bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Patellar Contact Pressure Changes after Static versus Dynamic Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstructions Using a Finite Element Model
Authors: Sanchis-Alfonso Vicente , Ginovart Gerard , Alastruey-López Diego , Montesinos-Berry Erik , Monllau Joan Carles , Alberich-Bayarri Angel , Pérez María Angeles
Published: December 2019

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of various medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) fixation techniques on patellar pressure compared with the native knee. Methods: A finite element model of the patellofemoral joint consisting of approximately 30,700 nodes and 22,200 elements was created from computed tomography scans of 24 knees with chronic lateral patellar instability. Patellar contact pressures and maximum MPFL graft stress at five positions of flexion (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120°) were analyzed in three types of MPFL reconstruction (MPFLr): (1) static/anatomic, (2) dynamic, using the adductor magnus tendon (AMT) as the femoral fixation, and (3) dynamic, using the quadriceps tendon as the attachment (medial quadriceps tendon-femoral ligament (MQTFL) reconstruction). Results: In the static/anatomic technique, the patellar contact pressures at 0° and 30° were greater than in the native knee. As in a native knee, the contact pressures at 60°, 90°, and 120° were very low. The maximum MPFL graft stress at 0° and 30° was greater than in a native knee. However, the MPFL graft was loose at 60°, 90°, and 120°, meaning it had no tension. In the dynamic MPFLr using the AMT as a pulley, the patellar contact pressures were like those of a native knee throughout the entire range of motion. However, the maximum stress of the MPFL graft at 0° was less than that of a native ligament. Yet, the maximum MPFL graft stress was greater at 30° than in a native ligament. After 30° of flexion, the MPFL graft loosened, similarly to a native knee. In the dynamic MQTFL reconstruction, the maximum patellar contact pressure was slightly greater than in a normal knee. The maximum stress of the MPFL graft was much greater at 0° and 30° than that of a native MPFL. After 30° of flexion, the MQPFL graft loosened just as in the native knee. Conclusions: The patellar contact pressures after the dynamic MPFLr were like those of the native knee, whereas a static reconstruction resulted in greater pressures, potentially increasing the risk of patellofemoral osteoarthritis in the long term. Therefore, the dynamic MPFLr might be a safer option than a static reconstruction from a biomechanical perspective.
State-of-the-Art Research on Motion Control of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships
Authors: Wang Le , Wu Qing , Liu Jialun , Li Shijie , Negenborn Rudy
Published: December 2019

At present, with the development of waterborne transport vehicles, research on ship faces a new round of challenges in terms of intelligence and autonomy. The concept of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) has been put forward by the International Maritime Organization in 2017, in which MASS become the new focus of the waterborne transportation industry. This paper elaborates on the state-of-the-art research on motion control of MASS. Firstly, the characteristics and current research status of unmanned surface vessels in MASS and conventional ships are summarized, and the system composition of MASS is analyzed. In order to better realize the self-adaptability of the MASS motion control, the theory and algorithm of ship motion control-related systems are emphatically analyzed under the condition of classifying ship motion control. Especially, the application of intelligent algorithms in the ship control field is summarized and analyzed. Finally, this paper summarizes the challenges faced by MASS in the model establishment, motion control algorithms, and real ship experiments, and proposes the composition of MASS motion control system based on variable autonomous control strategy. Future researches on the accuracy and diversity of developments and applications to MASS motion control are suggested.
Nonparametric Econometric Methods and Applications
Authors: Stengos Thanasis
Published: December 2019

An area of very active research in econometrics over the last 30 years has been that of non- and semi-parametric methods. These methods have provided ways to complement more-traditional parametric approaches in terms of robust alternatives, as well as preliminary data analysis. The present Special Issue collects a number of new contributions, both theoretical and empirical that cover a wide spectrum of areas such as financial economics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, labor economics, and economic growth as well as statistical theory and methodology.
A Facile Synthesis of Core-Shell SiO2@Cu-LBMS Nano-Microspheres for Drug Sustained Release Systems
Authors: Wang Hui , Yang Haifeng , Zhao Lifang
Published: December 2019

A well-dispersed SiO2@Layered hydroxide cupric benzoate (SiO2@Cu-LBMS) with a hierarchical structure have been synthesized by a facile method. The layered hydroxide cupric benzoate with a structure of layered basic metal salt (Cu-LBMS) was directly deposited on the surface of silica spheres without any blinder. The morphology of the SiO2@Cu-LBMS nano-microsphere was observed by SEM, and the reaction conditions was also discussed. In addition, the XRD patterns and FTIR spectra provide consistent evidence to the formation of SiO2@Cu-LBMS nano-microspheres. The release behavior and drug loading capability of SiO2@Cu-LBMS microspheres were also investigated by using ibuprofen, aspirin and salicylic acid as model drugs. The results indicated that the drug loading capability of SiO2@Cu-LBMS nano-microspheres was much larger than layered hydroxide cupric benzoate, and the releasing time was significantly prolonged than layered hydroxide cupric benzoate and their physical mixture.
Hybrid-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Used in Frozen Shaft Lining Structure in Coal Mines
Authors: Yao Zhishu , Li Xiang , Wu Taoli , Yang Long , Liu Xiaohu
Published: December 2019

