bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing the core-cluster model calculations for some heavy deformed nuclei
Authors: Abou-Salem L. I. , Abdelmageed K. E. , Elmashad I. A. , Al Allam R.
Published: July 2019

In this work, the spectra of some even–even isotopes are studied by selecting core-cluster decomposition of the parent nucleus. The considered nuclei lie in the rare-earth and the transition metal regions. The Schrödinger equation can be solved using Bohr–Sommerfeld relation and the modified Woods–Saxon beside Coulomb potentials to reproduce the spectra of these isotopes with mass number [Formula: see text]. The theoretical calculations of the excitation energies of the ground state rotational band are compared to the experimental data. The cluster model calculations show a good agreement with the experimental data for the transitional and rotational nuclei more than the vibrational nuclei. Some negative parity bands of the chosen nuclei are studied. The core-cluster charge products are correlated with the transition probability [Formula: see text].
CONTINUOUS-TIME MEAN–VARIANCE OPTIMIZATION FOR DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PENSION FUNDS WITH REGIME-SWITCHING
Authors: CHEN ZHIPING , WANG LIYUAN , CHEN PING , YAO HAIXIANG
Published: July 2019

Using mean–variance (MV) criterion, this paper investigates a continuous-time defined contribution (DC) pension fund investment problem. The framework is constructed under a Markovian regime-switching market consisting of one bank account and multiple risky assets. The prices of the risky assets are governed by geometric Brownian motion while the accumulative contribution evolves according to a Brownian motion with drift and their correlation is considered. The market state is modeled by a Markovian chain and the random regime-switching is assumed to be independent of the underlying Brownian motions. The incorporation of the stochastic accumulative contribution and the correlations between the contribution and the prices of risky assets makes our problem harder to tackle. Luckily, based on appropriate Riccati-type equations and using the techniques of Lagrange multiplier and stochastic linear quadratic control, we derive the explicit expressions of the optimal strategy and efficient frontier. Further, two special cases with no contribution and no regime-switching, respectively, are discussed and the corresponding results are consistent with those results of Zhou & Yin [(2003) Markowitz’s mean-variance portfolio selection with regime switching: A continuous-time model, SIAM Journal on Control and Optimization 42 (4), 1466–1482] and Zhou & Li [(2000) Continuous-time mean-variance portfolio selection: A stochastic LQ framework, Applied Mathematics and Optimization 42 (1), 19–33]. Finally, some numerical analyses based on real data from the American market are provided to illustrate the property of the optimal strategy and the effects of model parameters on the efficient frontier, which sheds light on our theoretical results.
A Review of Enhancement and Segmentation Techniques for Digital Images
Authors: Gill Jasmeen , Girdhar Akshay , Singh Tejwant
Published: July 2019

Image enhancement and segmentation are the two imperative steps while processing digital images. The goal of enhancement is to improve the quality of images so as to nullify the effect of poor illumination conditions during image acquisition. Afterwards, segmentation is performed to extract region of interest (ROI) from the background details of the image. There is a vast literature available for both the techniques. Therefore, this paper is intended to summarize the basic as well as advanced enhancement and segmentation techniques under a single heading; to provide an insight for future researches in the field of pattern recognition.
Image Forensics Based on Lighting Estimation
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Rani Anuj , Srivastava Sangeet
Published: July 2019

Computer generated images are assumed to be a key part in each person’s life in this era of information technology, where individuals effectively inhabit the advertisements, magazines, websites, televisions and many more. At the point when digital images played their role, the event of violations in terms of misrepresentation of information, use of their wrong doings winds up and also becomes easier with the help of image editing application programs. To be legitimate, if anyone does wrong anything then the proposed method can be used for a correct identification of the forgery and the imitations in the digital images. In existing techniques, researchers have suggested most well-known types of digital photographic manipulations based on source, meta-data, image copying, splicing and many more. The proposed approach is inspired by physics-based techniques and requires less human involvement. The presented approach works for images having any type of objects present in the scene, i.e. not only limited to human faces and selection of same intensity regions of the image. By assessing the lighting parameters, the proposed technique identifies the manipulated object and returns angle of incidence w.r.t light source direction. The demonstrated result produces forgery recognition rate of 92% on an image dataset comprising of various types of manipulated images.
A braided T-category over weak monoidal Hom-Hopf algebras
Authors: Liu Guohua , Wang Wei , Wang Shuanhong , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we define and study weak monoidal Hom-Hopf algebras, which generalize both weak Hopf algebras and monoidal Hom-Hopf algebras. Let [Formula: see text] be a weak monoidal Hom-Hopf algebra with bijective antipode and let [Formula: see text] be the set of all automorphisms of [Formula: see text], we introduce a category [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and construct a braided [Formula: see text]-category [Formula: see text] having all the categories [Formula: see text] as components.
Spherical harmonic d-tensors
Authors: Hohmann Manuel
Published: July 2019

