bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Web Service Discovery Method Combining Semantic Interface Similarity and Context Similarity
Authors: Lu Chenghua
Published: March 2021

Web service discovery is to find the most relevant services to satisfy the requester queries by means of similarity matching between Web services and a service requirement. We propose a novel Web service discovery method based on semantic similarity measure combing I/O similarity and context similarity. A new similarity measurement between terms is put forward as the basis of Web service similarity. Similarity between terms is represented by the similarity of two concepts containing them, and is calculated by means of the length of the shortest path between two concepts. Three kinds of linked relations are considered, i.e. ISA, HASA and antonymy relations. The experiments demonstrate that the proposed approach can improve the accuracy of concept similarity measure. Service discovery based on the similarity measure has better query performance than previous discovery methods in the precision, recall and F-measure.
Channel Fingerprint Packet Authentication Method Based on Edge Computing Cooperation
Authors: Xu Aidong , Zhang Tengyue , Yang Qicong , Jiang Yixin , Zhang Yunan
Published: March 2021

With the emergence of various low-latency application scenarios in the Internet of things (IoT), edge computing provides a series of low-latency computing modes such as real-time data processing and real-time decision-making, supports multiple terminals, and solves the problems of the existing cloud computing architecture. This paper proposes a channel fingerprint data packet authentication method based on edge computing cooperation. The edge server and smart terminal perform cooperative computing, make full use of the computing power of the smart terminal, reasonably allocate the amount of computing tasks, and effectively realize lightweight data packet authentication. The task running time is shortened and the authentication efficiency is improved.
Reform and Practice of Web Design and Production based on OBE Concept in the Context of New Engineering
Authors: Guo En , Xu Weizhi , Yu Hui , Zhong Yujie
Published: March 2021

In this paper, based on the characteristics of web design and facture course, from the course introduction, teaching existence question analysis, training mode reform aspects and so on three aspects to illustrate how to improve the teaching effect of this course, and to explore the concept of how to use the OBE complete curriculum reform in teaching practice, thus improve the computer professional and visual communication professional social practice ability of students, in order to conform to the demand of the current web design position.
Design of BearPi-Based Waste Bin With the Functions of Speech-Controlled Classification and Locating
Authors: Xiong Yuxiang , Shen Jie , Zhou Tianhong
Published: March 2021

To solve the current problems of waste classification and littering, this kind of BearPi-based waste bin with the functions of speech-controlled classification and locating is invented using the technologies of speech recognition and GPS. The device, with BearPi as its core element, uses solar panels and lithium batteries as power supply, IIC and serial interfaces for the respective control of PCA9685 steering gear driving board, an M5310_A communication module, ATGM332D locating module and SX-ASR-B speech recognition module, and finally, a GPIO and timer for the operation of the HC-SR04 module and an E18-D80NK photoelectric sensor. The devices could classify the waste through speech recognition or leave it for the users. Furthermore, it could detect the remaining capacity and location of the waste bins through the modules and update the cloud data for the users’ convenience in finding and using.
Study on the Effect of Different Starting Conditions on the Load of Freight Ropeway Working-rope
Authors: Ge Zhaojun , Li Ming , Qin Jian , Qiao Liang
Published: March 2021

In order to study the structural performance of freight ropeway under the influence of dynamic factors, a method for dynamic analysis and calculation of freight ropeway is proposed. Based on the theory of finite particle method, this method gives the expressions of the interaction force between the carrying rope and running trolley, and the haulage rope and running trolley. The motion equations of the particle of the carrying rope, traction rope and running trolley are established respectively, and the coupling force calculation of the carrying rope and traction rope is realized. The influence of load quality, starting speed and starting position on the tension of working-rope of freight ropeway is analysed with the proposed calculation method, which can provide more scientific and reasonable reference for the design of freight ropeway.
Research on Real-time Tree Barrier Measurement System Based on Three Dimensional Lidar
Authors: Zhang Ying , Liao Ruchao , Chen Yun , Yuan Xinxing , Kang Taizhong
Published: March 2021

Removing dangerous tree barrier is an important condition to ensure the safe operation of transmission line. A tree barrier measurement technology based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is proposed in this paper. The technology detects the tree barrier near the transmission line by carrying Three Dimensional (3D) Lidar and on-board computer, de-noises the data obtained during the scanning process, aggregates and classifies the tree barrier data model. Combined with tree barrier measurement algorithm, a real-time tree barrier measurement system and method are formed. Field experiments show that the system can effectively improve the accuracy and efficiency of traverse tree barrier measurement, which is conducive to the realization of information, intelligence and safety of transmission line inspection, and has practical application value for the safe operation of the line.
Spatial-Temporal Characteristics of UK—Commonwealth of Nations’ Trade and its Impact on the UK’s Economic Growth
Authors: Liu Shuguang , Xu Yujie , Shang Yingshi , Wang Jiayi
Published: March 2021

