bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits and harms of intensive glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rodriguez-Gutierrez René , Gonzalez-Gonzalez José Gerardo , Zuñiga-Hernandez Jorge A , McCoy Rozalina G
Published: November 2019

Diabetes is a major and costly health concern worldwide, with high morbidity, disability, mortality, and impaired quality of life. The vast majority of people living with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. Historically, the main strategy to reduce complications of type 2 diabetes has been intensive glycemic control. However, the body of evidence shows no meaningful benefit of intensive (compared with moderate) glycemic control for microvascular and macrovascular outcomes important to patients, with the exception of reduced rates of non-fatal myocardial infarction. Intensive glycemic control does, however, increase the risk of severe hypoglycemia and incurs additional burden by way of polypharmacy, side effects, and cost. Additionally, data from cardiovascular outcomes trials showed that cardiovascular, kidney, and mortality outcomes may be improved with use of specific classes of glucose lowering drugs largely independently of their glycemic effects. Therefore, delivering evidence based, patient centered care to people with type 2 diabetes requires a paradigm shift and departure from the predominantly glucocentric view of diabetes management. Instead of prioritizing intensive glycemic control, the focus needs to be on ensuring access to adequate diabetes care, aligning glycemic targets to patients’ goals and situations, minimizing short term and long term complications, reducing the burden of treatment, and improving quality of life.
Maternal reproductive history and premenopausal risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease: a Danish cohort study
Authors: Chen Shannon X , Rasmussen Kathleen M , Finkelstein Julia , Støvring H , Nøhr Ellen Aa , Kirkegaard Helene
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The metabolic changes of pregnancy resemble a cardiovascular risk profile and may persist postpartum, with body mass index (BMI) as a potential modifier. We examined the association between the number of live-birth pregnancies and maternal premenopausal risks of hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD), accounting for pre-pregnancy BMI as well as abortions and stillbirths.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

Mothers from the Danish National Birth Cohort (1996 to 2002). For each of these women, registry data on all pregnancies from 1973 to 2011 were obtained, as were self-reported pre-pregnancy weight and height.

Participants

A total of 44 552 first-time mothers in the Danish National Birth Cohort.

Outcome measures

Risks of hypertension and CVD during and between live-birth pregnancies separately and combined as live-birth cycles.

Results

After adjustment for abortions, stillbirths, pre-pregnancy BMI and other covariates, a higher risk of hypertension was observed in the first (HR 1.53, 95% CI: 1.37 to 1.72) and fourth and subsequent live-birth cycles (HR 1.72, 95% CI: 1.15 to 2.58), compared with the second. However, as number of live-birth pregnancies increased, risk of hypertension decreased during live-birth pregnancies and increased between live-birth pregnancies (tests for trend, p<0.01). For CVD, we found an overall J-shaped but non-significant association with number of live-birth pregnancies. No interaction with pre-pregnancy BMI (<25 versus ≥25 kg/m2) was observed.

Conclusions

Premenopausal women had the highest risk of hypertension and CVD during their first live-birth pregnancy and after their fourth live-birth pregnancy. All risks were independent of BMI before the first live-birth pregnancy and of number of abortions and stillbirths.
Housing affordability effects on physical and mental health: household survey in a population with the world’s greatest housing affordability stress
Authors: Chung Roger Yat-Nork , Chung Gary Ka-Ki , Gordon David , Mak Jonathan Ka-Long , Zhang Ling-Fei , Chan Dicken , Lai Francisco Tsz Tsun , Wong Hung , Wong Samuel Yeung-Shan
Published: November 2019

Background

We examined the association of housing affordability with physical and mental health in Hong Kong, where there is a lack of related research despite having the worst housing affordability problem in the world, considering potential mediating effect of deprivation.

Methods

A stratified random sample of 1978 Hong Kong adults were surveyed. Housing affordability was defined using the residual-income (after housing costs) approach. Health-related quality of life was assessed by the Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-12v2), from which the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) measures were derived. Multivariable linear regressions were performed to assess associations of housing affordability with PCS and MCS scores, adjusting for sociodemographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors. Mediation analyses were also conducted to assess the mediating role of deprivation on the effect of housing affordability on PCS or MCS.

Results

Dose–response relationships were observed between housing affordability and mean PCS score (β(95% CI) compared with the highest affordable fourth quartile: −2.53 (−4.05 to −1.01), −2.23 (−3.54 to −0.92), −0.64 (−1.80 to 0.51) for the first, second and third quartiles, respectively) and mean MCS score (β(95% CI): −3.87 (−5.30 to –2.45), −2.35 (−3.59 to −1.11), −1.28 (−2.40 to –0.17) for the first, second and third quartiles, respectively). Deprivation mediated 34.3% of the impact of housing unaffordability on PCS and 15.8% of that on MCS.

