MDPI Open Access Journals Platform

Open AccessArticle Identification of Phenolic Compounds from Hancornia speciosa (Apocynaceae) Leaves by UHPLC Orbitrap-HRMS

by Katherine Xavier Bastos, Clarice Noleto Dias, Yuri Mangueira Nascimento, Marcelo Sobral da Silva, Silvana Maria Zucolotto Langassner, Ludger A. Wessjohann and Josean Fechine Tavares

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 143; doi:10.3390/molecules22010143 (registering DOI)

Received: 23 November 2016 / Revised: 12 January 2017 / Accepted: 13 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Apocynaceae is a botanical family distributed mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In Brazil, they comprise about 90 genera and 850 species, inhabiting various types of vegetation. Within this large botanical family, the genus Hancornia is considered monotypic, with its

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Apocynaceae is a botanical family distributed mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In Brazil, they comprise about 90 genera and 850 species, inhabiting various types of vegetation. Within this large botanical family, the genus Hancornia is considered monotypic, with its only species Hancornia speciosa Gomes. Antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and antiviral activities are described for this species. Despite having been the target of some studies, knowledge of its chemical composition is still limited. In this study, the phenolics of H. speciosa leaves were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). As a result, 14 compounds were identified viz. protocatechuic acid, catechin, and quercetin, and another 14 were putatively identified viz. B- and C-type procyanidins, while just one compound remained unknown. From the identified compounds, 17 are reported for the first time viz. coumaroylquinic acid isomers and eriodyctiol. The results show that Hancornia speciosa can serve as source of valuable phenolics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)

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Open AccessArticle Polish Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis L.) Honey, Chromatographic Fingerprints, and Chemical Markers

by Izabela Jasicka-Misiak, Ewa Makowicz and Natalia Stanek

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 138; doi:10.3390/molecules22010138 (registering DOI)

Received: 14 November 2016 / Revised: 7 January 2017 / Accepted: 12 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

A case study of Polish Melilotus officinalis honey was presented for the first time. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) (after steam distillation, Soxhlet extraction, ultrasonic solvent extraction, and solid phase extraction (SPE)) and targeted high performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PAD)

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A case study of Polish Melilotus officinalis honey was presented for the first time. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) (after steam distillation, Soxhlet extraction, ultrasonic solvent extraction, and solid phase extraction (SPE)) and targeted high performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PAD) were applied to determine the characteristic components of honey. While ubiquitous in most honeys, carbohydrates, terpene derivatives, and phenylacetic acid dominated in the Soxhlet extracts (25.54%) and in the application of SPE (13.04%). In addition, lumichrome (1.85%) was found, and may be considered as a marker of this honey. Due to the presence of these compounds, Polish yellow sweet clover honey is similar to French lavender honeys. The major compounds determined in the methanolic extract were (+)-catechine (39.7%) and gallic acid (up to 30%), which can be regarded as specific chemical markers of the botanical origin of melilot honey. With respect to total phenolic and flavonoid contents, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays were determined spectrophotometrically. The honey exhibited a moderate antioxidant activity, typical for light honeys, which correlates well with its phenolic and flavonoid composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the collection Bioactive Compounds)

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Open AccessReview Reducing Postharvest Losses during Storage of Grain Crops to Strengthen Food Security in Developing Countries

by Deepak Kumar and Prasanta Kalita

Foods 2017, 6(1), 8; doi:10.3390/foods6010008 (registering DOI)

Received: 1 December 2016 / Revised: 9 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

While fulfilling the food demand of an increasing population remains a major global concern, more than one-third of food is lost or wasted in postharvest operations. Reducing the postharvest losses, especially in developing countries, could be a sustainable solution to increase food availability,

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While fulfilling the food demand of an increasing population remains a major global concern, more than one-third of food is lost or wasted in postharvest operations. Reducing the postharvest losses, especially in developing countries, could be a sustainable solution to increase food availability, reduce pressure on natural resources, eliminate hunger and improve farmers’ livelihoods. Cereal grains are the basis of staple food in most of the developing nations, and account for the maximum postharvest losses on a calorific basis among all agricultural commodities. As much as 50%–60% cereal grains can be lost during the storage stage due only to the lack of technical inefficiency. Use of scientific storage methods can reduce these losses to as low as 1%–2%. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review of the grain postharvest losses in developing countries, the status and causes of storage losses and discusses the technological interventions to reduce these losses. The basics of hermetic storage, various technology options, and their effectiveness on several crops in different localities are discussed in detail. Full article

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Open AccessArticle 3D Space Shift from CityGML LoD3-Based Multiple Building Elements to a 3D Volumetric Object

by Shen Ying, Renzhong Guo, Jie Yang, Biao He, Zhigang Zhao and Fengzan Jin

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2017, 6(1), 17; doi:10.3390/ijgi6010017 (registering DOI)

Received: 22 August 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 7 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

In contrast with photorealistic visualizations, urban landscape applications, and building information system (BIM), 3D volumetric presentations highlight specific calculations and applications of 3D building elements for 3D city planning and 3D cadastres. Knowing the precise volumetric quantities and the 3D boundary locations of

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In contrast with photorealistic visualizations, urban landscape applications, and building information system (BIM), 3D volumetric presentations highlight specific calculations and applications of 3D building elements for 3D city planning and 3D cadastres. Knowing the precise volumetric quantities and the 3D boundary locations of 3D building spaces is a vital index which must remain constant during data processing because the values are related to space occupation, tenure, taxes, and valuation. To meet these requirements, this paper presents a five-step algorithm for performing a 3D building space shift. This algorithm is used to convert multiple building elements into a single 3D volumetric building object while maintaining the precise volume of the 3D space and without changing the 3D locations or displacing the building boundaries. As examples, this study used input data and building elements based on City Geography Markup Language (CityGML) LoD3 models. This paper presents a method for 3D urban space and 3D property management with the goal of constructing a 3D volumetric object for an integral building using CityGML objects, by fusing the geometries of various building elements. The resulting objects possess true 3D geometry that can be represented by solid geometry and saved to a CityGML file for effective use in 3D urban planning and 3D cadastres. Full article

Open AccessArticle Localization-Free Detection of Replica Node Attacks in Wireless Sensor Networks Using Similarity Estimation with Group Deployment Knowledge

by Chao Ding, Lijun Yang and Meng Wu

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 160; doi:10.3390/s17010160 (registering DOI)

Received: 25 November 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Due to the unattended nature and poor security guarantee of the wireless sensor networks (WSNs), adversaries can easily make replicas of compromised nodes, and place them throughout the network to launch various types of attacks. Such an attack is dangerous because it enables

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Due to the unattended nature and poor security guarantee of the wireless sensor networks (WSNs), adversaries can easily make replicas of compromised nodes, and place them throughout the network to launch various types of attacks. Such an attack is dangerous because it enables the adversaries to control large numbers of nodes and extend the damage of attacks to most of the network with quite limited cost. To stop the node replica attack, we propose a location similarity-based detection scheme using deployment knowledge. Compared with prior solutions, our scheme provides extra functionalities that prevent replicas from generating false location claims without deploying resource-consuming localization techniques on the resource-constraint sensor nodes. We evaluate the security performance of our proposal under different attack strategies through heuristic analysis, and show that our scheme achieves secure and robust replica detection by increasing the cost of node replication. Additionally, we evaluate the impact of network environment on the proposed scheme through theoretic analysis and simulation experiments, and indicate that our scheme achieves effectiveness and efficiency with substantially lower communication, computational, and storage overhead than prior works under different situations and attack strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensor Networks)

Open AccessArticle Automated Extraction of Inundated Areas from Multi-Temporal Dual-Polarization RADARSAT-2 Images of the 2011 Central Thailand Flood

by Pisut Nakmuenwai, Fumio Yamazaki and Wen Liu

Remote Sens. 2017, 9(1), 78; doi:10.3390/rs9010078 (registering DOI)

Received: 24 October 2016 / Revised: 8 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

This study examines a novel extraction method for SAR imagery data of widespread flooding, particularly in the Chao Phraya river basin of central Thailand, where flooding occurs almost every year. Because the 2011 flood was among the largest events and of a long

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This study examines a novel extraction method for SAR imagery data of widespread flooding, particularly in the Chao Phraya river basin of central Thailand, where flooding occurs almost every year. Because the 2011 flood was among the largest events and of a long duration, a large number of satellites observed it, and imagery data are available. At that time, RADARSAT-2 data were mainly used to extract the affected areas by the Thai government, whereas ThaiChote-1 imagery data were also used as optical supporting data. In this study, the same data were also employed in a somewhat different and more detailed manner. Multi-temporal dual-polarized RADARSAT-2 images were used to classify water areas using a clustering-based thresholding technique, neighboring valley-emphasis, to establish an automated extraction system. The novel technique has been proposed to improve classification speed and efficiency. This technique selects specific water references throughout the study area to estimate local threshold values and then averages them by an area weight to obtain the threshold value for the entire area. The extracted results were validated using high-resolution optical images from the GeoEye-1 and ThaiChote-1 satellites and water elevation data from gaging stations. Full article

Open AccessTechnical Note Optical Tip Clearance Measurements as a Tool for Rotating Disk Characterization

by Iker García, Joseba Zubia, Josu Beloki, Jon Arrue, Gaizka Durana and Gotzon Aldabaldetreku

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 165; doi:10.3390/s17010165 (registering DOI)

Received: 22 November 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

An experimental investigation on the vibrational behavior of a rotating disk by means of three optical fiber sensors is presented. The disk, which is a scale model of the real disk of an aircraft engine, was assembled in a wind tunnel in order

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An experimental investigation on the vibrational behavior of a rotating disk by means of three optical fiber sensors is presented. The disk, which is a scale model of the real disk of an aircraft engine, was assembled in a wind tunnel in order to simulate real operation conditions. The pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the disk causes an airflow that might force the disk to vibrate. To characterize this vibration, a set of parameters was determined by measuring the tip clearance of the disk: the amplitude, the frequency and the number of nodal diameters in the disk. All this information allowed the design of an upgraded prototype of the disk, whose performance was also characterized by the same method. An optical system was employed for the measurements, in combination with a strain gauge mounted on the disk surface, which served to confirm the results obtained. The data of the strain gauge coincided closely with those provided by the optical fiber sensors, thus demonstrating the suitability of this innovative technique to evaluate the vibrational behavior of rotating disks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Sensors for Displacement, Distance, Flow, Velocity and Vibrations Measurements)

