bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control and data acquisition system for the rolling machine
Authors: Sumorek Andrzej , Buczaj Marcin
Published: January 2019

Rolling machines are often used for forming flat elements or pipes. Problems occur when used to produce cylindrical elements other than pipes, or when experimental materials are used. It is required to introduce flexible control of the rolling process parameters in such cases. It is necessary to monitor the device operating parameters. When a rolling machine works with experimental materials, there are no typical control and acquisition data systems available. The article presents the concept and capabilities of the control and computer data acquisition system supporting the rolling process. The main task of software system is acquisition of force and kinetic parameters related to the analysed process of the compression during rolling. This system allows current recording and analysis of five physical values. The acquisition data application is developed in National Instruments LabVIEW environment. The software algorithm is based on the state machine. The article contains a detailed description of hardware and software implementation of the functions mentioned.
Technical and Organisational Changes in a Selected Production Process
Authors: Rudawska Anna , Flechsig Anna , Miturska Izabela
Published: January 2019

Production is the most important and major activity of a production system. It may relate to goods used in various industries, as well as in agriculture or horticulture. The aim of this article is to analyse a selected production process and to propose several technical and organisational changes within the process of producing cucumbers in greenhouses in the form of a conceptual design. The scope of the article includes analysis and presentation of the current state of the selected production system, presentation of the modification project, as well as the possible impact of the proposed changes on the process under analysis. The subject of analysis herein is the greenhouse equipment, the production process organisation, technical facilities, production quality system functioning, proposition of changes and their effect on production. The analysis and modifications involved the production of cucumbers in greenhouses and their further preparation for sales, i.e. planting, harvesting, loading, segregating, weighing, packing and greenhouse liquidation. The article presents technical and organisational changes related with: the company’s technological facilities, space organisation in the production hall, recordkeeping of hours worked, as well as the number of employees. The aforementioned modifications will effect in inter alia: reduced working time, elimination of redundant stoppages and modernisation of technological facilities.
FEM analysis of piston for aircraft two stroke diesel engine
Authors: Magryta Paweł , Gęca Michał
Published: January 2019

The paper presents an analysis of piston thermal loads in an opposed piston engine. The purpose of the work was to check the achieved thermal values of different piston models. Two types of pistons were analysed. The first piston was made entirely of aluminium. The second one was a split piston, made of steel and aluminium. Simulation studies were performed using Abaqus software. Boundary conditions were taken from previously made simulations conducted in AVL Fire software. The wall temperature of the piston was mapped from CFD combustion model. The results of the analyses were illustrated by the distribution of temperature fields on a piston surface. The distribution of temperature fields on the piston surface shows that maximum temperatures are located on sharp edges of a piston bowl, values of maximum temperatures are 402 and 512 °C for aluminium and composed piston respectively.
Numerical investigation of the cope hole shape impact on fatigue life of welded joints in steel bridges
Authors: Śledziewski Krzysztof
Published: January 2019

Holes in the bridge girders are usually made at the joint of strips. In most cases, they are made when there is a need to make double-sided butt welds and in order to avoid welds crossing. Size of the hole is selected in order to allow full penetration of the strips across their whole width and also to ensure free access to the welds during NDT. Welded joints with holes, due to low fatigue life, are critical elements affecting durability of large-span steel bridge structures. Low fatigue life of joints with holes results mostly from high concentration of stresses near the weld toe caused by local reduction of cross-section. The paper covers parametric studies based on finite elements method in order to determine the impact of geometrical changes of the hole shape on distribution of stresses within probable areas of cracks initiation and durability of such joint. With reference to experimental studies results, four different holes geometries were analysed: semi-circle (conventional), triangle, parabola of second degree and oval. Assessment of the fatigue was performed using the so-called hot spot method, i.e. geometrical stresses. Results of the studies show that geometrical change of the hole shape affects the stresses concentration change, but it does not translate to the increase of fatigue life of such joint.
Two Approaches to the Problem of High-cycle Fatigue of Materials and Structures
Authors: Mironov Vladimir , Lukashuk  , Ogorelkov Dmitriy
Published: January 2019

Creation of new types of materials and development of new methods aimed at extending the lifetime of structures are two interconnected approaches to solve the problem of metallic structures fatigue. The paper considers a method for estimating the efficiency of damping implemented in metallic structures by means of energy-intensive materials. The results of comparative calculation are given on the ultimate number of transverse vibration cycles in bridge girders. The calculation uses a linear hypothesis of fatigue-caused damage summation and a model of cyclic material degradation. Notable increase of the vibration decrement for foam-filled metallic structures is predicted, with the lifetime of products lengthening as a result.
The Effect of Hypervelocity Impact Loading on Explosively Welded Ti/Al/Al Plate
Authors: Wachowski Marcin , Fras Teresa , Kosturek Robert , Śnieżek Lucjan , Szachogłuchowicz Ireneusz , Grzelak Krzysztof
Published: January 2019

