bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Single Crystal X-Ray Structure, Hirshfeld Surface Analysis, DFT Computations, Docking Studies on Aurora Kinases and an Anticancer Property of 3-(2,3-Dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-6-yl)-6-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one
Authors: Ahn Seunghyun , Sung Jiha , Lee Ji Hye , Yoo Miri , Lim Yoongho , Shin Soon Young , Koh Dongsoo
Published: May 2020

The isoflavone compound 3-(2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-6-yl)-6-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one (6) was prepared and structurally characterized using NMR, mass spectrum and X-ray crystallography. Compound 6, C18H14O5, was crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/n with the cell parameters; a = 7.1869(4) Å, b = 10.2764(6) Å, c = 19.6771(10) Å, β = 99.442(2)°, V = 1433.57(14) Å3, Z = 4. In the title compound, the chromenone ring system is slightly twisted from planarity and the dihedral angle formed between the plane of the chromenone ring and benzene ring is 47.75°. Several intermolecular hydrogen bonds make the crystal stabilized in the three-dimensional structure, which was confirmed by Hirshfeld surface analysis. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level were carried out and the calculated geometric parameters were compared with the experimental results. A frontier molecular orbital calculation was performed to reveal that the energy values of highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest un-occupied molecular orbital (LUMO) were −5.8223 eV and −1.8447 eV, and the HOMO–LUMO energy gap was 3.9783 eV. A clonogenic long-term survival assay of compound 6 against HCT116 human colon cancer cells showed an anti-cancer ability, with GI50 value of 24.9 μM. Docking experiments within the active sites of aurora kinase A and B were carried out to explain the anti-cancer property of compound 6.
Estimation of Autoregressive Parameters from Noisy Observations Using Iterated Covariance Updates
Authors: Moon Todd K. , Gunther Jacob H.
Published: May 2020

Estimating the parameters of the autoregressive (AR) random process is a problem that has been well-studied. In many applications, only noisy measurements of AR process are available. The effect of the additive noise is that the system can be modeled as an AR model with colored noise, even when the measurement noise is white, where the correlation matrix depends on the AR parameters. Because of the correlation, it is expedient to compute using multiple stacked observations. Performing a weighted least-squares estimation of the AR parameters using an inverse covariance weighting can provide significantly better parameter estimates, with improvement increasing with the stack depth. The estimation algorithm is essentially a vector RLS adaptive filter, with time-varying covariance matrix. Different ways of estimating the unknown covariance are presented, as well as a method to estimate the variances of the AR and observation noise. The notation is extended to vector autoregressive (VAR) processes. Simulation results demonstrate performance improvements in coefficient error and in spectrum estimation.
Working Memory Training: Assessing the Efficiency of Mnemonic Strategies
Authors: Di Santo Serena , De Luca Vanni , Isaja Alessio , Andreetta Sara
Published: May 2020

Recently, there has been increasing interest in techniques for enhancing working memory (WM), casting a new light on the classical picture of a rigid system. One reason is that WM performance has been associated with intelligence and reasoning, while its impairment showed correlations with cognitive deficits, hence the possibility of training it is highly appealing. However, results on WM changes following training are controversial, leaving it unclear whether it can really be potentiated. This study aims at assessing changes in WM performance by comparing it with and without training by a professional mnemonist. Two groups, experimental and control, participated in the study, organized in two phases. In the morning, both groups were familiarized with stimuli through an N-back task, and then attended a 2-hour lecture. For the experimental group, the lecture, given by the mnemonist, introduced memory encoding techniques; for the control group, it was a standard academic lecture about memory systems. In the afternoon, both groups were administered five tests, in which they had to remember the position of 16 items, when asked in random order. The results show much better performance in trained subjects, indicating the need to consider such possibility of enhancement, alongside general information-theoretic constraints, when theorizing about WM span.
An Improved Coherent Integration Method for Wideband Radar Based on Two-Dimensional Frequency Correction
Authors: Shen Shijian , Nie Xin , Tang Lan , Bai Yechao , Zhang Xinggan , Li Lei , Ben De
Published: May 2020

A novel coherent integration method for the wideband radar is proposed in this paper based on two-dimensional frequency correction. The method realizes the motion compensation by data re-alignment in the fast time frequency-Doppler domain and can be implemented quickly and efficiently based on chirp-Z transform. The proposed method is validated by simulation and measured data. The work in this paper provides a new and effective way for coherent integration in wideband radar.
Assessment and Mitigation of Electric Vehicle Charging Demand Impact to Transformer Aging for an Apartment Complex
Authors: Hong Shin-Ki , Lee Sung Gu , Kim Myungchin
Published: May 2020

