bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NAD(P)H Quinone Dehydrogenase 1 Ablation Inhibits Activation of the Phosphoinositide 3‐Kinase/Akt Serine/Threonine Kinase and Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase/Extracellular Signal‐Regulated Kinase Pathways and Blocks Metabolic Adaptation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Dimri Manali , Humphries Ashley , Laknaur Archana , Elattar Sawsan , Lee Tae Jin , Sharma Ashok , Kolhe Ravindra , Satyanarayana Ande
Published: June 2019

Cancer cells undergo metabolic adaptation to sustain uncontrolled proliferation. Aerobic glycolysis and glutaminolysis are two of the most essential characteristics of cancer metabolic reprogramming. Hyperactivated phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt serine/threonine kinase (Akt) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways play central roles in cancer cell metabolic adaptation given that their downstream effectors, such as Akt and c‐Myc, control most of the glycolytic and glutaminolysis genes. Here, we report that the cytosolic flavoprotein, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (Nqo1), is strongly overexpressed in mouse and human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Knockdown of Nqo1 enhanced activity of the serine/threonine phosphatase, protein phosphatase 2A, which operates at the intersection of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways and dephosphorylates and inactivates pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1, Akt, Raf, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase, and ERK1/2. Nqo1 ablation also induced the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog, a dual protein/lipid phosphatase that blocks PI3K/Akt signaling, through the ERK/cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein/c‐Jun pathway. Together, Nqo1 ablation triggered simultaneous inhibition of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways, suppressed the expression of glycolysis and glutaminolysis genes and blocked metabolic adaptation in liver cancer cells. Conversely, Nqo1 overexpression caused hyperactivation of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways and promoted metabolic adaptation. Conclusion: In conclusion, Nqo1 functions as an upstream activator of both the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways in liver cancer cells, and Nqo1 ablation blocked metabolic adaptation and inhibited liver cancer cell proliferation and HCC growth in mice. Therefore, our results suggest that Nqo1 may function as a therapeutic target to inhibit liver cancer cell proliferation and inhibit HCC.
Liver Injury and Failure in Critical Illness
Authors: Horvatits Thomas , Drolz Andreas , Trauner Michael , Fuhrmann Valentin
Published: June 2019

The frequency of acquired liver injury and failure in critical illness has been significantly increasing over recent decades. Currently, liver injury and failure are observed in up to 20% of patients in intensive care units and are associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Secondary forms of liver injury in critical illness are divided primarily into cholestatic, hypoxic, or mixed forms. Therefore, sufficient knowledge of underlying alterations (e.g., hemodynamic, inflammatory, or drug induced) is key to a better understanding of clinical manifestations, prognostic implications, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic options of acquired liver injury and failure. This review provides a structured approach for the evaluation and treatment of acquired liver injury and failure in critically ill patients.
After the peak water: the increasing influence of rock glaciers on alpine river systems
Authors: Brighenti Stefano , Tolotti Monica , Bruno Maria Cristina , Engel Michael , Wharton Geraldene , Cerasino Leonardo , Mair Volkmar , Bertoldi Walter
Published: June 2019

Human‐accelerated climate change is quickly leading to glacier‐free mountains, with consequences for the ecology and hydrology of alpine river systems. Water origin (i.e., glacier, snowmelt, precipitation, and groundwater) is a key control on multiple facets of alpine stream ecosystems, because it drives the physico‐chemical template of the habitat in which ecological communities reside and interact and ecosystem processes occur. Accordingly, distinct alpine stream types and associated communities have been identified. However, unlike streams fed by glaciers (i.e., kryal), groundwater (i.e., krenal), and snowmelt/precipitation (i.e., rhithral), those fed by rock glaciers are still poorly documented. We characterized the physical and chemical features of these streams and investigated the influence of rock glaciers on the habitat template of alpine river networks. We analysed two subcatchments in a deglaciating area of the Central European Alps, where rock glacier‐fed, groundwater‐fed, and glacier‐fed streams are all present. We monitored the spatial, seasonal, and diel variability of physical conditions (i.e., water temperature, turbidity, channel stability, and discharge) and chemical variables (electrical conductivity, major ions, and trace element concentrations) during the snowmelt, glacier ablation, and flow recession periods of two consecutive years. We observed distinct physical and chemical conditions and seasonal responses for the different stream types. Rock glacial streams were characterized by very low and constant water temperatures, stable channels, clear waters, and high concentrations of ions and trace elements that increased as summer progressed. Furthermore, one rock glacier strongly influenced the habitat template of downstream waters due to high solute export, especially in late summer under increased permafrost thaw. Given their unique set of environmental conditions, we suggest that streams fed by thawing rock glaciers are distinct river habitats that differ from those normally classified for alpine streams. Rock glaciers may become increasingly important in shaping the hydroecology of alpine river systems under continued deglaciation.
A review of health‐related outcomes from community pharmacist interventions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Barefield Kimberly L. , DeBellis Heather F.
Published: June 2019

