bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of PPO-Inhibiting Herbicides on the Growth and Sex Ratio of a Dioecious Weed Species Amaranthus palmeri (Palmer Amaranth)
Authors: Rumpa Mafia M. , Krausz Ronald F. , Gibson David J. , Gage Karla L.
Published: May 2019

Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson (Palmer amaranth) is a fast-growing, dioecious, highly competitive agricultural weed species, which is spreading across the US Midwest. Population sex ratios are an important consideration in the management of A. palmeri populations as this species has become resistant to several herbicide sites of action, and there is need to minimize seed production by female plants. Environmental conditions, particularly stressors, may influence sex ratios, and herbicides act as major stressors and evolutionary filters in agricultural fields. Amaranthus spp. have shown a tendency for rapid evolution of herbicide resistance, with the frequency of protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO)-inhibitor resistance increasing across the Midwestern US. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of two PPO-inhibiting herbicide treatments of either lactofen or fomesafen on four different Illinois populations (Cahokia, Collinsville, Rend Lake, and Massac). Plants raised from seed from the Massac population were tallest, and both males and females from this population also had the highest vegetative biomass. Female plants from the Collinsville population had more reproductive biomass than male plants. Control populations were male-biased (Cahokia, Collinsville), female-biased (Masaac), and 1:1 (Rend Lake). Lactofen shifted the male-biased populations to female-biased or 1:1 and the female-biased population to 1:1. Fomesafen-treated populations were male-biased or 1:1. This study suggests that PPO-inhibiting herbicide treatments may influence the growth and sex ratio of A. palmeri populations, which is an underlying factor in the rate of herbicide evolution in this species. An understanding of the underlying mechanisms of how external factors influence sex ratios may eventually provide an opportunity to reduce seed production in populations by shifting sex ratios towards a male bias.
Potential Benefits of Polymers in Soil Erosion Control for Agronomical Plans: A Laboratory Experiment
Authors: Yakupoglu Tugrul , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , Cerdà Artemi
Published: May 2019

New management and techniques to reduce soil and water losses are necessary to achieve goals related to sustainability and develop useful agronomical plans. Among the strategies to reduce soil losses, the use of polymers has been studied but little is known about the effect of them on soil aggregates under extreme rainfall conditions. The main aim of this study was to compare the effects of polyacrylamide (PAM) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) on initial soil erosion process activation. We applied both products on soils and soil aggregate stability was measured on polymer treated and control plots. Laboratory erosion plots (pans) were placed on 15% slope, and sequential simulated rainfalls (under dry and wet conditions) with 360 mm h−1 intensity were applied for 12 min. Time to runoff, total runoff, runoff sediment yield, and splash sediment yield were determined. The results show that polymers do not delay runoff initiation; however, they reduced total runoff, sediment yield, and soil transported by the splash. PVA was not effective in reducing the total runoff during the first rainfall being PAM more effective in this way. However, under the sequential rainfall, both polymers obtained positive results, showing PAM some improvements in comparison to PVA. The effect of the polymer to reduce soil transported by splash after performing the second rainfall simulation was clearly demonstrated, meanwhile the effects during the first simulation were not significant. The effectiveness of the polymers on soil aggregates increased with increasing aggregate size. The application of polymers reached the highest efficiency on aggregates of 6.4 mm in diameter.
Sentinel 2-Based Nitrogen VRT Fertilization in Wheat: Comparison between Traditional and Simple Precision Practices
Authors: Vizzari Marco , Santaga Francesco , Benincasa Paolo
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to compare standard and precision nitrogen (N) fertilization with variable rate technology (VRT) in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) by combining data of NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) from the Sentinel 2 satellite, grain yield mapping, and protein content. Precision N rates were calculated using simple linear models that can be easily used by non-specialists of precision agriculture, starting from widely available Sentinel 2 NDVI data. To remove the effects of not measured or unknown factors, the study area of about 14 hectares, located in Central Italy, was divided into 168 experimental units laid down in a randomized design. The first fertilization rate was the same for all experimental units (30 kg N ha−1). The second one was varied according to three different treatments: 1) a standard rate of 120 kg N ha−1 calculated by a common N balance; 2) a variable rate (60–120 kg N ha−1) calculated from NDVI using a linear model where the maximum rate was equal to the standard rate (Var-N-low); 3) a variable rate (90–150 kg N ha−1) calculated from NDVI using a linear model where the mean rate was equal to the standard rate (Var-N-high). Results indicate that differences between treatments in crop vegetation index, grain yield, and protein content were negligible and generally not significant. This evidence suggests that a low-N management approach, based on simple linear NDVI models and VRT, may considerably reduce the economic and environmental impact of N fertilization in winter wheat.
Veterinary Students’ Perception and Understanding of Issues Surrounding the Slaughter of Animals According to the Rules of Halal: A Survey of Students from Four English Universities
Authors: Fuseini Awal , Grist Andrew , Knowles Toby G.
Published: May 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the perception and level of understanding of religious slaughter issues, and the regulations governing the process, amongst veterinary students in England. A total of 459 veterinary students in different levels, or years of study (years 1–5), were surveyed. On whether there is a need for food animals to be stunned prior to slaughter, the majority of respondents 437 (95.2%) indicated that they would want all animals to be stunned before slaughter, including during religious slaughter, 17 (3.6%) either did not have an opinion or indicated ‘other’ as their preferred option and 5 (1.1%) indicated that religious slaughter should be exempt from stunning in order to comply with traditional religious values. The results showed a significant association between respondents’ year of study and (i) their understanding of UK animal welfare (at slaughter) regulations, (ii) their recognition of stunning as a pain-abolishing procedure and (iii) the likelihood of them wittingly purchasing and consuming meat from animals that have been stunned prior to slaughter, and also classified as Halal.
Maternal Metabolic Demands Caused by Pregnancy and Lactation: Association with Productivity and Offspring Phenotype in High-Yielding Dairy Ewes
Authors: Pesántez-Pacheco José Luis , Heras-Molina Ana , Torres-Rovira Laura , Sanz-Fernández María Victoria , García-Contreras Consolación , Vázquez-Gómez Marta , Feyjoo Pablo , Cáceres Elisa , Frías-Mateo Millán , Hernández Fernando , Martínez-Ros Paula , González-Martin Juan Vicente , González-Bulnes Antonio , Astiz Susana
Published: May 2019

