bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of Ordered and Disordered Structural Elements in Postsynaptic Proteins Supports Optimization for Interaction Diversity
Authors: Kiss-Tóth Annamária , Dobson Laszlo , Péterfia Bálint , Ángyán Annamária F. , Ligeti Balázs , Lukács Gergely , Gáspári Zoltán
Published: August 2019

The human postsynaptic density is an elaborate network comprising thousands of proteins, playing a vital role in the molecular events of learning and the formation of memory. Despite our growing knowledge of specific proteins and their interactions, atomic-level details of their full three-dimensional structure and their rearrangements are mostly elusive. Advancements in structural bioinformatics enabled us to depict the characteristic features of proteins involved in different processes aiding neurotransmission. We show that postsynaptic protein-protein interactions are mediated through the delicate balance of intrinsically disordered regions and folded domains, and this duality is also imprinted in the amino acid sequence. We introduce Diversity of Potential Interactions (DPI), a structure and regulation based descriptor to assess the diversity of interactions. Our approach reveals that the postsynaptic proteome has its own characteristic features and these properties reliably discriminate them from other proteins of the human proteome. Our results suggest that postsynaptic proteins are especially susceptible to forming diverse interactions with each other, which might be key in the reorganization of the postsynaptic density (PSD) in molecular processes related to learning and memory.
Maximum Entropy Methods for Loss Data Analysis: Aggregation and Disaggregation Problems
Authors: Gomes-Gonçalves Erika , Gzyl Henryk , Mayoral Silvia
Published: August 2019

The analysis of loss data is of utmost interest in many branches of the financial and insurance industries, in structural engineering and in operation research, among others. In the financial industry, the determination of the distribution of losses is the first step to take to compute regulatory risk capitals; in insurance we need the distribution of losses to determine the risk premia. In reliability analysis one needs to determine the distribution of accumulated damage or the first time of occurrence of a composite event, and so on. Not only that, but in some cases we have data on the aggregate risk, but we happen to be interested in determining the statistical nature of the different types of events that contribute to the aggregate loss. Even though in many of these branches of activity one may have good theoretical descriptions of the underlying processes, the nature of the problems is such that we must resort to numerical methods to actually compute the loss distributions. Besides being able to determine numerically the distribution of losses, we also need to assess the dependence of the distribution of losses and that of the quantities computed with it, on the empirical data. It is the purpose of this note to illustrate the how the maximum entropy method and its extensions can be used to deal with the various issues that come up in the computation of the distribution of losses. These methods prove to be robust and allow for extensions to the case when the data has measurement errors and/or is given up to an interval.
A Novel Autonomous Perceptron Model for Pattern Classification Applications
Authors: Sagheer Alaa , Zidan Mohammed , Abdelsamea Mohammed
Published: August 2019

Pattern classification represents a challenging problem in machine learning and data science research domains, especially when there is a limited availability of training samples. In recent years, artificial neural network (ANN) algorithms have demonstrated astonishing performance when compared to traditional generative and discriminative classification algorithms. However, due to the complexity of classical ANN architectures, ANNs are sometimes incapable of providing efficient solutions when addressing complex distribution problems. Motivated by the mathematical definition of a quantum bit (qubit), we propose a novel autonomous perceptron model (APM) that can solve the problem of the architecture complexity of traditional ANNs. APM is a nonlinear classification model that has a simple and fixed architecture inspired by the computational superposition power of the qubit. The proposed perceptron is able to construct the activation operators autonomously after a limited number of iterations. Several experiments using various datasets are conducted, where all the empirical results show the superiority of the proposed model as a classifier in terms of accuracy and computational time when it is compared with baseline classification models.
Entropy, Fluctuations, and Disordered Proteins
Authors: Faraggi Eshel , Dunker A. Keith , Jernigan Robert L. , Kloczkowski Andrzej
Published: August 2019

Entropy should directly reflect the extent of disorder in proteins. By clustering structurally related proteins and studying the multiple-sequence-alignment of the sequences of these clusters, we were able to link between sequence, structure, and disorder information. We introduced several parameters as measures of fluctuations at a given MSA site and used these as representative of the sequence and structure entropy at that site. In general, we found a tendency for negative correlations between disorder and structure, and significant positive correlations between disorder and the fluctuations in the system. We also found evidence for residue-type conservation for those residues proximate to potentially disordered sites. Mutation at the disorder site itself appear to be allowed. In addition, we found positive correlation for disorder and accessible surface area, validating that disordered residues occur in exposed regions of proteins. Finally, we also found that fluctuations in the dihedral angles at the original mutated residue and disorder are positively correlated while dihedral angle fluctuations in spatially proximal residues are negatively correlated with disorder. Our results seem to indicate permissible variability in the disordered site, but greater rigidity in the parts of the protein with which the disordered site interacts. This is another indication that disordered residues are involved in protein function.
An Ant Colony Optimization Based on Information Entropy for Constraint Satisfaction Problems
Authors: Guan Boxin , Zhao Yuhai , Li Yuan
Published: August 2019

