bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Methodology for Isotopic Ratio Measurement of Micro‐Grains in Thin Sections: True Grain Size Estimation and Deconvolution of Inter‐Grain Size Gradients and Intra‐Grain Radial Gradients
Authors: Jones Clive , Fike David A. , Meyer Katja M.
Published: November 2018

In a thin section, grains that were approximately spherical in situ appear circular in cross section, and the distribution of apparent diameters frequently assumed to be their size distribution. Scanning ion imaging by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) is capable of providing precise (< 1‰) stable isotope ratio measurements of such grains, but, importantly, also registers their rate of evolution in apparent size as they are ablated by the primary beam. By assessing rates of radius change with depth, the described methodology enables the ‘true’ size of grains to be estimated, as well as the distance of the sectioned surface from the original grain centre. Transects in three dimensions are made possible, and this capability enables better identification (and thus separation) of both inter‐grain chemical signatures as a function of grain size, and intra‐grain radial trends. In this example, we highlight the specific application to pyrite (FeS2) minerals, which are frequently analysed by SIMS to determine their inter‐grain and intra‐grain geochemical variations, particularly in their sulfur stable isotopic ratios (δ34S). Benefits of the new methodology over the Faraday cup ‘spot mode’ are described. Data correction algorithms and precision considerations are discussed.
Effect of zein additive on perfume evaporation
Authors: Cabin‐Flaman A. , Delaune A. , Poutrain P. , Gangwe Nana Y.G. , Jourdain B. , Gibouin D. , Paris J.P. , Trestour S. , Seigneuret J.M. , Léopoldès de Vendômois A. , Cosette P. , Etienne J.J. , Ripoll C.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Zein is known to have filmogen properties. We wanted to show if a zein film containing eugenol (eugenol as model) would retain the fragrances, slow their evaporation and therefore produce a long‐lasting perception of perfume.

Methods

We added corn zein to eugenol in a hydro‐alcoholic solution to form a film in vitro and at the surface of the human skin. We have studied the trapping and release of eugenol from zein film by GC/MS. Also we labelled eugenol with deuterium to image specifically its distribution in the zein film using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry technique (NanoSIMS 50). Finally, we applied the zein/D‐eugenol formulation onto skin to image the eugenol location on and in skin by SIMS (Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry).

Results

We showed that eugenol evaporation from zein film can be divided in three periods. The first period (≤2 h) corresponds to the simultaneous solvent and eugenol evaporation occurring during film formation. The second period corresponds to the continuous and slow eugenol evaporation during a few hours (about 10 h) but not to its completion. The third period (at least up to 48 h) results from the trapping of eugenol in zein film. After 24 or 48 h, trapped eugenol can be released and evaporated under mechanical deformations of the film. Moreover we showed that zein addition does not favour the eugenol penetration into viable epidermis which may cause allergenic cutaneous reaction.

Conclusion

The zein additive is safe to use, does not impact the olfactory perception, allows a better perception of the fragrance (long‐lasting effect) in a more protective way and can be used in perfume.
Fractal characterization of ceramic crack patterns after thermal shocks
Authors: Qi Fei , Meng Songhe , Song Fan , Guo Hao , Xu Xianghong , Shao Yingfeng , Chen Yao
Published: November 2018

This work utilized a combination of experimental evidence and fractal geometric method to assess the effect of crack extension concerning the thermal shock on residual strength of ceramics. Sintered alumina (Al2O3) ceramic slabs were bundled and quenched in water under different thermal shock temperatures. The fractal dimension of thermal shock crack patterns on the interior surface and the cooled surface was calculated by the Box‐counting method. Fracture energy of a fractal pattern of microcracks in quasi‐brittle solids was employed to explain the relationship between crack length and fractal dimensions. The results show that if the crack propagation has the same crack length but a larger fractal dimension, it will absorb more fracture energy. The thermal shock crack patterns of Al2O3 ceramics with different grain sizes were analyzed, and the smaller grain size ceramic had a higher fractal dimension of crack patterns than the larger one.
Domain epitaxy of crystalline BeO films on GaN and ZnO substrates
Authors: Lee Seung Min , Yum Jung Hwan , Larsen Eric S. , Shervin Shahab , Wang Weijie , Ryou Jae‐Hyun , Bielawski Christopher W. , Lee Woo Chul , Kim Seong Keun , Oh Jungwoo
Published: November 2018

We demonstrated the growth of wurtzite‐crystalline beryllium oxide (BeO) thin films on GaN and ZnO substrates using atomic layer deposition (ALD). Single‐crystalline BeO were epitaxially grown on GaN. Despite the inherently large lattice mismatch of BeO and GaN atoms, the 6/5 and 7/6 domain‐matched structures dramatically reduced the residual strain in BeO thin films. On the other hand, the lattice mismatch of BeO and ZnO was not effectively accommodated in the mixed domains. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the in‐plane crystallization of BeO‐on‐substrates in the (002){102}BeO||(002){102}Sub orientation and relaxation degrees of 20.8% (GaN), 100% (ZnO). The theoretical critical thicknesses of BeO for strain relaxation were 2.2 μm (GaN) and 1.6 nm (ZnO), calculated using a total film energy model. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier‐filtered imaging supported the bonding configuration and crystallinity of wurtzite BeO thin films on GaN and ZnO substrates.
Do ecogeographical rules explain morphological variation in a diverse, Holarctic genus of small mammals?
Authors: Stanchak Kathryn E. , Santana Sharlene E.
Published: November 2018

Aim

We use ecogeographical rules to understand the relationship between biogeography and morphological evolution in Sorex (Linnaeus, 1758) shrews. Specifically, we test for climatic correlations in body size (Bergmann's rule; larger species in colder habitats) and pelage brightness (Gloger's rule; darker species in more humid/warmer habitats).

