bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive genome and transcriptome analysis of the dermatophyte Trichophyton schoenleinii reveals the candidate pathogenic genes
Authors: Ge Li‐Yu , Liu Jia , Zheng Hai‐Lin , Mei Huan , Liang Guan‐Zhao , Liu Wei‐Da 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundTrichophyton schoenleinii is an anthropophilic dermatophyte that causes tinea favosa. Nowadays, it remains an important pathogen in some regions of the world, mainly epidemic in Africa and West Asia. Despite the medical importance of T. schoenleinii infections, a high‐quality reference genome for T. schoenleinii is still unavailable, neither its transcriptomic profile.ObjectivesThe aim of the current study was to improve understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanism of T. schoenleinii, and to define the candidate pathogenic genes of T. schoenleinii.MethodsComprehensive genomic analysis of T. schoenleinii was carried out by Illumina and PacBio sequencing platforms. Transcriptome profiles of T. schoenleinii cultured in vitro in two media containing either keratin or soy protein were determined using RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) technology.ResultsHere, we present the first draft genome sequence of T. schoenleinii strain T2s, which consists of 11 scaffolds containing 7474 predicted genes. Transcriptome analysis showed that genes involved in keratin hydrolysis have higher expression in T. schoenleinii grown in keratin medium, including genes encoding proteases, cysteine dioxygenase and acetamidase. Other genes with higher expression include genes encoding the components of the pH‐responsive signal transduction pathways and transcription factors, many of which may play a role in pathogenicity.ConclusionIn summary, this study provides new insights into the pathogenic mechanism of T. schoenleinii and highlights candidate genes for further development of novel targets in disease diagnosis and treatment of tinea favosa.
Genetic architecture underlying light and temperature mediated flowering in Arabidopsis, rice, and temperate cereals
Authors: Cao Shuanghe , Luo Xumei , Xu Dengan , Tian Xiuling , Song Jie , Xia Xianchun , Chu Chengcai , He Zhonghu 
Published: February 2021

SummaryTimely flowering is essential for optimum crop reproduction and yield. To determine the best flowering‐time genes (FTGs) relevant to local adaptation and breeding, it is essential to compare the interspecific genetic architecture of flowering in response to light and temperature, the two most important environmental cues in crop breeding. However, the conservation and variations of FTGs across species lack systematic dissection. This review summarizes current knowledge on the genetic architectures underlying light and temperature‐mediated flowering initiation in Arabidopsis, rice, and temperate cereals. Extensive comparative analyses show that most FTGs are conserved, whereas functional variations in FTGs may be species specific and confer local adaptation in different species. To explore evolutionary dynamics underpinning the conservation and variations in FTGs, domestication and selection of some key FTGs are further dissected. Based on our analyses of genetic control of flowering time, a number of key issues are highlighted. Strategies for modulation of flowering behavior in crop breeding are also discussed. The resultant resources provide a wealth of reference information to uncover molecular mechanisms of flowering in plants and achieve genetic improvement in crops.
Parascapular Sub‐Iliocostalis Plane Block: Comparative Description of a Novel Technique for Posterior Rib Fractures
Authors: Almeida Carlos Rodrigues 
Published: February 2021

AbstractWe describe a new analgesic technique, parascapular sub‐iliocostalis plane block (PSIP), for lateral‐posterior rib fractures as an alternative to other regional techniques in a high‐risk patient who suffered a decompensation of her cardiorespiratory function after posterior chest trauma. We performed a continuous ultrasound‐guided left PSIP block in the sub‐iliocostalis plane next to the fourth rib to optimize analgesia and minimize complications. The patient had total pain relief with marked improvement in her cardiorespiratory condition. No complications were reported. The efficacy of the PSIP block may potentially depend on different mechanisms of action: (1) direct action in the fracture site by craniocaudal myofascial spread underneath the erector spinae muscle (ESM); (2) spread to deep layers through tissue disruption caused by trauma, to reach the proximal intercostal nerves; (3) further medial spread through deeper layers to the midline to block the posterior and ventral spinal nerves; (4) medial spread below the ESM, to reach the posterior spinal nerves (more reliably than rhomboid intercostal / sub‐serratus [RISS] block); and (5) lateral spread in the sub‐serratus (SS) plane to reach the lateral cutaneous branches of the intercostal nerves; while avoiding significant negative hemodynamic effects associated with techniques such as the paravertebral block (PVB), erector spinae plane (ESP) block or its variations, or thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA). A comparative comprehensive overview of the regional techniques described for posterior chest trauma is presented, including TEA, PVB, ESP block, retrolaminar block, mid‐point to transverse process block, costotransverse foramen block, RISS, and serratus anterior plane (SAP) block.
