bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsteady Flow of Carreau Fluid in a Suspension of Dust and Graphene
Nanoparticles With Cattaneo–Christov Heat Flux
Authors: Upadhya S. Mamatha , Mahesha  , Raju C. S. K.
Published: July 2018

This is a theoretical exploration of the magnetohydrodynamic Carreau fluid in a suspension of dust and graphene nanoparticles. Graphene is a two-dimensional single-atom thick carbon nanosheet. Due to its high thermal conductivity, electron mobility, large surface area, and stability, it has remarkable material, electrical, optical, physical, and chemical properties. In this study, a simulation is performed by mixing of graphene + water and graphene + ethylene glycol into dusty non-Newtonian fluid. Dispersion of graphene nanoparticles in dusty fluids finds applications in biocompatibility, bio-imaging, biosensors, detection and cancer treatment, in monitoring stem cells differentiation, etc. Graphene + water and graphene + ethylene glycol mixtures are significant in optimizing the heat transport phenomena. Initially arising set of physical governing partial differential equations are transformed to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) with the assistance of similarity transformations. Consequential highly nonlinear ODEs are solved numerically through Runge–Kutta Fehlberg scheme. The computational results for nondimensional temperature and velocity profiles are presented through graphs. Additionally, the numerical values of friction factor and heat transfer rate are tabulated numerically for various physical parameter obtained. We also validated the present results with previous published study and found to be highly satisfactory. The formulated model in this study reveals that heat transfer rate and wall friction is higher in mixture of graphene + ethylene glycol when compared to graphene + water.
Transient Natural Convection Heat Transfer to CO2 in the Supercritical Region
Authors: Janardhana Reddy G. , Basha Hussain , Venkata Narayanan N. S.
Published: July 2018

Present research paper investigates the transient laminar free convective supercritical carbon dioxide flow past a semi-infinite vertical cylinder using numerical methods. Two new thermodynamic models for the supercritical fluid (SCF) flow are considered. Based on these models, for supercritical carbon dioxide, two new equations for thermal expansion coefficient are obtained on the basis of Redlich–Kwong equation of state (RK-EOS) and Van der Waals equation of state (VW-EOS). Based on the calculated values of thermal expansion coefficient, it is shown that not only RK-EOS is closer to experimental values but also gives greater accuracy when compared to VW-EOS validating RK-EOS as suitable model for predicting natural convective properties of carbon dioxide under supercritical condition. The governing equations of SCF flow are solved numerically using Crank–Nicolson implicit finite difference scheme. Numerical simulations are performed for carbon dioxide in the region of its critical point. Results in subcritical, supercritical, and near-critical regions are shown graphically and discussed for different physical parameters. From the obtained numerical results, it is clear that the steady-state time increases for the increasing values of reduced temperature and reduced pressure for carbon dioxide in supercritical region.
An Evaluation of Validation Metrics for Probabilistic Model Outputs
Authors: Gardner Paul , Lord Charles , Barthorpe Robert J.
Published: July 2018

Probabilistic modelling methods are increasingly being employed in engineering applications. These approaches make inferences about the distribution, or summary statistical moments, for output quantities. A challenge in applying probabilistic models is validating output distributions. An ideal validation metric is one that intuitively provides information on key divergences between the output and validation distributions. Furthermore, it should be interpretable across different problems in order to informatively select the appropriate statistical method. In this paper, two families of measures for quantifying differences between distributions are compared: f-divergence and integral probability metrics (IPMs). Discussions and evaluation of these measures as validation metrics are performed with comments on ease of computation, interpretability and quantity of information provided.
Validation of Methodology to Evaluate Risk Reduction in Tank Car Derailments
Authors: Gonzalez Francisco , Prabhakaran Anand , Booth Graydon F. , Gantoi Florentina M. , Ghosh Arkaprabha
Published: July 2018

Critical derailment incidents associated with crude oil and ethanol transport have led to a renewed focus on improving the performance of tank cars against the potential for puncture under derailment conditions. Proposed strategies for improving accident performance have included design changes to tank cars, as well as, operational considerations such as reduced speeds.

In prior publications, the authors have described the development of a novel methodology for quantifying and characterizing the reductions in risk that result from changes to tank car designs or the tank car operating environment. The methodology considers key elements that are relevant to tank car derailment performance, including variations in derailment scenarios, chaotic derailment dynamics, nominal distributions of impact loads and impactor sizes, operating speed differences, and variations in tank car designs, and combines these elements into a consistent framework to estimate the relative merit of proposed mitigation strategies.

The modeling approach involves detailed computer simulations of derailment events, for which typical validation techniques are difficult to apply. Freight train derailments are uncontrolled chain events, which are prohibitively expensive to stage and instrument; and their chaotic nature makes the unique outcome of each event extremely sensitive to its particular set of initial and bounding conditions. Furthermore, the purpose of the modeling was to estimate the global risk reduction expected in the U.S. from tank car derailments, not to predict the outcome of a specific derailment event.

