bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Random Subspace Learning: A Spatial-Temporal Modeling Approach for Air Quality Prediction
Authors: Sun Xiaotong , Xu Wei
Published: September 2019

Decrease in air quality is one of the most crucial threats to human health. There is an imperative and necessary need for more accurate air quality prediction. To meet this need, we propose a novel long short-term memory-based deep random subspace learning (LSTM-DRSL) framework for air quality forecasting. Specifically, we incorporate real-time pollutant emission data into the model input. We also design a spatial-temporal analysis approach to make good use of these data. The prediction model is developed by combining random subspace learning with a deep learning algorithm in order to improve the prediction accuracy. Empirical analyses based on multiple datasets over China from January 2015 to September 2017 are performed to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed framework for hourly pollutant concentration prediction at an urban-agglomeration scale. The empirical results indicate that our framework is a viable method for air quality prediction. With consideration of the regional scale, the LSTM-DRSL framework performs better at a relatively large regional scale (around 200–300 km). In addition, the quality of predictions is higher in industrial areas. From a temporal point of view, the LSTM-DRSL framework is more suitable for hourly predictions.
Porphyrinoid–Fullerene Hybrids as Candidates in Artificial Photosynthetic Schemes
Authors: Nikolaou Vasilis , Charisiadis Asterios , Stangel Christina , Charalambidis Georgios , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: September 2019

Natural photosynthesis inspired the scientific community to design and synthesize molecular assemblies that possess advanced light-harvesting and electron-transfer features. In this review, we present the preparation and the photophysical investigation of novel porphyrin–fullerene hybrids acting as artificial photosynthetic systems. Porphyrinoids stand as chlorophyll analogues and have emerged as suitable photosensitizers in supramolecular electron donor–acceptor hybrids. Fullerenes (C60) are versatile electron acceptors with small reorganization energy and low reduction potentials. The novel derivatives presented herein mimic the fundamental features of the photosynthetic reaction center, namely, light harvesting, charge separation, and charge transport. To this end, a comprehensive analysis on these key processes that occur in various porphyrin–fullerene entities is illustrated in this work.
Classifying Induced Superconductivity in Atomically Thin Dirac-Cone Materials
Authors: Talantsev Evgueni F.
Published: September 2019

Recently, Kayyalha et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., 2019, 122, 047003) reported on the anomalous enhancement of the self-field critical currents (Ic(sf,T)) at low temperatures in Nb/BiSbTeSe2-nanoribbon/Nb Josephson junctions. The enhancement was attributed to the low-energy Andreev-bound states arising from the winding of the electronic wave function around the circumference of the topological insulator BiSbTeSe2 nanoribbon. It should be noted that identical enhancement in Ic(sf,T) and in the upper critical field (Bc2(T)) in approximately the same reduced temperatures, were reported by several research groups in atomically thin junctions based on a variety of Dirac-cone materials (DCM) earlier. The analysis shows that in all these S/DCM/S systems, the enhancement is due to a new superconducting band opening. Taking into account that several intrinsic superconductors also exhibit the effect of new superconducting band(s) opening when sample thickness becomes thinner than the out-of-plane coherence length (ξc(0)), we reaffirm our previous proposal that there is a new phenomenon of additional superconducting band(s) opening in atomically thin films.
Computer Model for a Wind–Diesel Hybrid System with Compressed Air Energy Storage
Authors: Martinez Nicolas , Benchaabane Youssef , Silva Rosa Elvira , Ilinca Adrian , Ibrahim Hussein , Chandra Ambrish , Rousse Daniel R.
Published: September 2019

A hybrid system combines two or more energy sources as an integrated unit to generate electricity. The nature of the sources associated varies between renewable and/or non-renewable energies. Such systems are becoming popular as stand-alone power systems to provide electricity, especially in off grid remote areas where diesel generators act as primary energy source. Wind–diesel systems are among the preferred solutions for new installations, as well as the upgrade of existing ones. However, efforts to address technical challenges towards energy transformation for sustainable development are multiple. The use of energy storage systems is a solution to reduce energy costs and environmental impacts. Indeed, efficient and distributed storage not only allows the electricity grid greater flexibility in the face of demand variations and greater robustness thanks to the decentralization of energy sources, it also offers a solution to increase the use of intermittent renewables in the energy mix. Among different technologies for electrical energy storage, compressed air energy storage is proven to achieve high wind energy penetration and optimal operation of diesel generators. This paper presents a computer model for performance evaluation of a wind–diesel hybrid system with compressed air energy storage. The model has been validated by comparing the results of a wind–diesel case study against those obtained using HOMER software (National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO, United States). Different operation modes of the hybrid system are then explored. The impact of hybridization on time and frequency of operation for each power source, fuel consumption and energy dissipation has been determined. Recommendations are made on the choice of key parameters for system optimization.
Study on the Limit Penetration Level Evaluation Method of Distributed Photovoltaics Based on Large Sample Generation-Load Data
Authors: Li Jinlin , Jing Tianjun , Wang Jiangbo , Wang Kun , Wang Lei
Published: September 2019