Tensor harmonics are a useful mathematical tool for finding solutions to differential equations which transform under a particular representation of the rotation group [Formula: see text]. The aim of this work is to make use of this tool also in the setting of Finsler geometry, or more general geometries on the tangent bundle, where the objects of relevance are d-tensors on the tangent bundle, or tensors in a pullback bundle, instead of ordinary tensors. For this purpose, we construct a set of d-tensor harmonics for spherical symmetry and show how these can be used for calculations in Finsler geometry.
Energy conditions in non-local gravity
Authors: Ilyas M.
Published: July 2019

We investigate the different energy conditions in non-local gravity, which is obtained by adding an arbitrary function of d’Alembertian operator, [Formula: see text], to the Hilbert–Einstein action. We analyze the validity of four different energy conditions and illustrate the different constraints over parameters of the power-law solution as well as de Sitter solution.
Viscous accelerating universe with nonlinear and logarithmic equation of state fluid
Authors: Brevik I. , Makarenko A. N. , Timoshkin A. V.
Published: July 2019

We describe the accelerated expansion of the late-time universe using a generalized equation of state (EoS) when account is taken of bulk viscosity. We assume a homogeneous and isotropic Friedmann–Robertson–Walker spacetime. Solutions of the gravitational equations for dark energy are obtained in implicit form. Characteristic properties of the universe evolution in the presence of the viscosity effects are discussed. Finally, the dynamics of the accelerated expansion of the viscous universe are discussed on the basis of a modified logarithmic-corrected EoS.
Hadronic Paschen-Back effect in P-wave charmonia under strong magnetic fields
Authors: Iwasaki Sachio , Oka Makoto , Suzuki Kei , Yoshida Tetsuya
Published: July 2019

The Hadronic Paschen-Back effect (HPBE) is a new phenomenon induced by the interplay between finite orbital angular momenta of hadrons and external strong magnetic fields. We review the HPBE in P-wave charmonia and show its mass spectra, deformed wave functions, and mixing ratios, which are evaluated by the constituent quark models in a magnetic field and the cylindrical Gaussian expansion method.
Allowed Gamow-Teller strength distributions and stellar electron capture rates on odd-A nuclei
Authors: Nabi Jameel-Un , Majid Muhammad , Riaz Muhammad
Published: July 2019

The allowed Gamow-Teller (GT) strength distributions and associated weak interaction rates on fp-shell nuclei play crucial role in several astrophysical processes, particularly in nucleosynthesis, stellar evolution and supernova explosions. Results from simulation show that the electron capture (EC) rates on medium-heavy nuclei have a significant impact on decreasing the electron-to-baryon ratio of the stellar matter during the late stages of star formation. In this work we present the computation of allowed charge-changing transitions for odd-A fp-shell nuclei by using the deformed pn-QRPA model. The calculated GT strength distributions are compared with previous calculations (including shell and other QRPA models) and measured charge-changing reaction results. The associated EC rates are computed in stellar environment and are compared with previous theoretical results. It is concluded that our results are in good accordance with measured data. For [Formula: see text]Sc, [Formula: see text]V and [Formula: see text]Co, at high stellar temperatures, our calculated EC rates are bigger than the independent-particle and shell model rates. For [Formula: see text]Mn we generally calculate smaller EC rates than previous calculations. The differences with previous calculations may have consequences for supernovae simulators.
Multi-Modal Curriculum Learning over Graphs
Authors: Gong Chen , Yang Jian , Tao Dacheng
Published: July 2019

Curriculum Learning (CL) is a recently proposed learning paradigm that aims to achieve satisfactory performance by properly organizing the learning sequence from simple curriculum examples to more difficult ones. Up to now, few works have been done to explore CL for the data with graph structure. Therefore, this article proposes a novel CL algorithm that can be utilized to guide the Label Propagation (LP) over graphs, of which the target is to “learn” the labels of unlabeled examples on the graphs. Specifically, we assume that different unlabeled examples have different levels of difficulty for propagation, and their label learning should follow a simple-to-difficult sequence with the updated curricula. Furthermore, considering that the practical data are often characterized by multiple modalities, every modality in our method is associated with a “teacher” that not only evaluates the difficulties of examples from its own viewpoint, but also cooperates with other teachers to generate the overall simplest curriculum examples for propagation. By taking the curriculums suggested by the teachers as a whole, the common preference (i.e., commonality) of teachers on selecting the simplest examples can be discovered by a row-sparse matrix, and their distinct opinions (i.e., individuality) are captured by a sparse noise matrix. As a result, an accurate curriculum sequence can be established and the propagation quality can thus be improved. Theoretically, we prove that the propagation risk bound is closely related to the examples’ difficulty information, and empirically, we show that our method can generate higher accuracy than the state-of-the-art CL approach and LP algorithms on various multi-modal tasks.
Regrets in Routing Networks
Authors: Cabannes Théophile , Sangiovanni Marco , Keimer Alexander , Bayen Alexandre M.
Published: July 2019