These challenges call into question which validation techniques are most appropriate, considering both the modeling intent as well the availability and fidelity of the data sets available for validation. This paper provides an overview of the verification and validation efforts that have been used to enhance confidence in this methodology.
Two new species of Angulobaloghia Hirschmann, 1979 (Acari: Rotundabaloghidae) from Brunei
Authors: Kontschán Jeno
Published: July 2018

Two new species of Angulobaloghia Hirschmann, 1979 were discovered in Brunei. Angulobaloghia bruneiensis sp. nov. differs from the congeners in the following unique character combination: sternal setae St1–St3 wide and robust and genital shield of female subtriangular with long anterior process. The second species, Angulobaloghia pallgergelyi sp. nov., has long and triangular genital shield covered by large oval pits in the female and long setae V7 and V8 in the both gender, which is also unique character combination within the genus Angulobaloghia. A new diagnosis of the genus Angulobaloghia and a new key to the known Angulobaloghia species are given.
A synopsis of host-parasite associations between Trombidioidea (Trombidiformes: Prostigmata, Parasitengona) and arthropod hosts
Authors: Felska Magdalena , Wohltmann Andreas , Mąkol Joanna
Published: July 2018

This comprehensive review of host-parasite associations between larval Trombidioidea and its arthropod hosts includes 676 pair-wise (species-species) associations and is based mainly on published records, supplemented with new findings. For 27% of all nominal species assigned to the superfamily (excl. Trombiculidae and Walchiidae), and for 66% of species known from larvae at least one host record has been hitherto provided. Hosts remain unknown for Allotanaupodidae and Yurebillidae. Both generalist and specialist parasites have been recognized within Trombidioidea. However, for the vast majority of species, the fragmentary data on host-parasite associations do not allow differentiation between common and exceptional hosts, apart from general preferences towards the host group. Hitherto recorded arthropod hosts, exploited by trombidioid larvae, are listed. Ecological data relating to measures of host-parasite interactions are summarized. Names of mites and their hosts are verified and updated and the recent affiliation to higher taxa is followed.
Constraints on ideal binary masking for the perception of spectrally-reduced speech
Authors: Montazeri Vahid , Assmann Peter F.
Published: July 2018

This study investigated recognition of sentences processed using ideal binary masking (IBM) with limited spectral resolution. Local thresholds (LCs) of −12, 0, and 5 dB were applied which altered the target and masker power following IBM. Recognition was reduced due to persistence of the masker and limited target recovery, thus preventing IBM from ideal target-masker segregation. Linear regression and principal component analyses showed that, regardless of masker type and number of spectral channels, higher LCs were associated with poorer recognition. In addition, limitations on target recovery led to more detrimental effects on speech recognition compared to persistence of the masker.
Effects of interaural delay, center frequency, and no more than “slight” hearing loss on precision of binaural processing: Empirical data and quantitative modeling
Authors: Bernstein Leslie R. , Trahiotis Constantine
Published: July 2018

This study assessed how precision of binaural processing is affected by center frequency (CF), interaural temporal disparity (ITD), and listeners' hearing status. Tonal signals and 100-Hz-wide Gaussian noise maskers were employed at CFs ranging between 250 and 8000 Hz, in octave steps. In addition, for CFs of 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz, transposed maskers and signals were employed. All listeners had no greater than “slight” hearing losses (i.e., no thresholds greater than 25 dB HL). Across all CFs and ITDs tested, binaural detection thresholds were elevated for listeners whose absolute thresholds at 4 kHz exceeded 7.5 dB HL. That outcome is consistent with results from Bernstein and Trahiotis [(2016). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 140, 3540–3548]. Quantitative predictions of binaural detection thresholds derived via a comprehensive interaural correlation-based model of binaural processing were highly accurate across the entire set of data. The modeling results suggest that elevated thresholds from listeners having small hearing losses stem from elevated levels of stimulus-dependent, additive internal noise. They do not appear to stem from increased levels of noise within the central binaural comparator or from reduced sensitivity to changes in interaural correlation produced by the addition of the signal to the masker.
A mid-Cretaceous embryonic-to-neonate snake in amber from Myanmar
Authors: Xing Lida , Caldwell Michael W. , Chen Rui , Nydam Randall L. , Palci Alessandro , Simões Tiago R. , McKellar Ryan C. , Lee Michael S. Y. , Liu Ye , Shi Hongliang , Wang Kuan , Bai Ming
Published: July 2018

The first known fossil baby snake (Late Cretaceous amber, Myanmar) shows that some ancient snakes lived in marginal marine forests.
Rotary-actuated folding polyhedrons for midwater investigation of delicate marine organisms
Authors: Teoh Zhi Ern , Phillips Brennan T. , Becker Kaitlyn P. , Whittredge Griffin , Weaver James C. , Hoberman Chuck , Gruber David F. , Wood Robert J.
Published: July 2018

A robot end effector uses one rotary actuator to fold the net of a dodecahedron, completely surrounding delicate mid-water organisms.
PP2A inhibition is a druggable MEK inhibitor resistance mechanism in KRAS-mutant lung cancer cells
Authors: Kauko Otto , O’Connor Caitlin M. , Kulesskiy Evgeny , Sangodkar Jaya , Aakula Anna , Izadmehr Sudeh , Yetukuri Laxman , Yadav Bhagwan , Padzik Artur , Laajala Teemu Daniel , Haapaniemi Pekka , Momeny Majid , Varila Taru , Ohlmeyer Michael , Aittokallio Tero , Wennerberg Krister , Narla Goutham , Westermarck Jukka
Published: July 2018

