bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Clamping Force Using Bolt Vibration Responses during the Tightening Process
Authors: Toh Gyungmin , Gwon Jaesoo , Park Junhong
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a novel method to measure clamping force by using the vibration of bolts. The resonance frequency of the bolt increases in line with the clamping force during the tightening process. These characteristics were measured and utilized in the k-means clustering algorithm. Bolt specimens were fastened to the load cell using a nutrunner for verification of the proposed method. The precisely measured clamping force was labeled. The labeled data was used to predict the clamping force from the vibration responses. To use the proposed method in assembly of actual parts, an accelerometer was attached to the nutrunner for vibration measurements. This enabled continuous monitoring of the clamping force without influence on the parts. The estimated clamping force was compared with those from the torque method. When the vibration of a bolt was transmitted through the nutrunner, loss of high-frequency vibration energy occurred. The resonant frequency band vibrations of the bolt were preserved to determine the fastening force. The components in the low frequency band were excluded using a band-pass filter. The clamping force of the bolt used in the vehicle’s lower arm and the link was also evaluated precisely. By using the proposed method, it is possible to continuously monitor variations of the clamping force during the manufacturing process.
Study on the Improvement of a Collision Avoidance System for Curves
Authors: Lee JungEun , Kim GyoungEun , Kim ByeongWoo
Published: December 2019

Conventional autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems derive the relative distance of a curve using a curvature calculated through an in-vehicle sensor. However, as the AEB system cannot reflect geometric factors of a curve with variable curvature, it does not accurately estimate relative distances, based on which the AEB performance is evaluated. Accordingly, an AEB system reflecting the geometric information of curves needs to be considered and developed to improve the AEB performance for curves. This study proposes a method to improve the performance of AEB systems for curves through curvilinear coordinate conversion, which is used to reflect the geometric information of roads for the navigation of an autonomous vehicle. Both the host and target vehicles are located by means of curvilinear coordinate conversion. The positions thus identified are used to calculate the relative distance and lanes. Finally, the hazard risk criterion—that is, time-to-collision (TTC)—is derived using the proposed AEB system. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed AEB system, this study compares it with the conventional AEB system by analyzing the collision avoidance performance on curves through relative distances and TTC.
Aerosol from Biomass Combustion in Northern Europe: Influence of Meteorological Conditions and Air Mass History
Authors: Noda Jun , Bergström Robert , Kong Xiangrui , Gustafsson Torbjörn L. , Kovacevik Borka , Svane Maria , Pettersson Jan B. C.
Published: December 2019

Alkali-containing submicron particles were measured continuously during three months, including late winter and spring seasons in Gothenburg, Sweden. The overall aims were to characterize the ambient concentrations of combustion-related aerosol particles and to address the importance of local emissions and long-range transport for atmospheric concentrations in the urban background environment. K and Na concentrations in the particulate matter PM1 size range were measured by an Alkali aerosol mass spectrometer (Alkali-AMS) and a cluster analysis was conducted. Local meteorological conditions and trace gas and PM concentrations were also obtained for a nearby location. In addition, back trajectory analyses and chemical transport model (CTM) simulations were included for the evaluation. The Alkali-AMS cluster analysis indicated three major clusters: (1) biomass burning origin, (2) mixture of other combustion sources, and (3) marine origin. Low temperatures and low wind speed conditions correlated with high concentrations of K-containing particles, mainly owing to local and regional emissions from residential biomass combustion; transport of air masses from continental Europe also contribute to Cluster 1. The CTM results indicate that open biomass burning in the eastern parts of Europe may have contributed substantially to high PM2.5 concentrations (and to Cluster 1) during an episode in late March. According to the CTM results, the mixed cluster (2) is likely to include particles emitted from different source types and no single geographical source region seems to dominate for this cluster. The back trajectory analysis and meteorological conditions indicated that the marine origin cluster was correlated with westerly winds and high wind speed; this cluster had high concentrations of Na-containing particles, as expected for sea salt particles.
North American Winter Dipole: Observed and Simulated Changes in Circulations
Authors: Chien Yu-Tang , Wang S.-Y. Simon , Chikamoto Yoshimitsu , Voelker Steve L. , Meyer Jonathan D. D. , Yoon Jin-Ho
Published: December 2019

In recent years, a pair of large-scale circulation patterns consisting of an anomalous ridge over northwestern North America and trough over northeastern North America was found to accompany extreme winter weather events such as the 2013–2015 California drought and eastern U.S. cold outbreaks. Referred to as the North American winter dipole (NAWD), previous studies have found both a marked natural variability and a warming-induced amplification trend in the NAWD. In this study, we utilized multiple global reanalysis datasets and existing climate model simulations to examine the variability of the winter planetary wave patterns over North America and to better understand how it is likely to change in the future. We compared between pre- and post-1980 periods to identify changes to the circulation variations based on empirical analysis. It was found that the leading pattern of the winter planetary waves has changed, from the Pacific–North America (PNA) mode to a spatially shifted mode such as NAWD. Further, the potential influence of global warming on NAWD was examined using multiple climate model simulations.
Intercomparison of Multiple UV-LIF Spectrometers Using the Aerosol Challenge Simulator
Authors: Forde Elizabeth , Gallagher Martin , Walker Maurice , Foot Virginia , Attwood Alexis , Granger Gary , Sarda-Estève Roland , Stanley Warren , Kaye Paul , Topping David
Published: December 2019

