bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Winding Parameters Based on Multiobjective Decision-Making and Fuzzy Optimization Theory
Authors: Jiang Wenping , Min Jun
Published: June 2019

The design tries to solve the problem of low pass rate of platinum wire production and the waste of platinum in company. The paper uses multiobjective decision system fuzzy optimization theory to analyze five parameters, which are tensile strength, ductility, fracture load, filling aperture, and resistance. Besides, MATLAB software is used to write programs and calculate. To sum up the above analysis, the weight vector of five parameters is obtained and that can be used to determine which parameter has the greatest influence on the pass rate of the wire winding process.
Verification of the Functional Antioxidant Activity and Antimelanogenic Properties of Extracts of Poria cocos Mycelium Fermented with Freeze-Dried Plum Powder
Authors: Kang Kyung-Yun , Hwang Yun-Ho , Lee Sung-Ju , Jang Ho-Yeol , Hong Seong-Gyeol , Mun Seul-Ki , Kim Su-Jin , Kim Jong-Jin , Park Kuyng-Wuk , Seo Kyoung-Sun , Ban Seung-Eon , Jin Seong-Woo , Kim Hyuck-Joo , Yee Sung-Tae
Published: June 2019

Here we examine the effects of extracts of Poria cocos mycelium fermented with freeze-dried plum powder (PPE) on the α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-stimulated melanogenesis in cultured murine B16 melanoma cells (B16 cells), relative to the effects of Prunus extract. We found that an extract of Prunus fermentation showed significant inhibition of melanogenesis and tyrosinase activity with no effect on cell proliferation and was more active compared to Prunus extract alone. Furthermore, we confirmed that medium containing 3% Prunus was the optimal culture substrate for fermentation with Poria cocos. These results provide evidence that Prunus fermentation extract affects skin whiting in murine B16 melanoma cells (B16 cells). Prunus contains rutin, oxalic acid, succinic acid, and fumaric acid, which help in digestion and fatigue recovery. The rutin of Prunus mume is reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Also, Prunus extract has a tyrosinase inhibitory activity for skin whiting through its antioxidant activity. Therefore, we believe the Prunus extract for Poria cocos fermentation can be provided as a potential mediator to induce skin whiting.
Anticoagulation Use prior to Common Dental Procedures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chahine Johnny , Khoudary Marwan N. , Nasr Samer
Published: June 2019

Currently, the number of patients on oral anticoagulation is increasing. There is a paucity of data regarding maintaining oral anticoagulation (especially novel oral anticoagulants) around the time of specific dental procedures. A dentist has three options: either to stop anticoagulation, to continue it, or to bridge with heparin. A systematic review of 10 clinical trials was conducted to address this issue. It was found that continuing anticoagulation during dental procedures did not increase the risk of bleeding in most trials. Although none of the studies reported a thromboembolic event after interruption of anticoagulation, the follow-up periods were short and inconsistent, and the heightened thromboembolic risk when stopping anticoagulation is well known in the literature. Heparin bridging was associated with an increased bleeding incidence. We recommend maintaining oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists and novel oral anticoagulants for the vast majority of dental procedures along with the use of local hemostatic agents.
Multiple Myeloma in a Patient with ANKRD26-Related Thrombocytopenia Successfully Treated with Combination Therapy and Autologous Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Husnain Muhammad , Wang Trent , Valdes Maikel , Hoffman James , Lekakis Lazaros
Published: June 2019

Ankyrin repeat domain-containing protein 26- (ANKRD26-) related thrombocytopenia is a rare, autosomal dominant condition caused by ANKRD26 gene mutation. ANKRD26-related thrombocytopenia is characterized by moderate thrombocytopenia with minimal bleeding, normal platelet size, and dysmegakaryopoiesis on bone marrow evaluation. ANKRD26 mutation has been previously associated with myeloid malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and chronic myeloid leukemia. We report the first case of multiple myeloma in a patient with ANKRD26 related thrombocytopenia. The patient was successfully treated with contemporary combination therapy followed by melphalan-conditioned autologous stem cell transplant for his multiple myeloma despite preexisting thrombocytopenia.
Suppression of Nonlinear XPM Phenomenon by Selection of Appropriate Transmit Power Levels in the DWDM System
Authors: Ivaniga Tomáš , Ivaniga Petr
Published: June 2019

In the 21st century, it is not possible to implement fully optical communication systems without software tools to test the system for all unwanted phenomena occurring during real-time operation. With ever-increasing transmission rate and low latency, nonlinear phenomena are associated with higher power levels and smaller spacing between channels began to appear in OFs (optical fibers). This paper aims to implement a four-channel DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplex) system on which the nonlinear XPM (cross-phase modulation) phenomenon will be investigated. At the output of the system, we will eliminate the phenomenon (partially suppressed) by the appropriate choice of transmitting power levels (power levels operating at 193,025 THz to 193,175 THz) when the OF is dispersed. In optical transfer data systems a system is functioning if the measured BER parameter is not bigger than 10−12.
Difference Analysis of Organic Matter Enrichment Mechanisms in Upper Ordovician-Lower Silurian Shale from the Yangtze Region of Southern China and Its Geological Significance in Shale Gas Exploration
Authors: Wen Ming , Jiang Zhenxue , Zhang Kun , Song Yan , Jiang Shu , Jia Chengzao , Liu Weiwei , Huang Yizhou , Liu Tianlin , Xie Xuelian , Sun Yue , Fan Shichao , Cao Xiangni , Zhu Lin , Zhou Chuanxun
Published: June 2019

The upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale has always been the main target of marine shale gas exploration in southern China. However, the shale gas content varies greatly across different regions. The organic matter content is one of the most important factors in determining gas content; therefore, determining the enrichment mechanisms of organic matter is an important problem that needs to be solved urgently. In this paper, upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale samples from the X-1 and Y-1 wells that are located in the southern Sichuan area of the upper Yangtze region and the northwestern Jiangxi area of the lower Yangtze region, respectively, are selected for analysis. Based on the core sample description, well logging data analysis, mineral and elemental composition analysis, silicon isotope analysis, and TOC (total organic carbon) content analysis, the upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale is studied to quantitatively calculate its content of excess silicon. Subsequently, the results of elemental analysis and silicon isotope analysis are used to determine the origin of excess silicon. Finally, we used U/Th to determine the characteristics of the redox environment and the relationship between excess barium and TOC content to judge paleoproductivity and further studied the mechanism underlying sedimentary organic matter enrichment in the study area. The results show that the excess silicon from the upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale in the upper Yangtze area is derived from biogenesis. The sedimentary water body is divided into an oxygen-rich upper water layer that has higher paleoproductivity and a strongly reducing lower water that is conducive to the preservation of sedimentary organic matter. Thus, for the upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale in the upper Yangtze region, exploration should be conducted in the center of the blocks with high TOC contents and strongly reducing water body. However, the excess silicon in the upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale of the lower Yangtze area originates from hydrothermal activity that can enhance the reducibility of the bottom water and carry nutrients from the crust to improve paleoproductivity and enrich sedimentary organic matter. Therefore, for the upper Ordovician-lower Silurian shale in the lower Yangtze region, exploration should be conducted in the blocks near the junction of the two plates where hydrothermal activity was active.
Cumulative Incidence of Revision for a Balanced Knee System at a Mean 8-Year Follow-Up: A Retrospective Review of 500 Consecutive Total Knee Arthroplasties
Authors: Bourne Michael H. , Miller Tony L. , Mariani E. Marc
Published: June 2019

Purpose. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate mid-term survival of a Balanced Knee System in the first 500 total knee arthroplasty (TKA) cases using a fully cemented, posterior stabilized TKA at a high-volume private practice. Patients and Methods. In this IRB approved retrospective cohort study, data were extracted from a surgical registry at a high-volume orthopaedic practice for the first 500 total knee arthroplasty (TKA) cases performed using the Balanced Knee® System (BKS, Ortho Development®, Draper, Utah, USA). Procedures were performed between June 2000 and September 2003 by one of two orthopaedic surgeons. Follow-up was performed at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. 48 patients (9.6%) were considered lost to follow-up. A competing risk analysis was performed to evaluate the cumulative incidence of revision while accounting for the competing risk of death. In the model, failure was defined as revision of any BKS component. Those who failed prior to two years remained in the analysis. Results. The mean age of the population was 69 years (range: 40–94) and 73% were female. The cumulative incidence of revision of any component was approximately 1% at a mean 8-year follow-up (range: 0.11–14.1 years) when accounting for the competing risk of death. When considering all those lost to follow-up as failures, the cumulative incidence of failure at 8 years was approximately 10%. Conclusion. Based on the results of the current study, a posterior stabilized primary TKA, implanted using a flexion and extension gap balancing technique, had excellent survivorship and outcomes at a mean 8-year follow-up.
Petrophysical Properties and Microstructural Analysis of Faulted Heterolithic Packages: A Case Study from Miocene Turbidite Successions, Italy
Authors: Riegel Hannah , Zambrano Miller , Balsamo Fabrizio , Mattioni Luca , Tondi Emanuele
Published: June 2019