Pregnancy and lactation, especially when concurrent, create a rather metabolically demanding situation in dairy ruminants, but little is known about their effects on offspring phenotype and milk yield. Here, we evaluated the impact of pregnancy and lactation on the metabolic traits and productive performance of Lacaune dairy sheep and their offspring. Productive performance was measured in terms of milk yield, body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), and size. Productivity was assessed during mid-pregnancy (75 ± 5 d) and late pregnancy (142 ± 4 d) and at 52 ± 5 d in the postpartum period. During pregnancy, high-yielding ewes had higher BW, BCS, plasma glucose, cholesterol, β-OHB, and NEFA than low-yielding ewes, but lower levels of lactate and urea. High-yielding animals had lower BCS after lambing, but their lambs showed greater growth. Productivity during lactation was affected by ewe age and parity: Mature ewes (but not maiden sheep) whose BCS increased steeply during pregnancy yielded more milk in the subsequent lactation than those whose BCS did not increase. Lamb BW and size were positively associated with milk yield in the subsequent lactation. Mature ewes had higher yields than maiden sheep, and mature ewes with multiple pregnancies produced more milk than those with singleton pregnancies. Ewes with male singleton pregnancies also showed higher yield than those with female singletons. These results demonstrate that high-yielding dairy sheep, when appropriately fed and managed, can adequately cover the metabolic demands of pregnancy and high milk production (even when concurrent) without losing productivity.
Effect of Sweet Potato Vine on the Onset of Puberty and Follicle Development in Chinese Meishan Gilts
Authors: Zhang Pan , Cao Meng , Li Jian , Lin Yan , Fang Zhengfeng , Che Lianqiang , Feng Bin , Zhuo Yong , Wang Jianping , Wu De , Xu Shengyu
Published: May 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of sweet potato vine on the onset of puberty and the follicular development in the ovaries of Chinese Meishan gilts. A total of 20 Meishan gilts (initial body weight at 30 ± 0.18 kg) were randomly fed a control (CON) or sweet potato vine (SPV) supplemented diet until 19 days following the third estrous. Sweet potato vine was instead of part of basal diet with the same amount of energy and protein in the sweet potato vine group. The results indicate that gilts fed with sweet potato vine reached puberty 9.4 days later. The development of ovaries was enhanced by sweet potato vine supplementation, characterized by an increase (p < 0.05) in the relative weight of the ovaries and the number of large follicles (>5 mm). Sweet potato vine supplementation increased (p < 0.05) the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and reduced (p < 0.05) the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum of the gilts. Also, the expression of superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) mRNA in the granulosa cells from the large follicle (>5 mm) of gilts in the SPV group were increased (p < 0.05) as compared with the CON group. These results indicate that gilts fed with sweet potato vine exhibited delayed puberty as well as improved follicular development, which may contribute to the reproductive performance of Chinese Meishan gilts.
Assessment of Residual Feed Intake and Its Relevant Measurements in Two Varieties of Japanese Quails (Coturnixcoturnix japonica) under High Environmental Temperature
Authors: Fathi Moataz M. , Al-Homidan Ibrahim , Ebeid Tarek A. , Galal Ahmed , Abou-Emera Osama K.
Published: May 2019