The three-step rule of distributed photovoltaic (DPVs) connecting to a distribution network in the planning of practical photovoltaic projects is modeled in this paper. On this basis, a method based on large sample historical generation-load data is proposed to comprehensively evaluate the DPV limit penetration level of the low voltage–medium voltage (LV-MV) distribution network, which is the premise of DPV connection planning. Considering the fluctuations of generation-load data in time and space, the DPV limit penetration level of the LV network is evaluated based on kernel density estimation. On this basis, considering the uncertainties of DPVs connecting node schemes and connection capacity, the limit penetration level of DPVs continuously connecting to the MV network is evaluated based on the dichotomy method and stochastic simulation. Finally, the feasibility of evaluating the DPV limit penetration level by the proposed method is verified based on an example of a real distribution network, which is of great importance for the planning of a distribution network with high DPV permeability to continuously connect to DPVs.
A Hybrid Recommender System to Improve Circular Economy in Industrial Symbiotic Networks
Authors: Gatzioura Anna , Sànchez-Marrè Miquel , Gibert Karina
Published: September 2019

Recently, the need of improved resource trading has arisen due to resource limitations and energy optimization problems. Various platforms supporting resource exchange and waste reuse in industrial symbiotic networks are being developed. However, the actors participating in these networks still mainly act based on predefined patterns, without taking the possible alternatives into account, usually due to the difficulty of properly evaluating them. Therefore, incorporating intelligence into the platforms that these networks use, supporting the involved actors to automatically find resources able to cover their needs, is still of high importance both for the companies and the whole ecosystem. In this work, we present a hybrid recommender system to support users in properly identifying the symbiotic relationships that might provide them an improved performance. This recommender combines a graph-based model for resource similarities, while it follows the basic case-based reasoning processes to generate resource recommendations. Several criteria, apart from resource similarity, are taken into account to generate, each time, the list of the most suitable solutions. As highlighted through a use case scenario, the proposed system could play a key role in the emerging industrial symbiotic platforms, as the majority of them still do not incorporate automatic decision support mechanisms.
Wind Speed and Power Ultra Short-Term Robust Forecasting Based on Takagi–Sugeno Fuzzy Model
Authors: Liu Fang , Li Ranran , Dreglea Aliona
Published: September 2019

Accurate wind power and wind speed forecasting remains a critical challenge in wind power systems management. This paper proposes an ultra short-time forecasting method based on the Takagi–Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy model for wind power and wind speed. The model does not rely on a large amount of historical data and can obtain accurate forecasting results though efficient linearization. The proposed method employs meteorological measurements as input. Next, the antecedent and the consequent parameters of the forecasting model are identified by the fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm and the recursive least squares method. From these components, the T–S fuzzy model is obtained. Wind farms located in China (Shanxi Province) and in Ireland (County Kerry) are considered as cases with which to validate the proposed forecasting method. The forecasting results are compared with results from the contemporary machine learning-based models including support vector machine (SVM), the combined model of SVM and empirical mode decomposition, and back propagation neural network methods. The results show that the proposed T–S fuzzy model can effectively improve the precision of the short-term wind power forecasting.
Fresh Pasta Manufactured with Fermented Whole Wheat Semolina: Physicochemical, Sensorial, and Nutritional Properties
Authors: Fois Simonetta , Campus Marco , Piu Piero Pasqualino , Siliani Silvia , Sanna Manuela , Roggio Tonina , Catzeddu Pasquale
Published: September 2019

Fresh pasta (SP) was prepared by mixing semolina with liquid sourdough, whole wheat semolina based, and the effects of sourdough inclusion were evaluated against a control sample (CP) prepared using semolina and whole wheat semolina. Physicochemical, nutritional, and sensorial analyses were performed on pasteurized fresh pasta, before and after cooking. The optimum cooking time was not affected by whole wheat sourdough, whereas differences were found in color, firmness, and cooking loss. Changes of in vitro digested starch fractions in SP pasta were affected by a higher cooking loss. Overall, SP samples were characterized by improved nutraceutical features, namely higher content of free essential amino acids and phenolic compounds, lower phytic acid content, and higher antioxidant activity. Sensory analyses (acceptability and check-all-that-apply (CATA) tests) showed significantly higher scores for the SP, and the differences were enhanced when the consumers were informed about the product composition and how it was manufactured. Consumers checked for more positive sensory parameters for the SP than the CP.
Newborn Health Indicators Associated with Maternal Age during First Pregnancy
Authors: Molina-García Leticia , Hidalgo-Ruiz Manuel , Cámara-Jurado Ana María , Fernández-Valero Maria Jose , Delgado-Rodríguez Miguel , Martínez-Galiano Juan Miguel
Published: September 2019

