bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hot Summers: Effect of Extreme Temperatures on Ozone in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Utembe Steven R. , Rayner Peter J. , Silver Jeremy D. , Guérette Elise-Andree , Fisher Jenny A. , Emmerson Kathryn M. , Cope Martin , Paton-Walsh Clare , Griffiths Alan D. , Duc Hiep , Monk Khalia , Scorgie Yvonne
Published: November 2018

Poor air quality is often associated with hot weather, but the quantitative attribution of high temperatures on air quality remains unclear. In this study, the effect of elevated temperatures on air quality is investigated in Greater Sydney using January 2013, a period of extreme heat during which temperatures at times exceeded 40 °C, as a case study. Using observations from 17 measurement sites and the Weather Research and Forecasting Chemistry (WRF-Chem) model, we analyse the effect of elevated temperatures on ozone in Sydney by running a number of sensitivity studies in which: (1) the model is run with biogenic emissions generated by MEGAN and separately run with monthly average Model of Emissions of Gases and Aerosols from Nature ( MEGAN) biogenic emissions (for January 2013); (2) the model results from the standard run are compared with those in which average temperatures (for January 2013) are only applied to the chemistry; (3) the model is run using both averaged biogenic emissions and temperatures; and (4 and 5) the model is run with half and zero biogenic emissions. The results show that the impact on simulated ozone through the effect of temperature on reaction rates is similar to the impact via the effect of temperature on biogenic emissions and the relative impacts are largely additive when compared to the run in which both are averaged. When averaged across 17 sites in Greater Sydney, the differences between ozone simulated under standard and averaged model conditions are as high as 16 ppbv. Removing biogenic emissions in the model has the effect of removing all simulated ozone episodes during extreme heat periods, highlighting the important role of biogenic emissions in Australia, where Eucalypts are a key biogenic source.
Semantic Multi-Classifier Systems Identify Predictive Processes in Heart Failure Models across Species
Authors: Lausser Ludwig , Siegle Lea , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Frank Derk , Just Steffen , Kestler Hans
Published: November 2018

Genetic model organisms have the potential of removing blind spots from the underlying gene regulatory networks of human diseases. Allowing analyses under experimental conditions they complement the insights gained from observational data. An inevitable requirement for a successful trans-species transfer is an abstract but precise high-level characterization of experimental findings. In this work, we provide a large-scale analysis of seven weak contractility/heart failure genotypes of the model organism zebrafish which all share a weak contractility phenotype. In supervised classification experiments, we screen for discriminative patterns that distinguish between observable phenotypes (homozygous mutant individuals) as well as wild-type (homozygous wild-types) and carriers (heterozygous individuals). As the method of choice we use semantic multi-classifier systems, a knowledge-based approach which constructs hypotheses from a predefined vocabulary of high-level terms (e.g., Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways or Gene Ontology (GO) terms). Evaluating these models leads to a compact description of the underlying processes and guides the screening for new molecular markers of heart failure. Furthermore, we were able to independently corroborate the identified processes in Wistar rats.
The Biogeography of Great Salt Lake Halophilic Archaea: Testing the Hypothesis of Avian Mechanical Carriers
Authors: Kemp Bex L. , Tabish Erin M. , Wolford Adam J. , Jones Daniel L. , Butler Jaimi K. , Baxter Bonnie K.
Published: November 2018

Halophilic archaea inhabit hypersaline ecosystems globally, and genetically similar strains have been found in locales that are geographically isolated from one another. We sought to test the hypothesis that small salt crystals harboring halophilic archaea could be carried on bird feathers and that bird migration is a driving force of these distributions. In this study, we discovered that the American White Pelicans (AWPE) at Great Salt Lake soak in the hypersaline brine and accumulate salt crystals (halite) on their feathers. We cultured halophilic archaea from AWPE feathers and halite crystals. The microorganisms isolated from the lakeshore crystals were restricted to two genera: Halorubrum and Haloarcula, however, archaea from the feathers were strictly Haloarcula. We compared partial DNA sequence of the 16S rRNA gene from our cultivars with that of similar strains in the GenBank database. To understand the biogeography of genetically similar halophilic archaea, we studied the geographical locations of the sampling sites of the closest-matched species. An analysis of the environmental factors of each site pointed to salinity as the most important factor for selection. The geography of the sites was consistent with the location of the sub-tropical jet stream where birds typically migrate, supporting the avian dispersal hypothesis.
Sharpening the Scythe of Technological Change: Socio-Technical Challenges of Autonomous and Adaptive Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Cancila Daniela , Gerstenmayer Jean-Louis , Espinoza Huascar , Passerone Roberto
Published: November 2018