Measurements of primary biological aerosol particles (PBAPs) have been conducted worldwide using ultraviolet light-induced fluorescence (UV-LIF) spectrometers. However, how these instruments detect and respond to known biological and non-biological particles, and how they compare, remains uncertain due to limited laboratory intercomparisons. Using the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Aerosol Challenge Simulator (ACS), controlled concentrations of biological and non-biological aerosol particles, singly or as mixtures, were produced for testing and intercomparison of multiple versions of the Wideband Integrated Bioaerosol Spectrometer (WIBS) and Multiparameter Bioaerosol Spectrometer (MBS). Although the results suggest some challenges in discriminating biological particle types across different versions of the same UV-LIF instrument, a difference in fluorescence intensity between the non-biological and biological samples could be identified for most instruments. While lower concentrations of fluorescent particles were detected by the MBS, the MBS demonstrates the potential to discriminate between pollen and other biological particles. This study presents the first published technical summary and use of the ACS for instrument intercomparisons. Within this work a clear overview of the data pre-processing is also presented, and documentation of instrument version/model numbers is suggested to assess potential instrument variations between different versions of the same instrument. Further laboratory studies sampling different particle types are suggested before use in quantifying impact on ambient classification.
The Influence of Subclinical Neck Pain on Neurophysiological and Behavioral Measures of Multisensory Integration
Authors: Karellas Antonia M. , Yielder Paul , Burkitt James J. , McCracken Heather S. , Murphy Bernadette A.
Published: December 2019

Multisensory integration (MSI) is necessary for the efficient execution of many everyday tasks. Alterations in sensorimotor integration (SMI) have been observed in individuals with subclinical neck pain (SCNP). Altered audiovisual MSI has previously been demonstrated in this population using performance measures, such as reaction time. However, neurophysiological techniques have not been combined with performance measures in the SCNP population to determine differences in neural processing that may contribute to these behavioral characteristics. Electroencephalography (EEG) event-related potentials (ERPs) have been successfully used in recent MSI studies to show differences in neural processing between different clinical populations. This study combined behavioral and ERP measures to characterize MSI differences between healthy and SCNP groups. EEG was recorded as 24 participants performed 8 blocks of a simple reaction time (RT) MSI task, with each block consisting of 34 auditory (A), visual (V), and audiovisual (AV) trials. Participants responded to the stimuli by pressing a response key. Both groups responded fastest to the AV condition. The healthy group demonstrated significantly faster RTs for the AV and V conditions. There were significant group differences in neural activity from 100–140 ms post-stimulus onset, with the control group demonstrating greater MSI. Differences in brain activity and RT between individuals with SCNP and a control group indicate neurophysiological alterations in how individuals with SCNP process audiovisual stimuli. This suggests that SCNP alters MSI. This study presents novel EEG findings that demonstrate MSI differences in a group of individuals with SCNP.
The Role of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Pituitary Adenomas Tumorigenesis
Authors: Shah Sumedh S. , Aghi Manish K.
Published: December 2019

Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are among the most common intracranial neoplasms, but despite their histologically benign nature, these tumors sometimes grow large enough to cause symptoms of mass effect such as vision loss, headaches, or hypopituitarism. When they get this large, surgery will unfortunately not be curative and, other than prolactinomas, medical options are limited, and radiation has variable efficacy in controlling growth. Understanding the genetic perturbations, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that promote the formation or growth of functional and nonfunctional PAs is important because such genetic insights could improve the diagnosis and subsequent classification of PAs as well as unlock potential therapeutic targets outside contemporary standard of care. While there have been great strides in the research of SNPs as drivers of PA formation and maintenance, a comprehensive discussion of these genetic mutations has not been undertaken. In the present article, and with the goal of providing scientists and clinicians a central review, we sought to summarize the current literature on SNPs and their relationship to PA formation. Across multiple tumor types, such as nonfunctioning PAs, prolactinomas, corticotroph adenomas, somatotroph adenomas, thyrotropic adenomas, and gonadotroph adenomas, SNPs in cell surface receptors implicated in proliferation can be appreciated. Polymorphisms found in tumor suppressors and cell cycle regulators have also been identified, such as p53 SNPs in nonfunctioning PAs or cyclin D1 in prolactinomas. While the translational relevance of SNPs in the formation of PAs is still in the early stages, the use of wide-scale genomic analysis to identify patients at risk for developing PAs could yield therapeutic benefit in the future.
NLRP3 Inflammasome and Mineralocorticoid Receptors Are Associated with Vascular Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ferreira Nathanne Santos , Bruder-Nascimento Thiago , Pereira Camila André , Zanotto Camila Zillioto , Prado Douglas Silva , Silva Josiane Fernandes , Rassi Diane Meyre , Foss-Freitas Maria Cristina , Alves-Filho Jose Carlos , Carlos Daniela , Tostes Rita de Cássia
Published: December 2019

