bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the Compressive Strength of Concrete Using an RBF-ANN Model
Authors: Wu Nan-Jing
Published: July 2021

In this study, a radial basis function (RBF) artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting the 28-day compressive strength of concrete is established. The database used in this study is the expansion by adding data from other works to the one used in the author’s previous work. The stochastic gradient approach presented in the textbook is employed for determining the centers of RBFs and their shape parameters. With an extremely large number of training iterations and just a few RBFs in the ANN, all the RBF-ANNs have converged to the solutions of global minimum error. So, the only consideration of whether the ANN can work in practical uses is just the issue of over-fitting. The ANN with only three RBFs is finally chosen. The results of verification imply that the present RBF-ANN model outperforms the BP-ANN model in the author’s previous work. The centers of the RBFs, their shape parameters, their weights, and the threshold are all listed in this article. With these numbers and using the formulae expressed in this article, anyone can predict the 28-day compressive strength of concrete according to the concrete mix proportioning on his/her own.
Digital Twin Modeling of a Solar Car Based on the Hybrid Model Method with Data-Driven and Mechanistic
Authors: Bai Luchang , Zhang Youtong , Wei Hongqian , Dong Junbo , Tian Wei
Published: July 2021

Solar cars are energy-sensitive and affected by many factors. In order to achieve optimal energy management of solar cars, it is necessary to comprehensively characterize the energy flow of vehicular components. To model these components which are hard to formulate, this study stimulates a solar car with the digital twin (DT) technology to accurately characterize energy. Based on the hybrid modeling approach combining mechanistic and data-driven technologies, the DT model of a solar car is established with a designed cloud platform server based on Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) to realize data interaction between physical and virtual entities. The DT model is further modified by the offline optimization data of drive motors, and the energy consumption is evaluated with the DT system in the real-world experiment. Specifically, the energy consumption error between the experiment and simulation is less than 5.17%, which suggests that the established DT model can accurately stimulate energy consumption. Generally, this study lays the foundation for subsequent performance optimization research.
Normative Values of Height, Bodyweight and Body Mass Index of 12–17 Years Population from Extremadura (Spain)
Authors: Gómez-Galán Rafael , Pastor-Cisneros Raquel , Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Adsuar José Carmelo , García-Gordillo Miguel Ángel , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura
Published: July 2021

Background: Growth charts constitute an essential tool for monitoring adolescents’ development. In Extremadura, the percentile growth charts by Faustino Orbegozo Foundation are used. However, they are based on Basque Country population data. Considering socioeconomic differences between Spanish regions, growth chart data could not be appropriate. Aims: to describe the percentile distribution of adolescents from Extremadura and compare these percentiles with those proposed by the Faustino Orbegozo Eizaguirre Foundation that are currently applied in the Extremadura Health Service. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 4130 adolescents (12–17 years) participated into the study. Bodyweight and height were assessed. Results: Significant differences were found comparing real measured values with commonly used reference tables for bodyweight at all ages between 12 and 13 years and at 14 years in both gender (p < 0.05). Differences were also found in boys at 15, 16.5 and 17 years (p < 0.05). Regarding height, significant differences were reported at 12, 13, 14.5, 15, 16.5 and 17 years old (p < 0.05) in males; while females’ results only revealed differences at 12, 12.5, 14.5 and 15.5 years (p < 0.05). BMI outcomes showed differences in both gender at 12, 12.5, 13, 14 and 15 years old (p < 0.05). Differences were also found at 16 and 14.5 years for boys and girls, respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Bodyweight, height and BMI of adolescents from Extremadura differ of the reference values currently applied. Hence, this study’s outcomes suggest the need to use new indicators, adapted to the physical and anthropometric reality of children and young people to avoid the possible normalisation of situations of thinness, overweight or obesity.
Lung Thermal Ablation: Comparison between an Augmented Reality Computed Tomography (CT) 3D Navigation System (SIRIO) and Standard CT-Guided Technique
Authors: Grasso Rosario Francesco , Andresciani Flavio , Altomare Carlo , Pacella Giuseppina , Castiello Gennaro , Carassiti Massimiliano , Quattrocchi Carlo Cosimo , Faiella Eliodoro , Beomonte Zobel Bruno
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: The aim of this retrospective study is to assess safety and efficacy of lung radiofrequency (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) using an augmented reality computed tomography (CT) navigation system (SIRIO) and to compare it with the standard CT-guided technique. (2) Methods: Lung RFA and MWA were performed with an augmented reality CT 3D navigation system (SIRIO) in 52 patients. A comparison was then performed with a group of 49 patients undergoing the standard CT-guided technique. All the procedures were divided into four groups based on the lesion diameter (>2 cm or ≤2 cm), and procedural time, the number of CT scans, radiation dose administered, and complications rate were evaluated. Technical success was defined as the presence of a “ground glass” area completely covering the target lesion at the immediate post-procedural CT. (3) Results: Full technical success was achieved in all treated malignant lesions for all the considered groups. SIRIO-guided lung thermo-ablations (LTA) displayed a significant decrease in the number of CT scans, procedure time, and patients’ radiation exposure (p < 0.001). This also resulted in a dosage reduction in hypnotics and opioids administrated for sedation during LTA. No significant differences were observed between the SIRIO and non-SIRIO group in terms of complications incidence. (4) Conclusions: SIRIO is an efficient tool to perform CT-guided LTA, displaying a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in the number of required CT scans, procedure time, and patients’ radiation exposure.
Oncogenic Kinase Cascades Induce Molecular Mechanisms That Protect Leukemic Cell Models from Lethal Effects of De Novo dNTP Synthesis Inhibition
Authors: Pons Miriam , Zeyn Yanira , Zahn Stella , Mahendrarajah Nisintha , Page Brent D. G. , Gunning Patrick T. , Moriggl Richard , Brenner Walburgis , Butter Falk , Krämer Oliver H.
Published: July 2021

The ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor hydroxyurea suppresses de novo dNTP synthesis and attenuates the hyperproliferation of leukemic blasts. Mechanisms that determine whether cells undergo apoptosis in response to hydroxyurea are ill-defined. We used unbiased proteomics to uncover which pathways control the transition of the hydroxyurea-induced replication stress into an apoptotic program in chronic and acute myeloid leukemia cells. We noted a decrease in the serine/threonine kinase RAF1/c-RAF in cells that undergo apoptosis in response to clinically relevant doses of hydroxyurea. Using the RAF inhibitor LY3009120, we show that RAF activity determines the sensitivity of leukemic cells toward hydroxyurea. We further disclose that pharmacological inhibition of the RAF downstream target BCL-XL with the drug navitoclax and RNAi combine favorably with hydroxyurea against leukemic cells. BCR-ABL1 and hyperactive FLT3 are tyrosine kinases that causally contribute to the development of leukemia and induce RAF1 and BCL-XL. Accordingly, the ABL inhibitor imatinib and the FLT3 inhibitor quizartinib sensitize leukemic cells to pro-apoptotic effects of hydroxyurea. Moreover, hydroxyurea and navitoclax kill leukemic cells with mutant FLT3 that are resistant to quizartinib. These data reveal cellular susceptibility factors toward hydroxyurea and how they can be exploited to eliminate difficult-to-treat leukemic cells with clinically relevant drug combinations.
Extracellular Matrices and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Targets for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy?
Authors: Belhabib Ismahane , Zaghdoudi Sonia , Lac Claire , Bousquet Corinne , Jean Christine
Published: July 2021

Solid cancer progression is dictated by neoplastic cell features and pro-tumoral crosstalks with their microenvironment. Stroma modifications, such as fibroblast activation into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, are now recognized as critical events for cancer progression and as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets. The recent appreciation of the key, complex and multiple roles of the ECM in cancer and of the CAF diversity, has revolutionized the field and raised innovative but challenging questions. Here, we rapidly present CAF heterogeneity in link with their specific ECM remodeling features observed in cancer, before developing each of the impacts of such ECM modifications on tumor progression (survival, angiogenesis, pre-metastatic niche, chemoresistance, etc.), and on patient prognosis. Finally, based on preclinical studies and recent results obtained from clinical trials, we highlight key mechanisms or proteins that are, or may be, used as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets, and we report and discuss benefits, disappointments, or even failures, of recently reported stroma-targeting strategies.
Nanoparticle Determination in Water by LED-Excited Surface Plasmon Resonance Imaging
Authors: Wunderlich Lukas , Hausler Peter , Märkl Susanne , Bierl Rudolf , Hirsch Thomas
Published: July 2021

The increasing popularity of nanoparticles in many applications has led to the fact that these persistent materials pollute our environment and threaten our health. An online sensor system for monitoring the presence of nanoparticles in fresh water would be highly desired. We propose a label-free sensor based on SPR imaging. The sensitivity was enhanced by a factor of about 100 by improving the detector by using a high-resolution camera. This revealed that the light source also needed to be improved by using LED excitation instead of a laser light source. As a receptor, different self-assembled monolayers have been screened. It can be seen that the nanoparticle receptor interaction is of a complex nature. The best system when taking sensitivity as well as reversibility into account is given by a dodecanethiol monolayer on the gold sensor surface. Lanthanide-doped nanoparticles, 29 nm in diameter and with a similar refractive index to the most common silica nanoparticles were detected in water down to 1.5 µg mL−1. The sensor can be fully regenerated within one hour without the need for any washing buffer. This sensing concept is expected to be easily adapted for the detection of nanoparticles of different size, shape, and composition, and upon miniaturization, suitable for long-term applications to monitor the quality of water.
Recent Climatic Trends and Analysis of Monthly Heating and Cooling Degree Hours in Sydney
Authors: Livada Iro , Pyrgou Andri , Haddad Shamila , Sadeghi Mahsan , Santamouris Mattheos
Published: July 2021

