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10.1093/mnras/stz2699 | Rotation measure synthesis applied to synthetic SKA images of galaxy clusters | ABSTRACT Future observations with next-generation radio telescopes will help us to understand the presence and evolution of magnetic fields in galaxy clusters through determination of the so-called rotation measure (RM). In this work, we applied the RM synthesis technique to synthetic first phase Square Kilometre Array mid frequency element (i. e. the SKA1-MID) radio images of a pair of merging galaxy clusters, measured between 950 and 1750 MHz with a resolution of 10 arcsec and thermal noise of 0. 1μJy beam−1. The results of our RM synthesis analysis are compared with the simulation input parameters. We study two cases: one with radio haloes at the cluster centres and another without. We found that the information obtained with RM synthesis is in general agreement with the input information; however, some discrepancies are present. We characterize them in this work, with the final goal of determining the potential impact of SKA1-MID on the study of cluster magnetic fields. | [
"Universe Sciences",
"Systems and Communication Engineering"
]
|
10.1007/978-3-030-30796-7_6 | Seo A Scientific Events Data Model | Scientific events have become a key factor of scholarly communication for many scientific domains. They are considered as the focal point for establishing scientific relations between scholarly objects such as people (e. g. , chairs and participants), places (e. g. , location), actions (e. g. , roles of participants), and artifacts (e. g. , proceedings) in the scholarly communication domain. Metadata of scientific events have been made available in unstructured or semi-structured formats, which hides the interconnected and complex relationships between them and prevents transparency. To facilitate the management of such metadata, the representation of event-related information in an interoperable form requires a uniform conceptual modeling. The Scientific Events Ontology (OR-SEO) has been engineered to represent metadata of scientific events. We describe a systematic redesign of the information model that is used as a schema for the event pages of the OpenResearch. org community wiki, reusing well-known vocabularies to make OR-SEO interoperable in different contexts. OR-SEO is now in use on thousands of OpenResearch. org events pages, which enables users to represent structured knowledge about events without having to deal with technical implementation challenges and ontology development themselves. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
313617 | Subjective well-being and fertility | The project is about subjective well-being (SWB) and demographic behaviour, with a particular focus on fertility in advanced societies, across time and space. The project is motivated by the fact that European and other advanced industrialized countries have for decades experienced below-replacement fertility levels, which are now posing dramatic challenges to ageing population structures. Cross-sectional and temporal variations in fertility remains an unsolved puzzle for current theories of below-replacement fertility. The argument put forward in this project is that SWB may be the missing link in the understanding of why countries differ so significantly in fertility.
The project has a strong interdisciplinary perspective with the following aims:
- to advance the understanding of the complex link between SWB and fertility, bringing together a longitudinal perspective with a comparative perspective;
- to examine the role of policies, welfare provision and social norms operating at different levels, addressing possible policy measures that would improve the SWB of individuals and couples, leading eventually to increased fertility
- to communicate findings and stimulate the academic and policy debate on how SWB matters for fertility, highlighting the relevance of SWB for future data collection efforts and the potential use of SWB for fertility projections;
The project relies upon secondary data sources, both longitudinal and comparative in nature. The assessment of SWB and fertility requires statements about causality and interactions with the relevant context. By explicitly addressing the linkages between SWB and fertility in a systematic way, the project will address an important gap in the literature, helping to modify mainstream theoretical frameworks for the understanding fertility variation and contributing to the creation of a new paradigm of post-transitional fertility theory | [
"Human Mobility, Environment, and Space",
"The Social World and Its Interactions",
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations"
]
|
10.1051/0004-6361/201833712 | The Galactic Wc And Wo Stars The Impact Of Revised Distances From Gaia Dr2 And Their Role As Massive Black Hole Progenitors | Wolf-Rayet stars of the carbon sequence (WC stars) are an important cornerstone in the late evolution of massive stars before their core collapse. As core-helium burning, hydrogen-free objects with huge mass-loss, they are likely the last observable stage before collapse and thus promising progenitor candidates for type Ib/c supernovae. Their strong mass-loss furthermore provides challenges and constraints to the theory of radiatively driven winds. Thus, the determination of the WC star parameters is of major importance for several astrophysical fields. With Gaia DR2, for the first time parallaxes for a large sample of Galactic WC stars are available, removing major uncertainties inherent to earlier studies. In this work, we re-examine the sample from Sander et al. (2012) to derive key properties of the Galactic WC population. All quantities depending on the distance are updated, while the underlying spectral analyses remain untouched. Contrasting earlier assumptions, our study yields that WC stars of the same subtype can significantly vary in absolute magnitude. With Gaia DR2, the picture of the Galactic WC population becomes more complex: We obtain luminosities ranging from log L = 4. 9 to 6. 0 with one outlier having log L = 4. 7. This indicates that the WC stars are likely formed from a broader initial mass range than previously assumed. We obtain mass-loss rates ranging between log Mdot = -5. 1 and -4. 1, with Mdot propto L^0. 68 and a linear scaling of the modified wind momentum with luminosity. We discuss the implications for stellar evolution, including unsolved issues regarding the need of envelope inflation to address the WR radius problem, and the open questions in regard to the connection of WR stars with Gamma-ray bursts. WC and WO stars are progenitors of massive black holes, collapsing either silently or in a supernova that most-likely has to be preceded by a WO stage. | [
"Universe Sciences"
]
|
W2135080147 | Concentration and size distribution of particles in abstracted groundwater | Particle number concentrations have been counted and particle size distributions calculated in groundwater derived by abstraction wells. Both concentration and size distribution are governed by the discharge rate: the higher this rate the higher the concentration and the higher the proportion of larger particles. However, the particle concentration in groundwater derived from abstraction wells, with high groundwater flow velocities, is much lower than in groundwater from monitor wells, with minimal flow velocities. This inconsistency points to exhaustion of the particle supply in the aquifer around wells due to groundwater abstraction for many years. The particle size distribution can be described with the help of a power law or Pareto distribution. Comparing the measured particle size distribution with the Pareto distribution shows that particles with a diameter >7 microm are under-represented. As the particle size distribution is dependent on the flow velocity, so is the value of the "Pareto" slope beta. | [
"Earth System Science",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences"
]
|
648608 | Forensic Geneticists and the Transnational Exchange of DNA data in the EU: Engaging Science with Social Control, Citizenship and Democracy | Today we are living in the “genetic age” of criminal investigation. There is a widespread cultural belief that DNA technology has the unrivalled capacity to identify authors of crimes. In light of this ideology, EU Law (Prüm Decision, 2008) obliges all Member States to create the conditions for the reciprocal automated searching and comparison of information on DNA data for the purpose of combating cross-border crime, terrorism and illegal immigration. Forensic geneticists play a crucial role in this scenario: they develop the techno-scientific procedures that enable DNA data to be shared across national boundaries. EXCHANGE aims to understand the close links between a highly specialised field of expert knowledge – forensic genetics – and surveillance in the EU.
If the EU succeeds in this political project, about 10 million genetic profiles of identified individuals will be exchanged between agencies in all EU countries. This raises acute cultural, political and societal challenges. EXCHANGE aims to address these challenges by scrutinizing how forensic geneticists, within the context of the transnational exchange of DNA data in the EU, engage with the social values attributed to science – i.e. objectivity, truth – and the values of social control, citizenship and democracy.
The expected outputs are: 1. To provide a general picture of the Prüm framework by conducting interviews with forensic geneticists in all EU countries; 2. To develop in-depth knowledge of forensic geneticists’ activities relating to Prüm using ethnographic observation and qualitative analysis of criminal cases; 3. To study countries with different local positionings in relation to Prüm by means of a comparative study involving Portugal, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK. EXCHANGE stimulates interdisciplinary dialogue between the social sciences and the forensic genetics. This research also tackles questions that are relevant to all the actors involved in criminal justice cooperation in the EU. | [
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems",
"The Social World and Its Interactions"
]
|
Q3876504 | Improvement of the production capacity in MASTER Ltd. | Master OOD has the activity “Manufacture of other general purpose machinery, not elsewhere classified” with code according to KID-2008-28.29 and specialises in the production of general purpose machinery. The applicant needs to meet the increased consumer demand with full production capacity as well as to increase the quality and competitiveness of its production and to expand its position on national and international markets. The company operates old technologies and equipment for carrying out the production processes that lead to low productivity, high production costs, unsatisfactory quality of the products produced, the need for optimisation of the production process, and lack of sufficient production capacity to meet the market volumes of demand.To meet these needs, the project is aimed at implementing activity to improve the production capacity of the enterprise, through investments in high-tech production equipment, namely the purchase of 1 Hydraulic Guillotine (DMA No 1), 1 piece Hydraulic Abkant (DMA No 2), the expected results of the project are related to improving the production capacity and competitiveness of the enterprise, increasing its export potential by achieving higher productivity and increasing the volume of production produced, optimising the production process, reducing the production costs per unit of production, and improving the quality of the products offered. The project focuses directly on equality and non-discrimination, as well as sustainable development. | [
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.15252/emmm.202013426 | Human soluble ACE2 improves the effect of remdesivir in SARS-CoV-2 infection | There is a critical need for safe and effective drugs for COVID-19. Only remdesivir has received authorization for COVID-19 and has been shown to improve outcomes but not decrease mortality. However, the dose of remdesivir is limited by hepatic and kidney toxicity. ACE2 is the critical cell surface receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Here, we investigated additive effect of combination therapy using remdesivir with recombinant soluble ACE2 (high/low dose) on Vero E6 and kidney organoids, targeting two different modalities of SARS-CoV-2 life cycle: cell entry via its receptor ACE2 and intracellular viral RNA replication. This combination treatment markedly improved their therapeutic windows against SARS-CoV-2 in both models. By using single amino-acid resolution screening in haploid ES cells, we report a singular critical pathway required for remdesivir toxicity, namely, Adenylate Kinase 2. The data provided here demonstrate that combining two therapeutic modalities with different targets, common strategy in HIV treatment, exhibit strong additive effects at sub-toxic concentrations. Our data lay the groundwork for the study of combinatorial regimens in future COVID-19 clinical trials. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1063/1.5116860 | Optimal Motion Of Triangular Magnetocapillary Swimmers | A system of ferromagnetic particles trapped at a liquid-liquid interface and subjected to a set of magnetic fields (magnetocapillary swimmers) is studied numerically using a hybrid method combining the pseudopotential lattice Boltzmann method and the discrete element method. After investigating the equilibrium properties of a single, two and three particles at the interface, we demonstrate a controlled motion of the swimmer formed by three particles. It shows a sharp dependence of the average center-of-mass speed on the frequency of the time-dependent external magnetic field. Inspired by experiments on magnetocapillary microswimmers, we interpret the obtained maxima of the swimmer speed by the optimal frequency centered around the characteristic relaxation time of a spherical particle. It is also shown that the frequency corresponding to the maximum speed grows and the maximum average speed decreases with increasing inter-particle distances at moderate swimmer sizes. The findings of our lattice Boltzmann simulations are supported by bead-spring model calculations. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Condensed Matter Physics"
]
|
W1955097764 | In-gap states of In2 O3 single crystals investigated by scanning tunneling spectroscopy | The influence of intrinsic point defects on the electronic structure of n-type In2O3 single crystals grown by two methods, namely chemical vapor transport and from the melt, was examined by scanning tunneling spectroscopy. This method is a very surface sensitive technique for measuring the local density of states. So far not resolved states within the fundamental band gap have been observed. The gap states have been studied at different crystals and after several annealing treatments in an oxidizing atmosphere. The spectroscopic results will be compared to state of the art DFT-calculations revealing hints on the origin of the gap states of In2O3 to be due to oxygen vacancies as well as indium and oxygen interstitials. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Condensed Matter Physics"
]
|
10.2140/pjm.2016.280.203 | Chordal generators and the hydrodynamic normalization for the unit ball | Let c ≥ 0 and denote by K(H, c) the set of all infinitesimal generators G: H→C on the upper half-plane H such that lim supy→∞ y · |G(iy)|≤c. This class is related to univalent functions f: H → H with hydrodynamic normalization and appears in the so-called chordal Loewner equation. In this paper, we generalize the class K(H, c) and the hydrodynamic normalization to the Euclidean unit ball in Cn. The generalization is based on the observation that G ∈ K(H, c) can be characterized by an inequality for the hyperbolic length of G(z). | [
"Mathematics"
]
|
