bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative Entropy and Minimum-Variance Pricing Kernel in Asset Pricing Model Evaluation
Authors: Rojo-Suárez Javier , Alonso-Conde Ana Belén
Published: June 2020

Recent literature shows that many testing procedures used to evaluate asset pricing models result in spurious rejection probabilities. Model misspecification, the strong factor structure of test assets, or skewed test statistics largely explain this. In this paper we use the relative entropy of pricing kernels to provide an alternative framework for testing asset pricing models. Building on the fact that the law of one price guarantees the existence of a valid pricing kernel, we study the relationship between the mean-variance efficiency of a model’s factor-mimicking portfolio, as measured by the cross-sectional generalized least squares (GLS) R 2 statistic, and the relative entropy of the pricing kernel, as determined by the Kullback–Leibler divergence. In this regard, we suggest an entropy-based decomposition that accurately captures the divergence between the factor-mimicking portfolio and the minimum-variance pricing kernel resulting from the Hansen-Jagannathan bound. Our results show that, although GLS R 2 statistics and relative entropy are strongly correlated, the relative entropy approach allows us to explicitly decompose the explanatory power of the model into two components, namely, the relative entropy of the pricing kernel and that corresponding to its correlation with asset returns. This makes the relative entropy a versatile tool for designing robust tests in asset pricing.
Four-Types of IIT-Induced Group Integrity of Plecoglossus altivelis
Authors: Niizato Takayuki , Sakamoto Kotaro , Mototake Yoh-ichi , Murakami Hisashi , Tomaru Takenori , Hoshika Tomotaro , Fukushima Toshiki
Published: June 2020

Integrated information theory (IIT) was initially proposed to describe human consciousness in terms of intrinsic-causal brain network structures. Particularly, IIT 3.0 targets the system’s cause–effect structure from spatio-temporal grain and reveals the system’s irreducibility. In a previous study, we tried to apply IIT 3.0 to an actual collective behaviour in Plecoglossus altivelis. We found that IIT 3.0 exhibits qualitative discontinuity between three and four schools of fish in terms of Φ value distributions. Other measures did not show similar characteristics. In this study, we followed up on our previous findings and introduced two new factors. First, we defined the global parameter settings to determine a different kind of group integrity. Second, we set several timescales (from Δ t = 5 / 120 to Δ t = 120 / 120 s). The results showed that we succeeded in classifying fish schools according to their group sizes and the degree of group integrity around the reaction time scale of the fish, despite the small group sizes. Compared with the short time scale, the interaction heterogeneity observed in the long time scale seems to diminish. Finally, we discuss one of the longstanding paradoxes in collective behaviour, known as the heap paradox, for which two tentative answers could be provided through our IIT 3.0 analysis.
Energy Efficiency of Machine Learning in Embedded Systems Using Neuromorphic Hardware
Authors: Kang Minseon , Lee Yongseok , Park Moonju
Published: June 2020

Recently, the application of machine learning on embedded systems has drawn interest in both the research community and industry because embedded systems located at the edge can produce a faster response and reduce network load. However, software implementation of neural networks on Central Processing Units (CPUs) is considered infeasible in embedded systems due to limited power supply. To accelerate AI processing, the many-core Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) has been a preferred device to the CPU. However, its energy efficiency is not still considered to be good enough for embedded systems. Among other approaches for machine learning on embedded systems, neuromorphic processing chips are expected to be less power-consuming and overcome the memory bottleneck. In this work, we implemented a pedestrian image detection system on an embedded device using a commercially available neuromorphic chip, NM500, which is based on NeuroMem technology. The NM500 processing time and the power consumption were measured as the number of chips was increased from one to seven, and they were compared to those of a multicore CPU system and a GPU-accelerated embedded system. The results show that NM500 is more efficient in terms of energy required to process data for both learning and classification than the GPU-accelerated system or the multicore CPU system. Additionally, limits and possible improvement of the current NM500 are identified based on the experimental results.
A New Generalized Morse Potential Function for Calculating Cohesive Energy of Nanoparticles
Authors: Aldossary Omar M. , Al Rsheed Anwar
Published: June 2020

