bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Recognition Based on Clustering by Fast Search and Find of Density Peaks (CFSFDP) with Polarimetric Decomposition
Authors: Wu Hao , Pang Bo , Dai Dahai , Wu Jiani , Wang Xuesong
Published: December 2018

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have become vital targets in civilian and military fields. However, the polarization characteristics are rarely studied. This paper studies the polarization property of UAVs via the fusion of three polarimetric decomposition methods. A novel algorithm is presented to classify and recognize UAVs automatically which includes a clustering method proposed in “Science”, one of the top journals in academia. Firstly, the selection of the imaging algorithm ensures the quality of the radar images. Secondly, local geometrical structures of UAVs can be extracted based on Pauli, Krogager, and Cameron polarimetric decomposition. Finally, the proposed algorithm with clustering by fast search and find of density peaks (CFSFDP) has been demonstrated to be better than the original methods under the various noise conditions with the fusion of three polarimetric decomposition methods.
A Comparative Study of Different Optimization Methods for Resonance Half-Bridge Converter
Authors: Salehi Navid , Martinez-Garcia Herminio , Velasco-Quesada Guillermo
Published: December 2018

The LLC resonance half-bridge converter is one of the most popular DC-DC converters and could easily inspire researchers to design a high-efficiency and high-power-density converter. LLC resonance converters have diverse operation modes based on switching frequency and load that cause designing and optimizing procedure to vary in different modes. In this paper, different operation modes of the LLC half-bridge converter that investigate different optimization procedures are introduced. The results of applying some usual optimization methods implies that for each operation mode some specific methods are more appropriate to achieve high efficiency. To verify the results of each optimization, numerous simulations are done by Pspice and MATLAB and the efficiencies are calculated to compare them. Finally, to verify the result of optimization, the experimental results of a laboratory prototype are provided.
Ontology-Based Model to Support Ubiquitous Healthcare Systems for COPD Patients
Authors: Ajami Hicham , Mcheick Hamid
Published: December 2018

Over the past 30 years, information technology has gradually transformed the way health care is provisioned for patients. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an incurable malady that threatens the lives of millions around the world. The huge amount of medical information in terms of complex interdependence between progression of health problems and various other factors makes the representation of data more challenging. This study investigated how formal semantic standards could be used for building an ontology knowledge repository to provide ubiquitous healthcare and medical recommendations for COPD patient to reduce preventable harm. The novel contribution of the suggested framework resides in the patient-centered monitoring approach, as we work to create dynamic adaptive protection services according to the current context of patient. This work executes a sequential modular approach consisting of patient, disease, location, devices, activities, environment and services to deliver personalized real-time medical care for COPD patients. The main benefits of this project are: (1) adhering to dynamic safe boundaries for the vital signs, which may vary depending on multiple factors; (2) assessing environmental risk factors; and (3) evaluating the patient’s daily activities through scheduled events to avoid potentially dangerous situations. This solution implements an interrelated set of ontologies with a logical base of Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL) rules derived from the medical guidelines and expert pneumologists to handle all contextual situations.
A Piecewise Control Strategy for a Bidirectional Series Resonant Converter
Authors: Zhou Sheng-Zhi , Li Xiaodong , Chen Guo , Hu Song
Published: December 2018

An energy storage system (ESS) plays an important part in a renewable energy generation system for stable and efficient power harvesting. To realize the function of an ESS, a bidirectional DC/DC converter with high power density and high efficiency is highly desired. In this paper, a high-frequency (HF) isolated dual-bridge series resonant converter (DBSRC) with a piecewise control strategy is proposed for an application with a wide variation of voltage gain. The proposed control strategy is based on dual-phase-shift modulation for a balance between complexity and flexibility. With this proposed control strategy, zero-voltage switching is kept for all switches on the low-voltage side and half of switches on the high-voltage side. Besides, there is no circulation energy on the low-voltage high-current side for full load operation. A step-by-step design procedure is also included to calculate the converter components and control parameters. Verification of the analysis and design are performed successfully through simulation and n experimental test. Comparisons with some existing control methods are also made experimentally, which highlights that the proposed control strategy is able to achieve comparable performance as the reported optimal current control with simpler calculation and implementation.
A Fast Global Flight Path Planning Algorithm Based on Space Circumscription and Sparse Visibility Graph for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Majeed Abdul , Lee Sungchang
Published: December 2018

This paper proposes a new flight path planning algorithm that finds collision-free, optimal/near-optimal and flyable paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in three-dimensional (3D) environments with fixed obstacles. The proposed algorithm significantly reduces pathfinding computing time without significantly degrading path lengths by using space circumscription and a sparse visibility graph in the pathfinding process. We devise a novel method by exploiting the information about obstacle geometry to circumscribe the search space in the form of a half cylinder from which a working path for UAV can be computed without sacrificing the guarantees on near-optimality and speed. Furthermore, we generate a sparse visibility graph from the circumscribed space and find the initial path, which is subsequently optimized. The proposed algorithm effectively resolves the efficiency and optimality trade-off by searching the path only from the high priority circumscribed space of a map. The simulation results obtained from various maps, and comparison with the existing methods show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and verify the aforementioned claims.
A Fine Frequency Estimation Algorithm Based on Fast Orthogonal Search (FOS) for Base Station Positioning Receivers
Authors: Deng Zhongliang , Mo Jun , Jia Buyun , Bian Xinmei
Published: December 2018