Delaying motherhood is becoming increasingly common, raising questions of the possible influence that maternal age may have on newborn health. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the association between maternal age and different newborn health parameters. An observational study was conducted in Spain on primiparous women and their infants. Data were collected on newborn health variables, breastfeeding, and different clinical practices that are beneficial for child health and development. Crude and adjusted mean differences were calculated along with the standard error of the mean. A total of 373 women and their children participated. In terms of early commencement skin-to-skin contact, the mean age of women that did skin-to-skin contact was 29.95 ± 0.31 years compared to 31.49 ± 0.66 years in those that did not (p = 0.042). In terms of other newborn parameters, such as preterm birth, health problems or complications, or the need for hospital admission, these were more frequent in the oldest group of mothers, but the differences found were not significant (p > 0.05). Hence, indicators of newborn morbidity were not found to be significantly associated with maternal age; however, beneficial practices such as early commencement skin-to-skin contact were found to be significantly associated with maternal age.
Novel Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibitors Suppress P-Glycoprotein Activity and Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer Cells
Authors: Dinić Jelena , Podolski-Renić Ana , Jovanović Mirna , Musso Loana , Tsakovska Ivanka , Pajeva Ilza , Dallavalle Sabrina , Pešić Milica
Published: September 2019

Heat Shock Protein 90 (Hsp90) chaperone interacts with a broad range of client proteins involved in cancerogenesis and cancer progression. However, Hsp90 inhibitors were unsuccessful as anticancer agents due to their high toxicity, lack of selectivity against cancer cells and extrusion by membrane transporters responsible for multidrug resistance (MDR) such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Recognizing the potential of new compounds to inhibit P-gp function and/or expression is essential in the search for effective anticancer drugs. Eleven Hsp90 inhibitors containing an isoxazolonaphtoquinone core were synthesized and evaluated in two MDR models comprised of sensitive and corresponding resistant cancer cells with P-gp overexpression (human non-small cell lung carcinoma and colorectal adenocarcinoma). We investigated the effect of Hsp90 inhibitors on cell growth inhibition, P-gp activity and P-gp expression. Structure–activity relationship analysis was performed in respect to cell growth and P-gp inhibition. Compounds 5, 7, and 9 directly interacted with P-gp and inhibited its ATPase activity. Their potential P-gp binding site was identified by molecular docking studies. In addition, these compounds downregulated P-gp expression in MDR colorectal carcinoma cells, showed good relative selectivity towards cancer cells, while compound 5 reversed resistance to doxorubicin and paclitaxel in concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, compounds 5, 7 and 9 could be promising candidates for treating cancers with P-gp overexpression.
Aberrant DNA Methylation in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Its Clinical Implications
Authors: Yang Xianwen , Wong Molly Pui Man , Ng Ray Kit
Published: September 2019

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease that is characterized by distinct cytogenetic or genetic abnormalities. Recent discoveries in cancer epigenetics demonstrated a critical role of epigenetic dysregulation in AML pathogenesis. Unlike genetic alterations, the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications is therapeutically attractive in cancer therapy. DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression and plays a pivotal role in mammalian development including hematopoiesis. DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and Ten-eleven-translocation (TET) dioxygenases are responsible for the dynamics of DNA methylation. Genetic alterations of DNMTs or TETs disrupt normal hematopoiesis and subsequently result in hematological malignancies. Emerging evidence reveals that the dysregulation of DNA methylation is a key event for AML initiation and progression. Importantly, aberrant DNA methylation is regarded as a hallmark of AML, which is heralded as a powerful epigenetic marker in early diagnosis, prognostic prediction, and therapeutic decision-making. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of DNA methylation in normal hematopoiesis and AML pathogenesis. We also discuss the clinical implications of DNA methylation and the current therapeutic strategies of targeting DNA methylation in AML therapy.
PGE1-Containing Protocols Generate Mature (Leukemia-Derived) Dendritic Cells Directly from Leukemic Whole Blood
Authors: Amberger Daniel Christoph , Doraneh-Gard Fatemeh , Gunsilius Carina , Weinmann Melanie , Möbius Sabine , Kugler Christoph , Rogers Nicole , Böck Corinna , Ködel Uwe , Werner Jan-Ole , Krämer Doris , Eiz-Vesper Britta , Rank Andreas , Schmid Christoph , Schmetzer Helga Maria
Published: September 2019

Dendritic cells (DCs) and leukemia-derived DC (DCleu) are potent stimulators of various immunoreactive cells and they play a pivotal role in the (re-) activation of the immune system. As a potential treatment tool for patients with acute myeloid leukemia, we developed and analyzed two new PGE1-containing protocols (Pici-PGE1, Kit M) to generate DC/DCleu ex vivo from leukemic peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or directly from leukemic whole blood (WB) to simulate physiological conditions. Pici-PGE1 generated significantly higher amounts of DCs from leukemic and healthy PBMCs when compared to control and comparable amounts as the already established protocol Pici-PGE2. The proportions of sufficient DC-generation were even higher after DC/DCleu-generation with Pici-PGE1. With Kits, it was possible to generate DCs and DCleu directly from leukemic and healthy WB without induction of blast proliferation. The average amounts of generated DCs and DCleu-subgroups were comparable with all Kits. The PGE1 containing Kit M generated significantly higher amounts of mature DCs when compared to the PGE2-containing Kit K and increased the anti-leukemic-activity. In summary PGE1-containing protocols were suitable for generating DC/DCleu from PBMCs as well as from WB, which reliably (re-) activated immunoreactive cells, improved the overall ex vivo anti-leukemic activity, and influenced cytokine-release-profiles.
Development of Immortalized Human Tumor Endothelial Cells from Renal Cancer
Authors: Maishi Nako , Kikuchi Hiroshi , Sato Masumi , Nagao-Kitamoto Hiroko , Annan Dorcas A. , Baba Shogo , Hojo Takayuki , Yanagiya Misa , Ohba Yusuke , Ishii Genichiro , Masutomi Kenkichi , Shinohara Nobuo , Hida Yasuhiro , Hida Kyoko
Published: September 2019

