bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile genetic elements mediate the mixotrophic evolution of novel Alicyclobacillus species for acid mine drainage adaptation
Authors: Liu Zhenghua , Liang Zonglin , Zhou Zhicheng , Li Liangzhi , Meng Delong , Li Xiutong , Tao Jiemeng , Jiang Zhen , Gu Yabing , Huang Ye , Liu Xueduan , Yang Zhendong , Drewniak Lukasz , Liu Tianbo , Liu Yongjun , Liu Shuangjiang , Wang Jianjun , Jiang Chengying , Yin Huaqun
Published: April 2021

Alicyclobacillus species inhabit diverse environments and have adapted to broad ranges of pH and temperature. However, their adaptive evolutions remain elusive, especially regarding the role of mobile genetic elements (MGEs). Here, we characterized the distributions and functions of MGEs in Alicyclobacillus species across five environments, including acid mine drainage (AMD), beverages, hot springs, sediments, and soils. Nine Alicyclobacillus strains were isolated from AMD and possessed larger genome sizes and more genes than those from other environments. Four AMD strains evolved to be mixotrophic and fell into distinctive clusters in phylogenetic tree. Four types of MGEs including genomic island (GI), insertion sequence (IS), prophage, and integrative and conjugative element (ICE) were widely distributed in Alicyclobacillus species. Further, AMD strains did not possess CRISPR‐Cas systems, but had more GI, IS, and ICE, as well as more MGE‐associated genes involved in the oxidation of iron and sulfide and the resistance of heavy metal and low temperature. These findings highlight the differences in phenotypes and genotypes between strains isolated from AMD and other environments and the important role of MGEs in rapid environment niche expansions.
Interconnection of the mycobacterial heparin‐binding hemagglutinin with cholesterol degradation and heme/iron pathways identified by proximity‐dependent biotin identification inMycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Veyron‐Churlet Romain , Saliou Jean‐Michel , Locht Camille
Published: April 2021

Deciphering protein–protein interactions is a critical step in the identification and the understanding of biological mechanisms deployed by pathogenic bacteria. The development ofin vivotechnologies to characterize these interactions is still in its infancy, especially for bacteria whose subcellular organization is particularly complex, such as mycobacteria. In this work, we used the proximity‐dependent biotin identification (BioID) to define the mycobacterial heparin‐binding hemagglutinin (HbhA) interactome in the saprophytic bacteriumMycobacterium smegmatis.M.smegmatisis a commonly used model to study and characterize the physiology of pathogenic mycobacteria, such asMycobacterium tuberculosis. Here, we adapted the BioID technology toin vivoprotein–protein interactions studies inM.smegmatis, which presents several advantages, such as maintaining the complex organization of the mycomembrane, offering the possibility to study membrane or cell wall‐associated proteins, including HbhA, in the presence of cofactors and post‐translational modifications, such as the complex methylation pattern of HbhA. Using this technology, we found that HbhA is interconnected with cholesterol degradation and heme/iron pathways. These results are in line with previous studies showing the dual localization of HbhA, associated with the cell wall and intracytoplasmic lipid inclusions, and its induction under high iron growth conditions.
THE PHONETICS OF NASAL‐FRICATIVE SEQUENCES IN LATIN
Authors: DeLisi Jessica
Published: April 2021

Inscriptional material and descriptions by grammarians from the classical period indicate that vowels were regularly lengthened before‐ns‐and‐nf‐sequences in Latin, e.g.,cōnsulandīnfēlīx. Additionally, nasals were often lost in this environment. The nasal deletion was driven by articulatory mechanisms, namely the difficulty of articulating a nasal directly before an anterior fricative. Diverting air to the nasal cavity reduces oral air pressure; however, the articulation of fricatives requires high air pressure at the point of constriction in order for frication of the air stream to occur. Speakers of Latin reduced the articulatory burden of these sequences by reducing nasal air flow, and over time the nasals were deleted. Preceding vowels were then lengthened to compensate for the lost mora associated with the deleted nasal. The articulatory explanation for the development of nasal‐fricative sequences will be supported by the facts of sociolinguistics: the reintroduction of nasals in‐ns‐and‐nf‐sequences is associated with elite speech and formal contexts, where the coarticulation between these two segments can be closely monitored by speakers.
Diverging Mortality Inequality Trends among Young and Old in the Netherlands*
Authors: Bär Marlies , Wouterse Bram , Riumallo Herl Carlos , Van Ourti Tom , Van Doorslaer Eddy
Published: April 2021

We analyse the trends in inequality in mortality across poverty groups at different ages over the period 1996–2016 in the Netherlands. In addition, we examine whether these trends are related to unequal changes in avoidable mortality, separated by preventable and treatable causes of death. We find that while inequalities in mortality have decreased at ages up to 65, inequalities increased for the oldest age groups. The decline in inequality at the younger ages can, to a large extent, be explained by a strong decrease of mortality from preventable and cardiovascular causes among the poor. The link between inequality and avoidable mortality at the oldest ages is less straightforward. The increasing inequality at old age might be the result of the inequalities shifting from the young to the older age groups, or of the rich benefiting more from the recent health (care) improvements than the poor.
Inequality in Mortality in Spain*
Authors: González Libertad , Rodríguez‐González Ana
Published: April 2021

