bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correction of Light Scattering-Based Total Suspended Particulate Measurements through Machine Learning
Authors: Guo Qiaofeng , Zhu Zhu , Cheng Zhen , Xu Shuhong , Wang Xiaoliang , Duan Yusen
Published: January 2020

Instruments based on light scattering used to measure total suspended particulate (TSP) concentrations have the advantages of fast response, small size, and low cost compared to the gravimetric reference method. However, the relationship between scattering intensity and TSP mass concentration varies nonlinearly with both environmental conditions and particle properties, making it difficult to make corrections. This study applied four machine learning models (support vector machines, random forest, gradient boosting regression trees, and an artificial neural network) to correct scattering measurements for TSP mass concentrations. A total of 1141 hourly records of collocated gravimetric and light scattering measurements taken at 17 urban sites in Shanghai, China were used for model training and validation. All four machine learning models improved the linear regressions between scattering and gravimetric mass by increasing slopes from 0.4 to 0.9–1.1 and coefficients of determination from 0.1 to 0.8–0.9. Partial dependence plots indicate that TSP concentrations determined by light scattering instruments increased continuously in the PM2.5 concentration range of ~0–80 µg/m3; however, they leveled off above PM10 and TSP concentrations of ~60 and 200 µg/m3, respectively. The TSP mass concentrations determined by scattering showed an exponential growth after relative humidity exceeded 70%, in agreement with previous studies on the hygroscopic growth of fine particles. This study demonstrates that machine learning models can effectively improve the correlation between light scattering measurements and TSP mass concentrations with filter-based methods. Interpretation analysis further provides scientific insights into the major factors (e.g., hygroscopic growth) that cause scattering measurements to deviate from TSP mass concentrations besides other factors like fluctuation of mass density and refractive index.
An Automatic Recognition Method for Airflow Field Structures of Convective Systems Based on Single Doppler Radar Data
Authors: Wang Ping , Gu Kai , Hou Jinyi , Dou Bingjie
Published: January 2020

Airflow structures within convective systems are important predictors of damaging convective disasters. To automatically recognize different kinds of airflow structures (the convergence, divergence, cyclonic rotation, and anticyclonic rotation) within convective systems, an airflow structure recognition method is proposed, in this paper, based on a regular hexagonal template. On the basis of single Doppler radar data, the template is designed according to the appearance model of airflows in radial velocity maps. The proposed method is able to output types and intensities of airflow structures within convective systems. In addition, the outputs of the proposed method are integrated into a projection map of the airflow field structure types and intensities (PMAFSTI), which is developed in this work to visualize three-dimensional airflow structures within convective cells. The proposed airflow structure automatic recognition method and the PMAFSTI were tested using three typical cases. Results of the tests suggest the following: (1) At different evolution stages of the convective systems, e.g., growth, split, and dissipation, the three-dimensional distribution of the airflow fields within convective systems could be clearly observed through the PMAFSTI and (2) on the basis of recognizing the structures of the airflow field, the complex airflow field, such as a squall line, could be further divided into several small parts making the analysis of convective systems more scientific and elaborate.
Centrifugation Force and Time Alter CASA Parameters and Oxidative Status of Cryopreserved Stallion Sperm
Authors: Marzano Giuseppina , Moscatelli Natalina , Di Giacomo Mariangela , Martino Nicola Antonio , Lacalandra Giovanni Michele , Dell’Aquila Maria Elena , Maruccio Giuseppe , Primiceri Elisabetta , Chiriacò Maria Serena , Zara Vincenzo , Ferramosca Alessandra
Published: January 2020

Conventional sperm selection techniques used in ARTs rely on centrifugation steps. To date, the different studies reported on the effects of centrifugation on stallion sperm motility provided contrasting results and do not include effects on mitochondrial functionality and different oxidative parameters. The effects of different centrifugation protocols (300× g for 5′, 300× g for 10′, 1500× g for 5′ and 1500× g for 10′ vs. no centrifugation) on motility and oxidative status in cryopreserved stallion sperm, were analyzed. After centrifugation, almost all motility parameters were significantly altered, as observed by computer-assisted sperm analysis. A polarographic assay of oxygen consumption showed a progressive decrease in mitochondria respiration from the gentlest to the strongest protocol. By laser scanning confocal microscopy, significant reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, at any tested protocol, and time-dependent effects, at the same centrifugal force, were found. Increased DNA fragmentation index at any tested protocol and time-dependent effects at the same centrifugal force were found, whereas increased protein carbonylation was observed only at the strongest centrifugal force. These results provide more comprehensive understandings on centrifugation-induced effects on cryopreserved stallion sperm and suggest that, even at a weak force for a short time, centrifugation impairs different aspects of equine sperm metabolism and functionality.
Structure–Activity Relationship of HER2 Receptor Targeting Peptide and Its Derivatives in Targeted Tumor Therapy
Authors: Biri-Kovács Beáta , Adorján Afrodité , Szabó Ildikó , Szeder Bálint , Bősze Szilvia , Mező Gábor
Published: January 2020