Due to the increasing use of Electric Vehicles (EVs), the effect of the EV charging power demand on the reliability of the power system infrastructure needs to be addressed. In apartment complexes, which have emerged as a common residential type in metropolitan areas and highly populated districts, high charging demand could result in substantial stress to distribution networks. In this work, the effect of EV charging power demand in an apartment complex on the aging of the Distribution Transformer (DT) is studied. A methodology based on the stochastic characterization of vehicle usage profiles and user charging patterns is developed to obtain realistic EV charging demand profiles. Based on the modeled EV charging profile and the transformer thermal model, the effect of different EV penetration ratios on DT aging for an apartment complex in the Republic of Korea is studied. Results for an EV penetration ratio of up to 30% indicated that DT aging could be accelerated by up to 40%, compared to the case without EV charging. To mitigate this accelerated DT aging caused by EV charging, the effectiveness of two integration approaches of Photovoltaic (PV) sources was studied. Based on a case study that included a realistic PV generation profile, it was demonstrated that a significant contribution to DT reliability could be achieved via the operation of PV sources. A more apparent contribution of PV integration was observed with an energy storage installation at higher EV penetration ratios. At an EV penetration ratio of 30%, a maximum decrease of 41.8% in the loss-of-life probability of the DT was achieved. The effects of different PV integration approaches and power management details on DT aging were also studied. The results demonstrate that the EV charging demand could introduce a significant level of stress to DTs and that this impact can be effectively mitigated by installing PV sources. These observations are expected to contribute toward the effective planning of power system infrastructures that support the design of sustainable cities with the widespread use of EVs.
Impact of an Energy Monitoring System on the Energy Efficiency of an Automobile Factory: A Case Study
Authors: Akhtar Tehseen , Rehman Asif Ur , Jamil Mohsin , Gilani Syed Omer
Published: May 2020

Energy-saving strategies cannot be implemented without having detailed and regular power consumption data of a facility. The installation of an energy monitoring and data logging system can help in planning energy efficiency improvement policies by providing daily, monthly, and yearly energy consumption reports and graphs. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the impact of an energy monitoring and management system on the improvement of energy efficiency in the industrial sector of developing countries. This study introduced an energy monitoring and data logging system installed in an automobile factory in Pakistan. Energy consumption data, which also included power quality data, were collected with the help of energy analyzers and transmitted to a centralized supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software for data logging and monitoring purposes. This system was developed by combining Modbus with industrial Ethernet to communicate real-time energy consumption data of the factory to multiple local and remote locations. Monitoring and logging the real-time energy consumption data helped the user to find the significant energy losses inside the factory and to implement various energy conservation policies inside the facility, resulting in energy efficiency improvement. The energy consumption results indicate that the proposed system can help achieve an approximately 8% improvement in energy efficiency.
A Method to Estimate and Analyze the Performance of a Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Power Plant
Authors: Phuong Truong Le , An Quoc Hoang , Tsai Huan-Liang , Van Dung Do
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a method to estimate the yield and analyze the performance of a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power plant including a rooftop PV system and a solar farm. The yield model was developed based on a commercial PV model in a MATLAB/Simulink environment. A simulation model is built to connect with the PV rooftop system and the solar farm in which their total installed capacities are 0.986 and 30.7 MW, respectively. The simulated and measured final yield results of a rooftop PV system in Vietnam are compared. Additionally, this paper provides a function of reducing the final yield corresponding to different PV operation temperature values. Furthermore, the performance of both a rooftop PV system and a solar farm, in Vietnam, are evaluated as the rated power of 0.986 and 30.7 MWp, respectively. The results also show that their performance is satisfactory, in which the value of the performance ratio (PR) average reaches 70% for the rooftop PV system and 80.45% for the solar farm within a six-month period, in 2019. The PR is also compared with a global PR average from 70% to 80% for a sufficiently well-performed solar system.
Overview on Grid-Forming Inverter Control Methods
Authors: Unruh Peter , Nuschke Maria , Strauß Philipp , Welck Friedrich
Published: May 2020

In this paper, different control approaches for grid-forming inverters are discussed and compared with the grid-forming properties of synchronous machines. Grid-forming inverters are able to operate AC grids with or without rotating machines. In the past, they have been successfully deployed in inverter dominated island grids or in uninterruptable power supply (UPS) systems. It is expected that with increasing shares of inverter-based electrical power generation, grid-forming inverters will also become relevant for interconnected power systems. In contrast to conventional current-controlled inverters, grid-forming inverters do not immediately follow the grid voltage. They form voltage phasors that have an inertial behavior. In consequence, they can inherently deliver momentary reserve and increase power grid resilience.
Assessment of Restoration Effects and Invasive Potential Based on Vegetation Dynamics of Pitch Pine (Pinus rigida Mill.) Plantation in Korea
Authors: Lee Hansol , An Ji Hong , Shin Hyun Chul , Lee Chang Seok
Published: May 2020