We analyse the evolution of mortality rates in Spain by age and gender between 1990 and 2018. We compare municipalities, ranked by socio‐economic status (SES) and grouped into bins of similar population size, to study changes not only in levels but also in inequality in mortality across the SES spectrum. We document large decreases in mortality rates throughout the period for all age groups, including children, even after 2000, and continuing after the Great Recession. These declines are stronger for boys and men, who had higher mortality rates to begin with. We find that inequality in mortality across municipalities was low among the young by 2018, while it was higher among adult men and older women. Inequality in fact increased over the period for older men. We explore the role of different causes of death and find that this increase in inequality is driven by stronger improvements in cancer‐related mortality among men living in richer areas. These improvements are not found among women, given their increases in mortality due to lung cancer.
Appointment with Destiny: Selecting WTO Judges in the Future
Authors: Howse Robert
Published: April 2021

Nothing has done more to shake confidence in the World Trade Organization, and create uncertainty in rules‐based international trade, than the demise of the WTO’s Appellate Body (AB). Given the design of the WTO Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body, members cannot have confidence in the finality or enforceability of panel rulings. Thus, a fundamental premise of the legal commitments under WTO treaties is undermined. The collapse of the AB is due to a decision of the Trump Administration systematically to block new appointments to fill vacancies. This move, unprecedented in US trade policy in the WTO era, and not supported by any other WTO member, has completely failed as means of pressing the Administration’s complaints about ‘judicial overreach’ in the Appellate Body. This single Trump decision can easily be reversed by the Biden Administration stating that it is prepared to participate in good faith in a new process for selecting AB members. In this article, I suggest how the Appellate Body appointment process might go forward in the current context, addressing concerns of the US and some others about the past performance of the AB.
In the Shade of the Jujube Tree
Authors: Stoller Paul
Published: April 2021

This essay is a homage to Fatouma Seyni, one of my West African mentors. In it, I attempt to weave threads of narrative and ethnography to evoke the profundity of West African practical wisdom. More specifically, the narratives demonstrate how patience and respect set a course to learn not only about the mysteries of divination but also about the profound complexities of the human condition. We all sit on the shoulders of our mentors. Much of what I have written is a testament to the foundation my mentors set for me. And yet, my path, which emerges from their thoughts and practices, is not their path. The foundation they set marked a beginning, not an end. "You cannot walk," as the Songhay elders like to say, "where there is no ground."
The incidence of psoriasis in Chile: an analysis of the National Waiting List Repository
Authors: Lecaros C. , Dunstan J. , Villena F. , Ashcroft D. M. , Parisi R. , Griffiths C. E. M. , Härtel S. , Maul J. T. , De la Cruz C.
Published: April 2021

Background

Psoriasis is a serious and chronic noncommunicable disease. However, the fundamental measure of disease occurrence, the incidence, has been scarcely reported globally. There are no previous studies of psoriasis incidence in Latin America.

Aim

To estimate the incidence rates of psoriasis in Chile during 2016 and 2017 using an administrative database, the Waiting List Repository.

Methods

We examined referrals of psoriasis at onset, made by physicians to dermatologists, evaluated the agreement of diagnosis, and estimated the incidence of the disease considering the eligible population at risk.

Results

In most cases, the referrals corresponded to incident cases of psoriasis (73.3%; 95% CI: 66.6–79.2). The national incidence rates of psoriasis were 22.1 (95% CI: 21.1–23.1) and 22.7 (95% CI: 21.8–23.6) per 100 000 person-years in 2016 and 2017, respectively. The most common type of psoriasis was the late-onset type. We observed a high variation in the figures throughout the country, with a range from 0.75 (95% CI: 0.3–1.5) per 100 000 person-years in the Metropolitan region to 164.9 (95% CI: 138.6–195.1) per 100 000 person-years in the Aysen region.

Conclusion

We describe for the first time the incidence of psoriasis in a Latin American country. Our findings could potentially guide collaborations to improve our global understanding of psoriasis in Latin America.
Genome‐wide association study of epilepsy in a Japanese population identified an associated region at chromosome 12q24
Authors: Suzuki Toshimitsu , Koike Yoshinao , Ashikawa Kyota , Otomo Nao , Takahashi Atsushi , Aoi Tomomi , Kamatani Naoyuki , Nakamura Yusuke , Kubo Michiaki , Kamatani Yoichiro , Momozawa Yukihide , Terao Chikashi , Yamakawa Kazuhiro
Published: April 2021

Objective

Although a number of genes responsible for epilepsy have been identified through Mendelian genetic approaches, and genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) have implicated several susceptibility loci, the role of ethnic‐specific markers remains to be fully explored. We aimed to identify novel genetic associations with epilepsy in a Japanese population.