Autonomous and Adaptative Cyber-Physical Systems (ACPS) represent a new knowledge frontier of converging “nano-bio-info-cogno” technologies and applications. ACPS have the ability to integrate new ‘mutagenic’ technologies, i.e., technologies able to cause mutations in the society. Emerging approaches, such as artificial intelligence techniques and deep learning, enable exponential speedups for supporting increasingly higher levels of autonomy and self-adaptation. In spite of this disruptive landscape, however, deployment and broader adoption of ACPS in safety-critical scenarios remains challenging. In this paper, we address some challenges that are stretching the limits of ACPS safety engineering, including tightly related aspects such as ethics and resilience. We argue that a paradigm change is needed that includes the entire socio-technical aspects, including trustworthiness, responsibility, liability, as well as the ACPS ability to learn from past events, anticipate long-term threads and recover from unexpected behaviors.
Unfolding the Complexity of the Global Value Chain: Strength and Entropy in the Single-Layer, Multiplex, and Multi-Layer International Trade Networks
Authors: A. Alves Luiz , Mangioni Giuseppe , Rodrigues Francisco , Panzarasa Pietro , Moreno Yamir
Published: November 2018

The worldwide trade network has been widely studied through different data sets and network representations with a view to better understanding interactions among countries and products. Here we investigate international trade through the lenses of the single-layer, multiplex, and multi-layer networks. We discuss differences among the three network frameworks in terms of their relative advantages in capturing salient topological features of trade. We draw on the World Input-Output Database to build the three networks. We then uncover sources of heterogeneity in the way strength is allocated among countries and transactions by computing the strength distribution and entropy in each network. Additionally, we trace how entropy evolved, and show how the observed peaks can be associated with the onset of the global economic downturn. Findings suggest how more complex representations of trade, such as the multi-layer network, enable us to disambiguate the distinct roles of intra- and cross-industry transactions in driving the evolution of entropy at a more aggregate level. We discuss our results and the implications of our comparative analysis of networks for research on international trade and other empirical domains across the natural and social sciences.
Effect of Clay Mineral Composition on Low-Salinity Water Flooding
Authors: Jiang Shan , Liang Pingping , Han Yujiao
Published: November 2018

Low-salinity water (LSW) flooding technology has obvious operational and economic advantages, so it is applied to practice in many oilfields. However, there are differences in the oil recovery efficiencies in different oilfields, the reasons for which need to be further studied and discussed. This paper studies the effect of different clay mineral compositions on low-salinity water flooding. For this purpose, three groups of core displacement experiments were designed with cores containing different clay mineral compositions for comparison. In the process of formation water and low-salinity water driving, the oil recovery and produced-water properties were measured. By comparing the two types of water flooding, it was found that the cores with the highest montmorillonite content had the best effect (5.7%) on low-salinity water flooding and the cores with the highest kaolinite content had the least effect (1.9%). This phenomenon is closely related to the difference in ion exchange capacity of the clay minerals. Moreover, after switching to low-salinity water flooding, the interfacial tension and wetting angle of the produced-water increased and the value of pH decreased, which are important mechanisms for enhancing oil recovery by low-salinity water flooding. This study reveals the influence of clay mineral composition on low-salinity water flooding and can provide more guidance for conventional and unconventional oilfield application of low-salinity water flooding technology.
Control Strategy Proposal for Modular Architecture of Power Supply Utilizing LCCT Converter
Authors: Frivaldsky Michal , Spanik Pavol , Morgos Jan , Pridala Michal
Published: November 2018

Following the invention of resonant power converters, lots of new topologies with significant improvements considering increase of efficiency and power density are arising. The main differences are related to the configuration of the resonant tank structure. In this paper, LCCT topology is proposed, while main aim is focused on the application of the modular architecture of power supply (MAPS) systems. Initially, principal analysis is given which describes basic features and components selection of LCCT resonant converter. After principal analysis, the application is oriented for above mentioned modular architecture of power supply, where more than one LCCT converter operated simultaneously is considered. The main asset within the presented system investigation is the proposal for the control strategy of the modular power supply system. Instead of the requirement on the most efficient operation within the whole operational power range of MAPS, the proposal for control strategy is given, while it is expected that each module of MAPS will be loaded evenly. The control strategy is based on the digital control, whereby sequential switching of the individual power stages is autonomous based on the information’s of the actual power load. Presented solution gives improvements of the parameters where extended range of input voltage, extended range of output power, flat characteristic of efficiency, and lower ripple current and/or voltage will be required.
The Coats of Arms and Other Forms of State Emblem Proposed for the Republic of Macedonia, and the Process of Their Adoption, 1992–2014
Authors: Jonovski Jovan
Published: November 2018

Selecting national emblems is crucial for the development of a national identity. This paper presents all official proposals for the coat of arms of the Republic of Macedonia, starting in 1992, with the proposals of the public competition for the selection of the coat of arms, flag, and anthem of the Republic of Macedonia, and finishing with the last Government proposal in 2014. All of the proposals are categorized according to their main symbol, a sun or a lion. The long and complex process of creating national symbols shows that there is a deep division regarding which one to use.
Associations between Body Mass Index and Subjective Health Outcomes among Older Adults: Findings from the Yilan Study, Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hsiao-Ting , Hsu Nai-Wei , Chen Hsi-Chung , Tsao Hsuan-Ming , Lo Su-Shun , Chou Pesus
Published: November 2018

