bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attendance trends threaten future operations of America’s state park systems
Authors: Smith Jordan W. , Wilkins Emily J. , Leung Yu-Fai
Published: June 2019

This research examines how the operating expenditures of America’s state park systems will be affected by a continued growth in attendance consistent with observed trends as well as potential climate futures. We construct a longitudinal panel dataset (1984–2017) describing the operations and characteristics of all 50 state park systems. These data are analyzed with a time-varying stochastic frontier model. Estimates from the model are used to forecast operating expenditures to midcentury under four different scenarios. The first scenario assumes annual attendance within each state park system will continue to grow (or decline) at the same average annual rate that it has over the period of observation. The subsequent scenarios assume statewide annual mean temperatures will increase following the RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5 greenhouse gas emissions trajectories. Operating expenditures under a scenario where annual growth in attendance stays consistent with observed trends are forecasted to increase 756% by midcentury; this is an order of magnitude larger than projected expenditures under any of the climate scenarios. The future climate change scenarios yielded increases in operating expenditures between 25% (RCP2.6) and 61% (RCP8.5) by 2050. Attendance is the single largest factor affecting the operations of America’s state park systems, dwarfing the influence of climate change, which is significant and nontrivial. The future of America’s state park systems will depend upon increased support from state legislatures, as well as management actions that generate funds for the maintenance of existing infrastructure and facilities, and the provisioning of services.
Renewable CO2recycling and synthetic fuel production in a marine environment
Authors: Patterson Bruce D. , Mo Frode , Borgschulte Andreas , Hillestad Magne , Joos Fortunat , Kristiansen Trygve , Sunde Svein , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: June 2019

Significance

Humankind must cease CO2emissions from fossil fuel burning if dangerous climate change is to be avoided. However, liquid carbon-based energy carriers are often without practical alternatives for vital mobility applications. The recycling of atmospheric CO2into synthetic fuels, using renewable energy, offers an energy concept with no net CO2emission. We propose to implement, on a large scale, marine-based artificial islands, on which solar or wind energy powers the production of hydrogen and the extraction of CO2from seawater and where these gases are catalytically reacted to yield liquid methanol fuel. The present work proposes specifications for such facilities and highlights essential challenges in physics, chemistry, and engineering which must be met to realize this ambitious proposal.
Inward-facing conformation of a multidrug resistance MATE family transporter
Authors: Zakrzewska Sandra , Mehdipour Ahmad Reza , Malviya Viveka Nand , Nonaka Tsuyoshi , Koepke Juergen , Muenke Cornelia , Hausner Winfried , Hummer Gerhard , Safarian Schara , Michel Hartmut
Published: June 2019

Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) transporters mediate excretion of xenobiotics and toxic metabolites, thereby conferring multidrug resistance in bacterial pathogens and cancer cells. Structural information on the alternate conformational states and knowledge of the detailed mechanism of MATE transport are of great importance for drug development. However, the structures of MATE transporters are only known in V-shaped outward-facing conformations. Here, we present the crystal structure of a MATE transporter from
Pyrococcus furiosus
(PfMATE) in the long-sought-after inward-facing state, which was obtained after crystallization in the presence of native lipids. Transition from the outward-facing state to the inward-facing state involves rigid body movements of transmembrane helices (TMs) 2–6 and 8–12 to form an inverted V, facilitated by a loose binding of TM1 and TM7 to their respective bundles and their conformational flexibility. The inward-facing structure of PfMATE in combination with the outward-facing one supports an alternating access mechanism for the MATE family transporters.
Unique transmembrane domain interactions differentially modulate integrin αvβ3 and αIIbβ3 function
Authors: Litvinov Rustem I. , Mravic Marco , Zhu Hua , Weisel John W. , DeGrado William F. , Bennett Joel S.
Published: June 2019

Significance

Besides anchoring proteins in membranes, transmembrane (TM) helices facilitate the assembly of multisubunit proteins. Often, TM helices contain several TM–helix interaction sequences, arranged such that they cannot be simultaneously engaged. The TM helix of the β3-integrin subunit contains two different sequences that it uses to interact with two different α-subunits, one with αIIb and the other with αv. Because integrins have distinct biological functions, the ability of a single TM helix to use different sequences to interact with different partners likely contributes to this functional specificity. Thus, the ability to achieve binding on two faces of a single TM helix provides a mechanism to evolve new binding partners for integrins and likely other membrane proteins as well.
“But it is not prov’d”
Authors: Lutzky Ursula
Published: June 2019

