bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Association between Swine Leukocyte antigen Class II Haplotypes and Reproduction Traits in Microminipigs
Authors: Ando Asako , Imaeda Noriaki , Matsubara Tatsuya , Takasu Masaki , Miyamoto Asuka , Oshima Shino , Nishii Naohito , Kametani Yoshie , Shiina Takashi , Kulski Jerzy K. , Kitagawa Hitoshi
Published: July 2019

The effects of swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) molecules on numerous production and reproduction performance traits have been mainly reported as associations with specific SLA haplotypes that were assigned using serological typing methods. In this study, we intended to clarify the association between SLA class II genes and reproductive traits in a highly inbred population of 187 Microminipigs (MMP), that have eight different types of SLA class II haplotypes. In doing so, we compared the reproductive performances, such as fertility index, gestation period, litter size, and number of stillbirth among SLA class II low resolution haplotypes (Lrs) that were assigned by a polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) typing method. Only low resolution haplotypes were used in this study because the eight SLA class II high-resolution haplotypes had been assigned to the 14 parents or the progenitors of the highly inbred MMP herd in a previous publication. The fertility index of dams with Lr-0.13 was significantly lower than that of dams with Lr-0.16, Lr-0.17, Lr-0.18, or Lr-0.37. Dams with Lr-0.23 had significantly smaller litter size at birth than those with Lr-0.17, Lr-0.18, or Lr-0.37. Furthermore, litter size at weaning of dams with Lr-0.23 was also significantly smaller than those dams with Lr-0.16, Lr-0.17, Lr-0.18, or Lr-0.37. The small litter size of dams with Lr-0.23 correlated with the smaller body sizes of these MMPs. These results suggest that SLA class II haplotypes are useful differential genetic markers for further haplotypic and epistatic studies of reproductive traits, selective breeding programs, and improvements in the production and reproduction performances of MMPs.
Preparation and Characterization of In Situ Carbide Particle Reinforced Fe-Based Gradient Materials by Laser Melt Deposition
Authors: Zong Weian , Zhang Song , Zhang Chunhua , Wu Chenliang , Zhang Jingbo , Liu Yu , Abdullah Adil O.
Published: July 2019

To obtain the wear-resistant camshaft with surface rigidity and core toughness and improve the service life of camshaft, wear-resistant Fe-based alloy gradient material was prepared by laser melt deposition. The traditional camshaft was forged by 12CrNi2V. In this paper, four types of wear-resistant Fe-based powders were designed by introducing various content of Cr3C2 and V-rich Fe-based alloy (FeV50) into stainless steel powder. The results showed that the gradient materials formed a satisfactory metallurgical bond. The composition of the phases was mainly composed of α-Fe, Cr23C6, and V2C phases. The increasing of Cr3C2 and FeV50 led to transform V2C into the V8C7. The microstructures were mainly cellular dendrite and intergranular structure. Due to the addition of Cr3C2 and FeV50, the average microhardness and wear resistance of gradient materials were significantly better than that of 12CrNi2V. The sample with 8% V had the highest microhardness of 853 ± 18 HV, which was 2.6 times higher than that of 12CrNi2V. The sample with 6% V had the best wear resistance, which was 21 times greater than that of 12CrNi2V.
Movement and Home Range of the Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica): Spatial Ecology of a River Specialist
Authors: Ross Jason P. , Bluett Robert D. , Dreslik Michael J.
Published: July 2019

Spatial ecological information is necessary to guide the conservation efforts of river turtles, but it is lacking for many species including the smooth softshell turtle (Apalone mutica). We investigated the spatial ecology of A. mutica in two reaches of the Kaskaskia River in Illinois, USA to determine variables influencing movement rates, the best estimate of home range, and variables influencing home range size. We radio-tracked 28 A. mutica from 2013 to 2014 and used an information theoretic approach to select the best models describing movement and home range estimates. Mean movement rate was 142.3 m/day and was highly variable with some movements >2 km/day. Movement peaked at moderate water temperatures early in the active season, increased at higher water levels for females, and was greater in the higher stream order. The sexes responded differently to environmental variation, with female movement higher in most but not all conditions. The most informative home range estimate was a 95% kernel density estimate using likelihood cross-validation (CVh) smoothing clipped to the river channel. The mean home range size was 18.1 hectares and increased with movement rate, number of radio-locations, and stream order. Most turtles had well-defined home ranges, though a few were possibly nomadic. Our methods also provide a framework for spatial ecological studies of other riverine species.
The IDO Metabolic Trap Hypothesis for the Etiology of ME/CFS
Authors: Kashi Alex A. , Davis Ronald W. , Phair Robert D.
Published: July 2019