Previous findings on the associations between body mass index (BMI) and subjective health outcomes among older adults are inconsistent. The aims of this study were to explore the associations of BMI with health-related quality of life (HRQoL), self-rated health (SRH) and happiness among older adults. This study was part of the Yilan study, which was a community-based survey conducted in the Yilan city in Taiwan. A total of 3722 older adults were randomly recruited during 2012–2016. HRQoL was measured using the Short Form-12 Health Survey physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores and SRH and happiness were also evaluated. By hierarchical regression, after adjusting for covariates, compared with normal-weight participants, overweight did not have significantly different PCS scores (B = 0.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.45 to 0.85, p = 0.546) but obese had significantly lower PCS scores (B = −0.97, 95% CI: −1.68 to −0.26, p < 0.0001); overweight and obese participants had significantly better MCS scores (B = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.40 to 1.61, p = 0.001 and B = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.60 to 1.88, p < 0.0001, respectively); overweight participants had significantly higher SRH scores (B = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.16 to 2.00, p = 0.022) but underweight had significantly lower SRH scores (B = −2.88, 95% CI: −4.81 to −0.95, p = 0.003); overweight and obese participants had better happiness scores (B = 1.55, 95% CI: 0.45 to 2.66, p = 0.006 and B = 1.68, 95% CI: 0.49 to 2.88, p = 0.006, respectively). In conclusion, compared with normal-weight individuals, overweight individuals had better mental HRQoL, SRH and happiness but underweight older people reported poorer SRH and obese reported poorer physical HRQOL but better mental HRQoL and self-rated happiness.
Migrant Farmworkers’ Exposure to Pesticides in Sonora, Mexico
Authors: López-Gálvez Nicolás , Wagoner Rietta , Beamer Paloma , De Zapien Jill , Rosales Cecilia
Published: November 2018

Expanding agribusiness in Sonora, a state in Northern Mexico, has increased the demand for temporary migrant agricultural workers. Sonora is one of the top states in Mexico for pesticide utilization. We conducted an exploratory study to evaluate exposure to organophosphate (OP) and pyrethroid pesticides among migrant farmworkers. A sample of 20 migrant farmworkers was recruited from a large commercial grape farm during the harvest season. We administered a questionnaire on work activities, exposure characteristics, and socio-demographics. We collected urine samples to quantify pesticide metabolite concentrations. Most participants were originally from the state of Chiapas, Mexico, none had completed high school, and about half spoke an indigenous language as well as Spanish. The majority of participants had detectable concentrations of pyrethroid and organophosphate biomarkers. Geometric mean creatinine-adjusted concentrations for 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (1.83 µg/g), trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid (0.88 µg/g), 4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (0.94 µg/g), 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (3.56 µg/g), and para-nitrophenol (0.63 µg/g) were significantly higher than in the general United States’ population and Mexican Americans. Our results also suggest that migrant farmworkers in this region are exposed to pesticides at higher levels than other farmworkers’ studies. Farmworkers’ age, language, training on personal protective equipment, time at the farm, and season, were significant exposure determinants.
Effect of a Toothpaste/Mouthwash Containing Carica papaya Leaf Extract on Interdental Gingival Bleeding: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Saliasi Ina , Llodra Juan Carlos , Bravo Manuel , Tramini Paul , Dussart Claude , Viennot Stéphane , Carrouel Florence
Published: November 2018

Clinical research on herbal-based dentifrice +/− mouth rinse products is very limited compared with the plethora of research on conventional oral care products under normal oral hygiene conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of a novel plant Carica papaya leaf extract (CPLE) on interdental bleeding in healthy subjects. In this randomized, single-blind parallel-design study, the eligible subjects were generally healthy non-smokers, aged 18–26, who exhibited healthy periodontal conditions upon study entry. The participants were equally randomized into the following four groups: CPLE dentifrice, CPLE dentifrice and mouthwash, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)-free enzyme-containing dentifrice and SLS-free enzyme-containing dentifrice with essential oil (EO) mouthwash. Subjects were instructed to brush their teeth twice a day without changing their other brushing habits. Interdental bleeding (BOIP) was measured from inclusion (T0) until the fourth week (T4) of the study. Clinical efficacy was assessed after one, two, three and four weeks of home use. The analyses compared BOIP between groups and were then restricted to participants with ≥70% and then ≥80% bleeding sites at T0. Pairwise comparisons between groups were performed at T0 and T4, and a logistic regression identified correlates of gingival bleeding (T4). Among 100 subjects (2273 interdental sites), the median percentage of bleeding sites per participant at T0 was 65%. The bleeding sites dramatically decreased in all groups between T0 and T4 (relative variations from −54% to −75%, p < 0.01 for all). Gingival bleeding did not significantly differ between the CPLE dentifrice and the SLS-free dentifrice +/− EO mouthwash groups (from p = 0.05 to p = 0.86), regardless of the baseline risk level. Among the CPLE dentifrice users, fewer bleeding sites were observed when toothpaste and mouthwash were combined compared to bleeding sites in those who used toothpaste alone (21% vs. 32%, p = 0.04). CPLE dentifrice/mouthwash provides an efficacious and natural alternative to SLS-free dentifrice +/−EO-containing mouthwash when used as an adjunct to mechanical oral care to reduce interdental gingival inflammation.
Effectiveness of a Malaria Surveillance Strategy Based on Active Case Detection during High Transmission Season in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Moreno-Gutierrez Diamantina , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Luis Barboza José , Contreras-Mancilla Juan , Gamboa Dionicia , Rodriguez Hugo , Carrasco-Escobar Gabriel , Boreux Raphaël , Hayette Marie-Pierre , Beutels Philippe , Speybroeck Niko , Rosas-Aguirre Angel
Published: November 2018

