bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Decellularization Procedure in Rat Esophagus for Possible Development of a Tissue Engineered Construct
Authors: Mallis Panagiotis , Chachlaki Panagiota , Katsimpoulas Michalis , Stavropoulos-Giokas Catherine , Michalopoulos Efstathios
Published: December 2018

Background: Current esophageal treatment is associated with significant morbidity. The gold standard therapeutic strategies are stomach interposition or autografts derived from the jejunum and colon. However, severe adverse reactions, such as esophageal leakage, stenosis and infection, accompany the above treatments, which, most times, are life threating. The aim of this study was the optimization of a decellularization protocol in order to develop a proper esophageal tissue engineered construct. Methods: Rat esophagi were obtained from animals and were decellularized. The decellularization process involved the use of 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl) dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) buffers for 6 h each, followed by incubation in a serum medium. The whole process involved two decellularization cycles. Then, a histological analysis was performed. In addition, the amounts of collagen, sulphated glycosaminoglycans and DNA content were quantified. Results: The histological analysis revealed that only the first decellularization cycle was enough to produce a cellular and nuclei free esophageal scaffold with a proper extracellular matrix orientation. These results were further confirmed by biochemical quantification. Conclusions: Based on the above results, the current decellularization protocol can be applied successfully in order to produce an esophageal tissue engineered construct.
Specific Immobilization of Escherichia coli Expressing Recombinant Glycerol Dehydrogenase on Mannose-Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Fei-Long , Zhuang Meng-Yao , Shen Jia-Jia , Fan Xiao-Man , Choi Hyunsoo , Lee Jung-Kul , Zhang Ye-Wang
Published: December 2018

Mannose-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles were prepared for the immobilization of Escherichia coli cells harboring the recombinant glycerol dehydrogenase gene. Immobilization of whole E. coli cells on the carrier was carried out through specific binding between mannose on the nanoparticles and the FimH lectin on the E. coli cell surface via hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. The effects of various factors including cell concentration, pH, temperature, and buffer concentration were investigated. High degrees of immobilization (84%) and recovery of activity (82%) were obtained under the following conditions: cell/support 1.3 mg/mL, immobilization time 2 h, pH 8.0, temperature 4°C, and buffer concentration 50 mM. Compared with the free cells, the thermostability of the immobilized cells was improved 2.56-fold at 37 °C. More than 50% of the initial activity of the immobilized cells remained after 10 cycles. The immobilized cells were evaluated functionally by monitoring the catalytic conversion of glycerol to 1,3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA). After a 12 h reaction, the DHA produced by the immobilized cells was two-fold higher than that produced by the free cells. These results indicate that mannose-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles can be used for the specific recognition of gram-negative bacteria, which gives them great potential in applications such as the preparation of biocatalysts and biosensors and clinical diagnosis.
The Role of Mediated Oxidation on the Electro-irradiated Treatment of Amoxicillin and Ampicillin Polluted Wastewater
Authors: Silva Fernando , Sáez Cristina , Lanza Marcos , Cañizares Pablo , Rodrigo Manuel
Published: December 2018

In this work, the electrolysis, photoelectrolysis and sonoelectrolysis with diamond electrodes of amoxicillin (AMX) and ampicillin (AMP) solutions were studied in the context of the search for technologies capable of removing antibiotics from liquid wastes. Single-irradiation processes (sonolysis and photolysis) were also evaluated for comparison. Results showed that AMX and AMP are completely degraded and mineralized by electrolysis in both chloride and sulfate media, although the efficiency is higher in the presence of chloride. The effect of the current density on mineralization efficiency is not relevant and this may be related to the role of mediated oxidation. Irradiation by ultraviolet light or ultrasound (US) waves does not produce a synergistic effect on the mineralization of AMX and AMP solutions. This indicates that the massive formation of radicals during the combined processes can favor their recombination to form stable and less reactive species.
Differential Mechanisms of Cell Death Induced by HDAC Inhibitor SAHA and MDM2 Inhibitor RG7388 in MCF-7 Cells
Authors: Natarajan Umamaheswari , Venkatesan Thiagarajan , Radhakrishnan Vijayaraghavan , Samuel Shila , Rathinavelu Appu
Published: December 2018

Gene expression is often altered by epigenetic modifications that can significantly influence the growth ability and progression of cancers. SAHA (Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, also known as Vorinostat), a well-known Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, can stop cancer growth and metastatic processes through epigenetic alterations. On the other hand, Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor that can elicit strong anti-cancer effects on breast cancer through direct and indirect mechanisms. A newly developed inhibitor, RG7388 specific for an oncogene-derived protein called MDM2, is in clinical trials for the treatment of various cancers. In this paper, we performed assays to measure the effects of cell cycle arrest resulting from individual drug treatments or combination treatments with SAHA + letrozole and SAHA + RG7388, using the MCF-7 breast cancer cells. When SAHA was used individually, or in combination treatments with RG7388, a significant increase in the cytotoxic effect was obtained. Induction of cell cycle arrest by SAHA in cancer cells was evidenced by elevated p21 protein levels. In addition, SAHA treatment in MCF-7 cells showed significant up-regulation in phospho-RIP3 and MLKL levels. Our results confirmed that cell death caused by SAHA treatment was primarily through the induction of necroptosis. On the other hand, the RG7388 treatment was able to induce apoptosis by elevating BAX levels. It appears that, during combination treatments, with SAHA and RG7388, two parallel pathways might be induced simultaneously, that could lead to increased cancer cell death. SAHA appears to induce cell necroptosis in a p21-dependent manner, and RG7388 seems to induce apoptosis in a p21-independent manner, outlining differential mechanisms of cell death induction. However, further studies are needed to fully understand the intracellular mechanisms that are triggered by these two anti-cancer agents.
Human Male Body Images from Multiple Perspectives with Multiple Lighting Settings
Authors: Clemons William , Straub Jeremy
Published: December 2018