Previous studies have found discourse markers to be represented with only low frequencies in Early Modern English trial proceedings, especially when compared to other dialogic and fictional text types from the same period. Nevertheless, they comprise certain classes of markers, such as contrastive markers, which operate on different levels of discourse. This study aims to provide further insights into the use of the coordinatorbutin a sociopragmatically annotated corpus of trial proceedings from the period 1560 to 1760. Drawing on contextual information, the analysis will assess the distribution ofbutthroughout the Early Modern English period and address certain peaks in its use. In addition, the sociopragmatic information included in the corpus will be consulted to discover which trial participants used the form repeatedly in their speech and with which functions. Overall, this study will therefore offer an innovative sociopragmatic profile ofbutas a contrastive marker in Early Modern English trials.
Ubr1p-Cup9p-Ptr2p pathway involves in the sensitivity to readthrough compounds negamycin derivatives in budding yeast
Authors: Hamada Keisuke , Naito Akari , Hamaguchi Yu , Kanesaki Yu , Kasahara Koji , Taguchi Akihiro , Omura Noriko , Hayashi Yoshio , Usui Takeo
Published: June 2019

In this study, we found that dipeptide transporter Ptr2p is the putative transporter of read-through compounds (+)-negamycin derivatives TCP-126 and TCP-112, in budding yeast. Ptr2p expression and activity were correlated with the TCP-112 sensitivity, and dipeptide with high affinity to Ptr2p suppressed the TCP-112 activity. These results suggest that dipeptide transporter is one of the determinants of negamycin analogs sensitivity.

Abbreviation: PTC: premature termination codon.
Development of a synthesis method for odor sesquiterpenoid, (−)-rotundone, using non-heme Fe2+-chelate catalyst and ferric-chelate reductase
Authors: Umezawa Satoru , Konishi Shunsuke , Kino Kuniki
Published: June 2019

(−)-Rotundone, a sesquiterpenoid that has a characteristic woody and peppery odor, is a key aroma component of spicy foodstuffs, such as black pepper and Australian Shiraz wine. (−)-Rotundone shows the lowest level of odor threshold in natural compounds and remarkably improves the quality of various fruit flavors. To develop a method for the synthesis of (−)-rotundone, we focused on non-heme Fe2+-chelates, which are biomimetic catalysts of the active center of oxygenases and enzymatic supply and regeneration of those catalysts. That is, we constructed a unique combination system composed of the oxidative synthesis of (−)-rotundone using the non-heme Fe2+-chelate catalyst, Fe(II)-EDTA, and the enzymatic supply and regeneration of Fe2+-chelate by ferric-chelate reductase, YqjH, from Escherichia coli. In addition, we improved the yield of (−)-rotundone by the application of cyclodextrin and glucose dehydrogenase to this system, and thus established a platform for efficient (−)-rotundone production.
Regulatory mechanisms for amylolytic gene expression in the koji moldAspergillus oryzae
Authors: Gomi Katsuya
Published: June 2019

The koji mold Aspergillus oryzae has been used in traditional Japanese food and beverage fermentation for over a thousand years. Amylolytic enzymes are important in sake fermentation, wherein production is induced by starch or malto-oligosaccharides. This inducible production requires at least two transcription activators, AmyR and MalR. Among amylolytic enzymes, glucoamylase GlaB is produced exclusively in solid-state culture and plays a critical role in sake fermentation owing to its contribution to glucose generation from starch. A recent study demonstrated that glaB gene expression is regulated by a novel transcription factor, FlbC, in addition to AmyR in solid-state culture. Amylolytic enzyme production is generally repressed by glucose due to carbon catabolite repression (CCR), which is mediated by the transcription factor CreA. Modifying CCR machinery, including CreA, can improve amylolytic enzyme production. This review focuses on the role of transcription factors in regulating A. oryzae amylolytic gene expression.
Identifying the molecular target sites for CFTR potentiators GLPG1837 and VX-770
Authors: Yeh Han-I , Qiu Liming , Sohma Yoshiro , Conrath Katja , Zou Xiaoqin , Hwang Tzyh-Chang
Published: June 2019

The past two decades have witnessed major breakthroughs in developing compounds that target the chloride channel CFTR for the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis. However, further improvement in affinity and efficacy for these CFTR modulators will require insights into the molecular interactions between CFTR modulators and their binding targets. In this study, we use in silico molecular docking to identify potential binding sites for GLPG1837, a CFTR potentiator that may share a common mechanism and binding site with VX-770, the FDA-approved drug for patients carrying mutations with gating defects. Among the five binding sites predicted by docking, the two top-scoring sites are located at the interface between CFTR’s two transmembrane domains: site I consists of D924, N1138, and S1141, and site IIN includes F229, F236, Y304, F312, and F931. Using mutagenesis to probe the importance of these sites for GLPG187 binding, we find that disruption of predicted hydrogen-bonding interactions by mutation of D924 decreases apparent affinity, while hydrophobic amino acids substitutions at N1138 and introduction of positively charged amino acids at S1141 improve the apparent affinity for GLPG1837. Alanine substitutions at Y304, F312, and F931 (site IIN) decrease the affinity for GLPG1837, whereas alanine substitutions at F229 and F236 (also site IIN), or at residues in the other three lower-scoring sites, have little effect. In addition, current relaxation analysis to assess the apparent dissociation rate of VX-770 yields results consistent with the dose–response experiments for GLPG8137, with the dissociation rate of VX-770 accelerated by D924N, F236A, Y304A, and F312A, but decelerated by N1138L and S1141K mutations. Collectively, these data identify two potential binding sites for GLPG1837 and VX-770 in CFTR. We discuss the pros and cons of evidence for these two loci and the implications for future drug design.
Parallel integro-differential equation solving via multi-channel reciprocal bianisotropic metasurface augmented by normal susceptibilities
Authors: Abdolali Ali , Momeni Ali , Rajabalipanah Hamid , Achouri Karim
Published: June 2019