Currently, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the world and is predicted to be the third leading cause by the year 2020. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the expanding role of community pharmacists in the detection and management of patients with COPD. Pharmacists in the community setting can improve outcomes in patients with COPD by minimizing risk factors through smoking cessation interventions, prevention of disease by evaluating immunization history and early detection by providing spirometry. In addition, these pharmacists are well‐positioned for initiating medication therapy management (MTM) services, reducing noncompliance by counseling on proper medication use to ensure adherence and correct inhalation technique, as well as participating in transition of care. There is evidence that pharmacists can support other health care professionals with appropriate treatment recommendations, reducing overall direct and indirect health care costs. In summary, medications are an important tool in managing COPD, with adherence being critically important for these patients, and community pharmacists are an accessible health care professional able to perform needed medication and wellness related interventions that can improve patient outcomes.
Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor levels among HIV‐exposed uninfected infants at the time of HIV PCR testing – findings from a tertiary healthcare facility in Pretoria, South Africa
Authors: Mazanderani Ahmad Haeri , Murray Tanya Y , Sherman Gayle G , Snyman Tracy , George Jaya , Avenant Theunis , Goga Ameena E , Pepper Michael S , du Plessis Nicolette
Published: June 2019

Introduction

To date, very little programmatic data has been published regarding serial antiretroviral (ARV) levels in infants exposed to maternal treatment and/or infant prophylaxis during the first months of life. Such data provide the opportunity to describe the proportion of infants exposed to virologically suppressive levels of ARVs and to gauge adherence to the prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) programme.

Methods

From August 2014 to January 2016, HIV‐exposed infants born at Kalafong Provincial Tertiary Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa were enrolled as part of an observational cohort study. Plasma samples from HIV‐exposed uninfected infants were obtained at birth, 6‐weeks, 10‐weeks and 14‐weeks of age and quantitative efavirenz (EFV) and nevirapine (NVP) drug level testing performed using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, irrespective of maternal ARV regimen. Descriptive analysis of EFV and NVP levels in relation to self‐reported maternal and infant ARV exposure was performed. EFV levels >500 ng/mL and NVP levels >100 ng/mL were reported based on studies suggesting that trough levels above these thresholds are associated with virological suppression and PMTCT respectively.

Results

Among 66 infants exposed to maternal EFVin utero, 29 (44%) had virologically suppressive plasma EFV levels at birth, with a median level of 1665 ng/mL (IQR: 1094 to 3673). Among infants who were exclusively breastfed at 6‐, 10‐ and 14 weeks, 13/48 (27%), 5/25 (25%) and 0/21 (0%) had virologically suppressive EFV levels. Among 64 infants whose mothers reported administering daily infant NVP at time of their 6‐week HIV PCR test, only 45 (70%) had NVP levels above the minimum prophylactic trough level.

Conclusions

During the first 10‐weeks after delivery, a quarter of breastfed infants born to women on an EFV‐containing treatment regimen maintained virologically suppressive EFV plasma levels. This finding highlights the importance of both careful monitoring of ARV side effects and repeat HIV PCR after the first few months of life among HIV‐exposed uninfected infants. As 30% of infants had inadequate NVP plasma levels at 6‐weeks of age, adherence counselling to caregivers regarding infant prophylaxis needs to be enhanced to further reduce mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV.
Characterization of gelatinase produced by Antarctic Mrakia sp.
Authors: Yuivar Yassef , Alcaino Jennifer , Cifuentes Victor , Baeza Marcelo
Published: June 2019

In the present study, 20 psychrotolerant yeast species isolated from the soils of King George Island in the sub‐Antarctic region were evaluated for the production of extracellular gelatinase, an enzyme with high potential for applications in diverse areas, such as food and medicine. The production of extracellular gelatinase was confirmed in the yeasts Metschnikowia sp., Leucosporidium fragarium, and Mrakia sp., the last one being the yeast in which the highest gelatinase activity was detected. The enzyme was purified from cultures of Mrakia sp., and the effect of different physical–chemical factors on its activity was determined. The gelatinase produced by Mrakia sp. would correspond to a protein of relative molecular weight (rMW) 37,000, which displayed the highest activity at 36°C, pH 7.0, 10 mM CaCl
2, and 5 mM ZnSO
4.
Non‐destructive determination of strawberry fruit and juice quality parameters using ultraviolet, visible, and near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Włodarska Katarzyna , Szulc Julia , Khmelinskii Igor , Sikorska Ewa
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The development of rapid methods for the determination of the soluble solids content (SSC) and total phenolic content (TPC) in fruit juices is of great interest. Soluble solids content is related to sensory attributes, whereas TPC is related to the antioxidant capacity of juices. The aim of this study was to develop and optimize the calibration models for the prediction of the SSC and TPC of strawberry juices from the spectra of fruit and juices.

RESULTS

Near infrared (NIR) spectra were measured for strawberry fruit and ultraviolet (UV), visible (VIS), and NIR spectra were measured for juices. The partial least squares regression models were validated using the test sample set and their predictive ability was evaluated on the basis of determination coefficients (R2P) and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP). For SSC the models with high predictive ability were obtained using spectra of fruit (R2P = 0.929, RMSEP = 0.46%) or juices (R2P = 0.979, RMSEP = 0.25%) in the NIR range. The optimal models for TPC were obtained using NIR spectra of fruit (R2P = 0.834, RMSEP = 130.8 mg GA L−1) or UV–VIS–NIR spectra of juices (R2P = 0.844, RMSEP = 126.7 mg GA L−1).