Pharmacological PP2A activation is a druggable approach to overcome MEK inhibitor resistance.
A cytokine duet regulates inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Zeng Hu
Published: July 2018

Inhibition of IL-17F, but not IL-17A, promotes microbiota-mediated regulatory T cell generation in the colon and ameliorates intestinal inflammation in mice.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Curative Benznidazole Treatment in Preventing Chronic Cardiac Pathology in Experimental Models of Chagas Disease
Authors: Francisco Amanda Fortes , Jayawardhana Shiromani , Taylor Martin C. , Lewis Michael D. , Kelly John M.
Published: July 2018

Chagasic heart disease develops in 30% of those infected with the protozoan parasite
Trypanosoma cruzi
, but can take decades to become symptomatic. Because of this, it has been difficult to assess the extent to which antiparasitic therapy can prevent the development of pathology.
Population Pharmacokinetics of the Antimalarial Amodiaquine: a Pooled Analysis To Optimize Dosing
Authors: Ali Ali Mohamed , Penny Melissa A. , Smith Thomas A. , Workman Lesley , Sasi Philip , Adjei George O. , Aweeka Francesca , Kiechel Jean-René , Jullien Vincent , Rijken Marcus J. , McGready Rose , Mwesigwa Julia , Kristensen Kim , Stepniewska Kasia , Tarning Joel , Barnes Karen I. , Denti Paolo ,   for the WWARN Amodiaquine PK Study Group Achille Massougbodji Adama Gansané Adicat Adeothy Agnés Aubouy Alphonse Ouedraogo Anna Annerberg Arnaud Bruneel Aung Pyae Phyo Aye Kyi Win A. Benakis Bamenla Q. Goka Bernard Gourmel Bernhards Ogutu Birgit Schramm Bryan McGee Caroline C. Morgan Charles Obonyo Charles S. Mazinda D. Parzy Elizabeth A. Ashley Elisabeth Baudin Elizabeth Juma Eric Comte Esperance B. Ouedraogo François Nosten F. Sugnaux Gilles Cottrell Grant Dorsey Gwenaelle Carn Hortense Kossou Hyacinthe
Published: July 2018

Amodiaquine plus artesunate is the recommended antimalarial treatment in many countries where malaria is endemic. However, pediatric doses are largely based on a linear extrapolation from adult doses.
Chronic Toxoplasma gondii Infection Induces Anti-N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptor Autoantibodies and Associated Behavioral Changes and Neuropathology
Authors: Li Ye , Viscidi Raphael P. , Kannan Geetha , McFarland Ross , Pletnikov Mikhail V. , Severance Emily G. , Yolken Robert H. , Xiao Jianchun
Published: July 2018

Anti-NMDA receptor (NMDAR) autoantibodies have been postulated to play a role in the pathogenesis of NMDAR hypofunction, which contributes to the etiology of psychotic symptoms.Toxoplasma gondiiis a pathogen implicated in psychiatric disorders and associated with elevation of NMDAR autoantibodies.
Monitoring Viral Genetic Variation as a Tool To Improve Molecular Diagnostics for Mumps Virus
Authors: Dilcher Meik , Barratt Kevin , Douglas Jennifer , Strathdee Andrew , Anderson Trevor , Werno Anja
Published: July 2018

Here, we report how the analysis of viral genetic variation using next-generation sequencing (NGS) can be used as a tool to improve mumps virus diagnostics. Analysis of NGS data from recently circulating mumps virus isolates allowed optimization of the current mumps virus real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) by primer and probe modifications due to nucleotide variations.
Two Conserved Amino Acids within the NSs of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Phlebovirus Are Essential for Anti-interferon Activity
Authors: Moriyama Miyu , Igarashi Manabu , Koshiba Takumi , Irie Takashi , Takada Ayato , Ichinohe Takeshi
Published: July 2018

Recognition of viruses by host innate immune systems plays a critical role not only in providing resistance to viral infection but also in the initiation of antigen-specific adaptive immune responses against viruses. Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by the SFTS phlebovirus (SFTSV), a highly pathogenic tick-borne phlebovirus. The 294-amino-acid nonstructural protein (NSs) of SFTSV associates with TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), a key regulator of host innate antiviral immunity, to inhibit interferon beta (IFN-β) production and enhance viral replication. Here, we demonstrate that two conserved amino acids at positions 21 and 23 in the NSs of SFTSV and heartland virus, another tick-borne phlebovirus, are essential for association with TBK1 and suppression of IFN-β production. Our results provide important insight into the molecular mechanisms by which SFTSV NSs helps to counteract host antiviral strategies.
High-Quality Draft Genome Sequences of Eight Bacteria Isolated from Fungus Gardens Grown by Trachymyrmex septentrionalis Ants
Authors: Kopac Sarah , Beatty Hannah , Gialopsos Philip , Huntemann Marcel , Clum Alicia , Spunde Alexander , Pillay Manoj , Palaniappan Krishnaveni , Varghese Neha , Mikhailova Natalia , Stamatis Dimitrios , Reddy T. B. K. , Daum Chris , Ng Vivian , Ivanova Natalia , Kyrpides Nikos , Woyke Tanja , Klassen Jonathan L.
Published: July 2018