A new generalized Morse potential function with an additional parameter m is proposed to calculate the cohesive energy of nanoparticles. The calculations showed that a generalized Morse potential function using different values for the m and α parameters can be used to predict experimental values for the cohesive energy of nanoparticles. Moreover, the enlargement of the attractive force in the generalized potential function plays an important role in describing the stability of the nanoparticles rather than the softening of the repulsive interaction in the cases when m > 1.
On the Comparison of 2- and 4-Wheel-Drive Electric Vehicle Layouts with Central Motors and Single- and 2-Speed Transmission Systems
Authors: De Pinto Stefano , Camocardi Pablo , Chatzikomis Christoforos , Sorniotti Aldo , Bottiglione Francesco , Mantriota Giacomo , Perlo Pietro
Published: June 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) are characterized by a significant variety of possible powertrain configurations, ranging from one to four electric machines, which can have an on-board or in-wheel layout. Multiple models of production EVs have recently been introduced on the market, with 4-wheel-drive (4WD) architectures based on a central motor within each axle, connected to the wheels through a gearbox, a differential, and half-shafts. In parallel, an important body of research and industrial demonstrations have covered the topic of 2-speed transmission systems for EVs, with the target of enhancing longitudinal acceleration and gradeability performance, while increasing the operating efficiency of the electric powertrain. Although several recent studies compare different electric powertrain architectures, to the best of the authors’ knowledge the literature misses a comparison between 2-wheel-drive (2WD) and 4WD configurations for the same EV, from the viewpoint of drivability and energy consumption. This paper targets this gap, by assessing 2WD and 4WD powertrain layouts with central motors, for a case study light passenger car for urban mobility, including consideration of the effect of single- and 2-speed transmission systems. An optimization routine is used to calculate the energy-efficient gear state and/or torque distribution for each considered configuration. For the specific EV, the results highlight the favourable trade-off of the single-speed 4WD layout, capable of reducing the energy consumption during driving cycles by approximately 9% with respect to the conventional 2WD layout with single-speed transmission, while providing satisfactory drivability and good gradeability, especially in low tire–road friction conditions.
Laboratory Validation of Integrated Lighting Systems Retrofit Performance and Energy Savings
Authors: Shackelford Jordan , Mathew Paul , Regnier Cynthia , Walter Travis
Published: June 2020

Light-emitting diodes (LED) fixtures and lamps have emerged as leading technologies for general illumination and are a well-established energy efficiency retrofit measure in commercial buildings (from around 2% of installed fixtures and lamps in 2013 to 28% by 2020). Retrofit approaches that integrate elements, such as networked controls, daylight dimming, and advanced shade technologies lag in comparison. Integrated retrofits have been shown to increase savings over single end-use retrofits, but are perceived as higher complexity and risk. More validation of integrated lighting system performance is needed. This study presents results from laboratory testing of three packages combining fixtures, networked controls, task tuning, and daylight dimming, advanced shades, and lighting layout changes. We characterize performance in perimeter open-office zones, finding energy savings from 20% for daylight dimming and automated shades (no LED retrofit) to over 70% for LED retrofits with advanced controls and shades or lighting layout changes. We present some implementation details, including lessons learned from installation and commissioning in the laboratory setting. We also discuss cost-benefit analysis approaches for the types of packages presented, including the need to quantify and incorporate energy and non-energy benefits for advanced shades packages, which enhance occupant comfort but add significant cost.
Fuzzy First-Order Transition-Rules-Trained Hybrid Forecasting System for Short-Term Wind Speed Forecasts
Authors: Bai Yulong , Tang Lihong , Fan Manhong , Ma Xiaoyan , Yang Yang
Published: June 2020

Due to the ever-increasing environmental pollution becoming progressively more serious, wind power has been widely used around the world in recent years. However, because of their randomness and intermittence, the accurate prediction of wind speeds is difficult. To address this problem, this article proposes a hybrid system for short-wind-speed prediction. The system combines the autoregressive differential moving average (ARIMA) model with a three-layer feedforward neural network. An ARIMA model was employed to predict linear patterns in series, while a feedforward neural network was used to predict the nonlinear patterns in series. To improve accuracy of the predictions, the neural network models were trained by using two methods: first-order transition rules and fuzzy first-order transition rules. The Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) algorithm was applied to update the weight and deviation of each layer of neural network. The dominance matrix method was employed to calculate the weight of the hybrid system, which was used to establish the linear hybrid system. To evaluate the performance, three statistical indices were used: the mean square error (MSE), the root mean square error (RMSE) and the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). A set of Lorenz-63 simulated values and two datasets collected from different wind fields in Qilian County, Qinghai Province, China, were utilized as to perform a comparative study. The results show the following: (a) compared with the neural network trained by first-order transition rules, the prediction accuracy of the neural network trained by the fuzzy first-order transition rules was higher; (b) the proposed hybrid system attains superior performance compared with a single model; and (c) the proposed hybrid system balances the forecast accuracy and convergence speed simultaneously during forecasting. Therefore, it was feasible to apply the hybrid model to the prediction of real time-series.
Voltage Harmonic Impacts on Electric Motors: A Comparison between IE2, IE3 and IE4 Induction Motor Classes
Authors: Muñoz Tabora Jonathan , de Lima Tostes Maria Emília , Ortiz de Matos Edson , Mota Soares Thiago , Bezerra Ubiratan Holanda
Published: June 2020

