bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ANFIS‐based model for solar energy forecasting and its smart grid application
Authors: Perveen Gulnar , Rizwan Mohammad , Goel Nidhi
Published: December 2019

In the present work, a model underlying the principle of adaptive neural‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) architecture is proposed. This research investigates the ANFIS‐based model performance to forecast global solar energy under different weather conditions, namely, clear sky, hazy sky, hazy and cloudy sky, and cloudy sky; and for distinct climate zones using salient meteorological parameters. Power generation from solar photovoltaic (PV) may be affected by different factors, such as cloud cover, topographical locations, time, and seasonal variations. Therefore, accurate forecasting of PV power is an important factor for system reliability and robustness. In this work, the proposed model is implemented for smart grid applications in forecasting short‐term PV power in a composite climate zone. Finally, the accuracy of the model is compared with other approaches, namely, support vector machine, feedforward neural network, multivariate adaptive regression splines, generalized regression neural network, linear neural network, fuzzy logic‐based model, and empirical models based on multiple regression analysis using statistical performance indicators. The overall analysis reveals that the ANFIS‐based model outperforms the other models in terms of accuracy.
Reconfigurable oscillating active integrated antenna using two‐element patch array for beam switching applications
Authors: Singh Rajesh K. , Basu Ananjan , Koul Shiban K.
Published: December 2019

An oscillating active integrated antenna (AIA) with a switchable pattern among sum or difference is reported here. The AIA design consists of a passive feedback network and an active device. A two‐port, two‐element patch array coupled electromagnetically through T‐shaped microstrip lines is integrated into the feedback path of the oscillator circuit. This two‐port network acts as a radiator and frequency‐selective network for the oscillator circuit. The proposed AIA can switch in two different radiation pattern states by using p‐i‐n diodes. In the difference pattern, oscillating AIA has a measured null depth of −19.86 dB from the peak. The measured phase noise for both patterns is better than −105.1 dBc/Hz at a 1‐MHz offset from the oscillation frequencies. The dc‐to‐RF efficiencies for both pattern states are better than 20%. The proposed design is suitable to cover the space in a more efficient manner by generating the pattern among broadside or conical.
Trend analysis of medical expenses in Shenzhen after China's new health‐care reforms
Authors: Liu Xueyan , Zhang Qilin , Xu Yong , Wu Xiaoyun , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: December 2019

Since China initiated new health‐care reforms in early 2009, a variety of measures have been implemented to slow the growth of medical expenses. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of controlling medical expenses. Based on inpatients' medical expenses at the largest tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, China, from 2009 to 2017, this study analyzed the changes in medical expenses and expense structures according to payment sources (insured or self‐financed), stratifying the medical expenses according to the ICD‐10 classification chapters of the principal diagnoses of the inpatients in two years (2009 and 2017) in order to control for confounding diseases. The results showed that mean inpatient expenses continued to rise from 2009 to 2017, and the expenses of the self‐financed group began to exceed those of the insured group after 2011. Drug and consumable expenses were still the main factors that affected inpatient expenses, and consumable expenses remarkably increased, becoming the highest proportion of expenses. New health‐care reforms were effective in controlling growing medical expenses for insured patients but did not make a significant difference in the expenses of self‐financed patients. The excessive use of consumables has become a new driver of growing medical expenses.
An Alternative Version of Purchasing Power Parity
Authors: Afat Dinçer , Frömmel Michael
Published: December 2019

A vast literature on Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) has evolved and PPP has become the most popular concept in international finance. PPP is applied with various price indices such as consumer price index, wholesale price index, etc. In this article, we introduce a revised version of PPP equation for financial products, which is strongly supported by our panel data analysis.
A Validation of Cluster Modeling in the Description of Matrix Isolation Spectroscopy
Authors: Bader Frederik , Lindic Tilen , Paulus Beate
Published: December 2019

Matrix isolation is a fundamental tool for the synthesis and characterization of highly reactive novel species and investigation of unusual bonding situations. Ab initio descriptions of guest–host interactions in matrix isolation are highly demanding, as the weak interactions between guest and host can influence the former's oftentimes challenging electronic structure. In this study, the matrix effects on a single CO2 molecule in an argon matrix were investigated with dispersion‐corrected density functional theory calculations. Three different guest–host structures were described by bulk models employing periodic boundary conditions as well as cluster models. The calculations were analyzed with respect to structural features of the CO2 molecule and its immediate surroundings. Also, the molecule's harmonic frequencies were determined. The calculated frequencies were in qualitative agreement with experimental observations. The cluster models produced comparable results given that the clusters were large enough to reproduce the structural features of the bulk model. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced nitrogen removal of low C/N wastewater using a novel microbial fuel cell (MFC) with Cupriavidus sp. S1 as a biocathode catalyst (BCS1)
Authors: Li Wenying , Liu Yuxiang , Wu Lijie , Ren Ruipeng , Lv Yongkang
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

An innovative microbial fuel cell (MFC) using Cupriavidus sp. S1 as the biocathode catalyst was developed to improve nitrogen removal from low carbon/nitrogen (C/N) wastewater.