Recent climatic trends of two nearby stations in Sydney were examined in terms of hourly ambient air temperature and wind direction for the time period 1999–2019. A reference was set for the monthly number of cooling (CDH) and heating (HDH) degree hours and the number of monthly hours that temperatures exceeded 24 °C (T24) or were below 14 °C (T14), parameters affecting not only the energy demands but also the quality of life. The degree hours were linked to the dominant synoptic conditions and the local phenomena: sea breeze and inland winds. The results indicated that both areas had higher mean monthly number of HDH (980–1421) than CDH (397–748), thus higher heating demands. The results also showed a higher mean monthly number of T14 (34–471) than T24 (40–320). A complete spatiotemporal profile of the climatic variations was given through the analysis of their dynamic progress and correlation. In order to estimate the daily values of CDH and HDH, T24 and T14 empirical models were calculated per month based on the maximum and minimum daily air temperatures. The use of forecasted weather conditions and the created empirical models may later be used in the energy planning scenarios.
Effect of Vanadium Reinforcement on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Matrix Composites
Authors: Sun Liqing , Sun Shuai , Zhou Haiping , Zhang Hongbin , Wang Gang , Zhang Chengcai , He Lianfang , Wang Xin
Published: July 2021

In this work, vanadium particles (VP) were utilized as a novel reinforcement of AZ31 magnesium (Mg) alloy. The nanocrystalline (NC) AZ31–VP composites were prepared via mechanical milling (MM) and vacuum hot-press sintering. During the milling process, the presence of VP contributed to the cold welding and fracture mechanism, resulting in the acceleration of the milling process. Additionally, increasing the VP content accelerated the grain refinement of the matrix during the milling process. After milling for 90 h, the average grain size of AZ31-X wt % Vp (X = 5, 7.5, 10) was refined to only about 23 nm, 19 nm and 16 nm, respectively. In the meantime, VP was refined to sub-micron scale and distributed uniformly in the matrix, exhibiting excellent interfacial bonding with the matrix. After the sintering process, the average grain size of AZ31-X wt % VP (X = 5, 7.5, 10) composites still remained at the NC scale, which was mainly caused by the pinning effect of VP. Besides that, the porosity of the sintered composites was no more than 7.8%, indicating a good densification effect. As a result, there was little difference between the theoretical and real density. Compared to as-cast AZ31 Mg alloy, the microhardness of sintered AZ31-X wt % VP (X = 5, 7.5, 10) composites increased by 65%, 87% and 96%, respectively, owing to the strengthening mechanisms of grain refinement strengthening, Orowan strengthening and load-bearing effects.
Genetic Diversity in 19th Century Barley (Hordeum vulgare) Reflects Differing Agricultural Practices and Seed Trade in Jämtland, Sweden
Authors: Larsson Martin N. A. , Leino Matti W. , Hagenblad Jenny
Published: July 2021

Landrace crops are important genetic resources, both for plant breeding efforts and for studying agrarian history. The distribution of genetic diversity among landraces can reflect effects of climate, economic structure, and trade also over a limited spatial and temporal scale. In this study, we have SNP genotyped historical barley seed samples from the late 19th century, together with extant barley landrace accessions from Jämtland, Sweden, a county centrally located, situated between Sweden and Norway. We found two main genetic clusters, one associated with the main agricultural district around lake Storsjön and one in the peripheral areas. Data was also compared with genotypes from landraces from across the Scandinavian peninsula. Accessions from the peripheral part of Jämtland show genetic similarity to accessions from a large part of central Scandinavia, while the accessions from the Storsjön district are more differentiated. We suggest that these dissimilarities in genetic diversity distribution are explained by differences in the relative importance of agriculture and trading. We further compared the historical material with ex situ preserved extant landraces from the same region and found that their genetic diversity was not always representative of the given provenience. The historical material, in contrast, proved particularly valuable for assessing how crop genetic diversity has historically been influenced by economic focus.
Effects of Tip Leakage Flow on the Aerodynamic Performance and Stability of an Axial-Flow Transonic Compressor Stage
Authors: Zhang Botao , Mao Xiaochen , Wu Xiaoxiong , Liu Bo
Published: July 2021

To explain the effect of tip leakage flow on the performance of an axial-flow transonic compressor, the compressors with different rotor tip clearances were studied numerically. The results show that as the rotor tip clearance increases, the leakage flow intensity is increased, the shock wave position is moved backward, and the interaction between the tip leakage vortex and shock wave is intensified, while that between the boundary layer and shock wave is weakened. Most of all, the stall mechanisms of the compressors with varying rotor tip clearances are different. The clearance leakage flow is the main cause of the rotating stall under large rotor tip clearance. However, the stall form for the compressor with half of the designed tip clearance is caused by the joint action of the rotor tip stall caused by the leakage flow spillage at the blade leading edge and the whole blade span stall caused by the separation of the boundary layer of the rotor and the stator passage. Within the investigated varied range, when the rotor tip clearance size is half of the design, the compressor performance is improved best, and the peak efficiency and stall margin are increased by 0.2% and 3.5%, respectively.
Assessing the Cost of Biomass and Bioenergy Production in Agroindustrial Processes
Authors: Martinez-Hernandez Elias , Amezcua-Allieri Myriam A. , Aburto Jorge
Published: July 2021

