bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of metal transfer modes on mechanical properties of 3CR12 stainless steel
Authors: Madyira Daniel M. , Kaymakci Abdullah , Nkwanyana Ntokozo
Published: July 2019

The effect of metal transfer modes on mechanical properties of welded 3CR12 stainless steel was investigated. This was achieved by butt welding 10 mm thick plates of 3CR12. The effect of the metal transfer modes on the microstructure and the mechanical properties of the 3CR12 steel was then investigated as it was hypothesized that the change in welding positions will affect the transfer modes partly because of gravity. The microscopic examination revealed that the substrate was characterized by dual phase microstructure. Using the spectroscopic examination results, the ferritic factor calculation had shown that the microstructure was expected to be ferritic–martensitic during air cooling process. The tensile strength and Charpy impact energy were measured to be 498 MPa and 102 J, respectively. The heat input in the material was observed to be greater than 1 kJ/mm, which is the limiting factor for grain growth. Grain growths were observed in the heat affected zone of the welded materials. Ferritic–martensitic microstructure was observed in the microstructure. The grain growth altered the mechanical properties of the test material. Globular down hand had higher mechanical properties than spray down hand. Globular vertical up had better mechanical properties than globular vertical down.
Die stress analysis and improvement of the welding valve fastener in multi-stage forging
Authors: Tzou Gow-Yi , Lin Shih-Hsien , Chen Dyi-Cheng , Chai Un-Chin
Published: July 2019

This study explores the multi-stage cold forming die of a welding valve fastener using simulation software. It is possible to understand the various stress intensities of the die core bore and the corresponding distributions during each forging stage so as to improve the service life of the die. These stresses include radial stress, axial stress, hoop stress, and maximum principal stress, as well as the different types of stresses that could cause different fractures of the die core. Therefore, it is necessary to use different die design methods to improve the fracture issues for different die cores. For example, shrink fit can be used between the die core and die case. By adjusting the size of the shrink fit, tensile hoop stress can be converted into compressive hoop stress, which can avoid the generation of axial cracking of the die during the forging formation. In addition, drastic changes in axial stress caused by the stress concentration on the die core can yield a transverse crack of the die core. Thus adopting preventative measures by split such a stress concentration into two sections reduces the drastic changes in axial stress on that section.
A Note on the Steinerk-Diameter of Tensor Product Networks
Authors: Arunandhi Pranav , Cheng Eddie , Melekian Christopher
Published: August 2019

Given a graph [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], the Steiner distance [Formula: see text] is the minimum size among all connected subgraphs of [Formula: see text] whose vertex sets contain [Formula: see text]. The Steiner [Formula: see text]-diameter [Formula: see text] is the maximum value of [Formula: see text] among all sets of [Formula: see text] vertices. In this short note, we study the Steiner [Formula: see text]-diameters of the tensor product of complete graphs.
Increasing Robustness by Reallocating the Margins in the Timetable
Authors: Meng Lingyun , Muneeb Abid Malik , Jiang Xinguo , Khattak Afaq , Babar Khan Muhammad
Published: July 2019

It is a common practice to improve the punctuality of a railway service by the addition of time margins during the planning process of a timetable. Due to the capacity constraints of the railway network, a limited amount of time margins can be inserted. The paper presents a model and heuristic technique to find the better position for the limited amount of time margins (headway buffers and running time supplements) in a train timetable. The aim of reallocating the time margins is to adjust an existing timetable to minimize the sum of train delays at the event of the operational disturbances. The model consists of two basic parts. Firstly, the paper treats the train timetable as a Directed Arc Graph (DAG) with the aggregation concept and proposes a heuristic technique known as Critical Time Margins Allocation (CTMA), which is based on the critical path method (CPM), to reallocate the time margins. Secondly, the paper evaluates the original and modified timetable under different disturbed situations. The case study is developed on a hypothetical small railway network and a practical timetable of single-line train timetable for the track segment of Rawalpindi to Lalamusa, Pakistan. The results show that the timetable modified with the CTMA reduces the total delay time by an average of 3.25% for the small railway network and 5.18% for the large dataset. It suggests that adding the time supplements to the proper positions in a timetable can reduce the delay propagation and increase the robustness of the timetable.
Significance of Anti-TPO as an Early Predictive Marker in Thyroid Disease
Authors: Siriwardhane Thushani , Krishna Karthik , Ranganathan Vinodh , Jayaraman Vasanth , Wang Tianhao , Bei Kang , Ashman Sarah , Rajasekaran Karenah , Rajasekaran John J. , Krishnamurthy Hari
Published: July 2019