Conclusions

Housing affordability affects physical and mental health, partially through deprivation, suggesting that housing policies targeting deprived individuals may help reduce health inequality in addition to targeting the housing affordability problem.
Clinical characterisation of sensory neuropathy with anti-FGFR3 autoantibodies
Authors: Tholance Yannick , Moritz Christian Peter , Rosier Carole , Ferraud Karine , Lassablière François , Reynaud-Federspiel Evelyne , França Jr Marcondes C , Martinez Alberto R M , Camdessanché Jean-Philippe , Antoine Jean-Christophe
Published: November 2019

Objective

Sensory neuropathies (SNs) are often classified as idiopathic even if immunological mechanisms can be suspected. Antibodies against the intracellular domain of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) possibly identify a subgroup of SN affecting mostly the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The aim of this study was to identify the frequency of anti-FGFR3 antibodies and the associated clinical pattern in a large cohort of patients with SN.

Methods

A prospective, multicentric, European and Brazilian study included adults with pure SN. Serum anti-FGRF3 antibodies were analysed by ELISA. Detailed clinical and paraclinical data were collected for each anti-FGFR3-positive patient and as control for anti-FGFR3-negative patients from the same centres (‘center-matched’).

Results

Sixty-five patients out of 426 (15%) had anti-FGFR3 antibodies, which were the only identified autoimmune markers in 43 patients (66%). The neuropathy was non-length dependent in 89% and classified as sensory neuronopathy in 64%, non-length-dependent small fibre neuropathy in 17% and other neuropathy in 19%. Specific clinical features occurred after 5–6 years of evolution including frequent paresthesia, predominant clinical and electrophysiological involvement of the lower limbs, and a less frequent mixed large and small fibre involvement. Brazilians had a higher frequency of anti-FGFR3 antibodies than Europeans (36% vs 13%, p<0.001), and a more frequent asymmetrical distribution of symptoms (OR 169, 95% CI 3.4 to 8424).

Conclusions

Anti-FGFR3 antibodies occur in a subgroup of SN probably predominantly affecting the DRG. Differences between Europeans and Brazilians could suggest involvement of genetic or environmental factors.
Influence of age, laterality, patient position, and spinal level on the interlamina space for spinal puncture
Authors: Bae Jinyoung , Park Sun-Kyung , Yoo Seokha , Lim Young-Jin , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: November 2019

Background and objectives

The lumbar interlamina space height is an important determinant of successful spinal puncture. We aimed to evaluate the influence of age, laterality, patient position, and spinal level on the height of the interlamina window using ultrasonography.

Methods

Ultrasonographic examination was performed in 20 adult patients aged under 40 years (group Y) and 20 patients aged over 60 years (group O). We set three primary outcomes: difference in the interlamina height of the ligamentum flavum-dura mater complex (LFD) according to (1) age, (2) laterality, and (3) position. For secondary outcomes, the degree of ultrasonography visualization (poor, intermediate, or good) and the depths from the skin to LFD and to anterior complex were also measured on right and left paramedian sagittal oblique view in both lateral and sitting positions at L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 levels. All variables were analyzed in association with age, laterality, patient position, and spinal level.

Results

The interlamina height of LFD was higher, and the degree of visualization was better in group Y than in group O. It differed depending on laterality in paramedian sagittal oblique view images in the same patients at all spinal levels. The interlamina height of LFD was the largest at L5/S1 level in both groups. Position had little influence on the interlamina height of LFD.

Conclusions

Scanning both sides and all spinal levels before selecting a puncture site for ultrasound-guided spinal anesthesia is recommended. The L5/S1 spinal level is a good option for spinal puncture in the elderly.

Trial registration number

NCT03929874.
Quantitative study on energy dissipation mechanism of metal rubber by an enhanced turbulence model
Authors: Zhou Zhuo , Wu Jiu Hui , Liang Xiao , Lin Mei , Yuan Xiao Yang
Published: November 2019

This paper studies the energy dissipation of metal rubber with an enhanced turbulence model. Based on the catastrophe theory which is a highly generalized mathematical tool, a new method for studying turbulence is proposed, which can quantitatively analyze the energy dissipation of the whole turbulence developed to process and strictly deduce the expression of the energy spectrum density in different turbulence development stages. Then, a theoretical model of sound absorption performance in full-frequency is established by this enhanced turbulence model. Furthermore, the sound absorption property and energy dissipation of metal rubber are studied under different structural parameters. This paper not only demonstrates −10/9 and −5/3 power laws of the energy spectrum but also finds −3 power laws at high frequencies. Finally, the accuracy of the enhanced turbulence model and the feasibility of the metal rubber research method based on the enhanced turbulence model are verified by wind tunnel test and standing wave tube test, respectively. This study not only has a theoretical guidance for the preparation of metal rubber but also has a new perspective for the study of turbulent phase transition and even other complex phase transitions.
PREDICTED MODEL OF RELATIVE PERMEABILITY CONSIDERING WATER DISTRIBUTION CHARACTERISTICS IN TIGHT SANDSTONE GAS RESERVOIRS
Authors: FU JINGANG , SU YULIANG , LI LEI , HAO YONGMAO , WANG WENDONG
Published: November 2019

