bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deductive Verification Method of Real-Time Safety Properties for Embedded Assembly Programs
Authors: Yamane Satoshi
Published: October 2019

It is important to verify both the correctness and real-time properties of embedded systems. However, as practical computer programs are represented by infinite state transition systems, specifying and verifying a computer program is difficult. Real-time properties are also important for embedded programs, but verifying the real-time properties of an embedded program is difficult. In this paper, we focus on verifying an embedded assembly program, in order to verify the real-time safety properties. We propose a deductive verification method to verify real-time safety properties, based on discrete time, as follows: (1) First, we construct a timed computational model including the execution time from the assembly program. We can specify an infinite state transition system including the execution time of the timed computational model. (2) Next, we verify whether a timed computational model satisfies RTLTL (Real-Time Linear Temporal Logic) formulas by deductive verification. We can specify real-time properties by RTLTL. By our proposed methods, we are able to achieve verification of the real-time safety properties of an embedded program.
Resonant Tunneling Diode (RTD) Terahertz Active Transmission Line Oscillator with Graphene-Plasma Wave and Two Graphene Antennas
Authors: Zhao Fan , Zhu Changju , Guo Weilian , Cong Jia , Tee Clarence Augustine T. H. , Song Le , Zheng Yelong
Published: October 2019

This study describes the design of a resonant tunneling diode (RTD) oscillator (RTD oscillator) with a RTD-gated-graphene-2DEF (two dimensional electron fluid) and demonstrates the functioning of this RTD oscillator through a transmission line simulation model. Impedance of the RTD oscillator changes periodically when physical dimension of the device is of considerable fraction of the electrical wavelength. As long as impedance matching is achieved, the oscillation frequency is not limited by the size of the device. An RTD oscillator with a graphene film and negative differential resistance (NDR) will produce power amplification. The positive electrode of the DC power supply is modified and designed as an antenna. So, the reflected power can also be radiated to increase RTD oscillator output power. The output analysis shows that through the optimization of the antenna structure, it is possible to increase the RTD oscillator output to 22 mW at 1.9 THz and 20 mW at 6.1 THz respectively. Furthermore, the RTD oscillator has the potential to oscillate at 50 THz with a matching antenna.
Analysis of Sliding-Mode Controlled Impedance Matching Circuits for Inductive Harvesting Devices
Authors: Garriga-Castillo Juan A. , Valderrama-Blavi Hugo , Barrado-Rodrigo José A. , Cid-Pastor Àngel
Published: October 2019

A sea-wave energy harvesting, articulated device is presented in this work. This hand-made, wooden device is made combining the coil windings of an array of three single transducers. Taking advantage of the sea waves sway, a linear oscillating motion is produced in each transducer generating an electric pulse. Magnetic fundamentals are used to deduce the electrical model of a single transducer, a solenoid-magnet device, and after the model of the whole harvesting array. The energy obtained is stored in a battery and is used to supply a stand-alone system pay-load, for instance a telecom relay or weather station. To maximize the harvested energy, an impedance matching circuit between the generator array and the system battery is required. Two dc-to-dc converters, a buck-boost hybrid cell and a Sepic converter are proposed as impedance adaptors. To achieve this purpose, sliding mode control laws are introduced to impose a loss free resistor behavior to the converters. Although some converters operating at discontinuous conduction mode, like the buck-boost converter, can exhibit also this loss free resistor behavior, they usually require a small input voltage variation range. By means of sliding mode control the loss free resistor behavior can be assured for any range of input voltage variation. After the theoretical analysis, several simulation and experimental results to compare both converters performance are given.
Analysis and Design of High-Efficiency Bidirectional GaN-Based CLLC Resonant Converter
Authors: Liu Yuanjun , Du Guiping , Wang Xueyi , Lei Yanxiong
Published: October 2019

A bidirectional CLLC resonant converter (CLLC-BRC) based on GaN transistors is analyzed and designed in this paper. Similar resonant topologies are listed and commented on, with the CLLC topology showing competitiveness in bidirectional energy transmission. The analysis of the aforementioned converter has been provided, including the reveal of resonant frequencies of the CLLC topology and an improved zero-voltage switching (ZVS) condition with operation principles of the reverse mode and relevant parasitic parameters taken into account. The design methodology of the aforementioned converter based on pulse frequency modulation (PFM) is further discussed in detail. A prototype with a rated power of 400 W and a maximal operating frequency that is larger than 0.5 MHz was built to verify the proposed design methodology. The highest conversion efficiency of the prototype was 97.02% in the forward mode, and it was 95.96% in the reverse mode.
Triggering Optimal Control of Air Conditioning Systems by Event-Driven Mechanism: Comparing Direct and Indirect Approaches
Authors: Wang Junqi , Liu Rundong , Zhang Linfeng , ASAD Hussain Syed , Meng Erlin
Published: October 2019

