bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) Based Transcriptome Analysis in Immune Response of Holstein Cattle to Killed Vaccine against Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Type I
Authors: Lopez Bryan Irvine , Santiago Kier Gumangan , Lee Donghui , Ha Seungmin , Seo Kangseok
Published: February 2020

Immune response of 107 vaccinated Holstein cattle was initially obtained prior to the ELISA test. Five cattle with high and low bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) type I antibody were identified as the final experimental animals. Blood samples from these animals were then utilized to determine significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the RNA-seq transcriptome analysis and enrichment analysis. Our analysis identified 261 DEGs in cattle identified as experimental animals. Functional enrichment analysis in gene ontology (GO) annotations and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways revealed the DEGs potentially induced by the inactivated BVDV type I vaccine, and might be responsible for the host immune responses. Our findings suggested that inactivated vaccine induced upregulation of genes involved in different GO annotations, including antigen processing and presentation of peptide antigen (via MHC class I), immune response, and positive regulation of interferon-gamma production. The observed downregulation of other genes involved in immune response might be due to inhibition of toll-like receptors (TLRs) by the upregulation of the Bcl-3 gene. Meanwhile, the result of KEGG pathways revealed that the majority of DEGs were upregulated and enriched to different pathways, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, platelet activation, extracellular matrix (ECM) receptor interaction, hematopoietic cell lineage, and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. These significant pathways supported our initial findings and are known to play a vital role in shaping adaptive immunity against BVDV type 1. In addition, type 1 diabetes mellitus pathways tended to be significantly enriched. Thus, further studies are needed to investigate the prevalence of type 1 diabetes mellitus in cattle vaccinated with inactivated and live BVDV vaccine.
Bladder Cancer Chemosensitivity Is Affected by Paraoxonase-2 Expression
Authors: Fumarola Stefania , Cecati Monia , Sartini Davide , Ferretti Gianna , Milanese Giulio , Galosi Andrea Benedetto , Pozzi Valentina , Campagna Roberto , Morresi Camilla , Emanuelli Monica , Bacchetti Tiziana
Published: February 2020

The goal of the current study was to identify potential roles of paraoxonase-2 in bladder carcinogenesis. T24 bladder cancer cells were transfected with plasmids inducing paraoxonase-2 silencing or overexpression. Upon the selection of clones stably down- or upregulating paraoxonase-2, cell proliferation, migration, and the production of reactive oxygen species were evaluated, before and after treatment with cisplatin and gemcitabine, used alone or in combination. The activity levels of both caspase-3 and caspase-8 were also analyzed. shRNA-mediated gene silencing and the overexpression of paraoxonase-2 revealed that the enzyme was able to promote both the proliferation and migration of T24 cells. Moreover, the knockdown of paraoxonase-2 was significantly associated with a reduced cell viability of T24 cells treated with chemotherapeutic drugs and led to both an increase of reactive oxygen species production and caspase-3 and caspase-8 activation. Conversely, under treatment with anti-neoplastic compounds, a higher proliferative capacity was found in T24 cells overexpressing paraoxonase-2 compared with controls. In addition, upon enzyme upregulation, both the production of reactive oxygen species and activation of caspase-3 and caspase-8 were reduced. Although further analyses will be required to fully understand the involvement of paraoxonase-2 in bladder tumorigenesis and in mechanisms leading to the development of chemoresistance, the data reported in this study seem to demonstrate that the enzyme could exert a great impact on tumor progression and susceptibility to chemotherapy, thus suggesting paraoxonase-2 as a novel and interesting molecular target for effective bladder cancer treatment.
Antioxidants as a Potential Target against Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Alvarez-Arellano Lourdes , González-García Nadia , Salazar-García Marcela , Corona Juan Carlos
Published: February 2020

Psychostimulants and non-psychostimulants are the medications prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, several adverse results have been linked with an increased risk of substance use and side effects. The pathophysiology of ADHD is not completely known, although it has been associated with an increase in inflammation and oxidative stress. This review presents an overview of findings following antioxidant treatment for ADHD and describes the potential amelioration of inflammation and oxidative stress using antioxidants that might have a future as multi-target adjuvant therapy in ADHD. The use of antioxidants against inflammation and oxidative conditions is an emerging field in the management of several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Thus, antioxidants could be promising as an adjuvant ADHD therapy.
CBR Predictive Models for Granular Bases Using Physical and Structural Properties
Authors: Montes-Arvizu Mildred Estivaly , Chavez-Alegria Omar , Rojas-Gonzalez Eduardo , Gaxiola-Camacho Jose Ramon , Millan-Almaraz Jesus Roberto
Published: February 2020