Base station signals have been widely studied as a promising navigation and positioning signal. The time and code division-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (TC-OFDM) signal is a novel communication and navigation fusion signal that can simultaneously implement communication and positioning services. The TC-OFDM signal multiplexes the pseudorandom noise (PRN) code, called positioning code, and the Chinese mobile multimedia broadcasting (CMMB) signal in the same frequency band. For positioning in the TC-OFDM receiver, it is necessary to acquire and track the PRN code phase and the carrier frequency. The tracking performance is directly influenced by the accuracy of the signal acquisition, especially the acquired carrier frequency accuracy. This paper focuses on the fine frequency acquisition of TC-OFDM receivers and proposes a novel fine frequency estimation algorithm, which uses a non-linear modelling method, called fast orthogonal search (FOS), to improve the frequency acquisition accuracy of TC-OFDM receivers. With this algorithm, the PRN code is first stripped off in coarse code phase. Then, the candidate functions at each of the interest frequencies are generated, which consist of pairs of sine and cosine terms. Finally, the FOS algorithm is used to detect the carrier frequency. Simulation and experimental results show that, compared with the current carrier frequency estimation algorithms, the proposed algorithm effectively improves carrier frequency estimation accuracy and then reduces the time to the first fix.
Catalytic Hydrotreatment of Microalgae Biocrude from Continuous Hydrothermal Liquefaction: Heteroatom Removal and Their Distribution in Distillation Cuts
Authors: Haider Muhammad Salman , Castello Daniele , Michalski Karol Michal , Pedersen Thomas Helmer , Rosendahl Lasse Aistrup
Published: December 2018

To obtain drop-in fuel properties from 3rd generation biomass, we herein report the catalytic hydrotreatment of microalgae biocrude, produced from hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of Spirulina. Our contribution focuses on the effect of temperature, initial H2 pressure, and residence time on the removal of heteroatoms (O and N) in a batch hydrotreating setup. In contrast to common experimental protocols for hydrotreating at batch scale, we devised a set of two-level factorial experiments and studied the most influential parameters affecting the removal of heteroatoms. It was found that up to 350 °C, the degree of deoxygenation (de-O) is mainly driven by temperature, whereas the degree of denitrogenation (de-N) also relies on initial H2 pressure and temperature-pressure interaction. Based on this, complete deoxygenation was obtained at mild operating conditions (350 °C), reaching a concurrent 47% denitrogenation. Moreover, three optimized experiments are reported with 100% removal of oxygen. In addition, the analysis by GC-MS and Sim-Dis gives insight to the fuel quality. The distribution of heteroatom N in lower (<340 °C) and higher (>340 °C) fractional cuts is studied by a fractional distillation unit following ASTM D-1160. Final results show that 63–68% of nitrogen is concentrated in higher fractional cuts.
Benefits of a Demand Response Exchange Participating in Existing Bulk-Power Markets
Authors: Durvasulu Venkat , Hansen Timothy M.
Published: December 2018

In most U.S. market sponsored demand response (DR) programs, revenue earned from energy markets has been relatively low compared to DR used for capacity markets and ancillary services. This paper presents an aggregated DR model participating in the bulk-power market as a service through a pool-based entity called demand response exchange (DRX). Using the DRX structure, DR providers can participate in energy markets as a service to benefit bulk-power market entities. The benefits and challenges to each market entity using DR-as-a-service are presented in an extended review. The DRX model in this study is a market entity that operates with the day-ahead market to select DR offers that minimize electric utility payments. A case study was performed using the proposed DRX model on the IEEE 24-bus system, augmented to represent actual bulk-power market prices to study factors that influence utility payments under the DRX-market paradigm. Two high-price days of the PJM market were simulated, and it was shown for a single day on the augmented test case that spending $69,955 for DR-as-a-service results in a reduction of utility payments of $864,199. The day-ahead generator supply curve, network congestion, and DR curtailment were found to be the most influencing factors that impact the benefit of using DR-as-a-service.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a MILD Combustion Chamber for Micro Gas Turbine Applications
Authors: Fortunato Valentina , Giraldo Andreas , Rouabah Mehdi , Nacereddine Rabia , Delanaye Michel , Parente Alessandro
Published: December 2018

