bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Variability of Winds and HRRR–NCEP Model Error Statistics at Three Doppler-Lidar Sites in the Wind-Energy Generation Region of the Columbia River Basin
Authors: Pichugina Y. L. , Banta R. M. , Bonin T. , Brewer W. A. , Choukulkar A. , McCarty B. J. , Baidar S. , Draxl C. , Fernando H. J. S. , Kenyon J. , Krishnamurthy R. , Marquis M. , Olson J. , Sharp J. , Stoelinga M.
Published: June 2019

Annually and seasonally averaged wind profiles from three Doppler lidars were obtained from sites in the Columbia River basin of east-central Oregon and Washington, a major region of wind-energy production, for the Second Wind Forecast Improvement Project (WFIP2) experiment. The profile data are used to quantify the spatial variability of wind flows in this area of complex terrain, to assess the HRRR–NCEP model’s ability to capture spatial and temporal variability of wind profiles, and to evaluate model errors. Annually averaged measured wind speed differences over the 70-km extent of the lidar measurements reached 1 m s−1 within the wind-turbine rotor layer, and 2 m s−1 for 200–500 m AGL. Stronger wind speeds in the lowest 500 m occurred at sites higher in elevation, farther from the river, and farther west—closer to the Cascade Mountain barrier. Validating against the lidar data, the HRRR model underestimated strong wind speeds (>12 m s−1) and, consequently, their frequency of occurrence, especially at the two lowest-elevation sites, producing annual low biases in rotor-layer wind speed of 0.5 m s−1. The RMSE between measured and modeled winds at all sites was about 3 m s−1 and did not degrade significantly with forecast lead time. The nature of the model errors was different for different seasons. Moreover, although the three sites were located in the same basin terrain, the nature of the model errors was different at each site. Thus, if only one of the sites had been instrumented, different conclusions would have been drawn as to the major sources of model error, depending on where the measurements were made.
Balanced and Radiating Wave Responses to Diurnal Heating in Tropical Cyclone–Like Vortices Using a Linear Nonhydrostatic Model
Authors: Evans Rebecca C. , Nolan David S.
Published: June 2019

The diurnal cycle (DC) in the cirrus canopy of tropical cyclones (TCs) is a well-documented phenomenon. While early studies linked the DC in the area of the cirrus canopy to a DC in the strength of eyewall convection, later studies considered it a direct response to the DC of radiation in the cirrus canopy. In this study, an idealized linear model is used to examine the extent to which linear dynamics can capture the DC in TCs, in particular the transition between balanced and radiating responses to diurnal heating. The model heat forcing is physically motivated by the diabatic heating output from a realistic simulation, which illustrates the presence of a DC in moist convective heating and radiative heating in the eyewall, and a DC in radiative heating in the cirrus canopy. This study finds that the DCs of heating in the eyewall yield a response that is restricted to inside the RMW by the high inertial stability in the inner core. The DC of radiative heating in the cirrus canopy yields a response throughout the entire cyclone. Lower-frequency responses, of diurnal and semidiurnal frequency, are balanced throughout much of the cyclone. High-frequency waves with periods under 8 h, created at sunrise and sunset, can radiate outward and downward. These results indicate that diurnal responses are balanced in the majority of a TC and originate in the cirrus canopy, instead of the eyewall. The DC in cirrus canopy vertical motion also appears to originate in the cirrus canopy.
Statistical Learning Methods as a Basis for Skillful Seasonal Temperature Forecasts in Europe
Authors: Kämäräinen Matti , Uotila Petteri , Karpechko Alexey Yu. , Hyvärinen Otto , Lehtonen Ilari , Räisänen Jouni
Published: June 2019

A statistical learning approach to produce seasonal temperature forecasts in western Europe and Scandinavia was implemented and tested. The leading principal components (PCs) of sea surface temperature (SST) and the geopotential at the 150-hPa level (GPT) were derived from reanalysis datasets and used at different lags (from one to five seasons) as predictors. Random sampling of both the fitting years and the potential predictors together with the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression (LASSO) was used to create a large ensemble of statistical models. Applying the models to independent test years shows that the ensemble performs well over the target areas and that the ensemble mean is more accurate than the best individual ensemble member on average. Skillful results were especially found for summer and fall, with the anomaly correlation coefficient values ranging between 0.41 and 0.68 for these seasons. The correct simulation of decadal trends, using sufficiently long time series for fitting (70 years), and the use of lagged predictors increased the prediction skill. The decadal-scale variability of SST, most importantly the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO), and different PCs of GPT are the most important individual predictors among all predictors. Both SST and GPT bring equally much predictive power, although their importance is different in different seasons.
Analysis of Large-Scale Dynamics and Gravity Waves under Shedding of Inactive Flow Components
Authors: Gassmann Almut
Published: June 2019