Global energy systems are undergoing a transition process towards renewable energy and energy efficiency practices. Induction motors play an important role in this energy transformation process since they are widely used as industrial loads, representing more than 53% of global energy consumption. With more countries adopting minimum energy performance standards through more efficient induction motors, comparisons between these new technologies in the presence of electrical disturbances must be systematically evaluated before adopting a substitution policy in the industry. To this end, this work presents a comparative analysis of the impact of harmonic voltages on the performance and temperature rise of electric motors classes IE2, IE3 and IE4 in the same operational conditions in view of future substitutions. The results show that under ideal operating conditions the IE4 class permanent magnet motor has better performance in terms of consumption and temperature, however presenting non-linear characteristics. In the presence of voltage harmonics, this scenario changes completely according to the harmonic content. Finally, aiming to analyze the harmonics influence in the motor temperature rise a statistical analysis by means of Spearman correlation matrices is presented.
SMART Computational Solutions for the Optimization of Selected Technology Processes as an Innovation and Progress in Improving Energy Efficiency of Smart Cities—A Case Study
Authors: Gaska Krzysztof , Generowicz Agnieszka
Published: June 2020

The paper presents advanced computational solutions for selected sectors in the context of the optimization of technology processes as an innovation and progress in improving energy efficiency of smart cities. The main emphasis was placed on the sectors of critical urban infrastructure, including in particular the use of algorithmic models based on artificial intelligence implemented in supervisory control systems (SCADA-type, including Virtual SCADA) of technological processes involving the sewage treatment systems (including in particular wastewater treatment systems) and waste management systems. The novelty of the presented solution involves the use of predictive diagnostic tools, based on multi-threaded polymorphic models supporting decision making processes during the control of a complex technological process and objects of distributed network systems (smart water grid, smart sewage system, smart waste management system) and solving problems of optimal control for smart dynamic objects with logical representation of knowledge about the process, the control object and the control itself, for which the learning process consists of successive validation and updating of knowledge and the use of the results of this updating to make control decisions. The advantage of the proposed solution in relation to the existing ones lies in the use of advanced models of predictive diagnostics, validation and reconstruction of data, implemented in functional tools, allowing the stabilization of the work of technological objects through the use of FTC technology (fault tolerant control) and soft sensors, predictive measurement path diagnostics (sensors, transducers), validation and reconstruction of measurement data from sensors in the measuring paths in real time. The dedicated tools (Intelligent Real Time Diagnostic System − iRTDS) built into the system of a hierarchical, multi-threaded control optimizing system of SCADA system allow to obtain advanced diagnostics of technological processes in real time using HPC technology. In effect of the application of the proprietary iRTDS tool, we obtain a significant rise of energy efficiency of technological processes in key sectors of the economy, which in global terms, e.g., urban agglomeration, increases the economic efficiency.
Geometry Optimization of Top Metallic Contacts in a Solar Cell Using the Constructal Design Method
Authors: Ojeda Jorge A. , Messina Sarah , Vázquez Erik E. , Méndez Federico
Published: June 2020

Sunlight is a natural resource that can be harnessed by the photovoltaic conversion of sunlight into electricity-utilizing solar cells. The production of most common solar cells consists of a homojunction of a p-type and n-type silicon. The p—n junction is realized by the diffusion of impurities through one surface of the wafer. Silicon wafers have a typical dimension of 156 × 156 mm2 and a thickness of 0.15–0.2 mm. Groups of 50–100 solar cells are electrically connected and encapsulated to form a module. The required area for interconnection does not contribute to power generation, and the performance of larger area devices usually suffers from higher resistive losses. In the present work, a theoretical model of the geometric arrangement of the top contact metallic electrodes branched network in a photovoltaic cell is developed. The network structure of the electrodes is obtained from applying the constructal design methodology by the minimization of the overall resistance. As a result, the optimal lengths and geometrical relationships of an electrode branching network with a branching angle are determined. A geometric distribution of the electrode network on the solar cell analyzed by the total resistance of every level of branching is defined. The top metallic contact network presents a tree-shaped geometric arrangement with the main objective of covering a generation area for an enhanced collection of the generated electrical current. The theoretical results obtained are expressed as the total voltage of the arrangement and the lengths of the branched electrode network.
Voltage Flicker Detection Based on Probability Resampling
Authors: Gao Haitao , Xu Peng , Tao Jin , Huang Shihui , Wang Rugang , Zhou Quan
Published: June 2020

Digital flicker detection devices need to store a large amount of evaluation data during measurement process, which leads to high requirements for hardware resources and algorithm execution efficiency. In this paper, a digital flicker detection method based on probability resampling is studied. In particular, before statistical evaluation, probability resampling is applied to screen the instantaneous flicker visual sensitivity data to compress redundant data. Additionally, the effectiveness of the method was numerically simulated and experimentally tested. The results show that the proposed method can accurately measure the voltage flicker value and can effectively compress the redundant evaluation data to be evaluated and has significant advantages in releasing hardware storage space, in improving algorithm execution efficiency and real-time performance, and in reducing processor workload. This method provides an engineering application reference for designing digital flicker detectors, especially for the software upgrade of traditional power quality testing equipment.
Pilot Scale Fermentations of Sangiovese: An Overview on the Impact of Saccharomyces and Non-Saccharomyces Wine Yeasts
Authors: Romani Cristina , Lencioni Livio , Biondi Bartolini Alessandra , Ciani Maurizio , Mannazzu Ilaria , Domizio Paola
Published: June 2020