In the field of energy production, cogeneration systems based on micro gas turbine cycles appear particularly suitable to reach the goals of improving efficiency and reducing pollutants. Moderate and Intense Low-Oxygen Dilution (MILD) combustion represents a promising technology to increase efficiency and to further reduce the emissions of those systems. The present work aims at describing the behavior of a combustion chamber for a micro gas turbine operating in MILD regime. The performances of the combustion chamber are discussed for two cases: methane and biogas combustion. The combustor performed very well in terms of emissions, especially CO and NO x , for various air inlet temperatures and air-to-fuel ratios, proving the benefits of MILD combustion. The chamber proved to be fuel flexible, since both ignition and stable combustion could be achieved by also burning biogas. Finally, the numerical model used to design the combustor was validated against the experimental data collected. The model performs quite well both for methane and biogas. In particular, for methane the Partially Stirred Reactor (PaSR) combustion model proved to be the best choice to predict both minor species, such as CO, more accurately and cases with lower reactivity that were not possible to model using the Eddy Dissipation Concept (EDC). For the biogas, the most appropriate kinetic mechanism to properly model the behavior of the chamber was selected.
From Integration Profiles to Interoperability Testing for Smart Energy Systems at Connectathon Energy
Authors: Gottschalk Marion , Franzl Gerald , Frohner Matthias , Pasteka Richard , Uslar Mathias
Published: December 2018

The project Integrating the Energy System (IES) Austria recognises interoperability as key enabler for the deployment of smart energy systems. Interoperability is covered in the Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET-Plan) activity A4-IA0-5 and provides an added value because it enables new business options for most stakeholders. The communication of smart energy components and systems shall be interoperable to enable smooth data exchange, and thereby, the on demand integration of heterogeneous systems, components and services. The approach developed and proposed by IES, adopts the holistic methodology from the consortium Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE), established by information technology (IT) vendors in the health sector and standardised in the draft technical report ISO DTR 28380-1, to foster interoperable smart energy systems. The paper outlines the adopted IES workflow in detail and reports on lesson learnt when trial Integration Profiles based on IEC 61850 were tested at the first Connectathon Energy instalment, organised in conjunction with the IHE Connectathon Europe 2018. The IES methodology is found perfectly applicable for smart energy systems and successfully enables peer-to-peer interoperability testing among vendors. The public specification of required Integration Profiles, to be tested at subsequent Connectathon Energy events, is encouraged.
Resilient and Immune by Design Microgrids Using Solid State Transformers
Authors: Sanduleac Mihai , Martins João F. , Ciornei Irina , Albu Mihaela , Toma Lucian , Pires Vitor Fernão , Hadjidemetriou Lenos , Sauba Rooktabir
Published: December 2018

Solid State Transformers (SST) may become, in the near future, key technological enablers for decentralized energy supply systems. They have the potential to unleash new technologies and operation strategies of microgrids and prosumers to move faster towards a low carbon-based economy. This work proposes a paradigm change in the hierarchically and distributed operated power systems where SSTs are used to asynchronously connect the many small low voltage (LV) distribution networks, such as clusters of prosumers or LV microgrids, to the bulk power system. The need for asynchronously coupled microgrids requires a design that allows the LV system to operate independently from the bulk grid and to rely on its own control systems. The purpose of this new approach is to achieve immune and resilient by design configurations that allow maximizing the integration of Local Renewable Energy Resources (L-RES). The paper analyses from the stability point of view, through simplified numerical simulations, the way in which SST-interconnected microgrids can become immune to disturbances that occur in the bulk power system and how sudden changes in the microgrid can damp out at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC), thus achieving better reliability and predictability in both systems and enabling strong and healthy distributed energy storage systems (DESSs). Moreover, it is shown that in a fully inverter-based microgrid there is no need for mechanical or synthetic inertia to stabilize the microgrid during power unbalances. This happens because the electrostatic energy stored in the capacitors connected behind the SST inverter can be used for a brief time interval, until automation is activated to address the power unbalance for a longer term.
Comparison of Power Hardware-in-the-Loop Approaches for the Testing of Smart Grid Controls
Authors: Ebe Falko , Idlbi Basem , Stakic David E. , Chen Shuo , Kondzialka Christoph , Casel Matthias , Heilscher Gerd , Seitl Christian , Bründlinger Roland , Strasser Thomas I.
Published: December 2018

The fundamental changes in the energy sector, due to the rise of renewable energy resources and the possibilities of the digitalisation process, result in the demand for new methodologies for testing Smart Grid concepts and control strategies. Using the Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) methodology is one of the key elements for such evaluations. PHIL and other in-the-loop concepts cannot be considered as plug’n’play and, for a wider adoption, the obstacles have to be reduced. This paper presents the comparison of two different setups for the evaluation of components and systems focused on undisturbed operational conditions. The first setup is a conventional PHIL setup and the second is a simplified setup based on a quasi-dynamic PHIL (QDPHIL) approach which involves fast and continuously steady state load flow calculations. A case study which analyses a simple superimposed voltage control algorithm gives an example for the actual usage of the quasi-dynamic setup. Furthermore, this article also provides a comparison and discussion of the achieved results with the two setups and it concludes with an outlook about further research.
“Embodied Deforestation” as a New EU Policy Debate to Tackle Tropical Forest Loss: Assessing Implications for REDD+ Performance
Authors: Weatherley-Singh Janice , Gupta Aarti
Published: December 2018