The Ertel’s potential vorticity (EPV) budget equation does not see the contribution of an inactive EPV flux component ∇θ × ∇B because it drops out when taking the divergence. A part of the actual EPV flux can always be interpreted as such an inactive component and is thus likewise shed from the EPV budget equation. The deviation from this inactive EPV flux is called the active EPV flux and the associated wind is called the active wind. The horizontal active wind is comparable to the ageostrophic wind. The vertical active wind component is similar to the isentropic displacement vertical wind. In contrast to the actual wind, the vertical active wind does not vanish at the surface, because the inactive wind blows along isentropes, which may intersect the ground. Transformed governing equations are derived as functions of the active wind components. The terms on the right of the transformed equations can be scrutinized with respect to their effects on the evolution of the atmospheric state. An idealized baroclinic wave in a dry atmosphere is discussed with focus on the fronts and the generation or depletion of kinetic energy. Since the vertical inactive wind does not necessarily vanish at the surface, the arising vertical active wind is responsible for the cooling (raising of isentropes) and the warming (sinking of isentropes) in the different regions of a cyclone. The new method allows for a unique separation of gravity waves and vortical modes. This facilitates the analysis of gravity wave generation and propagation from jets and fronts.
An NWP Model Intercomparison of Surface Weather Parameters in the European Arctic during the Year of Polar Prediction Special Observing Period Northern Hemisphere 1
Authors: Køltzow Morten , Casati Barbara , Bazile Eric , Haiden Thomas , Valkonen Teresa
Published: June 2019

Increased human activity in the Arctic calls for accurate and reliable weather predictions. This study presents an intercomparison of operational and/or high-resolution models in an attempt to establish a baseline for present-day Arctic short-range forecast capabilities for near-surface weather (pressure, wind speed, temperature, precipitation, and total cloud cover) during winter. One global model [the high-resolution version of the ECMWF Integrated Forecasting System (IFS-HRES)], and three high-resolution, limited-area models [Applications of Research to Operations at Mesoscale (AROME)-Arctic, Canadian Arctic Prediction System (CAPS), and AROME with Météo-France setup (MF-AROME)] are evaluated. As part of the model intercomparison, several aspects of the impact of observation errors and representativeness on the verification are discussed. The results show how the forecasts differ in their spatial details and how forecast accuracy varies with region, parameter, lead time, weather, and forecast system, and they confirm many findings from mid- or lower latitudes. While some weaknesses are unique or more pronounced in some of the systems, several common model deficiencies are found, such as forecasting temperature during cloud-free, calm weather; a cold bias in windy conditions; the distinction between freezing and melting conditions; underestimation of solid precipitation; less skillful wind speed forecasts over land than over ocean; and difficulties with small-scale spatial variability. The added value of high-resolution limited area models is most pronounced for wind speed and temperature in regions with complex terrain and coastlines. However, forecast errors grow faster in the high-resolution models. This study also shows that observation errors and representativeness can account for a substantial part of the difference between forecast and observations in standard verification.
Real-time kinematical optimal trajectory planning for haptic feedback manipulators
Authors: Zhang Shiyu , Dai Shuling
Published: June 2019

To obtain real-time haptic interactions in virtual cockpit systems (VCSs), a real-time trajectory planning method based on kinematical optimization for haptic feedback manipulators (HFMs) is presented in this paper. Firstly, the control panel area is extracted in the workspace of the HFM, in which the interacting point is located. Then a feasible interacting configuration is calculated as the objective configuration of the trajectory encoded by a parametric representation. The trajectory planning problem is formulated as a non-linear optimization problem based on kinematics, which is solved in real-time by finding a good initial solution with machine learning methods. Simulations show that trajectories with a compromise between safety and rapidity can be calculated in real-time by this method, which provides a basis for haptic interaction in VCSs.
Effect of the finite size of generated rough surfaces on the percolation threshold
Authors: Yang Zhimeng , Ding Xiaoyu , Liu Jianhua , Zhang Feikai
Published: June 2019

Percolation threshold is a very important parameter to estimate the sealing performance. Thus, it is crucial to determine the correct value of the percolation threshold for contact sealing surfaces. In this paper, we applied a numerical generation method, in which the autocorrelation length can be easily controlled, to obtain different Gaussian isotropic rough surfaces. Then, the contact status between a rigid flat half-space and numerically generated rough surfaces were calculated using the conjugate gradient-fast Fourier transform method. Based on the contact status, the percolation threshold was obtained using a search method. The calculated results established that the percolation threshold of [Formula: see text] is determined for Gaussian isotropic contacting rough surfaces. To obtain an exact value of the percolation threshold, the finite size of the generated rough surfaces should be six times greater than the autocorrelation length, and the autocorrelation length should not be smaller than 20 times the sampling interval.
Assessment methodology for pressure-related aural discomfort in high-speed trains using airtightness experiments and mathematical models
Authors: Xie Pengpeng , Peng Yong , Hu Junjiao , Peng Anquan , Yi Shengen
Published: June 2019

