bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperpigmented melanistic skin lesions of smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu from the Chesapeake Bay watershed
Authors: Blazer VS , Young KT , Smith GD , Sperry AJ , Iwanowicz LR
Published: April 2020

Hyperpigmented melanistic skin lesions (HPMLs) of smallmouth bassMicropterus dolomieuare observed in the Potomac and Susquehanna rivers, Chesapeake Bay watershed, USA. Routine, nonlethal population surveys were conducted at 8 sites on the mainstem Susquehanna River and 9 on the Juniata River, a tributary of the Susquehanna River, between 2012 and 2018, and the prevalence of HPMLs was documented. A total of 4078 smallmouth bass were collected from the mainstem Susquehanna River and 6478 from the Juniata River. Lesions were primarily seen in bass greater than 200 mm, and prevalence in the Susquehanna River (8%) was higher (p < 0.001) than in the Juniata River (2%). As part of ongoing fish health monitoring projects, smallmouth bass were collected at additional sites, primarily tributaries of the Susquehanna (n = 758) and Potomac (n = 545) rivers between 2013 and 2018. Prevalence in the Susquehanna River (13%) was higher (p < 0.001) than the Potomac (3%). Microscopically, HPMLs were characterized by an increased number of melanocytes in the epidermis or within the dermis and epidermis. RNAseq analyses of normal and melanistic skin identified 3 unique sequences in HPMLs. Two were unidentified and the third was a viral helicase (E1). Transcript abundance in 16 normal skin samples and 16 HPMLs showed upregulation of genes associated with melanogenesis and cell proliferation in HPMLs. The E1 transcript was detected in 12 of the 16 melanistic areas but in no samples from normal skin. Further research will be necessary to identify the putative new virus and determine its role in melanocyte proliferation.
PENDER’İN SAĞLIĞI GELİŞTİRME MODELİ TEMELLİ, MENOPOZ DÖNEMİNDEKİ KADINLARIN SEMPTOMLARLA BAŞETMESİNDE FİZİKSEL EGZERSİZİN DESTEKLENMESİ
Authors: POLAT Filiz , AYLAZ Rukuye
Published: April 2020

Kadın yaşamında önemli bir dönüm noktası olan menopoz; overlerde hormon azalması sonucu ortaya çıkan ve üreme yeteneğinin kaybolduğu uzun bir yaşam evresidir. Hormonal değişiklikler sonucu ortaya çıkan menopozal semptomlar menopoz dönemine geçiş ve erken menopoz sonrası hem fiziksel hem de psikolojik alanlarda en sık görülen şikâyetlerdir. Egzersiz, menopoz dönemine geçişi kolaylaştırmada önemli bir rol oynamaktadır. Düzenli fiziksel aktivite, menopozun rahatsız edici semptomlarını yönetmeye, hafifletmeye ve fiziksel, psikolojik ve sosyal problemleri azaltmaya yardımcı olmaktadır. Hemşireler egzersizin önemini ve düzenli olarak yapılması gerektiğini belirtmeli, egzersiz planlamasında kadınlara yardımcı olmalıdır. Sağlığı geliştirme modeli sağlıklı bir yaşam için kişilerin sağlık aktivitelerinde aktif rol almasını, hemşire ile hastanın işbirliği içinde çalışarak hastanın davranışlarında değişiklik yapılmasını sağlar. Sağlığı geliştirme modeli rehberliğinde yapılan egzersizler, bireylerin kendi sağlıkları konusunda sorumluluk almalarını, sağlıklı yaşam biçimi davranışlarının gelişmesi ve menopozal semptomlarla başetmeleri açısından önemlidir.
ERKEN ÇOCUKLUK DÖNEMİNDE DİL GELİŞİMİ ÜZERİNE YAPILAN ÇALIŞMALARIN İÇERİK ANALİZİ
Authors: DURAN Munise , KENANOĞLU Dilan
Published: April 2020

Bu araştırmada, erken çocukluk döneminde dil gelişimini konu alan ULAKBİM ve SSCI veri tabanları tarafından dizinlenen makalelerin yanı sıra YÖK Ulusal Tez Merkezinde indekslenen yüksek lisans ve doktora tezleri çeşitli değişkenlere göre sistemli bir şekilde incelenmiştir. Verilerin toplanmasında; tezler için “Yök Dökümantasyon Sistemi”, makaleler için ise ‘‘ULAKBİM Sosyal Bilimler veri tabanı ve SSCI veri tabanı’’ kullanılmıştır. İncelenen araştırmalar (n:77); doktora tezi (n:7), yüksek lisans tezi (n: 46) ve makalelerden (n:24) oluşmaktadır. Araştırmadan elde edilen bulgular doğrultusunda yapılan çalışmaların en çok %40,1’i deneysel modelde yapıldığı, çalışma grubunun %61’ni ise çocukların oluşturduğu görülmüştür. Dil alanında en çok incelenen çalışma konusunu %15,2 oranıyla yabancı dil oluştururken Peabody Resim Kelime Testi %20 oranıyla araştırmalarda en çok kullanılan veri toplama aracı olmuştur. Ayrıca veri analiz yöntemi olarak T-Testi %26,4, Anova %18,2 ve Mann Whitney U %10,9 oranında kullanılmıştır. En fazla araştırmanın yapıldığı il Ankara olurken bu alanda yapılan çalışmaları en çok bayan akademisyenler yapmıştır. Bunun yanı sıra dil gelişimi ile ilgili çalışmaların son yıllarda artış gösterdiği görülmektedir. Erken çocukluk döneminde uygulanan eğitim programlarından çoklu zekâ kuramını temel alan öğretimin, oyun temelli eğitim programının, öğretim teknolojileri ve materyal destekli öğretimin, High Scope programının ve DMOEP’nin çocukların dil gelişimine pozitif yönde katkı sağladığı saptanmıştır.
Territorial Delegates and Party Balance: House Committee Membership after 1970
Authors: DeHart Cameron
Published: April 2020