The need to tackle international drivers of deforestation has long been acknowledged; but remains little addressed via policy measures. In the European Union (EU), a new policy debate is emerging around the concept of “embodied deforestation”, which targets EU agricultural commodity imports as drivers of deforestation. The notion views deforestation as an externality generated by EU imports associated with tropical deforestation. Our article examines whether this concept represents a shift in tackling international-level drivers of tropical deforestation within EU policy. We also examine, from a networked governance perspective, whether this new debate fuels further fragmentation or rather a move towards a more integrated approach to combating tropical forest loss within EU policy, and what the implications are for other initiatives, such as the climate change related “reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation” (REDD+). Our analysis draws on an extensive analysis of EU policy documents and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders and EU decision-makers. We find that, despite growing debate around the concept of embodied deforestation, policy measures necessary to reduce the impact of EU consumption of agricultural commodities associated with tropical deforestation have not yet been developed. We conclude that “embodied deforestation” remains more an idea than reality within EU policy to date, with the burden of responsibility for addressing international deforestation drivers still largely remaining on developing countries. There is still potential, however, for this debate to lead to a more integrated approach to tackling tropical deforestation within EU policy, if it comes to be seen, together with REDD+, as one of a number of linked approaches to EU efforts to combat deforestation.
Coastal Flood Modeling Challenges in Defended Urban Backshores
Authors: Gallien Timu W. , Kalligeris Nikos , Delisle Marie-Pierre C. , Tang Bo-Xiang , Lucey Joseph T. D. , Winters Maria A.
Published: December 2018

Coastal flooding is a significant and increasing hazard. There are multiple drivers including rising coastal water levels, more intense hydrologic inputs, shoaling groundwater and urbanization. Accurate coastal flood event prediction poses numerous challenges: representing boundary conditions, depicting terrain and hydraulic infrastructure, integrating spatially and temporally variable overtopping flows, routing overland flows and incorporating hydrologic signals. Tremendous advances in geospatial data quality, numerical modeling and overtopping estimation have significantly improved flood prediction; however, risk assessments do not typically consider the co-occurrence of multiple flooding pathways. Compound flooding refers to the combined effects of marine and hydrologic processes. Alternatively, multiple flooding source–receptor pathways (e.g., groundwater–surface water, overtopping–overflow, surface–sewer flow) may simultaneously amplify coastal hazard and vulnerability. Currently, there is no integrated framework considering compound and multi-pathway flooding processes in a unified approach. State-of-the-art urban coastal flood modeling methods and research directions critical to developing an integrated framework for explicitly resolving multiple flooding pathways are presented.
Reply to “Comment on Iavicoli et al. Ethics and Occupational Health in the Contemporary World of Work. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15, 1713”
Authors: Iavicoli Sergio , Valenti Antonio , Gagliardi Diana , Rantanen Jorma
Published: December 2018

The authors would like to extend their thanks for the fruitful comments and suggestions, which are useful for conducting deeper analyses of the ethical concerns related to occupational health. [...]
Drivers of China’s Industrial Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Joint PDA and LMDI Approaches
Authors: Dong Feng , Gao Xinqi , Li Jingyun , Zhang Yuanqing , Liu Yajie
Published: December 2018

As the world’s top carbon-emitting country, China has placed great emphasis on understanding the driving factors of carbon emissions and developing appropriate emissions reduction policies. Due to the obvious variations in carbon emissions among various industries in China, corresponding policies need to be formulated for different industries. Through data envelopment analysis, this study introduced the Shephard distance function into the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) for decomposition analysis, built a carbon emissions decomposition model of 23 industries in China during 2003–2015, and analyzed the impact of 10 factors driving carbon emissions. The main results are as follows. (1) Potential gross domestic production (GDP) is a crucial factor for increasing carbon emissions, whereas potential energy intensity and technological advances of carbon emissions have a significant inhibitory effect on carbon emissions; (2) the technological progress of energy usage and the technological advances of GDP output are manifested by inhibiting carbon emissions at the early stage of development and increasing emissions at the later stage; (3) the structure of coal-based energy consumption is difficult to change in the long term, resulting in a weak effect of energy mix on carbon emissions and an increase in carbon emissions due to the potential energy carbon intensity factor.
Influence of Active Exposure to Tobacco Smoke on Nitric Oxide Status of Pregnant Women
Authors: Chełchowska Magdalena , Ambroszkiewicz Jadwiga , Gajewska Joanna , Mazur Joanna , Lewandowski Leszek , Reśko-Zachara Marzanna , Maciejewski Tomasz M.
Published: December 2018