This study aimed at establishing an evaluation methodology for aural discomfort induced by the interior pressure changes in high-speed trains running in tunnels. Experiments in pressure cabin, which can reveal the relationship between aural discomfort and pressure change, were discussed. Furthermore, a human middle ear model was used to simulate the vibration. The experimental conditions were considered as pressure loads, which were exerted on the tympanic membrane. Furthermore, the aural discomfort was hierarchically divided into four levels: ideal, good, bad, and worse. Four indicators, such as the tympanic membrane displacement and stress and the stapes footplate displacement and velocity, were used to establish the discomfort criteria. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the incidences of each level as well as to obtain the thresholds between levels. The outcomes have a p-value of less than 0.05; hence, the response results of the indicators are statistically significant. Additionally, the thresholds of the indicators were obtained and used to differentiate the aural discomfort levels. The intervals of the four indicators are (0,T1), (T1,Tc), (Tc,T3), and (T3,>T3) for the discomfort levels of ideal, good, bad, and worse, respectively. Moreover, the onset mechanism of aural sensations was revealed using the four indicators. It can be implied that large tympanic membrane and stapes footplate displacements tend to elicit ear complaints, such as fullness, otalgia, and vertigo, whereas the large stapes footplate velocity affects the onset of tinnitus and hearing loss.
Deep learning framework for controlling an active suspension system
Authors: Konoiko Aleksey , Kadhem Allan , Saiful Islam , Ghorbanian Navid , Zweiri Yahya , Sahinkaya M.Necip
Published: June 2019

In this paper, a feed-forward deep neural network (DNN) and automated search method for optimum network structure are developed to control an active suspension system (ASS). The network was trained through supervised learning using the backpropagation algorithm. The training data were generated from an optimal proportional–integral–derivative controller tuned based on a full state feedback optimal controller. The trained network was implemented in an ASS test rig for a quarter-car model and was initially tested in simulation under parameter uncertainties. Experimental results showed that the developed DNN controller outperforms the optimal controller under uncertainties in terms of reducing the sprung mass acceleration and actuator energy consumption, with a 4% and 14% reduction, respectively.
Economic Impact Assessment of Mega-Events in the United Kingdom and Brazil
Authors: Wan Shui Ki , Song Haiyan
Published: June 2019

Hosting mega-events is often perceived as a way to stimulate economic growth through tourism. However, the cost of infrastructure investments and promotion may outweigh the benefits generated by the mega-events. Measuring the impact of such events on a hosting country’s economy is not easy, especially as mega-events generally involve many sectors of a destination’s economy. In this study, we adopt a panel data approach to evaluate the impact of the London Olympic Games, Brazil World Cup, and Rio Olympic Games on the economic growth of the respective destinations. Using cross-sectional correlations between countries, we construct scenarios in which the hosting countries did not hold the mega-events and then estimate the time-varying impact of the events on the economy. The developed and developing countries exhibit different results.
Racially Profiling People and Places
Authors: Hannon Lance , Siegel Aaron
Published: June 2019

Lance Hannon and Aaron Siegel on profiling and policing physical space as well as people.
The Clinical Utility of Maceration Dressings in the Treatment of Inpatient Hand Infections: An Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes Compared to Standard Care
Authors: Malige Ajith , Lands Vince , Matullo Kristofer S.
Published: June 2019

Background: In cases of oral antibiotic-resistant infection of the hand, we propose utilizing a heated, moist maceration dressing to help shorten and simplify the in-hospital clinical course by increasing the efficacy of antibiotic deliverance to infection sites, increasing the success of nonoperative management, and decreasing eradication time of infection of the hand. Methods: Fifty-six patients older than 18 years of age who presented with hand infections requiring inpatient intravenous antibiotics at our suburban academic hospital over a 30-month period were included and randomly assigned to either the maceration dressing group or the standard treatment group. Maceration dressings included warm and moist gauze, kerlix, webril, Orthoglass, Aqua K Pad, and sling. Results: Fifty-two patients who were mostly male and younger than 60 years of age were included. Patients who used the maceration dressing had significantly shorter hospital lengths of stay ( P = .02) and intravenous antibiotics duration before transition to oral antibiotics ( P = .04), and decreased need for formal operating room irrigation and debridement to obtain source control ( P = .02) compared to patients treated with the standard dressing. Post-hoc analysis yielded improved outcomes when using the maceration dressing regardless of whether initial bedside incision and drainage was needed to decompress a superficial abscess or not. Conclusion: The maceration dressing can be used along with proper intravenous antibiotic treatment to improve the treatment course of patients with hand infections regardless of whether the patient needs an initial bedside incision and drainage or not. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level II.
Analysis of factor V in zebrafish demonstrates minimal levels needed for early hemostasis
Authors: Weyand Angela C. , Grzegorski Steve J. , Rost Megan S. , Lavik Kari I. , Ferguson Allison C. , Menegatti Marzia , Richter Catherine E. , Asselta Rosanna , Duga Stefano , Peyvandi Flora , Shavit Jordan A.
Published: June 2019