The production of wines with peculiar analytical and sensorial profiles, together with the microbiological control of the winemaking process, has always been one of the main objectives of the wine industry. In this perspective, the use of oenological starters containing non-Saccharomyces yeasts can represent a valid tool for achieving these objectives. Here we present the results of seven pilot scale fermentations, each of which was inoculated with a different non-Saccharomyces yeast strain and after three days with a commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae starter. The fermentations were carried out in double on 70 L of Sangiovese grape must, the most widely planted red grape variety in Italy and particularly in Tuscany, where it is utilized for the production of more than 80% of red wines. Fermentations were monitored by assessing both the development of the microbial population and the consumption of sugars at the different sampling times. The impact of the different starters was assessed after stabilization through the evaluation of the standard analytical composition of the resulting wines, also taking into account polysaccharides and volatile compounds. Moreover, quantitative descriptive sensory analyses were carried out. Compared to the control wines obtained by inoculating the S. cerevisiae starter strain, those inoculated with non-Saccharomyces/Saccharomyces mixed starters presented a significant differentiation in the chemical-analytical composition. Moreover, sensory analysis revealed differences among wines mainly for intensity of color, astringency, and dryness mouthfeel perception.
Investigating the Relationship between Personality and Technology Acceptance with a Focus on the Smartphone from a Gender Perspective: Results of an Exploratory Survey Study
Authors: Sindermann Cornelia , Riedl René , Montag Christian
Published: June 2020

Prior research found that user personality significantly affects technology acceptance perceptions and decisions. Yet, evidence on the moderating influence of user gender on the relationship between personality and technology acceptance is barely existent despite theoretical consideration. Considering this research gap, the present study reports the results of a survey in which we examined the relationships between personality and technology acceptance from a gender perspective. This study draws upon a sample of N = 686 participants (n = 209 men, n = 477 women) and applied the HEXACO Personality Inventory—Revised along with established technology acceptance measures. The major result of this study is that we do not find significant influence of user gender on the relationship between personality and technology acceptance, except for one aspect of personality, namely altruism. We found a negative association between altruism and intention to use the smartphone in men, but a positive association in women. Consistent with this finding, we also found the same association pattern for altruism and predicted usage: a negative one in men and a positive one in women. Implications for research and practice are discussed, along with limitations of the present study and possible avenues for future research.
Impacts of Microplastics on the Swimming Behavior of the Copepod Temora turbinata (Dana, 1849)
Authors: Suwaki Caroline H. , De-La-Cruz Leandro T. , Lopes Rubens M.
Published: June 2020

Zooplankton are prone to the ingestion of microplastics by mistaking them for prey. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the impacts of microplastic availability on zooplankton behavior. In this study, we investigated the effects of polystyrene microbeads on swimming patterns of the calanoid copepod Temora turbinata under laboratory conditions. We acquired high-resolution video sequences using an optical system containing a telecentric lens and a digital camera with an acquisition rate of 20 frames per second. We estimated the mean speed, NGDR (Net-to-Gross Displacement Ratio, a dimensionless single-valued measure of straightness) and turning angle to describe the swimming behavior in three different treatments (control, low and high concentration of microplastics). Our results revealed that swimming speeds decreased up to 40% (instantaneous speed) compared to controls. The NGDR and turning angle distribution of the organisms also changed in the presence of polystyrene microbeads, both at low (100 beads mL−1) and high microplastic concentration (1000 beads mL−1). These results suggest that the swimming behavior of Temora turbinata is affected by microbeads.
Traditional Knowledge of the Utilization of Edible Insects in Nagaland, North-East India
Authors: Mozhui Lobeno , Kakati L.N. , Kiewhuo Patricia , Changkija Sapu
Published: June 2020

Located at the north-eastern part of India, Nagaland is a relatively unexplored area having had only few studies on the faunal diversity, especially concerning insects. Although the practice of entomophagy is widespread in the region, a detailed account regarding the utilization of edible insects is still lacking. The present study documents the existing knowledge of entomophagy in the region, emphasizing the currently most consumed insects in view of their marketing potential as possible future food items. Assessment was done with the help of semi-structured questionnaires, which mentioned a total of 106 insect species representing 32 families and 9 orders that were considered as health foods by the local ethnic groups. While most of the edible insects are consumed boiled, cooked, fried, roasted/toasted, some insects such as Cossus sp., larvae and pupae of ants, bees, wasps, and hornets as well as honey, bee comb, bee wax are consumed raw. Certain edible insects are either fully domesticated (e.g., Antheraea assamensis, Apis cerana indica, and Samia cynthia ricini) or semi-domesticated in their natural habitat (e.g., Vespa mandarinia, Vespa soror, Vespa tropica tropica, and Vespula orbata), and the potential of commercialization of these insects and some other species as a bio-resource in Nagaland exists.
Identification of QTNs and Their Candidate Genes for 100-Seed Weight in Soybean (Glycine max L.) Using Multi-Locus Genome-Wide Association Studies
Authors: Ikram Muhammad , Han Xu , Zuo Jian-Fang , Song Jian , Han Chun-Yu , Zhang Ya-Wen , Zhang Yuan-Ming
Published: June 2020

