bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Traffic Load on the Mechanical Characteristics of HDPE Double-Wall Corrugated Pipe
Authors: Fang Hongyuan , Tan Peiling , Du Xueming , Li Bin , Yang Kangjian , Zhang Yunhui
Published: January 2020

The high-density polyethylene (HDPE) double-wall corrugated pipe, which is a kind of flexible pipe, is widely used in municipal drainage networks. The characteristics of the surrounding soil and pipe bed, pipe cover depth, backfill compaction, type of pavement and pavement design, and traffic loads are some of the major factors that affect the stress and deformation of pipes. In this study, the ABAQUS 3D finite element model was used to analyze the influence of backfill compactness, traffic loads, diameter, and hoop stiffness on the mechanical characteristic of an HDPE pipe under traffic loads. A series of full-scale tests were carried out to verify the validity of the simulation results. For the conditions tested, the results showed the following: (1) the Von-Mises stress of the pipe was mainly determined by the earth pressure at the crown, and the stress caused by backfill compaction increased significantly but had a short duration and limited impact on the pipe; (2) traffic load alone had little influence on the mechanical behavior of the pipe: while under the action of the loose backfill in contact with the pipe, the pipes were more sensitive to the traffic load response; (3) the fluctuations in the Von-Mises stress of the pipe mainly depended on the magnitude and speed of the traffic load; (4) for pipes with a small diameter, non-compacted backfill easily caused stress concentration in the pipe, while the degree of backfill compaction had almost the same effect on the distribution of stress for pipes with different hoop stiffness.
Multi-View Interactive Visual Exploration of Individual Association for Public Transportation Passengers
Authors: Lv Di , Zhang Yong , Lin Jiongbin , Wan Peiyuan , Hu Yongli
Published: January 2020

More and more people in mega cities are choosing to travel by public transportation due to its convenience and punctuality. It is widely acknowledged that there may be some potential associations between passengers. Their travel behavior may be working together, shopping together, or even some abnormal behaviors, such as stealing or begging. Thus, analyzing association between passengers is very important for management departments. It is very helpful to make operational plans, provide better services to passengers and ensure public transport safety. In order to quickly explore the association between passengers, we propose a multi-view interactive exploration method that provides five interactive views: passenger 3D travel trajectory view, passenger travel time pixel matrix view, passenger origin-destination chord view, passenger travel vehicle bubble chart view and passenger 2D travel trajectory view. It can explore the associated passengers from multiple aspects such as travel trajectory, travel area, travel time, and vehicles used for travel. Using Beijing public transportation data, the experimental results verified that our method can effectively explore the association between passengers and deduce the relationship.
Mapping and Analyzing the Evolution of the Butangbunasi Landslide Using Landsat Time Series with Respect to Heavy Rainfall Events during Typhoons
Authors: Hölbling Daniel , Abad Lorena , Dabiri Zahra , Prasicek Günther , Tsai Tsai-Tsung , Argentin Anne-Laure
Published: January 2020

Large rainfall-induced landslides are among the most dangerous natural hazards in Taiwan, posing a risk for people and infrastructure. Thus, better knowledge about the evolution of landslides and their impact on the downstream area is of high importance for disaster mitigation. The aim of this study is twofold: (1) to semi-automatically map the evolution of the Butangbunasi landslide in south-central Taiwan using satellite remote sensing data, and (2) to investigate the potential correlation between changes in landslide area and heavy rainfall during typhoon events. Landslide area, as well as temporary landslide-dammed lakes, were semi-automatically identified using object-based image analysis (OBIA), based on 20 Landsat images from 1984 to 2018. Hourly rainfall data from the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau (CWB) was complemented with rainfall data from Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Station data (CHIRPS) to examine the potential relationship between landslide area changes and rainfall as a triggering factor. The OBIA mapping results revealed that the most significant landslide extension happened after typhoon Morakot in 2009. We found a moderate positive relationship between the landslide area change and the duration of the heavy rainfall event, whereas daily precipitation, cumulative rainfall and mean intensity did not present strong significant correlations.
Sound Characterization through Intensity of Acoustic Radiation Measurement: A Study of Persian Musical Instruments
Authors: Tronchin Lamberto , Manfren Massimiliano , Vodola Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

The physics of musical instruments often uses modal analysis as one of the most important methods for describing the behavior of sound chests and their acoustic radiation. However, some studies conducted in Europe (Wogram), Japan (Suzuki) and the United States (Giordano) underlined a very weak correlation between sound radiation and modal analysis. This mismatch required further research. The acoustic parameter intensity of acoustic radiation (IAR) is highly related to the mechanical vibration of the sound source. IAR was able to quantify the sound efficiency of musical instruments, and to relate sound radiation with modal analysis. This paper investigates IAR measured on three Persian stringed musical Instruments, namely the thar, si-thar and santoor. The analysis contributes to the knowledge of stringed musical instruments and sound propagation, since IAR is capable of linking the mechanical vibrations of soundboards with the sound generation of the musical instruments. The IAR results coming from the modal analysis carried out during the study of the instruments are reported herein.
A Comparative Study of Different Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting the Content of Ilmenite in Titanium Placer
Authors: LV Yingli , Le Qui-Thao , Bui Hoang-Bac , Bui Xuan-Nam , Nguyen Hoang , Nguyen-Thoi Trung , Dou Jie , Song Xuan
Published: January 2020