This paper presents bioenergy value chain modelling to estimate the biomass and bioenergy cost of production and biomass netback in combined heat and power (CHP) systems. Modelling compares biomass cost and netback to analyse the feasibility of CHP systems, as well as the internal rate of return (IRR) and payback period (PBP). Models are implemented into the IMP Bio2Energy® software (Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo, Mexico City, Mexico) for practical application and demonstrated for bioenergy generation in the agroindustrial processes of tequila production, coffee and orange processing using as biomass the agave bagasse, coffee pulp and orange peels coproducts, respectively. Results show that the CHP systems are economically feasible, i.e., biomass cost of production is lower than netback, PBP between 3 and 4 years and IRR > 20%. The cost of bioenergy is lower than the cost of fuel oil and grid electricity being replaced. The sensitivity analysis for boiler steam pressure showed that there is an optimal pressure for coffee pulp (40 bar), a threshold pressure for orange (60 bar) and agave bagasse (70 bar). Sensitivity to biomass input indicated a maximum capacity where economy of scale does not produce any improvement in the indicators. Results demonstrate the usefulness of the modelling approach and IMP Bio2Energy® in analysing biomass CHP systems.
Modeling and Analysis of Heat Dissipation for Liquid Cooling Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Duan Jiabin , Zhao Jiapei , Li Xinke , Panchal Satyam , Yuan Jinliang , Fraser Roydon , Fowler Michael
Published: July 2021

To ensure optimum working conditions for lithium-ion batteries, a numerical study is carried out for three-dimensional temperature distribution of a battery liquid cooling system in this work. The effect of channel size and inlet boundary conditions are evaluated on the temperature field of the battery modules. Based on the thermal behavior of discharging battery obtained experimental measurements, two temperature control strategies are proposed and studied. The results show that the channel width of the cooling plates has a great influence on the maximum temperature in the battery module. It is also revealed that increasing inlet water flow rate can significantly improve the heat transfer capacity of the battery thermal management system, while the relationship between them is not proportional. Lowering the inlet temperature can reduce the maximum temperature predicted in the battery module significantly. However, this will also lead to additional energy consumed by the cooling system. It is also found that the Scheme 5 among various temperature control strategies can ensure the battery pack working in the best temperature range in different depths of discharge. Compared with the traditional one with a given flow rate, the parasitic energy consumption in Scheme 5 can be reduced by around 80%.
Sometimes It’s Personal: Differential Outcomes of Person vs. Job at Risk Threats to Job Security
Authors: Carusone Nicole , Pittman Rebecca , Shoss Mindy
Published: July 2021

The current paper expands an under-addressed concept within the job insecurity literature, namely, whether threats to job security are specific to the jobholder (person-at-risk threats) or specific to the job (job-at-risk threats). Using a between-person experimental vignette design, 136 employed participants were asked to imagine themselves in either a Person-at-Risk or a Job-at-Risk scenario. As expected, participants in a person-at-risk scenario indicated more negative reactions to job insecurity, as captured by greater anticipated negative affect and poorer perceived social exchanges and organization-based self-esteem. They also reported reduced intention for interpersonal citizenship behavior and greater intention to engage in one form of impression management compared to individuals in a job-at-risk scenario. We interpret these findings in terms of their implications on individual versus group identity, as well as on well-being and the behavioral consequences of job insecurity.
Crime Risk Stations: Examining Spatiotemporal Influence of Urban Features through Distance-Aware Risk Signal Functions
Authors: Hakyemez Tugrul Cabir , Badur Bertan
Published: July 2021

Static indicators may fail to capture spatiotemporal differences in the spatial influence of urban features on different crime types. In this study, with a base station analogy, we introduced crime risk stations that conceptualize the spatial influence of urban features as crime risk signals broadcasted throughout a coverage area. We operationalized these risk signals with two novel risk scores, risk strength and risk intensity, obtained from novel distance-aware risk signal functions. With a crime-specific spatiotemporal approach, through a spatiotemporal influence analysis we examined and compared these risk scores for different crime types across various spatiotemporal models. Using a correlation analysis, we examined their relationships with concentrated disadvantage. The results showed that bus stops had relatively lower risk intensity, but higher risk strength, while fast-food restaurants had a higher risk intensity, but a lower risk strength. The correlation analysis identified elevated risk intensity and strength around gas stations in disadvantaged areas during late-night hours and weekends. The results provided empirical evidence for a dynamic spatial influence that changes across space, time, and crime type. The proposed risk functions and risk scores could help in the creation of spatiotemporal crime hotspot maps across cities by accurately quantifying crime risk around urban features.
Modeling and Performance Optimization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Channels in Urban Emergency Management
Authors: Han Bing , Qin Danyang , Zheng Ping , Ma Lin , Teklu Merhawit Berhane
Published: July 2021