The California bearing ratio (CBR) test evaluates the structure of the layers of pavements. Such a test is laborious, time-consuming, and its results are generally affected by sample disturbance and tests conditions. The main objective of this research was to build a numerical model for the prediction of CBR tests that might substitute laboratory tests. The model was based on structural and physical parameters of granular bases. Four different materials from the central region (Querétaro) and north (Mexicali) of Mexico were used for the experimental work. Using the above-mentioned materials, 36 samples were fabricated, and six of them were used for the evaluation of the model presented in this research. Numerical and experimental comparisons demonstrated the adequacy of the model to predict the result of CBR tests from soil parameters.
Multiple-Collision Free-Electron Laser Compton Backscattering for a High-Yield Gamma-Ray Source
Authors: Sei Norihiro , Ogawa Hiroshi , Jia QiKa
Published: February 2020

We observed multiple-collision free-electron laser (FEL)-Compton backscattering in which a multi-bunch electron beam makes head-on collisions with multi-pulse FELs in an optical cavity, using an infrared FEL system in the storage ring NIJI-IV. It was demonstrated that the measured spectrum of the multiple-collision FEL-Compton backscattering gamma rays was the summation of the spectra of the gamma rays generated at each collision point. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the spatial distribution of the multiple-collision FEL-Compton backscattering gamma rays was the summation of those of the gamma rays generated at each collision point. Our experimental results proved quantitatively that the multiple collisions in the FEL-Compton backscattering process are effective in increasing the yield of the gamma rays. By applying the multiple-collision FEL-Compton backscattering to high-repetition FEL devices such as energy recovery linac FELs, an unprecedented high-yield gamma-ray source with quasi-monochromaticity and wavelength tunability will be realized.
Exocentric Distance Judgment and Accuracy of Head-Mounted and Stereoscopic Widescreen Displays in Frontal Planes
Authors: Joe Lin Chiuhsiang , Abreham Betsha Tizazu , Caesaron Dino , Woldegiorgis Bereket Haile
Published: February 2020

An experiment was done to explore the effects of two virtual display systems on the accuracy of exocentric distance judgment and position. Sixteen participants viewed animated virtual targets using either a head-mounted display (HMD) or a stereoscopic widescreen display (SWD). The virtual targets have been shown, one at a time, at three depth levels and with two corresponding exocentric distances and three target sizes at each target distance and, afterward, via pointing by holding a stick to estimate the exocentric distance and position of each target. The position data were collected using an OptiTrack motion capture system. The results showed that the accuracy of exocentric distance judgment was higher with the head-mounted displays than with the stereoscopic widescreen displays. In addition, higher position accuracy in the X-direction was obtained from the stereoscopic widescreen displays, whereas no significant difference was observed in position accuracy in the Y-direction. However, it is possible that the HMD could give better accuracy in both exocentric distance and position judgments in the frontal plane, if the HMD had been perfectly mounted and flawlessly fit the participant’s eyes. The result also revealed that exocentric distance judgment was significantly higher at the farthest target distances than at the nearest distance. Similarly, the position accuracy significantly increased as exocentric distance decreased. Moreover, engineers may allude to the findings as the evidence from the study suggests that the intermediate target distances might be fitting or ideal distances to design and structure 3D applications.
Smart Transformers as Active Interfaces Enabling the Provision of Power-Frequency Regulation Services from Distributed Resources in Hybrid AC/DC Grids
Authors: Rodrigues Justino , Moreira Carlos , Lopes João Peças
Published: February 2020

Smart Transformers (STs) are being envisioned as a key element for the controllability of distribution networks in a future context of Renewable Energy Source (RES), Energy Storage System (ESS) and Electric Vehicle (EV) massification. Additionally, STs enable the deployment of hybrid AC/DC networks, which offer important advantages in this context. In addition to offering further degrees of controllability, hybrid AC/DC networks are more suited to integrate DC resources such as DC loads, PV generation, ESS and EV chargers. The purpose of the work developed in this paper is to address the feasibility of exploiting STs to actively coordinate a fleet of resources existing in a hybrid AC/DC network supplied by the ST aiming to provide active power-frequency regulation services to the upstream AC grid. The feasibility of the ST to coordinate the resources available in the hybrid distribution AC/DC network in order to provide active power-frequency regulation services is demonstrated in this paper through computational simulation. It is demonstrated that the aforementioned goal can be achieved using droop-based controllers that can modulate controlled variables in the ST.
Computational Investigation of Liquid Holdup and Wetting Efficiency Inside Trickle Bed Reactors with Different Catalyst Particle Shapes
Authors: Deng Hao , Guo Baoqi , Dong He , Liu Cheng , Geng Zhongfeng
Published: February 2020