For their food source,
Trachymyrmex septentrionalis
ants raise symbiotic fungus gardens that contain bacteria whose functions are poorly understood. Here, we report the genome sequences of eight bacteria isolated from these fungus gardens to better describe the ecology of these strains and their potential to produce secondary metabolites in this niche.
Increasing income-based inequality in suicide mortality among working-age women and men, Sweden, 1990–2007: is there a point of trend change?
Authors: Hiyoshi Ayako , Kondo Naoki , Rostila Mikael
Published: July 2018

Background

Income inequalities have risen from the 1990s to 2000s, following the economic recession in 1994, but little research has investigated socioeconomic inequalities in suicide mortality for working-age men and women (aged between 30 and 64 years) over the time using longitudinal data in Sweden.

Methods

Using Swedish national register data between 1990 and 2007 as a series of repeated cohort studies with a 3-year follow-up (sample sizes were approximately 3.7 to 4.0 million in each year), relative and slope indices of inequality (RII and SII respectively) based on quintiles of individual disposable income were calculated and tested for temporal trends.

Results

SII for the risk of suicide mortality ranged from 27.6 (95% CI 19.5 to 35.8) to 44.5 (36.3 to 52.6) in men and 5.2 (0.2 to 10.4) to 16.6 (10.7 to 22.4) in women (per 100 000 population). In men, temporal trends in suicide inequalities were stable in SII but increasing in RII by 3% each year (p=0.002). In women, inequalities tended to increase in both RII and SII, especially after the late-1990s, with 10% increment in RII per year (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Despite universal social security and generous welfare provision, income inequalities in suicide were considerable and have widened, especially in women. The steeper rise in women may be partially related to higher job insecurity and poorer working conditions in the female dominated public sector after the recession. To reduce health consequences following an economic crisis and widened income inequalities, additional measures may be necessary in proportion to the levels of financial vulnerability.
1 Simultaneous trauma patients in emergency departments: a difference in mortality?
Authors: Morrow L , Nutbeam T , Bouamra O
Published: July 2018

Background

The presentation of multiple simultaneous trauma patients to an Emergency Department is likely to place significant stress and strain on trauma care resources. Currently there is limited literature and no UK or multicentre data available to understand this impact. The aim of this study was to identify patient outcomes when there are simultaneous major trauma patients. We hypothesised that with increasing numbers of simultaneous trauma patients an increase in mortality may be seen.

Methods

The Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) database was interrogated from 2010–2015 to identify simultaneous major trauma patients. We defined simultaneous trauma as occurring when there was more than one trauma patient within an Emergency Department at any one time.

Patient age, sex, Glasgow Coma Scale and Injury Severity Score (ISS) were recorded. A standardised comparison using a stratified Ws statistic was conducted to compare mortality between groups. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital and intensive care (ICU) stay.

Results

Of 2 07 094 patients, 33.7% were eligible simultaneous trauma patients. 55.7% of patients were male, median age was 61 and median ISS was 9. No increase in mortality was seen with increasing patient numbers (table 1).

Abstract 1 Table 1

Ws statistic with increasing simultaneous patient numbers

Isolated2 patients3 patients4 patients5 patients6+patientsTotal1 37 360 51 466 13 820 3539 671 185 Ws statistic0.05 0.38 0.72 0.53 0.39 2.70

A statistically significant increase in length of ICU stay was observed for the 6+patient category (p=0.047) but no difference was reported in hospital stay.

Conclusion

The impact of simultaneous trauma patients on patient outcomes within the UK has not been previously defined. Simultaneous trauma patients do not appear to have an impact on mortality (as measured by Ws statistic).
Cerebral catheter angiography and its complications
Authors: Alakbarzade Vafa , Pereira Anthony C
Published: July 2018

Catheter-based angiography is an important but invasive procedure in vascular neurology. It is used mainly for diagnosis and for planning treatment in patients with a suspected underlying vascular abnormality. It is often performed as a semiurgent, planned investigation or linked to an interventional procedure. Cerebral angiography provides high-resolution, three-dimensional, pathoanatomical data about the cerebral vasculature and also allows real-time analysis of blood flow. Contrast injections can be repeated to identify subtleties. A physical intervention may also follow angiography. For these reasons, angiography remains the gold standard for delineating vascular lesions of the brain (and spine). Permanent neurological complications are rare, approximately 1%, but become increasingly common in patients aged over 55 years. The main complications are embolic stroke, groin haematoma and contrast-induced nephropathy. In the new era of thrombectomy, it may transpire that other specialists including neurologists may learn to perform the procedure and to manage its complications.
Change in biomarkers of type-2 inflammation following severe exacerbations of asthma
Authors: Semprini Ruth , Shortt Nick , Ebmeier Stefan , Semprini Alex , Varughese Rachel , Holweg Cecile T J , Matthews John G , Fingleton James , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard , Braithwaite Irene
Published: July 2018

We investigated the time course of change of type-2 asthma biomarkers after a severe asthma exacerbation. Blood eosinophils were lowest immediately after treatment was initiated (0.07 vs 0.33×109/L, p<0.001) while serum IgE levels were at their highest (339 vs 249 U/L, p<0.001). Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide levels were lowest 2 weeks after treatment (23 vs 33 ppb, p=0.06) and serum periostin levels were lowest 1 week after treatment (45·9 vs 50·9 ng/mL, p<0.001). A delay of 4–8 weeks following a severe exacerbation is required if these biomarkers are used to guide the ongoing management of patients with asthma.

