bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of smartphone screens using numerical analysis
Authors: Magomedov I A
Published: January 2020

This work is focused on investigating smartphone screens using numerical analysis. Two smartphone screens are presented in this work for comparison. Apple and Samsung products will be analyzed, which are Sapphire and Gorilla Glass respectively. Extended finite element method and cohesive zone model for numerical analysis will be used. Software packages of Ansys, Code-aster and Salome Meca were used in this work for analysis to initiate and propagate crack in chosen structure. Brief introduction and literature review of the problem also presented in this work. To gather results for numerical analysis two different structure was build in software Ansys. Wedge shaped structure was built and analyzed to gather results of deformation. First analysis was done by using material properties of Gorilla Glass and second applying material properties of Sapphire. The results illustrated that Samsung product Gorilla Glass is more deformed if to be compared with Sapphire. Then a square shaped structure was created and was tested on fracture. Two different values were used to fracture the structure. The results showed that it is harder to fracture Sapphire than Gorilla Glass. Lastly crack propagation was analyzed. It was found that Gorilla Glass has less propagation than Sapphire.
Control system for a process of fermentation unit based on a fuzzy controller
Authors: Muravyova E A , Abdrafikova F F
Published: January 2020

We have developed control system for a fermentation unit process based on a fuzzy controller. The objects under control are fermentation tanks located at “Bashspirt” Joint-Stock Company. The process of saccharifiedwort fermentation is carried out by yeast. The task was to improve the process of fermentation of saccharifiedwort by yeast and replace the outdated control system with a newer and more modern one. In this regard, a fuzzy controller system has been designed to control the process of fermentation unit capable of controlling the following twelve output parameters: valve position for supplying wort to six fermentation tanks and for supplying yeast to six fermentation tanks. Twelve control output parameters control the following seven input parameters: the fill level of the prefermenter, the fill level of six fermentation tanks. The output parameters are controlled on the base of the information obtained from the wort and yeast input level sensors. The introduction of an automatic control system that takes into account the basic parameters of a multi-connected object and is capable of controlling the entire process of the fermentation unit allowed to solve the following problem: stabilization of the input parameters and the output process parameters control.
Management of mechanisms ensuring sustainable functioning and economic development of the electric power complex
Authors: Gibadullin A A , Kerimova Ch V , Chorshanbiev S R , Shmanev S V , Romanova Ju A , Sozontov A A
Published: January 2020

The study is dedicated to ensuring sustainable functioning and economic development of the electric power complex. The article analyzes the impact of the fuel and energy complex on the economy of the Russian Federation. The paper presents the stages of the formation of the electric power industry, which ensures the functioning of industrial production and the vital activity of mankind. The study proved that the electric power complex is a capital-intensive industry and is connected by a single technological process. Of course, in order to maintain the stability and efficiency of the industry, it is necessary to ensure the management of the stable functioning and economic development of the electric power complex. The study analyzed the definitions of stability, which contain a set of indicators containing both technical and technological parameters, and economic. Based on the results of the study, factors were formulated that affect the sustainable functioning and economic development of the electric power complex. In conclusion, the study presents the main findings and results of the work.
Automated systems of ecological control in Norilsk
Authors: Karmanovskaya N V , Smirnova A T , Litovchenko V I , Efa S G
Published: January 2020

Nowadays the problems associated with the implementation of environmental control in the Russian Federation are becoming increasingly relevant. Unfortunately, there are a lot of reasons why our country cannot boast of success in resolving issues that could positively affect the preservation of a favorable environment. The problem of automated systems of ecological control in Norilsk is considered in this article. Models of production and public control of the atmosphere are described. The model aimed at the implementation of the constitutional rights of each citizen to reliable information on the state of the environment is proposed. Environmental education acts as a tool for the implementation of the law, an integral part of which is environmental information.
Influence of cutting edge of lamellar knives on the efficiency of work when cutting food semi-finished products
Authors: Urinov Nasullo , Abrorov Akbar , Abdullayva Dilnavoz , Amonov Mahmud
Published: January 2020

The article discusses the problems of improving the functional quality of lamellar knives by such key indicators as cutting ability and blade resistance.
Resource of repaired welded compounds of marine oil and gas structures
Authors: Starokon I V
Published: January 2020

The article deals with the assessment about service life of welds for offshore oil and gas facilities. Research covered offshore fixed platforms (OFP) of the core type. It is noted that to date, any studies have not been undertaken on the service life of reconditioned (repaired) OFP welds. Through specialized software systems StructureCAD and SolidWorks, models of offshore platforms were built and maximum amplitudes of alternating stresses acting in welds in the Black Sea were established. As results of the tests and processing observed data, the endurance limits of the repaired welds were calculated, which amounted to approximately 13 MPa (1885.49 psi). We also obtained characteristic points of the dependence of the number of cycles to failure N on the values of the amplitude of the alternating stresses σa. The experiment made it possible to create fatigue diagrams for restored welds of offshore fixed platforms. Using the example of a T-type welded joint, it was shown that the service life of a restored weld is much lower than the service life of a new one.
Application of hydrogen and hydrogen-containing gases in internal combustion engines
Authors: Afanasiev A N , Pavlov D A , Epishkin V E , Gapchenko U A
Published: January 2020

