Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Statistical Fatigue Investigation and Failure Prediction of a Healable Composite System

Fiber reinforced polymers are massively used as an alternative to metals in structural applications. The brittle nature of their matrix, however, makes them more susceptible to crack formation and propagation resulting in costly repair operations and increased environmental impact. Intrinsic healable composites provide a good alternative to these conventional composite materials, whereas their mechanical properties in static solicitation or impact testing are well documented, only few studies address fatigue testing. This research focuses on 3-point bending fatigue tests of polymer-blend based healable E-glass composite materials. The S–N curve was first built to compare the fatigue behavior of the healable system to a conventional epoxy composite. A statistical approach based on Weibull statistics was developed to predict the failure probability as a function of the applied stress amplitude, to compare both systems at equivalent probability of failure. The healable system showed a higher fatigue resistance at high cycle fatigue. Furthermore, a full stiffness recovery was obtained and a life extension of at least five times compared to the reference system when healed after reaching a 90% chance of survival. The healable system thus opens new perspectives for more sustainable load-bearing composites.
COUPLED DAMAGE-PLASTICITY BASED CONSTITUTIVE MODELING OF METALLIC MEMBRANE ELEMENT UNDER CYCLIC LOADING

Micromechanics is employed in order to define the whole nonlinear inelastic behavior of a structure at meso/macro scale level where the presence of the inelastic phenomena (plasticity and/or damage) affects the material constitutive response depending on the loading conditions. This concept is important in the design of civil and mechanical engineering applications. This study illustrates a comprehensive theoretical formulation for a coupled damage-plasticity model and its numerical implementation under an extreme loading type such as an earthquake, which causes cyclic response and can lead to failure. Irreversible plastic deformation by plasticity, elastic response modification by the damage and the cyclic accumulation of deformation are modeled. A couple of numerical examples are presented in order to show the capability and efficiency of the proposed model for 2D membrane element, by using the operator split methodology. B. Ayhan Tezer, P. Jehel, A. Ibrahimbegovic and H. Engin 2
Modulation of intestinal transport of nutrients following dietary exposure to Fusarium mycotoxins in broiler chickens

1) Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium 2) Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium 3) Biomin Research Center, Technopark 1, 3430 Tulln, Austria 4) Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, 3150 Litton Reaves Hall, Blacksburg 24061, Virginia, United States of America
Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Disease in the California Teachers Study Cohort

There are few studies examining associations between long-term exposure to air pollution and adverse health outcomes. In an ongoing cohort study of over 100,000 female participants in the California Teachers Study (CTS), we developed estimates of long-term air pollution exposure at the subjects' residences and examined associations between these exposure estimates and the following health outcomes: total mortality, cardiopulmonary mortality, and incidence ofboth fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and stroke. In addition, we examined the potential impacts of several traffic metrics on these outcomes. In order to derive the pollutant exposure metrics, the CTS participants' addresses were linked with monthly estimates oflong-term exposure to multiple air pollutants, including PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter), PMJ0, and several gases (including ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (N02), and others). The addresses were linked as well with several cross-sectional measures of traffic-related exposures from the year 2000 or later. We analyzed these relationships while adjusting for many individual-level and neighborhood variables, and undertook a variety of sensitivity analyses. We found strong and consistent associations of PM2.5 not only with total and cardiopulmonary mortality, but also with the incidence of heart attacks and stroke. We also identified somewhat less consistent relationships between one or more of these adverse outcomes and PMJ0, CO, N02 and ozone. Most of the traffic metrics were not associated with these outcomes. This study provides additional evidence that long-tenn exposure to air pollution is associated with mortality, and demonstrates as well that exposure to several combustion-related pollutants is associated with the incidence of new cases of heart attacks and stroke.
Reef Cover: a coral reef classification to guide global habitat mapping from remote sensing

Coral reef management and conservation stand to benefit from improved high-resolution global mapping. Yet classifications employed in large-scale reef mapping to date are typically poorly defined, not shared or region-specific. Here we present Reef Cover, a new coral reef geomorphic zone classification, developed to support global-scale coral reef habitat mapping in a transparent and version-based framework. We developed scalable classes by focusing on attributes that can be observed remotely, but whose membership rules also reflect knowledge of reef formation, growth and functioning. Bridging the divide between earth observation data and geo-ecological knowledge of reefs, Reef Cover maximises the trade-off between applicability at global scales, and relevance and accuracy at local scales. We use the Caroline and Mariana Island chains in the Pacific as a case study to demonstrate use of the classification scheme and its scientific and conservation applications. The primary application of Reef Cover is the Allen Coral Atlas global coral reef mapping project, but the system will support bespoke reef mapping conducted at a variety of spatial scales.
Visual perceptual learning generalizes to untrained effectors