Human epidermal growth factor (HER2) is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor that is frequently overexpressed in breast cancer. Its increased level prognoses a poor patient outcome and a high mortality rate. Despite the widening spectrum of therapies that are becoming available to treat HER2+ breast cancer, its side effects and resistance still make this protein a valuable object of research in targeted tumor therapy. The role of tumor-targeting peptides has become more and more prominent in the last few decades due to their simple synthesis and pharmakokinetic properties. Here, we examine two fluorescently-labeled HER2-specific peptides and their combined analogues that are developed to target the extracellular region of HER2. The peptides are investigated on breast cancer cell lines with different HER2 expression profiles. Moreover, their extracellular localization and specificity are confirmed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Therefore, a new, combined HER2 binding conjugate is obtained that interacts with HER2-overexpressing cells with high affinity and specificity. Furthermore, secondary structure prediction reveals that the α-helical content of the peptides is associated with their receptor recognition. This highly specific conjugate can be used as a starting point for diagnostical or drug-targeting purposes in upcoming studies.
Involvement of Centrally Projecting Edinger–Westphal Nucleus Neuropeptides in Actions of Addictive Drugs
Authors: Zuniga Alfredo , Ryabinin Andrey E
Published: January 2020

The centrally-projecting Edinger–Westphal nucleus (EWcp) is a brain region distinct from the preganglionic Edinger–Westphal nucleus (EWpg). In contrast to the EWpg, the EWcp does not send projections to the ciliary ganglion and appears not to regulate oculomotor function. Instead, evidence is accumulating that the EWcp is extremely sensitive to alcohol and several other drugs of abuse. Studies using surgical, genetic knockout, and shRNA approaches further implicate the EWcp in the regulation of alcohol sensitivity and self-administration. The EWcp is also known as the site of preferential expression of urocortin 1, a peptide of the corticotropin-releasing factor family. However, neuroanatomical data indicate that the EWcp is not a monotypic brain region and consists of several distinct subpopulations of neurons. It is most likely that these subpopulations of the EWcp are differentially involved in the regulation of actions of addictive drugs. This review summarizes and analyzes the current literature of the EWcp’s involvement in actions of drugs of abuse in male and female subjects in light of the accumulating evidence of complexities of this brain region.
The Spectrum of FANCM Protein Truncating Variants in European Breast Cancer Cases
Authors: Figlioli Gisella , Kvist Anders , Tham Emma , Soukupova Jana , Kleiblova Petra , Muranen Taru , Andrieu Nadine , Azzollini Jacopo , Balmaña Judith , Barroso Alicia , Benítez Javier , Bertelsen Birgitte , Blanco Ana , Bonanni Bernardo , Borg Åke , Brunet Joan , Calistri Daniele , Calvello Mariarosaria , Chvojka Stepan , Cortesi Laura , Darder Esther , Del Valle Jesús , Diez Orland , Consortium ENIGMA , Eon-Marchais Séverine , Fostira Florentia ,   GENESIS Study Collaborators, Gensini Francesca , Houdayer Claude , Janatova Marketa , Kiiski Johanna , Konstantopoulou Irene , Kubelka-Sabit Katerina , Lázaro Conxi , Lesueur Fabienne , Manoukian Siranoush , Marcinkute Ruta , Mickys Ugnius , Moncoutier Virginie ,   SWE-BRCA Group, Myszka Aleksander , Nguyen-Dumont Tu , Nielsen Finn , Norvilas Rimvydas , Olah Edith , Osorio Ana , Papi Laura , Peissel Bernard , Peixoto Ana , Plaseska-Karanfilska Dijana , Pócza Timea , Rossing Maria , Rudaitis Vilius , Santamariña Marta , Santos Catarina , Smichkoska Snezhana , Southey Melissa , Stoppa-Lyonnet Dominique , Teixeira Manuel , Törngren Therese , Toss Angela , Urioste Miguel , Vega Ana , Vlckova Zdenka , Yannoukakos Drakoulis , Zampiga Valentina , Kleibl Zdenek , Radice Paolo , Nevanlinna Heli , Ehrencrona Hans , Janavicius Ramunas , Peterlongo Paolo
Published: January 2020

Germline protein truncating variants (PTVs) in the FANCM gene have been associated with a 2–4-fold increased breast cancer risk in case-control studies conducted in different European populations. However, the distribution and the frequency of FANCM PTVs in Europe have never been investigated. In the present study, we collected the data of 114 European female breast cancer cases with FANCM PTVs ascertained in 20 centers from 13 European countries. We identified 27 different FANCM PTVs. The p.Gln1701* PTV is the most common PTV in Northern Europe with a maximum frequency in Finland and a lower relative frequency in Southern Europe. On the contrary, p.Arg1931* seems to be the most common PTV in Southern Europe. We also showed that p.Arg658*, the third most common PTV, is more frequent in Central Europe, and p.Gln498Thrfs*7 is probably a founder variant from Lithuania. Of the 23 rare or unique FANCM PTVs, 15 have not been previously reported. We provide here the initial spectrum of FANCM PTVs in European breast cancer cases.
Toll-like Receptors from the Perspective of Cancer Treatment
Authors: Javaid Nasir , Choi Sangdun
Published: January 2020

