bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depressive-Like Behaviors Induced by Chronic Social Defeat Stress Are Associated With HDAC7 Reduction in the Nucleus Accumbens
Authors: Qian Weijun , Yu Chao , Wang Shuai , Niu Aijun , Shi Guangyan , Cheng Yuancui , Xu Ning , Jin Qiangqiang , Jing Xu
Published: January 2021

Persistent symptoms of depression indicate the adaptive involvement of stable molecules in the brain that may be manifested at the level of chromatin remodeling, such as histone acetylation. Former studies have identified alterations in histone acetylation and deacetylation in several animal models about depression. However, the specific histone deacetylases related with depression are needed to be explored. Here, social avoidance behaviors, anxiety-, and depression-like behaviors were all found in mice suffered from chronic social defeat stress. Moreover, we also discovered that the amount of the class II histone deacetylase, HDAC7 rather than HDAC2, was significantly decreased in the nucleus accumbens of defeated mice, which suggested that HDAC7 might be a crucial histone deacetylase in a chronic social defeat stress model. Our data showed that the depressive-like behaviors induced by chronic social defeat stress were associated with HDAC7 reduction in nucleus accumbens. HDAC7 might be a promising therapeutic target for depression.
Associations Between Change in Outside Time Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Public Health Restrictions and Mental Health: Brief Research Report
Authors: Cindrich Sydney L. , Lansing Jeni E. , Brower Cassandra S. , McDowell Cillian P. , Herring Matthew P. , Meyer Jacob D.
Published: January 2021

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and associated pandemic has resulted in systemic changes to much of life, affecting both physical and mental health. Time spent outside is associated with positive mental health; however, opportunities to be outside were likely affected by the COVID-19 public health restrictions that encouraged people not to leave their homes unless it was required. This study investigated the impact of acute COVID-19 public health restrictions on outside time in April 2020, and quantified the association between outside time and both stress and positive mental health, using secondary analyses of cross-sectional data from the COVID and Well-being Study. Participants (n = 3,291) reported demographics, health behaviors, amount of time they spent outside pre/post COVID-19 public health restrictions (categorized as increased, maintained, or decreased), current stress (Perceived Stress Scale-4), and positive mental health (Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale). Outside time was lower following COVID-19 restrictions (p < 0.001; Cohen's d = −0.19). Participants who increased or maintained outside time following COVID-19 restrictions reported lower stress (p < 0.001, 5.93 [5.74–6.12], Hedges' g = −0.18; p < 0.001, mean = 5.85 [5.67–6.02], Hedges' g = −0.21; respectively) and higher positive mental health (p < 0.001, 24.49 [24.20–24.77], Hedges' g = 0.21; p < 0.001, 24.78 [24.52–25.03], Hedges' g = 0.28) compared to those who decreased outside time. These findings indicate that there are likely to be negative stress and mental health implications if strategies are not implemented to encourage and maintain safe time outside during large-scale workplace and societal changes (e.g., during a pandemic).
Case Report: Surgical Closure of Chronic Soft Tissue Defects Using Extracellular Matrix Graft Augmented Tissue Flaps
Authors: Desvigne Micheal N. , Bauer Krista , Holifield Kurt , Day Kari , Gilmore Denise , Wardman Ashley L.
Published: January 2021

Chronic soft tissue defects are notoriously difficult to heal. Surgical reconstruction of chronic defects using tissue flaps is a routine approach for closure of challenging chronic defects. Due to the poor tissue quality of chronic defects and associated inflammation, infection and impaired blood supply the success of flap closure is marred by reported complication rates of 25–58%. Extracellular matrix (ECM)-based graft materials are commonly used for resolving chronic wounds and in plastic and reconstructive procedures to create a scaffold for tissue regeneration. We hypothesized combination use of ECM grafts with tissue flaps in a single-stage surgical procedure would reduce complications and improve outcomes in the closure of chronic soft tissue defects. We report a case series (n = 9) of chronic soft tissue defect reconstruction using this modified procedure of ECM graft augmented flap closure. Defects included pressure injuries and surgical dehiscence and ranged in wound age from 5 months to 7 years. Successful uncomplicated healing was achieved in six defects. Post-operative complications (dehiscence) occurred in two defects, however, these healed via secondary intention without additional surgical intervention. All healed defects exhibited acceptable cosmesis and “normal” function, with 100% patient satisfaction. Augmentation of tissue flaps with ECM graft materials in this modified single-stage procedure may improve outcomes and minimize typical complications encountered in flap closure of chronic defects attributed to inflammation, infection, hypoperfusion, and dead space.
Age Dependence of Antimicrobial Resistance Among Fecal Bacteria in Animals: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gaire Tara N. , Scott Harvey Morgan , Sellers Laura , Nagaraja T. G. , Volkova Victoriya V.
Published: January 2021

Introduction: A phenomenon of decreasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among fecal bacteria as food animals age has been noted in multiple field studies. We conducted a scoping review to summarize the extent, range, and nature of research activity and the data for the following question: “does AMR among enteric/fecal bacteria predictably shift as animals get older?”.