Aldosterone excess aggravates endothelial dysfunction in diabetes and hypertension by promoting the increased generation of reactive oxygen species, inflammation, and insulin resistance. Aldosterone activates the molecular platform inflammasome in immune system cells and contributes to vascular dysfunction induced by the mineralocorticoid hormone. It is unclear as to whether the NLRP3 inflammasome associated with the mineralocorticoid receptor contributes to vascular dysfunction in diabetic conditions. Here, we tested the hypothesis that an excess of aldosterone induces vascular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes, via the activation of mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Mesenteric resistance arteries from control (db/m) and diabetic (db/db) mice treated with vehicle, spironolactone (MR antagonist) or an NLRP3 selective inhibitor (MCC950) were used to determine whether NLRP3 contributes to diabetes-associated vascular dysfunction. Db/db mice exhibited increased vascular expression/activation of caspase-1 and IL-1β, increased plasma IL-1β levels, active caspase-1 in peritoneal macrophages, and reduced acetylcholine (ACh) vasodilation, compared to db/m mice. Treatment of db/db mice with spironolactone and MCC950 decreased plasma IL-1β and partly restored ACh vasodilation. Spironolactone also reduced active caspase-1-positive macrophages in db/db mice, events that contribute to diabetes-associated vascular changes. These data clearly indicate that MR and NLRP3 activation contribute to diabetes-associated vascular dysfunction and pro-inflammatory phenotype.
Indigenous Knowledge and Farmer Perceptions of Climate and Ecological Changes in the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon: Insights from the Bui Plateau
Authors: Tume Suiven John Paul , Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon , Fogwe Zephania Nji
Published: December 2019

Anticipating seasonal and shorter time scale dynamics to farming practices is primordial for indigenous farmers’ resilience under extreme environmental conditions, where climate change is a menace to agro-hydro-ecological systems. This paper assesses the effectiveness of indigenous farmers’ knowledge and aptitude to read weather signs for informed decisions on their daily and seasonal activities. Such climate-proof development is anchored on indigenous people’s knowledge and perceptions in circumstances where the dearth of scientific evidence or information exists as in Cameroon. The study is based on eight focus group discussions and a survey of 597 farming households in seven agro-ecological basins on the Bui Plateau of the Bamenda Highlands. The results indicate that indigenous smallholder farmers value their ability to accurately observe and anticipate local conditions in various ways to serve their local realities more aptly than outside forecasts. Such local knowledge should thus exercise a complementary role weave in a local climate information understanding system that replicates ecological variability.
Cold Sprayed Tungsten Armor for Tokamak First Wall
Authors: Cizek Jan , Vilemova Monika , Lukac Frantisek , Koller Martin , Kondas Jan , Singh Reeti
Published: December 2019

Harnessing nuclear fusion is a challenging task, in particular because of the demands put on the used materials. In tokamaks, future energy sources, the inner-most chambers are to be coated with dense coatings of W, or W-Cr-based alloys. So far, the attempts for such coatings formation by other methods failed due to oxidation, high porosity, insufficient adhesion, high specific surface, or even insufficient thickness below 10 μ m. Cold spraying seems a promising technology for the task. In our study, we demonstrate the first successful fabrication of thick pure W coatings. W-Cr and W-Cr-Ti coatings were further prepared without oxidation of the metals. All coatings exhibited high hardness levels, good interface quality with three tested substrates and, importantly, a promising potential for formation of stable Cr 2 WO x phases.
Inertial Micromixing in Curved Serpentine Micromixers with Different Curve Angles
Authors: Alijani Hossein , Özbey Arzu , Karimzadehkhouei Mehrdad , Koşar Ali
Published: December 2019

Micromixers are of considerable significance in many microfluidics system applications, from chemical reactions to biological analysis processes. Passive micromixers, which rely solely on their geometry, have the advantages of low cost and a less-complex fabrication process. Dean vortices seen in curved microchannels are one of the useful tools to enhance micromixing. In this study, the effects of curve angle on micromixing were experimentally investigated in three curved serpentine micromixers consisting of ten segments with curve angles of 180 ° , 230 ° and 280 ° , at Dean numbers between 12 and 87. To characterize and compare the performance of the micromixers, fluorescence intensity maps and mixing indices were utilized. Accordingly, the micromixer having segments with 280 ° curve angle had significantly higher mixing index values up to the Dean number 60 and outperformed the other two micromixers. This was due to the severe distortion of flow streamlines by Dean vortices and the occurrence of chaotic advection at lower Dean numbers. Beyond the Dean number of 70, no difference was observed in the performance of the micromixers and the mixing index at their outlets had the asymptotic value of 0.93 ± 0.02. Furthermore, the flow behavior of the micromixers was numerically simulated to provide further insight about the mixing phenomena.
An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses on Acupuncture for Post-Acute Stroke Dysphagia
Authors: Tian Zi-Yu , Liao Xing , Gao Ying , Liang Shi-Bing , Zhang Chong-Yang , Xu De-Hao , Liu Jian-Ping , Robinson Nicola
Published: December 2019