In this study, the ilmenite content in beach placer sand was estimated using seven soft computing techniques, namely random forest (RF), artificial neural network (ANN), k-nearest neighbors (kNN), cubist, support vector machine (SVM), stochastic gradient boosting (SGB), and classification and regression tree (CART). The 405 beach placer borehole samples were collected from Southern Suoi Nhum deposit, Binh Thuan province, Vietnam, to test the feasibility of these soft computing techniques in estimating ilmenite content. Heavy mineral analysis indicated that valuable minerals in the placer sand are zircon, ilmenite, leucoxene, rutile, anatase, and monazite. In this study, five materials, namely rutile, anatase, leucoxene, zircon, and monazite, were used as the input variables to estimate ilmenite content based on the above mentioned soft computing models. Of the whole dataset, 325 samples were used to build the regarded soft computing models; 80 remaining samples were used for the models’ verification. Root-mean-squared error (RMSE), determination coefficient (R2), a simple ranking method, and residuals analysis technique were used as the statistical criteria for assessing the model performances. The numerical experiments revealed that soft computing techniques are capable of estimating the content of ilmenite with high accuracy. The residuals analysis also indicated that the SGB model was the most suitable for determining the ilmenite content in the context of this research.
Deep Learning for Black-Box Modeling of Audio Effects
Authors: Martínez Ramírez Marco A. , Benetos Emmanouil , Reiss Joshua D.
Published: January 2020

Virtual analog modeling of audio effects consists of emulating the sound of an audio processor reference device. This digital simulation is normally done by designing mathematical models of these systems. It is often difficult because it seeks to accurately model all components within the effect unit, which usually contains various nonlinearities and time-varying components. Most existing methods for audio effects modeling are either simplified or optimized to a very specific circuit or type of audio effect and cannot be efficiently translated to other types of audio effects. Recently, deep neural networks have been explored as black-box modeling strategies to solve this task, i.e., by using only input–output measurements. We analyse different state-of-the-art deep learning models based on convolutional and recurrent neural networks, feedforward WaveNet architectures and we also introduce a new model based on the combination of the aforementioned models. Through objective perceptual-based metrics and subjective listening tests we explore the performance of these models when modeling various analog audio effects. Thus, we show virtual analog models of nonlinear effects, such as a tube preamplifier; nonlinear effects with memory, such as a transistor-based limiter and nonlinear time-varying effects, such as the rotating horn and rotating woofer of a Leslie speaker cabinet.
Direct Growth of Antimonene on C-Plane Sapphire by Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Gu Minghui , Li Chen , Ding Yuanfeng , Zhang Kedong , Xia Shunji , Wang Yusheng , Lu Ming-Hui , Lu Hong , Chen Yan-Feng
Published: January 2020

Monolayer antimony (antimonene) has been reported for its excellent properties, such as tuneable band gap, stability in the air, and high mobility. However, growing high quality, especially large-area antimonene, remains challenging. In this study, we report the direct growth of antimonene on c-plane sapphire substrate while using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). We explore the effect of growth temperature on antimonene formation and present a growth phase diagram of antimony. The effect of antimony sources (Sb2 or Sb4) and a competing mechanism between the two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) growth processes and the effects of adsorption and cracking of the source molecules are also discussed. This work offers a new method for growing antimonene and it provides ideas for promoting van der Waals epitaxy.
Dielectric Elastomer Actuator for Soft Robotics Applications and Challenges
Authors: Youn Jung-Hwan , Jeong Seung Mo , Hwang Geonwoo , Kim Hyunwoo , Hyeon Kyujin , Park Jihwan , Kyung Ki-Uk
Published: January 2020

This paper reviews state-of-the-art dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) and their future perspectives as soft actuators which have recently been considered as a key power generation component for soft robots. This paper begins with the introduction of the working principle of the dielectric elastomer actuators. Because the operation of DEA includes the physics of both mechanical viscoelastic properties and dielectric characteristics, we describe theoretical modeling methods for the DEA before introducing applications. In addition, the design of artificial muscles based on DEA is also introduced. This paper reviews four popular subjects for the application of DEA: soft robot hand, locomotion robots, wearable devices, and tunable optical components. Other potential applications and challenging issues are described in the conclusion.
The Carabattola—Vibroacoustical Analysis and Intensity of Acoustic Radiation (IAR)
Authors: Tronchin Lamberto , Manfren Massimiliano , Vodola Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

