bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partially Overlapping Printing with Digital Filter to Improve Quality of Volume Hologram Printer – Numerical Simulation –
Authors: Hua Hangbo , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Yoshikawa Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

The volume hologram printer is useful for 3D display, because it is selective to the wavelength and be able to reconstruct with the natural illumination. There are many studies of a volume hologram printer been studied to output a volume hologram from a computer-generated hologram. The final volume hologram consists of tiled small holograms and the tiling manner often causes spilt lines which will have impact on image quality. With an intent to get rid of the split lines and improve the quality, fully overlapping printing was proposed recently. Each elemental hologram is overlapped both in vertical and horizontal directions by 50%. Then, the hologram is printed four times in each area and it makes the printing speed four times slower. For this case, partially overlapping printing is proposed in this paper to improve image quality with small effect in printing speed. For partial overlapping, a digital spatial filter is projected and added to every elemental hologram. Using the digital spatial filter, different partially overlapped holograms are calculated and reconstructed to compare to the non-overlapped ones. The simulation result shows that the overlapped one (10% in both vertical and horizontal) has much weaker gaps and black lines.
Surface Modification of 3D Printed PLA/Halloysite Composite Scaffolds with Antibacterial and Osteogenic Capabilities
Authors: Luo Yangyang , Humayun Ahmed , Mills David K.
Published: June 2020

Three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques have received considerable focus in the area of bone engineering due to its precise control in the fabrication of complex structures with customizable shapes, internal and external architectures, mechanical strength, and bioactivity. In this study, we design a new composition biomaterial consisting of polylactic acid (PLA), and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) loaded with zinc nanoparticles (PLA+H+Zn). The hydrophobic surface of the 3D printed scaffold was coated with two layers of fetal bovine serum (FBS) on the sides and one layer of NaOH in the middle. Additionally, a layer of gentamicin was coated on the outermost layer against bacterial infection. Scaffolds were cultured in standard cell culture medium without the addition of osteogenic medium. This surface modification strategy improved material hydrophilicity and enhanced cell adhesion. Pre-osteoblasts cultured on these scaffolds differentiated into osteoblasts and proceeded to produce a type I collagen matrix and subsequent calcium deposition. The 3D printed scaffolds formed from this composition possessed high mechanical strength and showed an osteoinductive potential. Furthermore, the external coating of antibiotics not only preserved the previous osteogenic properties of the 3D scaffold but also significantly reduced bacterial growth. Our surface modification model enabled the fabrication of a material surface that was hydrophilic and antibacterial, simultaneously, with an osteogenic property. The designed PLA+H+Zn may be a viable candidate for the fabrication of customized bone implants.
A Site-Specific Response Analysis: A Case Study in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Van-Quang , Aaqib Muhammad , Nguyen Duy-Duan , Luat Nguyen-Vu , Park Duhee
Published: June 2020

A series of one-dimensional (1-D) site response analyses were performed using the nonlinear (NL) and equivalent linear (EQL) approaches to assess the applicability of the Vietnamese earthquake-resistance design code TCVN 9386: 2012. Six soil profiles were selected from three districts in Hanoi (Vietnam). A number of ground motions compatible with the rock design spectrum were used as input for carrying out analyses. The results highlight that the calculated response is higher than the design spectrum for site class C and lower for site class D. The normalized response spectra of the EQL approach results are higher than those of the NL approach. Moreover, the peak ground accelerations at the surface from EQL analyses are greater than those of the NL method because the latter generates a higher amount of nonlinearity. The results from the NL approach also illustrate that the deamplification phenomenon occurs in the soft soils of the Hanoi region (e.g., soil profile P3 and P5 of site class D). Additionally, the shear strains calculated from the NL method are closely matched with those from the EQL method, the difference between them increasing with a decrease in soil stiffness.
Effects of Internal Force Redistribution on the Limit States of Continuous Beams with GFRP Reinforcement
Authors: Baša Nikola , Kopitović Vuković Nataša , Ulićević Mladen , Muhadinović Mladen
Published: June 2020

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) are commonly used as internal reinforcement in RC structures in aggressive environments. The design of concrete elements reinforced with FRP bars is usually ruled by serviceability criteria rather than the ultimate limit state. Six continuous concrete beams over two spans with longitudinal and transverse glass FRP (GFRP) reinforcement were investigated until failure to estimate the effects of different reinforcement arrangements on the limit states of continuous beams. The ratio of longitudinal reinforcement between the midspan and middle support sections (i.e., the design moment redistribution) and the type of GFRP reinforcement were the main parameters. The experimental results were compared to prediction models and other code formulations under serviceability and ultimate limit states. The bond-dependent coefficient kb was investigated to assess adhesion conditions for GFRP reinforcement and concrete. The results showed that moment redistribution in continuous beams with GFRP reinforcement happens with slippage between the reinforcement and concrete in the middle support without the load capacity being reduced. A modified model was suggested for better deflection prediction of continuous beams reinforced with GFRP bars. Based on deformability factors, the tested continuous beams, although containing GFRP reinforcement that has brittle behavior, showed a certain kind of ductile behavior.
An Asphalt Damage Dataset and Detection System Based on RetinaNet for Road Conditions Assessment
Authors: Ochoa-Ruiz Gilberto , Angulo-Murillo Andrés Alonso , Ochoa-Zezzatti Alberto , Aguilar-Lobo Lina María , Vega-Fernández Juan Antonio , Natraj Shailendra
Published: June 2020