Non-voting delegates have represented territories in Congress since 1797, but have only been able to vote in committees in the last half century. The 1970s reforms to expand delegates’ rights and create new seats coincided with other party-driven changes to the committee system, and little is known about the impact delegates had on party ratios in committees. In this paper, I present evidence that the addition of delegates to standing committees in the 1970s, as well as the Committee of the Whole in the 1990s, increased Democrats’ seat share relative to the margin on the floor. In light of this evidence, the disagreements about the scope of delegates’ participation in the House are best understood in the context of increasing polarization and partisanship that increased the stakes of packing committees on the margin.
Sound Narrative: Honing a Deeper Understanding of Soundscapes
Authors: Walzer Daniel
Published: April 2020

This essay reports on the pedagogical and curricular decisions guiding the creative activities in the author's university course incorporating field recording, soundscape-based composition, and digital technology. In keeping with the issue's theme of 21st-century composition, the article includes critical reflection and a consideration of the influence of R. Murray Schafer. It contextualizes the course in the broader context of modern compositional activities in university settings. The author's creative practice informs much of the pedagogical framework as a soundscape-based composer.
Development of Point-to-Point Path Control in Actuator Space for Hydraulic Knuckle Boom Crane
Authors: Jensen Konrad Johan , Kjeld Ebbesen Morten , Rygaard Hansen Michael
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a novel method for point-to-point path control for a hydraulic knuckle boom crane. The developed path control algorithm differs from previous solutions by operating in the actuator space instead of the joint space or Cartesian space of the crane. By operating in actuator space, almost all the parameters and constraints of the system become either linear or constant, which greatly reduces the complexity of both the control algorithm and path generator. For a given starting point and endpoint, the motion for each actuator is minimized compared to other methods. This ensures that any change in direction of motion is avoided, thereby greatly minimizing fatigue, jerky motion, and energy consumption. However, where other methods may move the tool-point in a straight line from start to end, the method in actuator space will not. In addition, when working in actuator space in combination with pressure-compensated control valves, there is no need for linearization of the system or feedback linearization due to the linear relationship between the control signal and the actuator velocities. The proposed solution has been tested on a physical system and shows good setpoint tracking and minimal oscillations.
Seasonal Functional Partitioning of Carbohydrates and Proline among Plant Parts of the Sand Daffodil
Authors: Pouris John , Meletiou-Christou Maria-Sonia , Chimona Chrysanthi , Rhizopoulou Sophia
Published: April 2020

The sand daffodil (Pancratium maritimum) is a perennial geophyte, widely distributed and grown in a wild stage along the Mediterranean seashores. The aboveground tissues of this geophyte are exposed to harsh, ambient conditions and its large inflorescences of remarkable beauty and fragrance expand during the drought season and carry particular ornamental worth. The ecophysiological principles underlining metabolic processes of this geophyte are poorly understood. The seasonal variation of soluble sugars, starch, and proline was investigated in individuals collected from patches of P. maritimum, therefore, monthly measurements were performed in bulbs, leaves, scapes, and petals during a year. It was found that (a) sugar content showed similar seasonal trends between bulbs and leaves, as well as between petals and scapes, (b) bulbs contained enhanced starch concentrations irrespective of season, (c) proline accumulation exhibited substantial seasonal fluctuations among the considered tissues and pronounced differences were detected between maxima in petals and leaves. A substantial increase in both sugar and proline content was evident in petals during the drought season. In leaves, the accumulation of proline and, to a lesser extent, sugars was negatively correlated to the precipitation of the Mediterranean study site. It seems likely that the astonishing flowering of P. maritimum is supported by large leaf and bulb reserves.
Erratum: Rodrigues, L.; Amezcua, R.; Cassar, G.; O’Sullivan, T.; Friendship, R. Comparison of Single, Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination in Gilts Using Two Different Protocols to Synchronize Ovulation. Animals 2020, 10, 306
Authors: Rodrigues Lima , Amezcua Rocio , Cassar Glen , O’Sullivan Terri L , Friendship Robert
Published: April 2020

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [...]
Prediction of the Hind-Leg Muscles Weight of Yearling Dairy-Beef Steers Using Carcass Weight, Wither Height and Ultrasound Carcass Measurements
Authors: Addis Addisu Hailu , Blair Hugh Thomas , Morris Stephen Todd , Kenyon Paul Richard , Schreurs Nicola Maria
Published: April 2020