With the development of smart cities, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for interactive information exchange between air and ground can provide effective support for the deployment of emergency work. However, the existing UAV air-to-ground channels often use a single channel model. Considering that the density and distribution of obstructions on information transmission paths at different heights are different, only using a single channel model greatly affects the reliability of communications. Aiming at addressing the different channel characteristics of air-to-ground channels at different heights, a height-based adaptive SUUL-SULA channel model is proposed in this paper. Firstly, in the ultra-low altitude environment, the influence of large-scale fading and small-scale fading on the envelope of the received signal is discussed based on the classic LOO model, and the probability density function and bit error rate model of the received signal are derived. Secondly, a SULA channel model based on Jakes’ model is proposed in the low-altitude environment. The uniform circular array beamforming technology is adopted to realize the design of the Doppler frequency shift compensation algorithm. Finally, the simulation results show that the SUUL-SULA model effectively reduces the bit error rate of the system and improves the reliability of communication. Therefore, this model can provide effective physical support for the application of UAV in smart city emergency management.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Pedestrian Flow Patterns in Urban POIs—An Example from Beijing
Authors: Li Yihang , Xu Liyan
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is a major challenge for society as a whole, and analyzing the impact of the spread of the epidemic and government control measures on the travel patterns of urban residents can provide powerful help for city managers to designate top-level epidemic prevention policies and specific epidemic prevention measures. This study investigates whether it is more appropriate to use groups of POIs with similar pedestrian flow patterns as the unit of study rather than functional categories of POIs. In this study, we analyzed the hour-by-hour pedestrian flow data of key locations in Beijing before, during, and after the strict epidemic prevention and control period, and we found that the pedestrian flow patterns differed greatly in different periods by using a composite clustering index; we interpreted the clustering results from two perspectives: groups of pedestrian flow patterns and functional categories. The results show that depending on the specific stage of epidemic prevention and control, the number of unique pedestrian flow patterns decreased from four before the epidemic to two during the strict control stage and then increased to six during the initial resumption of work. The restrictions on movement are correlated with most of the visitations, and the release of restrictions led to an increase in the variety of unique pedestrian flow patterns compared to that in the pre-restriction period, even though the overall number of visitations decreased, indicating that social restrictions led to differences in the flow patterns of POIs and increased social distance.
Somatic Mutations in Circulating Cell-Free DNA and Risk for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Hispanics
Authors: Jiao Jingjing , Sanchez Jessica I. , Thompson Erika J. , Mao Xizeng , McCormick Joseph B. , Fisher-Hoch Susan P. , Futreal P. Andrew , Zhang Jianhua , Beretta Laura
Published: July 2021

Hispanics are disproportionally affected by liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Advanced liver fibrosis is a major risk factor for HCC development. We aimed at identifying somatic mutations in plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) of Hispanics with HCC and Hispanics with advanced liver fibrosis but no HCC. Targeted sequencing of over 262 cancer-associated genes identified nonsynonymous mutations in 22 of the 27 HCC patients. Mutations were detected in known HCC-associated genes (e.g., CTNNB1, TP53, NFE2L2, and ARID1A). No difference in cfDNA concentrations was observed between patients with mutations and those without detectable mutations. HCC patients with higher cfDNA concentrations or higher number of mutations had a shorter overall survival (p < 0.001 and p = 0.045). Nonsynonymous mutations were also identified in 17 of the 51 subjects with advanced liver fibrosis. KMT2C was the most commonly mutated gene. Nine genes were mutated in both subjects with advanced fibrosis and HCC patients. Again, no significant difference in cfDNA concentrations was observed between subjects with mutations and those without detectable mutations. Furthermore, higher cfDNA concentrations and higher number of mutations correlated with a death outcome in subjects with advanced fibrosis. In conclusion, cfDNA features are promising non-invasive markers for HCC risk prediction and overall survival.
An Integrative Study of Aortic mRNA/miRNA Longitudinal Changes in Long-Term LVAD Support
Authors: Dlouha Dana , Ivak Peter , Netuka Ivan , Benesova Sarka , Tucanova Zuzana , Hubacek Jaroslav A.
Published: July 2021

Studying the long-term impact of continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) offers an opportunity for a complex understanding of the pathophysiology of vascular changes in aortic tissue in response to a nonphysiological blood flow pattern. Our study aimed to analyze aortic mRNA/miRNA expression changes in response to long-term LVAD support. Paired aortic samples obtained at the time of LVAD implantation and at the time of heart transplantation were examined for mRNA/miRNA profiling. The number of differentially expressed genes (Pcorr < 0.05) shared between samples before and after LVAD support was 277. The whole miRNome profile revealed 69 differentially expressed miRNAs (Pcorr < 0.05). Gene ontology (GO) analysis identified that LVAD predominantly influenced genes involved in the extracellular matrix and collagen fibril organization. Integrated mRNA/miRNA analysis revealed that potential targets of miRNAs dysregulated in explanted samples are mainly involved in GO biological process terms related to dendritic spine organization, neuron projection organization, and cell junction assembly and organization. We found differentially expressed genes participating in vascular tissue engineering as a consequence of LVAD duration. Changes in aortic miRNA levels demonstrated an effect on molecular processes involved in angiogenesis.
The Updating of Biological Functions of Methyltransferase SETDB1 and Its Relevance in Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma
Authors: Yuan Li , Sun Boshu , Xu Liangliang , Chen Limin , Ou Wenbin
Published: July 2021