A novel predictive model for calculating relative permeability was derived based on a capillary tube model with fractal theory. Different forms of immovable water including water film (WF) and microcapillary water were incorporated in the new model. Special immovable water called lost dynamic water (LDW) was introduced in the proposed model. The results of verification show that there is agreement between the calculated results and the published experimental data and analytical model. The results indicated that the effect of LDW, WF, and stress dependence had a significant influence on the relative permeability, which cannot be neglected. A larger LDW coefficient, more dead-end pores, and corners in porous media yielded a more complex pore structure. Therefore, more water was trapped in the pore and became connate water, resulting in higher gas relative permeability and lower water relative permeability at a given water saturation. Due to the microcapillary effect, the relative permeability of the water/gas increased/decreased as the drawdown pressure increased at the same water saturation. Higher effective stress was more likely to cause rock deformation, resulting in higher gas relative permeability and lower water relative permeability at a given water saturation. This study provides a significant reference for reservoir engineers conducting water and gas two-phase flow analysis. The theoretical model is beneficial for research into the interpolation of relative permeability via numerical simulation.
ORTHOGONAL EXPONENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE PLANAR SELF-AFFINE MEASURES WITH FOUR DIGITS
Authors: SU JUAN , WANG ZHI-YONG , CHEN MING-LIANG
Published: November 2019

For the self-affine measure [Formula: see text] generated by an expanding matrix [Formula: see text] and an integer digit set [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], Su et al. proved that if [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] contains an infinite orthogonal set of exponential functions if and only if [Formula: see text] [J. Su, Y. Liu and J. C. Liu, Non-spectrality of the planar self-affine measures with four-element digit sets, Fractals (2019), https://doi.org/10.1142/S0218348X19501159 ]. In this paper, we show that the above conclusion also holds for [Formula: see text]. So, a complete characterization of [Formula: see text] containing an infinite orthogonal set of exponential functions is given.
HYDRAULIC AND THERMAL PERFORMANCES OF LAMINAR FLOW IN FRACTAL TREELIKE BRANCHING MICROCHANNEL NETWORK WITH WALL VELOCITY SLIP
Authors: JING DALEI , SONG JIAN , SUI YI
Published: November 2019

This work theoretically studies the effects of wall velocity slip on the hydraulic resistance and convective heat transfer of laminar flow in a microchannel network with symmetric fractal treelike branching layout. It is found that the slip can reduce the hydraulic resistance and enhance the Nusselt number of laminar flow in the network; furthermore, the slip can also affect the optimal structure of the fractal treelike microchannel network with minimum hydraulic resistance and maximum convective heat transfer. Under the size constraint of constant total channel surface area, the optimal diameter ratio of microchannels at two successive branching levels of the symmetric fractal treelike microchannel network with a minimized hydraulic resistance is only dependent on branching number [Formula: see text] in the manner of [Formula: see text] for no slip condition, but decreases with the increasing slip length, the increasing branching number and the increasing length ratio of microchannels at two successive branching levels for slip condition. The convective heat transfer of the treelike microchannel network is independent on the diameter ratio for no slip condition, but displays an increasing after decreasing trend with the increasing diameter ratio for slip condition. The symmetric treelike microchannel network with the worst convective heat transfer performance is the network with diameter ratio equaling one for slip condition.
A FRACTAL VARIATIONAL THEORY FOR ONE-DIMENSIONAL COMPRESSIBLE FLOW IN A MICROGRAVITY SPACE
Authors: HE JI-HUAN
Published: November 2019

The semi-inverse method is adopted to establish a family of fractal variational principles of the one-dimensional compressible flow under the microgravity condition, and Cauchy–Lagrange integral is successfully derived from the obtained variational formulation. A suitable application of the Lagrange multiplier method is also elucidated.
Effects of conditioned media from murine lung cancer cells and human tumor cells on cultured myotubes
Authors: Guigni Blas A. , van der Velden Jos , Kinsey C. Matthew , Carson James A. , Toth Michael J.
Published: November 2019

Factors secreted from tumors/tumor cells are hypothesized to cause skeletal muscle wasting in cancer patients. We examined whether cancer cells secrete factors to promote atrophy by evaluating the effects of conditioned media (CM) from murine lung cancer cells and primary cultures of human lung tumor cells on cultured myotubes. We evaluated murine Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) and KRASG12D cells, and primary cell lines derived from tumor biopsies from patients with lung cancer (hTCM; n = 6). In all experiments, serum content was matched across treatment groups. We hypothesized that CM from murine and human tumor cells would reduce myotube myosin content, decrease mitochondrial content, and increase mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Treatment of myotubes differentiated for 7 days with CM from LLC and KRASG12D cells did not alter any of these variables. Effects of murine tumor cell CM were observed when myotubes differentiated for 4 days were treated with tumor cell CM and compared with undiluted differentiation media. However, these effects were not apparent if tumor cell CM treatments were compared with control cell CM or dilution controls. Finally, CM from human lung tumor primary cell lines did not modify myosin content or mitochondrial content or ROS production compared with either undiluted differentiated media, control cell CM, or dilution controls. Our results do not support the hypothesis that factors released from cultured lung cancer/tumor cells promote myotube wasting or mitochondrial abnormalities, but we cannot dismiss the possibility that these cells could secrete such factors in vivo within the native tumor microenvironment.
Experimental Study and Life Prediction of Bolt Loosening Life under Variable Amplitude Vibration
Authors: Yang Guangwu , Che Chengjian , Xiao Shoune , Yang Bing , Zhu Tao , Jiang Shilin
Published: November 2019