The impact of the recent increase in routing apps usage on road traffic remains uncertain to this day. The article introduces, for the first time, a criterion to evaluate a distance between an observed state of traffic and the user equilibrium of the traffic assignment:
the average marginal regret
. The average marginal regret provides a quantitative measure of the impact of routing apps on traffic using only link flows, link travel times, and travel demand. In non-atomic routing games (or static traffic assignment models), the average marginal regret is a measure of selfish drivers’ behaviors. Unlike the
price of anarchy
, the average marginal regret in the routing game can be computed in polynomial time without any knowledge of user equilibria and socially optimal states of traffic. First, this article demonstrates on a small example that the average marginal regret is more appropriate to define proximity between an observed state of traffic and an user equilibrium state of traffic than comparing flows, travel times, or total cost. Then, experiments on two different models of app usage and three networks (including the whole L.A. network with more than 50,000 nodes) demonstrate that the average marginal regret decreases with an increase of app usage. Sensitivity analysis of the equilibrium state with respect to the app usage ratio proves that the average marginal regret monotonically decreases to 0 with an increase of app usage. Finally, using a toy example, the article concludes that app usage could become the new Braess paradox.
Index Reduction for Differential-algebraic Equations with Mixed Matrices
Authors: Iwata Satoru , Oki Taihei , Takamatsu Mizuyo
Published: July 2019

Differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) are widely used for the modeling of dynamical systems. The difficulty in numerically solving a DAE is measured by its differentiation index. For highly accurate simulation of dynamical systems, it is important to convert high-index DAEs into low-index DAEs. Most of the existing simulation software packages for dynamical systems are equipped with an index-reduction algorithm given by Mattsson and Söderlind. Unfortunately, this algorithm fails if there are numerical cancellations.

These numerical cancellations are often caused by accurate constants in structural equations. Distinguishing those accurate constants from generic parameters that represent physical quantities, Murota and Iri introduced the notion of a mixed matrix as a mathematical tool for faithful model description in a structural approach to systems analysis. For DAEs described with the use of mixed matrices, efficient algorithms to compute the index have been developed by exploiting matroid theory.

This article presents an index-reduction algorithm for linear DAEs whose coefficient matrices are mixed matrices, i.e., linear DAEs containing physical quantities as parameters. Our algorithm detects numerical cancellations between accurate constants and transforms a DAE into an equivalent DAE to which Mattsson–Söderlind’s index-reduction algorithm is applicable. Our algorithm is based on the combinatorial relaxation approach, which is a framework to solve a linear algebraic problem by iteratively relaxing it into an efficiently solvable combinatorial optimization problem. The algorithm does not rely on symbolic manipulations but on fast combinatorial algorithms on graphs and matroids. Our algorithm is proved to work for any linear DAEs whose coefficient matrices are mixed matrices. Furthermore, we provide an improved algorithm under an assumption based on dimensional analysis of dynamical systems. Through numerical experiments, it is confirmed that our algorithms run sufficiently fast for large-scale DAEs and output DAEs such that physical meanings of coefficients are easy to interpret. Our algorithms can also be applied to nonlinear DAEs by regarding nonlinear terms as parameters.
Connectivity Mapping: Methods and Applications
Authors: Keenan Alexandra B. , Wojciechowicz Megan L. , Wang Zichen , Jagodnik Kathleen M. , Jenkins Sherry L. , Lachmann Alexander , Ma'ayan Avi
Published: July 2019

Connectivity mapping resources consist of signatures representing changes in cellular state following systematic small-molecule, disease, gene, or other form of perturbations. Such resources enable the characterization of signatures from novel perturbations based on similarity; provide a global view of the space of many themed perturbations; and allow the ability to predict cellular, tissue, and organismal phenotypes for perturbagens. A signature search engine enables hypothesis generation by finding connections between query signatures and the database of signatures. This framework has been used to identify connections between small molecules and their targets, to discover cell-specific responses to perturbations and ways to reverse disease expression states with small molecules, and to predict small-molecule mimickers for existing drugs. This review provides a historical perspective and the current state of connectivity mapping resources with a focus on both methodology and community implementations.
Discovering Pathway and Cell Type Signatures in Transcriptomic Compendia with Machine Learning
Authors: Way Gregory P. , Greene Casey S.
Published: July 2019

Pathway and cell type signatures are patterns present in transcriptome data that are associated with biological processes or phenotypic consequences. These signatures result from specific cell type and pathway expression but can require large transcriptomic compendia to detect. Machine learning techniques can be powerful tools for signature discovery through their ability to provide accurate and interpretable results. In this review, we discuss various machine learning applications to extract pathway and cell type signatures from transcriptomic compendia. We focus on the biological motivations and interpretation for both supervised and unsupervised learning approaches in this setting. We consider recent advances, including deep learning, and their applications to expanding bulk and single-cell RNA data. As data and computational resources increase, there will be more opportunities for machine learning to aid in revealing biological signatures.
Multiobjective Synthesis of Linear Arrays by Using an Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Yang Bo
Published: July 2019