The results of studies of the influence of hydrogen and hydrogen-containing gas additives on the parameters of various types of internal combustion engines are analyzed and summarized. It made possible to identify the features of the effect on the combustion of fuel during internal combustion engine operation at partial loads. The dependences of reducing the toxicity and fuel consumption of internal combustion engine on the amount of addition of hydrogen and a hydrogen-containing gas to the air-fuel mixture were obtained. It allowed to establish quantitative effects of free hydrogen, in particular, to quantify the region of small hydrogen additives and the conditions under which hydrogen exhibits the qualities of a chemically active component of the mixture.
Robotic power line maintenance systems
Authors: Solyonyj S V , Shishlakov V F , Solenaya O Ya , Kuzmenko V P , Kvas E S , Rysin A V
Published: January 2020

When transmitting electricity over long distances, overhead power lines are used. When servicing the lines, brigades of workers performing manual inspection are used. This collection of information is not efficient and time-consuming, since it is possible to identify only those problems that a person can see. Problems such as the destruction of insulators, the slope of the poles of power lines, a small layer of icing will remain unnoticed and will lead to serious consequences, such as a break in power lines and falling poles. If the lines are broken and the supports fall, the repair team will have to drive the entire section of the power transmission line from start to break, if the terrain allows you to use ground transportation. Provided that some lines can stretch for hundreds of kilometers - troubleshooting can stretch for several hours or even days. The use of robotic systems will prevent such accidents, and in case of their occurrence due to force majeure circumstances, speed up the search and repair. The likelihood of electric shock will also be reduced.
Power supply with increased specific energy intensity based on hydrogen fuel cells for unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Vasyukov I V , Pavlenko A V , Gummel A A , Puzin V S , Faddeev N A
Published: January 2020

The structure of a power source based on hydrogen fuel cells for an unmanned aerial vehicle is described in this article. A functional diagram of the power plant is presented. The method for calculating the power part of a step-down voltage converter is proposed. The idea of improving the accuracy of optimization of power plants by flight time of the unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) is proposed. Design features and the operating algorithm of an experimental source with a specific energy consumption of 529.3 W * h / kg are described
Biofuel based on methanol and methyl ester of rapeseed oil for diesel engine
Authors: Likhanov V A , Lopatin O P , Yurlov A S
Published: January 2020

In order to improve the environmental performance of diesel engines, the use of renewable energy sources such as biofuels is justified. The factors influencing the processes of fuel combustion and issues allowing to properly provide the necessary conditions for the combustion of biofuels in the combustion chamber of diesel are considered. As a result of experimental studies developed biofuel for diesel engine consisting of methanol and methyl ester of rapeseed oil. Experimental studies of the efficiency and environmental performance of the diesel engine on this biofuel have been carried out.
DEA method application to evaluating the efficiency of heat and wind generating complexes
Authors: Zenyutkin N V , Kovalev I V , Karaseva M V , Dvirny V V , Melkomukov A A , Lukonin N V
Published: January 2020

The article considers the thermal power enterprises’ impact on the ecology of Krasnoyarsk Krai. It gives the characteristic of the general state in the region’s heat power industry taking into account problems of providing heat to remote communities. A heat and wind generating complex is considered as an alternative thermal energy source. The problem of calculating the efficiency of such complexes is introduced. The DEA method based on the calculation of the boundary performance is treated. The input and output parameters of modern heat and wind generating complexes are described. The DEA method modernization based on the adjustment factors generation is justified.
Green synthesis of cobalt oxide nanoparticles for potential biological applications
Authors: Hafeez Muhammad , Shaheen Ruzma , Akram Bilal , Zain-ul-Abdin  , Haq Sirajul , Mahsud Salahudin , Ali Shaukat , Khan Rizwan Taj
Published: January 2020

Cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4-Nps) have many applications and now a days the green methods of synthesis of these NPs are preferred over other methods because of associated benefits. In this study, Co3O4-Nps were synthesized by using leaves extract of Populus ciliata (safaida) and cobalt nitrate hexa hydrate as a source of cobalt. The synthesized NPs were analyzed by different techniques such as fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial activities of the synthesized Co3O4-Nps were evaluated against gram negative and gram positive bacteria and found active against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebseilla pneumonia (K. pneumonia), Bacillus subtillus (B.subtillus) and Bacillus lichenifermia (B. lichenifermia). The activity results were analyzed statistically by one-way ANOVA, with ‘Dunnett’s Multiple Comparison Test’. The maximum mean activity (21.8 ± 0.7) was found for B. subtilis and minimum mean activity (14.0 ± 0.6) was observed for E. coli.
Influence of strain rate on microstructures and mechanical properties of 2524Al alloy fabricated by a novel large strain rolling
Authors: Feng Xvhui , Sun Youping , Zhou Sipeng , He Jiangmei
Published: January 2020