To address the cracking and leaking of concrete in frozen shaft linings in deep and thick topsoil layers in coal mines, hybrid-fiber-reinforced concrete (HFRC) was developed. First, the composition of the reference concrete was obtained by investigating high-strength concrete commonly used in shaft linings, and two dosages of polyvinyl alcohol fiber (PVAF) and polypropylene plastic steel fiber (PPSF) were obtained by the mixing test. Then, tests of early cracks of concrete were conducted; results showed that HFRC could almost avoid early cracks, exhibiting an advantage in early crack resistance. Thus, HFRC can play a significant role in improving the durability of frozen shaft linings in complex underground environments. Furthermore, a series of mechanical property tests were carried out. The results showed that the compressive strength of HFRC was similar to that of the reference concrete, but the tensile and flexural strength of HFRC was 42.7% and 35.1% higher than that of the reference concrete, respectively. Finally, an analog simulation model test of shaft linings was conducted. The new type of shaft lining structure containing hybrid fibers (HFs) exhibited plastic deformation characteristics under load, and the maximum hoop strain was −3562 με. It addressed the problem of high brittleness of frozen shaft lining structures of ordinary high-strength concrete and improved the toughness and crack resistance. HFRC is an ideal material for frozen shaft lining structures in deep and thick topsoil.
The First Fundamental Equation and Generalized Wintgen-Type Inequalities for Submanifolds in Generalized Space Forms
Authors: Aquib Mohd. , Boyom Michel Nguiffo , Shahid Mohammad Hasan , Vîlcu Gabriel-Eduard
Published: December 2019

In this work, we first derive a generalized Wintgen type inequality for a Lagrangian submanifold in a generalized complex space form. Further, we extend this inequality to the case of bi-slant submanifolds in generalized complex and generalized Sasakian space forms and derive some applications in various slant cases. Finally, we obtain obstructions to the existence of non-flat generalized complex space forms and non-flat generalized Sasakian space forms in terms of dimension of the vector space of solutions to the first fundamental equation on such spaces.
Inframarginal Model Analysis of the Evolution of Agricultural Division of Labor
Authors: Jiang Xueping , Chang Jen-Mei , Sun Hui
Published: December 2019

Division of labor plays a critical role in many parts of agriculture. For example, a specialized division of labor can lead to the improvement of labor productivity, the reduction of production costs, and the innovation of production technology and organization. At the heart of agricultural management is how the comparative advantages of farmers impact their production decision-making behavior, and, consequently, influence the division of labor structure. In this paper, we apply an infra-marginal model to interpret the selection logic of heterogeneous farmers’ specialized production with exogenous comparative technical advantages and transaction costs. Solving the nonlinear programming problem of the utility function within each respective labor structure leads to a corner equilibrium. Under reasonable assumptions of the model, we reduced the number of possible production–consumption decision modes from the maximum of 64 to an optimal of 3. Through this analysis, we discovered the ranges for transaction efficiency coefficients and preference parameter under which each structure can achieve general equilibrium. Our theoretical model thereby explains the structural evolution of agricultural division of labor.
A New Generalized Taylor-Like Explicit Method for Stiff Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: El-Zahar Essam , Tenreiro Machado José , Ebaid Abdelhalim
Published: December 2019

A new generalised Taylor-like explicit method for stiff ordinary differential equations (ODEs) is proposed. The algorithm is presented in its component and vector forms. The error and stability analysis of the method are developed showing that it has an arbitrary high order of convergence and the L-stability property. Moreover, it is verified that several integration schemes are special cases of the new general form. The method is applied on stiff problems and the numerical solutions are compared with those of the classical Taylor-like integration schemes. The results show that the proposed method is accurate and overcomes the shortcoming of the classical Taylor-like schemes in their component and vector forms.
Forming a Hierarchical Choquet Integral with a GA-Based Heuristic Least Square Method
Authors: Chen Chin-Yi , Huang Jih-Jeng
Published: December 2019

: Identifying the fuzzy measures of the Choquet integral model is an important component in resolving complicated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems. Previous papers solved the above problem by using various mathematical programming models and regression-based methods. However, when considering complicated MCDM problems (e.g., 10 criteria), the presence of too many parameters might result in unavailable or inconsistent solutions. While k-additive or p-symmetric measures are provided to reduce the number of fuzzy measures, they cannot prevent the problem of identifying the fuzzy measures in a high-dimension situation. Therefore, Sugeno and his colleagues proposed a hierarchical Choquet integral model to overcome the problem, but it required the partition information of the criteria, which usually cannot be obtained in practice. In this paper, we proposed a GA-based heuristic least mean-squares algorithm (HLMS) to construct the hierarchical Choquet integral and overcame the above problems. The genetic algorithm (GA) was used here to determine the input variables of the sub-Choquet integrals automatically, according to the objective of the mean square error (MSE), and calculated the fuzzy measures with the HLMS. Then, we summed these sub-Choquet integrals into the final Choquet integral for the purpose of regression or classification. In addition, we tested our method with four datasets and compared these results with the conventional Choquet integral, logit model, and neural network. On the basis of the results, the proposed model was competitive with respect to other models.
Analysis and Nonstandard Numerical Design of a Discrete Three-Dimensional Hepatitis B Epidemic Model
Authors: Macías-Díaz Jorge E. , Ahmed Nauman , Rafiq Muhammad
Published: December 2019