The aim of this paper is to investigate the ballistic properties of explosively welded Ti6Al4V/AA1050/AA2519 laminate under hypervelocity (4000 m/s) impact loading of projectile made of aluminium ball. The paper describes the influence of the projectile impact energy on the structure of the laminate components and delamination of bonds depending on its strength and presence of intermetallic phases. Observation of the failure is performed for the plate impacted for aluminium alloy side. Results revealed ductile shearing as a dominant process leading to perforation.
A Copper Oxide (CuO) Thin Films Deposited by Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Bellal Youcef , Bouhank Antar , Serrar Hacene , Tüken Tunç , Sığırcık Gökmen
Published: January 2019

A simple and low-cost procedure (spray pyrolysis) was used to elaborate a copper oxide thin films on ordinary glass substrates. A copper nitrate was used and dissolved in two different solutions (Water, Methanol) S1 and S2 respectively in order to obtain an equal concentration; CS1,S2=0.5M. The spray pyrolysis deposition made at fixed temperature T=500°C and different volumes of S1 or S2 on the glass substrates. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-vis spectrophotometry were used to determinate the structural, morphological and optical properties of CuO thin films. The X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the presence of the polycrystalline phase of CuO as monoclinic crystal structure with preferential orientation along (110), (002), (111), (200) and (020). Their optical band gaps ranged from 3.95 to 4.02eV for thin films made with S1, and from 1.6 to 1.95eV for thin films made with S2 with a high absorbency in the visible region, which is in agreement with the values of the literature.
Automated Valve Fault Detection Based on Acoustic Emission Parameters and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Salah M. Ali Al-Obaidi , Hui K.H. , Hee L.M. , Leong M. Salman , Mahdi Ali Abdul-Hussain , Abdelrhman Ahmed M. , Ali YH
Published: January 2019

Reciprocating compressor is one of the most popular classes of machines use with wide applications in the industry. However, valve failures in this machine often results unplanned shutdown. Therefore, the effective valve fault detection technique is very necessary to ensure safe operation and to reduce the unplanned shutdown. This paper propose an artificial intelligence (AI) model to detect valve condition in reciprocating compressor based on acoustic emission (AE) parameters measurement and artificial neural network (ANN). A set of experiments were conducted on an industrial reciprocating air compressor with several operational conditions including good valve and faulty valve to acquire AE signal. A fault detection model was then developed from the combination of healthy-faulty data using ANN tool box available in MATLAB. The results of the model validation demonstrated accuracy of valves condition classification exceeding 97%. Eventually, the authors intend to do more efforts for programming this model in smart portable device which can be one of the innovative engineering technologies in the field of machinery condition monitoring in the near future.
A Comparison of Finite Element Analysis (With Additional Aspects) For Predicting the Noise and Vibration for Railway Project in Malaysia
Authors: Yeo Siang Chuan , Lim Meng Hee , Eng Hoe Cheng
Published: January 2019

This paper is about predicting the noise and vibrations for railways project in Malaysia by using Finite Element Analysis method. In recent years, Malaysia is massively developing railways industry. This has created a great awareness in the public, regarding noise and vibration from railways trains during operations are generated from the rolling interaction of the wheels with the rails. Additional noise may be generated from brake squeals during braking at the stations and curved segments of the rail alignments. Over the years, it is relatively easy to measure the acoustic sound power of a train and to calculate noise levels. However, it would be advantageous to be able to reliably and efficiently predict the noise and vibration impact resulting from proposed railways projects. Comprehensive noise and vibration shall be predicted to determine noise and vibration levels along the entire track alignment to ensure that noise and vibration levels shall comply with Malaysia Department of Environment (DOE) approved limits. The result of analyses can be used to identify and to design noise and vibration mitigation measures for the entire railway project. Several methods have evolved to predict noise and vibration from various operational sources, but their suitability for prediction of noise and vibration from railways trains is not well known and has not yet been thoroughly tested. This study document finite element analysis undertaken for the noise and vibration aspects of the viaduct design of the railways track. Data and inputs for finite element model and analysis are including the aspect of “Geometry, atmospheric, ground effect, analysis type and boundary conditions”, as mentioned by Makarewicz (1998) and Lamancusa (2009). A comparison of finite element model and analysis will be conducted by adding the additional aspects of “Material properties and applied loads”, which to be determined as better accuracy of predicting noise and vibration from railways train.
Stratification of, albeit Artificial Intelligent (AI) Driven, High-Risk Elderly Outpatients for priority house call visits - a framework to transform healthcare services from reactive to preventive
Authors: Chandrasekar Vuppalapati , Anitha Ilapakurti , Santosh Kedari , Jayashankar Vuppalapati
Published: January 2019