Liquid holdup and wetting efficiency are essential parameters for design of trickle bed reactors. Both parameters play an important role in reactor performance including pressure drop, conversion, and heat transfer. Empirical formulas are usually employed to calculate liquid holdup and wetting efficiency. However, factors such as particle shape and the wetting ability of liquid on the particle surface are not described clearly in traditional formulas. In this paper, actual random packing was built by DEM and CFD simulations were performed to investigate the factors affecting liquid holdup and wetting efficiency in trickle bed reactors, including particle shape, surface tension, contact angle, liquid viscosity, liquid density, liquid, and gas superficial velocity. Detailed fluid flow and liquid-solid interaction were described by VOF model. Four different particle shapes were investigated. It showed the particle shape has great effect and the 4-hole cylinder packing gained both highest liquid holdup and wetting efficiency. The overall simulations gave a detailed description of phase interactions and fluid flow in the voids between catalyst particles and these results could give further guidance for the design and operation of trickle bed reactors.
Investigation on Recycled Sawdust in Controlling Sulphate Attack in Cemented Clay
Authors: Chegenizadeh Amin , Keramatikerman Mahdi , Miceli Stefano , Nikraz Hamid , Salih Sabbar Ayad
Published: February 2020

Application of sawdust in civil engineering projects, specifically those with geotechnical applications, has been the interest of many studies. This study focuses on exposure of soil samples treated with sawdust to MgSO4. This study was conducted in three stages. The first stage was compaction. In this stage, the compaction characteristics of each mixture were derived. The second stage was to run unconfined compressive strength (UCS) testing and report the UCS peaks relevant to each mixture. The third stage was microstructural examination (i.e., SEM) conducted on the chosen samples before and after sulphate exposure to highlight the reactions during exposure. The results of first stage (i.e., compaction tests) suggested that increasing sawdust content, the OMC (Optimum moisture content) decreased and MDD (Maximum dry density) decreased. In the second stage, the UCS (Unconfined compressive strength) testing was conducted on 640 samples [including reliability tests] and the outcome suggested that sawdust increased the resistance of samples against sulphate attack. In stage three, the micro analysis backed the main body results, suggesting that sawdust had a positive effect on helping to form a better connection between the particles and therefore more resistance noted.
Research on Ride Comfort and Driving Safety under Hybrid Damping Extension Control for Suspension Systems
Authors: Geng Guoqing , Yu Yi , Sun Liqin , Li Hao
Published: February 2020

This paper is concerned with the conflicting performances of ride comfort and driving safety for semi-active suspension systems. To alleviate this conflict, a novel hybrid damping extension control (HDEC) method is proposed. This method adopts various control methods and the weights of each method are determined by extension theory. Firstly, body acceleration and tire dynamic transformation are selected to evaluate ride comfort and driving safety performance for the semi-active suspension system and their frequency responses of passive suspension, sky-hook control, ground hook control, and S-GH (sky-ground hook) control are analyzed based on a two degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) model. Secondly, extension theory is introduced and the extension control system, which contains three modes and corresponding control algorithms, is established. In addition, the low-frequency excitation and high-frequency excitation simulations are designed to determine the parameters of the extension control system. Finally, ve-DYNA vehicle suspension model simulation is applied to prove the feasibility and effectiveness of the extension control. The simulation results show that, based on the suspension state, extension control can improve the performance of ride comfort and driving safety.
Sudden Variation Effect of Aerodynamic Loads and Safety Analysis of Running Trains When Entering Tunnel Under Crosswind
Authors: Yang Weichao , Deng E , Zhu Zhihui , Lei Mingfeng , Shi Chenghua , He Hong
Published: February 2020

Sudden variation of aerodynamic loads is a potential source of safety accidents of high-speed trains (HSTs). As a follow-up investigation on the aerodynamic response of a HST that enters a tunnel under crosswind environment, this paper focuses on the transient response of a HST’s safety indices based on the train–track coupling interaction model. Firstly, a wind–train–track coupling dynamic model is proposed by introducing transient aerodynamic loads into the vehicle–track system. Secondly, the temporal evolution of safety coefficients indicates that the train’s safety risk increases during tunnel entry with crosswind. Results show that the derailment coefficients and wheel load reduction rate during tunnel entry are not only larger than those in open air, but also those inside the tunnel are due to the sudden disappearance of wind excitation at the tunnel entrance. In addition, the characteristic wind curve, which is the wind velocity against the train speed, is presented for application based on the current specification of the safety criteria threshold. The investigation will be useful in assessing the safety risk of a running train subjected to other aerodynamic attacks, such as the coupling effect of an infrastructure scenario and crosswind in a windy area.
Correlation between LAA Morphological Features and Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis for Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: Fanni Benigno Marco , Capellini Katia , Di Leonardo Mario , Clemente Alberto , Cerone Elisa , Berti Sergio , Celi Simona
Published: February 2020

The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a complex cardiovascular structure which can yield to thrombi formation in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). The study of LAA fluid dynamics together with morphological features should be investigated in order to evaluate the possible connection of geometrical and hemodynamics indices with the stroke risk. To reach this goal, we conducted a morphological analysis of four different LAA shapes considering their variation during the cardiac cycle and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in AF conditions were carried out. The analysis of main geometrical LAA parameters showed a huger ostium and a reduced motility for the cauliflower and cactus shapes, as well as a lower velocity values from the CFD analysis. Such findings are in line with literature and highlight the importance of coupling dynamics imaging data with CFD calculations for providing information not available at clinical level.
Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Networks Based Data Augmentation for Radar Data Analysis
Authors: Lee Hansoo , Kim Jonggeun , Kim Eun Kyeong , Kim Sungshin
Published: February 2020