CONCLUSION

The results show the potential of spectroscopy for predicting quality parameters of strawberry juices from the juice spectra itself or non‐destructively from the fruit spectra. They may contribute to the development of fruit sorting systems to optimize their use in juice production, as well as fast‐screening methods for quality control of juices. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Changes in chemical profile of Cascade hop cones according to the growing area
Authors: Rodolfi Margherita , Chiancone Benedetta , Liberatore Claudia Maria , Fabbri Andrea , Cirlini Martina , Ganino Tommaso
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The growing area has a substantial effect on plants, affecting secondary metabolism. For hops, different authors have studied the effect of growing area on the chemical composition of cones with the aim of verifying and understanding the changes in hop characters. Despite the scant literature the subject receives increasing attention by brewers and hop growers. The present study aimed to characterize, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC‐UV), cones of hop (Humulus lupulus L.) cultivar Cascade. Plant material was obtained from nine different areas of Italy and compared with Cascade samples grown in the United States, Germany and Slovenia.

RESULTS

Differences in bitter acids and xanthohumol content were observed. Nevertheless, no correlation between bitter acids and xanthohumol production, on the one hand, and rainfall, temperatures and latitude, on the other hand, were observed in our samples. The Slovenia samples were richer in molecules that confer hoppy, woody and flower notes; USA2 samples were more characterized by woody, earthy, grassy and floral aroma, quite different characters if compared to USA1, which had the lowest presence of grassy aromatic compounds. In the Italian samples, TRENTINO was the genotype most characterized by limonene presence.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study are indicative of the importance for hop users to know and characterize hops coming from different growing regions. The study pays special attention to the characterization of the differences in chemical characters of Cascade hop in Italy, where hop cultivation has developed only recently, but is in continuous expansion. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of tree fostering on soil health and microbial biomass under different land use systems in the Central Himalayas
Authors: Bargali Surendra Singh , Padalia Kirtika , Bargali Kiran
Published: June 2019

This study evaluated the impact of predominant land uses on the physico‐chemical and biological properties of soils along an altitudinal gradient in Indian Central Himalaya to enhance the scientific knowledge and identify suitable land use pattern. Soil samples were collected from six predominant agricultural land uses including (a) open cropland, (b) cropland with multiple tree species (C + mT), (c) cropland with single tree species, (d) crop near rhizosphere of trees, (e) home gardens (HGs), and (f) agriculturally discarded land (ADL). The physico‐chemical properties showed the significant differences with land use systems and altitude. Soil texture varied from sandy loam to clayey loam with altitude. The minimum bulk density and higher porosity were recorded for the HG system whereas water holding capacity, moisture, pH, C, oil carbon stock, N, soil nitrogen stock, and P in the C + mT system. Soil microbial biomass carbon (16–397 μg g−1) and soil microbial biomass nitrogen (28–68 μg g−1) were significantly higher in C + mT and lowest under open cropland. The highest microbial biomass was recorded in the lower altitudinal region of Tarai, and the lowest was recorded in the higher altitudinal region. Across the seasons, soil microbial biomass was maximum during the rainy season and minimum during the winter season. Interestingly, ADL also showed significant contribution in soil microbial biomass carbon and soil microbial biomass nitrogen and could be used for crop production in the future. This study concludes that good soil health, higher amount of microbial biomass, and better soil qualities occurred in tree planted soils than in open crop lands, mainly attributed to the greater availability of organic matter, litter diversity, and fine roots.
Changing views of the pathophysiology of Parkinsonism
Authors: Wichmann Thomas
Published: June 2019

Studies of the pathophysiology of parkinsonism (specifically akinesia and bradykinesia) have a long history and primarily model the consequences of dopamine loss in the basal ganglia on the function of the basal ganglia/thalamocortical circuit(s). Changes of firing rates of individual nodes within these circuits were originally considered central to parkinsonism. However, this view has now given way to the belief that changes in firing patterns within the basal ganglia and related nuclei are more important, including the emergence of burst discharges, greater synchrony of firing between neighboring neurons, oscillatory activity patterns, and the excessive coupling of oscillatory activities at different frequencies. Primarily focusing on studies obtained in nonhuman primates and human patients with Parkinson's disease, this review summarizes the current state of this field and highlights several emerging areas of research, including studies of the impact of the heterogeneity of external pallidal neurons on parkinsonism, the importance of extrastriatal dopamine loss, parkinsonism‐associated synaptic and morphologic plasticity, and the potential role(s) of the cerebellum and brainstem in the motor dysfunction of Parkinson's disease. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Frequency and phenotypic spectrum of KMT2B dystonia in childhood: A single‐center cohort study
Authors: Carecchio Miryam , Invernizzi Federica , Gonzàlez‐Latapi Paulina , Panteghini Celeste , Zorzi Giovanna , Romito Luigi , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Galosi Serena , Reale Chiara , Zibordi Federica , Joseph Agnel P. , Topf Maya , Piano Carla , Bentivoglio Anna Rita , Girotti Floriano , Morana Paolo , Morana Benedetto , Kurian Manju A. , Garavaglia Barbara , Mencacci Niccolò E. , Lubbe Steven J. , Nardocci Nardo
Published: June 2019

Background

Childhood‐onset dystonia is often genetically determined. Recently, KMT2B variants have been recognized as an important cause of childhood‐onset dystonia.