Analog optical signal processing has dramatically transcended the speed and energy limitations accompanied with its digital microelectronic counterparts. Motivated by recent metasurface’s evolution, the angular scattering diversity of a reciprocal passive bianisotropic metasurface with normal polarization is utilized in this paper to design a multi-channel meta-computing surface, performing multiple advanced mathematical operations on input fields coming from different directions, simultaneously. Here, the employed ultra-thin bianisotropic metasurface computer is theoretically characterized based on generalized sheet transition conditions and susceptibility tensors. The operators of choice are deliberately dedicated to asymmetric integro-differential equations and image processing functions, like edge detection and blurring. To clarify the concept, we present several illustrative simulations whereby diverse wave-based mathematical functionalities have been simultaneously implemented without any additional Fourier lenses. The performance of the designed metasurface overcomes the nettlesome restrictions imposed by the previous analog computing proposals such as bulky profiles, asserting only single mathematical operation, and most importantly, supporting only the even-symmetric operations for normal incidences. Besides, the realization possibility of the proposed metasurface computer is conceptually investigated via picturing the angular scattering behavior of several candidate meta-atoms. This work opens a new route for designing ultra-thin devices executing parallel and accelerated optical signal/image processing.
Impact of ENSO 2016–17 on regional climate and malaria vector dynamics in Tanzania
Authors: Kreppel Katharina , Caminade Cyril , Govella Nicodem , Morse Andrew P , Ferguson Heather M , Baylis Matthew
Published: June 2019

Large scale modes of climate variability, including the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), have been shown to significantly impact mosquito-borne diseases in the Tropics, including malaria. However, the mechanistic cascade from ENSO and the IOD, to induced changes in regional climate and ultimately mosquito abundance and behaviour is poorly understood. Mosquito population dynamics, behaviour and their potential to transmit disease are all sensitive to micro-climatic conditions. The warm phase of ENSO (El Niño) tends to be associated with increased precipitation and outbreaks of various vector-borne diseases, while the cold phase (La Niña) can cause drought during the short rains over East Africa. The sensitivity of Anopheles mosquito population dynamics and host-seeking behaviour to ENSO and to the resulting micro-climatic conditions, were investigated in the Kilombero Valley in Tanzania. From June 2016 to September 2017, changes in the timing and intensity of the rainy seasons and temperature due to the ENSO 2016–17 were observed. Mosquitoes were collected using Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) light traps indoors and mosquito electrocuting traps in- and outdoors. Changes in abundance and biting behaviour of Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles funestus were correlated with climate and micro-climate. The impacts of El Niño on climate and mosquito abundance were not clear. However, the study area experienced a drought due to La Niña during which both vector species declined significantly. An. arabiensis densities stayed more stable at higher temperatures and were found in higher numbers outdoors with respect to An. funestus. For both species, indoor temperature and season determined their host-seeking location, with higher temperatures and the wet season driving them outside. The study confirmed the influence of ENSO and micro-climate on malaria vector abundance and host-seeking behaviour, generating hypotheses for predicting the impact of future ENSO on malaria risk and vector control. Our observation of higher outdoor biting during warmer conditions indicates that indoor vector control strategies may become proportionally less effective during this time.
Co-benefits of China’s climate policy for air quality and human health in China and transboundary regions in 2030
Authors: Li Mingwei , Zhang Da , Li Chiao-Ting , Selin Noelle E , Karplus Valerie J
Published: June 2019

Climate policies targeting CO2 emissions from fossil fuels can simultaneously reduce emissions of air pollutants and their precursors, thus mitigating air pollution and associated health impacts. Previous work has examined co-benefits of climate policy from reducing PM2.5 in rapidly-developing countries such as China, but have not examined co-benefits from ozone and its transboundary impact for both PM2.5 and ozone. Here, we compare the air quality and health co-benefits of China’s climate policy on both PM2.5 and ozone in China to their co-benefits in three downwind and populous countries (South Korea, Japan and the United States) using a coupled modeling framework. In a policy scenario consistent with China’s pledge to peak CO2 emissions in approximately 2030, avoided premature deaths from ozone reductions are 54 300 (95% confidence interval: 37 100–71 000) in China in 2030, nearly 60% of those from PM2.5. Total avoided premature deaths in South Korea, Japan, and the US are 1200 (900–1600), 3500 (2800–4300), and 1900 (1400–2500), respectively. Total avoided deaths in South Korea and Japan are dominated by reductions in PM2.5-related mortality, but ozone plays a more important role in the US. Similar to co-benefits for PM2.5 in China, co-benefits of China’s policy for ozone and for both pollutants in those downwind countries also rise with increasing policy stringency.
Amplification of risks to water supply at 1.5 °C and 2 °C in drying climates: a case study for Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Henley Benjamin J , Peel Murray C , Nathan Rory , King Andrew D , Ukkola Anna M , Karoly David J , Tan Kim S
Published: June 2019