The transverse vibration test of bolts has been designed with adoption of the fatigue tester to study the features of the loosening life of bolts. Firstly, the transverse vibration frequency has been changed, the effects of the amplitudes of displacement, velocity, and acceleration on the loosening life of bolts have been compared, and it has been confirmed that the transverse displacement amplitude is the main factor that affects bolt loosening in low‐frequency vibration. Secondly, the loosening degree of the bolts preloaded standard under five displacement amplitude grades has been monitored and the bolt loosening situation has been expressed through the residual preload‐vibration times curve. The data of each stage of residual preload under each displacement amplitude were summarized, and the displacement‐life (D-N) curve of bolt loosening under different loosening situations (percentage of residual preload) which is referred to the material fatigue life S-N curve was drawn. Finally, the accumulation mechanism of bolt loosening has been studied and the linear accumulation model of bolt loosening has been set up through designing variable amplitude vibration tests at high‐low and low‐high displacement stages. Results show that, through the bolt loosening D-N curve, it can be found out that the bolt loosening life curve and the material fatigue life curve are with features of double line and high‐ and low‐cycle boundary under the logarithmic coordinate. Linear accumulation of bolt loosening is with similar principle of linear damage accumulation of material fatigue. Therefore, the bolt loosening life can be predicted through bolt displacement‐loosening life (D-N) curve attained from the experiment and the established linear accumulation model of bolt loosening.
A Comprehensive Survey of Genomic Alterations in Gastric Cancer Reveals Recurrent Neoantigens as Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Chen Chao , Zhou Qiming , Wu Riping , Li Bo , Chen Qiang , Zhang Xiuqing , Shi Chunmei
Published: November 2019

Immunotherapy directed against cancer-specific neoantigens derived from non-silent mutants is a promising individualized strategy for cancer treatment. Neoantigens shared across patients could be used as a public resource for developing T cell-based therapy. To identify potential public neoantigens for therapy in gastric cancer (GC), 74 GC patients were enrolled in this study. Combined with the TCGA cohort and other published studies, whole exome sequencing data from 942 GC patients were used to detect somatic mutations and predict neoantigens shared by GC patients. The mutations pattern between our study and the TCGA cohort is comparable, and C > T is the most common substitution. The number of neoantigens was significantly higher in older patients (age ≥60) compared to younger patients (age <60), both in this study and the TCGA cohort. Recurrent neoantigens were found in eight genes (TP53, PIK3CA, PGM5, ERBB3, C6, TRIM49C, OR4C16, and KRAS) in this study. The neoantigen-associated mutations PIK3CA (p.H1047R) and TP53 (p.R175H) are common across several cancer types, indicating their potential usage. Overall, our study illustrates a comprehensive genomic landscape of GC and provides the recurrent neoantigens to facilitate further immunotherapy.
Identification of mRNAs Related to Tibial Cartilage Development of Yorkshire Piglets
Authors: Feng Shuaifei , Du Xiaoyong , Wang Chao , Ye Dengdeng , Ma Guanjun , Zhao Shuhong , Wang Haiyan , Liu Xiangdong
Published: November 2019

Cartilage dysplasia is one of the important reasons for the weakness of pig limbs and hooves. Porcine rickets with weak limbs and hooves bring huge economic losses to the pig industry. However, research on the development of pig cartilage is lacking. This study investigated the key genes and molecular mechanisms involved in cartilage development via an RNA-seq technique. Samples of proximal tibia cartilage were collected from three normal piglets with 1 day, 14 days, and 28 days of age, respectively, and then these samples were divided into two comparison groups (1-day vs. 14-day group, 14-day vs. 28-day group). Through the transcriptome analysis, 108 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), such as FORL2, were obtained from 1-day vs. 14-day comparison group, and 3602 DEGs were obtained from 14-day vs. 28-day comparison group, including SOX9, BMP6, and MMP13. The gene ontology (GO) functional and KEGG pathway enrichment revealed that many functions of DEGs were related to bone development. The pathways of DEGs from Day 1 vs. Day 14 were mainly enriched in mineral absorption, but the DEGs of Day 14 vs. Day 28 were enriched in osteoclast differentiation. Then, the expression patterns of six candidate genes were verified via qPCR. In conclusion, candidate genes affecting cartilage development in Yorkshire pigs were obtained by transcriptome analysis, and the clues showed that Day 14 to Day 28 is a more active and extensive period in cartilage developments, which played a key role in revealing the molecular mechanism of pig cartilage development basis, also compensating for vacancies in cartilage research.
Zonulin Family Peptide Levels in Ascites and Serum in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Pietrukaniec Marta , Migacz Maciej , Żak-Gołąb Agnieszka , Olszanecka-Glinianowicz Magdalena , Chudek Jerzy , Duława Jan , Holecki Michał
Published: November 2019