During the period of Japanese occupation (1910–1945) and the Korean War (1950–1953), extensive areas of forest were severely degraded by over-harvesting and fire in Korea. In addition, intensive use of the forest-resources to obtain fuel, organic compost, livestock feed, and so on contributed to forest degradation. As a result, the South Korean government launched large-scale tree planting projects to reforest the denuded mountains particularly in the 1960s. This study aims to evaluate the restoration effects of the pitch pine (Pinus rigida Mill.) plantations and further diagnose the invasive potential of the pitch pine. To arrive at the goals, we investigated the changes of vegetation and soil characteristics in different chronosequences in the pitch pine plantations and in native forests, which were selected as reference stands. Pitch pine plantations were usually planted on mountainous land, which is characterized by an elevation of below 300 m above sea level and a gentle slope below 20°. The species composition of the pitch pine forestations was different depending on the study site but tended to resemble that of the reference stands in the years after forestation. The species diversity showed an increasing trend in response to stand age. The frequency distribution of diameter classes of dominant tree species showed a trend for pitch pine plantations to succeed to native oak stands. A change in canopy profiles depending on stand age also proved the successional trend. The establishment and development of pitch pine plantations for reforestation contributed to erosion control and improved the physic-chemical properties of the soil and thus prepared a basis for the recovery of native vegetation. Such changes in vegetation and soil confirmed that the pitch pine plantations successfully achieved the restoration goals. On the other hand, mature pitch pine stands reproduced young pitch pine stands by self-seeding on the slopes of various sorts of roads including expressways. This shows that pitch pine is successfully established in Korea and thereby the species has been naturalized. However, the natural succession of pitch pine stands in Korea suggests that it is possible to introduce some exotic species for reforestation without resulting in uncontrolled invasion.
Representative Hardwood and Softwood Green Tissue-Microstructure Transitions per Age Group and Their Inherent Relationships with Physical–Mechanical Properties and Potential Applications
Authors: González Oswaldo Mauricio , Velín Anahí , García Andrés , Arroyo Carlos R. , Barrigas Hua Lun , Vizuete Karla , Debut Alexis
Published: May 2020

A better understanding of wood form–structure–function relationships and potentialities can lead to an enormous pool of fascinating solutions and inventions. In this research advances from both the anatomical and the mechanical points of view, the principles, fundamentals and concept generators derived from the inherent relationship between green tissue-microstructure and physical–mechanical properties of two representative woody species. Specifically, a total of 120 small-clear samples cut from six (e.g., three per wood species) Eucalyptus globulus (i.e., hardwood) and Cupressus macrocarpa (i.e., softwood) trees were sampled and tested to determine the tissue transitions per age group (e.g., juvenile, mature and senile) in terms of density, area, roundness and sphericity of vessel elements, longitudinal tracheids and longitudinal/ray parenchyma cells. Moreover, the studied green tissue-microstructure transitions were compared and analysed with the corresponding physical–mechanical properties [i.e., green density, moisture content, modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE)] of each species, which in turn were acquired from 159 tests carried out according to the German Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN standards). The results herein show mature and senile wood tissues are more rigid and mechanically resistant than juvenile ones, which is partially influenced by the progressive increment in cell-wall thickness as the wood-tissue ages, and this process is of greater magnitude for the eucalyptus species. Indeed, this representative hardwood species was found superior in terms of mechanical resistance to the progression of stresses due to a complex porous vascular system that becomes stronger as the tissue-microstructure ages. The design principles underlying the natural architectures of both studied green tissues provide concept generators for potential biomimetic and engineering applications, e.g., eucalyptus species are suitable for structural applications, whereas the superior flexibility found in the cypress species could be well bio-mimicked into composite panels, where the balance between strength and rigidity is of high relevance.
Methyl Salicylate and Sesquiterpene Emissions Are Indicative for Aphid Infestation on Scots Pine
Authors: Kivimäenpää Minna , Babalola Aishat B. , Joutsensaari Jorma , Holopainen Jarmo K.
Published: May 2020

Biotic stresses on forest trees are caused by various pest insects and plant pathogens. Attack by these parasites is known to induce the emissions of various biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), and the profile of these emissions often differs between infested and healthy plants. This difference in emission profile can be used for the non-destructive early-stage diagnosis of the stressor organism. We studied how phloem feeding by a large pine aphid (Cinara pinea Mordvilko) on the branch bark of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) affects BVOC emissions compared to those of healthy plants in two experiments. We found that in aphid-infested plants, methyl salicylate (MeSA) emissions significantly increased, and the emission rates were dependent on aphid density on the studied branch. Aphid infestation did not significantly affect total monoterpene emission, while the emissions of total sesquiterpenes were substantially higher in aphid-infested saplings than in uninfested plants. Sesquiterpene (E, E)-α-farnesene was emitted at increased rates in both experiments, and the aphid alarm pheromone sesquiterpene (E)-β-farnesene, only in the experiment with higher aphid pressure. We conclude that the rapid increase in MeSA emissions is the most reliable indicator of aphid infestation in pine trees together with (E, E)-α-farnesene.
An HS-GC-IMS Method for the Quality Classification of Virgin Olive Oils as Screening Support for the Panel Test
Authors: Valli Enrico , Panni Filippo , Casadei Enrico , Barbieri Sara , Cevoli Chiara , Bendini Alessandra , García-González Diego L. , Gallina Toschi Tullia
Published: May 2020