Prediction equations have been widely utilized for carcass classification and grading systems in older beef cattle. However, the equations are mostly relevant for common beef breeds and 18 to 24 month old animals; there are no equations suitable for yearling, dairy-origin cattle. Therefore, this study developed prediction models using 60 dairy-origin, 8 to 12 month old steers to indicate saleable meat yield from hind-legs, which would assist with carcass classification and grading. Fat depth over the rump, rib fat depth, and eye muscle area between the 12th and 13th ribs were measured using ultrasound, and wither height was recorded one week prior to slaughter. The muscles from the hind-leg were retrieved 24 h after slaughter. Prediction equations were modeled for the hind-leg muscles weight using carcass weight, wither height, eye muscle area, rump, and rib fat depths as predictors. Carcass weight explained 61.5% of the variation in hind-leg muscles weight, and eye muscle area explained 39.9% (p < 0.05). Their combination in multivariate analysis explained 63.5% of the variation in hind-leg muscles weight. The R2 of the prediction in univariate and multivariate analyses was improved when data were analyzed per age group. Additional explanatory traits for yearling steers, including body length, hearth girth, and muscle depth and dimensions measured using video image analysis scanning (VIAscan), could improve the prediction ability of saleable meat yield from yearling dairy beef steers across the slaughter age groups.
Automatic Expanding Mandrel with Air Sensing Device: Design and Analysis
Authors: Heras Enrique Soriano , Rubio Higinio , Bustos Alejandro , García Prada Juan Carlos
Published: April 2020

In precision machining, expanding mandrels are used for jobs with close tolerances. An expanding mandrel consists of a tapered arbor or shaft, with a thin-slotted clamping sleeve or collet made of hardened steel. The internal tapered and external cylindrical surfaces are ground to a high degree of accuracy, and the mandrel expands to fit the internal bore of the workpiece. Expanding mandrels are, essentially, wedge mechanisms. This paper proposes an automatic expanding mandrel with a novel force transmission system for high stiffness within a novel air sensing system, which allows detection of the correct part position before starting machining. A computational model for determining the dynamic clamping force of the proposed mechanism is developed and implemented using MATLAB. This model considers the influence of the stiffness behaviors of the collet, force transmission structure and workpiece. Additionally, this paper presents the finite element method analyses which were conducted to check the proposed computational model. The amount of clamping force transmitted by a collet chuck holder depends strongly on: clearances, wedge angle, stiffness of the collet chuck holder and workpiece stiffness.
Development of an ESCO Risk Assessment Model as a Decision-Making Tool for the Energy Savings Certificates Market Regulator: A Case Study
Authors: Ahmadi Mohsen , Hatami Mohsen , Rahgozar Peyman , Shirkhanloo Salar , Abed Shahriar , Kamalzadeh Hossein , Flood Ian
Published: April 2020

This article is focused on developing an Energy Service Company (ESCO) risk assessment model for use by energy savings certificates (ESC) market regulators. This model enables market regulators to determine the appropriate point in time for ESCOs to sell their certificates with the aim of minimizing risk as well as maximizing economic gain yet remain motivated for reducing the cost of energy efficiency technologies. To this end, the interactions between an ESCO and other parties (such as suppliers) in the market in addition to the principles of the energy efficiency performance contract are taken into consideration. Then, appropriate probability distributions have been fitted to the stochastic variables to be applied in the Net Present Value (NPV) function, based on sampled company data. A case study considers a one MW Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) implementation in Iran’s petrochemical industry. The finding of this study shows if the ESCO is allowed to sell the certificates during the first seven years as well reduce 30% of the investment cost, the expected Net Present Value over Investment Cost (NPV/I) savings will cover more than one cycle.
Phytodepuration of Pyroligneous Liquor: A Case Study
Authors: Cantamessa Simone , Berta Graziella , Lingua Guido , Gamalero Elisa
Published: April 2020

Wastewaters generated by the pyrolytic process require treatments to reduce the risks of contamination in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Utilizing constructed wetlands is one of the possible approaches according to a Circular Economy System. Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) can improve plant growth and enhance the bioremediation of wastewater. Two experiments were set up: in the first, a pilot mesocosm was designed to evaluate the effects of a consortium of AM fungi and a PGPB strain on Phragmites australis. After 60 days, the highest plant growth was obtained after inoculation with the combination of microorganisms. In the second experiment, a constructed wetland was built to remediate wastewaters from gasification plant. The plants were efficient in scavenging biological oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total fat and oils, hydrocarbons, phenols, aldehydes, surfactants, fluorides, sulfites, sulfates, nitrate, and phosphorus. These data suggest that inoculation of P. australis with AMF and PGPB strains significantly improve the depuration process of wastewaters from gasification plants via constructed wetlands.
Efficient Deep Learning for Gradient-Enhanced Stress Dependent Damage Model
Authors: Zhuang Xiaoying , Nguyen L. C. , Nguyen-Xuan Hung , Alajlan Naif , Rabczuk Timon
Published: April 2020