890924 | From light-stimulated anion receptors to transmembrane carriers and pumps | The transport of anions across the cell membrane, which is mediated by transport proteins, is essential to many important biological processes. Dysregulation of this transport has been associated to various diseases and therefore, chemists endeavour to develop artificial receptors that mimic the function of natural transporters. Despite much progress over the last decade, the current artificial systems are mostly static, while proteins are able to change their activity dynamically in response to stimuli in the environment. To integrate such stimuli-controlled behavior in synthetic systems is a key contemporary challenge. In view of this, the goal of the proposed research program is to develop anion receptors in which the binding properties can be effectively modulated by light and to apply these receptors as transmembrane carriers and pumps, in order to regulate passive transport (i.e. down a concentration gradient) and to induce active transport (i.e. against a concentration gradient). This interdisciplinary program is divided into three work packages: WP1 aims at the development of structurally rigid and visible-light-actuated photoswitches and their use as platforms for constructing anion receptors; WP2 deals with the development of mechanically interlocked structures as photoswitchable anionic hosts; WP3 is directed at utilizing these receptors for light-gated transport and light-driven pumping of anions across phospholipid bilayers, whereas also an alternative dual-responsive anion channel will be prepared. Eventually, it is expected that this work will open a new route toward light-based localized pharmacological treatment, e.g. via light-triggered cancer or bacterial cell death. Furthermore, active transport systems, that are able to build up and maintain concentration gradients across membranes, could provide a completely new view on how to convert and store light (solar) energy. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
10.1016/j.cad.2018.03.002 | Fast and robust mesh generation on the sphere—Application to coastal domains | This paper presents a fast and robust mesh generation procedure that is able to generate meshes of the earth system (ocean and continent) in matters of seconds. Our algorithm takes as input a standard shape-file i. e. geospatial vector data format for geographic information system (GIS) software. The input is initially coarsened in order to automatically remove unwanted channels that are under a desired resolution. A valid non-overlapping 1D mesh is then created on the sphere using the Euclidean coordinates system x,y,z. A modified Delaunay kernel is then proposed that enables generation of meshes on the sphere in a straightforward manner without parametrization. One of the main difficulty in dealing with geographical data is the over-sampled nature of coastline representations. We propose here an algorithm that automatically unrefines coastline data. Small features are automatically removed while always keeping a valid (non-overlapping) geometrical representation of the domain. A Delaunay refinement procedure is subsequently applied to the domain. The refinement scheme is also multi-threaded at a fine grain level, allowing to generate about a million points per second on 8 threads. Examples of meshes of the Baltic sea as well as of the global ocean are presented. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
10.1007/978-94-6265-261-3_6 | Understanding Open Data Regulation An Analysis Of The Licensing Landscape | Open data models have been developed to improve democratic participation, transparency, and innovation. There is a growing variation in open data policies and licenses that aim to maximize dissemination and reuse of data and databases. Diverse tools have been developed, tailored to the specific field of open data licensing. However, the normative framework of open data is nuanced, and intellectual property laws differ in the treatment of data and databases. The open data regulatory system created from the existing legal framework, the adopted open data policies, and the licenses developed presents an inherent complexity that impedes data reusability. The chapter investigates legal issues stemming from that system in the current open data environment. The objective is to showcase solutions to that complexity stemming from the evolution of open data licenses, policies, and ultimately, intellectual property laws. | [
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems",
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations"
]
|
10.1145/2940716.2940752 | The Fedex Problem | Consider the pricing problem faced by FedEx. Each customer has a package to ship, a deadline $d$ by which he needs his package to arrive, and a value $v$ for a guarantee that the package will arrive by his deadline. FedEx can (and does) offer a number of different shipping options in order to extract more revenue from their customers. In this paper, we solve the optimal (revenue-maximizing) auction problem for the single-agent version of this problem. Our paper adds to the relatively short list of multi-parameter settings for which a closed-form solution is known. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics",
"Mathematics",
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations"
]
|
10.1051/0004-6361/201527875 | The Gaia Eso Survey Membership And Initial Mass Function Of The Γ Velorum Cluster | Context. Understanding the properties of young open clusters, such as the Initial Mass Function (IMF), star formation history and dynamic evolution, is crucial to obtain reliable theoretical predictions of the mechanisms involved in the star formation process. Aims. We want to obtain a list, as complete as possible, of confirmed members of the young open cluster γ Velorum, with the aim of deriving general cluster properties such as the IMF. Methods. We used all available spectroscopic membership indicators within the Gaia-ESO public archive together with literature photometry and X-ray data and, for each method, we derived the most complete list of candidate cluster members. Then, we considered photometry, gravity and radial velocities as necessary conditions to select a subsample of candidates whose membership was confirmed by using the lithium and Hα lines and X-rays as youth indicators. Results. We found 242 confirmed and 4 possible cluster members for which we derived masses using very recent stellar evolutionary models. The cluster IMF in the mass range investigated in this study shows a slope of α = 2. 6 ± 0. 5 for 0. 5 < M/M⊙ < 1. 3 and α = 1. 1 ± 0. 4 for 0. 16 < M/M⊙ < 0. 5 and is consistent with a standard IMF. Conclusions. The similarity of the IMF of the young population around γ2Vel to that in other star forming regions and the field suggests it may have formed through very similar processes. | [
"Universe Sciences"
]
|
EP 2018057385 W | METHOD OF OPERATING A WATERBORNE VESSEL | The invention relates to a method of operating a waterborne vessel propelled by at least one mechanical transmission azimuth thruster comprising a driveline connecting a motor located inside the hull of the vessel to a propeller (1) mounted to an outboard azimuth unit of the azimuth thruster, which azimuth unit is arranged to be rotated to any horizontal angle and which driveline comprises a generally vertical shaft (2) and a generally horizontal shaft (3) which is connected to the vertical shaft via a bevel gearing (4) comprising a first bevel gear (5) mounted on the vertical shaft and a cooperating second bevel gear (6) mounted on the horizontal shaft, which motor is drivingly connected to the vertical shaft and which horizontal shaft is drivingly connected to the propeller. The method comprises the steps of, during a first period of time, operating the azimuth thruster utilising a first load direction of the bevel gearing; and, during a second period of time after the first period of time, operating the azimuth thruster utilising a second load direction of the bevel gearing, which second load direction is opposite to the first load direction. The invention also relates to a mechanical transmission azimuth thruster for implementing the method. | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Systems and Communication Engineering"
]
|
10.1109/TIT.2015.2424238 | Sample Complexity Of Dictionary Learning And Other Matrix Factorizations | Many modern tools in machine learning and signal processing, such as sparse dictionary learning, principal component analysis, non-negative matrix factorization, $K$ -means clustering, and so on, rely on the factorization of a matrix obtained by concatenating high-dimensional vectors from a training collection. While the idealized task would be to optimize the expected quality of the factors over the underlying distribution of training vectors, it is achieved in practice by minimizing an empirical average over the considered collection. The focus of this paper is to provide sample complexity estimates to uniformly control how much the empirical average deviates from the expected cost function. Standard arguments imply that the performance of the empirical predictor also exhibit such guarantees. The level of genericity of the approach encompasses several possible constraints on the factors (tensor product structure, shift-invariance, sparsity…), thus providing a unified perspective on the sample complexity of several widely used matrix factorization schemes. The derived generalization bounds behave proportional to $(\log (n)/n)^{1/2}$ with respect to the number of samples $n$ for the considered matrix factorization techniques. | [
"Mathematics",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
W2589066453 | Contribution of dual fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography to the appraisal of presumed tuberculous chorioretinitis in a non-endemic area | To assess the respective involvement of retina versus choroid in presumed ocular tuberculosis (POT) in a non-endemic area using dual fluorescein (FA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA).We retrospectively analyzed cases diagnosed with POT at the Centre for Ophthalmic Specialized Care, Lausanne, Switzerland. Angiography signs were quantified using an established dual FA and ICGA scoring system for uveitis.Out of 1739 uveitis patients visited from 1995 to 2014, 53 (3%) were diagnosed with POT; of whom 28 patients (54 eyes) had sufficient data available to be included in this study. Of 54 affected eyes, 39 showed predominant choroidal involvement, 14 showed predominant retinal involvement and one had equal retinal and choroidal scores. Mean angiographic score was 6.97 ± 5.08 for the retina versus 13.48 ± 7.06 for the choroid (P < 0.0001). For patients with sufficient angiographic follow-up after combined anti-tuberculous and inflammation suppressive therapy, mean FA and ICGA scores decreased from 6.97 ± 5.08 to 3.63 ± 3.14 (P = 0.004), and 13.48 ± 7.06 to 7.47 ± 5.58 (P < 0.0001), respectively.These results represent the first report of the respective contributions of retinal and choroidal involvement in POT. Choroidal involvement was more common, for which ICGA is the preferred examination. In cases of compatible uveitis with positive results of an interferon-gamma release assay, particularly in a region that is non-endemic for TB, dual FA and ICGA should be performed to help establish the diagnosis of ocular tuberculosis and improve follow-up. | [
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases",
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy"
]
|
W2758912460 | 'John and Jackey': An exploration of Aboriginal and Chinese people's associations on the Victorian goldfields | While much has been written about Chinese miners, much less has been said about Aboriginal miners and even less about Aboriginal-Chinese relations on the gold fields and elsewhere. Historians and other writers, such as Stephenson, Dunstan, Gittins, Cronin, Ramsay and Edwards and Shen, have largely ignored Aboriginal associations with Chinese people in colonial Victoria. Eric Rolls's study is representative of this absence; - when discussing Australia's colonial racial policies towards the Chinese on the Victorian gold fields, Rolls is reluctant to draw many parallels between the Chinese, one group of people largely hidden from the historical gaze, and Aborigines, another group almost expunged from memory. A similar pattern can be seen in the historiography of encounters in other nations between Indigenous and Chinese people, such as in New Zealand and British Columbia where the paucity of the records initially led Yu to note: 'Here was a world only glimpsed'. | [
"The Study of the Human Past",
"Studies of Cultures and Arts"
]
|
interreg_2532 | Integrated Programme of Biological and Environmental Monitoring of Spawning and Nursery Grounds of the Main Fisheries Resources, Aimed at Improving Adriatic Fisheries Management | The “NURSERY” program is aimed at constituting and carrying out, on a scientific basis, a multidisciplinary integrated strategy for the
monitoring of the environment as well as of the fisheries resources. Thus, all variables contributing to the “ecosystem equation” will be taken into consideration: from fishing “parameters” (catches and landings by species, fishing fleets, fishing effort including historical data held by the research laboratories of all Adriatic countries), to biological “parameters” (e.g. structure of fish populations, growth of the various fish species), to environmental “parameters” (temperature, salinity, nutrients) | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.115.305242 | Function And Therapeutic Potential Of Noncoding Rnas In Cardiac Fibrosis | Cardiac fibrosis as a result of excessive extracellular matrix deposition leads to stiffening of the heart, which can eventually lead to heart failure. An important event in cardiac fibrosis is the transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, which secrete large amounts of extracellular matrix proteins. Although the function of protein-coding genes in myofibroblast activation and fibrosis have been a topic of investigation for a long time, it has become clear that noncoding RNAs also play key roles in cardiac fibrosis. This review discusses the involvement of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs in cardiac fibrosis and summarizes the issues related to translating these findings into real-life therapies. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Physiology in Health, Disease and Ageing",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
Q4246966 | LIQUIDITY SUPPORT FOR MICRO-ENTERPRISES AFFECTED BY THE COVID EMERGENCY | SUPPORT FOR THE LIQUIDITY OF MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES IN THE RETAIL, SUPPLY AND PERSONAL SERVICES SECTORS WHOSE ACTIVITY HAS BEEN SUSPENDED AS A RESULT OF THE PRIME MINISTERIAL DECREE OF 11 MARCH 2020 | [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations",
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems"
]
|
W2262722453 | A study on customer relationship management in banks with particular reference to Chennai | Today's customers buying decisions are not based simply on the quality of the product but with the relationship they have with the company. Banking industry has gone through many changes, privatisation to nationalisation and back to privatisation with International players on the one hand accepting deposits and giving advances to expanding services to wide variety of products. It is the responsibility of the organisations to provide what they need so that they can do their job properly. In today's world, we do business with individuals or groups with whom we may never meet and hence much less known in person to person sense. Customer Relationship Management is about creating the feel of comfort in this high tech environment. This paper focuses the role Customer Relationship Management in banking sector and the need for Customer Relationship Management to increase customer value and customer Relationship Management in Banks with special reference to Bank of India. | [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations"
]
|
W2153543702 | Super-Eddington slim accretion discs with winds | We construct Super-Eddington Slim Disks models around both stellar and super-massive black holes by allowing the formation of a porous layer with a reduced effective opacity. We show that at high accretion rates, the inner part of the disks become radiation pressure dominated. However, unlike the standard scenario in which the disks become thick, super-Eddington disks remain slim. In addition, they accelerate a significant wind with a "thick disk" geometry. We show that above about 1.5 times the standard critical mass accretion rate (needed to release the Eddington luminosity), the net luminosity released is above Eddington. At above about 5 times the standard critical rate, the central BH accretes more than the Eddington accretion rate. Above about 20 m-dot_crit, the disk remains slim but the wind becomes spherical, and the present model breaks down. | [
"Universe Sciences"
]
|