There are multiple technological ways to identify humans and verify claimed identities. The dataset presented herein facilitates work on hard and soft biometric human identification and identity verification. It is comprised of full-body images of multiple fully clothed males from a constrained age range. The images have been taken from multiple perspectives with varied lighting brightness and temperature.
Analysis and Comparison of Spatial–Temporal Entropy Variability of Tehran City Microclimate Based on Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Ghanghermeh Abdolazim , Roshan Gholamreza , Orosa José A. , Costa Ángel M.
Published: December 2018

Urban microclimate patterns can play a great role for the allocation and management of cooling and heating energy sources, urban design and architecture, and urban heat island control. Therefore, the present study intends to investigate the variability of spatial and temporal entropy of the Effective Temperature index (ET) for the two basic periods (1971–2010) and the future (2011–2050) in Tehran to determine how the variability degree of the entropy values of the abovementioned bioclimatic would be, based on global warming and future climate change. ArcGIS software and geostatistical methods were used to show the Spatial and Temporal variations of the microclimate pattern in Tehran. However, due to global warming the temperature difference between the different areas of the study has declined, which is believed to reduce the abnormalities and more orderly between the data spatially and over time. It is observed that the lowest values of the Shannon entropy occurred in the last two decades, from 2030 to 2040, and the other in 2040–2050. Because, based on global warming, dominant areas have increased temperature, and the difference in temperature is reduced daily and the temperature difference between the zones of different areas is lower. The results of this study show a decrease in the coefficient of the Shannon entropy of effective temperature for future decades in Tehran. This can be due to the reduction of temperature differences between different regions. However, based on the urban-climate perspective, there is no positive view of this process. Because reducing the urban temperature difference means reducing the local pressure difference as well as reducing local winds. This is a factor that can effective, though limited, in the movement of stagnant urban air and reduction of thermal budget and thermal stress of the city.
The Role of Subjective Quality Judgements in User Preferences for Mobile Learning Apps
Authors: Uther Maria , Ylinen Sari
Published: December 2018

This study investigated whether subjective quality judgements on sound and picture quality across three devices (iPhone, iPad, and iPad mini) affected user preferences for learning applications. We tested 20 native Finnish-speaking users trialing generic audio clips, video clips, and two kinds of learning apps that were heavily reliant on sound. It was found that there was a main effect of the device on perceived sound quality, replicating earlier findings. However, these judgements did not impact on the users’ preferences for different devices nor on their preferences for different applications. The results are interpreted as indicating that perceived quality and affordances are less important for users in these contexts than other considerations (e.g., convenience, mobility, etc.).
A High-Efficiency Low-Power Chip-Based CMOS Liquid Crystal Driver for Tunable Electro-Optic Eyewear
Authors: Deng Hai , Li Guoqiang
Published: December 2018

A high-efficiency low-power chip-based liquid crystal (LC) driver has been successfully designed and implemented for adaptive electro-optic eyewear including tunable vision correction devices (eyeglass, contact lens, intraocular lens, occluder, and prism), phoropter, iris, head-mounted display, and 3D imaging. The driver can generate a 1 kHz bipolar square wave with magnitude tunable from 0 V to 15 V to change the lens focus adaptively. The LC driver output magnitude is controlled by a reference DC voltage that is manually tunable between 0 and 3 V. A multi-mode 1×/2×/3×/4×/5× charge pump is developed for DC-DC conversion to expand the output range with a fast-sink function implemented to regulate the charge pump output. In addition, a new four-phase H-bridge driving scheme is employed to improve the DC/AC inverter efficiency. The LC driver has been successfully implemented and tested as an IC chip (8.6 mm × 8.6 mm) using AMS 0.18 μm High-Voltage CMOS technology.
A Deep Feature Extraction Method for HEp-2 Cell Image Classification
Authors: Vununu Caleb , Lee Suk-Hwan , Kwon Ki-Ryong
Published: December 2018