Human-induced climate change poses a major threat to the reliable water supply in many highly populated regions. Here we combine hydrological and climate model simulations to evaluate risks to the water supply under projected shifts in the climate at the Paris Agreement warming levels. Modelling the primary surface water sources for Melbourne, Australia, we project that the risk of severe water supply shortage to the climate-dependent portion of the system increases substantially as global warming increases from 1.5 °C to 2.0 °C. Risks are further exacerbated by increases in water demand but substantially ameliorated by supply augmentation from desalination. We demonstrate that reductions in precipitation, rising temperature and growth in water demand combine to substantially amplify the risk of severe water supply shortage under near-term global warming in the absence of a climate-independent supply. This risk amplification is not as apparent in assessments based on meteorological drought alone. With the diminishing opportunity of meeting the 1.5 °C Paris target, our study highlights the need to accelerate greenhouse gas mitigation efforts to reduce risks to climate dependent water supply systems.
Graphene-polymer Composites for Enhancing the Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Zheng Jian , Ma Zilong
Published: June 2019

Graphene is widely used in the improvement of mechanical properties of composite materials due to its excellent mechanical properties. In order to more fully utilize the enhanced performance of graphene, many preparation methods have been developed and gradually improved. In this paper, the research status of graphene to improve the mechanical properties of polymer composites is reviewed. The preparation process of materials and the effects of different processes on the mechanical properties of the materials are studied.
Preparation of RGO / Conductive Polymer Nanostructures and Application of Their Supercapacitors
Authors: Gu Yu , Li Qi
Published: June 2019

Reduction of the nanocomposite of the conductive polymer composite in the GO/conductive polymer and the RGO imparts excellent mechanical, thermal, electrical and electrochemical properties to the composite. Therefore, the RGO/conductive polymer has become the main research direction of new functional materials. The polypyrrole/GO composite was prepared by in-situ polymerization using graphene oxide as the matrix and polypyrrole as the guest of the difference layer. The additive type, the mass fraction of GO emulsion, the molar ratio of NaOH to pyrrole, the molar ratio of oxidant to FeCl3 to pyrrole and the reaction temperature were investigated systematically for polypyrrole/GO. The influence of the structure and properties of GO composites. The supercapacitors properties of nanocomposites as electrodes were investigated.
Polyvinyl fluoride (PVF); Its Properties, Applications, and Manufacturing Prospects
Authors: Alaaeddin M. H. , Sapuan S. M. , Zuhri M.Y.M , Zainudin E.S , AL-Oqla Faris M.
Published: June 2019

Polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) is a distinctive polymer with excessively studied properties. The wide utilization of this polymer has dramatically escalated due to its outstanding properties (e.g., mechanical strength, chemical resistance, high stability, low permeability, indoor functionality, outdoor durability, light transmissibility, adherence, stain resistance, sunlight degradation, and high temperature endurance). An overview of the chemical, physical, electrical, and thermal properties of PVF is provided. The current applications of PVF/Tedlar®, its polymerization, and the manufacturing processes are also addressed in this work. A comparative analysis has been conducted to explore common and uncommon properties of PVF, fluoropolymers, and competing polymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Overall, PVF is anticipated to have further promising manufacturing prospects in numerous industries and in various fields such as in medical equipment, renewable energy applications, sensitive devices, advanced industrial platforms, and nanotechnology material composites. Therefore, further in-depth analyses and oriented numerical information on the performance of this polymer are required.
Study of the Hardening in Middle Shaft During Cold Forging
Authors: Luh Yuan-Ping , Wang Huang-Li , Ciou Jian-Rong , Jhang Jia-Fu
Published: June 2019

Cold forging is a common processing method. It is fast, precise, and produces high strength. The purpose of this study was to process products by using a cold-forging technique. This study is aimed at achieving hardness of a certain standard without using heat treatment; computer-aided engineering (CAE) analyses were conducted with different diameter settings but the same methods and molds. Tests were conducted to understand the influence of the changes in material diameters on their material hardness values. We expected to produce workpieces of a specific hardness at the lowest cost. An actual cold forging case was conducted. First, Deform-3D (finite element analysis software) was utilized to conduct a computer-aided engineering forging analysis. How the internal stress distribution and equipment output tonnage changed as the diameter of the material changed was observed and compared against the actual hardness. This study discovered that the location where large elastic deformation occurred (i.e., where the stress concentration occurred), the hardness of the cold forging piece at that location increased. The simulation and experiment results revealed that a large area reduction rate of the intermediate shaft formation resulted in dense forging streamlines, high hardness, and substantial hardening effects.
Corrosion failure analysis of Lightweight Tinplate in Protein Beverage
Authors: Xu Fei-fan , Shi Yun-guang , Yang Jan-wei , Yan Song-tao
Published: June 2019