2524Al alloy sheets with excellent strength-ductility balance were successfully fabricated by large strain rolling in a strain rate range from 5 s−1 to 20 s−1 at 400 °C. The microstructural evolution, mechanical properties and fracture mechanism of the as-rolled sheets were investigated. The results show that there are numerous coarse precipitates of Al2CuMg and Al2Cu along the dendrite grain boundaries for as-cast 2524Al alloy. Most of the precipitates disappear after homogenizing annealing treatment. Grain refining plays a key role in the as-rolled microstructural evolution and the mechanical properties. The dendrite grain were broken and become streamline structure after rolled. The sheet fabricated at 10 s−1 exhibits a higher strength and excellent ductility, with the ultimate tensile strength and elongation of 611MPa and 10.5%, respectively.
Effect of La/Nd ratio on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast AZ91-xLa/Nd alloy
Authors: Cui Pengxing , Hu Maoliang , Ji Zesheng , Xu Hongyu , Zhang Xun , Liu Meng
Published: January 2020

The effect of La/Nd ratio on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast AZ91D alloys were investigated. The alloys were produced by casting the molten metal into a preheated steel mould. Microstructures were investigated by XRD and SEM (equipped with EDS). The hardness measurement was carried out by Brinell hardness (HB) digital display tester. Compression tests were conducted at both room and high temperatures (20 °C and 150 °C). Microstructural characterizations reveal that the area fraction of the β-Mg17Al12 phase changed with the variation of La/Nd ratio. The area fraction of the β-Mg17Al12 phase decrease significantly and then increased slightly with the increase of La/Nd ratio. Besides, the results show that the addition of La and Nd contributed to the formation of needle-like phase Al11RE3. Meanwhile, the Brinell hardness and high-temperature compression properties of this alloy reach the maximum values (67 HB and 330 MPa, respectively) when the La/Nd ratio is 2/3. In this alloy, the amount of Al11RE3 phase is 51/TA and the average length is 69.55 μm. Moreover, a generation model of Al11RE3 is established and the growth mechanism of Al11RE3 is analyzed. This work thus has proved that La/Nd ratio has a great effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AZ91.
Kagome metal-organic frameworks as a platform for strongly correlated electrons
Authors: Fuchs Marius , Liu Peitao , Schwemmer Tilman , Sangiovanni Giorgio , Thomale Ronny , Franchini Cesare , Di Sante Domenico
Published: January 2020

By using first-principles calculations we put forward the Cu-dicyanoanthracene lattice as a platform to investigate strong electronic correlations in the family of Kagome metal-organic frameworks. We show that the low-energy model is composed by molecular orbitals which arrange themselves in a typical Kagome lattice at n = 2/3 filling, where the Fermi level lies at the Dirac point. The Coulomb interaction matrix expressed in this molecular orbitals basis, as obtained by large-scale constrained random-phase approximation calculations, is characterized by local U and non-local

U
′

parameters exceeding more than ten times the Kagome bandwidth. For such Kagome systems, our findings suggest the possible emergence of peculiar electron–electron collective phenomena, such as an exotic valence bond solid order characterized by modulated bond strengths.
The recent development of soft x-ray interference lithography in SSRF
Authors: Zhao Jun , Yang Shumin , Xue Chaofan , Wang Liansheng , Liang Zhaofeng , Zhang Lei , Wang Yong , Wu Yanqing , Tai Renzhong
Published: January 2020

This paper introduces the recent progress in methodologies and their related applications based on the soft x-ray interference lithography beamline in the Shanghai synchrotron radiation facility. Dual-beam, multibeam interference lithography and Talbot lithography have been adopted as basic methods in the beamline. To improve the experimental performance, a precise real-time vibration evaluation system has been established; and the lithography stability has been greatly improved. In order to meet the demands for higher resolution and practical application, novel experimental methods have been developed, such as high-order diffraction interference exposure, high-aspect-ratio and large-area stitching exposure, and parallel direct writing achromatic Talbot lithography. As of now, a 25 nm half-pitch pattern has been obtained; and a cm2 exposure area has been achieved in practical samples. The above methods have been applied to extreme ultraviolet photoresist evaluation, photonic crystal and surface plasmonic effect research, and so on.
The mean square discrepancy in the divisor problem
Authors: Ge Fan , Gonek Steven
Published: January 2020

We study the mean square of the error term, or the mean square discrepancy, in the Dirichlet divisor problem. An analysis of the off-diagonal terms in the mean square of the Voronoi summation formula leads to a precise conjecture for this mean square discrepancy. Surprisingly, the discrepancy contains a slowly oscillating, unbounded term.
Development of an evidence-based residency preparation checklist using a Delphi process
Authors: Beckett Robert D , Linn Dustin D
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To develop an evidence-based tool that will provide concise guidance to pharmacy students who want to become competitive postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residency applicants.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify articles describing student or school factors and specific interventions or activities associated with improved or decreased residency match rates, as well as studies describing residency program directors’ (RPDs’) or preceptors’ perceptions of qualified applicants. An initial checklist was developed, with an item for each relevant factor. A consensus on checklist items was built through a 2-round Delphi process with a panel of RPDs. Ultimately, items that received a median score of at least 5 on a 7-point scale with less than one-third of the ratings being a 1, 2, or 3 were included.