RESULTS

The desirable external resistance was 100 Ω in this study, with an optimal total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency of 95.71%, and a maximum current density and power density of 7583.89 ± 318.11 mA m−3 and 932 mW m−3 at C/N = 2, respectively, which initially confirmed the ability of Cupriavidus sp. S1 to obtain electrons from the electrode. The maximum tolerance of the system at Rext of 100 Ω was C/N = 1, with a TN removal efficiency of 90.87%. Compared with the open circuit, the TN removal increased by approximately 21.60% and 52.02% at C/N = 2 and 1, respectively, which expanded the application area for the dominant denitrifying bacteria S1. Additionally, the system exhibits the obvious merits of less sludge production, low energy consumption and the recovery of some energy.

CONCLUSION

Based on these results, domesticated Cupriavidus sp. S1 possesses electrochemical activity. Thus, the system has great potential for efficient and cost‐effective nitrogen removal from nitrate‐containing low C/N wastewater and energy recovery. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Hypothesis: determining phenotypic specificity facilitates understanding of pathophysiology in rare genetic disorders
Authors: Haijes Hanneke A. , Jaeken Jaak , van Hasselt Peter M.
Published: December 2019

In the rapidly growing group of rare genetic disorders, data scarcity demands an intelligible use of available data, in order to improve understanding of underlying pathophysiology. We hypothesize, based on the principle that clinical similarities may be indicative of shared pathophysiology, that determining phenotypic specificity could provide unsuspected insights in pathophysiology of rare genetic disorders. We explored our hypothesis by studying subunit deficiencies of the conserved oligomeric Golgi (COG) complex, a subgroup of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG). In this systematic data assessment, all 45 reported patients with COG‐CDG were included. The vocabulary of the Human Phenotype Ontology was used to annotate all phenotypic features and to assess occurrence in other genetic disorders. Gene occurrence ratios were calculated by dividing the frequency in the patient cohort over the number of associated genes, according to the Human Phenotype Ontology. Prioritisation based on phenotypic specificity was highly informative and captured phenotypic features commonly associated with glycosylation disorders. Moreover, it captured features not seen in any other glycosylation disorder, among which episodic fever, likely reflecting underappreciated other cellular functions of the COG complex. Interestingly, the COG complex was recently implicated in the autophagy pathway, as are more than half of the genes underlying disorders that present with episodic fever. This suggests that whereas many phenotypic features in these patients are caused by disrupted glycosylation, episodic fever might be caused by disrupted autophagy. Thus, we here demonstrate support for our hypothesis that determining phenotypic specificity could facilitate understanding of pathophysiology in rare genetic disorders.
Projected spatial patterns in precipitation and air temperature for China's northwest region derived from high‐resolution regional climate models
Authors: Yin Zhenliang , Feng Qi , Yang Linshan , Deo Ravinesh C. , Adamowski Jan F. , Wen Xiaohu , Jia Bing , Si Jianhua
Published: December 2019

Derived from realistic global warming scenarios, long‐term projections of spatial patterns in precipitation and temperature in hydrology and climatology can serve to evaluate climate risk, explore sources of renewable energies and allow local‐scale data to inform decisions regarding agricultural, ecosystem, social, recreational and economic activities. Under the CORDEX‐EA project, the precipitation and temperature projections (2020–2045) for the economically and socially important region of Northwestern China were derived from high‐resolution regional climate model (RCM) simulations for RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios, and compared against a historical period or baseline of 1980–2005. Drawing data from four key RCMs [Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF); Regional Spectral Model (RSM); Regional Climate Model version 4.0 (RegCM4); Mesoscale Model version 5 (MM5)], reliable local‐scale projections were generated by applying suitable bias correction that accords with the multivariate bias correction (MBC) approach. To validate this approach and then evaluate climate change impacts, the adjusted precipitation and temperature estimated from bias‐corrected models for the historical period were compared to the observed data. The results showed that the simulated spatiotemporal distribution of multiyear average precipitation and temperature appear to fit relatively well with the observations, however, the wet‐cold and dry‐warm climate‐related biases were still evident for the high altitude regions. Bias‐corrected future projections of RCMs indicated spatially averaged annual precipitation is expected to rise by about 23.6 and 35.3 mm under the RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios, respectively, while spatially averaged annual temperature is expected to rise by about 1.95 and 1.10°C. Precipitation is projected to increase in all seasons, albeit, more so in the cold season (i.e., boreal winter and spring) than the warm season (i.e., boreal summer and autumn). The annual increase is expected to be about 56.7% under the RCP 4.5 scenario, compared to 67.6% under the RCP 8.5 scenario. The changes of mean temperature in winter are expected to be significant, −37.8% under both RCP scenarios. For spring, the mean temperature will rise by 23.1% (28.9%) under the RCP 4.5 (8.5) scenario. A MBC approach was found to be effective in yielding reliable projected changes in precipitation and temperature variables. The proposed approach has important implications for climatological studies and evaluation of climate change impacts on localized regions, not only in China, but also in other similar areas of the world, where decisions for managing climate risk must be implemented by policy makers, government, industry and stakeholders.
Tip‐modified Raman tensor of a porphine molecule
Authors: Gazizov Almaz R. , Salakhov Myakzyum Kh. , Kharintsev Sergey S.
Published: December 2019