Ground-based weather radar can observe a wide range with a high spatial and temporal resolution. They are beneficial to meteorological research and services by providing valuable information. Recent weather radar data related research has focused on applying machine learning and deep learning to solve complicated problems. It is a well-known fact that an adequate amount of data is a positively necessary condition in machine learning and deep learning. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have received extensive attention for their remarkable data generation capacity, with a fascinating competitive structure having been proposed since. Consequently, a massive number of variants have been proposed; which model is adequate to solve the given problem is an inevitable concern. In this paper, we propose exploring the problem of radar image synthesis and evaluating different GANs with authentic radar observation results. The experimental results showed that the improved Wasserstein GAN is more capable of generating similar radar images while achieving higher structural similarity results.
Magnetic and Hydrophobic Composite Polyurethane Sponge for Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Jiang Peng , Li Kun , Chen Xiquan , Dan Ruiqi , Yu Yang
Published: February 2020

Crude oil spills from offshore oil fields will cause serious pollution to the marine ecological environment. Many 3D porous materials have been used for oil–water separation, but they cannot be widely used due to complex preparation processes and expensive preparation costs. Here, a facile and cheap approach to disperse expanded graphite (EG), stearic acid, and Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles on the skeleton surface of polyurethane (PU) sponge to prepare the magnetic and hydrophobic composite polyurethane sponge for oil–water separation. The results show that the composite PU sponge had a strong oil absorption capacity for various oils, the oil adsorption capacities has reached 32–40 g/g, and it has become more hydrophobic. The addition of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles endowed the sponge with magnetic responsivity, and the composite PU sponge still had a strong oil adsorption capacity after several adsorbing-squeezing cycles. The magnetic and hydrophobic composite polyurethane sponge is a very promising material for practical oil adsorption and oil–water separation.
Non-Intrusive Load Disaggregation by Convolutional Neural Network and Multilabel Classification
Authors: Massidda Luca , Marrocu Marino , Manca Simone
Published: February 2020

Non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) is the main method used to monitor the energy footprint of a residential building and disaggregate total electrical usage into appliance-related signals. The most common disaggregation algorithms are based on the Hidden Markov Model, while solutions based on deep neural networks have recently caught the attention of researchers. In this work we address the problem through the recognition of the state of activation of the appliances using a fully convolutional deep neural network, borrowing some techniques used in the semantic segmentation of images and multilabel classification. This approach has allowed obtaining high performances not only in the recognition of the activation state of the domestic appliances but also in the estimation of their consumptions, improving the state of the art for a reference dataset.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Closure Joints in Accelerated Bridge Construction using a Damage Etiology Approach
Authors: Farhangdoust Saman , Mehrabi Armin
Published: February 2020

In accelerated bridge construction (ABC), prefabricated bridge deck elements are merged using “closure joints.” Because of the cast-in-place nature of closure joints that are expected to go into service rapidly and problems observed for some types of closure joints, there have been some concerns about their long-term durability. This has necessitated the need for monitoring the condition of ABC closure joints using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. Closure joints contain unique features and details that sets them apart from conventional deck panels. This requires a special treatment of closure joints when it comes to selecting the appropriate NDT technique for their health monitoring. A clear guideline for selecting an applicable NDT method for various types of closure joints has not been developed yet. For this purpose, an investigation was carried out in the Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (ABC-UTC) at Florida International University. This paper summarizes the result of this investigation. It includes reviews of all relevant NDT methods for applicability to ABC closure joints and efforts for categorizing closure joints according to joint features that affect the use of NDT. Since the applicability of NDT methods heavily depend on the type of expected anomaly to be detected and its root causes, all potential defects and types of damage were identified and investigated using a damage sequence tree (DST). Consequently, damage etiology for ABC closure joints were established using fault tree analysis (FTA). Finally, a quantitative statistical survey was used to substantiate the selection of the NDT methods that were most applicable to the health monitoring of ABC bridges containing closure joints. The results presented in this paper can be used by bridge owners and consultants as an effective and practical guide for the selection of NDT methods for monitoring the health of ABC closure joints.
Simulation and Experimental Analysis on the Load Characteristics of a Temperature-Control Curtain in a Thermally-Stratified Reservoir
Authors: Lian Jijian , Liu Chunxi , Wang Haijun , Liu Fang , Lu Wenhe , Zhao Yue
Published: February 2020