In this work, we numerically investigate a three-dimensional nonlinear reaction-diffusion susceptible-infected-recovered hepatitis B epidemic model. To that end, the stability and bifurcation analyses of the mathematical model are rigorously discussed using the Routh–Hurwitz condition. Numerically, an efficient structure-preserving nonstandard finite-difference time-splitting method is proposed to approximate the solutions of the hepatitis B model. The dynamical consistency of the splitting method is verified mathematically and graphically. Moreover, we perform a mathematical study of the stability of the proposed scheme. The properties of consistency, stability and convergence of our technique are thoroughly analyzed in this work. Some comparisons are provided against existing standard techniques in order to validate the efficacy of our scheme. Our computational results show a superior performance of the present approach when compared against existing methods available in the literature.
The Effect of Increasing Inclusion Levels of a Fucoidan-Rich Extract Derived from Ascophyllum nodosum on Growth Performance and Aspects of Intestinal Health of Pigs Post-Weaning
Authors: Rattigan Ruth , Sweeney Torres , Vigors Stafford , Thornton Kevin , Rajauria Gaurav , O’Doherty John V
Published: December 2019

This study examines the effects of increasing dietary inclusion levels of fucoidan, from a 44% fucoidan extract on the growth performance and intestinal health of pigs post-weaning (PW). Seventy-two newly weaned pigs (8.4 kg (SD 1.06)) were assigned to: (T1) basal diet (BD); (T2) BD + 125 ppm fucoidan; (T3) BD + 250 ppm fucoidan (8 pens/treatment). The appropriate quantity of a 44% fucoidan extract was included to achieve these inclusion levels. Faecal scores were recorded daily. On d15 PW, samples were collected from the intestinal tract from 1 pig/pen from the BD and BD + 250 ppm fucoidan groups. Pigs supplemented with 250 ppm fucoidan had improved faecal scores and increased concentrations of total volatile fatty acids and propionate in the colon (p < 0.05). The fucoidan-rich extract reduced the expression of CLDN5 (duodenum), SCL5A1/SGLT1 and SI (jejunum) and TJP1, FABP2, and SLC5A1 (ileum) (p < 0.05). The extract reduced the relative abundance of Prevotella and Lachnospiraceae (p < 0.05) and increased the abundance of Helicobacter (p < 0.01) in the caecum. However, no negative impact on growth performance or small intestinal morphology was observed. Thus, the inclusion of 250 ppm fucoidan improves faecal consistency without affecting growth performance and therefore warrants further investigation as a supplement for the prevention of PW diarrhoea under more challenging commercial conditions.
Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channels in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Santoni Giorgio , Maggi Federica , Morelli Maria Beatrice , Santoni Matteo , Marinelli Oliviero
Published: December 2019

In mammals, the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels family consists of six different families, namely TRPC (canonical), TRPV (vanilloid), TRPM (melastatin), TRPML (mucolipin), TRPP (polycystin), and TRPA (ankyrin), that are strictly connected with cancer cell proliferation, differentiation, cell death, angiogenesis, migration, and invasion. Changes in TRP channels’ expression and function have been found to regulate cell proliferation and resistance or sensitivity of cancer cells to apoptotic-induced cell death, resulting in cancer-promoting effects or resistance to chemotherapy treatments. This review summarizes the data reported so far on the effect of targeting TRP channels in different types of cancer by using multiple TRP-specific agonists, antagonists alone, or in combination with classic chemotherapeutic agents, microRNA specifically targeting the TRP channels, and so forth, and the in vitro and in vivo feasibility evaluated in experimental models and in cancer patients. Considerable efforts have been made to fight cancer cells, and therapies targeting TRP channels seem to be the most promising strategy. However, more in-depth investigations are required to completely understand the role of TRP channels in cancer in order to design new, more specific, and valuable pharmacological tools.
Additive Nano-Lithography with Focused Soft X-rays: Basics, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Späth Andreas
Published: December 2019

Focused soft X-ray beam induced deposition (FXBID) is a novel technique for direct-write nanofabrication of metallic nanostructures from metal organic precursor gases. It combines the established concepts of focused electron beam induced processing (FEBIP) and X-ray lithography (XRL). The present setup is based on a scanning transmission X-ray microscope (STXM) equipped with a gas flow cell to provide metal organic precursor molecules towards the intended deposition zone. Fundamentals of X-ray microscopy instrumentation and X-ray radiation chemistry relevant for FXBID development are presented in a comprehensive form. Recently published proof-of-concept studies on initial experiments on FXBID nanolithography are reviewed for an overview on current progress and proposed advances of nanofabrication performance. Potential applications and advantages of FXBID are discussed with respect to competing electron/ion based techniques.
Effects of a Simulated Acute Oil Spillage on Bacterial Communities from Arctic and Antarctic Marine Sediments
Authors: Rizzo Carmen , Malavenda Roberta , Gerçe Berna , Papale Maria , Syldatk Christoph , Hausmann Rudolf , Bruni Vivia , Michaud Luigi , Lo Giudice Angelina , Amalfitano Stefano
Published: December 2019