Methods: This review followed a scoping review methodology framework. Pertinent literature published up until November 2018 for all animals (except humans) was retrieved using keyword searches in two online databases, namely, PubMed® and the Web of Science™ Core Collection, without filtering publication date, geographic location, or language. Data were extracted from the included studies, summarized, and plotted. Study quality was also assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines for all included papers.

Results: The publications with detailed relevant data (n = 62) in food animals, poultry, and dogs were identified. These included longitudinal studies (n = 32), cross-sectional studies of different age groups within one food animal production system or small-animal catchment area (n = 16), and experimental or diet trials (n = 14). A decline in host-level prevalence and/or within-host abundance of AMR among fecal bacteria in production beef, dairy cattle, and swine was reported in nearly two-thirds (65%) of the identified studies in different geographic locations from the 1970's to 2018. Mixed results, with AMR abundance among fecal bacteria either increasing or decreasing with age, have been reported in poultry (broiler chicken, layer, and grow-out turkey) and dogs.

Conclusions: Quantitative synthesis of the data suggests that the age-dependent AMR phenomenon in cattle and swine is observed irrespective of geographic location and specific production practices. It is unclear whether the phenomenon predates or is related to antimicrobial drug use. However, almost 50% of the identified studies predate recent changes in antimicrobial drug use policy and regulations in food animals in the United States and elsewhere.
Influence of a Polyherbal Mixture in Dairy Calves: Growth Performance and Gene Expression
Authors: Díaz Galván Cesar , Méndez Olvera Estela Teresita , Martínez Gómez Daniel , Gloria Trujillo Adrián , Hernández García Pedro Abel , Espinosa Ayala Enrique , Palacios Martínez Monika , Lara Bueno Alejandro , Mendoza Martínez Germán David , Velázquez Cruz Lucero Abigail
Published: January 2021

A polyherbal feed mixture containing (Achyrantes aspera, Trachyspermum ammi, Citrullus colocynthis, Andrographis paniculata, and Azadirachta indica) was evaluated in growing calves through blood chemistry, blood biometry, and gene expression during the pre-ruminant to weaning period. Forty Holstein calves (initial BW 45.6 ± 3.2 kg; 22.8 ± 0.9 days post birth) from a dairy farm were randomly assigned to the following treatments: 0, 3, 4, and 5 g/d of a polyherbal mixture, dosed in colloid gels with gelatin. Calves were housed in individual outdoor boxes with ad libitum access to a 21.5% CP calf starter and water and fed individually with a mixture of milk and a non-medicated milk replacer (22% CP). Blood samples were collected on day 59 for blood chemistry, blood biometry, and gene expression analysis in leukocyte through microarray assays. Immunoglobulins were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The animals treated with the polyherbal mixture showed a quadratic effect on final body weight, daily weight gain, final hip height, and final thoracic girth. The best performance results were obtained with a treatment dose of 4 g/d. The serum IgG increased linearly with the treatment doses. Gene set enrichment analysis of upregulated genes revealed that the three biological processes with higher fold change were tight junction, mucin type O-Glycan biosynthesis, and intestinal immune network for IgA production. Also, these upregulated genes influenced arachidonic acid metabolism, and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis. Gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that the pathways enriched were PELP1 estrogen receptor interacting protein pathways, nuclear receptors in lipid metabolism and toxicity, tight junction, ECM-receptor interaction, thyroid hormone signaling pathways, vascular smooth muscle contraction, ribosome function, glutamatergic synapse pathway, focal adhesion, Hippo, calcium, and MAPK signaling pathways.
Plant and Animal-Type Feedstuff Shape the Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Processes of the Chinese Mitten Crab Eriocheir sinensis
Authors: Chen Xiaowen , Lu Deyin , Li Zhihua , Yue Wucheng , Wang Jun , Jiang Xiaoyan , Han Hua , Wang Chenghui
Published: January 2021

In animals, growth and development are strongly correlated with the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles. In this study, gut microbiome communities, metabolic profiles, and growth performance of Eriocheir sinensis under three dietary feed types based on waterweed plants only, freshwater snails only, and waterweed plants combined with freshwater snails were studied by using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results indicated that different feed types dramatically affected the growth performances of E. sinensis by altering the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles. Aquatic plants, such as waterweeds, played essential roles in shaping gut microbiome communities, and the optimal Bacteroides-to-Firmicutes ratio might strongly promote growth performance. Waterweed plants also helped decrease maleficent Proteobacteria caused by excess animal-type feedstuff, such as freshwater snails, and might have positive roles in antibacterial functions in gut. A diet based on waterweeds only resulted in lipid metabolism disorders, which significantly retarded the growth of E. sinensis. In summary, E. sinensis cultured with a diet of waterweeds and freshwater snails showed superior growth performance due to their healthy gut microbiota and metabolic homeostasis. Our findings unveiled the roles of aquatic plants and animal-type food such as freshwater snail in shaping the gut microbiota and metabolic processes and provided guidance for the aquaculture of E. sinensis in future.
Plasma Concentration of Advanced Glycation End-Products From Wild Canids and Domestic Dogs Does Not Change With Age or Across Body Masses
Authors: Jimenez Ana Gabriela
Published: January 2021