Introduction.Zonulin is a protein that reversibly modulates the permeability of tight junction of the small intestine wall. As the serum concentration of “zonulin family peptides” (ZFPs) is considered to be a sensitive and useful marker of intestinal wall permeability, its serum level may affect the volume of ascites fluid and change in gut microbiota. The aim of the study was to assess the association between concentrations of ZFPs in serum and ascites in relation to the severity of liver cirrhosis.Methods. The preliminary study included 24 adult patients diagnosed with alcoholic or viral liver cirrhosis. 18 healthy adult subjects were enrolled as the control group. In patients and controls, there were measured serum and ascites (only in patients) ZFPs, serum bilirubin, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, total protein, and C-reactive protein (CRP).Results. Cirrhotic patients had lower serum hemoglobin (11.6 vs. 14.3 mg/dL;p<0.001), platelet count (178 vs.305×103/mm3;p<0.01), total protein and albumin (58.6 vs. 74.3 g/dL;p<0.001, 26.6 vs. 42.3 g/dL;p<0.001, respectively), and serum ZFPs (30.5 vs. 62.0 ng/mL;p<0.001) in comparison to controls. In patients with cirrhosis serum bilirubin, C-reactive protein level and INR were higher than in controls (3.07 vs. 0.96 mg/dL; 36.9 vs. 5 mg/L; 1.53 vs. 0.95;p<0.001, respectively). Patients with low ZFP levels were characterized with lower ascites ZFP levels (0.25 vs. 16.4 ng/mL;p<0.001) and ascites/serum index (0.011 vs. 0.462;p<0.001). There were negative correlations between ascites ZFPs and platelet count (R=−0.497;p<0.01) and positive correlation with INR (R=0.640;p<0.001). ZFP index positively correlated with platelet count (R=0.726;p<0.001) and negatively with INR (R=−0.392;p=0.06).Conclusions. Decrease serum ZFP levels seem to reflect their decreased liver synthesis but not increased gut permeability in patients with liver cirrhosis. The physiologically low level of ZFPs in transudate is increased in exudate.
Acute Kidney Injury Secondary to Necrotizing Sarcoid Granulomatosis
Authors: Mamidi Varun , Shekar Manikantan , Chakola Jaiju James , Makkena Vamsi Krishna , Matcha Jayakumar
Published: November 2019

Background. Sarcoidosis is a chronic disease characterized by noncaseating lesions involving any organ and tissue in the body. Hypercalcemia and acute kidney injury is a common renal presentation of sarcoidosis. Necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis (NSG) is a granulomatous disease entity which presents with nodular masses of sarcoid like granuloma which primarily effects the lungs. It is a rare necrotizing variant of sarcoidosis. Extra pulmonary presentation of NSG is very rare. Case presentation. We present a 36-year-old female with hypercalcemia and acute kidney injury refractory to treatment. Whole body Flourine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) showed increased metabolic uptake with ill-defined lesions in the liver, spleen, and pelvic lymph nodes. Biopsy of the ill-defined lesions in the liver showed necrotizing granulomatous lesions without angiitis. All the markers of tuberculosis were negative and angiotensin converting enzyme levels were elevated. Patient improved with 1 mg/kg/day oral steroid therapy and is on regular follow-up with minimal dose of steroids. Conclusion. Necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis (NSG) is a rare systemic granulomatous disease. Due to its rarity and diagnostic difficulty, treatment is challenging for clinicians, pathologists and radiologists. Treatment of choice for symptomatic patients is steroid therapy. Prognosis is good with complete recovery.
3D Antenna Structures Using Uniform Triangular Arrays for Efficient Full-Directional Multiuser Transmission
Authors: Yang Jiyeong , Ryoo Wonjae , Sung Wonjin , Kim Jeong-Ho , Park Jonghyun
Published: November 2019

In order to increase the system capacity of the 5G mobile communication system, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transmission techniques using a large-scale array over the millimeter-wave band have attracted a great amount of attention. To cope with various types of receivers expected in 5G communications such as user equipment (UE) in small cells, indoor Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices at diverse locations, and drones performing aerial navigation, newer types of antenna arrays require all-directional transmission capability. Existing antenna structures with typical panel arrays, however, have restrictions on their transmission angles in both horizontal and vertical directions. In this paper, we propose to employ three-dimensional (3D) array structures composed of multiple triangular panels for efficient massive MIMO transmission of the next-generation wireless systems. We analyze beamforming characteristics of a uniform triangular array (UTA) suitable for such 3D array configurations and present a basic codebook applicable to UTAs. Using antenna structures with multiple UTA panels, multiuser transmission performance is evaluated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposal.
Evaluation and Empirical Research on Medical Universities’ Performance in a Hierarchical Context Based on Individual Advantage Identification Perspective
Authors: Zhu Zhu , Jia Jian-Feng , Huang Shi-Tong , Jiao Yu-Xin , Liu Sen
Published: November 2019

Based on the literature review on medical education and university performance evaluations and from the perspective of individual advantage identification, an evaluation method of medical universities’ performance in a hierarchical context was proposed. This study designs a method system, including individual learning benchmarking from the individual perspective, group learning benchmarking from the democratic perspective, and benchmarking of single and overall indicators. From the perspective of the most favorable to medical universities, this study applies the designed research methods to the performance evaluation of medical universities and takes 15 medical universities in China as samples to conduct an empirical research. The following conclusions were found. First, the method helps form various development modes of medical universities in the individual advantage characteristic context. Second, the method not only shows objectivity but also provides a basis for how medical universities find individual and integral benchmarking. Finally, the method demonstrates the democracy feature, which provides a basis for how relevant departments allocate resources and formulate policies.
Quantifying Fractal Dimension in Integrated Experimental Data of Tight Sandstones
Authors: Ren Dazhong , Li Rongxi , Liu Dengke , Li Yuhong , Liu Na , Yang Fu
Published: November 2019