Methods

We conducted a GWAS on 1825 patients with a variety of epilepsies and 7975 control individuals. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis of epilepsy‐associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was performed using Japanese eQTL data.

Results

We identified a novel region, which is ~2 Mb (lead SNP rs149212747, p = 8.57 × 10−10), at chromosome 12q24 as a risk for epilepsy. Most of these loci were polymorphic in East Asian populations including Japanese, but monomorphic in the European population. This region harbors 24 transcripts including genes expressed in the brain such as CUX2, ATXN2, BRAP, ALDH2, ERP29, TRAFD1, HECTD4, RPL6, PTPN11, and RPH3A. The eQTL analysis revealed that the associated SNPs are also correlated to differential expression of genes at 12q24.

Significance

These findings suggest that a gene or genes in the CUX2‐RPH3A ~2‐Mb region contribute to the pathology of epilepsy in the Japanese population.
The determinants of banks' AT1 CoCo spreads
Authors: Kind Axel , Oster Philippe , Peter Franziska J.
Published: April 2021

We conduct a comprehensive pricing study of additional tier 1 ​(AT1) contingent convertible (CoCo) bonds issued by Eurozone banks. By accounting for an extensive set of pricing determinants related to the regulatory framework, the security design and key market variables, we show that the regulatory concept of the maximum distributable amount (MDA) introduced in 2016 has a significant and economically meaningful impact on CoCo spreads. Furthermore, we examine whether the market stress induced by the COVID‐19 pandemic influences the determinants of CoCo spreads. Our results show that the pricing factors remain stable throughout tranquil and volatile periods.
Recognition of H3K9me1 by maize RNA‐directed DNA methylation factor SHH2
Authors: Wang Yuhua , Zhou Xuelin , Luo Jinyan , Lv Suhui , Liu Rui , Du Xuan , Jia Bei , Yuan Fengtong , Zhang Heng , Du Jiamu
Published: April 2021

RNA‐directed DNA methylation (RdDM) is a plant‐specific de novo DNA methylation pathway, which has extensive cross‐talk with histone modifications. Here, we report that the maize RdDM regulator SAWADEE HOMEODOMAIN HOMOLOG 2 (SHH2) is an H3K9me1 reader. Our structural studies reveal that H3K9me1 recognition is achieved by recognition of the methyl group via a classic aromatic cage and hydrogen‐bonding and salt‐bridge interactions with the free protons of the mono‐methyllysine. The di‐ and tri‐methylation states disrupt the polar interactions, decreasing the binding affinity. Our study reveals a mono‐methyllysine recognition mechanism which potentially links RdDM to H3K9me1 in maize.
Effect of adjuvant therapy on the prognosis in stage I/II uterine carcinosarcoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Fei , Tan Ping , Wang Chang , Ji Xuechao , Chen Aiping
Published: April 2021

Introduction

To assess the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or both following the primary surgery on the progression‐free survival and 5‐year overall survival in patients with stage I/II uterine carcinosarcoma.

Methods

A preliminary investigation was conducted using PubMed and Embase databases to identify relevant studies published up to March, 2020. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by Revman 5.3 software to analysis outcomes.

Results

Six retrospective cohort studies were involved in the analysis, including 1516 patients in observation group, 956 patients in chemotherapy group, 750 patients in radiotherapy group, and 1082 patients in raidochemotherapy group. The results indicated that chemotherapy alone (HR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.38–0.91, p < 0.05) and radiochemotherapy (HR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24–0.53, p < 0.001) were associated with improved progression‐free survival in patients. Similarly, pooled results suggested chemotherapy (HR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.34–0.71, p < 0.001) and radiochemotherapy (HR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.29–0.72, p < 0.001) promoted the 5‐year overall survival compared with observation. However, radiotherapy alone had no statistical significance in improving progression‐free survival (HR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.49–1.29, p = 0.36) and 5‐year overall survival (HR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.38–1.12, p = 0.12).

Discussion

Chemotherapy and radiochemotherapy appeared to be prognostic beneficial to early‐stage uterine carcinosarcoma.
Welfare costs of COVID‐19: Evidence from US counties
Authors: Yilmazkuday Hakan
Published: April 2021

Using daily US county‐level data on consumption, employment, mobility, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) cases, this paper investigates the welfare costs of COVID‐19. The investigation is achieved by using implications of a model, where there is a trade‐off between consumption and COVID‐19 cases that are both determined by the optimal mobility decision of individuals. The empirical results show evidence for about 11% of an average (across days) reduction of welfare during the sample period between February and December 2020 for the average county. There is also evidence for heterogeneous welfare costs across US counties and days, where certain counties have experienced welfare reductions up to on average across days and up to in late March 2020 that are further connected to the socioeconomic characteristics of the US counties.
Sensory characterization of commercial cream cheese by the consumer using check‐all‐that‐apply questions
Authors: Foguel Aline , Neves Rodrigues Ract Juliana , Claro da Silva Roberta
Published: April 2021