Sensory evaluation, carried out by panel tests, is essential for quality classification of virgin olive oils (VOOs), but is time consuming and costly when many samples need to be assessed; sensory evaluation could be assisted by the application of screening methods. Rapid instrumental methods based on the analysis of volatile molecules might be considered interesting to assist the panel test through fast pre-classification of samples with a known level of probability, thus increasing the efficiency of quality control. With this objective, a headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometer (HS-GC-IMS) was used to analyze 198 commercial VOOs (extra virgin, virgin and lampante) by a semi-targeted approach. Different partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) chemometric models were then built by data matrices composed of 15 volatile compounds, which were previously selected as markers: a first approach was proposed to classify samples according to their quality grade and a second based on the presence of sensory defects. The performance (intra-day and inter-day repeatability, linearity) of the method was evaluated. The average percentages of correctly classified samples obtained from the two models were satisfactory, namely 77% (prediction of the quality grades) and 64% (prediction of the presence of three defects) in external validation, thus demonstrating that this easy-to-use screening instrumental approach is promising to support the work carried out by panel tests.
Validation of HPLC and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) Techniques for Detection and Quantification of Aflatoxins in Different Food Samples
Authors: Omar Sharaf S. , Haddad Moawiya A. , Parisi Salvatore
Published: May 2020

Background: In Jordan as in other worldwide countries, mycotoxins are considered a serious national problem in food supplies. As a result, almost all nations are setting and adopting different regulations targeting the control of mycotoxins levels in the domestic food supply, including the problem of reliable sampling and analysis methods. Objective: It is necessary to improve and give evidence of analytical abilities of laboratories within Jordan and developing countries enabling them to monitor mycotoxins effectively in food to overcome non-tariff obstacles. Methods: We analyzed 40 samples from wheat, corn, dried fig and dried coffee beans for total aflatoxin content using High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Enzyme Linked Immunesorbent Assay (ELISA) methods. Results: 40% of samples from wheat, 60% from corn, 30% from dried fig, and 50% from dried coffee beans were found positive when speaking of total aflatoxins, with average values between 1.14 and 4.12 μg/kg. Obtained results allow considering all tested food samples as fit for human consumption if compared with the labeled regulatory limit of allowed aflatoxins in the European Union. In detail, the limit of detection and the limit of quantification for methods used in this study were significantly lower than the maximum limits established by the European Union. Highlights: The procedure used in this study is suitable for detection of mycotoxins at very low concentration.
Fungistatic and Fungicidal Capacity of a Biosurfactant Extract Obtained from Corn Steep Water
Authors: López-Prieto Alejandro , Vecino Xanel , Rodríguez-López Lorena , Moldes Ana , Cruz José
Published: May 2020

Biosurfactants are surface-active compounds that are produced by microorganisms, which in addition to their surfactant capacity, can possess interesting antimicrobial activities that are used in their incorporation into the agrifood industry. In this work, the preservative capacity of a novel biosurfactant extract obtained from a residual stream of the corn-milling industry was evaluated against two different fungi (Aspergillus brasiliensis and Candida albicans) under different biosurfactant concentrations (0.33–0.99 mg/mL), temperatures (4–40 °C), and incubation times (5–11 days). All the assays started with the same concentration of fungi (2 × 106 CFU/mL). The results showed that temperature played an important role in the fungicidal and fungistatic effects of this biosurfactant extract. It was observed that at a low biosurfactant concentration (0.33 mg/mL) and at low temperatures in the range tested, this biosurfactant extract possessed an important fungicidal effect (complete inhibition) on A. brasiliensis, while at intermediate temperatures, it achieved a fungistatic effect (50% of inhibition) at the highest concentration. Regarding C. albicans, it was observed that this strain was more resistant than A. brasiliens, although it was possible to achieve growth inhibitions of 76.3% at temperatures of 40 °C after 8 days of incubation with a biosurfactant concentration of 0.99 mg/mL. This work supports the possible application of biosurfactants extracted from corn steep water as preservatives and antimicrobial agents against fungal contaminations on agrifood products.
Characterizing Y-STRs in the Evaluation of Population Differentiation Using the Mean of Allele Frequency Difference between Populations
Authors: Zhou Yuxiang , Yao Yining , Liu Baonian , Yang Qinrui , Zhou Zhihan , Shao Chengchen , Li Shilin , Tang Qiqun , Xie Jianhui
Published: May 2020