Geofluid reservoirs located in heterolithic successions (e.g., turbidites) can be affected by vertical and lateral compartmentalization due to interbedded fine-grained facies (i.e., shale, siltstones) and the presence of faults, respectively. A fault can behave as a conduit or barrier to fluid flow depending on its architecture and the individual hydraulic behavior of its components (i.e., fault core, damage zone). The fault core, normally composed by fault rock or smeared clay material, commonly acts as a flow inhibitor across the fault. Fault-related fractures (macro- and microscopic) in the damage zone generally increase the permeability parallel to the fault, except when they are cemented or filled with gouge material. Although macrofractures (which define the fracture porosity) dominate fluid flow, the matrix porosity (including microfractures) begins to have a more important role in fluid flow as the aperture of macrofractures is occluded, particularly at greater depth. This study investigates the variation in matrix permeability in fault zones hosted in heterolithic successions due to fault architecture and stratigraphy of host rock (i.e., sand-rich turbidites). Two key areas of well-exposed, faulted Miocene turbidites located in central and southern Italy were selected. For this study, six separate fault zones of varying offset were chosen. Each impacts heterolithic successions that formed under similar tectonic conditions and burial depths. Across the selected fault zones, an extensive petrophysical analysis was done in the field and laboratory, through air permeameter measurements, thin section, and synchrotron analysis in both host rock, damage zone, and fault core. Results suggest that the amount and distribution of clay layers in a heterolithic sequence affects fluid flow across the fault, regardless of fault offset.
Short Data‐Based Output‐Only Identification for Time‐Varying Systems with Fast Dynamic Evolution
Authors: Ma Zhi-Sai , Ding Qian
Published: June 2019

Many engineering systems change appreciably over a relatively short time interval due to their fast evolution in the dynamics. Time‐varying (TV) system’s ambient excitation is usually difficult to measure under operating conditions, and its dynamics have to be determined without measuring the excitation. Therefore, short data‐based output‐only identification for TV systems with fast dynamic evolution is considered in this paper. Deterministic parameter evolution methods are known to track fast dynamic evolution by postulating TV model parameters as deterministic functions of time and selecting proper functional subspaces. However, these methods require a significant number of parameters to represent complicated time‐dependencies and dynamics characterized by larger numbers of degrees‐of‐freedom. In such cases, the ordinary least squares estimation may lead to less accurate or even unreliable estimates. A ridge regression‐based deterministic parameter evolution method is proposed to overcome ill‐posed problems via regularization and subsequently assessed through numerical and experimental validation. Comparative results confirm the advantages of the proposed method in terms of achievable natural frequency and power spectral density tracking, accuracy, and resolution of TV systems with fast dynamic evolution, when the response data length is relatively short.
The Use of Antifibrotic Recombinant nAG Protein in a Rat Liver Fibrosis Model
Authors: Arafah Maha M. , Al-Qattan Mohammad M. , Abdulmaged-Ahmed Durria A. , Al-Nafesah Ghada A. , Jadu Nessrin Y. , Bagayawa Reginald S. , Shier Medhat K. , Marzouk Amir , Almalki Hend S.
Published: June 2019

Objectives. The “nAG” protein is the key protein mediating the regeneration of amputated limbs in salamanders. The senior author (MMA) developed the original hypothesis that since “nAG” is a “regenerative” protein, it must be also an “antifibrotic’ protein. The antifibrotic properties were later confirmed in a rabbit skin hypertrophic scar model as well as in a rat spinal cord injury model. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential therapeutic properties of the nAG protein in a rat liver fibrosis model. Methodology. Liver fibrosis was induced using intraperitoneal injections of carbon tetrachloride (CCL4). A total of 45 rats were divided equally into 3 groups: Group I (the control group) received normal saline injections for 8 weeks, Group II received CCL4 for 8 weeks, and Group III received CCL4 and nAG for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the serum levels of 6 proteins (hyaluronic acid, PDGF-AB, TIMP-1, laminin, procollagen III N-terminal peptide, and collagen IV-alpha 1 chain) were measured. Liver biopsies were also taken and the stages of live fibrosis were assessed histologically. Results. The CCL4 treatment resulted in a significant increase in the serum levels of all 6 measured proteins. The nAG treatment significantly reduced these high levels. The degree of liver fibrosis was also significantly reduced in the CCL4/nAG group compared to the CCL4 group. Conclusions. nAG treatment was able to significantly reduce the serum levels of several protein markers of liver fibrosis and also significantly reduced the histological degree of liver fibrosis.
Perrault Syndrome Diagnosis in a Patient Presenting to Her Primary Care Provider with Secondary Amenorrhea
Authors: Roberts Leah May , Carnivale Bruce
Published: June 2019

Perrault syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by sensorineural hearing loss and female gonadic eukaryotic dysgenesis. Here, we report the case of a 20-year-old female that presented to her internal medicine physician after suffering from secondary amenorrhea. After multiple negative pregnancy tests done with primary care physicians, a further evaluation by an internal medicine specialist showed an elevated FSH and LH as well as a small uterus and streak ovaries on transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound. She was referred to the OB-GYN service, gonadal dysgenesis was diagnosed, and proper treatment was initiated. We intend to highlight this presentation of ovarian dysfunction and provide guidance for the proper diagnosis and management of the said disorder.
Cardiac Rehabilitation Patients’ Accounts of Their Emotional Distress and Psychological Needs: A Qualitative Study
Authors: McPhillips Rebecca , Salmon Peter , Wells Adrian , Fisher Peter
Published: June 2019

Background

Psychological distress is prevalent among patients with cardiovascular disease and is linked to increased risk of future cardiac events. Cardiac rehabilitation (
CR
) is widely recommended for treating psychological distress but has been of limited benefit. This study aims to understand how distressed cardiac patients describe their emotional needs and the response of
CR
.