A statistical protocol to describe differences among nutrient utilization patterns of Fusarium spp. and Trichoderma gamsii
Authors: Lasinio Giovanna Jona , Pollice Alessio , Pappalettere Livia , Vannacci Giovanni , Sarrocco Sabrina 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe Biolog phenotype microarrays (PM) system offers a simple and cheap tool to rapidly provide a high throughput of information about the phenotypes of fungal isolates in a short time. In order to improve the use of the PM system in fungal ecology studies, the present work proposes a new statistical protocol based on two approaches, that is, a functional principal components analysis to describe similarity patterns of growth curves, and a Bayesian generalized additive model (GAM) to allow inferences on specific growth features, in order to analyse nutrient fungal utilization in a model system including four causal agents of Fusarium head blight, the natural competitor Fusarium oxysporum, and the beneficial isolate Trichoderma gamsii T6085. Analysis of data collected by the Biolog PM in our biological system showed a different nutritional competitive potential of the four pathogens, as well as an intermediate behaviour of the natural competitor and of our biocontrol agent. This protocol, applicable to different fungal phenotypical studies at both isolate and community level, allows a full exploitation of data obtained by the PM system and provides important information about the nutritional pattern of a single isolate compared to those of other fungi, a key factor to be exploited in biocontrol strategies.
A prospective, observational study to compare effect of DTT treatment and heat inactivation on ABO isoagglutinin titers in O blood group donors
Authors: Pandey Prashant , Setya Divya , Ranjan Shweta , Singh Mukesh Kumar 
Published: February 2021

Background and aimsIn order to determine actual concentration of clinically significant IgG antibodies, there is a need to inactivate IgM antibodies, which can be performed by DTT or heat. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of DTT treatment and heat inactivation (HI) on ABO isoagglutinin titres performed by column agglutination technology (CAT) and conventional tube technique (CTT).Materials and methodsThis was a prospective, observational study conducted from October 2018 to March 2020. All consecutive O group donors were included. Serum from each donor was treated with DTT, and heat and tests were performed by CTT and CAT before and after treatment.ResultsA total of 2005 donors were included. 401 (20%) samples had inter‐observer variation by CTT, and 69 (3·4%) had inter‐observer variation by CAT. Median anti‐A and anti‐B titre results were higher with CAT as compared to CTT. Median anti‐A and anti‐B IgG titre results showed a one‐ to twofold difference between CTT and CAT with higher titres reported by CAT. Median IgM titres decreased two‐ to threefold after DTT treatment, whereas onefold decrease was confirmed after HI. Concordance was found to be poor. However, correlation was found to be strong.ConclusionThere is overestimation of ABO IgG antibody titres and hence, estimation of ABO IgG titres after inactivation of IgM antibodies is strongly recommended. DTT treatment was found to be superior to HI in terms of efficiency in elimination of IgM activity.