Determining the microscopic pore structures of tight sandstones is becoming one of the most challenging efforts, and the strong heterogeneity makes the accurate assessment still a problem. In this research, we report a new criterion for pore structure typing based on the fractal geometry theory. The fractal dimension values were first accurately calculated through intrusion and nonintrusion methods. The results show that the pores in tight sandstones have multifractal distributions and different types of pore structure were divided based on various tests. The relationships between petrophysical properties and a series of multifractal parameters have been analyzed in detail. The fractal dimension values of type 1 sandstones derived from the throat curves in rate-controlled mercury intrusion methods can well characterize the porosity of the research area, while the others did not respond well. Finally, a multifractal criterion was proposed to analyze the petrological and pore structures by combined observations and experiments. The new criterion exhibits perfect performance in the prediction of the storage capacity. The multifractal model proposed in this research helps to assess the pore structures of tight sandstones and helps to characterize the reservoir quality in hydrocarbon exploration and development.
Tolerable Maximum Positive End Expiratory Pressure in Mechanically Ventilated Patients and Its Impact on Blood Flow across Cardiac Valves: Index Case Report of a Physiology Study
Authors: Nadeem Rashid , Ahmed Kamaleldin , Salama Lamiaa , Elhoufi Ashraf M.
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) exerts variable effects on preload, pulmonary vascular flow, and afterload. Lung recruitment with gradual increase in PEEP improves oxygenation, but it may have variable cardiovascular effects. Method: A patient with respiratory failure from tetanus was recruited after informed consent. The sedated and paralyzed patient was subjected to sequential increase in PEEP with measurement of hemodynamics, ventilator parameters, and echocardiographic parameters (Doppler flow across tricuspid, pulmonic, and mitral valves at end inspiration and end expiration, in addition to blood volume flowing across RVOT and mitral valve). Results: We observed an initial rise in pulmonic and mitral blood flows, followed by a decline back to baseline around PEEP of 20, with an eventual decline associated with a drop in mean MAP <60 torr above PEEP of 29. Similar effects were also observed on blood volume flowing across RVOT and mitral valve. PEEP of 5 was associated with best blood flow parameters. Conclusion: Although systemic pressure was maintained at PEEP of 29, pulmonary blood flow started to be compromised at PEEP of 20. Best pulmonary perfusion parameters were achieved at PEEP of 5.
Frequent Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Disorders Along the Heart-Brain Axis
Authors: Hooghiemstra Astrid M. , Leeuwis Anna E. , Bertens Anne Suzannne , Biessels Geert Jan , Bots Michiel L. , Brunner-La Rocca Hans-Peter , Greving Jacoba P. , Kappelle L. Jaap , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van Rossum Albert C. ,   Heart-Brain Connection Consortium, van der Flier Wiesje M.
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose—

Patients with cardiovascular disease are at increased risk for cognitive decline. We studied the occurrence and profile of cognitive impairment in 3 patient groups as exemplar conditions of hemodynamic disturbances at different levels of the heart-brain axis, including patients with heart failure (HF), carotid occlusive disease (COD), and patients with cognitive complaints and vascular brain injury on magnetic resonance imaging (possible vascular cognitive impairment [VCI]).

Methods—

In 555 participants (160 HF, 107 COD, 160 possible VCI, 128 reference participants; 68±9 years; 36% F; Mini-Mental State Examination 28±2), we assessed cognitive functioning with a comprehensive test battery. Test scores were transformed into
z
-scores. Compound
z
-scores were constructed for: memory, language, attention/psychomotor speed, executive functioning, and global cognitive functioning. We rated cognitive domains as impaired when
z
-score≤−1.5. Based on the number of impaired domains, patients were classified as cognitively normal, minor, or major cognitive impairment. We used general linear models and χ
2
tests to compare cognitive functioning between patient groups and the reference group.

Results—

Age, sex, and education adjusted global cognitive functioning z-score was lower in patients with COD (β [SE]=−0.46 [0.10],
P
<0.001) and possible VCI (β [SE]=−0.80 [0.09],
P
<0.001) compared with reference participants. On all domains,
z
-scores were lower in patients with COD and possible VCI compared with reference participants. Patients with HF had lower z-scores on attention/speed and language compared with reference participants. Cognitive impairment was observed in 18% of HF, 36% of COD, and 45% possible VCI. There was no difference in profile of impaired cognitive domains between patient groups. Memory and attention-psychomotor speed were most commonly affected, followed by executive functioning and language.