In humans, coagulation factor V (FV) deficiency is a rare, clinically heterogeneous bleeding disorder, suggesting that genetic modifiers may contribute to disease expressivity. Zebrafish possess many distinct advantages including high fecundity, optical clarity, external development, and homology with the mammalian hemostatic system, features that make it ideal for genetic studies. Our aim was to study the role of FV in zebrafish through targeted mutagenesis and apply the model to the study of human F5 variants. CRISPR-mediated genome editing of the zebrafish f5 locus was performed, generating mutants homozygous for a 49 base pair deletion in exon 4. Thrombus formation secondary to vascular endothelial injury was absent in f5−/− mutant embryos and larvae. Despite this severe hemostatic defect, homozygous mutants survived before succumbing to severe hemorrhage in adulthood. Human F5 variants of uncertain significance from patients with FV deficiency were evaluated, and the causative mutations identified and stratified by their ability to restore thrombus formation in larvae. Analysis of these novel mutations demonstrates variable residual FV function, with minimal activity being required to restore hemostasis in response to laser-induced endothelial injury. This in vivo evaluation may be beneficial for patients whose factor activity levels lack correlation with bleeding symptomatology, although limitations exist. Furthermore, homozygous mutant embryos tolerate what is a severe and lethal defect in mammals, suggesting the possibility of species-specific factors enabling survival, and allowing further study not possible in the mouse. Identification of these factors or other genetic modifiers could lead to novel therapeutic modalities.
Human peripheral blood DNAM-1neg NK cells are a terminally differentiated subset with limited effector functions
Authors: Stannard Kimberley A. , Lemoine Sébastien , Waterhouse Nigel J. , Vari Frank , Chatenoud Lucienne , Gandhi Maher K. , Martinet Ludovic , Smyth Mark J. , Guillerey Camille
Published: June 2019

Natural killer (NK) cells are a heterogeneous population of innate lymphocytes whose potent anticancer properties make them ideal candidates for cellular therapeutic application. However, our lack of understanding of the role of NK cell diversity in antitumor responses has hindered advances in this area. In this study, we describe a new CD56dim NK cell subset characterized by the lack of expression of DNAX accessory molecule-1 (DNAM-1). Compared with CD56bright and CD56dimDNAM-1pos NK cell subsets, CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cells displayed reduced motility, poor proliferation, lower production of interferon-γ, and limited killing capacities. Soluble factors secreted by CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cells impaired CD56dimDNAM-1pos NK cell–mediated killing, indicating a potential inhibitory role for the CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cell subset. Transcriptome analysis revealed that CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cells constitute a new mature NK cell subset with a specific gene signature. Upon in vitro cytokine stimulation, CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cells were found to differentiate from CD56dimDNAM-1pos NK cells. Finally, we report a dysregulation of NK cell subsets in the blood of patients diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, characterized by decreased CD56dimDNAM-1pos/CD56dimDNAM-1neg NK cell ratios and reduced cytotoxic activity of CD56dimDNAM-1pos NK cells. Altogether, our data offer a better understanding of human peripheral blood NK cell populations and have important clinical implications for the design of NK cell–targeting therapies.
Enhanced labile plasma iron in hematopoietic stem cell transplanted patients promotes Aspergillus outgrowth
Authors: Petzer Verena , Wermke Martin , Tymoszuk Piotr , Wolf Dominik , Seifert Markus , Ovaçin Rıdvan , Berger Sylvia , Orth-Höller Dorothea , Loacker Lorin , Weiss Günter , Haas Hubertus , Platzbecker Uwe , Theurl Igor
Published: June 2019

Key Points

Serum-enhanced labile plasma iron in patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT is critical for Aspergillus fumigatus growth in vitro. Transferrin iron in serum is inaccessible for A fumigatus, and uptake of iron in the form of eLPI involves fungal siderophores.
Cardiovascular risk reduction with once-weekly semaglutide in subjects with type 2 diabetes: a post hoc analysis of gender, age, and baseline CV risk profile in the SUSTAIN 6 trial
Authors: Leiter Lawrence A. , Bain Stephen C. , Hramiak Irene , Jódar Esteban , Madsbad Sten , Gondolf Theis , Hansen Thomas , Holst Ingrid , Lingvay Ildiko
Published: June 2019

Background

The SUSTAIN 6 trial demonstrated that once-weekly semaglutide (0.5 and 1.0 mg) significantly reduced major adverse cardiovascular (CV) events (MACE) vs placebo in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and high CV risk. The effects of gender, age and baseline CV risk on outcomes are important considerations for further study.

Methods

Subjects were grouped according to gender, age (50–65 years and > 65 years), and CV risk profile at baseline (prior myocardial infarction [MI] or stroke vs no prior MI or stroke, and established CV disease [CVD] vs CV risk factors alone, including subjects with chronic kidney disease). Time to MACE and its individual components (CV death, nonfatal MI, nonfatal stroke), hospitalization for unstable angina or heart failure, and revascularization (coronary and peripheral) were analyzed for all subgroups. Additional analyses were performed for gender and age to investigate change from baseline in HbA1c and body weight, as well as tolerability.

Results

A total of 3297 subjects were included. The majority of subjects (60.7%) were male; 43% were > 65 years of age; 41.5% had a history of MI or stroke; and 76.8% had established CVD. Compared with placebo, semaglutide reduced the risk of the first occurrence of MACE and each MACE component consistently across all subgroups (gender, age, and baseline CV risk profile). Revascularizations, HbA1c and body weight were also reduced consistently across all subgroups compared with placebo. Gastrointestinal adverse events in all treatment groups were more common among women than men, but rates of premature treatment discontinuation were similar for both genders.