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating noncommunicable disease brandishing an enormous worldwide disease burden with some evidence of inherited genetic risk. Absence of measurable changes in patients’ standard blood work has necessitated ad hoc symptom-driven therapies and a dearth of mechanistic hypotheses regarding its etiology and possible cure. A new hypothesis, the indolamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) metabolic trap, was developed and formulated as a mathematical model. The historical occurrence of ME/CFS outbreaks is a singular feature of the disease and implies that any predisposing genetic mutation must be common. A database search for common damaging mutations in human enzymes produces 208 hits, including IDO2 with four such mutations. Non-functional IDO2, combined with well-established substrate inhibition of IDO1 and kinetic asymmetry of the large neutral amino acid transporter, LAT1, yielded a mathematical model of tryptophan metabolism that displays both physiological and pathological steady-states. Escape from the pathological one requires an exogenous perturbation. This model also identifies a critical point in cytosolic tryptophan abundance beyond which descent into the pathological steady-state is inevitable. If, however, means can be discovered to return cytosolic tryptophan below the critical point, return to the normal physiological steady-state is assured. Testing this hypothesis for any cell type requires only labelled tryptophan, a means to measure cytosolic tryptophan and kynurenine, and the standard tools of tracer kinetics.
Universal Target Learning: An Efficient and Effective Technique for Semi-Naive Bayesian Learning
Authors: Gao Siqi , Lou Hua , Wang Limin , Liu Yang , Fan Tiehu
Published: July 2019

To mitigate the negative effect of classification bias caused by overfitting, semi-naive Bayesian techniques seek to mine the implicit dependency relationships in unlabeled testing instances. By redefining some criteria from information theory, Target Learning (TL) proposes to build for each unlabeled testing instance P the Bayesian Network Classifier BNC P , which is independent and complementary to BNC T learned from training data T . In this paper, we extend TL to Universal Target Learning (UTL) to identify redundant correlations between attribute values and maximize the bits encoded in the Bayesian network in terms of log likelihood. We take the k-dependence Bayesian classifier as an example to investigate the effect of UTL on BNC P and BNC T . Our extensive experimental results on 40 UCI datasets show that UTL can help BNC improve the generalization performance.
Network-Wide Throughput Optimization for Highway Vehicle-To-Vehicle Communications
Authors: Abd El-Gawad Mohamed A. , ElSawy Hesham , Sakr Ahmed Hamdi , Kim HyungWon
Published: July 2019

This letter analyzes the meta-distribution of the transmission success probability (TSP) for vehicular networks based on a one-dimensional Poisson point process (PPP). We also propose a method to maximize the throughput across the vehicular network. Compared to the conventional spatial average performance assessment, the meta-distribution reveals the fraction of vehicles that operate at a target success rate of transmission across the highway. To this end, we propose a per-vehicle rate selection scheme to keep a target quality of service (QoS) level for all vehicles. The results reveal that operating at the spatially-averaged maximum throughput may lead to excessive variation in the performance of individual vehicles. However, with the proposed meta-distribution-aware rate selection scheme, the throughput variation among the vehicles can be significantly reduced (e.g., up to a 60 % reduction).
A Digital-Controlled SiC-Based Solid State Circuit Breaker with Soft Switch-Off Method for DC Power System
Authors: Qin Haihong , Mo Yubin , Xun Qian , Zhang Ying , Dong Yaowen
Published: July 2019

Due to the lower on-state resistance, direct current (DC) solid state circuit breakers (SSCBs) based on silicon-carbide (SiC) metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) can reduce on-state losses and the investment of the cooling system when compared to breakers based on silicon (Si) MOSFETs. However, SiC MOSFETs, with smaller die area and higher current density, lead to weaker short-circuit ability, shorter short-circuit withstand time and higher protection requirements. To improve the reliability and short-circuit capability of SiC-based DC solid state circuit breakers, the short-circuit fault mechanisms of Si MOSFETs and SiC MOSFETs are revealed. Combined with the desaturation detection (DESAT), a “soft turn-off” short-circuit protection method based on source parasitic inductor is proposed. When the DESAT protection is activated, the “soft turn-off” method can protect the MOSFET against short-circuit and overcurrent. The proposed SSCB, combined with the flexibility of the DSP, has the μs-scale ultrafast response time to overcurrent detection. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by the experimental platform. The method can reduce the voltage stress of the power device, and it can also suppress the short-circuit current.
Context-Aware Mode Selection for 5G Multi-Hop Cellular Networks
Authors: Lucas-Estañ M. Carmen , Gozalvez Javier , Sepulcre Miguel
Published: July 2019

In the present day, 5G and beyond networks are being designed to support the future increase of data traffic and service demands. To support such increase, 5G networks will incorporate device-centric technologies with adequate mechanisms to scale and handle the growing and very large number of connected devices and traffic demands. Device-centric technologies include Device-to-Device (D2D) communications and Multi-hop Cellular Networks (MCNs). In device-centric wireless networks, devices will be able to connect to the network using two different connection modes: through a traditional cellular connection, or through a multi-hop cellular connection based on D2D communications with intermediate mobile devices. Device-centric technologies will therefore provide new connectivity options and significant opportunities to enhance the capacity and efficiency of 5G networks. However, new challenges will need to be addressed. One of them is the selection of the most adequate connection mode for each mobile device, because it will be key to improve the network performance and efficiency. This work proposes a context-aware mode selection scheme capable of identifying and selecting the most adequate connection mode for each device under a wide range of deployment and operating conditions. The proposed scheme estimates the benefits and risks of each connection mode based on context information available at the base station guaranteeing low signaling overhead. The obtained results show that the proposed mode selection scheme helps achieving throughput gains higher than 200% compared to traditional single-hop cellular communications for devices at the cell edge, and significant gains are also achieved compared to other mode selection schemes implemented and evaluated.
Analysis of Battery Reduction for an Improved Opportunistic Wireless-Charged Electric Bus
Authors: Yin Andong , Wu Shenchun , Li Weihan , Hu Jinfang
Published: July 2019