100-seed weight (100-SW) in soybeans is a yield component trait and controlled by multiple genes with different effects, but limited information is available for its quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) and candidate genes. To better understand the genetic architecture underlying the trait and improve the precision of marker-assisted selection, a total of 43,834 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 250 soybean accessions were used to identify significant QTNs for 100-SW in four environments and their BLUP values using six multi-locus and one single-locus genome-wide association study methods. As a result, a total of 218 significant QTNs were detected using multi-locus methods, whereas eight QTNs were identified by a single-locus method. Among 43 QTNs or QTN clusters identified repeatedly across various environments and/or approaches, all of them exhibited significant trait differences between their corresponding alleles, 33 were found in the genomic region of previously reported QTLs, 10 were identified as new QTNs, and three (qHSW-4-1, qcHSW-7-3, and qcHSW-10-4) were detected in all the four environments. The number of seed weight (SW) increasing alleles for each accession ranged from 8 (18.6%) to 36 (83.72%), and three accessions (Yixingwuhuangdou, Nannong 95C-5, and Yafanzaodou) had more than 35 SW increasing alleles. Among 36 homologous seed-weight genes in Arabidopsis underlying the above 43 stable QTNs, more importantly, Glyma05g34120, GmCRY1, and GmCPK11 had known seed-size/weight-related genes in soybean, and Glyma07g07850, Glyma10g03440, and Glyma10g36070 were candidate genes identified in this study. These results provide useful information for genetic foundation, marker-assisted selection, genomic prediction, and functional genomics of 100-SW.
Feature Selection for High-Dimensional and Imbalanced Biomedical Data Based on Robust Correlation Based Redundancy and Binary Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Abdulrauf Sharifai Garba , Zainol Zurinahni
Published: June 2020

The training machine learning algorithm from an imbalanced data set is an inherently challenging task. It becomes more demanding with limited samples but with a massive number of features (high dimensionality). The high dimensional and imbalanced data set has posed severe challenges in many real-world applications, such as biomedical data sets. Numerous researchers investigated either imbalanced class or high dimensional data sets and came up with various methods. Nonetheless, few approaches reported in the literature have addressed the intersection of the high dimensional and imbalanced class problem due to their complicated interactions. Lately, feature selection has become a well-known technique that has been used to overcome this problem by selecting discriminative features that represent minority and majority class. This paper proposes a new method called Robust Correlation Based Redundancy and Binary Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (rCBR-BGOA); rCBR-BGOA has employed an ensemble of multi-filters coupled with the Correlation-Based Redundancy method to select optimal feature subsets. A binary Grasshopper optimisation algorithm (BGOA) is used to construct the feature selection process as an optimisation problem to select the best (near-optimal) combination of features from the majority and minority class. The obtained results, supported by the proper statistical analysis, indicate that rCBR-BGOA can improve the classification performance for high dimensional and imbalanced datasets in terms of G-mean and the Area Under the Curve (AUC) performance metrics.
CircRNA-006258 Sponge-Adsorbs miR-574-5p to Regulate Cell Growth and Milk Synthesis via EVI5L in Goat Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zhang Meng , Ma Li , Liu Yuhan , He Yonglong , Li Guang , An Xiaopeng , Cao Binyun
Published: June 2020

The development of the udder and the milk yield are closely related to the number and vitality of mammary epithelial cells. Many previous studies have proved that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are widely involved in mammary gland development and the physiological activities of lactation. Our laboratory previous sequencing data revealed that miR-574-5p was differentially expressed during the colostrum and peak lactation stages, while the molecular mechanism of the regulatory effect of miR-574-5p on goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) is unclear. In this study, the targeting relationship was detected between miR-574-5p or ecotropic viral integration site 5-like (EVI5L) and circRNA-006258. The results declared that miR-574-5p induced the down-regulation of EVI5L expression at both the mRNA and protein levels, while circRNA-006258 relieved the inhibitory effect through adsorbing miR-574-5p. EVI5L blocked the G1 phase and promoted the S phase by activating the Rab23/ITGB1/TIAM1/Rac1-TGF-β/Smad pathway in GMECs. By increasing the protein expression of Bcl2 and reducing the protein expression of Bax, EVI5L promoted cell growth and inhibited apoptosis. The activation of the PI3K/AKT–mTOR signaling pathway promoted the production of triacylglycerol (TAG) and β-casein in GMECs. The circRNA–006258/miR-574-5p/EVI5L axis could regulate the cell growth and milk synthesis of GMECs by sponge-adsorbed miR-574-5p. These results would provide scientific evidence for precision animal breeding in the industry of dairy goats.
Assigning the Sex-Specific Markers via Genotyping-by-Sequencing onto the Y Chromosome for a Torrent Frog Amolops mantzorum
Authors: Luo Wei , Xia Yun , Yue Bisong , Zeng Xiaomao
Published: June 2020