House calls have nostalgic view and have practiced decades ago when the doctor arrived at the patient's door carrying a big black bag. House calls could prove to be a better way of treating very sick, elderly patients while they can still live at home. One of the greatest benefits is avoidance of Healthcare associated infections. Additionally, house calls save time and energy of immediate care members of and helps seek for ways to have transport for elderly. A house calls doctor, nonetheless, can see only five to seven patients a day. One reason is that a house call visit can take longer than an office visit, even after taking travel time into account. One way of optimizing house call delivery services is to employ AI based system to identify and generate priority list so that the healthcare providers have greater coverage of their needed patients house calls are performed in-time. In this paper, we propose innovative novel idea “AI enabled house calls are best medicine practices for the next generation”. Finally, as part of the paper, we will present Sanjeevani house call service that is been deployed and currently in production
An intelligent bearing fault diagnosis system: A review
Authors: Saufi S.R. , Ahmad Z.A.B , Leong M.S , Lim M.H
Published: January 2019

Rolling element bearing (REB) is a well-known component that most extensively used in the industry. They operate in extreme condition (high temperature, dirty environment) which may lead to unexpected failure after the certain operation. Faulty on bearing cause severe equipment damage, financial loss and threaten people's life. Development of proper fault diagnosis system of REB capable of preventing unexpected failure from occurs and maintain the machine work in the healthy state. Over a few decades, machine learning is introduced to provide a consistent fault diagnosis result. Hence, this paper reviewed the development of bearing diagnosis method using machine learning models.
Intelligent Prediction of Clinker Formation Condition for Steam Boiler Tubes Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Firas Basim Ismail , Yeo Kee Wei , Noor Fazreen Ahmad Fuzi
Published: January 2019

Ash, as one of the by-product of combustion either accumulates onto boiler tubes as slag or is collected by electrostatic precipitators attached to the backend of the boiler. Flue gas will transport these ash particles either to the inner surfaces of the boiler or to the dust collecting facilities at the backend of the boiler. Sintered ash deposits formed in the radiant section of the boiler are known as clinkers and they contribute to a wide variety of problems to the boiler. Preventative measures to combat clinker formation is in dire need to the energy sector. In this study, a prediction model using real plan data was developed for detection of clinker formation conditions. Several variations of Artificial Neural Networks were tried and test, with emphasis given on the feed-forward neural network, cascade neural network and recurrent neural network. In addition, sensitivity analysis was also conducted to determine the influence of random input variables to their respective response variables. The Tornado Diagram is selected as the method to determine the most influential parameter for clinker formation. It is expected that the Recurrent Neural Network prediction model and the identified most influential input parameter for clinker formation will assist operators in decision making for the maintenance of boilers.
Analysis and Study of Heat Transfer Resistance Inside and Outside the Reentry Capsule
Authors: Yang Chen , Xianwen Ning , Sheng Su
Published: January 2019

According to the heat transfer characteristics inside and outside of the lunar-earth high-speed reentry capsule, a typical calculation model of heat conduction in external thermal protection system(TPS) coupled with internal radiation was established. The thermal properties of thermal resistance inside and outside the reentry capsule were analysed. The effects of thickness of the TPS, surface conditions and atmospheric pressures on the temperature were further explored. The results showed that atmosphere pressure was necessary to be controlled under 10Pa to ensure the safety temperature of the equipment and pipe. Based on the critical pressure, the configuration was optimized. The results provide detailed data for the system design of the lunar exploration, and also provide a reference for the thermal design of the atmospheric reentry spacecraft.
Tip-replaceable Horn with Full Wavelength for Ultrasonic Welding
Authors: Kim Mi Ae , Im Chang Seo , Park Dong Sam
Published: January 2019

Ultrasonic welding is faster, environmental friendly, and more efficient than conventional welding. Ultrasonic welding stack, the key part in ultrasonic welding equipment, is composed of transducer, booster, and horn. In the case of ultrasonic welding, wear in the welding tips or breakage of horn occurs because ultrasonic vibration of tips is transmitted directly to the welding material. If grinding of the tips is repeated several times, the mass of horn is reduced and the frequency characteristic is changed. So, there is a limit to refurbishment. In additions, as materials of horn are relatively expensive, some cost problems could be occurred for replacing horns. This study, in order to reduce the manufacturing cost of horn, devised a tip-replaceable ultrasonic horn so that its tip can be easily replaced whenever it is worn. For the designed shape, natural frequency and vibration mode are analyzed using FEA. Through the FEA, the optimal tip-replaceable horn with resonance frequency of 40 kHz is proposed.
Probing orientation information using 3-dimensional reciprocal space volume analysis
Authors: Fancher C. M. , Hoffmann C. M. , Frontzek M. D. , Bunn J. R. , Payzant E. A.
Published: January 2019