This manuscript introduces a computational approach to micro-damage problems using deep learning for the prediction of loading deflection curves. The location of applied forces, dimensions of the specimen and material parameters are used as inputs of the process. The micro-damage is modelled with a gradient-enhanced damage model which ensures the well-posedness of the boundary value and yields mesh-independent results in computational methods such as FEM. We employ the Adam optimizer and Rectified linear unit activation function for training processes and research into the deep neural network architecture. The performance of our approach is demonstrated through some numerical examples including the three-point bending specimen, shear bending on L-shaped specimen and different failure mechanisms.
Laboratory Characterization of a Compacted–Unsaturated Silty Sand with Special Attention to Dynamic Behavior
Authors: Głuchowski Andrzej , Skutnik Zdzisław , Biliniak Marcin , Sas Wojciech , Lo Presti Diego
Published: April 2020

The dynamic properties of compacted non-cohesive soils are desired not only because of the risk of natural sources of dynamic excitations such as earthquakes, but mostly because of the anthropogenic impact of machines that are working on such soils. These soils are often unsaturated, which positively affects the soil’s mechanical properties. The information about the values of these parameters is highly desirable for engineers. In this article, we performed a series of tests, including oedometric tests, resonant column tests, bender element tests, and unsaturated triaxial tests, to evaluate those characteristic parameters. The results showed that sandy silt soil has a typical reaction to dynamic loading in terms of shear modulus degradation and the damping ratio curves’ characteristics, which can be modeled by using empirical equations. We found that the compaction procedure caused an over-consolidation state dependent on the moisture content during compaction effort. The article analyzed the soil properties that impact the maximum shear modulus G0 value. Those properties were suction s, confining pressure σ3, and compaction degree represented by the void ratio function f(e).
Augmented Reality as a Didactic Resource for Teaching Mathematics
Authors: Fernández-Enríquez Roger , Delgado-Martín Laura
Published: April 2020

This paper is an example of how to use new technologies to produce didactic innovative resources that ease the teaching and learning process of mathematics. This paper is focused on augmented reality technology with the aim of achieving the creation of didactic resources related to the polyhedra taught in a course of compulsory secondary education in Spain. First, we introduce the basis of this technology and present the theoretical framework in which we make an exhaustive analysis that justifies its usage with educative purposes. Secondly, we explain how to build the polyhedra in augmented reality using the Unity game engine and the Vuforia software development kit (SDK), which enables the use of augmented reality. Using both tools, we create an augmented reality application and some augmented reality notes with the purpose of helping in the process of visualization and comprehension of the three-dimensional geometry related to polyhedra. Finally, we design an innovative, didactic proposal for teaching the polyhedra in the third course of compulsory Secondary Education in Spain, using the resources created with the augmented reality technology.
Antiphotoaging Effect of (2′S)-Columbianetin from Corydalis heterocarpa in UVA-Irradiated Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Oh Jung Hwan , Karadeniz Fatih , Lee Jung Im , Kim Hye Ran , Seo Youngwan , Kong Chang-Suk
Published: April 2020

Ultraviolet A (UVA)-induced detrimental effects in the skin, also known as photoaging, are mediated with several pathways including oxidative stress generation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. UVA irradiation results in excessive production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes responsible for the degradation of ECM components such as collagen. In this study, the protective effects of (2′S)-columbianetin against UVA-induced changes in matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and collagen production were investigated in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). The (2′S)-columbianetin was isolated from Corydalis heterocarpa. UVA exposure increased MMP-1 release from HDFs and diminished the release of type I pro-collagen. Treatment with (2′S)-columbianetin reversed these effects of UVA exposure. The (2′S)-columbianetin treatment also suppressed the intracellular expression of MMP-1 and increased type I pro-collagen expression. UVA exposure elevated the activation of p38, c-Jun-amino-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) as the mechanism to stimulate MMP-1 production. The (2′S)-columbianetin suppressed the phosphorylation of JNK and ERK. The (2′S)-columbianetin was also stimulated collagen production via TGFβ signaling cascade, relieving UVA-induced suppression of Smad2/3 phosphorylation and translocation. In conclusion, (2′S)-columbianetin was suggested to be a potential cosmeceutical lead compound with antiphotoaging properties against UVA-induced collagen degradation.
Special Issue on Green Concrete for a Better Sustainable Environment
Authors: Tang Waiching
Published: April 2020