Y-chromosomal short tandem repeats (Y-STRs) are widely used in human research for the evaluation of population substructure or population differentiation. Previous studies show that several haplotype sets can be used for the evaluation of population differentiation. However, little is known about whether each Y-STR in these sets performs well during this procedure. In this study, a total of 20,927 haplotypes of a Yfiler Plus set were collected from 41 global populations. Different configurations were observed in multidimensional scaling (MDS) plots based on pairwise genetic distances evaluated using a Yfiler set and a Yfiler Plus set, respectively. Subsequently, 23 single-copy Y-STRs were characterized in the evaluation of population differentiation using the mean of allele frequency difference (mAFD) between populations. Our results indicated that DYS392 had the largest mAFD value (0.3802) and YGATAH4 had the smallest value (0.1845). On the whole, larger pairwise genetic distances could be obtained using the set with the top fifteen markers from these 23 single-copy Y-STRs, and clear clustering or separation of populations could be observed in the MDS plot in comparison with those using the set with the minimum fifteen markers. In conclusion, the mAFD value is reliable to characterize Y-STRs for efficiency in the evaluation of population differentiation.
Molecular Characterization of a Date Palm Vascular Highway 1-Interacting Kinase (PdVIK) under Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Al-Harrasi Ibtisam , Patankar Himanshu V. , Al-Yahyai Rashid , Sunkar Ramanjulu , Krishnamurthy Pannaga , Kumar Prakash P. , Yaish Mahmoud W.
Published: May 2020

The date palm (Khalas) is an extremophile plant that can adapt to various abiotic stresses including drought and salinity. Salinity tolerance is a complex trait controlled by numerous genes. Identification and functional characterization of salt-responsive genes from the date palm is fundamental to understand salinity tolerance at the molecular level in this plant species. In this study, a salt-inducible vascular highway 1-interacting kinase (PdVIK) that is a MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK) gene from the date palm, was functionally characterized using in vitro and in vivo strategies. PdVIK, one of the 597 kinases encoded by the date palm genome possesses an ankyrin repeat domain and a kinase domain. The recombinant PdVIK protein exhibited phosphotyrosine activity against myelin basic protein (MBP) substrate. Overexpression of PdVIK in yeast significantly improved its tolerance to salinity, LiCl, and oxidative stresses. Transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings overexpressing PdVIK displayed improved tolerance to salinity, osmotic, and oxidative stresses as assessed by root growth assay. The transgenic lines grown in the soil also displayed modulated salt response, compared to wild-type controls as evaluated by the overall plant growth and proline levels. Likewise, the transgenic lines exhibited drought tolerance by maintaining better relative water content (RWC) compared to non-transgenic control plants. Collectively, these results implicate the involvement of PdVIK in modulating the abiotic stress response of the date palm.
Haplotypes of the Mutated SIRT2 Promoter Contributing to Transcription Factor Binding and Type 2 Diabetes Susceptibility
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Li Jiajun , Sheng Jie , Dai Yang , Wang Yue , Liu Jinbiao , Xu Yao
Published: May 2020

Genetic variability is an important causative factor for susceptibility and pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Histone deacetylase, sirtuin 2 (SIRT2), plays regulatory roles in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. However, whether the SIRT2 variants or haplotypes contribute to T2D risk remain to be elucidated. In this study, we first detected three novel polymorphisms (P-MU1, P-MU2, and P-MU3) in the promoter of SIRT2 in the Chinese population. All pairwise sets of the three loci were strongly in linkage disequilibrium. Next, we constructed the haplotype block structure, and found H1-GGC and H2-CCA accounted for the most (total 91.8%) in T2D. The haplotype combination H1-H1-GGGGCC displayed a high risk for T2D (OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.12–3.72). By association analysis, we found the individuals carrying H1-H1-GGGGCC had significantly higher fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin. The haplotype H1-GGC presented a 6.74-fold higher promoter activity than H2-CCA, which was consistent with the correlation results. Furthermore, we clarified the mechanism whereby the C allele of both the P-MU1 and P-MU2 loci disrupted the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) binding sites, leading to the attenuation of the SIRT2 transcription. Together, these data suggest that the linked haplotype GGC could be considered as a promising marker for T2D diagnosis and therapy assessment.
A Reference Genome of Bursaphelenchus mucronatus Provides New Resources for Revealing Its Displacement by Pinewood Nematode
Authors: Wu Shuangyang , Gao Shenghan , Wang Sen , Meng Jie , Wickham Jacob , Luo Sainan , Tan Xinyu , Yu Haiying , Xiang Yujia , Hu Songnian , Zhao Lilin , Sun Jianghua
Published: May 2020

The Bursaphelenchus mucronatus, which was highly similar with Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in terms of morphological characteristics and biological properties—but had weaker pathogenicity to forests—was a native species often displaced by B. xylophilus when occupying the same niche. Since the draft genome of the invasive B. xylophilus has been published, the absence of a reference genome of B. mucronatus still prevents us from understanding the molecular evidences behind competitive displacement. In this study, we employed Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT) sequencing and a Hi-C scaffolding approach to yield a near chromosome-level assembly of B. mucronatus, including six pseudo-chromosomes. The assembly size is 73 Mb, with scaffold N50 of 11.50 Mb and contig N50 of 1.48 Mb. Comparative genomics results showed high similarity between B. xylophilus and B. mucronatus. However, the losing of orphan genes and species-specific orthologous genes in B. mucronatus may indicate weaker adaptability to the environment. The gene family contractions of GPCRs (G Protein-Coupled Receptors) and cellulases in B. mucronatus may jointly contribute to its displacement by B. xylophilus. Overall, we introduced a valuable genomic resource for molecular and evolutionary studies of B. mucronatus, especially for studying the competitive displacement by the pinewood nematode, which could help us control the pathogenicity of pine wilt diseases.
MicroRNA-1253 Regulation of WASF2 (WAVE2) and its Relevance to Racial Health Disparities
Authors: Arkorful Mercy A. , Noren Hooten Nicole , Zhang Yongqing , Hewitt Amirah N. , Barrientos Sanchez Lori , Evans Michele K. , Dluzen Douglas F.
Published: May 2020