In this paper, an improved genetic algorithm with dynamic weight vector (IGA-DWV) is proposed for the pattern synthesis of a linear array. To maintain the diversity of the selected solution in each generation, the objective function space is divided by the dynamic weight vector, which is uniformly distributed on the Pareto front (PF). The individuals closer to the dynamic weight vector can be chosen to the new population. Binary- and real-coded genetic algorithms (GAs) with a mapping method are implemented for different optimization problems. To reduce the computation complexity, the repeat calculation of the fitness function in each generation is replaced by a precomputed discrete cosine transform matrix. By transforming the array pattern synthesis into a multiobjective optimization problem, the conflict among the side lobe level (SLL), directivity, and nulls can be efficiently addressed. The proposed method is compared with real number particle swarm optimization (RNPSO) and quantized particle swarm optimization (QPSO) as applied in the pattern synthesis of a linear thinned array and a digital phased array. The numerical examples show that IGA-DWV can achieve a high performance with a lower SLL and more accurate nulls.
Precompetitional Weight Reduction Modifies Prooxidative-Antioxidative Status in Judokas
Authors: Knapik Katarzyna , Sieroń Karolina , Wojtyna Ewa , Onik Grzegorz , Romuk Ewa , Birkner Ewa , Stanek Agata , Kawczyk-Krupka Aleksandra , Plinta Ryszard , Sieroń Aleksander
Published: July 2019

Objective. The main aim of the study was an assessment of the influence of rapid weight loss on oxidative stress parameters in judokas differing in weight reduction value. Materials and Methods. The study included 30 judokas with an age range of 18-30 years (mean age: 22.4±3.40 years). Enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidative markers, lipid peroxidation markers, and total oxidative stress were assessed three times: one week before a competition (the first stage), after gaining the desired weight (the second stage), and one week after the competition (the third stage). Results. Between the first and the second stage, the concentration of lipid hydroperoxides (LPH) decreased significantly. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD), ceruloplasmin (CER), malondialdehyde (MDA), LPH, and total oxidative stress (TOS) concentrations were the lowest one week after the competition. Linear regression indicated that the emphases on increased weight reduction increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and protein sulfhydryl (PSH) between the first and the second stage of the study. Moderate weight reduction (2-5%) resulted in elevated levels of SOD, Mn-SOD, LPH, MDA, and TOS in comparison to low and high reductions. An opposite relation was observed in PSH. In judokas, the precompetitional weight reduction range was 0.44-6.10% (mean: 2.93%±1.76%) of the initial body weight. Concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD; p<.01), manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD; p<.001), and ceruloplasmin (CER; p<.05) decreased between the first and the third stage of the study as well between the second and third one. Before competitions, a decrease in lipid hydroperoxide (LPH; p<.01) concentration was observed. A reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA; p<.05), LPH (p<.01), and total oxidative stress (TOS; p<.05) levels between the first and the final stage occurred. The increase in weight reduction was linearly correlated with the rise of glutathione peroxidase (GPx; p<.05), glutathione reductase (GR; p<.05), glutathione S-transferase (GST; p<.05), and protein sulfhydryl (PSH; p<.05) concentrations between the first and the second stage of the study. Moderate weight reduction (2-5%) resulted in elevated levels of SOD (p<.05), Mn-SOD (p<.05), LPH (p<.05), MDA (p<.05), and TOS (p<.05) in comparison to low and high reductions. An opposite relation was observed in PSH (p<.005). Conclusions. The effect of weight reduction in judo athletes on prooxidative-antioxidative system diversity depends on the weight reduction value.
The Sonography and Physical Findings on Shoulder after Selective Neck Dissection in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Huang Yu-Chi , Lee Yan-Yuh , Tso Hui-Hsin , Chen Po-Cheng , Chen Yi-Cun , Chien Chih-Yen , Chung Ya-Ju , Leong Chau-Peng
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate soft tissue disorders of affected shoulders after nerve-sparing selective neck dissection (SND) in patients with head and neck cancers (HNCs) by sonography. Eighteen HNCs patients with shoulder disability after SND were enrolled. Shoulder motions, pain, and the sonographic findings were measured and analyzed. Significantly decreased flexion, abduction, and increased pain were found on affected shoulders compared with normal shoulders. There were significant decrease in thickness of trapezius muscle (p=0.001), abnormal findings of supraspinatus tendon (p=0.022), and subdeltoid bursa (p=0.018) on surgical side. The ratio of trapezius muscle atrophy was related to shoulder pain (p=0.010). Patients with subdeltoid abnormalities had significant limitation on shoulder flexion and abduction. Abnormalities of supraspinatus tendon and subdeltoid bursa on sonography and trapezius muscle atrophy may play a key role in shoulder pain and shoulder flexion and abduction limitations.
Pseudoaneurysm of the Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Associated with Duodenal Diverticulitis
Authors: Hao Scarlett B. , Johnson Dale B. , Bonatti Hugo J. R.
Published: July 2019