This paper analyzes the trade between the UK and Commonwealth of nations from the perspective of time and space .We use a detailed trade data to analyze the volume and structural change of trade in the 21st century, the findings show that the trade volume of goods between the UK and the Commonwealth is only 8.27% of the UK’s total foreign trade of goods, the degree of closeness and dependence of trade show a decreasing trend, and the bilateral trade shows significant spatial differences. Then we use vector auto-regressive model to analyze the impact of the UK’s trade with the Commonwealth on its economy and there exists a long-term stable trend. Trade shock has a positive effect on the UK’s economic growth.
The Influence of Load on the Vibration and Noise Characteristics of Transformer
Authors: Zhao Lihua , Xu Li , Liu Jianben , Liu Yan , Ren Junwen , Ning Wenjun , Huang Xiaolong
Published: March 2021

In order to further understand and grasp the impact of load on the vibration and noise characteristics of the transformer, this article analyzes the impact of load factors, power factor, harmonic current, three-phase unbalance and other load factors on transformer vibration and noise from the perspective of transformer vibration mechanism. A 10kV/200kVA three-phase oil-immersed distribution transformer was used as the object. Experiments were conducted to study the changes in the spectrum distribution, noise intensity and A-weighted sound pressure level of the transformer vibration and noise under the influence of different load factors. The results show that: when the frequency increases, the amplitude of the 100Hz fundamental frequency in the vibration noise signal increases, and the noise level increases accordingly; when the power factor increases, the amplitude of the odd frequency components in the vibration noise signal gradually decreases with the increase of the power factor. There is no obvious fluctuation in amplitude except 100Hz. When the harmonic current and the three-phase are unbalanced, the spectral components become complicated and accompanied by a large number of odd-order frequency multiplication components. With the increase of harmonic content, the amplitude of vibration noise signal and A-weighted sound pressure level increase significantly; the degree of unbalance and the occurrence of unbalance have a greater impact on the amplitude of vibration noise signal and A-weighted sound pressure level. The research in this paper provides a reference for the noise suppression of power equipment and the fault diagnosis technology based on vibration and noise signals.
Modelling the Biogas Production Kinetics of Anionic Surfactants Exposed Anaerobic Fermentation Process Using Sigmoidal Growth Functions
Authors: Zhang Huayong , An Di , Tian Yonglan , Li Ying
Published: March 2021

The kinetics of biogas production on anaerobic fermentation with anionic surfactants added was evaluated using the sigmoidal models (the modified Gompertz and Logistic). The mesophilic anaerobic co-fermentation experiments under different anionic surfactants concentrations were conducted with mixed cow dung and corn straw as feedstocks. The results showed that the anionic surfactants in appropriate concentrations on anaerobic fermentation increased the cumulative biogas yields while prolonged the lag phase time. The modified Logistic model performed better than modified Gompertz model in fitting the experimental results of anaerobic co-fermentation with anionic surfactants added. The results of this study were expected to provide theoretical guidance for studying the impact of anionic surfactants and modelling the kinetic process of anaerobic co-fermentation.
A Comparative Study of Various Flow Instability Criteria in Processing Map of the Powder Metallurgy High Speed Steel
Authors: Liu Zhaozhao , Wang Miao , Liu Yanhui
Published: March 2021

The deformation behavior of the 1.15C-4.00Cr-3.00V-6.00W-5.00Mo powder metallurgy high speed steel in hot working processes was investigated by the isothermal compression tests carried out at the temperature of 1000-1150°C and the strain rate of 0.001-1.0s−1 with the height reduction of 60%. The processing maps were constructed, identification of the instability regions and optimization of hot deformation parameters. Different types of instability criteria of PRASAD, MALAS, GEGEL, MURTY and SEMIATIN were compared. It was found that the hot working process of the steel can be carried out safely in the domain of 1040-1130 °C/0.01-1.0 s−1. Furthermore, the temperature and the strain rate had a great effect on microstructures. To obtain a homogeneous microstructure with fine grain, the hot working process should be carried out under the condition of 1050-1100 °C/0.01-0.06 s−1.
Research on the Interaction of Environmental Factors in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area Based on the Two-layer Network System Dynamics Model
Authors: Cheng Qingya , Long Zhengwu , Li Zhi
Published: March 2021

This paper takes the ecological security of the Chongqing Three Gorges Reservoir area as the research object, establishes five subsystems of policy, population, water environment, economy, and biology, and uses the analytic network process to calculate the impact weights of different indicators in each layer of the system. The results show that the weight of the water environment indicator layer is the largest, and other indicators have varying degrees of impact on ecological security. On this basis, construct a system dynamics model, select the main constraints of environmental factors in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, set three different development scenarios, and observe their impact on CODcr And determine the range of ecological safety thresholds.
Design and Implementation of Brightness Configurable Bi-Histogram Equalization Based on FPGA
Authors: Wang Zhaolin , Yue Hongju , Wang Jun , Tao Huibin , Wang Li
Published: March 2021