Results

The initial checklist of 34 items, primarily related to grade point average, professional involvement, work experience, or professional development, was evaluated by a panel of 25 RPD participants. Six of 34 items (18%) were reevaluated in round 2, along with 1 added item and 4 items substantively modified based on comments; 2 items were merged. Ultimately, 33 items met the criteria for consensus and were included in the final checklist.

Conclusion

A checklist of items to guide prospective pharmacy residency applicants was developed through a systematic literature search and verified by program directors using a Delphi process.
Analysis of heart and neural crest derivatives-expressed protein 2 (HAND2)-progesterone interactions in peri-implantation endometrium†
Authors: Šućurović Sandra , Nikolić Tamara , Brosens Jan J , Mulac-Jeričević Biserka
Published: January 2020

Implantation is restricted to a narrow window when the local endometrial microenvironment is supportive of the invading embryo. The ovarian steroid hormones estrogen (E) and progesterone (P) are principal regulators of uterine receptivity. Suppression of E-dependent proliferation of luminal epithelium (LE) by P is mandatory for embryo implantation. Here, we report that the balance of E receptor α (ERα) and P receptors (PR) activity controls HAND2 expression, a key transcription factor that determines the fate of the implanting embryo and thereby pregnancy outcome. As a model, we used wild-type mice as well as mice in which either both PR isoforms or the A-isoform was genetically ablated (PRKO and PRAKO, respectively). Detailed spatiotemporal analyses of PR, HAND2, and ERα expression at implantation site demonstrated co-expression of HAND2 and PR but not ERα. Furthermore, in hormonally treated ovariectomized WT, PRAKO and PRKO mice, E suppresses endometrial HAND2 expression. Adding P together with E partially rescues HAND2 expression in WT, but not PRAKO and PRKO animals. Therefore, infertility in PRAKO mice is at least in part associated with the loss of PR-A-regulated HAND2 expression.
The blueprint of RNA storages relative to oocyte developmental competence in cattle (Bos taurus)
Authors: Walker Bailey N , Biase Fernando H
Published: January 2020

From the time oocytes leave quiescence, there are constant microenvironmental influences contributing to development, thus acquiring developmental competence is not a simple, linear phenomenon. During folliculogenesis, oocytes experience many morphological and cytological changes that contribute toward the acquisition of developmental competence, a process defined by an oocyte’s ability to progress through folliculogenesis, be fertilized, undergo cleavage, and develop into an embryo. Many factors, such as ovarian follicle size, cow age, and the morphology of the cumulus–oocyte complex, have been extensively investigated to understand this process. In parallel to aiding in the understanding of oocyte biology, these features have been used to characterize an oocyte’s ability to achieve competence. In addition, oocytes undergo intense gene transcription and protein translation to accumulate the maternal stores. When the oocyte is fully grown, most genes are transcriptionally inactive, and the chromatin is densely compacted. More recently, RNA profiling has been used to further define the transcriptional parameters that are associated with oocyte development. Here, focusing on cattle, we provide an overview of the experimental models commonly used to understand the underlying biology related to oocyte developmental competence. We compiled public data and showed that cattle oocytes can express over 15 000 protein-coding genes, suggesting a complex transcriptome landscape. Surprisingly, less than 2% of the expressed genes have been linked to developmental competence. The identification of the gene products that contribute to oocyte development, and understanding their biological function, are a vital component of our quest toward defining oocyte developmental competence at the molecular level.
The Arc de Siècle: functional neurological disorder during the ‘forgotten’ years of the 20th century
Authors: Fend Max , Williams Louise , Carson Alan J , Stone Jon
Published: January 2020

Using archived records, plus oral histories from retired neurologists, Fend et al. examine attitudes to functional neurological disorders in the mid-20th century. While frequently scathing in their correspondence, most neurologists of the time adopted a pragmatic approach with many referring patients to psychiatrists.
A case report of arrhythmogenic ventricular cardiomyopathy presenting with sustained ventricular tachycardia arising from the right and the left ventricles before structural changes are documented
Authors: Belhassen Bernard , Shmilovich Haim , Nof Eyal , Milman Anat
Published: January 2020

Background

Arrhythmogenic ventricular cardiomyopathy (AC) is a genetic progressive disease characterized by fibro-fatty replacement of either ventricles in isolation or in combination. Arrhythmogenic ventricular cardiomyopathy is frequently associated with ventricular tachycardia (VT) having a left bundle branch block (LBBB) morphology and much more rarely with VT having right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology even when the left ventricle is involved. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging plays a key role in the diagnosis of AC. Sustained VT in AC may occur in the concealed stage of the disease before the manifestation of morphological abnormalities on echocardiogram; however, they almost always are accompanied by structural abnormalities of the ventricles on CMR.

Case summary

A 54-year-old man presented with sustained VT of LBBB configuration consistent with the diagnosis of AC but with no right ventricular (RV) anomalies at repeat CMR. Ten years later, he developed sustained VT with RBBB morphology and structural changes at CMR compatible with RV involvement in the setting of AC. Two years later, he suffered from recurrent identical sustained RBBB-VT with typical CMR signs of left ventricular involvement. Genetic analysis was negative for any known mutation.

