bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robot Motion Control via an EEG-Based Brain–Computer Interface by Using Neural Networks and Alpha Brainwaves
Authors: Korovesis Nikolaos , Kandris Dionisis , Koulouras Grigorios , Alexandridis Alex
Published: November 2019

Modern achievements accomplished in both cognitive neuroscience and human–machine interaction technologies have enhanced the ability to control devices with the human brain by using Brain–Computer Interface systems. Particularly, the development of brain-controlled mobile robots is very important because systems of this kind can assist people, suffering from devastating neuromuscular disorders, move and thus improve their quality of life. The research work presented in this paper, concerns the development of a system which performs motion control in a mobile robot in accordance to the eyes’ blinking of a human operator via a synchronous and endogenous Electroencephalography-based Brain–Computer Interface, which uses alpha brain waveforms. The received signals are filtered in order to extract suitable features. These features are fed as inputs to a neural network, which is properly trained in order to properly guide the robotic vehicle. Experimental tests executed on 12 healthy subjects of various gender and age, proved that the system developed is able to perform movements of the robotic vehicle, under control, in forward, left, backward, and right direction according to the alpha brainwaves of its operator, with an overall accuracy equal to 92.1%.
Focusing Arc-Array Bistatic Synthetic Aperture Radar Data Based on Keystone Transform
Authors: Huang Pingping , Li Kai , Xu Wei , Tan Weixian , Gao Zhiqi , Li Yachao
Published: November 2019

Arc-array synthetic aperture radar (AA-SAR) has become a novel imaging scheme for full azimuth observation. However, the exiting arc-array monostatic SAR system is placed on a single platform and is easy to detect. Arc-array bistatic SAR (AA-BiSAR) with a stationary transmitter is proposed in this paper, which can obtain high data acquisition efficiency and reduce vulnerability of arc-array monostatic SAR. Furthermore, since the azimuth resolution with full azimuth observation is not related to the location of the stationary transmitter, the transmitter can be placed far away from the receiver. Compared with imaging algorithms for other modes, the key points of AA-BiSAR imaging algorithms are a square root in the bistatic slant range equation and an arc synthetic array in azimuth. According to the imaging geometry of AA-BiSAR, a novel imaging approach for AA-BiSAR based on keystone transform (KT) is proposed, and the KT implements range-cell migration correction (RCMC) in conditions of trigonometric function under square root in the range history and arc synthetic array in azimuth via reformatting the AA-BiSAR raw data. Besides presenting the proposed imaging approach, a complete resolution analysis of AA-BiSAR is given. Results of numerical simulation experiments on point targets validate the proposed imaging approach.
Coordinated Frequency Stabilization of Wind Turbine Generators and Energy Storage in Microgrids with High Wind Power Penetration
Authors: Kang Moses , Yoon Gihwan , Hong Seonri , Park Jinhyeong , Kim Jonghoon , Baek Jongbok
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a coordinated control scheme for wind turbine generators (WTGs) and energy storage in microgrids with high wind power penetration. The proposed scheme aimed to reduce the system frequency deviation caused by variations in wind power and loads. To stabilize the frequency, the WTG and energy storage system (ESS) are used for kinetic energy generation and electrical energy storage, respectively. When the WTG contributes excessively to frequency stabilization in the microgrid with a high wind power penetration, the system frequency may fluctuate considerably. Thus, it is necessary to adjust the contribution of a WTG and to share it with other sources. To achieve our objective, we proposed a coordinated control scheme between the WTG and ESS that shares their releasable and absorbable energies. The coordinated control consistently calculated the releasable and absorbable energies of the WTG and ESS and determined weight factors related to the energy ratios. Accordingly, the weight factors improved the ability of providing supporting frequency stabilization of the WTG and ESS by increasing the stored energy utilization. The performance of the scheme was investigated using MATLAB Simulink Electrical. The results show that the proposed coordinated control successfully stabilized the system frequency by calculating the appropriate contributions required from the WTG and ESS.
A Method to Identify Lithium Battery Parameters and Estimate SOC Based on Different Temperatures and Driving Conditions
Authors: Zheng Yongliang , He Feng , Wang Wenliang
Published: November 2019

State of charge (SOC) plays a significant role in the battery management system (BMS), since it can contribute to the establishment of energy management for electric vehicles. Unfortunately, SOC cannot be measured directly. Various single Kalman filters, however, are capable of estimating SOC. Under different working conditions, the SOC estimation error will increase because the battery parameters cannot be estimated in real time. In order to obtain a more accurate and applicable SOC estimation than that of a single Kalman filter under different driving conditions and temperatures, a second-order resistor capacitor (RC) equivalent circuit model (ECM) of a battery was established in this paper. Thereafter, a dual filter, i.e., an unscented Kalman filter–extended Kalman filter (UKF–EKF) was developed. With the EKF updating battery parameters and the UKF estimating the SOC, UKF–EKF has the ability to identify parameters and predict the SOC of the battery simultaneously. The dual filter was verified under two different driving conditions and three different temperatures, and the results showed that the dual filter has an improvement on SOC estimation.
Power Capability Analysis of Lithium Battery and Supercapacitor by Pulse Duration
Authors: Lee Seongjun , Kim Jonghoon
Published: November 2019