Cream cheese is a popular type of fresh and soft cheese made with milk and cream, containing at least 25% fat, dry matter. Milkfat plays an important role in its sensory attributes, such as texture and flavor. However, consumer awareness of the relation between food and health is increasing the search for healthier foods, leading the food industry toward total fat reduction or saturated and trans‐fat replacement, which can alter products' sensory attributes. In this context, the purpose of this study was to create a list of sensory attributes that expresses consumer perception of cream cheese and identifies which ones can induce consumer choices. Five commercial cream cheese samples were analyzed, two traditional and three low‐fat formulations, using duo‐trio, focus group, and check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) sensory analysis methods. Three samples were preferred by consumers, regarding acceptance and purchase intention (two traditional and one low‐fat formulation). Similar intensities of some sensory attributes of these preferred samples were observed, such as higher score for “white,” “matte,” and “milky” and lower notes for “light yellow,” “bright,” and “sweet.” The results suggest that these sensory attributes can predict and influence consumer's acceptance and therefore assist in the development of new products.

Practical Applications

The food industry is constantly adapting to meet consumer demands, which varies according to market trends, changing products that are already for sale or creating new ones. The relationship between the sensory attributes of products and consumer preferences has been identified as one of the main pillars to increase the chance of success in the market. In this context, a list of attributes was created from sensory analysis to express consumer perception of cream cheese and identify which ones can induce consumer choices. Considering that time is valuable for the industry, the results presented in this research may provide an important tool to predict consumer acceptance and reduce the uncertainty when developing new products or changing formulations and processes before launching a product for sale, increasing the chances of success, and decreasing research time.
The wild boar Sus scrofa as a threat to ground‐nesting bird species: an artificial nest experiment
Authors: Mori E. , Lazzeri L. , Ferretti F. , Gordigiani L. , Rubolini D.
Published: April 2021

Nest predation is reported as a cause of reproductive failure of ground‐nesting bird species whose populations in Europe are declining. Conversely, European populations of the wild boar Sus scrofa have been expanding, leading to increasing threats to habitats and ecological communities. The impacts of wild boar on ground‐nesting bird species are poorly known and have never been explicitly assessed. We conducted an artificial ground‐nest experiment in Mediterranean habitats of central Italy using camera traps to assess predator identities. Deployed nests contained quail or chicken eggs, and predation occurred within one week for 47/48 deployments carried out during March‐July 2020. The wild boar was the most common predator (36% deployments), followed by the magpie Pica pica (18%), the red fox Vulpes vulpes (10%) and the pine marten Martes martes (10%). Predation by other species was occasionally observed. Egg type and deployment habitat did not significantly influence time to predation or the likelihood that a nest was preyed upon by wild boar, respectively. The presence of a stuffed gull close to the nests significantly delayed predation. Nests preyed by birds and mammals other than wild boar were often subsequently scavenged by wild boar, which consumed the remaining eggs or eggshells. Time to predation increased from spring to summer, suggesting a reduction of predation intensity during periods when the availability of natural eggs is lowest. The likelihood of a nest being preyed upon by the wild boar compared to other predators increased when wild boar frequency of occurrence in 1‐week camera trap shootings was the highest, suggesting that higher abundance/activity of this species triggered increased egg predation. The wild boar might act as major predators of ground‐nesting bird species in Mediterranean habitats and the large‐scale population increase of this ungulate should be considered a significant threat to ground‐nesting species of European conservation concern.
Many roles for oligodendrocyte precursor cells in physiology and pathology
Authors: Nishiyama Akiko , Serwanski David R. , Pfeiffer Friederike
Published: April 2021

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are a fourth resident glial cell population in the mammalian central nervous system. They are evenly distributed throughout the gray and white matter and continue to proliferate and generate new oligodendrocytes (OLs) throughout life. They were understudied until a few decades ago when immunolabeling for NG2 and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha revealed cells that are distinct from mature OLs, astrocytes, neurons, and microglia. In this review, we provide a summary of the known properties of OPCs with some historical background, followed by highlights from recent studies that suggest new roles for OPCs in certain pathological conditions.
The relationship between mother‐infant contact time and changes in postpartum depression and mother‐infant attachment among mothers staying at postpartum care centers: An observational study
Authors: Cho Heajin , Jeong Ihn Sook
Published: April 2021

This observational study investigated the relationship between mother‐infant contact time and changes in postpartum depression and mother‐infant attachment. The study population consisted of 101 mothers staying for 14 days at two postpartum care centers in Busan, Republic of Korea. Data were collected from February to March 2018 using a self‐administered questionnaire that covered postpartum depression, mother‐infant attachment, and included a contact timesheet. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, Kruskal–Wallis tests, and multiple linear regression with bootstrapping estimation. The mean daily contact time was 5.31 ± 1.80 h. The mean postpartum depression decreased from 8.76 ± 7.10 points at admission to 5.16 ± 3.35 points at discharge. By increasing daily kangaroo mother care time by 1 h, postpartum depression was decreased by 4.02 points. However, changes in mother‐infant attachment were not related to contact time. Kangaroo mother care was effective in decreasing postpartum depression among the mothers at the postpartum care centers. Nurses working at the care centers should encourage mothers to participate in kangaroo mother care programs. Further studies considering various contacts, such as baby massage or bathing, are recommended.
Informal Entrepreneurial Network Education as a Catalyst for Women’s Enterprises Sustainability: Evidence From Nigeria
Authors: ESSIEN Adeola Adesola
Published: April 2021