Solving the constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) is to find an assignment of values to variables that satisfies a set of constraints. Ant colony optimization (ACO) is an efficient algorithm for solving CSPs. However, the existing ACO-based algorithms suffer from the constructed assignment with high cost. To improve the solution quality of ACO for solving CSPs, an ant colony optimization based on information entropy (ACOE) is proposed in this paper. The proposed algorithm can automatically call a crossover-based local search according to real-time information entropy. We first describe ACOE for solving CSPs and show how it constructs assignments. Then, we use a ranking-based strategy to update the pheromone, which weights the pheromone according to the rank of these ants. Furthermore, we introduce the crossover-based local search that uses a crossover operation to optimize the current best assignment. Finally, we compare ACOE with seven algorithms on binary CSPs. The experimental results revealed that our method outperformed the other compared algorithms in terms of the cost comparison, data distribution, convergence performance, and hypothesis test.
Application of the Lyapunov Algorithm to Optimize the Control Strategy of Low-Voltage and High-Current Synchronous DC Generator Systems
Authors: Liu Jinfeng , Tan Xiaohai , Wang Xudong , Ho-Ching IU Herbert
Published: August 2019

In the present study, a novel multiple three-phase low-voltage and high-current permanent magnet synchronous generation system is proposed, which has only half-turn coils per phase. The proposed system is composed of a generator and two confluence plates with 108 rectifier modules. The output can reach up to 10,000 A continuous DC power supply, which is suitable for the outdoors and non-commercial power supply. The application of the Lyapunov algorithm in the synchronous rectification control was optimized. A current sharing loop control was added to the closed-loop control to ensure a stable output voltage and the output current sharing of each rectifier module. Since the two control variables solved by the Lyapunov algorithm were coupled and the negative definite function of the Lyapunov algorithm could not be guaranteed in this system, a simple decoupling method was used to decouple the control variables. Compared to the conventional control, the proposed strategy highly improved the dynamic performance of the system. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy was verified by the simulation. The 5 V/10,000 A hardware experiment platform was built, which proved the feasibility and validity of the proposed strategy for a high-power generation system.
A Comprehensive Double-Vector Approach to Alleviate Common-Mode Voltage in Three-Phase Voltage-Source Inverters with a Predictive Control Algorithm
Authors: Jun Eun-Su , Park So-young , Kwak Sangshin
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a comprehensive double-vector approach is proposed to alleviate the common-mode voltage of voltage-source inverters based on a model predictive control scheme. Only six active vectors are selected to alleviate the common-mode voltage. Furthermore, one sampling period must be split to apply two non-zero vectors, which can generate currents with small current ripples and errors, despite not using zero vectors. The developed algorithm regards in full all 36 possible cases combined by two non-zero active vectors when selecting two vectors and splitting them into one sampling period. Thus, an optimal future set of two non-zero active vectors and optimal durations of two non-zero active vectors to produce the smallest current errors between the real currents and the reference in future load current trajectories were selected from 36 entire sets. This was done to minimize the cost function defined at the time when it varies from the first vector to the second vector and at the next sampling instant. Thus, the proposed algorithm can control the output currents with a fast transient response and reduce output-current ripples and errors, as well as alleviate the common-mode voltage to ± V d c / 6 .
Parameter Matching Optimization of a Powertrain System of Hybrid Electric Vehicles Based on Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Fu Xiaoling , Zhang Qi , Tang Jiyun , Wang Chao
Published: August 2019

Aiming at problems of large computational complexity and poor reliability, a parameter matching optimization method of a powertrain system of hybrid electric vehicles based on multi-objective optimization is proposed in this paper. First, according to the vehicle basic parameters and performance indicators, the parameter ranges of different components were analyzed and calculated; then, with the weight coefficient method, the multi-objective optimization (MOO) problem of fuel consumption and emissions was transformed into a single-objective optimization problem; finally, the co-simulation of AVL Cruise and Matlab/Simulink was achieved to evaluate the effects of parameter matching through the objective function. The research results show that the proposed parameter matching optimization method for hybrid electric vehicles based on multi-objective optimization can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions of a vehicle simultaneously and thus provides an optimized vehicle configuration for energy management strategy research. The method proposed in this paper has a high application value in the optimization design of electric vehicles.
Analysis of the Effect of the Variable Charging Current Control Method on Cycle Life of Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Cho In-Ho , Lee Pyeong-Yeon , Kim Jong-Hoon
Published: August 2019