In this report, a method for estimating pulse power performance according to pulse duration is proposed. This approach can be used for power control logic in an environmentally friendly power generation system such as electric vehicles and an energy storage system (ESS). Although there have been studies on pulse power capability, we are unaware of any publications on the estimation of the magnitude of pulse power according to the power usage time, and the verification of the estimation result. Therefore, we propose a method to predict power performance according to the pulse duration of batteries and supercapacitors that are used in eco-friendly power generation systems. The proposed method is systematically presented using both a lithium-ion battery module with a nominal voltage of 44 V, 11 Ah, and a supercapacitor module with a maximum voltage of 36 V and a capacitance of 30 F.
Area-Efficient Pipelined FFT Processor for Zero-Padded Signals
Authors: Jung Yongchul , Cho Jaechan , Lee Seongjoo , Jung Yunho
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes an area-efficient fast Fourier transform (FFT) processor for zero-padded signals based on the radix-2 2 and the radix-2 3 single-path delay feedback pipeline architectures. The delay elements for aligning the data in the pipeline stage are one of the most complex units and that of stage 1 is the biggest. By exploiting the fact that the input data sequence is zero-padded and that the twiddle factor multiplication in stage 1 is trivial, the proposed FFT processor can dramatically reduce the required number of delay elements. Moreover, the 256-point FFT processors were designed using hardware description language (HDL) and were synthesized to gate-level circuits using a standard cell library for 65 nm CMOS process. The proposed architecture results in a logic gate count of 40,396, which can be efficient and suitable for zero-padded FFT processors.
The Potential Role of Flexibility During Peak Hours on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Life Cycle Assessment of Five Targeted National Electricity Grid Mixes
Authors: Munné-Collado Ingrid , Aprà Fabio Maria , Olivella-Rosell Pol , Villafáfila-Robles Roberto
Published: November 2019

On the path towards the decarbonization of the electricity supply, flexibility and demand response have become key factors to enhance the integration of distributed energy resources, shifting the consumption from peak hours to off-peak hours, optimizing the grid usage and maximizing the share of renewables. Despite the technical viability of flexible services, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions has not been proven. Traditionally, emissions are calculated on a yearly average timescale, not providing any information about peak hours’ environmental impact. Furthermore, peak-hours’ environmental impacts are not always greater than on the base load, depending on the resources used for those time periods. This paper formulates a general methodology to assess the potential environmental impact of peak-hourly generation profiles, through attributional life cycle assessment. This methodology was applied to five different countries under the INVADE H2020 Project. Evaluation results demonstrate that countries like Spain and Bulgaria could benefit from implementing demand response activities considering environmental aspects, enhancing potential greenhouse gas reductions by up to 21% in peak hours.
Optimal Operation of Battery Storage for a Subscribed Capacity-Based Power Tariff Prosumer—A Norwegian Case Study
Authors: Berglund Frida , Zaferanlouei Salman , Korpås Magnus , Uhlen Kjetil
Published: November 2019

The cost of peak power for end-users subject to a demand charge may be substantial, expecting to increase further with the vast growth of power-demanding devices. In cases where load-shifting is not a viable option for cost reduction, battery storage systems used for peak shaving purposes are emerging as a promising solution. In this paper, the economic benefits of implementing battery storage into an existing grid-connected photovoltaic system for a medium-scale swimming facility is studied. The objective is to minimize the total cost of electricity for the facility, including the cost of energy and peak power demand, while ensuring the longevity of the battery. An optimization model based on multi-integer linear programming is built, and simulated using a one-year time horizon in GAMS and Matlab. The main results reveal that installing a battery storage system is economically attractive today, with net savings on the total system cost of 0.64% yearly. The cost of peak power is reduced by 13.9%, and the savings from peak shaving operation alone is enough to compensate for the yearly cost of the battery. Moreover, the battery ensures additional revenue by performing price arbitrage operations. When simulating the system for an assumed 2030 scenario, the battery is found to be more profitable with a yearly net savings of 4.15%.
Hierarchical Energy Management System for Microgrid Operation Based on Robust Model Predictive Control
Authors: Marín Luis Gabriel , Sumner Mark , Muñoz-Carpintero Diego , Köbrich Daniel , Pholboon Seksak , Sáez Doris , Núñez Alfredo
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a two-level hierarchical energy management system (EMS) for microgrid operation that is based on a robust model predictive control (MPC) strategy. This EMS focuses on minimizing the cost of the energy drawn from the main grid and increasing self-consumption of local renewable energy resources, and brings benefits to the users of the microgrid as well as the distribution network operator (DNO). The higher level of the EMS comprises a robust MPC controller which optimizes energy usage and defines a power reference that is tracked by the lower-level real-time controller. The proposed EMS addresses the uncertainty of the predictions of the generation and end-user consumption profiles with the use of the robust MPC controller, which considers the optimization over a control policy where the uncertainty of the power predictions can be compensated either by the battery or main grid power consumption. Simulation results using data from a real urban community showed that when compared with an equivalent (non-robust) deterministic EMS (i.e., an EMS based on the same MPC formulation, but without the uncertainty handling), the proposed EMS based on robust MPC achieved reduced energy costs and obtained a more uniform grid power consumption, safer battery operation, and reduced peak loads.
An Energetic Model for Detonation of Granulated Solid Propellants
Authors: López-Munoz Carmen , García-Cascales J.R. , Velasco F.J.S. , Otón-Martínez R.A.
Published: November 2019