Tumor angiogenesis research and antiangiogenic drug development make use of cultured endothelial cells (ECs) including the human microvascular ECs among others. However, it has been reported that tumor ECs (TECs) are different from normal ECs (NECs). To functionally validate antiangiogenic drugs, cultured TECs are indispensable tools, but are not commercially available. Primary human TECs are available only in small quantities from surgical specimens and have a short life span in vitro due to their cellular senescence. We established immortalized human TECs (h-imTECs) and their normal counterparts (h-imNECs) by infection with lentivirus producing simian virus 40 large T antigen and human telomerase reverse transcriptase to overcome the replication barriers. These ECs exhibited an extended life span and retained their characteristic endothelial morphology, expression of endothelial marker, and ability of tube formation. Furthermore, h-imTECs showed their specific characteristics as TECs, such as increased proliferation and upregulation of TEC markers. Treatment with bevacizumab, an antiangiogenic drug, dramatically decreased h-imTEC survival, whereas the same treatment failed to alter immortalized NEC survival. Hence, these h-imTECs could be a valuable tool for drug screening to develop novel therapeutic agents specific to TECs or functional biological assays in tumor angiogenesis research.
Effects of the Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Balance of Alternating Peptides on Self-Assembly and Thermo-Responsive Behaviors
Authors: Ihsan Abu Bin , Nargis Mahmuda , Koyama Yasuhito
Published: September 2019

A series of N-substituted poly(Gly–alter–Val) peptides were successfully synthesized for the systematic evaluation of the micellization behavior of alternating peptides. Three-component polymerization employing an aldehyde, a primary ammonium chloride, and potassium isocyanoacetate afforded four alternating peptides in excellent yields. We investigated the dependence of the hydrophilic–lipophilic balance of alternating peptides on the micellization behavior. All the aqueous solutions of alternating peptides exhibited upper critical solution temperature (UCST) behaviors, strongly indicating that the alternating binary pattern would mainly contribute to the UCST behaviors. The cloud points of alternating peptides shifted to higher temperatures as the side chains became more hydrophilic, which is opposite to the trend of typical surfactants. Such unusual micellization behaviors appeared to be dependent on the quasi-stable structure of single polymer chains formed in water.
Transcriptional Changes in the Xylose Operon in Bacillus licheniformis and Their Use in Fermentation Optimization
Authors: Li Youran , Liu Xiang , Zhang Liang , Ding Zhongyang , Xu Sha , Gu Zhenghua , Shi Guiyang
Published: September 2019

The xylose operon is an efficient biological element used for the regulation of gene expression in Bacillus licheniformis. Although the mechanism underlying the xylose-mediated regulation of this operon has been elucidated, the transcriptional changes that occur under various fermentation conditions remain unclear. In this study, the effects of different conditions on xylose operon expression were investigated. Significant upregulation was observed during the transition from the logarithmic phase to the stationary phase (2.5-fold, n = 3, p < 0.01). Glucose suppressed transcription over 168-fold (n = 3, p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the inhibitory effect of glucose hardly strengthened at concentrations from 20 to 180 g/L. Furthermore, the transcription of the xylose operon increased at elevated temperatures (25–42 °C) and was optimal at a neutral pH (pH 6.5–7.0). Based on these findings, relevant fermentation strategies (delaying the induction time, using dextrin as a carbon source, increasing the fermentation temperature, and maintaining a neutral pH) were proposed. Subsequently, these strategies were validated through the use of maltogenic amylase as a reporter protein, as an 8-fold (n = 3, p < 0.01) increase in recombinant enzyme activity compared to that under unoptimized conditions was observed. This work contributes to the development of fermentation optimization and furthers the use of the xylose operon as an efficient expression element.
Factors Influencing Parental Awareness about Newborn Screening
Authors: Franková Věra , Dohnalová Alena , Pešková Karolína , Hermánková Renata , O’Driscoll Riona , Ješina Pavel , Kožich Viktor
Published: September 2019