Three hundred and ten 12-week-old laying Japanese quails (Coturnixcoturnix japonica) from gray and white varieties (155 each) were randomly selected from the initial population and kept in individual battery cages. The measurements of growth and egg production were determined to derive residual feed intake (RFI). The relationship between RFI and egg quality, blood parameters, and carcass characteristics was also determined. The results indicated that the gray quails had significantly higher egg mass and lower broken eggs compared to the white quails. A significant increase of eggshell strength and shell percentage was found in eggs produced from gray quails compared to their white counterparts, although their shell thickness means weresimilar. The results of multiple regression analysis clearly identified a significant effect of metabolic body weight and egg mass for the computation of expected feed intake, rather than body weight gain, in both varieties of Japanese quails. A strong positive correlation between RFI and feed intake in both gray and white quail varieties was found. The same trend was also observed for feed conversion ratio (FCR). Therefore, including RFI in the selection criteria of Japanese quails in order to improve FCR under high environmental temperature is highly recommended.
Sustainable Italian Cities: The Added Value of Biomethane from Organic Waste
Authors: Cucchiella Federica , D’Adamo Idiano , Gastaldi Massimo
Published: May 2019

This work focuses on the profitability of biomethane plants and the environmental benefits obtained recovering the organic fraction of municipal solid waste in Italy. The economic model is based on the calculations of the net present value, considering multiple capacities of biomethane production (ranging from 50 to 500 m3/h) and alternative scenarios based on the variation in subsidies, the selling price of biomethane, and the net revenues from the treatment of organic waste. The environmental analysis quantifies the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions obtained by natural gas vehicles fueled by biomethane. The economic and environmental results encourage energy change that can be achieved by municipalities that support the transformation of natural resources into green fuels. Across 15 Italian municipalities, the potential biomethane production varies from 80.4 million m3/year to 102.8 million m3/year, with an overall net present value ranging from 135 to 187 million €. In addition, the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions varies from 127 to 162 thousand-ton CO2eq/year. Both the economic and environmental results demonstrate that biomethane is a renewable resource with added value for municipalities.
Multitask-Based Trajectory Planning for Redundant Space Robotics Using Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Suping , Zhu Zhanxia , Luo Jianjun
Published: May 2019

This work addresses the multitask-based trajectory-planning problem (MTTP) for space robotics, which is an emerging application of successively executing tasks in assembly of the International Space Station. The MTTP is transformed into a parameter-optimization problem, where piecewise continuous-sine functions are employed to depict the joint trajectories. An improved genetic algorithm (IGA) is developed to optimize the unknown parameters. In the IGA, each chromosome consists of three parts, namely the waypoint sequence, the sequence of the joint configurations, and a special value for the depiction of the joint trajectories. Numerical simulations, including comparisons with two other approaches, are developed to test IGA validity.
A Self-Configuring Membership-Function-Based Approach for Fuzzy Fatigue Reliability Optimization of Welded A-Type Frame Considering Multi-Source Uncertainties
Authors: Mi Chengji , Li Wentai , Xiao Xuewen , Liu Jinhua , Ming Xingzu
Published: May 2019

A large number of sample data is needed to ascertain the characteristic parameters of traditional membership function, so that the calculated fuzzy fatigue reliability based on this method has certain errors for engineering structures without enough samples. A fuzzy fatigue reliability analysis method based on self-configuring membership function is proposed, while considering its multi-source uncertainties in the design, manufacture, and use stage in order to accurately evaluate fatigue reliability of welded A-type frame. In this paper, a novel membership function was presented on account of a small amount of sample data, which some experimental results verified. The mathematical expression for failure probability was deduced from the suggested model, as well as fatigue reliability. Subsequently, the thickness of steel plate defined in design stage, the material properties of weld metal that is produced in manufacture stage, and the loads at different connection sites determined in use stage were all considered as the random variables, which were obtained from Latin hypercube sampling, and the fatigue limit of weld metal was deemed as the fuzzy variable. Based on the response surface method, the fuzzy fatigue reliability performance function was constructed to assess failure probability of welded A-type frame under the condition of downhill and turning braking with full load, while its fatigue reliability was found to be far less than 90%. The fuzzy fatigue reliability optimization that was based on genetic algorithm was implemented, which showed that its reliability varied from 69.47% to 95.12%.
Vapor Compounds Released from Nicotine-Free Inhalators as a Smoking-Cessation Aid
Authors: Kwak Ho-Seok , Han Jung-Yeol , Koren Gideon , Jo Sang-Hee , Kim Ki-Hyun
Published: May 2019

The health risks of cigarette smoking have been reported to increase continuously, while it is estimated to be responsible for the death toll of more than seven million people globally each year. In an effort to reduce the risk involved in cigarette smoking, nicotine-free inhalators have been developed as smoking-cessation aids. To evaluate the feasibility of nicotine-free inhalators in such respect, we investigated the composition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from the consumption of nicotine-free inhalators of which major components include natural essential oils and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Vapor samples from nicotine-free inhalators were generated and collected for analysis using an e-cigarette auto-sampler. The vapor samples were captured onto a multi-bed sorbent tube sampler and a 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) cartridge for the quantitative analysis with the aid of thermal desorption-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. A total of 29 VOCs were determined in vapor samples at concentrations below 0.2 ppm. Concentrations of (+)-isomenthone and acrolein slightly exceeded the derived no-effect level (DNEL) or sensory irritation level. However, VOCs were below the concentration exposure limit, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). According to our study, most of the aroma compounds and VOCs released from nicotine-free inhalator were lower than the DNEL or sensory irritation level. Consequently, it is found that nicotine-free inhalators could be safe to use in reference to toxic guidelines for inhalation exposure. However, if the use of nicotine-free inhalators is over prolonged period, it can also increase the risk of exposure to potentially toxic compounds.
Calibration of a Rotating or Revolving Platform with a LiDAR Sensor
Authors: Claer Mario , Ferrein Alexander , Schiffer Stefan
Published: May 2019