It is well established that bringing a plasmonic tip into the proximity of a single molecule inevitably affects its state and vice versa. Due to the enhanced light–matter interaction, spectroscopic information on the molecule captured with tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) can noticeably differ on that coming from standard far‐field Raman spectroscopy. In this work, we develop a theoretical approach for calculating Raman tensors of a single oblate molecule that takes near‐field depolarization effects into account. Generally speaking, a tip‐dressed molecule exhibits the modified polarizability and, therefore, the Raman tensors. It is reported that the TERS technique can be used to reconstruct Raman tensors of vibration modes of anisotropic single molecules. The symmetric and antisymmetric modes of the molecules nearby a plasmonic tip are enhanced differently. In order to unravel the Raman tensors, two near‐field depolarization factors are necessarily introduced for the oblate molecule. As an example, we consider a free base porphine molecule as a test molecule to demonstrate the enhancement of intensities of Raman bands assigned to different symmetries. Also, we demonstrate an experimental way how to measure the depolarization factors using an ensemble of randomly oriented molecules. We believe that our finding will be beneficial to the interpretation of TERS measurements of single molecules.
Heterocyclic amines in braised chicken may mainly infiltrate from reused marinade during braising, instead of thermic generation
Authors: Cheng Yiqun , Yu Yajie , Zhou Xinghu , Zhu Zongshuai , Lei Yang , Khan Iftikhar Ali , Huang Ming , Zhou Guanghong
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Sauce braised meat products are popular in Asia, although their complicated processing may lead to potential safety risks. Especially, how hazardous compounds are formed during their preparation is still unclear. In the present study, braised chicken breasts, which are a typical Chinese sauce braised meat product, were used to investigate the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) during heat treatment.

RESULTS

Precursor content (creatine and reducing sugar), HCA level and temperature were measured in different parts of the chicken breast at each processing stage. The results obtained showed that the increasing trends of total HCA content in different parts of chicken breast were not the same. Only total HCA content in the skin (4.93 ± 0.80 ng g−1) increased significantly after deep‐frying. During braising, total HCA level in the skin was high (12.1–14.3 ng g−1) and relatively stable. However, total HCA content in pectoralis major muscle (3.90–7.40 ng g−1) and pectoralis minor muscle (1.44–5.31 ng g−1) was much lower than in the skin, and increased steadily with braising time.

CONCLUSION

Braising is the main factor which affects HCA level in braised chicken. Combining the results of temperature and precursor content, a possible explanation for the large amount of HCAs in braised chicken is the gradual infiltration from reused marinade, instead of thermic generation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Changes in oxalate composition and other nutritive traits in root tubers and shoots of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. [Lam.]) under water stress
Authors: Gouveia Carla SS , Ganança José FT , Lebot Vincent , Pinheiro de Carvalho Miguel ÂA
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

The presence of insoluble calcium oxalate druse crystals (CaOx) in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) can negatively affect its nutritional quality. Photosynthesis, starch, and protein composition are linked with oxalate synthesis and tuber quality under water scarcity. Our main objective was the oxalate quantitation of sweet potato tubers and shoots and also to assess how drought changes their nutritional value. Eight sweet potato accessions from Madeira, the Canaries and Guinea‐Bissau were analyzed for their response to drought stress. Tubers and shoots were analyzed for total (T‐Ox), soluble (S‐Ox) and insoluble (CaOx) oxalates, protein, chlorophyll content index (CCI), soluble starch, starch swelling power, and starch solubility in water.

RESULTS

The S‐Ox and CaOx content was higher in shoots. Six accessions were above maximum CaOx levels for raw consumption. Accessions with more favorable responses to drought had decreased CaOx with S‐Ox increase content for osmoregulation. They also presented slightly decreased CCI and protein contents. These accessions also had an increased shoot starch content, for further tuber storage starch hydrolysis, and maintained the quality and functional properties of the tuber starch grain. Those with a less favorable response to drought had a higher T‐Ox and CaOx content in both organs, hindering water absorption. They also had decreased protein and CCI, with a slight increase in tuber starch hydrolysis.