Extant studies in the literature have found that informal entrepreneurship education has concentrated largely on technical skills and has continually ignored the current needs of informal entrepreneurs at the stage of entry and development performance of most informal enterprises. In spite of Africa informal sector that accounted for 85.5% informal enterprises in size than other continents, yet, it is worrisome that the sub-Saharan Africa contribution of informal sector to gross domestic product (GDP) between 2000 and 2010 has dropped from 63.6% to 55%, resulting to rising poverty rate, alarming youth unemployment rate, higher enterprises closure rate, and indeed, declining unstable enterprises. As such, this study empirically examines the impact of informal entrepreneurial network education on women’s enterprises sustainability in Nigeria, using NECA Women entrepreneurs association. To achieve this specific objective, the study decomposed informal entrepreneurial network into three networks, the NECA Women entrepreneurs association, the Government agencies association, and the social media platform and the average value represent the informal entrepreneurial network education to regress on the dependent variable, the women enterprises sustainability. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed and administered via the google survey from the six-geopolitical regions in Nigeria. The study employed statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) to estimate the research questions and the impact of informal entrepreneurial network education on women enterprises sustainability, using descriptive statistics and OLS regression respectively. The descriptive results found that of the three informal entrepreneurial networks, NECA women association exhibited a strong interactive (3.28 of 5.00 Likert scale) entrepreneurial network education than use of government agencies and social media platform that exhibited weak interactive (1.8 and 1.94 of 5.00 Likert scale) enterperneurial network education among informal entrepreneurs in Nigeria. In addition, OLS regression result found that all three informal entrepreneurial networks education has a 38.9% impact on women’s enterprises sustainability within the study periods of October and December, 2020 in Nigeria at 1% level of significance. Based on the results, the study concluded that NECA women entrepreneurial interactive network outperformed both government agencies and social media interactive networks and thus, the study recommends that the NECA women entrepreneurs should consolidate more than the economic perspective by extending to the remaining triple bottom line factors such as environmental and social factors as to meet both current needs and future generation needs of the enterprises stakeholders in this study.
Galois symmetries of knot spaces
Authors: Boavida de Brito Pedro , Horel Geoffroy
Published: April 2021

We exploit the Galois symmetries of the little disks operads to show that many differentials in the Goodwillie–Weiss spectral sequences approximating the homology and homotopy of knot spaces vanish at a prime $p$. Combined with recent results on the relationship between embedding calculus and finite-type theory, we deduce that the $(n+1)$th Goodwillie–Weiss approximation is a $p$-local universal Vassiliev invariant of degree $\leq n$ for every $n \leq p + 1$.
LncRNA NEAT1 accelerates renal tubular epithelial cell damage by modulating mitophagy via miR‐150‐5p–DRP1 axis in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Yang Dan‐Yi , Zhou Xiang , Liu Zhi‐Wen , Xu Xiang‐Qing , Liu Chan
Published: April 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe complication of diabetes correlated with a higher mortality rate in diabetic patients. Renal tubular injury participates in the pathogenesis of DN. We aimed to uncover the biological function of the NEAT1–miR‐150‐5p–DRP1 axis in an in vitro model of DN and elaborate the potential mechanisms.

What is the main finding and its importance?

NEAT1 facilitated high glucose‐induced damage in HK‐2 cells by reducing mitophagy via the miR‐150‐5p–DRP1 axis, which sheds light on DN pathogenesis and reveals a potential treatment for DN.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe complication in diabetic patients, with a high mortality rate. Renal tubular injury is involved in the pathogenesis of DN. In this study, we aimed to uncover the regulatory roles of the NEAT1–miR‐150‐5p–DRP1 axis in an in vitro model of DN and its possible mechanisms. High glucose‐challenged HK‐2 cells were used as an in vitro DN model. NEAT1, miR‐150‐5p and DRP1 levels were assessed by RT‐qPCR. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. MitoSOX Red and JC‐1 were used to evaluate intracellular production of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively. Lactate dehydrogenase release and superoxide dismutase activity were assessed with commercial kits. The protein levels of DRP1, p62, BECN1(beclin 1) and BNIP3 were determined by western blotting. The interaction between NEAT1 (DRP1) and miR‐150‐5p was verified by a dual‐luciferase reporter assay and an RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Our results showed that in response to high glucose the NEAT1 and DRP1 levels were upregulated, whereas the miR‐150‐5p level was downregulated in HK‐2 cells. Knockdown of NEAT1 or DRP1 in high glucose‐challenged HK‐2 cells inhibited excessive reactive oxygen species production and lactate dehydrogenase release, increased cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential and superoxide dismutase activity and enhanced mitophagy. Inhibition of miR‐150‐5p resulted in the opposite results. Mechanistically, NEAT1 sponged miR‐150‐5p to increase the DRP1 level. Moreover, silencing of NEAT1 or DRP1 could counteract miR‐150‐5p inhibition‐induced deleterious effects. Collectively, our findings indicate that NEAT1 facilitates high glucose‐induced damage in HK‐2 cells by suppressing mitophagy via the miR‐150‐5p–DRP 1 axis, which sheds light on a novel mechanism of DN.
An Equality Constrained RQP Algorithm Based on the Augmented Lagrangian Penalty Function
Authors: Chen C. , Kong W. C. , Cha J. Z.
Published: April 2021