Real-time optimal control of air conditioning (AC) is important, and should respond to the condition changes for an energy efficient operation. The traditional optimal control triggering mechanism is based on the “time clock” (called time-driven), and has certain drawbacks (e.g., delayed or unnecessary actions). Thus, an event-driven optimal control (EDOC) was proposed. In previous studies, the part-load ratio (PLR) of chiller plants was used as events to trigger optimal control actions. However, PLR is an indirect indicator of operation efficiency, which could misrepresent the system coefficient of performance (SCOP). This study thus proposes to directly monitor the SCOP deviations from the desired SCOP values. Two events are defined based on transient and cumulative SCOP deviations, which are systematically investigated in terms of energy performance and robustness. The PLR-based and SCOP-based EDOC are compared, in which energy saving and optimal control triggering time are analyzed. Results suggest that SCOP-based EDOC has better energy performance compared with PLR-based EDOC, but the frequent event triggering might happen due to the parameter uncertainty. For actual applications, the SCOP-based EDOC can be recommended when the ideal SCOP model is available with the properly-handled uncertainty. Nevertheless, the PLR-based EDOC could still be a more practical option to replace the traditional TDOC considering its acceptable energy performance and better robustness.
Solid Particles in Natural Gas from a Transportation Network: A Chemical Composition Study
Authors: Cachia Maxime , Carrier Hervé , Bouyssiere Brice , Le Coustumer Philippe , Chiquet Pierre , Caumette Guilhem , Le Hécho Isabelle
Published: October 2019

This paper aims to provide the elemental composition of particles found in natural gas. Particle sampling is performed on cellulose filters obtained from an industrial gas storage facility, and the qualitative particle composition is determined by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Our results establish that natural gas may contain solid particles, with sizes ranging from less than 1 μm to more than 50 μm. The observed particles are composed of numerous elements, such as aluminum (Al), silica (Si), sulphur (S), chloride (Cl), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), sodium (Na), manganese (Mg), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), vanadium (V), potassium (K), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), silver (Ag), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), and barium (Ba), with relative occurrences ranging from 1 to 85%. Moreover, metallic elements enable the formation of larger particles as a result of the agglomeration of smaller particles.
Energy and Efficiency Evaluation of Feedback Branch Design in Thermoacoustic Stirling-Like Engines
Authors: Iniesta Carmen , Olazagoitia José Luis , Vinolas Jordi , Gros Jaime
Published: October 2019

Stirling-like thermoacoustic generators are external combustion engines that provide useful acoustic power in the absence of moving parts with high reliability and respect for the environment. The study of these systems involves a great complexity since the parameters that describe them, besides being numerous, present a high degree of coupling between them. This implies a great difficulty in characterizing the effects of any parametric variation on the performance of these devices. Due to the huge amount of data to analyze, the experiments and simulations required to address the problem involve high investments in time and resources, sometimes unaffordable. This article presents, how a sensitivity analysis applying the response surface methodology can be applied to optimize the feedback branch of a thermoacoustic Stirling-like engine. The proposed study is made by evaluating the comparative relevance of seven design variables. The dimensional reduction process identifies three significant factors: the frequency of operation, the internal diameter of compliance, and the inertance. Subsequently, the Response Surface Methodology is applied to assess the interaction effects of these three design parameters on the efficiency of the thermoacoustic engine, and an improvement of 6% has been achieved. The enhanced values given by the response surface methodology are validated using the DeltaEC software.
Control Method of Parallel Inverters with Self-Synchronizing Characteristics in Distributed Microgrid
Authors: Yan Xiangwu , Cui Yang , Cui Sen
Published: October 2019

The centralized control mode is no longer applicable for microgrid operation due to the high penetration rate of distributed energy, which is responsible for the widespread interest in the use of the distributed microgrid. Focusing on the issues of power coupling and uncontrollable droop coefficient at the terminal of the connecting line between the micro-source and AC bus, which is rarely considered, this paper proposes an improved virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control strategy based on local data considering precise control of the droop coefficient and realizing the power decoupling and the expected droop characteristics. Then, combined with the virtual rotor characteristic matching method, the reasonable active and reactive power sharing of the parallel microgrid inverters are realized in terms of static and dynamic performance without additional improvement of reactive power control. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method are verified based on the MATLAB/Simulink simulation platform. The combination of the proved strategy and matching principle endows inverters with self-synchronization characteristics, forming the self-synchronizing voltage sources, which gives the distributed microgrid a higher self-stability, autonomy and robustness to ensure the stable operation of the microgrid.
Modelling and Analysis of Energy Harvesting in Internet of Things (IoT): Characterization of a Thermal Energy Harvesting Circuit for IoT based Applications with LTC3108
Authors: Afghan Syeda Adila , Géza Husi
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a simulation-based study for characterizing and analyzing the performance of a commercially available thermoelectric cooler (TEC) as a generator for harvesting heat energy along with a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) power management integrated circuit (PMIC); LTC3108. In this model, the transformation of heat was considered in terms of an electrical circuit simulation perspective, where temperature experienced by TEC on both cold and hot sides was incorporated with voltage supply as Vth and Vtc in the circuit. When it comes to modeling a system in a simulation program with an integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) like environment, the selection of thermoelectric generator (TEG) and extraction methods are not straightforward as well as the lack of information from manufacturer’s datasheets can limit the grip over the analysis parameters of the module. Therefore, it is mandatory to create a prototype before implementing it over a physical system for energy harvesting circuit (EHC) optimization. The major goal was to establish the basis for devising the thermal energy scavenging based Internet of Things (IoT) system with two configurations of voltage settings for the same TEG model. This study measured the data in terms of current, voltage, series of resistive loads and various temperature gradients for generating the required power. These generated power levels from EHC prototype were able to sustain the available IoT component’s power requirement, hence it could be considered for the implementation of IoT based applications.
Application of Synthetic Ester for Drying Distribution Transformer Insulation—The Influence of Cellulose Thickness on Drying Efficiency
Authors: Przybylek Piotr , Moranda Hubert , Moscicka-Grzesiak Hanna , Szczesniak Dominika
Published: October 2019