Unexpected detonation of granular solid energetic materials is a key safety issue in the propellants manufacturing industry. In this work, a model developed for the characterization of the early stages of the detonation process of granular solid energetic materials is presented. The model relies on a two-phase approach which considers the conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy and constitutive relations for mass generation, gas-solid particle interaction, interphase heat transfer, and particle-particle stress. The work considers an extension of approximated Riemann solvers and Total Variation Diminishing (TVD) schemes to the solid phase for the numerical integration of the problem. The results obtained with this model show a good agreement with data available in the literature and confirm the potential of the numerical schemes applied to this type of model. The results also permit to assess the effectiveness of different numerical schemes to predict the early stages of this transient combustion process.
Learning Dynamic Factors to Improve the Accuracy of Bus Arrival Time Prediction via a Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Zhou Xin , Dong Peixin , Xing Jianping , Sun Peijia
Published: November 2019

Accurate prediction of bus arrival times is a challenging problem in the public transportation field. Previous studies have shown that to improve prediction accuracy, more heterogeneous measurements provide better results. So what other factors should be added into the prediction model? Traditional prediction methods mainly use the arrival time and the distance between stations, but do not make full use of dynamic factors such as passenger number, dwell time, bus driving efficiency, etc. We propose a novel approach that takes full advantage of dynamic factors. Our approach is based on a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN). The experimental results indicate that a variety of prediction algorithms (such as Support Vector Machine, Kalman filter, Multilayer Perceptron, and RNN) have significantly improved performance after using dynamic factors. Further, we introduce RNN with an attention mechanism to adaptively select the most relevant input factors. Experiments demonstrate that the prediction accuracy of RNN with an attention mechanism is better than RNN with no attention mechanism when there are heterogeneous input factors. The experimental results show the superior performances of our approach on the data set provided by Jinan Public Transportation Corporation.
Effects of Transglutaminase on the Protein Network and In Vitro Starch Digestibility of Asian Wheat Noodles
Authors: Wee May Sui Mei , Jeyakumar Henry Christiani
Published: November 2019

Wheat noodles are a staple commonly consumed in Asia, but high intakes have been associated with type 2 diabetes due to its rapid starch digestibility. We hypothesised that protein network-binding via transglutaminase (TG) would form a stronger barrier encapsulating the starch granules to limit enzymatic access and digestion. The amount of glucose release decreased significantly with increasing TG concentration, with a reduction of approximately 16% with 2% TG after 120 min of digestion. The slower rate of glucose release during the first 60 min of digestion for 2% compared to 0% TG suggested impeded first stage enzymatic access rather than second stage starch hydrolysis into glucose. Upon increasing the TG concentration, confocal microscopy revealed a denser protein network with increased connectivity, supported by a decrease in protein solubility and gelatinisation enthalpy, and increased firmness and work of shear. Therefore, transglutaminase can potentially be used to reduce starch digestibility in wheat noodles via protein network-binding.
Genomic Analysis of Spontaneous Abortion in Holstein Heifers and Primiparous Cows
Authors: Oliver Kayleen F. , Wahl Alexandria , Dick Mataya , Toenges Jewel A. , Kiser Jennifer N. , Galliou Justine M. , Moraes Joao G.N. , Burns Gregory W. , Dalton Joseph , Spencer Thomas E. , Neibergs Holly L.
Published: November 2019