The analysis and follow up of asphalt infrastructure using image processing techniques has received increased attention recently. However, the vast majority of developments have focused only on determining the presence or absence of road damages, forgoing other more pressing concerns. Nonetheless, in order to be useful to road managers and governmental agencies, the information gathered during an inspection procedure must provide actionable insights that go beyond punctual and isolated measurements: the characteristics, type, and extent of the road damages must be effectively and automatically extracted and digitally stored, preferably using inexpensive mobile equipment. In recent years, computer vision acquisition systems have emerged as a promising solution for road damage automated inspection systems when integrated into georeferenced mobile computing devices such as smartphones. However, the artificial intelligence algorithms that power these computer vision acquisition systems have been rather limited owing to the scarcity of large and homogenized road damage datasets. In this work, we aim to contribute in bridging this gap using two strategies. First, we introduce a new and very large asphalt dataset, which incorporates a set of damages not present in previous studies, making it more robust and representative of certain damages such as potholes. This dataset is composed of 18,345 road damage images captured by a mobile phone mounted on a car, with 45,435 instances of road surface damages (linear, lateral, and alligator cracks; potholes; and various types of painting blurs). In order to generate this dataset, we obtained images from several public datasets and augmented it with crowdsourced images, which where manually annotated for further processing. The images were captured under a variety of weather and illumination conditions and a quality-aware data augmentation strategy was employed to filter out samples of poor quality, which helped in improving the performance metrics over the baseline. Second, we trained different object detection models amenable for mobile implementation with an acceptable performance for many applications. We performed an ablation study to assess the effectiveness of the quality-aware data augmentation strategy and compared our results with other recent works, achieving better accuracies (mAP) for all classes and lower inference times (3× faster).
Performance of Thermally Modified Spruce Timber in Outdoor Above-Ground Conditions: Checking, Dynamic Stiffness and Static Bending Properties
Authors: van Blokland Joran , Adamopoulos Stergios , Ahmed Sheikh Ali
Published: June 2020

Previous studies have shown that thermally modified wood (TMW) performs well in outdoor, above-ground conditions in terms of resistance to wood-decaying fungi. Yet, little is known about the development of defects such as checks and the corresponding mechanical properties of TMW in this condition. This experiment focused on the effect of 30 months outdoor above-ground exposure (weathering) on the degree of checking, dynamic stiffness and static bending properties of thermally modified timber (TMT) of Norway spruce. Two board pairs per log were cut from 190 logs; one board of each pair was thermally modified and the other used as control. Then, 90 board pairs were exposed to the weather in south Sweden. Surface checking and axial stiffness were monitored at six-month intervals by using digital photography and non-destructive tests (time-of-flight and resonance method) to monitor changes in the material upon weathering. Finally, all boards were tested destructively in a 4-point static bending test following EN 408 standard. Results showed that weathering had no significance influence on static bending properties of TMT even though the degree of checking was considerably higher in TMT than unmodified timber after weathering. In particular, checks along growth rings were deeper, longer and more common in TMT after weathering, especially on the pith side of boards. The maximum depth of these checks did not depend on board orientation (i.e., which side was exposed) and exceeded limits given in strength grading standards for 7% of the modified boards included. Axial dynamic stiffness determined at 6-month intervals was less influenced by fluctuations in moisture content for TMT compared to unmodified timber, but did not confirm the increase in the degree of checking of TMT. The presence of checks from weathering did influence failure modes in TMT; horizontal shear failure became more frequent and some boards failed in compression.
Experimental Investigation of Magnetic Particle Movement in Two-Phase Vertical Flow under an External Magnetic Field Using 2D LIF-PIV
Authors: Lee Changje , Choi Yong-Seok
Published: June 2020

In this study, we experimentally investigated magnetic particle movement in two-phase flow under an external magnetic field. According to Faraday’s law, the alignment of a magnet is important for power generation. For high generation, it is important to understand how magnetic particles move in two-phase flow. The rotationality could be determined by observing a single particle; however, this is impossible due to the flow conditions. In this study, we estimated nonrotationality based on the vorticity. To eliminate scattered light and improve the signal-to-noise ratio, the laser-induced fluorescence particle image velocimetry technique was used. The solenoid nozzle has a hydraulic diameter of 3 mm. Its surface is covered with a coil with a diameter of 0.3 mm. The average diameter of a magnetic particle is 1.2 μm. The excitation and emission wavelengths are 532 and 612 nm, respectively. A thin laser sheet setup was configured. The laser sheet was illuminated on both sides to prevent shadows. The images were captured at 200 μm away from the wall and center of the nozzle. To estimate the decrease in vorticity, the theoretical and single-phase non-magnetic and magnetic particles are compared. The vorticity of magnetic particles is reduced by the external magnetic field.
Identification of NLOS and Multi-Path Conditions in UWB Localization Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Sang Cung Lian , Steinhagen Bastian , Homburg Jonas Dominik , Adams Michael , Hesse Marc , Rückert Ulrich
Published: June 2020