Dogs provide a physiological paradox: In domestic dogs, small breeds live longer lives than large breed dogs. Comparatively, a wild canid can be a similar size than many large breed dogs and outlive their domestic cousin. We have previously shown that oxidative stress patterns between domestic and wild canids differ, so that wild canids invest in a robust antioxidant system across their lives; whereas domestic dogs tend to accumulate lipid damage with age. There is a close association between oxidative stress and the production of a carbohydrate based-damage, Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). AGEs can bind to their receptor (RAGE), which can lead to increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and decreases in antioxidant capacity. Here, I used plasma from wild and domestic canids to address whether blood plasma AGE-BSA concentration associated with body mass and age in domestic dogs; And whether AGE-BSA concentration patterns in blood plasma from wild canids are similar to those found in domestic dogs. I found no correlation between circulating AGE-BSA concentration and body size or age in either domestic dogs and wild canids. These data suggest that AGEs formation may be a conserved trait across the evolution of domesticated dogs from wild ancestors, in opposition to oxidative stress patterns between these two groups. And, that, in domestic dogs, lipid metabolism, rather than carbohydrate metabolism, may be upregulated to yield the previously found differences in circulating lipid damage across lifespan and body sizes.
Network Creation Games with Traceroute-Based Strategies
Authors: Bilò Davide , Gualà Luciano , Leucci Stefano , Proietti Guido
Published: January 2021

Network creation games have been extensively used as mathematical models to capture the key aspects of the decentralized process that leads to the formation of interconnected communication networks by selfish agents. In these games, each user of the network is identified by a node and selects which link to activate by strategically balancing his/her building cost with his/her usage cost (which is a function of the distances towards the other player in the network to be built). In these games, a widespread assumption is that players have a common and complete information about the evolving network topology. This is only realistic for small-scale networks as, when the network size grows, it quickly becomes impractical for the single users to gather such a global and fine-grained knowledge of the network in which they are embedded. In this work, we weaken this assumption, by only allowing players to have a partial view of the network. To this aim, we borrow three popular traceroute-based knowledge models used in network discovery: (i) distance vector, (ii) shortest-path tree view, and (iii) layered view. We settle many of the classical game theoretic questions in all of the above models. More precisely, we introduce a suitable (and unifying) equilibrium concept which we then use to study the convergence of improving and best response dynamics, the computational complexity of computing a best response, and to provide matching upper and lower bounds to the price of anarchy.
Consensus for the General Use of Equine Water Treadmills for Healthy Horses
Authors: Nankervis Kathryn , Tranquille Carolyne , McCrae Persephone , York Jessica , Lashley Morgan , Baumann Matthias , King Melissa , Sykes Erin , Lambourn Jessica , Miskimmin Kerry-Anne , Allen Donna , van Mol Evelyne , Brooks Shelley , Willingham Tonya , Lacey Sam , Hardy Vanessa , Ellis Julie , Murray Rachel
Published: January 2021

Water treadmill exercise has become popular in recent years for the training and rehabilitation of equine athletes. In 2019, an equine hydrotherapy working group was formed to establish what was commonly considered to be best practice in the use of the modality. This article describes the process by which general guidelines for the application of water treadmill exercise in training and rehabilitation programmes were produced by the working group. The guidelines describe the consensus reached to date on (1) the potential benefits of water treadmill exercise, (2) general good practice in water treadmill exercise, (3) introduction of horses to the exercise, (4) factors influencing selection of belt speed, water depth and duration of exercise, and (5) monitoring movement on the water treadmill. The long-term goal is to reach a consensus on the optimal use of the modality within a training or rehabilitation programme. Collaboration between clinicians, researchers and experienced users is needed to develop research programmes and further guidelines regarding the most appropriate application of the modality for specific veterinary conditions.
Dry Matter Intake and In Vivo Digestibility of Grass-Only and Grass-White Clover in Individually Housed Sheep in Spring, Summer and Autumn
Authors: Hurley MaryAnne , Lewis Eva , Beecher Marion , Garry Brian , Fleming Christina , Boland Tommy , Hennessy Deirdre
Published: January 2021

Intake and digestibility are key drivers of animal production from grazed forage. The objective of this study was to compare the in vivo digestibility and voluntary dry matter (DM) intake of grass-only and grass-white clover (grass-clover) forage in individually housed sheep. This study was a Latin square design, repeated on three occasions in 2017: Spring (27 March–29 April), summer (19 June–22 July) and autumn (4 September–29 September). Grass-clover and grass-only swards were harvested daily and offered ad libitum to 6 individually housed wether sheep per treatment per period. Digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) were determined using the total faecal collection method. Dry matter intake was not significantly different between treatments. White clover inclusion increased forage crude protein concentration in autumn (p < 0.001) and reduced NDF concentration in the offered forage (p < 0.001), increasing nitrogen intake per sheep in autumn (p < 0.001) and decreasing NDF intake per sheep in autumn (p < 0.001). Grass-clover swards had a significantly greater OM and DM digestibility compared to grass-only swards (p < 0.05). This could potentially result in increased animal production from grass-clover swards compared to grass-only swards.
Energy Balance Indicators during the Transition Period and Early Lactation of Purebred Holstein and Simmental Cows and Their Crosses
Authors: Knob Deise Aline , Thaler Neto André , Schweizer Helen , Weigand Anna C. , Kappes Roberto , Scholz Armin M.
Published: January 2021