The prevalence of hypertension among African Americans (AAs) in the US is among the highest of any demographic and affects over two-thirds of AA women. Previous data from our laboratory suggest substantial differential gene expression (DGE) of mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) exists within peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from AA and white women with or without hypertension. We hypothesized that DGE by race may contribute to racial differences in hypertension. In a reanalysis of our previous dataset, we found that the Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein Verprolin-homologous protein 2 (WASF2 (also known as WAVE2)) is differentially expressed in AA women with hypertension, along with several other members of the actin cytoskeleton signaling pathway that plays a role in cell shape and branching of actin filaments. We performed an in silico miRNA target prediction analysis that suggested miRNA miR-1253 regulates WASF2. Transfection of miR-1253 mimics into human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) significantly repressed WASF2 mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.05), and a luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-1253 regulates the WASF2 3′ UTR (p < 0.01). miR-1253 overexpression in HUVECs significantly increased HUVEC lamellipodia formation (p < 0.01), suggesting the miR-1253–WASF2 interaction may play a role in cell shape and actin cytoskeleton function. Together, we have identified novel roles for miR-1253 and WASF2 in a hypertension-related disparities context. This may ultimately lead to the discovery of additional actin-related genes which are important in the vascular-related complications of hypertension and influence the disproportionate susceptibility to hypertension among AAs in general and AA women in particular.
Characterization of POU2F1 Gene and Its Potential Impact on the Expression of Genes Involved in Fur Color Formation in Rex Rabbit
Authors: Yang Naisu , Zhao Bohao , Hu Shuaishuai , Bao Zhiyuan , Liu Ming , Chen Yang , Wu Xinsheng
Published: May 2020

The naturally colorful fur of the Rex rabbit is becoming increasingly popular in the modern textile market. Our previous study found that POU class 2 homeobox 1 gene (POU2F1) potentially affects the expression of genes involved in fur color formation in the Rex rabbit, but the function and regulation of POU2F1 has not been reported. In this study, the expression patterns of POU2F1 in Rex rabbits of various colors, as well as in different organs, were analyzed by RT-qPCR. Interference and overexpression of POU2F1 were used to identify the potential effects of POU2F1 on other genes related to fur color formation. The results show that the levels of POU2F1 expression were significantly higher in the dorsal skin of the brown and protein yellow Rex rabbits, compared with that of the black one. POU2F1 mRNAs were widespread in the tissues examined in this study and showed the highest level in the lungs. By transfecting rabbit melanocytes with an POU2F1-overexpression plasmid, we found that the POU2F1 protein was located at the nucleus, and the protein showed the classic characteristics of a transcription factor. In addition, abnormal expression of POU2F1 significantly affected the expression of pigmentation-related genes, including SLC7A11, MITF, SLC24A5, MC1R, and ASIP, revealing the regulatory roles of POU2F1 on pigmentation. The results provide the basis for further exploration of the role of POU2F1 in fur color formation of the Rex rabbit.
“Integration Ist Definitiv Nicht Unser Anliegen, Eher Schon Desintegration”. Postmigrant Renegotiations of Identity and Belonging in Contemporary Germany
Authors: Lizarazu Maria Roca
Published: May 2020

This article examines the notion of “Desintegration” (de-integration), as introduced by German Jewish authors Max Czollek and Sasha Marianna Salzmann, against the backdrop of ongoing re-negotiations of identity, belonging, and “Heimat” (sense of home) in contemporary Germany. While many artistic contributions to the debates around “Desintegration” have come from the realm of performance art, I will pay special attention to Salzmann’s prize-winning novel Außer Sich (Beyond Myself) (2017), as a literary approximation of the “Desintegration” paradigm, which showcases what I call a “non-authoritative” poetics of non-belonging. I will conclude by showing that the notion of “Desintegration” and its connection to a broader “postmigrant” trajectory enable novel perspectives on three of the central issues discussed in this article: the current location of German Jewish literature and culture; contemporary German-language contestations of “Heimat” and belonging; and the relationship between art and politics.
The Influence Mechanism of Reputation Information on the Formation of Safety Trust in Chinese Infant Milk Powder
Authors: Cao Yanan , Li Cuixia
Published: May 2020