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) have been used to investigate the corrosion mechanism of lightweight tinplate in protein beverage. It is found that proteins in beverages can decomposed into hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and then hydrolyzed to H+ and S2-. Hydrogen evolution reaction between H+ and carbon steel could produce a large amount of H2, the gas assembled at the interface result in the exfoliation of corrosion product layer and accelerate the tinplate’s corrosion ultimately. S2- is oxidized in the medium and generated a small fraction of S which lead to the sulfur blackening phenomenon in beverage cans.
A Study on the Surface of RF Magnetron Sputtered CeO2 Thin Films at Relatively Low Substrate Temperature
Authors: Muslim Noormariah , Nur Syafi’ie Md Idris Muhammad , Soon Ying Woan , Voo Nyuk Yoong
Published: June 2019

Influences of substrate temperature on crystal structure, surface topography and surface morphology of cerium dioxide or ceria (CeO2) thin films deposited using radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering were studied. The substrate temperature was varied i.e. room temperature, 100, 200 and 300 °C. The characteristics of the film surface could be controlled by tuning the substrate temperature. As studied in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, the CeO2 thin films exhibited a cubic fluorite structure with predominant (200) orientation at substrate temperature of room temperature and 200 °C, while (111) preferred orientation at substrate temperature of 100 and 300 °C. The CeO2 films featured uniform surface topography and surface morphology, as observed from the atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses, respectively. The surface roughness and the average grain size of the films fluctuated with increasing substrate temperature. This phenomenon was suggested due to the difference in the preferential orientation of the films as in the XRD analysis.
Effect of Nanosecond Laser Treatment Parameters on Surface Wettability Behaviour of Pure Aluminium
Authors: Guo Jian , Ma Xiaolei , Si Xuekang , Yang Zeng , Zhao Jingnan
Published: June 2019

In this study, a method of preparing stable superhydrophilic surface on aluminum plate by nanosecond laser is presented. The influences of different laser processing parameters on the wettability of aluminum plate and the effect of preservation temperature on the conversion rate of aluminum plate from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic after laser ablation were studied. It is demonstrated that the microstructure formed by different laser processing parameters has certain influence on the hydrophilic property of aluminum plate, such as the lower the scanning interval and scanning speed, the easier it is to form a superhydrophilic surface. In addition, the storage temperature has a significant effect on the change of surface contact angle with time. The samples stored in the average temperature of 0°C in the atmospheric environment have an average contact angle of 18.7 °in 60 day after laser treatment, which has always maintained a good hydrophilicity. However, the samples heated 3 hours in the temperature of 150 °C appears the hydrophobicity with an average contact angle of 156.3 The mechanism of wettability transition was expounded, and a method to maintain the superhydrophilic durability of metal surface was proposed in this paper.
Sensitivity Analysis of Piston Wind in Hoistway of Super High-Speed Elevator
Authors: Qiao Shuai , Zhang Ruijun , Zhang Luzhong
Published: June 2019

The piston wind will be produced when the car runs at high speed in the narrow and long hoistway, which will produce aerodynamic noise with the car enclosure and the hoistway walls, thus affecting ride comfort. In order to put forward better noise reduction measures, a piston wind model of super high-speed elevator with ventilation holes during the whole operation process was established firstly in this paper. Then, based on this theoretical model, the influence of the variation of ventilation-hole area, hoistway blockage ratio and car length on the piston wind was analysed separately. The analysis proved that the larger the area of ventilation holes, the more obvious the weakening of piston wind was when the building code permits. With the increase of blockage ratio, the intensity of piston wind increases obviously, but the duration of maximum piston wind does not change obviously. As the length of the car increases, there is no significant change in the movement of the piston wind, and this small change can be ignored in engineering applications.
Cutting Simulation Analysis of the Cutter Head of the Shield Machine
Authors: Zhao Jingnan , Si Xuekang , Guo Jian , Ma Xiaolei , Chen Yuzhao , Li Zichao , Dong Yinghuai
Published: June 2019

In the process of shield machine tunneling, the interaction between cutter head and soil is very complex. In order to meet the requirements of tunneling, the cutter head was designed according to the construction conditions of Tianjin metro and the Archimedes spiral layout method. The granite model and cutter head model were respectively established by the ABAQUS. The granite model was based on the classic Drucker - Pragel model, and the failure criterion including element deletion function was employ to simulate the yield and failure of rock. The force of the cutter head under cutting condition was analyzed. The results show that the maximum equivalent stress of the cutter head is 8.216950 MPa, and the allowable stress of the cutter head material is 230 MPa, which was less than the allowable stress of the cutter head. The results indicated that the cutter head can meet the actual work requirements and has high structural reliability. The research process of cutter head arrangement provides a method for solving practical engineering problems, and the numerical simulation results provide a reference for the design of cutter head.
Robust Control of High-Speed Elevator Transverse Vibration Based on LMI Optimization
Authors: Cao Shunxin , He Qin , Zhang Ruijun
Published: June 2019