A high level of insulation moisture in a transformer increases the breakdown probability and forces a reduction of its load. Therefore, there is a need to dry the transformer insulation. For technical reasons, there are some restrictions on the use of common drying methods for cellulose insulation available on the market. The aim of the research was to check the possibility of using synthetic ester for effective drying of cellulose materials of various thickness and an evaluation of the drying dynamics. The replacement of mineral oil with a synthetic ester caused a reduction of moisture in paper and thin pressboard by one percentage point. It was possible in the case of drying these materials for seven days at a temperature of 70 °C. The effects of drying were much smaller in the case of thicker cellulose samples. This paper also shows the complex problem of simultaneously drying materials of different thicknesses. Drying thin paper and thick pressboard at the same time significantly slows down the drying process of the pressboard. Presented results will be used to develop a procedure for drying the transformer insulation system using a synthetic ester.
Segmental Track Analysis in Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Yang Shi-Chun , He Hong , Yan Xiao-Yu , Chen Yu-Hang , Hua Yang , Cao Yao-Guang , Li Jun , Li Hong-Hai , Yin Sheng
Published: October 2019

Electric vehicles have gained more and more attention because of the serious oil crisis and environmental problems. However, the disadvantages of the electric vehicle, such as short driving range, high battery cost, and inconvenient charging, are hindering its market development and expansion. The realization of on-road wireless power transfer technology can effectively solve the problems of short driving range, prevent the battery from being completely discharged to prolong its service life, and reduce requirement of on-board battery. In this paper, the charging mode and the compensation topology of wireless power transfer technology are discussed and then the equivalent circuit model of segmental wireless power transfer system is built. We carried out some magnetic field simulation to analyze how the track shape and length influence coupling coefficient, which is later verified by experiments.
Special Issue “Nanogrids, Microgrids, and the Internet of Things (IoT): Towards the Digital Energy Network”
Authors: Moreno-Munoz Antonio
Published: October 2019

I started hearing a lot about energy digitization a little over a year ago, talking to my colleagues during conferences and meetings [...]
Impact of Primary Frequency Control of Offshore HVDC Grids on Interarea Modes of Power Systems
Authors: Bidadfar Ali , Saborío-Romano Oscar , Akhmatov Vladislav , Cutululis Nicolaos A. , Sørensen Poul E.
Published: October 2019

Offshore high-voltage DC (HVDC) grids are developing as a technically reliable and economical solution to transfer more offshore wind power to onshore power systems. It is also foreseen that the offshore HVDC grids pave the way for offshore wind participation in power systems’ balancing process through frequency support. The primary frequency control mechanism in an HVDC grid can be either centralized using communication links between HVDC terminals or decentralized by the simultaneous use of DC voltage and frequency droop controls. This paper investigates the impact of both types of primary frequency control of offshore HVDC grids on onshore power system dynamics. Parametric presentation of power systems’ electro-mechanical dynamics and HVDC controls is developed to analytically prove that the primary frequency control can improve the damping of interarea modes of onshore power systems. The key findings of the paper include showing that the simultaneous use of frequency and DC voltage droop controls on onshore converters results in an autonomous share of damping torque between onshore power systems even without any participation of offshore wind farms in the frequency control. It is also found that the resulting damping from the frequency control of offshore HVDC is not always reliable as it can be nullified by the power limits of HVDC converters or wind farms. Therefore, using power oscillation damping control in parallel with frequency control is suggested. The analytical findings are verified by simulations on a three-terminal offshore HVDC grid.
Application of Dipole Array Acoustic Logging in the Evaluation of Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Shi Wenrui , Wang Xingzhi , Shi Yuanhui , Feng Aiguo , Zou Yu , Young Steven
Published: October 2019