Trial registration number

Post-results; The Australia New Zealand Trial Registry, >ACTRN12614000443695.
Paraneoplastic immune-mediated neutropenia in a dog following thymoma excision with later development of metastatic thymic carcinoma treated with toceranib phosphate
Authors: O'Connell Erin , Harper Aaron , Blundell Richard , Batchelor Daniel
Published: July 2018

A thymoma was an incidental finding in a seven-year-old, female neutered, crossbred dog referred for an acute hepatopathy. Excision of the thymoma was performed via median sternotomy, and 11 weeks later the dog presented with severe neutropenia. The bone marrow was hypercellular, and paraneoplastic immune-mediated neutropenia was diagnosed following exclusion of other causes. The neutrophil count increased to normal within seven days of treatment with prednisolone, which was subsequently tapered. A caudal mediastinal mass was documented 17 months following initial thymoma excision, and pleural and mediastinal metastases were evident on CT. Cytology was consistent with carcinoma. Following the prescription of toceranib phosphate, there was stable disease on CT at eight weeks and six months. At 12 months there was severe locoregional progression and the dog died nine days thereafter. Postmortem examination showed diffuse metastatic carcinoma of the caudal mediastinum, parietal pleura and diaphragm, and histopathology/immunohistochemistry was most consistent with thymic carcinoma.
Surgical correction of severe dorsal tracheal membrane redundancy in a Belgian shepherd dog
Authors: Focsaneanu Vlad , Nelissen Pieter , Tappin Simon
Published: July 2018

A two-year-old working Belgian shepherd dog was referred for diagnosis and management of a chronic cough, exercise intolerance and inspiratory stridor. A diagnosis of severe dorsal tracheal membrane redundancy was made based on radiography and tracheoscopy. Vomiting, weight loss and lethargy were also reported at initial presentation presumed secondary to dietary indiscretion, which was supported by the identification of undigested bones in the stomach on radiographs and ultrasound; these signs resolved with symptomatic treatment. The patient had previously been diagnosed with primary immune-mediated polyarthritis and had responded well to immunomodulatory medication. To correct the narrowing of the tracheal lumen, the dorsal tracheal membrane was plicated surgically, improving the tracheal diameter postoperatively. Twelve weeks later the dog had returned to full exercise, and the handler reported excellent exercise tolerance and no cough. Plication of excessive dorsal tracheal membrane is one possible treatment option for dogs with severe dorsal tracheal membrane redundancy.
Can soil clay content predict ammonia volatilization losses from subsurface-banded urea in eastern Canadian soils?
Authors: Pelster D.E. , Chantigny M.H. , Angers D.A. , Bertrand N. , MacDonald J.D. , Rochette P.
Published: July 2018

To determine how soil physical and chemical characteristics affect NH3 volatilization, we measured NH3 losses from eight different eastern Canadian soils with various soil clay contents and cation exchange capacities (CEC). Losses were measured from soil mesocosms banded (0.05 m depth) with urea (equivalent of 140 kg N ha−1) in a dynamic chamber system fitted with an acid trap; with soil properties measured in parallel mesocosms. Regression analysis indicated a negative relationship between 28 d of NH3 volatilization losses and soil clay content (P < 0.001; R2 = 0.978), CEC (P < 0.001; R2 = 0.941), and buffer capacity (P = 0.006; R2 = 0.772), and positive relations with maximum change in soil pH (P = 0.015; R2 = 0.670) and maximum water-extractable NH4+ (P = 0.010; R2 = 0.721). A 90% reduction in NH3 losses occurred when clay content increased from 10% to 20%. Also, the correlation between water-extractable NH4+ and NH3 loss and a lack of correlation between salt-extractable (1 mol L−1 KCl) NH4+ and NH3 loss indicate that NH4+ bound to cation exchange sites does not contribute to the rapid NH3 volatilization. However, more research on soils of different mineralogy is required to ascertain whether this holds in other regions as well.
DOES POPULATION AGING INCREASE PORK TRADE IN ASIA?
Authors: TAO HONGJUN , ZHAO LIANG , LUCKSTEAD JEFF , XIE CHAOPING
Published: July 2018

This paper estimates the impact of population aging on bilateral pork trade between 32 Asian countries (regions) by using a gravity model that incorporates old-age dependency ratio variables. The Poisson pseudo-maximum-likelihood regression performs better than the ordinary least-squares method in the estimations. An aging labor force stimulates pork exports because it reduces pork production costs by supplying the pork industry with low-wage older laborers. An aging consumer-based economy increases pork imports because older consumers usually have higher incomes. Population aging has both a time characteristic and a country characteristic on pork trade in Asia. Increasing birth rates and reforming the pork industry from the supply side are two feasible policy recommendations for aging Asian countries (regions).
WHY PARTICIPATE IN THE “ONE BELT AND ONE ROAD” INITIATIVE? AN INCOME CONVERGENCE APPROACH
Authors: HU GUO HENG , LAU CHI-KEUNG MARCO , LU ZHOU , SHENG XIN
Published: July 2018