10.1145/3052973.3053044 | Scm Secure Code Memory Architecture | An increasing number of applications implemented on a SoC (System-on-chip) require security features. This work addresses the issue of protecting the integrity of code and read-only data that is stored in memory. To this end, we propose a new architecture called SCM, which works as a standalone IP core in a SoC. To the best of our knowledge, there exists no architectural elements similar to SCM that offer the same strict security guarantees while, at the same time, not requiring any modifications to other IP cores in its SoC design. In addition, SCM has the flexibility to select the parts of the software to be protected, which eases the integration of our solution with existing software. The evaluation of SCM was done on the Zynq platform which features an ARM processor and an FPGA. The design was evaluated by executing a number of different benchmarks from memory protected by SCM, and we found that it introduces minimal overhead to the system. | [
"Systems and Communication Engineering",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1038/s41586-019-1513-8 | A 3.8-million-year-old hominin cranium from Woranso-Mille, Ethiopia | The cranial morphology of the earliest known hominins in the genus Australopithecus remains unclear. The oldest species in this genus (Australopithecus anamensis, specimens of which have been dated to 4. 2–3. 9 million years ago) is known primarily from jaws and teeth, whereas younger species (dated to 3. 5–2. 0 million years ago) are typically represented by multiple skulls. Here we describe a nearly complete hominin cranium from Woranso-Mille (Ethiopia) that we date to 3. 8 million years ago. We assign this cranium to A. anamensis on the basis of the taxonomically and phylogenetically informative morphology of the canine, maxilla and temporal bone. This specimen thus provides the first glimpse of the entire craniofacial morphology of the earliest known members of the genus Australopithecus. We further demonstrate that A. anamensis and Australopithecus afarensis differ more than previously recognized and that these two species overlapped for at least 100,000 years—contradicting the widely accepted hypothesis of anagenesis. | [
"The Study of the Human Past",
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution"
]
|
10.1007/978-3-030-59725-2_75 | Inferring The 3D Standing Spine Posture From 2D Radiographs | The treatment of degenerative spinal disorders requires an understanding of the individual spinal anatomy and curvature in 3D. An upright spinal pose (i. e. standing) under natural weight bearing is crucial for such bio-mechanical analysis. 3D volumetric imaging modalities (e. g. CT and MRI) are performed in patients lying down. On the other hand, radiographs are captured in an upright pose, but result in 2D projections. This work aims to integrate the two realms, i. e. it combines the upright spinal curvature from radiographs with the 3D vertebral shape from CT imaging for synthesizing an upright 3D model of spine, loaded naturally. Specifically, we propose a novel neural network architecture working vertebra-wise, termed TransVert, which takes orthogonal 2D radiographs and infers the spine’s 3D posture. We validate our architecture on digitally reconstructed radiographs, achieving a 3D reconstruction Dice of \(95. 52\%\), indicating an almost perfect 2D-to-3D domain translation. Deploying our model on clinical radiographs, we successfully synthesise full-3D, upright, patient-specific spine models for the first time . | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
Q2891110 | Internacionalización de TrendyBrigade | Internacionalización de la marca SIW para el mercado asiático, especialmente para China y Qatar, apostando por muebles de estilo clásico nouveaux. | [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations"
]
|
W2107594468 | On the distributivity of LTL specifications | In this article, we investigate LTL specifications where γ[φ ∧ ψ] is equivalent to γ[φ] ∧ γ[ψ] independent of φ and ψ. Formulas γ with this property are called distributive queries because they naturally arise in Chan's seminal approach to temporal logic query solving [Chan 2000]. As recognizing distributive LTL queries is PSpace-complete, we consider distributive fragments of LTL defined by templates as in Buccafurri et al. [2001]. Our main result is a syntactic characterization of distributive LTL queries in terms of LTL templates: we construct a context-free template grammar LTLQ x which guarantees that all specifications obtained from LTLQ x are distributive, and all templates not obtained from LTLQ x have simple nondistributive instantiations. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics",
"Mathematics"
]
|
W2002536564 | Adsorption of potential-determining ions on porous glasses of different compositions | The adsorption characteristics are studied for nano- and ultraporous glasses (PGs) produced from sodium borosilicate glasses and a glass containing small amounts of fluoride ions and phosphorus oxide by acid (HCl) leaching and additional alkaline (KOH) and thermal treatment. The surface charges σ0 of PGs are determined by continuous potentiometric titration in 10−3−1 M NaCl, KCl, and (C2H5)4NCl solutions. Only negative surface charges of PGs are observed for all investigated systems. The |σ0| value is predetermined by the following factors: the composition of PG, the pore radius in the nanometer region (r ≤ 13 nm), the specificity of counterions, the content of secondary silica in the pore space, and the temperature of the additional thermal treatment of the membranes. The introduction of fluoride ions and phosphorus oxide into sodium borosilicate glass, an increase in the pore sizes and the amount of the secondary silica in PGs, and a rise in the specificity of counterions enhance the |σ0| values, which decrease with a rise in the temperature of the thermal treatment due to the surface dehydration and dehydroxylation. For ultraporous glasses (r > 13 nm), the surface charge is almost independent of the pore radius. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Materials Engineering"
]
|
10.1109/WHC.2011.5945554 | Weak Spatial Constancy In Touch | We propose extending the concept of spatial constancy to haptic perception. In vision, spatial constancy refers to the conversion of retinotopic signals into spatiotopic representations, allowing the observer to perceive space independently of his or her own eye movements, or at least partly so. The problem would seem at least as important in haptic perception, where sensory surfaces undergo even more complex movements in space. Here we develop a methodology for studying haptic spatial constancy, which involves a tactile display mounted on a mobile platform, and which allows us to decouple movements of the sensory surface—in this case the fingertip—from movements of objects on the fingertip. Using this apparatus, we find evidence for only weak haptic spatial constancy. | [
"Neuroscience and Disorders of the Nervous System",
"The Human Mind and Its Complexity"
]
|
W2558332613 | Environmental conditions in homes with healthy and unhealthy schoolchildren in Beijing, China | Abstract In 2013, a comprehensive investigation of environmental conditions was carried out in schoolchildren's houses during winter and summer in Beijing, China. The houses were divided into two Groups (Group A: unhealthy children's houses; Group B: healthy children's houses). According to the field measurement, inappropriate thermal environment contributed by indoor low temperatures and RHs in winter and dampness in summer could affect childhood health. The beyond standard (1000 ppm) situations of CO2 concentration revealed poor ventilation in houses of Group A, which could increase the risk of children's asthma and respiratory infections. Indoor carbonyls and VOCs levels in almost all the homes did not exceed the guideline. However, the integrated influence of these compounds should be noted for possible adverse health effects, especially in child's bedroom where children spent more time. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were most frequently detected SVOCs in house dust. In summer, the average child's daily intake of phthalates from house dust in homes of Group A was significantly higher (p | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Earth System Science",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1364/OE.25.014300 | Manipulation Of Vector Beam Polarization With Geometric Metasurfaces | Describing a class of beams with space-variant polarization, vector beams find many applications in both classical and quantum optics. However, simultaneous manipulation of its space-dependent polarization states is still a challenge with a single optical element. Here we demonstrate polarization modulation of a vector field by employing a plasmonic metasurface exhibiting strong and controllable optical activity. By changing the lateral phase shift between two reflective metasurface supercells, the rotation angle of a linear polarized light can be continuously tuned from zero to π with a high efficiency. As the optical activity of our metasurface devices only depends on geometrical phase, the metasurfaces can simultaneously modulate the rotation angle of a vector beam regardless of its space-variant polarization distribution. Our work provides a high efficient method in manipulating the polarization state of vector beams, especially with metasurface in a compact space, which presents great potential in research fields involving vector beams. | [
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials"
]
|
10.1007/s11229-017-1576-8 | Right out of the box: how to situate metaphysics of science in relation to other metaphysical approaches | Several advocates of the lively field of “metaphysics of science” have recently argued that a naturalistic metaphysics should be based solely on current science, and that it should replace more traditional, intuition-based, forms of metaphysics. The aim of the present paper is to assess that claim by examining the relations between metaphysics of science and general metaphysics. We show that the current metaphysical battlefield is richer and more complex than a simple dichotomy between “metaphysics of science” and “traditional metaphysics”, and that it should instead be understood as a three dimensional “box”, with one axis distinguishing “descriptive metaphysics” from “revisionary metaphysics”, a second axis distinguishing a priori from a posteriori metaphysics, and a third axis distinguishing “commonsense metaphysics”, “traditional metaphysics” and “metaphysics of science”. We use this three-dimensional figure to shed light on the project of current metaphysics of science, and to demonstrate that, in many instances, the target of that project is not defined with enough precision and clarity. | [
"Texts and Concepts"
]
|
interreg_1762 | Translating Industry 4.0 to improved SME policy instruments targeting innovation | Industry 4.0 (I4.0) affects innovation activities of companies throughout Europe to a dynamically increasing extent. Failing to turn production or service provision adapted to I4.0 results in losing clients and markets. In our project it will be primarily SMEs that we intend to assist so that they can better address the challenges this new paradigm imposes to increase their competitiveness. Partners’ experience suggests that policy instruments (PIs) targeted to SME innovation often struggle to support I4.0 related projects efficiently. With 8 partners from 5 regions INNOPROVEMENT aims at improving SME PIs targeting innovation activities and adapting them to requirements set by I4.0. This overall objective will increase the share and number of SMEs successfully implementing I4.0 related innovation projects in the partners’ regions and countries. 7 thematic issues will be explored by partners through intense experience exchange: 1) Innovation in software development; 2) Effectiveness of public money used to support industrial R&D under I4.0; 3) Introducing I4.0 to traditional industries; 5) Definition of I4.0 public policy initiatives; 5) Adjusting calls to I4.0 requirements; 6) Market price assessment methodologies; 7) Definition of an I4.0 maturity evaluation matrix. Sharing transferable good practices from these 7 thematic issues will be central among project activities. Using the outcomes partners will elaborate action plans to improve their PIs. Improvements of the addressed PIs (mainly calls for proposals) will take place primarily at the level of management of the instruments. The composition of the partnership contributes substantially to durability of project results since the 7 action plans will be elaborated by MAs and IBs directly responsible for the management of the addressed PIs. INNOPROVEMENT’s approach ensures 4 levels of learning. The project lies on a sound project management and implements a targeted communication strategy. | [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations",
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.1016/j.stem.2010.12.013 | Aging by telomere loss can be reversed | Recently in Nature, Jaskelioff et al. (2010) demonstrated that multiple aging phenotypes in a mouse model of accelerated telomere loss can be reversed within 4 weeks of reactivating telomerase. This raises the major question of whether physiological aging, likely caused by a combination of molecular defects, may also be reversible. | [
"Physiology in Health, Disease and Ageing",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
W4285296409 | “MORRER DE VERGONHA”: UMA INVESTIGAÇÃO PSICANALÍTICA SOBRE VERGONHA, HUMILHAÇÃO E ABJEÇÃO NA MIGRAÇÃO DE RETORNO | RESUMO: A migração de retorno se tornou apenas recentemente objeto de pesquisas no campo da saúde mental. A experiência do migrante de retorno em sua comunidade de origem o expõe aos olhares de alteridade que apontam para a fragilidade tanto de seus ideais egóicos como daqueles partilhados com o grupo cultural, particularmente quando o retorno se faz “com as mãos abanando”. Com duas vinhetas clínicas tiradas de uma pesquisa conduzida no Senegal entre 2014 e 2019, abordamos esse cenário no qual os sujeitos enfrentam vergonha, humilhação e abjeção quando retornam, ficando condenados a um espaço marginal de entre-dois migratório. | [
"The Human Mind and Its Complexity",
"The Social World and Its Interactions",
"Human Mobility, Environment, and Space"
]
|
10.1007/s40574-016-0066-0 | Reducible quasi-periodic solutions for the non linear Schrödinger equation | The present paper is devoted to the construction of small reducible quasi-periodic solutions for the completely resonant NLS equations on a d-dimensional torus Td. The main point is to prove that the normal form is reducible, block diagonal and satisifies the second Melnikov conditon block wise. From this we deduce the result by a KAM algorithm. | [
"Mathematics"
]
|
10.1103/PhysRevLett.122.250503 | Variational Neural-Network Ansatz for Steady States in Open Quantum Systems | We present a general variational approach to determine the steady state of open quantum lattice systems via a neural-network approach. The steady-state density matrix of the lattice system is constructed via a purified neural-network Ansatz in an extended Hilbert space with ancillary degrees of freedom. The variational minimization of cost functions associated to the master equation can be performed using a Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. As a first application and proof of principle, we apply the method to the dissipative quantum transverse Ising model. | [
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Computer Science and Informatics",
"Mathematics"
]
|
631463 | Post-Transcriptional regulation of influenza a virus rna | This research proposal aims to significantly alter our understanding of the critical role post-transcriptional processes play in the influenza A virus (IAV) life cycle. Post-transcriptional regulation of cellular mRNAs has seen a lot of research interest in recent years, including projects looking at the effects of RNA modifications and ribosome specialisation. However, much less attention has been paid to the effects these processes have on the viral life cycle. This project focuses on the post-transcriptional regulation of both IAV mRNAs and negative strand vRNAs. However, outcomes of this work will have a profound effect on our perceptions of the regulatory processes affecting a wide range of viral RNAs. In fact, by better understanding the roles of these processes on viral RNAs, such as IAV, we can also uncover novel functions on cellular mRNAs.