In ultra-wideband (UWB)-based wireless ranging or distance measurement, differentiation between line-of-sight (LOS), non-line-of-sight (NLOS), and multi-path (MP) conditions is important for precise indoor localization. This is because the accuracy of the reported measured distance in UWB ranging systems is directly affected by the measurement conditions (LOS, NLOS, or MP). However, the major contributions in the literature only address the binary classification between LOS and NLOS in UWB ranging systems. The MP condition is usually ignored. In fact, the MP condition also has a significant impact on the ranging errors of the UWB compared to the direct LOS measurement results. However, the magnitudes of the error contained in MP conditions are generally lower than completely blocked NLOS scenarios. This paper addresses machine learning techniques for identification of the three mentioned classes (LOS, NLOS, and MP) in the UWB indoor localization system using an experimental dataset. The dataset was collected in different conditions in different scenarios in indoor environments. Using the collected real measurement data, we compared three machine learning (ML) classifiers, i.e., support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) based on an ensemble learning method, and multilayer perceptron (MLP) based on a deep artificial neural network, in terms of their performance. The results showed that applying ML methods in UWB ranging systems was effective in the identification of the above-three mentioned classes. Specifically, the overall accuracy reached up to 91.9% in the best-case scenario and 72.9% in the worst-case scenario. Regarding the F1-score, it was 0.92 in the best-case and 0.69 in the worst-case scenario. For reproducible results and further exploration, we provide the publicly accessible experimental research data discussed in this paper at PUB (Publications at Bielefeld University). The evaluations of the three classifiers are conducted using the open-source Python machine learning library scikit-learn.
Retrofit Fatigue Cracked Diaphragm Cutouts Using Improved Geometry in Orthotropic Steel Decks
Authors: Chen Zhuo-Yi , Li Chuan-Xi , He Jun , Xin Hao-Hui
Published: June 2020

Diaphragm cutouts are set to release redundant constraints and hence reduce weld fatigue at the connection of U-ribs to diaphragms in orthotropic steel decks. However, most fatigue cracks which originate from the edge of cutouts are in fact detected in the diaphragms. Therefore, a retrofit technology on cracked cutouts at the diaphragm is proposed and applied to the orthotropic steel box girder of a suspension bridge. Firstly, the stress concentration on the cutout is analyzed through refined finite element analyses. Furthermore, the fatigue cracked cutouts are retrofitted by changing their geometrical parameters. Thereafter, an optimized geometry and the size of diaphragm cutouts were confirmed and applied in the rehabilitation of a suspension bridge. On-site wheel load tests were carried out before and after retrofitting of the diaphragm cutout. The stress distributions along the edges of the cutouts and at the side of a diaphragm were measured under a moving vehicle. The stress spectra at two critical locations on the edge of a cutout was obtained under longitudinally and laterally moving vehicles. Finally, the fatigue life of the cutouts is assessed by the modified nominal stress method. The analytical and test results indicate that the wheel loads on the deck transmit stress to the diaphragms through the U-ribs, during the load transmission process, the stress flow is obstructed by diaphragm cutouts, resulting in local stress concentrations around the cutouts. In addition, the overall size of the cutouts should be small, but the radius of the transition arc should be large, thus the stress flow will not be obviously obstructed. After the retrofitting of the cutouts by improved geometry, the maximum stress decreases by 87.6 MPa, which is about 40% of the original stress. The equivalent constant amplitude stress is reduced by 55.2% when the lateral position of the wheel loads is taken into consideration. Based on the stresses obtained by finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental tests, the fatigue lives of the original cutouts are 1.7 and 4.9 years, respectively, which increase to 78.1 and 155.5 years, respectively, after the cutouts were retrofitted, which indicates that the improved geometry and retrofit technology can enhance the fatigue performance and extend the fatigue life of diaphragm cutouts with fatigue cracks.
Nighttime Vehicle Detection and Tracking with Occlusion Handling by Pairing Headlights and Taillights
Authors: Pham Tuan-Anh , Yoo Myungsik
Published: June 2020

In recent years, vision-based vehicle detection has received considerable attention in the literature. Depending on the ambient illuminance, vehicle detection methods are classified as daytime and nighttime detection methods. In this paper, we propose a nighttime vehicle detection and tracking method with occlusion handling based on vehicle lights. First, bright blobs that may be vehicle lights are segmented in the captured image. Then, a machine learning-based method is proposed to classify whether the bright blobs are headlights, taillights, or other illuminant objects. Subsequently, the detected vehicle lights are tracked to further facilitate the determination of the vehicle position. As one vehicle is indicated by one or two light pairs, a light pairing process using spatiotemporal features is applied to pair vehicle lights. Finally, vehicle tracking with occlusion handling is applied to refine incorrect detections under various traffic situations. Experiments on two-lane and four-lane urban roads are conducted, and a quantitative evaluation of the results shows the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The Feasibility and Environmental Impact of Sustainable Public Transportation: A PV Supplied Electric Bus Network
Authors: Dalala Zakariya , Al Banna Omar , Saadeh Osama
Published: June 2020