Location

North America and Eurasia (Holarctic).

Taxon

Sorex spp. (Mammalia: Soricomorpha: Soricidae).

Methods

We compiled body size data for 51 species of Sorex and measured pelage brightness from museum specimens for 43 species. We sourced bioclimatic data across the geographical range of each species as well as specific to the museum specimen localities. For comparative purposes, we also estimated a Sorex phylogeny using existing sequence data. To test Bergmann's and Gloger's rules, we constructed phylogenetic least squares models considering latitude, altitude, and bioclimatic variables as predictors of interspecific variation in body size and pelage brightness across Sorex. We then performed these tests separately for the Palaearctic and Nearctic lineages.

Results

Sorex exhibits wide variation in both body size and pelage brightness. In models of the entire genus and of the Nearctic clade, neither trait is significantly predicted by the variables tested. A decrease in pelage brightness in the Palaearctic clade is significantly predicted by increasing mean annual temperature and annual precipitation, but only when considering climatic data specific to the measured specimen localities.

Main conclusions

Sorex does not conform to Bergmann's rule. This result aligns with intraspecific studies suggesting Bergmann's rule is less evident in smaller taxa, but it counters others that found support for the rule in North American and European assemblages. Different patterns in pelage evolution across the Nearctic and Palaearctic clades may result from different historical climatic pressures; however, the significance of the relationship between climate and pelage evolution is dependent on the specificity of the climatic data. Sorex may be a useful focal taxon for exploring the relationship between intra‐ and interspecific ecogeographical patterns as well as the relative roles of morphological, behavioural, physiological, and life history characteristics in explaining the ability to persist in climatically challenging environments.
Domestication and crop evolution of wheat and barley: Genes, genomics, and future directions
Authors: Haas Matthew , Schreiber Mona , Mascher Martin
Published: November 2018

Wheat and barley are two of the founder crops of the agricultural revolution that took place 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent and both crops remain among the world's most important crops. Domestication of these crops from their wild ancestors required the evolution of traits useful to humans, rather than survival in their natural environment. Of these traits, grain retention and threshability, yield improvement, changes to photoperiod sensitivity and nutritional value are most pronounced between wild and domesticated forms. Knowledge about the geographical origins of these crops and the genes responsible for domestication traits largely pre‐dates the era of next‐generation sequencing, although sequencing will lead to new insights. Molecular markers were initially used to calculate distance (relatedness), genetic diversity and to generate genetic maps which were useful in cloning major domestication genes. Both crops are characterized by large, complex genomes which were long thought to be beyond the scope of whole‐genome sequencing. However, advances in sequencing technologies have improved the state of genomic resources for both wheat and barley. The availability of reference genomes for wheat and some of its progenitors, as well as for barley, sets the stage for answering unresolved questions in domestication genomics of wheat and barley.
A narrative review of proteinuria and albuminuria as clinical biomarkers in children
Authors: Larkins Nicholas G , Teixeira‐Pinto Armando , Craig Jonathan C
Published: November 2018

Proteinuria is an important biomarker commonly used to detect and manage kidney disease in children. There are now a variety of methods available to measure urinary protein loss, and physicians are faced with several contrasting strategies: 24‐h or timed collection versus spot samples (first‐morning or random), measurement of total urinary protein versus selective measurement of urinary albumin, unadjusted urine protein concentration versus protein‐to‐creatinine ratio and the use of dipstick versus laboratory‐based methods. In this review, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these different approaches. We will then summarise the evidence base for proteinuria as a clinical biomarker in different settings, including discussion of the current and potential role of measuring low‐level albuminuria. Finally, we will highlight gaps in the literature and opportunities for further research into proteinuria among children.
Evaluating haemodialysis patient's nutritional status: Body mass index or body cell mass index?
Authors: Valente Ana , Caetano Cristina , Oliveira Telma , Garagarza Cristina
Published: November 2018

Objective

Evaluate which of two combinations of parameters based on International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism recommendations could better identify patients with protein‐energy wasting (PEW) and to compare the relationship of these two combinations with other clinical and body composition parameters.

Methods

This was a multicentre longitudinal study with 24 months of follow‐up. The PEW patients were characterized by: Group A (GA) – normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR) < 1.0 g/kg per day, albumin <3.8 g/dL and body cell mass index (BCMI) < 6.4 kg/m2 (n = 203); Group B (GB) – nPCR <1.0 g/kg per day, albumin <3.8 g/dL and body mass index (BMI) <23 kg/m2 (n = 109). All the patients who did not meet these requirements were considered “well‐nourished” (GA: n = 1818; GB: n = 3292).