Perceiving its environment in 3D is an important ability for a modern robot. Today, this is often done using LiDARs which come with a strongly limited field of view (FOV), however. To extend their FOV, the sensors are mounted on driving vehicles in several different ways. This allows 3D perception even with 2D LiDARs if a corresponding localization system or technique is available. Another popular way to gain most information of the scanners is to mount them on a rotating carrier platform. In this way, their measurements in different directions can be collected and transformed into a common frame, in order to achieve a nearly full spherical perception. However, this is only possible if the kinetic chains of the platforms are known exactly, that is, if the LiDAR pose w.r.t. to its rotation center is well known. The manual measurement of these chains is often very cumbersome or sometimes even impossible to do with the necessary precision. Our paper proposes a method to calibrate the extrinsic LiDAR parameters by decoupling the rotation from the full six degrees of freedom transform and optimizing both separately. Thus, one error measure for the orientation and one for the translation with known orientation are minimized subsequently with a combination of a consecutive grid search and a gradient descent. Both error measures are inferred from spherical calibration targets. Our experiments with the method suggest that the main influences on the calibration results come from the the distance to the calibration targets, the accuracy of their center point estimation and the search grid resolution. However, our proposed calibration method improves the extrinsic parameters even with unfavourable configurations and from inaccurate initial pose guesses.
Endophytic Colonization of Pepper (Capsicum annum) Controls Aphids (Myzus persicae Sulzer)
Authors: Mantzoukas Spiridon , Lagogiannis Ioannis
Published: May 2019

Aphids are among the most harmful crop pests, damaging plants by sucking sap or by transmitting pathogenic viruses. Plant infestation by aphids depends on their population growth. Entomopathogenic fungi are essential participants of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, regulating arthropod communities. Many fungal species with a symbiotic–endophytic relation with plants are pathogenic, producing insecticides or insect repellents. The present study investigated the effects of the fungal entomopathogens Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae and Isaria fumosorosea, following their endophytic colonization of the sweet pepper Capsicum annum, on the development of the green peach aphid Myzus persicae. After 21 days, B. bassiana produced 100% aphid mortality, M. anisopliae 90% and I. fumosorosea 83.3%. There were also significant differences in terms of the effect on aphid population in planta and on the survival time of young adults in planta. External mycelium appeared within 96 h after placing aphid cadavers on damp filter paper. PCR confirmed that the mycelium was of B. bassiana, M. anisopliae and I. fumosorosea. DNA sequences collected from this work were matched with existing sequences data in GenBank, using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool. Our results showed that none of the three fungal isolates had an effect in promoting or suppressing the growth of C. annum.
Reviews on Corrugated Diaphragms in Miniature Fiber-Optic Pressure Sensors
Authors: Li Honglin , Deng Hui , Zheng Guangqi , Shan Mingguang , Zhong Zhi , Liu Bin
Published: May 2019

Corrugated diaphragms (CDs) have been widely used in many fields because of their higher pressure sensitivity and wider linear range compared to flat diaphragms (FDs) in the same circumstances. Especially in the application of miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors, the introduction of the corrugated structure gives the sensor high sensitivity, large dynamic range, good linearity, small hysteresis, good stability, and so on. Research on CD-based miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors has gradually attracted more attention in recent years. In this paper, the principles of operation of a miniature fiber-optic pressure sensor are briefly introduced, then the mechanical properties of FD and CD, as well as their influences on the performance of the sensor, are analyzed in detail. The application status of CDs in miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors is reviewed, and our conclusions and the prospects for the application of CDs in miniature fiber-optic pressure sensors are given finally.
Citric Acid Tunes the Formation of Antimicrobial Melanin-Like Nanostructures
Authors: Melone Pietro , Vitiello Giuseppe , Di Napoli Michela , Zanfardino Anna , Caso Maria Federica , Silvestri Brigida , Varcamonti Mario , D’Errico Gerardino , Luciani Giuseppina
Published: May 2019