Conclusions—

A substantial part of patients with HF and COD had cognitive impairment, which warrants vigilance for the occurrence of cognitive impairment. These results underline the importance of an integrative approach in medicine in patients presenting with disorders in the heart-brain axis.
Aloe ×gemmelliae (Asphodelaceae subfam. Alooideae), a new natural hybrid between A. broomii and A. grandidentata from the southwestern Free State province, South Africa

Authors: SMITH GIDEON F. , FIGUEIREDO ESTRELA
Published: November 2019

Although most species of Aloe Linnaeus (1753: 319) flower in winter, the comparatively few taxa of this genus that occur naturally above South Africa’s climatically severe Great Escarpment tend to flower during spring when temperatures are on the increase. Two such species are A. broomii Schönland (1907: 137) and A. grandidentata Salm-Dyck (1822: 3 [species no. 2]).
Biofabrication of TiO2 Nanoparticles and Their Effect on the Mechanical and Rheological Properties and UV-Absorption of the Rapid Prototyping Epoxy-Based Composites for Dental Photosensitive Resins
Authors: Liu Fang , Qian Cheng , Xu Li , Xie Xiaofei , Wang Tingting , Li Jiancheng , Tian Ruixue , Gao Yilin , Zhang Rongxiu , Huang Yongsong , Wang Deshun , Zhang Kai
Published: November 2019

In this investigation we have showed the synthesis of TiO2-NPs using Rosa hybrida leaf extract and studied using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The as prepared photosensitive TiO2-NPs based nanocomposite have been used, to alter the epoxy-based
light-sensitive resin, by carrying the goal of achieving express prototyping dental resources, where TiO2-NPs acted as reinforcing fillers. We enhanced the hardness of the nanocomposite material using TiO2-NPs filler, which plays as a significant parameter in the technique
of dental impression. Further, the prepared composites are also studied about the light absorption, mechanical properties and viscosity. It is found the enhanced mechanical properties of the nanocomposites indicating the potential of TiO2-NPs for stereolithography and digital light
processing that can be useful for preparation of the high dimensional accuracy dental model.
Supercapacitive Performance of Surfactants Wrapped KIT-6/MCM-48 Templates Based Mesoporous Co3O4
Authors: Prakash N. , Narendhar C. , Muthusankar E. , Ragupathy D.
Published: November 2019

In this paper, KIT: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology No. 6 (KIT-6) and MCM: Mobil Composition of Matter No. 48 (MCM-48) mesoporous silica templates were prepared by wrapping Pluronic (P123) and Cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB). Mesoporous Co3O4
geometry tailored KIT-6 and MCM-48 with different porosity were synthesized via reflux technique. Crystal geometry, morphology, molecular vibrations and pore structure were analyzed by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy
and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method based N2 adsorption–desorption for the modified materials. As expected, MCM-48 micropore-dominated electrode exhibited higher specific capacitance (442.5 F/g) which is much superior to that of KIT-6 (88.9 F/g). Outstanding electrochemical
execution is due to the mesoporous tailored architecture (average pore diameter of 6.1 nm) and synergistic contribution of MCM-48 architectured with a Co3O4 core. This promising electrode material opens up a new platform for high-performance supercapacitors.
The Micro-Miniature Capacitance Sensor Based on Light-Trigger Technology and Its Hardware Design in the Electrical Capacitance Tomography System
Authors: Chen Feng , Chen Deyun , Wang Lili
Published: November 2019

Electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) technology can monitor the multi-phase flow in closed pipes or vessels. The monitoring technology has the advantages of anti-intrusion, low manufacturing cost, high-temperature resistance, and simple structure. At present, ECT systems use small-scale
sensors for signal capture, but such sensors have problems such as low sensitivity and poor anti-interference, which have attracted the attention of researchers. In this study, a light-trigger sensor was proposed, which was equipped with a special light window to receive optical signals. At
the same time, in terms of the problem of electromagnetic shielding and optical window protection, a light window structure that transmitted optical signals and shields electromagnetic waves was designed. Based on the light-trigger sensor, the other modules of the ECT system were designed,
considering that the sensor would be interfered by the measurement of stray capacitance, the intra-isoelectric driver cable shielding technology, the double T-type simulation switch matrix, and the digital-mode demodulation technology was introduced. Consequently, the performance of the sensor
was tested. During the experiment, the sucrose flow pattern was used as the test object. The results showed that compared with the traditional sensors, the image distortion of the sensor based on the ECT system was lower; while in the performance test of the ECT system, the introduction of
the double T-type simulation switch matrix, the digital-analogy demodulation technology, and the bipolar plate excitation mode could further optimize the signal-to-noise ratio index of the image; in the sensitivity test of the ECT system, the introduction of bipolar plate excitation mode could
improve the output sensitivity of the capacitance.
Fabrication of a Metal Roller Mold with Nanoimprinted Pattern Using Thermal Nanoimprint Lithography
Authors: Kwon Soongeun , Kim Young-Jin , Lim Hyungjun , Kim Jaegu , Choi Kee-Bong , Lee JaeJong , Kim Geehong
Published: November 2019