Conclusions

In this post hoc analysis of SUSTAIN 6, once-weekly semaglutide vs placebo reduced the risk of MACE in all subjects included in the trial, regardless of gender, age, or baseline CV risk profile.

Trial registry Clinicaltrials.gov, Identifying number: NCT01720446, Date of registration: October 29, 2012
Canagliflozin for Japanese patients with chronic heart failure and type II diabetes
Authors: Sezai Akira , Sekino Hisakuni , Unosawa Satoshi , Taoka Makoto , Osaka Shunji , Tanaka Masashi
Published: June 2019

Background

Reports that sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors decrease cardiovascular death and events in patients with diabetes have attracted attention in the cardiology field. We conducted a study of canagliflozin in patients with chronic heart failure and type II diabetes.

Methods

Thirty-five Japanese patients with chronic heart failure and type II diabetes were treated with canagliflozin for 12 months. The primary endpoints were the changes of subcutaneous, visceral, and total fat areas at 12 months determined by computed tomography. Secondary endpoints included markers of glycemic control, renal function, and oxidative stress, as well as lipid parameters, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and echocardiographic left ventricular function.

Results

All fat areas (subcutaneous, visceral, and total) showed a significant decrease at 12 months. ANP and BNP also decreased significantly, along with improvement of renal function, oxidized LDL, and E/e′, FMD increased significantly after canagliflozin treatment.

Conclusion

Canagliflozin demonstrated cardiac and renal protective effects as well as improving oxidative stress, diastolic function, and endothelial function. This drug was effective in patients who had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and could become first-line therapy for such patients with diabetes.

Trial registration UMIN (http://www.umin.ac.jp/), Study ID: UMIN000021239
A plane-wave formulation and numerical analysis of elastic multicomponent inverse scattering series internal multiple prediction
Authors: Sun Jian , Innanen Kristopher A.
Published: June 2019

Internal multiple prediction and removal is a critical component of seismic data processing prior to imaging, inversion, and quantitative interpretation. Inverse scattering series methods predict multiples without identification of generators, and without requiring a velocity model. Land environments present several challenges to the inverse scattering series prediction process. This is particularly true for algorithm versions that explicitly account for elastic conversions and incorporate multicomponent data. The theory for elastic reference medium inverse scattering series internal multiple prediction was introduced several decades ago, but no numerical analysis or practical discussion of how to prepare data for it currently exists. We have focused our efforts on addressing this gap. We extend the theory from 2D to 3D, analyze the properties of the input data required by the existing algorithm, and, motivated by earlier research results, reformulate the algorithm in the plane-wave domain. The success of the prediction process relies on the ordering of events in either pseudodepth or vertical traveltime being the same as the ordering of reflecting interfaces in true depth. In elastic-multicomponent cases, it is difficult to ensure that this holds true because the events to be combined may have undergone multiple conversions as they were created. Several variants of the elastic-multicomponent prediction algorithm are introduced and examined for their tendency to violate ordering requirements (and create artifacts). A plane-wave domain prediction, based on elastic data that have been prepared (1) using variable, “best-fit” velocities as reference velocities, and (2) with an analytically determined vertical traveltime stretching formula, is identified as being optimal in the sense of generating artifact-free predictions with relatively small values of the search parameter [Formula: see text], while remaining fully data driven. These analyses are confirmed with simulated data from a layered model; these are the first numerical examples of elastic-multicomponent inverse scattering series internal multiple prediction.
Sparse spectral attributes to detect hydrocarbons: A case study from deep dolomite reservoirs
Authors: Gao Jianhu , Liu Bingyang , Li Shengjun , Wang Hongqiu
Published: June 2019

Hydrocarbon detection is always one of the most critical sections in geophysical exploration, which plays an important role in subsequent hydrocarbon production. However, due to the low signal-to-noise ratio and weak reflection amplitude of deep seismic data, some conventional methods do not always provide favorable hydrocarbon prediction results. The interesting dolomite reservoirs in Central Sichuan are buried over an average depth of 4500 m, and the dolomite rocks have a low porosity below approximately 4%, which is measured by well-logging data. Furthermore, the dominant system of pores and fractures as well as strong heterogeneity along the lateral and vertical directions lead to some difficulties in describing the reservoir distribution. Spectral decomposition (SD) has become successful in illuminating subsurface features and can also be used to identify potential hydrocarbon reservoirs by detecting low-frequency shadows. However, the current applications for hydrocarbon detection always suffer from low resolution for thin reservoirs, probably due to the influence of the window function and without a prior constraint. To address this issue, we developed sparse inverse SD (SISD) based on the wavelet transform, which involves a sparse constraint of time-frequency spectra. We focus on investigating the applications of sparse spectral attributes derived from SISD to deep marine dolomite hydrocarbon detection from a 3D real seismic data set with an area of approximately [Formula: see text]. We predict and evaluate gas-bearing zones in two target reservoir segments by analyzing and comparing the spectral amplitude responses of relatively high- and low-frequency components. The predicted results indicate that most favorable gas-bearing areas are located near the northeast fault zone in the upper reservoir segment and at the relatively high structural positions in the lower reservoir segment, which are in good agreement with the gas-testing results of three wells in the study area.
Machine learning regressors and their metrics to predict synthetic sonic and mechanical properties
Authors: Gupta Ishank , Devegowda Deepak , Jayaram Vikram , Rai Chandra , Sondergeld Carl
Published: June 2019