Even though most thyroid subjects are undiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms, universal screening for thyroid disease is not recommended for the general population. In this study, our motive is to showcase the early appearance of thyroid autoantibody, anti-TPO, prior to the onset of thyroid hormone disruption; hence the addition of anti-TPO in conjunction with traditional thyroid markers TSH and FT4 would aid to reduce the long-term morbidity and associated health concerns. Here, a total of 4581 subjects were tested multiple times for TSH, FT4, anti-TPO, and anti-Tg and followed up for 2 years. We streamlined our subjects into two groups, A1 (euthyroid at first visit, but converted to subclinical/overt hypothyroidism in follow-up visits) and A2 (euthyroid at first visit, but converted to hyperthyroidism in follow-up visits). According to our results, 73% of hypothyroid subjects (from group A1) and 68.6% of hyperthyroid subjects (from group A2) had anti-TPO 252 (±33) and 277 (±151) days prior to the onset of the thyroid dysfunction, respectively. Both subclinical/overt hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism showed a significantly higher percentage of subjects who had anti-TPO prior to the onset of thyroid dysfunction compared to the combined control group. However, there was no significant difference in the subjects who had anti-Tg earlier than the control group. Further assessment showed that only anti-TPO could be used as a standalone marker but not anti-Tg. Our results showcase that anti-TPO appear prior to the onset of thyroid hormone dysfunction; hence testing anti-TPO in conjunction with TSH would greatly aid to identify potentially risk individuals and prevent long-term morbidity.
A Method to Solve the Stiffness of Double‐Row Tapered Roller Bearing
Authors: Zhang Henghai , Shi Wenku , Liu Guozheng , Chen Zhiyong
Published: July 2019

By analyzing the roller force, the nonlinear stiffness model of the double‐row tapered roller hub bearing is derived, and the method of solving the hub bearing stiffness matrix is summarized: if the displacement between the inner and outer rings is known, the stiffness of the hub bearing can be directly calculated. If only the external load of the hub bearing is known, the displacement of the hub bearing needs to be solved by numerical method, and then the stiffness of the hub bearing can be calculated. The improved Newton‐Raphson method is used to solve the stiffness matrix of the hub bearing. Three‐dimensional FE model of DRTRBs is presented and validated the proposed the stiffness matrix of the hub bearing. It is found that the radial stiffness of the hub bearing is greater than the axial stiffness. The stiffness of the hub bearing is greatly affected by the vertical force of the ground and the wheel driving torque, showing obvious nonlinearity. The smaller the vertical ground load and wheel driving torque, the greater the influence of vertical ground load and wheel driving torque on the hub bearing stiffness.
Construction Process Simulation and In Situ Monitoring of Dendritic Structure on Nanjing Niushou Mountain
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Yu Shaole , Zhang Xuewei , Yan Junsheng , Chen Xinxi
Published: July 2019

For complex structures, where there are great differences between the structural form in the construction process and the design forming state, mechanical analysis of the construction process is required. The dendritic structure on Nanjing Niushou Mountain is taken as an engineering case study, with a narrow construction space, weak construction platform, and difficulty in setting the equipment in the site. A new construction method, self‐balancing elevating scheme, is introduced according to the special condition of the construction field. The lifting frame and the connection joint between the trunk and the branch employed in the self‐balancing elevating scheme are optimized according to the structure’s behavior. A construction monitoring scheme was adopted in this project to ensure construction safety. The maximum cable force and deformation occurred at the beginning of the lifting. The construction process simulation was conducted by space structure design software 3D3S. The analysis results were well consistent with the in situ construction monitoring results. The analysis results show that the self‐balancing elevating scheme could satisfy the construction requirement on the special construction condition and provide reference on future practical application.
Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) Combined with Sorafenib in Treatment of HBV Background Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Yuan Jia , Yin Xin , Tang Bei , Ma Hui , Zhang Lan , Li Lixin , Chen Rongxin , Xie Xiaoying , Ren Zhenggang
Published: July 2019

Objectives. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) remains a challenge in management. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been used for patients with PVTT but efficiency was limited with a median overall survival of 4 to 6.1 months. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of TACE combined with sorafenib in HBV background HCC with PVTT. Methods. A total of 498 patients were enrolled in the study including 69 patients who received TACE combined with sorafenib and 429 patients treated with TACE alone between January 1st, 2008, and April 30st, 2014. Using the 1:2 propensity score matching, 138 well-balanced patients were enrolled. Overall survival (OS) was compared between the two groups. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate the OS, and the differences between groups were analyzed with a log-rank test. Results. TACE combined with sorafenib improved the OS of the patients compared with TACE alone (13.0 vs 6.0 months, p<0.001). After propensity score matching, the median OS of combination therapy and TACE were 13.0 and 7.0 months, respectively (p=0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the patients younger than 60 years old, male patients, AFP more than 400ng/ml, tumor size more than 5cm, or type III/IV PVTT had OS benefits from TACE combined with sorafenib. Conclusions. Compared with TACE therapy alone, TACE combined with sorafenib could improve OS in HBV background HCC patients with PVTT. The patients who are younger, male, or with more tumor burden may benefit more from combination therapy.
Correlated Resting-State Functional MRI Activity of Frontostriatal, Thalamic, Temporal, and Cerebellar Brain Regions Differentiates Stroke Survivors with High Compared to Low Depressive Symptom Scores
Authors: Goodin Peter , Lamp Gemma , Vidyasagar Rishma , Connelly Alan , Rose Stephen , Campbell Bruce C. V. , Tse Tamara , Ma Henry , Howells David , Hankey Graeme J. , Davis Stephen , Donnan Geoffrey , Carey Leeanne M.
Published: July 2019