In order to improve the contrast of images in different brightness environments, based on brightness preserving Bi-Histogram Equalization(BBHE), a Brightness configurable Bi-Histogram Equalization(BCBHE) system is proposed and implemented by FPGA in this paper. The system implements the BBHE algorithm, and adds the brightness configurable logic unit to realize the brightness configurable image contrast enhancement. The test results of the video processing platform of Genesys 2 development board show that: the design obtains BBHE images with different brightness configurations, and achieves the best contrast enhancement visual effect by setting image brightness threshold in different field environment. At the same time, based on the parallel operation characteristics of the FPGA, it meets the requirements of real-time image processing.
Ballistic Target Translation Compensation Based on Corner Detection Algorithm
Authors: Li Yuxi , Li Jiang , Liu Fengkai
Published: March 2021

During the mid-flight of the ballistic target, there are two movement modes: translational and micro-movement. The existence of translation will cause tilt and translation of the time-frequency curve of the scatter point echo, which will affect the extraction of ballistic missile micro-motion information. In response to this problem, this paper proposes a Shi-Tomasi corner detection algorithm from the perspective of image processing, which can effectively extract the corner information in the image. Afterwards, regression analysis is performed according to the obtained corner point information to realize the estimation of translational parameters. Through simulation experiments, it is concluded that the algorithm can better realize the compensation of translational components.
Application of Interpolated Loop Subdivision Mesh Deformation in Ecological Environment Animation
Authors: Zeng Shuzhen , Shi Zhuo , Feng Ye , Li Mingrui , Wang Meng , Shen Jing
Published: March 2021

In 3D computer vision processing, the introduction of deep learning into 3D research has always attracted much attention. In this paper, we introduce 3D mesh deformation into the animation of ecological environment research, adopt the 3D processing tool of Pytorch3D, and propose a 3D mesh deformation method based on the interpolation Loop subdivision. To prove the superiority of this algorithm, we compare the mesh deformation under the Loop subdivision and interpolation Loop subdivision. The experimental results show that after we adopted the interpolation Loop subdivision when the mesh deformation predicts the target mesh, the result of the deformation mesh is better than the Loop subdivision in terms of details. Thus, mesh deformation can be applied in the animation of the ecological environment, such as the “camouflage” of animals, which is of great significance to the animation or film related to the ecological environment.
Research on the Influence of Herders on the Response Behavior of Grassland Ecological Compensation Policy
Authors: Ping Lihua , Ma Jun
Published: March 2021

This paper uses the survey data of 344 herdsmen in Xianghuang Banner, Siziwang Banner, and Alxa Left Banner that implement grassland ecological compensation policy in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, combined with the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLA), and quantitatively analyzes the response of all aspects of livelihood capital to herders based on the SEM model the impact of grassland ecological compensation policy behavior. The government should proceed from the difference of each livelihood capital, combine the economic benefits of herders with the response to the grassland ecological compensation policy, and put forward policy improvement opinions based on the livelihoods of herders, with a view to improving the pastoralism for the government. The enthusiasm of households to respond to the policy provides a scientific basis for achieving the strategic goal of grassland ecological compensation.
Research on Key Technologies of City Information Modeling
Authors: Wang Baoling , Tian Yuan
Published: March 2021

In order to solve urban development problems and achieve sustainable urban development, building smart cities has become an essential core concept for urban development in the world today. From the perspective of current smart city needs, this article introduces the concept and basic characteristics of CIM, an information technology closely related to smart cities, and analyzes its key technologies BIM (Building Information Modeling), GIS (Geographic Information System), IOT (The Internet of Things), and a brief overview of the relationship between the three, laid a preliminary foundation for further related research.
Behaviour of hybrid blend Composite Materials Reinforced by Aluminium Nanoparticles and Glass Fibres
Authors: Rajab Mustafa A. , Salman Salem F. , Abbas Mohammad K.
Published: March 2021

This research aims to study the effect of glass fibres and aluminium nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of composite materials containing epoxy resins and phenol formaldehyde in different proportions. The results showed that adding phenol formaldehyde to epoxy in a ratio of (10/90) improved the properties, and that reinforcement with glass fibres and aluminium nanoparticles increased the use of these materials by increasing their applications through the possibility of replacing the basin liner with paint. Composite materials used in the research. Compounds are common and used in almost every field, and the idea for reinforcement is to improve the properties of the compounds.
An analytical approach of the chromaticity correction for compact hadron river
Authors: Wah Leo Kwee , Takayama Ken , Adachi Toshikazu , Kawakubo Tadamichi , Dixit Tanuja
Published: March 2021

A design of a compact hadron driver for future cancer therapies based on the induction synchrotron concept is given. In order to realize a slow extraction technique in a fast cycling synchrotron, which allows the energy sweep beam scanning, the zero momentum-dispersion D(s) region and high flat D(s) region are necessary. The present design lattice which meets both requirements. In this study, details of the lattice parameters is introduced and an analytical solution for chromaticity correction are described and discussed.
Two dimensional array of MPPC and CsI(Tl) for radiation monitoring prototype
Authors: Jasni A A , Yap YS , Hashim I H. , Ahmad N E , Ramlee N
Published: March 2021