Appropriate and timely education about newborn screening (NBS) helps to foster benefits such as prompt follow up, to promote parents’ autonomy via informed consent and minimize the harms such as reducing the impact of NBS false-positive results. The aim of this study was to ascertain how mothers are informed about NBS in the Czech Republic and to identify the variables associated with awareness about NBS. The questionnaires evaluating awareness and its determinants were mailed to a random sample of 3000 mothers 3 months post-delivery. The overall response rate was 42%. We analysed 1100 questionnaires and observed that better awareness about NBS was significantly associated with age, parity, number of information sources, child health status, size of maternity hospital and an obstetrician as the source of prenatally obtained information. Although the majority of mothers (77%) in our study recalled being informed by a physician or nurse in the neonatal ward, results have revealed that over 40% of participants did not have sufficient awareness about the principal aspects of NBS. Several measures including seminars for healthcare providers and the development and distribution of new educational materials were adopted to improve parental education about NBS in the Czech Republic.
Comparison of Satellite Soil Moisture Products in Mongolia and Their Relation to Grassland Condition
Authors: Vova Oyudari , Kappas Martin , Rafiei Emam Ammar
Published: September 2019

Monitoring of soil moisture dynamics provides valuable information about grassland degradation, since soil moisture directly affects vegetation cover. While the Mongolian soil moisture monitoring network is limited to the urban and protected natural areas, remote sensing data can be used to determine the soil moisture status elsewhere. In this paper, we determine whether in situ and remotely sensed data in the unaccounted areas of Southwestern Mongolia are consistent with each other, by comparing Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS) first passive L-band satellite data with in situ measurements. To evaluate the soil moisture products, we calculated the temporal, seasonal, and monthly average soil moisture content. We corrected the bias of SMOS soil moisture (SM) data using the in situ measured soil moisture with both the simple ratio and gamma methods. We verified the bias-corrected SMOS data with Nash–Sutcliffe method. The comparison results suggest that bias correction (of the simple ratio and gamma methods) enhances the reliability of the SMOS data, resulting in a higher correlation coefficient. We then examined the correlation between SMOS and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) index in the various ecosystems. Analysis of the SMOS and in situ measured soil moisture data revealed that spatial soil moisture distribution matches the rainfall events in Southwestern Mongolia for the period 2010 to 2015. The results illustrate that the bias-corrected, monthly-averaged SMOS data has a high correlation with the monthly-averaged NDVI (R2 > 0.81). Both NDVI and rainfall can be used as indicators for grassland monitoring in Mongolia. During 2015, we detected decreasing soil moisture in approximately 30% of the forest-steppe and steppe areas. We assume that the current ecosystem of land is changing rapidly from forest to steppe and also from steppe to desert. The rainfall rate is the most critical factor influencing the soil moisture storage capacity in this region. The collected SMOS data reflects in situ conditions, making it an option for grassland studies.
The Alternatives to Traditional Materials for Subsoil Stabilization and Embankments
Authors: Vukićević Mirjana , Marjanović Miloš , Pujević Veljko , Jocković Sanja
Published: September 2019

Major infrastructure projects require significant amount of natural materials, often followed by the soft soil stabilization using hydraulic binders. This paper presents the results of a laboratory study of alternative waste materials (fly ash and slag) that can be used for earthworks. Results of high plasticity clay stabilization using fly ash from Serbian power plants are presented in the first part. In the second part of the paper, engineering properties of ash and ash-slag mixtures are discussed with the emphasis on the application in road subgrade and embankment construction. Physical and mechanical properties were determined via following laboratory tests: Specific gravity, grain size distribution, the moisture–density relationship (Proctor compaction test), unconfined compressive strength (UCS), oedometer and swell tests, direct shear and the California bearing ratio (CBR). The results indicate the positive effects of the clay stabilization using fly ash, in terms of increasing strength and stiffness and reducing expansivity. Fly ashes and ash-slag mixtures have also comparable mechanical properties with sands, which in combination with multiple other benefits (lower energy consumption and CO2 emission, saving of natural materials and smaller waste landfill areas), make them suitable fill materials for embankments, especially considering the necessity for sustainable development.
New Poly(Propylene Imine) Dendrimer Modified with Acridine and Its Cu(II) Complex: Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Bosch Paula , Staneva Desislava , Vasileva-Tonkova Evgenia , Grozdanov Petar , Nikolova Ivanka , Kukeva Rositsa , Stoyanova Radostina , Grabchev Ivo
Published: September 2019

A second-generation poly(propylene imine) dendrimer modified with acridine and its Cu(II) complex have been synthesized for the first time. It has been found that two copper ions form complexes with the nitrogen atoms of the dendrimeric core by coordinate bonds. The new compounds have been characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The spectral characteristics of the modified dendrimer have been measured in different organic solvents, and a negative fluorescence solvatochromism has been observed. The antimicrobial activity of the dendrimers has been tested against model pathogenic microorganisms in agar and by broth dilution method. The cotton fabric treated with both dendrimers has been evaluated towards pathogenic microorganisms. The obtained modified cotton fabrics have been shown to hamper bacterial growth and to prevent biofilm formation. Dendrimer cytotoxicity has been investigated in vitro in the model HEp-2 cell line.
On a New Generalization of Banach Contraction Principle with Application
Authors: Işık Hüseyin , Mohammadi Babak , Haddadi Mohammad Reza , Parvaneh Vahid
Published: September 2019