In order to effectively evaluate shale gas reservoirs with low porosity, extra-low permeability, and no natural productivity, dipole array acoustic logging, which can provide various types of information including P-wave slowness (DTC) and S-wave slowness (DTS), is widely used. As the dipole array acoustic logging tool has a larger investigation depth and is suitable for complex borehole environments, such as those with a high wellbore temperature, high drilling fluid column pressure, or irregular borehole wall, it has been mainly applied to the evaluation of lithology, gas potential, fractures, and stimulation potential in shale gas reservoirs. The findings from a case study of the Sichuan Basin in China reveal that the acoustic slowness, S-P wave slowness ratio (RMSC), and S-wave anisotropy of the dipole array acoustic logging can be used to qualitatively identify reservoir lithology, gas potential, and fractures. Using the relationship between DTC and the total porosity of shale gas reservoirs, and combined with the compensated neutron (CNL) and shale content (Vsh) of the reservoir, a mathematical model for accurately calculating the total porosity of the shale gas reservoir can be established. By using the relationship between the RMSC and gas saturation in shale gas reservoirs and tied with density log (DEN), a mathematical model of gas saturation can be established, and the determination of gas saturation by the non-resistivity method can be achieved, delivering a solution to the issue that the electric model is not applicable under low resistivity conditions. The DTS, DTC, and DEN of shale can be used to calculate rock mechanic parameters such as the Poisson’s ratio (POIS) and Young’s modulus (YMOD), which can be used to evaluate the shale stimulation potential.
Boosting Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid over Pd Catalysts by Deposition of N-Containing Precursors on the Carbon Support
Authors: Golub Fedor S. , Beloshapkin Sergey , Gusel’nikov Artem V. , Bolotov Vasily A. , Parmon Valentin N. , Bulushev Dmitri A.
Published: October 2019

Formic acid is a promising liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) since it has relatively high hydrogen content (4.4 wt%), low inflammability, low toxicity and can be obtained from biomass or from CO2. The aim of the present research was the creation of efficient 1 wt% Pd catalysts supported on mesoporous graphitic carbon (Sibunit) for the hydrogen production from gas-phase formic acid. For this purpose, the carbon support was modified by pyrolysis of deposited precursors containing pyridinic nitrogen such as melamine (Mel), 2,2′-bipyridine (Bpy) or 1,10-phenanthroline (Phen) at 673 K. The following activity trend of the catalysts Pd/Mel/C > Pd/C ~ Pd/Bpy/C > Pd/Phen/C was obtained. The activity of the Pd/Mel/C catalyst was by a factor of 4 higher than the activity of the Pd/C catalyst at about 373 K and the apparent activation energy was significantly lower than those for the other catalysts (32 vs. 42–46 kJ/mol). The high activity of the melamine-based samples was explained by a high dispersion of Pd nanoparticles (~2 nm, HRTEM) and their strong electron-deficient character (XPS) provided by interaction of Pd with pyridinic nitrogen species of the support. The presented results can be used for the development of supported Pd catalysts for hydrogen production from different liquid organic hydrogen carriers.
Sensorial Network Framework Embedded in Ubiquitous Mobile Devices
Authors: Behan Miroslav , Krejcar Ondrej , Sabbah Thabit , Selamat Ali
Published: October 2019

Today’s digital society is interconnected and networked, with modern smart devices ubiquitously built into and embedded within smart environments and other environments, where people (their users) typically live. It is very important to mention that sensorial awareness of an environment depends on one’s current location and equipment, as well as the equipment’s real-time capabilities. Personal sensorial information is considered to be the key factor for progress in the improvement of the productivity of everyday life and creation of a smart surrounding environment. This paper describes the design, implementation, and testing process of a new sensorial framework based on the current possibilities created by ubiquitous smart mobile devices with sensors, which involves computing power and battery power issues. The two parts of the proposed framework have been designed, implemented, and tested. The client part is represented by a front-end mobile application, and the back-end part is represented by a server-side application. The analysis of the data, captured during the testing phase, involves the analysis of the processing time, battery consumption, and transmitted data amount. This analysis reveals that Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and user datagram protocol (UDP) protocols have a comparable performance, although TCP is preferable for use in local networks. In comparison to other solutions such as MobiSense or Feel the World framework, the final solution of the proposed and developed sensorial framework has two main capabilities, which are the security support and social networking possibilities. The advantage of the MobiSense platform is the existence of several real-world applications, whereas the proposed sensorial framework needs to be verified in the massive context of many users in real time.
Understanding the Terminology for Snack Foods and Their Texture by Consumers in Four Languages: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Chambers Edgar
Published: October 2019