An effcient radiation and position monitoring system is useful for preliminary security inspection and radiation emergency preparedness and response. A high sensitivity and effective monitoring system is needed for these applications. In this study, two position-sensitive prototypes were proposed by using of 8 Multi Pixel Photon Counters (MPPC) and coupled to the cesium iodide with Thallium (CsI(Tl)) scintillator. This inorganic scintillator was chosen for its output wavelength compatibility with MPPC, slightly hygroscopic, high photon transmission, and input energy. For both prototypes, eight MPPCs with di_erent con_gurations were used to obtain active areas of 2.0 × 2.4 cm2 and 2.5 × 4.5cm2, respectively. The prototype has been tested with radioactive (Tl-204 and Co-60). The intensity received by each MPPC’s readout will be recorded using Extended Analogue SiPM Integrated ReadOut Chip (EASIROC) module. Our test showed that both prototypes were sensitive to both beta and gamma sources and were able to reliably determine the sources’ positions. It was shown that the first prototype had greater resolution and performance than the second prototype. This studies may help to improve radiation detection system which is suitable for homeland security, medical field and scanning system.
NDT methods in inspecting road and highway structures
Authors: Amran T S T , Amin M S M , Ahmad M R , Azreen N M , Sani S , Adnan M A K , Razak N A , Sayuti S
Published: March 2021

This paper presents an overview of the non-destructive testing (NDT) methods that can be used to determine the quality and safety of road and highway structures in Malaysia. These NDT methods offer a relatively quick and inexpensive mean for regular inspection, which shall help alert the responsible agencies of critical structural damages even before heavy deterioration is visually apparent.
Ca2C MXene monolayer as a superior anode for metal-ion batteries
Authors: Rajput Kaptan , Kumar Vipin , Thomas Siby , Zaeem Mohsen Asle , Roy Debesh Ranjan
Published: March 2021

Rechargeable batteries can effectively mitigate the increasing crisis associated with clean energy storage technologies. The alkali metal-ion based rechargeable batteries require a low diffusion barrier, a low average open-circuit voltage (OCV), and a high storage capacity for their superior performance. Using comprehensive first-principle calculations, we demonstrate that calcium carbide monolayer (Ca2C-ML) MXene meets all the aforementioned criteria and is a superior anode material for lithium (Li), sodium (Na), and potassium (K) metal-ion batteries. By first-principles calculations, the structural and electronic properties of Ca2C-ML and its extensive ion battery applications are studied. The adsorption properties of Li, Na, and K alkali ions on the Ca2C-ML sheet confirm excellent charge transfer and electrical conductivity. The ultra-low diffusion barriers of 0.027, 0.059, and 0.028 eV for Li, Na, and K alkali ions, respectively, indicate the superior mobility and fast cycling caliber (metal adsorption and desorption) of the Ca2C-ML. The OCV of the Ca2C-ML is 0.10, 0.24, and 0.28 V for Li, Na, and K-ions, respectively, ensuring a better battery performance. The specific capacity of 582 mAh g−1 is achieved for all three cases, which is much higher than that of a traditional graphite anode with Li, Na, and K ions. The volume expansion during the intercalation is negligible for all three cases, indicating long term structural integrity of the anode using Ca2C-ML. Our investigations suggest that the newly designed 2D Ca2C-ML is a suitable anode candidate for use in the next-generation of high-performance Li, Na, and K-ion batteries.
Transfer of large-scale two-dimensional semiconductors: challenges and developments
Authors: Watson Adam J , Lu Wenbo , Guimarães Marcos H D , Stöhr Meike
Published: March 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) materials offer opportunities to explore both fundamental science and applications in the limit of atomic thickness. Beyond the prototypical case of graphene, other 2D materials have recently come to the fore. Of particular technological interest are 2D semiconductors, of which the family of materials known as the group-VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has attracted much attention. The presence of a bandgap allows for the fabrication of high on–off ratio transistors and optoelectronic devices, as well as valley/spin polarized transport. The technique of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has produced high-quality and contiguous wafer-scale 2D films, however, they often need to be transferred to arbitrary substrates for further investigation. In this review, the various transfer techniques developed for transferring 2D films will be outlined and compared, with particular emphasis given to CVD-grown TMDs. Each technique suffers undesirable process-related drawbacks such as bubbles, residue or wrinkles, which can degrade device performance by for instance reducing electron mobility. This review aims to address these problems and provide a systematic overview of key methods to characterize and improve the quality of the transferred films and heterostructures. With the maturing technological status of CVD-grown 2D materials, a robust transfer toolbox is vital.
Piezotronics enabled artificial intelligence systems
Authors: Hua Qilin , Cui Xiao , Ji Keyu , Wang Bingjun , Hu Weiguo
Published: March 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are accelerating the rapid innovations of multifunctional micro/nanosystems for boosting significant applications in flexible electronics, human healthcare, advanced robotics, autonomous control, and human–machine interfaces. III-nitride semiconductors, e.g. GaN, AlN, InN, and their alloys, exhibit superior device characteristics in high-performance opto-/electronics, due to the unique polarization effects in the non-central-symmetric crystal. Piezotronics, coupled with piezoelectric polarization and semiconductor properties, can provide a novel approach for controlling charge carrier transport across the interfacial Schottky barrier or p–n junction in these piezoelectric semiconductors. It means constructing a direct, real-time, seamless interaction between human/machine and environment, which indicates great potential in emerging AI systems. In this article, we review the research progress of piezotronics on III-nitride semiconductors, summarize the fundamental theory of piezotronics, illustrate flexible device process, present emerging piezotronic intelligent GaN-based devices, and provide innovative supports for building adaptive and interactive AI systems.
Backscatter and spontaneous four-wave mixing in micro-ring resonators
Authors: Hance Jonte R , Sinclair Gary F , Rarity John
Published: March 2021

We model backscatter for electric fields propagating through optical micro-ring resonators, as occurring both in-ring and in-coupler. These provide useful tools for modelling transmission and in-ring fields in these optical devices. We then discuss spontaneous four-wave mixing and use the models to obtain heralding efficiencies and rates. We observe a trade-off between these, which becomes more extreme as the rings become more strongly backscattered.
Turkey
Authors: van Overdijk Claire , Hatemi Hüseyin , Alper Gizem
Published: March 2021

The Republic of Turkey has a civil law system with an administrative, military, and judicial (civil and criminal) court structure and a separate constitutional court. These all function as courts of first instance in civil law matters. The highest court of appeal in the judicial court system is known as ‘Yargitay’.
Development Plans: Their Legal Significance After the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 introduced a sea change from the development plan system of the past. The new system provided for the replacement of the non-statutory regional guidance, structure plans, local plans, waste plans, mineral plans, and unitary development plans by regional spatial strategies and local development documents. As stated earlier, the Local Democracy Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 renamed the regional spatial strategies as regional strategies but basically retained the same system. The Localism Act 2011 has however swept away the whole system of regional strategies and regional authorities and replaced them simply with a duty on local authorities to co-operate.
Applications for Planning Permission 2: Procedure on Receipt of Applications by the Local Planning Authority
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

An application for planning permission is made to the authority with responsibility for determining the application. In the case of a non-metropolitan area with a two-tier division of planning responsibility, most applications fall to be determined by the district planning authority for the area in which the land is situated. If the application relates to a county matter, application must be made to the county planning authority for the area. In those areas where the local planning authority is a unitary authority, all applications are made to the unitary authority for the area. Section 1 of the Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013 has also provided applicants with the option of applying to the Secretary of State if a council has been designated as not performing adequately in determining applications.
5. Mass population movements and resettlement, 1965 to the present
Authors: Gerber David A.
Published: March 2021

After immigration law reform in 1965, vast numbers of immigrants, principally from Asia and Latin America, sought entry to the United States. Illegal immigration from Mexico increased dramatically after 1990. Conflicts across the globe increased the numbers of refugees and asylum seekers. This chapter compares and contrasts this wave of mass voluntary immigration with past waves. To the extent that mass migratory movements are the result of the spreading of modernizing processes across the globe, the purposes and structures of contemporary voluntary migrations are generally a variation on familiar historical themes, such as the network as the key to the organization of migration, now enhanced by new technologies, especially electronic media and jet air travel. With its laws encouraging family reconstitution, America remains an attractive destination in spite of the relative insecurity of contemporary job markets. To the extent destinations within the United States have proliferated, immigration has been nationalized.
Conclusion
Authors: Gerber David A.
Published: March 2021

Americans have built a global society whose peoples’ origins look much like the world. This is an observation made daily by international visitors for whom such symbolic locations at the crossroad of American diversity as New York City’s Times Square or the multicultural neighborhoods of big cities possess a cosmopolitan dynamism that seems uniquely American. At eye level these exciting manifestations of multicultural America are not easily forgotten, especially by those residing in more homogeneous societies....
Waging holy wars
Authors: Mitchell Jolyon , Rey Joshua
Published: March 2021

‘Raging holy wars’ examines holy wars, beginning with an analysis of the integration of war and religion in the ancient world. Is a particular holy war fought to achieve a religious goal, such as converts or possession of a holy place; or is the war a religious activity in itself? In classical civilizations, it has quite often been the latter. As one moves toward the modern world, with its more universal sense of religion, and a less total integration of religion into communal life, the former becomes more of a factor. Perhaps the most controversial way to raise this question is the case of jihad. The chapter then considers the crusades.
Sanctifying secular wars
Authors: Mitchell Jolyon , Rey Joshua
Published: March 2021

‘Sanctifying secular wars’ evaluates another category of religious wars: secular wars, in which religious commitment is used to pursue aims largely unrelated to religion. Shinto and Buddhism helped strengthen the Japanese war effort in the Second World War. But Japan fought a war of outward conquest. More often, when religion supports rather than motivates war, this is in situations where two religions, each related to a community more or less defined in other ways, collide. This dynamic can arguably be seen at work in Serbia during the Battle of Kosovo Polje (1389), in Northern Ireland, in Sudan, in the Biafra war in Nigeria (1967–70), and in Sri Lanka.
1. Whose virtues, which vices?
Authors: Boyd Craig A. , Timpe Kevin
Published: March 2021

This chapter provides an overview of the virtues. The virtues receive significant attention from philosophers such as Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas. The consensus across cultures and traditions is that a virtue is an excellent and stable quality of the soul that enables a person to act well regarding some kind of activity. That is, virtues are ‘good habits’. When thinking about the virtues, most people have in mind the moral virtues, but there are also intellectual and productive virtues. There are also characteristics that are marks of moral failure, such as dispositions to dishonesty, injustice, and greed. These dispositions to behave badly are the vices.
NOTCH signaling pathway is required for bovine early embryonic development
Authors: Li Shuang , Shi Yan , Dang Yanna , Luo Lei , Hu Bingjie , Wang Shaohua , Wang Huanan , Zhang Kun
Published: March 2021

The NOTCH signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating various biological processes, including lineage specification and apoptosis. Multiple components of the NOTCH pathway have been identified in mammalian preimplantation embryos. However, the precise role of the NOTCH pathway in early embryonic development is poorly understood, especially in large animals. Here, we show that the expression of genes encoding key transcripts of the NOTCH pathway is dynamic throughout early embryonic development. We also confirm the presence of active NOTCH1 and RBPJ. By using pharmacological and RNA interference tools, we demonstrate that the NOTCH pathway is required for the proper development of bovine early embryos. This functional consequence could be partly attributed to the major transcriptional mediator, Recombination Signal Binding Protein For Immunoglobulin Kappa J Region (RBPJ), whose deficiency also compromised the embryo quality. Indeed, both NOTCH1 and RBPJ knockdown cause a significant increase of histone H3 serine 10 phosphorylation (pH3S10, a mitosis marker) positive blastomeres, suggesting a cell cycle arrest at mitosis. Importantly, RNA sequencing analyses reveal that either NOTCH1 or RBPJ depletion triggers a reduction in H1FOO that encodes the oocyte-specific linker histone H1 variant. Interestingly, depleting H1FOO results in detrimental effects on the developmental competence of early embryos, similar with NOTCH1 inhibition. Overall, our results reveal a crucial role for NOTCH pathway in regulating bovine preimplantation development, likely by controlling cell proliferation and maintaining H1FOO expression.
Implementation of Two Chromatographic Methods for Simultaneous Quantitation of Thioctic Acid, Benfotiamine and Cyanocobalamin
Authors: Abbas Samah S , Badawey Amr M , Bakr Maryam A , Hegazy Maha A
Published: March 2021

Two accurate and sensitive chromatographic methods have been introduced and validated for the simultaneous determination of thioctic acid, benfotiamine and cyanocobalamin in bulk powders and in their pharmaceutical formulation. Method A is reversed-phase ultra performance liquid chromatographic method with an isocratic elution, where a rapid separation was accomplished on a Zorbax C8 column using a mobile phase of acetonitrile:0.05 M phosphate buffer (pH 6 adjusted by o-phosphoric acid) (23:77, v/v). The retention times (tR) were 0.578, 0.852 and 1.376 for cyanocobalamin, benfotiamine and thioctic acid, respectively. The separated peaks were revealed at 210.0 nm. Method B is a thin-layer densitometric method where the separation of the studied drugs was carried out on silica gel plates using methanol–chloroform–heptane-1-sulphonic acid sodium salt (0.4%) (7:3:0.1, by volume) as a mobile phase, and scanning of the separated bands was done at 240.0 nm. The retardation factor (Rf) values were 0.17, 0.48 and 0.75 for cyanocobalamin, benfotiamine and thioctic acid, respectively. Validation of the methods was achieved following ICH guidelines and the applied methods succeeded to determine the cited drugs in their pure forms and capsules. Results were statistically compared to the manufacturer’s method where no significant difference was observed.
Perianal Fistula-Associated Carcinoma in Crohn’s Disease: A Multicentre Retrospective Case Control Study
Authors: Palmieri Chiara , Müller Gerhard , Kroesen Anton J , Galata Christian , Rink Andreas D , Morgenstern Julia , Kruis Wolfgang
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Carcinoma associated with perianal fistula in Crohn’s disease is a pending threat for patients. This study aimed to improve understanding and facilitate development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted at four German hospitals. The analysis included 40 patients with proven malignancy associated with perianal Crohn’s fistulas and 40 randomly selected controls with fistulizing perianal Crohn’s disease. Differences between groups were analysed and multivariate calculations were performed to describe risk factors for oncological outcomes.

