bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare association of microfilaria with poorly differentiated mucin-secreting metastatic carcinoma in liver aspirate cytology
Authors: Gahine Renuka , Das Aditi , Jain Vishal Kumar , Agrawal Apurva
Published: October 2019

Filariasis, a neglected tropical disease (NTD), is mainly caused by nematodes—Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayiandB. timori. Apart from profoundly disabling and disfiguring major clinical manifestations—lymphoedema, elephantiasis and hydrocoele—asymptomatic microfilaremia is common in endemic areas. Despite this, it is very rare to detect microfilariae in body fluids or aspirates. As per the literature search, this is the third case documenting incidental detection of microfilariae with metastatic deposits in the liver aspirate. Here, a 35-year-old man underwent image-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology of liver nodule. Liver aspirate cytology revealed poorly differentiated mucin-secreting metastatic carcinoma and coincidental presence of microfilariae ofW. bancrofti. Recently, microfilaria has frequently been found to be associated with the debilitated, immunocompromised condition and various neoplasm/cancer/malignancy. Hence, meticulous investigation should be undertaken to search for hidden pathology, whenever microfilariae are detected; and to deeply scrutinise aspirates for such parasites always, especially in endemic regions.
First-principles investigation of the structural, elastic, electronic, and optical properties of semiconducting AgBr1–xIx (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) ternary alloys in rock-salt and zinc blende structures
Authors: Rekab-Djabri H. , Drief Mohamed , Abdus Salam Manal M. , Daoud Salah , El Haj Hassan F. , Louhibi-Fasla S.
Published: October 2019

In this work, first principle calculations of the structural, electronic, elastic, and optical properties of novel AgBr1–xIx ternary alloys in rock-salt (B1) and zinc-blende (B3) structures are presented. The calculations were performed using the full-potential linear muffin-tin orbital (FP-LMTO) method within the framework of the density functional theory (DFT). The exchange and correlation potentials were treated according to the local density approximation (LDA). The lattice constants for the B1 and B3 phases versus iodide concentration (x) were found to deviate slightly from the linear relationship of Vegard’s law. The calculated electronic properties showed that AgBr1–xIx alloys in the B3 structure have a direct band gap (Γ – Γ) for all concentrations of x, which means that they can be used in long-wavelength optoelectronic applications, while in the B1 structure they have an indirect (Γ – R) band gap. The elastic constants Cij, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus E, Poisson’s ratio ν, index of ductility B/G, sound velocities vt, vl, and vm, and Debye temperature θD were also reported and analyzed. By incorporating the basic optical properties, we discussed the dielectric function, refractive index, optical reflectivity, absorption coefficient, and optical conductivity in terms of incident photon energy up to 13.5 eV. The present results were found to be in good agreement with the available experimental and other theoretical results.
Extracting topological information from momentum space propagators
Authors: Canfora Fabrizio , Dudal David , Giacomini Alex , Justo Igor F. , Pais Pablo , Rosa Luigi
Published: October 2019

A new topological invariant quantity, sensitive to the analytic structure of both fermionic and bosonic propagators, is proposed. The gauge invariance of our construct is guaranteed for at least small gauge transformations. A generalization compatible with the presence of complex poles is introduced and applied to the classification of propagators typically emerging from non-perturbative considerations. We present partial evidence that the topological number can be used to detect chiral symmetry breaking or deconfinement.
Minimal geometric deformation in a Reissner–Nordström background
Authors: Rincón Ángel , Gabbanelli Luciano , Contreras Ernesto , Tello-Ortiz Francisco
Published: October 2019

This article is devoted to the study of new exact analytical solutions in the background of Reissner–Nordström space-time by using gravitational decoupling via minimal geometric deformation approach. To do so, we impose the most general equation of state, relating the components of the $$\theta $$θ-sector in order to obtain the new material contributions and the decoupler function f(r). Besides, we obtain the bounds on the free parameters of the extended solution to avoid new singularities. Furthermore, we show the finitude of all thermodynamic parameters of the solution such as the effective density $${\tilde{\rho }}$$ρ~, radial $${\tilde{p}}_{r}$$p~r and tangential $${\tilde{p}}_{t}$$p~t pressure for different values of parameter $$\alpha $$α and the total electric charge Q. Finally, the behavior of some scalar invariants, namely the Ricci R and Kretshmann $$R_{\mu \nu \omega \epsilon }R^{\mu \nu \omega \epsilon }$$RμνωϵRμνωϵ scalars are analyzed. It is also remarkable that, after an appropriate limit, the deformed Schwarzschild black hole solution always can be recovered.
Adolescence as a Biocultural Life History Transition
Authors: Reiches Meredith W.
Published: October 2019

While the categories of adolescence and puberty are often treated as one, the existence of two distinct terms points to different kinds of maturation in humans. Puberty refers to a period of coordinated somatic growth and reproductive maturation that shifts individuals from nonreproductive juvenility to reproductive maturity. Adolescence includes the behavioral and social assumption of adult roles. Life history theory offers powerful tools for understanding why puberty occurs later in humans than in other primates, including the benefits of delayed reproduction as part of a cooperation-intensive life history strategy. It also sheds light on the ways that pubertal timing responds to environmental variation. I review the mechanisms of maturation in humans and propose biocultural approaches to integrate life historical understandings of puberty with a broader definition of environment to encompass the concept of adolescence.
Autophagy in Kidney Disease
Authors: Choi Mary E.
Published: October 2019