The choice of food products is affected by the combination of food properties, consumer motives, emotions, and context, especially in cross-cultural studies. The designs of cross-cultural studies involve several limitations such as conceptual perception and linguistic and cultural differences in response style. These factors confine the validity and generalizability of such study models. In this study, we have combined linguistic and contextual perception together to generate consumer texture terminologies. Four focus groups discussions were conducted with consumers from nine different countries in English, Hindi, Mandarin, and Spanish. Vocabularies for sixteen texture terms were generated. Consumers provided a single consensus term that they typically use to describe contextual sensory perception. The results show that consumers use several terms to describe texture, and terms are very specific to product and related perception. The English translation of words like “snack”, “texture”, and other sensory texture terms are meaningless for non-English speaking cultures. Researchers are encouraged to validate (test) the structure of cross-cultural study models before application. Practical application: The findings of this study present a model which can be utilized to conduct cross-cultural research studies. The results can contribute to generate accurate consumer responses, acceptance, preference, and addressing consumers concerns. Food industries could leverage these by using our methodology in product development, finding consumer insights, effective communication, and products testing in international settings.
Characterization of the Spoilage Microbiota of Hake Fillets Packaged Under a Modified Atmosphere (MAP) Rich in CO2 (50% CO2/50% N2) and Stored at Different Temperatures
Authors: Antunes-Rohling Adriana , Calero Silvia , Halaihel Nabil , Marquina Pedro , Raso Javier , Calanche Juan , Beltrán José Antonio , Álvarez Ignacio , Cebrián Guillermo
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to characterize the spoilage microbiota of hake fillets stored under modified atmospheres (MAP) (50% CO2/50% N2) at different temperatures using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing and to compare the results with those obtained using traditional microbiology techniques. The results obtained indicate that, as expected, higher storage temperatures lead to shorter shelf-lives (the time of sensory rejection by panelists). Thus, the shelf-life decreased from six days to two days for Batch A when the storage temperature increased from 1 to 7 °C, and from five to two days—when the same increase in storage temperature was compared—for Batch B. In all cases, the trimethylamine (TMA) levels measured at the time of sensory rejection of hake fillets exceeded the recommended threshold of 5 mg/100 g. Photobacterium and Psychrobacter were the most abundant genera at the time of spoilage in all but one of the samples analyzed: Thus, Photobacterium represented between 19% and 46%, and Psychrobacter between 27% and 38% of the total microbiota. They were followed by Moritella, Carnobacterium, Shewanella, and Vibrio, whose relative order varied depending on the sample/batch analyzed. These results highlight the relevance of Photobacterium as a spoiler of hake stored in atmospheres rich in CO2. Further research will be required to elucidate if other microorganisms, such as Psychrobacter, Moritella, or Carnobacterium, also contribute to spoilage of hake when stored under MAP.
NGS Analysis for Molecular Diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP): Detection of a Novel Variant in PRPH2 Gene
Authors: Strafella Claudia , Caputo Valerio , Pagliaroli Giulia , Iozzo Nicola , Campoli Giulia , Carboni Stefania , Peconi Cristina , Galota Rosaria Maria , Zampatti Stefania , Minozzi Giulietta , Novelli Giuseppe , Giardina Emiliano , Cascella Raffaella
Published: October 2019

This work describes the application of NGS for molecular diagnosis of RP in a family with a history of severe hypovision. In particular, the proband received a clinical diagnosis of RP on the basis of medical, instrumental examinations and his family history. The proband was subjected to NGS, utilizing a customized panel including 24 genes associated with RP and other retinal dystrophies. The NGS analysis revealed a novel missense variant (c.668T > A, I223N) in PRPH2 gene, which was investigated by segregation and bioinformatic analysis. The variant is located in the D2 loop domain of PRPH2, which is critical for protein activity. Bioinformatic analysis described the c.668T > A as a likely pathogenic variant. Moreover, a 3D model prediction was performed to better characterize the impact of the variant on the protein, reporting a disruption of the α-helical structures. As a result, the variant protein showed a substantially different conformation with respect to the wild-type PRPH2. The identified variant may therefore affect the oligomerization ability of the D2 loop and, ultimately, hamper PRPH2 proper functioning and localization. In conclusion, PRPH2_c.668T > A provided a molecular explanation of RP symptomatology, highlighting the clinical utility of NGS panels to facilitate genotype–phenotype correlations.
An SNP-Based Genetic Map and QTL Mapping for Growth Traits in the Red-Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus akaara)
Authors: Wang Xiang , Jiang Shoujia , Zheng Leyun , Xiao Ling , Zhang Xinhui , Wang Dengdong , Li Shuisheng , Shi Qiong , Wu Shuiqing , Lin Haoran , You Xinxin , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2019

The red-spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara) is one of the most commercially important aquatic species in China. However, its seedstock has low larval survival rates, and its stability is confronted with the danger of overexploitation. In this study, a high-density genetic map was constructed using 3435 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 142 first generation (F1) full-sib offspring and two parents of a red-spotted grouper population. The total genetic length of the map was 2300.12 cM with an average intermarker distance of 0.67 cM. Seventeen genome-wide significant quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for growth-related traits were detected on 24 linkage groups, including 5 QTLs for full length, 7 QTLs for body length, and 5 QTLs for body weight. The contribution values of explained phenotypic variance ranged from 10.7% to 12.9%. Moreover, 13 potential candidate genes for growth-related traits were identified. Collectively, these findings will be useful for conducting marker-assisted selection of the red-spotted grouper in future studies.
Transcriptional Networks of Microglia in Alzheimer’s Disease and Insights into Pathogenesis
Authors: Chew Gabriel , Petretto Enrico
Published: October 2019