Results

Histology revealed adenocarcinoma in 33/40 patients and squamous cell carcinoma in 7/40 patients. Compared to fistula patients without carcinoma, patients with malignancies associated with fistula had a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease at younger age. Crohn’s disease lasted longer in patients with malignancy [25.8 ± 9.0 vs 19.6 ± 10.4; p = 0.006]. Fistula-related findings differed significantly between the two groups. Signs of complicated and severe fistulation including complex anatomy and chronic activity occurred significantly more often in patients with malignancy associated with fistula. Significant multivariate hazard ratios for overall mortality and progression-free survival were shown for histological type of cancer, metastatic disease and R1 resection. Overall survival was 45.1 ± 28.6 months and the 5-year survival rate was 65%.

Conclusions

In patients with adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma associated with perianal fistula in Crohn’s disease, fistula characteristics determine the risk of malignancy. Early diagnosis influences outcomes, while treatment of chronic fistula activity may be key to preventing malignancy. Expert multimodal therapy is paramount for successful treatment of perianal fistula-associated malignancies.
The impact of vascularized tissue flap coverage on aortic graft infection with and without infected graft excision
Authors: Shijo Takayuki , Matsuda Hitoshi , Yokawa Koki , Inoue Yosuke , Seike Yoshimasa , Uehara Kyokun , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Sasaki Hiroaki
Published: March 2021

OBJECTIVES

Aortic graft infection (AGI) is a serious condition associated with a high mortality rate. However, optimal surgical options have not been identified. Therefore, we retrospectively reviewed AGI cases, including those in the thoracic and abdominal regions, with or without fistula formation, to investigate the various options for better outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed 50 patients who underwent surgical interventions for AGI out of 97 patients with arterial infective disease. The mean patient age was 67 ± 17 years. Fourteen patients (28%) had a fistula with the gastrointestinal tract or lung. A combination of graft excision and vascularized tissue flap coverage was performed in 25 cases (50%). Tissue flap alone, graft excision alone and cleansing alone were performed in 9 (18%), 10 (20%), and 6 cases (12%), respectively.

RESULTS

Total in-hospital mortality rate was 32% (n = 16). In-hospital mortalities in patients with and without fistulas were 43% (6/14) and 28% (10/36), respectively (P = 0.33). Subgroup analysis among patients without fistula demonstrated that the in-hospital mortality rate of the patients with vascularized tissue flap (3/21, 14%) was significantly lower than that of the patients without vascularized tissue flap (7/14, 50%, P = 0.026). Overall 1- and 5-year survival rates were 66% and 46%, respectively. In multivariable analysis, an independent factor associated with in-hospital mortality was vascularized tissue flap (odds ratio 0.20, P = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Vascularized tissue flaps could provide better outcomes for AGI. Graft preservation with vascularized tissue flaps could be a useful option for AGI without fistula.
Detecting sex-linked genes using genotyped individuals sampled in natural populations
Authors: Käfer Jos , Lartillot Nicolas , Marais Gabriel A B , Picard Franck
Published: March 2021

We propose a method, SDpop, able to infer sex-linkage caused by recombination suppression typical of sex chromosomes. The method is based on the modeling of the allele and genotype frequencies of individuals of known sex in natural populations. It is implemented in a hierarchical probabilistic framework, accounting for different sources of error. It allows statistical testing for the presence or absence of sex chromosomes, and detection of sex-linked genes based on the posterior probabilities in the model. Furthermore, for gametologous sequences, the haplotype and level of nucleotide polymorphism of each copy can be inferred, as well as the divergence between them. We test the method using simulated data, as well as data from both a relatively recent and an old sex chromosome system (the plant Silene latifolia and humans) and show that, for most cases, robust predictions are obtained with 5 to 10 individuals per sex.
A chromosome-level genome assembly for the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Peñaloza Carolina , Gutierrez Alejandro P , Eöry Lél , Wang Shan , Guo Ximing , Archibald Alan L , Bean Tim P , Houston Ross D
Published: March 2021

Background

The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is a bivalve mollusc with vital roles in coastal ecosystems and aquaculture globally. While extensive genomic tools are available for C. gigas, highly contiguous reference genomes are required to support both fundamental and applied research. Herein we report the creation and annotation of a chromosome-level assembly for C. gigas.

Findings

High-coverage long- and short-read sequence data generated on Pacific Biosciences and Illumina platforms were used to generate an initial assembly, which was then scaffolded into 10 pseudo-chromosomes using both Hi-C sequencing and a high-density linkage map. The assembly has a scaffold N50 of 58.4 Mb and a contig N50 of 1.8 Mb, representing a step advance on the previously published C. gigas assembly. Annotation based on Pacific Biosciences Iso-Seq and Illumina RNA-Seq resulted in identification of ∼30,000 putative protein-coding genes. Annotation of putative repeat elements highlighted an enrichment of Helitron rolling-circle transposable elements, suggesting their potential role in shaping the evolution of the C. gigas genome.