The automated and accurate classification of the images portraying the Human Epithelial cells of type 2 (HEp-2) represents one of the most important steps in the diagnosis procedure of many autoimmune diseases. The extreme intra-class variations of the HEp-2 cell images datasets drastically complicates the classification task. We propose in this work a classification framework that, unlike most of the state-of-the-art methods, uses a deep learning-based feature extraction method in a strictly unsupervised way. We propose a deep learning-based hybrid feature learning with two levels of deep convolutional autoencoders. The first level takes the original cell images as the inputs and learns to reconstruct them, in order to capture the features related to the global shape of the cells, and the second network takes the gradients of the images, in order to encode the localized changes in intensity (gray variations) that characterize each cell type. A final feature vector is constructed by combining the latent representations extracted from the two networks, giving a highly discriminative feature representation. The created features will be fed to a nonlinear classifier whose output will represent the type of the cell image. We have tested the discriminability of the proposed features on two of the most popular HEp-2 cell classification datasets, the SNPHEp-2 and ICPR 2016 datasets. The results show that the proposed features manage to capture the distinctive characteristics of the different cell types while performing at least as well as the actual deep learning-based state-of-the-art methods in terms of discrimination.
Determination of Complex Conductivity of Thin Strips with a Transmission Method
Authors: Shahpari Morteza
Published: December 2018

Induced modes due to discontinuities inside the waveguide are dependent on the shape and material properties of the discontinuity. Reflection and transmission coefficients provide useful information about material properties of discontinuities inside the waveguide. A novel non-resonant procedure to measure the complex conductivity of narrow strips is proposed in this paper. The sample is placed inside a rectangular waveguide which is excited by its fundamental mode. Reflection and transmission coefficients are calculated by the assistance of the Green’s functions and enforcing the boundary conditions. We show that resistivity only impacts one of the terms in the reflection coefficient. The competency of the method is demonstrated with a comparison of theoretic results and full wave modelling of method of moments and finite element methods.
Model-Based Latency Compensation for Network Controlled Modular Multilevel Converters
Authors: Corrêa Tomás P. , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Bueno Emilio J.
Published: December 2018

The use of an internal digital communication network enhances the scalability, implementation and maintenance of Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC). However, it also introduces delays that limit the sampling frequency and the controller dynamic performance. In this paper, we propose a model-based predictor to compensate for the loop delay and overcome these limitations. Two benefits of this approach are possible: either designers can increase the sampling rate and control performance or employ a slower communication protocol/technology. In this paper, we present the mathematical description of the model-based predictor, assess the parameter sensitivity, and show matching simulation and experimental results that validate it. As constraints introduced by the use of digital communications are overcome, the results achieved encourage engineers to adopt a network into the design of Modular Multilevel Converters.
Heat Transfer Model to Predict Temperature Distribution in the Ground
Authors: Larwa Barbara
Published: December 2018

Knowledge of the temperature of the ground in time and space as well as its thermal properties gives basic information about physical phenomena concerning the transfer and accumulation of heat in the ground. It can be also used for evaluation of the heating possibilities of heat pumps; to proper design the size of the ground exchangers and the depth, at which they should be installed. For this purpose, a mathematical model based on the heat balance equation on the ground surface was developed. The basis of the model is the Carslaw-Jaeger equation regarding the temperature profile in the ground. The model was verified using experimental results for two different locations (different climatic conditions, moderate and arid climate)—the standard deviation is equal 0.62 K and 0.92 K, respectively. In this work, the impact of several parameters on the ground temperature profiles and thermal fluxes was determined. It was found that among the examined parameters the amplitude of the daily average solar radiation flux strongly effects on the total amount of heat transferred between the ground and the environment during the year, wherein the other parameters have a negligible effect.
A Novel Reconstruction Approach to Elevator Energy Conservation Based on a DC Micro-Grid in High-Rise Buildings
Authors: Zhang Yongming , Yan Zhe , Yuan Feng , Yao Jiawei , Ding Bao
Published: December 2018

Elevators were reported to cause an important part of building energy consumption. In general, each elevator has two operation states: The load state and power regeneration state. During operation, it has the potential to save energy by using regeneration power efficiently. In existing research, a set of energy storage devices are installed for every elevator, which is highly costly. In this paper, an energy conservation approach for elevators based on a direct current (DC) micro-grid is proposed, which has better economy. Then, an innovative energy-efficient device for the elevator group is designed based on a supercapacitor with similar characteristics and lifetimes. In a high-rise building case study, the experimental test and field data collection show that the innovative approach could result in a high energy efficiency within 15.87–23.1% and 24.1–54.5%, respectively. It is expected that the proposed method and designed device could be employed practically, saving energy consumption for elevator reconstruction.
Performance Evaluation of CO2 Huff-n-Puff Gas Injection in Shale Gas Condensate Reservoirs
Authors: Meng Xingbang , Meng Zhan , Ma Jixiang , Wang Tengfei
Published: December 2018