As an attractive alternative to the traditional plug-in charged electric vehicles (EVs), wireless-charged EVs have recently been in the spotlight. Opportunistically charged utilizing the wireless-charging infrastructure installed under the road at bus stops, an electric bus can have a smaller and lighter battery pack. In this paper, an improved opportunistic wireless-charging system (OWCS) for electric bus is introduced, which includes the opportunistic stationary wireless-charging system (OSWCS) and opportunistic hybrid wireless-charging system (OHWCS) consisting of stationary wireless-charging and dynamic wireless-charging. A general battery reduction model is established for the opportunistic wireless-charged electric bus (OWCEB). Two different battery-reduction models are built separately for OWCEB on account of the characteristics of OSWCS and OHWCS. Additionally, the cost saving models including the production cost saving, the operation cost saving and total cost saving are established. Then, the mathematical models are demonstrated with a numerical example intuitively. Furthermore, we analyze several parameters that influence the effectiveness of battery reduction due to the application of an opportunistic wireless-charging system on an electric bus. Finally, some points worth discussing in this work are performed.
Butyronitrile-Based Electrolytes for Fast Charging of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hilbig Peter , Ibing Lukas , Winter Martin , Cekic-Laskovic Isidora
Published: July 2019

After determining the optimum composition of the butyronitrile: ethylene carbonate: fluoroethylene carbonate (BN:EC:FEC) solvent/co-solvent/additive mixture, the resulting electrolyte formulation (1M LiPF6 in BN:EC (9:1) + 3% FEC) was evaluated in terms of ionic conductivity and the electrochemical stability window, as well as galvanostatic cycling performance in NMC/graphite cells. This cell chemistry results in remarkable fast charging, required, for instance, for automotive applications. In addition, a good long-term cycling behavior lasts for 1000 charge/discharge cycles and improved ionic conductivity compared to the benchmark counterpart was achieved. XPS sputter depth profiling analysis proved the beneficial behavior of the tuned BN-based electrolyte on the graphite surface, by confirming the formation of an effective solid electrolyte interphase (SEI).
Impact of Tail Water Fluctuation on Turbine Start-Up and Optimized Regulation
Authors: Chen Sheng , Li Gaohui , Wang Delou , Wang Xingtao , Zhang Jian , Yu Xiaodong
Published: July 2019

Small hydropower plants are usually run-of-river with a poor adjustment capacity, and, therefore, large tail water fluctuation may be induced during flood discharge. Meanwhile, the turbine units need to be quickly started-up due to the regulation requirements of the power grid. However, failures of the start-up and grid connection are often encountered because of severe tail water fluctuation. In order to achieve the rapid and stable start-up under tail water fluctuations and to reduce the negative effect of start-up on turbine runner blades, the fluctuation law of the tail water from flood discharge model test is introduced as the boundary condition. A multi-objective comprehensive (MOC) index is proposed to optimize the parameters of the governor. Then the impacts of the tail water amplitude and frequency on the start-up are simulated and analyzed. Moreover, the start-up characteristics under the Integral Time Absolute Error (ITAE) index and the MOC index are compared through particle swarm optimization (PSO). The results show that both indices can ensure the rapidity of start-up under tail water fluctuation, whereas the MOC index can achieve a more stable start-up process. Therefore, the MOC index has a better stability and a less negative effect on the turbine runner blades.
Modelling the EU Internal Electricity Market: The PRIMES-IEM Model
Authors: Kannavou Maria , Zampara Marilena , Capros Pantelis
Published: July 2019

The paper presents a newly built model used to simulate the European Union (EU) internal electricity market and assess market reform policies. The model performs an hourly simulation of all stages of the wholesale markets at a Pan-European scale, covering the sequence of day-ahead, intra-day, and balancing/reserve auctions. The model includes market coupling in all market stages, estimates scarcity bidding by generators endogenously, and determines electricity trade as a flow-based allocation of interconnections via the market auctions implicitly. The model solves a unit-commitment program, formulated as a mixed-integer optimisation problem, under demand and generation constraints, interconnection possibilities, technical restrictions of the cyclic operation of power plants, and the provision of ancillary services. The novelty of this approach is the inclusion of distortions in all stages of the markets to evaluate the impacts of their removal, and the operation of the markets in a segmented versus an integrated manner in the EU. The model calculates revenues and costs per power plant in the EU on a country basis and the value of cross-border flows. The model evaluated market reform measures, including the abolishment of priority dispatch of renewable energy plants, the establishment of flow-based allocation of interconnectors without NTC limitations, the activation of demand response, and the market coupling in intra-day markets. The model application has been in the context of the electricity market design initiative included in the “Clean Energy for all Europeans” policy package proposed by the European Commission in 2016.
Bamboo Water Transport Assessed with Deuterium Tracing
Authors: Mei Tingting , Fang Dongming , Röll Alexander , Hölscher Dirk
Published: July 2019