Methods and Results

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 46 patients who screened positively for anxiety and/or depression. Semi‐structured interviews were held, and data were analyzed using a constant comparative approach. Patients described low mood and diverse concerns, including threat of another cardiac event, restrictions on their lives, and problems unrelated to their health. Patients described worrying constantly about these concerns, worrying about their worry, and feeling that worry was uncontrollable and harmful. Patients wanted to “get back to normal” but lacked any sense of how to achieve this and were reluctant to discuss their worries with
CR
staff. They hoped to recover over time, meanwhile seeking reassurance that they were responding “normally.” Patients were mostly dismissive of psychological techniques used in
CR
.

Conclusions

These findings expose a conundrum. Distressed
CR
patients have diverse worries but do not generally want to discuss them, so they invest hopes for feeling better in time passing and reassurance. An intervention acceptable to
CR
patients would allow them to address diverse worries but without having to share the content of worries, would have “face validity,” and would address patients’ worry about worry. Metacognitive therapy is an intervention that might be suitable.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
02420431.
Landscape of Cardiovascular Device Registries in the United States
Authors: Rajan Prashant V. , Holtzman Jessica N. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Yeh Robert W. , Kramer Daniel B.
Published: June 2019

Background

Regulators increasingly rely on registries for decision making related to high‐risk medical devices in the United States. However, the limited uniform standards for registries may create substantial variability in registry implementation and utility to regulators. We surveyed the current landscape of
US
cardiovascular device registries and chart the extent of inconsistency in goals, administration, enrollment procedures, and approach to data access.

Methods and Results

A systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines identified studies (1995–2017) referencing cardiovascular device registries with a
US
‐based institution. Registries were then evaluated by reviewing associated articles and websites. Extracted data included device type, primary scientific aim(s), funding, stewardship (eg, administration of registry procedures), enrollment procedures, informed consent process, and mechanisms to access data for research. The 138 cardiovascular device registries in the cohort covered devices addressing interventional cardiology (65.9%), arrhythmias (15.2%), heart failure (10.1%), and valvular disease (10.1%). While the majority (55.8%) were industry‐funded, stewardship was predominantly overseen by academic centers (74.0%). Most registry participation was voluntary (77.5%), but a substantial minority (19.7%) were required as a condition of device implantation. Informed consent requirements varied widely, with written consent required in only 55.1% of registries. Registry data were primarily accessible only to stewards (84.1%), with 13.8% providing pathways for external applications.

Conclusions

The majority of cardiovascular device registries were funded privately under the auspices of academic institutions, which set the rules for data access. The substantial variation between cardiovascular device registries suggests a role for regulators to further strengthen guidelines to improve quality, consistency, and ethical standards.
The Cushion Performance of Mycelium-Cornstraw Biofoams
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng , He Peipei , Lin Yichen , Song Haixia , Dong Hao , Zhu Xuejun , Zhang Jiejing
Published: June 2019

Biofoams are considered to be one of the best alternatives to polymer foam. In many biofoams, mycelium-based biofoams are favored in the recent years for its zero pollution and renewability during the forming and after treatment process. Mycelium-wood biofoams, mycelium-cottonseed shell
biofoams have been proved to have good mechanical or sound absorption properties. While, whether corn straw, as the by-product of the largest yield of agricultural products, is suitable to prepare mycelium-based biofoam has not been studied yet. Here we used Pleurotus ostreatus mycelium
bonding corn straw to prepare mycelium-cornstraw biofoams, and mechanical properties as well as bonding mechanism of the mycelium-cornstraw biofoams were studied. It was discovered that inoculum quantity was an important factor on the performance of mycelium-cornstraw biofoams, and inoculum
quantity of 1.8% was considered as the optimal inoculum quantity. At this inoculum quantity, when relative deformation was 10%, the compressive strength of mycelium-cornstraw biofoam was about twice that of mycelium-broadleaf sawdust biofoams reported, but the time spent on material preparation
is only about their 1/3.
Sequential Extraction of Lignin from Sugarcane Bagasse: Characterization and Application in the Pb(II) Adsorption
Authors: Liu Ni , Wang Shuangfei , Zhu Hongxiang , Liu Xinliang
Published: June 2019

Lignin was extracted from bagasse by sequential extraction method. The crude lignin was divided into three fractions by molecular weight and chemical functionality (Lignin fractions L1 and L2 were recovered with diethyl ether and methanol solubility respectively, with the L3 part remaining),
and the properties of each were analyzed before being applied to Pb(II) adsorption. The results indicated that the L2 fraction has the largest molecular weight due to self-condensation. The weight of the aliphatic hydroxyl group of L2 is 4.63 times of L1 and 1.65 times of crude lignin. Scanning
electron microscopy (SEM) images and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis show that the surface of L2 and L3 are porous with surface areas of 2.8304 m2/g and 10.7530 m2/g, respectively. The characteristics of structure and morphology for the L2 and L3 fractions display
better adsorption property than crude lignin and L1 fractions, with adsorption capacities of approximately 6.46 mg/g and 7.56 mg/g. This research confirmed that each lignin fraction possessed different chemical and physical characteristics, and the L2 fraction has good solubility and adsorption
properties, which provide the basis for lignin modification applied to lead Pb(II) adsorption.
Optimizing Methane Production from Anaerobic Batch Co-Digestion of Apple Pomace and Vegetable Waste
Authors: Mu Hui , Zhao Chunhui , Zhao Yuxiao , Hua Dongliang , Li Yan , Zhang Xiaodong , Cao Yujin
Published: June 2019