Autophagy is a cellular homeostatic program for the turnover of cellular organelles and proteins, in which double-membraned vesicles (autophagosomes) sequester cytoplasmic cargos, which are subsequently delivered to the lysosome for degradation. Emerging evidence implicates autophagy as an important modulator of human disease. Macroautophagy and selective autophagy (e.g., mitophagy, aggrephagy) can influence cellular processes, including cell death, inflammation, and immune responses, and thereby exert both adaptive and maladaptive roles in disease pathogenesis. Autophagy has been implicated in acute kidney injury, which can arise in response to nephrotoxins, sepsis, and ischemia/reperfusion, and in chronic kidney diseases. The latter includes comorbidities of diabetes and recent evidence for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease–associated kidney injury. Roles of autophagy in polycystic kidney disease and kidney cancer have also been described. Targeting the autophagy pathway may have therapeutic benefit in the treatment of kidney disorders.
Every presentation is a performance
Authors: Curran-Everett Douglas
Published: October 2019

Good presentation skills are important. Why? When you improve your presentation skills, you improve your ability to engage your audience and communicate whatever science you happen to do. In graduate school you learn how to do research, and you sometimes learn how to teach, but how often do you actually learn how to give an effective, engaging presentation? In this personal view I recount some of my early experiences as a presenter and some of the techniques I use to (hopefully) engage my audiences.
Effects of hyperoxia on alveolar and pulmonary vascular development in germ-free mice
Authors: Dolma Kalsang , Freeman Amelia E. , Rezonzew Gabriel , Payne Gregory A. , Xu Xin , Jilling Tamas , Blalock J. Edwin , Gaggar Amit , Ambalavanan Namasivayam , Lal Charitharth Vivek
Published: October 2019

Airway microbial dysbiosis is associated with subsequent bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) development in very preterm infants. However, the relationship of airway microbiome in normal pulmonary development has not been defined. To better understand the role of the airway microbiome, we compared normal and abnormal alveolar and pulmonary vascular development in mice with or without a microbiome. We hypothesized that the lungs of germ-free (GF) mice would have an exaggerated phenotypic response to hyperoxia compared with non–germ-free (NGF) mice. With the use of a novel gnotobiotic hyperoxia chamber, GF and NGF mice were exposed to either normoxia or hyperoxia. Alveolar morphometry, pulmonary mechanics, echocardiograms, inflammatory markers, and measures of pulmonary hypertension were studied. GF and NGF mice in normoxia showed no difference, whereas GF mice in hyperoxia showed protected lung structure and mechanics and decreased markers of inflammation compared with NGF mice. We speculate that an increase in abundance of pathogenic bacteria in NGF mice may play a role in BPD pathogenesis by regulating the proinflammatory signaling and neutrophilic inflammation in lungs. Manipulation of the airway microbiome may be a potential therapeutic intervention in BPD and other lung diseases.
Performance Analysis of Piezoelectric Actuators in Railway Wheel Squealing Noise Mitigation
Authors: Marjani Seyed Rahim , Younesian Davood
Published: October 2019

Application of a shunted piezoelectric system in reduction of the squeal noise level in railway wheels is studied. A wheel squeal model including the railway track, wheel, and nonlinear interaction contact forces is taken into account in the time domain. Consequent vibration of the wheel is calculated at incident of sharp curve passing. The sound pressure level (SPL) of the noise is then calculated by an analytical method. Performance of different shunt circuits including the R (resistance) and RL (resistance inductance) is evaluated in different frequency ranges. A new methodology is proposed to achieve multimode damping. According to results, the SPL of wheel squeal noise can effectively get reduced by the proposed method, up to 5 dB at near‐field and 10 dB at far‐field.
Design of Contour Error Coupling Controller Based on Neural Network Friction Compensation
Authors: Wang Sanxiu , Chen Guang , Cui Yueli
Published: October 2019

In two‐axis servo contour motion control, friction and various uncertainties unavoidably exist, reducing the contour control accuracy. This paper proposes a neural network contour error coupling control method based on LuGre friction compensation, which includes a contour error calculation model, single‐axis computed torque controller (CTC), and neural network friction compensation controller. The LuGre friction model can describe servo system’s complicated static and dynamic friction characteristics, and the RBF neural network has a universal approximation property to realize compensation control of friction. Simulation results indicate that the proposed contour error control method can effectively compensate for the effect of friction and improve contour control accuracy.
Drug-Related Problems and Associated Factors among Patients Admitted with Chronic Kidney Disease at Jimma University Medical Center, Jimma Zone, Jimma, Southwest Ethiopia: A Hospital-Based Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Garedow Aster Wakjira , Mulisa Bobasa Eshetu , Desalegn Wolide Amare , Kerga Dibaba Fantu , Gashe Fufa Fanta , Idilu Tufa Birtukan , Debalke Serkadis , Kumela Goro Kabaye
Published: October 2019