Objective

To define the frequency of KMT2B mutations in a cohort of dystonic patients aged <18 years at onset, the associated clinical and radiological phenotype, and the natural history of disease.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing or customized gene panels were used to screen a cohort of 65 patients who had previously tested negative for all other known dystonia‐associated genes.

Results

We identified 14 patients (21.5%) carrying KMT2B variants, of which 1 was classified as a variant of unknown significance. We also identified 2 additional patients carrying pathogenic mutations in GNAO1 and ATM. Overall, we established a definitive genetic diagnosis in 23% of cases. We observed a spectrum of clinical manifestations in KMT2B variant carriers, ranging from generalized dystonia to short stature or intellectual disability alone, even within the same family. In 78.5% of cases, dystonia involved the lower limbs at onset, with later caudocranial generalization. Eight patients underwent pallidal DBS with a median decrease of Burke‐Fahn‐Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale‐Motor score of 38.5% in the long term. We also report on 4 asymptomatic carriers, suggesting that some KMT2B mutations may be associated with incomplete disease penetrance.

Conclusions

KMT2B mutations are frequent in childhood‐onset dystonia and cause a complex neurodevelopmental syndrome, often featuring growth retardation and intellectual disability as additional phenotypic features. A dramatic and long‐lasting response to DBS is characteristic of DYT‐KMT2B dystonia. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A novel homozygous initiation codon variant associated with infantile alpha‐Bcrystallinopathy in a Chinese family
Authors: Ma Keze , Luo Dong , Tian Tian , Li Ning , He Xiaoguang , Rao Chunbao , Zhong Baimao , Lu Xiaomei
Published: June 2019

Background

Due to inconsistencies with reported myofibrillar myopathy (MFM), including autosomal dominant inheritance, late onset and a slowly progressive course, the severe, recessively inherited form of CRYAB (alpha‐B crystallin) gene‐related infantile MFM has been suggested. Here, we report an infant in a Chinese family with fatal neonatal‐onset hypertonic MFM with a novel CRYAB homozygous variant (c.3G > A (p.Met1?)).

Methods

Muscle biopsy indicated that muscle fibers showed a uniformly small diameter, cell atrophy, and visible focal muscle fiber degeneration and necrosis consistent with myogenic myopathy. We performed the whole exome sequencing of pathogenic genes and identified it as MFM.

Results

The proband presented with profound muscle stiffness, progressive respiratory distress and a concurrent abnormal increase in myocardial enzymogram, and the patient died in the 17th month of life. Muscle biopsy and electron microscopy results were consistent with ultramicroscopic myogenic damage and pathological changes. Mutation analysis of the proband identified a novel rare homozygous mutation in the initiation codon of the CRYAB gene, which was inherited from currently asymptomatic, heterozygous carrier parents, and his heterozygous biological brother is unaffected.

Conclusions

This article reports one infant with CRYAB‐related neonatal onset MFM with a novel homozygous variant in CRYAB. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of infantile alpha‐Bcrystallinopathy in the Chinese population.
A novel antipodal Vivaldi antenna loaded by linear array of sandglass‐type directors for wideband radiation characteristics improvement
Authors: Mao Jing‐Yao , Peng Lin , Ma Jing , Shi Bin , Zhao Qi‐Xiang , Deng Xiao‐Fang , Li Xiao‐Feng , Jiang Xing , Li Si‐Min
Published: June 2019

Antipodal Vivaldi antenna (AVA) with five sandglass‐type director elements is proposed in this research for radiation characteristics improvement. The impedance bandwidth of the proposed antenna ranges from 2.85 to 12 GHz (9.15 GHz, 123.2%). The five director elements have different sizes and they form a symmetrical linear array in front of the antipodal Vivaldi antenna. Therefore, the director elements are responsible for secondary radiations of different frequencies, thereafter, the gain improvement of the AVA is achieved in a broad frequency band. In the 2.85 to 12 GHz frequency band, the antenna gain is increased by 1 to 2.65 dBi and the 3 dB beamwidths are reduced. Thus, a high gain AVA is achieved with gains of 6.52 to 11.55 dBi in the whole frequency band. A prototype of the proposed antenna is fabricated and measured, and the simulated and measured results agree well with each other.
Ultrawideband elliptical microstrip antenna for terahertz applications
Authors: Singhal Sarthak
Published: June 2019