Applications of rechargeable batteries have recently expanded from small information technology (IT) devices to a wide range of other industrial sectors, including vehicles, rolling stocks, and energy storage system (ESS), as a part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance convenience. The capacity of rechargeable batteries adopted in individual products is meanwhile increasing and the price of the batteries in such products has become an important factor in determining the product price. In the case of electric vehicles, the price of batteries has increased to more than 40% of the total product cost. In response, various battery management technologies are being studied to increase the service life of products with large-capacity batteries and reduce maintenance costs. In this paper, a charging algorithm to increase the service life of batteries is proposed. The proposed charging algorithm controls charging current in anticipation of heating inside the battery while the battery is being charged. The validity of the proposed charging algorithm is verified through an experiment to compare charging cycles using high-capacity type lithium-ion cells and high-power type lithium-ion cells.
Improved Performance of a PV Integrated Ventilated Façade at an Existing nZEB
Authors: Tejero-González Ana , Krawczyk Dorota Anna , Martín-Sanz García José Ramón , Rey-Martínez Francisco Javier , Velasco-Gómez Eloy
Published: August 2019

Ventilated façades are among the existing measures to reduce the energy demand in buildings. The combination of this passive heating and cooling strategy with photovoltaics (PV) can drive new buildings towards the current European targets near or even to net zero energy Buildings (nZEB). The present work studies the thermal behavior of the PV integrated ventilated façade applied in the nZEB known as “LUCIA” (acronym in Spanish for “University Centre to Launch Applied Research”) at the University of Valladolid, Spain. The aim is to evaluate the interest of recirculating indoor air within the façade during winter, as an alternative to the present preferred operating mode during the target season, in which the façade acts as further insulation. First, the radiant properties of the PV façade are measured to use the values in a mathematical model that describes the behavior of the ventilated façade in its current operating mode in winter. Then, the solar radiation available, the air-dry bulb temperatures indoors, outdoors and inside the ventilated façade are monitored to obtain experimental data to validate the model. The results show that air recirculation can entail favorable heat gains during 10% of winter, being this alternative preferable to the present operating mode when outdoor temperatures are over 18.4 °C.
Systematic Simplified Simulation Methodology for Deep Energy Retrofitting Towards Nze Targets Using Life Cycle Energy Assessment
Authors: Sánchez Ramos José , Guerrero Delgado MCarmen , Álvarez Domínguez Servando , Molina Félix José Luis , Sánchez de la Flor Francisco José , Tenorio Ríos José Antonio
Published: August 2019

The reduction of energy consumption in the residential sector presents substantial potential through the implementation of energy efficiency improvement measures. Current trends involve the use of simulation tools which obtain the buildings’ energy performance to support the development of possible solutions to help reduce energy consumption. However, simulation tools demand considerable amounts of data regarding the buildings’ geometry, construction, and frequency of use. Additionally, the measured values tend to be different from the estimated values obtained with the use of energy simulation programs, an issue known as the ‘performance gap’. The proposed methodology provides a solution for both of the aforementioned problems, since the amount of data needed is considerably reduced and the results are calibrated using measured values. This new approach allows to find an optimal retrofitting project by life cycle energy assessment, in terms of cost and energy savings, for individual buildings as well as several blocks of buildings. Furthermore, the potential for implementation of the methodology is proven by obtaining a comprehensive energy rehabilitation plan for a residential building. The developed methodology provides highly accurate estimates of energy savings, directly linked to the buildings’ real energy needs, reducing the difference between the consumption measured and the predictions.
Risk Assessment Method for Integrated Transmission–Distribution System Considering the Reactive Power Regulation Capability of DGs
Authors: Wang Qi , Sun Dasong , Hu Jianxiong , Wu Yi , Zhou Ji , Tang Yi
Published: August 2019

High distributed generation (DG) penetration makes the traditional method of equalizing the distribution power system (DPS) to the PQ load bus in the risk assessment of the transmission power system (TPS) no longer applicable. This paper proposes a risk assessment method for an integrated transmission–distribution system that considers the reactive power regulation capability of the DGs. Based on the DG’s characteristics and network constraints, the regulation capacity is mapped to the boundary buses of the distribution networks. Coordinating the relationship between reactive power and active power, the utilization of the regulation capacity is maximized to reduce the load shedding in the fault analysis of the TPS. Simulation results in the integrated transmission–distribution system illustrate that the effective use of the regulation capacity of the DPS can reduce the risk of the TPS. The method can be applied to the reactive power sources planning and dispatching of power system.
Densification and Combustion of Cherry Stones
Authors: Dołżyńska Magdalena , Obidziński Sławomir , Kowczyk-Sadowy Małgorzata , Krasowska Małgorzata
Published: August 2019

The aim of the presented research was to determine the suitability of cherry stones as a solid fuel. Mixtures of cherry stones with the addition of 10%, 15%, and 20% rye bran as a binder were subjected to the pressure agglomeration process in a rotary matrix working system (170, 220, and 270 rpm). The density of pellets, their kinetic durability, and power demand of the granulator’s device for each mix were determined. The highest quality was characterized by pellets containing 20% rye bran, which were combusted in a 25 kW boiler with a retort grate. The concentration of CO, CO2, NO, SO2, HCl, and O2 in the exhaust gas was tested. On the basis of the results of combustion, high heating value (HHV), low heating value (LHV), and elemental analysis, it was found that pellets from cherry stones with the addition of rye bran can serve as a substitute for wood pellets in low-power installations.
Special Issue “Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer”
Authors: Jaworski Artur J.
Published: August 2019