Visual perceptual learning (VPL) is an improvement in visual function following training. Although the practical utility of VPL was once thought to be limited by its specificity to the precise stimuli used during training, more recent work has shown that such specificity can be overcome with appropriate training protocols. In contrast, relatively little is known about the extent to which VPL exhibits motor specificity. Indeed, previous studies have shown that training paradigms that require one type of response (e.g., a button press) do not necessarily transfer to those that require a different response (e.g., a mouse movement). In this work, we have examined the effector specificity of VPL by training observers on tasks that maintain the same visual stimuli and task structure, but that require different effectors to indicate the response. We find that, in these conditions, VPL transfers fully between manual and oculomotor responses. These results are consistent with the idea that VPL entails the learning of a decision rule that can generalize across effectors.
Frequency-Resolved Functional Connectivity: Role of Delay and the Strength of Connections

The brain functional network extracted from the BOLD signals reveals the correlated activity of the different brain regions, which is hypothesized to underlie the integration of the information across functionally specialized areas. Functional networks are not static and change over time and in different brain states, enabling the nervous system to engage and disengage different local areas in specific tasks on demand. Due to the low temporal resolution, however, BOLD signals do not allow the exploration of spectral properties of the brain dynamics over different frequency bands which are known to be important in cognitive processes. Recent studies using imaging tools with a high temporal resolution has made it possible to explore the correlation between the regions at multiple frequency bands. These studies introduce the frequency as a new dimension over which the functional networks change, enabling brain networks to transmit multiplex of information at any time. In this computational study, we explore the functional connectivity at different frequency ranges and highlight the role of the distance between the nodes in their correlation. We run the generalized Kuramoto model with delayed interactions on top of the brain’s connectome and show that how the transmission delay and the strength of the connections, affect the correlation between the pair of nodes over different frequency bands.
Evolution of research in biomedical sciences - a network-based characterization based on PubMed

The rapid growth of scientific publications every year makes it infeasible to keep pace with and survey manually, even for a specific field. Keeping up with literature and gaining a birds-eye view in a timely manner is crucial to the pursuit of scientific discovery and innovation. To help gain a clearer understanding of the state and progress of science and the nature of discovery, one can encode key information from these publications and represent them as a network. Observations on the structural evolution of these graphs can offer valuable insights on the dynamics at play. This work describes the construction and analyses the temporal evolution of a knowledge network of keywords (specifically focusing on genes/proteins, diseases and chemicals) from publications in the biomedical sciences domain. We compare and contrast the representations and evolution of these keyword networks types and find significant differences in the network growth, largely corresponding to our intuition. Furthermore, we focus on the formation and evolution of new links, which we argue corresponds to new scientific discoveries. Our findings suggest that these links are progressively formed in short network distance, leading to clusters of extensively studied keywords. This strategy, however, seems to impede ground-breaking innovation, which could be beneficial for research progress.
Spatial organization enhances versatility and specificity in cyclic di-GMP signaling

Abstract The second messenger cyclic di-GMP regulates a variety of processes in bacteria, many of which are centered around the decision whether to adopt a sessile or a motile life style. Regulatory circuits include pathogenicity, biofilm formation, and motility in a wide variety of bacteria, and play a key role in cell cycle progression in Caulobacter crescentus. Interestingly, multiple, seemingly independent c-di-GMP pathways have been found in several species, where deletions of individual c-di-GMP synthetases (DGCs) or hydrolases (PDEs) have resulted in distinct phenotypes that would not be expected based on a freely diffusible second messenger. Several recent studies have shown that individual signaling nodes exist, and additionally, that protein/protein interactions between DGCs, PDEs and c-di-GMP receptors play an important role in signaling specificity. Additionally, subcellular clustering has been shown to be employed by bacteria to likely generate local signaling of second messenger, and/or to increase signaling specificity. This review highlights recent findings that reveal how bacteria employ spatial cues to increase the versatility of second messenger signaling.
Factors affecting faecal bile acid concentrations: effects of fat and fibre