SET domain bifurcated 1 (SETDB1) is a histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methyltransferase that exerts important effects on epigenetic gene regulation. SETDB1 complexes (SETDB1-KRAB-KAP1, SETDB1-DNMT3A, SETDB1-PML, SETDB1-ATF7IP-MBD1) play crucial roles in the processes of histone methylation, transcriptional suppression and chromatin remodelling. Therefore, aberrant trimethylation at H3K9 due to amplification, mutation or deletion of SETDB1 may lead to transcriptional repression of various tumour-suppressing genes and other related genes in cancer cells. Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide in which SETDB1 amplification and H3K9 hypermethylation have been indicated as potential tumourigenesis markers. In contrast, frequent inactivation mutations of SETDB1 have been revealed in mesothelioma, an asbestos-associated, locally aggressive, highly lethal, and notoriously chemotherapy-resistant cancer. Above all, the different statuses of SETDB1 indicate that it may have different biological functions and be a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target in lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Plant Parasites under Pressure: Effects of Abiotic Stress on the Interactions between Parasitic Plants and Their Hosts
Authors: Zagorchev Lyuben , Stöggl Wolfgang , Teofanova Denitsa , Li Junmin , Kranner Ilse
Published: July 2021

Parasitic angiosperms, comprising a diverse group of flowering plants, are partially or fully dependent on their hosts to acquire water, mineral nutrients and organic compounds. Some have detrimental effects on agriculturally important crop plants. They are also intriguing model systems to study adaptive mechanisms required for the transition from an autotrophic to a heterotrophic metabolism. No less than any other plant, parasitic plants are affected by abiotic stress factors such as drought and changes in temperature, saline soils or contamination with metals or herbicides. These effects may be attributed to the direct influence of the stress, but also to diminished host availability and suitability. Although several studies on abiotic stress response of parasitic plants are available, still little is known about how abiotic factors affect host preferences, defense mechanisms of both hosts and parasites and the effects of combinations of abiotic and biotic stress experienced by the host plants. The latter effects are of specific interest as parasitic plants pose additional pressure on contemporary agriculture in times of climate change. This review summarizes the existing literature on abiotic stress response of parasitic plants, highlighting knowledge gaps and discussing perspectives for future research and potential agricultural applications.
A Comparative Analysis of the In Vitro Anticancer Activity of Iridium(III) {η5-C5Me4R} Complexes with Variable R Groups
Authors: De Palo Alice , Draca Dijana , Murrali Maria Grazia , Zacchini Stefano , Pampaloni Guido , Mijatovic Sanja , Maksimovic-Ivanic Danijela , Marchetti Fabio
Published: July 2021

Piano-stool iridium complexes based on the pentamethylcyclopentadienyl ligand (Cp*) have been intensively investigated as anticancer drug candidates and hold much promise in this setting. A systematic study aimed at outlining the effect of Cp* mono-derivatization on the antiproliferative activity is presented here. Thus, the dinuclear complexes [Ir(η5-C5Me4R)Cl(μ-Cl)]2 (R = Me, 1a; R = H, 1b; R = Pr, 1c; R = 4-C6H4F, 1d; R = 4-C6H4OH, 1e), their 2-phenylpyridyl mononuclear derivatives [Ir(η5-C5Me4R)(kN,kCPhPy)Cl] (2a–d), and the dimethylsulfoxide complex [Ir{η5-C5Me4(4-C6H4OH)}Cl2(κS-Me2S=O)] (3) were synthesized, structurally characterized, and assessed for their cytotoxicity towards a panel of six human and rodent cancer cell lines (mouse melanoma, B16; rat glioma, C6; breast adenocarcinoma, MCF-7; colorectal carcinoma, SW620 and HCT116; ovarian carcinoma, A2780) and one primary, human fetal lung fibroblast cell line (MRC5). Complexes 2b (R = H) and 2d (4-C6H4F) emerged as the most active ones and were selected for further investigation. They did not affect the viability of primary mouse peritoneal cells, and their tumoricidal action arises from the combined influence on cellular proliferation, apoptosis and senescence. The latter is triggered by mitochondrial failure and production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
Effects of Delayed Mating on the Reproductive Performance of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (F.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Wang Ya-Ling , Jin Qi-Nian , Wang Xiang-Ping
Published: July 2021

Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (F.) is a serious pest of numerous solanaceous crops in many Asian countries. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of delayed mating on mating success, fecundity, fertility, pre-oviposition period, oviposition period, adult longevity, and population life table parameters (including net reproductive rate, intrinsic and finite rates of increase, doubling time, and mean generation time) of H. vigintioctopunctata. Beginning three days after emergence for both sexes, mating was delayed an additional 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 days. We compared the data when mating was delayed for males only with the data when mating was similarly delayed for females only. Reproductive and life table parameters were calculated from the two data sets and compared. The results showed that the preoviposition and oviposition period of adults was significantly reduced by delayed mating, while the preoviposition period was not significantly different in adults mated at older ages. The mating success rate, fecundity, and proportion of hatching eggs decreased with increasing mating age. Longevity was not affected by the age at mating. Mating delay also affected the life table parameters of H. vigintioctopunctata, with a similar trend observed in the net reproductive rate and intrinsic and finite rates of increase, all of which decreased gradually as the number of delay days increased. The population doubling time increased with increases in mating age. The results also showed that delayed mating was an effective measure to consider in controlling H. vigintioctopunctata. It is hoped that our data will provide a scientific basis and contribute technical guidance for forecasting and integrated management of this pest.
Inversion of Initial Field Based on a Temperature Transport Adjoint
Authors: Jiao Shengyi , Huang Shengmao , Wang Jianfeng , Lv Xianqing
Published: July 2021