Bamboo water transport comprises the pathway rhizomes-culms-leaves as well as transfer among culms via connected rhizomes. We assessed bamboo water transport in three big clumpy bamboo species by deuterium tracing. The tracer was injected into the base of established culms, and water samples were collected from leaves of the labeled culms and from neighboring culms. From the base of labeled culms to their leaves, the average tracer arrival time across species was 1.2 days, maximum tracer concentration was reached after 1.8 days, and the tracer residence time was 5.6 days. Sap velocities were high (13.9 m d−1). Daily culm water use rates estimated by the tracer method versus rates measured by a calibrated sap flux method were highly correlated (R2 = 0.94), but the tracer estimates were about 70% higher. Elevated deuterium concentrations in studied neighbor culms point to deuterium transfer among culms, which may explain the difference in culm water use estimates. We found no differences in deuterium concentrations between neighbor-established and neighbor freshly sprouted culms of a given species. In two species, elevated concentrations in both neighbor-established and neighbor freshly sprouted culms were observed over an extended period. An applied mixing model suggests that five neighbor culms received labeled water. In contrast, for the third species, elevated concentrations in neighbor culms were only observed at the earliest sampling date after labeling. This could indicate that there was only short-term transfer and that the tracer was distributed more widely across the rhizome network. In conclusion, our deuterium tracing experiments point to water transfer among culms, but with species-specific differences.
Insects for Food and Feed-Safety Aspects Related to Mycotoxins and Metals
Authors: Schrögel Pamela , Wätjen Wim
Published: July 2019

Edible insects as an alternative source of protein are discussed as an important contribution to future feed and food security. However, it has to be ensured that the consumption is non-hazardous. This systematic review summarizes findings concerning contaminations of insects with mycotoxins and heavy metal ions (SciFinder, Pubmed, until 26 June 2019). Both kinds of contaminants were reported to reduce growth performance and increase mortality in insects. There was no evidence for accumulation of various mycotoxins analyzed in distinct insect species. However, further research is necessary due to limitation of data. Since the gut content contributes relevantly to the total body burden of contaminants in insects, a starving period before harvesting is recommended. Contrary, accumulation of heavy metal ions occurred to a varying extent dependent on metal type, insect species, and developmental stage. Examples are the accumulation of cadmium (black soldier fly) and arsenic (yellow mealworm). The reported species-specific accumulation and metabolism patterns of contaminants emphasize the importance to assess potential safety hazards in a case-by-case approach. Subject to regular monitoring of contaminants, the general ban in the European Union to use waste in animal feed should also be questioned regarding insect farming.
On “Arogi” Buildings’ Structural System and Construction Procedure after the 1953 Earthquake in Kefalonia
Authors: Theotokatou Eleni
Published: July 2019

After the series of earthquakes in August 1953, most of Kefalonia’s building stock totally collapsed. The buildings that emerged as a result of a collective effort are commonly referred to as “arogi” buildings, with the term arogi meaning help or assistance. In this way, merely referring to these structures is a direct mention to the circumstances under which they were constructed. The reconstruction of the building stock of the island was based in a series of building types proposed from the authorities, and proceeded replacing the richness of the architectural forms that stood before the earthquake, with austere but necessary settlements. Nevertheless, it is these buildings that constitute today’s image of the island. This study wishes to introduce us to the “arogi” buildings structural system, as it was applied in Kefalonia after the 1953 earthquake, with reference to recent bibliography and the recent experience of the 2014 earthquake. The purpose of setting the grounds for such research would be to highlight the effectiveness of this structural system. Moreover, to emphasize the fact that “arogi” buildings and their construction procedure incorporate Kefalonia’s recent history and have eventually produced today’s available “traditional” architecture of the island.
Clinical Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Oral-Health Promotion in Dental Caries Prevention among Children: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fraihat Nadine , Madae’en Saba , Bencze Zsuzsa , Herczeg Adrienn , Varga Orsolya
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of oral-health promotion programs (OHPPs) aiming to improve children’s knowledge of favorable oral health behavior to lower decayed/-missing/-filled teeth (DMFT) while reducing the financial cost on health institutions. An electronic search was performed in seven databases. Studies were restricted to human interventions published in English. The search study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed based on the Drummonds Checklist. A total of 1072 references were found. Among these, 19 full texts were included. Most studies had a strong quality. The overall pooled impact of OHPPs estimates children suffering from DMFT/S to have 81% lower odds of participating in OHPP (95% CI 61–90%, I2: 98.3%, p = 0). Furthermore, the program was shown to be effective at lowering the cost in 97 out of 100 OHPPs (95% CI 89–99%, I2: 99%, p = 0). Three subgroups analyses (age groups, study countries, studies of the last five years) were performed to evaluate the influence modification on the pooled effect. A comprehensive analysis of the OHPPs confirmed a reduction effect on child DMFT, hence, lowering the financial burden of dental-care treatment on health institutions.
LGBTIQ+ Homelessness: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Fraser Brodie , Pierse Nevil , Chisholm Elinor , Cook Hera
Published: July 2019