When the reservoir pressure is decreased lower than the dew point pressure in shale gas condensate reservoirs, condensate would be formed in the formation. Condensate accumulation severely reduces the commercial production of shale gas condensate reservoirs. Seeking ways to mitigate condensate in the formation and enhance both condensate and gas recovery in shale reservoirs has important significance. Very few related studies have been done. In this paper, both experimental and numerical studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of CO2 huff-n-puff to enhance the condensate recovery in shale reservoirs. Experimentally, CO2 huff-n-puff tests on shale core were conducted. A theoretical field scale simulation model was constructed. The effects of injection pressure, injection time, and soaking time on the efficiency of CO2 huff-n-puff were examined. Experimental results indicate that condensate recovery was enhanced to 30.36% after 5 cycles of CO2 huff-n-puff. In addition, simulation results indicate that the injection period and injection pressure should be optimized to ensure that the pressure of the main condensate region remains higher than the dew point pressure. The soaking process should be determined based on the injection pressure. This work may shed light on a better understanding of the CO2 huff-n-puff- enhanced oil recovery (EOR) strategy in shale gas condensate reservoirs.
Second Generation Bioethanol Production: On the Use of Pulp and Paper Industry Wastes as Feedstock
Authors: Branco Rita H. R. , Serafim Luísa S. , Xavier Ana M. R. B.
Published: December 2018

Due to the health and environment impacts of fossil fuels utilization, biofuels have been investigated as a potential alternative renewable source of energy. Bioethanol is currently the most produced biofuel, mainly of first generation, resulting in food-fuel competition. Second generation bioethanol is produced from lignocellulosic biomass, but a costly and difficult pretreatment is required. The pulp and paper industry has the biggest income of biomass for non-food-chain production, and, simultaneously generates a high amount of residues. According to the circular economy model, these residues, rich in monosaccharides, or even in polysaccharides besides lignin, can be utilized as a proper feedstock for second generation bioethanol production. Biorefineries can be integrated in the existing pulp and paper industrial plants by exploiting the high level of technology and also the infrastructures and logistics that are required to fractionate and handle woody biomass. This would contribute to the diversification of products and the increase of profitability of pulp and paper industry with additional environmental benefits. This work reviews the literature supporting the feasibility of producing ethanol from Kraft pulp, spent sulfite liquor, and pulp and paper sludge, presenting and discussing the practical attempt of biorefineries implementation in pulp and paper mills for bioethanol production.
Fusarium graminearum Colors and Deoxynivalenol Synthesis at Different Water Activity
Authors: Cambaza Edgar , Koseki Shigenobu , Kawamura Shuso
Published: December 2018

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a well-known mycotoxin, responsible for outbreaks of gastrointestinal disorders in Japan. Fusarium graminearum, a parasite of cereal crops, produces this toxin and this is one of the reasons why it is important to understand its metabolism. It is possible to predict the mold’s color change and the quantity of DON synthesized throughout its lifecycle. Furthermore, aw has been found to affect the amount of DON. This study aimed to analyze the potential of F. graminearum surface color as a predictor of DON concentration at aw = 0.94, 0.97, and 0.99. Thus, 36 specimens were incubated at 25 °C, 12 at each aw. After 4, 8, 12, and 16 days, three specimens from each aw were collected for color analysis and DON quantification. For color analysis, photos were taken and red, green and blue (RGB) channels were measured on ImageJ software. DON was quantified through liquid chromatography (HPLC). Color changes were only observed at aw = 0.99 because at lower aw the molds presented high growth of white mycelium. Yet, DON increased in all cases. It was only possible to relate the colors with DON concentration at aw = 0.99, where they presented inverse proportionality.
Drivers of Irrational Use of Antibiotics in Europe
Authors: Machowska Anna , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia
Published: December 2018

The unnecessary use of antibiotics and concomitant rapid growth of antibiotic resistance (ABR) is a widely acknowledged threat to global health, development, and sustainability. While the underlying cause of ABR is undoubtedly the overall volume of antibiotic use in general, irrational antibiotic use, which is influenced by several interrelated factors, is a major contributory factor. Here, we aimed to present and describe selected main drivers of irrational use of antibiotics in Europe. We performed a broad search of the current literature in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, as well as various institutional websites (World Health Organization, European Observatory, European Commission) to provide a new perspective on selected drivers of irrational antibiotic use in Europe. We also searched for relevant literature using snowballing, i.e., using reference lists of papers to identify additional papers. In this narrative review, we present that major factors among the general public driving antibiotic resistance are lack of public knowledge and awareness, access to antibiotics without prescription and leftover antibiotics, and knowledge attitude and perception of prescribers and dispensers, inadequate medical training, pharmaceutical promotion, lack of rapid and sufficient diagnostic tests, and patient–doctor interaction as major factors among healthcare providers. We further discuss initiatives that, if taken and implemented, can have an impact on and improve the current situation in Europe.
Using Grey Incidence Analysis Approach in Portfolio Selection
Authors: Škrinjarić Tihana , Šego Boško
Published: December 2018

Due to the development of financial markets, products, financial and mathematical models, portfolio selection today represents a comprehensive set of activities. Investors take into consideration many different factors, such as the market factors, return distribution characteristics and financial statements information. This research applies a Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) approach to evaluate the performance on a sample of stocks by taking those different factors into consideration. The results based upon a sample of 55 stocks for the trading year 2017 on the Croatian capital market show that using GRA approach in portfolio selection provides useful guidance for investors when making investment decisions, and better portfolio results in terms of risk and return are reachable compared to an equally weighted portfolio benchmark.
Increased Chromosome Aberrations in Cells Exposed Simultaneously to Simulated Microgravity and Radiation
Authors: Hada Megumi , Ikeda Hiroko , Rhone Jordan R. , Beitman Andrew J. , Plante Ianik , Souda Hikaru , Yoshida Yukari , Held Kathryn D. , Fujiwara Keigi , Saganti Premkumar B. , Takahashi Akihisa
Published: December 2018