Open AccessArticle Modeling and Calibration of a Novel One-Mirror Galvanometric Laser Scanner

by Chengyi Yu, Xiaobo Chen and Juntong Xi

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 164; doi:10.3390/s17010164 (registering DOI)

Received: 19 October 2016 / Revised: 10 January 2017 / Accepted: 12 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

A laser stripe sensor has limited application when a point cloud of geometric samples on the surface of the object needs to be collected, so a galvanometric laser scanner is designed by using a one-mirror galvanometer element as its mechanical device to drive

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A laser stripe sensor has limited application when a point cloud of geometric samples on the surface of the object needs to be collected, so a galvanometric laser scanner is designed by using a one-mirror galvanometer element as its mechanical device to drive the laser stripe to sweep along the object. A novel mathematical model is derived for the proposed galvanometer laser scanner without any position assumptions and then a model-driven calibration procedure is proposed. Compared with available model-driven approaches, the influence of machining and assembly errors is considered in the proposed model. Meanwhile, a plane-constraint-based approach is proposed to extract a large number of calibration points effectively and accurately to calibrate the galvanometric laser scanner. Repeatability and accuracy of the galvanometric laser scanner are evaluated on the automobile production line to verify the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed calibration method. Experimental results show that the proposed calibration approach yields similar measurement performance compared with a look-up table calibration method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Sensors for Displacement, Distance, Flow, Velocity and Vibrations Measurements)

Open AccessFeature PaperReview PERM Hypothesis: The Fundamental Machinery Able to Elucidate the Role of Xenobiotics and Hormesis in Cell Survival and Homeostasis

by Salvatore Chirumbolo and Geir Bjørklund

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(1), 165; doi:10.3390/ijms18010165 (registering DOI)

Received: 29 October 2016 / Revised: 4 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

In this article the Proteasome, Endoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondria (PERM) hypothesis is discussed. The complex machinery made by three homeostatic mechanisms involving the proteasome (P), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria (M) is addressed in order to elucidate the beneficial role of many xenobiotics,

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In this article the Proteasome, Endoplasmic Reticulum and Mitochondria (PERM) hypothesis is discussed. The complex machinery made by three homeostatic mechanisms involving the proteasome (P), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria (M) is addressed in order to elucidate the beneficial role of many xenobiotics, either trace metals or phytochemicals, which are spread in the human environment and in dietary habits, exerting their actions on the mechanisms underlying cell survival (apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, DNA repair and turnover, autophagy) and stress response. The “PERM hypothesis” suggests that xenobiotics can modulate this central signaling and the regulatory engine made fundamentally by the ER, mitochondria and proteasome, together with other ancillary components such as peroxisomes, by acting on the energetic balance, redox system and macromolecule turnover. In this context, reactive species and stressors are fundamentally signalling molecules that could act as negative-modulating signals if PERM-mediated control is offline, impaired or dysregulated, as occurs in metabolic syndrome, degenerative disorders, chronic inflammation and cancer. Calcium is an important oscillatory input of this regulation and, in this hypothesis, it might play a role in maintaining the correct rhythm of this PERM modulation, probably chaotic in its nature, and guiding cells to a more drastic decision, such as apoptosis. The commonest effort sustained by cells is to maintain their survival balance and the proterome has the fundamental task of supporting this mechanism. Mild stress is probably the main stimulus in this sense. Hormesis is therefore re-interpreted in the light of this hypothetical model and that experimental evidence arising from flavonoid and hormesis reasearch. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hormesis and Transhormesis in Toxicology and Risk Assessment)

Open AccessArticle Modulation Index Adjustment for Recovery of Pure Wavelength Modulation Spectroscopy Second Harmonic Signal Waveforms

by Wei Wei, Jun Chang, Qiang Wang and Zengguang Qin

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 163; doi:10.3390/s17010163 (registering DOI)

Received: 22 November 2016 / Revised: 26 December 2016 / Accepted: 3 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

A new technique of modulation index adjustment for pure wavelength modulation spectroscopy second harmonic signal waveforms recovery is presented. As the modulation index is a key parameter in determining the exact form of the signals generated by the technique of wavelength modulation spectroscopy,

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A new technique of modulation index adjustment for pure wavelength modulation spectroscopy second harmonic signal waveforms recovery is presented. As the modulation index is a key parameter in determining the exact form of the signals generated by the technique of wavelength modulation spectroscopy, the method of modulation index adjustment is applied to recover the second harmonic signal with wavelength modulation spectroscopy. By comparing the measured profile with the theoretical profile by calculation, the relationship between the modulation index and average quantities of the scanning wavelength can be obtained. Furthermore, when the relationship is applied in the experimental setup by point-by-point modulation index modification for gas detection, the results show good agreement with the theoretical profile and signal waveform distortion (such as the amplitude modulation effect caused by diode laser) can be suppressed. Besides, the method of modulation index adjustment can be used in many other aspects which involve profile improvement. In practical applications, when the amplitude modulation effect can be neglected and the stability of the detection system is limited by the sampling rate of analog-to-digital, modulation index adjustment can be used to improve detection into softer inflection points and solve the insufficient sampling problem. As a result, measurement stability is improved by 40%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

Open AccessArticle Examining Multi-Legend Change Detection in Amazon with Pixel and Region Based Methods

by Mariane S. Reis, Luciano V. Dutra, Sidnei J. S. Sant’Anna and Maria Isabel S. Escada

Remote Sens. 2017, 9(1), 77; doi:10.3390/rs9010077 (registering DOI)

Received: 1 October 2016 / Revised: 5 December 2016 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Post-classification comparison is one of the most widely used change detection methods. However, it presents several operational problems that are often ignored, such as the occurrence of impossible transitions, difficulties in accuracy assessment and results not accurate enough for the purpose. This work

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Post-classification comparison is one of the most widely used change detection methods. However, it presents several operational problems that are often ignored, such as the occurrence of impossible transitions, difficulties in accuracy assessment and results not accurate enough for the purpose. This work aims to evaluate post-classification comparison change detection results obtained from LANDSAT5/TM data in a region of the Brazilian Amazon, using three legends in different levels of detail and both pixel wise and region based classifiers. A distinctive characteristic of the used approach is that each change mapping is the result of the combination of 100 land cover classifications for each date, obtained using varied training samples. This approach allowed to account for the training samples choice into the methodology, as well as the construction of confidence mappings. We presented and discussed different approaches for evaluating change results, such as the likelihood of land cover transitions occurring within the study area and time gap, the use of rectangular matrices to incorporate the occurrence of impossible or non evaluable changes and classification uncertainty. In general, change mappings obtained from region based classifications showed better results than the ones obtained from pixel based classifications. Globally, the use of region based approaches, in contrast to pixel based ones, led to an increase in accuracy of 15.5% for the change mapping from the most detailed legend, 7.8% for the one with the legend with intermediate level of detail and 3.6% for the less detailed one. In addition, individual transitions between land cover classes were better identified using region based approaches, with the exception of transitions from a non agriculture class to an agricultural one. The proposed quality mappings are useful to help to evaluate the change mappings, mainly in legend levels with higher level of detail and if reference samples are unreliable or unavailable. It was possible to access, in a spatially explicit way, that at least 29.0% of the pixel based change mapping and 21.9% of the region based one from the most detailed legend were erroneous classified, without ground truth information on the evaluated date. These values decreased to 0.5% and 1.4% (respectively the pixel and region based approaches) for results with the legend with the intermediate level of detail and are non existent in the results from the less detailed legend. The more generalized the legend (lower number of classes), the most similar are the accuracy of region and pixel based change mappings. These accuracy values also increase as fewer classes are considered in the legend, since similar classes are assembled during clustering, which reduces the overlap between groups. However, this accuracy is still low for operational purposes in areas with few changes, even considering the very high accuracy of the land cover classifications used to generate the change mappings (land cover classification with Overall Accuracy higher than 0.98 resulted in change mappings with Overall Accuracy around 0.83). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Forest Resource Monitoring and Uncertainty Analysis)

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Open AccessArticle Compressed Sensing Techniques Applied to Ultrasonic Imaging of Cargo Containers

by Yuri Álvarez López and José Ángel Martínez Lorenzo

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 162; doi:10.3390/s17010162 (registering DOI)

Received: 28 October 2016 / Revised: 8 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

One of the key issues in the fight against the smuggling of goods has been the development of scanners for cargo inspection. X-ray-based radiographic system scanners are the most developed sensing modality. However, they are costly and use bulky sources that emit hazardous,

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One of the key issues in the fight against the smuggling of goods has been the development of scanners for cargo inspection. X-ray-based radiographic system scanners are the most developed sensing modality. However, they are costly and use bulky sources that emit hazardous, ionizing radiation. Aiming to improve the probability of threat detection, an ultrasonic-based technique, capable of detecting the footprint of metallic containers or compartments concealed within the metallic structure of the inspected cargo, has been proposed. The system consists of an array of acoustic transceivers that is attached to the metallic structure-under-inspection, creating a guided acoustic Lamb wave. Reflections due to discontinuities are detected in the images, provided by an imaging algorithm. Taking into consideration that the majority of those images are sparse, this contribution analyzes the application of Compressed Sensing (CS) techniques in order to reduce the amount of measurements needed, thus achieving faster scanning, without compromising the detection capabilities of the system. A parametric study of the image quality, as a function of the samples needed in spatial and frequency domains, is presented, as well as the dependence on the sampling pattern. For this purpose, realistic cargo inspection scenarios have been simulated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultrasonic Sensors)

Open AccessArticle Comparative Solid-State Stability of Perindopril Active Substance vs. Pharmaceutical Formulation

by Valentina Buda, Minodora Andor, Adriana Ledeti, Ionut Ledeti, Gabriela Vlase, Titus Vlase, Carmen Cristescu, Mirela Voicu, Liana Suciu and Mirela Cleopatra Tomescu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(1), 164; doi:10.3390/ijms18010164 (registering DOI)

Received: 7 August 2016 / Revised: 28 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

This paper presents the results obtained after studying the thermal stability and decomposition kinetics of perindopril erbumine as a pure active pharmaceutical ingredient as well as a solid pharmaceutical formulation containing the same active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Since no data were found in