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer (LGBTIQ+) people’s experiences of homelessness is an under-explored area of housing and homelessness studies, despite this group making up 20–40% of homeless populations. Despite this, much of the existing literature focuses on specific elements of LGBTIQ+ homelessness, and often does not consider the intersections of these elements, instead placing them into individual siloes. Our approach is an intersectional one; this paper identifies the key themes in the existing research, and analyses how these themes interact to reinforce the discrimination and stigma faced by LGBTIQ+ people who experience homelessness. This intersectional-systems thinking approach to LGBTIQ+ homelessness can be used to develop well-informed, culturally sensitive support programmes.
Evaluation of HBV-Like Circulation in Wild and Farm Animals from Brazil and Uruguay
Authors: Vieira Yasmine R. , Portilho Moyra M. , Oliveira Flávia F. , Guterres Alexandro , dos Santos Débora Regina L , Villar Lívia M. , Mirazo Santiago , Arbiza Juan , Dimache Luana A.G. , Almeida Fernando Q. , Brandão Martha L. , Cordeiro José Luís P. , Rocha Fabiana L. , Azevedo Fernanda C. , Lemos Frederico G. , Campos João Bosco V. , Macedo Gabriel C. , Herrera Heitor M. , Péres Igor Alexandre S. , Zimmermann Namor P. , Piovezan Ubiratan , Pellegrin Aiesca O. , de Paula Vanessa S. , Pinto Marcelo A.
Published: July 2019

The origin of the hepatitis B virus is a subject of wide deliberation among researchers. As a result, increasing academic interest has focused on the spread of the virus in different animal species. However, the sources of viral infection for many of these animals are unknown since transmission may occur from animal to animal, human to human, animal to human, and human to animal. The aim of this study was to evaluate hepadnavirus circulation in wild and farm animals (including animals raised under wild or free conditions) from different sites in Brazil and Uruguay using serological and molecular tools. A total of 487 domestic wild and farm animals were screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) serological markers and tested via quantitative and qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect viral DNA. We report evidence of HBsAg (surface antigen of HBV) and total anti-HBc (HBV core antigen) markers as well as low-copy hepadnavirus DNA among domestic and wild animals. According to our results, which were confirmed by partial genome sequencing, as the proximity between humans and animals increases, the potential for pathogen dispersal also increases. A wider knowledge and understanding of reverse zoonoses should be sought for an effective One Health response.
Research on the Spatial Features of the E-RetailingEconomic Linkages at County Level: A Case Study for Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Shen Wei , Qin Yaochen , Xie Zhixiang
Published: July 2019

Quantitatively evaluating the spatial characteristics of regional e-retailing economy linkages is of great significance for clarifying the spatial organization of regional e-retailing economies, and promoting regional coordinated development. However, due to the lack of study data, it is difficult toconduct quantitative research on these regional e-retailing economic linkages. Taking advantage of emerging new data sources, the depth and breadth of related research cannow be improved. This paper considers 64 county-level economic areas in Zhejiang Province as network nodes.A revised gravity model was used to measure the intensity of the e-retailing economic linkage in 2016,based upon the e-retailing data provided by the Department of Commerce of Zhejiang Province, China. On this basis, the geographic information system (GIS) tool, a model-potential method and a social network, were used to analyze the spatial features of the e-retail economic linkages at the countylevel in Zhejiang Province. The results showed that the spatial polarization of the economic linkage pattern emerged as prominent, with the overall difference and east-west gradient difference between counties proving significant. In addition, the major linking partners of most regions were relatively singular, and a problem of vulnerability in e-retail economic development was shown.Secondly, the southwest region of Zhejiang Province was an important obstacle in the integration process of regional e-retail economy, through analyzing the connection scope of e-retailing economics. Thirdly, the central Zhejiang subgroupwas a key plate connecting east and west, which plays an importantlinking role in the development of regional equalizationwhen we analyzethe cohesive subgroup pattern. Inspired by this, we hypothesized that a microscopic analysis results of Zhejiang Province could provide some enlightenment for the balanced and integrated development of China’s regional e-retailing economy.
Effects of Seismogenic Faults on the Predictive Mapping of Probability to Earthquake-Triggered Landslides
Authors: Shao Xiaoyi , Xu Chong , Ma Siyuan , Zhou Qing
Published: July 2019