Low-temperature discharged water from thermally-stratified reservoirs in spring and summer will have a negative environmental impact on fish breeding and agricultural irrigation downstream. The temperature-control curtain (TCC) is a selective withdrawal structure that can effectively change the discharged water temperature. Compared with a traditional selective withdrawal project, a TCC project has the advantages of low cost and simple construction and can even be added to operating reservoirs without impacting power generation. Analysis of the load characteristics is the key to the application of TCC engineering. This paper establishes a three-dimensional numerical model simulation and verifies it with physical model experimental results. The crucial parameters affecting the load characteristics of TCC are investigated, including the water blocking rate, area ratio, inclination ratio, inflow velocity, and water temperature stratification ratio. The results show that: (1) This numerical simulation approach can be used to predict the drag coefficient and the load of a TCC; (2) the water blocking rate has the greatest influence on the drag coefficient, and it is the most critical indicator of the TCC load; and (3) the drag coefficient exponentially increases with an increasing water blocking rate, quadratically increases with an increasing area ratio, linearly increases with an increasing inclination ratio, and linearly increases with an increasing water temperature stratification ratio.
Inheritance Coding with Gagné-Based Learning Hierarchy Approach to Developing Mathematics Skills Assessment Systems
Authors: Tang Wei-Ling , Tsai Jinn-Tsong , Huang Ching-Ying
Published: February 2020

This study developed an inheritance coding with Gagné-based learning hierarchy approach to building systems for assessing mathematics skills and diagnosing student learning problems. The proposed Gagné-based learning hierarchy approach combines Gagné learning hierarchy theory with an inheritance coding approach. First, Gagné learning hierarchy theory is used to generate test questions and learning path diagrams for a skills assessment system. To assess learning achievement, an inheritance coding approach is used to encode the test questions according to learning hierarchy paths. The analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation design model is used throughout the process of developing the assessment system. Statistical analyses of the test questions for assessing student learning achievement included expert validity, internal reliability, test–retest reliability, and parallel-form reliability. System performance questionnaires were also designed to survey the opinions of the students regarding the mathematics skills assessment system. The internal reliability of the overall questionnaire was also calculated. The experimental practical application of the assessment system, developed by the Gagné-based learning hierarchy approach, showed that it can accurately diagnose student learning barriers and provide learning suggestions for students and teachers.
Dynamic-DSO: Direct Sparse Odometry Using Objects Semantic Information for Dynamic Environments
Authors: Sheng Chao , Pan Shuguo , Gao Wang , Tan Yong , Zhao Tao
Published: February 2020

Traditional Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) (with loop closure detection), or Visual Odometry (VO) (without loop closure detection), are based on the static environment assumption. When working in dynamic environments, they perform poorly whether using direct methods or indirect methods (feature points methods). In this paper, Dynamic-DSO which is a semantic monocular direct visual odometry based on DSO (Direct Sparse Odometry) is proposed. The proposed system is completely implemented with the direct method, which is different from the most current dynamic systems combining the indirect method with deep learning. Firstly, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are applied to the original RGB image to generate the pixel-wise semantic information of dynamic objects. Then, based on the semantic information of the dynamic objects, dynamic candidate points are filtered out in keyframes candidate points extraction; only static candidate points are reserved in the tracking and optimization module, to achieve accurate camera pose estimation in dynamic environments. The photometric error calculated by the projection points in dynamic region of subsequent frames are removed from the whole photometric error in pyramid motion tracking model. Finally, the sliding window optimization which neglects the photometric error calculated in the dynamic region of each keyframe is applied to obtain the precise camera pose. Experiments on the public TUM dynamic dataset and the modified Euroc dataset show that the positioning accuracy and robustness of the proposed Dynamic-DSO is significantly higher than the state-of-the-art direct method in dynamic environments, and the semi-dense cloud map constructed by Dynamic-DSO is clearer and more detailed.
Probiotics, Non-Dairy Prebiotics and Postbiotics in Nutrition
Authors: Tomasik Przemysław , Tomasik Piotr
Published: February 2020

The review covers achievements and developments in the field of probiosis and prebiosis originating from sources other than dairy sources, mainly from plant material like cereals. The actual definitions of probiotic microorganisms, prebiotic, and postbiotic compounds and functional food are discussed. The presentation takes into account the relations between selected food components and their effect on probiotic bacteria, as well as effects on some health issues in humans. The review also focuses on the preservation of cereals using probiotic bacteria, adverse effects of probiotics and prebiotics, and novel possibilities for using probiotic bacteria in the food industry.
Modification of Interfacial Interactions in Ceramic-Polymer Nanocomposites by Grafting: Morphology and Properties for Powder Injection Molding and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Cano Santiago , Gooneie Ali , Kukla Christian , Rieß Gisbert , Holzer Clemens , Gonzalez-Gutierrez Joamin
Published: February 2020