We used a genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) approach to identify sex-linked markers in a torrent frog (Amolops mantzorum), using 21 male and 19 female wild-caught individuals from the same population. A total of 141 putatively sex-linked markers were screened from 1,015,964 GBS-tags via three approaches, respectively based on sex differences in allele frequencies, sex differences in heterozygosity, and sex-limited occurrence. With validations, 69 sex-linked markers were confirmed, all of which point to male heterogamety. The male specificity of eight sex markers was further verified by PCR amplifications, with a large number of additional individuals covering the whole geographic distribution of the species. Y chromosome (No. 5) was microdissected under a light microscope and amplified by whole-genome amplification, and a draft Y genome was assembled. Of the 69 sex-linked markers, 55 could be mapped to the Y chromosome assembly (i.e., 79.7%). Thus, chromosome 5 could be added as a candidate to the chromosomes that are particularly favored for recruitment in sex-determination in frogs. Three sex-linked markers that mapped onto the Y chromosome were aligned to three different promoter regions of the Rana rugosa CYP19A1 gene, which might be considered as a candidate gene for triggering sex-determination in A. mantzorum.
Genome-Wide Identification and Comparative Analysis of Myosin Gene Family in Four Major Cotton Species
Authors: Ma Chenhui , Zhao Zibo , Wang Na , Azhar Muhammad Tehseen , Du Xiongming
Published: June 2020

Myosin protein as a molecular motor, binding with Actin, plays a significant role in various physiological activities such as cell division, movement, migration, and morphology; however, there are only a few studies on plant Myosin gene family, particularly in cotton. A total of 114 Myosin genes were found in Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium raimondii, and Gossypium arboreum. All Myosins could be grouped into six groups, and for each group of these genes, similar gene structures are found. Study of evolution suggested that the whole genome duplications event occurring about 13–20 MYA (millions of years ago) is the key explanation for Myosins expanse in cotton. Cis-element and qPCR analysis revealed that plant hormones such as abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate, and salicylic acid can control the expression of Myosins. This research provides useful information on the function of Myosin genes in regulating plant growth, production, and fiber elongation for further studies.
Humanities-About Sections
Authors: Classen Albrecht
Published: June 2020

What is Humanities Open Access all about? Innovative Perspectives and Inclusivity as the Platform for Novel Approaches in Humanities Research[…]
Use, Purpose, and Function—Letting the Artifacts Speak
Authors: Loughmiller-Cardinal Jennifer A. , Cardinal J. Scott
Published: June 2020

Archaeologists have likely collected, as a conservative estimate, billions of artifacts over the course of the history of fieldwork. We have classified chronologies and typologies of these, based on various formal and physical characteristics or ethno-historically known analogues, to give structure to our interpretations of the people that used them. The simple truth, nonetheless, is that we do not actually know how they were used or their intended purpose. We only make inferences—i.e., educated guesses based on the available evidence as we understand it—regarding their functions in the past and the historical behaviors they reflect. Since those inferences are so fundamental to the interpretations of archaeological materials, and the archaeological project as a whole, the way we understand materiality can significantly bias the stories we construct of the past. Recent work demonstrated seemingly contradictory evidence between attributed purpose or function versus confirmed use, however, which suggested that a basic premise of those inferences did not empirically hold to be true. In each case, the apparent contradiction was resolved by reassessing what use, purpose, and function truly mean and whether certain long-established functional categories of artifacts were in fact classifying by function. The resulting triangulation, presented here, narrows the scope on such implicit biases by addressing both empirical and conceptual aspects of artifacts. In anchoring each aspect of evaluation to an empirical body of data, we back ourselves away from our assumptions and interpretations so as to let the artifacts speak for themselves.
Differences in Body Composition among Patientsafter Hemorrhagic and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wilczyński Jacek , Mierzwa-Molenda Marta , Habik-Tatarowska Natalia
Published: June 2020