Among the studies of musical instruments, one important, sometime underestimated discipline, is represented by ethnomusicology. The acoustic analyses on ethnic musical instruments (M.I.) are much more infrequent if compared to those on classical M.I. This article deals with the vibro-acoustic analysis on one of the most unknown ethnic, Italian M.I., i.e., the carabattola (also called battola), which used to be played in Italy until the late 1960s during the Holy Thursday before Easter. The study includes modal analysis and Intensity of Acoustic Radiation measured on an original carabattola, which was played in the Romagna area until the early twentieth century. After a brief overview about the theory of acoustic and vibrational analysis on musical instruments, the Intensity of acoustic radiation and its correlation with modal analysis are recalled, based on previous studies. In the experimental part of the article, the measurements conducted on the carabattola are described. Afterwards, the results obtained both from modal analysis and IAR measurements are analyzed and compared with other measurements previously conducted on musical (particularly percussion) instruments and commented.
Effect of Mechanobiology of Cell Response on Titanium with Multilayered Aluminum Nitride/Tantalum Thin Film
Authors: Huang Mao-Suan , Yu Shang-Yang , Chiang Pao-Chang , Huang Bai-Hung , Saito Takashi , Huang Chien-Chia , Pai Fang-Tzu , Wu Chia-Yu , Lan Wen-Chien
Published: January 2020

In the present study, the piezoelectric aluminum nitride (AlN)/tantalum (Ta) (PAT) thin film was investigated as a biocompatible film and osseointegrated with biomedical devices such as implants. The stress variation on the interaction of cells with the PAT surface was investigated using osteoblast-like cells (MG-63) and fibroblast cells (NIH3T3). A singular behavior was observed on the PAT film with a (002) texture, in which the MG-63 cells were more dispersed and displayed longer and more filopodia than the NIH3T3 cells. Moreover, the MG-63 cells showed ingrowth, adherence, and proliferation on the PAT film surface. The MG-63 cells had more obvious stress variation than the NIH3T3 cells in the differentiation and proliferation. The mechanobiological reaction to cell differentiation and proliferation not only caused osseointegration, but also reduced the surface activation energy, thus enhancing bone remodeling. The formation of a nanopolycrystalline PAT film is believed to enhance the mechanobiological effect, promoting osseointegration.
A Novel GPU-Based Acceleration Algorithm for a Longwave Radiative Transfer Model
Authors: Wang Yuzhu , Zhao Yuan , Jiang Jinrong , Zhang He
Published: January 2020

Graphics processing unit (GPU)-based computing for climate system models is a longstanding research area of interest. The rapid radiative transfer model for general circulation models (RRTMG), a popular atmospheric radiative transfer model, can calculate atmospheric radiative fluxes and heating rates. However, the RRTMG has a high calculation time, so it is urgent to study its GPU-based efficient acceleration algorithm to enable large-scale and long-term climatic simulations. To improve the calculative efficiency of radiation transfer, this paper proposes a GPU-based acceleration algorithm for the RRTMG longwave radiation scheme (RRTMG_LW). The algorithm concept is accelerating the RRTMG_LW in the g- p o i n t dimension. After implementing the algorithm in CUDA Fortran, the G-RRTMG_LW was developed. The experimental results indicated that the algorithm was effective. In the case without I/O transfer, the G-RRTMG_LW on one K40 GPU obtained a speedup of 30.98× over the baseline performance on one single Intel Xeon E5-2680 CPU core. When compared to its counterpart running on 10 CPU cores of an Intel Xeon E5-2680 v2, the G-RRTMG_LW on one K20 GPU in the case without I/O transfer achieved a speedup of 2.35×.
Use of Dynamic FEA for Design Modification and Energy Analysis of a Variable Stiffness Prosthetic Foot
Authors: Tryggvason Heimir , Starker Felix , Lecomte Christophe , Jonsdottir Fjola
Published: January 2020

Different tasks and conditions in gait call for different stiffness of prosthetic foot devices. The following work presents a case study on design modifications of a prosthetic foot, aimed at variable stiffness of the device. The objective is a proof-of-concept, achieved by simulating the modifications using finite element modeling. Design changes include the addition of a controlled damping element, connected both in parallel and series to a system of springs. The aim is to change the stiffness of the device under dynamic loading, by applying a high damping constant, approaching force coupling for the given boundary conditions. The dynamic modelling simulates mechanical test methods used to measure load response in full roll-over of prosthetic feet. Activation of the element during loading of the foot justifies the damped effect. As damping is in contrast to the main design objectives of energy return in prosthetic feet, it is considered important to quantify the dissipated energy in such an element. Our design case shows that the introduction of a damping element, with a high damping constant, can increase the overall rotational stiffness of the device by 50%. Given a large enough damping coefficient, the energy dissipation in the active element is about 20% of maximum strain energy.
On the Nanoscale Mapping of the Mechanical and Piezoelectric Properties of Poly (L-Lactic Acid) Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Thai , Barrau Sophie , Dufay Malo , Tabary Nicolas , Da Costa Antonio , Ferri Anthony , Lazzaroni Roberto , Raquez Jean-Marie , Leclère Philippe
Published: January 2020

The effect of the post-annealing process on different properties of poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibers has been investigated in view of their use in energy-harvesting devices. Polymeric PLLA nanofibers were prepared by using electrospinning and then were thermally treated above their glass transition. A detailed comparison between as-spun (amorphous) and annealed (semi-crystalline) samples was performed in terms of the crystallinity, morphology and mechanical as well as piezoelectric properties using a multi-technique approach combining DSC, XRD, FTIR, and AFM measurements. A significant increase in the crystallinity of PLLA nanofibers has been observed after the post-annealing process, together with a major improvement of the mechanical and piezoelectric properties.
Estimation of Thermal Diffusivity for Greenhouse Soil Temperature Simulation
Authors: Wang Jizhang , Lee Wee Fong , Ling Peter P.
Published: January 2020