Co-digestion of apple pomace (AP) and vegetable waste (VW) was a feasible proposal to simultaneously eliminate their potential pollution to the environment and produce alternative biogas energy, whereas, it can be easily interrupted by rapid acidogenesis and inhibition of methanogen.
Additionally, the methane yield could not be maximization due to the recalcitrant cellulose substance of AP. The inoculum regulation was employed for overcoming the acidogenesis problem and enhancing methane yield when conducting high-solids (TS of 10%) co-digestion of AP and VW under mesophilic
condition. The chosen inoculum was the special acclimated anaerobic granular sludge (AGS) from the upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor treating VW acidification liquid. The AGS inoculum was preferable to the conventional inoculum in view of the multitudinous and abundant methanogens. Under
the optimum inoculation conditions, the anaerobic batch co-digestion of AP and VW at different mixing TS ratios of 5:0, 4:1, 3:2, 2:3, 1:4 and 0:5 were conducted to obtain a suitable substrate mixing ratio. Results showed that the optimal AP/VW ratio was 2:3, which gave the highest methane
yield of 336 mL/g-VS. The excellent performance of the co-digestion was attributed to the balanced C/N, reduced accumulation of volatile fatty acids (VFAs), stable pH value, as well as the high quality and quantity of methanogens included in the inoculum.
Adaptive Surface Mesh Reconstruction for Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Chen Zhong , Hou Zhiwei , Xia Mujian , Xing Yuegang
Published: June 2019

In medical applications, it is important to reconstruct surface meshes from Computed Tomography (CT) images. Surface mesh reconstruction of biological tissues actually suffers from staircase artifacts, due to anisotropic CT data. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an adaptive
surface mesh reconstruction method. We convert the contour pixels of medical image to contour points and exploit the adaptive spherical cover to produce an approximating surface based on the contour points. Due to the reconstruction quality depending on the accurate normal estimation, computing
the normal vectors from the negative gradient based on 3D binary volume data instead of classical principal component analysis (PCA), and then covering contour points by adaptive spheres, linking the auxiliary points in the spheres for reconstructing adaptive triangular meshes. The presented
method has been used in CT images of the first cervical vertebrae (C1), scapula, as well as the third lumbar vertebrae (L3) and the results are analyzed regarding their smoothness, accuracy and mesh quality. The results show that our method can reconstruct smooth, accurate and high-quality
adaptive surface meshes.
Edge Detection of Images Using Improved Fuzzy C-Means and Artificial Neural Network Technique
Authors: Dhivya R. , Prakash R.
Published: June 2019

Edge detection (ED) is an embryonic development, which is essential for any intricate image processing and recognition undertaking. This paper proposed another system to upgrade the method and Artificial neural network for speaking to vulnerability in the image slopes and collection.
The vulnerability in the image inclination distinguishes the genuine edges which might be overlooked by other systems. This e is valuable in the field of restorative imaging applications, for example, MRI division, cerebrum tumor, filtering and so on. Attractive reaction imaging connected
in restorative science to analyze tumors in body parts by creating great images of within the human body, by utilizing different edge identifiers. There exist many edge finders yet at the same time, requirement for inquire about is felt improve their execution. And furthermore, this paper
distinguishes the edges in the broken bones, edge ID, satellite edge detection ID. An exceptionally basic issue looked by many edge finders is the decision of limit esteems. This paper presents fuzzy and ANN based edge detection utilizing Improved Fuzzy C-means clustering (FCM) strategy.
Enhanced FCM approach is utilized in producing different gatherings which are then contribution to the Mamdani fuzzy surmising framework. In this, we are utilizing versatile middle separating for evacuating commotion; this strategy adequately expels the clamor and gives better outcomes. This
entire procedure results in the age of the limit parameters which is then encouraged to the established sobel edge locator which helps in improving its edge detection capacity utilizing the fuzzy logic. This entire setup is connected to Images. The recovered outcomes express to that fuzzy
and ANN based Improved Fuzzy C-means clustering enhances the introduction of customary sobel edge identifier in associate with retentive information around the tumors of the mind.
Cup and Disc Ratio and Inferior, Superior, Temporal and Nasal Calculation for Glaucoma Identification
Authors: Manju K. , Sabeenian R. S.
Published: June 2019