The crystallographic texture of polycrystalline materials is the result of how these materials are processed and what external forces materials have experienced. Neutron and X-ray diffraction are standard methods to characterize global crystallographic textures. However, conventional neutron and X-ray texture analyses rely on pole figure inversion routines derived from intensity analysis of individual reflections or powder Rietveld analysis to reconstruct and model the orientation distribution from slices through reciprocal space. In this work, we describe an original approach to directly probe the crystallographic texture information of rolled aluminum from the intensity distribution in 3-dimensional reciprocal space volumes measured simultaneously. Using the TOPAZ time-of-flight Laue neutron diffractometer, reciprocal space analysis allowed determination of “pole spheres” with <1° angular resolution. These pole spheres are compared with reconstructed pole figures from classic texture analysis.
Causality and topology in sub-Lorentzian geometry
Authors: Grochowski Marek
Published: January 2019

Suppose that (M, H, g) is a sub-Lorentzian manifold, and let f: M → M be a bijection such that f and f−1 preserve timelike future directed curves. It is proved that under some mild assumptions made on (M, H, g), f is a homeomorphism. The presented result is a generalization of the known result in spacetime geometry obtained by Malament [J. Math. Phys. 18(7), 1399–1404 (1977)].
Alloying during local droplet etching of AlGaAs surfaces with aluminium
Authors: Zocher M. , Heyn Ch. , Hansen W.
Published: January 2019

Local droplet etching (LDE) drills self-assembled nanoholes into AlGaAs surfaces and represents a powerful technique for the fabrication of versatile quantum structures like quantum dots, rings, and molecules. Usually, LDE is performed at temperatures T=600−680°C if Al is used as the etching material. Now, atomic force microscopy establishes that Al-LDE drills nanoholes also at very low temperatures down to T=360°C which is 300°C below the melting point of bulk Al. Several possible etching mechanisms like a melting-point depression, solid-state etching, and alloying are discussed. Selective wet-chemical etching experiments using HF indicate significant alloying with Ga from the substrate, and thus the formation of Al-Ga droplets for etching. The upper limit of x≤50% for the Al content inside the Al-Ga droplets is indicated by the selectivity of the HF acid. This value is in agreement with an estimation of x = 0.42, which is based on the measured droplet and hole volumes. A comparison with the Al-Ga phase diagram indicates that a completely liquid phase of the droplets is essential for etching.
Predictive collective variable discovery with deep Bayesian models
Authors: Schöberl Markus , Zabaras Nicholas , Koutsourelakis Phaedon-Stelios
Published: January 2019

Extending spatio-temporal scale limitations of models for complex atomistic systems considered in biochemistry and materials science necessitates the development of enhanced sampling methods. The potential acceleration in exploring the configurational space by enhanced sampling methods depends on the choice of collective variables (CVs). In this work, we formulate the discovery of CVs as a Bayesian inference problem and consider the CVs as hidden generators of the full-atomistic trajectory. The ability to generate samples of the fine-scale atomistic configurations using limited training data allows us to compute estimates of observables as well as our probabilistic confidence on them. The methodology is based on emerging methodological advances in machine learning and variational inference. The discovered CVs are related to physicochemical properties which are essential for understanding mechanisms especially in unexplored complex systems. We provide a quantitative assessment of the CVs in terms of their predictive ability for alanine dipeptide (ALA-2) and ALA-15 peptide.
Vibrations of van der Waals heterostructures: A study by molecular dynamics and continuum mechanics
Authors: Zhang Jin
Published: January 2019

The vibration behaviors of van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures are studied based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and continuum mechanics modelling in this paper. Graphene/hexagonal boron nitride and graphene/silicene systems are considered as two typical examples of heterostructures studied here. Our MD results show that the resonance frequency of vdW heterostructures grows as their layer number increases and tends to be saturated when the layer number is relatively large. These findings deviate from results of the conventional composite beam (CB) model of vdW heterostructures. By abandoning the assumptions in the CB model, we propose a novel multiple beam (MB) model giving a result that agrees well with MD results. We find from the MB model that compared to other factors the interlayer shearing effect plays the key role in determining the resonance behaviors of vdW heterostructures. Considering this fact, we further simplify the MB model to a much simpler form which gives a simple but precise description of the vibration behaviors of vdW heterostructures. This simplified MB model suggests that the resonance frequency of vdW heterostructures can be optimized by changing their total mass, the sum of bending stiffness of their component layers, and the sum of interlayer shear modulus of their vdW layers.
Structured targets for detection of Megatesla-level magnetic fields through Faraday rotation of XFEL beams
Authors: Wang T. , Toncian T. , Wei M. S. , Arefiev A. V.
Published: January 2019