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This paper presents the results obtained after studying the thermal stability and decomposition kinetics of perindopril erbumine as a pure active pharmaceutical ingredient as well as a solid pharmaceutical formulation containing the same active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). Since no data were found in the literature regarding the spectroscopic description, thermal behavior, or decomposition kinetics of perindopril, our goal was the evaluation of the compatibility of this antihypertensive agent with the excipients in the tablet under ambient conditions and to study the effect of thermal treatment on the stability of perindopril erbumine. ATR-FTIR (Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared) spectroscopy, thermal analysis (thermogravimetric mass curve (TG—thermogravimetry), derivative thermogravimetric mass curve (DTG), and heat flow (HF)) and model-free kinetics were chosen as investigational tools. Since thermal behavior is a simplistic approach in evaluating the thermal stability of pharmaceuticals, in-depth kinetic studies were carried out by classical kinetic methods (Kissinger and ASTM E698) and later with the isoconversional methods of Friedman, Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose and Flynn-Wall-Ozawa. It was shown that the main thermal degradation step of perindopril erbumine is characterized by activation energy between 59 and 69 kJ/mol (depending on the method used), while for the tablet, the values were around 170 kJ/mol. The used excipients (anhydrous colloidal silica, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, and magnesium stearate) should be used in newly-developed generic solid pharmaceutical formulations, since they contribute to an increased thermal stability of perindopril erbumine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)

Open AccessArticle Continuous Glucose Monitoring Enables the Detection of Losses in Infusion Set Actuation (LISAs)

by Daniel P. Howsmon, Faye Cameron, Nihat Baysal, Trang T. Ly, Gregory P. Forlenza, David M. Maahs, Bruce A. Buckingham, Juergen Hahn and B. Wayne Bequette

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 161; doi:10.3390/s17010161 (registering DOI)

Received: 3 November 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 8 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Reliable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) enables a variety of advanced technology for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. In addition to artificial pancreas algorithms that use CGM to automate continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), CGM can also inform fault detection algorithms that alert

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Reliable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) enables a variety of advanced technology for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. In addition to artificial pancreas algorithms that use CGM to automate continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), CGM can also inform fault detection algorithms that alert patients to problems in CGM or CSII. Losses in infusion set actuation (LISAs) can adversely affect clinical outcomes, resulting in hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin delivery. Prolonged hyperglycemia may lead to diabetic ketoacidosis—a serious metabolic complication in type 1 diabetes. Therefore, an algorithm for the detection of LISAs based on CGM and CSII signals was developed to improve patient safety. The LISA detection algorithm is trained retrospectively on data from 62 infusion set insertions from 20 patients. The algorithm collects glucose and insulin data, and computes relevant fault metrics over two different sliding windows; an alarm sounds when these fault metrics are exceeded. With the chosen algorithm parameters, the LISA detection strategy achieved a sensitivity of 71.8% and issued 0.28 false positives per day on the training data. Validation on two independent data sets confirmed that similar performance is seen on data that was not used for training. The developed algorithm is able to effectively alert patients to possible infusion set failures in open-loop scenarios, with limited evidence of its extension to closed-loop scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glucose Sensors: Revolution in Diabetes Management 2016)

Open AccessArticle Patterns of Branch Growth and Death in Crowns of Sakhalin Spruce, Picea glehnii (F. Schmidt) Mast

by Lei Chen and Akihiro Sumida

Forests 2017, 8(1), 26; doi:10.3390/f8010026 (registering DOI)

Received: 23 December 2016 / Revised: 10 January 2017 / Accepted: 11 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

The development of crown architecture strongly affects tree growth and survival. Growth and death of primary branches (those branching off from the main stem) and secondary branches (those from a primary branch) in the lowest part of the crown were investigated for Picea

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The development of crown architecture strongly affects tree growth and survival. Growth and death of primary branches (those branching off from the main stem) and secondary branches (those from a primary branch) in the lowest part of the crown were investigated for Picea glehnii in an even-aged plantation. Probability of death of a primary branch decreased as the length between its basal location and the crown base (L_CB) increased (p = 0.04), but this probability was not significantly related to the relative photosynthetic photon flux density (rPPFD) above the primary branch (p = 0.18). The probability of producing one or more current-year shoots on a primary branch increased with increasing rPPFD above the primary branch (p = 0.01); however, this probability was unrelated to L_CB (p = 0.29). Secondary branches at the distal part of a primary branch produced more current-year shoots and exhibited a lower probability of death than proximal branches (p < 0.01), probably because rPPFD above the distal secondary branches was greater than the proximal branches (p < 0.01). Our results suggest that, while local light conditions are relevant to shoot production and shoot death on a primary branch, the death of an entire primary branch may be related to some morphological attributes concerning the length to the crown base. Full article

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle Role of UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 in the Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics of Silymarin Flavonolignans in Patients with HCV and NAFLD

by Ying Xie, Sonia R. Miranda, Janelle M. Hoskins and Roy L. Hawke

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 142; doi:10.3390/molecules22010142 (registering DOI)

Received: 8 December 2016 / Revised: 30 December 2016 / Accepted: 8 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Silymarin is the most commonly used herbal medicine by patients with chronic liver disease. Silymarin flavonolignans undergo rapid first-pass metabolism primarily by glucuronidation. The aims of this investigation were: (1) to determine the association of UGT1A1*28 polymorphism with the area under the plasma

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Silymarin is the most commonly used herbal medicine by patients with chronic liver disease. Silymarin flavonolignans undergo rapid first-pass metabolism primarily by glucuronidation. The aims of this investigation were: (1) to determine the association of UGT1A1*28 polymorphism with the area under the plasma concentration-time curves (AUCs) for silybin A (SA) and silybin B (SB); (2) to evaluate the effect of UGT1A1*28 polymorphism on the profile of flavonolignan glucuronide conjugates found in the plasma; and (3) to investigate the role of UGT1A1 enzyme kinetics on the pharmacokinetics of SA and SB. AUCs and metabolic ratios for thirty-three patients with chronic liver disease administered oral doses of silymarin were compared between different UGT1A1*28 genotypes. The AUCs, metabolic ratios, and the profiles of major SA and SB glucuronides did not differ significantly among the three UGT1A1 genotypes. In contrast, an increase in the proportion of sulfated flavonolignan conjugates in plasma was observed in subjects with UGT1A1*28/*28 genotype compared to subjects carrying wild type alleles. Differences in SA and SB in vitro intrinsic clearance estimates for UGTIA1 correlated inversely with SA and SB exposures observed in vivo indicating a major role for UGT1A1 in silymarin metabolism. In addition, a significant difference in the metabolic ratio observed between patients with NAFLD and HCV suggests that any effect of UGT1A1 polymorphism may be obscured by a greater effect of liver disease on the pharmacokinetics of silymarin. Taken together, these results suggest the presence of the UGT1A1*28 allele does not contribute significantly to a large inter-subject variability in the pharmacokinetics of silybin A and silybin B which may obscure the ability to detect beneficial effects of silymarin in patients with liver disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silymarin)

Open AccessArticle Modeling and Maximum Power Point Tracking Control of Wind Generating Units Equipped with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators in Presence of Losses

by Andrea Bonfiglio, Federico Delfino, Marco Invernizzi and Renato Procopio

Energies 2017, 10(1), 102; doi:10.3390/en10010102 (registering DOI)

Received: 27 September 2016 / Revised: 20 December 2016 / Accepted: 3 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

This paper focuses on the modeling of wind turbines equipped with direct drive permanent magnet synchronous generators for fundamental frequency power system simulations. Specifically, a procedure accounting for the system active power losses to initialize the simulation starting from the load flow results

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This paper focuses on the modeling of wind turbines equipped with direct drive permanent magnet synchronous generators for fundamental frequency power system simulations. Specifically, a procedure accounting for the system active power losses to initialize the simulation starting from the load flow results is proposed. Moreover, some analytical assessments are detailed on typical control schemes for fully rated wind turbine generators, thereby highlighting how active power losses play a fundamental role in the effectiveness of the wind generator control algorithm. Finally, the paper proposes analytical criteria to design the structure and the parameters of the regulators of the wind generator control scheme. Simulations performed with Digsilent Power Factory validated the proposed procedure, highlighting the impact of active power losses on the characterization of the initial steady state and that the simplifying assumptions done in order to synthesize the controllers are consistent with the complete modeling performed by the aforementioned power system simulator. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Techniques of Control for Energy Optimization in Actuators, Motors and Power Generation Systems)

Open AccessArticle Multi-Objective Aerodynamic and Structural Optimization of Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine Blades

by Jie Zhu, Xin Cai and Rongrong Gu

Energies 2017, 10(1), 101; doi:10.3390/en10010101 (registering DOI)

Received: 19 September 2016 / Revised: 19 December 2016 / Accepted: 4 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

A procedure based on MATLAB combined with ANSYS is presented and utilized for the multi-objective aerodynamic and structural optimization of horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) blades. In order to minimize the cost of energy (COE) and improve the overall performance of the blades, materials

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A procedure based on MATLAB combined with ANSYS is presented and utilized for the multi-objective aerodynamic and structural optimization of horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) blades. In order to minimize the cost of energy (COE) and improve the overall performance of the blades, materials of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) combined with glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) are applied. The maximum annual energy production (AEP), the minimum blade mass and the minimum blade cost are taken as three objectives. Main aerodynamic and structural characteristics of the blades are employed as design variables. Various design requirements including strain, deflection, vibration and buckling limits are taken into account as constraints. To evaluate the aerodynamic performances and the structural behaviors, the blade element momentum (BEM) theory and the finite element method (FEM) are applied in the procedure. Moreover, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA) II, which constitutes the core of the procedure, is adapted for the multi-objective optimization of the blades. To prove the efficiency and reliability of the procedure, a commercial 1.5 MW HAWT blade is used as a case study, and a set of trade-off solutions is obtained. Compared with the original scheme, the optimization results show great improvements for the overall performance of the blade. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wind Turbine 2017)

Open AccessArticle Casein Glycomacropeptide Hydrolysates Exert Cytoprotective Effect against Cellular Oxidative Stress by Up-Regulating HO-1 Expression in HepG2 Cells

by Tiange Li, Bin Chen, Min Du, Jiajia Song, Xue Cheng, Xu Wang and Xueying Mao

Nutrients 2017, 9(1), 31; doi:10.3390/nu9010031 (registering DOI)

Received: 14 September 2016 / Revised: 2 December 2016 / Accepted: 26 December 2016 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