CONCLUSION

Oxalate content was significantly related to carbohydrate metabolism, CCI, and protein synthesis. This study significantly contributed to the screening of the sweet potato stress response to drought, to adapt this crop to climatic change through breeding programs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Some modified Adams‐Bashforth methods based upon the weighted Hermite quadrature rules
Authors: Masjed‐Jamei Mohammad , Moalemi Zahra , Srivastava Hari M. , Area Iván
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we first introduce a modification of linear multistep methods, which contain, in particular, the modified Adams‐Bashforth methods for solving initial‐value problems. The improved method is achieved by applying the Hermite quadrature rule instead of the Newton‐Cotes quadrature formulas with equidistant nodes. The related coefficients of the method are then represented explicitly, the local error is given, and the order of the method is determined. If a numerical method is consistent and stable, then it is necessarily convergent. Moreover, a weighted type of the new method is introduced and proposed for solving a special case of the Cauchy problem for singular differential equations. Finally, several numerical examples and graphical representations are also given and compared.
Provision of foot and ankle care services for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease across Europe
Authors: Alcacer‐Pitarch Begonya , Backhouse Michael Ross , Gijon‐Nogeron Gabriel , Biscontini Devid , Bonafede Sofia , Ferreira Andre , Gatt Alfred , Lescure Yves , Nava Tiziana , Redmond Anthony C. ,   On behalf of the EULAR Foot & Ankle Study Group
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of the present study was to explore the variation in the provision of care for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs), and foot and ankle problems between European healthcare systems.

Methods

An electronic questionnaire was developed and piloted in seven countries prior to being distributed to the presidents of all 22 national health professionals in rheumatology associations within the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). Summary data were obtained using SPSS V22. Ethical approval was sought from the Medical Research Ethics Committee of University of Malaga (CEUMA‐91‐2015‐H).

Results

Sixteen questionnaires (73% response rate) were completed (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK). All 16 respondents indicated that foot and ankle healthcare services were provided in their country, but only three countries had services specializing in RMD‐related foot and ankle problems (the Netherlands, the UK and Malta). The professions providing care varied, depending on the pathology and the country. Foot and ankle pain was mostly treated by rheumatologists and physiotherapists; foot and ankle deformities by orthopaedic surgeons and orthotist/prosthetists; and foot and ankle ulcers by nurses. Services were predominantly delivered through the public sector, and in secondary care (hospital) settings.

Conclusions

Only three countries reported having specialist foot and ankle services addressing the needs of people with RMDs. Variation was seen in the professions which provided care between countries, and also between the foot and ankle pathologies cared for. There is a lack of clinical pathways and guidelines for the management of patients with RMD‐related foot and ankle problems.
Great improvement of low‐temperature impact resistance of isotactic polypropylene/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber blends by traces of carbon nanotubes and β‐nucleating agents
Authors: Fan Qian , Zhang Jinghan , Wu Zhiqiang , Yang Song , Chen Yanhui , Lu Ying , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: December 2019

In this work, a considerable low‐temperature toughness enhancement of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) was achieved by adding 30 wt% ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) as well as traces of β‐nucleating agent (β‐NAs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The impact strength of the iPP/30 wt% EPDM blend with 0.1 wt% β‐NAs reached 6.57 kJ/m2 at −20°C, over 2.5 times of pure iPP. A slightly improved impact strength was further found in the β‐nucleated iPP/30 wt% EPDM at the presence of 0.05 wt% CNTs. The presence of traces of CNTs, β‐NAs, and EPDM displayed synergistic low‐temperature toughness reinforcement effect on the iPP blends. The underlying toughening mechanism was attributed to the formation of a great amount of voids and plastic deformation of iPP matrix affected by CNTs, β‐NAs, and EPDM. Our work provided a feasible strategy to significantly increase the low‐temperature toughness of iPP.
Poly(propylene carbonate)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate)‐based bionanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanocrystal for potential application as a packaging material
Authors: Jiang Guo , Yu Li , Zhang Mengdi , Wang Feng , Zhang Shuidong
Published: December 2019

Poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) is an aliphatic polycarbonate synthesized from carbon dioxide and propylene oxide. Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is a type of thermoplastic polyester produced by biological fermentation. The blending of PHB with PPC can effectively enhance the mechanical properties and barrier properties of PPC. Bionanocomposites of PPC/PHB enhanced by cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) are prepared via a two‐step process using polyethylene glycol as a carrier. Results show that the oxygen barrier properties of the composites increased with the increase of the CNC content. When the CNC content is 1 wt%, the oxygen barrier performance increases nearly 18 times. The assumed model can predict the barrier performance of composites with the combined influence of morphology and CNC distribution. This will make PPC/PHB/CNC nanocomposites a very promising degradable material for food packaging application.
Diabetic pre‐programming of myelopoiesis impairs tissue repair
Authors: Jarajapu Yagna PR
Published: December 2019

Bone marrow‐derived monocyte–macrophages promote healing of injured tissue cooperatively with vasculogenic hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. However, diabetes dysregulates hematopoiesis and attenuates bone marrow‐derived tissue‐reparative responses. In a recent issue of The Journal of Pathology, Barman et al extensively characterized myelopoietic responses in bone marrow following skin wounding in a type 2 model of diabetes. The study demonstrated that accumulation of monocyte–macrophages in the peripheral tissues is increased due to diabetic myelopoiesis that would oppose the reparative process following tissue injury. Interestingly, in this model, pathological myelopoiesis is independent of IL‐1β. The potential prophylactic and therapeutic implications of these data are discussed in terms of paracrine signaling, macrophage polarization, and hematopoietic stem cell mobilization/retention. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The MRI spectrum of congenital cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Diogo Mariana C. , Glatter Sarah , Binder Julia , Kiss Herbert , Prayer Daniela
Published: December 2019