Background: Faced with the resurgence of malaria, malaria surveillance in the Peruvian Amazon incorporated consecutive active case detection (ACD) interventions using light microscopy (LM) as reactive measure in communities with an unusual high number of cases during high transmission season (HTS). We assessed the effectiveness in malaria detection of this local ACD-based strategy. Methods: A cohort study was conducted in June–July 2015 in Mazan, Loreto. Four consecutive ACD interventions at intervals of 10 days were conducted in four riverine communities (Gamitanacocha, Primero de Enero, Libertad and Urco Miraño). In each intervention, all inhabitants were visited at home, and finger-prick blood samples collected for immediate diagnosis by LM and on filter paper for later analysis by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Effectiveness was calculated by dividing the number of malaria infections detected using LM by the number of malaria infections detected by delayed qPCR. Results: Most community inhabitants (88.1%, 822/933) were present in at least one of the four ACD interventions. A total of 451 infections were detected by qPCR in 446 participants (54.3% of total participants); five individuals had two infections. Plasmodium vivax was the predominant species (79.8%), followed by P. falciparum (15.3%) and P. vivax-P. falciparum co-infections (4.9%). Most qPCR-positive infections were asymptomatic (255/448, 56.9%). The ACD-strategy using LM had an effectiveness of 22.8% (detection of 103 of the total qPCR-positive infections). Children aged 5–14 years, and farming as main economic activity were associated with P. vivax infections. Conclusions: Although the ACD-strategy using LM increased the opportunity of detecting and treating malaria infections during HTS, the number of detected infections was considerably lower than the real burden of infections (those detected by qPCR).
Mental Health among Migrants in Shenzhen, China: Does it Matter Whether the Migrant Population is Identified by Hukou or Birthplace?
Authors: Yang Min , Dijst Martin , Helbich Marco
Published: November 2018

Massive rural–urban migration in China has drawn attention to the prevalence of mental health problems among migrants. Research on the mental health of Chinese migrants has a narrow focus on rural–urban migrants, emphasizing the institutional role of hukou in migrant mental health. We argue that the heterogeneity of migrants, including their place of origin and whether they are temporary or permanent migrants, should be taken into account when trying to understand the meaning of migration as an actual movement from one place to another. The data used for this study is from a cross-sectional survey (N = 855) conducted in Shenzhen to compare the differences in migrants’ mental health that arise when using the two definitions (e.g., hukou and birthplace). Binary logistic regression models were estimated to assess the associations between people’s mental health and migration, while controlling for settlement experiences, self-reported physical health, and sociodemographics. The results reveal inconsistent findings across both definitions: general migrants by birthplace were found to be unlikely to have mental problems compared to non-migrants, whereas temporary migrants were at higher risk of mental problems. The study provides important evidence that different migrant groups have different mental health outcomes. The choice of the definition used influences both migrant group selection and the actual linkage between migration and mental health.
AutoCloud+, a “Universal” Physical and Statistical Model-Based 2D Spatial Topology-Preserving Software for Cloud/Cloud–Shadow Detection in Multi-Sensor Single-Date Earth Observation Multi-Spectral Imagery—Part 1: Systematic ESA EO Level 2 Product Generation at the Ground Segment as Broad Context
Authors: Baraldi Andrea , Tiede Dirk
Published: November 2018