Background: The bacterial community responses to oil spill events are key elements to predict the fate of hydrocarbon pollution in receiving aquatic environments. In polar systems, cold temperatures and low irradiance levels can limit the effectiveness of contamination removal processes. In this study, the effects of a simulated acute oil spillage on bacterial communities from polar sediments were investigated, by assessing the role of hydrocarbon mixture, incubation time and source bacterial community in selecting oil-degrading bacterial phylotypes. Methods: The bacterial hydrocarbon degradation was evaluated by gas chromatography. Flow cytometric and fingerprinting profiles were used to assess the bacterial community dynamics over the experimental incubation time. Results: Direct responses to the simulated oil spill event were found from both Arctic and Antarctic settings, with recurrent bacterial community traits and diversity profiles, especially in crude oil enrichment. Along with the dominance of Pseudomonas spp., members of the well-known hydrocarbon degraders Granulosicoccus spp. and Cycloclasticus spp. were retrieved from both sediments. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that polar bacterial populations are able to respond to the detrimental effects of simulated hydrocarbon pollution, by developing into a more specialized active oil degrading community.
Comparative Genomics Reveals Metabolic Specificity of Endozoicomonas Isolated from a Marine Sponge and the Genomic Repertoire for Host-Bacteria Symbioses
Authors: Alex Anoop , Antunes Agostinho
Published: December 2019

The most recently described bacterial members of the genus Endozoicomonas have been found in association with a wide variety of marine invertebrates. Despite their ubiquity in the host holobiont, limited information is available on the molecular genomic signatures of the symbiotic association of Endozoicomonas with marine sponges. Here, we generated a draft genome of Endozoicomonas sp. OPT23 isolated from the intertidal marine sponge Ophlitaspongia papilla and performed comprehensive comparative genomics analyses. Genome-specific analysis and metabolic pathway comparison of the members of the genus Endozoicomonas revealed the presence of gene clusters encoding for unique metabolic features, such as the utilization of carbon sources through lactate, L-rhamnose metabolism, and a phenylacetic acid degradation pathway in Endozoicomonas sp. OPT23. Moreover, the genome harbors genes encoding for eukaryotic-like proteins, such as ankyrin repeats, tetratricopeptide repeats, and Sel1 repeats, which likely facilitate sponge-bacterium attachment. The genome also encodes major secretion systems and homologs of effector molecules that seem to enable the sponge-associated bacterium to interact with the sponge and deliver the virulence factors for successful colonization. In conclusion, the genome analysis of Endozoicomonas sp. OPT23 revealed the presence of adaptive genomic signatures that might favor their symbiotic lifestyle within the sponge host.
Trace Elements of Cu-(Fe)-Sulfide Inclusions in Bronze Age Copper Slags from South Urals and Kazakhstan: Ore Sources and Alloying Additions
Authors: Artemyev Dmitry A. , Ankushev Maksim N.
Published: December 2019

In the paper, the results of an investigation into trace elements found in slag sulfides from 14 archaeological Bronze Age settlements of the Cis-Urals, Trans-Urals, and North and Central Kazakhstan are presented. The study used Cu-(Fe)-sulfides as indicator minerals. Cu-(Fe)-S minerals in slags are primarily represented by covellite and chalcocite, as well as by rarer bornite and single chalcopyrite grains. Slag sulfides formed relic clasts and neogenic droplets of different shapes and sizes. Supergenic ores in the Bronze Age in Urals and Kazakhstan played a significant role in the mineralogical raw material base. In sulfides, the main indicator elements, Fe, Co, Ni, As, Se, Te, Sb, Ag, Pb, and Bi, are important markers of copper deposit types. Sulfides from olivine Cr-rich spinel containing slags of Ustye, Turganik are characterized by As-Co-Ni high contents and confined to copper deposits in ultramafic rocks. Olivine sulfide-containing slags from Kamenny Ambar, Konoplyanka and Sarlybay 3 are characterized by Co-Se-Te assemblage and confined to mafic rocks. Glassy sulfide-containing slags from Katzbakh 6, Turganik, Ordynsky Ovrag, Ivanovskoe, Tokskoe, Bulanovskoe 2, Kuzminkovskoe 2, Pokrovskoe, Rodnikovoe, and Taldysay are characterized by Ag-Pb-(Ba)-(Bi) assemblage and confined to cupriferous sandstone deposits. High As, Sb, Sn, and Ba contents found in slags can be seen as indicators of alloying or flux components in primary copper smelting. These include samples from Ustye, Katzbakh 6, Rodnikovoe, and Taldysay sites, where high Ba and As slag contents are identified. The compilation of a database with a broad sample of sulfide compositions from Bronze Age slags and mines in the Urals and Kazakhstan will permit the further identification of ore types and raw materials associated with a particular deposit.
Phytofabrication of Silver/Silver Chloride Nanoparticles Using Aqueous Leaf Extract of Oedera genistifolia: Characterization and Antibacterial Potential
Authors: Okaiyeto Kunle , Ojemaye Mike O. , Hoppe Heinrich , Mabinya Leonard V. , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: December 2019