Crossbreeding in dairy cattle has been used to improve functional traits, milk composition, and efficiency of Holstein herds. The objective of the study was to compare indicators of the metabolic energy balance, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose, body condition score (BCS) back fat thickness (BFT), as well as milk yield and milk composition of Holstein and Simmental cows, and their crosses from the prepartum period until the 100th day of lactation at the Livestock Center of the Ludwig Maximilians University (Munich, Germany). In total, 164 cows formed five genetic groups according to their theoretic proportion of Holstein and Simmental genes as follows: Holstein (100% Holstein; n = 9), R1-Hol (51–99% Holstein; n = 30), first generation (F1) crossbreds (50% Holstein, 50% Simmental; n = 17), R1-Sim (1–49% Holstein; n = 81) and Simmental (100% Simmental; n = 27). The study took place between April 2018 and August 2019. BCS, BFT blood parameters, such as BHBA, glucose, and NEFA were recorded weekly. A mixed model analysis with fixed effects breed, week (relative to calving), the interaction of breed and week, parity, calving year, calving season, milking season, and the repeated measure effect of cow was used. BCS increased with the Simmental proportion. All genetic groups lost BCS and BFT after calving. Simmental cows showed lower NEFA values. BHBA and glucose did not differ among genetic groups, but they differed depending on the week relative to calving. Simmental and R1-Sim cows showed a smaller effect than the other genetic groups regarding changes in body weight, BCS, or back fat thickness after a period of a negative energy balance after calving. There was no significant difference for milk yield among genetic groups, although Simmental cows showed a lower milk yield after the third week after calving. Generally, Simmental and R1-Simmental cows seemed to deal better with a negative energy balance after calving than purebred Holstein and the other crossbred lines. Based on a positive heterosis effect of 10.06% for energy corrected milk (ECM), the F1, however, was the most efficient crossbred line.
How to Evaluate Non-Growing Cells—Current Strategies for Determining Antimicrobial Resistance of VBNC Bacteria
Authors: Fleischmann Susanne , Robben Christian , Alter Thomas , Rossmanith Peter , Mester Patrick
Published: January 2021

Thanks to the achievements in sanitation, hygiene practices, and antibiotics, we have considerably improved in our ongoing battle against pathogenic bacteria. However, with our increasing knowledge about the complex bacterial lifestyles and cycles and their plethora of defense mechanisms, it is clear that the fight is far from over. One of these resistance mechanisms that has received increasing attention is the ability to enter a dormancy state termed viable but non-culturable (VBNC). Bacteria that enter the VBNC state, either through unfavorable environmental conditions or through potentially lethal stress, lose their ability to grow on standard enrichment media, but show a drastically increased tolerance against antimicrobials including antibiotics. The inability to utilize traditional culture-based methods represents a considerable experimental hurdle to investigate their increased antimicrobial resistance and impedes the development and evaluation of effective treatments or interventions against bacteria in the VBNC state. Although experimental approaches were developed to detect and quantify VBNCs, only a few have been utilized for antimicrobial resistance screening and this review aims to provide an overview of possible methodological approaches.
Role of Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Implications for Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Arroyave-Ospina Johanna C. , Wu Zongmei , Geng Yana , Moshage Han
Published: January 2021

Oxidative stress (OxS) is considered a major factor in the pathophysiology of inflammatory chronic liver diseases, including non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD). Chronic impairment of lipid metabolism is closely related to alterations of the oxidant/antioxidant balance, which affect metabolism-related organelles, leading to cellular lipotoxicity, lipid peroxidation, chronic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Increased OxS also triggers hepatocytes stress pathways, leading to inflammation and fibrogenesis, contributing to the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The antioxidant response, regulated by the Nrf2/ARE pathway, is a key component in this process and counteracts oxidative stress-induced damage, contributing to the restoration of normal lipid metabolism. Therefore, modulation of the antioxidant response emerges as an interesting target to prevent NAFLD development and progression. This review highlights the link between disturbed lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in the context of NAFLD. In addition, emerging potential therapies based on antioxidant effects and their likely molecular targets are discussed.
Activation of NRF2 and ATF4 Signaling by the Pro-Glutathione Molecule I-152, a Co-Drug of N-Acetyl-Cysteine and Cysteamine
Authors: Crinelli Rita , Zara Carolina , Galluzzi Luca , Buffi Gloria , Ceccarini Chiara , Smietana Michael , Mari Michele , Magnani Mauro , Fraternale Alessandra
Published: January 2021