Nature has provided a valuable source of inspiration for developing high performance multifunctional materials. Particularly, catechol-containing amino acid l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA) has aroused the interest to design hybrid multifunctional materials with superior adhesive ability. DOPA oxidative polymerization mediated by either melanogenic enzymes or an alkaline environment involving catechol intermolecular cross-linking, ultimately leads to melanin oligomers. Recently, relevant studies disclosed the ability of Ti-based nanostructures to tune melanin’s supramolecular structure during its formation, starting from melanogenic precursors, thus improving both antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In this work, we propose a novel biomimetic approach to design hybrid DOPA melanin-like nanostructures through a hydrothermal synthesis opportunely modified by using citric acid to control hydrolysis and condensation reactions of titanium alkoxide precursors. UV-Vis and Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic evidences highlighted the key role of citrate–Ti(IV) and DOPA–Ti(IV) complexes in controlling DOPA polymerization, which specifically occurred during the hydrothermal step, mediating and tuning its conversion to melanin-like oligomers. Trasmission electron microscopy (TEM) images proved the efficacy of the proposed synthesis approach in tuning the formation of nanosized globular nanostructures, with high biocide performances. The obtained findings could provide strategic guidelines to set up biomimetic processes, exploiting the catechol-metal complex to obtain hybrid melanin-like nanosystems with optimized multifunctional behavior.
Lactate Dehydrogenases as Metabolic Links between Tumor and Stroma in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Mishra Deepshikha , Banerjee Debabrata
Published: May 2019

Cancer is a metabolic disease in which abnormally proliferating cancer cells rewire metabolic pathways in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Molecular reprogramming in the TME helps cancer cells to fulfill elevated metabolic demands for bioenergetics and cellular biosynthesis. One of the ways through which cancer cell achieve this is by regulating the expression of metabolic enzymes. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is the primary metabolic enzyme that converts pyruvate to lactate and vice versa. LDH also plays a significant role in regulating nutrient exchange between tumor and stroma. Thus, targeting human lactate dehydrogenase for treating advanced carcinomas may be of benefit. LDHA and LDHB, two isoenzymes of LDH, participate in tumor stroma metabolic interaction and exchange of metabolic fuel and thus could serve as potential anticancer drug targets. This article reviews recent research discussing the roles of lactate dehydrogenase in cancer metabolism. As molecular regulation of LDHA and LDHB in different cancer remains obscure, we also review signaling pathways regulating LDHA and LDHB expression. We highlight on the role of small molecule inhibitors in targeting LDH activity and we emphasize the development of safer and more effective LDH inhibitors. We trust that this review will also generate interest in designing combination therapies based on LDH inhibition, with LDHA being targeted in tumors and LDHB in stromal cells for better treatment outcome.
Expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 in Extramammary Paget Disease: Implications for Immune-Targeted Therapy
Authors: Mauzo Shakuntala H. , Tetzlaff Michael T. , Milton Denái R. , Siroy Alan E. , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Torres-Cabala Carlos A. , Ivan Doina , Curry Jonathan L. , Hudgens Courtney W. , Wargo Jennifer A. , Sahin Aysegul A. , Pettaway Curtis A. , Prieto Victor G. , Aung Phyu P.
Published: May 2019

Extramammary Paget disease (EMPD) is a locally aggressive cutaneous malignancy that usually arises in anogenital or axillary skin. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed cell death receptor (PD-1) and/or its ligand (PD-L1) are approved for the treatment of several types of cancer, and response to these generally correlates with increased PD-L1 expression by tumor cells. The expression of PD-L1 and composition and density of the tumor-associated immune infiltrate in EMPD have been little studied. To determine whether EMPD might be amenable to immune checkpoint blockade, we analyzed the expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 and the composition and density of the tumor-associated immune infiltrate in EMPD and evaluated associations between biomarker expression and clinicopathologic parameters. Twenty-one EMPD tumors were evaluated for tumor cell PD-L1 expression and for relative expression and distribution of CD3, CD8, PD-1, and PD-L1 in the tumor-associated immune infiltrate by using a combination of visual and image analysis (Aperio ImageScope). In addition, PD-L1 expression was assessed in 10 cases of mammary Paget disease (MPD). In EMPD cases, PD-L1 was expressed by tumor cells (3/21; 14%) and the tumor-associated immune infiltrate (15/21; 71%), and PD-1 was expressed by the tumor-associated immune infiltrate in all cases analyzed (18/18). However, PD-L1 expression by EMPD tumor cells did not correlate with the density of CD3-, CD8-, or PD-1-positive cells in the tumor-associated immune infiltrate or other clinicopathologic parameters. Furthermore, the density of CD3, CD8, PD-1, and PD-L1 in the tumor-associated immune infiltrate did not correlate with any clinicopathologic parameters evaluated with the exception that CD3 positive values were significantly higher in patients who were still alive (median, 1310 cells/mm2; range, 543–2115;) than in those who died (median, 611 cells/mm2; range, 481–908; p = 0.049). In all MPD cases, PD-L1 was absent in tumor cells but present in the tumor-associated immune infiltrate, and PD-L1 expression in lymphocytes was lower in patients with HER2/neu-positive than in those with HER2/neu-negative disease (p = 0.07). Our findings raise the possibility of therapeutic targeting of the PD-1/PD-L1 axis in EMPD.
Catalytic Deacidification of Vacuum Gas Oil by ZnO/Al2O3 and Its Modification with Fe2O3
Authors: He Bai , Fu Xue , Lian Xin , Jiang Songshan , Xu Peng , Deng Xinting , He Changxuan , Chen Changguo
Published: May 2019