An elliptical microstrip antenna for ultrawideband applications in terahertz (THz) frequency range is proposed. It comprises a microstrip feedline and a partial rectangular ground plane. It has an operating bandwidth of 0.46‐5.46 THz and a peak realized gain of 12 dB. It is simulated by using both high‐frequency structure simulator (HFSS) and Computer Simulation Technology Microwave Studio (CST MWS) simulators. It has distorted omnidirectional radiation patterns across the entire band of operation.
Intra‐laminar toughening mechanisms to enhance impact damage tolerance of 2D woven composite laminates via yarn‐level fiber hybridization and fiber architecture
Authors: Dalfi Hussein , Katnam Kali B. , Potluri Prasad
Published: June 2019

Advanced composites are widely used in primary and secondary structural applications, for example, aerospace, automotive, marine, and renewable energy sectors. But it is well recognized that the impact resistance and damage tolerance of composite laminates are in general poor, which is a major challenge for optimizing structural designs. In this regard, an experimental study is conducted for enhancing the damage tolerance of 2D woven composite laminates by exploring yarn‐level fiber hybridization. Hybrid yarns are produced by combing high‐strength fibers, that is, S‐glass, and high‐toughness fibers, that is, polypropylene [PP], and using commingling and core‐wrapping processes. Using the hybrid yarns, 2D fabrics, that is, with 5H satin, 2/2 twill, and 2/2 basket architectures, are weaved, and subsequently hybrid S‐glass/PP/epoxy laminates are manufactured via vacuum assisted resin infusion. The low velocity impact response and energy absorption of the hybrid laminates are investigated by drop‐weight impact tests at different energy levels, that is, 15 J, 25 J, 35 J, and 50 J. The damage tolerance is studied by compression‐after‐impact (CAI) tests, measuring the residual compressive strength of the damaged laminates. Furthermore, the failure modes are investigated using scanning electron microscopy for identifying damage mechanisms in the hybrid laminates after the impact and CAI tests. The impact response and damage tolerance of the 5H satin, 2/2 twill, and 2/2 basket fabric laminates are compared with that of noncrimp‐fabric laminates produced with (ie, S‐glass/PP yarns) and without (ie, S‐glass yarns) yarn‐level hybridization. It is shown that yarn‐level hybridization and fiber architecture significantly affect the impact behavior and damage tolerance of the 2D woven S‐glass/PP/epoxy hybrid laminates investigated. The microscopy studies show that intra‐yarn, inter‐yarn, inter‐lamina failure mechanisms can in general be introduced by combining yarn‐level fiber hybridization and fiber architecture for modifying failure and energy dissipation mechanisms under low velocity impact and hence the damage tolerance of composite laminates.
Thymoquinone alleviates renal interstitial fibrosis and kidney dysfunction in rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Hosseinian Sara , Shahraki Samira , Ebrahimzadeh Bideskan Alireza , Shafei Mohammad Naser , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza , Soukhtanloo Mohammad , Rahmani Farzad , Khajavi Rad Abolfazl
Published: June 2019

Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) causes severe renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Because of many pharmacologic properties of thymoquinone (TQ), in this study, the effects of TQ against kidney fibrosis and dysfunction were investigated in rats with UUO. Forty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Sham operated, UUO, and the animals with UUO treated with losartan, captopril, or TQ. Collagen IV and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 expressions, interstitial fibrosis, histological changes, and kidney function were assessed. UUO markedly increased renal expression of TGF‐β1 and collagen I and induced interstitial fibrosis (p < .001). Losartan, captopril, or TQ significantly downregulated the expression of these fibrotic markers and interstitial fibrosis (p < .01–p < .001). In UUO group, serum levels of urea and creatinine and protein excretion rate significantly increased, but glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urine osmolarity showed a significant decrease (p < .001–p < .05). Administration of captopril and TQ caused no significant change in serum urea and protein excretion rate. Unlike losartan and captopril, TQ caused no significant alteration in GFR compared with Day 1. Losartan caused significant increases in serum urea and creatinine but significant decrease in urine osmolarity. TQ could be regarded as a potent therapeutic agent for treatment of UUO‐induced kidney fibrosis and dysfunction.
Fixed‐time output‐feedback consensus tracking control for second‐order multiagent systems
Authors: Zou An‐Min , Li Wenhua
Published: June 2019

This paper is concerned with the problem of fixed‐time consensus tracking control for a class of second‐order multiagent systems under an undirected communication graph. A distributed output‐feedback fixed‐time consensus tracking control scheme is proposed to make the states of all individual agents simultaneously track a time‐varying reference state even when the reference state is available only to a subset of the group members and only output measurements are available for feedback. Homogeneous Lyapunov function and homogeneity property are employed to show that the control scheme can guarantee the consensus tracking errors converging the origin in finite time which is bounded by a fixed constant independent of initial conditions. Numerical simulations are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control law.
Composite adaptive control with fast convergence for multilayer neural network
Authors: Jiang Tao , Lin Defu , Song Tao
Published: June 2019