Results

When compared to the well‐nourished patients, PEW patients in the GA presented higher age, Kt/V, C‐reactive protein, relative overhydration, fat tissue index (FTI); lower creatinine, albumin, nPCR, PTH, haemoglobin, phosphorus, calcium X phosphorus product, potassium, dry weight, BMI, BCMI, lean tissue index, %IDWG . In the GB, well‐nourished patients FTI was significantly higher. In Cox analysis, the combination with BCMI was a strong independent predictor of mortality in these patients (hazard ratio: 1.48; confidence interval: 1.00–2.19; P = 0.048), even after adjustment. Although GB combination seemed to be also a predictor of death (hazard ratio: 2.67; confidence interval: 1.92–3.71; P < 0.001), when adjusted, the association remained no longer significant.

Conclusion

A new combination of parameters including protein intake, albumin and BCMI demonstrated significant associations with other nutrition and inflammation parameters as well as with mortality.
Comprehensive strategy to reduce the incidence of lead dislodgement for cardiac implantable electronic devices
Authors: Afzal Muhammad R. , Horner Sarah , Matre Nancy B. , Blake Patricia , Dunham Kari , Pinkhas Daniel , Okabe Toshimasa , Tyler Jaret , Houmsse Mahmoud , Kalbfleisch Steven J. , Weiss Raul , Hummel John D. , Daoud Emile G. , Augostini Ralph S.
Published: November 2018

Background

Lead dislodgement (LD) is a well‐recognized complication during implantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). An intraprocedural protocol, referred to as reduction of LD protocol, was developed to reduce the risk of LD.

Methods

The protocol involved (1) inserting a straight stylet down the right atrial lead and applying forward pressure while monitoring for fluoroscopic stability, (2) visualizing all leads during deep inspiration to determine if there is adequate lead redundancy, and (3) having the patient take a deep breath and cough while pacing just at capture threshold to assess for loss of capture in each lead. Any intraprocedural change in the parameters fulfilling the predefined criteria for inadequate lead implantation prompted lead repositioning. Data regarding demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and incidence of LD in the first 30 days after implant was obtained from intramural CIED database. The preintervention (control) group spanned 27 months and consisted of a total of 4,294 leads while the postintervention (intervention) group spanned 17 months and consisted of 2,361 leads implanted.

Results

There was no significant difference in the demographic factors and clinical characteristics in the two groups. Protocol compliance was > 90%. There were 44 occurrences of LD (1.02%) before and 10 (0.4%) after implementation of the protocol. The protocol significantly reduced the incidence of LD during the 30 days after implant (P = 0.014). No clinical characteristic predicted the risk of LD.

Conclusion

Intraprocedural maneuvers performed to assess the adequacy of lead implantation results in reduced risk of LD.
Current understanding and perioperative management of pediatric pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Latham Gregory J. , Yung Delphine
Published: November 2018

Pediatric pulmonary hypertension is a complex disease with multiple, diverse etiologies affecting the premature neonate to the young adult. Pediatric pulmonary arterial hypertension, whether idiopathic or associated with congenital heart disease, is the most commonly discussed form of pediatric pulmonary hypertension, as it is progressive and lethal. However, neonatal forms of pulmonary hypertension are vastly more frequent, and while most cases are transient, the risk of morbidity and mortality in this group deserves recognition. Pulmonary hypertension due to left heart disease is another subset increasingly recognized as an important cause of pediatric pulmonary hypertension. One aspect of pediatric pulmonary hypertension is very clear: anesthetizing the child with pulmonary hypertension is associated with a significantly heightened risk of morbidity and mortality. It is therefore imperative that anesthesiologists who care for children with pulmonary hypertension have a firm understanding of the pathophysiology of the various forms of pediatric pulmonary hypertension, the impact of anesthesia and sedation in the setting of pulmonary hypertension, and anesthesiologists’ role as perioperative experts from preoperative planning to postoperative disposition. This review summarizes the current understanding of pediatric pulmonary hypertension physiology, preoperative risk stratification, anesthetic risk, and intraoperative considerations relevant to the underlying pathophysiology of various forms of pediatric pulmonary hypertension.
Lysosome and proteasome pathways are distributed in laticifers of Euphorbia helioscopia L.
Authors: Fang Xiaoai , Zhang Yue , Wang Meng , Li Peng , Zhang Qing , Si Jingjing , Wei Bofei , Miao Yan , Tian Lanting , Cai Xia
Published: November 2018