Background. There is an alarming rise of chronic kidney disease prevalence globally associated with significant morbidity and mortality necessitating special attention as one of the major growing public health problems. Medication-related problems are common in hospitalized patients including chronic kidney disease and may lead to increase hospital stay and health care cost and augment the risk of morbidity and mortality. Objective. To determine prevalence of medication-related problems and associated factors among chronic kidney disease patients admitted to Jimma University Medical Center from April to September 2018. Methods. A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among 103 chronic kidney disease patients admitted to Jimma University Medical Center from April to September 2018. Data regarding patient characteristics, medications, diagnosis, length of hospitalization, and laboratory results were collected through review of patients’ medical charts. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was utilized to assess the associations between dependent and independent variables. Statistical significance was considered at p value <0.05. Results. Out of 103 chronic kidney disease patients, 81 (78.6%) of patients had MDRs, on average 1.94 ± 0.873 per patient. The rate of overall MRPs was 30.95 per 100 medication orders. The most common MRPs among CKD patients were need additional drug therapy (62 (31%)), nonadherence (40 (20%)), and dose too low (36 (18%)). The most common cause of need additional drug therapy (52 (26%)) was untreated medical conditions; nonadherence (19 (9.5%)) was mostly due to that the patient/caregiver forgets to take/give the medication, and dose too low (29 (14.5%)) was mostly due to that the dose is too low to produce the desired response. Polypharmacy (AOR = 4.695, 95% CI: 1.370–16.091), number of comorbidities (AOR = 3.616, 95% CI: 1.015–1.8741), and stage of CKD (AOR = 3.941, 95% CI: 1.221–12.715) were independent predictors for MRPs. Conclusions. We have demonstrated that medication-related problems are high among chronic kidney disease patients. Marital statuses, stage of CKD, polypharmacy, and comorbidity were independent predictors for MRPs. Interdisciplinary health professionals should work to decrease the high prevalence of MRPs among chronic kidney disease patients.
Recent Developments in Nanostructured Palladium and Other Metal Catalysts for Organic Transformation
Authors: Shakil Hussain S. M. , Kamal Muhammad Shahzad , Hossain Mohammad Kamal
Published: October 2019

Nanocatalysis is an emerging field of research and is applicable to nearly all kinds of catalytic organic conversions. Nanotechnology is playing an important role in both industrial applications and academic research. The catalytic activities become pronounced as the size of the catalyst reduces and the surface area-to-volume ratio increases which ultimately enhance the activity and selectivity of nanocatalysts. Similarly, the morphology of the particles also has a great impact on the activity and selectivity of nanocatalysts. Moreover, the electronic properties and geometric structure of nanocatalysts can be affected by polar and nonpolar solvents. Various forms of nanocatalysts have been reported including supported nanocatalysts, Schiff-based nanocatalysts, graphene-based nanocatalysts, thin-film nanocatalysts, mixed metal oxide nanocatalysts, magnetic nanocatalysts, and core-shell nanocatalysts. Among a variety of different rare earth and transition metals, palladium-based nanocatalysts have been extensively studied both in academia and in the industry because of their applications such as in carbon-carbon cross-coupling reactions, carbon-carbon homocoupling reactions, carbon-heteroatom cross-coupling reactions, and C-H activation, hydrogenation, esterification, oxidation, and reduction. The current review highlights the recent developments in the synthesis of palladium and some other metal nanocatalysts and their potential applications in various organic reactions.
Molecular Structure Characteristics and Wetting Behaviors of Alkyl Binary Doped Ionic Liquids’ Thin Lubricating Films on Silicon Surfaces: Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Sisi , Sun He , Huang Xiaoning , Ruan Shuangshuang , Lu Haixu , Tang Zhicheng , Wu Yunwen
Published: October 2019

The molecular structure characteristics and wetting behaviors of alkyl binary doped ionic liquids’ (ILs) thin lubricating film on silicon surfaces, which are composed of a (DA) self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) and a binary doped ILs layer, are probed by molecular dynamics simulations. In the binary doped ILs layer, 1‐carboxyethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([CMIM]Cl) ILs were bonded to the terminal amino (NH2) groups of the DA SAM, and 1‐dodecyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([DMIM]PF6) ILs were distributed around the [CMIM]Cl molecules by physical adsorption. Additionally, surface coverage and chain grafting positions of the bonded‐phase [CMIM]Cl and the adsorption properties of mobile‐phase [DMIM]PF6 were investigated. The simulation results revealed that the optimal surface coverage of [CMIM]Cl on the DA SAM was 50% with a lateral spacing of 2a and a longitudinal spacing of , in which a is the space between the adjacent molecules. Meanwhile, the optimal molecular ratio of [CMIM]Cl to [DMIM]PF6 was 1 : 4, leading to the stablest structure of the lubricating film. Wetting behaviors of thin lubricating film on silicon surfaces showed good hydrophobicity, which is helpful for reducing friction and adhesion. It can be anticipated that the alkyl binary doped ILs’ thin lubricating film is suitable for antifriction and antiadhesion applications on silicon surfaces.
A Multiobjective Bilevel Programming Model for Environmentally Friendly Traffic Signal Timings
Authors: Baskan Ozgur
Published: October 2019