Glaucoma is the deadliest eye disease that steals the vision. Glaucoma is recorded as the second reason for vision loss. When identified it would have created 25% damage to the tissues and 50% vision loss. This has been so successful in stealing the vision because early detection of
this eye disease is very difficult. This has catered the researchers. Early detection of glaucoma has always been challenging. In this paper, glaucoma is identified by checking two conditions namely Cup and Disc Ratio (CDR) and ISTN (Inferior, Superior, Temporal and Nasal) criterion. Both
conditions must be satisfied to be glaucomatous. Vertical cup and disc diameter is obtained by Otsu threshold segmenting method. The cup to disc ratio is obtained by dividing the vertical disc to vertical cup diameter. ISTN is the criterion that ophthalmologist see to confirm glaucoma. The
inferior region should have the greater thickness compared to other regions. A person is named a suspect of glaucoma if the CDR is above 0.6 and inferior region thickness is less than 8-pixel distance. Neural retinal rim thickness can also be taken for further validation.
Repertoires of Remembering: A Conceptual Approach for Studying Memory Practices in the Digital Ecosystem
Authors: Burkey Brant
Published: June 2019

Although the preponderance of collective memory research focuses on particular cultural repository sites, memorials, traumatic events, media channels, texts, or commemorative rituals as objects of study, this article fills a gap in literature by arguing that it is time to refresh established media-memory studies to now also consider how multimodal practices promise insight into the process of shared remembering in the new media ecology. The specific focus here is to propose a conceptual approach for how collective remembering can be observed, experienced, and researched in the digital ecosystem. In addition to a survey of collective memory and media memory studies, this article identifies specific ways to examine this issue by introducing the concepts of multimodal memory practices and platformed communities of memory, and by arguing that metadata analysis of digital practices should be considered a contemporary form of studying collective memory.
Differential modulatory effects of Propofol and Sevoflurane anesthesia on blood monocyte HLA-DR and CD163 expression during and after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass: a preliminary randomized flow cytometry study
Authors: Sbrana Silverio , Nunziata Anna , Storti Simona , Haxhiademi Dorela , Mazzone Annamaria , Leone Maria , Solinas Marco , Del Sarto Paolo
Published: June 2019

Introduction:

The increase of the anti-inflammatory CD163highHLA-DRlow blood monocyte subset is one of the mechanisms dampening inflammation during cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. We evaluated the effect of two different anesthetic protocols, intravenous Propofol infusion or Sevoflurane-gas administration, on the perioperative frequency of this subset.

Methods:

Blood from patients (Propofol = 11, Sevoflurane = 13) undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve surgery was drawn preoperatively (T1), before declamping (T2), at 6 (T3), 24 (T4), 48 (T5), and 72 hours (T6) after declamping. C-reactive protein, haptoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase were measured. A hemolytic index, as C-reactive protein/haptoglobin ratio, was introduced. Monocyte expression of HLA-DR, CD163, and the CD163highHLA-DRlow subset fraction was quantified by flow cytometry. Baseline-referred variations of plasmatic and cellular data at T2 were normalized for clamping times. Subsequent time-point variations were normalized for the final cardiopulmonary bypass times.

Results:

Variations of hemolytic index and lactate dehydrogenase were higher with Propofol at T3 (p = 0.004 and p = 0.02, respectively) when compared with Sevoflurane. At T2, the down-modulation of CD163 was higher with Propofol (p = 0.005). Starting from T3, the up-regulatory trend of CD163 was basically higher with Propofol, although not significantly. Propofol induced higher increments of HLA-DR low fractions, at T2 (p = 0.04) and, to a lesser extent, at T4 (p = 0.06). Starting from T3, the CD163highHLA-DRlow subset variations were higher with Propofol, especially at T4 and T6.

Conclusion:

Propofol seems to induce a higher postoperative fraction of the CD163highHLA-DRlow monocyte subset. This could represent either a compensatory mechanism dampening the higher inflammatory condition observed with Propofol at T2 or a consequence of a higher postoperative Propofol-induced hemolysis.
Reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted MR imaging for assessing the local extent of uterine cervical cancer
Authors: Takeuchi Mayumi , Matsuzaki Kenji , Bando Yoshimi , Harada Masafumi
Published: June 2019

Background

Recently, the evaluation of the tumor size and local extension of early-stage uterine cervical cancer on magnetic resonance imaging is important for the accurate clinical staging and to determine the indication of less extensive surgery such as fertility sparing radical trachelectomy.

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic ability of reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging with those of three-dimensional (3D) contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging and T2-weighted imaging for assessing the tumor margin delineation and local extent of uterine cervical cancer.

Material and Methods

3T magnetic resonance images, including T2-weighted imaging, reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging, and 3D contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging, in 27 women with surgically proven cervical cancer (19 FIGO stage IB1, 3 IB2, and 5 IIA1) were retrospectively evaluated. Tumor margins and local tumor extent, including the presence of invasion to parametrium and vagina were evaluated on both sagittal and oblique axial (short axis) images; the results were compared with histologically confirmed tumor extension.