The setting of initial values is one of the key problems in ocean numerical prediction, with the accuracy of sea water temperature (SWT) simulation and prediction greatly affected by the initial field quality. In this paper, we describe the development of an adjoint assimilation model of temperature transport used to invert the initial temperature field by assimilating the observed data of sea surface temperature (SST) and vertical temperature. Two ideal experiments were conducted to verify the feasibility and validity of this method. By assimilating the “observed data”, the mean absolute error (MAE) between the simulated temperature data and the “observed data” decreased from 1.74 °C and 1.87 °C to 0.13 °C and 0.14 °C, respectively. The spatial distribution of SST difference and the comparison of vertical data also indicate that the regional error of vertical data assimilation is smaller. In the practical experiment, the monthly average temperature field provided by World Ocean Atlas 2018 was selected as background filed and optimized by assimilating the SST data and Argo vertical temperature observation data, to invert the temperature field at 0 a.m. on 1 December 2014 in the South China Sea. Through data assimilation, MAE was reduced from 1.29 °C to 0.65 °C. In terms of vertical observations data comparison and SST spatial distribution, the temperature field obtained by inversion is in good agreement with SST and Argo observations.
Path Planning for Autonomous Ships: A Hybrid Approach Based on Improved APF and Modified VO Methods
Authors: Zhang Liang , Mou Junmin , Chen Pengfei , Li Mengxia
Published: July 2021

In this research, a hybrid approach for path planning of autonomous ships that generates both global and local paths, respectively, is proposed. The global path is obtained via an improved artificial potential field (APF) method, which makes up for the shortcoming that the typical APF method easily falls into a local minimum. A modified velocity obstacle (VO) method that incorporates the closest point of approach (CPA) model and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), based on the typical VO method, can be used to get the local path. The contribution of this research is two-fold: (1) improvement of the typical APF and VO methods, making up for previous shortcomings, and integrated COLREGS rules and good seamanship, making the paths obtained more in line with navigation practice; (2) the research included global and local path planning, considering both the safety and maneuverability of the ship in the process of avoiding collision, and studied the whole process of avoiding collision in a relatively entirely way. A case study was then conducted to test the proposed approach in different situations. The results indicate that the proposed approach can find both global and local paths to avoid the target ship.
Healthy and Balanced Nutrition for Children through Physical Education Classes
Authors: Trigueros Rubén , González-Bernal Sergio , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Fuente-Anuncibay Raquel de la , Aguilar-Parra José M.
Published: July 2021

Introduction. In recent years, the rate of childhood obesity has been on the rise, currently standing at levels close to 20%. This means that one in five children is more likely to suffer from cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. Physical Education classes are therefore an ideal way to raise awareness among children and their families about healthy and balanced eating habits. Method. A total of 113 primary school students, aged 9–12 years, participated in the study. In order to analyze the data, a structural equation model (SEM) was used to analyze the influence between the variables. Results. The SEM results revealed that a controlling social context showed a negative prediction of psychological need satisfaction and a positive prediction of frustration. However, an autonomy supportive social context showed a negative prediction of psychological need satisfaction and a positive prediction of psychological need satisfaction. Frustration of psychological needs was negatively related to motivation, whereas satisfaction was positively related to motivation. In turn, motivation was positively related to each of the factors of the theory of planned behaviour. Finally, intention to follow a healthy diet was positively related to the Mediterranean diet. Discussion. These results revealed the importance of social context and physical education classes in the adoption of a balanced diet.
Evaluating Elastic-Plastic Wavy and Spherical Asperity-Based Statistical and Multi-Scale Rough Surface Contact Models with Deterministic Results
Authors: Chu Nolan Ryan , Jackson Robert L. , Wang Xianzhang , Gangopadhyay Arup , Ghaednia Hamed
Published: July 2021