This paper seeks to investigate the motivations of countries that participate in the One Belt and One Road (B&R) Initiative, a China-led economic development program with the intention of enhancing regional economic cooperation. We examine the income convergence hypothesis for B&R countries with both linear and nonlinear unit root tests to detect the presence of economic integration over the periods 1960–2016 and 1979–2016. For the B&R countries that are found to show income convergence to China in our income convergence testing, we argue that they tend to have a strong existing economic relationship with China. By contrast, the countries that have relatively weak economic relationships with China tend to show no convergence to China, and they take advantage of the B&R as an opportunity to catch up. Moreover, we find evidence that more countries converge to China’s real per capita income for the years after 1978 when China started its transition to a market economy and initiated the open-door policy to embrace globalization. The results suggest that China contributes to a higher degree of income convergence in regional integration.
An Efficient Saliency Detection Model Based on Wavelet Generalized Lifting
Authors: Zhong Xin , Shih Frank Y.
Published: July 2018

Saliency detection refers to the segmentation of all visually conspicuous objects from various backgrounds. The purpose is to produce an object-mask that overlaps the salient regions annotated by human vision. In this paper, we propose an efficient bottom-up saliency detection model based on wavelet generalized lifting. It requires no kernels with implicit assumptions and prior knowledge. Multiscale wavelet analysis is performed on broadly tuned color feature channels to include a wide range of spatial-frequency information. A nonlinear wavelet filter bank is designed to emphasize the wavelet coefficients, and then a saliency map is obtained through linear combination of the enhanced wavelet coefficients. This full-resolution saliency map uniformly highlights multiple salient objects of different sizes and shapes. An object-mask is constructed by the adaptive thresholding scheme on the saliency maps. Experimental results show that the proposed model outperforms the existing state-of-the-art competitors on two benchmark datasets.
A Mobile Node Localization Algorithm Based on the Angle Self-Adjustment Model for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Kangshun , Wang Hui , Tang Fei , Li Wei , Lu Yunru
Published: July 2018

The goal of this study is to improve the accuracy of mobile node localization and to avoid the influence of moving direction-offsets introduced by the positioning system’s accuracy control. The proposed localization algorithm, which is based on an overlap self-adjustment method, and an anchor node selection mechanism which uses the Gaussian elimination method, is based on the error probability. The proposed algorithm has the advantages of requiring little prior information, and it reduces the power consumption. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is better than the self-adjustment localization (SAL) algorithm in terms of its localization accuracy.
Convolutional Neural Networks for Steganalysis via Transfer Learning
Authors: Tian Juan , Li Yingxiang
Published: July 2018

Recently, a large number of studies have shown that Convolutional Neural Networks are effective for learning features automatically for steganalysis. This paper uses the transfer learning method to help the training of CNNs for steganalysis. First, a Gaussian high-pass filter is designed for pretreatment of the images, that can enhance the weak stego noise in the stegos. Then, the classical Inception-V3 model is improved, and the improved network is used for steganalysis through the method of transfer learning. In order to test the effectiveness of the developed model, two spatial domain content-adaptive steganographic algorithms WOW and S-UNIWARD are used. The results imply that the proposed CNN achieves a better performance at low embedding rates compared with the SRM with ensemble classifiers and the SPAM implemented with a Gaussian SVM on BOSSbase. Finally, a steganalysis system based on the trained model was designed. Through experiments, the generalization ability of the system was tested and discussed.
Multispectral Palmprint Recognition: A Survey and Comparative Study
Authors: Aberni Yassir , Boubchir Larbi , Daachi Boubaker
Published: July 2018

Multispectral palmprint recognition has been investigated for many problems and applications over the last decade. It has become one of the most well-known biometric recognition systems. Its success is due to the rich features that can be extracted and exploited from the multispectral images of palmprint captured within specific wavelength ranges across the electromagnetic spectrum. This paper provides an overview of recent state-of-the-art multispectral palmprint approaches for person recognition. The approaches surveyed are discussed by describing, in particular, their feature extraction, feature fusion, matching and decision algorithms. Finally, a comparative study to evaluate their performances for both verification and identification modes is addressed.
EFFECT OF SEEDING FILM TYPE ON MORPHOLOGY AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF Ga-DOPED ZnO NANOSTRUCTURES GROWN BY HYDROTHERMAL PROCESS
Authors: CHONGSRI KRISANA , BOONYARATTANAKALIN KANOKTHIP , PECHARAPA WISANU
Published: July 2018

In the present work, we are interested in modifying the structures and electrical properties of Ga-doped ZnO (GZO) nanostructures by incorporation of Ga and F elements into ZnO seeding films. The ZnO, Ga-doped ZnO and F-doped ZnO thin film layers were grown by sol–gel dip coating onto glass substrates. The GZO nanostructures were grown by hydrothermal method starting from zinc nitrate and gallium (III) nitrate hydrate with a crystal growth assistance using the different types of seeding film layers. The X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) are observe for the crystal structures and surface morphologies of GZO nanostructures. The changes in electrical resistance of the GZO nanostructures due to the different seeding layers were analyzed by the four-point probe technique. It is shown that the structural and electrical properties are found to be affected by the types of seeding layers.
Absorption and order parameter dependency to temperature and poling field in polymer-dye films oriented by corona poling
Authors: Ahmadi Nader , Kheradmand Reza , Kavaz Esra
Published: July 2018