Microglia, the main immune cells of the central nervous system, are increasingly implicated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Manifold transcriptomic studies in the brain have not only highlighted microglia’s role in AD pathogenesis, but also mapped crucial pathological processes and identified new therapeutic targets. An important component of many of these transcriptomic studies is the investigation of gene expression networks in AD brain, which has provided important new insights into how coordinated gene regulatory programs in microglia (and other cell types) underlie AD pathogenesis. Given the rapid technological advancements in transcriptional profiling, spanning from microarrays to single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), tools used for mapping gene expression networks have evolved to keep pace with the unique features of each transcriptomic platform. In this article, we review the trajectory of transcriptomic network analyses in AD from brain to microglia, highlighting the corresponding methodological developments. Lastly, we discuss examples of how transcriptional network analysis provides new insights into AD mechanisms and pathogenesis.
Upregulated microRNA-106a Promotes Porcine Preadipocyte Proliferation and Differentiation by Targeting Different Genes
Authors: Huang Kuilong , Shi Xin’e , Wang Jie , Yao Ying , Peng Ying , Chen Xiaochang , Li Xiao , Yang Gongshe
Published: October 2019

Adipose tissue is one of the main organs for the energy storage and supply of organisms. Adipose deposition and metabolism are controlled by a cascade of transcription factors and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. Previous studies have also shown that miR-106a plays a considerable role in the development of organisms. The regulatory mechanism of miR-106a on porcine preadipocytes is still not clear. In this study, preadipocytes were isolated from the neck subcutaneous deposits of 3–5-day old Chinese native Guanzhong black pigs using 5-ethynyl-20-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining and a CCK-8 assay to detect the number of proliferous cells and real-time qPCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis to detect gene expression, as well as Oil Red O and BODIPY staining dye lipid droplets and flow cytometry (FCM) to detect cell cycles. We also used the double luciferase method to detect the relative luciferase activities. Upregulated miR-106a increased the number of proliferous cells and enhanced the expression of cell proliferation-related genes in porcine adipocytes. The double luciferase reporter vector confirmed that p21 was a target gene of miR-106a in the cell proliferation phase. miR-106a upregulation increased the number of lipid droplets and the expression of lipogenic genes and directly targeted BMP and activin membrane-bound inhibitor (BAMBI) in the process of differentiation. Our results indicated that miR-106a promotes porcine preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation by targeting p21 and BAMBI.
Correction: Berner, D. Allele Frequency Difference AFD—An Intuitive Alternative to FST for Quantifying Genetic Population Differentiation. Genes 2019, 10, 308
Authors: Berner Daniel
Published: October 2019

This note is to correct an error in my paper, concerning the Shannon differentiation metric (DShannon) (Reference [43] in the paper) [...]
Ambient Particulate Matter Exposure and Under-Five and Maternal Deaths in Asia
Authors: Lien Wei-Hung , Owili Patrick Opiyo , Muga Miriam Adoyo , Lin Tang-Huang
Published: October 2019

The Asian region is one of the major emission sources of air pollution. Although ambient PM2.5 has been linked to several health risks in high-, low-, and middle-income countries, the further analysis of type impact is still rare but significant. The PM2.5 distribution retrieved from MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) aerosol optical depth products within 16 years thus explored the associations between under-five and maternal mortality for 45 countries in Asia. Both the nonparametric (Generalized Additive Mixed-Effect) and parametric (Generalized Linear Mixed-Effect) models were employed to analyze the collected datasets. The results show that the levels of PM2.5 in Asian sub-regions were higher than the Global Air Quality Standards. Biomass PM2.5 concentrations was associated with increased the rate of under-five (Incidence Rate Ratio, IRR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.13–1.47) and maternal (IRR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.08–1.10) deaths in Asia. Anthropogenic PM2.5 was associated with increased rate of under-five deaths in Asia by 12%. The nonparametric method revealed that dust PM2.5 was positively associated with the under-five (β = 0.04, p < 0.001) and maternal (β = 0.07, p < 0.001) deaths in Asia. The rate of maternal deaths was increased by biomass/dust (IRR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.63–1.65) and anthropogenic/dust (IRR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.19–1.26) mixture types. In summary, long-term exposure to different types of ambient PM2.5 in high concentration increased the rate of under-five and maternal deaths, suggesting that policies focusing on preventive and control measures is imperative for developing an improved maternal, newborn, and child health in Asia.
Probiotics for the Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Ziyue , He Yining , Zheng Yingjie
Published: October 2019