Background: The objectives of this study were to identify loci, positional candidate genes, gene-sets, and pathways associated with spontaneous abortion (SA) in cattle and compare these results with previous human SA studies to determine if cattle are a good SA model for humans. Pregnancy was determined at gestation day 35 for Holstein heifers and cows. Genotypes from 43,984 SNPs of 499 pregnant heifers and 498 pregnant cows that calved at full term (FT) were compared to 62 heifers and 28 cows experiencing SA. A genome-wide association analysis, gene-set enrichment analysis–single nucleotide polymorphism, and ingenuity pathway analysis were used to identify regions, pathways, and master regulators associated with SA in heifers, cows, and a combined population. Results: Twenty-three loci and 21 positional candidate genes were associated (p < 1 × 10−5) with SA and one of these (KIR3DS1) has been associated with SA in humans. Eight gene-sets (NES > 3.0) were enriched in SA and one was previously reported as enriched in human SA. Four master regulators (p < 0.01) were associated with SA within two populations. Conclusions: One locus associated with SA was validated and 39 positional candidate and leading-edge genes and 2 gene-sets were enriched in SA in cattle and in humans.
Genistein Modulates Signaling Pathways and Targets Several Epigenetic Markers in HeLa Cells
Authors: Sundaram Madhumitha Kedhari , Unni Sreepoorna , Somvanshi Pallavi , Bhardwaj Tulika , Mandal Raju K. , Hussain Arif , Haque Shafiul
Published: November 2019

Background: Several epigenetic changes are responsible for transcriptional alterations of signaling pathways and tumour suppressor genes (TSGs) contributing to carcinogenesis. This study was aimed to examine the effect of the phytochemical, genistein on various molecular targets in HeLa cells. Methods: Quantitative PCR was used to analyze the expression of various molecular targets. Biochemical assays were employed to study the epigenetic enzymes. To correlate the transcriptional status of the selected TSGs and epigenetic modulation, their promoter 5’CpG methylation levels were evaluated by quantitative methylation array followed by methylation specific restriction digestion. Results: The expression of several genes involved in the cell cycle regulation, migration, inflammation, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen activated kinase-like protein (MAPK) pathway were found to be modulated including CCNB1, TWIST1, MMP14, TERT, AKT1, PTPRR, FOS and IL1A. Genistein modulated the expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), histone methyltransferases (HMTs), demethylases, and histone phosphorylases. Furthermore, genistein decreased the activity of DNMTs, HDACs, and HMTs and reduced global DNA methylation levels. Promoter methylation of several TSGs, including FHIT, RUNX3, CDH1, PTEN, and SOC51, was lowered with corresponding transcriptional increase. Network analysis indicated similar effect of genistein. Conclusion: This study presents a comprehensive mechanism of action of genistein showcasing effective epigenetic modulation and widespread transcriptional changes resulting in restoration of tumour suppressor gene expression. This study corroborates the development of genistein as a candidate for anti-cancer therapy.
A “NOTCH” Deeper into the Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Program in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kar Rohan , Jha Niraj Kumar , Jha Saurabh Kumar , Sharma Ankur , Dholpuria Sunny , Asthana Nidhi , Chaurasiya Kundan , Singh Vivek Kumar , Burgee Shuaib , Nand Parma
Published: November 2019

Notch signaling is a primitive signaling pathway having various roles in the normal origin and development of each multicellular organisms. Therefore, any aberration in the pathway will inevitably lead to deadly outcomes such as cancer. It has now been more than two decades since Notch was acknowledged as an oncogene in mouse mammary tumor virus-infected mice. Since that discovery, activated Notch signaling and consequent up-regulation of tumor-promoting Notch target genes have been observed in human breast cancer. Moreover, consistent over-expression of Notch ligands and receptors has been shown to correlate with poor prognosis in human breast cancer. Notch regulates a number of key processes during breast carcinogenesis, of which, one key phenomenon is epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is a key process for large-scale cell movement during morphogenesis at the time of embryonic development. Cancer cells aided by transcription factors usurp this developmental program to execute the multi-step process of tumorigenesis and metastasis. In this review, we recapitulate recent progress in breast cancer research that has provided new perceptions into the molecular mechanisms behind Notch-mediated EMT regulation during breast tumorigenesis.
Phylostratigraphic Analysis Shows the Earliest Origination of the Abiotic Stress Associated Genes in A. thaliana
Authors: Mustafin Zakhar S. , Zamyatin Vladimir I. , Konstantinov Dmitrii K. , Doroshkov Aleksej V. , Lashin Sergey A. , Afonnikov Dmitry A.
Published: November 2019

Plants constantly fight with stressful factors as high or low temperature, drought, soil salinity and flooding. Plants have evolved a set of stress response mechanisms, which involve physiological and biochemical changes that result in adaptive or morphological changes. At a molecular level, stress response in plants is performed by genetic networks, which also undergo changes in the process of evolution. The study of the network structure and evolution may highlight mechanisms of plants adaptation to adverse conditions, as well as their response to stresses and help in discovery and functional characterization of the stress-related genes. We performed an analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana genes associated with several types of abiotic stresses (heat, cold, water-related, light, osmotic, salt, and oxidative) at the network level using a phylostratigraphic approach. Our results show that a substantial fraction of genes associated with various types of abiotic stress is of ancient origin and evolves under strong purifying selection. The interaction networks of genes associated with stress response have a modular structure with a regulatory component being one of the largest for five of seven stress types. We demonstrated a positive relationship between the number of interactions of gene in the stress gene network and its age. Moreover, genes of the same age tend to be connected in stress gene networks. We also demonstrated that old stress-related genes usually participate in the response for various types of stress and are involved in numerous biological processes unrelated to stress. Our results demonstrate that the stress response genes represent the ancient and one of the fundamental molecular systems in plants.
Victimization of Traditional and Cyber Bullying During Childhood and Their Correlates Among Adult Gay and Bisexual Men in Taiwan: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Chien-Chuan , Hsiao Ray C. , Yen Cheng-Fang
Published: November 2019