The adhesion of the polymer to ceramic nanoparticles is a key aspect in the manufacturing of ceramic parts by additive manufacturing and injection molding, due to poor separation results in separation during processing. The purpose of this research is to investigate, by means of molecular dynamics simulations and experimental methods, the role of improved interfacial interactions by acrylic acid grafting-high density polyethylene on the adhesion to zirconia nanoparticles and on the composite properties. The polymer grafting results in high adhesion to the nanoparticles, increases the nanoparticles dispersion and improves the viscoelastic and mechanical properties required for additive manufacturing and injection molding.
Design Model of Flow Lines to Include Switch-Off Policies Reducing Energy Consumption
Authors: Renna Paolo , Materi Sergio
Published: February 2020

One of the most promising approaches to reduce the amount of energy consumed in manufacturing systems is the switch off policy. This policy reduces the energy consumed when the machines are in the idle state. The main weakness of this policy is the reduction in the production rate of the manufacturing systems. The works proposed in the literature do not consider the design of the production lines for the introduction of switch off policies. This work proposes a design model for production lines that include a targeted imbalance among the workstations to cause designed idle time. The switch-off policy introduced in such designed production lines allows for a reduction in the energy consumed with any production rate loss. Simulation tests are conducted to verify the benefits of switch off policies in production lines designed for its. The simulation results show that the proposed line design allows for a reduction in energy consumption, with a defined loss in the throughput. The application of switch-off policies in the proposed flow line leads to a significant reduction in the energy used in unproductive states controlling the production loss.
Classification of Photoplethysmographic Signal Quality with Fuzzy Neural Network for Improvement of Stroke Volume Measurement
Authors: Liu Shing-Hong , Wang Jia-Jung , Chen Wenxi , Pan Kuo-Li , Su Chun-Hung
Published: February 2020

Photoplethysmography (PPG) has been extensively employed to acquire some physiological parameters such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure. However, PPG signals are frequently corrupted by motion artifacts and baseline wandering, especially for the reflective PPG sensor. Several different algorithms have been studied for determining the signal quality of PPG by the characteristic parameters of its waveform and the rule-based methods. The levels of signal quality usually were defined by the manual operations. Thus, whether the good PPG waveforms are enough to increase the accuracy of the measurement is still a subjective issue. The aim of this study is to use a fuzzy neural network to determine the signal quality indexes (SQI) of PPG pulses measured by the impedance cardiography. To test the algorithm performance, the beat-to-beat stroke volumes (SV) were measured with our device and the medis® CS 2000, synchronously. A total of 1466 pulses from 10 subjects were used to validate our algorithm in which the SQIs of 1007 pulses were high, those of 71 pulses were in the middle, and those of 388 pulses were low. The total error of SV measurement was −18 ± 22.0 mL. The performances of the classification were that the sensitivity and specificity for the 1007 pulses with the high SQIs were 0.81 and 0.90, and the error of SV measurement was 6.4 ± 12.8 mL. The sensitivity and specificity for the 388 pulses with the low SQIs were 0.84 and 0.93, while the error of SV measurement was 30.4 ± 3.6 mL. The results show that the proposed algorithm could be helpful in choosing good-quality PPG pulses to increase the accuracy of SV measurement in the impedance plethysmography.
Observing Pictures and Videos of Creative Products: An Eye Tracking Study
Authors: Berni Aurora , Maccioni Lorenzo , Borgianni Yuri
Published: February 2020

The paper offers insights into people’s exploration of creative products shown on a computer screen within the overall task of capturing artifacts’ original features and functions. In particular, the study presented here analyzes the effects of different forms of representations, i.e., static pictures and videos. While the relevance of changing stimuli’s forms of representation is acknowledged in both engineering design and human-computer interaction, scarce attention has been paid to this issue hitherto when creative products are in play. Six creative products have been presented to twenty-eight subjects through either pictures or videos in an Eye-Tracking-supported experiment. The results show that major attention is paid by people to original product features and functional elements when products are displayed by means of videos. This aspect is of paramount importance, as original shapes, parts, or characteristics of creative products might be inconsistent with people’s habits and cast doubts about their rationale and utility. In this sense, videos seemingly emphasize said original elements and likely lead to their explanation/resolution. Overall, the outcomes of the study strengthen the need to match appropriate forms of representation with different design stages in light of the needs for designs’ evaluation and testing user experience.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Vacuum Resin Infusion for Thin-Walled Composite Parts
Authors: Shevtsov Sergey , Zhilyaev Igor , Chang Shun-Hsyung , Wu Jiing-Kae , Huang Jyun-Ping , Snezhina Natalia
Published: February 2020