Space radiation and microgravity (μG) are two major environmental stressors for humans in space travel. One of the fundamental questions in space biology research is whether the combined effects of μG and exposure to cosmic radiation are interactive. While studies addressing this question have been carried out for half a century in space or using simulated μG on the ground, the reported results are ambiguous. For the assessment and management of human health risks in future Moon and Mars missions, it is necessary to obtain more basic data on the molecular and cellular responses to the combined effects of radiation and µG. Recently we incorporated a μG–irradiation system consisting of a 3D clinostat synchronized to a carbon-ion or X-ray irradiation system. Our new experimental setup allows us to avoid stopping clinostat rotation during irradiation, which was required in all other previous experiments. Using this system, human fibroblasts were exposed to X-rays or carbon ions under the simulated μG condition, and chromosomes were collected with the premature chromosome condensation method in the first mitosis. Chromosome aberrations (CA) were quantified by the 3-color fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) method. Cells exposed to irradiation under the simulated μG condition showed a higher frequency of both simple and complex types of CA compared to cells irradiated under the static condition by either X-rays or carbon ions.
Bacterial Small RNAs in the Genus Herbaspirillum spp.
Authors: Carvalho Garcia Amanda , Dos Santos Vera Lúcia Pereira , Santos Cavalcanti Teresa Cristina , Collaço Luiz Martins , Graf Hans
Published: December 2018

The genus Herbaspirillum includes several strains isolated from different grasses. The identification of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the genus Herbaspirillum is an important stage studying the interaction of these molecules and the way they modulate physiological responses of different mechanisms, through RNA–RNA interaction or RNA–protein interaction. This interaction with their target occurs through the perfect pairing of short sequences (cis-encoded ncRNAs) or by the partial pairing of short sequences (trans-encoded ncRNAs). However, the companion Hfq can stabilize interactions in the trans-acting class. In addition, there are Riboswitches, located at the 5′ end of mRNA and less often at the 3′ end, which respond to environmental signals, high temperatures, or small binder molecules. Recently, CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats), in prokaryotes, have been described that consist of serial repeats of base sequences (spacer DNA) resulting from a previous exposure to exogenous plasmids or bacteriophages. We identified 285 ncRNAs in Herbaspirillum seropedicae (H. seropedicae) SmR1, expressed in different experimental conditions of RNA-seq material, classified as cis-encoded ncRNAs or trans-encoded ncRNAs and detected RNA riboswitch domains and CRISPR sequences. The results provide a better understanding of the participation of this type of RNA in the regulation of the metabolism of bacteria of the genus Herbaspirillum spp.
Invasive Colon Cancer Cells Induce Transdifferentiation of Endothelium to Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts through Microtubules Enriched in Tubulin-β3
Authors: Wawro Marta Ewelina , Chojnacka Katarzyna , Wieczorek-Szukała Katarzyna , Sobierajska Katarzyna , Niewiarowska Jolanta
Published: December 2018

Colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world, is usually diagnosed in invasive stages. The interactions between cancer cells and cells located in their niche remain the crucial mechanism inducing tumor metastasis. The most important among those cells are cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the heterogeneous group of myofibroblasts transdifferentiated from numerous cells of different origin, including endothelium. The endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is associated with modulation of cellular morphology, polarization and migration ability as a result of microtubule cytoskeleton reorganization. Here we reveal, for the first time, that invasive colon cancer cells regulate EndMT of endothelium via tubulin-β3 upregulation and its phosphorylation. Thus, we concluded that therapies based on inhibition of tubulin-β3 expression or phosphorylation, or blocking tubulin-β3’s recruitment to the microtubules, together with anti-inflammatory chemotherapeutics, are promising means to treat advanced stages of colon cancer.
NLRP3-Dependent and -Independent Processing of Interleukin (IL)-1β in Active Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Ranson Nicole , Veldhuis Mark , Mitchell Brent , Fanning Scott , Cook Anthony , Kunde Dale , Eri Rajaraman
Published: December 2018