Limited fuel resources and the huge negative impact on the environment from using fossil fuels have led to an urgency to utilize the most energy efficient solutions for public transportation. Environmentally sustainable solutions can deliver the same benefits of traditional systems, but without the negative impacts. The Bus Rapid Transit Project of Amman (Amman BRT) is used as a case study. Proposed measures include using electric buses instead of diesel ones, and installing elevated photovoltaic systems above buses parking and routes, in addition to using LED street lighting. The feasibility study of applying the proposed measures on the Amman BRT project showed that only 7.1 years is needed to payback the incremental investment throughout this transformation. Capital expenditure (CAPEX) is higher than the baseline buses, while operational expenditure (OPEX) is much lower, resulting in a 32% lower total cost of ownership (TCO). In addition, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are reduced by 27,203.68 metric ton of CO2 per year and 408,055.26 metric tons for the 15-year lifetime of the project.
A Gliding Arc Microreactor Power Supply System Based on Push–Pull Converter Topology
Authors: Krupski Piotr , Stryczewska Henryka Danuta
Published: June 2020

The era of evolution in power electronic systems has led to a widespread displacement of power supplies operating at mains frequencies. Switched-mode power inverters offer possibilities incomparably higher than mains transformers. These trends have also entered into plasma technologies, including GlidArc plasma processing. The article presents the use of an inverter power supply for a miniaturized GlidArc. It is a demonstration of using a push–pull topology in an unusual application. A special part is devoted to parasitic phenomena in the inverter and the implementation of switching overvoltages as a way of improving the ignition parameters of the power supply. The results of the tests with a plasma reactor in air conditions as a process gas are also presented.
Cyst Detection and Motion Artifact Elimination in Enface Optical Coherence Tomography Angiograms
Authors: Torti Emanuele , Toma Caterina , Vujosevic Stela , Nucci Paolo , De Cillà Stefano , Leporati Francesco
Published: June 2020

The correct detection of cysts in Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography images is of crucial importance for allowing reliable quantitative evaluation in patients with macular edema. However, this is a challenging task, since the commercially available software only allows manual cysts delineation. Moreover, even small eye movements can cause motion artifacts that are not always compensated by the commercial software. In this paper, we propose a novel algorithm based on the use of filters and morphological operators, to eliminate the motion artifacts and delineate the cysts contours/borders. The method has been validated on a dataset including 194 images from 30 patients, comparing the algorithm results with the ground truth produced by the medical doctors. The Jaccard index between the algorithmic and the manual detection is 98.97%, with an overall accuracy of 99.62%.
Potential Energy Recovery System for Electric Heavy Forklift Based on Double Hydraulic Motor-Generators
Authors: Fu Shengjie , Chen Haibin , Ren Haoling , Lin Tianliang , Miao Cheng , Chen Qihuai
Published: June 2020

Heavy forklifts that are widely used in ports and stations have large gravitational potential energy at the lowering of the boom. As concerning the large rated power level, the engine is still the main power source for the heavy forklifts. With the increasingly stringent emissions regulations, the electric heavy forklift becomes an important choice. The structure and the working mode of an electric heavy forklift are introduced. Additionally the schematic of double hydraulic motor-generators is adopted to regenerate the potential energy when the boom is descending. The judge rule of the working mode and control strategy are analyzed. A test rig of a prototype electric heavy forklift is established. Control mode discrimination of potential energy regeneration, the control performance and the influence factors on regeneration efficiency are tested based on the test rig. The experimental results show that the discrimination method of the working mode of the proposed double hydraulic motor-generators with a potential energy regeneration system for potential energy is feasible. The descending of the lifting cylinder is consistent with the handle. The forklift can obtain the good following ability. Although the lifting cylinder descends at low velocity, the velocity is stable and the fluctuation of the rodless chamber pressure is within 0.1 MPa. With the increase of the load mass and descending velocity, the regeneration efficiency increases accordingly. The maximum efficiency is up to 74%. Hence, the proposed potential energy regeneration system is feasible and potential energy regeneration system does not affect the control performance of the boom.
Levels and Changes of Physical Activity in Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Contextualizing Urban vs. Rural Living Environment
Authors: Zenic Natasa , Taiar Redha , Gilic Barbara , Blazevic Mateo , Maric Dora , Pojskic Haris , Sekulic Damir
Published: June 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing implemented shortly after influence physical activity levels (PALs). The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the changes in PAL and factors associated with PALs among Croatian adolescents while considering the impact of community (urban vs. rural living environment). The sample included 823 adolescents (mean age: 16.5 ± 2.1 years) who were tested on baseline (from October 2019 to March 2020; before COVID-19 pandemic in Croatia) and follow-up (in April 2020; during the COVID-19 pandemic and imposed rules of social distancing). Baseline testing included anthropometrics, physical fitness status, and evaluation of PALs, while follow-up included only PALs (evaluated by a standardized questionnaire through an internet application). The results showed a significant influence of the living environment on the decrease of PAL, with a larger decrease in urban adolescents. Logistic regression showed a higher likelihood for normal PALs at baseline in adolescents who had better fitness status, with no strong confounding effect of the urban/rural environment. The fitness status of urban adolescents predicted their PALs at follow-up. The differences between urban and rural adolescents with regard to the established changes in PALs and relationships between the predictors and PALs are explained by the characteristics of the living communities (lack of organized sports in rural areas), and the level of social distancing in the studied period and region/country.
Imaging the Extracellular Matrix in Prevalent Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Chaher Nadia , Hajhosseiny Reza , Phinikaridou Alkystis , Botnar René M.
Published: June 2020