This study examined the associations of timing of sexual orientation developmental milestones, gender role nonconformity, and family-related factors with victimization of traditional and cyber sexuality-related bullying during childhood among gay and bisexual men in Taiwan, in addition to the moderating effects of family-related factors on these associations. A total of 500 homosexual or bisexual men aged between 20 and 25 years were recruited into this study. The associations of early identification of sexual orientation, early coming out, level of masculinity, parental education levels, and perceived family support with victimization of traditional and cyber sexuality-related bullying were evaluated. Early identification of sexual orientation, low self-rated masculinity, and low family support were significantly associated with victimization of traditional bullying. Moreover, low family support, early coming out, and traditional bullying victimization were significantly associated with victimization of cyber bullying. Family support did not moderate the associations of early identification of sexual orientation and low masculinity with victimization of traditional bullying or cyberbullying. The factors associated with victimization of traditional and cyber sexuality-related bullying should be considered when mental health and educational professionals develop prevention and intervention strategies to reduce sexuality-related bullying.
Characteristics of Internal Ammonium Loading from Long-Term Polluted Sediments by Rural Domestic Wastewater
Authors: Luo Xiang , Li Yungui , Wu Qingsong , Wei Zifei , Li Qingqing , Wei Liang , Shen Yi , Wang Rong
Published: November 2019

Given long-term decentralized and centralized rural domestic wastewater (RDW) discharge, nitrogen is continuously depositing in sediments. RDW discharge is assumed to be an important source of ammonium in surface water; however, the effect of long-term RDW discharge on nitrogen pollution in sediments remains unknown. Batch incubations were conducted to investigate the characteristics of internal ammonium loading from long-term polluted sediments by RDW discharge. Four sediments were demonstrated to be heavily polluted by long-term RDW discharge, with total nitrogen (TN) values of 5350, 8080, 2730, and 2000 mg·kg−1, respectively. The internal ammonium release from sediment was a slow and long process, and the risk of ammonium release from sediment during the dry season was significantly greater than that during the wet season. Though all selected sediments were heavily polluted by long-term RDW discharge, the relative contribution of internal ammonium loading from sediments was generally lower than that of external pollution. Hence, dredging is not suggested for RDW-polluted sediments except in response to an emergency. The excessive ammonium in the selected catchment was mainly from untreated and centralized black water in RDW. Centralized black waters in rural communities are highlighted to be separately treated or reused to maintain ammonium content at a safe level.
Dipole Magnets above 20 Tesla: Research Needs for a Path via High-Temperature Superconducting REBCO Conductors
Authors: Wang Xiaorong , Gourlay Stephen A. , Prestemon Soren O.
Published: November 2019

To enable the physics research that continues to deepen our understanding of the Universe, future circular colliders will require a critical and unique instrument—magnets that can generate a dipole field of 20 T and above. However, today’s maturing magnet technology for low-temperature superconductors (Nb-Ti and Nb3Sn) can lead to a maximum dipole field of around 16 T. High-temperature superconductors such as REBCO can, in principle, generate higher dipole fields but significant challenges exist for both conductor and magnet technology. To address these challenges, several critical research needs, including direct needs on instrumentation and measurements, are identified to push for the maximum dipole fields a REBCO accelerator magnet can generate. We discuss the research needs by reviewing the current results and outlining the perspectives for future technology development, followed by a brief update on the status of the technology development at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. We present a roadmap for the next decade to develop 20 T-class REBCO accelerator magnets as an enabling instrument for future energy-frontier accelerator complex.
Effects of Dehydration on Cognitive and Physical Performance in Female Golfers: A Randomized Crossover Pilot Study
Authors: Stevenson Whitney , Zabinsky Jennie S. , Hedrick Valisa E.
Published: November 2019