Background.One in three survivors of stroke experience poststroke depression (PSD). PSD has been linked with poorer recovery of function and cognition, yet our understanding of potential mechanisms is currently limited. Alterations in resting-state functional MRI have been investigated to a limited extent. Fluctuations in low frequency signal are reported, but it is unknown if interactions are present between the level of depressive symptom score and intrinsic brain activity in varying brain regions.Objective.To investigate potential interaction effects between whole-brain resting-state activity and depressive symptoms in stroke survivors with low and high levels of depressive symptoms.Methods.A cross-sectional analysis of 63 stroke survivors who were assessed at 3 months poststroke for depression, using the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MÅDRS-SIGMA), and for brain activity using fMRI. A MÅDRS-SIGMA score of >8 was classified as high depressive symptoms. Fractional amplitude of frequency fluctuations (fALFF) data across three frequency bands (broadband, i.e., ~0.01–0.08; subbands, i.e., slow-5: ~0.01–0.027 Hz, slow-4: 0.027–0.07) was examined.Results.Of the 63 stroke survivors, 38 were classified as “low-depressive symptoms” and 25 as “high depressive symptoms.” Six had a past history of depression. We found interaction effects across frequency bands in several brain regions that differentiated the two groups. The broadband analysis revealed interaction effects in the left insula and the left superior temporal lobe. The subband analysis showed contrasting fALFF response between the two groups in the left thalamus, right caudate, and left cerebellum. Across the three frequency bands, we found contrasting fALFF response in areas within the fronto-limbic-thalamic network and cerebellum.Conclusions.We provide evidence that fALFF is sensitive to changes in poststroke depressive symptom severity and implicates frontostriatal and cerebellar regions, consistent with previous studies. The use of multiband analysis could be an effective method to examine neural correlates of depression after stroke. The START-PrePARE trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, numberACTRN12610000987066.
Influence of Draft Gear Modeling on Dynamics Simulation for Heavy‐Haul Train
Authors: Lei Cheng , Liu Jia , Dong Lisheng , Ma Weihua
Published: July 2019

In order to study the impedance characteristics of the frictional draft gear, MT‐2 draft gear is studied, and its mechanical properties are analyzed firstly. Then, the mathematical models of two common draft gears are established based on the data collected from the vehicle impact test, and the effects of the two modeling methods on the simulation results are compared through the shunting impact test and the bench test simulation. Researches show that, under various experimental conditions, the simulated draft gear characteristic curve of the lookup table model moves along a fixed trajectory regardless of the change rate of the draft gear stroke, while simulation results of the wedge‐spring model depend on the change rate of the draft gear stroke and are more consistent with the experimental results, reflecting the dynamic characteristics of the draft gear and suggesting better adaptability and wider application. Finally, the “1 + 1” grouped 20,000‐ton heavy‐haul combined train model is established, with its draft gear characteristics under the full‐braking condition on flat straight track analyzed. Calculation results and test results of the lookup table model and the wedge‐spring model are compared, indicating that using the wedge‐spring model to calculate the longitudinal dynamics performance is more accurate. The influence of the modeling on the longitudinal impulse simulation of the train after air braking is also studied, revealing that the variation trends of the coupler force curves of two models are basically the same, but the amplitude and frequency of the longitudinal impulse are different.
Bta-miR-124a Affects Lipid Metabolism by Regulating PECR Gene
Authors: Shen Binglei , Yang Zhuonina , Han Shuo , Zou Ziwen , Liu Juan , Nie Lian , Dong Wentao , Li E. , Liu Shengjun , Zhao Zhihui , Wu Rui
Published: July 2019

According to our previous studies, bta-miR-124a was differentially expressed in breast tissue between high-fat and low-fat dairy cows. However, the function of bta-miR-124a in lipid metabolism of dairy cows and the identification of its target genes have not been reported. Therefore, this study will identify the target gene of bta-miR-124a and explore its role in the regulation of milk lipid metabolism. First, preliminary bioinformatics prediction of bta-miR-124a candidate target genes was performed, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze relative expression changes of bta-miR-124a and its candidate target genes and the expression level of the downstream gene of the target gene in the lipid metabolism signaling pathway in dairy mammary epithelial cell lines (Mac-T), using the dual luciferase reporter system for the identification of the targeting relationship between bta-miR-124a and the candidate target gene. Then, the effect of transfection of bta-miR-124a mimics and inhibitors on triglyceride (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) levels was analyzed. The results indicate that bta-miR-124a directly interacts with the 3′-untranslated region of peroxisomal trans-2-enoyl-CoA reductase (PECR) to downregulate its expression in Mac-T cells. Further, bta-mir-124a regulates the expression of PECR and the downstream gene extension of very long chain fatty acid protein 2 (ELOVL2) through an unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis signaling pathway. In conclusion, bta-miR-124a is involved in lipid metabolism by directly downregulating the PECR gene and affecting the expression of the downstream gene ELOVL2 and regulates the content of some key secretory elements such as TG and FFA. The function of bta-miR-124a has a certain effect on the synthesis and secretion of milk fat in the mammary epithelial cells of dairy cows.
Mechanism of Dynamic Failure in Roadways with Thick and Competent Roof Strata: A Case Study
Authors: Guo Jinshuai , Ma Liqiang , Ju Feng , Zhang Chengguo , Wang Fangtian , Guo Shuai
Published: July 2019