High acidic vacuum gas oil (VGO) decreases product quality and causes corrosions. To overcome these problems, catalytic esterification was utilized for the deacidification of VGO. A series of Al2O3-supported ZnO catalysts, undoped and doped with Fe2O3, were prepared and characterized. The results showed that both the ZnO/Al2O3 and the ZnO/Al2O3 doped with Fe2O3 had good deacidification effects with glycol for the 4th VGO. The deacidification rate reached 95.1% and 97.6%, respectively, under mild conditions (catalysts 2.5 wt%, glycol dosage 4.0 wt%, 250 °C and 1 h). The naphthenic acids were transferred into ester, which was proved by the Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).Reusability of the catalyst for the esterification reaction was also studied. It was found that the deacidification rate was still over 90% after six reruns.
A Phase 2a, Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group, Placebo-Controlled Trial of IBD98-M Delayed-Release Capsules to Induce Remission in Patients with Active and Mild to Moderate Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Fiorino Gionata , Sturniolo Giacomo Carlo , Bossa Fabrizio , Cassinotti Andrea , Di Sabatino Antonio , Giuffrida Paolo , Danese Silvio
Published: May 2019

IBD98-M is a delayed-release formulation of mesalamine (mesalazine) and SH with a potential therapeutic role in ulcerative colitis (UC). A total of 51 patients with a modified Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity Index (UCDAI) score of ≥4 and ≤10, and a modified UCDAI endoscopy subscore ≥1 were randomized for 6 weeks of double-blind treatment with IBD98 0.8 g/day or IBD 1.2 g/day or placebo. The efficacy and safety of IBD98-M in mild to moderate active UC were primarily evaluated. At week 6, 1 (5.9%), 2 (12.5%), and 2 (11.1%) patients receiving IBD98-M 0.8 g, IBD98-M 1.2 g, and placebo, respectively, (p > 0.999) achieved clinical remission. Higher clinical response was seen in IBD98-M 1.2 g (31.3%) versus placebo (16.7%) and endoscopic improvement in IBD98-M 0.8 g (29.4%) versus placebo (22.2%) was seen. Fecal calprotectin levels were reduced in IBD98-M groups versus placebo (p > 0.05). IBD98-M patients achieved significant improvement in physical health summary score component of the SF-36 (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03 respectively) compared to placebo. IBD98-M did not meet the primary end point but had higher clinical response (1.2 g/day) and endoscopic improvement (0.8 g/day) compared to placebo. The safety result shown that IBD98-M treatment was safe and well tolerated in this patient population. No new safety signals or unexpected safety findings were observed during the study. Further trials with different stratification and longer follow-up may be needed to evaluate the efficacy.
LDH Post-Treatment of Flash PEO Coatings
Authors: del Olmo Rubén , Mohedano Marta , Mingo Beatriz , Arrabal Raúl , Matykina Endzhe
Published: May 2019

This work investigates environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic and carcinogenic Cr (VI)-based surface treatments for aluminium alloys. It is focused on multifunctional thin or flash plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO)-layered double hydroxides (LDH) coatings. Three PEO coatings developed under a current-controlled mode based on aluminate, silicate and phosphate were selected from 31 processes (with different combinations of electrolytes, electrical conditions and time) according to corrosive behavior and energy consumption. In situ Zn-Al LDH was optimized in terms of chemical composition and exposure time on the bulk material, then applied to the selected PEO coatings. The structure, morphology and composition of PEO coatings with and without Zn-Al-LDH were characterized using XRD, SEM and EDS. Thicker and more porous PEO coatings revealed higher amounts of LDH flakes on their surfaces. The corrosive behavior of the coatings was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The corrosion resistance was enhanced considerably after the PEO coatings formation in comparison with bulk material. Corrosion resistance was not affected after the LDH treatment, which can be considered as a first step in achieving active protection systems by posterior incorporation of green corrosion inhibitors.
Feasibility of Direct Sputum Molecular Testing for Drug Resistance as Part of Tuberculosis Clinical Trials Eligibility Screening
Authors: Alipanah Narges , Shete Priya B. , Nguyen Hanh , Nguyen Nhung Viet , Luu Lien , Pham Thuong , Nguyen Hung , Nguyen Phuong , Tran Minh Chi , Pham Nam , Phan Ha , Phillips Patrick P.J. , Cattamanchi Adithya , Nahid Payam
Published: May 2019

A rapid diagnosis of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is critical for early initiation of effective therapy. Molecular testing with line probe assays (MTBDRplus and MTBDRsl) on culture isolates has been available for some time and significantly reduces the time to diagnosis of drug resistance. However, routine use of this test directly on sputum is less common. As part of enrollment screening procedures for tuberculosis clinical trials conducted in Hanoi, Vietnam, we evaluated the feasibility and performance of line probe assay (LPA) testing directly on sputum samples from 315 participants with no prior history of TB treatment. Test performance characteristics for the detection of rifampin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH) drug resistance as compared to culture-based drug susceptibility testing (DST) reference standard were calculated. LPA demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of drug resistance. Scaling up molecular testing on sputum as part of time-sensitive clinical trial screening procedures in high TB burden settings is feasible and will reduce both time to initiation of appropriate therapy and the risk of late exclusions due to microbiologic ineligibility.
Machine Learning Prediction Approach to Enhance Congestion Control in 5G IoT Environment
Authors: Najm Ihab Ahmed , Hamoud Alaa Khalaf , Lloret Jaime , Bosch Ignacio
Published: May 2019