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent a family of pattern recognition receptors that recognize certain pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns. TLRs are highly interesting to researchers including immunologists because of the involvement in various diseases including cancers, allergies, autoimmunity, infections, and inflammation. After ligand engagement, TLRs trigger multiple signaling pathways involving nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), interferon-regulatory factors (IRFs), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) for the production of various cytokines that play an important role in diseases like cancer. TLR activation in immune as well as cancer cells may prevent the formation and growth of a tumor. Nonetheless, under certain conditions, either hyperactivation or hypoactivation of TLRs supports the survival and metastasis of a tumor. Therefore, the design of TLR-targeting agonists as well as antagonists is a promising immunotherapeutic approach to cancer. In this review, we mainly describe TLRs, their involvement in cancer, and their promising properties for anticancer drug discovery.
Ribonucleic Acid Engineering of Dendritic Cells for Therapeutic Vaccination: Ready ‘N Able to Improve Clinical Outcome?
Authors: Willemen Yannick , Versteven Maarten , Peeters Marc , Berneman Zwi N. , Smits Evelien L. J.
Published: January 2020

Targeting and exploiting the immune system has become a valid alternative to conventional options for treating cancer and infectious disease. Dendritic cells (DCs) take a central place given their role as key orchestrators of immunity. Therapeutic vaccination with autologous DCs aims to stimulate the patient’s own immune system to specifically target his/her disease and has proven to be an effective form of immunotherapy with very little toxicity. A great amount of research in this field has concentrated on engineering these DCs through ribonucleic acid (RNA) to improve vaccine efficacy and thereby the historically low response rates. We reviewed in depth the 52 clinical trials that have been published on RNA-engineered DC vaccination, spanning from 2001 to date and reporting on 696 different vaccinated patients. While ambiguity prevents reliable quantification of effects, these trials do provide evidence that RNA-modified DC vaccination can induce objective clinical responses and survival benefit in cancer patients through stimulation of anti-cancer immunity, without significant toxicity. Succinct background knowledge of RNA engineering strategies and concise conclusions from available clinical and recent preclinical evidence will help guide future research in the larger domain of DC immunotherapy.
Dynamic Changes in Function and Proteomic Composition of Extracellular Vesicles from Hepatic Stellate Cells during Cellular Activation
Authors: Li Xinlei , Chen Ruju , Kemper Sherri , Brigstock David R
Published: January 2020

During chronic liver injury, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) undergo activation and are the principal cellular source of collagenous scar. In this study, we found that activation of mouse HSC (mHSC) was associated with a 4.5-fold increase in extracellular vesicle (EV) production and that fibrogenic gene expression (CCN2, Col1a1) was suppressed in Passage 1 (P1; activated) mHSC exposed to EVs from Day 4 (D4; relatively quiescent) mHSC but not to EVs from P1 mHSC. Conversely, gene expression (CCN2, Col1a1, αSMA) in D4 mHSC was stimulated by EVs from P1 mHSC but not by EVs from D4 mHSC. EVs from Day 4 mHSC contained only 46 proteins in which histones and keratins predominated, while EVs from P1 mHSC contained 337 proteins and these were principally associated with extracellular spaces or matrix, proteasome, collagens, vesicular transport, metabolic enzymes, ribosomes and chaperones. EVs from the activated LX-2 human HSC (hHSC) line also promoted fibrogenic gene expression in D4 mHSC in vitro and contained 524 proteins, many of which shared identity or had functional overlap with those in P1 mHSC EVs. The activation-associated changes in production, function and protein content of EVs from HSC likely contribute to the regulation of HSC function in vivo and to the fine-tuning of fibrogenic pathways in the liver.
Tumor-Educated Platelets and Angiogenesis in Glioblastoma: Another Brick in the Wall for Novel Prognostic and Targetable Biomarkers, Changing the Vision from a Localized Tumor to a Systemic Pathology
Authors: Campanella Rolando , Guarnaccia Laura , Cordiglieri Chiara , Trombetta Elena , Caroli Manuela , Carrabba Giorgio , La Verde Nicla , Rampini Paolo , Gaudino Chiara , Costa Antonella , Luzzi Sabino , Mantovani Giovanna , Locatelli Marco , Riboni Laura , Navone Stefania Elena , Marfia Giovanni
Published: January 2020

Circulating platelets (PLTs) are able to affect glioblastoma (GBM) microenvironment by supplying oncopromoter and pro-angiogenic factors. Among these mediators, sphingosine-1-phophate (S1P) has emerged as a potent bioactive lipid enhancing cell proliferation and survival. Here, we investigated the effect of “tumor education”, characterizing PLTs from GBM patients in terms of activation state, protein content, and pro-angiogenic potential. PLTs from healthy donors (HD-PLTs) and GBM patients (GBM-PLTs) were collected, activated, and analyzed by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. To assess the pro-angiogenic contribution of GBM-PLTs, a functional cord formation assay was performed on GBM endothelial cells (GECs) with PLT-releasate. GBM-PLTs expressed higher positivity for P-selectin compared to HD-PLTs, both in basal conditions and after stimulation with adenosine triphosphate (ADP) and thrombin receptor activating peptide (TRAP). PLTs showed higher expression of VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, VWF, S1P, S1PR1, SphK1, and SPNS. Interestingly, increased concentrations of VEGF and its receptors VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, VWF, and S1P were found in GBM-PLT-releasate with respect to HD-PLTs. Finally, GBM-PLT-releasate showed a pro-angiogenic effect on GECs, increasing the vascular network’s complexity. Overall, our results demonstrated the contribution of PLTs to GBM angiogenesis and aggressiveness, advancing the potential of an anti-PLT therapy and the usefulness of PLT cargo as predictive and monitoring biomarkers.
Identification of Novel Rare ABCC1 Transporter Mutations in Tumor Biopsies of Cancer Patients
Authors: Kadioglu Onat , Saeed Mohamed , Munder Markus , Spuller Andreas , Greten Henry Johannes , Efferth Thomas
Published: January 2020