Rock and coal dynamic failures have a higher chance to occur when thick and competent roof strata are presented, which can build up a high level of energy. This paper studied the fracturing characteristics of the competent roof strata during longwall face retreat and their effects on roadways’ stability to gain an improved understanding of the rock dynamic failure occurred in roadways as well as the associated ground controls. The results indicated that the main reason of dynamic failure in roadways was the structural change of lateral main roof over a chain pillar, which transformed from the cantilever beam in the period of primary mining impact (PMI) to the triangular arch in the period of secondary mining impact (SMI). Based on corresponding mechanical models developed for the lateral main roof over the chain pillar, it was calculated that the force on roadways’ roof in the period of SMI was 3.7 times larger than that in the period of PMI. Then, the dynamic failure control method of increasing the chain pillar width was proposed. The stress distribution and deformation of roadways with different chain pillar widths were simulated using FLAC3D. The results indicate that as the pillar width increases, the influence of secondary mining on roadways’ stability decreases, and a threshold of not less than 30 m pillar width was suggested. The outcomes of this study would provide guidance for the design of chain pillars where thick and competent roof strata are presented.
Localized Biphasic Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma with Rhabdoid Features Involving the Liver: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hassan Dalal , Ligato Saverio
Published: July 2019

Introduction. Localized malignant mesotheliomas, defined as sharply circumscribed tumors of the serosal membrane with the microscopic appearance of diffuse malignant mesothelioma, are rare tumors; their behavior and prognosis are uncertain. Intrahepatic mesotheliomas are postulated to arise from mesothelial cells of Glisson’s capsule.Case Presentation. A 69-year-old female with no history of asbestos exposure presented with a one-month history of increasing abdominal pain associated with constitutional symptoms. Computerized Tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed a sizable soft tissue mass within the right paracolic gutter, abutting the inferior hepatic margin, the lateral abdominal wall, and descending colon. Ultrasound-guided biopsy of the mass suggested a poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma. There was no disease elsewhere on PET scan. Surgical resection of the mass was performed. Pathological assessment suggested the tumor to be arising from the liver with invasion of the liver, abdominal wall musculature, and the adventitial surface of the ascending colon. A final diagnosis of localized biphasic malignant peritoneal mesothelioma with rhabdoid features was rendered based on morphology and the result of immunohistochemical studies. The abdominal wall margin was positive. The patient progressed over the course of 6 months despite receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy with metastases and a decline in performance status and was transitioned to hospice.Conclusion. Localized malignant peritoneal mesotheliomas are rare tumors that may present clinically as a liver mass and simulate primary hepatic or secondary tumors. Definitive diagnosis is obtained by surgical resection in most cases. The clinical outcome is variable with most cases having a poor outcome.
Simulation Study on the Dynamic Ventilation Control of Single Head Roadway in High‐Altitude Mine Based on Thermal Comfort
Authors: Nie Xingxin , Feng Shanshan , Shudu Zhang , Quan Gan
Published: July 2019

Dynamic ventilation control based on the concept of thermal comfort is proposed and applied to single head roadway in high‐altitude gold mine in Qinghai. Hourly thermal comfort values are determined for typical working conditions, and a thermal comfort curve is generated. The values are adjusted based on the external environment and the changes in the miners’ thermal comfort. The Fluent software is used to simulate the temperature field and wind speed field of the tunnel roadway at three heights, and the results are used to fit the thermal comfort curve in the roadway. The results show that the thermal comfort is lowest at a roadway height of 1 m and a longitudinal length of 16 m because the wind speed is the highest and the temperature is lowest at these locations. When the dynamic ventilation control is used, the optimal thermal comfort levels can be determined for the locations in the single head roadway.
Milk Safety Assessment, Isolation, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Staphylococcus aureus in Selected Dairy Farms of Mukaturi and Sululta Town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Regasa Sema , Mengistu Shimelis , Abraha Ashebr
Published: July 2019