In greenhouse energy balance models, the soil thermal parameters are important for evaluating the heat transfer between the greenhouse air and the soil. In this study, the soil thermal diffusivity was estimated from greenhouse soil temperature data using the amplitude, phase-shift, arctangent, logarithmic, and min-max methods. The results showed that the amplitude method and the min-max method performed well in estimating the soil thermal diffusivity. The obtained soil thermal diffusivity was input into a sinusoidal model to determine the greenhouse soil temperature at different soil depths. For greenhouse applications, the daily average soil temperature at different depths was predicted according to the temperature at the surface and the annual mean soil temperature. The model was validated using soil temperature data from summer and winter, when the greenhouse was cooled and heated, respectively.
Forecasting the Project Duration Average and Standard Deviation from Deterministic Schedule Information
Authors: Ballesteros-Pérez Pablo , Cerezo-Narváez Alberto , Otero-Mateo Manuel , Pastor-Fernández Andrés , Zhang Jingxiao , Vanhoucke Mario
Published: January 2020

Most construction managers use deterministic scheduling techniques to plan construction projects and estimate their duration. However, deterministic techniques are known to underestimate the project duration. Alternative methods, such as Stochastic Network Analysis, have rarely been adopted in practical contexts as they are commonly computer-intensive, require extensive historical information, have limited contextual/local validity and/or require skills most practitioners have not been trained for. In this paper, we propose some mathematical expressions to approximate the average and the standard deviation of a project duration from basic deterministic schedule information. The expressions’ performance is successfully tested in a 4100-network dataset with varied activity durations and activity durations variability. Calculations are quite straightforward and can be implemented manually. Furthermore, unlike the Project Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), they allow drawing inferences about the probability of project duration in the presence of several critical and subcritical paths with minimal additional calculation.
Resonant Transmission Through a Single Subwavelength Slit for Varied Metallic Permittivities and Its Modal Orthogonality
Authors: Park Jong-Eon , Choo Hosung , Cho Young-Ki
Published: January 2020

This article investigates resonant transmission phenomena through a single metallic subwavelength slit when the permittivity of a real metal varies. The single metallic slit is utilized as a metal–insulator–metal waveguide, and a mode-matching technique is employed to obtain the transmitted power. The periodic resonant transmission phenomena (in terms of the metallic plate thickness) are solved, and the resonances can be understood by their guide wavelengths. Even when the permittivity of the real metal includes imaginary parts (i.e., metal with loss), the resonant transmittances are obtained. However, the peaks of the transmittances decrease, as the plate thickness increases. The orthogonal relationship of an incomplete orthogonal set is maintained despite metallic loss (given a relatively small amount of loss), due to the complex permittivity of the real metal.
Parameter Optimization for Ship Antiroll Gyros
Authors: Zhu Yuanyuan , Su Shijie , Qian Yuchen , Chen Yun , Tang Wenxian
Published: January 2020

Ship antiroll gyros are a type of equipment used to reduce ships’ roll angle, and their parameters are related to the parameters of a ship and wave, which affect gyro performance. As an alternative framework, we designed a calculation method for roll reduction rate and considered random waves to establish a gyro parameter optimization model, and we then solved it through the bacteria foraging optimization algorithm (BFOA) and pattern search optimization algorithm (PSOA) to obtain optimal parameter values. Results revealed that the two methods could effectively reduce the overall mass and floor space of the antiroll gyro and improved its antirolling effect. In addition, the convergence speed and antirolling effect of the BFOA were better than that of the PSOA.
Remote Speckle-Based Measurements of Backward Brillouin Acoustic Vibrations in Optical Fibers
Authors: Asraf Sagie , Lengenfelder Benjamin , Schmidt Michael , Zalevsky Zeev
Published: January 2020

We propose a novel technique for measurements of Brillouin acoustic vibrations based on temporal tracking of back-reflected speckle patterns. The proposed method holds the potential to enhance some of the limiting factors in Brillouin frequency measurements while yielding increased spatial resolution and shorter scanning times of the inspected fiber. Experimental results show the capabilities of the proposed method are presented, using a two pump-waves configuration.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Axioms in 2019
Authors:   Axioms Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Provincial Differences and Dynamic Changes in Mariculture Efficiency in China: Based on Super-SBM Model and Global Malmquist Index
Authors: Yu Xuan , Hu Qiuguang , Shen Manhong
Published: January 2020