Discussion

In the present report, we describe a patient with AC who first exhibited LBBB- and 10 years later RBBB-sustained VT. Contrasting with what is usually observed in patients with AC, documentations of the VT’s arising from either ventricle were found to precede the structural anomalies in the respective cardiac chambers. This case highlights that normal CMR does not exclude underlying AC contrary to the perceptions of many clinicians. In addition, it strongly encourages repeating CMR after 1–2 years when the diagnosis of AC is highly suspected.
Two distinct phenotypes of plaque erosion assessed by multimodality intracoronary imaging: a case series
Authors: Yamaguchi Masao , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Hoshino Masahiro , Kanaji Yoshihisa , Hada Masahiro , Usui Eisuke , Yonetsu Taishi , Kakuta Tsunekazu
Published: January 2020

Background 

Pathological studies have reported that patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) may have different plaque morphologies at culprit lesions, and one of the underlying mechanisms for ACS is plaque erosion. However, the morphological features of plaque erosion obtained by multiple intracoronary imaging modalities have not been fully elucidated.

Case summary 

We experienced two cases with ACS of culprit lesions exhibiting optical coherence tomography (OCT)-defined plaque erosion. Additional examinations using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)–intravascular ultrasound and coronary angioscopy suggested the presence of two distinct phenotypes of plaque erosion. These two types of erosion differ in the extent of NIRS-derived lipid core burden and coronary angioscopy-derived luminal surface colour.

Discussion 

OCT-defined plaque erosion may not be the unique entity but have at least two distinct plaque morphologies, and NIRS and/or coronary angioscopy may provide incremental ability of discriminating these plaque phenotypes classified as plaque erosion by OCT.
Rare case of isolated true aneurysm in the superficial femoral artery treated with endovascular intervention: a case report
Authors: Chung Seyong , Jang Ji-Yong , Kim Do-Kyun
Published: January 2020

Background 

Isolated true aneurysms in the superficial femoral artery (SFA) have rarely been reported. Most cases are undiagnosed until rupture or the occurrence of complications.

Case summary

A 36-year-old woman presented with a palpable, pulsating mass on her right thigh which had increased in size over 2 months. She also had a swollen right leg and mild claudication (Stage II in Rutherford classification). For 2 months, the patient was treated by manual massage, acupuncture, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in local clinics. Bed-side ultrasonography identified a 3.4-cm sized true aneurysm of the right SFA. There were no other aneurysms in arteries from head to toe. There was no evidence of atherosclerotic risk factors or connective tissue disease. The patient was successfully treated by a covered stent graft implantation without any complications.

Discussion

Isolated true aneurysm in the SFA is rare and tends to go undiagnosed especially in young women. Ultrasonography is an easy and useful diagnostic tool for differential diagnosis of thigh mass. In this case, endovascular treatment was safely applied for a true aneurysm without rupture.
Antibody-mediated rejection with detection of de novo donor-specific anti-human leucocyte antigen Class II antibodies 3 years after heart transplantation: a case report
Authors: Ludwig Bernd , Schneider Johanna , Föll Daniela , Zhou Qian
Published: January 2020

Background

Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in cardiac transplantation may manifest early within the first weeks after transplantation but also late after months to years following transplantation resulting in mild heart failure to cardiogenic shock. While patients with early cardiac AMR are less affected and seem to have survival rates comparable to transplant recipients without AMR, late cardiac AMR is frequently associated with graft dysfunction, fulminant forms of cardiac allograft vasculopathy, and a high mortality rate. Nevertheless, AMR of cardiac allografts remains difficult to diagnose and to treat.

Case summary

We report the case of a 47-year-old male patient with late AMR of the cardiac allograft 3 years after heart transplantation. Antibody-mediated rejection was confirmed by endomyocardial biopsy and the presence of donor-specific antibodies (DSA). The patient was treated with high dose of prednisolone, plasmapheresis, intravenous Gamma Globulin, rituximab, immunoadsorption, and bortezomib. Under this treatment regimen left ventricular ejection fraction and pro B-type natriuretic peptide recovered, and the patient improved to New York Heart Association Class I. Currently, 3 years after the diagnosis of cardiac AMR, graft function continues to be nearly normal, and there is no evidence for transplant vasculopathy.

Discussion

This case illustrates that AMR can occur at any time after transplantation. Although graft function fully recovered after treatment in our patient, the level of DSA remained high, suggesting that DSA may not be a reliable parameter to determine the intensity and duration of the therapy.
Screening of bacterial strains from the gut of Pacific White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and their efficiencies in improving the fermentation of soybean meal
Authors: Gao Shuo , Pan Luqing , Zhang Mingzhu , Huang Fei , Zhang Mengyu , He Ziyan
Published: January 2020