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an ubiquitous pathogen, with a high worldwide seroprevalence. When acquired in the prenatal period, congenital CMV (cCMV) is a major cause of neurodevelopmental sequelae and hearing loss. cCMV remains an underdiagnosed condition, with no systematic screening implemented in pregnancy or in the postnatal period. Therefore, imaging takes a prominent role in prenatal diagnosis of cCMV. With the prospect of new viable therapies, accurate and timely diagnosis becomes paramount, as well as identification of fetuses at risk for neurodevelopmental sequelae. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a complementary method to ultrasound (US) in fetal brain and body imaging. Anterior temporal lobe lesions are the most specific finding, and MRI is superior to US in their detection. Other findings such as ventriculomegaly, cortical malformations and calcifications, as well as hepatosplenomegaly, liver signal changes and abnormal effusions are unspecific. However, when seen in combination these should raise the suspicion of fetal infection, highlighting the need for a full fetal assessment. Still, some fetuses deemed normal on prenatal imaging are symptomatic at birth or develop delayed cCMV‐associated symptoms, leaving room for improvement of diagnostic tools. Advanced MR sequences may help in this field and in determining prognosis, but further studies are needed.
Double Brønsted Acidic Media Immobilized on Carbonized Sugarcane Bagasse (CSCB) as a New and Efficient Solid Acid Catalyst for the Synthesis of Coumarins, Dicoumarols and Xanthenes
Authors: Rostami Esmael , Hamidi Zare Samaneh
Published: December 2019

This work is the first report on use of carbonized sugarcane bagasse as a carbon bed for a double Brønsted acidic ionic liquid for the synthesis of a new functionalized solid acid catalyst. Immobilization of hydrogen sulfate was performed from the reaction of 3‐amino propyltriethoxysilane with carbonized bagasse and sulfonation of amine groups using sulfuric acid. Thus, ammonium hydrogen sulfate supported sugarcane bagasse (AHS@CSCB) was prepared. The catalyst (AHS@CSCB) was fully characterized by FT‐IR, XRD, TGA, FE‐SEM, elemental‐mapping and EDX techniques. Also, the surface acidity of catalyst was studied by Hammett function. Catalytic properties of the synthesized catalyst were examined in the synthesis of coumarins, dicoumarols and dibenzoxanthenes. All of the products were obtained with high yields in short reaction times and solvent‐free conditions and characterized with 1H and 13CNMR or previously reported products were examined by comparison with reported melting points. Some of the advantages of our method are simple preparation of catalyst and safe handling, very low cost of support and its abundance, high products yield, catalyst recyclability, solvent‐free and easy workup.
[Zn(L‐Pro)2] as a Simple and Efficient Catalyst: A Convenient Route for the Synthesis of Thia‐Michael Derivatives via Green Chemical Approach
Authors: Katla Ramesh , Katla Rakhi , da Silva Caren D. G. , dos Santos Beatriz F. , Branquinho Tábata A. , Ferro Criscieli T. B. , Domingues Nelson L. C.
Published: December 2019

A simple and convenient route for the synthesis of thia‐Michael products was established using pyrazol‐5(4H)‐one with various thiophenols in the presence of [Zn(L‐Pro)2],an efficient catalyst under mild reaction conditions. The salient features of this methodology are good yields, eco‐friendly catalyst, low catalyst loading and faster reaction times.
A Short Review on Valorization of Slaughterhouse Wastes for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Sai Akhil Uppuganti , Alagumalai Avinash
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the waste animal fats are drawing attention as potential feedstocks for biodiesel production. The exploit of rendered waste animal fats as feedstocks could help to further decrease the price of biodiesel compared to other feedstocks. These fatty wastes can be transformed into ethyl or methyl esters by the esterification and/or transesterification process with the aid of different types of catalysts. In this outlook, an endeavor has been made in this work to describe the significance of fatty wastes of chicken, fish, beef, goat, sheep, pig and duck in the biodiesel production process. This study also extends to present the distinct techniques used by researchers to convert these fatty wastes into biodiesel.
Cranial morphology of a new phytosaur (Diapsida, Archosauria) from the Upper Triassic of India: implications for phytosaur phylogeny and biostratigraphy
Authors: Datta Debajit , Ray Sanghamitra , Bandyopadhyay Saswati
Published: December 2019