A solid density target irradiated by a high-intensity laser pulse can become relativistically transparent, which then allows it to sustain an extremely strong laser-driven longitudinal electron current. The current generates a filament with a slowly varying MT-level azimuthal magnetic field that has been shown to prompt efficient emission of multi-MeV photons in the form of a collimated beam required for multiple applications. This work examines the feasibility of using an x-ray beam from the European x-ray free electron laser for the detection of the magnetic field via the Faraday rotation. Post-processed three dimensional particle-in-cell simulations show that, even though the relativistic transparency dramatically reduces the rotation in a uniform target, the detrimental effect can be successfully reversed by employing a structured target containing a channel to achieve a rotation angle of 10−4 rad. The channel must be relativistically transparent with an electron density that is lower than the near-solid density in the bulk. The detection setup has been optimized by varying the channel radius and focusing the laser pulse driving the magnetic field. We predict that the Faraday rotation can produce 103 photons with polarization orthogonal to the polarization of the incoming 100 fs long probe beam with 5 × 1012 x-ray photons. Based on the calculated rotation angle, the polarization purity must be much better than 10−8 in order to detect the signal above the noise level.
In operando thermal signature probe for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Mistry Aashutosh N. , Palle Hanumanth Reddy , Mukherjee Partha P.
Published: January 2019

Thermal metastability is an inescapable trait of lithium-ion batteries. However, canonically, only electrochemical signatures are studied as calorimetry imposes a controlled environment to isolate the self-heating signal. We propose an in operando approach for characterizing the thermal signatures. Using an inverse heat transfer formulation, we deconvolve the self-heating signature from other simultaneous heat transfer modes. Temporal variation of heat generation is subsequently estimated. This approach does not presuppose a particular electrochemical operation and is agnostic to materials used in the Li-ion cells. The generality and simplicity of this experimental approach rely on inverse thermal analysis and concurrent calibration of ambient natural convection response.
Terminology and translation in Arabic
Authors: Hamzé Hassan
Published: January 2019

Much of scientific and technical terminology is developed outside of the Arabic world. Therefore, translation, in all its various aspects, seems to be the only means of creating terminology in Arabic. Borrowings, derivations and semantic transfers are used by terminologists and translators, as each Arabic translator is also, by desire or by necessity, a terminologist. Consequently, Western terminological problems are rampant in Arabic. There are three reasons for the major shortcomings that characterize terminology in Arabic translations: (1) Western is consider terminology as an ideal terminology with a one-to-one relation between concept and term, (2) the linguistic aspect is considered as a priority because term is confused with concept, and (3) the terms in bilingual lists are considered as static units which are cut from the textual canvas in which they are used. Consequently, many translated texts are illegible or difficult to digest. There is an abundance of foreign terms and terms coined by individuals. Translation seems to be a mere transcoding operation.
There is nothing like Him
Authors: Allaithy Ahmed
Published: January 2019

This paper provides a syntactic, semantic and rhetorical (balāġi) analysis of the term-statement made in the Holy Qur’an 42:11, namely (لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِ شَيْءٌ) ‘laysa ka-mi̱tlihi-šay’un’, which may be loosely translated as ‘There is nothing like Him’ in reference to Allah (God). A method of analysis is established based upon consideration of the syntactic values of the components making up the structure of the term-statement or expression, and how they impact and/or dictate the overall meaning. This method of analysis is aimed to establish a methodology in determining the meaning of Qur’anic terminology in general. Issues involved and therefore, considered, are: the structure and the implications thereof, the concept of God in major religions in general and in Islam as manifested in the Qur’an in particular and the rhetorical aspects involved. Additionally, English translations of this term-statement are contrasted with the Arabic wording in order to determine if a more accurate translation may be reached.

The paper reveals that qur’anic term structure – based on analysis of Q42:11 – incorporates an inherent ‘manual’ outlining how the overall meaning should be derived and determined. This study offers in its conclusion two insightful and original contributions that have been completely overlooked by old as well as modern linguists, Qur’anic exegetes and translators alike. The result, in turn, is the provision of a more accurate English rendition of the Arabic term-statement under investigation. Proper understanding of Qur’anic term structure is bound to lead to better understanding of the Qur’anic message, and, in turn, results in improved translation.
Sufi terminology and aspects of interaction with symbols
Authors: Elyaboudi Khalid , Zahid Abdelhamid , Darir Hassane
Published: January 2019

The Sufi (mystical) experience is characterized by a constant quest for the divine secrets in the universe: the mysteries of life and death, soul and spirit, and the mind and the heart. This experience varies from one ʿĀrif (Gnostic, Sufi Knower) to another according to the relevant pattern of connection between the individual self (al-̱dāt al-fardiyya) of the Sufi and the global self of the supreme monism (al-ḏāt al-kulliyya li al-’uḥadiyya al-ʿulyā).

It is clear that the universe or existence itself provide innumerable symbols and unfathomable signs. It is not surprising then that the Sufi discourse is founded on the ‘symbol’, which is a problematic word whose meaning is hidden in common speech and is, therefore, only grasped by the Sufis. Synonymous with a sign, whose meaning is hidden from a speaker because it is so subtle, it is also synonymous with a ‘hint’.

Symbolism has spread through Sufi poetic and prose writings because it was needed. The Sufi express meanings and psychological sensations which are not within the expressive capacity of language. They long to transfer their experience, but this experience can only be expressed by using a set of symbols that hint but lack clarity.