Background: Many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews (SRs) on acupuncture treatment for post-acute stroke dysphagia have been published. Conflicting results from different SRs necessitated an overview to summarize and assess the quality of this evidence to determine whether acupuncture is effective for this condition. The aim was to evaluate methodological quality and summarizing the evidence for important outcomes. Methods: Seven databases were searched for SRs and/or meta-analysis of RCTs and quasi-RCTs on acupuncture for post-acute stroke dysphagia. Two authors independently identified SRs and meta-analyses, collected data to assess the quality of included SRs and meta analyses according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and the revised Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2). Results: Searches yielded 382 SRs, 31 were included. The quality of 22 SRs was critically low, five SRs were low, and four Cochrane SRs were moderate when evaluated by AMSTAR2. A total of 17 SRs reported 85.2–96.3% of PRISMA items. Five SRs included explanatory RCTs, 16 SRs included pragmatic RCTs, and 10 SRs included both. Conclusion: Currently, evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture on post-acute stroke dysphagia is of a low quality. The type of study appeared to have no direct influence on the result, but the primary outcome measures showed a relationship with the quality of SRs. High quality trials with large sample sizes should be the focus of future research.
Model Ensembles of Artificial Neural Networks and Support Vector Regression for Improved Accuracy in the Prediction of Vegetation Conditions and Droughts in Four Northern Kenya Counties
Authors: Adede Chrisgone , Oboko Robert , Wagacha Peter W. , Atzberger Clement
Published: December 2019

For improved drought planning and response, there is an increasing need for highly predictive and stable drought prediction models. This paper presents the performance of both homogeneous and heterogeneous model ensembles in the satellite-based prediction of drought severity using artificial neural networks (ANN) and support vector regression (SVR). For each of the homogeneous and heterogeneous model ensembles, the study investigates the performance of three model ensembling approaches: (1) non-weighted linear averaging, (2) ranked weighted averaging, and (3) model stacking using artificial neural networks. Using the approach of “over-produce then select”, the study used 17 years of satellite data on 16 selected variables for predictive drought monitoring to build 244 individual ANN and SVR models from which 111 models were automatically selected for the building of the model ensembles. Model stacking is shown to realize models that are superior in performance in the prediction of future drought conditions as compared to the linear averaging and weighted averaging approaches. The best performance from the heterogeneous stacked model ensembles recorded an R2 of 0.94 in the prediction of future (1 month ahead) vegetation conditions on unseen test data (2016–2017) as compared to an R2 of 0.83 and R2 of 0.78 for ANN and SVR, respectively, in the traditional approach of selection of the best (champion) model. We conclude that despite the computational resource intensiveness of the model ensembling approach, the returns in terms of model performance for drought prediction are worth the investment, especially in the context of the continued exponential increase in computational power and the potential benefits of improved forecasting for vulnerable populations.
Characterization of Dendrolimus houi Lajonquiere (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) Transcriptome across All Life Stages
Authors: Han Xiaohong , Lu Ciding , Geib Scott M. , Zheng Junxian , Wu Songqing , Zhang Feiping , Liang Guanghong
Published: December 2019

Dendrolimus houi Lajonquiere is a phytophagous caterpillar infesting many economically important coniferous tree species in China, causing serious economic and ecological environment losses. Based on previous research, it has one generation per year in South China and East China in contrast to two generations per year in Yunnan province in southwestern China. The species is potentially resilient to climatic extremes in these regions with the eggs and 1st instar larvae surviving in the winter (5 °C), older instar larvae and pupae surviving high temperatures in the summer (35 °C), suggesting some temperature stress tolerance during different developmental stages. However, little is known in this species at the genetic and genomic level. In this study, we used high throughput sequencing to obtain transcriptome data from different developmental stages (eggs, 1st–3rd instar larvae, 4th–5th instar larvae, 6th–7th instar larvae, pupae, male and female adults), which were collected from Fujian province. In total, we obtained approximately 90 Gb of data, from which 33,720 unigenes were assembled and 17,797 unigenes were annotated. We furtherly analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DGEs) across all stages, the largest number between the eggs and 1st instar larvae stage and gene expression varied significantly in different developmental stages. Furthermore, 4138 SSR genes and 114,977 SNP loci were screened from transcriptome data. This paper will be a foundation for further study towards improved integrated pest management strategies for this species.
Management of Acute Severe Colitis in the Era of Biologicals and Small Molecules
Authors: Verdon Christine , Bessissow Talat , Lakatos Peter L.
Published: December 2019

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a medical emergency which occurs in about 20%–30% of patients with ulcerative colitis during their lifetime, and does carry a mortality risk of 1%. The management of inflammatory bowel diseases has evolved with changes in objective patient monitoring, as well as the availability of new treatment options with the development of new biological and small molecules; however, data is limited regarding their use in the context of ASUC. This review aims to discuss the emerging data regarding biologicals and small molecules therapies in the context of ASUC.
Generalized Abel-Grassmann’s Neutrosophic Extended Triplet Loop
Authors: An Xiaogang , Zhang Xiaohong , Ma Yingcang
Published: December 2019