In comparative studies of constrained optimization methods the equality contrained recursive quadratic programming procedure has performed very favorably, particularly in terms of required computer time for execution. Biggs has formulated a strategy based on a quadratic penalty function and proved the global convergence of the method. This paper reformulates the procedure based on a Lagrangian penalty function leading to improved performance and reduced sensitivity to the algorithm parameters. The formulation and algorithm are described herein and global convergence is demonstrated. Evaluation results on several test problems are presented to allow comparisons with other algorithms of the same type.
A Combined Local-Global Active Set Strategy for Nonlinear Design Optimization
Authors: Li Heng Long , Papalambros P. Y.
Published: April 2021

Local and global knowledge in rule-based forms is combined in an active set strategy for nonlinear programming design models. The combined strategy is implemented with a reduced gradient algorithm for solution of the equality constrained subproblem. The strategy unifies previously separate local and global strategies. Algorithmic implementation and performance are discussed together with examples. This article is a sequel to a previous one describing a linear programming application of the strategy.
Optimizing the Dynamic Behavior of Strain-Gaged Force Sensors
Authors: Reuber M. , Barratt C. , Kornegay J.
Published: April 2021

The optimum design of strain-gaged force sensors is examined for maximum stiffness, sensitivity, and dynamic behavior. Guidelines derived from the formulation (and solution to) the classical optimization problem state that sensors with less sensitivity produce higher stiffness, sensors with small geometries will yield higher equivalent stiffness for the same sensitivity, and the preferred strain mode depends on the range of sensitivity being considered. The optimum design techniques are illustrated by analyzing the design of a sensor used to measure the forces produced in robotic water-jet cutting.
The Optimal Design of a Rotary Type Actuator for Magnetic Disk Drives
Authors: Robertson W. D. , Gabriele G. A.
Published: April 2021

One of the most important assemblies in any computer disk drive is the actuator which positions the read/write coil over the disk. Historically, actuators have been of the linear type, but in recent years the rotary actuator has become more popular because of its lower inertia and higher reliability. In this paper we describe the optimization of the rotary actuator geometry to achieve a minimum seek time. An objective function which approximates seek-time is derived based on the polar moment of inertia and the sweep of the actuator. A set of constraints is also developed which control mechanical resonances, skew angles, and physical position of the actuator. An optimal solution is presented as well as a sensitivity study of the final design. It is shown that the final design is relatively insensitive to changes in the problem parameters. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis reveals that a static balance constraint which is originally ignored, is not necessary.
Finite Element Analysis and Optimum Design for Precision Spindle System With Journal Bearing
Authors: Gao J. Z. , Lu X. S.
Published: April 2021

Spindle unit with various journal bearings is increasingly adopted in numerous machine tools. Due to overlooking the interaction between spindle and bearings in analysis and optimization leads to a less accuracy for simulating real work codition. In order to overcome this shortage, a practical coordination optimization strategy is perposed. Taking both bearing and spindle as subsystems of the overall system, using coordinator to account the interaction. Equivalent stiffness is adopted to ensure the analysis accuracy and save the computation time. An optimum design example is presented.
Optimum Design of the Crank Rocker Four Bar Mechanism for Specified Output Oscillation Angle and Timing Ratio
Authors: Suchora D. H. , Wrightson G.
Published: April 2021

In designing a crank rocker four bar mechanism with a uniform input rotation typical input parameters are the required total output oscillation angle and the timing ratio of the advance to return cycle time. In determining an optimum design the parameters of interest are usually the extreme transmission angles and the ratio of the longest to shortest link length occuring in the mechanism.

This work first develops an analytic construction of the link lengths and worst transmission angles based on the necessary geometry for a given output angle of oscillation and required timing ratio. The resulting equations are programmed and graphs developed which give the variation of extreme transmission angle and maximum link length ratio as a function of the specified output angle of oscillation, timing ratio, and geometric construction variables. Using these graphs a designer will be able to easily select optimum designs based on worst transmission angles and link length ratios. Examples are included.
Comparison of Modelling Methods for Hydraulic Valve Gear
Authors: Shang H. , Matthew G. K. , Luo W.
Published: April 2021

A combined lumped/distributed parameter model for the follower system of a hydraulically operated valve is compared to a lumped parameter model of the same system. Since previous results show excellent correspondence between the lumped/distributed parameter model and measured response, it is natural to attempt to simplify the model and to again perform a comparison. Results of several examples are shown.
Design and Mechanics of Multi-Lay Wire Strands
Authors: Velinsky S. A.
Published: April 2021

Wire strands and ropes have been used extensively for many years. However, the method for designing these elements remains highly dependent on the designer’s experience. In recent years, capabilities for the analysis of wire rope have progressed to a level where a re-evaluation of wire rope design is appropriate. Recently, a linearized theory has been developed that allows a relatively simple method for analyzing complex strands and wire ropes. This theory, through substantiation with experiment, is felt to be reasonably accurate for most wire rope behavior.