Microbial fermentation is an efficient, economical and eco-friendly approach to overcome the limitations in soybean meal replacement of fish meal in aquaculture. However, little research focused on the development of shrimp-derived strains for fermentation of SBM. In this study, Bacillus sanfensis (SQVG18) and Bacillus stratosphericus (SQVG22) were screened from shrimp intestine for fermentation according to the activities of protease, cellulase and phytase. The optimized fermentation conditions of SQVG18 and SQVG22 were as follow: fermentation temperature (40°C vs 35°C), fermentation time (48h both), inoculation amount [4% both (v/m)], solid-liquid ratio [1:1.2 vs 1:1 (g/ml)]. After 48 h fermentation, SQVG18 and SQVG22 increased crude protein content by 6.93% and 5.95%, respectively; degraded most of macromolecular proteins to micromolecular proteins (< 20 kDa); improved amino acids profiles, like lysine and methionine in particular; significantly decreased the anti-nutritional factors such as trypsin inhibitor, glycinin and β-conglycinin (P < 0.05). In addition, both strains were observed no hemolytic activity, less antibiotic resistance genes and definite inhibition to common shrimp pathogens of Vibrio alginolyticus sp. and Vibrio parahaemolyticus sp. These results indicated that both strains could improve nutrition values of soybean meal effectively and have potential applications in shrimp culture.
Improving trapping methods for buprestid beetles to enhance monitoring of native and invasive species
Authors: Imrei Zoltán , Lohonyai Zsófia , Csóka György , Muskovits József , Szanyi Szabolcs , Vétek Gábor , Fail József , Tóth Miklós , Domingue Michael J
Published: January 2020

Most of the current understanding of the orientation and communication of jewel beetles arose from research on the Asian emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, which has become one of the most destructive invasive forest insect pests in history following its introduction to North America and European Russia. From a European perspective, a number of jewel beetles have a high invasive risk similar to that of the emerald ash borer, including the potential threat of the bronze birch borer Agrilus anxius, the goldspotted oak borer Agrilus auroguttatus, and the twolined chestnut borer Agrilus bilineatus. Native jewel beetles expanding their geographic range include the cypress jewel beetle Ovalisia festiva and the black-banded oak borer Coraebus florentinus. Other native species are increasing in their importance, including the flathead oak borer Coraebus undatus, the two-spotted oak borer Agrilus biguttatus, the flatheaded beech borer Agrilus viridis and Agrilus cuprescens. Commonly used prism and multi-funnel trap designs and other promising experimental trap designs have been tested and compared in the US and in Europe. One factor considered has been colouration, typically purple and green. Another is olfactory attraction, both to plant volatiles and extracts such as (Z)-3-hexenol, Manuka oil, Phoebe oil and Cubeb oil, and also to pheromones such as (Z)-3-lactone, for emerald ash borer. Field observations have been made of mating and host-finding behaviours of oak buprestids based upon visual stimuli in North America and Europe. By using pinned dead EAB models, visual mating approaches have been observed by males of Agrilus biguttatus, Agrilus sulcicollis and Agrilus angustulus, which is a behaviour similar to that previously observed in EAB. Green plastic-covered branch-traps significantly out-performed other trap designs and caught more Agrilus jewel beetles if an artificial visual decoy that copies a beetle body was included. A higher fidelity decoy offered the same distinctive light-scattering pattern as real resting EAB females and elicited the full sequence of stereotypical male mating flight behaviour of EAB and A. biguttatus from up to 1 m away. An optimization of visual, olfactory and other possible stimuli has likely not yet been achieved. More sophisticated trap designs could lead to more sensitive detection capabilities with increased selectivity.
Seismic asperity size evolution during fluid injection: case study of the 1993 Soultz-sous-Forêts injection
Authors: Cauchie L , Lengliné O , Schmittbuhl J
Published: January 2020

The injection of fluid in the upper crust, notably for the development or exploitation of geothermal reservoirs, is often associated with the onset of induced seismicity. Although this process has been largely studied, it is not clear how the injected fluid influences the rupture size of the induced events. Here we re-investigate the induced earthquakes that occurred during an injection at Soultz-sous-Forêts, France in 1993 and studied the link between the injected fluid and the source properties of the numerous induced earthquakes. We take advantage that deep borehole accelerometers were running in the vicinity of the injection site. We estimate the moment and radius of all recorded events based on a spectral analysis and classify them into 663 repeating sequences. We show that the events globally obey the typical scaling law between radius and moment. However, at the scale of the asperity, fluctuations of the moment are important while the radii remain similar suggesting a variable stress drop or a mechanism that prevents the growth of the rupture. This is confirmed by linking the event source size to the geomechanical history of the reservoir. In areas where aseismic slip on pre-existing faults has been evidenced, we observed only small rupture sizes whereas in part of the reservoir where seismicity is related to the creation of new fractures, a wider distribution and larger rupture sizes are promoted. Implications for detecting the transition between events related to pre-existing faults and the onset of fresh fractures are discussed.
2019: A Banner Year for Tuberculosis Research
Authors: Eisinger Robert W , Embry Alan C , Read Sarah W , Fauci Anthony S
Published: January 2020

This article outlines the significant scientific progress reported in 2019 that has led to the development of new drugs and therapeutic regimens, vaccine candidates, and diagnostics for the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis. In 2020, it will be important to build on this momentum and continue to advance basic and clinical research to develop improved tools and interventions, simultaneously optimizing their implementation in national control programs. To successfully achieve the goal to end tuberculosis within a generation, a concerted, collective, and collaborative effort is required, involving government, academia, industry and civil society at all levels.
Old but not obsolete: an enhanced high-speed immunoblot
Authors: Higashi Sayuri L , Yagyu Kazuya , Nagase Haruna , Pearson Craig S , Geller Herbert M , Katagiri Yasuhiro
Published: January 2020