The continued growth in mariculture efficiency in China is vital in ensuring that the country will continue to be the primary source of its own food in the 21st century. A large gap exists between the input and output of mariculture in China’s coastal provinces. Hence, methods to improve mariculture efficiency can be developed by analyzing provincial differences and dynamic changes in mariculture efficiency. These methods are important in solving China’s food security problems. This study uses the super-slacks-based measure model and global Malmquist index to measure the mariculture efficiency scores and their changes in China’s nine coastal provinces from 2004 to 2016. Results suggest that the mariculture efficiencies in Guangxi, Hainan, Fujian, Shandong, and Guangdong are higher than those in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Liaoning, and Hebei. The mariculture efficiency in China increased by 6.45% from 2004 to 2016, and technological progress was the main driving force for this. The authors combine the results with the mariculture characteristics in each province and present the following findings: (1) mariculture scale affects mariculture efficiency; (2) efficient mariculture relies on a good marine ecosystem; (3) policy adjustments significantly affect the development of mariculture; (4) the key to improving mariculture efficiency is enhancing mariculture technology.
Long-Term Effect of Combination of Creatine Monohydrate Plus β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Anabolic/Catabolic Hormones in Elite Male Endurance Athletes
Authors: Fernández-Landa Julen , Fernández-Lázaro Diego , Calleja-González Julio , Caballero-García Alberto , Córdova Alfredo , León-Guereño Patxi , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan
Published: January 2020

Creatine monohydrate (CrM) and β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) are widely studied ergogenic aids. However, both supplements are usually studied in an isolated manner. The few studies that have investigated the effect of combining both supplements on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) and hormone status have reported controversial results. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to determine the effect and degree of potentiation of 10 weeks of CrM plus HMB supplementation on EIMD and anabolic/catabolic hormones. This study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial where participants (n = 28) were randomized into four different groups: placebo group (PLG; n = 7), CrM group (CrMG; 0.04 g/kg/day of CrM; n = 7), HMB group (HMBG; 3 g/day of HMB; n = 7), and CrM-HMB group (CrM-HMBG; 0.04 g/kg/day of CrM plus 3 g/day of HMB; n = 7). Before (baseline, T1) and after 10 weeks of supplementation (T2), blood samples were collected from all rowers. There were no significant differences in the EIMD markers (aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase) among groups. However, we observed significant differences in CrM-HMBG with respect to PLG, CrMG, and HMBG on testosterone (p = 0.006; η2p = 0.454) and the testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C; p = 0.032; η2p = 0.349). Moreover, we found a synergistic effect of combined supplementation on testosterone (CrM-HMBG = −63.85% vs. CrMG + HMBG = −37.89%) and T/C (CrM-HMBG = 680% vs. CrMG + HMBG = 57.68%) and an antagonistic effect on cortisol (CrM-HMBG = 131.55% vs. CrMG + HMBG = 389.99%). In summary, the combination of CrM plus HMB showed an increase in testosterone and T/C compared with the other groups after 10 weeks of supplementation. Moreover, this combination presented a synergistic effect on testosterone and T/C and an antagonistic effect on cortisol compared with the sum of individual or isolated supplementation.
Activation of mGluR5 and NMDA Receptor Pathways in the Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla as a Central Mechanism for Methamphetamine-Induced Pressor Effect in Rats
Authors: Lai Chih-Chia , Fang Chi , Kuo Chung-Yi , Wu Ya-Wen , Lin Hsun-Hsun
Published: January 2020

Acute hypertension produced by methamphetamine (MA) is well known, mainly by the enhancement of catecholamine release from sympathetic terminals. However, the central pressor mechanism of the blood-brain-barrier-penetrating molecule remains unclear. We used radio-telemetry and femoral artery cannulation to monitor the mean arterial pressure (MAP) in conscious free-moving and urethane-anesthetized rats, respectively. Expression of Fos protein (Fos) and phosphorylation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit GluN1 in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) were detected using Western blot analysis. ELISA was carried out for detection of protein kinase C (PKC) activity in the RVLM. MA-induced glutamate release in the RVLM was assayed using in vivo microdialysis and HPLC. Systemic or intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of MA augments the MAP and increases Fos expression, PKC activity, and phosphorylated GluN1-ser 896 (pGluN1-ser 896) in the RVLM. However, direct microinjection of MA into the RVLM did not change the MAP. Unilateral microinjection of a PKC inhibitor or a metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antagonist into the RVLM dose-dependently attenuated the i.c.v. MA-induced increase in MAP and pGluN1-ser 896. Our data suggested that MA may give rise to glutamate release in the RVLM further to the activation of mGluR5-PKC pathways, which would serve as a central mechanism for the MA-induced pressor effect.
Identification of miRNAs Enriched in Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Serum Samples of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Ozawa Patricia M. M. , Vieira Evelyn , Lemos Débora S. , Souza Ingrid L. Melo , Zanata Silvio M. , Pankievicz Vânia C. , Tuleski Thalita R. , Souza Emanuel M. , Wowk Pryscilla F. , Urban Cícero de Andrade , Kuroda Flavia , Lima Rubens S. , Almeida Rodrigo C. , Gradia Daniela F. , Cavalli Iglenir J. , Cavalli Luciane R. , Malheiros Danielle , Ribeiro Enilze M. S. F.
Published: January 2020