A contributing factor in the development of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) is the disruption of innate and adaptive signaling pathways due to aberrant cytokine production. The cytokine, interleukin (IL)-1β, is highly inflammatory and its production is tightly regulated through transcriptional control and both inflammasome-dependent and inflammasome- independent proteolytic cleavage. In this study, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence confocal microscopy were used to (1) assess the mRNA expression of NLRP3, IL-1β, CASP1 and ASC in paired biopsies from UC and CD patient, and (2) the colonic localization and spatial relationship of NLRP3 and IL-1β in active and quiescent disease. NLRP3 and IL-1β were found to be upregulated in active UC and CD. During active disease, IL-1β was localized to the infiltrate of lamina propria immune cells, which contrasts with the near-exclusive epithelial cell layer expression during non-inflammatory conditions. In active disease, NLRP3 was consistently expressed within the neutrophils and other immune cells of the lamina propria and absent from the epithelial cell layer. The disparity in spatial localization of IL-1β and NLRP3, observed only in active UC, which is characterized by a neutrophil-dominated lamina propria cell population, implies inflammasome-independent processing of IL-1β. Consistent with other acute inflammatory conditions, these results suggest that blocking both caspase-1 and neutrophil-derived serine proteases may provide an additional therapeutic option for treating active UC.
Glycoprotein Non-Metastatic Protein B: An Emerging Biomarker for Lysosomal Dysfunction in Macrophages
Authors: Van der Lienden Martijn J.C. , Gaspar Paulo , Boot Rolf , Aerts Johannes M.F.G. , Van Eijk Marco
Published: December 2018

Several diseases are caused by inherited defects in lysosomes, the so-called lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs). In some of these LSDs, tissue macrophages transform into prominent storage cells, as is the case in Gaucher disease. Here, macrophages become the characteristic Gaucher cells filled with lysosomes laden with glucosylceramide, because of their impaired enzymatic degradation. Biomarkers of Gaucher cells were actively searched, particularly after the development of costly therapies based on enzyme supplementation and substrate reduction. Proteins selectively expressed by storage macrophages and secreted into the circulation were identified, among which glycoprotein non-metastatic protein B (GPNMB). This review focusses on the emerging potential of GPNMB as a biomarker of stressed macrophages in LSDs as well as in acquired pathologies accompanied by an excessive lysosomal substrate load in macrophages.
Brazing Strategies for High Temperature Ultrasonic Transducers Based on LiNbO3 Piezoelectric Elements
Authors: Bosyj Christopher , Bhadwal Neelesh , Coyle Thomas , Sinclair Anthony
Published: December 2018

Long-term installation of ultrasonic transducers in high temperature environments allows for continuous monitoring of critical components and processes without the need to halt industrial operations. Transducer designs based on the high-Curie-point piezoelectric material lithium niobate have been shown to both be effective and stable at extreme temperatures for long-term installation. In this study, several brazing techniques are evaluated, all of which aim to provide both mechanical bonding and acoustic coupling directly to a bare lithium niobate piezoelectric element. Two brazing materials—a novel silver-copper braze applied in a reactive air environment and an aluminum-based braze applied in a vacuum environment—are found to be suitable for ultrasound transmission at elevated temperatures. Reliable wide-bandwidth and low-noise ultrasound transmission is achieved between room temperature and 800 °C.
Transcriptional Programs and Regeneration Enhancers Underlying Heart Regeneration
Authors: Begeman Ian J. , Kang Junsu
Published: December 2018

The heart plays the vital role of propelling blood to the entire body, which is essential to life. While maintaining heart function is critical, adult mammalian hearts poorly regenerate damaged cardiac tissue upon injury and form scar tissue instead. Unlike adult mammals, adult zebrafish can regenerate injured hearts with no sign of scarring, making zebrafish an ideal model system with which to study the molecular mechanisms underlying heart regeneration. Investigation of heart regeneration in zebrafish together with mice has revealed multiple cardiac regeneration genes that are induced by injury to facilitate heart regeneration. Altered expression of these regeneration genes in adult mammals is one of the main causes of heart regeneration failure. Previous studies have focused on the roles of these regeneration genes, yet the regulatory mechanisms by which the expression of cardiac regeneration genes is precisely controlled are largely unknown. In this review, we will discuss the importance of differential gene expression for heart regeneration, the recent discovery of cardiac injury or regeneration enhancers, and their impact on heart regeneration.
Optimizing Detection of Kidney Transplant Injury by Assessment of Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA via Massively Multiplex PCR
Authors: Sigdel Tara , Archila Felipe , Constantin Tudor , Prins Sarah , Liberto Juliane , Damm Izabella , Towfighi Parhom , Navarro Samantha , Kirkizlar Eser , Demko Zachary , Ryan Allison , Sigurjonsson Styrmir , Sarwal Reuben , Hseish Szu-Chuan , Chan-On Chitranon , Zimmermann Bernhard , Billings Paul , Moshkevich Solomon , Sarwal Minnie
Published: December 2018