The present paper considers multi-lay wire strands and adds generality to the linearized theory to account for strands with any number and direction of wire lays. The geometry of wire strands is investigated in detail and a design methodology for strand geometry, including sizing the wires, is devised. The theory is then utilized to examine the effects of various design parameters on strand properties.
A Computer Based Design Methodology
Authors: Andersen K. , Cook G. E. , Strauss A. M.
Published: April 2021

A methodology is presented for automating or at least aiding a human designer in selection of a design concept for given design requirements. Futhermore the proposed methodology provides reasonable estimates for the various parameters of the design structure. This is accomplished by representing design requirements and design parameters as multidimensional vectors and performing appropriate interpolations to estimate feasible solutions.
Decision Making in the Choosing of New Materials From the Standpoint of Machine Structural Dynamics
Authors: Yoshimura M.
Published: April 2021

The use of a new material is a hopeful strategy for breaking through the barrier of improving the product performance and/or the lowering of the product manufacturing cost. However, if the definite decision making method for selection of materials has not been established, use of a new material may not result in enhancement of the product performance and / or reduction of the product manufacturing cost. This paper proposes a methodology for decision making of a material used in machine structures from the standpoint of structural dynamics. First, purposes for use of new materials and evaluative parameters for decision making of material choice are described, and fundamental knowledge and theorems for decision making are established. Then, general decision making procedures for material choice are constructed. Finally, for model cases of purposes for use of new materials, detailed decision procedures are explained using also some numerical examples.
A PHIGS-Based Graphics Input Interface for Spatial Mechanism Design
Authors: Thatch B. R. , Myklebust A.
Published: April 2021

Creation of input specifications for synthesis or analysis of spatial mechanisms can be a significant problem. A graphics preprocessor which interactively assists in the definition of spatial mechanism problems is described. New methods of depth cucing and six DOF data entry are presented. To achieve graphics device-independence, the proposed graphics standard PHIGS (Programmer’s Hierarchical Interactive Graphics System) is used. Examples of application are presented including generation of input commands for Integrated Mechanisms Program (IMP) and generation of input for spatial mechanism synthesis routines.
An Extended Relational Database for Conceptual Analysis of Mechanical Design
Authors: Lai K.
Published: April 2021

This paper presents an extended relational database system with the following features: (1) Hierarchically structured objects can be represented and manipulated integrally, (2) Design entities and design concepts can be represented and manipulated at higher abstract levels, and (3) Addition of multiple inference mechanisms to relational algebra allows intelligent solutions be developed within this robust representational environment. This Extended Relational Data Base has been successfully used to automate the conceptual analysis process of mechanical design.
Cam Motion Synthesis Using Spline Functions: Part II — Applications
Authors: Tsay D. M. , Huey C. O.
Published: April 2021

A series of examples is presented to illustrate the application of B-spline functions in cam motion synthesis. The use of spline functions affords a systematic, easily automated approach to the development of cam motion programs. It permits sufficient user interaction to allow refined motion programs to be obtained. It is applicable when the motion requirements can be stated as a set of discretely defined kinematic constraints. The examples indicate the versatility of the spline method by showing how it can be used for both routing and demanding cases and for an array of tasks that ordinarily cannot be accomplished by single motion synthesis technique.
Selective Precision Synthesis of the Spatial Slider Crank Mechanism for Path and Function Generation
Authors: Premkumar P. , Dhall S. R. , Kramer S. N.
Published: April 2021

Analysis of the RRSC spatial slider crank mechanism for path generation with prescribed input timing and for function generation are presented here in closed form. A computer aided design technique for the synthesis of the RRSC path generating and function generating mechanisms is also being presented using the Selective Precision Synthesis technique.

The analysis uses the spatial rotation matrices to obtain a fourth order polynomial for the coupler link rotations with the coefficients expressed in terms of the link lengths and input link rotation. This polynomial is solved in closed form to determine the coupler link rotations which are then used to determine the locations of the path point, the output link rotations and the displacement of the slider at the cylindrical joint.