The solution to an elastic-plastic rough surface contact problem can be applied to phenomena such as friction and contact resistance. Many different types of models have therefore been developed to solve rough surface contact. A deterministic approach may accurately describe the entire surface, but the computing time is too long for practical use. Thus, mathematically abbreviated models have been developed to describe rough surface contact. Many popular models employ a statistical methodology to solve the contact problem, and they borrow the solution for spherical or parabolic contact to represent individual asperities. However, it is believed that a sinusoidal geometry may be a more realistic asperity representation. This has been applied to a newer version of the stacked multiscale model and statistical models. While no single model can accurately describe every contact problem better than any other, this work aims to help establish guidelines that determine the best model to solve a rough surface contact problem by applying mathematical and deterministic models to two reference surfaces in contact with a rigid flat. The discrepancies and similarities form the basis of those guidelines.
Adhesion of Resin-Resin and Resin–Lithium Disilicate Ceramic: A Methodological Assessment
Authors: Guggenbühl Simon , Alshihri Abdulmonem , Al-Haj Husain Nadin , Özcan Mutlu
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate four test methods on the adhesion of resin composite to resin composite, and resin composite to glass ceramic. Resin composite specimens (N = 180, Quadrant Universal LC) were obtained and distributed randomly to test the adhesion of resin composite material and to ceramic materials (IPS e.max CAD) using one of the four following tests: (a) Macroshear SBT: (n = 30), (b) macrotensile TBT: (n = 30), (c) microshear µSBT: (n = 30) and (d) microtensile µTBT test (n = 6, composite-composite:216 sticks, ceramic-composite:216 sticks). Bonded specimens were stored for 24 h at 23 °C. Bond strength values were measured using a universal testing machine (1 mm/min), and failure types were analysed after debonding. Data were analysed using Univariate and Tukey’s, Bonneferroni post hoc test (α = 0.05). Two-parameter Weibull modulus, scale (m), and shape (0) were calculated. Test method and substrate type significantly affected the bond strength results, as well as their interaction term (p < 0.05). Resin composite to resin composite adhesion using SBT (24.4 ± 5)a, TBT (16.1 ± 4.4)b and µSBT (20.6 ± 7.4)a,b test methods presented significantly lower mean bond values (MPa), compared to µTBT (36.7 ± 8.9)b (p < 0.05). When testing adhesion of glass ceramics to resin composite, µSBT (6.6 ± 1)B showed the lowest and µTBT (24.8 ± 7)C,D the highest test values (MPa) (SBT (14.6 ± 5)A,D and TBT (19.9 ± 5)A,B) (p < 0.05). Resin composite adhesion to ceramic vs. resin composite did show significant difference for the test methods SBT and µTBT (resin composite (24.4 ± 5; 36.7 ± 9 MPa) vs. glass ceramic (14.6 ± 5; 25 ± 7 MPa)) (p > 0.05). Among substrate–test combinations, Weibull distribution presented the highest shape values for ceramic–resin in µSBT (7.6) and resin–resin in µSBT (5.7). Cohesive failures in resin–resin bond were most frequently observed in SBT (87%), followed by TBT (50%) and µSBT (50%), while mixed failures occurred mostly in ceramic–resin bonds in the SBT (100%), TBT (90%), and µSBT (90%) test types. According to Weibull modulus, failure types, and bond strength, µTBT tests might be more reliable for testing resin-based composites adhesion to resin, while µSBT might be more suitable for adhesion testing of resin-based composites to ceramic materials.
Prediction Model for Compressive Strength of Porous Concrete with Low-Grade Recycled Aggregate
Authors: Liu Junshi , Ren Fumin , Quan Hongzhu
Published: July 2021

As the first batch of products after the resource utilization of construction and demolition waste, low-grade recycled aggregate (RA) has not been fully utilized, which hinders the development of the comprehensive recycling industry of construction waste. Therefore, this paper studies the mechanical properties of porous concrete (POC) with low-grade RA. An improved relationship between porosity and compressive strength of brittle, porous materials is used to express the compressive strength of POC with recycled aggregate (RPOC), and the prediction for compressive strength of porous concrete with low-grade RA is constructed by analyzing the mechanism of compressive damage. The results show: the compressive strength of porous concrete decreases with the addition of low-grade recycled aggregate, but the effect is not obvious when the replacement rate is less than 25%. The error range of the relationship between porosity and compressive strength of RPOC is basically within 15% after improvement. The prediction model for compressive strength based on the ideal sphere model of aggregate can accurately reflect the compressive strength of porous concrete with low-grade RA. The results of this study can provide a reference for the staff to learn about the functional characteristics of recycled products in advance and provide security for the actual project.
Analysis of the Well-Being Levels of Students in Spain and Finland through Interval Multiobjective Linear Programming
Authors: González-Gallardo Sandra , Ruiz Ana B. , Luque Mariano
Published: July 2021

To study the reasons of the low academic performance of students in Spain, authorities must consider emotional dimensions, such as well-being, which directly affect their learning achievement. Furthermore, it would be interesting to compare Spanish students with students from Finland, which stand out in international rankings. We analyze how to promote students’ well-being in Spain as a mechanism to enhance their academic achievement. Using data from PISA 2018, four indicators are used to measure well-being according to variables describing the students’ context. By means of econometric techniques, interval multiobjective linear programming problems are formulated for Spain and Finland and solved through a new methodological scheme proposed in this paper, assuring the generation of possibly and necessarily efficient solutions in interval multiobjective linear programming. The purpose is to determine which aspects would allow the best possible well-being to be reached. We found several differences between the students achieving optimal compromise levels in each country, and we analyzed how the improvement of one indicator might affect the remaining aspects of well-being. Spanish students can further enhance their well-being compared to Finnish students. Furthermore, the lowest improvement rate is associated with the bullying index, especially in Finland, highlighting the need to promote anti-bullying measures.