Standard noninvasive methods for detecting renal allograft rejection and injury have poor sensitivity and specificity. Plasma donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) has been reported to accurately detect allograft rejection and injury in transplant recipients and shown to discriminate rejection from stable organ function in kidney transplant recipients. This study used a novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based massively multiplexed PCR (mmPCR) methodology to measure dd-cfDNA in various types of renal transplant recipients for the detection of allograft rejection/injury without prior knowledge of donor genotypes. A total of 300 plasma samples (217 biopsy-matched: 38 with active rejection (AR), 72 borderline rejection (BL), 82 with stable allografts (STA), and 25 with other injury (OI)) were collected from 193 unique renal transplant patients; dd- cfDNA was processed by mmPCR targeting 13,392 SNPs. Median dd-cfDNA was significantly higher in samples with biopsy-proven AR (2.3%) versus BL (0.6%), OI (0.7%), and STA (0.4%) (p < 0.0001 all comparisons). The SNP-based dd-cfDNA assay discriminated active from non-rejection status with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.87, 88.7% sensitivity (95% CI, 77.7–99.8%) and 72.6% specificity (95% CI, 65.4–79.8%) at a prespecified cutoff (>1% dd-cfDNA). Of 13 patients with AR findings at a routine protocol biopsy six-months post transplantation, 12 (92%) were detected positive by dd-cfDNA. This SNP-based dd-cfDNA assay detected allograft rejection with superior performance compared with the current standard of care. These data support the feasibility of using this assay to detect disease prior to renal failure and optimize patient management in the case of allograft injury.
Atomic Structure and Mechanical Properties of Twisted Bilayer Graphene
Authors: Zheng Shaolong , Cao Qiang , Liu Sheng , Peng Qing
Published: December 2018

We studied the atomic structure and mechanical properties of twisted bilayer graphene with a different twist angle using molecular dynamic simulations. The two layers are corrugated after energy minimization. We found two different modes of corrugation. The mechanical properties are tested both in-plane and perpendicular to the plane. The in-plane properties are dominated by the orientation of graphene. The perpendicular properties depend on the twist angle, as the larger the twist angle, the higher the intrinsic strength.
Microstructural Investigation of LME Crack Initiated in Ferritic/Martensitic Steel T91 Loaded in Liquid Lead-Bismuth Eutectic at 300 °C
Authors: Halodová Patricie , Lorinčík Jan , Hojná Anna
Published: December 2018

Liquid lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE) is one of the candidate materials for advanced nuclear systems. The structural materials used in contact with LBE are selected according to the resistance to liquid metal corrosion, irradiation embrittlement, and compatibility with the coolant. However, simultaneous presence of mechanical strain and LBE environment can induce liquid metal embrittlement (LME) in these materials. In this study, a specimen from candidate ferritic-martensitic steel T91 was tested by Constant Extension Rate Tensile (CERT) test exposed to PbBi environment with oxygen concentration 6 × 10−6 wt % at 300 °C up to rupture. Post-test examination using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a deep crack indicating features of LME in the plastic strained region of the tested specimen. Further investigations focused on characterization of the fracture path and microstructure determination using focused ion beam (FIB) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry/electron backscatter diffraction (EDX/EBSD). This observation revealed that the dominant LME failure mode of the observed crack is translath or transgranular and the crack stopped at the high-angle grain boundary. The role of oxides in the crack initiation is discussed.
Dependence of Atomic Thickness on Interfacial Conditions and Magnetocrystalline Anisotropy in SmCo5/Sm2Co17 Multilayer
Authors: Jekal Soyoung
Published: December 2018

We have performed first-principles calculations to study the interfacial exchange coupling and magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy in a SmCo 5 /Sm 2 Co 17 multilayer model system. The phase of SmCo 5 and Sm 2 Co 17 stacking along (0001) direction are structurally well matched. The atomic structure, including the alignment and the separation between layers, were firstly optimized. Then the non-collinear magnetic structures were calculated to explore the exchange coupling across the interface and the variation of magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy. We found that the inter-phase exchange coupling strength, rotating behavior and magnetocrystalline anisotropy strongly depend on the atomic thickness of the SmCo 5 and Sm 2 Co 17 phase.
Interfacial Spin Manipulation of Nickel-Quinonoid Complex Adsorbed on Co(001) Substrate
Authors: Reddy Indukuru Ramesh , Oppeneer Peter M. , Tarafder Kartick
Published: December 2018

We studied the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of a recently synthesized Ni(II)-quinonoid complex upon adsorption on a magnetic Co(001) substrate. Our density functional theory + U (DFT+U) calculations predict that the molecule undergoes a spin-state switching from low-spin S = 0 in the gas phase to high-spin S ≈ 1 when adsorbed on the Co(001) surface. A strong covalent interaction of the quinonoid rings and surface atoms leads to an increase of the Ni–O(N) bond lengths in the chemisorbed molecule that support the spin-state switching. Our DFT+U calculations show that the molecule is ferromagnetically coupled to the substrate. The Co surface–Ni center exchange mechanism was carefully investigated. We identified an indirect exchange interaction via the quinonoid ligands that stabilizes the molecule’s spin moment in ferromagnetic alignment with the Co surface magnetization.
An Application of Multicriteria Decision-making for the Evaluation of Alternative Monorail Routes
Authors: Hamurcu Mustafa , Eren Tamer
Published: December 2018