MicroRNAs derived from extracellular vesicles (EV-miRNAs) are circulating miRNAs considered as potential new diagnostic markers for cancer that can be easily detected in liquid biopsies. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing analysis as a screening strategy to identify EV-miRNAs derived from serum of clinically well-annotated breast cancer (BC) patients from the south of Brazil. EVs from three groups of samples (healthy controls (CT), luminal A (LA), and triple-negative (TNBC)) were isolated from serum using a precipitation method and analyzed by RNA-seq (screening phase). Subsequently, four EV-miRNAs (miR-142-5p, miR-150-5p, miR-320a, and miR-4433b-5p) were selected to be quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) in individual samples (test phase). A panel composed of miR-142-5p, miR-320a, and miR-4433b-5p distinguished BC patients from CT with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.8387 (93.33% sensitivity, 68.75% specificity). The combination of miR-142-5p and miR-320a distinguished LA patients from CT with an AUC of 0.9410 (100% sensitivity, 93.80% specificity). Interestingly, decreased expression of miR-142-5p and miR-150-5p were significantly associated with more advanced tumor grades (grade III), while the decreased expression of miR-142-5p and miR-320a was associated with a larger tumor size. These results provide insights into the potential application of EVs-miRNAs from serum as novel specific markers for early diagnosis of BC.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Coumarin Derivatives from Different Starting Materials
Authors: Lončarić Melita , Gašo-Sokač Dajana , Jokić Stela , Molnar Maja
Published: January 2020

The study of coumarin dates back to 1820 when coumarin was first extracted from tonka bean by Vogel. Compounds containing coumarin backbone are a very important group of compounds due to their usage in pharmacy and medicine. Properties and biological activities of coumarin derivatives have a significant role in the development of new drugs. Therefore, many different methods and techniques are developed in order to synthesize coumarin derivatives. Coumarin derivatives could be obtained from different starting materials with various methods but with big differences in yield. This review summarized various methods, techniques and reaction conditions for synthesis of coumarins from different compounds such as aldehydes, phenols, ketones and carboxylic acids.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Biosensors in 2019
Authors:   Biosensors Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Brain Science in 2019
Authors:   Brain Science Editorial Office
Published: January 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Neurophysiological Vigilance Characterisation and Assessment: Laboratory and Realistic Validations Involving Professional Air Traffic Controllers
Authors: Sebastiani Marika , Di Flumeri Gianluca , Aricò Pietro , Sciaraffa Nicolina , Babiloni Fabio , Borghini Gianluca
Published: January 2020

Vigilance degradation usually causes significant performance decrement. It is also considered the major factor causing the out-of-the-loop phenomenon (OOTL) occurrence. OOTL is strongly related to a high level of automation in operative contexts such as the Air Traffic Management (ATM), and it could lead to a negative impact on the Air Traffic Controllers’ (ATCOs) engagement. As a consequence, being able to monitor the ATCOs’ vigilance would be very important to prevent risky situations. In this context, the present study aimed to characterise and assess the vigilance level by using electroencephalographic (EEG) measures. The first study, involving 13 participants in laboratory settings allowed to find out the neurophysiological features mostly related to vigilance decrements. Those results were also confirmed under realistic ATM settings recruiting 10 professional ATCOs. The results demonstrated that (i) there was a significant performance decrement related to vigilance reduction; (ii) there were no substantial differences between the identified neurophysiological features in controlled and ecological settings, and the EEG-channel configuration defined in laboratory was able to discriminate and classify vigilance changes in ATCOs’ vigilance with high accuracy (up to 84%); (iii) the derived two EEG-channel configuration was able to assess vigilance variations reporting only slight accuracy reduction.
A New Treatment Opportunity for DIPG and Diffuse Midline Gliomas: 5-ALA Augmented Irradiation, the 5aai Regimen
Authors: Kast Richard E. , Michael Alex P. , Sardi Iacopo , Burns Terry C. , Heiland Tim , Karpel-Massler Georg , Kamar Francois G. , Halatsch Marc-Eric
Published: January 2020

Prognosis for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) and generally for diffuse midline gliomas (DMG) has only marginally improved over the last ~40 years despite dozens of chemotherapy and other therapeutic trials. The prognosis remains invariably fatal. We present here the rationale for a planned study of adding 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to the current irradiation of DIPG or DMG: the 5aai regimen. In a series of recent papers, oral 5-ALA was shown to enhance standard therapeutic ionizing irradiation. 5-ALA is currently used in glioblastoma surgery to enable demarcation of overt tumor margins by virtue of selective uptake of 5-ALA by neoplastic cells and selective conversion to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), which fluoresces after excitation by 410 nm (blue) light. 5-ALA is also useful in treating glioblastomas by virtue of PpIX’s transfer of energy to O2 molecules, producing a singlet oxygen that in turn oxidizes intracellular DNA, lipids, and proteins, resulting in selective malignant cell cytotoxicity. This is called photodynamic treatment (PDT). Shallow penetration of light required for PpIX excitation and resultant energy transfer to O2 and cytotoxicity results in the inaccessibility of central structures like the pons or thalamus to sufficient light. The recent demonstration that keV and MeV photons can also excite PpIX and generate singlet O2 allows for reconsideration of 5-ALA PDT for treating DMG and DIPG. 5-ALA has an eminently benign side effect profile in adults and children. A pilot study in DIPG/DMG of slow uptitration of 5-ALA prior to each standard irradiation session—the 5aai regimen—is warranted.
On the Role of Contrast Polarity: In Response to van der Helm’s Comments
Authors: Pinna Baingio , Conti Livio
Published: January 2020