A composite adaptive control (CAC) that combines the benefits of direct and indirect adaptive controls has better parameter adaptation and control response. Multilayer neural networks (NNs) can be employed to enhance a model's representation capacity, but previous composite adaptive approaches cannot easily train the model due to its nonlinearities. A novel CAC is therefore developed in this study to tackle the above limitations. A modified robust version is adopted by focusing on the direct adaptive part to enhance robustness of adaption. Then, the indirect parameter adaptive law is improved by adopting a small learning rate in which a multistep adaption update is executed in one control interval. Moreover, multistep prediction errors are implemented to guarantee the consistency of the approximation errors, and an experience replay technique is adopted to attenuate the requirement of persistent excitation conditions. These improvements not only accelerate the convergence process but also smoothen the updating of NN parameters. Given that a nonlinear plant with MIMO strict‐feedback structure is considered, the proposed CAC is integrated into the backstepping framework. The uniformly bounded property of the tracking errors and the approximation errors is proven by Lyapunov theory. The superiority of the proposed method and the roles of these improvements are demonstrated by comparative simulations.
The combinatorics of the colliding bullets
Authors: Broutin Nicolas , Marckert Jean‐François
Published: June 2019

The finite colliding bullets problem is the following simple problem: consider a gun, whose barrel remains in a fixed direction; let (Vi)1 ≤ i ≤ n be an i.i.d. family of random variables with uniform distribution on [0,1]; shoot n bullets one after another at times 1,2,…,n, where the ith bullet has speed Vi. When two bullets collide, they both annihilate. We give the distribution of the number of surviving bullets, and in some generalization of this model. While the distribution is relatively simple (and we found a number of bold claims online), our proof is surprisingly intricate and mixes combinatorial and geometric arguments; we argue that any rigorous argument must very likely be rather elaborate.
A green ideology in Asian emerging economies: From environmental policy and sustainable development
Authors: Khan Syed Abdul Rehman , Sharif Arshian , Golpîra Hêriş , Kumar Anil
Published: June 2019

This panel study investigates the relationship between green logistics indices, economic, environmental, and social factors in the perspective of Asian emerging economies. This study adopted Fully Modified OLS (FMOLS) Model and Dynamic OLS (DOLS) Model methods to test the research hypothesis, catering the problem of endogeneity and serial correlation. The results suggest that logistics operations, particularly LPI2 (efficiency of customs clearance processes), LPI4 (quality of logistics services), and LPI5 (trade and transport‐related infrastructure), are positively and significantly correlated with per capita income, manufacturing value added and trade openness, whereas greater logistics operations are negatively associated with social and environmental problems including, climate change, global warming, carbon emissions, and poisoning atmosphere. In addition, human health is badly affected by heavy smog, acid rainfall, and water pollution. The findings further extend and reveal that political instability, natural disaster, and terrorism are also a primary cause of poor economic growth and environmental sustainability with poor trade and logistics infrastructure. There is very limited empirical work presented in the literature using renewable energy and green ideology to solve macro‐level social and environmental problems, and this study will assist the policy makers and researchers to understand the importance of the green concept in improving countries' social, economic, and environmental performance.
Maximum diversity weighting for biomarkers with application in HIV‐1 vaccine studies
Authors: He Zonglin , Fong Youyi
Published: June 2019

While studying the association between risk of HIV‐1 infection and vaccine‐elicited immune responses in preventative HIV‐1 vaccine recipients, we encountered a need to combine a collection of biomarkers in an unsupervised fashion with the goal of preserving signal diversity within that collection. Inspired by methods for weighting protein sequences from the biological sequence analysis literature, we propose novel methods for weighting biomarkers, which we call maximum diversity weights. These weights are defined as the weights that maximize measures of signal diversity within a collection of biomarkers. While the optimization problems do not admit analytical solutions, they are convex and hence can be solved efficiently using iterative search algorithms. Through Monte Carlo studies and a real data example from HIV‐1 vaccine research, we show that using maximum diversity weights in association studies can lead to an increase in power over other commonly used weights such as uniform weights or principal component‐based weights.
Novel Amphiphiles and Their Applications for Different Purposes with Special Emphasis on Polymeric Surfactants
Authors: Chowdhury Suman , Rakshit Atanu , Acharjee Animesh , Saha Bidyut
Published: June 2019

Amphiphiles or surfactants are widely known for its reducing power of interfacial tension and extraordinary rheological properties. Among the various classes of surfactants gemini surfactants, biosurfactants and polymeric surfactants are remarkable and distinguishable among the others for their structural diversity and profitable usefulness. Primarily, the performance of any surfactant can be determined by HLB (Hydrophile Lipophile Balance) value, an empirical parameter. This review attempts to clarify some of the terminology used in literature by providing illustration of classification, features and diverse applications of different surfactants.
Fabrication of Layered Double Hydroxide/Silica Foam Nanocomposites and Their Application for Removing Pb(II) and Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Zhang Fengrong , Han Dandan , Guo Qianqian , Hou Wanguo
Published: June 2019