The seismogenic fault is crucial for spatial prediction of co-seismic landslides, e.g., in logistic regression (LR) analysis considering influence factors. On one hand, earthquake-induced landslides are usually densely distributed along the seismogenic fault; on the other hand, different sections of the seismogenic fault may have distinct landslide-triggering capabilities due to their different mechanical properties. However how the feature of a fault influence mapping of landslide occurrence probability remains unclear. Relying on the landslide data of the 2013 Lushan, China Mw 6.6 earthquake, this study attempted to further address this issue. We quantified the seismogenic fault effects on landslides into three modes: the distance effect, the different part effects, and the combined effects of the two. Four possible cases were taken into consideration: zoning the study area vertical and parallel to the fault (case 1), zoning the study area only vertical to the fault (case 2), zoning the study area only parallel to the fault (case 3), and without such study-area zonations (case 4). Using the LR model, predictive landslide probability maps were prepared on these four cases. The model also fully considered other influencing factors of earthquake landslides, including elevation, slope, aspect, topographic wetness index (TWI), peak ground acceleration (PGA), lithology, rainfall, distance from the epicenter, distance from the road, and distance from the river. Then, cross-comparisons and validations were conducted on these maps. For training datasets, results show that the success rates of earthquake-triggered landslides for the former three scenarios were 85.1%, 84.2%, and 84.7%, respectively, while that of the model for case 4 was only 84%. For testing datasets, the prediction rates of the four LRs were 84.45%, 83.46%, 84.22%, and 83.61%, respectively, as indicated by comparing the test dataset and the landslide probability map. This means that the effects of the seismogenic fault, which are represented by study-area zonations vertical and parallel to the fault proper, are significant to the predictive mapping of earthquake-induced landslides.
Simultaneous Ligand and Receptor Tracking through NMR Spectroscopy Enabled by Distinct 19F Labels
Authors: Simmons Jeffrey R. , Murza Alexandre , Lumsden Michael D. , Kenward Calem , Marsault Éric , Rainey Jan K.
Published: July 2019

To probe ligand-receptor binding at the atomic-level, a frequent approach involves multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy experiments relying on 13C- and/or 15N-enrichment alongside 1H. Alternatively, the lack of fluorine in biomolecules may be exploited through specific incorporation of 19F nuclei into a sample. The 19F nucleus is highly sensitive to environmental changes and allows for one-dimensional NMR spectroscopic study, with perturbation to chemical shift and spin dynamics diagnostic of structural change, ligand binding, and modified conformational sampling. This was applied to the apelinergic system, which comprises a rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (the apelin receptor (AR)/APJ) and two families of cognate ligands, the apelin and apela (ELABELA/toddler) peptides. Specifically, AR fragments consisting of either the N-terminal tail and first transmembrane (TM) α-helix (AR55) or the first three transmembrane α-helices (TM1-3) were prepared with biosynthetic fluorotryptophan incorporation. Interactions of each AR fragment with a high-affinity, 2,4,5-trifluorophenylalanine labeled apelin analogue were compared by 19F NMR. Distinct ranges of 19F chemical shifts for ligand and receptor provide unambiguous tracking of both species, with distinct binding behaviour observed for each AR fragment implying that AR55 is not sufficient to recapitulate the physiological binding event. Site-specific perturbation was also apparent for the apelin analogue as a function of substitution site, indicating an orientational binding preference. As a whole, this strategy of distinctive 19F labelling for ligand and receptor provides a relatively fast (i.e., employing 1D NMR experiments) and highly sensitive method to simultaneously and definitively track binding in both species.
Production of Hexaric Acids from Biomass
Authors: Sakuta Riku , Nakamura Nobuhumi
Published: July 2019

Sugar acids obtained by aldohexose oxidation of both the terminal aldehyde group and the hydroxy group at the other end to carboxyl groups are called hexaric acids (i.e., six-carbon aldaric acids). Because hexaric acids have four secondary hydroxy groups that are stereochemically diverse and two carboxyl groups, various applications of these acids have been studied. Conventionally, hexaric acids have been produced mainly by nitric acid oxidation of aldohexose, but full-scale commercialization has not been realized; there are many problems regarding yield, safety, environmental burden, etc. In recent years, therefore, improvements in hexaric acid production by nitric acid oxidation have been made, while new production methods, including biocatalytic methods, are actively being studied. In this paper, we summarize these production methods in addition to research on the application of hexaric acids.
Rapid or Slow Time to Brain Death? Impact on Kidney Graft Injuries in an Allotransplantation Porcine Model
Authors: Kerforne Thomas , Giraud Sébastien , Danion Jérôme , Thuillier Raphael , Couturier Pierre , Hebrard William , Mimoz Olivier , Hauet Thierry
Published: July 2019

The use of donors deceased after brain death (DBD) with extended criteria in response to the shortage of grafts leads to the removal of more fragile kidneys. These grafts are at greater risk of not being grafted or delayed function. A better knowledge of the pathophysiology of DBDs would improve this situation. There is a difference between the results from animal models of DBD and the clinical data potentially explained by the kinetics of brain death induction. We compared the effect of the induction rate of brain death on the recovery of post-transplant renal function in a pig model of DBD followed by allografts in nephrectomized pigs. Resumption of early function post-transplant was better in the rapidly generated brain death group (RgBD) and graft fibrosis at three months less important. Two groups had identical oxidative stress intensity but a greater response to this oxidative stress by SIRT1, PGC1-α and NRF2 in the RgBD group. Modulation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) stimulation by NRF2 would also regulate the survival/apoptosis balance of renal cells. For the first time we have shown that an allostatic response to oxidative stress can explain the impact of the rapidity of brain death induction on the quality of kidney transplants.
Peroxisomal Hydrogen Peroxide Metabolism and Signaling in Health and Disease
Authors: Lismont Celien , Revenco Iulia , Fransen Marc
Published: July 2019