The European Space Agency (ESA) defines Earth observation (EO) Level 2 information product the stack of: (i) a single-date multi-spectral (MS) image, radiometrically corrected for atmospheric, adjacency and topographic effects, with (ii) its data-derived scene classification map (SCM), whose thematic map legend includes quality layers cloud and cloud–shadow. Never accomplished to date in an operating mode by any EO data provider at the ground segment, systematic ESA EO Level 2 product generation is an inherently ill-posed computer vision (CV) problem (chicken-and-egg dilemma) in the multi-disciplinary domain of cognitive science, encompassing CV as subset-of artificial general intelligence (AI). In such a broad context, the goal of our work is the research and technological development (RTD) of a “universal” AutoCloud+ software system in operating mode, capable of systematic cloud and cloud–shadow quality layers detection in multi-sensor, multi-temporal and multi-angular EO big data cubes characterized by the five Vs, namely, volume, variety, veracity, velocity and value. For the sake of readability, this paper is divided in two. Part 1 highlights why AutoCloud+ is important in a broad context of systematic ESA EO Level 2 product generation at the ground segment. The main conclusions of Part 1 are both conceptual and pragmatic in the definition of remote sensing best practices, which is the focus of efforts made by intergovernmental organizations such as the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS). First, the ESA EO Level 2 product definition is recommended for consideration as state-of-the-art EO Analysis Ready Data (ARD) format. Second, systematic multi-sensor ESA EO Level 2 information product generation is regarded as: (a) necessary-but-not-sufficient pre-condition for the yet-unaccomplished dependent problems of semantic content-based image retrieval (SCBIR) and semantics-enabled information/knowledge discovery (SEIKD) in multi-source EO big data cubes, where SCBIR and SEIKD are part-of the GEO-CEOS visionary goal of a yet-unaccomplished Global EO System of Systems (GEOSS). (b) Horizontal policy, the goal of which is background developments, in a “seamless chain of innovation” needed for a new era of Space Economy 4.0. In the subsequent Part 2 (proposed as Supplementary Materials), the AutoCloud+ software system requirements specification, information/knowledge representation, system design, algorithm, implementation and preliminary experimental results are presented and discussed.
Chemoprevention of Colorectal Cancer by Dietary Compounds
Authors: Costea Teodora , Hudiță Ariana , Ciolac Oana-Alina , Gălățeanu Bianca , Ginghină Octav , Costache Marieta , Ganea Constanța , Mocanu Maria-Magdalena
Published: November 2018

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of death, and the third most diagnosed type of cancer, worldwide. It is most common amongst men and women over 50 years old. Risk factors include smoking, alcohol, diet, physical inactivity, genetics, alterations in gut microbiota, and associated pathologies (diabetes, obesity, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases). This review will discuss, in detail, the chemopreventive properties of some dietary compounds (phenolic compounds, carotenoids, iridoids, nitrogen compounds, organosulfur compounds, phytosterols, essential oil compounds, polyunsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber) against colorectal cancer. We present recent data, focusing on in vitro, laboratory animals and clinical trials with the previously mentioned compounds. The chemopreventive properties of the dietary compounds involve multiple molecular and biochemical mechanisms of action, such as inhibition of cell growth, inhibition of tumor initiation, inhibition of adhesion, migration and angiogenesis, apoptosis, interaction with gut microbiota, regulation of cellular signal transduction pathways and xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes, etc. Moreover, this review will also focus on the natural dietary compounds’ bioavailability, their synergistic protective effect, as well as the association with conventional therapy. Dietary natural compounds play a major role in colorectal chemoprevention and continuous research in this field is needed.
Dissection of the Structural Features of a Fungicidal Antibody-Derived Peptide
Authors: Pertinhez Thelma A. , Ciociola Tecla , Giovati Laura , Magliani Walter , Belletti Silvana , Polonelli Luciano , Conti Stefania , Spisni Alberto
Published: November 2018

The synthetic peptide T11F (TCRVDHRGLTF), derived from the constant region of human IgM antibodies, proved to exert a significant activity in vitro against yeast strains, including multidrug resistant isolates. Alanine substitution of positively charged residues led to a decrease in candidacidal activity. A more dramatic reduction in activity resulted from cysteine replacement. Here, we investigated the conformational properties of T11F and its alanine-substituted derivatives by circular dichroism (CD) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Peptide interaction with Candida albicans cells was studied by confocal and scanning electron microscopy. T11F and most of its derivatives exhibited CD spectra with a negative band around 200 nm and a weaker positive band around 218 nm suggesting, together with NMR coupling constants, the presence of a polyproline II (PPII) helix, a conformational motif involved in a number of biological functions. Analysis of CD spectra revealed a critical role for phenylalanine in preserving the PPII helix. In fact, only the F11A derivative presented a random coil conformation. Interestingly, the loss of secondary structure influenced the rate of killing, which turned out to be significantly reduced. Overall, the obtained results suggest that the PPII conformation contributes in characterising the cell penetrating and fungicidal properties of the investigated peptides.
Role of Forkhead Box O Transcription Factors in Oxidative Stress-Induced Chondrocyte Dysfunction: Possible Therapeutic Target for Osteoarthritis?
Authors: Wang Rikang , Zhang Shuai , Previn Rahul , Chen Di , Jin Yi , Zhou Guangqian
Published: November 2018

Chondrocyte dysfunction occurs during the development of osteoarthritis (OA), typically resulting from a deleterious increase in oxidative stress. Accordingly, strategies for arresting oxidative stress-induced chondrocyte dysfunction may lead to new potential therapeutic targets for OA treatment. Forkhead box O (FoxO) transcription factors have recently been shown to play a protective role in chondrocyte dysfunction through the regulation of inflammation, autophagy, aging, and oxidative stress. They also regulate growth, maturation, and matrix synthesis in chondrocytes. In this review, we discuss the recent progress made in the field of oxidative stress-induced chondrocyte dysfunction. We also discuss the protective role of FoxO transcription factors as potential molecular targets for the treatment of OA. Understanding the function of FoxO transcription factors in the OA pathology may provide new insights that will facilitate the development of next-generation therapies to prevent OA development and to slow OA progression.
The Ecological Significance and Implications of Transovarial Transmission among the Vector-Borne Bunyaviruses: A Review
Authors: Bergren Nicholas A. , Kading Rebekah C.
Published: November 2018