Smoking tobacco can impair proper vascular endothelial functioning. This is exhibited through reduced nitric oxide synthesis as well as activity due to accompanying oxidative stress. We examined the relationship between nitric oxide and markers of oxidative stress/antioxidant defense in serum of smoking and non-smoking pregnant women. Subjects included 99 healthy pregnant women, who were tested for nitric oxide (NO), endothelial (eNOS) and inducible (iNOS) nitric oxide synthase, total oxidant capacity (TOC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). NO, eNOS, and TAC serum concentrations were significantly lower (p < 0.005), but iNOS (p < 0.05) and TOC (p < 0.001) were higher in smokers than in non-smokers. Multivariate regression analysis showed associations between NO concentration and eNOS, TAC, and smoking status in the whole group of patients. In the model estimated separately for smokers, the highest impact of eNOS (β = 0.375; p = 0.021) and cotinine (β = −0.323; p = 0.037) was indicated for NO concentration. In the model of non-smokers, eNOS (β = 0.291, p = 0.030) and TAC (β = 0.350; p = 0.015) were important for NO level. Smoking during pregnancy could exacerbate oxidative stress, impair the action of nitric oxide synthases, and adversely affect the balance of oxygen and nitrogen metabolism. Relationships between NO concentrations and TAC in the studied women’s blood can confirm the antioxidant nature of nitric oxide.
Comparative Analysis of the Spectral Response to Soil Salinity of Saline-Sodic Soils under Different Surface Conditions
Authors: Ren Jianhua , Zhao Kai , Wu Xiangwen , Zheng Xingming , Li Xiaojie
Published: December 2018

Desiccation cracking is a very common surface soil phenomenon of saline-sodic land. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of salt content on the spectral reflectance of soil with and without desiccation cracks. To achieve our objective, a cracking test was performed using 17 soil samples. Following the tests, crack parameters were extracted, and correlation analysis was then performed between crack parameters and four soil properties: Na+, salinity (total concentration of ions), pH, and electric conductivity (EC). In order to select the optimum spectral measurement method and develop prediction models, spectral response to different soil properties were compared between the cracked soil samples and the comparative soil samples composed of the 2 mm particle size fraction processed by traditional methods. The results indicate that soil salinity dominated cracking propagation with a positive correlation. Since area and volume scattering are closer to what occurs in the field, a greater spectral response to soil properties was found for cracked soil samples relative to the comparative soil samples in the near-infrared and shortwave-infrared regions. The R2 of optimal linear prediction models based on the cracked soil samples were 0.74, 0.67, 0.58, and 0.67 for Na+, salinity, pH, and EC, respectively.
Associations between Water Quality Measures and Chronic Kidney Disease Prevalence in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Kuan Y. , Wu I-Wen , Huang Bo-Ruei , Juang Jih-Gau , Wu Jia-Chyi , Chang Su-Wei , Chang Chung Cheng
Published: December 2018

To determine the relationships between exposure to environmental contaminants in water and chronic kidney disease (CKD), we investigated the associations of 61 water attributes with the prevalence of CKD and End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) using data from 2005 to 2011 from all 22 counties and cities in the main island of Taiwan. We acquired patient information from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database to calculate the age-standardized CKD and ESRD prevalence rates and linked the patients’ residences to the water quality monitoring data, which were sampled periodically for a total of over 45,000 observations obtained from the Taiwan Environmental Water Quality Information Database. The association analysis adjusting for gender, age, and annual effects showed that the zinc (Zn), ammonia, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and dissolved oxygen in rivers were weakly correlated with CKD (τ = 0.268/0.250/0.238/−0.267, p = 6.01×10−6/2.52×10−5/6.05×10−5/3.30×10−5, respectively), but none for ESRD. The importances of Zn and COD in rivers were also demonstrated in a CKD regression model. Moreover, an unusually high CKD prevalence was related to arsenic contamination in groundwater. A further prospective cohort study would improve our understanding of what level of environmental water with risky properties could affect the development of CKD.
Geospatial Methods and Tools for Natural Risk Management and Communications
Authors: Albano Raffaele , Sole Aurelia
Published: December 2018

In the last decade, real-time access to data and the use of high-resolution spatial information have provided scientists and engineers with valuable information to help them understand risk. At the same time, there has been a rapid growth of novel and cutting-edge information and communication technologies for the collection, analysis and dissemination of data, re-inventing the way in which risk management is carried out throughout its cycle (risk identification and reduction, preparedness, disaster relief and recovery). The applications of those geospatial technologies are expected to enable better mitigation of, and adaptation to, the disastrous impact of natural hazards. The description of risks may particularly benefit from the integrated use of new algorithms and monitoring techniques. The ability of new tools to carry out intensive analyses over huge datasets makes it possible to perform future risk assessments, keeping abreast of temporal and spatial changes in hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. The present special issue aims to describe the state-of-the-art of natural risk assessment, management, and communication using new geospatial models and Earth Observation (EO)architecture. More specifically, we have collected a number of contributions dealing with: (1) applications of EO data and machine learning techniques for hazard, vulnerability and risk mapping; (2) natural hazards monitoring and forecasting geospatial systems; (3) modeling of spatiotemporal resource optimization for emergency management in the post-disaster phase; and (4) development of tools and platforms for risk projection assessment and communication of inherent uncertainties.
Targeting Adenosine Receptor Signaling in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Sek Kevin , Mølck Christina , Stewart Gregory D. , Kats Lev , Darcy Phillip K. , Beavis Paul A.
Published: December 2018