For synthesis, nonlinear inequality constraint equations relating the generated and the desired path points or slider displacements are formulated. These constraints define accuracy neighborhoods around each of the “n” prescribed path points (or slider displacements), and are solved using the Generalized Reduced Gradient method of optimization.
Simulation of Planar Dynamic Mechanical Systems With Changing Topologies: Part I — Characterization and Prediction of the Kinematic Constraint Changes
Authors: Gilmore B. J. , Cipra R. J.
Published: April 2021

Due to changes in the kinematic constraints, many mechanical systems are described by discontinuous equations of motion. This paper addresses those changes in the kinematic constraints which are caused by planar bodies contacting and separating. A strategy to automatically predict and detect the kinematic constraint changes, which are functions of the system dynamics, is presented in Part I. The strategy employs the concepts of point to line contact kinematic constraints, force closure, and ray firing together with the information provided by the rigid bodies’ boundary descriptions, state variables, and reaction forces to characterize the kinematic constraint changes. Since the strategy automatically predicts and detects constraint changes, it is capable of simulating mechanical systems with unpredictable or unforeseen changes in topology. Part II presents the implementation of the characterizations into a simulation strategy and presents examples.
The Use of IGES in Rapid and Automated Design Prototyping
Authors: Kirk J. A. , Anand D. K. , Anjanappa M. , Rickert W. K.
Published: April 2021

The Initial Graphic Exchange Specification (IGES) for design data and the EIA standard M and G Codes for Numerically Controlled machines (N/C) is used to develop an automated interface between existing computer aided design systems and N/C manufacturing systems. The Flexible Manufacturing Protocol, developed at the University of Maryland, outlines such an interface to control automated manufacturing cells used for prototyping quick design changes. This paper demonstrates one application of the protocol, developing an automated IGES to CNC interface to control a 3 axis CNC machining center given the geometric representation of the part in IGES format. Wireframe representations of 2-1/2 dimensional parts, composed of linear elements, are the primary tools used for design representation. The automated production of the sample part, presented in this paper, demonstrates that rapid prototyping is possible using an IGES design data file as input to the protocol.
Model Based Rigid Body Guidance in Presence of Non-Convex Geometric Constraints
Authors: Ku T. S. , Ravani B.
Published: April 2021

This paper presents an efficient algorithm for guidance of a convex rigid body in-between non-convex polygonal objects in a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) environment. A shrinking procedure is used that separates the kinematic from the shape constraints by reducing the problem to that of guidance of a line segment in an expanded environment. A slicing technique together with an algorithm for decomposition of the interface channel between the non-convex objects is used to generate the motion program for the line segment. The results can be applied to model based guidance of mobile robots or automatic motion planning for robot manipulators.
A Multi-Level Optimization-Based Design Procedure Using Global Monotonicity Analysis
Authors: Azarm S. , Li W.-C.
Published: April 2021

This paper describes application of global monotonicity analysis within a decomposition framework. We present a general formulation and solution procedure, based on a bottom-level global monotornicity analysis, for a design optimization problem which is decomposed into three levels of subproblems. A well-known gear reducer example illustrates application of the method.
Optimal Synthesis of Large Systems Using Decomposition Techniques and Parallel Processing
Authors: Bhatt V. , Ragsdell K. M.
Published: April 2021

Various approaches to multilevel decomposition of large-scale systems are considered in this paper. A linear decomposition scheme based on the Sobieski algorithm is selected as a vehicle for automated synthesis of a complete vehicle configuration in a parallel processing environment. The research is in a developmental stage. Preliminary numerical results are presented for several example problems.
Computer Aided Design of Internal Involute Spur Gears
Authors: Tsay Chung-Biau
Published: April 2021

The modern theory of gearing provides principles of generation for conjugate gear tooth surfaces while computer aided design is a very powerful tool in designing a gear train with conjugate shaped tooth surfaces. It is possible to set up a mathematical model for internal involute spur gears if the theory of gearing and the concept of differential geometry together with computer aided design technique have been applied. The derived mathematical model of internal involute spur gears can be used for computer simulation of conditions of meshing, tooth contact analysis, stress analysis, dynamic analysis, lubricating analysis, and wearing analysis of the gear train.

This paper covered the solutions to the following problems : (a) method of generation for internal spur gears with conjugate tooth surfaces; (b) derivation of equations for gear tooth surfaces and their surface unit normals; and (c) computer graphics of generated internal involute spur gears.
Translational Joints in Flexible Multibody Dynamics
Authors: Hwang R. S. , Haug E. J.
Published: April 2021

Formulations of translational kinematic constraints between flexible bodies are developed to model deformatioin of flexible surfaces that move relative to one another. Three types of flexible translational articulated joints are presented The joint formulations are illustrated in analysis of prototype systems with translational joints. Global deformation modes and substructure local deformation modes are used and compared in numerical examples.
The Design Environment Simulator
Authors: Lesh R. , Ragsdell K. M.
Published: April 2021

Every engineer who has worked in industry understands what is meant by “design.” If asked, however, to explain in simple terms what engineering design is, the engineer will invariably have difficulty expressing his understanding of design. It seems that design as a process is not really understood, it is just done. Design is an art, not a science. This paper proposes a modelling method that will serve as a foundation for understanding the design process. In addition, this paper describes an experimental method for exploring design that may validate the model and provide the data necessary to use the model.