Rapid urbanization and mobility needs of road users increase traffic congestion and delay on urban road networks. Thus, local authorities aim to reduce users’ total travel time through providing a balance between traffic volume and capacity. To do this, they optimize traffic signal timings, which is one of the most preferred methods, and thus they can increase the reserve capacity of a road network. However, more travel demand along with more reserve capacity leads to vehicle emissions problem which has become quite dangerous for road users, especially in developing countries. Therefore, this study presents a multiobjective bilevel programming model which considers both the maximization of reserve capacity of a road network and the minimization of vehicle emissions by aiming to achieve environmentally friendly signal timings. At the upper level, Pareto‐optimal solutions of the proposed multiobjective model are found based on differential evolution algorithm framework by using the weighted sum method. Stochastic traffic assignment problem is presented at the lower level to evaluate the users’ reactions. Two signalized road networks are chosen to show the effectiveness of the proposed model. The first one is a small network consisting two signalized intersections that are used to show the effect of the weighting factor on the proposed multiobjective model. The other road network with 96 O‐D pairs and 9 signalized intersections is chosen as the second numerical application to investigate the performance of the proposed model on relatively large road networks. It is believed that results of this study may provide useful insights to local authorities who are responsible for regulating traffic operations with environmental awareness at the same time.
Evaluation of the Trapped Surface Wave of a Vertical Electric Dipole Based on Undetermined Coefficient Method in the Presence of N-Layered Region: A Graphical Approach
Authors: Xu Hong Lei , Gu Ting Ting , Zhu Yong , Wei Xiao , Li Liang Sheng , Yin Hong Cheng
Published: October 2019

In previous studies, the trapped surface wave, which is defined by the residue sums, has been addressed in the evaluation of the Sommerfeld integrals describing electromagnetic field of a vertical dipole in the presence of three-layered or four-layered region. But unfortunately, the existing computational scheme cannot provide analytical solution of the field in the presence of the N-layered region when N > 4. The scope of this paper is to overcome the limitations in root finding algorithm implied by the previous approach and provide solution of poles in stratified media. A set of pole equations following with explicit expressions are derived based on the undetermined coefficient method, which enable a graphical approach to obtain initial values of real roots. Accordingly, the generated trapped surface wave components are computed when both the observation point and the electric dipole source are on or near the surface of a dielectric-coated conductor. Validity, efficiency, and accuracy of the proposed method are illustrated by numerical examples.
Near‐Optimal Guidance with Impact Angle and Velocity Constraints Using Sequential Convex Programming
Authors: Pei Pei , Wang Jiang
Published: October 2019

This paper proposes a near‐optimal air‐to‐ground missile guidance law with impact angle and impact velocity constraints based on sequential convex programming. A realistic aerodynamic model is introduced into the problem formulation, such that traditional optimization theory cannot obtain an analytical solution to the optimization problem under state constraints. The original problem is considered as an optimization problem, and the angle of attack is replaced with the angle of attack rate as a new control variable to reconstruct the problem and simplify the solving process. Next, the independent variable is changed in the differential equations to linearize and discretize the problem such that the reconstructed problem can be solved using sequential convex programming. The results obtained by numerical simulations confirmed that the proposed algorithm is valid and faster than the general‐purpose nonlinear optimal control problem solver. Finally, it was verified that different impact angles and impact velocities were achieved.
A Prediction Model for Sustained Casing Pressure under the Effect of Gas Migration Variety
Authors: Feng Fuping , Cong Ziyuan , Shan Wuyi , Hu Chaoyang , Yan Maosen , Han Xu
Published: October 2019

Sustained casing pressure (SCP) is a challenge in the well integrity management in oil and gas fields around the world. The flow state of leaked gas will change when migrated up annulus protective fluid. To show the influence of gas migration on casing pressure recovery, a prediction model of SCP based on Reynolds number of bubbles was established. The casing pressure prediction of typical wells and the sensitivity analysis of casing pressure are performed. The results show that the casing pressure recovery time decreases with the increase of cement permeability. However, larger cement permeability has little effect on the casing pressure after stabilization. Increasing the height of annulus protective fluid reduces the stable casing pressure value and shortens the casing pressure recovery time. Compared with the existing models, the results show that the time of casing pressure recovery will be shortened by the change of gas migration, and the effect of bubbles Re < 1 on SCP will be greater. The new model can be used to detect and treat the SCP problem caused by small Reynolds number gas leakage.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in a Renal Transplant Patient Following Seasonal Influenza Vaccination
Authors: Gani Imran , Hinnant George , Kapoor Rajan , Savage Natasha
Published: October 2019