In this article we address the symbols employed by the Sufis to express their thoughts in translating the set of facts and secrets that Allah revealed to them after a long struggle. We formulate the problematics of this research as follows: How was it possible for the people of the Sufi Order to resort to symbolism, which usually indicates ambiguity and secretiveness, in coining terms to name the concepts and ideas that are inspired to them or that penetrate their inner souls? In this regard, we raise the following questions: Is the symbol a sign? a term? a word? an icon? a signal? a subtlety? a fragment (šaḏara)? a piece of wisdom (ḥikma)? a proverb? a metaphor? or a case of polysemy? Or is it all of this at the same time? What criteria enable Sufi words to contain both symbolic and terminological dimensions? What is the role of context (or pragmatic field) in identifying the essence of the Sufi symbol? How can we uncover the nucleus of the symbol from its external shell? How can we unveil the essence of symbols? What is the best approach to study symbols? Can we reduce symbols to semantic features following Rastier (1987), to highlight their essential meaning and extract their original nucleus? Or is this deconstructive approach useless in our treatment of the multifaceted symbol?

We will consider orientalist approaches (through Louis Massignon’s model) in the study of Sufi terminological systems by identifying their links with Islamic and gnostic origins and considering their modes of transfer into Western languages.
Deletion of Enigma Homologue from the Z-disc slows tension development kinetics in mouse myocardium
Authors: Gregorich Zachery R. , Patel Jitandrakumar R. , Cai Wenxuan , Lin Ziqing , Heurer Rachel , Fitzsimons Daniel P. , Moss Richard L. , Ge Ying
Published: January 2019

Enigma Homologue (ENH) is a component of the Z-disc, a structure that anchors actin filaments in the contractile unit of muscle, the sarcomere. Cardiac-specific ablation of ENH protein expression causes contractile dysfunction that ultimately culminates in dilated cardiomyopathy. However, whether ENH is involved in the regulation of myocardial contractility is unknown. To determine if ENH is required for the mechanical activity of cardiac muscle, we analyze muscle mechanics of isolated trabeculae from the hearts of ENH+/+ and ENH−/− mice. We detected no differences in steady-state mechanical properties but show that when muscle fibers are allowed to relax and then are restretched, the rate at which tension redevelops is depressed in ENH−/− mouse myocardium relative to that in ENH+/+ myocardium. SDS-PAGE analysis demonstrated that the expression of β-myosin heavy chain is increased in ENH−/− mouse myocardium, which could partially, but not completely, account for the depression in tension redevelopment kinetics. Using top-down proteomics analysis, we found that the expression of other thin/thick filament regulatory proteins is unaltered, although the phosphorylation of a cardiac troponin T isoform, cardiac troponin I, and myosin regulatory light chain is decreased in ENH−/− mouse myocardium. Nevertheless, these alterations are very small and thus insufficient to explain slowed tension redevelopment kinetics in ENH−/− mouse myocardium. These data suggest that the ENH protein influences tension redevelopment kinetics in mouse myocardium, possibly by affecting cross-bridge cycling kinetics. Previous studies also indicate that ablation of specific Z-disc proteins in myocardium slows contraction kinetics, which could also be a contributing factor in this study.
Dynamics of solitons for nonlinear quantum walks
Authors: Maeda Masaya , Sasaki Hironobu , Segawa Etsuo , Suzuki Akito , Suzuki Kanako
Published: January 2019

We present some numerical results for nonlinear quantum walks (NLQWs) studied by the authors analytically (Maeda et al 2018 Discrete Contin. Dyn. Syst.
38 3687–3703; Maeda et al 2018 Quantum Inf. Process.
17 215). It was shown that if the nonlinearity is weak, then the long time behavior of NLQWs are approximated by linear quantum walks. In this paper, we observe the linear decay of NLQWs for range of nonlinearity wider than studied in (Maeda et al 2018 Discrete Contin. Dyn. Syst.
38 3687–3703). In addition, we treat the strong nonlinear regime and show that the solitonic behavior of solutions appears. There are several kinds of soliton solutions and the dynamics becomes complicated. However, we see that there are some special cases so that we can calculate explicit form of solutions. In order to understand the nonlinear dynamics, we systematically study the collision between soliton solutions. We can find a relationship between our model and a nonlinear differential equation.
Beyond Interlingual Translation: Transforming History, Corporeality, and Spatiality in Femi Osofisan’s Women of Owu
Authors: Aboluwade Ifeoluwa
Published: January 2019