This project comprises 5 work packages with 11 intermediate goals. We will first identify the locations of various modifications present on IAV RNAs across multiple strains in both human and avian infected cells, significantly expanding on our current understanding, while exploring the potential for species-specific adaptions. Through mutagenesis and RNA capture techniques, we will evaluate how these modifications affect RNA characteristics and what effector proteins are involved in these processes. We will also use this information to determine the composition of ribosomes actively translating IAV mRNAs and evaluate whether specialised ribosomes are involved in the normal IAV life cycle. Finally, we will focus on the roles of RNA modifications on vRNAs, which should be quite distinct from mRNAs, and the host proteins that specifically bind, or are blocked from binding, sites of modification. This is an ambitious, multifaceted project that will have a direct impact on our understanding of IAV biology, and also provide novel insights of value to multiple disciplines including virology, RNA biology and protein translation. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy"
]
|
10.1016/j.celrep.2017.10.112 | Critical Modulation of Hematopoietic Lineage Fate by Hepatic Leukemia Factor | A gradual restriction in lineage potential of multipotent stem/progenitor cells is a hallmark of adult hematopoiesis, but the underlying molecular events governing these processes remain incompletely understood. Here, we identified robust expression of the leukemia-associated transcription factor hepatic leukemia factor (Hlf) in normal multipotent hematopoietic progenitors, which was rapidly downregulated upon differentiation. Interference with its normal downregulation revealed Hlf as a strong negative regulator of lymphoid development, while remaining compatible with myeloid fates. Reciprocally, we observed rapid lymphoid commitment upon reduced Hlf activity. The arising phenotypes resulted from Hlf binding to active enhancers of myeloid-competent cells, transcriptional induction of myeloid, and ablation of lymphoid gene programs, with Hlf induction of nuclear factor I C (Nfic) as a functionally relevant target gene. Thereby, our studies establish Hlf as a key regulator of the earliest lineage-commitment events at the transition from multipotency to lineage-restricted progeny, with implications for both normal and malignant hematopoiesis. Regulators of early blood cell formation are important in both health and disease. Wahlestedt et al. identify abrupt downregulation of the transcription factor Hlf during hematopoietic differentiation. Failure to downregulate Hlf leads to a drastically skewed output of mature blood cells, positioning Hlf as a critical regulator of hematopoiesis. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration"
]
|
743312 | Writing, reading and managing stress with H3K9me | Epigenetic inheritance is the transmission of information, generally in the form of DNA methylation or post-translational modifications on histones that regulate the availability of underlying genetic information for transcription. RNA itself feeds back to contribute to histone modification. Sequence accessibility is both a matter of folding the chromatin fibre to alter access to recognition motifs, and the local concentration of factors needed for efficient transcriptional initiation, elongation, termination or mRNA stability. In heterochromatin we find a subset of regulatory factors in carefully balanced concentrations that are maintained in part by the segregation of active and inactive domains. Histone H3 K9 methylation is key to this compartmentation.
C. elegans provides an ideal system in which to study chromatin-based gene repression. We have demonstrated that histone H3 K9 methylation is the essential signal for the sequestration of heterochromatin at the nuclear envelope in C. elegans. The recognition of H3K9me1/2/3 by an inner nuclear envelope-bound chromodomain protein, CEC-4, actively sequesters heterochromatin in embryos, and contributes redundantly in adult tissues.
Epiherigans has the ambitious goal to determine definitively what targets H3K9 methylation, and identify its physiological roles. We will examine how this mark contributes to the epigenetic recognition of repeat vs non-repeat sequence, and mediates a stress-induced response to oxidative damage. We will examine the link between these and the spatial clustering of heterochromatic domains. Epiherigans will develop an integrated approach to identify in vivo the factors that distinguish repeats from non-repeats, self from non-self within genomes and will examine how H3K9me contributes to a persistent ROS or DNA damage stress response. It represents a crucial step towards understanding of how our genomes use heterochromatin to modulate, stabilize and transmit chromatin organization. | [
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
10.1137/130938645 | Approximating K Median Via Pseudo Approximation | We present a novel approximation algorithm for $k$-median that achieves an approximation guarantee of $1+\sqrt{3}+\epsilon$, improving upon the decade-old ratio of $3+\epsilon$. Our improved approximation ratio is achieved by exploiting the power of pseudo-approximation. More specifically, our approach is based on two components, each of which, we believe, is of independent interest. First, we show that in order to give an $\alpha$-approximation algorithm for $k$-median, it is sufficient to give a pseudo-approximation algorithm that finds an $\alpha$-approximate solution by opening $k+O(1)$ facilities. This is a rather surprising result as there exist instances for which opening $k+1$ facilities may lead to a significantly smaller cost than that of opening only $k$ facilities. Second, we give such a pseudo-approximation algorithm with $\alpha=1+\sqrt{3}+\epsilon$. Prior to our work, it was not even known whether opening $k+o(k)$ facilities would help improve the approximation ratio. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1007/JHEP09(2013)020 | More On The Hypercharge Portal Into The Dark Sector | If the hidden sector contains more than one U(1) groups, additional dim-4 couplings (beyond the kinetic mixing) between the massive U(1) fields and the hypercharge generally appear. These are of the form similar to the Chern-Simons interactions. We study the phenomenology of such couplings including constraints from laboratory experiments and implications for dark matter. The hidden vector fields can play the role of dark matter whose characteristic signature would be monochromatic gamma ray emission from the galactic center. We show that this possibility is consistent with the LHC and other laboratory constraints, as well as astrophysical bounds. | [
"Fundamental Constituents of Matter",
"Universe Sciences"
]
|
10.1093/eurheartj/ehr119 | Regulation of adverse remodelling by osteopontin in a genetic heart failure model | Aims Desmin, the muscle-specific intermediate filament protein, is a major target in dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure in humans and mice. The hallmarks of desmin-deficient (des-/-) mice pathology include pronounced myocardial degeneration, extended fibrosis, and osteopontin (OPN) overexpression. We sought to identify the molecular and cellular events regulating adverse cardiac remodelling in des-/- mice and their potential link to OPN. Methods and resultsIn situ hybridization, histology, and immunostaining demonstrated that inflammatory cells and not cardiomyocytes were the source of OPN. RNA profile comparison revealed that activation of inflammatory pathways, sustained by innate immunity mechanisms, predominated among all changes occurring in degenerating des-/- myocardium. The expression of the most highly up-regulated genes (OPN: 226×, galectin-3: 26×, osteoactivin/Gpnmb/DC-HIL: 160× and metalloprotease-12: 98×) was associated with heart infiltrating macrophages. To evaluate the role of OPN, we generated des-/-OPN-/- mice and compared their cardiac function and remodelling indices with those of des-/-. Osteopontin promoted cardiac dysfunction in this model since des -/-OPN-/- mice showed 53 improvement of left ventricular function, paralleled to an up to 44 reduction in fibrosis. The diminished fibrotic response in the absence of OPN could be partly mediated by a dramatic reduction in myocardial galectin-3 levels, associated with an impaired galectin-3 secretion by OPN-deficient infiltrating macrophages. ConclusionCardiomyocyte death due to desmin deficiency leads to inflammation and subsequent overexpression of a series of remodelling modulators. Among them, OPN seems to be a major regulator of des-/- adverse myocardial remodelling and it functions at least by potentiating galectin-3 up-regulation and secretion. | [
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Physiology in Health, Disease and Ageing"
]
|
W4226284661 | Functional and Phenological Complementarities Resulting from Vegetation Heterogeneity Increase Resilience of Ungulate Populations to Climatic Variability in Mediterranean Ecosystems | Mediterranean environments are characterized by strong intra- and inter-annual fluctuations in plant primary production, which are likely to regulate the carrying capacity and densitydependent responses of ungulate populations. These effects may, however, vary across spatial and temporal scales. Habitat heterogeneity, particularly when associated to differentiated phenological responses, may allow wild ungulates to mitigate temporal fluctuations in plant productivity by using different resources along the year. In this work, we use a 15-years dataset (including remote-sensing data on vegetation distribution, phenology and production, as well as ungulate population counts) to assess how temporal variability in plant primary production and livestock abundance influence the population dynamics of two wild ungulates: native red deer, Cervus elaphus , and introduced fallow deer, Dama dama . Results show that temporal alternation in the phenological cycles of the four different vegetation types increased plant production, thus food availability for ungulates, within each year. Furthermore, complementarity in the responses of different vegetation types to variations in the amount and timing of rainfall increased the predictability of food availability across different years. This complementarity effect was further increased by the contrasting responses of ungulate populations to variation in the production of different vegetation types. Furthermore, domestic ungulates had positive effects on wild ungulate density at low to intermediate abundances, but high livestock densities decreased ungulate density and constrained the resilience of the plant-ungulate system to the impact of climatic variation, particularly under climate change. Our findings deepen the knowledge on vegetation-ungulate interactions in Mediterranean areas, potentially contributing to develop better management strategies of ungulate populations and adapt them to ongoing climate change. | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
10.1016/j.jbior.2018.09.012 | IL-7R-mediated signaling in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: An update | Interleukin 7 (IL-7) and its receptor (IL-7R, a heterodimer of IL-7Rα and γc) are essential for normal lymphoid development. In their absence, severe combined immunodeficiency occurs. By contrast, excessive IL-7/IL-7R-mediated signaling can drive lymphoid leukemia development, disease acceleration and resistance to chemotherapy. IL-7 and IL-7R activate three main pathways: STAT5, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MEK/Erk, ultimately leading to the promotion of leukemia cell viability, cell cycle progression and growth. However, the contribution of each of these pathways towards particular functional outcomes is still not completely known and appears to differ between normal and malignant states. For example, IL-7 upregulates Bcl-2 in a PI3K/Akt/mTOR-dependent and STAT5-independent manner in T-ALL cells. This is a ‘symmetric image’ of what apparently happens in normal lymphoid cells, where PI3K/Akt/mTOR does not impact on Bcl-2 and regulates proliferation rather than survival. In this review, we provide an updated summary of the knowledge on IL-7/IL-7R-mediated signaling in the context of cancer, focusing mainly on T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, where this axis has been more extensively studied. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration"
]
|
10.1021/jacs.6b10351 | Alkyl Bromides as Mild Hydride Sources in Ni-Catalyzed Hydroamidation of Alkynes with Isocyanates | A catalytic hydroamidation of alkynes with isocyanates using alkyl bromides as hydride sources has been developed. The method turns parasitic β-hydride elimination into a strategic advantage, rapidly affording acrylamides with excellent chemo- and regioselectivity. | [
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences"
]
|
W1990810077 | Significant Increase in 1-Year Posttransplant Renal Arterial Index Predicts Graft Loss | Conflicting data have been reported concerning the use of kidney graft arterial resistance index (RI) measured by Doppler to predict death-censored graft loss. We hypothesized that changes in RI values could carry better information than a single measure of RI.Four hundred twenty-five renal transplant recipients were included in the study. We tested whether changes in renal arterial resistance index between 4 and 12 months after transplant (ΔRI(4→12)) were predictive of graft loss.Neither 4-month nor 1-year RI predicted graft loss. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of ΔRI(4→12) for graft loss was 0.75. A ΔRI(4→12) ≥10% had the best sensitivity and specificity. One year after transplant, 22% of the study population had ΔRI(4→12) ≥10%. Fifty-five patients (12.9%) experienced graft loss during follow-up. The annual incidence of graft loss was higher in patients with ΔRI(4→12) ≥10% (3.5 versus 1.3%; P = 0.009). In multivariate analysis, patients with ΔRI(4→12) ≥10% had an increased risk of graft loss (hazard ratio, 6.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.99 to 22.15; P = 0.002).A variation in RI ≥10% in the first year after transplant is an independent risk factor for death-censored graft loss in renal transplant recipients. | [
"Physiology in Health, Disease and Ageing",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
W1976081829 | The role of the induction zone on the detonation–turbulence linear interaction | Detonation–turbulence linear interaction analysis extends the non-reactive shock–turbulence analog by considering geometrical scaling of the noise with respect to the half-reaction distance. The analysis emphasizes the effect of structure in energizing selective frequencies, and determining acoustic amplification in the farfield. Natural frequencies are determined as eigenvalues of the inviscid non-forced interaction problem. They modify postshock energy spectra by supporting resonant amplification, and cast light on the role of the activation energy on the detonation–turbulence interaction. Detonations with higher activation energies amplify smaller scales by resonant amplification. An analysis of the bifurcation parameters reveals a strong link between detonation overdrive and acoustic attenuation. The damping is correlated with the subcritical nature of the characteristic solutions for high overdrives. For detonation conditions on the stability boundary, a larger overdrive supports a weaker resonant pe... | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Condensed Matter Physics"
]
|
FR 9800634 W | LOCK WITH ELECTRONIC CONTROL | The invention concerns a lock with electronic control wherein the nut or bit (7) can be coupled with the plugs (13, 24) and the handles (12) or keys (75) by means of a coupling rod (33) sliding inside the nut or bit (7) and the plugs (13, 24). When the data entered with the key (75) coincide with the data known to the lock, the electronic control (53) delivers a validation signal triggering a linear actuator (36) which acts on the coupling rod (33) moving it between positions of which one is operative and the other inoperative. | [
"Systems and Communication Engineering",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.1145/1449913.1449935 | Polymorphic Embedding Of Dsls | The influential pure embedding methodology of embedding domain-specific languages (DSLs) as libraries into a general-purpose host language forces the DSL designer to commit to a single semantics. This precludes the subsequent addition of compilation, optimization or domain-specific analyses. We propose polymorphic embedding of DSLs, where many different interpretations of a DSL can be provided as reusable components, and show how polymorphic embedding can be realized in the programming language Scala. With polymorphic embedding, the static type-safety, modularity, composability and rapid prototyping of pure embedding are reconciled with the flexibility attainable by external toolchains. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1073/pnas.1510249112 | Control of cerebellar granule cell output by sensory-evoked Golgi cell inhibition | Classical feed-forward inhibition involves an excitation–inhibition sequence that enhances the temporal precision of neuronal responses by narrowing the window for synaptic integration. In the input layer of the cerebellum, feed-forward inhibition is thought to preserve the temporal fidelity of granule cell spikes during mossy fiber stimulation. Although this classical feed-forward inhibitory circuit has been demonstrated in vitro, the extent to which inhibition shapes granule cell sensory responses in vivo remains unresolved. Here we combined whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in vivo and dynamic clamp recordings in vitro to directly assess the impact of Golgi cell inhibition on sensory information transmission in the granule cell layer of the cerebellum. We show that the majority of granule cells in Crus II of the cerebrocerebellum receive sensory-evoked phasic and spillover inhibition prior to mossy fiber excitation. This preceding inhibition reduces granule cell excitability and sensory-evoked spike precision, but enhances sensory response reproducibility across the granule cell population. Our findings suggest that neighboring granule cells and Golgi cells can receive segregated and functionally distinct mossy fiber inputs, enabling Golgi cells to regulate the size and reproducibility of sensory responses. | [
"Neuroscience and Disorders of the Nervous System",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration"
]
|
10.1111/gcb.12160 | How much land-based greenhouse gas mitigation can be achieved without compromising food security and environmental goals? | Feeding 9-10 billion people by 2050 and preventing dangerous climate change are two of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Both challenges must be met while reducing the impact of land management on ecosystem services that deliver vital goods and services, and support human health and well-being. Few studies to date have considered the interactions between these challenges. In this study we briefly outline the challenges, review the supply- and demand-side climate mitigation potential available in the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use AFOLU sector and options for delivering food security. We briefly outline some of the synergies and trade-offs afforded by mitigation practices, before presenting an assessment of the mitigation potential possible in the AFOLU sector under possible future scenarios in which demand-side measures codeliver to aid food security. We conclude that while supply-side mitigation measures, such as changes in land management, might either enhance or negatively impact food security, demand-side mitigation measures, such as reduced waste or demand for livestock products, should benefit both food security and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation. Demand-side measures offer a greater potential (1. 5-15. 6 Gt CO2-eq. yr-1) in meeting both challenges than do supply-side measures (1. 5-4. 3 Gt CO2-eq. yr-1 at carbon prices between 20 and 100 US$ tCO2-eq. yr-1), but given the enormity of challenges, all options need to be considered. Supply-side measures should be implemented immediately, focussing on those that allow the production of more agricultural product per unit of input. For demand-side measures, given the difficulties in their implementation and lag in their effectiveness, policy should be introduced quickly, and should aim to codeliver to other policy agenda, such as improving environmental quality or improving dietary health. These problems facing humanity in the 21st Century are extremely challenging, and policy that addresses multiple objectives is required now more than ever. | [
"Earth System Science",
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems"
]
|
10.1107/S2053273316020350 | A theoretical investigation of orientation relationships and transformation strains in steels | The identification of orientation relationships (ORs) plays a crucial role in the understanding of solid phase transformations. In steels, the most common models of ORs are the ones by Nishiyama-Wassermann (NW) and Kurdjumov-Sachs (KS). The defining feature of these and other OR models is the matching of directions and planes in the parent face-centred cubic γ phase to ones in the product body-centred cubic/tetragonal α/α′ phase. In this article a novel method that identifies transformation strains with ORs is introduced and used to develop a new strain-based approach to phase-transformation models in steels. Using this approach, it is shown that the transformation strains that leave a close-packed plane in the γ phase and a close-packed direction within that plane unrotated are precisely those giving rise to the NW and KS ORs when a cubic product phase is considered. Further, it is outlined how, by choosing different pairs of unrotated planes and directions, other common ORs such as the ones by Pitsch and Greninger-Troiano can be derived. One of the advantages of our approach is that it leads to a natural generalization of the NW, KS and other ORs for different ratios of tetragonality r of the product body-centred tetragonal α′ phase. These generalized ORs predict a sharpening of the transformation textures with increasing tetragonality and are thus in qualitative agreement with experiments on steels with varying alloy concentration. A unified approach to derive transformation strains and orientation-relationship models in steels is presented. This unified approach is used to derive the Nishiyama-Wassermann, Kurdjumov-Sachs and other models, and extend them naturally to the situation of a tetragonal α′ phase. | [
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Materials Engineering"
]
|
714623 | Illuminating Functional Networks and Keystone Species in the Gut | We live in an intimate symbiosis with our gut microbiota, which provides us services such as vitamin production, breakdown of dietary compounds, and immune training. Sequencing-based approaches that have been applied to catalogue the gut microbiota have revealed intriguing discoveries associating the microbiome with diet and disease. The next outstanding challenge is to unravel the many activities and interactions that define gut microbiota function.