Oxidative stress is considered as an important mediator in the progression of metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential hepatoprotective effects and mechanisms of bovine casein glycomacropeptide hydrolysates (GHP) on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative

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Oxidative stress is considered as an important mediator in the progression of metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential hepatoprotective effects and mechanisms of bovine casein glycomacropeptide hydrolysates (GHP) on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative damage in HepG2 cells. Results showed that GHP significantly blocked H₂O₂-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cell viability reduction in a dose-dependent manner. Further, GHP concentration-dependently induced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and increased nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation. Moreover, pretreatment of GHP increased the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), which were shown to contribute to Nrf2-mediated HO-1 expression. Taken together, GHP protected HepG2 cells from oxidative stress by activation of Nrf2 and HO-1 via p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Our findings indicate that bovine casein glycomacropeptide hydrolysates might be a potential ingredient in the treatment of oxidative stress-related disorders and further studies are needed to investigate the protective effects in vivo. Full article

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Open AccessArticle Association of School Environment and After-School Physical Activity with Health-Related Physical Fitness among Junior High School Students in Taiwan

by Kai-Yang Lo, Min-Chen Wu, Shu-Chin Tung, City C. Hsieh, Hsueh-Hua Yao and Chien-Chang Ho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(1), 83; doi:10.3390/ijerph14010083 (registering DOI)

Received: 11 August 2016 / Revised: 10 January 2017 / Accepted: 11 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

The relationship between students’ school environment and exercise habits is complex, and is affected by numerous factors. However, the few studies that have been conducted on this relationship have reported inconsistent results, especially regarding Taiwanese students. We conducted this cross-sectional study to investigate

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The relationship between students’ school environment and exercise habits is complex, and is affected by numerous factors. However, the few studies that have been conducted on this relationship have reported inconsistent results, especially regarding Taiwanese students. We conducted this cross-sectional study to investigate the association of school environment and after-school physical activity with health-related physical fitness in Taiwanese adolescents. Data were drawn from a national survey conducted by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan in 2008 of health-related physical fitness measurements among junior high school students (649,442 total) in grades seven to nine.School environment (level of urbanization, school size, presence of sports field or gymnasium) and after-school physical activity were assessed for their association with adolescents’ physical fitness measurements (body mass index (BMI), bent-leg sit-ups, 800-/1600-m run, sit-and-reach, standing long jump). Urban boys and girls perform significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; girls from rural areas exhibited significantly worse scores in body composition. Boys from large-size schools performed the worst in cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; whereas girls from large-size schools performed the worst in muscle strength, muscle endurance, and explosive power, but had the best score for body composition. However, the differences in body composition of boys from large-, medium-, and small- size schools did not reach a statistically significant level. Adolescents of both genders in schools with a sports field or gymnasium exhibited significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, and explosive power. Boys in schools with a sports field or gymnasium had significantly better body composition; girls in schools with sports field or gymnasium differed significantly in flexibility. Adolescents of both genders who participated in physical activity after school had significantly better body composition, cardiorespiratory endurance, and flexibility. Boys who participated in physical activity after school significantly differed in explosive power, whereas girls who participated in physical activity after school exhibited significantly better flexibility. Thus, the current study demonstrated that some factors, including urbanization (school location in rural or urban areas), school size, school facility provision (school with or without sports fields or gymnasiums), and after-school physical activity participation are more important than others in shaping adolescents’ physical fitness in Taiwan; meanwhile, these association patterns differed by gender. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health)

Open AccessShort Note An Electrostatic-Barrier-Forming Window that Captures Airborne Pollen Grains to Prevent Pollinosis

by Yoshihiro Takikawa, Yoshinori Matsuda, Teruo Nonomura, Koji Kakutani, Shin-Ichi Kusakari and Hideyoshi Toyoda

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(1), 82; doi:10.3390/ijerph14010082 (registering DOI)

Received: 7 December 2016 / Revised: 11 January 2017 / Accepted: 12 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

An electrostatic-barrier-forming window (EBW) was devised to capture airborne pollen, which can cause allergic pollinosis. The EBW consisted of three layers of insulated conductor wires (ICWs) and two voltage generators that supplied negative charges to the two outer ICW layers and a positive

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An electrostatic-barrier-forming window (EBW) was devised to capture airborne pollen, which can cause allergic pollinosis. The EBW consisted of three layers of insulated conductor wires (ICWs) and two voltage generators that supplied negative charges to the two outer ICW layers and a positive charge to the middle ICW layer. The ICWs generated an attractive force that captured pollen of the Japanese cedar, Cryptomeria japonica, from air blown through the EBW. The attractive force was directly proportional to the applied voltage. At ≥3.5 kV, the EBW exerted sufficient force to capture all pollen carried at an air flow of 3 m/s, and pollen-free air passed through the EBW. The findings demonstrated that the electrostatic barrier that formed inside the EBW was very effective at capturing airborne pollen; thus, it could allow a home to remain pollen-free and healthy despite continuous pollen exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Public Health)

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Open AccessArticle Stochastic Spatio-Temporal Models for Analysing NDVI Distribution of GIMMS NDVI3g Images

by Ana F. Militino, Maria Dolores Ugarte and Unai Pérez-Goya

Remote Sens. 2017, 9(1), 76; doi:10.3390/rs9010076 (registering DOI)

Received: 29 June 2016 / Revised: 23 December 2016 / Accepted: 8 January 2017 / Published: 15 January 2017

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Abstract

The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is an important indicator for evaluating vegetation change, monitoring land surface fluxes or predicting crop models. Due to the great availability of images provided by different satellites in recent years, much attention has been devoted to testing

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The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is an important indicator for evaluating vegetation change, monitoring land surface fluxes or predicting crop models. Due to the great availability of images provided by different satellites in recent years, much attention has been devoted to testing trend changes with a time series of NDVI individual pixels. However, the spatial dependence inherent in these data is usually lost unless global scales are analyzed. In this paper, we propose incorporating both the spatial and the temporal dependence among pixels using a stochastic spatio-temporal model for estimating the NDVI distribution thoroughly. The stochastic model is a state-space model that uses meteorological data of the Climatic Research Unit (CRU TS3.10) as auxiliary information. The model will be estimated with the Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm. The result is a set of smoothed images providing an overall analysis of the NDVI distribution across space and time, where fluctuations generated by atmospheric disturbances, fire events, land-use/cover changes or engineering problems from image capture are treated as random fluctuations. The illustration is carried out with the third generation of NDVI images, termed NDVI3g, of the Global Inventory Modeling and Mapping Studies (GIMMS) in continental Spain. This data are taken in bymonthly periods from January 2011 to December 2013, but the model can be applied to many other variables, countries or regions with different resolutions. Full article

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Open AccessArticle Volatile Compound Profiling by HS-SPME/GC-MS-FID of a Core Olive Cultivar Collection as a Tool for Aroma Improvement of Virgin Olive Oil

by Lourdes García-Vico, Angjelina Belaj, Araceli Sánchez-Ortiz, José M. Martínez-Rivas, Ana G. Pérez and Carlos Sanz

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 141; doi:10.3390/molecules22010141 (registering DOI)

Received: 2 December 2016 / Revised: 29 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Virgin olive oil (VOO) is the only food product requiring official sensory analysis to be classified in commercial categories, in which the evaluation of the aroma plays a very important role. The selection of parents, with the aim of obtaining new cultivars with

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Virgin olive oil (VOO) is the only food product requiring official sensory analysis to be classified in commercial categories, in which the evaluation of the aroma plays a very important role. The selection of parents, with the aim of obtaining new cultivars with improved oil aroma, is of paramount importance in olive breeding programs. We have assessed the volatile fraction by headspace-solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-flame ionization detection (HS-SPME/GC-MS-FID) and the deduced aroma properties of VOO from a core set of olive cultivars (Core-36) which possesses most of the genetic diversity found in the World Olive Germplasm Collection (IFAPA Alameda del Obispo) located in Cordoba, Spain. The VOO volatile fractions of Core-36 cultivars display a high level of variability. It is mostly made of compounds produced from polyunsaturated fatty acids through the lipoxygenase pathway, which confirms to be a general characteristic of the olive species (Olea europaea L.). The main group of volatile compounds in the oils was six straight-chain carbon compounds derived from linolenic acid, some of them being the main contributors to the aroma of the olive oils according to their odor activity values (OAV). The high level of variability found for the volatile fraction of the oils from Core-36 and, therefore, for the aroma odor notes, suggest that this core set may be a very useful tool for the choice of optimal parents in olive breeding programs in order to raise new cultivars with improved VOO aroma. Full article

(This article belongs to the collection Recent Advances in Flavors and Fragrances)

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Open AccessArticle Role of Electron-Driven Proton-Transfer Processes in the Ultrafast Deactivation of Photoexcited Anionic 8-oxoGuanine-Adenine and 8-oxoGuanine-Cytosine Base Pairs

by Xiuxiu Wu, Tolga N. V. Karsili and Wolfgang Domcke

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 135; doi:10.3390/molecules22010135 (registering DOI)

Received: 17 November 2016 / Revised: 28 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

It has been reported that 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-guanosine (8-oxo-G), which is the main product of oxidative damage of DNA, can repair cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) lesions when incorporated into DNA or RNA strands in proximity to such lesions. It has therefore been suggested that the

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It has been reported that 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-guanosine (8-oxo-G), which is the main product of oxidative damage of DNA, can repair cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) lesions when incorporated into DNA or RNA strands in proximity to such lesions. It has therefore been suggested that the 8-oxo-G nucleoside may have been a primordial precursor of present-day flavins in DNA or RNA repair. Because the electron transfer leading to the splitting of a thymine-thymine pair in a CPD lesion occurs in the photoexcited state, a reasonably long excited-state lifetime of 8-oxo-G is required. The neutral (protonated) form of 8-oxo-G exhibits a very short (sub-picosecond) intrinsic excited-state lifetime which is unfavorable for repair. It has therefore been argued that the anionic (deprotonated) form of 8-oxo-G, which exhibits a much longer excited-state lifetime, is more likely to be a suitable cofactor for DNA repair. Herein, we have investigated the exited-state quenching mechanisms in the hydrogen-bonded complexes of deprotonated 8-oxo-G⁻ with adenine (A) and cytosine (C) using ab initio wave-function-based electronic-structure calculations. The calculated reaction paths and potential-energy profiles reveal the existence of barrierless electron-driven inter-base proton-transfer reactions which lead to low-lying S₁/S₀ conical intersections. The latter can promote ultrafast excited-state deactivation of the anionic base pairs. While the isolated deprotonated 8-oxo-G⁻ nucleoside may have been an efficient primordial repair cofactor, the excited states of the 8-oxo-G⁻-A and 8-oxo-G⁻-C base pairs are likely too short-lived to be efficient electron-transfer repair agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental and Computational Photochemistry of Bioorganic Molecules)