Transovarial transmission (TOT) is a widespread and efficient process through which pathogens can be passed between generations of arthropod vectors. Many species within the order Bunyavirales utilize TOT as a means of persisting within the environment when classical horizontal transmission is not possible due to ecological constraints. The purpose of this review is to summarize previous findings regarding the ecological significance of TOT among viruses in the order Bunyavirales and identify the gaps in knowledge regarding this important mechanism of arboviral maintenance.
Impact of Health Literacy on Frailty among Community-Dwelling Seniors
Authors: Huang Chi Hsien , Lai Yu-Cheng , Lee Yi Chen , Teong Xiao Tong , Kuzuya Masafumi , Kuo Kuang-Ming
Published: November 2018

Health literacy has been reported to have effects on health behavior change and health-related outcomes, but few studies have explored the association between health literacy and frailty. The aim of our study is to investigate the relationships between health literacy and frailty among community-dwelling seniors. This cross-sectional study enrolled 603 community-dwelling older adults (307 women) in residential areas, with a mean age of 70.9 ± 5.82 years. Health literacy was assessed using the Mandarin version of the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire. Physical frailty was defined by Fried frailty phenotype. Logistic regression was carried out to determine potential risk factors of frailty. In the multivariate logistic regression model, physical activity (Odds Ratio [OR] 1.47, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.06–2.03) and health literacy (sufficient vs. excellent: OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.32–4.77) were associated with prefrailty and frailty. In subgroup analysis, pre-frailty and frailty were also negatively associated with health literacy in individuals with ‘insufficiently active’ (inadequate vs. excellent: OR 5.44, 95% CI 1.6–18.45) and ‘sufficiently/highly active’ physical activity levels (sufficient vs. excellent: OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.07–5.42). Therefore, in these community-dwelling elderly adults, health literacy was associated with pre-frailty and frailty regardless of age, gender, socio-economic status, and education level.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α Agonist and Its Target Nanog Cooperate to Induce Pluripotency
Authors: Lee Jungwoon , Lee Jinhyuk , Cho Yee
Published: November 2018

The pharmaceutical compounds that modulate pluripotent stem cell (PSC) identity and function are increasingly adopted to generate qualified PSCs and their derivatives, which have promising potential in regenerative medicine, in pursuit of more accuracy and safety and less cost. Here, we demonstrate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) agonist as a novel enhancer of pluripotency acquisition and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) generation. We found that PPARα agonist, examined and selected Food and Drug Administration (FDA) -approved compound libraries, increase the expression of pluripotency-associated genes, such as Nanog, Nr5A2, Oct4, and Rex1, during the reprogramming process and facilitate iPSC generation by enhancing their reprogramming efficiency. A reprogramming-promoting effect of PPARα occurred via the upregulation of Nanog, which is essential for the induction and maintenance of pluripotency. Through bioinformatic analysis, we identified putative peroxisome proliferator responsive elements (PPREs) located within the promoter region of the Nanog gene. We also determined that PPARα can activate Nanog transcription by specific binding to putative PPREs. Taken together, our findings suggest that PPARα is an important regulator of PSC pluripotency and reprogramming, and PPARα agonists can be used to improve PSC technology and regenerative medicine.
Morphological Aspects in Ultrasound Visualisation of the Suprascapular Notch Region: A Study Based on a New Four-Step Protocol
Authors: Jezierski Hubert , Podgórski Michał , Wysiadecki Grzegorz , Olewnik Łukasz , De Caro Raffaele , Macchi Veronica , Polguj Michał
Published: November 2018

Background: Sonographic evaluation of the suprascapular notch (SSN) region is clinically important, because it is the most common location for performing suprascapular nerve block. The aim of the study was to describe the morphology of the SSN region based on ultrasound examination and in accordance with the patients’ body mass index (BMI). Material and Methods: The SSN region was sonographically examined in 120 healthy volunteers according to our new four-step protocol. The morphometry of the SSN and the neurovascular bundle was assessed, and patients’ BMI were calculated. The shape of the suprascapular notch was classified based on its superior transverse diameter (STD) and maximal depth (MD). Result: The type III scapular notch was the most prevalent (64%). The BMI was higher in type IV/V (27.38 ± 3.76) than in type I (24.77 ± 3.49). However, no significant differences were observed in the distribution of SSN notch types with regard to BMI (p = 0.0536). The suprascapular artery was visualised in all of the recognised SSNs, while the suprascapular vein and nerve were visualised only in 74.9% and 48.1% of the SSNs, respectively. The suprascapular nerve was significantly thicker on the right side (3.5 ± 1.1 mm) than on the left (1.3 ± 0.4 mm) (p = 0.001). In contrast, the suprascapular vein (1.5 ± 0.9 mm) was found to be a significantly wider on the left side than the right (1.2 ± 0.7 mm) (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Our original four-step sonographic protocol enabled characterising the morphology of the SSN region, despite the SSN notch types. The suprascapular artery is the best sonographic landmark for the suprascapular notch region. No significant differences were found between sides regarding the thickness of the soft tissue above the suprascapular nerve and vessels. Recognition of the SSN morphology is not affected by the BMI.
Towards Energy-Efficient and Secure Computing Systems
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Yu Qiaoyan
Published: November 2018