Infant milk powder has always been one of the food categories most sensitive to safety reputation information. The safety reputation of Chinese infant milk powder has been seriously damaged due to the occurrence of safety accidents and the resulting consumers’ still-unrestored confidence is an important factor which restricts the dairy industry revitalization. Therefore, this paper analyzes the impact of reputation information on the formation of safety trust in Chinese infant milk powder, taking reputation information transmission as the starting point and consumer psychological perception as the researching perspective. A questionnaire survey was conducted and 685 valid questionnaires were collected. The structural equation model is adopted to verify the theoretical model and corresponding research hypothesis that reputation information affects the safety trust of Chinese infant milk powder. The reputation information transmitted between relatives and friends has a stronger effect on the formation of safety trust in Chinese infant milk powder than the media. The degree of media pursuit of “news effect” and negative word-of-mouth have a significant negative impact on the formation of safety trust in Chinese infant milk powder, while reputation quality, positive word-of-mouth and relationship strength have a significant positive impact on that. The quality of word-of-mouth perceived by consumers from highly involvement group, rational group, urban group and high-educated group has a stronger influence on the formation of safety trust. The degree of media pursuit of “news effect”, positive word-of-mouth, negative word-of-mouth and relationship strength perceived by consumers from low involvement group, emotional group, rural group and low-educated group have stronger influence on the formation of safety trust.
The Management of Penetrating Aortic Ulcer
Authors: Salim Safa , Machin Matthew , Patterson Benjamin O. , Bicknell Colin
Published: May 2020

Penetrating aortic ulceration (PAU) is part of the spectrum of acute aortic syndromes (AAS), and is defined as an ulcerated intimal disruption due to atherosclerotic disease. PAU may be simple, isolated and asymptomatic, or it may be symptomatic, aneurysmal and extensive; these may progress and lead to rupture. This review aims to evaluate the treatment options for PAU. Treatment options range from radiological surveillance, risk factor modification, best medical therapy and open or endovascular surgical repair. Patients with PAU are frequently older and comorbid with relatively damaged aortic tissue; this can make open surgical repair more challenging. Endovascular repairs for larger, symptomatic, aneurysmal PAU may be performed with acceptable outcomes. Complex endovascular repairs may be required depending on the pathology. Patients with small, asymptomatic, uncomplicated PAU may be safely followed up with surveillance. PAU with concomitant intramural haematoma (IMH) should be closely monitored to observe for resolution or progression following conservative and medical management strategies. PAU is a unique entity and its natural history should be studied independently to better understand appropriate management strategies. This research is currently lacking, and larger studies or registries may be helpful in optimising PAU management.
SEIR Modeling of the Italian Epidemic of SARS-CoV-2 Using Computational Swarm Intelligence
Authors: Godio Alberto , Pace Francesca , Vergnano Andrea
Published: May 2020

We applied a generalized SEIR epidemiological model to the recent SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in the world, with a focus on Italy and its Lombardy, Piedmont, and Veneto regions. We focused on the application of a stochastic approach in fitting the model parameters using a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) solver, to improve the reliability of predictions in the medium term (30 days). We analyzed the official data and the predicted evolution of the epidemic in the Italian regions, and we compared the results with the data and predictions of Spain and South Korea. We linked the model equations to the changes in people’s mobility, with reference to Google’s COVID-19 Community Mobility Reports. We discussed the effectiveness of policies taken by different regions and countries and how they have an impact on past and future infection scenarios.
The Impact of Internet Medical Information Overflow on Residents’ Medical Expenditure Based on China’s Observations
Authors: Han Junqiang , Zhang Xiaodong , Meng Yingying
Published: May 2020

Background: The rapid rise of medical expenditure is a common problem in the field of public health around the world, but the challenges for the Chinese government are even greater. How to control the rapid rise in medical expenditure and reduce individuals’ economic burden when receiving medical treatment has become one of the core issues that the Chinese government urgently needs to solve. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Internet use on individuals’ medical expenditure and further discuss the potential impact mechanism. Methods: The data used in this study were from the 2018 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) conducted by Peking University. The Heckman sample selection model was used to analyse the impact of Internet use on individuals’ medical expenditure. Results: Internet use reduced the medical expenditure of individuals by 6.19%; high frequency Internet use reduced the medical expenditure of individuals by 15.1%, while low frequency Internet use had no impact. In addition, Internet use had different impacts on individuals’ medical expenditure at different levels of hospitals. Specifically, Internet use reduced the medical expenditure of individuals who received medical treatment at general hospitals by 9.63%, and high frequency Internet use reduced the medical expenditure of individuals by 22.2%. However, Internet use had no impact on the medical expenditure of individuals who received medical treatment at primary hospitals. Conclusions: Findings from this study underscore the importance of Internet use as an important role in reducing individuals’ medical expenditure. The use of the Internet can significantly reduce the level of individuals’ medical expenditure, and high frequency Internet use has a greater effect. However, Internet use has different impacts on individuals’ medical expenditure among different levels of hospitals. The reduction effect of Internet use on individuals’ medical expenditure is mainly concentrated in general hospitals but has no effect in primary hospitals.
Increasing Physical Activity in Empty Nest and Retired Populations Online: A Randomized Feasibility Trial Protocol
Authors: Cox Amy , Rhodes Ryan
Published: May 2020