In the current work, nanocomposites of Mg−Al and Mg−Fe layered double hydroxides (LDHs) anchored on silica foam (SF), denoted as MAL/SF and MFL/SF, respectively, were fabricated using a two‐step route. The obtained LDHs/SF nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM, EDS, elemental mapping, and N2 adsorption‐desorption techniques. Sorption of the heavy‐metal Pb(II) and Cr(VI) on the LDHs/SF was determined at 25 °C and pH 5.5 using a batch technique. In comparison with bulk Mg−Al and Mg−Fe LDHs, the LDHs in the MAL/SF and MFL/SF exhibit significantly enhanced sorption capacities. In addition, the LDHs/SF nanocomposites show a good recyclability for removing heavy metals. The construction of LDHs/SF nanocomposites is an effective strategy for improving the sorption capacity of LDHs, and the nanocomposites are potential sorbents for wastewater treatment.
A new position weight correlation coefficient for consensus ranking process without ties
Authors: Plaia Antonella , Buscemi Simona , Sciandra Mariangela
Published: June 2019

Preference data represent a particular type of ranking data where a group of people give their preferences over a set of alternatives. The traditional metrics between rankings do not take into account the importance of swapping elements similar among them (element weights) or elements belonging to the top (or to the bottom) of an ordering (position weights). Following the structure of the τx proposed by Emond and Mason and the class of weighted Kemeny–Snell distances, a proper rank correlation coefficient is defined for measuring the correlation among weighted position rankings without ties. The one‐to‐one correspondence between the weighted distance and the rank correlation coefficient holds, analytically speaking, using both equal and decreasing weights. In order to determine the consensus ranking among rankings, related to a set of subjects, the new coefficient is maximized modifying suitably a branch‐and‐bound algorithm proposed in literature.
Coupled fatigue‐corrosion life estimation of reinforced concrete beam: Numerical versus experimental approach
Authors: Verma Manoj , Mishra Shambhu Sharan
Published: June 2019

This paper deals with the fatigue life of corroded reinforced concrete (RC) T‐beam. A fracture mechanics‐based formula incorporating reduction in cross section and nominal strength of reinforcement is developed for determining the fatigue life of a RC beam. A simplified model considering rebar fatigue damage was employed for numerical modeling. In the numerical investigation, the mathematical model was implemented in ANSYS workbench. In the experimental investigation, different degrees of corrosion were induced to the beam reinforcement by using the impressed current technique (ICT). After that, the beams were tested for fatigue by structural actuator subjecting them to three‐point loading arrangement. The fatigue lives of corroded bars were also examined experimentally after removing the bars from the tested beams. It was found that the difference between the fatigue lives obtained from the numerical and experimental models compared well. As the corrosion level increased, fatigue life also decreased. All the beams failed due to fatigue fracture of steel bars under cyclic loading. This paper aims to present an easy to implement numerical method to estimate coupled fatigue‐corrosion life of a RC T‐beam so that the requirements of tedious, time‐consuming, and costly physical testing for determination of coupled fatigue‐corrosion life can be eliminated.
Effect of Thomson and thermal loading due to laser pulse in a magneto‐thermo‐elastic porous medium with energy dissipation
Authors: Abd‐Elaziz Elsayed M. , Othman Mohamed I. A.
Published: June 2019

The present work attempts to investigate the influence of the Thomson heating and the Fourier's heat conduction, in the presence of a magnetic field, on half‐space thermo‐electricity solid with voids. The material is heated by a non‐Gaussian laser beam with pulse duration of 0.23 ps. The heat conduction equation is affected by the Thomson coefficient. A constant Thomson coefficient, instead of traditionally a constant Seebeck coefficient, was assumed. The charge density of the induced electric current is taken as a function of time. The basic governing equations are modified by using Green–Naghdi theory of type‐III. A normal mode method is proposed to analyze the problem and obtain numerical solutions. The results of the physical quantities have been illustrated graphically by a comparison between two values of time, with and without void parameters, as well as with and without Thomson coefficient.
Fits to non-supersymmetric SO(10) models with type I and II seesaw mechanisms using renormalization group evolution
Authors: Ohlsson Tommy , Pernow Marcus
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We consider numerical fits to non-supersymmetric SO(10)-based models in which neutrino mass is generated by the type-I or type-II seesaw mechanism or a combination of both. The fits are performed with a sophisticated top-down procedure, taking into account the renormalization group equations of the gauge and Yukawa couplings, integrating out relevant degrees of freedom at their corresponding mass scales, and using recent data for the Standard Model observables. We find acceptable fits for normal neutrino mass ordering only and with neutrino mass generated by either type-I seesaw only or a combination of types I and II seesaw in which type-I seesaw is dominant. Furthermore, we find predictions from the best fit regarding the small neutrino masses, the effective neutrinoless double beta decay mass, and the leptonic CP-violating phase. Finally, we show that the fits are rather insensitive to the chosen value of the unification scale.
The Mitcham Score: quantifying students’ descriptions of technology
Authors: Svenningsson Johan
Published: June 2019