At present, the lysosome pathway (LP) and proteasome pathway (PP) are known as major clearance systems in eukaryotic cells. The laticifer, a secretory tissue, degrades some cytoplasm during development. In this study, we investigated the distribution of LP and PP in non‐articulated laticifers of Euphorbia helioscopia L. Electron microscopy revealed that, plastids, mitochondria and some cyotsol were degraded in the late development laticifers, where there were numerous vesicles originated from dicytosomes. Accordingly, some key proteins in LP and PP were detected in E. helioscopia latex using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) proteomics. Further immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that the clathrin heavy chain (CHC) belonging to LP and the ubiquitin‐mediated proteasome degradation increases gradually as the laticifer develops. Immuno‐electron microscopy revealed that the cysteine protease, CHC and AP‐2 complex subunit beta‐1 belonging to LP were mainly distributed in vesicles deriving from dicytosomes, which we called lysosome‐like vesicles. Ubiquitin was widely distributed in the cytosol, and proteasome activity was significantly reduced when various concentrations of the inhibitor MG132 were added to the latex total protein. We hypothesize that LP and PP are distributed in E. helioscopia laticifers; and it was speculated that LP and PP might be involved in the degradation of organelles and some cytoplasmic matrix in E. helioscopia laticifers.
Dental appliance therapy in pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration: Case report
Authors: Cooper Thomas , Smith Leon
Published: November 2018

Pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare condition associated with severe protrusive lingual dystonia, a form of oromandibular dystonia. Dental appliance therapy has been described for oromandibular dystonia however there is a lack of literature regarding its application specifically to PKAN. In this report, the authors describe the use of an appliance in conjunction with botulinum toxin injections for the symptomatic treatment of this condition. A satisfactory outcome is achieved which suggests this technique may be of use to other clinicians.
Reproducibility of the durometer and myoton devices for skin stiffness measurement in healthy subjects
Authors: Dellalana Laura E. , Chen Fuyao , Vain Arved , Gandelman Jocelyn S. , Põldemaa Mihkel , Chen Heidi , Tkaczyk Eric R.
Published: November 2018

Background

Clinical assessment of skin stiffness is unreliable in many applications. The durometer, an industrial device to measure hardness, has previously been applied in scleroderma. The Myoton is a noninvasive handheld device for assessing soft tissue biomechanical parameters.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated the reproducibility of both devices in six healthy subjects in the volar forearm, dorsal forearm, upper arm, shin, and calf bilaterally. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used as a measure of reproducibility among three observers.

Results

The interobserver intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of overall stiffness for the Myoton was 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45‐1.00] and 0.71 [0.39‐1.00] for the durometer. Coefficient of variation (CV) for the Myoton was 6.4% [range 1.3‐12.1] and 7.6% [range 4.4‐13.8] for the durometer. Myoton and durometer values had a Pearson correlation of 0.69. The intraobserver Myoton ICC was 0.89 [0.74‐1.00] and CV 3.1% [range 1.6‐5.0]. The 95% confidence minimal detectable change by the Myoton for a single observer is 32.4 N/m, which is 7.6% of the average subject's overall stiffness.

Conclusion

The Myoton demonstrated high reproducibility, particularly in the overall stiffness parameter, and merits further investigation to assess disease progression and treatment efficacy.
Racial Minorities’ Trust in Government and Government Decisionmakers
Authors: Koch Jeffrey W.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Compare the impact of being a racial minority for influencing political trust as measured by the standard, NES‐developed measures with its impact on assessments of the capacity of decisionmakers to make racially unbiased spending and hiring decisions. Additionally, to examine the political trust of American Indians, an understudied racial minority.

Methods

Bivariate and multivariate analysis of 2004 and 2008 National Annenberg Election Study survey data.

Results

Self‐designation as a racial minority exercises small, inconsistent effects on the standard measures of political trust and external efficacy. When citizens are asked whether Caucasian government officials make decisions on spending and hiring to advantage whites to the disadvantage of blacks and Hispanics, racial minorities state that they expect racial bias. American Indians reveal levels of political trust similar to those held by other racial minorities.

Conclusion

An increasingly multiracial society will experience considerable tensions as minorities distrust government decisionmakers of a different race. These tensions will continue to be exploited by ambitious political elites.
Human herpesvirus 6 encephalitis in patients administered mycophenolate mofetil as prophylaxis for graft‐versus‐host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Inui Yumiko , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Okamura Atsuo , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Shinzato Isaku , Nomura Tetsuhiko , Ichikawa Hiroya , Mizutani Yu , Kitao Akihito , Kurata Keiji , Kakiuchi Seiji , Miyata Yoshiharu , Sanada Yukinari , Kitagawa Koichi , Uryu Kiyoaki , Kawamoto Shinichiro , Yamamoto Katsuya , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Murayama Tohru , Ito Mitsuhiro , Minami Hironobu
Published: November 2018

Background

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) encephalitis is a known life‐threatening complication following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). However, few studies have focused on the occurrence of HHV‐6 encephalitis in patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) combined with a calcineurin inhibitor as prophylaxis for graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). This study aimed to investigate the impact of MMF administered for GVHD prophylaxis in the occurrence of HHV‐6 encephalitis after allo‐HSCT and the characteristics of this condition.