A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in raw milk and swab, to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility profile, milk handling practice, and its associated risk factors in selected dairy farms of Mukaturi and Sululta Town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. A total of 247 samples collected from dairy farms were examined using standard microbiological techniques. The antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of the isolates were also investigated. The possible risk factors for Staphylococcus aureus contaminations in milk were evaluated through a structured questionnaire. Overall, 16.6% (n= 41) of the samples were positive for S. aureus. The prevalence of S. aureus was 15.3% from udder milk and 25%, 20%, and 10% from milkers’ hand, milking bucket, and drying towel swab, respectively. The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in milk showed statistically significant variation with respect to age (p≤ 0.001), parity (P≤ 0.001), drainage condition of milking area (P=0.035), study sites (P=0.035), and management system (P=0.035). Majority of the isolates were found resistant to penicillin G (97.6%) and amoxicillin (43.9%). According to this study, 12/28(42.9%) Staphylococcus aureus positive raw milk samples had 104-105cfu/ml S. aureus count, which is above the recommended level for human consumption. 47.1% of milking persons store milk at room temperature temporarily (between 6 and 12 hrs) till transport to collection center with no means of cooling aid. From consumers 25.6% had no health risk associated with raw milk consumption or aware of milk borne disease associated with drinking raw milk. Thus, 60.5% of milk users had habit of raw milk consumption. The study revealed a prevalence of S. aureus, poor milk handling practices, raw milk consumption behavior in study area. Proper handling and hygiene decrease milk contamination by S. aureus and make it safe for human consumption.
A New Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm to Solve the Periodic Capacitated Arc Routing Problem with Continuous Moves
Authors: Batista Guilherme V. , Scarpin Cassius T. , Pécora José E. , Ruiz Angel
Published: July 2019

This paper describes a variant of the Periodic Capacitated Arc Routing Problem for inspections in a railroad network. Inspections are performed by vehicles over a time horizon on which some stretches need evaluation more frequently than others due to its use. Each car can evaluate one stretch per day without being attached to a depot; at each day, the shift may start and end at different locations. This characterizes the problem as the Periodic Capacitated Arc Routing Problem with Continuous Moves in which firstly the delays on attendances are minimized and, second, the displacement costs. We present a mathematical model and an Ant Colony Optimization algorithm to solve the problem. The use of a local search procedure and some principles of Granular Tabu Search is crucial for the algorithm’s performance. The numerical results are promising, especially for critical situations where the arcs’ needs are close to the total vehicles’ capacity.
Polymorphisms in Survivin (BIRC5 Gene) Are Associated with Age of Onset in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Sušac Ilona , Ozretić Petar , Gregorić Maja , Levačić Cvok Mirela , Sabol Maja , Levanat Sonja , Trnski Diana , Eljuga Domagoj , Seiwerth Sven , Aralica Gorana , Stanec Mladen , Musani Vesna
Published: July 2019

Survivin, encoded by BIRC5 gene (baculoviral IAP repeat containing 5), belongs to the family of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs). In mammalian cells it participates in the control of mitosis, apoptosis regulation, and cellular stress response. Its expression is increased in almost all types of cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of BIRC5 polymorphisms in breast cancer (BC) and to connect survivin expression with various clinicopathological characteristics of BC patients. Blood and archival tumour tissue samples were collected from 26 BC patients from Croatia. Survivin expression was determined immunohistochemically. BIRC5 promoter, coding region, and 3’UTR were genotyped. DNA from 74 healthy women was used as control. BIRC5 polymorphisms and survivin expression were tested against age of onset, histological grade, tumour type and size, lymph node status, oestrogen, progesterone, Her2, and Ki67 status. Numbers of samples with weak, moderate, and strong survivin expression were 9 (33.3%), 11 (40.7%), and 7 (25.9%), respectively. Most patients had nuclear survivin staining (92.6%). High survivin expression was significantly associated with negative oestrogen receptor status (p=0.007) and positive Ki67 expression (p=0.032). Ki67 expression was also positively correlated with histological grade (p=0.0009). Fourteen polymorphisms were found in BC samples, located mostly in promoter and 3’UTR of BIRC5. There was no significant difference in the distribution of polymorphisms between BC and control samples. Among clinicopathological characteristics of BC patients, alleles of five BIRC5 polymorphisms were associated with younger age of onset: c.-644T>C (55.8 years [y] vs. 48.1 y; p=0.006), c.-241C>T (54.2 y vs. 45.0; p=0.029), c.9809T>C (55.8 y vs. 48.1 y; p=0.006), c.-1547C>T (58.3 y vs. 50.9 y; p=0.011), and c.9386T>C (50.8 y vs. 59.5 y; p=0.004). To assess the significance of BIRC5 polymorphisms and survivin expression as predictive and prognostic biomarkers for BC further research with a larger sample size is needed.
Seaweed Supplementation Enhances Maximal Muscular Strength and Attenuates Resistance Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress in Rats
Authors: Korivi Mallikarjuna , Chen Chun-Tai , Yu Szu-Hsien , Ye Weibing , Cheng I-Shiung , Chang Jhong-Sin , Kuo Chia-Hua , Hou Chien-Wen
Published: July 2019