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly complex macromolecular network present in all tissues and organs. The ECM is continuously remodelling under an orchestrated process facilitated by many matrix-degrading and matrix-synthesising enzymes in both health and disease. Disturbance of this balance can be the result of or can lead to various diseases. In cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), changes to the ECM are evident in conditions including: atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction (MI), venous thromboembolism (VTE) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). ECM proteins and ECM regulating enzymes are differently expressed in various CVDs. Most importantly, the altered deposition, macromolecule arrangement and activity of the ECM makes it an attractive marker of disease onset, pathogenesis and progression. Many medical imaging modalities allow disease assessment by exploiting native image contrast, by using non-targeted or by using protein or cell specific (targeted) imaging probes. However, the ability to directly visualise and quantify changes in specific ECM proteins enhances our understanding of the biological role of these proteins, enables monitoring of disease progression and response to treatment and may improve patient diagnosis and allocation of personalised therapies. This review focuses on the biochemistry of the major extracellular matrix proteins and advancements in the development of ECM-targeted probes for molecular imaging of CVD, particularly for applications of molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and position emission tomography (PET) imaging.
Using Low-Cost Measurement Systems to Investigate Air Quality: A Case Study in Palapye, Botswana
Authors: Lassman William , Pierce Jeffrey R. , Bangs Evelyn J. , Sullivan Amy P. , Ford Bonne , Mengistu Tsidu Gizaw , Sherman James P. , Collett Jeffrey L. , Bililign Solomon
Published: June 2020

Exposure to particulate air pollution is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. In developing countries, the combustion of solid fuels is widely used as a source of energy, and this process can produce exposure to harmful levels of particulate matter with diameters smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5). However, as countries develop, solid fuel may be replaced by centralized coal combustion, and vehicles burning diesel and gasoline may become common, changing the concentration and composition of PM2.5, which ultimately changes the population health effects. Therefore, there is a continuous need for in-situ monitoring of air pollution in developing nations, both to estimate human exposure and to monitor changes in air quality. In this study, we present measurements from a 5-week field experiment in Palapye, Botswana. We used a low-cost, highly portable instrument package to measure surface-based aerosol optical depth (AOD), real-time surface PM2.5 concentrations using a third-party optical sensor, and time-integrated PM2.5 concentration and composition by collecting PM2.5 onto Teflon filters. Furthermore, we employed other low-cost measurements of real-time black carbon and time-integrated ammonia to help interpret the observed PM2.5 composition and concentration information during the field experiment. We found that the average PM2.5 concentration (9.5 µg∙m−3) was below the World Health Organization (WHO) annual limit, and this concentration closely agrees with estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) report estimates for this region. Sulfate aerosol and carbonaceous aerosol, likely from coal combustion and biomass burning, respectively, were the main contributors to PM2.5 by mass (33% and 27% of total PM2.5 mass, respectively). While these observed concentrations were on average below WHO guidelines, we found that the measurement site experienced higher concentrations of aerosol during first half our measurement period (14.5 µg∙m−3), which is classified as “moderately unhealthy” according to the WHO standard.
Comparison of Assimilating All-Sky and Clear-Sky Satellite Radiance for Typhoon Chan-Hom and Nangka Forecasts
Authors: Wang Jingnan , Zhang Lifeng , Guan Jiping , Zhang Mingyang
Published: June 2020