Second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) effects can be observed in materials with noncentro symmetric structures. In order to achieve such structure in the initially isotropic-doped polymer films, they were aligned in an electric field during heating up to the glass transition temperature. In this experimental work, we studied the NLO thin film properties of azo dye as guest molecules oriented in a polymer host by corona-onset poling. Also, the orientational order of nonlinear molecules is measured. We have shown that corona-onset poling at elevated temperature (COPET) is effective in orienting optically nonlinear guest molecules in a host polymer.
IMPROMPTU: A Reactive and Distributed Resource Consolidation Manager for Clouds
Authors: Yazır Yağız Onat , Guitouni Adel , Neville Stephen W. , Farahbod Roozbeh
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we present IMPROMPTU, a distributed resource consolidation manager for larger-scale commodity computing clouds. The main contribution of this work is two-fold. First, IMPROMPTU fully distributes the responsibility of resource consolidation management among autonomous node agents that have a one-to-one mapping with the physical machines in the cloud. Second, autonomous node agents manage virtual to physical machine resource consolidation using multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) through PROMETHEE II method. MCDA has been previously used within the context of computing systems, particularly in fields such as multi-agent systems, data mining, and wireless communications. However, to the best of our knowledge, IMPROMPTU represents the first fully distributed MCDA approach applied to the problem of autonomous resource consolidation management for commodity computing clouds. Moreover, IMPROMPTU improves on our previous studies by introducing key extensions to enhance the granularity of the MCDA model. Simulation results show that the proposed solution provides a strong alternative to prior resource consolidation management approaches for the key industry problem of mitigating SLA violations. This establishes solid groundwork for further applications and extensions of MCDA to this important problem domain.
Design and Kinematic Analysis of Co-Exoskeleton with Passive Translational Joints for Upper-Limb Rehabilitation
Authors: Zhang Leiyu , Li Jianfeng , Liu Junhui , Su Peng , Zhang Chunzhao
Published: July 2018

A key approach for reducing motor impairment and regaining independence after spinal cord injuries or strokes is frequent and repetitive functional training. A compatible exoskeleton (Co-Exoskeleton) with four passive translational joints is proposed for the upper-limb rehabilitation. There are only three passive translational joints to track and assist movements of the glenohumeral joint (GH), where two joints are installed horizontally at the front section and another one at the connecting interface of the upper arm. This type of configuration can lower the influences of gravities of the exoskeleton device and upper extremity. The kinematic models of GH and the corresponding human–machine system are established using the analytical method. A numerical simulation of the kinematic models is implemented with MATLAB to emphatically analyze the kinematic characteristics of passive joints and the center of Co-Exoskeleton. The translational displacements of passive joints in four elevation planes are obtained during the elevating process. The results of the kinematic analysis show that the passive joints have similar motion characteristics under different elevation planes. Additionally, the position changes of GH in three directions can be tracked and compensated approximately. Co-Exoskeleton has an especially good compensation effect for the vertical movement of GH. The compensation effect and kinematic models are verified by using the elevating experiments. This research provides theoretical and methodological guidance for the ergonomic design and kinematic analysis of the rehabilitation exoskeleton.
Quantum Filtering Equations for a System Driven by Nonclassical Fields
Authors: Da̧browska Anita
Published: July 2018

Using Gardiner and Collet’s input-output model and the concept of cascade system, we determine the filtering equation for a quantum system driven by light in some specific nonclassical states. The quantum system and electromagnetic field are described by making use of quantum stochastic unitary evolution. We consider two examples of the nonclassical states of field: a combination of vacuum and single photon states and a mixture of two coherent states. The stochastic evolution conditioned on the results of the photon counting and quadrature measurements is described.
Intravital imaging of adriamycin-induced renal pathology using two-photon microscopy and optical coherence tomography
Authors: Guo Hengchang , Wang Hsing-Wen , Tang Qinggong , Anderson Erik , Falola Reuben , Smith Tikina , Liu Yi , Levi Moshe , Andrews Peter M. , Chen Yu
Published: July 2018

Adriamycin (doxorubicin), a common cancer chemotherapeutic drug, can be used to induce a model of chronic progressive glomerular disease in rodents. In our studies, we evaluated renal changes in a rat model after Adriamycin injection using two-photon microscopy (TPM), optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Doppler OCT (DOCT). Taking advantage of deep penetration and fast scanning speed for three-dimensional (3D) label-free imaging, OCT/DOCT system was able to reveal glomerular and tubular pathology noninvasively and in real time. By imaging renal pathology following the infusion of fluorophore-labeled dextrans of different molecular weights, TPM can provide direct views of glomerular and tubular flow dynamics with the onset and progression of renal disease. Specifically, glomerular permeability and filtration, proximal and distal tubular flow dynamics can be revealed. 6–8 weeks after injection of Adriamycin, TPM and OCT/DOCT imaging revealed glomerular sclerosis, compromised flow across the glomerular wall, tubular atrophy, tubular dilation, and variable intra-tubular flow dynamics. Our results indicate that TPM and OCT/DOCT provide real-time imaging of renal pathology in vivo that has not been previously available using conventional microscopic procedures.
A primal-dual interior-point method based on a new kernel function for linear complementarity problem
Authors: Djeffal El Amir , Laouar Mounia
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we present an interior-point algorithm for solving an optimization problem using the central path method. By an equivalent reformulation of the central path, we obtain a new search direction which targets at a small neighborhood of the central path. For a full-Newton step interior-point algorithm based on this search direction, the complexity bound of the algorithm is the best known for linear complementarity problem. For its numerical tests, some strategies are used and indicate that the algorithm is efficient.
Are different Martian gully morphologies due to different processes on the Kaiser dune field?
Authors: Pasquon Kelly , Gargani Julien , Nachon Marion , Conway Susan J. , Massé Marion , Jouannic Gwenaël , Balme Matthew R. , Costard François , Vincendon Mathieu
Published: July 2018