Conclusions

This new chromosome-level assembly will be an enabling resource for genetics and genomics studies to support fundamental insight into bivalve biology, as well as for selective breeding of C. gigas in aquaculture.
Discovery and fine-mapping of kidney function loci in first genome-wide association study in Africans
Authors: Fatumo Segun , Chikowore Tinashe , Kalyesubula Robert , Nsubuga Rebecca N , Asiki Gershim , Nashiru Oyekanmi , Seeley Janet , Crampin Amelia C , Nitsch Dorothea , Smeeth Liam , Kaleebu Pontiano , Burgess Stephen , Nyirenda Moffat , Franceschini Nora , Morris Andrew P , Tomlinson Laurie , Newton Robert
Published: March 2021

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of kidney function have uncovered hundreds of loci, primarily in populations of European ancestry. We have undertaken the first continental African GWAS of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a measure of kidney function used to define chronic kidney disease (CKD). We conducted GWAS of eGFR in 3288 East Africans from the Uganda General Population Cohort (GPC) and replicated in 8224 African Americans from the Women’s Health Initiative. Loci attaining genome-wide significant evidence for association (P < 5 × 10−8) were followed up with Bayesian fine-mapping to localize potential causal variants. The predictive power of a genetic risk score (GRS) constructed from previously reported trans-ancestry eGFR lead single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) was evaluated in the Uganda GPC. We identified and validated two eGFR loci. At the glycine amidinotransferase (GATM) locus, the association signal (lead SNP rs2433603, P = 1.0 × 10−8) in the Uganda GPC GWAS was distinct from previously reported signals at this locus. At the haemoglobin beta (HBB) locus, the association signal (lead SNP rs141845179, P = 3.0 × 10−8) has been previously reported. The lead SNP at the HBB locus accounted for 88% of the posterior probability of causality after fine-mapping, but did not colocalise with kidney expression quantitative trait loci. The trans-ancestry GRS of eGFR was not significantly predictive into the Ugandan population. In the first GWAS of eGFR in continental Africa, we validated two previously reported loci at GATM and HBB. At the GATM locus, the association signal was distinct from that previously reported. These results demonstrate the value of performing GWAS in continental Africans, providing a rich genomic resource to larger consortia for further discovery and fine-mapping. The study emphasizes that additional large-scale efforts in Africa are warranted to gain further insight into the genetic architecture of CKD.
Pricing foreign exchange options under a hybrid Heston-Cox-Ingersoll-Ross model with regime switching
Authors: He Xin-Jiang , Chen Wenting
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the pricing of foreign exchange options is considered under a modified Heston–Cox–Ingersoll–Ross hybrid model. This modified model reserves all the characteristics of the Heston–Cox–Ingersoll–Ross model and also additionally assumes regime switching in the key parameters of the volatility as well as the domestic and foreign interest rates. Even though complicated, we have derived a closed-form pricing formula for foreign exchange options after the affinity of this new model is verified. Various properties of the newly derived formula are also shown through numerical experiments. To show the performance of this newly proposed model, an empirical study is also conducted, the result of which suggests that our model is a good alternative to the Heston–Cox–Ingersoll–Ross model for practical purpose.
Numerical analysis of a wave equation for lossy media obeying a frequency power law
Authors: Baker Katherine , Banjai Lehel
Published: March 2021

We study a wave equation with a nonlocal time fractional damping term that models the effects of acoustic attenuation characterized by a frequency-dependent power law. First we prove the existence of a unique solution to this equation with particular attention paid to the handling of the fractional derivative. Then we derive an explicit time-stepping scheme based on the finite element method in space and a combination of convolution quadrature and second-order central differences in time. We conduct a full error analysis of the mixed time discretization and in turn the fully space-time discretized scheme. Error estimates are given for both smooth solutions and solutions with a singularity at $t = 0$ of a type that is typical for equations involving fractional time derivatives. A number of numerical results are presented to support the error analysis.
Uniform Hölder-norm bounds for finite element approximations of second-order elliptic equations
Authors: Diening Lars , Scharle Toni , Süli Endre
Published: March 2021

We develop a discrete counterpart of the De Giorgi–Nash–Moser theory, which provides uniform Hölder-norm bounds on continuous piecewise affine finite element approximations of second-order linear elliptic problems of the form $-\nabla \cdot (A\nabla u)=f-\nabla \cdot F$ with $A\in L^\infty (\varOmega ; {{\mathbb{R}}}^{n\times n})$ a uniformly elliptic matrix-valued function, $f\in L^{q}(\varOmega )$, $F\in L^p(\varOmega ; {{\mathbb{R}}}^n)$, with $p> n$ and $q> n/2$, on $A$-nonobtuse shape-regular triangulations, which are not required to be quasi-uniform, of a bounded polyhedral Lipschitz domain $\varOmega \subset {{\mathbb{R}}}^n$.
Isolated Singularities of Solutions to the Yamabe Equation in Dimension 6
Authors: Xiong J , Zhang L
Published: March 2021

We study the asymptotic behavior of local solutions to the Yamabe equation near an isolated singularity, when the metric is not conformally flat. We prove that, in dimension 6, any solution is asymptotically close to a Fowler solution, which is an extension of the same result for lower dimensions by F.C. Marques in 2008.