The impacts of assimilating all-sky satellite radiance from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2) on typhoon Chan-hom and Nangka are evaluated over traditional clear-sky radiance assimilation. Results show that more AMSR2 radiance data around typhoon core area are assimilated in all-sky experiment than clear-sky, which improves the utilization of satellite radiance data. Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM) brightness temperature simulation under all-sky conditions is in better agreement with observations than in the case of clear-sky conditions. In a cycle assimilation experiment, all-sky assimilation reduces typhoon track forecast errors by 14.84%, and intensity errors by approximately 16.89%. Wind, temperature and humidity analysis are clearly improved in all-sky assimilation, as evaluated using the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis data. All-sky assimilation better captures the structures of typhoons, with a stronger warm core and tighter circulation around the typhoon eye. This study explores the contributions to the improvements in all-sky assimilation. These improvements are attributed to the enhancements in initial geopotential height, temperature and moisture in the typhoon core areas. Moreover, assimilating cloud- and precipitation-affected radiance data improves hydrometer simulations, which leads to higher hydrometeor concentrations than clear-sky radiance and conventional data assimilation. The results demonstrate that assimilation of all-sky AMSR2 data improves the analysis and forecast of multiple typhoons.
Risk Perception on Haze Pollution and Willingness to Pay for Self-Protection and Haze Management in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand
Authors: Sereenonchai Sukanya , Arunrat Noppol , Kamnoonwatana Duangporn
Published: June 2020

Air pollution is an important environmental health risk that affects people worldwide, including those in the Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand. A questionnaire survey based on accidental sampling to explore risk perception and willingness to pay (WTP) for self-protection and haze management was conducted via face-to-face interview of 250 households, in one urban and four rural areas (covering one rural plain and three different levels of highland areas). Data were analyzed using the contingent valuation method, a one-way ANOVA, correlation, and stepwise multiple linear regression. Key findings on risk perception found that urban respondents living in the lowest areas were more familiar with and experienced more effects from serious haze, while having the least trust in the local authority’s management to cope with the situation. Influential factors determining familiarity and effect for people in most areas were their harm and severe haze experiences. Comparing WTP for a mask, an air purifier, and local authorities support, respondents in all areas were mainly willing to pay for a mask; this was influenced by various factors. The highest average price of willingness to pay was found in the urban area. The important significant factors that increased WTP for self-protection of urban respondents was severe haze experience, while rural respondents who had a longer stay duration, including married farmers in highland areas with less education, tended to have less WTP for self-protection but more WTP for haze management. Avoiding crop residue burning is the first strategy that should be used to deal with haze pollution. Early burning schedules of the highland people should be formally announced, and prompt risk communication should be implemented by local and central authorities and media practitioners.
Study on the Accelerated Aging Test Method in the Development of a Self-Cleaning Topcoat for Cool Roofs
Authors: Aoyama Taizo , Sonoda Takeshi , Takebayashi Hideki
Published: June 2020

The heat island phenomenon in urban areas has become a problem in the recent years. One measure to overcome this, which has been attracting attention, is painting the cool roof with a paint that has high solar reflectance. However, the solar reflectance has been reported to decrease over time owing to staining from the paint. Our investigations reveal that a self-cleaning paint, based on an acrylic silicone polymer, is effective in maintaining a high solar reflectance and preventing dirt from adhering. These evaluations have been conducted on the cool roof of an actual building by conducting a pollution test under outdoor exposure conditions. In this study, we investigated an accelerated aging test and reported the results. ASTM D7897-15 (ASTM method) is an accelerated pollution test method for cool roofs, which has been established in the United States. In Japan, a similar accelerated pollution test method exists for antifouling civil engineering materials introduced by the Public Works Research Institute in Japan (PWRI method). The ASTM method and PWRI method were compared by conducting a stain acceleration test using a self-cleaning- and conventional-type cool-roof coating. The substitutability of the exposure test, correlation with the exposure test, performance evaluation of the paint, and the effect of the difference in the pretreatment conditions were verified. The results of these tests were reported.
Topoclimatic Zoning and Representative Areas as Determined by an Automatic Weather Station (AWS) Network in the Atacama Region, Chile
Authors: Cortez Donna , Padilla Rodrigo , Herrera Sebastián , Uribe Juan , Paneque Manuel
Published: June 2020

Climate information is crucial to the management and profitability of key development sectors involving agriculture, hydrologic resources, natural hazards, and energy. Climate knowledge, real-time weather information, and climate predictions reliability all contribute to the planning and management of socioeconomic activities and sustainable development. Automatic weather stations (AWSs) are remotely operated and facilitate the recording of meteorological information for unoccupied and out-of-reach areas. However, the representative area of the Atacama region is unknown, whose uniqueness is largely determined by the topography of the terrain. This paper describes the topoclimatic zoning of the Atacama region, based on the identification of homogeneous climatic and topographic areas, using climatic information, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis. Topoclimatic zoning was used to determine the representative area of the AWSs. Sixty-one regional topographic units were identified as equivalent to the representative area of the AWS. The directly represented area was estimated at 2365 km2 (3.13% of the regional total), the indirectly represented area was 8725 km2 (11.53%), and the unrepresented area was 64,561 km2 (85.34%). This large unrepresented area displays potential zones for future AWS installations, which can improve both the efficiency of the regional meteorological network and access to quality climate information.
Conformally Flat Siklos Metrics Are Ricci Solitons
Authors: Calvaruso Giovanni
Published: June 2020