I-152 combines two pro-glutathione (GSH) molecules, namely N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and cysteamine (MEA), to improve their potency. The co-drug efficiently increases/replenishes GSH levels in vitro and in vivo; little is known about its mechanism of action. Here we demonstrate that I-152 not only supplies GSH precursors, but also activates the antioxidant kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1/nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (KEAP1/NRF2) pathway. The mechanism involves disulfide bond formation between KEAP1 cysteine residues, NRF2 stabilization and enhanced expression of the γ-glutamil cysteine ligase regulatory subunit. Accordingly, a significant increase in GSH levels, not reproduced by treatment with NAC or MEA alone, was found. Compared to its parent compounds, I-152 delivered NAC more efficiently within cells and displayed increased reactivity to KEAP1 compared to MEA. While at all the concentrations tested, I-152 activated the NRF2 pathway; high doses caused co-activation of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) and ATF4-dependent gene expression through a mechanism involving Atf4 transcriptional activation rather than preferential mRNA translation. In this case, GSH levels tended to decrease over time, and a reduction in cell proliferation/survival was observed, highlighting that there is a concentration threshold which determines the transition from advantageous to adverse effects. This body of evidence provides a molecular framework for the pro-GSH activity and dose-dependent effects of I-152 and shows how synergism and cross reactivity between different thiol species could be exploited to develop more potent drugs.
Gastro-Protective Effects of Albizia anthelmintica Leaf Extract on Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Wistar Rats: In Silico and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Nabil Mohamed , El Raey Mohamed A. , Abdo Walied , Abdelfattah Mohamed A. O. , El-Shazly Assem M. , Sobeh Mansour , Mahmoud Mona F.
Published: January 2021

We have previously reported that the leaf extract of Albizia anthelmintica exhibited substantial antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties in vivo. We also comprehensively characterized the active phytoconstituents and found several flavonoids and galloyl glucosides derivatives. In the current work, we explored the gastroprotective effects of the leaf extract in an indomethacin-induced ulcer model and the mechanisms involved. The rats being pretreated with the tested extract (100 and 200 mg kg−1) significantly prevented gastric lesions by 87.4% and 92.3%, respectively, and they had no structural derangements in the gastric mucosa. The extract significantly reduced the elevated levels of IKκB, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, and lipid peroxidation; increased the reduced level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity; and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the indomethacin-induced ulcer model. The protective activities of the extract were similar in most aspects to those exerted by the known anti-ulcer drug famotidine. These activities might be attributed to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, and the reduction of iNOS levels. In conclusion, Albizia anthelmintica is a potential candidate for management of gastric ulcers with antioxidant properties.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Applied Sciences in 2020
Authors:   Applied Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Applied Sciences maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
Building Urban Public Traffic Dynamic Network Based on CPSS: An Integrated Approach of Big Data and AI
Authors: Xiong Gang , Li Zhishuai , Wu Huaiyu , Chen Shichao , Dong Xisong , Zhu Fenghua , Lv Yisheng
Published: January 2021

The extensive proliferation of urban transit cards and smartphones has witnessed the feasibility of the collection of citywide travel behaviors and the estimation of traffic status in real-time. In this paper, an urban public traffic dynamic network based on the cyber-physical-social system (CPSS-UPTDN) is proposed as a universal framework for advanced public transportation systems, which can optimize the urban public transportation based on big data and AI methods. Firstly, we introduce three modules and two loops which composes of the novel framework. Then, the key technologies in CPSS-UPTDN are studied, especially collecting and analyzing traffic information by big data and AI methods, and a particular implementation of CPSS-UPTDN is discussed, namely the artificial system, computational experiments, and parallel execution (ACP) method. Finally, a case study is performed. The data sources include both traffic congestion data from physical space and cellular data from social space, which can improve the prediction performance for traffic status. Furthermore, the service quality of urban public transportation can be promoted by optimizing the bus dispatching based on the parallel execution in our framework.
Deep Data Assimilation: Integrating Deep Learning with Data Assimilation
Authors: Arcucci Rossella , Zhu Jiangcheng , Hu Shuang , Guo Yi-Ke
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we propose Deep Data Assimilation (DDA), an integration of Data Assimilation (DA) with Machine Learning (ML). DA is the Bayesian approximation of the true state of some physical system at a given time by combining time-distributed observations with a dynamic model in an optimal way. We use a ML model in order to learn the assimilation process. In particular, a recurrent neural network, trained with the state of the dynamical system and the results of the DA process, is applied for this purpose. At each iteration, we learn a function that accumulates the misfit between the results of the forecasting model and the results of the DA. Subsequently, we compose this function with the dynamic model. This resulting composition is a dynamic model that includes the features of the DA process and that can be used for future prediction without the necessity of the DA. In fact, we prove that the DDA approach implies a reduction of the model error, which decreases at each iteration; this is achieved thanks to the use of DA in the training process. DDA is very useful in that cases when observations are not available for some time steps and DA cannot be applied to reduce the model error. The effectiveness of this method is validated by examples and a sensitivity study. In this paper, the DDA technology is applied to two different applications: the Double integral mass dot system and the Lorenz system. However, the algorithm and numerical methods that are proposed in this work can be applied to other physics problems that involve other equations and/or state variables.
Temperature Sensing with Nd3+ Doped YAS Laser Microresonators
Authors: Walo-Martín Daniel , Paz-Buclatin Franzette , Ríos Susana , Martín Inocencio R. , Martin Leopoldo L. , Ródenas Airán , Sigaev Vladimir N. , Savinkov Vitaliy I. , Shakhgildyan Georgiy Y.
Published: January 2021