The aim of the study was to assess differences in the body composition of patients after hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke. There were 74 male participants in the study, of which 13 (18%) experienced hemorrhagic stroke, while 61 (82%) were after ischemic stroke. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher values of body composition variables were noted for ischemic compared to hemorrhagic strokes, and concerned: body mass (BM) (kg), basal metabolic rate (BMR) (kJ), fat-free mass (FFM) (kg), total body water (TBW) (kg), muscle mass (MM) (kg), visceral fat level (VFL), bone mass (BoM) (kg), extracellular water(ECW) (kg),intracellular water (ICW) (kg), trunk fat-free mass (TFFM) (kg) and trunk muscle mass (TMM) (kg)in the paretic upper limb; FFM (kg) and MM (kg) in the non-paretic upper limb; FFM (kg) and MM (kg) in the paretic lower limbas well as FFM (kg) and MM (kg) in the non-paretic lower limb without paresis. Only for the variables fat mass (FM) (kg), body mass index (BMI), metabolic age (MA), trunk fat mass (TFM) (kg), and FM (kg) in the paretic upper limb and FM (kg) in the non-paretic upper limb were there no significant differences. Significant differences in body composition of patients after hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke have been demonstrated. Individuals after ischemic stroke had significantly worse body composition. Incorrect body composition is a significant risk factor, especially of ischemic stroke.
Psychometric Properties of the Colombian Version of the HIV Attitudes Scale for Adolescents
Authors: Gómez-Lugo Mayra , Morales Alexandra , Saavedra-Roa Alejandro , Niebles-Charris Janivys , García-Roncallo Paola , Marchal-Bertrand Laurent , Espada José Pedro , Vallejo-Medina Pablo
Published: June 2020

The HIV Attitudes Scale (HIV-AS) evaluates attitudes towards different aspects of HIV. In view of the lack of scales measuring this construct in Colombia, this study sought to validate the HIV-AS test for adolescents from Colombia. A total of 867 Colombian students, aged between 14 and 19 years (M = 15.97 years; SD = 1.37) were evaluated. Participants responded to the HIV-AS test and a set of scales used to assess external validity. Content validity analyses reflected good adequacy indices for the items. Exploratory factor analyses revealed a four-factor structure and reliability indices were satisfactory. The structural equation model showed good levels of fit. Most of the items presented a discrimination index above 0.30 and contributed to the reliability of the scale, except for item 9, which was eliminated. Concurrent validity showed significant correlations among the HIV-AS and other similar constructs. A reliable measurement of attitudes toward HIV allows for an improved assessment of the risk associated with exposure to sexually transmitted infections in adolescent populations.
Environmental and Endogenous Acids Can Trigger Allergic-Type Airway Reactions
Authors: Molinari Giuliano , Molinari Laura , Nervo Elsa
Published: June 2020

Inflammatory allergic and nonallergic respiratory disorders are spreading worldwide and often coexist. The root cause is not clear. This review demonstrates that, from a biochemical point of view, it is ascribable to protons (H+) released into cells by exogenous and endogenous acids. The hypothesis of acids as the common cause stems from two considerations: (a) it has long been known that exogenous acids present in air pollutants can induce the irritation of epithelial surfaces, particularly the airways, inflammation, and bronchospasm; (b) according to recent articles, endogenous acids, generated in cells by phospholipases, play a key role in the biochemical mechanisms of initiation and progression of allergic-type reactions. Therefore, the intracellular acidification and consequent Ca2+ increase, induced by protons generated by either acid pollutants or endogenous phospholipases, may constitute the basic mechanism of the multimorbidity of these disorders, and environmental acidity may contribute to their spread.
Ceramsite Facilitated Microbial Degradation of Pollutants in Domestic Wastewater
Authors: Wan Qiong , Han Qingji , Luo Hailin , He Tao , Xue Feng , Ye Zihuizhong , Chen Chen , Huang Shan
Published: June 2020

Although constructed wetlands (CWs) are widely used around the world with various substrates, the mechanisms of how these modified substrates affect wastewater treatment are still unknown. In this study, CW microcosms were established with and without ceramsite as a substrate, and the wastewater treatment efficiencies were evaluated during 71 days of incubation. Using the 16S rRNA high-through sequencing, the mechanisms of how CW substrate changed the microbial community was quantified. The results showed that compared to soil as substrate, the use of ceramsite as substrate material enhanced the removal of pollutants from CW systems, particularly under a short retention time (1.5-day) condition. There were more beneficial microorganism groups (nitrogen, sulfur, phosphate) in the ceramsite CW system than the non-ceramsite CW system, particularly in the bottom layers. Moreover, the CW with ceramsite substrate had more nitrification function. All of these results suggested that the ceramsite CW system enhanced the removal of pollutants because it increased the concentration of key microbes that are necessarily for nutrient cycles.
Exploration of Influence of Socioeconomic Determinants on Mortality in the European Union
Authors: Gavurova Beata , Khouri Samer , Kovac Viliam , Ferkova Michaela
Published: June 2020