This paper considers a new approach to the modeling of the vacuum infusion process at the manufacturing of three-dimensional composite parts of complex shape. The developed approach and numerical methods focus on reliable prediction with needed accuracy and elimination of the unrecoverable defect of composite structure such as the dry spots. The paper presents some experimental results, which demonstrate two cases of dry spot formation in large aircraft composite panels, and analyzes the reasons for these defects arising. Our numerical technique is based on the vacuum infusion of the liquid resin into porous preform as the two-phase flow, which is described by the phase field equation coupled with the Richards equation describing the fluid motion in unsaturated soils with spatially varied pressure dependent porosity and saturation. This problem statement allowed correctly reconstructing the resin front motion and formation of inner and outer dry spots depending on its movement. For the rapid detection of preform zones that are suspicious for defect formation, two indicators calculated during process simulation are proposed and tested at the numerical experiments. The auxiliary program tool has been developed in the MATLAB environment to correctly detect the times of formation, localization and dimensions of the arising dry spots by using the results of the finite element model simulation.
Evaluating Slope Deformation of Earth Dams Due to Earthquake Shaking Using MARS and GMDH Techniques
Authors: Cai Mingxiang , Koopialipoor Mohammadreza , Armaghani Danial Jahed , Thai Pham Binh
Published: February 2020

Assessing the behavior of earth dams under dynamic loads is one of the most significant problems with the design of such large structures. The purpose of this study is to provide new models for predicting dam dispersion in real earthquake conditions. In the first phase, 103 real cases of deformation in earth dams were collected and analyzed due to earthquakes that occurred over recent years. Using nonlinear and machine learning techniques, i.e., group method of data handling (GMDH) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), two models for prediction of the slope deformation in earth dams under the various types of earthquakes were applied and developed. The main parameters used in these simulation techniques were earthquake magnitude (Mw), fundamental period ratio (Td/Tp), yield acceleration ratio (ay/amax) as inputs and value of slope deformation (Dave) as output. Finally, in order to check the accuracy of the results of the new models, a comparison was made with the previous relations and models in seismic conditions for the slope deformation in earth dams. The results showed that the MARS model, which is able to provide a mathematical equation, has a better result than the GMDH model. These new models are recommended to be used for future analyses based on their flexible capabilities.
A Path-Based Selection Solution Approach for the Low Carbon Vehicle Routing Problem with a Time-Window Constraint
Authors: Ge Xianlong , Ge Xiaobo , Wang Weixin
Published: February 2020

Due to the gradual improvement of urban traffic network construction and the increasing number of optional paths between any two points, how to optimize a vehicle travel path in a multi-path road network and then improve the efficiency of urban distribution has become a difficult problem for logistics companies. For this purpose, a mixed-integer mathematical programming model with a time window based on multiple paths for urban distribution in a multi-path environment is established and its exact solution solved using software CPLEX. Additionally, in order to test the application and feasibility of the model, simulation experiments were performed on the four parameters of time, distance, cost, and fuel consumption. Furthermore, using Jingdong (JD), the main urban area in Chongqing, as an example, the experimental results reveal that an algorithm that considers the path selection can significantly improve the efficiency of urban distribution in metropolitan areas with complex road structures.
Women Architects outside the Spanish Borders: Patriarchal Models at International Congresses (1939–1975)
Authors: Hervás Josenia , Blanco-Agüeira Silvia
Published: February 2020

In the complex political scene surrounding the death of Francisco Franco, Spanish female architects were crossing borders to try and understand what was happening abroad. This article provides unpublished data on the various experiences of female graduates in Spain when they shared their enthusiasm, concerns and energy with colleagues from other countries at international conferences that took place before the arrival of democracy. For almost four decades, between 1939 and 1975, Spanish female architects were limited by the patriarchal system’s own barriers and by the political barriers imposed by Franco’s regime. This paper aims to organise and articulate women’s memories, proving the implicit acceptance of patriarchal ideas and models at the start of the 20th century, the timidity of the congress resolutions in the sixties and the later awakening provided by UIFA (Union Internationale des Femmes Architectes) congresses. Finally, it is worth examining the metamorphosis that occurred in free western societies in the 20th century, with respect to the role played by women as a user and as a professional, through the attentive gaze of women architects from a nondemocratic country.
The Global Distribution of Cirrus Clouds Reflectance Based on MODIS Level-3 Data
Authors: Zhao Fengmei , Tang Chaoli , Dai Congming , Wu Xin , Wei Heli
Published: February 2020

Cirrus clouds are crucially important to weather, climate and earth energy balance studies. The distribution of cirrus reflectance with latitude and season is an interesting topic in atmospheric sciences. The monthly mean Level-3 MODIS cirrus reflectance is used to analyze the global distribution of cirrus clouds, which covers a period from 1 March 2000 to 28 February 2018. The latitude, from 90° S to 90° N, is divided into 36 latitude zones with 5° interval. Data in each latitude zone are analyzed. The research results show that the slopes of cirrus reflectance variation in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere are −1.253 × 10−4/year and –1.297 × 10−4/year, respectively. The yearly-average cirrus reflectance reveals strong negative correlation with time in the Northern Hemisphere, i.e., the correlation coefficient is −0.761. Then the statistical analysis of cirrus reflectance is performed in different seasons, the results show that cirrus reflectance varies obviously with seasonal change. Additionally, for the [30°, 90°] latitude regions, cirrus reflectance reaches the minimum in summer and the maximum in winter in the Southern and Northern Hemisphere.
The Physiological Effects of Amino Acids Arginine and Citrulline: Is There a Basis for Development of a Beverage to Promote Endurance Performance? A Narrative Review of Orally Administered Supplements
Authors: Speer Hollie , D’Cunha Nathan M. , Davies Michael J. , McKune Andrew J. , Naumovski Nenad
Published: February 2020