Yttria–alumina–silica (YAS) glass microspheres doped with Nd3+ ions were excited with a 532 nm continuous laser in order to study the dependency of the wavelength of the whispering gallery mode (WGM) peaks on the temperature of the sample. This was possible due to a previous calibration of the 808 nm and 890 nm emission bands of the Nd:YAS glass sample for different temperatures using the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technique. A maximum sensitivity of 15 × 10−6 K−1 and a temperature resolution limit of 0.2 K were obtained for the microsphere sensor. Moreover, laser emission at 1064 nm was observed by continuous pumping at 532 nm, and a power threshold of 100 mW was determined. Upconversion emissions of Nd3+ were also studied by exciting the sample at 808 nm.
Full Three-Dimensional Inverse Design Method for S-Ducts Using a New Dimensionless Flow Parameter
Authors: Kariminia Atefeh , Nili-Ahmadabadi Mahdi , Kim Kyung Chun
Published: January 2021

In this study, a new inverse design method is proposed for the full 3-D inverse design of S-ducts using curvature-based dimensionless pressure distribution as a target function. The wall pressure distribution in a 3-D curved duct is a function of the centerline curvature and the cross-sectional profile and area. A dimensionless pressure parameter was obtained as a function of the duct curvature and height of the cross-sections based on the normal pressure gradient equation. The dimensionless pressure parameter was used to eliminate the effect of the cross-sectional area on the wall pressure distribution. Full 3-D inverse design of an S-shaped duct was carried out by substituting the 3-D duct with a large number of 2-D planar ducts. The ball-spine inverse design method with vertical spins was coupled with the dimensionless pressure parameter as a target function for the design of the planar ducts. The inverse design process was performed in two steps. First, the height of each cross-section was considered constant, and only the duct centerline was allowed to be deformed by applying the difference between the dimensionless pressure on the upper and lower lines of symmetry plane. Then, a constant curvature was considered for each centerline in the equation, and the difference between the current and the target dimensionless pressure was applied to each upper and lower line of the planar sections to correct the heights of the 2-D planar sections, separately. The method was validated by choosing a straight duct as an initial guess, which converges to the target S-shaped duct. The results showed that the method is an efficient physical-based residual-correction method with low computational cost and good convergence rate. The 3-D wall pressure distribution of a high-deflected 3-D S-shaped diffuser was modified to eliminate the separation, secondary flow, and outlet distortion. Finally, the geometry corresponding to the modified pressure was obtained by the proposed 3-D inverse design method, which revealed higher pressure recovery, lower total pressure loss, and lower outlet flow distortion and swirl angle.
Angled Screwdriver Solutions and Low-Profile Attachments in Full Arch Rehabilitation with Divergent Implants
Authors: Scrascia Roberto , Cicciù Marco , Manco Carlo , Miccoli Adele , Cervino Gabriele
Published: January 2021

Edentulism is one of the most significant problems given the increase in the elderly population. The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate a case report with angled screwdriver solutions and new kinds of low-profile attachments in full arch rehabilitation with divergent implants. In this clinical case we will analyze how low-profile abutments with angled screwdriver channel in the OT Bridge system (Rhein83, Bologna, Italy) can be a predictable solution over time to create a fixed prosthesis on disparallel implants with a digital structure (New Ancorvis, Bologna, Italy) for the satisfaction of the patient and of the work team.
Synthesizing Individual Consumers′ Credit Historical Data Using Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Park Nari , Gu Yeong Hyeon , Yoo Seong Joon
Published: January 2021

The financial sector accumulates a massive amount of consumer data that contain the most sensitive information daily. These data are strictly limited outside the financial institutions, sometimes even within the same organization, for various reasons such as privacy laws or asset management policy. Financial data has never been more valuable, especially when assessed jointly with data from different industries, including healthcare, insurance, credit bureau, and research institutions. Therefore, it is critical to generate synthetic datasets that retain the statistical or latent properties of the real datasets as well as the privacy protection guaranteed. In this paper, we apply Generative Adversarial Nets (GANs) to generating synthetic consumer credit data to be used for various educational purposes, specifically in developing machine learning models. GAN is preferable to other pseudonymization methods such as masking, swapping, shuffling, or perturbation, for it does not suffer from adding more attributes or data. This study is significant because it is the first attempt to generate the synthetic data of real-world credit data in practical use. The results find that synthetic consumer credit data using GAN shows a substantial utility without severely compromising privacy and would be a useful resource for big data training programs.
Shadow Estimation for Ultrasound Images Using Auto-Encoding Structures and Synthetic Shadows
Authors: Yasutomi Suguru , Arakaki Tatsuya , Matsuoka Ryu , Sakai Akira , Komatsu Reina , Shozu Kanto , Dozen Ai , Machino Hidenori , Asada Ken , Kaneko Syuzo , Sekizawa Akihiko , Hamamoto Ryuji , Komatsu Masaaki
Published: January 2021