Methods and results

We retrospectively analyzed 73 patients who underwent allo‐HSCT (83 transplants) at our hospital between April 2010 and December 2015. MMF (2‐3 g/d) was administered along with a calcineurin inhibitor. Seven patients (8.0%) developed encephalitis due to HHV‐6. The median period from allo‐HSCT to the onset of HHV‐6 encephalitis was 23 days (range, 17‐98 days). The cumulative incidence of HHV‐6 encephalitis on day 100 after treatment was 12% and 6% in patients who underwent cord blood transplantation (CBT) and non‐CBT (ie, bone marrow transplantation and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation), respectively (P = 0.344). Neurological symptoms of encephalitis were more severe in non‐CBT cases than those in CBT cases. All patients diagnosed with HHV‐6 encephalitis were treated with ganciclovir or foscarnet. None of the enrolled patients died from HHV‐6 encephalitis.

Conclusions

Mycophenolate mofetil may have the potential to increase the frequency of severe HHV‐6 encephalitis in patients undergoing CBT and non‐CBT. Thus, MMF should be administered with caution, and patients should be monitored closely for HHV‐6 encephalitis even those who did not undergo CBT.
Emphysematous pyelonephritis in renal allograft related to antibody‐mediated rejection: A case report and literature review
Authors: Takahashi Kazuhiro , Malinzak Lauren E. , Safwan Mohamed , Kim Dean Y. , Patel Anita K. , Denny Jason E.
Published: November 2018

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare condition which can rapidly progress to sepsis and multiple organ failure with high mortality. We experienced a rare case of EPN in a renal allograft related to antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR). The patient received a deceased donor kidney transplant due to end‐stage renal disease secondary to diabetes mellitus. Cross‐match test was negative but she had remote history of anti‐HLA‐A2 antibody corresponding with the donor HLA. Surgery concluded without any major events. Anti‐thymoglobulin was given perioperatively for induction. She was compliant with her immunosuppressive medications making urine of 2 L/d with serum creatinine of 1.9 mg/dL at discharge on post‐operative day (POD) 6. She did well until POD 14 when she presented to the clinic with features of sepsis, pain over the transplanted kidney area and decline in urine volume with elevated serum creatinine. CT revealed extensive gas throughout the transplanted kidney. Renal scan revealed non‐functional transplant kidney with no arterial flow. Based on these findings, a decision to perform transplant nephrectomy was made. At laparotomy, the kidney was completely necrotic. Pathology showed non‐viable kidney parenchyma with the tubules lacking neutrophilic casts suggestive of ischemic necrosis. Donor‐specific antibody (DSA) returned positive with high intensity anti‐HLA‐A2 antibody. This is the first case of early EPN in allograft considered to have occurred as a result of thrombotic ischemia secondary to AMR. This case suggests consideration of perioperative anti‐B‐cell and/or anti‐plasma cell therapies for historical DSA and strict post‐operative follow‐up in immunologically high‐risk recipients to detect early signs of rejection and avoid deleterious outcomes.
Topological indices of non-commuting graph of dihedral groups
Authors: Alimon Nur Idayu , Sarmin Nor Haniza , Erfanian Ahmad
Published: November 2018

Assume  is a non-abelian group  A dihedral group is the group of symmetries of a regular polygon, which includes rotations and reflections. The non-commuting graph of  denoted by  is the graph of vertex set  whose vertices are non-central elements, in which  is the center of  and two distinct vertices  and  are joined by an edge if and only if  In this paper, some topological indices of the non-commuting graph,  of the dihedral groups,  are presented. In order to determine the Edge-Wiener index, First Zagreb index and Second Zagreb index of the non-commuting graph,  of the dihedral groups,  previous results of some of the topological indices of non-commuting graph of finite group are used. Then, the non-commuting graphs of dihedral groups of different orders are found. Finally, the generalisation of Edge-Wiener index, First Zagreb index and Second Zagreb index of the non-commuting graphs of dihedral groups are determined.
Minimally ramified deformations when
Authors: Booher Jeremy
Published: November 2018

Let $p$ and $\ell$ be distinct primes, and let $\overline{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}}$ be an orthogonal or symplectic representation of the absolute Galois group of an $\ell$-adic field over a finite field of characteristic $p$. We define and study a liftable deformation condition of lifts of $\overline{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}}$ ‘ramified no worse than $\overline{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}}$’, generalizing the minimally ramified deformation condition for $\operatorname{GL}_{n}$ studied in Clozel et al. [Automorphy for some$l$-adic lifts of automorphic mod$l$Galois representations, Publ. Math. Inst. Hautes Études Sci. 108 (2008), 1–181; MR 2470687 (2010j:11082)]. The key insight is to restrict to deformations where an associated unipotent element does not change type when deforming. This requires an understanding of nilpotent orbits and centralizers of nilpotent elements in the relative situation, not just over fields.
Down‐regulation of the long non‐coding RNA XIST ameliorates podocyte apoptosis in membranous nephropathy via the miR‐217–TLR4 pathway
Authors: Jin Ling‐wei , Pan Min , Ye Han‐yang , Zheng Yu , Chen Yan , Huang Wen‐wen , Xu Xiao‐yan , Zheng Shu‐bei
Published: November 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the role of the long non‐coding RNA X‐inactive specific transcript (XIST), which is up‐regulated in injured podocytes and membranous nephropathy, in the pathogenesis of membranous nephropathy?

What is the main finding and its importance?