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Open AccessReview Therapeutic Potential of Targeting the Th17/Treg Axis in Autoimmune Disorders

by Patrizia Fasching, Martin Stradner, Winfried Graninger, Christian Dejaco and Johannes Fessler

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 134; doi:10.3390/molecules22010134 (registering DOI)

Received: 12 December 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

A disruption of the crucial balance between regulatory T-cells (Tregs) and Th17-cells was recently implicated in various autoimmune disorders. Tregs are responsible for the maintenance of self-tolerance, thus inhibiting autoimmunity, whereas pro-inflammatory Th17-cells contribute to the induction and propagation of inflammation. Distortion of

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A disruption of the crucial balance between regulatory T-cells (Tregs) and Th17-cells was recently implicated in various autoimmune disorders. Tregs are responsible for the maintenance of self-tolerance, thus inhibiting autoimmunity, whereas pro-inflammatory Th17-cells contribute to the induction and propagation of inflammation. Distortion of the Th17/Treg balance favoring the pro-inflammatory Th17 side is hence suspected to contribute to exacerbation of autoimmune disorders. This review aims to summarize recent data and advances in targeted therapeutic modification of the Th17/Treg-balance, as well as information on the efficacy of candidate therapeutics with respect to the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecules Mediating Allergic and Autoimmune Inflammation: Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Christopher W. K. Lam’s Research Achievements on the Occasion of His 70th Birthday)

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Open AccessArticle Spatiotemporal Dynamics of a Delayed and Diffusive Viral Infection Model with Logistic Growth

by Kejun Zhuang

Math. Comput. Appl. 2017, 22(1), 7; doi:10.3390/mca22010007 (registering DOI)

Received: 28 October 2016 / Revised: 21 December 2016 / Accepted: 21 December 2016 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Viruses have important influences on human health: they not only cause some common diseases, but also cause serious illnesses. Moreover, the conventional medicines usually fail to prevent or treat them, and viral infections are hard to treat because viruses live inside the body’s

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Viruses have important influences on human health: they not only cause some common diseases, but also cause serious illnesses. Moreover, the conventional medicines usually fail to prevent or treat them, and viral infections are hard to treat because viruses live inside the body’s cells. However, some mathematical models can help to understand the viral transmission mechanism and control viral diseases. In this paper, a delayed viral infection model with spatial diffusion and logistic growth is presented. The asymptotic stability of nonnegative uniform steady states is investigated by utilizing the linearized method and constructing the proper Lyapunov functional, respectively. The existence of Hopf bifurcation from the positive equilibrium point is established by analyzing the corresponding characteristic equation and the direction of bifurcation, and the properties of bifurcating periodic solutions are derived by the aid of the normal form theory for partial functional differential equations. Then, the cross-diffusion system is introduced. Furthermore, some numerical simulations are carried, out and discussions are given. Full article

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Open AccessArticle A Fast Multimodal Ectopic Beat Detection Method Applied for Blood Pressure Estimation Based on Pulse Wave Velocity Measurements in Wearable Sensors

by Maik Pflugradt, Kai Geissdoerfer, Matthias Goernig and Reinhold Orglmeister

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 158; doi:10.3390/s17010158 (registering DOI)

Received: 9 November 2016 / Revised: 7 January 2017 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Automatic detection of ectopic beats has become a thoroughly researched topic, with literature providing manifold proposals typically incorporating morphological analysis of the electrocardiogram (ECG). Although being well understood, its utilization is often neglected, especially in practical monitoring situations like online evaluation of signals

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Automatic detection of ectopic beats has become a thoroughly researched topic, with literature providing manifold proposals typically incorporating morphological analysis of the electrocardiogram (ECG). Although being well understood, its utilization is often neglected, especially in practical monitoring situations like online evaluation of signals acquired in wearable sensors. Continuous blood pressure estimation based on pulse wave velocity considerations is a prominent example, which depends on careful fiducial point extraction and is therefore seriously affected during periods of increased occurring extrasystoles. In the scope of this work, a novel ectopic beat discriminator with low computational complexity has been developed, which takes advantage of multimodal features derived from ECG and pulse wave relating measurements, thereby providing additional information on the underlying cardiac activity. Moreover, the blood pressure estimations’ vulnerability towards ectopic beats is closely examined on records drawn from the Physionet database as well as signals recorded in a small field study conducted in a geriatric facility for the elderly. It turns out that a reliable extrasystole identification is essential to unsupervised blood pressure estimation, having a significant impact on the overall accuracy. The proposed method further convinces by its applicability to battery driven hardware systems with limited processing power and is a favorable choice when access to multimodal signal features is given anyway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wearable Biomedical Sensors)

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Open AccessReview Recent Advances in Conjugated Polymer-Based Microwave Absorbing Materials

by Ying Wang, Yunchen Du, Ping Xu, Rong Qiang and Xijiang Han

Polymers 2017, 9(1), 29; doi:10.3390/polym9010029 (registering DOI)

Received: 20 September 2016 / Revised: 29 November 2016 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Microwave absorbing materials (MAMs) are paving the way for exciting applications in electromagnetic (EM) pollution precaution and national defense security, as they offer an advanced alternative to conventional reflection principles to fundamentally eliminate the EM waves. Conjugated polymer (CP)-based composites appear as a

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Microwave absorbing materials (MAMs) are paving the way for exciting applications in electromagnetic (EM) pollution precaution and national defense security, as they offer an advanced alternative to conventional reflection principles to fundamentally eliminate the EM waves. Conjugated polymer (CP)-based composites appear as a promising kind of MAM with the desirable features of low density and high performance. In this review, we introduce the theory of microwave absorption and summarize recent advances in the fabrication of CP-based MAMs, including rational design of the microstructure of pure conjugated polymers and tunable chemical integration with magnetic ferrites, magnetic metals, transition metal oxides, and carbon materials. The key point of enhancing microwave absorption in CP-based MAMs is to regulate their EM properties, improve matching of characteristic impedance, and create diversified loss mechanisms. The examples presented in this review will provide new insights into the design and preparation of CP-based composites that can satisfy the high demands of the oncoming generation of MAMs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conjugated Polymers 2016)

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Open AccessArticle Bulk Data Dissemination in Low Power Sensor Networks: Present and Future Directions

by Zhirong Xu, Tianlei Hu and Qianshu Song

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 156; doi:10.3390/s17010156 (registering DOI)

Received: 10 October 2016 / Revised: 23 December 2016 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Wireless sensor network-based (WSN-based) applications need an efficient and reliable data dissemination service to facilitate maintenance, management and data distribution tasks. As WSNs nowadays are becoming pervasive and data intensive, bulk data dissemination protocols have been extensively studied recently. This paper provides a

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Wireless sensor network-based (WSN-based) applications need an efficient and reliable data dissemination service to facilitate maintenance, management and data distribution tasks. As WSNs nowadays are becoming pervasive and data intensive, bulk data dissemination protocols have been extensively studied recently. This paper provides a comprehensive survey of the state-of-the-art bulk data dissemination protocols. The large number of papers available in the literature propose various techniques to optimize the dissemination protocols. Different from the existing survey works which separately explores the building blocks of dissemination, our work categorizes the literature according to the optimization purposes: Reliability, Scalability and Transmission/Energy efficiency. By summarizing and reviewing the key insights and techniques, we further discuss on the future directions for each category. Our survey helps unveil three key findings for future direction: (1) The recent advances in wireless communications (e.g., study on cross-technology interference, error estimating codes, constructive interference, capture effect) can be potentially exploited to support further optimization on the reliability and energy efficiency of dissemination protocols; (2) Dissemination in multi-channel, multi-task and opportunistic networks requires more efforts to fully exploit the spatial-temporal network resources to enhance the data propagation; (3) Since many designs incur changes on MAC layer protocols, the co-existence of dissemination with other network protocols is another problem left to be addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensor Networks)

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Open AccessArticle Rapid Transfer Alignment of MEMS SINS Based on Adaptive Incremental Kalman Filter

by Hairong Chu, Tingting Sun, Baiqiang Zhang, Hongwei Zhang and Yang Chen

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 152; doi:10.3390/s17010152 (registering DOI)

Received: 2 October 2016 / Revised: 19 December 2016 / Accepted: 31 December 2016 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

In airborne MEMS SINS transfer alignment, the error of MEMS IMU is highly environment-dependent and the parameters of the system model are also uncertain, which may lead to large error and bad convergence of the Kalman filter. In order to solve this problem,

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In airborne MEMS SINS transfer alignment, the error of MEMS IMU is highly environment-dependent and the parameters of the system model are also uncertain, which may lead to large error and bad convergence of the Kalman filter. In order to solve this problem, an improved adaptive incremental Kalman filter (AIKF) algorithm is proposed. First, the model of SINS transfer alignment is defined based on the “Velocity and Attitude” matching method. Then the detailed algorithm progress of AIKF and its recurrence formulas are presented. The performance and calculation amount of AKF and AIKF are also compared. Finally, a simulation test is designed to verify the accuracy and the rapidity of the AIKF algorithm by comparing it with KF and AKF. The results show that the AIKF algorithm has better estimation accuracy and shorter convergence time, especially for the bias of the gyroscope and the accelerometer, which can meet the accuracy and rapidity requirement of transfer alignment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue MEMS and Nano-Sensors)

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Open AccessArticle Development of a Topical Resveratrol Formulation for Commercial Applications Using Dendrimer Nanotechnology

by Tyler Pentek, Eric Newenhouse, Brennin O’Brien and Abhay Singh Chauhan

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 137; doi:10.3390/molecules22010137 (registering DOI)

Received: 16 November 2016 / Revised: 24 December 2016 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Resveratrol (RSV) is well known for its anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. However, resveratrol is insoluble in water and has stability issues. Recently, efforts were placed to prepare a resveratrol-based advanced anti-aging topical product but it contains harsh organic solvents and oils that could