Planning and optimizing completion design for hydraulic fracturing require a quantifiable understanding of the spatial distribution of the brittleness of the rock and other geomechanical properties. Eventually, the goal is to maximize the stimulated reservoir volume with minimal cost overhead. The compressional and shear velocities ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively) can also be used to calculate Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and other mechanical properties. In the field, sonic logs are not commonly acquired and operators often resort to regression to predict synthetic sonic logs. We have compared several machine learning regression techniques for their predictive ability to generate synthetic sonic ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) and a brittleness indicator, namely hardness, using the laboratory core data. We used techniques such as multilinear regression (MLR), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, support vector regression, random forest (RF), gradient boosting (GB), and alternating conditional expectation. We found that the commonly used MLR is suboptimal with less-than-satisfactory predictive accuracies. Other techniques, particularly RF and GB, have greater predictive capabilities. We also used Gaussian process simulation for uncertainty quantification because it provides uncertainty estimates on the predicted values for a wide range of inputs. Random forest and extreme GB techniques also show low uncertainties in prediction.
Rocking the boat of vitamin D research in schizophrenia and depression
Authors: Tiemeier Henning
Published: June 2019

A review of studies on vitamin D in schizophrenia and depression found insufficient evidence to inform advice for clinicians. On the basis of the review, I suggest advice for researchers, including better controlling for confounders in observational studies, testing the reverse causality hypothesis, studying vitamin D as a treatment or prevention specifically in patients with more pigmented skin, and prospective community trials of vitamin D supplementation combined with lifestyle advice.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.
ANNOUNCE: A randomized, placebo (PBO)-controlled, double-blind, phase (Ph) III trial of doxorubicin (dox) + olaratumab versus dox + PBO in patients (pts) with advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STS).
Authors: Tap William D. , Wagner Andrew J. , Papai Zsuzsanna , Ganjoo Kristen N. , Yen Chueh-Chuan , Schoffski Patrick , Abdul Razak Albiruni Ryan , Martin Broto Javier , Spira Alexander I. , Kawai Akira , Krarup-Hansen Anders , Le Cesne Axel , Van Tine Brian , Naito Yoichi , Park Se Hoon , Soldatenkova Victoria , Mo Gary , Shahir Ashwin , Wright Jennifer , Jones Robin Lewis
Published: June 2019

LBA3

Background: Dox is standard therapy in STS. In a Ph 2 trial, olaratumab (a human IgG1 antibody targeting PDGFRα) + dox improved overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) vs dox. ANNOUNCE aimed to confirm the OS benefit in advanced STS. Methods: Adult pts with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic STS, anthracycline-naïve, and ECOG PS 0-1 were eligible. Pts were randomized 1:1 to olaratumab (20mg/kg Cycle 1, 15mg/kg subsequent cycles) or PBO on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle combined with dox (75mg/m2) on Day 1 for up to 8 cycles. After 8 cycles, pts with disease control continued olaratumab or PBO until progression or toxicity. Randomization was stratified by histology, prior systemic therapy, ECOG PS, and geographic region. Dexrazoxane use was allowed to mitigate dox-related cardiotoxicity. Primary endpoints were OS in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population and/or leiomyosarcoma (LMS) subset of the ITT population; the study was designed to be positive if either primary endpoint was met. Secondary endpoints included PFS, response/disease control rates, safety, and pharmacokinetics. Results: 509 pts were randomized: 258 in the investigational and 251 in the control arm. Baseline pt characteristics were well balanced. Dexrazoxane was received by 63.0% vs 65.1% of pts (investigational vs control arm, respectively, for all data). In the ITT population, median OS was 20.4 vs 19.8 months (m) (HR=1.05, 95% CI: 0.84-1.30; p = 0.69) and was 21.6 vs 21.9 m in LMS pts (HR=0.95, 95% CI: 0.69-1.31; p = 0.76). Median PFS was lower in the investigational arm in the ITT population (5.4 vs 6.8 m; HR=1.23, 95% CI: 1.01-1.50; p = 0.04) and in LMS pts (4.3 vs 6.9 m, HR=1.22, 95% CI: 0.92-1.63; p = 0.17). Median dox exposure was 6 vs 7 cycles. Safety was similar between arms. Olaratumab serum concentrations reached levels expected from prior trials. Additional subgroup/biomarker results will be presented. Conclusions: ANNOUNCE did not confirm that olaratumab + dox, followed by olaratumab monotherapy, improves OS over dox in pts with advanced STS. Further analyses are warranted to explore the inconsistent outcomes between the Ph 3 and Ph 2 studies. Clinical trial information: NCT02451943.
Budget Impact of Treatment-Free Remission in Treating Chronic-Phase Philadelphia-Positive Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Lebanon
Authors: Elias Fadia , Gebran Anthony , Said Christina , Beker Russell V. , Ammar Walid
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) ranks second in terms of disease-related health care expenditures at the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) after breast cancer. With the introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), survival of patients with CML has dramatically improved and approached that of the normal population. In recent years, several studies demonstrated that patients who achieve a deep molecular response while receiving TKI therapy could safely attempt treatment-free remission (TFR), the new treatment goal in patients with CML. The objective is to estimate the budget impact of TFR at the MoPH.

