tumor. However, the molecular pathways that result in the pathogenesis of glioma remain elusive. In this study, we found that microRNA-103 (miR-103), microRNA-195 (miR-195), or microRNA-15b (miR-15b), which all have the same 5′ “seed” miRNA portion and share common binding sites in the SALL4 3′-untranslated region (UTR), were downregulated in glioma tissues and cell lines. These miRNAs suppressed glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, induced cell apoptosis, and decreased the level of the SALL4 protein, but not that of SALL4 mRNA, which was identified as a direct target of all three miRNAs. The caspase-3/7 activity expression in U251 cells overexpressing these miRNAs was rescued during SALL4 upregulation. An obvious inverse correlation was observed between SALL4 and miR-103 or miR-195 expression levels in clinical glioma samples. Moreover, enforced expression of SALL4 stimulated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In conclusion, these data suggest that miR-103, miR-195, and miR-15b post-transcriptionally downregulated the expression of SALL4 and suppressed glioma cell growth, migration, and invasion, and increased cell apoptosis. These results provide a potential therapeutic target that may downregulate SALL4 in glioma.