In this present study, silver nanoparticles (Ag/AgCl NPs) were synthesized using an aqueous leaf extract of Oedera genistifolia as a reducing agent. The biosynthesized Ag/AgCl NPs was characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometry, transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). In addition, sequel to antibacterial assay, the cytotoxic effect of the phytofabricated Ag/AgCl NPs was assessed against the HeLa cell line (human cervix adenocarcinoma). The results of the characterization of the synthesized Ag/AgCl NPs indicate the successful synthesis using plant extract as a reducing agent, with UV-Vis spectra between 290–360 nm. TEM results showed that Ag/AgCl NPs was spherical in shape with an average size of 34.2 nm. EDX analysis revealed that the particles were predominantly composed of carbon, oxygen, chlorine, and silver, while FTIR identified major phytochemical compounds, which could be responsible for bio-reducing and capping potential. XRD analysis showed the crystallinity of Ag/AgCl NPs, with a face-centred cubic structure. The studied Ag/AgCl NPs had no cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells and exhibited antibacterial activity (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 0.25–1 mg/mL; minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) 2–16 mg/mL) against both the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria investigated. Findings from this study suggest that this plant as a good candidate for producing new antibacterial drugs.
Development of a Microfluidic Array to Study Drug Response in Breast Cancer
Authors: Virumbrales-Muñoz María , Livingston Megan K. , Farooqui Mehtab , Skala Melissa C. , Beebe David J. , Ayuso Jose M.
Published: December 2019

Luminal geometries are common structures in biology, which are challenging to mimic using conventional in vitro techniques based on the use of Petri dishes. In this context, microfluidic systems can mimic the lumen geometry, enabling a large variety of studies. However, most microfluidic models still rely on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a material that is not amenable for high-throughput fabrication and presents some limitations compared with other materials such as polystyrene. Thus, we have developed a microfluidic device array to generate multiple bio-relevant luminal structures utilizing polystyrene and micro-milling. This platform offers a scalable alternative to conventional microfluidic devices designed in PDMS. Additionally, the use of polystyrene has well described advantages, such as lower permeability to hydrophobic molecules compared with PDMS, while maintaining excellent viability and optical properties. Breast cancer cells cultured in the devices exhibited high cell viability similar to PDMS-based microdevices. Further, co-culture experiments with different breast cell types showed the potential of the model to study breast cancer invasion. Finally, we demonstrated the potential of the microfluidic array for drug screening, testing chemotherapy drugs and photodynamic therapy agents for breast cancer.
Design, Synthesis, and Structural Characterization of Novel Diazaphenothiazines with 1,2,3-Triazole Substituents as Promising Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Morak-Młodawska Beata , Pluta Krystian , Latocha Małgorzata , Jeleń Małgorzata , Kuśmierz Dariusz
Published: December 2019

A series of novel 1,2,3-triazole-diazphenothiazine hybrids was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for anticancer activity against four selected human tumor cell lines (SNB-19, Caco-2, A549, and MDA-MB231). The majority of the synthesized compounds exhibited significant potent activity against the investigated cell lines. Among them, compounds 1d and 4c showed excellent broad spectrum anticancer activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.25 to 4.66 μM and 0.25 to 6.25 μM, respectively. The most promising compound 1d, possessing low cytotoxicity against normal human fibroblasts NHFF, was used for gene expression analysis using reverse transcription–quantitative real-time PCR (RT–qPCR). The expression of H3, TP53, CDKN1A, BCL-2, and BAX genes revealed that these compounds inhibited the proliferation in all cells (H3) and activated mitochondrial events of apoptosis (BAX/BCL-2).
Expanding the Toolbox for Label-Free Enzyme Assays: A Dinuclear Platinum(II) Complex/DNA Ensemble with Switchable Near-IR Emission
Authors: Gabr Moustafa T. , Pigge F. Christopher
Published: December 2019

Switchable luminescent bioprobes whose emission can be turned on as a function of specific enzymatic activity are emerging as important tools in chemical biology. We report a promising platform for the development of label-free and continuous enzymatic assays in high-throughput mode based on the reversible solvent-induced self-assembly of a neutral dinuclear Pt(II) complex. To demonstrate the utility of this strategy, the switchable luminescence of a dinuclear Pt(II) complex was utilized in developing an experimentally simple, fast (10 min), low cost, and label-free turn-on luminescence assay for the endonuclease enzyme DNAse I. The complex displays a near-IR (NIR) aggregation-induced emission at 785 nm in aqueous solution that is completely quenched upon binding to G-quadruplex DNA from the human c-myc oncogene. Luminescence is restored upon DNA degradation elicited by exposure to DNAse I. Correlation between near-IR luminescence intensity and DNAse I concentration in human serum samples allows for fast and label-free detection of DNAse I down to 0.002 U/mL. The Pt(II) complex/DNA assembly is also effective for identification of DNAse I inhibitors, and assays can be performed in multiwell plates compatible with high-throughput screening. The combination of sensitivity, speed, convenience, and cost render this method superior to all other reported luminescence-based DNAse I assays. The versatile response of the Pt(II) complex to DNA structures promises broad potential applications in developing real-time and label-free assays for other nucleases as well as enzymes that regulate DNA topology.
Vitamin E Supplementation and Mitochondria in Experimental and Functional Hyperthyroidism: A Mini-Review
Authors: Napolitano Gaetana , Fasciolo Gianluca , Di Meo Sergio , Venditti Paola
Published: December 2019

Mitochondria are both the main sites of production and the main target of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction with harmful consequences for the cells and the whole organism, resulting in metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, dementia, and aging. To protect themselves from ROS, mitochondria are equipped with an efficient antioxidant system, which includes low-molecular-mass molecules and enzymes able to scavenge ROS or repair the oxidative damage. In the mitochondrial membranes, a major role is played by the lipid-soluble antioxidant vitamin E, which reacts with the peroxyl radicals faster than the molecules of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and in doing so, protects membranes from excessive oxidative damage. In the present review, we summarize the available data concerning the capacity of vitamin E supplementation to protect mitochondria from oxidative damage in hyperthyroidism, a condition that leads to increased mitochondrial ROS production and oxidative damage. Vitamin E supplementation to hyperthyroid animals limits the thyroid hormone-induced increases in mitochondrial ROS and oxidative damage. Moreover, it prevents the reduction of the high functionality components of the mitochondrial population induced by hyperthyroidism, thus preserving cell function.
Maternal Obesity in Mice Exacerbates the Allergic Inflammatory Response in the Airways of Male Offspring
Authors: e-Lacerda Rodrigo Rodrigues , Teixeira Caio Jordão , Bordin Silvana , Antunes Edson , Anhê Gabriel Forato
Published: December 2019

It was previously demonstrated that non-allergen-sensitized rodents born to mothers exposed to a high-fat diet (HFD) spontaneously develop lower respiratory compliance and higher respiratory resistance. In the present study, we sought to determine if mice born to mothers consuming HFD would exhibit changes in inflammatory response and lung remodeling when subjected to ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization/challenge in adult life. Mice born to dams consuming either HFD or standard chow had increased bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) levels of IL-1β, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, TNF-α and TGF-β1 after challenge with OVA. IL-4, IL-13, TNF-α and TGF-β1 levels were further increased in the offspring of HFD-fed mothers. Mice born to obese dams also had exacerbated values of leukocyte infiltration in lung parenchyma, eosinophil and neutrophil counts in BAL, mucus overproduction and collagen deposition. The programming induced by maternal obesity was accompanied by increased expression of miR-155 in peripheral-blood mononuclear cells and reduced miR-133b in trachea and lung tissue in adult life. Altogether, the present data support the unprecedented notion that the progeny of obese mice display exacerbated responses to sensitization/challenge with OVA, leading to the intensification of the morphological changes of lung remodeling. Such changes are likely to result from long-lasting changes in miR-155 and miR-133b expression.
Evidence That Calebin A, a Component of Curcuma Longa Suppresses NF-κB Mediated Proliferation, Invasion and Metastasis of Human Colorectal Cancer Induced by TNF-β (Lymphotoxin)
Authors: Buhrmann Constanze , Popper Bastian , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B. , Aggarwal Bharat B. , Shakibaei Mehdi
Published: December 2019

Objective: Natural polyphenol Calebin A has been recently discovered as a novel derivate from turmeric with anti-cancer potential. Pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-β (lymphotoxin α) is a stimulant for cancer cell malignity via activation of NF-κB pathway, also in colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we investigated the potential of Calebin A to suppress TNF-β-induced NF-κB signalling in CRC. Materials and Methods: Three distinct CRC cell lines (HCT116, RKO, SW480) were treated in monolayer or 3-dimensional alginate culture with TNF-β, Calebin A, curcumin, BMS-345541, dithiothreitol (DTT) or antisense oligonucleotides-(ASO) against NF-κB. Results: Calebin A suppressed dose-dependent TNF-β-induced CRC cell vitality and proliferation in monolayer culture. Further, in alginate culture, Calebin A significantly suppressed TNF-β-enhanced colonosphere development, as well as invasion and colony formation of all three CRC cell lines investigated. Calebin A specifically blocked TNF-β-induced activation and nuclear translocation of p65-NF-κB, similar to curcumin (natural NF-κB inhibitor), BMS-345541 (specific IKK inhibitor) and ASO-NF-κB. Moreover, Immunofluorescence and Immunoblotting showed that Calebin A, similar to curcumin or BMS-345541 suppressed TNF-β-induced activation and nuclear translocation of p65-NF-κB and the transcription of NF-κB-promoted biomarkers associated with proliferation, migration and apoptosis, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Those findings were potentiated by the specific treatment of extracted nuclei with DTT, which abrogated Calebin A-mediated nuclear p65-NF-κB-inhibition and restored p65-NF-κB-activity in the nucleus. Conclusion: Overall, these results demonstrate, for the first time, that multitargeted Calebin A has an anti-cancer capability on TNF-β-induced malignities through inhibitory targeting of NF-κB activation in the cytoplasm, as well as by suppressing the binding of p65-NF-κB to DNA.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Biofilm Reduces Gingival Epithelial Cell Keratin Expression in an Organotypic Gingival Tissue Culture Model
Authors: Beklen Arzu , Torittu Annamari , Ihalin Riikka , Pöllänen Marja
Published: December 2019

Epithelial cells express keratins, which are essential for the structural integrity and mechanical strength of the cells. In the junctional epithelium (JE) of the tooth, keratins such as K16, K18, and K19, are expressed, which is typical for non-differentiated and rapidly dividing cells. The expression of K17, K4, and K13 keratins can be induced by injury, bacterial irritation, smoking, and inflammation. In addition, these keratins can be found in the sulcular epithelium and in the JE. Our aim was to estimate the changes in K4, K13, K17, and K19 expression in gingival epithelial cells exposed to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. An organotypic gingival mucosa and biofilm co-culture was used as a model system. The effect of the biofilm after 24 h was assessed using immunohistochemistry. The structure of the epithelium was also studied with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The expression of K17 and K19, as well as total keratin expression, decreased in the suprabasal layers of epithelium, which were in close contact with the A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilm. The effect on keratin expression was biofilm specific. The expression of K4 and K13 was low in all of the tested conditions. When stimulated with the A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilm, the epithelial contact site displayed a thick necrotic layer on the top of the epithelium. The A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilm released vesicles, which were found in close contact with the epithelium. After A. actinomycetemcomitans irritation, gingival epithelial cells may lose their resistance and become more vulnerable to bacterial infection.
Isotactic Polybutene-1/Bamboo Powder Composites with Excellent Properties at Initial Stage of Molding
Authors: Wang Bo , Lin Fu-hua , Zhao Yu-ying , Li Xiang-yang , Liu Yan-chao , Li Jing-bo , Han Xiao-Jing , Liu Si-xiao , Ji Xu-ran , Luo Jun , Wei Ying-hui
Published: December 2019

Isotactic polybutylene-1 (iPB) has lots of advantages and is best used as hot water pipe. However, to transform into stable crystal form I, the iPB needs as long as 7 days. In this process, the irreversible damage brings great difficulties to the use of the iPB. The method which convert it directly into crystal I has shortcomings such as being requiring complex operation and being expensive. In this study, an innovative idea was put forward, not paying attention to the crystal transformation of iPB but only focusing on reducing the time it can be applied. In this study, bamboo powder was modified by the silane coupling agent KH570 (KBP) to prepare iPB/KBP composite. The infiltration test and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed that the hydrophilicity of KBP is greatly reduced, which can greatly improve the compatibility of the iPB and KBP. The tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, and flexural modulus of the composites storage for 3 days is equal to the pure iPB with storage 7 days with the KBP additions of 3%, 3%, 7%, and 5%, respectively. The heat deformation temperature (HDT) of the composite with 3% KBP after 1-day storage reached the value of pure iPB storage for 7 days. This provides more space and possibilities for the industrialization of the iPB. The crystallization behavior of iPB/KBP composites proves that the addition of KBP accelerates the crystallization rate of iPB, but the crystallinity of the iPB/KBP composites is not changed. The SEM photograph of iPB/KBP composites showed that when the KBP addition was low the compatibility between KBP and iPB was good. When the KBP addition was increased the agglomeration of KBP in the iPB was very obvious, which leads to the poor mechanical properties of the composite.
Performance Analysis of Colored PLA Products with a Fused Filament Fabrication Process
Authors: Spina Roberto
Published: December 2019

The objective of the present work is to study the influence of color additives used for the polylactic acid (PLA) filament on the final quality of fused filament fabrication (FFF) parts. The main processing parameters of FFF parts were evaluated, identifying the significant correlations between PLA properties and part performance, using a commercial FFF machine. The quality of the products was evaluated in terms of thermo-mechanical properties such as mechanical strength, principal material temperatures, and viscosity. These last properties were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for the thermal measurements and a rotational rheometry (RHEO) for viscosity measurements. Cylindrical specimens were then produced for the compression test. The experimental activity and related testing of products are fully described, pointing out a significant difference in performance between parts made of different colored filaments.
Sequential Scheduling Method for FJSP with Multi-Objective under Mixed Work Calendars
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Wang Menghua , Shen Ling , Song Hongna
Published: December 2019

A sequential scheduling method for multi-objective, flexible job-shop scheduling problem (FJSP) work calendars is proposed. Firstly, the sequential scheduling problem for the multi-objective FJSP under mixed work calendars was described. Secondly, two key technologies to solve such a problem were proposed: one was a time-reckoning technology based on the machine’s work calendar, the other was a sequential scheduling technology. Then, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm with an elite strategy (NSGA-II) was designed to solve the problem. In the algorithm, a two-segment encoding method was used to encode the chromosome. A two-segment crossover and mutation operator were used with an improved strategy of genetic operators therein to ensure feasibility of the chromosomes. Time-reckoning technology was used to calculate start and end time of each process. The sequential scheduling technology was used to implement sequential scheduling. The case study shows that the proposed method can obtain an effective Pareto set of the sequential scheduling problem for multi-objective FJSP under mixed work calendars within an acceptable time.
Systematic Study of Pressure Fluctuation in the Riser of a Dual Inter-Connected Circulating Fluidized Bed: Using Single and Binary Particle Species
Authors: Alghamdi Yusif A. , Peng Zhengbiao , Luo Caimao , Almutairi Zeyad , Moghtaderi Behdad , Doroodchi Elham
Published: December 2019