The immune system plays a major role in the surveillance and control of malignant cells, with the presence of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) correlating with better patient prognosis in multiple tumor types. The development of ‘checkpoint blockade’ and adoptive cellular therapy has revolutionized the landscape of cancer treatment and highlights the potential of utilizing the patient’s own immune system to eradicate cancer. One mechanism of tumor-mediated immunosuppression that has gained attention as a potential therapeutic target is the purinergic signaling axis, whereby the production of the purine nucleoside adenosine in the tumor microenvironment can potently suppress T and NK cell function. The production of extracellular adenosine is mediated by the cell surface ectoenzymes CD73, CD39, and CD38 and therapeutic agents have been developed to target these as well as the downstream adenosine receptors (A1R, A2AR, A2BR, A3R) to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. This review will discuss the role of adenosine and adenosine receptor signaling in tumor and immune cells with a focus on their cell-specific function and their potential as targets in cancer immunotherapy.
Human Miro Proteins Act as NTP Hydrolases through a Novel, Non-Canonical Catalytic Mechanism
Authors: Peters Daniel T. , Kay Laura , Eswaran Jeyanthy , Lakey Jeremy H. , Soundararajan Meera
Published: December 2018

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles that play a central role in multiple cellular processes, including energy metabolism, calcium homeostasis and apoptosis. Miro proteins (Miros) are “atypical” Ras superfamily GTPases that display unique domain architecture and subcellular localisation regulating mitochondrial transport, autophagy and calcium sensing. Here, we present systematic catalytic domain characterisation and structural analyses of human Miros. Despite lacking key conserved catalytic residues (equivalent to Ras Y32, T35, G60 and Q61), the Miro N-terminal GTPase domains display GTPase activity. Surprisingly, the C-terminal GTPase domains previously assumed to be “relic” domains were also active. Moreover, Miros show substrate promiscuity and function as NTPases. Molecular docking and structural analyses of Miros revealed unusual features in the Switch I and II regions, facilitating promiscuous substrate binding and suggesting the usage of a novel hydrolytic mechanism. The key substitution in position 13 in the Miros leads us to suggest the existence of an “internal arginine finger”, allowing an unusual catalytic mechanism that does not require GAP protein. Together, the data presented here indicate novel catalytic functions of human Miro atypical GTPases through altered catalytic mechanisms.
Interactive Responses of Solanum Dulcamara to Drought and Insect Feeding are Herbivore Species-Specific
Authors: Nguyen Duy , Poeschl Yvonne , Lortzing Tobias , Hoogveld Rick , Gogol-Döring Andreas , Cristescu Simona M. , Steppuhn Anke , Mariani Celestina , Rieu Ivo , Van Dam Nicole M.
Published: December 2018

In nature, plants are frequently subjected to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses, resulting in a convergence of adaptive responses. We hypothesised that hormonal signalling regulating defences to different herbivores may interact with drought responses, causing distinct resistance phenotypes. To test this, we studied the hormonal and transcriptomic responses of Solanum dulcamara subjected to drought and herbivory by the generalist Spodoptera exigua (beet armyworm; BAW) or the specialist Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Colorado potato beetle; CPB). Bioassays showed that the performance of BAW, but not CPB, decreased on plants under drought compared to controls. While drought did not alter BAW-induced hormonal responses, it enhanced the CPB-induced accumulation of jasmonic acid and salicylic acid (SA), and suppressed ethylene (ET) emission. Microarray analyses showed that under drought, BAW herbivory enhanced several herbivore-induced responses, including cell-wall remodelling and the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and secondary metabolites. In contrast, CPB herbivory enhanced several photosynthesis-related and pathogen responses in drought-stressed plants. This may divert resources away from defence production and increase leaf nutritive value. In conclusion, while BAW suffers from the drought-enhanced defences, CPB may benefit from the effects of enhanced SA and reduced ET signalling. This suggests that the fine-tuned interaction between the plant and its specialist herbivore is sustained under drought.
Larval Food Limitation in a Speyeria Butterfly (Nymphalidae): How Many Butterflies Can Be Supported?
Authors: Hill Ryan I. , Rush Cassidi E. , Mayberry John
Published: December 2018