Countermeasures against diverse security threats typically incur noticeable hardware cost and power overhead, which may become the obstacle for those countermeasures to be applicable in energy-efficient computing systems. This work presents a summary of energy-efficiency techniques that have been applied in security primitives or mechanisms to ensure computing systems’ resilience against various security threats on hardware. This work also uses examples to discuss practical methods for securing the hardware for computing systems to achieve energy efficiency.
Drilling Process in γ-TiAl Intermetallic Alloys
Authors: Beranoagirre Aitor , Urbikain Gorka , Calleja Amaia , López de Lacalle Luis Norberto
Published: November 2018

Gamma titanium aluminides (γ-TiAl) present an excellent behavior under high temperature conditions, being a feasible alternative to nickel-based superalloy components in the aeroengine sector. However, considered as a difficult to cut material, process cutting parameters require special study to guarantee component quality. In this work, a developed drilling mechanistic model is a useful tool in order to predict drilling force (Fz) and torque (Tc) for optimal drilling conditions. The model is a helping tool to select operational parameters for the material to cut by providing the programmer predicted drilling forces (Fz) and torque (Tc) values. This will allow the avoidance of operational parameters that will cause excessively high force and torque values that could damage quality. The model is validated for three types of Gamma-TiAl alloys. Integral hard metal end-drilling tools and different cutting parameters (feeds and cutting speeds) are tested for three different sized holes for each alloy.
The A, B and C’s of Silicone Breast Implants: Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, Biofilm and Capsular Contracture
Authors: Mempin Maria , Hu Honghua , Chowdhury Durdana , Deva Anand , Vickery Karen
Published: November 2018

Breast implantation either for cosmetic or reconstructive e purposes is one of the most common procedures performed in plastic surgery. Biofilm infection is hypothesised to be involved in the development of both capsular contracture and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). Capsular contracture is one of the principal reasons for breast revision surgery and is characterised by the tightening and hardening of the capsule surrounding the implant, and ALCL is an indolent lymphoma found only in women with textured implants. We describe the types of breast implants available with regard to their surface characteristics of surface area and roughness and how this might contribute to capsular contracture and/or biofilm formation. The pathogenesis of capsular contracture is thought to be due to biofilm formation on the implant, which results in on-going inflammation. We describe the current research into breast implant associated ALCL and how implant properties may affect its pathogenesis, with ALCL only occurring in women with textured implants.
Laboratory Evaluation on Performance of Eco-Friendly Basalt Fiber and Diatomite Compound Modified Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Cheng Yongchun , Yu Di , Gong Yafeng , Zhu Chunfeng , Tao Jinglin , Wang Wensheng
Published: November 2018

This study proposed an asphalt mixture modified by basalt fiber and diatomite. Performance of diatomite modified asphalt mixture (DAM), basalt fiber modified asphalt mixture (BFAM), diatomite and basalt fiber compound modified asphalt mixture (DBFAM), and control asphalt mixture (AM) were investigated by experimental methods. The wheel tracking test, low-temperature indirect tensile test, moisture susceptibility test, fatigue test and freeze–thaw cycles test of four kinds of asphalt mixtures were carried out. The results show that the addition of basalt fiber and diatomite can improve the pavement performance. Diatomite has a significant effect on the high temperature stability, moisture susceptibility and resistance to moisture and frost damage under freeze–thaw cycles of asphalt mixture. Basalt fiber has a significant effect on low-temperature cracking resistance of asphalt mixture. Composed modified asphalt mixture has obvious advantages on performance compared to the control asphalt mixture. It will provide a reference for the design of asphalt mixture in seasonal frozen regions.
Effects of Substrate Preheating Temperatures on the Microstructure, Properties, and Residual Stress of 12CrNi2 Prepared by Laser Cladding Deposition Technique
Authors: Ding Chenggang , Cui Xu , Jiao Jianqiang , Zhu Ping
Published: November 2018