The risk of developing CRC is associated with the consumption of a high-risk diet containing elevated levels of animal fat or protein and low levels of fibre (Thompson & Hill, 1982). Although such a diet contains known carcinogens and tumour promotors, similar compounds are also present in low-risk diets. Therefore no specific risk has been attached to the consumption of biologically active substrates. Although no known carcinogens, with the exception of N-nitrosamines (Thompson & Hill, 1982), have been reliably detected in faeces, it has been hypothesized that they may be synthesized insitu via the bacterial activation of inert substrates. In particular, it has been postulated that FBA, some of which are known tumour promotors, and their metabolites may influence the development of CRC. In some studies, high-risk populations, high-risk individuals and cancer subjects have been shown to excrete higher concentrations of FBA when compared with controls (Thompson & Hill, 1982). Furthermore, faecal organisms can convert bile acids in vitro to carcinogen-like substrates (Thompson & Hill, 1982). Recently developed methods of extraction and fractionation of faecal steroids (Owen et al., 1984a) have permitted the reliable extraction and quantification of individual bile acids, and have revealed that the relative proportions of LCA to DCA may be an additional marker of risk (Owen et al., 19846). We report here the application of these techniques to determine the effect of varying two of the dietary risk factors, namely fat or fibre, on the FBA profile. In the fat study, six volunteers consumed a defined basal diet for two consecutive 4 week periods, as previously described (Cummings et al., 1978a), in which the fat content was either 62g/day (low, cholesterol 486mg/day) or 152g/day (high, cholesterol 732mg/day). Dietary data were collated for the week before and after the diet study, during which the volunteers consumed their normal diet (average fat intake 1 IOg/day). In the fibre study, groups of volunteers consumed a defined basal diet for 3 weeks, followed, after a suitable interval, by a further 3 week period in which a daily fibre supplement of 20g/day was added. This consisted of guar gum or concentrated fibre preparations derived from solvent-extracted wheat bran, cabbage, carrot or apple, as previously described (Cummings et al., 19786). Stools were collected throughout both studies, combined into 7 day collections, homogenized and freeze-dried, and portions from the last week of each dietary period assayed (Table 1). Despite considerable inter-individual differences, consistent diet-related trends in FBA concentrations were observed. Increasing fat consumption either from the low or normal levels were generally associated with an increase in FBA concentration, mainly as an increase in DCA loss. In contrast, transferring to a low-fat-content diet was not
Selective fruit abscission by Juniperus monosperma as an induced defense against predators

-Abscised fruits of Juniperus mQnQsperma were more likely to contain predator larvae than were undamaged fruits. Larvae in abscised fruits were more likely to die than larvae in fruits still attached to the tree. Selective abscission of damaged fruits is viewed as an adaptive plant defense for two reasons: (1) abscission reduces the plant's losses by terminating any further investment into a doomed propagule; (2) abscission may reduce the number of fruit predators that mature to attack future fruit crops.
Notes on the genus Celotes, with the description of a new species from Mexico (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae: Pyrginae: Pyrgini)

A new species of Celotes is described from central Mexico, bringing the total number of species in this genus to three. The new Celotes is larger and darker than its two congeners, and is immediately distinguished from them by a combination of a very long and curved projection from the valva, broad valvae, terminally narrowing less massive harpe, smaller tegumen and narrower uncus. These abundantly distinct genitalic characters, together with whitish, but rounded, scales on the dorsal surface of the male metathoracic pouch strongly argue for the species-level recognition of this seemingly allopatric Celotes phenotype.
Cytogeography of Claytonia virginica and Its Allies

On the basis of chromosome numbers from more than 1,000 individuals of Claytonia virginica L. (Portulacaceae) throughout its range, a complex evolution of major cytotypes is discussed in relation to distribution and morphology. Chromosomal diversity is thought to have evolved from a base of n 6 by hyperaneuploidy to n 7 and 8 with each race giving rise to widespread and dominant primary tetraploids (n 12, 14, 16). These in turn, and largely by hypoaneuploidy, formed many secondary tetraploid races, the most significant of which are n = 11 and 15. Higher polyploids from 6x to 12x where x = 6, and 6x and 8x where x = 7 are also discussed. Infraspecific phylogeny is compared with data for two allied species, C. caroliniana Michx. and C. lanceolata Pursh, which show striking parallels with C. virginica in chromosomal evolution. By one morphological character, leaf width, the cytotypes separate into two groups, not along diploid vs. polypoid lines, but rather a narrow-leafed var. acutiflora DC. with n = 6, 7, 12? , and 14? and a broad-leafed var. virginica with n = 8 and 16? From collections made throughout eastern North America over 1,000 plants of Claytonia virginica L. (Portulacaceae) have been examined chromosomally. With the exception of Rothwell (1959) earlier studies have been limited in scope although all have made a substantial contribution to a cytogeographic understanding of the species (Bell, 1965; Davis & Bowmer, 1966; Lewis, 1959, 1962, 1967; Lewis et al., 1962, 1967; Rothwell & Kump, 1965). While these studies illustrated a wide diversity of chromosome number for C. virginica (2n12 to ca 191) none was extensive enough to indicate total distribution of all major cytotypes; rather only for a few from very limited areas, viz. dominance of x 7 in eastern Texas (Lewis, 1962), x = 8 in Indiana (Rothwell, 1959), and n= 12 and 15 in the St. Louis, Missouri area (Lewis et al., 1967). We shall attempt with our additional data to present the distribution of cytotypes occuring in the eastern half of the continent and to suggest their probable evolution. Cytogeography and evolution of C. virginica will be compared with several allied species as well as briefly with the primitive species of Claytonia. In addition gross morphological diversity will be correlated with the various cytotypes and discussed in relation to distribution. Cytological procedures followed those of Lewis (1962) and voucher specimens for each population were collected and are housed in the Missouri Botanical Garden herbarium (MO). 'Senior Fellow and Research Associates, Center for the Biology of Natural Systems, supported by Public Health Grant No. 1 P10 ES 00139-01 ERT. ANN. MISSOURI BOT. GARD. 54(2): 153-171, 1967. This content downloaded from 207.46. 13.113 on Wed, 05 Oct 2016 04:20:10 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor. org/terms [VOL. 54 154 ANNALS OF THE MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN
Relationship Between Polymorphisms of CSN3,CSN1S2 and β-lg Genes and Litter Sizes of Xinong Saanen Dairy Goat