The efficiency of chemotherapy drugs can be affected by ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter expression or by their mutation status. Multidrug resistance is linked with ABC transporter overexpression. In the present study, we performed rare mutation analyses for 12 ABC transporters related to drug resistance (ABCA2, -A3, -B1, -B2, -B5, -C1, -C2, -C3, -C4, -C5, -C6, -G2) in a dataset of 18 cancer patients. We focused on rare mutations resembling tumor heterogeneity of ABC transporters in small tumor subpopulations. Novel rare mutations were found in ABCC1, but not in the other ABC transporters investigated. Diverse ABCC1 mutations were found, including nonsense mutations causing premature stop codons, and compared with the wild-type protein in terms of their protein structure. Nonsense mutations lead to truncated protein structures. Molecular docking and heat map analyses of ABCC1/MRP1 pointed out that Lys498* appeared in a separate cluster branch due to the large deletion, leading to a massive disruption in the protein conformation. The resulting proteins, which are nonfunctional due to nonsense mutations in tumors, offer a promising chemotherapy strategy since tumors with nonsense mutations may be more sensitive to anticancer drugs than wild-type ABCC1-expressing tumors. This could provide a novel tumor-specific toxicity strategy and a way to overcome drug resistance.
Tissue Engineering in Liver Regenerative Medicine: Insights into Novel Translational Technologies
Authors: Heydari Zahra , Najimi Mustapha , Mirzaei Hamed , Shpichka Anastasia , Ruoss Marc , Farzaneh Zahra , Montazeri Leila , Piryaei Abbas , Timashev Peter , Gramignoli Roberto , Nussler Andreas , Baharvand Hossein , Vosough Massoud
Published: January 2020

Organ and tissue shortage are known as a crucially important public health problem as unfortunately a small percentage of patients receive transplants. In the context of emerging regenerative medicine, researchers are trying to regenerate and replace different organs and tissues such as the liver, heart, skin, and kidney. Liver tissue engineering (TE) enables us to reproduce and restore liver functions, fully or partially, which could be used in the treatment of acute or chronic liver disorders and/or generate an appropriate functional organ which can be transplanted or employed as an extracorporeal device. In this regard, a variety of techniques (e.g., fabrication technologies, cell-based technologies, microfluidic systems and, extracorporeal liver devices) could be applied in tissue engineering in liver regenerative medicine. Common TE techniques are based on allocating stem cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells or primary hepatocytes within a three-dimensional structure which leads to the improvement of their survival rate and functional phenotype. Taken together, new findings indicated that developing liver tissue engineering-based techniques could pave the way for better treatment of liver-related disorders. Herein, we summarized novel technologies used in liver regenerative medicine and their future applications in clinical settings.
Potential Role of DEC1 in Cervical Cancer Cells Involving Overexpression and Apoptosis
Authors: Sato Fuyuki , Bhawal Ujjal K. , Sugiyama Nao , Osaki Shoko , Oikawa Kosuke , Muragaki Yasuteru
Published: January 2020

Basic helix-loop-helix (BHLH) transcription factors differentiated embryonic chondrocyte gene 1 (DEC1) and gene 2 (DEC2) regulate circadian rhythms, apoptosis, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasions and metastases in various kinds of cancer. The stem cell markers SOX2 and c-MYC are involved in the regulation of apoptosis and poor prognosis. In cervical cancer, however, their roles are not well elucidated yet. To determine the function of these genes in human cervical cancer, we examined the expression of DEC1, DEC2, SOX2 and c-MYC in human cervical cancer tissues. In immunohistochemistry, they were strongly expressed in cancer cells compared with in non-cancerous cells. Notably, the strong rate of DEC1 and SOX2 expressions were over 80% among 20 cases. We further examined the roles of DEC1 and DEC2 in apoptosis. Human cervical cancer HeLa and SiHa cells were treated with cisplatin—HeLa cells were sensitive to apoptosis, but SiHa cells were resistant. DEC1 expression decreased in the cisplatin-treated HeLa cells, but had little effect on SiHa cells. Combination treatment of DEC1 overexpression and cisplatin inhibited apoptosis and affected SOX2 and c-MYC expressions in HeLa cells. Meanwhile, DEC2 overexpression had little effect on apoptosis and on SOX2 and c-MYC expressions. We conclude that DEC1 has anti-apoptotic effects and regulates SOX2 and c-MYC expressions on apoptosis.
Superhydrophobic Surface with Gamma Irradiation Resistance and Self-Cleaning Effect in Air and Oil
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Jing , Liu Yujian
Published: January 2020