The main purpose of the current work is to present firstly a new generalization of Caristi’s fixed point result and secondly the Banach contraction principle. An example and an application is given to show the usability of our results.
Evaluation of Light-Emitting Diodes’ Effects on the Expression Level of P53 and EGFR in the Gingival Tissues of Albino Rats
Authors: Ahmed Azhar Ghanim , Raziq Alaa Hani
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: The light-curing unit is considered an essential piece of equipment in every dental office. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) by the light cure (LC) device on gingival tissues of albino rats histologically and by regarding the expression of P53 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Materials and methods: Gingival tissues of the rats were exposed to LEDs for 30 s with an interval of 30 s for periods of 2 and 5 min and were examined after two and four weeks of light exposure. After the set time, histological sections were studied and the P53 and EGFR expressions were evaluated immunohistochemically and by molecular methods. Results: Mild hyperplasia and mild inflammatory response were detected in higher rates after two weeks of exposure when compared to 4 weeks postexposure. Whereas fibrosis was found at a higher rate after four weeks than that found after two weeks postexposure, parakeratosis was seen only in the group that was exposed for 5 min to LC and when biopsies were taken after 2 weeks. We found that the immunohistochemical expression of P53 was not changed. Similarly, the alteration of EGFR expression was statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05) when compared to the control group. The data obtained from the qRT-PCR reaction was analyzed using the comparative CT (2−ΔΔCT) method. Statistically, there was no significant difference in the expression of EGER and P53 gene transcripts. Conclusions: LED causes no serious alteration in P53 and EGFR expression, and only trivial histopathological changes occurred, most of which recovered after a 4-week interval.
Roles of Plant-Derived Secondary Metabolites during Interactions with Pathogenic and Beneficial Microbes under Conditions of Environmental Stress
Authors: Hiruma Kei
Published: September 2019

Under natural conditions, plants generate a vast array of secondary metabolites. Several of these accumulate at widely varying levels in the same plant species and are reportedly critical for plant adaptation to abiotic and/or biotic stresses. Some secondary metabolite pathways are required for beneficial interactions with bacterial and fungal microbes and are also regulated by host nutrient availability so that beneficial interactions are enforced. These observations suggest an interplay between host nutrient pathways and the regulation of secondary metabolites that establish beneficial interactions with microbes. In this review, I introduce the roles of tryptophan-derived and phenylpropanoid secondary-metabolite pathways during plant interactions with pathogenic and beneficial microbes and describe how these pathways are regulated by nutrient availability.
Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis Induction of Coumarins and Carbazole Alkaloids from Clausena harmandiana
Authors: Jantamat Porntip , Weerapreeyakul Natthida , Puthongking Ploenthip
Published: September 2019

Seven compounds, carbazole alkaloids (heptaphylline, 7-methoxyheptaphylline, 7-methoxymukonal) and coumarins (clausarin, dentatin, nordentatin, and xanthoxyletin), were isolated from the root bark of Clausena harmandiana. Antioxidation, cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction were evaluated in vitro. Results showed that clausarin exerted the highest DPPH radical scavenging and 7-methoxymukonal had the highest ferric reducing antioxidant power. In contrary, dentatin was the least DPPH radical scavenger, and heptaphylline was the least reducing antioxidant power. The isolated compounds showed different cytotoxicity. The hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) was generally more sensitive to the isolated compounds than lung cancer (SK-LU-1), colon cancer (HCT-116), and noncancerous (Vero) cell lines, respectively. Clausarin possessed the highest cytotoxicity selectively against cancer cell lines tested. 7-Methoxymukonal and 7-methoxyheptaphylline exhibited less cytotoxicity only in HepG2 cells and were inactive in the SK-LU-1 and HCT116 cells. Despite xantoxyletin possessing low antioxidant and low cytotoxic activity, it induced the highest apoptosis percentage with the lowest necrosis percentage of HepG2 cells after 24 h. In conclusion, xantoxyletin primarily show potential anticancer activity. The root bark of C. harmandiana is a good source of bioactive compounds or the lead for the development of new pharmaceutical agent.
(10Z)-Debromohymenialdisine from Marine Sponge Stylissa sp. Regulates Intestinal Inflammatory Responses in Co-Culture Model of Epithelial Caco-2 Cells and THP-1 Macrophage Cells
Authors: Lee Seon Min , Kim Na-Hyun , Lee Sangbum , Kim Yun Na , Heo Jeong-Doo , Rho Jung-Rae , Jeong Eun Ju
Published: September 2019

Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), collectively referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), are autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract. Debromohymenialdisine is an active pyrrole alkaloid that is well known to serve as a stable and effective inhibitor of Chk2. In the present study, we attempted to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of (10Z)-debromohymenialdisine (1) isolated from marine sponge Stylissa species using an intestinal in vitro model with a transwell co-culture system. The treatment with 1 attenuated the production and gene expression of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and tumor necrosis factor-α in co-cultured THP-1 macrophages at a concentration range of 1–5 μM. The protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were down-regulated in response to the inhibition of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB) translocation into the nucleus in cells. In addition, we observed that 1 markedly promoted the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and subsequent increase of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression. These findings suggest the potential use of 1 as a pharmaceutical lead in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases including IBD.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential and Utilization for Artificial Recharge of Groundwater Using Recharge Wells
Authors: Hussain Fiaz , Hussain Riaz , Wu Ray-Shyan , Abbas Tanveer
Published: September 2019

This study devised a practical solution to mitigate urban inundation and artificial recharge of groundwater using recharge wells which is the most viable surface runoff rainwater harvesting (RWH) technique in urban areas. The Rainwater Harvesting Pilot Project at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore was established to deal with urban flooding, artificial recharge of groundwater, and to avoid the mixing of rainwater in municipal sewerage. The study showed that Lahore city has great RWH potential from critical ponding roads that can be utilized to recharge the Lahore aquifer. With that ratio of recharge, the groundwater level can rise to 3.54 ft after every monsoon period if the same recharge wells structure are used, which is a key to groundwater sustainability in Lahore city. Moreover, the maximum recharging capacity of wells was 29.32 m3/h with satisfactory performance. Both recharge wells cleared the ponding volume within 3 to 3.5 h after the rainfall stopped. The filter media performance was also favorable with 25%–30% removal of contamination. All the water quality parameters were within the permissible limit against prescribed standards except coliform count that indicated the presence of sewage. In such a case the mixing of charcoal is recommended to shut up the coliform signals. This study identified that RWH using recharge wells is an alternative freshwater supply source for sustainable development of Lahore city and this technique should be the part of Master Planning and Policy Decision of Lahore as a suggestion.
Arguing over the Buddhist Pedigree of Tibetan Medicine: A Case Study of Empirical Observation and Traditional Learning in 16th- and 17th-Century Tibet
Authors: Gentry James Duncan
Published: September 2019

This article examines the relationship between the practice and theory of medicine and Buddhism in premodern Tibet. It considers a polemical text composed by the 16th–17th-century Tibetan physician and tantric Buddhist expert Sokdokpa Lodrö Gyeltsen, intending to prove the Buddhist canonical status of the Four Medical Tantras, the foundational text of the Tibetan medical tradition. While presenting and analyzing Sokdokpa’s polemical writing in the context of the broader debate over the Buddhist pedigree of the Four Tantras that took place during his time, this discussion situates Sokdokpa’s reflections on the topic in terms of his broader career as both a practicing physician and a tantric Buddhist ritual and contemplative specialist. It suggests that by virtue of Sokdokpa’s tightly interwoven activities in the spheres of medicine and Buddhism, his contribution to this debate gives voice to a sensibility in which empiricist, historicist, and Buddhist ritual and contemplative inflections intermingle in ways that resist easy disentanglement and classification. In this it argues that Sokdokpa’s reflections form an important counterpoint to the perspectives considered thus far in the scholarly study of this debate. It also questions if Sokdokpa’s style of argumentation might call for a recalibration of how scholars currently construe the roles of tantric Buddhist practice in the appeal by premodern Tibetan physicians to critical and probative criteria.
Reinforcement Learning-Based End-to-End Parking for Automatic Parking System
Authors: Zhang Peizhi , Xiong Lu , Yu Zhuoping , Fang Peiyuan , Yan Senwei , Yao Jie , Zhou Yi
Published: September 2019

According to the existing mainstream automatic parking system (APS), a parking path is first planned based on the parking slot detected by the sensors. Subsequently, the path tracking module guides the vehicle to track the planned parking path. However, since the vehicle is non-linear dynamic, path tracking error inevitably occurs, leading to inclination and deviation of the parking. Accordingly, in this paper, a reinforcement learning-based end-to-end parking algorithm is proposed to achieve automatic parking. The vehicle can continuously learn and accumulate experience from numerous parking attempts and then learn the command of the optimal steering wheel angle at different parking slots. Based on this end-to-end parking, errors caused by path tracking can be avoided. Moreover, to ensure that the parking slot can be obtained continuously in the process of learning, a parking slot tracking algorithm is proposed based on the combination of vision and vehicle chassis information. Furthermore, given that the learning network output is hard to converge, and it is easy to fall into local optimum during the parking process, several reinforcement learning training methods in terms of parking conditions are developed. Lastly, by the real vehicle test, it is proved that using the proposed method can achieve a better parking attitude than using the path planning and path tracking-based method.
Dual-Channel Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Based on a Single Spectrometer Using Compressive Sensing
Authors: Yi Luying , Sun Liqun , Zou Mingli , Hou Bo
Published: September 2019