We investigated the effect of chronic seaweed (Gracilaria asiatica) supplementation on maximal carrying capacity, muscle mass, and oxidative stress in rats following high-intensity resistance exercise (RE). Forty Sprague-Daley rats were equally categorized into control, exercise, seaweed, and exercise plus seaweed (ES) groups. Rats in respective groups performed RE (once per 2 days) or received seaweed (250 mg/kg bodyweight, orally) for 10 weeks. Results showed that seaweed consumption in combination with RE significantly (p < 0.05) increased maximal weight carrying capacity compared to RE alone. FHL muscle mass was significantly higher in both exercise and ES groups. Notably, high-intensity RE-induced lipid peroxidation, as evidenced by elevated thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in muscle, was substantially diminished (p < 0.05) by seaweed treatment. This antioxidative effect of seaweed was further represented by augmented superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels in seaweed groups. We noticed increased insulin concentrations and HOMA-IR, while the fasting blood glucose levels remained stable in seaweed and ES groups. Our findings conclude that seaweed in combination with RE enhanced maximal carrying strength and attenuated oxidative stress through improved antioxidant capacity. Seaweed could be a potential nutritional supplement to boost performance and to prevent exercise-induced muscle damage.
Characterization of Roman and Arabic Mural Paintings of the Archaeological Site of Cercadilla (Cordoba, Spain)
Authors: Gil-Torrano Andrea , Gómez-Morón Auxiliadora , Martín José María , Ortiz Rocío , Fuertes Santos Mª del Camino , Ortiz Pilar
Published: July 2019

The archaeological site of Cercadilla (Cordoba, Spain) includes a complete chronological sequence from the 3rd to 12th centuries. The most relevant monument is a Roman palace dated between the end of the 3rd century and the beginning of the 4th century AD. It is believed that it was the headquarters of the Emperor Maximiano Herculeo. A bathtub with mural paintings has been found in the thermal zone of the palace. Regarding the occupation of the archaeological site in the medieval period, it should be pointed out that two houses with mural paintings were found; these belong to the Caliphal era (10th-11th centuries). During the Caliphal era, the archaeological site was mostly occupied by one of the large suburbs surrounding the walled city. Cercadilla was gradually abandoned; this process starts at the beginning of the 11th century. This study is focused on the analysis of pigments and preparatory layers of red and white mural paintings of the Roman period in the bath zone and on the analysis of pigments in mural paintings in two houses of the Caliphal era. In the thermal zone, the walls have a white mural painting with vertical and horizontal red bands, while the walls in the two Caliphal houses present the red mural painting decorated with white stripes. Techniques such as Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy in combination with Energy Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis (SEM-EDX), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), micro X-ray Diffraction (μ-XRD), Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WD-XRF), and Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) have been used to study the mural paintings of this archaeological site. The results allowed to determine the composition of the materials used and to understand the differences between the technologies employed in Roman and Caliphal remains studied.
Breast Tumor Detection and Classification Using Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Hyperspectral Imaging Techniques
Authors: Chan Si-Wa , Chang Yung-Chieh , Huang Po-Wen , Ouyang Yen-Chieh , Chang Yu-Tzu , Chang Ruey-Feng , Chai Jyh-Wen , Chen Clayton Chi-Chang , Chen Hsian-Min , Chang Chein-I. , Lin Chin-Yao
Published: July 2019

Breast cancer is a main cause of disease and death for women globally. Because of the limitations of traditional mammography and ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has gradually become an important radiological method for breast cancer assessment over the past decades. MRI is free of the problems related to radiation exposure and provides excellent image resolution and contrast. However, a disadvantage is the injection of contrast agent, which is toxic for some patients (such as patients with chronic renal disease or pregnant and lactating women). Recent findings of gadolinium deposits in the brain are also a concern. To address these issues, this paper develops an intravoxel incoherent motion- (IVIM-) MRI-based histogram analysis approach, which takes advantage of several hyperspectral techniques, such as the band expansion process (BEP), to expand a multispectral image to hyperspectral images and create an automatic target generation process (ATGP). After automatically finding suspected targets, further detection was attained by using kernel constrained energy minimization (KCEM). A decision tree and histogram analysis were applied to classify breast tissue via quantitative analysis for detected lesions, which were used to distinguish between three categories of breast tissue: malignant tumors (i.e., central and peripheral zone), cysts, and normal breast tissues. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed IVIM-MRI-based histogram analysis approach can effectively differentiate between these three breast tissue types.
Three-Dimensional Localization Algorithm of WSN Nodes Based on RSSI-TOA and Single Mobile Anchor Node
Authors: Zhang Lieping , Yang Zhenyu , Zhang Shenglan , Yang Huanhuan
Published: July 2019

Aimed at the shortcomings of low localization accuracy of the fixed multianchor method, a three-dimensional localization algorithm for wireless sensor network nodes is proposed in this paper, which combines received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and time of arrival (TOA) ranging information and single mobile anchor node. A mobile anchor node was introduced in the proposed three-dimensional localization algorithm for wireless sensor networks firstly, and the mobile anchor node moves according to the Gauss–Markov three-dimensional mobility model. Then, based on the idea of using RSSI ranging in the near end and TOA ranging in the far end, a ranging method combining RSSI and TOA ranging information is proposed to obtain the precise distance between the anchor node and the unknown node. Finally, the maximum-likelihood estimation method is used to estimate the position of unknown nodes based on the obtained ranging values. The MATLAB simulation results show that the proposed algorithm had a higher localization accuracy and lower localization energy consumption compared with the traditional RSSI localization method or TOA localization method.
Durability Studies on the Recycled Aggregate Concrete in China over the Past Decade: A Review
Authors: Ma Zhiming , Tang Qin , Yang Dingyi , Ba Guangzhong
Published: July 2019