A superhydrophobic surface was synthesized by a combination of an epoxy/polymethylphenylsiloxane matrix and dual-scale morphology of silica (SiO2) nanoparticles. When the amount of SiO2 reached 30 wt.%, the as-prepared surface showed a high static water contact angle (WCA) of 154° and a low sliding angle (SA) of 5°, excellent water repellency, and dirt-removal effects both in air and oil (hexamethylene). Even after exposure to as high as a 12.30 Mrad dose of gamma-rays, the composite surface still maintained its superior performance.
Repetitive Impact Wear Behaviors of the Tempered 25Cr3Mo2NiWV Fe-Based Steel
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Li Pu , Dong Hui , Jin Dongliang , Huang Jinfeng , Mao Feng , Chen Chong
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to reveal the impact wear behaviors of tempered 25Cr3Mo2NiWV steel. The specimens were subject to various heat treatment processes for generating different mechanical and wear properties. The impact wear tests were performed with an MLD-10 dynamic abrasive wear tester. Worn surface morphologies and micro-cracks of the cross-sections were analyzed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The Vickers hardness of the sample and the impact wear mechanism were also analyzed. The steel with the best combination of hardness and toughness had the lowest wear. With the increase of wear time, the dominant wear mechanism varied from slight plastic deformation to micro-cutting and adhesive wear. Finally, micro fatigue peeling occurred. After impact wear, the cracks could initiate from the surface or the sub-surface. Micrographs of the crack in the cross-section demonstrated two different propagation modes of fatigue fractures. The results showed that the strength and toughness of steel affected the crack propagation, surface spalling, and wear failure mechanism during impact wear.
Improving Convergence Analysis of the Newton–Kurchatov Method under Weak Conditions
Authors: Argyros Ioannis K. , Shakhno Stepan , Yarmola Halyna
Published: January 2020

The technique of using the restricted convergence region is applied to study a semilocal convergence of the Newton–Kurchatov method. The analysis is provided under weak conditions for the derivatives and the first order divided differences. Consequently, weaker sufficient convergence criteria and more accurate error estimates are retrieved. A special case of weak conditions is also considered.
Fabry-Perot Cavity Leaky Wave Antennas with Tunable Features for Terahertz Applications
Authors: Tofani Silvia , Fuscaldo Walter
Published: January 2020

Terahertz (THz) radiation is a very appealing band of the electromagnetic spectrum due to its practical applications. In this context, the THz generation and manipulation is an essential part of the technological development. The demand of THz antennas is still high because it is already difficult to obtain directive, efficient, planar, low-cost, and easy-to-fabricate THz radiating systems. In this regard, Fabry-Perot cavity leaky-wave antennas are gaining increasing attention at THz, due to their very interesting radiating features: the combination of planar designs with metamaterials and metasurfaces could offer a promising platform for future THz manipulation technologies. In this short review, we focus on different classes of leaky-wave antennas, based on materials with tunable quasi-optical parameters. The possibility of producing directive patterns with particularly good efficiencies, as well as the capability of dynamically reconfiguring their radiating features, are discussed by taking into account the risk of increasing costs and fabrication complexity.
Crystal Structure Dependence of the Energy Transfer from Tb(III) to Yb(III) in Metal–Organic Frameworks Based in Bispyrazolylpyridines
Authors: Martinez-Martin Paloma , Perles Josefina , Rodriguez-Ubis Juan Carlos
Published: January 2020

Luminescent mixed lanthanide metal−organic framwork (MOF) materials have been prepared from two polyheterocyclic diacid ligands, 2,6-bis(3-carboxy-1-pyrazolyl)pyridine and 2,6-bis(4-carboxy-1-pyrazolyl)pyridine. The crystal structures of the two organic molecules are presented together with the structures for the MOFs obtained by hydrothermal synthesis either with Yb(III) or mixed Tb(III)/Yb(III) ions. Different coordination architectures result from each ligand, revealing also important differences between the lanthanides. The mixed lanthanide metal−organic frameworks also present diverse luminescent behavior; in the case of 2,6-bis(4-carboxy-1-pyrazolyl)pyridine, where no coordinated water is present in the metal environment, Tb(III) and Yb(III) characteristic emission is observed by excitation of the bispyrazolylpyridine chromophore.
Numerical Model Study of Multiple Dendrite Motion Behavior in Melt Based on LBM-CA Method
Authors: Bai Yu , Wang Yingming , Zhang Shijie , Wang Qi , Li Ri
Published: January 2020

In this paper, a new method is proposed to solve the solute field of moving grains, and a Cellular automaton (CA)-Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM)-Semi rebound format(Ladd) coupling model which can accurately simulate the motion behavior of multiple dendrites is established. The growth process of microstructure in the solidification process of Al-4.7% Cu alloy ingot was calculated by Cellular automaton (CA) method, the momentum, heat, and mass transfer processes were calculated by Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), and the melt-dendrite sharp interface interaction was treated by Ladd method. The reliability of the model is verified, and then the growth and movement of single dendrite and multiple dendrites under the action of gravity field are simulated. The simulation results show that the growth and movement mode of multiple dendrites are quite different from that of single dendrite, which is shown in two aspects: (1) the original motion state of dendrites is changed by the combination of flow field, which slows down the falling speed of dendrites to a certain extent; (2) the fusion of solute field between dendrites changed the original growth mode of boundary dendrites and increased their rotation speed.
An Open-Access Dataset of Thorough QT Studies Results
Authors: Wiśniowska Barbara , Tylutki Zofia , Polak Sebastian
Published: January 2020