XIST was up‐regulated in kidney tissue with membranous nephropathy and in injured podocytes. Down‐regulation of XIST inhibited podocyte apoptosis. XIST negatively regulated miR‐217, and miR‐217 modulated Toll‐like receptor 4. Inhibition of XIST suppressed podocyte apoptosis induced by angiotensin II via miR‐217.

Membranous nephropathy is often characterized by glomerular podocyte injury. Up‐regulation of the long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) X‐inactive specific transcript (XIST) has been verified in membranous nephropathy and in injured podocytes. Here the role of XIST in podocyte injury and membranous nephropathy was explored. Quantitative real‐time PCR and western blot were performed to detect the expression of XIST and miR‐217, and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) protein, respectively. Podocyte apoptosis was evaluated with flow cytometry. Interaction between XIST and miR‐217 was analysed by RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull‐down assay. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to examine the interplay between miR‐217 and TLR4. Up‐regulation of the lncRNA XIST and angiotensin II (Ang II) and kidney and podocyte injury were indicated in kidney tissue of patients with membranous nephropathy. Increase of XIST and apoptosis were induced by Ang II in podocytes. Down‐regulation of XIST reversed podocyte apoptosis induced by Ang II. MiR‐217 was negatively regulated by XIST. MiR‐217 controlled TLR4 by targeting its 3′‐untranslated region. XIST modulated TLR4 through miR‐217 and inhibition of XIST reduced podocyte apoptosis induced by Ang II via regulating miR‐217. Down‐regulation of XIST ameliorates podocyte apoptosis via the miR‐217–TLR4 pathway, which may improve membranous nephropathy.
Simple Formulas to Predict Center and Mean Temperatures and Total Heat Transfer in Regular Configurations With Surface Temperature Under Small- and Large-Time Conditions
Authors: Campo Antonio , Masip Macía Yunesky
Published: November 2018

Simple formulas for the prediction of three important thermal quantities, the center temperature, the mean temperature, and the total heat transfer in regular configurations (large plane wall, long cylinder, and sphere) cooled/heated with prescribed uniform surface temperature during “small time,” are addressed in the present paper. Two immediate engineering applications deal with quenching of metals and sterilization of canned food. The simple formulas emanate from the truncated one term series of the supplementary infinite series at small time. The small time subregion has been traditionally characterized in the heat conduction literature by the dimensionless time or Fourier number τ< 0.24 in the large plane wall, τ< 0.21 in the long cylinder, and τ< 0.19 in the sphere. Excellent agreement between the obtained simple formulas and the traditional solutions (namely the exact, analytical infinite series for “all time”) are attained for the center temperature, mean temperature, and total heat transfer in the large plane wall, long cylinder, and sphere.
Thermal Performance of Pulsating Heat Stripes Built With Plastic Materials
Authors: Der Oguzhan , Marengo Marco , Bertola Volfango
Published: November 2018

A low-cost, flexible pulsating heat pipe (PHP) was built in a composite polypropylene sheet consisting of three layers joint together by selective laser welding, to address the demand of heat transfer devices characterized by low weight, small unit thickness, low cost, and high mechanical flexibility. A thin, flexible, and lightweight heat pipe is advantageous for various aerospace, aircraft, and portable electronic applications where the device weight, and its mechanical flexibility are essential. The concept is to sandwich a serpentine channel, cut out in a polypropylene sheet and containing a self-propelled mixture of a working fluid with its vapor, between two transparent sheets of the same material; this results into a thin, flat enclosure with parallel channels hence the name “pulsating heat stripes” (PHS). The transient and steady-state thermal response of the device was characterized for different heat input levels and different configurations, either straight or bent at different angles. The equivalent thermal resistance was estimated by measuring the wall temperatures at both the evaporator and the condenser, showing a multifold increase of the equivalent thermal conductance with respect to solid polypropylene.
Impact of Cattaneo–Christov Heat Flux Model on Stagnation-Point Flow Toward a Stretching Sheet with Slip Effects
Authors: Al Sulti Fayeza
Published: November 2018

Stagnation-point flow toward a stretching sheet with slip effects has been investigated. Unlike most classical works, Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model is utilized for the formulation of the energy equation instead of Fourier's law of heat conduction. A similarity transformation technique is adopted to reduce partial differential equations into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Numerical solutions are obtained by using shooting method to explore the features of various parameters for the velocity and temperature distributions. The obtained results are graphically presented and analyzed. It is found that fluid temperature has a converse relationship with the thermal relaxation time. A comparison of Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model and Fourier's law is also presented.
Direct Sensitivity Analysis of Multibody Systems: A Vehicle Dynamics Benchmark
Authors: Callejo Alfonso , Dopico Daniel
Published: November 2018