In this paper,PCR-RFLP technique was firstly adopted to analyze the association of polymorphisms of CSN3,CSN1S2 and beta-lactoglobulin genes with litter sizes of 69 Xinong Saanen dairy goats.The results revealed that there was a statistical significant relationship between CSN3-TaqI locus and litter sizes (P 0.05). For example,the first birth litter size of individuals with genotype TC were more than those of individuals with genotype CC (P 0.01),while the second birth litter size of individuals with genotype CC were more than those of individuals with genotype TC (P 0.05). Moreover,the results showed that no statistical significant difference between CSN3-HindIII locus and litter sizes was found (P 0.05). However,there was significant relationship between CSN1S2-Alw26I locus and litter sizes.For instance,the first birth litter sizes of individuals with genotype NF more than those of genotype NN (P 0.05),while the fourth birth litter sizes of individuals with genotype NF was less than those of genotype NN (P 0.01). No significant correlation between beta-lactoglobulin gene and litter sizes was observed in this experiment.Based on these results,it was indicated that CSN3 and CSN1S2 gene had significant positive effects on litter sizes of dairy goats.So it is primitively presumed that casein gene such as CSN3,CSN1S2 gene and FecB gene probably might be linked,which would well explain the gene effects of CSN3 and CSN1S2 gene on litter sizes.Additionally,CSN3 and CSN1S2 gene can be regarded as effective molecular markers on MAS program for litter size of dairy goat.
An update on the genetics of polycystic ovary syndrome: progress and future directions.

Abstract The field of the genetics of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has relatively recently moved into the era of genome-wide association studies. This has led to the discovery of 16 robust loci for PCOS. Some loci contain genes with clear roles in reproductive (LHCGR, FSHR, and FSHB) and metabolic (INSR and HMGA2) dysfunction in the syndrome. The next challenge facing the field is the identification of causal variants and genes and the role they play in PCOS pathophysiology. The potential for gene discovery to improve diagnosis and treatment of PCOS is promising, though there is much to be done in the field before the current findings can be translated to the clinic.
Comparison of Weed Suppression and Mandarin Fruit Yield and Quality Obtained with Organic Mulches, Synthetic Mulches, Cultivation, and Glyphosate

Organic crop production, whether for export or local consumption, is increasing to avoid the residual effects of synthetic herbicides in foods, soil, and water, toxicity to other nontarget organisms, and herbicide-resistant weed populations. Organic farmers consistently ranked weed management as one of their most important production problems. Therefore, a 2-year study was conducted under 15-year-old mandarin trees to compare the effects of rice straw mulch, cattail mulch, black plastic mulch, hand hoeing, cultivation, glyphosate, and unweeded control treatments on weed control, fruit yield, and fruit quality. The greatest control (94%-100%) of weeds occurred with the plastic mulch (200 or 150 μm) and three mulch layers of rice straw or cattail. Covering soil with cattail or rice straw mulch (two layers) gave 85% to 98% control of weeds. Uncontrolled weeds in the weedy control caused significant reduction in yield and fruit quality and decreased the yield/tree by 62% compared with hand hoe treatment. Plastic mulches of 200 and 150 μm, cattail (Cyprus articulatus L.) mulch (two or three layers) and two mulch layers of rice (Oryza sativa L.) straw treatments significantly increased the fruit yield/tree by 24%, 18%, 20%, 11%, and 12% more than cultivation treatment, respectively, without significant differences among these superior treatments. Soil mulching with three layers of rice straw, cultivation, glyphosate, and 80-μm plastic mulch treatments caused a significant reduction in weed density and weed biomass, but gave lower yield than superior treatments. Total soluble solids of fruits was unaffected by any of the weed management strategies, whereas values of total acidity and vitamin C were significantly lower in the unwedded control than most weeded treatments. These results demonstrate that two layers of cattail or rice straw mulch could be used effectively for controlling weeds in citrus groves. Their effectiveness in controlling weeds may increase their use in agriculture systems with a concomitant decrease in the need for synthetic herbicides. Further studies are needed to evaluate their side effects on beneficial organisms, diseases, and insects.