The immunoblotting technique (also known as western blotting) is an essential tool used in biomedical research to determine the relative size and abundance of specific proteins and protein modifications. However, long incubation times severely limit its throughput. We have devised a system that improves antigen binding by cyclic draining and replenishing (CDR) of the antibody solution in conjunction with an immunoreaction enhancing agent. Biochemical analyses revealed that the CDR method reduced the incubation time of the antibodies, and the presence of a commercial immunoreaction enhancing agent altered the affinity of the antibody, respectively. Combination of the CDR method with the immunoreaction enhancing agent considerably enhanced the output signal and further reduced the incubation time of the antibodies. The resulting high-speed immunoblot can be completed in 20 min without any loss in sensitivity. Further, the antibodies are fully reusable. This method is effective for both chemiluminescence and fluorescence detection. Widespread adoption of this technique could dramatically boost efficiency and productivity across the life sciences.
Molecular basis of flexible peptide recognition by an antibody
Authors: Makabe Koki
Published: January 2020

Antibodies can recognize various types of antigens with high specificity and affinity and peptide is one of their major targets. Understanding an antibody’s molecular recognition mechanism for peptide is important for developing clones with a higher specificity and affinity. Here, the author reviews recent progresses in flexible peptide recognition by an antibody using several biophysical techniques, including X-ray crystallography, molecular dynamics simulations and calorimetric measurements. A set of two reports highlight the importance of intramolecular hydrogen bonds that form in an unbound flexible state. Such intramolecular hydrogen bonds restrict the fluctuation of the peptide and reduce the conformational entropy, resulting in the destabilization of the unbound state and increasing the binding affinity by increasing the free energy change. These detailed analyses will aid in the antibody design in the future.
Iso-material contour representation for process planning of heterogeneous object model
Authors: Sharma G K , Gurumoorthy B
Published: January 2020

Additive manufacturing is emerging as the preferred process for making heterogeneous objects. Planning the deposition of material is more complex for heterogeneous objects as the material variation has to be tracked along the path. This paper proposes an iso-material contour representation to generate the process plan for additive manufacturing given a smooth representation of heterogeneous object model. These contours represent the iso-material paths for deposition. As these paths shift along the direction of the gradation of material distribution, the deposition respects the gradient of the designed material distribution unlike iso-oriented paths generated by a raster scan method. Since the paths have the same material composition, material frequent change in the material composition is avoided, which, in turn, avoids the uneven deposition caused by the frequent start and stop of deposition while the material is being changed along the paths generated by the traditional raster scan. Associativity between the contours and the corresponding designed material feature is maintained, and therefore, changes in material composition are automatically propagated to the process plan.
Jurisdiction for online trade mark infringement in India
Authors: Gehlot Ashwini , Panwar Aklovya
Published: January 2020

Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd v S & D Hospitality, 2018 Cs (Comm) 111/2017, Delhi High Court, 3 January 2018

In Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd v S & D Hospitality, the Delhi High Court clarified the issue of jurisdiction regarding trade mark infringement arising out of acts committed on the Internet. The Court upheld its earlier decision of Banyan Tree Holding (P) Limited v A Murali Krishna Reddy & Anr, 2009 and solved the conflicting decisions over the issue.
Role of Anopheles gambiae s.s. and Anopheles coluzzii (Diptera: Culicidae) in Human Malaria Transmission in Rural Areas of Bouaké, in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Zoh Dounin D , Yapi Ahoua , Adja Maurice A , Guindo-Coulibaly Négnorogo , Kpan Didier M S , Sagna André B , Adou Arsène K , Cornelie Sylvie , Brengues Cécile , Poinsignon Anne , Chandre Fabrice
Published: January 2020

Studies done in Bouaké (Côte d’Ivoire) about 20-yr ago reported that Anopheles gambiae s.l. Giles was the major malaria vector. The present study aimed to update these data and to identify the main vectors. Mosquitoes were collected in Allokokro and Petessou villages between June 2014 and December 2015 using the human landing catching method. Potential breeding sites of An. gambiae s.l. were identified in August and October 2014 and mapped using GPS. Anopheles species were morphologically and molecularly [polymerase chain reaction (PCR)] identified. Ovaries of female were dissected to determine the parity and infection with Plasmodium was detected in head and thorax by quantitative PCR. In Allokokro, the biting rate of An. gambiae s.s was significantly greater than Anopheles coluzzii, whereas, in Petessou, biting rates of both species were comparable. Plasmodium falciparum (Haemosporida: Plasmodiidae), Plasmodium malariae (Haemosporida: Plasmodiidae), and Plasmodium ovale (Haemosporida: Plasmodiidae) identified in both villages. The infection rates of An. gambiae s.s. and An. coluzzii were not significantly different. The entomological inoculation rate (EIR) of An. gambiae s.s. for P. falciparum was 9-fold greater than that of An. coluzzii in Allokokro; however, in Petessou, the EIRs of both species were comparable. In both village, An. gambiae s.s was responsible for P. falciparum and P. ovale transmission whereas An. coluzzii transmitted all three Plasmodium species.
Validamycin A Delays Development and Prevents Flight in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Marten Andrew D , Stothard Alicyn I , Kalera Karishma , Swarts Benjamin M , Conway Michael J
Published: January 2020