We describe and compare the morphology and activity of two types of gullies with different orientations collocated on the Kaiser dune field in the southern hemisphere of Mars: large apron gullies and linear dune gullies. The activity of large apron gullies follows an annual cycle: (i) material collapse into the alcove (mid-autumn/late winter) as CO
2
condenses; (ii) remobilization by mass flows (late winter); and (iii) continuous appearance of hundreds of ‘digitate flows’ on the fan (autumn/winter). We find that large apron gullies could form in hundreds of Martian years. In contrast, linear dune gullies are active briefly in late winter, when the CO
2
frost disappears. Their activity is characterized by the extension of channels, the creation of pits and the darkening of the surface. Linear dune gullies are likely to form within one to tens of Martian years. We infer that insolation, which influences the depth to ground ice and the amount of volatile deposited, may be the factor differentiating large apron gullies and linear dune gullies. Sediment transport by CO
2
sublimation is a good candidate for the activity observed in all of these features. However, linear gullies could also be formed by brine release when the temperature rises abruptly after the removal of the CO
2
ice.
Disruption of theIgf2gene alters hepatic lipid homeostasis and gene expression in the newborn mouse
Authors: Lopez Mary Frances , Zheng Lingyun , Miao Ji , Gali Reddy , Gorski Grzegorz , Hirschhorn Joel N.
Published: July 2018

Newborns with intrauterine growth-restriction are at increased risk of mortality and life-long comorbidities. Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF2) deficiency in humans, as well as in mice, leads to intrauterine growth restriction and decreased neonatal glycogen stores. The present study aims to further characterize the metabolic and transcriptional consequences of Igf2 deficiency in the newborn. We found that, despite being born significantly smaller than their wild-type ( Igf2+/+) littermates, brain size was preserved in Igf2 knockout ( Igf2−/−), consistent with nutritional deficiency. Histological and triglyceride analyses of newborn livers revealed that Igf2−/−mice are born with hepatic steatosis. Gene expression analysis in Igf2−/−newborn livers showed an alteration of genes known to be dysregulated in chronic caloric restriction, including the most upregulated gene, serine dehydratase. Multiple genes connected with lipid metabolism and/or hepatic steatosis were also upregulated. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis confirmed that the biological functions most altered in livers of Igf2−/−newborns are related to lipid metabolism, with the top upstream regulator predicted to be the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, a master regulator of hepatic lipid and carbohydrate homeostasis. Together, our data indicate that Igf2 deficiency leads to a newborn phenotype strongly reminiscent of nutritional deficiency, including growth retardation, increased brain/body weight ratio, hepatic steatosis, and characteristic changes in hepatic gene expression. We propose that in addition to its growth factor proliferating functions, Igf2 may also regulate growth by altering the expression of genes that control nutrient metabolism in the newborn.
Dynein 1 supports spermatid transport and spermiation during spermatogenesis in the rat testis
Authors: Wen Qing , Tang Elizabeth I. , Lui Wing-yee , Lee Will M. , Wong Chris K. C. , Silvestrini Bruno , Cheng C. Yan
Published: July 2018

In the mammalian testis, spermatogenesis is dependent on the microtubule (MT)-specific motor proteins, such as dynein 1, that serve as the engine to support germ cell and organelle transport across the seminiferous epithelium at different stages of the epithelial cycle. Yet the underlying molecular mechanism(s) that support this series of cellular events remain unknown. Herein, we used RNAi to knockdown cytoplasmic dynein 1 heavy chain (Dync1h1) and an inhibitor ciliobrevin D to inactivate dynein in Sertoli cells in vitro and the testis in vivo, thereby probing the role of dynein 1 in spermatogenesis. Both treatments were shown to extensively induce disruption of MT organization across Sertoli cells in vitro and the testis in vivo. These changes also perturbed the transport of spermatids and other organelles (such as phagosomes) across the epithelium. These changes thus led to disruption of spermatogenesis. Interestingly, the knockdown of dynein 1 or its inactivation by ciliobrevin D also perturbed gross disruption of F-actin across the Sertoli cells in vitro and the seminiferous epithelium in vivo, illustrating there are cross talks between the two cytoskeletons in the testis. In summary, these findings confirm the role of cytoplasmic dynein 1 to support the transport of spermatids and organelles across the seminiferous epithelium during the epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis.