bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 2.6 ppm/°C 2.5 V Piece-Wise Compensated Bandgap Reference with Low Beta Bipolar
Authors: Liu Quanwang , Zhang Bo , Zhen Shaowei , Xue Weidong , Qiao Ming
Published: May 2019

Traditional bandgap reference (BGR) is sensitive to process variation and is not suitable for mass production. Consequently, a stacked piece-wise compensated bandgap reference (SPWBGR) with low beta bipolar is proposed, designed and fabricated in the 0.18 μm high-voltage (HV) BCD process. Two stacked BGR (SBGR) cores make up the proposed BGR circuit. Through setting the target reference voltage near the output voltage of SBGR cores, the feedback resistor ratio is reduced and the base current side-effect is significantly decreased. Notably, the SBGR core is implemented by the low beta npn bipolar and it relaxes the requirement for the high beta bipolar. The two SBGR cores are almost identical except for the temperature slope and feedback ratio. The two cores have different zero temperature coefficient (TC) points, one is set at −5 °C, and the other is set at 60 °C, named as SBGRA and SBGRB, respectively. The SBGRA and SBGRB output the same voltage at their zero TC point. The higher voltage of SBGRA and SBGRB is the output voltage. Through the process of tracking the maximum value of different SBGR cores, the proposed SPWBGR achieves 2.6 ppm/°C TC from −40 to 100 °C. As a result, the average TC for five random samples is 5.3 ppm/°C. The line regulation is 2 mV/V from 4.5 to 5.5 V power supply. The current consumption is 6.8 µA. The active area of the proposed BGR is 0.075 mm2.
Does Energy-Growth and Environment Quality Matter for Agriculture Sector in Pakistan or not? An Application of Cointegration Approach
Authors: Chandio Abbas Ali , Jiang Yuansheng , Rauf Abdul , Mirani Amir Ali , Shar Rashid Usman , Ahmad Fayyaz , Shehzad Khurram
Published: May 2019

The main objective of this paper is to examine the long-term effects of financial development, economic growth, energy consumption (electricity consumption in the agriculture sector), foreign direct investment (FDI), and population on the environmental quality in Pakistan during the period of 1980 to 2016. We use CO2 emissions from the agriculture sector as a proxy indicator for environmental quality. We employ various unit root tests (e.g., ADF, PP, ERS, KPSS) and structural break unit root tests (Z&A, CMR) to check the stationarity and structural break in the data series. Cointegration tests, i.e., Johansen, Engle-Granger, and ARDL cointegration approaches are used to ensure their robustness. Results showed that significant long-term cointegration exists among the variables. Findings also indicated that an increase in financial development and foreign direct investment (FDI) improves environmental quality, whereas the increase in economic growth and electricity consumption in the agriculture sector degrades environmental quality in Pakistan. Based on the findings, we suggest policymakers should provide a conducive environment for foreign investment. Moreover, it is also suggested that a reliance on fossil fuels be reduced and a transition to renewable energy sources be encouraged to decrease the environmental pollution in the country.
Data-Driven Framework to Predict the Rheological Properties of CaCl2 Brine-Based Drill-in Fluid Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Gowida Ahmed , Elkatatny Salaheldin , Ramadan Emad , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez
Published: May 2019

Calcium chloride brine-based drill-in fluid is commonly used within the reservoir section, as it is specially formulated to maximize drilling experience, and to protect the reservoir from being damaged. Monitoring the drilling fluid rheology including plastic viscosity, P V , apparent viscosity, A V , yield point, Y p , flow behavior index, n , and flow consistency index, k , has great importance in evaluating hole cleaning and optimizing drilling hydraulics. Therefore, it is very crucial for the mud rheology to be checked periodically during drilling, in order to control its persistent change. Such properties are often measured in the field twice a day, and in practice, this takes a long time (2–3 h for taking measurements and cleaning the instruments). However, mud weight, M W , and Marsh funnel viscosity, M F , are periodically measured every 15–20 min. The objective of this study is to develop new models using artificial neural network, ANN, to predict the rheological properties of calcium chloride brine-based mud using M W and M F measurements then extract empirical correlations in a white-box mode to predict these properties based on M W and M F . Field measurements, 515 points, representing actual mud samples, were collected to build the proposed ANN models. The optimized parameters of these models resulted in highly accurate results indicated by a high correlation coefficient, R, between the predicted and measured values, which exceeded 0.97, with an average absolute percentage error, AAPE, that did not exceed 6.1%. Accordingly, the developed models are very useful for monitoring the mud rheology to optimize the drilling operation and avoid many problems such as hole cleaning issues, pipe sticking and loss of circulation.
Aeroelastic Analysis of a Coplanar Twin-Rotor Wind Turbine
Authors: Ismaiel Amr , Yoshida Shigeo
Published: May 2019

Multi-rotor system (MRS) wind turbines can be a competitive alternative to large-scale wind turbines. In order to address the structural behavior of the turbine tower, an in-house aeroelastic tool has been developed to study the dynamic responses of a 2xNREL 5MW twin-rotor configuration wind turbine. The developed tool has been verified by comparing the results of a single-rotor configuration to a FAST analysis for the same simulation conditions. Steady flow and turbulent load cases were investigated for the twin-rotor configuration. Results of the simulations have shown that elasticity of the tower should be considered for studying tower dynamic responses. The tower loads, and deformations are not straightforward with the number of rotors added. For an equivalent tower, an additional rotor will increase the tower-top deflection, and the tower-base bending moment both in the fore-aft direction will be more than doubled. The tower torsional stiffness becomes a crucial factor in the case of a twin-rotor tower to avoid a severe torsional deflection. Tower natural frequencies are dominant over the flow conditions in regards to the loads and deflections.
Optimization of the Fuel Cell Renewable Hybrid Power System Using the Control Mode of the Required Load Power on the DC Bus
Authors: Bizon Nicu , Stan Valentin Alexandru , Cormos Angel Ciprian
Published: May 2019

In this paper, a systematic analysis of seven control topologies is performed, based on three possible control variables of the power generated by the Fuel Cell (FC) system: the reference input of the controller for the FC boost converter, and the two reference inputs used by the air regulator and the fuel regulator. The FC system will generate power based on the Required-Power-Following (RPF) control mode in order to ensure the load demand, operating as the main energy source in an FC hybrid power system. The FC system will operate as a backup energy source in an FC renewable Hybrid Power System (by ensuring the lack of power on the DC bus, which is given by the load power minus the renewable power). Thus, power requested from the batteries’ stack will be almost zero during operation of the FC hybrid power system based on RPF-control mode. If the FC hybrid power system operates with a variable load demand, then the lack or excess of power on the DC bus will be dynamically ensured by the hybrid battery/ultracapacitor energy storage system for a safe transition of the FC system under the RPF-control mode. The RPF-control mode will ensure a fair comparison of the seven control topologies based on the same optimization function to improve the fuel savings. The main objective of this paper is to compare the fuel economy obtained by using each strategy under different load cycles in order to identify which is the best strategy operating across entire loading or the best switching strategy using two strategies: one strategy for high load and the other on the rest of the load range. Based on the preliminary results, the fuel consumption using these best strategies can be reduced by more than 15%, compared to commercial strategies.
A Modified Wireless Power Transfer System for Medical Implants
Authors: Ben Fadhel Yosra , Ktata Sana , Sedraoui Khaled , Rahmani Salem , Al-Haddad Kamal
Published: May 2019

Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) is a promising technique, yet still an experimental solution, to replace batteries in existing implants and overcome the related health complications. However, not all techniques are adequate to meet the safety requirements of medical implants for patients. Ensuring a compromise between a small form factor and a high Power Transfer Efficiency (PTE) for transcutaneous applications still remains a challenge. In this work, we have used a resonant inductive coupling for WPT and a coil geometry optimization approach to address constraints related to maintaining a small form factor and the efficiency of power transfer. Thus, we propose a WPT system for medical implants operating at 13.56 MHz using high-efficiency Complementary Metal Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) components and an optimized Printed Circuit Coil (PCC). It is divided into two main circuits, a transmitter circuit located outside the human body and a receiver circuit implanted inside the body. The transmitter circuit was designed with an oscillator, driver and a Class-E power amplifier. Experimental results acquired in the air medium show that the proposed system reaches a power transfer efficiency of 75.1% for 0.5 cm and reaches 5 cm as a maximum transfer distance for 10.67% of the efficiency, all of which holds promise for implementing WPT for medical implants that don’t require further medical intervention, and without taking up a lot of space.
Evaluating Management Strategies for Mount Kenya Forest Reserve and National Park to Reduce Fire Danger and Address Interests of Various Stakeholders
Authors: Nyongesa Kevin W. , Vacik Harald
Published: May 2019

A Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) approach was employed for evaluating and selecting the best management strategy for Mount Kenya Forest Reserve and National Park (MKFRNP). The MCA approach used a set of objectives and criteria (O&C) to address the complexity of the decision problem in a transparent and understandable way, which also facilitated the active participation by diverse professionals, experts, and interest groups. The management strategies were developed to fulfill the key components of MKFRNP management and the current situation in the study area. The seven management strategies focused on climate change mitigation, protection of water catchments, education and research, stakeholder involvement, biodiversity conservation, timber production, and community interests. Forest stations with differing fire danger levels (very high, high, moderate, and low) were selected to compare the performance of the management strategies. The strategies were assessed qualitatively on their potential to improve the current situation according to the entire set of O&C. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to identify the best management strategy according to the overall preferences of all stakeholder groups. The AHP indicated that a strategy focusing on community interests provided the best option to address the current management challenges in all the seven forest stations independently of their fire danger levels. Biodiversity conservation should also be considered by resource managers in order to reduce fire danger and increase the benefits obtained by different stakeholders in MKFRNP.
Lighting Up Dark Matter Haloes
Authors: De Lucia Gabriella
Published: May 2019

Previous chapters of this issue have focused on the formation and evolution of cosmic structures under the influence of gravity alone. In order to make a close link between theoretical models of structure formation and observational data, it is necessary to consider the gas-dynamical and radiative processes that drive the evolution of the baryonic components of dark matter halos. These processes cover many orders of magnitude in physical sizes and time-scales and are entangled in a complex network of actions, back-reactions, and self-regulations. In addition, our understanding of them is far from being complete, even when viewed in isolation. This chapter provides a brief review of the techniques that are commonly used to link the physical properties of galaxies with the dark matter halos in which they reside. I discuss the main features of these methods, as well as their aims, limits, and complementarities.
Geological Map of a Treasure Chest of Geodiversity: The Lavagnina Lakes Area (Alessandria, Italy)
Authors: Scarsi Marco , Crispini Laura , Malatesta Cristina , Spagnolo Chiara , Capponi Giovanni
Published: May 2019

The aim of this work is to present a new georeferenced geological map of an area in the Ligurian Western Alps (Lavagnina Lakes area) that includes both a unique geodiversity and great biodiversity, a peculiar geological heritage, and cultural features. The study area is located in the northern part of the Capanne di Marcarolo Regional Natural Park, occurring in the southern Piedmont Region (Alessandria, NW Italy) and close to the suburbs of Genoa. This area has been studied by multi-disciplinary scientific researchers who, so far, have focused their attention on the occurrence of alkaline springs and investigation of different endemic floral species. Moreover, in the past, the Lavagnina Lakes area has been exploited due to the presence of gold mineralization, and several mining records are still visible. We performed detailed geological mapping at a 1:10,000 scale, and collected data that were later integrated into a digital GIS map. The database associated with the map contains information that may be interesting from different points of view: (i) scientific research; (ii) outreach and dissemination activities; and (iii) geotourism (i.e., trail networks and panoramic viewpoints). The area represents a section of the Jurassic Piedmont Ligurian oceanic lithosphere, showing several geologic processes on different scales, such as the serpentinization process and intense and widespread carbonation of ultramafic rocks; the area is, moreover, characterized by fault systems showing paleoseismic structures. Beyond scientific research activities (i.e., geology, geoarchaeology, and mining archaeology), the area can also be promoted for geotourism, outreach and dissemination activities, field trips for schools, and gold panning activities. Hence, our new digital map and our 3D model could be a useful tool to illustrate the main characteristics of the area, leading a non-expert public to explore different geological features in a relatively “small” area. In this way, our map could help to improve geotourism, be used as a tool for educational activities, and, finally, could also help the Capanne di Marcarolo Regional Natural Park to be recognized as a geopark.
Path Loss Determination Using Linear and Cubic Regression Inside a Classic Tomato Greenhouse
Authors: Cama-Pinto Dora , Damas Miguel , Holgado-Terriza Juan Antonio , Gómez-Mula Francisco , Cama-Pinto Alejandro
Published: May 2019

The production of tomatoes in greenhouses, in addition to its relevance in nutrition and health, is an activity of the agroindustry with high economic importance in Spain, the first exporter in Europe of this vegetable. The technological updating with precision agriculture, implemented in order to ensure adequate production, leads to a deployment planning of wireless sensors with limited coverage by the attenuation of radio waves in the presence of vegetation. The well-known propagation models FSPL (Free-Space Path Loss), two-ray, COST235, Weissberger, ITU-R (International Telecommunications Union—Radiocommunication Sector), FITU-R (Fitted ITU-R), offer values with an error percentage higher than 30% in the 2.4 GHz band in relation to those measured in field tests. As a substantial improvement, we have developed optimized propagation models, with an error estimate of less than 9% in the worst-case scenario for the later benefit of farmers, consumers and the economic chain in the production of tomatoes.
Welding Fume Exposure and Epigenetic Alterations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Leso Veruscka , Vetrani Ilaria , Della Volpe Ilaria , Nocera Caterina , Iavicoli Ivo
Published: May 2019

Epigenetics are heritable changes in gene expression not coded in the DNA sequence, which stand at the interface between the genome, environmental exposure and development. From an occupational health perspective, epigenetic variants may link workplace exposures and health effects. Therefore, this review aimed to overview possible epigenetic effects induced by welding fumes on exposed workers and health implications. A systematic search was performed on Pubmed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Knowledge databases. DNA methylation changes have been reported in genes responsible for the cardiac autonomic function and coagulation, i.e., LINE-1, GPR133 and F2RL3, in mitochondrial-DNA-sequences involved in the regulation of energy-generation/redox-signaling, as well as in inflammatory activated genes, i.e., iNOS. However, the limited number of retrieved articles, their cross-sectional nature, the lack of a suitable qualitative-quantitative exposure assessment, and the heterogeneity of biological-outcomes investigated, prevent the extrapolation of a definite causal relationship between welding fumes and epigenetic phenomena. Future studies should clarify the function of such epigenetic alterations as possible markers of occupational exposure and early effect, dose-response relationships, and underlying molecular mechanisms. Overall, this may be helpful to guide suitable risk assessment and management strategies to protect the health of workers exposed to welding fumes.
Maternal Body Mass Index and Gestational Weight Gain and Their Association with Pregnancy Complications and Perinatal Conditions
Authors: Simko Martin , Totka Adrian , Vondrova Diana , Samohyl Martin , Jurkovicova Jana , Trnka Michal , Cibulkova Anna , Stofko Juraj , Argalasova Lubica
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of selected pregnancy pathologies statistically depending on overweight/obesity and excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy on women who gave birth in the years 2013–2015 at the Second Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at the University Hospital in Bratislava, Slovakia. In a retrospective study, we analyzed data gathered from the sample, which consisted of 7122 women. Our results suggest a statistically significant, higher risk for the groups of women with overweight and obesity and gestational hypertension (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 15.3; 95% CI 9.0−25.8 for obesity), preeclampsia (AOR = 3.4; 95% CI 1.9−6.0 for overweight and AOR = 13.2; 95% CI 7.7−22.5 for obesity), and gestational diabetes mellitus (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI 1.2−2.9 for overweight and AOR = 2.4; 95% CI 1.4−4.0 for obesity). A higher incidence of pregnancies terminated by cesarean section was observed in the group of obese women. Gestational weight gain above IOM (Institute of Medicine) recommendations was associated with a higher risk of pregnancy terminated by C-section (AOR = 1.2; 95% CI 1.0−1.3), gestational hypertension (AOR = 1.7; 95% CI 1.0−2.7), and infant macrosomia (AOR = 1.7; 95% CI 1.3−2.1). Overweight and obesity during pregnancy significantly contribute to the development of pregnancy pathologies and increased incidence of cesarean section. Systematic efforts to reduce weight before pregnancy through prepregnancy dietary counseling, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle should be the primary goal.
Chronic Respiratory Disease and Health-Related Quality of Life of African American Older Adults in an Economically Disadvantaged Area of Los Angeles
Authors: Bazargan Mohsen , Smith James L. , Robinson Paul , Uyanne John , Abdulrahoof Ruqayyah , Chuku Chika , Assari Shervin
Published: May 2019

Background. Most of the attention of policy makers, program planners, clinicians, and researchers in the area of physical health disparities among African American older adults has been traditionally focused on cardiometabolic disease and cancer. Among a long list of chronic medical conditions, chronic respiratory conditions (CRCs), such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, have received less attention. Purpose. This study investigated whether CRCs contribute to physical and mental health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of African American older adults who live in economically disadvantaged urban areas, and whether these effects are due to demographic factors, socioeconomic status (SES), health behaviors, and comorbid medical and mental conditions. Methods. This community-based study recruited 617 African American older adults (age ≥ 65 years) from Service Planning Areas (SPA) 6, an economically disadvantaged area in South Los Angeles. Structured face-to-face interviews were used to collect data on demographic factors (age and gender), SES (educational attainment and financial difficulty), living arrangements, marital status, health behaviors (cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking), health (CRC, number of comorbid medical conditions, depressive symptoms, and pain intensity), and physical and mental HRQoL (Physical and Mental Component Summary Scores; PCS and MCS; SF-12). Linear regressions were used to analyze the data. Results. The presence of CRCs was associated with lower PCS and MCS in bivariate analysis. The association between CRCs and PCS remained significant above and beyond all confounders. However, the association between CRCs and MCS disappeared after controlling for confounders. Conclusion. For African American older adults living in economically disadvantaged urban areas, CRCs contribute to poor physical HRQoL. Evaluation and treatment of CRCs in African American older adults may be a strategy for reduction of disparities in HRQoL in this population. As smoking is the major modifiable risk factor for CRCs, there is a need to increase accessibility of smoking cessation programs in economically disadvantaged urban areas. More research is needed on the types, management, and prognosis of CRCs such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema in African American older adults who reside in low-income and resource limited urban areas.
Determination of the Residue Behavior and Risk Assessment of Chlorfluazuron in Chinese Cabbage, Kale, Lettuce and Cauliflower by UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Sun Mingna , Tong Zhou , Dong Xu , Chu Yue , Wang Mei , Gao Tongchun , Duan Jinsheng
Published: May 2019

Chlorfluazuron is used as a highly effective insect growth regulator to control a variety of crop pests. However, residues of this pesticide have been shown to be harmful to human health. To evaluate the residual dissipation pattern and risk for dietary intake of chlorfluazuron in various vegetables, a solid phase extraction-ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was established to analyze chlorfluazuron residues in Chinese cabbage, Chinese kale, Chinese lettuce, and cauliflower. The sample was extracted with acetonitrile and purified using an SPE amino column. The average recovery of the target sample in the analyzed four vegetables was between 75.0% and 104.1%, and the relative standard deviation was between 2.5% and 9.6%. The precision and accuracy of the analysis met the requirements of residue analysis standards. Dissipation kinetic testing of chlorfluazuron in different vegetables showed a half-life of 2.4–12.6 days, with a rapid dissipation rate. The estimated daily intake of the chlorfluazuron was 0.753–1.661 μg/(kg bw·d), and the risk quotient was 0.15–0.35. It showed that chlorfluazuron had a low risk of chronic dietary intake from vegetables in different populations in China. The results of this study has described the degradation rate of chlorfluazuron in four vegetables, evaluated the risk of dietary exposure to Chinese residents. Therefore, it provides supporting data and empirical basis for guiding the reasonable use of chlorfluazuron in vegetable production and in evaluating its dietary intake risk in vegetables.
Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression in the Normal and Malignant Human Prostate: A Rapid Response Which Promotes Therapeutic Resistance
Authors: Frame Fiona M. , Maitland Norman J.
Published: May 2019

A successful prostate cancer must be capable of changing its phenotype in response to a variety of microenvironmental influences, such as adaptation to treatment or successful proliferation at a particular metastatic site. New cell phenotypes emerge by selection from the large, genotypically heterogeneous pool of candidate cells present within any tumor mass, including a distinct stem cell-like population. In such a multicellular model of human prostate cancer, flexible responses are primarily governed not only by de novo mutations but appear to be dominated by a combination of epigenetic controls, whose application results in treatment resistance and tumor relapse. Detailed studies of these individual cell populations have resulted in an epigenetic model for epithelial cell differentiation, which is also instructive in explaining the reported high and inevitable relapse rates of human prostate cancers to a multitude of treatment types.
Protective Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) and Novel Cape Analogue as Inducers of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Streptozotocin-Induced Type 1 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Sorrenti Valeria , Raffaele Marco , Vanella Luca , Acquaviva Rosaria , Salerno Loredana , Pittalà Valeria , Intagliata Sebastiano , Di Giacomo Claudia
Published: May 2019

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease resulting in the destruction of insulin producing β-cells of the pancreas, with consequent insulin deficiency and excessive glucose production. Hyperglycemia results in increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen species (RNS) with consequent oxidative/nitrosative stress and tissue damage. Oxidative damage of the pancreatic tissue may contribute to endothelial dysfunction associated with diabetes. The aim of the present study was to investigate if the potentially protective effects of phenethyl ester of caffeic acid (CAPE), a natural phenolic compound occurring in a variety of plants and derived from honeybee hive propolis, and of a novel CAPE analogue, as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inducers, could reduce pancreatic oxidative damage induced by excessive amount of glucose, affecting the nitric oxide synthase/dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (NOS/DDAH) pathway in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats. Our data demonstrated that inducible nitric oxide synthase/gamma-Glutamyl-cysteine ligase (iNOS/GGCL) and DDAH dysregulation may play a key role in high glucose mediated oxidative stress, whereas HO-1 inducers such as CAPE or its more potent derivatives may be useful in diabetes and other stress-induced pathological conditions.
Cloning, Purification, and Characterization of a β-Carbonic Anhydrase from Malassezia restricta, an Opportunistic Pathogen Involved in Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis
Authors: Del Prete Sonia , Vullo Daniela , Ghobril Cynthia , Hitce Julien , Clavaud Cécile , Marat Xavier , Capasso Clemente , Supuran Claudiu T.
Published: May 2019

The cloning, purification, and initial characterization of the β-carbonic anhydrase (CA, EC 4.2.1.1) from the genome of the opportunistic pathogen Malassezia restricta (MreCA), which a fungus involved in dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (SD), is reported. MreCA is a protein consisting of 230 amino acid residues and shows high catalytic activity for the hydration of CO2 into bicarbonate and protons, with the following kinetic parameters: kcat of 1.06 × 106 s−1 and kcat/KM of 1.07 × 108 M−1 s−1. It is also sensitive to inhibition by the sulfonamide acetazolamide (KI of 50.7 nM). Phylogenetically, MreCA and other CAs from various Malassezia species seem to be on a different branch, distinct from that of other β-CAs found in fungi, such as Candida spp., Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Sordaria macrospora, with only Cryptococcus neoformans and Ustilago maydis enzymes clustering near MreCA. The further characterization of this enzyme and the identification of inhibitors that may interfere with its life cycle might constitute new strategies for fighting dandruff and SD.
Overexpression of a Multiprotein Bridging Factor 1 Gene DgMBF1 Improves the Salinity Tolerance of Chrysanthemum
Authors: Zhao Qian , He Ling , Wang Bei , Liu Qinglin , Pan Yuanzhi , Zhang Fan , Jiang Beibei , Zhang Lei
Published: May 2019

Soil salinity represents a major constraint in the growth of chrysanthemum. Therefore, improving salinity tolerance of chrysanthemum has become an important research direction in tolerance breeding. Multiprotein bridging factor 1 (MBF1) is an evolutionarily highly conserved transcriptional co-activator in archaea and eukaryotes and has been reported to play important roles to respond to abiotic stresses. Here, a MBF1 gene induced by salt stress was isolated and functionally characterized from Dendranthema grandiflorum and name as DgMBF1. Overexpression of DgMBF1 in chrysanthemum increased the tolerance of plants to high salt stress compared to wild type (WT). It also showed fewer accumulations of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anion (O2−), higher activities of antioxidant enzymes, more content of proline and soluble sugar (SS) and more favorable K+/Na+ ratio than those of WT under salt stress. In addition, the expression level of genes related to antioxidant biosynthesis, proline biosynthesis, glyco-metabolism and K+/Na+ homeostasis was statistically significant higher in the DgMBF1-overexpressed lines than that in WT. These results demonstrated that DgMBF1 is a positive regulator in response to salt stress and could serve as a new candidate gene for salt-tolerant plant breeding.
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide MOTS-c Increases Adipose Thermogenic Activation to Promote Cold Adaptation
Authors: Lu Huanyu , Tang Shan , Xue Chong , Liu Ying , Wang Jiye , Zhang Wenbin , Luo Wenjing , Chen Jingyuan
Published: May 2019

Cold exposure stress causes hypothermia, cognitive impairment, liver injury, and cardiovascular diseases, thereby increasing morbidity and mortality. Paradoxically, cold acclimation is believed to confer metabolic improvement to allow individuals to adapt to cold, harsh conditions and to protect them from cold stress-induced diseases. However, the therapeutic strategy to enhance cold acclimation remains less studied. Here, we demonstrate that the mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c efficiently promotes cold adaptation. Following cold exposure, the improvement of adipose non-shivering thermogenesis facilitated cold adaptation. MOTS-c, a newly identified peptide, is secreted by mitochondria. In this study, we observed that the level of MOTS-c in serum decreased after cold stress. MOTS-c treatment enhanced cold tolerance and reduced lipid trafficking to the liver. In addition, MOTS-c dramatically upregulated brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenic gene expression and increased white fat “browning”. This effect might have been mediated by MOTS-c-activated phosphorylation of the ERK signaling pathway. The inhibition of ERK signaling disturbed the up-regulatory effect of MOTS-c on thermogenesis. In summary, our results indicate that MOTS-c treatment is a potential therapeutic strategy for defending against cold stress by increasing the adipose thermogenesis via the ERK pathway.
Giant Submarine Landslide in the South China Sea: Evidence, Causes, and Implications
Authors: Zhu Chaoqi , Cheng Sheng , Li Qingping , Shan Hongxian , Lu Jing’an , Shen Zhicong , Liu Xiaolei , Jia Yonggang
Published: May 2019

Submarine landslides can be tremendous in scale. They are one of the most important processes for global sediment fluxes and tsunami generation. However, studies of prodigious submarine landslides remain insufficient. In this review paper, we compile, summarize, and reanalyze the results of previous studies. Based on this reanalysis, we discover the giant Baiyun–Liwan submarine slide in the Pearl River Mouth Basin, South China Sea. We describe three concurrent pieces of evidence from ~23 Ma to 24 Ma, the Oligocene–Miocene boundary, for this landslide: the shoreward shift of the shelf break in the Baiyun Sag, the slump deposition to the southeast, and the abrupt decrease in the accumulation rate on the lower continental slope. This landslide extends for over 250 km, and the total affected area of the slide is up to ~35,000–40,000 km2. The scale of the landslide is similar to that of the Storegga slide, which has long been considered to be the largest landslide on earth. We suggest that strike–slip movement along the Red River Fault and ridge jump of the South China Sea caused the coeval Baiyun–Liwan submarine slide. The identification of the giant landslide will promote the understanding of not only its associated geohazards but also the steep rise of the Himalayan orogeny and marine engineering. More attention needs to be paid to areas with repeated submarine landslides and offshore installations.
Effect of CNT Contents on the Microstructure and Properties of CNT/TiMg Composites
Authors: Yuan Xiaomin , Zhu Haonan , Ji Huiling , Zhang Yiwei
Published: May 2019

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), dispersed in absolute ethanol, were evenly mixed into Ti/MgH2 powders by wet milling. Then, we applied the vacuum hot-pressed sinteringmethod to the CNTs/TiMg composite materials. An optical microscope (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) were used for the microstructure observation and phase analysis of samples. The mechanical properties were measured via the micro-vickers hardness. The results show that the main phases in the composites were Ti, Mg and C. Meanwhile, a small amount of Ti-Mg solid solution phase was also found. The cross-section morphology of the composites shows that the melted magnesium fills the grain interface during extrusion and that the composites have a better compactness.The microstructures of the composites have been greatly refined as the CNT contents increased. The structure of the composites was further refined when 0.5 wt.% CNTs were added. The fracture surface is obviously a ductile fracture. The microhardness increases obviously with the CNT content increasing. When the content of the CNTs is 1.0 wt.%, the microhardness of the composites reaches 232 HV, which is 24% higher than that of the matrix.
Thermochemical Route for Extraction and Recycling of Critical, Strategic and High Value Elements from By-Products and End-of-Life Materials, Part I: Treatment of a Copper By-Product in Air Atmosphere
Authors: Kanari Ndue , Allain Eric , Shallari Seit , Diot Frederic , Diliberto Sebastien , Patisson Fabrice , Yvon Jacques
Published: May 2019

Development of our modern society requests a number of critical and strategic elements (platinum group metals, In, Ga, Ge…) and high value added elements (Au, Ag, Se, Te, Ni…) which are often concentrated in by-products during the extraction of base metals (Cu, Pb, Zn…). Further, recycling of end-of-life materials employed in high technology, renewable energy and transport by conventional extractive processes also leads to the concentration of such chemical elements and their compounds in metallurgical by-products and/or co-products. One of these materials, copper anode slime (CAS), derived from a copper electrolytic refining factory, was used for this study. The sample was subjected to isothermal treatment from 225 to 770 °C under air atmosphere and the reaction products were systematically analyzed by scanning electron microscopy through energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to investigate the thermal behavior of the treated sample. The main components of the anode slime (CuAgSe, Cu2-xSeyS1-y, Ag3AuSe2) react with oxygen, producing mostly copper and selenium oxides as well as Ag-Au alloys as final products at temperatures higher than 500 °C. Selenium dioxide (SeO2) is volatilized and recovered in pure state by cooling the gaseous phase, whilst copper(II) oxide, silver, gold and tellurium remain in the treatment residue.
Optimization of the Loading of an Environmentally Friendly Compatibilizer Derived from Linseed Oil in Poly(Lactic Acid)/Diatomaceous Earth Composites
Authors: Gonzalez Lucia , Agüero Angel , Quiles-Carrillo Luis , Lascano Diego , Montanes Nestor
Published: May 2019

Maleinized linseed oil (MLO) has been successfully used as biobased compatibilizer in polyester blends. Its efficiency as compatibilizer in polymer composites with organic and inorganic fillers, compared to other traditional fillers, has also been proved. The goal of this work is to optimize the amount of MLO on poly(lactic acid)/diatomaceous earth (PLA/DE) composites to open new potential to these materials in the active packaging industry without compromising the environmental efficiency of these composites. The amount of DE remains constant at 10 wt% and MLO varies from 1 to 15 phr (weight parts of MLO per 100 g of PLA/DE composite). The effect of MLO on mechanical, thermal, thermomechanical and morphological properties is described in this work. The obtained results show a clear embrittlement of the uncompatibilized PLA/DE composites, which is progressively reduced by the addition of MLO. MLO shows good miscibility at low concentrations (lower than 5 phr) while above 5 phr, a clear phase separation phenomenon can be detected, with the formation of rounded microvoids and shapes which have a positive effect on impact strength.
Counterintuitive Test Problems for Distance-Based Similarity Measures Between Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Tang Hui-Chin , Yang Shen-Tai
Published: May 2019

This paper analyzes the counterintuitive behaviors of adopted twelve distance-based similarity measures between intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Among these distance-based similarity measures, the largest number of components of the distance in the similarity measure is four. We propose six general counterintuitive test problems to analyze their counterintuitive behaviors. The results indicate that all the distance-based similarity measures have some counterintuitive test problems. Furthermore, for the largest number of components of the distance-based similarity measure, four types of counterintuitive examples exist. Therefore, the counterintuitive behaviors are inevitable for the distance-based similarity measures between intuitionistic fuzzy sets.
Algorithms and Data Structures for Sparse Polynomial Arithmetic
Authors: Asadi Mohammadali , Brandt Alexander , Moir Robert H. C. , Moreno Maza Marc
Published: May 2019

We provide a comprehensive presentation of algorithms, data structures, and implementation techniques for high-performance sparse multivariate polynomial arithmetic over the integers and rational numbers as implemented in the freely available Basic Polynomial Algebra Subprograms (BPAS) library. We report on an algorithm for sparse pseudo-division, based on the algorithms for division with remainder, multiplication, and addition, which are also examined herein. The pseudo-division and division with remainder operations are extended to multi-divisor pseudo-division and normal form algorithms, respectively, where the divisor set is assumed to form a triangular set. Our operations make use of two data structures for sparse distributed polynomials and sparse recursively viewed polynomials, with a keen focus on locality and memory usage for optimized performance on modern memory hierarchies. Experimentation shows that these new implementations compare favorably against competing implementations, performing between a factor of 3 better (for multiplication over the integers) to more than 4 orders of magnitude better (for pseudo-division with respect to a triangular set).
Three New Isoflavonoid Glycosides from the Mangrove-Derived Actinomycete Micromonospora aurantiaca 110B
Authors: Wang Rui-Jun , Zhang Shao-Yong , Ye Yang-Hui , Yu Zhen , Qi Huan , Zhang Hui , Xue Zheng-Lian , Wang Ji-Dong , Wu Min
Published: May 2019

The mangrove ecosystem is a rich resource for the discovery of actinomycetes with potential applications in pharmaceutical science. Besides the genus Streptomyces, Micromonospora is also a source of new bioactive agents. We screened Micromonospora from the rhizosphere soil of mangrove plants in Fujian province, China, and 51 strains were obtained. Among them, the extracts of 12 isolates inhibited the growth of human lung carcinoma A549 cells. Strain 110B exhibited better cytotoxic activity, and its bioactive constituents were investigated. Consequently, three new isoflavonoid glycosides, daidzein-4′-(2-deoxy-α-l-fucopyranoside) (1), daidzein-7-(2-deoxy-α-l-fucopyranoside) (2), and daidzein-4′,7-di-(2-deoxy-α-l-fucopyranoside) (3) were isolated from the fermentation broth of strain 110B. The structures of the new compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESIMS). The result of medium-changing experiments implicated that these new compounds were microbial biotransformation products of strain M. aurantiaca 110B. The three compounds displayed moderate cytotoxic activity to the human lung carcinoma cell line A549, hepatocellular liver carcinoma cell line HepG2, and the human colon tumor cell line HCT116, whereas none of them showed antifungal or antibacterial activities.
A New Tyrosinase Inhibitor from the Red Alga Symphyocladia latiuscula (Harvey) Yamada (Rhodomelaceae)
Authors: Paudel Pradeep , Wagle Aditi , Seong Su Hui , Park Hye Jin , Jung Hyun Ah , Choi Jae Sue
Published: May 2019

A marine red alga, Symphyocladia latiuscula (Harvey) Yamada (Rhodomelaceae), is a rich source of bromophenols with a wide array of biological activities. This study investigates the anti-tyrosinase activity of the alga. Moderate activity was demonstrated by the methanol extract of S. latiuscula, and subsequent column chromatography identified three bromophenols: 2,3,6-tribromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzyl methyl alcohol (1), 2,3,6-tribromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzyl methyl ether (2), and bis-(2,3,6-tribromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzyl methyl ether) (3). Bromophenols 1 and 3 exhibited potent competitive tyrosinase inhibitory activity against l-tyrosine substrates, with IC50 values of 10.78 ± 0.19 and 2.92 ± 0.04 μM, respectively. Against substrate l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA), compounds 1 and 3 demonstrated moderate activity, while 2 showed no observable effect. The experimental data were verified by a molecular docking study that found catalytic hydrogen and halogen interactions were responsible for the activity. In addition, compounds 1 and 3 exhibited dose-dependent inhibitory effects in melanin and intracellular tyrosinase levels in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced B16F10 melanoma cells. Compounds 3 and 1 were the most effective tyrosinase inhibitors. In addition, increasing the bromine group number increased the mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory activity.
Spatial and Temporal Controls on the Distribution of Indium in Xenothermal Vein-Deposits: The Huari Huari District, Potosí, Bolivia
Authors: Torró Lisard , Melgarejo Joan , Gemmrich Laura , Mollinedo Diva , Cazorla Malena , Martínez Álvaro , Pujol-Solà Núria , Farré-de-Pablo Júlia , Camprubí Antoni , Artiaga David , Torres Belén , Alfonso Pura , Arce Osvaldo
Published: May 2019