Athletes’ commitments to nutrition practices can set them apart in their field. Few studies have investigated the impact of hydration practices on golfers’ performance who compete for up to eight hours a day, and none have studied female golfers. In this pilot, randomized crossover study, female elite golfers (n = 6) completed 4 simulated golf holes in both euhydrated and dehydrated states. Euhydration was attained by following NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) hydration guidelines; dehydration was attained by a 12-h overnight fluid fast. Before any fluid intervention, five out of six participants were dehydrated at baseline using urinary specific gravity (USG) classifications for euhydration (USG < 1.010) and dehydration (USG > 1.010). No significant condition by time interactions were found between hydration conditions. Although not significant, participants in a dehydrated state demonstrated lesser mean 7-iron distance (141.9 ± 10.0 vs 144.2 ± 8.0 m), lower putting accuracy (2.4 ± 1.0 vs 2.7 ± 10.0 putts made out of 4 attempts), and greater perceived effort (10.9 ± 2.1 vs 10.5 ± 1.6) as compared to their euhydrated state. The finding of one participant out of six with significant dehydration (USG = 1.021) during attempted euhydrated state may suggest the need for alternative methods to promote adequate hydration in future studies and possibly in golf practice.
Volume-Controlled Versus Dual-Controlled Ventilation during Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy with Steep Trendelenburg Position: A Randomized-Controlled Trial
Authors: Park Jin Ha , Park In Kyeong , Choi Seung Ho , Eum Darhae , Kim Min-Soo
Published: November 2019

Dual-controlled ventilation (DCV) combines the advantages of volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) and pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV). Carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg positioning for robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALRP) has negative effects on the respiratory system. We hypothesized that the use of autoflow as one type of DCV can reduce these effects during RALRP. Eighty patients undergoing RALRP were randomly assigned to receive VCV or DCV. Arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) as the primary outcome, respiratory and hemodynamic data, and postoperative fever rates were compared at four time points: 10 min after anesthesia induction (T1), 30 and 60 min after the initiation of CO2 pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg positioning (T2 and T3), and 10 min after supine positioning (T4). There were no significant differences in PaO2 between the two groups. Mean peak airway pressure (Ppeak) was significantly lower in group DCV than in group VCV at T2 (mean difference, 5.0 cm H2O; adjusted p < 0.001) and T3 (mean difference, 3.9 cm H2O; adjusted p < 0.001). Postoperative fever occurring within the first 2 days after surgery was more common in group VCV (12%) than in group DCV (3%) (p = 0.022). Compared with VCV, DCV did not improve oxygenation during RALRP. However, DCV significantly decreased Ppeak without hemodynamic instability.
Tissue Sodium Content and Arterial Hypertension in Obese Adolescents
Authors: Roth Sophie , Markó Lajos , Birukov Anna , Hennemuth Anja , Kühnen Peter , Jones Alexander , Ghorbani Niky , Linz Peter , Müller Dominik N , Wiegand Susanna , Berger Felix , Kuehne Titus , Kelm Marcus
Published: November 2019

Early-onset obesity is known to culminate in type 2 diabetes, arterial hypertension and subsequent cardiovascular disease. The role of sodium (Na+) homeostasis in this process is incompletely understood, yet correlations between Na+ accumulation and hypertension have been observed in adults. We aimed to investigate these associations in adolescents. A cohort of 32 adolescents (13–17 years), comprising 20 obese patients, of whom 11 were hypertensive, as well as 12 age-matched controls, underwent 23Na-MRI of the left lower leg with a standard clinical 3T scanner. Median triceps surae muscle Na+ content in hypertensive obese (11.95 mmol/L [interquartile range 11.62–13.66]) was significantly lower than in normotensive obese (13.63 mmol/L [12.97–17.64]; p = 0.043) or controls (15.37 mmol/L [14.12–16.08]; p = 0.012). No significant differences were found between normotensive obese and controls. Skin Na+ content in hypertensive obese (13.33 mmol/L [11.53–14.22] did not differ to normotensive obese (14.12 mmol/L [13.15–15.83]) or controls (11.48 mmol/L [10.48–12.80]), whereas normotensive obese had higher values compared to controls (p = 0.004). Arterial hypertension in obese adolescents is associated with low muscle Na+ content. These findings suggest an early dysregulation of Na+ homeostasis in cardiometabolic disease. Further research is needed to determine whether this association is causal and how it evolves in the transition to adulthood.
Prognostic Value of MiR-21: An Updated Meta-Analysis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)
Authors: Irimie-Aghiorghiesei Alexandra Iulia , Pop-Bica Cecilia , Pintea Sebastian , Braicu Cornelia , Cojocneanu Roxana , Zimța Alina-Andreea , Gulei Diana , Slabý Ondřej , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: November 2019

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a group of malignancies with serious impact on patient quality of life due to a reduced rate of response to chemotherapy or radiation therapy. MiR-21 has been identified as one of the most common proto-oncogenes. It is hypothesized that upregulated miR-21 could serve as a potential biomarker for human cancer diagnosis. Considering the target genes identified for miR-21 in HNSCC, this transcript is an important player in several cellular processes that control carcinogenesis. The abnormal expression of miR-21 in this group of pathologies has been assessed in several publications, but given the heterogeneity of the published results, a meta-analysis and proper bioinformatics analysis of expression databases are needed to correctly establish the prognostic potential of this molecule. The present meta-analysis comprises the published survival data on HNSCC patients, reported as HR and 95% CI, in association with the expression levels of miR-21. Our investigation revealed that miR-21 could be used successfully as a prognostic biomarker in HNSCC patients, confirming its oncogenic potential. Specifically, the upregulation of miR-21 in these patients predicts a worse outcome in terms of survival rate.
Health Benefits of Physical Activity: A Strengths-Based Approach
Authors: Warburton Darren E. R. , Bredin Shannon S. D.
Published: November 2019