A group is an algebraic system that characterizes symmetry. As a generalization of the concept of a group, semigroups and various non-associative groupoids can be considered as algebraic abstractions of generalized symmetry. In this paper, the notion of generalized Abel-Grassmann’s neutrosophic extended triplet loop (GAG-NET-Loop) is proposed and some properties are discussed. In particular, the following conclusions are strictly proved: (1) an algebraic system is an AG-NET-Loop if and only if it is a strong inverse AG-groupoid; (2) an algebraic system is a GAG-NET-Loop if and only if it is a quasi strong inverse AG-groupoid; (3) an algebraic system is a weak commutative GAG-NET-Loop if and only if it is a quasi Clifford AG-groupoid; and (4) a finite interlaced AG-(l,l)-Loop is a strong AG-(l,l)-Loop.
A New Approach to Solving Stochastic Optimal Control Problems
Authors: Rodriguez-Gonzalez Pablo T. , Rico-Ramirez Vicente , Rico-Martinez Ramiro , Diwekar Urmila M.
Published: December 2019

A conventional approach to solving stochastic optimal control problems with time-dependent uncertainties involves the use of the stochastic maximum principle (SMP) technique. For large-scale problems, however, such an algorithm frequently leads to convergence complexities when solving the two-point boundary value problem resulting from the optimality conditions. An alternative approach consists of using continuous random variables to capture uncertainty through sampling-based methods embedded within an optimization strategy for the decision variables; such a technique may also fail due to the computational intensity involved in excessive model calculations for evaluating the objective function and its derivatives for each sample. This paper presents a new approach to solving stochastic optimal control problems with time-dependent uncertainties based on BONUS (Better Optimization algorithm for Nonlinear Uncertain Systems). The BONUS has been used successfully for non-linear programming problems with static uncertainties, but we show here that its scope can be extended to the case of optimal control problems with time-dependent uncertainties. A batch reactor for biodiesel production was used as a case study to illustrate the proposed approach. Results for a maximum profit problem indicate that the optimal objective function and the optimal profiles were better than those obtained by the maximum principle.
Plasma Homocysteine and Polymorphisms of Genes Involved in Folate Metabolism Correlate with DNMT1 Gene Methylation Levels
Authors: Coppedè Fabio , Stoccoro Andrea , Tannorella Pierpaola , Migliore Lucia
Published: December 2019

DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) is responsible for the maintenance of DNA methylation patterns during cell division. Several human diseases are characterized by impaired DNMT1 gene methylation, but less is known about the factors that regulate DNMT1 promoter methylation levels. Dietary folates and related B-vitamins are essential micronutrients for DNA methylation processes, and we performed the present study to investigate the contribution of circulating folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and common polymorphisms in folate pathway genes to the DNMT1 gene methylation levels. We investigated DNMT1 gene methylation levels in peripheral blood DNA samples from 215 healthy individuals. All the DNA samples were genotyped for MTHFR 677C > T (rs1801133) and 1298A > C (rs1801131), MTRR 66A > G (rs1801394), MTR 2756A > G (rs1805087), SLC19A1 (RFC1) 80G > A (rs1051266), TYMS 28-bp tandem repeats (rs34743033) and 1494 6-bp insertion/deletion (indel) (rs34489327), DNMT3A -448A > G (rs1550117), and DNMT3B -149C > T (rs2424913) polymorphisms. Circulating homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels were available from 158 of the recruited individuals. We observed an inverse correlation between plasma homocysteine and DNMT1 methylation levels. Furthermore, both MTR rs1805087 and TYMS rs34743033 polymorphisms showed a statistically significant effect on DNMT1 methylation levels. The present study revealed several correlations between the folate metabolic pathway and DNMT1 promoter methylation that could be of relevance for those disorders characterized by altered DNA methylation.
Acupuncture on ST36, CV4 and KI1 Suppresses the Progression of Methionine- and Choline-Deficient Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice
Authors: Meng Xiangjin , Guo Xin , Zhang Jing , Moriya Junji , Kobayashi Junji , Yamaguchi Reimon , Yamada Sohsuke
Published: December 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide, and its treatment remain a constant challenge. A number of clinical trials have shown that acupuncture treatment has beneficial effects for patients with NAFLD, but the molecular mechanisms underlying its action are still largely unknown. In this study, we established a mouse model of NAFLD by administering a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet and selected three acupoints (ST36, CV4, and KI1) or nonacupoints (sham) for needling. We then investigated the effects of acupuncture treatment on the progression of NAFLD and the underlying mechanisms. After two weeks of acupuncture treatment, the liver in the needling-nonapcupoint group (NG) mice appeared pale and yellowish in color, while that in the needling-acupoint group (AG) showed a bright red color. Histologically, fewer lipid droplets and inflammatory foci were observed in the AG liver than in the NG liver. Furthermore, the expression of proinflammatory signaling factors was significantly downregulated in the AG liver. A lipid analysis showed that the levels of triglyceride (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) were lower in the AG liver than in the NG liver, with an altered expression of lipid metabolism-related factors as well. Moreover, the numbers of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)-positive hepatocytes and levels of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were significantly lower in AG mice than in NG mice. In line with these results, a higher expressions of antioxidant factors was found in the AG liver than in the NG liver. Our results indicate that acupuncture repressed the progression of NAFLD by inhibiting inflammatory reactions, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting lipid metabolism of hepatocytes, suggesting that this approach might be an important complementary treatment for NAFLD.
Aperture Ratio Improvement by Optimizing the Voltage Slope and Reverse Pulse in the Driving Waveform for Electrowetting Displays
Authors: Yi Zichuan , Feng Wenyong , Wang Li , Liu Liming , Lin Yue , He Wenyao , Shui Lingling , Zhang Chongfu , Zhang Zhi , Zhou Guofu
Published: December 2019