The 12CrNi2 alloy steel powder studied in the present paper is mainly used to manufacture camshafts for nuclear power emergency diesel engines. Laser cladding deposition is of great significance for the manufacture of nuclear power emergency diesel camshafts, which has the advantages of reducing material cost and shortening the manufacturing cycle. However, due to the extremely uneven heating of the components during the deposition process, a complex residual stress field occurs, resulting in crack defects and residual deformation of the components. In the present paper, 12CrNi2 bulk specimens were prepared on the Q460E high-strength structural steel substrate at different preheating temperatures by laser cladding deposition technique, and a finite element residual stress analysis model was established to investigate the effects of different preheating temperatures on the microstructure, properties, and residual stress of the specimens. The results of the experiments and finite element simulations show that with the increase of preheating temperature, the content of martensite/bainite in the deposited layer decreases, and the ferrite content increases. The proper preheating temperature (150 °C) has good mechanical properties. The residual stress on the surface of each specimen decreases with the increase of the preheating temperature. The longitudinal stress is greater at the rear-end deposition part, and the lateral residual stress is greater on both sides along the scanning direction.
Cutting Force Model for Thermal-Assisted Machining of Tool Steel Based on the Taguchi Method
Authors: Mac Thi-Bich , Dinh Van-Chien , Banh Tien-Long , Nguyen Duc-Toan
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates cutting force in thermal-assisted machining (TAM) by induction heating for SKD11 tool steel which is widely used in the mold industry. Experimental studies were first conducted at room and elevated temperatures to evaluate the effectiveness of the heating process on chip morphology and the cutting forces during the thermal-assisted machining and comparing with conventional machining method. The Taguchi method based on orthogonal array and analysis of variance ANOVA method was then used to design the number of experiments and evaluate the influence of cutting speed, feed rate, cutting depth, and elevated temperature on the cutting force. Study results showed a decrease in the cutting force in the TAM process. The optimal condition of parameters obtained for thermal-assisted machining were cutting speed 280 m/min, feed rate 230 mm/min, cutting depth 0.5 mm and temperature 400 °C. Finally, a proposed equation was established to determine the cutting force that was presented as a function of elevated temperatures when milling SKD11 material. A proposed cutting force model was compared, evaluated and confirmed to be in good agreement with experimental results.
Forming and Oxidation Behavior During Forging with Consideration of Carbon Content of Steel
Authors: Graf Marcel , Ullmann Madlen , Korpala Grzegorz , Wester Hendrik , Awiszus Birgit , Kawalla Rudolf , Behrens Bernd-Arno
Published: November 2018

Developments in technology rely increasingly on the numerical simulation of single process steps up to whole process chains using commercially available or user-written software systems, mostly based on the finite element method (FEM). However, detailed simulations require realistic models. These models consider the relevant material-specific parameters and coefficients for the basic material, surface phenomena, and dies, as well as machine kinematics. This knowledge exists to some extent for certain materials, but not in general for groups of steel that depend on alloying elements. Nevertheless, the basic material and its behavior before, during, and after hot deformation must be understood when designing and describing die-forging processes by experimental and numerical simulations. This is why a new mathematical approach has been formulated for forming behavior and recrystallization kinetics, taking into account the carbon content of the base material, the initial microstructure, and the reheating mode. Furthermore, there have been no studies investigating the influence of varying a single chemical element, such as the carbon content, with regard to the oxidation behavior, including the internal structure (e.g., pores) at high temperatures. In this context the majority of studies were performed with steel grade C45 (material no. 1.0503), which was chosen as base material for the experiments conducted. To identify the effects of the alloying element carbon on the material and oxidation behavior, steel grades C15 (material no. 1.0401) and C60 (material no. 1.0601) were also investigated. The investigations revealed a dependence of the material behavior (microstructure and surface) on the alloying system. Based on the experimental results, the mathematical models formulated were parameterized and implemented in the FE-software Simufact Forming (Simufact Engineering GmbH, Hamburg, Germany) by means of user subroutines. Furthermore, a correlation between the thickness of the oxide scale layer and friction was determined in ring compression tests and accounted for in the software code. Finally, real forging tests were carried out under laboratory conditions, with all three investigated steels for calibration of the materials as well as the FE models.
Low-Temperature Carburization of AL-6XN Enabled by Provisional Passivation
Authors: Li Zhen , Illing Cyprian , Heuer Arthur H. , Ernst Frank
Published: November 2018

Employing AISI-AL-6XN as example, we introduce a new method of surface activation for low-temperature carburization. This method consists of two steps: (i) removing the passivating surface oxide and a potentially existing severely plastically deformed surface layer (Beilby layer) by aqueous (liquid) hydrochloric acid, and (ii) immersion in ethanol and subsequent drying in nitrogen. Upon carburization with a gas mixture of acetylene, hydrogen, and nitrogen, this new method of surface activation enables the formation of a fully developed “case”, i.e., a uniform solid solution of interstitial carbon in austenite with carbon fractions up to 0.20 near the alloy surface. The underlying mechanism of surface activation is shown to involve the formation of a provisional passivating layer. It consists of chlorides or ethoxides that are insoluble in ethanol. It prevents the reformation of the regular Cr-rich passivating oxide layer and is readily removed upon heating and exposure to the carburizing gas. As the new activation method is quicker, more effective, and less destructive to furnace hardware than activation with hot gaseous hydrochloric acid that is currently applied in industrial manufacturing, it may have considerable technological impact.