Our special series on Cardiac Rehabilitation outlined the importance of routine physical activity and/or exercise participation in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and many other chronic medical conditions. The evidence is overwhelming, demonstrating that nearly everyone can benefit from becoming more physically active. This messaging has been widely disseminated at regional, national, and international levels. Often, this messaging highlights a physical inactivity crisis and the health perils of not engaging in sufficient amounts of physical activity. This deficits-based messaging often includes generic threshold-based recommendations stating that health benefits can only be accrued with specific volumes or intensities of physical activity. In this Editorial, we argue that the current generic and deficits-based messaging misses a great opportunity to focus on the positive and to facilitate hope and real change at the individual, community, and population levels. We advocate a strengths-based approach to health and wellness promotion that focuses on the innate strengths of individuals, families, and communities to enable self-empowerment and self-determination related to health and wellness. By taking a strengths-based approach, we can build hope, promoting the positive aspects of routine physical activity and exercise participation and providing a greater opportunity to enhance health and wellbeing for everyone.
Interferons (IFN-A/-B/-G) Genetic Variants in Patients with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)
Authors: Paradowska-Gorycka Agnieszka , Wajda Anna , Stypinska Barbara , Walczuk Ewa , Walczyk Marcela , Felis-Giemza Anna , Poluch-Lewandowska Aleksandra , Olesińska Marzena
Published: November 2019

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare complex autoimmune disease in which autoantigens are recognized by endosomal TLRs. Their activation induces a higher secretion of the type I interferons, IFN-γ and the up-regulation of the INF-inducible genes. The present study aimed to investigate whether SNPs that are located in the IFN-A, IFN-B, and IFN-G genes are associated with MCTD. 145 MCTD patients and 281 healthy subjects were examined for IFN-A, IFN-B, and IFN-G genetic variants by TaqMan SNP genotyping assay. ELISA determined IFN-α/-β/-γ serum levels. Among the seven tested SNPs, four polymorphisms: IFN-A rs10757212, IFN-A rs3758236, IFN-G rs2069705, IFN-G rs2069718, as well as INF-G rs1861493A/rs2069705A/rs2069718G haplotype were significantly associated with a predisposition for MCTD. Raynaud’s phenomenon, erosive arthritis, swollen hands and fingers, and sclerodactyly were significantly more frequently observed in MCTD patients with IFN-G rs2069718 G allele than in patients with IFN-G rs2069718 A allele. We also found that anti-U1-A autoantibodies most frequently occurred in MCTD patients with rs2069718 GA genotype, while the IFN-G rs2069705 AG and rs2069718 GA genotypes might be a marker of anti-Ro60 presence in MCTD patients. Our results indicate that IFN-G genetic variants may be potential genetic biomarkers for MCTD susceptibility and severity.
Oxygenation of the Prefrontal Cortex during Memory Interference
Authors: Crawford Lindsay , Zou Liye , Loprinzi Paul D.
Published: November 2019