Nutritional and ergogenic aid supplementation is prevalent within athletic or general fitness populations, and is only continuing to gain momentum. Taken in isolation or as a combination, amino acid (AA) supplementation has the potential to increase endurance performance among other benefits. L-Arginine (L-Arg) and L-Citrulline (L-Cit) are two AAs proposed to increase endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, with potential additional physiological benefits, and therefore may contribute to enhanced performance outcomes such as increased power output, or time to exhaustion. However, the appropriate dose for promoting physiological and performance benefits of these AAs, and their potential synergistic effects remains to be determined. Therefore, the aim of this review was to evaluate the varied concentrations used in the current literature, assess the effects of L-Arg and L-Cit in combination on physiological responses and endurance performance, and consider if there is a fundamental basis for providing these supplements in the form of a beverage. A total of six studies were considered eligible for the review which utilized a range of 3–8 g of the AA constituents. The findings support the notion that supplementing with a combination of L-Arg and L-Cit may increase NO production, enhance vasodilation, and therefore increase performance capacity in athletes. A beverage as a carrier for the two AAs is worth considering; however, there remains limited research assessing these outcomes across a consistent range of concentrations in order to see their full potential.
MMP24 as a Target of YAP Is a Potential Prognostic Factor in Cancer Patients
Authors: Sugimoto Wataru , Itoh Katsuhiko , Hirata Hiroaki , Abe Yoshinori , Torii Takeru , Mitsui Yasumasa , Budirahardja Yemima , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Kawauchi Keiko
Published: February 2020

The extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding cancer cells becomes stiffer during tumor progression, which influences cancer cell behaviors such as invasion and proliferation through modulation of gene expression as well as remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. In this study, we show that MMP24 encoding matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-24 is a novel target gene of Yes-associated protein (YAP), a transcription coactivator known as a mechanotransducer. We first examined the effect of substrate stiffness on MMP24 expression in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells and showed that the expression of MMP24 was significantly higher in cells grown on stiff substrates than that on soft substrates. The MMP24 expression was significantly reduced by knockdown of YAP. In contrast, the expression of constitutively active YAP increased MMP24 promoter activity. In addition, binding of YAP to the MMP24 promoter was confirmed by the chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay. These results show that ECM stiffening promotes YAP activation, thereby inducing MMP24 expression. Based on the Human Protein Atlas database, breast cancer patients with lower MMP24 expression exhibit the worse survival rates overall. Thus, MMP24 may negatively regulate the aggressiveness of cancer cells under the stiff ECM environment during tumor progression.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Biology in 2019
Authors:   Biology Editorial Office
Published: February 2020

The editorial team greatly appreciates the reviewers who have dedicated their considerable time and expertise to the journal’s rigorous editorial process over the past 12 months, regardless of whether the papers are finally published or not [...]
Methanol Extract of Dicranopteris linearis Leaves Attenuate Pain via the Modulation of Opioid/NO-Mediated Pathway
Authors: Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin , Roosli Rushduddin Al Jufri , Marmaya Najihah Hanisah , Omar Maizatul Hasyima , Basir Rusliza , Somchit Muhammad Nazrul
Published: February 2020

Dicranopteris linearis leaf has been reported to exert antinociceptive activity. The present study elucidates the possible mechanisms of antinociception modulated by the methanol extract of D. linearis leaves (MEDL) using various mouse models. The extract (25, 150, and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally to mice for 30 min priot to subjection to the acetic acid-induced writhing-, hot plate- or formalin-test to establish the antinociceptive profile of MEDL. The most effective dose was then used in the elucidation of possible mechanisms of action stage. The extract was also subjected to the phytochemical analyses. The results confirmed that MEDL exerted significant (p < 0.05) antinociceptive activity in those pain models as well as the capsaicin-, glutamate-, bradykinin- and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced paw licking model. Pretreatment with naloxone (a non-selective opioid antagonist) significantly (p < 0.05) reversed MEDL effect on thermal nociception. Only l-arginine (a nitric oxide (NO) donor) but not N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; a NO inhibitor) or 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a specific soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor) significantly (p < 0.05) modified MEDL effect on the writhing test. Several polyphenolics and volatile antinociceptive compounds were detected in MEDL. In conclusion, MEDL exerted the opioid/NO-mediated antinociceptive activity, thus, justify D. linearis as a potential source for new analgesic agents development.