In this work, we discussed and counter-commented van der Helm’s comments on our previous paper (Pinna and Conti, Brain Sci., 2019, 9, 149), where we demonstrated unique and relevant visual properties imparted by contrast polarity in eliciting amodal completion. The main question we addressed was: “What is the role of shape formation and perceptual organization in inducing amodal completion?” To answer this question, novel stimuli were studied through Gestalt experimental phenomenology. The results demonstrated the domination of the contrast polarity against good continuation, T-junctions, and regularity. Moreover, the limiting conditions explored revealed a new kind of junction next to the T- and Y-junctions, respectively responsible for amodal completion and tessellation. We called them I-junctions. The results were theoretically discussed in relation to the previous approaches and in the light of the phenomenal salience imparted by contrast polarity. In counter-commenting van der Helm’s comments we went into detail of his critiques and rejected all of them point-by-point. We proceeded by summarizing hypotheses and discussion of the previous work, then commenting on each critique through old and new phenomena and clarifying the meaning of our previous conclusions.
Creativity and Personality Traits as Foreign Language Acquisition Predictors in University Linguistics Students
Authors: Novikova Irina A. , Berisha Nadezhda S. , Novikov Alexey L. , Shlyakhta Dmitriy A.
Published: January 2020

Foreign (second) language (FL/SL) proficiency is one of the most important competencies for a modern person, and is necessary for both professional and personal fulfillment. The purpose of this study is to consider and compare personality traits and creativity as predictors of success in foreign language acquisition (FLA). The sample includes 128 (105 female and 23 male) first- and second-year university linguistics students. Creativity is measured by the Abbreviated Torrance Test for Adults (ATTA). The FFM personality traits are measured by the Russian NEO Five-Factor Inventory adaptation by S. Biryukov and M. Bodunov. To assess the level of FL proficiency, we used a traditional academic achievement indicator (the semester’s final grades in English), as well as the English teachers’ assessment of the level of language proficiency of their students according to the “Foreign Language Proficiency Scale” (10 indicators and total score). Descriptive statistics methods and a multiple regression analysis were used to process the data in the R software environment, version 3.5.2. The findings of our research showed that creativity indicators have a stronger but contradictory impact on the level of FL proficiency compared to personality traits. We suggest that teachers, most likely, lack knowledge on the manifestations of student creativity in the process of FL learning.
Fine Motor Precision Tasks: Sex Differences in Performance with and without Visual Guidance across Different Age Groups
Authors: Liutsko Liudmila , Muiños Ruben , Tous Ral Josep Maria , Contreras María José
Published: January 2020

Previous studies have reported certain sex differences in motor performance precision. The aim of the present study was to analyze sex differences in fine motor precision performance for both hands under different test conditions. Fine motor tasks were performed by 220 Spanish participants (ages: 12–95), tracing over the provided models – lines of 40 mm for both hands, two sensory conditions (PV—proprioceptive-visual; P—proprioceptive only) and three movement types (F—frontal, T—transversal, and S—sagittal). Differences in line length (the task focused on precision) were observed through MANOVA analysis for all test conditions, both sexes and different age groups. Sex differences in precision were observed in F and T movement types (statistically significance level and higher Cohens’ d were observed in condition with vision). No statistically significant differences were observed for both hands and sensory conditions in sagittal movement. Sex differences in fine motor precision were more frequently observed in the PV sensory condition in frontal movement and less in sagittal movement.
Proposal of an Assessment Method of the Impact Sound Insulation of Lightweight Floors
Authors: Nowotny Łukasz , Nurzyński Jacek
Published: January 2020

Lightweight floors are in line with a sustainable construction concept and have become increasingly popular in residential buildings. The acoustic performance of such floors plays a pivotal role in the overall building quality rating. There is, however, no clear and complete method to predict their impact sound insulation. A new approximation method and new acoustic indicators—equivalent weighted normalized impact sound pressure levels for lightweight floors—are proposed and outlined in this article. The prediction procedure and indicator values were initially validated on the basis of laboratory measurements taken for different lightweight floors with the same well-defined floor covering. These preliminary analyses and comparisons show that the proposed method is promising and should be fully developed on the basis of further research.
Nanodrug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Pantshwa Jonathan M. , Kondiah Pierre P. D. , Choonara Yahya E. , Marimuthu Thashree , Pillay Viness
Published: January 2020