The 5G network is a next-generation wireless form of communication and the latest mobile technology. In practice, 5G utilizes the Internet of Things (IoT) to work in high-traffic networks with multiple nodes/sensors in an attempt to transmit their packets to a destination simultaneously, which is a characteristic of IoT applications. Due to this, 5G offers vast bandwidth, low delay, and extremely high data transfer speed. Thus, 5G presents opportunities and motivations for utilizing next-generation protocols, especially the stream control transmission protocol (SCTP). However, the congestion control mechanisms of the conventional SCTP negatively influence overall performance. Moreover, existing mechanisms contribute to reduce 5G and IoT performance. Thus, a new machine learning model based on a decision tree (DT) algorithm is proposed in this study to predict optimal enhancement of congestion control in the wireless sensors of 5G IoT networks. The model was implemented on a training dataset to determine the optimal parametric setting in a 5G environment. The dataset was used to train the machine learning model and enable the prediction of optimal alternatives that can enhance the performance of the congestion control approach. The DT approach can be used for other functions, especially prediction and classification. DT algorithms provide graphs that can be used by any user to understand the prediction approach. The DT C4.5 provided promising results, with more than 92% precision and recall.
A Fast Algorithm for Multi-Class Learning from Label Proportions
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liu Jiabin , Wang Bo , Qi Zhiquan , Shi Yong
Published: May 2019

Learning from label proportions (LLP) is a new kind of learning problem which has attracted wide interest in machine learning. Different from the well-known supervised learning, the training data of LLP is in the form of bags and only the proportion of each class in each bag is available. Actually, many modern applications can be successfully abstracted to this problem such as modeling voting behaviors and spam filtering. However, time-consuming training is still a challenge for LLP, which becomes a bottleneck especially when addressing large bags and bag sizes. In this paper, we propose a fast algorithm called multi-class learning from label proportions by extreme learning machine (LLP-ELM), which takes advantage of an extreme learning machine with fast learning speed to solve multi-class learning from label proportions. Firstly, we reshape the hidden layer output matrix and the training data target matrix of an extreme learning machine to adapt to the proportion information instead of the real labels. Secondly, a robust loss function with a regularization term is formulated and two efficient solutions are provided to different cases. Finally, various experiments demonstrate the significant speed-up of the proposed model with better accuracies on different datasets compared with several state-of-the-art methods.
iLife: Safely Extending Lifetime for Memory-Oriented SSD
Authors: Xu Erci , Li Shanshan
Published: May 2019

Currently, the roles of SSDs have been diversified significantly. Apart for storage purposes, users can also utilize flash drives to cache hot data or buffering incoming writes to achieve high throughput. In this case, the endurance study of Solid State Drives (SSDs) has become an increasingly important topic as users rely on such research to reliably avoid early retirement of their old drives in laptops or machines in data centers. However, current manufacturers adopt Program/Erase (P/E) cycle-based life indicators to estimate the remaining lifetime of an SSD, which is often too conservative due to longtime data retention concerns. In this paper, we begin by analyzing the inaccuracy and other potential issues of existing P/E cycle-based life indicators for SSDs under memory-oriented workloads. To construct an accurate life indicator, we conduct a more extensive and sophisticated experiment to wear out eight SSDs from four different vendors. By monitoring the device status extracted from the standard S.M.A.R.T.attributes in the experiment, we make eleven interesting findings on the relationship between the device lifetime and different types of errors observed. Based on our unique findings, we propose iLife, a pattern-based life indicator for SSDs under memory-oriented workloads. Our evaluation of iLife on a different set of six SSDs shows that iLife is a more accurate life indicator, with an average of 14.2% higher accuracy on lifetime estimation and up to 21.2% safe lifetime extension compared to existing P/E cycle-based indicators.
Nanocrystalline and Silicon Steel Medium-Frequency Transformers Applied to DC-DC Converters: Analysis and Experimental Comparison
Authors: Ruiz-Robles Dante , Ortíz-Marín Jorge , Venegas-Rebollar Vicente , L. Moreno-Goytia Edgar , Granados-Lieberman David , R. Rodríguez-Rodriguez Juan
Published: May 2019

High performance, highly efficient DC-DC converters play a key role in improving the penetration of renewable energy sources in the context of smart grids in applications such as solid-state transformers, built-in power drives in electric vehicles and interfacing photovoltaic and wind-power systems. Advanced medium-frequency transformers (MFTs) are fundamental to enhance DC-DC converters and determining its behavior, therefore MFT design procedures have become increasingly important in this context. This paper investigates which type of core material, between nanocrystalline and silicon steel, has the best properties for designing MFTs for distinct applications. Unlike to other proposals, in this work, two 1 kVA-120 V/240 V-1 kHz lab MFT prototypes, with a different type of core material, are developed for the purpose of comparing its physical characteristics, behavior, and performance under real-life conditions. A final section, the experimental results show that the nanocrystalline MFT has greater power density and efficiency. The results of this work introduce nanocrystalline MFTs as an option in a wider range of applications in niches in which other materials are currently used.
How Do Stakeholders Perceive Barriers to Large-Scale Wind Power Diffusion? A Q-Method Case Study from Ceará State, Brazil
Authors: Frate Cláudio Albuquerque , Brannstrom Christian
Published: May 2019