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Resveratrol (RSV) is well known for its anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. However, resveratrol is insoluble in water and has stability issues. Recently, efforts were placed to prepare a resveratrol-based advanced anti-aging topical product but it contains harsh organic solvents and oils that could be harmful to the human body and the environment. Hence, we propose the use of a multifunctional dendrimer to solve the solubility and stability issues of resveratrol. A dendrimer-resveratrol complex was prepared, optimized and tested for solubility enhancement, stability in solution and cream dosage forms. We have also developed a high performance liquid chromatography method to measure the resveratrol within the final product. PAMAM dendrimers increased the solubility and stability of resveratrol in water and semisolid dosage forms. Therefore, this product would be water based ‘green’ formulation devoid of harsh organic solvents and oils and can be safely applied to the skin. Additionally, we have shown that the dendrimer helped to increase overall RSV loading and skin penetration of resveratrol. The dendrimer-RSV formulation was successfully scaled up towards commercialization. Dendrimer with RSV has led to an innovation in anti-aging cream and solutions that could be commercially marketed. Dendrimer-RSV complex could also be added to other product forms for additional purposes and applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improvements for Resveratrol Efficacy)

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Open AccessArticle Manganese and Zinc Spinel Ferrites Blended with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Microwave Absorbing Materials

by Ahmet Teber, Kadir Cil, Turgut Yilmaz, Busra Eraslan, Dilara Uysal, Gokce Surucu, Abdul H. Baykal and Rajeev Bansal

Aerospace 2017, 4(1), 2; doi:10.3390/aerospace4010002 (registering DOI)

Received: 27 October 2016 / Revised: 10 January 2017 / Accepted: 11 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Magnetic and dielectric materials can be blended to enhance absorption properties at microwave frequencies, although the materials may have relatively weak attenuation capabilities by themselves. The specific goal of this work is to enhance microwave absorption properties of materials with interesting dielectric behavior

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Magnetic and dielectric materials can be blended to enhance absorption properties at microwave frequencies, although the materials may have relatively weak attenuation capabilities by themselves. The specific goal of this work is to enhance microwave absorption properties of materials with interesting dielectric behavior by blending them with magnetic materials based on transition metals. The synthesized Mn_1−xZn_xFe₂O₄ (x = 0.0 and 1.0) spinel ferrite nanoparticles (MZF NPs) were blended with commercial multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in various proportions with a binder matrix of paraffin. This simple and efficient process did not cause a significant variation in the energy states of MWCNTs. MZF NPs were synthesized with a citric acid assisted sol–gel method. Their electromagnetic characteristics and microwave absorption properties were investigated. These properties were derived from the microwave scattering parameters measured via the transmission line technique by using a vector network analyzer (VNA) in conjunction with an X band waveguide system. The return loss (RL) values of the samples were obtained from the electromagnetic constitutive parameters (permittivity and permeability). The results indicate that the minimum RL value and the bandwidth change significantly with the amount of ferrite material in the blend. These results encourage further development of MWCNTs blended with ferrite nanoparticles for broadband microwave applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptive/Smart Structures and Multifunctional Materials 2016)

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Open AccessArticle Spread of the Introduced Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis) in Coastal Norway

by Per Holm Nygaard and Bernt-Håvard Øyen

Forests 2017, 8(1), 24; doi:10.3390/f8010024 (registering DOI)

Received: 28 October 2016 / Revised: 4 January 2017 / Accepted: 8 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Positive and negative effects on ecosystem services from plantation forestry in Europe have led to conflicts regarding non-native tree species. Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.) is the most common plantation species in northwest Europe, covering 1.3 Mha. In costal Norway, Sitka

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Positive and negative effects on ecosystem services from plantation forestry in Europe have led to conflicts regarding non-native tree species. Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.) is the most common plantation species in northwest Europe, covering 1.3 Mha. In costal Norway, Sitka spruce was intentionally introduced and is currently occupying about 50,000 ha. Sitka spruce was blacklisted in Norway in 2012, mainly based on the risk for invasive spreading, but little quantitative documentation exists on spread. Here we quantify spread from plantations into abandoned heathland and pastures in thirteen sites where natural regeneration occurs. Spread distances and zero-square distributions related to the nearest edge of the parent stand were fitted by use of Weibull. The median expansion rate was 0.8 m·year⁻¹ in north Norway and 4.4 m·year⁻¹ in west Norway. The maximum establishment distance measured was 996 m. A peak in sapling density occurred within 50 m from the edge, and there was a general decrease in saplings with increasing distance. Conversely, increase in zero-squares percentages occurred with increasing distance. We argue that inclusion of abundance in assessing spread is necessary to define invasiveness. Based on spread models and prevailing forestry practices we recommend that the establishment of new Sitka spruce plantations within 200 m of protected areas should be avoided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Invasive and Exotic Plants on Forests)

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Open AccessArticle Zoology of Atlas-Groups: Dessins D’enfants, Finite Geometries and Quantum Commutation

by Michel Planat and Hishamuddin Zainuddin

Mathematics 2017, 5(1), 6; doi:10.3390/math5010006 (registering DOI)

Received: 19 September 2016 / Revised: 12 December 2016 / Accepted: 5 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Every finite simple group P can be generated by two of its elements. Pairs of generators for P are available in the Atlas of finite group representations as (not necessarily minimal) permutation representations

P

. It is unusual, but significant to recognize that

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Every finite simple group P can be generated by two of its elements. Pairs of generators for P are available in the Atlas of finite group representations as (not necessarily minimal) permutation representations

P

. It is unusual, but significant to recognize that a

P

is a Grothendieck’s “dessin d’enfant”

D

and that a wealth of standard graphs and finite geometries

G

—such as near polygons and their generalizations—are stabilized by a

D

. In our paper, tripods

P - D - G

of rank larger than two, corresponding to simple groups, are organized into classes, e.g., symplectic, unitary, sporadic, etc. (as in the Atlas). An exhaustive search and characterization of non-trivial point-line configurations defined from small index representations of simple groups is performed, with the goal to recognize their quantum physical significance. All of the defined geometries

G^{'} s

have a contextuality parameter close to its maximal value of one. Full article

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Open AccessArticle Social Pressure and Environmental Effects on Networks: A Path to Cooperation

by María Pereda and Daniele Vilone

Games 2017, 8(1), 7; doi:10.3390/g8010007 (registering DOI)

Received: 29 November 2016 / Revised: 29 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

In this paper, we study how the pro-social impact due to the vigilance by other individuals is conditioned by both environmental and evolutionary effects. To this aim, we consider a known model where agents play a Prisoner’s Dilemma Game (PDG) among themselves and

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In this paper, we study how the pro-social impact due to the vigilance by other individuals is conditioned by both environmental and evolutionary effects. To this aim, we consider a known model where agents play a Prisoner’s Dilemma Game (PDG) among themselves and the pay-off matrix of an individual changes according to the number of neighbors that are “vigilant”, i.e., how many neighbors watch out for her behavior. In particular, the temptation to defect decreases linearly with the number of vigilant neighbors. This model proved to support cooperation in specific conditions, and here we check its robustness with different topologies, microscopical update rules and initial conditions. By means of many numerical simulations and few theoretical considerations, we find in which situations the vigilance by the others is more effective in favoring cooperative behaviors and when its influence is weaker. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evolutionary Games and Statistical Physics of Social Networks)

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Open AccessArticle Barriers to Energy Efficiency in Swedish Non-Energy-Intensive Micro- and Small-Sized Enterprises—A Case Study of a Local Energy Program

by Fredrik Backman

Energies 2017, 10(1), 100; doi:10.3390/en10010100 (registering DOI)

Received: 3 October 2016 / Revised: 2 January 2017 / Accepted: 4 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Improved energy efficiency has become a strategic issue and represents a priority for European competitiveness. Countries adopt various energy policies on local and national levels where energy audit programs are the most common energy end-use efficiency policy for industrial small- and medium-sized enterprises

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Improved energy efficiency has become a strategic issue and represents a priority for European competitiveness. Countries adopt various energy policies on local and national levels where energy audit programs are the most common energy end-use efficiency policy for industrial small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, studies indicate that cost-efficient energy conservation measures are not always implemented, which can be explained by the existence of barriers to energy efficiency. This paper investigates how Swedish municipalities can support local micro- and small-sized enterprises with improved energy efficiency and the existence of different barriers to the implementation of energy efficiency. Relating this empirical case study to the theoretical barriers outlined in the text, this study found that the major explanatory factors related to non-implementation of cost-effective energy efficiency measures among micro- and small-sized industrial enterprises were bounded rationality (lack of time and/or other priorities), split incentives (having other priorities for capital investments), and imperfect information (slim organization and lack of technical skill). This study also found that information in the form of a report was the main thing that companies gained from working on the project “Energy-Driven Business”. Notably, the study involved companies that had participated in a local energy program and, still, companies face major barriers inhibiting implementation, indicating a need to further study other alternative policy models and how knowledge transfer can be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industrial Energy Efficiency)

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Open AccessReview Shared Sulfur Mobilization Routes for tRNA Thiolation and Molybdenum Cofactor Biosynthesis in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

by Silke Leimkühler, Martin Bühning and Lena Beilschmidt

Biomolecules 2017, 7(1), 5; doi:10.3390/biom7010005 (registering DOI)

Received: 8 December 2016 / Revised: 4 January 2017 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Modifications of transfer RNA (tRNA) have been shown to play critical roles in the biogenesis, metabolism, structural stability and function of RNA molecules, and the specific modifications of nucleobases with sulfur atoms in tRNA are present in pro- and eukaryotes. Here, especially the

[...] Read more.