Since China hosted the Olympic Games in 2008, a mass of construction and demolition (C&D) wastes were produced with the rapid urbanization construction. Recycling the C&D waste into recycled aggregates (RA) is an effective method for reducing the amount of C&D wastes. Many studies on the properties of RA and the durability of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) were conducted in China over the past decade. Due to the restrictions of various languages, some valuable studies on the durability of RAC are hard to be acquired by the scholars around the world. Therefore, this paper is developed to review the studies on the durability of RAC in China, and the shrinkage behavior, chloride permeability, carbonation behavior, and freeze‐thaw resistance of RAC are, respectively, introduced. Considering the waste concrete, bricks, and ceramics used in preparing RA are frequently mixed together in China, this study proposes an index of average water absorption rate to quantify the effects of RA types, quality, and replacement percentages on the durability of RAC. Meanwhile, the relationship between the average water absorption rate of RA and the durability parameters of RAC is established. Finally, the improving methods of RAC durability are introduced, and the RA particle shaping and carbonation modification are emphasized.
Varicella Zoster Meningitis, Optic Neuritis Preceding the Development of Posterior Outer Retinal Necrosis, and Central Retinal Artery Occlusion in a HIV Patient
Authors: Gunturu Manasa , Gosi Shiva Kumar , Kanduri Swetha , Garla Vishnu
Published: July 2019

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) has been known to cause various eye disorders in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. We present a case of a forty-nine-year-old female patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) who presented with headache, fever, and blurred vision. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was consistent with VZV meningitis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed enhancement of the right optic nerve indicative of optic neuritis. She responded well to acyclovir and steroids and discharged on the same. Four weeks after discharge, she presented with sudden onset blindness in the left eye. A cerebral angiogram revealed left retinal artery occlusion and was treated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Funduscopic examination showed patchy areas of necrosis in the periphery which were rapidly progressive, diagnostic of posterior outer retinal necrosis (PORN). She was started on ganciclovir and cidofovir and experienced significant improvement in her visual acuity.
Risk Factors for Residual Vitreous Cortex at the Fovea after Posterior Vitreous Detachment during Vitrectomy in Ocular Trauma
Authors: Wang Anan , Zhao Zhenquan , Xu Qihua , Wang Yaohua , Liao Hongfei
Published: July 2019

Purpose. To investigate the frequency and patterns of the residual vitreous cortex (RVC) at the fovea after posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) during vitrectomy after ocular trauma and the risk factors associated with its occurrence. Methods. A cross-sectional, multicenter, and observational study was conducted in 72 consecutive patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy after ocular trauma. In patients with PVD after vitrectomy, RVC patterns were visualized using triamcinolone acetonide staining and were classified as diffuse or focal. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between RVC and various factors, such as the patient’s age, preoperative visual acuity, days after injury, the existence of spontaneous PVD, and the type of injury prior to vitrectomy. Results. Of the 72 eyes with trauma, 35 eyes (48.6%) showed RVC on the macula, of which 19 (54.3%) were of the diffuse type and 16 (45.7%) were of the focal type. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR = 0.933, P=0.025) and days after injury (OR = 0.862, P=0.013) had a significant impact on RVC. Conclusions. RVC at the fovea is very common after spontaneous or surgical PVD during vitrectomy. Younger patients are more likely to show RVC if vitrectomy is performed soon after injury.
Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control for Complex Energy System with Large‐Scale Wind Power
Authors: Shen Yang-Wu , Yuan Jin-Rong , Shen Fei-Fan , Xu Jia-Zhu , Li Chen-Kun , Wang Ding
Published: July 2019

Complex energy systems can effectively integrate renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power into the information network and coordinate the operation of renewable energy sources to ensure its reliability. In the voltage source converter‐based high voltage direct current system, the traditional vector control strategy faces some challenges, such as difficulty in PI parameters tuning and multiobjective optimizations. To overcome these issues, a finite control set model predictive control‐based advanced control strategy is proposed. Based on the discrete mathematical model of the grid‐side voltage source converter, the proposed strategy optimizes a value function with errors of current magnitudes to predict switching status of the grid‐side converter. Moreover, the abilities of the system in resisting disturbances and fault recovery are enhanced by compensating delay and introducing weight coefficients. The complex energy system in which the wind power is delivered by the voltage source converter‐based high voltage direct current system is modeled by Simulink and simulation results show that the proposed strategy is superior to the tradition PI control strategy under various situations, such as wind power fluctuation and fault occurrences.
Application of a Viscoelastic Model to Creep Settlement of High‐Fill Embankments
Authors: Jia Liang , Huang Guangli
Published: July 2019