Green concrete is defined as concrete that uses waste material as at least one of its components, or has a production process that does not lead to environmental destruction, or has a high performance and life cycle sustainability [...]
Exploring the Patterns of Job Satisfaction for Individuals Aged 50 and over from Three Historical Regions of Romania. An Inductive Approach with Respect to Triangulation, Cross-Validation and Support for Replication of Results
Authors: Homocianu Daniel , Plopeanu Aurelian-Petruș , Florea Nelu , Andrieș Alin Marius
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we explore the determinants of being satisfied with a job, starting from a SHARE-ERIC dataset (Wave 7), including responses collected from Romania. To explore and discover reliable predictors in this large amount of data, mostly because of the staggeringly high number of dimensions, we considered the triangulation principle in science by using many different approaches, techniques and applications to study such a complex phenomenon. For merging the data, cleaning it and doing further derivations, we comparatively used many methods based on spreadsheets and their easy-to-use functions, custom filters and auto-fill options, DAX and Open Refine expressions, traditional SQL queries and also powerful 1:1 merge statements in Stata. For data mining, we used in three consecutive rounds: Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services and SQL DMX queries on models built involving both decision trees and naive Bayes algorithms applied on raw and memory consuming text data, three LASSO variable selection techniques in Stata on recoded variables followed by logistic and Poisson regressions with average marginal effects and generation of corresponding prediction nomograms operating directly in probabilistic terms, and finally the WEKA tool for an additional validation. We obtained three Romanian regional models with an excellent accuracy of classification (AUROC > 0.9) and found several peculiarities in them. More, we discovered that a good atmosphere in the workplace and receiving recognition as deserved for work done are the top two most reliable predictors (dual-core) of career satisfaction, confirmed in this order of importance by many robustness checks. This type of meritocratic recognition has a more powerful influence on job satisfaction for male respondents rather than female ones and for married individuals rather unmarried ones. When testing the dual-core on respondents aged 50 and over from most of the European countries (more than 75,000 observations), the positive surprise was that it undoubtedly resisted, confirming most of our hypotheses and also the working principles of support for replication of results, triangulation and the golden rule of robustness using cross-validation.
Evaluation of Aloe Vera Coated Polylactic Acid Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Donate Ricardo , Alemán-Domínguez María Elena , Monzón Mario , Yu Jianshu , Rodríguez-Esparragón Francisco , Liu Chaozong
Published: April 2020

3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds have been demonstrated as being a promising tool for the development of tissue-engineered replacements of bone. However, this material lacks a suitable surface chemistry to efficiently interact with extracellular proteins and, consequently, to integrate into the surrounding tissue when implanted in vivo. In this study, aloe vera coatings have been proposed as a strategy to improve the bioaffinity of this type of structures. Aloe vera coatings were applied at three different values of pH (3, 4 and 5), after treating the surface of the PLA scaffolds with oxygen plasma. The surface modification of the material has been assessed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis and water contact angle measurements. In addition, the evaluation of the enzymatic degradation of the structures showed that the pH of the aloe vera extracts used as coating influences the degradation rate of the PLA-based scaffolds. Finally, the cell metabolic activity of an in vitro culture of human fetal osteoblastic cells on the samples revealed an improvement of this parameter on aloe vera coated samples, especially for those treated at pH 3. Hence, these structures showed potential for being applied for bone tissue regeneration.
Effect of Foliar and Soil Fertilization with New Products Based on Calcinated Bones on Selected Physiological Parameters of Maize Plants
Authors: Matlok Natalia , Szostek Małgorzata , Antos Piotr , Gajdek Grażyna , Gorzelany Józef , Bobrecka-Jamro Dorota , Balawejder Maciej
Published: April 2020

This manuscript presents the effect of foliar and soil fertilizer produced from thermally processed bone waste on the initial growth and development of maize plants. The developed fertilizers were tested in three different doses in a pot experiment. Because nutrient deficiency interferes with plant physiological processes, the impact of the developed fertilizers on gas exchange parameters, relative chlorophyll content, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were assessed. Based on the conducted research, it was found that fertilization with developed foliar and soil fertilizers increased the relative content of chlorophyll in maize leaves and increased the value of gas exchange parameters and chlorophyll fluorescence. All determined parameters of gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence showed a positive correlation depending on the dose of foliar fertilization used (average value r = 0.8414). In turn, the soil fertilization that was utilized during the experiment significantly correlated only with the content of chlorophyll (r = 0.6965). The tested fertilizers improvement of the physiological parameters of the plants, which indicates the fertilizing efficiency of the tested fertilizers.
Business Analytics in Telemarketing: Cost-Sensitive Analysis of Bank Campaigns Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Ghatasheh Nazeeh , Faris Hossam , AlTaharwa Ismail , Harb Yousra , Harb Ayman
Published: April 2020

The banking industry has been seeking novel ways to leverage database marketing efficiency. However, the nature of bank marketing data hindered the researchers in the process of finding a reliable analytical scheme. Various studies have attempted to improve the performance of Artificial Neural Networks in predicting clients’ intentions but did not resolve the issue of imbalanced data. This research aims at improving the performance of predicting the willingness of bank clients to apply for a term deposit in highly imbalanced datasets. It proposes enhanced Artificial Neural Network models (i.e., cost-sensitive) to mitigate the dramatic effects of highly imbalanced data, without distorting the original data samples. The generated models are evaluated, validated, and consequently compared to different machine-learning models. A real-world telemarketing dataset from a Portuguese bank is used in all the experiments. The best prediction model achieved 79% of geometric mean, and misclassification errors were minimized to 0.192, 0.229 of Type I & Type II Errors, respectively. In summary, an interesting Meta-Cost method improved the performance of the prediction model without imposing significant processing overhead or altering original data samples.
A Novel Bionic Structure Inspired by Luffa Sponge and Its Cushion Properties
Authors: Xie Yong , Bai Hailong , Liu Zhenghao , Chen Nanning
Published: April 2020