Vaccines aim to prevent disease occurrence, its severity, and resultant complications. Our patient, a 58-year-old male, received seasonal influenza vaccination as part of routine health maintenance. Three days later, he presented with malaise, fever, and yellowish discoloration of eyes. His labs showed hyperbilirubinemia, anemia, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, and low haptoglobin, consistent with hemolytic anemia. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia has been associated with vaccine use and may result from phenomena of molecular mimicry and cross-reactivity with the possible role of vaccine adjuvants as well. An underlying structural defect of the red blood cell membrane may make them prone to hemolysis. The differential diagnosis and work-up of hemolytic anemia is extensive, as performed in our case. Management strategies for vaccine-induced hemolysis may involve supportive care, red blood cell transfusion, steroids, and intravenous immunoglobulin.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Esophageal Candidiasis: Current Updates
Authors: Mohamed Abdimajid Ahmed , Lu Xin-liang , Mounmin Faycal Awaleh
Published: October 2019

Esophageal candidiasis (EC) is the most common type of infectious esophagitis. In the gastrointestinal tract, the esophagus is the second most susceptible to candida infection, only after the oropharynx. Immunocompromised patients are most at risk, including patients with HIV/AIDS, leukemia, diabetics, and those who are receiving corticosteroids, radiation, and chemotherapy. Another group includes those who used antibiotics frequently and those who have esophageal motility disorder (cardiac achalasia and scleroderma). Patients complained of pain on swallowing, difficulty swallowing, and pain behind the sternum. On physical examination, there is a plaque that often occurs together with oral thrush. Endoscopic examination is the best approach to diagnose this disease by directly observing the white mucosal plaque-like lesions and exudates adherent to the mucosa. These adherent lesions cannot be washed off with water from irrigation. This disease is confirmed histologically by taking the biopsy or brushings of yeast and pseudohyphae invading mucosal cells. The treatment is by systemic antifungal drugs given orally in a defined course. It is important to differentiate esophageal candidiasis from other forms of infectious esophagitis such as cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, gastroesophageal reflux disease, medication-induced esophagitis, radiation-induced esophageal injury, and inflammatory conditions such as eosinophilic esophagitis. Except for a few complications such as necrotizing esophageal candidiasis, fistula, and sepsis, the prognosis of esophageal candidiasis has been good.
Opioid Safety and Concomitant Benzodiazepine Use in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients
Authors: Ruchi Rupam , Bozorgmehri Shahab , Ozrazgat-Baslanti Tezcan , Segal Mark S , Shukla Ashutosh M , Mohandas Rajesh , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: October 2019

Background. Opioid use is common in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. However, safety of individual opioids and concomitant benzodiazepine use has not been studied. Objective. To study the epidemiology of opioid and concomitant benzodiazepine use in ESRD population. To study the clinical safety profile of individual opioids in patients on hemodialysis. Design. Retrospective analysis of the U.S. Renal Data System. A comprehensive review of the current literature was performed to update currently used opioid safety classification. Participants. ESRD patients ≥18 years on hemodialysis who were enrolled in Medicare A and B and Part D between 2006 and 2012, excluding those with malignancy. Main Measures. Hospital admission with diagnosis of prescription opioid overdose within 30, 60, and 90 days of prescription; death due to opioid overdose. Results. Annually, the percentage of patients prescribed any opioid was 52.2%. Overall trend has been increasing except for a small dip in 2011, despite which the admissions due to opioid overdose have been rising. 30% of those who got a prescription for opioids also got a benzodiazepine prescription. 56.5% of these patients received both prescriptions within a week of each other. Benzodiazepine use increased the odds of being on opioids by 3.27 (CI 3.21–3.32) and increased the odds of hospitalization by 50%. Opioids considered safe such as fentanyl and methadone were associated with 3 and 6 folds higher odds of hospitalization within 30 days of prescription. Hydrocodone had the lowest odds ratio (1.9, CI 1.8–2.0). Conclusions. Concurrent benzodiazepine use is common and associated with higher risk of hospitalization due to opioid overdose. Possible opioid-associated hospital admission rate is 4-5 times bigger in ESRD population than general population. Current safety classification of opioids in these patients is misleading, and even drugs considered safe based on pharmacokinetic data are associated with moderate to very high risk of hospitalization. We propose a risk-stratified classification of opioids and suggest starting to use them in all ESRD patients.
Portfolio Selection Based on Bayesian Theory
Authors: Zhao Daping , Fang Yong , Zhang Chaoliang , Wang Zongrun
Published: October 2019

The traditional portfolio selection model seriously overestimates its theoretic optimal return. Aiming at this problem, two portfolio selection models are proposed to modify the parameters and enhance portfolio performance based on Bayesian theory. Firstly, a Bayesian‐GARCH(1,1) model is built. Secondly, Markov Chain is applied to curve the parameters’ state transfer, and a Bayesian Markov regime‐Switching‐GARCH(1,1) model is constructed. Both the two models can handle the overestimation problem and can obtain self‐financing portfolios. In the numerical experiments, both the models are examined with data from China stock market, and their performances are compared and analyzed. The results show that BMS‐GARCH(1,1) model is superior to the Bayesian‐GARCH(1,1) model.
Hemoptysis due to Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation after Coil Embolization during Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Shimohira Masashi , Iwata Kenji , Ohta Kengo , Sawada Yusuke , Hashimoto Takeshi , Okuda Katsuhiro , Nakanishi Ryoichi , Shibamoto Yuta
Published: October 2019