Modifications of transfer RNA (tRNA) have been shown to play critical roles in the biogenesis, metabolism, structural stability and function of RNA molecules, and the specific modifications of nucleobases with sulfur atoms in tRNA are present in pro- and eukaryotes. Here, especially the thiomodifications xm⁵s²U at the wobble position 34 in tRNAs for Lys, Gln and Glu, were suggested to have an important role during the translation process by ensuring accurate deciphering of the genetic code and by stabilization of the tRNA structure. The trafficking and delivery of sulfur nucleosides is a complex process carried out by sulfur relay systems involving numerous proteins, which not only deliver sulfur to the specific tRNAs but also to other sulfur-containing molecules including iron–sulfur clusters, thiamin, biotin, lipoic acid and molybdopterin (MPT). Among the biosynthesis of these sulfur-containing molecules, the biosynthesis of the molybdenum cofactor (Moco) and the synthesis of thio-modified tRNAs in particular show a surprising link by sharing protein components for sulfur mobilization in pro- and eukaryotes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue tRNA Modifications: Synthesis, Function and Beyond)

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Open AccessArticle Hair Growth Promoting and Anticancer Effects of p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) Inhibitors Isolated from Different Parts of Alpinia zerumbet

by Nozomi Taira, Binh Cao Quan Nguyen and Shinkichi Tawata

Molecules 2017, 22(1), 132; doi:10.3390/molecules22010132 (registering DOI)

Received: 5 November 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 8 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1) is an emerging target for the treatment of hair loss (alopecia) and cancer; therefore, the search for PAK1 blockers to treat these PAK1-dependent disorders has received much attention. In this study, we evaluated the anti-alopecia and anticancer effects of

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PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1) is an emerging target for the treatment of hair loss (alopecia) and cancer; therefore, the search for PAK1 blockers to treat these PAK1-dependent disorders has received much attention. In this study, we evaluated the anti-alopecia and anticancer effects of PAK1 inhibitors isolated from Alpinia zerumbet (alpinia) in cell culture. The bioactive compounds isolated from alpinia were found to markedly promote hair cell growth. Kaempferol-3-O-β-d-glucuronide (KOG) and labdadiene, two of the isolated compounds, increased the proliferation of human follicle dermal papilla cells by approximately 117%–180% and 132%–226%, respectively, at 10–100 μM. MTD (2,5-bis(1E,3E,5E)-6-methoxyhexa-1,3,5-trien-1-yl)-2,5-dihydrofuran) and TMOQ ((E)-2,2,3,3-tetramethyl-8-methylene-7-(oct-6-en-1-yl)octahydro-1H-quinolizine) showed growth-promoting activity around 164% and 139% at 10 μM, respectively. The hair cell proliferation induced by these compounds was significantly higher than that of minoxidil, a commercially available treatment for hair loss. Furthermore, the isolated compounds from alpinia exhibited anticancer activity against A549 lung cancer cells with IC₅₀ in the range of 67–99 μM. Regarding the mechanism underlying their action, we hypothesized that the anti-alopecia and anticancer activities of these compounds could be attributed to the inhibition of the oncogenic/aging kinase PAK1. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Kinase Inhibitor Chemistry)

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Open AccessArticle Distributed Demand Side Management with Battery Storage for Smart Home Energy Scheduling

by Omowunmi Mary Longe, Khmaies Ouahada, Suvendi Rimer, Ashot N. Harutyunyan and Hendrik C. Ferreira

Sustainability 2017, 9(1), 120; doi:10.3390/su9010120 (registering DOI)

Received: 17 November 2016 / Revised: 30 December 2016 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

The role of Demand Side Management (DSM) with Distributed Energy Storage (DES) has been gaining attention in recent studies due to the impact of the latter on energy management in the smart grid. In this work, an Energy Scheduling and Distributed Storage (ESDS)

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The role of Demand Side Management (DSM) with Distributed Energy Storage (DES) has been gaining attention in recent studies due to the impact of the latter on energy management in the smart grid. In this work, an Energy Scheduling and Distributed Storage (ESDS) algorithm is proposed to be installed into the smart meters of Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing consumers possessing in-home energy storage devices. Source of energy supply to the smart home appliances was optimized between the utility grid and the DES device depending on energy tariff and consumer demand satisfaction information. This is to minimize consumer energy expenditure and maximize demand satisfaction simultaneously. The ESDS algorithm was found to offer consumer-friendly and utility-friendly enhancements to the DSM program such as energy, financial, and investment savings, reduced/eliminated consumer dissatisfaction even at peak periods, Peak-to-Average-Ratio (PAR) demand reduction, grid energy sustainability, socio-economic benefits, and other associated benefits such as environmental-friendliness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Advent of Smart Homes)

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Open AccessArticle The Impact of Morphological Features on Summer Temperature Variations on the Example of Two Residential Neighborhoods in Ljubljana, Slovenia

by Alenka Fikfak, Saja Kosanović, Miha Konjar, Janez P. Grom and Martina Zbašnik-Senegačnik

Sustainability 2017, 9(1), 122; doi:10.3390/su9010122 (registering DOI)

Received: 28 November 2016 / Revised: 6 January 2017 / Accepted: 12 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

The study conducted in this paper is focused on a predominantly residential area of the City of Ljubljana—Koseze, which is characterized by generally favorable (bio)climatic conditions. Nonetheless, thermal satellite images showed that residential neighborhoods within the Koseze district display unexpected variations in summer

[...] Read more.

The study conducted in this paper is focused on a predominantly residential area of the City of Ljubljana—Koseze, which is characterized by generally favorable (bio)climatic conditions. Nonetheless, thermal satellite images showed that residential neighborhoods within the Koseze district display unexpected variations in summer temperatures. This observation called into question the benefits of existing bioclimatic features and indicated the need to investigate and compare two neighborhoods with similar urban parameters, with the aim to identify morphological differential characteristics impacting urban heat island (UHI) intensity. By applying the study methodology based on a literature review, surveys of key precedents, detailed mapping in two Koseze locations, in situ measurements, observations and recordings, thermal imagery, and the analyses of statistical data, as well as by defining the four main categories of morphological urban parameters—structure, cover, fabric and metabolism, it was concluded that both neighborhoods have common morphological elements mitigating the UHI effect. Additionally, it was found that the neighborhood with higher UHI intensity has several less favorable features, such as busier roads, larger surface of parking corridors, and the existence of underground parking space. The traffic as an element of urban morphology hence represents the main cause of differences among UHI levels in the two Koseze neighborhoods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Heat Island)

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Open AccessArticle Biochars as Potential Adsorbers of CH₄, CO₂ and H₂S

by Sumathi Sethupathi, Ming Zhang, Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha, Sang Ryong Lee, Norhusna Mohamad Nor, Abdul Rahman Mohamed, Mohammad Al-Wabel, Sang Soo Lee and Yong Sik Ok

Sustainability 2017, 9(1), 121; doi:10.3390/su9010121 (registering DOI)

Received: 10 November 2016 / Revised: 23 December 2016 / Accepted: 4 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Methane gas, as one of the major biogases, is a potential source of renewable energy for power production. Biochar can be readily used to purify biogas contaminants such as H₂S and CO₂. This study assessed the adsorption of CH

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Methane gas, as one of the major biogases, is a potential source of renewable energy for power production. Biochar can be readily used to purify biogas contaminants such as H₂S and CO₂. This study assessed the adsorption of CH₄, H₂S, and CO₂ onto four different types of biochars. The adsorption dynamics of biochars were investigated in a fixed-bed column, by determining the breakthrough curves and adsorption capacities of biochars. The physicochemical properties of biochars were considered to justify the adsorption performance. The results showed that CH₄ was not adsorbed well by the subjected biochars whereas CO₂ and H₂S were successfully captured. The H₂S and CO₂ breakthrough capacity were related to both the surface adsorption and chemical reaction. The adsorption capacity was in the following order: perilla > soybean stover > Korean oak > Japanese oak biochars. The simultaneous adsorption also leads to a competition of sorption sites. Biochars are a promising material for the biogas purification industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Management of Post-Epidemic Mass Carcasses Burial Sites)

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Open AccessReview Optical Fibre Sensors Using Graphene-Based Materials: A Review

by Miguel Hernaez, Carlos R. Zamarreño, Sonia Melendi-Espina, Liam R. Bird, Andrew G. Mayes and Francisco J. Arregui

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 155; doi:10.3390/s17010155 (registering DOI)

Received: 30 November 2016 / Revised: 10 January 2017 / Accepted: 12 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Graphene and its derivatives have become the most explored materials since Novoselov and Geim (Nobel Prize winners for Physics in 2010) achieved its isolation in 2004. The exceptional properties of graphene have attracted the attention of the scientific community from different research fields,

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Graphene and its derivatives have become the most explored materials since Novoselov and Geim (Nobel Prize winners for Physics in 2010) achieved its isolation in 2004. The exceptional properties of graphene have attracted the attention of the scientific community from different research fields, generating high impact not only in scientific journals, but also in general-interest newspapers. Optical fibre sensing is one of the many fields that can benefit from the use of these new materials, combining the amazing morphological, chemical, optical and electrical features of graphene with the advantages that optical fibre offers over other sensing strategies. In this document, a review of the current state of the art for optical fibre sensors based on graphene materials is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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Open AccessArticle Fabrication of a Miniature Multi-Parameter Sensor Chip for Water Quality Assessment

by Bo Zhou, Chao Bian, Jianhua Tong and Shanhong Xia

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 157; doi:10.3390/s17010157 (registering DOI)

Received: 17 November 2016 / Revised: 5 January 2017 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Water contamination is a main inducement of human diseases. It is an important step to monitor the water quality in the water distribution system. Due to the features of large size, high cost, and complicated structure of traditional water determination sensors and devices,

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Water contamination is a main inducement of human diseases. It is an important step to monitor the water quality in the water distribution system. Due to the features of large size, high cost, and complicated structure of traditional water determination sensors and devices, it is difficult to realize real-time water monitoring on a large scale. In this paper, we present a multi-parameter sensor chip, which is miniature, low-cost, and robust, to detect the pH, conductivity, and temperature of water simultaneously. The sensor chip was fabricated using micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) techniques. Iridium oxide film was electrodeposited as the pH-sensing material. The atomic ratio of Ir(III) to Ir(IV) is about 1.38 according to the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The pH sensing electrode showed super-Nernstian response (−67.60 mV/pH) and good linearity (R² = 0.9997), in the range of pH 2.22 to pH 11.81. KCl-agar and epoxy were used as the electrolyte layer and liquid junction for the solid-state reference electrode, respectively, and its potential stability in deionized water was 56 h. The conductivity cell exhibited a linear determination range from 21.43

μ S / cm

to 1.99

mS / cm

, and the electrode constant was 1.566 cm⁻¹. Sensitivity of the temperature sensor was 5.46

Ω / ° C

. The results indicate that the developed sensor chip has potential application in water quality measurements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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Open AccessArticle Integrative miRNA-Gene Expression Analysis Enables Refinement of Associated Biology and Prediction of Response to Cetuximab in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer

by Loris De Cecco, Marco Giannoccaro, Edoardo Marchesi, Paolo Bossi, Federica Favales, Laura D. Locati, Lisa Licitra, Silvana Pilotti and Silvana Canevari

Genes 2017, 8(1), 35; doi:10.3390/genes8010035 (registering DOI)

Received: 15 October 2016 / Revised: 22 December 2016 / Accepted: 7 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

This paper documents the process by which we, through gene and miRNA expression profiling of the same samples of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and an integrative miRNA-mRNA expression analysis, were able to identify candidate biomarkers of progression-free survival (PFS) in

[...] Read more.