Fluid flow and heat transfer processes play an important role in many areas of science and engineering from the planetary scale (e [...]
LncRNAs and PRC2: Coupled Partners in Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Fiorenzano Alessandro , Pascale Emilia , Patriarca Eduardo Jorge , Minchiotti Gabriella , Fico Annalisa
Published: August 2019

The power of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) lies in their ability to self-renew and differentiate. Behind these two unique capabilities is a fine-tuned molecular network that shapes the genetic, epigenetic, and epitranscriptomic ESC plasticity. Although RNA has been shown to be functionally important in only a small minority of long non-coding RNA genes, a growing body of evidence has highlighted the pivotal and intricate role of lncRNAs in chromatin remodeling. Due to their multifaceted nature, lncRNAs interact with DNA, RNA, and proteins, and are emerging as new modulators of extensive gene expression programs through their participation in ESC-specific regulatory circuitries. Here, we review the tight cooperation between lncRNAs and Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which is intimately involved in determining and maintaining the ESC epigenetic landscape. The lncRNA-PRC2 partnership is fundamental in securing the fully pluripotent state of ESCs, which must be primed to differentiate properly. We also reflect on the advantages brought to this field of research by the advent of single-cell analysis.
Transcriptome Sequencing and Expression Analysis of Genes Related to Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Leaves of Malus ‘Profusion’ Infected by Japanese Apple Rust
Authors: Liu Pengyuan , Wang Yilin , Meng Jiaxin , Zhang Xian , Zhou Jing , Han Meiling , Yang Chen , Gan Lingxin , Li Houhua
Published: August 2019

Anthocyanins play many roles in plants, including providing protection from biotic and abiotic stresses. Japanese apple rust (Gymnosporangium yamadae Miyabe ex G. Yamada) causes serious diseases in plants of the genus Malus and results in reduced fruit production and quality. However, few studies have been done to unravel the molecular mechanisms of anthocyanin formation in rust-infected apple leaves. To identify new regulatory genes in apple leaves that may be involved in regulating rust-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis, we measured anthocyanin content and sequenced the transcriptomes of rust-infected and uninfected tissues of Malus ‘Profusion’ leaves. Significant color changes and anthocyanin enrichment (especially cyanidin-3-galactoside chloride) occurred in infected tissues, whereas no significant color change and a low anthocyanin level were observed in uninfected tissue. We identified 10,045 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in these two tissue types, including 6021 genes that were upregulated in the infected tissue and 4024 genes that were downregulated. We also identified five structural genes that are putative regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis. In addition, 56 MYB genes, 36 bHLH genes, and one WD40 gene were identified among the obtained DEGs. According to the phylogeny of the amino acid sequences of transcription factors known to be involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, one MYB gene (MYB114-like) and two bHLH genes (bHLH33 and bHLHA-like) may relate to anthocyanin biosynthesis in rust-infected apple leaves. These data will provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying anthocyanin accumulation upon rust infection.
Micronutrient Analysis of Gluten-Free Products: Their Low Content Is Not Involved in Gluten-Free Diet Imbalance in a Cohort of Celiac Children and Adolescent
Authors: Larretxi Idoia , Txurruka Itziar , Navarro Virginia , Lasa Arrate , Bustamante María , Fernández-Gil María , Simón Edurne , Miranda Jonatan
Published: August 2019

Data about the nutritional composition of gluten-free products (GFP) are still limited. Most studies are based on ingredient and nutrition information described on the food label. However, analytical determination is considered the gold standard for compositional analysis of food. Micronutrient analytical content differences were observed in a selection of GF breads, flakes and pasta, when compared with their respective gluten-containing counterparts. In general terms, lower iron, piridoxin, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, folate, manganese and vitamin B5 can be underlined. Variations in biotin and vitamin E content differed among groups. In order to clarify the potential contribution of the GFP to the gluten-free diet’s (GFD) micronutrient shortages, analytical data were used to evaluate GFD in a cohort of celiac children and adolescent. Participants did not reach recommendations for vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin D, biotin, iodine, and copper. It does not seem that the lower micronutrient content of the analyzed GFP groups contributed to the micronutrient deficits detected in GFD in this cohort, whose diet was not balanced. Nevertheless, GFP fortification for folate and biotin is proposed to prevent the deficiencies observed in GFD, at least in the case of pediatric celiac disease.
Long Non-Coding RNA Expression Levels Modulate Cell-Type-Specific Splicing Patterns by Altering Their Interaction Landscape with RNA-Binding Proteins
Authors: Porto Felipe Wendt , Daulatabad Swapna Vidhur , Janga Sarath Chandra
Published: August 2019