Background. Duodenal diverticula tend to be asymptomatic; however, patients may develop duodenal diverticulitis. Case Presentation. A 66-year-old Caucasian man presented to our emergency room with a two-day history of right-sided abdominal pain, chills, tachycardia, nausea, and emesis. His WBC, lactic acid, and bilirubin were elevated. CT-scan revealed an inflammatory process involving the gallbladder, the duodenum and ascending colon, a mesenteric soft tissue mass, and a diverticulum of the second portion of the duodenum. He was admitted, antibiotics were started, and he improved clinically over the next 36 hours. Repeat triple contrast CT-scan showed a two cm pseudoaneurysm (PA) of the pancreaticoduodenal artery causing a mesenteric hematoma. The inflammatory changes had significantly improved, and WBC and CRP were normalizing. Repeat CT-scan three days later demonstrated an interval increase in size of the PA. Angiography through celiac access and gastroduodenal artery demonstrated predominant inflow to the PA from the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery. The superior mesenteric artery was accessed showing a replaced right hepatic artery hindering access to the branch feeding the PA. The patient was transferred to a specialized facility where ultimately occlusion of the PA inflow was obtained. The patient recovered without any complication from this rare condition. Conclusion. This seems to be the first reported case of duodenal diverticulitis causing a PA of the pancreaticoduodenal artery. Antibiotic therapy together with percutaneous embolization of the bleeding source resulted in a good outcome.
A Start Codon Variant in NOG Underlies Symphalangism and Ossicular Chain Malformations Affecting Both the Incus and the Stapes
Authors: Lindquist Nathan R. , Appelbaum Eric N. , Acharya Anushree , Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Leal Suzanne M. , Schrauwen Isabelle
Published: July 2019

We performed exome sequencing to evaluate the underlying molecular cause of a patient with bilateral conductive hearing loss due to multiple ossicular abnormalities as well as symphalangism of the fifth digits. This leads to the identification of a novel heterozygous start codon variant in the NOG gene (c.2T>C:p.Met1?) that hinders normal translation of the noggin protein. Variants in NOG lead to a spectrum of otologic, digit, and joint abnormalities, a combination suggested to be referred to as NOG‐related‐symphalangism spectrum disorder (NOG‐SSD). Conductive hearing loss from such variants may stem from stapes footplate ankylosis, fixation of the malleoincudal joint, or fixation of the incus short process. In this case, the constellation of both stapes and incus fixation, an exceptionally tall stapes suprastructure, thickened long process of the incus, and enlarged incus body was encountered, leading to distinct challenges during otologic surgery to improve hearing thresholds. This case highlights multiple abnormalities to the ossicular chain in a patient with a start codon variant in NOG. We provide detailed imaging data on these malformations as well as surgical considerations and outcomes.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exhibit Both a Proinflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Effect on Saccular Aneurysm Formation in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Avery Michael B. , Belanger Brooke L. , Bromley Amy , Sen Arindom , Mitha Alim P.
Published: July 2019

Several studies have demonstrated a potential interaction between mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and saccular aneurysms. In this study, we sought to determine whether allogenic bone marrow-derived MSCs had the ability to prevent aneurysm formation in a known rabbit elastase aneurysm model. MSCs were injected intravenously in experimental rabbits at the time of surgical creation and two weeks postcreation and compared with control rabbits receiving vehicle injection. Angiography was used to compare aneurysm measurements four weeks postcreation, and aneurysms were harvested for histological properties. Serum was collected longitudinally to evaluate cytokine alterations. Serum from control animals was also utilized to performin vitrotests with MSCs to compare the effect of the serologic environment in animals with and without aneurysms on MSC proliferation and cytokine production. While aneurysm morphometric comparisons revealed no differences, significant cytokine alterations were observedin vitroandin vivo, suggesting both anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory processes were occurring in the presence of MSCs. Histological analyses suggested that tunica intima hyperplasia was inhibited in the presence of MSCs.
Assessing the Progress towards Achieving “VISION 2020: The Right to Sight” Initiative in Ghana
Authors: Morny Enyam Komla Amewuho , Boadi-Kusi Samuel Bert , Ocansey Stephen , Kyei Samuel , Yeboah Kwame , Mmaduagwu Maureen Adanna
Published: July 2019

Purpose. The aim of this study was to analyse eye health delivery in Ghana and examine the progress towards achieving VISION 2020 indicator targets. Methods. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2017 and May 2018. It used a mixed method approach including desk-based reviews, a questionnaire-based survey of eye facilities in Ghana, and interviews with eye health system stakeholders to collect information on eye health delivery in facilities owned by the Ghana Health Service (GHS), quasigovernmental bodies (security agencies), and Christian Association of Ghana (CHAG). The information was benchmarked against the World Health Organization (WHO) targets for achieving the goals of VISION 2020. Results. The magnitude of blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment (without pinhole) was 0.9% and 3.0%, respectively. The number of ophthalmologists available at the country level was 80.6% of the VISION 2020 target with optometrists and ophthalmic nurses exceeding targets for VISION 2020. The distribution of human resources was heavily skewed towards two out of the 10 regions in Ghana. Cataract surgical rate was low and met 25% of the WHO target. Basic equipment for refraction was available in the majority of facilities; however, there was a general lack of specialised eye care equipment across the country. Comparatively, CHAG facilities were better equipped than GHS facilities at the same level. Conclusion. The Government of Ghana should revitalize the goals of VISION 2020 beyond the year 2020 and spearhead a concerted effort to ensure equitable distribution of human and infrastructural resources across the country.
Low Birth Weight and Its Associated Factors among Newborns Delivered at Wolaita Sodo University Teaching and Referral Hospital, Southern Ethiopia, 2018
Authors: Lake Eyasu Alem , Olana Fite Robera
Published: July 2019