Detailed description and phylogenetic assessment of a phytosaur skull collected from the Tiki Formation of the Rewa Gondwana Basin of India and earlier diagnosed asParasuchus hislopi, show that it pertains to a new genus and species,Volcanosuchus statisticae. The new taxon is characterized by marginal overlapping of the nostrils by the antorbital fenestrae, external nares situated on a bulbous and raised dome, the lateral surface of the jugal ornamented by a prominent ridge defined by multiple tubercles and radiating thread‐like structures, and distinct ornamentation patterns on the rostrum and skull table. Phylogenetic analysis nestsVolcanosuchuswithin Mystriosuchinae, where it forms a sister taxon to (Rutiodon + Leptosuchomorpha) and marks the transition between the basal Parasuchidae and more derived Mystriosuchinae phytosaurs. Evolution of the phytosaur skulls resulted in changes from non‐overlapping nostril and antorbital fenestra to an overlapping state, anteroposterior elongation of the exoccipital–supraoccipital shelf, appearance of a median ridge on the basioccipital, and reduction of the supratemporal fenestra. Considerable faunal overlap of the Tiki Formation is evident with the lower Maleri Formation, which is late Carnian based on the occurrence ofHyperodapedon,ParasuchusandExaeretodon. The Tiki Formation correlates with the Ischigualasto Formation of Argentina, the upper part of the Santa Maria Formation, and the overlying lower Caturrita Formation of Brazil, the Isalo II Beds of Madagascar, Lossiemouth Sandstone of Scotland, and the lower Tecovas Formation of the Chinle Group of North America, and ranges from late Carnian to early/middle Norian.
Wind power forecast using neural networks: Tuning with optimization techniques and error analysis
Authors: Nazaré Gonçalo , Castro Rui , Gabriel Filho Luís R.A.
Published: December 2019

The increased integration of wind power into the power system implies many challenges to the network operators, mainly due to the hard to predict and variability of wind power generation. Thus, an accurate wind power forecast is imperative for systems operators, aiming at an efficient and economical wind power operation and integration into the power system. This work addresses the issue of forecasting short‐term wind speed and wind power for 1 hour ahead, combining artificial neural networks (ANNs) with optimization techniques on real historical wind speed and wind power data. Levenberg‐Marquardt (LM) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are used as training algorithms to update the weights and bias of the ANN applied to wind speed predictions. The forecasting performance produced by the proposed models are compared with each other, as well as with the benchmark persistence model. Test results show higher performance for ANN‐LM wind speed forecasting model, outperforming both ANN‐PSO and persistence. The application of ANN‐LM to wind power forecast revealed also a good performance, with an average improvement of 2.8% in relation to persistence. An innovative analysis of mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) behaviour in time and in typical days is finally offered in the paper.
MeV neutrino dark matter: relic density, lepton flavour violation and electron recoil
Authors: Fiaschi Juri , Klasen Michael , Vargas Miguel , Weinheimer Christian , Zeinstra Sybrand
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Right-handed neutrinos with MeV to GeV mass are very promising candidates for dark matter (DM). Not only can they solve the missing satellite puzzle, the cusp-core problem of inner DM density profiles, and the too-big-to fail problem, i.e. that the unobserved satellites are too big to not have visible stars, but they can also account for the Standard Model (SM) neutrino masses at one loop. We perform a comprehensive study of the right-handed neutrino parameter space and impose the correct observed relic density and SM neutrino mass differences and mixings. We find that the DM masses are in agreement with bounds from big-bang nucleosynthesis, but that these constraints induce sizeable DM couplings to the charged SM leptons. We then point out that previously overlooked limits from current and future lepton flavour violation experiments such as MEG and SINDRUM heavily constrain the allowed parameter space. Since the DM is leptophilic, we also investigate electron recoil as a possible direct detection signal, in particular in the XENON1T experiment. We find that despite the large coupling and low backgrounds, the energy thresholds are still too high and the predicted cross sections too low due to the heavy charged mediator, whose mass is constrained by LEP limits.
Probing universalities in d > 2 CFTs: from black holes to shockwaves
Authors: Fitzpatrick A. Liam , Huang Kuo-Wei , Li Daliang
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Gravitational shockwaves are insensitive to higher-curvature corrections in the action. Recent work found that the OPE coefficients of lowest-twist multi-stress-tensor operators, computed holographically in a planar black hole background, are insensitive as well. In this paper, we analyze the relation between these two limits. We explicitly evaluate the two-point function on a shockwave background to all orders in a large central charge expansion. In the geodesic limit, we find that the ANEC exponentiates in the multi-stress-tensor sector. To compare with the black hole limit, we obtain a recursion relation for the lowest-twist products of two stress tensors in a spherical black hole background, letting us efficiently compute their OPE coefficients and prove their insensitivity to higher curvature terms. After resumming the lowest-twist stress-tensors and analytically continuing their contributions to the Regge limit, we find a perfect agreement with the shockwave computation. We also discuss the role of double-trace operators, global degenerate states, and multi-stress-tensor conformal blocks. These holographic results suggest the existence of a larger universal structure in higher-dimensional CFTs.
Constraining higher order gravities with subregion duality
Authors: Cáceres Elena , Misobuchi Anderson Seigo , Pedraza Juan F.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