Along with the current interest in changes of cardiovascular risk assessment strategy and inclusion of in silico modelling into the applicable paradigm, the need for data has increased, both for model generation and testing. Data collection is often time-consuming but an inevitable step in the modelling process, requiring extensive literature searches and other identification of alternative resources providing complementary results. The next step, namely data extraction, can also be challenging. Here we present a collection of thorough QT/QTc (TQT) study results with detailed descriptions of study design, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic endpoints. The presented dataset provides information that can be further utilized to assess the predictive performance of different preclinical biomarkers for QT prolongation effects with the use of various modelling approaches. As the exposure levels and population description are included, the study design and characteristics of the study population can be recovered precisely in the simulation. Another possible application of the TQT dataset is the analysis of drug characteristic/QT prolongation/TdP (torsade de pointes) relationship after the integration of provided information with other databases and tools. This includes drug cardiac safety classifications (e.g., CredibleMeds), Comprehensive in vitro Proarrhythmia Assay (CiPA) compounds classification, as well as those containing information on physico-chemical properties or absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) data like PubChem or DrugBank.
Carbon Sequestration Rate Estimates in Delaware Bay and Barnegat Bay Tidal Wetlands Using Interpolation Mapping
Authors: Champlin Lena , Velinsky David , Tucker Kaitlin , Sommerfield Christopher , Laurent Kari St. , Watson Elizabeth
Published: January 2020

Quantifying carbon sequestration by tidal wetlands is important for the management of carbon stocks as part of climate change mitigation. This data publication includes a spatial analysis of carbon accumulation rates in Barnegat and Delaware Bay tidal wetlands. One method calculated long-term organic carbon accumulation rates from radioisotope-dated (Cs-137) sediment cores. The second method measured organic carbon density of sediment accumulated above feldspar marker beds. Carbon accumulation rates generated by these two methods were interpolated across emergent wetland areas, using kriging, with uncertainty estimated by leave-one-out cross validation. This spatial analysis revealed greater carbon sequestration within Delaware, compared to Barnegat Bay. Sequestration rates were found to be more variable within Delaware Bay, and rates were greatest in the tidal freshwater area of the upper bay.
Assessing the Costs of Screening for Ovarian Cancer in the United States: An Evolving Analysis
Authors: Gorski Justin W. , Quattrone McKell , van Nagell John R. , Pavlik Edward J.
Published: January 2020

The primary objective of this study is to provide an updated analysis of the cost of screening for ovarian cancer in the United States. Here, we use updated information from the University of Kentucky Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial in conjunction with new modifying factors such as U.S. national estimates of the cost of care (Truven Health MarketScan Database), recently published estimates of earnings lost due to ovarian cancer death and estimates of federal income taxes paid on those earnings. In total, 326,998 screens were performed during the Kentucky trial from 1987 to 2019. At a cost of $56 per screen, we estimate that the total base cost to operate the program over the last 32 years is $18,311,888. When accounting for the surgical cost of 381 false-positive cases, the total cost of the screening program increases by $3,030,474. However, these costs are offset by the benefit of treating more early-stage ovarian cancer in the screened population, with a total cost advantage of $4,016,475 at our institution (Kentucky) or $1,525,050 ($725,700–$3,312,650) (U.S.) nationally. Additionally, program costs are offset by approximately $3,549,000 due to the potential earnings gained by the 26 women whose lives have been saved with screening. Furthermore, the cost of the program is offset by the federal tax dollars paid on the recovered earnings and amounts to $383,292. Ultimately, the net adjusted total cost of the Kentucky screening program is an estimated $13,393,595 at our institution or $15,885,020 ($13,978,068–$16,799,083) nationally. Thus, the adjusted cost per screen is an estimated $40.96 in Kentucky or $48.58 ($42.75–$51.37) nationally.
Mass Spectrometry Evaluation of Biomarkers in the Vitreous Fluid in Gaucher Disease Type 3 with Disease Progression Despite Long-Term Treatment
Authors: Mhanni Aizeddin , Boutin Michel , Stockl Frank , Johnston Janine , Barnes Jeff , Duerksen Donald , Zimmer Leanne , Auray-Blais Christiane , Rockman-Greenberg Cheryl
Published: January 2020