Algorithms for the sensitivity analysis of multibody systems are quickly maturing as computational and software resources grow. Indeed, the area has made substantial progress since the first academic methods and examples were developed. Today, sensitivity analysis tools aimed at gradient-based design optimization are required to be as computationally efficient and scalable as possible. This paper presents extensive verification of one of the most popular sensitivity analysis techniques, namely the direct differentiation method (DDM). Usage of such method is recommended when the number of design parameters relative to the number of outputs is small and when the time integration algorithm is sensitive to accumulation errors. Verification is hereby accomplished through two radically different computational techniques, namely manual differentiation and automatic differentiation, which are used to compute the necessary partial derivatives. Experiments are conducted on an 18-degree-of-freedom, 366-dependent-coordinate bus model with realistic geometry and tire contact forces, which constitutes an unusually large system within general-purpose sensitivity analysis of multibody systems. The results are in good agreement; the manual technique provides shorter runtimes, whereas the automatic differentiation technique is easier to implement. The presented results highlight the potential of manual and automatic differentiation approaches within general-purpose simulation packages, and the importance of formulation benchmarking.
Stability Analysis in Mean-Field Games via an Evans Function Approach
Authors: Grover Piyush
Published: November 2018

This work is concerned with stability analysis of stationary and time-varying equilibria in a class of mean-field games that relate to multi-agent control problems of flocking and swarming. The mean-field game framework is a non-cooperative model of distributed optimal control in large populations, and characterizes the optimal control for a representative agent in Nash-equilibrium with the population. A mean-field game model is described by a coupled PDE system of forward-in-time Fokker-Planck (FP) equation for density of agents, and a backward-in-time Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman (HJB) equation for control. The linear stability analysis of fixed points of these equations typically proceeds via numerical computation of spectrum of the linearized MFG operator. We explore the Evans function approach that provides a geometric alternative to solving the characteristic equation.
Method of Flexible Fence Geometry Determination in the Context of the Small-Sized Objects Sorting Process
Authors: Piatkowski Tomasz , Wolski Miroslaw
Published: November 2018

The paper presents a proposal for a method for determining the geometrical dimensions of a rotary flexible fence used in the process of automatic sorting of small-sized objects transported on conveyor belts. The method consists of three stages: 1 – determination of the preferred outline and material of the fence, 2 – optimal parameters determination of the sorting process, 3 – dimensions selection for the preferred geometry of the fence with reference to the mass of scraped objects and the sorting process parameters. The stages adopted allow to select the optimal mass-spring-damper characteristics of the fences in the context of the assumed level of efficiency, reliability and minimization of the dynamic reactions of the sorting process.
Control of Slender-Beam Payloads During Lift-Up Operations
Authors: Wang Shenghai , Ferri Aldo , Singhose William , Yang Yujia
Published: November 2018

When lifting up a long slender beam from ground, the payload may slip or move suddenly in unintended and unpredictable ways. This occurs during crane operations when the movements of the overhead trolley and the hoist cable are not properly coordinated. Also, it is difficult to keep the centers of hook and payload mass aligned with the pivot point when the payload is lifted off the ground, resulting in undesired hook and payload swing. The payload’s unintended sliding or swing can potentially cause damage and reduce efficiency. This paper divides the lift-up process into two phases including a constrained phase and a free hanging phase, develops a combination of PID controller and speed envelope to prevent slip in the constrained phase, and presents an observer-based Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control strategy to stabilize the double-pendulum oscillations in the free hanging phase. The robustness of the proposed observer-based LQR was analyzed. Lift-up experiments were carried out to verify the controller development.
Latent Variable Grasp Prediction for Exoskeletal Glove Control
Authors: Chauhan Raghuraj J. , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: November 2018

This paper presents a grasp prediction algorithm designed to govern the motion of an exoskeletal glove in rehabilitative and assistive applications. Recent research into the dynamics of hand motion has shown that the complex motion of the finger joints can be represented as a smaller set of coordinated motions or latent variables. This fact forms the basis of the proposed algorithm capable of successful prediction even with noisy data. From relatively small motion (minute user hand movements) as the input, the developed algorithm can predict intended grasp configurations. The 16 finger joint angles, with random noise, are mapped onto a set of six latent variables for which the estimated noise and future configuration are simultaneously determined using a linear regression. The algorithm was tested in simulation on published motion data from 30 healthy subjects performing a set of common grasps on multiple objects. The algorithm was able to determine the target state with an accuracy of approximately 90% for each subject, despite the nonlinear motion and non-uniform trajectory variations. We propose that the predicted grasp is an adequate target for an exoskeletal glove to provide initial gross movement for the user, then iteratively converge to the desired grasp with only limited additional user input.
An Optimization-Oriented Supervisory Controller Design for Hybrid Fuel Cell Electrified Vehicles
Authors: Wu Kai , Milacic Milos , Albousefi Alhadi , Kuang Ming , Sun Jing
Published: November 2018

In this paper, an optimization-oriented supervisory controller based on Pontryagin’s Minimum Principle (PMP) is established to develop an on-road energy management strategy for hybrid fuel cell vehicles. A method to estimate initial co-state value based on average power is proposed and demonstrated, which makes the offline PMP algorithm feasible for on board implementation. Furthermore, the proposed adaptive PMP (A-PMP) maintains charge-sustaining performance using readily available driving information, such as the total travel time. The A-PMP is evaluated on a high fidelity Ford fuel cell electrified vehicle powertrain with an experimentally validated fuel cell stack model. Comparing to the default baseline energy management method, the A-PMP provides better fuel economy performance. The simulation results show up to 1.1% miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPGe) improvement for Highway Fuel Economy Test (HWFET), 2.1% for Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS), and 7.0% for EPA Federal Test Procedure (FTP-75).
Cooperative Deterministic Learning-Based Trajectory Tracking for a Group of Unicycle-Type Vehicles
Authors: Dong Xiaonan , Yuan Chengzhi , Wu Fen
Published: November 2018