The Huari Huari deposit, Potosí Department in SW Bolivia, hosts polymetallic stratiform and vein mineralization of Miocene age with significant concentrations of the critical metal indium (In). Vein mineralization records document early crystallization of quartz and cassiterite followed by prominent associations of sulfides and sulfosalts. The earliest sulfide was arsenopyrite, followed by pyrrhotite, and progressively giving way to pyrite as the main iron sulfide, whereas Cu–Ag–Pb sulfosalts constitute late hypogene associations. Sphalerite is the chief ore mineral, and its crystallization is extended during most of the mineralization lifespan as evidenced by its initial cocrystallization with pyrrhotine, then with pyrite, and finally with Ag–Pb sulfosalts. The composition of sphalerite varies from early to late generations with a continuous decrease in FeS that attests to a decrease in temperature, which is constrained to vary from ~450 to <200 °C, and/or an increase in f(S2), both congruent with the described paragenetic sequence. Indium concentrated mostly in the structure of Fe-rich sphalerite (up to 3.49 wt. %) and stannite (up to 2.64 wt. %) as limited solid solutions with roquesite in the (Zn,Fe)S–Cu2FeSnS4–CuInS2 pseudoternary system. In sphalerite, In shows a strong positive correlation with Cu at Cu/In = 1, suggesting its incorporation via a (Cu+ + In3+) ↔ 2Zn2+ coupled substitution, and it does not correlate with Fe. In stannite, In shows a moderate, negative correlation with Cu and Sn, and an In3+ ↔ (Cu+ + ½ Sn4+) coupled substitution is suggested. Coexisting sphalerite and stannite yielded the highest In concentrations and crystallized at temperatures between 350 and 250 °C. Copper activity probably played a major role in the accumulation of In in the structure of sphalerite since In-bearing sphalerite coexisted with the deposition of stannite, shows high concentrations of Cu (up to 0.13 atoms per formula unit (a.p.f.u.)) in its structure, and hosts exsolutions of stannite and chalcopyrite. Distribution on the district scale of In suggests an input of hydrothermal fluids richer in Cu in the central position of the mineralizing system, represented by the Antón Bravo vein.
Daylight Bactericidal Titania Textiles: A Contribution to Nosocomial Infections Control
Authors: Matos Joana C. , Oliveira Cláudia , Gonçalves M. Clara
Published: May 2019

Daylight bactericidal cotton (100% cotton) textiles are presented and proposed for future hospital use. Amorphous titania (a-TiO2) and amorphous titania/chitosan complexes (a-TiO2//CS) were the selected bactericidal agents. Nanoparticles (NPs) and films were the two paths designed. Cotton textiles were impregnated with a-TiO2-based NPs or coated with a-TiO2 films. Industrial impregnation/coating will be implemented during the textile finishing treatments. A novel (room temperature and base-catalyzed), green (hydrothermal water as a catalyst), time-saving, and easy scale-up sol–gel process was established to produce the a-TiO2-based NPs. Amorphous-TiO2 films were produced by a dip-in (acid catalyzed) sol–gel solution. The daylight bactericidal performance (without the need of an external ultraviolet light source) of a-TiO2 NPs, films, and impregnated/coated textiles was proven according to AATCC 100 and ASTM E2149, using Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC®6538TM) as the bacterial indicator strain. A bacterial reduction of 99.97% was achieved for the a-TiO2 films and of 99.97% for the a-TiO2//CS NPs. Regarding the impregnated textiles, a bacterial reduction of 91.66% was achieved with a-TiO2//CS NPs, and 99.97% for cotton textiles coated with an a-TiO2 film.
Current Mechanistic and Pharmacodynamic Understanding of Melanocortin-4 Receptor Activation
Authors: Sharma Shubh , Garfield Alastair S. , Shah Bhavik , Kleyn Patrick , Ichetovkin Ilia , Moeller Ida Hatoum , Mowrey William R. , Van der Ploeg Lex H.T.
Published: May 2019

In this work we summarize our understanding of melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) pathway activation, aiming to define a safe and effective therapeutic targeting strategy for the MC4R. Delineation of cellular MC4R pathways has provided evidence for distinct MC4R signaling events characterized by unique receptor activation kinetics. While these studies remain narrow in scope, and have largely been explored with peptidic agonists, the results provide a possible correlation between distinct ligand groups and differential MC4R activation kinetics. In addition, when a set of small-molecule and peptide MC4R agonists are compared, evidence of biased signaling has been reported. The results of such mechanistic studies are discussed.