In higher derivative theories, gravity can travel slower or faster than light. With this feature in mind, we revisit the construction of the causal and entanglement wedges in this type of theories, and argue that they must be constructed using the fastest mode instead of null rays. We show that the property of causal wedge inclusion, i.e., the fact that the causal wedge must be contained in the entanglement wedge, leads to more stringent constraints on the couplings than those imposed by hyperbolicity and boundary causality. Our results imply that the full power of subregion-subregion duality could lead to the same conclusions previously obtained based on high energy graviton scattering. We illustrate our findings with a systematic analysis in Gauss-Bonnet gravity.
Holographic cosmology from “dimensional reduction” of N = 4 SYM vs. AdS5× S5
Authors: Bernardo Heliudson , Nastase Horatiu
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We propose a way to obtain holographic cosmology models for 3+1 dimensional cosmologies vs. 3 dimensional field theories from a “dimensional reduction” procedure, obtained by integrating over the time direction, of (modifed) standard holographic duals of 3+1 dimensional field theories. The example of a modified$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 4 SYM vs. AdS5× S5is presented, and in perturbation theory doesn’t match observations, though at strong coupling it might. But the proposed mechanism is more general, and it could in principle be applied to other top down holographic models.
Treatment evolution and improved survival in multiple myeloma in Taiwan
Authors: Tang Chao-Hsiun , Hou Hsin-An , Huang Kuan-Chih , Qiu Hong , Liu Yanfang
Published: December 2019

The incidence of multiple myeloma (MM) is increasing worldwide, but the rate of increase is greatest in Asia. Few data describe the epidemiology and treatment of MM in Asia. Building on a cohort study from 2007 to 2012 using the Taiwan National Healthcare Insurance Research database, we extended our analysis to estimate the disease burden and treatment patterns of patients with MM in Taiwan through 2015. A further 1664 patients with newly diagnosed MM from 2013 to 2015 (total 4387 patients from 2007 to 2015) were enrolled and followed up until death or end of the observation period (December 31, 2016), whichever occurred first. The age distribution of the 2013–2015 cohort was similar to that for previous years, but there were fewer men (52.1% versus 58.0%), and more patients had renal impairment at diagnosis (19.7% versus 16.4%). From 2007 to 2015, crude annual incidences per 100,000 population of newly diagnosed MM increased from 1.74 to 2.48 and age-adjusted incidences from 1.41 to 1.65. Crude all-cause mortality rates increased over time. Case fatality decreased from 25.5 to 18.3% and median survival increased from 2.10 to 3.12 years. From 2007 to 2015, the percentage of patients receiving first-line therapy with novel agents increased from 0.4 to 89.4%, autologous stem cell transplantation doubled, and chemotherapy use decreased by 81%. Comprehensive national data covering 9 years of follow-up demonstrate continuing change in the disease burden, treatment, and survival of MM in Taiwan. Despite increased use of new treatments, MM remains largely incurable.
New awakenings: current understanding of sleep dysfunction and its treatment in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Keir Lindsay H. M. , Breen David P.
Published: December 2019

The non-motor features of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are increasingly being recognised. This review deals with the spectrum of sleep disorders associated with PD, which have a multifactorial aetiology and can significantly have an impact on the quality of life of patients and their carers. Some sleep disorders represent a prodromal phase of PD, with REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) being of particular interest in this regard, whereas others become more common as the disease advances. Understanding the pathophysiology of these sleep disturbances will hopefully lead to new treatment opportunities in the future. The recent discovery of the glymphatic system for removal of waste products from the brain has also raised the possibility that sleep disruption may cause or accelerate the underlying disease process.
The hidden information in patient-reported outcomes and clinician-assessed outcomes: multiple sclerosis as a proof of concept of a machine learning approach
Authors: Brichetto Giampaolo , Monti Bragadin Margherita , Fiorini Samuele , Battaglia Mario Alberto , Konrad Giovanna , Ponzio Michela , Pedullà Ludovico , Verri Alessandro , Barla Annalisa , Tacchino Andrea
Published: December 2019

Machine learning (ML) applied to patient-reported (PROs) and clinical-assessed outcomes (CAOs) could favour a more predictive and personalized medicine. Our aim was to confirm the important role of applying ML to PROs and CAOs of people with relapsing-remitting (RR) and secondary progressive (SP) form of multiple sclerosis (MS), to promptly identifying information useful to predict disease progression. For our analysis, a dataset of 3398 evaluations from 810 persons with MS (PwMS) was adopted. Three steps were provided: course classification; extraction of the most relevant predictors at the next time point; prediction if the patient will experience the transition from RR to SP at the next time point. The Current Course Assignment (CCA) step correctly assigned the current MS course with an accuracy of about 86.0%. The MS course at the next time point can be predicted using the predictors selected in CCA. PROs/CAOs Evolution Prediction (PEP) followed by Future Course Assignment (FCA) was able to foresee the course at the next time point with an accuracy of 82.6%. Our results suggest that PROs and CAOs could help the clinician decision-making in their practice.
The Murky Distinction Between Curiosity and Interest: State of the Art and Future Prospects
Authors: Pekrun Reinhard
Published: December 2019