Trehalose is a disaccharide that is the major sugar found in insect hemolymph fluid. Trehalose provides energy, and promotes growth, metamorphosis, stress recovery, chitin synthesis, and insect flight. The hydrolysis of trehalose is under the enzymatic control of the enzyme trehalase. Trehalase is critical to the role of trehalose in insect physiology, and is required for the regulation of metabolism and glucose generation. Trehalase inhibitors represent a novel class of insecticides that have not been fully developed. Here, we tested the ability of trehalose analogues to function as larvacides or adulticides in an important disease vector—Aedes aegypti. We show that validamycin A, but not 5-thiotrehalose, delays larval and pupal development and prevents flight of adult mosquitoes. Larval mosquitoes treated with validamycin A were hypoglycemic and pupae had increased levels of trehalose. Treatment also skewed the sex ratio toward male mosquitoes. These data reveal that validamycin A is a mosquito adulticide that can impair normal development of an important disease vector.
The mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase OsALDH2b negatively regulates tapetum degeneration in rice
Authors: Xie Xianrong , Zhang Zixu , Zhao Zhe , Xie Yongyao , Li Heying , Ma Xingliang , Liu Yao-Guang , Chen Letian
Published: January 2020

Timely degradation of anther tapetal cells is a prerequisite for normal pollen development in flowering plants. Although several genes involved in tapetum development have been identified, the molecular basis of tapetum degeneration regulation remains poorly understood. In this study, we identified and characterized the nucleus-encoded, conserved mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase OsALDH2b as a key regulator of tapetum degeneration in rice (Oryza sativa). OsALDH2b was highly expressed in anthers from meiosis to the early microspore stage. Mutation of OsALDH2b resulted in excess malonaldehyde accumulation and earlier programmed cell death in the tapetum, leading to premature tapetum degeneration and abnormal microspore development. These results demonstrate that OsALDH2b negatively regulates tapetal programmed cell death and is required for male reproductive development, providing insights into the regulation of tapetum development in plants.
Danger peptide signaling enhances internalization of a geminivirus symptom determinant in plant cells during infection
Authors: Zeng Runxiu , Liu Xiaoshi , Li Huiyun , Wu Shuang , Huang Wei , Zhai Zhenqian , Li Min , Lin Yuxin , Xie Qi , Yang Chengwei , Lai Jianbin
Published: January 2020

Geminiviruses are DNA viruses that cause severe diseases in diverse species of plants, resulting in considerable agricultural losses worldwide. C4 proteins are a major symptom determinant in several geminiviruses, including Beet severe curly top virus (BSCTV). Here, we uncovered a novel mechanism by which danger peptide signaling enhances the internalization of BSCTV C4 in plant cells. Previous studies showed that this signaling is important for activation of bacterium- and fungus-triggered immune responses, but its function in plant–virus interactions was previously unknown. Pep1 RECEPTOR1 (PEPR1) and PEPR2 are receptor kinases recognized by Peps (plant elicitor peptides) in the danger peptide pathway. We found that BSCTV C4 up-regulated and interacted with PEPR2 but not PEPR1. The Pep1–PEPR2 complex stimulated the internalization of C4 in both Arabidopsis and Nicotiana benthamiana cells. Furthermore, C4 induced callus formation in Arabidopsis, which was suppressed by PEPR2 overexpression but enhanced in the pepr2 mutants. In the presence of Pep1, overexpression of PEPR2 suppressed BSCTV infection in N. benthamiana. Exogenous Pep1 also reduced BSCTV infection in Arabidopsis in a PEPR2-dependent manner. Thus, PEPR2 recognizes the symptom determinant C4 and enhances its internalization mediated by danger peptides, suppressing BSCTV infection.
Dynamic regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis at different light intensities by the BT2-TCP46-MYB1 module in apple
Authors: An Jian-Ping , Liu Ya-Jing , Zhang Xiao-Wei , Bi Si-Qi , Wang Xiao-Fei , You Chun-Xiang , Hao Yu-Jin
Published: January 2020

Teosinte branched1/cycloidea/proliferating (TCP) transcription factors play a broad role in plant growth and development, but their involvement in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis is currently unclear. In this study, anthocyanin biosynthesis induced by different light intensities in apple (Malus domestica) was found to be largely dependent on the functions of the MdMYB1 and MdTCP46 transcription factors. The expression of MdTCP46 was responsive to high light intensity, and under these conditions it promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis by direct interactions with MdMYB1 that enhanced the binding of the latter to its target genes. MdTCP46 also interacted with a bric-a-brac/tramtrack/broad (BTB) protein, MdBT2, that is responsive to high light intensity, which ubiquitinated MdTCP46 and mediated its degradation via the 26S proteasome pathway. Our results demonstrate that the dynamic regulatory module MdBT2-MdTCP46-MdMYB1 plays a key role in modulating anthocyanin biosynthesis at different light intensities in apple, and provides new insights into the post-transcriptional regulation of TCP proteins.