Results

Reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging diagnosed the tumor margins, which was more accurate than T2-weighted imaging ( P<0.001) and slightly better than 3D contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging. Reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging could define the tumor margins well even in small lesions (≤ 20 mm). Histological examination revealed parametrial invasion in two cases (clinically under-staged) and vaginal invasion in four cases. Reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging could demonstrate local extension of all lesions, which was more accurate than clinical examination and T2-weighted imaging.

Conclusion

Addition of reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging may improve the staging accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging for cervical cancer in assessing the local tumor extent.
Radiation exposure of radiologists during different types of CT-guided interventions: an evaluation using dosimeters placed above and under lead protection
Authors: Elsholtz Fabian Henry Jürgen , Vahldiek Janis Lucas , Wyschkon Sebastian , Bucourt Maximilian De , Koletzko Gerd , Hamm Bernd , Niehues Stefan Markus
Published: June 2019

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is widely used not only for diagnostic purposes but also for image guidance during different types of interventions. Therefore, radiation exposure of both patients and interventional radiologists remains a much-discussed topic.

Purpose

To quantify radiation exposure of interventional radiologists during multiple CT-guided interventions using dosimeters placed under and outside standard protective lead clothing.

Material and Methods

A total of 113 consecutive interventions covering three different types of procedures (grouped as periradicular infiltration therapy, biopsies, and drain placement) and performed using routine clinical protocols were prospectively analyzed. The interventions were performed by two radiologists of different experience levels with identically placed dosimeters outside and underneath their protective clothing. Personal doses (right hand, eye lens, thyroid gland, thorax, gonads) were cumulatively measured for each type of intervention and separately for the two radiologists.

Results

Personal dose was below the detection limit of the dosimeters during periradicular infiltration therapy. In the biopsy and drain placement groups, the highest dose was found for the right hand (maximum cumulative dose = 1.84 ± 1.30 mSv in 19 consecutive drain placements). Under the protective gear, exposure was only observed for drain placements performed by the less experienced radiologist (maximum = 0.05 ± 0.04 mSv for the eye lens).

Conclusion

Personal doses measured here were far below annual thresholds published by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Therefore, performing multiple CT-guided interventions appears to be safe for interventional radiologists in terms of radiation exposure.
Cities reshaped by Airbnb: A case study in New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles
Authors: Jiao Junfeng , Bai Shunhua
Published: June 2019

In the last 10 years, Airbnb has rapidly grown from a simple, online bed and breakfast operation to a leading global hospitality service provider. Scholars have been using different spatial analysis tools to study its potential impacts on cities. To better understand Airbnb’s impact this featured graphic applied a cartogram processing tool to reshape census tracts based on Airbnb listing intensity in three major US cities (New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles). Results showed that different cities have different patterns of Airbnb listings. Census tracts in New York City became completely unrecognizable after the analysis, which indicted a highly skewed Airbnb distribution in the city. Compared with New York City, we saw less and least deformation in Chicago and Los Angeles, respectively, where Airbnb was more evenly distributed. The results showed that Airbnb listings were very evenly distributed in the large US cities. Airbnb would impose completely different impacts on different neighborhoods based on their locations.
Treatment patterns and characteristics of patients with migraine in Japan: A retrospective analysis of health insurance claims data
Authors: Meyers Juliana L , Davis Keith L , Lenz Robert A , Sakai Fumihiko , Xue Fei
Published: June 2019

Objective

To describe treatment patterns of migraine patients in the Japan Medical Data Center (JMDC) database.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with ≥1 inpatient or ≥2 outpatient migraine diagnoses, ≥1 outpatient diagnosis and ≥1 migraine-specific acute treatment (triptan or ergotamine), or ≥2 migraine-specific acute treatments from 1 May 2011 to 30 April 2014 were identified. Patients were required to be enrolled in a health plan for ≥1 year before and after the index date. The first migraine diagnosis or acute treatment defined the index date. Patients were stratified by the migraine treatments observed after the index date (i.e. migraine-specific acute treatment only [AT], prophylactic with or without migraine-specific acute treatment [PT], or no treatment [NT]) and described regarding the first migraine treatment regimen and subsequent treatment patterns during up to 1 year of follow-up.

Results

A total of 16,443 patients met the eligibility criteria (9873 AT, 3022 PT, and 3548 NT). AT patients had mean (SD) 10.3 (20.5) acute treatment days during 1-year follow-up, and 81.9% received triptans. When assessing the first migraine treatment regimen during follow-up in PT patients, 29.2% received prophylactic treatment only and 51.7% received both acute and prophylactic treatment. Calcium-channel blockers with or without concomitant triptans (34.4%) were the most common first regimen. Approximately 62.2% discontinued initial prophylactic treatment after an average of 61.2 days (SD = 65.3) of persistent treatment. Among discontinuers, 15.2% reinitiated original treatment and 7.0% switched treatment post-discontinuation within a year, while the remaining patients did not receive prophylactic therapy following discontinuation.