Acoustic shadows are common artifacts in medical ultrasound imaging. The shadows are caused by objects that reflect ultrasound such as bones, and they are shown as dark areas in ultrasound images. Detecting such shadows is crucial for assessing the quality of images. This will be a pre-processing for further image processing or recognition aiming computer-aided diagnosis. In this paper, we propose an auto-encoding structure that estimates the shadowed areas and their intensities. The model once splits an input image into an estimated shadow image and an estimated shadow-free image through its encoder and decoder. Then, it combines them to reconstruct the input. By generating plausible synthetic shadows based on relatively coarse domain-specific knowledge on ultrasound images, we can train the model using unlabeled data. If pixel-level labels of the shadows are available, we also utilize them in a semi-supervised fashion. By experiments on ultrasound images for fetal heart diagnosis, we show that our method achieved 0.720 in the DICE score and outperformed conventional image processing methods and a segmentation method based on deep neural networks. The capability of the proposed method on estimating the intensities of shadows and the shadow-free images is also indicated through the experiments.
Vibroacoustic Assessment of an Innovative Composite Material for the Roof of a Coupe Car
Authors: Cascone Nunziante , Caivano Luca , D’Errico Giuseppe , Citarella Roberto
Published: January 2021

The objective of this paper is the vibroacoustic evaluation of an innovative material for a sports car roof, aiming at replacing fiberglass composite materials. Such evaluation was carried out using numerical and experimental analysis techniques, with cross-comparison between the corresponding results. The innovative material under analysis is a composite material, with a thermoplastic polypropylene matrix and reinforcement made of cellulose fibers. In order to validate the virtual dynamic modeling of the new material, the inertance on different points of some sheets made of the material under analysis was evaluated by an in-house made experimental activity, performed in the CRF (Fiat Research Center) test room, and cross-compared with corresponding results from a numerical analysis performed with the MSC Nastran software. Then, a realistic model of the car roof of the Alfa Romeo 4C car, made with the new material, was implemented and analyzed from the vibroacoustic point of view. The mere switch to the new material, with no changes in the geometry/structure of the car roof, did not allow preserving the original values of static rigidity, dynamic rigidity, and configuration of modal shapes. For this reason, a geometric/structural optimization of the component was performed. Once the new geometry/structure was defined, a vibroacoustic analysis was carried out, checking for a possible coupling between the fluid cavity modes and the structure car body modes. Finally, the vibroacoustic transfer functions to the driver’s ear node were assessed, considering two different excitation points on the structure. The excellent damping capacity of the proposed material led to an improvement in the vibroacoustic transfer functions and to a reduction in the weight of the pavilion.
A Dual-Mass Resonant MEMS Gyroscope Design with Electrostatic Tuning for Frequency Mismatch Compensation
Authors: Pistorio Francesca , Saleem Muhammad Mubasher , Somà Aurelio
Published: January 2021

The micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based sensor technologies are considered to be the enabling factor for the future development of smart sensing applications, mainly due to their small size, low power consumption and relatively low cost. This paper presents a new structurally and thermally stable design of a resonant mode-matched electrostatic z-axis MEMS gyroscope considering the foundry constraints of relatively low cost and commercially available silicon-on-insulator multi-user MEMS processes (SOIMUMPs) microfabrication process. The novelty of the proposed MEMS gyroscope design lies in the implementation of two separate masses for the drive and sense axis using a unique mechanical spring configuration that allows minimizing the cross-axis coupling between the drive and sense modes. For frequency mismatch compensation between the drive and sense modes due to foundry process uncertainties and gyroscope operating temperature variations, a comb-drive-based electrostatic tuning is implemented in the proposed design. The performance of the MEMS gyroscope design is verified through a detailed coupled-field electric-structural-thermal finite element method (FEM)-based analysis.
Special Issue on “The Application of Quantum Mechanics in Reactivity of Molecules”
Authors: Sousa Sérgio F.
Published: January 2021

Over the last few decades, the increase in computational resources, coupled with the popularity of competitive quantum mechanics alternatives (particularly DFT (Density Functional Theory methods)), has promoted the widespread penetration of quantum mechanics applications into a variety of fields targeting the reactivity of molecules [...]
A Multiple-Swarm Particle Swarm Optimisation Scheme for Tracing Packets Back to the Attack Sources of Botnet
Authors: Lin Hsiao-Chung , Wang Ping , Lin Wen-Hui , Huang Yu-Hsiang
Published: January 2021