The luffa sponge shows excellent cushion properties. This paper presents a bio-inspired structure of the luffa sponge. The geometry of the bionic structure was built based on the fractal theory by Python programming language and prepared by a 3D printer. Then a series of quasi-static compression tests and finite element analysis were carried out to determine the cushion properties. An optimization design was adopted to determine the best design parameter. The results showed that the influence of length ( a ) on specific energy absorption was more important than the degree ( θ ). The best parameter was found to be length less than 4 mm and angle around 11 degrees. The bionic structure of luffa sponge may show a novel perspective on natural cellular material. The findings demonstrate the great potential for designing hierarchical cellular structures and broad application prospects in the field of cushioning and energy absorption.
Lamb-Wave-Based Method in the Evaluation of Self-Healing Efficiency
Authors: Radzieński Maciej , Kudela Paweł , Ostachowicz Wiesław , Bolimowski Patryk , Kozera Rafał , Boczkowska Anna
Published: April 2020

The aim of this research is a feasibility study of self-healing process monitoring in composite laminates. A novel nondestructive method based on the full wavefield of Lamb wave processing is proposed. Experimental verification is presented for glass-fiber-reinforced polymer plate with embedded self-healing function in the form of a dry microcapsule powder. After impacting the specimen to create barely visible impact damage, a series of laser vibrometer full wavefield measurements were carried out and processed to assess self-healing efficiency.
Machine Learning Methods for Herschel–Bulkley Fluids in Annulus: Pressure Drop Predictions and Algorithm Performance Evaluation
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Ridha Syahrir , Ganet Tarek , Vasant Pandian , Ilyas Suhaib Umer
Published: April 2020

Accurate measurement of pressure drop in energy sectors especially oil and gas exploration is a challenging and crucial parameter for optimization of the extraction process. Many empirical and analytical solutions have been developed to anticipate pressure loss for non-Newtonian fluids in concentric and eccentric pipes. Numerous attempts have been made to extend these models to forecast pressure loss in the annulus. However, there remains a void in the experimental and theoretical studies to establish a model capable of estimating it with higher accuracy and lower computation. Rheology of fluid and geometry of system cumulatively dominate the pressure gradient in an annulus. In the present research, the prediction for Herschel–Bulkley fluids is analyzed by Bayesian Neural Network (BNN), random forest (RF), artificial neural network (ANN), and support vector machines (SVM) for pressure loss in the concentric and eccentric annulus. This study emphasizes on the performance evaluation of given algorithms and their pitfalls in predicting accurate pressure drop. The predictions of BNN and RF exhibit the least mean absolute error of 3.2% and 2.57%, respectively, and both can generalize the pressure loss calculation. The impact of each input parameter affecting the pressure drop is quantified using the RF algorithm.
Multilevel Task Offloading and Resource Optimization of Edge Computing Networks Considering UAV Relay and Green Energy
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Xiao Nan , Han Dongsheng
Published: April 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-assisted relay mobile edge computing (MEC) network is a prominent concept, where network deployment is flexible and network coverage is wide. In scenarios such as emergency communications and low-cost coverage, optimization of offloading methods and resource utilization are important ways to improve system effectiveness due to limited terminal and UAV energy and hardware equipment. A multilevel edge computing network resource optimization model on the basis of UAV fusion that provides relay forwarding and offload services is established by considering the initial energy state of the UAV, the green energy charging function, and the reliability of computing offload. With normalized system utility function maximization as the goal, a Markov decision process algorithm meets the needs of the practical application scene and provides a flexible and effective unloading mode. This algorithm is adopted to solve the optimal offloading mode and the optimal resource utilization scheme. Simulations verify the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed multilevel offloading model. The proposed model can optimize system resource allocation and effectively improve the utility function and user experience of computing offloading systems.
The μ-Calculus Model-Checking Algorithm for Generalized Possibilistic Decision Process
Authors: Jiang Jiulei , Zhang Panqing , Ma Zhanyou
Published: April 2020

Model checking is a formal automatic verification technology for complex concurrent systems. It is used widely in the verification and analysis of computer software and hardware systems, communication protocols, security protocols, etc. The generalized possibilistic μ-calculus model-checking algorithm for decision processes is studied to solve the formal verification problem of concurrent systems with nondeterministic information and incomplete information on the basis of possibility theory. Firstly, the generalized possibilistic decision process is introduced as the system model. Then, the classical proposition μ-calculus is improved and extended, and the concept of generalized possibilistic μ-calculus (GPoμ) is given to describe the attribute characteristics of nondeterministic systems. Then, the GPoμ model-checking algorithm is proposed, and the model-checking problem is simplified to fuzzy matrix operations. Finally, a specific example and a case study are analyzed and verified. Compared with the classical μ-calculus, the generalized possibilistic μ-calculus has a stronger expressive power and can better characterize the attributes of nondeterministic systems. The model-checking algorithm can give the possibility that the system satisfies the attributes. The research work provides a new idea and method for model checking nondeterministic systems.
Applications and Limits of Time-to-Energy Mapping of Protein Crystal Diffraction Using Energy-Chirped Polychromatic XFEL Pulses
Authors: Fadini Alisia , Reiche Sven , Nass Karol , van Thor Jasper J.
Published: April 2020