Background: The effect of probiotic therapy on bacterial vaginosis (BV) is controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety associated with probiotic treatment for BV. Methods: We searched multiple databases covering up to 1 March 2018. Studies published as blinded randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparing treatment using probiotic versus active or placebo control in BV patients were included, with at least one-month follow-up. Random effects model and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were applied. Results: Ten studies (n = 2321) were included. Compared with placebo, the probiotics-only therapy resulted in a beneficial outcome both in clinical cure rate at the 30th day (risk ratio, RR = 2.57; 95% confidential interval, 95% CI: 1.96 to 3.37), and Nugent score (mean difference, MD = −2.71; 95% CI: −3.41 to −2.00). This effect decreased but remained significant after eight weeks. Probiotics-post-antibiotics therapy had a decreased effect only for a short term and possibly among studies with a mostly black study population. No extra adverse events were observed. The TSA suggested a larger sample size for effective evaluation of the probiotics as a supplementary remedy. Conclusions: Probiotic regimes are safe and may exhibit a short-term and long-term beneficial effect for BV treatment. The ethnic-specific result for the probiotic used after antibiotics is worthy of further study.
Tactile Sensitivity of Women with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Jajor Julia , Kostiukow Anna , Samborski Włodzimierz , Rostkowska Elżbieta , Śliwa Aleksandra , Antosiak-Cyrak Katarzyna
Published: October 2019

Physical manifestations of Turner syndrome include short stature, a webbed neck, and a shield chest with widely spaced nipples. An aspect of the disease which has not been sufficiently explored so far is the tactile sensitivity of Turner syndrome patients. Thus, the aim of the study was to assess the threshold of tactile sensitivity on hands and feet of women suffering from Turner syndrome. Information on the participants of the study was collected on the basis of questionnaires, as well as anthropometric measurements using a skinfold caliper. Semmes-Weinstein Aesthesiometer was used to find the tactile sensitivity threshold of hands and feet of study participants. Based on the results of the study, significant differences in tactile sensitivity between women with Turner syndrome and healthy women were found. Affected women seem be more sensitive to the touch on the feet than healthy volunteers. The results of the study showed that the tactile sensitivity of women with Turner syndrome is different from that of healthy women.
Profiles of Problematic Internet Use and Its Impact on Adolescents’ Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Machimbarrena Juan , González-Cabrera Joaquín , Ortega-Barón Jéssica , Beranuy-Fargues Marta , Álvarez-Bardón Aitor , Tejero Blanca
Published: October 2019

The internet has been a breakthrough for adolescents in many ways, but its use can also become dysfunctional and problematic, leading to consequences for personal well-being. The main objective is to analyze profiles related to problematic internet use and its relationship with health-related quality of life (HRQoL). An analytical and cross-sectional study was carried out in a region of northern Spain. The sample comprised 12,285 participants. Sampling was random and representative. Mean age and standard deviation was 14.69 ± 1.73 (11–18 years). The Spanish versions of the Problematic and Generalized Internet Use Scale (GPIUS2) and of the Health-Related Quality of Life (KIDSCREEN-27) were used. Four profiles were detected (non-problematic use, mood regulator, problematic internet use, and severe problematic use). The prevalence of these last two profiles was 18.5% and 4.9%, respectively. Problematic internet use correlated negatively and significantly with HRQoL. The severe problematic use profile presented a significant decrease in all dimensions of HRQoL. Analyses were carried out to extract a cut-off point for GPIUS2 (52 points). The results and practical implications are discussed.
Career Development Support, Job Adaptation, and Withdrawal Intention of Expatriates: A Multilevel Analysis of Environmental Factors
Authors: Song Hemin , Zhao Shuai , Zhao Wenwen , Han Hua
Published: October 2019

The present study aims to explore the impact of career development support on job adaptation and withdrawal intention, and the multilevel moderating role of host country environmental factors. Through the questionnaire survey, we collected 242 expatriates’ data of 25 countries from China’s multinational corporations. Based on the constructed multilevel analysis model, we find: (1) career development support has a significant impact on job adaptation and withdrawal intention of expatriates; (2) job adaptation plays a mediating role between career development support and withdrawal intention; and (3) host country environment plays the multilevel moderating role between career development support and job adaptation. Through the multilevel model of host country environment, this study explores the mechanism of how career development support affects job adaptation and withdrawal intention. The conclusions enhance the understanding of the adaptation of expatriates and have important theoretical and practical reference value to achieve successful expatriate in the context of host country environment.
Deciphering the Impact of Early-Life Exposures to Highly Variable Environmental Factors on Foetal and Child Health: Design of SEPAGES Couple-Child Cohort
Authors: Lyon-Caen Sarah , Siroux Valérie , Lepeule Johanna , Lorimier Philippe , Hainaut Pierre , Mossuz Pascal , Quentin Joane , Supernant Karine , Meary David , Chaperot Laurence , Bayat Sam , Cassee Flemming , Valentino Sarah , Couturier-Tarrade Anne , Rousseau-Ralliard Delphine , Chavatte-Palmer Pascale , Philippat Claire , Pin Isabelle , Slama Rémy ,   The SEPAGES Study Group
Published: October 2019