Network intrusion detection systems that employ existing IP traceback (IPTBK) algorithms are generally unable to trace multiple attack sources. In these systems, the sampling mechanism only screens parts of the routing information, which leads to the tracing of the neighbour of the attack source and fails to identify the attack source. Theoretically, the multimodal optimisation problem cannot be solved for all of its multiple solutions using the traditional particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithm. The present study focuses on the use of multiple-swarm PSO (MSPSO) for recursively tracing attack paths back to a botnet’s multiple attack sources using the subgroup strategy. Specifically, the fitness of each path was calculated using a quasi-Newton gradient descent method to confirm the crucial path for successfully tracing the attack source. For multimodal optimisation problems, the MSPSO algorithm achieves an effective balance between individual particle exploitation and multiswarm exploration when premature convergence occurs. Thus, this algorithm accurately traces multiple attack sources. To verify the effectiveness of identifying Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) control centres, networks with various topology sizes (32–64 nodes) were simulated using ns-3 with the Boston University Representative Internet Topology Generator. The proposed A* search algorithm (minimal cost pathfinding algorithm) and MSPSO were used to identify the sources of simulated DDoS attacks. Compared with commonly available systems, the MSPSO algorithm performs better in multimodal optimisation problems, improves the accuracy of traceability analysis and reduces false responses for IPTBK problems.
Found in Translation: Evolving Approaches for the Localization of Japanese Video Games
Authors: Mangiron Carme
Published: January 2021

Japanese video games have entertained players around the world and played an important role in the video game industry since its origins. In order to export Japanese games overseas, they need to be localized, i.e., they need to be technically, linguistically, and culturally adapted for the territories where they will be sold. This article hopes to shed light onto the current localization practices for Japanese games, their reception in North America, and how users’ feedback can contribute to fine-tuning localization strategies. After briefly defining what game localization entails, an overview of the localization practices followed by Japanese developers and publishers is provided. Next, the paper presents three brief case studies of the strategies applied to the localization into English of three renowned Japanese video game sagas set in Japan: Persona (1996–present), Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney (2005–present), and Yakuza (2005–present). The objective of the paper is to analyze how localization practices for these series have evolved over time by looking at industry perspectives on localization, as well as the target market expectations, in order to examine how the dialogue between industry and consumers occurs. Special attention is given to how players’ feedback impacted on localization practices. A descriptive, participant-oriented, and documentary approach was used to collect information from specialized websites, blogs, and forums regarding localization strategies and the reception of the localized English versions. The analysis indicates that localization strategies for Japanese games have evolved over time from a higher to a lower degree of cultural adaptation in order to meet target markets’ expectations. However, it was also noted that despite the increasing tendency to preserve the sociocultural content of the original, the language used in the translations needs to be vivid and idiomatic in order to reach a wider audience and provide an enjoyable gameplay experience.
Impact of Microphysical Parameterizations on Simulated Hurricanes—Using Multi-Parameter Satellite Data to Determine the Particle Size Distributions that Produce Most Realistic Storms
Authors: Hristova-Veleva Svetla , Haddad Ziad , Chau Alexandra , Stiles Bryan W. , Turk F. Joseph , Li P. Peggy , Knosp Brian , Vu Quoc , Shen Tsae-Pyng , Lambrigtsen Bjorn , Seo Eun-Kyoung , Su Hui
Published: January 2021

Understanding and forecasting hurricanes remains a challenge for the operational and research communities. To accurately predict the Tropical Cyclone (TC) evolution requires properly reflecting the storm’s inner core dynamics by using: (i) high-resolution models; (ii) realistic physical parameterizations. The microphysical processes and their representation in cloud-permitting models are of crucial importance. In particular, the assumed Particle Size Distribution (PSD) functions affect nearly all formulated microphysical processes and are among the most fundamental assumptions in the bulk microphysics schemes. This paper analyzes the impact of the PSD assumptions on simulated hurricanes and their synthetic radiometric signatures. It determines the most realistic, among the available set of assumptions, based on comparison to multi-parameter satellite observations. Here we simulated 2005′s category-5 Hurricane Rita using the cloud-permitting community Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) with two different microphysical schemes and with seven different modifications of the parametrized hydrometeor properties within one of the two schemes. We then used instrument simulators to produce satellite-like observations. The study consisted in evaluating the structure of the different simulated storms by comparing, for each storm, the calculated microwave signatures with actual satellite observations made by (a) the passive microwave radiometer that was carried by the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite—the TRMM microwave imager TMI, (b) TRMM’s precipitation radar (PR) and (c) the ocean-wind-vector scatterometer carried by the QuikSCAT satellite. The analysis reveals that the different choices of microphysical parameters do produce significantly different microwave signatures, allowing an objective determination of a “best” parameter combination whose resulting signatures are collectively most consistent with the wind and precipitation observations obtained from the satellites. In particular, we find that assuming PSDs with larger number of smaller hydrometeors produces storms that compare best to observations.