The gut microbiota is a diverse community of cooperating and competing microbes. These interactions form a network that links organisms with each other and their environment. Interactions in such a “functional network” are based partially, though not exclusively, on food webs. Certain “keystone species”, such as Rumonicoccus bromii, are thought to play a major role in these networks. Though some evidence exists for the presence of keystone species, their identity and activity remains largely unknown. As keystone species are vital to networks they are ideal targets for manipulating the gut microbiota to improve metabolic health and protect against enteropathogen infection.
Given the complexity of the gut microbiota, networks can only be elucidated directly in the native community. This project aims to identify functional networks and keystone species in the human gut using novel approaches that are uniquely and ideally suited for studying microbial activity in complex communities. Using state-of-the-art methods such as stable isotope labeling, Raman microspectroscopy, and secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) we will illuminate functional networks in situ. This will allow us to identify what factors shape gut microbiota activity, reveal important food webs, and ultimately use network knowledge to target the microbiota with prebiotic/probiotic treatments rationally designed to promote health. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems",
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Physiology in Health, Disease and Ageing",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1007/JHEP02(2018)117 | Fibre Inflation And Α Attractors | Fibre inflation is a specific string theory construction based on the Large Volume Scenario that produces an inflationary plateau. We outline its relation to α-attractor models for inflation, with the cosmological sector originating from certain string theory corrections leading to α = 2 and α = 1/2. Above a certain field range, the steepening effect of higher-order corrections leads first to the breakdown of single-field slow-roll and after that to the onset of 2-field dynamics: the overall volume of the extra dimensions starts to participate in the effective dynamics. Finally, we propose effective supergravity models of fibre inflation based on an $$ \overline{D3} $$
uplift term with a nilpotent superfield. Specific moduli dependent $$ \overline{D3} $$
induced geometries lead to cosmological fibre models but have in addition a de Sitter minimum exit. These supergravity models motivated by fibre inflation are relatively simple, stabilize the axions and disentangle the Hubble parameter from supersymmetry breaking. | [
"Fundamental Constituents of Matter",
"Universe Sciences"
]
|
10.1086/670589 | Repeated Parallel Evolution Reveals Limiting Similarity In Subterranean Diving Beetles | AbstractThe theory of limiting similarity predicts that co-occurring species must be sufficiently different to coexist. Although this idea is a staple of community ecology, convincing empirical evidence has been scarce. Here we examine 34 subterranean beetle communities in arid inland Australia that share the same habitat type but have evolved in complete isolation over the past 5 million years. Although these communities come from a range of phylogenetic origins, we find that they have almost invariably evolved to share a similar size structure. The relative positions of coexisting species on the body size axis were significantly more regular across communities than would be expected by chance, with a size ratio, on average, of 1. 6 between coexisting species. By contrast, species’ absolute body sizes varied substantially from one community to the next. This suggests that self-organized spacing according to limiting-similarity theory, as opposed to evolution toward preexisting fixed niches, shaped the com. . . | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution"
]
|
10.1103/PhysRevLett.114.080403 | Systematic errors in current quantum state tomography tools | Common tools for obtaining physical density matrices in experimental quantum state tomography are shown here to cause systematic errors. For example, using maximum likelihood or least squares optimization to obtain physical estimates for the quantum state, we observe a systematic underestimation of the fidelity and an overestimation of entanglement. Such strongly biased estimates can be avoided using linear evaluation of the data or by linearizing measurement operators yielding reliable and computational simple error bounds. | [
"Fundamental Constituents of Matter",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1084/jem.20161451 | Detection of interferon alpha protein reveals differential levels and cellular sources in disease | Type I interferons (IFNs) are essential mediators of antiviral responses. These cytokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmunity, most notably systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), diabetes mellitus, and dermatomyositis, as well as monogenic type I interferonopathies. Despite a fundamental role in health and disease, the direct quantification of type I IFNs has been challenging. Using single-molecule array (Simoa) digital ELISA technology, we recorded attomolar concentrations of IFNα in healthy donors, viral infection, and complex and monogenic interferonopathies. IFNα protein correlated well with functional activity and IFN-stimulated gene expression. High circulating IFNα levels were associated with increased clinical severity in SLE patients, and a study of the cellular source of IFNα protein indicated disease-specific mechanisms. Measurement of IFNα attomolar concentrations by digital ELISA will enhance our understanding of IFN biology and potentially improve the diagnosis and stratification of pathologies associated with IFN dysregulation. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
10.1111/ele.12794 | Less favourable climates constrain demographic strategies in plants | Correlative species distribution models are based on the observed relationship between species’ occurrence and macroclimate or other environmental variables. In climates predicted less favourable populations are expected to decline, and in favourable climates they are expected to persist. However, little comparative empirical support exists for a relationship between predicted climate suitability and population performance. We found that the performance of 93 populations of 34 plant species worldwide – as measured by in situ population growth rate, its temporal variation and extinction risk – was not correlated with climate suitability. However, correlations of demographic processes underpinning population performance with climate suitability indicated both resistance and vulnerability pathways of population responses to climate: in less suitable climates, plants experienced greater retrogression (resistance pathway) and greater variability in some demographic rates (vulnerability pathway). While a range of demographic strategies occur within species’ climatic niches, demographic strategies are more constrained in climates predicted to be less suitable. | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
221670 | Environmentally efficient full profile drilling solution | The overall vision of the ECO-DRILLING project is to prototype, pilot, and commercialise our cost-effective and environmentally friendly full profile directional drilling technology for the global hydropower sector. ECO-DRILLING is the only solution capable of drilling upwards over long distances and high heads (up to 2km drilling length-1km altitude difference) using a non-rotatory drill string. Our disruptive technology has the potential to cut annual CO2 emissions with 13,860 tonnes in 5 years according to our sales proyections, reduce the environmental impact of drilling operations (e.g. by eliminating the need for building temporary access roads to the mountain top), and drilling costs by 50%. ECO-DRILLING will support the development of hydropower plants at locations currently unfeasible due to technical or environmental challenges.
We have defined a subset of specific objectives covering final prototyping, validation, and commercialisation readiness activities. Achieving them will bring us to a wide market uptake.
1) Technology maturation objectives (WP1) to optimise the functionalities of ECO-DRILLING’s subsystems and integrate them into the final prototype to be piloted in real-life settings, raising ECO-DRILLING TRL from TRL7 to TRL8.
2) Piloting and validation objectives (WP2) to demonstrate ECO-DRILLING’s technical and economic performance, functionality, and user benefits through a large-scale piloting in real-life operating settings, elevating eco-drilling from TRL8 to TRL9.
3) Commercialisation readiness objectives (WP3-6) enabling us to successfully bring the ECO-DRILLING service to the market and reach sales traction beyond Phase 2.