Aiming at the problem of transverse vibration of high-speed elevator caused by surface roughness excitation of guide rail and relative motion between car and car frame, firstly, this paper establishes an eight-degree-of-freedom active control model for the transverse vibration of the high-speed elevator separated of car from the car frame. Secondly, the transverse vibration state equation of the high-speed elevator is derived. The H
2 norm is used to minimize the vibration acceleration of the car system. Based on Linear matrix inequality (LMI) optimization technology, a robust controller for the high-speed elevator is designed. Finally, the robust controller is solved by MATLAB and its simulation analysis is carried out. The results show that the vibration of the car and the car frame is inconsistent in actual operation. At the same time, the simulation results also show that the root mean square value, mean value and maximum value of the acceleration of the transverse vibration of the car and the car frame are reduced by more than 19% after using the robust controller. Therefore, the robust controller designed in this paper can effectively suppress the transverse vibration of the vibration car system.
Simulation and Optimization of Temperature Field in Large-Sized MOCVD Reactor by Resistance Heating
Authors: Zhao Lili , Li Zhiming , Guo Runqiu , Feng Lansheng , Lu Ligen , Fu Xiaoqian
Published: June 2019

The effect of the number of layers and the length of the heat shields on the heating efficiency and temperature distributions in the substrate have been studied by establishing the model of a single-piece 18-inch MOCVD reactor. The results show that the number of layers of the heat shields is directly proportional to the heating efficiency, decreasing the length of the thermal shield can reduce the standard deviation(STD) of the substrate temperature. When the length of the heat shields is 56mm, the coefficient of substrate temperature STD is 21.41 °C and the STD is about 45% lower than the traditional susceptor. An area within substrate radius of 200mm, the coefficient of substrate temperature STD is 2.64 °C and the STD is about 93% lower than the traditional susceptor. The results obtained will provide theoretical basis for developing the heating structure of large-sized MOCVD reactor.
Study on Atomization Characteristics of Nozzles in Wet Electrostatic Precipitator
Authors: Xiao Lichun , Wang Xin , Wei Yongpeng , Zhang Meng , Wang Yuchuan
Published: June 2019

Wet electrostatic precipitator (ESP) has been paid more and more attention because of its good collection effect on fine particles in coal-fired power plants. Spraying system is an important part of the wet ESP and its atomization characteristics has an important influence on the collection efficiency. The atomization performance of solid and hollow nozzles was tested under varying pressure. The dust collection efficiency of wet ESP affected by atomization parameters and corona discharge characteristics were studied. Dust removal experiments were carried out by using fly ash from coal-fired power plants. Results show that the best working water pressure of ESP is 0.6 MPa and the atomization effect is best at the same time. Under the same conditions, the dust collection efficiency increased with the decrease of droplets’ diameter and the increase of spray water flow rate. When the droplets’ size is 70 μm, the dust collection efficiency can reach 99.57%, which can meet the high efficiency of fine particles removal in coal-fired power plants.
Design and Analysis of A Multifunctional Wheelchair
Authors: Rui Jin , Gao Qiang
Published: June 2019

Based on existing designs of multifunctional wheelchairs, a new wheelchair designed with body posture adjustment function is proposed to satisfy the needs of the elderly and the disabled. This paper shows the overall design of the wheelchair and the establishment of its 3D model at first; then, the kinematics analysis of the wheelchair’s backrest adjustment mechanism, and verifying the smoothness of its reclining process with establishing a virtual wheelchair prototype for motion simulation in ADAMS; finally, finite element analysis of key components of the wheelchair to make sure their requirements of structural strength.
Numerical Simulation of Deflagration to Detonation Transition in High-Energy Propellant
Authors: Wang Zhuo-qun , Wang Li-qiong , Zhen Fei
Published: June 2019

The deflagration to detonation transition model was established based on AUTODYN/ANSYS to simulate the process of DDT and provide a basis for the safety analysis of high-energy propellant. The process of DDT was numerically simulated by the ignition and growth reactive flow model and ALE method. The detonation pressure, detonation velocity, the run distance and time to detonation were calculated. The simulating results indicate that the detonation velocity is about 2899m/s, the run distance to detonation is about 138.3mm when the density of propellant is 1860kg/m3. The numerical results are in a good agreement with the experimental results.
Self-breathing Technology for Spacecraft Packaging Container Gas Drying Method
Authors: Zhu Yahong , Li Xiaohuan , Meng Shaohua , Zhang Chengli
Published: June 2019

The self-balancing method of packing container is to connect the packing container with the outside world to achieve pressure balance. The gas entering the packing container has been filtered and dried, and the technology of gas filtration has been mature. Under the open environment, the hygroscopicity of hygroscopicity agent needs to be tested. This paper introduces the requirement of hygroscopicant and the test of hygroscopicant under restraint condition, which is used in the design of self-balancing packaging equipment.
Thermal Analysis and Simulation of Cryopump Based on CFD Method
Authors: Zhao Yueshuai , Sun Lichen , Sun Wei , Shao Rongping
Published: June 2019