In humans, studies based on Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept and targeting short half-lived chemicals, including many endocrine disruptors, generally assessed exposures from spot biospecimens. Effects of early-life exposure to atmospheric pollutants were reported, based on outdoor air pollution levels. For both exposure families, exposure misclassification is expected from these designs: for non-persistent chemicals, because a spot biospecimen is unlikely to capture exposure over windows longer than a few days; for air pollutants, because indoor levels are ignored. We developed a couple-child cohort relying on deep phenotyping and extended personal exposure assessment aiming to better characterize the effects of components of the exposome, including air pollutants and non-persistent endocrine disruptors, on child health and development. Pregnant women were included in SEPAGES couple-child cohort (Grenoble area) from 2014 to 2017. Maternal and children exposure to air pollutants was repeatedly assessed by personal monitors. DNA, RNA, serum, plasma, placenta, cord blood, meconium, child and mother stools, living cells, milk, hair and repeated urine samples were collected. A total of 484 pregnant women were recruited, with excellent compliance to the repeated urine sampling protocol (median, 43 urine samples per woman during pregnancy). The main health outcomes are child respiratory health using early objective measures, growth and neurodevelopment. Compared to former studies, the accuracy of assessment of non-persistent exposures is expected to be strongly improved in this new type of birth cohort tailored for the exposome concept, with deep phenotyping and extended exposure characterization. By targeting weaknesses in exposure assessment of the current approaches of cohorts on effects of early life environmental exposures with strong temporal variations, and relying on a rich biobank to provide insight on the underlying biological pathways whereby exposures affect health, this design is expected to provide deeper understanding of the interplay between the Exposome and child development and health.
Quality of Care for Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) in Pakistan: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Rehman Shazia , Li Xi , Wang Chao , Ikram Muhammad , Rehman Erum , Liu Meina
Published: October 2019

A wide variation exists in the practice patterns of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) care worldwide, leading to differences in clinical outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the quality of process care and its impact on in-hospital outcomes among AMI patients in Pakistan, as no such study has been conducted in Pakistan thus far based upon recommended guidelines. We investigated a sample of 2663 AMI patients across 11 territory hospitals in Punjab province of Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017, with an in-hospital mortality rate of 8.6%. We calculated compliance rates of quality indicators (QIs) for all eligible patients. The association between process care and in-hospital outcome was assessed using hierarchical generalized linear model that adjusted for patient and hospital characteristics. In addition, we examined the effect of patient composite scores on clinical outcomes. Aspirin (73.08%) and clopidogrel (67.86%) indicated relatively better conformance than other QIs. The percutaneous coronary intervention also showed significantly low adherence. All QIs showed no significant association with in-hospital mortality. In contrast, 4 out of 8 QIs were observed positively correlated with in-hospital length of stay (LOS). The overall patient composite score was found to be statistically significant with in-hospital LOS. The assessment of quality of care showed low adherence to clinical care recommendations, and increased adherence was associated with longer in-hospital LOS among AMI patients. Evaluation of valid QIs for AMI treatment and their impact on in-hospital outcomes is an important tool for improving health care delivery in the overall AMI population in Pakistan. Low adherence to performance measures strongly compel to focus on guideline-based tools for AMI in Pakistan.
Pricing Strategy of Construction and Demolition Waste Considering Retailer Fairness Concerns under a Governmental Regulation Environment
Authors: Li Deng , Peng Ying , Guo Chunxiang , Tan Ruwen
Published: October 2019

In order to investigate the issues of the recycling and remanufacturing of construction and demolition waste (C&D waste), this paper develops a closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) consisting of a manufacturer, a retailer, and a recycler, considering both the retailer’s fairness concern psychology and governmental regulations. Four mathematical models are developed for the calculations, and the models are solved through game theory. In both the decentralized and centralized scenarios, the members’ strategies are discussed and the optimal values of decision variables are determined. A numerical study is carried out for sensitivity analyses to verify the accuracy of the theoretical conclusions. The results reveal that retailer fairness concerns lead to a decrease in the wholesale price of building materials and negatively affect manufacturers’ profits. Additionally, governmental regulations can effectively increase the recycling amount and improve the utilization rate of C&D waste, and promote a virtuous cycle of the recycling and remanufacturing of C&D waste.
Geographical Analysis on the Projection and Distortion of INŌ’s Tokyo Map in 1817
Authors: Iwai Yuki , Murayama Yuji
Published: October 2019

The history of modern maps in Japan begins with the Japan maps (called INŌ’s maps) prepared by Tadataka Inō after he thoroughly surveyed the whole of Japan around 200 years ago. The purpose of this study was to investigate the precision degree of INŌ’s Tokyo map by overlaying it with present maps and analyzing the map style (map projection, map scale, etc.). Specifically, we quantitatively examined the spatial distortion of INŌ’s maps through comparisons with the present map using GIS (geographic information system), a spatial analysis tool. Furthermore, by examining various factors that caused the positional gap and distortion of features, we explored the actual situation of surveying in that age from a geographical viewpoint. As a result of the analysis, a particular spatial regularity was confirmed in the positional gaps with the present map. We found that INŌ’s Tokyo map had considerably high precision. The causes of positional gaps from the present map were related not only to natural conditions, such as areas and land but also to social and cultural phenomena.