Through the ECO-DRILLING SME Phase 2 project we will significantly boost the growth in our company. We estimate that by year 5 after project closure, we will reach accumulated revenues of €138.0m, generate at least 37 new full-time positions, and accumulate profits of €61.5m, with 6.42 ROI. | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution"
]
|
10.1038/s41570-019-0116-0 | Organocatalysis in aqueous media | Even though enzymes are the cornerstones of living systems, it has so far proven difficult to deploy artificial catalysts in a biological setting. Organocatalysts are arguably well-suited artificial catalysts for this purpose because, compared with enzymes and inorganic catalysts, they are simpler, often less toxic and widely accessible. This Review describes how organocatalysts that operate in aqueous media might enable us to selectively access new chemical transformations and provide new possibilities for chemical biology and biomedicine. Organocatalysts can be categorized according to the mechanisms by which they activate substrates, drawing comparisons with enzymes. We describe the characteristics of a catalyst that are necessary for biological compatibility and in vivo applicability, and use these to evaluate a selection of organocatalytic reactions. The attributes of the catalyst (such as functional groups and pKa values) and the reaction (such as the microenvironment surrounding intermediates) are key considerations when developing efficient organocatalysis in aqueous media. Although we only know of a limited set of organocatalytic reactions with biological potential, on the basis of recent developments we expect a bright future for organocatalysis in biology, to the benefit of chemical biology and biomedicine. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials"
]
|
10.1093/cercor/bhv306 | Evidence for a Caregiving Instinct: Rapid Differentiation of Infant from Adult Vocalizations Using Magnetoencephalography | Crying is the most salient vocal signal of distress. The cries of a newborn infant alert adult listeners and often elicit caregiving behavior. For the parent, rapid responding to an infant in distress is an adaptive behavior, functioning to ensure offspring survival. The ability to react rapidly requires quick recognition and evaluation of stimuli followed by a co-ordinated motor response. Previous neuroimaging research has demonstrated early specialized activity in response to infant faces. Using magnetoencephalography, we found similarly early (100-200 ms) differences in neural responses to infant and adult cry vocalizations in auditory, emotional, and motor cortical brain regions. We propose that this early differential activity may help to rapidly identify infant cries and engage affective and motor neural circuitry to promote adaptive behavioral responding, before conscious awareness. These differenceswere observed in adults whowere not parents, perhaps indicative of a universal brain-based "caregiving instinct. " | [
"Neuroscience and Disorders of the Nervous System",
"The Human Mind and Its Complexity"
]
|
10.1109/ICIEA.2018.8397848 | Comparison Of Voltage Support Services By Means Of Statcom And Smart Transformer In Medium Voltage Grid | Due to the increasing demand of electrical energy, especially in urban areas, the traditional distribution power grid reaches its limitations of operation (e. g. large current flow or voltage deviation). The distribution grid needs to be upgraded to ensure stability margin of operation. Since the cost of space is expensive and there is also resistance against installation of extra equipment from local resident, to install new equipment in distribution grid becomes difficult. The choice of new device to support the grid must consider not only the services but also the cost of equipment and space. The devices based on power electronics (STATCOM, smart transformer (ST)) are able to provide ancillary services such as voltage support to medium voltage (MV) distribution grid. In this paper, the ST is analyzed and compared with the STATCOM in terms of cost and performance. By means of literature review and simulation, the performance of ST has been analyzed. The result shows that the ST provides more services to assist the control in distribution grid than STATCOM. In order to achieve the same performance of voltage support, the investment of ST is less. | [
"Systems and Communication Engineering",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.1103/PhysRevFluids.1.044402 | Vortex shedding effects in grid-generated turbulence | The flow on the centerline of grid-generated turbulence is characterized via hot-wire anemometry for three grids with different geometry: a regular grid (RG60), a fractal grid (FSG17), and a single-square grid (SSG). Due to a higher value of the thickness t0 of its bars, SSG produces greater values of turbulence intensity Tu than FSG17, despite SSG having a smaller blockage ratio. However, the higher Tu for SSG is mainly due to a more pronounced vortex shedding contribution. The effects of vortex shedding suppression along the streamwise direction x are studied by testing a three-dimensional configuration, formed by SSG and a set of four splitter plates detached from the grid (SSG+SP). When vortex shedding is damped, the centerline location of the peak of turbulence intensity xpeak moves downstream and Tu considerably decreases in the production region. For FSG17 the vortex shedding is less intense and it disappears more quickly, in terms of x/xpeak, when compared to all the other configurations. When vortex shedding is attenuated, the integral length scale Lu grows more slowly in the streamwise direction, this being verified both for FSG17 and for SSG+SP. In the production region, there is a correlation between the vortex shedding energy and the skewness and the flatness of the velocity fluctuations. When vortex shedding is not significant, the skewness is highly negative and the flatness is much larger than 3. On the opposite side, when vortex shedding is prominent, the non-Gaussian behavior of the velocity fluctuations becomes masked. | [
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.1038/s41565-018-0336-3 | Binding to nanopatterned antigens is dominated by the spatial tolerance of antibodies | Although repetitive patterns of antigens are crucial for certain immune responses, an understanding of how antibodies bind and dynamically interact with various spatial arrangements of molecules is lacking. Hence, we introduced a new method in which molecularly precise nanoscale patterns of antigens are displayed using DNA origami and immobilized in a surface plasmon resonance set-up. Using antibodies with identical antigen-binding domains, we found that all the subclasses and isotypes studied bind bivalently to two antigens separated at distances that range from 3 to 17 nm. The binding affinities of these antibodies change with the antigen distances, with a distinct preference for antigens separated by approximately 16 nm, and considerable differences in spatial tolerance exist between IgM and IgG and between low- and high-affinity antibodies. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
W2141929838 | Electro-thermal Modeling of Lithium ion Batteries | In this paper, the electro-thermal model of Lithium-ion battery for electric vehicles and its related application were studied. The spatial variations of electrode parameter and the reaction heat generated inside battery must be considered when developing an electro-thermal model of Lithium-ion battery for electric vehicles, to ensure the applicability of the developed model under different operating conditions. The results showed that: with increasing state of charge, the spatial variations of net reaction current density, lithium ion concentration on the surface of active material particles, activation overpotential, equilibrium electrode potential and electrical potential of solid phase are reduced, but the spatial variation of electrical potential of electrolyte phase is enlarged. DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.11591/telkomnika.v12i5.5016 | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Systems and Communication Engineering"
]
|
10.1016/j.cageo.2014.06.006 | Correlation of oscillatory behaviour in Matlab using wavelets | Here we present a novel computational signal processing approach for comparing two signals of equal length and sampling rate, suitable for application across widely varying areas within the geosciences. By performing a continuous wavelet transform (CWT) followed by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient analysis, a graphical depiction of links between periodicities present in the two signals is generated via two or three dimensional images. In comparison with alternate approaches, e. g. , wavelet coherence, this technique is simpler to implement and provides far clearer visual identification of the inter-series relationships. In particular, we report on a Matlab® code which executes this technique, and examples are given which demonstrate the programme application with artificially generated signals of known periodicity characteristics as well as with acquired geochemical and meteorological datasets. | [
"Computer Science and Informatics",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
10.1146/annurev-publhealth-032013-182443 | Nature and health | Urbanization, resource exploitation, and lifestyle changes have diminished possibilities for human contact with nature in urbanized societies. Concern about the loss has helped motivate research on the health benefits of contact with nature. Reviewing that research here, we focus on nature as represented by aspects of the physical environment relevant to planning, design, and policy measures that serve broad segments of urbanized societies. We discuss difficulties in defining "nature" and reasons for the current expansion of the research field, and we assess available reviews. We then consider research on pathways between nature and health involving air quality, physical activity, social cohesion, and stress reduction. Finally, we discuss methodological issues and priorities for future research. The extant research does describe an array of benefits of contact with nature, and evidence regarding some benefits is strong; however, some findings indicate caution is needed in applying beliefs about those benefits, and substantial gaps in knowledge remain. | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Human Mobility, Environment, and Space",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1186/s12864-015-1632-z | Unearthing the genomes of plant-beneficial Pseudomonas model strains WCS358, WCS374 and WCS417 | Background: Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can protect plants against pathogenic microbes through a diversity of mechanisms including competition for nutrients, production of antibiotics, and stimulation of the host immune system, a phenomenon called induced systemic resistance (ISR). In the past 30 years, the Pseudomonas spp. PGPR strains WCS358, WCS374 and WCS417 of the Willie Commelin Scholten (WCS) collection have been studied in detail in pioneering papers on the molecular basis of PGPR-mediated ISR and mechanisms of biological control of soil-borne pathogens via siderophore-mediated competition for iron. Results: The genomes of the model WCS PGPR strains were sequenced and analyzed to unearth genetic cues related to biological questions that surfaced during the past 30 years of functional studies on these plant-beneficial microbes. Whole genome comparisons revealed important novel insights into iron acquisition strategies with consequences for both bacterial ecology and plant protection, specifics of bacterial determinants involved in plant-PGPR recognition, and diversity of protein secretion systems involved in microbe-microbe and microbe-plant communication. Furthermore, multi-locus sequence alignment and whole genome comparison revealed the taxonomic position of the WCS model strains within the Pseudomonas genus. Despite the enormous diversity of Pseudomonas spp. in soils, several plant-associated Pseudomonas spp. strains that have been isolated from different hosts at different geographic regions appear to be nearly isogenic to WCS358, WCS374, or WCS417. Interestingly, all these WCS look-a-likes have been selected because of their plant protective or plant growth-promoting properties. Conclusions: The genome sequences of the model WCS strains revealed that they can be considered representatives of universally-present plant-beneficial Pseudomonas spp. With their well-characterized functions in the promotion of plant growth and health, the fully sequenced genomes of the WCS strains provide a genetic framework that allows for detailed analysis of the biological mechanisms of the plant-beneficial traits of these PGPR. Considering the increasing focus on the role of the root microbiome in plant health, functional genomics of the WCS strains will enhance our understanding of the diversity of functions of the root microbiome. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems",
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution"
]
|
10.1109/JSTARS.2015.2405095 | Description Of Cotcat Complement To Crism Analysis Toolkit | Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) hyperspectral data have a spatial resolution ranging from 12 to 36 m/pixel allowing the high-resolution mapping of minerals at the surface of Mars. However, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) makes the discrimination of minerals with close spectral signature such as hydrated minerals challenging. We describe here a pipeline to be used as complement to CRISM Analysis Toolkit (CAT) together with different ratioing methods used to highlight the signal. We present tests on library spectra artificially noised as well as on CRISM data. These tests show that our pipeline is efficient to improve the visualization and the qualitative analysis CRISM data with an SNR higher than 20. | [
"Universe Sciences",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
175433 | Dna mimetics: synthetic molecular duplexes | Precise control of macroscopic properties at molecular level is one of the biggest challenges of modern science. Nature accomplishes this by adding information to matter, and organizes chemical system of nonliving components into living, biological systems. Inspired by the most fascinating nature’s information system, the DNA, and using its basic structural elements, modular and highly flexible synthesis of novel chemical information carrying system will be performed. This will enable the preparation of the desired sequence of H-bonding recognition sites. The prepared short oligomeric sequences will be used to explore robustness of synthetic sequences for the formation of duplexes. By quantitative assessment of multivalent recognition of complementary sequences and imperfections in the duplex formation of non-complementary and defective sequences, valuable information on the structural features and fidelity of supramolecular assembly formation of various sequences will be obtained. This will give insight into reliability and predictability, in other words programmability, of the proposed synthetic recognition sequences to form molecular duplexes. Reliable formation of synthetic duplexes would allow precise control over supramolecular interactions and will lay the foundation for formation of smart advanced materials with unprecedented mechanical, electronic and photochemical properties. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials"
]
|
3726335 | Showcasing synergies between agriculture, biodiversity and ecosystem services to help farmers capitalising on native biodiversity | The slow adoption by the agricultural sector of practices to promote biodiversity are thought to originate from three interrelated issues. First, we know little about which incentives effectively motivate farmers to integrate biodiversity into daily farm management. Second, few studies so far have produced evidence that biodiversity-based approaches produce benefits in terms of key variables for farmers (yield, profit). Third, there is a large communication gap between the scientists investigating biodiversity-based farming practices and the farmers that have to implement them.
To overcome these barriers, SHOWCASE will review and test the effectiveness of a range of economic and societal incentives to implement biodiversity management in farming operations and examine farmer and public acceptance. Focus will be on three promising approaches: (i) result-based incentives, (ii) involvement in citizen science biodiversity monitoring and (iii) biodiversity-based business models. SHOWCASE will co-produce together with stakeholders a solid interdisciplinary evidence for the agro-ecological and socio-economic benefits of biodiversity management in 10 contrasting farming systems across Europe. SHOWCASE will also design communication strategies that are tailor-made to farmers and other key stakeholders operating in different socio-economic and environmental conditions.