Based on CFD method, thermal design and numerical simulation of cryopump first array and second array was performed during the cool-down period and the steady state. The analysis of the temperature distribution of the cryopump was made under various conditions, such as operating conditions, the setting of the thermal rods and the thickness of the radiation shield. The const thermal property and variable thermal property was used in this paper to calculate the cool-down process of the cryopump, the effect of the first array structure was also taken into account. Some important results with typical parameters are: The temperature difference of the first array of the cryopump is greatly affected by the working conditions, especially when facing the room temperature vacuum system, the main heat load is concentrated on the baffle; A variable thickness bottom plate can be used to reduce the overall temperature change of the cryopump; The setting of the thermal rods is very useful to reduce the temperature change of the cryopump; The setting of the thermal rods is preferably close to the center of the baffle; If the variable property was not considered, the deviation of the cool-down time is about 24%.
Sliding Mode Control Algorithm for Regenerative Braking of an Electric Bus with a Pneumatic Anti-lock Braking System
Authors: Zhao Yiming , Zhang Junzhi , Li Chao , He Chengkun
Published: June 2019

Equipped with regenerative braking system, electric vehicles have the function of coordinating regenerative braking and friction braking simultaneously in normal braking situations. However, the usual operation is withdrawing the regenerative braking when the anti-lock braking system (ABS) is triggered. In order to make full use of regenerative braking, this article focuses on the cooperative control between the regenerative braking and the pneumatic friction braking during emergency stops. A sliding mode control (SMC) algorithm for regenerative braking is proposed to control the electric motor and help improve the braking performance and braking comfort. The proposed control algorithm is validated in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. A maximum mean deceleration of 25.3% is achieved and the stopping distance is shortened by 13.2m comparing to the pure pneumatic ABS on the wet gravel road, which verifies the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed control algorithm greatly.
vulcanSpot: a tool to prioritize therapeutic vulnerabilities in cancer
Authors: Perales-Patón Javier , Di Domenico Tomás , Fustero-Torre Coral , Piñeiro-Yáñez Elena , Carretero-Puche Carlos , Tejero Héctor , Valencia Alfonso , Gómez-López Gonzalo , Al-Shahrour Fátima
Published: June 2019

Motivation

Genetic alterations lead to tumor progression and cell survival but also uncover cancer-specific vulnerabilities on gene dependencies that can be therapeutically exploited.

Results

vulcanSpot is a novel computational approach implemented to expand the therapeutic options in cancer beyond known-driver genes unlocking alternative ways to target undruggable genes. The method integrates genome-wide information provided by massive screening experiments to detect genetic vulnerabilities associated to tumors. Then, vulcanSpot prioritizes drugs to target cancer-specific gene dependencies using a weighted scoring system based on well known drug-gene relationships and drug repositioning strategies.

Availability and implementation

http://www.vulcanspot.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Impaired reward-related learning signals in remitted unmedicated patients with recurrent depression
Authors: Geugies Hanneke , Mocking Roel J T , Figueroa Caroline A , Groot Paul F C , Marsman Jan-Bernard C , Servaas Michelle N , Steele J Douglas , Schene Aart H , Ruhé Henricus G
Published: June 2019

One of the core symptoms of major depressive disorder is anhedonia, an inability to experience pleasure. In patients with major depressive disorder, a dysfunctional reward-system may exist, with blunted temporal difference reward-related learning signals in the ventral striatum and increased temporal difference-related (dopaminergic) activation in the ventral tegmental area. Anhedonia often remains as residual symptom during remission; however, it remains largely unknown whether the abovementioned reward systems are still dysfunctional when patients are in remission. We used a Pavlovian classical conditioning functional MRI task to explore the relationship between anhedonia and the temporal difference-related response of the ventral tegmental area and ventral striatum in medication-free remitted recurrent depression patients (n = 36) versus healthy control subjects (n = 27). Computational modelling was used to obtain the expected temporal difference errors during this task. Patients, compared to healthy controls, showed significantly increased temporal difference reward learning activation in the ventral tegmental area (PFWE,SVC = 0.028). No differences were observed between groups for ventral striatum activity. A group × anhedonia interaction [t(57) = −2.29, P = 0.026] indicated that in patients, higher anhedonia was associated with lower temporal difference activation in the ventral tegmental area, while in healthy controls higher anhedonia was associated with higher ventral tegmental area activation. These findings suggest impaired reward-related learning signals in the ventral tegmental area during remission in patients with depression. This merits further investigation to identify impaired reward-related learning as an endophenotype for recurrent depression. Moreover, the inverse association between reinforcement learning and anhedonia in patients implies an additional disturbing influence of anhedonia on reward-related learning or vice versa, suggesting that the level of anhedonia should be considered in behavioural treatments.
The secreted matrix protein mindin increases prostate tumor progression and tumor-bone crosstalk via ERK 1/2 regulation
Authors: Ardura Juan A , Gutiérrez-Rojas Irene , Álvarez-Carrión Luis , Rodríguez-Ramos M Rosario , Pozuelo José M , Alonso Verónica
Published: June 2019