Background. Birth weight has a vital role in determining newborns survival in vulnerable conditions. Low birth weight is associated with fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, impairment of growth and development and also chronic disease later in life. This study was aimed to assess the magnitude of low birth weight and its determinants in Wolaita Sodo University teaching and referral hospital, southern Ethiopia. Methods. Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data was collected by interviewing mothers through structured questionnaire and reviewing neonates' medical records using a checklist. Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors associated with neonatal jaundice. Results. The proportion of low birth weight in the study area was found to be 15.8% (95% CI 11.7-19.9). Being primiparity [AOR=5.798; 95% (1.572-21.377)], anemia during pregnancy [AOR=3.808; 95% (1.513-9.586)], pregnancy induced hypertension [AOR= 6.955; 95% (2.386- 20.275)], intake herbal medication during pregnancy [AOR=35.762; 95% (4.571-279.764)], drinking alcohol during pregnancy [AOR=8.111; 95% (2.359-27. 895)] were predictors of low birth weight. Conclusion. The proportion of low birth weight among newborns delivered at Wolaita Sodo University teaching and referral hospital was comparable with the global prevalence of low birth weight. Parity, anemia, alcohol, herbal medication, and pregnancy-induced hypertension were significantly associated with low birth weight.
A Patient with Graves’ Disease Scheduled for Thyroidectomy with High Risk for Thyroid Storm Caused by Severe Medication Nonadherence: Anaesthetic and Surgical Considerations
Authors: Reber Adrian , Valenti Laura , Müller Stephan
Published: July 2019

In patients with failed hormone regulation who are scheduled for indispensable total thyroidectomy, the risk of thyroid storm with severe end-organ complications has to be anticipated. This case report presents the successful surgical and anaesthesiological management of a patient with Graves’ disease, without any signs of perioperative thyroid storm. Possible recommendations for treatment are presented.
Difficult Internal Jugular Central Venous Cannulation Using J-Tip Guidewire with Indwelling Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Anand Preeti , Joshi Minal , Ahmed Khaja , Yarmush Joel
Published: July 2019

Central venous cannulation is a commonly performed procedure while managing critically ill patients; increasingly we encounter patients with indwelling wires or devices, like pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillator devices, and peripherally inserted central venous catheters which complicate insertion of central venous catheters further. We present two cases where use of standard J-tip guidewire may have exacerbated the difficulty associated with internal jugular cannulation in presence of peripherally inserted central venous catheters. Recognition and avoidance of possible complications are crucial, and we discuss complexity posed by indwelling peripherally inserted central venous catheters and possible solutions.
Alpha-2-Macroglobulin, a Hypochlorite-Regulated Chaperone and Immune System Modulator
Authors: Cater Jordan H. , Wilson Mark R. , Wyatt Amy R.
Published: July 2019

Alpha-macroglobulins are ancient proteins that include monomeric, dimeric, and tetrameric family members. In humans, and many other mammals, the predominant alpha-macroglobulin is alpha-2-macroglobulin (α2M), a tetrameric protein that is constitutively abundant in biological fluids (e.g., blood plasma, cerebral spinal fluid, synovial fluid, ocular fluid, and interstitial fluid).α2M is best known for its remarkable ability to inhibit a broad spectrum of proteases, but the full gamut of its activities affects diverse biological processes. For example,α2M can stabilise and facilitate the clearance of the Alzheimer’s disease-associated amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide. Additionally,α2M can influence the signalling of cytokines and growth factors including neurotrophins. The results of several studies support the idea that the functions ofα2M are uniquely regulated by hypochlorite, an oxidant that is generated during inflammation, which induces the nativeα2M tetramer to dissociate into dimers. This review will discuss the evidence for hypochlorite-induced regulation ofα2M and the possible implications of this in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.
Analysis and Forecasting of the Energy Consumption in Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: Li ZhenHua , Zou ZhiHong , Wang LiPing
Published: July 2019

Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is the energy‐intensive industries. Energy is consumed at every stage of wastewater treatment. It is the main contributor to the costs of WWTP. Analysis and forecasting of energy consumption are critical to energy‐saving. Many factors influence energy consumption. The relationship between energy consumption and wastewater is complex and challenging to identify. This article employed the fuzzy clustering method to categorize the sample data of WWTP and analyzed the relationship between energy consumption and the influence factors in different categories. The study found that energy efficiency in various categories was changed and the same influence factors in different types had different influence intensity. The Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network was used to forecast energy consumption. The data from the complete set and categories was adopted to train and test the model. The results show that the RBF model using the date from the subset has better performance than the multivariable linear regression (MLR) model. The results of this study provided an essential theoretical basis for energy‐saving in WWTP.
Magmatic Signature in Submarine Hydrothermal Fluids Vented Offshore Ventotene and Zannone Islands (Pontine Archipelago, Central Italy)
Authors: Italiano Francesco , Romano Davide , Caruso Cinzia , Longo Manfredi , Corbo Andrea , Lazzaro Gianluca
Published: July 2019