Recent developments in our understanding of the interactions between long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and cellular components have improved treatment approaches for various human diseases including cancer, vascular diseases, and neurological diseases. Although investigation of specific lncRNAs revealed their role in the metabolism of cellular RNA, our understanding of their contribution to post-transcriptional regulation is relatively limited. In this study, we explore the role of lncRNAs in modulating alternative splicing and their impact on downstream protein–RNA interaction networks. Analysis of alternative splicing events across 39 lncRNA knockdown and wildtype RNA-sequencing datasets from three human cell lines—HeLa (cervical cancer), K562 (myeloid leukemia), and U87 (glioblastoma)—resulted in the high-confidence (false discovery rate (fdr) < 0.01) identification of 11,630 skipped exon events and 5895 retained intron events, implicating 759 genes to be impacted at the post-transcriptional level due to the loss of lncRNAs. We observed that a majority of the alternatively spliced genes in a lncRNA knockdown were specific to the cell type. In tandem, the functions annotated to the genes affected by alternative splicing across each lncRNA knockdown also displayed cell-type specificity. To understand the mechanism behind this cell-type-specific alternative splicing pattern, we analyzed RNA-binding protein (RBP)–RNA interaction profiles across the spliced regions in order to observe cell-type-specific alternative splice event RBP binding preference. Despite limited RBP binding data across cell lines, alternatively spliced events detected in lncRNA perturbation experiments were associated with RBPs binding in proximal intron–exon junctions in a cell-type-specific manner. The cellular functions affected by alternative splicing were also affected in a cell-type-specific manner. Based on the RBP binding profiles in HeLa and K562 cells, we hypothesize that several lncRNAs are likely to exhibit a sponge effect in disease contexts, resulting in the functional disruption of RBPs and their downstream functions. We propose that such lncRNA sponges can extensively rewire post-transcriptional gene regulatory networks by altering the protein–RNA interaction landscape in a cell-type-specific manner.
Ballasted Flocs Capture Pelagic Primary Production and Alter the Local Sediment Characteristics in the Coastal German Bight (North Sea)
Authors: Neumann Andreas , Hass H. Christian , Möbius Jürgen , Naderipour Céline
Published: August 2019

Suspended, organic matter, especially in the form of adhesive extracellular polymers (EPS), tends to form flocs, which may also incorporate suspended lithogenic particles in coastal environments. With an increased settling velocity, these ballasted flocs form in a narrow zone along the coast and potentially represent a major source of pelagic primary production for the benthic community. We sought support for this hypothesis by examining our measurements of the mud content, porosity, permeability, pigment content, and specific respiration rate of sediment from the German Bight (North Sea) for signs that the pelagic zone of ballasted floc formation is affecting the local sediment characteristics. Based on a simple bottom-shear stress model and by employing empirical correlations of sediment characteristics we were able to find strong indications that this is actually the case. Our results demonstrate how ballasted flocs contribute to the benthic pelagic coupling in a high turbulence environment.
133,000 Years of Sedimentary Record in a Contourite Drift in the Western Alboran Sea: Sediment Sources and Paleocurrent Reconstruction
Authors: López-González Nieves , Alonso Belén , Juan Carmen , Ercilla Gemma , Bozzano Graziella , Cacho Isabel , Casas David , Palomino Desirée , Vázquez Juan-Tomás , Estrada Ferran , Bárcenas Patricia , d’Acremont Elia , Gorini Christian , Moumni Bouchta El
Published: August 2019

The Djibouti Ville Drift is part of a contourite depositional system located on the southern side of the Djibouti Ville Seamount in the Alboran Sea (Western Mediterranean). The sedimentary record of a core located in the drift deposits has been characterized to achieve the possible sediment sources for the Saharan dust supply and the paleocurrent variability related to Mediterranean intermediate waters for the last 133 kyr. Three end-member grain-size distributions characterize the sediment record transported by the bottom current to address the different aeolian populations, i.e., coarse EM1, silty EM2, and fine EM3. For these particles, the most likely source areas are the Saharan sedimentary basins and deserts, as well as the cratonic basins of the Sahara-Sahel Dust Corridor. The prevalence of these main source areas is shown in the core record, where a noticeable change occurs during the MIS 5 to MIS 4 transition. Some punctual sediment inputs from the seamount have been recognized during sea-level lowstand, but there is no evidence of fluvial supply in the drift deposits. The paleocurrent reconstruction allows the characterizing of the stadial and cold periods by large increases in the mean sortable silt fraction and UP10, which point to an enhanced bottom current strength related to intermediate water masses. Conversely, interglacial periods are characterized by weaker bottom current activity, which is associated with denser deep water masses. These proxies also recorded the intensified Saharan wind transport that occurred during interstadial/stadial transitions. All these results point to the importance of combining sediment source areas with major climatic oscillations and paleocurrent variability in palaeoceanographic sedimentary archives, which may help to develop future climate prediction models.
Built Information Modeling for the 3D Reconstruction of Modern Railway Stations
Authors: Carnevali Laura , Lanfranchi Fabio , Russo Michele
Published: August 2019