Despite the extensive evidence on the benefits of physical activity (PA) in older adults, including reduced risk of disease, mortality, falls, and cognitive and functional decline, most do not attain sufficient PA levels. Theoretical work suggests that behavioral change interventions are most effective during life transitions, and as such, a theory-based, online intervention tailored for recently retired and empty nest individuals could lend support for increasing levels of PA. The aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of the intervention and study procedures for a future controlled trial. This study has a randomized controlled trial design with an embedded qualitative and quantitative process evaluation. Participants are randomized at 1:1 between the intervention and waitlist controls. Potential participants are within six months of their final child leaving the familial home or within six months of retiring (self-defined), currently not meeting the Canadian PA guidelines, have no serious contraindications to exercise, and are residing in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Participants are recruited by online and print flyers as well as in-person at community events. The study aims to recruit 40 empty nest and 40 retired participants; half of each group received the intervention during the study period. The internet-delivered intervention is delivered over a 10-week period, comprising 10 modules addressing behavior change techniques associated with PA. Primary outcomes relate to recruitment, attrition, data collection, intervention delivery, and acceptability. Secondary behavioral outcomes are measured at baseline and post-treatment (10 weeks). Intervention-selected participants are invited to an optional qualitative exit interview. The results of this feasibility study will inform the planning of a randomized effectiveness trial, that will examine the behavior change, health-related fitness, and well-being outcomes by exploring how reflexive processes of habit and identity may bridge adoption and maintenance in behavioral adherence.
Safety, Tolerability and Efficacy of Dietary Supplementation with Concord Grape Juice in Gulf War Veterans with Gulf War Illness: A Phase I/IIA, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Helmer Drew A. , Van Doren William W. , Litke David R. , Tseng Chin-Lin , Ho Lap , Osinubi Omowunmi , Pasinetti Giulio Maria
Published: May 2020

Approximately 30 percent of U.S. veterans deployed during the Gulf War (1990–1991) have been diagnosed with Gulf War Illness (GWI), a chronic multi-symptom disorder without widely available specific treatments. We investigated whether the consumption of Concord grape juice (CGJ), rich in anti-inflammatory flavonoids, would be tolerated and safe in individuals with GWI and explored improvement in cognitive function and fatigue. Thirty-six veterans with GWI enrolled in a 24-week randomized, double-blind, Phase I/IIA clinical trial to explore safety, tolerability, and feasibility of 16 ounces daily of commercially available CGJ compared to placebo. Participants completed neurocognitive tests and self-reported surveys at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks. Thirty-one participants (86%) completed the study; no dropouts were related to side effects. Thirty participants (83%) documented ≥80% adherence. There were no statistically significant unadjusted differences between CGJ and placebo groups in change in efficacy measures from baseline to endpoint. We employed general linear regression models controlling for baseline differences between groups which indicated statistically significant improvement in the Halstead Category Test–Russell Revised Version (RCAT) at endpoint in the CGJ group compared to placebo (8.4 points, p = 0.04). Other measures of cognitive functioning did not indicate significant improvements in the adjusted analyses (p-values: 0.09–0.32), nor did the fatigue variable (p = 0.67). CGJ was safe and well-tolerated by veterans with GWI. Our data suggest high tolerability and potential benefit from CGJ in veterans with GWI and can be used to inform future studies of efficacy.
Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms in the Elderly Population Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Dziedzic Beata , Sienkiewicz Zofia , Leńczuk-Gruba Anna , Kobos Ewa , Fidecki Wiesław , Wysokiski Mariusz
Published: May 2020

Introduction: A sharp rise in the population of elderly people, who are more prone to somatic and mental diseases, combined with the high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetes-associated complications in this age group, have an impact on the prevalence of depressive symptoms. Aim of the work: The work of the study was the evaluation of the prevalence of depressive symptoms in the elderly population diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and methods: The pilot study was conducted in 2019 among 200 people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged 65 years and above, receiving treatment in a specialist diabetes outpatient clinic. The study was based on a questionnaire aimed at collecting basic sociodemographic and clinical data and the complete geriatric depression scale (GDS, by Yesavage) consisting of 30 questions. Results: The study involved 200 patients receiving treatment in a diabetes outpatient clinic. The mean age of the study subjects was 71.4 ± 5.0 years. The vast majority of the subjects (122; 61%) were women, with men accounting for 39% of the study population (78 subjects). A statistically significant difference in the GDS (p < 0.01) was shown for marital status, body mass index (BMI), duration of diabetes, and the number of comorbidities. Patients with results indicative of symptoms of mild and severe depression were found to have higher BMI, longer disease duration, and a greater number of comorbidities. There were no statistically significant differences in the level of HbA1c. Conclusions: In order to verify the presence of depressive symptoms in the group of geriatric patients with diabetes mellitus, an appropriate screening programme must be introduced to identify those at risk and refer them to specialists, so that treatment can be promptly initiated. Screening tests conducted by nurses might help with patient identification.