A broadband energy-chirped hard X-ray pulse has been demonstrated at the SwissFEL (free electron laser) with up to 4% bandwidth. We consider the characteristic parameters for analyzing the time dependence of stationary protein diffraction with energy-chirped pulses. Depending on crystal mosaic spread, convergence, and recordable resolution, individual reflections are expected to spend at least ≈ 50 attoseconds and up to ≈ 8 femtoseconds in reflecting condition. Using parameters for a chirped XFEL pulse obtained from simulations of 4% bandwidth conditions, ray-tracing simulations have been carried out to demonstrate the temporal streaking across individual reflections and resolution ranges for protein crystal diffraction. Simulations performed at a higher chirp (10%) emphasize the importance of chirp magnitude that would allow increased observation statistics for the temporal separation of individual reflections for merging and structure determination. Finally, we consider the fundamental limitation for obtaining time-dependent observations using chirped pulse diffraction. We consider the maximum theoretical time resolution achievable to be on the order of 50–200 as from the instantaneous bandwidth of the chirped SASE pulse. We then assess the ability to propagate ultrafast optical pulses for pump-probe cross-correlation under characteristic conditions of material dispersion; in this regard, the limiting factors for time resolution scale with crystal thickness. Crystals that are below a few microns in size will be necessary for subfemtosecond time resolution.
Comparison Study between Indoor and Outdoor Chemical Composition of PM2.5 in Two Italian Areas
Authors: Tofful Luca , Perrino Cinzia , Canepari Silvia
Published: April 2020

Outdoor air quality guidelines have been constantly implemented during the last decades. Nonetheless, no international regulations have been put into action in terms of indoor air quality standards and standardized procedures for indoor pollution measurements. In this study, we investigated the chemical composition of PM2.5 collected outdoors and indoors at six dwellings located in two Italian areas. The selected sites concerned inland/central and southern Italy, including urban, peri-urban, rural and coastal settings. The seasonal and site-specific particulate matter (PM) variations were analyzed outdoors and indoors, by estimating the impact of the main macro-sources and the contribution of the macro- and micro-components. Outdoors, organic matter represented the main contribution at inland and coastal sites, respectively during winter and summer. A clear, seasonal variation was also observed for secondary inorganic species. A site-specific dependence was exhibited by traffic-related components. Indoors, organic and soil-related species were influenced by the presence of the inhabitants. Some specific tracers allowed to identify additional local source contributions and indoor activities. Although the sampling season and site location defined the outdoor air quality, the higher PM concentrations and the chemical composition indoors were influenced by the infiltration of outdoor air and by the indoor activities carried out by its inhabitants.
Calculation of the Geometries and Infrared Spectra of the Stacked Cofactor Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FAD) as the Prerequisite for Studies of Light-Triggered Proton and Electron Transfer
Authors: Kieninger Martina , Ventura Oscar N. , Kottke Tilman
Published: April 2020

Flavin cofactors, like flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), are important electron shuttles in living systems. They catalyze a wide range of one- or two-electron redox reactions. Experimental investigations include UV-vis as well as infrared spectroscopy. FAD in aqueous solution exhibits a significantly shorter excited state lifetime than its analog, the flavin mononucleotide. This finding is explained by the presence of a “stacked” FAD conformation, in which isoalloxazine and adenine moieties form a π-complex. Stacking of the isoalloxazine and adenine rings should have an influence on the frequency of the vibrational modes. Density functional theory (DFT) studies of the closed form of FAD in microsolvation (explicit water) were used to reproduce the experimental infrared spectra, substantiating the prevalence of the stacked geometry of FAD in aqueous surroundings. It could be shown that the existence of the closed structure in FAD can be narrowed down to the presence of only a single water molecule between the third hydroxyl group (of the ribityl chain) and the N7 in the adenine ring of FAD.
Phosphonic Acid Analogs of Fluorophenylalanines as Inhibitors of Human and Porcine Aminopeptidases N: Validation of the Importance of the Substitution of the Aromatic Ring
Authors: Wanat Weronika , Talma Michał , Dziuk Błażej , Pirat Jean-Luc , Kafarski Paweł
Published: April 2020

A library of phosphonic acid analogs of phenylalanine substituted with fluorine, chlorine and trifluoromethyl moieties on the aromatic ring was synthesized and evaluated for inhibitory activity against human (hAPN) and porcine (pAPN) aminopeptidases. Fluorogenic screening indicated that these analogs are micromolar or submicromolar inhibitors, both enzymes being more active against hAPN. In order to better understand the mode of the action of the most active compounds, molecular modeling was used. It confirmed that aminophosphonic portion of the enzyme is bound nearly identically in the case of all the studied compounds, whereas the difference in activity results from the placement of aromatic side chain of an inhibitor. Interestingly, both enantiomers of the individual compounds are usually bound quite similarly.
Exogenous NAD+ Stimulates MUC2 Expression in LS 174T Goblet Cells via the PLC-Delta/PTGES/PKC-Delta/ERK/CREB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ma Seongho , Yeom Jiah , Lim Young-Hee
Published: April 2020