Urban transportation planning is important for a metropolitan city. Route selection, which is among the decisions of urban transportation planning, is also important in terms of developing the urban transportation. This study contains the route selection for the planned monorail transport system that is a new system in Ankara. The most suitable monorail route was selected among the determined eight alternative monorail routes. In this decision process, we used the Analytic Network Process (ANP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, which is one of the multi-criteria decision-making methods. Finally, we provided the most suitable ranking and planning with the selection process for the development of urban transportation.
Paenidigyamycin A, Potent Antiparasitic Imidazole Alkaloid from the Ghanaian Paenibacillus sp. DE2SH
Authors: Osei Enoch , Kwain Samuel , Mawuli Gilbert Tetevi , Anang Abraham Kwabena , Owusu Kofi Baffour-Awuah , Camas Mustafa , Camas Anil Sazak , Ohashi Mitsuko , Alexandru-Crivac Cristina-Nicoleta , Deng Hai , Jaspars Marcel , Kyeremeh Kwaku
Published: December 2018

A new alkaloid paenidigyamycin A (1) was obtained from the novel Ghanaian Paenibacillus sp. isolated from the mangrove rhizosphere soils of the Pterocarpus santalinoides tree growing in the wetlands of the Digya National Park, Ghana. Compound 1 was isolated on HPLC at tR = 37.0 min and its structure determined by MS, 1D, and 2D-NMR data. When tested against L. major, 1 (IC50 0.75 µM) was just as effective as amphotericin B (IC50 0.31 µM). Against L. donovani, 1 (IC50 7.02 µM) was twenty-two times less active than amphotericin B (IC50 0.32 µM), reinforcing the unique effectiveness of 1 against L. major. For T. brucei brucei, 1 (IC50 0.78 µM) was ten times more active than the laboratory standard Coptis japonica (IC50 8.20 µM). The IC50 of 9.08 µM for 1 against P. falciparum 3d7 compared to artesunate (IC50 36 nM) was not strong, but this result suggests the possibility of using the paenidigyamycin scaffold for the development of potent antimalarial drugs. Against cercariae, 1 showed high anticercaricidal activity compared to artesunate. The minimal lethal concentration (MLC) and minimal effective concentration (MEC) of the compound were 25 and 6.25 µM, respectively, while artesunate was needed in higher quantities to produce such results. However, 1 (IC50 > 100 µM) was not active against T. mobilensis.
Effect of Co2O3 on Oxidation Induration and Reduction Swelling of Chromium-Bearing Vanadium Titanomagnetite Pellets with Simulated Coke Oven Gas
Authors: Tang Weidong , Yang Songtao , Yang He , Xue Xiangxin
Published: December 2018

This study discusses the oxidation induration and swelling behavior of chromium-bearing vanadium titanomagnetite pellets (CVTP) with Co2O3 additions. The reduction swelling index (RSI) and compressive strength of reduced CVTP (CSRC) were investigated with simulated coke oven gas (COG). The results show that the compressive strength (CS) of CVTP decreases from 2448 to 1983 N and the porosity of CVTP increases from 14.86 to 22.49% with increasing Co2O3 additions. The Co2O3 mainly exists in the form of CoFe2O4 in both of CVTP and reduced CVTP, and the CoFe2O4 is hard to be reduced by thermodynamic calculation. The Co-bearing phase mainly distributes on gap edges and among adjacent hematite grains. Many cracks and pores distribute along the grain boundaries and damage the connection of hematite grains. The CSRC decreases from 901 to 376 N, and RSI of reduced CVTP increases from 5.87 to 9.05% with increasing Co2O3 additions. The Co2O3 addition facilitates the aggregation and diffusion of metallic iron particles, and the aggregations of metallic iron thicken the lamellar crystals. The pores and interval of grains enlarge with increasing Co2O3 additions. This study can supply the theoretical and technical basis for the utilization of CVTP and waste residue-bearing cobalt with COG recyclable technology.
Correlations between High-Temperature Oxidation Kinetics and Thermal Radiation Characteristics of Micro-Structured Nickel Surfaces Oxidized at 1173 K
Authors: Li Biying , Fu Tairan , Shi Congling
Published: December 2018

Micro-structured surface functional materials were widely used in electronics, batteries, solar cells, and many other products. However, oxidation at high temperatures greatly affects the material service life and performance. This study focuses on the oxide layer characteristics after high-temperature oxidation and the thermal emissivity of metal materials with micro-structured surfaces. Micro-structured surfaces with various groove morphologies were prepared on 99.9% purity nickel samples. The high-temperature oxidation characteristics of the nickel samples with the microstructure surfaces and the total hemispherical emissivities were measured after various oxidation times in high-temperature (1173 K) air to characterize the correlations between the micro-structure surface oxidization and the emissivity at elevated temperatures. The initial surface roughness greatly affects the surface roughness after oxidation with the oxidation increasing the surface roughness on smooth or less rough surfaces but making the surface smoother for very rough surfaces. The oxidation results show that rougher initial surfaces have larger oxide grain sizes with longer oxidation times leading to smaller grain sizes. The measured total hemispherical emissivity increased with the temperature (500–1400 K) and the oxide layer thickness. The experiments further illustrates that, for the same oxide layer thickness, the measured emissivities become larger for oxides with larger grain sizes caused by the rougher original surfaces. This analysis provides an understanding of the oxidation kinetics of microstructured surfaces and how the oxidized microstructure surfaces affect the thermal radiation properties.