Geochemical investigations carried out on submarine hydrothermal fluids vented offshore the Pontine Islands (Tyrrhenian Sea) revealed the existence of gas vents to the W of Zannone Island and SW of Ventotene Island. The geochemical features of the CO2-rich gas samples show a clear mantle-derived signature with3He/4He of 3.72-3.75 Ra and 1.33 Ra at Zannone and Ventotene, respectively. Gas geochemistry denotes how CO2-rich gases undergo fractionation processes due to CO2dissolution to a variable extent favoring enrichment in the less soluble gas species, i.e., CH4, N2, and He. The carbon isotope composition of CO2, expressed asδ13C vs. V-PDB, ranges from -0.71 and -6.16‰ at Zannone to 1.93‰ at Ventotene. Preliminary geothermometric and geobarometric estimations indicate equilibrium temperatures in the range of 150-200°C at Zannone and >200°C at Ventotene besides H2O pressures in the range of 5 bar and 20 bar at Zannone and Ventotene, respectively. Although the latest volcanic activity at the Pontine Archipelago is dated Middle Pleistocene, the combination of the new geochemical information along with geothermometric estimations indicates that cooling magmas are likely releasing enough thermal energy to form an efficient hydrothermal system.
Dynamical Analysis and Stabilization of Wind Turbine Drivetrain via Adaptive Fixed‐Time Terminal Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Yang Jianxiang , Mu Anle , Li Nailu
Published: July 2019

In order to study the stability of the wind turbine drivetrain in further depth, we present a nonlinear relative rotation mathematical model considering the nonlinear time‐varying stiffness and the nonlinear damping force. Meanwhile, the nonlinear dynamics of the model under combined harmonic excitation are studied in detail. And some interesting dynamic phenomena are observed visually. Furthermore, to suppress chaotic oscillation within bounded time independent of initial conditions, a novel adaptive fixed‐time terminal sliding mode controller is proposed. The stability of the final closed loop system is guaranteed according to Lyapunov stability theory. Rigorous mathematical analyses are used to prove the validity of the presented approach. Finally, compared with the existing finite‐time stability method, simulation results are given to highlight the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method and verify the theoretical analyses.
Antioxidants as Adjuvants in Periodontitis Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Castro Micaele Maria Lopes , Duarte Nathallia Neves , Nascimento Priscila Cunha , Magno Marcela Barauna , Fagundes Nathalia Carolina Fernandes , Flores-Mir Carlos , Monteiro Marta Chagas , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker , Maia Lucianne Cople , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: July 2019

This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of antioxidants as an adjuvant in periodontitis treatment. The following databases were consulted: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Lilacs, OpenGrey, and Google Scholar. Based on the PICO strategy, the inclusion criteria comprised interventional studies including periodontitis patients (participants) treated with conventional therapy and antioxidants (intervention) compared to patients treated only with conventional therapy (control) where the periodontal response (outcome) was evaluated. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane RoB tool (for randomized studies) and ROBINS-I tool (for nonrandomized studies). Quantitative data were analyzed in five random effects meta-analyses considering the following periodontal parameters: clinical attachment loss (CAL), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing depth (PD). After all, the level of certainty was measured with the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. Among the 1884 studies identified, only 15 interventional studies were according to the eligibility criteria and they were included in our review. From them, 4 articles presented a high risk of bias. The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant difference for CAL (SMD 0.29 (0.04, 0.55), p=0.03, I2=13%), PI (SMD 0.41 (0.18, 0.64), p=0.0005, I2=47%), and BOP (SMD 0.55 (0.27, 0.83), p=0.0001, I2=0%). The GRADE tool showed a moderate to high certainty in the quality of evidence depending on the clinical parameter and antioxidants used. These results suggest that the use of antioxidants is an adjunct approach to nonsurgical periodontal therapy which may be helpful in controlling the periodontal status.
UHRF1 Promotes Proliferation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and Suppresses Adipogenesis via Inhibiting Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorγ
Authors: Chen Ke , Guo Zi , Luo Yufang , Yuan Jingjing , Mo Zhaohui
Published: July 2019

Once the adipose tissue is enlarged for the purpose of saving excess energy intake, obesity may be observed. Ubiquitin-like with PHD and RING Finger domains 1 (UHRF1) is helpful in repairing damaged DNA as it increases the resistance of cancer cells against cytocidal drugs. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγ(PPARγ), an important nucleus transcription factor participating in adipogenesis, has been extensively reported. To date, no study has indicated whether UHRF1 can regulate proliferation and differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs). Hence, this study aimed to utilize overexpression or downregulation of UHRF1 to explore the possible mechanism of proliferation and differentiation of hADSCs. We here used lentivirus, containing UHRF1 (LV-UHRF1) and siRNA-UHRF1 to transfect hADSCs, on which Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), cell growth curve, colony formation assay, and EdU proliferation assay were applied to evaluate proliferation of hADSCs, cells cycle was investigated by flow cytometry, and adipogenesis was detected by Oil Red O staining and Western blotting. Our results showed that UHRF1 can promote proliferation of hADSCs after overexpression of UHRF1, while proliferation of hADSCs was reduced through downregulation of UHRF1, and UHRF1 can control proliferation of hADSCs through transition from G1-phase to S-phase; besides, we found that UHRF1 negatively regulates adipogenesis of hADSCs via PPARγ. In summary, the results may provide a new insight regarding the role of UHRF1 on regulating proliferation and differentiation of hADSCs.
Looking to the Future: Speech, Language, and Academic Outcomes in an Adolescent with Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Authors: Turner Samantha J. , Vogel Adam P. , Parry-Fielder Bronwyn , Campbell Rhonda , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Morgan Angela T.
Published: July 2019