The BIM process applied to the built environment represents a much debated topic in the last decade, but it still contains unanswered questions. National and international frameworks introduced standards mainly focused on the levels of detail definition related to new project, leaving a wide interpretation on the 3D reconstruction of existing building. On the other hand, the increase in the use of this modeling approach and the possible expansion of this application in the nearly future lead to predict a significant rise in built field, requiring a general assessment both on global methodology and on its peculiarities. Starting from the complete description and analysis of two modern railway architectures, based on integrated survey, 2D representation up to 3D modeling in BIM environments, the article tries to highlight the limits in the 3D BIM modeling applied on existing construction, suggesting possible solutions in relation with the obtained results. The process is critically evaluated in each passage, in order to focus the BIM research areas useful for built environment analysis.
Evaluating Park Use and Satisfaction: The Case of Trojan Park in St. Louis Missouri
Authors: Parra Diana C. , Van Zandt Alexandria , Wang Peter , Goodman Micah , Abhishek Janardan , Haire-Joshu Debra , Brownson Ross C.
Published: August 2019

Background: Providing public access to exercise and play is vital for health promotion across populations. We evaluated the use of and satisfaction at Trojan Park, a multigenerational playground with multiple activity areas and fitness zones in the city of Wellston in St. Louis County, MO. Methods: We used video footage and the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC), which is a valid and reliable system for collecting data on physical activity in parks. We then performed intercept interviews to gather user information and measure overall satisfaction with the park. Results: The park received a variety of attendees across age groups, with children and middle-aged adults representing 41.1% and 50.3% of total park users, respectively. During the time observed, 47% of attendees were engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), 22% were engaged in light physical activity (walking), and 30% were sedentary. We also observed participants spending the most time on the basketball court (38%), playground (28%), and picnic (17%) areas. Park users traveled a wide range of distances to access the park and the overwhelming majority reported a high level of satisfaction. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that multigenerational playgrounds with access to various activities and fitness zones may provide social and physical health benefits.
Key Factors Identification and Risk Assessment for the Stability of Deep Surrounding Rock in Coal Roadway
Authors: Huang Dongmei , Li Weijun , Chang Xikun , Tan Yunliang
Published: August 2019

In order to evaluate the stability of deep surrounding rock, all of the affecting factors should be theoretically identified. However, some factors have slight impacts on the stability of deep surrounding rock compared with others. To conduct an effective risk assessment, key factors should be first extracted. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and grey relation analysis (GRA) methods are integrated to determine the key factors. First, the AHP method is applied to sort the factors by calculating the weights of them. Seven out of fifteen factors are extracted as the key factors, which account for 80% of the weights. Further, the GCA method is used to validate the effects of these key factors by analyzing the correlation between the performance of each factor and that of the reference. Considering the influence of these key factors and experts’ judgements, the multilevel fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is adopted to obtain the risk level of the deep surrounding rock stability. Finally, the risk assessment of the deep surrounding rock in the E-Zhuang coal mine of Chinese Xinwen Mining Area illustrates the operability of the proposed method.
Partial Smoking Ban and Secondhand Smoke Exposure in Japan
Authors: Zeng Sen , Noguchi Haruko , Shimokawa Satoru
Published: August 2019