Advanced prostate cancer cells preferentially metastasize to bone by acquiring a bone phenotype that allows metastatic cells to thrive in the skeletal environment. Identification of factors that promote the expression of ectopic bone genes—process known as osteomimicry—leading to tumor progression is crucial to prevent and treat metastatic prostate cancer and prolong life expectancy for patients. Here, we identify the extracelular matrix protein mindin in the secretome of prostate adenocarcinoma cells and show that mindin overexpression in human and mouse TRAMP-C1-induced prostate tumors correlates with upregulated levels of bone-related genes in the tumorigenic prostate tissues. Moreover, mindin silencing decreased osteomimicry in adenocarcinoma cells and in the prostate tumor mice model, as well as reduced tumor cell proliferation, migration and adhesion to bone cells. Inhibition of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) phosphorylation decreased the proliferative, migratory and pro-adhesion actions of mindin on prostate tumor cells. In addition, conditioned media obtained by crosstalk stimulation of either osteocytes or osteoblasts with the secretome of TRAMP-C1 cells promoted osteomimicry in prostate tumor cells; an effect inhibited by mindin silencing of TRAMP-C1 cells. In vivo, tibiae of primary tumor-bearing mice overexpressed the pro-angiogenic and pro-metastattic factor vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in a mindin-dependent manner. Our findings indicate that mindin is a novel regulator of osteomimicry in prostate tumors and potentially mediates tumor-bone cell crosstalk, suggesting its promising role as a target to inhibit bone metastases.
Sex hormone-binding globulin suppresses NAFLD-triggered hepatocarcinogenesis after menopause
Authors: Lee Sang R , Lee Young Ho , Yang Hyun , Lee Hye Won , Lee Geun-Shik , An Beum-Soo , Jeung Eui-Bae , Park Bae-Keun , Hong Eui-Ju
Published: June 2019

It is generally accepted that androgen receptors increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and that estrogen reduces risk of HCC. Many studies regarding this have involved males. We, therefore, have focused our attention on females, especially postmenopausal females, who typically have limited supplies of estrogen. By using sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) transgenic mice, we produced a humanoid environment, and facilitated deposition and modulation of sex hormones. After exposure to diethylnitrosamine to induce HCC and upon reaching the age of 40 weeks, mice were fed the fat-rich diet for 5 months. Fat-rich diet fed or ovariectomized (OVX) wild-type mice aged 62 weeks showed HCC progression, whereas fat-rich diet fed SHBG mice or OVX SHBG mice displayed fewer tumors. In the liver of fat-rich diet fed SHBG mice, estrogenic conditions including high levels of 17β-estradiol and estrogen receptor alpha led to the induction of the lipogenesis inhibitor, phosphorylated acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and consequently suppressed fatty liver. The presence of plasma SHBG in HCC bearing mice suppressed the levels of steatosis and inflammation in a process mediated by estrogens and estrogen receptor alpha. Conversely, in the liver of OVX SHBG mice, lipogenic inhibition was also observed under conditions where the supply of estrogens is limited. Through in vitro experiment, it was confirmed SHBG suppresses lipogenesis via inhibition of acetyl-CoA carboxylase level. In conclusion, our results show that plasma SHBG might have a clinical impact on lipid-mediated hepatic diseases.
Together stronger: boundary work within an Australian systems-based prevention initiative
Authors: Roussy Véronique , Riley Therese , Livingstone Charles
Published: June 2019

Complexity and systems science are increasingly used to devise interventions to address health and social problems. Boundaries are important in systems thinking, as they bring attention to the power dynamics that guide decision-making around the framing of a situation, and how it is subsequently tackled. Using complexity theory as an analytical frame, this qualitative exploratory study examined boundary interactions between local government and community health organizations during the operationalization of a systems-based initiative to prevent obesity and chronic diseases (Healthy Together Communities—HTCs) in Victoria, Australia. Across two HTC sites, data was generated through semi-structured interviews with 20 key informants, in mid-2015. Template analysis based on properties of complex systems was applied to the data. The dynamics of boundary work are explored using three case illustrations: alignment, boundary spanning and boundary permeability. Alignment was both a process and an outcome of boundary work, and occurred at strategic, operational and individual levels. Boundary spanning was an important mechanism to develop a unified collaborative approach, and ensure that mainstream initiatives reached disadvantaged groups. Finally, some boundaries exhibited different levels of permeability for local government and community health organizations. This influenced how each organization could contribute to HTC interventions in unique, yet complementary ways. The study of boundary work offers potential for understanding the mechanisms that contribute to the nonlinear behaviour of complex systems. The complementarity of partnering organizations, and boundary dynamics should be considered when designing and operationalizing multilevel, complex systems-informed prevention initiatives.