We study and solve the Ricci soliton equation for an arbitrary locally conformally flat Siklos metric, proving that such spacetimes are always Ricci solitons.
Material-Dependent Formation and Degradation of Bone Matrix—Comparison of Two Cryogels
Authors: Weng Weidong , Häussling Victor , Aspera-Werz Romina H. , Springer Fabian , Rinderknecht Helen , Braun Bianca , Küper Markus A. , Nussler Andreas K. , Ehnert Sabrina
Published: June 2020

Cryogels represent ideal carriers for bone tissue engineering. We recently described the osteogenic potential of cryogels with different protein additives, e.g., platelet-rich plasma (PRP). However, these scaffolds raised concerns as different toxic substances are required for their preparation. Therefore, we developed another gelatin (GEL)-based cryogel. This study aimed to compare the two scaffolds regarding their physical characteristics and their influence on osteogenic and osteoclastic cells. Compared to the PRP scaffolds, GEL scaffolds had both larger pores and thicker walls, resulting in a lower connective density. PRP scaffolds, with crystalized calcium phosphates on the surface, were significantly stiffer but less mineralized than GEL scaffolds with hydroxyapatite incorporated within the matrix. The GEL scaffolds favored adherence and proliferation of the osteogenic SCP-1 and SaOS-2 cells. Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels seemed to be induced by GEL scaffolds. Levels of other osteoblast and osteoclast markers were comparable between the two scaffolds. After 14 days, mineral content and stiffness of the cryogels were increased by SCP-1 and SaOS-2 cells, especially of PRP scaffolds. THP-1 cell-derived osteoclastic cells only reduced mineral content and stiffness of PRP cryogels. In summary, both scaffolds present powerful advantages; however, the possibility to altered mineral content and stiffness may be decisive when it comes to using PRP or GEL scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
Dietary Supplementation with Omega-6 LC-PUFA-Rich Microalgae Regulates Mucosal Immune Response and Promotes Microbial Diversity in the Zebrafish Gut
Authors: Nayak Sagar , Al Ashhab Ashraf , Zilberg Dina , Khozin-Goldberg Inna
Published: June 2020

The effect of dietary omega-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) on host microbiome and gut associated immune function in fish is unexplored. The effect of dietary supplementation with the omega-6 LC-PUFA-rich microalga Lobosphaera incisa wild type (WT) and its delta-5 desaturase mutant (MUT), rich in arachidonic-acid and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), respectively, on intestinal gene expression and microbial diversity was analyzed in zebrafish. For 1 month, fish were fed diets supplemented with broken biomass at 7.5% and 15% (w/w) of the two L. incisa strains and a control nonsupplemented commercial diet. Dietary supplementation resulted in elevated expression of genes related to arachidonic acid metabolism-cyclooxygenase 2 (cox-2), lipoxygenase 1(lox-1), anti-inflammatory cytokine-interleukin 10 (il-10), immune defense-lysozyme (lys), intestinal alkaline phosphatase (iap), complement (c3b), and antioxidants-catalase (cat), glutathione peroxidase (gpx). Microbiome analysis of the gut showed higher diversity indices for microbial communities in fish that were fed the supplemented diets compared to controls. Different treatment groups shared 237 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) that corresponded to the core microbiome, and unique OTUs were evident in different dietary groups. Overall, the zebrafish gut microbiome was dominated by the phylum Fusobacteria and Proteobacteria (averaging 38.4% and 34.6%, respectively), followed by Bacteroidetes (12.9%), Tenericutes, Planctomycetes, and Actinobacteria (at 3.1–1.3%). Significant interaction between some of the immune-related genes and microbial community was demonstrated.
Expedition into Taurine Biology: Structural Insights and Therapeutic Perspective of Taurine in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Bhat Mujtaba Aamir , Ahmad Khurshid , Khan Mohd Sajjad Ahmad , Bhat Mudasir Ahmad , Almatroudi Ahmad , Rahman Safikur , Jan Arif Tasleem
Published: June 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins. The hallmarks of protein aggregation in NDs proceed with impairment in the mitochondrial function, besides causing an enhancement in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, neuroinflammation and synaptic loss. As accumulation of misfolded proteins hampers normal neuronal functions, it triggers ER stress, which leads to the activation of downstream effectors formulating events along the signaling cascade—referred to as unfolded protein response (UPRER) —thereby controlling cellular gene expression. The absence of disease-modifying therapeutic targets in different NDs, and the exponential increase in the number of cases, makes it critical to explore new approaches to treating these devastating diseases. In one such approach, osmolytes (low molecular weight substances), such as taurine have been found to promote protein folding under stress conditions, thereby averting aggregation of the misfolded proteins. Maintaining the structural integrity of the protein, taurine-mediated resumption of protein folding prompts a shift in folding homeostasis more towards functionality than towards aggregation and degradation. Together, taurine enacts protection in NDs by causing misfolded proteins to refold, so as to regain their stability and functionality. The present study provides recent and useful insights into understanding the progression of NDs, besides summarizing the genetics of NDs in correlation with mitochondrial dysfunction, ER stress, neuroinflammation and synaptic loss. It also highlights the structural and functional aspects of taurine in imparting protection against the aggregation/misfolding of proteins, thereby shifting the focus more towards the development of effective therapeutic modules that could avert the development of NDs.
A Day in the Life of the Exon Junction Complex
Authors: Schlautmann Lena P. , Gehring Niels H.
Published: June 2020