In order to predict the creep settlement of high‐fill embankments, the time‐dependent viscoelastic model of Poynting–Thomson (the standard linear solid) has been chosen to represent the creep behavior of soils. In the present study, the hereditary integral was applied to calculate the strain while the load increase is varied with time. Calculation expressions of the creep settlement of an embankment during and after construction were obtained under one‐dimensional compression conditions. Using this approach, the three parameters of every layer can be determined and adjusted to accommodate in situ monitoring data. The calculated results agreed well with those from the field, which imply that the method proposed in this paper can give a precise prediction of creep settlement of high‐fill embankments.
Recommendation of Suitable Loading Waveforms and Wavelength Equations for Dynamic Modulus Based on Measured Wheel Loads
Authors: Dai Xiongwei , Hu Xiaodi , Gao Ying
Published: July 2019

Dynamic modulus is a key parameter in the pavement structure design and analysis. A haversine loading waveform is the most widely recommended waveform in the laboratory to obtain the dynamic modulus of asphalt mixtures by test protocols, which may not completely represent all field loading conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate the suitable vertical compressive stress pulse waveforms at different depths under different pavement structures and to obtain the best fitting waveforms by using the least squares method. Specifically, the vertical compressive stress of different pavement structures was calculated by utilizing a three-dimensional finite element program incorporating with the measured wheel loads. The results revealed that the vertical stress pulse waveforms at different depths in asphalt layer were different within different pavement structure combinations. Generally, the square waveform fitted the vertical stress pulse waveform better for the shallow depth of the surface layer. The haversine waveform became more suitable while the depth increased. The bell waveform was better when the depth went deeper (i.e., 10 cm). In addition, the method of choosing waveforms at different depths of different pavement structures was provided, and the equation of calculating wavelength was recommended. Moreover, dynamic modulus under different loading waveforms were analysed through laboratory test, and the process for obtaining dynamic modulus of asphalt layer in any depth was presented.
Biodegradation of Atrazine by the NovelKlebsiella variicolaStrain FH-1
Authors: Zhang Jinpeng , Liang Shuang , Wang Xinhong , Lu Zhongbin , Sun Peng , Zhang Hao , Sun Fengjie
Published: July 2019

Bacterial strain FH-1 with high efficiency of degrading Atrazine is separated by means of enrichment culture from the soil applied with Atrazine for many years. FH-1, recognized asKlebsiella variicolabased on phylogenetic analysis of 16S rDNA sequences, can grow with Atrazine which is the sole nitrogen source. In fluid inorganic salt medium, the optimal degradation temperature, pH value, and initial concentration of Atrazine are 25°C, 9.0, and 50 mg L–1, respectively, and the degradation rate of Atrazine by strain FH-1 reached 81.5% in 11 d of culture. The degrading process conforms to the kinetics equation of pesticide degradation. Among the metal ions tested, Zn2+(0.2 mM) has the most significant effect of facilitation on the degradation of Atrazine. In the fluid medium with Zn2+, the degradation rate of Atrazine is increased to 72.5%, while the Cu2+(0.2 mM) inhibits the degradation of Atrazine. The degradation products of Atrazine by strain FH-1 were identified as HEIT (2-hydroxyl-4-ethylamino-6-isopropylamino-1,3,5-triazine), MEET (2-hydroxyl-4,6-bis(ethylamino)-1,3,5-triazine), and AEEO (4,6-bis(ethylamino)-1,3,5-triazin-2(1H)-one) by HPLC-MS/MS. Three genes (atzC,trzN, andtrzD) encoding for Atrazine degrading enzymes were identified by PCR and sequencing in strain FH-1. This study provides additional theoretical support for the application of strain FH-1 in bioremediation of fields polluted by Atrazine.
Emergence of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis among Lebanese Pregnant Women: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Species Distribution
Authors: Ghaddar Nahed , El Roz Ali , Ghssein Ghassan , Ibrahim José-Noel
Published: July 2019

Objective.Candidaspecies colonize the vagina in at least 20% of women, with rates rising to 30% during pregnancy. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) in pregnant women at 35-37 weeks of gestation. It also aims at finding possible correlations between VVC and vaginal colonization by other agents, such as Group BStreptococcus(GBS) and bacterial vaginosis.Methodology. Over a one-year period, high vaginal swabs were collected from pregnant women during their regular antenatal checkup in different polyclinics in Beirut and South Lebanon. Swabs were examined microscopically, cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar, andCandidaisolates were identified using ChromaticCandidamedium and Germ Tube Test.Results. VVC was detected in 44.8% of samples, withC. glabrata(44.4%) andC. albicans(43.4%) being the most isolated species. Approximately, half of pregnant women (57.7%) were coinfected withCandidaand bacterial vaginosis, while 26% of them carried simultaneouslyCandidaspp. and GBS. No significant correlation was found between the occurrence of VVC and demographic, clinical, medical, and reproductive health characteristics of pregnant women. In contrast, participants with previous miscarriages and those being hospitalized during the past 12 months were more susceptible to develop vaginalC. kruseiinfection in comparison to otherCandidaspecies (p=0.0316 and p=0.0042, respectively).Conclusion. The prevalence of VVC in pregnant women is an increasing trend in our community. Therefore, routine medical examination and regular screening for candidiasis in the antenatal care program is highly recommended to manage the disease and its complications.