SHOWCASE will develop a multi-actor network of 10 Experimental Biodiversity Areas in contrasting European farming systems that will be used for in-situ research on biodiversity incentives and evidence for benefits as well as knowledge exchange. This network will be used to identify and test biodiversity indicators and targets relevant to all stakeholders and use them in a learning-by-doing approach to improve benefits of biodiversity management on farms both within the network and beyond. | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
10.1093/mnras/stx945 | Revealing the ultrafast outflow in IRAS 13224-3809 through spectral variability | We present an analysis of the long-term X-ray variability of the extreme narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy IRAS 13224-3809 using principal component analysis (PCA) and fractional excess variability (Fvar) spectra to identify model-independent spectral components. We identify a series of variability peaks in both the first PCA component and Fvar spectrum which correspond to the strongest predicted absorption lines from the ultrafast outflow (UFO) discovered by Parker et al. (2017). We also find higher order PCA components, which correspond to variability of the soft excess and reflection features. The subtle differences between RMS and PCA results argue that the observed flux-dependence of the absorption is due to increased ionization of the gas, rather than changes in column density or covering fraction. This result demonstrates that we can detect outflows from variability alone and that variability studies of UFOs are an extremely promising avenue for future research. | [
"Universe Sciences",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences"
]
|
W1565017369 | shRNA-Mediated Silencing of Y-Box Binding Protein-1 (YB-1) Suppresses Growth of Neuroblastoma Cell SH-SY5Y In Vitro and In Vivo | Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1), a member of cold-shock protein superfamily, has been demonstrated to be associated with tumor malignancy, and is proposed as a prognostic marker in multiple carcinomas. However, the role of YB-1 in neuroblastoma has not been well studied. To investigate the functional role of YB-1 in neuroblastoma, we established a YB-1-silenced neuroblastoma cell strain by inhibiting YB-1 expression using a shRNA knockdown approach. YB-1-silenced neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells exhibited a pronounced reduction in cell proliferation and an increased rate of apoptosis in vitro and in vivo xenograft tumor model. At molecular level, YB-1 silencing resulted in downregulation of Cyclin A, Cyclin D1 and Bcl-2, as well as upregulated levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP-1. We further demonstrated that YB-1 transcriptionally regulated Cyclin D1 expression by chromatin-immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. In addition, xenograft tumors derived from neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line were treated with YB-1 shRNA plasmids by intra-tumor injection, and YB-1 targeting effectively inhibited tumor growth and induced cell death. In summary, our findings suggest that YB-1 plays a critical role in neuroblastoma development, and it may serve as a potential target for neuroblastoma therapy. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1093/nar/gkv196 | The ribonucleotidyl transferase USIP-1 acts with SART3 to promote U6 snRNA recycling | The spliceosome is a large molecular machine that serves to remove the intervening sequences that are present in most eukaryotic pre-mRNAs. At its core are five small nuclear ribonucleoprotein complexes, the U1, U2, U4, U5 and U6 snRNPs, which undergo dynamic rearrangements during splicing. Their reutilization for subsequent rounds of splicing requires reversion to their original configurations, but little is known about this process. Here, we show that ZK863. 4/USIP-1 (U Six snRNA-Interacting Protein-1) is a ribonucleotidyl transferase that promotes accumulation of the Caenorhabditis elegans U6 snRNA. Endogenous USIP-1-U6 snRNA complexes lack the Lsm proteins that constitute the protein core of the U6 snRNP, but contain the U6 snRNP recycling factor SART3/B0035. 12. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation experiments suggest that SART3 but not USIP-1 occurs also in a separate complex containing both the U4 and U6 snRNPs. Based on this evidence, genetic interaction between usip-1 and sart-3, and the apparent dissociation of Lsm proteins from the U6 snRNA during spliceosome activation, we propose that USIP-1 functions upstream of SART3 to promote U6 snRNA recycling. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems"
]
|
10.1002/chem.201601080 | Guest-, Light- and Thermally-Modulated Spin Crossover in [Fe<sup>II</sup><inf>2</inf>] Supramolecular Helicates | A new bis(pyrazolylpyridine) ligand (H2L) has been prepared to form functional [Fe2(H2L)3]4+metallohelicates. Changes to the synthesis yield six derivatives, X@[Fe2(H2L)3]X(PF6)2⋅xCH3OH (1, x=5. 7 and X=Cl; 2, x=4 and X=Br), X@[Fe2(H2L)3]X(PF6)2⋅yCH3OH⋅H2O (1 a, y=3 and X=Cl; 2 a, y=1 and X=Br) and X@[Fe2(H2L)3](I3)2⋅3 Et2O (1 b, X=Cl; 2 b, X=Br). Their structure and functional properties are described in detail by single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments at several temperatures. Helicates 1 a and 2 a are obtained from 1 and 2, respectively, by a single-crystal-to-single-crystal mechanism. The three possible magnetic states, [LS–LS], [LS–HS], and [HS–HS] can be accessed over large temperature ranges as a result of the structural nonequivalence of the FeIIcenters. The nature of the guest (Cl−vs. Br−) shifts the spin crossover (SCO) temperature by roughly 40 K. Also, metastable [LS–HS] or [HS–HS] states are generated through irradiation. All helicates (X@[Fe2(H2L)3])3+persist in solution. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Condensed Matter Physics"
]
|
10.1016/j.diamond.2012.01.022 | Analytical TEM study of CVD diamond growth on TiO <inf>2</inf> sol-gel layers | The early growth stages of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond on a sol-gel TiO 2 film with buried ultra dispersed diamond seeds (UDD) have been studied. In order to investigate the diamond growth mechanism and understand the role of the TiO 2 layer in the growth process, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy-filtered TEM and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) techniques were applied to cross sectional diamond film samples. We find evidence for the formation of TiC crystallites inside the TiO 2 layer at different diamond growth stages. However, there is no evidence that diamond nucleation starts from these crystallites. Carbon diffusion into the TiO 2 layer and the chemical bonding state of carbon (sp 2/sp 3) were both extensively investigated. We provide evidence that carbon diffuses through the TiO 2 layer and that the diamond seeds partially convert to amorphous carbon during growth. This carbon diffusion and diamond to amorphous carbon conversion make the seed areas below the TiO 2 layer grow and bend the TiO 2 layer upwards to form the nucleation center of the diamond film. In some of the protuberances a core of diamond seed remains, covered by amorphous carbon. It is however unlikely that the remaining seeds are still active during the growth process. | [
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Synthetic Chemistry and Materials"
]
|
990296 | A pooled crispri screen to identify new cell cycle proteins in the opportunistic human pathogen streptococcus pneumoniae | There is much truth in the ancient Chinese saying; “if you want to win the battle, you have to know your enemy”. When it comes to bacterial infections, we often don’t know our enemy very well and we are losing. Despite our best efforts to combat Streptococcus pneumoniae infections, this opportunistic pathogen remains a serious threat to human health, killing over 826 000 children each year and causing severe illness in 14 million more. Mankind is therefore in desperate need of novel therapies that can eradicate S. pneumoniae infections. The search for these therapies, however, is impeded by the lack of insight into the life cycle of this important pathogen. In this proposal, I therefore aim to generate unprecedented insight into the S. pneumoniae cell cycle. I will do so by performing an innovative pooled CRISPRi (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats Interference) screen combined with FACS (Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting) to assess the effect of downregulation of all S. pneumoniae genes on important cell cycle parameters such as cell morphology, DNA content and the formation of the Z-ring that is required for cell division. This genome-wide screen will reveal several gene products that are important for the correct progression of the S. pneumoniae cell cycle. I will further characterize the most promising targets to unravel their cell cycle-related function at the molecular level. Moreover, newly-identified gene products that are important for cell cycle progression could be interesting novel drug targets. The efficacy of these prospective targets will be validated in an in vivo infection model in Galleria mellonella (wax moth) larvae. In the future, these candidates can be used as a starting point for the development of novel and effective therapies. Besides generating valuable fundamental insight into the S. pneumoniae cell cycle, the results of this project will thus also assist in our fight against this notorious pathogen. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration"
]
|
10.1109/LRA.2017.2700059 | Ark Augmented Reality For Kilobots | Working with large swarms of robots has challenges in calibration, sensing, tracking, and control due to the associated scalability and time requirements. Kilobots solve this through their ease of maintenance and programming, and are widely used in several research laboratories worldwide where their low cost enables large-scale swarms studies. However, the small, inexpensive nature of the Kilobots limits their range of capabilities as they are only equipped with a single sensor. In some studies, this limitation can be a source of motivation and inspiration, while in others it is an impediment. As such, we designed, implemented, and tested a novel system to communicate personalized location-and-state-based information to each robot, and receive information on each robots' state. In this way, the Kilobots can sense additional information from a virtual environment in real time; for example, a value on a gradient, a direction toward a reference point or a pheromone trail. The augmented reality for Kilobots (ARK) system implements this in flexible base control software which allows users to define varying virtual environments within a single experiment using integrated overhead tracking and control. We showcase the different functionalities of the system through three demos involving hundreds of Kilobots. The ARK provides Kilobots with additional and unique capabilities through an open-source tool which can be implemented with inexpensive, off-the-shelf hardware. | [
"Systems and Communication Engineering",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1007/JHEP10(2013)143 | Study of B<sup>0</sup><inf>(s)</inf> → K<sup>0</sup><inf>S</inf> h<sup>+</sup>h<sup>'-</sup> decays with first observation of B<sup>0</sup><inf>s</inf> → K<sup>0</sup><inf>S</inf> K<sup>±</sup> π<sup>±</sup> and B<sup>0</sup><inf>s</inf> → K<sup>0</sup><inf>S</inf> π<sup>+</sup> π<sup>-</sup> | A search for charmless three-body decays of B0 and B 0s mesons with a K0S meson in the final state is performed using the pp collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 1:0 fb-1, collected at a centre-of-mass energy of 7TeV recorded by the LHCb experiment. Branching fractions of the B0(s) → K0S h+h'- decay modes (h(') = π,K), relative to the well measured B 0 → K0Sπ+π- decay, are obtained. First observation of the decay modes B0s → K0S K±π ± and B0s → K0Sπ+ π- and confirmation of the decay B0 → K0SK±π ± are reported. The following relative branching fraction measurements or limits are obtained B(B0 → K0S K±π±)/B(B0 → K0Sπ+ π-)=0:128 ± 0:017 (stat:) ± 0:009 (syst:) ; B(B0 → K0S K+K-)/B(B0 → K0Sπ+ π-)= 0:385 ± 0:031 (stat:) ± 0:023 (syst:) ; B(B0s → K0Sπ+ π-)/B(B0 → K 0Sπ+ π-)=0:29 ± 0:06 (stat:) ± 0:03 (syst:) ± 0:02 (fs=fd) ; B(B0s → K0sK±π ±)/B(B0 → K0Sπ +π-)= = 1:48 ± 0:12 (stat:) ± 0:08 (syst:) ± 0:12 (fs=fd) ; B(B0s → K0SK+K-)/B(B0 → K 0Sπ+π-)ε [0:004; 0:068] at 90% CL. | [
"Fundamental Constituents of Matter"
]
|
715028 | Origin of volatile elements in the inner Solar System | The objective of project VOLATILIS is to investigate the origin(s) of volatile elements on Earth and other planetary bodies in the inner Solar System. Since primitive and differentiated asteroids, planetary embryos, and the Earth-Moon system represent different stages of planet formation, studies of chondritic meteorites and samples from Vesta, Mars, the Moon, and Earth can provide constraints on the evolution of planetary volatiles from primordial to present-day compositions. However, indigenous volatiles in extraterrestrial samples are often masked by solar and cosmogenic contributions. Only combined analyses of noble gases and other volatiles (N, H) allow the observed volatile signatures to be resolved into constituent components (atmospheric, solar, cosmogenic, indigenous). The Centre de Recherches Pétrographiques et Géochimiques (Nancy, France), the PI’s host institute, is the only laboratory that is equipped with static noble gas mass spectrometers for coupled N-noble analyses of small-sized samples, and with two secondary ionization mass spectrometers for non-destructive volatile element measurements. By coupling these high-precision analytical techniques, we will be able to reliably characterize indigenous planetary volatiles, and to assess the importance of volatile storage during primary accretion or late addition via comets and meteorites. Furthermore, we aim to develop the protocols for N isotope analysis by ion microprobe and by static mass spectrometry in multi-collection mode; these methods will allow us to target micron-sized samples (such as melt inclusions) for N analyses and to improve the analytical precision for coupled N-noble gas studies, respectively. The new data obtained here can be integrated as critical parameters into geochemical and astrophysical models of volatile accretion and fluxes in the inner Solar System, and they are expected to be of great interest to the geo-/cosmochemistry, astrophysics, and astrobiology communities. | [
"Universe Sciences",
"Earth System Science"
]
|
W1997690336 | US Financial Regulations Circa 2010: The Coup De Grace of Dodd and Frank's Legislative Careers? | US government authorities permitted extensive financial sector de-regulation in the two decades prior to the 2007–2008 financial crisis. The last step in this de-regulatory trend was the switch to risk-weighted captial adequacy from fixed leverage ratios for US investment banks in 2004. Combined with a highly decentralised government regulatory structure that is lauded for the regulatory competition it allows, this de-regulation created considerable scope for regulatory arbitrage. Political compromise de-railed several important reform initiatives in the wake of the crisis. The reform failed to consolidate US regulatory institutions in any material way, backed away from original intentions to mitigate the ‘too big to fail’ problem and limit banks’ investment activities, and left the clean up of the mortgage giants, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, for further study. The greatest change came in the reform of consumer protection, derivatives trading and macro-prudential oversight. | [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations",
"Institutions, Governance and Legal Systems"
]
|
985131 | Ro-Boost inno smes – boosting the innovative potential of romanian smes | In the context of innovation-divided Europe and scarce consultancy in RDI, Macro Region 4 Romania is in full process of moving towards a ""turning point"" of economic positioning in a climate of globalization, disruptive innovations and circular economies. This dynamic brings to surface impediments innovation actors in the region face multiple challenges, while their ability to overcome them is crucial to the impact of such changes. The core members of the Ro-Boost SMEs consortium are aware that it is time for smart action in order to achieve the goal of reducing the innovation divide among companies. Based on the vision stated in the Ro-Boost SMEs Implementation Strategy, the core members of the consortium jointly elaborated the project ""Ro-Boost Inno SMEs"" aimed at consolidating innovative businesses - rooted into the Smart Specialisation Strategy - and to expand their position within the sector global value chains. To achieve this goal, dedicated innovation support envisaged at the beginning of 2015 shall be continued in order to increase added value of SMEs and innovative sectors in the global economy, using an innovative delivery system and consolidating the community of innovators.
The proposal is built around the expertise of relevant partners at Macro Region 4 level and in-depth competences gained in 2015-2016. It shall also capitalize on the impact generated in the previous period in order to gain further recognition of the innovation management as success driver among SMEs in terms of both economic impact and innovation culture within business environment.
| [
"Individuals, Markets and Organisations",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
W1999280728 | Fermenting Red Ginseng Enhances Its Safety and Efficacy as a Novel Skin Care Anti-Aging Ingredient: <i>In Vitro</i> and Animal Study | The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-aging potential and skin safety of red ginseng (RG) and fermented red ginseng (FRG) using Lactobacillus brevis for use as cosmetic ingredients. Concentrations of uronic acid, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and antioxidant activities were greater in FRG compared to RG. The contents of total ginsenosides were not significantly different. However, the ginsenoside metabolite content was higher in FRG (14,914.3 μg/mL) compared to RG (5697.9 μg/mL). The tyrosinase inhibitory activity (IC(50)) of FRG was 27.63 μg/mL, and more potent compared with RG (34.14 μg/mL), (P<.05). The elastase inhibitory activity (IC(50)) of FRG was 117.07 μg/mL also higher compared with RG (157.90 μg/mL). In a primary skin irritation test, 10% RG and 10% FRG were classified as practically nonirritating materials. In a skin sensitization test, the RG group showed a sensitization rate of 100% and its mean evaluation score of irritation was 1.4, whereas the FRG group showed 20% and 0.2%, respectively. By fermentation of RG, FRG has increased contents of ginsenoside metabolites, such as Rg3, Rg5, Rk1, compound K, Rh1, F2, Rg2, and flavonoids content. Therefore, FRG offers increased anti-wrinkle efficacy, whitening efficacy, and reduced toxicological potency compared to RG. | [
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Biotechnology and Biosystems Engineering",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases"
]
|
10.1016/j.automatica.2013.12.013 | A fractional approach to identify Wiener-Hammerstein systems | Block-oriented nonlinear models are appealing due to their simplicity and parsimony. Existing methods to identify the Wiener-Hammerstein model suffer from one or several drawbacks. This paper shows that it is possible to generate initial estimates in an alternative way. A fractional model parameterization is the key to the success of this approach. Advantages are that no more than two iterative optimizations are needed and that large model orders can be handled. As illustrated through a simulation example and experimental benchmark data, it gives superior initial estimates and comparable optimized results. | [
"Mathematics",
"Systems and Communication Engineering"
]
|
US 202016908826 A | FOSSIL FUEL CATALYZATION SYSTEM USING NEGATIVE CHARGE TO FUEL INJECTOR IN ORDER TO INCREASE BURN/COMBUSTION EFFICIENCY | A system, apparatus and associated method for the catalyzation of a fossil fuel prior to combustion within an internal combustion engine. A voltage is inputted from a source to a relay and an ignition circuit in separate communication with the relay. The relay converts the input voltage to a negative output voltage applied to a fuel line in communication with a fuel injector of the engine, resulting in a negative charge imparted to the fuel prior to combustion and in order to increase oxidation/burn efficiency with resultant mileage/horsepower increase and concurrent decrease in pollutants resulting from discharge of partially combusted reactants. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
681493 | CD40 goes innate: defining and targeting CD40 signaling intermediates in the macrophage to treat atherosclerosis | Atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of the majority of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), is a lipid driven, inflammatory disease of the large arteries. Despite a 25% relative risk reduction achieved by lipid-lowering treatment, the vast majority of atherosclerosis-induced CVD risk remains unaddressed. Therefore, characterizing mediators of the inflammatory aspect of atherosclerosis is a widely recognized scientific goal with great therapeutic implications.