Building mostly on the seminal works of André Lefevere and Bassnett, recent work carried out in translation studies has problematized extant conceptions of translation and the distinction between various forms of creative rewritings. Similarly, individual scholars such as Katja Krebs and Laurence Raw in the field of adaptation studies have illuminated points of convergence and overlap between translation and adaptation. This article espouses and extends existing studies by explicating the redundancy of the borders constructed between translation and adaptation within the broader framework of Nigerian theatre and performance. Informed by a transdisciplinary approach adapted from multimodal social semiotics and literary studies, the author engages in analysis and close-readings of the play text and stage performance of Femi Osofisan’s Women of Owu (2004/2006) to investigate how translation transcends simple interlingual practice to encompass adaptations of the spatial, temporal and embodied aspects of societies and cultures.
Evidence-Based Abdominoplasty Review With Body Contouring Algorithm
Authors: Rosenfield Lorne K , Davis Christopher R
Published: January 2019

Abdominal contour deformities are an aesthetic challenge to the plastic surgeon. Patients present with diverse clinical histories, multiple comorbidities, and unique aesthetic demands. Weight loss, previous pregnancy, and aging are 3 principal indications for abdominoplasty. Bariatric surgery has increased demand for body contouring procedures. This heterogeneous patient cohort means a “one-size-fits-all” abdominoplasty is not appropriate. Precise evaluation, evidence-based decision-making, and artistic acumen are required while balancing patient goals with safe, realistic, and long-lasting aesthetic outcomes. This article reviews surgical options for abdominal body contouring, providing an evidence-based treatment algorithm for selecting the appropriate procedure for each patient to maximize clinical and patient reported outcomes.
DIABLO: an integrative approach for identifying key molecular drivers from multi-omics assays
Authors: Singh Amrit , Shannon Casey P , Gautier Benoît , Rohart Florian , Vacher Michaël , Tebbutt Scott J , Lê Cao Kim-Anh
Published: January 2019

Motivation

In the continuously expanding omics era, novel computational and statistical strategies are needed for data integration and identification of biomarkers and molecular signatures. We present Data Integration Analysis for Biomarker discovery using Latent cOmponents (DIABLO), a multi-omics integrative method that seeks for common information across different data types through the selection of a subset of molecular features, while discriminating between multiple phenotypic groups.

Results

Using simulations and benchmark multi-omics studies, we show that DIABLO identifies features with superior biological relevance compared with existing unsupervised integrative methods, while achieving predictive performance comparable to state-of-the-art supervised approaches. DIABLO is versatile, allowing for modular-based analyses and cross-over study designs. In two case studies, DIABLO identified both known and novel multi-omics biomarkers consisting of mRNAs, miRNAs, CpGs, proteins and metabolites.

Availability and implementation

DIABLO is implemented in the mixOmics R Bioconductor package with functions for parameters’ choice and visualization to assist in the interpretation of the integrative analyses, along with tutorials on http://mixomics.org and in our Bioconductor vignette.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Ordino: a visual cancer analysis tool for ranking and exploring genes, cell lines and tissue samples
Authors: Streit Marc , Gratzl Samuel , Stitz Holger , Wernitznig Andreas , Zichner Thomas , Haslinger Christian
Published: January 2019

Ordino is a web-based analysis tool for cancer genomics that allows users to flexibly rank, filter and explore genes, cell lines and tissue samples based on pre-loaded data, including The Cancer Genome Atlas, the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia and manually uploaded information. Interactive tabular data visualization that facilitates the user-driven prioritization process forms a core component of Ordino. Detail views of selected items complement the exploration. Findings can be stored, shared and reproduced via the integrated session management.

Availability and implementation

Ordino is publicly available at https://ordino.caleydoapp.org. The source code is released at https://github.com/Caleydo/ordino under the Mozilla Public License 2.0.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
REM sleep behaviour disorder: an early window for prevention in neurodegeneration?
Authors: Weil Rimona S , Morris Huw R
Published: January 2019

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Risk and predictors of dementia and parkinsonism in idiopathic REM sleep behaviour disorder: a multicentre study’ by Postuma et al. (doi:10.1093/brain/awz030).
Harley William Moon (1936–2018)
Authors: Bertschinger Hans U , Duchesnes Christiane J , Mainil Jacques G , Pospischil Andreas , Nagy Béla
Published: January 2019

Harley William Moon,DVM, Ph.D., an outstanding American person and researcher of comparative microbiology and pathology of intestinal diseases, the former director of the USDA, ARS, National Animal Disease Center (Iowa), of Plum Island Animal Disease Center (New York) and of Veterinary Research Institute of Iowa State University, member of the National Academy of Sciences (USA) passed away after some difficult and lonely last years of his life, on October 7, 2018 at the age of 82.
Integrating the scale of population processes into fisheries management, as illustrated in the sandeel, Ammodytes marinus
Authors: Wright P J , Christensen A , Régnier T , Rindorf A , van Deurs M
Published: January 2019