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a non-radical reactive oxygen species generated during many (patho)physiological conditions, is currently universally recognized as an important mediator of redox-regulated processes. Depending on its spatiotemporal accumulation profile, this molecule may act as a signaling messenger or cause oxidative damage. The focus of this review is to comprehensively evaluate the evidence that peroxisomes, organelles best known for their role in cellular lipid metabolism, also serve as hubs in the H2O2 signaling network. We first briefly introduce the basic concepts of how H2O2 can drive cellular signaling events. Next, we outline the peroxisomal enzyme systems involved in H2O2 metabolism in mammals and reflect on how this oxidant can permeate across the organellar membrane. In addition, we provide an up-to-date overview of molecular targets and biological processes that can be affected by changes in peroxisomal H2O2 metabolism. Where possible, emphasis is placed on the molecular mechanisms and factors involved. From the data presented, it is clear that there are still numerous gaps in our knowledge. Therefore, gaining more insight into how peroxisomes are integrated in the cellular H2O2 signaling network is of key importance to unravel the precise role of peroxisomal H2O2 production and scavenging in normal and pathological conditions.
Differences in Shedding of the Interleukin-11 Receptor by the Proteases ADAM9, ADAM10, ADAM17, Meprin α, Meprin β and MT1-MMP
Authors: Sammel Martin , Peters Florian , Lokau Juliane , Scharfenberg Franka , Werny Ludwig , Linder Stefan , Garbers Christoph , Rose-John Stefan , Becker-Pauly Christoph
Published: July 2019

Interleukin-11 (IL-11) has been associated with inflammatory conditions, bone homeostasis, hematopoiesis, and fertility. So far, these functions have been linked to classical IL-11 signaling via the membrane bound receptor (IL-11R). However, a signaling cascade via the soluble IL-11R (sIL-11R), generated by proteolytic cleavage, can also be induced. This process is called IL-11 trans-signaling. A disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10) and neutrophil elastase were described as ectodomain sheddases of the IL-11R, thereby inducing trans-signaling. Furthermore, previous studies employing approaches for the stimulation and inhibition of endogenous ADAM-proteases indicated that ADAM10, but not ADAM17, can cleave the IL-11R. Herein, we show that several metalloproteases, namely ADAM9, ADAM10, ADAM17, meprin β, and membrane-type 1 matrix metalloprotease/matrix metalloprotease-14 (MT1-MMP/MMP-14) when overexpressed are able to shed the IL-11R. All sIL-11R ectodomains were biologically active and capable of inducing signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation in target cells. The difference observed for ADAM10/17 specificity compared to previous studies can be explained by the different approaches used, such as stimulation of protease activity or making use of cells with genetically deleted enzymes.
Transfer Learning for Named Entity Recognition in Financial and Biomedical Documents
Authors: Francis Sumam , Van Landeghem Jordy , Moens Marie-Francine
Published: July 2019

Recent deep learning approaches have shown promising results for named entity recognition (NER). A reasonable assumption for training robust deep learning models is that a sufficient amount of high-quality annotated training data is available. However, in many real-world scenarios, labeled training data is scarcely present. In this paper we consider two use cases: generic entity extraction from financial and from biomedical documents. First, we have developed a character based model for NER in financial documents and a word and character based model with attention for NER in biomedical documents. Further, we have analyzed how transfer learning addresses the problem of limited training data in a target domain. We demonstrate through experiments that NER models trained on labeled data from a source domain can be used as base models and then be fine-tuned with few labeled data for recognition of different named entity classes in a target domain. We also witness an interest in language models to improve NER as a way of coping with limited labeled data. The current most successful language model is BERT. Because of its success in state-of-the-art models we integrate representations based on BERT in our biomedical NER model along with word and character information. The results are compared with a state-of-the-art model applied on a benchmarking biomedical corpus.
A Finite Element Analysis to Compare Stress Distribution on Extra-Short Implants with Two Different Internal Connections
Authors: García-Braz Silvia Helena , Prados-Privado María , Silveira Zanatta Luiz Carlos , Calvo-Guirado José Luis , Prados-Frutos Juan Carlos , Gehrke Sérgio Alexandre
Published: July 2019

Background: The goal of this study was to analyze the stress distribution on two types of extra-short dental implants with 5 mm of length: An internal hexagon (IH) and morse taper connection (MT). Methods: The three-dimensional model was composed of trabecular and cortical bone, a crown, an extra-short dental implant and their components. An axial load of 150 N was applied and another inclined 30° with the same magnitude. Results: Stress concentrations on the IH implant are observed in the region of the first threads for the screw. However, in the MT implant the highest stress occurs at the edges of the upper implant platform. Conclusions: In view of the results obtained in this study the two types of prosthetic fittings present a good stress distribution. The Morse taper connections presented better behavior than the internal in both loading configurations.
Next Generation Sequencing Discoveries of the Nitrate-Responsive Oral Microbiome and Its Effect on Vascular Responses
Authors: Grant Melissa M. , Jönsson Daniel
Published: July 2019