Co-stimulatory molecules are key players in modulating immune interactions. My laboratory has defined the co-stimulatory CD40-CD40L dyad as a major driver of atherosclerosis. Inhibition of CD40, and of its interaction with the adaptor molecule TRAF6 by genetic deficiency, antibody treatment or (nanoparticle based) small molecule inhibitor (SMI) treatment, is one of the most powerful therapies to reduce atherosclerosis in a laboratory setting. Although CD40-CD40L interactions are associated with adaptive immunity, I recently identified the macrophage as a driver of CD40-induced inflammation in atherosclerosis. We will use state-of-the-art in vitro experiments, live cell-, super resolution imaging, proteomics approaches and mutant mouse models to unravel the role of macrophage CD40 in atherosclerosis. Moreover, using structure based virtual ligand screening, I will develop lead SMIs targeting macrophage CD40-signaling, which I will deliver using macrophage-targeting nanoparticles. My goal is to define the role of macrophage CD40 in inflammation and immunity and disentangle how its activation affects atherosclerosis. I will finally test the feasibility of targeting macrophage CD40-signaling as a treatment for CVD.
These studies will define the role of CD40-signaling in the innate immune system in health and (cardiovascular) disease. As components of macrophage CD40-signaling have the potential to be amenable to pharmacological manipulation, we will establish their feasibility as novel targets for (CVD) treatment. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Diseases",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration"
]
|
W900622940 | Introduction to the Hydrocarbon Composite Production System | Abstract Petroleum is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons and other constituents that may be in the form of either natural gas or liquid depending on composition, condition of pressure and temperature, reservoir rock depth, and type. The mixture of hydrocarbons includes natural gas, crude oil, condensates, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, or sulphur. The chapter covers the different types of hydrocarbon fluids and reservoirs, introduces the key components of the composite system from reservoir through the well to topside facilities, and the importance of managing sand as well as implications on the asset integrity. It also sets the scene for the introduction of major flow assurance issues in relation to oil/gas production including subsea production systems. | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Earth System Science",
"Materials Engineering"
]
|
W2026592946 | Electromagnetic boundary conditions in multipole theory | Multipole expansions for the macroscopic charge and current densities in a dielectric half-space involve a hierarchy of singular functions comprising the Dirac delta function and its derivatives. For these, Maxwell's differential equations yield corresponding singular expansions of the macroscopic electromagnetic fields E and B, and the response fields D and H, together with their boundary conditions (in terms of macroscopic multipole moment densities) at a dielectric–vacuum (or dielectric–dielectric) interface. Explicit results are obtained up to electric octopole–magnetic quadrupole order. These show that published expressions for boundary conditions are incomplete beyond electric dipole order, due to an invalid assumption concerning two-dimensional behaviour at the interface. The effect of this on studies of certain reflection effects for anisotropic media is detailed. Comparison of the differential theory with the standard integral formulation shows that, beyond electric dipole order, the latter is incomplete and redundant. | [
"Fundamental Constituents of Matter",
"Condensed Matter Physics",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences"
]
|
10.1172/JCI92880 | Factor Xii And Upar Upregulate Neutrophil Functions To Influence Wound Healing | Coagulation factor XII (FXII) deficiency is associated with decreased neutrophil migration, but the mechanisms remain uncharacterized. Here, we examine how FXII contributes to the inflammatory response. In 2 models of sterile inflammation, FXII-deficient mice (F12-/-) had fewer neutrophils recruited than WT mice. We discovered that neutrophils produced a pool of FXII that is functionally distinct from hepatic-derived FXII and contributes to neutrophil trafficking at sites of inflammation. FXII signals in neutrophils through urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-mediated (uPAR-mediated) Akt2 phosphorylation at S474 (pAktS474). Downstream of pAkt2S474, FXII stimulation of neutrophils upregulated surface expression of αMβ2 integrin, increased intracellular calcium, and promoted extracellular DNA release. The sum of these activities contributed to neutrophil cell adhesion, migration, and release of neutrophil extracellular traps in a process called NETosis. Decreased neutrophil signaling in F12-/- mice resulted in less inflammation and faster wound healing. Targeting hepatic F12 with siRNA did not affect neutrophil migration, whereas WT BM transplanted into F12-/- hosts was sufficient to correct the neutrophil migration defect in F12-/- mice and restore wound inflammation. Importantly, these activities were a zymogen FXII function and independent of FXIIa and contact activation, highlighting that FXII has a sophisticated role in vivo that has not been previously appreciated. | [
"Immunity, Infection and Immunotherapy",
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.10.014 | Comprehensive single cell-resolution analysis of the role of chromatin regulators in early C. elegans embryogenesis | Chromatin regulators are widely expressed proteins with diverse roles in gene expression, nuclear organization, cell cycle regulation, pluripotency, physiology and development, and are frequently mutated in human diseases such as cancer. Their inhibition often results in pleiotropic effects that are difficult to study using conventional approaches. We have developed a semi-automated nuclear tracking algorithm to quantify the divisions, movements and positions of all nuclei during the early development of Caenorhabditis elegans and have used it to systematically study the effects of inhibiting chromatin regulators. The resulting high dimensional datasets revealed that inhibition of multiple regulators, including F55A3. 3 (encoding FACT subunit SUPT16H), lin-53 (RBBP4/7), rba-1 (RBBP4/7), set-16 (MLL2/3), hda-1 (HDAC1/2), swsn-7 (ARID2), and let-526 (ARID1A/1B) affected cell cycle progression and caused chromosome segregation defects. In contrast, inhibition of cir-1 (CIR1) accelerated cell division timing in specific cells of the AB lineage. The inhibition of RNA polymerase II also accelerated these division timings, suggesting that normal gene expression is required to delay cell cycle progression in multiple lineages in the early embryo. Quantitative analyses of the dataset suggested the existence of at least two functionally distinct SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex activities in the early embryo, and identified a redundant requirement for the egl-27 and lin-40 MTA orthologs in the development of endoderm and mesoderm lineages. Moreover, our dataset also revealed a characteristic rearrangement of chromatin to the nuclear periphery upon the inhibition of multiple general regulators of gene expression. Our systematic, comprehensive and quantitative datasets illustrate the power of single cell-resolution quantitative tracking and high dimensional phenotyping to investigate gene function. Furthermore, the results provide an overview of the functions of essential chromatin regulators during the early development of an animal. | [
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
W1908454252 | PERDIDA DE CARGA EN CONDUCTOS DE HIERRO GALVANIZADO CONDUCIENDO AGUA RESIDUAL DE INSTALACIONES DE GALLINAS PONEDORAS | Operations related to the production of poultry can generate effluents from different sources, including the runoff resulting from the cages, food and water for birds and storage facilities and waste management. In any proposed poultry farm, one must take into account the handling of waste and wastewater, which can be channeled in galvanized iron pipes. The aim of this study the equations to estimate continuous head loss in galvanized iron pipelines in the commercial diameters varying from 50 to 150 mm, when in operating with laying hen wastewater in different concentrations of total solids. The results indicated that the methodologies of Duffy & Titchener and Hazen-Williams modified gave results with coefficient of determination superiors to 0.95. | [
"Products and Processes Engineering",
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences"
]
|
10.1186/s13059-018-1411-7 | Predicting double-strand DNA breaks using epigenome marks or DNA at kilobase resolution | Double-strand breaks (DSBs) result from the attack of both DNA strands by multiple sources, including radiation and chemicals. DSBs can cause the abnormal chromosomal rearrangements associated with cancer. Recent techniques allow the genome-wide mapping of DSBs at high resolution, enabling the comprehensive study of their origins. However, these techniques are costly and challenging. Hence, we devise a computational approach to predict DSBs using the epigenomic and chromatin context, for which public data are readily available from the ENCODE project. We achieve excellent prediction accuracy at high resolution. We identify chromatin accessibility, activity, and long-range contacts as the best predictors. | [
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Computer Science and Informatics"
]
|
10.1038/s41598-018-34646-7 | A bacteria-derived tail anchor localizes to peroxisomes in yeast and mammalian cells | Prokaryotes can provide new genetic information to eukaryotes by horizontal gene transfer (HGT), and such transfers are likely to have been particularly consequential in the era of eukaryogenesis. Since eukaryotes are highly compartmentalized, it is worthwhile to consider the mechanisms by which newly transferred proteins might reach diverse organellar destinations. Toward this goal, we have focused our attention upon the behavior of bacteria-derived tail anchors (TAs) expressed in the eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this study, we report that a predicted membrane-associated domain of the Escherichia coli YgiM protein is specifically trafficked to peroxisomes in budding yeast, can be found at a pre-peroxisomal compartment (PPC) upon disruption of peroxisomal biogenesis, and can functionally replace an endogenous, peroxisome-directed TA. Furthermore, the YgiM(TA) can localize to peroxisomes in mammalian cells. Since the YgiM(TA) plays no endogenous role in peroxisomal function or assembly, this domain is likely to serve as an excellent tool allowing further illumination of the mechanisms by which TAs can travel to peroxisomes. Moreover, our findings emphasize the ease with which bacteria-derived sequences might target to organelles in eukaryotic cells following HGT, and we discuss the importance of flexible recognition of organelle targeting information during and after eukaryogenesis. | [
"Cell Biology, Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions"
]
|
10.1021/nl5014162 | Topological dynamics in supramolecular rotors | Artificial molecular switches, rotors, and machines are set to establish design rules and applications beyond their biological counterparts. Herein we exemplify the role of noncovalent interactions and transient rearrangements in the complex behavior of supramolecular rotors caged in a 2D metal-organic coordination network. Combined scanning tunneling microscopy experiments and molecular dynamics modeling of a supramolecular rotor with respective rotation rates matching with 0. 2 kcal mol-1 (9 meV) precision, identify key steps in collective rotation events and reconfigurations. We notably reveal that stereoisomerization of the chiral trimeric units entails topological isomerization whereas rotation occurs in a topology conserving, two-step asynchronous process. In supramolecular constructs, distinct displacements of subunits occur inducing a markedly lower rotation barrier as compared to synchronous mechanisms of rigid rotors. Moreover, the chemical environment can be instructed to control the system dynamics. Our observations allow for a definition of mechanical cooperativity based on a significant reduction of free energy barriers in supramolecules compared to rigid molecules. | [
"Physical and Analytical Chemical Sciences",
"Condensed Matter Physics"
]
|
10.1098/rstb.2014.0336 | New substitution models for rooting phylogenetic trees | The root of a phylogenetic tree is fundamental to its biological interpretation, but standard substitution models do not provide any information on its position. Here, we describe two recently developed models that relax the usual assumptions of stationarity and reversibility, thereby facilitating root inference without the need for an outgroup. We compare the performance of these models on a classic test case for phylogenetic methods, before considering two highly topical questions in evolutionary biology: the deep structure of the tree of life and the root of the archaeal radiation. We show that all three alignments contain meaningful rooting information that can be harnessed by these new models, thus complementing and extending previous work based on outgroup rooting. In particular, our analyses exclude the root of the tree of life from the eukaryotes or Archaea, placing it on the bacterial stem or within the Bacteria. They also exclude the root of the archaeal radiation from several major clades, consistent with analyses using other rooting methods. Overall, our results demonstrate the utility of non-reversible and non-stationary models for rooting phylogenetic trees, and identify areas where further progress can be made. | [
"Environmental Biology, Ecology and Evolution",
"Molecules of Life: Biological Mechanisms, Structures and Functions",
"Integrative Biology: from Genes and Genomes to Systems"
]
|
W1989121896 | A Multi-Criteria GIS Site Selection for Sustainable Cocoa Development in West Africa | Cocoa occupies 6 million hectares in humid coastal West Africa where 70% of the world supply is grown, 90% of which is produced on 2 million family farms of 2 hectares or less. Here, at least 16 million people depend on cocoa but earn only $100/person/year from the crop. There is need to optimize the farming system, minimize the environmental impact of technologies, and improve socio-economic dynamics. This study identifies areas with potential for intensified cocoa farming and where maximum impact to household income could be achieved without deforestation. The selection involves defining suitability criteria, preparing an inventory of available data, determining suitability based on identified criteria, and combining suitability into hierarchical preferences based on weights proposed by local experts. GIS and Multi-Criteria land Evaluation technique using biophysical, socioeconomic, and demographic variables were employed in selection. Nineteen administrative units were selected in Nigeria where the intervention project could be implemented. | [
"Earth System Science",
"Human Mobility, Environment, and Space",
"Products and Processes Engineering"
]
|
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