A 28-year-old man with a history of coil embolization of multiple pulmonary arteriovenous malformations presented with hemoptysis 11 years after initial embolization. A cavity lesion in the left upper lobe, which was accompanied by deformed coils and ground-glass opacity, was considered responsible for hemoptysis. Embolization of the bronchial artery was performed.
Numerical Computation and Stability Analysis for the Fractional Subdiffusions with Spatial Variable Coefficients
Authors: Ren Lei
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we propose an efficient compact finite difference method for a class of time‐fractional subdiffusion equations with spatially variable coefficients. Based on the L2‐1σ approximation formula of the time‐fractional derivative and a fourth‐order compact finite difference approximation to the spatial derivative, an efficient compact finite difference method is developed. The local truncation error and the solvability of the developed method are discussed in detail. The unconditional stability of the resulting scheme and also its convergence of second‐order in time and fourth‐order in space are rigorously proved using a discrete energy analysis method. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the accuracy and the theoretical results.
Asymptotic Behavior of Ruin Probabilities in an Insurance Risk Model with Quasi‐Asymptotically Independent or Bivariate Regularly Varying‐Tailed Main Claim and By‐Claim
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Xinzhi , Su Xiaonan , Zhang Aili
Published: October 2019

This paper considers a by‐claim risk model under the asymptotical independence or asymptotical dependence structure between each main claim and its by‐claim. In the presence of heavy‐tailed main claims and by‐claims, we derive some asymptotic behavior for ruin probabilities.
Transmutations of Long-Lived and Medium-Lived Fission Products Extracted from CANDU and PWR Spent Fuels in an Accelerator-Driven System
Authors: Arslan Alper Buğra , Yilmaz İlayda , Bakir Gizem , Yapici Hüseyin
Published: October 2019

This study presents the time-dependent analyses of transmutations of long-lived fission products (LLFPs) and medium-lived fission products (MLFPs) occurring in thermal reactors in a conceptual helium gas-cooled accelerator-driven system (ADS). In accordance with this purpose, the CANDU-37 and PWR 15 × 15 spent fuels are separately considered. The ADS consists of LBE-spallation neutron target, subcritical fuel zone, and graphite reflector zone. While the considered ADS is fueled with the spent nuclear fuels extracted from each thermal reactor without the use of additional fuel, fission products extracted from same thermal reactor are also placed into transmutation zone in graphite reflector zone. The LLFP transmutation performance of the modified ADS is analyzed by considering three different spent fuels extracted from the thermal reactors. Spent fuels are extracted from CANDU-37 in case A, from PWR-15 × 15 in case B, and from CANDU-37 fueled with mixture of PWR 15 × 15 spent fuel and 46% ThO2 in case C. The LBE target is bombard with protons of 1000 MeV. The proton beam power is assumed as 20 MW, which corresponds to 1.24828·1017 protons per second. MCNPX 2.7 and CINDER 90 computer codes are used for the time-dependent burn calculations. The ADS is operated under subcritical mode until the value of keff increases to 0.984, and the maximum operation times are obtained as 3400, 3270, and 5040 days according to the spent fuel cases of A, B, and C, respectively. The calculations bring out that in the modified ADS, LLFPs and MLFPs, which are extracted from thermal reactors, can be transformed to stable isotopes in significant amounts along with energy production.
Semitransparent Building-Integrated Photovoltaic: Review on Energy Performance, Challenges, and Future Potential
Authors: Joseph Benedicto , Pogrebnaya Tatiana , Kichonge Baraka
Published: October 2019

Buildings consume large amounts of energy, and their transformation from energy users to producers has attracted increasing interest in the quest to help optimize the energy share, increasing energy efficiency and environmental protection. The use of energy-efficient materials is among the proposed approaches to increase the building’s energy balance, thus increasing the performance of building facades. Semitransparent building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV), being one of the technologies with the potential to increase a building’s energy efficiency, is considered as a feasible method for renewable power generation to help buildings meet their own load, thus serving dual purposes. Semitransparent BIPV integration into buildings not only displaces conventional building facade materials but also simultaneously generates energy while retaining traditional functional roles. The awareness in improving building energy efficiency has increased as well as the awareness in promoting the use of clean or renewable energy technologies. In this study, semitransparent BIPV technology is reviewed in terms of energy generation, challenges, and ways to address limitations which can be used as a reference for the BIPV stakeholders.
The Online Research of B2O3 on Crystal Behavior of High Ti-Bearing Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Lin Yin-he , Zheng Bin , Luo Lin-gen , Jia Yu-long , Zhang Li-qiang
Published: October 2019