In this work, fabrication of a metal roller mold with nanoimprinted pattern was demonstrated. To get metal nanopattern on a metal roller mold, thermal nanoimprint lithography (TNIL) and subsequent electroforming process were conducted. A poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanopattern
was fabricated by TNIL process using a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) soft stamp on a bare PMMA film. An optimal experimental condition of TNIL process was investigated for large area, uniform PMMA nanopatterning. As a result, large area PMMA line patterns with 200 nm linewidth were fabricated
by large-area TNIL process. Electroforming process on the PMMA nanopatterned film resulted in nickel (Ni) nanopattern with a linewidth of 200 nm from the PMMA line pattern. A large area (360 mm by 730 mm in width and length) Ni stamp for a roller mold was fabricated by laser cutting and tiling
process of the multiple electroformed Ni stamps. We successfully fabricated a Ni roller mold with feature size of 200 nm in linewidth by attaching the large area Ni stamp to the surface of a roller body.
A Study on the Influence of Milling Parameters on the Properties of TC18 Titanium Alloy
Authors: Zhang Chang-Ming , Mu An-Le , Wang Yong-Xin , Shen Qi , Zhang Hui
Published: November 2019

Based on the orthogonal experimental design, the effect mechanism of different processing parameters on the surface microhardness and metal microstructure of TC18 titanium is studied. Meanwhile, the variation law of milling force and surface roughness of TC18 titanium alloy during high-speed
milling is obtained. The results show that the milling depth has the greatest influence on the milling force under down-milling. Meanwhile, the milling depth and spindle speed have the greatest influence on the milling force in up-milling, which with the increase of milling depth and with
the increase of spindle speed and downward trend. The greatest influence of surface roughness is the milling depth, and the surface roughness decreases with the increasing of milling depth. After milling complete, the surface hardness of TC18 titanium alloy work piece decreases. With the surface
depth increases to 0.01 mm, the hardness is slightly higher than the matrix hardness. The microstructure of TC18 matrix is mainly β phase by observing the metallographic structure. The equiaxed α phase grows after milling.
Mixing-Driven Mean Flows and Submesoscale Eddies over Mid-Ocean Ridge Flanks and Fracture Zone Canyons
Authors: Ruan Xiaozhou , Callies Jörn
Published: November 2019

To close the abyssal overturning circulation, dense bottom water has to become lighter by mixing with lighter water above. This diapycnal mixing is strongly enhanced over rough topography in abyssal mixing layers, which span the bottom few hundred meters of the water column. In particular, mixing rates are enhanced over mid-ocean ridge systems, which extend for thousands of kilometers in the global ocean and are thought to be key contributors to the required abyssal water mass transformation. To examine how stratification and thus diabatic transformation is maintained in such abyssal mixing layers, this study explores the circulation driven by bottom-intensified mixing over mid-ocean ridge flanks and within ridge-flank canyons. Idealized numerical experiments show that stratification over the ridge flanks is maintained by submesoscale baroclinic eddies and that stratification within ridge-flank canyons is maintained by mixing-driven mean flows. These restratification processes affect how strong a diabatic buoyancy flux into the abyss can be maintained, and they are essential for maintaining the dipole in water mass transformation that has emerged as the hallmark of a diabatic circulation driven by bottom-intensified mixing.
New Ways or Old Tricks? The World Bank’s Gender Strategy and Its Implications for Health
Authors: Power Luke
Published: November 2019

This paper provides a critical examination of the World Bank’s document, “World Bank Group Gender Strategy: Gender Equality, Poverty Reduction, and Inclusive Growth.” While the World Bank suggests that this paper is a distinction from past practices, others maintain that it is a continuation of previous neoliberal strategies. Thus, the aim of this analysis is to elucidate the implications of the proposed strategies on both gender equality and health equity. The analytical framework derives from both feminist political economy and the political economy of health literature. Within the document there is a direct emphasis on privatization and deregulation. Moreover, there is a clear re-articulation of both the state and female-citizenship: the former is presented as an “enabling agent,” and the latter depoliticized. Accordingly, it is argued that the promotion of macroeconomic strategies leads to the exaggeration of gender inequalities due to the perpetuation and crystallization of social inequalities. This consequently leads to the entrenchment of health inequities. These health inequities are compounded by the promotion of a “reduced state” that focuses on constructing a “workfare” state and a citizen who is resigned to community politics. Thus, instead of promoting gender equality, this report reflects a tendency toward its perpetuation.
Reappraisal of the Developmental Welfare State Theory on the Underdevelopment of State Welfare in East Asian Growth Economies: The Case of South Korea
Authors: Kim Soon-yang
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this article is to re-examine the perspective on the relationship between East Asia’s growth economy and its underdevelopment of state welfare, by analyzing the Korean case between the 1960s and the 1980s, when active governmental intervention in the economy led to rapid economic growth. This article aims to answer the questions ‘Was state welfare genuinely underdeveloped under the growth economy of East Asia?’ and ‘If so, which factors hindered its development?’ To this end, this article first refutes the perspective regarding the underdevelopment of state welfare in East Asian growth economies, through an empirical analysis of the following: overlooking diverse indices in measuring the level of state welfare, a comparison without considering different budget systems, negligence of output aspects, giving undue value to quantitative methods and paying little attention to welfare beneficiary aspect. The article traces the reasons why the growth economy experienced the underdevelopment of state welfare using comprehensive frameworks: large-scale resource distribution to defense and education, low level of electoral competition, underdevelopment of socialist political parties, political authoritarianism and weak opposition, lack of social citizenship and preservation of family values, underdevelopment of trade unionism, and inactivation of civil society.