Implementing smoking bans is a worldwide common practice for tobacco control. However, if the policy prohibits smoking partially rather than comprehensively, it may increase nonsmokers’ exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) in nonprohibited places. This paper investigates how a partial smoking ban affected nonsmokers’ SHS exposure (measured by frequency of having exposure to SHS in days per month) in households, workplaces, and restaurants by examining the case of a partial smoking ban introduced in a large Japanese prefecture in 2013. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHNS) in 2010, 2013, and 2016 (n = 30,244) and the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (CSLC) from 2001 to 2016 (n = 2,366,896), this paper employs a difference-in-differences (DID) approach. We found that the partial smoking ban significantly increased their SHS exposure in households and workplaces by 2.64 days and 4.70 days per month, respectively, while it did not change nonsmokers’ SHS exposure in restaurants. The results imply that the smoking ban displaced smokers from public places to private places. We also found that neither smokers’ smoking status nor smoking intensity changed significantly after implementing the partial smoking ban. Comprehensive smoking bans are needed to better protect nonsmokers from SHS exposure.
Seasonality of Suicides among Victims Who Are under the Influence of Alcohol
Authors: Lasota Dorota , Pawłowski Witold , Krajewski Paweł , Staniszewska Anna , Goniewicz Krzysztof , Goniewicz Mariusz
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Suicide is one of the most frequent causes of death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), each year, over eight hundred thousand people worldwide die as a result of suicide. The most common risk factors for suicide are depressive disorders and alcohol dependence. Alcohol can directly influence a decision about suicide, or be a factor facilitating this decision. The aim of the study was to analyse the seasonality of suicides among persons under the influence of alcohol. Material and Methods: Data for analysis were obtained from the Department of Forensic Medicine (DFM) of the Medical University of Warsaw. A retrospective analysis was performed on 317 victims of suicides by hanging, those which were entered into the registry of deaths kept by the DFM in the years 2009–2013. The analysis took into account the age and sex of victims, initial cause of death, date of post-mortem examination, autopsy result and alcohol concentration in the blood or muscles of the victims. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 20. Results: In the analysis, a spring peak of suicides was found for men, and an autumn peak was revealed for women. In addition, a significant correlation was observed between the age of victims and the concentration of alcohol; the older the victims, the higher the alcohol concentration. However, this correlation was reported only in the spring months. Conclusions: The results of the analysis seem to be consistent with seasonal patterns observed in other studies, and they indicate the occurrence of suicide seasonality. In order to improve the strategies of suicide prevention, it is necessary to identify factors which are related to the seasonal variation of suicidal behaviours, as well as to gain knowledge about the mechanisms behind this phenomenon.
Comparable Risk of Suicidal Ideation between Workers at Precarious Employment and Unemployment: Data from the Korean Welfare Panel Study, 2012–2017
Authors: Kim Woorim , Ki Myung , Choi Minjae , Song Areum
Published: August 2019

Precarious employment and unemployment are important factors that impact suicidal behavior. This study investigated (1) how employment transitions among permanent employment, precarious employment, and unemployment are associated with suicidal ideation in working employees and compared (2) whether individuals transitioning among these three states were more vulnerable than those remaining. Using nationally representative longitudinal data between 2012–2017, a total of 25,862 adults aged 25 to 59 years old without a record of suicidal ideation were included at baseline. Transitions in employment status (permanent work, precarious work, or unemployment) and suicidal ideation were analyzed using hierarchical logistic regression models. Compared to the “permanent to permanent” group, individuals in the “permanent to precarious” (odds ratio (OR) 1.74, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.29–2.35], “permanent to unemployment” (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.32–2.96), “precarious to precarious” (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.21–2.85), and the “precarious to unemployment” (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.05–1.95) groups had higher odds of suicidal ideation. The magnitude of such odds was generally higher than that of individuals at annual unemployment or precarious states. The results show that adults moving in and out of different employment states have higher odds of suicidal ideation than individuals at annually static precarious or unemployment status.
Phthalate Ester Contamination in Intensively Managed Greenhouse Facilities and the Assessment of Carcinogenic and Non-Carcinogenic Risk: A Regional Study
Authors: Ma Tingting , Zhou Wei , Chen Like , Christie Peter , Luo Yongming , Wu Peng
Published: August 2019

The contamination status and the potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks from six phthalate esters (PAEs), nominated as priority pollutants by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), were investigated in 40 typical greenhouses in three large-scale intensive greenhouse production areas in Jingmen city, Hubei province, central China. The total concentrations of PAEs in 40 soil samples and 80 vegetable samples ranged from 919 ± 134 to 7015 ± 475 µg kg−1 (dry weight, DW), and from 387 ± 63, to 11,683 ± 1313 µg kg−1 (DW), respectively. No carcinogenic risk was detected. The heat-map of the hazard quotient (HQ) values indicates the non-carcinogenic risks to children from di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), at two sampling sites out of the 40, and from diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) (20 to young children and three to older children and adults) at 23 of the sites. The contamination risk from PAEs at Pengdun is of concern because only two of the 14 sampling sites selected there showed the non-carcinogenic risk to humans was unclear. The results of this study help to close a long-term knowledge gap resulting from a shortage of experimental data on PAE contamination in intensive greenhouse vegetable production in central China. The inclusion of DEHP in the Chinese list of priority pollutants is recommended, due to its increasing contamination and risk. This study provides valuable information for protected agricultural soil management and risk avoidance. It is a timely reminder to take PAE contamination and associated health risks into consideration, during the planning and introduction of intensively-managed greenhouse production systems.
Understanding the Spatial-Temporal Patterns and Influential Factors on Air Quality Index: The Case of North China
Authors: Xu Wenxuan , Tian Yongzhong , Liu Yongxue , Zhao Bingxue , Liu Yongchao , Zhang Xueqian
Published: August 2019