Economic performance measured through the gross domestic product indicator and the poverty rate varies across the whole European Union, together with the considerable income inequalities in the long-term. Economic growth may not bring a reduction in the health inequalities in the individual countries themselves. In order to eliminate health inequalities, the different types of policies implemented in the health, social and economic systems need to be explored in more detail. Mortality is explored through an indicator of the standardised mortality rate for both sexes explained by the several socioeconomic determinants, among which variables such as the variations of the gross domestic product per capita, the healthcare expenditures, the unemployment rate, and the healthcare system financing. Almost in all the described cases, these dimensions have negative impact. All the influences are expressed in a relative way in order to be suitably interpretable. The analysis is not comprehensive; nevertheless, it contains 18 regression models to cover as many aspects as it is possible. The Discussion section offers an evaluation of the obtained results according to the outcome of the other studies.
Interactions among Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Severity, Sex, and Obesity on Circulatory Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Suspected Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wu Ming-Feng , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Chen Hui-Chen , Huang Wei-Chang
Published: June 2020

The interaction among obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) severity, sex, and obesity on cardiovascular risk as determined by serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze individual associations between these three OSAS characteristics and three cardiovascular biomarkers and to determine whether the relationship was affected by other features in patients with suspected OSAS. For all participants (n = 100), OSAS severity and sex had an interaction effect on IL-6 level (p = 0.030). Specifically, the male patients (p = 0.005) with severe OSAS had higher IL-6 levels than those with normal to moderate OSAS, but this relationship was not significant in the female patients (p = 0.438). Moreover, in patients with normal to moderate OSAS (p = 0.004), but not in those with severe OSAS (p = 0.824), the female patients had higher IL-6 levels than the male patients. Both CRP (p = 0.001) and IL-6 (p = 0.000) levels were higher in the obese group than in the non-obese group independently of OSAS severity and sex. The three features had no effects on TNF-α level individually and interactively. Our findings suggest that circulatory inflammatory markers should be comprehensively evaluated in this population and that treatment and preventive therapies should be modified accordingly.
Health Insurance Is Associated with Decreased Odds for Undiagnosed Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes in American Adults
Authors: Mahoney Sean , Bradley Adam , Pitts Logan , Waletzko Stephanie , Robinson-Lane Sheria G. , Fairchild Timothy , Terbizan Donna J. , McGrath Ryan
Published: June 2020

Over a third of adults in the United States have prediabetes, and many of those with prediabetes will progress to type 2 diabetes within 3–5 years. Health insurance status may factor into a proper diagnosis of prediabetes and diabetes. This study sought to determine the associations between health insurance and undiagnosed prediabetes and diabetes in a national sample of American adults. Publicly available data from 13,029 adults aged 18–64 years from the 2005–2016 waves of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Health insurance type (Medicaid, Private, Other, None) was self-reported. Prediabetes and diabetes status were assessed with measures of self-report, glycohemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, and two-hour glucose. Covariate-adjusted logistic models were used for the analyses. Overall, 5976 (45.8%) participants had undiagnosed prediabetes, while 897 (6.8%) had undiagnosed diabetes. Having health insurance was associated with decreased odds ratios for undiagnosed prediabetes: 0.87 (95% confidence interval (CI: 0.79, 0.95)) for private insurance, 0.84 (CI: 0.73, 0.95) for other insurance, and 0.78 (CI: 0.67, 0.90) for Medicaid. Moreover, having private health insurance was associated with 0.82 (CI: 0.67, 0.99) decreased odds for undiagnosed diabetes. Health insurance coverage and screening opportunities for uninsured individuals may reduce prediabetes and diabetes misclassifications.
An Evaluation of the Process and Quality Improvement Measures of the University of Virginia Cancer Center Tobacco Treatment Program
Authors: Wiseman Kara P. , Hauser Lindsay , Clark Connie , Odumosu Onyiyoza , Dahl Neely , Peregoy Jennifer , Sheffield Christina W. , Klesges Robert C. , Anderson Roger T.
Published: June 2020

Tobacco use after a cancer diagnosis can increase risk of disease recurrence, increase the likelihood of a second primary cancer, and negatively impact treatment efficacy. The implementation of system-wide comprehensive tobacco cessation in the oncology setting has historically been low, with over half of cancer clinicians reporting that they do not treat or provide a referral to cessation resources. This quality improvement study evaluated the procedures for assessing and documenting tobacco use among cancer survivors and referring current smokers to cessation resources at the University of Virginia Cancer Center. Process mapping revealed 20 gaps across two major domains: electronic health record (EHR), and personnel barriers. The top identified priority was inconsistent documentation of tobacco use status as it impacted several downstream gaps. Eleven of the 20 gaps were deemed a high priority, and all were addressed during the implementation of the resulting Tobacco Treatment Program. Prioritized gaps were addressed using a combination of provider training, modifications to clinical workflow, and EHR modifications. Since implementation of solutions, the number of unique survivors receiving cessation treatment has increased from 284 survivors receiving cessation support during Year 1 of the initiative to 487 in Year 3. The resulting Tobacco Treatment Program provides a systematic, personalized, and sustainable comprehensive cessation program that optimizes the multifaceted workflow of the Cancer Center and has the potential to reduce tobacco use in a population most in need of cessation support.