A Hyper-Ellipsoid Approach for Inverse Lack-of-Knowledge Uncertainty Quantification
Authors: Ludwig Norbert , Duddeck Fabian , Daub Marco 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper presents a novel methodology to solve an inverse uncertainty quantification problem where only the variation of the system response is provided by a small set of experimental data. Furthermore, the method is extended for cases where the uncertainty of the response quantities is given by an incomplete set of statistical moments. For both cases, the uncertainty on the output space is represented by a minimum volume enclosing ellipsoid (MVEE). The actual inverse uncertainty quantification is conducted by identifying also a hyper-ellipsoid for the input parameters, which has an image on the output space that matches the MVEE as close as possible. Hence, the newly introduced approach is a contribution to the field of nonprobabilistic uncertainty quantification methods. Compared to literature, the new approach has often superior accuracy and especially an improved efficiency for high-dimensional problems. The method is validated first by an analytical test case and subsequently applied to a jet engine performance model, where this type of inverse uncertainty quantification has to be solved to allow for a consistent and integrated solution procedure. In both cases, the results are compared with an inverse method where the variability on the input side is quantified by a multidimensional interval. It can be shown that the hyper-ellipsoid approach is superior with respect to the computation time in high-dimensional problems encountered not only in jet engine design.
Shell Buckling With Polymorphic Uncertain Surface Imperfections and Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Fina Marc , Panther Lukas , Weber Patrick , Wagner Werner 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In a probabilistic design approach for cylindrical shells, Gaussian random fields are used to simulate geometric imperfections. The shape of imperfections depends, among others, on the autocorrelation properties of the random field. Underlying uncertainties such as a small sample size or imprecise measurements make it practically impossible to define a crisp correlation function. For a more realistic description of the imprecise correlation structure, the classical probabilistic approach is extended to a fuzzy stochastic approach. More exactly, the polymorphic uncertainty approach is used taking into account natural variability and incompleteness. Consequently, geometric imperfections are represented as fuzzy probability based random fields. Therefore, the required correlation parameters are described as polymorphic uncertain parameters. The quantification of uncertainties is demonstrated on real data. Furthermore, the polynomial chaos surrogate model is used for the alpha-level optimization in the fuzzy analysis. The sensitivity indices as a by-product of the surrogate model show the influence of the input parameters on the statistical parameters of the critical buckling load factor. The main purpose of this paper is to show how the presented methods can support the design process of cylindrical shells.
Sensitivity Analysis of Epistemic Uncertainty on Input Parameters and System Structure Using Dempster-Shafer Theory
Authors: Hou Yunhui 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this article, a method is proposed to conduct a global sensitivity analysis of epistemic uncertainty on both system input and system structure, which is very common in early stage of system development, using Dempster-Shafer theory (DST). In system reliability assessment, the input corresponds to component reliability and system structure is given by system reliability function, cut sets, or truth table. A method to propagate real-number mass function through set-valued mappings is introduced and applied on system reliability calculation. Secondly, we propose a method to model uncertain system with multiple possible structures and how to obtain the mass function of system level reliability. Finally, we propose an indicator for global sensibility analysis. Our method is illustrated, and its efficacy is proved by numerical application on two case studies.
To Study the Effect of Microstructures on Machinability of Inconel-718 Superalloy in Micro-Drilling Process
Authors: Singh Shashi Ranjan , Vasavada Jitesh , Mote Rakesh Ganpat , Mishra Sushil Kumar 
Published: February 2021

AbstractNickel-based superalloys have been extensively used in the aerospace industry due to their excellent mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. The mechanical properties of the Inconel-718 majorly depend on its microstructure which can be controlled using thermomechanical treatments. Machining of the heat-treated Inconel-718 component is very difficult due to very high hardness. This paper investigates the relationship between the material microstructure developed through a thermomechanical process and the machinability through micro-drilling of Inconel-718. In this study, a wide range of microstructures with hardness ranging from 179 HV to 461 HV was achieved by different thermomechanical and heat-treatment processes. Flank wear, thrust force, and burr height analysis were carried out to understand the machining behavior after micro-drilling. Electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD) technique was used to characterize the microstructure. No correlation between grain size and thrust force was observed. However, a clear trend between thrust force and hardness was established. It was also observed through misorientation analysis that the machined surface deforms significantly with material hardness.
Early Detection of Fatigue Crack Damage in Ductile Materials: A Projection-Based Probabilistic Finite State Automata Approach
Authors: Bhattacharya Chandrachur , Dharmadhikari Susheel , Basak Amrita , Ray Asok 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Fatigue failure occurs ubiquitously in mechanical structures when they are subjected to cyclic loading well below the material’s yield stress. The tell-tale sign of a fatigue failure is the emergence of cracks at the internal or surface defects. In general, a machinery component has a finite fatigue life based on the number of cycles, it can sustain before a fracture occurs. However, the estimated life is generally conservative and often a large factor of safety is applied to make the component fail-safe. From the perspective of better utilization of a machinery component, it is, however, desirable to have maximum usage of the component without a catastrophic failure. It is, therefore, conducive to have a measure that can capture precursors to failure to facilitate active diagnosis of the machinery health. In this study, a precursor detection method is developed upon modifications of probabilistic finite state automata (PFSA). The efficacy of the proposed method is demonstrated on cold-rolled AL7075-T6 notched specimens in a computer-instrumented and computer-controlled fatigue testing apparatus. The results show that the proposed method is capable of detecting the emergence of cracks (at ∼95% accuracy) and also can capture precursors with good fidelity.
Stationary Shoulder Friction Stir Assisted Scribe Technique for Dissimilar Joining
Authors: Das Hrishikesh , Upadhyay Piyush 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We report on implementation of a stationary shoulder in dissimilar joints of Al-steel and Al-carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) using friction stir assisted scribe technology (FaST). Viable joint strength similar to the conventional FaST process was demonstrated in Al-Steel. A significant improvement in as-welded surface roughness for both Al-steel and Al-CFRP cases was also achieved. Interrupted lap shear tests performed on Al-steel joints and a corresponding computational model indicate the joint failure typically occurs in Al sheet via a crack that originates at the steel hook tip on the loading side. A similar fracture path was observed in an Al-CFRP joint.
A Receding-Horizon Framework for Co-Optimizing the Velocity and Power-Split of Automated Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Chen Di , Huang Mike , Stefanopoulou Anna , Kim Youngki 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper presents a control framework to co-optimize the velocity and power-split operation of a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) online in the presence of traffic constraints. The principal challenge in its online implementation lies in the conflict between the long control horizon required for global optimality and limits in available computational power. To resolve the conflict between the length of horizon and its computation complexity, we propose a receding-horizon strategy where co-states are used to approximate the future cost, helping to shorten the prediction horizon. In particular, we update the co-state using a nominal trajectory and the temporal-difference (TD) error based on co-state dynamics. Our simulation results demonstrate a 12% fuel economy improvement over the sequential/layered control strategy for a given driving scenario. Moreover, its real-time practicality is evidenced by a computation time per model predictive controller (MPC) step on average of around 80 ms within a 10 s prediction horizon.
Design and Development of a Mobile Platform Mimicking Skating With Continuous Contact
Authors: Gupta Varan , Kumar Rajesh , Agarwal Shantnav , Kar Indra N. , Khatait Jitendra P. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper describes skating locomotion in a straight line based on continuous contact of rollers with the surface. Two skates traverse in and out while changing their orientation. Net traction force is generated because of no-slip conditions of rollers at the contact. The two skates are in continuous contact with the surface and therefore the balancing problem is circumvented. Different designs are developed and evaluated in order to replicate the desired motion. A heuristic-based architecture is developed to move the robot in a straight line.