High penetration of renewable power requires technical, organizational, and political changes. We use Q-method, a qualitative–quantitative technique, to identify and analyze views held by key actors on challenges for large-scale diffusion of wind power in Ceará State, Brazil, an early leader in wind power with 2.05 GW installed capacity. Four quantitatively determined social perspectives were identified with regard to views on challenges for wind power expansion: (1) failing because of the grid; (2) environmental challenges; (3) planning for wind, and (4) participating in wind. Each social perspective emphasizes a different array of barriers, such as cost of new transmission lines, transformation of a hydro-thermal mental model, predictive capacity for wind energy, and the need for participatory forum. Understanding the subjective views of stakeholders is a key first step in eventually reducing these barriers to renewable power penetration through diverse policy interventions.
Applicability of a New Sulfonated Pentablock Copolymer Membrane and Modified Gas Diffusion Layers for Low-Cost Water Splitting Processes
Authors: Filice S. , Urzì G. , Milazzo R. G. , Privitera S. M. S. , Lombardo S. A. , Compagnini G. , Scalese S.
Published: May 2019

The aim of this work is to evaluate the possible use of Nexar™ polymer, a sulfonated pentablock copolymer (s-PBC), whose structure is formed by tert-butyl styrene, hydrogenated isoprene, sulfonated styrene, hydrogenated isoprene, and tert-butyl styrene (tBS-HI-SS-HI-tBS), as a more economical and efficient alternative to Nafion® membrane for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis cells. Furthermore, we have studied a new methodology for modification of gas diffusion layers (GDL) by depositing Pt and TiO2 nanoparticles at the cathode and anode side, respectively, and a protective polymeric layer on their surface, allowing the improvement of the contact with the membrane. Morphological, structural, and electrical characterization were performed on the Nexar™ membrane and on the modified GDLs. The use of modified GDLs positively affects the efficiency of the water electrolysis process. Furthermore, Nexar™ showed higher water uptake and conductivity with respect to Nafion®, resulting in an increased amount of current generated during water electrolysis. In conclusion, we show that Nexar™ is an efficient and cheaper alternative to Nafion® as the proton exchange membrane in water splitting applications and we suggest a possible methodology for improving GDLs’ properties. These results meet the urgent need for low-cost materials and processes for hydrogen production.
A Modified Step-Up DC-DC Flyback Converter with Active Snubber for Improved Efficiency
Authors: Pesce Cristian , Riedemann Javier , Pena Ruben , Jara Werner , Maury Camilo , Villalobos Rodrigo
Published: May 2019

The research on DC-DC power converters has been a matter of interest for years since this type of converter can be used in a wide range of applications. The main research is focused on increasing the converter voltage gain while obtaining a good efficiency and reliability. Among the different DC-DC converters, the flyback topology is well-known and widely used. In this paper, a novel high efficiency modified step-up DC-DC flyback converter is presented. The converter is based on a N-stages flyback converter with parallel connected inputs and series-connected outputs. The use of a single main diode and output capacitor reduces the number of passive elements and allows for a more economical implementation compared with interleaved flyback topologies. High efficiency is obtained by including an active snubber circuit, which returns the energy stored in the leakage inductance of the flyback transformers back to the input power supply. A 4.7 kW laboratory prototype is implemented considering four flyback stages with an input voltage of 96 V and an output voltage of 590 V, obtaining an efficiency of 95%. The converter operates in discontinuous current mode then facilitating the output voltage controller design. Experimental results are presented and discussed.
A New Model to Simulate Local Market Power in a Multi-Area Electricity Market: Application to the European Case
Authors: Orgaz Alberto , Bello Antonio , Reneses Javier
Published: May 2019

The work presented in this article proposes an original method that models the medium-term market equilibrium under imperfect competition circumstances in multi-area electricity systems. It provides a system analysis considering multiple market splitting possibilities, where local market power may appear according to the status of the interconnections. As a result of new policies and regulations, power systems are increasingly integrating the existing electricity markets in unified frameworks. The integration of electricity markets poses highly challenging tasks due to the uncertainty that comes from the agents’ strategic behaviors which depend on multiple factors, for instance, the state of the interconnections. When it comes to modeling these effects, the purpose is to identify each strategy by using conjectured-price responses that depend on the different states of the system. Consequently, the problem becomes highly combinatorial, which heightens its size as well as its complexity. Therefore, the purpose of this work’s methodology is the reduction of the possible network configurations so as to ensure a computational tractability in the problem. In order to validate this methodology, it has been put to the test in a realistic and full-scale two-year operation planning model of the European electricity market that consists of a group of nine countries.