Intraocular lesions have been infrequently reported in patients with Gaucher disease type 3 (GD3). We previously reported siblings with GD3 who responded well to the combination of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and substrate reduction therapy (SRT). Here we report progressive bilateral vitreous and preretinal deposits with declining visual acuity requiring bilateral vitrectomies in one of these siblings. These ocular manifestations had progressed despite combined ERT and SRT with improvement in visual acuity after vitrectomies. Vitrectomy fluid analysis performed for the first time by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) identified a high concentration of glucosylceramide (GluCer) in the patient (262.842 nM) compared to a sample (0.428 nM from a patient without a lysosomal storage or known hereditary metabolic disorder). The GluCer detected in our patient was resolved into 12 different isoforms including two methylated ones. No evidence of galactosylceramide (GalCer) was detected. The development of these intraocular manifestations and their characterization by UPLC-MS/MS indicate a need for ongoing ophthalmologic evaluation of all GD patients and for new therapies that can cross the blood–retinal and blood–brain barriers for patients with GD and other neuropathic lysosomal storage disorders.
University Student Satisfaction and Skill Acquisition: Evidence from the Undergraduate Dissertation
Authors: Martínez-Roget Fidel , Freire Esparís Pilar , Vázquez-Rozas Emilia
Published: January 2020

One of the main objectives of the Undergraduate Dissertation is to evaluate the skills associated with a degree. Student satisfaction with the training and skills acquired can be an indicator of the quality of higher education. This paper aims to analyse student satisfaction with Undergraduate Dissertation at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Based on a survey conducted among 130 students (75.7% of a total of 172 students who presented their UD during the academic year 2013–2014), structural equation modelling was applied to analyse the influence on satisfaction of aspects related to intellectual curiosity and the perception of acquired skills. The results show that the perception of the skills acquired play a crucial role in students’ satisfaction with Undergraduate Satisfaction, conditioned by their perceived future usefulness and backed by personality and motivation elements that encourage their acquisition. The results confirm the significant role played by the tutor, who emerges as an element that boosts the central relations of the model.
Dynamic Basic Activity Sequence Matching Method in Abnormal Driving Pattern Detection Using Smartphone Sensors
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Hau , Lu Dang-Nhac , Nguyen Duc-Nhan , Nguyen Ha-Nam
Published: January 2020

In this work, we present a novel method, namely dynamic basic activity sequence matching (DAS), a combination of machine learning methods and flexible threshold based methods for distinguishing normal and abnormal driving patterns. Indeed, DAS relies on the activity detection module (ADM) presented in our previous work to analyze each driving pattern as a sequence of basic activities—stopping (S), going straight (G), turning left (L), and turning right (R). In fact, the threshold value and other parameters like the duration of long and short activities are iteratively induced from the collected dataset. Hence, DAS is flexible and independent of driving contexts such as vehicle modes and road conditions. Experimental results, on the dataset collected from numerous motorcyclists, show the outperformance of our proposed method against dynamic time warping and the two popular machine learning methods—random forest and neural network—in distinguishing the normal and abnormal driving patterns. Moreover, we propose an efficient framework composing of two phases: in the first phase, the normal and abnormal driving patterns are distinguished by relying on DAS. In the second phase, the detected abnormal patterns are further classified into various specific abnormal driving patterns—weaving, sudden braking, etc. This fusion framework again achieves the highest overall accuracy of 97.94%.
Flux Weakening Control Technique without Look-Up Tables for SynRMs Based on Flux Saturation Models
Authors: Woo Tae-Gyeom , Lee Sang-Hoon , Lee Hak-Jun , Yoon Young-Doo
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a flux weakening algorithm for synchronous reluctance motors (SynRMs) based on parameters estimated at standstill. Recently, flux saturated motors have been studied. Flux saturation models were identified and look-up tables were generated based on the saturation model for maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) and flux weakening operations. The operation with tables would degrade the accuracy of operating points when the table size is not enough. The proposed method implements a flux weakening operation without tables, and the operating points are determined with voltages and currents on operating points. Therefore, the accuracy can be maintained. In addition, the computation time to generate the tables is not needed, so the initial commissioning process can be reduced. The proposed method consists of two parts: the determination of a flux weakening region and the modification of current references. The flux weakening region is determined by the angle between direction vectors along the constant torque and voltage decreasing directions in the d-q axis current plane. After identifying the flux weakening region, the current references are modified for flux weakening according to the direction vector and appropriate magnitude. The direction and magnitude are determined by the operating point of the currents and magnitude of the output voltage, respectively. Using the flux saturation model for SynRMs, the flux weakening direction can be determined accurately. As a result, flux weakening can be performed precisely. The experimental results prove the validity of the proposed method.
A Novel PCA-Firefly Based XGBoost Classification Model for Intrusion Detection in Networks Using GPU
Authors: Bhattacharya Sweta , S Siva Rama Krishnan , Maddikunta Praveen Kumar Reddy , Kaluri Rajesh , Singh Saurabh , Gadekallu Thippa Reddy , Alazab Mamoun , Tariq Usman
Published: January 2020

The enormous popularity of the internet across all spheres of human life has introduced various risks of malicious attacks in the network. The activities performed over the network could be effortlessly proliferated, which has led to the emergence of intrusion detection systems. The patterns of the attacks are also dynamic, which necessitates efficient classification and prediction of cyber attacks. In this paper we propose a hybrid principal component analysis (PCA)-firefly based machine learning model to classify intrusion detection system (IDS) datasets. The dataset used in the study is collected from Kaggle. The model first performs One-Hot encoding for the transformation of the IDS datasets. The hybrid PCA-firefly algorithm is then used for dimensionality reduction. The XGBoost algorithm is implemented on the reduced dataset for classification. A comprehensive evaluation of the model is conducted with the state of the art machine learning approaches to justify the superiority of our proposed approach. The experimental results confirm the fact that the proposed model performs better than the existing machine learning models.
Envelope Thermal Performance Analysis Based on Building Information Model (BIM) Cloud Platform—Proposed Green Mark Collaboration Environment
Authors: Liu Ziwen , Wang Qian , Gan Vincent J.L. , Peh Luke
Published: January 2020

Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainable buildings are two future cornerstones of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. In Singapore’s context, the Green Mark (GM) scoring system is prevalently used to assess the sustainability index of green buildings. BIM provides the semantic and geometry information of buildings, which is proliferated as the technological and process backbone for the green building assessment. This research, through vast literature reviews, identified that the current procedure of achieving a Green Mark score is tedious and cumbersome, which hampers productivity, especially in the calculation of building envelope thermal performance. Furthermore, the project stakeholders work in silos, in a non-collaborative, manual and 2D-based environment for generating relevant documentation to achieve the requisite green mark score. To this end, a cloud-based BIM platform was developed, with the aim of encouraging project stakeholders to collaboratively generate the project’s green mark score digitally in accordance with the regulatory requirements. Through this research, the authors have validated the Envelope Thermal Transfer Value (ETTV) calculation, which is one of the prerequisite criteria to achieve a Green Mark score, through a case study using the developed cloud-based BIM platform. The results indicated that using the proposed platform enhances the productivity and accuracy as far as ETTV calculation is concerned. This study provides a basis for future research in implementing the proposed platform for other criteria under the Green Mark Scheme.
A Rule-Based Language and Verification Framework of Dynamic Service Composition
Authors: Kengne Kungne Willy , Kouamou Georges-Edouard , Tangha Claude
Published: January 2020

The emergence of BPML (Business Process Modeling Language) has favored the development of languages for the composition of services. Process-oriented approaches produce imperative languages, which are rigid to change at run-time because they focus on how the processes should be built. Despite the fact that semantics is introduced in languages to increase their flexibility, dynamism is limited to find services that have disappeared or become defective. They do not offer the possibility to adapt the composite service to execution. Although rules-based languages were introduced, they remain very much dependent on the BPML which is the underlying technology. This article proposes the specification of a rule-based declarative language for the composition of services. It consists of the syntactic categories which make up the concepts of the language and a formal description of the operational semantics that highlights the dynamism, the flexibility and the adaptability of the language thus defined. This paper also presents a verification framework made of a formal aspect and a toolset. The verification framework translates service specifications into Promela for model checking. Then, a validation framework is proposed that translates the verified specifications to the operational system. Finally, a case study is presented.
The Roles of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Neurodegenerative and Metabolic Diseases and in Relevant Advanced Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Pirzada Rameez Hassan , Javaid Nasir , Choi Sangdun
Published: January 2020

Inflammasomes are intracellular multiprotein complexes in the cytoplasm that regulate inflammation activation in the innate immune system in response to pathogens and to host self-derived molecules. Recent advances greatly improved our understanding of the activation of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes at the molecular level. The NLRP3 belongs to the subfamily of NLRP which activates caspase 1, thus causing the production of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1β and interleukin 18) and pyroptosis. This inflammasome is involved in multiple neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and gout. Therefore, therapeutic targeting to the NLRP3 inflammasome complex is a promising way to treat these diseases. Recent research advances paved the way toward drug research and development using a variety of machine learning-based and artificial intelligence-based approaches. These state-of-the-art approaches will lead to the discovery of better drugs after the training of such a system.
Evaluation of Flow Resistance Models Based on Field Experiments in a Partly Vegetated Reclamation Channel
Authors: Lama Giuseppe Francesco Cesare , Errico Alessandro , Francalanci Simona , Solari Luca , Preti Federico , Chirico Giovanni Battista
Published: January 2020

This study presents a methodology for improving the efficiency of Baptist and Stone and Shen models in predicting the global water flow resistance of a reclamation channel partly vegetated by rigid and emergent riparian plants. The results of the two resistance models are compared with the measurements collected during an experimental campaign conducted in a reclamation channel colonized by Common reed (Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.). Experimental vegetative Chézy’s flow resistance coefficients have been retrieved from the analysis of instantaneous flow velocity measurements, acquired by means of a downlooking 3-component acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV) located at the channel upstream cross section, and by water level measurements obtained through four piezometers distributed along the reclamation channel. The main morphometrical vegetation features (i.e., stem diameters and heights, and bed surface density) have been measured at six cross sections of the vegetated reclamation channel. Following the theoretical assumptions of the divided channel method (DCM), three sub-sections have been delineated in the reference cross section to represent the impact of the partial vegetation cover on the cross sectional variability of the flow field, as observed with the ADV measurements. The global vegetative Chézy’s flow resistance coefficients have been then computed by combining each resistance model with four different composite cross section methods, respectively suggested by Colebatch, Horton, Pavlovskii, and Yen. The comparative analysis between the modeled and the experimental vegetative Chézy’s coefficients has been performed by computing the relative prediction error (εr, expressed in %) under two flow rate regimes. Stone and Shen model combined with the Horton composite cross section method provides vegetative Chézy’s coefficients with the lowest εr.