Electrowetting display (EWD) performance is severely affected by ink distribution and charge trapping in pixel cells. Therefore, a multi structural driving waveform is proposed for improving the aperture ratio of EWDs. In this paper, the hysteresis characteristic (capacitance–voltage, C-V) curve of the EWD pixel is tested and analyzed for obtaining the driving voltage value at the inflection point of the driving waveform. In the composition of driving waveform, a voltage slope is designed for preventing ink dispersion and a reverse pulse is designed for releasing the trapped charge which is caused by hysteresis characteristic. Finally, the frequency and the duty cycle of the driving waveform are optimized for the max aperture ratio by a series of testing. The experimental results show that the proposed driving waveform can improve the ink dispersion behavior, and the aperture ratio of the EWD is about 8% higher than the conventional driving waveform. At the same time, the response speed of the driving waveform can satisfy the dynamic display in EWDs, which provides a new idea for the design of the EWD driving scheme.
Aromatic SNF-Approach to Fluorinated Phenyl tert-Butyl Nitroxides
Authors: Tretyakov Evgeny , Fedyushin Pavel , Panteleeva Elena , Gurskaya Larisa , Rybalova Tatyana , Bogomyakov Artem , Zaytseva Elena , Kazantsev Maxim , Shundrina Inna , Ovcharenko Victor
Published: December 2019

The interaction of octafluorotoluene (1a), as well as pentafluorobenzonitrile (1b) with tert-butylamine, followed by the oxidation of thus formed tert-butylanilines (2a,b) with meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid led to functionalized perfluorinated phenyl tert-butyl nitroxides [namely, 4-(N-tert-butyl(oxyl)amino)heptafluorotoluene (3a) and 4-(N-tert-butyl(oxyl)amino)tetrafluorobenzonitrile (3b)] with nearly quantitative total yields. The molecular and crystal structures of nitroxide 3a were proved by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The radical nature of both nitroxides was confirmed by ESR data. The interaction of Cu(hfac)2 with the obtained nitroxides 3a,b gave corresponding trans-bis(1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoropentane-2,4-dionato-κ2O,O′)bis{4-(N-tert-butyl(oxyl)amino)perfluoroarene-κO}copper (II) complexes ([Cu(hfac)2(3a)2] and [Cu(hfac)2(3b)2]). X-ray crystal structure analysis showed square bipyramid coordination of a centrally symmetric Cu polyhedron with the axial positions occupied by oxygen atoms of the nitroxide groups. Magnetic measurements revealed intramolecular ferromagnetic exchange interactions between unpaired electrons of Cu(II) ions and paramagnetic ligands, with exchange interaction parameters JCu–R reaching 53 cm−1.
Amino Acid Profile of Fruits as Potential Fingerprints of Varietal Origin
Authors: Botoran Oana Romina , Ionete Roxana Elena , Miricioiu Marius Gheorghe , Costinel Diana , Radu Gabriel Lucian , Popescu Raluca
Published: December 2019

This study aims to assess the capability of the 1H-NMR profiling of fruits from different genera in combination with multivariate data analysis to provide feasible information for fruit juices’ authenticity in terms of botanical origin. Nine fruit varieties from four genera were selected for the experimental plan. The juice obtained from the fruits was characterized using the 1H-NMR technique, selecting the obtained amino acid profile of fruits as a potential specific fingerprint. Due to the complex information provided by the NMR spectra, a chemometric approach of the data was further applied to enable the differentiation of the fruit samples, highlighting thus its suitability as a discrimination tool for the varietal origin. The advantage of this analytical approach is given by the relatively simple working procedure, which consists of an easy, fast, and accessible preparation stage while providing complex information on fruit composition.
Effect of High-Pressure Processing (HPP) on the Fatty Acid Profile of Different Sized Ragworms (Hediste diversicolor) Cultured in an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) System
Authors: Marques Bruna , Lillebø Ana Isabel , Domingues Maria do Rosário M. , Saraiva Jorge A. , Calado Ricardo
Published: December 2019