North China has become one of the worst air quality regions in China and the world. Based on the daily air quality index (AQI) monitoring data in 96 cities from 2014–2016, the spatiotemporal patterns of AQI in North China were investigated, then the influence of meteorological and socio-economic factors on AQI was discussed by statistical analysis and ESDA-GWR (exploratory spatial data analysis-geographically weighted regression) model. The principal results are as follows: (1) The average annual AQI from 2014–2016 exceeded or were close to the Grade II standard of Chinese Ambient Air Quality (CAAQ), although the area experiencing heavy pollution decreased. Meanwhile, the positive spatial autocorrelation of AQI was enhanced in the sample period. (2) The occurrence of a distinct seasonal cycle in air pollution which exhibit a sinusoidal pattern of fluctuations and can be described as “heavy winter and light summer.” Although the AQI generally decreased in other seasons, the air pollution intensity increased in winter with the rapid expansion of higher AQI value in the southern of Hebei and Shanxi. (3) The correlation analysis of daily meteorological factors and AQI shows that air quality can be significantly improved when daily precipitation exceeds 10 mm. In addition, except for O3, wind speed has a negative correlation with AQI and major pollutants, which was most significant in winter. Meanwhile, pollutants are transmitted dynamically under the influence of the prevailing wind direction, which can result in the relocation of AQI. (4) According to ESDA-GWR analysis, on an annual scale, car ownership and industrial production are positively correlated with air pollution; whereas increase of wind speed, per capita gross domestic product (GDP), and forest coverage are conducive to reducing pollution. Local coefficients show spatial differences in the effects of different factors on the AQI. Empirical results of this study are helpful for the government departments to formulate regionally differentiated governance policies regarding air pollution.
The Development of Tetrazole Derivatives as Protein Arginine Methyltransferase I (PRMT I) Inhibitors
Authors: Sun Yutong , Wang Zhe , Yang Hao , Zhu Xuanli , Wu Han , Ma Lu , Xu Fang , Hong Wei , Wang Hao
Published: August 2019

Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) can catalyze protein arginine methylation by transferring the methyl group from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) to the guanidyl nitrogen atom of protein arginine, which influences a variety of biological processes. The dysregulation of PRMT1 is involved in a diverse range of diseases, including cancer. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel and potent PRMT1 inhibitors. In the current manuscript, a series of 1-substituted 1H-tetrazole derivatives were designed and synthesized by targeting at the substrate arginine-binding site on PRMT1, and five compounds demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against PRMT1. The most potent PRMT1 inhibitor, compound 9a, displayed non-competitive pattern with respect to either SAM or substrate arginine, and showed the strong selectivity to PRMT1 compared to PRMT5, which belongs to the type II PRMT family. It was observed that the compound 9a inhibited the functions of PRMT1 and relative factors within this pathway, and down-regulated the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The binding of compound 9a to PRMT1 was carefully analyzed by using molecular dynamic simulations and binding free energy calculations. These studies demonstrate that 9a was a potent PRMT1 inhibitor, which could be used as lead compound for further drug discovery.
Attention and Signal Detection
Authors: Reeves Adam
Published: August 2019

In this paper, I first review signal detection theory (SDT) approaches to perception, and then discuss why it is thought that SDT theory implies that increasing attention improves performance. Our experiments have shown, however, that this is not necessarily true. Subjects had either focused attention on two of four possible locations in the visual field, or diffused attention to all four locations. The stimuli (offset letters), locations, conditions, and tasks were all known in advance, responses were forced-choice, subjects were properly instructed and motivated, and instructions were always valid—conditions which should optimize signal detection. Relative to diffusing attention, focusing attention indeed benefitted discrimination of forward from backward pointing Es. However, focusing made it harder to identify a randomly chosen one of 20 letters. That focusing can either aid or disrupt performance, even when cues are valid and conditions are idealized, is surprising, but it can also be explained by SDT, as shown here. These results warn the experimental researcher not to confuse focusing attention with enhancing performance, and warn the modeler not to assume that SDT is unequivocal.
Efficacy of Spinosad Granules and Lambda-Cyhalothrin Contrasts with Reduced Performance of Temephos for Control of Aedes spp. in Vehicle Tires in Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Williams Trevor , Farfán Juan L. , Mercado Gabriel , Valle Javier , Abella Antonio , Marina Carlos F.
Published: August 2019

The present study examined the efficacy of λ-cyhalothrin, pyriproxyfen and granular formulations of spinosad and temephos for the control of mosquito larvae present in experimental tires in Veracruz State, Mexico in the period 2015–2016. Both λ-cyhalothrin and spinosad granules provided control of larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti, Ae. albopictus and Culex spp. in used tires in Veracruz State, Mexico, over a 9–12 week period, although numbers of Culex were low. The numbers of Aedes larvae + pupae in pyriproxyfen and temephos-treated tires were slightly less than half of the untreated control tires, probably a result the pupicidal characteristics of pyriproxyfen and possible resistance in the case of temephos. Spinosad was less harmful to predatory Toxorhynchites spp. than λ-cyhalothrin or temephos. The reduced susceptibility to temephos in Aedes populations was confirmed at five other sites in Veracruz. Public health authorities should consider incorporating spinosad as a larvicide in coastal areas at a high risk of dengue, chikungunya and Zika outbreaks in this region.