Conclusions

Among Japanese migraine patients, prophylactic use was low and associated with a high rate of discontinuation following a brief treatment period. Many patients reinitiated or switched treatment following discontinuation, while a significant proportion of patients remained discontinued from prophylactic therapy, suggesting a high unmet need.
A methodology for robust multi-train trajectory planning under dwell-time and control-point uncertainty
Authors: Goodwin Jon CJ , Fletcher David I , Harrison Robert F
Published: June 2019

Methods to optimise train movements to maintain time and avoid excessive energy consumption are becoming widely applied, but outcomes remain sensitive to uncertainties within the system. In this paper, variability in station dwell-times and the points of application of planned train control (traction, coasting or braking) are taken as examples of typical rail system uncertainties and are used to demonstrate an approach to multi-train trajectory optimisation that is resilient to them. Trade-offs are explored between highly optimised train trajectories that are vulnerable to perturbation and less optimal trajectories that are robust to typical disturbances. Beyond dwell and control variations the method has application for many other common rail network uncertainties, e.g. differences in the traction characteristics of nominally identical trains or variable train loading. Relative to optimisation without consideration of uncertainty, the approach is shown to find control strategies of substantially increased robustness for the test cases examined and offers a more principled way to plan a network than the ad hoc use of recovery time to mitigate everyday operational disturbances.
A study on the frontal oblique collision-induced derailment mechanism in subway vehicles
Authors: Yao Shuguang , Zhu Huifen , Liu Mingyang , Li Zhixiang , Xu Ping , Che Quanwei
Published: June 2019

Oblique collisions can more easily lead to train derailment and cause heavy casualties. In this paper, a fine finite-element model of a subway head vehicle–rigid wall frontal oblique collision was established and validated by a single wheelset derailment simulation. Furthermore, the derailment mechanisms and patterns under an oblique impact angle of 6.34°–40° and at an impact speed of 8–40 km/h were studied via simulation. The results indicated that three types of derailment, such as roll-over derailment, climb/roll-over derailment and wheel-lift derailment, have occurred. When the impact speed was set to 25 km/h, a climb/roll-over derailment occurred under the impact angle of greater than 40°; a roll-over derailment occurred under the impact angle of 20°–40°; and the vehicle would not derail when the impact angle was less than 15°. When the impact angle was 6.34°, the vehicle was in danger of wheel-lift derailment with the largest wheel vertical displacement of 26.83 mm and lateral displacement of 12.52 mm under the impact speed of 40 km/h, but it was safe with the largest displacement of no more than 18 mm and lateral displacement of 8.39 mm if the impact speed was less than 40 km/h. It is shown that the derailment patterns are more sensitive to the impact angle. Therefore, both the lateral and vertical displacements should be considered when studying the oblique collision-induced derailment mechanisms and patterns.
Mapping the Field of Research on Entrepreneurial Organizations (1937–2016): A Bibliometric Analysis and Research Agenda
Authors: Lampe Jan , Kraft Priscilla Sarai , Bausch Andreas
Published: June 2019

Research on entrepreneurial organizations has grown rapidly over recent decades. However, prior research has developed different ways to conceptualize entrepreneurial organizations, resulting in an ongoing discussion and a highly complex body of research, thus hindering the evolution of the literature. To improve our understanding of the structure and content of the field, we provide a synthesis of these conceptualizations and how they are reflected in the literature through a bibliometric analysis. Our findings uncover research topics and theoretical foundations of the field and how certain conversations pursue them through different conceptualizations. Building on our results, we identify future research opportunities.
Modeling and linear analysis of sound generation mechanism in sonic soot blowers
Authors: Najafi A. , Asayesh M. , Siami A.
Published: June 2019

Sonic soot blowers (SSBs) are nondestructive tools to prevent ashes and particle build-up on the surfaces of boilers or other similar instruments. For higher performance, sonic soot cleaners should generate a high level-low frequency sound wave. In this article, the sound generation mechanism in these tools has been modeled. Firstly, the governing equations of the diaphragm and the horn and coupling between them are derived. By linearization, a parametric study is performed to find the optimum design points. Based on the eigenvalue analysis, it is shown that the sound generation in sonic soot cleaners is due to instability of the interaction between the diaphragm and the horn. Moreover, it is found that the sound wave frequency is approximately equal to the lowest fundamental frequency of the horn or diaphragm. Finally, the frequency content of an SSB voice is investigated.
ℋ∞ optimization of an integral force feedback controller
Authors: Zhao G. , Paknejad A. , Deraemaeker A. , Collette C.
Published: June 2019

This paper studies the performance of the classical integral force feedback (IFF) controller for suppressing the forced response of a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system. An ℋ∞ optimization criterion is used to derive the optimal feedback gain of the IFF controller contributed as a complement for the state of the art. This optimal gain is calculated in the closed-form based on a SDOF system which is then applied to a two degrees of freedom system to study its adaptability. It is found that the ℋ∞ optimal gain can be easily transposed into multi-degrees of freedom applications without introducing too many errors. An equivalent mechanical model is also developed to enable a straightforward interpretation of the physics behind the IFF controller.