METHODS

Analyses were done on 162 patients with CML receiving imatinib, nilotinib, or dasatinib, as first-line or second-line therapy, over a 4-year time horizon using MoPH drug pricing. The model assumed that patients could attempt TFR after 36 months of TKI therapy, where the last 24 months were at stable molecular response as per MoPH and National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. Duration of TFR was based on European Stop Kinase Inhibitor treatment-free survival curve.

RESULTS

Out of the 162 patients, 83 were eligible to attempt TFR, 36 patients were not eligible, 32 patients were lost to follow-up, two patients died as a result of CML progression, and five died as a result of other causes. The total cost of CML treatment with TFR from the time of analysis and over 4 years can be reduced by more than 7 million US dollars (57%).

CONCLUSION

The model can be used to inform health care decision makers on the importance of TFR and the potential savings.
Malignant Hyperthermia–Susceptible Adult Patient and Ambulatory Surgery Center: Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia and Ambulatory Surgical Care Committee of the American Society of Anesthesiologists Position Statement
Authors: Urman Richard D. , Rajan Niraja , Belani Kumar , Gayer Steven , Joshi Girish P.
Published: June 2019

This document represents a joint effort of the Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia (SAMBA) and the Ambulatory Surgical Care Committee of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) concerning the safe anesthetic care of adult malignant hyperthermia (MH)-susceptible patients in a free-standing ambulatory surgery center (ASC). Adult MH-susceptible patients can safely undergo a procedure in a free-standing ASC assuming that proper precautions for preventing, identifying, and managing MH are taken. The administration of preoperative prophylaxis with dantrolene is not indicated in MH-susceptible patients scheduled for elective surgery. There is no evidence to recommend an extended stay in the ASC, and the patient may be discharged when the usual discharge criteria for outpatient surgery are met. Survival from an MH crisis in an ASC setting requires early recognition, prompt treatment, and timely transfer to a center with critical care capabilities.
Preoperative MRI features and clinical laboratory indicators for predicting the early therapeutic response of hepatocellular carcinoma to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with High-intensity focused ultrasound treatment
Authors: Zhang Haiping , He Xiaojing , Yu Jiayi , Song Wenlong , Liu Xinjie , Liu Yangyang , Zhou Jun , Guo Dajing
Published: June 2019

Objectives:

To evaluate the value of preoperative MRI features and laboratory indicators in predicting the early response of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment and to establish a preoperative prediction model.

Methods:

A total of 188 patients with 223 tumors who underwent TACE/HIFU treatment from January 2011 to June 2017 were included. Tumors were divided into three groups (< 2 cm, 2 – 5 cm,> 5 cm) and classified as non-complete response (NCR) and complete response (CR) cohorts according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Cancer of the Liver (RECICL) 2015 revised version. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to determine independent predictors, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic power of each predictor. The prediction model was derived on the β coefficient of the multivariate regression analysis of the predictors.

Results:

Irregular margins in the 2 – 5 cm group were closely related to early NCR. Irregular margins, arterial peritumoral enhancement and abnormal alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) were independent predictors of early NCR in the > 5 cm group. The prediction model of this group suggests that irregular margins combined with arterial peritumoral enhancement and abnormal AFP combined with irregular margins and arterial peritumoral enhancement predict an increased risk of early NCR.

Conclusion:

Irregular margins of 2 – 5 cm tumors and irregular margins, arterial peritumoral enhancement, and abnormal AFP of tumors > 5 cm can be applied to predict the early response of HCC to TACE/HIFU treatment.

Advances in knowledge:

TACE combined with HIFU treatment may be able to significantly improve survival in patients with advanced HCC. Conventional MRI features and laboratory indicators are readily available without complex post-processing. It is feasible to predict the response of HCC after TACE/HIFU treatment based on preoperative conventional MRI features and laboratory indicators, the combination of multiple features predicts high-risk of non-complete response.
Violence against Women: A Review of Literature with reference to Men Perpetrators
Authors: Kukkaje Mythri
Published: June 2019

Historically, researchers have studied violence against women through varied lines of enquiry. The literature on the understanding of the phenomenon of violence against women can be broadly classified into two categories: a) studies that examine distinct risk factors and b) studies that propose theoretical frameworks to explain the underlying process that leads to violence. The present study reviews the prominent factors and theories associated with violence against women with reference to perpetrators, specifically, men.
Perspective Competences of Teachers in the Development of the Digital Economy
Authors: Цветкова М. , Tsvetkova Marina
Published: June 2019