A central issue when measuring students’ attitudes toward an object is the children’s understanding of that object, in this case, technology. Studies have shown that schoolchildren often describe technology narrowly as different kinds of technological objects; more specifically, modern electrical objects. This may mean that we have been measuring students’ attitudes toward modern technological objects for more than 30 years. This study intends to research what other aspects students potentially describe, when describing technology, and how the descriptions can be implemented in attitudes toward technology research. To visualize and analyze different aspects of technology, Carl Mitcham’s philosophical framework of the manifestations of technology is used. The deductive method used for analysis quantifies students’ descriptions of technology, for use in attitude, and other quantitative, studies. In this study, descriptions of technology and technology education from 164 students (aged 12–15) are analyzed, classified and quantified within Mitcham’s typology (technology as Object–Activities–Knowledge–Volition). The student descriptions are compared to the typology and students score a point for every one of the four aspects of technology they describe. The sum of aspects in the description is named The Mitcham Score. The results of this study show that students can describe technology in a broad way using all four aspects of Mitcham’s typology. In line with previous studies, the most common way is to describe technology as objects and activities using the objects. Technological knowledge has not been in focus in previous studies of student descriptions. In this study, 44.5% of the students mention technological knowledge in their descriptions of technology. Measurement using the Mitcham Score provides a method to study both students’ concepts of technology and the factors that might affect this. The Mitcham Score is potentially one more factor to use in analyzing students’ attitudinal profiles. The method is sufficiently reliable and enables a broad understanding of students’ attitudes.
Assessment of a Simplified Correlation Between Wettability Measurement and Dispersion/Coagulation Potency of Oxide Particles in Ferrous Alloy Melt
Authors: Nakajima Keiji , Mu Wangzhong , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: June 2019

This article seeks to demonstrate a direct and simplified correlation between the measurement of the wettability and the agglomeration potency of the inclusion particles in liquid ferrous alloy. The established methodology has been validated by the agreement between the calculated coagulation coefficient of Al2O3 particles and the experimental data in the open literature. Subsequently, the coagulation coefficient of Al2O3, MgO, and Ti2O3 particles in ferrous alloy melts was evaluated quantitatively by the proposed method using the actual experimental data of contact angle and surface tension. Meanwhile, the effect of the matrix composition has been investigated by comparing the Hamaker constant and coagulation coefficient between Ti2O3/pure iron and Ti2O3/low-carbon steel systems. It is noted that the change of coagulation coefficient associated with the contact angle is caused by the formation of a new phase at the oxide/metal interface at the high temperature. The present work aims to provide a deep understanding of the connection between inclusion motion behavior in the liquid alloy and the high temperature interfacial phenomenon.
Proteomic analysis of differentially abundant proteins in the embryo and endosperm of Givotia moluccana (L.) Sreem
Authors: Pullaiahgari Durgeshwar , Meena Rajesh Kumar , Tirupaati Swaroopa Rani , Gudipalli Padmaja
Published: June 2019

Proteome analysis of embryo and endosperm of Givotia moluccana, a promising angiosperm tree species was carried out using two-dimensional electrophoresis combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight to identify differentially abundant proteins and their possible functions. The study revealed the presence of 492 protein spots in the embryo and 432 in the endosperm, and the relative abundance of 44 spots varied significantly between the two. Of the 21 functionally characterized protein spots, 14.3% were involved in metabolism and energy, 28.6% in protein destination and storage, 14.3% in defense and stress and 19% in cell growth and division. The embryo-specific protein ATP-dependent zinc metalloprotease FtsH is predicted to be involved in chloroplast biogenesis and the endosperm-specific protein hydroxyacyl-ACP dehydratase in fatty acid synthesis. These results suggested that the seeds have proteins required for germination and for stress responses.
The Benefits of Enterprise Architecture in Organizational Transformation
Authors: Niemi Eetu , Pekkola Samuli
Published: June 2019

Today, as organizations constantly adjust their activities to meet ever-changing circumstances, continuous business transformation is taking place. However, planning and steering this transformation can be a daunting task as complexity has been built into the organization over the years. Enterprise Architecture (EA) has been widely adapted as a planning and governance approach to manage the complexity and constant change, and to align the organization toward a common goal. This article studies the EA benefit-realization process by clarifying how EA benefits are realized. Specifically, the focus is on the strategies, resources, and practices which the EA benefits stem from. The findings, derived from an in-depth case study, show that the EA benefit-realization process constitutes a long, intertwined chain of activities. Organizations benefit from EA through various means: from the initiation, when comprehensive understanding starts to form, until years later, when measurable outcomes such as cost savings materialize. Suggestions on what to incorporate into EA programs are presented.
Evolutionary multiobjective optimization: open research areas and some challenges lying ahead
Authors: Coello Coello Carlos A. , González Brambila Silvia , Figueroa Gamboa Josué , Castillo Tapia Ma Guadalupe , Hernández Gómez Raquel
Published: June 2019

Evolutionary multiobjective optimization has been a research area since the mid-1980s, and has experienced a very significant activity in the last 20 years. However, and in spite of the maturity of this field, there are still several important challenges lying ahead. This paper provides a short description of some of them, with a particular focus on open research areas, rather than on specific research topics or problems. The main aim of this paper is to motivate researchers and students to develop research in these areas, as this will contribute to maintaining this discipline active during the next few years.