This paper documents the process by which we, through gene and miRNA expression profiling of the same samples of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and an integrative miRNA-mRNA expression analysis, were able to identify candidate biomarkers of progression-free survival (PFS) in patients treated with cetuximab-based approaches. Through sparse partial least square–discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA) and supervised analysis, 36 miRNAs were identified in two components that clearly separated long- and short-PFS patients. Gene set enrichment analysis identified a significant correlation between the miRNA first-component and EGFR signaling, keratinocyte differentiation, and p53. Another significant correlation was identified between the second component and RAS, NOTCH, immune/inflammatory response, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis pathways. Regularized canonical correlation analysis of sPLS-DA miRNA and gene data combined with the MAGIA2 web-tool highlighted 16 miRNAs and 84 genes that were interconnected in a total of 245 interactions. After feature selection by a smoothed t-statistic support vector machine, we identified three miRNAs and five genes in the miRNA-gene network whose expression result was the most relevant in predicting PFS (Area Under the Curve, AUC = 0.992). Overall, using a well-defined clinical setting and up-to-date bioinformatics tools, we are able to give the proof of principle that an integrative miRNA-mRNA expression could greatly contribute to the refinement of the biology behind a predictive model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue microRNAs and Other Non-Coding RNAs in Human Diseases)

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Open AccessArticle Effect of Short-Term Water Exposure on the Mechanical Properties of Halloysite Nanotube-Multi Layer Graphene Reinforced Polyester Nanocomposites

by Mohd Shahneel Saharudin, Rasheed Atif and Fawad Inam

Polymers 2017, 9(1), 27; doi:10.3390/polym9010027 (registering DOI)

Received: 5 December 2016 / Revised: 4 January 2017 / Accepted: 10 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

The influence of short-term water absorption on the mechanical properties of halloysite nanotubes-multi layer graphene reinforced polyester hybrid nanocomposites has been investigated. The addition of nano-fillers significantly increased the flexural strength, tensile strength, and impact strength in dry and wet conditions. After short-term

[...] Read more.

The influence of short-term water absorption on the mechanical properties of halloysite nanotubes-multi layer graphene reinforced polyester hybrid nanocomposites has been investigated. The addition of nano-fillers significantly increased the flexural strength, tensile strength, and impact strength in dry and wet conditions. After short-term water exposure, the maximum microhardness, tensile, flexural and impact toughness values were observed at 0.1 wt % multi-layer graphene (MLG). The microhardness increased up to 50.3%, tensile strength increased up to 40% and flexural strength increased up to 44%. Compared to dry samples, the fracture toughness and surface roughness of all types of produced nanocomposites were increased that may be attributed to the plasticization effect. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the main failure mechanism is caused by the weakening of the nano-filler-matrix interface induced by water absorption. It was further observed that synergistic effects were not effective at a concentration of 0.1 wt % to produce considerable improvement in the mechanical properties of the produced hybrid nanocomposites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hybrid Polymeric Materials)

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Open AccessArticle Application of Fault Tree Analysis and Fuzzy Neural Networks to Fault Diagnosis in the Internet of Things (IoT) for Aquaculture

by Yingyi Chen, Zhumi Zhen, Huihui Yu and Jing Xu

Sensors 2017, 17(1), 153; doi:10.3390/s17010153 (registering DOI)

Received: 3 November 2016 / Revised: 18 December 2016 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

In the Internet of Things (IoT) equipment used for aquaculture is often deployed in outdoor ponds located in remote areas. Faults occur frequently in these tough environments and the staff generally lack professional knowledge and pay a low degree of attention in these

[...] Read more.

In the Internet of Things (IoT) equipment used for aquaculture is often deployed in outdoor ponds located in remote areas. Faults occur frequently in these tough environments and the staff generally lack professional knowledge and pay a low degree of attention in these areas. Once faults happen, expert personnel must carry out maintenance outdoors. Therefore, this study presents an intelligent method for fault diagnosis based on fault tree analysis and a fuzzy neural network. In the proposed method, first, the fault tree presents a logic structure of fault symptoms and faults. Second, rules extracted from the fault trees avoid duplicate and redundancy. Third, the fuzzy neural network is applied to train the relationship mapping between fault symptoms and faults. In the aquaculture IoT, one fault can cause various fault symptoms, and one symptom can be caused by a variety of faults. Four fault relationships are obtained. Results show that one symptom-to-one fault, two symptoms-to-two faults, and two symptoms-to-one fault relationships can be rapidly diagnosed with high precision, while one symptom-to-two faults patterns perform not so well, but are still worth researching. This model implements diagnosis for most kinds of faults in the aquaculture IoT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Identification, Information & Knowledge in the Internet of Things)

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Open AccessReview Tumor Microenvironment Modulation via Gold Nanoparticles Targeting Malicious Exosomes: Implications for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapy

by Catarina Roma-Rodrigues, Luís R. Raposo, Rita Cabral, Fabiana Paradinha, Pedro V. Baptista and Alexandra R. Fernandes

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(1), 162; doi:10.3390/ijms18010162 (registering DOI)

Received: 27 November 2016 / Revised: 3 January 2017 / Accepted: 9 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Exosomes are nanovesicles formed in the endosomal pathway with an important role in paracrine and autocrine cell communication. Exosomes secreted by cancer cells, malicious exosomes, have important roles in tumor microenvironment maturation and cancer progression. The knowledge of the role of exosomes in

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Exosomes are nanovesicles formed in the endosomal pathway with an important role in paracrine and autocrine cell communication. Exosomes secreted by cancer cells, malicious exosomes, have important roles in tumor microenvironment maturation and cancer progression. The knowledge of the role of exosomes in tumorigenesis prompted a new era in cancer diagnostics and therapy, taking advantage of the use of circulating exosomes as tumor biomarkers due to their stability in body fluids and targeting malignant exosomes’ release and/or uptake to inhibit or delay tumor development. In recent years, nanotechnology has paved the way for the development of a plethora of new diagnostic and therapeutic platforms, fostering theranostics. The unique physical and chemical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) make them suitable vehicles to pursuit this goal. AuNPs’ properties such as ease of synthesis with the desired shape and size, high surface:volume ratio, and the possibility of engineering their surface as desired, potentiate AuNPs’ role in nanotheranostics, allowing the use of the same formulation for exosome detection and restraining the effect of malicious exosomes in cancer progression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tumor Microenvironment and Metabolism)

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Open AccessArticle A Fault Detection and Data Reconciliation Algorithm in Technical Processes with the Help of Haar Wavelets Packets

by Paolo Mercorelli

Algorithms 2017, 10(1), 13; doi:10.3390/a10010013 (registering DOI)

Received: 30 September 2016 / Revised: 17 December 2016 / Accepted: 7 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

This article is focused on the detection of errors using an approach that is signal based. The proposed algorithm considers several criteria: soft, hard and very hard recognition error. After the recognition of the error, the error is replaced. In this sense, different

[...] Read more.

This article is focused on the detection of errors using an approach that is signal based. The proposed algorithm considers several criteria: soft, hard and very hard recognition error. After the recognition of the error, the error is replaced. In this sense, different strategies for data reconciliation are associated with the proposed criteria error detection. Algorithms in several industrial software platforms are used for detecting errors of sensors. Computer simulations confirm the validation of the presented applications. Results with actual sensor measurements in industrial processes are presented. Full article

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Open AccessArticle Applying Human ADAR1p110 and ADAR1p150 for Site-Directed RNA Editing—G/C Substitution Stabilizes GuideRNAs against Editing

by Madeleine Heep, Pia Mach, Philipp Reautschnig, Jacqueline Wettengel and Thorsten Stafforst

Genes 2017, 8(1), 34; doi:10.3390/genes8010034 (registering DOI)

Received: 25 November 2016 / Revised: 23 December 2016 / Accepted: 6 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Site-directed RNA editing is an approach to reprogram genetic information at the RNA level. We recently introduced a novel guideRNA that allows for the recruitment of human ADAR2 to manipulate genetic information. Here, we show that the current guideRNA design is already able

[...] Read more.

Site-directed RNA editing is an approach to reprogram genetic information at the RNA level. We recently introduced a novel guideRNA that allows for the recruitment of human ADAR2 to manipulate genetic information. Here, we show that the current guideRNA design is already able to recruit another human deaminase, ADAR1, in both isoforms, p110 and p150. However, further optimization seems necessary as the current design is less efficient for ADAR1 isoforms. Furthermore, we describe hotspots at which the guideRNA itself is edited and show a way to circumvent this auto-editing without losing editing efficiency at the target. Both findings are important for the advancement of site-directed RNA editing as a tool in basic biology or as a platform for therapeutic editing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue RNA Editing)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle Retailers’ Responsibility towards Consumers and Key Drivers of Their Development in Poland

by Grażyna Śmigielska and Renata Oczkowska

Adm. Sci. 2017, 7(1), 3; doi:10.3390/admsci7010003 (registering DOI)

Received: 15 October 2016 / Revised: 21 December 2016 / Accepted: 11 January 2017 / Published: 14 January 2017

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Abstract

Multinational retailers are now very powerful and their activities could influence whole economies. In this paper, we investigate why they engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices towards consumers, how it fosters sustainable development, and what the role of institutions are in the

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Multinational retailers are now very powerful and their activities could influence whole economies. In this paper, we investigate why they engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices towards consumers, how it fosters sustainable development, and what the role of institutions are in the process of developing CSR strategies. Changes that have taken place in Poland since 1989, when the transition process into a market economy started, constituted an excellent research field due to the fact that the retail market was not saturated at the beginning, consumers were only slightly protected by the law, and there were no institutions promoting the implementation of social responsibility standards by companies. Research involving analysis of secondary data drawn from retailers’ websites, CSR reports, and published data relating to the CSR institutions allowed the following: (1) identification of three stages of development in consumers’ conception of CSR characterized by the immoral, amoral, and moral management; (2) showing that these activities have a business case; and (3) explaining the role of institutions and competition in this process. It is also shown how multinational retailers could contribute to the sustainable development of less mature markets in which they invest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Issues in Marketing)

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