Ragworms (Hediste diversicolor) cultured under integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) conditions display an improved fatty acids (FA) profile than conspecifics from the wild, thus being more suitable for maturation diets of marine fish and shrimp. Nonetheless, their use may represent a potential pathway for pathogens. The objective of the present study was to determine if high-pressure processing (HPP), as an approach to safeguard microbiological safety, could promote significant shifts on the FA profiles of different sized ragworms. An analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) revealed the existence of significant differences in the FA profile and lipid quality indexes (atherogenicity (AI), thrombogenicity (TI) and polyene (PI)) of control and HPP treated ragworms of all tested sizes (small, medium and large). Saturated (SFA) and monounsaturated FA (MUFA) increased after HPP, while polyunsaturated FA (PUFA; FA with 2 or 3 double bonds) and highly unsaturated FA (HUFA; FA with ≥ 4 double bonds) decreased. The amount of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in polychaetes exposed to HPP decreased an average of 25%, when compared with the levels recorded in control groups. The values of PI significantly decreased after HPP, while those of AI and TI displayed a significant increase. Despite the shifts in the FA profile of ragworms exposed to HPP, these still display a superior profile to that of wild specimens, namely the presence of DHA. Therefore, HPP can be considered as a suitable approach to safeguard the biosecurity of cultured polychaetes, without compromising their nutritional value, and support the principles of circular economy through the use of IMTA.
Controllable Synthesis of All Inorganic Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals with Various Appearances in Multiligand Reaction System
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Louwen , Shi Tielin , Liao Guanglan , Tang Zirong
Published: December 2019

All inorganic cesium lead halide (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) exhibit promising applications in light-emitting devices due to their excellent photophysical properties. Herein, we developed a low-cost and convenient method for the preparation of CsPbX3 PNCs in a multiligand-assisted reaction system where peanut oil is applied as a ligand source. The mixed-halide PNCs with tunable optical-band gap were prepared by mixing the single-halide perovskite solutions at room temperature. The resulting PNCs had good monodispersity, with dimensions of 8–10 nm, high photoluminescence quantum yield (96.9%), narrow emission widths (15–34 nm), and tunable emission wavelength (408–694 nm), covering the entire visible spectrum. Additionally, various morphologies of PNCs, such as nanospheres, nanocubes, and nanowires, were obtained by controlling reaction temperature and time, and the amount of oleamine with multiple ligands in peanut oil potentially playing a dominant role in the nucleation/growth processes of our PNCs. Finally, the resulting CsPbBr3 PNCs were employed to develop a white light-emitting diode (WLED), demonstrating the potential lighting applications for our method.
Smart Cities—A View of Societal Aspects
Authors: Baltac Vasile
Published: December 2019

Smart city projects are considered real challenges to the development of cities everywhere. The concept itself has many definitions, but a smart city should be defined less based on implemented IT solutions, and more based on optimization of its basic functions using new technologies. There are societal aspects of smart city implementations, similar to eGovernment early projects, and aspects of the use of digital technology that raise concerns. In most cities, the digital divide is still a problem. Smart city projects are the result of the fourth industrial revolution, but cities still lack a full implementation of solutions derived from previous industrial revolutions. Despite that, cities report a lot of smart city projects. Money still gets spent, as being a smart city is, in many cases, an artificial priority and a fashionable topic. Moreover, non-Internet technologies and their relations to a good smart city solution are also not considered. Digital divide bridging is one requirement for a full implementation of a smart city concept. A review of acceleration and deceleration factors shows the obstacles faced by smart city projects. Rankings of cities based on several smart city criteria are published frequently. Various approaches lead to contradictory rankings. A new set of comprehensive rankings developed by an international organization and based on reputable reports and statistics would be useful. The study is based on several smart city and eGovernment projects in Romania.
Toxic effects of cutaneous and oral exposure to aluminum and magnesium nanoparticles on brain tissue in rats
Authors: ARSLANBAŞ Emre , COŞAR Zekeriya
Published: December 2019

In
this study, it was aimed to research the effects of cutaneous and oral
exposure to aluminum nanoparticles (Al-NPs) and magnesium nanoparticles
(Mg-NPs) on the brain tissue, which is vitally important in terms of its
structure and functions. The study was performed on Wister-Albino rats, which
were divided into 10 groups, such as control groups (groups 1 and 2),
groups, to which Al and Mg NPs were applied as 500 mg/kg and 1500 mg/kg orally
(groups 3-6) and 1000 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg cutaneously (groups 7-10). The dosages
were administered as a single dose. While brain tissue and serum MDA levels as
well as brain tissue TNF-α and IL-6 levels have significantly increased in the
group, to which 1500 mg/kg Mg-NPs was applied orally, significant decreases
have also been observed in brain tissue GPX and SOD levels of the same group. Additionally,
meaningful decreases in brain tissue SOD levels and significant increases in
TNF-α and IL-6 levels have been observed in the group, to which 1500 mg/kg
Al-NP was applied orally. On the other hand, it was found that brain tissue GPX
and SOD levels of the group, to which 2000 mg/kg Mg-NP was applied cutaneous,
have been decreased significantly. Histopathological examinations have also
supported these findings. At the end of the study, it was observed that the toxic
effect of Al and Mg NPs has varied, depending on the application method, dosage
and duration.
Vascular endothelial growth factor and epithelial cell adhesion molecule immunoexpression in enzootic nasal adenocarcinoma of goats
Authors: ÖZMEN Özlem , SERPİN Nilay
Published: December 2019