The digital world is already saturated with complex information and cyber-physical systems, smart devices, robots, the Internet of things, artifi cial intelligence, mobile technologies (for communication and control of various devices at any distance), digital media, digital Commerce and digital global communications of people without borders. The teacher needs to constantly learn and use all the positive aspects of this new world for the development of children’s creative abilities and education of their digital eco-culture, which allows to form an educated digital society, a global public knowledge network, cyber society without aggression.
Hotel Enterprise Marketing
Authors: Ключевская Ирина , Klyuchevskaya Irina
Published: June 2019

The textbook "Marketing of a hotel enterprise" is intended for university students in the areas of preparation "Hotel service", "Service", "Tourism" - bachelor degree.
The textbook examines in detail the essence of hotel marketing, the specifics of marketing hospitality services, marketing strategies of hotel enterprises in the field of product and pricing policies, innovations in the development of hotel products, marketing research and market segmentation, promotion of hotel services.
The textbook can be used for training students of organizations of additional professional education, students of both full-time and distance learning, and individual chapters can be useful for college students.
Elasticity, Plasticity and Creep Theory Bases
Authors: Чемодуров Владимир , Chemodurov Vladimir , Ажермачев Сергей , Azhermachev Sergey , Пшеничная-Ажермачева Ксения , Pshenichnaya-Azhermacheva Xenia
Published: June 2019

The manual contains statement of the course of the elasticity, plasticity and creep theory taught in Academy of Construction and Architecture of the V.I.Vernadsky Crimean federal university. Material of the book is illustrated a large number of examples from engineering practice.
The manual is allowed by Council of the Crimean federal university as the manual for construction specialties of universities and faculties. Also the book can be useful to design engineers in their practical activities.
Co-Expression Network Analysis Identifies Possible Hub Genes in Aging of the Human Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Payán-Gómez, MD, MSc, PhD César , Riaño-Moreno, MD, MSc Julián , Amador-Muñoz, MD, MSc Diana , Ramírez-Clavijo, MSc, PhD Sandra
Published: June 2019

Introduction: Aging is the main risk factor for the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The central nervous system is particularly susceptible to progressive functional deterioration associated with age, among the brain regions the prefrontal cortex (PFC) has one of the highest involvements. Transcriptomics studies of this brain region have identified the decrease in synaptic function and activation of neuroglia cells as fundamental characteristics of the aging process. The aim of this study was to identify hub genes in the transcriptomic deregulation in the PFC aging to advance in the knowledge of this process. Materials and methods: A gene co-expression analysis was carried out for 45 people 60 to 80 years old compared with 38 people 20 to 40 years old. The networks were visualized and analyzed using Cytoscape; citoHubba was used to determine which genes had the best topological characteristics in the co-expression networks. Results: Five genes with high topological characteristics were identified. Four of them —hpca, cacng3, ca10, plppr4— were repressed and one was over-expressed —Cryab—. Conclusion: The four repressed genes are expressed preferentially in neurons and regulate the synaptic function and the neuronal plasticity, while the overexpressed gene is typical of glial cells and is expressed as a response to neuronal damage, facilitating myelination and neuronal regeneration.
Factores inmunológicos relacionados con VIH-1 en pacientes colombianos
Authors: Marin-Palma, MSc Damariz , Cardona-Arias, MSc Jaiberth A. , Hernández, Sci Doc Juan Carlos
Published: June 2019

Introducción: los inflamasomas dirigen la maduración de las citoquinas il-1b e il-18, las cuales contribuyen en la patogénesis de la infección por VIH-1. Dada la complejidad de la infección, se hace necesaria la búsqueda de marcadores que permitan identificar nuevos blancos terapéuticos o hacer seguimiento del estado inmunológico de los pacientes. Por lo tanto, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue explorar el efecto independiente los principales componentes inflamatorios sobre la infección por VIH-1. Materiales y métodos: estudio analítico con 36 pacientes vih+ y 36 controles sanos, pareados por edad y sexo. Se cuantificó la carga viral, los linfocitos T cd4+/cd8+, el perfil lipídico, la proteína C reactiva y las concentraciones séricas de il-1β, il-6 e il-18. El MRNA de los genes relacionados con los inflamasomas fue cuantificado por RT-PCR en tiempo real. El análisis estadístico se basó en medidas de resumen, pruebas de hipótesis y regresión logística binaria multivariante. Resultados: se encontraron menores valores de HDL y MRNA il-18 y mayores de MRNA NLRP1 y MRNA ASC en los pacientes con VIH-1, comparados con los controles. Los valores de HDL y MRNA il-18 se correlacionaron con los recuentos de linfocitos. En el análisis multivariado se encontró que la relación cd4/cd8, el MRNA il-18 y el MRNA ASC pueden constituir las principales variables que tienen un potencial explicativo sobre la infección por VIH-1 en la población de estudio. Conclusión: se evidenció la importancia de estudiar los inflamasomas, dado que en la población de estudio constituyen potenciales blancos terapéuticos para disminuir la respuesta inflamatoria.