Curiosity and interest are at the core of human inquiry. However, controversies remain about how best to conceptualize these constructs. I propose to derive definitions by attending to the common core of typical usages of the two terms. Using this approach, curiosity can be defined as a psychological state that includes three components: recognition of an information gap, anticipation that it may be possible to close it, and an intrinsically motivated desire to do so. Interest can be more broadly defined as intrinsically motivated engagement with any specific object, content, or activity. The two definitions imply that curiosity is a special case of interest. Furthermore, I propose to use the state-trait distinction to distinguish between momentary and enduring forms of both curiosity and interest, which makes it possible to treat state versus trait curiosity and interest in conceptually parallel ways. To make further progress in understanding the two constructs, research is needed that investigates their affective dynamics and their generalizability across age-related and socio-cultural contexts.
Sex demographics alter the effect of habitat structure on predation by a temporary pond specialist
Authors: Cuthbert Ross N. , Dalu Tatenda , Wasserman Ryan J. , Weyl Olaf L. F. , Froneman P. William , Callaghan Amanda , Dick Jaimie T. A.
Published: December 2019

Habitat structure can profoundly influence interaction strengths between predators and prey. Spatio-temporal habitat structure in temporary wetland ecosystems is particularly variable because of fluctuations in water levels and vegetation colonisation dynamics. Demographic characteristics within animal populations may also alter the influence of habitat structure on biotic interactions, but have remained untested. Here, we investigate the influence of vegetation habitat structure on the consumption of larval mosquito prey by the calanoid copepod Lovenula raynerae, a temporary pond specialist. Increased habitat complexity reduced predation, and gravid female copepods were generally more voracious than male copepods in simplified habitats. However, sexes were more similar as habitat complexity increased. Type II functional responses were exhibited by the copepods irrespective of habitat complexity and sex, owing to consistent high prey acquisition at low prey densities. Attack rates by copepods were relatively unaffected by the complexity gradient, whilst handling times lengthened under more complex environments in gravid female copepods. We demonstrate emergent effects of habitat complexity across species demographics, with predation by males more robust to differences in habitat complexity than females. For ecosystems such as temporary ponds where sex-skewed predator ratios develop, our laboratory findings suggest habitat complexity and sex demographics mediate prey risk.
Mechanisms of Tactile Sensory Phenotypes in Autism: Current Understanding and Future Directions for Research
Authors: Schaffler Melanie D. , Middleton Leah J. , Abdus-Saboor Ishmail
Published: December 2019

Purpose of Review

This review aims to summarize the current body of behavioral, physiological, and molecular knowledge concerning tactile sensitivity in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with a focus on recent studies utilizing rodent models.

Recent Findings

Mice with mutations in the ASD-related genes, Shank3, Fmr1, UBE3A, and Mecp2, display tactile abnormalities. Some of these abnormalities appear to be caused by mutation-related changes in the PNS, as opposed to changes in the processing of touch stimuli in the CNS, as previously thought. There is also growing evidence suggesting that peripheral mechanisms may contribute to some of the core symptoms and common comorbidities of ASD. Researchers are therefore beginning to assess the therapeutic potential of targeting the PNS in treating some of the core symptoms of ASD.

Sensory abnormalities are common in rodent models of ASD. There is growing evidence that sensory hypersensitivity, especially tactile sensitivity, may contribute to social deficits and other autism-related behaviors.
Design of a Plasmonic Platform to Improve the SERS Sensitivity for Molecular Detection
Authors: Dab Chahinez , Thomas Reji , Ruediger Andreas
Published: December 2019

We suggested a plasmonic platform based on a cubic pattern of gold spheres for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In the case of linear polarization along the symmetry axes, the SERS enhancement per area is identical to hexagonally patterned surfaces. The validity of this model was tested using the simulation package of COMSOL Multiphysics® Modeling Software. We found an improved sensitivity in the near infrared and visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This method considered tolerance towards stacking faults and suggested a plasmonic platform for ultra-sensing applications. The design can be extended towards the molecular detection if the proposed plasmonic platform is used with SERS.
An operation optimization method of a fully mechanized coal mining face based on semi-physical virtual simulation
Authors: Shi Hengbo , Xie Jiacheng , Wang Xuewen , Li Juanli , Ge Xing
Published: December 2019

A mathematical hydraulic support self-tracking model for three-machine cooperative mining is proposed to address low efficiency and difficulties in strategy evaluation of a fully mechanized coal face. The proposed model uses the coordinates and traction speed of the shearer to calculate the frequency of the circular hydraulic support and realize the coordinated operation of the three-machine mining technology. A unity3d hardware-in-the-loop simulation experimental hearer and hydraulic support platform was used to validate the model of autonomous follow-up. The results indicate that collaborative control of coal mining allowed for an efficiency 3.76% higher than under automatic operation mode and 46.03% higher than under manual control; thus, The mathematical model provided an improved production efficiency of the fully mechanized mining face. The mathematical model also provides a more intelligent and reliable security support, and improves the intelligent level of hydraulic support follow-up control.