Enzootic nasal adenocarcinoma (ENA) is a contagious and viral disease in sheep and goats. The disease leads to the death of the affected animals and causes economic losses in infected small ruminant flocks. Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a newly discovered tumor antigen, commonly expressed by several tumors occurring in humans. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a signal protein produced by cells that stimulate the formation of blood vessels and plays an important role in angiogenesis, essential for tumor development. In this study, ENA originating from the nasal mucosa is detected on histopathological and cytopathological examinations, with transmission electron microscopy confirming viral particles in the tumoral cells. The aim of this study was to examine VEGF and EpCAM immunoexpressions using streptavidin–biotin complex immunoperoxidase technique in 24 naturally ENA-affected goats. Sneezing, dyspnea, seromucous or purulent nasal discharge, exophthalmos, and weight loss were commonly observed clinical symptoms. The tumors located in the nasal cavity were generally unilateral and were bilateral in only two cases. Cytological examination of the tumoral masses revealed uniform epithelial cell clusters and abundant inflammatory reaction. On histopathological examination, tubular, papillary, or mixed types of ENA were diagnosed. On ultrastructural examination, intracytoplasmic, spherical, retrovirus-like particles were demonstrated. Immunohistochemically, strong positive reactions were reported for both EpCAM and VEGF in the cytoplasm of the tumor cells. Thus, this study showed that EpCAM and VEGF may have an important role in ENA pathogenesis.
The evaluation of the oxidative stress index of reproductive tissues and serum thiol/disulphide homeostasis during estrous cycle in bitches
Authors: BAKİ ACAR Duygu , DEMİREL Mürşide Ayşe , DİZAKAR AKARCA Saadet Özen , BİRDANE Muhammed Kürşad
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was firstly to determine the relationship between estrous cycle and oxidative stress in reproductive tissues in bitches. This research was performed in twenty-nine healthy bitches from different breeds and of varied ages (the range was 2-5 years) that were brought to the clinic for routine ovariohysterectomy. The stages of estrous cycle were detected using by vaginal cytology, blood progesterone level and histological findings. Ovarian, oviduct and uterine tissues were taken into Eppendorf tubes for oxidative stress index and stored at -80°C until analyses. Also, another part of these tissues were fixed in 10% formalin solution. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) among total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) values in the reproductive tissues in concerning estrous cycle stages. However, there were remarkable correlations between oxidative stress parameters and reproductive tissues in different estrus stages in bitches. In conclusion, the physiological values of TAS and TOS concentration, and OSI in the ovarian, oviduct and uterine tissues during estrous cycle were firstly defined in this article. The serum thiol/disulphide homeostasis was also determined in the estrous cycle of bitches. We have found that there are remarkable variations of oxidative stress balance in the ovary, oviduct and uterus concurrently, during estrous cycle in the bitches. Besides, significant correlations between oxidative stress parameters and estrous cycle stages in the reproductive tissues were observed in the present study.
ADECUACIÓN DEL REGLAMENTO ESPECÍFICO DEL SISTEMA DE ADMINISTRACIÓN DE BIENES Y SERVICIOS RE-SABS PARA EL GOBIERNO AUTÓNOMO MUNICIPAL DE OMEREQUE
Authors: Zenteno Anturiano Norma María
Published: December 2019

La presente investigación fue realizada en el Gobierno Autónomo Municipal de Omereque (GAMO), éste presenta dificultades de tipo administrativo-financiero, debido a que los servidores públicos no tienen la experiencia y conocimiento suficiente en la aplicación de las disposiciones de administración y contratación de bienes y servicios, también manifiesta infracción a la normativa NB-SABS y la Ley 1.178. El objetivo de este estudio fue proponer la adecuación de un reglamento específico en el sistema de administración de bienes y servicios para el GAMO, con base en el modelo dispuesto por el órgano rector, un manual de procedimientos para los procesos de contratación y un programa de capacitación para su aplicación, con características y procedimientos específicos que se adecuen a la situación actual del municipio, que evite las responsabilidades estipuladas en la Ley 1.178 y sus decretos supremos reglamentarios. El tipo de estudio fue descriptivo y explicativo. La población de estudio fue de 35 servidores públicos del municipio y la muestra 4 de ellos del área de administrativa-financiera.
ASPECTOS IMPORTANTES PARA LA CREACIÓN DE UNA EMPRESA DE PRODUCCIÓN Y COMERCIALIZACIÓN DE UVA DE MESA EN LA COMUNIDAD DE TÁRCANA EN BOLIVIA
Authors: Aramayo Escalante Freddy
Published: December 2019

A partir de la investigación Proyecto de inversión para la creación de una empresa de producción y comercialización de uva de mesa en la comunidad de Tárcana, provincia Sud Cinti del departamento de Chuquisaca, realizada por el articulista, se plantea el presente estudio cuyo objetivo es poner en marcha la elaboración de un proyecto de inversión para lograr 10 hectáreas de uva de mesa de las variedades Flame y Sugraone en la comunidad de Tárcana. El estudio de mercado ayudó a determinar la cantidad que sería conveniente producir para hacer frente a los precios de la competencia, el diagnóstico que permite analizar los factores físicos de producción del lugar donde se quiere producir y el análisis financiero correspondiente. Según los resultados obtenidos, se puede concluir que es factible la creación de una empresa de producción de uva de mesa en la comunidad de Tárcana, para que sirva como referencia a los interesados en el tema.