The exon junction complex (EJC) is an abundant messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) component that is assembled during splicing and binds to mRNAs upstream of exon-exon junctions. EJCs accompany the mRNA during its entire life in the nucleus and the cytoplasm and communicate the information about the splicing process and the position of introns. Specifically, the EJC’s core components and its associated proteins regulate different steps of gene expression, including pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA export, translation, and nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). This review summarizes the most important functions and main protagonists in the life of the EJC. It also provides an overview of the latest findings on the assembly, composition and molecular activities of the EJC and presents them in the chronological order, in which they play a role in the EJC’s life cycle.
Heterogeneity of Glucose Transport in Lung Cancer
Authors: Martinez Cesar A. , Scafoglio Claudio
Published: June 2020

Increased glucose uptake is a known hallmark of cancer. Cancer cells need glucose for energy production via glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and also to fuel the pentose phosphate pathway, the serine biosynthetic pathway, lipogenesis, and the hexosamine pathway. For this reason, glucose transport inhibition is an emerging new treatment for different malignancies, including lung cancer. However, studies both in animal models and in humans have shown high levels of heterogeneity in the utilization of glucose and other metabolites in cancer, unveiling a complexity that is difficult to target therapeutically. Here, we present an overview of different levels of heterogeneity in glucose uptake and utilization in lung cancer, with diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
MYB Superfamily in Brassica napus: Evidence for Hormone-Mediated Expression Profiles, Large Expansion, and Functions in Root Hair Development
Authors: Li Pengfeng , Wen Jing , Chen Ping , Guo Pengcheng , Ke Yunzhuo , Wang Mangmang , Liu Mingming , Tran Lam-Son Phan , Li Jiana , Du Hai
Published: June 2020

MYB proteins are involved in diverse important biological processes in plants. Herein, we obtained the MYB superfamily from the allotetraploid Brassica napus, which contains 227 MYB-related (BnMYBR/Bn1R-MYB), 429 R2R3-MYB (Bn2R-MYB), 22 R1R2R3-MYB (Bn3R-MYB), and two R1R2R2R1/2-MYB (Bn4R-MYB) genes. Phylogenetic analysis classified the Bn2R-MYBs into 43 subfamilies, and the BnMYBRs into five subfamilies. Sequence characteristics and exon/intron structures within each subfamily of the Bn2R-MYBs and BnMYBRs were highly conserved. The whole superfamily was unevenly distributed on 19 chromosomes and underwent unbalanced expansion in B. napus. Allopolyploidy between B. oleracea and B. rapa mainly contributed to the expansion in their descendent B. napus, in which B. rapa-derived genes were more retained. Comparative phylogenetic analysis of 2R-MYB proteins from nine Brassicaceae and seven non-Brassicaceae species identified five Brassicaceae-specific subfamilies and five subfamilies that are lacking from the examined Brassicaceae species, which provided an example for the adaptive evolution of the 2R-MYB gene family alongside angiosperm diversification. Ectopic expression of four Bn2R-MYBs under the control of the viral CaMV35S and/or native promoters could rescue the lesser root hair phenotype of the Arabidopsis thaliana wer mutant plants, proving the conserved negative roles of the 2R-MYBs of the S15 subfamily in root hair development. RNA-sequencing data revealed that the Bn2R-MYBs and BnMYBRs had diverse transcript profiles in roots in response to the treatments with various hormones. Our findings provide valuable information for further functional characterizations of B. napus MYB genes.
High-Throughput Identification of Adapters in Single-Read Sequencing Data
Authors: Mohideen Asan M.S.H. , Johansen Steinar D. , Babiak Igor
Published: June 2020

Sequencing datasets available in public repositories are already high in number, and their growth is exponential. Raw sequencing data files constitute a substantial portion of these data, and they need to be pre-processed for any downstream analyses. The removal of adapter sequences is the first essential step. Tools available for the automated detection of adapters in single-read sequencing protocol datasets have certain limitations. To explore these datasets, one needs to retrieve the information on adapter sequences from the methods sections of appropriate research articles. This can be time-consuming in metadata analyses. Moreover, not all research articles provide the information on adapter sequences. We have developed adapt_find, a tool that automates the process of adapter sequences identification in raw single-read sequencing datasets. We have verified adapt_find through testing a number of publicly available datasets. adapt_find secures a robust, reliable and high-throughput process across different sequencing technologies and various adapter designs. It does not need prior knowledge of the adapter sequences. We also produced associated tools: random_mer, for the detection of random N bases either on one or both termini of the reads, and fastqc_parser, for consolidating the results from FASTQC outputs. Together, this is a valuable tool set for metadata analyses on multiple sequencing datasets.