The existence and phase structures of high Ti-bearing blast furnace slag at a high temperature are the key issue to flow performance and reaction temperature. It is essential to evaluate the physical-chemical properties, such as viscosity and melting point In this work, a new method of online research of B2O3 on crystal behavior of high Ti-bearing blast furnace slag is proposed. By ultrahigh-temperature confocal laser scanning microscope and area scanning analysis, it can be concluded that the effect of B2O3 additives on the viscosity has a more obvious effect among the low-temperature region of the slag. Compared to the samples without B2O3 additives, the liquid phase of Ti-bearing slag with B2O3 additives appears earlier at the same experimental temperature, and the solid particles floating on the surface of liquid slag become less. Moreover, the B2O3 additives can promote the migration of titanium elements from the high melting point phase to the low melting point phase, and the transferring quantity increases with the addition of the amount of B2O3 additives. These results demonstrate that B2O3 additives can restrain the appearance of the perovskite phase, decrease the apparent viscosity, and promote the metallurgical properties of Ti-bearing blast furnace slag.
On Dynamic Mesh Force Evaluation of Spiral Bevel Gears
Authors: Sun Xiaoyu , Zhao Yongqiang , Liu Ming , Liu Yanping
Published: October 2019

The mesh model and mesh stiffness representation are the two main factors affecting the calculation method and the results of the dynamic mesh force. Comparative studies considering the two factors are performed to explore appropriate approaches to estimate the dynamic meshing load on each contacting tooth flank of spiral bevel gears. First, a tooth pair mesh model is proposed to better describe the mesh characteristics of individual tooth pairs in contact. The mesh parameters including the mesh vector, transmission error, and mesh stiffness are compared with those of the extensively applied single‐point mesh model of a gear pair. Dynamic results from the proposed model indicate that it can reveal a more realistic and pronounced dynamic behavior of each engaged tooth pair. Second, dynamic mesh force calculations from three different approaches are compared to further investigate the effect of mesh stiffness representations. One method uses the mesh stiffness estimated by the commonly used average slope approach, the second method applies the mesh stiffness evaluated by the local slope approach, and the third approach utilizes a quasistatically defined interpolation function indexed by mesh deflection and mesh position.
The Utility of Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Tests for the Prediction of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Extremely Premature Infants
Authors: Chen Xueyu , Lin Binchun , Xiong Xiaoyun , Sun Panpan , Kong Yanqing , Yang Chuanzhong
Published: October 2019

Background. Comprehensive metabolic panel tests (CMP) are routinely performed in extremely premature infants within the first days of life. The association between the parameters of first postnatal CMP and the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains elusive. Methods. A retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between the parameters of first postnatal CMP and the risk of BPD in a cohort of extremely premature infants (born with a gestational age less than 28 weeks or a birth weight less than 1000 grams) at the neonatal intensive care unit, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, from January 2016 to October 2018. A multivariant regression model was built to assess the association of the first postnatal CMP with the development of BPD. Results. A total of 256 extremely premature infants were included in this study. BPD developed in 76 (29.7%) infants. The first CMP in these infants was performed at 5 to 8 days after birth. The levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and magnesium were significantly higher in infants with BPD compared to infants with no BPD (10.2 versus 7.5 mmol/L, P<0.001 and 0.9 versus 0.8 U/L, P=0.001, respectively) whereas the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total protein was significantly lower in infants with BPD (215.5 versus 310.0 U/L, P=0.002 and 41.2 versus 42.9 g/L, P=0.037, respectively). Multiple analysis showed that a higher level of BUN (>8.18 mmol/L) was independently associated with BPD (OR 3.261, 95% CI 1.779-5.978). Conclusion. Our findings indicate that a higher postnatal BUN level (>8.18 mmol/L) may be a predictor for the development of BPD in extremely premature infants.
Drug Induced Liver Injury Attributed to a Curcumin Supplement
Authors: Imam Zaid , Khasawneh Majd , Jomaa Diana , Iftikhar Hira , Sayedahmad Ziad
Published: October 2019

More severe reactions, higher acute liver failure rates, and higher recurrence rates on re-challenge occur with supplement-related Drug Induced Liver Injury (DILI) (Medina-Caliz et al., 2018). We report a case of curcumin-induced hepatocellular DILI in a 78-year old female admitted with jaundice, with a one-month latency. Extensive evaluation for alternative etiologies of hepatotoxicity was unremarkable. The Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method (RUCAM) score of 6 for the supplement indicated a probable association (score >8: highly probable association). Peak levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were >20 times upper limit of normal. A 48% decrease in AST and ALT levels was observed 7 days after discontinuation of the supplement, and resolution of transaminitis was observed in 42 days. No re-challenge was performed. In conclusion, this case emphasizes the importance of recognizing curcumin supplements as DILI triggers. Furthermore, it reiterates the need for careful evaluation of herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) consumed by patients to identify potential DILI culprits, and to ultimately prevent DILI reactions with significant morbidity and mortality.
The Gut Microbiota in Women Suffering from Gestational Diabetes Mellitus with the Failure of Glycemic Control by Lifestyle Modification
Authors: Ye Guangyong , Zhang Long , Wang Min , Chen Yunbo , Gu Silan , Wang Keyi , Leng Jianhang , Gu Yujia , Xie Xinyou
Published: October 2019