A cooperative deterministic learning based state feedback control algorithm is proposed in this paper for joint tracking control and learning/identification for a group of identical nonholonomic vehicles. Specifically, this algorithm is able to model the unknown nonlinear dynamics of the nonholonomic vehicle, and use it for trajectory tracking control with cooperative deterministic learning (DL) theory. In addition, cooperative DL grants every vehicle in the system the ability of knowledge learning not only along the trajectory of its own, but also along the trajectories of all other vehicles as well. It is shown using Lyapunov stability theory that with cooperative DL, the closed-loop system is guaranteed to be stable, with all vehicles tracking its own reference trajectories, and the radial basis function (RBF) neural network (NN) weights of all agents converge to the same constants.
A Passivity-Based Regressor-Free Adaptive Controller for Robot Manipulators With Combined Regressor/Parameter Estimation
Authors: Ebeigbe Donald , Simon Dan
Published: November 2018

This paper develops a new function approximation technique (FAT)-based adaptive controller for the control of rigid robots called the adaptive passivity function approximation technique (APFAT) controller. This controller utilizes the passivity-based approach and simplifies the FAT controller design by eliminating the need for simultaneous estimation of the robot’s inertia matrix, Coriolis matrix, and gravity vector. The controller achieves its simplicity by treating the product of the regressor matrix and parameter vector as an unknown time-varying function to be approximated. The controller can be implemented in robots where the dynamic equations of motion are unknown. The stability of the controller is verified with Lyapunov functions by taking advantage of the passivity property of the robot dynamics. Simulation results on a three degree-of-freedom (DOF) PUMA500 robot demonstrate the ability to track reference trajectories using reasonable control signals when the inertia matrix, Coriolis matrix, and gravity vector are unavailable.
Computational Modeling of Spontaneous Otoacoustic Emissions by the Mammalian Cochlea
Authors: Meaud Julien , Bowling Thomas , Lemons Charlsie
Published: November 2018

The mammalian cochlea is a sensory system with high sensitivity, sharp frequency selectivity and a broad dynamic range. These characteristics are due to the active nonlinear feedback by outer hair cells. Because it is an active nonlinear system, the cochlea sometimes emits spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) that are generated in the absence of any external stimulus due to the emergence of limit cycle oscillations. In this work, we use a computational physics-based model of the mammalian cochlea to investigate the generation of SOAEs. This model includes a three-dimensional model of the fluid mechanics in the cochlear ducts, a micromechanical model for the vibrations of the cochlear structures, and a realistic model of outer hair cell biophysics. Direct simulations of SOAEs in the time-domain demonstrate that the model is able to capture key experimental observations regarding SOAEs. Parametric studies and analysis of model simulations are used to demonstrate that SOAEs are a global phenomenon that arises due to the collective action of a distributed region of the cochlea rather than from spontaneous oscillations from individual outer hair cells.
Finite Element Analysis-Based Modeling and Feedback Linearizing Control of a Large Air Gap Magnetic Levitator
Authors: Miller Samuel R. , Buckner Gregory D.
Published: November 2018

This paper summarizes a finite element analysis (FEA)-based modeling approach and nonlinear control synthesis for a large air gap magnetic levitator. The levitator consists of a 10 mm diameter heteropolar magnetic bearing used to control the position a 2 mm diameter ferromagnetic collar bonded to a flexible microcatheter. The unusually large air gap causes the system to exhibit strongly nonlinear behavior, which is attributed to significant leakage and mutual magnetic flux paths. FEA is used to model these nonlinear flux relationships and derive system state equations. Next, a feedback linearizing controller is designed, and closed-loop system simulations are performed using MATLAB. These simulations demonstrate stability and excellent tracking performance over a range of catheter positions. Steady-state performance is shown to depend on catheter position, with errors of up to 0.1760 mm in response to a 3 mm step input. The time-averaged error in tracking a 3 mm diameter circle is shown to be at most 0.0170 mm. Control strategies which are more robust to model uncertainties and discrepancies are recommended to improve the tracking performance.
Event Triggered Neuroadaptive Controller (ETNAC) Design for Uncertain Affine Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Ghafoor A. , Yao J. , Balakrishnan S. N. , Sarangapani J. , Yucelen T.
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a novel event triggered neural network (NN) adaptive controller is presented for uncertain affine nonlinear systems. Controller design is based on an observer, called as Modified State Observer (MSO), which is used to approximate uncertainties online. State is sensed continuously yet sent on feedback network only when required, in aperiodic fashion. Lyapunov analysis is used to derive this condition which is dynamic in nature since it is based on tracking error. In this way ETNAC helps to not only saves communication cost but also computational efforts. MSO formulations have two tunable gains which let you do fast estimation without inducing high frequency oscillations in the system. A benchmark example of 2-link robotic manipulator is used to show the efficacy of the proposed controller.