Cardiovascular disease is a worldwide human condition which has multiple underlying contributing factors: one of these is long-term increased blood pressure—hypertension. Nitric oxide (NO) is a small nitrogenous radical species that has a number of physiological functions including vasodilation. It can be produced enzymatically through host nitric oxide synthases and by an alternative nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway from ingested inorganic nitrate. It was discovered that this route relies on the ability of the oral microbiota to reduce nitrate to nitrite and NO. Next generation sequencing has been used over the past two decades to gain deeper insight into the microbes involved, their location and the effect of their removal from the oral cavity. This review article presents this research and comments briefly on future directions.
Contralateral Muscle Imbalances and Physiological Profile of Recreational Aerial Athletes
Authors: Ruggieri Rachel M. , Costa Pablo B.
Published: July 2019

Background: Aerial fitness is quickly gaining popularity; however, little is known regarding the physiological demands of aerial athletes. The purpose of the study was to examine contralateral muscle imbalances, compare dominant versus non-dominant hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratios, and to establish a physiological profile of recreational aerial athletes. Methods: Thirteen aerialist women visited a local aerial studio to participate in a data collection session to examine isometric levels of upper and lower body strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular fitness. Results: No significant differences were found between dominant and non-dominant hand grip strength (p = 0.077), dominant and non-dominant isometric knee flexion (p = 0.483), dominant and non-dominant isometric knee extension (p = 0.152), or dominant and non-dominant isometric H:Q ratios (p = 0.102). In addition, no significant difference was found between isometric dominant H:Q ratio and the widely-used value of 0.60 (p = 0.139). However, isometric non-dominant H:Q ratio was significantly lower than the 0.60 criterion (p = 0.004). Aerial athletes demonstrated to have excellent flexibility, balance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and average strength. Conclusions: Aerial fitness may be another recreational activity that could be used to maintain higher levels of flexibility, balance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and strength. Aerialists may want to consider focusing on strengthening the lower body and balancing the hamstrings and quadriceps muscle strength.
On the Solid Lubricity of Electrophoretically Deposited Carbon Nanohorn Coatings
Authors: MacLucas Timothy , Suarez Sebastian
Published: July 2019

In this study, dahlia-type carbon nanohorns (CNH) have been deposited onto a stainless steel substrate by using electrophoretic deposition. Secondly, the lubrication properties of the carbon nanohorn coating have been researched by tribometry and compared to an uncoated reference. Wear track analysis has been conducted to identify the underlying tribo-mechanisms. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy was employed to study the structural changes of the CNH during dispersion and tribological testing. Furthermore, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was used in order to investigate the chemical composition of the wear tracks’ surface. This work has shown that CNH coatings have the ability to maintain effective solid lubrication on a polished stainless steel surface. A temporary friction reduction of 83% was achieved compared to the uncoated reference. Moreover, the lubricity was active for significant periods of time due to the formation of a Mg(OH)2 layer which provides a certain degree of substrate adhesion as it holds the CNH in the wear track. Once this holding layer wanes, the CNH are gradually removed from wear track resulting in an increase of the coefficient of friction. The complete removal of CNH from the wear track as well as considerable oxide formation was confirmed by EDX. Moreover, the amount of defects in the CNHs’ structure increases by being exposed to tribological strain. Adhesion has been identified as the dominant wear mechanism.
Study on Quenching Characteristics and Resistance Equivalent Estimation Method of Second-Generation High Temperature Superconducting Tape under Different Overcurrent
Authors: Liang Siyuan , Ren Li , Ma Tao , Xu Ying , Tang Yuejin , Tan Xiangyu , Li Zheng , Chen Guilun , Yan Sinian , Cao Zhiwei , Shi Jing , Xiao Leishi , Song Meng
Published: July 2019

In this paper, through AC and DC overcurrent tests on second generation high temperature superconducting tape (2G HTS tape), we respectively summarize the typical types of quenching resistance and corresponding quenching degree, in which there are three types under AC overcurrent and two types under DC overcurrent. According to experimental results, a rule was found that, when 2G HTS tape quenches to normal state, the relationship between quenching resistance and joule heat generated from 2G HTS tape presents a fixed trend line, and the influence of liquid nitrogen can be ignored. Then, the characteristics and rules of quenching resistance found in experiments are well explained and confirmed by a detailed 3D finite element model of 2G HTS tape including electromagnetic field and thermal field. Finally, based on above works, our group proposes a new equivalent method to estimate the quenching resistance, where the results of AC and DC overcurrent experiments can be equivalent to each other within a certain range. Compared with FEM, the method has the following advantages: (i) The method is simple and easy to implement. (ii) This method combines precision and computational efficiency. (iii) With superconducting tape quenching to normal state, this method presents a good consistency with experimental results.