Despite advances achieved in medicine, chemotherapeutics still has detrimental side effects with ovarian cancer (OC), accounting for numerous deaths among females. The provision of safe, early detection and active treatment of OC remains a challenge, in spite of improvements in new antineoplastic discovery. Nanosystems have shown remarkable progress with impact in diagnosis and chemotherapy of various cancers, due to their ideal size; improved drug encapsulation within its interior core; potential to minimize drug degradation; improve in vivo drug release kinetics; and prolong blood circulation times. However, nanodrug delivery systems have few limitations regarding its accuracy of tumour targeting and the ability to provide sustained drug release. Hence, a cogent and strategic approach has focused on nanosystem functionalization with antibody-based ligands to selectively enhance cellular uptake of antineoplastics. Antibody functionalized nanosystems are (advanced) synthetic candidates, with a broad range of efficiency in specific tumour targeting, whilst leaving normal cells unaffected. This article comprehensively reviews the present status of nanosystems, with particular emphasis on nanomicelles for molecular diagnosis and treatment of OC. In addition, biomarkers of nanosystems provide important prospects as chemotherapeutic strategies to upsurge the survival rate of patients with OC.
Chronic Non-Malignant Pain in Patients with Cancer Seen at a Timely Outpatient Palliative Care Clinic
Authors: Hui David , Abdelghani Eman , Chen Joseph , Dibaj Shiva , Zhukovsky Donna , Dev Rony , Tanco Kimberson , Haider Ali , Azhar Ahsan , Reddy Akhila , Epner Daniel , Arthur Joseph , Dalal Shalini , Heung Yvonne , Reddy Suresh , De La Cruz Maxine , Liu Diane , Bruera Eduardo
Published: January 2020

Palliative care is seeing cancer patients earlier in the disease trajectory with a multitude of chronic issues. Chronic non-malignant pain (CNMP) in cancer patients is under-studied. In this prospective study, we examined the prevalence and management of CNMP in cancer patients seen at our supportive care clinic for consultation. We systematically characterized each pain type with the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and documented current treatments. The attending physician made the pain diagnoses according to the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) task force classification. Among 200 patients (mean age 60 years, 69% metastatic disease, 1-year survival of 77%), the median number of pain diagnosis was 2 (IQR 1–2); 67 (34%, 95% CI 28–41%) had a diagnosis of CNMP; 133 (67%) had cancer-related pain; and 52 (26%) had treatment-related pain. In total, 12/31 (39%) patients with only CNMP and 21/36 (58%) patients with CNMP and other pain diagnoses were on opioids. There was a total of 94 CNMP diagnoses among 67 patients, including 37 (39%) osteoarthritis and 20 (21%) lower back pain; 30 (32%) were treated with opioids. In summary, CNMP was common in the timely palliative care setting and many patients were on opioids. Our findings highlight the need to develop clinical guidelines for CNMP in cancer patients to standardize its management.
Chemically Bonded N-PDI-P/WO3 Organic-Inorganic Heterojunction with Improved Photoelectrochemical Performance
Authors: Feng Cheng , Mi Xihong , Zhong Dingwen , Zhang Weiming , Liu Yongping , Fan Dayong , Li Ming , Hai Jiefeng , Lu Zhenhuan
Published: January 2020

The chemical bonding of bandgap adjustable organic semiconductors with inorganic semiconducting materials is effective in constructing a high-performance heterogeneous photoanode. In this study, a new asymmetric perylene diimide derivative molecule (N-PDI-P) was synthesized by connecting tert-butoxycarbonyl on an N-site at one end of a PDI molecule through methylene and connecting naphthalene directly onto the other end. This molecule was bonded onto the WO3 film surface, thereby forming the photoanode of organic-inorganic heterojunction. Under light illumination, the photocurrent density of chemically bonded N-PDI-P/WO3 heterojunction was twofold higher than that of physically adhered heterojunction for photoelectrochemical water oxidation at 0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). Energy band structure and charge transfer dynamic analyses revealed that photogenerated electron carriers on the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) of an N-PDI-P molecule can be transferred to the conduction band of WO3. The charge transfer and separation rates were accelerated considerably after the chemical bond formed at the N-PDI-P/WO3 interface. The proposed method provides a new way for the design and construction of organic-inorganic composite heterojunction.
Unique Features of a New Baeyer–Villiger Monooxygenase from a Halophilic Archaeon
Authors: Niero Mattia , Righetto Irene , Beneventi Elisa , Polverino de Laureto Patrizia , Fraaije Marco Wilhelmus , Filippini Francesco , Bergantino Elisabetta
Published: January 2020

Type I Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are flavin-dependent monooxygenases that catalyze the oxidation of ketones to esters or lactones, a reaction otherwise performed in chemical processes by employing hazardous and toxic peracids. Even though various BVMOs are extensively studied for their promising role in industrial biotechnology, there is still a demand for enzymes that are able to retain activity at high saline concentrations. To this aim, and based on comparative in silico analyses, we cloned HtBVMO from the extremely halophilic archaeon Haloterrigena turkmenica DSM 5511. When expressed in standard mesophilic cell factories, proteins adapted to hypersaline environments often behave similarly to intrinsically disordered polypeptides. Nevertheless, we managed to express HtBVMO in Escherichia coli and could purify it as active enzyme. The enzyme was characterized in terms of its salt-dependent activity and resistance to some water–organic-solvent mixtures. Although HtBVMO does not seem suitable for industrial applications, it provides a peculiar example of an alkalophilic and halophilic BVMO characterized by an extremely negative charge. Insights into the behavior and structural properties of such salt-requiring may contribute to more efficient strategies for engineering the tuned stability and solubility of existing BVMOs.