For herbivorous insects the importance of larval food plants is obvious, yet the role of host abundance and density in conservation are relatively understudied. Populations of Speyeria butterflies across North America have declined and Speyeria adiaste is an imperiled species endemic to the southern California Coast Ranges. In this paper, we study the link between the food plant Viola purpurea quercetorum and abundance of its herbivore Speyeria adiaste clemencei to better understand the butterfly’s decline and aid in restoration of this and other Speyeria species. To assess the degree to which the larval food plant limits adult abundance of S. a. clemencei in 2013, we compared adult population counts to population size predicted from a Monte Carlo simulation using data for number of V. pur. quercetorum plants, number of leaves per plant, and leaf area per plant, with lab estimates of leaf area consumed to reach pupal stage on the non-native host V. papilionacea. Results indicated an average estimate of 765 pupae (median = 478), with 77% of the distribution being <1000 pupae. However, this was heavily dependent on plant distribution, and accounting for the number of transect segments with sufficient host to support a pupa predicted 371 pupae. The adult population empirical estimate was 227 individuals (95% CI is 146 to 392), which lies near the first quartile of the simulated distribution. These results indicate that the amount of host available to larvae was more closely linked to adult abundance than the amount of host present, especially when considering assumptions of the analyses. The data also indicate that robust populations require host density well in excess of what is eaten by larvae, in combination with appropriate spacing, to mitigate factors such as competition, starvation from leaving host patches, or unrelated to food plant, such as mortality from drought, predators, parasites, or disease.
Distinctive Expression and Amplification of Genes at 11q13 in Relation to HPV Status with Impact on Survival in Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Hermida-Prado Francisco , Menéndez Sofía T. , Albornoz-Afanasiev Pablo , Granda-Diaz Rocío , Álvarez-Teijeiro Saúl , Villaronga M. Ángeles , Allonca Eva , Alonso-Durán Laura , León Xavier , Alemany Laia , Mena Marisa , Del-Rio-Ibisate Nagore , Astudillo Aurora , Rodríguez René , Rodrigo Juan P. , García-Pedrero Juana M.
Published: December 2018

Clear differences have been established between head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) depending on human papillomavirus (HPV) infection status. This study specifically investigated the status of the CTTN, CCND1 and ANO1 genes mapping at the 11q13 amplicon in relation to the HPV status in HNSCC patients. CTTN, CCND1 and ANO1 protein expression and gene amplification were respectively analyzed by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR in a homogeneous cohort of 392 surgically treated HNSCC patients. The results were further confirmed using an independent cohort of 279 HNSCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The impact on patient survival was also evaluated. CTTN, CCND1 and ANO1 gene amplification and protein expression were frequent in HPV-negative tumors, while absent or rare in HPV-positive tumors. Using an independent validation cohort of 279 HNSCC patients, we consistently found that these three genes were frequently co-amplified (28%) and overexpressed (39–46%) in HPV-negative tumors, whereas almost absent in HPV-positive tumors. Remarkably, these alterations (in particular CTTN and ANO1 overexpression) were associated with poor prognosis. Taken together, the distinctive expression and amplification of these genes could cooperatively contribute to the differences in prognosis and clinical outcome between HPV-positive and HPV-negative tumors. These findings could serve as the basis to design more personalized therapeutic strategies for HNSCC patients.
Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 4—An “Inauspicious” Adipokine—In Serum and Urine of Post-Partum Women with Excessive Gestational Weight Gain and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Patro-Małysza Jolanta , Trojnar Marcin , Skórzyńska-Dziduszko Katarzyna E. , Bartosiewicz Jacek , Oleszczuk Jan , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: December 2018

The exact roles of adipokines in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and obesity are still unclear. The aim of the study was to evaluate fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) concentrations in the serum and urine of women with excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the early post-partum period, with reference to their laboratory test results, body composition, and hydration status. The study subjects were divided into three groups: 24 healthy controls, 24 mothers with EGWG, and 22 GDM patients. Maternal body composition and hydration status were evaluated by the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method. Concentrations of FABP4, leptin, and ghrelin were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Healthy women were characterized by the lowest serum leptin concentrations and by a negative correlation between the serum and urine FABP4 levels. Serum FABP4 levels were the highest in the GDM group. Serum FABP4 and leptin concentrations correlated positively in the GDM group. The EGWG group had the highest degree of BIA disturbances in the early puerperium and positive correlations between the urine FABP4 and serum leptin and ghrelin concentrations. The physiological and pathological significance of these findings requires further elucidation.
The Prognostic Significance of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Radiotherapy
Authors: Cho Yeona , Kim Jun Won , Yoon Hong In , Lee Chang Geol , Keum Ki Chang , Lee Ik Jae
Published: December 2018