Dual-channel spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) is one of the effective methods for improving imaging depth and imaging speed. In this paper, we design a dual-channel SD-OCT system based on a single spectrometer that can operate in two modes: (1) Increasing imaging speed and (2) expanding imaging depth. An optical path offset is preintroduced between the two channels to separate the two-channel data. However, this offset increases the requirement for the spectral resolution of the spectrometer in mode (1), so compressive sensing (CS) technology is used herein to overcome this problem. Consequently, in mode (1), when the spectral resolution of the spectrometer is the same as that used in the single-channel system, we use a dual-channel SD-OCT system combined with CS technology to double the imaging speed. In mode (2), when the spectral resolution of the spectrometer is only half of that used in a single-channel system, the imaging depth can be nearly doubled. We demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the method proposed in this work by imaging a mirror, a fish fin, a fish eye, and an onion.
Are Scientific Models of Life Testable? A Lesson from Simpson’s Paradox
Authors: Bandyopadhyay  , Grunska  , Dcruz  , Greenwood
Published: September 2019

We address the need for a model by considering two competing theories regarding the origin of life: (i) the Metabolism First theory and (ii) the RNA World theory. We discuss two inter-related points. (I) Models are valuable tools in understanding both the processes and intricacies of the origin of life issues. (II) Insights from models also help us to evaluate the core objection to origin of life theories called “the inefficiency objection” commonly raised by proponents of both the Metabolism First theory and the RNA World theory against each other. We use Simpson’s paradox as a tool for challenging this objection. We will use models in various senses ranging from taking them as representations of reality to treating them as theories/accounts that provide heuristics for probing reality. In this paper, we will frequently use models and theories interchangeably. Additionally, we investigate Conway’s Game of Life and contrast it with our Simpson’s Paradox (SP)-based approach to emergence of life issues. Finally, we discuss some of the consequences of our view. A scientific model is testable in three senses: (i) a logical sense, (ii) a nomological sense, and (iii) a current technological sense. The SP-based model is testable in the logical sense. It is also testable nomologically. However, it is not currently feasible to test it.
THE RESULTS OF TREATMENT OF STAGE II-III DISTAL GASTRIC ADENOCARCINOMA UNDERWENT SURGERY AND POSTOPERATIVE CHEMORADIATION THERAPY
Authors: Phan Canh Duy , Pham Anh Vu
Published: September 2019

Objectives: To evaluate the survival outcome, patterns of failure, and complications in patients treated with postoperative chemoradiation therapy in stages II-III of distal gastric cancer.

Materials & methods: Prospective study on 58 patients with stages II-III gastric adenocarcinoma, underwent distal gastrectomy and D1 or D2 dissection, completed post operative chemoradiation therapy with capecitabine and 4-6 cycles with EOX regimen at Oncology center of Hue central hospital from 01/2013 to 12/2015.

Results: Mean age was 55.16 ± 9.1, male/female ratio: 3/1, recurrence was common in the first year after treatment (62.5%), the average time of recurrence and metastasis were 13.50 ± 7.29 months and 18.75 ± 8.97 months, respectively. The mean overall survival was 41.21 ± 21.06 months. The mean disease free survival was 36.22 ± 22.64 months. The mean overall survival: stage II was 41.88 ± 20.78 months; stage III was 39.59 ± 22.27. The mean overall survival for extention of primary tumors: T3 was 40.79 ± 19.61 months; T4 was 41.33 ± 24.80 months. The mean overall survival for extensive of lymph nodes: N (-) was 41.16 ± 20.51 months, N (+) was 41.26 ± 22.06 months. Toxicity levels recorded as follow: leukopenia was mainly on grade 1 and 2 (33.6%), neutropenia was mostly on grade 1 and 2 (26.8%), as well as thrombocytopenia (8.6%); hemoglobin decrease was on grade 1 and 2 in most cases (41.4%); toxicity symptoms on digestive system like nausea-vomitting, diarrhea was mainly on grade 1 and 2.

Conclusion: Postoperative chemoradiation therapy helps to improve local and regional recurrence in locally advanced gastric cancer with acceptable toxicities.

Key words: Distal gastric adenocarcinoma, postoperative chemoradiation therapy
Verifying the farm size – environment interaction
Authors: Fürjész István
Published: September 2019

With this study, based on experience gained in the United States of America, the author intends to draw attention to the fact that farm size related questions in Hungary, which form an integrant part of farm policies all around the world, cannot and should not be discussed without taking environmental relations into account. In the United States, where the excessive use of agrochemicals poses a great threat to the environment, many researchers claim that the conventional large farm model is now getting outdated. These experts question the social and economic benefits of a large farm oriented farm structure and try to convince researchers arriving from Middle- and Eastern-European countries to reform their thought on optimum farm structure. In their opinion, it is essential to let countries in the region understand that they are not required to follow the US course of large farms, which many experts in the States also would prefer to leave. From the facts presented in this study, it can be concluded that large farms by nature can protect the environment less efficiently than small farms. It is also pointed out that the excessive use of fertilizers, which is a trait often attributed to large farms by researchers throughout the world, do not yet apply to large farms in Hungary. As regards the use of pesticides in Hungary, the unfavorable tendency portrayed in foreign literature is identified in this analysis, according to which the larger the farm involved in field cropping the larger per hectare doses they use to protect their crops.