Objective: The clinical course of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is poorly understood. Of the few longitudinal studies in the field, only one has examined adolescent outcomes in speech, language, and literacy. This study is the first to report long-term speech, language, and academic outcomes in an adolescent, Liam, with CAS. Methods: Speech, language, literacy, and academic outcome data were collected, including 3 research-based assessments. Overall, data were available at 17 time points from 3;10 to 15 years. Results: Liam had moderate-to-severe expressive language impairment and poor reading, writing, and spelling up to 10 years. His numeracy was at or above the national average from 8 to 14 years. He made gains in preadolescence, with average expressive language at 11 years and above average reading and writing at 14 years. Nonword reading, reading comprehension, and spelling remained areas of weakness. Receptive language impairment was evident at 13 years, which was an unexpected finding. Conclusion: Findings from single cases can be hypothesis generating but require verification in larger cohorts. This case shows that at least some children with CAS may gain ground in adolescence, relative to same age peers, in expressive language and academic areas such as reading and writing.
Visit-to-Visit B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Variability during the Previous Year Has Independent Prognostic Value in Patients with Stable Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kagiyama Nobuyuki , Yuri Takuya , Hayashida Akihiro , Hirohata Atsushi , Yamamoto Keizo , Yoshida Kiyoshi
Published: July 2019

Background: There is wide variability of visit-to-visit (V2V) B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), even when they are stable. The prognostic significance of V2V-BNP variability has not been investigated. We aimed to test whether V2V-BNP variability during the stable period of CHF has prognostic value regardless of BNP level. Methods: In 278 stable outpatients (75 ± 10 years, 65% male) with CHF, we studied V2V-BNP variability, which was defined as the coefficient of variance of BNP values measured during 1 year before enrollment. All-cause death and rehospitalization due to HF were considered the primary endpoint. Results: The median V2V-BNP variability was 25.7% (IQR: 19.2–34.4%). During the follow-up period (median 3.2 years), 100 patients reached the endpoint and those with high V2V-BNP variability (≥25.7%) had a significantly higher rate of events (p = 0.001). CHF severity in terms of BNP level and MAGGIC risk score was not significantly different between those with high and low V2V-BNP variability. Multivariable analysis showed that high V2V-BNP variability was independently associated with increased event rates even after adjustment for other known prognostic predictors, including BNP (hazard ratio 1.90, p = 0.003), or for MAGGIC risk score and BNP (hazard ratio 1.72, p = 0.010). The hazard for the outcome consistently increased as V2V-BNP variability increased, with a marked increase up to about 30%. Conclusions: Even in the stable phase of CHF, V2V-BNP variability was associated with worse long-term outcomes, independent of BNP level.
Sodium Fluctuations and Mortality in a General Hospitalized Population
Authors: Lombardi Gianmarco , Ferraro Pietro Manuel , Calvaruso Luca , Naticchia Alessandro , D’Alonzo Silvia , Gambaro Giovanni
Published: July 2019

Background/Aims: Aim of our study was to describe the association between natremia (Na) fluctuation and hospital mortality in a general population admitted to a tertiary medical center. Methods: We performed a retrospective observational cohort study on the patient population admitted to the Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS Hospital between January 2010 and December 2014 with inclusion of adult patients with at least 2 Na values available and with a normonatremic condition at hospital admission. Patients were categorized according to all Na values recorded during hospital stay in the following groups: normonatremia, hyponatremia, hypernatremia, and mixed dysnatremia. The difference between the highest or the lowest Na value reached during hospital stay and the Na value read at hospital admission was used to identify the maximum Na fluctuation. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for in-hospital death in the groups with dysnatremias and across quartiles of Na fluctuation. Covariates assessed were age, sex, highest and lowest Na level, Charlson/Deyo score, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, dementia, congestive heart failure, severe kidney disease, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and number of Na measurements during hospital stay. Results: 46,634 admissions matched inclusion criteria. Incident dysnatremia was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (hyponatremia: HR 3.11, 95% CI 2.53, 3.84, p < 0.001; hypernatremia: HR 5.12, 95% CI 3.94, 6.65, p < 0.001; mixed-dysnatremia: HR 4.94, 95% CI 3.08, 7.92, p < 0.001). We found a higher risk of in-hospital death by linear increase of quartile of Na fluctuation (p trend <0.001) irrespective of severity of dysnatremia (HR 2.34, 95% CI 1.55, 3.54, p < 0.001, for the highest quartile of Na fluctuation compared with the lowest). Conclusions: Incident dysnatremia is associated with higher hospital mortality. Fluctuation of Na during hospital stay is a prognostic marker for hospital death independent of dysnatremia severity.