Background: To investigate the prognostic value of pre-treatment neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients treated with definitive radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 621 patients who received definitive RT for nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer. An NLR cut-off value of 2.7 was identified using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, with overall survival (OS) as an endpoint. Results: The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) and OS for all patients were 62.3% and 72.1%, respectively. The patients with a high NLR (68%) had a significantly lower 5-year PFS and OS than their counterparts with a low NLR (32%) (PFS: 39.2% vs. 75.8%, p < 0.001; OS: 50.9% vs. 83.8%, p < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis according to primary site, a high NLR also correlated with a lower PFS and OS, except in oropharyngeal cancer, where a high NLR only exhibited a trend towards lower survival. In a multivariate analysis, a high NLR remained an independent prognostic factor for PFS and OS. Conclusion: Head and neck cancer tends to be more aggressive in patients with a high NLR, leading to a poorer outcome after RT. The optimal therapeutic approaches for these patients should be reevaluated, given the unfavorable prognosis.
Development of Phosphatized Calcium Carbonate Biominerals as Bioactive Bone Graft Substitute Materials, Part I: Incorporation of Magnesium and Strontium Ions
Authors: Sethmann Ingo , Luft Cornelia , Kleebe Hans-Joachim
Published: December 2018

Synthetic materials based on calcium phosphate (CaP) are frequently used as bone graft substitutes when natural bone grafts are not available or not suitable. Chemical similarity to bone guarantees the biocompatibility of synthetic CaP materials, whereas macroporosity enables their integration into the natural bone tissue. To restore optimum mechanical performance after the grafting procedure, gradual resorption of CaP implants and simultaneous replacement by natural bone is desirable. Mg and Sr ions released from implants support osteointegration by stimulating bone formation. Furthermore, Sr ions counteract osteoporotic bone loss and reduce the probability of related fractures. The present study aimed at developing porous Ca carbonate biominerals into novel CaP-based, bioactive bone implant materials. Macroporous Ca carbonate biominerals, specifically skeletons of corals (aragonite) and sea urchins (Mg-substituted calcite), were hydrothermally converted into pseudomorphic CaP materials with their natural porosity preserved. Sr ions were introduced to the mineral replacement reactions by temporarily stabilizing them in the hydrothermal phosphate solutions as Sr-EDTA complexes. In this reaction system, Na, Mg, and Sr ions favored the formation of correspondingly substituted β-tricalcium phosphate over hydroxyapatite. Upon dissolution, the incorporated functional ions became released, endowing these CaP materials with bioactive and potentially osteoporotic properties.
Synthesis and Structure Elucidation of N′-(4-Methoxybenzylidene)-5-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carbohydrazide
Authors: Alotaibi Mohammad Hayal , Mohamed Hanan A. , Abdel-Wahab Bakr F. , Hegazy Amany S. , Kariuki Benson M. , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: December 2018

N′-(4-Methoxybenzylidene)-5-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carbohydrazide (3) was synthesized in a yield of 88% from an acid-catalyzed reaction of 5-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3- triazole-4-carbohydrazide and 4-methoxybenzaldehyde in ethanol under reflux for 2.5 h. The structure of 3 was confirmed by the data obtained from infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectroscopy, single crystal X-ray diffraction, and microanalysis.
An Investigation of Surface Corrosion Behavior of Inconel 718 after Robotic Belt Grinding
Authors: Wang Junwei , Xu Jijin , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Ren Xukai , Song Xuefeng , Chen Xiaoqi
Published: December 2018

Surface corrosion resistance of nickel-based superalloys after grinding is an important consideration to ensure the service performance. In this work, robotic belt grinding is adopted because it offers controllable material processing by dynamically controlling process parameters and tool-workpiece contact state. Surface corrosion behavior of Inconel 718 after robotic belt grinding was investigated by electrochemical testing in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution at room temperature. Specimens were characterized by morphology, surface roughness and residual stress systematically. The potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis indicate the corrosion resistance of the specimen surface improves remarkably with the decrease of abrasive particle size. It can be attributed to the change of surface roughness and residual stress. The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) indicates that niobium (Nb) is preferentially attacked in the corrosion process. A plausible electrochemical dissolution behavior for Inconel 718 processed by robotic belt grinding is proposed. This study is of significance for achieving desired corrosion property of work surface by optimizing grinding process parameters.
Evaluating the Predictive Power of Ordination Methods in Ecological Context
Authors: Wildi Otto
Published: December 2018

When striving for the ordination methods best predicting independently measured site factors, the following questions arise: does the optimal choice depend on the kind of biological community analysed? Are there different ordination methods needed to address different site factors? Simultaneously, I explore alternative similarity approaches of entire ordinations, as well as the role of the transformations applied to the scale used in measuring species performance. The combination of methods and data transformations results in 96 alternative solutions for any one data set. These are compared by a graphical display, that is, an ordination of ordinations. The goodness-of-fit of independently measured site factors is assessed by two alternative methods. The resulting 96 performance values serve as independent variables in trend surfaces overlaid to the ordination of ordinations. The results from two real-world data sets indicate that some ordination methods greatly vary with data transformation. Scores close to a binary scale perform best in almost all ordination methods. Methods that intrinsically constrain the range of species scores, such as principal components analysis based on correlation, correspondence analysis (including its detrended version), nonmetric multidimensional scaling, as well as principal coordinates analysis based on the Bray-Curtis distance, always figure among the most successful methods, irrespective of data used.