Background: Memory interference occurs when information (or memory) to be retrieved is interrupted by competing stimuli. Proactive interference (PI) occurs when previously acquired information interferes with newly acquired information, whereas retroactive interference (RI) occurs when newly acquired information interferes with previously acquired information. In animal paradigms, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been shown to help facilitate pattern separation, and ultimately, attenuate memory interference. Research evaluating the role of the PFC on memory interference among humans is, however, limited. The present study evaluated the relationship between PFC oxygenation on memory interference among humans, with the null hypothesis being that there is no association between PFC oxygenation and memory interference. Methods: A total of 74 participants (Mage = 20.8 years) completed the study. Participants completed a computerized memory interference task using the AB-DE AC-FG paradigm, with PFC oxyhemoglobin levels measured via functional near-infrared spectroscopy. Results: For PI, the change in oxygenated hemoglobin for encoding list 1 and retrieval of list 1 showed moderate evidence for the null hypothesis (BF01 = 4.05 and 3.28, respectively). For RI, the Bayesian analysis also established moderate evidence for the null hypothesis across all memory task time points. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates evidence of the null hypothesis regarding the relationship between PFC oxygenation and memory interference. Future work should continue to investigate this topic to identify mechanistic correlates of memory interference.
Optical and Mechanical Properties of Highly Transparent Glass-Flake Composites
Authors: Scharfe Benedikt , Lehmann Sebastian , Gerdes Thorsten , Brüggemann Dieter
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the dynamic mechanic and optical properties of composites made of Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) and Micro Glass Flakes (MGF) with matching refractive indices (RIs) are investigated. The composite is produced by a slurry-based process using additional blade casting and lamination. It can be shown that a high degree of ordering of the MGF in the polymer matrix can be achieved with this method. This ordering, combined with the platelet-like structure of the MGF, leads to very efficient strengthening of the PVB with increasing content of the MGF. By carefully adjusting the RIs of the polymer, it is shown that haze is reduced to below 2%, which has not been achieved with irregular fillers or glass fibers.
Human Rights of Children in the Context of Migration Processes. Innovative Efforts for Integrating Regional Human Rights Standards in the Americas
Authors: Fuentes Alejandro , Vannelli Marina
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a critical analysis of the innovative jurisprudential approaches taken by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in integrating the content and scope of protection of the human rights of children, in the context of migration processes. How might one provide an effective protection to unaccompanied children that enter irregularly into the territory of a given country, when the safeguards guaranteed at the national level are elusive or inefficient? By focusing on the pioneering jurisprudence developed by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in recent years, this paper intends to unveil how a systemic integration of children’s rights, under the light of the current international law developments, could provide an effective protection for the rights of children in the context of migration processes. In fact, as a result of an evolutive, dynamic and effective interpretation, the regional tribunal has expanded the scope of protection of the American Convention on Human Rights, by taking into consideration and making known, references to instruments and provisions enshrined within the corpus juris of international human rights law, such as the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, and—consequently—improving the level of protection of millions of children in the Americas.
2,2′-((1,4-Dimethoxy-1,4-dioxobutane-2,3-diylidene)bis(azanylylidene))bis(quinoline-3-carboxylic acid)
Authors: Fedorowicz Joanna , Gzella Karol , Wiśniewska Paulina , Sączewski Jarosław
Published: November 2019

The title compound, 2,2′-((1,4-dimethoxy-1,4-dioxobutane-2,3-diylidene)bis(azanylylidene))bis(quinoline-3-carboxylic acid) was synthesized from isoxazolo[3,4-b]quinolin-3(1H)-one and dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate (DMAD) via a double aza-Michael addition followed by [1,3]-H shifts. The product was characterized by infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, as well as elemental analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). The proposed reaction mechanism was rationalized by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
2-D Selector Simulation Studies on Grain Selection for Single Crystal Superalloy of CM247LC
Authors: Zhang Hang , Zhu Xintao , Wang Fu , Ma Dexin
Published: November 2019

In the present work, the single crystal superalloy CM247LC was selected as the research material. By using directional experiments and the cellular automaton finite element (CAFE) model, the process of grain texture evolution in a two-dimensional grain selector was investigated to clarify the mechanism of grain selection in the two-dimensional passage during the process of directional solidification (DS). To optimize single crystal turbine blade production processes, the effects of grain selector geometries (i.e., selector diameter and pitch length, take-off angle) on the microstructure and stray grain were simulated and discussed.
Properties of Phosphorus-Slag-Based Cementitious Pastes for Stabilizing Lead
Authors: Huang Xuquan , Liu Liang , Zhao Xiaorong , Tang Cilai , Wang Xiaoshu
Published: November 2019

The properties and curing mechanism of leaded samples solidified with phosphorous-slag-based cementitious pastes are studied. The compressive strength, pH of percolate, and lead-ion concentrations of leaded samples stabilized with the phosphorous-slag-based cementitious pastes and cement were analyzed. Results confirmed that the phosphorous-slag-based cementitious paste performed much better than cement in terms of solidifying lead. The cured form of lead with phosphorous-slag-based cementitious pastes had higher compressive strength, lower lead leaching, and smaller change in pH. Higher lead content corresponded with more obvious advantagees of phosphorus-slag-based cementitious pastes and lower risk of environmental pollution. By means of X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Energy Dispersive Spectrometer-Scanning Electron Microscope (EDS-SEM) analyses, we found that the hydration of phosphorus-slag-based cementitious pastes produced hydrated calcium silicate gels, ettringite and other minerals with large specific surface areas, as well as some leaded products that can combine with lead ions to form chemically stable leaded products. This finding well explained the high performance of phosphorus-slag-based cementitious pastes in terms of lead solidification and stabilization.
Study of Infrared Laser Parameters on Surface Morphology and Hydrophobic Properties
Authors: Ye Xia , Gu Jiang , Fan Zhenmin , Yang Xiaohong , Xu Wei
Published: November 2019

Many studies have shown that super hydrophobic surfaces have been applied to micro–nano structures and low surface energy materials. In the present study, infrared laser scanning and simple salinization modification were used to improve the hydrophobicity of a surface. When the scanning speed was 100 mm/s, the laser power was 30 W and the scanning interval was 200 μm, the apparent contact angle of surface was up to 157°. The assessment of surface characteristics revealed that decreasing scanning speed or increasing laser power were able to improve the hydrophobicity of the surface. After aging treatment, the superhydrophobic surface prepared by this method still had good durability.