Background: MUC2, a major component of the mucus layer in the intestine, is associated with antimicrobial activity and gut immune system function. Currently, mucin is mainly known for its critical function in defense against toxic molecules and pathogens. In this study, we investigated the stimulatory effects of exogenous nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) on the expression of MUC2 in LS 174T goblet cells. Methods: Genes related to MUC2 synthesis were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). To analyze the gene expression profiles of NAD+-treated LS 174T goblet cells, RNA sequencing was performed. MUC2 expression in the cells and secreted MUC2 were measured by immunocytochemistry (ICC) and ELISA, respectively. Results: NAD+ significantly stimulated MUC2 expression at mRNA and protein levels and increased the secretion of MUC2. Through RNA sequencing, we found that the expression of genes involved in arachidonic acid metabolism increased in NAD+-treated cells compared with the negative control cells. NAD+ treatment increased phospholipase C (PLC)-δ and prostaglandin E synthase (PTGES) expression, which was inhibited by the appropriate inhibitors. Among the protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes, PKC-δ was involved in the increase in MUC2 expression. In addition, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and cyclic AMP (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB) transcript levels were higher in NAD+-treated cells than in the negative control cells, and the enhanced levels of phosphorylated CREB augmented MUC2 expression. Conclusions: Exogenous NAD+ increases MUC2 expression by stimulating the PLC-δ/PTGES/PKC-δ/ERK/CREB signaling pathway.
Mesocorticolimbic Interactions Mediate fMRI-Guided Regulation of Self-Generated Affective States
Authors: Caria Andrea
Published: April 2020

Increasing evidence shows that the generation and regulation of affective responses is associated with activity of large brain networks that also include phylogenetically older regions in the brainstem. Mesencephalic regions not only control autonomic responses but also participate in the modulation of autonomic, emotional, and motivational responses. The specific contribution of the midbrain to emotion regulation in humans remains elusive. Neuroimaging studies grounding on appraisal models of emotion emphasize a major role of prefrontal cortex in modulating emotion-related cortical and subcortical regions but usually neglect the contribution of the midbrain and other brainstem regions. Here, the role of mesolimbic and mesocortical networks in core affect generation and regulation was explored during emotion regulation guided by real-time fMRI feedback of the anterior insula activity. The fMRI and functional connectivity analysis revealed that the upper midbrain significantly contributes to emotion regulation in humans. Moreover, differential functional interactions between the dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic system and frontoparietal networks mediate up and down emotion regulatory processes. Finally, these findings further indicate the potential of real-time fMRI feedback approach in guiding core affect regulation.
Emerging Therapeutic Activity of Davallia formosana on Prostate Cancer Cells through Coordinated Blockade of Lipogenesis and Androgen Receptor Expression
Authors: Hsieh Po-Fan , Jiang Wen-Ping , Huang Shih-Yin , Basavaraj Praveenkumar , Wu Jin-Bin , Ho Hui-Ya , Huang Guan-Jhong , Huang Wen-Chin
Published: April 2020

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent malignancy diagnosed in men in Western countries. There is currently no effective therapy for advanced PCa aggressiveness, including castration-resistant progression. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential efficacy and determine the molecular basis of Davallia formosana (DF) in PCa. Methods: LNCaP (androgen-sensitive) and C4-2 (androgen-insensitive/castration-resistant) PCa cells were utilized in this study. An MTT-based method, a wound healing assay, and the transwell method were performed to evaluate cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Intracellular fatty acid levels and lipid droplet accumulation were analyzed to determine lipogenesis. Moreover, apoptotic assays and in vivo experiments were conducted. Results: DF ethanol extract (DFE) suppressed proliferation, migration, and invasion in PCa cells. DFE attenuated lipogenesis through inhibition of the expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) and fatty acid synthase (FASN). Moreover, DFE decreased androgen receptor (AR) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) expression in PCa cells. We further showed the potent therapeutic activity of DFE by repressing the growth and leading to apoptosis of subcutaneous C4-2 tumors in a xenograft mouse model. Conclusions: These data provide a new molecular basis of DFE in PCa cells, and co-targeting SREBP-1/FASN/lipogenesis and the AR axis by DFE could be employed as a novel and promising strategy for the treatment of PCa.
Are Patients with Active Cancer and Those with History of Cancer Carrying the Same Risks of Recurrent VTE and Bleeding While on Anticoagulants?
Authors: Frere Corinne , Crichi Benjamin , Lejeune Manon , Spano Jean-Philippe , Janus Nicolas
Published: April 2020

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) are now recommended for the treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) based on the results of dedicated trials demonstrating that DOAC are non-inferior to low molecular weight heparins in preventing recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) in this population. The definition of “cancer patient” differs substantially among studies. Whether patients with active cancer and those with a history of cancer (HOC) carry the same risks of recurrent VTE and bleeding remains unclear. Few studies reported data on the efficacy and safety of anticoagulants according to active cancer or HOC categories. While in subgroup analyses of EINSTEIN and HOKUSAI the rates of recurrent VTE and bleeding did not differ between these categories, results from a subgroup analysis of AMPLIFY, from HOKUSAI-Cancer, and from the COMMAND cohort suggest that HOC patients might have a lower bleeding risk than active cancer patients. Whether the inclusion of HOC patients in CAT studies might introduce some bias by decreasing the rates of both recurrent VTE and bleeding remains an unanswered issue since no dedicated prospective study addressed this question. A strict definition of active cancer should be used in further trials.