Aggregations of site-attached populations can show marked differences in density due to variation in local productivity and mortality processes. Matching management actions to the scale of biological processes is therefore important for sustainable fisheries management. This study examined the adequacy and appropriate scale of a spatially explicit management regime for sandeel, Ammodytes marinus, in the North Sea. Information from biophysical model simulations of larval transport and otolith chemistry was used to estimate the scale of mixing among aggregations. Together, these approaches indicated that there was negligible exchange of pre-settled sandeel among aggregations >200 km apart. Additionally, a re-analysis of tag-recapture experiments and distribution data indicated that the dispersive range decreased further after settlement. Significant differences in length at maturity and year-class strength not only reflect the limited mixing across the North Sea, but also point to regional differences in productivity and thereby vulnerability to fishing pressure. We conclude that the current management regime comprised of multiple assessment areas enable these differences to be considered in advice on annual fishing quotas.
Likelihood of Smoking Among Cancer Survivors: An Updated Health Information National Trends Survey Analysis
Authors: Swoboda Christine M , Walker Daniel M , Huerta Timothy R
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Cancer survivors are at high risk for cancer reoccurrence, highlighting the importance of managing behavioral risk factors for cancer. Despite this risk, many cancer survivors continue to smoke cigarettes. This article describes the relationship between smoking behavior and demographic and clinical factors in cancer survivors.

Methods

Multinomial logistic regression of cross-sectional data from the Health Information National Trends Survey was conducted using combined data from years 2003, 2005, 2007, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Independent variables included age, cancer history, race, education level, marital status, insurance status, and data year; the dependent variable was smoking status (current vs. former or never).

Results

Cancer survivors were less likely to be current smokers but more likely to be former smokers than those with no history of cancer. Cancer survivors that currently smoked were more likely to have lower education levels, be divorced, separated, or single, or not have health insurance. Older cancer survivors, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic black survivors were less likely to smoke. Among cancer subgroups, prostate cancer survivors had the lowest rate (8.8%) of current smoking from 2011 to 2014, and cervical cancer survivors had the highest rate (31.1%).

Conclusions

Although those with no history of cancer had higher rates of current smoking, many subgroups of cancer survivors continued to smoke at higher rates than average cancer survivors. Cancer survivors that were younger, had lower education levels, were any marital status other than married or widowed, were uninsured, or survived cervical cancer were more likely to be smokers than other survivors.

Implications

It is important to understand which types of cancer survivors are at high risk of continued smoking to better inform tobacco dependence treatment interventions among those at high risk of cancer reoccurrence. Our findings suggest targeted tobacco dependence treatment efforts among cancer survivors should focus on survivors of cervical cancer and survivors that are young, unmarried, uninsured, or have lower education levels.
Head CT overuse in children with a mild traumatic brain injury within two Canadian emergency departments
Authors: Gariepy Martin , Gravel Jocelyn , Légaré France , Melnick Edward R , Hess Erik P , Witteman Holly O , Lelaidier-Hould Lania , Truchon Catherine , Sauvé Louise , Plante Patrick , Le Sage Natalie , Archambault Patrick M
Published: January 2019

Background

The validated Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Network (PECARN) rule helps determine the relevance of a head computerized tomography (CT) for children with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). We sought to estimate the potential overuse of head CT within two Canadian emergency departments (EDs).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children seen in 2016 in a paediatric Level I (site 1) and a general Level II (site 2) trauma centre. We reviewed charts to determine the appropriateness of head CT use according to the PECARN rule in a random subset of children presenting with head trauma. Simple descriptive statistics were applied.

Results

One thousand five hundred and forty-six eligible patients younger than 17 years consulted during the study period. Of the 203 randomly selected cases per setting, 16 (7.9%) and 24 (12%), respectively from sites 1 and 2 had a head CT performed. Based on the PECARN rule, we estimated the overuse for the younger group (<2 years) to be below 3% for both hospitals without significant difference between them. For the older group (≥2 years), the overuse rate was higher at site 2 (9.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.8 to 17% versus 1.2%, 95% CI: 0.2 to 6.5%, P=0.03).

Conclusion

Both EDs demonstrated overuse rates below 10% although it was higher for the older group at site 2. Such low rates can potentially be explained by the university affiliation of both hospitals and by two Canadian organizations working to raise awareness among physicians about the overuse of diagnostic tools and dangers inherent to radiation.
Management of acute loss of asthma control: yellow zone strategies
Authors: Polk Brooke I. , Dinakar Chitra
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

Asthma exacerbations are associated with a significant burden to both the individual patient and to the healthcare system. Patients often step-up home therapies in response to increased asthma symptoms, and the asthma action plan was created to empower patients to self-manage their asthma care. The yellow (intermediate) zone of the asthma action plan is frequently poorly defined, and current Expert Panel Report 3 guideline recommendations are not effective for all patients. This article reviews the evidence behind various recommended yellow zone intervention strategies.

Recent findings

There are many potential methods of delivering yellow zone therapy, and recent studies have assessed preventive efficacy of a scheduled increase in controller medication(s), reliever medication(s), or a symptom-driven combination of both. The literature suggests that, in certain asthma subpopulations, some methods may be more efficacious than others.

Multiple yellow zone approaches may be beneficial, and the yellow zone is not a ‘one size fits all’ narrative.