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is prevalent worldwide, leading to a high risk of significant morbidity for both the mother and offspring with complications. Increasing evidences suggest that gut microbiota plays a role in the pathogenesis of GDM. Lifestyle modification is the cornerstones of GDM treatment. However, a number of patients whose blood glucose is not controlled by lifestyle modification still require exogenous insulin to control blood glucose. No observational study is available about the relationship between the gut microbiota in GDM patients and lifestyle modifications. Thus, we investigated the differences in gut microbiota between GDM patients with successful glycemic control (GDM1) and failure of glycemic control (GDM2) by lifestyle modifications. We sequenced the V3-V4 regions of 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene from stool samples of 52 singleton pregnant women with 24–28 weeks of gestation. Our results showed that Blautia, Eubacterium_hallii_group, and Faecalibacterium in the gut microbiota showed significant differences among the normoglycemic mother, GDM1, and GDM2 groups, respectively. The combined diagnostic performance of Blautia, Eubacterium_hallii_group, and Faecalibacterium in differentiating GDM2 from GDM was considered as the most reasonable identification indicator. Gut bacteria may participate in the pathological development of GDM2 through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway. These results indicated that Blautia, Eubacterium_hallii_group, and Faecalibacterium had important characteristic changes in the gut microbiota of women with GDM2.
Convergence Time Calculation for Supertwisting Algorithm and Application for Nonaffine Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Zhu Quanmin , Li Yang
Published: October 2019

In this study, an accurate convergence time of the supertwisting algorithm (STA) is proposed to build up a framework for nonaffine nonlinear systems’ finite‐time control. The convergence time of the STA is provided by calculating the solution of a differential equation instead of constructing Lyapunov function. Therefore, precise convergence time is presented instead of estimation of the upper bound of the algorithm’s reaching time. Regardless of affine or nonaffine nonlinear systems, supertwisting control (STC) provides a general solution based on virtual control law skill ensuring the output of the systems converges to the origin point at exact time. Benchmark tests are simulated to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the algorithm.
Laser-Assisted Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Saudi Population: A Prospective Clinical Intervention of Low-Level Laser Therapy in the 1st Week of Pain Perception in Four Treatment Modalities
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: October 2019

Background. This first-in-human study in Saudi orthodontic patients has evaluated the role of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in pain perception (PP). The outcome of single application of LLLT with 4 different treatment modalities (TM) on PP are evaluated following orthodontic bracket bonding on maxilla. Materials and Methods. A prospective clinical intervention with implementation of parallel technique in each group, 32 orthodontic patients with ectopic canine requiring fixed orthodontic appliance were enrolled and randomly allocated to the 4 groups: LLLT + self-ligating (SL) bracket, LLLT + conventional (Conv.) bracket, non-LLLT + SL bracket, and non-LLLT + Conv. bracket. Orthodontic bracket bonding from 1st molar to 1st molar and superelastic 0.012 inch NiTi were applied for the maxilla. For each patient, maxillary 1st molar to molar received a single application of LLLT using a 940 nm Ga-Al-As laser device on 5 different points labially/buccally and palatally. Main outcome measure was the degree of PP score during the 1st week of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) after 4 hours, 24 hours, 3 days, and 7 days of both LLLT and non-LLLT treatment applications. A questionnaire with an 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS) was used for PP. Results. Mean ± SD of PP in the LLLT + SL group was 3.33 ± 1.4, 3.58 ± 1.06, 2.31 ± 0.67, and 1.89 ± 0.54 in 4 hours, 24 hours, 3 days, and 7 days, respectively. Compared to all 4 TM groups, LLLT groups showed better PP. More statistically significant differences were found in LLLT groups. No harms were encountered. Limitations. The intervention provider and the patient were not blinded to the intervention. Conclusion. The LLLT + SL group revealed significantly promising benefits on PP during OTM.
Microstructure and Properties of TiSiN/AlN with Different Modulation Periods
Authors: Yan Hongjuan , Tian Qinye , Liu Fengbin , Si Lina , Dou Zhaoliang , Zhang Shuting
Published: October 2019

TiSiN/AlN nanomultilayers with different thicknesses of AlN layer were deposited on 304 stainless steel by magnetron sputtering system. X-ray diffraction, nanoindentation tester, atomic force microscopy, and friction wear tester were used to characterize microstructure and properties of TiSiN/AlN nanomultilayers. The results show that TiSiN/AlN nanomultilayers are face-centered cubic structures and exhibit a strong preferred orientation on (200) plane. The diffraction peaks of TiSIN/AlN nanomultilayer shift to a small angle. When the thickness of the AlN layer is 2 nm, the peak is highest, and the shift degree is biggest. The alternating tension and compression stress fields are formed along the growth direction of TiSiN/AlN nanomultilayers and increase the strength of the namomultilayers. When the thickness of the AlN layer is 2 nm, the maximum hardness and Young’s modulus of TiSiN/AlN nanomultilayers are, respectively, 32.8 GPa and 472 GPa, and the smallest roughness is 33.4 nm. But the friction coefficient is smallest when the thickness of the AlN layer is 1.5 nm.