This study systematically investigates the pressure fluctuation in the riser of a dual interconnected circulating fluidized bed (CFB) representing a 10 kWth cold-flow model (CFM) of a chemical-looping combustion (CLC) system. Specifically, a single-species system (SSS) and a binary-mixtures system (BMS) of particles with different sizes and densities were utilized. The pressure fluctuation was analyzed using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) method. The effect of introducing a second particle, changing the inventory, composition (i.e., 5, 10 to 20 wt.%), particle size ratio, and fluidization velocity were investigated. For typical SSS experiments, the results were similar to those scarcely reported in the literature, where the pressure fluctuation intensity was influenced by varying the initial operating conditions. The pressure fluctuations of BMS were investigated in detail and compared with those obtained from SSS experiments. BMS exhibited different behaviour; it had intense pressure fluctuation in the air reactor and in the riser when compared to SSS experiments. The standard deviation (SD) of the pressure fluctuation was found to be influenced by the fluidization regime and initial operating conditions, while the power spectrum density (PSD) values were more sensitive to the presence of the particles with the higher terminal velocity in the binary mixture.
Model Study on Burden Distribution in COREX Melter Gasifier
Authors: Li Haifeng , Zou Zongshu , Luo Zhiguo , Shao Lei , Liu Wenhui
Published: December 2019

COREX is one of the commercialized smelting reduction ironmaking processes. It mainly includes two reactors, i.e., a (reduction) shaft furnace (SF) and a melter gasifier (MG). In comparison with the conventional blast furnace (BF), the COREX MG is not only equipped with a more complicated top charging system consisting of one gimbal distributor for coal and eight flap distributors for direct reduction iron (DRI), but also the growth mechanism of its burden pile is in a developing phase, rather than that in a fully-developed phase in a BF. Since the distribution of charged burden plays a crucial role in determining the gas flow and thus in achieving a stable operation, it is of considerable importance to investigate the burden distribution influenced by the charging system of COREX MG. In the present work, a mathematical model is developed for predicting the burden distribution in terms of burden layer structure and radial ore/coal ratio within the COREX MG. Based on the burden pile width measured in the previous physical experiments at different ring radii on a horizontal flat surface, a new growth mechanism of burden pile is proposed. The validity of the model is demonstrated by comparing the simulated burden layer structure with the corresponding results obtained by physical experiments. Furthermore, the usefulness of the mathematical model is illustrated by performing a set of simulation cases under various charging matrixes. It is hoped that the model can be used as a what-if tool in practice for the COREX operator to gain a better understanding of burden distribution in the COREX MG.
ELM-Based AFL–SLFN Modeling and Multiscale Model-Modification Strategy for Online Prediction
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Zhang He , Wang Yalin , Yang Shaoming
Published: December 2019

Online prediction of key parameters (e.g., process indices) is essential in many industrial processes because online measurement is not available. Data-based modeling is widely used for parameter prediction. However, model mismatch usually occurs owing to the variation of the feed properties, which changes the process dynamics. The current neural network online prediction models usually use fixed activation functions, and it is not easy to perform dynamic modification. Therefore, a few methods are proposed here. Firstly, an extreme learning machine (ELM)-based single-layer feedforward neural network with activation-function learning (AFL–SLFN) is proposed. The activation functions of the ELM are adjusted to enhance the ELM network structure and accuracy. Then, a hybrid model with adaptive weights is established by using the AFL–SLFN as a sub-model, which improves the prediction accuracy. To track the process dynamics and maintain the generalization ability of the model, a multiscale model-modification strategy is proposed. Here, small-, medium-, and large-scale modification is performed in accordance with the degree and the causes of the decrease in model accuracy. In the small-scale modification, an improved just-in-time local modeling method is used to update the parameters of the hybrid model. In the medium-scale modification, an improved elementary effect (EE)-based Morris pruning method is proposed for optimizing the sub-model structure. Remodeling is adopted in the large-scale modification. Finally, a simulation using industrial process data for tailings grade prediction in a flotation process reveals that the proposed method has better performance than some state-of-the-art methods. The proposed method can achieve rapid online training and allows optimization of the model parameters and structure for improving the model accuracy.
Study on a Fault Identification Method of the Hydraulic Pump Based on a Combination of Voiceprint Characteristics and Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Jiang Wanlu , Li Zhenbao , Li Jingjing , Zhu Yong , Zhang Peiyao
Published: December 2019

Aiming at addressing the problem that the faults in axial piston pumps are complex and difficult to effectively diagnose, an axial piston pump fault diagnosis method that is based on the combination of Mel-frequency cepstrum coefficients (MFCC) and the extreme learning machine (ELM) is proposed. Firstly, a sound sensor is used to realize contactless sound signal acquisition of the axial piston pump. The wavelet packet default threshold denoises the original acquired sound signals. Afterwards, windowing and framing are added to the de-noised sound signals. The MFCC voiceprint characteristics of the processed sound signals are extracted. The voiceprint characteristics are divided into a training sample set and test sample set. ELM models with different numbers of neurons in the hidden layers are established for training and testing. The relationship between the number of neurons in the hidden layer and the recognition accuracy rate is obtained. The ELM model with the optimal number of hidden layer neurons is established and trained with the training sample set. The trained ELM model is applied to the test sample set for fault diagnosis. The fault diagnosis results are obtained. The fault diagnosis results of the ELM model are compared with those of the back propagation (BP) neural network and the support vector machine. The results show that the fault diagnosis method that is proposed in this paper has a higher recognition accuracy rate, shorter training and diagnosis times, and better application prospect.