Kinetostatic Modeling of Planar Compliant Mechanisms With Flexible Beams, Linear Sliders, Multinary Rigid Links, and Multiple Loops
Authors: Chi I-Ting , Chang Pei-Lun , Tran Ngoc Dang Khoa , Wang Dung-An 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper presents kinetostatic models of planar compliant mechanisms with multinary rigid links, multinary joints, sliders, and multiple loops based on the chained beam constraint model. The focus is on modeling of several building blocks of the beam type compliant mechanisms to aid in their design. The modeling approaches are based on the loop-closure equations and the static equilibrium conditions. Models of the multinary rigid links, multinary joints, and sliders are presented. As a result, the kinetostatic models of the compliant mechanisms can be systematically formulated by using these building blocks. Several mechanisms constructed by the building blocks are modeled and verified by finite element analyses. A case study is provided to demonstrate the application of the developed models. These models pave the way for versatile applications of the chained beam constraint model for the design and analysis of beam type planar compliant mechanisms.
Synthesis of Watt-Type Timed Curve Generators and Selection From Continuous Cognate Spaces
Authors: Baskar Aravind , Plecnik Mark 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Following recent work on Stephenson-type mechanisms, the synthesis equations of Watt six-bar mechanisms that act as timed curve generators are formulated and systematically solved. Four variations of the problem arise by assigning the actuator and end effector onto different links. The approach produces exact synthesis of mechanisms up to eight precision points. Polynomial systems are formulated and their maximum number of solutions is estimated using the algorithm of random monodromy loops. Certain variations of Watt timed curve generators possess free parameters that do not affect the output motion, indicating a continuous space of cognate mechanisms. Packaging compactness, clearance, and dimensional sensitivity are characterized across the cognate space to illustrate trade-offs and aid in selection of a final mechanism.
Modeling and Simulation of a Vertical Multi-Effect Diffusion Solar Still Coupled With a Tracking Solar System and a PV/T-SWH System
Authors: Boubekri M. , Chaker A. , Saadi S. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper aims to study the productivity of a vertical multi-effect diffusion solar still (VMEDSS) coupled with a solar tracking system and a photovoltaic/thermal solar water heater system (PV/T-SWH). The studied system can run continuously over 24 h to have a continuous production. The experimental climatic conditions of Ksar Challala (35 deg 13′ 12.835″ N, 2 deg 19′ 2.035″ E, Altitude: 800 m) in Algeria are used in this study, for 2 days: one in summer and one in winter. The obtained results were compared with those of the vertical still oriented southward. The results show clearly the effect of the solar tracking system on the increase of the still production during summer and winter. The production percentage increase has reached: 293.01% in summer and 15.1% in winter. Feeding the still equipped with a tracking system with hot water produced by the PV/T-SWH system gives good productivities during summer and winter where the increase in production reaches, respectively, 733.76% and 415.55%. The percentage production growth of the vertical still oriented southward fed with hot water is 376.38% and 394.78% of the days of summer and winter, respectively.
Anaerobic Threshold Prediction Using the OMNI-Walk/Run Scale in Long-Distance Runners: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Campos Yuri de Almeida Costa , Vianna Jeferson M. , Guimarães Miller P. , Souza Hiago L.R. , Domínguez Raúl , Novaes Jefferson S. , Leitão Luis F.M. , Silva Sandro F. , Reis Victor M. 
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To identify the anaerobic threshold through the lactate threshold determined by Dmax and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) threshold by Dmax and to evaluate the agreement and correlation between lactate threshold determined by Dmax and RPE threshold by Dmax during an incremental test performed on the treadmill in long-distance runners. Methods: A total of 16 long-distance runners volunteered to participate in the study. Participants performed 2 treadmill incremental tests for the collection of blood lactate concentrations and RPE separated by a 48-hour interval. The incremental test started at 8 km·h−1, increasing by 1.2 km·h−1 every third minute until exhaustion. During each stage of the incremental test, there were pauses of 30 seconds for the collection of blood lactate concentration and RPE. Results: No significant difference was found between methods lactate threshold determined by Dmax and RPE threshold by Dmax methods (P = .664). In addition, a strong correlation (r = .91) and agreement through Bland–Altman plot analysis were found. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that it is possible to predict anaerobic threshold from the OMNI-walk/run scale curve through a single incremental test on the treadmill. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the reproducibility and objectivity of the OMNI-walk/run scale for anaerobic threshold determination.